Primal Latios: Yoyo y'all, I hope that you've been good. I went through some shit in this Pandemic year, being gravely sick myself. That's why I didn't update, among other things...but now, feeling better, much better. So we are ready to take the pen once again. Without further adoo, let's start the recap! Enjoy your read.
TPP Recap : Last episode, the first challenge went underway. Like a huge king of the hill battle royale tournament, all contestant duked it out for the position of team leader. We had a lappapalooza of a battle, many Pokemon showcasing their power, strategic mind, blatant cowardice or misfortune. In the end, Monferno and Sneasel managed to be the last two Pokemon standing and Sneasel took it all in a rousing fashion, gaining the first choice and the winners Laurier from Tapu Koko and Mesprit. Among other things, Haunter seems to have started something and Ninetales and Wartortle started an alliance. What adventures and bloopers are waiting for today? We going to find out in 3,2,1...
( Total Pokemon of Power OP )
It had been an eventful night, but eventually, everyone went to bed or slept out. There was a night, and thus since the world needed to go round, there was a morning.
Birds chirped, warm beams of sunlight pierced the canopy and the windows, triggering the few early birds awake.
In the Intrepid Zacians barrack, Sneasel stirred up from his bunk and stretched. Yesterday's memories were still fresh in his mind and he couldn't help but let a stupid grin appear on his face. Lucid as he was, he couldn't help but savor the sensation of waking up after a triumph on national television.
''I know that it's just one challenge...but damn I did not expect this to feel so good... Well I am the leader of this team, so I should show the exemple by establishing a strict routine starting with myself.'' The sharp claw pokemon thought before jumping down. Leaving his males roomates asleep, he headed toward the main lobby and moved the tables and chairs around to form a round table, feeling that it would make for a much better setting for team meetings. The sharp claw pokemon then picked a corner of the main area to put a chair and a table. It would act as a perfect work desk. Sneasel wanted his team to be well oiled and structured. He knew that the challenges were unpredictable and very volatile, but having a sense of order would help him lead and devise strategies. He did feel like some stuff were missing however...
''I am going to need to make a library furniture at some point...'' He muttered as he was still thinking on how he could make a nice pseudo office for himself. The dark type was so deep in thought that he ignored the presence of a floating metal hulk that had been in the room for a while, rather amused by the Sneasel's antic and did a few calculations on his next few moves before simply deciding to make his presence's known. '' You are acting around 20% of the way I expected you to, leader'' He commented with a monotone voice, his amusement well hidden.
Sneasel almost shouted in fright, making a sharp turn toward the voice he had heard. ''By Arceus...What the f*uck was that...'' He asked out loud before relaxing when his eyes met the relatively unexpressive ones of Metang, who made a noise equivalent of a shrug and floated toward the furret. ''My calculations has shown that you should have generated at least 15% more decibels with that shout. You just keep making them lie...it's fascinating.'' Metang commented, earning a relatively weirded out look from the dark/ice type.
''Ah! it's just you Metang, you are already awake at this early hour?'' Sneasel asked after calming down. Metang once again shrugged ''I only ''sleep'' for around 4 hours. As soon as my circuits are nice and cold, I wake up. I could probably go on weeks without sleep as long as I don't over heat.'' The steel type replied truthfully, hovering around the ferret as he admired the set up. Sneasel then remembered what Metang had said just a few instants prior. ''What do you mean, 20% of the way I expected you to act?'' He inquired, sitting on his leader ''office'' chair for the first of many times during this story.
Metang wasn't cheap on details ; ''Well, observing your interesting merry-go-round this morning, I deduced that you are actually taking your role of leader seriously instead of winging it. You really want to make sure this team goes far and lose as few members as possible. The way you set it up is that you want to make every member feel included and important. The round table was used during the old times in the Kalos region and means exactly that. You make for a 90% more interesting leader from those I have seen in my life.''
Sneasel smiled at this description : ''A sound assesment! You pretty much hit the nail. I know that a structured team management will be useful to win challenges of which we know nothing off. To ensure that objective, I have to be sure that I mind the team to the task, and it starts with me. ''
Metang nodded and approved what Sneasel said and quietly looked at him while Sneasel continued to arrange the room and move furniture around.
ooo
Metang had a pleased look in his eyes, watching toward the camera.
''Following this leadership should augment my odds of short-term victory by 40% and My overall victory odds by 52%. Those are good stats...As for Sneasel himself, i am convinced at around 89% that he'll make it far in this game...''
ooo
Sneasel was nonchalantly sharpening his claws in front of the camera, thinking about how big he should make his library. He then remembered why he was there and that some people might want to use the confessional.
''An interesting fellow, this metang. He makes for the perfect Lieutenant...maybe I should rouse him for the role...'' He said as he hopped out of the confessional, looking for a proper piece of lumber to start on his library.
oooooo*
*BOOM!*
An explosion of sand rocketed the beach area. Then a second one and a third one. A wave of pressure toward the ocean rocked the gentle morning waves like a wrecking ball. Finishing the routine, a black and blue dog-like pokemon landed on his feet, panting with exertion with a focused look on his face. The area around him looked like a mine field, but he didn't care. He needed that strenght, so he knew he would have to work hard for it. To be useful to himself, and to his teammates without giving to much information about himself was the way to go in his mind.
''To grow stronger, the body knows no fatigue, no hunger...'' he muttered before bowing and sitting down and initiating a meditation period.
** On the Zacian's girl side **
Fraxure was still sleeping, her loud snore making it evident. However, on the other side of the dormitory, a beautiful figure was gazing outside the window, enjoying the caress of the sun on her frigid fur. Ninetales was pensive, thinking about her new alliance member. She was happy to have secured him, but she was already thinking about adding maybe one more person to her small court. She didn't know those contestant very well and had went to Wartortle early because he looked strong and was already weak to her charms. Deciding that nothing would come from simply pondering in the morning light, she decided to leave the room to have a walk outside. On her way out, she saw the round tables and the random desk that seemed to have been arranged earlier and remarked the laurier crown on said table. Shrugged before heading outside and walking toward the forrest for a morning stroll.
ooo
''An interesting set up back there, seems that our ''Leader'' is taking himself seriously... Maybe i could bring him under my sway...'' The ice fox pondered quickly in front of the camera.''
ooo
* * On the Zamazenta's side * *
Haunter, being a ghost type, didn't really need to sleep. Sometimes, the comfort brought by the blissful nothingness that sleep brought was appealing and the specter certainly didn't pass on this luxury from times to times. But now that she was wide awake, her mind was racing. She had already tried a few things during these games, from seduction to overhelming power. It had been interesting to see how the others had reacted. Nipping a budding relationship had been rather pleasurable and listening to Sandile's motivations had sharpened her need for negative emotions. She was a ghost type after all, and nothing empowered her more than feeding on negative energy. She was floating around the camp, the vivid air both invigorating her and disgusting her at the same time. It lacked tension, but she knew that more would be on its way the furter this game went.
ooo
Haunter was staring pensively at the camera, morphing into her haunter/Loppuny form. If she couldn't allure the contestant much, she knew that she could at least charm the viewers. The now alluring specter let a small laugh when she imagined the effect that she would have on those watching.
''Hohoho, seems that I will have many subject to study and feed from during this game. I was picked by a nutcase, but he has a good heart. I am sure that I can bring the worst in him, like everyone here...in time.'' She said before laughing loudly and vanishing.
ooo
Monferno woke up with boundless energy and only had one thing on his mind. He just wanted to know what was the next challenge so he could prove his worth and the worth of his zamazentas. The agile monkey Pokemon jumped on top of the Zamazenta's shack and inhaled. It was going to be good!
''ZAMAZENTAS! TODAY IS A NEW DAY! TODAY WE FUCK OVER THE ARISTOCRATS AND WE BRING HOME THE LAURIERS!'' Shouted the fire/fighting monkey at the top of his lungs. His booming voice made the nearby bird pokemon fly away in fright, especially when Monferno added a solid Flamethrower shot at the sky to punctuate his vows.
Now was a good time to wonder what the rest of the camp thought of that heh?
Whoever was fully asleep jumped in fright in their bunk, hitting their head pretty hard aside of those who were already out...like Makuhita who was on another beach, thinking wistfully about a certain transport pokemon.
Said transport pokemon who immediately upon waking up, remembered what had happened the day before and slumped back in her bed in sadness.
Riolu opened both eyes and upon seeing the over eager monkey landing back on top of the shack after his jump , chuckled softly before closing his eyes once more to resume his meditation.
Scyther shot out of his barracks with his visor on, his scythes sharpened and alert wondering which enemy was coming to attack them. He sweatdropped once he realized that it was his liege that was acting so brashly.
Monferno didn't have the time to regret his endeavors since almost immediately Hattrem rushed him and tried to slap him silly with her pigtails, barely followed by a panicked Yamask trying to hold her back.
''You uncounth fiend, don't you know how to behave properly around a lady!'' She screamed indignantly as she relentlessly tried to slap him. Monferno just laughed merrily as he dodged and parried the slaps, earning a whistle of admiration from Roserade and Haunter. His merry mood was contageous and everyone watching the antics laughed.
This moment of morning hilarity was soon cut short from the booming voice of Tapu Koko resonating around the camp. ''ALRIGHT YOU LOT, BREAKFAST IS SERVED AND CHALLENGE IS INCOMING, ALL HEAD TOWARD THE SOSEI HALL. I REPEAT, ALL HEAD TOWARD CAFETERIA OF SOSEI HALL!''
The contestants...minus one, all made their way there, two things clear in their mind. The first was that they were indeed hungry and the second was that the games were finally underway for real.
The Cafeteria part of the hall building was pretty huge, as if it was made to host legendary sized pokemon instead of regular, run of the mill pokemon. It was pretty much shaped like a dojo, probably to fit Chef Throh's personality. There was indeed tables and chairs where they could sit on, but most of the eating area was small pillows and the floor was made entirely by tatamis. On the walls of the eating area, many Judo traditional sayings were depicted. It seemed that for the chef, principles were everything and it did create a very rustic, displined atmosphere that the Chef maybe counted on to keep peace in his cafeteria. When all the Pokemon were seated, chatting among themselves quietly, Tapu koko and Mesprit appeared in a flash of light.
''Welcome to the Cafeteria, contestants... I hope that you enjoyed your first night in your shacks.'' Tapu Koko asked while making an aerial pirouette, demonstrating his enthousiasm.
Some contestants grumbled, since they had been woken up rather rudely by the Zamazenta's leader.
Croagunk took in on himself to answer for the majority. ''Damn Monkey be shouting like a Lunatic at las 8 of the morning, shit is annoying bro, horrific!'' He replied, shooting a glare at the Fire/Fighting. A few of the others nodded at this.
Bidoof rolled his eyes, deadpan. ''As if we needed another lunatic in this show. The yellow fucker was enough!'' He muttered loud enough for a certain Co-Host to hear.
Tapu Koko twitched, his form cracking with electricity before it dissapeared. As the guardian deity looked around in confusion, his gazed crossed Mesprit's, whose eyes were glowing in the red light of imprison. Tapu Koko grumbled as he shot the beaver an annoyed look. ''Just you wait, dirtbag'' he muttered menacingly to Bidoof who rolled his eyes, not really feeling threatened.
Mesprit took this occasion to further the order of the day. ''Before I continue, I should bring those who arent there... or should I say, the one that isn't there.'' She said before teleporting a still sleeping Grotle in front of them. The grass starter was sleeping so peacefully that Mesprit almost cooed in front of this adorable sight. Tapu Koko however wanted none of that tauros shit. He quickly moved behind grotle and zapped him, making him do the jump. He landed hard on his feets however, triggering a small earthquake due to his weight. Tapu Koko cackled in glee; ''You gotta wake up fatso! You won't last long in this game if you keep that up." Chided the electric fairy type as some contestants couldn't help but chuckle at his predicament.
The grass tortoise was so lost he didn't immediately respond...imitating a certain pink and white tipped Pokemon.
"Huh..?''
Wartortle started laughing loudly at the tortoise's expense, quickly followed by Croagunk, Monferno, Luxio and a few others.
Hattrem looked less pleased and was barely held back by the timid Yamask, thus preventing the boys to be err...forcefully reminded not to be too loud around Her, especially this early in the morning,
Sneasel frowned dissaprovingly at the poor grass type. ''You'd think that this is a bit too soon to be that relaxed... I wonder if it is his nature...?'' He inquired pensively as the poor Pokemon blinked several times in confusion, his lost expression drawing forth even more laughter.
ooo
The Grove Pokemon was staring sheepishly at the camera.
''Hey I'm sorry. I'm a big dude with a slow pace...I need my sleep and I can be pretty deep in... Couldn't they be more considerate?'' He lamented sadly
ooo
His phalanx at rest, Falinks shook his head dissaprovingly. ''GET YOUR SORRY ASS UP OR WE'LL THROW YOU IN THE HOLE BACK HOME!'' He blurted out violently at the poor Grotle who jumped in fright yelling ''Okay Okay I get it!''
More laughter erupted in the crowd, with Wartortle commenting. ''If that's our competition, might as well give us the prize already!'' He said as he ran his paws in Alolan Ninetales's fur, making the latter shiver equally in pleasure and disgust. She quickly got over that though and nodded, her snout raised in disdain.
Dunsparce simply looked at her teammate and shuddered.
ooo
''I dont want to get on his bad side... he could kill me...'' She said, visibly shaking.
ooo
Monferno simply shook his head and let out a powerful laugh before jumping near his teammate.
''Don't worry about them my guy, you're fine.'' He said , tapping his back understingly.
Grotle smiled and nodded.
Tapu Koko grew a bit impatient and activated Electric Surge, making the hair on those with fur stick out like furballs because of the static electricity. ''Enough chatter from the peanut gallery. We have to explain the next challenge'' He said as Mesprit gently patted his back to soothe him a bit. The bait was too easy not to take however...and a certain beaver Pokemon wouldn't let it slide.
''Aww...look at the rooster trying to assert dominance...cute.'' He commented cockily as Tapu Koko looked at him menacingly, his paws/right slowly raising with intent to hurt.
''ANYWAY! The next challenge is a rather simple one. It's a relay race.'' Mesprit announced, making some of them growl and some of them cheer.
''A relay race? My speed shall lead us to victory!'' Scyther said, raising and lowering his newly reconstructred wood spear on the groud loudly.
''A relay huh? In tha hood, you gotta be fast if you wanna last yo! This should be a blast!'' Rapped Croagunk, his telltale head bobbing showing that he was in the mood alright.
Riolu simply smiled, his eyes closed. A challenge where he could exert himself was never bad.
Lapras looked sadly at Makuhita, than and herself in sadness, not knowing how she could muster the motivation to participate.
Haunter simply stared at them, one of her hands-claws under her chin.
Monferno looked at her. ''What's up claws?'' He asked, hoping toward her.
Haunter looked suprised by the sudden nickname? ''Claws?'' She pondered as she looked at him in wonder.
Monferno looked on the side sheepishly...''Dunno, it sounded fitting...Anyway, you look pensive...''He pressed.
Haunter was slightly impressed. She hadn't expected her physical nutjob of a leader to be perceptive. ''Well, leader, I think that the challenge is a bit too simple...'' She said, her gaze turning back to the hosts.
Monferno cocked his head... ''Really? I for one don't mind a simple challenge. A relay race looks like something I could never lose in. Everything to crush the team of that aristocrat.'' He blurted competitively, his tail flame burning brighter in excitement. Haunter sweatdropped, then smirked playfully.
000
''Not exactly a simpleton, but, not too far from it I suppose?'' The Specter said in slight amusement.
000
Sneasel also was sharing the Haunter's musing. He had read a little bit about these kind of shows and knew that it couldn't be that simple. After a quick glance at the crowd and seeing that nobody seemed to have the will to ask a question about it, he raised his hand.
Mesprit smiled and acknowledged the sharp claw pokemon. ''What is it Sneasel?'' She asked as the crowd grew a bit quiet.
Sneasel sighed and adopted a pensive expression; ''I feel like you haven't said everything about this challenge. It's too simple... In my readings, I have learned that most of the time, every challenge have some sort of twist in them to keep them interesting or unexpected... So I dare ask... what's the twist?'' He eloquently inquired, making some of his team eyes widen in realization. What he had asked made a lot of sense. Behind him, a steel/psychic type was also staring at the hosts, his placid gaze hiding an almost feverish activity withing his circuits...
ooo
Hmmm Interesting. There was around 99% Chance that our leader point that out. I expect now the host to explain it. Calculating the odds of the component of the relay race will take some time, but it is interesting nonetheless...''Rambled the Iron Claw Pokemon in his monotone voice.
ooo
Tapu Koko grinned at his intervention. ''Glad you asked, smart guy. There are several twist in this here challenge. The first one is that this is a five part relay race. The slower team loses and sends someone home. Isn't that precious?'' He said, cackling with glee.
Mesprit then took back the spotlight. ''Indeed Koko. However, this isn't all. The opposite team chooses the lineup in this challenge, meaning that you'll have to be strategic in who you select from the other team.'' She explained further, making most of them gasp. Haunter in particular enjoyed that twist, secretly relishing the shock and apprenhension in the air.
''In addition, you can only vote for those who will participate in the challenge. That keeps it fair right?'' Revealed Tapu Koko, pirouetting enthousiastically in the air.
''Now you know what to expect. Finish your meal and meet up near the forest area. You have 30 minutes. Don't make us wait or suffer the consequences of testing your host's patience...'' Mesprit half said, half threatened. Koko and Mesprit then vanished, leaving the contestant to themselves.
Sneasel and Monferno shared looks, and one could feel the tension between them.
''Seems that we finally start this war. Prepare yourself, Aristocrat!'' Passionately said Monferno
Sneasel didn't flinch. ''You overeager primate. You know that our team shall be victorious.'' He shot back, not lacking in passion.
The staredown lasted a few more seconds before Riolu merely tugged at Sneasel, leading him to his team without opening his eyes or saying a word. Monferno was similarily dragged by a fantomatic hand toward his team, Haunter rolling her eyes at how hotblooded her leader was acting.
''Calm down hotshot. We need to figure out who to choose from the other team and eat our meal. You can measure your might later...'' She said as Monferno sat on the ground, his gaze deep in thought.
On the other side of the dining hall, Sneasel was already hard at work, his claws mindlessly scratching the seat he was on. He barely touched his berry platter as he was so deep in thoughts.
Wartortle walked up to him , Alolan Ninetales in tow. ''Well, who cares about who we choose... We can always make sure that they lose...'' He proposed, a mean glint in his eye. Behind him, Alolan Ninetales rolled her eyes.
Sneasel looked at the turtle. ''I am quite certain that sabotage isn't allowed in these type of games. I would rather not lose via disqualification.'' He reasoned calmly before turning to Metang. ''Who do you think we should choose...''
The Iron claw pokemon vibrated a little before responding. ''There is a 98% Chance that the challenge will comport obstacles and different environment. We know little of the other team, but I can tell for sure that a few of their members do not look athletic enough to accomplish the task within reasonable parameters...'' He replied with a monotone voice.
Sneasel nodded, his train of thoughts having followed a similar reasoning. '' I see. Do tell...'' He urged, which the Metal Claw Pokemon gracefully obliged.
Wartortle frowned.
ooo
''That guy really thinks that sabotage isn't allowed in this game... It won't be easy influencing him...'' He mused in frustration.
ooo
The rest of the breakfast didn't comport any more incident, and nobody wanted to find out what Mesprit could do if they made her wait. They did discuss about the best players to design on the other team to ''ensure'' their victory. They all made it to the designated place , ready to rumble.
''I like the look on your faces maggots, now Leaders, do you have your designations?'' Tapu Koko asked as he pirouetted in the air, clearly impatient to know who would be participating in the first team challenge.
Sneasel confidently stepped in, ready to disclose his team choices; ''The team we designate is Dunsparce, Grotle, Yamask, Sandile and Roserade.''
Mesprit smirked. ''Some interesting choices indeed. Now Monferno, your turn.'' She invited the fire/fighting, who more or less shouted his own list; ''RED CARP, KOALKART, BEAVER, ICE CUBE, DRAGON JUNKIE. YOU GUYS ARE GOING TO GET WASHED!'' He boomed , making Hattrem flinch and rush him with full intent to silence...forever.
''You damn monkey, too loud!'' She screeched as her pigtails glowed in the light of double slap. The maneuver was futile as the monkey caught her rather easily before unexpectedly hugging her, patting her head in what could only be described to be an attempt at being soothing. ''There there witch hat, you know we've gotta have passion in this game...'' He said, chuckling.
The psychic fairy type was now torn between her innate urge to slap him silly and a furious blush at how strong the monkey had to be to stop her slapping rampage. The hug had surprised her enough for her to calm down, push herself out of her leader's grasp and look to the side, her face pink in embarassment.
ooo
The small witch was looking away from the camera...''Wh..what was I supposed to do? He's so damn loud...it's annoying. But at the same time..he's so strong...ahhhh!''' She fangirled before the camera was overcomed by static due to the witch releasing a burst of psychic energy in her panic.''
ooo
Sandile had a mean glint in his eyes. He knew why he was selected and grinded his teeths. He would prove his worth in this challenge.
ooo
''I know why that stupid ferret and his team selected me. They must think i'm so easy to beat. I'll fucking chew their team open for treating me like this...'' Muttered with scorn a very pissed croc.
ooo*
Tapu Koko made another pirouette, making all eyes go to him immediately. ''This Relay race will comport 5 phases; Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Aether. You will be given this lovely statue depicting me and Mesprit. It will serve as your relay baton. You have your 5 designed participants. You'll have to dispatch them in the most optimal order. Then, it's all instinct. As they say, the elements rage 5 times.'' He further explained, making the 10 contestants eyes widen. This was rather elaborate for a second challenge.
Mesprit continued in the same breath. ''We also have invited some friends that will evidently try to hamper your progress. This is the Island of Power. You have to prove your worth in every challenge. I can only ask what the other team thinks of you if you have been selected to participate hehehe...'' She muttered playfully, hiding her smirk with a chinese style hand fan.
Tapu Koko looked at Mesprit oddly. ''Where you'd get that from?'' He asked, making sure to hide how cute and coquette he found the emotion Pokemon to be with the accessory.
Mesprit chuckled, she was seeing right through him. After all, she was the emotion Pokemon. ''In Uxie's collection. We pretty much share everything, my sisters and I, so I found it interesting. '' She explained before pointing to the contestant. ''Why don't we let our beloved contestant choose their order and get on with the challenge hmm?'' She proposed as the electric co-host pirouetted back to the contestant.
''You heard the lady, now get on with it, and Pronto please!'' Koko directed, electricity cracking on his form, betraying his excitement.
Bidoof seeing this couldn't help but roll his eyes. ''What age are you, 5?'' He jabbed at the legendary who looked away briefly, blushing before frowning and clapping back. ''I aint. I am just impatient to see how badly your ass will be kicked.'' He chided.
The Beaver didn't deter however. ''Aww, is the poor Kokoriko afraid of being showed up again?'' He added, making some contestants chuckle, some of them shuffling away from the normal type as Tapu Koko launched thundershocks at him, missing badly as he ran around, laughing.
Sneasel cracked a smile but soon realized something. ''Hey Mesprit!''
The emotion fairy moved to his position. ''Yes, what is it Sneasel?'' She inquired.
''I just realized that you havent told us what exactly the selected Pokemon have to do to clear the different sections... How are we supposed to plan effectively?'' He inquired pensively.
''A very astute observation Sneasel. You really like having all the information you can get do you?'' She complimented the dark type.
Sneasel didn't quite know how to take that compliment. Mesprit's kind hearted smile was also making it difficult for him to be at ease for some reason.
Tapu Koko smirked and waved a paw. Suddenly all ten contestants dissapeared, leaving the rest of the teams shocked.
''Wha?'' Babbled Monferno.
Luxio was so shocked that he released a burst of electricity that shocked most contestants. Let's say that they werent pleased.
''WHERE THE FUCK DID THEY GO TO HUH?'' Shouted Wartortle, who immediatly had Hattrem on his tail, slapping him away due to the turtle Pokemon's outburst.
Haunter turned to the two hosts with a frown on her face, back in her ghostly lopunny morph. ''Host, Explain please.'' She demanded.
Sneasel also turned to Mesprit, who'se smile had devolved into an almost playful smirk. ''Oops...Seems that my Co-Host didn't really had the patience to let you choose your proper order.'' She explained before teleporting away, reappearing next to Tapu Koko.
''Better hope that your teammates can adapt well , if not, one of them will be walking the plank straight to hell.'' He cackled before dissapearing in a flash of lighting, bringing Mesprit with him.
Sneasel looked at the sky where the host had been not too long ago. ''I am not sure if I am fond of these kind of surprises...'' He muttered darkly, frowning about the lack of strategy.
Haunter floated next to Monferno. ''You and Me both...'' She muttered before slapping the Monkey Pokemon out from his stupor.
The Alolan Ninetales yawned... '' Well, if we do not have anything to do, i'll be going back to the cabins...'' She said as she turned to leave.
''I'll come too...just in case some bullshit happens.'' Rapidly informed Wartortle as he turned to follow the sexy fox.
Riolu opened one eye as he saw them leave the forest area and closed it, grunting softly.
ooo
The blue jackal pup had his eyes closed in the confessional but you could feel his disgust.
''What lecherous aura...'' He simply said before the camera turned static again.
ooo
Metang however didn't seem too interested in laying down and doing nothing.
''I'll scan the area and find the course. These host did not stipulate that we couldn't monitor the progress of our team so i'll be following the course. I'll send my updates to Riolu which can convey them to you. This procedure has a 75% of being viable. Permission to proceed or desist?'' He asked with his monotonous voice.
Sneasel smiled. ''This is an excellent idea mate. Proceed.'' He approved before the metal hulk hovered in the sky and left the area.
The haunter smirked upon hearing this proposal and decided to apply it to her own team, knowing that their junkie of a leader would probably not think of it. ''Let me do that too...'' She proposed to Monferno who turned to her and blushed hard upon seeing her rather alluring Lopunny morph form.
''Sure.. I'm pretty sure that this could help.. uhh whoever right? Go..right ahead!'' He stuttered, not knowing where to place his eyes before turning away in embarrassment.
Haunter chuckled at his shyness and sunk into the ground.
The fire/fighting stared for a long time at the spot where the haunter had been just a few moments earlier and sighed..
ooo*
''I have the weirdest Captain's attention right now... I don't know how to feel about it...'' Whined the monkey to the camera, his back facing it while visibly covering himself.''
ooo
The Haunter in her Lopunny morph was cackling. ''Seems that I have retained much of that Lopunny attraction even after my passing. I mean...I knew that...but seeing him all flustered restored some of my confidence in my sex appeal. Maybe I won't get fully outshined by the slutty looking fox.'' She said before dissapearing, the laugh that trailed behind her making frost appear on the camera.
ooo
Most of Monferno's team wandered in and out of the forest area, chilling moderately since they weren't going to participate in the challenge.
Makuhita came next to the fire monkey and sat down, making said Monkey smile. At least someone was showing some team spirit in that ragdoll team.
''I'd say that no matter what happens, i'm cool with it, but i'd rather not lose'' Said the pudgy fighter.
''Yeah bro. Let's hope that our guys out there can do the work'' Replied the Fire Monkey.
** At the challenge course **
A large grassy tortoise was peacefully dozing. He didn't exactly know when he had arrived there, but the cozy, comforting murmur of the forest quickly made him feel at ease, so he layed down and fell asleep.
000
''Gotta enjoy your rest while one can...'' Explained groggily the Grotle before laying down in the confessional
000
Bidoof rolled his eyes upon seeing that. ''A challenge is about to start, and he's fast asleep. I wonder if he's that confident... or that lazy.'' He groaned, actually slightly envying his carefree nature.
At that moment, both host appeared. ''I do not know, but I sure hope he's ready to rumble, and so i hope you are, little beaver.'' Replied Mesprit with a huge smile on her face.
''AHHHHHH!'' Wailed Grotle when the electric/fairy shocked him awake with a light thundershock.
Tapu Koko chuckled. ''I don't think i'll ever grow tired of doing that...''
Bidoof rolled his eyes. ''What you have something for shocked Pokemon behinds now?''
Tapu Koko's head snapped to him in an instant. ''Oh, you were there too, fangface?''
Bidoof opened his mouth to reply...and immediately closed it upon seeing Mesprit's gaze.
Bidoof's eyes widened.
ooo
''By Golly...How can something that cute command such terror with just a gaze?'' Asked a terrified beaver, his eyes wide.
ooo
''Now that we have control of our challenge back, let's give you your batons.'' Mesprit said with a sickly sweet voice that made all of them feel a bit queasy in their stomachs. Both tried to grab the baton the best they could...with Grotle taking the baton in his mouth and bidoof just standing on his hind legs and grabbing the statue with his front paws.
''Once you hear the Bang, you can go!'' Tapu Koko said as he pointed a pistol coming from hammerspace in the air and Fired.
None of them moved for several seconds.
This kept going for a bit. Tapu Koko chuckled. Mesprit face palmed.
Exasperated, Bidoof looked back at the hosts. ''Any time now?'' He asked a bit rudely, his back paws fidgeting stressfully.
Tapu Koko merely showed his still relatively fuming pistol. Bidoof eye's widened. ''Oh Shit!'' He shouted before running on the earth course like his life depended on it.
Only then Grotle understood that the race had already started, and with a lumbering pace due to his weight...took off behind Bidoof.
Once they were out of sight, Tapu Koko pulled out a Walkie.
''Take it away Z, you're up!'' He said maliciously to the Pokemon on the other side of the line.
''Roger..'' Was the only reply.
A few Moment later, cries of agony and panic started to be heard on the course, echoing eerily all around the camp.
Tapu Koko and Mesprit smiled. This was going to be a fun one.
Back at the forest area, all contestant were either looking at the sky, chatting among themselves or huddling around the leaders in wait of updates on the field.
Next to Sneasel, Riolu was hard at work, his legs crossed in a meditative pose, receptive to the information Metang would provide them.
Said Sneasel was not exactly pleased to have no contact with his members. He was hoping that they could take care of themselves, but it still very much annoyed him.
''Riolu, no updates yet?'' He asked impatiently.
The Jackal pup lifted a paw, signaling him to be quiet.
''Riolu, this is metang, do you copy?'' A voice echoed in his mind.
The Jackal Pup smirked. There it was at last. ''Yeah I get you metang. What's the situation down there?'' Replied the Riolu telepathically.
The Iron claw Pokemon looked down and shuddered. ''I'd say not terrible. There is a 50% chance that Bidoof gets knocked out before he reaches the next Pokemon. Seemingly at random, the earthy soil just erupts right under him. There is also that green exploding rain like light that explodes on contact. I have dubbed that phenomenon the Thousand Arrows. The explosion from under is very similar to earth power... it's as if the land is angry about being threaded on...'' Explained the metal hulk before dodging yet another shower of green light.
Back with the group, Sneasel sighed. So far, it seemed that his teammate was holding his own. ''Thanks for the update and continue to monitor please.'' He thanked the Jackal pup who relayed to Metang
''We can only hope that he can make it'' He mused, visibly worried.
Haunter, who was following the progress of Grotle for her team wasn't happy to see him struggle. She wanted to help him but didn't know if she was allowed to interfere. A wicked part of her however was throuroughly enjoying seeing and feeling Grotle's struggles as his lumbering pace did not allow him to avoid the explosions like his smaller, leaner and more agile opponent. She could only watch as Bidoof finished the earth course and giving his baton to a waiting Penguin.
Bidoof was wide eyed and covered in bruises as he gave Eiscue the baton.
''By Zacian himself, what the hell happened to you?'' he asked the small beaver who flopped on his back, utterly exhausted.
''Those hosts...are crazy... it's a warzone out there...Just go already. We have no time to waste.'' He spurred the penguin on who jumped in the lake. On the other side of it was a Dragon like Pokemon, feet stompin, all tusks bared. She was already impatient ant it was showing.
''Alright, it's my chance to shine. Let's show them what Ice Face can do!'' He said competitively as he started swimming with the baton in his flippers.
Bidoof merely looked at his swimming form. It was slow, but he had secured a good enough adventage to give his team a good chance to win.
Roserade came next to him and offered him a berry. ''Need one?'' She asked gently.
Bidoof smiled. ''It's fine, keep it for your teammate. He's going to need it.''
Roserade looked at the earth course with a worried expression. The fact that she still couldn't see Grotle coming toward them was worrying
000
''I hope he's okay...'' Wished the bouquet Pokemon, her face scrunched in worry.
000
Back in the earth course, Grotle was continuously bombarded by the green light. He tried to put another paw in front, focused on making it to the end when another explosion triggered.
000
Grotle was covered in bandages in the confessional...
''Whyyyyy...''
000
Haunter was following Grotle's struggles in the earth portion. He was almost there, but she still needed to report to her team. Her form shimmered before dissapearing. A few seconds later, a slightly hurt Haunter was still following the land tortoise Pokemon while a clone went to see the leader back at the forest area.
''I've got some news on the race!'' She announced to Monferno upon emerging from the ground, scaring her leader half to death.
''Where did you even come from?'' Asked Makuhita, who was standing and watching the specter distrustfully.
Scyther looked at the ghost form in slight agitation as well. ''Foul specter...'' he muttered under his breath.
Lapras just glared at Haunter from her corner.
Said Haunter smiled, shivering from all the fear and tension she had caused. ''I was on the course , monitoring our team's progress of course..'' She explained, smiling a bit too wickedly.
This smile scared Monferno. '' You didn't do anything to the other team did you?'' He asked wearily
Haunter put a pensive claw under her chin. ''I didn't think about it, but if you want me too...'' She insinuated softly.
Monferno quickly shook his head. ''No, no, we'll be fine. So how are they out there?'' He asked.
Haunter took her Lopunny morph and sat near her leader, laying an ear around his shoulder. Her smile fell ''We're not doing well right now. Grotle's on the earth section, and he's getting his ass handed to him.'' She informed them, making most of them gasp.
''Damn, that's not chill at all...'' Mused Makuhita, his brows frowning further.
''Isn't there anything we can do at all?'' Asked Lapras from her spot a little further from everyone else.
Falinks and Scyther were already getting pumped up. ''We must go help our comrade. '' They decided before they were brought to the ground, courtesy of Tapu Koko.
''Oh Hell no you don't. You interfere with the challenge, you are automatically eliminated, you got that?'' he playfully informed them before dissapearing in a brief flash of light.
Monferno sighed. He had wanted to go to Grotle's aid, but already he knew that they couldn't. He turned to Haunter. ''Can you go back there and help him...subtly...'' He pleaded to the specter.
Said Haunter smiled, caressing his cheek with her phantomatic ear. ''Sure...'' she said with a rather sultry voice before she dissapeared, cackling in glee.
Monferno blushed hard before looking at the sky, trying to wrench his mind away from the alluring sensasion of his cheek being caressed.
000
Monferno was still blushing. "Is it normal that i feel attracted to a ghost?"
000
Back at the course, Haunter batoned Grotle finally making it to the end of the course. The land tortoise was greeted by Roserade.
"Here, take this! You did well coming through that crazy minefield." She warmly greeted the fellow grass type and offered him a sitrus berry.
"Much appreciated...I felt like the world was out to get me in there. Who could have done that even?" Pondered the turtle as he flopped on his belly, Utterly spent and drained fron all will to move.
"Well I hope that i'll have an easier time. She pondered before looking at the Ice Penguin suddenly being attacked by a large gyarados.
She sweatdropped.
000
"Those hosts don't mess around do they..." Said a rather weary Roserade"
000
''Get back here you runt!'' Screamed an enraged Gyarados as he launched a violent, ferocious Hyper Beam at Eiscue.
''Nope, Nope, Nope!'' Refused Eiscue as he swerved and dodged the large leviathan's beam of destruction by a hair before continuing to swim at full speed, his baton secured between his flippers.
A trailing behind them was Roserade. Being a Grass type, she was able to conjure a large leaf to ride on, not unlike a boat. Using her Grass knot, she was generating some current and was crossing the lake that way. She had hoped to simply slide by as the Gyarados seemed very intent in making her opponent his meal of the day. As it would be, the large water/flying did not show such complacency.
The Gyarados saw the bouquet Pokemon sliding on her leaf , trying her best to be as subtle as possible. The beast snarled.
*Flashback*
Tapu Koko was seen in front of a mean looking Gyarados, eerily similar to the beast chasing the contestants. Said beast did not seem to be really on board with what Tapu Koko was offering.
''So you want me to act as a disruptive force for your little show, yet a few PKs is all you are offering? I oughta drown you.'' He snorted derisively.
Tapu Koko twitched in indignation. He had come to him since he was said to be the most mean and dangerous Gyarados of Mele Mele Island. He was the Guardian's for Arceus's sake, normal Pokemon shouldn't have the guts to resist him.
Oddly enough, this fearlessness was what Tapu Koko wanted as well. He needed to find a way to convince the Gyarados, fast.
''Then what is it that you would want?'' He asked gruffly, trying to match the Gyarados's aggressivity. He couldn't afford to look weak in front of regular Pokemon, despite how actually intimidated he felt by the Gyarados.
The large Levianthan was taken aback. It seemed that the rumors about Mele Mele's guardian being a fickle, childish protector weren't entirely true. He had a spine. Honestly, the sea dog had seen it all, so even earthly possessions were slightly beyond his desires right now. However, there was something he was interested in. An old tale known by only a few Gyaradoses in the world and observed in even less Gyaradoses. A power so vile and overwelhiming that it consumed the very air around them. But in exchange, the boost in power, intellect, durability and longevity was immense. Almost dreamed up. An Evolution, beyond evolution. A remnant of when the humans still walked this earth.
This could be his chance. ''I want the power granted by the Levias's stone.'' He said darkly.
Tapu Koko smiled. This was a rather easy task for him. ''Work good for us and I'll make sure you get your stone.'' He replied as he extended his wingtip. Smiling greatly, the Gyarados extended his tail, wrapping it around the fairy's wing in a manly handshake.
* End Flashback *
''I ain't going to botch my first job here on this shitty island. Eat This!'' The sea serpent shouted before jumping mightlily out of the water, his tail glowing blue then changing to water. Roserade and Eiscue's eyes widened as the subsequent impact launched a watery shockwave that rocked them good. The impact was so fierce that a mini tidal wave was created. The beast let out a terrifying roar of triumph. It felt good to rip things apart again.
Roserade was knocked clear off her leaf, the impact sending her a little further back and into the lake, stunned.
Eiscue's ice rounded face scracked...then after a few seconds...shattered in a thousand piece, horrifying the bouquet Pokemon, the shock of it all making her pass out. Thankfully, before she could sink into the lake and drown, the troubled water currents pushed her form up a rock formation present in the lake
The boastful Leviathan observed's Eiscue's apparent demise with a grin on his face. ''That's one down. Now to take care of the other pest...'' He said, turning toward the rock where Roserade's form was laying.
''Now, you will be next, pretty flower...'' He muttered meanly.
*WHOOOSH*
The Gyarados never knew what hit him.
A little later, Roserade awoke, shivering from the memory of seeing Eiscue's head shattering right before her eyes.
''I..I can't believe that happened...What kind of game is this?'' She said, shivering violently as she brought her knees close to her chest with tears in her eyes. This was madness... That Gyarados had killed a Pokemon in cold blood...
''I...don't feel so good here...'' She said. She stood up and was about to try to head back to camp. As she tried to find the resolve to create another leaf to ride on, she felt something cold fall on top of her white hair. Looking up, she gasped at the sight.
The Entire form of the hulkish Gyarados was encased in ice. She looked on the other side of the lake and saw a penguin wearing a sad, worried expression that melted the Rose's heart immediately. a Good part of the lake was also frozen solid. Immediatly understanding, the Bouquet Pokemon jumped on the ice and slid to the other side of the lake, giving her baton to a waiting yamask.
''Good Luck Yamask...'' She encouraged the timid ghost, who simply nodded before floating away.
Roserade turned to the Pokemon next to her apprehensively. Gone was the ice cube face. Instead, an hilariously oval shaped face with a single hair protruding from the middle of it greeted her gaze. Roserade was dumbfounded.
''Wha...'' Merely muttered the shocked Bouquet Pokemon as she realized that the Penguin Pokemon was deep in thoughts.
ooo
''Compared to my Ice face form, Boku no Noice face wa defense iryoku wa yowai. Dagana, Boky no Speed wa takai. Sono Baka Gyaradosu chance wa Zero.'' Reasoned Eiscue, a flipper under is chin in an amazing imitation of ''The Thinker''
ooo
Roserade stared at the camera. ''What in sweet Shaymin's name was that about?'' She asked perplexively to the camera.
ooo
''Wahahaha, I cannot be stopped!'' Shouted a crazed dragon type as a blush energy engulfed her, propulsing her through the incessant barrage of meteor and fire jets. She broke one meteor , smashed another and speared through a third, all the while cackling with a malovelent glint in her eyes and a deranged look on her face. She felt strong, she felt Powerful, she felt alive. It was an intense and amazing , delirious feeling that she couldn't get enough of. The small drake almost forgot her mission to keep the baton in her stubby arms with the speed she was going at.
Far far behind, a timid gost was barely running, the baton firmly secured in her ghostly grasp. She had tried not to scream in fright every time a meteor landed near her but to no avail, she was scared out of her mind.
ooo
''This...Challenge...is...cra..zy. I want to be with milady Hattrem already...'' Yamask whined to the camera.
ooo
Metang was following the progress of his team. It was amusing to see how headstrongly Fraxure was destroying everything in her path, relentlessly using dragon rush to both go faster and shield herself from the impacts of the meteors she was violently crashing into. She had created a comfortable lead for her team when the dragon junkie racherd a waiting Carkol in the air section. Said Fraxure, upon seeing what the air section looked like, immidiately wanted to launch herself at it but was stopped by an angry, fiery looking bird. That saw, the Metang flashed blue, ready to communicate with his team.
Back at the forest area, as Sneasel's team were anxiously awaiting news from Metang, Riolu finally picked up Metang trying to talk to him. The blue pup raised a single paw, catching everyone's attention. In a flash, they were all huddled around the sharp claw Pokemon. Said sharp claw signaled to Riolu to open up the communication.
Riolu nodded. ''Finally some info. Metang, what's the situation down there?''
''There is a 51% chance that we win this race. Fraxure has performed admirably, litterally breaking her way through the fire course in relay of Eiscue. Her opponent on that course, Yamask, seems paralyzed by fear. I believe that should Carkol clear the air portion relatively quickly enough, which by the way consist at being launched off a cliff and ''glide'' of air currents, the chances of us winning by a conclusive margine raises to 88%.'' Metang explained his robotic voice. It didn't show much, but the Iron Claw Pokemon was rather pleased.
Such news made the Zacian Cheers loudly.
''That's our team!'' cheered Luxio, some sparks flying loose due to his excitement.
''I expected nothing less'' Added Sneasel, smiling confidently in pride.
On the Zamazentas side however, Haunter hadn't delivered much update. Monferno looked at the Zacian grimly. If they were cheering that loudly, it couldn't mean good news for them.
''Please guys, do your best. I don't wanna lose a teammate this early in the competition...'' He prayed softly.
At that moment, a ghostly claw popped from the ground and wrapped around Hattrem, pulling her into the shadows, making her vanish. It left every Zamazentas speechless.
ooo
Monferno's eyes were wide.''What the fuck just happened''
ooo
Scyther was seen putting his visor on. ''A lady has been abducted, I must save her!''
ooo
''Yo that wasn't chill at all...'' Said a terrified Makuhita.
ooo
Haunter had seen Yamask break down due to her fear and anxiety and knew that if they had to have any shot at winning, she would need to snap the ghost girl out of it. Time was of the essence however, so using substitute, she set about to fetch the Pokemon that had been hanging out the most with Yamask. Said Pokemon did not have the time to scream, as the claw wrapped gently but firmly around her mouth.
''Sorry Princess but I'm taking you see your aide. She won't move till you are with her it seems..'' Haunter barely explained to an almost hyperventilating Hattrem as they travelled throught the shadows to reach the downed ghost type.
Hattrem wasn't exactly pleased at being manhandled this ''roughly'' but realized that trying to slap a ghost was.. silly. Beside, she was worried about Yamask anyway.
When they arrived, the sight they were treated to was a sorry one. Yamask was shivering, her mask held tight close to her chest and her baton even more. She was sourrounded by a sea of fire from all side. Completely paralyzed in fear, the small ghost girl was weeping in fright and misery. Haunter momentarily licked her lips at the attractive prospect of feeding on her negative emotions that were pouring out of Yamask like an all you can eat buffet, but rescinded, ultimately being more concerned about Yamask's well being and their goal of winning the race. Turning to Hattrem, who had emerged in the meantime, she pointed to yamask, saying: ''Go help her! It's your friend after all.''
Hattrem nodded and floated posthaste toward Yamask.
ooo
Haunter was looking at her long nails in the confessional. '' Holy Mew, two days in and they already exude such exquisite emotions... It took everything I had not to lap up that yamask... But alas, we still need to win. '' She muttered sadly as the camera frosted up.
ooo
Yamask was so lost in her fright that she had lost any will to move. Moreover, she had been staring at her facemask which reminded of her sorry state even more.
''Ever since I was alive, I was alwyas so weak and sickly. Now, even as I wanted to show what I can do...I can't move'' She lamented as another meteor fell near her, rocking the ground and fueling the raging inferno even more.
While the downed ghost type was still looking down, another meteor, the trajectory dead set to hit her.
Haunter gasped; ''Not good! YAMASK, GET OUT OF THE WAY! '' She shouted in fright.
Yamask looked up in the direction of the voice and saw the huge rock descending toward her! She merely smiled in acceptance. ''At least, I won't be a burden to anyone in this life.'' She said as she closed her eyes.
Hattrem watched the scene in horror and got angry soon after. ''HELL NO!'' She shouted as she sent an absolutely humongus psybeam that shattered it in many many pieces. The witch teen landed near Yamask soon afterward.
Said Ghost girl lifted her face toward her savior. ''Milad...'' She started before being silenced by a loud slap.
''You stupid ghost...never, EVER, do that to me again... If Haunter hadn't been there...what would have happened huh?'' She shouted angrily.
The Yamask looked at her with a confused look on her face. ''But..I...'' She stated before being slapped again into silence. This time however, Yamask saw Hattrem's face.
Her eyes were full of tears.
''You can't just talk my ears off, open up to me, be my friend, and accept dying off a stupid meteor just because you are struggling in a challenge! Get up, finish the challenge and come back to me! I won't let you argue or give up on your dream.' She shouted as she picked her hand up and ran ahead.
Yamask could only stare at her in amazement as she was more or less dragged by Hattrem.
Above them, Haunter didn't know if she was to smile warmly or gag with disgust. But she was happy that she gave her team a chance to win.
After all...
Haunter hated to lose.
ooo
It is rare that I do something like this... feeding on those sweet negative emotions is so much better... ordinarily. But seeing show much tow Pokemon can bond in only a few hours is fascinating...'' Haunter said with a chuckle
ooo
''Milady is so...'' Yamask said with tears and stars in her eyes.
ooo
''I wasn,t about to let it end like this. I...grew fond of her.'' Justified Hattrem with a pout.
ooo
Tapu Koko was livid. He was about to descend on Hattrem's path and block it but Mesprit stopped him.
''WHY? THEY BROKE THE RULES!'' Angrily protested the island guardian.
A few seconds later, the electric/fairy type found himself pinned to a tree by a tremendous amount of psychic energy. To Tapu Koko, it felt as if Primal Groudon was sitting on him.
''Ooof'' Wheezed the Poor legendary.
''This was such a great display of friendship! Ruin that and i'll kill you!'' replied Mesprit, a tissue and some chocolate next to her, her pretty gaze strained by tears.
Tapu Koko sweatdropped. ''You're just a sucker for emotional situations.''
This comment granted him and even heavier psychic pressure from Mesprit.
Back to the course, a very dizzy Carkol passed his baton to his waiting teammate, a fearful and frightened red carp. Being thrown of a cliff and pushed up by jet streams certainly wasn't his favorite style of racing. His low coal supply, almost completely gone via erupting for basically the entire course was a good testament to that.
ooo
The coal kart like Pokemon was seen shivering in the confessional, mumbling about the miltank's floor and how he'd never leave it again.
ooo
Soon after being picked up, the pair formed by Hattrem and Yamask arrived at the air relay, where a mean croc was impatiently waiting for them.
''You took way too much time!'' He shouted angruly, making both gals wince. As Hattrem gave the crook the baton held by Yamask, they both looked at tache other before giggling.
The small croc snarled. ''What are you two giggling about like morons?''
Neither of them responded.
...
...
...
*SLAP*
ooo
The Sandile was glaring at the camera, sitting funny due to heavy backside discomfort. ''Stupid bitches, stupid cliff...'' he muttered scornfully.
ooo
The Aether course was represented by intense light. It was in fact so luminous that it made it hard to navigate. In addition, and intense wind was blowing, rendering the passage difficult and navigation even more tedious.
Dunsparce, the last relay of team Monferno, was hovering as fast as she could, her pseudo snake like features granting him a better ability to navigate the path of light. The constant frontwind was slowing her down considerably however.
''This is ridiculous! How am I supposed to fight this wind.'' She groaned as she kept advancing forward, straining her body in the process.
Magikarp however, was not fearing any better. The path was blinding him and the wind acted like a solid wall due ot his weak physical strenght. To him, there was no illusion why he was in this position. In his life, it seemed that he was always put in a position to fail.
*Flashback*
A small magikarp was seen trying to climb a waterfall like his brethens. yet he couldn,t and feel to the pondds below, never to see his original family ever again.
Another instance where he was a the school for the foster child institute he ended up enrolling in after he was taken in by kind Milotic and Whishcash parents. He drew lots for the local triathlon and was given the land portion. Of course he couldn't switch.
He was dead last that day.
Many more exemples like those flashed in his mind, as he struggled to make any progress at all.
*End flashback*
Metang was floating abouve the course and couldn't see very weel because of all the light. ''Switching to heat traction protocol in 3-2-1-0! Tracking engaged.'' Upon scanning the course, the Iron claw's ¨Pokemon face grew grim... Well
as grim as a super computer without much facial features could be. Concerned, he reached for Riolu once again.
Back at the forest area, Riolu's ears perked up, which signaled his entire team to huddle around him and keep quiet. Riolu took a deep breath and opened his aura to communication
''What's the situation over there?'' He asked the iron Claw Pokemon.
Metang's answer did not bring them the relief they wanted however. ''Not Good. There is a 90% chance that we lose. The last part of the race is a path of light, constantly buffeted bystrong winds.
Magikarp is our last relay, and he's currently stuck, making around 0.0001mm progress every second. Dunsparce, the last relay for the other team, has passed him and is steadily building *skrrrr* a comfortable *skrrr*
Lead *skrrr* Furthermore, The in *skrrr skrrr* wind is *skrrr skrrr skrrr* Ja-ming *Skrrrrrrrrrrrr*
The Riolu cut communication with the metal Pokemon and turned to his team.
Sneasel could see that things weren't looking up just by looking at his teammate's face. Still, as their leader, he had to ask. ''So, how does it look?'' He asked the blue jackal pup.
Riolu didn't sugarcoat it at all. ''Bad. From what Metang told me, Magikarp can barely move an inch forward at all due to the light blinding him and the wind essentially gluing him into place. Those high speed wind are also jamming communication. I don't think that we'll be able to have much info from now on.''
Sneasel bit his lip in frustration. ''Curses, to think that fate would show us such ill fate by having Magikarp be our last relay...''
Riolu put a sympathetic paw on his shoulder.
On the other side, Haunter had come back in her Loppuny morph, explained the situation to her team. Monferno gave her a huge thumbs up! ''Great Job girl. They couldn't have done it without you!'' He praised the specter who blushed slightly in response.
''It was nothing...'' Assured the ghost type shily, barely looking at Monferno.
The fire monkey made a flip in the air. ''Let's go Dunsparce! Finish it up and give us the Win.'' He cheered loudly, making some teammates smiles and others sweatdrop.
Makuhita chuckled and trotted to his leader. ''She can't hear you, you know?''
Monferno smiled. ''Maybe she can't, but i'm positive that our feelings will reach them if we cheer loud enough!'' He replued with such passion that Makuhita couldn't help himself and joined his brash leader in cheering.
ooo
Makuhita was smiling in the confessional. ''Monferno's smile and mojo is too contagious. How can I not follow him?''
ooo
Scyther was cheering as well in the confessional before realizing where he was and coughed loudly. ''Her hem, sir Monferno's smile and team spirit can only be met with the highest respect. He has the attributes of a great king.''
ooo
Magikarp was desesperate. How could this, his biggest challenge he gave himself, be his end. He had joined the competition in order to fight his destiny of being the runt of the litter, the last, the fodder. He wanted to become stronger, yet he was stopped by mere wind currents.
''By Arceus, I cannot allow this to happen.'' He shoulted defiantly as he raised his tail , said tail flashing white for a moment before settling down a little.
Tapu Koko took a mouthpiece ''Dunsparce is at less than 100 meters from victory. Can he keep up that pace?''
Mesprit rolled her eyes and giggled at her cohost
Dunsparce was struggling indeed, the effort being heavy on her petite body. However she was advancing , little by little.
Arceus, watching the small fish Pokemon struggle and strain himself, smiled and tapped the aetherial ground she was laying on, her form flashing blue for a single moment.
''I cannot fully ignore my devout followers after all...'' She reasoned before laying down one more.
Back at the aether path, the wind suddenly grew stronger as Magikarp strained for mere centimeters of progress. It was so hard, so pointless, but the red carp really wanted to change himself. Changing himself meant overcoming trials and this was his starting line.
''Come on! Push! You can't remain the same old Magikarp and expect to win. Harder! Push Harder! '' He psyched himself, tears forming in his eyes due to the immense strain. It was so hard, it was painful, but his determination was unwavering. His tail started to glow again as the atmosphere became damper and damper.
Back at the forest area, Sneasel looked up and couldn't believe what he was reading in the skies.
''This could be our lucky break...'' He muttered, a fol hope taking hold of his heart.
Tapu Koko kept hsi mic close to his mouth. ''60 M. to go for Dunsparce. This situation looks more and more unwinnable for the Zacians. Can the Zamazentas secure their first team challenge of the season? You can't take your eyes of it folks.''
Mesprit gave him a look. ''You are enjoying this way too much.'' She commented, fanning herself with her chinese fan.
Tapu Koko grinned. ''It's like watching Ponyta races, witout the blandness...'' He explained happily as he watched the aether course once more.
By that point, Magikarp's tail was glowing lightly and a small rain had started falling on the course, making the carp Pokemon gain a slight bluish hue around his body. Feeling himself being filled with power, he lifted his tail and before he slapped said tail to the ground, started reminiscing.
A small karp was watching an old tv show about the past where humain existed and had powers that somewhat ressmebled those of Pokemon. One defavorised kid on that show had a power that made him run faster, so much faster. that he could be useful to himself and other people that might need him. That kid loved to utter this word before activating his power. He might have sounded foolish, it might have been desesperate, but he didn't care.
''15 M. left for Dunsparce!'' Shouted Tapu Koko. The island guardian coudln't understand why, this was so decided that it should have beeen boring, but something told him that something amazing was about to happen.
Magikarp, hearing Koko's announcment, let his tail fall while whispering one word.
...
...
''Recipro - Bounce Flash Zero''
Dunsparce saw the finish line. Finally, what she had struggled would have a meaning as the goal profiled before he eyes. It mattered not the thunderclap sound she had heard a few seconds before. She was going to win. Foolishly, she looked behind her.
That split of a second is all it took. For a brief moment, she could only see all red in front of her. When she snapped her head back in front, expecting to cross the finish line, she found it long gone as a dancing carp was splashing happily about in the finishing area.
Tapu Koko stared in utter shock. So did Dunsparce. Mesprit teleported everybody to the finish area, including those who had left the Forest area.
Sneasel and Magikarp immediately rushed over the hosts and Sneasel immediately realied that Magicarp was dancing with joy.
''Magikarp? Are you actually telling me that you...?'' Sneasel started before being cut off by an almost crazed and extasic Magikarp. ''Yes Sneasel, I did it. I never Gave up. I sure showed them my pow...''he explained before slumping, knocked out. Riolu rushed to Magikarp, his palm open and scanning the carp for injuries.
After a few minutes, Riolu's features relaxed and he put a reassuring palm on Sneasel's shoulder who sighed.
Dunsparce looked at the scene, her team around her looking absolutely disgusted.
ooo
Okay, what the actual fuck... I worked so damn hard and he get to blow past me at the last second? Why, Why, Why does life do me like this always!''
ooo
The Zamazentas looked down, Yamask in particular since she had made her team lose a lot of time at the fire course.
''Everything is my fault, if only i wasn't such a coward.'' She lamented before being gently hugged by Hattrem.
Tapu Koko and Mesprit appeared in front of them at that moment. Tapu Koko actually looked very sad. ''You can lift your head Zamazentas, you guys actually won.'' Said a dejected electric type
None of them budged, not even Monferno.
Sneasel on the other hand, had his mouth completely agape. ''How?''
Mesprit turned to him. ''Remember what kind of race this was?''
Sneasel nodded in agreement. ''Yes of course. It was a relay race.''
Tapu Koko then followed with the dagger ''Correct! And what does a relay racer has to tend to above all else?''
Sneasel's eyes widened in realization as he screeched and ran toward the finish line.
Right before it, a single red baton layed on the ground, said baton donning a sword, the symbol of the Zacians.
SNeasel Kneeled in defeat. ''He dropped the baton...right before clearing the race...''
The Zacian saw the scene...and looked down.
Tapu Koko floated next to Sneasel and put a paw on his shoulder. ''I'm sorry about that Sneasel. THe Zamazentas win the relay race challenge. In 30 minutes, head to the dock area. We will hold the vote and one of your participants will go to hell. He said grimly before dissapearing.
Mesprit turned to the whole group. ''This was still an amazing challenge. We got to see so many side of you all. Zamazentas, you get the laurier crown, hold it dearly. You also get a free round at Primarina's bar tonight, so celebrate tight. Be moderate however, remember that this is just the beginning.'' She said as she took Sneasel's Crown and gave it to Monferno. She then dissapeared.
Monferno looked around. Some of his team smiled despite the technical win , some of them felt bad for the karp. But such was the nature of competition. Lifting the crown high. He shouted : ''WHILE I'D RATHER WIN STRAIGHT UP, I VOW TO DO EVERYTHING I CAN TO NOT RELINQUISH THIS CROWN!'' He shouted as his mojo made his team smile. Even Hattrem bypassed her innate desire to slap him into silence in order to cheer with the others.
Sneasel looked at his team and his uncounscious teammate. Let's go to the dock. We have to vote one of us off.
Without a word. The Sharp Claw Pokemon walked toward the dock, his claw shaking and his eyes clouded with shame and anger.
ooo
Sneasel was looking at the camera. ''I know it's a technicality, but I am angry that we didn,t have any word in the choosing of our team's placement. I am certain that we wouldn't have not lost if it wasn't for that. Such burning shame blaze in my chest, i'd gouge it out. I must lead this team to victory, yet I stumble to such an easy tactic...'' He said angrily.
ooo
At the ceremony, nobody was talking much. Completely exhausted, Magikarp still hadn't woken up. Tapu Koko and Mesprit were face to the group. It was time.
''Well, I have to say that I feel bad for you Zacians. You almost pulled an amazing upset. It's truly a pity that Magikarp dropped the ball at the last moment. Well, you could only vote for those who participated in the challenge, so everybody who didn't , come get your little Oran Berry.'' Said Tapu Koko as the Zacians wordlessly took their berry and went back to their place.
Mesprit followed. ''Carkol, Eiscue, Fraxure, You guys come too. You are safe tonight.'' She said as the three mons took their berry.
Only Bidoof and the uncounscious Magikarp remained.
''Bidoof, you are just an aggravating moronic Beaver, Magikarp, you gave your all but ultimately caused your team to lose the challenge...
The one going to hell tonight...
...
...
...
...
Will be Magikarp. Sadly, i'll have to endure your presence a little longer, Bidoof...'' Said Tapu Koko.
Bidoof sighed and took his poffin.
An unseen force formed around Magikarp, as Mesprit teleported his stuff. Everyone took a step back. A few instants later, A giant portal formed right under the red Carp as a massive Shadow erupted from the portal and dragged Magikarp down with all of his stuff downwards before the portal closed, leaving an empty space where the Pokemon had been.
Mesprit shrugged. ''Well that's it, go back to your barracks and have a good night of sleep. You guys will need it. She said as she and Tapu Koko dissapeared.
Sneasel looked at his remaning teammates. '' I swear i'll lead y'all to victory again.'' He said valliantly before heading toward the Zacian shack. Soon followed by Metang and Croagunk.
Riolu went to the beach, wanting some alone time to reflect on today.
Alolan Ninetales and Wartortle went back to the cabins. Soon after moans and grunts could be heard from the latters room, which greatly disturbed some other pensionaries of the housing facility.
Overall, it was a gloomy evening for the Zacians, but they would bounce back. That much was sure.
On the Zamazentas, the mood was much better. The akwardness of their victory long forgotten, Monferno had invited his team to enjoy the famous bar that was on camp. Primarina was an amazing host after all, and drinks were free for a round, so why not enjoy?
''TO OUR FIRST WIN AS THE ZAMAZENTAS! CHEERS!'' Shouted an over eager Monferno.
Makuhita, Lapras, Haunter in her Lopunny Morph, Hattrem, Yamask, Sandile and Scyther had decided to come.
Grotle had decided to go back to his room and sleep.
Falinks was practicing war formations at the beach.
Roserade had decided to go to the library instead of the bar to relax while reading.
Dunsparce was too tired to come...and she was a little shy too.
Primarina smiled as she watched the Zamazentas having fun in her little establishment. Since it was a free round, she had decided to pour some strong alchohol in their drink. After all, having them let loose a little would do them good after such a stressful challenge.
''I WOULD LIKE TO POINT OUT THE AMAZING HELP HAUNTER HAS BEEN IN TODAYS CHALLENGE. A ROUND FOR HER TOO!'' He shouted happily.
The specter in her loppuny morph turned away, a slight pink dusting his cheeks. ''It was nothing...I just didn't want to lose...'' She pointed out. She was equally intrigued by this strange warmth that was filling her chest and disgusted by it.
She'd sort it out later however, tonight was a night to celebrate after all.
Sandile was happy they won... ''This is one step toward my redemption. I will keep winning, in order to fulfill my ambitions.'' He silently vowed before taking another big swig from his glass.
Lapras was enjoying the atmosphere, but her features couldn't fully mask her sadness whenever she layed her eyes upon a pudgy Sumo.
Monferno saw this and looked at his friend. ''Hey Makuhita, I think you should go talk to her mate.''
Makuhita looked at him funny, a bit tipsy due to the strong alcohol. ''Whatevah you mean my bro?'' He asked
The fire monkey chuckled. ''That cute blue one over there!'' He said, as he pointed to Lapras, who quickly looked away.
Makuhita looked at Lapras, feeling a stir in his chest that wouldn't allow him to ignore her for much longer.
ooo
Makuhita looked at the camera in the confessional. ''I want to trust the chick...I really digged her vibe...and she aint bad to look at either... Maybe what happened back at the colloseum was a fluke...'' He reasoned.
ooo
Makuhita sighed. ''I'll go talk to the chick...Just to see if she's really trustworthy.'' he said as he stood up and walked toward the transport Pokemon.
Monferno smiled and looked at him. ''Just to see if she's trustworthy heh? Man can't face himself can he?'' He commented before being dragged into a beer pong game with Scyther, Haunter and Sandile.
Tapu Koko and Mesprit smiled back in their private shack. This was another challenge day done. It seemed that their Opener had attracted the attention of some viewers and they were grateful for it.
''Seems that we will have at least modest success in this endeavor, pointed out Tapu Koko as he sipped a Lansat berry Martini.''
''Yes indeed, Koko. If we're lucky we'll be able to make 3-4 seasons. It would be a blast.'' Mesprit wished, looking at the moonlith sky.
''Next challenge is important though, the constestants will finally know what they are here for...'' She added excitedly.
''They are in for quite the surprise...'' Tapu Koko said while laughing.
Mesprit's laugh mixed with Koko's and echoed through the camp as an ominous warning.
End of Chapter
So Magikarp got the boot. Poor guy, he had just pulled off an incredible upset too. Oh well, let's hope he can survive in hell. Zamazentas wins the first team challenge. Can they keep that up?
Will bidoof survive being on?
See you next time in the next episode of Total Island.
Magikarp: Please review and help a bro out.