The Contender's Ascent

by Insane Dominator

Third installment to "The Fairy Contender". Months passed since Nic and Erza finally united, but now things get really interesting. New challenges face Nic as Pokemon begin to rise, more complex foes challenge him and his powers, and something darker than darkness itself seeks Nic. With friends new and old joining forces, Nic and two worlds unite in ways unimaginable. OCxErza

89. A Mega Homecoming

It was a bright, sunny day within the Kalos region. More accurately speaking, Lumiose City. The late-morning air was warm and lively, as were the denizens that occupied its streets. Everywhere, people and Pokémon were going about their usual day-to-day life together in this vast civilization.

Yet despite the expanse comparable to Fiore's Crocus, this place was a maze. Only those local could navigate through the narrow alleys that wedged between the tall buildings.

In one such alleys, it was mostly dark due to the roofing atop blocking out much of the spotlight. A portal appeared, with Junior hopping through, followed by Nic. He turned back and reached his hand out, bringing Erza next, then Vanessa.

"It's been a while since we've been here." Vanessa commented. She recognized the architecture of the surrounding buildings, bringing a smile to her face.

"Yes, certainly has been some time." Nic noted.

"It's been so busy back on Earthland that it almost feels foreign to me again." Erza chimed.

Nic turned back towards his wife, smiling. "Well, Lumiose City can be a drag if you're not a city-lover. Speaking of which…" He looked past her towards the portal. "It's clear. You guys can come through now."

Stepping out of the portal was Joey and Dereece. As soon as their feet touched the stone ground, they looked around to find the buildings surrounding them.

"Is this really Lumiose City?" Dereece asked, his awe mixed with confusion.

"Nic's portals are always fixed on wherever he thinks. Rest assured, you guys are home." Erza confirmed confidently.

"Wow…feels so surreal to be back here." Joey marveled at his surroundings, then turned to find the portal closing. "Say, why not portal us in the streets? Be easier to tell where we are."

"I'd rather not become a public attraction." Nic deadpanned. "That being said, Erza, Vanessa, and I aren't sticking around. We're actually dropping you two off here before we go visit some folks." He explained. "I also need to run errands to prepare for the games. I just figured you'd guys would wanna spend the day home since you were pulled to Earthland without much closure."

"Y-you mean it?" Dereece looked touched by Nic's consideration.

Vanessa smiled. "Why not? You boys deserve it after all the hard work you've put in."

"Speaking of which…" Erza noticed something missing and spoke up. "Where's Duncan? Did he not want to come along?"

Joey shook his head. "We tried inviting him, but he said he wanted to spend today training if we're not going out on jobs."

"I see. That's a shame." She turned towards Nic. "Perhaps we should bring the whole guild along next time."

"We're here for mostly business this time, but we'll see." Nic promised, before turning towards Joey and Dereece. "We'll be back to pick you up around sunset. Meet up at Professor Sycamore's lab, okay?"

"Got it." Dereece nodded.

"Roger that, Nic-senpai." Joey cooly snapped and pointed at him.

With their understanding, Nic looked at Erza, Vanessa, and Junior to see they were ready. Once all set, Nic turned into his Mind Form and used Teleport and vanished before their eyes.

Once alone, Joey turned towards Dereece. "Say Dreesy, what do say we hit up that Juice Shop? Been a while since we've been there."

"Sure thing, but uh…" Dereece trailed off, looking uneasy for a moment.

"Hm? What's wrong?"

"As much as I dread it…" he let out a depressed sigh. "Think we should let the folks know we're alright."

Joey frowned, understanding where his best friend was coming from. "Hmm, yeah I see your point." He put his hands to his hips. "We should probably check in with the professor as well. We ended up leaving on his watch after all. Wouldn't blame him if he lost sleep because of that." He thought of a plan. "How about this, we'll go check in on our folks, then we'll meet up at Professor Sycamore's lab after. Sound good?"

"Can't argue with that, Jo-Jo." Dereece smirked. He and Joey reached for the other's hand and slapped with the back of their own, fist bumped, and snapped, finishing with pistol finger shots at each other with gun noises.

"Let's see if there's a taxi or a Gogoat Express around. Got any PokéDollars on ya?" Dereece asked.

"My mom gave us some to start with. Should be enough to get us to our street."

The two left for the main streets, ushering themselves away to get a head start on their own business. Once they were gone, the alleyway was abandoned…until something shifted in a corner. A cloak that blended with the surrounding buildings removed to reveal Shiin. The Pergrande Kingdom observer waited until he couldn't sense The Freaks anymore and peeked out of the alley to see the bustling Lumiose City life blooming before his eyes.

'So this is the world in which Nic Pularis and those Trainers come from.' He marveled at everything around him. Everything was nothing like how he thought it'd be. Surrounding building infrastructure was so advanced. He watched as cars drove by, which he was quick to take a picture of. 'From my understanding, this world doesn't rely on magic, so how is that car operating?' His curiosity was peaking at this point. He knew he had to get more intel. 'I'll need to blend in if I'm to get around more efficiently.'

"Requip!"

A brief glow enveloped him. Off was his Captain's robe and on was a simple silver shirt accompanied by brown cargo pants held up by a black belt with a golden buckle. On his feet were black loafers that made a better appearance than boots. Around his neck was his lacrima camera.

'Alright, this should be efficient. Now…' Shiin exited out of the alley and into the busy streets. Everywhere around him were humans and Pokémon, more so than what he's seen in Magnolia. Skiddo merrily pranced along the sidewalk, brushing past an old lady wearing some expensive brand clothing while walking her equally stylish Furfrou. He noticed something across the massive avenue that looked like a studio with bright lights lighting up the frames on the outside.

A world with such an advanced civilization, with technology and Pokémon that he must document for his mission.

'I have until sundown. Until then…' He held his camera tight. 'I'll get everything I need from what this 'Lumiose City' has. Now, which direction did those two go?'

He looked around in search of Joey and Dereece, but all he saw were numerous people and faces he didn't recognize. The streets were so broad with so many shops that it'd take forever to guess where they swept themselves off to.

'…perhaps I should find a directory first.'

---

"Thank you." Joey waved off the taxi that drove off. Once it was on the busy road again, he turned towards Dereece. "Wow, can you believe that Dereece? He even cut down the price cuz he said I looked so fashionable." He smiled as he looked down at his coat. "And they say good looks will only get you so far. Hmph!"

"Well, I'm gonna go to my place. Catch ya later." Dereece waved at Joey as he walked northward along the sidewalk towards his place.

Joey waved him off and turned towards the place in front of him. It was a store with a glossy black exterior with a variety of lavish clothes on display. Above the flashy exterior was the title "Boutique Couture" in golden cursive.

It was almost nostalgic thinking how long it's been since he's been here. What felt like years turned out to be 6 months. He wondered how everyone was doing, especially his mother. Choosing not to dawdle, he walked through the open doorway and ventured inside. Immediately, the incense of a mixture of leather and fresh polyester invaded his nostrils. He looked around in awe at not just the fancy feminine designs that he recognized, but new ones.

"Ah, it's good to be home~!" Joey swooned.

A young, blue-haired clerk walked up towards the new customer. "Welcome to the Boutique Couture. Is there anything…hang on." The girl trailed off from her script, blinking as she seemingly recognized the guy. "Wait, Joey is that you?"

Joey's eyes brightened with delight at the familiar face. "Aha! Catherine!" He nearly jumped with delight with an energetic Spoink. His former model acquaintance remained flat-faced and unmoved, just like how he remembered her. "It's been so long, girl! What have you been up to these days?"

"Well, my mom wanted me to further my modeling career, so figured I'd get some experience after we graduated." Again, little emotion in her voice. She then scanned Joey up and down. "Hm…looks like you've been up to something on your end as well."

"What? This?" Joey tugged on his coat and sassily smirked. "Just a little something I picked up."

"I see…there anything you'd like to buy?"

"I'd love to, but I'm actually here to see my mom. She around?"

"Hang on." Catherine walked over towards the counter, where she spoke to another clerk that was older. After an explanation, Joey watched the clerk nod and head to the back while Catherine returned to his. "Judith will be here in a moment. Been busy all morning with a new design."

"Yup, sounds like mom." Joey put his hands to his sides and nodded in content.

A few minutes later, the sound of high heels tapped feverishly across the tiled floor. "What's this about? I'm awfully busy, so let's make this quick."

Entering the sales floor was a woman that screamed high-end fashion. She was a rather tall woman in her 40's with light, supple skin due to the moisturizer she wore. Her medium-length blonde hair was fashioned as wavy with braids running from her front to the back of her end, tying it all together. She wore light pink lipstick with a black and white-patterned dress that did little to hide her figure. The white top had a frilly, wavy collar. Her nails were styled with black and white patterns in rainbow arches. One earring what a white marble, while the other was black.

Joey's eyes lit up in delight a second time as he hurried towards the woman. "Mommy!" He laughed as he gave the fashionable woman a hug, almost toppling her over. "So good to see you!"

"My goodness!" Judith took a step back and gathered her bearings. "Wha…Joey?"

"That's me." Joey smirked.

"Why, where in heavens have you been? I haven't heard from you in months after you and Dereece left for your little…journey, or something."

"Oh, sorry about that. I was actually in another world. You know? Have you heard about that?"

Judith hummed as she looked nonchalant. "Yes, I do believe I heard something about that. So sorry dear, you know mommy is very busy. She doesn't have time for otherworldly affairs." She started walking back towards the counter, with Joey in tow.

"Believe it or not, I'm having the time of my life. I made friends, I have an archnemesis, I learned magic, fell in love, and I became a king of an entire nation."

Catherine, who was close by, overheard Joey's tale and looked gobsmacked. "…eh?"

"Ah, well that's very nice sweetie. You can tell me all about it later." She didn't show any signs of care as she was reaching for something. "Good timing since you're here. I need someone to try on my latest design."

She held up the dress, which was a shirt and pants combo. The shirt was primarily silver with thin but long sleeves over a black leather vest with gold zippers to open and close pockets. The black pants, even to Joey's surprise, looked incredibly tight with white polka-dots scattered along the legs.

"Ohhh…"

"Joey, can you be a dear and try this on while you're here? Oh yes, I also have some more in the back that I need you to try on for me, too. We can catch up while you're changing in between. Come, come." The mother handed her son the feminine attire before turning towards the back of the counter.

Joey looked at the clothing in his hands, memories of the many years of feminine clothes he's gotten used to wearing. He rolled his eyes and grinned. "Yup…home sweet home." He mumbled as he followed his mother.

…

Further down the avenue, Dereece looked up at one of the entrances to the apartment complex. His gaze scaled the walls towards the third level, knowing what was going to be there. And if he was honest, he was not looking forward to it.

With a heavy sigh, he started for the entrance and made a steady climb up the stairwell. Normally it'd be no problem if he used his magic, but he'd rather not scare the residence with his otherworldly abilities. He made it to the third floor and made his way down the hall until he arrived at a certain door.

Steeling himself, he reached his arm out and knocked with his knuckles.

"Who is it?!" A not-so pleasant voice shouted from inside.

"It's me."

"I can't see through walls! Me who?!"

"Dereece? Your brother? Ring any bells?!" he shouted back.

He folded his arms and tapped his foot against the ground as he waited for a response. After about thirty seconds, the door opened. To his surprise, a little girl with dark skin with brown curly hair opened it for him. The girl had a light purple dress and white sneakers with large brown eyes that got a full view of the man before her.

"Hi, Uncle Dereece!" The girl chimed.

For a moment, Dereece hesitated. Hearing someone call him that reminded him of Ella. He forced a small smile. "Hey, Katrina. Wow, look how big you've grown. You can answer the door now?"

Katrina nodded. "Yup. Mommy's busy right now. Come in!"

Dereece accepted the invitation and walked in. Almost immediately, the smell of burnt food and diapers filled his nostrils as he walked into the apartment. The striped wallpaper was as gaudy as he remembered, and toys were peppered across the carpet. There were a few more stains than he remembered.

He made way over towards the living room, where there were there was a collage of children's books, plastic toys, and Pokémon plushies strewn across the ground. Sitting on the ground in the midst of this was a younger boy in a diaper, no older than 1. His attention was on the television that showed a Pokémon program with cutely animated Pokémon.

"Look, Marcus. It's Uncle Dereece!" Katrina hurried over to her brother and made him wave at him. "Say hi, Uncle Dereece~!"

"Ahhh~!" Marcus cooed as he gazed at Dereece.

Dereece chuckled. "The little guy's growing. Is he walking?"

"A little, but he's been babbling a lot." Katrina noted. True to her word, the infant was babbling something while clapping his hands mimicking the program. "I haven't seen you for a long time, Uncle Dereece. What happened?"

"Well, it's kinda a long story-"

"Katrina!" A grumpy female voice came from the kitchen. "What did I tell you about answering the door!?"

Entering the living room was someone who Dereece recognized all too well. The slightly overweight woman looked to be in her early 20's with skin as dark as his. Her hair was covered by a gray hairnet, with a similar t-shirt on. She wore white lounge pants that did little to hide her plump thighs.

In her hand was a ladle, which spilled what looked like tomato paste onto the carpet. "And what did I tell you about watching your brother? You know he can't sit still without…" She trailed off as she recognized the visitor.

Dereece half-heartedly waved to her. "Hey, Melene."

His sister, Melene, folded her arms, giving her younger brother a quizzical glare. "Well…look who decided to finally show up. Took a break prancing around with your pal?"

"I'm just visiting for the day. Figured I'd see how you guys are doing." He watched Katrina try to roll a ball towards her baby brother, to which he seemed delighted and pushed it back. "How's Mom?"

"As well as you'd guess. Still living in Coumarine City."

Dereece grunted, taking a seat on the couch to rest his feet. He took another look around the apartment to find how shabby it was. "Remind me again why you moved back here?"

"The rent is cheaper here. I could ask you what you've been up to. Heard you finally graduated high school and became a Trainer. How's that been?"

Dereece rolled his eyes. "Trust me, you wouldn't believe me if I told you."

The two watched Katrina as she was on the floor with some crayons, trying to color in a Gogoat in a coloring book. Despite how she messed up the eyes by making them yellow and making the horns as green as the pelt, she at least managed to keep it all within the lines. Good enough for a 5-year-old.

"Must be hard to raise two on your own."

Melene shook her head. "Mm-mm, boy you don't know the half of it. Working part-time doesn't pay that well, and can't leave these two alone for two minutes without them making a mess…hey, Katrina! No drawing on the shelves! That ain't gonna wash out!"

"Uh, s-sorry!" Katrina jerked away from the shelf she attempted to draw on.

Melene sighed. "See what I mean? You should've gone further in that theater club and become a full-time actor."

Dereece chuckled bitterly, bittersweet memories of his unrequited love for Emily resurfacing. "Yeah, it…didn't really work out."

Melene scoffed. "When life actually decides to work itself out, will be the day I win the lottery."

Dereece despondently looked forward, knowing where his family's situation was going to be for a good while. "Yeah…good luck with that."

---

In the serene vicinity that was Vaniville Town, the Pularis family had teleported their way back to their foster family's house. The family, despite the sudden visit, welcomed them with open arms. Johanna and Michael were more than happy to see the three again, especially since it's been since the wedding almost a full year ago.

Johanna walked from the kitchen to the living room, setting a slice of Oran Berry pie in front of Erza. "Thanks, I appreciate the hospitality." She warmly smiled.

Johanna reciprocated the smile. "Don't mention it. You're always welcome. That being said…" She turned towards Nic and Vanessa. "It sounds like there's a lot happening in that other world right now from what you said. Must be stressful managing to keep all those mages and Pokémon in check."

Nic closed his eyes. "Well…there were some hiccups. But we're taking our steps." He used his fork and bit into his Oran Berry pie slice.

"How's everything been here?" Vanessa asked.

Johanna looked towards the ceiling in thought. "Well, The Crossing that happened brought up quite the panic. But it seems it's calmed down for the most part. In fact, there's been talks about people showing an interest in that world."

Nic stopped mid-chew, the news surprising him.

"Really?" Erza asked.

"Yeah, she's not exaggerating" Michael walked in with a fresh pitcher of lemon tea. He poured a glass for his wife, then Erza, Vanessa, and finally Nic, all saying their thanks.

"It's a shame we came when Tan was still at school." Vanessa frowned.

"Yes, but he should be back after 4." Johanna turned towards Nic. "You said you have to run errands right? Are they for these games we've heard about?"

Nic nodded. "Yeah. I need to head out soon and make those preparations. But I can make time in between to pop back here for dinner."

Michael grinned, folding his arms. "We'd like that. Been a while since we've had the whole gang around. Let's get a smorgasbord ready."

"Oh, no. We couldn't possibly trouble you like that." Erza bashfully dismissed.

"Please dear, it's the least we owe you. You've all been working so hard in that world.

Nic smiled at their generosity. "Thank you both. So about what you said earlier, what about Earthland is everyone interested in exactly?"

Johanna chuckled. "You know, the possibilities of learning actual sorcery. A bit dangerous for my liking. You should've heard Tan. He keeps saying he'd like to learn magic someday."

"You don't say." Erza found the idea amusing. It'd be nice to think another family member joining Fairy Tail and gaining magic of his own. If she were lucky, he might get Requip Magic. Her mind fluttered at the thought of training another Requip Mage.

Michael huffed. "That boy's not even 7. And he says he has dreams of becoming the 'Ultimate Sorcerer Trainer' like his brother and sisters."

The trio couldn't help but smile in amusement.

"Before you head out, Nic, please try to be more careful. That goes for you ladies as well." Johanna pleaded.

Nic nodded in appreciation. "We will."

Michael took a small sip of his tea before bringing his cup out. "Well then, cheers to us being together like this! And hopes for the success of these games!"

The small family brought their cups together for a toast.

All was well for the short time they had…even Junior and Weedle were content in their food comas halfway through their huge pie slice.

---

Shin was not having a good day. That was the mildest way that he would put it right now. It was bad enough that the immense city made it almost impossible to lock in one Joey or Dereece's magic signatures, but the accommodations were unlike anything he's used to. Suppose he should rephrase his experience as frustrating.

Though he managed to find directions via signposts, it did little to help him get around. Not to mention there were far too many inconveniences.

He learned the hard way that Earthland currency has no value on PokéEarth.

"Eh? What's this? You trying to pull a fast one on me? Sorry pal, gotta be the right currency." A taxi driver dismissed Shiin and drove off, leaving him with a handful of Jewels.

He learned that people can be quite devious.

"Say, pal. That's a neat camera you got there." A rough-looking thug along with two other cronies beside him stood against Shin in the midst of an alley. "Mind if we 'borrow' that for a while?"

The intentions were clear, and all it took was a Dream Knock to put them to sleep, allowing Shiin to freely pass them.

And he learned how bitter their tastes were.

He stood in front of an herbal store, with a clerk offering samples to everyone. Of course, Shiin had the misfortune of trying a sample of an Energy Root. But no one told him they were meant for Pokémon unless processed.

But worst of all…the gaudy art.

With admission being free, Shiin found himself in the Lumiose Museum. He looked at all the paintings and pictures taken such as Sinnoh's Battle Frontier, Unova Region's Castelia City, Glittering Cave, and Anistar Sundial.

However, what caught his attention the most was the central picture in the second floor: The King, the Pokémon, and the Key.

Too bad he couldn't purchase the audio to know what this all meant.

The otherworldly spy found himself sitting on a bench in a large, round plaza with a massive pillar in the center. The Rouge Plaza if he recalled. He needed a breather after walking around for who knows how long. Despite how much data this was going to give him, it was taxing towards him.

As he was looking through his camera, he was making note of all the Pokmon he's seen, as well as the various locations he's been to. 'That should cover all the local tourist spots. Still, who would put a gym in the middle of a tower?' His attention adverted towards Prism Tower, the tallest and the center structure that embodied Lumiose City. 'I see now. These otherworlders rely more on electricity and artificial power rather than magic. And from what I can understand, their history dates back towards thousands of years, unlike ours which only goes up to hundreds.'

That was something that was troubling him the most. This civilization has had thousands of years to build a stable symbiosis between them and Pokémon. Despite the dangers and destruction they could cause, they all seem to be on friendly terms with each other. These humans have a more advanced civilization and technology than theirs. They had stable means, an economy, and had cuisines and architecture that put even the most prosperous kingdom to shame.

Every aspect of this world only made Shiin realize just how inferior their society was to here. And that's the scary part.

As he was scrolling through the photos, he checked the amount of memory he had left. 'I don't have much left. I've wasted too much time.' He shot up from his resting spot and started walking for a pathway that took him to one of the busier streets. 'They mentioned before they were going to meet up with this 'Professor Sycamore' and his laboratory. Perhaps the valuable data that I need will be there. Now, which direction is it…?'

"I tell ya, it's good to be back here Dereece."

"Heh, you said it."

Shiin froze as he was coming up on a corner to Autumnal Avenue. Recognizing the voices and magic signatures, he quickly requipped his cloak and camouflaged from sight. He watched as Joey and Dereece walked past him with Styrofoam cups in hand out of the Juice Shoppe that was right there.

"Been a hot minute since we had some juice from there. Always hits the spot." Joey chimed.

Dereece chuckled. "I hear that. Especially the purple ones. Those ones hit my spot." Dereece chimed.

"Please, hard to beat the blue juice. Has that right amount of blend between Oran and Bluk Berries."

"Too bad we didn't have enough for their Ultra-Rare Soda Pops. Heard those ones are said to make a Pokémon stronger."

"With a price like that, hard to say no. Oh well, guess it can't be helped." Joey finished the last of his drink before throwing it away in a nearby trash bin. "So, you ready to visit the professor?"

Dereece nodded. "Yeah, sure am. Hopefully he's not busy."

"Don't worry, I called earlier today and got us penciled in around 4:30. If we use the Gogoat Shuttle or a cab, we should get there well before the scheduled time."

Dereece blinked for a moment, but put on an accepting smile. "Y'know, it scares me sometimes how much more responsible you've become, Jo-Jo."

Joey put his hands behind his head and smirked. "Hey, keeping people on their toes is better than being flat-footed."

As they walked southward towards Professor Sycamore's lab, Shiin removed his cloak, seeing an opportunity before him. 'Perhaps there is such a thing as luck after all. They'll lead me right towards this professor.' With a plan in mind, Shiin started following Joey and Dereece. Far enough to be out of earshot, but close enough to where they were in his sight.

…

A short lift via the Gogoat Shuttle took them to the front of Professor Sycamore's lab. Once they paid for the fare, the Gogoat was off to do more rounds. Joey and Dereece found themselves before the place where it all began for them six months ago.

"Hard to believe that it's been six months." Dereece swooned. His gaze fell towards the third floor, where he could see a window where the professor's desk was. "Wonder how he's doing now?"

"Let's go find out." Joey made way towards the entrance, Dereece being in tow.

Behind them, Shiin was camouflaged and stood a few paces behind them. He took a picture of the lab's exterior, minding to keep the flash off before following the two into the lab.

Once inside, Joey and Dereece walked towards the first floor's receptionist. When she heard the doors opening, she looked up and immediately greeted them. "Hello, and welcome to Professor Sycamore's Lab. Is there anything we can help you with?"

Joey spoke up. "Yeah, I called earlier to see him. Is he busy at the moment?"

"One moment please." She scooted her chair across the floor behind her desk towards the phone. There, she made a call towards the third floor. "Hello, Professor Sycamore? It's Clara from the first floor."

There was some muffling on Professor Sycamore's end. Joey and Dereece shot glances at each other then back at the receptionist.

"The appointment scheduled at 4:30, the Trainers are here…yes, they're the same ones." She scooted over towards a pile of neatly stacked portfolios and brought out two portfolios containing Joey and Dereece's information. "Yes, those ones."

The muffled noises sounded urgent, to which Clara understood. "I'll send them up right away." She put the phone down and turned towards the young Trainers with a smile. "You boys are in luck. Professor Sycamore has been waiting for you ever since you made the appointment. He's anxious to see you both."

Joey turned towards Dereece with a grin. "Well, guess we can't keep him waiting any longer."

"Right, let's go."

The two (along with a cloaked Shiin) made their way towards the elevator. The contraption surprised Shiin, as he never saw an elevator before. Regardless, he managed to sneak through just before the door shut.

Joey pressed the top button, taking them to the third level. After thirty seconds and watching the numerical icon finally reaching 3, the elevator stopped and opened. Immediately upon exiting, the first thing to greet them was Professor Sycamore himself.

"Ah, welcome! Welcome you two!" The jovial professor had open arms as he smiled brightly.

Dereece looked surprised. "Professor Sycamore!"

Concealed behind Joey and Dereece, Shiin kept his eyes locked on the Pokémon professor. 'So that's Professor Sycamore…'

Professor Sycamore walked over towards them. "When I heard you two were coming, you can imagine my surprise." He stopped before them and studied them carefully. "Are you both well? Are you hurt?"

"Bright as rain, prof. See?" Joey put a hand to his hip with his other arm out, his wrist hanging loosely with a sassy smirk. The ole Joey poise was going on strong.

The professor let out a sigh of relief. "That's good…words cannot describe how I felt that day when you both disappeared. When that star struck the lab, I thought for a while that you two…"

Joey and Dereece frowned at the insinuation. They could understand just how weighed down the professor must have felt from such an incident. Anybody would feel guilty for having such an awful thing done to them when their journey was only just beginning. It only made the boys feel all the more responsible to alleviate his woes.

"Hey, it's okay, really." Joey assured in a sincere voice.

"Yeah, it wasn't your fault." Dereece assured. "I mean, we're here now, right? In one piece like how we left."

The professor sniffled and straightened up, his smile returning. "Oui, you're both right. Still, words alone can't express how much joy it brings me to see you alive and well. I saw that broadcast from all those months ago." He put a hand on his chin. "To think you'd venture into another world of all places. Could this be a work of fate telling you there's more paths for a Trainer to take that we know of?"

"Well, it's been something, we can tell you that much." Dereece chimed.

"Ain't that putting it mildly." Joey muttered closely to Dereece, who knowingly smirked.

"Well, in any case, I welcome you both to my lab. Please, let's go over towards my office area. I have some Chaussons aux Pommes ready while we talk." Professor Sycamore turned and started walking towards his refurnished office area. Joey and Dereece followed behind, with Shiin silently taking pictures of the numerous files and decorations that were all too foreign for him. He wanted to touch and go through them, but with the several personnel around, he couldn't take that risk. Words couldn't express how tempted he was to even try one of these bizarre sounding snacks the professor spoke of, but as much as his stomach grumbled with agony, he reigned himself in.

A scientist nearby walked towards a nearby stack of papers and picked it up. "I'll drop these off to the 2nd floor team. They have room down there."

'2nd floor?' Shiin's mind flashed with an epiphany. 'That's right. We missed a floor on our way up here. This laboratory is divided into three floors. The 1st floor is the main lobby and reception area. This floor is the professor's domain. So then…the data and research must be on the 2nd floor!'

Now he knew he couldn't let this opportunity slide. This was the very thing he needed! As soon as the scientist opened the elevator, Shiin slipped in just before the doors shut.

In his office area, Professor Sycamore sat in his chair as Joey and Dereece sat across, the three enjoying a serving of fresh pastries between them. The professor was currently hearing out the young men as they recounted their adventures and the many battles that they partook in alongside their Pokémon and mages.

"I see…that is certainly a lot to go through." He surmised with a serious yet thoughtful expression. "Is it true that you learned magic, too?"

Joey nodded, albeit confidently. "Yeah, it's true."

The professor folded his fingers and gave the two boys a critical look. "Then…perhaps you wouldn't mind showing me?"

Seeing no reason to hide, this was their chance to show off. "Yeah, watch this." Joey looked over his shoulder and reached his arm out. A turquoise barrier appeared like a glass wall, surprising Professor Sycamore.

"My word!" Professor Sycamore's surprise was expected.

"And that's not all. Look." Dereece got up from his seat and walked over towards the barrier. The professor's shock mounted as he watched Dereece's feet left the ground and stuck vertically to the barrier's surface. "See? No hands."

"I…I…" The professor was flabbergasted. He reeled back in his seat as he was processing what he was seeing. And he had every right to be. This completely went against everything he knew about humans. This left him with a mixture of awe and wonder at just what kinds of magical powers these guild mages have that he has yet to know of.

After gathering his composure, he cleared his throat before speaking. "…I see. That's definitely some very interesting powers you both got. I'm truly impressed."

"We also caught some Pokémon as well." Joey noted.

"Oh? So you both saw plenty of Pokémon over there?" Professor Sycamore beamed with enthusiasm. "Why, bring them out! I'd like to see them."

Dereece blinked. "Really? Here?"

"Yes, of course! Not that it's obvious, but the floor's been reinforced. Why, my office space alone could handle up to five Metagross trouncing around."

With his reassurance, Joey and Dereece exchanged grins as they pulled out their variety of Poké Balls.

"Alright! Come out, guys!" Joey threw all six into the air.

"Up and at'em!" Dereece followed the notion.

Ten capsules reached the peak of their inertia before they simultaneously popped open. White energy expelled and released all of Joey and Dereece's Pokémon, who stretched and roared with enthusiasm.

Professor Sycamore eyed all of them with a bright smile. "Magnifique! You both quite yourselves quite the array of Pokémon, haven't you?" His attention turned towards Quilladin. "Joey, is that…?"

"Yup, he's the same Chespin I chose from here." Joey confirmed with pride.

"(Hey there, Professor! Long time, no see!)" Quilladin cheerfully greeted, raising a claw.

"Ah, so he's evolved. Tres bien!" the professor clapped in delight.

"(Počkaj, už si tu bol?)" Palpitoad asked the Grass-type in question.

Quilladin turned with a grin. "(Yeah, was actually brought up here. I was amongst the Starters that a new Trainer can get. And that's pretty much how I met Joey.)"

Garbodor belched.

"(Oh, it's not a bad room once you see it from up here!)" Tranquill was perched atop Gyarados's head as he shaded his head with his wing, scoping the view below. "(Maybe a little more decorations up here would be nice.)"

"(Oh! You could do another painting!)" Larvesta suggested.

Palpitoad croaked a laugh. "(Čoho? Ole' Joey je kráľom? Mali by ste väčšie šťastie, keby ste to mali vystavené v múzeu, perie.)"

Tranquill's eyes widened. "(You really think so?)"

Gyarados scoffed. "(Don't bother. He's just plucking your feathers.)"

"(This is a neat place.)" Heracross scoped the organized facility, Yanmega perched on his horn. "(Does it have Honey?)"

"(I hope so. I'm getting a little hungry.)" Yanmega chimed.

Heracross looked up and smiled. "(You and me both.)"

"(If you find some, then we have more of a reason to stick around!)" Stunfisk dryly joked, laughing at his pun.

"(Oh, hush you! You'll only encourage them.)" Seel chided.

"Those look like some lively Pokémon you both have there. I'm impressed." Professor Sycamore commended. "Especially..." His attention drew towards Gyarados and Heracross, catching their wary eyes. "Those two."

Gyarados and Heracross hummed, both equally confused by this man's attention on them.

"Professor…is there something wrong?" Dereece asked, picking up on Sycamore's sudden shift in focus.

The professor was silent as he smiled with fascination. "Oh, sorry. Where did my manners run off to? I don't suppose you boys heard about what I research, do you?"

"Uh…" Dereece tried to come up with an idea, but the professor beat him to the answer.

"It's Mega Evolution. I'm sure you boys are at least aware of the concept. When a Pokémon undergoes Mega Evolution, much of their powers temporarily get enhanced in battle. Oftentimes, their types change, as do their Abilities. And it just so happens that your Gyarados and Heracross are amongst those Pokémon that are capable of such a feat." A lightbulb went off inside his head. "Say, I've been hearing talk about these games that are going to be taking place in your world. How about I give you boys a gift?"

Joey raised a brow. "A gift?"

"For us?" Dereece parroted.

"Oui! In fact, I have some with me right now. Hold on a moment." He headed back behind his desk in search for something. As he was rummaging around for something in his drawers, the others turned towards each other in wonder of what this 'gift' would entail.

"Where is it…ah! Here we are!" He shuffled from behind the desk with a silver safe box. He placed the box on his desk with a rather loud thud, indicating how heavy it was.

"A box?" Dereece wondered.

Sycamore nodded. "Oui, but it's what's inside the box that I want to give you both."

Joey and Dereece were more curious than ever. They stepped forward as the professor was putting in a code to unlock the box. Once the code was punched in, the box unlocked with a loud click and pried open itself. The professor stepped off to the side to present Joey and Dereece their spoils. "Voila!"

The two eyed the contents inside and their eyes immediately widened with shock. "Woooaahh…"

In front of them was the suitcase…with at least twenty Key Stones inside! Each one was cradled in velvet cushions that provided soft comfort. No wonder they were surprised.

"You see, over the years, I've been collecting all kinds of Key Stones and Mega Stones for research purposes." Professor Sycamore explained. "But given this is a special occasion, I think you both are deserving of one each."

"Wait, you mean…?" Dereece trailed off, realizing where this was heading.

'That means we'll be able to do Mega Evolution, just like Erza-senpai and the Pularis siblings!' Joey's heart skipped several beats. This was just the thing they needed to get stronger and ready for the games. Well, when they complete a couple more jobs of course.

"Yes, that's right. You both will have the privilege of Mega Evolving your Heracross and Gyarados. Here." He reached into the open box, pulling out two Key Stones and presented them to the boys. Despite some hesitation, they ended up accepting his courtesy. "Now, for you two…"

Gyarados and Heracross hummed again, realizing they caught his attention.

The professor walked around and scrambled for something else, though not nearly as difficult to get with how fast he pulled out another safe. He reached into it, pulling out two marble-sized stones.

One stone had a dense yellow filling that was borderline gold. In the middle was an insignia that mimicked the Mega Evolution symbol. Mixtures of deep blue with a red middle and a tiny sliver of purple encompassed said area.

The other stone was a similar golden filling with a familiar shade of blue as well. However, unlike the red and purple sliver that the other stone had, this one was orange with a tiny sliver of red.

Joey's eyes widened as he realized what they were. "Wait…Mega Stones?!"

Professor Sycamore turned towards him with a smirk. "Ah, so you're aware then." He held up one stone towards Gyarados. "This one is known as a Gyaradosite." He held the other out towards Heracross. "And this one's a Heracronite. With these, they'll be able to undergo Mega Evolution."

Gyarados and Heracross awed at their respective stones. For some reason, the two felt an odd force drawing them in towards the stones. Gyarados didn't know why, but it itched his scales like crazy. Almost so that he wanted to thrash about. Thankfully he had just enough common sense to not do that…barely. Heracross was in a similar boat, though he was more in control as he felt his body temperature rise.

"(You feel that…?)" Heracross muttered.

"(Yeah, I do.)" Gyarados awed. "(It's like this tiny orb has my essence written all over it!)"

"(Yeah…I feel like I can fly up a mountain with this momentum.)"

Professor Sycamore put a hand to his chin. "Y'know, this could be a good opportunity. How would you like to test them out?"

The four looked stunned to say the least.

"Wait…you mean right now?!" Joey emphasized.

The professor nodded again. "Of course. There hasn't been much opportunity to gather information on Mega Evolution up close. This could be a great experience for all of us."

Dereece turned towards Heracross. "What do you say? Wanna give it a whirl?"

"(Sure am!)" Heracross flexed his arms readily.

Dereece chuckled. It was strange not understanding his Pokémon anymore, but he somehow understood what Heracross was trying to say. He chuckled. "Guess that's a yes from us."

Joey turned towards Gyarados. "Let's say you? Wanna get stronger?"

As if by instinct, Gyarados reared his head up and snarled in challenge. "(Yes! Let's grow stronger!)" His main drive. One he never forgot as a Magikarp thanks to Joey pushing him. '(I will not stop pushing…nothing will stand in our path with this in our grasp!)'

"Excellent, then follow me." The professor left his office area, guiding Joey and Dereece, as well as their Pokémon, to their next destination.

---

The sound of an elevator went off, and Shiin knew he had reached the second level. When the doors opened, he made sure his camouflage cloak was on so he wouldn't be immediately spotted. He slowly maneuvered out onto the floor, and his hidden eyes widened at everything before him.

As expected, the walls were painted blue, but the floor was a clean white, with at least a dozen people in white lab coats pacing around with tasks and assignments given to them. The spacious room was brimming with numerous machines that were powered by electricity. In one corner, he saw an entire array of screens that weren't lacrima vision and clumped together to make images of DNA. More panels showed images of Pokémon, as well as the human anatomy. There was even a larger machine at the base that had six Pokémon Balls floating above six lights with no physiological explanation.

'So, this is PokéEarth technology.' Shiin ogled everything while reminding himself to be as quiet as possible. Assuming they didn't track his Magic Power or heat signature, he was certain the cloak could keep him safe from view. It'd be a hassle otherwise.

With his cover concealed, he started maneuvering around the room, minding the people walking and nearby objects so as not to bump into them. Silent pictures were taken of every corner of the facility, including the technology and the schematics that were on the walls.

'This will be a milestone for the government's research, but this isn't enough. I need more hard proof.'

"I'm going on my lunchbreak." One of the assistance spoke up, catching Shiin's attention. When he turned towards him, there was a light-skinned middle-aged man with orange, kempt hair with spectacles.

"Did you make sure to update the software on the PokéDexes?" A female assistant asked.

"Yes, I managed to input the software. They should be updated by now."

"Alright, have fun on your lunch hour."

As the assistant was making way towards the elevator, Shiin saw a golden opportunity arise. His fixation fell onto the mention of the devices just now and thought back to something. 'These PokéDexes…could they be the same ones that the others use to identify Pokémon?' If that really were the case, then he couldn't waste this opportunity!

He waited until the assistant left in the elevator. Once it was closed, he maneuvered towards a corner where boxes were shielding him from view. Underneath his camouflaged cloak, he used his Transformation Magic to morph into the same guy that just left the floor. He undid his cloak and requipped it away, leaving him with a transformed lab coat. He looked around to see if anyone was watching and made sure the coast was clear before starting for one of the machines in the back.

There. He saw at least a dozen square-like devices that were inserted in slots that gave off a blue hum. The hub itself was attached to the wall-mounted monitor showing numbers and articles that were looked at beforehand. He walked up to said port and took one.

'Using someone else's identity isn't my style, but I have no choice in this matter. Their security here might be tight. Best to go as someone familiar until I-'

"Wait, Charles?"

A feminine voice spoke up. Shiin – now Charles – turned to meet with the associate. 'Crap! They don't have magic, so I can't detect them!'

"What are you doing? I thought you said you were going on your lunch hour."

Shiin cleared his throat and hastily thought of a response. "Ah, I did. But something just came up. You see, the professor wanted a copy of one of the updated PokéDex, so I was going to deliver it to him while on my way out." A feasible excuse, but better than nothing. He hoped it was enough to sell the illusion.

"Oh, okay. We'll just take it out of inventory if nothing else. The software is set for the next batch that's brought in." She nodded, buying the façade.

"Alright, thanks." Simple words with simple actions, and with optimal results no less. With relief, the disguised Shiin made way towards the elevator with the Poké Dex in his coat pocket. 'Alright, objective complete. I only have enough memory on my camera for one more photo, but surely I have enough.' He made it towards the elevator and pressed the button. 'I'll just stick around until Nic returns. That should give me enough time to look around and…'

The elevator door opened, but it wasn't vacant like he thought. His troubles only brewed into a storm when he saw Professor Sycamore, Joey, and Dereece all in the shaft together. This only made his not-so-complicated excursion even more complicated.

'Of all the…!' He fought the urge to grit his teeth and silently walked into the elevator, not wanting – needing – to show any signs of hesitation. As soon as the elevator was closed, the disguised colleague cleared his throat. "Professor." He greeted with a simple nod.

"Ah, good afternoon, Charles. How's everything looking?" the professor asked.

"Everything is going as planned today. I was on my way out for some lunch."

Sycamore smiled. "I see. It is that time. Say, before you go, would you be willing to help me out with something?"

'I'd rather not do anything to help the likes of you otherworlder.' Shiin scornfully spite in thought, but played it as leveled as he could. "That depends. Will it be brief?"

"Well, I wouldn't say brief, but it's important." He gestured towards Joey and Dereece. "You see, these two are going to have a battle involving Mega Evolution, so it would really be helpful if someone could help capture the data."

The objections Shiin had moments ago almost instantly was washed away with a sense of curiosity, then dread. 'Wait…Mega Evolution?' Now this was something worth paying attention too. 'Could this be a special technique unique to Pokémon just like those Z-Moves? If so…' Steeling himself, he gave his answer. "Alright."

The professor's grin widened. "Marvelous! Now, let's get going, shall we?" He moved passed Joey and Dereece, pressing a button at the bottom of the panel. The button shined red, unlike the three yellow ones above it.

As they descended, Joey's gaze fell onto 'Charles'. He retained silence as something felt…off. He couldn't explain it, but he was sensing something familiar from him, a sensation he had grown accustomed to back on Earthland.

He looked towards Dereece to see him shooting glances as well. As if a silent exchange, they chose to say nothing and focus on their objective.

Soon enough, the elevator had come to its stop. With a sound no different to a timer's ding, the door flung open and allowed them all to exit. What they stepped out into the open, they were all surprised when they didn't find the first floor's lobby, but another floor entirely.

"W-what is…?!" Dereece trailed off in shock.

Professor Sycamore scanned his surroundings, looking satisfied. "Yes, this should do nicely."

Before them was a massive area with sleek walls that arched into a dome-like ceiling. Dense, dark-gray arches supported the sides that connected at the epicenter above, which was a red core with a single circular arch overlapping the others to keep them together. The ground was flat with no accommodations aside from the battlefield itself.

"An underground battlefield?" Joey gasped.

Professor Sycamore started before them. "That's right. We use this for research and practice purposes, but it's sturdy enough for battling as well." He looked back with a smirk. "So, you fellas ready?"

They didn't have to think twice. "Of course."

Professor Sycamore walked up towards 'Charles', presenting him with a tablet. "Here, Charles. Use this to record the battle. It'll also detail their Mega Evolution energy as well."

"Uh, sure." Shiin accepted the tablet, looking down at the monitor with skepticism. He was holding otherworldly technology now. The tablet looked fragile, and the strange bars and diagrams that were on the screen boggled him. He could only blink and try to look like he knew what he was doing.

In a matter of moments, everything was set in place. Joey and his Gyarados were across from Dereece and his Heracross. The professor himself stood off to the side to act as the referee. Off to the wall, both Joey and Dereece's Pokémon observed the battle to unfold. Shiin was too, and after fiddling around with the device for a few minutes, he managed to activate the recording setting.

With the press of the digital button, the charts and diagrams minimized to a smaller screen as the camera on the tablet looked downwards. This took him by surprise, then looked up at the ceiling at the red core. 'I see, so that's also a camera as well.'

Gyarados thumped his tail on the ground, making the ground shudder. With the Gyaradosite attached to him, he looked more ready to battle than he ever did before. Joey stood behind him, a hand to his side with a serious but confident expression.

"(I'm gonna be hungry for some honey after this workout!)" Heracross beamed, raring his horn.

"(You'll be eating dirt as an appetizer.)" Gyarados snarled.

"Been a while since we had a battle for data purposes, hasn't it, Dereece?" Joey smirked.

"Yeah, sure has." Dereece put on an equally enthusiastic grin. "And we plan to win all the same!"

"(Good luck, you guys!)" Larvesta eagerly cheered, twirling with a light skip.

"(This'll be a Hoothoot.)" Stunfisk huffed.

Professor Sycamore looked between the two sides to check their statuses. "Is everyone ready?"

"Ready and willing."

"Right."

At Joey and Dereece's confirmation, Gyarados and Heracross readily glared at each other.

With the okay, Sycamore brought his arm down in a chop. "Then, battle…begin!"

Gyarados's purple eyes dilated as he let out a ferocious roar that spouted airwaves. Heracross felt his body slightly shudder as his opponent's Intimidate Ability took instant effect, lowering his Attack strength.

"That's gonna be a problem." Dereece muttered, but stayed diligent in what was coming.

Joey was the first to instigate the attack by swiping his arm across. "Gyarados, Aqua Tail!"

Gyarados roared mightily once more and slammed his tail on the ground. Vapor formulated into a spiral of water that enveloped his lower-half and he swerved across the battlefield to close in on his foe.

"Dodge it!" Dereece ordered.

Heracross braced himself and waited for when Gyarados was right over him. The Atrocious Pokémon bellowed as he swung his tail across like a mighty tidal wave. Heracross's wing shields unfolded and shot above the current at the last second, becoming eye-level with his opponent.

"Aerial Ace!" At Dereece's behest, Heracross's wings beat faster and he shot in a streaking blur straight into Gyarados's face.

Joey, however, had anticipated that and squinted. "Counter with Ice Fang!"

Gyarados gaped his mouth wider as his four immense fangs grew longer with ice, with icy aura energy making ethereal fangs in the process. The two sets of teeth lunged and met the barreling Heracross centerfield. The fangs chomped down on his horn with force that made a small, frosty gust expel everywhere.

Despite the momentum Heracross had earlier, he fell short as he felt a sharp, cold pain from the damage Gyarados's attack did, slightly freezing his horn in the process.

"Now send him flying!" Joey whipped his arm around.

"(You wanna fly?)" Gyarados snarled, bringing his head around to throw him. "(Hope you got airbrakes!)"

Heracross began to show signs of panicking as he started flailing. Seeing this, Dereece clenched his fists.

"Dig your heels in and slam him down!"

Heracross immediately quelled and focused. As Gyarados was coming around, the Single Horn Pokémon forced the giant aquatic dragon to swing lower. He grinded his heels into the ground until he was anchored down. Using his brute strength, he raised his horn high, forcing a shocked Gyarados to flip overhead. Once he was at peak kinetic energy straight above, Heracross pivoted and brought his head down, forcing Gyarados to slam into the battlefield with enough force to shake the entire floor. The force was so strong it caused him to gag.

Joey looked shocked. 'I almost forgot how brutally strong Heracross is with his horn alone.'

Dereece smirked, swiping across. "Alright! Pin Missile!"

Heracross couldn't have played that better himself. His horn glowed white, dispersing the ice that was on it in favor of launching four orbs in green comets that spearheaded towards Gyarados as he still reeled.

"Incoming, Gyarados!" Joey clenched a fist. "Just like we rehearsed! Counter with Aqua Tail!"

Gyarados opened his eyes and became aware. Shaking off the impact, his tail swung lively with another dense aquatic spiral. He grunted heavily as he started spinning on his upper-half, almost like a breakdance as his Aqua Tail became a whirling wrecking ball above.

The Pin Missile barrage met the spiraling blockade, dispersing in its wake and surprising his opponents.

"(He blocked it?!)" Heracross yelped.

"Using an offensive move to counter…" Dereece muttered. "The Captain's really gained experience. But…"

Gyarados swung harder, gaining momentum until he brought the wake across once more towards Heracross's side.

"…so did we! Use Counter!"

Heracross grunted and braced himself. His body gave off a strong, multicolored sheen that was ready to take the wallop.

Joey's eyes widened as he gasped. Realizing Gyarados's tail was getting dangerously close, he tried to warn him. "Gyarados!"

Gyarados's eyes widened at what he was doing. Realizing the severity of what would happen, the Atrocious Pokmon dragged his swinging tail with all the momentum he could muster at the last possible second. Just before the wave could strike and bounce off Heracross, it was pulled just above his horn and overhead, the hydrokinetics of his move in freefall.

'Now!' Dereece punched forward with gusto. "Alright, Brick Break!"

Heracross's arms glowed bright white as he soared off the ground towards Gyarados head-on.

"Not so fast!" Joey countered. "Waterfall!"

Gyarados's body expelled water from beneath him that he forced forward. The pseudo-wave helped him as he rushed after Heracross.

The two met centerfield, making another shockwave push air and water around. Heracross grunted as his fist connected with Gyarados's crown, but not only did it not have any significant effect, but he could feel the force gradually overwhelm him by the passing seconds!

Gyarados bared his fangs. "(You think that'll stop me?! Graaaaah!)" He mowed forward, overwhelming Heracross and their standstill. The Bug/Fighting type was unable to hold his ground as the rushing water was shoving him along with Gyarados's momentum.

"Pin Missile!"

Heracross's horn glowed as he made a desperate attempt to launch two streaming orbs at point-blank range into his opponent. An explosion of water and green energy overtook the area, briefly obscuring everyone's view of the battle.

Gyarados lurched back, but otherwise looked fine. Heracross slid far back close to Dereece, staggering from the wake he barely broke out of.

"(Woah! Look at'em go!)" Larvesta awed.

"(Yeah, those guys are putting the other through their paces.)" Quilladin chimed.

Garbodor belched her sentiment.

"(Gosh, to think dat Counter would've been the end for poor Gyarados. Dat was close.)" Seel commented.

"(Yeah, but it looks like the big guy turned tail.)" Stunfisk joked, breaking into a snicker with a smile.

"(I don't think he's looking to run anywhere.)" Yanmega warned. Her attention fell onto her own teammate. '(Heracross…)'

"Heracross!" Dereece panicked.

"(I'm fine!)" He insisted, looking back and nodding to assure him. He turned towards Gyarados, surprisingly smirking. "(It's gonna take more than that to stop me.)"

Gyarados raised his head, his plastered mouth curving into a grin. "(Ha! We welcome the challenge!)"

Seeing how they were interacting, Joey nodded. "That should do it. What do you think, Dereece? We all warmed up?"

"Looks like it." He confirmed. "Alright…it's time."

Joey smirked. "Couldn't agree more."

Both held up their Key Stones that shimmered under the room's lighting.

'This is it. Time to see what this so-called 'Mega Evolution' is all about.' Shiin thought, still keeping tabs on the monitor before him.

"(Ach, toto bude dobré.)" Palpitoad gurgled.

"(Yeah, sure will.)" Tranquill replied. "(Does anyone have popcorn?)"

"Ready?! Showtime, Gyarados!" Joey shouted.

Gyarados's eyes shrank as he careened his head up and roared again. "(LET'S DO THIS!)"

"You heard'em, Heracross. Ready?" Dereece asked.

Heracross spread his legs, looking steadily at his foe. "(All you gotta do is ask and I'm ready, pal.)"

Everything fell silent around them as the two sides focused. Professor Sycamore, Shin, and the Pokémon were speechless as they were feeling the atmosphere change. The sign of a shift in battle that was instinctual to them at this point. As Joey and Dereece pressed on their Key Stones, they resonated and began giving off a strong, multicolored glow for a moment before the light beams became defined.

"Gyarados…"

"Heracross…"

The two held up their Key Stones high, the light beams turning into tendrils. Both Gyarados and Heracross's Mega Stones resonated with their partners and unleashed four tendrils each; orange for Gyarados, while Heracross was more of a golden shade.

"MEGA EVOLVE!"

The tendrils lashed through the air until they connected with their respective Key Stones. Ley lines became white and transferred down the connected chords until they reached the Mega Stones. The pressure shifted to where the air felt light around Gyarados and Heracross. They grunted and roared as their bodily structures changed before everyone's eyes.

Shiin, who was still observing, found himself speechless. 'What's this pressure I'm feeling? It's not magic…could this be of…!'

The lights swelling around them violently shook the atmosphere, until finally they erupted and expelled a shockwave in all directions. Everyone held their ground until the winds dialed down to look back, only to be left with utter shock at what they witnessed.

Gyarados's body overall became bulkier, with the bright blue shade of his body turning to a darker blue. The fins on his cheeks became longer with a yellow tint, as did the massive fins with blue spines going down his back. His crest and underside turned black, with the former's barbels getting much longer as well. The scales on his sides became more profound and red in shade. Most of his fins on his back vanished, replaced by two rows of blue spikes. Four yellow fins were now near his tail. His purple eyes were now a destructive red shade.

Heracross's own Mega Evolution wasn't as profoundly different, but there were notable differences. For example, like Mega Gyarados, Mega Heracross was bulkier than his previous form. Thin orange markings rim his head, hands, and shoulders. He now had a long, pointed nose curving upwards. Meanwhile, his proud horn was now one massive spike with smaller spikes towards the front. Though, the biggest difference was that his forearms lost their spines and grew rounder.

Both raised their heads high and roared once more, shockwaves spewing across the entire floor once more.

Professor Sycamore recovered, looking satisfied with what he was seeing. "Marvelous job."

Dereece was too stunned for words, but Joey smirked with glee. "Now we're talking."

Shiin's eyes shrank with disbelief, feeling a chill run down his spine as the winds settled down. 'This form change, and this pressure…this is Mega Evolution? And it's activated by those particular stones they're using.' He got something on his screen and looked down. He noticed diagrams shifting with the influx of energy produced. 'And Mega Evolution produces this much of an energy difference?!'

'(So, this is what my new body feels like.)' Mega Heracross moved his bulky arms up and down, then bent his legs. He was shocked that his wings were gone, but something else caught his attention. "(Holy…I have a nose!?)"

Mega Gyarados didn't vocalize his shock. He didn't need to. A low, bloodthirsty snarl echoed from him as his eyes burned with a furious passion that said one thing: Destruction.

Not wasting time, Joey rode with the momentum while keeping his wits. 'We've played the games through high school, so I was expecting this.' He analyzed the battle and the new dynamics. 'Now that we've Mega Evolved, Mega Gyarados is now a Water/Dark-type, meaning Bug and Fighting-type moves are super effective on us now. But Intimidate is still in play, so we should be even.'

'Mega Heracross can't fly anymore, but in exchange, his arms become cannons like Magmortar.' Dereece evaluated, recalling his gaming experience. 'And Mega Gyarados is a Dark-type. Our Attack is still down, but the extra strength we have from Mega Evolution should compensate for that now.'

Professor Sycamore took note of the boys' expressions. 'Looks like they're thinking their next moves through. Seems they know what they're doing after all.'

Joey reached an arm out. "Let's see how you handle this! Waterfall!"

Mega Gyarados bellowed as his body tensed. Rather than expel water forward, the orifices on his sides shot out water, shooting him at high speeds across the ground barreling towards Mega Heracross at an alarming rate.

'Using water pressure to increase speed?!' Shiin exclaimed.

"Mega Heracross, intercept and throw him!" Dereece commanded.

Getting over his new fixation on his nose, Mega Heracross saw Mega Gyarados quickly closing the gap and stuck his bulky arms out. The massive beast's force was stopped cold as water continued shooting out from his jets, slowly getting the upper hand on the momentum. However, Mega Heracross's body was rapidly heating up from pressure building. He dug his heels into the ground and let out a loud cry as he used his horn to dig beneath his foe and leveraged him skywards.

Everyone's eyes widened as they traced upwards at Mega Gyarados's ascent.

"(Woah…)" Stunfisk awed.

In midair, Mega Gyarados's momentum was gone, leaving him in freefall and a prime target for Mega Heracross.

"Alright, time to use Pin Missile!"

As if on instinct, Mega Heracross knew what to do. His arms jutted forward, their exoskeleton jutting out to reveal yellow undersides. The claws retreated to reveal three holes, giving the appearance of launchers. Heat expelled from his body as numerous white orbs surrounded by green energy spearhead with sharp tips towards Mega Gyarados, their numbers far greater than they were before.

"Mega Gyarados, intercept with Aqua Tail!"

Mega Gyarados regained his composure as water pressure spiraled around his tail. Even in midair, he lugged his body around, creating a massive wave arch that met all the projectiles at once. Multiple explosions went off that dispersed the water, leaving a stalemate between the two sides.

"Now, Brick Break!" Dereece followed up.

Mega Heracross used his enhanced muscles to leap. Despite being devoid of wings, he was no slouch as he met Mega Gyarados at eye level with his arms glowing bright white. He brought his right arm back and struck his black underside, an airwave expelling as it sent Mega Gyarados crashing into the ground and sliding backwards, leaving a dented battlefield underneath. Joey covered up as the winds flailed his coat.

"(Oh! He's gonna be feeling that in the morning.)" Seel grimaced.

Not letting up, Dereece reached out. "Pin Missile!"

In midair, Mega Heracross's arms folded out once more, his claws retracting to take aim. Joey was on high alert. "Mega Gyarados!"

Mega Gyarados's eyes snapped open, his ferocious drive instantly making him alert.

"(HRAH~!)" Dozens of projectiles rained down from above, all converging onto the Water/Dark-type as he brought his tail around knowing what to do.

"Aqua Tail!"

As soon as the word was said, his tail swept in front, the enormous wave blocking the immediate projectiles while others barreled into the ground around him. Green explosions lit up the earth beneath him, but that did little to deter him as Mega Heracross came down with arms pulled back.

"Brick Break!" His arms glowed bright white as he brought them both down.

Joey's eyes narrowed. "No, you don't! Dodge!"

His eyes dilated, snarling menacingly. He seemingly understood as he pulled his head back at the last second, letting Mega Heracross crash into the ground in front of him. A shockwave flew about as the battlefield was layered with yet another crater from impact.

With momentum back on their side, Joey followed up quickly. "Now, Bite!"

Mega Gyarados's fangs glowed bright white as he lurched down, snapping down on Mega Heracross's spiked horn. Though it wasn't very effective, it was enough to make Mega Heracross feel a sharp sting in his head.

"You got this, Heracross! Counter!" Dereece shouted.

Mega Heracross opened his eyes, getting the urge to fight back. He tensed his body beneath Mega Gyarados's jaw strength and a multicolored energy coat covered his body. Even though he knew it was coming, the latter couldn't pull away in time before a fist uppercutted his spiked chin, forcing him to take double the damage and slid further back until he stopped in front of Joey.

"Mega Gyarados!" Joey watched his partner take the hit, watching him grunt with his bodily posture faltering. Joey gnashed his teeth. 'Not good. One more hit, and we're done.'

Mega Heracross jumped back, getting a breather to cool down his heated body. "(My body feels like it's on fire! Is this what a Fire-type feels like?)"

'Bite's not that strong of a move, but it's still effective thanks to Mega Gyarados being a Dark-type.' Dereece thought. 'Must've been relying on the flinch effect to try and finish us. But it looks like that Counter put him on the edge. One more hit should do the trick.'

Mega Heracross steadied himself for his comeback. His higher body temperature was enough to make a normal human run a fever, and yet it felt like it was instead making him energetic. Was this similar to how Natsu felt when he yells stuff like "I've got a fire in my belly!"? Ironic that he was weak to fire, he didn't bother to focus on that. Whatever he was feeling, he was going to use it to bring this victory to himself and Dereece.

Across the battlefield, Mega Gyarados was a different story. Although his adversary had been dealt a great deal of damage, he took some nasty blows as well. It was strange. Aside from Heracross's Counter, he didn't have to worry so much about this opponent, not even in training. Not only did his typing curse him against this opponent, but even with a lowered Attack stat, his opponent's power still increased! Enough to nearly cripple him. Him! After all the training and effort that he had put into getting stronger. It was outrageous. No, worse than that. It was downright humiliating!

'(Even though I have evolved…I am still cornered like this?)' His eyes burned with his fury. So much so that his already red vision didn't register anything around him…except for one thing that kept him sane. '(Joey.)'

He locked eye contact with his Trainer, the one who caught him on a miraculous whim. At first it seemed better than being a Pelipper's lunch, but it became something more as the two were training hard.

"Hey, Joey?"

Taking a breather beside the pond where Joey was resting, he looked over at his Magikarp. "What's up, need another Leppa Berry?"

"No, I'm good. It's just…" His fins slowly paddled back and forth, a sign of unease that didn't go unnoticed by his Trainer. "Do you…really think I'm worth it?"

Joey looked shocked. "What made you think that?"

"Well, you know…there's stronger Pokémon than me out there. Could've just thrown me out back into the ocean. Why me?"

Joey could see Magikarp's doubt in his eyes. He knew the reputation that Magikarp had within their species, how deplorable they were for battle. To a degree, he could relate why he was distressed about his potential. After all, he had his doubts of learning magic and getting stronger before. So using that experience, he decided to put in his two cents.

"So what about it? Go ahead and let them laugh at you."

"Huh…?"

"Because I know what it feels like to be looked down upon. To look like a dunce." He thought about his school days. "But the ones who laugh first end up tripping before reaching the finish line. If you think I'm giving up on you, you're dead wrong." His gaze grew serious, surprising and awing Magikarp. "Because just like how others helped me to get stronger, it's my turn to do the same. So no more moping, because we're gonna get stronger together. One battle at a time."

'(We will not be looked down upon…not by anyone!)' Mega Gyarados remembered vividly of Joey's words, causing him to stir upright again. '(Whoever hinders our path…)' In the back of his gaping maw, something bright was flaring. '(We will annihilate it!)'

"Mega Heracross, Brick Break!" With Dereece's command, Mega Heracross brandished his bulky arms as they glowed bright white. He lunged forward, barreling towards his foe with his fatal strength.

"Mega Gyarados…!" Joey yelled.

"(We…)" His eyes shrank, the heat inside his mouth becoming more intense with his rage. "(WILL DESTROY YOU!)" He gaped his maw wide as he expelled his resolve in one breath. A broiling stream of red-yellow fire expelled outwards, quickly expanding into a star-shape pattern that impeded Mega Heracross's path.

"(What…?!)"

He was too close and found himself swallowed in the intense heat. An explosion of fire engulfed the center of the battlefield as everyone watched with awe and shock at the surprise attack. Mega Heracross went careening across the battlefield, thudding once, then twice before sliding to a stop in front of Dereece.

"Mega Heracross, no!" Dereece fretted.

Joey looked stunned. "A Fire-type move?"

"That looked like Fire Blast." Professor Sycamore commented.

Joey turned towards him. "Fire Blast?"

He nodded. "Yes. Seems Mega Gyarados responded to the bond you two forged and learned a new move."

Joey turned towards, his surprise turning into resolve. "Nice job, Mega Gyarados."

The sides of Mega Gyarados' maw smoked until it diffused. "(We're far from through!)"

"Not good…" Dereece looked troubled as he saw Mega Heracross struggle to stand. "Hey, you okay?!"

"(Y-yeah…I think I am!)" Mega Heracross adjusted his foot, but he almost fell over.

'This is bad. Now we can't rely on Counter against Mega Gyarados. And we're barely hanging on.' Dereece balled his fists with resolve. "Then we're ending this now!"

"That's my line, buddy!" Joey retorted. "Mega Gyarados, Ice Fang!"

Mega Gyarados roared as his fangs once again were coated in thick icicles, four icy aura protrusions freezing the air as he barreled towards his adversary.

Dereece swiped his arm. "Pin Missile!" Mega Heracross showed no hesitation as he launched another wave of green comets from his arms.

The Pin Missile swarm barreled down onto Mega Gyarados, but to everyone's shock, the massive creature slammed his tail into the ground, hauling his huge body above the projectiles as they barraged the ground and lit up the area beneath in a bright green explosive field. Mega Gyarados bellowed as he sailed and arched downwards, his fangs poised to sink on impact.

'Not enough stamina for Counter. There's one choice left!' Dereece reached outwards. "Brick Break!"

Mega Heracross reared his left arm back as it glowed and punched skywards. Mega Gyarados came crashing down, his jaws clamping on the fist. A frosty gust expelled outwards around them as they were in a stalemate, neither side willing to give an edge.

And yet, they had the other where they wanted them.

Heat broiled in Mega Gyarados's closed maw whereas Mega Heracross pulled his spare arm back with claws retracting.

"Fire Blast!"

"Pin Missile!"

Mega Gyarados and Heracross roared with all their might, unleashing their respective attacks into the other's faces. Red-yellow flames met their target, as did the green projectiles. Flames and a bright green explosion mixed and imploded, creating a large-scale eruption of smoke that sent shockwaves throughout the corridor. Everyone covered up and tried to hold their ground.

A minute after watching the smoke dissipate, everyone looked ahead to watch the results. Two silhouettes faded into view, revealing Mega Gyarados and Mega Heracross lying on the ground. In another second, a rainbow sheen enveloped them, reverting them back to their base forms. Neither moved as they had swirls in their eyes.

Professor Sycamore composed himself and raised both arms up. "Both Mega Gyarados and Mega Heracross are unable to battle, therefore this match is a draw!"

Both Joey and Dereece immediately relaxed and headed towards the battlefield to chceck on their wounded partners.

"Gyarados, you good man?" Joey asked.

Gyarados managed to stir, barely opening his eyes as he cascaded towards his Trainer. "Been better…"

"Up we go." Dereece managed to provide adequate support for Heracross by propping his right arm over his left shoulder, using his left arm to hold Heracross's waist. As the large beetle was coming to, Dereece offered a sympathetic smile. "How you feeling?"

With a weak grin, he turned towards his Trainer. "Got any Honey…?"

Dereece chuckled. The other Pokémon hurried over to express their concerns and praises.

"(That was awesome, guys!)" Quilladin beamed.

"(Poviem. Naozaj ste nám to ukázali!)" Palpitoad admitted.

Garbodor belched.

"(You can breathe fire, too?!)" Larvesta chirped excitedly.

"(It's getting hot in here~!)" Tranquill chimed.

"(Dat be some fine battling. You two really are strong.)" Seel commended both sides.

Stunfisk flopped as close to a nod as possible. "(Yeah, had us on our toes…except me. I ain't got any.)" He laughed.

"(Thanks, guys.)" Heracross mumbled, still barely conscious. He then felt a weight on his horn and noticed Yanmega perched herself on him, looking down and smiling in cheers. Heracross couldn't help but smile back.

A ways away, Shiin was processing everything he had witnessed with his own eyes. To say he was befuddled would be an understatement. Did these Pokémon undergo an evolution and then revert back? From what he understood, evolutions were supposedly permanent. So why did this happen? Was it because of those special stones? An army of questions invaded his mind at the level of powers and potential dangers he was gonna have to sort out. 'Where do I begin with all this?'

The sound of clapping grasped everyone's attention. "Marvelous! Tres bien, indeed!" Professor Sycamore walked up to congratulate both parties. "You all did a fantastic job displaying the potential you have." He turned towards Joey. "Joey, you and Gyarados showed remarkable trust. In truth, Gyarados are not easy to tame, but it's clear from this battle you both put a lot of trust in each other to stay focused in Mega Evolution."

"Thanks, Professor." Joey thanked him and turned towards Gyarados, the two making assured eye contact.

He turned towards Dereece and Heracross. "And you two as well! It's clear you two have a strong understanding of the other. You knew how to effectively battle using Heracross's strong points, and then adapt to his change in battle dynamics upon Mega Evolution. Truly impressive."

"Thank you." Dereece grinned.

"Bien! Now that that's settled, let's get you all healed up and then I can ask the staff for some…" Just as Professor Sycamore was about to speak. He heard a notification on his watch go off. "Yes? What is it?"

The boys watched as the professor was in a conversation with a call with someone, presumably the receptionist.

"Yes, we just wrapped up on our business…oh!" His eyes widened. "Really? He's here? Yes, send him here right away, thank you." He ended the call and turned towards the group. "So sorry about that. Anyways, it looks like we'll be having another visitor here shortly."

"Another visitor?" Dereece parroted.

"Are there other new Trainers scheduled today?" Joey inquired.

"Not per se, but it is someone whom I'm acquainted with." The sound of the elevator dinging made him look back. "Ah, speak of Giratina."

The elevator doors opened, allowing someone to step out. All their eyes widened as they saw a familiar spiky black head and blue eyes that looked relaxed but also serious.

"Nic-senpai!?" Joey gasped.

"Yo." Nic responded.

'Nic's here? I thought he wasn't supposed to be back until much later?' Shiin worriedly thought.

Professor Sycamore offered another smile. "Well isn't today just full of familiar faces. What brings you here, Nic?"

"Hey, Professor. Been a while." Nic greeted. He approached him, his demeanor and serious expression telling the professor that he didn't come here on a whim. "I actually needed to talk to you about something."

---

Hours later, the sun was starting to wane past the tall buildings, the sky gradually turning from blue to a burning orange that illuminated the sky. Murkrow cawed at the call of evening's approach.

The Pularis family, Junior, and the two members of The Freaks were gathered in front of Professor Sycamore's building, ready to leave for their way home.

"Sure you boys had a good time today." Erza spoke with a warm smile.

Joey nodded. "You bet. Felt good to be back, but I think it's time we get back to business as always. Thanks for bringing us along."

"Yeah, it was actually a refreshing experience." Dereece chimed in. "How was the family?"

Vanessa smiled and chuckled. "They're doing well. Nic was out most of the time, but we were able to enjoy ourselves."

Erza nodded and hummed. "I must say that tasting Johanna's Oran Berry pies again makes you pine for this place even more. I almost feel sorry we can't bring them to our world to live."

"That's true, but Tan still has school. Plus it's safer here for them." Vanessa reasoned.

They heard the doors open to the lab and watched Nic and Professor Sycamore walk out, their business wrapped up.

"How did it go? You got everything sorted out?" Erza asked her husband.

"Yeah, that should be everything." Nic turned towards the professor. "Thanks again, Sycamore."

"It's nothing, really. I'm looking forward to it." He turned towards the others. "You all have a safe trip home, alright?"

"We will, thanks for your support." Erza thanked.

"We'll be sure to come by again." Vanessa reasoned.

Nic turned towards his peers. "So, ready?"

"Ready! It's Friday night movie and pizza night, so we gotta get bakin' as soon as we get back." Joey exclaimed.

Junior raised his arms. "(Yay! Home!)"

"Yes. We should get back to the guild." Erza suggested.

Nic understood and reached his arm out. A portal appeared in front of them, putting them in front of their guild hall. "See y'around." With a simple wave, Nic filed through, with Erza, Vanessa, Joey, Dereece, and a still camouflaged Shin hoping through at the last possible second. Once on the other side, Nic made eye contact with Professor Sycamore before the portal closed.

Now alone once more, the professor was left to let the silent notion sink in. His gaze turned towards the sky, his hands in his pockets and an expectant smile on his face.

"Haha…I'm looking forward to what I'll be seeing."

---

Dusk had fallen back in the sanctity of Magnolia. With the errands and aforementioned business done for the day, Nic, Erza, and the two members of The Freaks decided to retire for the evening. While Joey and Dereece were tending their festivities after a long day, Nic, Erza, and Vanessa to head to their respective homes.

As for Shiin, he had taken immediate liberties to write down everything that he had seen, down to the very small details. His experience in Lumiose City; its architecture, it's locations, it's economy, even the interactions he's seen with people and Pokémon. All of it went into writing.

However, the most important aspect of his writing was what he had witnessed: The Mega Evolution battle. Noting how Heracross and Gyarados not only changed appearances, but also grew stronger. He even noted how Joey's Gyarados learned a new and powerful attack.

After an extensive and arduous report, he fought through his aching hand's pain to turn to the page where he placed the camera's memory chip. 'What happened before in that dimension didn't count. But this…' He watched the chip and the closed letter vanish on the page, the contents being sent to the Pergrande Kingdom, including all the pictures he's taken. '…is all strict business.'

He now had one more thing to send. He reached over, holding up a diamond lacrima containing the PokéDex that he had acquired earlier. The lacrima kept it safely contained and in prestige condition just like how he took it.

'A digital encyclopedia similar to Archive Magic. And it contains the details of all the known Pokémon that exist.' To him, this was just the thing that the government needed to further their understanding of these creatures.

He placed the lacrima atop the page, watching as the PokéDex faded into blue particles and then vanishing for good.

With his mission complete for the day, a wave of fatigue suddenly hit the Pergrande Kingdom associate. He was too exhausted to do anything else, so he turned towards the bed, but forgot something important as well.

"Free, Free." Butterfree chimed.

"Yes, I'm well. Don't concern over me." He assured.

Butterfree tilted his head. "Free?"

"I was…sightseeing today, that's all." It wasn't a lie, but at the same time, he was too exhausted to press the matter further. Wanting to head to bed, he turned towards the windows and opened them. "You should get some rest. I'm certain we'll have yet another long day ahead of us tomorrow."

"Free, Free. Free!" Butterfree chirped happily before fluttering through the window back towards the forest.

Shiin watched his…associate, fly off, blissfully unaware of the human's frantic mind only exhausting him further as he closed his window. And this time, he made sure it was locked.

He undid his garments and made way under the bedsheets. It could've been the long exhaustion of walking through an unknown extraterrestrial city, but he couldn't find it in him to move anymore. Instead, he mentally tracked everything as sleep was starting to overcome him.

'I never realized until today that a stable human and Pokémon society could exist.' Thought of the people and Pokémon he's seen came to mind. 'What struggles did humans have to go through in a magic-less world with these things? And that Mega Evolution…'

He recalled the battle vividly, the chills still running down his spine at how determined both sides were.

'The power to bring out a Pokémon's potential that even magic cannot. If these otherworldly Trainers have such power in their hands…could our world's balance and magical society be…?'

Before his thoughts could finish, he succumbed to sleep.

---

In the Pularis household, Nic and Erza laid in bed. The day's events left them more than a little exhausted. Nic more so because of the important business that he had to speak with certain individuals. Rather than wanting to think about that, he turned towards his wife, who was on her side and staring at him. "What is it?"

"Nothing. We had a good day, didn't we?" She responded with a smile.

Nic smiled back. "Yeah, you can say that again."

"It looked like the boys had fun being back. We really should visit Kalos more often. Sure that Tan and the others would love to see you more."

Nic recalled how excited Tan was seeing him when he came back around supper. It was a good time for them all to be together and catch up on things they missed out on. Nic had to admit it, it felt cathartic to be surrounded by people that cared for him, people that were willing to support him, no matter how much distance covered them. The fact that for a time he was taking those bonds for granted to train and make himself stronger only piled on the guilt he had felt since that S-Class quest. Bit-by-bit, day-by-day, he was making efforts to focus on those around him.

Erza had taken a notice of this behavior as well. It wasn't so long ago that things felt so smooth between them, but since The Crossing and the numerous people and Pokémon that challenged them, waves were starting to rock were venture, testing how they'd manage the change in tides. So much has happened that she was worried about Nic, who was never as socially adept compared to her. Their struggles with trusting people back in Alola only made matters worse, and the battle against Neuro seemed to have only pulled Nic further away from her. It saddened and worried the scarlet-haired knight. But since the Gremlin incident, it seemed like Nic had smoothed himself out. In fact, he was more active than she could have imagined.

It was strange, seeing Nic make conversations and exchange information with his guildmates. Of course she wasn't opposed to this new dynamic either since he's been to the Magic Library a lot and tinkering with some new tactics in their jobs. Suppose the best way to describe Nic was that he kept her guessing. At least it was never boring anymore.

Having just finished more materials, the stack of books regarding Earthland culture and fauna laid on his nightstand. Erza partook as well, surprised at the contents her husband was reading. Granted they weren't anything like her 'special books' that she liked to read, but some new information never hurt.

With their naked upper bodies covered by their blanket, the two stared into each other's eyes, as though looking at works of art that was just to them alone.

Erza reached over, caressing Nic's cheek, surprising him. "Erza?"

"I'm proud of you." She confessed.

Though surprised, a sense of happiness washed over Nic as he put his hand over hers. "Yeah, same here."

"Hope those preparations are worth it, Mr. Champion. I'll be sure to take that spot once we win the games." Erza teased.

Nic's face scrunched with a mixture of embarrassment and growing adrenaline. "And how do you plan on doing that?"

Erza didn't say anything. Instead she moved beneath the seats and mounted Nic. Her huge breasts pressed against his chest, their eyes never leaving the other. "Well…you'll just have to watch and see for yourself."

Nic smirked. "Looking forward to it."

"You know what I'm looking forward to?"

"What?" Nic's answer came in the form of a kiss that he wasn't prepared for. After a second, he closed his eyes and kissed back. The two parted long enough to share an impish chuckle before Erza clutched Nic's head, diving back in for more excitement.

Their bedroom stirred with the sounds of young intimacy late into the night.

---

Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Hopefully the last thing was enough to give you the fuzzies that this special day implies.

Anyways, I intended to have this done sooner, but alas things got away from me and I ended up finishing the chapter on a PTO day from work. Striking coincidence, right? While this didn't have any relation to Duncan, it did have relevance to Joey and Dereece as I figured diving into Lumiose City would help shed light on some familiar places, their families, and reuniting with familiar faces like Professor Sycamore.

And now Joey and Dereece have Mega Evolution in their arsenal. On top of that, I figured having Gyarados learn Fire Blast would be of great benefit against Grass and Bug-types.

Though, Shiin also got something out of this venture. I figured it'd be imperative to have him appear at least once in PokéEarth so he could see and experience things for himself.

Now it's time for what everyone has been waiting for. Next chapter will be the start of the X793 Grand Magic Games Arc! I've got big plans to keep it lively and at the same time familiar, si stay tuned for what's to come!

Please leave your thoughts in a review! Much appreciated and thanks!