Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon.
Author Notes: Chapter 27! Enjoy!
As you all just noticed, I have indeed changed my username! I still decided to let the alert go by my old username of ARCEUS-master, but from now on I have decided I will be using a new username. It's been a long ride all these years, and I sure have a lot of fond memories under my old username, but I felt it was a username that I never thoroughly thought out when I typed it in, and I have decided to change to a username that more accurately reflected who I am today. Amusingly, the decision to include "Arcy" in the new username is because it is the nickname you all, my fans and readers, gave me a long time ago. I'm very fond of it, it's what you all call me, and it's why I've decided to formally switch to it. All in all, that's all I have to say, happy Chapter reading!
Chapter 27 — Tales And Surprises
The dark spirit stared at the bowing Gengar expectantly. "Ozul," he voiced in curt acknowledgment. "I haven't heard from you in a long time. It's good to see you're well."
"My apologies, King Azrael," Ozul replied, raising his head to regard the decaying throne and the spirit floating above it. "I haven't had anything of note to report. Until now, that is."
"I'm not surprised by that. Things have been very lively as of late," the spirit, known as Azrael, responded drily.
Ozul gave the spirit a curious glance. "So, you're aware of recent events?" he questioned.
"I am," Azrael murmured. After a long silence, he somberly added, "I'm aware that Latios has been revived. He even visited these very ruins not long ago. He's also paid visits to other notable locations where I still hold power."
Ozul gave him an astonished look. "Latios' revival was one of the things I intended to report." The Gengar narrowed his eyes. "Have you been looking around, my king?"
"A little bit, but nothing too much," Azrael admitted. "I'm a curious entity. But don't worry, I've been careful so as not to be found out. I did have a rather close call at Alto Mare, but that's it."
"You shouldn't leave the ruins of Pokélantis at all," Ozul chided while shaking his head and wagging a finger. "You'll get caught without the protection granted by your staff."
"I'm careful when I leave," Azrael responded dismissively. "Anyway. What do you have to report, Ozul?" he asked in an eager tone.
"Well, you're already aware that the curse that used to bind Latios and his children to Alto Mare has been broken. All of them survived, and he's been successfully revived," Ozul reported. "The children are roaming the Hoenn region, currently."
"I know. I saw the children, unprotected, a short while ago. I missed my chance to do anything, sadly. By the time I returned, Skailyn had already placed a ward around them," Azrael said unhappily.
"Why didn't you try something when they were unprotected?" Ozul asked, tilting his head in puzzlement.
"It seemed way too easy, for them to be out in the open… unprotected," Azrael confessed. "I wasn't sure if a dangerous god was nearby or not, just waiting for the chance to ambush me." The dark spirit paused, his aura flickering in disapproval. "Where the gods and the powers that be are concerned, if it seems too easy then it usually is. I had to get information on the current situation before acting. You said so yourself, I have to be careful when not in these ruins."
"Fair point," Ozul conceded. "Well, Sky Pillar has been extremely lively. The parents will be meeting their children soon. I decided to go and take a look at what was happening under Skailyn's ward in case something interesting could be going on. Coincidentally, the children are going to head to Sky Pillar soon, for unrelated reasons."
Azrael stared at the Gengar for a lengthy moment, slowly processing what he had said. "Well, a divine family reunion is in the works. How lovely."
"They didn't give a specific time window for their departure, but they plan to leave their current location sometime in the next few days and head straight for Sky Pillar," Ozul added. He scoffed in annoyance. "The children were speaking telepathically, so I couldn't hear them specifically. I'm piecing most of this together based on their friends' responses to them."
"I figured this would happen eventually," Azrael commented. "I'm not entirely surprised."
Ozul nodded. He chuckled and grinned. "And there's something else that I think may interest you, my king."
"What is it?" Azrael asked, his interest piqued.
"The children got into a battle against some ruffians during their stay in a modern human settlement. They nearly died but won the battle in the end, heavily damaging their power locks as a consequence," Ozul reported. "Their power is still mostly sealed, but who can say for how much longer?"
"That is interesting," Azrael murmured. The spirit remained silent and deep in thought.
Ozul stared at him patiently, waiting for his king to process the information. "I don't have much else to report beyond that."
"That's good enough, because this will be a great opportunity," Azrael affirmed gleefully, his aura spiking in anticipation. "It's a long shot, very risky, but worth taking."
"What do you want from them, my king?" Ozul queried curiously. "They're just children. I'm not sure what they're useful for."
"Originally, going after them was just revenge against their mother," Azrael replied disdainfully. "I do admit that what I did at Alto Mare may have been going too far and I've made this far too personal with her, but I was angry and it's in the past now. I'm above such petty fights now, or so I hope. What I'm after right now is something far more pragmatic. I want a sample of their power. That's it. A power sample taken directly out of a real and living god."
Ozul nodded slowly. "I see. There's no way you're getting that from an actual god. But restrained children? It could be possible."
"Correct. The fact their locks are weakened means I should be able to bypass them and access their power directly. Once the twins reach Sky Pillar, have their locks removed, and become gods? They will be out of my reach permanently," Azrael explained. He paused for a moment. "Come."
The spirit teleported away, prompting the Gengar to levitate down and phase through the floor to follow after him.
The spirit reappeared in a chamber much deeper within the ruins. Decaying amber-colored walls emblazoned with countless hieroglyphics adorned the room, some of which occasionally glowed in faint shades of purple energy. The runes originated from a large stone shrine at the chamber's center, which held an elegant golden staff. The staff had three rings near its tip, which flared open to hold a purple-colored crystalline orb that radiated immense power.
Ozul phased through the roof and entered. "But, my king, if you're planning on retrieving a sample from their powers, that means…" the Gengar began, his eyes widening in alarm.
"I have to go through Skailyn's ward, yes," Azrael finished. His spectral voice turned dead serious. "And confront her."
"That's borderline suicidal. Skailyn is one of several deities you cannot, under any circumstances, be anywhere near," Ozul warned sternly.
"I know!" Azrael snapped. "It's very risky. Before I consider doing it, I need to check something." The spirit looked at the golden staff, which responded to him by emitting a single pulse of purple energy that crept across the room, causing a faint and eerie tremor. The orb held atop the staff emitted a vibrant pulse of light that grew until it encompassed a large portion of the room, rendering the image of a blue sphere. Bright green lines in precise patterns began to trace themselves across the holographic sphere in the distinct shape of the world's continents. The hologram remained still for several minutes, during which the orb on the staff kept emitting steady pulses of energy. Finally, dozens of dots of varying colors flashed on numerous parts of the holographic sphere.
"There we go," Azrael commented, immediately taking in the information presented to him.
Ozul nodded. "Now that we can see the location of every deity on the planet, it'll be easy to determine if the risk is worth it." The Gengar's eyes drifted to a conglomerate of dots close to the coastline of the Kanto region. "That's where Sky Pillar is right now."
"Yes, but other than that it's not currently close to Hoenn, it doesn't concern me." Azrael's gaze shifted to the outline of the Hoenn region. "Let's see."
"Well, that red dot must be Groudon," Ozul presumed, pointing to a ruby-red dot dead center in the Hoenn region. "He's the only Legendary in mainland Hoenn at the moment."
"It is, but he wouldn't get to us in time." Azrael focused on three distinct dots on an island south of the Hoenn region. "Groudon doesn't worry me, it's these three that do. They're close to the twins and haven't moved in a while. Clearly, they're standing guard."
Ozul frowned, looking at the three dots on the aforementioned island. "One silver, one azure, and one dark green."
"The silver and azure ones, they're Lugia's children. One of them is harmless, but the other could be a threat. The dark green one, though…" Azrael paused. "It's Skailyn. She's right there, close by," he hissed venomously. "With the ward and her speed, she can be at Hoenn's coast in less than a minute."
Ozul looked at the specter, concern evident in his eyes. "This seems risky. Are you certain this is the best course of action?" he asked.
"I am uncertain," Azrael admitted. "The defeat the Legendaries handed me long ago put me in a bad spot. I've been a thorn in their side for millennia, yes, but nothing more. I need to pick up my plans, or else I will be forced to hide for eternity. It's now or never. I need that power sample."
"If you are to do that, you will have to find a way to keep those two busy, my king," Ozul pointed out. "After what happened to Pokélantis, how do you plan to engage them?"
"I retrieved the Jade Orb earlier, just in case Skailyn was onto me. That should take care of her one way or another," Azrael commented. "As for the Lugia, what was her name again?"
"Phaedra," Ozul informed. "Be careful. While Skailyn is undoubtedly the bigger threat here, don't underestimate Phaedra. She's a deadly fighter as well."
"Very well," Azrael murmured. "I have an answer for Skailyn already." As if on cue, an emerald-green orb appeared in a burst of purple magic beside the pair. "It's already tried and tested on Rayquaza. I don't know what effect it'll have on Skailyn, as it's not designed for her, but it should do something. That leaves Phaedra." The spirit focused on one of the chamber's walls and glowered. Immediately, hundreds of the wall's runes began to glow with faint purple energy. However, nearly half of them cracked and burst open in a violent series of flashes that sent chunks of rock and glass flying across the room.
Ozul watched the scene with a solemn expression. "The losses are severe."
Azrael looked at the decaying pieces of rock and dust on the floor unhappily. "Yes, the Legendaries have whittled down at the remnants of my army for millennia. Latios' revival and his recent activity only sped up the process. I don't have much left anymore. This is why I want to move out, despite the risks. I have to do something, or else I will risk being left behind as a footnote in the annals of history. I can't hide forever."
Ozul nodded. "I understand, my king."
"Take these six," Azrael instructed. Six of the still-intact runes kept glowing, while the rest dimmed back to normal and faded into obscurity. Six crystal orbs materialized from the runes and promptly levitated toward the Gengar, followed by the Jade Orb. "Don't release them yet, though. We'll wait for the perfect moment."
"We wait?" Ozul questioned with a puzzled look. "Why not attack now?"
"You said the twins got into a fight in the middle of a modern human settlement, correct?" Azrael asked.
"I did," Ozul replied with a short nod.
"That means there could be interference and delays. There are many places to hide and many potential allies. That could waste us precious seconds," Azrael explained. "If we are to outmaneuver Skailyn, every instant counts."
"There's the chance it benefits us. Those same delays could obstruct Skailyn and Phaedra as well," Ozul pointed out.
"No. If it means catching me and protecting the twins, Skailyn would wipe that settlement off the face of the map in a heartbeat and leave me with no place to hide," Azrael retorted. "Legendaries can be merciless once you've forced their hand and made them interfere. Trust me, I know from experience."
Ozul nodded. "Good point."
"The twins are heading to Sky Pillar, which means they will leave that settlement eventually." Azrael looked back toward the holographic globe. "I will place a spell nearby that will draw them to it, something that can mimic the faint signal Sky Pillar gives off, and I will attack there." Azrael focused his attention on Ozul. "The moment the twins leave that settlement, awaken the six and send them there. I will handle the rest."
"Understood, my king," Ozul responded with a respectful bow.
"Also, give the Gengar your Mega Stone. He will need it. Shadow Tag will be crucial to trap Skailyn. I'll be sure to replace it," Azrael ordered. With nothing else to say, the spirit faded away. The holographic world and the staff at the center of the room slowly dimmed down into a faint afterglow of purple light, leaving the chamber shrouded in near-total darkness.
"It will be done, my king," Ozul whispered while raising his head.
Pidgeot's elegant wings spread wide and proud as she soared above most of Rustboro City's skyscrapers. Only the imposing towers of Devon Corporation stood higher than her current altitude. "They don't look anywhere near as bad as I imagined, especially after what you guys told me happened," she commented as the damaged buildings became larger and larger from her fast approach.
"Well, that's because Latias blocked the huge explosion we mentioned," Ash pointed out while gently patting Pidgeot's back affectionately, being careful not to lose his balance while on her back. "After you fell unconscious, nothing else happened at the rooftops. Team Aqua retreated."
"Yeah," Pikachu agreed with a nod. "Then they used their ship to try and destroy the city, which Latios and Latias thankfully stopped."
"We did," Latios commented with a nervous chuckle, invisibly flying alongside Pidgeot. "I'm still coming to terms with that. As is Latias."
"I'm just glad you're all fine," Pidgeot said with a contented sigh. "What about the guy we rescued? Is he okay too?"
"He's okay," Ash answered. "I'm not sure if we'll get to see him today as he's probably really busy right now. Hopefully, Steven has some free time." Ash looked ahead, surveying the two Devon towers. The young trainer took note that the fires that had raged on the buildings' upper floors the day before had been put out by now, as no plumes of smoke were coming from them. The tower he had fought Matt on looked far more damaged than the other one, though. Ash frowned and looked down, checking the nearby streets. "Hey, Pidgeot, land near the front courtyard. Fly in slow and easy, let's try not to spook anyone."
"Gotcha," Pidgeot replied as she dipped down and descended toward the front of the building complex in a wide arc that allowed a comfortable ride for her passengers. Pidgeot looked down, her keen eyes scanning the area and taking note of the huge amount of activity going on. "It looks really busy down there."
"That looks like a police line," Ash noted, glancing down and squinting to try and get a better look. "Which is unsurprising after yesterday's events." He paused. "Uh, land outside of it, Pidgeot."
"I will," Pidgeot replied, angling her wings to pivot to the side and move over the street that ran in front of the skyscrapers. She aligned her body upright and spread her wings to gently land on the pavement. "There we go."
Ash dismounted from her and gave her a grateful pat on her neck. "Thanks, Pidgeot." He turned around and looked on with widened eyes at the scene before him.
The whole courtyard and perimeter fence of the Devon building complex were completely ravaged, evident aftermath of the colossal battle that had taken place the day prior. Yellow police barricades and a dozen police cruisers and trucks completely surrounded the entire block, and dozens upon dozens of police officers and Pokémon dotted the area along with many of Devon's employees.
One of the police officers and a well-trained Arcanine sidestepped part of the barricade and walked over to Ash. "Excuse me, youngster, you can't be here right now. This is an active crime scene," the officer said with authority. The Arcanine glanced warily at Pidgeot, though in a non-aggressive manner.
"Okay, I understand," Ash replied quickly. "But, before I leave, do you know if—" He stopped and glanced behind the police officer. "Huh."
A white quadrupedal Pokémon rapidly moved through the scene, deftly circumventing the multitudes of people gathered throughout the courtyard with swift strides. It easily jumped over the police barriers and cruisers with a single athletic leap, landing neatly near the police officer and Ash. The Pokémon stared at Ash with ruby-red eyes for a lengthy moment, silently assessing him. He glanced at the police officer and gave him an assertive nod along with a firm vocalization of his name.
The police officer looked at the Pokémon for a moment and then nodded. "Understood." He turned around and walked back to the barricades. The police Arcanine gave the Pokémon a respectful nod and then followed after his partner.
Ash blinked in surprise. He'd never seen a Pokémon carry himself with such authority and boss police officers around like that before. It was evident that the Pokémon, which Ash immediately recognized as an Absol, was a big deal. "Wow, that was impressive."
The Absol returned his attention to Ash and then slowly shifted his gaze to each of the young trainer's Pokémon.
"He's extremely powerful, too," Latios noted warily just as the Absol looked straight at him and locked eyes with him, despite the dragon's invisibility. Latios froze nervously, completely taken by surprise. Thankfully, the Absol calmly broke eye contact and returned his focus to Ash. "Yeah, he gives me the same vibes that Steven's Pokémon do," he added with a sigh of relief.
"He does?" Ash asked uncertainly.
"Yeah. He also knows I'm here, so let's be careful," Latios suggested.
"Hey," Ash greeted politely. His gaze drifted down to the Absol's neck, causing him to let out a gasp. A black chain was wrapped around the Absol's neck, which was partially hidden by his prominent mane. However, what caught Ash's attention was the silver and blue spherical stone held in the center link of the collar. "That's a Mega Stone," Ash realized with widened eyes. "So, I take it you're a pretty important Pokémon, then? I can talk to Pokémon, by the way. You can speak up."
The Absol curiously stared at Ash with a tilted head, as if gauging him. He gave Ash a slight nod. "You could say I am," he responded curtly. "May I ask what you're doing here?"
"Absol!" a voice called out from the distance, prompting the Absol to glance over his shoulder.
Ash looked up and noticed two men walking toward them at a brisk pace. One of them he recognized immediately. "Hey, Steven!" Ash called out, waving to him.
Both men circumvented the police lines and joined the Absol. "Hello, Ash, it's good to see you again," Steven greeted cordially.
Ash nodded in acknowledgment and then faced the other man. He paused and gave him an apologetic look. "Sorry, but… who are you?" he asked with a nervous laugh.
The other man froze for a moment. He dramatically ran a hand over the single tuft of red hair on his mostly-bald head. "That traumatic moment when I'm not recognized!" he lamented while hunching down. "How could you do this to me!?" He gave Ash a poorly-faked hurt look. The man's Absol smirked and walked behind his trainer. He sat down and dropped his head as if completely heartbroken, further compounding the feigned scene.
Ash sweat-dropped and looked away uncomfortably. "Uh, I'm very sorry about that."
Steven laughed briefly and shook his head in amusement. "Never change, my friend. Never change."
The man abruptly stood upright and adopted a serious expression. His Absol dropped the act immediately and stood firmly beside his trainer. The man smiled pleasantly and extended his arm forward. "Then allow me to introduce myself. My name is Sidney, I'm a member of the Hoenn Elite Four."
Ash's eyes widened briefly, then a grin formed on his face. "Oh! I didn't know you were one of the Elite Four. So, that means you're a very powerful trainer." He glanced at the Absol. "And I presume he's your Pokémon, then?"
"He is," Sidney confirmed proudly. "He's my strongest Pokémon, too. And, he's pretty handy for situations like this."
"Oh yeah, I can imagine why." Ash leaned forward to look at the Absol closely. "Absol are pretty awesome. I think I remember my Pokédex saying something about sensing the supernatural and catastrophes? By the way, I actually encountered one not too long ago." He sighed. "Sadly, he was with a rather nasty poacher."
Sidney and Absol both started and looked at each other uneasily. Sidney then looked at Steven, who shrugged in response. "Uh, yeah, exactly that," Sidney said slowly. He returned his attention to Ash, going over what he had said. "Interesting. So, you're the trainer mentioned in Jenny's report."
"Well, we helped beat the poacher, yeah," Ash confirmed with a nod. "Wait, if you have an Absol yourself, is that why you're here?" he wondered.
Sidney smiled. "Indeed. Absol are some of the rarest and most enigmatic Pokémon in the world." He fondly placed his hand on his Absol's mane, caressing it affectionately. "They're also very misunderstood. I've dedicated a big part of my career to activism and conservationism regarding Absol, spreading knowledge and awareness of the wonders of this fantastic species. The Absol you defeated earlier, tell me, do you remember anything odd with it?"
"Yeah, it behaved really strange," Ash recalled, tapping his chin with a finger. "But not something I can explain accurately. My Pokémon were very put off by it, though."
"Indeed. Something terrible happened to him. And, as the region's best Absol expert, I was given custody of that Absol to see to his rehabilitation," Sidney revealed with a determined look. "One day, I hope that he can personally thank you for what you've done for him."
Ash frowned. "I hope so because what you just said sounds worrying."
"Anyway, that Absol is why I was around these parts originally. I was about to head back to my office but my Absol sensed the attack on Rustboro and we both rushed here immediately. We encountered a heavy Team Aqua presence at the docks and then we rushed to defend the Town Hall," Sidney explained. "Now that the city is safe, I'm representing the Pokémon League on the scene and aiding the ongoing investigations against Team Aqua."
Ash looked at the substantial police presence just behind him. "Yeah, I can see that. Is this, uh, a bad time to come by?" he asked. "I understand if you're both busy. Everything did just happen yesterday."
"Oh no, it's not, Ash," Steven responded, placing a hand over his chest in a goodwill gesture. "I owe everything to you, so I can spare the time for you. I know you have your own journey to focus on."
Sidney's eyes narrowed as he looked between the two. He let out a small gasp and his eyes widened in realization. "I understand now," he murmured. "So, that's what happened yesterday."
"Huh? What's wrong?" Ash asked, blinking in confusion.
"As observant as always, Sidney," Steven praised admiringly. "Your assumption is indeed correct. However, I ask that you please keep it a secret until Ash consents to reveal anything. Don't tell anyone a thing."
Sidney nodded slowly. "I understand, Steven. Will do."
"Thank you." Steven looked back, surveying the general area and all the ongoing activities. "Hmm…"
Sidney shook his head and laughed. "You can go if you need to, Steven. I can handle it from here."
"Yes, I know. But are you sure that you'll be fine?" Steven asked worriedly. "There's a lot to be done here."
Sidney gave him a teasing look and smirked. "Excuse me, are you seriously asking if I'll be fine? Please, need I remind you that I'm an official representative of the Pokémon League?"
Steven snorted, barely containing a chuckle. "Yes, Mister Elite Four. And I'm a League Champion."
Sidney's smirk widened. "Former champion. Which means that you stopped being my boss when you resigned." He took several steps back and dramatically pointed at Steven. "Now, Absol. Can you please escort this civilian out of my active crime scene?" he requested with authority.
Absol smirked smugly and walked behind Steven. He easily pushed the former champion away until he was next to Ash. Absol backed off while winking playfully at him, casually turned around, and walked to his trainer's side.
Steven shook his head in amusement and turned around. "Fine, you win, Sidney." He motioned to Ash with a hand. "Come on, Ash. Follow me."
Ash looked between the two several times with a perplexed expression. "Okay?" He reached down to his belt and retrieved a Poké Ball from it. He pointed the device toward Pidgeot, recalling her with a red beam of energy that dematerialized the large avian back into the spherical device. Ash hooked it onto his belt and walked after Steven.
As the pair departed, Absol stopped and glanced over his shoulder with a worried frown. He looked up at Sidney and let out an anxious whine.
Sidney sighed unhappily. "I know, Absol. I know. But he's just a kid. I'm not going to fill a kid with paranoia because I told him you're sensing impending danger for him. If I understood correctly, it's his Legendary Pokémon who stopped Team Aqua's destruction of Rustboro. He's a strong trainer, has capable Pokémon, and can handle himself. He'll be fine when he confronts this danger." Sidney gently stroked Absol's head. "Or so I hope."
As Ash walked away, he looked over his shoulder, taking note of Sidney and his Absol walking back into the police barricades and disappearing inside. "He's a funny guy. What was that all about?" he asked.
Steven chuckled. "That's Sidney for you," he said fondly. "He's always been like that."
"Alright." Ash paused, thinking back to the commotion they had just left behind. "Are you sure you can spare the time? I can understand if you're busy."
"I can spare the time, it's fine. As I said, it's the least I could do for you after what you've done for us," Steven responded. "I want us to go somewhere in particular."
"Just making sure," Ash said. "So," he began awkwardly, unsure how to word his next question for a bit before settling for a simple, "how's everything?"
"Pretty hectic," Steven answered with an exhausted sigh while pinching the bridge of his nose. "While we were busy fighting their army, it turns out Team Aqua managed to steal a sizeable amount of sensible data from our main databases, as well as a valuable fossil restoration machine."
Ash winced. "Sorry about that. I didn't even notice it, so there wasn't anything that I could do about it."
"It's okay, Ash," Steven reassured gently. "Preventing my father's abduction was far more important. His freedom is a lot more valuable than some data and a machine. We can get those back eventually, who knows what they would've done to my father had they made off with him." He groaned faintly. "Other than that, you can say that things are sort of okay. The buildings are damaged, but nothing my father can't have repaired. Employees are spooked, so I left some of my Pokémon there to provide reassurance."
Ash followed along, listening with interest. "Speaking of your father, how is he? I hope he's doing alright despite the scare."
"He's still a bit shaken from the ordeal, but he's alright," Steven answered. "He's been chugging down coffee nonstop." He stifled a chuckle. "He didn't sleep all night from working on making sure everyone at the company was safe and assessing the aftermath."
"Yeah, he's going to have a lot of work to do in the coming weeks. But, hey, at least he's okay," Ash noted. "I was worried about his wellbeing."
"My father is a strong man. He won't let this ordeal derail him," Steven commented admiringly. He looked at Ash. "But enough about us. What about you, Ash? What about your Pokémon? Are they okay? I looked at the security recordings from the rooftop's cameras and saw parts of your fight, until they were destroyed. The fight was far more intense than I imagined."
"We're all okay," Ash answered, idly patting the Poké Balls on his belt. "Some better than others, but we're good. My Pidgeot took the worst damage, but as you saw her just now, she's doing quite alright after a good night's rest."
Steven smiled. "That's good news." The former champion looked ahead and then took a turn on a street corner, which prompted Ash to follow him. "What do you plan to do regarding what you just did, Ash?" he asked curiously.
"What do you mean?" Ash questioned, giving Steven a perplexed expression.
"Well, your Latios and Latias essentially saved the lives of tens of thousands of people when they saved Rustboro City. I don't know what you plan to do about that. After all, you deserve the recognition for your Pokémon's actions," Steven explained.
"I have a question," Ash countered, narrowing his eyes at the former champion. "And you're probably well-informed on the issue since you were just with the police and all that."
"Go ahead," Steven encouraged, patiently waiting for the younger trainer to elaborate.
Ash took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Does anyone in the city know it was me?" he asked. "My friends and I watched the news yesterday and today morning, and we saw no mention of my Pokémon's contributions. It was all shrouded in mystery. So, I was curious if someone knows and it just hasn't been on the news."
Steven looked up, going over what he knew so far. "A valid question. Well, the only people who know the truth are myself and my father, who were direct witnesses. Team Aqua, obviously, but I doubt they'll say something. And Sidney."
"Wait, Sidney knows? How?" Ash asked with a sharp gasp. "Did you tell him?"
"I didn't. He figured it out just now during our brief conversation. Sidney may look and act like a silly gangster, but under that guise lays a very cunning and observant person. He embodies the type he specializes in perfectly," Steven explained with clear respect in his voice. "But you don't have to worry about him. He's one of the most trustworthy people I know. He won't say a thing if you don't want him to." Steven paused, letting Ash absorb his answer. "Do you want to be credited with saving Rustboro City? I can vouch for you and give evidence to your deeds."
Ash frowned and stopped, prompting Steven to stop as well and turn to face him. "So, no one in the city truly knows what Latios and Latias did?" he questioned sharply.
"None as far as I know," Steven responded. "Most people were indoors or in shelters when Team Aqua's ship was preparing to fire, and most news crews fled for their lives. The few news crews that stayed to see couldn't get any good pictures or videos given the distances involved and the intense light that was radiating from your Pokémon and the cannon."
Ash hummed thoughtfully, going over the conversations he had with the dragon twins, as well as Brock and Bianca, the previous day and during the morning. Ash took a deep breath, his mind made up and finally said in a firm tone, "No, thank you."
Steven started and gave Ash an intrigued glance. "No?" he repeated.
"Believe it or not, this isn't the first city that Latios and Latias have saved. This is their second time. We didn't seek credit or fame over the first one, so I don't see why I should do it now." Ash looked into Steven's eyes, giving him a fiery and determined look. "You see, if I accept the credit and fame for saving Rustboro City, that is all I will be known for. It will be nice having five minutes of fame, but then what? I don't want to be famous for being a hero or a city savior." Ash smirked confidently. "There is only one thing I will allow my name to be famous for, and that's for being a good trainer."
Steven looked at the young trainer with interest and nodded along with his explanation. "I see…"
"When people hear the name of Ash Ketchum, the first and only thing I want on their mind is my skills and strength as a trainer," Ash added. "Not that I saved Rustboro City from Team Aqua."
Pikachu smirked on Ash's shoulder and nodded with satisfaction. "Definitely."
Ash raised a hand and closed it into a tight fist, his narrowed reddish eyes bright with limitless resolve. "I want my journey through Hoenn to be remembered by me winning the Hoenn League, not by me saving Rustboro City."
Pikachu mimicked the trainer's action with a raised paw. "And I completely agree with that!" he shouted energetically.
Ash looked at him and grinned. "You got that right, buddy!"
Steven gazed at the two with an astounded expression. He closed his eyes and smiled. "You're different from the rest," he assured calmly as he opened his eyes. "You're a very unique trainer, in far more ways than you imagine." Steven nodded and then resumed his stride, prompting Ash to follow him. "Very well. I will honor your wish, Ash. I won't reveal your contributions during the inevitable depositions I will be called upon to do, and I will pass on your wish of secrecy to my father and Sidney. This will remain a mystery, remembered forever as the miracle of Rustboro City."
"Thank you, Steven," Ash said. "I appreciate it."
"No problem," Steven replied in a friendly manner. "I have to say, I'm very much impressed with you. I can see why you made third at the Silver Conference despite your young age. Your ideals are ironclad, your goals are firm, and your Pokémon are strong. You faced monstrous opposition at the rooftops and you stood your ground along with your Pokémon to the very end."
Ash scratched the back of his head with a slight blush. "Thank you, and well, you've never met Pokémon like mine."
Pikachu smirked and nodded in agreement. "Oh yeah."
"I definitely have not. I can see it in the way your Pokémon behave, the way your Pikachu acts and looks at you. And, let's not forget the way your Latios, Latias, and Pidgeot fought around and with you yesterday. You're special, and something else," Steven praised, clapping his hands once. "You've earned my respect a hundred times over."
"Thank you," Ash replied, putting both hands behind his head to lean into them with a grin. "I'm flattered you speak so highly of me."
"It's well-deserved," Steven remarked with a firm nod.
"Hey, you know, your Pokémon are strong too, Steven," Ash pointed out. His eyes widened as an idea entered his mind. "That reminds me, I couldn't ask you much because of Team Aqua's intervention, but what's the deal with Mega Evolution?" he asked curiously.
Steven hummed and rubbed his chin. "I did promise you that we'd talk about it when there was time. I guess that time is now." He paused and took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts. "Mega Evolution is a temporary transformation during which the affected Pokémon gains an immense power boost and undergoes a change of appearance, and often size as well. To mega evolve your Pokémon, you need a Mega Stone that corresponds to your Pokémon's species. And, according to Pokémon League rules, a Key Stone as well."
"Gotcha, so Mega Stones are the ones that are held by the Pokémon, and the Key Stone is that thing you used to activate them yesterday?" Ash asked, raising an eyebrow while glancing at the multicolored stone pinned to Steven's lapel.
"Correct," Steven answered as he reached up to remove the Key Stone from his lapel. He held it up close so the younger trainer could inspect it. "Mega Stones come from nature, and they're quite hard to obtain because of their rarity. In contrast, these Key Stones are artificially-built to allow trainers and Pokémon to connect better and to give the trainer more control over it."
"Huh, connect? Control? What do you mean?" Ash asked curiously while leaning forward to examine the spherical stone closer, marveling at how it glistened under the sun's rays.
"You see, Mega Evolution is immensely powerful. It's so powerful that Pokémon who use it on their own run the risk of losing control of it and going on a rampage, unless they're extremely experienced. To alleviate that, they often need someone to share the burden with them. Personal bonds such as siblings, parents, or mates are ideal," Steven explained. "But those aren't often available for trainer-owned Pokémon. Now, bonds such as friends or trainer-Pokémon relationships can work, but often require the aid of a Key Stone to succeed as they're not as powerful as the ones I just mentioned."
"I get it," Ash said with an understanding nod. He pulled back and hummed. "Yesterday you did four at the same time, that must've been quite the challenge."
"It was," Steven admitted with a sigh. "I was mentally exhausted afterward. Some of my Pokémon are experienced enough where they can mega evolve on their own safely, but for prolonged Mega Evolutions where they're under constant stress from a fight like yesterday? They'll need me." The former champion smiled fondly. "Thankfully, my Aggron and Steelix are mates, so they can support each other's bond far better than I can. I just need to chip in a bit of support for both if they mega evolve together. Metagross is mostly fine on their own, I just need to look out after them every once in a while. Mawile is the most troublesome of the four because power goes to her head too easily. She's the one I have to actively focus on the most."
Ash nodded in understanding. "Okay, I think I'm getting the hang of it now. I wonder how some of my Pokémon would look if they mega evolved?" He looked up with a thoughtful expression.
Steven laughed in amusement. "Only a small number of species have Mega Evolutions, Ash. So, don't start imagining your Pikachu mega evolving."
"I wasn't," Ash lied, prompting Pikachu and Latios to chuckle to themselves.
"I won't tell you who those species are, either. Right now, you know of five species that can mega evolve. The rest are for you to find out throughout your adventure," Steven commented.
"Oh, I will," Ash said determinately. "And one day I will get myself one of those Mega Evolutions. Seriously, they sound awesome."
"Indeed, they are," Steven agreed. He took a turn on another street corner.
Ash dutifully followed him while looking around, taking note that most of the businesses and buildings remained closed for the time being. Occasional police trucks or officers would pass by and look at them, but Ash noticed that the moment they saw Steven, they politely left them alone. "So, you're the former champion of Hoenn, correct?"
"I am," Steven confirmed. "I resigned from my title last year."
"Why?" Ash asked curiously. "Being a champion is the ultimate dream come true for any Pokémon trainer. I can't fathom why anyone would simply give up on it."
"Oh, it is, Ash, it definitely is," Steven agreed serenely. "I held my spot as league champion of Hoenn for a decade, and for the longest time, I was living the dream. However, as the years went by, I found it less and less thrilling because I was too powerful." He let out a drawn-out sigh as nostalgic memories of his tenure came to the forefront of his mind. "I stopped seeing the challenge and finally grew bored of it. I resigned to seek new adventures in life. I have a passion for archeology, geology, and history, so, I decided to pursue that instead."
"So, what the Team Aqua woman said is true, then," Ash noted with astonishment. "You really are undefeated."
"Usually, champions are ousted when they're defeated in official battles. But I wasn't ousted, I resigned," Steven confirmed. "Throughout my tenure, I was never defeated in battle. My Metagross, to this day, has never fainted in a Pokémon battle. It's one of the reasons why I lost the thrill and passion for battling. It's hard to enjoy battles when you can't lose."
Ash smirked, skipped several steps forward, and turned around so he was directly facing Steven. With unbound tenacity, he raised a hand and pointed directly to the steel-type master. "Steven Stone, former champion of Hoenn, I formally challenge you to a Pokémon battle!"
Steven stopped in his tracks and looked at him with widened eyes. "Huh?" he mumbled incredulously.
"Uh, Ash, did you not hear the part where he's undefeated!?" Pikachu hissed into Ash's ear. "We're gonna get our tails kicked. Hard."
"I agree with Pikachu on that one," Latios said flatly.
"I know, and that's the point," Ash responded. He looked into the older trainer's light-blue eyes. "I'm aware I'll probably lose, but I won't improve as a trainer if I don't fight people stronger than I am. And, fighting a battle against an undefeated champion is an opportunity one can't ignore."
"Ash, you're truly admirable. Normally, I deny battle requests from all trainers. But since I owe you so much for what you've done..." Steven narrowed his eyes and gave a confident nod. "I hereby accept your challenge."
Ash grinned excitedly. "Yes! It's going down!"
"But, not right now," Steven objected him while raising a hand. "I want to meet up with you tomorrow as well, as a follow-up of today. I will grant you that battle tomorrow."
Ash paused and frowned. He nodded in understanding. "Alright. Sounds like a plan." He turned around and resumed walking, as did Steven. "I'm totally looking forward to fighting a former champion. I do have a question, though. You said you've never been defeated, right?"
"That's correct," Steven replied curtly.
"What about the other champions? Can't they beat you either? Does that mean you're the strongest champion of all champions?" Ash questioned, idly thinking about his encounter with Lance in Johto.
"Battles with other champions are about the only fights that get me riled up and interested," Steven confessed. "The thing is, other champions can't officially challenge me within my region. So, I was stuck doing the regular matches champions have to oblige to as part of the position, such as when a league winner manages to clear the elite four challenge and make it to the championship match, or when an elite four member challenges me for my spot as champion," he clarified. "Sometimes, champions are staged to fight each other as part of public events and things like that, but they're never official battles."
"I see," Ash muttered with a thoughtful hum. "That makes sense."
"There are two other champions who I was never able to defeat in battle. But they, in turn, have never beaten me either." Steven crossed his arms. "I can tell you about some of those battles tomorrow, as I'll have the perfect opportunity. They're about the only battles where I've been pushed to the limit."
"Alright, I'm looking forward to that." Ash looked around, taking note of their surroundings. "May I ask, where are we going exactly? We've been walking for several blocks now."
"We're almost there, our destination is on this block," Steven replied. "I hope you've enjoyed the walk and conversation."
"I have, it's been nice," Ash said gratefully. "You're a very cool guy and I look forward to our battle tomorrow."
"Oh, I very much look forward to it too," Pikachu commented eagerly, rubbing his paws together in delight.
"Uh, I don't plan to use you, Pikachu," Ash commented with an apologetic laugh. "Sorry, buddy."
Pikachu smirked. "Oh, I already knew that. You always use Latios for special battles like this."
"Huh, then why are you looking forward to it?" Ash asked while giving the electric-type an odd stare.
Pikachu's smirk broadened. "Because I can't wait to see Latios get his tailfeathers handed to him tomorrow. This is gonna be so good!" he gushed.
"Hey!" Latios snapped. "I'm going to try, okay?"
"You do you," Pikachu said with a dismissive wave of his paw. "Good luck, you'll need it."
Steven looked at them and smiled. "Your relationship with your Pokémon is wonderful," he noted. "You're so different from the average trainer."
"Thank you. You see, I don't think of my Pokémon as just my Pokémon," Ash explained, reaching up to gently rub Pikachu's chin, eliciting a soft sigh of content from the electric-type. "They're my friends, my family. We're in this together, no matter what."
"I see," Steven muttered. "I wish more trainers were like you, it'd make the world a much better place." He stopped in his tracks. "And, we're here."
"Huh, what's this?" Ash wondered, marveling at the elegant silver-painted storefront they had arrived at. Two large windows of reinforced glass displayed several items of beautiful jewelry and other lovely trinkets, prompting Ash to look up and read the store's stylish banner. "Huh, a jewelry store? Why here of all places?" He looked at the door, which was locked and had a sign that read 'closed' on it. "Plus, it's closed."
"Yes, it's closed. All non-essential businesses were ordered to close for three days while the aftermath of Team Aqua's attack is assessed. Anyway, I just messaged my friend that we're here," Steven said as he pocketed a sophisticated PokéNav. "He should open the door any minute now."
The door in front of them clicked and opened. An elderly man poked his head out and smiled upon seeing the former champion. "Steven, welcome. Please, come in." He stepped inside.
"Alright. Come inside, Ash," Steven instructed as he walked in.
Ash nodded and followed them, but stopped at the door and glanced back. "The door is kind of narrow. You happy to wait outside, Latios?"
"Yeah, I don't mind," Latios replied with an unseen shrug.
"Okay," Ash said as he resumed his step and entered the shop. "Wow," he breathed out in astonishment as he took in the rows of shelves and crystal showcases that lined the store's interior, filled with glittering jewels. "It's so pretty!"
The elderly man closed the door behind the pair and locked it. "What can I do for you, Steven?" he asked as he walked over to the counter. "You haven't come by in a while."
"I'd like to buy something. Sorry about making you come here just for this, but it's a bit urgent as my friend won't be staying in Rustboro for long," Steven explained apologetically. He looked at Ash and smiled. "This is a thank you gift from myself and my father, for everything that you did for us."
"I'm not sure about this." Ash frowned. "I'm sorry, Steven. But I don't really like jewelry, nor am I the type to wear it." He reached to his chest and lifted the Latios and Latias figurines on his necklace. "I only wear this because it has special value for me because of my Pokémon."
Steven chuckled. "Oh, I figured that was the case. But what I'm buying for you isn't for you to wear, nor is it only about you. Here's a question that you need to keep in mind when you choose what you want." He spread his arms to motion toward the shop's contents displayed all around them. "If you were to buy something for your Pidgeot, what would you give her? The gift is also for her. She did, after all, play a crucial role in saving my father."
"Huh, for my Pidgeot?" Ash asked while scratching his head in confusion. "That's odd. I mean, Pokémon wearing accessories isn't exactly unheard of. I guess I've seen some trainers that let their Pokémon use scarves, collars, or jewelry, I guess? Though, it's not something I think of much or do myself."
"It's crucial that you pick something yourself for the gift to work out as intended, which is why I didn't just go and buy it on my own," Steven explained. "Trust me. What you pick here, must be important for you and Pidgeot on a personal level."
Ash nodded slowly, still rather unsure. "Okay, then." He hummed and looked over the rows of intricate rings, necklaces, bracelets, pendants, and other types of jewelry for both Pokémon and Human displayed on the many shelves and showcases. He walked over to one of them that caught his attention and leaned in to examine its contents. "All of these are pretty… and really expensive." He winced at some of the price tags. "Are you sure about this?"
"I am," Steven replied. "As I said, father and I are extremely grateful for what you've done. So, don't worry about the price, we'll pay for it. Just pick something that you like, something that you think feels right. It's very important," he encouraged.
"Okay." Ash rubbed his chin in thought and walked around the store, carefully going over the assortment of jewelry available for sale.
Pikachu followed along on Ash's shoulder with a bored expression, as he didn't have much interest in accessories. As Ash rummaged around, the electric-type froze and his eyes widened as realization dawned upon him. He turned his head to look at Steven, letting his eyes slowly drift to the multicolored stone pinned to his suit. 'Hey, Latios, does Pidgeot… you know?' he queried, waiting patiently for the psychic dragon to pick up on his thoughts.
"I was thinking the same thing," Latios replied, narrowing his telepathy so only Pikachu would hear him. "But I don't know which species get it and which don't. Ho-Oh never gave me a list. So, I'm drawing a blank on this."
'It has to be, right? There's no other reason for this to be happening. Ash is right. Trainers using accessories on their Pokémon isn't uncommon, but we just met someone who uses accessories on Pokémon for a very specific reason,' Pikachu thought, gasping slightly. He looked up to Steven's face, searching for any inklings on the former champion's motives.
Steven noticed Pikachu's staring and raised a single finger to his mouth, making a shushing motion while giving him a subdued smile.
Pikachu let out the breath he didn't even know he had been holding and just smiled back. 'Oh, I see. It's going to be a surprise. Let's not tell Ash, then. He's going to be so excited tomorrow!'
"Oh yeah, he will be," Latios agreed. "I'll just play dumb. I'm not even inside the store so I have an excuse."
Pikachu grinned and looked at Ash, who was leaning forward with a focused expression as he looked over the numerous trinkets displayed on a shelf in front of him. 'This will be amazing,' the electric-type thought eagerly.
"Hey, I like this one," Ash spoke up while pointing at the glass of one of the showcases, catching everyone's attention.
"Oh, which one?" Steven asked, walking over to the younger trainer's side. He leaned over and followed Ash's pointing. He nodded in approval. "I see, that looks very lovely indeed."
Steven stood upright and looked at the shopkeeper, who was casually leaning on the counter while waiting for the two trainers to finish their business. "I'd like this one," he announced.
The elder shopkeeper walked behind the glass exhibit and unlocked it. He picked up the item and then walked to a backroom. After a few minutes, he came out of the room while holding an elegant case, which he then put inside a sachet. "I'll mail you the bill in a few days, Steven. I'm not supposed to be making any sales today."
"Thank you," Steven responded appreciatively as he took the sachet in his hands. "I'll make a transfer as soon as I get it. I apologize for making you come over on an off day."
"It's quite alright, Steven," the elder said. "Tell your father I send my regards."
"I will," Steven replied as he walked over to the door. "Come, Ash. We have to get going." He unlocked the door and left.
Ash followed the former champion out and closed the door behind him, which clicked soon after due to the elder locking it. "So, what's next? Should I release Pidgeot?"
"Not yet," Steven answered. "It still needs to be properly fitted to her size so she can wear it. My father will have some of the engineers at Devon do that for us." Steven grabbed a single Poké Ball from a pocket in his suit and held it forward. The device activated in a bright flash of white light, releasing Skarmory.
"Hey, Skarmory," Ash greeted in a friendly manner. "How are you doing?" he asked as he noticed the deep gashes still present on his metallic armor.
"Hello there, Ash," Skarmory responded politely, giving the trainer a curt nod of acknowledgement. "I'm doing fine, thank you." He glanced at Steven, patiently waiting for instructions.
Steven grabbed the sachet and hung it around Skarmory's neck. "Take this to my father. He already knows what to do with it."
"I will." Skarmory took a couple of steps back and spread his bladed wings, which shined gallantly under the bright sunlight. With the powerful flap of his wings, he took off, flying to Devon headquarters.
Ash looked at the departing avian until he had lost sight of him over Rustboro City's tall buildings. "So, what now?" he wondered, returning his attention to the former champion.
"That's all for today, Ash," Steven responded. "I have to go take care of something else." He reached into one of his pockets and took out a piece of paper, which he handed to Ash. "This is the address to my father's estate on the Rustboro outskirts. Please, come meet me there tomorrow afternoon. There, we'll have the battle I promised you, and I should have your gift ready."
Ash took the piece of paper and looked at it, reading its contents. He folded it neatly and tucked it into the pocket of his jeans. "Alright, sounds like a plan."
"I advise that you prepare for your battle, as I won't hold back," Steven warned as he turned around and began to walk away.
Ash smirked at the retreating Steven. "Oh, I will," he promised. "I can't wait for tomorrow," he whispered as he turned around, opting to head to the Pokémon Trainer's School to meet up with Brock, Bianca, and Latias.
Chapter 27 End
Author Notes: And that concludes the chapter! I hope you all had fun reading it! Remember, I have a DISCORD SERVER! If you want to join our community of fanfiction enthusiasts, head over there! Link is on my profile!
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