Author's Note:
Here it is, a new capture but given it's previous appearances, can it really be classed as new? Either way, we're building up to something big if previous chapters were anything to go by and this is no different. We also get an introduction to a special trainer who we're also building up too but he's a little further off. Now you might think of the episode by a similar name, but this story is more of my own creation. This is also a bit of a smaller chapter, combine the previous gym battle and my work on the league battles as the reason as to why. I did consider throwing a battle in but it wouldn't have much point outside of buffering the length which isn't something I want to make a habit off. One thing that was asked was where the team rocket trio are. They have been put into witness protection so they might show up sooner or later. Also there seems to be a misconception around Steven giving out key stones. He didn't pick Serena because he's lazy but because he doesn't want to hand them out to just anyone. Giving them to a performer, she's unlikely to be using them given the rules around mega evolution. He is against trainer's having free access outright and found a loophole. Not much else to say, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Fifty-Seven: An Absol-ute Encounter
Serena smiled as she checked on her fairy type eeveelution. She was currently resting on an invisible platform of ESP which she provided, allowing her to easily carry her along their path. Brock's newest team member, Chimecho, was floating beside her. Helping diminish her aches with Heal Pulses along with keeping her company. Her eyes glanced down to the budging stomach and a certain excitement rushed through her. She couldn't wait to meet the kids.
"How you feeling now, Sylveon?" she mentally asked her fairy type eeveelution.
"Good," she sighed, with a visible eyeroll, "I just wish they'd hurry up already. I already feel ready to pop."
"The eggs will come when they're ready," Chimecho added, "you can't rush them... just like you can't rush one of those performances you work on."
"What would you know about it?" she snapped, wincing, letting out a groan of pain.
"I've helped deliver many Pokémon eggs from all different species," Chimecho replied, "I was a fully qualified Pokémon Nurse, I'll have you know. Now relax, the more worked up you get, the more it'll hurt."
"And the sooner I get 'em out?!" Sylveon practically yelled, "no pain no gain, right?"
"No. It doesn't work like that." Chimecho shook her head. Vibrating her body, she let out another heal pulse over the intertwine Pokémon. "In fact, the undo stress might actually delay the delivery."
"I hate to say it Sylveon, but I'd listen to Chimecho," she added, "and being honest... this is down to yours and Pikachu's actions sooo-"
"In that case, he can carry the eggs," she gasped.
Grinding her teeth, she took a deep breath. Letting out the slow, long breath, she saw her relax under the heal pulse curtsy of the wind chime Pokémon. Rolling her lips into her mouth to prevent smiling at the command, she turned her attention elsewhere, allowing her Pokémon to rest.
Letting the smile go, she turned towards the others. The one who drew her attention was May, she was off to the side, with her Spoink bouncing alongside her but she would occasionally glance over to the others. She didn't need to be a psychic to see she felt excluded. With a slight jog, she caught up to the others.
"-so how long are you planning on spending in Lilycove?!" Max exclaimed, drawing her attention.
The young boy was walking alongside the other members of their group, slightly ahead. His Castform was floating around his head, while his Treecko sat on his back, head poking over his shoulder. The only other Pokémon out being Pikachu, who kept glancing back, offering a small wave. He had tried to ride along on the psychic platform, but she managed to convince him not to... apparently, he took this whole responsibility thing to an overbearing level.
"At least a week," Brock replied, "but don't worry because it's one of the major cities in Hoenn. They'll have more than enough stuff for us to do whilst there."
"I just don't get why so long?" The young boy sighed.
"Well, it's so both Serena and May get a chance to compete," Ash added, "not to mention, it'll be around the time that Sylveon is ready to deliver her eggs, so we want to make sure she get properly checked out afterwards. I'm gonna be using that time to prep for the Mossdeep gym anyway."
"Are ya gonna use Aerodactyl?" The wide eyes of the youngest trainer caused her to laugh.
It's been a few days since they set off from Fortree and when Max saw the dinosaur for the first time, he went completely overboard in an adorable way. She has to admit, over their time together she's grown to see him as a sort of pseudo brother, but it seems like they have a closer relationship than his with May, although given the recent events... she isn't surprised. While she forgave May after the apology, some of the others haven't been so quick to the matter.
"I don't think so, Max?" Ash shook his head. "I know it's a psychic gym and it does double battles. That makes the combo of Duskull and Crawdaunt easy."
"But you don't have either with you right now?!" Max threw his hands up into the air. "And it would be sooo cool getting to see Aerodactyl battle."
"Didn't you want the Silver conference?" Brock asked. "He's got a few battles which were televised actually."
"Well yeah," he muttered, scratching the back of his head whilst letting out a nervous chuckle, "but it's not the same as watching 'em battle in person."
"Max..." Ash sighed. "Think of it like this. Gyms are meant to be a challenge. If I just went straight in with Aerodactyl, he'll likely win just because like you said, he is my strongest Pokémon. What would I get out of that? Or Aerodactyl or any of my other Pokémon? They already have proven themselves multiple time. I decided when we came to Hoenn to just use the Pokémon that I met here-"
"Pikapi!"
"-except for one battle, which Pikachu called dibs in." Ash corrected himself without breaking. "Which'll be the final gym battle. It's become a sort of tradition at this point for us. Right buddy?"
"Chu." He nodded.
"Then why keep Aerodactyl on hand?" he asked, "he hasn't really been training with the others either. More just giving guidance like a teacher or something."
"That's because I want to keep him flying fit," he explained, "basically, he's our insurance in case Sylveon goes into labour early. I know Brock has been reading up on how to deliver eggs but if things take a bad turn, he can get us to Lilycove in no-time flat."
"It would still be so awesome to see-"
A loud sound drowned out the young boy. If she had to guess, it sounded like multiple helicopter's passing by all at once. The bright sun above disappeared with a massive shadow covering the ground around them. She pinched her lips together and frowned at the interruption.
"What's that?" Max's voice struggled to ask over the loud noise.
Turning upwards, her eyes widened, and mouth dropped slightly. Flying above them was some sort of square-base pyramid which had the four corners connect at the top. Each corner of the base broke off, revealing a powerful propeller blade fan allowing to keep it airborne. A sheen black colour shone under the bright Hoenn sun. Watching it closely, they saw it land somewhat nearby but due to the size, it stood out like a sore thumb over the tree-line.
"I... have no idea," Brock uttered.
"But I say we go and find out!" Ash added.
"Is investigating the giant flying pyramid really a sensible choice?" she heard May asked with a grumble.
"It's not about being sensible," Ash replied, which brought a chuckle out of her. With him, that's normally last in the list of consideration, "it's a giant flying pyramid... you can't tell me you're not curious."
"I am!" Max chirped, throwing his hand into the air. His two Pokémon leaping up with emphasis.
"I must admit, I am too," Brock mused, scratching his chin whilst nodding his head. "What about you Serena?"
"Well, yeah, of course," she replied, "but May is also right, we should be cautious."
"What if this turns out to be team magma or-"
"May, I don't want to be that guy but after the whole, nearly erupting a volcano, I think team magma are lying low," Ash explained, "the opposite of whoever is flying that thing. But tell you what, if they are team magma then the next flying pyramid we see, we'll ignore."
"Har-har." She faked laughed. Crossing her arms and walking up to them. "I didn't say I wasn't curious but... we can't be too careful."
"What're the chances of us finding two flying pyramids?" Max asked.
"Probably the same as finding one of them," Brock suggested, "but who knows, maybe the designer moved on to giant flying Meowth statues instead."
"Is everyone just making jokes about this now?" she found herself asking.
"Come on babe, it's a giant flying pyramid," Ash encouraged, "when else will we get to make jokes about it?"
Her eyes widened and glanced to the side. Sure, he's been calling her babe for a while but usually when alone. Seeing that none of the others seemed to react to the nickname, she inwardly sighed, slouching in her stance. After a moment, she flicked her brow down, she'll get him back for that.
She looked up at the sight of the pyramid just along the path as they approached some sort of door. Walking out of the massive building was a tall old man with sleek silver hair. His build was rather impressive whilst dressed in some sort of green exploration outfit. Holding out two Pokéballs, he released his Pokémon, one of which she recognized as a Solrock and the other as a Ninjask. Both floated right in front of him.
With Ash leading the way, they closed in and all three of them turned to look at them. He crossed his arms and frowned. Whispering something to the two team members, they both nodded and set off in opposite directions. Looking up at the man, she couldn't help but feel intimidated.
"Hello," Ash greeted as they came to a stop just in front of him.
"Can I help you children?" he asked, a stern undertone lining his voice. His eyes flicked over to her before down to Sylveon, "your Pokémon appears in distress. Are you in need of medical assistance?"
"N-not right now," she stuttered, "you see, Sylveon is expecting some eggs so-"
"Fine!" he interjected, "what is it you require?"
"W-well we." Ash visible gulped. "We were just passing along when you flew overhead. A-and we've never seen anything like your... pyramid-"
"You simply came to investigate that which intrigued you?" he asked to which they slowly nodded, "haha, good! That is a sign of a true adventurer!"
"So can you tell us about it?" Max asked.
"This is called the battle pyramid! And I am Brandon, pyramid king!" He announced with open arms. A strong smirk and glint in his eye for good measure.
"Battle?" Ash perked up, "so your like some sort of super strong trainer?"
"I'm not like anything," he dismissed, "tell me son, have you heard of the battle frontier challenge?"
"N-no, not really," he muttered, "only in passing. I competed in the silver conference last year and I heard rumours Dahlia from Johto's elite four was joining it. But I couldn't tell you much about it."
"The battle frontier is a true test of a trainer's skill. Each frontier brain is on the level of elite four members, if not greater," he explained, "we currently have two regions set up for the challenge. Kanto and Sinnoh but our president is working on expanding it through other regions too."
"Is that why your here in Hoenn?" Max asked.
"NO!" His voice echoed around them, "along with being pyramid king, I am an archaeologist. I explored some ruins around her many years ago but now I'm in search of something new. Coordinates for an exhibition and I'm returning to these ruins for some sort of clue."
"What sort of exhibition are you focusing on?" she asked.
"I specialise in ancient Pokémon," he replied, "those lost through time and-"
"Like legendary Pokémon?" Max asked. "Or resurrected fossils?"
"NO!" She couldn't help but swallow hard at his strong tone. He certainly wasn't shy or easy to intimidate. "While they share some similarities and the main subjects of my research were once considered legendary, I've proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are not. Those are my speciality."
"Which Pokémon do you study?" Brock asked.
"At the moment, I'm studying a species known as regi's. Singular monoliths of a given element scattered around the world," he explained, "while their original creator, Regigigas, is a legend without a doubt. Those that he scattered around the world were placed to help harness their element in growth."
"Are you saying one of those regi's is nearby?" Ash asked.
"I already uncovered the one who rested within the local ruins years ago, as I previous stated," he replied, "now I've come to restudy the ruins writings to figure out where else I need to search. I recently got a break from the battle frontier for this expedition."
"But if you're the pyramid king then won't you be needed in your home region for challengers?" Max asked.
"We only have one trainer currently operating through our facilities right now and he's still got two other frontier brains to pass before he gets the right to challenge me," he replied, "when that changes, the president shall contact me, and I'll return. Until then, I'm going to continue my investigation. The battle frontier is just my funding source for the archaeology."
"Could we help you?" Ash asked.
"You've got guts kid, I'll give you that," he grunted, "but why should I let you? I don't even know who you are."
"I'm Ash Ketchum from Pallet town and I'm going to become a Pokémon master," he declared, "so whatever I can learn from a pyramid king will be worth it."
"Ketchum?" His eyebrow flicked up, "any relation to Red Ketchum?"
"Yeah, he's my dad why?" he asked.
"He was my main competition for the title of pyramid king," he replied.
"You battled and beat my dad?" he asked.
"NO!" His voice boomed, "your father declined to compete for the job. So, I never needed to face him in battle. I was defaulted into the position."
"If you don't mind sir," Brock interjected, "but professional battler and archaeologist sound like two very different job titles. Why-"
"So, are we able to help you find these ruins?" he asked.
"Fine." The large man rolled his eyes. "The more of us there are, the quicker we get this over with. Just don't touch anything, got it. One of you can join me to the resting chambers for the regi I found. Solrock went ahead to help clear the path of any wild Pokémon."
"I'll do that!" Ash jumped forward with a wide smile.
"The rest of you can head south to the uncovered area." He held out a camera which Brock accepted. "A separate team which undug the surrounding area, looking to learn about the civilisation which helped build them has been at work since my original expedition. They could hold more clues so photograph them and we'll meet back here at sunset."
"Awesome!" Max cheered
"If it's all the same to you guys, I'm gonna stay here," she spoke up, "Sylveon needs a rest, and we could use the change for practising for the showcase."
"Pikachu," Ash turned to his electric type. "You wanna stay with Sylveon?"
"Chu." He nodded.
"I'll stay too, Serena," May added, "use the chance to prep for the Lilycove contest."
Everyone seemed to nod in agreement, and they set off in their own directions. She watched them set off in the two pairs with a smile on her face. Using her ESP to unravel a blanket on the floor, she watched the parents-to-be crawl onto it and curl up. Feeling herself get excited for the prospect of the arrival, she turned around, forcing her attention back to here and now.
"So, May," she greeted, "why did you decide to hang back?"
"You know," she muttered, "exploring ancient ruins isn't exactly my thing and I wanna get ready for the Lilycove contest."
"Are you sure it's nothing else?" she asked, settling Sylveon down on a blanket with Chimecho nearby. "Like Max still not having forgiven you?"
"I just don't know what's taking him so long," she sighed, "I know we fight but we do that then make up. Always have done. Why is this time different?"
"I don't know," she admitted, walking over to her, "but you can't just wait for it. You've extended a tree branch so now you need to wait and see."
"Can't you just... explore his head?" She asked, "find out why he's being so stubborn and-"
"No May, I can't." she shook her head. "Yes, a psychic is able to read others thoughts but I need to be granted access. I don't see him doing that and if I try to force it then I could cause irreversible damage. I am hardly an expert with my abilities remember and besides... he'd likely just become mad about it instead. How would you feel if I just read your mind back when we battled before Fortree to find out you just wanted to see Drew again?"
"I-it wasn't just that," she stuttered. Her cheeks burning bright red at the implication.
"Sure," she smirked, standing over her and offering a hand, "now I thought we we're going to win our next ribbon and key in Lilycove. Sitting around chatting isn't going to help us get them."
"Right." She smirked, jumping onto her feet.
"I'm gonna set my guys onto their training if you wanna do the same then I'll come over to help and give tips," she suggested, turning around. Using her ESP to levitate the series of Pokéballs on her belt. Each burst open, revealing her current line-up of Cacnea, Dustox, Meditite, Kirlia, Zangoose and Bagon.
With her mind back on track, she set up Meditite, Kirlia and Cacnea to put the final touches on the freestyle performance. Leaving her Pokegear for them to play the respective song through. Watching the first run through, whilst rusty, they definitely got the hang of it. While Bagon ended up battling each other, even if not specifically going for a battling goal right now, she never knows when the need would arise so best keep everyone on their toes.
Standing beside her was the pure normal type. Walking away from the others, she sat down and gestured for the cat ferret Pokémon to do the same.
"So Zangoose, I wanted to speak with you." She mentally connected their inner voices. "Or well. Ash and I agreed this needed doing."
"Do you need my guidance on how to deal with him?" the normal type asked, with an obvious side-eye.
"No, and I'm not your daughter remember," she replied, "it's actually to do with Seviper. In case you didn't notice, she's been less hostile recently-"
"I have," he interjected, "I figured the battles your boyfriend puts her in have been a good release for her anger."
"Guess again." she sighed, leaning back. "You didn't see her recent gym challenge, did you?"
"No... but I heard from Master Torkoal-"
"Master?" She clarified.
"He is a wise combatant and fierce tactician," he nodded, "so I asked for guidance in the art of combat, and he took me under his shell. He is now my sensei."
"When did our team become some sort of kung fu dojo?" She asked, shaking her head, "anyway what-"
"Just wait until we find a Pangoro for his Spinda-student to train!" Pikachu's mental voice echoed though her's. "The crossover will be legendary!"
"Remind me again why your boyfriend thought it sound to bring the yellow one back from that lab?" Zangoose asked.
"Rude!"
"Can we just return to what we were talking about." She paused, taking a deep breath. Being sure to set up a mental block to prevent outside voices breaking through. "She needs you Zangoose. She needs to know the truth about-"
"No!" He shot up. "She isn't ready."
"She isn't or you're not?" She asked, standing up to meet her normal type.
"I said no."
"I heard what you said." She crossed her arms, tapping her foot whilst staring him down. "So will you listen to what I've got to say?"
He stared her down with a frown. Unmoving, she returned the hard glance with one of her own. Feeling her hands tighten into a fist, she rolled her lips into her mouth. It felt like forever, but he eventually gave a small nod.
"Seviper is hurting," she explained, "she saw that day. It's mostly a blur but she saw bits of what happened. Her pack filled in the gaps but not with the truth. Not with your truth. She is angry and confused and she needs something to help her get though that-"
"How do you know what she needs?" he grumbled, "you're not even her trainer."
"Because I've seen this before... twice actually," she mumbled, "Hitmontop is currently going through something... like it. But I mostly mean Sandslash-"
"The one who put her in a hospital bed?" he growled, raising his sharp claws.
"Yes," she replied, "and the only time he seemed to even remotely get on the right track was when his truth was revealed. Except we didn't know the answers and the only person who did was never around. We didn't even have a way to contact them."
"I'll think about it, alright!" He stomped his foot down.
"And whilst you think about it, she will continue to suffer!" She stomped her own foot down. "How much does she need to suffer because you want time to think?! The sooner you tell her the better off for both of you!"
"Not for me," he shook his head, "she'll hate me!"
"News flash, she already hates you," Serena replied, "even if your right, how would this be any different?"
"I know how to handle this," he grunted, turning to the side, "if she knew-how could she forgive what I let happen?"
"You know Zangoose, I never really knew my father growing up." She took a deep breath and sat down. "I only met him last year... and... he wasn't the first thing I imagined him to be."
"You forgave him?" he asked, taking a seat next to her.
"No... I thought he was dead, and my mum had us do a runner to prevent him hurting me," she continued, "but I did forgive my mum."
"For what?" he asked.
"She told me he died. Let me go through the pain of his death and uprooted my entire life," she replied, "when I found that out... it hurt. Everything I knew was wrong but... when I learnt why... when I saw what she saved me from... that's what allowed me to forgive her."
"But I never saved anyone," he grumbled.
"Maybe not but that doesn't mean you're not worth forgiveness," she replied, stroking his white fur, "if you can show what you tried to do... that goes a long way."
"I'll think about it," he muttered.
Nodding in understanding, she stood up with him following suit. Turning around, they set off over towards May. She had her team out already. Combusken and Mightyena were locked in a close-range battle, with Spoink watching from beside her. While Beautifly, Mawile and Lileep all practised seemingly individual appeal performances. As she walked closer, she noticed May polishing her blue egg from the sky ceremony fate.
"You're really taking good of that egg, May," she smiled, standing over her.
"I can't wait to see it hatch," he uttered, not taking her eyes off the blue shell, "any idea which Pokémon this might be?"
"No clue." She sat next to her. "But I can tell you that raising an egg is unlike any other relationship between Pokémon and trainer. Especially, if whichever Pokémon is inside turns out to be a baby Pokémon."
"Baby Pokémon?" She blinked, glancing up.
"It's a specific subcategory for Pokémon which describes a Pokémon which needs more care than the typical newly hatched Pokémon," she explained, "I've only really seen an Azurill and Togepi. Azurill was Misty's Pokémon and Togepi was Ash's. The bond between them is unlike anything else."
"Your just making me more psyched for when this little one hatches." She smiled widely tightly hugging the egg. "When will you hatch?"
"A watched phone never rings, May," she smiled, standing up and holding her hand out to the brunette, "come on, let's take your mind off it with some more training and the egg will hatch when it's time."
With a wide smile on her face, she accepted the gesture. Being pulled up to her feet, the two girls got on with their training for the showcase and contest, respectively.
Ash smiled as he walked alongside the archaeologist. They were walking along a grassy field with a small number of Pokémon nearby, a few flying types flew out of the trees but not entire flocks and none really stood in their path.
"So, since you're a frontier brain, you must have a lot of experience." He spoke up. "Some really strong Pokémon."
"Every Pokémon can be strong, you just need the skills to bring them out. The only thing holding back any Pokémon from reaching it's true potential is the strength of their trainer's character." Brendon voice was low, and his scowl was questioning.
"How about we have a battle then?!" He asked, snatching a Pokéball of his belt. "I've-"
"No!" he roared. Stopping in his tracks, his wide eyes focused on the pyramid king. Hand shakily returning the device to his belt, "now is neither the time or place for a battle of skill. And you don't just get to challenge a brain when you feel like you're ready. You need to prove yourself first."
"H-how would I do that?" he asked, a slight quiver in his voice.
"If you don't know, I'm not at liberty to tell you," he replied, "I thought you wanted to explore those ruins anyway. A challenge like what your suggesting would just be a waste of time."
Biting down on his inner cheek, he shoved his hands into his pockets, following behind the large man. He knew Serena planned on talking with Zangoose once alone and didn't want to possibly interrupt them and he also didn't want to spoil the day for the others. Max loves this sort of thing, but he couldn't deny that he might've rushed into this one without thinking. Brendon might be a powerful trainer but unlike the other's he's got to meet, he's not-
Something hit the ground and a shockwave blew them back. A sharp pain shot through his body and his eyes squeezed shut.
He landed on his behind as he saw the archaeologist stood, covering his face with one arm, wind blowing past his clothes as his other hand grabbed a Pokéball with a frown on his face. Pushing himself up, he tried to squint through the surprise attack but found nothing on the other side.
"Have you identified our attacker?!" Brendon shouted.
"N-no," he uttered, taking a Pokéball off his belt, "go Aerodactyl and search from the sky!"
Tossing his device high into the air, his mighty dinosaur materialised in the air. With a mighty roar, he stared soaring around the sky as he caught the device in his hand. Standing back up, he clipped the device back to his belt and turned towards the pyramid king.
A loud roar drew their attention. His rock flying type launched down a series of rocks into the forest ground.
With a steep dive, he swirled across the floor, landing right next to him. The wind threatening to blow him over with the fossil Pokémon letting out a loud roar.
"Did you see what attacked us, Aerodactyl?" he asked.
"Some sort of white furred, canine Pokémon," he sighed, "I couldn't identify it further, sorry but I scared 'em off for now."
"It's okay," he sighed, patting the fossil Pokémon on the back, "we're safe now and that's all that matters."
"NO!"
His eyes widened and he turned to face the pyramid kind. He towered over him with budging eyes, framed by the brows pulled together in a scowl with rows of wrinkles covering his forehead. Feeling himself shrink, his bottom lip trembled under his authority.
"You rushed in and possibly made this entire expedition troublesome?!" He declared. "Jeopardizing our safety for the rest of the time here. As well as that of your friends. Our judgments when we are pleased and friendly are not the same as when we are pained and hostile."
"What're you talking about?" he asked.
"Whoever our adversary was, likely had a reason for their actions. This could be their territory, their home," he replied, "we are the unacquainted and should act like a courteous guest. How would you react if a few strangers walked into your home without even a single word?"
"B-but you said Solrock went to warn the wild Pokémon," he stuttered, "and we were attacked."
"We have not re-encountered Solrock either. We can only assume more live in this area than anticipated. If this is their home and they have a family... I can't say I blame them for attacking," he growled, "and due to our actions, we could now be seen as a hostile invader. As well as your friends. Assuming we just encounter a scout giving a fair warning, your Aerodactyl made a declaration of war in return."
"So, what should I have done?" he asked.
"Wait to identify the adversary. A trainer of your supposed experience should know they're smart sentient creatures who we might've talked down," he replied, "only make hostile action when their's no other choice. A strong trainer knows when to act but more importantly when not too."
"I just-"
"NO!" He cut him off. "Excuses are pointless now. What's done is done. The ruins are just ahead, and we should finish what we came here for before your actions cause more issues for either ourselves or your friends."
Unable to bring himself to say anything, he nodded and followed the formidable trainer towards the large ruins. An ancient stone staircase led them underground cavern. Turning on the hand-torch given by the frontier brain, he scanned the walls, noticing several different images decorating the wall. He noticed one of a large Pokémon who sort of looked humanoid but more... square.
"It's called Regigigas." Brendon's voice echoed. "It was once believed to be the legend who moved continents into their position."
"I thought Groundon created the continents," he muttered.
"They did and Kyogre the oceans." He nodded. "They were always waging war trying to dominate the planet. The sprats between aqua and magma in Hoenn currently are no different... those who don't learn from history are doomed to repeat it."
"So, what's Regigigas got to do with anything?" he asked.
"The last time the god of land and god of sea fought was the only recorded time in human history. Hoenn was once attached to the main-land of Johto, Kanto and Sinnoh but that battle broke them off. Regigigas was first seen at that time, moving the humans and Pokémon in the two titans way. A protector of sorts."
"Cool..."
"As far as I can tell from my research. Regigigas was a sort of jack-of-all-trades legend. Recently created to help progress civilisation through creating the regi's. A group of Pokémon once also considered legendary to help master elements which have flung us through our different medieval histories. From metals and minerals to more advancements like electricity. It's my belief that we'll eventually find a regi of each type"
"Once considered?" he asked. "It sounds like Regigigas created the Regi's like how Ho-Oh revived eeveelutions to create Suicune, Entei & Raikou."
"I don't believe them to be fully formed legends either but they're outside of my field," he replied, "I consider legendries to be tiered. Traditional legends are what I consider to be god tier. Then we have mythicals, which have been well established then we have the errand runner's which is which I believe don't qualify for legendary title as the only role they fulfil is one of assistance to an already established legendary. Usually created by them."
"This is the first time I've heard of this sort of system for determining legendries," he admitted. "How do you describe them?"
"What we know as legendary has a layering to them. At the top we have those that helped bring the universe into what we know as. The creation trio spoken off in ancient Sinnoh texts and corresponding helpers. Like Celebi as a timer-aider for the god of time or Mew, who was a simple life form to populate the world with Pokémon. Adapting over thousands of years to be an ancestor for the Pokémon of the world we know off today. With the creation trio building other legends to help stabilise the planet. Groundon for creating land-masks or Kyogre for the oceans. Lugia for the currents or Rayquaza for the ozone."
"So, you consider them legendries?" he asked.
"Yes." He nodded. "Then came the mythicals. Some of which we've already covered but as intelligent life expanded over the planet, more diverse issues arose and the need for more specific roles became apparent. For example, a couple being to control dreams and nightmares. A role not previously required."
"But the regi's aren't legendary Pokémon?" He asked.
"I don't believe so. There are several instances of legendries either building assistances from scratch or transforming seemingly normal Pokémon into them, such as the beasts of Johto or birds of Kanto. I don't subscribe to the label of legendary because while they have long lives, they aren't unique or powerful enough to match the previous legendries we've already discussed."
"What about when the kanto birds nearly destroyed the world at Shamouti?" he asked, "if Lugia hadn't-"
"How do you the details of what happened?" he asked, "my team went researching after the fact and the responses were... mixed. We felt like something was being hidden but we couldn't prove any misconduct from those we interviewed. Some couldn't even identify one of the elemental birds."
"I erm, well-" he stuttered.
"Do you need a distraction?" Aerodactyl muttered, knowing the pyramid king wouldn't understand him.
Turning to the rock flying type, he pointed to a far wall which showed images of several small Pokémon of general shape. Some sort of x shape symbol but with squared off bottoms followed by images of enlarged Pokémon. The two of them moved closer to investigate.
"What'cha find, Aerodactyl?" he asked. Inspecting the images closer, "does this mean anything to you?"
"I believe it does," he mused, grabbing a snapshot of the writing on the wall. "Come on, we need to leave."
"How come?" He tried to keep up as they ran back upstairs but remained slightly behind.
"I believe I know the region that those images relate too, and I am not one to tempt fate," he replied, "need I remind you of the rush in chasing off our attacker's previously?"
"Yeah but-"
"We have the information I need which is good enough," he interjected, "and if the hostiles haven't returned to us then I fear they would've gone after your friends."
"You heard him Aerodactyl, go find Brock and Max," he instructed, "and we'll meet back at Brandon's pyramid."
With a serious nod, his fossil Pokémon took off. Disappearing among the skylines. He turned his attention ahead with the point of the pyramid just over the treeline. While he knew Serena could certainly protect herself and May... he still wouldn't be able to stand it if they were attacked because of his actions.
Serena smiled as Zangoose finished fighting Spoink. While not a natural contest star, she can certainly see her normal type attempting to put effort into showing off his skilfulness... even if this is more for the psychic types benefit.
"Well done, you two." She smiled, clapping whilst walking forward. "I'm gonna check on Sylveon so take five."
"I'll join you, with my little egg," May added with a smile, picking up the blue-shelled-oval.
The two walked back towards the pyramid, with the parents-to-be lying down on a blanket. She cast a glance to the side to see May humming a tune to her own egg and she couldn't help but smile. Sure, they might've had issues in the friendship, but she knew how maturing taking care of a new-hatch could be so seeing her take this seriously... it really warmed her heart... maybe she should consider bringing Pupitar over for a bit or-
Her thoughts were interrupted when she saw Pikachu's ears perk up. Sylveon's feelers followed suit as she struggled to her feet. Throwing her own hands up, she felt the ESP tingle through her veins, her vision coloured by the psychic powers.
A gust of wind blew past them. In a white blur, a familiar looking Pokémon stood between them and the parents-to-be, "A-Absol?"
"Do you think it's the same one we met during the millennium comet?" May asked.
"I'm not..." she mumbled, staring down at the dark type. Her eyes locked with his and her mind flashed back to the time in the tent, where her eyes were locked with his and again on top of mount Chimney. Kneeling down, she couldn't bring herself to blink. "He is."
"How can, you be sure?" May asked.
"Sol, Absol."
"I... Absol, can I try something?" she asked. Seeing his undivided attention, she took a deep breath, "I'm a psychic if you remember... but that doesn't mean much to a dark type. I've been trying to learn miracle eye but... all my dark types I kinda already get so I'm not sure if it works or if I'm just kidding myself."
"Ab-sol."
"What I'm asking is... would you let me try it on you?" she asked, "if it works then we can properly communicate. If not, then nothings lost."
He stopped dead in his tracks. A few meters away from her face with his eyes darting around her's. She couldn't help but swallow hard at the millions of hidden questions behind his dark eyes. It felt like forever, but he soon gave a small nod, walking forward to close the gap.
"Thank you," she whispered.
Closing her eyes, she channelled her powers through one arm. Reaching out she felt the surprisingly soft fur decorating his head. Pushing her powers through, it felt like a whirlwind as her mind was thrusted forward into his. She found herself stood in total darkness. Like she woke up in the middle of the night but with nothing around... not even Absol was present in his mind.
She attempted to step forward but couldn't be sure it work. With a deep breath, she summoned a second wave of energy. Attempting to illuminate the endless darkness, she panted heavily from the blow. Collapsing down onto her knees, she glanced forward. Almost like a ghost, Absol fade in front of her. The canine was semi-transparent, fading in and out of sight.
"Hello," she tried to call out, "Absol... can you hear me?"
"I can," he replied in barely above a whisper. "Th-thank you... for the... Jirachi..."
"You don't need to thank me." she smiled. "I just did what anyone would've... and it was the others who helped too."
"Also... for Groundon..." His voice added.
"You can sense disasters, right?" she asked, "tell me if you can about why you found us..."
"The egg... your friend... Soon they'll... protect them?"
"You want help to keep them save?" she asked.
"I must... sea prince... great flood..."
"Why can't you just tell me what's going to happen?" she asked.
"Don't know... just snapshots... clearer the closer..."
Flying backwards, she found herself on her behind. Back in the real world, spots formed within her sight. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath to regain composure. Reopening her eyes, she noticed Absol shaking his fur before staring back at her.
"Are you alright?" May asked, kneeling beside her. Giving a small nod, she focused on the pure dark type.
"Sorry for that Absol, guess I still have some work to do," she mumbled, "but can I ask you some stuff now? Face to face?"
He gave a small nod.
"You can sense oncoming disasters but not specifics, right?" she asked, to which he nodded, "you mentioned it becoming clearer the closer we get. Is it like that for everything or not?"
He gave another nod. Sighing, she leaned back. Giving a side glance to May, she knew they'd need to tell her what Absol warned but one issue at a time.
"Alright Absol... we both want to help right?" she asked, to the same response, "then... how about you join my team. It'll allow us to work together and better coordinate our movements. If once this thing is done you wanna go, I won't stop you."
Staring into his blood red eyes. She could almost see the wheels turning behind his head. She never intended to offer this but given the danger presented to her friend, having someone who can help keep her safe is something she can't pass up. After what felt like hours, he gave a small nod, bowing his head.
Relaxing in her stance, she stretched out a hand and used her powers to levitate a Pokéball out of the bag left beside the parents to be. It floated into her hand, and she held it out. The pure dark type tapped his horn against the device, disappearing in a red light. Dinging in her hand, she used her powers to bring her Pokédex over to scan him:
Absol, The Disaster Pokémon. It was once believed that this Pokémon creates disasters wherever they go but recent research has proved they have the unique ability to sense oncoming disasters, instead working to alert those who would be affected.
Type: Dark
Ability: Super Luck
Hidden Ability: Justified (Note: This hidden ability is currently unlocked)
Gender: Male
Nature: Brave (Note: This nature is unlikely to change due to the Pokémon being fully evolved)
Move(s): Quick Attack, Leer, Double Team, Knock Off, Detect, Taunt, Slash, Night Slash, Focus Energy, Sucker Punch, Swords Dance, Shadow Claw, Megahorn, Psycho Cut, Iron Tail, Zen Headbutt, Throat Chop, Aerial Ace
Serena's Pokédex switched screens to a list of her current on hand team, although only Absol was a shilluette out of all the images, "please select which Pokémon you wish to send back."
She sighed and glanced around her team. Reaching to her belt, she ended up taking off Bagon's device first. Holding it out she recalled the dragon type, giving her a silent psychic message. Seeing her image change on the device, she pressed the button and watched the ultra-ball teleport away.
With a heavy sigh, she stood up and turned to May. Giving her an overview of what she got from Absol, it went about as well as could be expected. By the time they finished, she noticed Ash and Brendon walking... or running back in her boyfriend's case.
"Your all alright?" he asked, panting whilst leaning against his legs.
"Yes, we're fine," she replied, "I mean... we've got some stuff to talk about but of course we're fine... why?"
"We... kinda got attacked," he muttered, "and after scaring them off-"
A burst of light shot off her belt and her newest team member materialised. Standing in front of her, he growled threateningly towards Ash with teeth flaring and claws scraping into the dirt ground. Seeing his eyes widened, she lept forward, petting his head in a soothing way.
"Whoa, calm down Absol," she whispered, "it's just my boyfriend. Nothing's wrong."
He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Loosening his stance, she sighed in relief. Hearing a quiet mutter, she turned her gaze upward to the raven-haired boy standing over them. Feeling the dark types hairs stand on end, she glanced between the two of them.
"What Ash?" She focused on him, not quite hearing what he said.
"We didn't see who attacked us, but Aerodactyl mentioned a white furred canine..." He uttered, not taking his eyes off her new dark type.
"Is it true, Absol?" she asked, "did you attack them?"
"Sol, Absol!"
"Hey-"
"What did he say?" she asked, seeing her boyfriend frown.
"He said that he didn't see us, just sense some on coming disaster and acted on instinct." He crossed his arms over his chest. "And he said that now he's seen it was me, he knew what the disaster was."
She covered her lips, letting out a small giggle. Ash has always had a skill for attracting danger in one way or another but hearing it like this is actually quite amusing. A small part of her, one she's ashamed off, is a little happy. After the pain of Meganium not liking her, she is a little amused to see the reverse happening here. Of course, once the issue with May's egg is sort, she'll let Absol go but even if for a short while it'll feel... refreshing.
It didn't take long before Brock and Max returned with Aerodactyl. Who landed right beside him as the Pyramid King walked out. Accepting the camera from the two guys, he turned to face Ash once more.
"The way you claim to be able to understand Pokémon," he muttered, "it's... there's only one way through history which could explain it."
"Aura," he replied.
"Your educated on the matter," he mused, "and you possess mega evolution... okay then child, I'll contemplate your battle challenge, but I have a few conditions. Firstly, you must use your mega evolution and it'll be two on one."
"That's not fair, how do you expect Ash to take on two opponents at once?" she asked.
"You misunderstood," he replied, "I'll be the one to use one Pokémon. I truly wish to see the extent to which his team works together, and this shall be your opponent. Regirock, I need your assistance!"
In a flash of light, a large Pokémon materialised which mountain over everyone in sight. A massive shadow blocked out the sunlight and she had to crank her head back to take in the giant. She was about five and a half feet and this Pokémon easily stood triple her height, with a wider build than even Snorlax. The body was made up of brown and orange rock, with a pattern of seven orange dots on the face which resembled the capital letter 'H'. Two long arms with jutting shoulders and club-like hands without fingers. A line of orange rocky spines running down the back and legs were short in comparison to the body. She tried to breath as she stepped back but couldn't due to the sheer size of the opponent. She scrambled to scan with her Pokédex:
Regirock, The Rock Peak Pokémon. This is considered a legendary. Regirock was sealed away by people long ago. If this Pokémon's body is damaged in battle, it is said to seek out suitable rocks on its own to repair itself. Created by Regigigas as a pillar for an element granted to humanity in the time
"Are you sure you can handle such an opponent, child?" the pyramid king asked with his arms crossed.
"We'll do our best, right guys?" he asked, looking between Pikachu on his shoulder and Aerodactyl behind.
"Very good," he nodded, "and we'll use the battlefield inside. I don't wish for us to cause more damage to the scenery."
Turning on a heel, the pyramid king and his pure rock type walked back into the pyramid. The door expanded upwards and wider to allow the giant entrance with them following behind. With her boyfriend leading the way, she wasn't surprised by his choice of Pokémon. Neither Aerodactyl nor Pikachu have a type advantage but are arguably his two most experienced. Aerodactyl in terms of actual experience while he has the most personal time with his starter.
She highly doubted they'd be seeing a victory in Ash's favour, but she knew that wasn't why he wanted to battle Brandon. This would be a great chance to properly test out Aerodactyl's mega evolution and learn from a champion level opponent. She felt a tap on her shoulder, so she turned to Max.
"So, you caught the Absol from before?" Max asked.
"Temporarily." She corrected. "He's sensed something coming up and-"
"About my egg, right?" May asked, to which she nodded, "we can't let anything happen to it."
"I thought you didn't approve of our getting involved?" Brock asked.
"This is different-"
"How?" Max asked. "Every time they've acted, if they ran away then good people would get hurt."
"And we'll stand here doing it, always," Serena added, "so don't worry. Whenever this thing starts, whatever it is, we'll help you."
"I just wish we had a better idea of what we're facing," Brock mused, "didn't Absol give any more of an indication?"
"He mentioned prince of the sea, I guess," she shrugged, "but it's not as straight forward as being told what's happening. It's more like visions of what'll happen but they're blurry, getting clearer as the event gets closer."
"Still, having someone who can give us the heads up would be useful," Brock shrugged.
Smiling at the thought, she couldn't deny how useful that sort of thing would be. A lot of times they've been caught off guard and had to make things up on the spot but with a little pre-warning, they could really get the upper hand and potentially stop this before it starts. Although right now, they have a battle to watch.
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...