The Gym on the Hill

by Gobehyz Marigold

Lucian Grey has been hired to be a Gym Leader in the newly founded Acria Pokemon League. But it will be an uphill battle - his new home hates him, strange hostile Pokemon roam the wilds, and a mysterious group calling themselves Cipher has begun expanding. What a time to be a Gym Leader, huh? Inspired by 'Pokemon Colosseum' and the fangame 'This Gym of Mine' by the Omegas team

16. A New Journey

Chapter 16 - A New Journey

"Unbelievable, Lucian. Truly unbelievable." Krane studied the results of the latest test. Liligant slept soundly in the corner, wearing Lucian's jacket like a blanket. "I don't even know how to explain this." Krane frowned and got up to pace. "The purification was successful, but the Pokémon still has the ability to use Shadow moves. And on top of that, you managed to purify her without the use of the relic or the Purification Chamber."

"So…she wasn't a real Shadow Pokémon?"

"On the contrary, this was a truly perfect Shadow Pokémon. Liligant's heart was closed off naturally. Unlike the old XD project, it seems that the artificial locks were not used. What was that Aisha thinking?! Such a shame. A bright mind, and still swayed to evil."

"Could it be a copycat of Cipher?"

"No…no, it's definitely not. The uniforms, tactics, and the pattern are too similar. Whoever they are…this group IS Cipher." With a sigh, both men leaned back and stared at each other. Havila stirred slightly as Liligant moved. Ekans had curled around her like a scarf, causing her a bit of panic before she managed to reach for the Pokéball. Once the snake had been put away, Havila returned to her fitful sleep. "Regardless, Leader, you did a great job. Liligant is free and now Interpol can take over from here. I'll finish up my report on Cipher and pass the torch to the rest of you capable trainers." The professor smiled, his eyes drooping from the fatigue. He wasn't the only one about ready to pass out. "Get some rest, Leader Lucian." Salutations were exchanged, and the call ended.

Lucian stood, going over to the sleeping duo. He gently shook them. "Come on, girls. Let's get you home and to bed." Liligant's eyes snapped open, but it reacted with a sleepy and pleasant hum. Havila groaned and needed some help getting to her feet. "You didn't have to stay, Havila."

"I didn't want to deal with mom's interrogation."

"You'll still get it tomorrow." Havila shrugged it off and stumbled forward. "Alright, we'll walk you home first. Come on." The group exited the Pokemon Center and Havila took a sharp breath. Across the street, perched on the roof of the market, was a badly wounded Ninetails. It ignored its wounds and jumped down in front of the group. Sleep quickly forgotten, Liligant stood between her trainer and the unknown pokemon. Everyone was suddenly wide awake and fully alert.

The fox glared holes into Lucian. "...thank you." It finally 'spoke', bowing down slightly. "Now, fulfill your promise." Lucian nodded slowly.

"Promise? You mean to destroy Cipher? There is no need, the police will take care of it." A wave of dark energy pushed Lucian back.

"I wasn't talking to you." The Pokemon turned to Havila. "You…see me?" Havila slowly nodded. Her eyes were stinging from the outburst of energy. "Fulfill your promise."

Again, Havila nodded.