Hi everyone and welcome to the chapter number 15 of this fic.
To keep with the usual schedule... it's TIME WITH REVIEWS!
Itsnowedlastnight: thanks a lot. I never imagined that my fic would achieve the 100k in only 14 chapters, but I'm not complaining. In fact I'm very proud of how is the fic going and of course about the good feedbacks that you and the other reviewers provide. I hope that you like this one too.
novaking2832: You are right with that, Ruby hasn't still fought in public. For that to "entirely" happen you'll have to wait a some more, but I hope that those chapter don't dissapoint you. Also I hope that your exams went good enough for you (I wanted to say good luck, but you already finished them...) Thanks for your review anyway!
GUEST nº1:thanks, I'm glad you liked it. And for your question, not in this one. I won't say more XD.
Natsuna2427 or GUEST nº2 (your reviews are almost the same so I assume that you reviewed twice XD): Don't be sad about those exams, you only have to work a little harder (I failed some test with those grades myself last year, but I could pass them without many problems this time. God I talk like Ruby in the fic XD). I'm sorry, but that wasn't the extra-long chapter I had planned, in fact it was the half of it. I was also surprised about the words in that chapter, but I was even more surprised when I saw that this one is only 100 words shorter! Anyway, thanks for your review and have fun wil reading this one.
GUEST nº3: I believe you are right with that... And I love Cliffhangers! Thanks for reviewing.
So... that's all for today with TIME WITH REVIEWS. As I said this chapter is the second part of that extra-long one I talked about... Seeing how long had become the forst one I decided to split it in two. I'm sorry because I said that I would try to update earlier than when I was used to, but I finally took more than the usual time to finish it. If I had to guess, I believe that you would like the chapter, or that's what I hope.
Before we start... LC5 wnated to say some words XD:
Hello people, LC5, the editor of this story here to do a part in the beginning, here is a to get to know me by
1) I have a show on YouTube called ButtonJam ( SHAMLESS SELF PROMOTION!)
2) I love Pokemon (COMPLETELY OBVIOUS!)
3) I love to play the guitar and make random music just by making sounds with my mouth and seeing what sounds good.
4) despite looking like Ruby, I have almost the exact personality of Gold
DISCLAIMER: Neither LC5 or Rubyspe own Pokemon, whether it Be games, anime, or manga. If either of us did, the manga WILL be Canon. LC5 is trying to buy out Nintendo with a rubber band, a hammer, and a rubber duckie. So far, none of his attempts have worked.
All this said... READ and ENJOY!
Saturday 19th of October
Red's POV
I was inside my aparment. It was nearly nine o'clock so the others were going to be here in half an hour. Being in the exams period we were very busy studying or training a little so we didn't have much time to cook any difficult dish. Because of this we agreed that we would order some home-delivered pizzas when everyone got here so after I finished setting everything I just sat down to watch something on the tv. I was watching some information about a pokemon tournament that would take place next Sunday. It seemed to be a very important event, because some Gym leaders would be there to participate. I had worked with some of them while battling Team Rocket and Giovanni. Brock and Misty would be there, as well as Flannery and Whitney for example. Also some others that we never met would be there, Morty and Brawly. We never met them, but the ones we had met said they were quite strong and very friendly. Those 6 gym leaders would compete against each other and 10 more people who would be the winners of the preliminaries. While the people in the program started to discuss who of the gym leaders would win I heard two low knocks on the door. I immediately knew who was waiting outside the door, but I was surprised for her to come so early.
-H-hi Red- she said looking at her shoes when I opened the door.
-Hey Yellow, come on in- I told her and I led her to the living room- Why are you here so early?
-I-I only came to see if I c-could help you with something- she said quite nervous.
-Well, thanks for that, but I already prepared everything so all that is missing are for the others to order our pizzas.
-O-ok- she said and sat down still looking to her shoes, it wasn't normal for her to be that shy around me.
-Are you feeling well Yellow?- I asked.
-What? No um… Yes, I'm fine-she said smiling nervously.
-Are you sure? You seem more nervous than usual…
-I guess I am…
-You are hiding something, aren't you?- I said to her.
-I'm not hiding anything- she started- it's just that I-I want to do something, but I don't know how to do it.
-If I can help you… you only have to ask- I told her- You know that, right?
-Of course I know…- she whispered- It's just that this thing also involves you.
-Me?- I asked curious.
-Y-you heard that?- she asked surprised.
-Yeah, why?
-I thought… never mind- she said looking again to her shoes.
-So… what involves me?- I asked her.
-Well… I wanted to ask… you…- she began.
-What do you want to ask me?
-I wanted to ask you if you would come to th-the b-ball with me- she ended and I was surprised.
-The ball?- I asked- Why do you want to go there?
-Well… I was curious. I saw in movies that people often go there and have fun so I wanted to go- she said.
-Okay, I understand that. But why do you want to go with me?- I asked.
-Because… We need a guy to come with us- she said then.
-But why me?- I asked- You could ask Gold, Green, Silver, Emerald…
-So you don't want to come?- she asked in a disappointed voice.
-It's n-not that…- I said then embarrassed for the next question.
-Then?
-It's just that I don't know how to dance and I've never danced before- I said- I'm afraid of making a fool of myself there.
-That wouldn't be a problem…- she said- I don't know either so we will be the two who don't know how to do it.
-And does that concern you?- I asked her.
-Yes, but only a little. I want to go there and have fun- she said- And I think it would be good to go there… with y-you.
I was very surprised. I would've never imagined that I would have to go to the ball at all. I wasn't really expecting this to happen, but seeing Yellow so eager and looking forward to go… I couldn't refuse and, who knows, maybe I would have fun too… Plus I would be going with HER so… There were only good points in the question.
-Okay then… I'll go with you!- I said.
-Really?- she said with a surprised face.
-Yeah- I said and she hugged me surprising us both.
-Thank you Red!- she said, but when she noticed how close we were she just stood up and turned away as while I looked to another side too- I-I'm so s-sorry… Uh it's the door, I'll open it.
And sure enough there had been knocks on the door. With that, and in pairs or trios, the others Dexholders plus Rub came and we ordered the pizzas. When they came we started to talk about the exams we had, the ones we still had to do and plans for the weekend.
-I'm just going to study… we have some difficult exams next week- said Sapphire.
-Such as?- inquired Silver- The ones I have left are quite easy.
-Speak for yourself!- said Gold- I don't even know if I'll be able to pass most of them.
-If you just studied a little…- sighed Crystal.
-Maths, Silver, lots and lots of maths…- answered Sapphire- I don't even know how to study them. I can't understand them!
-Sure sure…- laughed Rub.
-What do you mean by that?- said Sapphire quite surprised as the most of us. I have never heard Rub make fun of us like that. Something was odd, though. He was smiling to her.
-I mean that the same happened with Geography on Monday and look how happy you were when you got your result…- he said.
-Of course I was happy- she said her confused face turning to a proud one- I got 68% while the most I ever got was something around the 60%.
- You studied hard and it went well. Just don't worry, the same will happen with math- he said grabbing another slice of his pizza- just have some faith in yourself.
He added and got a bite of that slice. Sapphire then was wearing a more confident look as well as her fangy smile. While doing this I saw Blue give the two one of those smiles that nobody really likes. When Sapphire saw that smirk she just turned away embarrassed.
-That's true Sapphire, plus it will be the last exam before the "Battle Royale" so after that will come the best time of the year- said Emerald- What are you all going to do? I will join Rub and Sapphire while studying.
-I will be helping Mr. Immature over here… He needs the help if he doesn't want to fail the course- said Crystal.
-I'll be studying too, as you know I'm not the smartest when it comes to theory so I'll just try my best to pass them all- I said.
-I'll be helping gramps tomorrow... he said something of a big investigation in around a big cave with strange symbols- said Green.
-Are you going? What about exams?- asked Emerald.
-I think I'm prepared for them- he said-I will study more when I come back, it will only be tomorrow.
Blue said that he would be studying along with Yellow and after a little while they all left leaving me alone in my apartment. It was 11:30 so I went to sleep after feeding all my pokemon Pika, Gyara, Poli, Lax, Saur, and Aero the leftovers of the pizzas that we had left.
Sunday 20th of October
Green's POV
After getting out of the forest, I found myself in a grass field. The area was surrounded by a dense forest and mountains by all sides except for the south, where the mountains left a space where a car could go through. We had to go there walking, flying with our flying types or riding our pokemon. The flying types were carrying the equipment Professors Oak and Elm were bringing so that we were going there by foot. I let gramps get carried by Machamp while Elm, who is a lot younger, walked the same as me. In the middle of the grass field stood some scientific equipment and some tents surrounding a massive Pyramid sculptured in what once had been an even greater hill.
I looked at the time and my Pokegear said that it was 11:21 pm. The place wasn't so far from the Academy. Flying on Charizard it took less than 3 hours to get there at a normal pace. It was on the north from there so the place where the opening where I found both Professors waiting for me in Elm's wagon was right where I came from. When I met them we entered the forest and there I had to battle some good pokemon, but I was able to get through without any problems. They were quite strong, but mine were much stronger. I understood then why researchers were always accompanied by some good battler in those places.
-So gramps, what's the important thing about this place?- I asked him- You never really told me.
-I still don't know myself Green- he said.
-In fact we know pretty much the same as you- stated Elm- Prof. Birch will be the one to explain it all. We will be the only people to be here today.
-You mean that we will only be 4 people here?- I asked- Where are the rest of the researchers and Gym leaders, I thought you said that this was a big investigation.
-It's a very important investigation, but the rest of the people who usually are here are either at that tournament I talked you about or at home- said gramps.
-I believe though that Birch's friend will be here though so we will be 5 of us- ended Elm- the other researchers said that without the Gym leaders to protect them, they didn't want to be here.
-So much for researchers- I sighed.
-Well we are the only ones who are specialized in pokemon so it's not rare that they need protection- explained Prof. Oak- Their expertise is weather, geological, or geographic issues, not pokemon so it's understandable.
-If you put it like that…
With that we entered the camp searching for those two people around the place. After my Charizard landing with the equipment I saw two people approaching us: one wore a white lab coat and has brown hair and beard. The color of those was the same as his daughter hair. The other, the man I didn't know, was taller and had black hair. He wore a red sweater and dark-blue pants. He had an aura around him and a glare that showed a determined and strong nature.
-Oak! Elm!- said Sapphire's dad approaching his fellow friends and companions- It's great to see you.
-Indeed it is Birch- said Elm.
-I see you are doing well Birch- said my grandfather.
-I try my best!- Birch said with a laugh- thanks for helping me with this.
-We couldn't deny you that favor- said Elm- Plus we are very intrigued with this issue.
-It's been a while Green- he said to me offering his hand, which I took - How's everything?
-It's been great- I told him.
-Is my daughter behaving?- he said with a laugh also.
-She is doing great, she is improving her battle skills and working hard- I told my friend's father- Just like you I see.
-It's my job and I love it, just like you and her love yours- he said then- It's good to have you here.
He then went to talk with the other professors and introduce him to the man, who I knew nothing about. I know that they are friends, but that's all. He greeted them both with a hand-shake an talked with them for a bit. I hear they talk about the Gym leader role he has and since when he has been in this mission for the Pokemon Association. Then I approached them and Prof. Birch introduced us.
-This is Norman- he said- He's a Gym leader and my best friend. Norman this is…
-Green- the man, Norman, said- One of the oldest Pokedex Holders.
-You know him?- asked the professor.
-I believe that everyone knows him Birch, much like your daughter- he said before turning to me- It's nice to meet you Green.
-It's nice to meet a Gym leader, Norman- I said.
-I believe that you will get along well- said Birch- Norman is one of the people who loves battles the most and is very good at them. Your case is pretty similar Green.
-I'm sure of it- I said, I only met him 5 minutes ago and that aura I had sensed before seemed to be very real.
-Now we are going to investigate something about the pyramid and some of the devices that monitored the area-said Birch joining gramps and Prof. Elm in the search- Norman can tell you about everything because he has been here since the beginning and if we need you we will call you immediately.
-Alright- I said while Norman just nodded.
-See you later and keep the wild pokemon out of here- was his last comment before talking to Prof. Elm about something and leaving us there.
-Do you know why they are investigating in this area?- I asked the man- I thought that you were investigating something concerning Tsunamis.
-Yes we did- he said- We started in some far away islands were sudden tsunamis appeared out of the blue. After that the same thing happened in some coasts in the south of here, but very far away. The tsunamis appeared suddenly there too. Not an earthquake took place there.
-Well that's strange…- I said- Sapphire told us something about it, but I never paid real attention.
-Birch asked Prof. Elm's and Oak's help because after finding out that the tsunamis appeared out of nowhere he thought that maybe they were caused by a pokemon- he explained.
-That makes sense, but to cause something like a tsunami you would need something like a group of strong Wailords or a lot of tinier pokemon- I said.
-That's something that Birch said when I asked him what kind of pokemon could cause a tsunami- he laughed- You would be a good professor.
-Yes, but that's highly unlikely to happen- I told him- I'm a Pokedex Holder after all. So what was the conclusion that Prof. Birch and the other scientists took from there?
-They were not able to conclude anything. Using all the methods, they couldn't notice any abnormal things in there - he explained serious- and they couldn't find any group of huge or strong water types moving around the place either so the issue only began to be more and more confusing.
-Then why are you investigating here?- I asked him, anything made sense in this story.
-Well, that's something that is interesting- he said- With the use of the scientific machinery they could find out almost the exact time when the tsunamis took place so that was a start. After a while we received a message from the Pokemon Association scientific department that said that the monitoring in this area had detected some seismic movements and therefore, some earthquakes.
-Yes, but what's important about those?- I asked him- Do the researchers and the Professors think that the tsunamis and those earthquakes in here have some relationship?
-I also think that they are related- he said with his serious tone all along- the epicenter of the earthquakes was located in the same position all the time, 100 m below the earth in a radium of 50m around the pyramid. The incredible fact is that the times the earthquakes and the earthquakes took place are always the same. In every case the tsunami would take place, 1 minute later an earthquake would happen.
-And I assume that this has happened enough times to make you stop thinking about coincidences- I demanded.
-The first could be one, maybe even the second one- he chuckled- but after the tenth, coincidences were not an option.
- So there have been more than 10 earthquakes and tsunamis?
-Twelve- he said.
-So that's it… it's definitely an interesting fact- I asked- What is this place? I've never heard of it and the Academy is not so far in the south.
-I don't know the name of this place, I only know why is not widely known- he said- The fact that the entrance is so tiny and difficult to get through, the thick forest in both sides of the mountains, and the strong pokemon that live here make this a difficult place to get to.
-They sure were too strong to be wild- I commented.
-The Pokemon Association also tried to hide the place because of that facts and that the pyramid could be destroyed if a lot of people would come to visit- he said- For once they thought about something else than making money. Now that we are investigating this facts in here they will want to keep this even a greater secret.
-Fair enough- I said.
After that we approached the 3 people who were now inspecting some marks in the pyramid. There were some different lines. I left Norman talking with Prof. Birch and I climbed the stairs until I reached something that resembled a stone door. That door was in the middle of the pyramid and not on top of it, quite surprising if you ask me. The door also seemed to be made of an entirely different type of material than the rest of the Pyramid. I looked frantically to see something in that rock, but I saw nothing. I sent out Machamp in order to try and move it.
-Machamp use your strength to push that door- I commanded and my four handed pokemon pushed the "door".
After trying for over a minute and me helping him the stone door never moved a millimeter.
-Okay then, we will try to break it- I said to him- Machamp begin with Low kick! Now Karate Chop!- those attacks did nothing to the wall in front of me. I decided to raise the level of my attacks- Use Brick Break and then Cross Chop!
After those tremendous attacks the whole Pyramid trembled, but the door was still in one piece. In fact it didn't even have a single scratch! I heard footsteps from behind and when I turned I saw the other four men looking at what I was doing.
-As expected no one can break this thing- sighed Prof. Birch.
-You had already tried?- I asked them.
-Everyone of the people that had pokemon tried this at least one or twice- he said.
-And don't even bother to try Blast Burn Green- added my grandfather- It seems that they attacked with a lot of pokemon at the same time.
-Plus this material is very resistant to flames - Prof. Elm said after that- it's lunch time don't you think?
-That's right, let's make something in my "kitchen"- said Sapphire's dad and with that the professors descended while Norman approached me.
-You got a very strong Machamp here- he said- what about we let him rest while we have lunch and then we have a friendly battle?
-I like the idea- I said- but I never battle in a friendly way, you know?
-Now it's me who likes the idea- he said- What about a 2 vs. 2 without substitutions?
-Perfect- I said.
-Then it's settled, now we should go help them make the meal- and he descended the stairs while I followed him. Something was telling me that it was going to be some battle.
We ate talking mostly about the investigation in course. I was listening all the time in silence until I got closer to Prof. Birch just as we finished and started to clean the little things we used.
-Do you know who built the pyramid?- I asked him.
-I have an idea- he said- I think that some ancient civilization built it for one of two reasons: to keep what was inside or to mark where it is. I don't have a clue though about what thing is inside. Maybe some kind of treasure.
-Do you know what are those marks, the lines I mean?- I asked.
-I don't have a clue. They remind me of something I've seen once or twice in some books or drawings… but I can't put a finger in it.
-Well, I believe you'll find out pretty soon-I said.
-Green I think that someone is very eager to battle- said gramps then- And if I know you the half that I believe I do… he's not the only one.
-You know me well enough gramps- I said then and I went outside to see Norman standing in one side of the field with a Spinda and Slaking outside. When he saw me he returned both pokemon and smirked.
-Are you and your Machamp ready?- he asked.
-Of course we are- I said- and I am beginning with him. Stand for me Machamp!
-Good choice… go Linoone- he said much to my surprise.
-A normal type against Machamp?- I asked.
-I'm a Normal-type Gym leader so… I'll stick with my Normal-types- he said- I'll still give my best, you know?
-I don't expect any less- I said- now we should start. And I won't go any easier because of my type advantage.
-Then I'll be your referee- said gramps- it's been a while since I saw you in a serious battle Green.
-I believe we will see the battle, too. Let's see how you manage to fight a Dexholder Norman- said Birch.
-Okay then, start!- said the Professor and the atmosphere changed in a second. The air was tense as we all waited to see the rival's command. Then he shouted first.
-Linoone use Agility! Now use Quick Attack!- and with an unbelievable speed the raccoon pokemon crashed towards my fighter. Machamp was able to remain still, though.
-Counter with Karate Chop!
-Sand Attack and then dodge- he yelled and his pokemon was able to obey- Now use Headbutt.
-Dynamic Punch!- and the two attacks collided. Due to the speed the Racoon gained with Agility his attack was more powerful and even made Machamp step back a few steps. Even with that fact, the Dynamic Punch overpowered the Headbutt and sent the raccoon flying, who landed in front of his trainer quite roughly.
-Get up Linoone- he commanded- Now use Pin Missile!
-Use Bulk Up and then charge forward- I told my pokemon who endured the missiles.
-Prepare to use a Slash- he said and then I knew that I was in the lead.
-Cross chop!
-Switch to Fury Swipes!- and the attacks collided. The continuous slashes that the raccoon threw hurt Machamp, but he was able to use Cross Chop who knocked the pokemon out.
-You got a good pokemon there- I told him.
-Norman sent out your next and last pokemon- said the referee.
-Thank you. He was amazing, but he isn't my best one- he said- It's this one! Go Slaking!
-I'll start then Machamp use Karate Chop!- I said.
-Dodge and use Leer!- "great"I thought. He used his only chance to win dodging the attack and with Slaking's ability I would be able to attack openly without problems.
-Cross Chop to finish him!- I said and my pokemon approached its prey.
-Dodge again and use Faint attack!- and surprisingly the pokemon dodged and attacked mine- Now finish this with Body Slam!
And with a tremendous noise the giant ape crashed on top of my fighter pokemon and won the battle. I was quite surprised by the fact that Slaking's ability hadn't prevented him from attacking, but I would not fall twice in the same trap. I was going to use my strongest.
-Green release you last pokemon too- said gramps.
-Alright, your best vs. mine- I said throwing the pokeball on the field- Time to win Charizard!
-Begin with Slash!- he yelled.
-Use Slash too!- and both attacks hit their foe and hurt the other. He had used a double slash so my pokemon was more badly hurt.
-Back out and come here, then use Double Slash again!
-Fly and use Flamethrower!- I told him.
-Hyperbeam!-and the attacks collided, it seemed a draw, but it wouldn't be one. The Hyperbeam started to overpower my Charizard's attack and approached menacingly. I had to act quickly to win so I used my best attack!
-Charizard change the attack to the best!- I said smirking- Use Blast Burn!
And that was it. At first the giant ape tried to hold and he accomplished his duty for about five seconds. After that my Charizard's attack overpowered him completely. When the giant monkey received the super-strong flame beam fainted leaving me to be the winner of this match.
-Slaking is unable to battle! Green is the winner! Congratulations to both of you, that was an amazing battle- said gramps who stood up.
-Indeed it was- agreed Elm.
-It's good to see that both of you are stronger than I remember- said Birch- We should get back to work now.
And they left us there glaring at each other. It wasn't a bad glare, it was only to determine what the other was thinking about the battle. Sometimes words can't even start to describe the feelings held in someone's eyes. He finally smiled and came to me.
-It was a good fight- he said- One of the bests I had in a while.
-Yes it was- I said- You are one of the best Gym leaders I've ever seen, if not the best.
-That's a great compliment coming from you- he said- I can say that if you were a challenger, you would also be one of the bests.
-I'm sure that a very few are able to get pass you- I said- That Slaking is something special.
-Only a few have got my badge- he said- The last one, though, got it just less than two months ago.
-He had to be a very good trainer- I said.
-Yes, my son is much better than me- he said with a proud smirk.
-So it was your son huh?- I asked- I would like to battle him.
-You would have a hard time against him- he said- he is better than me and I could say that as good as you. Maybe even better.
That comment surprised me. It was very rare to meet such a good battler, but for him to say that his son was better than him and maybe better than me, it was surprising to say at least. I don't like to boast myself, but I know that I'm one of the best trainers in the entire world because I and the other Pokedex Holders were trained for that. And we do that to disband criminal organizations. He could've just been praising his son a little too much, but I could see that he wasn't one to lie about those things. Hearing that his son could be a great rival gained my curiosity.
-If that's true I would like to meet him- I said- How old is he?
-He is 15.
-He is like Sapphire and Emerald then- I said- I would like to battle him one day.
-That will be difficult to happen- he said- Oh I know a way, but I don't know if you'll like it.
-What way?- I asked curious.
-I've heard that the Pokemon Association is pressuring you to add the tenth member to the Pokedex Holders- he started- I don't mean that you have to let him enter. You could just make him fight and then decide. If he isn't admitted I believe that he would understand and that he would leave without any problem.
-It's a good way, but I don't know if the others would like the idea- I said, in fact I don't entirely like the idea of "virtually" replace the one who lead us to the end of our captivity- We will talk about it and I'll tell you something.
-I believe that I didn't explain myself correctly Green- he said then- I'm not trying to impose my son to you, even though the fact that I would be overjoyed if he really became one of your group- he explained- It's only a way to let you battle him and to let him battle with one of you.
-It's not a bad idea- I said then- I'll think about it with the other Dexholders and who knows? maybe he even has the chance to fight with Red or Gold too.
-I'm sure that he would like that- said the man- I'll leave the rest to you then. Also you can take your time with the answer. We are not in a hurry or something.
-I'll tell them… in fact we could use to battle some good unknown trainer to know if we're improving or not- I told him.
After this conversation I asked him why his Slaking never used his ability. I was surprised when he said that he used his Spinda to use Skill Swap before the battle and because of that Slaking could attack without problems. We followed the Professors all the afternoon helping them do what they needed to do. They wanted to know the species of pokemon that used to and actually lived in the area. Birch was studying the Pyramid by every side and even digging some holes to discover if we could enter by them. It didn't seem possible, but it was a good idea.
I looked at my Pokegear only to notice that it was nearly 7 p.m. the time I had to go back to the Academy. I came to the people who were too going home for the night and said my goodbyes to them.
-Take care Green and thanks for coming- said my grandfather.
-It was good to have you here- said Elm.
-It was quite interesting too…- I said- I would like to know if you find something about it.
-We'll tell you, don't worry- said Birch then- Can you do me a favor? Give Walo back to Sapphire. I used him when I was researching in the coast or those islands, but I can't use him here.
-I'll give it back tomorrow at the Academy- I said grabbing the pokeball.
-Thanks Green have a good trip back, and good luck with your exams- he said- and with the Battle Royale too.
-Thanks!- and then I turned to Norman- It was nice to meet you Norman, really. I hope we meet again and we battle again. I'll tell you something about the issue we talked about too.
-It was very nice to meet you too- he said offering an early responded handshake- I'm looking forward to meeting you again.
-Same here- I said turning to everyone there hopping on Charizard- It was good to be here. Bye!
And with that simple act we began to fly towards the Academy ending quite an interesting day of research. Too bad that I had to get back t the exams period in the Academy until Thursday.
Thursday 24th of October (2 p.m.)
We were all free. Really free. After finishing the last exam we were supposed to eat something at our partments and then meet in the large tree in the forest part of the park. Today being the last day of exams wasn't the best thing. The best was the day of tomorrow when we would be able to unwind with our favorite hobby and to determine who was the best of the Dexholders, we had been training alone for the last week to prepare better for it apart from the group training we had. Just when I was heading there to meet the Dexholders plus Rub my Pokegear rang the way I know I got a message. After reading it I frowned, a lot. I simply texted the others that I would meet them for dinner later.
I took my Charizard's pokeball and we flew to my apartment to grab something quick to eat. After eating a quick meal based on the pasta I had from yesterday and some fried eggs I went outside and took my Charizard out again and I commanded him to go a place that I didn't want to go right now. The Pokemon Association or more specifically the meeting place where I always meet them when they need to talk to someone of the Pokedex Holders. It's a place which is like an hour of flying away from the Academy. I usually bring either Blue or Red with me when I have to go there to meet the counselors and the Principal, but I assumed that they would want to rest today so I went alone.
I had a bad feeling about that sudden meeting and when I saw Prof. Oak talking in a chair waiting for the meeting to start the feeling only became worse. After I entered the doors opened and I saw the same 3 counselors and the chairman or President of the Pokemon Association. The way they looked at me and the way the my grandfather looked at me assured me completely that whatever they had to say (and I had an idea of what it was) wouldn't be good news for me.
-Thanks for coming so quickly Green- said the chairman- We only sent you the text today because we knew that you were having exams this week so we thought that it would be easier for you to concentrate of them.
-That's very thoughtful of you- I said quite skeptical- What is the reason I'm here?
-We only wanted to talk to you about two subjects- he said.
-The first is?- I asked, I wanted to go back as soon as possible.
-The first is your training- said one of the counselor who said in his right side- Prof. Oak has told us that after the incidents of the 20th of September all nine of you are training harder than what you used to.
-It's true… We noticed that the organization we fought was one that we had never fought before-I started to explain- We also guessed that they were kind of testing our abilities so we had to improve our group and individual skills- I explained.
-That's a very good thought- said the chairman- Have you improved in any way?
-It's difficult to improve when we have battled as much as we did in the past, but yes we improved- I explained- We work better in groups and our pokemon are becoming a little more flexible.
-That's a good thing- he said- We couldn't be more grateful about the job you all nine have done.
The sound of those last words confirmed my hypothesis. The tone he used to talk about told me that he was going to tell me something I wouldn't like to hear. My mood began to sink completely.
-But?- I asked sarcastically.
-That brings us to the second issue we wanted to talk with you- he said- As you probably guessed is about the addition of a tenth member in your group.
-I still don't understand why…- I said- We wiped the floor with those grunts and I'm telling that we have improved since then… We don't need one more member right now.
-Maybe you don't, but as we already told you, the Pokedex is a scientific gadget too- the counselor on the left told me- It's a waste not to use it.
-I know, but the Pokedex it's not just an item- I told them- It's our item. It's the thing that symbolizes our connection. We can't just give it to anyone.
-The Pokedex it's not a thing to symbolize anything- said the other counselor, one that I already knew from our previous talk- It's an item to help you do your job and to help Professors like your grandfather do theirs.
-Green, I'm sorry to tell you this, but we have arrived to a conclusion- said the chairman- The pokedex Holders group has to add a new member, the tenth. And you don't have much time until it happens.
-What?- I asked dumbfounded- You arrived to that conclusion without our opinion?
-Yes- said the always annoying counselor- But you don't have to make a scene like that.
-What do you expect me to do then? To jump into happiness?- I asked angrily- It's us who fight the organizations, not you! What made you think that you could decide this all alone?
-We gave you time to find your companion- said one of them.
-You gave us less than a month and a half- I said- How I'm supposed to find someone that quick?
-We have our problems too, Green-defended the chairman while my grandfather seemed as angry as me- we are pressured as well.
-Pressured?- I asked- You are the Pokemon Association, for Arceus sake! You are the most important entity of the globe. You rule Gym leaders, researchers, and us too. Who can pressure you?
-The proclamation of the new Dexholder is an event that would have a huge impact around the whole planet- he explained- You are the most powerful group of battlers, probably so everyone on the Pokemon world will be interested in it.
-So?
-So we got a lot of important companies interested in sponsoring that event and the ones that would follow it- he said- Those companies are urging us to make the event as soon as possible.
-Money then?- I asked them- You are trading the stability in one of the groups who has to save your ass when the world is in danger for money? That's ridiculous!
-It's not!- said one.
-It is! It's like that tournament you made last Sunday to make money leaving some researchers without protection- I said furious- Money is always your first priority!
-Without money the Pokemon Association wouldn't exist- said another.
-If Team Rocket had beaten our group and the Gym leaders who fought with us the Pokemon Association wouldn't exist either!- I said standing up- And the World would be ruled by them!
-Sit down Green- said the chairman- I still have an offer for the nine of you.
-What kind of offer?
-Tomorrow is the "Battle Royale" in your Academy isn't it- I nodded- Good. It's well known that the students of that Academy are the bests at battling. Talking about averages, I mean. I want you to analyze all the students that when the "Battle Royale" ends will be in the Top 10. We will read your report about them and we will let you test them as you please.
-There's a problem in that- I said- The most likely thing to happen is that the Dexholders are nine of those ten Top 10 battlers.
-Then you will only send a report about that one- he said- I'll warn you about something though. If you refuse to do that we will only announce another tournament to decide who will be that person. And you won't have another choice, but to accept the winner.
-That's not fair- I yelled- This is not the way to pick the perfect companion! We would most likely end with a good battler, but horrible teammate!
-That's nothing you can assure even if it's you who decides who enters the group- he said.
-But…
-No buts, Green… I'm sorry, but it's decided- he said- We only wanted to inform you of those things. You have until the 7th of November to sent a very detailed report of them. If you don't do that… The 2nd Dexholder's Tournament will take place.
And with that they stood up and went out of the room leaving me and Prof. Oak inside. He came to me and put a hand on my shoulder. I was shaking in rage, but I tried to calm down.
-I'm sorry Green, I tried to talk some sense to them, but it was no use- he said.
-It's not your fault- I answered with my fists still clenched- They only have one thing in mind… They only listen to what their wallets want.
-All of you have a point, you know?- he said surprisingly- The Pokemon Association does need money, but that doesn't mean that they have to put the Dexholders in trouble just for it. Even if they don't know about your past- he finished.
-Well, I believe I'm going to go now- I said standing up and taking out my Charizard's Pokeball- thanks gramps.
-When are you going to tell them?- he asked.
-Tomorrow after the "Battle Royale". I don't want to bother them now.- I explained- It's enough with one pissed member of the group.
-Okay Green, have a safe trip home- he said- And try not to think too much about it… Everything is going to come out right.
-It's a very nice thing to say- I said sadly- but difficult to happen. Bye gramps.
And with that we took off. I was thinking about the conversation all the way home. I tried to think about something else, but it was no use… Those thoughts wouldn't leave my head. I had some ideas, but they seemed so unlikely…
Emerald's POV (11 a.m.)
-I'm so nervous…- said Sapphire when we entered the classroom to do our final exam… Math!
-Don't worry, you got the hang of it yesterday- I said to her.
-But it's math we are talking about- she said.
-And it was Geography last week and History yesterday and you did well in both of them- I said- tell her Rub.
Rub sat at the other side of her in this one. He was already preparing for the exam so he got his calculator, pens, and corrector on the table, and he wore his glasses on him. I knew he was listening to us because he was smiling the same way he did in Red's apartment on Sunday. Sapphire was nervous and stressed, math had always been her nightmare subject.
-I don't need to tell her anything…- he said shrugging earning mine and Sapph's attention- she is going to pass anyway. She just needs to calm down and demonstrate what she knows.
With just that comment Sapph seemed to calm down and gain her confidence back. In just a few words Rub had accomplished a thing that I'd been trying to do since I met with her this morning. I have to say though that he talked about it like Sapphire had already passed the exam with a very good grade and that he gave the speech an unknown power.
The confidence she got was that high that not even when the teacher began to place the exams in our desk she was concentrated. With that the exam started.
(Three hours later)
It was finally over! I was waiting for Sapphire to finish his exam outside the classroom along with Rub.. We were commenting on our exams and for what it seemed I had passed easily the exam, even though I made some mistakes in some exercises, which he pointed out. After about 15 minutes a tired Sapphire stepped outside the classroom. We looked to see what her face said, but she talked before we could discover anything.
-Was the result of question number 9, X=52.3?- she asked with hesitation.
-I made a mistake in that one… so I don't know- I said, that was the last question and the one which got the 20% of the grade. The 8 remaining got a 10% each- What about you Rub?
-Well that's the same answer I got- he said with a smile- And I don't believe I made a mistake in that one.
-Yaaaaay!- squealed Sapphire suddenly hugging Rub in happiness.
-Sapphire… I can't breath- he said faking a little.
-Oh, sorry Rub- she said smiling sheepishly scratching the back of her head and with a hint of red in her face.
-N-no problem. I was acting a little anyway- he said with a chuckle
After she backed out and finally let Rub breath freely, we all started to go outside the Academy. Sapphire seemed to be happy with the exam.
-Seems like someone was right- Rub said.
-Yes, seems like the exam wasn't so bad after all- I said- was it Sapph?
-It wasn't easy- she said- but I think I'll pass.
-That's great- Rub said as we arrived to place where our paths diverged- See you later!
-See ya in an hour!- waved Sapphire.
We separated from him and went to our apartment to have some lunch. The plan for the afternoon was very good. After having a quick lunch we would meet in the large tree in the forest part of the Academy and then go to the beach to let our pokemon have some fun while we have fun too. After that we would be going to my apartment to have dinner and then we would be there playing some games, talking and having fun before going to sleep to prepare for the "Battle Royale".
So after having the lunch I went to our meeting place only to find out that Rub, Sapphire, Red, and Yellow were already there. Just after I arrived Blue, Gold, and Crystal also appeared.
-Hey guys!- greeted us Blue- It's finally over!- she squealed hugging and jumping with Sapphire who yelled along with her.
-Hey everyone- said Rub then- How does it feel to be free of exams?
-It feels like heaven!- said Gold pumping his two fists in the air- Where are we going?
-To the beach…- said Crystal- When will you listen when we explain everything?
-Sheesh don't be so serious Super Serious Gal- he said and surprisingly Crystal didn't kick him for the nickname- We have just ended the exams period.
-Well so why don't we start going?- said Red and we all started to go.
-Red, where's Green?- asked Yellow.
-He texted me and said that he would meet us around dinner time- said Blue- Red was with me when he did that so he knew it.
-Oh, okay- She said.
When we arrived at the beach we saw that it was empty, but the day was quite warm so we would be comfortable there for a while. To increase the fun, we all sent out the pokemon we brought pokemon. Rub only sent out his water types, Zuzu and Mimi and the Nana saying that his other pokemon where at home resting from the training that they had to endure the previous day. He just said that he was training them for the Hyper-rank Contests that would take place the next Sunday. While we left the pokemon we got there in the water we began to play volleyball with a net in the beach. There were two teams of three people each. The teams were me, Red and Gold vs. Blue, Crystal, and Yellow. Silver was just resting while revising the scales of his red Gyarados and Sapphire was enjoying her day riding her Wailord, Walo, that Green brought back to her from Prof. Birch while Relo was swimming around the whale pokemon. In fact, all the water types were swimming around Walo, even Zuzu and Mimi, Rub's pokemon. They were swimming in the middle of the others like if they were part of the group. Rub was looking at that sight while grooming his wolf pokemon. I couldn't observe the view much, though because I had a game to win.
Ruby's POV
After grooming Nana I recalled her and I went to play Volleyball with them for a while making a 4 vs. 4 because Silver joined the boys team. After ending the match in a close loss I laid down to relax a little. I wasn't even asleep when I heard low steps from behind and I saw Blue approaching me silently. I opened my eyes just enough to see her extending her arm above my head. I knew what she wanted, but I couldn't let her see it. Not then at least so I turned to my side when she was about to grab my hat, still faking to be asleep. After that I saw her frown and try again by the corner of the eye, but when it seemed that I would have to dodge her hand again a shout saved me.
-What are you doing Blue?- asked Sapphire quite loud, which was the best moment to fake a wake up.
-Uh?- I asked rubbing my eyes and looking at the girls- Hey Blue, Sapphire what do you want?
-No-nothing I was just passing by- said Blue turning to look at the sea.
-Well I was going to ask you if you wanted to take a tour on top of Walo- said Sapphire- He could leave us near the Academy too.
-Good idea! I'm absolutely in- said Blue starting to go to the whale pokemon.
-What about you Rub?- she asked.
-I'll go too- I said- It's not always that I can ride a Wailord..
-You know… It's great to be able to see your face again…- she said suddenly.
-What do you mean? You should be tired of seeing it- I said- We've seen each other at the Academy or studying nearly 24/7 for two weeks.
-Nah- she laughed- and besides, most of the time when we were studying or doing an exam you were wearing your glasses- she said- I don't like glasses… They prevent me from looking at your eyes, for example.
-I don't like them either… but I need them- I said and we stood up and started to walk to the waiting pokemon.
-You know, it's not very common the color of your eyes…- she said.
-I know, I've only met Red that has red eyes like me so far- I said.
-Well, we met another guy that had the same color as Red, only darker- she said sadly- He was Ruby.
-I'm sorry…- I sighed without thinking.
-Don't worry. Let's enjoy the afternoon okay?- she said with a smile when she started to run towards her loved pokemon.
I was lucky that she would've never guessed that what I really meant with that I'm sorry was "I'm sorry that I'm not able to tell you the truth, not yet".
When we jumped on top of her pokemon I was amazed my his size. It was so big that the ten of us could sit there very comfortably. The pokemon was no less than 15 m long and 3 m tall so I believe that it was that big that a grown up men could stand in its mouth, if not two or three of them.
After a tour along the rocky coast that followed the beach until we reached the limits of the Academy we returned all our pokemon and went directly to Emerald's apartment where we would have dinner. When we arrived there we met Green who had arrived not so long ago. He said that he was doing something for Prof. Oak all the afternoon. We began to prepare everything and after setting up the table. Crystal came to me with a game of chess and a challenging smile. I gladly accepted the challenge and we started the game.
After twenty minutes of going back and forth, "killing" pieces of each other without mercy I ended the game. It was a very close victory because I could see that she needed only a few more turns to trap my Ho-oh, but my strategy worked better. She sighed and congratulated me promising a revenge soon. I accepted her challenge again when Blue told us that the meal was almost prepared.
We started to talk about everything and anything at the same time. Some jokes about teachers in the Academy, something about exams, but most of all we talked about what would happen the next day in the event they wanted to compete in the most.
-As I said… I'll give up as soon as it starts- I said- I don't really want to battle. I'll just spend the time training for the coming contests.
-Are you sure? It could be a good opportunity to demonstrate your abilities to the people that are always making fun of you- said Sapphire.
-I think I can live with that…- I shrugged.
She looked to me with a concerned look as if she could see through my façade. I didn't like it one bit when people made fun of me, but as much as I hated it, I preferred that before they saw me in a battle. Sensing the tension in the atmosphere Blue tried to change the subject:
-Green- said Blue- How did the research go?
-You mean the one I did with Prof. Oak, Elm, and Birch?- he asked gaining my attention.
-Yes- said Sapphire- My dad told me that you also met his friend there. The one who is a gym leader. How is he? I'm curious!
-Yes I did- explained Green while I cringed in my seat- his name is Norman and he specializes in Normal-type pokemon. I even battled him.
-Was he strong?- asked Red who is always curious about this issues.
-Yes he was- explained Green who was very serious- For what I saw he is a good and determined man and while battling he is one of the strongest gym leaders I've ever battled. He used some good strategies with his Linoone and mostly his Slaking. Machamp lost to the last one and I even had to use the Blast Burn to win the battle. I guess I could've won without it, but I didn't want to risk anything.
-I would like to battle him- said Red.
-Me too- said Sapphire.
-He said something surprising though…- said Green- He could've been boasting about his son, but he didn't seem to be the type of person to do that- he said and then I began to actually panic.
-What did he say?- asked Silver.
-He said that he had been beaten by his son recently- said Green- he also said that his 15 year old son was probably as good as me at battling, if not better. I know that it's difficult to trust someone who says that he knows someone better at batting than any of us, not just me or Red. In fact I can hardly believe that someone of your age, Emerald and Sapphire, can ever compare to your battling skills, but trust me when I say that if his son really beat him in a Gym battle, he has to be a good opponent.
-Where are you trying to go with that?- asked Blue then.
-What I mean is that he asked if there would be any option to let his son battle some of us- he said much to my amazement and accumulating rage- And I believe that we probably should battle him.
-Why?- asked Emerald- I believe that we can ask a lot other people to battle us.
-It would be good to battle some unknown trainer to test our abilities… and if he beat his father he will be a challenge for us. That much I can assure you.
I had heard enough so I just stood up and grabbed my Pokegear in my hand. Putting my best fake-smile I spoke to them who were startled by my behavior.
-I'm sorry, but my dad texted me saying that he needed me to send him something to his mail account- I said- It's pretty urgent so I need to go home now and do it.
-Are you sure that you have to leave?- asked Crystal- it's not even 10 o'clock.
-I'm sorry, it's not like I want to go, but I have to- I said to them- Thanks for letting me stay with you for the afternoon. I'll see you tomorrow after the "Battle Royale".
-Okay Rub…- said Sapphire- We will go to eat something afterwards. Do you wanna come?
-Sure- I said nodding, my fake-smile still on- then goodbye.
-Bye- yelled them as I stepped out of the apartment and I went to mine.
I dropped my façade. I was beyond furious with my dad. Now that we were starting to act like a proper father and son, he has to ruin it! I felt so betrayed! While walking home I was shaking with both fists clenched. When I arrived home I just got my Pokegear and dialed a number, my dad's number. After a little while I saw his face appear on the tiny screen.
-Hi Ruby, how are things in the Academy?- he asked in a calm voice. Just the sound of his voice made me snap.
-YOU JUST COULDN'T KEEP YOUR MOUTH SHUT ANYMORE, COULD YOU?
So that's it for the 15th one... I wa surprised when I saw the lenght of this one. I always assume that my chapters will be shorter than what they finally are... Oh well, it would be worse in the opposite way, I guess.
This chapter have some important things, so I hope you liked it. Next chapter will foccus in the event taking place in the 25th of October.
-For those who ask when this fic will update... I'll try to update as soon as possible. Also it's a promise that I will update once a week, it's just that with summer vacation I'll probably be more able to finish them for the last days of the week rathen than Modays or Tuesdays as I was used to. When I got that clear I'll tell you.
-Another thing... With my poor description of the place where Green and the Professors where exploring I tried to use a real location of the world. That place is very famous and maybe some of you already guessed. That place tried to ressemble Chichén Itzá which is in Mexico. I'm not from there, but it's a place that my parents visited and I want to go there someday.
I've go nothing more to add except the usual... REVIEW and STAY TUNNED!
