A/N: Super slow updates are getting slower xD But hopefully it's worth the wait?
We are officially ending the Kanto Arc and moving right along to Johto! :D
A shriek of terror pierced the night air as Abrielle jolted upward, waking with a fright – heart pounding through her chest, a cold sweat breaking out over her skin, and rapid puffs of air passing between her lips. A flash of green out of the corner of her eye startled her, but once she realized it was her scyther she relaxed a bit. The mantis pokémon took a defensive stance in front of her, its scythes waving through the air as it looked out into the darkness in search of a threat. After a few seconds it reasoned that it was a false alarm and knelt down beside Brie, its piercing gaze somehow making her feel more at ease. Her other partners seemed on edge as well, and she whispered an apology as they attempted to soothe her.
Following her success in defeating the Rocket boss and witnessing his arrest by the local authorities firsthand, Abrielle had been hopeful that her nightmares would start to subside.
And yet, it seemed quite the opposite was occurring.
Every time she closed her eyes at night, Abrielle remembered standing in front of the Silph Co. building, her small hand shaking in her brother's steady grip. This image was now accompanied by the silhouettes of Giovanni and Archer rising up tall enough to loom above them like a black cloud – malicious smiles tugging at their lips as they started chuckling darkly. The Rocket boss's final words echoed through her mind as the scene seemed to replay on a continuous loop, eliciting goosebumps and a tightness in her stomach that made her feel sick.
"Until we meet again . . . Abrielle."
"Stop it!" She chastised herself, cupping her face while trying to wipe some sweat away. Her bangs felt slightly damp from perspiration, and she inhaled a deep breath of fresh air trying to calm her nerves.
Abrielle had been on the fence whether or not to lodge at the Viridian City Pokémon Center after she recovered from her fainting spell. If she had been on the Rockets radar before, she was definitely a red flag now. The thought of Giovanni being trapped behind bars did little to abate her concerns. Brie knew how clever and devious the man was, and he would certainly find a way to either escape from jail or control any remaining operatives on the outside from within his cell. His crime spree had persisted for many years, and it was heavily rumored that the man had established headquarters in the Johto region in addition to the Kanto branch.
With this at the forefront of her mind, even in her half-woken state, Brie felt the weight of her next move bearing down on her – the next decision had to be the right one.
Should she set out for Johto immediately in pursuit of whatever remnants of the Rockets were left?
Or . . . would it be better to wait, train more, and maybe even take on the Elite Four at the Indigo Plateau?
Abrielle had earned all eight badges, and it seemed like a waste not to gain more experience and insight with battling different pokémon. After all, the Elite Four were said to be the strongest trainers with the most powerful teams. Only the current reigning champion stood above them.
The badges felt heavier as they rattled around in the box they were housed in, though the weight more figurative than literal. Even so, Abrielle knew it was probably guilt from accepting the Earth Badge. Initially she had refused the take it from Giovanni – having literally smacked it out of the man's hand.
And yet, ultimately, she had opted to retrieve it from off the ground and take it with her.
Upon leaving her home in Fuchsia City roughly two years ago, Abrielle had sought to fulfill her promise to her brother, Leal by learning more about pokémon and growing stronger by building bonds with them.
After her initial run-in with the Rockets, however – and every encounter that followed – her focus had gravitated more toward destroying the criminal organization. Collecting badges had become less about achievement and more about training and honing her skills – acquiring the strength to destroy Team Rocket. Gaining strength had become her top priority above all else, but it hadn't occurred to her until she was in too deep what, exactly, had been the cost.
Tears had started to collect in the corners of her eyes, and Abrielle began to sob in silence, her arms wrapped around her legs, holding them to her chest even as her pokémon tried to nestle around her. Arcanine had managed to nudge its head onto her lap as the others settled as comfortably as possible around her.
She knew it was pointless to let feelings like these consume her – they would only slow her down.
While she didn't much care for the theatrics and excitement normally associated with participating in the Pokémon League challenge, Abrielle felt that it was probably best to see her journey through Kanto to its respective end and learn whatever else she could by doing so. Hopefully it would imbue even more knowledge and ideas for strategies into her repertoire before setting out for Johto.
The sadness still crept into her bones and tugged at her heartstrings while her mind unconsciously gravitated toward those she cared about and would likely never seen again, or at the very least, not for a long time.
She thought of her adoptive father, Hotaru and his last words to her before she set off.
"That's quite an ambitious goal you have, but I think it's fantastic, and you have my full support."
I wonder if I'd still have your support if you knew what I've gotten myself into . . . Abrielle thought to herself while wiping away a few stray tears. I'd like to think so, but who am I kidding? I probably don't deserve it anymore.
Koga and Janine had agreed to keep an eye on Hotaru in her stead and send updates via the National Pidgey Mail Service (a subsidiary of the National Fearow Mail Service), and although it wasn't the same as being able to check on him herself, it was the best option her current situation afforded her. This delivery service had been established to facilitate the process of letters and other small parcel transactions between regions, and up until now it seemed somewhat reliable. Still, her heart ached at the thought of never being able to see her adoptive father again, even if it was ultimately for the best.
Would she ever feel capable of looking him in the eye or feeling worthy of his love after everything she's done and planned to do?
Then there was her brother, Leal.
Although updates had become fewer and farther between the years following his departure to Kalos, Abrielle had looked forward to hearing from her older brother. She had clung to him after their parents' passings, and she missed him terribly, her mind always wondering what he was up to, what Kalos was like, and what kinds of interesting research and discoveries he was making while working with their late father's mentor and colleague, Professor Sycamore. These letters were no longer possible to read or listen to Hotaru narrate, and they likely never would be again.
I wonder if you would be disappointed in me, too? I've definitely diverged from the promise I made you, but I'm sure you're still plugging away on your research.
The sensation of something round and smooth rubbing against the skin of her wrist caused her to open her eyes and look down. Arcanine was gently nuzzling against her, causing the obsidian bracelet to slide up and down her arm a bit.
Steven . . . how could I forget?
As if having to cut her losses with Hotaru and Leal wasn't enough, Abrielle had internally resigned herself to cutting ties with her first friend.
It wouldn't be that difficult, she reasoned, since Steven lived in Hoenn, and she didn't have any plans to get there, nor means to travel that far. But the memory of his warm smile and kind words, coupled with his soft voice and gentle, reassuring touch upon her shoulder conjured a mixture of feelings. He was so much like her brother, and yet he was definitely his own person. Steven was a combination of childlike wonder and adult wisdom. His interests were unique, but also somewhat charming. His steadfast disposition at trying to pry her out of her shell had irritated her, but his genuine enjoyment of her company had sucked her back in almost seamlessly. He seemed too old to be a friend in the truest sense of the word, and yet too young to be an adult. But there was such a youthful energy in his presence, and a mature sensibility in him as well. Steven was definitely an amalgamation of everything, it seemed.
But he was gone, now – and it was for the best . . . or so she told herself.
She had to convince herself it was true, otherwise the thought of being alone seemed too unbearable.
Away from from family and friends for an indefinite amount of time shook her up inside.
Abrielle steeled herself and shook these thoughts from her mind.
Closing her eyes, she did her best to shut herself off from the world until morning. Abrielle knew she had to be smart about her next move, and anticipated seeing Giovanni again at some point, possibly even Archer. She released a silent prayer that she could be ready to take them all down and get rid of them for good. Brie was invested in this now, and knew she would see it through to its end.
Victory Road was a bit daunting in spots, but nothing drastic enough to shake her resolve. The pokémon inside the cave were fierce and strong, but laughable to her intensely trained team. Even other trainers scattered along the path to the Pokémon League's gates weren't much of a challenge. Scyther had swept many of its opponents without breaking a sweat, and the remainder of her team finished filled in as needed.
Emerging from the cave caused Abrielle to squint as her eyes adjusted to the brightness of the sunlight.
"We made it." She breathed, her voice steady as she stared onward at the entrance to the Pokémon League. "Let's get healed up, buy some more supplies, and then see what we can do."
Scyther had emerged beside her, its eyes staring up into her own sharply and she nodded, understanding what it was thinking.
"I intend to stay true to my word." Abrielle said softly. "Lend me your strength once more, and if you wish to return to the forest where I found you, I will make sure you get back there. I know you have unfinished business."
Scyther said nothing, but it's gaze didn't waver. "You have time to decide what you want to do. For right now, let's focus on fighting as hard as we can and learning how to get stronger, okay?"
This seemed to please the dual bug- flying- type, a swift nod of its head followed by its return to the pokéball secured in Abrielle's hand.
"Abrielle, was it?" Lorelei mused as she clacked her heels against the icy cold floor of her chamber. "I wonder, will you be able to make me feel the heat of battle? Or will your team be frozen solid, completely at my mercy?"
"I suppose we'll find out." Abrielle countered, lobbing her first pokéball onto the field in time with her opponent.
Lorelei's team proved to be somewhat challenging, her harsh icy assault hitting hard against the majority of Brie's partners that were at obvious type disadvantages. Considering she had no electric- or fighting-types at her disposal to counter the water and ice combinations, she did remarkably well – relying on speed and agility to dodge most attacks while getting hits in as feasible.
"How exhilarating!" Lorelei appraised her with a surprisingly warm smile. "I do believe you've thawed my heart a bit with that fiery performance. Go forth, Bruno is waiting for you!"
The second chamber revealed the man in question sitting on the floor deep in meditation. Abrielle wondered if she was supposed to come back at a later time when he was finished with his breathing when his eyes suddenly snapped open and he released a "Hoo-hah!", startling her.
"Through rigorous training, people and pokémon can become stronger." He started, his voice low and unwavering in fortitude. "Although I sense you're fully aware of this and have trained your team immensely as well . . . I suppose we shall see which of us will rise victorious. Will you be able to hold your own? Or will we grind you down with our superior power?"
"Let's see!" Abrielle answered while initiating the second battle.
Bruno's offensive tactics landed some powerful punches and kicks, even landing critical hits more readily than she had anticipated. But even in all their ferocity and fury his fighting-type pokémon were defeated.
"Impressive." He noted while gesturing toward the door to the next room, where Agatha was waiting.
The room was dark and ominous, the faint flicker of candles adding to the eeriness of the chamber. Abrielle shuddered internally, not too keen on ghost-type pokémon personally, though not quite afraid of them. It was more the thought that she felt surrounded by spirits, and it triggered that too close to home response from her. The sound of a dark cackle shattered the silence, and Abrielle's eyes darted over toward the direction of the sound. Lights illuminated the room a tad, revealing who she assumed was the woman called Agatha.
"Welcome, child." She said with a smirk. "Is it true that Oak entrusted you with a Pokédex?"
Abrielle nodded slowly, not sure what that had to do with anything.
"Interesting." Agatha hummed. "He used to be a tough and handsome man who battled alongside his pokémon. And now . . ." Grimacing bitterly she added, "Now he just fiddles around the lab with that invention of his. It's a darn shame, you know. Pokémon are for battling, not studying wouldn't you agree?"
"I agree that they do battle for us, but they're not weapons either." Brie offered. "Well, they don't have to be . . ."
But sometimes that's exactly what they become in the wrong hands. Her mind echoed, the memory of her parents' fates flashing through it instantaneously.
"Humph! I suppose this is a battle of convictions, too!" The ghost-type trainer clucked her tongue. "Enough idle chatter – let's have our pokémon do the talking . . . NOW!"
Abrielle couldn't agree more, and tossed her pokéball onto the field seconds after her opponent did the same.
Agatha had managed to lay some groundwork by inflicting some rather nasty status conditions such as poison, confusion, and sleep, but this slow down did not starve Brie and her team of a hard-earned victory.
"You win this time." She almost spat, clapping her hands and causing all the lights to turn on in the room, the candles blowing out in a snap. "But next time . . . we shall see. Press onward, our leader is waiting for you.
Healing up her team and relieving them of any residual poisoning or disorientation, Abrielle took a deep breath. Clear blue eyes staring ahead at the long hallway, she wondered vaguely if she could actually defeat the last remaining member of the Elite Four. She had heard from each previous member how immeasurably strong the man named Lance would be with his dragon-type pokémon, their special attack and physical strength making for quite a formidable obstacle to overcome. Rumor had it that Lance possessed one of the rarest, most fearsome pokémon – a dragonite. While Abrielle was by no means an expert on pokémon, she could imagine the force expelled from the creature's hyper beam and dragon rage attacks. Adding insult to injury, the dragon pokémon likely knew attacks that could counter most types that dared challenge it, able to wield the power of moves like blizzard, thunder, and even fire blast.
Don't overthink it. She told herself. Every pokémon has a weakness, even something as fearsome as that dragonite.
Stepping inside the chamber, Abrielle swallowed the lump in her throat as she caught a glimpse of her opponent. The man standing before her was intense, his cape adding to the already daunting appearance he possessed. His eyes were sharp and scrutinizing as they gazed at her approaching form. His crimson hair shot upward like a flame, and the stern look on his face only made him appear even harsher. Needless to say, the pleasant greeting he gave to her seemed in stark contrast to how he looked.
"Welcome. I am Lance, the leader of the Elite Four and master of dragon-type pokémon." Revealing his arm from beneath his cape, causing it to billow out dramatically he continued, "And you must be Abrielle . . . I've heard some interesting things about you from the gym leaders."
What does that mean? She wondered suddenly, hoping it wasn't anything to do with her involvement with the Rockets. To her knowledge, only Erika and Koga were privy to her run-ins with the criminals. She certainly hoped news of her actions hadn't reached across the Kanto region – if that was the case, she was certain that Hotaru would hear of it, and the thought made her stomach ache.
Retrieving a pokéball from his belt Lance smirked. "I'm sure you're no stranger to the fact that these mythical pokémon are quite difficult to capture and raise, but the hard work of doing so pays off tenfold. The power of dragon-types is superior to that of other pokémon, making them virtually indestructible."
Abrielle felt her heart beating rapidly in her chest, but she continued walking forward until she reached her side of the battlefield. Lance quirked an eyebrow, a flicker of amusement evident in his otherwise intense gaze. "Are you ready, Abrielle?"
She nodded and readied her first pokéball, fingers wrapped tightly around it.
"Alright then, let's begin! Come forth, Gyarados!" The dragon master belted as he lobbed his pokéball onto the field.
Abrielle raised her eyebrows a bit, realizing that his first pokémon may have physically looked like a dragon, but was not a dragon type.
Gyarados is a dual water- and flying-type . . . although I know it can learn dragon rage as an attack. She thought to herself. I wonder if any of his other pokémon are in a similar boat . . . this should be interesting.
Lance's words about the awe-inspiring power of dragons had proven to be true, and Abrielle certainly felt that she was losing her footing at times. Her team was fast, but his was faster. Though her attacks hit hard, his pokémon's attacks hit harder. Seadra's ice beam managed to help slow down both dragonair, but it just couldn't keep up with Lance's dragonite. Scyther delivered and endured many powerful moves, however it just wasn't able to go toe-to-toe with Lance's strongest partner for too long, finally collapsing onto the field in defeat.
Abrielle cursed under her breath, frustrated with the loss, but not because of the loss itself, but rather the reality check it delivered. If Giovanni or any of the other members of Team Rocket ever managed to collect a large number of dragon-type pokémon she knew she would be in over her head.
And didn't he say he was planning to assemble a legion of the strongest pokémon? She shuddered at the thought. Moving forward, I need to plan for this type of pokémon, too.
"That was a magnificent battle. You were more powerful than I anticipated . . ." The leader of the Elite Four stated flatly, a small smile claiming his face as he approached Brie and snapped her out of her mind's wanderings. "I never thought I would need to bring out my dragonite, but you forced my hand. Your pokémon really respond to your strong will and determination. I've never seen such unyielding strength and endurance before, even in the face of adversity. I can see why the gym leaders were making a fuss over you."
"T-Thanks." She managed, her mind coming back to the present. "And that's . . . sweet, I guess." Her cheeks were burning a tad from embarrassment. "Though I suppose I still have a lot to learn if I'm going to be able to defeat them."
Quirking an eyebrow Lance was about to inquire who she was referring to, but Abrielle thanked her team and placed her pokéballs back into her satchel before turning on her heel. Just as she was about to leave she heard him speak once more.
"As the former champion of the Kanto region, I'm privy to much of the important information pertaining to the well-being of the people and pokémon that inhabit the area." He said suddenly while taking a few steps closer. "With that being said, I've heard from several sources about your run-ins with a group called Team Rocket."
Abrielle instantly froze and felt her blood run cold.
So he was referring to her involvement with the Rockets when he mentioned having heard 'interesting things' about her!
Crap.
"I also know that you were the last trainer to be awarded the Earth badge and, therefore, most likely the one who assisted local authorities in the discovery and arrest of their leader, Giovanni a few weeks ago. I still cannot believe he was hiding in plain sight, but the man is cunning, I'll give him that." Shaking his head in disdain he added, "As you can probably imagine, we now have to find another gym leader to assume the role and fill in the vacancy. Otherwise, no upcoming trainers will be able to receive the eighth gym badge and qualify to challenge us."
At this point Abrielle could feel his eyes boring into her despite the fact that her back was facing him.
"Is it safe to assume I'm correct?"
I don't know how to answer this . . . She thought to herself as she began to worry that she was in trouble in some way, though that seemed highly unlikely given she was cooperating with the police.
"I did win the Earth badge, yes." Abrielle admitted, biting her bottom lip and grateful she couldn't see his face scrutinizing her own. "And I did help the police by telling them where I was so they could arrive before he got away . . ."
"I see." Lance mused for a moment as a silence quickly settled between them. "So I was right, then."
Just as she was about to continue on her way she felt a firm hand settle onto her shoulder, causing her to flinch slightly.
"My apologies." His voice was a bit softer now, having sensed that he had most likely spooked the poor girl. "I just wanted to confirm . . . I, too, have been working with the police to help dismantle the criminal syndicate, and am fortunate to have met an ally of justice."
Abrielle finally turned to face the dragon master, whose expression seemed to convey appreciation for her pains and efforts. "Ally of justice?"
Lance nodded firmly. "After everything I heard, combined with the immediate rush of adrenaline I felt as you entered this room, and now . . . after having battled you, I can say with certainty you are a truly capable trainer." Combing his hair back with his hand he added, "If you happen to venture into Johto, we may cross paths again. I have business there that I need to attend to more often lately."
"O-Okay." She acknowledged him with as much confidence as she could. "And it's good to know other powerful trainers are trying to stop the Rockets, too."
Lance nodded and smirked a bit. "Exactly, so don't feel like you're going in alone." He added. "But also . . . don't take on everything by yourself, either. It's okay to ask for help, never forget that. As capable as you are, you still need to be mindful. These are criminals we're talking about, and they're very dangerous."
"Believe me, I'm fully aware of how dangerous they are." She retorted, anger bubbling up from inside her once more as her mind replayed what she willed to remain buried in the depths of her consciousness.
Lance visibly swallowed hard, sensing that she had already experienced firsthand how despicable those people were, but not wanting to provoke the matter any further. "Well then . . ." He started anew as he cleared his throat. "I suppose what I'm trying to say is . . . it's admirable to help the police, but do so in a manner that allows you to minimize your risk and prioritize your safety. Do you understand?"
Abrielle nodded and he sighed deeply, feeling a bit relieved by her response.
"Fair enough."
Suddenly, another voice chimed in, causing Lance to turn toward the sound curiously.
"Sheesh, what's taking so long?" A man who appeared to be in his late teens, maybe early twenties strode over toward them both, his arms gesturing an exaggerated 'What?' in the air as he got closer. "I hear the battle going on between you both and then . . . nothing but idle chat. Is she coming or what?"
"My apologies, Blue." Lance started anew. "But Abrielle was defeated by me and my team, and will therefore not be moving on to battle you. I meant to inform you after we finished, but I got caught up in the discussion we were having."
"Ugh, seriously?" He groaned while eyeing her. "And here I thought I'd finally have some action. Ever since Red came and went, I haven't had many challengers. I suppose I was wrong to assume this time would be different."
"Blue, don't be rude." The leader of the Elite Four countered suddenly. "It was a close match, honestly. Abrielle has some more growing to do, but I dare say that if she were to return for re-match . . ."
"Pfft, who knows if I'll even still be here!" He lamented. "As much as I enjoy being champion, I'm honestly tired of waiting around for trainers. I'm contemplating whether or not to apply for that gym leader position that just became available."
"You'd still be waiting around for trainers." Lance noted, at which the young champion rolled his eyes.
"But it's different. I'd get to battle a lot more trainers that way - granted a bit weaker, but I'd also have more flexibility to travel a bit and keep helping my gramps with his research, too." Stretching and yawning he added, "I mean, nothing is definite yet, but I'm entertaining the idea . . . obviously I'll keep you and the rest of the Elite Four in the loop." Fixing his gaze on Abrielle, who had been standing off to the side listening quietly, Blue added "And as for you . . . Abrielle was it? Don't think I won't expect a battle at some point." Smirking knowingly he continued, "I mean, you made it this far. If you've got the potential Lance claims, I'll have no choice but to crush you at some point. Stealing victories from powerful trainers is one of my favorite undertakings."
Abrielle raised an eyebrow and sort of grimaced. He seemed much too full of himself for her taste, and the thought of having him eat some humble pie sounded rather pleasing.
But she was in no rush for that, her mind already fixed on traveling to Johto.
Taking a deep breath she let the snarky comments roll off her back. This young man would get his in due time, she just had to be patient and keep getting stronger.
"Well, since I'm no longer needed for today, I'll be heading back to Pallet Town." Blue noted aloud while stepping past them, continuing to talk over his shoulder. "My sister keeps nagging me to call her, so I figure a visit will make up for all the times I didn't return her calls." Gesturing a goodbye he smirked and disappeared from view, leaving Lance and Abrielle standing in silence for a moment.
Crossing his arms in front of his chest the dragon master cleared his throat. "Don't forget what I told you, all right?" He asked much more softly than before as he gently patted her shoulder and walked past her, the lights in the chamber indicating where she should exit and, therefore, conclude her league challenge.
"I won't." Abrielle breathed as she proceeded to leave, her sights set on Tohjo Falls – the most feasible connection point for her to travel back to in order to reach New Bark Town. To whatever degree possible, she wanted to try to keep her promise to her brother – to better understand pokémon and grow stronger. He believed strength and power correlated with relationships, just as their father had. Despite their unique bodies of research, all pokémon researchers credited the importance of the bonds formed between trainers and their pokémon. She would confer with Johto's leading researcher, Professor Elm before traveling through the area in earnest.
Healing her team on the way out, she remembered something important and decided to find a quiet place outside.
Retrieving the first pokéball she had ever held she released her partner. Scyther emerged with a shrill outcry and searched the area for a challenger, refreshed and ready for another round of battle. When it noticed the area was still and Abrielle was sitting on the ground across from it, the dual flying- bug-type settled down on the grass as well.
"As I'm sure you know, I'm planning to head out to Johto." She began, setting the ball on the ground between herself and the mantis pokémon. "I've heard the rumors, and honestly I can't simply ignore the possibility that the Rockets are continuing their heinous crimes under the radar. We got Giovanni and Archer locked up for now, but who knows for how long? And how many more executives are there? Lance seems to think that Team Rocket has another headquarters set up in Johto, too. . ."
Scyther released an angry sound as its eyes narrowed intensely, but it kept its scythes resting at its sides calmly.
"I try my best to keep the promises I make." She continued. "So I'm giving you the choice of either continuing to lend me your strength for a while longer, or return to your home now before I set out." Smiling a bit as she eyed her strongest partner, taking notice of the scars and marks it wore proudly she added, "I'm fine with your decision, either way."
A brief moment of silence filled the space between them before the pokémon rose to its feet. Abrielle watched as it proceeded to raise its scythe upward and, she assumed, slice the ball in half or destroy it, conveying its desire to end their partnership. With a sudden CLICK the ball opened and Scyther disappeared inside of it in a red burst of light, the device wavering only seconds before sealing shut.
"So that's your answer?" She sort of teased, carefully picking up the pokéball and holding it in both hands as if cradling something precious. "You've never been much of a talker." Abrielle chuckled under her breath. "Fair enough. I understand . . . thank you." Placing the ball back inside of her satchel and releasing her pidgeot, she slowly climbed aboard and ordered it to take off. Pulling out her map, she kept her eyes peeled as they made their way to the connection point between the two regions, wondering what awaited her and if she was ready to tackle it head on.
