Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of the Fortree arc. Unfortunately, we have to say bye to Gary and Leaf for the time being but don't worry, they'll be back sooner or later. Now I wanna state that this arc is gonna last a good while, four chapters to be specific but considering some cities only got one chapter, that's a long time. Firstly, we get the reunion between the group & May, she's been busy during her stay at Fortree. Then we get more insight in Steven, as hinted last chapter, he'll be playing an important role in this short arc. Oh, and a new capture with a sort of canon Pokémon (a Rocket mon). I felt like this was the easiest to place out of all the trio's canon team, in all honest so hope you agree. With setting so much stuff up, this is one of those chapter which jumps around POV a bit. Sorry but it can't be helped. One last point, for those that missed it, Metang is my first transgender character. Despite not having a gender, as a species, this one identifies himself as male and shall be referred to as such. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Fifty-Three: Ceremony of the Sky
Ash stretched up under the cool orange evening sky. He looked around and found themselves stood at the base of a forest made up of large palm trees. The truly intriguing part was a wooden ladder dangling down. Looking up into the treeline, he felt a wide smile overtake his face. Multiple people and Pokémon could be seen moving through the upper level, placing up decorations and just going about their day to day lives.
"Well guys, it's been fun." Gary's voice caused him to turn to the spikey-haired boy, "but this is where we need to part ways."
"Already Gary?" Leaf whined.
"Fraid so." He nodded, shoving his hands into his pockets. "If we ride Arcanine and Tropius we can make it to Lilycove by nightfall and get the first flight back tomorrow morning. We already spent longer here then we ideal should've with both aqua and magma."
"It's alright, Leaf, we all knew since the weather institute that this was the case," he reassured. Offering his pseudo sister, a small smile. She returned the gesture and pulled him into a bone-breaking hug, along with Serena. "And besides, we'll be on the other end of the line whenever you wanna talk."
"I'll miss you guys," she whispered, letting them go, "and Brock, thanks for looking after 'em."
"You don't need to thank me." He smiled. "And they do just as much looking out for me too."
"Now Max, don't forget to take good care of Castform. We'll be keeping an eye on her process for research," Gary drew the young boy's attention, "and once we get back to Pallet, I'll talk to gramps about the possibility of having your team stay at the lab. You know, make researching her from time to time easier."
"Really?!" He could've sworn he saw the young boys eyes sparkle. "That'll mean I'd get to speak to Professor Oak on the regular bases?!"
"Well, I can't make any promises now, kid, so don't go getting your hopes up," he chuckled nervously.
With one last wave of goodbyes from everyone, the duo released their respective Pokémon. Leaf climbed onto the grass flying type who kicked off the ground, quickly disappearing over the skyline of the treetops. While Gary climbed onto his pure fire type, who charged off south along the side of the forest.
"I'm gonna miss 'em," Serena commented as they watched the two disappear from sight. Taking a deep breath, she replaced the frown with a smile, "but we'll see them again. So now we should find the centre."
"We're gonna need to climb this ladder to officially enter the city," Brock noted.
"Ladies first," he offered to his girlfriend.
"Hehehe, nice try mister," she giggled, moving in close to whisper the next bit, "don't think I don't know why you want me to climb first... looking up at me."
The image of her above him, climbing the rope ladder, entered his mind. While she wasn't in a skirt, he couldn't help but feel his cheeks heat up at the thought. Sinking his teeth into his lower lip, his eyes blinked to get rid of the mental image. "I-I-I ne-never mean-t-"
"Hahaha, I know Ash," she laughed, holding her stomach as she leaned over, "I'm just teasing. But even if you didn't mean it in that way, doesn't mean you wouldn't get the view if I did go first. Which is why I'm going last. Not only for that reason but to catch any of you if ya'll fall."
"R-right." He shook his head to the side, slapping his cheeks.
Swallowing hard, he moved up to the rope ladder and tentatively pulled to check it's secure. Pulling himself up, he climbed into the treeline with a steady pace. It didn't take him long to reach the top. The sight taking his breath. An orange evening background bounced off the wooden huts which were built into the tree branches as people and Pokémon manuvered around the two-story city with seeming less ease.
Turning back to the ladder, he held his hand down to grab Max's hand who climbed up below him. Pulling the young boy onto the platform, he watched as Brock made his way up next, quickly followed by Serena. Once all four were on the tree-top platforms, they set off towards the centre, with Brock leading the way. It didn't take them long to find their way to building. Unlike the other buildings, this one took up several trees and even had some parts attached to the base of the tree. While his friends went inside to book the rooms for the stay, he stayed out and took out a Pokéball. His newest team member materialised.
"Hey Metang," he smiled, "I know it's only been a few hours, but I wanted to check how you're doing."
"Good," he nodded.
"Good." He offered a small smile, "so I've been thinking about something. A way we might be able to convince Steven to let you stay."
"I-" he paused, tears escaping down his cheek, "don't want to hurt anyone. I didn't mean to-"
"I know you didn't buddy," he replied, carefully rubbing his hand down the side of the steel psychic type, "but we've got a chance to prove ourselves and I think I know how. I want to use you in the Fortree gym battle."
"Why?"
"Well... I would normally like to build up a Pokémon's strength before such a challenge, but strength isn't your issue. Winona is meant to be one of the toughest leaders in Hoenn and so I feel like we could better see where you struggle by facing her," he explained, "it's easier to witness in an official battle where the opponent can handle themselves. Then we can properly work out where we need to focus on your training."
"Right," he nodded, giving what he assumed was the equivalent of a smile, "b-but how will that convince the nicely dressed man?"
"I don't know that it will," he replied, "but it's the best we can do... so we should and... even if Steven decides otherwise, he'd at least get the same info to pass onto whoever he deems a good enough trainer for you."
"I don't like the idea of being sent off to some stranger," he muttered, turning his body to glance at the floor. Squeezing the red eyes shut.
"I know you don't and neither do I," he sighed, patting him on the head, "which is why we need to do everything we can to prove to Steven. Which is why we can start training now. And I've got just the training partner."
"I-it's not the dragon... is it?" he stuttered, "s-she's scary."
"No, it's not Dragonite," he replied, "while she certainly would be a strong opponent for you to face. I don't think she has the right mentality to help you right now. Which is why your partner is going to be... Torkoal."
A red light flashed down from his hand and the pure fire type materialised. He glanced between the two of them before settling his calm expression on Ash.
"Greetings."
"Okay Torkoal, you remember Metang?" he asked.
"Hello." The steel psychic gave a small, childish wave with his large metal arm.
"I do," he nodded, turning to the emotional robot, "you make quite the first impression son."
"Sorry," his voice was high-pitched, almost a squeak.
"I see harm reduction as the start of the path to recovery," he nodded, "no need to apologise to me. For you can only truly harm yourself."
"Right, well Torkoal, you have experience with helping steel types, right?"
"Steel, water, grass, fire, fighting, ghost, rock, ground... my student list expands for more than the valley at which we met," he nodded.
"So, you think you could help with Metang's training while we wait for the gym battle?" he asked.
"Certainly."
Smiling as the two Pokémon started conversing. He lead the way into the centre, with them following behind. While the true training would start tomorrow, it was important everyone was on the same page. Meeting back up with Serena, Brock, and Max, they made their way to the cafeteria in the centre-complex for the dinner. He couldn't help but wonder just where Steven was but part of him also didn't want to know... it was a tough situation he's been put in.
May smiled widely as she watched her dragon flying type land on the battlefield. Behind her landed the much larger version of the same species. Walking forward, she rubbed her on the head, glancing behind as a women approached.
She wore a sky-blue-pilot-fighter helmet which had a feather modelled into the two sides. Her long, lavender hair poked out the sides in the shape of feathers while a third ponyta-tail strand dangled behind, almost reaching her chins. Green goggles rested on the top of her helmet. While her outfit resembled a sky-diver, with a darker-shade of blue used for the outer suit and a cloud-white inner suit which was skin type. The outer suit stopped just after her shoulders, which had pads pointed like feathers, and about midway down her upper thigh. She also had on gloves and trainers, the same darker shade of blue.
"Well done, May, your Altaria is a quick study," she smiled, "I'm sure my partner would agree, you'll do great in your next contest."
"Thanks Winona," the brunette smiled, stepping to the side of her humming Pokémon, "we're gonna get ribbon number four, for sure!"
"I must apologise but I won't be able to offer my assistance for the next week and my gym shall be closed for the same period," she bowed, "so I can't allow you or your partner to use the facility to continue with your training."
"That's alright," she shrugged, "it's that feather festival thingy, right?"
"Ceremony of the Sky," she corrected, "it's an ancient festival held here in Fortree and lasts all week. As the gym leader and current resident of the temple, I am duty bound to monitor and partake in the festivities and out of respect, that is why I close my gym during the time."
"Of course," she nodded, "you've already done so much to help myself and Altaria. We couldn't possibly ask more of you."
"So where is that boy you've been showing up with?" she asked.
"He's been looking for a new team member so for the last few days, he's been going west to explore," she shrugged, "but I'll meet him back up later. We're actually planning on checking out this ceremony tomorrow."
"Well, we encourage you to bring out any flying type Pokémon you can," she replied, "the whole point is to show our appreciation to the ancient dragon who protects us from the sky... Rayquaza. I'll actually be giving off rides with my team during the days. It is a lot of fun for all involved."
"I look forward to it," she smiled. Holding her device out, she recalled the humming Pokémon and clipped the device back onto his belt.
Bidding the gym leader goodbye once more, she set off down the outer-staircase of the temple. Almost jumping down towards the tree-based city. While the first time she climbed this building was tiring, she quickly got used to it. After all, from the highest point, you could easily see the furthest points of Hoenn, like the isolated of Dewford off to the distance, or the white-mountain casing of Sootopolis or even the tall standing Mount Chimney. Finding views like this is why she loves travelling.
Passing through the city, she couldn't help but appreciate all the different banners and decorations placed up by the residences. With everything seeming to have a feather theme to the design. With every step through this other-worldly city, she felt the joyous seasonal spirit fill every cell in her body. Making it too the centre, she gave a quick hello to the local Nurse Joy and handed over Altaria's Pokéball.
Feeling her stomach growl for food, she glanced around. Since she couldn't see Drew waiting for her, she shrugged, guessing he got really into his hunting for a new team member and lost track of time. Holding her impatient stomach, she made her way to the centre-cafe. Upon entering, though, she couldn't help but have her attention drawn over to the corner where a rather large group of Pokémon surrounded a table... recognising the occupants.
Smiling as she grabbed her plate and moved through the buffet, she quickly made her way over. As she got closer, she couldn't help but notice some differences within the group. Such as the Crawdaunt, who she assumed was once Ash's Corphish... along with some new additions like the white floating Pokémon who sat next to her brother's Treecko to eat... or the large orange dragon who sat at the table next to Ash. What has she missed?
"Hey guys!"
Everyone turned towards her for a moment. Most of the Pokémon seemed to quickly return to their meal as she took the open seat next to the honey-blonde girl. While she kept a smile on her face, she couldn't help but slouch slightly as she felt a thick tension swarm around them.
"When did you guys get here?" She tried to keep the same enthusiasm in her tone.
"Earlier today," Brock answered, with a soft smile on his lips, "how have you been, May?"
"Good, really good actually," she replied, "I met the gym leader and she really helped Altaria since her evolution. We're more ready for the contest than ever."
"That's good," Serena commented, "I'm happy you was able to find what you was looking for."
"Yeah, well, what about you guys?" she asked, slightly taken back by the honey-blonde girls tone, "it seems like I missed quite a bit."
"That's what happens when you skip out on your friends," Max sneered.
She couldn't help but frown and leer down at her little brother across the table. Her brows twitched as they lowered over her eyes. Just what's his problem, he never cared about her before, always pointing out her mistakes and just what he would've done better... she slowly bite harder on her inner cheek.
"Let's see, Corphish evolved into Crawdaunt," Ash spoke up, seeming to try and keep the tension down. He gestured over to the large red Pokémon she noticed on her way over, who gave a cheesy grin and wave of his large claw, "I also caught Metang... and Max got Castform."
"Castform?" she blinked, not recognising the name. Pulling out her Pokédex, she tried to scan her brother's second Pokémon:
No data.
"Weird," she muttered, putting the device away. Returning to her own meal.
"You'd only really know about her if you visited the weather institute with us. That's where we got our dex's updated with info for her," he commented, taking a vicious bite of his meal whilst staring daggers straight at her. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath. Calming every cell in her body, she took a calmer fork full of food. "-all the things that you missed out on by skipping over our travels."
"I'll have you know that I got so much training in thanks to flying straight here," she declared, "with it, that forth ribbon is as good as mine. You should check out Altaria and the others. They're in the best shape they've ever been in."
"That's great May," Serena's voice came, in almost a quiet whisper, "we'll wish you the best of luck for the contest."
"It's still over a week away thanks to this festival," Max commented.
"What is your problem, Max!" She slammed her hands down on the table, pushing herself up so her shadow completely covered her little brother.
"You missed my first capture! My first real step as a trainer!" he cried, jumping up out of his seat, "ever since I joined, I've seen everything you've done. I was there for every contest. Every Pokémon you caught but you just decided to leave! Leave all of us!"
He took off away from the table, tears escaping down his cheeks. She glanced to the side as both his Pokémon took off after him, with Brock following shortly behind, carefully moving across the table without trying to cause to much of a scene. Seeing the breeder disappear across the room, she let out a low sigh and sat back down. Closing her eyes, she relaxed into the seat. Peaking open, she realised most of the Pokémon were now looking at her.
Chancing a glance to the side, she saw the remaining two members of the group looking at her. She could see a thousand questions within their stares but couldn't bring herself to answer a single one. Sinking her teeth into her lower lip, she picked up her plate and made her way outside. Leaning against the wooden railing for the outside balcony, she closed her eyes and relaxed her posture. Reaching to her belt, she took off a Pokéball.
Minun materialised right in front of her and stared up with an expectanting look. She quickly hopped up her body, landing on her shoulder. Nuzzling her cheek against her own, sending a warm tingle down her spine. Glancing over to the pure electric type, she let out a small smile.
"Thanks for trying to make me feel better," she muttered, scratching the cheering Pokémon on the head.
"Min-nun," she nodded with wide eyes. She glanced side to side before hopping onto the rail-bar, standing so they could talk face to face, "nun, Minun."
"Nah, Drew and Plusle aren't here," she sighed, kneeling down so they were eye level. Quirking an eyebrow up, she saw the small cream-coloured Pokémon sighed and seemingly relax, "what's gotten into you?"
"Minun nun. Mi Minun."
"What?" she blinked, not getting a clue at what her electric type was saying. Although her frantic arm movements didn't help. Shaking her head, she frowned as the cheering Pokémon stared back, "the reason I'm upset is I just ran into the others. And-"
"Mi Minun Nun!" She shouted.
"What's gotten into you?" she asked.
"She's trying to warn you that I'm coming up behind you." She froze at the sound of the voice. Turning around she found Ash stood behind her with a frown and crossed arms. Taking a deep breath, she stood up to meet his eyeline.
"You come to chew me out too?" she asked.
"No," he replied, "it's your journey and if you think your best chance to achieve your dream is to fly from one place to another, focusing more on training than anything else then that's your choice."
"So why did you come here?" she asked.
"I figured you could use someone to talk too," he replied, "and I think Minun would appreciate getting her thoughts across."
"Minun!" She nodded with a wide smile
"Alright then," she shrugged.
"Minun nun. Mi Minun."
"Minun said, before anything else, she wants to make it clear she isn't interested in Drew's Plusle," he replied, "at least romantically. And she isn't swoon off her feet just because he gave a rose... and she doesn't think you should be either... wait, does that mean Drew's here?"
"Duh," she rolled her eyes, kneeling down to her electric types level, "but what's brought this on, Minun? What changed in the last few days?"
"Nun, Minun!"
"She said nothing's changed, and she didn't have interest in him from the start," Ash translated, "but you was so head over heels, you didn't notice."
"I was not!" She yelled, feeling her cheeks burn bright red.
"Nun." She uttered, crossing her arms, and turning to the side, "Mi Minun."
"Don't turn your back on me!" she cried, "and what about the old saying about Pokémon taking after their trainer? What was I meant to think?"
"May," Ash sighed, "you know the Pokémon taking after their trainer doesn't mean that if two humans date then their Pokémon must be romantic too."
"But what about Pikachu and Sylveon then?" she asked.
"Corelation is not causation. I mean Serena & myself have a tone of Pokémon who aren't romantically involved," he shrugged, "we even have Charizard and Delphox, who ended up breaking up."
"But-"
"That saying is more to mean that Pokémon and trainer complement each other," he continued, "they learn to work together and build a strong partnership."
"Minun," her electric type nodded.
"Alright," she sighed, "I'm sorry Minun. I won't make you hang out with Plusle during the date tomorrow if you really don't want too."
"Mi-Nun," she nodded, leaping up onto her shoulder, "Minun. Mi Minun."
"And she also said that if Drew tries anything to hurt you, she'll shock him into next week," he added, "something about not trusting the Casanova types."
"Drew isn't anything like that," she sighed, scratching the cheering Pokémon behind the ear. She relaxed and turned to face the raven-haired boy, "thank you, Ash. This was a big help. And... I do want to ask you something."
"What?" he asked.
"You mentioned flying from one contest to another to max out training time," she replied, "but why don't you do that? Why deliberately travel every route?"
"Because if I didn't, I wouldn't have met most of my Pokémon," he smiled turning to the sky, "and while training is great, another important aspect is learning from the experiences on the road. Nothing I've done on my journey has been a waste of time and I could only think of all the friends and adventures I'm missing out on by flying from place to place. Of course, sometimes time crunches force the hand but-
She frowned and glanced down to the floor at the explanation. If she were being honest, she felt like she wouldn't have most of her team if not for the adventure. Maybe she would've still seeked out a Beautifly, but she would've flew straight over Poochyena... Not even bothered with Dewford missing both Mawile and Clamperl. Maybe she would've took part in the trick-house but without the previous experience, maybe she wouldn't have won Minun either.
"-that is why I feel like taking our time travelling from place to place is important. And I always will think that."
Ash sighed happily as she relaxed on the bench. The day after arriving in the tree-top city. His girlfriend taking the seat next to him, resting her head on his shoulder as she wrapped around his arm, intertwining their hands togethers. The slight chatter of passer-by and vendors filling in the warm sunny day atop of the trees. Glancing around, he couldn't help but notice the large variety of flying types filling the sky... including what looked like a large Skarmory which had children riding on the back.
"I think the ride Pokémon belong to the gym leader, Winona," Serena's voice whispered in his ear, "Brock mentioned it at breakfast. Max really seemed excited about the prospect of flying."
"I'm not surprised, he loved flying on Charizard from Petalburg to west of Mauville, didn't he," he sighed, "why? Did you want to go flying?"
"After the... incident, in Johto. I think I'll save flying unless we need to," she mumbled, "besides. With Pidgeot & the others, I think we can do it whenever we want so no point in taking up the spot for someone else. Unless you want too, birthday boy."
"I told you before, I'm not much into celebrating my birthday," he sighed, "after last year at the lake-"
His words died as he felt a familiar sensation on his lips. Glancing down, he saw his honey-blonde girl gently pressing her lips to the corner of his mouth. He couldn't help but smile as he closed his eyes, pushing back to deepen the show off affection. She slowly pulled back, a coy smile on her lips.
"Now I have your full attention," she giggled, causing a slight tingle in his cheeks, "life only has meaning in struggles. Triumph or defeat is in the hands of legends. So let us celebrate the struggle."
"Okay Torkoal, when did you-"
"I asked him for something inspiring which might convince you to get out of your brooding," she replied, "but he also asked something. Do you regret meeting everyone you met since the lake? Duskull, Grovyle, Swellow ext."
"No, of course not," he replied.
"Then why prevent letting them celebrate your day with you?" she asked, "I get you miss him. I still miss Furret and always will but if we don't move on from those days then more will be lost from events since passed."
"Alright then." His lips burst into a wide smile, jumping to his feet, he pulled her along with their intertwined hands. Running a little bit away from the bench, he made it a few feet before feeling some sort of weight on his legs causing him to stop. Glancing down, he noticed a psychic hold, keeping them in place.
"Slow down, mister," she instructed, "where are you going?"
"To explore the festival and enjoy the day," he smiled, "our Pokémon are already off doing their own stuff so why are we wasting day light?"
Hearing her giggle at his antics, he felt the weight on his legs disappear. Taking off across the fair-grounds, he couldn't help but smell the dozen or so different food vendors of all different types. Seeing Serena able to keep up with him, he quickly made a detour. Picking up a bag of 'Swablu Cotton Candy' to share. He entered a lower trout around, laughing with his honey-blonde girlfriend as they fed each other the sweet treat.
Walking along, they came to a stand
"So here you are," a voice drew his attention. Blinking in surprise, he turned to find a women in her late teens with large alice blue hair, with a small sun cap sticking out to the front. She leaned on a golf stick as he noticed the short-sleeved blue and shirt with an orange feather pinned over her heart. The top poked out over her waist like a plume of feathers, while she had a blue skirt down to her upper thigh. Bright orange socks stuck up out of her white shoes, nearly hitting her knees, "Why don't we see who the winds favour today, you...or me?"
"Sorry?" he gulped.
"Who are you?" Serena asked.
"Alola. My name is Kahili and I'm from the Alola region," she replied, "but I currently apprentice under the Fortree gym leader. And I'm running this venue for the ceremony of the sky. So why not give it a try."
"What do we have to do?" he asked.
"Simple," she smiled, "we have nine golf holes set up. You have to play the course and we keep track of the number of hits it takes you to put your ball. The number you score relates to the prizes you could win."
"I say we give it a try, what about you Serena?" he asked.
"Sounds like fun," she smiled. A loud buzzer went off and balls of confetti burst open, raining down over them. They both looked at each other before turning back to the gym assistant, "what was that Kahili?"
"We have a winner, someone who did a perfect run," she smiled, as the gate to her course opened. They stared in surprise as both Drew and May walked out of the wooden door, both sticking their golf clubs onto the vendor stand behind Kahili, "congratulates love birds. May I take your result cards?"
They watched as the gym apprentice went behind the vendor. She brought out two items, the first he noticed was a Pokémon but not one he's ever seen before. It almost looked like a ball of water with the shade of blue making up the majority of shell. A red centre sat at the middle with a halo of small golden balls floating around the top. While the other seemed to be a necklace case. May picked up the egg and Drew the case.
"Congratulations May," he smiled towards his friend, "I'm sure you'll take great care of the egg. It's really rewarding raising a Pokémon from one."
"Thanks guys," she smiled, "it was super fun getting to play golf again. Dad use to take us all the time when we lived in Unova."
"Well, we should get going, if you still want to check out those performing stages," Drew interjected, "you did say they could give you some contest ideas."
"Right," she smiled widely, slipping her hand into his, "see you later guys."
Seeing them walk off, Ash couldn't help but frown at the feelings he felt radiating off his girlfriend. Refocusing on Kahili, he grabbed the two golf sticks and blank result cards, heading into the golf course. The first hold seemed like a simple straight shot, with a windmill halfway over the course, which had feathers making up the propellers as it lightly spun around in the gentle breeze. He set up his ball and moved into position for his put.
"So, Serena," he spoke up, drawing her attention, "you still planning on competing in the contest?"
"Of course." She crossed her arms, "why? Don't you think I should?"
"N-no it's just." He took the shot and watched the ball roll across the ground. It went inside the windmill. Moving back, he noticed the ball come out of the other side and bounce off the back wall. Stopping right next to the hole. "I don't want you to create more issues between May and-"
"She insulted Milotic before she evolved Ash." Taking up her own stance. "I'm doing it for her, Ash. You should understand it-"
"I do, I do," he nodded, waving his hands in front of him. She took the shot, and he watched her ball travel across the course. Again, passing through the windmill without issue. Slowly rolling past his own ball, it landed squarely in the hole. She put her card in the machine to enter her score as he went to finish up his own round with a second shot, "I just don't want to ruin our friendship with May, either."
"Well, I already went on and registrared yesterday," she replied, "so it's too late to back out now. May was so sure she would win so we'll just need to see."
The couple continued through the course, while neither received any more holes in one, they completed the course with Serena only slightly ahead in points due to getting in less shots. Each hole got even crazier than before. The last one being a sort of ramp to roll the ball off, onto a giant balloon Wailord with the blow-hole on the top of the large blue body being the winning put... that one took multiple tries for both of them since the curved top caused eached failed ball to roll off to the side and back to the start. Soon they both left through the large gate which they originally entered through.
Walking up to the desk-vendor, they handed Kahili back the golf clubs and the result cards. A comfortable silence filling the atmosphere between them as they waited for the gym assistant to return. While they weren't on the same page about what to do with May or the contest, neither were up for fighting about it.
"I think it's important to keep training every day, even if it's for just a bit," Kahili smiled, as she walked over with two items. One being a necklace case like the one Drew got and one being a book. She handed Ash the book while Serena got the box, "I'll give you this. It should help you aim for even loftier goals!"
Staring at his prize, he couldn't help but smile seeing the cover. A women dressed in a light purple, old-fashioned dress with long, icy-blonde hair stood on the cover with her chin resting on her hand. A few Pokémon surrounded her, some he didn't reconsign but others he did, like Jynx, Weavile and Mamoswine. With the title being: Glacia, The Ice Queen, Battle Strategy and Frozen tactics Volume III
"I bet that'll really help you," Serena commented, slipping her own prize into her backpack.
"So, what did you get?" he asked, giving a toothy grin as he put the book into his bag.
"That's a secret." She winked, wrapping herself around his arm once more. "I might use it in my next travelling outfit or something for a showcase so I wanna keep it a surprise. Get to check out your reaction all in one go."
"Alright, I get it." He smiled, cupping her cheek with his hand. He pulled her closer in and connected their lips once more. They stood in a world of their own for an unknown amount of time, just savouring the small shows off affection.
While he doesn't agree with her decision concerning the Fortree contest, he completely gets why. Had someone insulted one of his Pokémon, especially about a sour subject, he would be just as angry. He also isn't about to forgive and forget with May, but she is there friend. Maybe it's just him but she seems to be acting unlike herself right now. He could be wrong but someone or thing seems to be influencing her.
The need for air built up and the two reluctantly pulled back. She rested one hand on his chest, clutching his top as she rested her head just below his chin, with his arm wrapped around her back, holding her close. Her voice was a whisper, "so... what'cha wanna do now, birthday boy?"
"Explore," he whispered back. Leaning his own forehead against her's, their eyes locked in constant contact.
She pushed her head up. Quickly licking his lips as she moved her head next to his ear, "explore what exactly?
"T-th-the festival," he stuttered.
"Awe... you got me all excited for a moment," she whined into his ear. He could tell by her tone that she was teasing but it was working. His heart turned it up a notch and he was helpless as she started pulling him along through the festival grounds.
A few hours passed and they soon came up to most of their Pokémon. Crawdaunt wasn't with them, but they saw him earlier hanging around a bunch of female flying types... without much luck on his end. Torkoal and Metang were off to the side, speaking, while Grovyle and Seviper sparred together. He glanced up to the sky, seeing Dragonite flying around but he didn't question it... all day he hear different people mention trying to get the Dragonite to ride, much to his own amusement, knowing how picky she can be. Beside her flew Dustox, with Bagon on her back. Kirlia was practising his performance with Meditite sat next to Zangoose, Cacnea and Milotic, who were all watching. Seeing his girlfriend head over to her own group, he made his way over too.
"So how are you guys getting on?" he asked, standing in front of his two newest team members.
"Slowly," Metang muttered.
"A journey of a thousand miles starts with but a single step. Do not fear moving slowly, only fear standing still," Torkoal replied, "I did attempt to test his ability against some of the members here, but none could get him up to the point of losing control. While he isn't pushed, there's no danger of losing control."
"So, you've not made much progress in helping him get his power under control?" he asked.
"It'll take a while and I suggest exposure being his best cure," he replied, "I reframed from battling him myself due to fear of it spreading through the festival. I would rather partake in such an event where we have more control."
"I get it," he nodded, "Thanks anyway, Torkoal."
"You do not need to thank me," he smiled.
Brock sighed as he walked along side Max through the festival grounds. His Castform rest on his shoulder, while his Treecko ran ahead, jumping through the trees and between the people and Pokémon surrounding them. Taking a deep breath, he moved up to the side of the young trainer.
"So Max," he greeted, drawing the young boys attention, "wanna talk about dinner last night?"
"No really," he muttered, turning his head downward.
"Come on." He placed a hand on the boys shoulder, causing him to stop in place. Kneeling down so they were at a similar eye level. He noticed the boys eye quickly dart up before looking back down. "I know you don't need support for everything little thing so wanna tell me what that outburst was really about?"
"I was scared..." he uttered, in a hushed voice.
"Scared?" he quirked an eyebrow up.
"Yes! Scared alright?!"
"May is a big girl and-"
"Not scared for May," he replied, taking a deep breath, "I was scared... at the weather institute. When facing Misty, I didn't know if I'd be able to keep Castform safe. Luckily, she wasn't trying to take her, but she still got away."
"I can understand why that must've been scary for you, Max." He sighed, feeling the boy run forward and engulf him in a hug. Tentatively returning the gesture, he took a deep breath. "But why take it out on your sister?"
"B-because if she had been t-there then-"
"You think she could've stopped Misty?" he finished the sentence.
"Y-yeah."
"Look Max, I get feeling angry and powerless. I do," he nodded, forcing the kid out of the embrace so they look each other in the eyes. His glasses were becoming steamed up by his tears, so he offered a handkerchief to clean them, "but you can't put that kind of blame on your sister."
"B-but-"
"We don't know how things would've turned out if she was there," he continued, "and given Misty's own experience, I'm afraid in straight fight, I don't see your sister standing much more of a chance than you did. Especially if she had Tentacruel."
"She still could've tried!" He yelled.
"With the benefit of hindsight, it's easy to think that" he sighed, "but she had no clue that was going to happen. If we could get blamed for making poor decisions without all the facts, then I'm sure everyone would be guilty. It's not fair to focus on the past like that."
"Wh-what do I do then?" he asked, panting to catch his breath.
"You spend time with Castform and Treecko and you look forward to future," he replied, offering a small smile, "sure things might've been different if May stayed. They might've also been different if the grunt you faced wasn't Misty. Or if the G-Men didn't turn up when they did."
"What're you saying?" he asked.
"That things did turn out for the best and yourself, Treecko and Castform are safe," he replied, "so enjoy it. And look forward to the future because if you stay hung up on the past then whatever comes next will catch you off guard and you might not be so lucky."
"Thanks Brock," he muttered.
"Any time," he smiled, standing up.
The duo set off once more around the festival. Brock glanced from side to side, wondering if he should pick up some souvenirs for his siblings and Lola. While flying types or feather ornaments weren't exactly his families go to, it would be nice to get them all a keep sake.
"Hey Brock," Max drew his attention once more, "why didn't Ash seemed bothered by his birthday or why did he not want to spend it with us?"
"Heh, that's easy Max. Firstly, something bad happened at his last birthday so it's not the normal happy time for him," he replied.
"And the other thing?" he asked.
"You'll understand when you get a girlfriend yourself but sometimes, regardless of what's going on," he smirked, "you just wanna spend time with her and no one else... not even your Pokémon."
Inwardly smirked at the reddening cheeks of the young boy, he figured he got the message. Glancing over the top of him, he noticed something off. A vendor stand caught his attention, causing him to frown. It had a strangely familiar looking man stood behind it, with some sort of Pokémon dangling from the ceiling with the sounds of chimes blowing in the wind. Walking up to the stand, he leaned in close to examine the wild chime Pokémon.
"Come right up! Get your own genuine Chimecho only here!" the man slammed his fan down on the desk, "you there sunny look like you could use a Chimecho. Am I right? You won't find another deal like this anywhere else so why not pick up your own today?!"
While he hated to idea of Pokémon being sold like this, if he has the correct liscen then it's completely legal. A side effect of the olden days when less was known about the creatures, they share the world with. Main of the countries not aligned with the PLA still don't give Pokémon any rights. Leaning forward, he examined the supposed psychic types but frowned. The heads look far too big for Chimecho... or at least in proportion to the rest of their bodies.
"Hey Max, can I borrow your Pokédex for a sec?" he asked.
"Sure," his little brother figure smiled, handing him the device. Taking it in hand, he flipped it open and pointed it at the Pokémon on sale:
Hoppip, The Cottonweed Pokémon. This Pokémon drifts and floats with the wind. If it senses the approach of strong winds, Hoppip links its leaves with other Hoppip to prepare against being blown away. In the past, they were used to test for oncoming storms and still assist in the research field today
"Oooh, sorry son but it looks like your device is broken," the man interjected.
"I don't think so." He handed the device back to Max, standing back up. "You see, it works by scanning the Pokémon and identifying living organic tissue. So, it's next to impossible for it to misidentify a Pokémon and even if it did, it would likely be for species closely related."
"Well would you look at the time!" The man quickly took off, leaving the stand and 'Chimecho' in place. Sighing, he guessed this was due to him not having the correct permits either. Before any decision could be made about what to do, he saw the young boy chasing after the man.
Taking off after Max, he watched his two Pokémon running ahead of him. Falling slightly behind due to the crowd getting in his way, he could only watch as a large Gyarados materialised in front of the long boy. Grabbing a device off his belt, he tossed it forward.
The sea-serpents tail swung around, knocking both of Max's Pokémon to the side. Water spewing everywhere as the boy ran to his two Pokémon.
His Vigoroth materialised and charged forward. Running in front of the trio, he slashed his claws into the oncoming hydro pump, blocking it.
Leaping through the air, he smashed into the face, knocking the atrocious Pokémon back. Grabbing the whiskers, he went over the back.
Pulling their opponent with him, Vigoroth slammed him into the ground. Turning around, he used the opening to furiously swipe his claws, one after another.
A red light withdrew the water flying type and Vigoroth quickly prevented the man from escaping further. Moving closer to his little brother figure, he kneeled to see the two downed Pokémon. As he got to tending the two Pokémon, an officer came running and they gave a brief explanation, with the officer taking the salesman away. He set out his medical supplies and got to work healing both Treecko and Castform.
"Are they gonna be okay, Brock?" Max asked.
"Of course." He smiled, placing a reassuring hand on the boys shoulder. "They took a nasty blow, but it was just one. So, nothing serious was done."
"I can't believe someone would dress up Hoppip as a Chimecho to try and sell them." He frowned and crossed his arms. Kicking his foot across the ground.
"Chiiime."
Turning to the source, he blinked in surprise. Floating next to them was a small, round Pokémon with a mainly bluish-white body, shaped like an old-fashioned wind chime. With beady yellow eyes and three stubby limbs. The body had a horizontal amaranth-coloured pattern. Underneath the body extended a long, tag-like tail with the same pattern at the bottom. A yellow, globular growth stuck up out of the top of the body.
"A real Chimecho?!" Max gasped.
"Chime-Chime."
Vibrating with a bright blue glow of psychic type energy, waves radiated off. Hitting both Treecko and Castform, the two started to slowly move. Quickly recovering from their injuries, they stood and turned to Max. Tackling him in a show off affection as he let out a joyous giggle.
"That was heal pulse." The psychic type looked at him and gave a simple nod. "Thanks, Chimecho. You really saved us some waiting time."
"Chime!"
"I guess you really like helping Pokémon who are injured?" he asked, to which the Pokémon nodded. The wide smile never leaving their face.
"Well, my name is Brock and I'm currently in training to become a Pokémon doctor," he replied, "I don't have the money for medical school yet, so I'm self-studying and travelling with friends to get all the experience I can. How would you like to join me?"
"Chime-Chime!" She gave a wide smile. Throwing her body forward, her flappy tail wrapped around her eyes.
Keeping his cool despite the playful nature, he figured her answer was yes. Reaching into his bag without the use of his eyes, he pulled out one of his spare Pokéballs and tapped it against the pure psychic type. The red light engulfed her body and sucked her straight inside. Sighing in relief, he felt it ding in hand.
"Hey Brock, what sort of Pokéball is that?" Max asked. Glancing down to his hand, he saw his heavy ball. A grey top with pale-blue bubbles decorated the device which now contained his newest team member. Reaching to his belt, he felt Trapinch's device teleport off his belt.
"It's my heavy ball, Max," he explained, "in Johto there's a Pokéball master named Kurt that we visited. He created a special kind of Pokéball for each of us and each one has a unique ability. This one was designed to work on heavier Pokémon but none of the Pokémon I met since were particularly heavy."
"Hehehe, that's kinda funny actually," Max giggled, "it's a little ironic that is speciality is heavy Pokémon and now houses one of the lightest species."
"Heh, I guess that is pretty funny." He smiled pressing the button to release his new team member. He glanced to the side, to see Max already using his Pokédex on the pure psychic type. Reading over the boys shoulder, he noticed the screen as the voice echoed:
Chimecho, The Wild Chime Pokémon. In high winds, Chimecho cries as it hangs from a tree branch or the eaves of a building using a suction cup on its head. Medical practicians once partnered with Chimecho instead of Chansey in Hoenn but changed dued to the species growing rarity
"Welcome to the team, Chimecho," he smiled.
"Vigoroth." His normal type walked up. A large smile overtook his face as he held his claw out. The psychic type blinked, staring at the sharp claws before wrapping her tail around his face. While the wild monkey Pokémon panicked in surprise, he glanced back to the young boy with his two Pokémon.
"That was a pretty easy capture, Brock," he noted.
"Sometime all you need to do is ask," he winked.
"Chiiiime!"
Packing up their stuff, the two humans and three Pokémon made their way off once more. Brock couldn't help but smile at the sight of Max's excitement as he joined the cue for flying on some Pokémon. He noticed not only a women, who he presumed was the Fortree gym leader but also Steven and his Skarmory.
Waiting whilst his little brother figure, he conversed with his newest team member. Setting up a mental connection through her psychic power, the duo really seemed to hit it off. Chimecho being trained as a medical Pokémon but before she could put her training into practise, she was taken to a ranger reserve to help with repopulating her species... she never was interested in such things and just wondered off, helping out wild Pokémon as she explored.
"Hey Brock." He turned to see May and Drew walking towards him. He couldn't help but tilt his head to the side as he noticed what was in her arms. "Hey, a new Pokémon?"
"That's a Chimecho," Drew interjected, "they're meant to be pretty rare. I bet it would make a good appearance in a contest if just for the novelty."
"Sorry to disappoint you but Chimecho is already on my team," he noted, "she help out with a little medical thing, and we got talking. So, what's up with that egg you've got, May?"
"Won it on the golf course mini-game," she smiled, "I can't wait to see what it'll hatch into."
"Chime-Chime!" His new psychic type added.
"Well, if you need any help looking after it, let me know," he smiled, "I helped Ash with both Togepi's egg and Phanpy's after all."
The couple set off once more and he returned to talking with his pure psychic type. While he wasn't happy with how May has treated their group recently, he knows better than to cause a scene in public. The best way to sort it out and get to the bottom of it is too sit down and have a serious conversation with her when not surrounded by strangers... and preferably when she doesn't have any distractions around.
Ash smiled as he glanced around. All of his, Serena's, Brock's and Max's Pokémon were out, taking up a large portion of the field which stood below the entrance to the gym. It seemed to be shaped like a pyramid to the north of Fortree with a large staircase heading up the side of the building. He noticed two figures stood above them, each with a Pokémon accompanying them. The first he reconsigned as Steven and his Metagross, while he assumed the other one was the Fortree gym leader, who had a large Altaria stood beside her.
"We humans can never escape gravity's pull on the ground, at least not without assistance! But by striving for excellence, we have the power to soar! I wish to thank our special guest, Steven Stone, the reigning Hoenn champion for joining our festivities today!"
"It's been a pleasure, Winona!" He bowed from the side, confirming his suspicions "and I look forward to see what the rest of this week of ceremony holds."
"For those who don't know, the Fortree gym was once the meeting place of mortals and legends! Long before the sky pillar's expedition, it was the closest we could get to Hoenn's spiritual guardian... Rayquaza! And now it acts as a passing gate for the trainer's who wish to take on the Pokémon league! We hold this festival to remind us of our roots and remind all who visit that if they reach for the sky, then they'll certainly achieve new heights!"
Smiling at her speech, he couldn't help but feel his heart increase. His eyes locked onto the large dragon beside her. Despite the crowd cheering towards the two powerful trainer's, it seemed like the rest of the world disappeared. Narrowing his eyes, he could already see their impending battle upon the horizon.
A loud bang drew his attention. High in the sky, he saw different fireworks colour the sky. His hand was engulfed by Serena's, as she rested her head on his shoulder. Placing a small kiss on her forehead, they stood swaying in the evening breezing, watching the display in the sky.
"Ash."
He turned to see the champion stood at the edge of the groups Pokémon. Casting a glance towards his girlfriend, she quickly released her grip on his arm, and he made his way over. Noticing the female trainer who just gave stood by his side.
"I want to introduce you to the Fortree gym leader, Winona Nagi, an expert with the flying type," he introduced as she stepped forward. Seeing her hand out, he took the hint and greeted her with a strong handshake.
"Steven told me about what was happening, and I want to thank you for keeping Fortree safe from the destruction." She ended the gesture. "I would've intervened myself but was away collecting the fireworks for tonight's display so I couldn't make it on time."
"I just did what anyone would've-"
"Humble as well as brave, I like it," she smirked, "Steven also informed me of what's going on with Metang."
"I plan on observing your battle with her," he interjected, "I like you, Ash. I knew your father back in the day and in a lot of ways your just like him."
"So why are you testing me?" he asked, "I just want to help Metang."
"I believe you, Ash," he closed his eyes, staring up to the sky, "and while your father is powerful now, he wasn't always like this. He once was a wide-eyed kid, with dreams of making it big. And with a heart so big, he'd try to move heaven and earth for the smallest of creatures."
"So, what does that have to do with us now?"
"Because whilst I have no-doubt you'll try to help Metang like he needs... I need to consider everyone else in Hoenn," he continued, "regardless of intentions, if your unable to control his untapped power then whenever you try to help with harnessing it, everyone nearby will be at risk."
"Which is where I come in," Winona interjected, "after speaking with Steven, I've decided your gym challenge will consist of a four on four. With my own team being comprised of my eight-badge team. We want to experience a wide variety of your skills, hence the large number."
"I look forward to it." He smirked, giving a small nod to her direction.
"Obviously, we have a wait before the challenge given our week of celebrations here." She gestured towards the ongoing activities for the sky ceremony.
"And I've got some friends competing in the Fortree contest so-"
"We'll schedule it for the day after the contest then," she nodded, "is that alright with you Steven?"
"I have no objections," he nodded, "I just suggest you use this time wisely, Ash. The last thing I want is too take away a Pokémon whose starting to make friends but if needed, I won't hesitate to do what's needed to protect the people and Pokémon of my region."
His mouth went dry as both the adults and their respective Pokémon walked away. Attempting to swallow, he felt a lump form in his throat. Turning, he glanced over his friends and the Pokémon, feeling tears well up in his eyes. The aching in his heart from Gyarados returning with a vengeance. Shaking his head, he wiped the tears away on his sleeve. Narrowing his brow as he looked across his team once more.
He already knew he'd use Metang so which Pokémon would complement him best? Well, Kirlia wouldn't work as well, being another psychic type and given his ability to fight in the air, Duskull would hardly be a help... his mind began racing with the other options available.
She sat in her chair, staring at the screen of her two newest scientific advisors and the troop transport she sent with them. Her brow flicked upwards for a brief moment as they finished explaining the events which transitions. Off to the side, she noticed the second prototype blue crystal they produced.
"Let me see if I got this straight." She frowned. "You claim a powerful and rare Pokémon. A Metang. Attacked your practise run and destroyed the two prototypes you brought for testing. The original electric-crystal and your new water one?"
"C-correct," the large man stuttered.
"And you didn't capture it because?" she asked, tightening her fist.
"W-we were caught off guard a-and-" the silver haired women stuttered.
"Enough of your blabbering. You was able to provide the correct elemental crystal for our next mission and so I'll allow your slacking for today," she replied, "now I'm about to meet with the client so keep up your other projects until further instructed. And don't fail me again."
The screen turned black, and she stood up from the seat. Pressing a series of buttons on the arm rest, the screen raised up and the floor lowered down into a ramp. Flicking her wrist, she released her large blue dragon who stood behind her. Walking out of the building, she had a couple more henchmen push the crystal along on a set off wheel.
Stepping onto the ground, she found herself in front of a large water source with a couple large man stood. One was dressed in dark blue trousers with ripped cloths dangling down. Looking closely, she realised it was actually an all-in-one swimsuit, completed ripped to shreds. Blue zigzaggy marks with over his forehead and side of his face. A single golden chain was dangling around his neck with some sort of dark blue neck guard on. Despite being shirtless, he had the aqua symbol painted on his chest. While the second man stood in front of the first, in a similar blue swimsuit but one not ripped appeared. A blue bandana covered his head with the aqua symbol printed in white. Golden chain around his waist shimmered. He stepped forward with a narrowed gaze.
"Ahoy!" The second man bellowed, "Huntress J, I presume?"
"Hunter," she snapped, "and I assume you're the clint?"
"Names Archie and-" His accent was thick and loud.
"Don't care," she cut him off, "just tell me if you have our agreed price."
"Your job here is going to help save thousands of lives," he declared, with open arms, "once we have the prince of the sea within our grasp, we'll-"
"I really don't care," she shook her head, "now the payment. Half up front, other half when done."
"What if I said we didn't have it?" he asked.
She frowned. Raising her arm, she quickly fired her gold beam at the clear second in command. Freezing him in place, she marched forward, keeping her cold dead eyes locked on the self-established leader of this little rag-tag group.
"Do you have the payment?" she asked, leaning forward into a whisper, "think very carefully before answering because if you drew me out here for nothing then I'll take everyone's Pokémon as penance for wasting my time and leave you all like your muscle man back there."
"Look around girly, ya be outnumbered ten to one." Giving a sideways glance towards the two open areas, she noticed squads of grunts closing in around them. While she knew she had Salamence behind and few henchmen to help with moving.
"Whoever told you that there's power in numbers, never met me," she hissed, "now this is your last chance. And I'm only giving it because one, the price agreed for the job is very tempting. And two, I enjoy a challenge on the hunt. Which this job should provide."
"Alright me hearties, bring out da booty," he yelled. Two of the grunts approached with a large blue treasure chest, tossing it onto the ground in front of her with a heavy thump, "five hundred gold doublooms, aye?"
"Certainly, on brand," she muttered to herself, examining the box. Her goggles materialised over her eyes and many statistics formed around her. Taking into account the average shape and size of one of the gold coins, and the measurement from the box. Her calculations confirmed the amount he declared. Having her device retract, she nodded to her henchmen, who picked it up. Carrying it onto the ship, she turned back to the client. "I presume you want the demonstration for how we'll capture the target for you?"
"Aye, it be appreciated." His eyes narrowed, "and fixing me old sea-growlithe Mattie too."
"You've got a Sharpedo on hand... release it into the lake." His eyes frowned but he took the device out of his pocket and released the dark water type into the water. It poked just out of the water, staring at her. While certainly a formidable member of it's species, and one able to bring a nice price tag. It's her first rule, never double cross a client first. It's just bad business and would lead to her clients going elsewhere with their money.
Clicking her fingers, the remaining henchmen finished rolling the crystal forward. Raising her arm up, she typed into the mech-piece which made up her lower limb. The crystal glew bright blue, with a lighter shade shield expanding outward. it passed over the water source and began absorbing the element into it's grasp, creating a water bubble around it. Dragging the brutal Pokémon into the sphere. Despite struggling against the machine, the water-bound Pokémon was useless to fight against it.
"By drawing out the molecules which make up water attacks, it prevents the target using other moves to fight back," she explained, "and is simply draining energy to ensure a successful capture with my golden-gun, which your muscle man now has first-hand experience with."
"It be impressive," he nodded. Tapping some more buttons on the device, she watched it power down. Leaving the water to flood the ground, some falling back into the lake, while the water dark type panted heavily, flopping on the ground.
"I assume that's everything for now?" she asked. Turning down the dial, reversing the large man's golden-freeze effect.
"Ain't ya curious?" he asked, "I mean. The scurvy-dogs in law enforcement labled us as terrorists thanks to the landlubbers known as team magma."
"One man's terrorist is just another's revolutionist," she replied, "so I leave the politics for those with nothing better to do and just go where the money is."
"But ya can be proud of this job me lassie," he replied, "the chance to help pull the human race into the next stage of history. An unfounded peace and prosperity for all!"
"I already am proud of my work," she replied, turning her back, "and as promised, you'll have the legend known as prince of the sea, or Manaphy. By months end. At which point, the second half of your payment will be due."
"Ya don't think we'd hornswaggle ya, do ya?" he asked.
Instead of dignifying him with an answer, she passed by her dragon. He turned and followed her, as the remaining few henchmen wheeled the crystal back into her scout ship. Upon entering, she returned to the command seat and set the coordinates to her main ship... a small smirk crept upon her lips.
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...