AnT:
Yeah, the same happened to me. What was the name of the fic? I'm building up their rivalry gradually, but expect to see more of it show up in the near future.
I've been checking out the episode titles from Serebii.net. Did you know? It looks like they're going to bring Misty into Advance Generation! I'd love to see how Misty and May get along :)
Kell Shock:
The Legendaries have decided to take a behind the scenes approach to removing Mephistomon from power. Being Psychic isn't a good trait to have when confronting the Powers of Darkness.
Luis:
Yeah, I haven't found a good time to bring in Raichu yet, but trust me, he'll pop up eventually.
Disclaimer:
Toei and Bandai own Digimon, and Nintendo owns Pokemon.
The Stones of Doom
By: RB3
Chapter 13: Desperately Seeking Suicune, part 2
"ASH!" cried Misty and May, desperate for a sign that Ash was still alive.
"All we can do is hope he survived that cave-in!" said Morty. "We can't bring down this barrier, or else we'll end up like Ash!"
"Where are they?" asked Misty, wondering where the Digidestined were.
May pointed at the fiery glow between the cracks of the rubble. "It looks like a fire is outside! We have to get out soon!"
"Ash! Misty! May!" cried an unknown person.
"We're in here!"
Dust rose into the air as a giant walrus Digimon cleared the rubble from Alakazam's barrier. It was Zudomon! Togemon and Birdramon soon came into view, and Alakazam gave a sigh of relief. The five trainers looked around to get their bearings. A terrible fire had broken out outside, and many buildings were engulfed by the flames. Since many buildings in Ecruteak were wooden or had wood in their structure, it gave ample fuel for the flames. The four Digidestined came onto the scene to assess everyone's condition.
"Is everyone alright?" asked Sora.
"No! Ash and Pikachu were buried under the rubble!" cried Misty.
Zudomon dug his claws into the rubble, scooping piles of it away to reveal Ash lying down on his front. His body was covered in dust from the smashed wooden walls. As the Digidestined revived him, he let out a hacking cough from all the dust he had inhaled while being buried. Pikachu had a similar condition, and coughed to clear his throat. Much of the Gym had been destroyed by the explosion outside. The Digidestined and Digimon continued to pull people out of the debris, rescuing quite a few of the Gym's caretakers. Joe set up an area to tend to the injured.
Joe performed a standard medical check up on Ash. "You alright Ash?"
Ash made a series of coughs to clear his throat. "Other than a few bruises and the dust I breathed in, I'm fine. How's Pikachu?"
"He's alright too. He's a little shook up, but he's okay."
"Thank goodness!"
"Take off your jacket. I'm going to apply some first aid to your wounds." Ash did as he was asked, and Joe began Ash's treatment. "Sit back and relax while you heal up."
"What caused the explosion?" wondered Eusine.
"A jet liner went down near the Gym!" replied a caretaker. "The explosion knocked down the north wall of the Gym. The Gym became unstable and then gave out and collapsed!"
Morty looked around, finding only about a dozen police officers, firefighters, and paramedics had arrived. "That's it?" asked Morty, growing angry and frustrated. "Where are the rest of them? There should be more of them out here!"
"I don't know, but some people have taken matters into their own hands to clean up this mess," answered the caretaker.
Ash tried to get up to help but Joe stopped him. "Let the others take care of it!" urged Joe. "They can take care of it!" Ash could only growl in frustration.
"Don't worry, Ash," said Misty.
"We'll take care of things there like Joe says," assured May
Ash sighed. "Alright, take my Pokemon with you." Ash reached into his pocket and held out the Pokeball that contained Totodile to May. "Use Totodile's Water Gun to put out the flames."
Misty was annoyed. "Give me Totodile! I'm the Water Pokemon Master!" Misty took the Pokeball out of Ash's hand before he could react. Both May and Ash were speechless.
The crashed jet liner had ignited many buildings around the area of the Gym. If anyone looked into the flames closely, they could make out the faint outline of the jet liner's remains. Suffocating clouds of thick black smoke poured from the burning wreckage and buildings, blotting out daylight. The air was thick, making it a chore to breathe and everyone was sweating profusely. Only the kindness of Good Samaritans stood in the way of the fire's spread to the rest of Ecruteak. The Pokemon trainers joined these people, positioning their Water types in a line to quell the voracious flames.
"Totodile, Poliwag, Staryu, Water Gun!" commanded Misty.
From the Pokemon's mouth spewed endless streams of pressurized water. Other people employed Rock and Ground type Pokemon to dump dirt to smother the flames. Torchic searched through the flames, taking advantage of her resistance to flame. She called to Birdramon in the air upon seeing a young couple coughing and lying on the ground. Birdramon swooped down and snatched them away from the flames. Birdramon dropped the couple off in a safe area, and the woman thanked her.
"The fire's too strong!" cried Misty over the roar of the flames. "Our water isn't slowing it down!"
Each other Digidestined and their monster partner helped as best they could. Zudomon reached into a flaming building and pulled out a group of trapped residents within. Alakazam encased a different group in a Psychic sphere and levitated them to safety. Gengar and Angemon airlifted a person under each of their arms out of the burning building. Togemon cleared a pile of wooden debris away and helped the man underneath to Joe's medical station.
Finally after what seemed to be a long two hours, the blaring of more sirens filled the air. "Now they come!" commented Morty with indignant sarcasm. "Where were they two hours ago?"
The firefighters began to execute their procedures to contain the fire. However, their delay proved costly, and allowed the fire to worsen and become more difficult to control. The firefighters positioned several Water type Pokemon in a firing squad, and gave the order to spray water. Even with the firefighters' help, the best everyone could manage was to check the spread of the fire. It was a standoff, and with time running out, the chances of saving survivors grew slimmer and slimmer.
The sky overhead darkened as dark clouds blotted out the sun. Several drops of water began to fall from the sky, and its pitter-patter gradually increased in frequency. Soon, the small shower became a torrential rainfall, drenching the fires of burning Ecruteak. Everyone fighting the fire was grateful for the rain, believing it to be a miracle of some sort. The fires began to weaken and die down. The firefighters continued to spray water, and were able to finally put out the fire.
Much of the peaceful city of Ecruteak was now ruins. The wooden walls of homes were charred into blackness as thin smoke trails rose upwards. Going towards the plane's wreckage, the damage to property gradually worsened. Homes and businesses at the fire's periphery suffered only minor charring. As one travelled closer the wreckage, many buildings had their interiors and walls burnt down. Buildings closer to the wreckage were reduced to piles of rubble either destroyed by the force of the explosion, or completely burned down by the ensuing fire.
The Johto Team took some time to recuperate and get cleaned up. There faces were soiled black by the soot thrown around during the fires. They were aghast at how something like this could have happened. The authorities had jeopardized the welfare of many people with their lateness. They encountered the Ecruteak Fire Department Chief, who had the look of great anger on his face. He was screaming at the other firefighters loudly, and all they could do was to cower before his wrath. This was not a good time to approach the chief, especially if you were a late firefighter. The Johto Team looked on in curiosity, hoping the conversation would provide some answers.
"Looks like those firefighters are getting it big time from the chief," commented TK.
"DAMMIT! What took you guys so long to get here?" asked the chief.
"We're sorry, but we were watching the game and..." responded the firefighter meekly.
The chief was appalled. "You got here late because you were watching the football game?"
"Yeah, we can't help it if the game was on right now!"
The chief looked like he was going to explode. "Never have I seen such a gross display of negligence in all my years as Chief! Do you know how many people died because you were too busy watching the game?" The Chief was silent momentarily, as though expecting an answer. "What do you expect me to say? Because I'm not going to be the one to tell those men, women, and children being carried out on a stretcher!"
"I'm still wondering why the plane went down in the middle of the city," said Misty. "Do you know, Officer Jenny?"
"Not really. I heard some reports that the plane had engine troubles of some kind," replied Jenny. "They weren't confirmed though..."
The rain died down, and the firefighters searched the area for more survivors. As expected almost everyone at Joe's hospice was there as a result of various degrees of burning. Many people were wrapped in bloodied bandages. Others had gross blisters on their skin, and still others were burned beyond recognition. It was a sad to see the victims, and hear their heart wrenching, agonized moans. Everyone paid Ash a visit to check out his condition, and Misty returned the Totodile she "borrowed" from Ash.
"CUNE!" went a shrill cry that pierced the air! An unknown Pokemon leapt in front of the Johto team as though to start up a conversation. Many people gathered around to see what was going on.
Eusine's jaw dropped. "Suicune!"
Suicune began to speak and the Digimon provided a translation. "Cune! (Please, listen to my story!)"
****************************************
In the streets of Saffron City in Kanto, a massive parade was travelling down the streets. A glorious singing filled the air, as a series of armoured vehicles, from tanks to mobile missile launchers rolled down the street. Towards the front of the parade, was a flag bearer in a ceremonial military uniform. His flag bore the imposing image of a black mountain with a storm cloud above. A pair of black lightning bolts was striking the sides of the mountain. This symmetric image was imprinted on a background that was as red as blood.
Hidden inside of a vacant alley, the rat-like Rattata watched the servicemen march down the street. He scurried away to warn his employer about the event he had witnessed. Rattata dashed through a puddle of stagnant water, making a splash that drenched his violet fur. Rattata reached a street south of where the parade was to find them devoid of people and cars. They were watching and cheering the parade instead, having been ordered to do so by their government. Upon reaching a designated area, a bird swooped down and transported Rattata to an awaiting Suicune outside of the city limits.
Rattata reported his findings. "It seems the humans are at war," commented Suicune. "Petty human squabbles do not concern us Legendaries."
A month later, a creature of unfathomable evil stood before the Legendary Birds of Kanto. The mountainous land was dark and lit up only by the lightning and the demon's glowing crimson eyes. A faint scurrying sound could be heard as frightened Pokemon fled the inevitable battle. At such a close distance, the demon could not cloak his presence from the senses of a trio of birds, each related to an element of nature. The beast's violet aura flared in the darkness of the night, as though in anticipation of battle.
The three birds were the Legendary Birds themselves; the fiery Moltres, the icy Articuno, and the electrified Zapdos. They were prepared to battle to the bitter end to stop the demon's defilement of their land. The demon released a noxious black vapour from his goat-like mouth as he chuckled mockingly at the Legendary Birds. He was not afraid at all. He stepped forward to reveal a body covered by violet fur, and curled horns on his head. The expression on his face was that of amusement, finding the Legendary Birds' resistance attempt humorous.
"So you show yourself, monster!" said Articuno.
"Indeed..." replied the demon. "Do you really believe you can defeat the Powers of Darkness? You are nothing compared to me!"
"We will not allow you to continue anymore!" said Moltres.
"Too many Pokemon and humans have suffered at your hands!" added Zapdos. "We will defend our world, and we will fight to the bitter end!"
****************************************
"Mephistomon," said Ash bluntly.
"Cune... (It seems you recognize him. He killed the Legendary Birds...)" said Suicune remorsefully. "Cune, Cune! (A direct confrontation is too risky. His followers could be anywhere, and I'm taking a big risk just to speak to you!)"
"So what did you do?" asked Morty.
"Cune. (We guided humans to battle, but they are only able to slow the Evil One's advance.)" replied Suicune. "Cune! (As long as the artefacts of his evil exist, we can't win!)"
"He must mean the Stones of Doom," suggested Patamon.
"Cune! (So you know them! I am certain one of these artefacts of evil was behind the tragedy in this city.)"
"What did you mean by 'guiding humans to battle'? Did you have something to do with the creation of the Hoenn Alliance?" asked Eusine.
"Cune. (Yes, it was the work of our Psychics.)"
****************************************
In the sky, a hairless, cat-like Pokemon rapidly began to approach Kanto's airspace. Its alien figure was surrounded by the ethereal, blue glow of Psychic energy, which allowed his ability to fly. The figure was within range and began to scan the land of Kanto with his powers. A great dark pall dulled his Psychic senses, denying him any information about the land. He tried with his full power to pierce the pall, but the attempt resulted in a throbbing headache and forced him to give up. This Pokemon, Mewtwo, had confirmed his suspicions.
"It is just as I feared. The darkness is spreading like a plague across the world. The invader has cut Johto and Kanto off," said Mewtwo mentally to himself.
Mewtwo could feel a scream of gut wrenching pain from his telepathic link with his ally, Mew. "ARGGGGH!" gasped Mew.
"Pull out!" demanded Mewtwo. "We can not afford more deaths like Moltres, Articuno, and Zapdos in Kanto!"
A serene, male voice came in on the telepathic link. Mewtwo recognized it as Lugia's. "What will we do now? The traits of us Psychic types make us powerless before the darkness. I must also continue my vigil over the world's weather alongside the Legendary Birds of the Orange Islands."
A serene, female voice made itself known. It was Latias, a Legendary of Hoenn. "The Legendaries of Hoenn were either sealed away or went to sleep a long time ago. Only Latios and I remain."
The similarly serene, but male voice of Latios entered the link. "I sense the Evil One's minions approaching! They are coming to conquer our lands!"
"This is getting worse each day. What of Ho-oh and his children?" asked Mewtwo.
"They are scouting Johto, but are staying hidden," replied Lugia. "The enemy has many agents in the dark lands. They must be careful not to attract their attention..."
"If we can't confront the enemy himself, then let us find those who can. The whole world must resist the enemy, and not just us Legendaries," stated Mewtwo. "Lugia, use your powers to guide the humans of your lands to battle the enemy. Latios and Latias to assist you in Hoenn. Mew, go to other distant lands and do the same there. I will..."
"Wait..." said Mew. He sensed a great, dark presence probing into the Legendaries' telepathic link. "The enemy has tapped our link! Run before he finds us!"
Mewtwo broke the link and teleported as far away as he could. For two months, the Psychic Legendaries kept telepathic silence, and followed Mewtwo's plan to raise a resistance force against the darkness. Though the enemy was aware of their plan, he probably anticipated this happening from the beginning anyways. Nevertheless, they needed to gather everyone they could to resist him or all would be lost. Their plan was much more successful than they thought. In humankind they found many people willing to fight the darkness, since they were disgusted with the enemy's cruelty and invasion of Hoenn.
Lugia tapped into the thoughts of an Orange Islands civilian watching the news. An image of an anchorwoman filled his mind. "The Prime Minister of the Orange Islands has declared a state of war today..." An image of several military sailors filled Lugia's mind. They were boarding a naval battleship in preparation to go to the frontlines.
The children of Ho-oh, Suicune, Entei, and Raikou, were the only ones who could operate behind enemy lines with a degree of safety. This was because none of them had Psychic traits. They took the task of scouting Johto and Kanto as spies for the Legendaries. After a lengthy search, Suicune and Entei narrowed down two areas where the evil power was at its greatest. Raikou also found something of equally great importance, even though it was not directly related to the sources of evil. The three met Ho-oh in the wilderness outside of Ecruteak City to exchange findings.
"What have you found my children?" asked Ho-oh.
"There is a great darkness north and west of the place which the humans call the 'Johto National Park,'" reported Suicune. "The very elements themselves serve this darkness."
"A similar darkness is near the Lake of Rage," reported Entei. "I can sense the torment from some of our kind within, and from those of the other world. In fact, I could sense the presence of the Legendary Birds within!"
Ho-oh was surprised. "What?"
"This surprised me too. However, like with many others there, the Evil One has infused a great, overpowering hatred within their hearts. I don't understand how they could be there, when other Pokemon have confirmed their deaths with their very eyes."
"I suspect that this is the work of the Evil One's dark power," said Ho-oh. "Raikou what do you have to report?"
"It was dangerous entering the enemy's domain, but I have news from Kanto. There was a source of darkness that was extinguished by an attack from human rebels. I have witnessed several beings from the other world fighting beside these humans," answered Raikou.
"Interesting," remarked Ho-oh. "Those from the other world seek to oppose the Evil One as well."
"We have made several discoveries and should share our information," stated Raikou. "I recommend that one of us make contact with those who oppose the Evil One!"
"I agree," said Entei with conviction.
"I agree as well, but I wish to be our emissary," offered Suicune.
"Very well," agreed Ho-oh. "Tread carefully."
****************************************
Everyone was surprised. "You know where the Stones of Doom are?" asked Sora in bewilderment.
"Can you take us there?" asked Ash.
"Cune, cune. (Yes! Get a vehicle and meet me in the wilderness south of the city.)" replied Suicune.
"Why don't you let me take you there?" offered Officer Jenny. "I drive you there faster than you can walk."
"Thanks Officer Jenny, we really appreciate it!" said Ash.
"I'm coming too," demanded Morty. "From the stories Suicune told us, something big is going on that I've only begun to become aware of. I feel that this affects Pokemon everywhere, and as a Gym leader and trainer, I want to help."
"He's not the only one," chimed Eusine. "I'm not about to let this chance to study Suicune escape, and I still want to capture him!"
Suicune was displeased. "Cune! (I'm not some prize to be won, Eusine. Your attempts to capture me interfere with my duties as Ho-oh's servant. Leave me alone!)"
"I think you'd better listen to him, Eusine," urged Morty.
"He's right, I might have to arrest you if I catch you harassing Suicune," said Jenny with a hint of slyness.
Eusine promptly changed his tune. "Alright, I'll leave him alone, at least for now..."
"Good, now let's get you some cars to follow Suicune!" said Jenny cheerfully.
Officer Jenny returned to her station and pulled some strings to provide cars to transport the Team Johto. The police cars raced after Suicune, who raced south and westward in the direction of the Johto National Park with the speed of a cheetah. The wilderness seemed to fly by, and the cool wind blew up the hair of the Johto Team. The journey took at least three hours, and ended with a stop at a forest rangers' station in the National Park. Apparently, Suicune led them here to take a brief rest before travelling the last stretch.
Jenny waved goodbye to the Johto Team. "I have to go back to Ecruteak City. I told the rangers everything, and they will take care of you kids. Good luck and stay safe!"
"Thank you Officer Jenny!" said Ash as he waved to Jenny's retreating car.
An authoritative man in a dark green uniform greeted everyone. "Hi kids, Jenny told me everything. Take a break for awhile, before we drive you the rest of the way."
After about half hour, the rangers continued the pursuit of Suicune in small jeeps designed for off-road usage. "We're leaving the borders of the National Park. How far is it?"
"I don't know," admitted Ash. "We'll have to keep following Suicune until he stops."
The trees of the forest seemed to speed past like blurs. Each part of the forest looked the same as the last, until the Johto Team saw a mountain closing in from the distance. This mountain had what looked like the opening of a cavern on its side, with an unknown fiery light was near its entrance. It was evident that Suicune was going toward this cavern. Suicune slowed down as he neared a clearing just before the mountainside. The jeep stopped a few feet behind the Legendary, and everyone disembarked and took in the sights and sounds of the forest.
"Cune, Cune! (I must leave now, good luck!)" said Suicune, as he leapt away into the forest.
"Wait!" cried Eusine.
"Thanks for your help, Suicune!" said Misty as she waved goodbye.
There were two unknown shapes milling about the entrance of the cavern. The first resembled a large red dragon bathed in crackling flames. Its body cast a fiery glow, lighting up the opening of the cavern. It left charred footprints with each step it took. The second shape resembled a tornado with a pair of eyes. It looked alive, and blew clouds of dust into the air with each movement it made. Both creatures looked very dangerous, and were sure to be hostile to any intruders. It was certain they were guarding a Stone of Doom.
"What the hell are those things?" asked the ranger.
"Are they some kind of new Pokemon or Digimon?" wondered Ash, as he tried to scan them. "I'm not getting anything from the Pokedex or the Digimon Analyzer."
"They look like creatures made from the elements of nature," remarked Joe.
"Didn't Suicune say something about the elements of nature guarding the Stone of Doom?" asked Mimi.
"Yeah, he did," affirmed Sora.
"So these things are Elementals?" asked the ranger.
"A Fire Elemental and an Air Elemental," replied TK. "Where are the Earth and Water Elementals?"
"They might be guarding the inside," suggested Biyomon.
"Maybe. I don't see anyone else in the area," noted May. "Not that I want to fight all of them at once... Those two look pretty strong by themselves."
Joe turned to the ranger. "Please let us handle these guys. Wait here until we're finished." The ranger agreed without argument. "So what's the plan?"
"Maybe someone could distract those two while the rest go in," suggested May.
Morty turned to Eusine. "If that's the case then I recommend you stay with the ranger, Eusine. From what Suicune has told us, Stones of Doom are harmful to Psychic types. If we get into trouble, we'll need someone to call for backup."
Eusine was frustrated, but knew it couldn't be helped and accepted begrudgingly. "Grrrr... Alright, I really don't want to cause my Alakazam harm unnecessarily."
"I'll distract the tornado," volunteered Morty. "Someone else has to get the dragon."
"I'm a Water Pokemon expert! Fire is not problem for me. I'll take the lizard!" called Misty.
"Okay Misty, but be careful; I don't want to see you to get hurt," said Ash. Misty smiled and felt glad that Ash cared so much.
On the count of three, the two trainers rushed the Elementals with Staryu and Gengar. Staryu's Water Gun smashed the Fire Elemental, and steam rose out of the Elemental's body as its heat boiled the leftover water. It let out an inhuman grunt as it slammed into the mountainside. Gengar gathered darkness into a sphere and launched a Shadow Ball which nailed the Air Elemental between the eyes. The Elemental hit the ground, blowing up large clouds of dust. From the appearance in both Elementals' eyes, they seemed hurt, but also very angry and vengeful.
"Okay let's go in!" directed Joe.
The rest of the Johto Team and Eusine ran into the cave. They could still hear the sounds of the battle from within. The cave was dark, and the coldness made everyone shiver. Ash and May released their Fire type Pokemon, Cyndaquil and Torchic, to light the way and provide needed warmth. The movements of their flames made shadows that seemed to creep about eerily. The team reached a large underground chamber when the ground began to shake slightly.
"What was that?" asked May as the quake subsided.
"It seemed like a minor earthquake..." muttered Joe.
After a brief pause, the shaking restarted with much more intensity. "This is the strangest earthquake I've ever felt!" said Ash, who was stuttering from the roiling and pitching of the ground.
The earth under May suddenly burst open! "Aaaaah!" screamed May, as she was thrown high into the air. She hit the ceiling with her head and crashed onto the ground.
"May!" called Ash in shock. She did not answer.
The ground shook further as an intimidating, humanoid form burst out of the hole! It was a being made entirely of dirt, but seemed to have a life of its own. This creature, which was obviously the Earth Elemental, towered over the others at over ten feet tall. Its eyes were made of shards of an onyx-like gemstone, possibly fragments of whichever Stone of Doom was in the cave. Its face showed no expression as it lumbered towards them. The creature clearly intended to do harm, having already knocked May unconscious.
"Now we know where the Earth Elemental is!" commented Joe.
"Yeah, but I'm wishing it didn't know where we are right now!" replied Ash.
"You guys," called Sora. "Go on you guys! Mimi and I will take it from here! Biyomon, let's do it!"
Biyomon nodded. "Biyomon, Digivolve to... Birdramon!"
"You too Palmon, Digivolve!" commanded Mimi.
"Palmon, Digivolve to... Togemon!"
"Meteor Wing!"
"Needle Spray!"
Birdramon and Togemon's attacks struck the backside of the massive dirt body of the Earth Elemental. It promptly abandoned chasing the others and turned on Birdramon and Togemon. The two Digimon knocked the Earth Elemental back, and its massive girth blocked the way back. Fortunately, Ash had grabbed May and carried her further into the cave, and away from the battle. The group advanced further until they came upon an underground lake. In the distance, they could see a pathway leading to a small island in the middle of the lake. Their target was there; a stone statue made of an unknown black gemstone.
"There it is!" cried Ash. He then turned to Joe. "Is May going to be alright?"
Joe diagnosed his patient's condition as Torchic looked on with sadness in her eyes. "May is out cold from having her head bumped into the ceiling. She'll be ok when she comes to."
Instantly, Torchic seemed relieved as did Ash. "Take care of May," said Ash. "TK and I will get the Stone of Doom."
"Okay but don't get smug like you tend to do!" called Joe.
"Nah, don't worry! I can take care of myself!" dismissed Ash.
The two heroes left May with Joe and turned their focus to the Stone of Doom. They walked along an earthen pathway leading to the island at the lake's centre. The Stone of Doom featured the scene of a furry creature reclining against a tree. TK recognized this creature as a sloth by recalling his lessons in zoology. The sloth's mouth was open in a wide, lazy yawn. In another part of the depicted scene, several animals were fleeing in terror from a raging forest fire. The sloth was unconcerned for its welfare, or that of the fleeing animals.
"This is Negligence," stated TK, remembering the verse from the Curse of the Eight Dooms.
The Stone suddenly radiated a deep violet glow. "Why's it glowing?" asked Patamon.
"I don't know," said TK. Somewhere in the lake, the water began to bubble. "Somehow, I have a bad feeling about this..."
"Okay let's get the Stone of Doom and get out of here!" Ash moved to lift the Stone, but suddenly gave up before even putting a finger on it. "It's too much work, why don't you do it, TK?"
TK noticed Ash's odd reaction. "A minute ago, you were so gung ho on taking the Stone! Try to pick it up again."
Ash tried again, but gave up like before. "I don't really feel like it." Elsewhere, a tentacle-like mass of water writhed its way through the lake towards Ash and TK.
"I don't have that Curse like Izzy does, but I recall the part about a 'Sloth of Negligence.' This Stone must be it. It must have some kind of power to make people become lazy and irresponsible."
"I wondered why I felt that way," said Ash pensively. "I was about to get the Stone, and all of a sudden, I just felt like giving up."
"Yeah, you don't strike me as a quitter, Ash."
Pikachu looked to his left and saw the water near him bubbling and frothing. He stared at the water, knowing that something was suspicious about it. Pikachu just couldn't put his mind on what. His trainer, TK, and Patamon were too busy deciding how to deal with Negligence to notice. Suddenly, a tentacle of water shot out of the lake and wrapped itself around Ash's leg! Ash screamed in terror as the tentacle pulled him off his feet and onto his back.
Pikachu was alarmed. "Pikapi! (Ash!)"
Ash struggled to break free, but the tentacle was too strong and dragged him into the water. "WAAAAAH! Blub blub blub!" After another struggle, Ash managed to get his head above the water. "Something's got my..."
TK reached out to Ash, but Ash was pulled back into the lake. Whatever grabbed him was attempting to drown him to death. TK had to call on his partner for help. "Patamon?"
"Got it! Patamon, Digivolve to... Angemon!"
"Gomamon, help them out!" demanded Joe.
"No problem! Gomamon, Digivolve to... Ikkakumon!"
Where Patamon once stood was a radiant angel in white garb, whose eyes were concealed by his metal helmet. He lowered his staff to Ash, and the Pokemon trainer managed to grab it after struggling with the monster attacking him. Angemon pulled with all of his might, managing to pull Ash out of the water and save him from drowning. However, the monster continued to resist, and would not allow this to pass. It held on with a tentacle of water wrapped around Ash's legs. It was plain to see that the water making the tentacle was much darker that the lake's.
Everyone could here a series of strained, inhuman grunts and groans coming from the lake. "Ash, pull harder! You can do it!" encouraged Angemon. "You're almost free!"
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
Ikkakumon dropped a barrage of depth charges into the lake. They exploded with several muffling bangs and booms, and splashed water everywhere and onto everyone. The creature was shoved around and fragmented into several droplets of water. It released a blood curdling screech of pain. The creature's grip on Ash was released, and Angemon easily pulled him to safety. He rushed back to Joe's location and everyone gathered to check each other's condition. At Joe's location, they were out of the creatures range and completely safe from its attacks.
"Is everyone ok?" asked Angemon.
"I'm fine," said Ash.
The droplets coalesced into the creature's true form, and burst out the water. It resembled a huge squid whose body was made entirely of dark water. The creature's shape was not still, but rather, it seemed to shift as the water flowed around its body. The creature released a shriek of defiance, as though forbidding anyone from ever approaching Negligence. Its horrifying sight was unnerving, and they decided that it would be best to tread carefully. Ash was nearly drowned to death by the beast, and it was too great a risk to allow anyone to be placed in such a situation again.
"The Water Elemental!" remarked TK.
Ash had an idea. "Let's try some electricity! Pikachu, Thunderbolt!"
Lightning arced from Pikachu's cheeks, and surged into the Water Elemental's body. Its watery body proved to be a deadly conductor, passing thousands of paralyzing volts through its body. The creature screeched in pain as the lightning froze its body. After sustaining great damage, the Water Elemental burst into several droplets of water. Instantly, the lake's water began to coalesce again, and the creature reformed with no visible wounds. It was a frustrating experience for Ash to see his opponent go down, only to come back to life moments later.
"We're not getting anywhere," said Joe. "That thing will just keep coming back to life if we try to kill it."
Ash realized the gravity of the situation. "If this guy can reform, then the others might be able to too! We have to hurry!"
TK looked at the creature pensively, remembering the events of their attack. "I think I found a way to beat that monster. When it reformed, I saw the Stone of Doom glowing. I think it was giving power to the Water Elemental so it could reform. If we get rid of it, all the Elementals will die for good!"
"Good idea," remarked Ash. "...But it looks like we won't be sending this Stone of Doom back to Gennai. Oh well..."
TK looked at the Stone of Doom then at the Water Elemental. "There's something I want to see first. Angemon, fire a Hand of Fate at the Stone of Doom."
Angemon's fist glowed with Holy power. "Hand of Fate!"
With a punch, a beam of Holy energy streamed forth. The beam was about to hit the Stone when at the last moment, the Water Elemental leapt in front of its path! The Elemental struggled to maintain its form as the beam grinded against its body. The Water Elemental's body gave out just as the beam subsided. Negligence was undamaged from the attack and remained intact. Angemon was surprised, but TK was satisfied with the results of his test. He only wanted to see how far the Elemental will go to defend its Stone.
"The Water Elemental will even risk its own destruction just to protect the Stone of Doom," observed TK.
"Since it can reform itself endlessly, killing it won't mean a thing. It'll just come right back to protect its Stone again," remarked Joe. "If any of us go near it, they'll just be pulled in and drowned like Ash was."
Ash twisted his cap backwards, in preparation to get down to work. "This calls for some Pokemon trainer strategy! I have a plan." Everyone huddled together as Ash whispered the details of his plot. Everyone understood their role, and broke to set the plan into motion.
"Okay Ikkakumon, let'em have it!" commanded Joe.
Ash turned to his partner. "You too Pikachu, get ready!"
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
Ikkakumon unloaded a barrage of depth charges into the lake, some of which struck the Water Elemental. Like before, it burst into several droplets of water and began to reform. Ash was ready for this eventuality, and ordered a Thunderbolt aimed at Elemental's amorphous reforming mass. The lightning crackled as it flowed all over the creature's watery body. It unleashed a screech in pain, and desperately attempted to accelerate its reformation. However, the electricity worked as Ash predicted, and the creature's reformation was stalled. This was the opening TK and Angemon were waiting for.
"Now Angemon, let'em have it!" said TK.
"Hand of Fate!" Angemon threw a punch which released a searing beam of Holy energy.
Suddenly, a portion of the Water Elemental leapt into the path of the beam. "Pikachu, more power!" called Ash.
"Everyone, keep it up! We're almost there!" called Joe.
The struggle continued, with Ikkakumon firing volley after volley of depth charges. Each explosion shook the lake, making it more difficult for the Elemental to draw water to reinforce its body. Pikachu's electricity surged through its body, effectively slowing its movements down. The Water Elemental was teetering on collapse, and the heroes were gaining ground. Angemon channelled all the power he could into his Hand of Fate, for one last push. His beam ripped through the Water Elemental's body and blasted the Stone of Doom into oblivion.
The heroes exchanged a chorus of high fives. "Yeah, we did it!"
****************************************
Everyone left the cave in triumph. They found Misty and Morty outside, sitting on some rocks to rest. From the marks on the Pokemon, it was clear that they had suffered several wounds from the fighting. Poliwhirl's torso was slumped over, as though he had run a long marathon and was trying to catch his breath. Gengar was lying prone on the ground, and his chest rose up and down with each breath he took. A smile was on his face, and he was glad that the fight was over. The two Pokemon trainers noticed their friends coming out and went to celebrate with them.
Misty wanted to see if Ash was alright. "Ash are you ok?" Her eyes turned to the person that Ash was carrying in his arms; May. Immediately, the green eyed monster reared its ugly head, and her joy turned to a scowl.
It was the worst time possible for her to wake up, yet that was exactly what May did. She began to blush upon realizing her situation. "Oh Ash!"
"Oh, Ash!" repeated Misty mockingly. In their concern for May, no one had heard her.
Ash was relieved. "You're awake! You scared all of us when the Earth Elemental knocked you out!"
"I'm feeling better!" Ash put May on her feet, but accidentally brushed his arm against the wound on May's head. "Ow, my head!"
"Be careful, that bruise hasn't healed yet," warned Joe. "It will be sensitive for awhile, so be careful around it."
May tried to walk by herself but was still having difficulty. "I'm still a little woozy, could you help me Ash?"
"Sure," he replied. Ash held onto May and guided her back to the ranger's jeep. Misty could only fume silently as she watched the entire event.
Yeah, the same happened to me. What was the name of the fic? I'm building up their rivalry gradually, but expect to see more of it show up in the near future.
I've been checking out the episode titles from Serebii.net. Did you know? It looks like they're going to bring Misty into Advance Generation! I'd love to see how Misty and May get along :)
Kell Shock:
The Legendaries have decided to take a behind the scenes approach to removing Mephistomon from power. Being Psychic isn't a good trait to have when confronting the Powers of Darkness.
Luis:
Yeah, I haven't found a good time to bring in Raichu yet, but trust me, he'll pop up eventually.
Disclaimer:
Toei and Bandai own Digimon, and Nintendo owns Pokemon.
The Stones of Doom
By: RB3
Chapter 13: Desperately Seeking Suicune, part 2
"ASH!" cried Misty and May, desperate for a sign that Ash was still alive.
"All we can do is hope he survived that cave-in!" said Morty. "We can't bring down this barrier, or else we'll end up like Ash!"
"Where are they?" asked Misty, wondering where the Digidestined were.
May pointed at the fiery glow between the cracks of the rubble. "It looks like a fire is outside! We have to get out soon!"
"Ash! Misty! May!" cried an unknown person.
"We're in here!"
Dust rose into the air as a giant walrus Digimon cleared the rubble from Alakazam's barrier. It was Zudomon! Togemon and Birdramon soon came into view, and Alakazam gave a sigh of relief. The five trainers looked around to get their bearings. A terrible fire had broken out outside, and many buildings were engulfed by the flames. Since many buildings in Ecruteak were wooden or had wood in their structure, it gave ample fuel for the flames. The four Digidestined came onto the scene to assess everyone's condition.
"Is everyone alright?" asked Sora.
"No! Ash and Pikachu were buried under the rubble!" cried Misty.
Zudomon dug his claws into the rubble, scooping piles of it away to reveal Ash lying down on his front. His body was covered in dust from the smashed wooden walls. As the Digidestined revived him, he let out a hacking cough from all the dust he had inhaled while being buried. Pikachu had a similar condition, and coughed to clear his throat. Much of the Gym had been destroyed by the explosion outside. The Digidestined and Digimon continued to pull people out of the debris, rescuing quite a few of the Gym's caretakers. Joe set up an area to tend to the injured.
Joe performed a standard medical check up on Ash. "You alright Ash?"
Ash made a series of coughs to clear his throat. "Other than a few bruises and the dust I breathed in, I'm fine. How's Pikachu?"
"He's alright too. He's a little shook up, but he's okay."
"Thank goodness!"
"Take off your jacket. I'm going to apply some first aid to your wounds." Ash did as he was asked, and Joe began Ash's treatment. "Sit back and relax while you heal up."
"What caused the explosion?" wondered Eusine.
"A jet liner went down near the Gym!" replied a caretaker. "The explosion knocked down the north wall of the Gym. The Gym became unstable and then gave out and collapsed!"
Morty looked around, finding only about a dozen police officers, firefighters, and paramedics had arrived. "That's it?" asked Morty, growing angry and frustrated. "Where are the rest of them? There should be more of them out here!"
"I don't know, but some people have taken matters into their own hands to clean up this mess," answered the caretaker.
Ash tried to get up to help but Joe stopped him. "Let the others take care of it!" urged Joe. "They can take care of it!" Ash could only growl in frustration.
"Don't worry, Ash," said Misty.
"We'll take care of things there like Joe says," assured May
Ash sighed. "Alright, take my Pokemon with you." Ash reached into his pocket and held out the Pokeball that contained Totodile to May. "Use Totodile's Water Gun to put out the flames."
Misty was annoyed. "Give me Totodile! I'm the Water Pokemon Master!" Misty took the Pokeball out of Ash's hand before he could react. Both May and Ash were speechless.
The crashed jet liner had ignited many buildings around the area of the Gym. If anyone looked into the flames closely, they could make out the faint outline of the jet liner's remains. Suffocating clouds of thick black smoke poured from the burning wreckage and buildings, blotting out daylight. The air was thick, making it a chore to breathe and everyone was sweating profusely. Only the kindness of Good Samaritans stood in the way of the fire's spread to the rest of Ecruteak. The Pokemon trainers joined these people, positioning their Water types in a line to quell the voracious flames.
"Totodile, Poliwag, Staryu, Water Gun!" commanded Misty.
From the Pokemon's mouth spewed endless streams of pressurized water. Other people employed Rock and Ground type Pokemon to dump dirt to smother the flames. Torchic searched through the flames, taking advantage of her resistance to flame. She called to Birdramon in the air upon seeing a young couple coughing and lying on the ground. Birdramon swooped down and snatched them away from the flames. Birdramon dropped the couple off in a safe area, and the woman thanked her.
"The fire's too strong!" cried Misty over the roar of the flames. "Our water isn't slowing it down!"
Each other Digidestined and their monster partner helped as best they could. Zudomon reached into a flaming building and pulled out a group of trapped residents within. Alakazam encased a different group in a Psychic sphere and levitated them to safety. Gengar and Angemon airlifted a person under each of their arms out of the burning building. Togemon cleared a pile of wooden debris away and helped the man underneath to Joe's medical station.
Finally after what seemed to be a long two hours, the blaring of more sirens filled the air. "Now they come!" commented Morty with indignant sarcasm. "Where were they two hours ago?"
The firefighters began to execute their procedures to contain the fire. However, their delay proved costly, and allowed the fire to worsen and become more difficult to control. The firefighters positioned several Water type Pokemon in a firing squad, and gave the order to spray water. Even with the firefighters' help, the best everyone could manage was to check the spread of the fire. It was a standoff, and with time running out, the chances of saving survivors grew slimmer and slimmer.
The sky overhead darkened as dark clouds blotted out the sun. Several drops of water began to fall from the sky, and its pitter-patter gradually increased in frequency. Soon, the small shower became a torrential rainfall, drenching the fires of burning Ecruteak. Everyone fighting the fire was grateful for the rain, believing it to be a miracle of some sort. The fires began to weaken and die down. The firefighters continued to spray water, and were able to finally put out the fire.
Much of the peaceful city of Ecruteak was now ruins. The wooden walls of homes were charred into blackness as thin smoke trails rose upwards. Going towards the plane's wreckage, the damage to property gradually worsened. Homes and businesses at the fire's periphery suffered only minor charring. As one travelled closer the wreckage, many buildings had their interiors and walls burnt down. Buildings closer to the wreckage were reduced to piles of rubble either destroyed by the force of the explosion, or completely burned down by the ensuing fire.
The Johto Team took some time to recuperate and get cleaned up. There faces were soiled black by the soot thrown around during the fires. They were aghast at how something like this could have happened. The authorities had jeopardized the welfare of many people with their lateness. They encountered the Ecruteak Fire Department Chief, who had the look of great anger on his face. He was screaming at the other firefighters loudly, and all they could do was to cower before his wrath. This was not a good time to approach the chief, especially if you were a late firefighter. The Johto Team looked on in curiosity, hoping the conversation would provide some answers.
"Looks like those firefighters are getting it big time from the chief," commented TK.
"DAMMIT! What took you guys so long to get here?" asked the chief.
"We're sorry, but we were watching the game and..." responded the firefighter meekly.
The chief was appalled. "You got here late because you were watching the football game?"
"Yeah, we can't help it if the game was on right now!"
The chief looked like he was going to explode. "Never have I seen such a gross display of negligence in all my years as Chief! Do you know how many people died because you were too busy watching the game?" The Chief was silent momentarily, as though expecting an answer. "What do you expect me to say? Because I'm not going to be the one to tell those men, women, and children being carried out on a stretcher!"
"I'm still wondering why the plane went down in the middle of the city," said Misty. "Do you know, Officer Jenny?"
"Not really. I heard some reports that the plane had engine troubles of some kind," replied Jenny. "They weren't confirmed though..."
The rain died down, and the firefighters searched the area for more survivors. As expected almost everyone at Joe's hospice was there as a result of various degrees of burning. Many people were wrapped in bloodied bandages. Others had gross blisters on their skin, and still others were burned beyond recognition. It was a sad to see the victims, and hear their heart wrenching, agonized moans. Everyone paid Ash a visit to check out his condition, and Misty returned the Totodile she "borrowed" from Ash.
"CUNE!" went a shrill cry that pierced the air! An unknown Pokemon leapt in front of the Johto team as though to start up a conversation. Many people gathered around to see what was going on.
Eusine's jaw dropped. "Suicune!"
Suicune began to speak and the Digimon provided a translation. "Cune! (Please, listen to my story!)"
****************************************
In the streets of Saffron City in Kanto, a massive parade was travelling down the streets. A glorious singing filled the air, as a series of armoured vehicles, from tanks to mobile missile launchers rolled down the street. Towards the front of the parade, was a flag bearer in a ceremonial military uniform. His flag bore the imposing image of a black mountain with a storm cloud above. A pair of black lightning bolts was striking the sides of the mountain. This symmetric image was imprinted on a background that was as red as blood.
Hidden inside of a vacant alley, the rat-like Rattata watched the servicemen march down the street. He scurried away to warn his employer about the event he had witnessed. Rattata dashed through a puddle of stagnant water, making a splash that drenched his violet fur. Rattata reached a street south of where the parade was to find them devoid of people and cars. They were watching and cheering the parade instead, having been ordered to do so by their government. Upon reaching a designated area, a bird swooped down and transported Rattata to an awaiting Suicune outside of the city limits.
Rattata reported his findings. "It seems the humans are at war," commented Suicune. "Petty human squabbles do not concern us Legendaries."
A month later, a creature of unfathomable evil stood before the Legendary Birds of Kanto. The mountainous land was dark and lit up only by the lightning and the demon's glowing crimson eyes. A faint scurrying sound could be heard as frightened Pokemon fled the inevitable battle. At such a close distance, the demon could not cloak his presence from the senses of a trio of birds, each related to an element of nature. The beast's violet aura flared in the darkness of the night, as though in anticipation of battle.
The three birds were the Legendary Birds themselves; the fiery Moltres, the icy Articuno, and the electrified Zapdos. They were prepared to battle to the bitter end to stop the demon's defilement of their land. The demon released a noxious black vapour from his goat-like mouth as he chuckled mockingly at the Legendary Birds. He was not afraid at all. He stepped forward to reveal a body covered by violet fur, and curled horns on his head. The expression on his face was that of amusement, finding the Legendary Birds' resistance attempt humorous.
"So you show yourself, monster!" said Articuno.
"Indeed..." replied the demon. "Do you really believe you can defeat the Powers of Darkness? You are nothing compared to me!"
"We will not allow you to continue anymore!" said Moltres.
"Too many Pokemon and humans have suffered at your hands!" added Zapdos. "We will defend our world, and we will fight to the bitter end!"
****************************************
"Mephistomon," said Ash bluntly.
"Cune... (It seems you recognize him. He killed the Legendary Birds...)" said Suicune remorsefully. "Cune, Cune! (A direct confrontation is too risky. His followers could be anywhere, and I'm taking a big risk just to speak to you!)"
"So what did you do?" asked Morty.
"Cune. (We guided humans to battle, but they are only able to slow the Evil One's advance.)" replied Suicune. "Cune! (As long as the artefacts of his evil exist, we can't win!)"
"He must mean the Stones of Doom," suggested Patamon.
"Cune! (So you know them! I am certain one of these artefacts of evil was behind the tragedy in this city.)"
"What did you mean by 'guiding humans to battle'? Did you have something to do with the creation of the Hoenn Alliance?" asked Eusine.
"Cune. (Yes, it was the work of our Psychics.)"
****************************************
In the sky, a hairless, cat-like Pokemon rapidly began to approach Kanto's airspace. Its alien figure was surrounded by the ethereal, blue glow of Psychic energy, which allowed his ability to fly. The figure was within range and began to scan the land of Kanto with his powers. A great dark pall dulled his Psychic senses, denying him any information about the land. He tried with his full power to pierce the pall, but the attempt resulted in a throbbing headache and forced him to give up. This Pokemon, Mewtwo, had confirmed his suspicions.
"It is just as I feared. The darkness is spreading like a plague across the world. The invader has cut Johto and Kanto off," said Mewtwo mentally to himself.
Mewtwo could feel a scream of gut wrenching pain from his telepathic link with his ally, Mew. "ARGGGGH!" gasped Mew.
"Pull out!" demanded Mewtwo. "We can not afford more deaths like Moltres, Articuno, and Zapdos in Kanto!"
A serene, male voice came in on the telepathic link. Mewtwo recognized it as Lugia's. "What will we do now? The traits of us Psychic types make us powerless before the darkness. I must also continue my vigil over the world's weather alongside the Legendary Birds of the Orange Islands."
A serene, female voice made itself known. It was Latias, a Legendary of Hoenn. "The Legendaries of Hoenn were either sealed away or went to sleep a long time ago. Only Latios and I remain."
The similarly serene, but male voice of Latios entered the link. "I sense the Evil One's minions approaching! They are coming to conquer our lands!"
"This is getting worse each day. What of Ho-oh and his children?" asked Mewtwo.
"They are scouting Johto, but are staying hidden," replied Lugia. "The enemy has many agents in the dark lands. They must be careful not to attract their attention..."
"If we can't confront the enemy himself, then let us find those who can. The whole world must resist the enemy, and not just us Legendaries," stated Mewtwo. "Lugia, use your powers to guide the humans of your lands to battle the enemy. Latios and Latias to assist you in Hoenn. Mew, go to other distant lands and do the same there. I will..."
"Wait..." said Mew. He sensed a great, dark presence probing into the Legendaries' telepathic link. "The enemy has tapped our link! Run before he finds us!"
Mewtwo broke the link and teleported as far away as he could. For two months, the Psychic Legendaries kept telepathic silence, and followed Mewtwo's plan to raise a resistance force against the darkness. Though the enemy was aware of their plan, he probably anticipated this happening from the beginning anyways. Nevertheless, they needed to gather everyone they could to resist him or all would be lost. Their plan was much more successful than they thought. In humankind they found many people willing to fight the darkness, since they were disgusted with the enemy's cruelty and invasion of Hoenn.
Lugia tapped into the thoughts of an Orange Islands civilian watching the news. An image of an anchorwoman filled his mind. "The Prime Minister of the Orange Islands has declared a state of war today..." An image of several military sailors filled Lugia's mind. They were boarding a naval battleship in preparation to go to the frontlines.
The children of Ho-oh, Suicune, Entei, and Raikou, were the only ones who could operate behind enemy lines with a degree of safety. This was because none of them had Psychic traits. They took the task of scouting Johto and Kanto as spies for the Legendaries. After a lengthy search, Suicune and Entei narrowed down two areas where the evil power was at its greatest. Raikou also found something of equally great importance, even though it was not directly related to the sources of evil. The three met Ho-oh in the wilderness outside of Ecruteak City to exchange findings.
"What have you found my children?" asked Ho-oh.
"There is a great darkness north and west of the place which the humans call the 'Johto National Park,'" reported Suicune. "The very elements themselves serve this darkness."
"A similar darkness is near the Lake of Rage," reported Entei. "I can sense the torment from some of our kind within, and from those of the other world. In fact, I could sense the presence of the Legendary Birds within!"
Ho-oh was surprised. "What?"
"This surprised me too. However, like with many others there, the Evil One has infused a great, overpowering hatred within their hearts. I don't understand how they could be there, when other Pokemon have confirmed their deaths with their very eyes."
"I suspect that this is the work of the Evil One's dark power," said Ho-oh. "Raikou what do you have to report?"
"It was dangerous entering the enemy's domain, but I have news from Kanto. There was a source of darkness that was extinguished by an attack from human rebels. I have witnessed several beings from the other world fighting beside these humans," answered Raikou.
"Interesting," remarked Ho-oh. "Those from the other world seek to oppose the Evil One as well."
"We have made several discoveries and should share our information," stated Raikou. "I recommend that one of us make contact with those who oppose the Evil One!"
"I agree," said Entei with conviction.
"I agree as well, but I wish to be our emissary," offered Suicune.
"Very well," agreed Ho-oh. "Tread carefully."
****************************************
Everyone was surprised. "You know where the Stones of Doom are?" asked Sora in bewilderment.
"Can you take us there?" asked Ash.
"Cune, cune. (Yes! Get a vehicle and meet me in the wilderness south of the city.)" replied Suicune.
"Why don't you let me take you there?" offered Officer Jenny. "I drive you there faster than you can walk."
"Thanks Officer Jenny, we really appreciate it!" said Ash.
"I'm coming too," demanded Morty. "From the stories Suicune told us, something big is going on that I've only begun to become aware of. I feel that this affects Pokemon everywhere, and as a Gym leader and trainer, I want to help."
"He's not the only one," chimed Eusine. "I'm not about to let this chance to study Suicune escape, and I still want to capture him!"
Suicune was displeased. "Cune! (I'm not some prize to be won, Eusine. Your attempts to capture me interfere with my duties as Ho-oh's servant. Leave me alone!)"
"I think you'd better listen to him, Eusine," urged Morty.
"He's right, I might have to arrest you if I catch you harassing Suicune," said Jenny with a hint of slyness.
Eusine promptly changed his tune. "Alright, I'll leave him alone, at least for now..."
"Good, now let's get you some cars to follow Suicune!" said Jenny cheerfully.
Officer Jenny returned to her station and pulled some strings to provide cars to transport the Team Johto. The police cars raced after Suicune, who raced south and westward in the direction of the Johto National Park with the speed of a cheetah. The wilderness seemed to fly by, and the cool wind blew up the hair of the Johto Team. The journey took at least three hours, and ended with a stop at a forest rangers' station in the National Park. Apparently, Suicune led them here to take a brief rest before travelling the last stretch.
Jenny waved goodbye to the Johto Team. "I have to go back to Ecruteak City. I told the rangers everything, and they will take care of you kids. Good luck and stay safe!"
"Thank you Officer Jenny!" said Ash as he waved to Jenny's retreating car.
An authoritative man in a dark green uniform greeted everyone. "Hi kids, Jenny told me everything. Take a break for awhile, before we drive you the rest of the way."
After about half hour, the rangers continued the pursuit of Suicune in small jeeps designed for off-road usage. "We're leaving the borders of the National Park. How far is it?"
"I don't know," admitted Ash. "We'll have to keep following Suicune until he stops."
The trees of the forest seemed to speed past like blurs. Each part of the forest looked the same as the last, until the Johto Team saw a mountain closing in from the distance. This mountain had what looked like the opening of a cavern on its side, with an unknown fiery light was near its entrance. It was evident that Suicune was going toward this cavern. Suicune slowed down as he neared a clearing just before the mountainside. The jeep stopped a few feet behind the Legendary, and everyone disembarked and took in the sights and sounds of the forest.
"Cune, Cune! (I must leave now, good luck!)" said Suicune, as he leapt away into the forest.
"Wait!" cried Eusine.
"Thanks for your help, Suicune!" said Misty as she waved goodbye.
There were two unknown shapes milling about the entrance of the cavern. The first resembled a large red dragon bathed in crackling flames. Its body cast a fiery glow, lighting up the opening of the cavern. It left charred footprints with each step it took. The second shape resembled a tornado with a pair of eyes. It looked alive, and blew clouds of dust into the air with each movement it made. Both creatures looked very dangerous, and were sure to be hostile to any intruders. It was certain they were guarding a Stone of Doom.
"What the hell are those things?" asked the ranger.
"Are they some kind of new Pokemon or Digimon?" wondered Ash, as he tried to scan them. "I'm not getting anything from the Pokedex or the Digimon Analyzer."
"They look like creatures made from the elements of nature," remarked Joe.
"Didn't Suicune say something about the elements of nature guarding the Stone of Doom?" asked Mimi.
"Yeah, he did," affirmed Sora.
"So these things are Elementals?" asked the ranger.
"A Fire Elemental and an Air Elemental," replied TK. "Where are the Earth and Water Elementals?"
"They might be guarding the inside," suggested Biyomon.
"Maybe. I don't see anyone else in the area," noted May. "Not that I want to fight all of them at once... Those two look pretty strong by themselves."
Joe turned to the ranger. "Please let us handle these guys. Wait here until we're finished." The ranger agreed without argument. "So what's the plan?"
"Maybe someone could distract those two while the rest go in," suggested May.
Morty turned to Eusine. "If that's the case then I recommend you stay with the ranger, Eusine. From what Suicune has told us, Stones of Doom are harmful to Psychic types. If we get into trouble, we'll need someone to call for backup."
Eusine was frustrated, but knew it couldn't be helped and accepted begrudgingly. "Grrrr... Alright, I really don't want to cause my Alakazam harm unnecessarily."
"I'll distract the tornado," volunteered Morty. "Someone else has to get the dragon."
"I'm a Water Pokemon expert! Fire is not problem for me. I'll take the lizard!" called Misty.
"Okay Misty, but be careful; I don't want to see you to get hurt," said Ash. Misty smiled and felt glad that Ash cared so much.
On the count of three, the two trainers rushed the Elementals with Staryu and Gengar. Staryu's Water Gun smashed the Fire Elemental, and steam rose out of the Elemental's body as its heat boiled the leftover water. It let out an inhuman grunt as it slammed into the mountainside. Gengar gathered darkness into a sphere and launched a Shadow Ball which nailed the Air Elemental between the eyes. The Elemental hit the ground, blowing up large clouds of dust. From the appearance in both Elementals' eyes, they seemed hurt, but also very angry and vengeful.
"Okay let's go in!" directed Joe.
The rest of the Johto Team and Eusine ran into the cave. They could still hear the sounds of the battle from within. The cave was dark, and the coldness made everyone shiver. Ash and May released their Fire type Pokemon, Cyndaquil and Torchic, to light the way and provide needed warmth. The movements of their flames made shadows that seemed to creep about eerily. The team reached a large underground chamber when the ground began to shake slightly.
"What was that?" asked May as the quake subsided.
"It seemed like a minor earthquake..." muttered Joe.
After a brief pause, the shaking restarted with much more intensity. "This is the strangest earthquake I've ever felt!" said Ash, who was stuttering from the roiling and pitching of the ground.
The earth under May suddenly burst open! "Aaaaah!" screamed May, as she was thrown high into the air. She hit the ceiling with her head and crashed onto the ground.
"May!" called Ash in shock. She did not answer.
The ground shook further as an intimidating, humanoid form burst out of the hole! It was a being made entirely of dirt, but seemed to have a life of its own. This creature, which was obviously the Earth Elemental, towered over the others at over ten feet tall. Its eyes were made of shards of an onyx-like gemstone, possibly fragments of whichever Stone of Doom was in the cave. Its face showed no expression as it lumbered towards them. The creature clearly intended to do harm, having already knocked May unconscious.
"Now we know where the Earth Elemental is!" commented Joe.
"Yeah, but I'm wishing it didn't know where we are right now!" replied Ash.
"You guys," called Sora. "Go on you guys! Mimi and I will take it from here! Biyomon, let's do it!"
Biyomon nodded. "Biyomon, Digivolve to... Birdramon!"
"You too Palmon, Digivolve!" commanded Mimi.
"Palmon, Digivolve to... Togemon!"
"Meteor Wing!"
"Needle Spray!"
Birdramon and Togemon's attacks struck the backside of the massive dirt body of the Earth Elemental. It promptly abandoned chasing the others and turned on Birdramon and Togemon. The two Digimon knocked the Earth Elemental back, and its massive girth blocked the way back. Fortunately, Ash had grabbed May and carried her further into the cave, and away from the battle. The group advanced further until they came upon an underground lake. In the distance, they could see a pathway leading to a small island in the middle of the lake. Their target was there; a stone statue made of an unknown black gemstone.
"There it is!" cried Ash. He then turned to Joe. "Is May going to be alright?"
Joe diagnosed his patient's condition as Torchic looked on with sadness in her eyes. "May is out cold from having her head bumped into the ceiling. She'll be ok when she comes to."
Instantly, Torchic seemed relieved as did Ash. "Take care of May," said Ash. "TK and I will get the Stone of Doom."
"Okay but don't get smug like you tend to do!" called Joe.
"Nah, don't worry! I can take care of myself!" dismissed Ash.
The two heroes left May with Joe and turned their focus to the Stone of Doom. They walked along an earthen pathway leading to the island at the lake's centre. The Stone of Doom featured the scene of a furry creature reclining against a tree. TK recognized this creature as a sloth by recalling his lessons in zoology. The sloth's mouth was open in a wide, lazy yawn. In another part of the depicted scene, several animals were fleeing in terror from a raging forest fire. The sloth was unconcerned for its welfare, or that of the fleeing animals.
"This is Negligence," stated TK, remembering the verse from the Curse of the Eight Dooms.
The Stone suddenly radiated a deep violet glow. "Why's it glowing?" asked Patamon.
"I don't know," said TK. Somewhere in the lake, the water began to bubble. "Somehow, I have a bad feeling about this..."
"Okay let's get the Stone of Doom and get out of here!" Ash moved to lift the Stone, but suddenly gave up before even putting a finger on it. "It's too much work, why don't you do it, TK?"
TK noticed Ash's odd reaction. "A minute ago, you were so gung ho on taking the Stone! Try to pick it up again."
Ash tried again, but gave up like before. "I don't really feel like it." Elsewhere, a tentacle-like mass of water writhed its way through the lake towards Ash and TK.
"I don't have that Curse like Izzy does, but I recall the part about a 'Sloth of Negligence.' This Stone must be it. It must have some kind of power to make people become lazy and irresponsible."
"I wondered why I felt that way," said Ash pensively. "I was about to get the Stone, and all of a sudden, I just felt like giving up."
"Yeah, you don't strike me as a quitter, Ash."
Pikachu looked to his left and saw the water near him bubbling and frothing. He stared at the water, knowing that something was suspicious about it. Pikachu just couldn't put his mind on what. His trainer, TK, and Patamon were too busy deciding how to deal with Negligence to notice. Suddenly, a tentacle of water shot out of the lake and wrapped itself around Ash's leg! Ash screamed in terror as the tentacle pulled him off his feet and onto his back.
Pikachu was alarmed. "Pikapi! (Ash!)"
Ash struggled to break free, but the tentacle was too strong and dragged him into the water. "WAAAAAH! Blub blub blub!" After another struggle, Ash managed to get his head above the water. "Something's got my..."
TK reached out to Ash, but Ash was pulled back into the lake. Whatever grabbed him was attempting to drown him to death. TK had to call on his partner for help. "Patamon?"
"Got it! Patamon, Digivolve to... Angemon!"
"Gomamon, help them out!" demanded Joe.
"No problem! Gomamon, Digivolve to... Ikkakumon!"
Where Patamon once stood was a radiant angel in white garb, whose eyes were concealed by his metal helmet. He lowered his staff to Ash, and the Pokemon trainer managed to grab it after struggling with the monster attacking him. Angemon pulled with all of his might, managing to pull Ash out of the water and save him from drowning. However, the monster continued to resist, and would not allow this to pass. It held on with a tentacle of water wrapped around Ash's legs. It was plain to see that the water making the tentacle was much darker that the lake's.
Everyone could here a series of strained, inhuman grunts and groans coming from the lake. "Ash, pull harder! You can do it!" encouraged Angemon. "You're almost free!"
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
Ikkakumon dropped a barrage of depth charges into the lake. They exploded with several muffling bangs and booms, and splashed water everywhere and onto everyone. The creature was shoved around and fragmented into several droplets of water. It released a blood curdling screech of pain. The creature's grip on Ash was released, and Angemon easily pulled him to safety. He rushed back to Joe's location and everyone gathered to check each other's condition. At Joe's location, they were out of the creatures range and completely safe from its attacks.
"Is everyone ok?" asked Angemon.
"I'm fine," said Ash.
The droplets coalesced into the creature's true form, and burst out the water. It resembled a huge squid whose body was made entirely of dark water. The creature's shape was not still, but rather, it seemed to shift as the water flowed around its body. The creature released a shriek of defiance, as though forbidding anyone from ever approaching Negligence. Its horrifying sight was unnerving, and they decided that it would be best to tread carefully. Ash was nearly drowned to death by the beast, and it was too great a risk to allow anyone to be placed in such a situation again.
"The Water Elemental!" remarked TK.
Ash had an idea. "Let's try some electricity! Pikachu, Thunderbolt!"
Lightning arced from Pikachu's cheeks, and surged into the Water Elemental's body. Its watery body proved to be a deadly conductor, passing thousands of paralyzing volts through its body. The creature screeched in pain as the lightning froze its body. After sustaining great damage, the Water Elemental burst into several droplets of water. Instantly, the lake's water began to coalesce again, and the creature reformed with no visible wounds. It was a frustrating experience for Ash to see his opponent go down, only to come back to life moments later.
"We're not getting anywhere," said Joe. "That thing will just keep coming back to life if we try to kill it."
Ash realized the gravity of the situation. "If this guy can reform, then the others might be able to too! We have to hurry!"
TK looked at the creature pensively, remembering the events of their attack. "I think I found a way to beat that monster. When it reformed, I saw the Stone of Doom glowing. I think it was giving power to the Water Elemental so it could reform. If we get rid of it, all the Elementals will die for good!"
"Good idea," remarked Ash. "...But it looks like we won't be sending this Stone of Doom back to Gennai. Oh well..."
TK looked at the Stone of Doom then at the Water Elemental. "There's something I want to see first. Angemon, fire a Hand of Fate at the Stone of Doom."
Angemon's fist glowed with Holy power. "Hand of Fate!"
With a punch, a beam of Holy energy streamed forth. The beam was about to hit the Stone when at the last moment, the Water Elemental leapt in front of its path! The Elemental struggled to maintain its form as the beam grinded against its body. The Water Elemental's body gave out just as the beam subsided. Negligence was undamaged from the attack and remained intact. Angemon was surprised, but TK was satisfied with the results of his test. He only wanted to see how far the Elemental will go to defend its Stone.
"The Water Elemental will even risk its own destruction just to protect the Stone of Doom," observed TK.
"Since it can reform itself endlessly, killing it won't mean a thing. It'll just come right back to protect its Stone again," remarked Joe. "If any of us go near it, they'll just be pulled in and drowned like Ash was."
Ash twisted his cap backwards, in preparation to get down to work. "This calls for some Pokemon trainer strategy! I have a plan." Everyone huddled together as Ash whispered the details of his plot. Everyone understood their role, and broke to set the plan into motion.
"Okay Ikkakumon, let'em have it!" commanded Joe.
Ash turned to his partner. "You too Pikachu, get ready!"
"Harpoon Torpedo!"
Ikkakumon unloaded a barrage of depth charges into the lake, some of which struck the Water Elemental. Like before, it burst into several droplets of water and began to reform. Ash was ready for this eventuality, and ordered a Thunderbolt aimed at Elemental's amorphous reforming mass. The lightning crackled as it flowed all over the creature's watery body. It unleashed a screech in pain, and desperately attempted to accelerate its reformation. However, the electricity worked as Ash predicted, and the creature's reformation was stalled. This was the opening TK and Angemon were waiting for.
"Now Angemon, let'em have it!" said TK.
"Hand of Fate!" Angemon threw a punch which released a searing beam of Holy energy.
Suddenly, a portion of the Water Elemental leapt into the path of the beam. "Pikachu, more power!" called Ash.
"Everyone, keep it up! We're almost there!" called Joe.
The struggle continued, with Ikkakumon firing volley after volley of depth charges. Each explosion shook the lake, making it more difficult for the Elemental to draw water to reinforce its body. Pikachu's electricity surged through its body, effectively slowing its movements down. The Water Elemental was teetering on collapse, and the heroes were gaining ground. Angemon channelled all the power he could into his Hand of Fate, for one last push. His beam ripped through the Water Elemental's body and blasted the Stone of Doom into oblivion.
The heroes exchanged a chorus of high fives. "Yeah, we did it!"
****************************************
Everyone left the cave in triumph. They found Misty and Morty outside, sitting on some rocks to rest. From the marks on the Pokemon, it was clear that they had suffered several wounds from the fighting. Poliwhirl's torso was slumped over, as though he had run a long marathon and was trying to catch his breath. Gengar was lying prone on the ground, and his chest rose up and down with each breath he took. A smile was on his face, and he was glad that the fight was over. The two Pokemon trainers noticed their friends coming out and went to celebrate with them.
Misty wanted to see if Ash was alright. "Ash are you ok?" Her eyes turned to the person that Ash was carrying in his arms; May. Immediately, the green eyed monster reared its ugly head, and her joy turned to a scowl.
It was the worst time possible for her to wake up, yet that was exactly what May did. She began to blush upon realizing her situation. "Oh Ash!"
"Oh, Ash!" repeated Misty mockingly. In their concern for May, no one had heard her.
Ash was relieved. "You're awake! You scared all of us when the Earth Elemental knocked you out!"
"I'm feeling better!" Ash put May on her feet, but accidentally brushed his arm against the wound on May's head. "Ow, my head!"
"Be careful, that bruise hasn't healed yet," warned Joe. "It will be sensitive for awhile, so be careful around it."
May tried to walk by herself but was still having difficulty. "I'm still a little woozy, could you help me Ash?"
"Sure," he replied. Ash held onto May and guided her back to the ranger's jeep. Misty could only fume silently as she watched the entire event.