Re:Rise of Team Neos

If you give a monkey a typewriter can it write Shakespeare?

Yeah, screw the old introduction, we're changing this up for the better! What does that mean exactly? It's the very reason I added the "Re" to the title. I'll be the first to admit, Rise of Team Neos is loooong. In fact, it's longer than I ever intended it to be... which is not a bad thing, it just means I have to edit my plans for it. Origionally, Volume 1 was only suposed to be 50 chapters or so. Considering I just finished Chapter 29 and have yet to even reach the half way point gives you guys an idea of what we have going for us.

With the rebirth of PokeCharms, I get to fix the miscalculation I made almost 18 months ago. I'm scrapping the Preface completely and will reorganize the Prologue as the first chapter of Volume 3. Yes, this fic really will be that long! I never do anything half assed and I never quit a project I start. That's why I'm calling a five year plan now and I hope I can stick to it >>;

...Just please don't kill me if I'm still writing in 2016 ^^;

Unless you're new to this fic, you've all read Chapters 1-28 already, but here they are as a refresher if you need one. They remain unchanged save for the edits to 1-22 that Phoenix so kindly provided me. If you want to leave me any comments after a chapter or wait until the new one that's up to you, I'm always open. Now then, I think I've kept my ever loyal fans waiting long enough! Next post anyway ^_^

Last edited by Psycho Monkey on Mon Jun 21, 2010 9:53 pm, edited 1 time in total.

*insert horror here*

If it weren't for you reminding me how long Neos was, I wouldn't have remember how it had begun. With your commitment and planning have you ever considered writing a Pyscho-book? And why, despite you only naming three volumes, do I expect this to have five?

I hope to read Neos again, it certainly does seem to be very much an ebodiment of you.

Warning: The following contains scenes of blood, gore, language, material that may be offensive, and may not be suitable for some readers. You have been warned


The Rise of Team Neos


Volume 1: A Changing World

Chapter 1: Enter The Monkeys

One was eighteen, had spiky black hair, blue eyes, and dressed in lng black pants, black boots, black fingerless gloves, and alternated between a black T-shirt or longsleeved shirt of the same color depending on the season. The other was a monkey with a flaming mane and unusual gold fur for a species that normally had brown fur or red for the shiny variety. Both were freaks of nature. This is their story...

“Prepare yourself!” I shouted lunging at my Infernape with my hands pointed so that I would jab him with my fingertips. Axel dodged my first two strikes but I was able to get him with a surprise kick. Before I could pull my leg away, Axel grabbed my shin in both arms and threw me to the ground where I made a crunch in the newly fallen snow. The Flame Pokémon lifted his leg for a stomp but I rolled to the side and got back up to my feet. After wiping some snow off my black long-sleeved shirt, I took the Repulse the Monkey stance with my left arm outward and my right arm closer to my body. My legs were spread so that my left foot was in front and my right leg in the back. Although Axel knows this stance, he still came at me with a punch. Fool. I grabbed his punching arm in my outstretched left hand, took a step back on my left foot while pulling the monkey in, and did a palm strike to his chest with my free hand. To my surprise Axel used the momentum to lift his legs off the ground and kick me in the chest with both causing us both to land in the snow.

“Not bad.” I said at last. “You really surprised me with that last move.” I complemented.

“Well I had to do something to counter Repulse the Monkey. Why do you insist on that move anyway?” he asked.

“Because you’re a monkey.” I said straightforwardly.

“Touché.” Axel responded.

“Come. We have a boat to catch.” I said getting up. It wasn’t a long walk back to Snowpoint City from Acuity Lakefront where we had been sparring, but I didn’t want to miss the boat. It was a lot faster and safer getting to Veilstone City in this manner than travelling through Mt. Coronet in the dead of winter. I didn’t want to find out the hard way that the legend ‘Articuno appears to doomed people in the frozen mountains’ is true. I got to the dock and presented my ticket to the sailor standing guard at the ramp.

“Have a nice trip.” was all he had to say. I stood on the deck and leaned against a railing to watch the shore. After about ten minutes the ramp was pulled away and the ship started moving. There was a crackle at the speaker.

“This is your captain speaking.” came an old but strong voice. “We will be arriving in Veilstone City in about a week so make yourselves comfortable. I hope you enjoy your stay.” The speakers went silent after another crackle.

“WAAAAAHHHH!!!!” cried a little girl. Based on her small height, my guess is she’s age 12 or 13. “This isn’t the boat to the Resort Area!? I wanted to go to the Ribbon Syndicate!” she wailed.

“Pipe down!” bellowed a brawny sailor. “It’s too late to turn around now, so you’ll have to make due with what you’ve got. I think we should battle if you got Pokémon.” The girl stuck her tongue out at the sailor with a childish ‘mmnn’ sound.

“My Pokémon are only for show, not battle.” she said. If she won’t then I will. I love the thrill of battle.

“I’ll battle you.” I said stepping forward. The sailor turned his thick head to me. He looked me and Axel over to see if we were worth his time before getting a sly grin on his face. I guess we passed.

“Sure, I’ll take you on. I think I could have some fun with you boy.” he said pulling out a red and white sphere. From it came a tall pink Pokémon with a scaly tan belly, a stupid look on its tan face, and a large grey spiked shell for a tail.

“Uhuh! No way am I fighting a Slowbro. Pick someone else.” declared Axel. I couldn’t really blame him. Slowbro can best both Fire and Fighting Types one way or another. No matter, I had a better idea on who I was using. I readied a GreatBall and sent out the Snover I caught last week. The Pokémon looked like a snow covered evergreen with its legs a wood brown color, tree green hands and tail, and a bright white head. The moment he appeared, the clear sky was covered in white clouds. At the same time clumps of ice began falling from the sky.

“Start us off with Mist Snover!” I called. The Frost Tree Pokémon stretched out his hands pulling together the water vapor in the already cold air to create a fine mist around himself and Slowbro.

“Dammit, I can’t see anything!” complained the sailor. “Slowbro!  Hit it with Water Gun!” Slowbro looked to the side like it was distracted; then a gear must have turned in its head because it decided to comply with its trainer’s command. Slowbro opened its mouth wide shooting a powerful stream of water at Snover, who just shook the attack off as a refreshing bath. A golf ball sized chunk of ice fell from the sky and hit Slowbro in the head. The Hermit Crab Pokémon didn’t even seem to notice.

“Never mind that. Snover! Razor Leaf!” Several blade edged leaves fell from the cone on Snover’s head and made their way toward Slowbro. Slowbro put its hands over its head crying out in pain having finally noticed the strike from hail. It then crossed its arms infront of itself to block the leaves that were no longer coming. I couldn’t help but to laugh at this situation. Another chunk of hail hit Slowbro, this one smaller than before.

“He’s makin’ a fool of you Slowbro! Teach ‘im a lesson with Headbutt!” ordered the sailor. Slowbro lumbered over to Snover and smashed his head into the Frost Tree Pokémon’s. Once again Slowbro had a delayed reaction to the hail strike.

“Now Snover! Powder Snow!” I called. Snover waved his arms and summoned the hail storm into a steady blast at the Hermit Crab Pokémon freezing it solid. “Looks like the battle’s over. If you don’t have an Ice Heal for Slowbro, you can use one of mine.” I offered.

“No thank you. I’ll take care of this myself. I don’t need your pity.” he said bitterly. The sailor called back his popsicle Pokémon and went inside the ship. I hope Slowbro will be alright. Suddenly I heard clapping and cheering all around me. I guess our battle drew some attention. As usual I was too focused to notice the crowd.

“Yeah Onii-chan!” cheered the little girl from earlier. What the hell? Onii-chan?
***********************

What the? Over already? Pfff. I forgot how short the early chapters were.

Last edited by Psycho Monkey on Tue Jun 22, 2010 9:23 pm, edited 1 time in total.

*insert horror here*

If it weren't for you reminding me how long Neos was, I wouldn't have remember how it had begun. With your commitment and planning have you ever considered writing a Pyscho-book? And why, despite you only naming three volumes, do I expect this to have five?

I hope to read Neos again, it certainly does seem to be very much an ebodiment of you.

Technically, this IS the Psycho book. 230 some pages on MS word already, with the end five years away (I hope...). Trust me though, it will be only three volumes of as of yet undetermined number of chapters. Pretty much whenever a major world changing event occurs will be a new Volume.

And one more thing. Unless something happens that makes my mind change, this fic will not include Gen V or up just because it will be at least another year before the games are out in English and that is just too much maintainance for me. But like I said, I might change my mind. Now I better shut up and post the next short chapter already.


Chapter 2: Onii-chan

“You were great Onii-chan!” the girl squealed glomping me. Ok, why is this girl calling me Onii-chan? I don’t know her, she doesn’t know me, I’m getting hugged, this is weird, I’m gonna stop ranting now…

I pried my arms free of this kid’s grip and pulled her off of me. “Why are you hugging me and calling me Onii-chan?” I inquired. The girl looked up at me with her enormous brown eyes. The top of her head only came half way up my chest. She had mostly brown hair except for her bangs which were died pink. I think.

“Wow! You’re so much taller up close.” she said getting on her tippy-toes and stretching her arm to the tip of my spiky hair. “*squee* And look at your Infernape! I’ve never seen this color before, and I’ve lived in Sinnoh my whole life!”

“Yeah, he’s a freak of nature like me. Now could you please answer my question?” I begged even putting my hands together.

“Oh, sorry. It’s because I’m a really, really, really, [about 10 more reallys later] big fan of yours. Your battle just now was really, really, [not this again] amazing!” she said excitedly. I raised an eyebrow at this comment. I think I’m confused, but I’m too confused to notice.

“Brian’s got a stalker! Brian’s got a stalker!” Axel taunted while dancing around like a fool with his hands on his hips and his legs going every which way.

“She’s not a stalker.” I told him. Then I turned to her. “You’re not a stalker are you?” I asked in a worried tone. She gave me a strange look.

“Did Onii-chan just talk to his Infernape?” she asked. Does this girl have ADD or something? “And how can I be a stalker if I just met Onii-chan?”

“That’s what I thought. And yes, I did just talk to Axel. He and I understand eachother perfectly after travelling together for so long. Back on the more pressing issue, how are you a fangirl if you don’t even know me?”

“Because Onii-chan defended me from the meany sailor and I really, really, [definitely ADD] appreciate it!” she said in almost one breath. I shook my head.

“You realize that sailors are grumpy 90% of the time and always looking for a fight with anyone that rubs them the wrong way? All I did was give the guy what he wanted; helping a youngling just happened to be a coincidence.” I explained.

“I’m not a youngling! I’ll have Onii-chan know that I’m fifteen!” she shouted. No way! Someone this small is actually three years younger than me? I know girls are usually shorter than guys, but damn! She’s totally puny!

“First off, quit calling me Onii-chan, it’s annoying. The name’s Brian, and as I already said, that crazy monkey over there is Axel.” I introduced. “Yo!” Axel interrupted waving. “Secondly, I’m eighteen so you’re still a youngling in my book.”

“I’m Madison, but Onii-chan can call me Madi-kun.” she said cheerfully with complete disregard with what I just said. I closed my eyes and reached my right hand to my left waist and drew an invisible nonexistent katana. I swerved my wrist so that the would-be blade faced my chest followed by me slamming my fist into myself. Note to self: obtain a real sword.

I took a deep breath to prepare for what had to be done. “Madison, I’m only going to say this once so clean out your ears and pay attention.” I said calmly. “Enough with the Onii-crap! B-R-I-A-N! Pronounced Bry-en! If you must address me, call me by that name! No fancy titles or nicknames, got it?” I said not so calmly. More like boarder line rip your throat out. Dammit all, she’s starting to cry.

“You don’t have to be so mean about it!” she cried before running off. I sighed. Maybe I was a bit over the top, but I can only be pushed so far with annoyance. Great, now I have to apologize. I hate apologizing. Worst part is now I have to find her. Let’s see, if I was a pissed off teenage girl, where would I be?

“I’ve got it!” I said out loud snapping my fingers. “In my room eating a tub of ice cream while watching a chick flick.” I refuse to acknowledge where that information came from. “Come Axel. We must find Madison and *shudders* apologize.”

Finding her room was probably the hardest part. It’s like finding a needle in a haystack or as Axel said that was rather creepy, “A Skitty on a Wailord.” I went down to the kitchen to ask if they had given any ice cream to a small girl with pink bangs in the past half hour, but alas. If this search keeps up I’ll probably lose what little sanity I actually posses. Well I do have a week before the ship gets to Veilstone, I’m sure I’ll run into her by then. If not, meh, I’m sure I’ve pissed off other people in my years as a trainer.

Now my search shifted to finding my room. A hell of a lot easier considering the room number was written on my ticket. On my way I saw two guys dressed in whitish grey wearing mid-shin high boots, hakama pants, gloves, and long sleeved shirt with a hood on it. On their chest was a silver X with red dots in the upper cross, grey dots in the lower cross and blue dots between the two crosses. They had some random guy pinned against a wall.

“We know you’re with Team Galactic, so why don’t you spill it already. What are you doing on this ship?” one of them asked.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’ve never done anything wrong. I’m innocent, I swear.” the guy pleaded in a shaky voice. “Hey! You! You’ve gotta help me, please!” he begged when he saw me walk by.

“You’d best keep walking, boy.” warned the other hooded figure. I turned to look him in the eye.

“I can’t do that.” I said defiantly. “You’re blocking my room. Take it somewhere else.”

“Hmph. Smart move. Allow us to get out of your way then.” said the first one. He grabbed the so called Galactic and dragged him down the hall kicking and screaming. Whether the guy was with Team Galactic or not, it wasn’t my place to get involved. Before I could swipe the ticket through the card slot on the door handle, the door across the hall opened. Coming out was none other than Madison.

“Madison! Brian has something he wants to say to you!” blurted Axel.

“She can’t understand a word you’re saying nimrod!” I scolded. Our bickering did manage to get her attention.

“Onii- I mean Brian. What are you doing here?” she asked indifferently looking away.

“Dis is my room.” I responded stupidly pointing behind me.

“Well if that’s all, then I’m getting more ice cream.” she said turning down the hall.

“Wait!” I called. “I’m s-s-si-ar-ar-eeeeeee.” Madison looked at me in confusion. Ok, let’s try this again. “We’re sorry!” I said quick enough to get it out of my mouth but tangible enough to be understood. I drove the point across by bowing.

“I’ll forgive you on one condition.” Madison said sternly while pointing at me. “Please train me!” she said almost as quickly as I apologized if not quicker while putting her hands together.

“What?” I asked.

“You are such an amazing and powerful trainer. I completely suck. I want to participate in contests and win ribbons, but because my Pokémon are so weak, they don’t know many moves. As they get stronger they’ll learn more moves giving me more variety and combinations to pick from.” Madison explained.

“Fine. It’s not like I have anything better to do for the next seven days. We start first thing tomorrow.” I said.

“Yes Onii-sensei!” she cheered saluting me. *sigh* What have I gotten myself into now?
***********************

I've missed Madison. She was fun to write for. I also forgot how much of a jerkass Brian was back in the day.

Chapter 3: Those Who Can’t Teach

“Madison. Oh Madison. Wakey, wakey.” I cooed over her sleeping body the following morning. She made no response, not even a yawn. An evil grin came across my face. “This is going to amuse me a lot more than it will amuse you.” I said pulling a Pokeball from my side. Coming out of the ball was an orange furred otter Pokémon with two tails and a flotation ring around its neck.

“Buizel. Water Gun.” I said pointing to the sleeping girl. Buizel did as told spewing a stream of water at Madison.

“WAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!!!” she screamed when the cold water hit her. I put my left hand to my mouth trying to contain my laughter. Ah, sweet revenge. Madison looked around in a panic trying to figure out what just happened. She saw me, Axel, and Buizel, then realizing she was soaked, and put 2 and 2 together. “Did you do this Onii-sensei?” she asked angrily while water dripped from her short brown hair and pink bangs.

“Yup!” I said proudly. “You wanted me to train you, so we’re doing it on my terms. I wasn’t about to let you sleep away your first day.” Madison looked over at the clock sitting on the stand next to her wet bed.

“WAAAAAHH!!!” she screamed noticing it read 6:10am. “Are you serious? The sun isn’t even awake yet.” she complained.

“Six is a good time to wake up. It gives you a good two hours for each Pokémon, along with ample time for rest and food.” I said pacing across the floor with my arms crossed. Then I turned to face my trainee. “Now unless you want hypothermia, I suggest you get changed and dried off. No use going back to sleep in that wet bed. Meet me outside your door in five minutes. I’m sending Axel in if you’re late.” I called back Buizel and walked out of the room with Axel. Once the door was closed, I started laughing unable to contain it any more.

Exactly five minutes later Madison came out wearing what could easily be considered a purple Sailor Moon cosplay. The skirt was short enough that I could see the black (or maybe just a dark color) bike shorts underneath. At least she has some decency. I led her to the deck of the ship to take advantage of the open space. “Now, show me what I’m working with.” I told her when we got outside. Immediately I regretted coming out because of how cold it was.

“Yes Onii-sensei!” Madison said enthusiastically pulling out six Pokeballs covered in stickers. Released from them came a Mime Jr., a Mantyke, a Pachirisu, a Buneary, a Cherubi, and a Cherim. I scanned the newcomers with my Pokedex to gage their strength. Madison was right, they are pretty weak, and yet they all have diverse and higher leveled move sets already. All except Cherim that is. So says she, her parents are breeders and that Cherim was theirs. Said Cherim is also the mother of Cherubi. All her other Pokémon are the result of breeding, hence their already decent move sets.

“Ok, this is how we’re going to work this.” I pulled a piece of paper conveniently located in my pocket along with a conveniently found pen. I began doodling up a little chart and passed it to Madison. “This is today’s schedule and sparring matches.” I said.

“What do you mean no breakfast until 8:00!? And what are all these names?” she complained. I snatched the paper back and overlooked it again.

“These are the names of your Pokémon, Fool.” I said giving the list back.

“No they’re not.” Madison insisted.

I pointed to the pink clown looking Pokémon. “Mime Jr.”

“Mimi.” she said like she was correcting me. I cocked my eyebrow.

“Mantyke.” I said moving my finger down the line.

“Maki.”

“Pachirisu.”

“Chuchu.”

“Buneary.”

“Fluffy.”

“Cherubi.”

“Ichi.”

“Cherim.” I said almost out of breath. What nickname did see give this one I wonder?

“Well ok, that’s what Mommy and Daddy named her.” she admit. *face palm*

“Holy shit, she’s stupid.” Axel said in complete disbelief. I shook my head with my hand over my eyes.

“Are you feeling alright Onii-sensei?” Madison inquired bending sideways looking up at me with her arms crossed behind her back.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” I said regaining my composure. “I just didn’t realize how much of a pain this would be.” Emphasis on ‘pain’. I revised the names on the schedule so my seemingly brain-dead apprentice could understand it. “First sparring match will be against Fluffy and Chuchu. Begin!” I declared.

“Question!” Madison shouted raising her hand. “Why do my Pokémon have to fight eachother?”

“Because mine are too strong, they’d rape the shit out of yours.” I said bluntly.

“Aaaahhhhhhh!! Naughty words!” she screamed holding her ears. Shameful.

“Are you sure you’re fifteen? Regardless, if your Pokémon spar with eachother, then you can get more accomplished in a shorter period of time. What you do is have one act like a wild Pokémon to build independence, while you give commands to the other like you normally would. After awhile, you’d switch off to give each Pokémon equal time.” I explained. “And go!”

“Chuchu! A- Umm… Use… hmmm…” Madison stared at her Pokémon like she was thinking.

“Too slow! Use Pound Fluffy!” I commanded. The Buneary reluctantly did as told by smacking its fist into Chuchu.

“Hey! I wasn’t ready! And besides, you said Fluffy was going to be wild! Why did you take command?” Madison complained.

“Because you were slow. You must be able to make split second decisions in combat, no time to think. A Pokémon is only as strong as its trainer, and you are weak.” I said lowering my voice. “Those words I have lived by since I first became a trainer, and it will be those words that you will live by. You, Madison, must become stronger. Only then will your Pokémon be able to reach their full potential. Understood?”

“Yes Onii-sensei!” Madison said saluting me.

“Enough with the Onii-crap already. Anyway, get back to training.” I said leaning back against the wall next to the door leading to the inner ship. Watching Madison battle I’ve got to say, she’s a pretty smart fighter and a good listener to what I tell her.

“Onii-sensei! What happened to Fluffy?” she cried. Did I say good listener? I meant selective hearing.

“Relax, she’s only fainted. Consider it a nap when Pokémon can’t battle anymore.” I explained. “Take a break, now is time to feed.”

I could have combined Chapter's three and four, but meh.

Chapter 4: One Week of Stupidity

I kicked back and laid in my bed with my hands behind my head. The first day with Madison was finally over. Despite being her first time, she did exactly as I told her and her performance was spectacular. Aw I hope no one takes that sentence out of context. I meant her training.

Before I had a chance to settle in for bed there was a knock at my door. What now? I jumped out of bed and walked over to the door. There in the doorway stood the girl who has potentially shaved a year or two off my life with her annoyance wearing fuchsia pajamas.

“Onii-chan can I sleep with you?” Madison asked. My eyes were wide and twitching at the same time if that’s even possible. I think I even swallowed my tongue.

“What!?” I questioned in a deep throaty voice, the result of having just swallowed my tongue and my throat collapsing.

“My bed is still wet from this morning, so can I?” she persisted. I sighed and backed away from the doorway inviting her in. It was my fault her bed was wet after all.

“Aside from teaching you the ways of Pokémon training it seems I must also teach you the ways of men as well.” I said. “Never, I’ll repeat, never knock on a man’s door and ask to sleep with him. It doesn’t matter who it is, don’t do it. In the world of adults that could be taken the wrong way. That goes double if it’s night or the guy’s birthday. Just… no.” I explained. “You’re lucky on two counts, my birthday is February 6th, and you’re too young for me.”

“I don’t understand.” Madison said in confusion.

“Well I ain’t going into any more detail. Just don’t do that again m’kay.” I said grabbing my backpack and tapping the sleeping Axel with my foot to get his attention. “You can have my bed, we’ll sleep on the floor of your room. Sharing a room is where I draw the line.” I walked down the hall and claimed the floor under the alarm clock.
--------------------

“It’s time for your training Madison.” I said standing over her bed again the next morning. Like yesterday she wasn’t getting up. I wasn’t about to soak this bed, but I’m a monkey with many tricks. “Axel, you grab the top I’ll grab the bottom.” I said. We stood at our ends of the bed and put out hands under the mattress. “On three. THREE!” Together we flipped the mattress and Madison, on the floor.

“Onii-sensei that isn’t funny!” Madison screamed crawling out from under the mattress.

“Then stop sleeping in and wake up when I tell you to.” I scolded. Actually I hope she sleeps in everyday, this is fun. “Anyway, I was doing some thinking last night after we traded rooms and I decided your Pokémon aren’t the only ones who need some training.” I said pulling out a Pokeball. “Meet Riolu!” A small blue Pokémon with a dog like face, black legs, a black stripe going across his red eyes ending off in weird ear-like appendages, and metal plates on the back of his hands appeared in a red flash of light.

Madison’s face immediately lit up. “He’s so cute!” she squealed running over to Riolu to give him a hug.

“NO!” Axel and I shouted in unison. I wrapped my hands tightly around Madison’s waist while Axel picked up the small Pokémon. “Riolu is only a few weeks old and is still very defensive. When Riolu first hatched, I went over to introduce myself to him. I almost lost the ability to have offspring after a single punch. Axel hit him with a Mach Punch and Riolu was able to endure the hit. Right now Axel and I are the only ones Riolu respects or trusts because we defeated him. Let him get used to you before you get yourself hurt.” I explained.

“Umm Onii-chan. Can you put me down?” Madison asked. I hadn’t noticed before, but the girl’s feet were several inches off the ground. “Damn you’re light.” I said lowering her. Axel did the same with Riolu who looked more confused than pissed off.

Training commenced as it did the day before, only this time Riolu was added to the mix so that he could get some combat experience as well. Although the youngest one in the group, Riolu managed to hold his own surprisingly well. His exceptional speed and strength allowed him to defeat Maki, but Mimi was able to take out the young Emanation Pokémon. I had to explain to the disappointed little warrior that losing is all part of getting stronger. Plus being so young his abilities weren’t fully developed yet.
----------------------

I was woken up with a violent kick to the ribs. “Onii-sensei! Oni-sensei! Come on, after all those times of meanly waking me up, here you are sleeping!” Madison whined crouching next to my sleeping bag. I opened my right eye and glared at her.

“Do you realize we’ll be in Veilstone Harbor in-” I sat up and looked at the clock. It read 6:22am. “six or seven hours.” I continued. “I told you last night, your training’s over. Take today off or continue what I taught you, it’s up to you. Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going back to sleep.” I said laying back down on my pillow on the floor. I never bothered seeing if the bed ever dried, nor did Madison and I switch our rooms back.

“I know that, I know that! But Onii-sensei needs to come outside! Quickly, quickly!” she cheered like a kid on Christmas. I grumbled and sat up again.

“Fine, but you’re going to have to step outside. You may have noticed I’m not wearing a shirt right now. I’m not wearing anything else under this sleeping bag either, so unless you want your virgin mind scarred for life, get the hell out.” I said pointing to the door. Madison’s brown eyes widened to a larger size than they already were and her face turned bright red. She quickly ran outside and closed the door behind her.

“You liar. You’ve still got your boxers on.” Axel laughed before I even crawled out of my sleeping bag. He knew me too well. “Meh.” was all I responded with as I starting to get dressed.

“What did you want Madison?” I inquired walking out of the room with my Infenape.

“Outside! Outside! Quickly Onii-sensei!” she said in excitement grabbing me by the arm and dragging me on the deck which was covered in a thin layer of white. Snowflakes fell from the sky melting on contact with my warm body. “It’s snowing!” the young girl squealed gleefully. I’ve gotta admit, it was pretty cool. I hate the cold with a passion, but snow was something I could tolerate. It actually felt warmer when it snowed because the light reflected off the white substance. I started laughing when Madison laid on the deck and began making snow angels. Sweet relaxation.
-----------------------

Madison seemed to disappear after breakfast. She was kind of acting funny, I wonder what was up.

“Onii-chan!” Well so much for peace and quiet. She came walking up to me with her arms behind her back like she was hiding something. How suspicious.

“Watch out, it’s a wedding ring!” Axel teased.

“If it is, burn me alive. Then run like hell.” I told. Now my apprentice stood in front of me with her hands still behind her back.

“Whacha hiding?” I asked innocently.

“Well I wanted to thank you for training me so please take this as a token of my appreciation.” she said producing a grey disc. She held it in front of her waiting for me to take it. I reached out and took it. The disc was inscribed with the number 10. “That’s TM10 Hidden Power.” said Madison. Wait a minute! She had TMs all this time that she could have used to supplement her Pokémon's moves with? You know what, I’m not even going to ask. If I knew the answer I’d probably throw myself off the side of the ship.

“You look concerned Onii-chan. Don’t worry, you can have it. I have fifty TMs anyway, one less isn’t going to hurt.” she said completely unaware of what she had just done. I am a man of my word.

“If you need me, I’m jumping overboard.” I said flatly turning to go outside. I walked over the snow covered deck and leaned against a railing.

“You wouldn’t!” Axel yelled in disbelief. I turned to the golden monkey with a ‘you have got to be kidding me’ look.

“How long have you known me, Axel? I’m not emo, I just wanted some fresh air and to enjoy the view.” I said. I looked back over the edge and saw what looked like a human body float past. “SHIT!” I screamed falling on my ass.

“Brian! You ok?” my Infernape asked pulling me back to my feet. I looked down the side of the boat where the body had presumable come from. Standing over the edge were the guys dressed in grey from before. It didn’t take long for me to piece together that the body that just floated past was the “Galactic” they were harassing that day. My heart felt like it was about to pop out of my chest. Then came the worst part, they saw me and came running over.

Chapter 5: Team Neos

“What did you see? What did you see!?” one of the hooded men interrogated. I was unable to answer, still in shock from the dead body I had seen float past. “Answer dammit!” he barked punching me in the face sending me to the ground.

“You’ll pay for that!” Axel said furiously getting in fight position.

“Stand down Axel.” I ordered calmly. I got back on my feet wiping my mouth with the back of my gloved hand. There wasn’t any noticeable blood on the black fabric. Yet anyway. I turned to face my attackers. “The correct answer to your question, the one you want to hear, is ‘Nothing. Nothing at all.’ Or if you guys are more into scare tactics ‘N-nu-nothin’ suh.’ But I find the truth to be the more interesting route, so I’m gonna have to say that I saw the dead body of the guy you were using as a punching bag the other day float by the ship just now.” I said in spiteful sarcasm.

“You should have just lied.” The other guy said venomously. “Then we wouldn’t have to kill you. Break his bones Tauros!” he commanded sending out a 200lb bull covered in unkempt brown hair with three whip-like tails and horns that could pierce bone. The bull gave an angry moo, the air coming out of his nostrils and mouth turned to steam in the cold winter’s air.

“Rip his flesh Feraligatr!” the other joined in releasing a hulking blue reptile with plates running up its arms, knees, and tail. Three giant three pronged spikes ran down the crocodilian’s back. The beast opened its mouth with a roar showing off row upon row of sharp jagged teeth that could tear flesh from bone. Its savage yellow eyes stared us down like we were prey.

“What lovely commands you give when you summon your Pokémon.” I said sarcastically. “Now let me try. Kick their asses Axel.” The Infernape walked between me and the enemy Pokémon cracking his knuckles. And to back Axel up I’ll use-

“Onii-chan!” No, not Onii-chan. Wait! Woah! I turned around to see you know who coming at me.

“Madison, get the hell out of here! NOW!” I yelled. A battlefield is no place for her, especially against dangerous people like these guys.

“You should know not to get distracted during a fight boy! As punishment, Feraligatr! Use Crunch on the trainer!” the trainer ordered.

“Tauros! Keep the Infernape busy with Take Down!” the other commanded. Tauros snorted as it began kicking snow back with his front right hoof. He then charged at Axel at an incredible speed. Before I knew it, the Big Jaw Pokémon was practically on top of me with its mouth gaping wide. Well shit. For such a large Pokémon, Feraligatr move faster than I thought and Axel was having enough problems dealing with the Wild Bull Pokémon to help me.

“Magical Leaf Cherim!” Out of nowhere rainbow colored leaves flew past my head striking the giant reptile before it could clamp its massive jaws on my body. The sound of that command and the one who issued it filled me with anger.

“You shouldn’t have gotten involved. I had this covered. You should have run away like I told you to Madison!” I scolded angrily looking back and forth between her and Cherim.

“But I wanted to help Onii-chan!” she defended, tears starting to well up in her eyes. I took a deep breath. There was just no getting through to this kid.

“Fine. However, if you dare hinder me or things get too intense, get the hell out. Understood?” Madison nodded with her smile returning to her face. “Good. Just do as you did in combat practice.”

“This isn’t the sewing club! Now if you two are done kissing let’s get back to this!” Feraligatr’s trainer mocked.

“Me? Kiss her? *pff* I don’t know about you, but I’m not a pedophile. Now the real fun begins!” A dramatic wind blew past. “Axel! Mach Punch Tauros!” I called. The monkey clenched a fist and sped off into a golden blur.

“Cherim! Leech Seed… uhh…” Madison stuttered.

“Feraligatr! Do it!” I interrupted. “Right! Feraligatr!” she continued. The Cherryblossom Pokémon shot several seeds from her purple flower at the crocodilian.

“Not so fast! Dodge with Agility Feraligatr!” the trainer commanded. With even greater speed than before, Feraligatr dashed out of the way as the seeds fell harmlessly on the ship deck. Meanwhile, Axel landed his Mach Punch to Tauros’s left side causing the bull to cry out in pain.

“Retaliate with Zen Headbutt Tauros!” ordered Tauros (trainer). The horns on the bull’s head began glowing a strange blue color. With an angry moo, Tauros pulled his head back then slammed it into Axel’s chest.

“Damn that hurt!” Axel complained rubbing his ribs.

“Help Axel Cherim! Use Magical Leaf on Tauros!” called Madison. From underneath Cherim’s flower came several more rainbow colored leaves, all on a direct course for Tauros. The Wild Bull Pokémon mooed in annoyance at the attack and began whipping himself with his tails.

“Don’t forget about me now! Use Ice Fang on Cherim Feraligatr!” Feraligatr (trainer) ordered. Feraligatr opened its massive jaws where frost began surrounding its giant teeth. The brute then charged strait for the Cherryblossom Pokémon. “And Feraligatr, don’t think it unnecessary to swallow.” he added cynically.

“You won’t eat Cherim as long as I’m around! Axel! Flame Wheel Feraligatr!” I called. The flame on the Infernape’s head flared up as if lighter fluid had been splashed in it. He then jumped in the air and began spinning around into a ball shape rolling into the Big Jaw Pokémon before it could hit Cherim. Feraligatr may be fast, but Axel’s faster.

“You’ll pay for that! Feraligatr! Aqua Tail!” Feraligatr (trainer) barked. It was almost like the reptile secreted water from its skin on how fast the Pokémon’s tail was covered in the liquid. The crocodilian swung its massive appendage into Axel sending the Flame Pokémon flying.

“Now get the Infernape with Horn Attack Tauros!” Tauros (trainer) commanded excitedly. Just before Axel hit the floor, the bull came charging with his head down and rammed his horns into the monkey’s side. It was absolutely brutal to watch. Axel staggered back to his feet tightly gripping his left side where Tauros had hit. Axel pulled his hand away revealing a patch of red fur on what should have been white.

Madison put her hands to her mouth in shock. “Axel’s hurt!”

“Don’t worry about me. Tis but a scratch.” the monkey said bravely.

“He’ll be fine, Axel’s been through worse.” I said. Even though I knew he’d be ok, I couldn’t help but feel some concern for my friend and Pokémon. That’s when I came up with one of my unusually brilliant strategies. “Madison, have Cherim use Sunny Day.”

“Um ok.” she agreed nodding. “You heard Onii-chan Cherim!” Cherim temporarily turned upside down shooting a white ball of energy into the sky. The attack seemed to explode in the atmosphere scattering all the clouds in the area while causing the sunlight to intensify. It began to slowly feel like a summer day outside. The extra light caused Cherim to burst from its flower revealing a small yellow pixie covered in sakura petals with cherries on her head.

“You people are up to something.” Tauros (trainer) accused bluntly.

“Gee, I had no idea we were up to something.” I said sarcastically. I turned to Madison. “Did you?”

“I don’t know, what are you planning Onii-chan?” she asked. I should have known better.

“Enough of this pussyfooting! Feraligatr! Thrash them!” Feraligatr (trainer) commanded. The Big Jaw Pokémon’s eyes narrowed as it became more feral. It let out a beastly roar and attacked the closest target, Cherim.

“Cherim has to survive if my plan is to work! Axel! Close Combat Feraligatr!” I called.

“You’re not going anywhere Infernape! Use Thrash as well Tauros!” Tauros (trainer) ordered. The Wild Bull Pokémon began whipping itself again becoming more pissed off. Being closest to Axel, that’s who it went after. Axel instead initiated Close Combat with Tauros.

“Don’t worry Onii-chan, I can take care of myself. Use SolarBeam Cherim!” With the sun as intense as it is, Cherim had no problem absorbing sunlight then sending the golden beam of solar radiation at Feraligatr. In an agonizing roar the crocodilian was sent half way down the deck before the SolarBeam faded leaving the beast unconscious. Now that’s one down, and one to go.

“A little help here Brian!” Axel called desperately. He was surrounded in a flaming gold aura. It had been quite awhile since I had seen Axel in this state.

“So you’ve been pushed so far that your Blaze is activated. Very well, this ends now.” I said silently. “Madison! Have Cherim use Helping Hand on Axel!”

“Right! Do as Onii-chan says Cherim!” she called in her usual cheerful manner. Cherim extended a tiny little hand to Axel. He accepted and she began sharing her power with the monkey. His Blaze aura got slightly more intense. The sunlight, the Blaze, and the power boost from Helping Hand. Now for the last part of my plan.

“Axel! Finish Tauros with Flare Blitz!” I commanded. Axel got down on all fours then lunged at the Wild Bull Pokémon. There was a reason his species was called the Flame Pokémon, Axel had become a speeding fireball by the time he collided with Tauros. The bull mooed in pain as it fell to the ground fainted. Even Axel fell to his knees heavily panting from the double edged sword attack.

“You bastards think we’re finished here?” Tauros (trainer) said pulling out another Pokeball. Feraligatr (trainer) did the same. Shit, just when I thought we were done with these clowns. Out of the corner of my eyes I saw Veilstone Harbor, and on the shoreline were several cop cars waiting. I began laughing triumphantly.

“You fools. We have won, just look down there!” I said pointing to the harbor. Feraligatr’s eyes widened at the sight of the police.

“Who called them?” he demanded in a mix of fear and anger. He looked between me and Madison before looking Madison dead on. “It must have been you! You came into the battle late! That’s enough time to have called the police!” he accused.

“Little bitch!”  Tauros yelled angrily charging at her like his bull Pokémon with his fists clenched. When he was close enough I punched him in the face so hard he fell to the ground causing his hood to fall down. He was probably in his 30’s with buzz cut blond hair. As he got up, he wiped blood from his mouth. “You’ll… pay for-” I kicked him in the ribs to shut him up. The man looked up at me getting a fearful look on his face at the fierce glare I was giving him.

“Don’t ever touch my Nee-chan again, got it!” I said intensely. Madison’s eyes lit up at the comment. I turned to her and smiled. “What can I say, you’ve grown on me. (Like a fungus)” the last part said quietly. “So you called the cops?” I asked her in an impressed tone.

“No.” she said shaking her head.

“It was me.” came a deep voice. I turned around to see the sailor I battled on the first day. “I saw these guys dump a body over the side and called Veilstone City Harbor Patrol to look out for two guys in grey.” The sailor explained.

I stepped forward to the guys who were now looking to the ground in defeat. “Who the hell are you people anyway?” I asked. Feraligatr looked up at me with a sinister grin.

“Team Neos. Remember that name!” he said.
-----------

Feraligatr and Tauros were confiscated along with the other two Pokémon and their trainers put in separate cop cars. Madison and I both gave our testaments to the police on what we saw and our involvement in fighting them.

“Well this is it.” I said to Madison. “You should find yourself a boat that will take you where ever it was you said you wanted to go.”

“No!” she responded defiantly. “There are a few towns in Western Sinnoh that hold contests and I want to win the ribbons there. Those towns just happen to be on the same road you were going to take to collect the badges you need to enter the Sinnoh conference.” I put my hand over my eyes with a sigh. Axel started laughing but was cut off when his side started hurting again.

“You can come with me only if you agree to these conditions. We go at my pace, you slow me down I’m leaving you behind. You pay for your own stuff; food, lodgings, and whatever else. You hunt for your own food, what you find is what you get.” I explained. “This way we aren’t exactly travelling companions, more like two people going in the same direction at the same time who happen to travel together.”

“Whatever works for you Onii-chan.” she said laughing at me. *sigh* This is going to be a long winter.
********************

Alright, this seems like a good stopping point for now. The titular Team has come into play and next chapter is the time skip that takes the cast from mid-December all the way to the end of June.

Man, I really have forgotten how small these chapters were. Or maybe it's the text...

Anyways, if these become books I'm buying them. No questions.

I don't think these will ever get published Chibi, but you're welcome to still send me money 

Chapter 6: Partaé

Over time I began to live up more and more to that annoying nickname Madison had given me. As an only child, I never knew what it was like caring for a younger sibling until now. I had friends who said how annoying their younger siblings could be, and I sure as hell can empathize with them now. Madison and I travelled together all the way to the Sinnoh Conference. I made it all the way to finals that year, and this one turning into one close match…

“Infernape and Torterra are staring eachother down.” The announcer spoke into his microphone to lay even more suspense on the audience. They were probably on the edge of their seats right now, I know I was. This final match had been intense from the word ‘Go!’ In the last 52 minutes my opponent Paul and I had completely decimated one another’s teams. Axel was my last Pokémon, just as Torterra was his.

“Axel! Flare Blitz!” I commanded breaking the stalemate. The Infernape let out a battle cry as he surrounded his body in flames, then charged at Torterra like a comet. Torterra turned its head crying out as Axel landed a direct hit.

“Don’t just stand there Torterra! Use Earthquake!” Paul shouted. The massive tortoise lifted one of its giant feet and stomped the ground with enough force to cause the whole field to shake. I even felt the vibrations from where I stood, so I know Axel was feeling it.

“You’re still close enough! Close Combat!” I called. With a single jump, Axel began beating on Torterra with a high speed melee assault.

“Get some distance! Leaf Storm!” my opponent commanded. As a strong wind began to blow, the leaves on the tree on the Continent Pokémon’s back started rustling as the whole tree started shaking. Axel crossed his arms in front of himself to keep from getting picked up by the wind, but that didn’t help when the blade like leaves were ripped from Torterra’s back and sent on a direct course for the monkey.

“Destroy those leaves with Ember!” I shouted over the loud hum of the wind. The Flame Pokémon spat out a flurry of small flames. While a lot of the incoming foliage was destroyed, there was still too many for Ember to counter. “In that case, turn it up a notch! Flamethrower!” Axel inhaled launching a long stream of fire into the Leaf Storm burning every last one until only ash remained of the onslaught.

“Now Torterra! Giga Drain!” Paul commanded. The giant tortoise shot three green tendrils of energy at Axel, two wrapping around his arms and the last one around his torso. The monkey looked at the energy whips disappointedly as they began sucking away his energy.

“Even your strongest Grass attacks are pitiful against me!” the Infernape taunted as he surrounded his fists in fire and slashed the vines of energy, breaking them apart like they were real vines. The green energy slowly dissipated into nothingness.

“Let’s turn this up with Sunny Day Axel!” I called. After the battle on the ship with those Neos guys, Madison graced me with another TM so that I could make use of Sunny Day without her. And so I am. Axel concentrated a white ball of energy into his hand then threw it into the sky where it reacted with the atmosphere to absorb more sunlight making it feel hotter. In the heat, things will dry out from the increased evaporation of water making them easier to burn.

“You fool!” Paul laughed, most likely at me. “Now I don’t have to waste time charging! Torterra! Solar Beam!” Torterra opened its mouth and made use of the plentiful solar energy by drawing it in faster than usual then shot a golden beam of sunlight at Axel. The monkey gave me a look that said ‘dumbass!’ before firing a Flamethrower to hold the beam back. No matter how much fire the Infernape breathed into the attack the Solar Beam kept coming. Finally Axel decided there was no stopping it and attempted to dodge it instead. However the speed of light proved faster, catching his foot as he cartwheeled to the left. Axel grumbled as he stood up albeit a little wobbly from his foot hurting.

“Quit complaining! You know you’re having fun!” I said. It had been quite awhile since we faced an opponent this skilled. “Now Axel, what say ye for Combo Two?” I suggested, although we both knew I was telling him to do it.

“Combo Two?” Paul repeated in confusion. The Flame Pokémon balled his fist before disappearing in a golden blur. Axel landed his Mach Punch on Torterra’s jaw, then opening his fist, began Furry Swipes. It’s amazing what can be accomplished by combining attacks.

“Torterra! Solar Beam!” called my opponent. Shit! There wasn’t time to avoid this one! The Continent Pokémon rapidly drew in the sunlight before blasting Axel away with the attack. The way Axel bounced down the field there was no way that attack was anything less than a critical hit.

“Hey! You ok?” I asked him. The first thing to rise was his right hand with the middle finger up. Oh yeah, he’s fine. Axel once again picked himself up of the ground. Some things never change, even as a Chimchar he refused to give up. It’s just not in Axel’s nature to quit unless he’s unconscious. “As long as Torterra can use instant Solar Beam, I say we play the distance game. Flamethrower!” Axel nodded in agreement not wanting another face full of solar energy, then spit a long stream of fire at the tortoise. The sun had been strong for at least five or ten minutes by now as was obvious by the grass igniting under the Flamethrower serving as fuel making the attack stronger. Torterra roared in agony as the flames licked all over its body. When Axel ceased fire (pun intended), there was a long black streak still lit with small scattered embers leading all the way to my opponent who was almost completely surrounded by charred grass and smoke. Barely noticeable was a burn on top of Torterra’s shell.

“Enough of this! Torterra! End this with Frenzy Plant!” Paul commanded confidently. Frenzy Plant? Never heard of that move before. I wonder what it’s like. I didn’t have to wait long, Torterra was quickly surrounded in a green aura as it charged the attack. I don’t like the feel of this. The Continent Pokémon stomped its massive foot to the ground, only this time, instead of an earthquake, four giant earth-green thorned roots emerged from the ground. The giant roots lunged at Axel like snakes. In his attempt to evade one of them, Axel was struck by another landing on his back. The third root loomed above him thrusting downward like a spear, which he narrowly avoided by rolling to the side and back on his feet. The fourth one came for a frontal attack forcing Axel to jump backward. This had apparently been Torterra’s intention as the giant roots then spiraled around themselves like a drill before spinning into Axel’s chest. The Infernape screamed in pain as the roots continues twisting as if they would pierce him. Instead, he was picked up off his feet and thrown into the wall of the stadium behind me. The roots of the Frenzy Plant retracted and went back underground threw the gaping hole in the ground they left behind.

The Flame Pokémon got up as always and staggered forward. As he walked past me, Axel turned his head to look me in the eye as an apologetic smile crossed his face. “S-sorry… I… can’t go on…” he said before collapsing.

“Infernape is defeated! The winner of this match and the Sinnoh Conference is Paul Shinji and his Torterra!” the Referee declared.

“Don’t worry about it Axel.” I said gently. “You did your best and that’s all I could ever ask for. Besides, we had fun and that’s all that matters.” I picked Axel up and threw him over my shoulder to carry him to the stadium’s Pokémon Center.

“Brian.” came Paul’s voice. “Good match. You are a very strong opponent and I respect you for your skill.” he said extending his hand. I accepted the hand shake.

“Thanks. You are also a worthy opponent. I had a lot of fun fighting you.” I said.

“*hmph* Whatever.” Paul said retracting his hand. Did I say something wrong? I wanted to ask him about Frenzy Plant. Oh well, maybe I’ll see him at the after party. But first things first, I don’t plan on having an unconscious monkey on my back until he decides nap time is over.
--------------------------

After getting my Pokémon healed at the Pokémon Center, I attended the Award Ceremony where I was given the $10,000 second place prize inside a silver trophy that read 2nd Place on it. All in all, this was a fun tournament. So what if I didn’t win, I haven’t won a League Tournament yet. I didn’t even place in Kanto or Johto, and I got 3rd in Hoenn. As far as I’m concerned, I’m getting better.
------------------

“I’m sorry you lost Onii-chan.” Madison consoled as if I were upset when we met up after the ceremony.

“Why? I’m not.” I said matter-of-factly beginning to walk back to the hotel we were staying at.

“But you lost. Aren’t you sad?” she asked in confusion following me.

“Disappointed, yes. Sad, no. Winning isn’t everything Madison. I live to test the limits of my abilities, so I actively seek strong opponents to give me the thrill of a challenge. If I always won, I’d get bored. Knowing that there are still people in the world who can beat me is what keeps me going. Combat is a learning experience, remember that.” I explained. “Besides, you saw how close that battle was. If Axel could have held on just a little longer, his next attack coupled with Torterra’s burn would have won me the battle.”

“Well escuuuuse me!” Axel said pretending to be offended.

“So you’re saying losing is a good thing?” Madison questioned.

“Indeed.” I nodded walking up to the door of the two-roomed suite. All the competitors were given one. There was still half an hour before the after party so I figured I’d take a rest before leaving, plus I still needed to drop off my goodies.

“Onii-chan, what should I wear to the party?” Madison asked as soon as we walked in the suite.

“What you have on is good enough. I’m wearing what I have on.” I answered tediously sprawling myself out on the sofa.

“You wear the same thing every day!” she retorted frustratedly.

“No, I own two pairs of pants and three T-shirts. Not my fault if they’re identical in every possible way.” I defended. “One warning though, don’t drink the punch.” I warned changing the subject.

“Why?” she asked stopping midway to her room.

“Because the last party I went to, someone spiked it.” I responded flipping over into a semi-sitting position.

“What does that mean?”

“It means someone did something to the punch so that anyone who drinks it would do ‘funny’ things. For example, thanks to drinking some, I had my first kiss with Axel.” Madison’s eyes widened to the size of her face in shock. I was trying my hardest not to laugh It’s no fun having an annoying sibling if you can’t mess with them once in awhile. Axel caught on to my prank and started staring at Madison with an amorous look. He then puckered his lips and made a quick kissing sound. With that Madison ran to her room.

“You’re bad.” I said laughing.

“I learned from the best.” he replied.

“Aye, that ye did.” I agreed. I stood up and stretched. “Shall we be off then?” I offered.
---------------

“I like to move it, move it! I like to move it, move it! I like to move it, move it! Ya like to… Move it!” Axel and I sang into our respective microphones while dancing around like maniacs. It was our tradition for any party we went to, go up to the DJ, request ‘Move it Move it’, obtain microphones, and karaoke! Naturally we became the center of attention. “All girls all over da world! Original Psycho Monkey pon ya case mon!” we continued shamelessly.

When the song ended, we took our bow to the cheering audience then walked off to get a drink. Just not of punch. I threw Axel a water bottle from the food table and grabbed one for myself. I pulled off the cap and took a long refreshing chug of ice cold water. “Ahhhhh…” I sighed pulling the bottle away from my face.

“Excuse me, Mr. Brian?” someone asked catching me off guard. I turned around to see a pudgy balding man with glasses in a red suit with some sort of envelope in his hand. I recognized the man as the official that handled the award ceremony.

“Don't call me Mister, I hate that.” I responded. I wiped some sweat from my forehead with my thumb as I felt it about to drip in my eyes.

“The Champion was supposed to get this letter, but Paul Shinji turned it down saying he’d rather train for the Elite Four. Therefore, as the runner-up you get this.” he said passing the envelope to me.

“What is it?” I inquired accepting it.

“I have no idea.” The man admitted. “I was just told to give this to the Champion.” I tore it open and pulled out the letter inside along with a boat ticket.

Dear Sinnoh League Champion,

It is my honor to invite you to the White City Tournament on White Island, south west of Johto. You have been recognized for your exceptional skill and will participate against one hundred twenty seven other powerful trainers from all over the world. The tournament will begin on July 1, 2008. If any of the one hundred twenty eight competitors does not show up on this date or for their scheduled matches then they will forfeit. Included is a ticket for a special transport that will take you to White City. Further details will be disclosed at the Opening Ceremony. Good luck.

Sincerely,
The White City Committee

“Hm, interesting.” I said. Excitement began pulsing through my veins as I laughed quietly to myself. “I hope you’ve had adequate rest, we’re about to enter another tournament Axel.”
**********************

Shamelss Paul exy is shameless.

With chapters this short, it's no wonder I was coming out with one a week before.

Chapter 7: Stupid Is As Stupid Does

“But *sob* I *sob* don’t *sob* want *sob* you *sob* to *sob* le-he-he-heave!” Madison cried with twin waterfalls flowing down her face. Her brown eyes looked like melted chocolate in a bowl of water. What a pathetic creature.

“Look Madison, I was only given one ticket so you can’t come with me and I have no intention of missing a tournament to babysit you. Get over it!” I said sternly.

“For serious! After getting that last ass kicking, I want to give some myself!” Axel added. We were in Sunnyshore City at the moment where the ship to White City would pick me up along with the other Sinnoh participants on June 21st, one day from now.

“But Onii-chan!” she pleaded.

“No buts! You need to learn to stand on your own two feet without me. Just keep doing as I taught you.” I put my hand on her head and spun her around. “See that? That is the world. Tis most vast and is yours for the exploring and taking and all that other crazy nonsense I do.” I said philosophically. I don’t know what the hell I just said but it seemed to make sense.

Madison turned her head up to look me in the eye despite me still using it as an armrest. “I don’t get it.” she said. I removed my hand from her head as I threw both arms out to the side like I was about to hug someone.

“Neither do I, but it’s an answer that you must find alone.” I said emphasizing alone.

“Like dude! Check out that Infernape man! It’s like, totally gold man!” came a voice belonging to what sounded like one of three people, a surfer dude, a hippie, or a stoner. Then again, the last option could fit the first two.

“Dude, you are like, totally trippin’ balls. There are definitely like, two weirdo Infernapes man.” said another one. Yup, definitely stoners. There were two guys walking (more like staggering really) up the boardwalk toward us, each one had a joint in his fingers. I put the back of my hand to my nose to keep from inhaling the smoke. Last thing I want to find out is what happens when a creature who’s mind is already warped gets high.

“Who are those guys Onii-can?” Madison whispered to me.

“Those are what crawl out of the shallow end of the gene pool. Because human society frowns upon killing or letting natural selection eliminate those idiots, they are allowed to exist.” I explained.

“Excuse me, but what the hell do you think you’re doing?” Axel asked angrily as the potheads began examining him. He looked like he was about to make their already fried brains well done.

“Can I help you foolish Homo sapiens?” I inquired stepping forward between them and a soon-to-be-postal Infernape.

“Like dude, I think you got the wrong idea about us. We are totally not gay.” said Stoner1.

“Seriously dude, you need to like, be careful who you call homo. It could really offend someone.” Stoner2 commented. An amused grin slowly came over my face. They had no idea all I did was call them humans, nor did they deny being called fools. This could be fun.

“*snicker* You’re right. Please forgive me, I had no idea.” I said innocently with some sarcasm involved.

“It’s cool man. Forgive and forget right?” said Stoner2.

“Totally man. It’s all good.” Stoner1 said. “So dude, are we like, high off our asses or are those Infernapes really blond?” he asked. I began giggling at what I was about to tell them.

“Well there is only one, and yes Axel has gold fur, he was born that way.” I said. That much was truth. This next part is not. “You see my Aunt Dolores had blond hair. She was also into very kinky things. One night she had her way with a male Infernape named Son Goku and got pregnant. Several months later Axel was born as a Chimchar with his mother’s hair color.” I said.

“Da fuck!? Where the fuck did that come from!?” a bewildered Axel asked in both shock and disgust at my random comment. I’ll admit that story was kind of messed up.

“You mean Axel’s really your cousin because your Aunt Dolores did things she wasn’t supposed to?” Madison asked in as much shock as Axel. I slowly turned my head to with a WTF look on my face. She actually fell for that?

“You’re naivety knows no bounds!” I stated in disbelief. “No he’s not my cousin. I was just screwing with these guys. The only truth in that sentence was that he was born with gold fur.” I clarified. Hell, I don’t even have an Aunt Dolores.

“So wait. You like, totally lied to us man.” Stoner2 realized.

“Uncool dude. I like, thought we were friends dude.” said Stoner1 sorrowfully. Give me a break, I only encountered these morons five minutes ago.

“That wasn’t very nice Onii-chan. You should apologize.” Madison told me. I looked down at her with a ‘like hell’ look on my face.

“What’s an Onii-chan?” Stoner1 asked dimwittedly. I rolled my eyes shaking my head.

“It means big brother but-”

“So wait! You’re like, that girl’s brother?” interrupted Soner1.

“I would have like never guessed. You two look nothing alike.” Stoner2 said in amazement. *sigh* What the hell, I’ll run with it. I put my finger to my lips indicating I didn’t want Madison to interrupt while I went on another tangent.

“Oh yeah, we’re siblings.” I said sarcastically. “Mom had blue eyes,” I said pointing to my eyes. “*points to Madison* and Dad had brown eyes.” I started playing with one of my spikes. “Dad also had spiky black hair, *puts hand on Madison’s head* and Mom had brown hair…” I broke from my sarcastic rant when I saw her bangs. “With pink in it apparently…. Ok seriously, all this time we’ve travelled together I’ve never seen you dye your hair and yet it has remained pink as it’s grown! What the hell?” I questioned. “Pink is not a natural hair color!”

Madison smiled at me with a giggle. “A girl has a right to her secrets you know.” she said coyly. I don’t believe this! She’s actually messing with me! What have I created?

“Dude I’m like, totally confused right now.” Stoner2 said blankly.

“Aw man I know. That guy’s sister like had some crazy ass monkey sex and like, gave birth to a pink Infernape man.” Stoner1 stated not knowing what he was talking about.

“Shut up ignorant masses! Are you so high you can’t keep your facts straight, even if everything I said was false?” I shouted.

“Dude, I think he just like, totally insulted us.” reasoned Stoner1.

“Like, get him dude!” said Stoner2. Even if they were sober they’d be no match for me, but in this state it was like kicking a puppy. The two staggered over to me attempting to attack. I simply sidestepped them and pushed one into the other sending both potheads rolling off the boardwalk into the sandy beach next to the harbor.

“Weeee dude!” one of them cheered as they rolled. I clapped my hands together as if to wipe them off.

“Today’s lesson children; don’t do drugs.” I told a nonexistent crowd turning around. “Now where was I in my rant with you Madison?” I questioned trying to get back on subject.

“You were saying how I should learn to take care of myself alone.” she reminded with disappointment in her tone.

“Then a bunch of naked apes began checking me out.” Axel added.

“Right, right.” I said to myself getting back on track. “So I leave tomorrow, anything you want to know before I go?” I inquired.

“Will I ever see you again Onii-chan?” Madison asked sadly.

I shrugged my shoulders. “Dun know. Maybe. It all depends on where we go next.” I said flatly.

“Then I should be ok. I’ll keep going as long as there’s a chance I’ll see Onii-chan again.” She declared cheerfully. Good enough for me.
-----

The next morning Axel and I left Madison in Sunnyshore City as we boarded the SS Megiddo for White City. This should be fun!
************************

Why the hell did I even write this chapter!?

Chapter 8: White City

Team Neos Foils Team Aqua
In an attempt to bring rain to the Hoenn desert with numerous Water-type Pokémon simultaneously using Rain Dance, Team Aqua was defeated by yet another intervention by Team Neos. At the conclusion of the battle, casualties included a Wailmer and two Golducks. Ten other Pokémon and six Aqua trainers were injured in the attack. Police were unable to make any arrests of Neos members. There will be no investigation on the incident authorities say.

I threw the newspaper to the side in disgust. Ever since that day on the boat with Madison, Team Neos has been popping up in the news more and more frequently. The worst part is the police are just letting this go! Sure the Neos only target the major criminal organizations like Team Galactic and Team Aqua, which I guess makes life easier for the cops, but I just can’t get over all the shit they pull receiving no repercussions what so ever.

“Team Neos. Remember that name.” I said repeating what the guy with the Feraligatr said over six months ago when I kicked his ass. Like it’s hard with how much attention they get these days.

“Attention passengers.” a loud booming voice came over the speakers. “We have just arrived in White City. Please gather all your belongings and disembark the ship carefully. Enjoy your stay in White City.” the captain said until the speakers clicked off with a bit of static. Didn’t need to tell me that, I’ve seen the approaching land for the last half hour. I got up out of the chair I had been sitting in on the deck of the ship to leave with everyone else with a certain monkey behind me.

Salty air blew past as I took my first step on to the island White City was located. It was a beautifully warm day and the scenery was exquisite. The land that wasn’t urbanized was a very fertile green. Not too far away I could hear the sounds of rushing water like a waterfall. If there ever was a paradise on Earth, this was it.

“The opening ceremony of the tournament is tomorrow isn’t it?” asked Axel breaking me from my trance.

“Hm? Oh, yeah. Why, what do you propose?” I inquired.

“I says we go ‘splorin’!” the monkey declared.

“Splorin’s always fun.” I agreed. “Heads we go to the right, tails we go left.” I said pulling out a coin. I flipped it in the air, caught it, and smacked it on the back of my other hand. “Tails!” I announced turning to the left beginning to walk.

“Brian, you’re going the wrong way!” Axel called. I stopped and looked down at my hands. I extended the hand I write with, my right, and looked in the direction I had been heading. Curse my directional impairedness. I jumped up doing a 180° spin in the air to face the way I wanted to go, and continued walking like nothing had happened. Behind me I could hear Axel snickering. Like he’s any better, I must constantly remind him of things like days of the week.

Starting from the southwest of the city going clockwise there was a residential area complete with apartments, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Nearby was a small island a few yards away from the main island with a flowing waterfall. Due west across a bridge was a large hollowed out rectangular building colored a whitish silver. The entrance was up a flight of stairs with eight pillars on either side of the double staircase, four on each side, holding up the roof as the double glass doors were more toward the center of the building. On top of it was a giant Pokeball, the same color as the building. So says a random passerbier, this is the research lab of Professor Alfonze Heimrich, the crazy eccentric German scientist. I’m gonna have to pay this guy a visit when I’m done ‘splorin’.

My travels then took me to a castle in the northwest. It had a similar color scheme to the lab and apparently it’s some sort of historical monument of battle. I’ll have to find out more about that later. Directly north was a Contest Hall for Coordinators as well as a kind of Pokémon playground where Pokémon can play games that don’t have much to do with battle such as a type of soccer game for Furrets, Linoon, and Girafarig. On a small island to the northeast was a park that required you to cross a bridge to get to. All around the park there were benches to sit back and relax, water fountains for drinking, one big aesthetically pleasing water fountain somewhere toward the center, light posts for when it got dark, and a place to battle on the boardwalk. Luckily no one challenged me. I still haven’t seen all the sights yet, and I’d like to know where everything is before sunset.

Continuing my travels, I passed by a school to the east. By the looks of it (and the plaque on the side of the building) this was the White City Pokémon Academy. Haha losers! You guys have to go to school to learn how to be trainers while I dropped out of school to become one. Then Axel took a piss on the wall. That made my day right there. The next thing on my stop to the southeast was the main city consisting of a ton of skyscrapers, most likely office buildings for various businesses. One of said buildings was particularly interesting; no doubt the largest one on the skyline.

“Hey Brian! Watch out!” Axel warned. I turned around just in time to walk into something and fall to the ground.

“Are you alright?” asked a man in a calm voice standing over me. He had semi-neatly combed brown hair, blue eyes, and wore a white suit with a light blue dress shirt underneath and a white tie. His dress shoes were the same color as his pimp suit.

“Yea I’m fine.” I said getting up. The man gave me a strange look, staring at me as if he were in deep thought. “Something wrong?” I asked confused with a hint of annoyance. The man broke from his trance.

“No. nothing at all.” he said waving his right hand as if pushing the idea aside. “Sorry. You just look very familiar. Have we met?”

“Can’t say that we have.” I said still confused.

“Perhaps I have seen you around. Are you a student at White City Academy?” he inquired.

“Nope.” I said proudly. “I actually just arrived in White City for the first time this afternoon.” I explained.

“Puzzling.” the man said. He chuckled quietly to himself. “Anyway, you should be more careful young man.”

“Oh yea, sorry about that.” I said embarrassedly rubbing the back of my head. “That building over there was just so interesting I couldn’t take my eyes off of it.” I said pointing to where my attention had been.

“Ah, the White City Committee Building. It is the home of White City’s government.” he said turning to look at it. No wonder it’s so big, it’s the most important building in the city. “That would explain why you were so inadvertent earlier.”

“What?” I asked in confusion. Why did he have to go and use a big word?

“Are you disconcerted by my vocabulary?” asked the man. Stop that! “Very well, I shall expurgate my sentences if it will help you understand what I am telling you.” he said shrugging his shoulders. Now he’s just doing it on purpose. Stupid smart people.

“So no more big words?” I asked.

“For one so ignorant as you, I will stunt my vocabulary for now.” he mocked.

“Fantastic.” I said sarcastically.

“I see you have an Infernape. I have never seen one of this coloration before, quite a rare breed indeed.” said the man finally taking notice of Axel. Usually his gold fur attracts attention due being so unnatural and out of the ordinary, but I guess because this guy was so distracted by me he didn’t notice.

“Thank you for acknowledging me.” Axel said bowing.

“Well I am a trainer.” I said. Then I realized something. “You said you recognized me from somewhere. I’ve placed 3rd in the Hoenn League, 2nd in the Sinnoh League, and participated in numerous other tournaments over the last five years, including the one that starts tomorrow. Is it possible you know me from that? The name’s Brian Nosurname if you’ve heard it.”

“I believe I have, but only because the White City Committee was informed several days ago that Paul Shinji would be unavailable to participate in the upcoming tournament leaving his spot open for the trainer who won second place in the Sinnoh Conference.”

“Wait, you work for the White City Committee? So you’re a political?” I inquired.

“A politician, yes.” he corrected. “This tournament is the first one hosted by White City and we are hoping to make it an annual affair. If all goes well in the coming week then I can only surmise that the Committee will become very busy, maybe even flourish.”

“Well from a combatant’s perspective I hope it goes well too. I look forward to challenging fights, and I know Axel is ready to kick some ass.” I said excitedly.

“Hell yeah I am!” the monkey said in agreement. The sound of a waterfall entered the silence of the evening. As usual it was found on a small island to the southeast. We had begun walking around the time the conversation started, and now the sky had started turning a beautiful purple-orange mix as the sun disappeared under the horizon.

“I think now would be an appropriate time to part ways. Farewell Brian, I wish you the best of luck in the tournament.” the man said before taking off as I kept walking the opposite direction.

“Am I the only one that found that a bit uncomfortable?” Axel asked me.

“That was pretty strange.” I admit.

“Did we even get his name?”

“No, no we didn’t.”
-----------------

We continued our tour of the city checking out the night life. The reason we wanted to be done before sunset before was so we could compare. Around 10 that night, we went back to the residential area and checked into the hotel that was reserved for us. It was a big room consisting of a kitchen, a bathroom, a living room/main area, and a two bed bedroom. Not bad, not bad at all. I striped down, crawled in bed, set the alarm for six, and went to sleep in anticipation for tomorrow’s tournament.

Chapter 9 pt1: Opening Ceremony

Just as the Opening Ceremony was about to start, the band began playing the Pokémon Theme. It may be predictable but it just wouldn’t feel right to have a tournament start without that anthem playing at the beginning.

“Good morning ladies and gentlemen!” a big fat balding guy with a mustache shouted into a microphone. “I would like to welcome all of you to the first ever White City Tournament!” The audience of spectators and contestants cheered in response. “We the White City Committee have searched the world gathering the strongest trainers we could find so that they may compete against one another to see which of these 128 individuals is the strongest of all!” More cheering.

“By strongest he’s talking about us.” Axel said confidently.

“Most likely.” I agreed. “Though I hope that someone in this audience who’s fighting would be a challenge. It gets boring if you tear through the competition without even breaking a sweat.”

“Like Pidgeot verses Magikarp.” Axel said.

“Due to the number of competitors, the first round will be split into a two day period. The first 32 matches will be today after this introduction, and the last 32 will be held tomorrow at the same time.” The old guy continued. Sadly I already knew I was scheduled as the third to last match tomorrow night. Before the opening ceremony, all the competitors were gathered together, given a schedule of all the matches, and had all the tournament rules explained.

The battles go as follows: First round is as the old man said. The second round held Thursday July 3rd, the day after tomorrow, will be 32 matches. Friday will be the 16 matches of round three, and the eight matches of round four. All of these battles will be 3-on-3 elimination. Then Saturday will be the finals. All of these will be 6-on-6 elimination matches. The champion will be crowned that night at the closing ceremony. In battle rules are pretty basic, no healing except by held item or recovery move like Recover, Synthesis, Leech Life, etc. Have the three Pokémon you will use selected before the battle to prevent cheating. You may change your team line up between matches if you have more than six Pokémon. Pretty much nothing I haven’t seen before.

Chapter 9 pt2: Science is Fun!

“Well Axel, what do we do now?” I inquired after the ceremony. We pretty much had a good 36 hours before my match began and I’d rather spend it doing something other than watch the competition. Strange considering most people would watch their opponents to get a feel for their strategies and how they work, but not me. With the switch Pokémon between matches rule, by the time I fight a person they could have changed their tactics to something I would have been unprepared for anyway. Plus it would be kind of silly to memorize someone only to have them lose before I battle them.

“Why not visit that professor? Everyone said he was crazy.” suggested Axel.

“And I like meeting fellow crazy people.” I said getting out of my seat. “Science is fun!” The two of us marched out of the stadium in the center of the city to where the lab was. Soon we stood in front of the large building staring mindlessly at it. “Well you go first.” I said indifferently.

“What? Me go first! You’re the human!” Axel complained.

“But it was your idea.” I replied. Axel threw his fist out at me. I answered with my own and we began shaking them up and down. On the third shake I threw out my palm and Axel threw out two fingers.

“Ha! Scissors beat paper!” he cheered. I grumbled taking a step forward. “After you.” teased the Infernape politely, even bowing mockingly extending his arm to lead the way for me. I walked up the stair case to the double glass doors. Should I knock or just walk in? Ah what the hell. I opened the door and walked in.

The inside wasn’t as fancy as the outside was. The entrance hall was pretty plain, with a door to the right and a second door in the back behind a spiral staircase. The staircase led to a balcony over head that looked to be the second floor, the only thing keeping people from jumping off that floor onto this one was a metal railing going across from the wall to the spiral staircase then serving as the staircase’s railing.

“Yo! Anyone home?” I called to the seemingly empty lab.

“Who’s down there?” came a female’s voice. That doesn’t sound like any Alfonze Heimrich to me. A beautiful female scientist with dirty blond hair and round glasses, wearing a long white lab coat walked to the edge of the second floor balcony looking down at me. Hello! Aside from being super hot, she’s also wearing a mini-skirt, standing up there while I’m down here with a very welcoming view. Part of my wanted to continue admiring the pink panties, while the other half was saying ‘turn away now.’ Cursed biology.

“Wow Psycho Monkey. You’re a perv.” Axel stated coldly catching me.

“Shoosh you!” I whispered harshly turning around with my finger to my mouth. “You’d do the same in the presence of a good looking female Infernape.”

“Except my species is always naked so there’s nothing wrong with it.” he replied superiorly.

“Well my species wear clothes so I have to take what I can when I can. Besides, you’re only a perv if you intentionally seek it out. If it’s a happy accident like this then it’s ok to look.” I justified. “As long as you don’t make a habit out of it.” I added.

“What are you two talking about?” asked the scientist now standing a few feet away glaring at us. Oh how I hope she didn’t hear that conversation.

“Axel here was just saying how pretty you are for a human.” I said. Her glare turned into a smile at the complement.

“Why thank you Axel.” she said to him. “*squee* This Infernape has gold fur! Must experiment!” she said with great enthusiasm.

“No! Experiment on him! Him! He’s the one that wants to know anatomy!” cried Axel pointing at me every time he said him.

“What do you plan on doing to Axel?” I asked anxiously.

“Nothing serious. I just want his measurements, a blood test, and to observe his stats and IVs.” explained the scientist.

“A blood test? Does that mean needles!?” Axel asked fearfully. He ran behind me putting his hands on my shoulders so he could hide while still talk to me. “Brian, I am sorry for anything I may have done to piss you off lately, that includes stealing your pancakes this morning and blaming Snorlax, just don’t let her stick me with a needle!” he pleaded. I knew he was the one that stole my pancakes. I’ll apologize to Snorlax later.

“Axel would rather you not experiment on him. He’s a wuss.” I said.

“So cruel…” whined the monkey.

“Damn!” said the scientist disappointedly. “Oh yea, why did you come here anyway trainer? For that matter what is your name?” she inquired.

“Humans call me Brian, and I came to visit Prof. Heimrich.” I said.

“He actually goes by Prof. Himee.” she corrected.

“Himee?” I questioned.

“He said Heimrich made him sound like a Nazi. He also got tired of people asking him if he invented the Heimlich Maneuver.” she said flatly.

“That makes perfect sense. So is he around?” I asked.

“Prof. Himee is a very busy man. You can’t just walk in and say ‘Can I see him?’ and expect-” she was cut off buy a huge explosion blowing out a door on the second floor releasing a ton of black smoke. An old man walked out of the smoke coughing covered from head to toe in black ash and soot. His hair was messy sticking out in every direction. I wasn’t sure if that was the result of the explosion or if he was always like that.

“*cough* Note to self. Vhen dissecting Voltorb, don’t start in zhe middle.” he choked in a German accent.

“Prof. Himee! Are you alright?” the female scientist asked urgently.

“Yes Asuna, I’m fine. But vhen dissecting a Voltorb, don’t start in zhe middle.” Himee repeated. I think I like this guy already. I’m not too sure about Axel though; his eye has been twitching ever since Himee mentioned dissecting a Votorb. “Oh! Vhy didn’t you say ve had guests?” asked Prof. Himee noticing me and Axel.

“Well they just arrived. Brian said he wanted to meet you.” Asuna explained.

“Vonderful!” Himee cheered running down the spiral stairs. When on the first floor he walked over to Axel. “Brian vas it? I must say, you are a magnificent specimen. Never before have I seen gold fur on an Infernape.” he said examining Axel, including lifting his arm and looking around him.

“Get the hell off me you freak!” Axel yelled pulling away.

“You got it wrong. I’m Brian, this is Axel.” I clarified. The professor turned his head from Axel’s arm pit to me.

“Vell of course you are. How silly it vould be if zhe Infernape was actually looking for me. Can I interest you in an experiment?” he inquired.

“As long as neither me nor Axel are your guinea pigs.” I said.

“Vell you two von’t be me subjects, but I may ask for your involvement. I vant to show you how Pokeballs vork!” Prof. Himee said. I looked at Axel who nodded in agreement.

“We’re in.” I said to the professor.

“Excellent! Follow me!” he said excitedly. “Oh, and Asuna, could you get me some blue Kool-Aide? It’s zhe best kind.”

“Yes sir…” Asuna said sadly.

“One for me too! It really is the best kind.” I called down as I was already half way up the staircase. “Make that two, one for me and Axel.” I added.

“This isn’t a delivery service!” argued Asuna.

“Zhen I’ll have three!” Himee called. I love this guy. Asuna sighed and went to fulfill her assignment. Meanwhile the three of us went into the now doorless room that reeked of smoke and recently got a new paint job. Apparently singed black is in this year. On a lab table were various tools and bent deformed metal; half of it red, the other half white.

“Is that a Pokeball?” I inquired.

“No. Zhat is zhe remains of a Voltorb I vas dissecting. Vhen dissecting Voltorb, don’t start in zhe middle.” he said again. He either wants to make sure we know, or he’s a bit senile and doesn’t realize this is the third time he said it. “Now could I borrow vone of your Pokeballs?”

“Sure. Hang on a sec.” I said pulling my green backpack from my back. I started rummaging through it until I came across the red and white sphere. “Here we are.” I said handing it to him. He must need it for a demonstration. Himee inspected the orb, then threw it at my head.

“Ow! What the hell’s the matter with you?” I asked angrily rubbing my forehead which now had a nice bruised bump on it.

“You vere not sucked in. Vhy?” Prof. Himee questioned.

“Because I’m human! Pokeballs only work on Pokémon.” I said annoyed. He’s a scientist, he should know this stuff. Ow my head hurts.

“Zhat is correct. But do you know vhy Pokleballs only affect Pokémon?” Hm. He’s got me there. I never really gave that a thought before. “Return Axel to his Pokeball for a moment. I vant you to pay close attention vhen you do.”

“Axel’s Pokeball is actually broken, so let me try with a different Pokémon.” I offered. Heh. Broken was an understatement. Completely destroyed is more like it. I pulled a ball from my waist and sent out Riolu who was in battle position with his arms out ready to attack. “Relax Rio. There isn’t a fight. Prof. Himee just wants to show us something.” The Emanation Pokémon lowered his arms and took a more relaxed stance.

“A Riolu! Quite a rare breed indeed. Could I maybe…”

“No you may not experiment on him.” I said firmly. Himee looked away in disappointment.

“Anyvay, did you notice anyzhing vhen you sent Riolu out?” the professor asked.

“Was I supposed to?”

“Zhat vas zhe whole point of zhe procedure! Return Riolu, and zhis time watch very carefully.” instructed Prof. Himee. I apologized to Riolu as I held out his Pokeball to recall him. A red beam of light shot from the button on the sphere at the small Pokémon enveloping him in that same red light before condensing him and pulling him back into his capsule.

“Zhere! Tell me you saw it zhis time!” said Prof. Himee passionately.

“Yeah, but what was that?” I asked unsure of what I just saw. Sure I’d seen it daily for years, but I never paid much attention to it. Now I want to know.

“An excellent question. Zhere are five Kingdoms of Eukaryotes in zhe vorld. Animals like fish, insects, and us humans; Plants like zhe trees in forests, and grass in fields; Fungus like mushrooms and zhat stuff between my toes; Protist which are all but microscopic; and finally zhe Pokémon vhich are zhe most unique of all. Zhe only kingdom zhat can spontaneously evolve, fight using numerous abilities, and, depending on zhe species, have traits of zhe first three kingdoms. Pokeballs are specifically designed to ze cellular structure of Pokémon and zhe energy zhey produce. Zhat is vhy you veren’t sucked in zhe Pokeball, zhat is vhy trees are not sucked in vhen you miss.” he explained.

“Amazing Prof. Himee!” I said in astonishment.

“Show more enthusiasm.” Himee scolded.

“Enthusiasm?” I repeated.

“No no no. En-THU-siasm!” the professor repeated moving his arms in a circle around his head.

“Amazing Prof. Himee!” I repeated enthusiastically.

“Now you’re just faking it.” the old man said glumly. Well I tried, even though I have no idea what I did wrong.

“Here are your drinks.” Asuna said walking in the room with a tray carrying three glasses of blue Kool-Aide. She set the tray on the edge of the table where there wasn’t as much stuff. Prof. Himee looked at the tray in confusion.

“Vhy did you bring three?” he asked.

“For your guests.” she emphasized. Yup, he’s senile.

“Oh right. Thank you Asuna. You may go back to vork now.” Asuna gave a sarcastic smile and left the room. “Cheers men!” Himee said lifting up a glass. Axel and I lifted our own to his. What we were toasting to, I had no idea, but this guy was fun. I could learn a lot from him.
**************

Admit it, Himee is your favorite character.

Ah the tournament. This is where chapters start to get longer.


Chapter 10: Let the Games Begin

I ended up spending most of the next two days with Prof. Himee getting a tour of the lab in the process. The giant Pokeball on the roof is actually the fourth and fifth floors, with the fifth being an observatory. Later that night we watched the stars over dinner and got in an interesting conversation on ketchup. Why do we put ketchup on cheese burgers and fries, but not steak or mashed potatoes which are made from the exact same substances? We concluded that that was one of the larger mysteries of life.

“It’s almost time for my match. I’ll see ya when I get back Professor.” I said running down the spiral stair case with Axel close behind.

“Have fun storming zhe castle!” shouted the old man from the second floor balcony.
-----------

When I got to the stadium, the 28th match of the day was already underway. I was mach 30, so I still had roughly 20minutes to half an hour before it was my turn depending on how long these people took. The current battle went by pretty quickly, a Goth chick with white-blond hair and a Banette completely destroyed her opponent. If my math is correct, she would be my fourth opponent providing she gets that far. An official came in seconds later to call in the next participants. I sat through that battle until finally my turn came.

“Next participants are Brian and Cal.” said the returning official. A boy with medium length reddish brown hair coming out from under a black and red hat rose from his seat.

“Finally.” Cal said stretching. He walked over to me and put his had on my shoulder. “Sorry dude, but you really don’t stand a chance against me. I plan on winning this so no hard feelings right?” he said arrogantly. I stared at him and blinked a few times.

“Ok.” I said uncaringly.

“Really dude? Aw you’re the best! Thanks for understanding.” he said smugly running out to the field. Oh I understand perfectly, you’re a pansy. I turned my head to Axel with a wild look in my eyes.

“I say we rape this little bastard.” I stated just as indifferently as before.

“I like a good rape fest.” the Infernape affirmed. With both stated giggling crazy-evilly as we walked to join our obnoxious opponent. When we arrived on the field the crowd began cheering in anticipation of the battle to come.

“Ladies and Gentlemen! This match will be between Brian and Cal!” shouted the Referee. “Please register the three Pokémon you will use.” I grabbed a Great Ball, a Pokeball, and a dysfunctional ball covered in duct tape (Axel’s) and placed the orbs on a machine for registry. On a score board above the arena three question marked silhouettes appeared under my picture, as was the same for Cal.

“Begin!” declared the Referee. On cue we both threw out our first Pokémon. Well to be accurate, Axel was too heavy to throw, so I morely told him to go kick some ass. However, I don’t think Axel’s victim has an ass being a giant floating purple ice head with two pointy black horns, large blue eyes, and an angry expression. I almost feel bad for the Glalie.

“H-h-hey! Weren’t you going easy on me?” asked my opponent nervously. I wanted to do this later, but I think now would be a good time to break this pansy.

“I said ‘ok’. That means you have to show me I’m no match for you.” I said spitefully.  “That just means I’m kind enough to give you the first move.” I mocked. Cal glared angrily at me across the field.

“Big mistake! Ice Fang Glalie!” commanded my opponent. The Face Pokémon opened its large mouth surrounding its many teeth in ice and frost, then quickly, for a lack of a better word, floated at Axel. The monkey took a defensive stance with his left arm out and his right arm pulled in with both palms facing his adversary. When Glalie was close enough, Axel thrust his arms forward catching the Ice type, who was biting furiously at the Infernape.

“That Pokémon sure looks hungry doesn’t it Axel? Why not give it some Embers to chew on?” I suggested, though we both knew I was telling him to do it. Flamethrower would have just been too cruel at such a close range on an Ice-type. Axel did as instructed spitting numerous small flames into Glalie’s mouth and face. The giant head’s eyes widened as it let out a deafening shriek of agony. The Face Pokémon aborted its attack and pulled away in an effort to escape Axel’s relentless assault. Doing so only set it up for our next move.

“Now Close Combat!” I called. Without missing a beat, the Flame Pokémon was on Glalie hitting it with a barrage of punches and kicks.

“Hey give me a beak dude!” Cal complained.

“Then show me! Back up your big talk from the other room!” I demanded. “You said you were better than me. To me that means I have to let each of my Pokémon go all out so that they don’t get their asses kicked.” Cal looked completely nervous as a pansy like him should in this kind of situation.

“Glalie! Push the Infernape away with Icy Wind!” he called. Not a bad response. The Face Pokémon opened its mouth and blew a bone chilling wind around the field. I pulled my arms close to my body as I could already see my breath. Axel had his arms up to block most of the attack, but was still getting pushed back by the force of the attack. With this distraction, the floating head took the needed time to get as far away from Axel as possible.

“Distance won’t save you from us! Fire Spin Axel!” I commanded. The monkey shot a long stream of fire at the ground beneath Glalie which quickly grew into a spiraling tornado of flames around the Ice-type.

“Glalie! Protect!” Cal shouted desperately. A purple force field that looked like it was made of transparent ice quickly surrounded Glalie. It was all he could do to help his Pokémon in this case, but I was still smarter and knew away around it.

“Feint.” was all I needed to say for Axel to run though his own Fire Spin, put his right fist in his left hand, and use the force of both arms to smash through Glalie’s Protect and elbow the floating purple head between the eyes knocking it out. “Well that was a good warm-up.” commented the Flame Pokémon cracking his knuckles and neck. I should have known; he was just getting started against this weakling.

“Glalie is unable to battle! Who will be the next Pokémon?” asked the Ref to build suspense for the spectators.

“You won’t beat my next Pokémon so easily!” declared Cal sending out another giant floating purple head, or should I say heads, both adorned with a skull and cross bones with toxic fumes emitting from the pores on its body. I’ll believe Axel not beating this Weezing when I see it.

“Let’s keep our game going Axel! Torment!” I called. Axel got a mischievous smirk on his face and started rubbing his palms together in excitement. He did some fancy acrobatics until he was right in front of Weezing, then he jumped on the Poison Gas Pokémon’s “back” and started banging on its heads like a pair of bongos while chanting “We are tormenting you!” The monkey got off Weezing’s “back” and ran back to his spot on the field while laughing like a giddy school girl leaving behind an angry Weezing. I started cracking up despite the situation.

“You think that’s funny?” accused Cal angrily. “I’ll show you funny! Destiny Bond Weezing! Now even if you defeat me I still win!” he declared.

“No you don’t! Taunt!” I commanded before the floating purple heads could get the attack off. Axel stuck out his tongue and held up both middle fingers. Then he started shaking his fists (with the fingers still up) at his opponent. “We are still tormenting you!” Weezing got angrier and launched a Sludge attack instead of what its trainer had ordered. Despite an attempt to avoid the attack, Axel was still struck by the poisonous purplish black goo.

“Man! I just got cleaned last night too!” whined Axel. If that’s all the monkey is complaining about then I guess he hasn’t been poisoned.

“Damn it! Stop limiting my moves!” protested the pansy. My my, aren’t we full of complaints tonight.

“Shoosh you and fight like a man! If you can that is.” I taunted.

“Tormenting!” Axel added obnoxiously.

“Fine, have it your way. At least after all you’ve done, I can only hurt your Infernape.” Cal jeered. “Thunderbolt!” Weezing’s body began crackling with electricity before its body convulsed releasing the stored lighting attack at the Flame Pokémon.

“Fuck me.” Axel said in annoyance looking up at the incoming attack. At the last second he dodge rolled to the side only to get sent rolling faster by the energy release from the impact of the Thunderbolt.

“Hey Axel! Are you still with me?” I inquired to the Infernape who was lying on his belly. He pushed himself up and shook off the dust. “Great. I say we lay this guy out with Combo 8.” I stated.

“Oh that’s a fun one!” the monkey cheered getting in position. The flame on his head intensified as he jumped in the air and began rolling toward the Poison Gas Pokémon. This was no Flame Wheel, though, it was a Flame Wheel combined with Rollout. And not just that, there was a special treat at the end.

“Weezing! Double Hit!” called Cal. The giant siamese head floated at the rolling fireball attempting to hit the spinning monkey only to get run over. “Try again with Sludge!” my opponent commanded. Unfortunately for them, Axel’s rolling speed was just too fast as he rolled right past the purple gunk for another hit. This was so pitiful it was fun! For the finally Axel spun himself into the air, then ended his flaming Rollout with his tail covered in a coat of metal which he slammed between Weezing’s two heads smashing the Poison-type to the ground and fainting it. Yes, the special treat was Iron Tail.

“Ugh… this can’t be happening.” Cal said ashamedly while lowering the rim of his hat over his eyes.

“Oh but it is!” I said widening my eyes for emphasis. I can’t believe this guy was considered one of the 128 best trainers in the world.

“It’s one Pokémon against three now. The battle has become one sided.” the Referee announced.

“It’s all up to you Typhlosion!” Cal said unleashing a bipedal badger with tan fur on its front and dark blue fur running from the top of its head down its back to its ankles. The Pokémon had a large flame around its collar and a mouth full of vicious fangs that were most likely used for shredding meat. The Typhlosion walked up to Axel and looked down at the Infernape. The golden monkey looked up into Typhlosions eyes. I could tell that this bout between Fire-types was going to be a heated match. Pun intended.

“Quick Attack Typhlosion!” shouted Cal breaking the stalemate between the Fire-types. Typhlosion jumped back, then pushed forward again turning into a blur.

“Mach Punch Axel!” I commanded. The Flame Pokémon disappeared in a golden blur flying toward the Volcano Pokémon’s blur. The two Pokémon collided in a violent clash resulting in Axel’s fist in Typhlosion’s stomach and the latter’s head in Axel’s chest. The opposing forces pulled away, each holding their respective wounds.

“Use Fire Punch Typhlosion!” ordered Cal.

“Monkey see, monkey do Axel!” I called. Both adversaries charged eachother with flaming fists, each punching the other in the jaw. “Blaze Kick Axel!” The monkey covered his leg in fire then kneed the badger Pokémon in the gut, then kicked it in the face when it keeled over.

“Come on Typhlosion! Use Swift!” Cal called. The Volcano Pokémon created white stars of energy in its hands and threw them like shurikens at Axel. The Infernape put up his arms in an attempt to block the unblockable with each star bursting on his arms, causing the monkey to wince after every strike.

“Just a bit more! Furry Swipes!” I shouted. Axel threw his hands back then ran at his enemy bringing them forward as he neared Typhlosion and started slashing away.

“He won’t be able to avoid you at this close range! Use Rollout!” Cal said as if he knew what he was doing. Poor misguided Cal. The badger Pokémon leaned forward rolling over the monkey like bowling ball to pins.

“Ow! Son of a bitch!” yelled Axel getting up. “Brian! Give me the order to Counter now!” What point is there to tell me what to tell him?

“Counter.” I said uncaringly. Axel grinned evilly as the rolling Typhlosion came back at him. The Infernape shoved out his arms catching the Volcano Pokémon, then lifted it over his head and threw it into the nearest wall. As Typhlosion stared getting up, Axel took it upon himself to charge his opponent and Mach Punch it in the face KOing it.

“And there goes the battle!” the Ref declared. The crowd went wild with applause and whistles. I held up both my arms victoriously.

“I- I can’t believe I lost.” said Cal in shock.

“I can.” I said matter of factly. “It’s because you’re a smug bastard that thought he could talk someone into losing for them. Tsk tsk.”

“Hey Monkey! Can I get a banana split?” asked Axel.

“For the rape fest you just unleashed, I’m getting you two with Cheri Berries on top!” I said proudly which gave Axel a big smile like a kid in a candy store. I shouldn’t take this victory lightly though; I doubt the rest will be this easy.

Chapter 11: Round 2! Fight!

Once again my match was in the evening, so I spent the day in Prof. Himee’s lab to see what I could learn. That and Himee amuses me. However, it didn’t quite go as I planned. Today was Asuna’s day off, so I had the “privilege” of being the errand boy today.

I ran back to Himee’s lab as fast as I could. He sent me to the store to pick up any Whitney Houston CD that had I Will Always Love You on it, and of course now I had half an hour left before my match. I burst through the door to the laboratory and raced up the spiral staircase.

“Here’syourCD!” I said in one breath quickly handing it off.

“Oh good! I’ve been looking for zhis song for a long time. Now could you pick me up some milk?” he asked.

“No time! Need to get to stadium!” I called jumping off the second floor balcony and barrel rolling so as not to hurt myself.

“Damn. Zhere has to be anozher vay.” I heard him contemplating before I ran through the door again where Axel had been waiting outside.

“Took you long enough.” Axel said sarcastically. I paid the monkey no mind, grabbing a Pokeball from my side and sending out my Aerodactyl.

“To the stadium!” I commanded hopping on his back with Axel. To get there from the sky was a lot faster than running to the arena. I had the prehistoric Pokémon descend as we got closer so I could jump off safely and call him back as I ran to the rest area with five minutes to spare.

“Damn.” I sighed taking a seat to wait for my name to be called. At least Prof. Himee agreed to pay me for being his runner today. I’ll probably stop by after my battle to pick up my $50.

“Brian. Katelyn. You two are up.” said the official. My turn already?

“Ready to kick some ass tonight?” asked Axel getting battle ready.

“I am, you’re not.” I said straightforwardly.

“What!?” yelled the Infernape in shock.

“You thrashed our opponent last night. We gotta let the rest of your teammates have the spotlight once and awhile.” I explained. Axel crossed his arms and looked away grumbling with a sulking look on his face. I think I’ll just let him brood for awhile, the battle is starting.

“The second to last match tonight will be between Katelyn and Brian! Please register your Pokémon!” shouted the announcer. I placed a Pokeball and two Great Balls on the registry machine and like last night, my picture and the picture of my opponent, a female with short strait black hair and tanned skin, came on the screen with three question marked silhouettes representing the Pokémon we were using came on the big screen.

“Let’s make this a fun match.” Katelyn said cheerfully with a smile. Finally, an opponent who isn’t a complete dick weed.

“I agree.” I nodded unhinging the Pokeball containing my first Pokémon as she got hers ready. The second the Referee said ‘Go!’ we unleashed our chosen Pokémon. Riolu appeared ready to once again prove himself in combat. His opponent this time was a green frog with yellow toes, small pink cheeks, and a strange curly hair sticking out of its head. The size of the Politoed’s cheeks indicated it to be female.

“You’re using the infant over me? Not my fault if you lose.” Axel complained. I ignored him. We both knew that for only being six months old Riolu was one tough little Pokémon. Whether that had anything to do with being a Fighting-type or being able to sense and use aura or a combination of both, I don’t care. He does what is needed and that’s all I ask. Besides, Axel hates fighting Water-types.

“Politoed! Bounce!” called Katelyn initiating the first move. The Frog Pokémon crouched low and pushed itself high in the air with its powerful leg muscles.

“Detect Riolu.” I said calmly. Riolu closed his eyes trying to sense exactly when and where Politoed would land. I looked up watching gravity take its toll on Politoed who came falling right above Riolu. On queue, the Emanation Pokémon opened his eyes and jumped out of the way leaving Politoed to land butt first on solid ground.

“Now Force Palm Rio!” I called. Riolu spun around to face his opponent then thrust his glowing blue right hand into her, pushing the Frog Pokémon back a few feet with a powerful burst of aura.

“Try a Body Slam Politoed!” Katelyn called. Politoed jumped forward landing belly first on top of Riolu. It was quite disturbing when the amphibian started wiggling around.

“Riolu! Counter!” I shouted. A WTF look appeared on Politoed’s face as it began rising off the ground as Riolu pushed up lifting the Frog Pokémon over his head. Then he threw Politoed and punched her for good measure followed by shaking his arms from the exertion. Politoed got back up and faced her young adversary.

“Try and counter this attack! BubbleBeam!” commanded Katelyn. The amphibian opened her mouth unleashing a flurry of transparent bubbles at Riolu.

“Hear that Rio? She challenged us. Pop the bubbles with Bullet Punch!” I called. The Emanation Pokémon began a rapid assault against the bubbles with his fists. Several got through and hit him, but Riolu managed to pop the majority of them. “Well done!” I complemented.

“That was pretty impressive.” Katelyn acknowledged. “But let’s see if you can do the same with Hydro Pump!” The Frog Pokémon opened her mouth wider than before and shot a river of water comparable to a fire hose at Riolu.

“Quick Attack!” I commanded urgently. Riolu dodged out of the way of the gushing water, disappearing into a blue blur as he circled around Politoed and attacked from behind abruptly stopping the Hydro Pump.

“I’ll admit you got me there, but can your Riolu stand up to my Politoed’s Psychic?” my foe taunted.

“Probably not.” I said humbly. “But he sure as hell can try!”

“I’ll be completely outclassed if he does. Use Psychic Politoed!” she ordered. The amphibian’s eyes began glowing blue and that same blue glow surrounded Riolu as he was lifted into the air.

“Riolu! Endure!” I called. Riolu nodded closing his eyes and crossing his arms to use every ounce of power he had in staying conscious. Politoed violently threw Riolu to the ground and released her hold on the young Pokémon. Moment of truth here. When the dust cleared, Riolu was still standing although completely worn out and covered in scrapes and bruises.

“That’s it Rio. Just hang in there a little longer.” I encouraged.

“So I’m completely outclassed. That is one tough Riolu. I’ll just have to try harder if I’m to beat it! He can’t go on much longer after that!” Katelyn mused. “Finish it with Ice Beam!” The Frog Pokémon opened her mouth again firing a blast of cold breath crystallizing all the water molecules in the air into a solid stream of ice aimed right for the Emanation Pokémon.

“Monkey declares Agility followed by Cross Chop!” I commanded. In the blink of an eye, the Ice Beam passed through an after image of Riolu as he was already half way to his target with his arms crossed in an X in front of him. The Frog Pokémon stopped her attack looking down as Riolu was now right under her thrusting his arms into her throat. The amphibian’s eyes widened to there full size as she choked out her last breath and collapsed. Attacking a pressure point; how strategic.

“What did you do to Politoed!?” Katelyn panicked.

“Relax. My Pokémon know how to deliver debilitating but not fatal blows to opponents. Your Politoed will be fine. Her neck may be sore for awhile, but she’ll live.” I reassured. Katelyn looked relieved, but quickly got serious as she called back Politoed.

“Atleast your Riolu won’t be giving me any more trouble after this. Your turn Honchkrow!” shouted Katelyn sending out a robust looking bird covered in dusk black feathers with red feathers lining the wings and tail, a white chest, and a witch hat shaped head. The Honchkrow spread its wings wide with an intimidating caw upon emerging.

“You’re right, Riolu won’t be fighting any more, but not because you defeated him. Rio, time to exit stage left. Return.” I said holding out his Pokeball. The Emanation Pokémon materialized into a red light as he was sucked back into his protective capsule. I then got one of the Great Balls ready. “Come Vaporeon!” I summoned. A streamlined blue marine mammal with a fish tail and fin-like ears, head crest, and collar came on to the field stretching his paws forward before getting in a sitting position. My Vaporeon; I caught him early in my journey as an Eevee and evolved him as soon as I got a Water Stone. This Vaporeon also fathered my Espeon. It’s been awhile since I used him, I hope he hasn’t gotten rusty.

“Why must you have so many cute Pokémon?” asked Katelyn with that ‘OMG so kyut!’ expression girls are prone to.

“Cause I do.” I said blankly. “So are you going to attack or should I?”

“Oh, right. Honchkrow! Shadow Ball!” she commanded. The crow began gathering power from all the surrounding shadows in the arena to fuel an ever growing ball of darkness. It didn’t help matters that it was night, and even with the blinding floodlights, there were more shadows than during the day. When the Shadow Ball had reached the desired size, Honchkrow launched it at its target.

“This may be completely mean, but meh. Tear through Shadow Ball with Ice Beam!” I called. The Bubble Jet Pokémon solidified vapor in the air into a frozen beam blasting at the ghostly attack creating an explosion of darkness and ice. That was unexpected, I thought the Ice Beam would have pierced the Shadow Ball and struck Honchkrow. That attack was stronger than I anticipated. “We must be careful with this one Vaporeon.” I warned.

“Now Wing Attack!” I heard Katelyn call through the still lingering smoke from our attacks. The Big Boss Pokémon emerged from the haze smacking Vaporeon in the right flank hard with its wing. It shouldn’t have gotten so close.

“Push it away with Hydro Pump!” I yelled eagerly. I didn’t even see Vaporeon initiate the attack, all I saw was the crow getting carried to the other side of the field on a torrent of water leading back to my marine mammal. Honchkrow crashed into the wall behind its trainer with the force of a raging river.

“Honchkrow!” Katelyn cried as the water died down causing the bird to fall into a puddle that formed beneath it. Don’t tell me it’s over already. Honchkrow slowly picked itself back up and shook the water from its ruffled feathers. That’s more like it! “So you like playing rough huh? I think I can match you. Sky Attack!” commanded my opponent. Honchkrow flew into the air as it started gathering energy causing to get an eerie white glow.

“This attack may be painful Vaporeon. I suggest we start up an Aqua Ring to heal some of the damage.” I advised. The Bubble Jet Pokémon spun in a circle spraying a Water Gun creating a halo of water around himself. Thanks to his Water Absorb ability, simple touching the ring will heal some of his wounds.

Honchkrow had just finished charging its attack and dive bombed Vaporeon with a loud caw leaving a ghostly white stream of its energy in its wake. That was definitely freaky looking. Vaporeon braced himself as the crow came inches from his head and struck violently. The marine mammal cried out in pain from the impact, then absorbed his Aqua Ring to restore some of his energy.

“Bite ‘em Vaporeon!” I called. Vaporeon got a mouth full of feathers as he chomped down on Honchkrow’s wing. The bird cawed in annoyance.

“Oh yeah? Peck its eyes out Honchkrow!” retorted Katelyn. Vaporeon closed his eyes tightly and turned his head as the Big Boss Pokémon assaulted him with its beak. Vaporeon released his hold on Honchkrow and the latter flew back to its side of the arena. This is getting pretty entertaining!

“Vaporeon! Water Pulse!” I commanded. The Bubble Jet Pokémon did as told spitting a shockwave of H2O at his foe.

“Cancel it with Dark Pulse!” Katelyn countered. The crow gathered more shadows, then scattered them with a loud caw. The water and darkness collided midfield causing the respective elements to disperse in all directions. While Honchkrow received no damage by getting splashed with a few harmless particles of water and shadow, Vaporeon was healed, if only a little by the water droplets landing on his skin. Axel yelped and jumped back as a few drops landed on him as well.

“Not… bad…” I said cracking my neck. “But now I’m afraid I’m going to have to defeat your magnificent Flying Pokémon if I plan on winning anytime soon. Aurora Beam!” I called. The marine mammal launched a semi-transparent blast of green, purple, red, and blue that weaved down the arena like the Aurora Borealis.

“Sorry to disappoint you, but I’m not done just yet! Dodge it with Fly!” called Katelyn. Honchkrow launched itself into the sky just barely avoiding Vaporeon’s beautiful attack.

“I wonder, how many licks does it take to get to the tootsie roll center of a tootsie pop?” I said randomly.

“What?” asked Katelyn in confusion. Honchkrow began its decent.

“The answer, Two! Vaporeon! Sand-Attack!” I commanded. Just as the bird was near ground level, Vaporeon smacked his fish tail across the ground sending dust into Honchkrow’s eyes impairing its vision. The crow cawed as it veered off course and crashed into the ground. “That’s one lick, and… well forget the second, I think Honchkrow KOed itself when it crashed to the ground.” I said looking at the fainted crow.

“What… What the hell was that?” Katelyn shouted in frustration.

“I’d like to know that myself. I have a very random mind, and sometimes I don’t even know where stuff comes from.” I said flatly. Katelyn looked completely at a loss for words by my statement. She then shook the randomness aside and put her focus back on the battle by removing her downed Honchkrow from the field and readying her last Pokémon.

“Whatever, I can still beat you.” she said confidently.

“Are you sure? Riolu was never technically defeated, so in a weird sense it’s three against one.” I pointed out. “Anyway, I hope we can continue having a fun battle.”

“Yeah me too. It’s your turn Gardevoir!” An elegant white Pokémon with a body that flowed like a dress, thin green arms that were proportionally similar to humans, and green hair growing down around the face and neck graced the arena. I really hope that that Pokémon is female. I can’t help but pity male Gardevoirs.

“Tell me, is Gardevoir’s ability Trace or Synchronize?” I inquired.

“Wouldn’t you like to know.” Katelyn taunted. That doesn’t really tell me anything. She’s either baiting me to attack with a water move that would heal Gardevoir because it Traced Water Absorb, or she’s trying to hide the fact that the ability is Synchronize so that I won’t attack with water moves for fear that it’s Trace. Clever.

“I would like to know, and the best way I can do that is with Aqua Tail!” I commanded. Vaporeon began excreting water from the pores on his tail creating a thin layer of the life giving liquid around the appendage. He then ran up to the Embrace Pokémon and spun around to smack his opponent. The Psychic winced from the attack meaning the move caused it pain meaning its ability is Synchronize. “Thank you, I got the information I was looking for.” I thanked.

“Don’t go thanking me yet! Give them a taste of ThunderBolt Gardevoir!” shouted Katelyn. EEP! And another EEP! The Embrace Pokémon’s body began sparking with electricity as it called upon the attack. Gardevoir tensed its muscles releasing the powerful lightning move into the air where it curved around aimed for my aquatic creature. Vaporeon jumped back just as the ThunderBolt struck, but was sent flying by the explosion caused by the impact on the ground which sent dust and the smell of ozone into the air. The Bubble Jet Pokémon staggered weakly back to his feet.

“It’s not over yet! Vaporeon! Use Hydro Pump on yourself!” I called. Vaporeon tilted his head to the sky then spewed a great surge off water into the sky that went up about halfway to the top of the stadium before raining down back onto the field. As Vaporeon bathed in his self created shower, his injuries disappeared from his body like they never existed. The rejuvenated Vaporeon stretched his paws forward and yawned as if waking up from a refreshing nap.

“Interesting strategy.” Katelyn complemented.

“Combat is my specialty.” I said bowing. “I live for the trill of a challenge against strong opponents like yourself Miss Katelyn. The stronger they are the more fun I have.”

“Well aren’t you sweet.” said my adversary playfully.

“You won’t be calling me sweet after this. Body Slam Vaporeon!” I called. The marine mammal charged Gardevoir preparing his physical assault.

“Defend with Psychic!” commanded Katelyn. The Embrace Pokémon’s eyes took a purple glow and soon Vaporeon had that same glow around his body as he was lifted off the ground before getting thrown through the air back to his starting point. He landed on his side and slid a few feet before stopping.

“If you’re going to take a beating like that, then I suggest you create another Aqua Ring.” I said as Vaporeon stood. “And make this on last.” I added. The Bubble Jet Pokémon created another water halo around himself to constantly feed him energy for this battle.

“Even with an Aqua Ring you won’t survive this! Use Magical Leaf!” Katelyn called. The Psychic crossed its green arms around its torso, the quickly threw them out sending a barrage of rainbow colored leaves at Vaporeon. “And to plan ahead, Future Sight!”

“Icy Wind!” I commanded. I’d rather stick to the here and now and worry about Future Sight later. Vaporeon blew cold air from his mouth creating snow particles and ice chunks in the attacks range. By the time the leaves struck the Bubble Jet Pokémon, all were frozen and had lost the majority of their velocity rendering them harmless. The Icy Wind continued until it stuck the creator of the previous attack. Katelyn looked as if she was beginning to get frustrated. So long as Vaporeon could produce water, he could continue to regenerate.

“This could take awhile.” Katelyn said as if she was planning something. “Gardevoir! Use Wish!” The Psychic put its hands together and began chanting something in its own tongue. I see, with both our Pokémon healing themselves, there will be no end to our battle. Excellent! The only difference is, Vaporeon can recover instantly while it usually takes a minute for Wish to take effect.

“I’ll just have to end this in the next 57 seconds then won’t I? Vaporeon! Brine!” I commanded. The aquatic creature blasted a steady steam of water at Gardevoir’s feet which spiraled beneath the Embrace Pokémon’s feet before exploding upward in a violent splash.

“We won’t loose so easily ya know! Double Team!” my opponent gloated. Soon one Gardevoir was ten, and with only 30 seconds left, I didn’t have the time to go through all of them.

“I don’t want to win so easily! Surf’s up Vaporeon!” I retorted. An enormous tidal wave erupted from under the stadium, flowed over Vaporeon, and rushed over the Gardeviors dissolving all the copies. When the water receded, Gardevoir was lying face down in a puddle. The Psychic stirred a bit and started weakly pushing itself back up. Damn! Only 10 seconds left!

“Quick Attack now Vaporeon!” I called with increased desperation. Vaporeon dashed at his target as fast as his legs could take him. To ensure his victory, the Bubble Jet Pokémon bit Gardevoir upon collision. All of a sudden a giant purple meteor of Psychic energy fell from the sky and crashed into Vaporeon as if it was homed in on him. Of course! How could I have forgotten the Future Sight? When the dust from the impact cleared, both Pokémon lay on the ground. My heart raced in anticipation for the result of this outstanding showdown.

“Both Gardevoir and Vaporeon are unable to continue! By default the winner is Brian for having two Pokémon remaining!” declared the Ref. I sighed in relief and smiled at the narrow win.

“If only Future Sight had hit even a second sooner. Then Wish would have taken effect and I would have still had a chance of winning.” Katelyn lamented.

“Don’t feel bad. You were a very challenging adversary, worthy of being called one of the strongest 128 people in the world.” I complemented wiping sweat from my brow. “If Vaporeon didn’t have the Water Absorb ability he would never have lasted as long, even with Aqua Ring. I would have been forced to use my Donphan had he lost, and who knows how that would have gone.”

“Thanks Brian.” said Katelyn happily. “You are a great trainer, and I’ll be sure to train hard so that next time I can kick your ass.”

“I’m glad I didn’t get in the middle of that. Every one of her Pokémon would have owned me.” Axel said shamefully as we left the stadium.

“See. I told you, you have to let your partners fight every once and awhile.” I said.

Chapter 12: Third Round Tough Guys

“Himee! You in there?” I asked knocking on the only wooden door in the lab found on the third floor. This was Prof. Himee’s loft.

“Vhat? Vhat is it? Who’s zhere? I’m busy! Go avay!” he shouted from the other side of the door.

“It’s Brian. I got your milk.” I called back lifting the bag. No sooner had the words left my mouth I heard movement as the old man scrambled to the door. I was completely shocked to hear a deadbolt as Himee unlocked the door and opened it to greet me.

“Ah fresh calcium!” the professor cheered grabbing the bag from my hand. “Vould you like to join me for some Fruit Loops tomorrow for breakfast?” he offered.

“I’ll join you for breakfast, but I’m bring the Lucky Charms I have stashed in my hotel room.” I replied. Prof. Himee’s face lit up with excitement.

“I love Lucky Charms! Zhey’re Magically Delicious you know!” said Himee gleefully.

“I know! I always eat the cereal first so that I have a bowl full of marshmallows at the end.” I agreed.

“Apple Cinnamon Cheerios!” shouted Axel holding up his hand. I high fived the monkey with a big grin. Hell yeah for a conversation on cereal.
-----------------------------

After a delightful breakfast with Himee the next morning, I left for the stadium. Rounds three and four were today so if all went well I’d have two matches and be moving on to the quarter finals tomorrow. If things don’t go well… well I won’t bother with what ifs.

“We started with 128. In just three short days this number has dropped to 32. Which of these skilled trainers will make it to the final eight? Find out today!” cried the announcer into a microphone to pump up the audience.

“Anyone who’s been following this tournament would already know that much, genius.” I mocked silently. What made things worse was that I was last match of this round and the next.

“Wanna play some Poker to buy time?” asked Axel already searching my backpack for my deck.

“You are so going down Monkey boy.” I answered confidently.
----------------------

I was getting strange looks from the people around me. I don’t know if it was because all six of my Pokémon were out playing poker with me, or because I was losing.

I looked up from yet another sucky hand, consisting of the 2 of clubs, 5 of clubs, 4 of diamonds, king of hearts, and 7 of spades. I looked up at the match list on the screen and grinned in sweet delight.

“Game over. We’re up next.” I said throwing down my cards.

“You’re just a sore loser.” taunted the Infernape with a cocky look.

“If you want to fight next round you’ll be a good monkey.” I reminded. Axel froze for a few seconds slowly turning his head to me.

“Well what are you waiting for? Put the deck away!” he demanded taking the cards from the other Pokémon and throwing them at me. I picked up the five usable Pokeballs to return their respective Pokémon before gathering the cards and putting them in the box.

“Brian. Goliath. You’re up next.” said the official sent to get me and my opponent just as I threw the deck in my backpack. Goliath?

“Hey there little man!” said a giant beast of a man with huge rock solid muscles staring down at me with hard black eyes. I’m a pretty tall guy standing at six feet even, however this behemoth had to be seven or eight feet given that I actually had to look up at him, and he was at least as wide as a tree. Oh how I wished my name was David right now. “Let’s make it interesting.” he said.

“Uhhh sure…” I said nervously. When I win I’m going to have to run like hell, Goliath could break me like a twig. As before, the official led us to the field, the spectators cheered, we registered our Pokémon, and then awaited the referee to say the word.

“Begin!” the Ref declared. On his word the two of us launched our Pokémon. From my Great Ball came the snow covered conifer shape of my Snover. On Goliath’s end a short brown man with broad shoulder pads wearing a purple skirt with matching shoes and red boxing gloves appeared.

“Hold on!” I shouted calling back my Snover.

“An abrupt Pokémon change! That one must not have been the right choice.” announced the referee. Of course it wasn’t, I had someone better suited to fight Hitmonchan.

“Let’s try this again with Hitmonlee!” I called summoning the solid brown creature with concave black eyes with white irises, long but underdeveloped arms, and huge feet that could break through anything attached to spring loaded legs that could stretch for several feet.

“So that’s what you were doing. I gotta say Little Man, you sure are making this exciting.” Goliath remarked. “But let’s see you keep it up. Hitmonchan! Comet Punch!” The Punching Demon jumped at Hitmonlee with one arm extended and the other one bent for a quick strike.

“Defense!” I commanded. Hitmonlee put his arms up with his palms facing out to block the rapid punches Hitmonchan was about to dish out. The latter Pokémon began to fire off multiple punches in quick succession, each of which my fighter blocked with his palms no matter where they were aimed.

“Now Double Kick Hitmonlee!” I called. This time it was Hitmonchan who took a defensive pose as the Kicking Fiend launched two bone crushing kicks from each of his powerful legs, the force of the blows pushing Hitmonchan back a bit. “Meditate now.” I said. The Kicking Pokémon closed his eyes and put his hands together in a cup shape.

“Get ‘em with Fire Punch!” yelled Goliath. The Puching Pokémon’s right fist ignited into a bright orange flame as he charged at my seemingly vulnerable Hitmonlee.

“Hitmonlee! Blaze Kick!” I shouted. Hitmonlee quickly opened his eyes, then threw his left foot forward about three feet at such a speed that it too ignited into an orange flame. Hitmonchan thrust his fist forward to meet his rival’s foot. The two fiery appendages met center field creating a spectacular inferno as the fires mixed into one.

“Close Combat!” Goliath and I shouted at the exact same time. In the middle of the arena the two Fighting-types engaged in a fierce show of strength by blocking and dodging their opponent’s attacks while simultaneously countering with their own. To put it simply, Hitmonlee looked as if he were floating because of how fast his legs were going, and Hitmonchan looked like he didn’t have arms. At the same time, both Pokémon’s upper bodies were moving back and forth in an attempt to avoid the other’s hits.

“This battle has been intense since the word go!” the Referee cried. I couldn’t have put it better myself. These Fighting Pokémon were insane!

“Rolling Kick!” I commanded to break the stalemate. The Kicking Fiend planted his left foot, then pivoted on it smashing his right foot into the Punching Pokémon’s side.

“Use Ice Punch Hitmonchan!” Goliath called. The Punching Demon pulled back his left arm and began forming a thin layer of ice around the red glove. He then drove his fist into Hitmonlee’s abdomen. The Kicking Pokémon staggered back with his hand over his injury but was luckily not frozen.

“Hitmonlee! Jump Kick!” I called. The fighter jumped forward in the air with one of his long legs extended to hit his adversary.

“Detect his movement Hitmonchan!” shouted Goliath. Hitmonchan took a defensive stance and began bouncing on the balls of his feet ready to move aside when Hitmonlee got close so that he’d crash into a wall. Too bad it won’t work.

“Feint!” I yelled. Just as the Kicking Pokémon was about to land his Jump Kick, Hitmonchan jumped out of the way as predicted. Hitmonlee then threw his leg to the ground causing him to slide and leave a gash in the surface. Then he spun on his heel using his momentum to catch the Punching Demon in the back with his opposite heel.

“Counter!” commanded Goliath. Hitmonchan quickly recovered and punched Hitmonlee in what would be his face.

“Revenge!” I called. The Kicking Fiend slammed his knee into his rival’s stomach.

“Also use Revenge!” Goliath countered. The Punching Pokémon delivered a devastating right hook to the side of Hitmonlee’s head sending him flying. The kicker slid down the arena back to his starting point. Hitmonlee stood up and wiped his face like nothing had happened before getting back into his fighting stance.

“That’s what I’m talking about! Focus Energy Hitmonlee!” I shouted. Hitmonlee crouched putting his head between his fists and began summoning all of his inner strength.

“While he’s doing that use Focus Punch Hitmonchan!” Goliath called. Hitmonchan took the same stance as his opponent enveloping his gloved fists in bright white energy.

“This is our chance! Hit him with Super Power!” I yelled. The Kicking Fiend’s body turned red, heating up to the point where steam was coming off of him, then he stretched his leg to its maximum length.

“Hitmonchan! Dodge with Agility!” shouted the giant. Hitmonlee swung his leg down guillotine style, only for it to pass through an after image of the Punching Demon leaving a large crater in the ground. Hitmonchan reappeared next to Hitmonlee’s leg as the Kicking Pokémon retracted it back to its normal length. The Punching Pokémon was unable to move having had his move interrupted. He’s a sitting duck!

“Hitmonlee! Hi-Jump Kick!” I commanded. The Fighting-type jumped higher in the air this time then he did before and flew at his opponent, landing his hit to Hitmonchan’s jaw sending the Punching Pokémon flying into a wall. Hitmonchan picked himself up and wiped some blood from his lip with the back of his glove.

“Hitmonchan! Sky Uppercut!” Goliath called. The Punching Demon ran at Hitmonlee, only to stop in front of him and duck. Hitmonchan then threw his fist into the air as he jumped bringing Hitmonlee with him. The Kicking Pokémon flew backwards and landed on his back as his attacker landed neatly on his feet. “Now finish him with Mega Punch!” shouted Goliath triumphantly.

“Hitmonlee! Counter with Mega Kick!” I shouted. Hitmonlee jumped off the ground and sent a glowing white foot at Hitmonchan while the other Fighting Pokémon lobbed a glowing white fist at his rival. The two attacks clashed in a bright light that made the crowd awe. When the light returned to normal Hitmonlee had a fist in his face and Hitmonchan had a foot in his face. Both Hitmons were struggling under the force of the other’s blow but both were too proud to admit defeat and break away from their dead lock. It was up to the trainers to decide this spectacular match.

“Reversal Hitmonlee!” I called. Hitmonlee grabbed Hitmonchan’s arm and flipped the Punching Demon onto his back knocking him out. Hitmonlee looked down at his fallen foe with respect. I sighed in relief as the epic battle closed. But it wasn’t over yet, that was only Goliath’s first Pokémon.

“Exciting first round Little Man.” Goliath said jovially. “But let’s see how you handle my Swampert!” Goliath through down an Ultra Ball releasing a large blue Pokémon with pointed orange cheeks, dark blue fins above each eye and one running down its back like a tail, and two massive arms. Unlike Swampert who was completely fresh, Hitmonlee could barely stand and was covered in numerous cut, scrapes, and bruises including a black eye. It would be completely irresponsible to leave him out.

“Hitmonlee return. You’re back up Snover!” I said rotating my Pokémon. My Frost Tree Pokémon seemed delighted to be back out. The clear afternoon sky suddenly became heavily overcast as snow and hail began to fall from the sky. A very odd phenomenon for the beginning of July that I doubt the people in the audience were dressed appropriately for. I felt the cold air, but I didn’t have it so bad standing next to a Fire-type.

“Swampert! Take Down!” Goliath called. The Mud Fish Pokémon firmly planted its powerful arms on the ground and pushed off, flying at Snover like a torpedo. The collision knocked both Pokémon to the ground. Swampert was the first to get back up followed a second later by Snover.

“While it’s in close, use Wood Hammer!” I called. The Frost Tree Pokémon swung his arm wildly into Swampert’s exposed torso. The amphibious Pokémon’s eyes widened in pain at the highly super-effective hit. It was further abused by a falling chunk of hail.

“Swampert! Get some distance and use Muddy Water!” commanded my behemoth opponent. Swampert did as instructed by putting a good many feet between itself and my conifer, then summoned a huge sediment filled tidal wave which over swept the field pushing Snover back by its force. As the water receded, it created a thin layer of ice on the ground thanks to the freezing temperatures that surrounded the arena.

“Snover! Restore your energy with Ingrain!” I yelled. Snover firmly planted his root like feet on the ground. The duel-type’s feet then burst open releasing even smaller roots strong enough to penetrate the frozen ground and gather the nutrients in the soil below at the cost of not being able to move.

“I’d like to see that strategy of yers work when there isn’t any solid ground to stand on! Use Earthquake Swampert!” shouted Goliath proudly. Swampert rose up on its hind legs then slammed its powerful fists to the ground sending earth shattering tremors down the field. The stadium floor exploded as the shock waves passed under it in all directions turning a formally flat surface into a terrain of jagged rocks jutting out of the surface. The Frost Tree Pokémon looked like an evergreen planted on the side of a cliff with some of his roots on the edge with the rest hanging out to the side completely exposed. At least Swampert was repaid with another chunk of hail.

“Icy Wind Snover!” I called. The snow covered tree pushed his arms forward and began directing all the falling ice and snow at the Mud Fish Pokémon in one cold wintery wind.

“Bide through it Swampert!” Goliath commanded. The amphibious Pokémon crossed its arms and began absorbing the attack. That is not something I’m going to let them get away with.

“I would rather not do this, but hey, victory is victory. Snover! Grasswhistle!” I shouted. Snover put his hands to where I guess his mouth would be and started blowing between his fingers creating a soothing melody. To keep myself and Axel awake, I punched him and had the monkey punch me. I could see Swampert’s eyes flickering as the Mud Fish Pokémon swayed from side to side before finally collapsing into slumber. “Now use Ice Shard!” I called. Snover punched an incoming chunk of hail causing it to shatter and send the remnants at his sleeping foe.

“Nice try, but it won’t work! Swampert knows Sleep Talk!” boasted Goliath. In its sleeping state Swampert glowed red and unleashed his pent up energy in a single punch dealing heavy damage to Snover. The Frost Tree Pokémon was panting in quick raspy breaths.

“Just hang in there a little longer Snover. You can still win.” I encouraged. “Use Razor Leaf!” Several blade like leaves fell from Snover’s “hat” and flew at Swampert like heat seeking missiles, each leaf slicing at the amphibious Pokémon’s cold skin. Ouch.

Without needing a command from Goliath, the Mud Fish Pokémon activated its own Sleep Talk using Aqua Tail. Swampert subconsciously charged at Snover, smacking the conifer like Pokémon with its tail covered in a thin layer of water. Another clump of hail woke Swampert from its nap.

“This is getting ridiculous now. Finish the job with Giga Drain!” I commanded. Snover threw his arms forward sending out two green vines of energy from each hand which latched on to Swampert and began transferring its strength to the Frost Tree Pokémon. Swampert lifted its arm to block the attack but it ultimately failed and collapsed. By this point Snover’s breathing sounded like he was hyperventilating.

“Hey Snover. Are you ok?” I asked anxiously. As soon as I finished the sentance, Snover cried out and began glowing. The white light produced by his body shot up into the air more than double the Frost Tree Pokémon’s height and began to warp into a new shape. The glowing light dispersed falling around the new Pokémon like the snow around him. The creature that stood before me now was a tall thick white monster with green feet and hands, green spike running down his back to his tail, pointed eyebrows above pink eyes, and shingles hanging over his mouth, chest, and back.

“Amazing! Brian’s Snover just evolved into an Abomasnow! You saw it here folks! The first ever evolution in White City Stadium!” the Referee cheered. The spectators were going nuts with applause and whistles. I made sort of a cocky look. After all, it was my Pokémon that evolved.

“Congrats Little Man.” Goliath congratulated. “But don’t think you’ve won yet! Finish this guy off Ursaring!” From a white Premiere Ball with a red stripe on it, came a hulking brown grizzly bear with a lighter brown circle on its chest and was armed with long sharp claws. The giant bear roared upon entry showing off its powerful flesh ripping teeth while lifting its massive arms to the sky. A smaller chunk of hail struck one of Ursaring’s paws casing the Hibernator Pokémon to stare daggers at the sky.

“I agree Ursaring. Get rid of this annoying weather with Sunny Day!” commanded Goliath. Ursaring created a white ball of energy in its paw then threw it to the sky where it intensified the sunlight hidden behind the hail storm. Immediately the cold precipitation ended with the scattering of the clouds allowing bright sunlight to penetrate through. After the clouds we had had the past ten minutes, the sun was kind of blinding forcing me to squint and put my arm to my eyes.

“How are you doing Abomasnow?” I inquired. I got a positive reply from my Pokémon. “Good. Let’s try out your new Ice Punch!” I called after looking up possible changes to his move list in my Pokedex. The Frost Tree Pokémon gathered water vapor from his surroundings to his fist turning it into a ball of ice. Abomasnow then stampeded over the shattered ground toward Ursaring and punched it in the center of the circle on its front. The Hibernation Pokémon did not look impressed.

“Teach Abomasnow a lesson with Fire Punch!” my giant foe ordered. One of Ursaring’s mighty paws ignited into an elegant red-orange flame which was then smashed into Abomasnow’s face with the power of a falling tree. The abominable snowman cried in agony putting his hands to his burned face.

“Use Bullet Seed Abomasnow!” I yelled. The Frost Tree Pokémon produced numerous brown walnut shaped seeds and began throwing them at Ursaring as if they were grenades.

“Ursaring! Furry Swipes!” shouted Goliath. The Hibernator Pokémon slashed through all the seeds thrown at it with its powerful claws. “Abomasnow shouldn’t have much left. Finish it with Rock Smash!” The great bear looked around the destroyed field for a second or two until deciding to pick up the largest of the loose fragments of the arena. Ursaring then smashed the boulder sized segment over the Frost Tree Pokémon’s head rendering him unconscious. Or concussed, but I have to call him back anyway so I’ll worry about technicalities later.

“The show is all yours Donphan!” I called summoning a grey elephant with black armor running from his rear to the tip of his trunk and ears and two long tusks coming from its mouth. Donphan lifted his trunk to the air trumpeting loudly letting all who heard him know he would win. He is a bit off a show off. “Avenge the fallen Donphan! Magnitude!” The Armor Pokémon stomped the ground with such force that it began shaking again leaving more damage in its wake. On the scale of one to ten, I’d give this one a seven, however it was strong enough to make Ursaring lose its balance and fall on its ass. I started giggling silently to myself. That made my day.

“Hit it with Metal Claw Ursaring!” commanded Goliath. The grizzly got up with a not so happy look on its face. Its pearl white claws turned a metallic silver as it roared and tore down the field.

“Defense Curl!” I shouted quickly. Donphan curled up into a ball just as Ursaring swiped its hardened claws across the elephant’s thick hide, not even leaving a scratch. “Now use Rollout Donphan!” While still balled up, the Armor Pokémon pulled back then barreled forward once again knocking the bear off its feet. Donphan rolled down the arena, then turned around hitting Ursaring once again before busting through a jutting boulder.

“Catch it with Seismic Toss!” Goliath yelled. As Donphan came back around for his third strike, the Hibernator Pokémon held out its palms preparing to catch him. Donphan plowed into his adversary, pushing the bear back a few feet before the two finally came to a stop. Usaring lifted the elephant off the ground and threw him down the field with the latter, still being in his Defense Curl, leaving a crater upon impact.

“Because I have a sweet tooth for destruction, you are going to use Earthquake Donphan!” I commanded. Donphan unballed by pushing himself in the air then landing with all of his weight and strength sending violent tremors down the already ruined arena. I couldn’t help but laugh maniacally at the sweetness of it all.

“You are such a bipolar battler. I love you.” Axel said happily.

“Thrash ‘im Ursaring!” called Goliath. The grizzly bear through itself into a berserk frenzy and began wildly clawing at Donphan.

“Donphan! Fury Attack!” I countered. Donphan rammed his tusks into Ursaring’s torso repeatedly shaking his head from side to side to do the most damage. In its out of control state, the Hibernator Pokémon could do nothing more than attack madly.

“Now use Slam!” I continued. The Armor Pokémon threw his entire body into his rampaging opponent. Ursaring was now panting heavily looking as if it was beginning to wear out.

“Take a Rest now Ursaring!” said Goliath rewardingly. I watched in annoyance as my almost eminent victory took a snooze.

“Go wild Donphan! Ancientpower!” I shouted. Donphan voiced his unsatisfaction with the opposition’s actions in a loud trumpet. The sound also caused all the loose stones on the scarred ground to rise then fly at the sleeping bear.

“Use Snore Ursaring!” shouted Goliath. Oh, of course. The Hibernator Pokémon began snoring so loudly that the sound waves actually shook the field.

“Woah that’s loud!” I yelled holding my ears.

“What?” cried Axel also holding his ears. When the noise stopped, I stuck my pinkie in my ear to clear it out.

“Right then. Use Earth Power next!” I called. The Armor Pokémon dug his face into the loose ground, and with a powerful upward thrust, sent a tidal wave of dirt and sand at his adversary. Ursaring awoke with the same unimpressed look it’s had all battle. Donphan and I agreed, this creature must go down.

“Welcome back Ursaring. Have a nice nap?” asked Goliath. If there was any hint of mockery, it was for me. “Carry on with Slash!” The Hibernator Pokémon yawn-roared, then charged at Donphan. When in range, it slashed across the elephant’s vulnerable flank causing him to trumpet in pain.

“You want to get it back? Then make it feel your pain! Endeavor!” I commanded. Donphan swung his head to the side slapping the bear Pokémon with his trunk which effectively drained Ursaring off all the energy it recovered from its untimely nap.

“Get some distance Ursaring! Prepare for Giga Impact!” Goliath called. Ursaring turned and ran the opposite direction of its opponent.

“That sounds like fun! Use your Giga Impact too!” I yelled delightedly. Should the results of this next attack not go in my favor, I still have two Aces left to insure my victory.

When the two Pokémon were in position, Donphan trumpeted in triumph while Ursaring roared victoriously even though neither had won yet. At the same instant, both Pokémon ran at eachother at their full speeds, Ursaring having gotten down on all fours to attain its maximum velocity. Then came the moment everyone was holding their breath for; the collision. The impact from the two Pokémon gave off a bright light further delaying the result of the battle. My heart was pounding in anticipation. Sheesh. The way this was going, someone would think this was the finals. When the dust finally settled both Pokémon were still standing, but barely. The final blow would come when they had a chance to recover their strength.

“Come on. Come on.” I chanted tensely. I was so excited. One word and it would be all over. To my dismay, Ursaring seemed to come to first.

“I guess it’s my go. You were fun Little Man, but now it’s over. Sorry.” Goliath said unappoligetically. “Ursaring! Scratch!” As the bear raised its paw for the finishing blow, Donphan caught his second wind.

“Flail!” I cried at the top of my lungs. The Hibernator Pokémon raked its claws down, but not in time for Donphan to throw his whole body into the grizzly knocking it to the shattered floor. When it didn’t get up after a few seconds I began laughing completely relieved that I some how pulled this hard earned win.

“And there goes the battle! The winner is… Brian!” shouted the Ref to the cheering crowd.

“I don’t believe it! You actually beat me Little Man!” said Goliath in shock. “Guess I got a little full of myself at the end there, huh?”

“I had my moments too.” I admit calling back Donphan. We walked up and met at the center of what was left of the field. “I hope I kept this exciting for you.”

“You were excellent!” he complemented holding out a hand the size of my head. When I accepted the hand shake I felt like a little boy holding my dad’s hand. Once I exited the arena (which probably needed some repair anyway), I looked for a stadium map so that I could find the stadium’s healing station to prepare for my next match.

Chapter 13: Eve of Destruction

Pokémon fully healed and ready to go: Check.
Lunch break: Check.
Bathroom break: Check.
Ready to kick some ass: Check, check, check, and check!

“Ladies and gentlemen! The final battle of the evening has arrived! Whoever wins this will be participating in the quarter-finals tomorrow! Will it be Brian Nosurname or Eve Illuminati? We’ll find out tonight!” rambled the Ref. That guy is way too excited about this. Then again, who am I to argue? Quarter-finals means I only have to deal with three more opponents and I get to use all six of my Pokémon.

“Hey Hotshot!” Eve called over to me flirtatiously. I have to admit, she wasn’t half bad looking. She had long whitish blond hair, piercing green eyes, and a Lolita goth outfit consisting of the ridiculously frilly dress and the platform knee high boots.

“Ya?” I responded interestedly.

“I just wanted to warn you ahead of time not to cry when I defeat you wittle baby.” she taunted.

“Keke!” I verbally ticked in annoyance.

“She owned you.” Axel mocked.

“Sh- shut up!” I stammered. No one has EVER called me a little baby and not gotten their asses kicked. Come to think of it, this is the first time I actually have been called baby.

“Begin!” the Referee shouted. Must focus!

“I’ll show you a real baby! Come Espeon!” I called summoning the daughter of my Vaporeon. Fine smooth purple fur covered the Sun Pokémon’s body with a thick patch of whiskers under her ears. The red jewel on Espeon’s forehead between her large purple eyes and her long forked tail only amplified her psychic powers. Even though Espeon is no longer a baby, she was the first Pokémon I ever hatched making her my first baby.

“Show him playtime is over Luxray!” Eve shouted sending out a lion Pokémon covered in thick black fur with blue fur on its face, hind legs, and part of its torso. Its long tail ended in a yellow star that matched its menacing gold eyes which glared at Espeon threateningly. “Oh? Let me guess, your Espeon is female right?” inquired Eve.

“Yeah, so?” I asked. It took no more than a second to realize what was going on here. Eve’s Luxray must also be female with the Rivalry ability. “Crap.” I sighed unhappily.

“Tee hee! You figured it out huh? Guess you’re not as dumb as you look.” my opponent mocked.

“Geh! *Ahem* Right then.” I said regaining my composure. If I let her get in my head I’m done for. “Espeon! Swift!” I called. The Sun Pokémon created multiple white energy stars in the fork of her tail, followed by wiping her appendage side to side throwing the stars like homing shurikens that struck Luxray no matter where she tried to dodge to.

“Looks like you’re not as predictable as I thought you were.” Eve admit. “Charge your power Luxray!” she instructed. The Gleaming Eye Pokémon never took her sinister gaze off of Espeon as yellow and blue sparks began flying off her glowing body.

“Miss Eve, I am predictably unpredictable.” I bragged. “Allow me to demonstrate. Psybeam Espeon!” I shouted. Espeon lowered her head and fired off a rainbow colored beam at her adversary.

“Counter with Charge Beam!” commanded Eve. Luxray opened her mouth wide and began concentrating electrical power into a ball between her jaws. Then with a forceful roar, the Gleaming Eye Pokémon blasted the electricity into a long bright yellow stream that tore through Espeon’s Psybeam like a rock through wet paper and struck the Sun Pokémon head on.

“Shit! Espeon!” I yelled when she didn’t get up. I heard Eve laughing mockingly.

“Don’t tell me she’s already done after only one attack.” she ridiculed playfully. At that second Espeon rose back up after catching her second wind. I didn’t think she would have lost so easily.

“Underestimating an opponent is a careless mistake, one that could cost you a battle.” I warned. “Let me just show you how wrong you are! Use Quick Attack!” I called. A purple blur streaked down the field ramming head first into Luxray’s left flank.

“Awww how cute. The wittle baby thinks he knows phiwosophy.” Eve said as if she were talking to a small child. I think I felt an anger vein growing on my forehead as another ‘Ke!’ escaped my mouth. “Luxray! Show our toy how he’s the one underestimating us with your Bite!” she said more seriously. The lioness flipped around and chomped her maw around the Espeon’s shoulders causing the smaller Pokémon to howl in pain. “Continue with Thunder Fang!” Eve ordered sadistically. The Sun Pokémon cried out again at lighting was shot into her wound. As Luxray released her grip, her face contorted in pain. By the way the two Pokémon were shaking, I would say Thunder Fang paralyzed the Eeveeloution then Synchronize took care of Luxray.

“That’s what happens when you underestimate your enemies.” I said in an I-told-you-so way. “Even better, Espeon’s attacks are all mental based meaning she can attack so long as her body isn’t in too much pain. Espeon! Psychic!” I commanded. Espeon’s purple eyes took on a glow of the same color which then surrounded her entire body. Luxray was then surrounded in the violet aura and lifted into the air before being smashed back to the ground.

“Don’t let him do this to you Luxray! Use Spark!” shouted Eve. The Gleaming Eye Pokémon’s movements were stiff and sluggish as her body began crackling with electricity while she attempted to run at Espeon. It was a pretty pathetic sight; like watching a three legged Poochyena hobbling after a bone.

“You won’t get any closer that that. Use Shadow Ball Espeon!” I yelled. The stadium’s flood lights made the arena as bright as day. It also left numerous shadows in the corners of the stands and under the competitors themselves, all of which were now being lifted up into a swirling ball of darkness in front of the Sun Pokémon. Espeon pulled her head back dragging the Shadow Ball with her then threw her head forward launching the attack at her vulnerable foe. Luxray instinctively turned her head to the side to protect her face from the incoming attack which exploded into a cloud of darkness on impact.

“Well you’re not playing very nice.” Eve pouted sadly. Bipolar much?

“You haven’t been playing nice since before the battle even started!” I defended.

“But I always play nice with my toys.” she said innocently.

“See!?” I shouted pointing at her.

“Pointing is so rude. Didn’t your mother teach you anything?” mocked Eve. *Anger vein* “If Luxray is going to have trouble moving, then she’ll just have to use Charge to unleash stronger attacks!” she said confidently. Sparks began flying off the lioness as she gathered more power for her next attack.

“If she wants to buy time, then so will we! Future Sight!” I called. Espeon’s eyes took on their purple glow again as she called upon mystic forces to summon an attack from the future. Seriously though, how the hell does that work?

“You silly boy, you should know better. Take your advantages while you can! Use Discharge Luxray!” commanded Eve. Luxray roared threateningly as blue lightning began shooting off her body. Then it was almost as if the Pokémon exploded with bright blue bolts flying indiscriminately in every direction.

“Protect!” I shouted urgently. A violet bubble was emitted from the crimson gem on Espeon’s forehead until her whole body was enveloped. Just in time too as a random bolt of lightning struck at the Eeveelution’s location.

“I hate attacks like this!” cried Axel dodging a stray bolt. When the assault ended, Espeon dropped her barrier. She received a furious glare from Luxray for not taking any damage.

“Did you know Espeon evolve from Eevee by being completely happy with their trainer?” I asked rhetorically. “Well I decided to put that bond to good use. Espeon, show everyone how much you love me with Return!” I said very cutesy like.

“You scare me sometimes.” commented the golden monkey by my side. Meanwhile, the Sun Pokémon had lifted her limp body into the air with her psychic powers and thrown herself into Luxray.

“Hee hee.” I giggled triumphantly when Luxray didn’t get back up.

“Oh how mature.” Eve said sarcastically. “You’re such a child.”

“I was just trying to communicate with you in the only language you seem to understand.” I said playfully.

“Goo goo gaa gaa?” were the next sounds to come out of Eve’s mouth.

“What?” I questioned.

“Sorry, I was just trying to communicate with you in the only language you seem to understand.” teased Eve. Now who’s being mature? “Try not to wet yourself now! You’re next Steelix!” A giant thirty foot silver serpent with a spiked tail and a giant head carrying massive jaws materialized from its Ultra Ball. One, two fangs, it’s a boy. Every other turning metal segment on the Iron Snake’s body had two long rods poking out.

“Sorry to disappoint, but I took a bathroom break before the battle.” I replied. “Anyway, use Psybeam Espeon!” Espeon fired a rainbow colored ray from the jewel on her head at the giant snake. The psychic attack simply bounced off Steelix’s body like it was nothing. Curse steel for being the most durable type!

“*taunting laughter* Is that all your Pokémon can do? Poor baby.” Eve mocked. “Steelix! Crunch!” Steelix roared lunging face first to the ground and scooped up my immobile Espeon in its monstrous mouth. He then carried the Sun Pokémon at least 25ft into the air, tossed his head his throwing Espeon higher, caught her again in his mouth, then spit her to the ground. I quickly readied Espeon’s Pokeball and returned her as she fell.

“You God damn sociopath, what the hell was that!?” I asked furiously. “You could have killed her!”

“It’s not my fault Steelix likes to play rough.” Eve said flatly like she was blameless. “Besides, this is the big leagues. If it’s too much for you, go home and suck your thumb.” I began growling angrily deep within my throat.

“Let me handle this.” Axel offered stepping forward. I threw my arm out in font of him.

“Not yet. We don’t know what her third Pokémon is, and you don’t do so well against Rock and Ground-Type attacks.” I pulled a Pokeball from my side. “Let you’re student handle this one.” I held out the sphere releasing Riolu into the battle. The young Emanation Pokémon got a nervous look on his face after seeing Steelix, a Pokémon that’s head was bigger than he was. “You’ll be fine Rio!” I encouraged. Sensing my determination, he shook away his doubts and got ready to battle.

“Awww how cute! Another wittle baby for me to pway with!” cheered my opponent.

“And how old are you to think me so young?” I inquired.

“You never ask a woman her age or her weight!” she said offendedly. “But if you want to know my measurements…” she blushed putting her thumb to her lip.

“What? No! Have some decency woman!” I denied. “Riolu! Force Palm!” I commanded. Riolu concentrated his aura into his hand then thrust his blue-glowing palm into one of Steelix’s pointed segments sending a burst of energy through the Iron Snake’s body. Steelix roared in irritation.

“Fooey. Must be gay.” said Eve disappointedly. “Why else would you not want this?” she taunted feeling herself. *anger vein* I don’t think I’ve ever wanted to hit a female this badly in my life. “Bind up that Riolu!” Riolu was quickly surrounded by a thick metal tail and lifted into the air. Steelix held the Emanation Pokémon at eye level just for the sadistic pleasure of watching him squirm. Riolu let out a weak yelp as the snake tightened his grip on him.

“Use Rock Smash on him Rio!” I yelled. As Riolu struggled to get free a purple meteor fell from the sky smashing into Steelix’s head. That would be Espeon’s revenge. That was just the distraction Riolu needed to free his arms and slam his elbows into the serpent’s tail with all of his strength. Steelix subsequently released his captive, letting Riolu fall back to the ground where he landed on his feet.

“Steelix! Drag Riolu underground with Dig!” called Eve. The Iron Snake dove at Riolu head first with an open mouth. Riolu naturally new to avoid the attack and jumped back as Steelix penetrated the arena floor sending a mountain of dirt and debris up around him as the giant serpent went who knows how deep.

“He’ll be back up soon Riolu. Detect where he’ll be.” I advised. The young fighter nodded and closed his red eyes so he could concentrate on locking on to his foe’s aura. The second his eyes shot open he quickly turned to his left and jumped backward just as the monstrous Steelix burst back to the surface with his massive maw wide open. Riolu put his arms over his head to block the rain of earth that fell from the sky in the Iron Snake’s wake.

“Why do you bother delaying the inevitable?” questioned Eve sarcastically. “You will lose, plain and simple.”

“Because by delaying your victory, I can still pull off the win.” I retorted. “Observe! Low Kick Riolu!” I shouted. Riolu ran at Steelix, followed by throwing his foot out in front of himself so that he dropped to the ground sliding into the giant serpent foot first. Riolu kicked Steelix in the segment the Iron Snake Pokémon had been using as his center of balance causing the metal monster to collapse. A tremor was created as his body came crashing down.

“Hm. Predictable response. Trying to deny fate when you learn it isn’t in your favor. I thought you said you were predictably unpredictable, not predictably childish.” Eve said disappointedly. “Steelix! Use Dragonbreath!” she commanded. After lifting himself off the ground, the Steel-type blasted an intense blue flame from his huge mouth at Riolu. The Emanation Pokémon ran to avoid the attack, but the Steelix lived up to his cruel nature by actually turning his head and adjusting how much of his body was up so that he could follow Riolu around the field with his blast until finally striking the young Pokémon.

“Riolu!” I shouted. Riolu weakly got up, rubbed his paws together, and got combat ready again. “I’m glad you’re ok Rio.” I said relieved. “Now, use Reversal!” I commanded. The young Emanation Pokémon ran around Steelix twice to confuse him before stopping behind the serpent. Riolu grabbed the Iron Snake Pokémon’s tail and pulled it causing the Steel-type to fall on his face again.

“Crap. I wasn’t expecting this. Your Riolu is stronger than I gave him credit for.” Eve admit irritably.

“What did I tell you about underestimating your opponents? Even a youngling like Riolu has untapped potential.” I reminded cockily.

“Why do you have to be that way cutie? I just wanted to have some fun, but I’m done playing now. Show no mercy Steelix! Use Stone Edge!” called Eve getting a bit more serious. Steelix slammed his body to the ground causing four huge spears of rock to shoot up around Riolu. “Now Crunch!” she ordered before I could even think of a counter measure. The monstrous snake dived at the trapped Riolu with his jaws opened wide.

“Defense!” was all I could yell before Steelix shattered through his own rock formation picking up Riolu in his giant head and taking him 25ft up like he did with Espeon. I could see the Emanation Pokémon holding the metal serpent’s mouth open with his hands on the roof of the mouth between two white square teeth and his feet on the jaw in front of another square tooth. Unfortunately I could tell Rio was losing the struggle as his limbs began shaking and Steelix’s mouth got that much closer to closing shut.

“Push out!” I shouted. Riolu did as told managing to escape the serpent’s mouth as it clamped shut sending a metallic ring throughout the stadium. As Riolu fell, I could see him maneuvering in free fall so that he would land safely with minimal damage.

“Finish him with Iron Tail!” I heard Eve shout victoriously. She wouldn’t dare! Steelix got a sadistic grin as he lifted his pointed tail, now shimmering in the floodlight with a fresh coat of metal. Riolu yelped as the sharp tail was smashed into his already falling body making his plummet that much faster. I pulled out Riolu’s Pokeball and quickly summoned him back before impact. I stared at the ball for awhile to confirm that Riolu had been fainted by that attack.

“This is all a game for you isn’t it?” I asked venomously.

“Pretty much. You’re just my toy. But don’t worry, I’m not going to break you because then you won’t be as fun to play with.” Eve responded carelessly.

“Axel.” I said darkly. “Combo One.”

“As you wish. For Riolu!” cried Axel surrounding his right fist in fire. In a single leap he became a gold blur landing his fiery Mach Punch to Steelix’s jaw. The Infernape finished his combo with a flurry of close range Embers to the Steel-type’s face. The Iron Snake Pokémon let out a cry of defeat as he was finally brought down with Axel landing gracefully on his fallen foe’s head.

“Axel huh? He’s the only one of your Pokémon to have a name isn’t he? I’m guessing that he’s your first and undoubtedly strongest. You two probably share an unbreakable bond forged over hard training and good times.” analyzed Eve.

“Quit your rambling and send out your last Pokémon!” I ordered. The way she said all that was beginning to put me on edge.

“With pleasure! Allow me to introduce my Axel, although her color isn’t nearly as unique, Diva!” Eve threw down a Dusk Ball which released an ominous shadow upon opening. The shadow materialized itself into a small black doll with three horns, long black ‘hair’, evil glowing red eyes with vertical pupils, a yellow zipper for a mouth, and a star shaped yellow tail. The Banette gave an otherworldly cry upon emerging. It may just be me, but it feels like it just got a few degrees colder in here.

“Diva! Take care of wittle Axel with your Attract!” Eve called. Diva stared at Axel amorously, even going so far as to put her hands together under her chin and wink.

“*snicker* Good luck with that. I’ve got eyes only for other Infernape.” Axel said proudly. Eve looked completely confused.

“Your Infernape’s gay too?” she asked in disbelief.

“No, and neither am I. We both just happen to be asexual.” I corrected.

“Boooooooriiiiiiiiing!” Eve chastised shaking her hand at us.

“It keeps us from getting seduced by our female opponents so it works.” I replied. “But enough talk! Ghost-types have very dangerous move sets so I think a little precaution is in order. Don’t you agree Axel?” I didn’t need to say anymore. Axel kissed his palm, turned around, and began smacking his monkey ass. He got down on all fours and began shaking in the Banette’s general direction. Being a Pokémon that likes to hold grudges, Diva was powerless to resist.

“Diva, teach that vile little monkey a lesson! Spite! Wait, no. Curse! Dammit!” complained my opponent.

“Having trouble?” I taunted.

“Shut up! Diva! Shadow Sneak!” Eve commanded. Diva dived into the nearest shadow completely disappearing from view. The Marionette Pokémon reappeared jumping out of Axel’s shadow before shoving her arm through the monkey’s back and out his chest. Axel and I both screamed in horror before realizing that it was just an optical illusion as Diva was incorporeal.

“*hysterical laughter* Oh you are just too much! I wish you both could have seen the looks on your faces! Priceless!” cheered Eve still laughing.

“While you have Diva close like this, use Flamethrower!” I yelled.

“Sucker Punch!” Eve countered quickly. The Banette punched Axel in the face before he had a chance to breath.

“Bitch!” he shouted spitting fire from his mouth that turned into a raging fireball at the close range the two Pokémon were in. When the flames subsided, Diva had a swirling black mass of dark energy between her hands and looked like she was ready to use it.

“Alright, fine Diva. You can use Dark Pulse.” Eve said giving in to her Pokémon’s already irreversible demand. The zippered mouth curled up into an evil grin. Axel’s eyes widened as the Marionette Pokémon thrust her arms forward unleashing a burst of pure darkness. The Infernape was thrown down the field by the force of the blow until the shadows dissipated.

“Get up Axel! It’s Fire Spin time!” I called. The Flame Pokémon jumped up then fired a long spiraling tongue of flame that quickly surrounded Diva on impact. She shouldn’t be too much trouble in there.

“Ooooo! Pretty fire!” Eve admired. “Unfortunatewy your wittle baby mind couldn’t compwehend that a weak wittle attack wike that would be usewess against Diva.” Grrr I hate that baby talk. “Show them your Hidden Power Diva!” she said being serious again. Dirt and sand exploded from the field completely putting out the Fire Spin and leaving a circle of freshly upturned soil around the Banette. Then the sand began to rise and form roughly ten orbs of earth.

“Use your Hidden Power too Axel!” I commanded. Axel’s blue eyes took on a paler blue color as he held his arms out in front of himself with pale blue spheres in each hand. The monkey then turned both arms in a clockwise direction reproducing the orbs until there were twelve and his arms were opposite from where they started. As soon as the orbs became ice balls, Axel quickly uncrossed his arms sending his Ice-type HP at Diva’s Ground-type HP. The two attacks collided midair and cancelled eachother out in a beautiful shattering of the ice and earth spheres. However, Axel had two more than Diva which were heading right for the ghost.

“Diva! Throw those back with Psychic!” shouted Eve. The Banette surrounded herself in an ominous purple aura while holding out her hands stopping the ice balls dead in their tracks. With a flick of her wrists, Diva sent the remnants of Axel’s Hidden Power right back at him.

“Axel! Flare Blitz!” I yelled. The monkey’s flaming mane went wild as he got down on all fours and charged at Diva melting the two ice orbs in the process. The flaming torpedo that was Axel sped down the arena bashing into the Marionette Pokémon’s stomach head first.

“For a ghost, that kinda hurt.” complained the Infernape rubbing his head.

“Awww. Did monkey get a boo boo?” mocked Eve. “They say you get better when you sleep so why not take a nap? Diva! Show them why this next move is called Faint Attack!” commanded Eve laughing at her own joke. Diva disappeared in yet another shadow, then coming out in Axel’s blind spot, kicked the Flame Pokémon across the field.

“Damn you!” cried the monkey rising in his Blaze state. His body was surrounded in a golden aura coming to a tip around his flaming mane which was like a raging inferno. “I’ll break you!” he threatened.

“Axel!” I shouted authoritatively. “Calm down! Eve has been messing with us all battle, but don’t let her get to you. Anger can either give you focus or blind you. I’ve been working to keep mine in check while trying to ignore her mindless taunts. We’re a team so you need to control yours too. Use Calm Mind, that’s an order.” I said.

“Right. Thanks.” Axel thanked. He sat down cross legged, crossed his arms in front of himself, and closed his eyes. His twitching face slowly began to relax as his labored breathing became more controlled.

“Wow. You used so many big words. I’m very impressed.” Eve congratulated sarcastically. I didn’t even bother to dignify that with a response. I can play mind games too. “Nothing? You are unpredictable.” she said in amazement. “Diva! Try and get a response with Night Shade!” The Banette’s presence quickly got stronger as if it was taking up the entire arena. Two giant Banette hands emerged suddenly from the ground under Axel and wrapped around the Flame Pokémon’s neck.

“*cough* Can’t *ahk* brea-” Axel choked.

“Wench!” I yelled.

“What, so now we’re reduced to name calling? How very mature.” Eve said in a disappointed sarcastic tone.

“You damn succubus, you let him go right now or I’m coming over there!” I threatened.

Eve looked at me seriously “Let Axel go Diva.” she said broadly. I gave a slightly relieved smile. At least she wasn’t obnoxious about it. Axel was coughing and panting.

“Wh- what ever happened to calm?” he asked ironically.

“Time and place, time and place.” I answered. “Now, use Flame Wheel!” I commanded. The Infernape curled into a ball and began rolling at Diva at such speed that his mane looked like one continuous loop. The Marionette Pokémon quickly recovered from the attack. Not a good sign.

“Hit him with Shadow Ball now!” shouted Eve back in her peppy voice. Diva gathered the darkness and shadows around us creating a black sphere with the darkest shades of blue and purple swirling around its center. Diva then tossed the ball carelessly at Axel but with enough force that it sent the monkey to the ground. As Axel started getting back up, the Banette stood above him with a sinister look in her eyes.

“Now finish him with Shadow Claw Diva!” Eve said knowing the match was hers while still rubbing it in for me. Diva thrust her hand all the way through Axel’s skull. The Marionette Pokémon seemed to be getting a sadistic pleasure by the look of pure terror on Axel’s face. My whole body was shaking at the sight. All at once everything that had happened this match became clear to me. I never stood a chance from the beginning.

“Be nice Diva.” Eve scolded. Diva frowned giving a disappointed sigh as she pulled her hand from Axel’s head with out using her attack. If she had used her attack I wouldn’t have been able to say what I was about to say.

“Axel. Come here.” I said somberly.

“Have you finally given up?” questioned Eve.

“Yes.” I admit. “I realized why you played with me all this time. It wasn’t to throw me off my game. You wanted to push me to my limits.”

“That’s right. This whole time when I said I was just playing and that this was a game, I really meant it. All my Pokémon were holding back.” Eve said.

“Then Espeon, Riolu, and Axel could have…” I began to ask.

“That’s right. I could have ended their lives at any moment. Of course tournament regulations and all forbid that. I myself would rather not kill if it isn’t necessary though.”

“Will any amount of training be enough to beat you next time?” I asked.

“I cannot be defeated by anyone who doesn’t have the intent to kill. You’re a good person Brian and a marvelous trainer, you just don’t have that capacity.” she said. “I’m sorry it was me you had to fight.”

“So does that mean…” started Axel.

“Yes. We lost.”
*********************

Does anyone else see the irony that the first chapter to have Eve in it was the thirteenth?

This is awesome that Rise to Team Neos is back man can't wait for the new chapters to come.  And a question for you Monkey are you gonna make up any "fake" Pokemon for the story

I highly doubt that he will Charmander.

Ah so much fun going back and reading all the chapters again. So far out of the one's you've posted, my favourites would have to be the battle against Eve, Cal and the one with the drugos. That last one cracks me up. Well they all do, but that one in particular, seeing as it's a comic relief chapter.

Five years?! Let's hope you stick to it, because this has got the be the darn best fanfic I've ever read. Now if it was me, there would be no way I could stick to that. The good news is though, there's a lot more ass kicking from Brian and Axel to come!

Finally! Eve Illuminati has arrived! Glad to see you're reposting the Chapters. Keep up the good work and I expect to see a new chapter once you reposted all the previous ones. *Runs off to wait until more chapters are reposted.*

Lol! Blazikid has a crush on Eve!   J/k

And no Charmander, no fakemons here. A gold Infernape and Pokémen are about as far as I'm taking the willing suspension of belief. All my other shenanigans get filed neatly under refuge in audacity.


Chapter 14: Truth Revealed

“Ow! That stings!” whined Axel as I sprayed his wounds with a Super Potion.

“Stop your whining! Be glad you’re still alive.” I reminded. We were currently in the trainer’s lounge in the stadium resting up from our last match. I had slipped Espeon and Riolu a Revive each, but they both will still need medical attention.

“Are you Brian Nosurname?” asked a man walking in the room. He had styled back brown hair with four strands hanging over his eyes which were hidden behind red tinted sunglasses. He had an uninterested look on his face like he had something better to do. The noticeable scar on his left cheek was a direct contrast from his outfit consisting of a black suit and tie with a red dress shirt underneath the jacket.

“I am.” I answered warily. The man gave a creepy smile.

“I am Arthias. My boss, Mr. Strife Maxwell, would like to see you.” he answered.

“What for?” I questioned.

“I’m not sure, but I believe he’s taken an interest in you. Now come with me.” Arthias said beckoning me forward.

“Sorry, but not tonight. My Pokémon and I are tired, all we want is to go to bed.” I responded. I didn’t know who this Strife guy was, nor did I feel like dealing with him at the moment.

“Mr. Maxwell doesn’t like being made to wait. If you don’t like what he has to say you may leave.” Arthias persisted.

“Fine! I’ll go with you only to tell this boss of yours to shove what ever he has to say up his no doubt rich ass. I am not some item to be chosen and bought.” I spat. “Come along Axel.”

“And I was looking forward to going to bed too.” the Infernape complained.

“Follow me then.” Arthias said forcefully.

Arthias led us out of the trainer’s lounge to the nearest elevator. Once we got inside he pressed four. The entire walk and elevator ride were silent. Not that I was complaining, anything Arthias said would have probably pissed my off. I just wanted to meet Strife Maxwell to find out what he wanted with me.

“I’m getting a bad feeling about this.” Axel mentioned breaking the silence as well as practically reading my mind. Something about this situation had put me on edge.

When the elevator opened, we walked out on a very fancy level, obviously the suites. We turned a corner where the wall was replaced by a railing. Below us was the club level where the middle class was still clearing out after today’s matches. When we arrived at Room number 465, Arthias knocked on the door. I heard someone on the other side call out “Enter.”

“I’ve brought him Sir.” Arthias said bowing after walking inside. Directly across from the door was a desk in front of a tall leather chair with its occupant facing away from us looking out at the field through wall sized windows.

“Welcome Brian.” a voice in the chair addressed me. “I am glad you could make it. I am Strife Maxwell.” As that last sentence was spoken the chair turned around to face me and Axel. I was only slightly stunned. It was the political… er politician from the other day. He even has the same white pimp suit and blue dress shirt as before. Then again, he could be like me and own multiples of the same outfit.

“I remember you.” I recalled.

“Well that is nice to hear. I would hate to have made so little of an impression on you that you would not remember me only a few days later.” Strife said coolly.

“So what did you want with me Strife?” I asked hastily.

“That’s Mr. Maxwell to you!” interrupted Arthias. Strife waved his hand up and down at Arthias to ease him.

“That’s enough Arthias. Our guest has no etiquette, how is he supposed to know common courtesy or formalities.” said Strife softly. The guy defends me by owning me? What the hell? Arthias grumbled and leaned against the wall by the door crossing his arms.

“I apologize on behalf of Arthias. Your question was perfectly justified, and to be honest, hearing my name out of your mouth in such a manner was not unusual to me.” He reached under the desk, pulled out a manila folder, and threw it on the table. “This should answer all of your questions Brian. Open it.”

I actually hesitated for moment before reaching for the folder. Axel stood over my shoulder as I opened the file. My hands began trembling when I saw what was inside. It was a picture of me! At least it looked like me. The man in the picture looked older with shades of grey in his black hair and a few other differing characteristics.

“Holy shit!” cried Axel in disbelief.

“Wh- who… who is this man?” I stammered in a shaken voice with the folder vibrating in my hand with how much I was quaking. I felt very pale.

“That is Nathan Xelbu. By the difference in your ages and the uncanny resemblance between the two of you, I can only surmise that Xelbu is your father.” Strife said calmly. I on the other hand nearly fainted from those words. Luckily Axel was still behind me to catch me.

“Arthias, could you fetch our guest a chair and some water? He looks like he is about to pass out.” I felt a chair pushed into me as Axel helped lower me down. Then Arthias gave me a glass of water which I took a few sips from.

“This can’t be right.” I said. “I know my father. I’ve known him and my mom for almost twenty years.” I told them.

“Is it possible that your parents were married after you were born?” asked Strife unconvinced.

“I… I’ve seen the wedding certificate. They were married at least a year before I was born.” I protested.

“Then could your mother have committed adultery?” Strife continued. I jumped out of the chair and grabbed Strife by his tie and pulled him close to my face. There was a thump behind me.

“You don’t know them! Neither one would cheat on the other. Don’t ever make a comment like that again!” I said angrily. “I would sooner believe I was adopted.”

“You have my sincerest apologies Brian. I did not mean to insult you or your family.” Strife said apologetically. I pushed him back into his chair as I let go of his tie. Strife readjusted his tie making it strait and neat again. I turned around to pick up my chair which had fallen only to see Axel on top of Arthias.

“He was about to attack you.” said the monkey defensively. I put my hand on his shoulder silently telling him to get up as I sat back in my chair. Axel rose, followed by Arthias who gave us both an unforgiving glare as he went back to the door.

“This is why you recognized me isn’t it?” I realized as I started to regain myself.

“Indeed. Xelbu was twenty years my senior, but he and I knew eachother well. We both had ties to an organization known as the Non Existent Ones. Xelbu was the organization’s chief scientist while I was the son of its leader, Atimus Maxwell. When I turned eighteen I was made head captain and heir to the Non Existent Ones, but that is beside the point. The point is Xelbu was a friend and mentor to me as I grew up.” explained Strife.

“Based on what you said earlier, you probably don’t know who my biological mother is.” I suspected. Strife’s face turned grim as he lowered his head closing his eyes.

“Unfortunately I do not. Although Xelbu had numerous honorable traits, he was still human and had his share of disreputable ones as well. One of which was… well… he liked to bring women to his bed and… fornicate.” Strife said distastefully.

“So he was a sex fiend.” I said bluntly. Strife sighed and shook his head.

“To put it so callously, yes, Xelbu was a… sex fiend.” My words he said with even more dislike as if he were choking on them.

“You keep saying his name in the past tense. You mean he’s…” I was almost afraid to ask the question.

“Yes. I regret to say, Nathan Xelbu is deceased.” Strife lamented. “I already mentioned that Xelbu was a brilliant scientist. About ten years ago, he was involved in an experiment on Cinnabar Island with a freelance research team titled ‘Project Myu2’. Unfortunately, the experiment went horribly wrong. The mansion the research was conducted in was utterly destroyed along with the lives of everyone inside at the time. Nathan Xelbu died at the age of 41. Fate had been especially cruel that terrible day as my father, Artimus Maxwell, had gone to the mansion to get a progress report on the experiment. He too died. That fateful day I had to assume the role as leader of the Non Existent Ones as its heir at the age of 21.”

“You brought me here to say all of that? I think I would have been happier not knowing the truth.” I confessed. My mind was in complete disarray. If dealing with Eve earlier hadn’t been bad enough, now I have all this on my mind too! I don’t think I can handle anymore.

“Sometimes ignorance truly is bliss.” Strife empathized. “I am sorry I called you here for this. I believed you deserved to know the truth, but I see now I was mistaken.”

“Are you ok?” asked Axel worriedly.

“I’m fine.” I said despite everything that happened. “I have one more question before I go. You’ve mentioned this a few times, so who are the Non Existent Ones?” I inquired. It was only for a brief second, but I could have sworn I saw Strife flash an evil grin as if he had hoped I would ask. Then again it has been a long night. Must have just been my imagination.

“If you must know, make an acronym of the first letter in each word in Non Existent One.” told Strife.

“Sir, no!” shouted Arthias desperately extending his hand.

“N-E-O.” I spelled out. “Neo.” Then I felt like a ton of bricks had been smashed into my face. “Neos. Team Neos.” I said in an almost whispered voice.

“Allow me to formally introduce myself. I am Strife Maxwell, Leader of Team Neos.” Strife said calmly as he practically stared through me.

Time felt like it had completely stopped. I think my heart missed a beat or two when he said those words. A cold sweat ran down my forehead. Why would he reveal himself like that? Especially to someone like me and- Oh no! Arthias! He must be a member, a high ranking one no doubt. And he’s been standing at the door this whole time. I have no way out! I am completely surrounded by the enemy. Arthias looked about as nervous as I did. He must not have known his boss would out himself either. He reached into the side of his suit jacket and never took his eyes off of me.

“Why? Why would you tell me all that?” I asked nervously. “You could have just lied!” I shouted jumping out of my chair and slamming my hands on Strife’s desk. At that very second Arthias pulled an Ultra Ball from his jacket and pointed it at me. I was completely frozen solid. I didn’t know what was in that sphere, but something told me I didn’t want to find out. Not with my Pokémon still so exhausted. Axel was staring daggers at the two men. He was just as anxious as I was and knew he was just as vulnerable.

“Put you ball away my Captain.” said Strife standing up. “You do not want to frighten our guest now or give him the wrong impression of us.”

“Frightened?” I said in a low voice. “I’m fucking terrified right now! What the hell is with you!?” I yelled. This whole situation had me completely freaked out.

“Brian, to answer your first questioned ‘Why did I not lie?’ the answer is quite simple. I wanted you to know. You are correct; I could have completely left out all traces of the Non Existent Ones when I spoke of Xelbu. Better yet, I could have never invited you in the first place. But I did call upon you, and I told the truth. The other day when we met, you told me you were participating in the White City Tournament. I made sure to watch your matches to see how you performed in battle. I was most impressed, particularly your most recent one with Eve Illuminati. Though you lost, you demonstrated finesse and good judgment. You recognized that you would lose, so you did the honorable thing by cutting your losses before it was too late. You are just the kind of trainer Team Neos needs.” Strife said as he walked around the room.

“No way!” I shouted when I realized what he had just asked. “I will never join a criminal organization like Team Neos!” With that Strife stopped walking, never taking his eyes off of me for a second.

“Criminals? What an ugly word.” he said hurtfully. “The Neos are visionary activists. The world is in a deplorable state of chaos and discord. Teams Rocket, Galactic, Aqua, and Magma have been terrorizing the world for years. Someone needed to step up to the task. I have a vision of a utopia where people and Pokémon live in peace. No more will there be war or dissension. Team Neos acts on this goal by any means necessary. Now I will admit, I have heard stories of members who take things too far, but can you really chastise an entire organization based on the sins of a few? Is the police force evil because of the actions of a few bad cops? Can the student body of a school be called fractious because one delinquent always makes trouble for others? They say that it takes 100 good deeds to make up for one bad. You see Brian; the media takes that one instance of misjudgment, blows it out of proportion, and slanders us relentlessly for it. Never do they so much as mention all the positive things Neos does for the world.” Strife continued, making hand gestures when appropriate and never losing his cool for a second.

“If what you say is true, then you owe me 200 good deeds for when I saw your people kill a man, then attempt to kill me.” I said vehemently.

“Then join us Brian. You can be the one who makes up those 200 actions.” Strife encouraged holding out his hand bidding me to accept.

“The answer is no!” I rejected fiercely. I took a deep breath. “This may just be me being naïve, but I won’t tell anyone who you really are. They probably wouldn’t believe me anyway, but it may be enough to start an investigation. But I won’t say anything.” I said more calmly.

“Are you sure?” Axel asked nervously.

“Yeah, let’s go.” I said turning to the door.

“I would appreciate that Brian. Team Neos is still in its infancy. The world is not ready to know my identity yet. When order is restored to this corrupt society I will come forward, but not yet.” said Strife thankfully. He reached into his jacket and pulled out a Pokeball. “Here. A gift for all of your troubles so that there is no ill will between us.” he said throwing the ball to me. “It is a Beldum, a very rare breed that evolves into one of the most powerful Pokémon known to man. Train it well. Good night Brian and Axel.”

I slowly staggered with Beldum’s Pokeball in hand and Axel at my side holding me steady. As I neared the door, Arthias slammed his arm against it blocking my exit.

“Sir, with all due respect, what are you thinking letting him go like this?” he asked angrily. For the first time I saw a change in Strife’s demeanor. He looked aggressive.

“Be quiet!” he roared angrily. After everything that happened tonight, this was by far the most terrifying moment. “I need not explain myself to the likes of you my Captain! Now kindly remove your hand from the door so that Brian and Axel may leave. They have had a long night.” His tone subsided to its usual calm as he spoke. Arthias reluctantly did as instructed and even opened the door for me.

“My apologies, Sir.” Arthias said as I walked out. “I just wanted to know the purpose of this meeting.” Athias got no answer, at least none while I was still within hearing range. The door closed behind me as I walked back to the elevator. The only life remaining in the stadium were employees cleaning up after today’s events.

I was both physically and mentally drained. So much had happened in such a short time. Eve, Strife, Neos, Beldum… It’s just too much! Axel must have sensed my torment as he didn’t say a word the whole time. Once we were outside I couldn’t contain myself any longer. I let out a sad scream of defeat.
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I went to look at the old topic in the archives earlier. This chapter was near the bottom of page four. It's going to take forever to get back to page ten! @_@