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Pyrite Town

Michael considered the flyer for the Tournament of the Bandit Hero in his hand. It outlined the rules of the competition, a four round knockout style with the first three being restricted to a 4 on 4 Double Battle. The finals would be the more classical 6 on 6 Double Battle, fitting for a grand finale the trainer supposed.

He'd participated in tournaments before. Entered one or two in Pyrite before and did partake in a few at the Realmgate Colosseum down south. None of this surprised him.

But something was nagging at his mind as he crawled out of his hotel bed (competitors got free lodging during the duration of the competition). He couldn't put his finger on it, but how things went down in his conversation with Duking yesterday put him on edge. Nothing about what was said mind you. Michael couldn't recall anybody raising their voices at anybody.

It was something in the background. Something he didn't notice then.

He reached up onto the desk where he placed the Master Ball last night. Espeon was just getting up from the bed, stretching his back and yawning. The Ball itself seemed a little dim, like the presence within was just as groggy as the cat was.

Closing his eyes, Michael took a deep breath as he practiced the meditation exercise Sabrina taught him. He'd done it a few times before and he felt himself getting better at it. Indeed, he felt his consciousness drift while the Master Ball glowed almost in response.

As he opened his eyes, Michael gazed on the now-familiar misty landscape of his soul. At least, that's how Sabrina described it from what he understood. She did say there was a more technical term for it, but it was just easier to remember it as one's soul. Quite frankly describing it the way she did sounded clunky enough.

Shadow Lugia appeared before him, gazing upon the boy with those inquisitive eyes of his.

Is something the matter? he asked.

Michael rubbed the back of his head, sighing as he looked for the right words. "Yeah...I've been sleeping on something and I need your opinion. Did you notice anything while I was talking with Duking yesterday?"

The legendary took his eyes off the teen, before refocusing after having thought about it. You did seem a little agitated when you began to talk about Cipher and their position here in Pyrite Town.

"Yeah...that's what I figured." Another deep breath to clear his head. "It's just...it always feels like Greevil's always one step ahead. We stop a raid, his team gets what he wants. You try to get out and fight, he finds a way to neutralize you. Not to mention we still have no clue as to where he's hiding."

It cannot be much longer. The discovery of Project Tempest was a breakthrough since it narrowed down the search considerably. All we need to do now is dig deeper and soon Greevil will have no place to hide.

Michael folded his arms, his brow furrowing. "Even then, Greevil might have a bunch of defenses set up. He might even be able to get that mech of his running. I took a look at the schematics and if it really can do all that stuff and is powered by Kaminko's plans...we've gonna have a disaster on our hands."

True. But you still have me and the Titans on your side, the sea dragon pointed out. You're hardly unprepared for such a battle.

"Even still it feels like he's picking us apart. We lose the International Police, and we lose a good chunk of our forces. The militias are good, but without Looker-"

Never underestimate a people willing to fight for their home. Win their hearts through this tournament, and you will be surprised. Often it takes a hero to inspire others to take a stand, Lugia said firmly.

"I guess...but a hero...a hero needs to be in control. To put on a strong face. If he fails, he'll have far to fall." Michael paced anxiously, drawing the dark titan's eyes. "He can't mess up. He...he needs to be more than human."

Being human is what makes you a hero. It's how one deals with them is that matters. Locking them down and holding them in will only cause your heart to erode. Believe me, I know. A chill ran down Shadow Lugia and Michael's spines, the memories of Citadark Isle crawling out from the gloom.

Greevil wanted me to be a weapon. To be in control. He believed in power and strength without weakness. Without flaw. He wanted me to become...perfect. Anything less was a flaw to be corrected by any means necessary. Any emotion that interferes with my performance is to be tied down and controlled. For any sign of weakness would bring shame upon my master.

So I did...and you remember what happened.

Michael sighed. The Water's Guardian was right. Even still. "It still doesn't change the fact that Greevil's still out there. And I…"

You had a chance to kill him, but you did not take it?

He gulped as he looked up into Shadow Lugia's eyes. "...yes. We had him right where we wanted him-"

What would your mother have thought?

The words may as well as pierced his heart. "I...I don't-"

Your sister? Your friends? Your allies? If you told them you killed a man in cold blood...could you live with yourself? The consequences of you doing such a thing would've been irreparable. Orre would be saved...but you would've been lost.

"This is bigger than us!" Michael countered back frantically. Sweat started to drip down his neck. "It wouldn't matter if I get put away! Cipher would've been dead right then, and-"

You don't know that. Ardos could very easily have taken up the fight. And...do you think so low of yourself that you'll throw away everything you have, everything you are just to put a mad man down?

Again, Michael wasn't sure of how to respond to that. Defeating Cipher was more important than anything. How could his personal wellbeing matter if they're out there hurting countless of others? He needed to do what he needed in order to stop Greevil. There couldn't be any compromise. He needed-

You believed me to be more than a weapon. Why must you think yourself to be one?

…

He hugged himself as he slumped down on his knees, defeated. "I...I just want to stop Cipher. They hurt so many...I just want to see them dead and buried."

And they will be, Michael, Shadow Lugia said as he stalked over, putting a wing around the distressed child. No matter how conflicted you may be, there are others that have suffered under Cipher's boot. Hurt by their oppression. They share your anguish. And what better way to bring your tormentors down than by coming together with others they have hurt.

Michael looked up at Shadow Lugia, the legendary's gaze surprisingly soft in spite of his intimidating visage.

We'll defeat Greevil. Together.

The teen smiled as he hugged the Titan.

"Yeah...we will…"

Lovrina considered the pamphlet to the tournament she held in her hands.

It was an incredibly stupid and reckless maneuver. There were about a thousand things that could go wrong. The moment that Duking and his thugs figured out she entered into the competition, they could easily put her away. Not to mention the sheer audacity of entering such a tournament dedicated to the one who defeated Cipher before in the first place.

As she walked through the streets towards the dome though, she felt her confidence build up once more. The former admin saw a lot of the looks that people were giving each other. It didn't take a genius that rifts in the community had been forming ever since the agents arrived in town. Lovrina bet that if she did get caught, it would cause a riot since Cipher was getting a foothold here in terms of support. The threat of open conflict could keep Duking away. She knew he was a tough man, but somehow open warfare in the streets didn't seem like something he would allow.

And even if she did get caught, chances were she'd be thrown in the local police department. Considering what she saw of the local chief and his officer...escape wouldn't be too difficult. At the very least if a riot did break out she'd have a head start over the authorities as she made her way to the wastes.

But the big reason was the tournament itself. If what she heard was true, not only would the winner gain a huge cash prize (funds for supplies and a possible getaway if need be), but also glory and respect from the community. A Cipher admin winning it would practically win over the entire town, allowing them to firmly establish themselves. Any resistance from Duking would most certainly cause an even bigger riot, possibly resulting in loss of life. Something he couldn't afford. Simply put, she'd be home free if she won.

And finally win her way back into Cipher's good graces. She'd be the one to get a solid win for the organization after so long. Not just another raid, a real foothold back into the playing field.

Yeah...being accepted back into Cipher…

Her face fell as she thought about that.

Was...was that what she really wanted?

Lovrina had been looking over the files again and again. The same result. That same horrible look from each of the Shadow Pokemon. Those memories from Gateon Port resurfacing each and every time. She tried to convince herself she was doing the right thing but...those eyes wouldn't leave her head.

Did...did she even do the right thing?

All that time since Gateon she'd been rolling it over and over in her head. Over and over again she struggled with that very question. How was it that she had been so sure that turning Pokemon into Shadow Pokemon was a good thing? She remembered having issues with it at the start. But as time went on it seemed...well, easier. Lovrina didn't know what she did to cope with it, if at all. She didn't know what was worse.

As she looked around at all the town residents heading towards the dome at the end of town, her eyes were drawn to a redhead wearing a yellow shirt. Specifically, a redhead with an Espeon following in his stead.

Michael.

Lovrina knew he was in-town of course. Who didn't? After the siege of the ONBS building, who didn't know his face. She even saw him when he was walking into town yesterday.

And if he was there...fair bet so was XD-001.

Was that the other reason?

Trying to snatch XD-001 was out of the question. She didn't want to pull another stunt like she did back in Gateon port. Having said that though…

Lovrina didn't know why, but she knew she had to battle Michael again.

As for the reason, she wasn't sure. But somehow she knew the answers she sought would only be found in battle.

More importantly, she knew she needed to face XD-001.

The air of the colosseum was thick with tension. Everyone watched with anticipation from the balconies of the arena as Marcia was setting herself up down below from the side of the arena along with her cameraman, Cameran. Tattered banners showing pokeballs hung from the viewing areas, swinging in the breeze coming from the holes in the ceiling.

All of a sudden, the tension broke as Duking strode into the arena. The crowd went ecstatic with cheers and Marcia quickly told Cameran to point his camera at the leader of Pyrite Town. In his hand was a microphone, almost comically small due to his large size.

Everyone went quiet as he tapped his microphone for silence.

"Five years. Five long years. Seems almost like a lifetime ago when Cipher first reared its ugly head," Duking began. "I still remember when they ran rampant across town, practically owning the streets from their headquarters in the old Pyrite Building. They...they were nothing Orre had ever seen. And their Shadow Pokemon...they were among some of the most terrifying and dangerous in the region. Seemed like nobody could stand up to them.

"Then...one of them stopped. One of them said 'enough'. He saw what they were doing, and refused to go any further. He took the Snag Machine that gave them their Pokemon and turned it against them. He found someone who could see the black aura surrounding their Shadow Pokemon, and rode from Phenac City to find them.

"Here was where everything changed. Here...here's where Wes and Rui took the fight to Cipher."

Everyone was silent as they heard his words.

Duking continued. "They chased them all across Orre. No matter where they hid, they rooted them out. They saved all those Pokemon, captured the Legendary Beasts, and put an end to their schemes. And they proceeded to help put Evice, their leader, behind bars. Thus, Cipher was defeated for the first time.

"Since then...they haven't been seen in Orre since. No one knows where they went. But where ever they are, we'll always remember them."

At that, Duking point to a metal platform set to the side of the arena. Upon them sat a pair of ornate-looking chairs. Almost like thrones for a king and a queen.

"These thrones," he continued, "are a reminder of their courage and determination. They shall remain empty, for even if they are not here, their spirit remains. And should...no...when they return, they will have a seat at the colosseum they first laid down the law and drew the battle lines against Cipher.

"Times though...have changed. It should be no secret to anyone that Cipher is back. They've attacked us at ONBS. They took Phenac City hostage. And they carried a cargo ship and dumped it in the middle of the desert, corrupting all the Pokemon within! Even now, I know that they have agents within this city, hoping to undermine us.

"But if they think that'll scare us...they're wrong. We've seen their like before, and we ran them out of town! They think Orre is nothing but a rotting carcass, but we proved them wrong before, and we WILL do it again! Right now, Greevil is hiding in whatever hole he crawled in and licking his wounds! Well, this is a message for their so-called 'Grandmaster'

"WE WILL NOT BE INTIMIDATED! WE WILL NOT BE BEATEN! AND AS LONG AS THOSE CHAIRS SIT THERE, THE SPIRIT OF THE HEROES OF ORRE REMAIN AND WILL SEE US THROUGH THE DARKNESS!"

The crowd roared with approval as Duking finished his speech. It was almost like he captured the very spirit of the crowd itself and put it into thunderous words. The very air reverberated with the cacophony of countless souls, making their presence to the world known.

On that day, all eyes were focused on Pyrite Colosseum. For the very heart of Orre beat loudly with pride.

With the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand, Duking proceeded to kick the event off proper. "Introducing first, to start out our tournament the right way, he's the one who drove Cipher to the edge. The one that saved the ONBS from their siege. The one who defeated Greevil and snagged the infamous Shadow Lugia. He is, the one, the only, MICHAEL!"

Michael stepped out to the arena as the crowd went wild. He raised up his Snag Machine as he greeted the enraptured onlookers. Old feelings of euphoria re-emerged as he remembered the first tournament he participated in.

Even in the midst of the adulations however, his ear did pick up a few boos and jeers. They were mostly drowned out from the praise, but they were still loud enough to be noticeable. Comments about telling him to "crawl back to his puppet masters." He tried to pay them no mind, but it was a grim reminder for why he was here.

"AND HIS OPPONENT! He says he is the first trainer that Wes battled when he left Team Snagem! A roamer, always riding the sands looking for a fight…"

Michael could almost see the words being written down by his opponent. He learned about who he was gonna battle that morning so it didn't come as any surprise. Still though, his eccentricities were...odd sometimes.

"He is… Rider Willie!"

Another round of applause from the audience was heard as the pink-haired biker made his way to the other side of the arena. He and Michael locked eyes as they sized the other up.

"Looks like you're getting your rematch Willie," Michael said as he fished out his first two pokeballs.

"I was just waiting for a chance for another go," the rider responded as he warmed himself up. "I did promise you a rematch was coming your way."

"You did promise that." Granted Michael hadn't known when, but he supposed that was the nature when dealing with a biker.

"You two understand the rules?" Duking asked.

Both Michael and Willie nodded in agreement as they both stared each other down. It was an unsaid rule that when two trainers lock eyes with each other that a battle would follow. While not entirely true, there's no doubting the outcome in the middle of a colosseum with thousands of spectators. Especially when said trainers have duked it out before.

With both the trainers in agreement, Duking took up his position on the side of the field as the referee. Marcia and Cameran also got into place as they began to film the arena.

"Then let the first battle of the tournament commence!"

Michael flicked his wrist and threw his activated Pokeballs. A pair of flashing lights materialized into a snarling Houndoom and Gardevoir who appeared with a flourish. A Dark and Psychic-type should give me good coverage to start out with, he thought in his head.

"Let's roll!" Willie shouted as he flung out his two Pokeballs in response. One flash of light released a streamlined, mammalian Pokemon. A bit like a Furret, but with the stripes running down its side and a lot nastier look. The Linoone snarled as he eyed the opposing side warily.

The other flash of light materialized into a much taller figure, with a yellow top and a brown bottom. A series of brown spots ran down its neck as the Girafarig reared up and kicked their hooves into the air.

Michael blinked as he saw the Long Neck Pokemon. "...you have other Pokemon aside from Linoones?" That was a serious question. The last time he fought him the biker had come with two Linoones and two Zigzagoons.

Willie shrugged. "Girafarig's an old friend. Figured she'd want a go at the one who brought down Cipher. Not to mention I wanted to mix things up for such a special event."

The younger trainer grimaced. He'd almost expected another Miror B. with using almost a single Pokemon species for a team. This certainly through a Mankey wrench into his plans. There's no telling what other Pokemon his opponent might have up his sleeve.

For now, though, he needed to focus. Girafarig, if he recalled that species was a Normal-type, but it did have a Psychic-type as well. That gave him an idea.

"Houndoom! I want you to handle Girafarig for now. Try to see if you can draw out any of her attacks but don't get too tied up." The Dark-type nodded as she glared at the giraffe. Her typing should lock down any Psychic attacks the other may throw at her.

"Gardevoir, tie-down that Linoone, but watch yourself. Chances are that one's gonna know Pin Missle. Do what you can and I'll switch you out when we've got an opening. Go for a knockout if you can, don't want to spend too much time with these guys. Especially if we don't know what else Willie's got." Gardevoir nodded as she began to collect herself, focusing on her inner zen through Calm Mind.

Houndoom had the opposite reaction, giving off a blood curling Howl to get her adrenaline up before charging the Long Neck Pokemon. She let out a quick Flamethrower, the flames licking at her opponent's hooves. Girafarig managed to prance safely out of the way with Agility, before charging through the dying embers. Houndoom snarled as she narrowly dodged a Stomp from those powerful hooves before wheeling around with her fangs barred for a Crunch. Again, the giraffe managed to bob out of the way before delivering a sharp kick to Houndoom's flank with a Stomp. The canine dug her claws into the floor as she stabilized herself from the impact.

Movement to her left caught her attention as the Linoone began to dart in for a Headbutt. Or at least they would've, if they weren't blasted away by a Psychic attack

Linoone quickly managed to get up back on her legs, ice forming within her maw. Gardevoir saw the incoming Ice Beam and quickly set up a Light Screen, allowing the icy beam to shatter harmlessly against her mental shield.

As the shield fell though, Gardevoir cried out in pain as a sharpened quill of hair struck her shoulder. She hastily set up a Reflect in retaliation, but not before another Pin Missile struck her side. Linoone arched her back as she sent the rest of the quills into the conjured up barrier, before charging at the empath as the distressed empath.

Gardevoir felt the wind being knocked out of her as Linoone slammed into her with Headbutt, the both of them tumbling to the ground in a heap. The badger snarled as she attempted to bite and claw at the Psychic-type, but Gardevoir managed to blast her off with a Psychic.

"You okay?!" Michael called out. Gardevoir dragged herself back up as she grimaced in pain. Judging from the bruises on her body, she certainly didn't look too good. He'd need to pull her out soon. But the Linoone didn't look too good either as they groggily pulled themselves up from the dirt.

"Try to see if you can hang on for a knockout! Maybe pop in a Future Sight while you're at it. Give them something to think about!" Michael suggested. Nodding, Gardevoir thrust out her hands as she began to throw her psychic energies into the near future.

Linoone's eyes narrowed as she lept forward and unleashed an Ice Beam upon the exposed maiden-

-only for it to be intercepted by a powerful Fire Blast from Houndoom.

The difference in power was obvious and immediate. The Fire Blast completely consumed the ice, the impact from the opposite extremes of the elements forcing Linoone back. She managed to dig her claws into the steel of the arena-

-only to be sent flying by a Psychic.

The embers and crystals were swept away as Gardevoir furrowed her brow, her eyes lightened up from the power used. Linoone crashed into the ground, eyes dazed and fur singed from the fire attack.

Duking made the call. "Linoone is unable to battle! That's one knockout for Gardevoir and Michael!" The badger disappeared back into her Pokeball as the battle continued to rage. Houndoom let forth another Flamethrower at the incoming Girafarig. The giraffe proceeded to stop and channel forth a strange kind of energy, almost seemingly from the very ground itself. As the power reached the tip of her horns, she unleashed it through Secret Power, stopping the fire attack in its tracks.

Houndoom proceeded to leap through the smoldering cinders of the inferno, her fangs barred as she lept on the Long Neck Pokemon's back. Girafarig danced around, trying to throw off her attack, but the dog clamped her jaws at the base of the neck with Crunch. The Psychic-type cried out in both pain and anger as she violently twisted around, throwing Houndoom off before kicking her in the face with a well-placed Stomp.

Another kick sent the hound to the dirt. The Fire-type wearily got back up on her feet, but began to shake her head almost as if trying to clear her mind. Michael realized with a start what happened. Secret Power had an additional effect that can cause a debilitating condition depending on the area. In this case, it must've confused Houndoom.

He was about to call out her name when Girafarig began to paw the earth. The teen could almost taste the power building up in the very ground itself. As the giraffe reared up, he realized what was about to happen. "Gardevoir! Use Reflect now!" The empath complied as she raised the barrier, her brow beginning to sweat. If he could get his Pokeballs out fast enough he could-

It was too late. Girafarig stamped the earth, letting forth a mighty Earthquake from her hooves. Houndoom was too close and too disoriented to evade and took the full brunt of the attack. The angry earth surged forward as it collided with Gardevoir's barrier. For a moment, it seemed it would hold. But the fight with Linoone had taken its toll. Her Reflect dissipated as the energized earth slammed into her. It wasn't the full force of the attack, but it was more than enough to bring her to her knees.

As the dust settled and the earth subsided, the damage was obvious. Houndoom was laying upon the earth in a daze. Gardevoir was kneeling and breathing heavily, just barely keeping herself up, but clearly unable to continue.

There really was only one call.

Duking raised his arms. "Gardevoir and Houndoom are unable to battle! That's two knockouts to Willie and Girafarig!"

"Oh yeah! We're on full throttle now!" Willie cheered as Girafarig pawed the earth once more. The crowd went wild with the sudden turn of events. Michael silently recalled his Pokemon.

"Seems like somebody's gotten a lot better since last we battled," he commented.

"You bet! I told you I was coming at you with everything we've got!" The rider proceeded to fish out his next Pokeball from his belt. It suddenly occurred to Michael that Willie had almost intentionally delayed calling out his next Pokemon so they wouldn't be hurt by Earthquake.

Clever, he thought. His mind began to race as he planned his next move. Girafarig didn't look like she had much steam left after that Crunch though. Taking her down shouldn't be too difficult.

It's Willie's other two Pokemon that worried him. If he switched things up, there was no telling he was bringing to the table.

He'd better make this fast.

"FEAROW! ESPEON! LET'S WRAP IT UP!"

His Pokeballs opened, revealing the raptor and the mystical cat respectively. Willie grinned as he fished out his next ball.

"Let's light em up Dodrio!"

The energy from the ball coalesced into the form of a large, seemingly flightless, three headed bird. Dodrio announced her arrival with a trio of shrill cries and a display of her tail feathers.

Michael frowned. Dodrio was a Flying-Type so they wouldn't be affected by Girafarig's Earthquake. Not to mention the three heads meant it was likely to know Tri Attack, a fairly dangerous move. Granted he already knew a counter for that, but he had a feeling that Willie didn't just send that Linoone out first haphazardly. Probably wanted to set up for that double knockout. If he thought that far ahead, this was gonna be much tougher than he thought.

"Espeon. See if you can draw the Dodrio's fire. Maybe hold him in place for that Future Sight to hit home. Fearow, focus on taking out Girafarig. Stay close together since they may try another Earthquake." Espeon and Fearow nodded as they faced down their respective targets.

Dodrio was the first to strike, her talons scrapping the floor as she charged forth with her beaks snapping. Espeon jumped back, dodging the first flurry of Fury Attack at the last minute and sneaking in a Quick Attack into her flank. The bird steadied her feet as she wheeled around, striking Espeon with a peck of one of her beaks before kicking her away with her claws.

The Sun Pokemon narrowly landed on his paws before his gem shined forth, sending a Psychic blast towards the incoming bird. To Espeon's shock, Dodrio just powered through the massive wave of energy with what seemed like reckless abandon. It only took him a few seconds before he rapidly swiped his tail on the ground, kicking up a Sand Attack and blinding the incoming bird. Dodrio squawked with surprise as her Pursuit went wide.

Espeon quickly dodged to the side and sent a Shockwave at the barreling Dodrio, striking her in the side. The Triple Bird Pokemon shrieked with rage as she wheeled around with her claws outstretched, almost catching the mystical cat with a Steel Wing. However, the sand in her eyes threw off her aim and caused her to swing a little too high. Espeon took this opportunity to back up towards Fearow, hoping to close the distance to his companion.

Meanwhile, Fearow was having problems of her one. The Girafarig was maintaining an assault, firing Psychic after Psychic at the raptor. She managed to keep herself nimble by loosening her feathers with Agility, but she wasn't able to get an attack in. The assault was simply too furious. Best she could do was hope to tire Girafarig out before she herself tuckered out.

Naturally this didn't happen as the Long Neck Pokemon seemingly began to stamp in frustration at the ground.

Michael on the other hand saw the movement for what it was. "Espeon! Get on Fearow's back! Quick!"

Their eyes widening from knowing what was going on, Fearow quickly lowered herself enough for Espeon to clamber on her back. She began to gain as much altitude from the earth as she could.

Girafarig cried as she let another psychic shock into the ground, causing another Earthquake to form. Dodrio heard the rumbles just in time as she lept high into the air, her tail feathers catching her mid jump to keep her suspending from the angry earth.

Luckily for Michael's Pokemon, their stunt paid dividends as they narrowly avoided being smacked by the Earthquake, Fearow's wings keeping them safely above danger. Espeon quickly leapt off board to keep the raptor from tiring out. The stunt earned them a roar of approval from the crowd.

It was then that Fearow noticed the tired out Girafarig, panting heavily. The strain from using so much psychic energy must've tuckered her out quite a bit.

An opportunity.

Willie saw it too, reaching for his Pokeball and clicking the button to recall his partner, but it was too late. Fearow's wings were tucked in as she slammed into the tired Girafarig with Pursuit. Caught off guard partly due to fatigue and almost being recalled, the Long Neck Pokemon collapsed to the ground in a heap.

It was an obvious call for Duking. "Girafarig is unable to battle! The score is now two to two!" The crowd cheered with a bit more enthusiasm than before. Something that Michael had fully noticed.

"Looks like somebody hasn't lost his touch!" Willie admitted as he got out his last Pokeball. "I knew there was something special about you when you walked into the stand all that time ago!"

"I'd say surrender now when you have a chance, but we both know that's not gonna happen," Michael stated flatly.

The biker only smirked. "Give up? Now?! You've gotta be outta your mind! This is when things get interesting!"

Michael didn't say anything. He simply watched as Willie sent out his last Pokemon. The energy materialized into another Linoone, something not totally unexpected. Already his mind was playing out the end of the battle.

"Fearow, take care of that Linoone but be careful. There's no telling what attacks it might have. Espeon. Finish off that Dodrio. Try to make sure Future Sight hits," he ordered briskly. His Pokemon nodded dutifully.

At this point, Willie noticed something...odd.

What Michael said last didn't seem...well...normal. It seemed a little too cold to be a barb. Too...tense almost. And the way he was handling his Pokemon. Granted there wasn't anything wrong with it, but he knew how Michael took care of them. It was more...controlled than usual.

He couldn't put his finger on it.

Linoone was the first to move. He quickly dashed forward running straight at Fearow, claws outstretched and at the ready. The raptor quickly backed away, her wings carrying her safely away from the badger's Slash with Agility. She gave him a few swipes on the muzzle with her talons with Fury Attack upon her retreat, felicitating a few irritated snarls from the Normal-type.

As she gained altitude, she curled her wings to make a run with Drill Peck. However, a change in the air caused her to immediately veer to the left, narrowly avoiding the incoming Thunderbolt. Her eyes widened as she saw that Linoone's fur had begun to lie down on his back as the static charge faded.

Things just got complicated.

Meanwhile, Espeon jumped backwards from Dodrio's own Drill Peck, before priming his muscles and landing another Quick Attack as the bird drew back her beaks. Dodrio simply lashed out with her talons and landed a few swipes with her claws from Fury Attack, forcing the cat to close his eyes and lower his head to weather the assault.

Which left him vulnerable to a Steel Wing that sent him spiraling to the ground at Michael's feet.

"You okay Espeon?!" Michael asked with worry. His partner slowly staggered to his feet as he stared down the three headed bird. The trainer noticed that the gem on Espeon's forehead was beginning to glow in a certain way.

They've fought together long enough to know that a change in their fortunes was coming. They just needed to hold out a little longer.

Dodrio's heads began to snap their beaks as flames, frost, and sparks started to appear in each one of them. Narrowing his eyes, Espeon coalesced his power and unleashed a Psychic attack just as Dodrio fired off her Tri-Attack. The beams of fire and ice smashed right into the powerful force of the mystical energy, but a beam of electricity managed to sneak its way through. Espeon cried out as the lightning raked his body, barely able to keep himself up.

His concern turned to panic as he felt his muscles lock up from the paralysis inflicted by the Tri-Attack. Dodrio almost seemed to smirk as she charged forward-

-only to be seized up by her own paralysis.

Espeon's gem glowed as Synchronize kicked in, passing his condition to the bird.

Which left her wide open to receive the full force of Future Sight.

Gardevoir's insurance finally paid off as the huge psychic force came out of nowhere and slammed into the bereft Dodrio. Such an overwhelming attack finally took its toll as Dodrio collapsed onto the ground with stars in her eyes.

"Dodrio has been knocked out! The score is currently 3 to 2!" Another round of applause from the audience ensued. It seemed the tide was about to turn.

Espeon took the moment to take a few deep breaths as he aimed his gem directly at the sun in the exposed ceiling. Morning Sun kicked in as he began to absorb his rays, strength returning to him.

Elsewhere, Fearow and Linoone were engaged in a melee. The raptor maintained an assault to prevent Linoone from attempting another Thunderbolt, breaking his concentration and not giving him any breathing room. She parried away a Slash with her talons and laid into the badger with a Fury Attack. Linoone managed to parry some of the attacks with swipes of his claws, but such a flurry of claws and sharp beaks eventually did find a few blows land home.

Suddenly, Linoone buried his claws in the ground and began to tunnel his way into the earth. Fearow and Michael were confused. Dig was an Earth-type move. A Flying-type like Fearow could easily avoid it. Why use a move that wouldn't hit-?

Their answer came when the mound of dirt moved away from Fearow and towards Espeon.

"ESPEON! Dodge!"

The cat dodged to the side just as Linoone burst through the earth with claws swiping at empty air. Snarling, the badger arched his back and whipped his body to the side, letting forth sharpened hairs fly through Pin Missile. Espeon did his best to avoid the barrage, but between the paralysis and his bruises from earlier, he couldn't help but let three of the hairs find their mark.

He collapsed as Linoone arched his back for another round. Instinct kicked in as his gem gleamed a brilliant light, blinding the badger. Of course it only lasted a second or two before fading, giving Linoone a chance to shake his head and clear his vision. The Rushing Pokemon smirked at the futile attempt at an attack. Was that really all the psychic could muster?

His smile faded as he saw Espeon smirk in response.

That wasn't a Psychic.

Linoone turned around and saw Fearow charge at him, with mystic energy on her wingtips from Helping Hand. Snarling, his hair stood up as he built up an electric charge. No escaping Thunderbolt this time.

Unfortunately for the badger, Espeon was still standing.

Breaking through the paralysis, he slammed into Linoone with a Quick Attack. It didn't hurt much, but it did throw off the badger's aim. Fearow easily dodged the wide Thunderbolt as she curled her wings and went into for a Drill Peck.

BAM!

Linoone was sent flying as he took the full brunt of the attack. Espeon shared a grateful look with his companion. Quite frankly he wasn't sure how much he had left in him and that was a risky move. Still, something was better than nothing, and their combo paid off.

They turned towards Linoone, ready for the next assault. To their shock, Linoone staggered to his feet, glaring at both of them…

…only to collapse in a heap. Exhausted and worn out.

They felt relieved as Duking made the call. "Linoone is unable to battle! Michael wins the opening match for this year's Tournament of the Bandit Hero!"

The air came alive with the cheers of practically the entire crowd who gave their enthusiasm for Michael's victory full-heartedly. All the victorious trainer was concerned about was his Pokemon, who embraced him in a tight hug.

"Nice work guys. You two were great out there." His Pokemon murmured, indicating he had a fair share in the victory.

"You did great out there Mikey! I haven't been this fired up for a long time," Willie complimented as he recalled his second Linoone.

"You weren't so bad yourself. You almost beat me this time." Michael was being sincere. Willie had gotten better since the last time they fought. If it weren't for some quick thinking, he would've been toast. Then again, the biker was a more experienced Pokemon trainer. He was battling when Wes was around after all.

The two shook hands as the crowd went wild, both of them accepting the outcome of the match.

"Hey...there's one other thing I wanted to touch on?"

"What's that?" Michael asked. Willie's voice did seem to get a little more serious. That wasn't like him at all.

"During the battle, you seemed a little more...intense than usual. Like way more intense. I get this is an important event but...you seemed kinda out of it…"

"Yeah...I've been having some issues. Nothing you did just...well...things have been pretty hectic these past few months."

Willie simply nodded, understanding what he meant. Indeed, if things had been different, Michael felt he would've enjoyed that battle a lot more. Even made a mental note to ask for a rematch in the future.

But he was right. He did feel out of it at some point during the fight.

Very out of it.

Mt. Battle

Torkin frowned as he saw the trainers walk out of the Mt. Battle facility. He wasn't sure about his assignment. Granted he wouldn't think of disobeying the Grandmaster, but recruiting wasn't what he had in mind. Guess that shows just how short handed they were.

Not that it mattered. None of the trainers were really interested in what he had to say. They just gave him the cold shoulder or didn't say anything at all. And he didn't push too hard. Didn't want to compromise his position.

It wasn't even his main objective. His actual objective was to scout out areas to assess potential threats. And that he did. Mt. Battle was crawling with good trainers, some of the best in the region in fact. Virtually all of them came here to train for tournaments or to take the 100 Battle Challenge. If they were properly roused for a fight, a lot of the resistance would probably come from here.

This brought a frown to his face. Most of their recruits were coming from Pyrite Town or the Wastes. Not exactly places to find good trainers. Sure they could shape them up that would put them on par with some of the weaker trainers here. But the elites? Not a chance. It didn't exactly help that most of their elites and admins were arrested.

The Grandmaster did assure them that Operation: TEMPEST would make up for the current lack of manpower, but even he had doubts about that. Such an undertaking was a hurdle even for the Hoenn military. How were they gonna get it up and running? And would it be enough to reclaim XD-001?

So many questions...should he-no. Didn't want any trouble. Besides, the Grandmaster did say he had things in hand, and he's made all the right moves so far. It's doubtless he will do it again.

As he thought that, he noticed a commotion in front of the entrance to the facility. A lot of trainers had gathered and were pointing at the volcano, high above.

Looking at where they were pointing, Torkin could see...a figure of some kind standing at the lip of the volcano. It looked like a Pokemon, but what kind he couldn't tell from this distance. Whatever it was had to have been tough to withstand the heat coming from the volcano's mouth.

Wait a minute...an old story he once heard came back to him. Something about a Pokemon associated with volcanoes.

Suddenly, a mighty roar could be heard coming from the mountain. It almost sounded like a Pyroar on steroids. Torkin and the other trainers had to cover their ears from the thunderous bellow. It was that deafening.

When they lowered their hands, a plume of lava erupted from Mt. Battle's heart, the Pokemon having disappeared.

Torkin blinked...before making his way to his transport.

There's only one Pokemon who could summon lava from a volcano he knew of.

And it wasn't the first time it came to Johto.

A/N: And thus the Tournament Arc has begun!

Willie gets his chance to shine as he puts up quite the battle. I chose his Pokemon based on the ones he had in his final battles in both Colosseum and Gale of Darkness. Same thing with the movesets they used. Figured that would be a neat way to tie the games in once again.

Lovrina has entered the tournament as well. What could this mean for our heroes? Is she falling back in with Cipher? Or is there something more going on?

Mt. Battle is the Battle Frontier of the Orre games. Think of it as a gauntlet where you had to battle 100 trainers to complete it. In Colosseum, the reward was a chance at catching Ho-Oh. In XD, you got a starter Pokemon.

We also get some more insight of what Cipher's been up to. Turns out Pyrite Town's not the only place they've been recruiting from.

And who are these mysterious Pokemon that have been cropping up all over the place? And even more importantly, could they be a herald for something...or someone?

Find out more as we dive into Round 2 of the tournament arc next chapter! Thank you for taking the time to read this, make sure to leave a review, and feel free to follow and favorite if you enjoyed.

As always...take care for now!