Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of a three-part arc focused on the build-up for this three-parter. This first part is probably the least connected to the other parts and has a couple captures. We also have a rival show up again. Most of this chapter is a world building and lore setting sort of thing but every once in a while, those can be fun. I've tried to make it feel all the more interesting with some team building, mainly for Serena but also for Brock. I can see people thinking that this is a stand-alone chapter with the next arc being a duo, not a trio but I very much consider them a trilogy instead. Oh yeah, and its an holiday, isn't it... happy hanukkah... Kwanzaa... whatever you might be celebrating, have a good time. Not much else to say, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin...
Chapter Thirty-Six: Draconid's in Meteor Falls
Brock glanced around. Taking in his friends current actions. With his electric type fast asleep within his arms.
Max was examining the rocky structures that made up the entire path ahead. Mudkip sat on top of his head, seemingly interested in his talks about the historic and scientific discoveries made. Part of him wished he could take the little guy to Pewter, after all, they recently did up the entire prehistoric museum with a fossil Pokémon care area. Forrest mentioned it when they last spoke, and it seems to be a favourite of his Omastar's.
May was walking with Swablu perched on her shoulder. The two of them taking turns to whistle a small tune, as if trying to musically compete.
As he turned to see what the couple were up too, a loud blast drew his attention. A cloud of dust rose up just beyond the next layer of rocks but quickly faded into the air. Without missing a beat, he took off and reached to his belt, taking out Vigoroth's Pokéball. Putting Electrike securely in his backpack for comfort.
Climbing up the rock wall, he peered over and was surprised at the sight. Sakura was stood off to one side, with Solrock floating beside her. In front of her was a purple, bipedal Pokémon with a square build. A large mouth took up the majority of the Pokémon, with big yellow lips outlining it, and peg-like teeth in each corner. A large tongue and throat as clear as anything. Above the prominent mouth was a stubby little nose, he might've thought they'd struggle breathing with it, but he'd be willing to bet this species is a mouth breather. On top of the head was two, short stalks that support circular ear. The Pokémon stomped around, revealing the inside of the ears to have alternating black and purple rings but there was only a single black ring on the back. Yellow stripe patterns that resembled sound waves covered the back. Each arm had three fingers and the short legs had two peg-like toes. On the sole of each foot had a yellow circle. He glanced to the side to see the others joining him, Ash using his Pokédex on the new Pokémon:
Loudred, The Big Voice Pokémon. The evolved form of Whismur. Loudred's bellowing can completely decimate a wood-frame house. It uses its voice to punish its foes. This Pokémon's round ears serve as loudspeakers.
"Ah, Brock, if my mind doesn't diseeving me," Solrock's mental voice echoed in his head.
"Hello Solrock," he smiled. Standing up, he led the way down the side of the mountain. Sakura seemed to notice and smiled softly, walking closer to greet them, with the rock psychic type floating beside her. "Long time no see."
"How have you guys been?" the Kimono sister asked.
"We're good, and it's great to see you again," Serena smiled, "we haven't seen you since Dewford. What have you been up to?"
"Competing and training... and travelling, of course," she smiled, "I've now got four badges and three ribbons."
"Cool," she smiled, "which badges do you have again?"
"I've beaten Dewford, Rustboro, Sootopolis and Mossdeep," she smiled, "I'm planning on going through Larvaridge and Mauville on my way back to Petalburg."
"So, you didn't defeat our dad," May interjected.
"Not that I'm surprised," Max added, "he is the strongest gym leader in Hoenn. Not even the elite four or Steven Stone can beat him."
"Actually, I didn't get to try," Sakura explained, "you see, after I left you on Dewford, I headed back to the mainland. I stopped by Petalburg first but apparently the leader was away. So, I headed north to Rustboro and decided to visit meteor falls before looping back round."
His friends conversed with the young kimono sister, mainly about the absence of their father at the gym. Of course, he already the cause for this but he promised not to spoil the surprise for his kids. He turned his attention towards the rock psychic type who floated patiently beside him.
"How have you been, Solrock?" he asked, "we haven't met since the Flygon oasis."
"I've been well, thank you," the rock psychic type mentally replied, "how is young Trapinch doing?"
"He's good. And fitted right into the group," he smiled, "especially when it comes to dinner time. He's help improve many recipes by combining different herbs and spices. I doubt it'll be long before he's helping create an entire meal from scratch. How about you?"
"Well after visiting the Beltoy ruins, I decided to revisit my original home. A tinge of nostalgia."
"Ah," he nodded, scratching his chin, "so you're from meteor falls. I've heard it's one of the seven wonders of the Hoenn region. It's meant to be beautiful."
"It is," Solrock confirmed, "now before we go further, I must ask something of you."
"What is it?" he asked.
"I wish to take you up on the offer of when we first met. I want you to catch me."
"You... do?" he asked, quirking an eyebrow up, "why the change of heart?"
"I am a philosopher, and out of all my travels there's one lesson I hold closer than most," Solrock explained, "it's an old proverb, I learnt many, many years ago. Once is happen-stance, twice coincidence but thrice is fate. This is our third meeting, is it not?"
"I... guess, yeah, it is," he uttered, "but are you sure?"
"Well, I like to believe someone, somewhere, wants us to be together," Solrock explained, "whatever their reason might be. So why keep testing fate, we should make the most of it. It's day's like today, scattered among the rest."
"If you're sure, I guess I don't mind," he shrugged.
Reaching into his backpack, he noticed the small electric type fast asleep. Pulling out an empty device, he held it out. The rock psychic type tapped the centre with the forehead of their face. A red light consumed and sucked Solrock inside. It dinged in his hand, with Lombre's device teleporting off his belt. Without missing a beat, he pressed the button to let his newest team member out.
"Interesting," the newly caught Pokémon mused, "I feel like the inside of that device is exactly what I thought... but also not."
"You caught Solrock," Ash smiled, "congrats, Brock."
"Well... he asked," the doctor-in-breeder shrugged, "we've actually met before."
"Ah, is he the same one from the Lombre village?" Serena asked.
"Yeah," he smiled, "and we met again when I caught Trapinch."
"Forgive my intrusion but you keep referring to myself as a male," Solrock's mental voice explained, "but I reframe from identifying myself in such a narrow explanation."
"Sorry," Brock replied, "we'll try to remember that from now on."
"My thanks," Solrock nodded, "now please, continue your discussion."
"Actually, could I borrow one of your Pokédex?" he asked the couple. Smiling, Ash reached into his pocket and handed it over. Accepting the red machine with a quick word of thanks, he pointed it towards his newest team member and scanned:
Solrock, The Meteorite Pokémon. Sunlight is the source of Solrock's power. It is said to possess the ability to read the emotions of others. This Pokémon gives off intense heat while rotating its body. It's believed the inner heat is the source of its levitation, but recent scientistic discoveries might
"Welcome to the team," he smiled towards the rock psychic type. Handing the device back to the raven-haired boy.
"What's that?" May asked.
Snapping his head in her direction, he saw her pointing above them. Following her finger, he looked up at a cliff high above them. A small blue dot appeared over the top of the side. The sun behind making anything more difficult to make out... although the dot appeared to grow in size with each passing moment.
"Look out!" Sakura cried.
Running to the side, he realised all of them made the same call. Turning back, he saw a small shadow smash into a rock and a cloud of dust envelope it. It didn't take long for it cover the dust to dissolve, revealing a small Pokémon among the rubble.
A bipedal reptilian species. Three thick, grey ridges cover the top of the head and continue downwards to cover the neck. Possessing a large, round snout, triangular eyes, yellow, circular ears, and a yellow lower jaw with two teeth protruding upwards. A pale blue colour made up the outer side of the body, with a scaley appearance. A triangular patch of yellow covered the underside. With stubby, digit-less arms and short legs, with two toes on each foot.
"Who's that Pokémon?" Ash asked.
"Pikapi," the electric type added from his younger brother-figures shoulder. Said boy mareepishly grinned with a light chuckle, scratching the back of his head.
"It's a Bagon!" Sakura exclaimed, "there the first stage of the pseudo legendary from Hoenn region, Salamence. They inhabit meteor falls but live deep within the caverns. It's not unheard of, them climbing on the mountain but it's not exactly common."
"Cool, I haven't caught a dragon type since Dragonite," he smiled, taking a Pokéball out, "I choose you, Seviper!"
He ran forward and tossed the Pokéball in the air. A flash of light smacked down into the rocky terrain and his newest team member materialised in front of him. Her daggered tail waved back and forth, with a snide glare back at him.
"Come on, Seviper, this'll be our first real battle together," he pleaded.
The poisonous snake turned around and leered at Serena. Lunging her head forward, she snapped her jaw shut in front of the honey-blonde girl. While the raven-haired boy stepped in between them, with some sort of argument breaking out between them.
"What's going on with them?" Sakura asked, "and what does Seviper have against Serena?"
"Against Serena?" Brock repeated, "nothing. It's her Zangoose that got her in a twist."
"You've got both a Zangoose and Seviper within your group?" Sakura asked, "do you enjoy the danger or were they just bored?"
"It was more of a bad judgement call in a tough situation," he explained, "we ended up in the middle of their turf war. But surprisingly, only Seviper seems interested in continuing the fight."
"You guys sure know how to find the interesting adventures," the kimono sister sighed. A red light caught their attention, turning back to the source, they found Ash recalling his pure poison type, "well guys, I say we get moving. The entrance to meteor falls is just over the next patch of mountain."
"But," Ash blinked, "but I was gonna catch Bagon."
"I think you're a little late for that," Max chimed in, pointing behind the couple. Looking in that direction, they found the rubble of rock but no Bagon.
"Where did he go?" Ash mumbled, flopping his head downward, "he can't just attack us then leave."
"I doubt Bagon attacked us," Sakura explained, "you see, their species dream of soaring the skies. Of course, it's only possible in their final evolution but that hardly stops them from trying. I think Bagon jump off that cliff without a second thought about who was down here. And left to find another cliff to leap off."
"How do you know so much about Bagon?" Max asked.
"I've spent nearly a week up here," she smiled, "I came to learn about the ancient draconid people."
"Draconid?" May repeated.
"I remember reading all about them," Brock interjected, "an ancient tribal people of Hoenn, who lived high in the mountains. Some sources claim they worked alongside dragons, while others say they worshipped them. But they long since passed out."
"Actually, both claims are true," Sakura explained, "you see, they worshipped Rayquaza the legendary Pokémon and believed the other dragons to be offspring from their god. So, they would raise Bagon, Swablu, Trapinch, Horsea. All dragons native and found within the Hoenn territory."
"How could you know all this?" Max asked, "even if you've been in meteor falls. Surely, you could just make educated guesses at best."
"Come on, you'll see," she smiled, walking down the path that led further into the mountain.
Serena pinched her lips together. Glancing around at the cave they not longed entered, she couldn't help but wonder where Sakura was leading them.
She certainly seemed excited and was leading them towards the nearby light on the other end of the cavern. The magenta-haired girl was mainly talking with May about her time with the Johto-Kimono sisters and what their role did. Back on Dewford they mostly just talked about contests but seeing as May now has now competed in a few contests, it seems the initial hype has died down for her.
Glancing to the side, she noticed Max walking close to Aron, who was crawling along the wall. His metal stubby legs literally smashing into the ground wall to keep from falling. While Brock and Ash spoke about his newest team member and her personal... dietary preferences.
A slight sound behind drew her attention and as she spun her head to see what caused it, she saw the shadow of a Pokémon. Covered by the limited light, she couldn't properly make it out but closing her eyes and attempting a mental link with it gave away who it was. She was certain it was the same Bagon who almost crushed them and walked away before her boyfriend could catch them.
"Hey guys... I think we've got company," she spoke up, interrupting the individual conversation.
"Huh?" Sakura replied, turning back, "that's probably just the Bagon we've met. She likes to keep an eye on new people in her territory."
"Bagon?" Ash asked, taking out a Pokéball, "cool! I get a second chance to catch it!"
"Hold it," she interjected, grabbing her boyfriend's hand. Stopping him from turning towards the dragon type follower, "you're not going to start a battle in this cave. There's barely enough room to move and could trap us inside. If she's following us, I'm sure you'll get another chance."
"Fine," he mumbled, shrinking the device in his hand.
"Hey Sakura," Max spoke up, "you seem to know about Bagon quite well. Why didn't you try to catch her?"
"I did, Max," she explained, "she challenged me and Loudred when I first showed up. But she won so that was that."
"But you've got more Pokémon then just him," he replied, "and could've healed up with medicine quicker than Bagon. Surely, you could've out lasted her."
"While I could have, I don't see it as fair," she shrugged, "Espeon was my starter but both Azumarill and Wurmple decided to join me. Loudred did as well but only after a battle. If I had to resort to out numbering her, or honestly cruel tactics such as widowing her down over time. I know I'm not a good enough trainer for her yet. I believe everyone has a rightful place and that proved Bagon's not with me."
"That sounds like a philosophy straight out of the kimono-sister's handbook," Serena smiled.
"It is," she replied, "or at least the everyone having a place is. The part about a one-on-one battle is just my own personal rule."
"I know what you mean, though," Brock interjected, "most of my Pokémon made the choice to join me. I feel like it made our connection stronger."
"Most of my Pokémon I just battled," May shrugged, "I guess Mawile sort of decided and Swablu too, but the others were either given to me or I battled."
"That's fine, May, everyone has their own way to do it," Sakura replied, continuing to lead the way forward, "just as long as you treat your Pokémon well."
"So, what have you been doing here?" May asked.
"Hoenn doesn't currently have a branch of kimono-sister's, but they do have an ancient tribal people who work for the legends," she explained, "specifically, Rayquaza, as the head of what is known of the weather trio."
"But what do they do?" the youngest trainer asked.
"They are like the Kimono-sisters in that they study and worship the legendary Pokémon, but the Kimono sisters pass it on to everyone else, to richen the culture and knowledge of those around them," she explained, "while the draconid people keep their knowledge and traditions within their own group."
"Draconid?" Max asked.
"It's the name of the tribe who worship Rayquaza," Sakura continued, "you see. The last great battle between Groundon and Kyogre is believed to be what pushed Hoenn away from the mainland. The native Hoenn people set about these customs so should they enter a battle again; they'd know how to get in contact with their mighty dragon of the sky to prevent the same sort of damage being caused. They became very against sharing their knowledge as more people came from the mainland and some of them wished to use that knowledge to capture Rayquaza themselves."
"I never would've guessed a bunch of dragon worshipper's would live in meteor falls," Ash mused.
"It seems like the perfect place to me," Brock spoke up, "I mean. According to the guidebook, meteor falls is the natural dragon habitat in Hoenn."
"Sort of like Blackthorn was in Johto," Serena added.
"But if they refuse to pass on their knowledge, how do you know all of this?" Max asked.
"Hehehe, you'll see," Sakura giggled, turning ahead the light appeared much bright, "now prepare yourself for something amazing."
Stepping out into the light, she was briefly blinded by the bright sun as her eyes adjusted. Taking in the view ahead, she took in a breath. The landscapes were beautifully sculpted as the warm orange sun bounced off, illuminating the hallow cavern. A marble white sheen sparkled over the breath-taking display. A cool blue water stream fell down the middle of the display, adding a splash of colour and pulling the entire scene together.
"Whoa," Ash uttered.
"It's beautiful," May added.
"Yeah," Sakura nodded, "it never gets old. Now come on, I'm sure your gonna love the rest of this place!"
She smiled as she watched her Carvanha and Surskit swim around in the ocean. The warm sand felt good under her feet.
Pulling out her phone-device, she re-read the message she got from Lance. Rudy was covering for her in the Cerulean gym, and he wrote her letter. Even all of her Pokémon stamped it. While she doesn't regret taking on this job, not being able to contact her friends has been pretty tough. She sighed and put it back into her pocket as she glanced towards Tentacruel, who stood right beside her, over watching the two new team members.
Her poison water type turned to the side and appeared to quirk an eyebrow up. Slowly crawling towards a small pile of rocks. One of her tentacles wrapped around her hand as her partner pulled her along. She follows suit without question, soon discovering why.
A small, chubby, spherical Pokémon with a short, flat tail was lying on the sand. Breathing heavily with puddles of sweat streaming down their body. The fur was a light pale blue with several white spots on various sizes on the back. The face was made up of black, circular eyes; small tusks protruding from the upper jaw; and small, rounded ears. Stubby flippers and the underside were a pale beige colour.
"Oh no, it's a Spheal," she uttered, running over to the downed Pokémon. She kneeled down and scooped the poorly Pokémon up, "it's part ice type. I think it must've got lost in some current to end up here. This warm weather can't be good for it."
"Cruel," her water poison type nodded.
"We can't do anything for them here," she replied, "I'm gonna catch 'em to help stabilise Spheal's condition. Can you go and get the other two? We should get back to the base. The aircon and medical supplies should be enough to help heal this one."
Giving a serious nod, her partner turned back and walked out into the ocean. She watched her partner reach the two Pokémon and direct them back in her direction. Taking out a Pokéball as they swam towards her, she tapped the device against the water ice type. It light shook in her hand, ending with a ding.
When her team got close enough, she quickly recalled her two Hoenn-native Pokémon and Tentacruel re-joined her by the side. Walking off the beach and back into the wooded area, she looked between the brawling city with skyscrapers colouring the skyline of Rustboro and the mountain ranges which provided cover from the rest of the mainland. It didn't take her long to find her way back to the base which their field division set up.
She entered the main building and walked towards the medical bay which they had set up. Several grunts and their Pokémon were walking around with a constant chatter beating against her ears, along with the constant hum of the aircon.
"There you are, Serena," a booming voice echoed behind her. Glancing behind, she found Matt stood with his arms crossed and a wide smile on his face. Two other grunts stood beside him, "come on get in the truck. We got a job and need to get a move on. I'll give ya the brief on the road."
"I'd love too, Matt," she replied, "but I found a Spheal washed up on the beach. She's in a bad way. I need to give her some first aid."
"Aww, the poor lass. It's not uncommon but never nice," he frowned, "grab the first aid kit and I'll be sure to keep the truck cool. We can help her on the drive, but we really do need to go. I've seen it many times before so I can guide you through her recover process."
Nodding, she quickly recalled her water poison type and grabbed the first aid kit off the wall in front of her. Turning on a heel, she followed the muscular man towards one of the trucks. She climbed into the back with the other two grunts, as he took the driver's seat. It didn't take long before they were driving through the forest and away from the base. A small square on the wall slides open to the driver's side of the truck.
"First things first," he stated, "Serena, let Spheal out and place her on the floor. The cool metal should help with her heat exposure, then spray some full heal on her."
Giving a nod, she took out her Pokéball and released the newest capture onto the floor. Opening the dark green case, she pulled out the golden yellow bottle and sprayed it onto the water ice type. She laid on the cool floor with heavy breathing, but it soon became regular.
"Good, leave her to rest and by the time our mission is over, she'll be ship shape," he laughed, "now our task. Scouts spotted magma grunts around mount chimney and meteor falls. Whatever they were doing in the later, they appear to be packing up shop."
"So why are we heading off towards them?" one of the grunts asked.
"Because just like Shelly, scientists will never just leave their toys hanging about," he boasted, "so were going in to find their clean-up crew. Our job is to find out what they're up to since the old sea dog thinks they've progressed their plans quicker than we thought."
"And then?" the other grunt asked.
"Then we'll radio through to Shelly, who's ready to launch her own team to counter them," he continued, "now for specifics. Serena and myself will lead the interrogation with Gyarados and Tentacruel. We'll also oversee any battles. We're going to insight fear. When scared, people tend to become chatty."
"What about us, boss?" the first grunt asked.
"If I've told ya once, I've told ya a billion times. There's no boss, we're all a family," Matt commanded with a joyous undertone, "but I want you two to search through their files. It could contain some useful stuff or at least something to keep Shelly off our back."
It didn't take long for them to drive right into the mostly abandoned campsite. A few tables and boxes remained, along with a single truck. Two grunts dressed in magma gear were packing away some sort of equipment. Their truck came to a stop and all four of them quickly jumped out. She ran up to Matt, as the other two headed towards the other truck. Her handed gripped Tentacruel's Pokéball as she caught up.
She would've loved to take in the scenery but now wasn't the time or place.
Noticing a large lake behind the two magma grunts, they turned and threw a series of Pokéballs. Two Numel, three Mightyena and a swarm of Zubat stood in front of them. Matt already tossed his Pokéball, with the large sea-serpent landing straight in the lake with an echoing roar.
Tossing her own Pokéball forward, Tentacruel materialised. The canine's leaped at her but she quickly sent her tentacles forward.
Each glew with a purple tip, striking the dark types right below the head. The first one fell, and all three tentacles wrapped around it.
Swinging their opponent around. She knocked all three of them. A duo stream of flames followed through and struck her as more tentacles raised to block.
A heavy patter of rain poured down over them. Glancing at their partner, she saw Gyarados swinging his tail around with a coating of water. While he was certainly trying to knock out the Zubat, the improve rain landed in the humps of the fire ground types, cooling their internal flame, cancelling the attacks.
Red lights shot from their two opponents, recalling those fallen Pokémon. Tentacruel raised her appendage, shooting out sludge bombs to block their exit.
"Help deal with the remaining Zubat with bubble beam!" she commanded.
Her trusted partner turned upwards and shot out small bursts of high-pressured bubbles. One by one, the projectiles collided with one of the airborne enemies.
Soon all their Pokémon were down for the count. Gyarados loomed over head with a threatening glare and water dripping on to them, as they fell over. She moved to the side as Matt took centre stage, his intimidating presence amplified over the clearly terrified grunts.
While she knew him as fun, loving and sort of a good guy... she couldn't deny that right now, he was the total opposite.
She looked around and a large shadow passed over head. The sight of some sort of small humanoid jumping over head after the large creature caught her attention. She couldn't be sure what it was, her first guess would be a Primeape or something but far more agile.
A loud roar brought them to a stop. Each of them looked between each other. She asked, "what was that?"
"I don't know," Ash mumbled, "but it didn't sound friendly."
"Trust me, you'll enjoy it," Sakura smiled.
She signalled to a small rock, and they climbed over to it. Her eyes widened at the sight of in the small creator. A young girl, who stood on all four's with some sort of ragged clothing was surrounded by a crowd of large dragons, the most prominent being a Salamence, coming in for a landing.
Beside her was an insectoid Pokémon who stood on two legs. A primarily light green colour covered the body, and they had a large pair of rhombus-shaped wings spread out, casting a shadow on them. A red trim surrounded the outline. The feet were toeless while they had two skinny arms, each with three-claws on each hand. Their tail had several dark green stripes and three small green rhombus shapes with red trims at the end, just like the large wing, swaying back and forth behind. Looking towards the head, he saw the head had large eyes and a pair of green antennae that pointed back. The eyes have red covers, with a sort of goggles appearance. She reached up and used her Pokédex:
Flygon, The Mystic Pokémon. The final evolved form of Trapinch. Flygon whips up a sandstorm by flapping its wings. The wings create a series of notes that sound like singing. Because the "singing" is the only thing that can be heard in a sandstorm, this Pokémon is said to be the desert spirit
She continued to scan the group and to the other side was another dragon she recognized. An Altaria, which she saw when she met Lisia back at the Rustboro showcase. Unlike the first two, this one had a tranquil expression spread over their face.
Altaria, The Humming Pokémon. The final evolved form of Swablu. This Pokémon has a kind disposition, but if it's provoked, it will threaten opponents with shrill cries before attacking them without mercy
Bursting up from behind, a large bipedal Pokémon towered over them. A predominantly brownish red with scaly pattern over the skin and scattered orange highlights on some scales and ridges. The head was proportionately large with a blunt, ridged snout and powerful jaws. Black marked around the eyes and a light grey colour covered the lower jaw like some sort of facial hair. Several sharp teeth were visible on the lower jaw, while the top was lined with fewer, orange-tipped projections. Over the eyes were a row of five spikes resembling some sort of crown. While around the neck was a feathery white ruff that extended over the shoulders similar to a cape. The underbelly was grey with white borders and two orange spikes stuck out near the end of the long tail. While the fore-limbs only had two back-clawed digits on each, the much larger hind legs had three. Plated, armor-like ridges covered the knees, back, and top of the tail.
"It's a Tyrantrum!" Max exclaimed. She used her Pokédex and scanned the giant prehistoric Pokémon:
Tyrantrum, The Despot Pokémon. The evolved form of Tyrunt. Thanks to its gargantuan jaws, which could shred thick metal plates as if they were paper, it was invincible in the ancient world it once inhabited. Deadly battles took place between this Pokémon and its blood-rival, Aerodactyl, for food and territory
"That is Zinnia," Sakura explained, "she is one of the two draconid people who inhabit meteor falls. She has quite the team, doesn't she?"
"How can all of those Pokémon be her's?" Max asked, "she looks younger than I am. She can't be a trainer!"
"She isn't," a female voice snapped. Turning towards the source, she saw an elderly women dressed in similar ragged clothing, "at least not in your sense of the word. I found Zinnia as a baby, floating in a basic in meteor falls. My Salamence, bless her soul, had an egg hatch on the same day. Her Bagon, is none other than the Salamence with my dear child."
"But-"
"She doesn't hold a Pokéball for any of her friends," the elderly women replied, "so in your sense, she isn't their trainer. But they share a bond deeper than most. Being a bit of a wild child, it's no surprise that she's a natural with dragon Pokémon."
"But where did the Tyrantrum come from?" Brock asked, "there is certainly ways to restore fossils, but as far as I know, that species is native to Kalos."
"True," the elder replied, "but some cousins in that region were given a troublesome Tyrunt. None of their elders could control it, so it was sent here. Just like the others, she pulled it into her little group."
"But why do they listen to her?" May asked, "I mean. I'm a trainer and even some of my Pokémon don't listen completely."
"It's a matter of skill," the elder replied, "you see, Salamence are always completely loyal to their trainer. It's the reason they are so fussy about who'll end up being their partner. And seeing as Salamence we're once renowned as the strongest dragon ever tamed, is it a wonder the others follow her?"
"You mentioned cousins?" she found herself asking.
"Smart girl. You've got two ears and one mouth. Nice to see you listen rather than the blathering of these others," the elder laughed, "it's what we use to refer to draconid's from other regions. We may live under different legends, but we live and praise dragons all the same."
A loud crash sounded behind them. Turning to the source, she saw a cloud of dust. As it faded, the sight of the small blue dragon stood amongst the rubble with a wide grin on the face. Slamming the fists against the chest. A series of grunts came from the feisty dragon.
"Hey look, it's Bagon!" Ash exclaimed, enlarging a Pokéball in his hand, "this time I'm not gonna let him get away."
"Foolish boy," the elder stepped in front of him, "this Bagon is no mere male. She is one of the stronger sex and thus would need a strong trainer to help her achieve flight. No way would the likes of her allow herself to be caught by you out of all the trainer's available here."
"What do you mean, stronger?" Max asked, "in historic times, men were always dominant. It only changed in recent times."
"Of course, you'd believe that. With the new wave of male superhero and nonsense in a vain attempt to make up for your inadequacy," the elder dismissed with a flick of her hand, "but women are far tougher. Always have been. I see your look, boy, do you require proof?"
"Well, you're making some pretty big claims," Max replied, crossing his arms with a scowl.
"If you're so sure that men are tougher, then answer this?" the elder loomed over him, "how come women are able to carry babies. Sometimes multiple at a time for months and when all's said and done, they'll be ready to fight another day. While men... they are swiftly disarmed with a shot between the legs."
Serena covered her mouth as a smile crept onto her lips. While her male friend's never were sexist, not even in the slightest. It was no secret Ash was the sort of de facto leader of their little group. Usually being the one to run headfirst, even without a plan... and Max, well he could be very opinionated. It's no secret he sees his dad as some sort of hero and the 'strongest trainer' on the planet. Having the elder put him in his place is slightly amusing.
"It seems Bagon has made her choice," the elder smiled, dragging Serena out of her thoughts. Looking towards the small blue dragon, she found her staring straight at her. Scrapping her foot against the dust floor with a low growl, "well dear, what are you waiting for. Do you accept her challenge?"
"Me?" she asked.
"Of course," the elder nodded, "it's evident the other females in this group look up to you. Why should Bagon settle for anything less?"
"I really wanted to catch Bagon," Ash mumbled. Shaking his head, a smile replaced his face, "but if it's what Bagon wants then go for it, Serena."
"Right," she nodded, narrowing her gaze. Running her hand belt of Pokéballs. Sylveon would be the obvious choice, but she would rather give the opportunity to one of her newer members, and two of her team haven't had a proper battle yet... letting Zangoose out would just ask for Seviper to join the brawl so, "I'll use Ralts! Let's go!"
Tossing her device up into the air, her little dancer landed on the ground in front of her. With a twirl on his heel, he bowed towards his opponent. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw her friends create a crowded area next to the makeshift battlefield. A flash of light and Kirlia materialised next to her boyfriend.
The pure dragon type wasted no time. Charging forward with impressive speed. Lowering her head, the grey ridges seemed to shine under the sun as the rushing wind seemed to create a mini-power barrier around her.
"Dodge and use Disarming voice!" Serena shouted.
Her psychic fairy type let out a high-pitched squeal. A pink tinted sound wave shot out. Hitting the ground, Bagon continued on without a blink or flinch.
He disappeared in a flash of light, reappearing just ahead and to the left. Letting out another high-pitched scream, it smashed into the side of their opponent.
Bagon went flying sideways, crashing into a rock as the disarming voice faded. Smiling, Ralts turned back to look at his sister. Kirlia was shaking her head, but the corner of her mouth flicked up into a smirk. Turning back to the battle, she saw a series of fire balls shooting towards the little dancer.
"Dodge!"
In a flash of light, her psychic fairy type disappeared. Moments later the embers shot straight across the spot he once stood.
Reappearing at the side, the pure dragon type turned on a heel. Diving straight into her partner, the duo went tumbling across the ground.
The rock head Pokémon bite down hard on Ralts' shoulder. Standing up, she swung him left and right.
A wave of ESP shot out of her feelings Pokémon. Knocking the opponent back and blasting her through the rock she previously crashed into.
"Go Pokéball!"
Tossing an empty device at the pale blue dragon who laid flat on her stomach. A red light engulfed her and sucked her inside. It landed flat on the ground as her psychic fairy type fell onto his back with a sigh of relief. The device violently shook side to side.
Bursting open into hundreds of little bits, Bagon came flying out. Landing straight on her partner, she glew with a red outline as she stomped away in anger.
Curling up into a call, Ralts cried out in pain. Closing her eyes, she tried to reach out to his mind, knowing it'll be more effective than verbal commands.
"Calm down, Ralts. I know it hurts but we need an opening," she calmly instructed, "open your eyes. And when you can, use confusion to blow Bagon back."
She opened her eyes and narrowed her gaze. Ralts weakly peaked open his own eyes. Chewing on her inner cheek, she tried to find some sort of opening from her viewpoint to help him. A blue dot appeared at the centre of his pupils, bursting out in a full shield.
Raising up from the ground, he lifted their opponent up with him. Several balls of psychic type energy formed around them.
A bright light engulfed the feelings Pokémon as his body changed. The balls flew forward and knocked Bagon away. His body grew and changed shape, landing back on the ground, the glowing stopped, revealing him to look like his sister... but slightly shorter, but not by much.
Taking out a Pokéball, she tossed it at the downed dragon type. Sucking her inside, it began violently shaking. She quickly used her Pokédex instead:
Kirlia, The Emotion Pokémon. The evolved form of Ralts. Kirlia uses the horns on its head to amplify its psychokinetic power. When the Pokémon uses its power, the air around it becomes distorted, creating mirages of non-existent scenery
Type: Psychic / Fairy
Ability: Synchronize
Hidden Ability: Telepathy (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Male
Nature: Jolly
Move(s): Growl, Disarming Voice, Double Team, Confusion, Hypnosis, Draining Kiss, Teleport, Shock Wave, Psyshock
As she put the device away, the Pokéball smashed open. Bagon went flying towards her newly evolved partner instead.
Spinning to the side, the pure dragon type crashed into the ground where he once stood. Flowing through his movement, sparks jumped off his feet as he swirled around their opponent. Bolts of electricity jumped up from his feet, like a reverse thunderstorm.
Bagon pushed herself up, glancing around at the new prison she found herself in. She charged forward, crashing into a bolt of lightning, and rebounding back.
Multiple Kirlia appeared within the circle as their opponent growled, glancing between them. She smiled at the display, already picturing the possible routines.
"Now finish it with confusion!" she hollered.
All the Kirlia's eyes glew blue and the bolts of rotating electricity were consumed by them. The tops of them turned inward and shot straight down.
A charred Bagon went flying through the cage. Landing right in front of her. She frowned at the sight, the little one sure has a lot of heart. Taking out an Ultra ball from her bag, she tossed it down and watched it engulf the dragon type once more.
Landing on the floor it shook back and forth. Holding her breath, she watched it. Each shake seeming to take longer and longer. After what felt like an eternity, it stopped and dinged. Releasing a breath, she crouched low and picked the device up. Using her Pokédex, she scanned her new capture:
Bagon, The Rock Head Pokémon. Bagon is a solitary Pokémon that doesn't form groups with others of its kind. It also has a head hard enough to cleave a boulder in one strike. A common dream among this Pokémon is to one day fly. It'll even throw itself off a cliff edge.
Type: Dragon
Ability: Rock Head
Hidden Ability: Sheer Force (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Rash (Note: This could change when this Pokémon evolves)
Move(s): Ember, Leer, Bite, Dragon Breath, Headbutt, Scary Face, Dragon Claw, Zen Headbutt, Focus Energy, Thrash
Serena's Pokédex switched screens to a list of her current on hand team. All the images except for Kirlia were full colour but given he just evolved; she wasn't about to send him back. "Please select which Pokémon you wish to send back."
She quickly ran through her options. While she didn't want to consider doing this, it seems the best option right now was Zangoose. She's struggling to find a good time to even feed him without walking away from the others whilst Seviper sleeps. Maybe for the time being, they'll be best rotating them opposite to each other... at least until Zangoose is ready for his truth. With a heavy sigh, she hit the normal type's image.
"Welcome to the team," she smiled.
Standing back up, she put the device away. She couldn't help but wide her grin at the thought of the little rascal she just caught. It's a little weird, she thought taking on showcases would encourage her to team to be more of the docile or performance based and while that's certainly true in terms of Kirlia, her two newest members are battler's through and through. Not that she minds, all her Pokémon are special in their own way.
While her mind was focused on the psychic fairy type, she turned to see him chatting with his sister. She couldn't help but smile as Ash's own emotions Pokémon seemed to berate her little brother but with clear signs of admiration. She couldn't help but feel pride swell for her little dancer.
"Well done, girl," the elder drew her out of her thoughts, "now if you'd be so kind, follow me."
"Where too?" she asked.
"To heal Bagon, of course, they dream of flying and so they tend to get roughed up along the way," she explained, "Salamence make partners for life. They remain completely loyal to their trainer. Which is why they tend to be so fussy about who they choose... I want to make sure you know what you're in for."
Silently following her, she figured it couldn't help. After all, every Pokémon is different so a little info on her new team member couldn't hurt.
They soon made it to a small settlement within a cave. A pile of leaves and straws were piled up with in a sort of nest with a smuggering pile of firewood, clearly not long having been put out. The elder gestured towards the nest and took a seat on one side. She took out her ultra-ball and sat opposite her, releasing her newly caught dragon into the makeshift bed.
Taking out a small clay pot, she crushed up some sort of herbs with a bold rock. Pouring in a small amount of water, she opened the sleeping dragon's mouth.
"There," she smiled, "give it a few minutes and she'll be energised. Ready to fight again."
"Erm, no offence but that seemed pretty similar to helping heal most Pokémon," she replied, "I thought you'd show something more specific to Bagon. Like how my Sylveon uses her feelers to inspect new things, so they need brushing twice as much as the rest of her. Or how Meditite meditates most of the time so she can survive with minimum food throughout the day."
"I knew you'd be a good trainer for Bagon, wanting to know what's best for her," the elder smiled, "so I'll share. Bagon, more than most species, are one with nature. They'll take herbs and other natural treatments over the man-made stuff any day."
"Right, thank you," she bowed, "can I also ask what you know about this Bagon? I mean, I never really interacted with her before the battle. I'm not sure why she picked me."
"Only Bagon can answer that," she sighed, "but I will say, they tend to pick partner's they have something in common with."
Brock stretched out as he stood on top of a white cliff, overlooking the crystal-clear waterfall. Seeing the shimmer of the water as it settled below, he guessed it must be some of the most nutritious nature water around. Given the location it's in, he wouldn't be surprised in the slightest.
With a smile on his face, he brought out a Pokéball. Pressing the middle button, his shiny rock bug type materialised right in front of him. As he put the device away, he took out another one. Releasing the second Pokémon, Solrock appeared floating above him.
"Hey guys," he smiled, "there's meant to be some herbs that grow around here with some unique properties. And I'd like to use them with your potion-making abilities because it's meant to be the best medication to deal with sinuses. What do you guys say?"
"Shuckle, shuck," his elderly Pokémon nodded.
"I too would enjoy this search," Solrock nodded.
"ckle?" the yellow head tilted to the side.
"Ah, my apologises," his newest team member added, "there. Now we should all be able to communicate through our minds."
"Thank you... erm, I'm sorry, I don't believe we've had the pleasure," Shuckle greeted.
"I am Solrock. Our trainer, Brock, caught me earlier," the rock psychic type replied, "and please. The pleasure is all mine."
Smiling at the two wise Pokémon conversing, he turned around and started his search for the herbs. As he scanned the white-mountain landscape, he caught the mental chatter between the two dual rock types. Spotting some of the herbs growing on top of the cliff, he started climbing the rockslide. He barely made it a foot of the floor before Solrock floated beside him. Releasing a psychic wave, he was lifted up to the herb with Shuckle.
Kneeling down, he picked it out of the ground and took out a bowl from his backpack. Using a rock to grind it up, he picked up his mold Pokémon and poured it inside the purple shell. Using several corks on the remaining holes, he listened to the rock bug type explain the process to his newest team member.
"Fascinating," Solrock mused, as he floated around. Stopping in place, the rock psychic type turned around with the stoic pupils narrowing slightly, "Brock... I believe we're not alone around here."
"Who's coming to find us?" he asked, "Serena? I know Sakura, May, Ash and Max are training so unless it's an emergency, I doubt it's them."
"It's none of your previous companions that we encounter," Solrock replied, "nor is it those draconid people. I am unaware of their identity and that is why I ask your permission to read their thoughts."
"I thought you did that anyway," he replied, "I mean, that's what you said back when we met the first time."
"True, but I am now a part of your group," the rock psychic type replied, "I do not wish to do something that might contradict our companions beliefs or own actions."
"For now, let's try and get closer," he suggested, "we don't know who they are. Probably some trainers passing through, training or looking for a Pokémon."
Carrying the part bug type as his meteorite Pokémon floated beside him, they moved along the narrow pathway. His eyes widened and he dived behind a rock as he saw the large Aqua admin, along with a couple grunts down on the lower level, next to the water. A powerful Gyarados loomed over them from the water as a couple Corphish and a Tentacruel stood in front of the grunts. Bringing out his binoculars from his pocket, he used them to look closer.
The image of two magma grunts lying on the floor caught his attention with some knocked out Numel. They appeared to be in distress but something else caught his eye. Scanning closer to the water poison type, he noticed a very familiar mark on one of the red spots on top of the head.
"It can't be," he mumbled.
"It is very concerning, I admit," Solrock replied.
"Wait, what?" he turned to the rock psychic type, "what do you mean?"
"The people in red... they are being asked questions about some plans," Solrock explained, "their colleagues appear to be up on mount chimney. Trying to connect to the legendary Pokémon Groundon... surely, they can't be right."
"I've got a feeling it is correct," Brock sighed, standing up, "come on, we've got to get back to the others."
"How come?" Solrock asked.
He pulled out his Pokéball and recalled the rock bug type, "because they are dangerous criminals. Whatever they are up to, can't be good."
His newest team member nodded and the eyes glew with psychic type energy. Feeling the tingle engulf him, the two of them went flying over the nearby cliff and away from the two groups. As they closed in, he noticed his friends spread out over the mountainous area. He landed and took a deep breath.
"Everyone!" he shouted. They gathered in a circle, recalling most of their Pokémon, "we need to call the police. Team Aqua and Magma are here."
"Right," Sakura nodded, pulling out her Pokegear. He glanced to the side and noticed Ash him switching through his Pokédex.
"What were they doing Brock?" Serena asked.
"Aqua seemed to have beaten Magma and were forcing answers out of them," he explained, "they weren't answering but Solrock read their minds. And explained that Magma are up to something on mount chimney."
"Isn't it a little morally grey?" Sakura asked, holding the device up to her ear, "reading someone's thoughts without permission?"
"I think that's why the police don't just use psychic types for questioning," Serena replied, "but if it's going to stop something bad and doesn't negatively affect the person. Why not?"
"It just seems invasive to me. Espeon and I have had mental conversations but we both consented," she shrugged, her eyes widening, and she ended up walking a little bit away, "oh, hello. I'd like to speak to the police. I've got information on the gangs known as Team Aqua and Team Magma."
"Look!" Max exclaimed, pointing towards the mountain which stuck up in the sky.
Turning towards the direction the young boy was pointing, he found clouds of black smoke pluming out of the top of the mountain. A flash appeared next to him. In a flash of light, Ash's second caught Pokémon materialised next to them with wings spread and a loud cry. The raven-haired boy ran up to her back as she crouched low.
"What are you doing, Ash?!" May asked.
"We can't just stand around!" he shouted, "clearly whatever they are doing. It's already underway. Last time I didn't do something when I could've, I ended up losing a good friend! I can't let someone else go through that if I can help it!"
"But it's not your job to deal with them," Max added, "we were caught up at Devon, Oceanic Museum and at the fair but-"
"It's no use," he shook his head, placing a hand on his little brother-figures shoulder, "once Ash has his mind set on something, he'll follow it through."
"But-"
"Aren't you going to try and stop him, Serena?" May asked.
The raven-haired boy quickly climbed onto the back of his large bird. While the honey-blonde girl ran up behind them, turning to face the younger trainer's, with a reassuring smile, "actually, I'm gonna go with him."
The couple shared a single stare before she climbed onto the large bird behind him. With Pidgeot standing back up, she took a long run across the ground, she flapped her wings. Jumping off the ground, she quickly ascended at a steep hundred-and-twenty-degree angle, turning towards the large volcano.
"How could we just let them go?" Max asked.
"Sakura is on the phone with the police," Brock crouched low to the boy's eye level, "when they show up. We'll be right on alongside them. Trust me, they know what they're doing, and we've got some experience with this sort of thing. I'm sure they'll be fine."
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...