OSPREY…SWOOOSH
UO: Hey guys I'm back. Actor check
May: Max and me are here.
Brock: Same with me and Misty
Drew: Ash is in the bathroom give him a minute.
Tori: Me and Gabby are here
UO: Good. Wait, Hold on.
Misty: What? Did something happen.
UO: No. We are actually missing someone.
Ash: Hey guys I met this nice girl in the hallway she seemed lost.
Mystery girl: (A little timidly) Hello.
UO: Ah you must be Anabel. A pleasure to meet you. (Shakes her hand)
Anabel: Yes thank you for letting me be a part of this story. I hope I can make a contribution to this and future stories.
Misty (whispers to May) Who is this girl
May: (Whispers back) She is the Frontier Brain of the Battle Tower. She apparently had a crush on Ash during our visit.
Misty: Is she a nice girl?
May: (Nods) Yep. A crazy good battler though.
Misty: (Folds arms) I would like to get to know her better.
May: I think you'll like her
UO: Alright peanut gallery places please. Anabel which you do the honors.
Anabel: Of course. Mr. UnitedOsprey1991 does not own Pokémon or Kamen Rider. He would change a lot of things if he owned either franchise.
UO: Thank you Anabel. And no Mister. We are a casual group here.
Misty: What about the Fairy Tail group?
UO: Until they convince me otherwise I have to assert my authority. You guys don't do that intentionally. Anyway on with the show.
Normal: Dialogue
Italics: Thoughts and flashbacks and telepathy.
CAPS: Attacks
Bold: Yelling and Belt Noises
Bold and Italics: Yelling in head:
Underline: Dates and locations
Chapter 24: Empathetic Battling (Elements of AG169 and AG170)
Location: Team Rocket HQ
Glenn was furiously marching down the hallway. He had just gotten out of a meeting with Giovanni and it was what was said in the meeting that had him mad.
Flashback
Glenn and Giovanni were meeting in Giovanni's office with Jessie, James and Meowth. Giovanni looked annoyed.
"I am beginning to get annoyed with these failures Glenn. What is the issue?"
Glenn looked straight at Giovanni. "These Kaijuu I employ are powerful it is not like I don't put any effort into creating them. These Kamen Riders are incredibly persistent and have beaten them.
Giovanni slammed the desk. "I don't care I want results. I am not paying out of my bank accounts for you to help me take over this region to watch you mess up. I expect results soon or else. Now get out of this office." Giovanni said turning around his chair.
Glenn snarled and walked out slamming the door. Giovanni turned to regard Jessie and James.
"Keep an eye on him you two. I am not fully convinced of his intentions."
"Yes Sir." The two saluted and left his office.
Flashback end
Glenn growled at the memory. "That pompous fool believes he can order me around." He turned and saw Jessie and James walking with them. "And you idiots are screwing up as well. What am I going to do with you?"
Jessie stepped forward. "We have been dealing with these kids for a couple years now, they have always found a way to win, despite our best efforts, Glenn."
Glenn huffed and turned around. "If those blasted Riders are so tough why don't they get a taste of their own medicine?" Glenn said. He stopped and grinned. "Why don't they after all the only person that could beat them is themselves. Come you two we have a target to capture."
James looked at Glenn. "What do you have in mind Glenn?"
Glenn chuckled. "There is rumors of an empath in Kanto. A very powerful one. One of the Frontier Brains in fact. Based on your observations they are going around the Battle Frontier right? They would have to go to one of six places before they find the seventh. This Frontier Brain heads the one they still need. So killing two Pidgey with one stone we can capture this person and the riders." Glenn smirked evilly and chuckled turning into full laughter.
Jessie and James looked at each other. "Should we warn the twerps?" James asked.
Jessie shook her head. "When can we get the time to send the message. Our best bet is if they captured we discreetly help them. Come on let's go you two." She said motioning the two to follow Glenn who was muttering about his defeat of the Riders.
With said Riders
When we last saw our heroes, they had discovered part of Ash's genealogy as a distant relative of the queen of Rota. They also discovered books on Aura through the queen's generous donation. This donation came about after they freed a Lucario from the kingdom's great hero's staff and saved a Mew in what was dubbed the Tree of Beginning. They had fought of another Kaijuu but Ash and Drew forced to nearly give up their lives to restore the Tree of Beginning. Only the timely intervention of Lucario spared them that fat and were with him as he joined his master in the afterlife. Ash being more in tuned with Aura even subconsciously took the hero's, Sir Aaron's, gloves and was now wearing them to practice these abilities.
We find them now in a clearing working on a basic ability of Aura, sensing attacks without the use of sight. May was now the one in the middle with a blindfold on. Misty, Ash, Max, Drew and Gabby were surrounding her and were tensed to attack her with their training weapons. Max was the first to advance on swinging her staff at her. Notice the subtle changes she turned and parried him. When he was stumbling, May sent an elbow into his shoulder knocking him away. At the same time Misty charged trident spinning. May turned and bent back dodging the initial attack. Misty pulled back and May started dancing her sword to get inside Misty's guard. Misty hoped back and Gabby took her chance to swing at her with her knives. May was forced to quickly block the swipes as Gabby was relentless. She jumped back and then Ash and Drew charged at her. Drew kept her in between the two as Ash took his chance to attack her. It became a flowing dance as both parried each other's attacks and moved their feet to try and get inside each other's guards. It ended with a low slash by Ash which May blocked. Spinning twice Ash managed to dislodge her blade and she ended up on her butt. Ash chuckled as May took off her blindfold.
"You're getting better May." Ash said smiling.
May pouted. "I just don't have the ability to sense more than a couple of attackers at a time."
Ash chuckled. "It just takes practice." Ash said holding out his hand. May smiled and jumped up.
Drew mocked gagged. "Please take the lovey dovey elsewhere." Drew said as they started walking back to the camp.
Brock was feeding the pokémon and Tori was reading a book on potential Aura abilities.
Brock looked up to see his friends walking up to them.
"Hey guys. How did the training go?" He asked.
Misty was the one who answered. "I got bruises that have bruises. Gabby you didn't have to be rough with whacks.
Gabby looked sheepish. "Sorry but don't think you're the only one. I am sore from having to bend my body out of place."
May just collapsed face first. "I feel exhausted. My back is killing me." Misty looked at Ash and smiled. They walked over to May and picked her up and brought her over to a log. Laying her down Ash started to rub her back earning a soft moan from the girl.
"A little lower…oh yeah, right there." May said closing her eyes. Ash smiled as Misty rubbed her hair.
Drew chuckled and turned to Tori. Spotting the book, he curiously asked. "What are you reading Tori?"
Tori smiled. "This book outlines the many different documented powers of Aura. This is a good read. The part I am reading now is the Empath power. It say some Aura Guardians were able to sense a pokémon's emotions and communicate with them through their shared feelings."
Drew looked thoughtful. "That sounds like a good power. A guardian could order attacks and their enemies wouldn't be able to tell where they are coming from. This could also improve their friendships."
Tori nodded and looked over at the Aura trio. It was Misty's turn under Ash's touch which he added a small spark of electricity to numb and soften the muscles. Misty's long hours of swimming, walking and training had given her muscle where it counted, which Ash took great pleasure massaging when he could. The contented sigh was proof enough she enjoyed it.
Drew sighed and felt Tori's arms on his shoulders. He tensed and then relaxed.
"Oh yeah…I needed that thanks Tori." He said as Brock served them lunch.
After lunch and clean-up which got some protest from May and Misty not wanting to get up they were on their way to the Battle Tower.
Forest
A purple-haired girl was running through the woods. Her appearance was dirty with bruises and cuts and her purple and white clothes were slightly torn up as well. She stopped in front of a tree and tried to get some rest. She knew she was being chased and she could ill-effort to rest for long.
She remembered what happened two days earlier.
Flashback
The girl was in her place of work the Battle Tower. She was training her faithful Espeon when a familiar face to her showed up.
"Anabel, how's it going my young Salon Maiden?
The now named Anabel turned around and smiled. "Hello Scott, what brings you by today?
Scott smiled. "I am doing great. Listen I have a couple of trainers that are looking to challenge your facility soon and I thought you mind like to have a look at their files.
Anabel nodded as Scott pulled out their files. "This is as of the Battle Palace against Spenser. Though the pictures are as of Hoenn I can assure they look different now.
Anabel took the files and looked at Drew's file first. She was impressed with his track record having only one official battle lose to Ash Ketchum in the final of Ever Grade Conference. His pokémon looked strong and she was started to formulate plans to counter him.
When she started looking at Ash her thought process stopped. The brown eyes that looked so warm and inviting, that cute face and infectious smile. Her heart was starting to pound. What is causing these feelings to surface. Was her heart connecting to this boy
Before she could voice her thoughts, the tower shook. Anabel looked shocked but Scott had an idea what it was.
"Anabel, get your pokémon and your stuff we need to go now."
Anabel was confused but nodded. She returned Espeon and she grabbed her bag. Before they could get far another explosion rocked the arena. The two turned and saw a black haired man in a dark suit.
"Well now that's convenient. Men lock up all the personnel here." Glenn pointed at Anabel. "You are coming with me Empath."
Scott was more worried about Anabel. "Anabel run, find Ash and Drew. Tell them what happened here."
Anabel nodded and turned to run out the emergency exit. Glenn ordered the soldiers with him to start chasing her while Scott was tied up.
End Flashback
Anabel had little time to gather stuff other than her pokémon and a small bag of supplies. In the limited time she was able to separate from her pursuers she gathered berries and water. But she knew she was essentially running on fumes. She stood up and attempted to walk but she collapsed to her knees. She tried standing up again but she fell forward. She was losing consciousness fast and she figured she was close to death.
She heard rustling and saw a Pikachu come out and walk up to her. Pikachu heard something and called out. Seconds later in her fading sight she saw a black haired figure run up to her. She heard other voices but they were indistinguishable. Her last thoughts before passing out was 'At least I got to see my savior' before she passed out completely.
Minutes before
Our heroes were attempting to find the Battle Tower but once again they appeared to be lost again. This was partially the fact the GPS on the pokénav was having trouble picking them out in the dense woods part of it was their unfamiliarity of the terrain.
"Max …why did you get us lost?" Gabby said in a neutral tone.
"For the one hundredth time Gabby I did not get us lost. Stupid terrain is messing up the pokénav."
Let it not be said that the earth trio had bad patience. On the contrary they had started to learn to be patient. But they were easily bored and decided to poke fun at the situation.
"Max hey Max can I see the map I want to know where we are?" Drew asked with a straight face.
Max had enough. "May hold this. YOUR HISTORY DREW!" Max said jumping onto the preteen.
The group stopped and decided to make camp considering it was starting to get late. As they set up they watch amusement as Max and Drew wrestled on the ground. Misty was roped into being the referee for the impromptu match as they grappled. It ended with Max being suplexed and being counted out by Misty. The young boy groaned as he was helped up.
"Your still a few years from giving me a tough time Max." He said as they sat down to rest.
Ash chuckled sheepishly and turned to his long-time companion. "They have a lot of energy don't they Pikachu." He asked.
Pikachu dropped his head and agreed. Pikachu then perked up and looked around.
"What's wrong Pikachu?" Ash asked him which got everyone's attention.
Pikachu said nothing and then took off into the woods. Ash panicked and started rushing after him calling out his name.
Drew groaned. "The mouse needs a leash." He turned to the rest of the group. "Stay here everyone. Ash wait up." Drew said as he went where Ash went into the woods.
Ash was pushing through the woods chasing after his wayward companion. He saw a clearing and walked out. He looked around and tried to find Pikachu.
"Pikapi" Ash heard Pikachu and turned towards him. What he saw shocked him. It was a purple haired girl that appeared to be unconscious. A cursory glance saw she had cuts and bruises. Whatever she went through it was pretty nasty.
"Ash where did you go?" Drew called out.
Ash turned to regard his friend. "Pikachu found this girl she is unconscious. Something must have attacked her."
Drew looked over at the girl. "Damn looks like she's been through a bit. Based on the cuts the loss of blood wasn't the cause of this. Most likely she is either tired, hungry or both." Drew said. Another rustling was heard and this time it was Tori who was concerned about the two and followed them.
"Tori you scared us. I thought I told you to stay at the camp. Never mind I need your medical expertise. Look." Tori looked and saw the downed girl. "We can only see surface wounds but I would not be surprised if something else is wrong.
Tori looked at the girl and gasped. "What happened?"
Ash shrugged. "We don't know, Pikachu found her like this."
Tori shook her head. "We will need to bring her back to the camp. I can check her more properly. She looks like she has exhaustion. Might be hungry too."
Drew nodded but before they could pick her up, their senses went haywire.
Ash quickly picked up the girl and handed her off to Tori. "Tori we got this, make sure the girl is okay."
Tori nodded and started running back to the camp.
Ash and Drew stood in the clearing their weapons out. Drew turned to Ash.
"How many?" He asked.
Ash closed his eyes and projected his aura. Opening his eyes he turned to Drew. "Ten signatures, no kaijuu, looks like some sort of scout force."
Drew nodded. "Let's make sure they don't see us." Drew said as they jumped into the trees, Pikachu following closely.
The ten soldiers were still looking for their target were scanning the forest. Drew and Ash had snuck into the trees and waiting as their opposition came closer. They waited until they all passed underneath and then with a silent count they jumped. Using their swords they jumped and impaled two of them through the heads. The other eight turned around but before they could react two more were stabbed through the stomach. Like poetry in motion the two spun and struck two more off to the side fatally slashing them. The other four started to try to attack with their blades on their backs. Drew and Ash grinned and charged up attacks.
THUNDEBOLT
PYRO BURST
The attacks were launched and they connected with three of them destroying them. The last one panicked and attempted to run. The two boys were slightly faster and they cloths lined him. Their opponent got up and Drew picked him and placed him over his shoulders. With a mighty heave he threw him up. As he came down Ash caught him under his arm and dropped to the floor. The impact broke the soldier's neck disintegrating him.
"And that's why wrestling is dangerous. It might be fake in the sense the outcomes are predetermined but the moves could seriously hurt someone if not trained right.: Drew said to Ash.
"Interesting. Come one let's head back. I am want to know what happened to the girl." He said as they made their way back to camp.
A few minutes later they reached their friends. They saw the tent was put up which was unusual as they rarely put it up.
"What's with the tent?" Ash asked.
Gabby who using a sewing kit that Brock happened to have with him looked up (Brock has a hammer space in his bag in canon). "The girl had more cuts underneath the shirt. Tori needed to remove it get a good look at it hence the tent for her privacy. I am trying to mend the shirt for her. She still hasn't regained consciousness though." Gabby said finishing up the stitching.
Brock looked up. "I am sure she has to be hungry but we will give her privacy for now." He said as they sat down for dinner. Pikachu, though went inside the tent. He looked up at Tori who was finishing bandaging and covering the girl up. Tori looked over and saw Pikachu looking sad.
"Hey Pikachu do you mind looking after her?"
Pikachu nodded and Tori crawled of the tent. Pikachu trotted over to watch over the unconscious girl.
Anabel POV
An hour later the smell of the food cooking stirred me awake. I groaned awake as my vision cleared. The first thing I noticed was that I was in a tent. I sighed in relief. Someone had found me. The second thing she noticed was her mid-section was bandaged up. Feeling around I felt that my pants were still there but my shoes weren't. Sitting up I winced. I guess I was hurt worse than I thought.
Glancing around I saw a Pikachu napping near me. This was the Pikachu that found me. I smiled and started petting it. This seemed to wake up the mouse. It looked up and spotted me while petting it. It squealed in happiness as I found the right spots.
"Well hello there my yellow friend. Have you been watching me this entire time?"
Pikachu replied in the affirmative.
"Thank you. Is your trainer nearby?"
Pikachu nodded again and motioned her to stay here and leapt out of the tent. A minute later, a brown haired girl that looked happy to see me awake came in with Pikachu.
Normal POV
Tori crawled into the tent and saw the purple haired girl sitting up. She smiled.
"Hey there. I am glad to see you awake. You had numerous cuts and some bruising but I took care of that. Your over shirt has mended. Let me get it for you."
Tori left and came back with the jacket.
"You have a lovely jacket. It suits you. Sorry let me introduce myself. I am Victoria Spallina, but you can call me Tori. What's yours?"
Anabel looked at her and seeing no deception in her aura smiled. "I'm Anabel. Thank you so much for rescuing me."
Tori shook her head. "It wasn't me. Two of the boys in our group found you along with this guy." She said pointing to Pikachu who chirped happily.
Anabel nodded. "I see, can I meet them?"
Tori smiled. "Sure we were just sitting down to dinner. You must be hungry." At that Anabel's stomach growled. She blushed slightly.
"I haven't had a decent meal in a couple of days. Thank you." Anabel said as she put on her jacket.
Coming out of the tent she was greet with nine others sitting around the campfire.
"Guys this is Anabel. Please introduce yourselves."
"You're awake that's good. I'm May and this is my brother Max." May said pointing at Max with her usual energy.
Tori laughed. "Calm down May. Like she said that's May and her brother Max. The blonde is Gabriella we call her Gabby" Gabby smiled and waved. The red head is Misty she used to be the gym leader at Cerulean gym."
"Hello there" Misty said.
"The cook here is Brock."
"Hi there."
"And your heroes, Drew and Ash." Tori finished the introductions.
"How's it going?" Drew said with a smile.
"Bet your hungry Anabel. Come on in there's plenty."
Anabel took one look at Ash and blushed but it went unnoticed by the group. Dinner was served shortly after that. When it was served to Anabel she took one bite and widened her eyes and started to eat with a gusto. In five minutes she was done. She looked up and saw her new companions look at her with wide eyes. She burped and blushed slightly. "Can I have some more it was really good." She said shyly.
Drew outright belly laughed which got the others to laugh and giggle. "Man I though Ash and me were the only ones that ate fast. Anabel you would fit right in with us." He said as Brock served her more and she ate more slowly this time. Ten minutes passed with casual conversations. When the meal was finished Drew turned to Anabel.
"Anabel we would like to know what you were doing in the woods. You weren't prepared for camping and judging by the cuts you were attacked by something. What happened?'
The whole group turned to Anabel who looked away from their gaze.
"Well…since you did save me I guess I can tell you." Anabel said taking a deep breath.
"Three days ago I was working at the Battle Tower, where I am the Frontier Brain." This got shocks from everyone. Ash and Drew looked at each other and then back at Anabel.
Misty voiced her opinion though. "You look young for a frontier brain you must be really good at pokémon battling."
Anabel nodded. "Yes I am. Anyway I was meeting with the Frontier owner Scott."
This got curious looks from the assembled group. They asked as a series of questions.
"Round guy?" Max
"Brown Hair?" May
"Wears a Hawaiian shirt?" Tori
"Drives a convertible?" Gabby
"Love publicity?" Ash
"Should have his license revoked?" Drew
"The Frontier owner?" Brock
Anabel sweatdropped at the descriptions. "Yes to all of those. Any way he talked to me about Ash and Drew as my next challengers. As we were discussing this the tower was attacked by these goons. Some guy named Glenn was leading them." At this her new friends' looks darkened and leaned into listen to more.
"We thought about fighting back but when Glenn said he was there for me, Scott told me to run. Those men captured the staff and Scott. I ran only able to grab my bag with a small amount of supplies and my pokémon. They kept finding me and attacking me. Somehow I got away multiple times. But three days of not eating much kind of caught up to me. If you hadn't found me I am sure I was going to be caught. But the Tower and all those people. I am a coward." Anabel said as she covered her face and started to cry silently. She felt a hand on her shoulder and looked to see the eyes she fell in love with.
"Anabel…we have fought these guys before. We can save the Tower. We will protect you as long as your with us."
Anabel teared up and she started to cry openly now. She buried her head into Ash's shoulder, mumbling her thanks as she wept. Ash held her rocking her gently. Off to the side May and Misty were looking at the exchange.
"Anabel seems all shook up over this." Misty said.
"Sounds like a certain redhead I know." May teased.
Misty mocked scowled. May though looked at crying girl. "You saw her reaction when Ash introduced himself, right?"
Misty sighed. "It might be a crush but we can't exactly destroy it can we?"
May shook her head. "No. Give her a chance. I think her feelings might be genuine." May said.
Misty took May's hand. "We have the final say on this let's just see how this plays out okay?"
May squeezed Misty's hand and nodded.
Anabel had recovered from crying and wiped her eyes. "Sorry about that."
Ash smiled. "No worries Anabel."
Drew looked up at the sky. It was dark enough to see stars. "Alright I think it's time we pack up. We have at least a two day journey ahead of us. We need to get on the road early tomorrow."
The rest of the camp agreed. Anabel considering she did not have a bag with her was offered the tent to which she was grateful for. After the long day she had she was glad to have something soft to sleep in. She was a little stunned when Pikachu came into the tent and crawled into Anabel's arms.
Ash poked his head into the ten and smiled at Pikachu. "Pikachu doesn't normally get along with strangers that fast. Hope you don't mind him sleeping with you."
Anabel shook her head and turned away to hide her blush. "No I don't mind. Do you my friend?" Pikachu looked at her and nodded.
"Alright then good night." Ash said ducking outside. Anabel sighed and laid back down. She started petting Pikachu which soothed the electric mouse to sleep. Anabel fell asleep but her dreams were about to take a more dramatic turn.
Anabel's dreamscape
Anabel opened her eyes and gasped. She was in a forest that was absolutely beautiful. She looked around in wonder at the flowers and the lake. This was not her usual dreams when she had them. She heard a cry and looked and saw her faithful companions, Espeon, Metagross and Alakazam. She had befriended two others but they weren't with her when the tower was attack.
"What are you guys doing here?" Anabel wondered out loud.
"They are projections young maiden." Anabel turned to see a white haired woman with kind eyes and a white dress. Anabel's pokémon happily went over to her as she petted them.
Play Zelda's Lullaby
"Who are you?" Anabel said as the woman walked over.
"I am Tsukihime. You may call me Tsuki, Anabel."
Anabel widened her eyes. "How did you know my name?"
Tsuki smiled. "I have been keeping track of my charges. Drew, Ash, Misty everyone that has protected you. Tell me have they told you the story of what they are?"
Anabel shook her head. Tsuki brought her over to a log and began telling the story of the gems and the guardians. (Read the prologue) When the story ended, Anabel looked at Tsuki.
"I don't understand…what does any of this have to do with me?"
Tsuki giggled. "It's because your one of the Knights of the Guardians."
Anabel widened her eyes. "M…me? A…knight?"
Tsuki giggled. "Your ancestors fought alongside Ash's, Misty's and all the rest of their group and others.
Anabel looked away. "B…but I can't be a hero. I feel like a coward relying on everyone."
Tsuki sighed. "Anabel, we all have fears. But it's what you do with that fear is what makes us brave. Here look at the lake.
Anabel took a look and saw her reflection. "I don't see anything other than me."
"Look again." Anabel looked and saw her in an outfit that made her look like a seer. Another wave and she was now seeing herself in a purple princess outfit. She widened her eyes when she saw Ash next to her with their hands intertwined. Then Misty and May were shown with her. Then one last one showed all four with Misty in Ash's lap and Anabel on their right. They were all smiling at each other.
"I…don't understand. May and Misty are with Ash? But I have never him seen before today. Why is it I am so happy with all three?"
Tsuki stood up. "That is for you to figure out." She waved her hand and the images disappeared. Out of the lake a gold belt buckle with a purple deck case appeared.
"Anabel…you have a great destiny ahead of you. Whether you accept it or not will be a test of your bravery." She handed the buckle to Anabel. She started to fade away.
"Wait…what am I supposed to do with this?' Anabel called out as the dream started to fade.
End song
"When the time comes…you will know." Tsuki said as the dream ended.
Anabel woke up early in the morning. She rubbed her eyes stretched her arms. Bringing her arms down she felt something metallic. Looking down she widened her eyes it was the same metal buckle she got from the dream world.
'It wasn't a dream? What does this mean am I supposed to fight with Ash?'
She felt Pikachu stir awake and she quickly placed the buckle in her pocket. She crawled out of the tent. Looking at the amount of light she saw it was still really early in the morning. Looking around she saw Brock was preparing breakfast while Max and May were still sleeping. Tori and Gabby were stirring awake. In the early light their bed head looked like bright fans surrounding them. What confused her was that Tori and Gabby were in the same sleeping bag. Making a count of the bags she found there were four less than people there which made even less sense to her.
Brock noticed her. "Hey Anabel. Glad to see your up."
Anabel nodded and looked around some more. She noticed three figures were missing.
Brock noticed her looking around. "If you're looking for Ash, Drew and Misty, they are over there practicing." Brock said pointing away from the camp.
Anabel nodded and walked in the specified direction.
After a couple of minutes she found them practicing with wooden weapons. She watched as Ash and Drew got into a stance and then began sparring. She watched with amazement as their fluid movements were interlaced with strikes with the wooden weapons. She especially paid attention to Ash as he had removed his jacket and was in a black muscle shirt. She didn't realize it but she was blushing at the sight and involuntarily sighed as her savior spared with his friend.
"Hey there." These words snapped here out her daze and she spun around. It was Misty who was smiling at her reaction. She absently noted her hair was down and she had two water canteens.
"Misty…you scared me." Anabel said calming down. Misty smiled and looked at the sparing duo who's pace had picked up.
"You know something. If you told me three years ago, I would be dating Ash, I would say you were nuts and pounded you with a hammer." Misty said which got Anabel to look at her curiously. "Now I would not know what life without him would be." Misty said holding out the Water Sapphire.
"You're one of the princesses of the Guardians right?"
Misty nodded. "Yes I guess you had a dream about Tsukihime?" At Anabel's nod, Misty sighed but kept her smile. "You are definitely one of the knights then." The two noticed that the spar ended and they were sitting down panting. Misty handed one of the canteens to Anabel. "Anabel." Getting the girl's attention. "He might have me and May, but Ash has a big heart. If you pursue it, we won't stop you. I wouldn't mind another girlfriend or two." Misty said getting a shocked look from the empath. Looking down at the water bottle, she made a vow to herself, 'Ash…I will prove to you and myself I am worthy of you and Misty and May' Anabel said walking over with the canteen. Drew was drinking out of the bottle Misty gave him. Ash was pouting that he didn't get any.
"Uh…Ash." The young man looked up and saw Anabel with another canteen. "Here."
Ash smiled which got Anabel to blush again. "Thanks Anabel." He said taking a gulp and then splashing some water over his head to cool off.
Drew smiled at the interactions. "Isn't that sweet. Come on let's head back to camp. We got a long day ahead of us."
The assembled group nodded and went back to have breakfast. They were soon on the path towards the Battle Tower.
A couple of hours later found them stopping for a break and getting their bearings. Anabel was amazed as Gabby, Drew and Ash took to the trees in this thick forest. They came back down and began to discuss where to go from there.
May who was sitting down next to Anabel, turned to her and asked in a curious tone.
"So Anabel what type of pokémon do you use to battle.
Anabel looked at May. "Well I primarily use psychic types but I have a couple of others I use as well when I have a particularly tough trainer what about you.
May smiled. "Well I have a wide variety of pokémon but I am a coordinator which instead of battling we want to show off our pokémon's beauty and grace in Contest battles.
Anabel looked intrigued but before she could press further, Ash called everyone to keep moving. They sat up and started their journey again.
Another two hours passed again in relative silence before they came across a river. Anabel gasped remembering what this river was.
"Guys we are starting to get close. The Battle Tower is on a lake in which this river gets its water from. If we follow it up we will get there probably within the next day and a half."
Ash smiled. "Alright why don't we eat lunch and then take off for the tower afterwards. Come on out everyone." Ash said releasing his pokémon. The others followed suit. Anabel was amazed at the variety of pokémon.
"Come on Anabel. Why don't you show us your pokémon." Misty called out.
Anabel nodded. "Come out my friends." When the flashes from the poké balls died down it revealed an Espeon, an Alakazam and a Metagross.
"(Whistle) Talk about a tough line up. Those are some powerful partners." Brock said.
May pulled out her pokédex
Alakazam, the Psi Pokémon, and the evolved form of Kadabra. With the brain like a super computer, it possesses many different supernatural powers.
Espeon, the Sun Pokémon. It uses the fine hairs that cover its body to sense air currents and predict an opponent's movement.
Metagross, the Iron Leg Pokémon and the evolved form of Metang. Metagross has four legs and uses many powerful moves.
May looked up and smiled at Anabel. "These must have helped you become one of the Frontier Brains.
Anabel nodded. "Yes. It all started with Espeon when she was an Eevee. Alakazam when he was an Abra was next and then I healed Metagross as a Beldum. These are my closest companions."
May smiled at that. She noticed her Eevee walk up to Espeon and looked curiously at the psychic type. Espeon smiled and nuzzled Eevee which got a happy yelp from him.
May giggled and gently picked up Eevee. Anabel smiled. "You have a strong parental connection to this Eevee."
May smiled and cradled Eevee. "Yes I have been mothering him but I have also been training him pretty well. Though as you have noticed he is a curious little one, aren't you." May said tickling the fox pokémon.
Anabel smiled and closed her eyes. She was amazed at the emotional connection for all of them. Whether it's as partners, companions, friends and parents she couldn't keep the tears from falling.
Misty noticed this and walked up to her. "Hey what's wrong?" She asked curiously.
She opened her eyes and wiped the tears blushing a little bit at the proximity. "Nothing. I am just overwhelmed at the emotional attachment of all of you. Its beautiful."
Misty smiled then was perplexed. "How could you tell that?"
Anabel looked at the rest of the camp "For as long as I could remember I could sense the emotions of pokémon. That's how I was able to befriend my pokémon. My connection is so strong that in battles I could tell them what to do with my emotions."
Ash had the spark in his eyes that said let' battle. "I want to see this in action Anabel."
Anabel looked at Ash and hesitantly nodded.
"Alright I'll ref. One on one okay." Drew said as they walked over to an open area. The spectators noticed that the shy Anabel was replaced by a confident one.
"Wow it's like a switch was flipped. She is a completely different person battling." May noticed.
"I wonder how this emotion battling will do in this battle." Tori said watching the battle curiously.
Ash stood on one side. "If it's okay Anabel I will use Pikachu."
Anabel nodded. "Very well, Espeon my friend time to play." The sun pokémon ran onto the battlefield also looking like a different pokémon.
"Alright let's just see what you can do Anabel, I think five minutes will be enough. Anyone got a stopwatch?"
Max picked up his pokénav and activated the stopwatch. "Ready."
Drew nodded. "Okay, whenever you two are ready you may begin.
"Alright Pikachu, move in with Quick Attack." Pikachu started charging in. To every one's surprise Espeon did the same thing and they became a blur.
"Whoa, I didn't even hear her say anything." Gabby said in wonder.
"This ability is more wonderful than I thought." Misty said.
Ash though looked like he found a great opponent. "Iron Tail Pikachu quickly." Pikachu started charging tail glowing.
On Anabel's side she grinned. She sent her thoughts to Espeon. 'You use your Iron Tail Espeon.' The sun pokémon nodded and her tail glowed. The two Iron Tails collided and the two pokémon reset.
Ash continued to smile. "Man I wish we were at the Battle Tower our battle would be awesome. Now Pikachu use Thunderbolt."
Pikachu nodded and fired off the large bolt.
Anabel though was prepared. 'Espeon use Psychic deflect the bolts.'
Espeon started to glow blue and so did the lightning bolts. The lightning bolts were deflected harmlessly away.
'Now use Zap Canon' Anabel thought to Espeon. Espeon charged up a large ball of energy and fired.
Ash widened his eyes. "Pikachu get out of there." Pikachu saw the attack and got out of the way. Unfortunately the attack was heading towards Ash. Anabel watched with horrified eyes as the attack got closer.
"NO ASH!" Anabel cried out as the dangerous attack barreled towards him. Ash stuck out his hand and to her astonishment he caught the attack. Considering the power of the attack it took some considerable effort to stall the attack taking multiple volts of electricity in the process. He finally threw the attack at the river behind him sending up a blast of water.
Ash sighed. "Damn, that was a powerful jolt." He said shaking his head.
Anabel was shocked. Other than a sizzling in his hair, Ash was unharmed. Ash saw this look and grinned.
"Don't worry Anabel it will take more than that for me to be hurt by lightning. I've be shocked more times than I can count." Ash said with his infectious grin.
Anabel was somewhat satisfied with this but was curious what else her new friends could do.
After lunch was eaten, the group broke away to do their own training. She watch amazed as most of the pokémon broke away to do their own training and watched as they performed their moves. She watched as some of them seem to be working on new moves and watched them try perfect the moves. She saw some of what appeared to be the leaders instructing the younger ones with their moves. They also started to train against each other which to her meant that the pokémon and the trainers had incredible trust to not hurt each other.
Looking around she Drew off to the side practicing shooting flames out of his hands and legs. She was fairly certain he was going to get burned but the control he showed reassured her. Over by the river, Misty and Tori were practicing with the water as the river stopped and started and even bottomed out.
Over in the trees, Gabby was practicing archery which punctured the trees with their power. May was practicing growing plants and then weaving them around her. She was becoming more and more amazed at her new friends.
Looking around she saw Ash practicing with lightning. He looked like he was preparing a new attack. Anabel approached him.
Ash saw her and smiled. "Hey Anabel. Cool stuff huh." He grinned.
Anabel blushed slightly. What was making her act this way around him. "Yes it is amazing. You guys practice this all the time?"
Ash nodded. "Yep. Now I'm working on recreating that Zap Cannon that you inadvertently launched at me."
Anabel's blush deepened and she bowed. "I'm so sorry about that. I didn't know that attack would hit you."
Ash waved it off. "Don't be. It was nothing I've been through worse." Ash said as he began charging up the attack again. He fired and it was too big and couldn't hold itself together.
"Damn too much." Ash sighed.
Anabel steeled up her courage. "Could…could I possibly learn any of this?"
Ash looked at her. He smiled. "Sure you can. Hey Drew." Ash called out.
Drew looked over at Ash. "What's up?"
Ash pointed at Anabel. "She wants to learn how to what we do. We need to do the thing."
Drew nodded and went into his bag. He pulled out a medium size bag with multiple items in it.
"Come on over her Anabel I will show you what to do." Anabel nodded and sat down as Drew placed the items around her.
"Alright now Anabel I want you to close your eyes and send out your personal energy. When I tell you to stop, cease what you're doing and we will tell you what it means.
Anabel nodded and then closed her eyes. She sent out her empath waves and saw in her mind's eye some of them were reacting to her. They floated up around her and held their position.
"Alright stop." Anabel did so. She opened her eyes and saw four things floating. A spoon that was bent out of shape, a magnet, a metal case and a blue gem.
"Wow, four types. Psychic, Electric, Steel and Water." Drew said.
Anabel looked confused. "What does that mean?"
Drew responded. "It means those moves are going to be a lot easier for you to learn and to use. We don't have a lot with steel and psychic abilities but electric and water, well Ash and Misty are the go to on that."
Anabel nodded shyly. "So when this mess is taken care of at the tower we can start training you okay?" Drew asked.
Anabel nodded and in her mind she was glad that Ash and Misty were going to help her. Nothing against May she was a great girl in her opinion but something in Misty drew her to the redhead.
So after figuring out Anabel's elements they started their trek again. This time Anabel stayed close to Ash and blushed when he looked at her. Now Ash as everyone one knew could be dense unless someone came out and said it. But in this case he knew Anabel had a crush on him. A quick word with Misty and May while she was listening to Drew talk about something from his world, relieved him that they weren't trying to keep her away. What's more is that if he was willing, they had no problems with her in their unique relationship. Now Ash was figuring that part out, but the more he was around Anabel, the more he was convinced that she would be a great girlfriend. But he figured like Misty and May he would let her say it. For some reason her shyness away from battle was an endearing quality of hers for him and would be glad for her to come into the relationship.
Now it was getting late and they had stopped again. Looking around they spied a fairly large tree.
"Any volunteers for climbing that tree." Gabby pointed to it.
Ash immediately volunteered. He was about to climb the tree when he turned to Anabel. "Why don't you come on up with me."
Anabel was shocked but she knew he wouldn't let her fall. So they started climbing the tree, Ash helping the girl up the bigger branches. When they got to the top, Anabel was amazed at the few. The sun setting showed the forest in a beautiful light. Anabel burned the memory into her mind. She looked around and gasped. She motioned to Ash.
"Over there its barely there but that's the Battle Tower."
Ash looked and saw the tops of the tower. Looking at the sun he calculated it was to the northwest.
"Alright time to go down." Anabel nodded but was curious as how they would get down.
"Hop on Anabel." Ash said. Anabel looked at him and did so.
Ash looked at her. "I am going to hop down the branches. If you're scared you can close your eyes."
Anabel nodded and closed her eyes. She felt the wind pass by her as they dropped from the branch. She opened her eyes slightly as she watched her crush leapt from branch to branch. She snuggled against his back to protect her from the wind. She felt him hit the ground and she opened her eyes. She stepped off as Ash went over to Drew.
"So what did you see?" Drew asked.
"We saw the Battle Tower. It was about maybe half a day away to the Northwest. We need to be wary of ambushes. Set up camp. We need to set up shifts tonight in case something comes." Ash said taking command of the situation.
"Exactly what I was thinking. Come on guys let's get the camp set up." Drew said as the group started setting up the camp. After a couple of hours they drew straws on shifts. Ash took the first shift with May. Gabby had the second shift with Tori. Misty took the third shift and Anabel volunteered to be with her and Drew and Brock were on the fourth and last shift.
With everyone sleeping May and Ash were sitting by the fire as it started to dwindle.
"So Ash what do you think of Anabel?" May asked from his right.
Ash looked at her and then back at the fire. "She is a great person to be around. I don't know why but it feels right to be around her. Just as it feels right to be around you and Misty."
May scooted closer. "So what's keeping you from making a move on her."
Ash wrapped an arm around her. "I sensed her doubt, her nervousness when I discreetly scanned her. She feels like she has to earn my affection. (Chuckles) I guess that's why I like having her around.
"So if I say, we don't mind sharing her…" May said with a mischievous look.
"Then all that's left for Anabel is to confront me." Ash said smiling
May smiled and they started kissing each other. After a minute, they separated and the brunette snuggled into Ash.
"Sound like we will have a new bedmate before too long." May said sighing. "Growing up might stink but I think a positive thing is that we can develop our feelings properly." May continued. "That and I think being older will offer us an opportunity to explore each other." May said in a voice that Ash had not heard from her, causing him to sputter. "Don't worry, I don't think we are emotionally ready for that yet. Maybe when we are older like I said." May said giggling at his reaction
Ash calmed down and they continued to keep watch until it was time to change shifts. Nothing happened in Tori and Gabby's shift as they played cards to pass the time. When it came to for Misty and Anabel to take their turn, Misty had to giggle at Anabel's reluctance to wake up. But she did so and now they were watching the sky as the fire went out during the previous shift.
Anabel looked over at the red head who was starting to doze off and she shook her. This was the wrong thing to do as Misty's eyes snapped open and grabbed the purple haired girl's hand.
Anabel cried out and this woke Misty up. She let go and Anabel backed away.
"Oh Anabel I'm so sorry." Misty said horrified as she took a step closer to the girl.
"No…it's my fault I didn't expect that." Anabel said a little hesitantly. Misty walked over and examined her hand. She looked at the part she grabbed and already a bruise was starting to form.
"Sorry…I bruise a little easily." Anabel said.
Misty waved her hand and grabbed the canteen she had. She waved her hand and a small ball of water was taken out. She carried it over to the other girl who looked curious.
"Don't worry, this is a small part of manipulating water. I can heal small wounds with it. Tori is our medic right now but I don't want to disturb her over this. Now this might be a little cold."
Misty placed her hand which was coated in water on Anabel's wrist. Anabel shivered slightly at the coolness but she started to enjoy it.
Misty healed the bruises and then dissipated the water. "There we go all better." Misty said with a smile. She rubbed the spot where the bruises were getting a blush from the girl. "Your skin is soft. I almost feel like I am breaking it." Misty said. She and Anabel sat down near a stump. "Your almost doll like that I am afraid to squeeze too much." Misty said hugging her close. "I feel the need to protect you from everything." Misty said rubbing her hair. "Ash is so protective of us you know. But we train hard so we don't have to worry about that. In the end, all that matters is we see him every day." Misty said looking up at the sky. They heard branches breaking and Misty reached over to her trident. After a couple of tense moments she relaxed. "That's the scariest thing in my mind. I thought I lost him several times in the past. But I must be brave for my friends' sake." She turned to the purple haired girl. "There are times to be brave and times to be afraid. It's when you chose to be brave when you're afraid that one of the sources of true power comes from." Misty said holding her hand over the empath's heart. She kissed Anabel's forehead which got her to blush.
Anabel sputtered. "I…don't know what to say to that. But thank you."
Misty smiled. "You'll understand one day." She looked at the sky. "Looks like it's time to change shifts. Keep what I said in mind alright?" Anabel nodded as Misty went to wake up Brock and Drew.
Anabel looked at where Misty placed her hands. She clasped her hands together relishing the warmth from the hands. 'Misty…Ash…I will become brave for you.
Hours later
They had made good time to the Battle Tower having not found any of the patrols they were worried of.
They started scouting the tower and the surrounding land. Anabel noticed that her friends had gotten completely serious as they scouted out the tower. She was amazed that her friends could be that serious. She stood by as they prepared themselves to take back her tower..
Gabby was looking through her binoculars at the tower. Drew walked up to her.
"What do you see?" Drew asked her.
"About ten soldiers out front. A few more on the side." Gabby said looking at him.
Drew nodded. He looked up and saw Max landed after scouting the back of the complex.
"Well?"
Max pointed at the back. "It is just as guarded in the back. I think they know we're coming."
Drew groaned. "Great. Let's just go through the side and see if we can find a window."
Over with Ash, the Aura riders were checking their weapons. Anabel walked over to them.
"You are serious about fighting these guys?" Anabel asked concerned.
Ash nodded. "Yes we are. This man doesn't mess around. Don't worry we will protect ya." Ash said smiling.
Anabel couldn't keep the smile of her face. She looked at Raikou which was on Ash's lap. "May I see your sword."
Ash looked at her and nodded. Anabel hesitantly took the sword and looked at it. From her perspective it looked really sharp. Closing her eyes she could see the spirit of the sword. Instead of trying to attack her it was purring. She giggled at it. At Ash's confused look she replied. "Your sword. The spirit is purring like a Skitty its funny."
Ash made a sound of understanding. Before he could make a comment Drew walked up. "Alright guys time to go. Anabel stay close to us." Drew said as they got together to discuss the plan.
At the tower
Three soldiers were guarding were walking on one of the sides of the tower. Two of them lined up right next to each other. Just as they were about turn around they were shot through the head. The third one turned around and was instantly met by a trident to the head. The bodies disintegrated as the group came out of the bushes.
"Alright, Max, May, Gabby you know what to do." Drew said. They nodded. Max placed his staff down and Gabby stood next to him. With an overhead swing Gabby was launched up to a window ledge and she landed. With a small knife she cut a hole in the window and reached it. Unlatching the window she waved for Max. Max nodded and turned to May who got in position. A quick glance for the guards and May was launched up. May landed and Gabby steadied her. He quickly held out her hands and whispered.
VINE WHIP.
Four long vines lowered and those in the bushes ran towards the walls. With a nod, Tori and Max went up first. With a heave May pulled them up to the third floor window. They reached the ledge and they climbed inside.
May lowered the vines again and Brock and Misty went up next. When they lowered the vine Ash convinced Drew to go next saying something about Anabel not being used to it. Drew nodded and with a tug he was away. May having heard what was going from Drew lowered all four vines again. Ash pulled Anabel close getting a blush and wrapped all four vines around them.
"Alright Anabel, wrap your arms around me." Anabel's face resembled a tomato but did so. "Alright on the count of three we are going to go. Ready?"
Anabel nodded and squeezed him. "One…two…three!" He pulled the vine and they were whisked up. After a few seconds they were on the ledge. With a gentle prodding Anabel reluctantly let go of Ash.
"Alright infiltration successful now what?" Max asked.
Anabel got their attention. "This place is seven floors. The first is a reception area the next several are for training and for battle tournaments. Only the top floor is used for my challenges. I was able to escape using the stairs, though my Espeon helped too."
May put a hand up to her chin. "So where we would they put any captives they might have?"
"Two places come to mind. On top near the boss or near the bottom in a basement." Drew said.
"This place has a storage room downstairs. They could be held there." Anabel mused.
"Alright two groups. Anabel go with Ash, Brock, May and Tori. Head up stairs. Misty, you me, Max and Gabby are going to go downstairs. Stay safe all of you." Drew said as they split up. Unbeknownst to them, Glenn had known they had infiltrated the tower. He grinned as they split up.
"Perfect. With my new creature, and them splitting up, I can capture them and force them to give up the empath. Now then Copy Blob go after the ones downstairs."
The monster who was purple like a Ditto, bowed. "Yes, Master." The voice changed to a female's voice as a copy of Gabby appeared with a sinister grin.
Downstairs
The group of four had found the storage room. They looked around and saw that the storage room was empty.
"Looks like my hunch paid off. Come on let's go." Drew said as the others followed him out.
When they got upstairs they encountered several troops coming off the elevator.
"Grr…Try to find a way around them." Drew yelled out as they started to fight off the attacking soldiers.
Max fought off six off them when sense an approaching figure. He turned and saw Gabby approaching her.
"Gabby, come on don't be like your boyfriend." Max said turning around.
"Yeah of course." 'Gabby' said. When Max turned around 'Gabby' grinned sinisterly. With a quick whap to the head Max was knocked out. 'Gabby' then morphed into 'Max' and chuckled. "Too easy." 'Max' said as he snuck around.
Misty had just cleared her group when she noticed Max coming up on her.
"Max let's go we need to meet up with the others." Misty said. 'Max' said nothing as he approached her. Before she could respond he kicked her legs and cover Misty's mouth. With a small tug he knocked her out. Transforming again he looked and saw that some of the troops he had, had grabbed Max and were now picking up Misty. He also saw they had Gabby. He grinned at that and sought to grab the remaining person.
Drew was having a difficult time fighting off this many troops.
"Guys I could get some help." Drew called out deflecting another blade. When he got no response he turned around and saw that they weren't there. The soldiers quickly surrounded him. He heard chuckling and saw a purple monster walking up to him. What stunned him was that his friends were being shouldered like a potato bags.
"So Kamen Rider what are you going to do? Your surrounded and your outnumbered. Might I suggest surrendering otherwise I can't guarantee their safety."
Drew growled and then sighed. He sheathed his sword and held up his hands.
"Good, but I can't exactly have you figuring a way out of master's plans. So nighty night." With that one of the soldiers knocked him out.
Copy Blob tapped his radio. "My lord four of the riders are captured. What are your orders?"
"Bring them and the other prisoners to the top floor we are moving on to phase 2."
"Yes my lord." Blob said. He motioned the minions to follow him to the elevator.
Up on the fifth floor stairs., Ash and his group were making their way up the stairs. They had cleared the floors and were slightly winded. Who knew they had this many troops in the tower. As they climbed the stairs Anabel felt a pain in her head.
"Anabel are you okay?" May asked concerned.
Anabel shook her head. "Yeah I'm fine." She said while thinking. 'I have been getting conflicting energies what is the meaning of this?'
Before they could proceed they heard the speakers come to life.
"Well…well Guardians. So nice to see you again."
Ash tensed and then growled. "Glenn, what do you want?"
"I bet you're wondering what I want. What I want is the Empath that escaped this lovely tower. In exchange I will set the prisoners free. Including four people you might be familiar with. A certain red head, a blonde with an attitude a little boy and your proverbial leader.
The group widened their eyes. They had their friends.
"Max oh no!" May said with worry and though they were silent the worry was evident on everyone's face.
"One Hour you either bring the girl to me or your friends suffer." The intercom died down.
"I know one thing we aren't giving Anabel up." Brock said. The others agreed. Anabel was shocked. They would protect her even though she is what they want. She had to voice her opinion.
"Guys…I'm not worth it. Just let me hand myself in—" Ash interrupted her holding out his arm
"Out of the question! Anabel you are not going to give yourself up." Ash said. "You're our friend we are not going to give you without a fight."
Anabel teared up. "Please don't get hurt for my sake."
May put a hand on her shoulder. "It's what we do. Just trust us. We will get out of this somehow."
The group continued quietly up the stairs. They reached the sixth floor and the only way up to the 7th was an elevator. Ash turned to Anabel. "Stay here. We will be back for you." He said. The riders got on the elevator and in Anabel's eyes they were going to their deaths.
Upon the elevator opening the stadium lights were lit up. They saw on the other side of the battlefield stood Glenn. On either side of him were Scott, the tower attendants and their friends tied up.
"Max!" May called out. Max looked up and they could see he went through a rough time no doubt he was annoying them.
Max chuckled. "Hey May. We had a bit of tough time finding them. Looks like we did."
Glenn growled and kicked him. "Shut up brat. Now then Riders I see you don't have the empath. Well that's too bad. Men start with the young boy.
The riders who weren't captured pulled out their belts but May being absolutely livid at this point ignored Ash's words of protest as she ran belt in position.
HENSHIN
EVOLVE
Kamen Rider Kusa appeared pulling out her blade. She charged at Glenn intent on freeing Max. Only to be blocked. Her eyes widened behind her helmet as an exact copy of her armor blocking her.
Glenn chuckled. "I see you have met my newest monster. This is Copy Blob. I based it off the copy pokémon Ditto. I programed with the attributes and abilities of all you riders. Now see your strength turned against you. Minions get them." Glenn called out as they charged. Ash and Tori quickly activated their belts.
HENSHIN
EVOLVE/KAMEN RIDE: SIRIUS
Aura and Sirius appeared and they quickly started fighting them off. Meanwhile May and her clone started to clash swords. It was evident that while May had skill her opponent could match her stride for stride. This became apparent when she started using her cards.
RAZOR LEAF
She fired the leaf based attack but her doppelganger just countered with a Razor Leaf of her own. Before May could retaliate, Copy Blob was on her with a glowing Focus Punch. A large crack was heard as Kusa was launched into the bleachers.
Aura saw this and panicked as the impact from the blows de armored May. Before he could go help her, he saw the doppelganger change into him and they began trading blows. Glenn watch all of this with glee this was working out better than he thought.
Downstairs
Anabel was pacing the corridor in worry and in crisis. She was worrying over her friends. The pulse felt before she realized that their friends were taken. Now she felt a larger pulse as she felt one of them in pain. She continued to struggle with what to do.
"I can't turn myself in. That will make all they tried to do to protect me meaningless. If I don't do anything they are going to seriously hurt them. What do I do?" Anabel said collapsing to her knees. Hearing her master's distress, Espeon released herself and consoled the upset girl.
"Espeon…thank you. But what am I going to do girl?" Anabel said folding up her legs. "I'm scared to do anything. My friends are being hurt because of me and I am a coward." Anabel said in frustration.
She then remembered what Misty said.
Flashback
"There are times to be brave and times to be afraid….It's when you choose to be brave when you're afraid that's source of true power."
End Flashback
"True power comes from bravery." Anabel pondered. She looked over at Espeon. "Come on girl. Time to face my fears." Anabel said walking over to the elevator. Espeon nodded and they climbed aboard.
Upstairs things were grim. All the non-captured riders were now tied up. Glenn laughed outright.
"You foolish riders all you had to do was turn over the empath. But now I am going to take great pleasure in destroying you." Glenn said walking in front of him.
Ash spat at him. "Like we would turn Anabel over to you willingly. When we get out of this we are kicking your monster's butt."
Glenn snarled and punched him across the head.
Drew was about to comment when the elevator door dinged. They all turned and saw the doors open to reveal Anabel and Espeon.
Glenn laughed. "So your belief in your friend brought her to me hehehe"
Ash looked over at Anabel. "Anabel what the heck we told you to stay put."
"Anabel please get out of here." Tori cried out.
"Anabel run this isn't safe!" May cried out.
Anabel shook her head. "I am not going to run. You protected me. Now it's my turn. You ugly." Glenn looked cross but didn't say anything. "You wanted me. You have me. Just let them go."
Glenn smiled. "Very well. Copy Blob go get her."
"Yes sir." Blob answered and walked towards her.
Anabel watched him approach. She drowned out the protests her friends made as the monster got close.
'Misty…May…Max…Gabby…Drew….Tori…Brock…Ash. Thank you' A heartbeat sounded as her captor came close.
'Ash if I don't do this then you will be hurt I can't have that on my conscious.' Another heartbeat as the monster slowed to a stop.
'I know why I am doing this…I love you Ash. That's why I am willing to sacrifice myself.' Images of their short journey together flashed through her as the monster held on his hands. The heartbeat was heard again. Just as the monster reached out to touch her a light started to glow around her which forced the monster back.
Glenn snarled. "WHAT SORCERY IS THIS?
The group widened their eyes in astonishment. Their thoughts were similar.
'No way Anabel' May and Misty
'Awesome she is a rider.' Max and Tori
'Go figure the shy girl is one of us.' Ash and Gabby
'I knew meeting her was fated. She had all of this power in her. All it took was a little courage.' Drew
When the light died down Anabel held a belt buckle in her hands. She looked down and then gained the confident smirk from her battle with Ash. She held out her hand.
"Espeon let's go my friend." Espeon nodded and jumped up. As she did so she shrank until she was a card. Grabbing it out of the air, she quickly slotted the card in. A belt made of cards went around her waist linking up around her.
A pulsing sound was heard as Anabel raised her hands up palms forward arms together. She raised her arms to eye level almost like a third eye.
Hen-SHIN
She twisted her arms 180 degrees and brought her right hand down to the lever on the buckle while closing the left hand.
EVOLVE
The buckle opened reveling a purple background with a black outline of an eye. The shield went up and knocked her opponent back. The shield came back and enclosed Anabel. When the shield died down, Anabel was in a purple and white suit. White striping went from her shoulders to her waists. Her helmet looked like an Espeon's with a red jewel on the forehead and the elf like ears out the side with black eyes.
Glenn snarled again. "Get her!" Copy Blob nodded and charged changing into Orion with her knives. Anabel jumped back and felt for a weapon. She felt two on her back side pulling them out. She saw what appeared to be knives, but Anabel noticed they were folded up. Unfolding them they revealed two purpled colored chakrams about half the size of her. (Think Axel's from Kingdom Hearts except in purple.) The clone Orion charged and she could barely get the chakrams up in time to block. It became a dance in which Anabel tried to block all of the slashes with the big sized blades.
Off to the side the others were watching this fight with concern.
"Anabel needs help but how?" May asked.
Drew thought about it then realized something. "If that thing has our strengths it also has our weaknesses."
Gabby nodded. "Anabel, Orion is a long range fighter, it does not have a lot physical defense."
Anabel nodded and deflected the knife away and caused the hunter to stumble. She pulled out a card which had her Alakazam and scanned it on her belt.
FOCUS PUNCH
Anabel's right glowed and nailed the clone hard. It was sent stumbling back. Growling he changed to Kusa and powered up a Focus Punch of its own.
May was quick to respond. "Lower body is strong, upper body is weak."
Anabel quickly scanned another card this time with her Metagross.
IRON DEFENSE
Her armor took on a metallic sheen as she took the hit leaving a crater. Anabel quickly scanned another Metagross card.
METEOR MASH
Glowing again her fist connected hard into the stomach which sent it sliding back. Growling again it turned into Zodiac
Drew sighed. "Hate to admit this, outside of one of my current forms I am not that fast."
Anabel scanned two of her cards of her faithful Espeon.
QUICK ATTACK
IRON TAIL
With a roar he charged a flame sword at Anabel. Anabel using her speed granted by Espeon's Quick Attack she dodged the slashes. Quickly she folded the chakrams into a two bladed lance. The lances glowing she started she slashed at the back of him. Dancing around she managed to get six strong strikes across the back and ducked away as her opponent slashed at her. Copy Blob was started to get tired and it showed as the change from Zodiac to Aura.
Ash about to shout but Glenn kicked him before he could say anything. Misty though was able to get her words in.
"Aura focuses so much on speed his defense is lacking especially up front."
Anabel nodded and separated the chakrams. Folding them they became a pair of short swords about half the length of her arms. The Aura copy attacked and Anabel countered with her swords. The speed shown by Aura was impressive but the main issue was that he was starting to swing wildly. Anabel used this and dodged the wild attacks. This continued for a minute until the Aura copy swung and got the blade stuck in the ground. Anabel took advantage and swung several quick strike then kicked him away. Unfolding her blade back into her chakram forms she spun and launched both. They both bisected the monster and knocked him down. The sparking monster started going through several different forms as he sparked and electrified. Anabel noticed two cards glowing. She took them and scanned them.
PSYCHIC: MAXIMUM ENERGY
ZAP CANNON: MAXIMUM ENERGY
COMBO: SHOCKER CANNON
Anabel put the Psychic card in one of the chakrams and threw it. It expanded and ensnared Copy Blob. It hoisted him up and went behind him, holding him with psychic energy. Anabel inserted the Zap Cannon card into the other. It too expanded until it was bigger than her. The chakram started spinning gathering energy into its edges. Once enough was added she lined up with other chakram which sent lines that connected with the other. With a loud shout she unleashed the attack. From both ends the attack came offering no recourse for the monster as it was vaporized by the electrical attack.
Glenn was livid as his plans were ruined. "NO, you little bastard! I will destroy you riders one day!" Glenn said opening a portal and leaving with his surviving minions left.
Anabel sighed and went to cut her friends loose. When she cut Ash loose he stood up and gently hugged her.
"Don't scare us like that!" Ash scolded her gently. "But thank you." Ash said.
"Uh…thanks. But uh…hehehe…how do I remove this." Anabel said gesturing to her armor."
Ash chuckled. "I got it." Ash said as he showed her how to deactivate the belt and pulled out the card. Instantly she returned to normal and Espeon returned to its natural form.
"Thanks." Anabel said.
Drew and the others walked over. "So Anabel. You're our new rider huh? Guess we need to name your form."
Anabel raised her hand. "Uh…may I make a suggestion?" Anabel said. They turned to her. "I was thinking Kyokan. It just came to me…it means empathy." Anabel said a little shakily.
"Kyokan, huh? That sounds perfect for you." Misty said.
Anabel nodded then wavered on her feet. Ash quickly caught her. "Whoa…what happened?" She asked wearily
"It's alright. That's just the adrenaline from using so much power and not being used to it. You might be a little weak for a while." May said with a smile.
Ash adjusted his hold and was carrying Anabel bridal style. "Can you…train me to be stronger?" Anabel said looking away with a blush.
Ash grinned "Of course, now I think a long day deserves a nice rest. Do you have a place near here?"
Scott got their attention. "She does. I know where it is." They all followed them out towards Anabel's house. Anabel though snuggled into Ash's chest and closed her eyes smiling that she would become strong.
Hours Later
When they got to Anabel's house they put her on her bed after seeing she had fallen asleep. A couple of hours later she came back down after her nap. She was sore from the power but was glad to see everyone okay. Anabel asked Ash to visit her room before he went to bed. Ash nodded and they discussed where they were going after they rested.
Now Anabel was sitting on her bed nervous. She was in light purple pajamas and her hair was brushed slightly. She was waiting on Ash who promised to talk to her before he went to bed. She was aware Misty and May slept in the same bed as him now so she hoped to not break that up tonight.
A knock on the door shook her from her thoughts. Anabel walked up to the door and opened it. There stood the man of her affections in sleep shorts and a muscle shirt.
"Hey Anabel." He said with a smile.
"Hey Ash…come in." Anabel said motioning him in. Closing the door behind them Anabel stood looking just as nervous as she was before. The tension was a little thick so Ash cleared his throat.
"Anabel, what did you want to talk about?"
Anabel sighed and gathered her courage. "Ash…when I saw you picture in the file I had on you two for the Battle Tower, I felt strange. Not foreboding strange, but Butterfree in my stomach strange. When you rescued me I felt like a princess being saved from the dragons. When I saw that you were in a relationship with Misty and May I felt heartbroken but Misty encouraged me to see your heart. When we traveled together it was some of the happiest times I ever had in my life. I got to know you but I had to…I had to prove myself that I could stand with you." Anabel said starting to tear up. Ash saw this but felt it was best for her to let it out.
"When you were captured protecting me, I felt my heart burst. I didn't want that. I didn't want you sacrificing yourselves for me. It gave me the courage to do what I did. When I did…that power was amazing. I beat them with all of your help and you promised me I would become strong." Anabel was openly crying now. "All of this convinced me of one thing." Ash leaned in to listen.
"I…love you damn it. You captured my heart and I was too scared to say anything. You don't want a girl who is scared to confess her feelings." Anabel said looking down and openly weeping and her eyes closed. Anabel felt a hand on her chin. Opening her eyes she saw devotion in them.
Ash whispered as he leaned in close. "That's all I needed to hear." Anabel widened her eyes as Ash's lips captured hers. They quickly closed as she surrendered to Ash willingly. He fell back on to the bed as they continued to kiss. They finally released to see each other's eyes.
Ash saw more tears in her beautiful amethyst eyes and wiped them. "No more sad tears. Only happy tears from now on okay Anabel?"
Anabel teared up more and nodded. They were so lost in their world that they didn't register two more weights on the bed. A touch on his hand brought them out. They turned to see Misty and May in their sleepwear.
"Hey you two." Misty giggled.
"Room for two more here." May asked smiling.
Ash grinned. "Of course. You don't mind do you Anabel."
Said girl looked at the two and nodded. "Of course anything for you Ash." She said smiling.
"Good. Now the first thing to know about these two that they are ticklish." Ash said with mischief in his eyes
"Ash don't you dare." Misty warned but Ash ignored her. "Misty is really ticklish under her armpits while May has a tickly tummy."
"Anabel can we talk about this?" May said backing away but Anabel was quicker and grabbed her. Ash quickly grabbed Misty and the next thirty minutes there was extreme laughter as they tickled each other pink. After the time past that sat exhausted and panting. Ash was on the pillows, May was on his left Anabel was on his right with Misty hugging her close.
"Ash…" Anabel said sleepily. The three looked at her. "Thank you…for making me brave." She said yawning and snuggling in close. The three smiled at that. "We didn't do anything you already had Anabel." May said reaching out with her hand. Anabel grasped it and held it over Ash's heart. Misty started petting her hair as the group content in the embrace fell asleep.
Early the next morning Anabel groaned awake. She opened her eyes wondering why her pillow was warm. She looked around and her eyes cleared to see Ash with his goofy smile sleeping on the pillows. Looking across his slightly muscled chest she saw May also with a smile on her face grasping her hand over his chest. Feeling arms around her she turned her head and saw Misty's red hair over her shoulder. She smiled sleepily, something felt right about this relationship and the way they were set up. Looking out the window, the sun hadn't come up yet so she laid her head down and started tracing her figure around. She felt movement beneath her as saw a slightly tanned arm grasp her hand.
"Hey." Misty said quietly knowing Ash and May weren't early risers. "You sleep well?" She asked.
Anabel hummed. "Best night I ever had." Anabel replied just as quiet with a smiled.
Misty nodded in agreement. "It always is when they have someone to love."
Anabel looked at May who scrunched her face and then nuzzled her face closer.. "I may have to get used to this but I feel with some time, I can grow to love you two as well."
Misty smiled. "I can live with that. Come on its still early." Misty said squeezing Anabel closer.
"I wasn't kidding what I said earlier. Your just so huggable like a teddy bear. Hope you don't mind." Misty said falling back asleep.
Anabel felt her fall asleep. Looking at Ash she snuggled in. "No…I will never mind." She said closing her eyes.
Hours later the group was getting ready to head out.
"Ash…Drew before we depart I would like to give you something as my final act as the Salon Maiden of the Battle Tower." Anabel said.
"So you were serious about this Anabel. No worries I have a couple in mind to take over for ya." Scott said.
Anabel walked over and held out her hand. Two golden symbols were shown in her palm.
"Anabel…what are you doing? We didn't earn this." Drew said.
Anabel shook her head. "You did when you risked your lives for my sake. I present to you the Ability symbol as appreciation for saving me and the tower."
Ash and Drew looked at each other and nodded. They took the symbols and decided to not do their poses.
"Thank you Anabel. You sure you want to come with us?" Ash asked.
Anabel nodded. Drew sighed. "Another member of merry little band. So Scott where's the last facility?"
"I just called the man that runs the Battle Pyramid. It is currently outside Pewter City here I will send you the coordinates."
Max received them and they all waved good bye to Scott.
Ash looked at Anabel. "I'm glad you're with us Anabel it's going to be fun."
Anabel giggled and took his hand. "Where ever you three are is fun enough for me." Anabel said. She let go. "Race you there." Anabel said starting to pick up her pace.
Ash looked gob smacked. Misty and May giggled and started chasing after her. Ash shook off from his stupor and laughed chasing them.
Drew groaned good naturedly. "Why do you guys insist on running?" He said as the all ran to catch up to the those who got a head start. They were laughing all the way with Anabel in front as the image freeze on their smiling faces.
A new rider and a new friend/girlfriend has been found in the form of the former Frontier Brian Anabel. What will happen as they hit the road to the last facility in the Battle Frontier? Find out on the Journeys of the Dreamer.
A/N: End of Chapter
UO: I thought about doing a omake and here we go. Inspired from a blooper on Rush Hour 2
Omake:
Drew sighed. "Another member of our merry little band. So Scott" before he could ask a question a phone was ringing. Drew realized it was his. He answered.
"Hello" the cast looked at him curiously.
"No dad we are almost done filming." The cast started giggling.
"Wait who else is there?" Drew turned to Ash. "It's for you."
"Hello. Mom stop asking me that." The whole crew started laughing.
"Your wasting our film." he winced at the tone of voice. "Sorry mom. I will call you later. Love you too. Put Mr. smith back on." Ash said in a defeated tone.
Drew took the phone. "No I do not know when you will be back on. Stop wasting our film. Yes this is just like Rush Hour 2 and I am Chris Tucker. Call me back at six. Love you too." He hung up and saw the cast laughing. "I will be in my trailer."
End of omake
Finally done with this chapter. Super Bowl 48 stunk with Peyton laying an egg. Anyway
Kamen Rider Kyokan: This new rider is the base form of Anabel's armor. Her powers revolve around psychic and empath abilities. Her weapons of choice are chakrams that as explained are like Axel's from Kingdom Hearts. Her specialty is long range support.
Preview: As the riders head to the Battle Pyramid, they find May's last possible contest for the Grand Festival. Then one of the riders goes down sick and it's up to two less trumpeted riders to win the day. Finally arriving at Pewter City sees a conflict in Brock's family. When they are attacked who will rise? Find out.
Next chapter: Summer Stress and sickness.
Alright now please check out the stories Spartan719, Kage Bijuu, Code-Emperor07 and new author Vanishing Raptor. You won't be disappointed.
Next update from me is Bleach Grand Prix. Review that and all my stories kindly. Tell me how I did with the Omake. Charizard will eat all flamers.
OSPREY…SWOOOSH