The Legend of A Master
DISCLAIMER – I DO NOT OWN POKEMON OR NARUTO, THEY BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTIVE OWNERS.
Chapter 9: Cerulean City Crusades
Exiting Mount Moon was quite an experience. It took some time for his eyes to adjust to the sunlight once more. He adjusted the bill of his cap and wiped off a speck of dirt from his face. This was his last set of clean clothes too.
An hour of walking later, he was at the gate of Cerulean city. He attracted attention with his dirty and ragged appearance as he slowly trudged towards a Pokemon centre.
"Young man!"
He couldn't wait to have a long soak and clean himself of the grime caking his body. He probably had to clean his backpack too.
"Young man!"
"Huh?" his mind finally acknowledged the foreign voice.
"Young man, did you just come out of Mount Moon?" a bespectacled individual appeared in his line of sight. He wore a white now stained brown labcoat and clutched a notepad close to his body.
"If yes, did you find any moonstones? I would like to study them at our lab"
"I'm sorry?" Arion replied perplexed.
"Our lab in town, you know the Pewter City Museum." He obviously didn't see it.
"Uh sir, you're in Cerulean city"
"Wha?! Huh!?" He replied bewildered, looking around before panicking and running back in the direction of Mount Moon.
"Huh, today's been full of weirdos. I wonder how Naruto and Hinata are doing?"
KONOHAGAKURE NO SATO
Today was bliss.
Naruto precariously balanced on a 6-foot tall fence an inch in width. When he was 7, Naruto declared the fence perfect for balance training. He did it every time he crossed this path on the way to Ichiraku Ramen for a healthy breakfast.
"Why do all the girls in our class like Mitsuki Hinata-chan? He's an asshole" Naruto complained as he walked carefully keeping his eyes front. Contrary to popular belief looking down is the surest way to fall.
"I mean he does get good grades but having a crush on him doesn't inspire them to do anything so what's the point?" Naruto rambled on. Hinata just made the appropriate noises at the right time to placate her best friend. She was rather occupied reading the latest medical ninjutsu scroll Sasuke had messenger hawked over.
"At least you don't have a crush on a stupid boy right Hinata-chan?"
That caught Hinata's attention. No matter how much better she had gotten at controlling her facial expressions, the mention of crushes had her face slowly taking on a familiar red tinge. Naruto noted the change in colour as the gears in his head started to turn to arrive at the right conclusion.
"OH KAMI, YOU DO!" Hinata just proceeded to turn redder.
"Who is it, it's not that idiotic Mitsuki is it?" Naruto questioned hotly for some reason Hinata having a crush had his stomach burning unpleasantly.
"NO!"
"Oh thank goodness. Is it Sasuke-kun? He is a pretty strong shinobi?" Naruto's voice took on a thoughtful quality.
"I don't want to talk about it"
"But Hinata-chan"
"I said, I don't want to talk about it." Hinata continued looking down her face hot.
Naruto knew when to push his best friend and when not to. Clearly, this was one of those times.
"Fine." They walked in companionable silence.
"What do you want from Ichiraku?"
"Onigiri and green tea".
CERULEAN CITY POKEMON CENTRE
"A room for one week please" Arion requested politely.
"Of course, young trainer" Nurse joy smiled cheerfully handing the boy a key. He took it and walked towards the phones. He punched in a familiar number and Prof. Oak's familiar face appeared. Leaf was there too as she petted a rather pleased looking Bulbasaur.
"Ah Arion, you look well. Though a little dirty." the amicable professor commented.
"How are my guys doing?" Arion asked anxiously.
"Both your Nidoran get along fine with everyone. Your Scyther is a little anti-social, I think he prefers solitude. He is very protective of younger bug Pokemon. Your Pidgeotto spends most of her time just flying around." Professor Oak was actually surprised at how disciplined Arion's Pokemon were.
It reminded him of Green's training methods more often than Red's. Red and even Yellow's Pokemon were less disciplined and they could be described to have a more carefree outlook.
Arion's pokemon seemed to embody both styles of training. There were actual set times where his Pokemon trained with specific exercises and the moment it struck three PM they relaxed and reverted to a more casual attitude of playing around.
"Right, I'm switching my entire team out for them," Professor Oak just nodded deep in thought before going through the necessary motions. With that Venosauraus, Venomon, Storm, and Senshi were back on his team with Eon and Raijin.
"Your team's move-set is very balanced for a new trainer. I can see why you prevailed against Brock even with only Scyther. Not many trainers think ahead like that." Arion smiled at the praise.
"Also since your there, could you pick up something from Bill for me? I've given you Junior Professor status." That was new information. Junior professors were trainers handpicked by the regional Pokemon Professors to act as field agents. They could carry up to eight Pokemon at a time. Other people with similar privileges were the Champions of every region, elite four members and a few select Ace trainers. Arion nodded nonetheless, secretly pleased at being chosen.
"Sure, he lives near the lighthouse doesn't he?"
"Yes he does, now I have a very excited 7-year-old here that wants to talk with you," Arion just smiled wider.
"Arion!"
"Hey there Leaf. How have you been?" Arion asked the younger girl softly.
"Okay, I think. Papa's still away, and Mama has been really busy. I miss you so much!" Leaf pouted at that, Bulbasaur still resting in her lap.
"I miss you too" Arion replied with a soft smile.
"Tell you what. I'm in Cerulean city. If you want something from here, I'll get it for you."
"I just want to spend time with you..."
"I'll come and visit soon okay, you won't even know the difference."
"Okay, Arion"
"Bye Leaf"
"Bye Arion"
He turned the phone off before heading off to his own room. Taking his laundry hamper he removed all his sealing scrolls and supplies before throwing his backpack into the tote as well.
He took his time to clean himself of all the dust and grime, staying in the water long after his fingers had pruned. After he pulled on Pokemon centre issued clothes and made his way to the laundry room with Eon in tow.
As he fed the machine a few quarters Eon took the time to find a comfy seat for himself. Once satisfied, Arion sat down himself absently stroking Eon's fur.
"Oh I didn't realize there was someone here already"
"Cynthia..."
"Arion..."
Both trainers looked at each other. Arion smiled at the blonde.
"Have you been following me around, miss?"
The long-haired maiden blushed at that.
"Wha! No, No absolutely not. It's just a coincidence that's all!" She stopped stuttering at the soft laughter that emanated from the dark-haired boy.
"I know. I'm just teasing" The girl looked down.
"What are you doing here? I thought you would be at Saffron city by now" Arion smiled again.
"I was training at Mount Moon" Cynthia was a little impressed.
It was odd to see a newly minted trainer take the time to explore and train up his team. She should really stop underestimating this boy.
"Do you wanna battle?" Cynthia teased. Arion tensed a slow grin slipping onto his face.
"Will you use a Pokemon from the Sinnoh region?"
It was moments like this that Arion actually looked his age. Most of the time he acted much too mature and serious keeping his features in check. As a shinobi, it was important to have a face that gave nothing away. But at the prospect of seeing new Pokemon, he always perked up.
Cynthia reached behind her to reveal a Pokeball releasing the Pokemon that was within.
"Roserade"
Arion was on his knees in a flash keeping perfect eye level with her. Roserade looked into bright red eyes and reached out her hand silently giving consent. Arion then pressed his forehead to hers. It was almost intimate as Roserade closed her eyes as well lost in the softness of this gentle trainer.
Arion pulled away to take a good look at her. She was a very well raised specimen with bright eyes and firm flowers. They looked fresh as if watered and was very well taken care of.
"She's beautiful,"
"Thank you, so what do you say?" Cynthia smiled.
Arion was no fool. Looking at Roserade's conditioning it was obvious she was an extremely well trained but more importantly very experienced Pokemon. Only his original four would stand a chance.
"Actually it's my team's off day today. I was planning on doing some shopping. If you're still here we could do it tomorrow."
"Oh, sure."
That's something new trainers didn't do also. Rest was important while training whether it be human or Pokemon, this kid would be one to watch out for.
"Anyways I'm going to explore the town and buy some stuff. Do you want to join?" Arion asked politely.
Cynthia did come here to explore the vast markets and search for a couple of trinkets. She nodded.
"Yeah, I would like that"
Luckily this was one of those washing machines that dried after finishing washing. Estimated time of completion: six hours. Yeah, he could do that.
"Let me put on my sneakers and we can go"
They met back up at the entrance of the Pokemon centre. Cynthia had changed out of her usual black outfit for a flattering blue halter top with Black high-waisted bell-bottoms and black heels.
They started off having a pleasant conversation on the way to the market. Cynthia was drawn to the stimulating conversation on the possibility of the meanings of different shapes of Unown.
When they arrived they began scouting the floors for good deals all over. Cynthia was a little surprised to see the boy follow her to the relics and ancient ruins section. She shook her head, he really was an interesting kid.
As Cynthia wandered away on her own for a bit, Arion started scouring for the reason he entered this section of the market in the first place. A uniquely familiar energy signature had made itself known when he entered the market area. It was similar to what he experienced mining for mega stones.
He wondered if it was something familiar or if it was just a coincidence, to begin with.
After scouring the stalls he narrowed it down to a crafts shop. He squatted to observe each one. There to the end of the shelf tucked away were two boxes where the curious stones were snugly stashed. It was hidden quite well and looking at the price he instantly knew why these stones hadn't sold yet.
The stones were marked for 20,000 Ryo each. He called over the shopkeeper who was a sweet old lady called Kimiko. She had been playing with Eon who had strayed away and been fascinated by the elderly lady.
"Ah, those old things. I found them when I was a young lass in the Kalos region. I tried to sell them for a long time but no one is ever interested in my little crafts shop"
And true enough the stand was mostly deserted. The odd customer looked over but looking at the prices they turned away. Eon jumped on his shoulder and nuzzled into his neck as Arion closed his eyes and stroked the soft fur at the scruff of his neck.
"Well, they don't appreciate the time and effort it takes to make glass blown figurines."
The old lady's dim eyes sparkled with an interest that had not been there for a while.
"Oh, do I have an art critic in my midst?" Arion smiled at that.
"Not at all. I dabble in glass blowing occasionally to make trinkets for my neighbour. She's a sweet little girl and is always so happy when I present one to her no matter how crappy it is. The clearness that has been achieved in the glass, by this artist speaks of countless years of experience and the touch of a master craftsman"
Kimiko smiled happily at the trainer. This was a gentle soul who understood what others disregarded after taking a glance.
"Ah, one who has an eye for detail. I appreciate the compliments on my handiwork. Tell you what, you probably cannot afford those stones so I'll give them to you."
"Ah, there's no need" Kimiko stared curiously at that.
"I can afford it myself, ma'am. Besides, it would be a little insulting if I didn't acknowledge the effort it takes to scavenge for treasures and craft pieces like this" Arion continued keeping eye level with the shelves.
Kimiko smiled at that. She hadn't encountered many people like this in the entirety of her travels. She fingered the Pokeball around her neck.
"Would you like to listen to a few of my adventures?" Arion just settled on the floor, being regaled by her tales. They spent an hour just talking. He attentively listened and added little comments in the middle.
He was a young boy, yet he understood what was important. He was willing to acknowledge technique and expertise while asserting his own place with his own skills. A gentle and nurturing spirit like him would be perfect for this child.
"Shōnen" The boy's attention snapped up at that.
"Yes?"
"I want to ask a favour of you."
Arion stood up at that and with absolutely no hesitation...
"What can I do for you?"
It was this quality that she had been looking for. The willingness to help no matter what might be asked of him. She released the Pokemon from inside.
"AAAxxeeeewww"
An adorable little dragon made himself known. He was smaller than usual indicative of his baby Pokemon status. Arion immediately kneeled to scoop up the dragon. The Tusk Pokemon nuzzled into his shirt attracted to the heat the red-eyed trainer emanated.
"I want you to take Axew on your journey with you" Arion looked taken aback.
"Are you sure you want to give me this responsibility?" He was sure in his skills as a trainer but he needed to make sure that Kimiko wasn't doing this on a whim. Kimiko smiled at his hesitance.
"Yes, I am" She bent to pack the two stones as well as a little Bulbasaur figurine. She held out the Pokeball, which he pocketed immediately and then she gave him his bag. Quietly Arion pressed a fat roll of Ryo into the older lady's hand. She looked a little startled at the amount.
"This is more than what you owe me" Arion just smiled.
"Consider it payment for the stories." Kimiko smiled brightly, laugh lines wrinkled her face.
"I really hope I meet you again Arion Tokugawa"
"I do too"
When Cynthia and Arion met back up, Axew had been returned with the promise of cuddles later.
"What did you buy?" she asked. Arion looked back...
"Just a few stories."
They spent the rest of their time roaming together and trying some of the foods for sale. His watch beeped signalling he had half an hour left. He turned to his partner...
"I got to get back, we'll have that battle tomorrow?" Cynthia smiled.
"Yeah, that's fine."
Arion made his way back, collected his laundry, folded all of it and resealed all the compartments back into his bag. As they all sat together and ate, Axew's head happily bobbed as he sat in his new trainer's lap.
"Enjoying yourself, Draco?"
"Fooodd"
"I'm glad"
Settling against the wall, he took little pieces of food and fed the enthusiastic little dragon.
"Is it good Draco?"
"Yummy!"
Arion pulled out his laptop to further review his findings. It was a little illegal but he had hacked into the Kalos database of mega evolution and was comparing the results. The stones he had purchased today were Gyaradosite and Alakazite, both of which were Pokemon he did not have. Maybe he would catch them later in his journey. For now, Charizaridite X was the only viable Mega stone he had. He finally understood the bracelet his father had left him, as he stared at it, he closed his eyes and smiled.
"Okay time for bed."
He put aside his laptop and settled in more comfortably, Axew resting on his chest. Eon curled on the bed beside him and they fell asleep together.
THE NEXT DAY
He was up bright and early by 6:00 AM. He dressed slowly, taking care to be precise and neat. As he put on his jacket, he clipped on his bracelet with a flourish and then hefted his backpack.
"Ready"
He put out breakfast for his team, then made his way down to have his own meal. He took a tray from the cafeteria and piled on scrambled eggs, grilled fish, miso soup, toast, and onigiri. He also had a cup of orange juice and coffee on the side.
"Itadaikimasu"
Settling at a table, he ate slowly, scrolling through the news on his PokeGear. He worked through his meal steadily and even had seconds. Another tray was placed on the table as one more joined him. He took a sip of his orange juice as he greeted her.
"Ohayo, Cynthia-san."
"Good morning, are you ready for our battle?"
Arion looked up and smiled widely.
"You bet"
They finished eating and found themselves at the opposite ends of a battlefield. Cynthia was excited, what Pokemon would Arion use.
"Roserade, battle dance" and in a flash of light Roserade appeared.
Arion pulled out a Pokeball. On it was a sticker of a bright blue flame.
"Variearies, stand by for battle"
In a bright explosion of sparkles, Variearies appeared. He let out a loud roar stretching his wings.
This Charizard was powerful. Cynthia could feel the heat permeating through the battlefield. Just who was this boy?
"You've been holding out on me," Arion smirked.
"Let's begin".
"Roserade, let's start off with Magical Leaf," Cynthia ordered. Arion took a deep breath and closed his eyes.
"Cut it off with an ember"
Cynthia was struck with how different he appeared while battling. He was only nine and barely five feet tall, he was underwhelming when looked at physically. But on the battlefield his aura was enormous, it made him seem larger than life.
Variearies expelled the small pellets of fire effectively neutralizing the threat.
"Now energy ball"
"Take to the skies and follow up with flame thrower"
With a flap of his powerful wings, Vareiaries flew up and dodged the incoming attack and directly expelled hot flames at Roserade.
"Roserade, evade and use rain dance."
The bouquet Pokemon jumped back to evade the scorching flames and proceeded to use rain dance. Dark clouds formed overhead as raindrops started to fall. Charizard having been through weakness training wasn't bothered by the rain pouring.
"Fire Blast" Arion continued without missing a beat. Variearies expelled a human-shaped blast of fire right at the grass type.
"Roserade, petal dance to counter"
A swarm of petals came up to meet the blast. It exploded, creating thick black smoke. Roserade was busy ensuring the blast was met that she didn't look behind her.
"Roserade, behind you!"
And from the smoke emerged Variearies at full speed.
"Fire Claw!"
Charizard's claws took on a metallic sheen before it was enveloped in flames. Roserade wasn't fast enough and was caught. The heat from the claws stung her delicate plant body. She struggled against the fire dragon, but his grip was firm.
"Overheat"
"Roserade!"
It was a direct attack at point-blank range. Roserade screamed at the intense heat. Variearies then gently let down the grass type, placing her on the ground. The bouquet Pokemon struggled to get off the ground.
"Can you stand, Roserade?"
Roserade stood but couldn't continue. She fell forward but before she hit the ground he was caught by Arion, who gently caressed her face. He had potions and burn heals ready and immediately proceeded to treat the more serious wounds.
"She's fine, just take her to Nurse Joy," He told a concerned Cynthia and they did so.
"That battle was pretty one-sided. How long have you had that Charizard for?" Cynthia asked. At this point, Arion found no point in lying.
"I've had Variearies for four years."
"Why did you have a Pokemon at 5 years old?" Arion just laughed at that.
"Variearies wasn't my starter. I met him when I was 5. When I started my journey, he wanted to come along so I brought him" It wasn't technically lying, it was simply omitting the whole truth.
Charizard was a particularly proud Pokemon, refusing to listen to incompetent trainers. This boy must really be something.
"Well, he is very well trained." Cynthia chimed in.
"Yes, he is."
Cynthia was very well versed in reading for reactions but this boy gave none. It was like watching a loyal soldier under torture. His face and body gave absolutely nothing away.
"Well, after Roserade is ready, I'm leaving."
"For Sinnoh, right?" Cynthia's eyes widened.
"How did you know?"
"The Sinnoh league begins in a month, to register you need to be at least a week early" Cynthia smiled at that.
"You really are something else" He grinned brightly.
"Thanks."
When Roserade was ready, Arion made sure to ask if she felt alright. She enthusiastically nodded and declared that next time she would win. Arion chuckled at that and promised they'd battle again soon. With that Cynthia bid him farewell to board the ferry north. Arion accompanied her to the port Eon and Axew waving enthusiastically as well.
"Time for my second badge"
Signing Off,
The Aura Phoenix.