Michael:

- Jolteon (Nick)

- Gardevoir (Alicia)

- Houndoom (Erebus)

- Walrein (Boreas)

- Breloom (Ceres)

- Flygon (Sarah)

Liz:

- Sylveon (Titania)

- Ursaring (Artemis)

- Ampharos (Voltaire)

- Ninetales (Vixen)

- Roserade (Lilith)

- Togetic (Faye)

Mastering Evolutions – Part 2

1 Week Left:

"Wait, that was their reasoning? The government stopped them?" Dr. Krane asked, his tone matching the emotions in the room. Lily, Liz, Dr. Hanz, and Aidan were all in the room, looking stressed. "We need to figure out which officials are involved, and we need to do it quickly…"

"But we can't afford to delay going to Citadark Isle," Michael said, looking serious. "If we don't go in the next week, Cipher will attack Orre."

"Michael's right. The problem is that we don't have the needed trainers to take on both the government and Cipher," Liz said.

The others in the room all seemed to exchange looks. "Actually, we have a lot of trainers," Lily said. "Have you guys not been noticing while you were here? All the Shadow Pokémon you guys caught have been training with others here. Your efforts led to most of the researchers now having Pokémon at least trained to level 55."

Michael's eyes went a little wide. "Wait, how long have you all been training like this?" he asked. "It's only been a few months."

"We realized it after I was kidnapped," Dr. Krane said. "This lab is likely to be the target of another attack if Cipher were to grow bold enough. We need to be able to defend the Purify Chamber when you and Liz aren't here."

"So, we have an army of our own," Liz said. "Then it's just a matter of when we go to take care of the Orre Government. Considering the capital is in Phenac, it's on the other side of Orre from Gateon Port, where we'll be launching the Robo-Kyogre," Liz said.

"Who are the strongest trainers here?" Michael asked.

"That would be Aidan, Coach Warren, and myself," Dr. Krane said. "Considering how strong her Parasect, Persian, and Arcanine are, Lily is very close to being in the top three."

Lily rolled her eyes. "Rich, you're being too modest. Your Claydol and Shiftry are both incredible. You're likely the strongest trainer after Michael and Liz," she said.

Both Liz and Michael were still in awe for a moment. "Well, looks like we have the government aspect covered…so, tomorrow, Liz and I will be going to Agate Village. Eagun called us about having a secret weapon. He said we were at a level where we could master it."

"Oh?" Dr. Hanz asked. "Did he say anything specific."

"No, just to meet him at eight in the morning in Agate Village," Liz said. "Looks like we're getting up early tomorrow." Michael just looked away innocently, knowing Liz was glaring playfully at him.

"Oh, then you two had better go to bed soon. It's late," Lily said.

Michael looked at the clock, seeing it was almost midnight. "Oh, good…we'll need to be up in four hours," Michael said with enthusiasm. "Maybe Liz and I should've gone to Agate earlier."

"Dunno, you two don't have enough money to pay for two hotel rooms there," Dr. Krane teased.

"What do you mean? We can afford two rooms. Please elaborate on what you mean," Liz said in a joking tone.

Dr. Krane raised his eyebrow. "Ah, I miss you two being easy to fluster," he said with a sigh. "Anyway, we'll get the plans together for dealing with the government in the next week. You two get some sleep for tomorrow."

Michael and Liz chuckled together before leaving the room. Lily and Dr. Hanz just gave Dr. Krane a shared look. "You know, Richard, we all know they're dating. You didn't need to make it awkward," Dr. Hanz said.

"Oh, come on," Richard said with a grin. "I was just teasing. Not like you two were much different when you were dating your spouses."

Lily sighed. "At least don't try to push them to something they aren't ready for. Arceus knows we don't want grandkids just yet."

6 Days Left:

The next morning, as the sun was rising, Michael and Liz were getting on his scooter, ready to drive to Agate after at least three cups of coffee each. "Ready to go?" Michael asked.

"Sure, let's do this," Liz yawned. Michael revved the engine and they sped off. Alicia was currently sleeping in her Pokéball, as were all their other Pokémon. Just because the trainers were bad at time management, didn't mean they should be forced to wake up early too. Luckily, their packs also held plenty of food for their Pokémon once they woke up.

They drove steadily, without too many interruptions. However, they did have to stop for fuel. Liz only barely stopped Michael from yelling at the convenience store clerk over the $15.99 per gallon price, a price that would be considered robbery in any other region. The one reason he didn't was because they both needed to use the restroom after their coffee earlier took effect, and the clerk had the only key. Better to not piss of the person who could prevent their relief. Thankfully, the restroom was clean enough.

They arrived in Agate at 7:45, parking right by the Eagun's home. "Well, we're here," Liz said, still sounding a bit tired. In contrast the door to Eagun's home burst open with an energetic Eagun waving to them.

"You two are perfectly on time! I have quite the array of secret weapons for the coming battle with Cipher," Eagun said, a pack on his shoulder. "Come, come. I have them all with me. I'll teach them to you at the Relic Stone."

Michael and Liz were both intrigued as they walked through the village with the elderly Pokémon trainer. "So, what are these secret weapons?"

Eagun smiled, wagged his finger, and kept walking. "Patience. We'll be there shortly."

"Can we get a hint at least?" Liz asked.

"We'll just say it has to do with your bond with your Pokémon," Eagun said as they entered the cave leading to the Relic Stone.

Michael's eyes widened. "That can only mean Mega Evolution, or Z-Moves," he said.

Eagun turned and smirked. "Seems my hint was too good. I've been in contact with the Maple family. They helped by sending the appropriate Mega Stones for both of you two," he said. "I did try to get help from Elio Northstar, but his region is very firm on traditions, so Alola sent some funds for you two to buy all the equipment you need for the battles to come."

As they arrived at the shrine Eagun pulled a few parcels from the bag. "This Keystone necklace and Ampharosite is for Miss Hanz. The Keystone bracelet is for Mr. Orison." Eagun then pulled out a smaller parcel, handing it to Alicia. "And this was specifically for Miss Alicia. I think you may already know what it is." Michael and Liz put on their respective Keystones, while Eagun handed the parcel to Alicia.

Alicia looked interested as she opened the parcel, a small sky-blue marble with a green and pink swirl in the center fell into her hand, with a small but strong golden chain attached to it. There was also a note written in May's familiar calligraphic handwriting. This Gardevoirite has been saved for you and your trainer since you were born. Believe in yourself, and trust your friends. You will save Orre without a doubt.

Alicia smiled softly as she held the gem to her heart. Mom was always thinking of me.

Eagun smiled at how happy she seemed, but when Michael touched her shoulder, his smile turned to confusion. "The stones aren't glowing like they should…" Eagun said with a worried tone. "You two…you're both harboring doubts about your bond, are you not?"

Michael looked shocked at the suggestion, as did Alicia. However, both seemed to relent eventually. It's not that I doubt the bond…I often regret coming to Orre.

"And…I still feel like Alicia was meant to be Selena Maple's Pokémon," Michael said.

Eagun sighed. "I suppose you've only been together for a few months, and there are bound to be doubts," he said. "However, I think you two are looking at things the wrong way. Destiny is ultimately what you make it to be. Alicia, the choice you made was to come to Orre. You did so with the intention of bringing happiness to the region that had been desolate for so long. Your intentions were beautiful, but an evil group happened to attack when you came. The trauma that resulted is not something you should regret, because you are not the one to blame for what happened to you." He then turned to Michael. "For you, stop doubting whether you are the right trainer for Alicia. You saved her from being used and disposed of as a weapon. She would have been trapped for her entire life as an unfeeling machine. Nobody is more deserving of being Alicia's trainer at this point."

Alicia got quiet as Eagun spoke. He's right, she said softly before looking Michael in the eyes. Michael, you are the only trainer I could ever have. Even if I were to go back to Hoenn…I couldn't be Selena's Pokémon. I've been through too much to even want to go back for more than a visit. She paused for a moment. Now…when I think of home…I think of the HQ Lab. I can still imagine Hoenn, and I still miss my family…but Orre is my home now, and it's because of you and Liz.

Michael smiled and gave Alicia a hug. "Yeah, he is. Honestly, if it hadn't been for you, I wouldn't have survived our battle with Snattle. If you hadn't taken the Libra that day, I would be dead now. I can't even imagine what kind of hell Cipher put you through, but it brought us together. At this point, you're family now. No matter what."

As they spoke, the Keystone began giving off a slight glow, but nowhere near enough to indicate mega evolution was possible. Eagun sighed. "It's a good start, but you two may not have time to learn Mega Evolution before you need to go to Citadark. Alicia, think about how close the bond is between Gwen and Brendan. If you want to be able to Mega Evolve, you need to be at that level of a bond."

Alicia looked shocked at that information. Are you serious? They were able to Mega Evolve when they were in Fortree City, and that was about…seven months into their journey.

"Yes…exactly," Eagun said. "They were already together for more than half a year, and they spent every moment together. Sadly, you two have only had less than two months. Unfortunately, it may take a stronger emotional catalyst to make Mega Evolution possible."

In the meantime, Liz had sent out Voltaire and put the necklace onto the Ampharos, causing her Keystone to light up with a dazzling light. Michael and Alicia both looked on with a little jealousy mixed with happiness for Liz.

"Huh…seems Liz has a gift for bonding with her Pokémon. May I ask, what are your goals once Cipher is defeated," Eagun asked. "You would be a great Professor or Breeder."

Liz looked surprised at the question, but smiled softly. "I honestly just want to learn how to make technology to make Pokémon happy. My dad was an engineer, and my mother was a researcher. I want to combine both fields into one, and I want to make technology to further build bonds between trainers and Pokémon," Liz said eagerly.

"I see," Eagun said. "You are truly a kind soul." He then turned to Michael. "And what are your goals?"

Michael thought for a moment. "Honestly, I don't know. I always wanted to be a trainer, but that was never viable as an option in Orre, so I always wanted to travel."

"What changed, then?" Liz asked. "Do you not want to travel anymore?"

Michael sighed. "Wes traveled from the region, and then wasn't able to return when he was needed. I don't know if this counts as a goal…but I think my role is to be a protector in case Cipher comes back."

Eagun looked stern for a second. "That certainly is noble of you, but that type of life is…rather self-sacrificial. Are you sure that's what you want to do?"

Michael shrugged. "I don't know, but it feels like the right thing to do. I might even be able to help restore Orre to a region where Pokémon are abundant, and kids don't need to rely on the charity of other regions to become trainers."

Eagun nodded. "Seems you're the selfless type. Then, I think it is only a matter of time before you and Alicia can perfect Mega Evolution."

Michael wanted to say something more, but his P-DA alerted him about a message from Dr. Krane. "We have a final weapon against Cipher. Once you and Liz are ready, come to the room I gave you the Snag Machine."

"Guess we should wrap up here," Eagun said. "Enjoy the rest of your day. I have some things to work on with the Relic Stone, so don't worry about me." The two teens waved to Eagun as they left the oasis grove. The elder waited until they were gone, then looked out to the forest. "It's okay, you can come out now," he said. A soft cooing sounded in the distance as a small fairy-like Pokémon appeared in front of Eagun. "I'm assuming you think Michael and Alicia will succeed with Mega Evolution. Otherwise, you would have stepped in, right Celebi?" Celebi shrugged and looked uncertain. "Then the future is still uncertain. Let us pray that they can overcome their doubts. Otherwise, Orre will fall to shadows."

Michael pulled his scooter into the garage, dismounting with Liz and Alicia. The date had been enjoyable, but Liz could tell that not being able to achieve Mega Evolution was weighing on Michael's mind. "Are you sure you'll be okay? You still have a few days to prepare," Liz said.

"I know…but I'm worried it won't be enough time," Michael said. "Regardless, let's meet with Uncle Richard. Then we should check on the Pokémon in the Purification Chamber. Tomorrow, I intend to go to Gateon Port and buy a massive supply of Ultra Balls, Full Restores, Revives, and Elixirs."

"Sounds like a good time. My team needs more training, so I'll go through a challenge at Mt. Battle. Then I'll get myself a Totodile," she said with a smile.

Alicia was silent as they entered the room where Dr. Krane was waiting. "Ah, welcome home. I have great news. Firstly, we got word that the Robo-Kyogre has been finished earlier than expected," he said. "We may be able to strike at Cipher earlier than expected."

Liz gasped and cheered. "That's wonderful. We'll catch them totally unprepared!" she said. Michael smiled a little, but didn't react too much. He seemed to be slowly getting lost in thought.

"Exactly. And, at the same time, our final secret weapon was just sent over from the Devon Corporation. Please, follow me," Dr. Krane said, walking toward the back of the room where there were no exits.

"Wait…where are you going, Uncle Richard?" Michael asked.

Dr. Krane locked eyes with Michael, then reached under a bookshelf nearby and hit a hidden button. "Well, I couldn't store it in the open, could I?" The floor in front of his feet opened to reveal a metal staircase going down into the basement.

"The rumored secret basement was here all this time?" Michael asked, looking shocked. "I gave up on finding it when I was ten."

"Yeah, we had to misdirect you and Liz from finding it after you learned about it. We took extra steps to ensure Jovi never found out about it, since she would've tried to break the laws of physics to get inside."

Liz started laughing happily. "Yeah, no question about that."

Dr. Krane led the way into the basement, closing the door behind them. This room had walls of blueprints and schematics for multiple devices the purpose for which neither Michael nor Liz understood. And, sadly, it seemed that Dr. Krane was not going to explain any of them.

"Now, the reason I brought you down here is to give you both the most important tool for your battle with Cipher." He opened a locked chest, and pulled out two items any trainer worth their salt would recognize.

"Master Balls? How did the Devon Corporation managed to get two of them to us?" Michael said. "I thought they were extremely expensive…not to mention that Orre is still closed off from the rest of the world."

"They had a convoy work with the blockades to get them to us. Trust me when I say that Mr. Stone does not mess around with these things."

Oh, I know exactly what you mean. Steven was one of the people who made the Libra such a nice ship, Alicia said.

Dr. Krane smiled as he handed one Master Ball each to Michael and Liz. They almost mirrored each other as they had their Snag Machines take in the ultimate Pokéball. "Do you all feel ready to battle Cipher now?" he asked.

"I'm certain we're ready," Liz said with an eager tone. "I can't wait to beat them out of Orre for good!"

Michael just nodded. "I'm ready as well."

"Good. Then we will accelerate our planned attack. Orre's Congress is meeting in two days, so that will be our best chance to go to the capital building in Phenac City, and force their hand."

"Honestly, I think we need to be more careful with how we handle the government. All it would take is one well-bribed news outlet for them to slander us to the moon and back," Michael said.

Dr. Krane sighed. "Yes, you're absolutely right. Perhaps working at the same time to eliminate Cipher and the government problem would be hasty. Then, in that case, while you're on Citadark Isle, try to find any information you can on which politicians are in Cipher's pockets," he said. "That hard evidence would likely lead to a much better end result."

"I don't know if we'll succeed, but we'll do our best," Michael said.

Liz and Alicia both yawned almost simultaneously. "Alright, well, I think I will turn in for the night," Liz said before kissing Michael on the cheek. "Michael, I'll see you for breakfast tomorrow. Goodnight."

"Goodnight," Michael said, watching Liz leave the room. Alicia just tapped her Pokéball on Michael's belt. Michael just looked at his uncle for a moment. "Is the Robo-Kyogre in the water?"

"Yes, they even ran the test runs. Why do you ask?" Dr. Krane asked.

Michael thought for a second before answering, something that told Krane his nephew was up to something. "Just curious."

"I don't like that tone. What are you thinking?" Dr. Krane asked.

"Nothing, why?" Michael said, trying to avoid the question.

"Michael, I watched you grow up. I know you and your mannerisms too well for you to dodge my question," Dr. Krane said. Michael sighed and got up. "Are you planning to go alone?"

Michael stopped at the stairs leading to the main floor, clearly not expecting Dr. Krane to guess it perfectly. "And what if I am?" He started up the stairs.

"Then, you'd better be damn certain you won't lose to even one of Cipher's members. If you do, there will be nobody to help you. My sister already buried your father, my best friend. I watched it nearly break her. What do you think it will do to her if she loses you…let alone if she doesn't even get a body to bury? What do you think it will do to Jovi?"

Michael stopped in his tracks. "I am confident I can win."

"Didn't Alicia say that Gorigan's real team was as strong as Brendan Maple's?"

"Yeah, and I barely stopped Gorigan from killing Liz at the Key Lair. I won't put her into that kind of danger again," Michael said.

"I understand your motivation, but it's foolish. Don't go throwing your life away for over confidence."

Michael sighed. "No, I promise that I won't get myself killed." He continued up the stairs and out of sight. Dr. Krane just pulled out his P-DA and sent a message to Liz with a recording of the conversation he'd just had with Michael.

"Maybe you can talk some sense into him," Dr. Krane said. "I can't lose another member of my family."

Thank you all for reading. The raid begins next chapter. Please leave a review to let me know what you thought, and what can be improved.

Until next time – jmoul18