THE FIGHTING RING
The complete moon filled the night sky with the streetlights bathing the alley our 2 agents were walking through in their Orange-yellow glow. They approached a metal bolted door with a single rectangular peak-through at eye level; currently shut.
"Follow my lead," Rory told Sam who was following behind him. Rory was wearing a black leather jacket with a deep purple undershirt. Deep blue Jeans with a black belt and black sneakers covering his lower half. He had his hair pulled back with the assistance of gell making it semi-shine in the light and instead of his aviators he was wearing some standard rectangular sunglasses.
"You're the boss," Sam replied. He was wearing his trainer outfit, except he had on a grey t-shirt and black sunglasses. Ava was standing on his shoulders as a lookout. He still couldn't believe the mission at hand. A few days after meeting Ash and friends, they received orders from an Admin of Team Rocket to report to Team Rocket HQ.
FLASHBACK
The 2 agents stood in the small office of an Admin. with pictures of Pokemon battling and cheering crowds behind her.
"Deep below the city of Viridian City, there is an underground Pokemon Fighting Ring. Unlike regular fighting, this is where trainers are allowed to make bets on battling Pokemon, be it money or Pokemon themselves. The main source of income goes directly to the owner, who is the subject of the mission."
The picture showed a middle-aged fat businessman with a smug grin and beard.
"This man here is the owner of the ring, and he currently owes Team Rocket since we granted him the loans and the Pokemon necessary. He has since refused to pay his debt and owes us a great deal of money that has increased since then. The mission is clear, take back what is owed to Team Rocket. Take over the fighting ring and acquire all valuables, Pokemon and all, Understood?"
"Yes, ma'am!" They both replied.
"Good, show what happens to those that mess with us. Team Rocket!"
"Team Rocket!"
FLASHBACK END
Sam and Rory were now standing outside a metal door with an eye slot. "So what's the plan? We go in, guns blazing and find the guy? Or do we have to participate in this fighting ring to get close to the guy?" asked Sam "Because my Pokemon and I are ready for either scenario."
"While fighting an army of thugs and pokemon thugs sounds exciting. We want collateral damage to a minimum since we do plan to make to take this thing over completely. Why break things we plan to use ourselves. I will engage in the illegal fights and try to draw attention to myself. Once most guards and patrons have their attention on me you will infiltrate the Boss's office and make him learn what it means to cross Team Rocket." explained Roy as he knocked in a certain pattern on the door.
The peephole opened with a swish and out came a gruff voice "Password"
Roy approached the door and whispered "Password"
A bald and fat thug opened the door for them "Betting or Fighting?"
He pointed to himself "Fighting" then at Sam "Betting"
The bouncer grunted and moved aside letting them through.
As the 2 walked in Sam came to whisper into Rory's ear "It really was Password!?" Roy whispered back "Criminals are idiots"
Sam followed Rory as they went down a dark corridor. Eventually, a light appeared and at the end of the corridor, Sam saw a huge Pokemon battle arena. Surrounding the area were stands with people watching and betting both money and Pokemon. A steel cage surrounded the arena. Above the arena, appeared an observation deck with windows where Sam could see the figure of a man overlooking the arena.
'That must be the boss's room.' Sam thought. He followed Roy as they went to take their seats. "So how does the fighting thing work? You just walk on down or they call you?"
"Register Pokémon, then they put you on a list of challengers and they then make draws to see who fights who. Bets get placed based on those matches and the one who remains undefeated gets the chance to face the champion, that's me. Go start taking stock of the security, bring that information back and then place a bet on my pokemon." he said before going to the offices on the left where a man with a green bookers cap stood behind some bars.
Sam smirked. "Well, looks like someone's finally coming around to us, albeit slightly." He stood up "Let's go take a look at the security Ava." walking into the crowd. "Espe!" She replied.
Blending in with the bystanders, he walked all over the arena and took a look at the security. There was the bald thug at the door who was now standing at the top of the stairway 'Guess that means no one is coming.'
and theirs more of these thugs too, one of each that stationed at a corner. There looks to be about eight of them in total. And by the looks of it...they each have two poke balls with them. Common grunts by the looks of them.'
He looked at the balcony and to the stairs on the left that lead to the main office 'There are two thugs stationed at the bottom of the stairs, but by the looks of these bad boys they don't look like the usual grunts. Must be his personal bodyguards...two pokeballs each as well.'_
He looked up, noticing the cameras. 'They even got cameras huh? Don't want to get caught, better have Ava take care of them with Psychic, and erase the data just to be sure.'
"Guess that's everything thing we need," Sam said to Ava. "Let's go see how Rory's doing."
"Espe." She replied.
Rory walked up to the bookie and leaned against the bars "So what are the rules for the arena and how much is the entry fee?"
"It's a 1000 yen entry fee and to have subsequent matches it's 500. You want to know the rules, pay up!" he said very rudely while using a machine to count the yen. Rory acted pissed off "Well ain't that a shit deal. Can't you guys just let us go in for free?" "Get in for free?! The only thing we do for free is take you out! Wanna get taken out!?" "Alright, Alright sheesh!" Rory said digging through his pockets. He handed the bookie the first entry fee with the bookie quickly taking it and inspecting for counterfeiting. Once he was satisfied he turned to Roy with a writing tablet "Name?" "Matthew" "Pokémon?" "Heracross" The bookie pressed some buttons on the tablet and then sent the information to the big matchmaking tablet at the top with the names. He put away the tablet "Rule's the match only ends if the pokemon is dead or knocked out. You can't pull him out once he's in and you can't tell it what to do. No defensive moves and no poison! We want to see some blood on the floor ya get? The only defensive moves the little bug can use is if it also boosts its offense so no harden, protect, snore shit like that, got it!?" Rory nodded "Alright ya got 5 minutes to get your Pokemon ready for the next round. Would ya like to place a bet?" he said putting a cigar in his mouth. Rory pulled out a few hundred yen "Yeah 800" The bookie took it and waved him out "Alright git!"
Roy left the bookie stand while thinking 'Asshole' that's when he saw his partner walking over to him. He nodded over to a corner making sure he followed. Once their backs were against the wall he asked "So what ya got?"
"Well there are eight thugs that are placed around the arena, each one is in the back. Probably so that they have a better view. They have two Pokeballs each." He looked back at the thug from the entrance. "Theirs also the guy we met at the entrance blocking the exit at the top of the stairs, he's got no Pokeballs with him. Guess that means that no one else is coming. They're all just common grunts."
He glanced at the balcony where the boss was located. "There are two more guarding the boss's personal pad. Personal bodyguards with two Pokeballs each. And look up." Both glanced up. "There are security cameras placed all over. Ava can take them out with Psychic, but we might have to erase the footage, just to be sure. And we should consider taking out the lights as well, to use the shadows to cover us." He smirked. "And how did you do?"
"Registered the Heracross. I need to prepare it for combat, but considering it used to fight in illegal arenas it should be fine."
"Wait. It used to fight in illegal rings?" said a mildly surprised Sam.
"Yeah. Now with how these places work once, I start getting a hot streak going they'll want me to take a dive."
"You gonna take it?"
Rory gave him a 'what are ya stupid' look "When I don't they'll likely take 2 of those guys backstage with me where I'll take them out covertly. Use that distraction to head up to the head honchos office where he probably also has more bodyguards. Keep the collateral damage to a minimum. We do plan to use this place in the future. Alright?"
"Alright"
"Go make a plan in the meantime. Mingle with the people and place your bets. I get half" he said before walking backstage.
He walked into a small cell-like room and pulled out Heracross. "Heracross?" the pokemon said seemingly confused and yet familiar with the surroundings. Rory understood its mood "Seems familiar huh?" "Heracross," it said stomping around the room and then just faced its master. "Well, it should. You're back in the arenas for this mission. Just like back then no one will tell you what to do. You will be facing opponent after opponent until you get to the champion and do what you do best. Beat them to the dirt." The giant beetle stomped its foot and slammed his claws together "HERA" Rory nodded "Good. Also no defensive moves. So no harden or protect I know I taught you them but no usage." "Her Heracross," it said in confirmation.
After 5 minutes the arena was cleared and the lights started as a new round began.
"Alright, Ladies and gentlemen! Starting our round is an old face Richards Arcanine!" from one of the sides entrances out dashed the giant flaming dog pokemon "Arc Arcenine" the crowd cheered for the old pokemon.
"And here comes a newcomer to the Arena. Mathews Heracross!" from the left side entrance out came the beetle stomping its way to the arena making little tremors with each strong step. It leapt into the arena and the metal cage fell in place around them.
Sam, who had seated himself at the very top of the stands, had just made a bet. "You sure you wanna make this bet?" The bookie asked. "Of course I do, I wouldn't have made it either wise."
The bookie shrugged. "Well alright, it's your money." He said as he walked off. Sam smirked as he watched him go. "Those winnings and the money after this mission, we'll be swimming in cash!" He said to Ava. "Now remember the plan, use Psychic to take out the camera's, but make sure no one notices. And the lights too, we'll use the cover of darkness to sneak up to the boss's room."
"Espe!" Ava nodded.
He brought out a poke-ball. "And just to be on the safe side." He quietly opened it up and out came Vaea, his Sneasel. "Sneasel!"
"Alright Vaea, see all those bodyguards around the arena? I want you to sneak around them and take their Pokeballs and bring them to me. Those guys will have a bone to pick with Rory and he's going to need the extra help, so don't get caught alright?"
"Sneasel!" She replied with a nod.
"Good!" Sam said. Then they saw Heracross and Arcanine enter the arena. "Their starting, you both know what to do!"
"Snea/Espe!" They both replied and dashed off, using the shadows to cover them. Sam smirked as he brought out a bag of popcorn. "Time to Enjoy the show!"
Rory was right beside the ring like the Arcenine's owner, Richard, who was smugly already counting his money over this victory. Roy noticed the guys attitude 'He may be a veteran, but he has never faced against a champion. Make this a quick one Heracross'.
The 2 pokemon were staring each other down waiting for the bell to ring. Heracross had been in this kind of position before, facing against something he has a natural weakness to, but he wasn't a former champion for nothing as he bulked up. Their muscles were tense ready to jump at the first sound of the bell. The roars of the crowd drifted to nothing as they only focused on each other. The Arcenine, even with its experience, gave away its attack as fire began filling its mouth.
DING
"NINE," the dog said spitting its flamethrower.
Heracross was ready as he dodged right then forward. Even though he wasn't a runner in any sense of the word the beetles legs were powerful from carrying its heavy body. This meant it could leap and dash at incredible speed and long distances that the Arcanine was not expecting as with 2 quick dashes Heracross was right next to him ready with a focus punch. The dog just barely dodged as it leapt back and began readying another flamethrower, but it was too late. As with Heracross' extreme fighting instincts, it followed the Arcenines back dash. He uppercutted the dog's mouth shut before it could spit fire, lifting it into the air. Heracross did not waste a moment as it grabbed it from the air and seismic tossed it back down to the arena floor.
This whole exchange took less than 10 seconds in real-time. People didn't know a pokemon of that size could be that quick and agile only having the advantage of making Roy smirk at their shocked faces. Heracross slowly got up with a completely knocked out Arcenine bleeding from its mouth beneath it. They stood quiet and then cheered, "HERA CROSS. HERA CROSS. HERA CROSS!" the Pokemon raised its arms at their praise.
Sam with its popcorn was munching away "Wow... he does not disappoint... that Heracross sure ain't no pushover"
Thus began the Beetles rampage.
"Matthews Heracross vs Archers Hitmonchan!"
The 2 battled up close using close combat. The boxing styled pokemon was indeed faster than Heracross and danced circles around it; its punches were still fairly weak and one can only dodge for so much. Heracross bided his time looking for a pattern in the Pokemons movement before landing a quick Focus punch making it a one-hit K.O as it was slammed into the metal cage by the mere force of the punch.
"Matthews Heracross vs Lynds Machamp!"
Machamp got into its favorite fight; grappling. With their bulk ups, they were almost evenly matched, almost. They struggled moving back and forth each trying to take the advantage hold on their opponent. However slowly Heracross was winning the power match; pushing it back. The 4 armed pokemon was pushed almost to the cage's wall where he knew if he were to lose his footing it would be over. So it made a last-ditch attempt and threw off the hold to grab the Pokemons horn and gain leverage; wrong choice. It left the 4 armed Pokemons midsection open for attack. Heracross did not waste the opportunity as it used bullet seed. Machamp put his hands up in defence which got booed by the audience and now left himself open for a Megahorn. "Heracross!" it said charging into the Machamp stabbing it in the gut with its horn. "MA Champ!" it cried in pain as it was lifted by the giant beetle. Heracross slammed it repeatedly into the metal cage "Champ! Champ! Champ! Ma!" it cried with repeated slams. Once Heracross was finished with its toy it geared up for one final thrust "HERA" and drilled it out of the cage "Cross!"
"Last match to challenge your champion. The former champion Conner Slaking! Vs the newest and quickly rising star Matthew's Heracross!"
It was a battle of 2 goliaths now. The former champion, Slaking, fighting to take back its spot as king of the ring. The other, also a former champion, but only by retirement. Never having felt defeat it was happy for the rush of the feeling he would get back at home and become champion again.
Roy was then approached by the Slaking's owner, Conner, and he looked like your typical bad guy. A black trucker hat covered his eyes and messy hair, a white wife beater and red jacket were over his beer gut and ripped jeans with black shoes completed the ensemble. Roy visibly tensed being of the man 'What does he want' he thought but said nothing. Conner noticed this and put his hands up "Not here to start trouble, kiddo." Roy untensed his stance but still monitored Conners movements. Connor dropped his hand once the air was cleared "Just here to warn ya. This ain't a place for kids. That Heracross while good is facing a champion and it's better you take him out." he said in a grave voice "Thanks for the info." Was Roy's curt reply. Conner just turned away "Don say I didn't warn ya"
Roy looked at the Slaking 'Hmm since he was champion. The current one must be really strong, might actually be a challenge for the Pokemon' then his eyes landed on his belly and he saw a giant 4 finger handprint stamped their 'Strong enough to do that huh, interesting' he mused.
The 2 Pokemon stood at their respective sides and readied their approaches, looking at each other having the mental battle already start in their heads.
DING-DING
They dashed in and exchanged focus punches knocking each other back. They skidded to a stop back at the same spots with the crowd cheering the exchange. Slaking beat his chest and roared hidden power with Heracross shooting Bullet seed in kind. The attacks exploded in a cloud of smoke blocking their respective sight. Slaking prepared his focus punch and was about to jump in, but Heracross beat him to the punch. As it jumped out of the smoke with Drill horn at the ready, Slaking, counter to the stereotype, didn't slack and managed to just dodge it. Slaking looked back at the Heracross and saw that its horn had drilled through the metal cage, counting its blessing he was able to dodge it in time. Heracross took his horn out of the wall and mean looked at the Slaking preparing both of his Focus punches. "Hera Hera" 'Nice dodge' "Sla Slak" 'Shut up' they dashed back in and did close combat with duel punches. They dodge and countered each others hits making fierce sounds. Heracross knew its weakness, its gut due to that handprint, but Slaking also knew that and was guarding it with all its might. This would be his undoing as Heracross Feint attacked its gut leaving his head wide open, Heracross managed a cross-uppercut combo smacking him with his horn for good measure. Slaking shook its head and recovered its footing, lifting his right leg and causing an earthquake on the arena making it wobble and shake. While Heracross tried to regain its footing Slaking tackled him pushing them both against the wall where he pinned him and delivered some devastating Focus punches "Hera! Hera! Hera!" Slaking reared back and prepared his finishing blow Fire Punch.
Rory looked on in wonder and slight shock 'It seems this is it for Heracross. I thought for sure it was stronger than this Slaking. Oh well, should probably get a new powerhouse..." then his eyes visibly grew in outright shock.
Right before Fire Punch hit Heracross used reversal using Slaking's momentum and power flipped the situation. Storing all the damage the focus punches he took he used Counter and dealt out one last punch to its chest. BAM The cage slowly bulged out from the attack and then "He... ra... CROSS" putting the last bit of power into the punch pushing it finally through the wall and out of the arena. "HERA CROSS HERA CROSS HERA CROSS"
Roy smirked "Well count me wrong," he said out loud this time.
That ended its rampage and thus was his final match with the champion of this particular fighting ring next.
Sam clapped as he saw Heracross defeat the fellow fighting type Pokemon in the match. With these constant victory's, he had received a multitude of winnings. "Just wait until I cash in these tickets!" He said as he looked at his. Just then he felt something tugging on his shirt, he looked down and saw Vaea and Ava had returned.
"Oh, there you two are. I trust you both did your jobs?"
"Sneasel!/Espe!" They both replied. Vea revealed in her arms that she had 16 Pokeballs in their shrunken storage form, and Ava levitated a crumpled up lens.
"Great job you two!" He said as he petted them on their heads. He turned to look at the field. "Hmm...looks like he's getting some attention." He turned to the lights and the bodyguards. "Almost showtime girls...but until then let's enjoy the final match!"
Back in the cages, Roy was taking care of his Heracross from its recent rumble with the Sla(former)king. Roy gave it the special blend of Leppa and Sitrus berries with it downing a hyper potion so the berries go down smoother. Roy sat back and watched it eat with a thinking pose "... The next opponent is stronger than that Slaking." Heracross stopped eating and turned towards its current master "Don't try exchanging blows with this one. Use your leaps and dashes. We still need you after the battle. Got it." The bug nodded "Hera" but before it started eating again 2 men came into the room.
The "security" from the ring boss approached them with arms crossed "Glad for you to have made it this far. That was a nice show there. However don't even think you have a chance against the champ, or you might regret it, alright" said the thugs. Roy got the message "Alright, but Team Rocket doesn't lose" Rory said with a grin. That got the thug's attention "Team rocket!?" they yelled not noticing a certain Gengar coming out of the shadows behind them "You're Team Roc-!" their heads were slammed together by the ghost type. Roy got up from his seat "Better give the signal to Sam. Once this match ends all of them will be working for us."
Sam, was still sitting in the upper corner as he waited for the next match to start. Sitting next to him, Ava and Vaea were both snacking on his popcorn, both heads reaching inside for the yummy treats. "I'll be sure to get you girls the best treats after we finish our job." He said as he played with the Pokeballs that Vaea had taken and looked at them with the light shining on them. "Cause with this, combined with our winnings, we'll be set for a long while. I wonder if we'll get a bonus from taking all the Pokemon that the boss gave them...still can't believe he was this generous. But then again...he was to me."
Memory's flashed in his head as a young boy with dirty and raggy clothing, holding a young injured eve, were approached by a man in a dark business suit with an R emblem on his shirt,
He was interrupted as he saw Rory in the cages coming out and taking a seat next to Sam. Sam, didn't take his eyes off the poke-ball, besides a glance. "Well, someone's been on a hot streak today." He said with a small smile "Did you meet any new fans?"
"I don't have times for fans... How much did you bet on this match?" asked Roy.
Sam smiled at that "The odds are like 30 to 1 against your Heracross, so I bet ALL OF OUR WINNINGS!" he exclaimed.
Roy pinched the bridge of his nose "That's my money too!"
Sam laughed at his partners' annoyance and patted his back "Come on man! Your Heracross is a beast! He's unbeatable have some confidence in him."
Rory just sighed in defeat he couldn't get that money back even if he wanted to, so it was all riding on the Heracross. He stared down at the ring 'My parents told me you were an undefeated champion. The best of the best, Are you worthy of being my Pokémon or will I have to replace you with this rings champion... prove me your worth Heracross' he said in his head. "Once either pokemon drops that's our cue to go in. You go to the office. My team will create chaos."
Sam smirked. "Sounds easy enough. I'll have Ava cut off the lights after you win, it'll give me the element of surprise." Ava perked her head from the bag at the mention of her name. "Espe!" She agreed.
"You believe Heracross will win?" Rory asked.
"Of course it will, as long as you believe in your Pokemon. That's how my Pokemon won battles." He put the poke-ball back in his bag. "Heads up, the thugs don't have any of their pokemon with them so they shouldn't give you any trouble."
Rory raised his eyebrows. "How do you know that?"
Sam was about to reply but then the announcement for the next match rang out through the arena. "Better go and cheer on your Heracross." Rory just grunted and left. Sam leaned back and reached in the bag for the Popcorn. "Alright Heracross, show your trainer what you're made of!"
"Alright folks, it's time for the final battle! These two Pokemon will duke it out for the title of Champion, so who will come out on top?! To the left we have the rising star! The battled bug! Veracious veteran! Give it up for Mathew and his Heracross!"
The stadium erupted in applaud as Heracross strode to his side of the field, flexing its muscles. "Yeah, kick-ass Heracross!" Sam shouted.
"Espeon!" "Sneasel!" His Pokemon cheered right next to him.
"And to the right, we have the king of the ring! The sumo soldier! The ferocious fighter! The undefeated champion, give it up for Vincent, and his Hariyama!" The cheers grew louder as the light shined down on the competitors. The Hariyama, which was actually a Shiny, walked over to its place and Slammed its legs like a sumo.
"A shiny Hariyama?" Sam asked in surprise. 'Huh, this might actually be a challenge. Hariyama's are known for their high attack power and Stamina, but their speed and defense are sorely lacking. Heracross beats it in both of those areas...come on, Heracross, don't lose to this guy!'
The 2 sized is each other up with Heracross flexing its muscles with Bulk up and Hariyama stomped both its feet and drank some brine getting its stance ready.
DING
Heracross dashed in with a focus punch with the Yama responding with Arm thrust "Yama!" Heracross' instincts kicked in and instead of matching the blow he cross blocked it. The blow pushed him back, skidding to a stop. The crowd ooh'd and aww'd seeing the bug pokemon blocking for the first time that night. Heracross breathed hard and lowered its arms glaring at the sumo pokemon over its arms. Hariyama swaggered and made a come-on motion.
Heracross steadied its breaths and lowered its guard; still glaring at its enemy. He began circling Hariyama who now stood in the middle of the ring. They both understood their strengths one with more mobility and defense the other more health and power, so whoever broke the stalemate and used their strengths better would win this time.
The crowd was getting impatient with this little standoff and were jeering at them to get this show started. The pokemon who were bred to fight and provide a show for their audience had to follow their call and it was Heracross who did the first move; Bullet Seed.
Hariyama simply stood its ground and blocked the bullets with its large palms. It then raised its fist and brought it down hard. Rocks burst forth from the ground as Hariyama used its next move; Stone Edge. The rocks continued to move towards Heracross, who quickly jumped back at the Rocks burst from where he stood.
Heracross dashed forward with a Megahorn attacked, but Hariyama saw the opportunity and as Heracross was close enough, slammed into it while taking damage from the Megahorn. It then grabbed Heracross by the horn, threw it over its shoulder and slammed it into the ground, having used the move Vital throw.
Sam cringed. "Oooh... that's gotta hurt." Hariyama raised its fists as the audience cheered.
Heracross grunted in pain but quickly opened its eyes. With renewed power, spiralling energy appeared in its arms, and it landed a solid punch on Hariyamas jaw, having used the move Reversal. Hariyama was sent into the air but landed on its feet on the other side of the wring. Both Pokemon glared at each other.
Heracross stomped its leg lifting a boulder into the air. Grabbing it he threw it at Hariyam using Rock Smash. Hariyama was not impressed as he blew up the rock with an Arm thrust. However, that was just a distraction as just as he destroyed the rock Heracross came flying in right behind with Fury Attack"
"HARR!" Hariyama staggered forward from the attack, and quickly turned around to counter with a force palm, but looked around in bewilderment. It then quickly looked up as Heracross loomed above him, energy gathered around as it prepared to finish the match with a Giga Impact.
Hariyama knew it couldn't dodge in time and quickly raised its hands to block the attack. It was the wrong choice. Heracross smashed through his defense and pushed him to and out of the cage.
Dust covered the arena, and when it cleared, Heracross was still standing and Hariyama was lying outside the ring, unconscious with swirls in its eyes.
The crowd cheered "HERA CROSS. HERA CROSS. HERA CROSS." Everyone was happy except for the boss. He nodded his head towards his aides and they made the call.
Roy noticed their movements and gave Sam the signal.
Sam stood up and gave the call "Now Ava, Vaea!" the pokemon gave confirmation and their eyes glowed. The light's went out and then Chaos.
People confusedly looking around and thugs as well. Roy pulled out his pokemon and shouted "Sam block your eyes!" he threw a blinding grenade in the air blinding everyone. He got his fist ready "Alright. Take them out Pokémon... Non lethally I add."
Meanwhile, the guards rushed out onto the Arena to stop Rory. "You little punk, you're gonna get it now!" They all reached behind to reach their Poke-balls...but they couldn't find them. "What the-?! Where are my Poke-balls?!" One of them shouted.
"They're gone!"Another one shouted. "How the hell-?!"
Rory smirked. 'So that's what he was talking about. Not bad.' "Well if you guys aren't gonna throw out you're Pokemon, I'll send mine out for you!" He tossed out two more Poke-balls and out came Infernape and Electabuzz. They glared at the goons who stepped back in fear. "So...who's first?" Rory asked.
Meanwhile, the guards at the stairs to the boss's room were looking around in confusion. "What the hell is going on?!" One of them shouted. "What happened to the lights?!" The other one asked.
"Oh, that would be by me," a voice said before they found themselves being lifted by a Pokemons Psychic. The glowing eyes of Ava peered at them from below as her trainer moved closer "And I'll be taking those," having Ava take away their Pokeballs.
"Hey, give those back!" One of them shouted.
"You little punk, who do you think you are?!" The other one shouted.
"Just a fellow debt collector," Sam said as he walked past them, with Ava and Vaea behind him. "Your boss is overdue on his payments and Giovanni wants what he was promised."
This caused the two of them to gasp. "Giovanni?! Then you're from Team Roc-UAAAAGH!" The both of them were sent flying over the stadium directly and slammed headfirst into the wall, knocking them out cold. Sam and his Pokemon marched up the stairs to the boss's room.
Inside the room, the boss was trying to get the situation under control. He growled at the chaos below as he broke his drinking glass in his hand. He turned to his thugs. "Get down there, get the lights back on, and clean up this mess now!"
"Yes sir!" They both said as they dashed toward the door. But the moment it opened up, a shadow dashed past them. "Whoa, the hell was that?!" One of them. Both turned and saw A Sneasel grinning at them. "A Sneasel? Where did that come from?!"
"Hey, where are my Poke-balls?!" One of them asked. The other reached behind him and gasped. "Mine are gone too!" Both looked back at the Sneasel, who was grinning and open its palms revealing four Poke-balls. "You little-give those back!" Both were about to charge when they were suddenly stopped by a psychic force. "What the-Uaaagh!" They were then thrown out through the window, shattering it, and fell onto the arena below. The boss looked down in shock.
"Man, it really is hard to find good help these days."
The boss turned and saw a trainer, who had his hands in his pocket, wearing a black leather jacket with a matching grey and black hat walk up next to the Sneasel. An Espeon was right next to him. "But then again that's probably why you went to Giovanni in the first place because you couldn't trust anyone else to help you run this fighting ring." He shrugged. "But you know what they say, be careful who you trust."
It was an outright beatdown. Normal humans could not deal with the outright force coming from the pokemon. Roy joined in still, never one to sit out on a fight, punching thugs left and right and dodging the panicking crowd that filled the room.
A group of thugs came from a room all filled with guns "Everyone sit your asses down!" said the leader of them but before he could fire a warning shot all their weapons were taken from their possession "What!?" They shouted in confusion as the weapons all floated to the ghost-type smoking on the ceiling "Gen Gar" 'Weak humans'. He grouped the weapons into a giant metal ball fusing them and threw them back at the guards. "Waaaah" they screamed jumping away from the ball.
Roy noticed some of them following the path Sam had taken to their bosses headquarters he called out to his Heracross "Heracross! Go protect the entrance to those stairs!" he told the pokemon who grunted in response and flew with his wings to take that position. Roy pulled out his Kingler to take its spot in the fight.
The boss sweated nervously as Sam and his Pokemon walked forward. "Giovanni?! You're from Team Rocket!?" He backed away nervously. "What the hell do you want from me?!"
"Oh nothing much big guy." Sam shrugged. "I'm just here to collect your debt."
"My debt?!"
"Yeah you know, the money you owe Team Rocket after they loaned you the money, the resources, and the Pokemon necessary to make this little dream fighting ring of yours a reality," Sam explained. "And you are currently overdue on your payments."
The boss took a step back and glanced behind him on the counter, where on a stand his 6 Poke-Balls were. 'If I can just get to the Poke-balls-!' "B-but I'm good for it! Just tell Giovanni he'll get his money! I promise! I've just haven't gotten the money yet!" He said as he stepped back.
Sam tilted his head. "Oh really? Then how were you able to afford that fancy business suit? Those cost thousands of yen." Sam pointed toward the black suit the boss was currently wearing.
"Uh well, I-!" He stepped backed. Almost there...!
"And how were you able to afford those nice little diamond rings that you're wearing on your fingers?" Sam asked as he pointed towards the multiple rings on his fingers.
"That's-!" He took another step back. Just a little more...!
"And these Poke-balls of yours," Sam said as he held up a Poke-ball covered to the brim with rhinestones. "How were you able to purchase these shiny toys?" The boss gasped and looked behind him, his Poke-balls were gone! He looked back and forth. "Wha...how did you-?!"
"Oh, Vaea used substitute and took the Poke balls when you weren't looking," Sam explained to the boss's shock. "Now I could stand here all night and listen to your excuses on why you haven't kept your end of the bargain, but we've both seen that scenario. So let's skip the bullshit and get to business, shall we? As of now, you're fired and this place is now the complete property of Team Rocket." Sam said with a smile. "I'm sure you understand."
"W-what?! You can't do that!." The boss said as he pointed at Sam. "You're just one of Giovanni's dogs! If you think I'm gonna-AGH!"
The boss was then silenced as Sam dashed forward, grabbed his arm, threw him over his shoulder and slammed him down on the ground. He grunted as Sam slammed his foot on his stomach. "I'm sorry, I couldn't quite catch that last part. Care to repeat that? Or do we have to do this the hard way?" Vaea and Ava came next to Sam, Vaea placed her claws on the boss's neck and Ava used her psychic to immobilize him.
"So then 'Boss', what will it be?"
A thug was eyeing the back of the Team Rocket agent who had started all this. He took out a switchblade "At least I'll be able to take you out. Without their trainer, the pokemon won't know what to do." As soon as he saw Roy turn his back and focus entirely on punching down a thug he went in for the kill.
Roy was punching a man's teeth out when he felt a sense of death from behind him. He turned and saw a man rushing towards him with a knife; he couldn't dodge this one 'Fuck shit' was his thoughts.
However, the knife never struck through as Electabuzz the threat away and brick breaked the man's face; sending him flying. Roy looked at the pokemon and the pokemon looked at him and all Roy could say was "Thanks Electabuzz". The pokemon did a slight nod "Electabuzz" he said and then ran off to smack down the next thug, Roy watched him go and let go of the now unconscious guard in his fists. He then looked around watching his pokemon clear out the last of the enemy "Hmm Looks like this is almost over. Good job my pokemon."
"Well? What's it going to be big guy?" Sam asked as he peered down at the boss. "You going to give up quietly, or do we have to do this the hard way? ~I'm waiting.~"
The boss stared at Sam, then glanced at his pokemon. He closed his eyes and swallowed. He opened them up and glared. "If you think I'm just going to stand by and let one of Giovanni's dogs come in and take over my business, then you got another thing coming!"
Sam made a tsk sound and waved his finger. "Wrong answer." He turned to Ava motioned to the broken window. "Toss him, Ava."
"Espeee...!" She lifted the boss into the air.
"W-what are you doing?!"
Sam smiled and waved. "Have a nice fall!"
"Peeooon!" Ava tossed him out the broken window.
The boss screamed as he fell, then landed on the ground face first. He groaned in pain. He looked up and saw Rory standing above him. "Y-you there! You have to help me!" He scrambled up to Rory and grabbed his pant legs. "This kid, he's from Team Rocket and he's trying to take over the business! You have to help me, I'll pay whatever you want just get rid of him!"
"10 million yen" was Roys reply.
The boss man didn't have that money, but this man didn't know that "Yeah 10 million!" he grabbed his jacket and pleaded "Now get me out of here!" Roy took his hands off of him and grabbed his shoulder "Alright follow me!" He made him go through the chaos dodging pokemon and the flying bodies. They reached the bookers' room and banged on the bars "Yo Bookie! Let us in!" "Fuck off!" he retorted from somewhere deep in the room. "Open for your boss or i'm gonna get my people to find you and take everything from you!" yelled the fat man. Silence and then the lock on the door clicked open "Alright Come in, but shut the door quick!". The fat man turned towards Roy "Alright so whats your plan!?" "Nothing," he said pulling a Pokeball "What!? I'm paying you to keep me safe!" he barked pointing fingers. Roy then summoned his scythe out "Yeah and why would I want that when..." he pulled out his Team rocket hat "When I'm about to take everything".
The other 2 were completely shocked and flabbergasted "Wha-what!? Your Rocket tra-!" he was stopped short by Scythers' sharp claw aimed at his throat "N-n-n-now, don't be hasty. Team Rocket aren't killers r-right?" the now sweaty man asked holding his hands up. "Your fate will be decided by Giovanni. They can't claim murder if there isn't a body, but that's for him to decide. Now you!" he pointed towards the bookie "YES" Roy pointed towards the safe "Open it. That's Team Rockets money now and if you would like to keep your current profession. I recommend not to keep with any," he said dead serious "Y-yeah sure. Whatever you say," he said hurriedly going to open it. "Fucking bastar-hugh" the boss' throat was further threatened by the Scyther "Shut up, idiot," Rory told the man. Gengar came in through the ceiling and tugged at his Masters' shirt "Hmm?" "Genar Gengar Gen" 'Humans down. Partner is calling' "The battle over?" Gengar nodded his head. Rory looked at the door "Great. Been a long day. Psychic these 2 and wrap them with some rope or whatever. Keep them here wait for further instructions" he said walking to the door "Gar" the Fat man tried to curse one more time "I'll fucking get you back! Don't think this is-" Gengar did his thing.
Sam, after tossing out the boss, he and his Pokemon looked all over the room. "Let's see...what other valuables have you been hiding from Giovanni?" He then opened a drawer, he found cases of Poke-balls, labelled as winnings. "Poke-balls...so these must be some of his winnings then. He was keeping these to himself!" He clenched his fist. "Rich fat bastard...! Can't stand people like him!"
Ava came up and rubbed against him affectionately. "Pee?"
Vaea came up and pulled on his pants. "Snea?"
He looked down and smiled. "Oh don't worry about me girls, I'm alright. Now then." He reached down and grabbed the suitcase. He opened it up and placed the poke-balls he took back from the thugs and placed them all inside on the empty slots. "Let's go find Rory, report to headquarters, and get the hell out of this place shall we?"
"Espe/Snea!" They both said. Both jumped up and sat on his shoulders. He chuckled and petted them both. "Let's move!" He jumped out the window and landed safely on the ground. He looked all over the arena and saw that the rest of the guards were now out cold. "Well, so much for collateral damage to a minimal am I right?" He said as he and his Pokemon sweatdropped. "Hey, Rory! Are you here?!" No response.
"Huh, wonder where is he is." Then he looked over and saw Gengar, along with an Electabuzz, Kingler, Heracross, and Infernape walking towards him. "Oh, you're Rory's Pokemon. One of you mind getting you're trainer? We're pretty much done here."
Gengar nodded. "Gen." She flew through the air. A few moments later, Rory walked out. "Well, someone had fun fighting. Whatever happened to keeping it to a minimum?" He smirked, still holding the briefcase with the Poke-balls.
"If possible, didn't mean we have to" he responded.
"Ah protected on technicalities. Gotcha, so we got some goods here" he said motioning to the suitcase in his hands "I saw you came out of the bookies' shop, got our money" he asked with a raised eyebrow.
"We're getting all the money. Gengar! Bring all the money over here in a suitcase!" he yelled out into the cage. A few moments later the Gengar walked out with a floating suitcase and sent it ahead of him to his master.
"So that's all ours now! Sweet!" Sam said excitedly.
Rory shook his head "No. Only what we made in winnings. Everything else is Team Rockets funds."
His face along with those of his 2 small pokemon went depressed "Aww party pooper."
Rory grunted disapprovingly "Just get everything that we need. Take care of the tapes. I'll start setting up the holo-call" "Ookaaayy" Sam moped and went to do the things. Rory sighed 'Kid' and then regarded his pokemon. Putting each one by one and then he got to his Heracross. The pokemon was not in a good shape the whole day fighting and having to fight even after those 2 pokemon champions. Took a tole on the giant beetle having a new mark on his arms from the Hirayamas Arm thrust. Rory regarded him "You proved to be the Champion of Champions Heracross. Great Job take a long rest." the beetle looked grateful not hearing those words of praise all the time from his master "Hera Cross Heracross" 'It was fun. Thanks to you' it said before closing its eyes and starting to sleep. While Roy didn't understand his exact words he felt they were of appreciation "Hmm" he then put it back into its Pokeball.
After they had made sure to get everything they needed they left the same way they came. This time being met by the Team Rocket clean up crew at the alley. There was only one team of around 7 people and Roy thought that was not enough "You might wanna call in another team. Lots of cargo and people to clean." the leader of the team nodded and pulled out his phone while the other 6 went in once the 2 got out of the way.
The 2 went to an open space and Roy started the call with Giovanni already on the screen "Team Rocket! Giovanni sir." they saluted. He grinned and saluted as well "Team rocket, From what they told me things were a success and all the funds have been procured?" he asked. Roy responded "Yes sir. All the money and pokemon sent by Team Rocket have been retrieved." he said both opening and presenting the items to their leader. "Hmmm Good. You know where to send the Pokémon. Now about our little fat friend what has become of him." he asked with a raised brow. Roy stood at attention and had to ask something "Sir. What about the money?" "You can keep it. Our take over of that ring with a new head manager can make that in a week." "Sorry for the question sir!" Roy said bowing his head. "At ease, now about the fat man" Sam responded this time "Tied up along with all the other people there" Giovanni hummed thinking and looked between both Roy and Sam his gaze finally landing on Sam "What do you think we should do with him, Agent Sam?" Sam was confused as to why the question was being asked to him "Uh sir, I think Rory would have a better decision on this" Giovanni grinned and shook his head "No. He would just say what I would want to do or what would be best for Team Rocket. But I want to know what you would like to be done. So...?"
Sam put a finger to his chin. "Well killing him would be the easiest option. Taking care of loose ends is a smart idea. However, his death could potentially bring us unwanted attention. And from what I gathered about him, when it comes to making money he's pretty good, he was able to afford the most expensive clothing and jewellery."
He was silent for a moment. "I think it would be best to let him live, show him that Team Rocket is capable of mercy. However considering he tried to swindle us, we can't just let this slide. I believe that he should have to work off all the money he owed us. Perhaps as a Grunt, Janitor, or maybe even at the Fighting Ring, working directly under one of us." He smirked. "If you ask me, that's a fate far worse than death."
Giovanni smirked. "I quite agree Agent Sam. I know the perfect job for him. I'll see to it that our dear friend is taken care of, In the meantime, I suggest you two lay low for a while until you have your next assignment. You both have performed admirably and deserve the rest. Team Rocket!"
"Team Rocket!" They both saluted.
"Espeon/Sneasel!" His Pokemon said as well.
The transmission ended. Sam sighed and grinned. "Now that was what I call a successful mission!" He said to his pokemon. "Good job you two! You both are getting the best food tonight!" He said as he bent down and petted them. "But for now you two rest up." He beamed back his Pokemon to his poke-balls.
Later, they each caught a ride on a Grunts vehicle on the ride home, dropping them off at Saffron City. The two walked down the street as they departed for their homes.
"The guards Pokeballs," Rory said. "You managed to take them before they had to chance to release their Pokemon. I assume with your Sneasel?"
"Yup!" Sam replied with a childlike grin. "I figured you could of use the extra help, so I got Vaea to snatch them during the matches. Old sleight of hand trick I taught her. I trusted it help?"
"Not really." Sams grin turned to a frown. "My Pokemon would have easily handled them with or without their own. But, it was still a clever strategy using a Pokemon that's built for stealth. So...thanks." Rory replied silently.
"Daww, you're welcome buddy!" Rory just grunted. "You know it's a shame we didn't get to do our motto, I worked hard making ours and we haven't even used it yet!" Sam said with his arms behind his head.
Rory rolled his eyes. "Don't tell me you want to do one like those three idiots did. Besides their not even mandatory, just something that the teachers drill into your head to help you remember Team Rockets ambitions."
Sam smirked. "Yeah, but you can't deny that it's a fun thing to do. Plus I heard it boosts morale among teammates. Just wait until I show you the one I wrote for us."
Rory huffed. "I rather not thanks."
Sam chuckled at his response. "Hey don't knock it till you try it!" They then came to a fork in the road. "Welp, see ya later Rory. Try to sleep off that gruffness won't ya?"
Rory rolled his eyes. "Sleep of that immaturity then will talk."
Sam just laughed. "I'll keep that in mind. Until next time!" Sam said as he waved goodbye. Rory just turned his backed and waved as well. But he did have a small smirk on his lips. Guess he's not completely immature...not by much, but still.
'The guy sure is ruff around the edges, but I have to admit he's good with his Pokemon. Better than the other agents I've seen...he's no angel, but he's got morals.'
Both vanished into the night as they contemplated their feelings of respect for their partners.