Disclaimer: I do not own any of the material appearing in this story. The OC's belong to their respective owners.
Friendly Heads Up: LONG.
BGM: South Province (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"Dunspar…" Dunsparce sweatdropped as Nyx had cornered it as her Stunfisk and Moltres accompanied her, but she gently held her hand out with a berry as the Dunsparce curiously hopped over to her hand, cautiously examining it and taking a bite. It then pounced on Nyx affectionately, causing her to giggle.
"Man, you sure know how to win them over." Yagami said, kneeling down.
"Yeah… such an odd looking Pokemon though."
"Stun?" Her Galarian Stunfisk wondered.
"Not you, you're cool."
Moltres let out fiery bird noises.
"And you're powerful. This big guy just looks so… so…"
"Derpy?" Yagami guessed.
"Yeah, derpy. And I love it!" Nyx giggled, petting the Dunsparce.
"And he's so cute too."
"Mhm!"
"Dun Dun~" Dunsparce blushed.
"So, where are we in Paldea anyway?"
"From what Umber's Rotom showed us, we think we're in area six of the southern province. And apparently, the town's name is Alfornada."
"Interesting… so uh, any reason why that big lug over there is taking a nap?" She pointed over in the distance where Groudon was snoozing.
"Zzzz… screw you, Kyogre… that was my sandwich… zzzz…"
"No clue." Yagami shrugged.
"Sooo, any cool places have you seen around here?"
"Aside from Alfornada, there's this really huge and beautiful lake called Casseroya Lake. Not to mention there's a big ice mountain that… we think it's called Glaseado Mountain?"
"Oh cool. Anything else?"
"No, that's about it. Though Umber did say he'll give us a grand tour of the region."
"Nice! Any place in particular you want to go to?"
"Well…" Yagami turned toward the Great Crater. "We want to see what's inside the crater. Heck, Umber's been curious about it too."
"Oooh, that sounds like a lovely place to explore."
"Mhm! We wonder what's down there…"
End BGM
Later, at Poco Path…
"The lab is… in the lighthouse?" Bowsette wondered as they approached it.
"Yeah." Arven nodded.
"Ah, making the lab blend in by having it be inside of a lighthouse. Clever." Ludwig said.
"I always wondered what was behind that door, but it was always locked." Nemona said.
"What'd you think was in there?" Alessandra asked.
"I dunno… a broom closet? Some kind of storage unit?" Nemona shrugged. "A lab was the last thing I'd think about."
Arven chuckled. "Yeah, I can understand why you'd think that. Still… this is where I used to play when I was little."
He then let out an annoyed sigh. "There better be a good reason as to why they decided to call us up here now of all times."
He walked over to the door, hesitantly reaching for it before stopping, clenching his fists in frustration.
BGM: Emotion (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"Everyone always says that they're geniuses… absolutely brilliant as Pokemon Professors." He turned to face them. "But as parents? They're the absolute WORST. All they ever do is work… they never come home. I don't have a single memory of her playing with me… their own kid. Mabosstiff's the only one that's ever been there for me."
Arven turned back around and unlocked the door. "There… it's unlocked."
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Mewtwo asked.
"Yes… as soon as I get it over with, the better." Arven mumbled as he opened the doors as they walked by, but not before everyone giving him a hug, though Mewtwo opted for a shoulder pat.
"We have your back, Arven." Cinder said, giving him a smile and walked in as Arven took a deep breath and walked inside.
End BGM
"A little stuffy in here…" Marnie said.
"Blegh… ever heard of opening a window?" Bede complained.
"I've been in stuffier places." Alessandra said.
"It's kinda creepy in here…" Carmine said.
"So much dust on these books." Jaune said as Pyrrha wiped her hand on a book spine.
"The mysteries of the Terastal Phenomenon." Pyrrha read.
Jinx dusted one away. "Mega Evolution phenomenon… seems like they were interested in that."
Suddenly, the computer screens turned on as everyone turned to see them as they approached them cautiously as both Sada and Turo appeared on the screen.
"We need your help."
BGM: Professor Sada/Turo (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"We are currently at the deepest point of Area Zero, in the Great Crater of Paldea." Turo said. "We have been researching the unique Pokemon here for a very long time, including the one who is responsible for the Terastal Phenomenon known as Terapagos."
Suddenly, Ogerpon came out of her Luxury Ball. "Poni Pon?" She wondered.
"Hmm?" Mewtwo raised a bare eyebrow as he looked into Ogerpon's memories. Ah… so you played with this Pokemon back then.
"We're asking you all to lend a hand, to help carry out the final step of the great Professor Turo and Sada's research." Sada added.
"The final step…?" Arven wondered.
"There is something we need first. Something that can be found within that lab." Turo said. "What we need is the Scar-Vio book."
JNPR, Jinx, Erza and Mahiru perked up upon hearing the name of the book.
"Wait a minute, didn't we hear about that before?" Ren whispered.
"I think Briar had the original copy…" Mahiru whispered back.
"Hmm?" Zinnia perked up, overhearing their whispers. "Briar?"
"You mean… this book?" Arven pulled it out.
"Ah, so you had taken it from the lab, did you, Arven?" Sada wondered. "This expedites things. Bring the book to the deepest depths of Area Zero. We promise that it will be an experience worth treasuring if you all come."
Kokoro's ocelot ears lowered, feeling a bit uneasy as Kotoko gently took her hand. "I feel the same way as you do." Kotoko whispered.
"We must note, however, that Area Zero is both home to vicious Pokemon and outfitted with powerful cybernetic security systems. It seems to us that, despite your large group, you might be in a world of hurt if you were to enter." Turo said.
"Indeed. For some reason, unknown creatures have entered Area Zero and while they have not harmed any Pokemon, they are still incredibly hostile. We've seen the likes of red Tyrantrum, frozen dragon-like Crobat, we've even seen Wiglett and Wugtrio with legs, yet their eyes seem to be missing, though the Wugtrio seem to have combined into one head. Plus, there is one creature that had decorated itself in Tera jewels. We do not know what this is, but it has fire burning from its wings and moves incredibly fast. From what we can tell, it might be faster than the two Eon Pokemon." Sada said.
"And those are just the tip of what we have seen. They have gotten into a few scraps with the Paradox Pokemon, but… it always ends up in a draw." Turo explained. "No deaths… yet, as far as we know."
"Wait a second…" Nemona said. "I think I've encountered a few of these creatures before… yeah! I've warded them away from different towns! It seems like they have migrated over to… the crater…"
She grimaced, rubbing the back of her head. "Ahehehe… whoops…"
"We do not fault you, Nemona. You had no idea they would retreat into Area Zero." Turo said. "Regardless, we will be awaiting you in the deepest parts of Area Zero, whenever you arrive."
The screen turned off.
"So… quick question. Did one of these creatures you fought looked like this?" Carmen asked, showing Nemona a picture of Rathalos.
"Hmm…" Nemona got a good look at it. "Yup! That was one of them! I really wanted to capture it too, but it wouldn't go into my Ultra Ball. Heck, I only seemed to annoy it when I couldn't get it into a Master Ball either. Sooooo, I had a heck of a battle with that big guy."
Carmen chuckled. "Wonderful…"
"That's the thing, they're not actually Pokemon. They're actual monsters." Kotoko said. "Though, from what I've heard from one of Iono's streams, they mentioned something about creating a Pokeball that specializes in capturing those beasts…"
Nemona's eyes sparkled. "I wouldn't mind if I had one myself~!"
"I'd… rather not be around them. They all look so intimidatingly creepy." Carmine said, where they heard a growl coming from the door. "Ah, not you, Basalt. You're good!"
Basalt let out a more content growl.
"I think I saw a few of them at Mt. Coronet…" Perrin mused.
"Ye fought a Rathalos?" Gloria asked.
"Mhm. Was a pretty fun fight, actually. I think I still have armor from that one weird blacksmith made for the scales somewhere." Carmen said.
"...Hold that thought." Gloria said as she immediately texted Ruby.
"Ai yai yai… just when I thought Area Zero was not for the faint of heart, now we got actual non-Pokemon monsters down there." Arven said. "Not only that, but you skin 'em for armor? That's a bit morbid."
"Also weapons." Mahiru added.
"Brutal." Arven grimaced. "But anyway, that's gonna be a pain just trying to get to my parents… I feel bad for having to rely on you guys."
"Ah, don't worry about it." Alessandra said. "Glori and her friends can knock 'em out for sure."
"And we'll have Ruby and her group helpin' out too once they're done with that Penny situation." Marnie said.
"WHAT?! Carmen fought a Rathalos and I missed it?! Aw man…" Ruby texted.
"Considerin' that Nemona chased them all into Area Zero, maybe ye'll get that chance again." Gloria texted back.
"Here's hoping!"
"...Wait a second, why aren't you with Ruby's group?" Hop wondered.
"Ah, I just wanted to see what you guys were doing on the other side." Carmen said.
"Fair enough!"
"What, did you miss me on my flying buddy outside?"
"Kweh!"
Arven sighed. "Aless, I know you have a Pokemon League to do, but… would you mind if we had a Pokemon battle together? That way, we can be ready for Area Zero? …Okay, so I can be ready for Area Zero, because I am so going to give them a piece of my mind."
"I, as well. I have questions for them." Mewtwo said.
"You sure you're ready?" Alessandra asked.
"Yes." Arven nodded.
"Alright, let's do this." Alessandra nodded as they walked outside.
Carmine gasped, seeing the Chocobo as her eyes sparkled. "Oh my Arceus, that is so adorable…!"
"Kweh!"
"Hey buddy~" Perrin smiled, snapping a picture of the Chocobo as Carmine petted it with a soft smile as Nemona couldn't help but join in.
"So soft!" Nemona smiled as she took a good look at the Chocobo. "Hmm, I don't know why, but this kinda looks like a Galarian Zapdos."
Nemona giggled as she turned her head to look at Alessandra as she moved her hand, aiming for underneath the Chocobo's beak. "Hey Aless, you gotta come pet this big guy! He's so soft!"
"Um… Nemona?" Flandre spoke up as Nemona turned her head to see that since she wasn't paying attention, she was petting Carmine instead of scratching underneath the Chocobo's beak.
"Oh!" Nemona pulled her hand away. "Lo siento!" (Sorry!)
Carmine said nothing as her face was beet red with her eyes completely blank as steam was coming out of her ears.
I'm… soft… Carmine could only think.
Arven tossed a Pokeball into the air, calling out Mabosstiff. "Baroof!"
"Whoa, time out a second. Are you sure this is a good idea? He just got better." Cian pointed out.
Arven let out a chuckle. "Yeah, I can understand why you'd think that. But just look at him, he's bursting with energy! You'd never know he was so weak before!"
The Mabosstiff let out a whine.
"Aw, he's sayin' he wants to help out with finding Balto too." Gloria added.
"Ba-woof!"
Alessandra smiled, kneeling down as the Mabosstiff walked over and nudged her with his head, licking her face. "You're sweet…" She said.
At that moment, Bowsette's phone went off as she saw a text coming from Kamek.
"I found him. Do you want me to send him to your location?"
Bowsette looked up and saw Alessandra scratching Mabosstiff behind the ears and then looked at Gloria.
"Send him over when Alessandra is fighting Gloria. Stay where you are. I don't know what battle arena Gloria has in mind with Aless, but bring him to the fight. Standby until then."
"Fair enough. Just between me and you though, I'm getting out of the Crown Tundra and going somewhere else in Galar where it's warmer."
"LOL! Okay!"
"You really want to battle?" Alessandra asked Mabosstiff.
"Woof!" Mabosstiff nodded.
"Okay." Alessandra smiled. "Then let's have a good one."
With a nod, Mabosstiff jumped back and landed in front of Arven as he got in a pouncing stance. "Not yet, Mabosstiff. I'll call ya when it's your time to shine."
Mabosstiff nodded.
"Heheh, he always did like to battle… even if we kept losing to the battle junkie over there." Arven chuckled.
"It was still fruitful!" Nemona giggled.
"And Cinder? I'd like to battle you too, someday." Arven said.
"Really?" Cinder asked in surprise before smiling. "Okay!"
"Alright… you ready, Aless? Because you're looking at a new and improved Arven ready to kick some butt!" He said as Alessandra smirked, bringing out a Pokeball of her own.
"Bring it, bud!"
BGM: Battle! Arven (Pokemon Masters EX)
The Chef Who Needs a Hug - Arven
Arven sent out his first Pokemon, Greedent.
"Greedent!" Greedent cried as Alessandra sent out Rio.
"Quaquav!"
Greedent smirked as he lunged, his teeth turning pink as he proceeded to use Psychic Fangs on Rio, but he quickly backflipped to avoid the attack and proceeded to jump in and used Close Combat, proceeding to punch and kick the Greedent away.
"Greeed!" Greedent cried as he was knocked away but recovered despite being beaten up. He proceeded to eat some berries and then unleashed Bullet Seed at Rio who swiftly ran around to avoid the Bullet Seed before jumping over and using Aqua Cutter to finish off the Greedent.
"Deeeent…" Greedent groaned.
"Yeesh… that Quaquaval's something else." Arven winced as he recalled the Greedent and sent out Cloyster.
"Cloysteeer!" The Cloyster cried.
"Quaquav!" Rio got in a fighting stance as Cloyster set up a Light Screen and then proceeded to pepper Rio with a lot of Icicle Spears. Rio deflected them with his kicks as he got a few of them hit him but he kept it up and ran toward him as Cloyster shot out a Rock Blast, but Rio proceeded to roundhouse kick the rock and sent it back to Cloyster, hitting it directly.
"Cloooooy!" Cloyster cried as Rio jumped in and used Close Combat to knock the Cloyster back. The Cloyster growled and fired another Rock Blast as Rio caught it with his hands and slid back as he jumped up and slam dunked the Rock Blast back on Cloyster to finish him off.
Arven blinked. "You, uh… been watching basketball lately?"
"Nope." Alessandra scratched the top of her head.
"Well, I guess someone did." Arven shrugged as he recalled Cloyster and then sent out Scovillain.
"Scov!"
"Oh?" Cian wondered as he scanned the Scovillain.
"Scovillain, the Spicy Pepper Pokemon and the evolved form of Capsakid. The red head converts spicy chemicals into fire energy and blasts the surrounding area with a super spicy stream of flame. The green head has turned vicious due to the spicy chemicals stimulating its brain. Once it goes on a rampage, there is no stopping it."
"Is it a… ghost pepper?" Nora wondered.
"I think it's a habanero." Ren said.
"Could be a Carolina Reaper." Kotoko added.
"...Why does that name sound like it'll kill you?" Kokoro whimpered.
"I tried one on a dare. You'd wish you were." Mabel shuddered.
"I'd be careful, sis! This thing's Grass/Fire!" Cian warned.
"Good to know!" Alessandra nodded as Rio got ready.
"Scoviillll!" Scovillain unleashed Energy Ball at Rio, who swiftly avoided the attack as he ran ahead, avoiding another Energy Ball as he used Acrobatics on the Spicy Pepper Pokemon. However, Scovillain used a point blank Energy Ball to knock him away.
"Quaquav…!" Rio winced as Scovillain then used Zen Headbutt to knock him away. "Quava!" Rio grunted as Scovillain ran over and used Crunch, but Rio avoided the attack and used Acrobatics again, striking the Pokemon down.
"Scoooo…" Scovillain groaned as Arven recalled Scovillain and then sent out Toedscruel.
"Toedscruel, the Woodear Pokemon and the evolved form of Toedscool. These Pokémon gather into groups and form colonies deep within forests. They absolutely hate it when strangers approach. It coils its ten tentacles around prey and sucks out their nutrients, causing the prey pain. The folds along the rim of its head are a popular delicacy."
"Good to know." Cian put his Pokedex away and glanced over at a flustered Perrin. "What's wrong?"
"Long story…" Jaune replied.
Alessandra recalled Rio and sent out Wisp. "Ceru!" Wisp cried.
"Toedsca!" Toesdscruel cried as he unleashed Power Whip, but Wisp parried it and then retaliated with Lava Plume. Toedscruel let out a grunt and unleashed a point blank Earth Power to knock him back, but Wisp shook it off and ran forward as Toedscruel sprinkled Spore on him, but he rolled out of the way and used Bitter Blade to slash through him, knocking down the Toedscruel.
"Sheesh…" Arven chuckled. "Nemona, you sure this is the same girl who had that clumsy first battle with you?"
"Hahaha! She's definitely a beast now, that's for sure!"
"Clearly… I'm way out of my league here…" Arven chuckled. "...But I'm not giving up!"
He sent out his next Pokemon, Garganacl.
"Gargana!"
Cian scanned the Pokemon.
"Garganacl, the Rock Salt Pokemon and the final evolved form of Nacli. Garganacl will rub its fingertips together and sprinkle injured Pokémon with salt. Even severe wounds will promptly heal afterward. Many Pokémon gather around Garganacl, hoping to lick at its mineral-rich salt."
Nora tilted her head. "But isn't that… a bad thing to do with your wounds?"
"Definitely not this Pokemon." Erza mused.
Alessandra recalled Wisp and then sent out Sherry. "Tsaree!"
Garganacl proceeded to use Stone Edge on Sherry, but the Tsareena backflipped and then unleashed Leaf Storm on the Pokemon. "Gargaaan!" Garganacl cried as he stumbled a bit as Sherry let out a groan, shaking it off.
Garganacl proceeded to use Earthquake, but Sherry jumped over the shockwave and proceeded to use High Jump Kick, smacking her foot into his head as Garnganacl went down hard as Sherry gracefully landed.
"Nice moves." Arven said, recalling Garganacl. "Alright, Mabosstiff. You know what to do!"
"Baruff!" Mabosstiff jumped in with a competitive smirk as Sherry got in a stance, though the smirk was enough to send a shiver down her spine as both trainers proceeded to Terastalize their Pokemon.
"BAWOOOOF/TSAREEENAAAAA!"
Mabosstiff proceeded to use Fire Fang on Sherry, who quickly got out of the way to avoid him and then swiftly used Triple Axel, kicking him three times before hitting him with Trop Kick, which Mabosstiff bit down on her leg with Fire Fang.
"Reena!" Sherry cried as she jumped back as Mabosstiff jumped in with Crunch, but Sherry used Triple Axel again, but Mabosstiff jumped to the side and Crunched down on her. "TSAREEE!" Tsareena cried as she fell on both knees as Mabosstiff let out a growl and lunged.
"Sherry, hang in there!"
"Reena!" Sherry staggered up as Mabosstiff dove for her, ready to use Fire Fang as she jumped back and then jumped forward, hitting Mabosstiff with High Jump Kick to knock the Boss Pokemon to the ground, his Tera crystal disappearing.
End BGM
"Ooooh!" Arven winced. "That'll leave a mark…"
Alessandra walked over to him and knelt down. "I didn't rough you up too badly, did I?" She asked with concern as Mabosstiff shook it off and licked her face with a smile, causing her to giggle. "Okay, that's good!"
"Phew, I was worried that was gonna end horribly…" Hop said.
BGM: Poco Path (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
Arven chuckled. "So this was the strength of someone who can take on the Titans and the Gym Leaders… I'm not even surprised at all by your strength."
Alessandra smiled. "You weren't bad yourself."
"Really? Oh man, that means a lot…" Arven smiled. "Alright, so, I guess we can mosey on over to the Pokemon League and cheer you on." He said.
"Alriiiiight~! Let's go~!" Nemona said as she took off running, leaving everyone in the dust.
"I think she's excited." Coco said as they walked off casually while Alessandra gave Arven another hug and walked off, all the while JNPR were trying to snap Carmine out of her daze.
"Huh?! Wha?!" Carmine shook it off. "What happened? Did I miss a Pokemon battle?!"
"Back in reality, lovebird~" Nora winked as they walked off with a still dazed Carmine.
End BGM
Meanwhile…
"So you've come." Clive said as he was standing in front of the doors to the academy.
"Yeah, we have." Weiss nodded.
"There's one thing I must confess… I am not actually Clive. You see… I am actually-" He quickly took off his disguise. "The Director of Nuranuva, Director Clavell!"
"...Yeah, we knew it was you all along." Ruby said.
"Huh?!" Clavell exclaimed in surprise. "How did you-"
"Your goatee was a dead giveaway, not to mention you never bothered to change your voice." Weiss said.
"Yeah, and the fact you still walked like an old man as "Clive"." Masaru said.
"Ack!" Clavell grunted. "There's… there's no getting past you, is there? Well, how about this then… Penny being Cassiopeia is a red herring! I am the true boss of Team Star!"
Everyone gave him a dull "You're kidding right?" look.
"Uh-huh… care to elaborate?" Weiss asked.
"I may have been with you all this time, but… those were just pre-recorded messages!"
"Including the sneeze at Glaseado?" Pit asked.
"What about when Ogerpon picked Penny up and she was still communicating with us?" Neptune pointed out.
"I was committed to the part." Clavell said, flashing his glasses.
A small breeze rushed over them as a Bramblin rolled between them.
"...I'm not getting through to you, aren't I?"
"Nope." Blake responded.
"Hmmm… well… her sorrows are not yours to bear. She has gone through so much that she has settled on this path and is determined to see it through. I do not wish to have any of you take on her burdens… but it seems as if one of you have been through something similar. Weiss… I have heard all about your trials and tribulations."
"Huh? Who told you that?"
"Penny has kept an eye on your world for the longest time… in fact, she stepped into it to help out a fellow egghead to restore that world's… internet, I think that's what she said. She's sent out a small drone invisible to the naked eye and watched a scientist's invasion and watched you nearly consuming yourself in rage… and then continued observing you getting tormented by this Adam fellow and then nearly losing yourself to this cyberspace at the Starfall Islands. You have gone through so much."
Weiss looked away. "It's… been a rough ride."
"Indeed. Are you sure you have what it takes to fight her?"
"If it means getting her out of it, then so be it. My hope is coming back… and I wish to get out of whatever darkness she got herself into. Besides, I'm the one with the Team Star badges."
Clavell nodded. "Then show me your resolve." He said, pulling out a Pokeball. "If you don't mind."
"Wait, are you sure this is a good idea? I mean… she's waiting for us and-"
"It'll be fine, Ruby." Weiss turned her head with a teasing smile. "You, of all people, can wait a few extra minutes."
"Ouch, cold!" Ruby responded with a sigh. "Alright, fine… I guess we can wait a few extra minutes."
"Just one question… did Penny tell you all of that?"
"You're not the only one who has conversations with her." Clavell said.
Weiss pulled out a Pokeball. "Just checking."
BGM: Battle! Clavell (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
The Director - Clavell
Clavell sent out Oranguru as Weiss sent out her Weavile.
"Oranga!"
"Vile!"
Oranguru immediately put up a Reflect barrier before immediately using Foul Play on him, but Razor took it pretty well and then swooped in with Night Slash, striking Oranguru.
"Oran…!" Oranguru grunted as he used Yawn, but Razor closed his eyes to avoid yawning himself to sleep as he proceeded to use Dark Pulse, causing it to flinch as Razor proceeded to use Night Slash again to finish him off.
Clavell recalled Oranguru and then sent out Abomasnow.
"Bomaaaa!" Abomasnow cried as he set up Aurora Veil and then used Blizzard, striking the Weavile as he shrugged it off and used Hone Claws before striking with Night Slash, barely avoiding a Wood Hammer in the process and jumped back, crossing his arms as he got pelted with Ice Shard.
Abomasnow rolled his arm and went for another Wood Hammer as Razor jumped out of the way and used Fury Swipes on him, making him back up a bit before backhanding him away and hitting him with Wood Hammer to counter.
"Weav…!" Razor grunted with a growl as Abomasnow used Blizzard again, but Razor ran through it and swiftly used Night Slash to finish it off, causing the Abomasnow to fall on his back.
Clavell recalled Abomasnow and then sent out Polteageist.
"Polteeeaaaa!"
"You still up for it, Razor?" Weiss asked as Razor gave her the thumbs up. "Good!"
Razor immediately started off with another Hone Claws right as Polteageist fired a Will-O-Wisp at him, but Razor jumped out of the way and lunged with a Night Slash but Polteageist countered with a Sucker Punch, knocking Razor to the ground and then fired another Will-O-Wisp, hitting Razor head on.
"Weavi…" Razor got up on one knee as Polteageist charged up a Shadow Ball and fired, but Razor dove out of the way and got up as he ran over toward the Polteageist. It proceeded to try and use Sucker Punch, but Razor used Hone Claws instead, throwing the Ghost Pokemon off as Razor struck with Night Slash, knocking down the Pokemon.
"Weavile Weav!" Razor cried before sitting down with a groan.
Weiss recalled Razor right when Clavell sent in Gyarados as Weiss sent out Frost.
"Laaasss!" The Froslass cried.
Gyarados let out a roar and used Stone Edge, but Frost moved out of the way and used Aurora Veil before shooting off a Shadow Ball right as the opposing side's Aurora Veil disappeared, hitting Gyarados squarely in the face.
Gyarados let out another roar and used Aqua Tail, striking Frost as she was knocked away but quickly recovered and used Blizzard, hitting Gyarados as he used Stone Edge, or at least tried to since Gyarados froze over.
"...Oh dear." Clavell grimaced at the Gyarados-cicle while Frost set up Snowscape before finishing off the Gyarados with a critical Shadow Ball.
The ice shattered as Gyarados was knocked out cold as Clavell recalled him and then sent out Houndoom.
"Doooooom!"
Ruby gasped. "Oh my, you have excellent taste~!"
Weiss recalled Frost and then sent out Mari, who was ready to sing in front of the Houndoom. The Houndoom smirked and rushed ahead, his teeth pulsating with electricity that made Weiss' eyes widen.
"Oh boy!" Weiss said as Mari got ready and jumped away from a Thunder Fang and proceeded to use Moonblast, striking the Houndoom as it tried to bite her with Thunder Fang.
"Doooooom!" Houndoom cried as he tried to use Thunder Fang again as Mari tried to get away but Houndoom bit down on her tail.
"Prima!" Mari winced before retaliating with a Hydro Pump to knock him down for the count. "Hmph!"
"Hooound…"
"It seems that I am down to my last." Clavell mused as he recalled the Houndoom. "Now… did you really expect me to have just one of each of the Starter Pokemon?" He asked, casually sending out another Meowscarada.
"Meowsca!"
"Hmmm…" Weiss narrowed her eyes before switching Mari out and sending Frost back out.
Clavell smirked, proceeding to Terastallize the Meowscarada while Frost proceeded to set up another Aurora Veil.
"MEOWSCAAAAAAAAAAA!"
"Here goes nothing." Weiss said as she proceeded to do a dance right as Meowscarada used Flower Trick on her, hitting Frost.
"Frossla…!" Frost grunted, tanking the hit as she started to glow with energy right after.
"Now! Let's finish this! SUBZERO SLAMMER!" Weiss cried out as a pillar of ice shot up from the ground as Frost towered over them and launched out a massive ice beam as Meowscarada tried to dodge it, but got struck by it as he was encased by ice as ice pillars shot out before exploding, knocking Meowscarada out as the Tera Jewel faded away.
End BGM
"It appears that you will do whatever it takes…" Clavell said as he recalled the Meowscarada. "I was afraid that if you fell in battle, it would be up to me to fight Penny in battle. Your resolve is stronger. She awaits you into the Track Fie-"
"What is going on out here!" A voice demanded as Clavell turned to see Tyme approaching.
"Ah, Ms. Tyme… what seems to be the trouble?"
"The trouble? I came to investigate reports of an illicit battle on school grounds and what do I find? The Director of the academy himself, facing against a complete stranger no less! What were you thinking?!"
"Ah, you are mistaken… it's a rather sad tale-"
"Sad tale, my foot! Your excuse is worse than a Stunky's behind!"
Clavell flinched. "A S-Stunky's b-b-behind?!"
Tyme turned around and walked off. "You will write a letter of apology to the students and faculty at once! And I'll be reporting this to the chairwoman of the school board, make no mistake!"
"G-goodness gracious! Let's not be so hasty, I implore you!" Clavell ran off after Tyme, leaving everyone else sweatdropping.
"She couldn't have come sooner?" Pit wondered.
"Well… to the track field, I guess?" Weiss shrugged as they walked off, while healing up Razor on the way there.
Once on the track field, they saw Penny waiting for them as she was playing a game on her phone to keep herself occupied.
"You got this?" Meryl asked her sister.
"Yeah… I've got this." Weiss nodded as she walked over toward Penny.
Penny shifted her eyes toward Weiss as she put her Rotom Phone away. "Hey."
"Hey…"
BGM: Cassiopeia (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"So why make Team Star after all this? We've heard all the backstories but you went through with it regardless?"
"There was no other way… but I will say, you weren't my first pick to confront me. I thought it would be Aless or even Gloria since they both came to defend me from Team Star the other day, or even Nagisa for that matter. Hell, I was surprised that you guys split up to carve out your own paths in Paldea considering you guys tend to travel in large groups in your adventures."
"So we split up sometimes. No big deal." Weiss responded.
"Even so, I was hoping at least Aless would join but… instead some girl named Carmen crashes the party and then Umber hops in when some dumbass ruined his picnic? Good grief…" Penny mumbled. "Not to mention the amount of LP I sent her way was when I hoped she would be tempted to join. Of course, she decides to show up at the last moment during that weird lava goldfish thing ruining Eri's moment."
She let out a chuckle. "Regardless, you guys helping out worked out in the end. I kept an eye on you as the "Supply unit" and watched your every move. …That being said, one of you decided to be nosy and outed me at the very first Team Star base."
She shot a glare toward Claude. "CLAUDE."
"Hey, not my fault you stand out like a barber shop's candy cane pole." Claude casually said.
"Just for the record, I also saw her but I knew Claude was taking care of it." Pit said.
"Yeah… you don't blend in very well." Dipper said.
"Even I saw ya." Silver said.
A cross vein appeared on Penny's forehead. "Note to self… invest in camouflage technology…"
She let out a sigh. "Regardless, you did what you were asked to do and defeated them all, then it all boils down to defeating me and putting an end to Team Star for good."
She clenched her fists. "However… there's a part of me that wants Team Star to live on! I can't just roll over and let you win without putting up a fight!"
"You want Team Star to live on? They're going to do something really horrible to their classmates and possibly damage the academy! You really want to live with that?"
Penny stiffened, clenching her jaw. "I…"
"Do you?! Because once they start their operation, there will be no going back the moment they step foot into campus! It's not too late to change your mind…"
"Hah… don't come to me about "changing my mind". You're one to talk."
"What do you mean?"
"You almost lost yourself in your own anger against Eggman. What if your twin sister wasn't there to stop you the first go around? Or you had your way at the Starfall Islands? You were on a course to kill Eggman, and if no one stopped you, he'd be dead right about now. So don't talk to me about "changing your mind"." Penny shot back.
"I've moved on from that."
"Have you? How's your hope coming along? Is it fully back or are you just trying to play the hopeful hero that you're pretending to be? What, you want to talk me down and then take all the blame in my stead just like you did with wanting to take Ruby's burden away from her? Because look at all the shit that happened to you after you-"
"ENOUGH!" Weiss yelled, causing Penny to flinch a bit. "I know that I've made mistakes… but there's no reason to dig them up just to get me to lose focus so you could have an easy win. I'll get you out of this darkness one way or another."
"..Just go ahead and try. There's no hope for me anyway."
Nagisa frowned. "Penny…" He said quietly, recalling how he was in the same predicament as she was with him and his friends with Monaca.
"Let's get this over with." Penny said as they walked over toward the arena.
"Wait!" Clavell, dressed up as Clive again, ran over toward them. "Apologies for the delay, the letter of apology Ms. Tyme, er, I mean… preparations took longer than-"
"I know it's you, Director Clavell. Your disguise is obvious." Penny deadpanned.
"Grrrk! You too, Penny…?" Clavell grimaced with a sweatdrop.
"Actually, you being here is an opportunity. I know it's unheard of when a student demands something from the principal, but I want you to record a video so I can send it to Team Star. They need to see the outcome of this battle for themselves."
"I mean, you do know that I'm the Director, so isn't demanding-"
"Aren't you currently a walking doormat for Mrs. Tyme? Don't think I didn't hear the rumors about Mrs. Tyme having you on a tight leash over what happened at the school entrance."
Clavell sweatdropped. "Tonight is not my night, it seems…" He groaned. "Very well… though admittedly "walking doormat" is a little hurtful…" He mumbled as he pulled out his Rotom Phone. "Aaaand… recording."
"Alright… now bow down before the might of Team Star! I, Cassiopeia… no… Penny… will show the world our might!" Penny declared.
Weiss pulled out a Pokeball, activating it. "I'll get you out of this."
BGM: Battle! Penny (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
Leader of Team Star - Penny
Both girls sent out their first Pokemon, where it was both Mari and Umbreon.
"Prima!"
"Umbre!"
Umbreon immediately started off with Baby Doll Eyes before launching himself with Quick Attack as Mari proceeded to fire an Ice Beam at him. Umbreon dodged the attack and slammed into Mari head on before using Psychic on her.
Mari was thrown to the side as Umbreon immediately used Dark Pulse, but Mari jumped up and used Hydro Pump, striking Umbreon as he was pushed away from the massive torrent of water as he immediately ran over to use Quick Attack again, hitting her as she landed as Mari used a point blank Ice Beam, making Umbreon slide away.
"Umbre… UMBRE!" Umbreon unleashed Dark Pulse but Mari gracefully jumped and unleashed Moonblast on him, but Umbreon dodged and used Quick Attack, but this time Mari was prepared and stood on her tail as she landed and then gave Umbreon a good tail smack to send him away and then struck him with another Moonblast, knocking the Umbreon down.
Penny switched Umbreon out and sent out Vaporeon.
"Vapor!" Vaporeon cried, immediately using Baby Doll Eyes before unleashing Hydro Pump as Mari did the same, both of them clashing and pushing against each other… only Mari overpowered it and slammed into Vaporeon.
It didn't do too much damage however as Vaporeon immediately shot off an Aurora Beam as Mari jumped to the side and started to sing in her Alluring Voice, striking the Vaporeon. "Vapor…!" Vaporeon cried before running over to use Quick Attack but Mari struck him with an Ice Beam, pushing Vaporeon away.
Vaporeon growled as he went for the Quick Attack and slammed into her as Mari used Hydro Pump to push him away before using Moonblast, hitting the Vaporeon right when he was about to use Aurora Beam, knocking Vaporeon out.
"Vapoooor…" Vaporeon groaned as Penny switched Vaporeon out and then sent out Jolteon, where Weiss instinctively called Mari back and then sent out Tusky.
"Mamoooo!"
"Jolt!" Jolteon cried.
Tusky slammed on the ground, unleashing Earth Power on Jolteon but he swiftly jumped out of the way and used Baby Doll Eyes before his fur spiked up and unleashed Pin Missile on Tusky. The Mamoswine rushed through the Pin Missile and struck the Jolteon with Take Down.
"Jooooolt!" Jolteon cried as he shook it off and rushed toward him with Quick Attack, jumping over the shockwave of the Earthquake and striking the Mamoswine in the face, to which he responded with a point blank Blizzard, knocking the Jolteon back and then stomped on the ground, hitting him with Earth Power whilst blinding him from the snowstorm.
"Joooolt…" Jolteon cried as he fell to the ground in defeat as Penny recalled her Jolteon and then sent out Flareon.
"Flare!" Flareon cried as Weiss pulled her Mamoswine away and sent out Manaphy.
"Mana Mana!" Manaphy cried as he squared up as Flareon used Baby Doll Eyes on him, but Manaphy shielded his eyes.
"Flare…!" Flareon growled as he used Quick Attack to charge at him, but Manaphy sprayed the field with water and dove underwater. "Flare…?" Flareon looked around as a water ring formed next to him. He immediately turned to use Fire Spin… but Manaphy did not come up as more water rings formed around him.
Flareon looked around while using Fire Spin or Flare Blitz, but kept hitting nothing but water… and then Manaphy made a big splash and used a watery uppercut on Flareon's chin to knock him high into the air.
"Phyyyyy!" Manaphy cried as he landed on the ground as Flareon was already knocked out by the time he landed on the ground.
What does she feed that thing? Penny wondered, recalling Flareon and sent out Leafeon.
"Leaf!" Leafeon cried as Weiss changed course again and sent out Razor after calling Manaphy back.
"Weavi!"
"Let me ask you something Weiss. Were you just going easy on Aless during Iono's stream? Because I just believed you were just a weak trainer compared to Blake!"
"I have no idea what you're talking about." Weiss said. "I just had some bad luck."
"Oh, don't give me that! You practically gave her that victory!"
Leafeon immediately used Baby Doll Eyes, but Razor turned his back and used Hone Claws. With a smirk, he turned around and faced Leafeon as it tried to use Baby Doll Eyes again, but Razor closed his eyes to not fall for the trick.
"Leaf…" Leafeon growled as she used Quick Attack as Razor ran forward as he immediately used Night Slash to clash against her Quick Attack, both of them bouncing back as Leafeon's leaf glowed as she ran ahead and used Leaf Blade, but Razor slid underneath and used Metal Claw, striking her and knocking her away.
"Leaf Leaf!" Leafeon grunted and used X-Scissor to knock Razor back and then jumped in with another X-Scissor, but Razor was prepared and dodged the X-Scissor as he hit her with a Dark Pulse, causing the Leafeon to flinch before Razor finished her off with Night Slash.
"Leaaaaf…" Leafeon groaned as she fell as Penny recalled her and then sent out Sylveon.
"Sylve!" Sylveon cried as Weiss switched Razor out for Mari.
"Now let your light shine, Sylveon!" Penny said, starting to Terastalize her as Weiss decided to do the same with Mari, both of them Terastallziing as the Primarina had the Water Tera Jewel on him.
"PRIMA/SYVLE!" Both cried.
The Sylveon proceeded to send a Shadow Ball toward Mari, but Mari got out of the way and sent out a powerful Hydro Pump, striking Sylveon as she responded in kind with a powered up Moonblast, hitting the Primarina.
"Prima…" Primarina winced as Sylveon didn't look that much better either as Mari proceeded to use Sparkling Aria, striking Sylveon and knocking her down, but Sylveon shook it off and went for a Quick Attack, but Mari used a power boosted Hydro Pump to send Sylveon away and knocked her out, her Tera Jewel disappearing.
End BGM
"And that's checkmate!" Weiss said as Mari's Tera Jewel disappeared.
"Hahahaha! Did you really think it would just be your average battle with six Pokemon?"
"Huh?"
Penny activated another Pokeball. "I don't play by the rules!"
BGM: Battle! Penny (FamilyJules)
Penny sent out her next Pokemon.
"Glace!"
"Alright, then I guess we'll do whatever it takes!" Weiss declared.
"Rina!"
Glaceon immediately started out with Snowscape before going for a Freeze-Dry on Mari, who quickly avoided the attack and hit her with Moonblast. "Glace…" Glaceon shook it off and tried to go for Baby Doll Eyes, but Mari looked away and sang in an Alluring Voice, striking Glaceon with her melody.
"Glaaaace~" Glaceon sighed softly despite getting hurt. She then shook it off and went for another Freeze-Dry, this time connecting.
"Primaaaa!" Mari cried as Weiss winced, quickly switching her Primarina out for Razor as Glaceon let out a cry and went for a Last Resort as Razor jumped in and used Metal Claw to counter, both moves connecting as Glaceon went down for the count while Razor barely held on from that hard hitting move.
Weiss pulled out a Full Restore and healed Razor back up as he sprang back up and squared up right as Penny sent out Espeon.
"Espe!"
"Weavi." Razor smirked as Espeon proceeded to use Dazzling Gleam on him, but he dove into the snow to avoid the attack and then shot out, striking her with Night Slash as Espeon cried out and was knocked to the side.
Rrrgh, I can't even use Psychic moves on this thing! Penny thought as Espeon shot out a Shadow Ball as Razor backhanded the Shadow Ball to deflect it and then swooped in with Dark Pulse to finish it off easily.
"Espe…" Espeon groaned as she went down as Penny recalled her, then opened up her bag as Eevee came out, peeking his head out and jumped out.
"Eevai!"
"Ending it with Eevee, huh? Talk about anti-climactic."
"I wouldn't be so sure, Schnee. This Eevee is straight from Kanto!"
"So?"
"Watch and learn." Penny smirked. "Show me some love, Eevee!"
The Eevee turned around and gave Penny a high five before turning around… and shot straight like a rocket before Razor could even do anything as an explosion happened behind the Eevee.
"WEEEVIIIIII!" Weavile cried as he could barely stand.
"Huh?!" Weiss yelled in surprise as the Eevee turned around as his fur burst into flames and proceeded to slam into the Weavile to finish him off.
What just happened?! Weiss thought as she recalled her knocked out Weavile.
"I've never seen an Eevee do that before! What the heck just happened?" Ruby asked.
"Something tells me this is a special Eevee…" Blake said.
"Oooh, I hope Weiss can make it out of this." Neptune said.
Weiss sent out Manaphy, who started off with Tail Glow and then made another pool of water and dove into the water. However, Eevee jumped into the air.
"Vai!" Eevee cried, unleashing Buzzy Buzz and electrocuting the entire arena as Manaphy came out crying out in pain as Eevee landed as Manaphy held on, but was Paralyzed by the attack, giving Eevee the opportunity to surround himself in a mystical veil.
"VEE!" He cried, unleashing Glitzy Glow to finish Manaphy off with the shockwaves, knocking Manaphy away as Weiss instinctively caught him.
"Oh sweetie…" Weiss whispered, giving him a Full Restore and a kiss on the forehead as she sat him down next to her ankle, then sent out Tusky.
"Mammmooooo!"
Tusky went for an Earthquake, hitting the little guy but he shook it off and put his paw on the ground as a giant vine came up as giant seeds came down and slammed into Tusky. "Mammooooo…!" Tusky cried as he could barely stand as he used Earth Power, but Eevee jumped on the rock spire and conjured up bubbles and then sent them toward the weakened Mamoswine, where he fell for the count after Bouncy Bubble connected.
A bead of sweat rolled down Weiss' cheek as she called out Frost.
"Froslaaa!" Froslass cried, quickly using Aurora Veil and then used Shadow Ball, but Eevee jumped out of the way as he jumped through the Aurora Veil to get up close and personal and used Sizzly Slide to slam into the Froslass, knocking her back as Frost countered with a Blizzard, only for the Eevee to disappear into the blizzard and jumped in from the side, unleashing Baddy Bad to knock Frost down.
"Eevai!" Eevee cried as he jumped back and was raring to knock out Weiss' next Pokemon.
Crap, what do I do?! This Eevee is a freakin' monster!
Weiss, send us out. Calyrex telepathically said to her as Weiss nodded and sent out Calyrex and Glastrier, then he hopped on Glastrier.
"So the king arrives." Penny said. "I don't bow down to royalty."
"That's an impressive Eevee you have. Let's see what it can do." Calyrex said as Glastrier kicked its hoof back.
Weiss, I want you to follow my lead. I have an idea. Calyrex telepathically said to her.
What do you have in mind? Weiss asked.
"Are they having a discussion…?" Penny wondered. "It doesn't matter! Eevee!"
"Vai!"
Calyrex formed a Glacial Lance. "En garde!" He declared as Glastrier hoofed it toward Eevee as the latter got ready to pounce with Veevee Volley as they both slammed into each other, both knocking each other back as the explosion knocked Glastrier and Calyrex back, but they both shook it off.
"VOOOOW!" Eevee cried, unleashing Baddy Bad but Calyrex managed to get out of the shadowy field and proceeded to charge up his lance, giving Eevee time to strike with a Sizzly Slide, hitting both Pokemon as Calyrex finished charging and fired a Solar Beam, hitting the Eevee.
"Vaaaai!" Eevee cried, but shook it off and flicked his ears as he turned toward Penny again.
Now Weiss! Calyrex cued as they both charged at each other with Glacial Lance and Veevee Volley, both of them slamming into each other and knocking each other away with a powerful explosion… drowning out the sound of a melody.
"Vai Vee Vay…" Eevee shook it off.
"You got this! Knock the king off of his-" A shadow loomed over Penny as she looked up to see a giant orb of water. "...Throne…?!"
"Vai?!" Eevee said in surprise as the first resounding explosion was to secretly mask the sound of a Pokeball opening up and the second Veevee Volley/Glacial Lance was Weiss' cue to dance and activate her Primarina's Z-Move.
"Rinaaaaa!" Mari moved the water orb toward Eevee's spot.
"Vai!" Eevee growled, charging up Buzzy Buzz but Calyrex and Glastrier got up, the former stopping the Eevee in his tracks with Psychic. "Vee?!"
"DO IT!" Weiss yelled.
"RINAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA~!" Mari sang as the water bubble popped as it rained down on Eevee.
"VEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" Eevee cried as the dust settled… and then the Eevee fell to the ground in defeat.
End BGM
Weiss sighed in relief. "Thank goodness…" She said.
Penny let out a defeated sigh. "It's finally over, guys… it's done."
A year and a half ago…
BGM: Team Star Flashback (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"We're done here. I think we should call it quits."
"Hold up… are you sayin' we should break up the team…? You gotta be joking!" Giacomo said.
"We got carried away with Operation Star… Now everything's gotten out of hand."
"Yeah, well, that's what happens when you round up a buncha bullies in the courtyard and make a show of learning 'em some manners." Mela said.
"But we didn't even fight them in the end. We didn't do anything wrong!" Eri pointed out.
"Indeed." Atticus folded his arms. "Merely did we declare our intention to battle tooth and nail should the villains persist in their tyrannous oppression. 'Twas a bloodless victory, we assure you!"
"Yeah! They didn't even send out their Pokemon! They just blubbered and apologized a whole lot. Our outfits must've spooked them good!" Ortega grinned.
"But the bullies made a huge stink about what went down, and then they all ended up leaving the academy. Our plan backfired epically. There's no way we're getting off scot-free."
"I guess you're right… this little stunt might've put us up in the creek." Giacomo grimaced.
"I'll fix this mess on my end. Just leave it to me."
"What're you sayin'?" Mela asked.
"I'm the one who started Team Star. I dragged you all into this. So I'll take responsibility for everything."
"Oh, noble and kind big boss. You cannot…" Atticus frowned.
"Now that the bullies are gone, you guys should start going to school again."
"Oh yeah? What about you?" Mela wondered.
"I can't go back."
"Why? There's no reason for you to stay shut in your room anymore, right?" Giacomo asked.
"All I can say to you guys is… thanks. Even though we never met in person, you were all so kind to me."
"Stop right there, B.B.! Why are you talking like we'll never speak again?!" Eri asked.
"I need to go take care of some things…"
"Prithee, speak to us! What is thine intent?" Atticus asked.
Cassiopeia said nothing.
"Hey, Big Boss! Answer us!" Ortega demanded.
Outside, Penny was looking out the window as a tear fell from her eye.
"Bye-bye, guys… thanks for everything."
Penny walked away.
End BGM
Back in the present…
BGM: A Touching Moment (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
Penny sighed. "Weiss… thank you for everything, same with everyone who helped out. You too, Director Clavell."
"Anytime." Clavell nodded. "I'm glad we all saw this through to the end."
"I guess this is it for Team Star, and for me as well…"
"Now, I'd like to check with you something first… as I'm assuming you dodged Weiss' question. Why all this? Why resort to something like Operation Starfall if you're the big boss of Team Star? Wasn't there any other way to handle this?"
"I tried telling them that we were done once before. But they still didn't quit…"
"Why not simply order them to?"
"Our code states that no one in the team has the right to order people around. I could ask them all to do stuff, but I could never order them."
"Ah, so back to the code again… the bosses must've taken it very seriously."
"They did. That's why I knew I could use it to force Team Star to disband."
"Because the bosses would do anything the code required of them? Even leave the team?"
"Yes… and according to the code, they had to accept any challenge made to them."
"Thus the idea of Team Starfall… yet you seemed resistant to disband, hence your battle with Ms. Schnee. Why is that?"
"Without Team Star, I… I wouldn't have any friends. I consider them my true companions even though we've never met in person. As… sappy as this sounds, they're my greatest treasure."
A warm sensation filled Weiss' heart once more, as she gently clenched her chest. It wasn't as intense as it was before, but it was enough to nearly make her cry.
And yet… she felt like there was a piece missing.
"Now I have a question for you, Director. What's up with that outfit? Why even disguise yourself as… that? Like, the outfit's nice, but… the pompadour is a bit much. Like, you wouldn't even win any popularity contests with that if you were going head to head with Aless!"
Clavell sweatdropped. "Mmmph… does no one like the outfit…?" He grumbled as he took off the disguise, shedding his pompadour wig. "Well, to tell you the truth, delinquents get a bit skittish around adults, so I thought I would get to the bottom of this by becoming a student myself, to get to their level. I found a much deeper understanding that way."
"I see…"
"Now then, there's something else that must be discussed… you can all come out now!"
"Huh?" Penny wondered.
"Yo, Big Boss! Long time no see!"
Penny's eyes widened as she turned to see the Team Star bosses approaching her.
BGM: Team Star's Reunion (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"M-Momo?!" Penny said in surprise.
"More like "Long time no meet", right? I mean, we only just found out your name just now!" Mela said.
"Mellie…"
"Verily is thy long-hidden countenance a sight for sore eyes, my lady."
Penny started to tear up. "At-Atticus."
"Soooo… uh…" Ortega tapped his index fingers together. "I heard your real name's Penny? How've you been this whole time?" He shyly asked.
"Ortie…"
"We found you at last… you've no idea how worried we've been! Plus, I got a sneak peek at the real you back at my base. You're totally cute in person~!" Eri gushed.
Penny blushed as tears threatened to fall from her eyes. "Eri…"
Giacomo turned to his friends. "Alright, gang! On the count of three! One… two…"
End BGM
BGM: Hasta la vistar, Cassiopeia! (Pokemon Scarlet and Violet)
"Hasta la vistar, Cassiopeia! And hello, Penny!" The five said in unison that was enough to make Penny break down sobbing. In fact, it was enough to make Weiss struggle to contain her emotions along with everyone else. Even Clavell struggled to keep his composure.
"You guys…" Penny sobbed as they all hugged her, with her hugging her back.
"Ahem…" Clavell cleared his throat once he composed himself and once Penny stopped crying. "On behalf of the academy, I have something I would like to say to Team Star."
He suddenly bowed. "You all have my sincerest apologies."
Penny wiped her eyes. "What…?"
"As director of the academy, I let you down. My handling of your situation was a dismal failure…"
"Wha-...? I still don't… I mean… why?"
"You all told me your reasons for forming Team Star and about your subsequent actions. Ever since my first days as Director, all I've ever experienced of the academy is an environment blessedly free from bullying. But I know now that this peace was built on the backs of your hurt and anger, and of course, your immense courage in putting things to right. And so, I'll get straight to the conclusion. The academy's order for Team Star to disband and my threat to expel those who did not obey… are hereby revoked!"
All their eyes widened.
"Does that mean what I think it means?!" Giacomo said in surprise.
"Indeed! Team Star can continue to exist, should that be your wish!"
"Woohoo~! That means we can stay together, Penny~!" Eri smiled.
"Oh, mine heart is giddy with glee…" Atticus sighed happily.
"But… I… betrayed you all."
"You mean Operation Starfall? Director Clavell told us all about it!" Ortega said.
"Far as we heard, you only went through with it to save us from getting expelled!" Giacomo said. "You were just worried about us, right?"
"Not like we'd ever chuck the team just 'cause someone told us to, after all. Ain't our style." Mela said.
"I cannot even begin to imagine how you must have fear'd for us, Lady Penny." Atticus said.
"Sorry for making you worry, B.B. We're all okay now!" Eri reassured.
"But… But I…"
"Now… there is more to discuss…" Clavell said as they turned to face him. "As previously stated, the requirement for Team Star to disband has been revoked. However! There are still some unsettled matters to discuss. Allow me to provide some examples."
End BGM
Clavell readjusted his glasses. "Your protracted truancy! Your brazen customization of school uniforms!"
Team Star grimaced while sweatdropping while Weiss slowly backed away from this as Clavell kept scolding them.
"I… think they're gonna be there for a while." Yang said.
"Yeah." Blake nodded as she shifted her eyes. "Hmm? Where'd Ruby go?"
"She slipped out. She said she had somewhere to be." Yang said. "She left after Penny lost."
"I wonder where she ran off to…" Sun said. "...Come to think of it, Pit's gone too."
Meanwhile, with Aless…
Alessandra walked into the center of Mesagoza. "Okay, this cryptic text message said to meet them here in the square. I wonder what's going on?"
From up above the building, someone peeked up from above and let out a giggle while everyone else was waiting around.
"Come on, we were this close to the league…" Nemona frowned.
"Oh, you can afford a few extra minutes, miss impatient." Arven said as suddenly, the individual launched off of the roof and then landed in front of Alessandra in a pile of rose petals.
"Yo!"
"Rubes?!" Alessandra jumped in surprise. "Where'd you come from?!"
"Hi~! I just thought I'd challenge you to a Pokemon battle!" Ruby giggled as Pit hopped off of the roof and landed near the others.
"Jumping off the roof was her idea." Pit chuckled.
"A surprise Pokemon battle before I hit the league… Oh, what the heck, I could use some practice!" Alessandra smiled.
Ruby giggled as she jumped back. "Alright, I'm warning ya, I'm gonna go all out!"
"Good, I was hoping you would." Alessandra smirked.
BGM: Battle! Elite Four - Hoenn (GaMetal)
Quick of the Draw - Ruby
I have a pretty good feeling she excels at Grass types… I know she's got a Houndoom, but this should be an easy one. She thought as she sent out Wisp while Ruby sent out Primrose.
"Ceru!"
"Roserade!"
Primrose immediately started off by sending out Toxic Spikes everywhere. Wisp quickly ran over and used Bitter Blade, but before it could connect, Ruby immediately switched out Primrose, making Wisp stumble before catching himself as he jumped back as Ruby sent out Fuchsia.
"Luran!"
A Lurantis, eh? Alessandra thought. "Alright, Wisp. Show that Lurantis-"
In a blink of an eye, the Lurantis was already in Wisp's face and used Night Slash, sending Wisp airborne.
"HUH?!" Alessandra yelled as Wisp quickly recovered, staggering from that surprise hit as his blades caught ablaze.
"Ceru!" Wisp growled as he lunged and slashed at Fuchsia, but the Lurantis disappeared in the blink of an eye and proceeded to run around, hitting Wisp whenever she could.
How many energy drinks did she give this thing?! Alessandra wondered as Wisp struggled to fight back until Fuschia swiped down with a Night Slash to knock Wisp down for the count.
"Luran!"
Alessandra blinked. "Oookay…" She said as she recalled Wisp and sent out Sherry.
"Tsaree!" Sherry cried as she stepped on a Toxic Spike. "Reena…" She winced before squaring up at the Lurantic. Fuchsia lunged forward and swiped down, but Sherry countered with Triple Axel, clashing against the scythe blades until Sherry flip kicked the Lurantis, knocking her away…
…And transformed into a Zoroark as Scarlet landed on the ground.
"So that explains it…" Alessandra said.
Scarlet jumped in and used Night Slash at Tsareena, but Sherry cartwheeled out of the way and used High Jump Kick, knocking the Zoroark away as she got closer. "Roark…!" Scarlet grunted while wincing, then proceeded to use Night Daze on Sherry, knocking her to the ground.
"Reena!" Sherry groaned as she got up, only to fall on one knee as Scarlet raised her claws up to finish her with Night Slash but Sherry unleashed Leaf Storm to blind the Zoroark and disappeared into the storm.
"Roark…" Zoroark looked around as Sherry ran up behind him and jumped up, using Trop Kick but Scarlet turned around and caught her leg with a smirk. However, Sherry had a free leg and axe kicked her in the head to make her release her as she dropped down in front of the groaning Zoroark and hit her with a High Jump Kick to finish her off.
"Roaaaark…" Scarlet groaned as she was recalled back as Sherry fell on both knees with Alessandra swiftly spraying an Antidote on her.
"Tsaree Ree…" Sherry smiled as she staggered up as her next opponent was the actual Fuchsia.
"Luran!"
"Tsaree." Sherry grunted as she immediately went for a Triple Axel, but Fuschia blocked with her scythe arms and countered with X-Scissor, immediately knocking Sherry down for the count as Alessandra recalled her Tsareena and sent out Raffia.
"Umbre!"
I know Dark is weak against Bug moves, but Raffia's beaten the odds before. Alessandra thought as the Umbreon winced from the poison.
Fuchsia raised her arms up and unleashed Sunny Day, temporarily changing the night to day as she immediately swung down with Solar Blade, but Raffia quickly avoided the move and leapt forward, hitting Fuchsia with Iron Tail but Fuchsia responded by clashing against him with Solar Blade, both knocking each other back.
Fuchsia would lunge with Leaf Blade and swung down, but Raffia jumped away and fired a Shadow Ball that knocked Fuchsia back and then hit her with Dark Pulse, knocking Fuchsia down.
"Lurana…!" Fuchsia swung with a Solar Blade as Umbreon countered with an Iron Tail, but the latter was still grazed by it as he shook it off and then ran toward her as Fuschia used X-Scissor but Raffia flanked her and then used Iron Tail to knock Fuchsia to the ground. "Luraaaan…" Fuchsia groaned as Raffia jumped back as Alessandra used another Antidote on him.
Ruby chuckled, smirking as she sent out her next Pokemon.
"Shifu!"
"What the hell is that thing?!" Alessandra wondered as Cian scanned the Pokemon.
"Urshifu, the Wushu Pokemon and the evolved form of Kubfu - Single Strike: This form of Urshifu is a strong believer in the one-hit KO. Its strategy is to leap in close to foes and land a devastating blow with a hardened fist. Inhabiting the mountains of a distant region, this Pokémon races across sheer cliffs, training its legs and refining its moves."
"Fighting/Dark?" Cian wondered as Gloria whispered in his ear, causing him to pale. "THAT THING'S A LEGENDARY?!"
"WHAT?!" Alessandra yelled as Urshifu got into his pose and looked down at the Umbreon before him.
"Umbre…" Raffia grimaced, knowing full well that he's probably going to be in for a world of hurt.
"Oh man! I want to fight her so bad! That looks like an amazing Pokemon to fight~!" Nemona's eyes sparkled.
"Doooown girl!" Marnie said, trying to hold her steady with Arven, Carmine, Hop, Sonia, Victor, Neo, Bede, Coco and Velvet. Even Mewtwo had to step in to control her.
Umbreon's tail glowed silver as he immediately went for a Iron Tail, but Urshifu responded with a Detect, and then had him right where he wanted and struck him with a Dynamic Punch, sending Umbreon flying into Alessandra as she caught him but fell on her butt.
"Mmmph!" Alessandra grunted.
"Oooh! Sorry about that!" Ruby apologized as Alessandra got up and kissed Raffia on the head as she pulled him back and then sent out Rio.
"Quaqua-... val…!" Rio winced as he stepped on a Toxic Spike. He shook it off and squared up against Urshifu, who simply smirked and did a "come at me" hand gesture as they both launched toward each other as they both immediately started swinging at each other in a slug fest, throwing hooks and kicks at each other as they knocked each other back as Rio went for Acrobatics but Urshifu used Detect to block him, then grabbed his leg and threw him down… and went for a Wicked Blow to knock him on his back.
Quaquaval sprang back up as they both went back at it, both of them smirking as Urshifu swung at him with a Focus Punch and Rio came in with a roundhouse kick, both moves hitting each other square in the cheek as they both stumbled a bit as Rio swiftly ran over and used Close Combat, but Urshifu used Detect, but Rio smirked and jumped up, using Acrobatics right as the Detect faded out as the Acrobatics connected, striking Urshifu as he fell to the ground.
"Quaquava!" Rio posed as Urshifu rose back up and turned toward Rio, pounding his fist into his palm and bowed in respect toward Rio as he hobbled over to Ruby.
"You fought amazing, big guy!" Ruby giggled, putting him back in his ball while Alessandra used an Antidote on him while Rio held steady.
"Phew…" Alessandra sighed in relief.
Ruby giggled, immediately sending Primrose back out.
"Roserade!" Primrose cried and then sent out another helping of Toxic Spikes as Alessandra switched Rio out for Tut, which thanks to the second dose of Toxic Spikes, he was Badly Poisoned as a result.
"Espa…" Espathra groaned as he glared at the Roserade.
Primrose unleashed Solar Beam on the Espathra, due to the effects of Sunny Day but Tut jumped to the side as he ran forward and used Lumina Crash on Roserade. Primrose tried to dodge it, but Espathra managed to get her anyway. "Rade…!" Primrose grunted as she could barely stand.
"Roseraaaa!" Primrose attempted to use Magical Leaf, but Tut hit her with Psychic to finish her off. "Raaaade…" Primrose moaned as Ruby recalled her and then sent out Flutter Mane.
"Misdreaaaa!"
This Misdreavus is gonna be a pain… Alessandra thought. Mmm… I know what I could do but it's risky… but it's worth a shot!
She used an Antidote on Tut and then called him back and then sent out Athena, and immediately started to charge up her Tera Orb.
"Try to stop it!" Ruby said as Flutter Mane used Moonblast on Athena right as Alessandra threw the Tera Orb at Athena, hitting her on the head around the same time as the Moonblast connected.
"Dragoooo!" Athena cried while also badly poisoned, but was able to Terastalize but was severely weakened by the Moonblast.
Cutting it close here…
Alessandra clenched her fists, using an Antidote on her Dragonite.
"Even if you did Tera your Dragonite, you only have one attack that will be effective!"
"I know… but it's a good thing I decided to teach Athena a few tricks after my fight with Arvie!"
"Dragooooo!" Athena cried as she started to dance, where clouds rolled in and getting rid of Sunny Day as it started to rain into the evening.
"Rain Dance?" Ruby wondered as suddenly they heard a loud thunder clap as Thunder slammed down on top of Flutter Mane.
"MISDREAAAAA!" Flutter Mane cried as she was then hit with Paralysis as the cherry on top as Athena swiftly used Hurricane right after. "Misdreaaa…" Flutter Mane moaned dizzily.
"Ah, you've been busy~!" Ruby smiled as she used a Full Heal on Flutter Mane who snapped out of it and used Psyshock on Athena, where she quickly flew out of the way to avoid it and proceeded to fly directly at her with Steel Head.
Flutter Mane quickly flew out of the way to avoid the attack as Athena let out a cry as another Thunder struck Flutter Mane as she let out a cry as Athena flew in and used Steel Head to finish Flutter Mane off.
"Misdreaaaa…"
"You did well, sweetie." Ruby recalled her Flutter Mane and then smirked, sending out Grim.
"Houndooooo!"
"And there's the hound." Alessandra said, recalling her Dragonite and then sent out her Quaquaval.
"Quava…" Rio winced at the bad poisoning.
Ruby chuckled as she touched the Mega Stone on her plant wrist, proceeding to Mega Evolve her Houndoom.
"DOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!"
"Bring it, Rubes!" Alessandra smirked as both Pokemon launched themselves toward each other as Rio immediately used Close Combat, but Grim jumped to the side and Crunched down on him.
Rio let out a growl and kicked him away as he used Liquidation, but Grim dodged it and used Flamethrower as Rio danced around it and ran over, using Aqua Step on him but Grim responded with Inferno, engulfing Rio as he let out a cry…
And then Rio came down with a point blank Close Combat, knocking the Houndoom away as Grim shook it off and used Flamethrower, but Rio jumped over and quickly used Liquidation, hitting him head on.
Grim refused to go down as they both lunged at each other with a Close Combat and Crunch, both moves hitting each other… as Grim was the first to go down.
"Quavaqual!" Rio cheered… and then went down for the count as well, forcing both ladies to recall their Pokemon.
"Looks like I win." Alessandra said.
"Not quite!" Ruby smirked as she pulled out one last Pokeball and sent out Fleur.
"Venusauuuur!"
How many Pokemon does she have?! Alessandra wondered as she clenched her fists and then sent out Espathra.
"Espaaaa!" Tut cried before feeling the effects of the Toxic Spikes.
End BGM
Ruby chuckled. "Now let's get wild~!"
BGM: Battle! Vs Neo Galar Champion (Pokemon Masters EX)
Ruby aimed her Pokeball at Fleur, sending him back in as the Pokeball grew big and pink as she immediately used her semblance to turn around and threw the ball into the air, Gigantamaxing her Venusaur.
"SAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUURRRRRR!"
"Two can play that game!" Alessandra said, pulling Espathra in and proceeding to Dynamax him and threw him behind her.
"ESPAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
"G-MAX VINE LASH!"
"MAX MINDSTORM!"
"VEEENASAUUUUUUUR!" Fleur swung down his vines at Tut as he fought back with Max Mindstorm, striking the G-Max Venusaur. However, Fleur wasn't giving up as he used Vine Lash again.
"Espa Pa…" Tut groaned as he immediately used Max Mindstorm again, but the Vine Lash smacked him in the face, and to make matters worse… the poison just about did Tut in, causing an explosion that made Espathra shrink back down to normal size.
"Rrrgh…" Alessandra growled as she recalled Tut and sent out her Tera Dragonite, immediately spraying her with an ordinary Potion when she had meant to hit her with a Hyper Potion, but Athena was still ready to go and flew over toward the Venusaur.
Fleur swung his vines down at Athena, but she swiftly barrel rolled to avoid the massive vine as she responded by hitting him with a Hurricane.
"SAUUUUR!" Fleur cried before he shrunk back down to normal size as the Dragonite flew down to his level and flew in with a Steel Head, but Fleur grabbed him with Power Whip, holding him down with both vines and slammed her to the ground hard enough to knock the Tera jewel off of her head.
"Drago…!"
"This is checkmate!" Ruby smirked.
"Come on, HANG IN THERE!" Alessandra yelled as Fleur slammed her into the ground again.
"Drago… Drago…. DRAGOOOOOOOOOOOO!" Athena cried as a massive lightning bolt struck down on the Venusaur.
"SAAAAAUR!" Venusaur cried, and to add insult to injury, Fleur got paralyzed as he dropped the Dragon Pokemon as she fell on one knee, and then swung her arms to unleash a Hurricane to strike the Venusaur. "SAAAAAUUUUUUUURRR!" Venusaur cried… before he fell limp as Athena fell on her butt in exhaustion.
"Oh please me you don't have any more…" Alessandra hoped.
"Nope~! That was it!" Ruby smiled.
"Oh thank Arceus…" Alessandra sighed in relief as the rain stopped as the moon beat down gently upon the field.
End BGM
Unbeknownst to Alessandra, the whole town of Mesagoza had come to watch the grand event as they all cheered for both of them. "Man… I don't think I've ever come that close…" Alessandra chuckled.
"You were amazing out there, Aless!" Ruby smiled.
"Really? I thought I was a goner for a second there."
Alessandra chuckled. "You're a hell of an adversary, Rubes." She said as they pulled each other into a hug.
Gloria chuckled. "Alright, now it's my turn. Hey lass!"
"Hmm?" Alessandra turned to her.
"I've gottae make some last minute preparations for our fight, so go on ahead to the league without me."
"You sure?"
"Positive~! Besides…" She pulled out her Rotom Phone. "Just make sure ye live stream it, okay? I wouldntae wannae miss it!"
"Okay!" Alessandra smiled. "Go make whatever preparations ya gotta make Glori, because I'm comin' for ya." She smirked.
"Lookin' forward to it." Gloria smirked back as they walked off their separate ways… with Alessandra quickly running over to a Pokemon Center to heal up.
"There you are, Ruby! We heard a massive Pokemon battle going on!" Yang said as they walked up to her.
"Yeah, sorry… I didn't want to miss Aless before she went to the Pokemon League. How's Penny doing?"
"Getting scolded by Clavell along with the rest of Team Star… they're gonna be there a while. Had to pull lover boy away so he wouldn't interfere."
"Hey!" Nagisa blushed.
"Hey, Ruby? I got a question for you." Arven said. "HOW THE HELL DID YOU MANAGE TO TAME A PARADOX MISDREAVUS?!"
"Ah… long story…" Ruby scratched her cheek.
"Oh, I think we got plenty of time to talk about it on our way to the league!"
As they were walking, Acerola and Allister walked with them, only for the latter to turn his head to see Bea and Korrina at a table, trying to figure out where else they could look.
"Sis!" Allister called out.
"Bro?!" Bea exclaimed in surprise, relief washing over her as she and Korrina ran over and hugged him.
"Aww, group hug~!" Acerola hugged them with a giggle.
"Where were you?" Bea asked.
"We tried to chase after Korrina, but then Ace got distracted by a Mimikyu and chased it all the way to Glaseado. I had to go after her."
"Oh good grief…" Bea sighed in dismay while Korrina couldn't help but laugh as she ruffled up Acerola's head.
Once Alessandra healed up and Nemona guided her where they needed to go, they ran through the field and headed straight for the building in front of them.
However, the doors opened up as Hiyoko walked out and saw the group.
"Took y'all long enough." Hiyoko teased.
"What do you mean…?" Alessandra wondered.
Hiyoko smiled, tossing an Ultra Ball in the air and catching it. "Isn't it obvious? I softened them up for you~!"
I don't know what it is, but the ending of Penny's story always gets me choked up more than Mabosstiff being fully cured... I don't know why.
Ibuki: Woooow! Ruby-chan really made her work for that victory!
Deadpool: Down to the wire!