Author's Note:
Here it is, the last chapter before the Fortree arc begins and an introduction to a new capture. This Pokémon I've been told to give to pretty much everyone in the main group, but I like the idea of who I gave it too. Not initially a partnership which you'd think would work. This is a pretty basic idea of how to introduce a Pokémon, but I hope it's enjoyable. I mainly wanted to give the spotlight to the new addition. We also get to see a returning mon from the lab... who? Well, you'll see. Also wanted to try something unique with this Pokémon which'll be expanded up further with future Pokémon and other characters in the future. I'm also still taking nickname suggestions for Max's Treecko, I've already had a few but undecided so you still have time. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.
Chapter Fifty-Two: Iron Giant
Taking a deep breath, the fresh mountain air coursed through his body. Feeling the electric tingle of the morning sun reflect off his body, he stretched the two metal arms out. Spinning around under the beautiful Hoenn sky, he set off around the forest which he called home.
Floating above the grassy field, he soon found the small family which made up his neighbours. The two Linoone were lying down on the grass as their child Zigzagoon ran around in a game of tag. Passing by the two fully-evolved parents, the father peaked one eye open and gave a small nod. He was a mon of few words but after getting use to his arrival in the forest, they got to know each other. He floated past towards the kids who froze and stared at him.
"Uncle Metang!"
Laughing as the three normal types tackled into him. He landed on the ground and two of them landed on his head while the other swirled around his arms in a hug. Of course, they weren't actually strong enough to hurt him yet but he's happy to pretend and just get the affection... a loud grumble roared.
"Hehehe, guess I'm still hungry." One of the Zigzagoon on his head mareepishly chuckled.
"Your always hungry." His older sister retorted from his arms.
"Now, now, your brother's a growing mon," he replied, levitating himself up into the air. She carefully clutched onto his arm and skilfully climbed up to her two brothers on his head. Turning around, he soon spotted a tree of sitrus berries overhead. Letting out a weak cry wave of psychic type energy, he picked three of the berries and hovered them over to the young ones. It didn't take long to hear the sounds of them munching down on the snack.
"You three, get off Metang whilst you're eating," their mother's voice echoed, "it's very rude of you too-"
He turned around to face her, lowering himself down to the ground so they could safely jump off. Seeing them land and instantly devour their snack, he did the equivalent of a smile and floated back up. Looking her directly in the eye, "you know I don't mind. They're kids you know."
"Maybe but my kids will learn respect."
"Yes ma'am," he nodded, "now sorry but I did tell Tropius I'd visit today but I'll be back later to play, alright kids?!"
"Bye Uncle Metang!"
Feeling tears sting his eyes, he gave a small nod and turned, setting off back across the forest land. A warm bubbling tingle of electricity filling his heart, while he never really knew his own family, this adoptive one is more than he could've ever asked for. Continuing along his past, he used his psychic abilities to wipe the tears from his eyes. A soft melody caught his attention and he found himself at a lone tree, where a flock of Swablu & Altaria nested.
Floating up and down in rhythm with the song, he softly hummed along. One small Swablu soared down, carrying the tune with her as she did. Landing on his head, she finished up with a strong pitch. Bringing his metal arms together, he gave her the best clap he could.
"Your voice is as beautiful as ever, Swablu," he praised.
"Thank you, Uncle Metang!" she beamed, "and just you wait. One of these days I'll find a trainer whose gonna make me a big star, just like Lisia and Ali!"
"I look forward to hearing you on one of those... radio-things that the humans use," he praised, "you'll do great."
"Hehehe, radios are so old-fashioned silly," she giggled, "we're gonna be on the big screen. On all the news coverage and-"
"Alright, that's enough dear," her father, an Altaria swooped down, "I'm sure Metang has some place to be, and you still haven't brushed your wings this morning."
"But daddy-"
"Come on Swablu, you should listen to him," he added, "you wouldn't want this human your gonna preform with pass you up because of unkept wings."
"Urg, fine," she groaned, taking off back into the tree.
"Thank you, Metang," her father bowed.
"Don't mention it," he nodded.
Turning around, he set off once more and transversed through the forest. Realising the time, he already spent with everyone he passed so far, he knew Tropius was probably bored. One should always make time to visit their elders, filled with wisdom. Passing by the Kecleon brother's, he did consider joining in their game of hide and seek but he knew he couldn't let his friend wait any longer than needed so with a heavy heart, he just passed by.
As he reached the larger palm trees which marked the elder's home, he saw his friend stood tall with his long neck reaching up to munch on some of the fruit that dangled down. Approaching from the front, the grass flying type smiled and relaxed down in front of him. Taking the hint, he sat down in front of him.
"I see you managed to make it today, Metang."
"Hehehe, sorry Tropius," he chuckled nervously, "I got distracted along the way-"
"Knowing you, it was probably by all the others who made their homes between mine and yours," Tropius smiled, "so tell me, how are they all?"
With a deep breath, he went on to explain how the Zigzagoon family was getting on, and how quickly the trio were growing up. He could remember the day they hatched to think the little ones he saw earlier we're once that small... too precious-
"-and Swablu is really excited about possibly finding a human to perform with."
"What about you, Metang?" Tropius asked, "have you considered finding a human for yourself?"
"I... don't know," he uttered, "I mean, I'm not against it. If I find one nice enough but-"
"Not all humans are like the stories of old," he replied, "remember I once had a human of my own and he was the best friend I could ask for. Spending day and night on the farmland, growing fruit for the kids. Those were the days."
"I bet-"
A crack of thunder echoed through the forest, and a single bolt of lightning shot up into the sky. Levitating himself back into the air, he turned to the source and narrowed his eyes. After the bolt faded, he turned to the grass flying type.
"That can't be good... maybe a pack of Manectric came looking for trouble again," he muttered.
"Well not if I can help it," he declared, "sorry Tropius but I've-"
"No, no, of course," he replied, "go quick before one of our friends are hurt."
Giving his older friend a small nod, he took off in the direction of the thunderbolt. Zooming through the trees, careful not to crash into any of the wildlife which covered his path forward. Stopping behind a tree-trunk, he noticed a wide-open field with two weird crystal things in the centre. One was purple colour and had an orb surrounding it with electricity jumping through it. The second was a deep-sea blue colour with the orb looking more like a giant water bubble. A couple Electrike were stuck inside the first and some Marill were stuck inside the second one.
Narrowing his eyes, he turned and charged at the second one first. His arms shimmered with a tense metal coating.
At his top speed, he broke his way into the shield and slowed down due to the water-inside. Continuing forward, he crashed into the blue crystal.
Releasing a psychic wave, it ripped the casing off the gem. His metal body crushing it under his weight. The bubble burst and the water drenched the ground beneath them. The Marill shaking themselves dry as he turned towards the first gem he noticed. Shaking his body, he glanced around.
Two humans could be seen, one guy and one girl. The guy seemed very muscular with short blonde hair, and the girl had long silver hair. Dressed in some futuristic grey armor, each with some sort of portable computer in hand.
His metal claws tingled with electricity, and he spread the same current through his entire body.
Charging forward at his top speed, he burst through the semi-transparent orb. A weird, electrified feeling engulfing his body with bolts attacking him.
Closing in on the centre, he smashed into the metal casing. Breaking some of the bars, he raised himself directly above the crystal.
Slamming himself down with all his might, the ground shook beneath him. Lifting himself up and slamming back down, he repeated the move.
Wincing from the sparks jumping around him, he released how stupid he was to go to the water one first. Grunting in pain, he continued his smashing.
Hearing a crunching sound finally, he glanced around. Seconds past which felt like hours. Cracks of electricity surrounded him. Engulfing his body, he cried out and flew upwards. His vision vibrating from the intense charge, everything turning red around him. An unbearable torturing every cell in his body.
Spinning on his axis, he released a powerful psychic wave. Blowing trees over and pushing the wild Pokémon away.
Tears stinging his eyes from the immense pain coursing through him. He spun back to the humans, eyes locking on them and their tech.
Charging forward at his top speed. He smashed into their large grey truck. Bursting through, it exploded in a fiery display.
Two more trucks turned up and several humans dressed the same ran out. Releasing his psychic energy, he pick them up, throwing them backwards.
Locking the two arms together, a bright metal ball formed between them. Firing the beam out, it destroyed all in his path. Letting out a loud cry as the remaining trucks blew up, he spun and shot off into the forest... he needs something to stop this pain!
Using his psychic force to push all that stood in his path out of his way. Unable to register anyone who might've been nearby.
Ash smiled as he glanced around the makeshift campsite. They were only taking a short break for lunch, but it was more than enough time to get some training in. Brock was busy at the cooking pot with his Trapinch, Lombre & Electrike as Leaf helped set the table and lay out the bowls for the Pokémon.
Turning around, he continued to scan the rest of their group. Max was over with both Ozone and his Treecko. Torkoal was helping them with something, if he had to guess, fighting in strong sun light given it's his speciality. The newest member of the young boy's team was even in the sun form, trying to shoot out fire balls, which his own pure fire type was demonstrating perfectly. Both himself and his starter giving the new member some moral support.
The sounds of combat drew his attention. He saw Swellow locked in a close combat with both Zangoose & Vigoroth, skilfully using her wings to duck and dive between their claws whilst delivering her own powerful blows. With none of the three holding back against each other.
Nearby, he spotted Solrock working with Duskull on his psychic move. While Seviper battled against Bagon on the far side of the campsite. Between them he noticed both Serena's Dustox and Kirlia working on some sort of performance. Gary was using his Arcanine to battle both Grovyle and Lairon at once.
He spotted his girlfriend sat down with her Cacnea, as Crawdaunt stood nearby. His newly evolved Pokémon was still getting use to his new form, not being nearly as acrobatic as he was before but he also lacked the weight for pure strength or defence like Lairon despite similar body sizes. Smiling at the sight, he made his way over to them and took a seat, "-so there's nothing for you to worry about."
"Mind if I get caught up?" he asked. The pure grass type glanced at him for a long time, before turning back to Serena. Giving her a small nod, a wide smile overtook his face. Leaping into her, he noticed his girlfriend use her psychic powers to carefully give him a hug.
"I don't know if you noticed at the weather institute but-"
"Cacnea held off his evolution?" he finished, "yeah. I guessed that's what you was talking about. So, I wanted to see you'd like me to bring Venusaur over, since he kinda-you know."
"Thanks for the offer, Ash," she replied, leaning over to peck his cheek before resting her head on his shoulder, "but I don't think so."
"You sure?" he asked, running a hand through her hair.
"Yeah," she replied, "Cacnea was telling me the reason why he held it off. He didn't want to lose our connection and ability to mentally talk."
"I can understand that," he smiled. Placing a hand on her cheek and tilting her head until their lips connected, "I'd have an issue if I couldn't speak to you either. Makes total sense."
She giggled cutely at him before pecking his lips once more. Pulling back from the embrace, she jumped up, still using her powers to hold the cactus Pokémon in her arms. He quickly leaped down and turned to look up at him.
"It just means I need to double down on learning Miracle Eye," she replied, "I was getting pretty close with Murkrow but I'm unsure how much it was my powers and how much was just knowing her so my mind filling in the missing part."
"Well, Crawdaunt is part dark type now so you can try with him," he opted, turning towards the water dark type, "come here for a moment, Crawdaunt!"
Said Pokémon quickly walked over, moving at roughly the same speed. While he was bigger, the size seemed to slow him down, so it evened out. Once he was within range, they explained the situation to him.
"Ya wa fi mek it intimate between wi aye?" his newly evolve rouge Pokémon asked.
"On second thought, I can always call over Houndoom instead."
Serena opened her mouth to ask something, but no words came out. Hearing the voice of Brock announcing dinner, all four of them decided to leave the conversation where it was. Joining the others for dinner, there was a light conversation between them all. Part of Ash felt the absence of May, mainly when his girlfriend brought up her plans for the Fortree but with both Gary and Leaf here, he just enjoyed their company.
Soon everyone finished and they cleaned up the campsite. Walking along the mountain path, he smiled at the sight of Max leading the route with his two Pokémon beside him in some sort of game. He really could see himself acting in the same way at his age... or even now if he were being honest.
"I wonder what's going on," Leaf commented.
Turning to where she was pointing, he noticed a trail of trees battered, broken, and burnt. Half trunks stuck out of the ground, with the tops lying on the ground next to them, splintered edges sticking out. Some piles of soot and scorch marks dressing the ground.
"And there's a police barricade," Brock added. Turning ahead, he noticed yellow tap spread across the path ahead and some officers, including an officer Jenny, stood around. Glancing between his companions, they all seemed in agreement and approached the female officer.
"Sorry kids but this path has been deemed too dangerous for now," she informed, "we're awaiting a league representative to help out before we can allow any of you to pass. You'll just need to wait here."
"Can we ask what's going on?" Gary asked.
"Certainly," she nodded, "a wild Metang started going on a rampage but we're not sure why. Given it's a pseudo legendary and the damage already caused, we're not taking any risks."
"Metang..." he mused, "hey Max, wasn't that one of Hoenn's pseudo legendries or something?"
"It'll evolve into Metagross whose a pseudo legendary," the boy added, as he pulled out his Pokédex. Skimming through the device to find what he was looking for, "why. What'cha think Ash?"
"Well, they need someone to help and we wanna get to Fortree," he shrugged, placing a Pokéball on top of the device. In a small flash of light, the round device disappeared before an Ultra Ball appeared right in the same spot, "so why not solve to issues with one go."
"I already told you kid; we're waiting for a strong league representative-"
"Officer Jenny, I was in the final of the silver conference last year and won the Orange league before that," he pleaded, "just give us a chance to-"
"Unless you've got a Salamence in that Ultra ball."
"Well, she's not a Salamence but-" He held the device out. Pressing the centre button, a red light shot to the side and his own, fully evolved, pseudo legendary materialised. He couldn't help but smirk as he saw stars in Max's eyes as he stared up to her. She glanced over everyone before landing her sight on him.
"Yes?" she asked.
"Pseudo legendary, pre-evolved, on a rampage. Due to strength, danger they're close to evolution," he summarised, "and a steel psychic type. Think you can handle it?"
"I'm insulted you need to ask."
"Great!" He smiled.
Turning back to the officer Jenny, he saw her slightly away on a radio. It was barely a minute before she put the device down and returned. "Okay, my superior is willing to give Dragonite the chance since the longer we wait, the higher the risk. I'll take her Pokéball and-"
"She will not," Dragonite scoffed, crossing her arms, "I never picked this pencil in a short skirt as my trainer. And I won't entertain the joke of listening to her."
"Erm, Officer, we might have an issue with that," he spoke up, drawing the officer's attention, "Dragonite isn't willing to listen to just... anyone."
"Well, we can't let her loose without guidance," she crossed her arms, "one pseudo causing damage is more than enough."
"I fail to see the issue here," Dragonite replied, "your my trainer. I'll simply take you into battle instead of this person."
"Dragonite wants me to take her into battle," he translated for the officer. She crossed her arms and eyed him for what felt like forever. Standing on the edge of his toes, he felt a cool sweat form on his forehead. Eyes darting around her quizative glare for some sort of clue to her thoughts.
"Let me check your Pokédex." She held her hand out. Swallowing hard, he reached into his pocket and handed the red rectangle device over. Chewing on his inner cheek, he watched her flick through the machine. After reading the screen, she sighed and handed it back.
"Fine but I'm sending some officers to keep track of you," she replied, "if it gets too dangerous, they'll pull you back. Understand?"
Nodding and putting the device back into his pocket, he noticed the dragon flying type crouching down. Without needing further instructions, he climbed onto her back, and she stood tall. He couldn't help but notice Serena, Gary, Brock and even Leaf grabbing their own Pokéballs.
"Hang on kids, your friend is going because he has Dragonite," Officer Jenny explained, "but the rest of you are staying here. I'm not about to let a group run wild during this situation."
"But-"
"It'll be fine guys," he reassured, cutting them off, "and ya'll know how tough Dragonite is... we'll be back in no-time."
Dragonite made a grunting noise. Entering a stance for take-off.
"Oh, and just to give you a fair warning officer Jenny," he added, tightening his hold on his mighty dragon, "you might wanna find cover. Dragonite likes to fight in the rain so-"
Using his foot to signal his queen Pokémon. She kicked up off the ground, finding both of them about fifteen feet off the ground. She turned horizontal and shot over the police barricade. The rushing wind blowing against his face as he struggled to hold on.
He wobbled on his legs as he stood back on the solid ground. Dragonite only flew for about two minutes, but she wasn't nearly as comfortable as Pidgeot. It also didn't help that her speed made holding on more difficult. Shaking his head, he leaned against a mostly destroyed tree trunk for support.
Looking out over the open field they landed on the outskirts off, he noticed what he presumed was their opponent. A robotic Pokémon with a teal, metallic coating floated in the wide-open circle. The body was a disc-shape with a pair of flat, grey spikes on either side towards the rear. With a larger grey spike sticking out of the middle of the face, almost like a nose. Red eyes sat either side, residing in two holes within the metallic skin. The only limbs it appeared to have were two thick arms attached to either side of the body. They were considerably thicker below the elbow and had a flat, blunt protrusion extending from the joints and had three metal claws on the ends. Stretched out in front of him, a silver ball formed, a massive flash canon burst out in a path of destruction.
"I'm going to go out on a limb and presume that's who were sent to battle," his orange dragon commented.
"I think so."
She closed her eyes and he stared at her calm expression. The sky behind her turned into a darkening cloud with a roar of thunder matching the point her eyes opened with a slightly narrowed brow. A slow patter of rain droplets fell, entering a light shower within a minute. Smirking back to her, he gave a nod.
Dragonite jumped off the ground and charged out into the open field. Her tail spewed with water surrounding it. Spinning overhead, it slammed down.
Metang crashed into the ground as she stood in front of her opponent. He moved to the side to get a better view of the action.
The steel psychic type shot forward, punching her legs as it created distance. Revealing the creator in the ground from the initial impact.
Flapping her wings to keep herself up, she turned and charged after the opponent. The two entering a race around the outskirts of the makeshift field.
A bright ball of psychic energy formed in front of the face spike. Bursting open, it radiated around the wild Pokémon as his dragon closed the gap.
She coated herself in a dark blue flame of dragon type energy. Burning red eyes burst through as the two Pokémon crashed into each other. Flying around each other as they travelled across ground. Each impact sending a shockwave out from their impact.
"Dragonite!" He cupped his mouth with his hands, stepping from the treeline, running to catch up, "we have to keep the battle here and contained!"
The dragon rush exploded into a fiery display as she shot ahead. Disappearing in the blink of an eye as Metang continued along their path.
An orange blur appeared circling the steel psychic type. Powerful gusts of wind blew out, distorting the rain as he came to a stop middle of the open field.
Crossing his arms in front of the face, he noticed a tornado form around them. Filling with the same dark-blue flame of dragon type energy. The force blew him back and he landed on his behind from the force. Peeking out through the rain-blurred vision, he saw the pre-evolved pseudo fly out.
Crashing across the ground, leaving dents in the earth with each impact. Metang landed in a self-created creator as Dragonite revealed flying over him.
"Yield now," she commanded, flying slowly towards their opponent.
Metang's eyes burst open, burning bright red. A wave of ESP shot out and struck his queen-Pokémon who froze mid-air. Grunting against the psychic attack.
The metal claws shimmered with a silver coating. Shooting up out of the creator, their opponent crashed into her with tremendous force.
With the initial impact landing directly on her stomach, knocking the wind out. Punch after punch, she took blows to the chest, throat, chin, and shoulder. Each blow knocking her further back as they entered an assault which would make Primeape proud.
"Thunder wave!" he shouted.
Her antennas stood on end, sparks bouncing around them. The thin bolts leaping down to the metal titan.
Transforming the bullet punch into one of thunder, the claw collided into the status move. Absorbing it into the thunder punch, she was struck in the jaw.
Crashing downwards into the ground, the steel psychic type turned to face her. Holding the iron arms out, a bright ball formed at point-blank range.
A powerful flash canon struck down and sent her flying sideways. Struggling to his feet through the muddy field, he ran over. The queen pushing herself up with cuts and scratches covering her body. Rain flooding down her face with a burning rage in her eyes. A strike of lightening colouring the sky.
"I! WILL NOT! LOSE! AGAIN!"
His feet stopped in their tracks, her pure rage being one he hadn't noticed before. Even when angered by others like Sandslash, she remained regal and in control. He couldn't help but flash back to the last time she face an opponent anywhere similar to this... Hunter J's Salamence.
Rocketing up into the sky, she tackled the iron giant into the sky. Both disappearing among the pure black rain cloud.
He covered his eyes as a bolt of bright blue lightening engulfed the duo. A massive roar broke through the area. The bolt shot down onto the ground and he dived backwards, being blown over by the force. Landing on his back as mud went splashing in all directions.
Glancing up, he noticed a red psychic shield form around them. Expanding out in an electric ball, the bright flash almost blinded him.
Covering his eyes from the blur. An electrical explosion banged. A constant buzzing crept his hearing as he saw the two Pokémon fall down. Pushing himself up, he noticed Dragonite land on her stomach as the wild pseudo caught himself, levitating just above her.
Running over to the downed dragon flying type, he noticed her sneer with her mud-covered face. Pushing herself up with her front arms, she grimaced as the stoic expression steel psychic type stared down on her. Turning around, their opponent started flying away.
"Wait! Metang!" he cried out. Passing by his Pokémon, he ran underneath the opponent and stood in front of him, holding his arms out, "why are you doing this?! What did the Pokémon in this forest ever do to you?!"
A low buzzing crept out of the robotic Pokémon. Flinching his brow down, he noticed the pre-evolved pseudo squeeze his own eyes shut, vibrating back and forth. Frowning at the reaction, he closed his own eyes. Taking a deep breath, his chest raised and lowered with the controlled pace. Relaxing his arms, despite the patter of rain over his skin, he felt his inner power flow through his veins.
Fear... betrayal and sadness.
Those were the main feeling flooding inside him. Although he quickly realised, they belonged to the numerous residence of the forest. Biting down on his inner cheek, he focused his attention forward. The hairs on his arms stood tall at the immense eruption from within
Darkness covered the entire area, not even the rain could be felt any longer, nor the wind. He looked straight ahead and found the metal pseudo floating in front of him. With each step, a crack of lightening flashed. Snapshots of the day. Metang playing with Zigzagoon, listening to a Swablu sing... even having a sun-side chat with a Tropius.
Ending up in front of the wild Pokémon, he saw a flash of two familiar looking crystals. A bang happened and a surge of electricity flooded through his body.
Crippling down onto one knee, he tried to hold himself. His eyes squeezed shut as it felt like his organs were ripped apart from the inside. He tried to breath, but no breath dared enter his body. A dead feeling entered his arms as tears stung his eyes. He felt the colour drain from every cell in his body as he stared up. His eyeline meeting the burning red stoic eyes of the iron clawed Pokémon
"Help me... please."
The male voice was meek and almost silent. He could only compare it to that of a young child, asking for help to find their child.
Blinking. He found himself back on the field. The soaking feeling of his cloths and light rain still drenching his body. Looking up, he found the same expression buried within the psychic steel types red eyes. Swallowing hard at the intense feelings washing over his body, he tried to stand up.
"I will Metang," he whispered, his leg wobbling from the weakness as he tried to stand, "I promise."
The iron claw Pokémon stretched out his metal arm and whacked him in the side. Sending him flying sideways, he slide on his stomach within the sludgy rain.
Feeling his eyes get heavy, he noticed his orange dragon stand over him. Glancing down, he watched the pre-evolved pseudo float away, deeper into the forest... darkness overcame his vision as he slumped down into the ground which made his resting spot.
Max smiled as he rubbed the cloth over his glasses. Once happy both lenses were clear, he put them back on. The light spots of water hitting them once more almost instantly. Ignoring the minor inconvenience for now, he glanced over to his two Pokémon.
Castform was in her water form thanks to the light rain. She was floating around, launching out short bursts of water in straight shots.
Each one attempting to land on his starter, Treecko. He continued to jump around in an evasive manner.
He was working on the former's accuracy and ability to attack whilst floating around. While she knew a few moves with each form, from what he's seen, she lacked any sort of physical practise before meeting. Whilst his wood gecko worked on his dodging ability. Being a speedy acrobat-fighter, he needed to master his ability on the feet and being under the slippery weather condition only helped test him further.
A loud banged echoed. Turning towards the direction their friend flew off and a massive bolt of lightning struck down over the tapped off area. His mouth dropped slightly as his two Pokémon approached up behind him. His hand was grabbed by his starter as Castform floated next to his head.
The bright bolt dispersed in the sky. A deafening silence echoed around them. Closing his mouth, he tried to swallow but couldn't due to dryness.
Feeling the rain stop hitting his skin, he turned to the side and found Serena. She was using her psychic abilities to block the weather, like a makeshift umbrella. He stared up at her, rolling his lips into his mouth.
"Come on Max, why not wait out the rain in the tent," she offered, "with the others."
"I-I've got my raincoat a-and we should keep training."
"I know you wanna get stronger, but this won't help anyone," she replied, grabbing his hand and lead him back into the tent. Sitting down in a circle, he noticed all the others. Brock had Electrike in his lap, while Gary had his Umbreon. Taking a seat, he glanced over to the blonde girl who sat next to him.
"Do you think Ash is alright?" he asked.
"I'm sure off it." She offered a small smile, "trust me. Before long he'll return with Metang, Dragonite and everyone else."
"H-how can, you be sure?" he stuttered, "there was this massive lightning strike a-and-"
"I'm sure because I love him," she replied.
"What difference does that make?" he blinked.
"All the difference in the world. Trust me. Torkoal actually told me something which I think explains it best." She closed her eyes and stared up to the inside of the tent. "To love someone is too worry when not with them but to trust they will be able to survive until your eyes next meet."
Biting down on his lower lip, he glanced down to his feet. Sat within his view was Castform. The words ringing in his ear as the image of his sister flashed in front of his eyes. Ever since she left, he's been worried about her and certain she's been lost and out of her depth. While they'd fight, he always considered them to be close as siblings but if what Serena said is true... he never had trust that she could handle things on her own without their help.
"Cheer up kid, if any of us really thought Ash was in danger do you think we'd be sat here?" Gary asked, causing him to look up, "I'd race off to join him in the fight with Arcanine. Boarder or not."
"B-but-"
"There for sitting on," he smirked, "and don't worry about the popo. It's easier to get forgiveness than permission so it'll be fine-"
"Don't teach him that." Leaf playfully hit his arm, causing a light chuckle to escape the spikey-haired boy's lips.
"My point stands, none of us would just hang around if we thought there was any danger to our friend," he shrugged, "I know waiting sucks but it's just part of the course. Nothing can be done now except wait. And besides, he's got Dragonite with him, so she'll do a better job of keeping him safe than most of us combined."
"Most?" he blinked.
"You've not seen how overprotective Serena can get when her teddy bear is threatened?" He smirked with a wink. Glancing over to the honey-blonde girl, he noticed her cheeks burst bright red, "just like a mother Ursaring protecting her Teddiursa cub."
"GARY!" She boomed.
Blinking away. He felt an aching sore over his body. Pushing himself up from the ground, he felt drying mud beneath his hands. The sky was still covered by a grey cloud, but no water fell. Wincing as he sat himself up, he glanced around.
Surrounding him was none other than Dragonite. She sat near him, looking up into the sky. A small campfire or burning pile of wood nearby. His stiff cloths feeling slightly warmer than they should be. Turning around, he found none other than Torkoal behind, "good to see you awake son."
"Wh-what're you doing out?" he asked, rubbing his head.
"I released him," Dragonite responded, "I figured he was the best chance to prevent you catching a cold. I also sent out your... Swellow, was it. To keep track of Metang. I can hear their battle from here so they shouldn't have gone too far."
"What about the others?" he asked, "Crawdaunt, Duskull and Seviper?"
"Yes, I also met them," she dismissed, turning her head, "once this is done, I believe we'll need to discuss your standards when encountering strays, Ashton, that fish imparticular disgusts me. Do you know what he suggested we-"
"Knowing Crawdaunt, I can guess," he nodded.
"He seems to take the saying, any hole is a goal, quite literally," Torkoal opted, "now might I ask what's been going on?"
"Didn't you tell him, Dragonite?" he asked.
"I believe it's not the job of a royal to perform menial tasks such as explanations," Torkoal replied, "
"I do like this one, he can stay," his dragon nodded.
"Much obliged," the coal Pokémon nodded, "I too am fond of your company."
"Alright, Torkoal, well long story short," he sighed, "there's a Metang on a rampage. I called Dragonite over to help but-"
"I let my guard down once and our trainer was hurt as a result," she interjected, "I won't make that mistake a second time."
The light patter of rain started up once more. "Now hang on Dragonite, we can't go in there looking for a battle once more."
"Swellow is already handling a battle until we catch up," the queen shrugged, standing up, "have I mentioned that I like her? She'll make a fine guard."
"Firstly, what do you need a guard for-"
"A queen always needs those who serve for her," she replied, "fight for queen and country."
"Here-here!" Torkoal added.
"And secondly," he drew the attention back, "we've gone about this the wrong way. We can't just try to knock Metang out. It'll only make matters worse!"
"I won't be trying," Dragonite sneered, "I promise you that."
"What I mean is," he took a deep breath, "Metang is in pain. I felt it."
"You was knocked out by his metal arm. That's the pain you felt," she replied, "so I'll-"
"No Dragonite!" he shouted. Wincing from the brief recoil over his soar body. Controlling his breathing, he tried to stand up and found the queen with one arm down. Nodding a silent thank you, he grabbed, and she pulled him up to his feet, "Metang is hurt. Something happened and they need help."
"I fail to see why I can't simply knock it out and you worry about getting 'em help after the fact," she replied.
"Because no-one else needs to get hurt," he replied. Rolling his lips into his mouth, he chewed down on his cheek. Briefly glancing up, his eyes caught hers for only a brief moment before falling back down. The pure fire type walked into his eyesight, looking up to force the visual connection.
"Why do you feel this strongly?" he asked, "you said he's been hurt... do you reconsign the pain?"
"Y-yeah... it was the same intense feeling Gyarados felt... back at the lake." His eyes glanced up and he noticed the dragon's brow relax slightly. Taking a deep breath, he glanced between the two before resting on her, "and I couldn't do anything for him back then... but I can for Metang... so I need to do this. Please help me."
"FIne," she sighed, "we can try it your way but-"
"But?" he questioned.
"But if your attacked again, that's the second strike," she replied, "and I'll resort back to the original plan."
Rolling his lips into his mouth, he silently nodded, knowing it was the best he'd get from her.
"Good," she smiled, "so tell us. What's the plan this time?"
He smirked, "well Torkoal, remember the Petalburg gym battle?"
"I believe I do."
Talking his plan through with the two Pokémon, both agreed. He quickly returned the fire type and climbed onto the dragons back. Preparing both Pokéballs in hand, he tightened his grip on the queen. With a slower take off than before, he noticed the light patter of rain still pouring down over them.
"You might also want to increase the rainfall," he added, "the more we can weaken Torkoal's heat, the better."
"You have a lot of confidence in his ability," she muttered.
Flying above the forest ground, he noticed the increased weather from above. A silver beam shot up out of the treeline a little bit away. Tightening his grip, they doubled down and came into view of the battle.
Metang had a silver shimmer over the iron arms. Swinging them around and smashing into trees as Swellow danced around him.
She smashed her own glowing wings into the iron skin. Neither side seemed to be winner or losing... only damaging the nature which made up the forest.
Holding the first device out, he quickly recalled his normal flying type. A fist smashed down into the ground, as she dematerialised from the impact.
The psychic steel type turned and took off away from them. Using psychic to push tree trunks and anything else in the path away.
Dragonite took off to keep up and once close enough, he pressed the centre button of the other device. A flash burst out and Torkoal materialised mid-air. He threw his weight down and landed square on the pre-evolved pseudo's back. Crashing him down into the dirt.
His Torkoal glew a bright red colour despite the rain hammering down over them. Waves of heat radiating off him as their opponent tried to float back up.
"Think you can make the rain even harder?"
"Just how powerful could his heat wave be?" She asked. The rain entering terenchal downpour levels.
"I'm not certain but I think hotter than both Charizard and Houndoom," he replied, "maybe even combined. He's full of surprises."
"Interesting," she muttered.
The psychic steel type slowly coming to a stop, turning around in surprise. Signalling his own pseudo legendary, she lowered down and landed in front of the two Pokémon. He slowly climbed off and walked forward. Noticing wide eyes from the iron claw Pokémon.
"Me-Metang?" he asked, "are you okay?"
"W-what... what did I do?"
"Alright, Torkoal, you can stop now," he muttered. The fire type nodded, losing his burning red colour. Walking to the side, he effortlessly jumped down off their once opponent. Walking closer to Metang, he noticed the wild Pokémon glancing around.
Following his eyeline, he noticed a family of Zigzagoon staring at him... before two Linoone came and shooed them away into the none-destroyed part of the forest. A flock of Swablu and Altaria taking off overhead. Two streams of tears flowing down the metal cheeks, one from each eye.
"It's okay, Metang, it's all over now," he whispered.
The psychic steel type turned towards him and threw himself at him. Wrapping the metal arms around his back, the steel cased Pokémon awkwardly nuzzled into his chest. Careful to avoid the spike-nose, he did his best to return the gesture, comfortingly rubbing the top of his head. The eyes turning a pale red.
"S-sorry. Your that h-human that I-" The voice creaking as a fresh flood of tears streamed down the metal cheeks. Recoiling back out of the embrace.
"It's alright, Metang, I know you was in pain, but you don't need to be in pain... not anymore," he replied, stepping closer, "it's all over."
"O-over... a-and I-... what am I gonna do?"
Sitting down next to the pre-evolved pseudo, he laid down on the grass. Feeling the bright sun break through the cloud line as the steel psychic type rested next to him. Frowning at the panic and regret radiating off the poor Pokémon, he reached up and rubbed his hand on top of the metal body.
"I know what it's like, Metang," he spoke up, "to have this power inside... be unable to control it and feel the regret of the action that it caused-"
"Catch me!"
"Wha-" he shot up, blinking in surprise as he turned to the wild Pokémon, "why Metang?"
"I hurt my friend... destroyed our home... I can't stay here a-and... I don't want to put the others wherever I go in danger."
"What about putting us in danger?" Dragonite frowned, stepping forward. Her shadow covered the iron claw Pokémon, causing him to shuffle behind his back.
"Calm down, Dragonite. Metang had no control over himself," he replied. Seeing her step back, he sighed and turned back to the psychic steel type.
"Sorry," the meke voice creeked.
"It's alright, Metang and I'll catch you," he nodded, "but I would like to know why?"
"W-well... you was able to stop me s-so I thought. You'd be able to stop me in the future... ya know, if something like this happens again."
"Okay then," he shrugged, letting a small smile rest upon his lips. Bringing out a Pokéball, he placed it on the ground in front of the iron claw Pokémon, "but let's make a deal. If you join us, then you let me help you learn to harness and control this power."
"B-but-... what if I lose control again?"
"Then we'll deal with it," he shrugged. Rubbing his hand on top of the metal body, "but trust me. If you keep it bottled up then when it does release again, it'll be far worst. I'm only offering you this to help you in the long run and if once you have it under control, you wanna leave, then so be it."
A fresh stream of tears escaped down the metal cheeks. The wild pre-evolved pseudo-Pokémon threw forward. Knocking him over as he affectionately nuzzled into him with an awkward hug. Trying to return it, he whispered some soothing comfort, "there, there boy. It's alrigh-erm, oh sorry."
"Wh-what for?" Metang sniffled.
"For saying boy, I know your species don't have gender-"
"A-actually, I do. Or well, sort of," The psychic steel type replied, letting him sit up, "I-I identify as male so-o."
"In that case I'm more than happy to refer to you what you're comfortable with," he smiled. Picking up his Pokéball, he held it out and the iron claw Pokémon reached out. Tapping it with his arm, a red light engulfed him and sucked him inside. The device instantly dinged in his hand, and he pulled out his Pokédex:
Metang, The Iron Claw Pokémon. The evolved form of Beldum. Using magnetic forces to stay aloft, this Pokémon flies at high speeds, weaving through harsh mountain terrain in pursuit of prey. It's believed the entire body is metal inside rather than hollow
Type: Steel / Psychic
Ability: Clear Body
Hidden Ability: Light Metal (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: N/A
Nature: Gentle (Note: This nature could change when this Pokémon evolves)
Move(s): Confusion, Metal Claw, Bullet Point, Tackle, Zen Headbutt, Magnet rise, Flash Canon, Take Down, Psychic, Scary Face, Thunder Punch, Bulldoze
Ash's Pokédex switched screens to a list of his current on hand team, although all the images were silhouettes except for Dragonite and Torkoal, "please select which Pokémon you wish to send back."
He sighed and scanned through his options. Looking up from the device, he stared at his fully evolved pseudo. She frowned and shook her head, "don't even think about it. I wanna stick around for a bit to check that you're not just falling for some sob story. I know how easy it is to pull on your heart strings."
"You don't trust Metang?" he asked.
"He attacked you. Call me crazy but that's not exactly trustworthy." She crossed her arms. "So sorry but one of us needs to take the needed precautions."
"What about you, Torkoal?" he asked, as the fire type walked up beside him.
"I believe the universe shows it's true face when asking for help," he replied, "and we show ours, by how we respond."
Sighing, he knew how stubborn his dragon could be... at least with her around, she might be more open to seeing the genuine feelings that he felt radiating off his newest team member. Turning back to the device, he sighed and tapped the image of his Duskull. The device teleported away off his belt.
"Alright Metang, come on out." Pressing the centre button on the device, his psychic steel type materialised. Shaking his body, he blinked and turned to stare at him expectantly, "I figured we could use the journey back to get to know one another. What'cha say?"
"I'd like that," he nodded.
Thanking and recalling his two other Pokémon, they started walking back through the path of destruction from the previous clash. Feeling the exhaustion strain on his body, the metal claw Pokémon used psychic to lift him onto his head. Floating along, the two conversed with each other.
Ash smiled as he rode on top of the psychic steel type. The two continued to converse on the ride back, with Ash mainly talking about the other members of their group. Metang seemed particularly interested in meeting the large group of Pokémon which made up not only his team but everyone's.
"-so this ranch place, where is it?" he asked.
"It's in Pallet town in Kanto, which is where I'm from. Serena lives there too but she was born in Kalos," he replied, "and since I can only have six Pokémon on me at any one time, that's where the others hang out. I bet you'll get on with a bunch of the guys there, like Venusaur, Tauros, Aero-"
He stopped in his tracks as he noticed the officers and his friends running up towards him. Jumping off the iron claw Pokémon, he wobbled slight but remained stood as they closed in. The first to arrive being the Officer Jenny from before, who stood tall with her arms crossed and a frown in her brow.
"I assume this is the Metang?" she asked.
"Y-yeah," he uttered, not liking the way she looked at his newest team member. He slowly cowered behind his back, trying to avoid her gaze.
She quickly took out an ultra-ball and tossed it onto the psychic steel type. It burst open with a red light surrounding his body. Breaking in stride, the device landed flat on the ground, sparking in the dirt. Feeling a burning anger in his veins, he stepped forward into the officer's face.
"What do you think you're doing?!"
"That Pokémon is dangerous and needs containing," she declared, "I can assume that the failure of my Ultra ball means you've already caught it?!"
"Yes, he asked me to catch him," he replied, "Metang was-"
"It was destroying the forest, putting countless wild Pokémon in danger and moving towards Fortree!" She cut him off, "had it reached the city limits then countless human lives-"
"What does it matter if human or Pokémon?" he asked, "all life is precious and Metang didn't mean to hurt anyone. He's as much a victim here-"
"Sure," she rolled her eyes, "you just want to have that power to help in the league, regardless of whose hurt as a result!"
"You don't know a thing!" he felt the anger rush through his veins, "and if it wasn't for me and Dragonite then-"
"Dragonite maybe but not you!" She cut him off, "now as an officer of the law I am ordering you to hand over Metang's Pokéball."
Taking a deep breath, he slowly reached to his belt. What was he supposed to do? He might not like it, but she is a police officer. Swallowing hard, he rolled the device in his hand, unclipping it from his belt. His eyes glanced back to the steel psychic type who stared back with wide, pale, eyes.
A shadow from the sky drew their attention. Glancing up they found someone approaching whilst stood on a Pokémon. Both were in shilluette as they came into a landing. The man was dressed in a smart black suit with silver hair. While his Pokémon planted themselves in the ground and he stepped off.
The Pokémon resembled Metang in a way, being sort of robotic with a silver, disc-shaped body but with four legs. The main part appeared to serve as both head and body. This Pokémon's overall construction gave off the appearance of a mechanized arachnid. A large golden cross spread over the centre of the face. On either side of the cross were bright red eyes which peered out from a space within the metallic armor. The four legs were joint to the main body by ball-and-socket joints. While the upper portion of the legs were relatively thin, they became considerably thicker below the knee. Each leg had three short claws on the end and a flat, blunt protrusion extending over the knee. Pulling out his Pokédex, he scanned the new Pokémon:
Metagross, The Iron Leg Pokémon. The final evolved form of Beldum. Metagross has four brains in total. Combined, the four brains can breeze through difficult calculations faster than a supercomputer. This Pokémon can float in the air by tucking in its four legs
Putting the device away, he couldn't help but noticed a weird fancy leg bracelet around one of the front legs. A shimmering gemstone, similar to the ones his Aerodactyl and Houndoom own. He couldn't help but glance up to the man in surprised, "S-Steven?"
"Nice to see you kids again... and it seems you have even more friends," he smiled, glancing around, he faced officer Jenny, "now anyone want to explain what's going on? I thought I was here to help subdue a dangerous rampaging Pokémon."
"I-I already took care of it," he opted, holding the Pokéball out, "it's fine now."
"Fine until the Metang goes off again," Officer Jenny replied, "I want to take the Pokémon into custody to prevent another outburst-"
"If it weren't for me then you would still be containing him," he raised his voice, "how could you claim Metang's safer with you then me?!"
"The kid does raise a valid point. The fact he was capable of catching Metang proves in his favour," Steven noted, "but I also see your concerns."
"Metang didn't do this through his own will!" Ash cried, "he was attacked. In pain and scared! That's why he lost control."
"A likely story-"
"Pokémon aren't mindless creatures and Metang are known to have above human level intelligence," Steven replied, "so I would expect some level of truth in the statement as I can't see one attacking a forest of wild Pokémon without a reason."
"And how would this kid know that?" Officer Jenny asked, crossing her arms, "he's just making up anything to try and get a strong Pokémon for the league."
"I would never use a Pokémon like that!" he cried out, "and I promised Metang to help him get his strength under control!"
"Alright, I've heard enough from both of you," he declared, "Ash. Pass me Metang's Pokéball... now!"
Biting his lower lip, he reluctantly placed the device into the champion's hand. He shrunk it down in his hand and glanced over to his own psychic steel type, who walked forward. Both glanced behind him where the pre-evolved form shook behind his back, occasionally peeking out. Slowly, he floated out and levitated right in front of his fully evolved form.
A psychic wave radiated out from the shiny Pokémon. The two Pokémon seemed locked in a mental conversation before the silver member of the species turned towards the champion, sending out another weak ESP pulse. The champion nodded and rubbed his chin.
"Officer," he drew the Jenny's attention, "I assume you have no complaints if I keep custody of Metang? Or will you claim I'm not suitable to manage him?"
"N-no," she stuttered, "of course not."
"Good, then your work here is done," he replied, "so might I suggest you reopen the path and prepare for the ranger's arrival so you can support in rehabilitation?"
"Yes, sir," she saluted. The champion turned and watched her walk away. Re-issuing her officers around, he couldn't help but continue to stare between his newest capture and the steel type specialist. Once they were out of sight, he couldn't help but gulp as Steven stared down at him.
"Here." He held the device out. Blinking in surprise, he quickly took the device, "I believe the fact you was able to stop the rampage by yourself is proof enough that I should give you the benefit of doubt."
"Th-thank you... it means a lot to both of us," he stuttered, reaching out to pat the psychic steel type on the head.
"Why is that?" he asked, "I'm not stupid. You seem far more defensive on this matter than you should be... had you known Metang beforehand then-"
"I-it's because... I had a Pokémon taken off me before," he sighed, glancing down to his feet which shuffled in place, "Lance of Kanto's elite four took him."
"I'm sorry."
"He got hit by some sort of device which sent him into a rampage. We tried to calm him, but Lance had to subdue him instead," he explained, "I'm sure he's treating him well but after losing one Pokémon this way... well I couldn't-"
"Thank you for your honesty," he nodded, "now I assume you're heading to Fortree?"
"Y-yeah," he replied, "how come?"
"Because I am too..." He closed his eyes and turned around, "like I said. I'm willing to give you the benefit of the doubt given Metang but that doesn't mean Jenny's concerns are unfounded. And given the fact that Lance hasn't returned your own Pokémon does leave me with concern. So, this is what I propose, we'll be at Fortree for a while, and I'll be keeping my eye on you both. I expect you to prove to me that you are the right trainer to help Metang."
"Hang on Steven, you just said-" Gary tried to argue back.
"Sorry kids but I still have a duty to everyone in Hoenn. Not just Ash," he replied, "so I'm not saying my mind is made up, far from it. You have a week to prove yourself so you can spend the time arguing about how unfair it is or you can prove yourself. Decision is yours."
Standing still, he watched the champion climb back onto his fully evolved pseudo legendary. The duo raised up into the sky and disappeared into the sky. He let out a long breath and turned towards the psychic steel type. His red eyes were wobbling with tears threatening to escape.
"Don't worry Metang," he uttered, "I don't care what Steven thinks. I won't leave you alone to deal with this. I made you a promise and I'm gonna keep it."
"Th-thank you," he muttered, throwing himself forward and nuzzling into his chest.
"There, there," he replied awkwardly, trying to return the gesture without being stabbed by the nose-spike, "why don't you rest up in your Pokéball for now."
Seeing him nod in agreement, he recalled the iron claw Pokémon. Clipping the device back to his belt, he turned towards the others. Agreeing to finish up their journey to Fortree, they set off down the now-open path. As they walked, his hand subconsciously ran over the new active device on his belt.
"Hey Ash," Max spoke up, drawing his attention, "how do you plan on proving yourself to Steven?"
"Honestly, Max..." He sighed. "I haven't the faintest idea."
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...