Note: This Arc Can and Will Take Some Graphic Turns. I Have Placed Some Warnings In Between For You. You May Proceed As You Wish.
Xxx
Trouble Arises!
'This. Ends. Now.' The Espeon declared. The entire army of ghosts stopped, looking at the Sun Pokémon with fascination. Misdreavus hovered back, fear creeping into her as she stared at the pink fox.
"Mystic?" Ash called out in awe, staring at his starter. The Espeon gave him a nod, scanning Ash with her sharper senses for any sign of injury. Her eyes settled on his broken wrist and she felt unmatchable rage build up inside her.
"I'll take care of you once and for all!" Misdreavus decided, forming a Shadow Ball. Mystic yowled and reached for her new found energy, gem radiating.
A rough blast of Psychic Energy flew forwards, impacting the Shadow Ball and destroying it. Mystic switched to Shadow Balls, seeing that she didn't have proper control over her ESP yet.
Misdreavus retaliated with Night Shade, countering the balls and sneaking. Mystic felt someone sneak up on her and focused. "Ah!" Misdreavus shouted as raw energy struck her. Mystic's silver eyes lit up and a pink glow enveloped the Ghost Type, freezing her in her tracks. Mystic quickly formed a Shadow Ball, feeling a bit strange channeling that type of energy.
The Espeon shook the feeling off and fired it, scoring a clean hit on the Misdreavus. Misdreavus shrieked as she was sent hovering back, spinning to right herself.
Mystic leapt forwards, using Quick Attack and reaching her faster due to her longer legs, and leapt. Her twin tails hit Misdreavus, the Iron Tail sending her careening into a wall.
"Help!" Misdreavus wailed, looking at the ghosts watching their duel. They quickly fired off Shadow Balls and Night Shades. Mystic looked around and her eyes lit up.
Reaching within her, she found the energy she required and yowled with energy. A raw wave of psychic energy erupted outwards, destroying any Shadow Ball or Night Shade it encountered. Mystic turned to the ghosts, raw energy rolling off her. Her eyes turned bright pink, giving quite the effect.
The ghosts quickly dispersed, not wanting to endure the Sun Pokémon's wrath. Mystic turned to Misdreavus only to find her firing a point-blank Shadow Ball.
Mystic yowled in pain as she was sent stumbling back. Quickly regaining her footing, she saw Misdreavus approaching her and leapt forwards. Mouth open and ready, she bit down on the Screech Pokémon and slammed her down.
"Behind you!" Mystic gasped as a stronger than average Shadow Ball hit her back, blasting her down. The Misdreavus in her mouth vanished, revealing to be a Substitute. The Espeon quickly stood back up, turning around and unleashing another psychic wave.
Misdreavus retaliated with Night Shade, moving in and blasting Mystic with another Shadow Ball. Mystic tanked it, despite the Super Effectiveness, and blasted back with another Shadow Ball.
Misdreavus gasped and Mystic capitalized on the moment, holding her with Psychic and forming a Shadow Ball. Misdreavus struggled against the hold, grinning when she saw Mystic struggle to manage the two moves.
She formed her own Shadow Ball and unleashed it, forcing Mystic to fire her own as well. The two cancelled each other out, giving Misdreavus the opening to hide. "You have spunk," Misdreavus commented hauntingly, her voice coming as an echo. "But that's all you have!"
Mystic didn't reply, sending a weak wave of psychic energy for scouting. Finding Misdreavus's location, she immediately fired a volley of Shadow Balls.
Misdreavus avoided the first few balls hastily but Mystic's persistence worked out and she was struck heavily. Mystic grinned and fired off a proper one, hitting her yet again.
She panted heavily, looking at the Espeon with frustration as the smoke cleared. "I should've finished you the moment you were down!" Mystic smirked at her reaction and formed another Shadow Ball, preparing to fire it and finish her off. "Agh!" Misdreavus exclaimed suddenly, eyes fluttering close as she nearly blacked out.
Mystic's legs failed her and she fell down hard. The Espeon gasped, feeling as if she had been thrown inside a shredder and the pain had been multiplied into a hundred.
She closed her eyes shut, feeling pure agony run through her. Her head throbbed with pain, the headache equivalent to a Golem stomping on it with Earthquake. Her veins felt as if they were transferring acid.
"Mystic!" Ash called out in alarm. Misdreavus grinned evilly, enjoying her agony even when she herself was on the verge of collapsing due to the Curse.
"Die!" Misdreavus cackled madly. "I'm taking all of you down with me!" She took a moment to gather herself and locked eyes with Ash. "You, your entire team, and your friend will be no more! Get ready to Perish!"
Ash ran forwards, grabbing the writhing Espeon in his arms. "Hey girl! You okay?" Mystic's head lolled to the side, blood leaking from her mouth. "Mystic!"
Anpu stirred, only to hastily cover his ears as dreadful notes stung them. Ash let out a strained gasp as the Perish Song hit him. Mystic squirmed, the situation for her worsening.
Ash clutched Mystic tight, trying to protect her. Anpu weakly reached for the last pokéball on his waist and enlarged it. He tapped it against the ground, releasing the Pokémon within.
Misdreavus felt the Perish Song weaken her further as she almost collapsed. What pulled her through was the agony her enemies were enduring.
Viper woke up with a gasp, clutching her head tightly as the Perish Song wrecked her. Besides her, Bulbasaur futilely tried to hit Misdreavus with an Energy Ball.
Misdreavus grinned as she approached the end of her Perish Song. Once she completed this would her enemies finally succumb. The very thought fueled her with determination.
That was, until she heard a battle cry behind her and a very brutal Night Slash strike her back. Misdreavus's Perish Song halted, and she was slashed at repeatedly.
The attacker tackled her with Iron Head, sending her skidding in the ground, and delivered one final Night Slash, stabbing the end of its blade within her.
Misdreavus gasped, a silent moan of pain escaping her as she stared at the attacker. "A… Aegislash?" She slipped into unconscious. The Aegislash pulled out his blade and floated over to his owner.
Ash collapsed on his side, Mystic in his grip. His Grass Types both fell back down as well. Anpu weakly got up on his feet, grinning in relief at the sign of Misdreavus's fallen body, and nodded at Aegislash.
"Great job buddy." He then fell back down, the Perish Song having taken its toll. Aegislash stood beside his master and his friends, looking around for any Ghost Types.
His eyes went to the spot Misdreavus was and widened his eyes. The Ghost Type was nowhere to be found. His eyes trailed all around the floor with alarm, not quite feeling at ease with the crazy Misdreavus still around.
Xxx
Cynthia was eased up in her sleep when she felt distressed. "What's up Riolu?" She woke up immediately. The Emanation Pokémon hugged her tightly. "Hey baby, what's up?" He gestured to the door.
There was a knock making Cynthia jump. She shook off any fear she was feeling and flicked the lights open. "Stay here." Riolu shook his head, refusing to. "Riolu, it's alright."
'It's him.' Cynthia froze. 'That trainer who abused that poor Gible. It's him.' Cynthia got up, Riolu held tightly, and she walked over to the door.
"I know you can hear me blondie. Open the door. I want to talk." His Australian accented voice rang. Cynthia exhaled and grabbed the handle, opening the door.
"What do you want?" Cynthia questioned. Damien noticed Riolu looking at him with scared eyes and made a mock comforting look.
"Why are you scared boy?" He reached for him. Cynthia intercepted his hand midway, clutching it tightly.
"What do you want?" She questioned coldly. Damien looked at her with an impressed look.
"Never thought you had that in you." Cynthia let go of his hand, running her slim fingers on Riolu comfortingly. "Here," He tossed a pokéball to the blonde. Cynthia reflexively caught it. "Gible's pokéball." There was a thunderclap outside, a brief flash of lightning illuminating Damien's face better than the dim lights of the hallways.
Cynthia opened the pokéball and it opened. "Oh, did I forgot to mention that Gible is not inside that." Damien chuckled at Cynthia's scowl.
"Where is he?" The blonde asked, feeling a nagging suspicion. Damien shrugged.
"Can't remember." Damien grinned. "He was in pretty good shape when I left him though." Cynthia clenched the pokéball tightly, glaring at him.
"I swear if you hurt him-"
"What would you do to me if I do so?" Damien snarled coldly. "You cannot do anything to me. He's my Pokémon and by default my property." Cynthia felt her breathe fasten with anger.
"Oh yeah, I just remembered where Gible is." Cynthia simply stared at him, her look betraying none of her emotions. "I forgot him outside the center." There was another thunderclap and the clouds grumbled.
"Outside where?" Damien grinned.
"Wouldn't you like to know?" Cynthia finally had enough. She stepped back and grabbed the handle.
"Rot in hell." She wished and swung the door closed. Damien smirked as the door closed in his face.
"Gible is 20 Miles East from me. The last time I saw him, wild Spearow were playing with him." Damien grinned evilly. "Good luck trying to find him. If you hurry, you may catch his last breath."
Xxx
"Ah." Ash gasped vision blurry. A wet tongue hit his cheek and Ash vaguely made out a pink feline near him. "Where-" Ash swore suddenly when his wrist moved.
"Easy." Two strong hands gripped his comparatively unharmed hand and helped him up in a sitting position. Ash's vision cleared and he looked around, taking in the damaged floor.
He remembered the Misdreavus and its Perish Song and got up, agitated.
Or tried to. He lost balance and fell back down.
"Hey, ease up big guy." Ash looked at Anpu who handed him a glass. "Drink up, Oran Berry juice."
"What happened?" Ash gasped, throat raspy. Deciding to drink the juice first, he waited for his answer.
"Espeon happened." Anpu gestured to the pink feline in his lap. Ash looked down and saw the Sun Pokémon looking at him worriedly. "Misdreavus decided to use Perish Song." Anpu gestured to the Aegislash beside him. "He saved us."
"Misdreavus… is she?" Anpu shook his head.
"She disappeared before I could capture her." Anpu gestured to his belt. "I couldn't risk that group of Ghosts roam the Tower and terrorize it anymore. Would've caught Misdreavus too had it not fled."
"How's my team?" Ash asked, massaging the bruise caused by Misdreavus.
"Skylar has a broken wing. I've bandaged it but she's a sitting duck for now. Viper and Bulbasaur are drained and are resting. Lairon and Charmander are still fresh, and Mystic is also hurt but stubborn." Ash sighed.
"What about your team?" Anpu gestured to Aegislash.
"He's all I have left." He sighed. "I've healed up my team but they need some serious rest." Ash looked at the Espeon in his lap and ran a finger through her shorter, lavender fur.
"How are you feeling Mystic?" Mystic purred at his touch and leaned against him. Ash examined his evolved starter, and winced at the injuries covering her.
"She refused anything I offered." Anpu informed him seeing his look. "She was worried sick for you." Ash took the offered potion and berries and began to treat the Sun Pokémon.
"You're way more hurt than you look." Ash told her, hand trailing over her belly and noting her wince. "These'll heal you for the time being, but I can't do anything else." Mystic gestured him not to worry and bit down on the Oran Berries, swallowing them.
"What's the plan now?" His companion asked suddenly. Ash gave him a questioning look to which he responded. "Only Aegislash is capable of battling. Mystic too," He added, seeing her look. "We still have a few floors to cover."
"We can't fall back." Ash told him. "I can't let Leaf and the League Official die."
"If we continue, we'll be joining them too." Anpu retaliated. "If that happens, what will you do then?"
"We'll have to make sure that doesn't happen then." Ash picked up his Espeon and got up. "Misdreavus is pretty hurt. She'll be licking her wounds off in a corner for the time being. Her team is captured too. I don't think any random ghost would attack us given her presence." Mystic gave him a look. "You scared them pretty bad."
"I don't think you noticed properly but we all have been out for quite a while. Misdreavus would've mostly healed by now. And the only reason Mystic was able to match her move by move was because she was hurt from battling the others so much. And," He quickly began, seeing Ash about to reply. "Your starter doesn't have proper control or training over her new power. She has lost her immunity against Ghosts and is actually weak against them." Ash shut up at that. "She's also hurt and tired. Your point?"
"…" Ash remained silent. Mystic licked his cheek soothingly, settled on his shoulder. "What do you say?" Ash looked at his starter. Mystic gestured to the stairs at the other end of the floor. "We should continue?" She nodded and winced. Quickly gesturing Ash that she was okay, Mystic took a deep breathe.
"When Leaf and I entered the tower," Anpu began quietly. "We didn't have a proper plan. We just stormed in and paid for it too. I can't let someone else take the fall too."
"We'll save her Anpu-"
"At what cost?" Anpu cut in. "Our Pokémon? Ourselves?" Anpu stepped forwards, covering the distance between them. "That Spiritomb over there," He gestured to the roof of the tower. "Is stronger than our entire team combined. It comes into being when 107 souls consisting of serial killers, poachers, harassers and what not merge. You cannot begin to imagine the danger it presents."
"Why think about all of that now?" Ash asked back coldly. "Why not think of it when you damned me or Leaf? Why not stop then?"
"What do you expect me to say?" Anpu hissed. "When you didn't even consider the Elder's words. What would mine matter to you?"
"What about Leaf?" Ash snarled. "The only reason she's in here is because of you." Mystic's gem lit up suddenly, and she jumped from Ash's shoulder down. Aegislash converted into his Defense Mode and stood in front of Ash and Anpu.
The two trainers turned around, finding a Haunter. The Ghost/Poison Type looked at the four with… a begging look? Mystic eased her stance seeing his look and beckoned him over.
"Huh." Ash muttered. The Haunter floated over to her and the two began to talk.
"The Haunter might want to tell us something." Anpu told him. Mystic finished talking to Haunter and walked over to Ash. Her trainer picked her up and settled her on his shoulder.
Mystic gestured what they had talked and Ash nodded along. "Haunter claims he can help us get to the top." Anpu looked at the Ghost/Poison Type suspiciously.
"You sure we trust him?" Mystic's eyes glowed again and she looked at Haunter. The Ghost shuddered at that, hands in the air. "Your Espeon has quite the reputation now I see."
"Good for us." He looked at the Haunter. "Lead the way." Haunter levitated and the squad began to move. "You're not going to argue again?" Ash asked, looking at Anpu.
"No use." He shrugged. "Leaf is on F4. I help save her; I pay my debt of getting her in trouble." Anpu looked at Ash seriously. "If she wishes to proceed with you to the top, that's her choice."
"What about you?" Ash asked him. "You scared of the ghosts already?" Anpu snorted at that.
"I'm seeing this mess to the end. Let's see the Elder belittle me…" Anpu cleared his throat. "Never mind, let's continue." Anpu strode forwards, leaving Ash behind. Ash frowned at that but decided to let it go.
They climbed the stairs, Mystic's eyes glowing continuously as she scanned for any Ghost Types or ambushes. The Eevelution really didn't like the vibe Lavender Tower was delivering. It was malicious and haunting and growing stronger by the second.
It was also messing with her abilities. Shadow Ball was stronger than before, but it also contradicted with her current typing. She'll have to practice a lot later on to properly control her powers.
There was a gasp of pain that rang along the empty floor. Mystic's gem lit up and her tail steeled. Haunter, sensing her hostility, gestured her frantically to calm down. Mystic gave him a look, eyes glowing pink with raw energy.
Haunter floated over a corner, gesturing them to follow him. Ash exchanged a look with Anpu who nodded. "Either he can act really well or he genuinely wants to help us."
"Why exactly does he want to?" Ash questioned his companion. Mystic yipped something to Ash in reply. "Seems legit." Seeing Anpu's confused look, he elaborated. "Haunter is sick of Spiritomb's reign. He wants it to end."
"Doesn't surprise me." They passed the corner and saw something in the far corner. "Stay careful." Anpu told Ash, gripping his wrist to prevent him from running over. "For all we know, this could be another trap."
Mystic shook her head and yipped something again. "It isn't?" She nodded. Her eyes glowed pink and she examined the corridor again. "C'mon." The squad moved forwards, Anpu flashing his flashlight around.
"Wait…" Ash said, realizing something. "…That's Leaf!" Mystic jumped off his shoulder, strolling over to the unconscious Palletian. Ash crouched next to her, checking for her birthmark first.
Indeed, it was Leaf Verdant. Unconscious, bloody, and dusty but Leaf. Ash pulled out a few medical items from his bag and began to treat his friend.
"Ash, we have company." Ash froze at that. He turned around and saw about a hundred Ghost Types all waiting for them. Ash got up, Mystic at his side.
The Haunter with them began to frantically gesture the Ghosts to stop. He floated over to them and tried to converse with them. "Anpu, I'll create an opening. You get Leaf out of this Tower."
"What about you?" He questioned, crouching next to the brunette and preparing to lift her.
"I'll be fine." Aegislash came in front of Ash, Defense Mode on. "You guys go."
"I don't really see how this is going to work." Anpu told Ash as he prepared to create a distraction. Mystic's eyes lit up, understanding her trainer's orders.
"It will." The Ghosts all saw Mystic preparing something and acted immediately. Ash gasped, a sharp pain shooting up his chest, and fell down to his knees. Mystic gasped, her legs failing again.
"As-" Anpu dropped down too, the Curse crippling them. Haunter saw the Curse cripple each one of them; Aegislash included, and tried to bargain with his fellow Ghosts.
The Leader of the Squadron of the Ghosts stepped forward, retorting that it was either the human's death or they suffer. Haunter told them that they could defeat Spiritomb and they could live a free life again.
The Ghosts chuckled at that. The head, a Gengar, replied that it was what he said about that Leaf girl and Anpu and look where it got them. Haunter admitted that he misunderstood that time but he was sure of it this time.
Mystic growled, forcing herself to stand up. The Ghosts all turned to her, Shadow Balls and Night Shade ready. The Espeon yipped weakly, swaying and stumbling.
Gengar told Haunter that how they could fight against Spiritomb when they couldn't protect even themselves. Haunter told him that no one could fight against an entity that strong alone. They'll need our support.
Haunter gestured them to stop their Curse or they'll die and they would lose their only chance at freedom! Gengar replied that they'll rather kill the humans than face Spiritomb's wrath.
Haunter countered, saying that they'll rather live a life under oppression that a free one. Haunter turned to the others, asking whether they wanted a free life or not.
Some of them stirred uncomfortably at that, not quite wanting to voice their thoughts in fear of Spiritomb. Haunter gestured to Gengar, saying that they wanted a free life but he was stopping them from it.
Gengar considered his words for a few moments in silence, thinking. Haunter gestured the others to tone down their Curse which they did. He turned to Gengar who finally reached a verdict.
Forming a Shadow Ball, he gave him a cold 'No' and blasted his fellow away. Haunter cried out in pain, getting up only to get restrained by the other Ghosts.
Gengar produced a Shadow Claw, floating over to the downed Mystic and lifting her up. Haunter struggled, trying to stop Gengar. Gengar turned to him with an apologetic look. He said that he would've loved to team with such a powerful Pokémon but there was simply no chance Spiritomb could be defeated.
"Mystic…" Ash called out hoarsely, futilely trying to reach her. Gengar gave him a pathetic look, readying his Shadow Claw. Haunter struggled, yelling that he'll never forget him if he did this.
Gengar haltered, reconsidering his options. That Mystic was pretty strong and they could defeat Spiritomb with proper planning. It was a long shot and the Leader wasn't sure they could take it.
Haunter hollered, yelling that it was their only shot at freedom. They'll suffer regardless of what they did so why not try to make it better? Gengar struggled, dropping the Espeon down.
He looked at Anpu who fought to open his eyes. Gengar remembered all the kindness and help the Lavender Town residents had given them. They never hurt them-
"Yes they did." All of the Ghosts froze at that. They turned around and saw a heavily wounded but angry Misdreavus approaching them. "The humans woke Spiritomb from his slumber. They deserve every bit of it and more!"
Haunter quivered at the sight of their 'Princess' and even more so when she turned towards him. "Say, you have been assisting the invaders a lot." She closed the distance between them, an ugly scowl dressing her face. "Spiritomb would love to have some time with you."
Haunter looked away making Misdreavus smirk. "Coward." She floated over to Gengar and then at the downed Mystic. "I take it from here. You may go." She told Gengar. Gengar hesitated but complied after another look.
"You guys are getting real disobedient. I'll deal with it soon." Her look promised pain and suffering. "Now, my dear Eevee." She levitated to the gasping Mystic's side. "Time for payback!" Her voice turned demonic.
Mystic spat right in her face, growling that she was nothing but pure evil and only this strong because she was that Spiritomb's bitch. "At least I don't follow a good for nothing, pathetic creature around." Misdreavus spat back.
Mystic chuckled at that, coughing blood out right after. She looked Misdreavus straight in the eye, sparks of energy bouncing off her silver ones. Misdreavus laughed evilly at her rather pathetic attempt to scare her.
"That's all?" Misdreavus floated over to Ash, grinning at his pained look. "Let's see what this bitch can do to your tamer or whatever." Mystic got up on her feet, panting as the Curse sucked whatever energy she managed to muster out of her.
She yipped, challenging Misdreavus to try and defeat her in a 1v1. "I already did a couple of times, or did you forget?" Mystic replied that they had assistance all of the times. This would be a pure 1v1.
"Fine, but agree on one rule." Misdreavus's grin radiated pure evil. "This is a fight to the death, just you and me." Mystic considered that and nodded. If that was the only way to save Ash, she'll comply.
"Let's dance then!"
Xxx
Cynthia had tossed the idea of whether Damien was telling the truth or toying with her for a while before deciding to check it out herself. It was simply too big of a risk to ignore and here she was.
Cynthia gathered her hair and pulled them into a ponytail, shouldering her backpack and picking up Riolu. 'Where are we going Ma?' Cynthia felt his fear and gave him a bright smile, all the while trying her best to hide her own anxiety.
"I'm going to go save Gible." She picked him up and opened the door. "Don't worry; I'm going to be back in no time." The thunderclap outside wanted to prove otherwise.
'I want to be with you!' Riolu protested. Cynthia hugged him tightly, knowing it was too big a risk to keep Riolu with her so late. Wild Pokémon despised trained Pokémon and would attack a baby like Riolu.
"Mama will be back within the hour. Don't worry." She gave him an assuring look. "You be a brave boy and stay with Aunt Braixen and the others. Kay?"
Riolu, though he didn't like the idea, nodded nevertheless and the two left the hallways. Cynthia spotted Damien chilling in the lobby and gritted her teeth. He gave her a smirk and mouthed good luck.
The blonde ignored him and reached Nurse Joy. "You up at such a late hour?" Cynthia handed her Riolu.
"I have something to take care of. Can you babysit him for the time being?" Cynthia handed her Riolu's pokéball too. Nurse Joy nodded. Cynthia heard a particularly loud thunderclap and looked at the entrance.
"It's really coming down." Nurse Joy muttered. "You should wait until it lessens." Cynthia shook her head.
"I can't. It's too important." Nurse Joy looked at her outfit and frowned.
"At least wear something warmer. The downpour isn't going to stop anytime soon." Cynthia looked outside and bit her lip. A plain white shirt and pajamas weren't exactly suitable for this weather.
"I have my jacket." Cynthia told her, pulling it out of her backpack. "I'll be fine Nurse Joy." Cynthia rubbed Riolu's head. "Mama will be back in no time. Kay?" Riolu nodded slowly.
'Stay safe!' Cynthia nodded and turned on her heel. She passed Damien who gave her a salute. She had half a mind to slap that arrogance off his face but Gible simply took more priority.
She do it afterwards.
She reached the doors and opened one, closing her eyes as thunder flashed in front of her face. "Nurse Joy wasn't kidding." Cynthia muttered at the heavy rain pouring down. She pulled her jacket close to her and zipped it up.
She closed the door and ran off towards the East. 'Don't worry Gible, I'll be there soon!' She'll give him to Nurse Joy and then apprehend Damien. Hopefully he'll get what he deserves.
The downpour was real heavy and within minutes Cynthia was drenched. The blonde couldn't see ten meters in front of her. How was she supposed to find an unconscious and possibly Arceus forbid a dead Gible?
'I'm coming Gible! Stay safe!' Cynthia thought. 'Damien better not be playing me. Is he?' As the blonde considered it, someone sneakily followed her.
Xxx
Mystic barely had the chance to move when a Shadow Ball blasted her back. She landed on her side, skidding to a stop. "Aw, did that hurt?" Misdreavus fired off a barrage of Shadow Balls, Mystic retaliating with her own.
They cancelled each other, creating smoke for cover. Mystic felt the Curse eat away at her and cursed. Misdreavus was the last person to play fair.
"Hey there kitty." Mystic yelped in pain as Misdreavus slashed at her side, tearing apart her flesh. She stumbled to the side, cringing from the pain. "You're no fun." Misdreavus complained, pouting.
Mystic quickly fired off a Shadow Ball; one Misdreavus tore apart with a large Shadow Claw. "Spiritomb and his boons can help do the impossible." She claimed, gesturing towards Mystic.
Ghostly winds erupted from behind her, hitting Mystic and battering her. Haunter moved uncomfortably, not enjoying the battle. Mystic blasted forwards a raw wall of brute energy, one Misdreavus dodged with Shadow Sneak.
"Try a lot harder dear." Misdreavus chided, levitating behind her. Mystic swung at her with Iron Tail which she dodged with ease. "That's all?"
Mystic lunged at her with Bite, almost getting her. Misdreavus slashed at her, hitting her with enough force to send her flying. "You're weaker than I thought." Mystic hit the floor hard, gasping in pain. She levitated over to the Eevelution, lifting her up in her claws.
"This is your savior?" Misdreavus questioned, showing the squealing Mystic to the Ghosts. "She'll defeat Spiritomb?" Her gigantic Shadow Claws tightened around Mystic. "She can't even save herself."
Misdreavus brought Mystic to eye level, grinning as she struggled to bear the pain. "Long Kiss Goodnight." Misdreavus giggled. Her claws tightened, digging in deeper. "C'mon Espeon. Scream in pain. Beg for mercy. I may give you an easier death."
(Intense Scene Warning)
Mystic growled, wishing her to rot in hell. Misdreavus scowled in anger and shoved her other claw inside Mystic and tore her flesh off her. "Scream." Misdreavus commanded, eyes glowing red. Mystic gasped in pain before shrieking.
Haunter turned around, not wanting to see Mystic cry out in pain. Mystic's scream rang across the tower, Misdreavus laughing at her agony. "That's more like it." She grinned. "Scream more! No one is going to save you this time!"
Her claws tightened, squeezing Mystic with enough force to crack her bones. "I'm not the Princess for nothing." She growled deeply. "I'm Spiritomb's Chosen One." Her eyes glowed red. "We Are The One. This World Is Ours." Her voice was deeper.
Mystic continued to shriek in pain, struggling as her bones reached the verge of breaking. Misdreavus continued to rip her apart alive, her blood splattering the floors. "I'm not finished dear." She mumbled evilly. "You'll be my personal toy, someone I'll play with daily."
Mystic's eyes widened at that. "Imagine such horrible pain every day." Mystic dropped limp as she paused hurting her. "Tell me one thing clearly and I might let you go." Mystic lifted her bloody neck up, awaiting the question. "Am I pure evil? Am I suitable for Spiritomb?"
Mystic mumbled yes to which Misdreavus grinned. "Let me prove it then!" She continued to tear Mystic apart. Ash, who had just recovered from the Curse since the Ghosts were too scared to even move, saw his starter get tortured.
"Mystic!" He got up on shaky feet and ran forwards. Misdreavus rolled her eyes and slashed him away. "Ah!" Ash gasped, hitting the floor hard.
"Hey you, betrayer!" Misdreavus ushered Haunter over. "Come over here quickly before I change my mind!" Haunter turned towards her and winced at Mystic's condition. Nevertheless, he obeyed the Princess.
"Haunter…" Ash muttered, watching the proceedings dreadfully. Misdreavus grabbed Mystic's face in one hand and squeezed.
"You wanted independence from Spiritomb? Right?" Misdreavus looked at the struggling Mystic. "She was supposed to help you, am I right or am I right?" Blood dripped down, splattering and staining the floor.
"Answer me!" She bellowed. Haunter nodded fearfully. "Good." Mystic began to cease her struggling. "She's," Misdreavus opened her palm and Mystic dropped down, bleeding all over. "In no condition to help you."
Misdreavus turned into her Fake Leaf form and stepped on her torn stomach, pressing down hard. "You're next, mind you." She warned. Mystic gasped as she rubbed her boot into her. "And you," Misdreavus stomped down hard on her. "Never," Mystic shrieked as she continued to stomp with every word. "Ever, try, to, chew, more, than, you, can, swallow."
She stomped down on her bleeding head, enjoying the sick splat that followed. Mystic stopped struggling, head lolling to the side. "About you," She glared at Haunter. "You're about to get punished hard."
(Warning Over)
Ash stared at the possibly dead Mystic with unbelieving eyes. Memories flicked by his eyes, something foreshadowed when he entered the Tower.
"Mystic," Ash broke down, crying. Misdreavus looked at him evilly.
"Aw, I guess I warned you already." She turned to Haunter. "You! You're are going to suffer!" Haunter did his best not to whimper as Misdreavus loomed over him.
Xxx
Cynthia panted, resting against a tree. The blonde shivered as cold winds hit her. "I'm going to get sick real bad." She looked around before opening the location she had marked. "Gible must be around here somewhere."
The rain had actually worsened instead of easing up. The mud, darkness, and constant downpour was making it very hard for Cynthia to endure. She looked around, pushing herself on her legs.
"I'll rest once I find Gible." The rookie decided and continued. She saw some trees and decided not to stay under them since it was thundering above. Cynthia peered around, the late hour not helping matters.
The blonde searched around aimlessly, oddly enough finding no Pokémon in sight. She chalked it up to the rain and night time though a nagging suspicion begged to tell her otherwise.
"Huh?" Cynthia pursed her lips, hearing some flapping of wings. "Something's wrong." She decided. Maybe Damien had lied after all and instead…
…lured her into a trap. "Just like in Viridian Forest." Cynthia realized. The strange quietness, the lack of Pokémon, sudden flutter of wings, all were signs of territorial Pokémon. The blonde quickly reached for her pokéballs.
"I'm damned." She cursed, realizing she had no Pokémon with her. They all were with Nurse Joy. Cynthia looked around, weighing her options. She could either search some more for Gible and retreat or she could ignore her curiosity and retreat.
Still, she couldn't just abandon the poor Gible! Cynthia decided to press on for a few more minutes. Hopefully Damien was playing and hadn't actually abandoned him.
Wild Pokémon attacked trained ones like they had a personal vendetta. Territorial Pokémon were worse. They didn't spare a Wild one, let alone one trained by humans.
"Wait." Cynthia closed her eyes, focusing. The splatter of rain made it hard to hear faint sounds but if she focused…
There! Cynthia turned around, hearing faint whimpers from one of the trees. The blonde headed over to there, flashing her flashlight around. Cynthia focused, trying to find the one who made the sound.
"Ow!" Cynthia winced, tackled down by someone. The blonde saw it lunge at her arm for the flashlight. Thinking quickly, Cynthia quickly grabbed it by the scruff of its neck and held it at a safe distance.
The brown fox thrashed around, growling at Cynthia. "An Eevee?" Cynthia muttered, getting up from the mud and holding her at a distance. Her eyes trailed the wounds she had and winced. "Ease up."
She sat down, putting the Eevee in her lap and throwing her backpack down. Eevee yipped angrily, trying to bite her exposed neck. Cynthia barely dodged, wincing as the Evolution Pokémon dug her claws on her leg.
"I'm trying to help you!" Cynthia pleaded. She brought out a potion from her bag and tried to spray it. Eevee snarled at the sight of it, lunging forward and biting her hand hard.
"Ow!" Cynthia exclaimed, pulling her hand away. "Calm down!" Eevee froze at her tone. Cynthia realized what she had done and felt immense guilt boil up. "I'm sorry about that."
Eevee edged away from her, trying to get away silently. "Hey, what's up?" Cynthia asked, flabbergasted from her sudden mood switch. "I'm sorry, really. I just want to heal you."
Eevee shook her head, jumping off her and trying to run away. Her left foot, Cynthia noted, was hurt and as a result she fell. Cynthia heard flapping behind her and turned around.
Just in time to see a Spearow slash at her with its talons.
"Eep!" Cynthia ducked down, but not fast enough. One of his talons hit her left cheek, its sharp claw cutting deep enough to draw blood. Cynthia winced, touching her wound and wincing.
The Spearow retreated in the trees, hiding easily as thunder cracked overhead. Cynthia gasped in pain as her finger prodded the cut. The Spearow returned for another attack, aiming for Eevee.
"Look out!" The Eevee yipped and jumped to the side, narrowly dodging him. Her eyes narrowed and the Eevee roared, her Hyper Voice disorienting the Spearow and Cynthia. Spearow quickly retreated at that.
"Think that scared him away?" Cynthia asked, her ears ringing. Eevee yipped aggressively at her making her hold her arms up in defense. "Okay jeez. Let me just help you and I'll leave you alone." Eevee glared at her suspiciously, not quite trusting her.
She suddenly turned around and opened her mouth for another Hyper Voice. However, the Spearow was prepared this time and slammed his Wing Attack into her jaw, knocking her back.
"Eevee!" Cynthia cried out in alarm. The Spearow cawed triumphantly and dove down towards Eevee, talons out. "Leave her alone!" Cynthia picked a broken branch down and swung it at the Spearow.
The Spearow squawked when it hit and shrieked at her, using Double Team. Cynthia looked around, finding at least a dozen copies flapping around her.
"Where is he-" Cynthia dropped to one knee when a Wing Attack hit her left leg. The copies all burst forward, Wing Attack ready. Cynthia raised the branch in defense and wildly swung all around.
It stalled the Spearow long enough for the Eevee to unleash another Hyper Voice. Cynthia spotted the real Spearow and swung with all her might.
Spearow squawked and hit the ground hard, the Eevee pouncing on him and savagely biting down on her. Cynthia panted, wincing as she moved her leg.
Spearow struggled against her, pecking against her. Eevee ignored what injuries she suffered and screamed a point-blank Hyper Voice. Spearow cringed at the proximity of the Sound Attack and Eevee bit down on his neck, digging deep.
"Eevee! Stop! You're killing him!" Cynthia realized, shouting at the Evolution Pokémon. Spearow squawked as Eevee tore out large masses of his flesh before falling limp. The Evolution Pokémon snarled, spitting out his flesh and blood.
"You killed him." Cynthia said, staring at the Normal Type with wide eyes. Eevee panted hard, chest heaving as she stared at the dead avian. She turned to Cynthia, baring bloody fangs warningly.
Then, she fell down on her side.
Xxx
"Aw, I guess I warned you already." She turned to Haunter. "You! You're are going to suffer- Ah!" She collapsed on her knees, clutching her forehead tightly.
The squadron of Ghosts stepped forwards, circling her as their Curse battered Misdreavus. "H-ho-how d-d-d-da-r-da-re-dare y-y-ou!" She managed, slipping into her Pokémon Form.
Gengar shouted at her, the species trademark smile on his face. Gengar yelled that he may let her do as she pleased with outsiders but he wouldn't stand her hurting one of them.
The other Ghosts all shouted in agreement, increasing their Curse Attack. Haunter, the one who assisted Ash and Co, looked around in pleasant surprise. Gengar nodded at him, a proud smile on him.
Haunter readied a Shadow Claw, feeling uncontrollable rage roll over him at the sight of the dead Mystic. With a battle cry, Haunter drove it into Misdreavus.
"Ah!" Misdreavus screamed as Haunter continued to rip her apart. Ash crawled over to Mystic, ignoring his screaming body, and collapsed right next to her. Not wanting to believe she was dead just yet, Ash checked her pulse.
"Thank Mew!" Ash exhaled, finding one very weak but present. "I- I need to get her to Nurse Joy immediately." Ash brought out her pokéball and was about to return her when the Leader Gengar gestured him to stop.
"No!" Misdreavus roared, her form beginning to fade. "You can't! Spiritomb will kill you!" The Ghosts around her pressed on, driving all their energy against Misdreavus. "You'll pay! You'll-" Her form flickered before collapsing on itself.
Then, it reformed before breaking apart. Ash stared at the proceedings with wide eyes, never having witnessed it previously. The Ghosts stopped their Curse, panting with effort.
The air stilled, a pressure Ash didn't know he was enduring lifting. Suddenly, the tower lost some of its hostility. The Kantonian's eyes flickered around for any sight of the evil witch.
"Is… is she dead?" The Lead Gengar nodded. Haunter floated over to Mystic, looking over her bloodied form with worried eyes. Ash felt tears rush to his eyes when he saw the pained look on Mystic.
Gengar gestured him to ease up and levitated over. "What are you doing?" Haunter tried to tell him something he barely understood. Gengar reached inside him, tugging at something.
"Hey Ash," Anpu limped over. "How is she?" He asked, looking at Mystic.
"I don't know." Gengar chanted something, green waves rolling off him. Anpu looked at Gengar with wide eyes, remembering something.
"Just like it's mentioned in the prophecy…" Ash didn't pay anyone of them any heed, looking at his downed starter. Gengar raised his hands, aiming towards Ash and his companions.
"Huh?" Ash gasped, feeling his injuries close up. "What's happening-" Ash saw Mystic's wounds stitch back up, her broken head reforming. "Mystic?"
"He's sacrificing himself." Anpu mumbled, looking over himself. Ash turned to his companion.
"Sacrificing himself? Please elaborate." Ash asked him. Anpu nodded eyes on the pulsing Gengar.
"We have a prophecy in Lavender Town. I don't remember the exact words but it speaks of a Storm Tamer who'll enter the Tower and save it from 107 Evil Souls. An Ancient Ghost is also mentioned who'll sacrifice and cleanse himself of any sins for the betterment of Lavender Town."
"And you're telling me that now?" Anpu saw the waves rolling over his pokéballs too, no doubt healing them too.
"It never occurred to me that the prophecy was about this. For one, we don't have any Storm Tamer and the only indication it was for Spiritomb is the 107 part. We only have the proper confirmation now." He pointed to Gengar.
"Ash?" Ash turned around, eyes widening as he saw a properly healed Leaf get up. "What are you doing here?! It's dangerous!" She ran up to him, throwing her arms around him.
"Are you fine?" Ash asked, holding her tightly. "Why did you enter Lavender Tower so stupidly?" Ash growled as they broke the hug. Leaf gave him a sad look.
"I thought I could help save them." Leaf admitted quietly. Ash sighed before pulling her in for another hug.
"Don't do anything like that again." Ash mumbled. Leaf nodded, burying her face in his chest. Ash heard Mystic stir and looked down.
"An Espeon? She's your starter?" Ash nodded, dropping down and picking the Eevelution up. "Hey Anpu, mind filling me in." Anpu nodded and began to tell her everything that had occurred.
"Hey Mystic, how are you?" Ash asked her. Mystic hugged him tightly, the experience clearly having traumatized her. Ash hugged her back, wrapping his arms around her protectively.
Gengar finished sending waves around, breathing heavily and his form fading. He gestured Haunter to come close to him which he did. Gengar told something to Haunter which he couldn't quite digest. Gengar nodded, tapping where one's heart normally would be.
He then stumbled, gasping as his form flickered faster. Every Ghost watched his passing with close attention and sorrow. The Gengar closed his eyes and dispersed into black mist, the mist fading away.
"That's how Ghost Types die?" Leaf questioned as the Ghosts all began to cry in sorrow.
"Ghost Types never die. They're already dead." Anpu pointed out. "They lose their corporeal bodies and wander aimlessly, unable to interact with anyone in our plane of existence until they find a new body."
"Wait, so it's true Ghost Types are former dead Pokémon?" Leaf questioned. Anpu nodded.
"The Pokedex entries are full of mixed myths and imagination. Half of them are completely true while some are straight out fabricated." Anpu answered. Leaf looked around thoughtfully. "I'll tell you two when we're out of this tower."
"Cynthia will appreciate it." Ash mumbled. "Hey Mystic, I'm going to return you to your pokéball now." Mystic looked at him questioningly. "I'll call you back out later on. Kay?" Mystic nodded, still shaky. Cynthia returned her to her normal pokéball and called Viper out of her Luxury Ball.
"You don't plan on calling her out while we're in the tower do you?" Leaf stated more than asked. Ash nodded nevertheless.
"She's suffered enough." The Ghosts finished their mourning and Haunter turned to Ash. "Looks like you got promoted." Haunter nodded and gestured to the upper floor. Ash looked around, seeing the remains of the scientists among other things. "We'll give them their final rights after this is over." Haunter agreed.
"I have a few questions first though." Leaf spoke up. "How was Gengar able to do… that?" She ended lamely. "Normal Gengar aren't supposed to that, are they?" She directed the question at Anpu.
"Normal Misdreavus aren't supposed to talk too." Ash pointed out.
"Spiritomb has created an altered reality on the Tower. This gives Ghost Types a boost and ability to do things they couldn't before." Anpu answered them. "That's why he can manipulate the floor and only make the top accessible for Ghost Types. He gave Misdreavus and Gengar a boon because apparently they were high in his ranks." He turned to Haunter. "Am I right?" He nodded.
"You sure know a lot about Ghosts." Leaf commented. Anpu grinned.
"I've spent my entire life studying and living with them. Off course I'll know a lot about them." He boasted. Ash raised an eyebrow at his tone.
"Flirt with her later; we have a town to safe." Ash told her, making him stutter. "Haunter, will you and your fellow Ghosts assist us?" Haunter nodded. "But some Ghosts will still be opposing us, right?" He nodded sadly.
"We'll take care of them." Leaf spoke up. "Our Pokémon are healed up too." Haunter gestured to the stairs.
"We can use a guide to the top." Anpu told Haunter. The Ghost/Poison Type pointed at himself for that. "Thank you." He gestured it off. Leaf eyed Viper curiously, the Servine looking back at her.
"We have a lot to catch up Ash." Leaf decided. "After this whole stuff is over?"
"I'm all yours." Ash looked at the stairs with renowned confidence. "But first, we have a Spiritomb to beat."
Xxx
Eevee's eyes flickered open and she felt something warm wrap around her. The Evolution Pokémon snuggled close to the stuff, not finding it in herself to care what it was.
Cynthia, clad in a plain white T-Shirt, was shivering as she trudged through the mud and water. The blonde sneezed, reaching a tree and collapsing under it. "I'm pretty sure Damien has played me now." The blonde opened her pokégear, wincing at the time. It has been more than an hour since she had left.
The blonde felt Eevee shift around in her backpack and unzipped it, deciding to risk asking her. The Evolution Pokémon snuggled in her jacket, no doubt tired to the verge of unconsciousness.
Cynthia put her back inside the backpack, realizing that she would be of no use. The blonde decided to head back to the Pokémon Center and slap that smug bastard first.
"I'm starting to sound like Gary." Cynthia muttered, shouldering her bag and forcing herself up. The rain seemed to ease up a little, something she felt relieved about. "Only twenty five Kilometers to go."
The blonde began to drag herself back, her feet aching with effort. Cynthia made an extra effort to avoid the territorial area of the Spearow.
No use risking a fight she couldn't afford.
After covering some seven or so kilometers did Cynthia hear something. "Huh?" She puffed. The blonde noticed a wet trudge in the ground, no doubt belonging to a Ground Type. "Could it be…?" Cynthia dropped down to her knees, deciding to dig up the dirt.
"Gible? Are you inside?" Cynthia called out, grabbing the mud and pushing it away. After a bit of digging Cynthia managed to find what she wanted to find. "There you are!" Cynthia smiled, glad to see her excursion hadn't gone to waste.
Gible gave her a scared look, shaking his head furiously. Cynthia winced at his conditions. Scratches, bruises, and burns littered his body. The blonde wanted nothing more than to kill that smug bastard Damien.
"It's okay. I'm not going to hurt you." Cynthia spoke up softly. Gible frantically tried to gesture something. "Something's not right." Cynthia got up, looking around. She had walked into a clearing, surrounded by trees which looked normal at first glance.
But… on a closer look did Cynthia see the Spearow nestling in them. What was worse than walking in on a nest of Spearow without any Pokémon?
They were waking up, hungry. "Oh shit…" The words slipped out of her mouth. The blonde turned to Gible. "We need to leave. Fast?" Gible shook his head, gesturing her to leave instead. "I'm not leaving you alone Gible. You're hurt. You can't defend yourself."
Gible gave her a look before sighing and deciding to comply. Cynthia pulled him out of the hole, grunting with effort. One look at the Spearow gave her all the motivation to hurry.
"Let's go." She hissed to him and began to run as silently as she could. Unfortunately, wet grass made quite the sound when one tried to run on it.
Cynthia didn't spare one look behind, muttering a silent prayer to Arceus. There was a squawk behind her, followed by a flutter of wings. Her instincts screamed at her to duck which she did.
The Spearow flew over her, narrowly missing her. Cynthia stared at him with worry, back stepping. The Spearow cawed, informing his nest mates. Gible growled and fired off a Dragon Rage, scoring a clean hit and knocking the Spearow away.
Cynthia made a mad dash, vaguely remembering the way back. She could swear she heard a collective fluttering of wings and tried to run away faster.
Gible slowly faded away into unconsciousness, finally giving in to the pain.
Xxx
"The League Official is supposed to be on F5." Anpu said as they climbed the final stairs. The Ghosts on their team all spread out, scouting for any traps or enemies.
"But?" Ash asked, sensing uncertainty in his voice.
"Well, you saw what Misdreavus did to Mystic and what she can do." Anpu began.
"Please don't finish that." Leaf wished, looking around in fear. "I'm already spooked as it is."
"You don't have to do this Leaf." Ash suggested her. "You should leave." She shook her head.
"I'll finish what started with me and Anpu." She declared. "If anything, you should be the one to head back. From what Anpu told me, he saved your butt a lot of times back then."
"He also got you in trouble." Ash retaliated pointedly.
"Which I repaid by helping you save her." Anpu cut in. Leaf looked at the two boys, feeling worried.
"Ash," Leaf began. "Anpu didn't put me in trouble. It was partially my idea too."
"Oh don't you side with him now." Ash retorted. "Anpu and you both are idiots."
"So are you. Or was it someone else about to die on F1?" Anpu shot back. Viper wrapped her vines around Ash's hand for support, squeezing them.
"Like I didn't save you back too." Ash retaliated. "Mystic almost sacrificed herself for us if you don't remember. Us means you too."
"Like my team didn't fight to save yours." Anpu rolled his eyes. "Face it Ash, I saved you more times than you care to admit."
"I'm going to repay that by saving your town." Ash hissed. Leaf got in between them, giving both a glare.
"Don't fight guys. We can fight later on." Leaf suggested. "Let's find the League Official first." Haunter realized something and formed a Shadow Ball, firing it off.
"Huh?" Viper activated Overgrow and leapt forwards, Leaf Blade striking a hidden Pokémon. The Pokémon fled the scene quickly, faster than they could capture it.
The duo felt their anger and annoyance vanish at its escape. "That's a new one." Ash blinked.
"That Pokémon, he made us angry and almost fight between us." Anpu gritted his teeth. "Spiritomb is really pulling all the cards to stop us."
"Let's try not to fall for it again." Leaf suggested. Ash shrugged, looking around. "Ash, I'm serious." She continued, grabbing his hand. Ash looked at her making her look soften. "Ash, what is it? What's bothering you?"
"It's nothing." Ash shook his head and withdrew his hand. "We have bigger problems to face currently."
"Hey, I'm sorry for putting your childhood friend in trouble and then getting you and your entire team nearly killed, your starter tortured to death, but can you really blame me for that?" Anpu began. "I didn't awaken Spiritomb Ash, those damned scientists did." Ash looked at him.
"I don't blame you Anpu." He spoke quietly. "I don't blame anyone." Leaf finally understood what he wanted to say.
"It's about Mystic, isn't it?" Ash looked away at that. "Ash, she's fine." She started comfortingly. "Gengar healed her. She'll recover from it within a few days."
Haunter interrupted them, gesturing to something in the near corner. "We're going to talk about this later on. This isn't finished." Leaf told him. Ash nodded. The five continued on, turning a few corners.
Haunter turned a final corner and winced. "What is it…" Anpu trailed off, looking upwards. Leaf looked away immediately, unable to bear what she was seeing.
"Is that…" Ash's words died down in his throat. Haunter, knowing that Misdreavus did all this alone to her, felt relieved that she was no more. She really was the perfect one for an entity as evil as Spiritomb.
"The League Official? Yes." Anpu nodded. Ash shook his head.
"No, I mean to say." Ash's adventure in Viridian Forest flashed by and who he meant there. "Is that… May?" Ash's eyes looked at her bloodied, butchered face.
Indeed, suspended from the top by chains wrapped around her arms bent at odd angles, blood dripping down enough to form a big puddle under her, various carvings etched into her exposed skin, face almost unrecognizable, was May Maple.
Xxx
"They're catching up!" Cynthia realized, hearing the flaps getting louder. One look at her pokégear showed that she still had some good distance to cover. The blonde wasn't sure her legs would run at such a pace much longer.
Gible was unconscious, no doubt due to his injuries. Cynthia had tried to pull him inside a pokéball but he was still registered under Damien, something that frustrated Cynthia to no end.
She wasn't sure what Damien wanted from her. He put Gible in such a position, he refused to keep him or simply hand it over to her. He was just toying with her from the start.
"Ouch!" Cynthia yelped as a sharp thorn stung into her right leg. She limped to a stop, dropping to her knee and trying to pull it out. "Dammit!" The blonde cursed, wincing at the pain as she removed it.
Unfortunately for her, this allowed the Spearow to catch up. Cynthia craned her neck, looking for the Spearow. "They haven't caught up yet." She realized, getting up and jerking her hurt leg a few times.
There was a caw, and something hit her side. Cynthia was sent flying. The blonde hit the ground, flinching as her left arm got impacted the worst.
At least she managed to save Gible from much damage. Cynthia panted, forcing herself up. The Spearow all caught with her, flapping their wings evilly. Cynthia stared at the numbers, feeling dread crawl up her spine.
Cynthia forced herself in a sitting position against a tree, carefully opening her backpack while keeping one eye on the birds. She put Gible inside her backpack for safety, pulling out a single bottle sneakily and zipping the bag up.
'I hope this is enough.' Cynthia thought, looking at the bottle of repel and a lighter. The Spearow seemed to be waiting for someone or something, judging by their stance.
"No way…" Cynthia gasped, looking at the large Fearow looming over them. The Fearow stared at her hungrily, no doubt finding her tasty. Cynthia's hands shook in fear as she stared at the vast numbers of the Spearow and the Fearow.
'How am I supposed to get away from that?!' The blonde thought. She felt a sudden impulse of support and felt her resolution tighten. She couldn't feel like that yet. Eevee and Gible were counting on her!
The Fearow shrieked and the Spearow got ready. Cynthia tensed, igniting her lighter and opening the cap of the repel. Fearow shrieked again and his un-evolved birds attacked. Cynthia threw her lighter inside the repel, shoving it in the air.
An explosion occurred.
Xxx
'Mama!' Riolu cried out, feeling her surrogate mother be in trouble. Riolu tried to run but was grabbed by Chansey. 'Let me go! My Mama needs me!' Riolu struggled.
"She'll be alright, don't worry Riolu." Nurse Joy tried to placate the Emanation Pokémon. He didn't buy it, unsurprisingly. He continued to struggle. Braixen picked Riolu up in her arms, hushing him.
She growled to him, saying that his Mama was tough and wouldn't leave them ever. 'But she needs me!' Braixen hushed him, saying that she would be back quickly. 'What if she doesn't?' Braixen froze.
She looked at Nurse Joy who mirrored her worried look. Braixen told Riolu that she will return, she was tougher than what he thought. 'I want my Mama…' Riolu was lulled into sleep by Hypnosis.
"Chansey, take him to the Nursery." Chansey nodded and took the Emanation Pokémon away. "Riolu has an Aura Connection with Cynthia, doesn't he?" Braixen nodded. "If he's this worked up, then…" She paused in worry. "She might be in trouble."
Braixen looked at the door worriedly, wishing that her trainer would return quickly. She told Nurse Joy that she'll return quickly, she always has. Nurse Joy pursed her lips at that, wanting to believe it herself. Braixen pressed on, wanting Nurse Joy to back her up desperately.
Because the Fox wasn't even sure who she was trying to convince. Herself or Nurse Joy. "She'll come back Braixen, don't worry." Nurse Joy smiled, trying to ease her. Braixen wished she could feel for Cynthia just like Riolu.
Hopefully Riolu was feeling really anxious and not sensing any pain or distress from Cynthia.
Her darkest fear was true though.
Cynthia was in trouble.
Big Trouble.
Xxx
This Arc is taking a really dark turn, darker than I thought it would take. One or possibly two chapters later we will wind it up and have some sunny chapters for some time, it'll help tone down the rating of this story. This one is easily the darkest chapter I ever published… just kidding.
Shout-out to UltimateCCC, Mark Andrew and Joda-Eragonsson for their nonstop support! UltimateCCC and Mark Andrew are one of my oldest supporters, always there for me! They had followed me from my first ever story in 2016 to now in 2020 with Conqueror. They know how much I have improved in my writing! From uploading multiple 2k chapters in one day to uploading longer, better ones! Thanks lot guys/girls. You're the best!
Response to Reviews:
Mr. Dato: Glad I managed to satisfy some of you. And about Mystic, it was planned from the very beginning. Espeon is my favorite Eevelution :)
Joda-Eragonsson: I'm an avid reader too! We're very alike in that sense XD. Glad to see such readers still exist in this world!
Midnightscar17: Sorry for that. Don't worry; I have tons of stuff planned for May too. Just wait.