Author's Note:
Here it is, and before we get started, I do want to confirm, Skarmory did indeed use thunder armor last chapter. I know it's universally hated but I love it and is genuinely one of my favourite gym moments from the anime... Lt Surge or Blaine who? And yes, I know why it's stupid but that's part of the charm it has. Just wanted to get that in. Obviously, last time we saw Ash fail to get his gym badge and we had some stuff happen with Seviper. We'll get further into that arc soon enough. I will say the short battle in this chapter is pretty lack-lustre but that's mainly because of the battle last chapter and it almost solely focuses on our two leads. I bet the title kinda gives away what happens though. I will say this is arguably the key point in the series. The point where we see our main cast turn from the still wet-behind-the ears trainers into the more intermediate level. Don't expect this to be full explanation on the main focus, far from it, this is simply the surface. We also get a look in on Drake, obviously a court trail takes a lot of set up so this is just to show what's happening on said build up. We also get to meet whose prosecuting him and for those who know a certain show, I'm sure you'll reconsign him. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin!
Chapter Fifty-Six: The Key to a New Kind of Evolution
Ash stood up from the computer as the screen faded to black, picking up the two devices on the table. One of them already burst open and his best buddy materialised on the table, shaking his body before peeking out.
"Your still in one piece?" He asked.
"Yeah," he replied, wrinkles forming on his forehead as he tilted his head to the side, "your surprised?"
"Course," he smirked, leaping up onto his shoulder, "it was my first time leaving you since we met. Guess I should give Serena a raise."
"You don't pay her," he uttered, glancing to his starter.
"I don't?!" He faked surprise with an over-the-top tone, "I mean she puts up with you... someone should be."
"Shut it," he grunted, reaching up to scratch his starter on the head.
"Come on, you know you missed me," he replied with a friendly smile, "besides your like Robin to my Batman... actually Robin becomes Night-Wing so... I know, you're like the Jason Todd of Robin's without me... I've been catching up on comics whilst at the lab, not just tele and movies."
"I feel like I should be offended-" He grunted as he clipped the remaining devices onto his belt.
He ended up switching Dragonite, Duskull and Crawdaunt for Pikachu, Aerodactyl and Kirlia, respectively. When speaking to the Professor, he mentioned her being close, so they thought better now than later, switching with her Milotic. Obviously, that also meant he'd get his best buddy back too.
"Alright, maybe Drake is more like Jason Todd... no, he's deffo the Damian of Robin's... so I guess that'll make you the Tim Drake," his electric type listed.
He shook his head at the antics and turned to see Serena behind with Sylveon out. Her hand was interwind with a feeler and her fairy type eeveelution had a much larger bump than when she left. Swallowing at the realisation of what's to come, he approached the two.
"You ready to go see Nurse Joy?" she asked, "I know the Professor has taken good care of her but even he suggested-"
"I know." He interjected, holding his hands up. "To make sure the transportation didn't have any effects. Let's go find her."
Heading off to the front desk, they found a Chansey-nurse waiting for them. Explaining the situation, the normal type lead them to a specialised side room where they put Sylveon up onto the bed provided. It didn't take long for Nurse Joy to show up with the same Chansey pushing a trolley filled with medical equipment. Explaining the procedure, she had them wait outside whilst she ran the tests on the pregnant Pokémon. It took about half an hour before she exited the room, with her assistant removing the trolley from before. The two of them moved to stand in front of the human doctor.
"How is she Nurse Joy?" Serena asked.
"Both Sylveon and her eggs are safe and healthy," she replied, "and she's close to delivery. I'd say sometime within the next two weeks."
"Thank you," she bowed.
"I would like to keep her for observation for a few more hours," she continued, "it's nothing important but it's rare we use the transport machine on a Pokémon which is this far along. I've taken some blood which Chansey has taken to the lab. I just want to be sure of everything before I discharge-"
"That's fine, anything for her safety," she nodded, "we'll be out on an errand but will be back soon."
"Could my Pikachu wait with her?" he asked, "I mean, he's the father and-"
"Of course," she nodded, "that's no trouble at all. Now I must start my rounds with the other patients so excuse me."
Allowing the head of the centre to go, they entered the room. Bidding the two Pokémon goodbye and reciting what they had just been told, they set off through the centre. He couldn't help but notice a slight skip in his girlfriend's step.
"You seem happier," he mentioned.
"Why wouldn't I be?" she asked, "Sylveon is healthy, and we'll soon have two more eggs to add to our little family."
"You're really excited for them." He smiled.
"Aren't you?" she asked.
"Well... yeah," he sighed, "but with everything going on... I guess my minds been preoccupied recently."
"Everything will work out for the best," she replied, engulfing him in a hug which he gladly returned, "it always does."
"Maybe..." He sighed. "But I also need to speak to you. I think it's time we sat both Seviper and Zangoose down. They need to talk-"
"Is this because of yesterday?" she asked, to which he nodded, "alright, I'll speak to him. But I won't promise anything. You know why he's been quiet."
"Yeah, I do," he nodded, "and I think now is the time for the truth. She is hurt and it reminds me of Sandslash. He only started to get better after hearing what Lance had to say and giving him answers to the mixed-up memories he'd been left with."
"Do you think it'll help her?" she asked.
"I don't think it'll hurt her anymore," he replied. Making their way outside, he took a deep breath of the fresh forest air.
"Hey Brock." Serena smiled as he approached. He couldn't help but notice the Maple siblings stood a little bit back, with the look on the faces, it was clear neither knew what to say, not that he could blame them. Swallowing hard, he glanced back to his two older friends. "So what'cha got planned for today?"
"We're just going to pick up the final supplies for our trip to Lilycove," he explained. Taking a moment to lock eyes with him, he placed a hand on Ash's shoulder with a serious glance down. "I figured after today... you wouldn't want to hang out in Fortree for another day. Regardless of the outcome."
"Stop kidding yourself, Brock," he muttered, "we already know what Steven's going to say."
"Nothing's set in stone," he replied, "I once thought I'd be stuck raising all my siblings until they left home themselves. And look now."
"It's not the same," he shook his head. Turning around, headed out to the west exit of the city. "We don't want to be late. See ya later."
Walking away from the group, he sunk his hands into his pockets. Watching his feet as he walked across the wooden bridge high up in the trees, he didn't notice Serena until she ran up beside him. Wrapping her arms around his.
"Brock said they'll come to the edge of the city to meet us so we can go... and he'll bring both Sylveon and Pikachu unless Nurse Joy says otherwise," she explained, "look Ash, I know this sucks but Brock's right. We don't know what Steven is going to say or do. Why did he ask you to specifically get Aerodactyl?"
"Probably thought I couldn't handle him either," he muttered, "he'd never of taken Metang of someone like Paul."
"Paul never would've had the guts or skill to help stop him in the first place." She leaned up and pressed her lips against his cheek. "Remember you didn't overpower Metang... I don't doubt that Dragonite could've, but you saw he was in pain and calmed him down instead."
"Exactly and losing to Winona only proved I couldn't handle the power," he muttered.
"Ash, you love Pokémon more than anyone and you're a natural empath. Do you really think that won't stand for something?" she asked, "and even if Steven says otherwise, so what? You've gone through this before and you knew Gyarados for a lot longer, I might add."
"But there's one major difference Serena." He sighed, stopping in place. "I never aura-bonded with Gyarados?"
"Aura-bonded?" she asked.
"My dad told me about it, it's a pretty ordinary technique but it's like I connect my soul with someone else. I completely let them in, and they let me in," he replied, "whoever I do it with becomes a part of me... literally. It's one of the few techniques I really do know how to do. Like speech, it comes naturally."
"Who else have you done this with?"
"Pikachu... Sandslash... and you," he replied.
"When did-" Her eyes widened, "the morning before my first contest... in Cherrygrove?"
"Yeah," he nodded, "my dad showed me how to do it with Pikachu at the party after the Orange islands. It took some tries but by the time we beat Drake, we had it complete. Sandslash was the day we battled, and he almost drowned remember. We were alone and it just sorta happened."
"So why didn't you do it with anyone else?" she asked.
"Well after that was when I tried to deny my aura. I didn't want to use any of it," he explained, "so I didn't bond with any of my other Pokémon. Then Lance took Gyarados... and I knew how painful it would be if it was Pikachu, or Sandslash... or you. So, I decided not to do it again anyway."
"Why don't you let Metang out so we ca
"No... I'd rather not," he muttered, "it's hard enough not just running away with him right now. I couldn't help it when we went after Metang, in the heat of the moment my aura just sorta did it... without it I don't know if we could've stopped him without knocking him out first."
"Then we better get going," she replied, "whatever the decision is, I bet Steven will be mad if we're late regardless."
"Yeah," he uttered, letting her lead the way as she pulled on his arm.
"Wait Ash, when you did it with me you initiated it with a kiss," she explained, "with Pikachu and Sandslash you didn't-"
"NO!" His cheeks burnt bright red as his voice echoed around from the implication. Her giggling voice drew his attention as his heart pounded against his chest. "I just need to make some form of physical contact! Why would you even-"
"I'm teasing you, Ash," she uttered, swinging on his arm, fluttering her eye-lashes at her. "But once were done here, I might need a refresher on that aura-bonding thing."
Seeing her wink for emphasis causing him to realise she was just trying to keep him in a good mood. While he certainly appreciates her attempts to lighten the mood, he couldn't help but keep his mind focused on the event ahead. His mouth drying out at the thought of him taking Metang forever.
Ash took a deep breath as they arrived at the edge of town. Just across the field, he noticed Steven stood with his Metagross behind him. Joining the pseudo legendary was some other steel types, namely an Aggron, which he remembered from Granit cave. Along with a Scizor and a Mawile. All four stood in a row.
Swallowing hard at the thought of the impending doom, he forced his feet to walk towards him. Serena's hand ekansed its way into his, giving him a reassuring squeeze as their location closed in. Getting closer with every step, he noticed the steel type champion speaking with none-other than Winona who had her Altaria out with the other Pokémon. Once close enough, the steel psychic grunt something to cause the two trainers to face them.
"Ash, Serena, I'm glad you could make it," Steven greeted, "now before we begin, could you please release Metang? I feel like he should be privileged to the conversation and reasoning."
Rolling his lips into his mouth, he glanced down. With a trembling hand, he reached for the device. Forcing his arm to comply, his heart sped up to the speed of a racing Rapidash with each passing moment. Closing his eyes, he pressed the centre button and released his pre-evolved pseudo legendary.
"I'm not going to beat around the bush," he announced, "my main concern was how you could handle the situation if Metang was too lose control once again and whether or not you could indeed provide the help he needs. Along with what I've witnessed, I've also spoken to some people that know you to get a full picture of what I'm dealing with. Examples being Professor Oak and Lance Wataru of Kanto's elite four."
"When speaking to the two of them, they told me about two other Pokémon you had. Gyarados and Sandslash. Obviously, the fact that Lance had to do something similar was concerning but hearing about Sandslash was more reassuring. From what I understand, anger management is a similar process which Metang would need to undergo, and it seems you've had some great success with that. I also believe the situation between Gyarados are very different, just the sight of you seemed to set Gyarados off after the incident and thus you would've had an up-hill battle to even try to get him to listen."
"Then came your gym battle with Winona-"
"Can we just stop?" His voice was quiet, barely above a whisper with the strain on his throat.
"I'm sorry?" the steel type specialist asked.
"I can't take these explanations, we know you've already decided to take Metang-" he uttered, unable to bring himself to glance to the steel psychic type, "I would rather we rip it off right now then keep prolonging it."
"Why do you think that?" he asked.
"Because I lost the gym battle yesterday!" His voice came out louder than anticipated. Taking he deep breath, "I couldn't defeat Altaria so-"
"If you think Metang or any of the Pokémon you used yesterday were a match for Winona's mega Altaria then your sorely mistaken." He shook his head. "The reason you lost yesterday was because I specifically told Winona not to let you win. Whatever it took and seeing as it took her mega Altaria-"
"Why would you do that?" Serena asked. Glancing up at the champion, tears stung his eyes, blurring his vision.
"My champion asked a favour of me, and I fulfilled it," the gym leader explained, "I will not apologise for such a thing so don't expect one."
"Simply because I wanted to see how he handled a loss. When dealing with a Pokémon with power beyond their means, you will face many defeats in the journey to control it," he replied, "I would've thought you'd know I wouldn't base my decision of a single lost battle-"
"Wha-why?" he stuttered, clearing his eyes on his sleeve.
"Because of what I was told about your Sandslash," he replied, "Lance admitted he made a mistake with him, and you've been a massive influence in why he turned out so well after his ordeal. I was never looking for a trainer who was perfect and undefeated. Everyone loses, even champions. I recently lost a match between myself and the champion of Sinnoh. No such trainer exists. I was looking for a trainer who could truly offer what Metang needed and achieve it with minimum risk of another outburst."
"And I feel like you're just the trainer for the job. Which is why I have decided to leave Metang in your care. It's clear to me that the bond you already share will go a long way in his self-control and getting his inner power underway and when dealt with a loss, you presented yourself maturely."
His eyes burst open as he stared at the champion. Despite his mouth hanging open, breath refused to enter as he let the words sink in. Being knocked over, he found his newest team member embracing him with his massive metal arms. Snapping him out of shock, he blinked and returned the gesture.
"But erm, yeah, what?" he stuttered, trying to get up from the show off affection. "Winona I-"
"You asked for advice on what to do. That isn't a sign of weakness, everyone needs help from time to time and being able to ask is more impressive than suffering in silence," she replied, the corners of her lips flicking up into a smirk, "but that does leave one more issue. Your gym badge."
"I originally suggested she could allow the sixth badge to be handed since under normal circumstances, she wouldn't have used her mega stone," Steven stepped forward. His steel psychic type finally allowed him to stand back up and stare them down.
"But I thought you'd like another challenge instead," she added.
"Is this why you asked what Ash's strongest Pokémon was?" Serena asked, "and why you request he bring Aerodactyl with him?"
"Exactly." Steven nodded. "I thought we could have a tag battle. Us two verses you two. First side to have either Pokémon knocked out loses. And we each use one Pokémon. No time limit or substitutions. What'cha say?"
"I erm, yeah," he stuttered, turning to his girlfriend, "I mean, if you want too, that is."
"I'd love too," she smiled, "but who should I use? I never prepared anyone for-"
A certain purple ghost popped in front of them... turned to side as she looked off to the south path towards Lilycove, "did you miss me?"
"Gengar?!" Serena gasped.
"Who are you talking too?" he asked.
"The readers!" She turned back to look at him with a 'really' look, "duh."
"Not gonna say it," he uttered though grinded teeth, clenching his fist until his knuckle turned white.
"I take it this means you'll be using Gengar, Serena?" Winona asked. Turning around, he noticed the two experienced trainers stood back to make up a makeshift field with their Metagross and Altaria in front of them.
"I erm, yeah," she replied, shaking her head, "sure. Might as well."
"Looks like it's down to you, Ash," Steven mentioned.
"R-right," he stuttered, unclipping the Pokéball from his belt and tossing it into the air. "I choose you, Aerodactyl!"
His mighty dinosaur landed on the grassy field next to the purple ghost. Spreading his wings out, he let loose with a massive roar which shook the ground, sending flocks of nearby birds flying away from nearby trees. His eyes narrowed, scouting the two opposing Pokémon.
"So, you're a shower and not a grower, aye?" Gengar asked, "this is gonna be fun... like a day care!"
"GENGAR!" Serena yelled, her cheeks burning bright red.
"What, I'm not a rat or fairy type eeveelution so the author has no plans to give me an egg in Hoenn," she smirked with a wink.
Glancing past the two Pokémon, whilst ignoring the shadow Pokémon's comments, he couldn't help but notice that both the pin on Steven's shirt and the necklace around Winona's neck shone for a moment. A similar shine coming from under his wing from within one of his pouches.
"Just to repeat the rules for clarification, the winning side shall be the team to knock out one of the opposing Pokémon first," Winona explained, "and let's try to keep damage to a minimum alright-"
"Spoilsport," Genger muttered, sticking her tongue out.
"And if everyone is in agreement then..." She paused. "Let the battle begin!"
Ash & Serena VS Steven & Winona: Aerodactyl & Gengar VS Metagross & Altaria
Ash smiled seeing Gengar leap off the ground, floating straight towards the pseudo legendary opponent. A bag on shadow balls formed over her shoulder with the duel flying types rocketing up into the air. She threw one after another projectiles, saying the word 'bang' with his one which hit the opponent.
The giant armored legs shimmered with a metal coating. Punching the air, Metagross intercepted and destroyed the incoming shadow balls.
A glance up showed his dinosaur moving quicker around the humming Pokémon. Delivering quick hits before moving away from retaliation.
Gengar came to a stop and clicked her fingers. A dark grey Pokémon lizard-like Pokémon materialised in front of her. Her thin body had a purple underside with several wavy, dark pink markings: a U-shaped marking with two additional lines inside on the chest and one on each hip, resembling wisps of smoke. The dark-grey on her head and neck extended slightly onto the chest in a V-shape. She had a slender head with purple, almond-shaped eyes with slit pupils and two fang-like projections on each side of the lower jaw. Two thin, wavy growths on the back at the base of her tail, which was whip-like with a dark-pink underside. The hands and feet each had five long, thin digits on them.
Picking the new arrival up, she pulled and pushed her into some sort of firearm. A small square body with the head as the launching pad. Crayons surrounded the outer side of the outside, made up of the loose flaps of skin. Gengar held her pointed to the sky, with sunglasses on.
"Who here is hyped for Splatoon three?!" Gengar announced.
Charging forward, she fired out blobs of toxic sludge. Each one exploded around the steel psychic type, completely covering the pseudo legendary opponent.
Looking closely, he noticed signs that the status of poison actually seemed to affect Metagross. Frowning, he watched Gengar continue.
She tossed the blaster to the side and pulled out two Remoraid-shaped guns. Landing on the floor, she rolled around beneath the bullet punches, shooting out small squirts of water. The steel psychic type smashed the iron covered body around, but she seemed to roll across the ground, dodging with ease.
"Ya know what they say," she called out, "when out skilled, dodge roll into an easy victory... that's right, I'm calling you out dualie mains!"
Shaking his head, he turned his attention upwards. Aerodactyl tackled into her side, with both of them coming crashing to the ground.
Spinning as the ground came into view, his dinosaur sent their opponent flying. Her back smashed directly into her back.
The two opposing Pokémon ended up next to each other. One flat on her stomach and the other panting heavily whilst suffering from toxic. Slowly, the dragon flying type pushed herself up. Their opposing trainers looked at each other and gave a nod.
"Alright Altaria!" Winona called out, "switch it up!"
The humming Pokémon charged forward; a burning flame of dragon type energy surrounded her. Shooting towards the ghost.
Gengar held up a sign. It read: Help!
Tackled into the dragon rush, the two Pokémon went high into the air. Seeing them disappear from sight, he turned back to the two other Pokémon.
Metagross shot across the field, striking his iron fist down on his dinosaur. Some multicoloured rocks seemed to flick off from the single powerful blow.
"Snorlax style!" he shouted.
Giving a serious nod, he blocked the blow with his wings. The iron leg rebound upwards and he lept forward. Pushing the leg up, he swung his tail around as it covered in metal. Striking the pseudo in the back, he used the opening to push forward.
Lifting the steel psychic type up, he brought him down. Smashing him into the ground, he delivered a powerful earthquake direct into his body.
A psychic field blew him off, knocking him onto his back. Levitating up from the previous blow, Steven's pseudo legendary spun around back to the upright position. Charging forward, both front iron legs were engulfed in ice. Delivering a double ice punch straight onto his stomach.
Metagross went flying backwards from a giant shadow ball which smashed into them. Altaria appeared from the centre of the blast, rolling next to them.
Gengar popped in to the two opposing Pokémon. Sitting on the steel psychic types head whilst holding a pair of knitting needles, making a scarf out of the cotton around Winona's dragon flying type. With both Pokémon pushing themselves up, Gengar popped back to Aerodactyl's side.
"Here Ash," Steven called out, tossing over a large marble with a rainbow colour scheme, "there is this life force which all living creatures have called aura. I just gave you a key stone and I believe your Aerodactyl has a mega stone. Grasp the stone and it'll channel your aura with your Pokémon's, creating an invisible link and if successful then he'll undertake a new form of evolution... as you saw with Winona and Altaria yesterday."
Taking a deep breath, he clutched the stone and closed his eyes. His head filled with images and memories from his time with the rock flying type from the moment they met in Cinnabar restoration lab to flying alongside Lugia in Shamouti. His strong victory against Drake's Dragonite in the orange league and the times he helped with guiding him and their other Pokémon during training. A bright light caused him to open his eyes.
The light crystal cracked and with an ear-piercing roar, his fossil Pokémon shattered out into a new form. His eyes were narrowed and bring green. He was slightly larger. Parts of his body had turned to stone with several jagged rocks pointing out in all directions, including: five spikes at his wrist joints of each wing, replacing his hands, three small spikes along his tail, one on each ear and a long spike sticking out of his chin. The spike on his back and his rear talons had become black and stony. Rocky plates cover the eyebrows and the corners of his jaw. Similar stone ornaments were present on his chest; two small ridges flanking a longer ridge like some sort of armor. With a deep breath, he let out a much louder roar than before, causing a small earthquake.
"It's called mega evolution, the next step in the bond between people and Pokémon," Steven explained, "the PLA have kept it secret for many years after its initial discovery in the Kalos region. The result of a devesting war which was fought over five-hundred years ago. Everyone involved lost."
"Up until recently, only those trainers with great achievement were given the opportunity to wield it. Anyone below the level of elite four were out of the question. A few years back, we we're then permitted to give our strongest gym leaders the chance. More specimens helped with the research side of this field and then... last year Ethan Gold revealed his mega Tyranitar to the world during the incident at the radio tower. It became public knowledge."
"Mr Goodshow was thrilled, of course, but the board were furious. With it out in the open, the president was able to push through his agenda to fully incorporate the practise into the league. Bigger battles sells more seats and all that."
"You don't sound too pleased about it," Serena noted.
"I'm not," he frowned, "it's dangerous and irresponsible to integrate this into official competition without the proper information. Of course, my opinion has been overruled on the matter and each champion in a region under the PLA has been given specific instructions to find responsible trainers who could showcase this new enhancement in battle properly. Which is where you both come in. I've already found one trainer whose partaking in this year's league-"
"Both of us?" Serena blinked, "but I'm not competing in the league."
"I know you're not," he replied, "but I was given three specific key stones to hand out. And given your own history as a trainer... well I wasn't told coordinators or performers were excluded. Just as long as they're properly suited for the responsibility. This also saves me from hunting down another trainer. So, what do you both say? All four Pokémon are still standing so let's finish this discussion for after the battle!"
All four trainers nodded Aerodactyl reacted first by charging forward. Snatching Altaria off the ground, he kicked up, leaving a sonic boom as he dragged her into the sky. The two became nothing more than a twinkle due to being so far out of view.
"Whoa," he uttered, feeling the brand-new strength Aerodactyl possess. Glancing down he noticed Winona holding her own key stone, the lights shooting up.
Looking back up to the sky, he tried to make something out but both Pokémon were too far away. Tightening his fist, he turned his attention back to the others. Gengar was floating around, effortlessly dodging the barrage of bullet punches as if he were moving in slow motion just for her.
"Matrix eat your heart out."
Aerodactyl tossed his opponent as the mega evolution crystal surrounded her. Stopping mid-air, he watched her crack out in her own new form. The energy flowing through his veins reminding him of the massive battles he use to have against Tyrantrum's... king of the sky verses beast of the land.
Seeing her clear, he shot forward once more. A bright ball of fairy type energy came flying towards him. Sticking his chin out, the rock pierced right through it.
Spinning around, a thin power barrier swirled around. Adding in the reminence of the moonblast, he delivered a direct take down in the air.
Knocking the dragon back, he clenched his stone claws into her. The fluffy cotton cloud around her body extended out, engulfing his wings.
With a deep breath, he launched out a dark blue flaming stream of dragon type energy. Glancing at her face over the burning cotton, he noticed relaxation.
"Fairy type," he muttered under his breath. Being hit by a powerful disarming voice which blew him back. Forcing the stone-claws out of her cloud.
Using the opening, he opened his wing wide to create further distance between them. Slowly, the humming Pokémon started to decent through the sky.
Taking a quick dive, he picked up his own speed. His jagged tail shimmering in metal. Using the momentum to shoot up behind her, he swung the iron tail down on her back. Knocking her further and faster through the air, she spun and launched out a dragon pulse.
Crossing his wings over his body, he took the blow. Being blown higher into the air. Shaking himself from the impact, he noticed her attempting to descend.
Inwardly smirking, if she wanted to land then he'd be sure to help her. Kicking off the air, he shot higher into the sky. With a loop, he locked eyes on her.
Diving down at his top speed. His head shimmered with metal. A power barrier swirled around him as the humming Pokémon closed in. Flicking his head upon impact, it caused her to become dazed. Limiting the chance of a cotton shield forming as his stone-claws stuck in, preventing easy escape.
A purple tint coloured their power barrier with Altaria at the apex. Bits of cotton flew off as the ground came further into view.
Closing his eyes, he took a deep breath. The explosion pushing outwards as his feet landed on the ground. A tingle shimmered over his entire body. Peaking open, he noticed everyone looking at him. Downwards revealed Altaria in her original form and down on her stomach, swirls replacing her eyes.
A massive creator which shattered the ground which made up the field. It reached both sets of trainers. Whilst the champion's pseudo and the ghost stood off to the side, the latter with wide eyes. Taking a deep breath, he let out another roar, just like when he first undertook this mega evolution.
"With Altaria unable to battle," the silver-haired man announced, "which makes the winning side Ash and Serena."
Ash blinked rapidly, trying to take a breath but unable as his dinosaur turned towards him. He has always been strong, but this amount of power is... Shaking his head, he ran out over the field. Leaping over the edge of the creator, he wrapped his arms around the spiky Pokémon neck.
He deliberately lifted his chin to avoid stabbing him, as he gently wrapped his large wings around him. A joyous giggle escaping his lips.
"You were great Aerodactyl," he beamed, "and you handled mega evolution great! I'm so proud of you."
"As am I," Steven's voice drew his attention. His rock flying type let him down as he turned to the champion. In the blink of an eye, he found himself back up on the ledge, right next to him. Vigorously looking around, he noticed Gengar to the side.
"You can thank me later, now if you excuse me, I have a joke to rip off-erm, I mean set up," she chuckled nervously, disappearing from sight.
"I've only ever seen one other mega Aerodactyl, Ash, and he belonged to the rock type gym leader in the Kalos region," Steven explained, "when he first went mega, he lost control. Almost destroyed the mountain in which his gym was based. Just like how Metang lost control when you first met."
"But... why take that risk?" he uttered.
"I didn't tell you before because of tempting fate," he replied, "mega evolution connects the soul of the trainer and their Pokémon. Originally, it was believed that a strong bond was needed but that was not the case. What it truly needs is the same frame of mind. The more in sync the two are, the stronger the connection. Had I told you, a part would've been concerned which could've made a difference."
"Still seems like a big risk to take," Serena added, running up alongside him.
"Do you really take me as someone who does something without a plan and a backup?" he quirked his eyebrow up, "had he lost control, Metagross is also capable of going mega. I have no doubt he could've handled him... along with Scizor, Steelix, Magnezone, Mawile, Aggron and Skarmory. He wouldn't have got very far in his rampage. As far as I'm concerned, there wasn't a risk and it helped me fulfil my task."
"Task?" He quirked an eyebrow up.
"Yes," he nodded, "each champion has been given three key stones to spread among trainers in their region. Obviously, they need to be experienced trainers who can handle such responsibility. Before today, I only had given one out. To a young women named Katie. She is one of the favourites planned for this year's Hoenn league and has proven herself in previous competitions."
He frowned remembering the brief interaction with someone of the same name in Rustboro gym. She seemed cold and calculating. While not rude or disrespectful, he couldn't help but feel insulted when she refused to let him witness her battle... already considering facing him in the league.
"Which is where you two come in," he continued, holding out his hand with another larger marble in his palm, "from what I've witnessed over the stay here, you seem like the most fitting options for my remaining two key stones. Here you go, Serena."
"B-but I'm not competing in the league," she slightly stuttered but his gestured with his hand once more. Tentatively, she took the object in her hand.
"It doesn't matter to me, I don't like the idea of spreading it out just because it went public, but my hands are tied by the PLA," he replied, "nothing says I can't give them to coordinators... or performers. Just I need to give them to three responsible trainers, and you fit that role. I'd rather give it to someone who'll never publicly show it off then someone who'll abuse the power and put others at risk."
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"Along with getting access to these powerful forms, we have specific rules in place for those who wield it," he explained, "most importantly, your only about to use a mega evolution in a battle against another user or if your given previous permission by someone in the league. So, you won't be able to just use Aerodactyl to sweep your way through the competition in the Hoenn league, Ash. And being the only performer with access, they're also a no-go there."
"I-I wouldn't have-" he uttered.
"You also need to have your Pokédex's linked up with the professor from the Kalos region whose looking into mega evolution," he explained, "he'll be in contact sooner or later. But I am curious, where did your Aerodactyl get his mega stone?"
"He had it when he was revived," he replied, "why does it matter?"
"Mega stones have a unique residence with the holder. You need the specific stone to match the species for a successful transformation," he explained, "and while yes, a small number of Aerodactyl's were used in said war which produced these mystic objects, it's next to impossible for one to have fossilised along with your Aerodactyl. It takes millennia for fossils to fully form, those lost in the war aren't anywhere near revivable. And the stones did exist prior."
"I might have an explanation for that inconsistency," Aerodactyl mumbled, walking over to them, "but I don't think he's gonna like it. And you'll need to reveal yourselves as chosen's. Maybe it's just best you let him mull it over, it won't hurt anyone in the long run."
"Well Steven, a few other Pokémon we have also have mega stones," Serena interjected, changing the subject, "my Beedrill and Ampharos. Ash's Houndoom... plus both our Kirlia's."
"Your Kirlia's won't be able to use them since it's something only possible for fully evolved Pokémon," he explained, "but I suggest you don't use any sort of mega evolution until they've been tested like how we tested Aerodactyl today."
"How did you know Aerodactyl had one then?" he asked.
"I told you I spoke to Lance, and you've had more than a few run ins with him." Steven smirked. "People find it hard enough to get stuff by him when trying."
"So, what should we do then?" Serena asked, "I mean, you've given us key stones but telling us we can't use them."
"I also err on the side of caution, and suggest you do as well," Steven replied, "but I understand your frustration. I'll instruct my elite four members of this development. They like to keep about the region, see the people so I'll ask them to help prove your other Pokémon's capabilities. We just need time to set things up. And at most they'll do one at a time, maybe one each if they're feeling generous... but this is none-negotiable and if you won't feel able to wait then I suggest you tell me now and I'll find other candidates to give these too."
"No, no, it's fine," Serena reassured, "I was just curious."
"Anything else before I take my leave?" he asked, "I believe a week away from the officer means I'm a week behind on paperwork. Especially with the league upon the horizon."
"I do have one question," he spoke up.
"Go on," Steven nodded, staring directly into his eyes.
"Erm well, how do we reverse the mega evolution?" he asked, a light chuckle in his tone as he scratched the back of his head, "I mean, Altaria just kinda did it yesterday and today but Aerodactyl is still in his mega form."
"You activated it by holding the key stone and syncing up with your Pokémon," he replied, "have you tried the power button? On a computer, it's usually the same button which turns it on."
Connecting the dots, he glanced towards his rock covered fossil Pokémon. The mentor partner gave a small nod and closed his eyes. Controlled breaths amplified by the stomach of the dinosaur moving in rhythm with each inhale and exhale. Matching their breathing, he closed his own eyes and clutched his key stone. Noticing a bright flash against his eye lids, he reopened his eyes to see Aerodactyl stood in creator... back to normal.
"Just be warned that it can be quite the draining process, especially when new to the transformation," Steven added, "in other words, I'd let Aerodactyl rest for a few hours before you try to fly him here, there or anywhere."
"Right," he nodded, taking the device out. Holding it, he faced the rock flying type, "thank you buddy, now rest up."
As his red light absorbed the fossil Pokémon, another light shot beside him. In the creator materialised a massive Steelix who glanced down at them. He couldn't help but notice a mega stone embedded in a head band of sorts. The steel type gave his instruction, and the iron snake filled the creator with earth.
"Like I said, I always eer on the side of caution and leaving a giant creator on the outskirts of a major city, on the direct path travelled by hundreds of trainers would be the exact opposite," he replied, recalling the steel ground type once he was done, "Winona, if you wouldn't mind having Jumpluff heal the plant life."
"Of course," she nodded. He gave a small nod of acknowledgement and recalled most of his remaining Pokémon. Letting out his Skarmory, he climbed on the back and took off, with his Metagross flying beside them. She turned to face them once he was out of sight, "and before we forget, here, proof of your victory today. Two feather badges-"
"Two?" Serena questioned, "b-but Winona, I'm not collecting badges."
"Maybe not but you still earnt it. The challenge was a tag battle, and you partook in it," she shrugged, "so take it. No reason I can see not too."
"Thanks," she smiled, accepting the first badge. He reached out and took the second.
Holding it in hand, he noticed a pale blue shimmer over the feather designed semi-circle with a pointed end. Smiling at the achievement, he took out his badge case and placed it on the second slot in the second row... it's hard to believe he only needs two more badges before he can compete again.
"Thank you, Winona." He nodded with a smile.
Bidding the flying type gym leader goodbye, the two walked back towards the city. With him recalling Metang beforehand. He couldn't help but smile widely, seeing his girlfriend walk beside, hand in hand, he stopped. When she turned to look at him with a quirked eyebrow, he answered her unasked question by leaping forward, wrapping his arms around her, and lifting her up. Spinning her around, he couldn't help himself but connect their lips once more.
Her arms raised up and looped around his neck, preventing escape as they deepened their kiss. Bringing his arms in, he felt the gap between them close.
Soon the need for air overcame them and they pulled back. Resting their foreheads against each other, he glanced up into her sparking blue orbs with her hand sliding down from his neck, lightly clutching into his shirt. He even noticed her slightly lick her lips.
"Not that I'm complaining," she uttered, pecking his lips once more, "but what brought that on?"
"You're the best." he smiled. "What other reason do I need?"
"Well, you're welcome if that's the case." She smiled, leaning up to peck his lips once more. After a few seconds, she pushed him back out of the embrace, giving a wink. "But how about we save it for later... we need to meet the others and get back on the road."
She started to walk away but he reached out. Grabbing her hand, she turned to look at him. Quirking an eyebrow up.
"Am I... a good person?" he asked, "do I deserve this key stone or-"
"Of course, you do," she replied, "and you're the best person I know. You'd jump in front of a train to save a total stranger if you could."
"But what if I set that train down a path, I knew was damaged?" he asked, "the person would be safe but the driver of this train-"
"What's brought this on?" she asked.
"Drake." He sighed. Turning around, he ran his hand down his face. Feeling tears attempt to leak down his cheek.
"I know your upset over what happened-" Her hand landed on his shoulder, forcing him to turn and face her. "-but you can't blame yourself-"
"But it is my fault!" He stomped his foot down. Seeing her wide eyes, with a billion questions going unasked, he took a deep breath. "Back on Shamouti... You know, after the whole... thing. I went on a ride with Lugia. He warned me then that Drake would become some sort of... darkness, after we set paths down different journey's. What's happening now is my fault."
"No, it isn't," she replied. Placing a hand on his cheek to force him to look at her, "you're not his keeper. Drake made his own choice and-"
"If I told him then-"
"Then nothing," she replied, "no-one is able to see the future and he made a choice. Besides, we don't even know what happened. Last time I checked it's innocent until proven guilty. We don't know what happened and honestly, we probably never will. Not for certain."
"But the police seem convinced." He sighed, glancing down to the feet. "He is even being held without bail-"
"Police can get it wrong," she encouraged, "and so what if he's guilty? You didn't force him to do what he did. You're not responsible for his actions-"
"I could've stopped him become... whatever he is now," he replied, raising his voice.
"Living under the strict rules of his brother... unable to make choices of his own through fear of what might happen?" she asked, "to me, that doesn't sound like living at all."
"The person he killed would still be alive-"
"So, you get to pick who suffers and not? In theory, who lives or dies?" she asked, "that sort of talking doesn't sound like the Ash I know. That isn't the voice of the boy I fell in love with."
"I'm worried for him, Serena," he cried, embracing her in a hug. Weeping onto her shoulder, her hands soothingly ran up and down his back.
"I know you are," she whispered, "but right now, there's nothing that can be done now. We just need to keep looking forward and if worst comes to the worst, then we can get the next plane over to Unova. Whatever else we have on the schedule, whether gyms, showcases or whatever but for now, he needs to focus on his trial. If he finds out that his actions have hurt, you or stopped your own league entrance then he'd be just as riddled with guilt."
"And how do you know that?" he asked.
"Because you two are two sides of the same coin," she replied, "and both of you take the weight of the world on your shoulders. Now instead of just hanging around here, let's go found our friends. I bet they're board or worried about us too."
Nodding in agreement, they set off once more. Closing in on the city, they found their friends stood waiting. Max and May were locked in a practise battle which both Brock and his Chimecho were refereeing. Approaching, they saw Pikachu and Sylveon on the side-lines. Moving into their makeshift field, they all stopped and circled around them.
"Ready to go?" May asked.
"Yeah," he replied, offering a small smile, "what about you guys?"
"We were just waiting for you," Brock replied, "but I think I should ask... what happened?"
"Steven let me keep Metang," he smiled, nodding towards his oldest traveling friend, "and we're gonna be just fine."
"But what about your gym badge?" Max asked.
"I think we all need to move on, Max," Brock interjected, "we've been here for a while, and we could all use the change of scenery. I'm sure Ash will-"
"No need, I also got my gym badge too," he replied. Going on to explain what happened between them, Winona, and Steven, even showing off the three-quarter-filled gym badge case. Upon the suggestion, they set out towards Lilycove. "So, Brock, what did Nurse Joy say about Sylveon?"
"She's in good health and no reason she can't have a natural birth," he explained, "she did say that she would need to spend as much time out of her Pokéball as possible. While it's designed to stabilize a condition, it could also affect the timely delivery through the same stabilization process."
"That's fine, thank you Brock-" A poof of smoke materialised in front of her. Gengar shot out with wide, bloodshot eyes.
"I have made the mistake of looking at the birthing plan and just learned what an episiotomy is." She blinked with emphasis thanks to her wide eyes. A cartoonish sound effected added to them. "I'm gonna need another chapter or two for processing. I'll be at the lab if the writer wants to check in... he better not plan on giving me an egg or going through that."
In a poof of smoke, she vanished from sight. He glanced between Serena and the others, unsure what to say.
Drake pushed the door open and stepped into his judge's chambers. Wooden walls with warm red colours decorating made up the interior with his judge sat behind a large desk. Walking into the room, he notice the variety of books decorating the walls with numerous bookshelves. Turning his attention to the only other man in the room, he found his prosecutor.
An older, thin man stood in on the centre rug. A navy-blue blazer covered his pale blue shirt with a tie down the centre. A comb-over of white hair covered his wrinkled face as he looked down at him with a scowl.
"Drake, I believe you've already had the pleasure of meeting the executive district attorney of Castelia city, Jack McCoy." The tall man held his hand out. His eyes glanced up to look at him before he lowered it without a meeting of the gesture. "Now I must ask again, Drake, are you sure you don't want legal representation. Your entitled to-"
"Yeah, I know. I was informed at my arrest," he replied, "I still plan on representing myself. Given my case, I feel taking a no-pro-bono lawyer would be counterproductive."
"I will confirm now that given the circumstances, I'll allow some procedure leeway due to your inexperience," the judge explained, "so onto the reason of our meeting today?"
"I request a true public trial. I want it live streamed and press present in the court room," he explained, "and television coverage as well."
"This is a waste of time," Jack interjected, "section fifty-two of the Unova civil rights laws specifically prohibits the use of cameras of any sort in a court."
"And said law was passed nearly two centuries ago. Many other regions united under the P.L.A have used broadcasted trails for years," he replied, "I think it's time Unova caught up with the rest of the world, your honour."
"And I'm sure you'll tell the defendant that is the decision of the legislator and not a trail court, judge," Jack replied.
"It is when it violates the first amendment," he continued, "which states criminal trials need to be open to the press unless there are compelling and clearly articulated reasons for closing individual trials. This is a high-profile case your honour, they even brought the district attorney himself out from behind his desk instead of sending one of his lackies to try me... that alone could prejudice a jury pool against me due to his own status-"
"I'm not concerned about the press but about the right to a fair trial," Jack interjected, "which means keeping the huppla to a minimum."
"You're putting a child on trial who just did your job to protect and serve your own people for you," he replied, "huppla, as you put it, is a fore-gone conclusion-"
"How do you come to that conclusion?" he asked.
"I'm not a liberty to discuss trail tactics with the man trying to perform a miscarriage of justice-"
"I've heard enough," the judge held his hand up, causing him to stop what he was saying and turn to him. "Firstly, I must say I am impressed with your arguments made. I didn't realise you had background in law."
"I don't, your honour," he replied, "but I'm a quick read and sharp mind. Put together with my abundance of free time recently and you this is what you get."
"Very well," he nodded, leaning back in his chair, "I've made my decision and given the public nature of the moments leading up to the alleged event, as well as the president of historic public trails being performed in the streets when the constitution was still new. I'm going to allow the broadcasting in my court."
"Your honour!" Jack cried out.
"I have a right to a public trial and that's what I'm getting, Jack. Guess this won't be as easy as you originally thought," he smirked at the district attorney. He reached into his pocket and pulled out two pieces of paper. Going over to the desk, he took a pen and quickly scribbled down the same thing on each before putting the pen back and holding one sheet out to the two adults, "before I forget. This is my discovery list; witnesses I plan on calling and evidence I wish to enter-"
"Your bringing in outside evidence?" Jack asked, glancing over the sheet. He noticed the judge doing the same, "if you're going for an affirmative defence then you need to give us at least sixty day's notice beforehand."
"But I'm not," he replied, "unless I'm mistaken, an affirmative defence relates to admittance but with excruciating circumstances. Things like self-defence, insanity, defence of others, statute of limitations, or justification. I'm not admitting to something I haven't done so no affirmative defence."
"Then what's this other evidence for?" he asked.
"I found your original investigation was lack, hence my wrongful arrest," he replied, "there's nothing stopping me from bringing in my own evidence to the contrary as long as properly disclosed before the trail... which I believe we've just done."
"He's right Jack," the judge nodded, "but I don't need a copy son. You might be a little overzealous."
"I just don't want to be accused of contempt of court for not cooperating with proper disclosure your honour," he replied, "consider yourself my witness to say I have held up my end of the rule. You can even compare the sheets to see they're exactly the same if you wish."
"Hang on, you've also got a former gym leader here who resides in the Hoenn region," Jack exclaimed, "he wasn't even in the country at the time of-"
"He's being called as a character witness," he interjected, "doesn't need to have been. And your more than welcome to interview him yourself."
"It's true Jack and allowed," the judge stood up, "now unless there's anything further, our trail date will remain as planned. Now excuse me, I have another trial due to return from lunch in five minutes."
Nodding, he headed out of the main door which they previously entered through. Giving the district attorney a side glance, he added in a small smirk once he was sure he had the man's attention. Once outside, two officers from the prison were waiting. Holding his hands out, they slapped on the cuffs on and started leading him back to the transport van.
Jack McCoy plans on putting him on trial... what he's really doing is providing a platform for him to spread his message.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...