Hi everyone and welcoooome, to the chapter number 26 of this fic.
I know I promised to update sooner, and I'm sorry for that. I mean, I was able to update a week earlier than last time, but it still took me 3 weeks. I really wanted to, but university got in the way quite literally. Being the last days of the semester, anyone would expect to have some groups reports, projects and so on to deliver. What no one would expect (and it never happened before in my case) is to have a final and 3 minor exams just the last week, but said teachers had this super idea. Blame it on them (and on me a little if you want) the delay of the chapter.
As always... it's TIME WITH REVIEWS!
12courtney12: Yeah it's quite hard, but we all knew (kinda) what we would face when we entered so it's not actually a surprise. Yes Ruby hided it for him, it's in his nature to hide things I believe, but for me this is a great thing to play with. I'm glad you liked the chapter and thanks for your Review.
comisure: I'm glad you found that the characters were real. I didn't have much confidence in myself when I started writing the chapter, but well... at the end I was quite pleased with myself, I'm happy to know that I succeded for some people. It makes me happy that you like the chapters so much, but I'll even try to update sooner from now on. Thanl you for reviewing.
RionaCremisi: Yes Romance, and it won't be the last time it appears here. There's some in this chapter, but not even near the amount we had in the last one. Yep they'll meet Norman, but the complete aftermath won't be shown for a while. I wanted to put it in this one, but it was too long. Of course they do, you've got the record of the longest review ever in all fanfiction when you surpassed YOURSELF, who was the owner of the last record. Well I hope thye let you have sugar soon, but don't overdue it XD. I'm happy that you reviewed, thank you my sugar lover reviewer.
Well that's all for TIME WITH REVIEWS. Only 3 this week, but I don't reallly mind. The 3 of them congratulated the chapter so I'm happy for that. Only to remind you that if you didn't like something or the complete chapter you can also say it, just explain why (without it I don't know what to improve so I'll just continue to do things the same way). I just want to grow a little as a writer. Even that I hope that everyone like the chapter as much as I liked to write it.
Today LC5 didn't suggest anything (I believe he's very, very busy).
Disclaimer: Not me or LC5 own Pokemon, yet... Yet because we are going there and asking "politely" (hides bubbles-shooting gun and toy crossbow) for them to hand it to us .
READ and ENJOY!
Chapter 26: The mental note
Tuesday 29th of October
Sapphire's POV (1:50 pm.)
We were in our final hour of the day in my nightmare lesson, maths. The teacher, Miss Martha, was finishing her explanation about 3rd grade equations. It was something quite difficult for me even if my grade in this lesson was one to be proud of. It was just today that we had received our grades via mail and when I saw it I woke Blue up due to my cheer.
Even the fact that it was something that I couldn't understand so well, my mind couldn't focus in the lesson at all. Like what had happened since I entered the school in the morning (before being bombarded by fans all the way until I reached the classroom)and I saw the great banner announcing the ball that would take place next Saturday, my mind was focused in one thing. How to ask Rub to go with me.
I was counting the minutes until the classes finished to go to Blue's apartment, eat and make a plan to finally ask him the question. I'm normally a quite straightforward girl, but in this types of things I believe that I'm no different from the other teenager girls. When my clock showed that it was still 5 minutes early for the class to finish I heard three knocks in the classroom's door. When he was allowed to enter at the door appeared our Pokemon Battles teacher, a tall and built man with black and grey hair who was in his last thirties, Mr. Mike.
-I'm sorry to stop the lesson Martha, but the director asked me to come- he apologized to the woman.
-Oh don't worry Mike…- she told him while adjusting her glasses. She is quite attractive even if she is her forties and every single student in the Academy knows that she has a "secret" crush on him-I was finishing the lesson, so it doesn't matter.
-Thanks- he said in appreciation to her while she just blushed a little and began getting all her things and putting them in her bag- Okay class… I'm just here to inform you all of the events that will take place in the Academy next Saturday. As you know a ball will take place in the Academy. The rules to enter? They're easy- he said chuckling- Everyone has to go there well dressed. I won't say what you have to wear, but please were smart clothes, we're trying to make a fancy ball in here. Also another rule is no pokemon allowed in there.
This sent quite a few gasps in the class. With that Luis stood up.
-Why aren't we allowed to bring them? This is a Pokemon Academy…- he said.
-Well this question was expected- he sighed- You may not know that, but the last ball this Academy organized was 8 years ago. In that one fight started with a jealous student who didn't want another person to dance with his date… Because of that we have to ask you to not to act the same way those people behaved back then. For this reason the council accepted that no pokemon was allowed to come to the academy in that day. I was against it of course, but the majority wins in democracy.
-Is that all?- asked Martha when he finished.
-Nope… As much as didn't want this to be like that… If any student causes any fight or problems using his or her pokemon, said student will face expulsion- he said surprising everyone in the room.
-Isn't that a little too severe for a punishment?- asked Emerald.
-As I said, I never approved of this, but the council approved the rules- he said- now that's for you to decide if you want to go or you don't.
After this a lot of whispers could be heard in the classroom. I didn't really liked to go somewhere without my pokemon, but those were the rules. I may not like them, like I don't like some of the ones that the Association make us follow, but I have no other option than to follow them.
-I would like all the students who are going to go there to raise their hands for me to count- he said then- this isn't anything final, I'm only doing it to have a rough estimation of the amount of people who are willing to go. If you still have to decide don't feel pressured to raise your hand, as I said this is not final. Now who has already decided to attend the ball?
I looked around me to see what the other people in class was going to do. I quickly saw Emerald pack his things without paying attention to the request, because he had his mind set in not going to the ball. It didn't matter who or how many times asked him to go. In fact I couldn't imagine his actual self in a ball, but hey! I was almost certain that I wouldn't go either until… Blue tricked me to ask Rub to go there with me. As the seconds passed some hands began to raise, mostly by pairs. I looked around frantically before I closed my eyes and I rose mine. I heard a gasp from my companions and I guessed that they were all looking at me curiously. I "guessed" that because I was too embarrassed to see it for myself.
After some more moments before I finally opened my eyes and saw Mr. Mike counting all the raised hands with a pleased look on his face. Emerald was sending me a questioning and surprised look, but I just motioned to him that I would explain everything (or almost) when we were on our way to our apartment.
-So we have 43 people in this class…- he said writing in a small notebook in his hand- If we count the ones in the other classes we have almost 220 people in attending. Seeing that I still have to count the 1st and 2nd year classes and the fact that it's only Tuesday, this ball will be a total success in terms of attendance. Thanks for your time and sorry to disturb your class Martha I shall go now.
-No problem Mike- said Martha looking at him shyly before he went out and she turned to us- So with that I expect that everyone of you to handle me the homework I gave you for the class tomorrow. Those exercises are easier than they seem so don't worry… Now have a good afternoon.
With those words she just grabbed all her things and went out of the classroom. I packed all my things too and then, along with Emerald I walked through the corridors and finally out of the school. We chatted about some things while on the corridors, but I felt uneasy all the time. All the people in there was looking at me oddly. It was obvious that the words of me attending the ball had spread, that explained the looks I was getting from them.
-So, why the change of mind?- asked Emerald then bringing me back from my train of thought.
-Huh?- I asked trying to delay the question as much as I could.
-I mean why did you want to go to the ball now?- he said- A few days ago you were just like me, you refused to go…
-Oh, that…- I chuckled nervously- let's say that never try to make fun of Blue. I made a bet with her trying to embarrass her a little, but I lost it. We agreed that if I lost I would have to go to the ball. And that's how it happened.
-You lost a bet? That's all?- he asked then- You could still have refused to go…
-Oh, no I couldn't!- I said nervously- Blue can be very convincing when she wants to.
-I understand that…- he said truthfully, all of us has had our little encounters with our mischievous friend in the past- So what was the bet all about? It had to be something funny for you to make fun of her, wasn't it?
-Th-that's… not important- I said waving my hands in front of my face- What matters is that I lost the bet and now I have to go to the ball- I ended trying my best to sound disappointed.
The truth is that I wasn't disappointed a little bit. I was embarrassed that I had to ask my newest friend to go there with me, but at the same time I was hoping that he would accept. If he finally did then all I had to do is gather my courage to ask the question that could make both of us a little happier, in the best case. Thinking about that we stayed silent for a while before he spoke again.
-So with who are you going there with?- he asked.
-What do you mean?
-C'mon, I'm not the smartest in these things, but even I know that you go to a ball with another person- he said- and let me remind you that I utterly refuse to go. Silver will also refuse and the others are going together. Red with Yellow, Green with Blue and Gold is going with my sis… Crys.
-I'll ask Rub then- I simply said. He had made things very easy for me at that point.
-But he also said that he wouldn't go- he said- are you sure he is going to agree?
-I hope so…- I said truthfully unable hide the hopeful tone while doing that. He caught my tone and I quickly tried to cover my slip- If he doesn't I'll go anyway with our friends… I'm quite sure that with them I'll be able to have a good time too.
-You should ask him this afternoon- he said surprising me-You're the only one who's going to be in the Academy so no stalking from Blue- he said almost laughing- Poor guy.
-What do you mean by that?- I asked quite surprised.
-If you're able to convince him, he will have to endure an entire night in a ball- he said- I don't understand how the others agreed to go, but well… As long as it doesn't affect me, I don't mind.
-You know when we tell Gold that he is immature?- I asked him and he nodded- I believe that you're not so far of him.
-Now I should ask what do you mean with that… but I don't really care- he said when we arrived at his apartment- Bye Sapph we'll see you when we get back at night. I believe it's Red's turn today.
-Yeah it is… I'll see you all there then- I told him- Bye!
With that I finally felt free of the questions my best friend was bombarding me with. As much of a great friend and fighter he is, he has the mind of a child when it comes to anything that involves relationships between two people that goes beyond friendship. He's no dense like Red, he just doesn't care.
As I arrived at Blue's apartment I silently prayed that she wouldn't pursue the issue any further. I was still flustered about talking about it with Emerald even if, thanks Arceus, I could avoid most of the embarrassing matters about the questions he asked. I entered the apartment with the spare key she gave me. When I saw her she was already sitting on her table with two plates full of the food we made last night. They were all set to leave to the meeting at 3 pm. Being half past two she had less than half an hour to get there.
We ate talking about the school and the rules that the people who went to the ball had to follow. The same as me she thought that they were very excessive, but that she had to follow it like everyone. It was when we were in our dessert that she asked the question I didn't want to hear.
-You're not going to chicken out today, are you?- she asked.
-I don't know… I feel nervous right now- I said- I don't want to feel weird around him of all people and I don't want to make things awkward between us.
-You know that this is not going to happen… It never did the previous time, did it?- she asked with an encouraging smile.
-Those times I wasn't going to ask him to be my date at the ball…- I mumbled, but she was able to hear me all the same.
-Have I heard the word "date" in that sentence- she said smirking at my blushing face before turning serious- C'mon, you know what we talked yesterday… Have some faith in yourself. Just act normally and ask him when the time feels okay. I'm so sure that he will agree to come with you.
-I hope so…- I said in the same hopeful tone as before.
-Now I have to go… We'll be seeing your dad there today- she told me- want me to tell him something?
-Well, just explain to him everything that happened with the apartment if he asks. That and tell him that I'll be seeing him on Sunday- I said.
While I was sad to lose an opportunity of seeing him, I felt that it was something that needed to be done. Even that I would be seeing him on Sunday after the ball and we would be able to hang out all day.
-Well so I'll see you at Red's house- she said before wearing her mischievous signature smile- And don't forget that you and I will have a rather long talk after that. You'll have to tell me everything.
-Okay, okay… you know that I'll do it- I told her.
-Perfect, then I'll be going…- she said winking- Good luck Sapphy!
-Th-thanks- I said before she closed the door of her apartment behind her.
I sighed when I saw that she had left and I started to walk inside the apartment. I had no idea how to ask him the question and try as I might nothing good would ever come to my mind. I thought about it sitting on the sofa, on the bed and even while trying to do my homework. Seeing that I wasn't progressing with anything so far I gathered my courage and left the apartment to go to my newest friend's one. Something would come to me while being there, or so I wished.
Gold's POV
We were flying towards the meeting place. I was quite excited because we would be able to see the three professors again. It's true that I wasn't as connected as them as Green, Sapphire or even Crystal, but even that fact every single one of us were very fond of them. Along with Kimberly the 3 professors had been assigned to help us with our training four years ago. While Kimberly was able to teach us the ultimate moves as well as news methods of training our pokemon, they had kept a close eye to our partners. They had studied them, given tips and suggestions about ways to train them and they've told us the major weak points each of our pokemon had so we could work in it.
We all had been working with them for 6 months and due to the familiar proximity of some of us with them we never lost that touch. They were aware of all our problem and adventures and the same could be said from us. We saw them quite often and today was going to be one of those times.
Thinking about that I looked around bored. I saw Green and Blue flying on Charizard and Pidgeot quite near of each other, Aero carrying both Yellow and Red who were chatting casually with Emerald who was riding his Mantine on my right. Just then I saw something that surprised me a little, Blue jumped of Pidgeot only to land on top Charizard just behind Green. What was surprising (not Blue doing anything like that, it wasn't the first time she did the same thing) was that Green only recalled his pokemon without complaining and with a smirk on his face. I decided not to think more about it and I looked to my left. The sight wasn't that amusing by this side. Silver was reading something on his Pokedex, most likely some data of the pokemon we had fought the previous days and Crystal was reading a book. She seemed to be studying it by the look of concentration she had on. I was feeling quite bored so I told Mantaro to get close to the flying type she was using, my Togekiss.
-Hey Super serious gal!- I called for her when I was near enough for her to hear me clearly.
-What do you want Gold?- she said without taking her eyes of the book.
-Can't you stop studying even at a time like this?- I asked her- We have just passed our exams period and you're studying already. Take it easy!
-If I slacked as much as you did I would never do anything good with my life- she said glaring at me for a moment.
-Awww… that hurt Super serious gal!- I said mocking my offended tone- it's just that I feel no need to study right now. We have forever until the next exams.
-Whatever you say Gold… like that you'll never do anything else than battling- she said.
-It's not that I want to do anything else- I told her laughing before looking at her book when I saw some black points printed upon some words- What are your studying?
-It's called Braille- she said.
-Why would you study Braille? It was made for blind people, wasn't it?- I asked- And I don't think that you'll need that in the Academy.
-You know what Braille is?- she asked quite surprised.
-Hey, that really hurts, you know? I know I'm not the smartest person around, but I'm not that stupid- I told her.
-Okay, okay… I'm sorry- she said turning to me- I just never knew that you knew anything about it. And no it's not for the Academy, you remember Jack don't you? The boy in the orphanage?
-Oh I get it… he's the one who's blind, isn't he?- I said remembering the little black haired boy that wears his sunglasses and wristbands wherever he goes- Is he old enough to learn it?
-Not yet… he is only 6, but as soon as we start, the better it will be for him- she told me- But first someone has to learn to be able to teach him. Seeing that neither my mom or Earl know how, I'll be the one to do it.
-Leave it to the one and only Super serious gal to learn something in a matter of days perfectly- I said.
I could see her blushing a little at my compliment so and bury her face more into the book. I laughed a little at that, but a glare from her told me to shut my mouth. Of course, being the guy I am that was the last thing I thought about doing. I started teasing her a little, but I couldn't stop myself from going a little longer. At the end I believe I crossed the line by too long.
-Togetaro… get close to this jerk, please- I heard her say when I was laughing my heart out at her.
As soon as I was about looked at what she was trying to do, I found myself laying face first on top of Mantaro. As I noticed when I tried to get up the back of my head hurt like hell, when I looked towards the others they were the ones laughing at my predicament. Looking at the girl I pissed too much I saw that she was reading through her books angrily. Not wanting to receive another one before we arrived at our destination, I decided not to bother her for the time being, and probably apologizing to her afterwards.
After flying for 30 more minutes or so we arrived at the meeting place. We landed outside the metallic building that was one of the headquarters that the Association has spread around the globe. It's quite a secret place and the in which we trained with Kimberly all those years ago.
I believe the professors also missed us a little, because as soon as we entered the place we were greeted by the 3 professors. From the corner of my eye I saw Green stop just when we entered as if he was surprised, but as soon as he was greeted by his grandfather things went back to normal. After the firsts greeting and while I was talking to Elm about something concerning Aero Green tapped my shoulder.
-Help me gather everyone, there's someone I believe that you'd like to meet- he told me cryptically.
After that I help him gather everyone and then we followed him. He was walking ahead of us towards a man at the other side of the room. He was quite tall, had black hair and wore a dark red sweater with grey pants. When the man saw us approaching him the man stood up and took a few steps in our direction. When we were near enough Green extended his right hand towards the man, I don't know why, but something felt familiar around him.
-It's good to see you again, Norman…- said Green.
-I'll have to add that it's a surprise to see all of you here- he said sounding a little nervous while shaking his hand- but yeah, it's nice.
Then Green turned his face towards us and motioned us to come.
-Guys do you remember the man I told you about. The man I fought with when I went to help gramps with his investigations?- he asked quite rhetorically- This Norman. Norman, they are, from left to right, Re…
-Red, Silver, Gold, Yellow, Blue, Emerald and Crystal. You're all too famous enough to need any kind of introduction- he finished with a smirk-Can I ask what brings you here?
-Some things have happened with an organization and we're here to report them everything that we know about them- answered Red.
-I see you already met my friend Norman- said Prof. Birch coming from behind.
-They've just introduced us- said Norman- but I feel that someone is missing isn't it? Where's your daughter?
-I was going to ask them the same question…- said the professor- she only told me that she couldn't and that Blue would explain for her.
-I'll do it then- she said turning to the brown haired professor, when we saw the counselors and chairman of the Association take they place and asking everyone to sit down to start the meeting- Or not… I'll explain everything after this meeting.
-It's okay, we'll all talk later.
Ruby's POV
I was inside my room grooming my pokemon. I already had lunch so I had almost nothing to do all the afternoon. I too, had copied all the notes that Emerald took the day before so I all I had to keep me occupied was my pokemon. I could've gone to train them, I wasn't as tired as the day before, but I decided not to. Tomorrow I would have to go to the Academy again and life would continue as if nothing had happened so I decided to save my energy for that and the dinner at Red's apartment for dinner.
Now that think about it all of them would already be at their meeting place for what they texted me. They only said that they were requested to meet the Association today and that the meeting would last for a while before they returned to have dinner. While thinking about that I stopped grooming Popo before concentrating myself in my most complex pokemon to groom, Mimi. As I was starting to clean her tail scales I heard some knocks on the door. I silently stood up and went to the door. I opened it only to see Sapphire standing in front of it. I was quite surprised to see her there.
-Sapphire? What are you doing here?- I asked her.
-I-I came to see how you were doing- she said.
-Shouldn't you be with the others at the meeting?- I asked her.
-Yeah, maybe… but they all be able to handle the their questions perfectly- she told me- I didn't feel like going and it won't make a difference.
-Okay, come on in, then- I said to her entering my apartment and she entered after me and closed the door.
I went to the kitchen after that and brought two glasses and some apple juice, one of my favourites. I poured one for me and another for her that she gladly accepted before sipping in it. After the firsts two sips she looked at me again and spoke again.
-So how are you? Are you feeling any better- she asked me- You seem way better than yesterday afternoon.
-I'm better, thanks- I said chuckling a little- I slept quite a lot yesterday and today as well, so I'm quite refreshed.
-So you did what I suggested you to do huh?- she asked me quite happily.
-I wouldn't say suggested, it was more like ordered- I said.
-You needed it. You spent all the afternoon looking for me and talking with me when you should've been in your bed- she said to me.
-Don't worry, I feel almost as good as before the contest- I said.
-I'm glad to hear that- she said- what were you doing?
-I was grooming my pokemon- I said- I was starting with Mimi when you knocked. What are you going to do now?
-What do you mean?
-You came here to see how I was doing and as you see, I'm okay- I explained- Not that I mind having you here, but maybe you got something to do.
-Oh, no I don't really have anything to do actually- she explained- maybe besides our Math homework for tomorrow. I was thinking of spending the afternoon here if you don't mind. I really need help with my homework and like this I can keep a close eye on you. I don't want you to strain yourself.
-I'm not that reckless you know?- I said chuckling- but well, if you want to spend the afternoon here I'm very okay with it. I was quite bored alone and I'll probably have a better time.
With that I finished my glass. Seeing that Sapphire had finished hers too I went to the kitchen with both vases and left them there. I looked at the time and I saw that it was half past 5. Just then something clicked on my mind. The professors would be present in the meeting for what Red had texted me this morning so it was quite strange that Sapphire didn't go, with her father being one of them. From the talks I shared with her I could easily tell that she loved the man with all her heart and that went both ways. I also knew that she didn't see him as often as she wanted so it was strange.
-Sapphire- I called her while coming out of the kitchen and she turned to see me, she was looking at the picture I have with my mom and pokemon again- You really like that photo huh?
-What can I say… it seems to be taken by a professional- she said- all of your pokemon are beautiful, the same as your mom.
-It wasn't a professional who took it- I said- It was my dad. He can be the lover of power and battles, but when something involves my mum, he lets a strange side of him surface.
-For the way you talk about him, I would've never expected it- she said and I felt a little guilty at that.
-I talk as if I hated him, don't I?- I asked her.
-I wouldn't say hate, just that you don't like him that much.
-It's not like that at all. I look up to him a lot, but our ways of seeing things collide- I said- I could never hate him, not even if I wanted to.
-That's quite nice to hear- she said then- In this photo you seem quite happy.
-My mom had just left her job as a lorry driver- I explained-She was going to spend more time at home even if she would still work at a local clothes shop. Before she did I spent some days or even weeks without seeing her. I missed her quite a lot.
-It was a indeed a happy time then- she said admiring the photo again- So what did you want?
-What do you mean?- I asked.
-You called my name in the kitchen so I believe that you wanted to ask me something- she said.
-Right- I said chuckling- I only wanted to know why you decided to come here instead of the meeting. Red told me that your father will be there.
-Oh, that. Well I told you that I wanted to see how you were doing. I'll see him next Sunday and we'll hang out all day so I'm only postponing it until then-she said before sighing soundly- And… I would want to ask you something…- she said shyly.
-What is it?- I asked her quite curious.
-Have you…- she started hesitating a little. Strange.
-Huh?
-Received the math's grade?- she said quite quickly.
-Yeah I did. I was quite pleased with my grade- I answered her- How about you? Did all of your fears come true?
-Nope- she said suddenly very happy- I passed!
-Why I'm not surprised- I told her- And there you were panicking over a simple test.
-It wasn't just a simple test… It was maths- she said- and I got a 61% which is the best grade I got in it in years.
-Congratulations then… but as I said I'm not surprised- I said.
-What about you?- she asked.
-I got a 91%- I said- Seems like helping you also helped me understand it better.
-Wow, that's amazing. But you say it like you didn't know it in the first place- she told me- and it was because of you that I got that grade.
-No need to thank me- I said then- anyone would've done the same.
-Maybe, but not everyone might have succeeded like you did- she said- so thanks for that.
-Don't mention it- I told her while getting up. So what do you say that we do our homework for tomorrow, for the time being. I'm sure that it will be quick.
-That's quite a good idea, in fact I don't think I'll ever finish without your help.
-You overestimate me a little too much- I said grabbing my books and from my desk and going back to the main room where she was seated- Shall we start?
-Sure.
Silver's POV
-And that's all that happened there, sir- ended Blue.
We had been telling them all that had happened at the Contest's hall on Sunday for the previous hour. All of us had told something to the speech. The chairman had been surprised to know that we Red hadn't been the one to save everyone inside. When we asked them what we should do about it they said that they would think about it. The fact that Sapphire wasn't there gave us a good opportunity to tell them about our worries too. As expected, Prof. Birch was quite concerned about her, but we tried to calm him down. Even thought that we told them that it was only a suspicion they ordered us not to leave her alone until all the issue is solved. For the first time in quite a while we gladly agreed to their request.
-Well, I believe that this is everything that we wanted to ask you- said the chairman- Do you have any questions?
-I have- I said- I know that we weren't able to save everyone in there… Can you tell us how many people were injured or… dead?
-Are you sure that you want to know that?- asked a counselor.
-We are… we discussed it on our way and we believe that we should know it from the source- said Green- because it's impossible that the news don't say anything about it.
-It really makes sense- said the chairman asking the man at his right to hand him a paper- The amount of people inside the building at the peak of occupation, being the last performance, was of 498 people. Right now are 151 injured people in the hospitals with minor problems like, broken bones, and intoxication due to the smoke. About 26 people are critically injured even if there's only one that is not clear if she'll survive or not. That makes 177 injured people. This don't includes the ones who already checked out if the hospital before you came here now.
-And?- asked Red as we all braced ourselves for the last piece of information.
-19... 16 people perished on the spot due to the fire, smoke or collapsing pillars or parts of the ceiling. The other 3 died in the hospital the first night due to the severe burns they received- he said.
- Look I know that right now, this is hard - said Prof. Oak addressing to us- but don't beat yourselves up. Just think about what the numbers would be if you never were there to help all the people.
-The Professor is right- said the chairman- we are more than proud of you all. You really saved the day there. Now this issue is done. You may do whatever you want now. It's the Professors turn now. You can leave or stay here.
-Okay- I said and all the teenagers stood up and left through the door into the hall.
I looked around the hall to see our companions quite depressed. In fact I was too. It was quite understandable for us to feel like that, but what Prof. Oak and the chairman had said was very true.
-You should all wear some happier faces- said a voice that came from the door from where we had just emerged- the way I see things it was thanks to the 9 of you that almost 200 people or even more are alive now. I know that doesn't hide the fact that almost 20 died in there, but you shouldn't start doubting your skills because of that. I don't think any team of less than 20 people would've been able to organize themselves and do such a perfect job.
-That quite nice to hear Norman- said Yellow in a low voice, for some reason she wasn't shy around him, as if she noted that it was a man in which we could trust.
-It's not nice, Yellow. It's simply the truth- he said in a tone that reminded me of someone, but I couldn't put a finger in it.
-What are you doing her Norman?- asked Green- Didn't they need you inside?
-I just came here because Birch told me that he was coming and we could use it to rest a little from the investigation- he said- I didn't even know that you were coming. Right now they are discussing the discoveries they made at the Landbirth Pyramid.
-Landbirth Pyramid?- asked Emerald unsure.
-You know about it?- asked Green.
-I remember that name from something, but I don't know what it is…- he said- it won't be that important I guess. What is it?
-Is the place where the 3 professors are investigating right now- said Crystal- so what kind of things have you found out?
-I believe I'll leave that to the professors, they were quite surprised for some things they found- he explained walking towards us- They will be the ones to tell you don't worry.
-Seems fair- said Red- so what do we do now?
-I would propose a battle, but I don't know if anyone would agree- said Norman- I haven't had a great opponent since you, Green battled with me two weeks ago.
-In fact we would like to talk to you about that- said Green motioning us to come by his side- We talked about the offer you made me that day, the one in which you suggested that we fought your son in order to prove ourselves.
-I remember it, what did you decide?- he asked.
-One of us will battle you now seeing that you suggested the fight- said Green- proving ourselves against a Gym leader should be good to don't you think?
-Seems good to me- said Norman accepting the challenge- so who's going to battle me now? I know that Yellow will refuse, but what about the others?
-How did you know I would refuse?- asked Yellow surprised.
-It's well- I've been told that you don't like to battle that much.
-It's not that I don't like to battle, I just try to avoid hurting pokemon as much as I can- she said.
-You're a Normal type Gym leader aren't you?- asked Gold- How's your badge?
Just then he put his right hand in his pocket and when he took it out a shining metallic object was in it. It had to circles with a darker shade of brown border than the center. Those two circles where joined by a thin bat the same color as the borders.
-This is it. It's called the Balance badge- he explained- When I give this badge to the ones who beat me, I acknowledge they choice of pokemon as well as the training they did with them.
-What do you mean with that?- asked Crystal.
-I'll explain later because right now I would be giving way more explanation than the one you need to know- he said- so who will be my rival?
-I am- I said- Follow me we know a place to battle in here- I told him.
-Yeah this was the place where we trained just after we were made the Dexholders- said Blue while opening the gate towards one of the great battlefields.
Once we were there they all took a sit while both me and Norman walked to our positions in the field. When we arrived we looked at Blue who would be our referee.
-The rules are simple… it'll be a 2 vs. 2 without substitutions, okay?- she said and we all nodded- then… START!
-Go Ursaring!/ Your turn Vigoroth!- we both shouted at unison while the bear and the ape pokemon landed on the ground in front of the trainers.
Red's POV
-So you challenge a Normal type Gym leader with a Normal type, huh?- said Norman- I like your guts. Vigoroth Fury Swipes.
-Ursaring meet them with Slash!
-Stop it and run around him in circled with Quick attack!
-Use strength to grab him!
The start of the battle had been hectic. The two of them were commanding their pokemon at an amazing speed, changing tactics quickly. One thing was clear though, those pokemon couldn't be more different from each other. The ape was agile and quick while the Ursaring was slow and tough. It would be good to know who was going to win.
-Start using Uproar in circles- he said- catch the pokemon in the circle of waves.
And just like that the Silver's pokemon was caught inside the attack. It was clear that he was suffering quite a lot of damage, but Silver remained impassive at that. He seemed to be thinking about what to do next. Then he spoke.
-Ursaring use Rest!- he commanded- Now use Snore to disperse the waves!
-Seems like he found out a way to attack and recover correctly this time- said Green.
-His pokemon's endurance has always been his triumph card, let's see what Norman's going to do.
-Vigoroth get close and use Slash with both hands!- he said when the barrier of sound was destroyed from Ursaring's attacks- Now get out, Now!
He did it just in time because after slashing the bear for the 2nd time this one opened his eyes and used Fire puch just where the Vigoroth was a moment ago.
-You dodge very quickly- said Silver- let's see how you try to do it now… Faint attack!- and the bear disappeared.- then grab it with Strenght!
-Quick Vigoroth use Fury Swipes behind you!
But it was a wrong move… While first appeared behind the ape it just ducked under the attack and stroke on him in the back. Then using his monstrous strength began crushing the ape in a very tight embrace. Then Norman did something that surprised everyone at the arena.
-Vigoroth use Thunderbolt!- he said and covering himself in electricity it wasn't long before Ursaring was receiving a large amount of volts in his body. The attack was so strong that could rival Pika in matters of power. If it wasn't for Ursaring's defense it would be already out.
-Throw him into the ground Ursaring, finish it- said a calm Silver after this it was clear that if that attack struck it would be over for the Gym leader's pokemon.
As expected the bear pokemon was able to throw him towards the ground leaving a little cloud of dust to remain in the centre of the battlefield. Blue was ready to ask Norman to return his pokemon and send his next one before, Norman again surprised everyone.
-Inversion Vigoroth!- he said and just then Ursaring was sent towards the ground by a red glowing fist. The rest of his body was shining in a orange color.
-How?- asked Emerald from his seat- He had him there.
-The Orange glow can only mean that Norman whispered to Vigoroth to use Endure just before toughing the ground- Gold said- Then Inversion did the rest of the job.
-It was a good move Norman- said Silver- but you won't get past the next one! Go Weavile!
-I've got no time to think about strategies now- said Norman- Get close with Quick attack!
-Meet him with one of yours!- said Silver and the pokemon dashed with even more speed towards him.
-Flamethrower!- growled Norman and a stream of fire was launched towards the ice type.
-Faint attack!- exclaimed Silver.
The attack finished his foe immediately. It wasn't able to dodge the fire completely, but after a split second the Weasel was behind Vigoroth launching the attack directly on his back. Without any option to dodge the pokemon was out. Norman thanked his pokemon and returned it. Then he took 2 pokeballs and opened them revealing an Spinda and a Slaking. For a moment Spinda's eyes glowed a pink color and just after that Norman thanked him and returned it.
-This is going to be interesting- said Green by my side.
-Why?- I asked him- and what did he do to with his Spinda?
-You'll see, but be ready for a big surprise- he said- I hope Silver is. I used Charizard against this pokemon.
-So Slaking huh?- said Silver- then I'm going to start. Weavile start using Icy wind!
-Leer!- he said and I saw Silver's expression to change to one of surprise. I had the same, he had wasted his opportunity.
-That was your mistake…- sighed Silver, while Norman smiled. This smile reminded me the one Rub made when he fooled those people back in the Contest Hall, I had a bad feeling about it- Get close to him and use Ice Punch!
-Uproar in front of you- said Norman smirking- Maximum power!
That surprised everyone there, except Green. The giant ape opened his mouth to launch an extreme attack that sent the Weasel flying towards the ground. The pokemon had received quite the damage due to the Icy wind, but could battle perfectly.
-Get close to him Slaking use Slash- said Norman seeing an opening.
-Cover his fists with Icy Wind- said Silver- Now round around him using Agility!
The pokemon was able to reduce the damage that the glowing claws were going to cause him receiving only the punch of two blocks of ice. The fact that Weavile is an Ice type reduced the effectiveness of the attack. Then obeying his trainer the pokemon encircled the ape running at an almost impossible speed.
-Use Yawn Slaking- commanded Norman, a good choice.
-Screech Weavile!- said Silver fighting sound with sound- Now Double Team!
-Slaking use Slack Off!
-Don't let him Weavile use Icy wind and Blizzard at the same time!-With that Weavile, who was still spinning, surrounded the ape pokemon in a icy tornado- close the Tornado!
With that Weavile began running closer and closer to Norman's pokemon making him be in quite a bad position. Norman was not as calm as before while seeing the tornado closing around his pokemon, who couldn't finish recovering completely. After 5 seconds the tornado close completely. That's when Norman decide to attack again.
-Hyperbeam in front of you!- he said and an orange beam broke through the icy tornado. A second later the beam ceased for a second before appearing again launching Weavile across the battlefield. It was clear that the attack had stroke in a very close range causing great damage. Our total attention turned towards the tornado at the other side of the battlefield. The tornado had disappeared and just a thin cloud of dust remained there. It was clear that the Slaking was still standing, but no one could see the state he was in.
When it cleared we were all surprised at what we saw. Slaking was standing, but his condition was terrible. He had various parts of the body covered with ice. His right arm, left shoulder, the back of his head and his right knee were all covered in ice. With that we looked at the place where Weavile had been a second ago since he got up with much difficulty, only to find that he had vanished. Another attack like the last one and he would be undoubtedly be out.
-I give up- said Norman.
-What?- I asked surprised.
-Slaking is unable to attack now due to using Hyperbeam, and is too weak to endure another hit with all this ice over him. It's a great performance to endure the ones he has received -he said turning towards Silver- Tell your Weavile to get out of the ground.
-How did you know that he would be there?- said Silver.
-Because that's something that my son would've done- he said walking towards his rival- you were great at that battle, the battle against Green and this one are two of the best I've had in the past year.
-It was a magnificent fight- said Gold- You're one of the bests Gym leaders I've seen battle.
-Don't make a mistake Gold- I said- he is the best Gym leader I've seen so far. And that has to count because Brock, Misty, and Flannery were very, very good.
-That really means a lot coming from you- said Norman shaking Silver's hand.
-It was indeed a good fight Norman- said Prof. Birch's voice- I only saw the last part of the battle, but I believe that Silver had a rough time against you. It's quite the thing to battle them at this level.
-So I get that your meeting has already finished?- asked Green at the professors who were standing behind us at the stands. It had been such an impressive battle, that we never noticed them there.
-Yeah we did- said Prof. Elm- so what do you think about we go have a drink and we explain everything that has happened in the last days? I believe that we all have a lot to catch up.
-Sure- said Blue, who just before had been congratulating his brother for the great battle he did.
Just like that we headed to the centre's cafeteria. We all sat at a huge round table that was there. We were 12 people inside all chatting with each other about meaningless stuff. Just then, like an alarm clock had switched we all got to the important matters.
Green's POV
I had been sitting for the past hour next to Blue and Norman talking about the research in the Pyramid. I have to say that some of the things that they discovered there were very interesting. Some of them seemed so fake that made it a very difficult thing to accept, but coming from the people it was coming from I knew that it would be true. After that I talked about another issue that we all had been discussing for the past days with all of us except Sapphire. After those issues were cleared, Prof. Birch spoke to Blue.
-All that this is cleared- he said smiling- I believe that Blue owes us an explanation…
-Oh, right. You want to know why she isn't here today- said Blue- She's got a few stressing days and we believed that we could afford to come without her today. Dealing with the Association is something that can be quite stressful and we wanted Sapphire to be out of this problems. She also said that she was sad that she wouldn't see you today, but she said that she would spend all the day with you next Sunday.
-I'm glad to hear that- he said- tell her I'm looking forward to it.
- Plus like that we could express our fears to you and the Association, with her it would've been impossible- I added then.
-Are you sure about that?-asked in concern Prof. Birch- How do you know?
-We have a very bad feeling about it, but we still don't know for sure- I explained- We just believe it's better to be prepared.
-But there's something I don't understand. If she really is targeted by that Organization… why did you leave her alone at the Academy?
-We still don't know if it's true or not- said Green- besides she is not alone right now.
-But all of you are here now!- he said- How come she's not alone?
-She will be spending the afternoon with Rub, that new guy that uses to hang out with us now- said Blue with a smile- She said that she would take care of him.
-Take care of him?- asked the brown haired man curious. Norman also turned to pay attention- What do you mean?
-Well, you remember that we went to the Contest's hall to cheer for him before the incident?- Blue explained and he nodded- Well, this boy was caught in the whole incident.
-WHAT?- I heard several voices shout, one was Prof. Birch, and I believe that the other two professors were surprised as well. Even Norman had its eyes very wide.
-When the fire started he was still inside the building- I explained- It passed almost an hour until we saw him again. We found him after all the mess was over coming out of a huge hole. The building had already crumbled when he got out, so we thought that he had been trapped inside. It was… quite a miracle that he survived.
-He was sent to the hospital for the night, but now he's at his apartment feeling a lot better - said Emerald from behind- Sapphire was very upset about that. Like all of us, but they're great friends for the short time they've know each other.
-C-can you excuse me?- said Norman standing up- It's quite late and I should head home now. I'll be sure to tell my son your decision- he said to me before attracting all the attention- Everyone, it's been a pleasure to meet all of you and even battle some of you. If things are great we'll see each other next week and believe me when I say that I'm really looking forward to that.
-It's been a pleasure too Norman- said Red for all of us.
-We'll see you tomorrow at the Pyramid- said Prof. Oak.
-Sure, bye- he said getting out of the door.
Something seemed quite odd with him. On the way out I could see his hand shaking and sweating. Something was happening with the steeled-nerves Gym leader.
Sapphire's POV
It's been more than two hours since I arrived at Rub's apartment. Thinking only a little I could say that so far the afternoon had been great. We've talked about various things, laughed (sometimes quite a lot) at some of them, we've almost finished our math's homework … a good time indeed. Not a single moment of awkwardness for my part and him being nice to me as always (a little teasing or making fun of each other between friends count in being nice too).
There was only one "but" in all that happened this afternoon. I STILL HAD TO ASK HIM THE QUESTION! I had tried just as I came, but, much to my dismay, I chickened out. I found myself looking again at that picture, but this time Rub didn't catch me looking at it. He asked before why I looked at it so much… Well I like it a lot. The pokemon are beautiful, his mom looks great in it and most of all… him. He had such a bright smile, such a genuine smile that I could count with the fingers of one hand the amount of times I've seen it in his face. It was really the only place where I could only find a smile in his face, not sorrowful eyes, or fake smiles like the ones he is so used to wear in front of the people that almost bully him. One thing that makes me happy though is that when around us, this fake smiles have been reducing a lot, like he finally feels at ease with us.
-Sapphire?- I hear him ask breaking my train of thought- You were zoning out.
-Oh sorry, I was just thinking of how to solve the last exercise- I lied before focusing my mind on it.
-It's not the most difficult one in there- he said then folding his notebook- he had already finished.
-Mmmm… Can it be just the same as the one I struggled with earlier?- I asked seeing the similarities between them.
-Yep, just like that one- he said.
With that I just tried to focus on what I had done to do that one correctly, when the procedure came to my mind. After two minutes of writing and pressing the numbers in my calculator I finally arrived at the final result. I looked at Rub who was looking at me all the time I was doing it and then he patted my back and smiled.
-That's the one-he said- the exact same result as me.
-Pheww… that were quite a lot of exercises- I said stretching myself after standing up- I thought they would never end.
-But they did- said Rub stretching himself too- You want something to eat?
-Nope I'm good now, thanks- I told him- plus in about an hour Red and the others will tell us that they have arrived.
-It's true… so what do you want to do for now?- he asked me.
-Why don't you show me all of your pokemon?- she said- I've only met Ruru and Popo so far. Well and Zuzu at the lake and when he got you out of that hole.
-Sure, why not… - he said when he entered his room and came back with all of his pokeballs.
He opened the one by one revealing first the three I already knew. The three pokemon greeted me in their own ways. Popo positioned herself on my bandana for a while while I scratched her head just like I did when I met her. Zuzu came over me and shook my hand before retreating on the sofa where he fell asleep almost immediately. Ruru then sat on my lap happily for a while.
After that Rub let out his other Pokemon. Mimi was a bit shy and kept her distance even if she never stopped looking at me. Coco and Nana were much more friendly. They both came to me as soon as the pokeball opened. Nana moved her tail quickly while I scratched her between the ears before laying in front of his trainer. Coco rubbed herself on my legs before going to play with Mimi.
-Is anything wrong?- he asked me surprisingly.
-What?
-Ruru's horns are glowing- he said and it was true. Said pokemon was looking at me too- they only do that when she feels great emotion nearby.
-Well…- I said before I found that this might be the right time to ask him. While her horns were glowing I couldn't avoid the question so couldn't chicken out like before- yeah I'm thinking about something.
-What is it?- he asked some concern in his voice.
-Well you do know that Gold and Crystal are going to the ball together, don't you?- he nodded at that- and Red and Yellow are going together too. The same as Green and Blue for what she told me.
-Well it was quite expected that- he said- it's quite obvious that they like each other.
-Yeah well… it's just that Blue kinda… forced me to tag along- I said then hiding part of the truth, I also wanted to go with Rub.
-She did?- he said amused- Did you lose a bet with her or did she just force you like she tried to do with Silver?
-I lost a bet- I said doing the same as before.
-Thought so… - he said then and I looked at him quite surprised- I'm saying this because you totally refused when she proposed it. It was an option seeing how Blue is with those things.
-Yeah it is- I said chuckling a little- the fact is that I don't know how to dance at all…
-It's not so difficult to learn- he said- it's quite simple.
-Did you go to balls back at your school?- I asked him surprised.
-No- he said then- they organized one every semester, but I never went.
-Why?
-Because no one would even imagine to go there with me- he said- I was the school's most avoided person. No one would go with such a weirdo.
-Then how do you know how to dance?- I asked him.
-My mom taught me how to- he said- sometimes I would accompany her to the classes where my dad couldn't go with her due to his work at the Gym. She's a great dancer.
-I still don't understand why no one would want to go with you there- I said a little bit too truthfully.
-I came to accept that no one would even ask me too- he said- I was a weirdo to them because of my hobbies and tastes so I was alone then. No one wanted to be friends with me so I just spend all of those times at home having dinner with my family. Just like I'll be doing next Saturday.
-Well, that's inconvenient then- I sighed and he looked at me with a questioning look- I- I was going to ask you… if you wa-wanted to come with me there.
-What?
-I wanted to ask you if you wanted to come with me this Saturday- I said again trying to calm my nerves a little.
-You want to? Why?
-Because you're my friend and almost all of us will be there- I said- and I really want you there, you're not a weirdo for me. You're just Rub, my friend- "but if you come I'll ask you if you want to be something more than that" I thought for myself.
-Are you sure?- he asked quite dumbfounded- I really don't want to be any nuisance.
-Oh please Rub, you've never been one. You've helped me a lot of times and we all have great times hanging out together- I said telling the entire truth this time- Plus there will be times in there that they will all be with their dates. If you come I'll have a better time for sure. We all will.
-Okay, I get it- he said- I just wanted to make sure that you didn't do that out of pity.
-I can assure ththat it's not the case- I said- so what? Will you come with me? With us?
-Sure! If you want me to I'll be there- he said smiling before thinking about something- Now I've got to think of where to find a tux… I don't have anyone of my size.
I had to fight to suppress the cheer I was going to leave out. I couldn't stop the smile that crept to my face though, neither I could the heat for rising around my cheeks. I became so flustered that I had to get out f his sight if I wanted to avoid him seeing me like that.
-I have to use the bathroom Rub- I told him handing him his Kirlia- I'll be back in a minute.
-Sure don't worry- he said grabbing her and I stood up.
I made my way towards the bathroom as calmly as I could before I entered. Just as I closed the door I let out a long sigh and immediately jumped throwing a fist into the air. I looked at the mirror to see myself smiling. I knew that I still had to do the greatest step, but right now I could only be happy that he accepted to come. "I'll tell him his Saturday" I thought.
Ruby's POV
I saw her going into the bathroom. When she entered I let out a long sigh. During our last conversation I never doubted that they wanted me in there. I was just making a decision in my mind. I didn't feel quite prepared yet, but I couldn't make them wait any more. I couldn't make her wait any longer. This was a chance that I wasn't going to waste. I looked at the calendar for the date I had set in my mind. When I found it I made a mental note on it:
-Day: Saturday 2nd of November.
-Time: Between 11 pm and 1 am.
-Notes: This is the day I will tell her who I really am.
And this is the end of the 26th chapter.
I finally got it done and it's extremely large, even for me. I wanted to put some explanations in here than the ones I was able to, but seeing how long it was I decided to leave it for the next. Those things include some type of conversation between an enraged dad and his son (though I'm so sure you totally expected that). Also next chapter will be quite different from the ones we got so far, you'll understand when you see it.
I'm very sure that I'll be able to update before the holidays end, but after that I don't really know. As I've said I've got my finals scampered for all January and the first days of February, so I'll have to fins the time between them to write.
As always, I hope you all liked the chapter and I've got to thank you all again.
I've got nothing more to say so... REVIEW and STAY TUNNED!
