While Ash seemingly slept peacfully, his team of dragons were all wide awake, busy in their own affairs, but they all kept an eye on Ash. Sleep was the only moment that Ash was defenseless.
Smaug was watching his now evolved hand flex; it was weird, it was a new experience for him, but it seemed to be familiar at the same time.
I suggest that you stop fawning over your new body and get some rest.
Came a voice that made all three dragons alert. Mael had no chance at finding the source of the voice, but Tyrunt and Smaug did. They could smell it.
Come out Pyscher. I can smell you.
Smaug said, eyeing a particular part of the room. When the owner of the voice did not show it self, Smaug sent a small Ember towards the area, where it was intercepted by an invisible shield.
Dragon! Do you wish to set the building a blaze?
The voice said, as its body appeared. It was Abra.
What do you want Pyscher? Lord Ash is asleep. If you wish to cast your magic on him, then pray our wrath be fast and swift.
Mael said, as he, Tyrunt, and Smaug growled and rumbled. Abra raised her one arm before she spoke again.
Calm yourselves. I have recovered from my injuries enough to join you in your journeys.
They all gained confused looks before Tyrunt spoke to her.
But, you are not of the dragon family are you? Why as Lord Ash allowed you to join our regiment.
Fool, there is more to Pyschers than just battles. We are the smartest of the races, we are diplomats, warriors, librarians, teachers. And Lord Ash as seen my abilities and has allowed me to join him on his journey.
What ever you say Pyscher. We are discussing matters of war, care to join us?
Smaug said, as they all relaxed.
The city of thunder awaits us. There I will not be able to assist you.
Mael said, his pride obviously hurt.
We need another to take his place. But our race is rare. We will need luck.
Smaug said.
It appears that luck is on our side. Another dragon resides in the room.
Abra said, pointing towards the marked poke-ball on the night stand beside Ash's bed.
Why has Lord Ash not yet released the occupant?
Tyrunt asked.
I can sense the arrogance and ignorance in its mind. It has some power to back it up, but any of you could make him bow. Perhaps
Abra said. However, as she was about to turn back towards them, she stopped where Ash was asleep, and stayed still.
Pyscher, what troubles you?
Smaug asked, worry evident in his voice.
Lord Ash is being plagued by night terrors. And there is nothing I can do to stop them.
Abra said, sadness creeping into her voice.
Is there nothing you can do? Perhaps disrupt them?
Mael said, anxiously looking at Ash.
No. If I do, I may snap his mind. No, he must over come it by himself. And there is something else in there. Something much too powerful for me.
Abra said, as she teleported to the windowsill. The rest of Ash's pokemon only gave sad rumbles and growls before they settled down and watched Ash with sad eyes.
Ash stared up defiantly at a large figure, with a long tail, weird armor, and an aura that in reality made Ash want to hide. Only sheer willpower kept him from running.
Warrior
"Demon."
They greeted each other. Ash was not in the mood for this, especially to be in the council of a being he had no idea about and that wielded amazing power.
Come now. Must you be so crude with your terms? I am only here by orders of my Master.
"And why has he ordered you to invade my mind?"
Simple. He has sent me to ask for your alliance. He has seen how much potential you have, and he has sent me to try and persuade you to join his cause.
"Let me guess, the nightmare before. It was a test, correct?"
Correct. It was a test, to try your resilience. And he was very pleased with the results. Not many gain his favor.
"And the Abominations. Are they tests too?"
No. Those are experiments for his army. They were quiet interesting to make. The ones that you speak off were just tests that went well. He is developing others also. More powerful ones. In fact the Beast of the air and his minions are already on their way to challenge the Thunder Bird for reign of the skies.
Do you know, how we made them? We took the members of other gangs and crime syndicates of the nation and infused live pokemon. We have thousands upon thousand at our disposal. The Beasts, however, were made from the my Progenitor's DNA. They were in a less of a dosage so they could make me, but they have enough power to challenge the Rulers of the skies.
The Demon said, in pride. Ash could only gasp in horror. The abominations, were humans? They were tested upon and infused with live pokemon? He had killed people. He had killed innocent pokemon. He thought he was killing mindless mutations. But no, he had slayed dozens and dozens of living things.
Do not fret. They are far beyond living. They feel nothing and they only obey the will of their Master. The Beasts, however, can think. They are the most powerful.
"And what if I refuse?"
Ash asked. There was really no point in asking the question. There was no way he would ally himself with such a monstrosity of a man.
Then pray you are nothing like your father, who ran in fear when opposition came his way. Such a waste. He had an entire legion in his hand. We could have used them for our cause. It matters not now. We will conquer the part the world where he fled. Well if you wish not to join us, then I give you a warning. War is coming. Prepare for it.
And if you don't heed our warnings and wish not to join us in the end. Then maybe we could 'persuade' your companions too.
It said, showing an image of Misty, Adam, and Juliet And like that Ash's fell into a dreamless sleep.
Ash awoke with a jolt as he sprung out of bed. The morning sun was peeking through the window and on his bed. He took a couple of breaths to calm himself down and process the information he was given.
The Abominations were living people and pokemon, and he had killed them. Hell's gates awaited him for sure. And who was his father? During some of his more lucid dreams he could hear his screams, but he had not learned the identity of his father.
There was nothing in his house that showed anything of his father. No pictures. No memories. And nothing from his horrid mother. Like he would ask her in the first place. The only person who might know anything would be Professor Oak. He would have to ask him later.
Greetings Lord Ash, I assume sleep did not trouble you so?
The voice of Abra said. In surprise Ash grabbed his sheathed sword and unsheathed expecting an attack.
Calm. Master. Calm. I am no threat to you.
Abra said, as her body appeared from thin air. Sighing in relief Ash sheathed his blade and placed it on the night stand before he answered her.
"I see that you have recovered from your injuries." Ash said as he got out of his bed and began fixing it.
Yes. I no longer require medication, and my powers are back. My shoulder is sore, though.
Abra said, as she gingerly touched the spot where her arm used to be. She winced slightly before she retracted her hand.
I fear that many will mock me for my injury. Even from my own kind.
She said sadly. Ash placed a comforting hand on her good shoulder, drawing her attetion.
"Don't worry. You look fine. But I'll get you something to draw their attention." Ash said reassuringly. She nodded before, Ash looked over at his snoring dragons.
"Can you take care of their training for the morning? I got some matters to attend to."Ash said as he grabbed his armor and equipment.
As you wish.
Abra said, before she snapped her fingers. Ash heard nothing from the snap, but apparently his team did as they woke up with a start and looking around wildly.
"I'll be gone for awhile, so Abra will be taking care of your training this morining." Ash did has he put on his helmet. They all nodded before in a display of rainbow colors they teleported away. Ash raised his eyebrows in surprise. It took a lot of power and skill to teleport multiple pokemon or things away.
He quickly exited his room before he entered the lobby of the Pokemon Center and headed towards the Video Phone. He quickly typed in his number and waited patiently for the Professor to answer.
"Professor Oak speaking."
The Professor said, as his image appeared on the screen, with a kind smile on his face.
"Hey Professor." Ash greeted.
"Oh Ash, what a lovely surprise." he said," What matter brings you to call me?"
"I was just wondering what you could tell me about my father."
Instantly the Professor lost his cheerful demeanor and grew a grim one. He struggled to speak, he opened his mouth to say something but after a moment of hesitation he closed his mouth again. Finally, after a few minutes of silence he spoke.
"Like I said I wanted to tell you after the Pokemon League, but now it seems the matter is present. If you want me to tell you about your father, get Gary and Violet to listen too."
Ash made a move to remark, but the Professor cut him off. "No. They must be here for me to tell the story. I think they want to learn about their father too."
Ash just nodded before he walked of to the front desk. Nurse Joy was there, typing on a computer, when he asked for their room number.
"They are in room A4 dear, just down that hallway." she said, pointing all way the opposite side that Ash stayed at.
"Thank you." Ash said as he began walking towards their room's door. Once their, he took off his helmet and knocked on the door. He waited patiently, listening to the shuffling of footsteps before the door was opened by Gary.
"What do you want.", he growled, as Violet stopped behind him. They were ready to leave as they had their equipment on, and their poke-balls clipped to their belts.
"I need you to come with me." Ash said, trying to keep calm.
"Like we ever go anywhere with you." Violet hissed.
"I don't care if you don't want to or not, but your Grandfather calls for you. He has news about your father." Ash said, anger seeping into his voice.
They both growled in annoyance before, they bumped Ash out of the way as they got out of their room and headed towards the Video Phones. Ash followed them as they stood in front of the screen watching the elder Oak.
"Now that all of you are here. I can tell you about your fathers." the elder Oak said.
"Your fathers were aspiring trainers like you. But they were given a mission. The mission was to capture and train all 147 pokemon native to Kanto. To catalog and study them for future generations. And they succeeded. Their names went down in history as some of the greatest trainers of the world.
Blue, as calm and fierce as the ocean.
Red, as weak and powerful as an open flame.
Both settled down with their lovers to create you." the Professor said pointing at them. All of them began feeling nostalgic, like they were remembering old memories. But that didn't stop Gary.
"Grandpa, shouldn't we get rid of Ash? He is obviously to stupid to understand anything you are saying." he said.
"GARY! Mind your tongue! You know that Ash is just as smart and skilled as you as a trainer. Do you even have a reason to detest Ash as much as you do?" Professor Oak asked angrily, showing much of his former power he held when he was young.
Gary stood still for awhile, his face contorted in thought, as he thought of the reason he hated Ash so much. It seemed easy at first, but soon he couldn't remember a distinctive reason why he hated Ash so much.
"I don't know.", Gary said.
"As I thought. You don't remember anything because I removed the memory. But it did not erase the hate. Nothing can erase hate." he said, sadly.
"Then tell us why everyone hates Ash so much!" Violet said, growing impatient.
"Some times trainers just can't settle down. They crave adventure, the thrill of danger, the reward of hard work. And they will do anything to have it. And Red did. He wanted adventure.
When you three were born, Red contacted the Leader of Team Rocket, and lead them to Pallet, hoping Delia and Ash would die during the invasion. And while Pallet Town was under attack he fled." They all gasped in shock. Violet and Gary in particular, who watched Ash who had to fight down the feelings of anger and sadness welling within him.
"During the attack, Blue and his wife, Green died. Pallet's citizens were scarred, and they pointed the blame on you. For the apple does not fall far from the tree. After that everyone hated you, children, adults. I used Alakazam to try and wipe the hate from their minds, but hate can never be forgotten." The Professor said, sitting down in his chair with a glum expression.
"Is this how the world is? Have the youth die out, and the old linger to suffer more? I remember everything on that day and afterwards. Their funerals, Red's exile, how your mother tried to love you, but went insane from depression. She had everything you know. A good husband, great friends, and a potential filled child. And all of that was taken from her that night." he said, tears sliding down his cheeks.
"So now that you know the truth, no more fighting okay? Neither of you three need anymore punishment from a reckless and evil decision. And I want you all traveling together. Evil is approaching." The Professor said.
They all nodded in understanding, as the screen went black. Ash turned to them as an awkward silence settled in. He wanted to be mad at them, he did. But it didn't feel right. They didn't know.
"We never had been on the best of terms, since the 'incidence'. I know we have been harsh to you for the past few years not knowing the complete truth, but now that we know, can you find it your heart to forgive us for our terrible mistakes? You don't have to be our friend, but I can't live with myself knowing I tortured someone for something they didn't do." Gary said. He seemed sincere enough as he stood there nervously.
"You know I used to take my strength from my hate of you and your sister. I know now why you did it, but it'll be hard to treat you fairly again. But I am willing to give you a chance." Ash said, as he raised his hand. Gary raised his and eagerly shook Ash's.
"But. What about a battle to stomp the embers out?" Ash asked as he mentally summoned Abra.
"With pleasure." Gary grinned darkly as he primed a poke-ball. Violet just sighed and excused herself to reading alone in the lobby.
They both walked out the Pokemon Centers doors as in a flash of light, Abra appeared along with all of his pokemon.
Gary jumped back in surprise as the Psychic-type pokemon appeared right in front of him. He quickly tried to regain his composure, but his attention was drawn to her missing arm.
"What happened to her?" Gary questioned as Ash recalled them, with the exception of Abra who sat her self on a stump beside Ash.
"I found her on the way here. Her arm was mangled by something and Nurse Joy couldn't heal it." Ash said sadly.
" Poor thing. Well lets get started. Two on two. Graveler come on out!" Gary said as he summoned a giant rock golem with four muscular arms.
Ash threw out Mael's poke-ball without a second thought. No one else's attack would breach its armor effectively beside's Mael's powerful water attacks.
The blue sea dragon appeared on the field and gave off a dangerous rumble at the stone golem.
"Humph. It seems you're following your dream of becoming a Dragon Master huh. Well this will be interesting." Gary stated flipping his orange hair out of his eyes.
" Mud Slap!" Gary commanded. Graveler used its large four arms and dug out huge wads of the earth and hurled them at Mael.
Ash didn't even give a command. Mael knew to just move out of the way of mud. Although it wouldn't harm him too much, it would be an nuisance to have it stuck to his scales during the battle.
"Hydro Pump!"
Mael unleashed a large geyser of water from his snout that headed towards Graveler with dangerous speed.
"Safe Guard!" Gary said, as Graveler crossed its giant arms in front of its face and a clear shield formed in front of it. The surge of water blasted at the shield, pushing back Graveler several feet back, but it was not powerful enough to breach the shield.
When it ended, Graveler's arm glowed a bright orange before the muddy water beneath it, formed into a huge ball of mud that sent a large stream of mud at Mael.
Before Ash could even think the mud stream smashed into Mael, slamming him into the ground and making him slide through the dirt because of the force.
'Mud Shot' Ash thought as he watched Mael rise from the ground, heavily bruised, his usual blue scales turned deep purple.
"Surf!" Ash said.
Mael glowed an omnipotent blue as water seemed to be drawn from everywhere. Soon a whirling ball of water was sent to Graveler, who tensed up seeing the wave of water.
"Protect!" Gary roared.
Graveler flexed its arms and a purple shield surrounded its body. The crashing water just bounced off the shield of purple energy. The water just flopped to the ground, all of its previous energy lost.
"Ice Beam!" Ash said hastily, already seeing a plan form. The beam of ice shot out of Mael's snout quickly froze the water underneath Graveler's feet. It may of not breached Protect, but it did surround it with thick ice.
When Protect finally gave out, Graveler's feet were trapped. It struggle frantically to pull its feet out, but Mael was too quick. A Hydro Pump crashed against it, its rocky armor cracked and blood spurted out as Graveler was sent flying, clearly beaten. Gary growled with annoyance, as he sent out Wartortle.
His starter was about the same height as Smaug. He had a darker hue of blue skin then his previous form. He had a fluffy tail, two fluffy ears, and the top of his shell was red. The two Water-types stood off each other.
"Mega Punch!"
"Dragon Rage!"
They both said. Wartortle's fist glowed with white energy as Mael sent a burst of blue draconic energy towards him. However, instead of dodging the attack, Wartortle slammed his fist at it. The fist absorbed the draconic energy, giving the fist a blue hue. The fist of combined energy slammed into Mael's already injured side.
Mael, already in pain from his thrashing from Graveler's Mud Shot attack, was knocked unconscious by the powerful punch.
"Smaug." Ash said. Smaug was the only who had enough raw power to defeat Gary's Wartortle, but Wartortle also did too, especially with his affinity with water.
Smaug released a loud roar and let out a stream of fire into the air, as the two rival pokemon faced off. They both circled around each other, eyeing each other down.
"Mega Punch!"
"Metal Claw!"
They both lunged at each other, Smaug's claws lengthened and glimmering with a metallic glint, while Wartortle charged with its glowing white fist. Smaug's claw easily caught Wartortle's fist, while the other went on the attack. If Wartortle had no shell, its skin would had been severely cut by the incoming claws, but Wartortle's shell covered its torso too. The claws raked against his chest, making three long scratches along the shell. It did no physical damage, but it was enough for Wartortle to back off.
The two stared off at each other, poised for evasion and attack. Smaug's tail whipped around as a growl emitted from his throat. Wartortle was just as tense, his knuckle was bleeding softly after its fight with Smaug's sharp claws.
"Water Pulse!" Gary commanded. Wartortle's throat expanded in size, along with his cheeks before he release a ball of water that raced towards Smaug. He dodged it easily, but the attack impacted on the ground, creating a small crater because of the mere force of the attack.
Again and again, Wartortle released powerful blast of water, that kept Smaug on the move. Ash had tried counterattacking with some of Smaug's dragon moves, but it was all in vain.
Smaug dodged another Water Pulse and did something Ash did not count on. He slipped. It was for a mere couple of seconds but it was enough for Wartortle to launch an attack. The Water Pulse crashed into Smaug's chest sending him a couple feet back from the force.
Smaug laid still for a couple of seconds before he slowly got up. His chest was marred with a large bruise, his scales were peeled away, and blood flowed freely from his chest. His eyes, however, did not hold pain. Only rage and determination.
And with a mighty roar, Smaug released a torrent of hot green flames that seared the ground underneath it and made the temperature rise.
'Dragon's Breath' Ash thought staring in wonder as Gary called out to his starter.
"Withdraw!" he said desperately, seeing the waves of draconic fire make its way towards them. Wartortle, quickly withdrew his limbs and head into its shell as the fire fell upon it. The searing fire warped around the shell and stayed put for several seconds before Smaug stopped his attack.
When the green flames died down, Wartortle's shell was revealed, ashen and burned. Wartortle was unconscious on the seared ground, either from the lack of air or the intense heat from the attack.
Gary groaned in defeat as he returned his downed starter. Ash did too, even with Smaug the victor he was still weak from the direct hit from the Water Pulse and would have fainted from enduring the pain.
They went back to the Pokemon Center and had Nurse Joy heal their pokemon as Violet came up to them.
"Who won?" she said kindly, a tone Ash was not familiar with.
"Ash won, but I had him on the ropes. If I had hit his Charmeleon one more time I would have won." Gary said as he rubbed his head in frustration.
"Well maybe you'll win the next time we have a battle." Ash said, as Nurse Joy handed them their poke-balls. An awkward silenced deafened Nurse Joy's work.
"So, umm I'm going to breakfast, care to join me?" he asked nervously. It was really trying on him, spending time with his formerly most hated person wasn't easy.
Thankfully they both nodded, and they followed him as they went to the local cafeteria. Ritchie was in there, surprisingly, feeding his pokemon bits of his sandwich.
"Hey Ritchie." Ash said, as he went to the counter and picked out a sandwich for himself. Violet and Gary did the same, as they sat at the same table as Ritchie and Ash
"Who are they?" Ritchie asked, regarding to Gary and Violet.
"I'm Gary. " Gary said, waving his hand.
"I'm Violet." She said, pointing to herself.
"Nice to meet you." Ritchie said, cheerfully.
"I'm guessing you guys are heading to Vermillion too?" he asked, taking another bite from his sandwich.
"Wanna travel together? It'll be safer as we get to Vermillion." Ritchie pointed out. Gary and Violet nodded their agreement at traveling together.
"Maybe, I don't know either to stop at Saffron or just brave it to Vermillion." Ash said, digging in to his own sandwich.
"It'll be faster to just make it Vermillion. And there will be plenty of supplies there." Violet pointed out.
"But what happens if we get held back by something?" Gary questioned.
"It'll be better to just head to Saffron, gather supplies and then head to Vermillion." he said. "All in favor raise their hands."
Gary and Ash's hands were up instantly, Ritchie reluctantly raised his, and with a sigh Violet's hand went up too.
"Alright we head out tommorow." Gary said as he finished his sandwich.
Ash and his pokemon lazily waited on the dew rich grass, as the morning sun began peeking over the horizon. He slowly twirled Dratini's poke-ball in his palm before he said, "Alright. I want all of you alert. You all are going to meet our new team mate." he said, before he released Dratini.
In a flash of light, a six-foot long, blue scaled, serpent appeared. It had frilly, yet solid white frills, a white nose, and a gem in the middle of its forehead. I slithered around before Smaug came up to it. It gave a sharp hiss, before it released a small spark of electricity at Smaug.
If it had been a regular attack, Smaug would have been all over his attacker, breathing hot fire and slashing at it with sharp claws. But this was no ordinary attack. It was a Thunder Wave.
Smaug reached at Dratini with his claws sluggishly, before Dratini lashed out with its tail, which was glowing blue. It right against Smaug's foot making him trip and fall right on his face.
Dratini slithered away before Mael shot a stream of ice in the area in front of it, creating a small wall of ice. Tyrunt lunged at Dratini, its jaws full of ice, but a geyser of water shot out of the ground knocking him out of course of his attack.
Dratini quickly maneuvered away from Mael's ice attack, and began shooting blast of blue energy at him. Mael's scales, as strong as they were, began to withered away because of Dratini's constant attacks.
Finally, Mael's Ice Beam hit Dratini, encasing its body in a thick casing of ice. It tried wriggling out, but Ash have had enough. His sword came slowly in front of its eyes, which soon found Ash's.
"Enough. I will not have anymore trouble from you okay? I don't care how strong you are, but I am your trainer now and these are your teammates. We are your new family. If, however, you fight with them anymore or hurt them, I will not hesitate to leave you inside a Poke-ball for the rest of your life. You understand?" Ash said threateningly. He loomed over Dratini, his eyes now dangerously blue and his shadow seemed to be made of pure darkness. The rest of his dragons, were by his side looking down at Dratini.
Whatever thought of defiance was left in Dratini was crushed, seeing its new trainer. It nodded its head hesatiantly in understanding. Ash gave a look at Smaug, who nodded and released a small stream of fire at the ice around Dratini. It quickly melted away, freeing Dratini from its confides.
It looked at Ash and nodded its head before it slithered away and coiled itself around a tree.
Ash looked at Abra, who nodded her head giving Ash a reassured feeling. Dratini could be trusted. For now.
Ash took out his Poke-Dex and scanned Dratini and watched as the data popped up.
Dratini; the dragon pokemon
Sex: Male
This pokemon is sometimes called the 'Mirage Pokemon' because of its scales, which can blend in with its surroundings.
Moves known, Thunder Wave, Dragon Rage, Wrap, Dragon Tail
'Not bad' Ash thought looking at Dratini's move set
New Data
New moves available for; Dratini, Charmeleon, Tyrunt, and Seadra.
Charmeleon; Dragon Claw, Slash, Fire Punch, Brick Break
Tyrunt; Fire Fang, Hone Claw, Stomp, Outrage
Seadra; Water Pulse, Whirlpool, Twister, Dragon Pulse
Dratini; Shockwave, Swift, Water Gun,Camouflage
"Oh" Ash said, seeing all the moves his team could learn. Seeing the rest of his companions walk out the front door of the Pokemon Center, he returned all of his pokemon and tucked his Poke-dex back into his satchel, as he walked over to meet them.
"Were lost."
"No we are not."
"Yes we are."
"No."
"Yes."
"No."
"Yes."
Ritchie and Violet bickered as they trekked through a field, supposedly heading towards Saffron. They had been going at it for awhile, and it was annoying Gary and Ash to no end. It was already early morning. They had camped in the plains the night before, bathing in the heat of Smaug's fire and those two had been bickering ever since.
"Will you two shut up!" Ash snapped, finally losing his cool. Ritchie and Violet were instantly silenced.
They continued on for a while before a weird sound began annoying Ash again.
"Would you two stop that?" he asked angrily. It was getting louder too.
"That's not us!' They said.
They, too were looking around for the source of the noise. Gary was readying his shield and sword as the noise grew closer and louder. Ash unsheathed his sword as the noise stopped.
Then the Abominations appeared. It was just one, who stood upon the hill that sounded the call. Then dozens upon dozens began crawling towards them. Ritchie and Violet drew their weapons, as their starters were called onto the field.
When the first wave came, they did surprisingly well. Many were slain as their blades connected with their flesh and their life seeped out of their wounds.
Ash slashed one's throat while Smaug covered his back, blowing a large stream of fire onto a pack of them. Gary and his Wartortle were using the perfect mixture of offense and defense as they kept the monstrosities of their back sides.
Ritchie and Violet worked well together, they covered each other as the other went on the attack. Pikachu and her Bulbasaur, were whipping and electrocuting the ones they couldn't get.
But even with their efficient skills with weaponry, they were being pushed back drastically. Slashes began appearing where armor did not cover. Limbs were pierced where sharp fangs bit, and pained and tired grunts filled the air.
Ash sliced one's leg off as he punched another in the face. Smaug was beside him, piercing flesh with his Metal Claws, as they kept on coming.
But when hope began settling in when the Abominations stopped coming from over the hill and the their attack force began dwindling, a larger, more terrifying screech filled the air.
And over the hill came a gargantuan. Its hulking body made up of raw flesh that blood and disease dripped off. Its arms where huge, as it balanced its self on its huge fist. Its head was small, but it didn't stop the terror that filled their bodies.
It instantly smashed Ritchie and Gary away with one swing of its massive arm; their pained grunts signaling their defeat. Violet was too busy fighting the overwhelming forces of the smaller creatures to help. So Ash was next.
Ash was knocked clear of his feet as the beast charged him down. His right arm, along with his sword, were smashed into the ground. Agony that made Ash almost faint filled his body as a sickening crack was heard, as steel and bone were cracked and broken.
But in an act of defiance Ash gripped his hilt, which still held a piece of sharp metal, and slashed at the head of the beast, who had lowered its head to finish Ash. It screeched in pain as blood flowed freely from where the steel had met flesh. His left arm was now pinned to the ground by the beast other arm.
As the beast lowered its injured head towards Ash, he accepted his fate. Smaug couldn't help him, he was currently blasting out flames onto the giant with out any luck. Abra's teleportation wouldn't work inside her poke-ball. And death was mere inches from his face.
Do not fear Lord Ash. Your death will not happen today. Do you not hear it? Your salvation? The thundering of hooves?
He could hear it. It was small at first, like a pebble falling down a mountain side. But it grew and soon an avalanche of hooves began drawing near their battle field.
The Abominations soon began bellowing a horrible cacophony of calls that seemed to rally them, including the giant, and form a large huddle, facing the sound of the hooves.
Ash was in to much pain to get up. Fire was seeping into his arm, as he struggled to move away. But a pair of strong arms caught him and help support him as he stood up and limped away, leaning on Smaug.
The thundering had stopped now. Dozens of men on large stallions of white and black stood on the hill, their weapons and armor flashing brilliantly in the sun. Flags of yellow and black streamed behind them, caught by the morning wind. Their steeds, bowed and huffed as they faced down the Abominations below them. Then the leader broke the line and charged at his foes, followed by the thundering of his knights close behind him. They rode down and closed the distance between them as the blood shed began.
The knights of yellow, rode down their enemies. They slashed, pierced, and cleaved at anything in their path. Nothing could resist their fury. The ground shook with their charge, the Pidgeys and Spearows fled from the battle. Even the wind seemed to stop and gaze in awe at their attack.
Their swords and spears flashed with blood as they continued riding down their foes. Their steeds trampled anything below them. Nothing could stop them. Not even the giant, who fell dead, with multiple spears impaled into its flesh. When the handful of Abominations fled, the horde of shining knights turned to them.
Only he and Violet were still conscious enough to see them approach. They were helpless, Ash's old armor was broken and cracked from the force of the giant and his sword's remnants were in his lap.
The leader hopped of his steed, followed by a large orange mouse, that Ash recognized as a Raichu. He quickly walked over and examined them.
"Medic! Get the Medic!" he hollered, as he removed his helmet revealing a long and spiky yellow hair. It was Lt. Surge, Leader of Vermillion.
"Kid you alright?" he said, as he put his hand on Ash's shoulder to stir him. From the breaking of his right arm, and the previous injuries from the other Abominations, Ash was on the verge of passing out. He nodded his head weakly.
"Don't worry kid. We'll get you and your friends some where safe to help you okay." Surge said reassuringly. Again Ash nodded weakly.
"Medic hurry up! These kids are dying over here!" Surge bellowed. Ash patted Smaug's head for comfort, his starter wouldn't leave his side. Through hell or death.
The medic finally arrived, and began examining all of them. After taking care of all the minor wounds, he turned to Lt. Surge and said, "They have major injuries Lt. Surge. I need medical equipment."
The Lt. nodded before one of his subordinates asked. "Why should we aid these brats? We need to finish off the infestation. Leave them here. They aren't even apart of Vermillion' he said.
Lt. Surge turned ferociously towards the man who had spoken. "Those 'brats' are the reason there are a handful of monsters left. If they had not fought off the beast, we would never have caught up to them and finish them off. And any person who has fought for justice in the territory of Vermillion, is one of my men. And I don't leave a man behind." he growled at the man, who shrunk back in fear.
"Riders! Mount up! We ride back to Fort Ozone!" Lt. Surge hollered as he picked up Ash, who returned Smaug back to his poke-ball, and placed him on his steed, while three other riders took care of Ritchie, Violet, and Gary.
Then they began galloping as a unit towards the south, where the city of Vermillion laid. Surge's Raichu hopped in front of Ash, and began trying to get his attention. But it was far too late. Ash was in too much pain, and he blacked out.
Ash awoke groggily on a rather uncomfortable bed. Its mattress was lumpy and the bed squeaked and shivered every time he moved. His right arm was aching but it was no longer limp. The bones were fixed he thought as he flexed his fingers. Gary, Violet, and
Ritchie were on another three beds beside him, slowly stirring from their slumber.
The sun's rays flowed from the old windows of the building. It was made of carved stone and in some places gentle light streamed in. He tried to sit up, only for his body to blaze with pain. He quickly pulled up his green chain mail shirt, revealing several large bandages covering his body, red with his blood, and in some places leaking. Large bruises also dotted his body, the largest being in the area where his arm was broken. He could barely lift it of the bed with out it hurting, but at least the bone was healed.
A medical kit sat beside his bed, various medical supplies tucked inside of it. He gingerly reached over and brought the kit to himself before he began opening its contents. Bandages, various medicine bottles, ointments, and several shots full of an unknown medication.
Ash began stripping off the red bandages, wincing as the raw flesh was disturbed and revealed to the air. He quickly added ointment to the freshly disturbed flesh. After putting the ointment on he added a fresh bandage to the wound, making sure to make it tight and secure. He repeated the process before all his wounds were replaced with fresh bandages, Ash put away the medical supples back into the kit before he began to sit up.
It still hurt, but Ash pulled through as he full sat up. He swung his aching legs of his bed, luckily his boots had been left with him along with a pair of socks.
He slowly got up, but he trembled a bit has his legs wobbled as is lost its numbness. Ash slowly made his way to a night stand where his satchel, belt, and poke-balls were placed neatly together.
He put his satchel on, grimacing as his satchel disturbed some of his bruises. He clipped on his belt and attached his poke-balls to it before he summoned Smaug from his poke-ball.
The young crimson draconic lizard appeared in a flash of white light. He gave a loud yawn before he looked at Ash worriedly. Ash gently patted his head before he said
"I'm a bit beat up but I'll live." Ash said, cracking his necks to get rids of its kinks.
Smaug seemed to accept his statment before he released a puff of flames as he stretched his body. He looked at the rest of Ash's poke-balls before he looked at Ash again.
"Not yet. I need to find out where we are." Ash said, as he and Smaug began walking out of the building.
A wise choice
Abra's voice said, from the confinements of her poke-ball.
The others are growing restless. Especially the dragon of rocks.
"Tell them they will be out soon. I don't know where we are."
As you wish.
Abra said, before silence was heard again. Ash and Smaug continued to trek through the odd ruins. It was all made of finely cut stone which still stood after how many years since it was made.
The walls and ruins around Ash were old, but strong. Several soldiers were hustling about weapons and pokemon with them. The bangs of a hammer against red hot metal echoed through out the area, and Ash could smell the wood being burnt inside of a forge.
Even though humans had advanced so far in so many fields, weaponry was severly under studied. Guns were an oddity in a world of swords and arrows. Newer cities like Cerulean, Pewter, and Viridian were equipped with them, but they were mostly used for apprehending criminals, not for dealing with pokemon. Gangs also used them, the largest being Team Rocket was buying and using them during all of their heist, seeing getting steel weapons would be too expensive.
The clunking and shifting of tired feet drew Ash's attention to his companion's beds. Their injuries were all taken cared off and bandaged, as they all groggily put on their equipment and released their pokemon.
"Where are we?" Violet said, as she summoned Bulbasaur from its poke-ball.
"I think we're at one of Vermillion's fortresses." Ash said, pointing to a group of soldiers heading to a tower.
"What happened?" Gary asked rubbing his head to ease some pain of his headache.
"We were saved by Vermillion forces, and they took us here to heal our wounds." Violet explained to Ritchie and Gary.
"Ohh you guys are up? The doctors said it would be a week before you guys would wake up!" Lt. Surge said as he walked towards them. He had replaced his rider armor for a more decroative one, that was colored black and yellow.
"Yeah, were sore though. But do you know what happened to the rest of our equipment?" Ash asked, as they began walking towards the Lieutenant.
"Sure, follow me and I'll get you to the Forge." he said kindly as he turned around and they began following him through the maze of stone structures.
"I hope you guys don't mind all the stone everywhere, Fort Ozone has been left for ruin for almost 300 years."
Lt. Surge led them through the ancient ruins of Fort Ozone, one of the original fortress that Hoenn had built to hold their authority in Kanto.
"We began making an operational base here when I became the leader of Vermillion. It may be a mess in some places, but its still a well built base. Infact I got over 4000 men stationed here." Lt Surge said with pride in his voice. Indeed, high stone walls loomed around them, with dozens of men on them armed with bows and arrows.
"Were going to clear out the rest of the mess and use them to reinforce the walls." he continued as they made their way to the forge. The beating of the hammer continued as they entered inside.
It was hot as the roaring flames of the fire flared with life as an elderly man and a large Magmar sat by the anvil and water tank. The old Magmar raised its head and stared at them before it fell to the ground to rest again. Smaug walked over to the Magmar and the two seemed to comunicate with each other.
The old man turned around and smile as he saw them. His shoulders were broad, and his arms were covered in burn scars. His moustache was stained with ash and he held a wooden cane to steady himself.
"The name's Max. Pleasure to meet you." Max greeted as he sat back down on his chair. He began rumaging through his bag as Lt. Surge began speaking.
"I hope you recognize Max, he's an extremely powerful trainer." Lt Surge said. But by their clueless expressions they didn't know who Max was.
"He is a former member of the Elite Four! Magma Max they called him!" he said in shock.
"Calm down Surge, my glory days were long ago, long before they were born.", he said with a smile as he began pulling stuff out of his bag.
"When you guys are done I'll meet you at South Wall." Lt. Surge said as he left the forge.
"Alright lets get started. I repaired most of your armor and weapons. But for the girl and him, I had to remake them." Max said as he handed Ritchie and Gary their armor and weapons.
"Girl whats your name?" he said as he pulled out a bow that was beautifully carved into ebony wood.
"Violet sir."
" I could not repair your dagger, but I could still use the metal. I made several arrow heads with them and I made this bow for you." Max said as he handed her the sheathe of arrows and bows. Violet stared in awe at the weapon in her hands before she looked back at Max.
"Go take it out for a try. There is a practice field behind the forge, and take your friends with you, so they can try out their weapons." he said. Violet nodded before she left the forge, followed by Gary and Ritchie.
Then, Max turned to Ash and a smile grace his face.
"Well I never thought your Grandfather was smart enough to get a woman and make a family, but here you are."
"You knew my Grandfather?" Ash asked in surprise.
"Yep, me and him were best of friends, till we went our separate ways. I went to the rest of the of the regions and he went to settle down. I see he passed down his armor to you."
"Yeah and his sword too, before he Abominations destroyed it." Ash said sadly.
"Thats what you call them? Vermillion just calls them the infestation." Max said.
"Well anyways your armor and sword were too broken and cracked for me to fix, so I had to melt it down and recreate them."
"Did it work?" Ash inquired, worried for the safety of his family's heirloom.
"Yes it did work. In fact almost too well for my taste. Usually it takes me awhile for me to finish a project like fixing your equipment, but it took me less than a day for me to finish everything. It was almost like it wanted to be remade." Max said, stroking his mustache.
"Well might as well show you." Max said as he revealed Ash's cuirass. It was gleaming and its shoulder plates were like he mouths of dragons. A garment of fur hung of the back of it and it all looked like it took years to make. His gauntlets, shin guards, and arm guards were the same though.
His helmet was remade and grander than ever. While the other's decorations was dull this one was prominent and shiny as two dragons on either side of his helmet breath fire to the center of it. It was even more comfortable to wear with cool leather to line the inside of his helmet.
Then his sword. While his old one was short and broad, this one was long and thinned out at the tip. It was at least a foot and a half longer, but was a bit lighter than its former version. The hand guards were straight and plain and in the center of the hilt was a blue gem that gleamed in the fire's light.. Ash looked up at Max for an explanation.
"I didn't have anything to do with this. The metal did all the work and the gem mysteriously appeared there. I don't know how though, I was watching it the entire time."
Ash brandished it in front of his face and in the light of the fire, it gleamed softly with a orange aura. This was no ordinary weapon now. It had been reborn into a tool of a warrior.
"I'd best be going if I were you. If you want to arrive at Vermillion by night fall I would head out now." Max said as Ash put on his armor. It fit perfectly and the helmet was cool on the inside, even though being near a hot fire all day long.
The sword, however, felt in alien hands at the way Ash held it. It gently shook but Ash took no heed to it as he sheathed it back into its new scabbard.
He walked out of the forge and made his way to the practice field, to find Violet pinning arrows into targets with deadly accuracy.
"She's a natural." Ritchie said, as he made his way to Ash, his Pikachu hanging off his shoulder. Gary and Violet were talking to themselves at one side of the field while Ash and Ritchie talked on another. Even though Ash and the young Oaks had made up, the tension was still there in the air and wrung like a string, one move could snap it.
Violet once again began shooting arrow after deadly arrow into the straw targets. It was like she practiced everyday of her life. She practiced the same flawless technique of drawing the arrow from its quiver, knocking it into place on the bow, pulling the string and releasing it into its objective.
Then, Ash began noticing all of their armor. Violet's armor was light and was made of leather that matched the color of her arrow quiver. Gary's was about the same, but it was more enforced with steel and his shield, which used to be wood and iron, was now steel with two leather straps attaching to Gary's arm. Ritchie's was like one of Fort Ozone's soldiers armor. Plain but strong, and his sword was now longer and it had a better hilt than his original's one.
"Well I guess we better get moving now. " Ritchie said as he began walking towards the South Wall. The rest of them followed him as he cheerfully strode through the ancient ruins.
The streets of Fort Ozone were lined with dozens of different types of stations to tend to the army. Barracks, armament storages, cafeterias, stables for the steeds of the riders, and many other buildings.
Battalions of men stood at attention as other patrolled the walls. Carts pulled by large Electrivires carried loads of bundled weapons from the various other forges at the fortress.
It took awhile but they finally made it to the huge gates of the South Wall. It was steel and wood bolted together with a huge arc of stone on top of it. Lieutenant Surge was standing there and smiled as he watched them approach.
"I see Max got you all suited up. Well I hate to say this, but you won't be able to challenge me in awhile. I've got to clear up some matters with our Riders and with the infestation." he said, as he massaged his head with his hand.
"What about this? You come by later when you've collected the rest of the your badges? I'll be sure to give you a tough battle." Lt. Surge offered.
They all nodded in understanding before Violet asked him a question.
"Sir what are those things that you ride. They aren't obviously native to Kanto."
"Oh you mean the Zebstrikas? We got a bunch of them from Unova because they have a problem in controlling herds. They're powerful pokemon and light on their feet, too. Soon we'll have enough to match Blaine's Rapidash calvary.", he said.
"Well see you in awhile Lt. Surge." Ritchie said. Thats when hell broke loose.
Three explosions sounded through the base and tremors made them wobble as pillars of smoke rose into the air from the attack. More explosive attacks rained onto the fort sending soldiers sprawling around returning to their post.
"Kinsley! Whats going on?" Lt. Surge roared as he unsheathed his sword. A young, blond haired girl, who was sitting,along with several other officers, at what looked like a communications table answered him.
"Sir, we have multiple mortars firing from the north. Alpha and Zane company have been engaged by Team Rocket along with the infestation. Bravo and Xray are ready to go at your command." she said, as more explosions hit the base.
"Send Xray to deal with the mortars, have Bravo back up Alpha and Zane. How many of the infestation are we dealing with?"
"You're not going to like it. Reports are saying about 10,000 are heading towards us."
'Ten thousand? Ten thousand humans and pokemon experimented on and turned into monsters just to sate the lust of blood of one man. I can't do it. They're just innocent living things.
No! Ash snap out of it. These things serve their dark master, they have no feelings. I just have to end their misery. Yes, thats right end their misery.'
Ash thought to himself as he gripped his sword.
"Lt. Surge, Charlie, Delta, and Flare company are waiting for you to lead them into battle."
"Grrrr, fine. You four stay within the fortress, don't engage large groups, just help where you can. I'll be right back." he said, as he released his imposing Zebrstrika from its poke-ball. He gripped a spear Kinsley gave him and rode off to the North Wall.
After watching him ride off, the four of them began running towards the North as well, returning their starters so they didn't hinder their speed. Along the way, they saw hundreds of calvary ride along the stone road, spears in the air and shields held tightly.
When they made it to the area where the mortar shells had hit the wall they found that the archers above were shooting arrows to the mass of infestation on the other side of the wall, and large groups of Electric-type pokemon joined them, shooting bolts of electricity onto the other side.
Dozens of soldiers were rushing to the north gate as the calvary rode out, killing any abominations that were coming in. Elekids, Electrabuzzes, and Electrivires were combating the leaking in abominations, with powerful fist of electricity. But even with their help, they were being overrun by the sheer amount of mangled corpses.
The four rookie trainers released their starters and drew their new weapons as a large group of them began heading towards them. Streams of fire, water, electricity, and whips from powerful vines, attacked the charging beast, along with Violet's arrows pinning and killing several others.
When the beast closed in, the swords and claws of them slashed violently against their flesh and their mangled screams of pain sounded into the air. They were much larger than the ones that had ambushed them. They were bulkier, had no hair, and looked more like savage beast then living creatures. Their jaws were strong and full of wicked black fangs, and their claws were like small daggers.
Ash swung his new blade at a close one and he cleaved right through its head, killing it instantly. He swung to his left slicing the belly of one that had lunged at him. One had crept to his left, only to be blasted by a stream of fire, courtesy of Smaug.
The others were doing well, also. Violet stood behind them, shooting arrow after arrow at any approaching beast, her Bulbasaur sent razor sharp leaves that quickly amputated and killed any ones she missed. Ritchie was currently stabbing one through the cheek, as his Pikachu shocked an incoming one. Gary was bashing one with his shield as Wartortle blasted one with a powerful Water Gun.
The shouts and commands of officers could be heard from the high wall above them, and the stampeding of hooves was heard through the thick stone wall. The thought, however, of 400 men riding Zebstrika against a horde of 10,000 experimented monsters, unnerved Ash as he killed another one with a thrust of his sword into its throat.
Soon the number of the abominations began dwindling as the holes and entry ways they used were being boarded and barricaded. They finished off the ones in their area before they started moving away.
Not too far way was a watch tower which seemed to be deserted by its occupants to help against the horde of invading creatures. One at a time they began climbing the ladder to the top to find several telescopes, binoculars and other tracking equipment.
But, they did not need a telescope to see the size of their threat. For outside the safe stone walls of Fort Ozone was a mass of red and pink creatures, slowly edging their way towards them. They could also see a blur of black and yellow retreat back to them, tailed by the hoard.
The only thing that reassured Ash was the thought that they couldn't breach the protective wall of their fortress. Sure, they were strong and great in numbers, but their fangs and claws could not destroy stone.
It was just a waiting game.
.
.
.
.
Several hours had passed since the attack and things had been the same. Xray company had taken out Team Rocket's mortars and had fled back to the safety of Fort Ozone. Lt. Surge and the his companies had fallen back due the sheer size of the attack, and had declared that they would wait it out. Archers still laid barrage after barrage of arrows onto the horde, but it was slow work.
They had tried to help, but there was no work to be done. The only thing to do was carry bundle after bundle of arrows to the Archers.
It was the seventh hour of the attack before commotion began happening. The horde of abominations, now dwindled in size, began fleeing and retreating from the fortress.
They had won.
The cheers and bellows of happiness could be heard through out the fort, along with the cries of pokemon as the army of creatures fled. The Sun was setting already casting an orange light through out the sky making Ash feel warm inside, as they all left the watch tower.
Then it came.
The cheering of the men was cut harshly by the loud screeches that sent everyone back to their post.
From the north, flying overhead of the horde, were dozens of grey winged beast, led by a gigantic one. Ash had to guess it was almost 50 feet long, and its wing span almost twice its body length. And to make it worse, it gave off a dangerous aura that the Demon gave off. So this was the Beast of the Air.
They were closing in on the fort, now. The beast stayed behind though, watching as its minions fell upon the base. Arrows were already being shot at them, some of them were already falling to the ground dead, but it was not enough.
The line of archers was breached as the silver beasts caught some of them with their talons and dropping and knocking soldiers to the hard stone ground. The archers began fleeing from the wall, knowing it was no longer safe to be on.
More and more were attacking the fort, their terrible screeches filling the air. Bolts of electricity were being shot at them, felling quite a few ot them. Ash had seen one fly by with a figure of red flames hanging off it, stripping away mounds of silver flesh, as it flew by screeching in pain as Ash realized it was Max's Magmar.
One had approached the four of them, thinking they were an easy meal, and had attacked. Violet shot an arrow right into its throat, as it landed, earning her a screech of pain. Ritchie and Gary had began swinging their swords at its head, only for them to be knocked away by a gust of its wings. Ritchie, it seemed was its target, as it closed in on him. His Pikachu jumped right in front of him and blasted the beast with a powerful Thundershock, before he was knock away by its folded wing. It bared its jaws, revealing rows of sharp, and curved teeth. Nothing it seemed would distract it. They tried everything on it. No. Ritchie would not die today.
Time slowed down for Ash, has he sprinted towards Ritchie. The beast had reared its head back and was about to strike when Ash reached him. A certain fire had built inside of Ash, as he swung his new blade at the beast. He didn't expect much. Its scales had weathered off all of his previous attempts at hurting it, but he would die if he watched Ritchie die helplessly.
Ash's sword connected with its neck, and instead of his blade being glanced off its scales, it went completely through. He met resistance has he continued his strike, but he pushed on, determined to save his friend. And with all of his might, he severed the head of the great beast, spewing blood every where. Its headless body wriggled around a bit, before it fell to the ground, dead.
However, there was no time to celebrate for Ash, as he helped Ritchie up. The gigantic beast gave off a terrifying screech that silenced and froze everyone. And like that, all the grey creatures retreated.
The Beast began flapping its wings rapidly, soon they became a blur, and a wall of wind encircled Fort Ozone, completely trapping them. And its body seemed to mend with the wind and its body disappeared. Two red pupils then opened and the wind of the walls darkened as it gave off a thunderous roar, that made everyone kneel to it. This was no normal creature's power.
This was the power of a GOD.
Suddenly Ash's lungs tightened up and he began coughing and wheezing, along with everyone else, before he knew what was happening. It was taking all of the oxygen from the air. It was suffocating them.
They could do nothing. This was the power of a God and they were mere mortals.
Soon, Ash's vision began darkening as he fell to the ground, defeated. They all were going to die. His life was meaningless. All he was was food for abominations and beasts. He closed his eyes and welcomed the darkness.
.
.
.
.
Then a clap of thunder disrupted the wall of wind, dispersing it and revealing the Beast, who snarled at the one who opposed it. Fresh air was greedily taken as everyone gasped for new breath. Lightining and dark clouds began closing in, until the sky was completely covered in thunder clouds. And they were soon thrown aprat to reveal their savior.
Zapdos. The Lord of Thunder. Lighting's Blade. And one of the three guardian birds of Kanto had arrived.
Zapdos was gigantic. Its grand gold wings beat with thunder, and its squaks were like lighting arching through the sky.
The Beast snarled at it before its minions began hording their way towards the God of Lighting, but it paid no heed to them. With a beat of its massive wings it sailed through the wind making its way to the Beast, calling our in challenge.
The Beast's minions were about to follow the Thunder Bird, only for them to be occupied by Zapdos's minions.
Great Pidgeots and Fearows squaked and screeched as they flew into the silver beast. Talons entertwinded as they fought for dominace of the air. They used their sharp beaks and powerful wings to fight the beast, who in turn bit and slashed at them.
But they were paid no heed as they battled in the sky. All focus was on Zapdos and the Beast of the Air.
Both had propelled themselves at each other, and a bloody wrestling session had begun, as they fought with their physical might. Their mere presence seemed to make each other bleed as they swiped their talons and claws at each other.
Then Zapdos flew back and released a beam of pure lightning at the Beast. A blinding explosion filled the sky, quelling all other light, before an explosion followed that shook the Earth and made the stone walls of Fort Ozone crumble.
But even with all its might, it barely scathed he Beast, who in turn released a powerful twister from its maw which completely swallowed Zapdos. A couple of seconds passed before a pulse of lightning destroyed the twister and forced back the Beast.
Zapdos looked completely riled up with the fight as electricity coursed through its feathers and wings, but the Beast, apparently, had enough of the fight. It gave a loud screech before it flew away, followed by its minions as it departed for the North.
Angered Zapdos and its minions followed suit and the thunder clouds it had created followed them.
Lordofire here, hope you guys like this chapter. Its my Christmas present to you and the largest I have ever written. Almost 12,000 words. Again if you guys have anything to say. Put it into a Review or PM me. Advice is greatly accepted.