~Attractive Altomare Chapter 22~
~Sirens in the Distance~
Stampeding footfalls echoed through Altomare's narrow back alleys as law enforcement officers rushed through, led by Sheriff Jenny. Urgent calls from concerned citizens had pushed the city's officers into action. Jenny had issued an alert to every Ace Trainer in the area and urged them to be on the lookout for any signs of a potential terrorist. With little to go on other than the explosion that had shaken the town earlier, they were determined to find any leads.
She signaled for officers to spread out and search as she took her faithful Growlithe to investigate her own sector. Turning several corners through the twisting pathways, Jenny found herself at a crossroads. Looking around, she cursed the city's intricate layout. Even though she'd been there for years, it still threw her for a loop.
"Growlithe! Grrrr!"
Jenny's eyes widened as she turned the corner, heart racing. Just ahead, a Scyther stood menacingly over a teenager sprawled on the ground. Both of the Pokémon's scythe-like arms were raised, poised on either side of the youth. The boy looked barely conscious, his torso wrapped in bloody, torn rags that looked hastily transformed into makeshift bandages. Jenny's hand shot to her radio, instincts kicking in—was the Scyther about to finish him off? Not on her watch!
"Flamethrower, now!" she shouted to her Pokemon. From Growlithe's maw unleashed a gout of flame that made the Scyther take off into the sky as it barely singed his legs.
The Scyther cried out, glaring at the offending fire dog before preparing to strike back. Brandishing his deadly blades, the bug type swooped down. With a mighty swipe, it gouged deep into the side of the fire type and sent Growlithe flying backward.
Paws skidding on the cobble streets as her Growlithe winced in pain. The bug type glanced out the corner of his eye at the boy for just a moment before noticing the fire dog trying his luck again. "SCY! Scyther!"
Her Growlithe shook his head, stepping forward. "Grr! Growl! Lith! Growl!"
With nothing left to distract them, both Pokemon prepared to strike as Sato began to move in the background.
He couldn't see exactly what was happening, but he clenched his right hand. Turning it over, he felt the cold cobble beneath him as he moved it up the wall he currently sat against. Struggling to his feet and hugging the wall, Sato grunted. Both of the Pokemon and Jenny gaped at him.
"Sccccyyyyttttheeerr ," His Scyther hissed excitedly, making the Growlithe seem to do a double take.
As everything came into focus, he saw Scyther and Growlithe clearly before turning to see the officer. For the first time in the last bit, he smiled although shakily.
"Ngghh… Scyther, back off!" Sato commanded, seeing his Pokemon put his blades down and to move into a more neutral position.
Hearing this, the Growlithe backed off as his own trainer moved in. "You look like you've been through a lot, kid. What's your name?" Jenny asked.
Sato perked up. "It's Sato! And ungh… My Scyther was guarding me because I couldn't stay awake." At that admission, the Growlithe looked down, its expression almost… ashamed?
"Growwwlll," it grumbled to Scyther.
"Scytha Scy." His bug Pokemon shrugged as the Growlithe adopted a surprised expression, but Sato spoke up.
"We were trying to find the Police Station, but I was too tired to keep moving…" He trailed off, omitting the part about Latios being the reason why he was so tired. "A nasty guy calling himself Hunter K is in town and he was trying to kill me!" He gritted his teeth, holding himself up against the wall. "We need your help! If we don't stop this guy, it'll be over for everyone!"
His plea didn't seem to have shocked the officer, but she did look to have a degree of understanding written on her face. "We already know about this man. Though, I never could have guessed he would strike out against a child, even if they were a Pokemon Trainer."
Sato frowned. "Wait… You already knew?" She nodded. "Then why aren't you all on patrol looking for him!?" His anger was palpable even as his hold on the wall slipped slightly.
As Jenny approached him, she attempted to reach out, but he backed up shakily. "I need an answer! This monster could've been taken care of already and none of you did anything!"
She adopted a sympathetic look. "It's never that easy, kid… We've got our orders to stay back and allow the higher ups to take care of the situation." She reached out again, and Sato didn't resist this time. "All we know is that we're trying to not make him suspicious. If he caught wind of the police actively searching for him, Hunter K would likely have already left and then he'd never be caught."
"But…" Sato didn't know what else to add.
"I get it. This is frustrating, but there's a protocol to follow for a reason."
The officer grabbed her radio. "I've got a kid here," she said. "He seems to be alright, if a bit tired. I need some assistance to get him back to the Pokemon Center."
A reply came quickly. "Copy that. Where exactly is your location, Ma'am?"
She pulled out her phone, checking the map function on it. "Between sectors six and seven."
"Copy that. We'll get there soon!" It clicked out with that.
She clipped the radio back on her uniform. "We can try to move if you're able. If not, just take it easy."
Sato shook slightly, a look of shame crossing his face. "I need to move…" He looked to his trembling hand, "I have to!"
As he did so, Scyther walked to him, anxiously reaching out. Growlithe padded toward Jenny, shaking his head as he leaned close to his partner. Jenny patted his head while the bug Pokemon looked on with slight worry.
He'd been beaten through the mud throughout this entire trip.
Throughout his entire journey, really.
All of the battles fought before this had been tough, now it just felt even worse. Sato had lost to Whitney so many times before finally clutching up with a team that could make the cut. Now he was failing to fight villains with incredible Pokemon that were far out of his reach. Every time he got better at something, he was knocked back down.
Sato couldn't stop thinking back on those failures even as he struggled to stay up. Each one of them had broken his demeanor, making him feel completely inadequate. It weighed on his mind even though one part of him pushed those thoughts away. He wanted to be happy, so why didn't he feel able to step up?
If I can't pull through this… If I can't do anything right… How can I face her or myself?
The world began to fade again, his exhaustion catching up with him. Slumping back down, he fell unconscious. Jenny held onto him as Scyther did his best to help, but Sato was falling back into his last victory. The last time he'd pushed for his dreams before running away with his tail between his legs.
Sato stepped into the gym, a confident look on his face. It'd taken him a whole month to put this team together. He'd trained really hard after taking into account his nine losses. There was no way he'd accept another one. Not after all the effort.
He heard the doors close behind him, an anxious shock passing up his spine. Temptation had pulled him toward trying Morty's gym, but he found himself unworthy of moving forward.
Not until I beat this gym.
There wasn't a question in his mind of if, but when Sato could manage this feat. It had to be now. He could feel a difference in himself. Perhaps he was really in the zone despite the anxious energy surrounding himself.
As he reached the inner gym, he stood in the middle of a decent sized arena. The floor was cracked in a few places, but that was to be expected. It was hard enough to keep a gym maintained when having major battles weekly. Sato could swear these cracks were even from his past challenges over the course of the last two months. He could clearly see his team being tossed around like sacks of potatoes and the mental image made him groan in frustration. At least, on the inside.
"Ah, you're back! Champ in the making! Have you figured out an approach?" The question snapped Sato out of his funk as he stared wide eyed at the league official.
"Y- Yeah! Of course I did! I'm not leaving a tenth time without a badge!" he said with conviction.
"Well, I can certainly tell you've got a different feeling radiating off your persona." He flicked his phone screen until he nodded, "Yes, your name is right here, Sato."
Sato squirmed a little, trying to hold a brave face. "Right! That's me for sure!"
"Says here that your match will be held in about ten minutes or so… Good." He stuffed the phone into his jacket pocket with a smile."I'll go make sure Whitney is ready and you'll have your match! Good luck!" He turned to walk off toward a set of double doors that opened and shut just as quickly.
With a nervous gulp, Sato tapped at his pant leg. This is it… My test… He hoped his training would be enough… It just had to be!
He moved that hand up to his belt, tugging a Poke Ball off of it. Sato looked at it anxiously, turning it over and to the side. Treating it like a stress ball, he played with the metallic sphere.
I'll start with Scyther… She'll be surprised for sure! It'll be strong enough to take out her first two Pokemon, no problem!
If Bugsy had taught him anything, it was that this bug type was incredibly fast and powerful. The scythe-like blades of this Pokemon made quick work of my team, but when Charmander evolved, I took him on with little to no issue. The Swords Dance combo they used was effective, but once I figured out how to get past that, it was easy. He would just need to do that again.
The doors had opened again and his roadblock was standing there giving him a grin with teeth that glinted in the stadium lights. Her pink hair bobbed back and forth as her fiery eyes met his own. Sato could see the attractive woman before him, but also recognize the danger she posed to his entire career.
"I'm glad you've returned to be beaten again, Sato." She winked at him.
Sato shook his head, pushing away his nerves with a frustrated reply, "I won't lose this time! I'm going to beat you!" The declaration seemed to drag a small giggle from his opponent.
"We'll see about that!" she shouted back.
The League Official from earlier stepped into the middle of the arena just off to the side. He looked at Sato and then back at Whitney before speaking up loudly. "This will be a three on three match! The challenger Sato will be up against Goldenrod City's Whitney! The normal type gym leader extraordinaire!"
Whitney pulled a Pokeball off her belt as Sato's grip tightened on the one currently in his hand. The League Official continued, "Furthermore, only the challenger may make substitutions!" Lowering his arms, he shouted, "LET THE MATCH BEGIN!"
Whitney kissed the Pokeball before tossing it in the air. "Let's go, Teddiursa!"
Out of the bright light stood a rather small bear who just seemed out of sorts. Sato was intrigued as she hadn't used this Pokemon before. There was no time to waste on that thought because he had a battle to win. Clicking the button on the ball, he tossed the enlarged sphere."We'll show her, Scyther!"
With that, the bug Pokemon emerged looking quite ferocious. "Scy! Ther!" He slashed his blades through the air before clashing them together. This served to try and intimidate the bear.
However, this didn't do much as she seemed more curious than anything. "Teddi? Urrrr…?"
"You didn't have a Scyther before. Maybe you've really been putting in the effort after all!" She smirked, swinging her arm out.
"Teddiursa, use Fake Out!"
The bear leaned forward before she shot off at blinding speed toward her opponent. "Scyther, dodge it and use Slash on the floor!" Sato commanded with gusto as Scyther nodded.
His blades glowed a pale white as he prepared to move and slice downward, but Teddiursa was already there. She leapt up with glowing arms, slamming Scyther immediately in the jaw with a fierce clap. The bug's blades faltered, stopping their illustrious shine as he stumbled back with a full on flinch.
"Scyther?!" Sato clenched his fist, watching his Pokemon wobble backward.
"No time to waste! Use Attract!" Teddiursa obliged, twirling with a smooth swivel and showing her pronounced features. She then winked as hearts popped out of her eyes. Scyther was hit by the technique full on, adopting an enamored glower toward the bear.
"Now let's take a page from Scyther's book and use Slash!"
With glowing claws, Teddiursa pushed the attack with ferocious slashes that hit Scyther's torso.
"Sssssscyyyy!" he cried out slowly while Sato watched with ever lowering hopes.
"Scyther, please snap out of it!" he pleaded, seeing the bug type move backward as though the damage was still catching up with his love-addled mind.
Whitney looked disappointed. "You should recall him already! No point in continuing with your Pokemon out of sorts." She seemed prepared to end the match and I was running out of options. A tenth loss was looking like the reality of my situation, but even with that thought…
Something was off.
Yet, there was still a focus in my mind. Something I've experienced quite a few times. A determination stronger than the willpower held by Whitney or even himself in the past.
Something is off.
Balling his hands up into a fist, he cried out, "SCYTHER! SNAP OUT OF IT AND USE SLASH!"
"Finish him now, Teddiursa! Slash again!"
The little bear charged again, but as the slash came in, a flicker of cognition broke through. Teddiursa's claws met a singular blade that glowed distinctly faded white. Sparks lit up the area as Scyther grunted before thrusting his second blade and catching the bear in a slicing motion!
"URSA!" the bear shouted in pain, sending it flying backward. Tumbling over itself as it slammed harshly across the hard surface of the arena, it finally came to a stop. Traces of blood could be seen spilling down the side as Whitney looked on in shock.
A critical hit…
Teddiursa's eyes were little squiggles as Scyther looked on, readying himself in case the bear got up. The League Official held a green flag in Sato's direction declaring that Teddiursa was unable to battle.
With a small frown that uplifted into a smile, Whitney raised her Pokeball and returned Teddiursa. "I'll admit, that was really lucky! However, it's not over yet." Taking out another ball, she tossed it quickly enough.
"Alright Clefable! Are you ready?!" The question wasn't just aimed at her Pokemon, but at Sato as well.
He met Scyther's eyes, determination reflected back. "Are you?" He asked as Scyther clashed his blades together with a nod.
"SCY!"
"Clefable, kick it off with Metronome!"
The Clefable showed its main pointer fingers, starting to waggle them back and forth with an intense focus. A small glow came from the tips as both Sato and Scyther felt a powerful energy making its way out. The bug type spread his wings as his trainer shouted.
"Don't take any chances! Fly into the air now!"
The fairy type smirked as she watched Scyther soar into the sky, his wing beats propelling him ever faster through the gym. That's when Sato felt the subtle change of atmosphere.
"Hold on, Scyther! Somethin- AH!" Sato cried out, watching in disbelief.
Scyther slammed into the ground with a solid crunch as waves of purple energy emanated from Clefable! Whitney was grinning now.
"Looks like we hit the jackpot! Hope you like Gravity!" Whitney exclaimed, as Clefable smiled alongside her. "Now get in close and use Ice Punch!"
"Clefa! Fable!" she said, moving closer to the downed bug type.
"Scyther! She's coming closer! You gotta move!" Sato exclaimed, but the bug type was struggling in the gravity field that threatened to keep him on the floor.
Clefable's left fist produced an icy blue glow that solidified with the harshness of winter behind it! Scyther looked up with panic in his eyes, digging his blades into the ground around him. He tried pushing himself up. As his head lifted up to see the stomach of his aggressor, the cold fist slammed into his jaw. Then it happened again.
Sato watched as his newest team member took each solid hit. In a few seconds, another bashed his face right as the field wore off. Scyther flew backwards from the frigid blow like a sack of potatoes being tossed to the floor. Half of his chitin was covered in ice while Sato could only hyperventilate in horror.
Whitney looked at the young challenger with disdain. "Are you kidding me?! You let him take all those hits and didn't say a word?!"
Sato heard her, but he was too focused on Scyther. I've gotta say something. Do something! We came here to win! The words were there.
"Scyther! I know you've got more fight in you than that!"
Sato's call invigorated the bug type, making him get to his feet shakily. As the glare Scyther gave glinted in the gym lights, his trainer beamed.
"You really did get up!" He was going to cheer on the bug type, but he hesitated to keep going. Whitney's words flashed through his head and he made a new decision. Leveling his PokeBall at Scyther, he returned him to the safety of its embrace.
"You did good. Take a rest," Sato complimented him, seeing Whitney put her hands upon her hips.
"I see… You're pretty hard headed, but maybe this will sink in." Moving her left hand from her hip, She pointed at him, "Knowing when to make a substitution is an important part of growth for any trainer!"
Sato nodded, reaching for the next ball. "Right! I still have so much I need to do! This is just a stepping stone!"
He chucked the next ball as it burst open with the light thundering to the floor. The shape popped out, a Charmeleon that looked rather excited at the prospect of fighting the Clefable.
Sato still had misgivings. I've gotta strategize. I had hoped Scyther would carry me, but that was ridiculous to think… Still, I've gotta push forward! Clenching his hand, he brought it to his side.
"Charmeleon, are you ready?!" Sato knew he had to save his trump card for last. He wanted to surprise her and it looked to be working if Whitney's widening eyes were any indication.
The gym leader seemed at a loss and that's what Sato was hoping for. After all, he knew exactly what her last Pokemon would be. He only needed to be careful.
Just gotta shake off this feeling.
The fiery lizard swung its tail back and forth, sending shimmering sparks into the air. Hot embers burst from his maw as his teeth sparkled in the light refracting from the fire and stadium bulbs. His eyes narrowed at Clefable as Sato watched from the side.
Sato's head perspired as he felt the flames heat and he gladly took hold of it. "Okay, let's start with Metal Claw!"
His Charmeleon's claws glowed, extending slightly as he charged forward. Sato smiled, Metal Claw is super effective, they can't afford to be hit! He thought, seeing Clefable move to the side as the first swipe was made.
Multiple heavy swipes audibly slashed through the air as Clefable danced backwards. Sato gritted his teeth while watching this display. The dancing fairy smirked with each miss just as much as her trainer did.
Whitney wasn't even trying to hide it. "You really do have something up your sleeve… No trainer that's been through here would use their starter for anything but their last Pokemon."
Sato shook his head, "Charmeleon! Keep using Metal Claw, but use Flamethrower at the same time!"
"Clefable! Do another Metronome!" Once again, the damned fairy started wiggling her fingers.
The fire lizard leapt forward l but only swiped the air as Clefable jumped to the side. He swung his head, letting out a massive gout of flames that shot through the area, covering Clefable entirely in a ball of fire. Sato saw something through a hellacious blaze that sent a pang down his side.
It's still glowing! Wait! Fire moves aren't very effective on fairy types! Sato's thoughts were running on overload as he scrambled to find a solution, but the Clefable was covered in a watery veil almost immediately. A loud hissing sound echoed through the gym as a heavy fog took over the arena.
Sato couldn't see a thing, but he was sure that meant Charmeleon couldn't either. He heard a deafening crunch as out of the fog, his Pokemon shot out, slamming into the gym floor nearest himself. The fire lizard appeared to be covered in water as it shakily pushed itself up. One claw on his knee, Sato saw him struggling to look past the fog.
"Charmeleon! Try to blow the fog away with Dragon Rage!" Sato shouted, seeing his Pokemon nod as a surge of orange energy built up in his open maw.
With a triumphant roar, Chameleon sent the ball of raging energy flying into the fog, but it seemed to not affect anything at all. It didn't even hit! Oh… Fairy types wouldn't be affected by Dragon type moves either. He really should have paid more attention in his studies!
Wracking his mind, Sato did his best to figure out what else he could do. The fog was beginning to lift on its own and the two could see that Clefable was already preparing another Metronome. Charmeleon seemed reluctant to try either one of those moves again. Sato was briefly contemplating throwing out the original plan entirely by this point.
I could always resort to… Sneasel. He gulped, fresh memories of what happened last time he used her in battle. He'd never seen a Pokemon bleed so profusely before. Shaking his head, Sato decided against it.
I won't… Not until I can make it work out! Right, he just couldn't risk it at least not yet.
"What are you considering over there?! I've heard about you even before your nine loss streak against me. Falkner and I do get to talk every once in a while… The last time we spoke, he mentioned a young trainer named Sato with an incredibly powerful Sneasel." She said, making Sato snap out of his thoughts.
She continued. "If you want to rely on that, I won't stop you." She leaned in, directly staring him down with a big smirk, "After all, I have a feeling you'll lose either way if you don't figure something out soon." Sato hated that smirk.
He'd seen it too much.
"I don't need to use Sneasel! I can do this!" He shouted back, clenching his fists in abject frustration for even mustering the idea. No, he'd definitely be fine!
"Then prove it!" She demanded with a small wink attached.
Sato realized that Clefable was once again ready with yet another fully charged Metronome, but he wasn't letting it get the better of him. "Charmeleon, let's get in close with Metal Claw!"
In only a few seconds, Charmeleon closed the gap with his glinting claws on display. "Unleash your Metronome now!" The fire lizard could hardly believe it when the fairy dropped to the deck and flopped like a fish.
Sato edged a glance at Whitney, who looked like she got hit with a sack of bricks. "WHAT?! CLEFABLE!"
Charmeleon struck with purpose, claws slashed down the side of the Clefable, drawing blood before he began to claw at her again and again. Each slash was extremely effective at drawing out pained yelps from his victim. His body was operating at a purely mechanical level with each precision filled strike. The lizard stepped back, he watched for any signs that the fairy might get up.
"I declare that Clefable is unable to battle!" The referee shouted, while Sato processed the last few moments.
Just one more? JUST ONE MORE! He'd only ever gotten this far one of his past nine times.
Whitney looked nonplussed as she returned her Pokemon. "Unlucky Splash… Of course it'd be the worst water type move..." She unclipped the final Pokeball, giving a sidelong glance at Sato.
He felt that familiar nervousness returning, but he shoved it down just as quickly. No time to worry about this! He thought, fumbling with his Pokeball before pointing it to his Charmeleon.
"Return!" He then pulled out Scyther's Pokeball, sending him out much to the bug type's surprise.
Sato saw Whitney giving him a confused look. "Going back to him? Seems a bit impromptu, but I won't complain!" She then sent out her Pokemon, Miltank.
"Mil! Mil- Tank!" The bovine Pokemon just stared across the battlefield, looking rather amused.
Sato wasn't underestimating this one. He would try to get in some quick hits with Scyther and then his plan would come together. If he could just properly whittle away at Miltank, this would be over. Then he'd get that badge with no issue!
"Scyther! Use a Quick Attack!"
The bug type lifted into the air, a flash of light firing off from his back as he practically disappeared into a blur of motion. Milliseconds later, he smashed straight into Miltank's skull with a loud cracking sound. The force of the blow sent him sprawling backwards, but the cow merely shook it off like a mild sting.
"Great job! Our turn! Use Rollout!" Whitney commanded as Miltank began to spin, ever increasing her spinning until she began to kick up dust.
Sato knew this move all too well. "Scyther, take a defensive stance!"
Just as instructed, the bug type lifted his blades up as Miltank sped toward him. The earth shook upon her impact with Scyther. His claws dug into the ground below, tearing up bits and pieces of rock while she slowed in the bug's grasp. That's when he reinforced his defenses by digging in deeper.
Sato wasted no more time. "Use Slash!" Both claws glowed as he slashed at the cow, but she decompressed her body at the same time.
"Headbutt him now!"
All at once, she crashed her skull into his abdomen. The hit planted with a deafening crunch that sent the Scyther blasting away! He flew right past Sato, who's clothes billowed in the wind as his reaction time caught up with the sheer force of impact. Followed immediately with a slam that broke the wall just below the spectator stands.
Scyther spread Braviary style in the pushed-in wall, completely fainted by this point. Sato could only barely comprehend what had just happened.
"Scy- Scyther?!"
"I declare that Scyther is unable to battle. Choose your next Pokemon, Sato!"
Sato didn't need to turn around and see it in order to feel the smirk burning into his scalp. "Seems you're down one. Let's see what you'll do next."
He nodded, although shakily returning Scyther to his ball and taking out Charmeleon's. Sato tossed it out and both combatants were met with a triumphant roar. The flaming lizard stood in all his glory, giving a glare to Miltank who just seemed happy to be here.
Sato nodded, bringing some of that confidence forward once more. "Okay! Let's do this! Flamethrower!" Chameleon obliged, sending a much more massive gout of flames than usual.
"Miltank, try to dodge it!" Whitney cried, seeing her Pokemon try, but actually fail to do so. Instead, it took the full force of the flames head on. When it died down, Miltank snapped both of her arms to the side with a strong bellow.
"MIILLL! TANK!" She looked to be completely locked in, but there was something off. Sato couldn't immediately tell what, but there was a feeling in his bones.
"Charmeleon, let's not give her any time! Get in close and use Thunder Punch!" Lightning surrounded his left claw as he rushed her, slamming it into Miltank's face with surprising impact.
It made her stumble backward, surprising Sato further as Miltank seemed to be acting differently. "Use Stomp, Miltank!" The cow sped over, leaping surprisingly high.
"Charmeleon, dodge it!" The fire lizard didn't manage to dodge it either. Her hoof collided with his stomach, sending him to the ground, but the impact looked softer than when Scyther had been hit earlier. Upon landing, Miltank seemed to flinch and looked very troubled with a very red flush on her face.
Sato was starting to see a pattern. Weaker hits? She's flushed… Wait. She's gotta be burned! That's right! Her attack is lowered and she's taking more damage! But Miltank hardly took any damage from Flamethrower… Eyes widening as another realization took hold. Thick Fat is her ability! Now he just had to make use of this information.
"Rollout! Let's get this over with!" Whitney shouted, desperate to see an end to this battle.
"Return Charmeleon!" Sato called, as the red light hit his Pokemon and he disappeared from the arena. Miltank slid to a stop, looking rather disappointed. "Mil?" She questioned as Sato grinned.
Whitney put a hand to her hip. "Are you giving up? Or are you going to use Sneasel?" She questioned, but Sato merely shook his head.
"Go Miltank!" Out popped his own pink bovine.
"Milll!" She shouted, looking around with little hearts in her eyes, but then looking quite dashed when the object of her affection wasn't there. Finally turning to her opponent, she adopted a very serious glare.
"Mil…" She trailed off, looking far more ready for battle.
Just as Sato was about to let out a command, he caught sight of Whitney's look of shock. "A Miltank? Why'd you catch one of them?" She asked, more than curious.
Sato blushed, scratching his head in embarrassment. "Well… I saw yours that one time and… I just thought it was really strong." He tapped the ground with his right shoe, letting the blush creep onto his cheeks.
"Now that's adorable and sweet!" Whitney looked like she almost wanted to hug Sato, but refrained from doing so, wanting to see how this played out.
When she seemed to regain her composure, Whitney pointed and ordered, "Rollout! Don't give them an inch!"
"You too, Miltank!" Sato watched as she nodded, curling into a ball and ripping the earth up by spinning. Whitney's Miltank was already doing the motion, but for some reason, the two hadn't budged from their spot.
Sato felt like he was having the time of his life. Instincts flaring up like never before shot through his system. Was this what it was like to be like Ash? For a moment, he could see the plateau which he needed to climb! A troublesome divide that separates him from the hero he idolized. The reason he started doing all this training in the first place.
The reason he needed to win.
An explosive crash was heard as both Miltanks collided in the center of the battlefield, bringing the battle back to the forefront of his mind. The arena cracked beneath the force of their combined strikes as both Pokemon broke apart, making them fly backwards. Landing not too far apart, the battle became a close quarters affair. One that made Sato's eyes gleam with anticipation.
This was the moment.
The words flew from his mouth before he could comprehend the thought. "Get in with a Karate Chop, now!"
His eyes met Whitney's own as she froze up, I can tell that even she realizes that this isn't a move that Miltank normally learns! I've got her! His Miltank's arm decimated Whitney's Pokemon with a clearcut strike that sent the other Miltank crashing to the ground.
She cried out in pain as the Super Effective hit planted easily enough!
"Don't let up! Another Karate Chop!" Sato's Miltank shot forward with a bone shattering bash to the other Pokemon's skull.
"One mo-"
"Enough!"
He was interrupted by Whitney who had returned her Pokemon before he could give the last command. Sato's eyes widened, feeling his heart pounding as the rush of the moment started to wane. His breathing was erratic even after her statement sunk in.
"Mil?"
His Pokemon had approached him with a concerned look upon her face. Miltank had both her hooves out to the side as if wanting to console her trainer with a hug. Sato suddenly felt an urge to smile as he walked into the open embrace, surrendering himself to the now elated motherly cow.
"I declare that Sato and Miltank have won this battle!"
Sato looked up upon hearing this declaration. However, Whitney had already closed the gap, throwing her own arms around the both of them. Being pressed up against the gym leader made him nearly have a fit. His face became beet red. "Good battle! You two did wonderfully!" Sato shook his head as she backed off. "But we didn't win. You returned Miltank before I could finish the battle…" Now that his mind had caught up with the adrenaline, he felt disappointment pooling up.
There wasn't time to process it as Miltank tightened her hug and the Plain Badge was produced before him, held in Whitney's hand. "You've earned it. Now get up." "W- What?" "Get up!"
Sato's eyes fluttered open, his vision sharpening on the underside of a bunk bed. The soft glow of sunlight streamed through the window, cutting sharp lines across the sterile white sheets. The faint scent of antiseptic clung to the air, mixing with something more familiar—Pokémon food.
He took a slow breath, his mind piecing together the fragments of what had happened. The Pokémon Center…
A dull ache pulsed through his muscles, a reminder of the fight that had landed him here. He turned his head, and the first thing he saw was Scyther.
The Bug-type sat at his bedside, wings twitching, his sharp gaze softened with something close to concern.
"Scytha! Scy!"
Sato exhaled, forcing a small smile. "So, you helped me all the way here?" His voice was steady, but something inside him itched—an unease he couldn't quite place. His fingers curled against the sheets. "Where's Jenny?"
Scyther's gaze flicked toward the door. He hesitated.
That wasn't a good sign.
Sato pushed himself up, expecting resistance from his body—but the stiffness vanished faster than it should have. His energy levels felt off . Not unnatural, but too sharp, too ready . He flexed his fingers, testing his grip.
His gaze shifted to the other bed. His spare clothes were folded neatly, his belt and Pokéballs placed beside them. It felt… deliberate. Like someone had set them there expecting him to stay put.
That wasn't happening.
"We shouldn't be here…" he muttered, eyes narrowing.
Scyther tilted his head, scythes tapping lightly against his chin. "Scy?"
Sato swung his legs over the bed and stood. His balance was too perfect . He felt light, fast, ready , as if his body had already adjusted to whatever had happened before he blacked out.
A sudden impulse struck him, and he jumped.
His feet landed soundlessly. Too easily.
His frown deepened. Something's different…
His fists clenched. Whatever it was, he didn't have time to figure it out.
"Right," he said, voice firm. "We've gotta go now."
It didn't matter how many times he had failed before. Didn't matter how many times he'd been knocked down. So long as he still had the chance to make things right, he'd take it.
"You've got my back, just like the others, Scyther?"
Scyther's hesitation vanished. He gave a sharp nod. "Scy!"
Sato's eyes flicked to the door. Walking out like nothing happened would only invite trouble. If Jenny or the nurses caught him, they'd demand an explanation.
His gaze shifted.
The balcony.
A warm breeze drifted through the slightly open door, stirring the sheer curtains. Sunlight glinted off the polished railing, scattering flashes of light across the floor.
Sato exhaled. "We're not taking the front door."
Scyther's wings buzzed in agreement.
Without hesitation, Sato moved. He pushed the balcony door open and stepped into the golden daylight. The world stretched before him—wide open. Waiting.
And he wasn't wasting another second.
"Let's move."
The scene was drenched in tragedy.
Ash's breath hitched as he took in the sight before him—Lorenzo's lifeless body, blood pooling beneath him, and Bianca… Bianca clinging to him, as if her hold alone could keep him tethered to life.
No… No, no, no…
His hands clenched into fists at his sides. The metallic scent of blood mixed with the salt of tears, thick and suffocating. The dim museum lights cast long shadows, stretching across the wreckage of what had just happened.
Bianca's sobs cut through the silence, raw and broken, another stab straight to his chest.
This wasn't just some distant injustice.
This was close. Too close.
I don't know where this bastard is… but I've gotta do something!
His head snapped to the side. Latios was still tending to Latias, his glow flickering weakly. Damn it… He's barely holding on.
Ash swallowed down the burning anger rising in his chest. He needed control. Needed to focus.
"Latios," he said, forcing steel into his voice, "Can you get us out of here without being seen?"
The Eon Pokémon nodded, his psychic energy shimmering around them.
Grab the Soul Dew while I get ready.
Ash didn't hesitate. He rushed to the glowing sphere, its light pulsing softly in his hands. It was warm—so unlike the icy grip of fear twisting in his gut. At least this time, it hadn't been destroyed. At least this time, Alto Mare wouldn't be swallowed by a tsunami.
Okay. I'm ready.
A heartbeat later, the museum was gone.
They landed in the Secret Garden, feet pressing into the earth. The moment the teleportation ended, Ash staggered forward, dizziness washing over him. He barely caught himself, shaking off the disorientation.
Then, a voice echoed in his mind.
Ash, do it quickly.
"Right!"
Moving on instinct, he rushed to the fountain, placing the Soul Dew back onto its pedestal. As soon as it touched the stone, the waters flowed again—calm and steady.
Unlike him.
The weight on his chest lifted… but only slightly.
Because the rest of it—the fear, the guilt—remained.
Fear that the killer was still out there. That he had failed when it mattered most.
And worst of all…
Bianca.
Ash turned toward her, his stomach twisting. She hadn't moved.
Her eyes, still brimming with tears, had hardened. That warmth she always had—the kindness, the light—was gone.
Something raw had taken its place.
Something dangerous.
"Bianca?" he called, careful.
She shook her head. When she finally spoke, her voice was hollow. "Ash, I'm going to help you find that monster."
His heart clenched. "Bianca, you don't have to—"
She ignored him. Stepping past him, she locked eyes with Latios. "You can still keep going, right?"
Ash saw it then. The way she stood, fists trembling at her sides. The way her breath came short and sharp. The gleam in her eyes wasn't just grief.
Is this… what I look like?
Is this what I become when I let revenge take over?
He reached out, placing a hand on her shoulder. "But aren't yo—"
She wrenched away.
Her head snapped toward him, eyes blazing.
Not just grief.
Not just anger.
Hatred.
A rage so pure and sharp it made his breath catch.
"No!" she snapped. "I'm not going to just let it go! My grandpa is—" Her voice cracked, but she kept going, forcing herself forward. "He's been there for me from the beginning, and I am NOT going to let the man who shot him get away!"
Ash flinched.
Damn it…
He had to tread carefully.
"It's important not to rush into things like this," he said, keeping his voice steady. He took a slow step closer, hands raised. "I swear to you, he won't get off this island. But Bianca, I'm not worried about him."
His voice wavered.
"I'm worried about you."
Bianca tensed. Her gaze flickered from Lorenzo's body… to Latios… then back to him.
"I—" She sucked in a sharp breath. "I'm just so lost."
She wrapped her arms around herself, holding on—like she was trying to keep from breaking apart.
"I know you said he won't get away," she whispered. "But I need to know for sure."
Ash didn't think.
He just moved.
Pulling her into a hug.
For a second, she stiffened.
Then, she collapsed.
Shudders wracked her body as sobs tore free, muffled against his chest.
Ash held her tight, his hand moving in slow, steady circles against her back.
"I know," he whispered. "I know you need to see it for yourself… Trust me."
Her tears soaked into his jacket. He didn't care.
Bianca's fists clenched against his chest. "I just… I don't know how to—"
"You don't have to."
Her grip tightened.
Seconds passed. Maybe minutes.
Finally, she pulled back slightly, wiping her eyes with a shaking hand.
Ash exhaled. "I know I can't stop you from coming." His voice was quiet. "Just… promise me you won't do anything rash."
Bianca hesitated.
Her lips parted slightly. Then, she stopped herself.
Ash could see it—the war raging inside her.
Finally, she exhaled. "…I can only promise you that I won't get into trouble."
Her voice wavered, caught between fury and grief.
It wasn't the answer he wanted.
But it was the only one she could give.
And for now…
It would have to be enough.
The cavernous base lay hidden deep within the heart of a vast cave system, a remnant of an ancient seabed now swallowed by time. Stalactites hung like jagged teeth from the ceiling, glistening with moisture, while the walls bear fossilized imprints of long-extinct marine life—silent echoes of a forgotten world. The air was cool, laced with the damp scent of earth and salt, as if the ocean's memory still lingers within these walls.
A narrow passage, concealed by a curtain of hanging rock formations, led into a cathedral-like chamber. The space glowing with an eerie bioluminescence, fungi clinging to the cavern walls and casting rippling reflections across the shallow pools that dotted the uneven ground. Crystals of deep blue and emerald green jutted from the stone, remnants of the sea's retreat, their jagged edges glimmering like scattered gemstones.
Deeper within, the base seamlessly integrated into the cave's natural formations. Reinforced stone archways creating winding paths between its sections, tunnels snaking into the darker recesses. Some chambers retained their underwater origins, their floors still encrusted with barnacle-like growths, while others had long since been smoothed and repurposed into living quarters, makeshift furniture crafted from driftwood and scavenged stone.
At the heart of the base lay an underground lake, its glassy surface mirroring the ceiling above. Strange, luminescent fish drift just beneath the water, their pale bodies leaving ghostly trails. The lake served as both a vital resource and a haunting relic of the ocean that once ruled this space.
It is here that Katchen rushes, his boots splashing through the damp terrain. This sanctuary, once a fortress of strength, is now a fractured remnant of the Hunter Division, once led by the infamous—and now deceased—Hunter J. A meeting had been called a week prior, a desperate attempt to decide the future of this fading faction. Three leaders had been chosen to find a path forward, yet now, as Katchen stormed through the underground corridors, he knew the talks were crumbling. And for him, that was the worst possible outcome.
Katchen snapped back to the present, breath ragged as he tore through the narrow tunnels of the Altomare sewer system. Water sloshed around his boots, the air thick with the stench of decay. Every echoing footstep reminded him that Tobias was closing in. The past was gone—what mattered now was survival.
The ancient stone passageways twisted endlessly, his only light coming from the occasional grate above where the city's glow barely filtered through. His mind raced as he tried to recall the layout, searching for the quickest way out before his pursuer could corner him.
'Focus, Katchen… You can't get caught now.'
He pushed forward, forcing the memories of the past meeting from his mind. There would be time for reflection later—if he lived long enough to see it. Yet, he couldn't let it go. Every flash of sunlight tore him back to the moments of his past. As he turned and headed down another path, it wormed its way right back to the forefront of his mind.
Don't turn your back on me, Erol!
Katchen's voice cracked with fury, his trembling hands clenched into fists. He could feel everything slipping through his fingers, the last strands of control fraying before his eyes.
Erol barely spared him a glance. "Turn my back? We're done, Katchen. It's over. You need to see that."
Over? Katchen's stomach twisted. How could he say that?
"Don't call me that!" His breath hitched. "It's Hunter K! Her legacy didn't die with her—it lives on in us!"
The words came too fast. The second they left his mouth, he realized his mistake.
Erol smirked, bitter amusement flickering in his eyes. "There it is. You never had your own will, did you? Always chasing her approval, always pushing further than the rest of us. We knew when to stop. You never did."
Katchen's blood boiled. He doesn't get it. He never did. His gaze snapped to Horus, searching for a different answer.
"And you, Horus? You understand, don't you? We need to strike back, together. This isn't over unless we let it be."
Horus exhaled slowly, his gaze distant. "Have you even thought about what you're asking? This isn't some bounty, Katchen. You're talking about killing a kid."
Katchen's hands slammed against the table, rattling the rusted metal. "HE KILLED HER!"
The words tore from him, raw and unfiltered.
Horus didn't flinch. "A Legendary Pokémon did. You remember that, don't you?"
I remember everything. Katchen's head dipped, fingers threading through his hair as he tried to steady his breathing.
"I know the details," he muttered. "I saw her last moments, same as you."
Erol crossed his arms. "Then why aren't you after Team Galactic? They put her in that position to begin with."
Katchen's glare darkened. Because they don't exist anymore.
"That's impossible," he spat. "Cyrus is gone. The high-ranking members vanished. There's no trail. But Interpol—" his voice trembled with venom, "they were there. I KNOW they had a hand in this. But I can't get to them…"
Erol sighed. "So you'd rather chase some kid? That's your answer?"
Somebody has to pay. Katchen's pulse pounded in his skull. And he was always there—always interfering. J warned me about him, about how he kept slipping through her fingers.
Silence settled, thick and suffocating.
The Hunter Division had been crumbling for years. First, they lost their numbers. Then, they lost her. Without J, they were nothing. Their empire had shrunk, their hunting grounds stripped away. Reality was closing in, and there was nowhere left to run.
Horus stood first. His mind was made up. He placed a firm hand on Katchen's shoulder.
"I'm done." His voice was calm, resolute. "I told my team to go, and I'm following. I won't waste my life on a dying cause." He stepped back, giving Erol a pointed look. "Wire me the closing costs directly. I'm cutting ties. Interpol's bad enough, but Team Rocket? I want nothing to do with it."
Coward.
"Good luck, Katchen. You'll need it."
His footsteps echoed down the tunnel, leaving only two.
Just me and Erol now.
Erol didn't look surprised. "You'll get your cut too. J left enough for all of us to walk away."
Walk away? Katchen's breath sharpened. He slammed his fist against the table, voice rising. "NO! I DIDN'T COME HERE FOR HANDOUTS!"
Erol's lips twitched in something almost like amusement. "You sound disappointed. Don't be. She left you the most."
Katchen stilled. What?
Erol pulled a slip of paper from his pocket. "Ten million. The rest of us got six. A reward for your service, I suppose."
Ten million… Katchen's fingers twitched. That was more than enough to disappear forever. To start again. To leave this all behind.
He straightened. "I see."
Erol exhaled. "Good. Then we're done here." He turned, ready to leave this all behind.
Katchen said nothing, but in his heart, he knew—this wasn't over.
'I've got to finish it! I've gotta at least kill him!' As he passed through another shaft of sunlight, his breath hitched. A strange pressure weighed on his chest, tightening around his heart like a vice.
Then, he saw it.
A silhouette stood in the sunlight—a small, frail figure staring directly at him. Hunter K's pulse spiked, his fingers twitching as he fought the urge to reach for his weapon. Something about the figure made his stomach twist violently.
"W-Wait! What is…?" His voice wavered, betraying the fear he refused to acknowledge.
The child's empty, pitch-black eyes met his own, narrowed in a soulless glare.
"Where's Mom?" He asked.
A sharp breath escaped him. The words struck him harder than any blade ever could. He could see his breath now, curling in the frigid air. A tremor ran through his body, not just from the cold water but from something deeper, something clawing at the edges of his mind.
The child—he knew that face. Knew those eyes. Knew the voice.
No.
It wasn't possible. It wasn't him.
And yet, as he stared at the phantom before him, memories surged against his will. That same boy had once stood in the wreckage of a burning home, soot and ash clinging to his skin. That same boy had once screamed for a mother who would never return. And that same boy had once been consumed by grief before cruel hands forced him into servitude.
Now, after years of bloodshed, of hunting, of killing… he had become one of them. The same people who stole everything from him.
No.
No, he hadn't. He wasn't like them. He had no choice!
His breathing came faster, more erratic, and his legs twitched with the urge to run.
"Y-You're not real! This isn't…!"
With a burst of desperation, Hunter K lunged forward, charging straight through the apparition. The cold sliced through him like a blade of ice, stealing the breath from his lungs. He gasped, but he did not stop. He could not stop.
Because if he did—if he let himself believe, even for a moment, that the boy was real, that the reflection of his past self was right—then he would have to acknowledge the truth.
That tonight, someone else had lost their grandfather. And he was the reason why.
I must get out of here. Whatever it takes!
Darkrai stirred, a faint tremor running through her form as her aquamarine eyes fluttered open. The darkness of the alley wrapped around her like an old, familiar cloak, but even its comfort did little to still the unease coiling within her. Before her, Zephyr hovered effortlessly, his wings barely shifting as he maintained his position midair, ever at ease.
The Latios smirked. "What?" His tone was light, teasing. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
Darkrai exhaled slowly, pushing down the frustration threatening to rise. "I've located the Hunter, but he is slipping further from reach with every passing moment. Worse still, his mind is unraveling—rapidly." She met Zephyr's eyes, her gaze hardening. "If he crosses paths with anyone in this state, there's no telling what he might do. Relay this to Tobias at once."
Zephyr gave a mock salute, the smirk widening before he reached out mentally. Within moments, Tobias received the message.
Darkrai observed as Tobias pressed a palm to his forehead, his frustration evident. "This isn't going to end well, is it?" His voice was heavy with resignation. "I'm open to suggestions on how to deal with this threat to public safety."
The cobblestone beneath his foot groaned as he tapped it—a small, meaningless sound, yet one that betrayed his impatience.
Zephyr, for once, shed his usual bravado. "It's not going to be simple, no matter how we approach it. There are plenty of exits from these sewers all over the island…" His words trailed off as he glanced at Darkrai and Tobias, both nodding in grim understanding.
Then Tobias' gaze dropped to the unmoving figure in the shadows, his grip tightening. "If only we were a moment sooner. Hunter K covered his tracks well enough… And we found her."
Darkrai turned her attention to the small form of a Latias lying within the darkness. A silent sigh left her as she drifted forward, shadows curling around the unconscious dragon. "Such a shame. This one looks like she's been through a lot." She allowed her darkness to brush against Latias' form, searching—probing—but the psychic dragon did not stir. Not even a flicker of distress. This was no ordinary sleep.
Had she been placed in a nightmare? No. Darkrai would have sensed her own influence. Whatever bound the Latias in this state was something within.
Zephyr's usual arrogance returned, though his anger was unmistakable. "Regardless, Hunter K shall pay for committing such a crime!" He clenched his claws, eyes burning bright red with emotion.
Darkrai arched her brow. "Showing bravado with so much flair. Theatrics might get you in trouble one of these nights."
Zephyr met her gaze, undeterred. "For a woman, I would go to any lengths for their safety and comfort."
Darkrai shook her head. "More like discomfort," she murmured dryly before allowing the levity to fade. "Regardless, we don't have time for this." Her gaze flicked back to Tobias.
The man stood still, lost in thought. She could sense his frustration, the bitter sting of being one step too late. He had been close—so close—but close was not enough. Not in this chase.
One moment. That was all it took to tip the balance. And now, Hunter K remained ahead, the game still in his favor.
Zephyr's voice cut through the silence. I could go to the docks and keep an eye out there.
Tobias nodded, seizing on the idea. "Good. I should inform the police. They can cover any potential blind spots. If this works, we can corner him until there's nowhere left to run."
Darkrai approved. "Zephyr, I'll take the back alleys. We'll cover more ground that way." Without waiting for a reply, she melted into the shadows, becoming one with the darkness.
Zephyr relayed the information to Tobias before vanishing as well. I'll be heading off too. Good luck.
And just like that, Tobias was alone.
Darkrai did not look back. The hunt was on, and time was slipping through their fingers like sand.
Brock had woken up next to the best woman in the world—a perfect start to the day. But now? Now, it felt like the ground had disappeared beneath his feet.
The tournament organizers were in full panic mode, their voices overlapping in a desperate plea for answers. Officials scrambled across the arena floor, some frantically checking their PokéGear, others gesturing wildly in heated arguments. The announcer, clearly stalling for time, tried to hype up the restless audience, but it was like throwing a bucket of water at a wildfire.
The crowd was getting louder, an impatient roar rolling through the stands. They weren't here for excuses—they wanted action.
Ash Ketchum versus Tobias.
The match that had the world holding its breath. A long-awaited showdown between two trainers who had carved their names into legend. Ash, the unstoppable challenger who had finally conquered the Sinnoh League, and Tobias, the enigma who had swept through opponents with seemingly untouchable power. It had been the perfect idea to bring them both back, to settle the score on the biggest stage possible.
Except that neither of them had shown up.
Brock ran a hand down his face, exhaling sharply. This was bad. Really bad.
He and Lucy stood at the center of it all, trapped under the weight of hundreds of demanding eyes.
A trainer shoved forward, his face red with frustration. "Where's Ash? He wouldn't miss this!"
"Is this some kinda stunt?" another yelled.
"We paid for this battle! What's going on?" a woman snapped, her arms flailing.
Brock's jaw tightened. He wanted to say something—anything—to settle them down, but what could he say? He didn't know where Ash was. He didn't even know if this was just a mix-up or something worse.
Beside him, Lucy stood firm, her expression unreadable. But Brock knew her well enough to sense the tension in her stance. This was bad for more than just the tournament—it was dangerous. If Ash and Tobias were missing, there was a reason.
And it wasn't a good one.
Before the crowd could press in any further, Lucy grabbed Brock by the arm, pulling him aside. They slipped into an open room just off the main hall, and the moment the door shut behind them, she turned to him. "Brock, do you have any clue where Ash might be?"
He hesitated. He had a few guesses, but nothing solid. What worried him more was the report he'd overheard that morning—Officer Jennys moving throughout the city in a coordinated effort. He'd barely caught the details while Lucy had been in the shower, but it had sounded serious.
Still, that didn't mean Ash was involved.
…Right?
Brock exhaled. "Not sure." His voice was low, firm. "We'll just have to improvise for now."
He brushed past Lucy, squaring his shoulders as he prepared to face the crowd again. Whatever was going on, they needed answers—and fast.
~End of Chapter~
Legacy of Time: Sheesh, this took way too long. Hope you all haven't given up on me. We'll get this done eventually.