Author's Note:
Here it is, the final of the hunter J and Manaphy arc. This is a sad day because I don't have plans to bring J back until Sinnoh which is further away than you might think. We've got the rest of Hoenn, then Drake's adventure in Unova, then the battle frontier before we reach that arc. I really wanted to bring her back sooner and believe me, I tried but couldn't fit her in without just adding her because I want her in it. We also get more hints towards her backstory. Along with the other plot lines from this multi-part-arc being cleaned up. I don't focus much on May but that's because next chapter will be my exploration of her forced departure from Manaphy. Also, Gyarados. Anyway, we have a lot of stuff to get too so I won't keep you too long. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin...
Chapter Sixty-Six: Pokémon Hunter & Prince of the Sea P III
He watched as the two dragons danced around the sky as he rode on top of the red Gyarados. Just like the last time they duelled; his partner held the speed advantage but couldn't overpower the more restricted flier. The image of them attempting overcome his old instructor back in the academy.
Glancing back to the boat, he noticed the short distance. Signalling to the atrocious Pokémon, he came to a stop. Using the momentum, he flew across the gap and landed on the railings. Pulling himself up, he faced off against the silver haired women, who smirked in his direction. Pushing himself up, he began walking towards her, reaching to his belt for the handcuffs.
"J. I am placing you under arrest on suspicion of terrorism, attempted murder, and theft. And for the open warrants on the crimes of murder, treason, Pokémon trafficking and crimes of war, spread over several regions including, Kanto, Johto, Hoenn, Unova, Kalos and Orre. You do not need to say anything but anything you do say can and will be used against you in a court of law. It may also harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. You have the right to-"
She used the close proximity and delivered a punch to his chest. Sliding back slightly, he ended up dropping the restraints and narrowed his eyes.
"Always the boy scout," she rolled her eyes. "Did you really think you could take me in all on your own?"
Letting out a slow breath. He took off, charging towards the female criminal. She dropped down, swiping her leg across the floor.
Avoiding her mauver, he gave a small leap. Her fist landed directly in his stomach, causing him to crash on his behind.
She spun and kneeled on his chest, revealing his handcuffs he previously dropped. Swiping it down, one of his hands ended up in the brace.
"Just like the days back at the academy," she muttered, "shame you never learn-"
Kicking his leg up into her back, she went soaring overhead. Rolling onto his hands and knees, the metal accessory rattled against the floor.
Charging onto the downed criminal, he reached down to apprehender her, but she grabbed the chain. Pulling him over head, her leg hit his knee to stop any resistance he might've been able to put up. Next thing he knows, he lying flat on his back with her walking over, kneeling above his head.
"Always eager to rush in but fail to stop and ask the important questions." She grabbed his hand, attaching the open cuff side to a metal bar. "Like why would I wait here for your arrival when my crew already made their escape with the merchandise?"
Raising the metal gloved hand, she hit a button on the side, and it seemed to power down. Shrugged at the brace knuckle, she delivered several punches into his lower torso. The world began spinning after the second or third blow. Each breath became difficult as she relentlessly pummelled him. Coughing from the force exhale, he curled to the side, and she stopped, standing over him once more.
"W-why-"
"-would I wait here for your arrival?" she interjected, "well I'm glad you asked. You see your little officers are making my operations far more expensive and time consuming. I know Greevil likes to pick 'em young, I was... what, fifthteen when inducting me to the man-hunter programme? But those kids you endorse are really getting on my nerves so luckily for you, I need you alive to deliver my message. The next officers you send after me, I will kill and dump their bodies where they'll never be found. Then you'll get to tell their families how you knew what would happen and how you sent them to their deaths."
She stood and walked over across the deck. Reaching into his pocket, he groaned in pain as he fumbled for the key. Almost dropping the small item, he slotted it into the cuffs, and they opened, letting him free from the restraints. Rolling over onto his front, he winced from the strong pain.
His breathing was uneven due to the sheer pain from in his chest. Tentatively reaching for the area, he felt the tender area and already guessed the cause.
A thud to his side and his dragon flying type crashed onto the ground next to him. Dragonite laid motionless on the side, covering in burn and bite marks. Blood seeped out of scratches with his snout badly beat up. Hovering just overhead was the red-winged dragon who glared down with a smirk spread over his face. Lowering down until landing on the ground in front of them, his fangs burning with fire as he threatened to release the
"Such a shame that Dragonite got damaged... otherwise the partner of the great Lance of Kanto would've brought a nice sum." J shrugged, walking over to her pseudo legendary. Climbing onto his back and standing over them as they started taking off once more. "Guess we'll just need to accept the other products we received today. Just remember officer this is what happens when you get in my way."
Hovering over the ship, she pulled out some sort of button and pressed it. A massive blast erupted with flames spewing out from the side of the ship. He made a leap over to his Dragonite and held on tight as the rumble shook the entire ship. Looking up over the blast, he noticed the hunter flying away.
Clenching his jaw, he watched with his fists bowled up in anger. Chewing on his cheek, a beeping went off in his ear and he sighed, pressing the device he took out a Pokéball and recalled the pseudo legendary. Standing up despite the injuries and shaky ground.
"Sir! What should we do? Pursue or-"
"No... the ship is going down. She planted a bomb to ensure we couldn't pursue her." He instructed. "We need all hands to get the passengers off board and to safety. Our priority is saving lives. We'll need to go after J another day. Once everyone is off the ship, we need to get some idea of what J was after."
Moving to the side of the ship, he found Gyarados emerging from the water. Taking out another Pokéball, he released his Kingdra into the ocean, "I want you two to get underneath and hold the ship up. Buy us as much time as possible!"
Both gave a nod and dived under the ocean. Turning on a heel, he tried to take off, but his movements were limited. Rubbing his lower torso, he was familiar with the feeling of broken ribs from missions passed but right now he couldn't afford to waste time. Taking out his remaining device he released his remaining members on hand. One being a large Charizard with a mega stone plated around his neck and an Alolan Exeggutor.
"I need you two to get going and helping fly or lift passengers off and down to the officer ships." The two Pokémon nodded and took off. Crowds came storming out of one of the doors which lead inside.
Turning on a heel, he took off with his Haxorus by his side. Running slower than he would've liked, he made his way up to the destroyed captain's tower. Logic follows there's at least someone, if not more up there and after the commotion likely needs help. As he ran, the thought occurred to him that he could've used his mega Charizard in conjunction with Dragonite but given the issues he's had with the new form since taking the fire type from his grandfather, he couldn't risk the loss of control and it would've made matters worse for them overall.
As they came to the top of the stairs, his eyes widened at the sight. He struggled to keep his composure of the overall damage which sat around them.
Ash ran up onto the deck of the ship. Struggling to clip the last device back to his belt. Having recalled his team, he stopped at the sight. A massive sea serpent with red scales and white accents stared down at him whilst slightly submerged in water.
"Gyarados?" he gasped.
With a mighty roar, a beam of pure normal type energy formed at his mouth. Diving to the side from the hyper beam, something seemed to hit his back and force him to turn around. Firing his attack into the sky, he dived under the water and out of the reach of the other adversaries.
Flames of red and dark blue filled the sky as the outline of two dragons filled his vision. One being Salamence and the other Dragonite.
He assumed the former belonged to J herself but if his Gyarados is here then the Dragonite could only belong to Lance. His heart thumped against his chest as the thrill of having his childhood hero here to save them energised every cell. Seeing his reflecting in metal slab, he saw Serena's cheeks burning bright red.
Shaking his head, a rumble echoed, and he glanced up to see a ball of psychic and aura energy consuming the watch-tower. Without wasting a second, he took off towards the staircase, the warning his dad gave them replaying in his mind.
"It's because aura users and psychics are completely different. One is a bloodline gift given through the original one themselve. While the other was created by man, as a way to fight aura. If you active your powers and the aura senses, it then a battle will break out between the opposing forces. It'll tear your... or Ash's... body apart as well as anything else in the vicinity. Everyone will be at risk. Arceus knows how much damage will be caused until the aura finally subdues your own powers."
Swallowing hard at the possible outcomes, his mind focused on only Serena whose likely at the heart of this chaos. As he reached the staircase, he caught sight of two humans locked in some sort mixed-martial-arts fight. Imagine his surprise to see Lance and J in the hand-to-hand combat.
Not stopping as he started ascending up the staircase, he felt a blast of ESP boom out from the ongoing battle. While he saw the back of J's Drapion, he wasn't about to stop in this madness. Serena needs his help more than anyone. He soon came underneath the base of the swirling vortex around her... or him.
Knowing he had to get up to the forcefield, he glanced around. Metal pipping hung out of the wall which had been torn apart. His mind flashed with memories of different performances Serena performed and an idea popped in his head. A smirk spread over his lips and to he took off to the wall.
Jumping before impact, he used the little momentum to get a couple steps up the side. Reaching up to grab one of the metal poles, he tightened both hands around them. Once happy with the grip, he swung back and forth, picking up momentum. He ended up swinging all the way on top, landing on the pole in a crouching position. Leaping off with his biggest possible jump, he grabbed the next poll sticking out of the wall.
Seeing the top of the destroyed wall within reach, he pulled himself up and climbed onto the top. Now eye level with the swirling vortex, he clearly noticed bits of rubble orbiting around Serena... or his own body. With a deep breath, he stepped back before leaping into the forcefield.
It was like submerging himself in water as his body started flying around in a circle. The colour tinted his vision as a burning feeling filled his skin. While he could breath, it wasn't exactly pleasant... being more like a stuff classroom in the middle of summer with all windows closed. Swimming forward, a blue wave washed over him, adding to the burning feeling over his skin.
Grinding his teeth, he continued to try to swim through the vortex. His eyes locked on Serena... or himself. Closing his eyes, he bite down on his inner lip and continued to push forward. With head stroke forward, it felt like the force blew him back.
Sneaking a peak, he realised he became close enough to reach her. With a final stroke, their hands connected, and he pulled her close. Looking directly into the brown eyes, he could've sworn he saw her deep within, but it could've been the simple reflection. Attempting to shake the body, no sort of response came as the swirling powers slowed everyone down within them.
Feeling his eyes burn with tears, he squeezed them shut and rested his forehead against the other. His mind flipping through everything he knew about his own abilities in hopes of overpowering them. Tears escaped through the tightly held eyes with his options disappearing by the second. The image of his girlfriend in the same mind prison which he found himself trapped in back in Silph filling his mind.
A bright flash caused him to stumble back... opening his eyes, he paused.
He found himself stood in a dark... room? Glancing around he found a far-off sort of screen which had Serena in the centre. A sound which he couldn't quite place caused him to turn and find another version of himself... the embodiment of his powers stood with a blue stick in hand.
"Once again you protect the one designed to kill you?" he asked.
"You tried to hurt Serena."
"No... I tried to kill her."
Feeling the blood rush through to his fists and feet, he took off. Clenching his knuckles until they turned white, he pulled one arm back, ready to deliver a blow straight to... his own face. It was bad enough looking at himself when he knew Serena was inside his body.
The bone rush hit his chest. Hooking onto his shirt, he found himself flipped overhead, landing on his back.
"While I need you alive for the use of the vessel," his powered persona uttered, standing over him, "I'm disappointed you couldn't put up more of a fight. At least the psychic made it more interesting. No-longer shall you hide us away. We'll take control of this vessel to carry out father's will."
Chains like before materialised around his wrists, lifting him up into a floating position to view the screen of Serena's face. His darker self-turned away from him with a sinister smile spread over his face.
"And our first act as the force of nature we were born to be?" He started to walk away. "Ending the treachery which, you soiled yourself with association."
"NO!" He struggled to try and pull away from the restraints.
Tears flooded his eyes as he tried to pull free from the restraints. The thought of Serena suffering at the hands of his aura... or rather at his hands.
"You just don't get it, boy, I'm fuelled by emotions. Love, pride, hate, fear," he explained, "whatever you feel just fuels my strength. You can't win."
His vision became blurred as he squeezed his eyes shut. The eyes spewing tears out in rivers. A familiar tingle drew his attention. Shaking his head to try and clear them, he found a red tint surrounding the dark room. He turned to the screen.
The swirling vortex of ESP faded from behind her as her eyes burned with psychic type energy. They started off with pink before morphing into blue and ending in a bright red colour. Her face seemed to expand through the screen as the red colour spread over the room. His hands became free as the chains dissolved into nothing. He landed on one knee, glancing up to see his girlfriend's face looming over the entire dark room.
His eyes widened as his dark aura persona tried to leap at her, but a bright light flashed all around them. Blinking in surprise, he found himself back on the ship. Serena kneeling beside him as her own powers faded with the powers fading from her eyes. The rubble from the commotions littering the area.
He went to say something, but fatigue overcame him... falling forward everything went black as some sort of explosion echoed off in the distance.
Max stumbled out of the door with the swarm of passengers pushing through. Once out onto the open deck, he couldn't help but notice the several men and women dressed in special G-Men uniforms escorting people off the ship. The creeks and cracks indicating the danger of the situation.
He noticed a Charizard picking up passengers and floating them down to one of the further off boats before returning. A weird looking Exeggutor with a much longer neck was lifting people down to the closer boats with rope ladders dangling from railings. Part of him thought of getting in line to try and make his way off but with the thought of his sister and friends still on board took over, he couldn't leave without them. He even got parted from Brock during the commotion so he couldn't be sure where he's right now. Glancing around through the swarms of passengers, he tried to spot one of them.
Walking slowly around, his hand fumbled around his belt, wondering if Ozone or Shade would have better luck since they can float. Something must've hit the boat because it rumbled and caused him to stumble from the sudden movement. He bounced off another person much bigger and stumbled back... off the edge. His mind went blank as he watched the deck of the ship get further and further away but time seemed to slow down.
A familiar voice shouted something and the sound of a Pokéball bursting open stood out amongst the rushing wind... but he couldn't spot either. Something which glew white shot past and futtered over him. Holding onto his body, he ended up flying, barely across the water as the glowing faded.
He landed on some sort of metal surface with a thud. Brock leaned over with a frown, "Max? Are you alright?"
"Erm, I think... what happened?" he muttered, struggling to sit up but the older-brother-figure helped him.
"You fell off the boat when-" he went to explain but he held a hand up.
"Yeah, yeah, I know that." He rubbed the back of his neck. "I meant, what saved me?"
"Vib Vibrava!"
He turned to the side and found a Pokémon which resembled some sort of bug. With a small head which had two yellow antennae, and green bulging eyes with black oval-shaped pupils. His mouth smiled and revealed two large white teeth which were protruding from each side. The body was skinny and yellow, four thin black legs with slender feet stuck out and four green, rhombus-shaped wings with black edges. Similarly-coloured rhombus-shapes covered the end of his tail as he landed on the doctor-in-training's head. Fumbling into his pocket, he pulled out his Pokédex:
Vibrava, The Vibrations Pokémon. The evolved form of Trapinch. To make prey faint, Vibrava generates ultrasonic waves by vigorously making its two wings vibrate. This Pokémon's ultrasonic waves are so powerful, they can bring on headaches in people
"Evolved form of Trapinch..." he muttered, putting it away. "Does that mean you evolved to save me, Vibrava?"
"Brava." He nodded with a bright expression.
"I was asked to assist the medical personal with treating the injuries and got off rather quickly," Brock explained, "I thought you was on one of the other boats and not still onboard. Sorry that we got separated during the commotion."
"It's fine, nothing could stop it." He shook it off. "I'm just glad Vibrava was ready to go."
He buzzed happily and flew over to land on his head. Nuzzling against his cheek, he chuckled at the affectionate dragon.
"Now we just-"
Brock was cut off as a massive roar broke through the area. Erupting over the surface of the water was a tall sea-serpent which he only saw in books and on television battles. Sparkling red scales coloured the back of his body, shimmering under the moon light with a primal roar echoing throughout the ocean surrounding them. His breath stopped in his throat as his eyes went wide. Almost falling over once more as Brock helped guide him into a seat.
"It's a red Gyarados," he muttered, unable to tear his eyes away.
"Yeah," Brock uttered, wiping his hand over his face, "which either means something very good... or things are about to get so much worst."
Pulling his bowls together, he looked up to the breeder and chewed on his inner cheek. His older-brother-figures face was solid as a rock with wrinkles decorating his forehead. His teeth sunk into his bottom lip, which seem to tremble. There were few times he's seen the doctor-in-training get nervous but with each one... it was for good reason. He's heard mutters about a red Gyarados from their other friends during the adventure, but he couldn't be sure what happened in previous encounters or why the sight has filled Brock with worry.
"Have you seen May or the others?" he asked.
"No... not-" He stopped, leaning forward before pointing towards the ship. "I think that's them now."
Looking over to the sinking ship, he noticed none-other than Lance walking down the semi-destroyed staircase. The dragon type specialist appeared to have Ash's body in his arms while both Serena and Misty... or was it still Ash? walking beside him. A group of people dressed in the workers uniforms were beside them but left to join some of the other officers helping get people off the ship. His sister was being carried by the Pokémon next to him.
Squinting to get a better view, he took in the bipedal Pokémon's appearance. Most of the body was covered with dark, yellow-green scales with black skin covering the torso, tail-tip, and thighs. Red talons and claws decorated both hands and feet. Two large tusks stuck out of the upper jaw on side of the mouth, resembling some sort of scythe or axe. These were also black but with red edges. While difficult to make out, the eyes seemed to be average size for the head with a combination of red and black. Ridged plate-like skin travelled all over the head. Due to carrying his sister, it was difficult to see but the arms seemed quite small, three digits and each hand and two elliptical triceps and biceps and circular elbows. He pulled out his Pokédex to scan the new Pokémon:
Haxorus, The Axe Jaw Pokémon. The final evolved form of Axew. While usually kind-hearted, it can be terrifying if angered. Tusks that can slice through steel beams are how Haxorus deals with its adversaries. In some regions they are common companions to draconid people due to Axew being common starters
Reaching the edge, the Charizard picked Ash up off Lance and turned. Serena seemed to climb onto the back, and he took off. Soaring over the ocean, he landed on the deck of their boat. Brock ran over to help with some officers, getting a stretched to lie the raven-haired boy down. Serena slid off the back, standing back as they started examining him. He cautiously made his way over, standing next to the honey-blonde companion.
"Hey... are you-"
"It's me, Max," she muttered, "Serena. We ended up switching back."
"What happened to Ash?" he asked. Looking up, he saw a tear trickle down her cheek.
"...I did," she whispered.
Turning around, she shot off across the boat, disappearing through a door. He thought about going after her but couldn't bring himself too. What would he say or do? She's always been the comforting one. Talking to us whenever something was up. How could he possibly help her now?
Glancing back over the ship, he noticed the Charizard flying back with the Gyarados getting closer. Misty rode on the back of the former as he carried his sister, while Lance rode atop of the latter. Soon they reached the boat and just like with Ash, the fire flying type laid his sister down. He wanted to push his way through to her side, fighting the tears stinging his eyes... but couldn't. He knew those people could help her more than he could.
Wiping his eyes free and helping fix his vision, he turned to see Misty and Lance conversing. Swallowing hard at the sight of the elite four member, he tightened his fist and took a deep breath. Forcing each foot forward, he soon found himself stood next to the two.
"E-excuse me, Lance?" he stuttered slightly.
"Yes?" he asked, turned to look down at him.
"What's up, Max?" Misty asked.
"What's wrong with May?" he asked with a quiver in his voice.
"She banged her head when the explosion went off," Misty muttered, "we were restrained by some webbing, but she lost consciousness."
"My officers are fully trained in first aid, and we'll have medical teams on standby at port," he added, "your sister will be fine but let them do their work."
Closing his eyes, he nodded. Turning back, he watched them wheel both Ash and May off into the inner part of the boats as Lance moved to the head. His two duel water types began leading the way as the boats followed suit. Turning back, he noticed the ship mostly submerged by now as they travelled away.
"What's wrong, Lance?" he heard Misty ask.
"I got hurt in attempting to apprehend the fugitive," he dismissed, "no big deal. Just some bruised ribs."
"No big deal?" she repeated, "J isn't known for pulling her punches. They could be broken or-"
"I'll get checked out when we reach land. For now, we'll be taking everyone to the nearest populated location, Maisie Island." Lance informed. "And your friends are in worst shape. I would worry more about them... I've taken worst hits before and will be fine."
Serena sighed as she stood outside of the hospital room where Ash rested. Staring through the window, she found him lying on the bed with a doctor checking over him. Biting down on her lower lip, she frowned and closed her eyes. She couldn't be sure how long she waited but the door opened, and she looked to see the doctor stood in front of her with a clipboard in hand, which he slotted into the door holder.
"How is he?" she asked.
"Stable," he replied, "we just need to wait until he wakes up. He must've hit his head pretty hard for the concussion, but I couldn't find the impact mark so it's a theory on my part. Either way, we will want to keep him here for observations for the next day, possibly longer."
She nodded in understanding, moving to the side to let him exit the room completely, "can I... stay with him?"
"Of course." The doctor smiled. "He'd probably appreciate seeing you more than me when he wakes up."
Seeing the man walk away, she took a deep breath and turned back to the room. The door had closed, and she walked up to it. Lightly holding the handle, she thought about pushing her way in but couldn't. It was like her body froze as she flashed back to the incident on the boat.
Serena was in the mind, trying to escape the dark aura persona when another figure of Ash appeared. A bright light flashed, and she found herself back in her own body, holding onto Ash's body with the psychic powers swirling around them. Her mind just focused on the pending battle within her boyfriend and the memory of Silph company. Not wanting him to lose control and go through that again, she directed her powers into his head.
She couldn't be sure of what happened in his mind as her powers lowered both of them down to the floor. He muttered her name as the powers faded from her fingertips. His eyes fluttered open, and he muttered her name, but it was barely audible before falling forward.
Feeling the tears sting her eyes once more, she considered what Red said after the switch. How her powers were invented as a way to combat aura users and now she's put her boyfriend into a coma. In the moment, she thought she was saving him but-
"It's going that well, huh?"
She opened her eyes and wiped them on her arms to see Misty leaning against the wall, her hands resting in her pockets. She offered a small smile with prominent lines between her brows. Before she could question it, the water type specialist wrapped her up in a hug. Letting her tears go, she sobbed onto the older girl's shoulder, wrapping her own arms around her. Misty's hand rubbing her back in a soothing manner.
"It's all gonna be alright," she whispered, "May's already up and about. She woke up on the boat and Max is sticking by her side. He's a good kid. But she's taking the loss of Manaphy hard. It's like watching Ash and Gyarados all over again. It's just a matter of time until old Ash wakes up too."
"Where's Brock?" she muttered.
"He's helping as an intern," she whispered, "since he helped on the boat when most knowledge was limited. He was in the best situation to explain to the doc's here what everyone's been through. I'm sure we'll see him sooner or later."
"How are you so calm?" she asked.
"I guess... ever since I met you guys, I've been in some pretty exciting adventures," she explained, letting the embrace end, "and across all of them, I realised that the best outcomes come from a calm persona and clear mind."
"But we-"
"Look at me, Serena." Misty's hands landed on her shoulders, forcing her to look the Cerulean gym leader in the eye. "Nothing we did helped J complete her mission today. We tried to stop her, and she was prepared for the resistance. That's not on us. Bad stuff happened but we can't blame ourselves for it."
"That's easy for you to say," she muttered with a frown.
"Because it's the truth." A beeping noise went off in her pocket and she pulled out some sort of phone device. Glancing at the screen, she frowned before turning back to face her. "Sorry but I gotta go for now. I'll come and find you later, maybe boy wonder would've woken up by then."
Watching the orange-haired girl sprint down the corridor, it didn't take long for her to disappear from sight. With a frown, she turned back to the room and a low sigh escaped her lips. Not wanting any further interruptions, she forced herself to enter the room. A strong scent of some sort of antibacterial hit her senses as she slumped over to the seats by his bed side. The bright ceiling lights bouncing off the shimmering clear surfaces.
He laid motionless in the hospital bed with a night gown on. His regular clothes were piled up on one of the side chairs. A constant beeping noise came from one of the machines hooked up to him which seemed to be regulating his vitals. His collection of Pokéballs rested on top of his clothes.
Realising she still had his team and those were her own Pokéballs, she manually switched them back, leaving his team to rest on top of his neatly stacked clothes. Taking one of the seats, she pulled it closer to his bed and she took a second to admire how peaceful he seemed to be, light breaths only shown by his chest raising and lowering in rhythm. Her bottom lip trembled as her tears escaped once more. She planted her head down onto the side of the mattress.
A slight shuffle caused her to look up and see him with opened eyes. A blank stare up to the ceiling behind his chocolate brown eyes. She relaxed sightly as his head moved slightly. Standing up, her reflection appeared in his shimmering eyes. Turning to face her, a soft smile rested over his lips. Moving his arms to his side, he attempted to push himself up.
"N-no Ash!" she panicked, putting her hands up for a stop gesture. "You need to rest and not push yourself too far! Please!"
"Hehe, i-it's fine, Serena," he muttered in a low voice, "I can sit up."
"Right..." She bite down on her lip.
She couldn't help but think that she put him here. His concussion and subsequent coma was from a direct result of her flooding his head with ESP. She might've been able to stop the aura from taking over but he's held it off on his own multiple times. Even with her psychic powers available, she couldn't stop it until they switched back. If she trusted him to take control himself then-
"Babe."
"Huh?" She looked up to his face.
His gaze was directed downward, and she instinctively reached out to hold his hand with her's. His eyes darted up for a brief moment with tears threatening to break free. Looking back down, both his forehead and nose wrinkled with slow, controlled breaths.
"I-I'm so sorry-"
"What are you sorry for?" she asked, taken aback.
"Because I let you down... I know how dangerous aura can be and how it fuels off emotion," he replied, "I should've known how confronting J would've spiked your emotions... how couldn't it? And the danger that would've put you in. I left you alone to deal with it all on your own."
"We decided at the time how to split up," she replied, her own tears running down her cheek, "i-it's me who should be apologising!"
"What for?" he blinked.
"I..." Her voice quivered as she sat back down, unable to keep her tears under control. Clutching his bed sheets tightly, she nuzzled her head into them. She felt a hand hit her back and he gently rubbed, causing her to slowly look up to him. "H-how can you be so... calm?!"
"Because we're both safe," he whispered, "we're safe and I genuinely don't know what your blaming yourself for."
"You don't remember," she muttered, "I messed up your memories so bad that-"
"Remember what?" he asked, "I remember fighting to get up to you... then we were in my head and then... everything's a bit fuzzy to be honest... then I woke up here."
"I... flooded your mind with ESP. I drowned the aura away and..." She took a deep breath. "And I put you into a coma."
"So that's what happened..." he muttered, "thank you."
"Don't thank me," she seethed standing up, "you wouldn't be here right now if I didn't-"
"Exactly, I remember exactly now," he replied, "the aura fuelled off both yours and my emotions. I wasn't strong enough to overcome it like before. It was going to go on a rampage... World-wide... Taking out whoever it deemed a threat as judge, jury, and executioner. If you didn't stop me then, anyone could've been hurt. So, you saved us all."
"But-"
"Look Serena, I know it wasn't a good situation," he replied, "you can't just blame yourself because of the outcome."
"But that's what you did." She crossed her arms, pouting.
"Hehehe, maybe it is..." he chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "How about we agree to just take it as is. Neither of us are to blame?"
"And I used my ESP when warned not to!" She burst out.
"You was scared and it was instincual," he replied, "it's like telling someone off for pulling their hand off a burning stove."
"Alright," she smiled, shuffling over to take a seat on the bed next to him.
His hand gently touched her chin, directing her head towards his. Smiling, she closed her eyes and just let the familiar tingle of their lips connecting. She hummed slightly into his embrace but he pulled back quicker than she would've liked.
"I missed doing that during... the switch," she muttered.
Her thought went back to the previous day before the dire situation and she found her memories weren't what she thought. Everything was from her own point of view and while she can remember walking in on Ash shaving... or rather her shaving. She couldn't remember doing it. Even the times they weren't together during the day, she could only remember what would've been Ash's point of view. Instantly thinking of the most embarrassing situation, she relaxed realising if she remembered this side of the day then Ash would only remember the other point of view. While certain conclusions she can remember coming too, like feeling sorry for complaining when he'd sit open leg, the actual thing why she couldn't.
She also felt her heartbeat faster as she realised during the compromising situations, he found himself in, he really did try to not go overboard. He didn't try to fix adjust her bra or even... look... when forced to use the restroom. Part of her thought she'd have the same restraint but couldn't guarantee it even if she couldn't remember those memories exactly. Her cheeks burned as she realised that her ESP allowed her to scower his thoughts for the memories, should she-
"Serena?" his voice drew her back to the hospital room. "You zoned out for a minute. Everything okay?"
"Yeah... just thinking about the..."
"I'm just glad we're back to normal," he muttered, "but... why did you shave my arms and legs? Wait... I can remember the thought process, and, in the memory, it seemed like a good idea but-"
"I think I was just nervous," she whispered, running a hand along his arm, "but I do like it... being able to see more. I hope you decide to keep it."
Glancing back up to his face, she inwardly smirked seeing him blush heavily as she shuffled slightly to move into a side hug. Running her hand across his chest, she felt his heartbeat rapidly fast as his breathing became uneven. Giggling at his reaction, she leaned up to peck his cheek.
"I guess there is worst stuff which could've been done," he muttered, cupping her cheek with his hand.
Pulling her closer, they connected their lips once more. She shuffled her position to kneel over his body and cup his cheeks as he held onto her waist. She only got so deep into the show of affection before resting her forehead against his.
"By the way," she whispered, "while you were out Lance came to take a witness statement. He said he'll want to take yours too when you wake up."
"Lance?" He flicked an eyebrow up. His eyes widened, "Gyarados?!"
She barely had chance to move as he skimmed underneath. While slightly upset their reconciliation was over, she completely understood why. Had it been the chance to see Furret again, she'd be just as excited. Seeing him stand up, he stumbled forward.
"Slow down, you haven't long woken up and from the sounds of it, he's not going anywhere." She placed a hand on his shoulder whilst holding his own, offering support. "And besides... you're in a hospital gown... maybe you should change into your normal clothes if you wanna go exploring."
He gave a small nod, and she left the room for some privacy. Resting against the wall outside the room, she couldn't stop the smile overtaking her face.
Lance stood with his arms crossed, the new cast on his lower arm and hand slightly weighing it down. His eyes glanced over the illuminated screens which had sets of x-rays on display. He swiftly studied them before focusing upon the professional sat by the computer against the wall.
"You've got four broken ribs and all bruised to some degree. Along with a hairline fracture in your wrist," the doctor informed, "which means you need to take it easy. Light duties and no field work. I'll bandage your ribs up to help support during healing then your free to go."
He gritted his teeth together as he held both arms up. With short sharp breaths passing through his clenched jaw. The doctor wrapped a bandage around his heavily black and blue chest. Mentally counting whilst the procedure went on, it didn't seem to take too long to finish. Slipping his shirt back on, he bid the doctor goodbye. Exiting the office, he made his way through the corridors, following the signs to the exit.
Meeting one of his sergeants in the lobby, they passed him a preliminary report from the statements already taken. His eyes fluttered over, and each word further filled him with dread. Sighing heavily, he marched out of the building, leaving his Sargent to return to their duties.
As he made it outside, he dialled his superintendent number. Holding the screen up to his face, it took little over half a minute until the image of the wrinkled elderly man appeared. The same stoic expression which he had become accustomed to over the years, "sir."
"Inspector... care to explain what the hell is going on over there?" he asked. "Not on does our highest ranked catch from either terrorist organisation end up dead within our detention facility but a ship is attacked and despite my undercover and tactical leader on the scene, I have to find out about it through news."
"Sir." he paused. "It's still an ongoing event and I haven't had the time-"
"Well, you've got the time now," he replied, "the media are making out it was aqua retaliation due to Shelly's fatal fall."
"It wasn't Aqua," he corrected, "it was J. She was in charge of this whole situation."
"J?" He straightened up. "You're sure?"
"I faced her in hand-to-hand combat when attempting to apprehend her on the ship," he replied, "I know her well enough, sir."
"Then you know what she was trained to be," he replied, "how are you alive? No one faces the likes of J one-on-one and lives."
"Thank for the vote of confidence," he muttered.
"And why do the news think it was aqua?" he asked.
"She had her henchmen dressed up as aqua grunts. I think they are involved somehow but I don't know exactly how yet," he replied, "and part of her plan was to draw me out into a fight. She wanted to make it clear whose superior and gave me a message to pass on."
"Which is?" he asked.
"The next officer we put in her way, she'll kill and discard of somewhere we'll never find them," he replied, "I know I don't know the ins and outs of the man-hunter programme, sir, but even the rumours seemed... inhumane. And the results of J are-"
"I know and it's why it was discontinued." He cut him off. "Make sure the J task-force are alerted to this new development. Now tell me about what else she was after on the ship."
"It's hard to say for sure," he replied, "we've got a list of thirty-odd Pokémon her henchmen made off with. Four people are still unaccounted for from the ship, but none seemed to be specifically targeted. Three crew members and one passenger. We can only assume they went down with the ship, and I've already got officers making arrangements to inform their families."
"Good," he muttered.
"We're also taking more witness statements currently so the true target might get revealed soon, along with the connection to aqua," he replied, "and I should inform you. I've been treated for three broken ribs and bruising given during the attempted arrest."
"You're lucky that's all J did," he replied, "but as protocol, I need to remove you from the field until your greenlit. I'll approve your continued lead upon the alpha-omega operation, but you need to stay on the side-lines. If you can't then I'll arrange a replacement immediately."
"No, it's fine." He sighed. "I can stick to that."
"Good," he replied, "just clean this mess up and bring in both groups without any more hiccups, inspector."
Seeing the image of his boss fade, he dropped his arms to the side. Relaxing his posture, he slowly walked out of the hospital and onto the beach just outside of the building. With a deep breath, the fresh ocean air filled his lungs and helped ease the pain in both his chest and wrist. While far from the worst injuries he's sustained on duty, he knew had she wished too, J wouldn't have allowed him to stand her right now.
Taking out his Pokéballs, the Pokémon materialised either on the beach or water. Glancing around them all, he relaxed slightly, happy to just have a minute for themselves. While a certain member was missing from the squad, Dragonite was still with nurse Joy, and he'd be sure to check on him later.
"Lance?"
He turned to see Red's son walking down the beach with the help of the blonde female who accompanies him. Considering how much he owes the man; he was sure he'd take the boy's statement himself, but he hadn't heard of his awakening yet. Walking across the beach, he stopped them before getting close to the water. His mouth went dry as he thought about the particular Pokémon currently enjoying a night-time swim in the salt water.
"When did you wake up?" he asked.
"Just a few minutes ago." He smiled. "When we heard the roars outside, we figured you had-"
"Has the doctor been informed of your developments?" he asked, to which the boy shook his head. "We should inform him. A concussion is nothing to take lightly-"
"I'm fine and we will," he replied, "but I was hoping to see Gyarados. I remember seeing him briefly on the ship and-"
"I don't think this is the right time, Ash." He firmly informed, crossing his arms. "Let's get you back inside."
The boy however, stumbled as he made a b-line for the water. He went to try and stop him further, but the boy called out to the water flying type. Covering him with his body, the atrocious Pokémon lept out of the water and landed nearby with massive roar. Grimacing from the wind which blew out from around them. He slowly moved, still covering the boy as he turned to face the sea-serpent.
His Haxorus, Charizard and Exeggutor moved into a defensive position. While the nostrils were dilated, inflating with each anger filled breath with his eyes bulging, threating to pop out of his head. His fangs on full display as he loomed over them.
Snatching the device off his belt, he spun and recalled the water flying type. Sticking a small device on top, it prevent it reopening for the time being. He carefully turned back to see the son of one of his oldest friends. His head was slightly tilted to the side with a wrinkled nose. His eyes narrowed and he seemed to swallow excessively. Looking into his eyes, he saw him clearly try to process what just happened.
"I tried to warn you," he muttered, kneeling down so they were at eye level.
"B-but I thought you said he was getting better?!" he stuttered, tears leaking down his cheek.
"He is... but I can't return him to you," he sighed, placing a hand on the boy's shoulder. "I've spoken to a trauma expert and while he's made great progress over the last year, his trauma is entwined with yourself. Not only were you present at the inciting incident, but his memories were wiped, most of which involve yourself. He loved you very much and you can't just wipe away that sort of emotion so when he feelings the strong emotions by seeing or hearing you without the reference to why, that love turns into the closest other emotion... combined with his species natural atonement to anger and-"
"So, Ash will never be able to have Gyarados back?" Serena asked.
"I'm afraid not," he replied, "I was hopeful the experts could reverse it in some way but even a team of specialist Alakazam's couldn't return his mind to what it once was. And given how triggered he becomes around reminders; it would be detrimental to both Gyarados' development but your own safety."
"What's gonna happen?" Ash muttered.
"My next step is handing him over to another trainer... someone who could further help him get under control and expand upon his development," he explained, "there's a few options I'm looking at. All water type specialists who could help him in ways I never could. He'll live a full and fulfilling life."
His bottom lip trembled before being stopped by his teeth sinking into it. A fresh wave of tears streamed out and he turned around with Serena embracing him in a hug. Turning around, he swiftly recalled his remaining Pokémon, even approaching the water to get Kingdra as well. On his return, he saw the boy looking stronger with dried eyes, even if the tears still stained his cheeks. Swallowing hard, he felt horrible about the entire situation with Gyarados.
"I'm sorry that you had to learn of it this way, maybe one day... he'll be in a place where you can interact, but he'll never be the Pokémon he was before the lake," he explained, "come on, I'll escort you back to your hospital room. While I'm at it, you can tell me about the ship if you wouldn't mind."
"Right..." He sighed, with them setting back over the beach. "There wasn't much to say. We heard the captain make his announcement then the sounds outside drew us to see some guys breaking into the rooms. We fought back with our Pokémon and went to find our friends in the lobby. Everyone was there and Misty mentioned how they were J. Given our previous encounters we decided to take the fight to her. Serena, Misty, and May went up while I went down to the generator. Well... Manaphy used heart swap, so it was me in Serena's body and-"
"Manaphy?" he asked. His mind flashing back to a book he researched on the legends of Hoenn shortly before coming to the region. The image of the pure water type riding on top of the creator of the oceans filled his mind. "You're sure it was a Manaphy?"
"Yeah." Serena nodded. "He was an egg which May hatched... they ended up taking him too. I think he was the target all along given how she spoke."
"Sorry kids but I gotta go," he muttered as they reached the entrance to the hospital. "I'll be back later but this is really important."
Without waiting for a response, he took off. Sprinting through the halls of the hospital, he did his best to put the constant pain in his body out of mind. It didn't take him long to find the orange haired undercover agent whose been assisting with the alpha operation. She sat on a bench with her Azumarill.
"Misty." He panted slightly, not letting his pain control his voice or actions. "Why didn't you tell me about your friend and Manaphy?"
"I put it in my written report for you," she replied, "I would've thought you'd have read it or got it from May."
"One of my officer's took her statement." He shook his head. "But this answers the question of a connection between aqua and J. We can only assume she's already delivered the prince of the sea and with him, Aqua will have another way to locate the creator of oceans."
"What do you mean?" she asked. "Kyogre is there end game. We've known this for months and they were going to use the fake data from the weather institute to track them. Given that likely hit a dead-end, they went with plan b. Manaphy was created to keep the beings of the seas under control, and to work in tandem with Kyogre. If he is in danger, then it's only a matter of time until the beast shows up to free him."
"We need to get to them and free Manaphy then-" She jumped out of her seat.
"Slow down, we don't have the resources or manpower currently to handle that sort of operation," he replied, "I'm going to put the plans in place and prep for the worst case, but I need to ask you to stay in Hoenn. Given the goal posts have now moved, I might need to send you back in."
"Of course." She smiled. "Anything to get this mess over with. And I think going back in would put me in the best spot to save Manaphy."
Turning around, he made his leave to start preparations for the upcoming operations. He'll also need to contact Brodie on the magma side and learn of any further developments. While he knows there's never a perfect operation... he would struggle to somehow make this one worst in this moment.
She tapped her finger on the side panel of her arm. The large window showing the open-water beneath them. A brief glance to the side showed her two science agents stood with the crystal which still held the target in place. With a glance back, she noticed the large freighter ship coming up within view.
It didn't take long for them to end up hovering next to the ship. Her chair lowered down into the loading bay, and she stood up. Her Salamence and Aegislash stood either side of the scientists, who maintained their prize. The small water type continued to struggle within the bubble of water, but the pull of the crystal wouldn't allow an escape. Walking past them, the door opened, creating a ramp down onto the ship. Leading the way, the team brought the prize with her two Pokémon either side. Glancing around, none of the aqua members seemed brave enough to look her in the eye, each adverting their gaze.
As they approached the centre of the ship, she noticed the leading sobbing onto the shoulder of the muscular man she nearly killed at their last encounter, she rolled her eyes, waiting for the scientists to stop with the prize by her side, "bad time?"
"His lass has just died." The muscular man scoffed. "Can't you show a little respect?"
"I could or I could do the job you paid for." She rolled her eyes. "If you want me to feel then I wouldn't be delivering Manaphy right now."
"You got it?" the leader's voice cracked as he turned. His eyes raw red with tear stains down his cheeks.
"Just as agreed," she replied, "and the rest of our payment?"
Two aqua grunts carried out another chest of gold coins. Using her goggles like before, she analysed that the right amount of money. With a slight tilt of her head, the ghost steel type approached and picked it up with the stach-arms. Carrying it back towards the ship, the two scientists approached and handed over the control panel for the crystal, with the female giving a quick tutorial on how to operate it.
"This is greatly appreciated, lassie." Archie nodded. "The coordinates Serena retrieved for us have been less then fruitful so-"
"That's not a common name," she muttered, "tell me, do you have an image of this... Serena?"
"Yeah," Matt muttered, pulling out his phone. He loaded up a photo of their crew back at the mainland base. Zooming in, she noticed the focus on an orange haired individual. Her lips crept up into a smile as she studied the girl's face, "what's wrong?"
"Consider this a freebie, in case you ever acquire my services again," she replied, "her name is certainly not Serena... and I just found out how the G-Men were keeping track of your actions. Take it from me, anything she's seen of your operation would now be in the hands of Lance and his toy soldiers."
"You can't seriously expect us to believe you against our loyal-" Matt got cut off.
"Where is the sea-rat?" Archie asked.
"She's off, I told her to take a little break whilst our final preparations took place," Matt replied, "you can't be thinking she betrayed us?"
"Just get her back on board now," he replied, "if she did then she's responsible for Shelly's fate."
"It really doesn't bother me if you believe it or not," she interjected, "but seeing as our business is concluded-"
"We could use the extra help in the upcoming war," Archie mentioned.
"You want my assistance in taking down both the G-Men & Magma?" she asked, "easily done... but it'll cost ya."
"We can't afford another bounty like this one," the muscular mentioned, "and were trying to better the planet here. Don't you have any empathy?"
"No." She shook her head. "But if you can't afford that job then I'll be taking my leave. Time is money."
Turning back, she lead the way with her scientists quickly running ahead back to the ship. It didn't take too long for them to stand in the loading bay as the door shut once more. As the aircraft began moving once more, she held her arm up to her mouth, "set course for the next region. We've exhausted resources in this region for now and with the political climate about to burst, our operations will cost more to run in the coming months."
Standing still as the ship took off, she quickly accustomed herself to the momentum before approaching the two ex-rocket scientists. "Your next assignment, I need another crystal to use on psychics. Too many times have those kids tried to interrupt my operations. And this one won't be used for containment."
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...