Author's Note:
Here it is, the resolution to the aqua & magma arc. Another part of what I wanted to change from the Team Rocket arc in Johto was consequences. With region wide disasters, it'll make sense we see more damage done and other things affected in the process. With the main villain arc for Hoenn over, we'll see the departure of characters involved with it, like Misty, Lance, and the team admins. This has been a fun arc, and I hope ya'll like it just as much. Oh, and we get a nice little treat at the end. Since we got one of the elite four present, might as well let him get some use. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter Seventy-Four: Aqua & Magma - Clear Skies
Serena frowned as she looked out of the car window. Her eyes glued on the top of the volcano with smoke fuming out and orange blobs of lava spitting out, with the car being frown with each shake of the earth. A pool of dread filled the bottom of her stomach as tears welled in her eyes.
Squeezing her eyes shut, the image of the purple haired girl filled her sight. She grew older and started a family or grew into a scientist in her own right.
A loud roar echoed, causing her to open her eyes once more. Glancing up to the sky, some sort of greenish shadow over the blazing sun rocketed high above them. Her eyes felt drawn to the unknown assailant. As more roars sounded, she turned to see the smoke slowing from the volcano as the spitting lava settled down the side of the large mountain. After nearly a minute, she realised the earthquakes stopped as well.
An awkward silence filled the car as they continued down the mountainous road. Her eyes occasionally glancing out to the outside world.
The car pulled up to a stop and she slowly grabbed the handle. Stepping out of her vehicle, she glanced around and noticed several army-camo designed tents filling up the area. Police cars, jeeps and riot trucks drove in and out as many different officers, some dressed in the traditional police uniform, some in the more military G-Men gear and the red rangers uniforms. With numerous different species surrounding them. A general ruckus rumbled around them.
She walked around from the camp and stumbled slightly as she reached a tree. Her legs wobbled beneath her as her head hung low. Heaving as the world beneath her spun, she squeezed her eyes shut and turned to lean against the trunk. Sliding down, she ended up sitting at the base.
Blinking. Her Absol materialised in front of her. Staring with a stoic expression as she curled her knees up to rest her head on. With a low sigh, she used her powers once more to connect minds with the pure dark type, taking the extra step to pierce his natural defence.
"How are you holding up?" he asked.
"Did you know?" she asked, a slight crack in her voice.
"Well until it happens no future is set," he explained, "I simply see possibilities and act in a worse-"
"Cut the Tauros-" She took a deep breath to calm herself. "Did you know?"
"I knew there were three possible outcomes for today. Firstly, we never came here. Left to her own devices she would've activated the eruption much sooner and the small town known as Fallarbor would've perished. While Rayquaza would've intervened, not before the emergence of Groundon and ninety percent of life on Hoenn's mainland would be gone," he explained, "or there was option two. We distract long enough for the dragon to emerge. No Groundon and both the eruption and earthquakes are kept to a minimum. This is the one I tried and succeeded in making our path."
"What was the third option?" she asked, staring directly into his eyes.
"The third option has us show up and work to prevent her actions like we did." He sighed. "But you try to control her head. Overwhelm her brain to take control off her very being. A dangerous technique which psychics are capable off. With her resistance, you would've been in a stalemate, but she had already moved enough fuel to consume you both in the blast. Not only would she have died but you would've as well."
"What if I-"
"There was no way around it. She devoted herself to the cause of Magma and paid the price." He cut her off. "I know you didn't like the outcome but sometimes the only choices you have are bad ones... but you still have to choose. And I picked the one where the most people make it out, I'm not about to apologise for that."
"But you could've told me!" She raised her voice. "If I knew then-"
"If you knew, you would not be here now." He growled. "You would've tried to prove me wrong. Would've tried anything to save her, and thus the third option would've been chosen... then the events which your meant to intervene in the future... would go very differently."
"You don't get to pick which life has more importance." She stared him down.
"Perhaps not... but just think, how many more Courtney's would be lost in the future if you're not there to save them?" he asked. Her mouth dropped slightly, and she leaned back against the tree. Unable to process the argument any further, she pulled out his Pokéball and recalled the dark type.
As she sat, looking out opposite the G-Men base, she noticed an old van with an antenna on top pull to the barrier. Two people jumped out, one being a man in his early twenties with a backwards cap and large video-camera in his arms. While the other seemed to be an older women with medium length brown hair and dressed in a casual turquoise sleeveless blouse and white trousers. She had some sort of microphone as the guy pointed the camera towards her.
"This is Gabby Mari from Hoenn Live and we're reporting live from outside the G-Men Alpha-Omega base which has been the centre investigation point for the criminal cases against the teams of Aqua and Magma!" the women explained, "and the Hoenn region is currently under threat from a series of natural disasters. Mount Chimney has erupted, and earthquakes have been devastating the mainland. Dozens of fatalities have already been recorded from around the mainland with places like Lilycove and Slateport hit the worst."
"There is also an ongoing hurricane over the surrounding islands. People from Sootopolis and Mossdeep haven't been able to keep contact as hundreds more injured fall upon the list of damage. We can only wonder what has caused this sort of devastation as the combined forces of police, G-Men and rangers work around the clock to provide support to those who need it most!"
"We're getting word that several organisations have already halted competitions such as the league, showcase and contest circuits! With all arenas and gyms being used as central support centres for the locals. Reports of the leaders rallying the survivors to help those trapped under the collapsed buildings!"
Her attention was drawn to Brock as he stood over her. Offering a hand down, he silently pulled her up to her feet and embraced her into a hug. She let her tears escape as she sobbed into his shoulder. His comforting brotherly hug helped as he whispered words of comfort into her ear. She couldn't be sure how long they stayed in that sort of position but after a while her tears subsided, and she slowly pulled back from his hug.
"I know this isn't what we wanted but Lance wants to speak with us," he muttered.
Giving a small nod, she let the doctor-in-training lead her into the base grounds and through the squads of different officer fractions. Her eyes glanced around as she noticed numerous medical vehicles pulling up and wheeling different people of all different sorts into the medical tents. Covered in cuts, bruises with different levels of urgency. Her heart pumped harder with the sight of each victim of magma's actions.
Her attention turned towards the red-haired man with his Dragonite and the Flygon they originally arrived on flew over. The man who drove them over, Brodie, stood beside him before his Ditto jumped down, transforming into a Flygon as well. Climbing onto his back, they took off into the sky.
"Where are they going?" she wondered.
"To lead the search and rescue in Rustboro." Lance informed. He turned to them with a scowl and crossed arms. "Now want to explain what happened? Every time we've got something down on either aqua or magma, you and your friends have been found in the thick of it."
"We were trying to help," Brock declared.
"That maybe but look at the situation we're in now," he replied, "if you know anything which might help then you need to tell me now."
"It's Groundon causing the mainland issues. He's resting under mount chimney and Courtney caused an explosion to wake him. They tried to do it before on top of mount chimney, but we were able to stop them. The eruption and earthquakes are a direct result of his awakening." She blurted out. "And as for the hurricane, its Kyogre. Since Groundon can sense their presence, that's why he won't stop this time. Ash is currently trying to location Rayquaza."
"Of course." He pinched the bridge of his nose and turned to the side. Letting out a low sigh. "Look, I need to head off to Slateport. Preparing for the hand over arrests from Steven. Flygon here, I assume you already know them?"
"She's one of Zinnia's Pokémon," Brock explained.
"Well... she seems happy to return you back to your friends." He sighed. "Just... try to keep out of trouble now."
The dragon type specialist turned and climbed onto the back of his orange dragon. Kicking off the ground, they took off into the sky. Glancing over to the doctor-in-training, they nodded and walked over to ground dragon type. Climbing onto her back, they took off into the sky.
Max smiled as he sat in the cabin from earlier. Shade and Ozone were floating around the room, playing a game of tag. While Geico sat in his lap. The young boy had a book out and was reading it as he occasionally glanced over to the others in the room.
"I wonder when Serena, Brock and Ash will get back." He wondered aloud, causing his grass type to glance up to him.
"Tree?" Geico tilted his head to the side.
Mentally shrugging, he figured his Pokémon knew about as much as he did given the circumstances. Glancing to the window, he noticed the calm blue sky, no longer surrounded by rain clouds. Relaxing back against the beds headboard, he re-found the part of the page where he left off.
"Max." He looked up from his book. As he took in the room once more, he noticed all three of his Pokémon looking at him with confused expressions. "Max!"
"J-Jirachi?" He muttered, placing the book down and shuffling to the edge of the bed. His grass starter moved and crawled around to perch on his shoulder.
"Tree?" he added, with a questioning undertone.
"I-I thought I heard-" He shook his head and slouched slightly, unable to form proper words. "Never mind. Let's-"
"Max!" A semi-transparent image of the wish maker appeared, floating in front of him. "Hiya Max!"
"What're you doing here?" he asked.
"I'm not," he replied, "it's a cool new trick the twins have taught me. They call it sight sharing but I prefer austral projection."
"The twins?" he asked. "Projection?"
"It's the next step from setting up a mental link," he explained, "but scratch that. I've got a really important message!"
"What is it?" he asked.
"It's for the two chosen's," he replied, "Ash and Serena. I need to tell them that it's starting."
"What's starting?" he asked.
"I'm not one-hundred-percent sure myself but it sounds bad." He shrugged. "Anyway, mister long green and scary is planning a strategy meeting. And they should be present."
"Okay when is it?" he asked, "where is it?"
"That's the thing, we need to wait for the space-mon and they've not RSVP-ed yet," he explained, "so just let them know that at some point we're gonna have a get together and your all invited. I look forward to meeting with you again."
As the astral projection faded into thin air, he had a stupidly wide grin take over his face. Jumping too his feet with a loud thud, his two floating Pokémon lowered down to his height, giving him long stares. Chuckling nervously, he kinda guessed Jirachi only showed to himself and not his team.
Grabbing his Pokéballs, he reassured and recalled the trio before turning on a heel. Bolting out of the wooden door, he shot down the corridor towards the room where he knew his sister was. The wind rushed past him, and he seemed to reach his destination in less than a minute.
"May!" He knocked on the door. "May it's Max! Come on, I know you're in there! I've got something to tell you!"
He reached for the handle and tried to twist it to enter the room. As he pushed the wooden door, he realised the lock was on. Sighing, his hand loosely dropped from the nob. Squeezing his eyes shut, his arm fell down beside his side.
"Please May." His continued in a quieter tone. "I really need to talk with you. I know what you're going through. Remember Jirachi-"
"Leave me alone!"
His mouth dropped at the sound of his sister's voice. A sombre quiver under her loud caused his own lip to tremble. He couldn't recall a single time when she just broke down. She's always been stronger and able to brush off anything. His eyes slammed shut as tears threatened to escape.
"Fine then!" He cried, with his own voice cracking. "Be that way! See if I care!"
Turning on his heel, he stomped down the corridor, heading back towards the deck. The staircase was in sight as the tears started welling-up in his eyes. He paused and wiped them on his sleeve. Leaving a slight fog patch over his glasses.
"Whoa, slow down Max," Misty spoke as she reached his side.
"Why should I?" he asked with a humph, crossing his arms in defiance.
"May just needs time to think and work stuff out herself." Misty crouched down to his level. Placing a hand on his shoulder. "And you just need to be ready to support her whenever she's ready to talk."
"Huh?" He blinked.
"It's how it is being a little sibling." She smiled sweetly. "You see, I've got three older sisters back in Kanto and they all act like they know everything about everything. When it comes to fashion and modelling, they might but as for the real world... sometimes I just wish they'd admit I know what I'm talking about."
"Exactly." He nodded. "It's horrible being the younger brother or sister."
"But as much trouble as my sisters are, I can't imagine losing them." She placed a hand over her heart, glancing up to the sky. "Even when we we're talking, just before I met Ash and Serena... I just really wanted us to get on. They had no interest in the gym but wouldn't let me take it over. I still cared for them."
"Really?" he asked.
"Part of my motivation to fill that role was just to show them I'm good at something... something they aren't." She giggled slightly. "Because deep down, I still love them... I bet you feel the same."
"Erm..." He glanced down to his feet, kicking the wooden floorboards
"Remember back on the freighter? As soon as she saw it was safe, her priority was getting you off," Misty explained, "and I know every time I get sick or something happens to me, I know I can count on my sisters to try just as hard to help me out. It's not always easy and I do lose patience with them but it's the good moments I need to try and remember, to focus on. Even when acting weird and refusing to talk."
He bite down on his inner cheek, occasionally glancing up to meet Misty's eyes. She seemed stuck in place, the same encouraging expression staring back.
"Anyway, we're stuck with each other so we might as well make the best of it." She continued. "And besides, how would our sisters get on without us?"
"Heh." He smiled back. "I guess your right... May can be pretty helpless without me there to guide her."
"Then we just need to keep on helping them." Misty stood back up.
"That's our job." He nodded. "Helping our sisters who don't think they need any help."
The two of them set off up the stairs and made it back on deck. His eyes wondered around as he saw the Flygon from before landing back on the deck, letting both Brock and Serena off. He glanced up to the water type specialist, and both of them set off to meet their friends on the deck.
"Hey guys, how did it-" His question died in his mouth as Serena marched past them, not even giving a simple greeting. Turning around, he found the honey-blonde girl disappear into the lower quarters where they just emerged from. "What's wrong?"
"It was pretty rough, Max." Brock's hand landed on his shoulder. "She just needs time to make sense of it all."
"Wanna talk about it?" Misty asked.
"We got to the mainland, and it was being struck by earthquakes. Courtney was in mount chimney, trying to use the rocket fuel to trigger an eruption." He paused and let out a long sigh. "I mean she succeeded... only the magma consumed her too. Only thing she didn't get was awakening Groundon."
He glanced down to his feet and squeezed his eyes shut. The image of his partners at home, cowering under the table with the entire world shaking around them filled his head. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his Pokenav but there was no signal.
"Have you heard from Ash?" she asked.
"No... but given the skies, I'm willing to bet his mission went well," he replied, "as we were leaving... we caught the ending of news report and... it's not good."
"I can only imagine," she mumbled, "lives lost, property destroyed, devastation and wildlife now uninhabitable."
"We might've stopped both aqua and magma," Brock added, "but given the cost... I don't think any of us would call this a victory."
Ash felt himself with some solid ground underneath and collapsed back. Lying on the floor, he opened his eyes to find himself on the beach around the sky pillar. His newly evolved psychic fairy type stood over him and used her telekinesis to move any of the rubble which fell over them.
He struggled to breath at the sight of the long, green, serpent legendary shoot out of the top of the tower. Even from this far down, he could still be amazed at the sheer length of the dragon. A loud, powerful, authoritative roar echoed all around them. A thud to the side, showed Salamence landing beside them with the wild child riding on his back. Zinnia made some wide arm movements to the spot behind him.
"It seems my human wishes to fly alongside the original dragon," Salamence informed, as the young girl continued her frantic movements "my apologise chosen but should you like a ride back, you need to climb on now."
Not wanting to be stuck on some island, he jumped to his feet and ran over to the duo. Pulling off his Pokéball, he recalled the psychic fairy type as he climbed on board. Almost instantly, Salamence took off and they ended up soaring amongst the clouds. Holding onto the blue-scaly body for support, he glanced ahead to see the green and golden legend soaring higher in the sky, more roars echoing around them.
He continued to glance around, taking in the sight of the Hoenn region. The black storm cloud over the ocean seemed to be getting smaller, as if cowering away from the soundwaves. Turning up to the sky, he squinted and wiped his forehead. Maybe it's from the rushing wind but the intense heat also seemed to be cooling off to the more typical levels for the region. A cool breeze sped up across the field as the black cloud almost completely disappeared.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"Rayquaza is making his presence known and clearing up the weather patterns," Salamence informed, "without their orbs neither Groundon or Kyogre could achieve the power levels when they shaped the earth and even if they could... even combined they couldn't overcome the original dragon. His roars are more warnings of what will happen should either side decide to continue on their current path."
"So... he's threatening them?" he asked.
"It's no difference to humans and their law enforcement, making it clear criminals will be arrested and prosecuted," Salamence replied.
Unable to respond, he continued to glance around the open sky as the mighty dragon continued to warn the fellow legends. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out his Pokédex to scan the green sky-serpent:
Rayquaza, The Sky-High Pokémon. This Pokémon is considered legendary. Rayquaza is said to have lived for hundreds of millions of years. Legends remain of how it put to rest the clash between Kyogre and Groundon. Believed to be one of the strongest beings in existence
As he put the device down, he frowned, unable to spot the green and golden beast of the sky. Not wanting to voice his disappointment in not being able to prove that whatever he thinks of aura users is wrong, he focused on the region as a whole. Even from this distance, he could see the black smoke fuming out from several locations on the mainland. He could only image the damage caused by Groundon's reawakening or what that hurricane would've done to the islands scattered around Hoenn's oceans.
As his thoughts brought up the worst images imaginable, the red-winged dragon brought them down onto the old pirate boat once more. He slid off and turned to see who was present. Drake and Steven were up by the wheel, seeming to chat away, with what looked like most of the crew scattered around, helping keep the sails high. Off by the doorway to the cabins were Misty, Brock, and Max, all in some sort of conversation. He decided to approach them first.
"Hey guys." They turned to face him, and the two older trainers offered sad smiles towards him. While the young boy lunged forward, he barely had time to kneel down to embrace him in a tight hug as his tears leaked out of his eyes. Comforting the boy, he glanced up to the others. "What's going on?"
"We were able to rescue Manaphy from the freighter, but the storm got too bad... we barely made it off before it was taken under..." Misty sighed. "And Archie went along with it... then Manaphy- he jumped into the water to try and stop Kyogre who continued to pursue the ship."
"Man..." he muttered. "I can't imagine May..."
"She's locked herself in the cabin and won't talk," she replied, "she barely got ten minutes with him after everything which happened."
"Well, we should give her space... let her work stuff out herself," he replied, remembering the time he lost his own partner back at the lake of rage. Refocusing his gaze, he turned towards the oldest member of their little group. "What about Serena?"
"She's alright... at least physically." He turned to look up to the sky. "But we ended up chasing Courtney into mount chimney. She was planning on using the rocket fuel to blow up the mountain to wake up Groundon a-and she did. Magma filled the room she stood in and as you can imagine... it wasn't pretty."
"Geez," he muttered, trying to process the thought of such a sight. Magma member or not, it would take time to process something like that and he already knew she was starting to sympathises with her after trying to connect minds back at the Mossdeep space centre. "I'll go and check on her later."
"Ash..." He turned to see Max, who slowly let go of the embrace. He tried to keep eye contact but ended up watching his feet as the kicked the wooden floorboards beneath them. "J-Jirachi also contacted me... with his telepathy."
"What did they say?" he asked.
"He passed on a warning... from Rayquaza," he replied, taking a deep breath, "something is coming... soon. And they'll need the assistance of both you and Serena to fight it... and something about some old friends also being present."
"Great." He sighed, wiping his face with his hand. "Don't suppose he gave any other info? Maybe a time or place? Details on what we'll be fighting?"
Rolling his eyes, he can't believe they only just finished this mess before another one's being thrown onto them. Glancing up to the sky, he let his mind wonder for a moment. Shaking his head, he pushed the thoughts away, knowing it'll be next to impossible for him to guess.
"So, what about you?" Misty asked. "How was the sky pillar? Rayquaza?"
"It was... something," he muttered, unable to look her in the eye.
"What's happened?" Brock asked.
"It doesn't really compare to your guys stories b-but let's say I learnt some more about the aura guardians history." He sighed. "And as for Rayquaza, he was less than welcoming. Not exactly a fan and given what I've heard, I can't really blame him. But it does make me wonder why he'd ask for my help then."
A flash of light shot off his belt and his embrace Pokémon materialised behind him. He felt suddenly thankful for the distraction from the current predicament and changing the subject. Max moved up to examine the fully evolved Pokémon as he stood up to join the other travelling companions. Another flash shot off his belt and his normal flying type materialised hovering in front of them, landing on his shoulder.
"So ya'll wanna battle in your mega form?" Swellow asked with a certain glee in her voice. "Sounds right up my alley."
"Hang on, you two-" He stepped between them.
"Harr harr, I be likin' their spirit!" Drake laughed as he and Steven walked towards them. His eyes narrowed. "I'll ne'er, be that there mega stone?"
"Y-yeah, she already had it when we met but she only evolved earlier today." He chuckled lightly, "Which is why I was saying it was too early for her to use it."
"Don't be to 'asty yerself, lad," Drake mused. "Every Pokémon be different. 'ow do ye know she be not ready if ye've ne'er tried it?"
"I hate to interrupt, but I'll be taking my leave. Drake's offered to ferry you all to the nearest civilised island which is Pacifidlog," Steven explained, "and Misty, you need come along with us. We've got the coast guard ships ready to take the prisoners back. Most have already been transferred over, but Lance wants to see you in Slateport."
"Of course," she muttered, stepping forward. They watched in silence as Steven and Metagross helped transport Misty over to one of the smaller boats nearby in the water. It took a few minutes for them to set off but almost instantly, Drake's crew started adjusting the sail and they took off as well.
"Now Ash, 'ow about we see if yer Gardevoir be truly ready fer the power o' mega evolution?" Drake asked.
"You mean have a test match right here?" he asked.
"O' course, this here ship been designed to 'old battles." He smiled. "An' I be interested in what challenge ye can provide."
"I mean, if, you're sure?" he asked.
"He's the dragon guy, right?" Swellow asked, "do I get to go first?"
"Allow me to introduce yer opponent then." He took out a rusted old Pokéball, tossing it up.
A flash of light shot down and a Pokémon materialised behind him. His eyes widened as he studied the reptilian bipedal Pokémon. He had a somewhat long neck and two crests on top of his head. He had semi-circular, yellow eyes with red rims, one had a scar slashed over. A lower jaw and belt-like band across the waist in the same colour. Two lines running along the back, down the middle with two rows of yellow bulbs shaped like seeds. A long tail hung behind, shaped like a palm tree's branch. Both of the long arms had two sharp, elongated leaves and three claws. A cloth band wrapped around the arm, with a mega stone embedded. Looking like a rough-patch job from some previous injury. He pulled out his Pokédex to check out the Pokémon:
Sceptile, The Forest Pokémon. The final evolved form of Treecko. Sceptile has seeds growing on its back. They are said to be bursting with nutrients that revitalize trees. This Pokémon raises the trees in a forest with loving care
"I thought the guy was meant to be a dragon specialist," Swellow muttered.
"Mega evolution can change a Pokémon's type," he whispered, putting the device away, "Ampharos also becomes part dragon type when they go mega."
"They do?" She blinked in surprise. "Do you think he's got an Ampharos? An electric dragon might-"
"Why are you set on battling him?" he asked.
"Because... dragons." She made an exaggerated gesture with her wings. "I wanna beat up a dragon... and we didn't go back to fight that ghost girl at the dance thing, so you owe me."
"Well, this is Gardevoir's challenge so-"
"Not fair!" She pouted, soaring over to perch herself on one of the boats rails. Shaking his head at her childish behaviour, he was kinda reminded of himself, always wanting the chance to battle. She's certainly opened up more since evolution, but that stubbornness will never fade.
"We be burnin' day light." He walked over the main deck, taking up place on the makeshift battlefield. "So, let's get this here match goin'."
"Right!" He moved into his position, with Gardevoir moving up to face off against the grass type. Pausing, he took out another Pokéball and let his own pure grass type out. "Hey Grovyle. I thought you could watch this match. Get some inspiration since Sceptile is your evolved form."
Giving a single nod, he turned and walked over to the rail. Leaning against it, he placed his signature twig in his mouth.
"Alright kid, since this here be a test, I wanna see what 'er strength be before goin' mega." He instructed. "Once I've spied enough, yarr can mega evolve 'er."
"Fine with us, right Gardevoir?!" He called out, to which the psychic fairy type nodded.
Ash verses Drake
He kept his eyes on his newly evolved Pokémon as she charged forward over the wooden floor. Spreading her arms out, balls of ESP formed around her and shot out towards their opponent. However, the pure grass type easily ran around them, avoiding each psyshock as it flew over the boats edges.
Undeterred, she spun on the spot. Forming shadow balls between her hands, she tossed each of them. Rapid fire.
Sceptile kept up his speed, running circles around her. Each of the ghost type projectiles either flew over the edge or imploding hitting part of the ship.
"'ere's a tip, if ye wanna win then ye need to land yer attacks!" Drake called out.
Growling in anger, she slid back and waved her arms around in a specific style. Pushing them forward, a multicoloured beam shot out.
The psybeam struck one of the wooden beams holding up the sails as Sceptile lept off the ground. Landing on one of the wooden polls, he took less than a second to jump off. Landing on an opposing beam, he continued to gain height by jumping between the two sail supports.
His eyes widened as he flashed back to Petalburg woods. His own Grovyle, back as a Treecko, jumping effortlessly from tree to tree.
"Maybe we should just show them what we mean, Sceptile!" Drake hollered with a mighty laugh. His eyes widened at the implication.
Gardevoir crossed her arms over her chest and a wall of ESP formed in front of her. A green blur dived down from the beams towards her.
The large arm blades surging with grass type energy, taking the shape of scythes. Spinning through the air, the leaf blade sliced through her psychic shield.
His embrace Pokémon stumbled back from the blow. While their opponent land right in front of them on one knee. He glanced up for half a second before charging straight into her body. His newly evolved Pokémon went flying and landed flat on her back from the quick attack.
Glancing over the field, he noticed the elite four member flick his eyebrow up. Scratching his chin as his lips pinched together. "Aft to aft duel chops!"
He barely had time to registrar the command as his psychic fairy type stood back up. Their opponent charged forward with fists glowing a dark blue colour.
Sceptile swiftly punched her as she returned to a standing position. Gaining ground on her, he continued his brutal assault with rapid fire punches.
She skidded back across the deck, even passing by himself. The forest Pokémon ended by doing a little leap, swinging his tail around to knock her down.
"Consider yerself lucky yer usin' a fairy type. 'ad we gone with fury cutter then she'd be down fer sure." Drake crossed his arms as Sceptile walked back. His partner was panting slightly as she stood back up. "So, tell me kid, why not 'ave 'er teleport? it would've kept the pressure on us!"
"She wouldn't even if I said," he replied, "she considers it cheap and unfair. I've only seen her use it once and that wasn't even in battle."
"So, she be disciplined." He mused. "Alright then kid, let's see 'er mega evolution. An' I should tell ye, we've faced a mega Gardevoir before, Sceptile & I."
"You have?" he asked, reaching into his pocket for his key stone.
"Aye, it been a match against the Kalos champion!" He nodded. "A ten-minute show fer some research or somethin'. We almost 'ad 'er too!"
"My mother!" Gardevoir gasped, walking forward with a narrowed gaze.
Feeling her excitement radiate off her, he smirked and gripped the key stone. All their memories from the day they met flooded his head. Closing his eyes from the light show, he opened them once the lights dimmed and his mega Gardevoir stood in front of him, just like back in front of Rayquaza.
Restarting the match, she held her hands together and formed a pink sphere. Throwing it straight into the pure grass type.
Bringing his arm down, his leaf blade sliced the moonblast in half. Each side flew either side of him, imploding upon impact.
Her eyes glew and leaked with ESP. Lifting herself up slightly, she started to levitate and skate over the wooden floor, increasing her mobility.
Drake's pure grass type took off, keeping his distance around the field. Opening his mouth, hundreds of golden seeds shot out across the field.
Spinning in her strides, she caught the bullet seeds in her strides. Manipulating them around her, she diverted them off to the side.
Charging forward, the forest Pokémon swung his tail. The thud echoed as it struck the ground, with her able to keep just out of reach through the levitating.
Opening her mouth, she let out a high-pitched screech. Her soundwaves covered in a pink-tint struck their opponent who grimaced from the blast.
His golden bulbs on his back glew bright golden and shot off. Dozens of seeds struck the ground, creating a smoke cloud around Gardevoir. She coughed from the counter and lowered down from her psychic. Unable to continue her disarming voice. Bright blue eyes shone through the smoke cloud.
Sceptile wasted little time in closing the gap. His fists glew with a green-tint of bug type energy. Bring down a quick assault of fury cutters onto her.
The embrace Pokémon did her best to dodge each blow, but she was slower. Forming a purple sphere between her hands, he sliced it in half before firing.
Smashing her hands together. A shield of ESP formed around her, expanding out. Striking the pure grass type, he was sent flying backwards.
Spinning through the air, he landed on one knee as the psychic wave faded. A pink-sphere of fairy type energy shot towards him.
Bringing his arm up, it burst with grass type energy. Slicing the moonblast in half. It exploded upon contact from the power boost.
"Listen kid, yer ne'er fixin' to win if yer 'earts not in it!" Drake shouted. "An' if that be the case, then we should avast this here as we speak!"
The grass type shot out from the smoke cloud and sliced his leaf blades down. Swiping to the side, the two ended up in a sort of dance across the deck-field but he quickly realised Sceptile was leading the duel. He went to call out a move when his eyes met Gardevoir's.
Bright balls shot down from the sky, crashing into Sceptile's back. Knocking him to the side, she smashed her hands together, eyes bursting with ESP.
Psychic powers expanded out of her body, picking the forest Pokémon up. Levitating him off the ground. The golden bulbs began shining under the sun.
Forcing her hands back down, he crashed onto the floor. A wall of bright lights formed between them, blinding Drake's partner.
Gardevoir charged through her own dazzling gleam and pushed both hands into his chest. Her psybeam shot out and sent him flying across the boat.
"Alright Gardevoir!" He cheered, throwing his fist into the air. "Now let's step it up. Misty terrain!"
Closing her eyes, she entered a meditative stance. Her dress seemed to puff up and a pink tinted wind burst out. Covering the deck in a sparkling tone.
She held both hands out and a pink sphere began to form. Growing and growing until twice as wide as her upper body. It shot across the field.
A pure beam of solar energy shot out and struck her massive moon blast. It took a couple moments, but the two moves exploded in a bright flash.
Their opponent charged across the field, bursting through the end result. His leaf blade sliced down where Gardevoir stood.
She slide to the side, using a psychic wave to push along his momentum. Causing the grass type to stumble forward, she swiped her foot under his and had the forest Pokémon slam down on the wooden floor. With a deep breath, she unleashed a disarming voice directly on top of him.
Crushing his ears with both hands, Sceptile cried out in pain. Ash even had to wince and cover his own ears from the unpleasant attack.
Glowing leaves erupted around Drake's partner, causing his embrace Pokémon to stumble back. They shot up into the air and curved over.
Landing right beside the elite four member, the fully evolved starter was revealed. Panting slightly with sweat covering his forehead.
"Harharr kid, jolly work between ye two. I think I can safely say ye 'ave this here under control!" Drake laughed, fiddling with the ring on his finger. His Pokémon walked forward back into the battlefield area. "Sceptile, be 'old me beatin' 'eart an' mega evolve!"
The strands of light expanded from both stones. A cocoon of light embraced his body, wrapping around him. A massive green blade shot out and sliced it in half. Causing the entire thing the burst open, revealing the grass types mega evolution. His head crests became more pointed with a round portion missing from the middle. The red rims around his eyes became smaller and narrower. Each of the golden orbs along his back were larger, with the last pair of seeds being a red colour, while the pair above turned orange. Red stripes encircled the base of his tail and ran across his lower belly. His arm leaves became more pointed, and the upper ones had red tips and half -circles cut out of the middle. The biggest difference was his tail, which grew larger and developed a sort of red stinger at the tip. Taking on more of a rocket shape. Covering his chest and shoulders were plates of leaves, similar to his tail.
"Well kid, I think yer Gardevoir be just fine usin' mega evolution." Drake smiled. "So why don't we just enjoy the rest o' this here battle?"
"Sounds good to us!" He declared, tossing his fist into the air.
Both of their Pokémon crouched slightly. Ready to start the third round of this match. His heart thumped against his chest in excitement.
She let out a low sigh as she stepped off the boat onto the dock of Slateport. Her eyes wondered around. Both her eyes and slips slipped down at the sight surrounding her. Numerous emergency service vehicles were around. Buildings collapsed in on themselves and other things which once stood were crumbled down to the ground. Injured people were lying down or being seen to by medical personal. Pokémon seemed to be clearing away the debris.
Glancing down to the famous beach of the city, she found large waves crashing against the dock where the lighthouse stood. The tourist spot entirely consumed by water from the ocean. Several water Pokémon seemed to be searching the location with a few people on the edge, calling out directions.
The sound of grunts and footsteps drew her attention. Several G-Men officers escorted several aqua prisoners off the nearby boats which arrived with her's.
Taking a deep breath, she slouched in her stance and turned towards the person who climbed off the boat with her. Steven was stood with Lance and the two seemed to be in a deep discussion. Upon walking closer, she realised they were discussing the places hit hardest by the earthquake and hurricane combination. No surprise Lilycove was on the list, but her eyes widened as she got closer-
"-Fallarbor is surprisingly secure. Reports say land gutters were dug out ahead of time and the lava which erupted ended up sliding around them," Lance explained, "they're in need of supplies but very few injuries have been recorded by the personal around there."
"Well, I'll go and oversee the distribution from Mauville and assess the situation there," Steven informed, "I know your guy said it was stable but being under construction and a major city near Chimney's base... I want to verify it myself."
"Of course, I'll update you later on the other locations." He nodded as the champion walked away. Tossing out a Pokéball, his Metagross materialised, and he climbed onto the back of his pseudo. Lifting off into the air, he stood still as they disappeared off into the distance.
She gulped as the dragon type specialist started walking towards her. Closing her eyes, she let everything wash over her as the grim atmosphere was overwhelming. She felt each heartbeat, as if they were timed with Lance's steps until his shadow affected the lighting against her eyes. She slowly peaked out and found the red-haired man stood over her with arms crossed but the sun behind him made his specific details difficult to pick out.
"What happened?" he asked.
"Matt wanted me to return for the final phase... but turns out it was a trap." She squeezed her eyes shut and looked down to her feet. "J told them about when handing over Manaphy a-and Archie... tried to kill me. Pushed me into the stormy waters with intent for me to drown, I think."
"I told you not to go!" His voice sent a shiver down her spin. "Do you have any idea how stupid your move was?! What if Drake never found you or you couldn't use your Pokémon whilst fighting the stormy waters?!"
"...I'm sorry," she muttered, "but I knew they had Manaphy. I had to try and free him... how did Drake know what was happening anyway?"
"His crew is one of the best trained in the open waters for Hoenn and he captained the coast-guard for decades. Given the situation, Steven called and asked him to help out. He was on the way to help our navy arrest the freighter when the storm started." He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Your very lucky to survive. Not everyone has been. I might need to reprimand you but that can wait for your debrief."
"How is everyone else?" she asked, "I heard the ending of your conversation with Steven."
"The mainland-coastal cities like here, Rustboro and Lilycove have been hit the worst. Taking the brunt of both attacks," he explained, "Mossdeep's been mostly unaffected, the psychic types from the gym helped protect from the wind and the earthquakes hardly travelled that far. While places like Larvaridge were hit hard but the smaller buildings meant less damage done was done in comparison. Hoenn's emergency reserves are currently stretched to max."
She nodded and let the situation sink in. More footsteps drew her attention and she turned to see Matt being hauled out of one of the boats and towards a large security van, surrounded by numerous G-Men officers. His head hung low as he dragged his chained feet. Seeing him climb into the truck, she frowned.
"Lance..." She spoke up, grabbing the dragon specialists attention. "Can I... speak to him? Matt?"
He glanced down to her for an uncomfortably long time before closing his eyes and turning back to the van. "You get five minutes... and I'll be listening."
For a brief second, her lips curled up in a small smile, but they quickly fell, and she gave a single nod in return. Following his lead over to the security van, he gestured to the officers, and they opened up the metal doors into the back. Lance stood behind one of the flaps as she climbed up into the back.
Matt sat on one of the seats to the side. His hands and feet cuffed together, connected by chains as he slumped in his seat. Tear tracks stained his cheeks as he gave a slight tilt of the head towards her. Their eyes met for a brief moment before they closed, and he returned to his slouched position.
"What're you doing here, Serena?" he asked, his voice low and meke, almost silent.
"I-its Misty actually," she stuttered, "and... and I wanted to see you. Before they took you off."
"But why?" he asked. "If it's to try and convince me to cooperate, then don't worry. We never intended to hurt people like this. I just... wanted to stop the pollution of the ocean. I'm not going to fight the charges or anything... I just hope they let the kids off easy. They were just trying to help."
"I might've believed that..." She muttered. "Until Archie-"
"I didn't know what he was planning when he pushed you off the freighter." He cut Misty off. "He knew I wouldn't have allowed it... after Shelly's demise... it broke him. He was a good man, but grief can corrupt even the best of people."
"If you need someone to... I dunno, give a character reference-" She muttered, turning back to the exit. "I would be happy to. I saw first-hand how you cared for everyone and was driven just to protect the oceans."
"Thanks, but no thanks." He sighed. "You already helped by stopping this before more people were hurt. I can only ask one thing from you."
"What?" she asked, looking over her shoulder to lock eyes with him.
"Keep ya sails high... for me." He smiled, eyes shimmering with tears. "Without them, you'll never catch the breeze which sends you soaring forward. I can already see your destined for great things. And it couldn't go to a more deserving person."
"I will." She nodded. Walking forward she hopped down from the van and the doors slammed shut once more. Turning back, she watched as it took off down the street. Tears escaped down her cheek as she continued to stare until out of sight. A hand landed on her shoulder.
"Undercover missions are always some of the toughest," Lance spoke up, "after enough time on the force. You learn everyone has their own story and there's nothing harder than putting cuffs on a guy who just got drew the bad card of the deck."
"You're not mad that I offered a character reference?" she asked.
"That was your choice and I understand... I've done it myself for some people I've put away," he replied, "but I'll let you in on a secret. The DA has drafted up a plea for him and it's a pretty good deal. Thirty years, with parole available after two thirds served."
"That's a good deal?" she asked.
"He's been charged as a leading figure in a terrorist organisation, with his other leading conspirators dead." The dragon specialist closed his eyes and turned to the sky. "But most of the damage caused was done on the mainland as a direct result of magma's actions. If he were to fight it, he could be stuck with mass murder and looking at a full life in solitary."
An awkward silence filled the area around them as she continued to look around at the city in despair. She agreed to this mission to stop this very situation happening, but it clearly failed, and she couldn't even help the good people she met who just wanted to save the world's oceans. She let out a long sigh.
"I've arranged transport for you to the local airstrip. Supply planes from nearby regions are already flying in to help the people of Hoenn but some are due to go back for stock up." Lance continued. "You'll get back to Kanto by tomorrow where you'll be debriefed."
She couldn't even bring herself to voice her thoughts. A jeep pulled up and she climbed on board. Her eyes lingering on the devastation caused as she was taken out of the main city area. A pool of guilty hit her stomach as she squeezed her eyes shut from the failure of this entire situation.
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