Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know there's a new chapter coming this Saturday.
The chapter title is based on the song from Thousand Foot Krutch.
I think I might raise the age rating to T at some point. After re-reading this chapter for final review, I realised I went a little ham on the violence with this one. I don't know if it's enough for T however.
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.
Professor Rowan entered his laboratory, only to be met with a tableau of stunned silence from his staff. Their wide eyes and slack jaws painted a picture of utter chaos. "Yes, this is my laboratory, isn't it?" Rowan inquired, a quizzical eyebrow raised. His normally calm demeanour was tinged with a hint of bewilderment.
"Of course it is, Professor!" the assistants chorused in a flurry of apologies. As Rowan and the girl scanned the room, taking in the scattered papers, overturned furniture, and the gaping hole in the second-story window, the girl muttered, "Oh dear..." under her breath, a hint of concern flickering across her youthful face.
"Professor, we're so sorry!" Yuzo exclaimed, his voice laced with desperation. "Professor, we're terribly sorry! There's been a mishap. The Chimchar and Piplup we had prepared for the new trainer escaped into the forest. To make matters worse, Starly and Staraptor got loose during my evolution research in all the chaos. Thankfully, Turtwig is still here."
Indeed, perched on the table where three Pokémon should have been sat a lone Turtwig. Completely oblivious to the commotion, the little grass-type Pokémon happily munched on his food, pausing only for a startled yelp as he looked up to greet Professor Rowan.
Rowan sighed, his brow furrowing as he surveyed the scene. "Yes..." he muttered, deep in thought. The weight of the situation settled on his shoulders.
"Uh, sir," the girl piped up, snapping Rowan out of his reverie. "I'd like to go look for them."
Rowan, surprised by her initiative, raised an eyebrow. "You would?"
The girl puffed out her chest, her chin held high. "Of course!" she exclaimed, her voice bright with a determination that belied her young age. "They could be my future partner, after all!"
Rowan studied her thoughtfully as he gained a look of understanding. The girl, confused by his silent response, opened her mouth to speak, but he cut her off.
"If you find them," he instructed, his voice gentle yet firm, "remember to crouch down and speak to them at eye level. It should help calm them down."
Beaming with gratitude for his permission, the girl chirped, "Okay! I can do that! I promise I'll be careful!" Her enthusiasm was infectious, a welcome contrast to the tense atmosphere that had filled the room moments ago. Akari, however, having finally processed the bizarre turn of events, felt a pang of concern.
"Excuse me, Professor," she interjected, her voice laced with a hint of nervousness. "Given that she doesn't have any Pokémon with her, wouldn't it be safer if I accompanied her? Letting her venture out alone wouldn't be responsible, especially since I'm familiar with the potential dangers lurking in the surrounding areas."
Both Rowan and the girl turned to Akari, surprised by her sudden intervention. Rowan stroked his chin thoughtfully, her suggestion holding merit. The girl, meanwhile, gaped in astonishment. The commotion had masked Akari's presence, and now, seeing her for the first time, the girl's jaw dropped. Akari, with her older appearance but strikingly similar features, was an undeniable image of herself if she was a a few years older.
"Good idea, Akari," Rowan finally stated, a hint of relief washing over his features. "The two of you working together will be much more effective. I wish you both the best of luck in retrieving our missing Pokémon."
"Thank you, Professor," Akari and the girl replied in unison. Sharing a brief, yet curious glance, Akari and the girl stepped out of the lab and into the sun-drenched field. The warmth of the morning sun beat down on their shoulders, stirring a gentle breeze that rustled the leaves of the nearby trees. Birdsong filled the air, a melodic counterpoint to the rhythmic crunch of their boots on the cool grass. Their eyes scanned the tall grass and distant treeline, searching for any sign of the missing Pokémon.
As they walked, an awkward silence descended, broken only by the sounds of nature. Akari, acutely aware of the tension hanging heavy in the air, decided to ease it. Clearing her throat, she started hesitantly, "You know," she began, "our towns are fairly close, aren't they? Sandgem Town and Twinleaf Town? It's not entirely out of the realm of possibility that... we might be related somehow?"
The girl considered this, her brow furrowing in thought. She chewed thoughtfully on her lower lip for a moment before giving a hesitant nod. "It's definitely a possibility," she replied quietly. "After all, family members often share a resemblance. But the likeness is uncanny – you look almost exactly like me, only older."
A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Well, I'm Dawn," she said, extending a hand towards Akari. "What's your name, Professor?"
Akari shook her head, a gentle laugh escaping her lips. "Akari," she said, the smile widening. "Professor? I'm just an assistant to the Professor, actually. I have a long way to go before I earn that title."
Dawn's eyes twinkled with amusement. "Professor Rowan is much nicer than I expected," she commented, gesturing back at the lab with her thumb. "Really kind, actually."
••• ••• •••
Now that the tension had melted away, replaced by a newfound sense of camaraderie, they decided to pick up the pace and began jogging side-by-side. Their path to the forest revealed a vibrant tapestry of Pokémon life. Bidoof lumbered about the meadow, their oversized teeth gnawing on fallen branches, while Bibarel waddled after them, diligently collecting the discarded wood for their dams. A regal Staravia perched on a moss-covered boulder, surveying its domain with a piercing gaze that occasionally shifted to a nearby Buneary who peeked at it with wide, curious eyes. Overhead, a flurry of Starly zipped back and forth through the branches, their chirps echoing through the trees. But none of these sights, however charming, could pull their attention away from their mission. The escaped Pokémon remained their top priority.
Reaching the edge of the forest, Akari and Dawn parted the tall grass, their gazes scanning the dense foliage that shrouded the undergrowth. Sunlight dappled the forest floor in a mosaic of light and shadow, making it difficult to spot movement. But then, a flash of orange caught Dawn's attention.
"There!" she exclaimed, pointing excitedly towards a nearby tree. Perched on a branch, its fiery tail, a beacon against the green leaves, was Chimchar. The nimble fire-type Pokémon swung from branch to branch with acrobatic agility, its movements a blur of orange fur and flickering flame.
Before they could devise a plan to capture Chimchar, a blue blur erupted from the underbrush beneath the tree. Piplup, its tiny body puffed up with indignation and a determined glint in its beady black eyes, squawked a challenge at Chimchar. The playful banter had clearly escalated into a full-fledged feud.
"Piplup!" Dawn called out, her voice a hopeful plea to get the disgruntled penguin's attention. But Piplup was fixated on its fiery rival. Ignoring Dawn's pleas, it launched a Bubble Beam that zipped towards Chimchar with surprising speed.
The fire-type Pokémon, with its well-honed reflexes, reacted instantly. With a nimble leap and a graceful twist in mid-air, it dodged the attack, continuing its arboreal acrobatics with a mischievous glint in its eyes. Relief washed over Dawn, but it was short-lived.
"Piplup!" Dawn called out again, her voice laced with growing concern. But the stubborn penguin Pokémon seemed more interested in its fiery companion than heeding Dawn's commands. It launched another Bubble Beam, the sparkling sphere narrowly missing Chimchar as it swung from branch to branch.
Akari tried to intervene at the continuous attacks. "Stop that, Piplup!" she shouted, her voice tinged with worry. But the normally well-behaved Pokémon ignored her warning, unleashing another Bubble Beam – this time aimed directly at Dawn and Akari. Both girls, surprised by the sudden hostility, reacted instinctively. With a startled yelp, they leaped out of the way just as the sparkling sphere whizzed past, leaving a damp mark on the ground where they had stood moments before.
"Hey, that's not nice!" Dawn exclaimed, a surge of annoyance crackling in her voice. She whipped around, searching for the misbehaving penguin. But Akari was already disappearing into the thicket, her determined voice calling out, "Wait up, you guys!" without a backward glance. Adrenaline coursing through her veins, Dawn didn't hesitate. With a determined shove through the undergrowth, she rushed after Akari, the damp earth squelching under her boots.
As they plunged deeper into the forest, sunlight filtering through the dense canopy cast dancing shadows on the forest floor. Dawn weaved between towering trees, her voice echoing through the stillness. "Chimchar! Piplup!" she called out, her hopeful shouts punctuated by the rhythmic snapping of twigs underfoot. Her pleas were met only by the rustling of leaves disturbed by their passage and the high-pitched chirping of unseen birds flitting through the branches overhead.
Akari, her brow furrowed in concentration, scanned the maze of trees and undergrowth. "Where could they have gone now?" she muttered, her voice barely audible over the whisper of the wind through the leaves. The once inviting forest now seemed vast and slightly intimidating, its dense foliage creating a labyrinthine path that seemed to twist and turn endlessly. A knot of worry tightened in Akari's stomach.
Suddenly, a frantic cry pierced the air, a sound that sent shivers racing down Dawn's spine. Her eyes darted around, searching for the source of the distress call. "Is that Piplup?" she gasped, a tremor of concern lacing her voice. Without waiting for confirmation, Dawn surged forward, her feet pounding a hasty rhythm against the damp earth as she followed the sound deeper into the heart of the forest.
They stumbled upon a horrifying sight: Piplup, along with several other Pokémon – a startled Cherubi, a bewildered Beedrill, and a struggling Kricketot – all entangled in a glistening web spun by a hidden Spider menace. Akari, ever vigilant, stood guard at the edge of the clearing, her hand hovering near her Poké Ball, prepared for any lurking Bug-type ambush. The dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy cast an eerie glow on the scene, highlighting the glistening strands of the web that bound the unfortunate Pokémon.
"There you are!" Dawn exclaimed, relief flooding her face despite the dire situation. She rushed towards Piplup, her concern overriding caution. But before she could take another step, a sudden explosion of putrid green slime erupted beside them. With lightning-fast reflexes, Akari lunged forward, grabbing Dawn and yanking her back just as the noxious Sludge Bomb detonated where they had been standing.
A sickening stench filled the air, clinging to their clothes and momentarily masking the fresh scent of the surrounding foliage. They both looked up, meeting the cold gaze of Ariados. The monstrous spider Pokémon loomed menacingly in the centre of its web. Its crimson body, adorned with stark black markings, stood out against the intricate web like a gruesome centrepiece. The vibrant yellow and blue bands on its territorial legs were a chilling contrast to the otherwise muted tones of the forest floor.
"Ariados, leave them alone!" Akari warned, her voice firm despite the tremor of adrenaline coursing through her veins. Ignoring her completely, the territorial Ariados reared up on its hind legs, launching another glob of sludge, its actions leaving no room for negotiation. Akari, a blur of movement, dodged it with a practised roll. Wasting no time, Akari reached for her Poké Ball, her mind already formulating a strategy.
"Looks like we have no choice," Akari declared. "Chimchar, your turn!" With a burst of red light, Chimchar materialised beside her, her fiery tail crackling with anticipation. "Use Ember!" Akari commanded, her voice ringing out with resolve. Chimchar, wasting no time, inhaled deeply, her cheeks puffing out like miniature bellows. Then, with a forceful exhale, she unleashed a concentrated stream of fire.
Ariados recoiled with a startled shriek, its chitinous shell sizzling from the direct hit as wisps of smoke rose from the point of impact. Enraged, it screeched in fury, its eyes glowing a menacing red. With surprising agility, the spider Pokémon scuttled off the web and onto the rough bark of a nearby tree, its movements swift and purposeful. It positioned itself strategically on a thick branch, flanking Chimchar and effectively cutting off their previous escape route.
The tense silence shattered as the duel escalated into a whirlwind of motion. Ember clashed with Sludge Bomb, the resulting explosions showering the forest floor in a rain of dust and debris. The duo danced around the explosive projectiles they launched at each other. Their Nimble movements were honed, each leap and dodge leaving behind a smouldering crater that spoke volumes of their prowess. Akari's voice rose above the chaos, her eyes narrowed in concentration as she barked out commands. "You're dodging now?" she shouted, a hint of frustration laced with her determination. "Now, Swift!" Responding instantly to his trainer's instructions, Chimchar leaped into the air, her body twisting in mid-flight. A barrage of star-shaped white projectiles erupted from her fur, a dazzling display that streaked towards the surprised Ariados perched on the branch above.
Ariados attempted to evade, but the Swifts homed in with unerring accuracy, striking it with a direct hit. The enraged Pokémon hissed, its fury doubling as glowing red cracks erupted across its chitinous shell. Meanwhile, Dawn, seeing an opening in the chaos, formulated a plan. She strode purposefully towards the web, her voice ringing out with newfound confidence.
"Hey, creepy-crawly coward! I'm freeing these Pokémon, and you can't stop me!" she taunted, her voice laced with a bravado she didn't entirely feel. The plan was risky, to say the least, but Dawn knew they needed a distraction. It worked. Ariados, momentarily forgetting Chimchar, focused its multiple eyes on Dawn, unwilling to lose its potential new prey. With a frustrated screech, it launched a glob of thick, green Sludge Bomb. But Dawn, quicker than her appearance suggested, reacted with lightning reflexes. In a graceful leap, she propelled herself aside, the attack detonating harmlessly at the base of the web. The resulting explosion tore a gaping hole, sending the trapped Pokémon tumbling to freedom in a flurry of feathers and fur.
"Gotcha!" Dawn exclaimed, a wide grin splitting her face as she caught Piplup in her arms just before it landed on the soft earth. Piplup whined softly, clearly shaken by the close call with the Sludge Bomb. Its tiny body trembled slightly, and Dawn instinctively tightened her grip, whispering reassurances.
"Don't worry, you're safe now," she murmured, her voice a soothing balm to the frightened Pokémon. Unfortunately, her focus on Piplup's well-being momentarily blinded her to the treacherous terrain underfoot. A slick patch of moss, obscured by the fallen leaves, lay hidden just a few steps downhill. With a startled yelp that ripped through the clearing, Dawn lost her balance on the steep incline. She tried to regain her footing, but it was too late.
Akari's heart lurched into her throat as Dawn vanished from sight. "Dawn!" she screamed, panic a rising tide in her voice. The cry echoed through the clearing, momentarily silencing the chaos of the battle. But her own distraction, a lapse in focus born of concern, had made her oblivious to the growing threat posed by Ariados. The enraged spider Pokémon, its fangs dripping with venomous sludge, had shifted its attention. Its eyes burned with a malevolent red glow, now fixated solely on Akari. In a burst of movement, Ariados shot out another Sludge Bomb, this time directed at Akari.
However, a blur of orange fur shot between them. Chimchar, ever the vigilant companion, had spotted the incoming Sludge Bomb hurtling towards Akari. Without hesitation, the brave Pokémon launched herself forward in a fearless cry. With a burst of speed, Chimchar leaped in front of her trainer and acted as a living shield. Her tiny body tensed, arms crossed protectively in a futile attempt to ward off the blow.
The explosion erupted with a deafening roar that sent shockwaves rippling through the clearing. The force of the Sludge Bomb threw Chimchar back several feet. She skidded across the rough terrain, her singed fur smoking faintly from the direct hit. But despite the obvious pain and the momentary stumble, Chimchar's fiery spirit remained unbroken with her eyes still locked onto the enraged Ariados. The sudden danger had the same effect on Akari. She snapped out of her daze, adrenaline surged through her veins, washing away the fear and replacing it with a fierce resolve.
"Chimchar!" Akari gasped, dashing to be beside the injured Pokémon. A mix of concern and self-reproach trembled in her voice. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, her eyes welling up with unshed tears. "I shouldn't have gotten distracted. It's my fault you're hurt."
With a defiant growl, Chimchar shook off the lingering soot and embers that clung to her fur. She stood protectively beside Akari, her resolve hardened by the threat Ariados posed.
Akari squeezed her eyes shut for a brief moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself and focus her thoughts. When she opened them again, her gaze was steely with determination. "Alright, Chimchar," Akari said, her voice firm despite the tremor that still lingered from the shockwave. "Ariados is too fast for Ember to hit. We need to counter with something it can't dodge! Use Swift again - but this time, use Strong Style!"
The fiery monkey, Chimchar, zipped into action with a blur of orange fur. Unleashing a barrage of star-shaped projectiles, peppering the looming Ariados with a flurry of Swift attacks. These shimmering projectiles, condensed bursts of energy, zipped through the air like miniature comets. The spider Pokémon, anticipating the assault, blurred into motion with an inhuman speed that left a trail of shimmering afterimages.
A powerful, barbed leg lashed out like a whip, connecting squarely with Chimchar's body, sending the small Pokémon crashing into a nearby tree with a sickening thud. The impact knocked the wind out of her lungs, a strangled gasp escaping her tiny throat. But Chimchar, fueled by an indomitable spirit, refused to yield. Despite the searing pain and momentary disorientation, her Swift attacks continued their relentless assault, finding their mark regardless. The shimmering projectiles stung Ariados with concentrated bursts of energy, leaving behind faint scorch marks on its exoskeleton.
"Sucker punch!" Akari yelled, recognizing the spider Pokémon's exploitative attack pattern. Adrenaline surging through her veins, she reacted with practised efficiency. Recalling the injured Chimchar with a flash of red light, Akari retrieved a Luxury Ball emblazoned with a golden band from her belt. With a decisive click, the ball sprang open, bathing the clearing in a soft light that coalesced into the form of a small, Vine-headed Budew. "Your turn, Budew!" Akari called out, her voice ringing with determination.
Akari barked her command, her voice a mix of encouragement and steely resolve. "Let's deal some serious damage, Extrasensory - Strong Style!" Budew's eyes pulsed with verdant light, focusing his psychic energy. Ariados, a veteran of countless battles, instinctively braced itself, its legs twitching in anticipation of an attack from any direction. But it wasn't prepared for the formless wave of psychic energy that struck it directly inside its head, bypassing its hardened exoskeleton entirely. The blow overloaded its senses, eliciting a pained hiss that echoed through the clearing. Visible shockwaves rippled outwards from the point of impact, momentarily disrupting the dust swirling around the battlefield.
Ariados, enraged and disoriented, lashed out with a venomous Sludge Bomb aimed squarely at Budew. Unlike the nimble Chimchar, the small, plant-based Pokémon lacked the agility to dodge in time. The viscous projectile struck Budew with a sickening splat, the noxious sludge coating his leafy form and sending a jolt of pain through his tiny body. Budew winced, its vibrant green momentarily dimming, but Akari wouldn't give up. Her brow furrowed in concern, but her voice remained firm as she assessed the situation, already formulating her next move.
"Slow it down!" she shouted, her voice laced with urgency. "Stun Spore!" Budew responded with a burst of bioluminescent energy that pulsed through his vines. The tendrils unfurled, releasing a shimmering cloud of pearlescent spores that drifted towards the already-weakened spider like miniature dandelion seeds. Despite its impressive speed, Ariados, its senses dulled by the Extrasensory attack, couldn't react in time. The spores enveloped the spider in a shimmering haze, and its movements became sluggish as the paralysis took hold. Its legs twitched spasmodically, its once-menacing clicks replaced by frustrated hisses.
Seizing the opportunity, Akari barked out a command. "Retreat, Budew!" Budew, despite his own weariness, dug his heels (or rather, roots) in and launched a concentrated pulse of energy, propelling himself backwards with surprising speed. Akari mirrored the movement, sprinting away from the increasingly frustrated Ariados. They put as much distance between themselves and the enraged creature as the forest terrain would allow.
Though hampered by the paralysis, Ariados, fueled by a primal fury, managed to launch a desperate attack. With a burst of unexpected agility, it leaped into the air. A glistening strand of web, thick and sticky like flypaper, shot from its spinnerets, ensnaring Budew mid-retreat. The impact yanked the small Pokémon back with alarming speed, his startled cry cut short as he collided painfully with the ground. Before Budew could recover, Ariados descended upon it with a menacing glint in its beady eyes. The horn on its head pulsed with a sickly green light, glowing ominously as it prepared its ultimate attack: Fell Stinger. With a sickening crunch, the attack landed a critical hit. Budew let out a weak groan, his small body crumpling on the ground, barely conscious.
Without hesitation, Akari recalled the injured Budew with a flash of red light. Her face, etched with a mixture of concern and determination, momentarily betrayed the turmoil within. "That was too close," she murmured, clutching the Luxury Ball tightly as she continued her retreat. "We'll get you patched up later, little buddy," she promised, her voice a low murmur filled with tenderness.
Akari's heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat echoing in her ears. The adrenaline that had surged through her veins during her desperate escape was slowly starting to ebb, replaced by a cold wave of dread. She had to put distance between her and the enraged Ariados. Reaching the riverbank, she skidded to a halt, gasping for breath. The sight that greeted her, however, brought a flicker of relief to her eyes. The rushing water of the river presented a formidable barrier, one that would surely deter Ariados, especially in its paralyzed state.
With newfound resolve, Akari took a running leap, her worn boots pounding against the uneven ground. The cool spray of the river misted her face as she cleared the gap in a single, daring bound. Relief washed over her as she landed safely on the opposite bank, her chest heaving with exertion. A triumphant grin, wide and genuine, split her face. "This is where we turn the tables, Ariados!" she cried, her voice ringing with newfound determination. Reaching for the Dive Ball on her belt, she flicked it open with practised ease. "Your turn, Magikarp!" she declared, releasing the red fish Pokémon from its Dive Ball. With a powerful splash and a flash of crimson, Magikarp launched itself into the churning water, following Akari as she ran upstream to Lake Verity, his powerful tail propelling him with surprising speed.
A guttural hiss, laced with venomous fury, ripped through the air. The sound tore through Akari's momentary relief like a sharp claw, jolting her back to reality. Ariados, its legs churning in defiance of the paralysis, charged across the uneven terrain with a primal rage that belied its sluggish movements. The paralysis, while evident in the spider's laboured gait, seemed to fuel its fury rather than hinder it. Its fangs dripped with a viscous, venomous sludge, glinting ominously in the fading sunlight like obsidian shards.
Akari's heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic drumbeat urging her on. Adrenaline surged back into her veins, momentarily pushing down the tendrils of fear that threatened to paralyse her. "Magikarp, use Tackle! Knock it back!" she cried, her voice hoarse with a mixture of fear and determination. There was no time for complex strategies; a desperate manoeuvre was their only hope.
The red fish Pokémon, ever the eager participant in a good splash, responded with impressive speed. With a powerful flick of his tail, he propelled himself from the water like a living projectile. The spray from his launch momentarily obscured Akari's vision, but the force of the Tackle hit just as Ariados was about to jump. He slammed into Ariados' underbelly with surprising force, the impact sending a ripple of shock – both physical and surprising – through the enraged spider. Ariados screeched in fury, its momentum momentarily halted. But the reprieve was short-lived.
As Ariados righted itself, its eyes narrowed with malevolent intent. A low growl rumbled from its throat, a promise of venomous retribution. In one swift, horrifying motion, it reared back, its abdomen pulsing ominously. With a sickening splat, a glob of venomous Sludge Bomb erupted from its maw, aimed directly at the airborne Magikarp. Caught mid-air, the agile fish lacked the manoeuvrability to evade the attack. The vile substance exploded in a noxious cloud, engulfing Magikarp in a putrid green mist. The impact sent the red fish Pokémon crashing back into the water with a sickening splash.
Akari scanned the water's surface, her heart hammering a frantic tattoo against her ribs. Each passing second stretched into an eternity as she searched for any sign of movement. Relief flooded her veins like a tidal wave as a flash of red broke the surface. Magikarp, though clearly shaken, had managed to resurface. His normally vibrant crimson scales were dulled, flecked with patches of the noxious sludge, but he was okay. With a powerful flick of his tail, the valiant fish kept pace with Akari as she ran upstream, staying just beneath the water's surface.
Ariados, however, wasn't about to let its prey flee so easily. Its patience, already frayed by the persistent escape, snapped completely. With a shrill screech that echoed across the riverbank, it lashed out with a sticky String Shot. The glistening web, fired with surprising accuracy, arced through the air, aiming to ensnare the slippery fish and drag it back into the clutches of the enraged spider Pokémon. Akari's eyes widened in alarm.
"Magikarp, use Splash - Agile Style!" she commanded, her voice laced with desperation. The ever-present fear gnawed at the edges of her resolve, but Akari refused to give in. Splash, a useless move in most circumstances, could be surprisingly effective when used with the Agile Style. It could provide the burst of speed Magikarp needed to evade the incoming String Shot. "Then follow up with Tackle - Strong Style!" she barked, hoping to capitalise on any momentary advantage Splash might create.
In a burst of water and scales, Magikarp propelled himself skyward with surprising agility. The shimmering Splash attack erupted from its body, creating a momentary smokescreen that obscured his true trajectory. Just as the sticky web snapped shut in the empty space where Magikarp had been a split second ago, the red fish burst free from the watery shroud. Ariados, sluggish from the paralysis, tried to react with a swipe of its hairy leg, but was a hair too slow. The combined force of the Splash and his own desperate leap propelled Magikarp past the intended target.
Instead of the expected Tackle on their way down, an unexpected transformation unfolded before Akari's astonished eyes. Magikarp's body, usually a dull crimson, crackled with vibrant energy. A surge of power, long dormant within the unassuming fish, rose to the surface. With a powerful Bounce, Magikarp slammed into Ariados with the force of a miniature meteor. The impact sent shockwaves rippling through the surrounding air. The spider Pokémon let out a surprised shriek, its legs flailing wildly as it was sent reeling back. The blow connected with the hard exoskeleton of Ariados' back, leaving a visible dent across its surface.
Akari let out a cheer, a sound that erupted from her lips like a burst of sunshine breaking through a storm. Relief and pride warred within her, a thrilling mix of emotions. "Alright, Magikarp! Now let's-," she began, her voice brimming with newfound confidence. But her victory cry was cut short by a sudden eruption of sound. A burst of flames erupted from the nearby treeline. It was Chimchar, the runaway fire monkey, its determination burning bright. Beside it, a blur of feathers zipped through the air – Starly, its small body alight with surprising resolve. Together, the unlikely duo launched a furious assault on the disoriented Ariados.
Soaring high above the battlefield, a majestic silhouette emerged from the sky as Staraptor swooped down with a powerful cry. Its keen eyes, sharp as obsidian shards, were fixed on the weakened spider Pokémon. Akari, her heart pounding a frantic rhythm against her ribs, seized the golden opportunity.
"Staraptor, Aerial Ace!" she commanded, her voice ringing with newfound authority. The majestic bird Pokémon acknowledged her command with a sharp cry that echoed through the clearing. Its powerful wings, each beat a testament to raw avian power, sliced through the air. With unerring precision, honed by countless battles, Staraptor slammed into the side of Ariados with the force of a hurricane. The enraged spider Pokémon, caught completely off guard by the combined assault, let out a shriek of pain as it was sent flying with a resounding crash. Its body disappeared into the dense foliage of the forest depths, the impact leaving a shuddering tremor in its wake.
"Alright, team!" Akari cheered, her voice filled with pride that echoed through the clearing. "That was amazing! You all did wonderfully!" Turning to her impromptu allies, she offered a warm smile. "Had enough fun? Time to head back to the lab for some rest." The Pokémon all seemed content. Chimchar, having fun from exploring the forest, clung to Staraptor's powerful talon with a triumphant grin. Staraptor, its feathers ruffled but chest puffed with pride, followed gracefully behind the flitting Starly, who seemed to chirp in agreement with Akari's suggestion.
As Akari returned the exhausted Magikarp to its Dive Ball with a gentle touch, she spotted Dawn and Piplup approaching from the opposite direction. Relief washed over her as she saw that they both seemed relatively unharmed, despite the obvious wear and tear from their own encounter. A tired but triumphant grin spread across her face as she quickened her pace to meet them.
"Akari!" Dawn's voice pierced the clearing, laced with breathless excitement that sent joy through Akari. "We just saw a Pokémon! It was practically invisible, but I could barely make out its shape through a shimmering distortion. It caused ripples in the water from afar, and even the air seemed to distort around it!"
Intrigued, Akari beckoned Dawn closer with a wave. "Slow down, Dawn," she said gently. "Take a breath and tell me everything." Her concern was genuine, the earlier battle leaving her on edge. Had they stumbled upon something dangerous? As Dawn recounted the experience, a thoughtful frown creased Akari's brow.
As Dawn recounted the experience, a thoughtful frown creased Akari's brow. She listened intently, piecing together the details Dawn provided. Finally, a realisation dawned on her, and she spoke, her voice hushed with a sudden understanding. "There's only one Pokémon I can think of that fits that description," she said, keeping her gaze fixed on Dawn. "Mesprit, the Lake Guardian of Emotions."
Akari opted to keep her own experience with the Legendary Pokémon a secret, leaving the explanation brief. Akari could go into detail about The Dream, but explaining it all to Dawn, someone she just met - even if they looked alike, felt like a risk. Akari wasn't sure she could trust anyone with such a personal and potentially unbelievable story. Dawn's eyes widened in astonishment. "A legendary...?" she stammered, a mixture of awe and disbelief coloring her tone. "That was... Mesprit?"
"It's true that encounters with Legendary Pokémon are uncommon, especially Mesprit," Akari acknowledged, her voice tinged with a hint of awe. "They're known for their elusive nature, preferring to remain shrouded in mystery." Her gaze drifted to the horizon, as if picturing these enigmatic creatures. "What an incredible experience, Dawn. You must be feeling incredibly lucky!" she exclaimed, a genuine smile warming her features. "Perhaps it was your empathetic nature that resonated with Mesprit," Akari added thoughtfully.
Dawn tilted her head, her brow furrowing in curiosity. "What do you mean?" she asked, eager to understand.
Akari chuckled softly. "Think back to when we first met outside Professor Rowan's lab. You mentioned how kind he seemed. Many find his demeanour intimidating and it would normally take people time to see past his gruff exterior, but you noticed right away." She met Dawn's gaze with a knowing smile. "Perhaps Mesprit possesses a similar ability, sensing the kindness and sincerity within a trainer's heart."
The dense foliage thinned, revealing a welcome sight: the familiar silhouette of Professor Rowan's laboratory nestled comfortably in the distance. A smile touched Akari's lips, relief washing over her in waves. "There's the lab, Dawn," she announced, her voice tinged with the satisfaction of a challenge overcome. "Our unexpected adventure is drawing to a close."
Dawn, her eyes still sparkling with the thrill of their encounter with the legendary Mesprit, echoed Akari's smile. Piplup, perched contentedly in her arms, chirped in agreement. Together, they quickened their pace, eager to return to the familiar warmth of the lab.
••• ••• •••
Back at the lab, a sense of accomplishment filled the air. After ensuring all the Pokémon were safely returned to their Poké Balls and the lab gleamed with the satisfaction of a post-adventure clean-up, the group at Professor Rowan's lab prepared to send Dawn off on her long-awaited Pokémon journey.
Professor Rowan himself emerged from his office, his eyes landed on Akari and Dawn. A hint of relief flickered across his features before he boomed in a welcoming voice, "Ah, there you both are! I see you've made it back safely."
Akari released a breath she hadn't realised she was holding. Relief mingled with a touch of satisfaction washed over her. The day's events had been exhilarating, but also fraught with danger. Dawn, for her part, seemed to vibrate with barely contained excitement.
"Now, about Dawn's journey..." Professor Rowan trailed off, his gaze lingering on Dawn for a moment. A smile, filled with pride and a touch of paternal fondness, spread across his face. "Today marks a momentous occasion, Dawn," he began, his voice resonating with a weight that spoke of the importance of the moment. "While it's been a whirlwind of activity, it is time to start the beginning of your very own Pokémon journey."
Dawn beamed, her eyes sparkling with a light that rivalled the morning sun. This day, this very moment, was something she'd dreamt of since she was a little girl, clutching a worn picture book filled with fantastical creatures and their trainers. The promise of adventure, of forging bonds with incredible Pokémon, and of exploring the vast world beyond her hometown thrummed through her veins while performing in Contests.
"First, the essentials," Professor Rowan continued as he gestured towards Assistant Shun who stood expectantly beside him. Shun stepped forward and held out a tray that held two items that gleamed upon its surface, their significance instantly recognizable to any aspiring trainer. Dawn gasped, a sound that mingled with a surge of barely contained excitement. Her fingers, tingling with a mix of anticipation and nervous energy, itched to reach out and touch them.
Professor Rowan's eyes held amusement as he noticed Dawn's reaction. "The Pokédex," he began, his voice taking on a touch of professorial gravitas, "will be your guide to the amazing world of Pokémon you're about to embark on. It holds information on every Pokémon known to man, a constantly evolving encyclopaedia of knowledge that will become your most trusted companion on your journey." He paused for a moment, allowing Dawn to carefully cradle the sleek device in her hands. Her eyes darted across the screen, scanning the entries with a mix of awe and determination.
"And this," Professor Rowan declared, shifting his attention to the other item on the tray. He picked up a Poké Ball, its scarlet and white surface catching the morning light. With a flick of his wrist, the ball enlarged in his hand, revealing the intricate mechanics hidden within its seemingly simple design. "This, Dawn," he continued, his voice softening, "is the Poké Ball. It allows you to capture and carry your Pokémon companions conveniently. But more importantly," he added, his gaze locking with Dawn's, "it represents the beginning of a bond, a promise of trust and friendship between trainer and Pokémon." He gently opened the Poké Ball, revealing its empty interior, a canvas waiting to be filled with the potential for countless incredible partnerships
"Now," Professor Rowan's voice dipped to a note of solemnity, his kind eyes holding Dawn's gaze. "The moment you've been dreaming of. It's time to choose your first Pokémon companion. But before you make this momentous decision, allow me to introduce the three Sinnoh starters!"
With a flourish, Professor Rowan gestured towards three Poké Balls nestled on a nearby table. A hush fell over the room as anticipation crackled in the air. With a click and a burst of light, each Poké Ball released its inhabitant. Before Dawn stood a trio of Pokémon, each radiating a distinct personality and elemental power.
In the centre, perched proudly on a stack of research papers, sat Chimchar, the Fire-type monkey. Its fiery mane crackled with barely contained energy, and its bright eyes darted around the room, taking in the scene with a mischievous glint. To Dawn's left stood Piplup, the spunky penguin Pokémon. Its tiny blue body bristled with an air of self-importance, its bright orange beak held high as it surveyed the scene with a regal air. Turtwig, the Grass-type turtle Pokémon, stood to Dawn's right. Unlike its more flamboyant companions, Turtwig exuded a calm demeanour. Its leafy head swivelled slowly, taking in its surroundings with a sense of quiet curiosity.
Professor Rowan launched into a detailed explanation of each Pokémon's strengths and personality. He described Chimchar's fiery spirit and boundless energy, Piplup's sharp wit and unwavering loyalty, and Turtwig's patient nature and surprising resilience. As he spoke, Dawn already came to a conclusion on who she would pick, but still carefully absorbing every detail provided. A whirlwind of emotions swirled within her – excitement, anticipation, and a touch of nervousness. This was it. The decision that would shape the course of her entire Pokémon journey.
Finally, a determined smile settled on Dawn's face. Her gaze locked onto one of the three Pokémon, and a surge of confidence filled her. "I've already decided!" she declared, her voice ringing with conviction. She pointed a finger decisively at the penguin Pokémon. "Piplup, I choose you!"
Piplup let out a loud, triumphant squawk, its tiny chest puffing out with pride at being chosen. Chimchar, on the other hand, seemed utterly shocked. Its fiery mane dimmed momentarily, and it slumped over in a display of despair. Turtwig, ever stoic, remained largely unfazed by the drama, simply giving Piplup a slow nod of acknowledgement. The weight of the decision settled upon Dawn, but with Piplup by her side, a new chapter in their adventure was about to begin.
Professor Rowan nodded at their comradery. With a gentle flick of his wrist, he sent Piplup's Poké Ball sailing through the air. It landed softly in Dawn's outstretched hands. The coolness of the metal met her trembling fingers, a tangible symbol of the momentous decision she'd just made.
"This, then," Professor Rowan said, his voice filled with a quiet sincerity, "is Piplup's Poké Ball. May the journey you embark on together forge a bond as strong as steel, filled with laughter, loyalty, and countless adventures."
Dawn gazed at the Poké Ball, a lump forming in her throat. Tears welled up in her eyes, a mixture of overwhelming joy and the dawning realisation of the responsibility she now held. "Thank you, Professor," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. It was more than just gratitude for the Poké Ball; it was a heartfelt expression of appreciation for his guidance and the trust he'd placed in her.
Taking a deep breath, Dawn straightened her resolve. "Alright, Piplup, let's go!" she announced, her voice ringing with excitement. With a gentle smile, she returned Piplup to its Poké Ball, cradling it close to her chest. A spark of anticipation ignited within her. The world outside beckoned, brimming with possibilities, and Dawn, with her trusty Piplup by her side, was finally ready to answer the call.
Professor Rowan and his assistants escorted Dawn outside, the morning sun painting the laboratory in a warm, golden hue. Dewdrops sparkled on the surrounding foliage, and a gentle breeze rustled through the leaves, carrying with it the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers.
"If you ever need anything, Dawn," Rowan said, his gruff voice tinged with pride, "don't hesitate to reach out. Remember, this journey isn't just about catching Pokémon, it's about forging bonds and learning from each other. We're always here for you, back at the lab, to offer guidance and support."
"Thank you for everything, Professor!" Dawn exclaimed, her voice overflowing with gratitude. Her eyes, shining with a kaleidoscope of emotions – excitement, trepidation, and a newfound determination – shone brighter than the morning sun. "I'll be sure to come visit whenever I can!"
With one last wave goodbye, Dawn swung her leg over her trusty bicycle, the well-worn leather seat moulding comfortably beneath her. She secured her backpack, the weight of the Pokédex and Poké Balls, a comforting reminder of her new responsibility, and pushed off from the curb. She gave the pedals a determined push, the wheels crunching on the gravel path as she embarked on her long-awaited journey. As she rode away, a sense of adventure and anticipation crackled in the air, thick enough to taste.
A sense of adventure and anticipation crackled in the air, a tangible energy that seemed to vibrate around Dawn and Piplup, who is nestled safely within his Poké Ball. As she rounded a bend in the path, the assistants' voices, filled with well wishes, carried on the gentle breeze: "Good luck, Dawn! Take care!" and "We believe in you!"
Rowan watched her go, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. He turned to his team, who were gazing after Dawn with a mixture of envy and well wishes. "Well, team," he said, his voice booming with a hint of amusement, "the day isn't over yet. We still have plenty of Pokémon to care for, research to conduct, and perhaps even a few new trainers to prepare for their own journeys in the future."
A chorus of groans met his words, but they were quickly dissolving into good-natured laughter. The team, energised by the thrill of Dawn's new adventure and the prospect of delving into new research, all headed back inside, ready to tackle the challenges that awaited them.
AN
This is probably going to be the chapter closest to my heart. It is the first chapter I have written fully, and the Title of the Song inspired me the most out of the original 6 chapters.
Tune in next time for Dreams Never End: Chapter 6 - Let the Sparks Fly part 2
…
Yeah this chapter was very, VERY long. So I split it into parts.