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DISCLAIMER: I Do NOT own Pokémon.

Chapter 25: Oceans Apart

Ruby's POV

I went out of the pokemon center after finishing a long battle against Claire. As I figured, Dragon-types were strong. It took off a huge weight off of my shoulders after winning and acquiring the Rising Badge.

Outside, I was greeted by the blinding sunlight. I winced and retreated back to the shade to adjust my vision to the lighting. After about a minute, I stretched my arms and breathed in the atmosphere of Blackthorn City. The air was dry and warm. It was probably because the surroundings were tall rugged mountains instead of acres of forestry like the previous towns and cities. But maybe it was just the essence of the current autumn season.

Anyway, I can't stop to smell the flowers. I had things to do.

I took out my badge case and opened it. Slowly, I scanned its contents and counted. "That's two badges. Sapph has four and …and soon it will be five," I said to myself. The last part made me smile. "She is really working hard. She's almost to her goal. And here I am…"

I mentally slapped myself. I can't keep doubting or overthink things like this. 'Stay focused.' I can't give in to my weaknesses. Not like that time. I grit my teeth and clenched my hand at the memory. Then I exhaled deeply and calmed myself. My head was filled with pessimism. I had to stay positive.

I've gotten this far and Celebi's is watching over me as well, so everything will work out.

"Everything will work out," a different voice in my head echoed.

It was accompanied by a sense of nostalgia that eased by heart further. I smiled once again. "One more to go and then I can see you again."

Visions of our times together swirled in my head. Though they were short, I learned so much. I also had fun. I wrapped myself with my hooded cloak and looked up at the sky.

"Till then… Jade."

Sapphire's POV

The battle continued onwards with Moro and Jasmine's Steelix.

It was heavily one-sided. The iron snake pokemon was part ground which meant Moro's electrical attacks had no effect. All my Flaaffy could was attack with Signal Beam and buy some time with Flash or Confuse Ray.

Even then….

We were getting nowhere.

Jasmine's Steelix was not only a tough defender but fierce attacker. It had the type and size advantage. It delivered an onslaught of Iron Tail and a combination of ground and steel attacks. It was only a matter of time before Moro was knocked out.

Now, I only have Toro and the enemy looked unscathed from the last round.

After I sent out my Blaziken, cheers came from behind me as well as camera clicks. I felt a sweat drop. Here I was feeling pressured and all they do is stay totally positive. A small grin curved on my face. Better not let them down.

The deciding round commenced.

I had Toro close in with a combination of Blaze Kick and Fire Punch. The enemy swerved around to dodge it. A few managed to connect but the surprising flexibility of Jasmine's Steelix made the critical ones miss.

The iron snake pokemon fought back with various attacks. Neither the head nor the tail proved a safe place for us to attack. If Toro was close, it would use Iron Tail or Thunder Fang. Toro managed to endure those and I was grateful that the Thunder Fang didn't paralyze her. We tried to go for the middle body but it proved only more dangerous when my Blaziken was almost caught in its Bind attack.

The only option was to go long-range.

"Toro, use Fire Spin!"

Jumping away from the enemy, My Blaziken released a torrent of blazing flames from her fists that swirled into a cyclone, surrounding the Steelix

"Counter with Sandstorm," Jasmine instructed.

The titan-size iron snake pokemon lifted its head spun around rapidly, creating a tornado that kicked up the sandy particles from the arena.

In an instant, Toro's Fire Spin was negated and the gym was filled with swirling winds of sand. I shielded my face as I tried to pinpoint my pokemon in the brown haze. I saw a familiar silhouette standing firm before me. I only felt sort of relieved due to the fact that I couldn't see where the enemy was at that point.

Suddenly, I felt the ground shake. Was it another earthquake? My gut feeling told me otherwise. "Toro, watch out from under ya!"

Immediately, my Blaziken jumped out of the way, mere seconds from being struck by the iron snake pokemon who sprung out of the ground. I thought for a second that we were safe. Then I saw that enemy was lunging at Toro who was still in mid-air.

I reacted quickly. "Flamethrower!"

Pushing through the blinding sand winds, Toro aimed her fists at the opponent and unleashed a searing wave of crimson-orange flames that even blew away the surrounding waves of sand. The attack was headed straight for Jasmine's Steelix with no means of evading it.

"Use Flash Cannon!" Jasmine ordered.

The iron snake pokemon became enveloped in a white light as it fired a pale-blue light from its massive jaws. Both attacks cleared away the sandstorm and clashed in a blinding light, but neither assaults ended. Each side was still pouring out their move with unrelenting will. The attacks continued to move back and forth, neither side looking to give in.

I believed in Toro's power but our position was unfavorable. She was in the air without any support to hold her down unlike the Steelix who was standing firm on the arena floor. My expectations came true when I saw her getting pushed back by the force of the attacks, both hers and the enemy's. I grunted with dread, fearing that Toro was going to slam the ceiling.

But then, my Blaziken positioned itself on surface, planting her strong legs on the gym's roof for her needed support. The force of the attacks kept her in place and the ceiling finally gave her the needed momentum to push her assault further.

"Finish it with Blast Burn!"

With a stabilized stance, Toro unleashed the full force of her flames into a surging torrent of fire. The attack was too great that it consumed the Steelix's Flash Cannon as well as the Steelix itself. It roared in a high-pitch screech.

Toro landed back to her place in front of me as the fires died down. My heart continued to pound as I stared at the figure inside the flames. When the flames finally receded, the Steelix glared at us, breathing heavily with scorch marks in several places on its body. I almost couldn't believe that it was still standing.

The atmosphere was at a standstill.

Then, the massive iron snake pokemon fell to the ground, unconscious. I almost felt like my nerves were shot. I released my breath that I was unintentionally holding. Small cheers erupted from behind me. I managed a small laugh as I looked up at Toro who came over to me. I put on my proud grin as we did a high-five in victory.

Jasmine petted her Steelix and withdrew it from the arena grounds. Then she came over with a smile of admiration and handed me the Mineral Badge, my fifth one. I gratefully accepted it and thanked her for a great battle.

Lapis and the others came over to extend their congratulations over my win as well as take a couple more shots. Momo jumped into my arms gleefully and then diligently brushed away the sand and dirt from my clothes and hair.

I halted her abruptly when Jasmine had something to say. She handed Lapis and I a flyer for a small pokemon contest that was held nearby. Apparently, the prize was a Shiny Stone. When she saw Momo, she thought that we would like to try out for the prize.

My Minccino became ecstatic. Her eyes gleamed with the thought of herself becoming a Cinccino. I sweat-dropped. I wasn't any good at pokemon contest. That was Ruby's domain. But Momo pleaded with her large round scarlet eyes. What other choice did I have?

"I can participate," Lapis suggested with a smiling face that I felt was holding back most of the eagerness that he actually had.

Momo turned away from me and jumped into Lapis' arms and nestled close to him gratefully as she wagged her fluffy tail. Traitor.

There was another agenda in my mind. "What about your arm?"

"It'll be fine. I won't strain it so much," Lapis replied.

In the end, I let them do as they pleased. By request and for the time-being, I lent him the Amaura that I was going to give to Ruby. Then I took my team back to the pokemon center and they did their preparations in the lobby. I was having déjà vu, once again. I remembered how Ruby was like that whenever pokemon contests were in the picture.

After I got my team back, I went to check on them. And I found out that they already left for the contest. Veins snapped. I stormed out of the pokemon center and glared at the direction of the location for the contest.

There were various tents set up surrounding wide platform in the middle of the open area. I strolled around, looking for them while keeping my furious aura hidden. I passed by several tents and lots of trainers prepping up their pokemon. Finally, I found what I was searching for.

Lapis was just finishing up Azura's headdress with consisted of a Silver veil with twin blooming white lilies on each of her cerulean locks. He turned around to do Momo's costume but instead jolted when he came face to face with me.

"How many times do I have ta say that I don't like people ditching me?" I said in a threatening manner.

Lapis gulped and tried to explain, "T-there was a registration cut-off so w-we had to hurry and sign up before it closes."

I was still angry. I growled but then Momo hopped onto my shoulder and persuaded me to calm down with a smile. I sighed, patted her head and handed the furball over to Lapis. Then I looked over at the other pokemon he was going to use for the contest. That was when I saw a Houndoom with a torn black and violet scarf around its neck, pacing back and forth, opposite of Rara who was lying at the corner, coating herself in a chilly cloud of frost. Was that Nyro? I thought Lapis had a Houndour. When did it evolve? During his travels in time?

Lapis approached me. I guess he caught me staring at Nyro. "He's raring to go, don't you think?"

I raised a brow and stared at him. "Just what were ya doing those four days ya were actually gone for?"

Lapis flinched and chuckled nervously. "Like I said, I can't tell you."

His stubbornness didn't look like was going to yield. I clenched my fists and held myself back. "But ya will tell me when we reach Cianwood City, right?"

Lapis didn't say a word and just nodded, leaving me filled with uneasiness. I wanted to continue the conversation but the contest was going to start, according to the announcement that was just given.

Just a little longer, I said to myself. Doing that, made me realize that I've done a lot of waiting. In the future, I don't know how long I still have to nor did I know when I can stop. I wished this whole thing would be over as soon as possible.

Suddenly, I felt another cold wave. For a moment, I envisioned the dark shadow in my dream. I wrapped my arms around me and shuddered. I felt like I was sinking in the ocean. The weather wasn't that chilly nor did I think the sea breeze had anything to do with it. Maybe, I was just feeling stressed out. I did finish a hectic gym battle after all.

"Sapph? Are you okay?" Lapis came over to me.

I looked up and met his gaze. He was filled with worry. The cold feeling was gone like it only happened for a second. I exhaled deeply and told myself that it was just nothing. "I'm okay."

Lapis continued to stare at me with concern. "Sit down for a bit. I'll go get something to drink."

I sat down unconsciously. "Ya don't have ta. I said I'm okay…"

Even though I told myself that it was nothing, I couldn't shrug it off. I kept wondering what it was. I stared at the ground and tried to find an explanation. Then I felt a hand brush through my forehead. At first it was warm but then there was this jolt-like reaction that made me back away.

I looked up again and saw Lapis. He withdrew his hand back to his side and turned away. "You don't seem to have a fever so I think it's just the mental strain from the battle earlier."

I felt a strange relief from hearing that. His words were reassuring. I guess hearing a second opinion really works. I breathed easy. He's right. It's just stress from the gym battle, I repeated over and over in my head until finally, I lost the uneasy feeling that I had.

Several minutes later, the contest had begun. Lapis had finished his work on Momo and his own pokemon. His turn was last so he took the time to accompany me to a seat and even buy me a lemonade drink.

The announcer was giving his opening remarks and introducing the set of judges. One was the Olivine gym leader Jasmine, herself. It surprised me, but then I learned that she was also a pokemon coordinator. The rest were unfamiliar to me, but I knew they had to be some expert like Wallace.

I positioned myself on the third row, facing the middle of the stage. Being there, reminded me of all the times Ruby took me to see him compete in his pokemon contests. During those times, he was quickly accepting his ability in pokemon battles but he never turned away from coordinating. In fact, he even incorporated his knowledge in coordinating to his battles and vice versa. I admired him for that.

When I was all set, Lapis needed to go but before he left, I wished him luck. Smiling brightly, he turned to me and muttered his thanks. I couldn't hear it over the chattering crowd around me but I could read his lips. I watched him disappear in the sea of people who were still finding seats.

I shifted my attention up front where the first contestant was showing off her team of water and ice pokemon; a Dewgong, a Marill, a Sneasel and a Cloyster. Both types were compatible so it was easy for the trainer to combine their attacks. The next participants were also like that, choosing four of their pokemon that had the most type-compatibility. I wondered about Lapis' situation. He had four completely different types; Normal, Fire, Psychic/Fairy and Ice. Does he know what he is doing?

I guess that I just had to see for myself when his turn finally came.

Lapis approached the stage wearing a dark hooded cloak that hid his face from sight. I didn't know where he got it nor was he carrying one the whole time. With a wave of his arm, a large Shadow Ball from behind him, launched upwards. Then it was struck by a wave of golden stars that were probably from Momo's Swift attack. The result was a dark and misty shade adorned by a myriad of glittering lights. I could hear the people awe at the sight. It almost looked like a starry night had descended on stage.

I returned my attention back to Lapis who was now on stage with Momo riding on Nyro's back. My Minccino had this star print on her eye that cascaded down her cheek into smaller stars. Her head and body was wrapped in a dark violet silk veil that matched the long torn scarf that Nyro was wearing.

Then the Houndoom poised up front and let out a deep howl that added to the atmosphere of the created evening scenery. Then Momo jumped off of Nyro's head and back flipped into the air while using Iron Tail to mimic the crescent moon.

At the peak of her jump, a spectrum colored beam shot into the air. The collision blinded the audience for a moment. When everyone opened their eyes, the nightly mist was filled with a miniature Aurora Borealis.

Lapis was actually pretty good, if I based on my experience watching Ruby competitions. The crowd applauded as did I, but the performance wasn't finished. On stage, Moro and Nyro had disappeared but a shiny Kirlia and Amaura had shown up in their place. Azura was wearing the headdress that I saw earlier while Rara had matching ribbons that criss-crossed around her neck and adorned her sails with bows.

Under Lapis' instructions, Rara conjured up an Icy Wind that filled the area with a mist of blue sparkles. Now the stage was fully set. It was a snowy night under the light of the Aurora Borealis and stream of blue and yellow stars.

Azura went center stage with her arms curved in front like she was preparing a ballet routine. I saw Ruby's own Kirlia, Ruru do it before so that was my guess. I was right. Azura opened her amber eyes that soon glowed blue like the raining ice crystals. It was a Psychic move. Then she spun and danced on stage, manipulating the stream of stars with her ability to follow her every movement.

I glanced at the people around me and at the judges. They were completely mesmerized. I returned my attention on stage where Azura was completing her final spin and the nightly atmosphere was fading away. After striking an elegant pose, her eyes returned to normal and Lapis approached her. He flew his cloak around her like a curtain and in a blink of an eye, they both vanished, leaving only a frost covered black fabric on stage.

The audience and judges applauded loudly. Many even stood up because of his performance. I underestimated him. Lapis was a good battler as well as a coordinator like Ruby. The thought jolted me. I was comparing him again. Up to now, I can't shake the feeling of doubt. Was it not clear that he isn't Ruby? But what real proof do I have that he isn't? His blue eyes? Was that even enough?

I was too caught up in my thoughts when they were announcing the runner-ups. I only came to my senses when they announced the grand winner which was none other than Lapis. I joined the crowd in a congratulatory clap but my head wasn't totally in him winning the prize.

Lapis got back to the stage with Azura at his side and Momo on his shoulder. He accepted the ribbon from Jasmine as well as the Shiny Stone, much to my Minccino's delight. The announcer once again presented him to the crowd. The cheers and applause sounded again. I wasn't as enthusiastic as the rest but I did clap my hands as I stared at him.

Suddenly our eyes met. He smiled at me but I didn't smile back. I kept gazing deep into his dark blue eyes, wondering more about who he is.

After the contest, I met up with Lapis and we headed to the pokemon center. It was already late in the afternoon so we had to reserve rooms for ourselves before nightfall. On the way, Lapis handed me back Rara's pokeball and the Shiny Stone for Momo.

Just as soon as he handed over the First Prize from the contest, Momo leaped off his shoulder and snatched the stone. On contact with the item, Momo was consumed by a brilliant white light. I sighed as I watched the little furball became even furrier. The light rapidly faded and a little white and gray pokemon stood on the ground. Momo didn't look that much different except for the rounded ears and the snow-white fur around her head, neck and tail.

"Cinccino!" Momo twirled around blissfully, flaunting her new fluffy features.

Some girls passed by and looked at her. They squealed and complimented on how cute they think she was. My newly evolved Cinccino winked at them as well as show off a few cute appeals. I didn't know what to do with her. Momo was completely starry-eyed and obsessed with herself. Maybe it was a bad idea to let her evolve.

Lapis interrupted and picked up the vain furball with his right arm. I recalled his injury and asked. He told me he was fine. He didn't show me his arm but he didn't look in pain. Maybe the injury wasn't that severe after all.

At the pokemon center, Lapis was reserving the rooms from Nurse Joy while I was calling home. The phone continued to ring. I was growing impatient especially when the view that I had at that moment was Momo brushing her white fur as a pink aura floated around her. Will she get over it already?!

Finally, Dad picked up.

"Sorry about that. It's been a mess in the lab lately." He scratched his head and chuckled with embarrassment.

Seeing him on the monitor made me realize how much I missed him. It wasn't nothing compared to my 80-day journey in Hoenn. I really felt the distance from him, being in a whole different region. "How've ya been?"

"Well, the usual," he replied. I felt he was holding back the empty news about Ruby. Should I tell him that I saw him? That I talked to him? But Ruby said that it was something between me and him, excluding Lapis, of course. After the short pause, he continued, "So what about you?"

"I got my fifth badge. And—"

"Cinccino!" Momo cut-in and showed off her evolved form to my dad.

Dad laughed. "Congratulations to both of you!"

I grunted and shoved my annoying Cinccino away from the view of the monitor. "Sorry bout' that. Momo hasn't settled down from evolving. Anyway, Dad…"

"Yes? Is there something wrong?"

I hesitated. Should I tell him? But before I could decide, I heard another voice in the background, a very familiar one. Then Ruby's father came into view on the screen. I rarely see him come to Dad's lab so it really confused me as to why he was there.

"I brought over Ruby's Swampert and Milotic like you asked," Norman said as he placed a couple of pokeballs on the table.

"Thanks. Sorry for the trouble…"

"Dad? Are Zuzu and Mimi okay?" I asked worriedly when I heard about Ruby's pokemon.

"Don't worry. I just had them come over so I can do a quick check-up. Ruby's other pokemon, the Gardevoir and Gallade are taking their trainer's disappearance pretty bad. It's part of their nature after all. But gradually, they're adjusting especially for the sake of their egg which up to now hasn't hatched yet," Dad explained.

I was down casted by the news. I thought about how Ruru and Zaffiro must be feeling. If only I could tell them that Ruby is okay though I'm not sure if okay is the right word for it.

"Is that Sapphire?" Norman came closer.

"That's right. She just got her fifth badge," Dad answered with a proud smile.

"Good job," Norman complimented with a plain look. "So where are you now?"

"I'm at the pokemon center in Olivine City," I answered.

Norman and Dad exchanged looks which made me a little curious as to why. Then Ruby's father turned his attention back to me. "Cianwood City is probably your next destination so do you have any means of getting there?"

It hit me. The city is a whole ocean away and I don't have a water pokemon and neither does Lapis. I scratched my head for my lack of thinking. "No, do ya have something in mind?"

Ruby's father chuckled. "There should be a Sailor's tavern nearby. Ask the people there for help. Just tell them that Norman sent you."

Does Ruby's father have friends here? He is from Johto so maybe he does. The conversation lasted another few minutes before I bid them goodbye. I didn't manage to tell them about Ruby nor did I think I could. Until I know more, I'll just have to keep it to myself.

"Did you have a nice chat?" Lapis asked as he met up with me at the lobby.

"Kind of… Ruby's pokemon are not doing well in his absence."

"I see…" Lapis said with a melancholic tone and looked away. "Was there anything else?"

"We don't have any water pokemon to get us ta Cianwood City so Norman said that I should ask help from a Sailor's tavern," I added. I was still unsure what the place is like or what kind of connection does Ruby's father have with the people there.

Lapis sighed deeply. "If there's no other option…"

Hmmm? He sounded like he didn't want to go there. But I wanted to reach Cianwood as soon as possible. "I guess we'll just see how it goes…"

A few hours later, we had dinner and got settled in our respective rooms. After a long bath, I looked out the window and gazed at Olivine City's night scenery. The ocean was breath-taking as well as the rotating beam from the lighthouse that stretch far into the distance darkness.

After inhaling the cool sea breeze, I went back to my bed. Momo was already curled up in the middle with her white fluffy features wrapped around her like a blanket. I laid down beside her and drifted to sleep as the wind from the open window continued to blow inside.

The sound of the ocean waves resonated. I felt like I was near the water. More like, I was underneath it. My eyes opened up to a vision of blue. I gazed up at the faded sunrays cascading from beyond the surface. I stretched out my hand but I was sinking farther into the deep. Darkness grew around me.

Suddenly, I felt a cold chill coming from behind me. My body unconsciously froze in fear. What was happening? I didn't dare to look down. I kept my eyes fixated on the dwindling light from above until everything was consumed by the shadows.

September 12

"Cincci!" Momo was jumping up and down, forcing me to get up.

I winced at the morning sun. The bright rays really hurt my eyes. I rolled over and shielded my face with an arm. "Momo, could ya close the window?"

I felt Momo jump off the bed and I heard the windows shut. I exhaled deeply and rubbed my eyes. I was not myself this morning. Usually, I would be more energetic than this. Maybe it was because of that strange dream.

Anyway, I can't let that get to me. Today, I'm finally heading to Cianwood City. I forced myself up and stretch my arms. Then I got ready to face the day. I went out of my room and ran into Lapis who was yawning and walking drowsily.

"C'mon already! We have ta get some transport to Cianwood," I reminded him.

"I know… I know…"

I darted towards the lobby and bought a couple of canned drinks from a vending machine, one coffee and the other my usual lemonade drink. Half an hour later, Lapis was down and we ate breakfast. After thanking Nurse Joy for her hospitality, I went out, dragging Lapis with me. We had a short pit stop for him use Xylo's aromatherapy on himself. The sunlight was not that bright, maybe because it was partly cloudy. I still haven't figured about that sickness thing.

We quickly located the place that Norman told me about. Many burly men were coming in and out. I stood in front of the door and caught a whiff of some very strong alcohol. Even the lingering smell of the Aromatherapy couldn't mask it. I had a sudden relapse of the event in the bar. I backed away but then I told myself that I had to reach Cianwood. Holding my breath, I entered the tavern.

With Lapis trailing behind, I made my way past some tables where a lot of men were wearing sailor uniforms and staring at me. I didn't know who to ask but I guessed that I should start with the people on the bar. I took a seat on one of the vacant stools and inquired from the guy managing it, "Excuse me? Can I ask where I can get a ride to Cianwood City?"

"You're wastin' time, little girl. If it's a private cruise your lookin' for better check the dock, but I hear the ferry to Cianwood will be tomorrow or the day after so come back then."

"Tomorrow? The day after that? I can't wait that long. I'm gettin' ta Cianwood as soon as I can and I wanna leave today," I argued impatiently, but all I got was several amused laughter coming from the sailors. None of them were taking me seriously.

"Cinccino!" Momo squeaked angrily on my shoulder.

That didn't help at all. I think it even worsened. The situation looked dim for me as well as the Sailors if they don't move their asses and give me a lift.

I was about to snap when Lapis intervened, "Why is the ferry delayed? Don't they usually have one running every day?"

"Look, lately the creature in the Whirl Islands has been actin' up so only the big boats can make it across. The smaller fishing ships are no match for that place," one of the Sailors explained.

I eased down upon hearing the actual reason. Was there no other way? I had to think of something. Suddenly, I felt a large hand touch my shoulder. I glanced back and saw a different sailor behind me.

"That'll be enough. The treacherous seas or this pub is no place for a girl like you."

Before he could push me away, I clenched his hand. "A girl like me? Whaddya take me for?" I glared at him and jerked his hand away.

"Sapph, that's enough." Lapis tried to calm me down, but I was seriously irritated at the point so I merely growled in his direction.

"And here I was takin' Norman suggestion about comin' here for help!" I yelled and was about to storm out when a sudden silence filled the room. Did I say something wrong just now?

"Hey, how'd you know that name?" A Sailor sitting on the end of the bar asked.

I looked around and saw everyone was staring at me with serious anticipation. Is Norman famous here? I asked myself.

Another Sailor came up to me and looked up to me from top to bottom. Lapis moved in between us and stood protectively in his way. "Got a problem?"

"The girl looks nothing like Norman but the boy does."

"Both of them got spunk, I'll give them that…"

"But they both have blue eyes. Nobody in Norman's family has blue eyes."

"His wife doesn't have blue eyes either."

I looked around. The silence was suddenly filling up with various chatter and gossip. Are they thinking that either Lapis or I are related to Norman? What should I tell them?

"Hey, are you Norman's kid?" A Sailor finally got the initiative to ask directly, but I didn't know if he was talking to me or Lapis.

"In some parallel universe, maybe." Lapis teased and then bluntly added, "Sorry to burst your bubble but she's not. She's the girlfriend of Norman's son."

More loud gossip as well as boisterous laughter erupted from the people around us.

"As usual, Norman gets the girl. Ha!"

"I didn't think that could be passed down."

They seemed to be really close to Ruby's father. Was I missing something?

"You see, Sapph, Norman grew up in Olivine City. It's his hometown," Lapis explained.

"Got that right, boy!" A Sailor cheered as he raised a mug of rum.

"We are men bonded by the sea."

"Brothers of Steel."

Mugs of beer were held in the air in a toast. I felt my request was completely forgotten. "So can anyone give us a ride ta Cianwood?"

The Sailors exchanged quick glances. Finally, one of them stood up with a grin. "I'll take ya!"

The volunteer Sailor was named Eddie. I heard he was close chums with Ruby's father. He kept going on and on about Norman and Ruby's mother Caroline. "Norman was a scrawny guy but looks aren't everything. He could easily best most of the guys at the pub."

We were headed to the docks where Eddie's boat was. I glanced back at Lapis who was walking far behind us. "Quit stalling and hurry up!"

Lapis walked faster but maintained a good distance from me and Eddie. What's his problem?

Finally, we reached a small rundown fishing boat. I recalled what the Sailors in the tavern said about the tough waters of the Whirl Islands. Was Eddie seriously going to take us to Cianwood in that? But who am I to be picky. As long as I get there, I don't care if I have to ride a row boat.

"Lanturn!" A yellow and blue fish pokemon poked its head out of the water and did a salute with its fin.

Eddie saluted back with a proud grin. The Lanturn was his partner. It will be swimming alongside the boat to guide the way. I shot a smile at it as thanks.

We got on and prepared to depart. Lapis was unusually quiet. I saw him on the far side with Azura, staring at the open sea in the distance. I approached him and asked, "What's wrong?"

"I sense a storm. Maybe we shouldn't go today," He answered with seriousness in his azure eyes.

I didn't think he was lying nor did I believe he could sense that a storm was coming. Maybe, he was just saying that so we couldn't reach Cianwood City. Yeah, maybe it was just that.

The boat started moving. It wasn't that fast nor was it slow either. It kept rocking around though. Momo immediately got sick. Her glittering pink aura was now replaced with a gloomy shade of green. Lapis was not feeling up good as well. He stayed at the shaded corner and watched the white waves splash the side of the boat.

As for me, I was feeling refreshed. I could feel a mild spritz of the seawater splash against my face. It was very cooling. But I couldn't help but wonder about Lapis. Azura was staying at his side but I was still uneasy.

"Ya seasick as well?" I questioned as came over and leaned towards the side of the boat.

"Not really… It's just that…"

Maybe it wasn't seasickness. Hmm… He just used Aromatherapy this morning so it couldn't be that sickness.

"Is your arm in pain?"

Lapis continued to avert his gaze from me. "My arm's fine now."

I grumbled. Well, that was fast. Or was he feigning it?

"We're comin' up towards Whirl Islands so better hang on to something!" Eddie announced. His Lanturn was leaping out of the water and signaling with that yellow orb on its dorsal fin.

I directed my attention up ahead. The waves were getting bigger and I could hear them roar. But what really got my attention was the dark swirling clouds looming over the islands. The winds began to blow harder as well. Maybe, Lapis was right about the storm. My heart was seriously thumping.

Then I remembered Momo. I turned to her and found the greenish looking furball sprawled on the floor. I rushed to her while trying to hold on to the side of the boat. The rocking motion worsened as the boat drew near the Whirl Islands. Waves continued to splash violently.

I lost my footing because of the slipperiness of the wet floor, but Lapis managed to hold on to me in time. I returned my grip to the side and held on more securely. I looked towards Momo and found her safely in Azura's arms. She had used Psychic to help her get my Cinccino.

"She's alright. We better get to the cabin," Lapis said as the splash and spritz started to turn into rain. I followed him as we inched closer to a safer place on the boat. My heart was still racing but in a different way.

He was really close, just standing behind me with his arms also holding the side of the boat. I raised my head and looked at him. My eyes met with his and a memory flashed through my head. The memory of that time under the surging storm caused by Groudon and Kyrogre, I told Ruby my feelings for him.

*crash*

The sea grew more violent and the boat was being dragged by the strong current. I could barely hear Eddie yelling from the sound of the rain. I held on more tightly as did Lapis, but the waters were too strong. A huge wave rose above the dark blue surface and crashed against the boat.

The force made me lose my grip and I couldn't feel Lapis behind me anymore. I heard him call out to me. I also heard Momo and Azura but everything just faded away in the darkness of the water.

End of Chapter 25

Well, that was a cliffhanger on both ends.
I bet a lot of you were saying, "Who's Jade?"

A hint: She's not Ruby's Daughter.

Anyway, I have to study for the biggest exam of my life so it might be a while before the next update. (It's on October)
I'll gradually write a few paragraphs every few days. Update will may be once a month or make it two at most.

Thanks for making it reach 75 reviews. I look forward for the reviews to reach even greater numbers. :D
When it reaches a certain number eventually, I'll put in Jade's story

Ruby & Sapphire's son is leading with 6 votes!

Followed by Ruby and a Different person with 3 votes each!

I like the polls. XD
It tells me that I make people confused.