Lapis' journey to the sea took a terrestrial detour as he was forced to return to Mt. Chimney. There, he ran into Weldon Leland, who was helping a strange woman named Trinity infiltrate the secret Team Magma Hideout. With the Nuzlocker's help, and hindrance, the group made it inside and traveled deep into the volcano. There, Team Magma Admin Tabitha tried to stop them, but was defeated by Lapis and a sleeping dart. Lapis then had to battle the group's leader Maxie after awakening Groudon. It was another easy victory, but Lapis' journey will be getting harder after returning to Lilycove City to regroup. What news awaits him there?

Lapis' Pokémon:

Zuli (Lvl. 42 Swampert, male; Item: Soft Sand): Impish Nature, Torrent Ability, moves: Tackle, Strength, Mud Shot, Surf

Bixbite (Lvl. 42 Camerupt, male): Bold Nature, Oblivious Ability, moves: Rock Slide, Tackle, Ember, Earthquake

Onyx (Lvl. 42 Mightyena, female; Item: King's Rock): Mild Nature, Intimidate Ability, moves: Tackle, Rock Smash, Sand Attack, Bite

Pearl (Lvl. 42 Grumpig, female): Lax Nature, Thick Fat Ability, moves: Psychic, Psybeam, Shock Wave, Confuse Ray

Celestite (Lvl. 42 Altaria, female): Gentle Nature, Natural Cure Ability, moves: Fly, Safeguard, Take Down, Dragonbreath

Amethyst (Lvl. 42 Gloom, female; Item: Miracle Seed): Quiet Nature, Chlorophyll Ability, moves: Absorb, Acid, Poisonpowder, Moonlight

Pokémon sent to the PLA: Tiger Eyes (Linoone, male), Citrine (Makuhita, female), Kyanite (Electrike, female), Moonstone (Swellow, female), SmokyQuarz (Numel, male)

Chapter 35: Cementing a New Path

The next day, as Lapis and Weldon exited the Lilycove City Pokémon Center, Magma arrived on a Tropius Taxi.

"They're very handy for travel, aren't they?" the undercover agent remarked.

The Nuzlocker rolled his eyes. "If only I knew," he muttered.

"Everything go okay, Magma?" Weldon asked.

"Yeah. Trinity and I were able to leave without Team Magma noticing. But it'll still be best to pretend like we weren't involved for now. Who knows if they're around, watching us?"

"Got it. Lapis, why don't you head over to our meeting spot at the department store first?"

"What 'bout you, Leland?"

"If this is our only day left in Lilycove City, there's one last thing I need to do."

"Thought you got everythin' done with Scorcher."

The Kantonian crossed his arms and looked serious. "I was going to do it then but couldn't with the sudden call to Mt. Chimney. I'll join you later."

"Fine, see ya."

Lapis walked along the main streets toward the department store. It was bustling as usual, but along the way, he noticed a few police officers watching him.

What's up with them?

Suddenly, he was slammed into a wall by an angry Inspector Caspian.

"Where is she, you punk?!"

"H-Hey! What the hell're you doin'?" the teen protested.

Lapis glanced around to see if anyone was seeing this spectacle, but to his shock, the police officers he saw earlier were escorting any citizens from the area.

The inspector chuckled. "I knew you'd cause trouble again. And this time, you won't Sneasel your way out."

"What 'trouble'…" he gasped as the man tightened his grip. "…did I cause?"

"Why, kidnapping, of course," he whispered into the teen's ear.

"Kidnapping?! Of who?"

Inspector Caspian sneered. "Professor Birch's niece, Jade Ritva."

The color in Lapis' face drained. "J-Jade's missin'…?"

"So you do know something, after all. Come on, let's see what you got to say at the station."

He attempted to haul a stunned Lapis away when a familiar person approached.

"Excuse me, officer," Weldon interrupted. "What are you doing with my friend?"

The inspector cleared his throat and feigned a proper aura. "Young man, please don't pay mind to us. I'm just doing my job to make sure criminals are off the streets."

"Oh?" the Kantonian asked with a hint of doubt. "What did he do, if you don't mind me asking?"

The man flinched, finally recognizing the Trainer's identity. "I'm sorry, young man, but that is confidential information. Now if you'll excuse me…"

"Hey, what's going on here?" Magma ran over, his face flushed.

"Of all the people to run into…" the inspector muttered. Then he revealed his true emotions. "Well, well, well… If it isn't the undercover prodigy. Aren't you supposed to be stuck in that sweltering volcano?"

"And aren't you supposed to be treating the public with respect, Inspector?"

The man scowled. "If you interfere with my investigation, Brandt, I'll write you up for insubordination."

"Ha! Try me."

Inspector Caspian gripped Lapis' arm tighter. "Come quietly, Eurig," he whispered. "And I'll make sure your sentence is reduced."

Hearing Weldon and Magma defending him snapped Lapis out of his shock. "I already told you, I didn't kidnap her!"

The outburst attracted more attention, especially from two other teenagers: Samir, the research assistant, and Harry, the surfer.

"Samir! Harry!" Weldon exclaimed as they ran over.

"Damn it," the officer muttered. "Not another regional winner…" He reluctantly let the delinquent go. "You should be lucky, Eurig. Next time we see each other, you're not escaping as easily."

The man stormed off, and Lapis rubbed his slightly red arm. Creep…

"Are you okay, Lapis?" Weldon asked.

"Yeah, I'm fine. But Jade…"

"Don't worry about that for now." Magma pulled out a sturdy Pokégear. "I'll inform Detective Kei what happened."

He stepped away, leaving the four to catch up.

Samir smiled. "I'm glad you weren't hurt, Lapis, but I didn't expect to run into you so soon."

He sighed. "Me neither, Patajhad. Why're you and Waves here anyways?"

"Oh! I'm on a break from my fossil expedition, so I decided to watch a surfing contest yesterday."

"And I accidentally ran into Samir before it started," Harry continued. "We got along pretty well so we continued to hang out afterwards."

Weldon chuckled. "It's nice that you finally got to compete, Harry. How did you do?"

The surfer awkwardly replied, "Well… I got second place…out of two people. But it's okay. I was able to learn a lot, especially since it was my first contest." He then noticed the red-haired teenager, done with his phone call, scanning him and Samir. "Wh-Who're you?"

"Sorry, force of habit. I'm Magma Brandt. Nice to meet you."

"Same here. Anyway, what're you all doing in Lilycove City?"

Weldon was about to respond, but the older teen replied, "Maybe we should talk somewhere more private."

"Oh, right. Good idea, Magma. But where should we go?"

"I know of a place," a soft voice interjected.

A young man with spiky light green hair and light blue eyes approached them. He wore a white shirt, light green pants, and white shoes. A strange green Pokémon with blades for hands stood by him.

"Wally!" Weldon exclaimed. "I thought we were meeting at your Gym."

The stranger chuckled, placing his right hand close to his lips. "We are, but I didn't expect to run into you during our morning walk." Seeing the new faces around him, he beamed. "Oh, let me introduce myself first. My name is Wally, and I'm the Lilycove City Gym Leader."

As the introductions went around, Lapis pondered, He's a Gym Leader? I don't recall his name in the brochure.

Seeing Lapis' confusion, the green-haired teen grinned. "There are other Gym Leaders in the region besides the eight you need to battle, Lapis. My Gym and my girlfriend's Gym in Slateport City provide additional options for Trainers who are unable to reach the other two Gyms across the ocean."

The Nuzlocker crossed his arms. "Huh. Guess it makes sense. Who's that Pokémon you got there? I don't recognize it."

"Oh. This is Blade, my Gallade and trusted partner."

"Never heard of it."

Samir explained, "It's a Psychic and Fighting type Pokémon that can evolve from a male Kirlia. You need to use a Dawn Stone to trigger the evolution, so sometimes Trainers visit the Sinnoh Region, where they're normally found, to obtain one."

"Huh. Didn't expect a Pokémon to evolve like the Poliwhirl back home."

Magma smirked. "It's been a while since I've seen a Gallade as majestic as yours."

Blade proudly put his arms to his sides.

His Trainer responded, "Thanks for the compliment, Magma. Anyway, why don't we head over to the place I mentioned?"

"Where is it, exactly?" Harry asked.

"My gym, of course. I have soundproof walls, whiteboards, the works for meetings!"

The red-haired teen smiled. "That'll do. Lead the way, Wally."

The Gym Leader guided everyone along a road towards the ocean. There, a large white building stood on a cliff. The plain walls highlighted the stained glass windows on the second floor. Lapis could make out a panoramic view of Lilycove City and a Gallade standing proudly with his left arm raised. The group entered the building, an equally white space with colorful stained glass decorations and various indoor plants. Noticing the stained glass reflections, the Nuzlocker was surprised to see they were different from the ones outside. The city view turned into a past version itself with small huts and boats; the Gallade now had a light blue cape draped over his mostly white body and arms.

Wally then showed everyone a room down the hallway. Just like he said, it had a whiteboard, long table with matching chairs, and tinted windows. After the five settled in, he closed the door.

Magma tested the room for bugs and cracks in the soundproofing. Once he was satisfied, they spent about half an hour catching Samir and Harry up on what they were now involved in.

Samir stroked his chin. "I see. That does explain the ruins I found in the desert along Route 111." He looked at Weldon's sleeves. "And the new cufflinks you're wearing, Weldon. It's similar to my watch."

"Your watch, Samir?" Magma asked.

The research assistant showed the group a yellow watch on his left wrist. Lapis noticed the hour, minute, and second hands were different colored feathers.

"Are you sure you want to tell everyone? Weldon asked.

"I'm sure, especially if this region may be in danger too. I'm the Guardian of the Legendary Birds: Articuno, Zapdos, Moltres, and their master, Lugia."

Lapis' eyes grew wide. How do Scorcher and Leland know these kinds of people?!

The red-haired teen analyzed the timepiece. "My understanding is that the Legend Guardian accessories provide the user with special abilities. Have you unlocked it already?"

"Yeah. I can summon them at will, identify disguised voices, create tools made of ice, manipulate electrical currents, and create protective shields."

Harry was amazed. "That's awesome…"

"Good," the undercover agent affirmed. "We may need to call upon the Legendary Birds' help while Weldon recovers the remaining parts of the cufflinks. Does anyone else have any questions?"

The boys shook their heads. Magma cleaned the whiteboard and said, "Then I should head out. I need to give my report to my superiors before I leave for my next mission."

"Next mission?" Weldon inquired.

"After Groudon escaped, there have been reports of intense heat around the Mt. Chimney area. I need to track it down while finding ways to protect the citizens from heatstroke.

"Isn't that what the coppers should be doin'?" Lapis pointed out.

"They need all the help they can get."

Seeing his determination, the Nuzlocker relented. Magma said goodbye to everyone before leaving the room. A minute later, Wally peeked in.

"I brought some pastries if anyone's hungry."

Weldon nodded. "Thanks, Wally."

As they dug in, the Gym Leader asked, "Are you going to stay for the battle?"

"Battle?" Samir repeated.

Weldon clenched his fist on the table. "I'm going to do a one-on-one battle with Wally today."

"How come?"

"I…made a promise to him when we met in Slateport City: to show him if I really changed on my journey and if…I'm ready to end my hiatus."

The research assistant and surfer gasped.

"Y-You're thinking about ending your hiatus, Weldon?" Harry asked.

"Yeah…but I'll make the final decision after I help Summer with the Hoenn League."

Wally checked his watch. "Are you ready, Weldon?"

He got up and nodded. "How about everyone else?"

"You bet! I always wanted to see Weldon battle in person!" Harry replied ecstatically.

Samir chuckled. "It's been a while for me as well."

Lapis shrugged. "Guess I don't have much else since another training sesh would be pointless for me."

The group followed the Gym Leader to the battlefield, a large dirt field with white bleachers. The windows were also made of stained glass, but they allowed more sunlight to enter. Weldon and Wally headed to their respective boxes while the rest headed to the bleacher closest to the field.

Once everyone has settled in, Wally let out Blade. "So, Weldon. Have you considered which Pokémon you'll be using?"

"It's been on my mind for a while," he said as he took out a Poké Ball. "Here's the answer you've been waiting for, Wally. Go, Venusaur!"

The fully evolved Kanto Grass starter slammed onto the field.

"I-Is he serious?" Lapis said, dumbfounded. "A Poison type versus a Psychic type?"

Samir smirked. "Well, Venusaur is Weldon's first Pokémon. So they have the oldest bond."

"And I've seen those two win tough battles together," Harry added. "Still, it'll definitely be a challenge against a Gallade."

The Gym Leader took a deep breath and said, "All right, Weldon. You have the first move."

The Kantonian nodded. "Venusaur, Razor Leaf!"

The Grass type launched a flurry of sharp leaves at his opponent, who patiently waited for his Trainer's command.

Wally smiled. "Blade, counter with Leaf Blade!"

The Psychic type extended his arms, emitting a green aura. He then slashed at the leaves, knocking them all to the ground in several strokes.

"Now, Psycho Cut!"

Blade raised his arms, now glowing pink, and slashed the air. Several slices of the pink energy headed towards a stationary Venusaur.

"Venusaur, stop them with Sludge Bomb!"

Venusaur spat out several toxic orbs, and they collided with the pink slices. Though the Psycho Cut was super effective, it wasn't able to break through and land a hit.

The Gym Leader smirked. "Your Venusaur's stronger than I expected, Weldon."

The challenger smiled back. "Our training's paying off. And we'll keep showing you the results. Venusaur, Vine Whip!"

The Grass type shot two thick vines from under his flower.

Wally waved his arms. "Blade, dodge with Swords Dance!"

The Gallade materialized four translucent blue swords around him. As the weapons danced around him, they also blocked the vines trying to grab their creator. Venusaur kept trying to break through, but Blade kept changing the positioning of the swords by moving around the arena. Weldon gritted his teeth as Blade's attack greatly rose from the Swords Dance.

"Now, Blade! Close Combat!"

The Fighting type ran forward, his arms glowing orange.

Weldon clenched his left fist. "Venusaur, stop Blade with Razor Leaf!"

He released another flurry of leaves, but the Blade Pokémon was able to swipe the sharp projectiles away and hit the Kanto Pokémon with furious strikes. Lapis was surprised to see the Gallade's defenses lower after making contact with Close Combat, but it was likely the tradeoff for such a powerful move. Venusaur growled in pain but was able to resist the not super effective move. But it wasn't the end of the onslaught.

"Psycho Cut!"

The pink slices made their mark this time, and the Seed Pokémon roared angrily. He staggered a little as Blade began to retreat.

After seeing his Pokémon was all right, Weldon shouted, "Grab Blade with Vine Whip!"

The Grass type shot two thick vines and wrapped them around the Gallade, making sure his arms were fully incapacitated.

"Blade!" Wally cried out as his Pokémon struggled to break free.

Now that they had the advantage, Weldon waved his left arm. "Slam Blade on the ground, Venusaur!"

The Seed Pokémon did just that. Blade screamed as he hit the dirt, and Wally winced at his partner's pain. Venusaur let go of his victim, and the Gallade struggled to his feet.

"Are you all right, Blade?" his Trainer asked. After he nodded, Wally refocused by taking a breath.

Weldon continued the offensive. "Venusaur, Sludge Bomb then Razor Leaf!"

Several more purple orbs flew towards the weakened Blade Pokémon.

"Blade, Psycho Cut!"

Blade cut through the toxic orbs but was still hit by the river of flying leaves.

Wally clenched his fists. "We can't let this end here, Blade! Swords Dance then Close Combat!"

The Psychic type raised his attack once more then charged at Venusaur.

"I can't let another attack hit Venusaur," Weldon murmured as he observed his tired Pokémon. "Grab Blade with Vine Whip again!"

The Gallade tried to avoid the vines, but he was still tired from the previous attacks. Venusaur constricted him once more and threw Blade onto the battlefield. But this time, he didn't release his opponent.

Wally braced himself, expecting the worst. "Blade, get out with Psycho Cut!"

He tried to raise his arms, but Weldon acted quickly. "Venusaur, Earthquake!"

The Grass type raised his front legs and slammed them onto the floor. The ground shook from the impact, though Lapis couldn't feel it from the stands. Blade's screaming was inaudible due to the rumbling from the earthquake, but his expression reflected it.

A panting Venusaur let go of Blade, who lay on the fragments of the battlefield.

"Blade! Can you keep going?" his Trainer asked.

The Gallade nodded and slowly stood up, raising his arms.

Weldon clenched his teeth. "Even the Earthquake wasn't enough…" He noticed Venusaur's body glow green and breathed deeply. "We may still have a shot. You ready, Venusaur?"

His Pokémon looked back and gave a confident nod.

Wally smiled at the wills of the two combatants. "I don't want this battle to end, but we both know our Pokémon are at their limit. Let's see which partner prevails, Weldon!"

"Right. Venusaur, Overgrow-boosted Razor Leaf!"

"Blade, max power Psycho Cut!"

The Grass type created larger than normal leaves while the Psychic type's arms extended longer than before. The two attacks collided, creating a dark cloud that temporarily blinded the field. A loud thud echoed in the room, signaling one or both of the Pokémon fell. The smoke cleared, revealing a motionless Venusaur.

"Venusaur!" Weldon cried out as he ran towards his Pokémon. "Are you all right?"

He moaned but was able to mutter, "I'm okay, Weldon."

After returning Blade, Wally approached with a Max Potion. "Here, this should help Venusaur get back to his full strength."

"Thanks, Wally."

Lapis crossed his arms as the two talked and healed the Grass type. If only I could battle like that… Stupid Nuzlocke rules.

Seeing the two Trainers return to the lobby, the spectators did the same.

"Weldon!" Harry exclaimed as they regrouped. "That was a great battle. Too bad you didn't win."

"Thanks, Harry." Weldon chuckled. "To be honest, I thought I'd feel frustrated for losing, but I feel…relieved."

Samir raised an eyebrow. "Relieved?"

The Kantonian looked at Venusaur's Poké Ball. "During my time at the Battling Academy, I've been taught winning is the symbol of a powerful Trainer. Losing to anyone less is an insult." Then, he looked at the Gym Leader. "What you told me about learning from losses, Wally… I finally understand what you meant during our battle. A loss is just as important as a win; it helps us grow and understand others better. Especially on how to win the more challenging battles."

Wally laughed. "I'm glad you came to that realization, Weldon. You truly are a strong Trainer; it's been a while since Blade and I were in that much trouble during a non-Mega Evolution battle."

"Thanks, Wally. I appreciate that."

Weldon was surprised when the Gym Leader took out a white circular badge showing the different Pokémon type symbols. "You deserve this Diverse Badge, Weldon."

"But why? I'm not participating in the Hoenn League."

The green-haired man placed it on the challenger's hand. "You should have something that represents this part of your journey. That…and I need to give out more of these badges."

Everyone laughed except for Lapis, who just fumed. This is ridiculous! I didn't know the Gym Leaders could give badges willy nilly! I hate this challenge...

Suddenly, his PokéNav vibrated. Seeing that everyone else is occupied, he went into the hallway to answer the call.

{Hi, Lapis. It's Detective Kei. Magma told me what happened to you recently, so I wanted to check in with you.}

"Hmph. Gotta give you credit for callin' me 'bout this."

The detective sighed. {I know you're the last person Jade Ritva talked to, but I also know you wouldn't do anything to hurt her. Inspector Caspian still appears to be targeting you, but I have my suspicions about his investigation. I'll keep my eye on him and make sure Jade is found the right way; you have my word.}

"You better keep it, Detective."

{I will, Lapis. Just focus on your Nuzlocke challenge. I'll let you know if there are any new developments.}

After hanging up, Lapis closed his eyes and smiled. Guess it's nice not to be a target this time.

Questions for the Chapter:

What did you think of Inspector Caspian's accusations towards Lapis?

What did you think of Wally?

What did you think of Weldon's battle against Wally?