AN: Here is a nice long 16k chapter! Even gave you guys a little surprise towards the end for your patience with me so far. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon or any of the characters. Just the random plot bunnies that my mind creates.
Chapter Warnings: Language, violence, mentions of torture, probably some other stuff I can't think of off the top of my head
Pairing: Ash x Gary
Chapter 38 - Worth
Three months. Three months trapped in this fucking mountain. Three months of hate filled glares from random ass people. Three months of anger simmering in his belly whenever the Ruby Elder ventures too close to his partner.
No. His husband. Well...fake husband. Not that these buffoons can tell the difference anyway. After spending so much time with Ash over the years, he knows everything he could possibly know about the raven. Way more than any man would learn about his spouse over a lifetime. Which makes the ruse that much more convincing.
They grew up together. They trained together. Fought for their lives together. Everything they did, it was always the two of them. It wasn't hard to convince the others. Especially with Ash able to blush on command like he does. They just had to throw in a few hand-holding and whispered moments every now and then. If the Draconids couldn't tell they were whispering about how to get the fuck out of here instead of sweet nothings, than it's their own damn fault.
But even his supposed relationship with their "Chosen One" did nothing to curb their hatred towards him. Although it had at least diminished whenever Ash was around. The clan took to Ash almost immediately after their initial wariness had passed. And believe it or not, it was all thanks to a handful of children.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 1
Ash awakes to the happy screech of various bird pokemon as they take to the sky for their morning hunt. He carefully flexes and relaxes his muscles one by one.
He smiles in lazy happiness as his body finally responds like it's supposed to. No random bouts of dizziness or sudden soreness. No gut-wrenching pain that attacks his frame occasionally much to the worry of his still sleeping partner.
Your husband. His mind immediately supplies. Ash shakes the thought away quickly. No. Spouses love each other as lovers should. Not as a brother. All of this is just acting to him.
Corded arms wrap tighter around his waist, pulling him into the brunet's warm chest as Gary mumbles in his sleep.
This means nothing. Don't let it get to you.
But it's too late. His heart clenches painfully. Wanting this to be real more than anything else. He would gladly even stay here and be their Savior if it meant Gary would actually look at him with love in his eyes. Not this fake nonsense they have to play to keep Gary alive. Because no clan member would dare execute the husband of the potential King.
And to keep Aidan away...or try to anyway.
As if his thoughts summoned the man to him, the Ruby Elder sweeps into their room unannounced. Because Arceus forbid that the two soldiers have a room that had an actual lock on the door.
Can't have us causing trouble which apparently means we also have no privacy.
Aidan smiles coyly at him when the man notices that Ash is already awake. Ash shivers involuntarily at the penetrating gaze. He has done everything he could possibly think of to dissuade the man from pursuing him besides outright punching him in the face whenever one of Aidan's hands wanders a bit too far.
I mean, honestly. How can someone literally shrug off repeated refusals to join him in bed? How can he even ASK that of someone who is supposedly happily married anyway?
The tension in the room quickly fades as the young redhead, Alli, quickly walks into the room after Aidan. Her arms loaded with a large tray filled with various plates of food. Ash can't stop the pleased hum leaving his mouth as mouth-watering scents fill the cave, waking Gary behind him.
He steadily ignores her blushing cheeks as she struggles to look away from the two men sharing a bed before her. Dropping a large plate onto his lap, he digs into the succulent meal as Aidan prattles away about their schedule for the day as has been his custom the past few days.
Upon hearing that Ash has finally recovered, he urges them to finish eating so he can escort them to their lessons. Well, the children's lessons that they will be sitting in on, much to Gary's ire.
A half hour later, Aidan leaves them hovering near a group of about 25 children sitting on the grass next to the pond. The woman perching on a small stool in front of the horde of kids stops mid-sentence to stare at them curiously. Brown hair, almost as short as theirs, has seemingly been arranged into a stylish pixie cut at one point. However, tuffs of hair stick out at random points around the woman's head. Like she just went for a long flight and had no desire to try to fix the unruly mess the wind created.
Warm blue eyes, the color of the summer sky, twinkle in amusement at their hesitation. As the children's voices raise in volume at the unexpected intrusion, she turns back to them and quiets them gently. Her soft voice somehow able to calm the mass of squirming little bodies almost instantaneously.
With a hesitant smile, Ash sits down at the edge of the small semi-circle around their new teacher. The woman returns with her own brilliant smile immediately.
"Hello. I heard I was going to be getting some new students soon but I wasn't expecting two grown men to show up." Another flash of amusement sparkles in her eyes at her gentle teasing. The children giggle in response.
He chuckles good-naturedly. "Well, we're here to learn if you'll have us." He responds. Feeling a weight in his lap, he looks down in complete bewilderment to find a pair of large, brown eyes staring at him curiously.
Without fear. Without hatred or anger. Just full of childlike wonder and curiosity at the new people in front of them. The exact opposite of the other Draconids.
Two little girls, twins based on their matching silver hair and green dresses, push the small brunet boy in his lap over so they can squeeze into the small space as well. Looking to his right, he finds Gary in a similar predicament.
Ash laughs at his partner's obvious nervousness around the kids. His hands spread out helplessly as two boys bounce around in his lap while a redheaded girl attempts to climb onto his back.
I guess we haven't really been around too many kids outside of the Academy. And the kids there certainly weren't as carefree and happy as these kids are.
The rest of the kids crowd around them in excitement. Pressing in on all sides in an attempt to at least touch their new classmates.
His gaze drifts back to the woman as the kids finally settle down. A soft smile graces her young face causing a familiar sense of peace to wash through him. Something that he hasn't felt in a long, long time. The calming presence of a mother.
She reaches down into the bag next to her and pulls out two slim books. Leaning forward, she passes them to him and Gary. Ash carefully wraps his free arm around the three kids in his lap so he can better examine the gift.
Bound in black leather, shiny purple letters stick out clearly on the front. The History of Our World: How the Legendary Pokemon Created the Earth by Dr. Whiteflame.
Curious, he opens the book and stiffens as the kids invading his lap immediately take over. Flipping the pages of the book they are obviously familiar with. Each chapter starts out with beautiful illustrations of the legendary pokemon before going into detail about each one. The children around him press in closer and point out their favorites as the pages fly by.
Is this the book they use for lessons? Seems it bit advanced for little kids if you ask me.
Ash glances up towards the teacher once more as her voice calms the children once more. Sitting in her lap rests another book lying open to the first chapter, angled so the children can see the colorful picture. Ash stiffens as the familiar image draws his gaze.
Long pointed feet. Tapered horns sprouting from its head. Elongated white neck. A golden circle with radiating spikes wraps around its middle.
Arceus. The Alpha pokemon. The legendary pokemon that brought him back from the brink of death. The one who gave him the scar on his chest that marked him as the Chosen One. AKA the one destined to save "his people and Arceus' children."
A blast of water from his left breaks his stare. Brown orbs widen in shock as a Dragonite bursts from the small pond in a torrent of water. With a mighty flap of its small wings, water drops are flung in all directions as it dries itself.
Ash flinches as a drop lands on his cheek.
The children squeal in delight as the specks of water land on a few of them. Not enough to get any of them wet but enough to briefly entertain them and draw their attention.
The dragon lands behind the woman on the stool. It's only then that Ash finally notices the mark on her hand. A red heart. The woman pats the dragon fondly as it stretches out in the sunlight behind her before turning back to her class. A large red marking staining its massive yellow hand. The same exact shade and shape as the Draconid sitting before them.
"Forgive me. I haven't introduced myself yet. My name is Carys, the Scarlet Heart Rider."
Ash can only stare at the small woman in shock. She couldn't have been more than 5'2" tall yet she was one of the Dragon Riders that have caused the League so much grief? This gentle teacher who looked as if she couldn't hurt a Cutiefly even if she was ordered to?
The woman only smiles softly at him, seemingly able to read his shock and confusion. "Not all Riders are warriors. My fiancé and I tend to stay here when the others go off to fight since I take care of the children and he raises the dragons instead of training all day long. We stay to protect those left behind. Their last line of defense if this place is ever discovered."
Ash can only nod at the Rider, not wanting to ask for more details with the kids around since he wasn't sure how much of the War they have been exposed to.
They deserve to be carefree and smiling. They deserve to have a childhood. He will protect these smiling faces that have taken so quickly to them.
And with that, Carys began the lesson.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 2
The past week, they began to fall into a routine. Ash and him would wake up to Aidan bursting into their room at some ungodly hour to drag them off to breakfast. Then, they would make their way over to the pond for their morning lessons with the brats or a nearby large cave if the weather was bad.
They have taken an odd role in the class. As old as they were, they would help Carys watch over and entertain the kids during playtime. However, they were still her students and were expected to pay attention and do their homework just like the little squirts that insist on always sitting on his lap whenever they can. Granted, she did give them way harder questions and essays to write but it's still weird.
After morning lessons, they would join the kids for lunch. Sometimes their parents would wander in to see how they were doing. Their initial glares have already begun to lose their heat as they listened to all the exciting tales their kids created about their new classmates. It takes everything Gary has not to roll his eyes at the useless information pouring out of their mouths that somehow seems to amuse them so much. But if it gets the older generation off his back, he can live with it.
Ash and him break away from the daycare after lunch. They spend hours training out in a small clearing they found in the trees behind the stage next to the Council Hall. Much to his increasing frustration, they're forced to use thick sticks they found on the ground to train with since the Draconids still don't trust them enough to give them back their weapons.
Sweaty and sore, they make their way east towards the cave that the pokemon tend to stay in when they aren't wandering around helping with various chores or training with their trainers. Growls and explosions echo from within as the pokemon battle and train with each other to pass the time.
Ragna had cornered them after lunch the day before and informed them that they would be able to start training their pokemon again. As long as a Rider or Elder was present to watch over them. Their weapons were still off limits though.
Their pokemon rush to greet them when they enter. He can tell his pokemon are restless. They aren't allowed to leave the cave or train with the others. Not until Gary solves the damn riddle. Aidan's orders.
Damn crazy ass bastard.
They spent hours going over the cryptic message Aidan left them with that first night they spent in their cave. Besides Ash coming back from the brink of death, they couldn't think of anything that Ash had done that Gary hadn't.
But even that seemed wrong. If all the Riders have to prove their worth in order to take the Trial, there is no way all of them have come back from the dead. Especially if they are somehow saved by a legendary pokemon. The odds of that just don't add up.
They were missing something. Something important and they didn't know what it was.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 5
After a month of Carys' classes, she had nothing left to teach them. They already had a basic education from being raised in the military so she could only teach them about the clan and how the dragons descended from the legendary pokemon to keep the peace in their bloody, war-torn past.
According to Carys, that's also why dragon type pokemon are so strong. Legendary blood courses strong through their veins. It isn't diluted like some of the other, more common pokemon types. But that is also why their birth rate is so low.
The large amount of energy they can harness, the power of their ancestors, is too much for the small, untrained baby pokemon to handle. Carys didn't go into detail but apparently the baby dragon's death is extremely traumatic to witness and exceedingly dangerous for anyone nearby. Especially other baby dragons. That's why, over the generations, only one egg is laid per clutch during mating season. IF the egg is conceived at all.
And that's where the Riders come into play. Once a generation, one of the Draconids' Trial candidates is reborn as a Rider with the power to tame this uncontrollable energy in the baby dragons. He or she is then made Dragon Keeper. Carys then explained that the current Keeper is her fiancé, Aitor, the Russet Egg Rider.
Whenever a dragon hatches, the Dragon Keeper uses his power that he gained from bonding with his Dragonair to seal away most of the hatchling's power and thus saving its life. However, it prevents them from eventually evolving from Dragonair to Dragonite. That's why the Trials were created.
The Trials gave grown Dragonairs the chance to evolve into their final stage. However, they are only able to do so once the seal is removed. And the only way to destroy such a powerful seal is to form an even stronger bond with a human. The bond cancels out the seal without causing any lasting damage to the pokemon or newly bonded human. For the most part anyway.
The dragons, while wishing to finally have access to their true power, are extremely wary of humans that approach them to bond. Because once the bond has formed, the Dragonair's life force is tied to their Rider. If the Rider is to die in battle or from illness, the pokemon dies as well. However, being the weaker species to begin with, the Rider receives enhanced abilities from his or her new partner. Enhanced strength, faster reflexes, elongated life-span and, if the bond is strong enough, maybe even a special power specific to that Rider. Like how his mother had an incredible ability to treat even the worst injuries and illnesses. Ones that would've spelled out instant death. Such is the power of the Rider-dragon bond.
Thus, the Dragonairs battle those who prove their worth to take the Trial. No help is allowed, be it human or pokemon. The Trial candidates must prove their strength to the Dragonair that chooses to fight them. If he or she succeeds, the bond is formed. If not, the Dragonair will kill them to prevent its fellow dragons from possibly bonding and dying due to that human's weakness.
Simple as that. Prove your worth to earn the right to take the Trial. Survive the Trial and you gain a lifelong partner with almost god-like power as well as enhanced strength of your own. If you fail, you die.
But no one will tell them HOW the Riders prove their worth. "All part of the challenge" they say. But they just disregard any guess he and Gary make as completely ridiculous.
Luckily, to distract them from their growing frustration, Carys asked them to help take the kids on a mini field trip to the Dragon's Den since the other Riders and Elders were going to be busy with the remaining Riders who are returning from their missions for a monthly meeting.
Hopefully, they could find some clues in the Den.
Ash thus finds himself carrying the two twins that have taken a liking to him as well as another little boy on his back. They walk slowly towards the large cave on the northeast end of the crater where the pokemon reside.
His partner sulks by his side as he was manipulated moments ago to carry a few kids causing Ash to chuckle. A light glare is thrown his way in response. Gary has never been good with kids, even though they tend to flock to him, amused as they are by his surliness. Through their innocent eyes, they can see right through his rough demeanor to the kind soul hiding deep inside just as Ash can. And it amuses them to no end how Gary keeps up his tough guy act for the sake of his pride.
Pikachu and Eevee race around in front of them followed by a trail of screaming boys and girls trying to catch the two agile pokemon. Thankfully, their pokemon never lead them far enough away that they lose track of them. Tauros, Dodrio, Arcanine and Nidoking trail behind them, carrying the young toddlers who can't manage the long walk to the cave on their own.
Upon arriving at the wide entrance, Ash blinks in surprise as Carys leads them to a small tunnel off to the right. One that he has never even noticed the countless times he has walked the dark passage before to visit his pokemon.
Her torch illuminates the small passage, barely five feet across. The children, quiet for once, quickly line up single file behind their teacher. Ash and Gary call back the larger pokemon and bring up the rear to make sure no one strays.
It isn't long before they are stepping out into an enormous cavern. Roughly the same size that houses all the other pokemon and lit by the same blue crystals. In the center sits a massive lake taking up over half of the available space.
The crystal clear water reflects the light from the torches and crystals back to them. Creating strange swirling patterns on its mirrored surface. Ash glances around in awe at the sacred place. Almost certain that his expression is identical to the ones on the children's and his partner's faces.
A small ripple catches his attention. Ash blinks in shock at the multitude of sleek blue heads peeking out at them from the surface of the lake. Small white fins, almost resembling wings, fold back on either side of their head. Red and purple eyes catch the dancing firelight, giving the impression of glittering jewels floating on top of the water. Sharp horns project out from the larger sized heads.
They've arrived at the Dragon's Den.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Gary starts as Carys' soft voice fills the cavern. "Kids, say hello to the Dratini and Dragonair. But not too loud, the baby Dratini haven't met any humans besides Aitor yet. We don't want to frighten them. They won't play with us then."
The children mumble a quiet hello as they bounce in place impatiently. Wanting to play with the baby pokemon but not wanting to scare them away before they get the chance.
Carys' earlier lecture flows through his mind again. "Newly sealed Dratini are raised by Dragonair and the Dragon Keeper until they have better control of their remaining power. While they don't have nearly the same amount of power as they would have if it wasn't sealed, it's still dangerous. Once they learned control, we introduce them to the children. That way they grow up together and increases the chance of a successful bond or, at the very least, hopefully prevents death in the event of failure."
"Dragonites have a higher chance of successful hatches since Dragonair offspring tend to be more unstable. But since the Dragonites are paired with Riders and off doing missions most of the time, they aren't around much. So the dragons grew a strong pack mentality where all of the older Dragonairs look after the younger generation together instead of just family units protecting their own. So while the Dragonairs know we are no threat, they can't help their protective instincts. So as long as we don't intimidate them, they won't attack us."
A gust of air slams through the cave as Carys' Dragonite swoops in from a tunnel up above them. The affectionate headbutt the powerful pokemon gives its Rider to ask for a scratch behind its antenna is apparently enough to convince the other dragon pokemon to come forward.
The sheer size of them leaves Gary breathless. Even the baby Dratini are almost 5 and a half feet long with some of the bigger ones pushing 6 feet. Their evolved form reaching almost 13 feet long. The Dragonairs' long necks tower over them as they slither forward. Propelled by the swaying movements of their lower bodies.
There's only about 10 Dratini and 15 or so Dragonair but the brats don't seem to mind as they surge forward to play with the dragon pokemon. Gary can't help the small smile that fights its way onto his face at the happy cries of the kids and pokemon.
Gary meanders over to where Carys is sitting on a large rock nearby with her Dragonite. He leans against the rock next to Carys. On the opposite side of the dragon pokemon. It growls softly in greeting before looking back to watch the class and its kin interacting.
While her Dragonite has done nothing threatening since he met the pokemon, he still can't help but be wary of the titan. Even if it's probably one of the most gentle pokemon he has ever met if the way it treats the kids during playtime is anything to go by. The kind creature fits well with Carys' quiet and caring personality. It makes sense that they are bonded together.
However, the more time he spends with the two, the more confused he becomes. Despite all the dark looks he still receives and Aidan bothering the hell out of them, he is actually beginning to enjoy his time here. Which pisses him off even further.
But with no way to direct his anger, he's at an impasse. He knows that what the Elders told him was true. He can tell from the way the Draconids interact with each other. They didn't destroy his home and family. They are the protectors of the Earth, not the destroyers.
But then, if not them, then who? The League? He was raised as a soldier. Even from all the horror stories he has heard from these people and the conclusions he and Ash have come to on their own, he still can't see them as ruthless tyrants hell-bent on destruction as they pave their way to more power.
But who else could it be? There are no other options. So it must be the League.
I have to break into the League's records somehow. If they did order the attack on Pallet, than they would have recorded it somewhere. If they did, I will bring them down. Every last one of them.
His simmering anger sizzles out as tinkling laughter cuts through his dark thoughts. He struggles to keep his mask in place as children race by inches away from him. All of them overflowing with joy at the rare chance to play with new pokemon.
He watches in amused silence as Ash frolics through the lake's shallows. Laughing heartily as kids and Dratini chase after him. Several other children were in deeper water riding around on the backs of the dragon pokemon. Thankfully, Carys had them wear their swimsuits and brought plenty of towels. He was not looking forward to a bunch of wet brats hanging off of him later.
His partner rushes back to shore and grabs a small pebble before skipping it across the water. It bounces several times across the mirror like surface before disappearing to the depths below.
Immediately, the two Dratini that were following their small group vanish into the water. Several seconds pass in stunned silence as the kids look around for their new playmates in confusion.
With a small splash, they resurface. One of the Dratini holding the rock Ash threw. The raven squats down and stretches his hand out. The dragon pokemon tilts it head curiously before dropping the stone into his palm.
Ash beckons one of the quieter kids forward with an encouraging smile stretched out over his handsome face. The little boy, one of the smallest ones in the class, stares back at Ash from the edge of the lake before shaking his head quickly. Either scared of the water or the pokemon, Gary can't tell.
His partner rises and approaches the boy. Squatting down to his level, Gary watches Ash hand over the stone and whisper quietly to the student. The smile never leaves Ash's face as he takes the boy's empty hand and gently pulls him out into the water. Once the water reaches the boy's waist, Ash nudges him forward.
With a nervous look back at Ash, the boy takes another step forward before chucking the rock as far as his little arm could throw. Seemingly seconds later, a small Dratini pops up several feet from the boy holding the rock in its mouth. The dragon type inches closer causing the boy to stiffen. As if debating whether to stay and let the pokemon approach him or retreat back to the safety behind Ash's lean legs peeking out from his dark shorts.
The Dratini makes the choice for him as it slowly nudges his hand and drops the pebble into it before nuzzling his empty hand and cooing. A bright smile blooms on the shy boy's face at the action.
The other children cheer and find rocks of their own. Chucking them into the water as they begin their new game. The Dratini and a few of the Dragonair happily joining in on the fun.
Gary watches Ash's smile turned wistful as the raven rests a hand on his belt. Over the spot Gary knew that Ash kept Pupitar's pokeball. No doubt remembering the many games he created to train and bond with the tiny rock skin pokemon.
"You're extremely lucky you know." Carys states softly as they watch the scene unfold. "To have a partner like that by your side. He'll be a good King. Well loved by everyone. And I know you will do everything in your power to protect him."
Gary doesn't respond. He doesn't know what to say to her. He knows he will protect Ash with his life and that people are drawn to his partner's caring and upbeat nature, himself included. But that's all useless if they don't survive the Trial. So he just stares blankly at the side of her face as she watches her young students.
She turns to smile softly at him. Amusement and, to his bewilderment, pride shining in her pale blue orbs. "Go join your husband. I think he's found something."
Turning quickly, Gary hops off the rock as he focuses on Ash once again squatting in the water surrounded by a few children. Sliding his sandals off, he wades into the water to join them. Peering over his partner's shoulder, green eyes narrowing at the object sitting innocently in Ash's hand.
The children around them are all talking over each other but he tunes them out to examine the rock that captured Ash's attention so thoroughly. At least he thought it was a stone at first.
It's only about an inch and a half wide in diameter but instead of the smooth surface of a rock eroded away by its watery home, its faceted edges form an octagon. Looking straight down, it could almost be mistaken for a cut diamond if it wasn't gray. The same shade as the other pebbles sitting innocently at their feet. The shiny surface reflects the firelight at multiple angles reflecting red light onto the clear water. It isn't until Ash turns it over that he recognizes it for what it is. Its smooth back with two small notches to place a pin if needed giving it away.
"That's a Boulder Badge." Gary mutters quietly.
An excited squeal from one of the kids draws his attention away from the badge. Every single brat in the class is crowded around them now. All yelling at each other trying to see the "treasure" in Ash's hand.
The young Dratini slither around in excitement. Responding to the elevated energy levels the kids are releasing. Gary's eyes widen as the dragon types dive down into the lake. Breaking the still surface of the water as they return with mouths full of various glittering objects.
Gym badges. Every single one of them.
A steady warmth grows at his side as Carys approaches with a torch. She raises it high, casting the brilliant, flickering light over the surface of the lake. As the ripples slowly fade away, the water begins to glow. Swirls of every color blurring together on the surface. Creating a kaleidoscope of rainbows ever changing as the firelight dances over the water.
The entire bottom of the lake is covered in gym badges. It has to be for this many colors to reflect back to the surface.
"The Dragon's Treasure." Carys soft voice floats over to them. Gary meets her gaze briefly and is floored by the look on her face. Pleading. Anxious. As if she was trying to tell him something but couldn't get the words out.
He glances from the badges to her face. Futilely trying to decipher her expression but can't find the connection. Ash just stares at the badge in his hand. Obviously having no idea why it was there.
Trainers just don't throw out their badges. Especially not into a lake. They spend years training in order to get enough badges to challenge the Pokemon League. Badges are a trainer's pride and joy. What they use to showcase their strength against others and prove they are worthy to challenge the Elite-
His mind grinds to an abrupt halt as he feels his green orbs widen. The whole scene seems to freeze in front of him as his mind whirls from one thought to another.
Prove their worth...their strength...
Gary locks onto Pikachu sitting on the edge of the lake. Its long yellow ears twitching in response to all the commotion.
"Ash has already proven his worth and strength." Aidan's voice echoes eerily in his mind. Gary struggles to connect the dots as his gaze slowly drifts back to the now standing raven.
Trainers spend years catching and raising pokemon.
They challenge gyms to prove their strength and ability to raise strong pokemon. If they succeed, they are gifted a gym badge.
Dragon type pokemon are the one of the strongest types.
Dratinis' powers are sealed upon birth. Only bonding with a human can unleash their abilities.
Dragonairs fight Trail-goers after they prove their worth in order to test the human on its own. To see if the human is strong enough to be bonded to itself.
Dragons tend to horde shiny things to line their nests.
Badges are highly sought after on the black market since some are made of precious stones.
Green orbs lock with concerned brown. He can feel a warm hand on his shoulder. Gently shaking him. Ash's voice asking if he is alright. But everything sounds muffled. He can barely even see with how focused he was.
The only image he can see with any sort of definition is the memory of Ash sliding a newly won Thunder Badge into his pocket.
Ash has a Thunder Badge.
Ash has proven his worth.
The badges are the key to take the Trial.
"It's the badges." Gary whispers in awe as everything rushes back into focus. His hands fly to Ash's shoulder as Gary shakes him in astonishment. He huffs in annoyance at the confusion and worry overtaking Ash's face.
His head whips to the side to stare at Carys. "The badges. They're the key to taking the Trial aren't they? What Trial candidates use to prove their worth. Just like how trainers collect badges to challenge the Pokemon League. Ash has a Thunder Badge. That's why he has proven his worth already and I haven't isn't it?" He spurts out quickly.
Ash stiffens under his fingers but Gary ignores him as he studies the Rider's face. She stares back impassively at him. The previous worry that was on her face mere moments ago has completely disappeared.
Gary growls in annoyance as the woman refuses to respond to his question. He releases his partner and turns to storm over to her but stops at the small pressure that suddenly appears around his legs.
His anger fades away instantaneously as his green orbs lock onto four children wrapped around his legs. Their small faces buried into his thighs to hide their tears. But he can still see their small shoulders shaking. Their small frames vibrating against them as they try to hold in their sobs.
"Don't be mad at Miss Carys!" One of the boys next to Ash cries out. "We weren't allowed to tell you! It's the rules! And Miss Carys says we can't break the rules!"
Gary looks back over to the Rider once more. The anxiety has returned full force to the woman's face. Is that why she looks so nervous? Because she wasn't allowed to bring us here and give us a clue to Aidan's riddle? Is she going to be punished for this?
A warm hand slips into his causing all remain tension to slowly dissipate from his body. Pushing away the frown on his face with its gentle heat. Squaring his shoulders, he salutes the Rider in front of him.
"Thank you for your help. We are in your debt." Gary states crisply.
Carys' shock at the action fades away quickly. Replaced with her warm smile. No longer worried or anxious. Just like how it's supposed to be.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 6
The Elders refuse to see them. The past week the leaders of the Dragon Riders remained cooped up in the Council Hall discussing things that Gary and him aren't privy to.
Even Aidan wasn't visiting them daily anymore. That alone betraying how serious the situation was if it pulled the flirty Rider away from embarrassing the hell out of him.
He also couldn't find Carys. Ash hasn't seen the kind teacher in a few days. They went to visit her the day after their field trip to the Dragon's Den but the female Rider was not at the small pond.
Instead they found her fiancé struggling to control the screaming children. Ash can only describe the man as mousey. Slim in build with messy light brown hair. Round glasses perch on a small nose that threaten to fall off as he darts around trying to stop the students from misbehaving.
Wide brown orbs lock onto them as soon as he spins to follow several of the children darting for them. The overwhelmed panic and stress easily overtaking the older man's face.
Glancing a look over at Gary, he nodded once. They quickly stepped forward and took control of the class within minutes. Sitting them in a circle to play Ducklett, Ducklett, Swanna as they calmed down the flustered Rider.
Upon closer inspection, Ash can see why he was named the Russet Egg Rider. A large, oval shaped mark was visible on his neck. Reddish brown in color with streaks of red swirling the surface. The mark easily resembled a pokemon egg.
The Rider thanked them over and over again for their help. Explaining how Carys was pulled away to assist the Elders with something and left him in charge of the class. However, the children walked all over his quiet and shy nature leading to widespread mayhem.
It also didn't help that the dragons were exceedingly restless. Sensing the rising tension of the base the longer the Elders hide away in their building. And a restless dragon is a dangerous dragon.
Smiling widely at the stressed man, Ash offered to watch over the class for the next few days so Aitor could get back to his job as Dragon Keeper. The man was reluctant to agree at first which was understandable. Many of the other Draconids still glared at them with distrust when they didn't think Ash or Gary were looking. At least they will chat with them if asked a question though.
Ash was quick to point out that by being in the class for a month, all of the kids were already familiar with them. While Gary and him might not be able to offer much in the way of school teaching, they can at least teach them a bit about pokemon. And to work out their boundless young energy with various drills and games.
Hook, line and sinker.
With one last grateful glance, Aitor practically hugged them in relief before sprinting away as a loud boom echoed throughout the crater. Suspiciously sounding as it came in the same direction as the Dragon's Den.
Ash turned smugly to face his partner. Blinking in confusion at the irritated green eyes boring into him. Clearly upset at being stuck with the screaming children, now running around playing tag, for the next few days.
Gary's anger quickly faded to frustration once Ash explained that they couldn't do anything until the Elders emerged from their Council Hall anyway. So they might as well pay Carys back by watching the kids since she risked her well being by helping them solve Aidan's riddle.
Thus, Ash finds himself standing across from Gary on the makeshift pokemon battle field they made using stones they had the children gather from the edge of the pond. The kids spread out on either side as his pokemon and Gary's lightly sparred against each other. Careful not to move too quickly or release any moves that might injure the spectators.
Gary and him take turns commenting on the various battles. Explaining type advantages and special moves that each pokemon knew. He honestly didn't know if any of them were paying attention to what they were saying but at least the kids had enough mind to not rush out into the middle of the field and into danger.
To Ash's surprise, some parents and other Draconids showed up some time later after they finished their chores for the day. Watching the battles and listening intently to their explanations. Ash answered all questions eagerly. Smiling disarmingly to put the on-edge adults at ease.
After two hours of light battling, he could tell the kids were getting restless. Nodding at his partner, he called out a break for playtime. The children rushed forward eagerly. Determined to play with their new favorite pokemon.
Gary was by his side seconds later. Teasing him about how he was able to manipulate the kids so easily. Just like an experienced mother.
Reaching out to punch the snickering brunet in the shoulder, he freezes as his eyes lock with several of the adults who were slowly approaching them. Grinning quickly, he slides his hands behind his back and waited for them to approach.
To his surprise, they asked a wide variety of questions they felt were too detailed to ask in front of the kids. The topics ranging anywhere from basic care to training techniques to what to do during the various species' mating seasons.
Ash was even more surprised when a group of Draconids their age invited them, both of them, to begin training with them in the mornings. Honestly, if Ash really thought about it, it was a brilliant idea on their part. This way, the Draconids will learn how the League raises its soldiers and pokemon and will be able to build a strong counter-offensive for when they officially go to war.
Things were looking up. It finally looks like the Draconids saw that Gary was not completely at fault for his actions. They were finally beginning to forgive him. The seeds of trust were being planted.
Hopefully, they will be given the chance to sprout.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 7
After a week away, Carys finally returned. She won't tell him what dragged her away for so long and begs Ash not to pressure her about it. It was Dragon Rider business and only the Captains, those that successfully passed their Trial and bonded with a dragon, are allowed to know the details.
Ash nods stiffly. Accepting the female Rider's wishes even though he was burning up with curiosity over the cause of the rising tension. Carys smiles gratefully before going into a lengthy thank you for watching over the children.
Apparently, a few of the parents had approached her about the amazing pokemon lessons her "substitute teachers" were conducting for the past couple of days. Aitor then told her of how he and Gary had rescued him from the utter madness that resulted in him trying to take care of kids instead of his beloved dragons
"It's really quite amazing," Carys muses, lips pulling up into a loving smile. "How he can be so amazing with pokemon and absolutely hopeless with kids. I guess opposites attract after all." Her tinkling laugh echoes over the water of the pond.
Ash can only laugh along with the Scarlet Heart Rider as her infectious good mood spreads through him. His chuckles fall away. Leaving a smile on his face as she begins to speak once more.
"I love the idea of teaching the kids about pokemon through experience by the way. No wonder both you and your husband are so amazing at controlling pokemon. Your teams are incredibly well-trained."
Ash only shrugs at her compliment as he gently tosses a pebble into the water. "That's just how we were raised. For basically as long as I can remember, we were taught how to tame pokemon and make them and ourselves stronger. Specific species we need for certain missions and which species are the fiercest battlers. Exactly where to shoot or slice to land a fatal blow…'
He trails off as he raises his hand. Thumb pointing up with his pointer finger out in a rough imitation to his missing Beretta. Aiming at a leaf floating on the water, he jerks his hand back in recoil as he makes a quiet gunshot noise.
Turning back to his left, he smiles sadly at the woman next to him. Carys reaches out to pull him into a soft hug.
"I'm so sorry Ash. I don't know what it's like to have your childhood taken from you like that but I do know you will be happy here. Everyone else is finally getting their heads out of their caves and realizing just how lovely the both of you are." Ash smiles softly and returns the hug but doesn't respond. After a slight pause, Carys continues.
"I know my words don't mean much, but I think you will make a great King." Ash stiffens slightly at her words and the sudden change of topic. She pulls away to meet his gaze. Chocolate brown locking with sky blue. "You are phenomenal with the kids and all of the pokemon flock to you. Following your orders even if you aren't their trainer. Especially the dragons. Everyone is drawn to you. You will make a fantastic leader. I just know it."
He drops his gaze to the rippling water in front of him. Every insecurity and hesitation that has blossomed since he first heard the Prophecy in the Council Hall rushes through him.
There's no way that I will be a great King. The only thing I'm good at is pokemon battles. Gary is the one who got the highest scores in military law and battle strategy. A king is supposed to lead his people into battle. To be able to change an entire army's formation at a moment's notice. I can't plan ahead like he can. Maybe the Prophecy is about Gary instead. It can't be about me.
He jumps in shock when a small hand presses against his heart. "You're wrong. You will make a great King. Gary may have superior intellect on some things but he will be your Knight. Your Champion. He will be given superior control over the Draconids in battle. But ultimately, he still will defer to you. His partner and King. The people need someone to rally behind. Someone to follow. Not another strict warlord. They willfollow only you."
Ash just stares at her blankly. His mouth opens and closes like a Magikarp as he struggles to regain his mental footing. It's like she read my mind...
"But...how can you…?" He trails off softly as she pulls back the sleeve of her long sleeve brown shirt. The large red heart now sticking out proudly in the noontide sunlight.
"How much do you know of the bond marks Ash?" Carys questions. Her head tilting to the side as she studies him as he stares at the back of her hand.
"I mean," Ash begins haltingly, glancing between Carys' hand and her sky blue eyes. "Anibal explained a little bit when he introduced himself. How the Riders are reborn with a named based on the color and shape of the Mark. He said the Elders would explain more later but they never did." He trails off as her head tilts up in thought. Light blue orbs staring at the clouds far above them.
A soft hum drifts through the air. "Well if the Elders want to explain everything, then I won't go into too much detail. But you remember my lectures on how the bonds are formed right?"
Blue orbs drift back down to glance at him. Ash nods as her lessons float through his mind.
"For as long as I can remember, I have always been able to sense a person's emotions to an extent. It wasn't that strong when I was younger. Just enough that I could tell when someone was lying or when they were trying to hold back tears behind a smile. But that changed when I bonded with my Dragonair."
She softly stroked the red mark as she continued. "You know, during my Trial, I thought I was going to fail almost immediately. None of the Dragonairs approached me to battle. They just ignored my presence all together. I was about to leave when one of the older Dragonairs blocked my way. She was one of the larger dragons that usually stayed away from the field trips with the children to watch the baby Dratinis who couldn't control their power yet. I only saw her a few times before. All from a distance away though."
Carys eyes glaze over in memory. Almost gray in color as she relived the Trial in her mind. Her voice slipping into the soft cadence she uses whenever she tells stories to the little kids.
"It was the strangest thing. I was fully expecting having to fight for my life. But that Dragonair just slowly took my badge and tossed it into the lake. And then she just leaned forward and pressed her snout against my forehead. Next thing I knew, the bond mark had formed on my hand and Dragonair was evolving into Dragonite right in front of me."
Her eyes clear as she stops stroking her hand and meets his gaze once more. Seeing the question on his face, she quickly speaks up again.
"I have no idea why she chose not to battle me. But all I know is that I can now feel even the slightest shift of emotion from the most stoic of people. I can even project emotions onto others. Make them feel what I feel. It's why I was chosen to lead any interrogations." Ash blinks in surprise at the sudden change of conversation but Carys doesn't seem to notice.
Or chooses not to comment on it. If she is able to feel emotions that strongly, she must've known that what she said surprised me. But still. Interrogator? I didn't think she had it in her to do what needed to be done in interrogations.
Ash is brought from his musings and memories of their prisoner back on the SS Anne when the Rider next to him shivers. She pulls her knees up to her chest as she wraps her arms tight around her torso. As if to ward off the unpleasantness of the times she spent abusing others to gain the slightest bit of information.
"I hate it. Being able to feel all of that pain and suffering as I tortured those people. Absorbing their agony and sending it back tenfold. Their anguish ripping through me like claws. But I am the only one who can tell if someone is lying with certainty. With me in charge, I get answers that we need faster which means less pain for them. So I bear with it the best I can. That's one of the reasons why I volunteered to watch the children. Their happy-go-lucky nature is soothing. And it is easy for me to calm them down if they get too rowdy obviously."
They slip into a tense silence as her words sit between them. Carys curls tighter into herself as if expecting some sort of violence from him. Ash can't bear to see the normally calm and caring woman so distraught.
He slides an arm around her back and tugs her into his side. Fully content to let his warmth sink into her to calm her down as they sit in silence. Watching the peaceful scenery around them.
With a heavy sigh, her body slowly unwinds. Letting her feet slide into the refreshing water once more.
"Sorry. I got a little side-tracked." Ash just shakes his head and rubs her back comfortingly. He doesn't mind. Sometimes people just need to let the darkness out for the light to come back in. Carys is no exception.
"Where did I leave off?" She questions. Before Ash can even open his mouth to respond, she's speaking again.
"Right. So I don't know why she didn't battle me but my theory is that my Dragonair had the same abilities I did. She was able to sense my strengths and emotions and thus had no need to battle me. She already knew I would make a perfect partner for her. And the rest is history. As our bond strengthened, our powers grew as well."
Ash's mouth tilts up into a happy smile as Carys grins at the thought of her dragon pokemon. They could see the large Dragonite off in the distance watching the kids nap in the warm sun. Its large yellow tail wrapped around some of the toddlers to give them warmth and a sense of protection.
They sat in companionable silence for several more minutes until a loud, teasing voice makes them jump.
"Not trying to steal my husband away from me are you Carys?"
Gary leisurely walks towards them leaving the small group of Draconids that he stayed with to train longer after their morning workout. His black tank top, drenched in sweat, clings to the sharp lines of his chest and abs.
Heart hammering in his chest, Ash shamelessly ogles his partner as Gary briefly closed his eyes to take a refreshing sip of water from his water bottle. A soft giggle from his right followed by a soft tap against his leg causes him freeze in panic.
Oh my Arceus. If Carys can read emotions than she knows! She has to know that we are lying about being married. What am I supposed to do now?!
Before Gary can catch onto his rising panic, Carys playfully responds to Gary's teasing remark with one of her own. "I don't know Gary. I don't think I could handle Ash's sex drive like you can."
Gary immediately spits out the water he was chugging. Eyes wide and face red as he coughs out the liquid he choked on. Ash's own tomato red face slowly turns to face the Rider next to him. She winks and pats his leg softly before leaning in to whisper in his ear.
"I'm sure you have a good reason for lying but it's true that I think you make a good couple. It took even me a while to catch that you weren't really married. That alone speaks enough. Just know that you can talk to me about anything whenever you need to talk alright?"
His embarrassment falls away as genuine happiness fills his being at her kind offer. Ash has never had a female friend before and he's glad that he's close with the Scarlet Heart Rider now. As she turns to chuckle at Gary's antics, he joins in. Laughing at the sputtering comments that Gary tries to defend himself with.
His smile grows as he meets those green orbs that he has known for so long. A single question keeps circulating in his mind. Brought to the surface by Carys' whispered words. If even Carys had a hard time seeing through the lie then maybe the emotions really are there. Even if they are hidden behind his usual surliness. Could he possibly feel the same way I do?
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 10
Gary leaps out of bed as a booming noise echoes throughout their little cave. Arms up to block a blow, he struggles to blink sleep out of his eyes as Ash quickly joins him.
Hearing a low chuckle from the entrance, he scowls and drops his fists. Grumbling incoherently, he turns his back on the amused Ruby Rider and climbs back into bed. Determined to ignore the man with every ounce of his being.
So much for their nice, quiet mornings. Looks like the Elders have finally dealt with whatever was keeping them busy for so long. Which means Aidan is now free to bother them again.
Fan-fucking-tastic.
He felt the other side of the bed sink as his partner sits back down wearily. The raven sighs softly as he waits for whatever pointless rant the man will begin today.
Gary opens his eyes to slits to watch the conversation unfold. Wanting to be able to stop any advances the man might make on his partner like he has on multiple occasions since their arrival. At the feet of the Elder sits a large box, no doubt the source of the loud noise that woke them as Aidan carelessly dropped it onto the ground the moment he entered their cave.
Green orbs widen in surprise at the objects sitting innocently in the box. Their weapons and packs looking exactly the same as when Gary last saw them that night he raided the mountain. Gary sits up slowly as the Elder gestures toward the box.
"Much to my surprise, I've had several Aerials approach me and requested that I return your belongings to you. They wish to train with weapons but can't do so with you two on restrictions so I am graciously lifting the ban."
Aidan bows low with his arm spread wide. Like an actor at the end of his performance. What the fuck is he doing that for? I'm not clapping for him or even thanking that crazy ass dick. They shouldn't have taken ALL of our stuff to begin with. Weapons, fine. But all our clothes and stuff? Not cool.
Ash yawns loudly next to him. With the initial adrenaline worn off, his mind returned to its sleepy, just woken up state. Brown orbs blink in confusion at the box at the Rider's feet. The raven's head tilts to the side as he finally processes the man's words. The dark, unruly locks flopping over with the motion.
"Aerials?"
Aidan looks at Ash curiously as he straightens up. The Elder crosses his arms over his chest as one finger extends itself up towards the ceiling. "Yes. Aerials. Our aerial fighters. Each squad leader reports directly to a Dragon Rider during a battle. Not to be confused with the Grounders, our ground troops who are led by us Elders and other prominent fighters. Didn't I tell explain this to you already?"
They just stare blankly at the man. Too tired to try to pick apart the various rants the man has made over the last two and a half months to try to find any useful information. Aidan huffs in annoyance and turns to leave. Just as he grips the door to close them off from the still dark crater, his words catch in Gary's mind.
"Why do the Elders lead the ground troops? You all have Rider names right? Why aren't you leading the Aerial troops too since Dragonites are flyers?"
Aidan freezes in the door, still as a statue. The man turns around and Gary's green eyes widen in shock. The man's face is completely etched in grief and sorrow. Perhaps the first time Gary has actually seen any real emotion on the cunning Rider's face. Not a mask that has been carefully arranged but actual, true feeling.
"I'm sure Carys has told you that a bonded dragon dies when its Rider dies right?" Aidan begins slowly. At their hesitant nod, he pulls down the neckline of his robe. A large, blood red blotch spreads out at the base of his neck and over his collarbone, like an angry burn that refuses to heal.
"After I bonded with my Dragonair, I became known as the Ruby Fox. I only had five short years with her though before she was killed in battle against the League. While a dragon dies if its Rider dies, a Rider can live on if his or her dragon falls. He will retain any powers the bond had granted but the shape of their bond mark deteriorates. Usually only leaving a colored blotch behind. That's why I am now only known as Ruby...The dragons still respect me as a worthy Rider but I will never be able to form another bond. So the other Elders and I are mere delegators. Sending the other Riders where they are needed and leading the Grounders into battle."
With the barest of smiles, weighed down with guilt and despair, the Rider turns and leaves the room. They don't stop him. Frozen as they are by the normally carefree Elder's shocking explanation.
The somber atmosphere lingers as they are left to the very early morning silence. Without a word, they get dressed and go through their belongings. Upon confirming that everything had been returned with the exception of the food that was most likely already eaten to prevent it from spoiling, they stand to leave.
With Gramps' necklace around his neck, he follows his newly capped partner out into the crater. They quietly make their way down to the Assembly Ground. Low burning torches lighting the way. Even with the sky gradually beginning to lighten with the bright colors of dawn, darkness still holds the interior of the mountain captive in its dark clutches.
Sitting on the small stage next to the Council Hall, they wait patiently for the sun to fully rise. Taking their time cleaning and sharpening their weapons as they wait for the usual Draconids, or Aerials apparently, to meet them for their morning workout.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 12
They were walking back from another training session.
As the tension steadily grew in the camp, the Draconids dedicated more and more time honing their skills. Spending most of the day either mastering their swordsmanship, battling with their pokemon, battling against other pokemon or, for the few who have mastered archery or had access to guns, working on their marksmanship.
They were unbelievably sore. They hadn't had to deal with this level of physical exertion since they left the Academy all those months ago. And the first few weeks that they spent in the mountain where they weren't allowed to do their normal workout routine had weakened their muscles.
But on the bright side, they have become quite close with the small group of Aerials that had initially invited them to their training. Gary would even go so far to say that they might even be friends at this point. When he and Ash weren't demonstrating and teaching their League trained skills, they were helping the Aerials with their chores and even eating meals in the Dining Hall with them. It helped that they were all relatively the same age as well.
Aaron, Darren, Will, Trent, Lee, Emilia...their ragtag group already has a fluid fighting dynamic. Each exploiting their own strengths while covering the other's' weaknesses. For example, Emilia or Emi as she preferred to be called, was extremely flexible and lightning fast. While Trent is the exact opposite. Standing several inches higher than Gary's tall frame and easily packing 100 pounds more of pure muscle, the man was practically a walking giant. Carrying a massive broadsword, he provides the strength needed where speed fails.
They were a force to be reckoned with. Especially as they steadily learned how to counter against the highly trained League soldiers. Other groups gradually began to join them as well.
While all the Draconids were extremely skilled fighters, they lacked the cohesive training which prevented them from fighting together as a large force. Using guerilla tactics against the League to make up for their smaller numbers.
That's probably why they fight in only small tactical units. Maybe we can convince the Elders to approve a regimen where we can teach battle formations. If a war is coming, we are going to need it with the way the League fights.
Gary is pulled from his thoughts as they walk out of the large pokemon cave. The others left ahead of them to get food while he and Ash decided to spend some more time with their pokemon who, like them, are completely exhausted.
They allowed their pokemon a few more minutes rest before returning them to their pokeballs. They had begun carrying their pokemon around with them a few days ago since they can rest easier and recuperate faster when stored in their balls.
Loud, pealing laughter meets their ears as they exit the cave. Off to the right he can see a large crowd gathered near the rock face of the crater. Briefly meeting his partner's curious brown eyes, they wander off to see what the commotion was about.
As they got closer, they were surprised to find the children out and about playing with the baby Dratini. Outside. Away from the Dragon's Den.
Thirty yards or so away, a small group of parents stand talking with Carys and Aitor. The two caretakers each glancing away every few seconds to scan their respective charges as they talk with the parents. Giving the children and pokemon a few more minutes of play time before they return to their respective caves.
Suddenly, a startled noise from next to him draws his gaze downwards. Ash stands frozen next to him, brown eyes wide in surprise and confusion. Following his gaze, Gary focuses on the man standing next to Aitor. One that he previously looked over because there was no way his mind could accept that he was actually there.
But there he is. Dressed in his usual olive tank top, camo pants and combat boots. Spiky blond hair sprouting from his head with his ever present haughty smirk in place. A man who shouldn't be here. Should have absolutely no idea where the Draconids' base even is. But yet the parents are chatting with him as if they don't even notice the uniform he is wearing. What the fuck is going on?
"Lieutenant Surge?" Ash calls out hesitantly from beside him.
The soldier turns slightly to face them. Adding to their shock, the man smiles and steps forward to give them a strong pat on their shoulders before chuckling heartily.
"Well, well, well. Pipsqueak and Asshole. About time you two got here. I was beginning to think I would just have to drag you here myself one day!"
Gary can only stare at the soldier. By the floundering noises coming from his partner, he can tell that Ash isn't doing much better.
"What's with the faces?" Lt. Surge asks them. His dark eyes narrowing in confusion.
"It's just...you're here?" Ash trails off in uncertainty.
The gym leaders scoffs before motioning behind him. Gary glances back to see Ash's father standing next to a short woman with orange hair pulled up in a ponytail and dressed in a tight yellow shirt and jean shorts. She looks familiar but he can't remember from where.
Sliding up next to Frank, the soldier slides an arm around the shorter man's shoulders good naturedly. "Of course I'm here." Lt. Surge scoffs. "Who else is going to keep an eye on the League with this crazy bastard no longer there?"
Green orbs widen in shocked understanding as the dots finally begin to connect. "It was you." Gary states. "The blond officer that Frank fought under during the War on Johto. That was you."
Lt. Surge nods triumphantly and opens his mouth but Gary isn't done. He quickly speaks up again before the man can start talking again. "So you were the one watching over us. Keeping the Draconids updated on our progress and the League's doings. You're a double agent."
The older soldier nods. Face set in a scowl at being cut off. But Gary ignores it as his excitement grows at the new information. His mind reeling as answers to questions he had been asking himself for months finally burst forth without much prodding.
"But you are a Gym Leader now. That's why there are so many younger Dragon Riders. The ranks needed to be replenished after losing so many to the League. But they still have to take a Trial and need a gym badge to do so. If there is a Gym Leader sympathetic to their cause, then it makes the whole process easier!"
The parents around them fall silent as they not so subtly eavesdrop on their conversation. Lt. Surge just stares at him. Jaw clenching tight as those dark eyes bore into his own green orbs. Finally, the man sighs heavily as he stands up straight and crosses his thick arms over his chest.
"I forgot how clever you are Oak. You're right. I've been helping Trial candidates earn their worth which is why I challenged Ash to a battle back in Vermillion City but I can't help you here."
Anger burned fast and furious in his gut at the refusal. Why won't he challenge me? Because I'm not his favorite cadet like Ash was? The Elders won't let us leave to go challenge a Gym so this is my only chance!
"Why?" Gary hisses out. Practically growling in fury. It only burns hotter as the blond smirks at him. He actually has the balls to smirk at him right now? His fingers itch to pull out the blade strapped to his waist.
"There's the temperamental Asshole I remember!" Surge cheerfully states but his smirk falls away to a blank mask a mere moment later. "But there is a reason I can't help. The dragons won't accept multiples of the same badge at once because they are greedy little hoarders. If you want to take the Trial together, which increases your survival rate, you both need different badges."
Silence falls as Gary processes the blond's words. Ash begins speaking but Gary doesn't pay any attention to what he's saying. His gaze slides to the right as he studiously ignores the pain-in-the-ass bastard in front of him.
There's no way I will get a badge now. He is probably the only one that supports the Dragon Riders. None of the other Gym Leaders have been in the military either. We're screwed.
He absently watches the brats playing tag with the Dratini. As he stares at them, one of the dragon pokemon sneezes. Launching a huge ball of purple fire into the rock face. Green orbs widen as small pebbles begin to tumble down the sheer slope. Quickly looking up, he spots a large overhanging boulder halfway up the steep wall.
Directly above where the children are playing.
The anger fizzes out abruptly. Replaced with rising horror as the children just stare at the burnt rock face. Several point up at the small rocks tumbling down to bounce around their feet but they are ignored. The boulder above them groans as more and more of its support begins to fall away.
Without a glance back, he rushes forward. Pulling pokeballs out and throwing them as close to the small group of children and pokemon as he can get. Red light bursts from the balls as his pokemon emerge from their slumber. He shoves the balls back into their pouch haphazardly as they rebound back to him after releasing their charges.
"Move! Get away from the rock face!" He bellows out at the kids and Dratini. They don't respond. Just staring at him in fear as he runs as fast as he can toward them. Frozen in place by the panic on his face.
He can hear the screams of mothers behind him as they finally realize what's happening. Their attention drawn by his shouts. More bursts of light fill his peripheral vision as he sprints forward.
Gary motions to his pokemon, now fully formed and looking around in confusion at the noisy chaos. "Get them away from there! The wall is collapsing!" He orders.
His pokemon respond to the command instantly. Wartortle, Dodrio and Eevee push the closest kids and pokemon away. Arcanine gently picks the kids up by the back of their shirts before slinging them onto its back. Aerodactyl swoops down to grab them in its large claws to carry them off to safety. Alakazam glows blue as it begins teleporting the group one by one to the safety of the group of parents still a fair distance away.
Nidoking, Scyther and Pinsir bounce back and forth at the base of the rock face. Pulverizing and slicing through the larger rocks that have begun to fall. Protecting everyone as long as they can.
Almost all of the pokemon and kids are being pulled away. There are only a few left. The moving defensive line begins to slow before his eyes. More rocks are getting past their defensive screen. They are just too tired from all of the workouts. They can't keep up.
He's almost there. Just a few more yards. The groaning and grinding noises above him almost drowning out the sound of dozens of pairs of feet running behind him.
But he knew they won't make it in time. He's the only one who had a chance.
Only the silver haired twin girls are left now. Small arms reaching out for him as they cried out in fear. Just as he's about to reach out for them, the boulder came free with a thundering roar. He could only stare in horror as it quickly gained momentum as it fell towards them.
He was too late. He couldn't avoid it. They are going to be crushed.
Spinning the girls around, he hunches over them instinctively. Curling around them to protect them as best as he could. They clutch onto him as their cries fill his ears.
Shadows fall over him as his pokemon take their place in front of him. Too tired to carry their trainer and the two girls to safety but determined to stop the runaway boulder with every ounce of remaining energy they have left.
The ground itself shakes as the rock bore down on them. But even over the noise, he can hear the sudden dual commands ringing out clearly in the mayhem.
"Dragonite! Hyper Beam!"
Gary looks up quickly to see two massive Dragonites standing next to Carys and Aitor. White hot energy already formed in their open maws as they took aim.
With mighty roars, the two beams of dazzling light zoom over him. The very air around him vibrating and boiling as the energized beams shoot by. He curls tighter around the twins as a roaring explosion sounds behind him.
Not feeling anything more than a strong gust of wind, he turns around quickly. His jaw drops open as he takes in his pokemon team's numerous bleeding wounds. Piles of pulverized stone litter their feet.
They blocked the explosion. They protected them from the shards of the boulder with their own bodies.
Gary struggles to move the crying girls still clutching his shirt enough to get to his pokeballs as his pokemon stagger in pain and exhaustion. He recalls them to prevent more blood loss just as the others finally reach him.
The girls' mother quickly pulls the twins out of his arms. Thanking him over and over again as she clutches her children to her.
Before Gary can even move to stand, Ash collapses to his knees in front of him. Tan arms reach out and pull him into a tight hug. Gary raises his arms to return the gesture but Ash has already pulled back.
With hands on his shoulders, brown orbs quickly roam over his body. Searching for injuries. Checking to make sure he was really is alive and not a pancake under thousands of pounds of stone.
"I'm fine. I'm alright." He assures shakily. Not sure if he was trying to convince his partner or himself.
"Thank Arceus." Ash whispers as he leans forward once more.
Gary freezes as warm lips suddenly connect with his own. His thoughts ground to a halt as Ash presses closer. Pressing against him to prove that Gary is truly there and alive and alright. Gary can only stare wide-eyed at the tan eyelids so close to his own.
After what felt like an eternity but somehow only a mere second at the same time, the raven pulls away. Gary remains frozen in place as brown orbs slowly open and lock with his. He can tell the exact moment Ash realizes what he has done. The moment his brown eyes widen and his face turns bright red.
They gape at each other in shock. Unable to process anything but the fact that Ash just kissed him.
Sputtering incoherent words that suspiciously sounded like he was going to check on the children. His partner jumps to his feet and runs away.
Gary stares after him silently. Lips tingling pleasantly with the ghost of Ash's touch. Mind still repeating the same phrase over and over again.
Ash just kissed me.
He tenses as a yellow blob fills his vision. Refocusing on the present, he stands and thanks the two Dragonites standing before him for saving his life.
The next few minutes were a blur as people swarmed him. Thanking him for his bravery and quick thinking. Wishing his courageous pokemon a full recovery. Offering him everything they could think of for saving the next generation of Draconids and dragon pokemon.
But he doesn't really pay attention. Just nodding at their thanks as his gaze keeps falling back to his partner who is standing a bit away talking with Carys in hushed tones. She keeps glancing back towards him every few seconds but Ash refuses to meet his gaze. The raven's back stubbornly turned away from him.
His attention snaps back forward as a hard punch lands on his arm. He grunts in pain as he stares at the angry orangette glaring up at him.
"What the fuck was that for?" Gary mumbles as he rubs his injured arm. Damn. Could she have punched me any harder? Geez.
"You weren't listening! Surge was right. You are an asshole! Even after I offered to help too." She growls. Thin arms cross over her rather flat chest as she glares daggers at him.
Gary just stares blankly at her. Having no recollection whatsoever of what she said with how distracted he was. She rolls her light green eyes at him before pointing a slim pale finger at his chest.
"I said that I will challenge you to a gym battle. That stunt you pulled earned my respect. If you beat me, you can take the Trial with Ash."
Gary just blinks in confusion and does a quick once over of the girl in front of him. She couldn't be older than sixteen yet here she was claiming that she is a Gym Leader. Did I hit my head or something?
"And who the hell are you?" He questions as he runs a hand through his hair. Subtly checking for any bumps that might be causing this hallucination.
A small pale finger fills his vision as she sticks it into his face. "My name is Misty, Cerulean City's Gym Leader."
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
Week 12 - Present Day
It was definitely a weird few days. Word had spread about how he "heroically risked his own life to swoop in and save all of the children and Dratini." He tried over and over again to explain how Carys and Aitor were the ones who saved them in the end by obliterating the boulder that almost crushed them but they wouldn't listen.
It was creepy. How he can go from being absolutely despised to being a so-called hero just because he reacted on instinct. Even if the League had tainted every other aspect of his life, at least they trained him to respond instantly to dangerous situations. To help where he is needed. And those kids and pokemon definitely needed his help. Especially since he was the only one who was even paying attention to them by that point.
Actually, he probably should thank Lt. Surge for pissing him off. It was because he was ignoring the soldier that he saw the unfortunate accident begin to unfold. But there was no force on earth that would force him to thank the blond to his face so...so much for that idea.
And to top everything off, Ash has been ignoring him. Spending every free second he has with Carys. Making up excuses to dart away whenever they are alone.
Gary is starting to get pissed off. He wants to talk to Ash. To ask him about the kiss. And why Ash was now ignoring him like the plague.
So like the mature adult he is, Gary started to avoid Ash in his frustration. Spending time with his pokemon as they steadily recovered from their injuries and total exhaustion.
Three days of rest and they were ready for the challenge. Sending Alli out to find Misty, he started walking to their makeshift field they made with the kids next to the pond.
He's surprised to see that Misty is already at the battlefield when he arrives. Lighting up torches to illuminate the surrounding area. His surprise fades away as he spots several water pokemon poking out from the surface of the pond.
I forgot that the Cerulean Gym specializes in water pokemon. This might be harder than I thought. Three of my pokemon are weak against water and I don't have any that would have a type advantage.
He's pulled from his thoughts when the orangette stops directly in front of him. Raising an eyebrow at her proximity, he opens his mouth to ask her what the hell she's doing but she begins speaking first.
"I forgot to ask you before. Did Professor Oak ever figure out what pokemon species the egg we found is?" She tilts her head at the question. Her green eyes boring into his.
It's at this point that he finally remembers why she looks so familiar. She was the one from the Marine Laboratory that brought Larvitar's egg to them in Vermilion City. He didn't recognize her at first since she wasn't wearing her lab coat.
He nodded and proceeded to explain about Ash's theory about the right aura needed for it to hatch and how the egg hatched into a Larvitar who's still in Ash's possession at the moment.
"Hang on," Gary pauses as he looks over her once more, "you're a gym leader. Why were across the country working at the Marine Laboratory?"
Misty shrugs at his question. "I have three older sisters. We are all considered to be the Leaders of Cerulean Gym. We take turns who has to watch over it and challenge trainers that show up. When it's not my turn, I travel back to the Marine Laboratory. My water pokemon expertise is a huge asset to them and I like to learn new things about my favorite type."
Misty pauses before striking a dramatic pose like she was some superhero in a movie. "But enough chatting! It's time to battle! Do you mind if I change the rules a bit?" She asks, head once more cocked to the side.
Gary stares at her before shaking his head. His curiosity getting the better of him. This girl is just so….weird. Who just walks around striking poses like that? How much can you change up a sanctioned gym battle anyway?
The orangette smiles widely at him before pulling out all of her pokeballs. Holding the shrunken spheres out to him, she gestures down with her head. "Go ahead and pick one. We will each pick out a random pokemon from the other. Makes it way more interesting if you ask me since it proves if a trainer can adapt to an uncontrolled situation."
Gary smirks at her. Clever. She only has water pokemon so it's easy for her to adapt but any challenger will immediately flounder at the possibility that a weaker pokemon will be chosen thus giving her a mental edge before the battle even starts.
Guess I'll just have to outplay her then. Odds are that she won't pick one of my pokemon with a water weakness anyway.
He picks out a dive ball sitting in the middle of her right hand. She nods and puts the other balls back in her drawstring bag she pulled off her back. Pointing the chosen ball at the pond, she presses the button to return the chosen pokemon back to its ball before she releases it on her side of the battlefield to show that she didn't cheat and pick another pokemon that was out for a swim.
Gary analyzes the water pokemon. It spins its purple star shaped body as it prepares for battle. The large red gem in the center glowing brightly with hidden psychic power. The mysterious pokemon. Starmie.
Starmie has water and psychic typing so if she picks Scyther or Pinsir, I will have an advantage now. Awesome.
Pulling his balls off of his belt and pouch, he mimics her pose. Holding them out for her to chose. He stares at her as she takes her time looking over each ball. Finally, she smiles and picks up the ball closest to her. His throat drops into his stomach as he stares at the small ball in her hands.
She picked up Eevee's pokeball.
His youngest pokemon. His least trained pokemon. The one he can't afford to lose in a battle because she was a precious gift.
His inner torment must have broken through his mask because she was looking at him with uncertainty. She knew which pokemon he had thanks to the rescue and must have made the connection on her own.
"I can pick a dif-" She mumbles but trails off as Gary shakes his head. Taking a deep breath, he puts his other pokeballs away and plucks the ball out of her loose grip.
"I accept your challenge. Prepare to hand over your badge Misty." He states confidently as he moves to the trainer box on his side of the field.
Smirking at his challenge, the orangette bounds over to her box and waits for him to release his pokemon.
Taking another deep calming breath, Gary releases the normal type pokemon. Once Eevee fully forms from the ball of red energy, she yips happily at him and begins to run over. He shakes his head and points toward the water pokemon waiting patiently twenty feet away.
"Ready for your first gym battle Eevee?" He asks. The evolution pokemon yips again and spins in place to face her opponent. Small paws spread wide in her battle ready stance.
Starmie continues to wait patiently. Misty doesn't call out any commands either. Seemingly content to give them the first move.
The water pokemon towers over his pokemon at almost three and a half feet tall compared to Eevee's tiny one foot high frame. It is probably ten times heavier too. Hopefully Eevee will be able to outspeed it otherwise we don't have a chance.
"Eevee let's start this out with a Quick Attack!" Gary calls out.
Eevee responds automatically. Darting forward and changing angles in hopes of confusing her opponent. Just as she bounds forward to deliver the powerful tackle, Starmie spins off to the side. Coming to rest on two of its points several feet away.
Gary tenses as Eevee darts after the water pokemon. Her speed increasing as time and time again Misty's Starmie dodges at the last possible moment. Sending Eevee tumbling into the ground at the missed contact.
Crouching down low, Eevee Growls threateningly. Her fluffy mane poofing out in agitation.
"Starmie, Water Gun!" Misty commands. The point facing up towards the night sky bends towards Eevee as a torrent of water bursts out with such a high velocity that it slams into Eevee before Gary can even blink.
The normal type flies across the field. Bouncing and dragging along the wet ground before finally coming to rest at Gary's feet.
Gary quickly squats down and reaches for his smallest pokemon. "Eevee?" His heart clenches as the normal type shakes his steadying hand off as it climbs to its feet. Panting heavily, it slowly walks forward. Shaking its fur to dislodge excess water.
"You sure you still want to continue?" Misty asks. Gary refuses to answer. Keeping his face blank as he orders his pokemon forward once more.
If Ash could beat Lt. Surge with a weaker pokemon then so can I. Eevee has spent enough time with Pikachu that they are practically the same speed now from all the games they play. She can do this.
"Eevee, Agility!" She disappears in a puff of dirt. Darting across the field. Leaving only wet paw prints in her wake.
"Quick Attack!" The brown streak turns suddenly and darts for the purple star shaped pokemon. Gary smirks as Eevee lands a solid blow into her opponent. The momentum sending Starmie flying into the air.
"Starmie, Rapid Spin!"
His smirk falls as Starmie begins rotating in mid-air. Way faster than Wartortle could ever hope to achieve. A high pitched thrumming resonates through him as the water type whips around, flying through the air like a boomerang. Angling to pound Eevee into the dirt.
"Double Team!" Gary cries out quickly, hoping that Eevee has enough time to create the illusions before Starmie can strike.
Vibrating in place, Eevee darts side to side. Increasing speed as one by one after-images appear. Giving the illusion that Eevee is in multiple places at once.
Good. Starmie will only be able to hit one at a time. Chances are it will hit an afterimage and have to circle back to attack again giving Eevee enough time to regenerate the illusion. Both of them need to use massive amounts of energy to keep these speeds up. We just have to wait the water pokemon out. It will slow down as it starts to dry out.
"Starmie, Water Gun! Hit them all at once!" Misty orders. Her stance rigid as she watches the battle from her side of the field.
Gary's eyes widen in horror. He knows how powerful this combo is having used it multiple times himself. But Starmie has more power and speed than his Wartortle. Its combined power and speed will be beyond devastating.
"Run Eevee!" He cries out desperately. But he's too late. Water lashes out in every direction. Whipping through the air in thin, razor sharp streams. Gouging into the ground and even slicing through a few of the metal poles the torches rest atop of.
Covering his face with his arms, he flinches as he feels the blades of water rip through his thick Kevlar sleeves and bite sharply into the skin on his arms. Peeking through the limbs, he watches Eevee get knocked off her feet by the powerful attack.
Flying through the air, her back slams into one of the metal poles knocking it over. The flame flutters weakly on the wet ground. Casting dark shadows over his pokemon's unmoving body.
He's about to forfeit the match and rush to his pokemon's side as her tail twitches. He freezes as she slowly lifts her head. Struggling to get to her feet before collapsing once more.
"Last time Gary." Misty begins. She's speaking quietly. He knows she is even though its trumpeting throughout his mind as if she yelled it at him. Her voice is hesitant and laced with pity and it's pissing him off. "Switch out to another pokemon. I will even let you pick which one you-"
"No." He growls out between clenched teeth. His eyes slide over to latch onto her green orbs as Eevee finally staggers to its feet and remains standing.
"Eevee may not be the biggest or strongest part of my team but she has more willpower than any of my other pokemon by far. Standing up to opponents way behind her power level and size without even flinching. Protecting me and Ash without a second thought to her safety. She trusts me just as much as I trust her. I believe in her. She will win this battle!"
The satisfaction of watching Misty's mouth drop open in shock at his speech morphs into confusion as a bright light fills the field. He squints at the white light but is forced to close his eyes. The white light beyond blinding after getting used to the semi-darkness that fell over the field as torches were steadily knocked over.
Dark spots briefly fill his vision as Gary struggles to blink away the blurriness brought on by the sudden brightness. Glancing back over to where he last saw Eevee, he double takes when he doesn't see the small brown pokemon.
"Eevee?" Gary calls out hesitantly. Glancing around the field in confusion.
That couldn't have been an evolution light. There were no stones nearby and we are still in Kanto. She couldn't have evolved into anything else.
His gaze whips forward as Starmie is flung across the field. Having landed from its spinning attacks sometime during his brief speech. A dark blur pursues the star shaped pokemon and slams it further into the ground.
Red eyes glow from somewhere in the darkness. Yellow rings pulse with energy from seemingly out of nowhere.
The gem in the center of Starmie's body glows as it prepares to unleash a psychic attack to throw off the unknown force pinning it down. Gary squints hard into the dim light. Just barely making out a dark shape.
His jaw drops open in shock. The dark shape is almost the same size as Starmie if not just a tad bit smaller.
Eevee somehow evolved into Umbreon.
"Starmie don't use Psychic! Umbreon will just absorb it!" Misty calls out in a panic. Her green eyes wide in alarm as she stares at the newly evolved pokemon that now has a significant type advantage over her pokemon.
As the light increases from Starmie's gathering energy, Gary can make out the glowing ball of swirling black and purple energy. Swelling in size with each pulse of red light coming out of the jewel. Absorbing the psychic power into its dark depths.
The red light fades as Starmie begins to power down. Squirming under its now much heavier opponent. Gary rapidly analyzes the new situation. Trying to figure out how to end this battle as soon as possible so he can get Umbreon back to the Medical Bay.
Even if Eevee evolved, she is still heavily injured from that combo attack. She probably one has one more strong attack left, especially since Umbreon has way higher defensive stats compared to offense.
Glancing up quickly, he sees a large cloud covering part of the moon. Slowly moving away as it travels across the sky. The moonlight must have triggered her evolution even if we are in the wrong region. Umbreon gains power from moonlight. If I time this right, she might just have a chance.
Gary swings his gaze back down to the two battling pokemon. Umbreon struggles to hold the heavier water type down as she continues to power up her dark energy.
Just a few more seconds.
Umbreon's yellow rings flare golden as the full power of the moonlight fills the battlefield with its soft light.
"Umbreon! Dark Pulse! Give it everything you have left!"
The black pokemon leaps high into the air. Its body curling back as the ball of dark energy triples in size from the surge of power the moon provides. The golden rings on its body casting strange shapes onto the menacing sphere.
Twisting midair, Umbreon flings the ball downwards. Right at Starmie who is still struggling to get out of the small ditch its body made where Umbreon Body Slammed it earlier.
The glowing orb crashes right into the Starmie's jeweled center. Forcing the water type back into the ground as the black and purple energy washes over the star shaped pokemon. Seeming to curl and squeeze the water pokemon as if the shadows have come to life with a will of their own.
A high pitch screech echoes through the field follow by the piercing shatter of glass breaking. The dark energy dissipates as the moonlight fades behind another cloud.
Shards of the red gem slowly tumble to the ground. Catching the little remaining fire light as they fall. Looking like small tears of liquid fire as the hit the earth with small tinkling sounds.
Umbreon lands in front of him. Crouched low to the ground. Red eyes locked onto her opponent as she waits for its counter-attack. Her limber frame shaking with exertion as she pants harshly in the ensuing silence.
Gary can barely make out the dim blinking light coming from Starmie's destroyed jewel. With a heavy sigh, Misty returns her pokemon to the safety of its dive ball.
Gary smiles as Umbreon leaps up at him. Grunting at the heavy weight that slams into his chest. Almost knocking him over. A course pink tongue licks his cheek happily as he subtly checks her for injuries. The moonlight pokemon hisses as he presses against her side but she seems fine otherwise, much to his relief.
A blue gem in the shape of a raindrop catches his attention as it glitters atop of a small pale hand. Misty passes the object over to him when he reaches for it.
The surface is cool and smooth. As if water itself had somehow been captured and turned to stone. It back is completely flat like the Boulder Badge Ash found in the Dragon's Den minus the small notch that can be used to turn it into a pin.
"As proof of your victory, take this Cascade Badge." Misty repeats the ritualistic words. Sealing his victory over the Gym Leader. "Congratulations Gary. That was a great battle. You never doubted your pokemon and for that I am envious. Don't lose that badge though. It's made from pure blue tourmaline. They cost a fortune to make."
Nodding dutifully, he carefully slides the badge into one of the many pockets of his cargo pants. Securing the pocket to prevent the small gem from sliding out accidentally.
I have a gym badge. I have proven my worth. Next up, the Trial.
xxx-War of the Dragon Riders-xxx
AN: AHHH FINALLY! I was debating so many ways of how to get their first kiss in (because CPR doesn't count!) but I think I like this one the best. I just love slow building relationships but it will definitely pick up from here so don't worry!
How did you guys like this chapter? I threw in a bunch of info so let me know if I need to explain some things some more. I also played with my writing style a bit here so hopefully it wasn't awful.
Favorite/follow/review please!
Next up: Chapter 39 - Trial
