Author's Note:
Here it is, the first capture for Drake's team and you might be wondering about the choice. I'll explain but from this point on the author's note will have spoilers for this chapter so if you want a surprise, you can start the chapter now. As for those of you wondering, one of my complaints with the BW anime was Ash's team. I didn't feel like he should've got the three starters and it added to an already bloated roaster. As such, I'm splitting them up but only one will be shown in this story, the others will wait until Ash & Serena visit Unova (which will be more based on B2W2). I'm also setting up a theme with the Pokémon Drake captures in this story, he will have a full roaster but I'm going to save on mentioning the theme until later. If you want to guess it, please do. I always look forward to seeing your thoughts and theories. While this chapter shows off the Battle Club from the anime, don't expect it to become common place. I wanted to use it to show the effect Plasma is having on common trainers and while the tournament arcs are the best bit of the black & white anime, they won't fit in well with this story, just giving battles for the sack of battles. Given the current situation with the site, I'll be putting the next scheduled update in the authors notes until further notice, so expect chapter four on 17.12.23. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin
Chapter three: The Abandond Pokémon
He lay on his stomach with his eyes peering through the crack of light to the outside. The soft scent of some sort of food caused his stomach to ache as the low rumble violated his wounds stretched across them. His tongue flopped around but the horrid dryness only added to his discomfort. His eyes followed the silhouettes of each human which passed by. They were a good few feet away, but he could still hear their chatter. Relaxing his body with slow breaths, his eyes grew heavy with the cold floor invading his body. The fuzzy world turned black as his mind played back to the previous day.
Tepig found himself on the battle with his heart racing against his chest. Eyes locked forward as he took in the quadruped opponent, the upper part of the body was pink with a yellow-patterned rim. She had a yellow floral tuft on the head with small antlers mostly hidden, and a similar yellow colouration on the insides of the ears. Black hooves ended each foot, and she had a small pink tail behind. A delicate, sweet scent was lowering his adrenaline.
"Ember!" His trainer's voice yelled.
With a deep breath, he shot out the spew of fireballs from his nose. Sending them flying over the field towards the opposing Deerling.
Jumping from her position, she avoided the initial one as it imploded on the floor. Leaving scorch marks as she pranced closer, leaping over his attack.
Landing to his side, he turned but before he could attack... her legs smashed into his side, sending him flying over the field.
Crashing down on his stomach, he bounced and found himself back bound. His trainer staring at him but upside down.
"Leech seed whilst he's down!" the opposing trainer's voice echoed.
Wiggling around to get back onto his feet, he caught the sight of brown seeds raining over him. Big vines burst out, constricting around his body.
"Flame charge and burn those roots off!" Shamus ordered.
Wrestling against the restraints, a sharp pain zapped him for a few seconds. Trapped on his side, he glanced up to see his trainer staring back.
His eyes watered as he repeated the order. He's been trying to learn that move since the day they left Nuvema but-
"Gwa!"
Another pair of feet smashed into his side, sending him straight to his trainers feet. Breathing out some flames from his nose they burnt a couple vines, but they quickly regrew, zapping his energy once more. The only thing more painful being the disappoint groan from the human above him.
"We said this was a two-aside, right?" he asked.
"Right-" Deerling's trainer replied.
"Then I'm sending in Heatmor!" He tossed a Pokéball forward. With a heavy thud, his only other team mate landed on field.
He stood tall with a beige face while the rest of his fur was red with yellow stripes, having an appearance of molten lava. Long, yellow, dangerous claws on both the hands and feet clicked together. On his lower body, back and underside were raised, beige-coloured bands which resembled pipes, leading to his tail which was dented upward and has a hole in it, with the appearance of a muffler. His side eye locked onto him, making Tepig feel tiny in comparison.
A flicker of fire spat out as his tongue. Whipping the leech seed and burning it off his body. Heatmor turned back to face the opposing Deerling.
As the battle restarted, he couldn't help but chew on his inner cheek. Shaking off the ashy-remains of the leech seed, he took a seat by his trainers feet and watched the two Pokémon engage in battle. His mind flashed back to the day he first met Shamus. He didn't really pay any mind to the other humans picking a starter but that battle with the skull Pokémon quickly set the tone of his trainer. He didn't know until after the Nurse finished his treatment.
Upon being returned, he learnt Shamus called home where Heatmor came from. Apparently, a family Pokémon, Shamus' parents were happy to send him over and he became the honorary team member. He quickly made it known how tough he was. Every wild Pokémon they encountered he either scared off or left beaten on the road. Even a flock leading Unfezant. With no end to the snide remarks about him needing to keep up to accompany the brutality.
All Shamus said was that they needed to prepare for trainer's like that boy. Occasionally, he'd tell the pure fire type to help with training but in reality, he'd just mess him about or beat him to a pulp. Of course, being the powerhouse he is, Shamus never really cared as long as he won his battles. While he gets the idea of using experienced fighters to help train others... Heatmor is nothing but a bully, not some sort of teacher or mentor. He's-
"Deerling is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "Daniela needs to reveal her second Pokémon."
A red light engulfed the fallen Deerling as she laid on her side. Heatmor letting out a menacing chuckle whilst walking back with a joyful smirk burning within his eyes. A second flash appeared behind him, and the second opponent materialised on the floor, giving him chance to take in the appearance.
Hopping back and forth was a yellow, bipedal Pokémon with round ears, red eyes, and a pink nose with a whisker on each side. Two red arms were up in a defensive stance, which resembled flared sleeves, and the paws on the end were yellow. Mienfoo's chest had a small red band, and on her pelt piles around her thighs resembled some sort of human tunic or robe. Her legs were red, and her yellow tail was also tipped in red.
She charged forward and jumped, hitting her knee into his gut. Climbing up to his head, she slapped him in the face, causing Heatmor to flinch.
Leaping over the head, she landed behind and spun around with a foot out. Tripping his foot over, he fell down onto his stomach.
Narrowing his eyes, he let out a low threatening growl. His fire tongue flicked out, whipping her, and knocking her back.
With a deep breath, a stream of flame shot out and erupted like a torrent of flames. Pushing himself up, he charged forward with claws extended.
Bursting through the flames, he trapped the fighting type close. Looking up, a spew of flames erupted out and consumed his entire body.
Feeling the intense heat from the display, he felt his eyes unable to tear away. While he wanted to hate the bully, he couldn't deny the power and skill his possess already. Even if they're both fire type, he is able to just feel the power difference from the eternal flame.
With a mighty roar, the torrent of flames exploded and Heatmor dropped the fighting type down. Leaving the charred opponent as he walked away.
"Mienfoo is unable to battle!" The ref declared. "Making Shamus the victor of this battle."
"Come on." His trainer instructed. "This isn't worth our time."
Standing up, he winced slightly, still feeling the effects off his previous battle. With a slow pace, he walked beside the others as they left the battle club facility. He had to take triple the amount of steps just to keep up with them. They barely made it out onto the street before bumping into Shamus' leg.
"What do you think you're doing?" he asked.
"Huh?" He tilted his head to the side, looking up to the boy in front of him.
"I said it wasn't worth our time... I meant you-" He clarified, turning to Heatmor. "My dad told me about specialist starter breeders, there's a Tepig ranch near Floccery town. We'll get another one from there. It's not uncommon for some to progress further and making them eligible for new trainers."
His eyes widened as tears stung them shaking his head, he jumped up to his feet. Letting out pleads for a second chance, he tried to jump up, but he barely made it up to his knees. A foot hit his gut and he curled up, rolling back onto the cold, hard ground. A numbing tingle spread over his body.
Taking his Pokéball off his belt, he tossed it down onto the floor. Raising a foot, he smashed it down on the floor, destroying the device, shattered to pieces.
Feeling a burning flame in the pit of his stomach, he jumped up. Wrapping his legs around his trainers leg. Pained cries escaping his lips.
"Get off me!" He grunted, kicking him off.
Heatmor rushed forward and swiped his claw around. Slashing his stomach open, he went flying back and hit the brick building. Slumping down onto the floor, he looked up with an oozing pain feasting over his stomach. With tears filling up his eyes, he watched the duo turn and walk away.
Lying on the floor, he felt eyes drop as his trainer and the other fire type walked away. Reaching out with his stubby leg, it was useless in stopping them.
"Hey look, a Tepig-" "Think it's wild?" "Why would a wild Tepig be here of all places?" "I'm gonna catch it!"
He couldn't be sure how much time passed until he heard those voices. Looking around, he noticed several humans around, but he couldn't be certain who the voices belonged too. Forcing himself up, he tried not to focus on the slicing pain across his stomach or lack of energy.
Turning on a heel, he took off as fast as his little legs could carry him... maybe Shamus would return with a change of heart but even if he didn't, he didn't just want another human. If the boy who picked him as a starter could just abandon him, so would those humans.
Skidding around the corner into a dark, damp alley. It felt like the whole world was staring at him as he skidded on the grim-covered floor.
Sliding into the metal bin, a large rattling followed before the metal disc fell down. Letting out a surprised gasp, some embers blew the lid over the alley.
Covered by a couple of large black bags with a strong odour leaking from the inside, he peaked behind him. A few humans, although he couldn't make out any of their details due to the sun silhouetting them out, looked down before heading off down the street. Letting out a low sigh, he struggled back to his feet.
Heading further into the alley, he noticed a large opening on the other side. With the main difference being no humans transversing along the sidewalk.
As he entered the new section, he took in the sight of some sort of construction yard with a couple of the human vehicles parked up, more trash cans and garbage bags littering the place and a wooden shed-like building in the far corner. He barely had time to take in his surrounds as the first drop off water fell on his head. Glancing up to the sky, as if his day couldn't get any worst, a black cloud of rain hung over top and the downpour just started.
Being a fire type is bad enough with the weather but being one whose injured and alone... he'd be a sitting ducklett if he let the weather take hold of him.
Running over to the shed-like building, he tried to jump up to the window, which was left open a crack, but couldn't even touch the ledge with his snout. As he sat on the floor, rain pelting down over his body and stinging his slashed stomach. He turned to the door. Jumping to his feet, he entered a strong run, trying to ignore the pain before crashing into the entrance. Bouncing off, he noticed there wasn't even a mark on his impact.
Shaking the rain water off, he stood and started examining the four walls of the build. Around the back he noticed a small hole which looked carved by a Patrat or other rodent. Sneezing out a small ember to widen the edges, the rain quickly stopped it from spreading. It was a tight squeeze, but he managed to get in.
Lying on the floor of the building, his eyes lingered up to the window. The rain pattering down all around him as the exhaustion finally took over.
Blinking. His vision returned to the current day. The rumble of his stomach echoed over his body. A roaring pain rattled every cell in his body.
Pushing himself up with a heavy breathing to compensate with the pain causing his face to stretch. Steadily taking each step, he glanced around to try and figure out where some food might be. Despite the human restraunts filling the air, he couldn't differentiate directions from here.
As he fought through the pain to move forward, he couldn't help but imagine his trainer right now... a fresh wave of tears stung his eyes as he tried shake them dry. A snotty wheeze through his nose as he looked through the moist orbs. Glancing down, he noticed the dried blood scaring over his stomach.
He walked along ahead of the group before turning back to see the group. His trainer walked off to the side as the aspiring dragon master tried to chat up a conversation. It's been like that for the week they've been traveling together for. Half the day they'd spend travelling, stop for lunch and use the afternoon for training. Speaking of which, his new sparring partner was trying to sneak up, using the thick grass as cover.
Picking up his bone, he swung it around and met the incoming dragon claw. With the superior upper strength, he knocked Axew back.
"You moved to quick," he explained, "the rustling gave you away. Remember you always have an effect on your environment."
"But Jolteon-"
"Jolteon is a lot quicker." He cut her off. "He'll strike before his opponent registrars the rustling. If you're gonna be sneaky, you either need to get faster or work keeping your cover. I will say your new move is coming along nicely, but you'll need more than just the one move if you want to win battles."
"What should I be doing then?" she asked.
"I think dig would be a good place to go next." He shrugged. "It would allow you to get close. Give some type coverage for steel types. You just need to be careful using it against another ground type. They're the hardest to hit with a dig... other than a flying type."
"Oh, a ground type like yourself?!" She rolled her eyes, turning to the side. "Convenient."
"Dig works by feeling the tremors of opponents on the surface. Ground types, particularly those who live underground, use those same tremors as sixth sense," he explained, "hence them being harder to dig up on. And even if I weren't ground type, you still couldn't beat me. The second Pokémon-"
"What makes you so sure Iris has a second Pokémon?" she asked.
"Other than you both being really bad liars?" he asked. "The fact Iris sneaks off every meal time to feed them... or that she keeps the Pokéball on her belt despite keeping the unused devices in her bag."
"If you're so certain then-"
"Why haven't me or Drake done something to confirm it, like follow her when heading off at meal time?" he cut her off. "Simple. Neither of us care that much to put in the effort. Well, Drake doesn't care, and I know that situations can be complicated. You'll introduce us when you're ready... all of you."
"Your happy that your trainer doesn't care?" she asked.
"I'm his carer... I care so he doesn't have to." He shrugged. "He helped me... got revenge for my mother's death and taught me to keep it stunting me."
"I-I'm sorry," she stuttered.
"We're opposites but that's why we work well together." He shook his head. "He's logical... methodical... As long as I follow his instructions, I know we'll make it out whatever situation we're in... and I'm his moral compass. Keep him on the right line and fighting the good fight."
"And he needs someone else to be a moral compass?" she asked. "Your trainer is starting to worry me."
"Like he said... he's a high functioning sociopath-" he replied, "but having a dick for a dad will do that to you."
As he turned back around, he noticed the town sat at the bottom of the hill. It was still the size of a city from places like Kanto or Johto, even with the title of town. From this height, he noticed the large centre field of grass, making up some sort of park area while most of the buildings seemed to be built for a suburb area, although it was difficult to make out many details.
"I welcome you both to Accumula town!" Iris' voice echoed from behind. Turning he found the two humans right behind. "It's mostly a retirement community with great views and nature life. You won't find any league gym here. And Plasma keep their attention to the cities in the central ring."
"We can stock up and spend the night at the centre," Drake replied, as they set off down to the town, "then set off first thing in the morning."
"Just because it's a retirement place, doesn't mean we should hurry to leave-" Iris replied, "we've been travelling for a week."
"I thought a wild child would prefer being on the road," he replied, "one with nature and all that."
"I told you I'm draconid and I don't like big cities, but we have a strong sense of community-" she replied, "this town reminds me of home."
"Home? Just... without the dragons-" he replied, "which really is the connection which makes a draconid, draconid."
"We could spend a couple days resting, at least-" she sighed.
"And waste even more time before reaching the first gym?" he asked. "Putting us even further behind schedule."
"Your schedule..." She rolled her eyes. "The one you put together on the back of your Rapidash?"
"She is still the quickest way to travel... at least that I have available to me," he replied, "your just mad that she doesn't trust you."
"Alright, what if I show you something-" she replied, "it might be worth spending a day or two here."
"I highly doubt that-"
"Have you ever heard of the Don George battle club?" she asked.
"Nope."
"Don George was a member of the Unovan elite four for several years but he retired just before Plasma started popping up-" she explained, "his league position went to his protege Marsal. Then when Plasma started liberating Pokémon, he created these buildings in most towns and cities in Unova. They're meant to be safe-havens for trainers during their city stops. Places to interact with other trainers, partake in battles, trades... even with training facilities."
"Sounds like we could get in some good exercise there-" Marowak chimed in. "I'd like to see it."
"Not you too-" his trainer grumbled.
"A little socialising will be good for you," he retorted. "And I could get to battle some actual challenging opponents."
"Hey!" Axew pipped up.
"No offense-" he turned back to her.
"Guess I'm out voted." His trainer grumbled. "We should stop by the centre first then head off to this... battle club."
Walking alongside his trainer, his senses were hit by the familiar grease-filled smell of sidewalk vendors. A sickly growl rumbled his stomach as he shook his head, the horrid taste of the poorly made food invading his mouth.
"Here." He turned to see Drake handing him a bottle of water. Giving a single nod to show gratitude, he squirted the liquid in to wash away the taste. Despite it causing him hunger, he knew that trying the street vendors would end badly for everyone involved.
It didn't take them long to reach the centre, and while the outside had the same red roof and symbol they were used to. The building itself looked far more advanced than most they've visited. Only the major cities like Goldenrod or Saffron would match it. Walking inside, it was far bigger than any centre in a simple town he was used to. Walking across the lobby floor, he couldn't help but feel like everyone stopped and was looking to him.
"Hello, welcome to the-" the Nurse stopped in her tracks. "I-It's an honour to meet you-"
"I'm sorry?" Drake asked.
"You're the hero from Nuvema?" she asked. "The one Reshiram met. I'm sorry, where are my manners. How can I help you today?"
"We need a room for the night-" he muttered.
"Just the one night?" she asked.
"At the moment-" Drake's eyes narrowed slightly. "Why?"
"I-it's just Plasma-" she stuttered. "There leader announced plans to visit our town. Not only to spread their message but to meet the hero from Nuvema."
A smirk spread up onto his lips as he heard this. He couldn't deny having more enjoyment from human settlements than his trainer, but he always had trouble getting him to stick around and enjoy the sights. This might just be the ticket he needs get the comfy bed for more than just one night.
"Th-they're due to arrive in a few days-" she stuttered slightly. "I thought-"
"I'm not affiliated with them in any way," he growled.
"We're not but we should meet them-" he opted his own opinion. "If we leave when they came all this way... we've heard they like to liberated trainer's Pokémon who can't defend themselves. I fear of what they'll do if we leave them high and mighty."
"We can discuss this later-" he uttered, turning to stare at him.
"Later will be too late," he replied, "we can spend some days in the town. Getting in good battles and training at the battle club Iris mentioned and then come face to face with the group your hell-bent on taking out."
"Your just against them as I am-" he retorted.
"What can I say, you're a bad influence on me-" He shrugged. "Or a good one... only time will tell."
"Fine-" his trainer sighed, turning back to the nurse. "We'll take the room until after the Plasma visit."
The nurse handed a key-card over, and he turned to walk away. Following his trainer, he couldn't help but notice how the Nurse Joy looked different from the one's he's use too despite the obvious similarities. Her hair seemed to be a slightly darker shade of magenta pink while she had a white bow tied around her waist instead of the overall apron. With the top pink shirt having a single white button over her left side.
Stepping outside, he looked around but couldn't find Iris anywhere to be seen. Glancing back into the building, he noticed her mareepishly sliding in to book her own room. He quirked his browl up as he wondered why she waited until they were done but shrugged and waited for her to return to them.
"Took your time?" Drake asked.
"Sorry but didn't you feel the tension in there?" she asked. "Every trainer knows your face and think your apart of Plasma."
"I am not!"
"Yeah, yeah, you've made that clear." She held her hands up. "But they don't know you and you we're chosen by Reshiram-"
"You still believe that?" he asked, mostly to himself. While he's not happy Drake hasn't set her straight, he can understand why. What is he meant to say, sorry but it wasn't your legendary fire dragon but the reborn phoenix who stopped us on the pier. It would only lead to more questions they don't have answers for.
"Of course, and I don't know why but-" She sighed. "Plasma's made it clear that they believe Reshiram believes in the truth of their fight."
"They have a strange concept of truth-" Drake muttered. "But anyway, you were showing us to the battle club?"
"Oh yeah, your gonna love it!" She beamed, charging off down the path.
Turning to glance up to his trainer, the two of them followed behind at a more leisurely pace. Glancing around, he couldn't help but notice more people stopping to stare at them. Feeling a cold chill on the back of his neck, he turned and reached his hand up. Gripping Drake's hand, he couldn't be sure if they were looking because he's not a common species in Unova or because of the notion they are somehow aligned with Plasma.
Drake studied the building as they approached; it didn't really stand out compared to others. However, he noticed the ground types attention down the alleyway to the side. Pinching his lips together, he briefly wondered what got his partners attention, but he couldn't dwell on it.
Stepping into the building, the first thing he felt was the cool aircon freezing the air. Looking around he noticed several battles taking place over the rows of fields with multiple Pokémon he's never noticed before. As he took in the sight, every trainer in turned to lock eyes with him. Chatter built up between them.
"You need to leave!" One boy stepped up to him. "Your kind aren't welcome here."
"Give me one good reason-" he hissed, looming over the smaller boy.
"N-no one from Plasma is welcome here," he replied.
"Good job I'm not a part of them then." He smirked, stepping past him.
"But we've all seen the news!" He jumped back in front of him. "Reshiram-"
"If that story about the dragon of truth was true then all it shows is Plasma isn't as truthful as they'd like you to believe," he replied, "and as for the news. They only report the truth when it matches their own delusions of reality. I'm not and never have been or ever will be a part of team Plasma."
"You expect us to just believe that?!" the kid asked.
"I expect you to come with something stronger than baseless accusations." He retorted. "Until then, you can shove-"
"Whoa, whoa, calm down everyone!" An elderly man with short black hair, with a hint of grey approached. Holding his hands up with a stoic expression. "We aren't gate keepers. If the kid says he's not a part of team Plasma, then I believe him until he gives me reason not to."
"Thanks-" he sneered. "And you are?"
"Names Don George." He introduced himself, the moustache covering his mouth making him difficult to read. "The proud owner of the battle club. I see you've got a Marowak. They aren't common in Unova."
"I'm willing to bet most of my team isn't common in this region," he replied, "Drake Ketchum from Pallet in Kanto."
"Ketchum?" his eyebrow shot up. "Any relation to Red?"
"I'm his son-" He bit down on his inner cheek. Muttering, "my greatest accomplishment."
"So, what're you looking for today?" he asked. "Wanna get some battles in or more training?"
"Training-" he replied. "I doubt there's anyone worth battling for us here right now."
"No need to be rude about it-" he criticised.
"I'm not, but I know the leagues streamlined the gym journey due to Plasma. Having a set route for each gym number," he explained, "which means most trainers here are new ones and all my Pokémon on hand I've had for at least a regional league. They wouldn't stand a chance."
"I set this up the battle club as a safe haven for trainers from Plasma," he replied, "but let me show you to the training rooms."
Following the elderly man through the battle-rooms, he couldn't help but take note of all the trainers looking at him. Focusing on the back of the older man's head. It didn't take them long to reach the large open hall which had fewer trainers in but a lot of equipment for different types of training.
"Battling tends to be the more popular use of the facilities," Don George explained.
"How can you expect to win battles without proper training and preparation?" he asked.
"I like you, Drake-" He smiled. "And sorry. I shouldn't have brought up your father like that. Guessing there's bad blood there."
"The world's strongest trainer, loved by the masses-" He sighed. "What reason could his own son have for not sharing the admiration?"
"A strong trainer doesn't make you a good father or even a good man-" he replied, "I'm sure you've got your reasons. I'm not one to judge. Feel free to use the equipment in this room to your hearts content. I'll be back later to see how you're getting on."
Watching the elderly man walk out of the room, he turned and took the five devices off his belt. Releasing his team, his studied each of them before looking at the equipment available. His eyes glanced up to the ceiling, clearly not enough room to fly around.
"Charizard take on the punching bags." He instructed. "We'll build up your physical strength before working on fighting type energy."
Receiving a nod, he turned and walked over to the sandbags hanging down. Clenching his clawed hands, he began delivering punch after punch.
"Victreebel and Ariados." He drew the duel poison types attention. "Use thread and vines on the climbing frame. Work on your moveability."
The two Pokémon nodded and scattered over to the wooden contraptions. Shooting out string and a vine respectively, they flung themselves into the air.
"Jolteon and Rapidash." He turned to the fast duo. "You can use the treadmill... try not to burn the place down, kay."
Both of the quadrupeds took up the large running machines. Easily entering the quickest speed, the two seemed to be racing each other.
"Maro?" his ground types voice drew his attention. "Marowak?"
"You wanted to get some battles in, go get your fill-" he gestured back to the battle rooms. "If it gets too much, you've got a dragon to train."
His ground type smirked, spinning the bone in his hand before strolling off into the battle rooms. Letting out a low sigh, he turned to the door leading out into the back yard. Casting a glance to the others, he shook his head. Marowak sensed something when they approached and his curiosity is intrigued... giving his team one last look, he knew he should bring one of his Pokémon with him but they're already busy.
Unable to resist his urge, he turned and walked over to the door. Turning the handle, he snuck out into the back yard. Standing in the grimy-location, he glanced around as he replied the approach to the battle club. Marowak spotted something but it was quick and small. If it had been bigger than even a Pokémon as fast as Rapidash would've been spotted. Closing his eyes, he went over the reasons a Pokémon would be back here.
Ideally, they'd need something like shelter and food. Whether abandoned or just born wild, they would've identified this location as the safest for them.
Opening his eyes, he glanced around before turning to the sky. The day maybe nice now but that's not always the case. He couldn't say for certain what was driving this urge to investigate the whims of his partner but something deep inside was driving him to find whoever Marowak saw.
He stood on one side of the field as the opposing trainer tossed a device into the air. "Herdier, you're up!"
In a flash of light, a light brown furred canine Pokémon with a short snout landed in front of him. His face had long, cream fur which formed a moustache and a three-pointed crest. Ears where were large and perked, and a black nose making up the face. Shaggy dark blue fur covered the back and stuck up with a short tail behind. Four short legs, with three-toed paws held the Pokémon up as a threatening growl escaped the trembling lips.
"Begin!"
Charging forward with his bone extended out to the side. His opponent took off with a quicker pace, meeting just over the half way mark.
Swinging his club to the side, it struck his face and sent him swirling sideways. Shaking his head, his fangs extended as ice covered them.
Bringing his bone up, it blocked the ice fang by sticking in his mouth. Using the momentary pause. He jumped and slammed his feet down on the floor.
Seismic waves trembled out from his feet. Causing the canine to wince. Pulling his bone free, he took off around the side of his opponent.
Using his bone as a crutch, he lept himself up onto brown furred opponent. Bringing his bone overhead, he slammed it down on his back but rebounced off, throwing him off onto the floor. A pair of blue-padded paws kicked him and sent him rolling over the floor, landing on his stomach.
"Back's protected... got it." He thought to himself, pushing up to see Herdier charging.
Letting out a low sigh, he rolled to the side and tossed his bone forward. Striking the canines legs, causing him to stumble.
Running forward, he jumped onto the back of the normal type. He barely had a second to seat himself and grab hold of the fur.
Holding on tight to prevent being thrown off. His eyes scanned the floor as he continued to ride his opponent.
Seeing his bone lying on the floor, he tightened his grip. Using his body to motion the opponent towards the item, he struggled to hold on.
Seeing it within reach, he let got and rolled off the front of his opponent. Summersaulting over the floor, he grabbed the club once more.
Swinging it around, it knocked the incoming ice fang once more. Using the opening, he charged knocked his opponent over.
Jumping up, he spun the bone overhead. Falling down onto the normal type, he disappeared in a red light.
Landed on one knee, he turned towards the human trainer whose voice faded during battle. His eyes asking the unanswered question.
"You would've won, it was easy to see-" he explained, "no need to deliver the finishing blow."
Standing up, he slumped the club over his shoulder and gave a nod of respect. Turning and walking away, he went exploring the other trainers but none of them seemed to have Pokémon worth fighting. He only took on that trainer because he overhead he was on a ten-battle win streak.
"Guess Drake was right-" he muttered to himself as he found Iris and Axew partaking in a battle with a Patrat. The most common species they saw on the journey between Nuvema and Accumula. Since none of the other humans seemed to pose a challenge, he turned back to the training rooms.
Stepping into the other room, he noticed his team mates busy with their previous instructions, but his trainer was no-where to be seen. Glancing around, his eyes landed on the door labelled exit which was open just a crack. Without hesitation, he took off and walked out through the door.
Just as expected, he found his trainer stood in the middle of the yard. Staring around at the surrounding environment.
"What'cha doing?" he asked, letting his presence be known.
"Finished already?" he asked. "I thought you liked getting your heart racing."
"You was right about the challenge not being up to standard-" he shrugged. "And I asked a question first."
"Just investigating what you saw on the way in-" he explained.
"I didn't see anything... it's what I felt-" he walked over to the shed. "Fear. I sensed someone very fearful... it reminded me of... the tower in Lavender."
His trainer walked up and grabbed the handle, turning it as the scatter of footsteps scurred over the floor. Stepping into the poorly lit building, he glanced around before closing his eyes. Taking a deep breath, he let his heart slow as the coldness embraced his body.
Opening his eyes, he turned to the darkest corner of the room. "Whoever it is... is over there."
"Stand down-" his trainer instructed.
Leaning against the door, he watched his human step forward. He barely made it half way before taking a seat on the dusted ground, staring to where he felt the presence of the creature. Narrowing his eyes, he watched and tried to make out the creature currently hiding from them.
"Hello there-" his human greeted. "My names Drake. This is Marowak. We just want to help. Can we talk?"
A sneeze of orange flames came out, briefly illuminating the corner. Although the split second wasn't enough to make out even a shilluette.
"Can I give it ago?" he asked, walking up to his trainer.
"Knock yourself out." He shrugged. Passing his bone over, he stepped closer to the corner.
"I know your lonely... Loneliness sounds like such an easy thing to fix, find a friend; reach out to someone who cares. If it was that easy, then no-one would ever be lonely again." He took a seat. "I'm gonna bet you're not here by choice. Maybe you had a trainer... or even a pack, a family. But they cast you aside, whether by choice or not. There are still nights it takes hold of me, you know. When I remember being a prisoner in my own home. All I can do in those long black hours is find an enclosed place to shake until the tears subside and I can focus on the dawn light, breathe, drink water. Loneliness isn't simply a lack of company, though that's part of it for sure. It's a black hole that grows more powerful with every second its allowed to fester. It threatens to swallow every part of you, bad and good, until all that's left is a shell of your former self, too numb to feel the pain anymore."
"H-how do you know I'm not there already?" a shaky male voice peaked out.
"If you had, then you wouldn't be hiding," he replied, "the loneliness wants to keep you isolated until its work is done. If you come out now, then it loses."
"Why should I trust you?" he asked.
"You shouldn't. Don't trust anyone," he replied, "but trust that if we leave then the loneliness will overcome you. If you don't want-"
His words died as the familiar looking pig-Pokémon from Juniper's lab walked out. Only this time, a nasty looking scar covered his stomach as his legs wobbled, struggling to keep himself up. The stomach also seemed much slimmer. He barely made it three steps before collapsing forward.
Without the need for words, his trainer scooted over and slid his back pack off. Unzipping the bag as he picked the Pokémon up, he took out the medical box and handed it over. Taking out a swab, he dipped it into the bottle of antibiotic ointment. Running it over his infected scar, he winced slightly even without the strength to open his eyes. Putting it away for Drake, his trainer took time to wrap a bandage around his body.
"We need to get him to Nurse Joy asap," Drake explained, to which he nodded.
Standing up, his grabbed the backpack and finished putting the stuff away as his trainer took off. Using the alleyway instead of the main building for speed, they'd return for the others later. Following behind, they ran through the streets before making it back to the centre. As he arrived inside, he found Drake stood off to the side as an Audino wheeled the stroller-bed with Tepig into the emergency room.
"Guess all we can do now is wait-" Drake sighed as he handed his backpack over. "I never would've thought it'll be a Tepig... like what Juniper gave-"
"Not like... I remember his scent-" he replied, "that's the exact one."
"You sure?" he asked to which he nodded.
Without a second thought, he turned and made his way back to the battle club. Feeling the anger in each step, he ran to keep up with his human.
Drake stormed into the building and quickly scanned the room. Unable to notice the boy he's after, he singled out the next best thing. Walking up, he found the former elite four member chatting with Iris, clearly giving her and Axew some advice.
"Don George!" He raised his voice to grab the elderly man's attention. "Where is Shamus?"
"What the-" he uttered. "Why don't we use our indoor voices."
"Shamus. Brown hair, stoned eyes, punch able face." He growled out each word. "Where is he?"
"The name and description sounds familiar." He mused. "But he left a couple days ago. What's going on anyway?"
"I found his Tepig out back. On death's door," he explained, "now if you excuse me-"
He turned and stormed over to the training room; an eerie silence bounced off the walls. While the trainers looking at him was nothing new, this time it was from fear. He could see it in their eyes and honestly, he felt the same fear. If Shamus was still here, he doesn't know what he would've done to the boy.
Stepping into the training hall, he let out a large whistle and his team walked over, ending their individual workouts. With a word, he plucked one device off his belt and recalled them until only Marowak remained. He turned to find Don and Iris behind him.
"I remember that boy, his Tepig had a less than perfect battle, but his Heatmor turned it around for him," Don George explained.
"Heatmor?" Iris asked. "They aren't known to inhabit the road between Nuvema and Accumula."
"Probably a family Pokémon sent to protect him," Drake muttered, "and if he's experienced enough then he felt Tepig was lacking."
"Drake... what would you have done if he was here?" the elderly man asked.
"Honestly?" he asked, to which the man nodded. "I don't know."
"If I maybe so bold, your taking Tepig's situation rather personally." Don George interjected. "And I know that you didn't have a close connection to the Tepig given everything that's happened... it's been just over an hour, so I'm guessing that the situation feels personal to you."
"You were asking about Red-" he locked eyes with the man. "He was hardly around growing up but when he was, he'd always favour my little brother."
"I thought you were twins-" Iris muttered.
"I'm still older by a couple minutes-" he hissed. "And I know what it's like to be tossed out and left to fend for yourself. The worst part is, I blamed my brother for it. I'm trying to get better but deep down, even if I know logically, he had as much control as I did... I still blame him for it."
"Admitting it is the first step in recovery." Don George smiled. "And I think Tepig will be in good hands. I'm glad."
"You mean Drake?" Iris asked.
"I'm not just going to take him-" He growled. "I tried that approach in my first journey. I-I'll offer but it'll be Tepig's choice."
"Most trainers wouldn't care enough to ask." The elderly man mused. "For a... what did call yourself earlier?"
"High functioning sociopath-" he uttered.
"For one of them, you sure do care about Tepig-" He offered a hand out. "Feel free to stop by any time, whether this facility or one of our others."
"We're in town for a few more days so you can expect to see us back-" he muttered, turning around, and walking out.
He couldn't even bring himself to care whether Iris stayed put or followed. The glance to the side showed his trusted ground type beside him. Walking into the centre, he made his way to the counter to find Nurse Joy. Enquiring towards Tepig, she was more than happy to show him to the room where he rested.
"His wound became infected, but it's mostly cleared out," she explained, "apply the antibiotics three times a day and within a week it should heal up."
"I'm not his trainer..." He turned to look through the glass window on the door. "His trainer abandoned him and had one of his other Pokémon leave him in that state. I just found him... actually, that was more Marowak than me. I was just along for the ride."
"You probably saved his life-" she replied, "if left for another day, the infection might've... it's too horrible to think about. Maybe Plasma has-"
"Don't finish that sentence-" He cut her off. "There are horrible people and trainers out there, but most are good. You can't punish everyone to ensure the guilty receive the justice they deserve. That isn't balancing the scales, it's just switched the rules. Like going from chess to monopoly in an instant."
"I didn't mean-" She shook her head. "But if you're not his trainer... Guess we'll keep him here then release him once the infection is clear."
"I'm going to offer..." He muttered. "Let him decide if he wants another trainer... I'll let you know what his choice is."
Giving a soft smile, she nodded and turned to walk away. Turning back to the room, he stepped inside and pulled a seat up to the bed. The fire pig lay gently on his side, his stomach raising and lowering in rhythm with his light breathing. Bandages covered his slashed body. Sliding his backpack off his back, he pulled out a bowl and can of fire type Pokémon food. Filling it up, he placed it on the bed before leaning back.
The gently rhythm of the room hit as his eyelids grew heavy. Despite his best efforts, he slipped into the world of dreams.
Blinking awake at the sound of eating. It took a second for his vision to return. The sight of the bandaged up Tepig hurriedly eating the bowl of food. A soft smile flickered across his lips as he sat up, waiting patiently for him to finish.
He couldn't be sure how much time passed until he came to a stop. Slowly looking up from the bowl, their eyes met.
"How are you feeling?" he asked.
"Te-Tepig-" he muttered, looking at his hooved feet.
"I'm going to guess what happened." He spoke. "You lost a battle, and your trainer blamed you for his own shortcomings. When you tried to get him to change his mind, he had his other Pokémon attack which is where your scar came from. And you tried to survive on your own, which is where I found you."
His eyes shimmered with tears as he tried to shake them away. A pained expression covered his face before he lept forward. Catching the fire type in his arms, he held him tight as he nuzzled into his chest. Quietly waiting for him to finish his emotional outburst.
"It won't be easy." He continued. "If you want a chance to prove him wrong. You're going to have a lot of work cut out for you."
"Pig?" He tilted his head to the side, looking up.
"If you want that chance, I can give it too you-" He offered as Marowak placed a device on the bed. "You won't be my starter, but you'll be the first Pokémon I catch in this region... guess that's sort of the same thing, in a way. But if you accept... it'll be hard work and there will be days you hate me. I promise."
"Maro Marowak-" his ground type took over. "Wak-Maro Marowak!"
"The choice is yours." He finished the sentiment. "I don't believe in kiddy gloves. But we're heading for the same league as Shamus. What better way for you to get the point across then knocking him out of the competition at his last hurdle? Just imagine the look on-"
His words died in his mouth as the fire type lept out of his arms and onto the bed. Crashing into the device, a red light consumed his body, and he was sucked inside. It didn't even shake before dinging as a successful capture. Smiling, he pulled out his Pokédex to check out his newest team member:
Tepig, The Fire Pig Pokémon. It can deftly dodge its foe's attacks while shooting fireballs from its nose. It roasts berries before it eats them. It loves to eat roasted berries, but sometimes it gets too excited and burns them to a crisp
Type: Fire
Ability: Blaze
Hidden Ability: Thick Fat (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Male
Nature: Lonely (Note: This nature could change when/if this Pokémon evolves)
Move(s): Tackle, Tail Whip, Ember, Odour Sleuth, Defence Curl
His Pokédex switched screens to a list of his current on hand team of: Charizard, Jolteon, Victreebel, Marowak, Rapidash, Ariados and now Tepig but his ground type was a simple shilluette. "Please select which Pokémon you wish to send back," the robotic voice instructed.
Glancing over the options, he hit Rapidash's image. Since they'd be put for the foreseeable future and traveling with Iris means he won't get to ride her, it's only fitting since he just got a new fire type. Of course, there's Charizard but he'll be the main mentor for starting. Feeling the device on his belt teleport away, he reached over and clipped the newly activated Pokéball instead.
Standing up, he turned to walk out of the room. His ground type right beside his feet. His hand clutched onto Tepig's Pokéball as thoughts for the training ran through his head. A smile stretched the two corners of his lips as the familiar rush of a new team member returned and filled every cell.
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