This chapter title is based on the song from Manafest.
To all of you who read, follow, favorite, and review this story, thank you all! Your interest in this story fuels my motivation. I hope you enjoy this chapter.
Travelling alongside Cynthia, the Champion of Sinnoh, was an experience unlike any other for Akari. It was more than just Cynthia's status as the region's strongest Trainer that left her confused on how to feel. A year prior, she would be awestruck at the power Cynthia possesses, yet Akari felt very familiar with this level of power. Witnessing Cynthia's powerful team – a Garchomp, Lucario, Milotic, and a team of others – engaged in light training was a sight to behold. The coordinated movements, the raw power unleashed with practised ease – it all evoked memories of Akari's own time in Hisui.
A secret lurked within Akari's heart, a truth she hadn't dared to voice out loud. Back in Hisui, within the confines of The Dream, she had emerged as a formidable force. Battling and defeating legendary foes such as Volo, Giratina and many more felt like a distant echo, an accomplishment that belonged solely to the dreamscape and not the harsh reality of the waking world. Yet, the memory fueled a spark of ambition within her. Could this dream be a glimpse of her true potential? Could she, one day, stand toe-to-toe with a Champion like Cynthia?
Fueled by this silent question, Akari found herself drawn towards Cynthia's training sessions. She'd stand on the sidelines, her gaze fixed on the Champion, occasionally gaining further insights. Cynthia, ever willing to exchange knowledge, listened intently as Akari explained the concept of Alpha Pokémon. While Cynthia didn't know about the concept, she did know how to raise a Gible, and hoped it would aid Akari in her ability to raise the young dragon.
Akari marvelled at the unlikely camaraderie she shared with Cynthia, a connection that transcended the vast gulf in their experience. Akari, still a fledgling trainer with only two badges under her belt, had a long road ahead before she could be considered an Ace. Cynthia, on the other hand, was the reigning champion of Sinnoh, a title earned through years of dedication and countless battles.
While whispers of powerful, reclusive trainers with formidable Pokémon existed, Cynthia stood as a beacon of official strength. She had ascended the ranks of the Elite, a prestigious group of trainers considered the pinnacle of the world's competitive scene. Her victory over Paul, a talented Ace Trainer with a powerhouse Pokémon like Torterra was a testament to her prowess. Paul, despite his undeniable skill, hadn't yet reached the level of an Elite Trainer, let alone the Champion.
There were other layers to this enigmatic woman. Akari couldn't help but notice a certain resemblance to Volo in Cynthia's determined gaze and her insatiable thirst for knowledge about legendary Pokémon. Yet, Cynthia's aura held a warmth and kindness that Volo sorely lacked, reminding Akari more of Cogita, the enigmatic scholar. Akari hopes that she hasn't fallen for a ploy like she did with Volo, but the best she can hope for in the worst case scenario is to get as strong as possible to defeat the Champion of Sinnoh.
Their journey towards Alamos Town proved fruitful for both Akari and her Pokémon. Magnemite, for instance, had mastered Protect, a crucial move that shielded it from incoming attacks. Kirlia, on the other hand, had aced Ally Switch, a tactical manoeuvre that allowed it to swap positions with a teammate in a pinch. Every step of the way, they honed their skills through friendly battles with Cynthia's team.
Akari noticed a fascinating development: her Pokémon were becoming increasingly attuned to the power Cynthia's team wielded. Whenever a powerful move like Garchomp's Dragon Rush or Lucario's Aura Sphere was unleashed, Akari's team would watch with rapt attention, seemingly trying to imprint the movements on their memory. Perhaps, through careful observation and practice, they might one day learn to utilise these techniques themselves.
However, their arrival in Alamos Town marked a turning point. The idyllic atmosphere was a stark contrast to the mysteries that awaited them. The time for leisurely practice would be short-lived. Their focus would need to shift entirely to unravelling the secrets that shrouded Alamos Town.
A sudden gust of wind, strong enough to send shivers down their spines, swept through the streets of Alamos Town. It wasn't a typical wind, though. It carried a strange pressure, a distant echo of a powerful impact. Before they could dwell on the oddity, they reached the entrance of the Space-Time Towers.
Just as they were about to step inside, a man emerged from the building. He fixed his glasses as he clutched a device that emitted a faint hum. A Drifblim, a balloon Pokémon with an antenna being held in their hands, floated beside him, tethered to the device by a cord.
As the man brushed past them, a mumbled comment drifted through the air, catching their attention. "The Space-Time anomaly is happening at the park... I hope Alice is okay."
Akari and Cynthia exchanged a quick glance. This was a stroke of unexpected luck. Akari, ever the quick thinker, seized the opportunity.
"Excuse me," she called out, approaching the man. "Did you just say 'Space-Time anomaly'?"
The man stopped in his tracks, startled. He turned towards them, and his eyes widened in surprise when he recognized Cynthia.
"Yes," he confirmed, extending a hand in greeting. "I'm Tonio, and I've been keeping a close eye on these Space-Time anomalies for a while now. They definitely seem to be happening more and more frequently. In fact, there's one unfolding right here, right now."
Akari grasped his hand firmly. "I'm Akari," she replied, "and you obviously recognise Cynthia." She gestured towards Cynthia, who offered a curt nod in greeting. "We actually came to Alamos Town because we received information about potential Space-Time disruptions. We decided to investigate, and it seems our timing couldn't be better."
Tonio's surprise was evident. "You know about the anomalies?" he echoed, his eyebrows raised. "Well, this is certainly a turn of events. If that's the case, perhaps you can lend a hand? I've been using this device" – he gestured towards the humming instrument in his hand – "to track these anomalies. Right now, it's pointing us right to the source of the current disruption."
Intrigued, Akari and Cynthia exchanged a look. Here was someone who seemed to be on the same page. With a silent agreement, they both nodded curtly.
"Lead the way, Tonio," Cynthia said, her voice firm and laced with a hint of urgency. "We're here to help in any way we can."
Wasting no time, Tonio set off at a brisk pace, the Drifblim bobbing cheerfully alongside him, its antenna buzzing with intensity.
••• ••• •••
As the trio trekked through the dense forest path leading to their destination, Tonio tripped over a hidden tangle of fallen branches since his focus was entirely on the device in his hands.
Akari reacted instantly. "Tonio, are you alright?" she gasped, rushing to his side and offering him a hand. As she helped him to his feet, a new sound pierced the air – a clear, commanding voice calling out an attack.
"Lickilicky! Use Hyper Beam!" the voice boomed.
Without hesitation, Cynthia sprang into action. A familiar red and white sphere appeared in her hand, and with a practised flick of her wrist, she sent it sailing through the air. "Spiritomb, block it!" she commanded.
A shadowy form materialised on the field as Cynthia's Poké Ball burst open. The Forbidden Pokémon, Spiritomb, materialised with a menacing growl, its wispy tendrils expanding dramatically in size. The blinding Hyper Beam connected squarely with Spiritomb, but the Ghost-type Pokémon held firm, absorbing the attack with an eerie hum.
Once the light subsided, the source of the attack became clear. A Lickilicky, its long tongue lolling out, stood poised for battle in front of a well-dressed man. Behind them stood a blonde woman with a Gallade at her side. Akari's heart skipped a beat – Ash, Dawn, and Brock stood beside the pair, their faces etched with surprise.
"Cynthia? Akari?" Ash, Dawn, and Brock exclaimed in unison as they wondered why they were in Alamos Town. The blonde woman, however, turned to the man beside Akari with a worried frown. "Tonio?"
As the two groups converged, Tonio, having regained his composure, noticed a sudden fluctuation on his device. The readings indicated a significant Space-Time distortion nearby.
"This is my friend, Tonio," the blonde woman explained to Ash, Dawn, and Brock. "He's a scientist." She then turned towards Akari and Cynthia. "I'm Alice. I recognize Cynthia, of course, but I haven't had the pleasure –"
"I'm Akari," Akari interjected, stepping forward. "These Space-Time distortions have brought us together. We're here to assist Tonio in figuring out what's causing them. His device led us right here."
As Akari offered her explanation, Tonio nodded vigorously in agreement. He then took a moment to hand the device to Alice before turning his attention to the scene before them. Twisted pillars, their bases warped by an unseen force, stood like grotesque sentinels in a clearing bathed in an unnatural light. The Space-Time Anomaly Tonio had been tracking had clearly left its mark.
As Tonio crouched beside the warped pillars, intently examining the anomaly's effect on their structure, a sudden burst of energy erupted from somewhere nearby. The unexpected surge sent a jolt through the group, putting them all on high alert.
Tonio scrambled to his feet, a sense of urgency etched on his face. He snatched his device back from Alice's grasp and scrutinised the data displayed on the screen. "These readings..." he muttered under his breath, his brow furrowed in deep concentration. "They're unlike anything I've encountered before."
Gallade reacted instinctively. With a swift movement, it pivoted towards the forest, its arm raised in a defensive posture, as if shielding its companions from an unseen threat.
Turning their attention towards the source of the commotion, they witnessed a shocking sight. A stone flower vase, previously nestled on a nearby pedestal, was cut in half by an invisible force. A dark, shadowy form then emerged from the foliage, its movements swift and menacing. As the figure stepped into the clearing, it solidified into a magnificent Darkrai, the Nightmare Pokémon.
A frown grew on Akari's lips at Darkrai's unexpected appearance. The others, with the exception of the man in formal attire, exchanged worried glances. The tension in the air thickened considerably. "Leave this place." Darkrai said once everyone focused on him.
"So, it was you behind all this, Darkrai," the man declared, his voice laced with certainty. "I, Baron Alberto, will not tolerate your ruination any longer! You will be defeated here and now!" With a flourish, he pointed a gloved finger towards the Legendary Pokémon. "Lickilicky, unleash a Hyper Beam!"
Lickilicky, responding to its trainer's command with unwavering loyalty, unleashed a powerful beam of concentrated energy. But Darkrai, a master of shadows, proved too elusive. The attack sailed harmlessly through the air as Darkrai dissolved back into the darkness with an effortless grace.
In a blink of an eye, Darkrai reappeared, this time positioned much closer to the group. It launched a shadowy orb, the attack moving with a chilling speed. Lickilicky, displaying impressive agility, dodged the projectile at the last moment. Unfortunately, Ash, caught unaware in the heat of the moment, wasn't so lucky. The dark sphere slammed into him, engulfing him entirely before dissipating. Ash crumpled to the ground, fast asleep.
Witnessing Ash's sudden slumber, Akari reacted instinctively. Reaching for her belt, she whirled towards Darkrai, her voice sharp with concern. "Darkrai! What is the meaning of this? You should have no connections to what is going on, so why are you here?"
Darkrai, its turquoise eyes locked onto Akari for a fleeting moment, offered no response. Instead, it vanished once more into the shadows, melting back into the dense foliage of the forest, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.
A stunned silence descended upon the group. Each person stood frozen, grappling with the implications of the recent events. The only sound that broke the eerie quiet was Pikachu's frantic cry as it nudged the unconscious Ash.
"We need to get him to the Pokémon Center right away," Brock declared, his voice heavy with worry. Taking charge, he scooped Ash into his arms and prepared to head back towards town. As the others began to follow Brock, Baron Alberto, a glint of determination hardening his features, made a decision. He abruptly peeled away from the group, his gaze fixed on the direction where Darkrai had disappeared. With a determined stride, he plunged back into the depths of the forest, seemingly hellbent on pursuing the elusive Legendary Pokémon.
••• ••• •••
As they made their way back towards the Pokémon Center, a booming voice caught Akari's ear. It emanated from a bustling marketplace overflowing with colourful stalls and lively vendors.
"Sweet dreams guaranteed!" the voice boomed, laced with a hint of showmanship. "These Lunar Wings, blessed by the moon itself, will ensure you never have another nightmare again!"
Intrigued, Akari turned towards the source of the voice. A man with a jovial grin and a flamboyant outfit stood behind a cluttered stall, peddling a curious assortment of odds and ends. Among the trinkets and dusty relics, her gaze settled upon a set of shimmering Lunar Wings. Unlike the mass-produced charms often sold by street vendors, these wings gave Akari a feeling of familiarity.
Drawn closer by an inexplicable allure, Akari approached the stall and examined the Lunar Wings with a practised eye. Her time spent in Hisui had honed her ability to discern genuine artefacts from mere imitations. A thrill of recognition shot through her – these were the real deal. Creselia, the Lunar Pokémon, had undoubtedly graced this man with these blessed feathers.
"Ah, a discerning customer!" the vendor exclaimed, his voice booming like a friendly foghorn. "Looking for a good night's sleep, young lady?"
Akari hesitated for a moment, then met the vendor's gaze with a determined glint of her own. "I'll take two," she declared. "My friend is suffering from a terrible nightmare, and perhaps these Lunar Wings can offer him some solace."
The vendor beamed as he handed her the wings, each nestled in a velvet pouch. With a hurried thank you, Akari rejoined the group and filled them in on her discovery. She explained the properties of the Lunar Wings and, with a hopeful smile, presented one to Dawn to hold onto for Ash.
Just then, Tonio, who had been unusually quiet throughout the ordeal, spoke up with a sudden burst of energy. "I need to analyse more data!" he exclaimed. Before anyone could react, he veered sharply off course, abandoning their path towards the Pokémon Center. His determined stride carried him towards the silhouette of the Space-Time Towers in the distance.
"There's a strong possibility this situation has occurred before," he muttered to himself, his brow furrowed in intense concentration. "That must be it! Maybe the answer lies within Godey's diary!"
Cynthia, ever quick on the uptake, assessed the situation. "How about Akari and I assist Tonio with his research?" she suggested, her voice calm and reassuring. "That way, Brock and Dawn can focus on getting Ash to the Pokémon Center and ensure he gets the rest he needs."
Their eyes met, and a silent understanding passed between them. With a chorus of nods, the group split up, each member determined to play their part in unravelling the mysteries unfolding before them.
As Akari and Cynthia caught up to Tonio at the base of the Space-Time Towers, he ushered them towards a discreet entrance leading to the building's hidden basement. It was here, amidst a labyrinth of humming machinery and ancient scrolls, that the technology responsible for detecting Space-Time anomalies resided. Countless bookshelves lined the walls, their aged bindings overflowing with preserved knowledge, including the diary of Godey – a potential key to unlocking the secrets of the past.
"I've been poring over Godey's diary," Tonio explained, his voice tired from hours of reading. "It not only details the operation of the Space-Time Towers, but also offers some fascinating insights into the current situation." He carefully extracted a worn leather-bound book on his desk and began flipping through the pages.
While Tonio delved into the diary, Akari and Cynthia wasted no time. Their eyes scanned the room, meticulously examining the bookshelves and searching for any additional clues tucked away amidst the historical records. The air hummed with a quiet tension as they worked, the weight of their mission pressing down on them.
Hours melted away as Tonio narrated excerpts from the diary. He recounted the tale of Alice's grandmother, Alicia, and her past connection to Godey. The diary revealed how Alicia had bravely saved Darkrai from a perilous situation, ultimately ensuring the Legendary Pokémon's continued existence. This act, however, had unintended consequences. Darkrai's presence, it seemed, plagued Godey with nightmares, visions of a future teetering on the brink of destruction.
Driven by these terrifying premonitions, Godey embarked on a monumental task – the construction of the Space-Time Towers. The diary alluded to a mysterious "Oración," hinting that it was the key to averting the impending catastrophe.
"Oración..." Tonio murmured, the word rolling off his tongue for the first time. He continued to decipher the faded text, brow furrowed in concentration. They continued until late into the night as they were exhausted from their research marathon, so the trio decided to call it a night.
The next morning, they reconvened in the cool, dimly lit basement of the Space-Time Towers. Tonio, his voice hoarse but his eyes bright with newfound knowledge, shared their discoveries. He held out a photograph, its edges slightly frayed with age, towards Alice.
"But that's not all," Tonio announced, his voice filled with a hint of excitement. "I found a picture of your grandmother, Alicia. Here, take a look."
Alice's eyes widened as she reached for the photo. A wave of emotions washed over her as she gazed at the faded image of her grandmother sitting on a bench beside Godey, a testament to their past connection. With trembling fingers, she turned the photo over, her brow furrowing in curiosity.
"A music sheet?" she wondered aloud, the question hanging in the air.
Before they could delve deeper into the implications of the music sheet, Pikachu made his presence known. He scurried across the floor, a tray precariously balanced atop his head and held by his hands. Just as the tray teetered on the edge of disaster, Ash snatched it before Pikachu could drop it, preventing a mess.
He carefully placed the tray back onto the device it had fallen from, a bewildered expression etched on his face. "What are these?" he inquired, gesturing towards the circular objects nestled within.
"Those are Music Discs," Alice replied, stepping forward to explain their function. "They're essential for playing the music that resonates throughout the towers."
Dawn, her eyes sparkling with excitement, snatched a disc from the tray. "Can we see how they work?" she asked, her voice filled with childlike wonder.
Tonio chuckled. "Certainly," he replied. "But the music player is located at the very top of the tower."
"No problem at all!" Alice chimed in, a confident smile gracing her lips. "We can take the Hot Air Balloon to get there." The prospect of an aerial adventure seemed to invigorate the group, and a renewed sense of purpose settled over them. They were determined to unravel the mysteries of the Space-Time Towers, and with each new discovery, they felt themselves inching closer to the truth.
••• ••• •••
After their exhilarating hot air balloon ride to the top of the Space-Time Towers, Alice took centre stage. With a flourish, she unveiled the magnificent music machine, its imposing gears and intricate mechanisms gleaming in the afternoon light.
Eager to showcase its function, Alice showed Dawn where to place the Music Disc into its designated slot. Anticipation hung heavy in the air as Alice then pushed down a large lever. A low hum resonated through the chamber as the machine whirred to life. With a surge of electricity coursing through its metallic veins, the turbines began to rotate, their rhythmic motion mesmerising to watch. Slowly, the music disc's melody filled the room, its notes carried aloft by the machine's amplifying power. The powerful symphony soon transcended the confines of the tower, washing over Alamos Town in a wave of harmonious sound.
"Such a marvel of engineering!" Tonio exclaimed, his voice filled with awe as he allowed the music to wash over him. "This truly is the world's largest musical instrument," he marvelled, his gaze sweeping across the intricate machinery.
With the demonstration complete, the group piled back into the hot air balloon, an easy atmosphere surrounded them as the music washed over them. As they split their groups once more, Tonio alongside Akari and Cynthia descended towards the Basement of the Space-Time Towers when a sudden cacophony of alarms shattered the peaceful silence.
"Another anomaly?" Cynthia questioned, her brow furrowing in concern. Wasting no time, they hurried towards the central console. As they arrived, the sight that greeted them confirmed their suspicions. Distortions flickered across the monitor, their intensity increasing with each passing second. The source of the anomaly was unmistakable – the very peak of the Space-Time Towers.
Relief washed over them as the distortions on the monitor began to subside, slowly fading away until a fragile calm settled once more. However, their respite seems short-lived. Emerging from the building, they were met with a scene that sent shivers down their spines.
Numerous Pokémon lay scattered around the Courtyard of the towers, fast asleep in unnatural slumber. Tonio, his face etched with worry, rushed towards Alice, with Akari and Cynthia close behind.
"What happened here?" he asked, looking for any signs of injury.
"After the latest anomaly," Alice explained, her voice trembling slightly, "Darkrai reappeared. It used its power to put many Pokémon to sleep, just like it did with Ash earlier. And then..." her voice trailed off, a worried glance flickering towards the direction where Darkrai had vanished. "Ash followed it after it ran away."
The weight of the situation pressed down on Cynthia. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, she stepped forward, her voice ringing with authority. "Everyone, listen up! Take the sleeping Pokémon to the Pokémon Center immediately!" she commanded.
Cynthia's presence, along with her status as the Champion of Sinnoh, had a calming effect on the crowd. The initial panic subsided, replaced by a sense of urgency. Heeding her command, people scurried around, carefully picking up the slumbering Pokémon and carrying them towards the Pokémon Center. The once bustling square fell eerily silent, save for the soft snores of the affected Pokémon and the hurried footsteps of those tending to them.
••• ••• •••
Once the Pokémon were settled into their designated resting places at the Pokémon Center, a new, unsettling phenomenon became apparent. Translucent phantoms of the sleeping Pokémon began to materialise. These spectral duplicates flitted through the air, their forms shimmering faintly. Unlike their corporeal counterparts, the phantoms possessed an uncanny ability to pass through solid objects like walls and ceilings with ease. They moved with a relentless purpose, never pausing in their otherworldly dance.
"Guys!" Ash's voice echoed through the hallway, shattering the tense silence. He burst into the room, skidding to a stop in front of the group, his face etched with confusion and concern. "We've got a major problem! Baron Alberto... he's turned into a Lickilicky!"
Ash's declaration was met with a chorus of bewildered expressions. Before anyone could voice their confusion, another voice boomed from the entrance.
"Indeed!" A booming voice confirmed ash's statement. A hulking Lickilicky, its long tongue lolling out in a parody of a smile, lumbered into the room. Adorning its thick hide was a familiar sash – Baron Alberto's personal emblem. The Lickilicky lumbered towards Tonio, its eyes pleading for a solution.
"Tonio, you have to help me!" the Lickilicky bellowed, its voice surprisingly articulate for a Pokémon. "Turn me back at once!"
Another voice chimed in from the doorway, adding to the mounting chaos. Akari turned to see Lickilicky getting carried by a group of figures bundled with camera equipment.
"And wake up Lickilicky over here too!" the voices strained, laced with a hint of exasperation. Akari spotted the camera crew struggling to manoeuvre Lickilicky into the room. The exhausted cameramen collapsed onto Lickilicky once they found a suitable spot to rest it, their equipment clattering around them.
Tonio, ever the researcher, sprang into action. He whipped out his device and scanned both Baron Alberto and the real Lickilicky, comparing their readings to the data he'd collected from the other sleeping Pokémon. A frown creased his brow as he analysed the results.
Finally, he lowered his device and addressed the room, his voice laced with concern. "It appears the real world is merging with the dream world," he declared. "The sleeping Pokémon are all experiencing a collective nightmare, a terrifying dream sequence where they're being chased by something unseen."
Baron Alberto, still struggling to come to terms with his predicament, sputtered in confusion. "What about me? Why am I Lickilicky?"
Tonio, his gaze flitting between the two Lickilicky, offered a tentative explanation. "Based on the readings," he said, "it seems Lickilicky must be dreaming of transforming into you."
This statement had Baron Alberto squawk in indignation, but Tonio moved on with his speech.
"The space around Alamos Town is being affected by a powerful force," Tonio continued, his voice tight with worry. "This force is creating a Space-Time Anomaly, which is causing all the strange occurrences we've been witnessing."
Baron Alberto, fuming and frustrated by his Lickilicky transformation, shook his fists in the air. "It has to be Darkrai!" he boomed. "Every time that wretched creature appears, chaos follows! Don't you see the connection?" He swivelled his head towards the slumbering Lickilicky, his voice laced with desperation. "Lickilicky, wake up at once! You must find Darkrai and defeat it!"
Just as Alberto finished his impassioned plea, the doors to the Pokémon Center burst open, revealing three frantic trainers. "Everyone, we're trapped!" one of them exclaimed, their voice panicked and concerned. "Something's blocking the town's exit! We can't leave!"
A wave of unease washed over the room. A shared look of concern passed between everyone present. Those willing to help followed the trainers out of the Pokémon Center and towards the bridge leading out of Alamos Town. As they approached, a thick fog blanketed the bridge, obscuring the path beyond.
A young woman with fiery red hair stepped forward, her determined gaze fixed on the swirling mist. Reaching into her belt, she retrieved a Poké Ball and released it with a shout. A majestic Honchkrow materialised, its wings outstretched. "Honchkrow, use Defog!" she commanded.
The Dark-type Pokémon unleashed a series of powerful gusts, each one swirling with the intent to dispel the fog. The wind lashed against the bridge, but the thick mist remained stubbornly unyielding.
Murmurs of worry rippled through the crowd as they watched the failed attempt as a tense silence descended upon them. Suddenly, Ash, ever impulsive, darted into the fog.
"I'll check it out!" he declared, his voice muffled by the thick mist. He disappeared into the swirling white, his figure quickly swallowed by the unknown. A moment later, Ash stumbled out of the fog on the same side of the bridge and facing the crowd he just departed from. He turned back to the fog, confused on how he got turned around.
Baron Alberto, still fuming in his Lickilicky form, waved his fists once more. "It's that Darkrai, I tell you!" he roared. "No doubt it's up to one of its fiendish tricks! This madness won't stop until we destroy that loathsome, evil demon! Pokémon Trainers," he bellowed, his voice echoing through the room, "lend me your ears, your strength, and your expertise! We must vanquish this wretched Darkrai! And now, follow me into the fray!"
A chorus of "Right!" erupted from the assembled trainers, their faces etched with determination. They surged towards the door, eager to follow Baron Alberto's lead.
"They need us too," Ash declared, his hand already reaching for his Poké Ball. Brock and Dawn nodded in agreement, ready to spring into action.
"Hold on a moment," Alice interjected, her voice a beacon of reason. "I don't believe Darkrai is behind any of this."
Ash's face contorted in confusion. "What?" he exclaimed. Dawn mirrored his bewilderment, swivelling her gaze towards Alice. "But... it has to be Darkrai, right?"
"Not necessarily," Akari countered, her voice breaking the tense silence. She had been quietly piecing together the puzzle in her mind, and while the complete picture remained elusive, one thing was certain. "Darkrai is the Nightmare Pokémon. Its domain lies in dreams, not the fabric of space itself. There must be another, unseen threat orchestrating this chaos."
Cynthia, understanding what Akari was going to say, quirked her brow. "But we already knew who could be responsible. Don't we, Akari?"
Akari straightened slightly, "I first encountered a connection to Alamos Town when I saw the Space-Time Towers exhibit at the Eterna Historical Museum." Her words drew a wave of curious glances. "The exhibit detailed how the architect, Godey, had a terrifying vision – a glimpse of a future where Alamos Town was ravaged by the distortions of time and space. To prevent this catastrophe, he built the Space-Time Towers and implemented something called 'Oración.' and it is the reason I decided to visit Alamos Town." She paused, letting the weight of her words sink in. "What's unfolding before us now mirrors Godey's vision. If I had to guess, the culprit behind this mess isn't Darkrai, but Palkia, the Spatial Pokémon. And with the space-time anomaly escalating, Dialga, the Temporal Pokémon, might be drawn into the fray as well."
"Palkia?!" Ash, Dawn, and Brock exclaimed in unison, their faces etched with surprise. Alice, meanwhile, reached into her pocket and retrieved the photograph of Godey and Alicia. Her gaze flickered between the photo and the group, a spark of realisation dawning in her eyes. "Oración?" she echoed, the word tumbling from her lips.
Akari, sensing Alice's connection to the situation, pivoted towards her, the photo of Godey clutched in her hand. "You know something about Oración?" she inquired, her voice filled with hope.
Alice nodded slowly. "Yes," she confirmed. "Oración is the name of a song my grandmother taught me to play on the leaf whistle." She held up the photo, flipping it over to reveal the inscription on the back – a simple sheet of music with a single, elegant leaf symbol adorning the bottom of the page.
At the same time, a look of comprehension washed over Tonio's face. He snatched his device, his fingers flying across the interface as he verified his suspicions. "Let's see if you're right, Akari," he muttered, his voice filled with haste. He tapped the screen with rapid precision, his brow furrowed in concentration.
After a series of adjustments, Tonio focused on the energy surge that had preceded Darkrai's appearance and the subsequent sleep-inducing wave. With a flourish, he manipulated the device's settings, enhancing the image captured during the anomaly's peak. A collective gasp rippled through the room as a faint outline materialised on the screen. The creature's elongated, white form and the distinctive pink pearls adorning its body left no room for doubt.
"It is Palkia, just as Akari suspected," Cynthia declared, her voice echoing in the tense silence that had descended upon the group.
"That's the Pokémon I saw in my nightmare!" Ash chimed in, a wave of recollection washing over him. "Darkrai... it was trying to warn me about Palkia!"
Cynthia's gaze hardened with resolve. "Then there's no time to waste," she declared, her eyes fixed on the image of the Space-Time Towers displayed on the device. "We need to return to the top of the towers immediately. The real threat awaits us there."
Fueled by a newfound sense of purpose, the group wasted no time. With a unified purpose, they sprinted towards the imposing figure of the Space-Time Towers. As they burst into the courtyard, a startling sight greeted them. High above, bathed in the ethereal moonlight, Darkrai hovered in the air, its eyes fixated on the very peak of the towers. With a cry that echoed through the Courtyard, Darkrai unleashed a pulsating wave of dark energy, its tendrils reaching towards the unseen entity above. "Leave this place!" Darkrai boomed, its voice resonating with a power that sent shivers down everyone's spines.
The attack struck true, connecting with a shimmering barrier that surrounded the apex of the towers. The impact sent ripples through the energy field, momentarily disrupting its hold. A deafening roar tore through the air as the barrier faltered, revealing a colossal creature suspended within – Palkia, the Spatial Pokémon.
With a titanic cry, Palkia released the barrier. The energy surge from Darkrai's attack, coupled with the Palkia's awakening had a dramatic effect. The thick fog that had shrouded Alamos Town dissipated in an instant, replaced by a breathtaking vista. An endless void stretched before them, swirling with chaotic energy – another dimension entirely. A collective gasp escaped their lips as Tonio's device whirred to life, displaying a real-time holographic projection of the scene. The device confirmed their worst fears: Alamos Town had been ripped from its rightful place and deposited in this unstable realm.
As they stared in stunned silence, a chorus of startled cries erupted from behind them. They whirled around to find the previously slumbering Pokémon are now awake and are running out of the Pokémon Center, their eyes blinking in confusion as they ran through the streets to find their trainers.
"That explains it!" Tonio exclaimed, a look of understanding sprouting on his face. "Palkia must have been responsible for transporting the entire town to this alternate dimension! And when Darkrai's nightmare manifested within this unstable space, its influence caused the Pokémon to become physically affected! After the fog disappeared, all the Pokémon woke up."
Their attention was then drawn back to the colossal figure dominating the scene. Palkia descended towards the ground, its movements heavy and sluggish. As it landed, the streetlamps beside it flickered and vanished, its corporeal form dissolving into particles of light. But amidst the chaos, Alice noticed a crucial detail – the elegant pink pearls adorning Palkia's shoulders were fractured, radiating a faint, pulsating light. "It looks like Palkia is injured," she murmured, a note of concern lacing her voice.
Before anyone could fully process Alice's observation, Darkrai unleashed another Dark Pulse. The attack streaked through the air, aimed squarely at Palkia. However, the Spatial Pokémon seemed completely unaffected, the dark energy washing harmlessly over its form. With a thunderous roar that echoed through the distorted dimension, Palkia propelled itself skyward, its massive wings churning the air as it charged towards Darkrai.
A fierce aerial duel erupted. Palkia, a whirlwind of white and pink, swiped at Darkrai with its powerful forelimbs. Darkrai, with its unmatched agility, danced through the attacks, its inky black form weaving a mesmerising pattern against the swirling backdrop of the alternate dimension. Realising its initial strategy wasn't working, Palkia shifted tactics. It focused its immense power, gathering energy into a swirling orb of pure aura. With a deafening crackle, it launched the Aura Sphere at Darkrai, a projectile of raw power hurtling through the air.
Sensing the imminent impact, Darkrai spun around, its eyes blazing with dark energy. It unleashed powerful electricity that met the Aura Sphere head-on. The two attacks collided in a blinding flash, the resulting explosion sending shockwaves rippling through the Courtyard. A momentary lull fell over the battlefield as both Pokémon paused, seemingly weighing their next moves.
Suddenly, the fragile peace was shattered. A shower of meteors, glowing with an otherworldly light, rained down from the sky. Palkia and Darkrai, caught off guard by the sudden onslaught, were forced to take evasive manoeuvres. As they looked towards the source of the attack, a new challenger emerged. Dialga, the Temporal Pokémon, materialised amidst the chaos, its imposing form radiating an aura of raw power. With a deafening roar, Dialga charged towards Palkia, its steel jaws clamped down on the Spatial Pokémon's neck in a vice grip. The sheer force of the attack sent both legendary Pokémon crashing down to the ground several blocks away.
The group watched in stunned silence as the sounds of a fierce struggle echoed in the distance. Though obscured by the buildings in their way, they could hear the clash legends, the roars of enraged Pokémon, and the tremors that shook the very ground beneath them. Moments stretched into what felt like an eternity before they finally saw a flash of white streak across the sky. Palkia, battered and bruised, was struggling to stay airborne. But before it could reach a safe distance, a blinding Hyper Beam lanced through the air, striking Palkia squarely in the back. The Spatial Pokémon let out a mournful cry as it was propelled towards the ground, crashing into the courtyard with a bone-jarring thud.
Dialga descended to the ground with a thunderous roar, the very air crackling with its immense power. Across from it, Palkia rose unsteadily to its feet, a guttural huff escaping its maw. A reverent silence fell over the group as they witnessed these two titans, legendary Pokémon locked in an epic struggle, standing before them.
Tonio's device suddenly chimed in, its holographic display flickering to life. Everyone instinctively turned their attention to him, eager for any insights he might glean from his technological marvel.
"Based on the readings," Tonio announced, his voice tight with urgency, "it appears Palkia and Dialga clashed within another dimension. The injured Palkia must have fled here, its act of transporting Alamos Town sealing it off within yet another dimension – a desperate attempt to escape Dialga's relentless pursuit."
Dialga wasted no time. With a deafening bellow, it unleashed another Hyper Beam, a beam of concentrated temporal energy that tore through the air towards Palkia. The Spatial Pokémon roared in defiance, its entire form shimmering as it channelled its power. A swirling orb of pure aura materialised above its head, pulsing with an intensity that rivalled Dialga's attack.
The two attacks collided in a blinding explosion that rocked the courtyard to its foundation. The ground trembled violently, sending debris flying through the air. Dust and smoke billowed outwards, momentarily obscuring the battlefield. As the dust settled, the colossal figures of Dialga and Palkia emerged, locked in an aerial duel. They danced across the sky, a mesmerising yet terrifying ballet of destruction. Hyper Beams lanced through the air, met with retaliatory Aura Spheres, each attack shaking the very fabric of this unstable dimension.
Just as one of Palkia's Aura Spheres threatened to slam into the group, a blur of darkness streaked across their vision. Darkrai, ever the enigmatic protector, materialised in front of them, its eyes blazing with determination. With a resounding thud, the Aura Sphere detonated against Darkrai, engulfing the Nightmare Pokémon in a swirling vortex of energy. A collective gasp escaped the group's lips, their gazes fixated on the dissipating smoke cloud, worry etched on their faces.
However, the respite was fleeting. Their attention was ripped away as a surge of power emanated from both Dialga and Palkia. Tonio's device reacted with a cacophony of alarms, its warning lights flashing ominously. Dialga reared back, its entire form shimmering with a concentrated blue energy that coalesced within its maw. Palkia mirrored the gesture, its arm outstretched, crackling with a vibrant pink aura.
A colossal crescent blade of pure energy erupted from Palkia's outstretched arm, slicing through the air like a harbinger of doom. Dialga, undeterred, unleashed a beam of concentrated temporal energy from its mouth, a beam that dwarfed its previous Hyper Beams. The two attacks collided in a blinding flash of light, the resulting shockwave tearing through the dimension with unimaginable force. The ground split open, buildings crumbled, and the very air crackled with raw power. The force of the impact sent everyone flying backwards, a wave of light washing over them as they struggled to their feet.
As the light faded, the group cautiously approached the centre of the courtyard. There, amidst the smoking debris, they found Darkrai stirring. Alice rushed to its side, cradling the wounded Pokémon in her arms. "Darkrai," she whispered urgently, "Oración… it's the key, isn't it? We need to find the music disc?"
Darkrai, its dark form faintly slowly rising, turned its eyes towards her and rasped a weak affirmative. It attempted to rise, its resolve unwavering despite its injuries, but a hand gently pressed it back down.
"I'll help you hold them off," Cynthia declared, stepping forward and retrieving a Poké Ball. Her voice resonated with a quiet authority.
Darkrai, however, shook its head, a gesture that surprised everyone. With a burst of energy, it propelled itself back into the air, soaring towards the battling deities. Its form, though weakened, held a fierce determination.
As they watched Darkrai ascend, a collective gasp escaped their lips. The shockwave from the previous attack had wreaked havoc on the already unstable dimension. Jagged holes gaped in the ground, revealing an endless void beneath. Several buildings had crumbled to dust, their remnants swallowed by the swirling darkness.
Tonio's eyes widened as he checked his device. The readings were off the charts. The dimensional rift had become significantly more unstable. If they didn't act quickly, Alamos Town and everyone in it would be lost, consumed by the ever-expanding void.
Without a moment's hesitation, Tonio grabbed Alice's hand and sprinted towards the Space-Time Towers. Ash and Dawn followed close behind, their faces etched with concern. Brock, ever the pragmatist, took a different route, racing towards the Pokémon Center to warn the other trainers of the impending disaster.
Meanwhile, Cynthia and Akari remained in the courtyard, their gazes fixed on the epic clash above. Darkrai, though small compared to the colossal figures of Dialga and Palkia, fought with a ferocity born of desperation. It darted between the two legendaries, unleashing bursts of dark energy in an attempt to disrupt their attacks.
Akari, her mind racing, felt an urgent need to contribute. With a determined nod to Cynthia, she began to make her way towards the Space-Time Towers, hoping to join the search for Oración. Before leaving entirely, however, she turned back to Cynthia, a single question hanging in the air. "You'll still help Darkrai, won't you?" she inquired, her voice laced with certainty.
Cynthia, her grip tightening around her Poké Ball, cast a resolute gaze at the battlefield. "He may deny my assistance," she declared, her voice unwavering, "but I refuse to honour that denial."
••• ••• •••
Pushing open the heavy doors of the Space-Time Tower, Akari was greeted by a sight that filled her with anticipation. In the centre of the room, Alice stood triumphantly, a sheet of music clutched in her hand. Recognition dawned on Akari's face – it was the sheet music for "Oración."
"There!" Alice exclaimed, her voice ringing with excitement. As she lowered the paper, her finger pointed towards a specific music disc nestled within the display of Music Discs. "That one! The music disc for Oración!"
Without a moment's hesitation, the group surged forward, converging on the display. Time was of the essence. Tonio stepped forward and expertly manipulated the mechanism that secured the disc. With a satisfying click, the case unlocked, allowing them to retrieve the Oración music disc. A collective sigh of relief rippled through the air. They had found Oración. Hope rekindled in their eyes as they turned towards the next challenge – reaching the Music Room at the very peak of the Space-Time Towers.
Their mission accomplished, they hurried back outside. Awaiting them, tethered to the ground, was the hot air balloon. Its vibrant colours stood out starkly against the distorted landscape, a beacon of hope in this chaotic dimension. This would be their transport to the top of the Space-Time Towers, where they hoped to enact their plan.
With newfound determination, they piled into the basket of the balloon. Alice's Chimchar roared a flamethrower, filling the air with a whoosh of hot air. As the balloon gently lifted off the ground, they cast another glance at the epic raging battle, a silent promise hanging heavy in the air – they would succeed.
••• ••• •••
While the others prepared the hot air balloon, Cynthia watched the unfolding chaos with a deep frown etched on her face. Despite her immense strength, she felt powerless to truly stop the situation from deteriorating further. Soaring high above on Garchomp's back, Cynthia had a panoramic view of the devastation. Alamos Town was being ripped apart at the seams, consumed by the ever-expanding void. Below, frantic trainers guided terrified civilians towards the emergency shelters.
A steely resolve hardened Cynthia's expression. As the Champion of Sinnoh, she wouldn't back down when her people needed her most. With newfound determination, she urged Garchomp to join Darkrai in the fray. Their goal – to disrupt the deities' attacks and, if possible, separate them. However, their efforts seemed to have minimal effect on the colossal Pokémon as they barely seemed to be hurt by their attacks.
Suddenly, Dialga reared back, energy crackling around its form. Cynthia recognized the telltale signs – a Draco Meteor attack was imminent. A surge of adrenaline coursed through her veins. If Palkia dodged to avoid the meteor shower, the hot air balloon, now their only hope, would be directly in the line of fire.
"Draco Meteor!" Cynthia cried out. While she knew Garchomp's power paled in comparison to a legend like Dialga, she hoped to at least deflect some of the incoming meteors. With a mighty roar, Garchomp unleashed a devastating Draco Meteor of her own, meeting the celestial onslaught head-on. Darkrai, ever vigilant, moved between a stray meteor and the hot air balloon, taking the brunt of the impact with a pained cry.
Despite their valiant efforts, Cynthia's heart sank as one of the meteors clipped the side of the balloon basket. A sickening crack echoed through the air as two figures tumbled from the basket. Cynthia watched in horror as one was miraculously caught by someone from inside the basket, the other plummeting towards the unforgiving void below. Garchomp, with a deafening screech, dove downwards, its powerful wings churning the air as it desperately tried to catch the falling figure. As Cynthia urged Garchomp closer, the figure plummeting towards the void came into sharper focus. A strangled cry escaped her lips.
"Akari!"
••• ••• •••
This wasn't how Akari envisioned the day unfolding. One moment she was focused on getting to the top of the Space-Time Towers, the next Dialga's Draco Meteor clipped into the hot air balloon and tore open the basket that carried them with a violent shudder. She and Dawn lost their footing, tumbling precariously over the edge. While Tonio instinctively lunged to help Alice and Ash managed to grab Dawn before she could follow Akari, there was no one to catch Akari's fall.
With a helpless gasp, she flailed her arms, reaching desperately for anything that might slow her descent. Looking down, she saw only the endless void yawning beneath her, its darkness swirling with an unsettling energy. A wry smile, tinged with bittersweet acceptance, played on her lips as she realised the futility of her struggle.
Just then, a blinding flash illuminated the chaotic scene. One of her Poké Balls had sprung open. Magikarp materialised beside her, his flopping in mid-air doing little to inspire confidence. Akari could only stare in disbelief, a torrent of exasperation bubbling within her.
"Stupid, stupid, stupid! Why didn't you stay in your ball!?" she shrieked as they hurtled closer to the churning void. Magikarp, oblivious to her plight, let out a series of blurbs, his voice deepening with each utterance. A sudden surge of energy pulsed around the red fish, followed by a binding silver light.
Akari watched, wide-eyed, as Magikarp rapidly grew in size. He writhed and twisted in mid-air, his form expanding with incredible speed. With a yelp of surprise, Akari scrambled to hold on as Magikarp morphed into an imposing Gyarados. The once red fish was now a colossal blue serpent, his powerful fins slicing through the air.
Letting out a mighty roar, Gyarados arched his head skyward. With a herculean effort, his muscles straining against the pull of gravity, he began to slow their descent. Akari clung on for dear life, feeling every surge of power coursing through Gyarados' newly formed body. Slowly, but surely, they started to ascend, clawing their way back towards the safety of the air.
Once they reached a safe altitude, Gyarados hovered in the air, panting heavily, his newfound ability to fly clearly taxing his energy reserves. Cynthia, a look of immense relief washing over her face, swooped in on Garchomp's back.
"Akari! Thank goodness you're alright. I wasn't sure what to expect," Cynthia admitted, her voice heavy with relief. "But clearly, a miracle intervened. You probably couldn't see from your fall, but Ash and Dawn are inside the Space-Time Tower, making their way up to the top. The hot air balloon is mostly intact but isn't stable for flight - Alice and Tonio have retreated." Cynthia gestured towards the hot air balloon, which was indeed losing altitude but appeared to be steering towards the designated safe zone where the other trainers were gathered.
"In that case," Akari declared, adjusting her position on Gyarados' back. With a determined glint in her eye, she retrieved all her Poké Balls and flung them skyward in a single, practised motion. Each capsule burst open with a flash of light, releasing a wave of Pokémon.
Roselia, the graceful flower Pokémon, landed gracefully on Gyarados' crown, a single rose held high. Kirlia and Monferno found purchase on Gyarados' neck, their gazes fixed on the battle unfolding before them. Gible, mirrored Akari's hold, clinging tightly to a fin. Magnemite hovered beside her, its single eye gazed at Gyarados before switching to watching the legendary Pokémon locked in combat. The rest of her team followed suit, their eyes locking onto the battle between Dialga and Palkia.
Cynthia offered Akari a nod before urging Garchomp closer to the legendary duo. Akari, in turn, directed Gyarados to ascend, her primary concern being Ash and Dawn's progress. A quick glance revealed them steadily making their way up the winding staircase within the tower. However, the familiar roar that echoed through the dimension from Dialga quickly stole her attention – another Draco Meteor attack was imminent.
"Everyone, Attack - Strong Style!" Akari commanded, her voice ringing out with authority. Roselia, his arm glowing with a sinister purple light, launched a glob of potent Sludge Bomb. Monferno, drawing in a deep breath, unleashed a torrent of flames that felt even more intense than usual. Gible, not wanting to be outdone, followed suit with a distinct blue Dragon Breath. Kirlia focused her psychic energy, firing a powerful Psybeam towards the incoming meteors. Magnemite, its single eye glowing brightly, unleashed a concentrated blast of electricity in the form of a Shock Wave. Finally, Gyarados, his serpentine body coiling with power, reared back and then unleashed a massive Hydro Pump, a torrent of water erupting from his maw.
The combined attack from Akari's team, Darkrai, and Cynthia proved effective. A dazzling display of light erupted as their attacks collided with the Draco Meteors, effectively destroying them before they reached the Space-Time Towers. Akari glanced back, her gaze meeting Ash and Dawn's wide-eyed stares from a nearby window. "Less sightseeing, more climbing!" she called out, her voice pushing them forward. Ash and Dawn, jolted out of their momentary stupor, scrambled up the staircase with renewed vigour.
Suddenly, a sound unlike any other ripped through the air. It wasn't just wind, but the very fabric of space itself being torn asunder. Dialga had dodged an attack, and the resulting Spacial Rend, a pink crescent blade of pure energy, was hurtling straight towards them. Akari knew Gyarados, with his newfound flying ability still unfamiliar, wouldn't be able to dodge in time. Her only hope rested in her other Pokémon.
"Magnemite! Protect – Strong Style!" she barked, her voice ringing with desperate authority. Magnemite, sensing the impending danger, bolted forward, positioning itself directly in front of Gyarados. It channelled every ounce of its energy, forming a shimmering barrier around itself.
The Spatial Rend slammed into the barrier with a deafening crash. The air crackled with raw power as the two forces met in a tense stalemate. For a heart-stopping moment, it seemed the barrier would hold. But slowly, cracks began to spider web across its surface, a testament to the immense power it was withstanding. Despite Magnemite's valiant effort, pouring all its energy into the defence, the cracks grew wider and more numerous.
Akari, amidst the chaos, noticed a flicker of hope. The Spatial Rend, though still formidable, had shrunk considerably in size. Perhaps, just perhaps, Magnemite could hold on a little longer. But that hope was cruelly shattered as the barrier finally gave way with a blinding flash. The Spacial Rend, its power somewhat diminished, continued its trajectory, slashing into Magnemite with a sickening tear.
The magnet Pokémon was thrown backward by the force of the attack, its metallic body screeching in protest. Monferno reacted instantly. She leaped forward, catching Magnemite as it flew by, and then nimbly climbed Gyarados' body to reach Akari.
Akari gently took Magnemite from Monferno, her heart sinking as she examined the damage. Cracks etched across its body that vanished into motes of light, a testament to its Sturdy ability absorbing the brunt of the attack. Although it had saved them from a potentially catastrophic blow, Magnemite was unconscious. But what worried Akari even more was the deep gash that ran across its body, right below its eye – a new scar that marred its previously smooth surface.
Without hesitation, Akari called out, "Kirlia! Heal Beam!" Kirlia, who had followed Monferno with concern etched on her face, immediately responded. She extended her arms, channelling her psychic energy into a soft, pulsating beam of light that bathed Magnemite. Despite Kirlia's best efforts, Magnemite remained unconscious, the scar looking less raw, but still a clear indication of the brutal attack.
Knowing there was little else she could do for the moment, Akari recalled Magnemite with a heavy heart. The battle raged on, and she needed all of her Pokémon at their best.
"Thank you, Magnemite," Akari murmured as she returned the Great Ball to her belt. Her gaze snapped back to the clashing deities. Both Dialga and Palkia were charging their signature attacks – a familiar blue beam of temporal energy for Dialga and a shimmering pink crescent for Palkia. Just as they were about to unleash their attacks, Darkrai, with a burst of dark energy, propelled himself into the centre of the fray. He took the full brunt of both attacks, his body shuddering under the immense power. For a fleeting moment, he held his ground, his form a stark silhouette against the clashing energies.
Then, with a deafening roar, Darkrai unleashed a Dark Void. The attack erupted from him in a swirling vortex of darkness, engulfing both Dialga and Palkia. Akari and Cynthia, caught in the periphery of the expanding darkness, were forced to retreat, shielding their eyes from the swirling shadows.
An eerie silence descended upon the battlefield. The Dark Void, a pulsating sphere of inky blackness, hung suspended in the air before the Space-Time Towers. It offered a brief respite, a stolen moment of peace amidst the chaos. But this reprieve was short-lived. Within mere moments, the Dark Void began to shrink, its tendrils of darkness receding as Dialga and Palkia struggled against its hold. With a final tremor, the Dark Void dissipated entirely, leaving Darkrai floating limply in the air, his energy clearly drained.
Both deities, enraged by Darkrai's intervention, roared in unison and immediately began charging their signature attacks once more. Determined to eliminate the persistent interloper, they unleashed their attacks – a shimmering pink crescent from Palkia and a blue beam from Dialga. Akari then noticed in horror that Kirlia, with a determined cry, leaped off Gyarados' back and propelled herself towards Darkrai.
"Kirlia, no!" Akari screamed. While Kirlia's jump wouldn't take it far, it was enough for her intended manoeuvre as getting as close to Darkrai as possible was crucial for success.
As the two devastating attacks hurtled towards Darkrai, Kirlia unleashed a powerful pulse of psychic energy, connecting with Darkrai. With a flash of white light, the two Pokémon swapped places thanks to Ally Switch. Darkrai, now drained and vulnerable, materialised in front of Akari, while Kirlia found herself suspended mid-air, her psychic energy allowing her to defy gravity momentarily. With outstretched arms, Kirlia braced herself for the devastating attacks hurtling towards her.
The air crackled with raw power as the attacks collided with Kirlia's hands. A blinding flash of light erupted, momentarily obscuring the battlefield. However, unlike Darkrai, Kirlia remained unharmed. The dragon-type energy from the attacks seemed to dissipate harmlessly around her, accompanied by a high-pitched chime.
As the light faded, Kirlia remained suspended in mid-air, completely unharmed by the combined assault of the legendary Pokémon. The sheer defiance of her power against such overwhelming attacks left both Dialga and Palkia momentarily stunned. This unexpected turn of events gave Akari the opportunity to act. With a quick command, Gyarados surged forward, his powerful tail propelling him closer to Kirlia. Akari reached out, gently scooping the valiant Pokémon into her arms before settling her beside the resting Darkrai.
Cynthia, hovering alongside Akari on Garchomp's back, cast a wary glance towards the two deities. "We shouldn't be caught in the crossfire," she said, her voice laced with concern. It was clear she wanted Akari out of harm's way.
However, Akari had a different plan in mind. With a determined glint in her eye, she reached down and adjusted her Arc Belt. A surge of energy crackled through the device as her clothes underwent a remarkable transformation. Gone was her usual attire, replaced by a striking outfit she hadn't donned since her time in Hisui.
A white shirt, its shoulders bare and adorned with gold trim replaced her previous top. The familiar Arc Belt morphed into a satchel belt, its design reminiscent of her Hisui counterpart. Two golden protrusions extended from the back, curving down her hips before ending as stylized stars on the front of her thighs. Her trusted Proto Ball hung prominently on the white shirt. Green pants completed the ensemble, secured by tall white sandals that stretched to her knees. This was the Sinnoh Outfit, the same kind used by Volo.
Standing tall atop Gyarados' head, Akari addressed the two deities in a voice that rang with unexpected authority. "What is the meaning of this?!" she boomed, her voice echoing through the distorted dimension. "Aren't you supposed to be working together, maintaining the balance of time and space? Have you forgotten your duty? Do you truly wish to anger Arceus with your reckless actions?"
Dialga and Palkia remained locked in a tense standoff, her words hanging heavy in the air. It was the first time their battle had paused since they arrived in Alamos Town. But the moment she uttered the name "Arceus," both deities reacted with a furious roar, their postures readying them to attack once more.
Just as the situation threatened to escalate further, a clear, melodic chime resonated from the Music Room within the Space-Time Towers. Relief flooded Cynthia's face as she looked up at the tower. "They did it!" she exclaimed.
The sound seemed to act as a catalyst. Dialga and Palkia, mirroring each other, halted their attacks. As the chime continued to play, the Space-Time Towers themselves began to undergo a breathtaking transformation. Parts of the tower unseen before protruded outwards, bathed in a soft, ethereal glow. This glow intensified, engulfing the entire tower until finally, with a majestic burst of light, two colossal wings made of pure light materialised that reached all of Alamos Town and beyond.
These wings, shimmering with celestial energy, gently descended, their luminescence bathing Alamos Town in its restorative light. The wounds inflicted upon the town seemed to rewind in time, the destruction visibly reversing itself as if it had never occurred. This restorative energy also affected Dialga and Palkia. The rage that had clouded their judgement dissipated, replaced by a sense of serenity. Even the damage Palkia had sustained seemed to mend itself, the Pearls embedded in its shoulders glowing with renewed health.
Darkrai, revitalised by the change in atmosphere, surged to his feet on Gyarados' back. Gasping for breath, he attempted to push himself upright. Akari, sensing his intent, instinctively reached out to steady him.
"I must," Darkrai rasped, his voice strained but resolute. "Finish this."
With a newfound surge of energy, he propelled himself towards Dialga. Hovering in front of the legendary Pokémon, he channelled his remaining power, conjuring a swirling vortex of darkness – the Dark Void. Slowly, the orb pulsed towards Dialga, eventually coming to a stop in front of it.
"Send. It. Back." Darkrai commanded, his voice weak and ragged between laboured breaths. He appeared on the verge of fainting from exhaustion.
Dialga, its fiery red eyes locked on the orb, let out a deep, rumbling roar. In response, a shimmering blue portal materialised beside the Dark Void. As if drawn by an unseen force, the Dark Void surged into the portal, which promptly sealed shut with a soft snap.
Dialga, its gaze lingering for a moment on Akari, inclined its head in a gesture that could be interpreted as acknowledgement before turning and taking flight. With the crisis seemingly averted, there was no reason for it to remain. Palkia, mirroring Dialga's movement, appeared ready to depart as well.
But Akari wasn't finished. "Palkia, I beseech you!" she cried out, her voice ringing with a desperate plea. She didn't know how Palkia would react to casual speech, so she aimed for a more formal tone. "You are the one who displaced Alamos Town, and you have the power to return it to its rightful place!"
Cynthia shot Akari a look filled with concern, unsure how the enraged deity would react. Yet, she remained by Akari's side, a silent pillar of support.
Palkia let loose a thunderous roar that shook the very fabric of the distorted dimension. The sky above them began to glow with an intense blue light, forcing Akari and Cynthia to shield their eyes. When they dared to open them again, the sight that greeted them was a welcome change. The swirling vortex of the distorted dimension had vanished, replaced by the familiar blue sky of their own world. Sunlight peeked through wispy clouds, casting a warm glow on the once-warped landscape.
A small nod from Palkia, a gesture that seemed almost apologetic, acknowledged Akari's plea. Then, with a powerful flap of its wings, the god of space took flight, disappearing into the clear blue sky.
Akari let out a relieved sigh, a smile slowly spreading across her face. With the crisis averted and Alamos Town restored, the tension that had gripped her finally began to ease. Using her Arc Belt, she deactivated the Hisui outfit, the familiar clothes materialising back on her body. A deep groan escaped her lips as the exhaustion of the ordeal settled in.
Cynthia, a proud smile gracing her lips as Garchomp descended towards the ground, Cynthia guided Gyarados to follow her down. "You did an amazing job, Akari." Cynthia said as she hopped off of Garchomp and returned her, with Akari doing the same to her Pokémon. While the day was far from over, Akari knew that the worst of it had passed.
••• ••• •••
Akari hummed softly as she prepared lunch for everyone. While they eagerly awaited her meal, her mind couldn't help but drift back to recent events. Witnessing the true power of Dialga and Palkia first hand had been terrifying. Their raw power dwarfed anything she had encountered in The Dream and they didn't seem to recognise her either.
After the ordeal subsided, everyone gathered to debrief and check on Darkrai's recovery. Apparently, Godey's past actions had instilled a similar sense of foreboding in Darkrai. Sensing an impending threat, Darkrai sought to warn Alice, mistaking her for her grandmother, Alicia. However, Darkrai's reclusive nature and the inherent fear its presence instilled in humans made direct communication difficult. It chose to remain on the outskirts of Alamos Town, hoping to subtly influence events until it had to directly intervene.
This also explained why Darkrai had put all the Pokémon to sleep. Its intention wasn't to harm them, but rather to pacify them and encourage their trainers to leave the town. Unfortunately, Darkrai wasn't aware of the advancements made to Pokémon Centers since Alicia's time. He believed they would be unable to handle the looming crisis and hoped they would evacuate everyone, yet the trainers believed the Pokémon Center could help which caused them to stay.
Furthermore, Darkrai hadn't anticipated the dreaming Pokémon being affected by the dimensional shift. This unexpected complication forced it to focus on battling Palkia to drive the deity away. The arrival of Dialga further compounded the situation, making the battle exponentially more difficult. Despite Darkrai's initial reluctance, Darkrai admitted Cynthia's timely intervention proved invaluable.
Cynthia, ever the champion, offered Darkrai a warm smile, assuring him that she would always be there to lend a hand when needed. Satisfied that the crisis was averted and everyone was safe, Cynthia eventually departed from Alamos Town, setting off for Celestic Town.
Alice and Tonio remained by Darkrai's side as he recuperated from his injuries. The rest of the group, exhausted from the day's events, decided to rest for the night at the Pokémon Center. Thankfully, their fatigue wasn't debilitating, as the following day was Alamos Town's contest.
Dawn put up a valiant effort in the competition, faced off against the red-haired trainer who used a Honchkrow with the move Defog on the bridge - named Allegra, she battled Dawn using an Infernape. Despite the challenge, Allegra battled fiercely and ultimately emerged victorious, claiming the coveted Alamos Town Ribbon.
With their business in Alamos Town concluded, it was time to depart the next day. As they crossed the bridge, they saw Alice and Tonio waving goodbye from their hot air balloon. Casting a long shadow over them, Darkrai stood vigil atop the Space-Time Towers. The morning sun bathed the town in a warm glow, and Darkrai's shadow stretched out beside them, a silent guardian watching over Alamos Town.
Suddenly, a high-pitched whine pierced the air, jolting Akari from her thoughts. She looked up with a start, her Pokémon following suit, as a pink blur hurtled towards her. The object, a small, furry creature, collided with Akari's chest with surprising force. Akari stumbled back a few steps, momentarily knocked off balance by the impact.
Glancing down, she gasped. The pink object was none other than Mew, mewling and sobbing uncontrollably. Tears streamed down the Mythical Pokémon's face like a waterfall as it clung to Akari's clothes.
"Mew?!" Akari cried out in disbelief. Her Pokémon mirrored her shock, their cries of surprise echoing through the air. The missing party member had returned, but under the most unexpected circumstances.
Volume 1 is finally complete. For anyone who hasn't Followed/Favorite liked this fic yet, I would highly recommend to do so since a whole volume has passed, this quality will be what to expect going forward. If you have anything to share, the reviews are open to all. If reading this Volume didn't get you to do it, I don't know what will.
Tune in next time for Dreams Never End: Chapter 22 - Why Worry
Next chapter will be on the 30th, Sunday.