Sorry, we know we're kinda late! Had our laptop taken away XD. Somebody just had to lose their temper at the mall with a certain clerk and possibly got in a little fight with him. Mall security basically took us in and kicked us out. To make up for it, we cracked down on chapter 6 and got about ten pages done so when it's finished (which is soon), we'll post it immediately afterwards!
Story of the week spotlight goes to:
"The Silent Kingdom" by Freedan the Eternal, a rated T Romance/Adventure story (very long, guys like, +900k words) set in the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. It's a great fanfic with little to no mistakes in grammar or anything like that featuring just the right balance of comedy, action, and of course, romance with a little angst in between it all. It's a finished story so you don't have to worry about updates so if you're interested, find it and give it a read!
Shoutouts goes to the following: imotolucy, tyler27872 (this person favorited/followed all of our stories so applaud for them XD), and of course, AGuyWithNoSkills (who has reviewed every chapter so far :) NoSkills, sorry for not replying to the latest one!)
And now, a word from my cowriter. Ever since I mentioned the whole mall incident, he's been seething.
Nyx: Hello, mates! Just one thing, fuck bloody clerks who stare at their phone and talk instead of scanning our shit so we can pay and leave. Fuck. Them. Bye now! Sorry for our lateness, we're making up for it. Hope you like the references we put in there, see if you can spot them all. Love you all and hope you're having an ace day!
He's still pissed guys XD ANYWAYS, enjoy the chapter (hopefully, it's not bad). Read, review (if you'd like) and enjoy...Said that already. Darn, messed up the flow!
Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon, Nintendo does, neither do we own any other character we may or may not borrow from random franchises (Need to put that there more often or else, we might get in trouble XD) .
Chapter 5: Attack
With Ryker…
Ryker didn't know what to think as Roxanne fell asleep against his side. He had spent many years hiding his emotions, burying them. He had always kept his guard up and to many, he was an unknown. But now, it all came crashing down on him. Roxanne, a girl who had only spent a short while with him so far, just walked right past his wall just from him muttering two sentences? Shaking his head, Alpha rested his head on his forelegs. On the contrary to her claims, he wasn't so nice as she thought him out to be. He genuinely didn't care a single damn about others save for a select few. To put it simply, if he were to be walking down the road and someone was being mugged, would he or would he not help? The answer was simple.
If the person being mugged affected him in any way in the future, sure. If not, then good luck to the one being mugged.
It was as simple as that. So why? Why can she not tell? Why does she not leave me be, knowing that I am not a very amiable individual. Glancing at her, he saw her cuddling with his tail and he almost left the area right there. And leaning on me, let alone sleeping on me...Is that not only close individuals partake in? Family, friends, or lovers?
And she wasn't the only one. He thought of how Hugh and Aurora had been trying to slip between the cracks in his wall as well. Even when he pushed away their social advances, gave them his usual cold stares to deter them from involve him in anything more than they needed him to be. He had even decided to sleep outside rather than share the house with them (even though that was actually a personal preference)! Did that not give them the hint that he'd rather be left alone when he could? Or that he was simply not open to any kinds of social relationships save for mentor and trainee d due to the current situation? It was all confusing to him. For years, he had been keeping to himself. He still was. And in all those years, his personality and behaviors constantly pushed away everyone who tried getting close. In all honesty, he was pleased at the fact that he could do that. He was a lone wolf, literally, he didn't need friends or lovers to get things done.
So why, all of a sudden, was it different now? Opening his eyes once more, he studied Roxanne again. She looked awfully comfortable and content sleeping against him like that. It was a complete turnaround from how she usually kept her distance from him in the previous days. She had implied that he was a friend when she gave him permission to use her nickname earlier, or an acquaintance, at least. ...Am I her friend? Does she consider me one because I remind her of her old friend? Ryker's mind was hard at work. Aside from whether or not he considered her a friend as well, he was also thinking about her nickname. Roxy...He frowned, it had a familiar yet, foreign lilt to it. He found that for some reason, he rather liked the nickname.
In any case, it was another thing to add on the peculiarities he had felt ever since their first meeting. And they were all similar. She was either familiar or foreign, the line between the two was drawn so very close when it came to her. Roxanne looked familiar, but she didn't. Perhaps he knew someone who looked similar in the past? If that was the case, then there was nothing he could do about that due to his repressed memories. The same went with her familiar/foreign behavior and personality as well as her appearance and traits.
Now the question was simple: Should he push her and the others away like he always had with the people he came across, or should he simply let it happen and see what happens from there? Normally, the choice would be simple, for it never changed. Hell, he would be gone from the vicinity by this time. But now, the question seemed to be a lot more difficult. This is...troublesome. Ryker thought. I do not want company, I hate company.
No. It wasn't that he hated company, he was afraid of it. He feared the betrayal that might come from it. Lies, deceit, manipulation. With his repressed memory, he only knew that the people who knew his family were full of them. Shaking his head, Ryker thought of his years of service to the Arceus. On a few of his previous quests or missions, he had been double-crossed in some way or form, by someone. It was mainly the reason why he preferred to work alone when it came to the assignments the two Arceus gave him, why he did mostly assassinations to those the two deities considered threats.
Trust no one, only trust those who wouldn't get you killed.
He came to live by that principle for a while now. It worked out for him, so why stray from it? "...no..the chickens...why'd you cut off their heads...they still run around…" Roxanne muttered in her sleep. Ryker suddenly felt...amused. Positively amused.
You're smiling. Ryker instantly developed a cold expression, his eyes revering the Arceus floating before him in respect. Aw, where did it go? The Fenrir didn't even realize that he was smiling before, though his muzzle did feel strained as if it went through something strenuous.
Is there something we need to discuss, Milady? Ryker asked.
Can't I visit the Fenrir I consider my son and talk? she asked, smirking. Ryker briefly dropped his expression, a ghost of a smile creasing his features, before it disappeared.
So this is not a visit on business then?
Not really. Jeanne floated to the ground and lay on her stomach. Well, one question, actually. How are they doing so far?
The two are doing significantly well for humans, training should not be too much of a mountain to climb. I would say that these two are your fastest learners yet. They will be strong and loyal. Ryker then glanced at Roxanne. They have nigh unbreakable will and high determination. They will become great Knights should they pass your final test.
I'm glad to hear that. Jeanne then prodded his shoulder before he went into deep thought. How are you, Ryker? Ryker instinctively raised his guard, his eyes becoming cold as he answered.
I am as fine as I can be. The Fenrir thought that it was almost the perfect answer when it came to questions questioning his overall health or situation. With those words, he wouldn't be lying. If he was secretly dying and someone were to ask him how he was, those words would still work. It would mean that in his current condition, the example being dying, he was in top condition as he could be while dying. No one can call him out on lying, for he wouldn't be, and with that answer, it was subtle enough to make the asker believe everything was alright.
But of course, Ryker thought, it was harder to do with Jeanne. You can't get much past her.
Good to hear. Jeanne told him after a moment of silence. Ryker could tell that she was satisfied with his answer for all she could see, was how he was physically. He had no injuries or sickness, as far as she knew, and he was in perfect health. In truth, the only thing hindering him was his mental debate on Roxanne and the others. Looks like she's warmed up to you.
So it seems, though I believe it was only because I offered my ears in her time of trouble. Ryker saw that Jeanne almost facepalmed, or whatever it was called when one had hooves. Was it something I said?
Can't you just accept that the two of you are friends and it's because that you allowed yourself to become a little more feeling? Sympathetic? She smiled at his pondering expression. It is not that hard to figure out, you know?
It is when you do not have friends or the feeling of having friends to relate to. I do not know whether or not-.
Just accept it. Jeanne told him with a stern tone, though her smile remained. Ryker blinked. This is good for you, Ryker. It is actually good for the rest of them. She gestured to Roxanne and the house. Is it so hard to accept them? She waited for his answer, seeing him glance between her and Roxanne and then to the house.
Ryker then stared at the moon once more, somehow feeling as if it would help him with his decision. It was his only solace nowadays, and he often found himself basking in its light as he sifted through his thoughts for it was his only company most of the time. And so, as he lay before Jeanne, Ryker returned his gaze to the Arceus. ...I will accept them. Though, he didn't tell her that. All he did was give her a simple nod, and Jeanne smiled.
…
Two weeks later...
"Breathe, Hugh. Allow the air to refresh your body with every movement." Ryker said as he ducked under Hugh's punch. Hugh followed it up with a kick aimed for Ryker's stomach, but the Fenrir redirected it away with a simple wave of the hand. "Fight to survive, Hugh, fight to survive." Hugh gave two quick jabs, both connecting with the back of the Fenrir's hand. "Do not give any openings to your opponent. Do not even give them time to think. You want to be relentless, unmerciful, to be the top of the food chain." Ryker continued.
As Hugh tried his best to land a blow on the Fenrir, Ryker heard Aurora and Roxanne going through the same thing. How is it on your end, Lady Aki-Aurora?
Good, you caught yourself! She was amused and he knew it. And she's getting better! Both of them are! I can't believe how fast they-OW! Ryker blinked as he pivoted on the spot, Hugh barreling past him in an attempt to tackle the Fenrir. Man, that HURT! My jaw.. Shaking his head, Ryker suddenly got into a stance which gave Hugh the signal that the Fenrir was going into the offensive. At this, Hugh quickly brought up his arms.
Ryker was instantly a breath's distance away from Hugh, sending a kick that pushed the human back several feet. He heard Hugh wince and say, "Argh, that's going to bruise..again." Although it looked like a single step, Ryker closed the distance between them instantaneously and unleashed a barrage of combos, each pushing Hugh further back with every hit. Hugh was barely managing to either block or deflect them, Ryker nodding his approval every now and then.
"Keep it up, Hugh, we have another hour to go."
"Ugh, why?!" Hugh then smiled, chuckling as he leapt back to put some distance between him and the Fenrir. "Well, if I have to then." he added, shaking the pain out of his arms before readying himself for another barrage of attacks. Hugh then suddenly cocked his head at an angle. Ryker surmised that Rift was speaking to the human telepathically, for Aurora was the only other telepathic though she was busy with Roxanne. Looking for the Noctowl, Ryker spotted Oculus flying in circles, evading attacks from Rift who was floating above the ground.
The Fenrir raised a hand and gripped Hugh's incoming fist, the Knight-in-training showed shock at his failed attempt to sucker punch Ryker. "That was a good try, though you'll have to be quieter in your steps, Hugh." Ryker then attempted to backhand the human with a closed fist, though the latter was able to react fast enough to duck under the attack. In the next split-second, Ryker quickly reversed direction of his backhand to box Hugh's ear.
"Gah!" Hugh staggered back, rubbing his now very sore ear. "I think that might've given me cauliflower ear." He then initiated a peppy routine, shaking his hands and bending his knees as if he was just warming up. "I'm good, let's keep going!" Ryker nodded.
Hugh was the one to attack this time, feinting a jab to Ryker's abdomen. Ryker responded in suit, disregarding the fact that the blow was deceptive and actually took hold of Hugh's arm, surprising the human and thrusting his palm into Hugh's elbow lightly. "That would've been it for your arm for the remainder of the day." Hugh gulped and Ryker, not relenting, took hold of Hugh's shirt and threw the human over his head.
"Oof!" Hugh exhaled as he tried to recover from the slam to the ground.
He is fine, he will get up. Ryker thought as Hugh slowly rose to his feet. Neither of the two would give up just like that. "Would you like to take a small break?"
"No! No." Hugh panted. "Gotta keep the heart-rate up, you know? C'mon, let's keep going until the rest of the hour is up!" The moment he stopped talking, Hugh sped forward and rammed into the Fenrir, sending the two back some ways. The two grappled for a moment, Ryker noting how much effort Hugh was giving as the two tried to overpower the other. He heard Hugh wince, it was probably due to the fact that the Fenrir's claws dug deeper into the back of his hands the more Hugh pushed.
Hugh grunted in effort, Ryker watched him jump from their grapple position before planting his feet into Ryker's chest. Ryker stumbled, as the unexpected double-kick was fairly strong. He then felt Hugh's fist connect with his abdomen before another went to his throat. The Fenrir took another step back as Hugh took a small running start and jumped, kicking Ryker on the chin right in front of his chin spike. The last attack sent Ryker back a foot or so, the Fenrir sending Hugh another nod of approval. "Very good, the execution was almost perfect." The Fenrir honestly did not expect the attack coming, he was almost certain that Aurora was the one who had taught the human the attack for he didn't recognize it.
"Have to thank Aurora." Hugh managed to say as he took a deep breath, confirming Ryker's thoughts. "She taught me to do that to opponents who are larger than me. I can use their size against them by having them act as a balance when I bring up my legs to kick. When you stumbled and almost lost your balance, the hits to your stomach and throat were meant to throw you off completely or at least stun you. The kick was my own thing though, hehe. I threw that in for good measure." Hugh then wiped the sweat off his face as he readied himself, the training session wasn't over yet.
"It is smart, you should be proud of yourself for being able to pull it off. Would you like to learn the hurricanrana?" the Fenrir replied. Ryker almost chuckled at Hugh's confusion.
"The what?"
"A move also used for those bigger than you. Here, let me show you…"
…
With Hugh…
The next thing Hugh knew, Hugh was on his back looking up at the sky. It would be understatement to state that he was dazed. One moment, Alpha was in his face. The next, he was on the ground. Ugh, I'm so sore. "What the heck was that?" Alpha's open hand entered his vision and Hugh took it, feeling the Fenrir pull him to his feet with ease.
"That, was the hurricanrana. It was a bit tricky for me to pull off, seeing as I am bigger than you, but still effective."
"Yeah, but what did you do?" All Hugh could recall was feeling a sudden weight on his shoulders before his feet was suddenly in the air. He remembered feeling weightless for just a moment before he came crashing down to the world. His neck was hurting too, not just his back.
"You throw yourself on your opponent and wrap your legs around their neck, sliding yourself around to face the back of their head before you use your legs to throw them head over heels by their head."
Oh, so that's how it works...and it happened so fast. Hugh thought.
"But beware," the Fenrir added with a raised finger, "the one who initiates the attack throws themselves to the ground as well in the end. Be mindful of your body's condition and your surroundings before trying it out against someone."
"Gotcha, thanks for the tips." Hugh smiled. "So when are you going to teach me that?" Because why not? It looks cool...or, sounds cool, and it looks like it can knock a lot of people onto their backs. It did for me.
"I can teach it you now, but let us finish this session first. When we are done, I will teach you the form and execution and you can practice with it for however long you would like."
Meaning,"Let me beat you black and blue a while longer before we get to that. Hugh thought with an inward laugh. "Okay then." To be honest with himself, training wasn't so bad as it had seemed at first. With every day, and he could tell, it was becoming gradually less and less arduous. Was it him becoming used to the routine? Was his body developing some kind of tolerance towards the numerous hits, practically beatings, they had been dealing with?
Or was his body becoming numb due to all the pain he had endured? Meh, some food for thought.
But aside from whether or not it was becoming easier with every day that passed, Hugh knew that in the end, it was only for their own benefit. Blood, sweat, and tears were the surefire way to get where they needed, and as he had always heard, "No pain, no gain." And if THAT'S the case, I must be gaining like heck right now. I'd bet Roxanne is too. Already, due to their training, what little fat the two humans had were burned away and were replaced with healthy, strong muscle. Little by little, their bodies were becoming more defined and toned. Hugh noticed this recently when he looked over himself in the mirror in his room. And he had thought the Trainer's journey was one hell of a body-sculpter.
Regardless of that fact, Hugh often found himself smiling at his own reflection more, pleased at himself for making it as far as he did, along with Roxanne, of course. If only his sister knew, not to mention, his parents. Oh, and the rest of his team as well. They would be even more proud of him, he'd wager. If only he could tell them of the situation, of how Arceus herself invited him to be under her service. But alas, he didn't want all of their memories to be wiped and he knew it would be unpleasant to earn an Arceus' ire. But at least he had Rift and Oculus, his two long-time partners.
As Hugh tried his best to fend off his Fenrir mentor, he inwardly smiled as he recalled meeting his two partner pokemon. For Oculus, it was when he decided to check the mail on the day of his birthday…
Several years ago…
Hugh's eyes snapped open, his dream forgotten and replaced with the thought of the day. It was a special day, and Hugh nearly sprung out of his bed as he realized it. "Happy birthday, Hugh!" Turning to the now open door of his room, Hugh was enveloped by a crushing hug from his mother. The boy returned the hug, smiling brightly. Hugh's father chuckled, giving his son a pat on the back when his wife relinquished the boy from her crushing embrace.
"Happy birthday, son. Why don't you come downstairs when you're ready so we can get this day started?"
"Okay, Dad!" Hugh hurried over to the bathroom where he began brushing his teeth with brimming excitement. Downstairs, his mother and father were preparing the kitchen table for breakfast. Underneath the table was a single wrapped box, complete with a red ribbon with a standard white wrapping.
A few minutes later, Hugh came down the stairs and sat at the table with his parents. He almost didn't notice the gift underneath the table and when he did, his mother held up a finger with a smirk. "Breakfast first, then we can get to your present." Nodding enthusiastically, Hugh dug into his plate of syrup-covered pancakes, bacon, eggs, and sausage. Off to the side of his plate was a cupcake with a lit candle. His parents smiled, warmed by the sight of seeing their son so happy and excited for the day. The two had many things planned out for the day, including a trip to the Ruins of Alph as their son had always been interested of that place due to the stories and rumors they had heard from his uncle.
When breakfast was finished, and after Hugh partook in his cupcake, his mother placed the gift box on the table with a bright smile. "It's time for you to open it, go ahead."
"I think you'll love what's inside." his father commented with a knowing chuckle, almost confusing Hugh but the boy soon dismissed it. He didn't care, it was time for his present! Unwrapping the present as viciously as a Luxray would with its prey, Hugh quickly removed the wrapping and took of the lid. His eyes widened at the box's contents.
There were six empty pokeballs, complete with the starter set of potions and berries as well as a map, pokedex, and a pair of gloves. "M-Mom. Dad…" His parents got up from their seats and hugged him behind, his mother whispering to him.
"We know how you've always wanted to go on your very own journey, and we know that we've been holding it off for quite a bit of time. It's only fair for you to start now."
"Your mother has already uploaded your picture and personal information into the pokedex and servers. All you need to do is to register your DNA in the pokedex and you can get going whenever you want." his father added.
Hugh only stared at the box's contents, shocked still. His mother gently guided his hand to the pokedex, pressing a hidden button before pricking his thumb against the needle that emerged from within. Hugh snapped out of it then, briefly spotting the needle retracting back into the pokedex while the screen lit up with an electronic image of a happy face."Welcome, Hugh!" The pokedex then began to rattle of its procedures and such, though Hugh was only paying attention to his parents as they gave him advice about the journey ahead among other things. And even after they were done talking and began preparing for the trip to the ruins, Hugh almost couldn't believe it.
I'm actually a Trainer now...I-I'm...I'm a Trainer! was about the gist of his thoughts for the rest of the morning.
Hugh later went outside to check the mail before he finished packing up. He saw that the flag was up, indicating that something was within. Opening the mailbox, Hugh fished out a sealed letter as well as a small box. The box read "For Hugh" on its tag and Hugh, figuring that the letter was for him as well since it was tied to the box, broke the seal and read the letter of which he realized was from his older sister.
"Hugh,
I'm sorry for not being there for your birthday. With all this Team Rocket fiasco happening all over both of the regions, there isn't much I can do when the authorities decide to have me track and take down their admins since I accidentally defeated Sleight, a Shadow Admin, the other week. And now, along with all the Team Rocket stuff, the region's actually offering me a spot to be a Gym Leader so that's another thing to add to the list of things I have to deal with.
Anyway, I hope you'll have a great day today! Make sure you do as the scientist guys ask when you guys go to the Ruins of Alph later! Happy birthday, Hugh! And take care of Oculus!
What? Are you thinking, "Did I really just read that? Oculus? My older sister's powerful Noctowl? I can't possibly take him, it's not right!" Well, too bad! I already sent him over and I don't want to pay a fee to get him back! Don't you dare send him back unless you don't think you can take care of him, which I know you will. And how did I guess that you're a Trainer now?...Mom and Dad called me, that's how! What? I, your great older sister, actually doesn't know everything for once? I know, Hugh, shocker right?! Hehe, ok! Happy birthday again, and say "Hi!" to Mom and Dad for me!
Later, bro!
P.S. Oculus is gaining some weight so you mind putting him through a few exercises when you can? If you don't do anything about it, he'll get fat and have trouble with taking off to fly...or even to sustain flight. Make sure he doesn't overeat!"
Wide-eyed, Hugh looked at the small box and carefully shook it.
There was no mistaking the sound of a minimized pokeball enlarging, as the button to trigger the activation had been depressed when the ball rolled as Hugh shook the box.
…
Present day…
And then, there was that day he met Rift. As Hugh recalled the memory, he wiped his bloody nose with a quick swipe of the hand. He got distracted for a moment as he recalled his memory of obtaining Oculus and that earned him a swift punch to the nose. And then, there's Rift…
…
A few years ago, about three months into Hugh's Trainer journey…
Hugh sighed as he placed the map back into his backpack. "Roxanne? I think we're lost." He could almost feel his friend's frustration radiate from her being behind him.
"I figured when the path we were walking on kinda disappeared way back there." she replied sarcastically, though with a laugh to show that she wasn't really too bothered about it. Hugh rolled his eyes and looked up.
"Hey, Oculus! Can you circle back and lead us to the path we were on?" The Noctowl looked down from the sky and hooted his agreement, turning around and directing Hugh and Roxanne back to the path which would lead them to the next city. "Problem solved?"
"Where would we be without Oculus?" Roxanne asked dramatically.
"Probably in the belly of an Ariados three or four times over." Hugh smiled when Roxanne snorted at his statement. "Speaking of bellies, you getting hungry?" Roxanne nodded and Hugh called and signalled Oculus to come down for a break. The three sat together, snacking on some sandwiches they had packed in the last city they were in.
"It's getting pretty hot out here." Roxanne announced as she frowned. "Really hot, I wouldn't be surprised if we started to experience mirages." And she was right, Hugh thought, it was well over 90 degrees that day and their clothes were almost soaked with their sweat. The only thing that was helping them keep cool was their calm peace of minds, for thinking about the heat will only make it hotter.
"I'm pretty sure you only get mirages in a desert." Hugh replied.
"Not just a desert," Roxanne shot back as she raised a finger to gesture at the sun then to her head, "anytime when your mind starts getting fried by the sun. We don't need to be in the desert to see mirages." Hugh shrugged and Roxanne smiled smugly before the two of them returned to eating.
It was when Hugh finished his last sandwich, he saw it. "...Maybe you're right about those mirages." Roxanne raised an eyebrow at him. "In the mood for some eggs? I'd bet we can cook some right now."
Roxanne turned around to look at what he was seeing and gasped at the sight of a large egg. It was the first time either of them had ever seen a pokemon egg. To Roxanne, it was as Hugh said. An illusion. At the time, she didn't know most pokemon laid eggs, even those that seemed mammal.
For Hugh, it was the beginnings of a meal.
And so, the boy went over to it and picked it up. He smiled goofily at the egg, inspecting its surface and turning it to and fro. Maybe he mistook it for a glare of the sun, or maybe he just thought it was another illusion, but he didn't register the fact that the egg was slowing developing cracks of which glowed with a bright white light…
Present day...
The group later returned to the house; another day of promising progress of the two humans. Hugh, deciding to hold off learning the hurricanrana until maybe the next day. And so, he went and told Alpha of his decision. "Of course, there is no rush and it is not even an essential technique you need to learn. Come to me when you are ready to learn it." Alpha told him.
Leaving the kitchen, as he had been in it for some water, he spotted his two teammates conversing with one another in a corner of the living room. Oculus was managing his plumage and Rift was simply squinting at his spoon. Upon closer inspection, Hugh noticed that there was a smudge on it. Making sure his translator was on, Hugh approached the two.
"Hey, you two. What do you say we go out and get some more uses out of the VR?"
"Sounds good to me. " If you insist, Master Hugh. the two pokemon replied simultaneously.
Again with the "Master" thing. Hugh thought, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Look, Rift, you can just call me by my name. We've been over this already, you don't need to be so formal and we're equals." The Alakazam nodded.
As you wish. Hugh only sighed again, wondering why did he even bother.
Because both Hugh and Oculus knew that the Alakazam wouldn't stop, despite his words.
"We'll be back later, guys!" Hugh announced. He opened the door and allowed his teammates to go through first. And just before he shut the door behind him, he caught Aurora giving him a wave from the stairs as she dried her hair with a towel.
"Be sure you come back by sundown, Hugh." the Akirari said. "By the way, where's Alpha? I need to speak with him."
"Kitchen." Hugh answered, thumbing at Alpha over his shoulder after turning around. "And I know, we'll be back soon." With that, he shut the door and looked at his teammates. "Now, where to start?"
They ended up in an area some ways from the house, about a ten-minute walk's worth. They had found another clearing, this one smaller than the one just outside the house. While Hugh was standing near the edge of the clearing, Oculus was in flight above him and Rift was floating a few feet away. In the Alakazam's hand was a marble of which they had found on their travels some months before. Rift teleported away from their view, reappearing a moment later without the marble. "Alright. You ready, Oculus?" The Noctowl nodded. "Let's sync up then."
A moment later, Hugh saw through Oculus' eyes and the Noctowl abandoned his hovering state. He weaved through the trees ahead, scanning his surroundings and flew in a left-to-right sweeping pattern. See it, Hugh? Oculus asked through their mental link.
No, and I don't think you passed it. Keep searching. Hugh thought as he blinked. His vision returned to normal, though his eyes still retained a purple hue. Running into the foliage, he used Oculus' shared keen eyesight to try and spot the marble Rift had hidden. It was a simple exercise, sure, but it would better their use of VR. Leave it to Rift to make this challenging.
I thought that was the point of this activity? Rift questioned from the clearing. Hugh only laughed, every now and then switching to see through Oculus before searching with his own eyes.
The three kept this up for about an hour, only finding the marble a few times due to Rift's superb skill at hiding things. It indeed provided a challenge for the Noctowl and human, but they wanted to change their activity so that the Alakazam was being included as well. As they were now, the three were in the center of the clearing. Hugh was standing before Rift, Oculus was perched on a branch nearby. "So, idea." Hugh stated. When Rift didn't give any indication of responding or asking a question, he continued. "So you know how psychics usually can't teleport to places they haven't been to?"
Only exceptionally powerful psychics can do that, but even they have difficulty pulling it off. Rift answered. Hugh grinned, he thought that his idea might change things a bit.
"What if we use VR and have you look through either my or Oculus' eyes and see if you can teleport to our position that way? And if we're somewhere you haven't been before?" During their time there training, the humans and the two pokemon had yet to explore the entirety of the island they were on. Hugh and Roxanne never strayed too far from the house, for they had no reason too.
Rift looked at Hugh with deep contemplation. In theory, it can possibly work if either of you make a short scan of the surrounding area so I can get a better idea of where I'm teleporting to. We might want to try this with Oculus first, he will be in the air and will have full view of the area. Hugh nodded, smiling at his partner's suggestion.
"Oculus!" Hugh called, the Noctowl flew over to their position instantly. "Would you mind flying about...let's work with about a mile or two away north from here?"
"What for?"
"Just testing out something." Hugh answered. "If it works, the VR can be a lot more useful if we want to get anywhere or even go stealth." Hugh was getting exciting thinking of the implications of the possible development, already imagining some scenarios where the application would fit perfectly. He looked at Oculus, sending the Noctowl a look that said "Please?" Nodding, Oculus did as he was asked. As he flew away, they synced up once more and once the Noctowl flew the proper distance, Hugh gave Rift the go-ahead when the three agreed that the area Oculus was in was new and something they didn't recognize. Right, just sit tight there, Oculus. "Rift, try it now."
Rift nodded, gone a moment later. Hugh waited a few more seconds before the Alicia was back. It was unsuccessful with Oculus only seeing the path ahead of him. I ended up teleporting to an area nearby that looked very similar, not his exact position.
Alright, Oculus? Take an aerial scan of your spot. Maybe do a 360 check just in case.
Got it...Ready when you guys are.
"You're good to go, Rift." The Alakazam was gone again, reappearing nearly a second later.
It's a success. Rift said with a nod. Hugh pumped a fist.
"Nice!" Oculus, you can come back now. "So it works! Great! Now with that done, we can safely assume that it would work with me too albeit, it'll be more limited in my case since it'd take a while for me to give you a view of the entire area. Still though..." Hugh grinned. Oh, the possibilities! We can probably introduce this into our training and get a one-up on Alpha and Aurora! "..great work, Rift." The Alakazam nodded and actually gave a smile when High patted his back. Some time later, after practicing and tinkering a bit more with the teleportation, they decided to get back to the house when the felt like they were satisfied with the progress they've made.
As they neared the clearing by the house, the ground before them was suddenly impacted powerfully by something which sent up a cloud of dust and debris. "W-*cough*-What was that?!" Hugh asked as he coughed, waving his hand in an attempt to clear the dust before his eyes.
Master Hugh! In the next second, Hugh was right next to Rift and Oculus. The three of them were standing a few meters away from the dust cloud, the Alakazam and Noctowl poised for confrontation. Alert, Hugh tensed for whatever that crashed into the ground. He could faintly hear slithering, as if a snake was coming there way.
Out came, of all things he didn't expect, a Giratina. It was in its Origin Forme, towering above the three with a menacing glare. Hugh noticed that it had a glowing purple sigil of sorts pulsing on its upper torso. For some reason, Hugh felt ill intent from the sigil itself. Then again, it might just be from the FRICKEN GIRATINA RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME!
Ah, human, it spoke, are I correct to assume that you are one of two humans aiming to be Knights of Arceus? The Giratina almost spat at uttering "Arceus", Hugh thought that he could hear it in the serpentine voice.
"Y-Yes?" Hugh answered, mentally telling Rift to prepare for a teleport just in case things when south. The Giratina narrowed its eyes at them at his answer, scanning the area before settling his gaze on them once again.
In that case, please make my job easier by standing still so I can kill you. Then, the Giratina came forth at a frightening speed.
"Ri-!" Hugh began, though was startled at the sight of the Giratina slamming Rift into a tree with its tail.
I don't think so, human! it sneered before opening its mouth. A black and red ball formed in its mouth, shrinking in size as it grew more and more focused. This isn't personal, human, we just can't risk you interfering. Oculus performed an Aerial Ace at the Giratina's neck, but the attack proved ineffective as it left the Giratina unscathed. With a swipe of one of the tendrils coming from his back, Giratina sent Oculus to the ground and Hugh paled at the sickening crunch!
"OCULUS!" Hugh screamed, looking desperately at his other partner for help only to despair even more seeing the Alakazam unconscious. "N-No!"
Goodbye, human. The Giratina said. Maybe when I take my place as a Legendary of the Council, we'll meet again in the Distortion World. But first things first, we need to take care of the current Council first. Until then, human. Hugh closed his eyes when the Giratina let loose the beam it had been charging, the area around them becoming cold due to the dark attack.
…
With Oculus…
No...Hugh..Oculus thought as he weakly looked up from his place on the ground. It pained him to even move his head, as his entire body was sore and he was pretty sure one of his ribs was broken due to the Giratina's last attack. He struggled to get up, but to no avail. His wings felt glued to the ground and his body was suddenly lead. Hugh! Please, no!
And, as Giratina released his attack on Hugh, Oculus can already feel his perception of the world dimming. The Noctowl felt that he failed, that he failed Hugh and the human's older sister. What good was a friend like him who couldn't even protect his partner? Of whom, was practically a brother to him now? Oculus felt his heart wrench as the dark beam closed its distance between itself and Hugh before making contact…
Oculus then snapped his eyes open as the tree to his right exploded into splinters, the wood chips showering his body like that of a rainy day. Slowly looking up again, Oculus nearly hopped for joy (even though doing so would probably give him some more immense pain) at the sight of the two Legendaries before them. Standing with Rift over her shoulder was Aurora, and she was holding the arm of Hugh. The human was unscathed. In front of Aurora, standing with a smoking arm, was Alpha. He probably deflected the blast! Oculus thought.
Suddenly, he felt himself being lifted and the next thing he knew, Alpha was carefully handing him to Aurora who encased Oculus' body in a soothing, golden sphere. "Go, Lady Akirari, take them there." the Fenrir said. Oculus saw Aurora nod and immediately took off in a run, pulling along Hugh and still carrying both himself and Rift.
"Wait! We're just going to leave him there?!" Hugh asked. Oculus felt like voicing his opinion as well, though found that he was still too weak to do so.
"I'll go back when we get you three to safety. When I drop you off, I'll go pick up Roxanne from the house and drop her off at the cave as well and the four of you will remain there until both me and Alpha come back."
As they neared what seemed to be a hill, Hugh asked, "What did that Giratina attack us? What was the point in trying to kill me?" Oculus wondered that as well. Why would a Legendary want to kill a Knight of Arceus?
"And Roxanne." Aurora said as they slowed to a stop. "As for why, did you see the purple sigil on him?" Hugh nodded and Aurora let him go. She then walked over to the side of the hill and waved her hand, revealing a large cave previously hidden by an illusion. Oculus guessed that Alpha was the one who had somehow casted it. "Get in."
Hugh walked inside the cave, turning around to see Oculus being placed gently on the ground. The Noctowl was actually starting to feel better ever since Aurora enveloped him in the golden sphere which was still present. Next to him, Oculus saw Rift being leaned up against the cave wall. "What about that purple sigil?"
"He's part of a faction of Legendaries against the Arceus' rule. They want to take over the Hall of Origins for themselves, and they haven't made a move in years until just earlier when he tried to kill you."
"But why try to kill me? I'm just a human!"
"Those who become Knights of Arceus have the potential to become very powerful on a Legendary level, Hugh. They didn't want you or Roxane possibly get in the way." Standing up, Aurora turned around and walked out of the cave after casting something similar to the golden orb around Oculus. He saw that the Alakazam was encased in the same golden glow. "I'll be back soon to drop off Roxanne. Remember, stay hidden." The Akirari then waved a hand and their view of her became obscured by dirt and little bits of grass.
Thank Arceus for her and Alpha...Oculus thought before looking over at Hugh who was looking over him and Rift in concern. Because of them, he's safe….Oculus then finally gave in to his fatigue and lost consciousness.
…
With Aurora…
After explaining everything to Roxanne and dropping her off at the cave, Aurora sped her way to where she'd last saw Alpha and the Giratina. It didn't take much to find them, for she followed the explosions and dust clouds that went up to the sky. When she got there, she took note of the new craters in the ground as well as several destroyed trees, some burning with black flames. Are they safe? Aurora quickly snapped her attention to her right, spotting Alpha grappling with Giratina who was now in his Altered Forme. Alpha himself was in his true form and the Fenrir was snapping at the invading Legendary's neck. The Akirari almost shivered at the sound of Alpha's sudden change in voice of which was drastically more stern and cold than it usually was. It was most likely due to the Giratina in their midst.
Changing into her true form as well, Aurora bared her fangs at the Giratina as she answered the Fenrir. Yes, they're in hiding and I made sure to tell them not to come out until we get back.
She ran over to the grappling Legendaries to support the Fenrir, the latter had just received a point-blank Shadow Ball to the muzzle from the Giratina but amazingly held fast. Seeing Aurora approaching, Alpha slackened his limbs a bit which allowed Giratina to take dominance and roll to be on top with the grapple.
Ha! Is that all you've got, mutt? the Giratina mocked right before Aurora rammed into his side at full speed. He was sent rolling through a few trees before finally stopping when he crashed into a boulder.
Convenient boulder. Aurora thought as Alpha right himself, seemingly unscathed for the most part. So, how are we going to handle him?
We will move to flank him. Alpha answered as Giratina groaned, uprooting a tree with a swipe of a paw as he got back up. He cannot hope to hold off the two of us at once, especially since his speed is much lower in his current forme. He glanced at Aurora. I will attack him from the left.
Got it. Aurora replied. With that, the two Legendaries dashed over to the Giratina. Aurora closed in on his right, preparing an Ice Fang. She spotted Alpha leaping and tucking into a roll in midair, slashing the Giratina's back as the Fenrir sailed over. When Alpha landed, he quickly turned to face the invader. While Giratina was distracted with the Fenrir, Aurora moved to the opposite side and attacked, biting down on the Renegade Pokemon's neck in the same spot Alpha had. Ice spread from the bite area as Giratina roared in agony, flailing his neck around to try and dislodge Aurora who kept her feet planted firmly to the ground. Submit to us now!
Never, you bitch! the Giratina roared before becoming transparent and sinking into the ground. Aurora, surprised by the sudden move, almost tripped before regaining her balance.
Where did the sneaky bastard go? Aurora asked, looking around.
It's his signature move, Shadow Force. Be mindful, the attack will still land if you were to use a defensive move like Protect. Alpha answered for her. Take flight, I know how to deal with this. Not questioning him, Aurora flapped her wings once and took to the skies. She saw the Fenrir take a step forward before dissipating into nothing in a cloud of black matter.
Did you just-? she tried to ask as she felt him reaching out to her mentally.
He is not the only master manipulator of the shadows. Aurora had to shake her head again, for Alpha's voice, as deep and cold as it was, echoed in her head. It wouldn't be so bad had it not been for the feeling of being prey that came along with it. I have him. Aurora watched the ground, seeing two barely perceptible shadows darting around from underneath. One shadow was thicker than the other, Aurora figuring it to be the Giratina. Both her and Alpha were large for Legendaries, though the Giratina species trumped most Legendaries in size.
If I want to be honest, this is kind of freaky to watch. Aurora thought as she watched Alpha's shadow "strike" the Giratina's multiple times in succession. The Giratina's shadow darted away, only to be caught by Alpha's shadow and "dragged" back. Alpha's shadow then proceeded to resume its attack on the other. There were a few times where the Giratina's shadow got a few attacks in, though it didn't seem to do much to its opponent for Alpha's shadow continued to move much fluidly and without loss of speed.
Aurora wondered if there was anything she could do to help. Perhaps, she could send a beam of Light at Giratina's shadow? Would that earn her a favorable result? Shaking her head and deciding to scrap the idea, the Akirari continued to ponder on it and made sure she didn't hover too close to the ground in case the Giratina decided to snag her.
There were a few times when she heard a roar that resembled that of a leviathan, the roars would echo from the ground and cause small-scale earthquakes. Fortunately, it did not get much more violent than that so she didn't worry about the cave the others were hiding in collapsing. The small earthquakes would shift some rocks in the cave at most, but nothing life-threatening.
Several minutes later from that thought, the Giratina resurfaced. His body was covered in gashes and cuts, as well as some vicious bite wounds. He was bleeding moderately, which surprised Aurora. She had thought that the Fenrir would want to kill the invader. *pant...pant* Damn him! the Giratina cursed as Aurora landed, the danger of the Shadow Force gone.
Alpha resurfaced the moment she touched down, sporting some cuts along his muzzle and a chunk of flesh missing from his side. Despite the injuries, the Fenrir didn't seem to be affected much and continued his advance towards the Giratina. This is your last chance to submit. Do so, or we will be forced to make you comply. the Fenrir warned, emotionless.
Over my dead body! the Giratina exclaimed as he turned around and barreled into Aurora. Aurora growled as they rolled, the two snapping at each other. Trying to beat him in the head with her wings, Aurora struggled getting the Giratina off her. At the same time, she constantly shifted her head to the side in order to avoid the stabbing attacks the Giratina's tendrils were giving.
That can-Aurora headbutted the dragon-like being, earning a groan from the Giratina. -certainly be arranged. At that moment, the Giratina charged a Hyper Beam and aimed it at her. Aurora struggled to shove him off but saw Alpha doing something off to the side.
Looks like you're the one who's going to end up in the ground! the Giratina taunted as he released his Hyper Beam. Luckily, Aurora managed to bat at his head at the last possible moment with a paw and the powerful attack only managed to skim her shoulder. I won't miss next time! Charging another Hyper Beam, the Giratina prepared to release it again before he suddenly closed his mouth, the attack canceling. Roaring in agony and spewing forth curses violent enough to make a sailor blush, he rolled off Aurora whilst clawing at his side. Rolling to her feet as well, Aurora widened her eyes at what ailed him.
The Giratina's side was being eaten away, turned to nothing. Tendrils of shadow tore away and consumed his flesh at a gradual rate. Eventually, Aurora thought, the shadows would hit bone and she didn't want to imagine how agonized the Giratina's screams would be. Are you ready to submit now? Looking at the Fenrir, Aurora spotted the traces of what she assumed to be Void flowing about in wisps around his muzzle. Submit, and I will cease your suffering.
N-Never! the Giratina gasped as he tried to move away, only to crumple to the ground when the dark tendrils on his side quickened their ministrations with more ferocity. ARRRRGH! The Giratina wailed as he tried to recover, but couldn't.
We gave you a few chances and tried not to injure you too much. Alpha said, giving a cold stare into the Giratina's eyes. The latter's movements slowed to a stop, occasionally twitching due to the pain or shivering at the Fenrir's visage. Are you ready to submit? Alpha asked once more. And for some reason, Aurora thought, she knew that he wouldn't ask again and that the Giratina would no longer be should he refuse to submit.
I-the Giratina began as he clenched his eyes shut, groaning and holding in his screams at the pain consuming his side. I...I surrender. Faster than a blink of an eye, the dark tendrils eating away at the Giratina's side vanished though the damage done was irreparable. Aurora winced at the sight of his side, for it was bleeding profusely and dripped at the torn flesh. The white of what she assumed to be at the bottom or side of his lower ribs showed. The entire consumed area was about the size of an average pie, resembling a very large and major gash.
Great, now I can't eat pie without thinking of that. Aurora thought as Alpha approached the Giratina. He raised a flame-enveloped paw and without any warning, pressed it against several areas of the wound. The Giratina cursed loudly though held in his scream as Alpha cauterized the wound, stopping the bleeding. It did not do much though, as the Giratina was surely still gravely injured in that area.
That is so you will last a bit longer while we question you. Alpha stated coldly, stepping back. He flicked his paws, the blood flinging off to the ground. He then sharply shook his back to the side, the Giratina's blood on the blade-like protrusions splattering against a tree. Sitting on his haunches, Alpha glanced over at Aurora. Lady Akirari is of the Council so she will question you. You are to answer each of her questions truthfully and without deceit or any omission. Should I suspect deception or hesitation from you...Alpha's paw became enveloped in Void before he flicked it, sending a small droplet-sized ball of Void to Giratina's neck. The Renegade Pokemon whimpered as it ate away at the outer layers of his neck before dissipating. Aurora winced at though, almost raising a paw to clutch at her neck as a reaction. Nodding frantically, the Giratina lowered his head as a sign of compliance. You may question him now, Lady Akirari. Aurora nodded, walking over and sitting before the Giratina with a cold stare.
There goes relaxing for rest of the day.