Hybrid: Topaz Edition

by LuxBeacon

Our story centers around Topaz Heart, nephew of Volkner. He has set his sights on becoming a gym trainer worthy of the Sinnoh League, but in order to do that he takes risks. So many risks. Assaulting smugglers, beating up gang members, infiltrating terrorist bases, actually crazy rivals, getting lost underground and being a huge nerd. And he wouldn't have it any other way.

44. War in Oozaru Bog (Ch44)

{}=Pokemon Speaking; []=Telepathic Speaking

---

The climax of this perilous conflict has arrived. Our heroes have rallied the local populace against the wicked threat. The final remnants of Benedetto's army will be routed within Sinnoh. Kakuen and his followers will be punished for years of oppressing others for abhorrent reasons. But first, his generals must pay their dues.

---

~x1x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Oozaru Bog Campsite - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Morning

The night passed slowly, since I spent most of it considering our final battle. I wasn't sure when I managed to fall asleep, but I woke up with a clear head and eagerness to win. I was a bit anxious, so I didn't eat too much, but Jade gave me some tea that really calmed my nerves that he enjoyed as well.

As we all got ready Isadora, Wilona, Lou and the Sky Shredders departed early to scout out the Heterupts and where we'd likely have the final battle. Simultaneously, Meliae, Rheneas and Mareeta left to commune with representatives from other territories.

The rest of us mentally prepared ourselves, surrounded by wild pokemon keeping an eye out with Lyle in charge. Eva was psyching herself up with her team, reminding them all how capable they were. It seemed like it was mostly for herself and Clarabel, given Sylvia's proud little sitting dance she did, but it was working.

Lyle was currently badgering Jade about the contents of his alchemy balloons and if he's got all his supplies easily on hand. Despite his adamant disdain for being micromanaged, Jade did appear to be taking the advice while giving Lyle as much shit as possible. Course, Lyle loves difficult people, so he found it amusing. Jade's team was relaxing, unperturbed by the upcoming events.

Interestingly enough, earlier I had seen Jade fiddling with a drone camera. He wanted to try and film some of the battle if possible. Surprisingly, Eva didn't object, as long as he showed Isadora the footage after everything was over. He agreed readily.

Violet was prepping her own equipment with Amethyst and Cenza assisting. Zenara on the other hand was sitting alone on a rock, staring up at the sky in deep thought. The three were keeping an eye on her, but she seemed okay. She just had a lot to process.

As for myself, I was finishing maintenance on all of my tools, updated Destiny and texted Volkner to see if he had any advice. He told me if I was this far I already knew what to do, which wasn't really helpful, yet somehow appreciated. I considered asking Cynthia as well, but decided he was right. I knew what I had to do.

Holyn was fiddling with my rock collection to occupy his brain. He was anxious, but he found familiarizing himself with minerals to be a worthwhile distraction. Donut was lounging, clearly tired. I'd asked if he was okay to fight and he assured me as long as it was the last one for a while he'd be okay.

By time we all finished prep Lou and company emerged from the trees as Meliae and others descended from a cliffside.

"Perfect timing, we're all reconvening," Isadora noted, as we all stood up. "The scouting mission went smoothly, so we've got an idea on how to proceed."

{Before that,} Meliae interjected. {We've spoken with the territory representatives. They have their requests on how to deal with the Heterupts. We all are in agreement on the sensibility and severity of their punishments.}

Isadora nodded, giving the floor to Meliae. {The territory representatives appreciate all the work we've done throughout the Great Marsh, and thoroughly do not care what happens to the Heterupts as long as they all never disrupt the Marsh again. Whatever methods are taken to achieve this, they approve of.}

{All the Great Marsh pokemon that joined or were forced into the Heterupts have fled back to their territories. So we don't have to worry about fighting any natives,} Rheneas assured as she gestured towards Mareeta. {The representatives also heard about how Mareeta's helping us, so if she wants to stay here they won't object.}

{Is that what you want?} Marjorie asked Mareeta.

Mareeta sighed, tail drooping. {No, not really. I appreciate the kindness, but… it wouldn't feel right.}

It would be pretty difficult to find a normal life here considering the circumstances as to why she came here.

Marjorie hummed sadly at the response, but did not press.

{The only major request is that we do not kill the five leaders of the Heterupts,} Meliae continued. {That consists of Kakuen, Bloom, Riev, Ursula and Margrave. They've inflicted immense suffering upon the Great Marsh, and the representatives want to deal with them personally as its citizens.}

Mareeta gave her a pained grin. {Well at least I won't have to worry about being the one to kill Bloom.}

My initial goal was to complete the mission with no casualties, but that ship sailed days ago. May as well keep trying.

{The Corps have reported we've retrieved enough prisoners to last the hive many months and need little else,} Tanya explained.

{Although, our aid was still requested. In exchange for our services we'll take the absolute worst of the lot off their hands, along with bushels of fruit, berries, and necessary flora we do not have in our territory.}

{Excellent negotiations, Colonel,} Lou praised.

Considering how many we captured, they have more than enough for all the newborn larvae, the adults and surplus for tough times. I know Clover doesn't intend to grow the Corps much larger, so anymore excess would go to waste.

She clicked at him in thanks, looking back at us. {Beyond that, the Sky Shredders are ready and reporting for combat.}

{Lastly,} Meliae added. {The representatives don't intend on sitting around, waiting for us to do everything. Members of their territories will be joining the other wild pokemon to fight alongside us once we advance.}

Isadora and Wilona looked at each other before nodding. "That's all doable and sensible."

"Now the scouting?" Jade inquired.

{Mmm, yes,} Lou buzzed. {The Heterupts have moved away from their primary base, leaving only youths and caretakers behind and have moved to a more suitable location for battle.}

{They left their children?} Flax questioned.

{According to our reports, Ursula informed everyone that we were too soft to come for children. I'd say we're simply decent individuals, but nonetheless their caretakers are being watched closely,} Lou continued. {The fighters have moved to a thick clearing with numerous trees and bog as well as a view of the Brava Grandtree in the distance. Likely as motivation for their soldiers. The setting suits their fighting style, but thankfully it seems all the Heterupts agreed on minimizing fire damage.}

{Oh how I wonder why?} Shizu snickered sarcastically.

"They've prepared themselves for a final stand," Eva noted.

Wilona nodded. {They know what's become of their captured and understand a similar fate awaits them. We'll offer surrender for those who deserve it, but the majority will fight to the last.} She scanned us all. {I've watched you all in combat, and have been distinctly impressed. You've easily taken down each challenge. Which is why I must inform you all this fight will not be like the previous.}

"We've determined their resolve and emotional state. This is a group of cornered pokemon who are fully aware of their situation. They are not expecting the same mercy we've showcased before. Now they know what might and will happen. They can't afford to go down in two hits and expect to be ferried away by the League anymore," Isadora explained. "Nor are they expecting to easily win this fight."

Wilona continued. {They will be fighting for their lives, rallied by the will of their leaders. I know how strong you all are, which is why I urge none of you to underestimate your opponents.}

Isadora sighed, gazing seriously at us all. "And before we discuss strategy, I want to stress this to all of you. None of you are allowed to die. That's the highest priority. I do not care if Kakuen or Bloom is getting away, or if you think sacrificing yourself might make the battle easier. We're all to finish this mission alive and well, and that is the only way I'll consider it a win. Understood?"

We all nodded, keeping her words in mind.

{As all the Compound Corps learned from Founder General Lou, every ally's life matters,} Tanya spoke up. {Whether it's a bug, fish, mammal or human, we must all come home. It's because of that creed I've never lost a single soldier in battle. I do not intend to begin today.}

"I want to be able to end this fight smiling with everyone having accomplished something great," I affirmed, clenching my fist. "Even if it's to make a difference, there'll be no mourning today."

"A death would sour the victory," Jade stated casually, turning serious. "Besides, there's more to be done after this. For all of us."

Eva patted her chest to calm herself. "I won't underestimate the opponent. If they fight for their lives, then I shall fight for all of ours."

"I will not allow death to take us," Violet said simply.

Isadora scanned all our faces, nodding in approval. I could sense she believed us wholeheartedly, our resolve was strong. "Trainers. You may not be able to fight as directly, but keep that conviction in mind when fighting alongside your teams. No matter how strong you think your partner is, they'll be far stronger if they know you believe in them to the fullest. Teams, don't forget you're not alone. We'll be right with you, ready and able to help with whatever you need."

Rogelio talks a lot about how bonds make us stronger… the symbiotic relationship between trainers and their teams. I'll keep that in mind, just in case.

{If all is understood then now we discuss strategy,} Wilona announced as we huddled closer together.

---

~x2x~

PoV: Topaz Heart

Location: Oozaru Bog - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Noon

Once we finished discussing strategy, we set out for battle. Lyle and Alkali went their own way, informing Isadora they'd find a prime seat for the fight which she did not object to. Isadora and Wilona led us down a dry path through the bog, the Brava Grandtree in the distance. As we walked wild pokemon- familiar faces among them- from all sides watched us pass by wishing us luck.

I couldn't help but smile at all the support. Everyone else had their own expressions of pleasure, but we couldn't bathe in it at the moment. We still had to win the fight. After a relatively short walk, I could finally make out on the battlefield.

We stepped into a large clearing with tree leaves blotting out most of the sky, casting shadows tinted green waving across the ground. The earth was uneven with pits of bog and ponds strewn about. I eyed the amount of large tree trunks scattered about, noting how limited ranged attacks would be with so many obstacles.

From the edges of the area were wild pokemon, watching us all from safe positions. In the distance, as Lou said, was a path that seemed to lead to the Brava Grandtree, looming over all.

Directly in front of us stood the remaining members of the Heterupts. Despite all the members we had defeated, a large number stood before us. They hung from tree branches and vines, looking down with absolute vehemence from the largest tree in the field.

Primeape, Vigoroth, Ambipom, all of the Simis, Darmanitan, Passimian and Oranguru. Not a single unevolved pokemon among them and judging by their appearances, the most well trained and fed of the Heterupts. These were the strongest that benefited most from Kakuen's rule.

Course they huddled together after their subordinates were defeated.

As we approached the primates began to pound their chests, screeching in hostility as they rallied together to psych us out. I could sense Holyn grimace beside me, but I rubbed his back, urging him forward. We couldn't let them see our fear.

Or lack thereof, as Meliae gave them an unimpressed look, growling back at them as her steps shook the earth. Amethyst just bobbed her head side to side, meowing mockingly back at them while Zenara's wool sparked threateningly. Lou and the Sky Shredders buzzed loudly back creating an opposing uproar.

The Heterupts' raucous chorus only grew louder until Isadora stopped suddenly before a wide open space. She looked up into the trees as all five commanders of the Heterupts landed heavily before their troops. The cheers were deafening and exuberant as they were welcomed in their charge to the frontline.

Needless to say none of them had the same swagger they carried themselves with when we first met. Ursula stood on the far left, downing several stolen potions and ethers. The scar upon her face was still red and the injuries she accrued the other day had barely healed. Otherwise, she carried herself with a haggard, annoyed exhaustion implying she'd much rather be asleep than anything.

Even after days of rest she still hasn't recovered? So this is the true weakness of Truant. She looks like shit compared to how she was before.

Riev stood on the opposite end of her, seething with rage. His anger paled in comparison to Margrave who looked even more disheveled and unhinged than before, dried blood staining his gloves.

Bloom appeared the most composed, yet she was distinctly sullen as she hid most of her face behind a fan.

Finally, there was Kakuen… as much as he likely tried, he could not withhold his rage any longer. While he was much better kept than Margrave, his larger, more imposing body lent itself a much higher magnitude of danger. Their various followers howled in joy at their leaders until Kakuen raised a hand in silence.

All howling ceased immediately as he took a step forward, the anger vein in his head pulsing uncomfortably as he scanned each and every one of us.

Noticeably, Mareeta hid behind Meliae for some reason, so he didn't spot her. Though her face was set with conviction, she wasn't afraid, whatever her reasons were. Once he finished, he huffed angrily.

[When I had first heard the reports, I could not believe that it was Lux and Nyx once again meddling in our affairs, but I soon addressed that when I was able to lay my eyes upon you all, ] he growled, his anger intensifying. [Even so… what you've done with my people… that is unforgivable.]

Tanya clicked, unimpressed. {And what you've done is oh so venerated? You should be glad, now your troop can finally do something worthwhile with their lives. Rather than the path of wanton chaos you've been leading them down.} The Sky Shredders behind her all buzzed in affirmation.

[Shut your mouth, you wretched insects!] Riev demanded, fire enveloping his hands. [We'll find your hive and burn it all to the ground for what you've done!]

Lou's body shuddered slightly with electricity at the threat. He was livid, but let Tanya speak.

Tanya stood up, smirking at him. Now on eye level with him. {Is that so? Then come, try us. The Sky Shredders will relish your downfall. I believe you said something about the rules of nature? Allow us to show you the texts.}

Her and her battalion buzzed louder in affirmation, cheering us onward. I couldn't help but notice that their buzzing echoed in the trees in a way the Heterupt's howling didn't. Lou literally glowed with pride.

Bloom lowered her fan, eyeing us trainers. [While I admit our tactics may not have been the kindest, we've never resorted to such excessive genocide to any one group. I had thought the humans of Sinnoh prided themselves on kindness and yet…] She began fanning herself to ease some anger. [And yet you hunted us down and fed us to bugs. Here I thought Lux and Nyx were saviors of all pokemon and not just the ones that pleased them. Clearly, you're no better than our former grunts.]

{Oh yeah, you assholes never saw what I did with Benedetto,} Amethyst grinned at her. {Ignoring the prejudice against bugs which, by the way, Lou is gonna eviscerate you and so will the Sky Shredders, you think we're kind to everyone? We're kind to those who deserve it.}

{Everything that's happened to your people is a result of your twisted leadership. We're well informed, Bloom. You're the one who suggested which groups of pokemon become servile to the Heterupts and what territories to attack,} Marjorie continued sharply. {Your people have destroyed homes, burned territories and oppressed innocents with fear of violence. You call it genocide, the natives call it justice.}

Wilona nodded, looking at the leaders and the Heterupts behind them. {This is your final chance. Any among you who wish to surrender, do so now and your lives will be spared.} She looked directly at the leaders. {You five will not face the same lenience as your troop, given the destruction you have wrought upon this land. But those following you out of obligation, fear, or lack of another option? This is your final option.}

Suddenly, there was a slight shift in the group's fervor. Some hesitation and uneasiness sewn among them. They knew what happened to their fellows and they know they probably deserve it the most. Yet we're giving them a chance. Taking it could assure them so much, meanwhile not could spell death.

None of you are good people… but please at least some take the chance.

Margrave glared behind him, spooking several unsure ones. Yet a Primeape and Vigoroth out of his line of sight leaped down from the trees and over to our group, bowing before us.

[I know we're pieces of shit, but we don't wanna die! We'll be better, just please don't kill us!] Vigoroth pleaded alongside his partner.

Wilona nodded at the both of them. {Then retreat, the denizens of the forest will ensure you do not backstab us but will not provoke you.}

She glared back at Margrave, and the troop as a whole. {You know what awaits you if you follow Kakuen. For those afraid of backing out now, I ask you; are you more afraid of your leaders, or of us?}

[Treacherous cowards!] Margave snarled. [All they've done is kill your kin, take our land and you bow before them as you did your old masters. You're only alive because Lord Kakuen saved you and this is how you repay him? Disgusting! Anyone who joins them is dead to me and all of the Heterupts!]

Amazingly this did raise the morale for many. Some of the unsure howled obscenities towards the two as a pair of Carnivine escorted them away. Though, some appeared envious still.

{This jagoff is the worst,} Donut muttered.

{He's heartless,} Cenza spat.

After a long moment, a couple more left the Heterupts and ran over to our side. A Passimian (which seemed to upset Bloom further), an Oranguru, which got a sad grimace from Mareeta, and an Ambipom. Notably, the Ambipom had tails like Marsil's; a more developed hand and no red ends to it, unlike the Ambipom that stayed beside the Heterupts.

[We don't deserve this… but thank you,] Ambipom spoke up, gladly going with a few Quagsire along with the Passimian and Darmanitan.

Maybe they'll be better after today… we can only hope.

Unexpectedly, Violet stepped forward, looking at Kakuen. "You did not save any of these Pokemon. You carried out Benedetto's human desires, dragging them with you. Your speech patterns, actions, demeanor and lack of respect for your fellows showcases this. It is a shame that you carry on his legacy with your second chance."

Kakuen slammed the ground, cracking the earth around him as he stared viscerally at Violet. She didn't back down, steely gazing back.

[I am nothing like that man!] He straightened his posture as he pounded his chest. [When no one was there for my people, I was the one who made sure they were fed, warm, had a place to sleep, territory to nurture their young. Regardless if they leave me to wean off human mercy again, Benedetto would stab them all in the back at such betrayal. I am better than him and I would know.]

{She hit a nerve,} Donut whispered.

{Nah, you're just throwing a fit cuz she's right,} Amethyst floated next to her sister. {Let's see, getting pissed when things don't go your way, grandstanding and getting the rug pulled out from under you cuz you're a pansy, trying to frame your shit like some 'holier than thou' action? You're exactly like Benjy. And we're gonna tear you down just like him. Second verse, same as the first.}

{You could've been fine!} Zenara yelled out, to the Heterupts as a whole, a stark contrast to her silence from earlier. {You're strong enough, people are nice enough! All you had to do was be nice, and you could've lived happily with everyone! But you kept being bad guys, even when you didn't need to!} She lowered, readying to charge as lightning scorched the ground beside her. {And now we're gonna take you out just like we always do with bad guys!}

Bloom scoffed. [Kindness? To be lectured by a lamb, oh heavens.] She eyed us all. [We would've had our way had you all not intervened, little sheep. Benedetto and his ilk were despicable men, but there was something to be learned from him.]

{Pray tell what that might be?} Shizu questioned.

{Clearly it wasn't 'be a halfway decent person',} Rheneas groaned.

[How beneficial utter domination and coordination can be,] Bloom explained haughtily. [In the wild I lived a modest life, not without challenge, but I had those I cared for and I didn't starve. It was… acceptable. Among Benedetto I was used as a pawn and I despised those that did, but now… now I understand the merits of a position of power. Why Pangoro and Meowstic secured Benedetto's status quo.] She spread open her arms. [I live lavishly with countless at my command, recognized for my efforts and intelligence. I am more than just an Oranguru, but an integral piece to something powerful!]

{And is that power worth what you left behind?} Meliae asked simply, narrowing her eyes. Something in them told me she and Mareeta had talked.

Bloom closed her eyes, considering her answer. Unexpectedly, Kakuen rubbed her back gently, earning a gag from Shizu as he turned to face us.

I don't want any details on whatever their relationship is.

[We've left much carnage in our wake, whether it was for someone else's benefit or our own,] he explained. [Sacrifices were to be made for the chance of something greater.]

{Is it so great to step on everyone else to lift yourself higher!?} Holyn begged for an answer.

Bloom opened her eyes. [If I can secure the wellbeing of the Heterupts? Yes.]

I noticed Mareeta cringe at her words.

I can't imagine hearing Jade or Violet speak this way. This must be devastating for her.

{Seems she found her people,} Marjorie stated, speaking indirectly to Mareeta. {Bloom's been by Kakuen's side all this time and he's lifted her into his awful worldview. This is the culmination of all that time spent together.}

[So…] Kakuen spoke up again. [Have we given you all enough reasons to kill us all now? We know what'll happen even if we win, but even if this is my last stand I'll die fighting for those you've killed.]

No, this wasn't our intent.

I grimaced as I stepped forward. "We… I never wanted anyone to die!"

[Then why have so many died, Lux!? Tell us!] Riev demanded.

{Because I negotiated it,} Lou spoke up, drawing the attention of the Heterupts. {I negotiated with the local wildlife for the worst of your troop that are captured to be delivered to the Compound Corps. No human involvement whatsoever, so you cannot blame it on them.}

He narrowed his eyes. {You call our trainers simple children and my fellow pokemon mindless housepets, and now dozens of your forces are going to die. Direct your hatred upon me, for finally it will be deserved.}

Kakuen turned towards me, baffled. [You… what is this, Lux? Are trainers not meant to reign in their pokemon!? How could you have allowed your subordinates-]

"Because he's not my subordinate!" I shouted over him, stepping forward, pounding my chest. "You don't get it, Kakuen! Your perception of us is flawed!"

I sighed deeply before speaking once again. "You're projecting your own ideas of who I am, who we all are, onto us again. Like we told you before, we aren't servants and masters and we're more than human and pokemon. We're family and friends, we're equals who care for one another deeply. I didn't 'rein' Lou in because it was his and the citizens of the Great Marsh's decision to make, and I respect his calls because I trust him more than myself. Can't you see that now?"

I stared directly into his eyes, hoping my message was received. Even if we fought, he needed to know my truth. Surprisingly, Kakuen's eyes opened in realization mixed with confusion. He could see my honesty, yet he couldn't fathom it.

[What… are you?] He questioned in disbelief.

I was going to respond when Bloom stepped forward, pointing her fan directly at us. [They're attempting to manipulate you, milord, that is their way. As you can see even human children have unimaginable influence, just as Benedetto did. They intend to lure us in and kill us all. The emerald child especially does not value our lives.]

{With each passing minute I hear less reason to,} Flax shot back.

{Who's manipulating who now,} Rheneas huffed as she rolled her eyes.

Jade rolled his eyes as he folded his arms. "This is such bullshit. Trying to spin me as the villain to fuel your rhetoric as us being as bad as your old master? You lack perception and sense if you think we're comparable to poachers."

[Sharp tongue and a dangerous twinkle in his eyes,] Riev bellowed. [Lux tricks us with kindness while the others stab us in the back. You won't catch us off guard like that, punks!]

{You still don't get it,} Cenza spoke up.

I looked over to her to see several Kalos pokemon watching from afar as well. The Dragalge from Clearpool, Sliggoo from Lax Falls and many others I hadn't seen since the escape.

[What is there to understand?] Riev questioned.

She looked up at him. {What a relationship outside of subjugation looks like.}

She turned to Bloom. {Well… you would know really well, you just don't cherish it. The others… I've been thinking and when we met the other day, I realized you're all so… twisted. Maybe you were born that way or maybe it's how you were raised, but you can't see genuine love from outside your viewpoint. So you don't care about anyone else. Maybe that's why you were able to kidnap so many of us and never once thought to apologize?} Cenza pondered.

She shook her head calmly. {That's okay though. None of us want your apologies. We want you to pay, so then we'll finally have closure. Once you witness what makes us so much better, you'll regret everything you've done and be better in the next life. That's all I hope for now.}

Countless different Kalos pokemon cheered her on as she looked around at them with a brave expression on her face. She smiled under their cheers of support. They depended on her once and they can do it again.

She's come so far. She can't use electricity, but she's a shining beacon herself.

"Well said Cenza," Eva praised her as she faced forward. "I believe they've heard enough though. It's time they face the consequences of countless negative actions."

[You little shits!] Riev spat. [Nothing you've said means a damn. We are a unit and we will avenge the fallen!]

Isadora stepped forward as one with Wilona. Their eyes were frigid. "And yet when any of your troop choose a more peaceful life, you shun them unjustly. You see them as beneath you. The way you've talked about me, my daughter, our allies and friends? That all shows you have no respect for anyone who doesn't align themselves with you. We offer you surrender, we have at every turn. You continue to spit in the face of that, ignoring a chance for a better, peaceful, fulfilling life."

{You may believe us arrogant outsiders who know nothing of what you've been through. And I tell you this; we survived worse than you've conjured in your worst nightmares. We mapped out these lands, cooperating with the Pokemon here to understand them better. After our lives were all but upturned, rather than acting in hatred and anger? We did our best to ensure such acts would never happen again,} Wilona continued.

"This is an extension of that," Isadora kept going. "Those who fell did so because they chose hate and foisting their suffering upon innocents. Benedetto, then yourselves, have convinced you that this is the best, the only way to get what you want. And yet, no matter how much territory you would take, how many lives you destroy? It would never be enough. You're hollow. Your victories are hollow. Power over others will never fill that void. And time and time again, you ignore this. For all your talk of strength, of intelligence, of resolve? You're too afraid to fight your true enemy; what you've become. Hollow shells of who you once were, what you could have been, following the last commands of a broken commander because you don't know what else to do. If you can't recognize that, the kindest thing is to send you to the next life. Where such shackles no longer bind you."

[Then we'll drag as many of you as we can along with us!] Margrave raved as he pounded the ground, rousing his side to their feet while everyone on ours took a stance. I noticed several other wild pokemon step forward, siding against the Heterupts.

We're still outnumbered, but it doesn't matter. No one else is stepping down, this is it!

Meliae roared, Tanya raising one of her blades. {Sky Shredders, tear them down! Leave none standing!}

As one, we all ran forward firing attacks ready to take back the Great Marsh.

---

~x3x Deserter~

PoV: Mareeta the Passimian

Location: Oozaru Bog Battlefield - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Unforgivable Conflict

Now.

From behind Meliae, I bolted out. Past the others, elbowing Bloom hard in the gut. Pivoting and landing a hard kick. Bloom was sent careening to the side, shaking herself before picking herself up. I stood there, grimacing down at her, stick held firmly in hand.

Shock was strewn all across her face. {M-Mareeta!? You're alive!?}

{These people aren't the demons you make them out to be.} I readied myself. {But then, you've gotten quite familiar with what makes a monster.}

Kakuen… everyday you find a new way to disgust me.

I shot forward again, my stick connecting with a resounding crack against Bloom's fan, enveloped in a pink glow. Her eyes were bugging out. {What is the meaning of this!?}

I narrowed mine. {You abandoned those who need you. You refused to listen when I asked you to come home with me. You bought into Benedetto's and Kakuen's lies, became what tore us from our home.} I felt the fur near my eyes grow wet. {The Bloom I knew as my friend is dead. The least I can do for her memory is remove her sorry impostor.}

Bloom's expression changed to one of abject fury as a psychic glow began to surround my body, crushing me from all sides. {I've mourned you once already. I'll not regret what I must do to you now!}

I thought you'd say that. And do this.

Focusing, my black markings pulsed with dark energy. The psychic glow fizzled out before my energy concentrated in my stick. I rushed her, striking her quicker than she could react, unable to fully block the strikes. {You wanted another pawn. A fighter to go and enact more suffering. If you thought I'd ever want that, you're just as far gone as I'd feared.}

Bloom jumped back, noting the black bruises across her body. {A wicked new trick, I see. I am glad my new company isn't so crass.}

No, they're just demons like you.

Seconds later, three Passimian assaulted me from behind, above and before me. I stowed my stick back in my fur, calling on the winds. I darted around the one behind me, slammed them into the one above, grabbed their legs and used them to slam the one in front of me. Then came pummeling all of them in the blink of an eye. Every thud of my fists against their bodies made me wince.

You never wanted me as part of your troop, and you never knew I could fight. I'll end this as quickly as I can.

Within moments, all three were left battered and bruised on the ground. Some Tangela and Tangrowth ran forward to snatch them before they could escape. I slowly took out my stick again, glaring mournfully at Bloom. {And there go your replacements for me.}

Bloom took a step back in disbelief, fanning herself. {To think I wept for you, believing you had perished in flames or been accosted by Lux and Nyx's minions. Turns out you've become one of them.}

{I'm no minion, and neither are their allies,} I sighed, shaking my head. {But I guess the sentiment is lost on you…}

You really don't remember anymore, do you? Our days spent in the jungles of Akala, you coaching me and the troop. How we worked as one, something Benedetto would never have allowed.

I rocketed forward again, calling forth seven shadow doubles as I began assaulting Bloom from all sides, black streaks following each of us as the crack of my stick rang out again and again through the clearing.

Every day I search my memories for something I missed. Something that would've predicted this change, could've prevented it. And when I do it breaks my heart a bit more.

I raised my stick to strike the back of Bloom's head, only for a Primeape to rush in and catch it with his gloves. I clicked my tongue, beginning to pry them off me, when Bloom suppressed my movements with a wave of her fan. Frozen in place by her Quash, Primeape let loose a savage Close Combat on my abdomen while another Oranguru warped several Sitrus and Colbur berries into Bloom's hands as she began to chow down.

Still using Symbiosis, huh? With berries, even. Just not for our troop's sake.

I was considering my options when Marjorie slammed into the Primeape's shins with a Low Sweep, knocking them off their feet. She quickly blasted Bloom with razor leaves, forcing her to block and end the Quash. The weight lifted, I picked up my fallen stick and swiped at Primeape only for them to be pulled back by Bloom.

I grimaced, then gave a sad smile to Marjorie. {Thanks for the save.}

{I am no Passimian, but we're both Akalans. We look out for our own,} Marjorie smiled back as she glared at Bloom. {She doesn't fight fair, does she? I'll cover you.}

She used to.

Marjorie channeled sweet powder into her hands before veiling me in an Aromatic Mist, raising my resistance. I nodded at her, glancing at Primeape. {I was always the one fighting instead of Bloom. Without…} I hesitated for a moment. {Without pawns, she's not nearly as tough.}

A stray Vigoroth slashed at Marjorie's back but I blocked with my stick, roundhouse kicking them back. As I did so Primeape ran forward, limping slightly. Marjorie took advantage of his limp and tied up his legs with a Grass Knot, giving me enough time to crack my stick against their legs, bringing them to their knees.

Vigoroth charged again with savage slashes as they clashed against my strikes over and over again. The Primeape burned the vines with fire and began swinging on Marjorie who swiftly dodged their strikes, retaliating back with rapid kicks. Neither of our opponents were fast enough to hit us, allowing us to smack them around easily.

Bloom supported her allies from afar, scoring potshots when she could while avoiding hurting her allies. I took the brunt of them for Marjorie's sake, utilizing her mist to the fullest and breaking as many as I could with dark strikes. Marjorie meanwhile did whatever she could to slow Primeape and Vigoroth till they could barely block either of our attacks.

Bloom seemed to have a plan for that in mind though as she smirked, waving her fan and immersing our fight in a psychedelic dome. I groaned while Marjorie took a cautionary stance. Primeape closed the vast distance between them in an instant, punching her in the gut with a poison infused fist. Shock spread across her face as she flew towards a boulder until I jumped forward, catching her safely.

{Urgh!?} Marjorie gasped, clenching her stomach as I could sense the poison welling through her.

{Trick Room, little berry. A move Mareeta was never fond of,} Bloom snickered.

So you remember pranking me with it, but none of the times we spent relaxing together, talking about what we might do tomorrow.

I sighed, glancing at Bloom. {And one I've planned for.} I glanced at Marjorie. {Can you hold onto my back?}

Marjorie winced as she scampered on my back, clutching where I may have helped carry little ones. I stood still, taking a deep breath. As Vigoroth barrelled towards me, I split. Dozens of copies circled us, a couple Substitutes mixed in amongst them. Three other copies crouched with us as I kept on guard.

The Vigoroth's slash went right through the double, and I cracked them in the gut for their effort. They and Primeape continued trying to figure out which was the real one.

None of those.

I glanced back at Marjorie, powering through the exhaustion that making several Substitutes came with. {Bloom can only keep up the Trick Room with focus. Can you mitigate your poison?}

She nodded back. {Yes, and heal myself. But what about you?}

My eyes darted back to the Vigoroth and Primeape. {I've got a plan. Just recuperate and give me whatever you can to huck at Bloom when you're ready.}

She nodded, letting out a soothing aroma while she began absorbing sunlight. Moments later, Primeape slammed a double and it went flying back. Their face lit up, only to be replaced with confusion as it poofed into smoke. I pushed my spirit into my fist, clocking them in the nose for their efforts. Their vigor flowed into me, soothing my aching muscles.

Primeape have more energy than they know what to do with, they won't miss it. Or more.

Even with that tactic, slowly the doubles were torn apart, substitutes broken. Fortunately, me and Marjorie kept recovering, getting ready to get back in the fight. When there were only around a half dozen left, Bloom began to grin.

Okay, this is gonna be tight. I can't outrun them, and she can still make that weird terrain that negates Quick Attack. I'll need to-

And then a rocket made of steel and stone slammed into her.

She lurched back, barely keeping focus on Trick Room as Clarabel slammed her whole body into her with uncharacteristic speed. She pivoted, slamming into Vigoroth and Primeape to give me and Marjorie some space. The remaining doubles raised their hands, filled with seeds and tight balls of leaves.

Clarabel turned to us nervously, surprised by even her own sudden agility. {Ha ha… it worked out!}

Thanks Clarabel. You were the best person for this job.

I gave her a grin before turning to Bloom. {I might not have a troop,} my doubled voice rang out, {But I do have friends. Friends who can make ammo, at that.}

{Now the finishing touch,} Marjorie said as she waved her glowing hands elegantly. She pressed them deep into my neck, an involuntary shudder running through my body before rushing into my arms, overcharging my muscles.

A perfect Acupressure, huh? Marjorie, you spoil me.

With that, a hailstorm of blackened seeds and leaves descended upon Bloom. While each one may not have done much, the dozens and dozens of darkness infused balls rained down on her. There was no hope of her keeping up concentration as she dropped her pretentious fan, and as soon as the Trick Room went down? I wasted no time in soundly pummeling Vigoroth and Primeape into the dirt within seconds, Reversal and Acrobatics respectively.

{Damnit! Damnit!} Bloom screamed as she reached into the sky for an ally to warp an item into her free hand. A leppa and sitrus berry did appear, only for Holyn to jump her from behind and freeze her entire hand solid. {Fuck!}

She looked for her gaudy fan only to see Clarabel eating it contentedly in the background. Despite myself, I couldn't help but chuckle while Bloom's face contorted in fury. {You wretched-}

{That's enough, Bloom! Apologize to Mareeta!} Holyn demanded.

I walked forward, gripping my stick again with Marjorie still on my back and a solemn frown on my face.

{Or must this little berry assert herself once more?} Marjorie demanded.

{It didn't have to be this way, Bloom. All you had to do was listen, just once, just trust me like you used to. And then we could go home.} I wiped my eyes with my free hand. I needed my vision. {But you never listened. You didn't care, not anymore. You wanted the power the humans had, and forgot how much pain it caused. I'm just sorry I was too stupid to realize sooner.}

Bloom clenched her right hand as she fell to her knees, trying to find the focus to smash Holyn's very solid ice. She looked up at me walking closer, desperation across her face.

{We… we could still have something, Mareeta,} Bloom pleaded. {Ursula killed Caellach, yet Riev can still work with her. I am not above forgiveness. We were buried in resentment, I understand that now.}

No you don't. But if you do… please, Bloom. Prove me wrong. Show me you're still in there.

I grimaced, but stopped in front of Bloom. Not preparing a strike. {Do you? Do you really?}

Bloom smiled sadly. {There's no hope for the Heterupts against your might. We went too far and I… I don't want our relationship to end in animosity.}

I'd prefer that, but I don't think you mean that.

Holyn looked unsure. {Meliae said you had to be punished… but maybe we can talk to her after the fight and spare you!}

You poor, sweet kid. I'm glad you've got Lux to look after you, someone like Benedetto would rip you apart. And… someone like Bloom now, as well.

Marjorie leaned forward as Bloom turned around to him. [Yes yes, please! I'll do whatever it takes to repent.]

I let my shoulders slump slightly. Giving the impression I lowered my guard. {I'm so tired, Bloom. I just want to go home. I don't want to fight you. I never did.} I wiped my eyes again. {You just… wouldn't listen.}

The relaxed stance is a fake. The tears, the spike through my heart, what I'm saying, that's all real. Bloom, please… just prove me wrong.

Bloom turned back to me with a mixed expression. [I am sorry, Mareeta….] Her eyes fell upon my stick before it was enveloped in psychic energy. I was barely holding it anymore, securing my grasp on the berries now in my hand. Bloom stood up, wielding the stick in her frozen fist as a new psychic conduit as she swung it at me with her full psychic force. [I'm sorry I ever cared for-]

Why did I have to be right?

I didn't need to reel back as I slammed my fist into her face, the crack of her nose breaking ringing out past the black energy coating my hand. Then I smacked her frozen hand, breaking the ice and knocking my stick out of Bloom's hand before picking it up in one swift motion. I just grimaced, handed the berries to Marjorie, and averted my gaze. {I know.}

Marjorie took the berries solemnly. {Why did you give her a chance if you knew she'd betray you again?}

I looked down at Bloom, tears in my eyes. {I wanted her to prove me wrong. Just once.}

That's all I needed. And you couldn't. Because you're gone.

Holyn ran up to the unconscious Bloom before turning to me, his face blanketed with confusion. {How did… how did you know she was lying?}

I looked at him mournfully. {Like I said. She changed when we were with Benedetto.} I looked back at Bloom. {My friend died years ago. At least now… this monster she's become is beaten.}

It's over, Bloom. I've avenged you. …goodbye, old friend.

---

~x4x Arsonist~

PoV: Evangeline 'Eva' Morebucks

Location: Oozaru Bog Battlefield - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Searing Conflict

This is our moment!

Mom and I rushed forward in unison with Sylvia and Wilona by our sides. Tanya and some of the Shredders flew above us. They were all so fast, but I channeled power to my legs and kept pace. In my periphery I saw Clarabel and Marjorie take on their own opponents close to Mareeta's fight with Bloom. Just as we planned.

Cut off every head till the beast dies. Bloom is one, we hunt another.

Movement shifted from a branch we passed as an Ambipom and Oranguru emerged from some leaves to fire a storm of Swift stars at our backs. Sylvia's ears perked up as she whirled around, firing a Normalize powered Blizzard through the Swift. Its white frost howled past them all, blowing our assailants out of their perch. Wilona tore through the grass, the wind whistling behind her as she pinned them to the ground, slashing at them both blindly quick with False Swipe until they couldn't resist.

Petilil and Parasect ran over to them, binding the fallen before dragging them away as we searched for our true opponent. Riev had been assaulted by allied wild pokemon that had come to aid us in the fight. The Azumarill mother from Clearpool Pond charged at him with an Aqua Jet that he caught with his bare hands. Before he could slam her into the ground, Sliggoo set his back ablaze with Dragon Pulse, causing him to drop Azumarill so she could punch him with a water infused fist.

Regardless, they were still outnumbered and overpowered as a Primeape Cross Chopped Sliggoo's shell, who rolled away to avoid further damage. Dragalge sprayed two Simisage in poison allowing Kecleon to fry them with Psybeam, but both were hit by coconuts from behind by a pair of Passimian.

"That's quite enough!" I shouted as one of the Passimian prepared to pounce on Kecleon.

I flipped through the air, channeling air to cause me to spin faster as I drop kicked Passimian away from Kecleon. Mom meanwhile grabbed the coconuts, expertly hitting both Passimian in the head with them before elbowing the one I hadn't kicked, swiftly striking several pressure points to knock them out.

Masterful as always.

Our allies gathered around us as Riev's group gathered around him, each of us staring the other down.

{You really have a death wish, girlie. So eager to die you can't wait for your housepets to fight for you?} he spat.

"Enough with the housepet nonsense!" I scoffed. "I am here for many reasons, but personally I hope to beat some respect into you after the way you spoke to Marjorie and the rest of my family!"

Mom cracked her knuckles. "As for myself, I'm quite eager to act on that urge to break your arm from the other day. You should be grateful I have restraint, otherwise you'd be in far worse shape considering the tripe you blather towards my daughters."

{Good for fucking you,} he chuckled. {Showing restraint has never got me anywhere in life! You think I got my position by holding back, nope! I'm not a raving savage like Margrave or some difficult bitch like Ursula. Kakuen can always count on me to get the job done and right now, it's killing all of you.}

Sylvia hissed. {I'm not impressed.}

{You sure you're not a raving savage? You seem pretty easy to needle to me,} Tanya chuckled as she sent shards of stone flying towards him.

A pair of Primeape blocked the shards before charging at us alongside Riev. I clocked a third descending from the trees, while our allies took on the rest of his posse.

Sylvia and I stepped back together as the third Primeape closed in on us. I glanced at the bog behind us, an idea sparking. I took a deflective stance, inhaling deeply as I watched my charging opponent.

Watch his fist and guide it.

I repeated my mantra as he flung forward. With a choreographed strike, I led his palm away from my body and tripped him into the bog. He fell face first, spluttering wildly as Sylvia stepped forward. Channeling the environment's energy with Secret Power, she triggered an explosion via the swamp. We hid behind a tree to shield ourselves from the blast to find him fit enough to wretch himself from the bog and glare at us angrily.

Sylvia stepped forward, this time freezing him and the bog in place until they were a giant frozen statue. I looked down to make sure he didn't get the strength to get back up when Sylvia pushed me out of the way of a stray fireball. I landed on my rear to see Riev had managed to fire one off as he engaged my mom and Wilona in combat alongside his allies.

That brute never stops.

We ran forward to see Mom and Wilona handling the Primeape easily, even with Riev throwing in some fire. Annoyingly for him, it was hard to use it when Mom and Wilona kept pushing his allies into his own attacks. Frustrated, he thumped his chest, alerting the Primeape duo. They stepped back while two Simisear's heads poked out from the leaves above, spraying fire onto Mom and Wilona's heads.

They both darted to either side in perfect unison, running up the trees and besetting the Simisear before they could escape. Wilona slashed at one while mom hit the other's pressure points, and both fell from the branches as the two jumped down.

{I take it you're the least enthused about not setting the land ablaze,} Wilona groaned, shrugging mockingly. {I would have hoped you are capable of learning, but clearly not.}

Even more incensed, Riev pounded his chest twice, commanding the Primeape to begin launching stone shards at Mom and Wilona. They easily dodged of course, except once again from the trees a pair of Oranguru used psychokinesis to send them right back at their backs. Riev didn't stop here, inhaling as much air as he could and bellowing fire wherever they might run towards.

Tanya chose that moment to rake her axes across Riev's back in an x, a stone spire erupting from the earth below him and launching him into the waiting claws of the Sky Shredders. Mom and Wilona took that opportunity to retaliate, Wilona blasting the Oranguru with a Hyper Beam and mom effortlessly pinning the Primeape to the ground, knocking them out in quick succession.

They move so seamlessly, defeating multiple opponents so easily. Yet we can only do so much…

The rustle of leaves above announced Riev's sudden re-entrance, and swift reintroduction with the earth. As he plummeted, mom quickly determined where exactly he would fall and stood ready. As he crashed through the canopy, she crouched before launching up, jamming her elbow directly into the center of his forearm. It snapped like a twig, Riev's eyes going wide as he slammed into the ground. His arm lay limply at the side, now completely useless.

Mom glared down at him coldly. "Insult my family again. See where it gets you."

That's what he bloody well deserves. Go Mom! Let that be a lesson to any who ridicules a Morebucks.

He writhed on the ground, gasping in anguish, reaching for something as he gripped his head in agony. He appeared to be talking to someone.

Telepathy? Topaz did say some Darmanitan have psychic abilities.

{I don't care if Bloom is getting a log shoved up her ass. Help me first or I'll shove my burning shit down your- AGH!}

His demands cut off as his body began to glow in pink energy. His fur gradually began to turn blue, his limbs moving on their own, even his broken arm. Sylvia and I observed in confusion as the energy in the air began to pulse madly. Mom and Wilona took on cautionary stances when a wave of energy burst from Riev. Sylvia and I blocked to withstand the wave, but were knocked back into a tree, landing painfully on the ground.

We each groaned in annoyance as we each slowly lifted ourselves off the ground, coming face to face with a stony, rotund creature floating over us. They had a body similar to Darmanitan, yet it was much more compact and their expression was distressed.

Mom glanced back at me quickly. "Zen Mode, better psychic ability! Defend!"

Riev began to shudder with psychic energy as I looked to my left and right to find two Oranguru flanking us, raising their fans into the air. I prepared myself for impact when Sylvia leapt to her feet and projected a Protect surrounding both of us. As soon as she did, an immense pressure pounded on the orb from all sides, cracking the ground around us.

I fell to my knees, watching the three psychics attempt to crush us with Sylvia giving it her all to hold out. I turned to Mom and Wilona only to find them dealing with even more of the reinforcements called over, but they were cutting each one down viscerally to get closer to us. I grit my teeth, my head pounding as I watched Sylvia's body strain from keeping the Protect from shattering under the pressure.

Why why why!? What is the point of learning magic if I still need to constantly be protected. I've worked so unbelievably hard and yet I still feel useless!

The Protect orb grew smaller causing me to fall to my knees, admonishing myself and wondering how long we could hold out.

Topaz, Violet, Jade… they all handle themselves so well and have equally spectacular pokemon alongside them. Mom and Wilona have a wealth of experience and power that shines through everyday. Yet what can I do for my team? What can I do as myself?

All those hours spent practicing, the training drills, joining Mom on expeditions, learning to fight alongside my pokemon? Yet I'm as useless here as I was against Ursula. Why am I always the weakest link? Why am I never good enough!?

{Eva, don't call yourself useless!} Sylvia shrieked, bringing me out of my stupor as she held the barrier. I had shut out the world in my self loathing, forgetting where I was. {I know you think you messed up, but we still have to try! Even when everyone bullied you at school, you never let them win! You've never let anyone bully you or your family without letting them have it! I'm your family, so please! Fight for me!}

I looked up at my partner, shaking the doubts out my head as I reached for her.

They say the toughest prison to break out of is your mind… I mustn't let my insecurities ruin me when it matters most. I can still try, even if it's pointless. I can never forget who suffers when I crumble. If she can power through her insecurities, so can I. I need to stand up for Sylvia.

"Pardon my lapse!" I shouted, smiling slightly. "I'm just under a lot of pressure right now!"

{Pffft,} Sylvia held back a laugh, as we both enjoyed the dark humor of the situation considering our foes were attempting to crush us.

Yet, that little joke was all we needed. Sylvia laughed as her Silk Scarf shone, the Protect shield growing larger and thicker, pushing our enemies back. I watched in wonder as its power pushed through the psychic pressure.

I raised my hands into the air, manifesting an azure glow. "Ready?"
{Set.}

"Go!" I shouted as Sylvia dispelled the Protect and I clapped my hands together, expelling a strong gust blowing our adversaries away.

Riev slammed into a tree, but we wanted his lackeys first.

Sylvia leapt towards the left Oranguru, dispelling their counterattack by slapping them in the face with Fake Out. Her tail glowed white using Copycat as she emulated Gravity over Oranguru, pushing their head into the ground. To finish them off, she walked onto their back, digging her claws deep into them as she leaned towards their nape.

Oranguru's eyes widened as a white ball of ghost energy began to manifest in Sylvia's maw, before she fired a volley of Shadow Balls point blank. Once finished, she scampered off their back innocently, Oranguru's body burned by normal energy.

Meanwhile, I dashed towards the Oranguru that flanked my right. I saw them send a psychic wave my way, but by enhancing my speed I dodged their attack before clotheslining them to the ground. Now downed, I spun in the air before violently elbow dropping them in the gut. Oranguru reached for the sky, gasping for air as I raised my hand, concentrating energy.

I leered over them. "I promise this will hurt."

Opening my palm, I smashed it straight into Oranguru's face. The force of my attack cracked the ground through their head. Once confirmed limp, I stepped over them and convened with Sylvia.

I was exhaling harder than expected as I looked down at her. She had suddenly gotten stronger, but I hadn't used any magic to empower her.

Was the advice Mom given us so literal? I truly just had to believe in my partner?

Riev's distress grew at the sight of our success.

{Surprised, Riev? Even a housepet can fight back, ya know,} Sylvia taunted.

"I can't believe a troglodyte such as yourself made me question my worth. I won't undermine myself any longer; it's time we seize the initiative!" I declared.

Riev fired flames at us in panic, floating towards the trees. Sylvia and I separated, dashing towards him with feline swiftness. I watched Sylvia scale a tree in seconds, leaping from branch to branch before slashing Riev with razor sharp claws out of the sky.

Following up her set-up, I danced through the air as I caught him mid descent. I wrapped myself around his body, ignoring his heat as I manifested wind magic to rush us downward. I could feel Riev try to pry me off with psychic energy, but I held on tighter, skybombing him headfirst into the ground below.

The impact sent me careening through the sky along with grass, mud and whatever else had erupted. I hit the ground rolling while Sylvia jumped from the trees to assist me. As I pushed myself off the ground, I saw two more Primeape hot on her tail.

I opened my mouth to warn her when Tanya swooped down from above, axes gleaming bright white with winds swirling around her. She landed with a thud on the ground, carving a crescent of pinpoint accuracy to cleave both Primeape to the ground. She glanced back, gave a small grin at me and Sylvia, and proceeded to cleave once more into their forms, leaving them limp upon the ground.

Thank you.

Sylvia turned to me and began ringing her tail, sending a healing chime my way. {That was amazing, Eva! We sure showed him!}

I rubbed my arms, noting my clothes had been damaged through my magical barrier. "Hopefully my sentiments were pounded deep enough into his skull."

Although, is it over? His body was as solid as stone.

"I'd say so, but no reason to not drive the point home," Mom said as she jogged over, Wilona by her side. Mom held my hands, noting my singed clothing and gloves. "Are you alright? I knew you could handle them, but you can always lean on me when it's too much."

I pushed the stray hairs out of my face. I didn't have a mirror, but from the neck down I looked quite haggard. "It was just a tumble, Mom. Far from enough to stop me."

{And you, Sylvia? Are you still ready to fight?} Wilona asked, fixing her daughter's fur.

{Of course, this is nothing!} Sylvia boasted.

Once our mothers were assured of our wellbeing, the crater from whence Riev had laid burst open with flames. His expression upturned to even greater distress, his red flames turning blue and lashing about. His next wave of reinforcements backed off at the sight.

Overheat? He intends to burn everything to the ground… why must they resort to arson at every opportunity. Such irresponsible use of flame.

Mom let out an irritated sigh, Wilona looking at myself and Sylvia. {I propose we finish this as one, before he has any other bright ideas. Are you prepared?}

I clenched my fists, enveloping myself in a blue glow, blowing my hat off. My hair flowed through the azure wind I created elegantly. I held out my hands, surrounding them in flesh rending gales. "Quite."

Sylvia raised her haunches as she got ready to pounce, her claws extending white. {We'll race ya!}

Mom chuckled. "Then let our race against flames begin."

We all rushed forward, Wilona blasting away the flames with a chilling blast of water. Before they could reform, we were upon Riev, and I used my wind to channel them away. Into the ground where they couldn't hurt anyone.

Mom, Wilona and Sylvia all set upon Riev's stony exterior, Mom and Wilona with claws of stone while Sylvia cut in with much deserved Payback. The moment Riev's focus was broken, the flames sputtering out, I joined in with blades of wind.

The stone coating began cracking, the cracks spreading further and further as our assault continued. Wilona let out a howl, a larger gem lodging itself where the cracks spiderwebbed out.

As one, we all pulverized it, sending a spray of gem dust across Riev's form. The stone shattered, the blue fur beneath turning back to red as he was launched back into one of the many trees he would have burned without a second thought. Its boughs shook as he lay slumped against it, his broken arm now laying limply on the ground once more. Although, considering his spasms, we had broken a few more bones.

Mom smiled at us. "Excellent work. I'm proud of you both."

{As am I,} Wilona purred. She spared a leering glance at Riev's unmoving form. {Unless he has some 'bastard slaver' desperation mode I am unaware of, I believe he's out of the fight.}

"Thank you," I smiled under the praise before turning back to Riev. "He doesn't care about anyone but himself. Not his brother, his subordinates and I doubt even his boss. If he knew better he wouldn't get up again if he could."

I relaxed, dispelling my magic, feeling my exhaustion. "That was quite intense though."

{But we pulled through! As ladies!} Sylvia cheered. I rubbed her back and scratched her ear, earning a pleased purr.

"As ladies of grace," I agreed, watching the Sky Shredders bind and collect all the pokemon we took down.

I can't recall myself or Sylvia ever fighting so fiercely. Or fighting so perfectly in sync with Mom and Wilona. Father will be ecstatic to hear about this when we return; until then…

I picked up my cowgirl hat, dusting it off and placing it firmly back on my head. "Shall we continue, Mom?"

She nodded back, giving me a smile. "Indeed we shall, my dear."

---

~x5x Remnant~

PoV: Lou the Vikavolt

Location: Oozaru Bog Battlefield - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Indolent Conflict

This war ends today.

We all moved out to our assigned opponents and I was ecstatic at the chance to face mine, but first we must group up. I flew towards Gautier and Flax, picking up one with my legs and the other climbing onto my back. Clarabel was to follow behind.

I glanced at the others making their move. Mareeta had claimed Bloom as her own and had already begun pounding the sense into her. She was a dangerous opponent, but I had seen Mareeta in action more than enough. Bloom was handled.

Evangeline and her family darted towards the red craven Riev. He spouted an intolerable amount of nonsense the day we met and was in need of learning respect. I've had my fill of his brother and felt no need to pursue the rest of the family.

No, I flew above the others towards the sloth queen and her lackeys. Ursula was still stuffing her face with restoratives that barely accomplished anything. The sight of her made me ill with rage, but this time I'd finish her off.

She glared up and pointed. {Fire!}

Yes, focus on me. I am your opponent.

A stream of ranged attacks were launched by Vigoroth, Simisage and more, but it was all so underwhelming as I dodged each one, diving straight for her. Flax and Gautier worked in tandem, creating a shroud of petals obscuring my true position whilst firing attacks in all directions.

To avoid damaging the land, I elected to avoid my more destructive ranged attacks, but I could still inflict so much damage up close. We bypassed Ursula's front lines, landing in the center of her forces. They all turned to face us, unsure whether to fire attacks directly into their own circle. Gautier and Flax jumped off of me as they shielded themselves in a Protect orb.

Now is my time.

My body shuddered with the charge I had saved up as I beat my wings violently. A shuddering shockwave of sound and bug energy crashed over our enemies in all directions, sending them flying. Once I had finished my widespread Bug Buzz, I observed the area for any damage. Fortunately, the environment was unharmed, our enemies quite harmed. Ursula was the only one among her group left standing, having blocked the attack.

Gautier dispelled his shield as he and Flax took a stand beside me.

{I understand you're incapable of fighting alone, but I believe your weaker allies would appreciate more forces,} I suggested as we could hear Mareeta smacking Bloom around in the background. I looked Ursula up and down. {But considering the state of you, I see why Kakuen felt you needed extra aid.}

She retained her usual unbothered, annoyed expression, but her bruises were apparent and heavy breathing all too clear. The weaknesses in her disposition were becoming more clear to me the longer I looked, which meant I knew exactly where to hurt her.

Donut may be lax, but he cares deeply. Ursula… this apathy is unhealthy.

She groaned, grabbing the rest of the berries and downing them in one gulp as she glared at me. {Can't just piss off and let me sleep, can you.}

{Someone else would hunt you down,} Flax reminded her.

{If you want to sleep so badly, why didn't you try to escape earlier and avoid all of this?} Gautier questioned. {Or even surrender?}

{Too much effort.}

{You won't get much out of this one,} I informed them, buzzing dangerously. {She cares for little.}

Flax turned around, eyeing some of her rising lackeys. {She no longer interests me as an opponent. Handle it yourself.}

He raised a hand to the air before tossing a large Weather Ball into a group of them, blasting them into disarray. Our wild pokemon allies took this chance to begin engaging with the rest before they could get up.

{Show her bug type might, Lou,} Gautier demanded as he followed after Flax, blocking the others with a psychic force that held many Vigoroth off from aiding her.

{That was always my intent,} I assured him, turning back to Ursula.

{As you've terrorized my General's mental wellbeing and the natives forced to serve you, I only find it fitting I break your spirit before I break your body. Have you ever been outclassed in raw might?}

I can't leave her unattended. All of her focus must be invested on surviving me.

She just gave me a bored look. {The scrawny kid's your general? Lame.}

{Mmmm…} I buzzed gently, her response instilling a new negative feeling within me as I eyed her for a new reason this time.

I will ensure I am present for her execution.

I launched myself forward, gunning for her neck. Her eyes shot open as she took a proper stance, grabbing my mandibles before I could behead her and holding me back. I considered pushing more, but this was enough for now.

Hmmm, good resistance even in this sorry state. I see why Roland warned me about her kind.

She narrowed her eyes, beginning to try and force my mandibles apart.

{Intent on finishing me quickly, I see,} I noted casually as I could feel her pour all her strength in trying to tear me in half. Naturally, I didn't budge. Her face was strained with effort as she wrenched as hard as she could, while I casually stared at her not feeling a thing. I decided to give her some guidance. {I'm a mentor on battle operations and tactics. May I offer you some advice?}

{Fuck off,} was her response as she kept straining.

I frowned. {You're not utilizing any moves? This could've been resolved already. You're capable of Fire Punch, yes? I am a bug type. Burn me as you pry me open.}

She ignored me, using the leverage she had to instead try and slam me into the ground. Having predicted this response, I maneuvered my body so I angled upward allowing me to apply more force forward. With this I managed to push her on back, unable to get up easily lest I slice off her head. Of course, my intent wasn't to kill her, but she had to work for the right to survive somewhat.

{And see where you've ended up. If only you had used a move earlier. Now I am applying force directly into you,} I noted calmly as the battle raged on in the background.

{Do you ever shut up?} She growled, arms glowing with brown energy as she threw me off of her, pushing herself to her feet once more.

Reversal… it had some oomph. She will not last long.

{If I had known this is what you were capable of I would've fought you initially,} I buzzed, glaring at her dangerously. {Allowing you to run amok for so long was a mistake on my part.}

{So no,} she muttered, staying on guard but not launching forward as she had two days ago.

I began charging a ranged attack to observe how she'd react. She groaned again, but began shoveling huge fistfuls of dirt as she tunneled beneath the earth.

Did Bloom never teach her that my species thrives underground? She clearly intends to stay down there until she's rested.

I took a moment to observe the situation around me in case I was needed elsewhere.

Clarabel was panic stampeding through attacks with her body coated in metal. Our wild pokemon allies, including a Doublade and Spritzee, stayed by her side to prevent any from stopping her assault. Two Vigoroth attempted to halt her, but she closed her eyes, shooting two rock spires into their backs and slamming their bodies into her metal hide. Eyeing her unconscious enemies nervously, she ran headfirst towards Mareeta's group.

For a personality so unsuited for combat, she's quite capable. I must commend her on all her efforts once this is done.

By Mareeta's end she was assaulting Bloom with a bevy of objects ala Marjorie's aid.

Her revenge is moving along smoothly. Soon she will have closure.

Evangeline and Sylvia were overwhelming Riev and his Oranguru excellently.

Riev will soon know why you do not disrespect an Alolan's family.

I turned around to find Flax swinging through the trees using his vines to outpace the Vigoroth. When they got too close he'd manipulate the vines to wrap them up before he stabbed each one with a poison needle, leaving them writhing in agony on the ground. If one angered him especially, he embedded an axe made of thorns into their body and dragged them through the swamp.

I wonder how I'd fare in a battle against Flax as we are now? He's quite skilled now, it would be a great bout.

Gautier was mostly supporting, accompanied with a bevy of allied wild pokemon. Whilst his fighting style wasn't direct, any physical attacker that struck him was met with Iron Defense and Body Press. Whenever he was in danger he Ally Switched with a friendly Dusclops eager to humble normal types. And if he ever took too much damage he healed it away with Recover.

Gautier wields his current body with expertise, playing well into his strengths. Ahhh, my days as a Charjabug. I must introduce him to the Compound Corps soon.

Once I finished observing the others, I began clicking, noting her location and interestingly enough quite a bit of water beside her.

{Can't run, can't hide,} I vowed, as I snapped mandibles and drilled through the mud as easily as flying through the sky.

Faster than one could blink, I slammed into Ursula. Her eyes bugged out in surprise, but she had little time to register what was happening.

I clamped my mandibles on either side of her torso, continuing to drill through the earth. Her body was less efficient, but that merely meant more retribution for upsetting the General. She began struggling to take breaths, holding them as long as she was able.

I clamped harder, forcing her to attempt to breathe more often right as I drilled beneath the bog. The sudden rush of mud and water did nothing, merely rushing around my form. Ursula was not so fortunate, as she struggled to keep her lungs from filling with the marsh she sought to take.

After she had been suitably waterboarded, I drilled upwards. We burst through the surface of the bog, quickly rising into the sky above. The few branches that she hit on the way up were ones that had been previously coated with thorns by Flax.

For the culture, as the General would say.

Breaking through the canopy above, the shining sun above glared down at the filth I had just brought within its visage. She was a gasping wreck, barely able to breathe, much less fight back. It was time for the finishing touch. I couldn't give her the chance of rising up again and crushing another skull.

I flew higher and higher as my body began shimmering a spectrum. Colors danced across the clouds as my mandibles charged up my finest Signal Beam. Ursula was fighting to stay conscious due to the sudden altitude change, but I promised her she'd return to the ground soon enough.

Begone.

A rainbow burned against her as I clenched her body, so she could not escape. She howled in agony as lights filled the sky. The clouds were blown back by the impact of the blast until everything was enveloped by a blinding sheen. I stared at her limp, dirty, unconscious body, charred and broken. Most of her fur had been burned off and her wounds stung against the air.

I scanned her neurological system to find they were thoroughly overwhelmed with pain.

How many potions must she guzzle to recover this damage?

Assured she was incapacitated, I brought her back to the marsh and dumped her in the mud. I then scanned the battlefield around me to see her troops being rounded up by our overwhelming forces.

{What took so long?} Flax spoke up as he walked over beside Gautier and Clarabel.

{I wished to gauge my capabilities against a high level enemy threat and completely annihilate her chances of recouping,} I stated, frowning. {Although, she was not at full strength, so it was not a suitable examination of my progress. Nonetheless, she is sufficiently broken in both body and mind.}

{Regardless of her state, well done, Lou. She stood absolutely no chance,} Gautier complimented me. He buzzed sheepishly. {I see why everyone respects you.}

{Even if you are terrifying… but you're also really nice. It's a nice mix,} Clarabel whispered.

I nodded towards Gautier. {I saw you accomplish much on your own. I have my own advice, but for another time.}

I then faced Clarabel, who flinched. {My apologies for my frightful demeanor, it was about sending a message. Although, I believe you could handle me better than you might think.}

Clarabel smiled as I turned to Flax. {I've seen what you can do, Flax… now show me more.}

Flax gave me a devious smile as we turned to face more enemies. The war was not over.

---

~x6x Vitriol~

PoV: Donut the Pikachu

Location: Oozaru Bog Battlefield - Great Marsh

Time: March - Day 5 - Merciless Conflict

Here we go again…

Mareeta, Eva and Lou's groups each went their own way, while I went my own. The three leaders they were matched with stood no chance, so my group had to put in the work to say the same. Topaz stuck close to me, while Jade stuck close to Shizu. Cenza and Rheneas looked out for each other as a unit.

Pretty light for a strikeforce, but Shizu said to speak for myself. Meanwhile, Topaz assured me this was more than enough power, along with the allied wild pokemon assisting. Usually I'd agree, but I wasn't really in the mood to be fighting for my life again.

Every other Primeape has gone down pretty easily, right? Just want a nice, quick win.

The ground quaked, and I saw Margrave barreling towards us. Me, specifically. His eye was a pinprick, zeroed in on me, and his anger shook the earth.

Ummmmm…

"Stomping Tantrum! Slow down his assault! It gets stronger the angrier he gets!" Topaz warned us.

Okay, that's a new move. Slow him down, sure, can do.

I charged up my tail and flung a small electric spear of Thunder Wave to slow him down while Shizu summoned purple wisps of flame in case that didn't work. Annoyingly enough, a Darmanitan blocked the Will-o-Wisp and a Simisage tanked the Thunder Wave, allowing Margrave to blow right past them.

Now they wanna work as a team, okay.

Margrave's gaze flicked for a moment to Topaz, but focused back on me, fists glowing harshly in orange energy as he let loose a flurry of blows. I danced around his fists easily, every impact causing a small crater.

{Why do you have to RUIN EVERYTHING!?}

I jumped back, watching him snort in unbridled fury.

{Uhh… cuz you're evil. Is this a trick question or do you not realize how much of a jackass you are?} I questioned.

"We're not fighting you because we enjoy it," Topaz answered. "It's because everywhere you go countless others suffer. You've upturned too many lives for your crimes to go without punishment."

"And because you're a jackass," Jade added.

He turned his attention to Topaz, running at him full tilt. {WE FIGHT TO LIVE, AND YOU ALWAYS RUIN IT!}

Topaz pushed Jade out of Margrave's path, eyeing something far behind Margrave. Despite the incoming threat, his body relaxed before it was enveloped in a psychic distortion. Margrave jumped to catch him, but before he could reach him he was gone and replaced by the much smaller Cenza.

When did Cenza get so good at Ally Switch? Hmmm… well we have been fighting a lot. She must've gotten stronger through our battles.

He flew way over her head allowing Cenza to smack his back with a U-turn and Shizu to step in and set his ass on fire. Meanwhile, Topaz was safely standing next to Rheneas. He glanced towards the Darmanitan and Simisage coming towards us though.

I got on all fours to take them down, but Topaz held a hand up as he turned to Rheneas. "Can you trip them up with Confusion?"

I raised a brow.

I can handle them both in seconds. Why's he asking Rheneas to help?

{I'll try,} she said back, side eyeing Margrave. Currently he was constantly charging at Cenza, but his attacks lacked precision and I've trained her personally in evasive maneuvers. Meanwhile, Jade tossed a bevy of balloons at Margrave, disrupting his movements and allowing Shizu to set him ablaze. {He's kinda… big.}

"He's a big bastard. Let's take these two out now and then handle him," Topaz assured her as he pointed towards Darmanitan and Simisage. "They won't notice your psychic pulse traveling across the ground. Have it glide toward them smoothly and they'll crash hard. It doesn't have to be fast, so take your time. You've got this."

She looked back at the two, concentrating for a moment before sending a shimmering pulse of psychic energy floating over the ground towards them. As expected, both were too focused on us to see what was at their feet as they each began charging their fists.

Right when they were about to take a leap, Rheneas pushed her psychic tripwire a bit further, slamming into their feet and sending them tumbling into a patch of swamp goop.

"Donut now!" Topaz called.

I dashed forward with Rollout, closing the distance between us in seconds. Darmanitan had fallen on top of Simisage and was too stunned to even realize I was coming.

I leapt into the air, spinning fast like a buzz saw before smashing directly into his back and digging into the ground. Neither could reach me from where I was located as I buried them deep into the bog before spinning out.

"Perfectly executed," Topaz praised us both.

I looked at Topaz's confident smile and Rheneas surprise at her own abilities, but her face beamed with pride. Seems like she got a confidence boost.

Is that why he had her attack first? To show her what she can do. I see… he's done the same with everyone he's trained countless times. Is that what it means to be a trainer too? Teaching us how strong we can be?

But her joy didn't last long as Shizu was sent crashing through the dirt, Margrave screeching in fury with his hands still glowing orange, before the energy coated his whole body and changed hue. His body was totally singed and covered with burns, but he stomped along unphased. With only his eye visible, he started bulldozing right for me again.

Jade and Cenza were a safe distance away handling some of Margrave's reinforcements with several Roselia, Heliolisk, Pyroar and Sky Shredders aiding us this time.

Whenever anyone took too much damage Jade tossed his recovery balloons and it'd splash multiple of our allies, sending them right back into the fray. Whenever he was targeted, Cenza switched places with him and countered. One of the Oranguru tried to be sneaky and attack Jade after he switched, but a Heliolisk zapped them and Jade threw a toxic balloon at them. Judging by his smug smirk, he was enjoying his impressive plays.

Why do I feel like they've got the easier job?

{How is he moving!?} I demanded, pointing to the psychotic ape.

Shizu got up and snarled. {The fucker ran through my flames, picked me up and threw me! Should've cursed his ass for all the shit he pulled. I was winning, but then he saw you and went nuts!}

Despite our panic, Topaz remained calm, analyzing the situation. I wasn't sure how that was possible considering what was happening, but I guess trainers train for this? Or maybe he was too busy overanalyzing our dire circumstances to look scared.

"Primeape compensates for their mediocre fighting abilities with unbridled rage. The angrier they are, the less likely they are to quit," he explained.

That's really cheap. Throwing a tantrum doesn't mean you get to win fights.

"Rheneas, blow your strongest Whirlwind," Topaz asked.

She didn't need to be told twice, her pearl glowing brightly as she spun a howling gust of wind at Margrave. He did not care, only barely being slowed down as he kept rushing forward.

{That's not enough, what next?} Shizu demanded.

"We bomb him. Profusely," Topaz said casually as he threw many different grenades into the whirlwind, blowing them right into Margrave's face. The bombs exploded into pink, magenta and cyan light seemingly representing different elements, doing a surprising amount of damage to Margrave. He blocked most of them once he realized they hurt, but they clearly dizzied him.

What the hell did Vika put in these grenades?

"Cut the Whirlwind and switch to Psybeam," Topaz ordered as he pulled out more grenades. "Donut, Thunderbolt. Shizu, Flamethrower. We're hitting him from every angle till he charges Donut. Once he does, we hit him where he's most vulnerable and make sure he goes down. Donut, keep him on your tail and we'll keep hounding him. He's more resilient than we expected, but this should be enough."

So he just knows he's gonna target me, huh?

Rheneas ended the whirlwind, her pearl glowing bright pink as it shot a psychedelic beam forward. I ran to one side of Margrave, shocking him, while Shizu ran to another, bathing him in flames. Topaz grappled into the trees and began bombing Margrave from above, staying on the move.

Margrave screeched in rage, pummeling the ground in fury. Stones and chunks of dirt shot up, obstructing our attacks. And the second he wasn't being hurt anymore, his good eye darted around rabidly.

Will he come for me again? Prolly. Maybe I could mess up his good eye. Hinder his vision. There's too many smells to differentiate us all and the fights are too loud. We'll nail him then.

He zeroed in on me and clambered at full speed.

{I'm always right…} I sighed as I charged towards him with Quick Attack, slamming into his left leg bringing him to a knee and blowing right past. He whirled around to strike at me again, but he was far too slow as I pushed myself off the ground and Thunderpunched directly into his eye.

His bad eye.

I could sense my electricity lance straight through his head, scrambling his messed up brain even further. His eye patch singed in my hands.

Fuck. Wrong eye. Why'd he have to tilt his head at the last second?

I grit my teeth as I jumped away before he started throwing another tantrum.

His good eye bugged out, arms suddenly bulking up. I saw red literally in his eye, the veins probably bursting as he let out an unholy howl of pure rage. It actually made a shockwave, blowing back dirt and mud from around him as veins pulsed furiously across his body.

Topaz landed on a branch closeby, eyeing the scene with genuine concern. "Damnit! Donut, his ability is Anger Point! Hitting his eye triggered Anger Point! Do not let him hit you!"

So I hit his weakness and instead of giving up he gets stronger? Does the bullshit ever end!?

The ground shuddered, and within a second he was on top of me, frothing at the mouth, eye jittering around in a crazed fervor as he went to grab me.

What the fuuuuuck!?

I ducked under his attack, but he was already reaching for me again with his other arm. I pushed off his arm and pushed myself away with a Brick Break infused tail.

I'm guessing Tickle won't work here, huh?

Next thing I knew I was running for my life. Quick Attack was saving my ass as I dashed through the entire battlefield, my heart pumping out of my chest because somehow he was keeping up with me with sheer rage. Everything he passed was blown out of his way. Tree stumps, boulders, his own allies, nothing could stop him. Our wild allies tried to stop him, but he blew right past him.

Somehow I managed to run back to the others. Looking around for someone to help me. I saw Jade wielding a balloon, ready to toss it, I just needed to not be in range.

{Donut, over here!} I saw Rheneas, her pearl glowing pink like how she used Confusion, directing me over.

She can trip him again… but she needs a better angle.

I began to lead Margrave horizontally before Rheneas, so she could slip in her psychic tripwire and I could get a break. She threw out the biggest pulse of psychic energy she could, and it did trip up Margrave. He then proceeded to howl in fury, slam the ground, and launch himself forward spinning through the air to try and grab me again.

Why is this happening to me specifically!?

Just when I thought I had to keep running, Shizu leapt through the air and tackled Margrave off course, purple flames wreathing her form. She landed on his back and spewed eerie black flames where he was most vulnerable. Margrave reacted viscerally to that, swiping them off and forcing Shizu to retreat, but now exhaling some Smog.

Those were cursed flames, right? They didn't seem to stick… maybe cuz he's a fighting type?

Either way, she wasn't done. Her body burned red as she released a giant fireball with five spiraling trails behind it. The fire ignited the Smog and consumed Margrave in a searing hot explosion that leveled the ground where he stood.

Jade ran closer to us, tossing a balloon that exploded some energizing liquid over us.

{Thanks…} I wheezed.

Okay, now I can catch my breath.

Shizu took on another battle stance. {Don't thank me yet.}

He exploded out of the fireball, his body charred black and exposed burns all over his body as tore up the earth beneath him in chunks as he barreled towards me. Shizu pushed me out of the way and spat a Flamethrower at him, but his power boosted Bulldoze took the brunt of it as he uppercutted her out of his way. She flew through the sky, trying to register the truck that blew past her.

"Shizu, fuck!" Jade shouted as he recalled her to her pokeball, before summoning her back beside him to heal. She immediately fell to the ground in shock, clearly dazed by the fullpower Bulldoze. Jade began applying a Revive, while our wild allies covered him.

"Shizu… no…" Topaz cursed himself as he looked for a new avenue of attack. "Donut, stay moving! Make use of your ranged advantage and fry him till our back-up can get a chance to hit him!"

Cenza and Rheneas all inched closer to assist, but I held up my hand in protest. They couldn't handle him like this. I grit my teeth, charging up several more lancets of Thunder Wave, throwing them all at Margrave. I just needed a break.

Damnit Shizu… playing hero ain't like you.

Margrave almost seemed to eat them as he thundered towards me, throwing mounds of dirt at me along with fallen trees like they were rubber balls. The insanity of the situation was too much as I now had to bob and weave flying lumber as he tried to kill me.

Okay so he's 100% burned which means his attack is halved… yet he's still got the boosts from Anger Point, so not sure that matters much.

As I kept running, hoping Topaz would come up with a solution to solve my predicament, I noticed some of the pokemon from Rosary Sanctum were fending off their own group of Simipour. They had some help from the much larger Ursaring, Grotle and Quilava, but the Chimchar, Grookey and Flabebe were giving it their all regardless.

And I was leading Margrave towards them.

Everything seemed to slow down as I processed all the bullshit that was happening. If I didn't attempt to stop Margrave now he could fuck up everyone else. Other pokemon that can't handle what I can, but came here to fight anyway. Pokemon that I had helped, inspired even, just like how I had for Cenza.

And now the pokemon who I was supposed to save them from, was gonna crash into them.

I looked around desperately for Topaz, but he was out of sight. I wanted to use the telepathic link, but I couldn't even concentrate on anything but running.

I looked back at Chimchar thunderpunching a Simipour in the throat, causing them to choke on their Hydro Pump. Grookey beating back whoever came too close to her friend with Wood Hammer. The many Flabebe disrupting the enemies with Fairy Wind, whilst supporting their stronger friends.

Do you have to make tough calls like these all the time, Topaz? Balance our lives in our hands? Is that what Lou has to do with the Corps? Is this… what it means to be a leader?

I ran behind a boulder and held up my hands, remembering everything Amethyst taught me, summoning a psychic barrier around my body. Then I expanded it, making a true dome of Reflect. I could never quite get Protect down, but this… this I learned from a friend.

God I hope I survive.

Margrave slammed through the boulder and into Reflect. I felt the shudder of it under his raw force, and bright white cracks splintering through it. It took two punches for him to smash it like a pane of glass, a gloved hand shooting out and grabbing me.

Instantaneously, by sheer instinct, I manifested a thinner one around my body and held out my hands so he couldn't crush me between his giant fists. My Light Ball strained as it fed me extra physical strength so he couldn't actually manage to squish me in his paws as I began shocking with all the electricity I could spare.

I saw his eye stained with blood, saw him foaming at the mouth, felt him shudder in unmitigated fury, snorting incomprehensibly.

Yet for some reason, I wasn't afraid. I've always been told I was too lax, but the exhaustion had begun to hit me. Not from just today, but every day. All the fighting, the hatred, the dying. I went through it all, but I've been so tired. I just wanted to rest… to be at peace. I was holding back simply because I reflexively had no urge to die, but I wasn't sure I had the willpower to outlast him.

His good eye darted ever so slightly to the side, and I saw it shrink even more, felt his muscles shudder. His grip on me tightened as I continued to push against him, frying him till his eyes began to bleed. Yet he would not stop.

He's spent all these months hating me and now he's so close to killing me. That much drive… can I ever compete with that? A regular Pikachu with no ambitions of his own? Powerful parents he's never felt the urge to compare himself to? Can I really hold back someone who'd sooner die than let me live?

I clenched my eyes tightly so as to not stare at him anymore, focusing only on survival. The pressure was intense, but I had to trust in my training that I could out damage him. It had to mean something.

{Get off of him!}

My eyes opened at Cenza's voice as she jumped directly onto Margrave's head. Her teeth glowed pure white, extending well past her body length as she dug them straight through his skull. Somehow, Margrave didn't let go of me right then and there, but he made an abhorrent sound.

As Cenza dug her teeth deeper, I looked up to see Topaz jumping off a tree branch, wielding his baton to its full length. He crashed it down on Margrave's gloves, the impact resounding around us as he actually loosened his grip.

Topaz scooped me into his arms with panic akin to when Caellach died, but this time he did not freeze as he jumped back. "You held on so well, Donut. I've got you."

"Cenza!" he shouted, alerting her to jump off as Margrave began reaching for his head.

Her teeth shrank back to normal as she scampered away, with him reaching towards her, ignoring the gaping wound in his skull. Yet despite his approach, she glared at him defiantly.

{You'll never take another person again!} she declared as she smacked him in the good eye with Play Rough.

Margrave shrieked madly as he started swinging wildly. Cenza danced around his blows as Topaz readied a smoke bomb to aid her escape. Yet something clocked within me.

Black electricity sparked from my red cheeks as a new surge of power welled. I could hear the Light Ball resonate and feed into my new desire to absolutely destroy this bastard.

"Donut?" Topaz questioned.

I jumped out of his arms, welcoming the black electricity as it consumed my entire being. It was the most intense charge I had ever felt, but I had never felt stronger.

{Hey jackass!} I shouted, hoping that brain injury hadn't made him deaf.

He turned around, too feral to speak, but eyes still wary enough to know he hated the sight of me.

No more holding back. No more taking it easy. This time? I TRY!

I glared at him with all the hate I had for people like him. I might not aspire to be my parents, but that doesn't mean I can't give it my all.

{This is my motivation!}

I took a single step forward and the next I was barreling into his chest. I became a crackling rocket, slamming him through brush, logs, bog and boulders, but I never stopped pushing. Despite my output and his injuries, he pounded away at my body, but I held strong. Now it was my turn to push through the pain.

I pushed him with all my might until I could no longer control myself. I released the charge with a point blank eruption of black lightning. We were both thrown backwards, my body recoiling in agony from my first attempt at Volt Tackle. Topaz and Cenza swung in from the grappling hook, picking me up gently as we faced Margrave.

His body was embedded into a giant boulder, sparking with ebon electricity. His eardrums had burst, both his eyes were bleeding excessively and his fur had been singed black. The boulder itself was cracked, threatening to collapse.

Yet he could still see. He could still see the ones that had gotten away, never to be caught. He snarled something unintelligible, reaching for us with a shaky glove.

Calm down, Margrave. Let go of your anger. Choose life.

His own anger began to burst blood vessels as he tried to force his body to keep chasing us.

And then his pupil vanished.

All that was left was the white of his eyes. His mouth, previously foaming madly, fell slack.

The thud of him hitting the ground made my fur stand on end. But instead of heavy footfalls, he'd fallen face first onto the ground. His limbs were slack, and his veins no longer pulsed.

We waited, watching him for a second. Then longer, waiting for him to push himself up, continue his assault.

He didn't.
He lay still, eerily calm after the unending chaos from moments before.

"Is he…?" Topaz questioned.

{Yes,} Cenza answered as we all stared at him before turning to me, placing a hand on my paw. {Thank you.}

My body spasmed from the pain, but I managed a lax smile for her. {Anything to inspire.}

They say Primeape only find peace in death. Yet all we saw before us was abject despair.

---

A/N: To Amaruk1701 who wanted Donut to learn Volt Tackle. Thank you for the idea. Let's see if I can incorporate your other wish into the story soon.

---

Group

Gym Trainer: Topaz Heart

Brothers in Arms: Lou (Vikavolt), Donut (Pikachu), Holyn (Cranidos).

Deck: Fool, Devil, Strength, Hermit, Fortune, Hierophant.

x

Human Companion: Violet

Pokemon Family: Amethyst (MeowsticF), Zenara (Mareep), Cenza (Dedenne).

x

Blooming Celebrity: Jade Forrest

Co-Stars: Flax (Roselia), Shizu (Houndoom), Gautier (Dottler).

X

Aspiring Lady: Evangeline 'Eva' Morebucks

Ladies of Grace: Marjorie (Steenee), Sylvia (Delcatty), Clarabel (Lairon).

X

Mistresses of Grace: Isadora Morebucks & Wilona the Persian

X

Allies: Meliae (Tropius), Rheneas (Spoink), Mareeta (Passimian), Tanya (Kleavor), Lyle and Alkali the Toxicroak, Great Marsh Natives.