Re:Rise of Team Neos

Compared to previous chapters I've written, this one is rather short. In the grand scheme of things it is necessary though. Besides, it's quality not quantity, so let me know what ye all think about the quality of this one.

Chapter 35: Matters Uneasily Resolved

“Now Axel! Finish it with Flare Blitz!” I commanded. My monkey partner surrounded his body in fire and charged recklessly at a Pokémon with a thin green stalk for a body and a large yellow sunflower for a head. The Sunflora screamed in pain before falling to the floor unconscious.

“Oh no! Sunflora lost!” my opponent cried returning the Sun Pokémon to its Pokéball. “Good match!” she continued before walking out of the room.

“Excellent job! That’s twenty victories! Would you like to continue battling, rest, or retire?” asked the female referee, identifiable by her green uniform. I don’t know why they have to wear those silly hats though.

“What do you think Axel?” I asked turning to him. The Flame Pokémon put his hand to his chin to think.

“A quick rest would be nice. I don’t need one, but Snorlax took a beating from that last Trainer’s Hariyama.” he replied.

“Fair enough. We’ll rest for a bit.” I told the ref.

“Very well sir. Step out into the lobby please.” she instructed. Axel and I followed her out of the arena into a large open lobby with grey flooring. In the center of the floor was a pentagon with grey circles on four of the five points. The circle on the upper point was red indication that this facility was Battle Tower. Around the Battle Frontier logo were four statues that looked like deformed stars with Pokéballs on one of the points. I guess they’re supposed to represent people holding the Pokéballs or something.

After getting my Pokémon healed, I sat with Axel on one of the many benches drinking from our water bottles and watching the other trainers prepare themselves, conversate, or just wander around aimlessly.

After leaving Raiden and the others, I flew on Aerodactyl to Vermillion City and took the SS Aqua to Olivine City, and from there walked to the Johto Battle Frontier. I had heard good things about it, but never officially visited before. Since I wanted a straight fight, I chose Battle Tower as it was the only one of the five facilities not to have any silly gimmicks.

It was nice being able to enjoy a battle for a change instead of worrying about casualties. I had my Pokémon battle each other and wild Pokémon before coming here just to make sure we were still capable of friendly competition. It was nice to know that we were. It was also nice to know that we haven’t lost our edge. The opponents in Battle Tower weren’t exactly pushovers. In battles 1-7 I used Axel, Piloswine, and Riolu; battles 8-14 Axel, Beldum, and Aerodactyl; and battles 15-21 Axel, Snorlax, and Piloswine. Only one battle left in this round.

“We needed this.” I said with a relaxed sigh.

“Yeah we did. All this fighting makes for good training too.” agreed the Infernape. I nodded with a smile, but my smile faded when I saw a familiar female with white blonde hair wandering the lobby as if searching for something. Or rather someone.

“What the hell is she doing here?” Axel wondered bitterly.

“Isn’t it obvious? She’s searching for us.” I said disdainfully. My inner dragon so badly wanted to run over there and claw Eve’s throat out and spill her internal organs, but my human rational told me that murder in a place like this was an extremely bad idea. Surrounded by so many powerful trainers meant there was no escape. That, and I would have to flee from Team Neos permanently for killing one of my own. Instead, I decided it would be easier to try to blend in with the crowd until it was time for my next match. Unfortunately, we were spotted.

“There you are!” Eve called walking over to us. Axel and I crossed our arms and stared at her hatefully. I even gave her an inhuman snarl so Eve would get the idea that she was the last human I wanted to deal with right now. The blonde paused before throwing her hands up in submission.

“Look, I know you probably hate me-”

“No, I do hate you.” I interrupted.

“Right. But anyway, I need you to come back with me.” she requested.

“Why should I?” I questioned spitefully.

“Raiden ordered it. Do you know what happens to traitors and deserters? They get hunted down and eliminated.” said Eve answering her own question.

“So you want to finish what you started in the Safari Zone.” I said venomously. Granted, I may have been harsher than necessary considering her tone was nothing but submissive, but I wanted Eve to feel my pain.

“No, see Raiden didn’t report you to the superiors. The five of us are the only ones who know you left. He ordered us to bring you back so he wouldn’t have to report you. I’m just the one who found you first.” she explained.

“Lucky me.” I said sarcastically.

“I’m glad that I found you fist because…” Eve looked like she was having a hard time coming up with the words to say next. “Because I wanted t apologize.” she said lowering her head.

“For nearly killing me? Yeah… Not forgiven.” I blew off dismissively.

“I’m not asking for forgiveness! I just wanted you to know that I’m deeply sorry for shooting you with Ice Beam. I had no idea it would have that effect on you!” she informed.

“You stupid bitch! I’m a Dragon-human hybrid. What the hell did you think was going to happen?” I yelled in a hushed voice. I didn’t want onlookers hearing our conversation after all.

“I don’t know! I thought you’d react like a Dragonair. It would hurt enough to get your attention, but you’d still walk away from it. You have proven to be very tough in the past.” admit Eve unsurely.

“Dragon-human hybrid.” I repeated. “I have the strength, speed, and endurance of a Dragon-type Pokémon, but I still possess the frailness of a human along with the weaknesses of my type. Ice-type attacks don’t exactly tickle. They are extremely unpleasant to me and may even be fatal! Have you ever felt your blood crystallize? Because I almost did!” I spat. I watched Eve blink hard while making various facial expressions as if she was trying to hold back tears. Don’t tell me the sociopath actually has a heart and was about to cry. I may actually laugh at the irony of that.

“I know that! I feel awful about it! I like tormenting people, I like playing with people as if they’re my toys, but I can’t kill someone unless they deserve it or it’s a necessary evil. I may be cruel and manipulative at times, but I do have standards.” Eve said defensively. To bad for her I wasn’t buying it.

“I will not forgive you and I will not acknowledge your apology. If you are truly sorry, you will find a way to make this up to me some how.” I told her flatly.

“I won’t give you sexual favors.” she rejected. I couldn’t believe her!

“Depraved woman! Who the hell do you think I am? Zack Kaguya? I wasn’t going to ask for anything like that!” I yelled furiously, this time not caring about my tone or who heard me.

“Settle down. It was a joke. I thought some light humor would help ease the situation a bit.” said Eve waving her hands up and down telling me to keep my voice down.

“Well I’m not laughing.” I said unamusedly. Eve sighed.

“I know. That was mostly for me. I hate feeling this vulnerable in front of people.” she said hugging herself. “But it’s fine. I’m sure I can think of something to make things right with you.” agreed Eve.

“How dare you! You aren’t supposed to make yourself feel better when begging someone to do something for you. You are supposed to be absolutely submissive!” I shot back irately. Eve lowered her head shamefully and this time I’m sure I saw tears starting to flow. So she was telling the truth after all. Either that or she’s a better actress than I ever gave her credit for. I think I’ll test her sincerity.

“You had just better hope that our enemies don’t realize what happened back there. If they were smart enough to form an alliance, then there’s a chance they will be smart enough to notice the correlation that me plus Ice-type attacks equals me out of commission. If that happens, we’re all screwed. And if by some miracle I live through their assault, I will kill you regardless of the consequences.” I told her flatly.

“Raiden already told me about that. That is why I’m so sorry about it. Not only did I wrong you once, but I may have left you open to further, undeserved torture. The rest of us would be left vulnerable because we’d have to help you or suffer the loss of one of our own.” she responded. Then Eve looked to the floor in shame. “I- I hate feeling vulnerable. If people know your weaknesses they’ll take advantage of you. In the end you’ll just be hurt and feeling like a loser and I also hate losing. I hate losing games, I hate losing battles, and I hate losing people. It’s such an awful feeling.”

“For once we agree. But you still owe me, remember that.” I said dryly. Eve may have put it in a self-centered perspective, but the idea is the same. People fight to protect what they care about because the pain of loss is so great it can be unbearable. I fight Team Rocket not just to avenge Madison’s murder, but so that other innocent people don’t suffer as well.

“Sir, are you ready for your next match?” asked the ref coming for me. I turned to Eve.

“May I? You did say you had to take me back.” I asked her.

“True, but I haven’t told anyone that I actually found you yet.” replied Eve with half a smile.

“Good. But this doesn’t make us even yet!” I reminded.

“I can accept that.” she granted. I smirked as I followed the referee to the arena for my twenty-first match. I took a deep breath to clear my mind of my rage. I wanted this final battle to be fun.
------------

“So… s-strong…” panted Axel wearily as I walked him out of the arena. I had no idea this battle was going to be against Tower Tycoon Palmer. We were very unprepared for such a formidable opponent. Rhyperior, Milotic, and Dragonite all had an advantage over Axel, but luckily I had Piloswine to fight Dragonite, and Snorlax to handle Milotic leaving Axel to do his best against Rhyperior. In the end, I barely came out on top. Both Snorlax and Piloswine were knocked out and Axel was very low on health, but we pulled through in the end.

“Do did you win?” inquired Eve, who had been waiting for us outside. I still despised her, but it would be rude not to answer.

“We did. After Axel and my other Pokémon get healed, I’m to meet Palmer outside so we can take a commemorative photo outside the Tower.” I told her. As soon as Axel could stand on his own, I met the Tower Tycoon outside Battle Tower.

“There’s Mr. Spectacular!” called a man in his thirties with spiky blonde hair cheerfully motioning us over. That was Palmer, the Frontier Brain. He wore long khaki pants, black shoes, and a white shirt underneath a green trench coat. In order to be allowed to participate in the Battle Frontier, I needed to first purchase a Vs Recorder to keep track of my matches. I pulled my Vs Recorder from my pocket and handed it to one of the green uniformed employees so that he could get a picture on it of me, Axel, and Palmer.

The Tower Tycoon threw his arms over my and Axel’s shoulders with a wide grin. The monkey and I leaned close to Palmer giving a thumbs-up and victorious smirks to the photographer.

“Say Frontier Brain!” shouted the photographer before snapping the picture with my Vs Recorder. “There you go! Your Tower Print has been saved.” he said handing it back to me.

“Thanks. And thank you Palmer for that excellent battle.” I said appreciatively.

“Brian, I know you will become even more skilled. Keep battling Trainers from around the world and keep growing greater in stature!” encouraged Palmer. I smiled and nodded.

Before leaving the Battle Frontier, I was given a Bronze Trophy for winning twenty consecutive battles in Battle Tower and each of my Pokémon was awarded a Ribbon for beating Palmer. I put the ribbons in the trophy and put that in an empty Item Ball I had in my backpack.

“Alright Eve, report in that you found me.” I told her. I was still feeling good about my recent victory but I was starting to feel down now that I had to return to work.

“Already done. I called in while you were getting your Commemorative Print. Raiden says to meet him in Saffron City.” she debriefed. “Also, I know I’m in no place to request anything from you, but could you please keep what happened here between us? I don’t want the others to know I actually have a nice side.” Eve beseeched.

“Heh. As far as I’m concerned, you were just playing nice so that I wouldn’t destroy you like I do to so many others that get on my bad side.” I said. I didn’t say this, but why would I put someone I loathe in a positive light anyway?

“Thanks.” she said somewhat relieved. “And I promise, I will find a way to make things right. We have to work together so I would rather there not be bad blood between us.”

Getting to Saffron City was no easy task. Or I should say it was a very unpleasant one. Without a Flying-type Pokémon of her own, Eve and I had to sit uncomfortably close together on Aerodactyl’s back on our way to Goldenrod City. We had to spend more time together in taking the Magnet Train to Saffron. At least there, we could keep our distance. The only good thing that came out of this situation was that my tolerance of her grew; something I would need for us to effectively work together again on future missions.

“This is the place.” Eve said looking at a piece of paper that she had written the address on and comparing it to the apartment building we were standing in front of. It was a bit shoddy. It was a brick building with peeling yellow paint on it.

“Well let’s go. And don’t worry Monkey, I’ll stay with you while Raiden gives you your lecture.” promised Axel. How encouraging. We walked inside to the apartment number written on the slip.

“We’re back!” called Eve knocking on the old wooden door. The one to answer the door was, luckily, Zack who had a big smile on his face.

“Hey buddy! Hey beautiful!” he greeted happily leading us in. The apartment was small and not exactly the cleanest thing around. Of all the places we’ve stayed in the past this was definitely the dirtiest and in the sketchiest possible neighborhood. This almost felt like the kind of place Team Rocket would hang out which was all the more disgusting. Why would Raiden take us to the ghetto of Saffron City unless we had a mission? Of course maybe we did.

“Brian, tell me you hit that during your alone time with her.” asked Zack.

“Define hit. If you mean sex her, then no, certainly not. If you mean smack her, I wanted to but I restrained myself.” I answered.

“Unlike you Kaguya, Brian’s a perfect gentleman to a lady. Granted, he probanly wouldn’t know what to do with a woman if she threw herself at him.” teased Eve.

“Oh be quiet.” I said sardonically. I would have usually retorted with a snarky quip, but I was still too pissed at her to bother with one.

“I’m glad your back.” said Chane coming to join us.

“I guess it’s good to be back.” I said indifferently. “I just wish you or Zack had been the ones to find me. I really didn’t feel like dealing with Eve.” I admit. Chane looked happy to hear that, but at the same time dispirited that I was still a bit grumpy. Then Raiden entered the room giving me the most disappointed and unpleased look he could make.

“Hey Master Raiden. How goes it?” I inquired trying to appear calm.

“A word Brian.” he demanded motioning me closer. I took a deep breath preparing for the tongue lashing of my life as I walked towards Raiden.

All of a sudden Raiden reached out, grabbed me by the shirt collar and threw me against the wall. Before I could react to the shock of getting thrown or the pain now in my back and head from colliding with the wall, Raiden held out an Item Ball in his right hand which burst open to reveal a long black spear with a silver fang-shaped blade, yellow lightning bolt patterns on the shaft, a spiked blue ball at the base of the shaft, and a purple ribbon flowing like cloud connected to the weapon by a blue crest shaped like an ‘X’. I leaned my head as far back against the wall as I could as the blade of the spear was placed against my neck. I was in too much shock to even swallow out of fear that the blade would slit my throat.

“Raiden! Stop!” screamed Chane.

“Hold it!” Axel yelled running to attack Raiden. In a swift motion with his left hand, Raiden’s Electabuzz appeared in the room to block off Axel. I motioned my hand telling the Infernape to stand down. I was sure Raiden wasn’t going to kill me. If that had been his intention, I’d already be dead. The Flame Pokémon growled as he unwilling took the order. I shifted my eyes back at Raiden who in turn looked back at me once he was sure my Pokémon was no longer an issue.

“Brian, need I remind you that Team Neos does not accept resignations? Traitors and deserters will receive the maximum punishment.” my superior refreshed. “I understood that you never intended to leave us, that is why I did not report you. However, insubordinate behavior is still insubordinate behavior and will not be tolerated. Your disregard for orders in the past may have led to success, but this time you nearly cost us! Believe me, there will be repercussions for this! As of right now you are on probation so I suggest you behave yourself. Any further defiance from you will result in punishment ranging from solitary confinement for an allotted time period to elimination. I would rather it not come to that, but if you try to run away again, I will execute you with this spear myself. Do I make myself clear?” Raiden paused giving me the opportunity to speak, but didn’t relax the spear at all.

“Yes…” I choked not daring to say anymore out of fear for my life. This was the angriest I had ever seen Raiden and I didn’t want to push my luck.

“Good. Now stop being so egotistical and prideful and look at the big picture for once. Retreating is the same as victory if it means living to fight another day. Rushing into battle aimlessly puts the rest of us at a disadvantage because we either have to risk our lives to save you or sacrifice one fifth of our fighting strength. Think about what is best for everyone, not just yourself and learn to control your impulses better. That is an order; one I suggest you take to heart and follow obediently. Need I remind you that a Pokémon is only as strong as its trainer?”

“No…” I responded deciding that it’s safest to keep my responses at one syllable.

“Then don’t be weak.” retorted the Third Seat finally lowering his spear. I took a deep breath and rubbed my neck now that there wasn’t a sharp object pinning me to the wall. Axel rushed over to my side now that I was no longer in danger. Everyone else in the room looked relieved that no drastic measures had been taken.

“Are you ok?” inquired Axel worriedly.

“You ask that too much. But yeah, I’m fine.” I replied. “Master Raiden Arka.” I conceded as I kneeled to my superior placing my hand over my heart. “I swear eternal loyalty to you. I will follow all of your orders and follow you down which ever road of life you choose unless they go completely against my code of honor. If I fail to carry out my oath, then strike me down with that spear.”

“You are so strange sometimes.” said Raiden blankly. “Very well. I will accept your offer, odd as it may be. You call me Master anyway, though I do not know why.”

“Thank you Master.” I thanked gratefully. “So what’s the deal with Team Rocket? Do we have any new information about what happened in the Safari Zone?” I asked.

“It is unfortunate to say that incidents like that are happening all over the world. It would seem that in the wake of Team Magama’s destruction, the three remaining Teams have banded together. What this means for Team Neos is that we have to rethink our methods. Since the formation of this Team Triad, some Neos squads have failed their missions but had gotten away like we did. Others have suffered casualties. There are also sparse reports of the total annihilation of squads. The success rate for Team Neos has dropped 57% in the past week.” explained Raiden grimly.

“It has gotten so bad that the three Captains are now stepping in. They have ordered a halt to all intervention missions until a thorough investigation can take place. Once that is done, they will debrief us on what we need to do. For now, we lay low.” he continued.

“Bastards! We should be out there killing them!” I yelled. Raiden gave me an unamused look for my outburst. “But we’ll stay put and follow orders.” I conceded dejectedly. Raiden smirked, but I could tell it wasn’t from my compliance.

“Who said anything about staying here? The five of us are going to headquarters. I do not believe any of you have ever been there before.” he told us.

“You mean we actually have one?” Zack said sarcastically. “Where at?”

“Right below us. Or to be more precise, below the city. You see, the reason the Underground Paths were closed was not because of vandalism. Team Neos acquired the four entrances and expanded the paths into a functional base. Only someone with a Team Neos ID may enter.” explained Raiden.

“We are so awesome!” I cheered proudly. “No one other than Team Neos would be genius enough to build a city sized base underground. We seriously rock!”

“As magnificent as that is, I have to ask. How structurally sound is it? I mean, what are the odds of Saffron City caving in on top of us?” Zack questioned.

“Or worse, the city’s sewage leaking in.” added Eve.

“Headquarters is structurally sound and secure, do not worry.” assured Raiden. “Now then, the Route 7 Gate House is the closest one to our location. Get yourselves ready, we head out in fifteen minutes.”
*****************

Are you excited? You should be.

Last edited by Psycho Monkey on Fri Mar 18, 2011 3:10 am, edited 1 time in total.

After reading this, I just think Eve is a good actress. One does not change that suddenly.

Agreed.

Raiden gave me such a shock with the whole spear-in-your-face thing, really big WTF moment. Up until then it seemed like a rather relaxed chapter that was used to poke fun (okay, serious bag out and portray her as even more evil than before) at.

And don't worry, I think everyone's excited about this.

Great chapter and excellent use of an in-game area.  And Now I think Raiden is the most badass character in the story.  Then Brian then Creed

Eep! Quick announcement everyone! It seems I posted the wrong chapter yesterday! :X  About a month ago, my laptop had a really nasty virus so I've been keeping a back up of everything on a flashdrive. I posted the unfinished back up file instead of the up-to-date chapter.    A few extra details have been added before Brian goes to fight Palmer so have a look if you've already read. If you haven't read, then what the hell are you doing reading the comments before hand? :/

Thanks to those who already commented!

You certainly never disappoint, Monkey. *Grins.*

I know I'm a bit late on commenting again, but I do love your recent character development. And while I know Eve wouldn't bounce around like that, realistically, she at least cares enough behind her quite frankly abhorrent attitude to act a little bit. Who knows, maybe we'll see a bit more of that side before she reverts to the usual. *Chuckles.* But then again, probably not.

As for Raiden, he just seems to be made of epic. And his polearm, whether in particular a lance or a spear, only adds to it. Do you have a drawing of the Raikou anywhere? ^_^ 
I do like the occasional reinforcing of Raiden's status as the Third Seat, though. When seeing him regularly, without displaying the severity or skills, it drifts to the back of one's mind. But the chapters where he shows them point blank, or even the zero-tolerance of deserters in Neos in general, are something I'd imagine most people can't forget.

It was nice to see Brain getting some consequences for his cavalier actions, though. His Dragon-Forme side is cool, yes, but he's still techinically human. Meaning he - and judging from Raiden's opinion, as well - certainly isn't above the law. Well, if it can be called that. *Shrug.* But we're definitely getting some interesting development here.

Looking forward to more from you. ^_^

*Drags out of the Abyss >:D * Guess what today is everybody? Rise of Tam Neos's 3rd birthday! Three years ago today I graced PokeCharms with the first chapter of this fic and I've never missed a birthday since.

Even better news is that my writer's block is cured! The motivation to write has never been this strong in three years so hopefully you'll be seeing more of RoTN this year.

Now before I let you read this long awaited chapter, I'd just like to dedicate this chapter to Sir Red for without RoTN he would never have joined PokeCharms. Here's to you my Charms son!

Chapter 36: Counter Measures

Well ok, so Headquarters wasn’t exactly city sized like I thought it would be. The former Underground Path that had run east to west from Route 7 to Route 8 had only been expanded to cover the southern half of Saffron City. Even so, the ceiling was made with reinforced steel as a safety precaution, both to keep the city from caving in on us and to block Gym Leader Sabrina’s Psychic powers. Unfortunately Team Neos couldn’t use something intangible like Darkness to completely block her, hence why HQ doesn’t cover the northern half of the city where her Gym is located. At least not the top floor.

The north to south Underground Path that ran from Route 5 to Route 6 had traveled beneath the Routes 7 and 8 Path so that now served as the lowest floor of the base. That floor covered the entire eastern half of Saffron which unluckily was under Sabrina’s Gym. Once again, reinforced steel made up the roof. It amazed me to no end how such an elaborate structure had been created without anyone noticing. Not just the actual construction work, but also the amount of money this place must have taken to expand and fill with state of the art equipment. The ingeniousness and ingenuity of Team Neos truly was amazing.

In the week since we got here, I have done nothing but train myself and my Pokémon. Team Neos had three types of battle facilities: one for Pokémon Battles, one for human verses human brawls, and one for squad verses squad. For Pokémon Battles, I only challenged my fellow Officers. I wouldn’t refuse a battle if a Grunt challenged me, but I wouldn’t go after them. As far as competition went, the Grunts were a cake walk and barely a warm-up to me while the Officers were a mixed bag. The ones on the lower end of the spectrum got curb stomped, while the ones at the higher end made for really close challenging battles. In the few battles I lost, most could have gone either way while only one or two was an uphill struggle from the get go. I liked the idea that on the Officer hierarchy I was one of the elites, but then I guess I wouldn’t have been chosen for Raiden’s personal squad if I wasn’t.

I also dabbled in fighting my fellow Team members in hand-to-hand combat. To keep things fair I always restrained my Dragon abilities since I didn’t want to shred my own comrades with that destructive power. Ironically, like Pokémon Battles, I found the Grunts to be easier to dominate in a sparing match and Officers to be a mixed bag. It’s like Raiden always said, “A Pokémon is only as good as its Trainer.”

As for the squad verses squad training, that also came in several flavors all of which tested teamwork. Before going a round, the squads would agree on whether this would be a group battle where we have a big battle royal like we’ve experienced in the field, or if it would be a sort of hide-and-seek/ambush scenario. For that one, one squad tries to find the other before getting found themselves. Naturally, this training room was incredibly large and had holograms simulating outdoor terrain and/or obstacles to navigate around.

Unfortunately, due to recent events, Raiden wouldn’t let us do this type. He said that our teamwork needed refining before challenging others. That is why every morning we divided into 2-on-2 battles with each other where the goal wasn’t to win, but to cover our partner and achieve victory because of them. Since there were five of us, we were doing rotation battles meaning one person sat out while the other four battled and then had their turn while someone else was on the sidelines.

After that, we were free to go about our own business which is when I engaged in my other battles. Luckily being barred from combat wasn’t part of my probation. Raiden agreed that it is important that my Pokémon and I remain in top fighting condition for when we go back in the field. I did however have to constantly report in so that he knew my whereabouts and what I was doing at all times. It was like being treated like a child and I hated it! Not even my own parents had given me a curfew or such conditions! But I did bring this on myself afterall so I guess I shouldn’t complain.

“Heads up!” I had no time to react before Axel smacked me upside the head.

“Ow! What the hell was that for?” I yelled at him holding the back of my head.

“You looked distracted. So what’s on your mind Monkey Boy?” asked my partner as we walked to the training facility to meet up with Raiden and the others.

“Oh you know. This and that.” I responded nonchalantly. “Just thinking about recent events and how things just seem to be so messed up and weird right now. Even with all the battling and training, it just doesn’t feel right knowing that Team Rocket is still out there committing crimes and hurting those who can’t defend themselves. I hate doing nothing about it!” I raised my voiced and clenched my fists on the last sentence.

“Except you are not doing nothing about it.” I turned around to see Raiden coming down the hall to the facility as well. “Everyday you and your Pokémon spend battling and training is a day you all grow stronger both as individuals and as a unit. It is so that when the time is right, we can defeat our enemies no matter how many or how formidable they may be.” he explained sagely.

“I know you’re right Master, but still…” I sighed unhappily. Axel gave me a reassuring pat on the back.

“Hang tough. We’ve been through worse.” reassured the Flame Pokémon. “I think.” he added after a pause.

“Come. Our battle today should take your mind off things. I have a special surprise for you four.” hinted Raiden. That perked me up a bit. What could he possibly have in store for us? Whatever it is, I’m excited!

Much to my continued restlessness, Raiden and I were the first ones to arrive so we had to wait for everyone else. Within fifteen minutes, Zack, Chane, and finally Eve arrived to join us. Of course Eve would be the one to hold us up. In our double battles, she is the hardest one for me to work with. The main reason is because I still despise her for freezing me, and secondly because our battle styles are just so contradictory. I’m the type to adapt to any situation as the battle progresses. She, on the other hand, wants to control the battle from beginning to end which includes my movements as well. So frustrating!

“Good morning everyone.” greeted our superior formally. “Today we are taking your training to the next level. All four of you will work together in trying to defeat me.” he announced.

“A-are you serious Raiden? We’re not strong enough!” Chane said doubtfully.

“And no offence to Lloyd, but I don’t think he and I will be much use against your Electric-types.” Zack pointed out.

“Alone I could defeat you all, but working together you may have a chance. And do not worry Zack. If your teammates properly watch out for you, then Lloyd will receive minimal damage.” encouraged Raiden. “Here is my proclamation: I will use all six of my Pokémon at once, while you all are only allowed one each.”

“Hold on! How is that fair?” Eve called out. “That’s four against six and none of us have beaten you in the past when doing double battles.”

“Like I said, all four of you need to work together.” he repeated. “In the field you will face multiple powerful Trainers and Pokémon at once with only limited numbers on your side. Alone you are strong, together you can be unstoppable. Now choose your Pokémon wisely. It has to be one that will benefit your teammates. Picking a Pokémon with Earthquake to counter my Electric-types is practical in single battle, but catastrophic in multi-battle. You have one minute to select.”

With that, Raiden threw down all six of his Pokéballs releasing Electrode, Manectric, Magnezone, Raichu, Jolteon, and Electabuzz. Zack’s choice was obvious, despite Raiden’s warning, Eve chose Steelix, Chane went with Lucy to help heal the rest of us, and I selected Axel since his Fire/Fighting-type combination will help with Magnezone.

“Good choices. The first move is yours.” offered Raiden.
---------

Unbelievable. Absolutely unbelievable. In just ten minutes Raiden swept all four of us losing only Magnezone and only because we all ganged up on it at the start. The rest of his Pokémon were just too fast and too strong.

“Well that was depressing.” Raiden said stoically. “Combined, your power levels should exceed my own. How disappointing.”

“We told you this would happen! We knew there was no way to beat you!” Eve snapped. Raiden only shook his head.

“Master Raiden. It’s because we had doubt in beating you that we failed, correct?” I asked remembering from past experiences.

“Correct. If you go into battle believing you will lose, you will. Go into battle believing you can win and complementing one another’s movements and battle styles will give you the power you need to overcome your foes.” he enlightened. “Now go heal your Pokémon. I want to try this exercise again.” Raiden was interrupted by the sound of his phone ringing. He reached into his pocket pulling out his cell phone.

“Third Seat Arka speaking.” he answered professionally. “…As a matter of fact I am with my squad right now. …Yes, I understand. …Very well, we will do that at once.”

“So what’s the deal?” Zack inquired once Raiden hung up his phone.

“That was Lt. Deter. The Captains have come to a consensus on what to do about the Team Triad problem. We are to gather in the auditorium in one hour to hear what they have to say.” informed Raiden. I started grinning. Finally!
--------

The auditorium was gigantic! It was several times larger than the training facility in Goldenrod where I was recruited and had enough room to comfortably fit hundreds of Neos at once. And it was packed! Neos members of all ranks were crowded around like any other major gathering. At the front of the room was a small stage where people could give presentations and above the stage was a huge TV screen. I guess that was to show the people in the far back what was going on up on stage.

“How much longer until the Captains show up?” Axel asked me.

“Soon I hope.” I said in anticipation. I was eager to finally meet the three highest ranking members of this organization besides Strife and Arthias. I couldn’t help but feel jittery. Soon enough, a handful of people dressed in our uniform walked on to the stage including a certain obnoxious midget.

“Alright listen up you maggots!” Lt. Deter yelled to all of us. “Stand at attention to formally present yourselves to the superiors you lesser beings could never hope to strive to compete with!” Well isn’t he an encouraging little man. Surprisingly, that ego maniacal runt wasn’t up on the big screen like I thought he would be.

“Don’t you just want to kick that little shit?” Eve said darkly. I could almost imagine her picking Little Charlie up by his head, letting him go, then punting him over the horizon. Just the thought made me giggle. The sound of static alerted me to the TV screen coming on. Three boxes appeared on the screen arranged with two on top and one on the bottom. Inside each box was the face of one of the Captains. I guess they weren’t coming here in person after all. Oh well.

“Yo Team Neos! I am Captain Gabriel King!” greeted a cheerful man with spiky brown hair and bright blue eyes giving us all a quick wave. His image was at the top right.

“Captain King, please act more professionally.” scolded a man with long silver hair and dull green eyes. He was in the top left corner of the screen. “Forgive my colleague. I am Captain Damian Sinclair.”

“Aw don’t be such a kill joy Damian. What’s wrong with being cordial with our underlings? Hi! I’m Captain Alexandra Ross!” introduced a woman with shoulder length dark red hair and blue eyes on the bottom part of the screen. So she’s the captain Raiden mentioned.

“Yeah, you tell him Alex!” supported Captain King. “Anyway, let’s get down to business before we lose credibility with our organization. As I’m sure all of you are aware of by now, in the wake of Team Magma’s demise at the hands of yours truly, Teams Aqua, Rocket, and Galactic joined forces and are now calling themselves Team Triad.”

“Since the appearance of Team Triad, our success rate for intervention missions has gone down 70%. That is unacceptable.” Captain Ross cut in. “Our people are out numbered and out classed by these new developments. Or so it would seem.” she added with a smirk.

“Our Black Ops department has made a crucial discovery that will turn the tides of combat back to our favor.” said Captain Sinclair professionally. The screen changed to displaying a world map of Hoenn, Johto, Kanto, and Sinnoh. “The unity of these past rival organizations is not without its costs. Their alliance is an uneasy one. It functions solely on equivalent exchange. For example, for every Rocket and Galactic sent to Hoenn to aide Team Aqua, an Aqua must be sent abroad so the other Teams do not feel cheated or weakened.” the Captain’s voice continued as blue arrows spread out of Hoenn to the other three regions while black arrows came out of Kanto and Johto and grey arrows came from Sinnoh leading into Hoenn.

“I’m sure a lot of you are now wondering why your squads have been out numbered on the field even though the number of foes remains the same.” Captain King chimed in. “Team Triad wants us to think they’re unstoppable by travelling in larger groups. Instead of having, say, ten groups of five, they’re in two groups of twenty-five now. They’re working together but they’re still scared of us. They want us to be afraid too so they try to intimidate us. They think fear will weaken us.”

“But it will not.” The three Captains reappeared on screen as Captain Sinclair spoke those rousing words.

“If all of you are as smart as I hope you are, you should have already figured out what we have planned.” Captain Ross teased at. “To beat our enemy’s unity and numbers, we must unify our own forces and increase the numbers within our squads.”

By her words alone I was already getting psyched to the point I wanted to laugh maniacally, but I suppressed my excitement until they finished so I wouldn’t miss any important details.

“The very existence of Team Triad shows us that our enemies are no longer playing around meaning we should not play around either.” Captain Sinclair declared. “As usual, Grunts will not be assigned intervention type missions. They will continue with their usual duties. Likewise, squads consisting of only Officers will not be assigned to intervention missions. To engage with Team Triad, squads must include a minimum of one Seated Officer. Low level seats like Tenth and Nineth must be accompanied by another Seated Officer. No exceptions.”

“Also,” Captain King spoke up, “even with the union of squads, my fellow Captains and I feel that is still not enough to defeat Team Triad. The moment Galactic, Rocket, and Aqua teamed up, they declared open war on Team Neos. Therefore, you will show no mercy! In the past, killing your opponent was left up to the individual or commanding officer. No more. If we are to win, they must be eliminated.” he ordered.

“K-kill them…” Chane repeated nervously.

“Don’t worry. I’ll kill your opponents for you.” I assured her. After all, my hands were already stained with blood, what’re a few more casualties? Still, I love the idea that I now have direct orders from the Captains themselves to carry out my vengeance.

“Another thing.” continued Captain Ross. “From now on, we aren’t going to wait for them to strike and send our people to intervene. No, now we hunt them down! We seek them out, catch them off guard, and slay them on the spot. I’m not even talking about small cells or groups either. The fastest way to kill an Arbok is to cut its head off. We will seek out their command centers and eliminate the chain of command from the top. Not only will the rabble have no direction without their leaders, but they’ll have no where to return to as their bases will be under Neos control.”

“We’ll leave the responsibility of reorganizing the squads to the lieutenants as they have a better idea of the Seated’s strengths and weaknesses.” delegated Captain King. “Remember, be ruthless. Hunt them down and kill them. Interrogate them for information if you must, but leave no survivors. Well, see ya everyone!” The Captain gave a quick slute before his screen went blank.

“Do your worst!” Captain Ross instructed before signing off as well. Captain Sinclair only sighed before his screen also went off.

After a few seconds of silence, the auditorium came to life with roars of cheers and laughter. Everyone was thrilled by the words of our Captains. It meant Team Neos wasn’t beaten yet. In fact, it seemed like we were just getting started! As for me, I was so excited I was trembling and bouncing on the balls of my feet. We would soon have enough manpower to bring the Rockets, or Triad, whatever the hell the want to be called, to extinction! Yes!

“Listen up everyone!” shouted one of the other Lieutenants. “You are all dismissed until further notice! We will notify you all once we have determined how to merge the squads as per the Captains’ decree and where you will be assigned! That is all!”

“Raiden? W-we won’t be separated will we?” asked Chane in concern.

“We should not be. This merger should only add members, essentially evolving us from a squad of five to a unit of twenty or more. If we are to be separated, then I will inform Captain Ross that I wish to keep each of you as my direct subordinates.” he responded.

“She was pretty hot Raiden and you seem to know her quite well. So what’s the story?” asked Zack in a naughty tone.

“If you must know, when I first joined Team Neos she was my my commanding officer much like I am yours.” he answered matter-of-factly. “Other than that, Captain Ross is my superior and I am her subordinate.”

“So does that mean she’s available?” Zack questioned eagerly.

“Captain Ross’s personal life is none of our business. Show some respect.” Raiden shot down mercilessly.

“If you need me or Axel, we’ll be trainer for the slaughter!” I announced.

“Very well. Keep your phone on for any new announcements.” instructed Raiden.

“Will do. Come Monkey!” I headed to the battle facilities with Axel in tow.
----------

The next day around noonish we were assembled again in the auditorium for the reworking of the teams. The lieutenants began naming off squads based on who the Seated Officers in charge were and telling them who they would be teaming up with. Some were as simple as saying “Join with a team of Officers that serve under you,” while other assignments made it so that the new unit consisted of multiple Seateds.

“First Seat Ken Feng! Second Seat Skylar Eirwyn! Third Seat Raiden Arka! You three will be merged together. You will also gather one of your other Officer teams that serve under you.” Lt. Deter announced when it was his turn to speak. “Your unit is responsible for cleaning up the entire Sevii Island region which is why you are allowed so many high leveled trainers.”

“Is that little man still mad at us for the mess we made in Ecruteak?” Axel wondered.

“Who cares! As long as I get to shed Rocket blood, I don’t care if we’re sent out to the boonies or the big city. And with two members theoretically stronger than Master Raiden joining us, there is nothing we can’t do!” I cheered.

“Out of Raiden, Eirwyn, and Feng, Raiden is the lowest ranked so I wonder who will lead us.” Zack mused.

“I will still be in command over the four of you and which ever Officer group I select to unite with us, however Feng will most likely make himself supreme commander. With him there is no democracy.” Raiden told us. It sounds like he has personal experience with the First Seat, but I wasn’t asking any questions no matter how curious I got. Knowing Raiden, he’d either answer evasively or so bluntly that no real answer is given.

After the announcements, we were dismissed and the Seateds were ordered to go through their rosters and select as many squads of Officers as they were previously instructed to. Raiden was given forty eight hours to select a group and join up with the other two Seateds. After that, our witch hunt in the Sevii Islands would begin!
************

Now I haven't written anything besides RP posts and scientific papers in the last nine or ten months so I apologize if this chapter wasn't the quality you're all used to. I'm a bit rusty ^^;

First!

I gotta say that I'm thrilled to see a new chapter! I just got all caught up a few days ago and I was eager for more. Sure, this chapter may not have had a lot of action, but it served it's purpose and I definitely liked it. Personally I can't wait to see how the team really learns how to be a cohesive unit capable of wrecking anything >:D

Blood, blood, gallons of the stuff...

Yay! I wonder if direct human/Pokemon confrontation will occur now.

Now I haven't written anything besides RP posts and scientific papers in the last nine or ten months so I apologize if this chapter wasn't the quality you're all used to. I'm a bit rusty ^^;

I'll admit it wasn't quite the same as previous chapters. But it was an interesting interlude, it was short (which I was looking for now) and it's nice to get a new chapter after so long. I have to admit, I'd quite forgotten about this! I really look forward to new installments =D

Finally I've we've all been waiting awhile for this.

**NOT AN UP DATE!**
Just saying that now before you people get your hopes up. This is a request from Carmen which I figured would be helpful to all of you as well. Since this fic is pretty long (in fact I dare say it is the longest on PokeCharms) and I (unintentionally) took almost a whole year off from it, I've made up a character sheet based on who has what Pokemon species and what their nicknames are. This only covers the main five. I'll post another one later that has other character's Pokemon. Enjoy.

Brian:


Axel (Thanks goes to Tailon for the gold furred sprite )


Riolu


Beldum


Piloswine


Snorlax


Aerodactyl


Eve:


Diva


Walrein


Luxray


Roserade


Steelix


Nidoqueen


Chane:


Jace


Izzy


Luna


Celia


Kermit


Lucy


Zack:


Lloyd


Raiden:


Electabuzz


Raichu


Electrode


Magnezone


Manectric


Jolteon

**NOT AN UP DATE!**
I've made up a character sheet based on who has what Pokemon species and what their nicknames are. This only covers the main five. I'll post another one later that has other character's Pokemon. Enjoy.

You're post is ridiculously long. You should have arranged it like this:

Brian:

Axel - Riolu - Beldum - Snorlax - Aerodactyl

And so on. Nit-picking aside, keep the writing going, Monkey. =)

Hi guys! I have a secret for you. I updated!

Chapter 37: Restoring the Balance of Power

This morning we had a meeting in one of the conference rooms to get acquainted with our new unit. Including me and the members of my squad, there were now 22 officers and with the Seateds we had a total of 25 people. After the Seated Officers introduced themselves and took roll call, we departed immediately for Vermillion City to charter a ferry for the Sevii Islands.

As for the Seated Officers, they couldn’t be more different from each other. As I already knew, Raiden was calm, rational, and laidback. That is until you did something stupid that warranted getting a spear pressed against your throat. Second Seat Skylar Eirwyn was an albino female of average height. Like most albinos she had long silver hair and icy blue eyes. She was polite and respectful towards us but also seemed like she could be pretty stern when she needed to be.

Then there was First Seat Ken Feng. He was a very tall thinly built man with narrow condescending grey eyes and long wiry black hair that flowed freely passed his shoulders down to the base of his shoulder blades. I can see why Raiden warned us about him because he was very harsh with the group and acted like he was the most superior person in the room. Technically he was by rank, but still. He even pulled the rank card to name himself commander of our unit just as Raiden anticipated. But enough about that.

Axel and I leaned on the rail of the ferry enjoying the ocean scenery. It was a bright sunny day with semi-choppy waters. The sea was getting rougher the closer we got to the Sevii Islands but the ferry remained unwavering. It was because of these rough waters that the only way to get from island to island was by boat or by flying. No matter how strong a swimmer a Water-type was, it couldn’t look after itself and its trainer at the same time in these currents so it was considered too dangerous to Surf.

“Brian, a word?” Raiden requested coming up behind us. Before I could say anything he motioned for me to follow him inside. The interior of the ferry had two floors for people to rest in in case of bad weather. We were on the lowest floor and from what I could tell completely alone.

“So what’s up Master Raiden?” I asked. He looked around to make sure that no one was around or eavesdropping on our conversation before speaking.

“Brian, these upcoming missions are going to be treacherous and will push us to our limits. Even so, I do not want you to use your Dragon-Forme anymore.” he requested.

“Part of my probation?” I questioned irritably. Our orders from the Captains were to kill and yet he was taking away my most effective weapon.

“No. It is for your safety. Only the five members of our squad know of your… uniqueness.” said Raiden stumbling to pick the right word to describe that particular trait of mine. “I want to keep it that way. I especially do not want Feng to know. If he knew just how powerful you really were he would attempt to use you like a tool.”

“I would never allow that to happen.” Axel interjected.

“Neither would I. You know I serve no one but you.” I stated.

“I have known Feng for over six years. You have no idea the kinds of underhanded methods he will use to get what he wants. There is a reason he is a First Seat.” he said coldly.

“I see. I’ll be careful then. But how am I supposed to kill my enemies if I restrain my inner dragon?” I asked.

“The same way us normal humans do: your combat skills and your Pokémon. I would offer you a weapon, however that violates your probation.” he said matter-of-factly.

“We’ll work together as we always do!” Axel agreed.

“Damn right we will! I’m already a badass human and when working with you and my other Pokémon there is nothing we can’t do!” I declared.

“Just do not be reckless. I do not want a repeat of the incident in the Safari Zone.” warned Raiden.

“No worries Milord. With all of you guys backing me up I won’t have to rampage.” I assured waving my hand.

“But rampaging recklessly is the best part!” whined Axel. “*sigh* But I guess you’re right. We have to behave ourselves if we ever want to get off this stupid probation.” I felt the same way as my monkey. Act like a good boy now, enjoy wanton destruction later. I just hope there would still be some to be had.

After our little chat, we went back outside to await landing in One Island Port. It never made sense to me why the islands all had their own name like Knot Island, but the towns were ‘Number’ Island. There must have been a lot of lazy settlers back in the day. Our first stop was Knot Island for two reasons; first, it was the island closest to Kanto, and second, tomorrow there was a convention in the Pokémon Net Center where all the big names in the Pokémon Storage System industry would be attending. All Team Rocket needed to do was crash the convention, take hostages, steal passwords, and everyone around the world who uses the Storage System, including me, would have their Pokémon at the mercy of those criminals.

As soon as we arrived at One Island, the Seateds gathered everyone in the apartment complex we were renting to go over the battle plan. The place was bigger than expected given the island’s small population. Apparently because Mt. Ember was a popular destination for Trainers to train their Pokémon, Treasure Beach was a popular tourist attraction, and of course the Net Center being what it is, the island’s main business was temporary housing.

“The plan for tomorrow is to send two people into the Net Center as guests. They will be A-Squad. When Team Triad shows up A-Squad will radio the rest of us and we send in a small squad of three to five people. They will be B-Squad.” Feng started off.

“The reason we’re sending in such a small group is to lure our enemies outside away from the civilians. That way no innocent people get hurt and we have more room to fight.” Skylar said.

“And also so we do not lay ruin to the Net Center with all the chaos a massive Pokémon battle like that can cause.” added Raiden shooting me a sideways glance. Axel and I quietly giggled to ourselves remembering the destruction we caused in Ecruteak.

“The two that were there as guests will make sure that every Aqua, Rocket, and Galactic leaves the building before joining us outside to help wipe them out. Any questions?” Skylar finished.

“I have one!” Zack called raising his hand. “Are you single?” he asked the Second Seat.

“Zack!” scolded Raiden.

“Yes I am. What of it?” she responded.

“You’re a very beautiful woman. Would you like to go on a date with me?” he flirted shamelessly. I started snickering about how open he was about this.

“Really Kaguya?” Eve said unamusedly.

“You dog! What right do you think you have to say such a stupid thing to your superiors?” yelled Feng. Zack got grumbles from people I’m assuming were in Skylar’s squad. The Second Seat however seemed amused.

“I like your initiative. But I only go out with strong Trainers. Prove yourself in battle and I might say yes.” she promised. Raiden face-palmed and shook his head.

“You won’t be disappointed.” agreed Zack.

“And here I thought things would get boring with all of these people added.” Axel laughed.
-----------------

The following day all the players were set. I would be part of the squad that would stumble in and try to lure Team Triad into our trap. Along with me were three other people that I didn’t know. We waited in the mountains behind the Net Center out of view waiting for the signal to attack from the two inside who were also people I didn’t know. Everyone else were scattered either in the mountains or in the trees to swoop in when we brought out Triad.

“So how is everyone today?” I asked out of boredom and to make small talk with my new accomplices.

“Can’t complain.” replied a male.

“I’m just mad I’m missing the Ponyta Race today.” said another.

“I’ve got you covered. I was TiVoing it myself.” a female responded.

“Awesome! Mind if I come to your room later and watch it with you?” he asked.

“Sure. You’re all welcome to come over if you want.” she offered.

“Yeah I’m in.” said the first guy.

“Why not? I had nothing better to do.” I accepted.

“B-Squad!” the walkie-talkie we had shouted in Feng’s voice. “A-Squad has reported that Team Triad has appeared! Get down there at once!” he ordered.

“Aye aye Captain.” I said back to the walkie-talkie even though I wasn’t the one holding it. Axel and I jumped down the cliff, though the monkey was much more agile about it than I was, followed by my accomplices. I grinned with excitement on how I would take my revenge for what happened in the Safari Zone.

The Pokémon Net Center looked similar to a regular Pokémon Center only it was twice the size of a normal one and had an orange roof instead of the standard Red Roof. It didn’t occur to me until now that the fact that this place also doubled as a Pokémon Center that there would be sick and injured Pokémon there that would also be vulnerable to those thieves, not to mention other Trainers. In the case of the latter, they were screwed whether they took on Triad or not. I could feel my Dragon blood welling up at the thought of combat but had to use every ounce of willpower I had to keep it suppressed.

When we finally reached the base of the mountain, we ran around the side of the Center to the front. Luckily our enemies were either too stupid or too full of themselves to bother leaving guards to protect the entrance allowing use to walk right in.

“And I was like: ‘Oatmeal? Are you crazy!?’” I said randomly and loudly when we entered to draw attention to us. I also got strange looks from my comrades who weren’t quite used to my ways yet.

As expected, our enemies consisted of a large group made predominantly of Rockets but there were still a fair amount of Aquas and Galactics in the mix as well. In the corner of the room were the hostages: the nurses that were on duty, some geeky looking people who must be with Pokémon Storage, and several civilians including the two members of Neos. They were being guarded by a Rocket and a Galactic.

“Uh-oh guys! I heard Team Triad would be here, but I didn’t think there would be so many!” said the female in our group.

“I don’t like this! We should get out of here! I don’t want to die!” shouted Ponyta-race-guy in a panicked voice.

“I agree! Besides, I don’t want them to steal my ultra rare, ultra unique, ultra powerful Infernape!” I threw in to feed their greed.

“You Neophytes aren’t going anywhere!” a female Rocket said readying a Dusk Ball. “Trap them with Spider Web Ariados!” she called throwing the sphere. A large red and yellow arachnid emerged and started spewing a sticky white substance at us. Perhaps I should have worded that better.

“Shit! Run!” yelled the other member of our group. I wasn’t sure if he was genuinely worried about our safety or if he was acting as well.

“Axel! Burn that web and let’s get out of here!” I commanded. The Flame Pokémon shot a quick Flamethrower turning the web into smoldering ash before it could reach us.

“Bye bye boo!” he taunted putting his thumb to his nose and waving at our enemies on his way out. Where did he learn that one? It’s great!

“After them!” shouted one of the criminals. I wasn’t looking behind me to see which Team they were from, but I’m assuming Rocket since this is their territory. As planned, a good many flooded out of the Net Center after us.

“Whenever you’re ready C-Squad!” my teammate said to the walkie-talkie. Jumping out of the trees and coming down the mountain were our reinforcements. Two people dressed in casual clothes exited the Net Center meaning all of our enemies were out here. Trap sprung! Now to clean up the trash.

“What is this? Where did all of these Neos come from?” an Aqua questioned sounding rightfully panicked.

“They saw us using a lot of people so they decided to do it too! Nothing but a bunch of copying monkeys!” spat a Galactic.

“Hey!” Axel yelled offensively.

“Let’s see… One, two, three, four…” Skylar trailed as she counted our prey. “Oh good! There are 25 of you and 25 of us. Kenny and Raiden, what do you think? One-on-one?” Feng growled at her obviously not liking getting referred to by his first name so casually.

“Yes. We have not yet had a chance to solidify proper teamwork strategies yet so that would be best.” Raiden agreed.

“You better watch me Skylar because my battle skills will turn you on!” Zack proclaimed.

“Now while they’re distracted talking! Attack!” commanded the Rocket in charge. Not waiting for them to strike, I went on the assault towards the nearest Rocket only to get cut off by a Galactic.

“Where do you think you’re going Neophyte?” he asked pompously.

“My fight isn’t with Team Galactic, however I do have a reputation to protect!” I said pulling a Pokéball from my belt. “Let’s go Beldum!” I called summoning the Iron Ball Pokémon to battle.

“Go Croagunk!” the Galactic responded sending out a blue frog with red cheeks, yellow eyes, black feet, and black hands with red middle fingers. The amphibian shuttered nervously at the sight of Beldum. “Attack them first with Poison Jab!” he commanded. The Toxic Mouth Pokémon’s fist glowed purple as it rushed to my Pokémon.

“Iron Defense Beldum!” I called. Beldum’s body sheened with a fresh coat of metal causing Croagunk’s attack to bounce right off.

“It didn’t work!?” my opponent cried in shock.

“Didn’t you know? Steel-types are immune to Poison-type attacks.” I informed. “Now for your Pokémon to feel a world of pain! Beldum! Use Zen Headbutt!” The Iron Ball Pokémon’s head glowed blue with Psychic energy as it rocketed at Croagunk.

“Attack first with Sucker Punch!” called the Galactic. The frog threw a punch at Beldum before it could hit. Beldum was temporarily stunned from the cheap shot but quickly resumed his assault dealing heavy damage to Croagunk. The amphibian staggered back with its hands over its stomach and its eyes wide with pain.

“Keep it up Beldum! Take Down!” I encouraged. My Pokémon reared back again before throwing its entire body into the frog.

“Pwn this n00b! Attack with Revenge Croagunk!” the Galactic ordered. And just who the hell does he think he’s calling a n00b? The Toxic Mouth Pokémon channeled all of its pain into a powerful punch that sent Beldum flying back a few feet.

“Now use Nasty Plot and Mud Bomb!” the Galactic followed up taking advantage of the situation. The amphibian rubbed its hands together with a malevolent smirk on its face. It then gathered up as much dirt and mud as it could off the ground into a giant brown ball which it then threw at Beldum.

“Power through that with Zen Headbutt!” I commanded. Beldum rocketed at the giant mud sphere that was hurdling towards it. The two collided with each other causing the Mud Bomb to explode sending its contents raining down on the field. Beldum, while staggering midair from the heavy damage it took, continued its attack. Croagunk attempted to dodge by jumping out of the way, but the Iron Ball Pokémon slammed into the frog’s side knocking it to the ground unconscious.

“No way!” cried the Galactic. “Hey guys! How about some help?” he called to his partners. Unfortunately for him, they were as occupied with my accomplices as he was with me.

“Now Beldum! Iron Head the Galactic!” I commanded mercilessly.

“No way! Chatot! Help!” he yelled throwing down an Ultra Ball. Appearing in a white light to take Beldum’s attack was a bird with a black feathered head shaped like a music note, blue wings, a green body, a yellow chest, white feathers around its neck, and more black feathers on its tail. The Music Note Pokémon squawked as Beldum smashed into it.

“Put that thing to sleep with Sing!” ordered my opponent. Axel and I covered our ears as we knew what was about to happen. Chatot chirped a relaxing melody that made Beldum drowsy until it finally succumbed and fell to the ground asleep.

“You did well Beldum.” I said calling back my Pokémon. “Have at it Aerodactyl!” I threw another Pokéball releasing my winged terror to battle. “Use Steel Wing!” The Fossil Pokémon screeched, flying at his opponent at high speed with his wings covered in metallic silver, then smacked the parrot.

“I like that move. Copy it with Mimic Chatot and use Steel Wing!” called the Galactic. Chatot flew at Aerodactyl with its own wing now metallic. My Pokémon shrieked in annoyance at having his attack used against him.

“Didn’t like that Aero? Then use something they won’t like! Rock Slide!” I suggested. The prehistoric predator seemed to enjoy that idea. He allowed himself to plummet to the ground landing on his feet and sending shock waves through the ground. Large stones erupted from the ground striking the Music Note Pokémon hard. Chatot fluttered weakly trying to stay airborne.

“Oh yeah? Copy them again with Mirror Move Chatot!” commanded my opponent. Chatot did the same movements as Aerodactyl yielding similar results. The parrot however lacked the experience, training, and natural talent Aerodactyl possessed meaning less rocks were produced for its Rock Slide.

“Hey Aerodactyl! Quit screwing around and finish this!” Axel taunted. The predator screeched angrily at the monkey for that.

“Well prove him wrong with Ice Fang!” I told my beast.

“No you don’t! Use Chatter!” the Galactic commanded. Chatot started making annoying cries but they didn’t last long. The Fossil Pokémon shut the bird up very quickly by sinking his serrated fangs into the bird causing it to squawk in pain, even more so from the frost coming out of the ancient predator’s mouth. Aerodactyl thrashed his head a bit then spit out the severely bloodied Music Note Pokémon. Its chest was still moving up and down so it was still alive, but it would need serious medical attention if it was to stay alive. My eye twitched at what my Pokémon had just done, but I can’t say I blame him. After all, soon I’ll be doing the same to the Galactic.

“What have you done?” sobbed the Galactic at the grievous harm caused to his Pokémon. He quickly returned it before any more harm could be dealt to it.

“Send out your next Pokémon if you have one.” I told the Galactic emotionlessly. Yes, Aerodactyl went further than he should have but this was war. Severe injurious should be expected. Besides, in the event Chatot dies from those injuries it will be spared the pain of losing its Trainer. “Axel, go fight.” I told my Pokémon.

“My turn finally!” the Infernape said excitedly while I recalled Aerodactyl.

“You’ll pay for what you did to Chatot! Avenge your partner Venomoth!” he called throwing a Pokéball. Emerging from it was a purple moth with big blue eyes and small fangs in its mouth. “Make that Infernape feel agony! Blast it with Toxic!” Venomoth spewed a purple liquid from its mouth that splashed all over Axel.

“Son of a bitch!” he yelled angrily.

“Hang in there Axel! Use Flame Wheel while I look for something to cure your Poisoning.” I told him getting out the Item Ball that held my backpack. The monkey’s head flame raged as he curled into a ball and rolled into his opponent. Venomoth let out a painful cry as it was left with a burn.

“Don’t let them win! Show them how l33t you are with Psychic!” called the Galactic.

“Fuck me.” the Flame Pokémon said in a deadpan tone. His sarcasm was quickly replaced by screams of agony as both he and Venomoth were surrounded by a purple glow. Along with this mental assault, the monkey was also being worn down physically by the effects of poison. The Poison Moth Pokémon however couldn’t keep its attack up long as it too was suffering from its burn.

“Axel! I found a Pecha Berry! Keep Venomoth busy with Fire Spin!” I commanded.

“’Bout time!” he said happily before blowing a fiery tornado at the insect trapping it in the spiraling vortex. I threw the Berry at Axel which he caught and quickly ate. In a few seconds he looked good as new.

“Break free with Gust!” my foe called. From inside the flaming cyclone came a powerful gust of wind sending sparks and embers flying, but it did nothing to free the hapless moth. It did do enough damage to Axel to annoy him a bit though.

“Finish it with Flare Blitz!” I commanded.

“With pleasure!” responded the Flame Pokémon igniting his entire body in a large inferno. He lunged into the fire and tackled Venomoth to the ground leaving the Pokémon unconscious. The Infernape got up and cracked his neck and arms a few time. “Too easy.” he chided.

“I can’t believe I lost to some Neoph--” I didn’t bother letting the Galactic finish his sentence before grabbing his face.

“You didn’t just lose the battle. You lost your life.” I said darkly. Since I couldn’t use my draconic abilities to kill this guy, I simply pinched his nose with my thumb and pointer finger while keeping my palm over him mouth.

“Grab his arms Axel.” I instructed to keep him from fighting back. The Galactic made muffled pleas for mercy, but they only served to waste what little oxygen he had. Eventually his eyes began to droop and his struggling ceased. I checked his pulse to make sure he was truly dead. I could still feel faint blood flow under my fingers meaning he had only passed out.

“Time to do this the old fashion way.” I said uncaringly. Axel and I laid the criminal on the ground where I placed my foot over his neck and pressed down until blood ran from his mouth from his smashed trachea. Now he was truly dead.

“You don’t seem as satisfied with this as you usually are.” pointed out my monkey noticing my melancholy.

“Our fight isn’t with Team Galactic. Our enemy is Team Rocket. The Galactics were just brought into it. And I know they’re criminals who deserve to be brought to justice like the Rockets, but still. This guy wasn’t malicious at all.” I reflected. “Heh. Maybe I’m just getting soft.”

I looked around the battlefield noticing that the rest of my unit was finishing up their fights as well and performing the proper executions of their enemies. I only saw three members actually using weapons. Raiden was obvious as I will never forget that spear he uses. Unlike when he threatened me with it, this time I saw sparks of electricity surging through it.

Since most everyone looks the same in their uniforms with a few customizations here and there, I can only assume the other weapon users were Feng and Skylar. The one who looked most masculine was carrying a large scythe with a flame pattern on its black shaft. The top of the shaft had what looked like a clawed hand on it with the pristine silver blade coming off from one of the fingers like a bat wing. The way the top looked was like a mutilated hand reaching out of the pit of Hell. The blood of his latest victim still on the blade only added to the look.

The more feminine figure carried two arm length wave swords that looked like the tusks of a Mamoswine. The blades were clean and white like fresh fallen snow. At least they used to be as they were now also stained with blood. I almost felt jealous that I didn’t have a weapon too. I’ll have to ask Raiden for a sword when I get off probation.

“I can’t believe you still haven’t evolved your Electabuzz yet! What the hell are you waiting for Arka?” chastised the man with the scythe confirming that it was Feng.

“I simply have not found an Electirizor yet. Besides, I am in no rush to evolve my Pokémon.” responded Raiden indifferently.

“Weakling! I evolved my Magmar first chance I got so it would be stronger.” Feng shot back.

“Now, now Kenny. Evolutionary stage isn’t everything.” said the woman with the wave swords confirming that she was Skylar. “After all, you’re still using a Metang.” she teased.

“That’s a different matter entirely.” he growled.

“Hey! Could someone please help us?” requested a woman running out of the Net Center. She had long red hair tied into braided twin-tails and wore glasses, a long black dress, a black bandana, and a green apron.

“We defeated Team Triad. What else is wrong?” Raiden questioned.

“While you were battling, Bill and Celio were kidnapped!” she said fearfully.

“*Grr* You said they had all left the building!” snarled Feng staring angrily at A-Squad.

“All of our enemies were out! There must have been some not in uniform like us!” one of them defended.

“Then we don’t have any time to lose!” Skylar said urgently. She then turned to the woman from the Net Center. “First, what is your name? We can’t have you leading us into a trap now.”

“Right. I’m Lanette Asher. I’m one of the collaborators for the Storage System. My sister Brigette is taking care of the other hostages now so please hurry!” begged Lanette.

“How many were there, how long ago did they leave, and in what direction?” asked Raiden already sending out Magnezone for aerial transport.

“Only two. They left only a few minutes ago, but I don’t know where because they used a Xatu to Teleport away!” she explained frantically. Well shit. That sucks. How are we supposed to find them now!?

“This could be a problem.” said Skylar. “If the Bill and Celio Lanette is referring to are Bill Sonezaki, the mastermind who invented the Storage System, and Celio Bush, the guy who networked the System between regions, then we’re in trouble.”

“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s get this hunt underway!” declared one of our members.

“Don’t you realize how involved Teleportation is?” criticized Feng. “If they had escaped on a Flying Pokémon then they wouldn’t have gotten far and we could head them off on one of the other islands. By Teleporting they could have easily warped as far away as Hoenn!” he yelled.

“U-umm… M-Miss Lanette? D-do either Bill o-or C-celio have their cellphones with them?” inquired Chane.

“Stupid girl! You think we can just call them and ask where they are?” ridiculed the First Seat.

“Quiet Feng! What’s your plan Chane?” Raiden asked.

“I-if we have a hacker in our group a-and one of them has th-their cellphone we c-can track them th-that way.” she suggested.

“I’m a hacker.” volunteered the quiet guy from B-Squad.

“I think they still have their phones.” Lanette said with uncertainty.

“Then what the hell are you waiting for? Hurry up!” ordered Feng. With that we went into the Net Center to use their computers. While the Storage people and our hacker got to work on tracing Bill and Celio, Axel and I made our way over to Chane.

“Chane! You’re a genius!” I congratulated.

“Huh? No no. It’s nothing.” she said modestly.

“On the contrary, you may have just saved this mission. How did you know that anyway? The cell phone thingy.”

“U-um.. well.. uh…” stammered Chane.

“Got ‘em!” yelled the hacker. “They’re on Kin Island. It looks like they’re in the Berry Forest.” he reported.

“Why there?” questioned someone. I think it was Ponyta-Race-Guy.

“Maybe they Teleported to the wrong location and got lost. With those idiots it wouldn’t surprise me.” Eve said.

“Regardless, we know where they are now. Let’s go Team!” Skylar commanded. We all made our way back outside and sent out our flyers.

“Mind if we steal a ride Brian?” requested Zack coming up with Lloyd.

“But of course. You always do.” I allowed. Aerodactyl was less than thrilled about the extra weight as usual, voicing his complaints in an irritable hiss. In moments our unit took to the sky with several people sharing mounts like Zack and I were.

“I’m surprised you didn’t ask one of the ladies if you could ride them.” I said sarcastically.

“Well you know. There were just too many to choose from and since we were so short on time I didn’t want to be a bother.” he replied. Aerodactyl screeched something at him.

“He said you’re still a bother to him.” Axel translated which I then translated for Zack.

“Well my apologies to you Noble Steed. But I wouldn’t ask if you weren’t such a robust and sturdy Pokémon that I knew could handle my burden.” he complemented trying to appeal to the Fossil Pokémon’s pride. All of us got his response in the form of a midair corkscrew and upside down loop. We each had to tighten our grips to stay on him.

“Bastard!” spat my monkey.
--------

When we finally reached Kin Island the sky in front of us was turning a dark shade of purple as the sun set behind us. Feng, Skylar, and Raiden pulled in front of our pack riding a metallic silver bird with red feathers inside its wings, a blue bird with cloud like wings, and Magnezone respectively.

“Fan out when we enter Berry Forest so that we cover more area. There are only two of them so there is no need for all of us to confront them at once. You all will travel in pairs while we Seateds go separately. Now land!” ordered Feng before his Skarmory dropped out of the sky.

“Good luck everyone!” Skylar encouraged as her Alteria dipped down as well.

“If you find them contact everyone else so that we do not waste time looking for what is no longer there.” Raiden told us before dropping as well.

“Looks like it’s you and me.” I told Zack.

“Sounds good!” he agreed. Everyone swooped down to the ground and ran into the forest after calling their Pokémon back.

Berry Forest was a lot bigger on the inside than it had looked from the air. It was spring and as to be expected the trees were a lush green and full of life. The air around the forest was rich with the delicious smell of berries. The sunset gave the forest a calm and relaxing glow. But now wasn’t the time to take in the scenery. We had Rockets to hunt!

“I’ll search from the trees. I can see further from higher up.” offered Axel.

“Go for it. Just don’t get distracted eating berries.” I told my partner knowing him too well to think he wasn’t going to stuff his face. The monkey gave me an indignant grunt knowing that I hadn’t fallen for his scheme. He jumped into the trees and started swinging from branch to branch grabbing the occasional berry along the way.

“Hey Brian. We’re travelling in pairs right?” Zack said. It wasn’t like him to state the obvious so I waited for him to continue. “And we have two enemies who have two hostages right? A group of four.”

“You want me to send out Riolu and see if he can’t pinpoint a cluster of four auras, is that it?” I surmised.

“Bingo.” he verified. I sent out the Emanation Pokémon and filled him in on the plan. Riolu closed his eyes sensing every movement in the forest. The only sound that we could hear was the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze and the more intense rustle of Axel moving about in the treetops. At once the puppy’s eyes shot open and with a bark he motioned for us to follow him.

“I’m starting to get a little jealous. Both you and Chane have had genius ideas today.” I said as we ran after Riolu.

“It’s no big deal. You have your moments too sometimes.” Zack said unconcerned. It wasn't long before Riolu came to a stop with a nervous look on his face.

“Rio?” I asked. The young Pokémon looked up to me and started barking. Axel jumped down from a tree with his arms full of berries.

“He says he senses a terrible aura up ahead. A fifth human has joined the others along with three Pokémon. He says one of the Pokémon is frighteningly strong.” Axel translated. I clenched my fists in anticipation. Three Pokémon could only mean a battle and if there is one new human it must be one of the Seateds. Riolu knows Raiden so the new one must be either Feng or Skylar.

“Let’s go Zack.” I said moving forward again. “I think something interesting is going on behind these bushes.” I took another step only for Riolu to grab my ankle. I looked down at the Emanation Pokémon who looked absolutely terrified.

“I don’t think you want to go any further.” said Zack noticing my Pokémon’s panic.

“Then I’ll look from above. Come on Axel!” I said climbing up the nearest tree.

“Right behind ya!” said the Flame Pokémon coming up under me. Luckily the trees in this part of the forest were densely packed because I had to cross two more with the help of Axel before I saw anything.

Standing in a clearing was a lone female Neos with a tall transparent purple specter wearing a witch hat. It had to have been Skylar and her Mismagius. Standing across from her were the two criminals standing with a lean green feathered bird Pokémon with large white wings and a bipedal dog with short white fur, a tuft of fur on its head shaped like a beret, and a long tail with a blue tip. Behind those the criminals that I’m still assuming are Rockets were two men on their knees and tied up. By the looks of things the battle had already started.

“Bring that ghost to its knees with Psychic Xatu!” called one of the Rockets.

“Smeargle! Bite it with Crunch!” ordered the other. Smeargle took its tail and wiped its mouth with the tip giving it a blue grin. When the Painter Pokémon opened its mouth globs of paint dripped from the upper lip and rose from the lower lip giving it a mouth full of large teeth. The canine then ran over and chomped down on Mismagius’s flowing body causing it to shriek an otherworldly cry. At the same time of this physical assault, the Magical Pokémon was being attacked mentally by a pink glow from Xatu.

“Mismagius! I’d like to settle this before nightfall. Use Psybeam on Smeargle and hit Xatu with Shadow Ball!” commanded Skylar. The Ghost-type turned its head down to Smeargle who was still gnawing on it and blasted the canine with a rainbow colored beam of energy. The Painter Pokémon yelped as it was flung into a tree before falling to the ground unconscious.

The Magical Pokémon then gathered the shadows cast by the setting sun on the forest into a huge sphere, the size of which I’ve never seen before. Usually the Shadow Balls I see are about basketball sized, but this one had to be at least twice that! Mismagius launched its massive attack at Xatu KOing the Mystic Pokémon with one blow. I sat in that tree completely awed by what I had just witnessed.

“No way! How did she beat us so easily!?” cried one of the Rockets in disbelief.

“Fine! We’ll return the hostages.” the other one submit bitterly.

“I’m afraid it’s too late for that.” Skylar said pulling out two Item Balls which burst open revealing her wave swords. She ran at her foes and with two swift strokes from both blades the Rockets fell dead. “Skylar used Ice Fang! It’s Super-effective!” she cheered.

“Looks like we still have a ways to go.” I whispered to Axel.

“To be that badass? Definitely.” he responded. As I watched Skylar untie Bill and Celio, I thought about all we had accomplished today. From my reflection only one thing was undeniably certain: Team Neos was not only back in the game, but we would win it!

Good to see a post from you! With the unification of the other teams, I'm looking forward to seeing the events as they lead up to the old prologue (the one you posted and then deleted with the server splat). This chapter was light (for your standards)but I know things are about to get real.

I'm certainly pleased with the manner in which you portrayed Smeargle's moveset abilities. I guess 'Sketch' was taken a bit literally.

Also, ponies! Oatmeal!

I'm glad to see this is back, I didn't know if you stopped writing or what.

Hiyo! This is chapter is pretty special in that it not only debuts Unova Pokemon but it also features cameos of two Charmian regulars as well!

Enjoy!

Chapter 38: Challenge of Water and Ice

Our hunt for Team Triad had led us to Floe Island. We had been relentless in our pursuit of them trying to find their hideout so that we could purge the Sevii Islands of their presence. And here in the town of Four Island we found a gang of them harassing the local Pokémon Day Care trying to steal the Pokémon being kept there. It reminded me of my first mission with my squad only this time there were more of us and we were more refined.

“Piloswine! Take Down!” I commanded. My mammoth boar rammed into the enemy Rocket’s Noctowl. The bird gave a weak hoot as it collapsed to the ground defeated.

“Damn you! That was my last one you bastard!” yelled the Rocket.

“Too bad. Fury Attack him Piloswine.” I said uncaringly.

“Me!?” he cried in disbelief. He was answered by the Swine Pokémon grunting then charging at him. The Rocket screamed in pain as he was repeatedly gored by Piloswine shaking his head side to side jabbing him with his tusks.

“Good job!” I congratulated when my Pokémon backed away leaving the bleeding carcass to fall to the ground. Now I just had one more opponent to take out. “Chane! You ready for me?” I called behind me.

“Y-yes… This one won’t say anything.” she replied mournfully.

“Heh! I won’t squeal! Not to you or that guy!” bragged the Rocket.

“Oh I wasn’t going to interrogate you.” I said evilly. “Piloswine! Use Ice Shard on that Rocket!” I commanded. Piloswine blew a breath of cold air that froze the moisture in the air into jagged blades of ice. The force of the wooly pig’s breath sent the Ice Shards flying into the Rocket’s body; neck, chest, arms, and legs since they were softest. Any that hit the head simply shattered on the skull.

“I miss the days when we could only leave them unconscious for the police to handle. Killing them is so… so cruel and unnecessary.” Chane lamented.

“It couldn’t be helped. They did this to themselves.” I reassured. Looking around it seemed like everyone else was finishing off their respective opponents. All the Aqua, Galactic, and Rocket bodies were being gathered into a pile for disposal. Just like our previous missions, a helicopter will come as soon as we call in that we’re done and carry them away. Unfortunately for now the elderly couple living at the Day Care will have a nasty graveyard in their front yard.

“You scoundrels!” yelled the voice of an old woman. Standing in the doorway of the house was the Day Care couple. Behind their legs were some of the Pokémon staying with them.

“Look what you’ve done! You’re worse than those crooks!” chastised the old man.

“Really? How about some gratitude you old fart!” shouted a Neos.

“That’s right! We just saved your sorry asses from these guys. You and all of your Pokémon should be thanking us!” said another.

“Thank you? You’re murders! Those gangsters were violent, but Team Neos is downright evil! There was no reason to kill them!” the old lady reprimanded. An Eevee with silver fur came out from behind the couple’s legs and yipped at us. “You tell them Lyni!”

I stood their taking the insults because I didn’t care how other people viewed us. I did what I had to be done. If I had to do evil to destroy evil, I would and I would have no regrets. Others however didn’t seem to share my sentiments. Chane had her head down in shame while some others looked like they were ready to fight the couple next.

“If you disapprove of us so much then why not take us on!” Feng challenged. I was wondering when he’d throw in his two cents. “Just be ready for us to kick that Shiny Eevee around like a football!”

“Enough! We accomplished what we came here to do. Let us leave it at that.” Raiden said stepping in.

“He’s right. Let’s just call it in.” Skylar said. “Oh, and it would be a really bad idea to call the police about those corpses. We’ll have a cleanup crew take care of it but they won’t come if there are cops around.” she told the elders. Each of us then threw down smoke bombs to cover our escape.
----------------------

I stared at a full map of the Sevii Islands that hung on the wall of the local Pokémon Center while I waited for my Pokémon to heal. This was our third strike on Team Triad since we arrived and yet we were still no closer to finding their base. We did a full sweep of Boon Island since that was the smallest of the seven and found nothing. All that remained on Floe Island that we hadn’t investigated was the Icefall Cave. I didn’t think anything would be there, but considering Team Magma’s base was in a freaking volcano, anything is possible. Triad could have set up there because of how unlikely it was.

“Sir. You’re Pokémon are ready.” the nurse said calling me over.

“Thanks.” I replied. “Have a nice nap?” I asked Axel.

“Fucking Hypnosis.” he muttered grumpily.

“Well I have an idea that will really wake you up, but I have to ask Master Raiden about it first.” I told him.

“And what idea is that?” the monkey asked with interest. I motioned him outside so that people in the Pokémon Center wouldn’t hear me.

“Call me crazy…”

“Crazy.”

“…but I was thinking that we go in Icefall Cave.” I finished.

“Forget crazy, dumbass is more like it.” Axel corrected. “Have you forgotten that you can’t stand the cold? And yet here you are willing going into a frozen cave where there isn’t even sunlight to keep warm. Dumbass dumbass dumbassdumbassdumba--” I punched Axel upside the head to shut him up.

“I’m aware of that.” I said annoyed. “The fact that cold and ice are my weaknesses means I just have to correct that right? We’ll go in for training and if we find Team Triad we kill them. That’s all there is to it. Besides, I’ll have you for warmth.” I explained.

“As if I’d let you snuggle me and take my body heat.” replied the monkey sarcastically. “Alright fine. It’ll be good training for me too since I know you plan on sparring.”

“Indeed.” I affirmed. I walked back inside and told Raiden of my plan.

“Interesting proposition. Very well, but Zack goes with you.” he agreed.

“What? Why? I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Besides, I don’t think anyone with any trace of sanity would want to join me in a freezing hole in the side of a mountain.” I defended.

“There are two reasons why you need a chaperone. The first is in case there really is Team Triad activity you two can work together. The second reason is because your probation prohibits you from wandering around on your own.” Raiden informed.

“That didn’t stop me when we were in headquarters.” I pointed out.

“You were never alone. You were in our base surrounded by our people. There you only needed to check in with me. Here the situation is a bit different. Take my offer or do not go.” Raiden negotiated sternly.

“As you wish Master.” I reluctantly agreed.
---------------

“Sorry about this Zack. I’m sure you had other things to do then babysit me.” I apologized as we trekked to the north side of the island.

“Don’t worry about it. If you think about it, I’m the only option you had really. Raiden has his obligations, you and Eve don’t get along at all since she turned you into a popsicle, and I’m sure you and Chane would be too busy trying to keep each other warm if you know what I mean.” Zack said the last part with a naughty tone.

“Actually, I’m not sure what you mean. Explain.” I told him. I knew exactly what he was implying, I just didn’t understand why.

“Never mind.” he said deciding to drop it. As I thought. He was just trying to imprint his dirty mind on mine. “Anyway, I have something to gain from this too.”

“Do you now?” I asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yup! Skylar wants a strong Trainer so by going in Icefall Cave I’m proving how tough I am!” boasted Zack going so far as to puff out his chest. I shook my head with a smile. He was hopeless but still so amusing. I actually hoped he would succeed this time.

To get to the cave, we had to Surf across a shallow lake on Lloyd and Snorlax. The moment we walked inside every hair on my body stood on end. Goosebumps ran up and down my exposed arms, neck, and face. I sighed from the rush of cold air and was able to see my breath. And this is still the entrance!

“Well then, shall we go deeper gentlemen?” I invited.

“Yeah sure.” said a not-so-thrilled Axel.

“After you.” offered Zack politely. The deeper we went in the more uncomfortable it got. My fingernails were already turning blue for crying out loud! Since it was only me, Zack, and our Pokémon, I activated my Dragon-Forme for the first time since I returned from the Battle Frontier.

“Ah what the hell was I thinking?!” I yelled now feeling more uncomfortable than ever. I grabbed my head and started flailing around trying to elevate my body temperature.

“You were thinking about this!” Axel yelled punching me in the chest. I stumbled back holding my ribs. “That was for hitting me earlier! And this is for willingly making both of us cold!” The Flame Pokémon swung a kick at me. I was able to recover in time to catch his leg. With a quick pull I was able to knock the monkey off balance causing him to fall on his back.

“Are you still mad about that Noctowl earlier?” I asked him knowingly.

“Yup! And I’m taking it out on you because you’re my favorite punching bag!” he admit jumping up and trying another kick which I blocked.

“Remember, this punching bag punches back!” I reminded throwing a right hook of my own which he caught in the palm of his left hand.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way you Dragon-typed freak!” he said with a smile. The monkey then pulled me in and kneed me in the stomach. While I was keeled over I felt Axel’s elbow slam into my back making me fall to the icy ground. Contact with the frozen earth actually hurt worse than any blow Axel could dish out. I pushed up and spun my body to kick at the monkey’s legs.

“Too slow!” taunted Axel jumping over my leg. He then swung his tail between his legs smacking me in the face.

“Why you!” I yelled grabbing his tail and throwing the Infernape down.

“That kind of hurt you know!” The Flame Pokémon did an uppercut which I avoided by leaning back. The two of us continued trading blows, dodging or blocking as many as we could.

“You’re right Lloyd. As much fun as it is to watch them, it’s too cold in here to just be sitting around.” I heard Zack say.

“Say huh?” I asked turning my head to them.

“Distraction!” called Axel hitting me in the nose.

“OW!! You simian bastard!” I screamed stumbling back holding my nose. I moved my hand and felt something wet leak from my nostrils. If that damn monkey gave me a nosebleed, he’s getting a major ass kicking! I wiped my nose with my arm only to find the substance was stickier and slimier than blood. “Ew! Snot! Damn cold making my nose run!” I grumbled.

“Hey Brian. Me and Lloyd don’t really spar like you and Axel do, so why don’t you and I have a battle? Ya know, so we aren’t just standing here freezing our balls off.” Zack suggested. That actually sounded like a pretty fun idea.

“Alright, you’re on! One-on-one, Axel vs. Lloyd, no restrictions!” I declared. Lloyd made some taunting sounding quacks.

“No way! You’re the one who’s going down Ducky!” retorted Axel.

“Let’s get started then! Lloyd! Reduce Axel’s fire power with Water Sport!” called Zack. The Golduck bathed himself with a light spray of water and continued to soak the field around himself for maximum effect. How that didn't give him hypothermia on the spot boggles my mind.

“You think I would have used fire on a Water-type? Ha! Axel! Attack with Mach Punch!” I called. The Flame Pokémon tightened his fist and then ran at Lloyd with incredible speed.

“Slide left!” Zack commanded. Lloyd jumped to his left and effortlessly slid out of Axel’s way. As for my Infernape, when he got to where his opponent was, he slipped and skidded forward on his belly.

“Wha?” I looked around in shock trying to figure out what happened when I noticed a ring of ice around where the Duck Pokémon was standing. So that’s what he did! The Water Sport froze as soon as it touched the ground allowing Lloyd to escape and cause his attacker to stumble. Brilliant move!

“Not bad Zack. Not bad at all.” I complemented. “I should have seen this coming from you, but whatever. Now that I know what you’re up too, I think I will use some Fire-type moves! Flame Wheel!”

“Just because you know what I’m doing doesn’t mean you can stop it! Water Pulse Lloyd!” countered Zack. While Axel spun at Lloyd in a fiery ball, the Golduck responded by blasting shockwaves of water at the monkey. Even with the damage he took, Axel still managed to land his hit, though it was weaker than what it could have been. I cracked my knuckles. Things were getting exciting now!

“Axel--”

“Hold on!” Zack cut off. He seemed to be concentrating on something else coming from behind him.

“What?” I questioned.

“Listen.” he said putting his finger to his lips. I walked over to Zack trying to pick out any unusual sounds. Amidst the echoes of the cave’s Wild Pokémon going about their business, I heard speaking.

“Really? Then where is it?” demanded a female voice.

“I told you, rare Pokémon. We just have to keep looking around the water that’s all.” a male voice replied.

“Should have brought scuba equipment with us in case it’s hiding underwater.” the female said snarkily.

“Nah, we have our Pokémon for that. I’ve got that really powerful one I lifted off of some sap not too long ago. It finally started listening to me too.” boasted the male. I snarled at hearing that this person stole a Pokémon from someone. Rocket or not, they’re dead now.

“Let’s go Zack.” I said waving him to follow me.

“Hold on. Let me lead this one. If you follow my queues we can use the terrain to our advantage.” he proposed.

“Works for me. Now let’s kick ass!” I shouted.

“Did you hear that?” the unknown male asked.

“We’re not alone in here!” the female figured out.

“Woops.” I said uncaringly with a big grin. Too late to ambush them. Running into our section of the cave were two people dressed in Team Aqua uniforms. The outfits were modified with long black sleeves coming from under their pirate shirts. Obviously they prepared for the cold more than Zack and I did.

“Who are you two?” demanded the female Aqua. She had black hair coming out from under her bandana down just above her shoulders and brown eyes.

“I’m a man looking for a lady to share my bed with. Will you be my lover?” Zack asked flirtatiously.

“Sorry but I’m taken by this ruggedly handsome man.” she said referring to her partner. He had a broad face, blue eyes, and no visible hair under his bandana. His eyebrows suggested he had brown hair.

“That’s too bad.” said Zack feigning disappointment. The man looked over at me and seemed to go from a serious face to an angry face.

“These two are with Team Neos! I’ve heard the Rockets talking about a brutal Trainer with a golden Infernape!” he figured out.

“Oh dear. Looks like the Meowth is out of the bag.” I said sarcastically. Still it might start getting dangerous if my enemies can identify me without my uniform.

“Dammit! These Neos are everywhere! Sean! We should kill these two here and now!” the female proposed grabbing out a Net Ball.

“You got it Abby! Especially if that one with the Infernape is as dangerous as the rumors say.” agreed Sean taking out his own Net Ball. “Sharkopath! Lunch time!” he said throwing the ball.

“Save some for Carcharias!” Abby said throwing her ball too. The Net Balls burst open revealing two almost identical torpedo shaped Pokémon which were dark blue on top and white on their bellies. They had glowing red eyes, two gill slits, a yellow ‘X’ on the top of their heads and on their rears, and long dorsal, pelvic, and pectoral fins. Their mouths were filled with long sharp teeth that were made for tearing flesh. Differentiating the two Sharpedos were the number of notches in their dorsal fins. Sean’s had three notches while Abby’s had two. Likewise, Sean’s had two claspers behind his pelvic fin indicating he was male. Since Abby’s lacked claspers, hers was female.

“Alright Axel, you think you can take these guys?” I asked already knowing the answer.

“Bring ‘em on!” the Infernape dared.

“Lloyd! Help out Axel! Remember Brian, follow my lead.” Zack advised.

“You got it!” I agreed. “Axel! Mach Punch anyone of your choosing!” I allowed.

“Intercept the Infernape with Aqua Jet Sharkopath!” Sean commanded. The Brutal Pokémon surrounded his body with water and shot at Axel like a torpedo while the monkey ran at it with his fist pulled back. Both Pokémon collided with each other doing serious damage to one another.

“Carcharias! Attack the Infernape while it’s vulnerable with Brine!” ordered Abby.

“Not so fast! You forget about me Beautiful?” Zack called jumping in. “Lloyd! Aqua Jet Carcharias!” The Golduck slammed into the other Sharpedo at high speed causing her to spew her salt water attack on Sharkopath instead of Axel.

“You ginger bastard! How dare you make me hit Sean’s Pokémon!” she yelled at him.

“Now that’s just plain rude.” defended Zack. “I don’t have freckles.”

“Don’t worry about it Abby. Sharkopath barely felt that. Now I say we go after the Golduck first! The Infernape will be easy once it’s alone!” Sean foolishly believed.

“You’re right! Carcharias! Eat that duck with Crunch!” commanded Abby.

“Lower its guard with Screech Sharkopath!” added Sean. His Sharpedo gave a terrible high pitched roar while the other made her way to Lloyd with her jaws wide open.

“You should never turn your back on an enemy!” I chastised. “Use Brick Break on Carcharias Axel!” The Flame Pokémon ran after the attacking Sharpedo, jumped in the air, and used his momentum to kick her in the gills with both feet.

“Nice save man!” Zack thanked.

“Don’t worry about it. Got a strategy yet?” I inquired. He smirked letting me know things were about to get good.

“I wouldn’t get too happy! You’re unguarded now!” Sean said to me. “Abby, take care of the Pokémon!”

“Right! Wash them away with Surf Carcharias!” she ordered. The Brutal Pokémon jumped into a nearby pool of water. She then rose out bringing a large tidal wave with her.

“Now rip him apart Sharkopath!” The other shark swam through the air at me with his mouth wide open ready to devour me. Axel and Lloyd had their own problem to deal with so I was on my own. I concentrated on gathering my draconic energy into my palm.

“Brian! Track right! Lloyd! Ice Beam!” Zack called breaking my concentration. I did as told only to find myself now sliding uncontrollably on a patch of ice. Instead of using Dragon Pulse like I intended, I instead converted the attack into Dragon Claw which I used to slow myself down. I whimpered as my fingers were now painfully numb.

On the other side of the battle, Carcharias was stuck at the top of a wall of ice thanks to Lloyd freezing the water. Like the silly Fire-type that he is, Axel was crouched with his hands over his head bracing for the Surf’s impact. When he realized what had happened, the monkey got up and acted bravely like he knew things would be ok from the start.

“Damn you! Carcharias! Use Focus Energy and break free with Slash! Then use Night Slash on the Golduck!” Abby commanded.

“Go after the Infernape with Skull Bash!” Sean added.

“Lloyd! Blast a Water Gun trail 20° to your right!” Zack commanded.

“Get ready to engage with Close Combat!” I called with my hands in my armpits for warmth. While Carcharias gathered her energy and then shredded her former Surf, Sharkopath charged at Axel with his head lowered. Meanwhile, Lloyd spewed at stream of water that extended all the way to my feet. The momentum of the Water Gun caused the Duck Pokémon to slide back. Unfortunately for Lloyd, he attacked too soon allowing Carcharias time to go after him. With her pectoral fins covered in darkness, the Bully of the Sea viciously slashed at him. Axel couldn’t even lend assistance as he was too busy engaging the other Sharpedo with Close Combat.

“Brian! Step forward!” Zack told me. I stepped on the now frozen water trail and found myself once again slipping and sliding.

“Zack, I hate you!” I yelled at him. This was not fun at all! Brilliant strategy, but still excruciatingly difficult for me. Axel grabbed Sharkopath by the pectorals and threw him aside. He then skidded over to intercept me.

“Gotcha!” he said grabbing my arm. Unfortunately, we kept sliding until hitting a rock that was in front of me and behind Axel causing us to fall on top of each other. “What happens in Icefall Cave stays in Icefall Cave.” he said pushing me off.

“Agreed.” I said. Up close I noticed a lot of small scratches and cuts on Axel’s body from the Sharpedos’ Rough Skin.

“Heads up!” he warned throwing me out of the way to catch Sharkopath’s jaws which were wide open. His teeth were covered in ice meaning the Bully of the Sea was trying to Ice Fang us from behind.

“Take this! Water Pulse!” Sean commanded.

“Oh fuck y--” Axel started before getting a face full of water.

“Lloyd! Ditch Carcharias with Strength!” commanded Zack. The Golduck grabbed his opponent, lifted her over his head, and flung her into Sharkopath.

“Thanks!” I called giving Zack a thumbs up.

“Sean! Let’s get them from underwater water!” Abby suggested.

“Great idea! Sharkopath! Dive!” he ordered.

“You too Carcharias!” followed Abby. Both sharks returned to the water preparing to attack at any moment from any direction.

“Zack.” I instigated shooting him a sideways glance.

“On it! Surf’s up Lloyd!” he acknowledged. The Golduck dove into the water after the sharks and summoned a huge tidal wave carrying gallons of water and two Brutal Pokémon with it. Lloyd slammed the water to the ground knocking the two sharks out cold.

“What the hell? No way!” yelled Abby in denial.

“I should have expected as much out of Team Neos. None the less, you will be beaten!” promised Sean.

“You shouldn’t make promises you can’t keep!” I taunted.

“Oh yeah? Crush him Sebastian!” the Aqua called throwing a Lure Ball. A large red crab with a white belly appeared. It had huge spikes growing from its back, large teeth-like protrusions coming from its lower jaw, and a giant left claw compared to its right. The Kingler slammed its left claw on the ground creating a small crater to show off its power.

“Show those weaklings the power of Team Aqua Lobo!” Abby called sending out a canine with thick shaggy black fur. The Mightyena growled at our Pokémon giving them a fierce glare. Both Axel and Lloyd fell for the Intimidation tactic. Even if they know it’s coming, it seems like getting Intimidated by formidable looking Pokémon is ingrained in a Pokémon’s instinct.

“Oh I’ve seen the power of Team Aqua and I have to say, I’m not impressed.” I mocked. “Axel! Show them their power is nothing compared to ours! Use Double Kick on the Mightyena!” I commanded.

“I don’t feel so good…” replied the Flame Pokémon in a daze. Dammit! That last Water Pulse must have confused him!

“The Infernape is defenseless! Get it with Bubblebeam Sebastian!” commanded Sean. The Kingler opened his mouth and shot off a stream of bubbles at Axel.

“Lloyd! Get in front of Axel and use Protect!” countered Zack.

“Lobo! Intercept Golduck with Thunder Fang!” Abby called.

“Get down and slide!” Zack shouted. Lloyd ran as fast as he could before dropping on the ice and letting the momentum carry him to Axel. I saw the jewel on his forehead glow blue indicating he had to use his psychic powers to stop exactly where he wanted. The Golduck threw his hands out creating a fluid bubble around himself and Axel which absorbed the bubbles from Sebastian. Lobo chomped at the barrier with its fangs coated in electricity. Because the bubble was made of water, it conducted all of the electricity and diverted it away from our Pokémon.

“Good work guys!” I complemented.

“It’s not over yet! Push Axel to me!” Zack requested getting a vial out of his pocket.

“Stop them! Crush them all with Crab Hammer Sebastian!” ordered Sean.

“You take care of Axel Lloyd!” I instructed moving to intercept the Pincer Pokémon. I held up both hands trying to catch his left claw as he swung it down on me. The Kingler proved tougher than I thought as the impact forced me to my knees. Even using every ounce of strength my Dragon-Forme offered, the giant crab was putting up an incredible fight. I was pretty much stuck in place until either Lloyd or Axel did something to distract or knock away Sebastian.

“I’ve got you this time! Jab him with Metal Claw Sebastian!” the Aqua commanded. Or he could go on the offensive and cause me serious harm. Joy. The Kingler’s smaller right claw turned metallic silver as he drew back his arm to stab me in my stomach.

“Lloyd! Disable that attack now!” called Zack desperately.

“Not so fast! Taunt the Golduck Lobo!” Abby countered. Before Lobo could act, it was blasted by a stream of flame.

“How about no.” Axel said still in a bit of a drunken state. Lloyd sent a blue psychic wiry string from his jewel which tied itself around Sebastian’s claw turning it back to its normal red and stopping it just millimeters from my body. The Pincer Pokémon was dismayed long enough for me to get out from under his claw and move to safety.

“Took your good ol’ time there.” I teased. Getting back to my feet was hard because my feet kept slipping on the ice.

“Yeah, well these guys aren’t exactly making it easy for us.” Zack pointed out. He was now getting Axel to drink the Full Restore he pulled out. The Infernape’s wounds slowly disappeared thanks to the rapid healing properties of the medicine.

“Better?” I asked my partner.

“Oh yeah! Let’s kick their asses back to Hoenn!” replied Axel punching his fists together.

“*Grrr* Sean! We have to beat these guys!” growled Abby in frustration.

“I agree! Slam the Infernape Sebastian!” Sean commanded.

“And you Bite the Golduck Lobo!”

“Get ready you two!” Zack prompted skating out of range of the incoming attacks. Sebastian turned with his left side facing our Pokémon, leaned to his right, and then lunged at Axel. Lobo did a similar maneuver by crouching and jumping forward at Lloyd. My guess is so that they wouldn’t slip on the ice.

“Now! Push off each other!” Zack commanded. Axel and Lloyd put their hands together and then pushed causing both Pokémon to slide on the ice to dodge their respective foes.

“Now attack Sebastian with Close Combat!” I called. Axel assaulted the giant crab with a series of punches, kicks, and the occasional tail smack.

“Smack that monkey away with Superpower!” Sean commanded. The Kingler slammed Axel with his claw with incredible strength sending him flying through the air. The Infernape attempted to catch himself as he landed, but the slick ground caused him to skid and fall flat on his face.

“Now attack with Stomp!” Sebastian scooted over to Axel, lifted one of his legs, and Stomped it down on top of the Flame Pokémon.

“No you don’t!” Axel rejected rolling away from the attack. Despite the fact that Superpower takes up so much energy it’s supposed to weaken the user, the giant crab was still leaving cracks in the ice and shaking the ground with every attack.

“Keep that damn Fire-type on the run! Crab Hammer!” Sean continued with delight. Sebastian slammed his giant claw down which Axel also dodged by rolling away. That also shattered the ice.

“Use Hydro Pump Lloyd!” Zack commanded at the same time my battle was going on.

“Sucker Punch that fool Lobo!” ordered Abby. Just before the Duck Pokémon could attack, Lobo smacked him in the face with its paw causing him to spew his attack off to the side.

“Now that wasn’t very nice.” Zack said casually.

“Not very nice? Do you have any idea how much trouble Team Neos has caused Team Aqua? How many of our members you people have killed? Not killing you and that partner of yours would be the nice thing to do!” Abby yelled furiously.

“So dinner and a movie is out of the question?” asked Zack pretending to miss the point.

“You are so dead! Tear this four eyed idiot to shreds with Crunch!” commanded his opponent. The Mightyena barked and ran at Zack with its jaws wide open.

“Lloyd! Water Pulse!” he called in defense. The Golduck blasted rings of water from his beak which hit the Bite Pokémon in its flank diverting it from Zack.

“For the record, I only have two eyes. These just improve my vision because I’m far sighted.” Zack said tapping the rims of his glasses.

“Lobo! Attack with Take Down!” commanded Abby deciding to ignore Zack’s taunts.

“To the left!” Zack countered. Lloyd turned his head right and shot a Water Gun which allowed him to slide left and dodge Lobo. “Now Aqua Tail!” the Golduck secreted water from the pores on his tail smacked Lobo.

“Vice Grip with both claws!” Sean ordered getting annoyed with Axel’s last two rolling dodges. Sebastian attacked with both claws and caught my Infernape in his smaller one. “Alright! Now finish it wi--”

“Sean! Behind you!” Abby called. Before my opponent could react, Sebastian was hit in the back by Lobo.

“Guess that Aqua Tail was a Critical, huh?” mused Zack.

“Now’s your chance Axel! Double Kick!” I called. The monkey gabbed the claw that was holding him for stability and then kicked the Kingler in the face twice causing his grip to weaken.

“Finally!” Axel cheered as he broke away and successfully landed on his feet this time.

“Abby, let’s work together again!” Sean suggested.

“Agreed! This clown is a pain in the ass to deal with, even by himself!” said Abby crossing her arms.

“Leaving me so soon?” Zack asked pretending to be hurt.

“Fine by me! Axel! Flare Blitz Lobo!” I called. The Infernape got down on all fours as the flame on his head ignited surrounding his entire body. He then launched himself at the canine causing it to yelp on impact. Axel also fell to the ground from the damage he sustained but only he got up.

“Shit! I’m sorry Sean!” Abby apologized as she recalled her Mightyena. Sounds like someone’s out of Pokémon. I’ll wait to kill her until after Sean’s done too.

“Don’t worry about it Sweetie. I’ll finish these two off! Kill that Golduck with Guillotine!” Sean commanded.

“Lloyd! Get out of there! NOW!” Zack screamed. The Duck Pokémon tried moving out of the way, but the giant crab caught him by the neck and started squeezing causing Lloyd screeched in pain.

“Axel!” I called.

“I know!” he responded.

I gathered as much draconic energy in my hand as my body would allow and blasted the Kingler with Dragon Pulse. That distracted Sebastian long enough for Axel to axe kick him in the head cracking his carapace above his eyes. Sebastian’s grip was now weak enough for Lloyd to free himself. The Golduck choked for air while rubbing his bruised neck. At least we wasn’t hurt too bad. The Aquas meanwhile were wide eyed with their mouths hanging open. I sighed. Must everyone have the same reaction to seeing my abilities for the first time?

“What the hell was that!?” Abby cried in shock.

“That’s probably why the Rockets refer to this guy as a demon.” Sean figured out. He looked over to his motionless Kingler and growled. “Looks like he’s done.” Sean tried to return Sebastian but it failed.

“What the hell? Why can’t I call him back?” Sean questioned with a scared look on his face. The look then turned to one of fury. “You bastard! You killed him!” he roared.

“It was either him or Lloyd and I had to save my comrade.” I said. “Now surrender! It’s two to one, you can’t possibly beat us!” I told him.

“You think!? I still have one Pokémon left and I’m willing to bet it’s strong enough to crush you!” boasted Sean. “Finish them off Samurott!” he called throwing a Pokéball. Emerging from it was a Pokémon I’d never seen before! It was a quadrupedal Pokémon with slick dark blue skin, a light blue belly, black claws, long white whiskers, a huge beige helmet with a long spike horn coming from it, and beige bands on its forearms that looked like sheathed swords. The Pokémon called Samurott gave us a fierce glare which made my body freeze in place, though not from the cold or even paralysis. It then gave a loud roar which caused me, Zack, Axel, and Lloyd to fall to our knees as if we were bowing to the monster!

“It looks like Samurott was able to subjugate you Neophytes easily! I think it’s you who should surrender!” taunted Sean. I slowly got to my feet and stared straight at my foes.

“No way! No matter how formidable your Pokémon may be, we won’t lose!” I declared.

“We over heard the two of you talking earlier. That Samurott is stolen, isn’t it?” Zack questioned. Sean smirked.

“It was stolen, but it belongs to me now. Right Samurott?” he asked the sea lion. Samurott hesitated for only a second before giving a reassuring growl.

“Looks like it still has some loyalty to its previous trainer.” Zack said to me.

“That just means we have to beat it without killing it. After that, who knows.” I said back.

“What are you two whispering about?” demanded Abby.

“Just strategizing on how to beat your boy-toy.” I said sarcastically.

“We’ll see about that! Avenge Sebastian with Retaliate!” Sean commanded. The Formidable Pokémon roared vengefully as it lunged at Axel and slammed him to the ground with a powerful punch.

“Lloyd! Help out with Cross Chop!” Zack called. Lloyd karate chopped Samurott with both hands forming an ‘X’ causing the sea lion to roar.

“Axel! Attack with Fury Swipes!” I commanded. The monkey hopped back to his feet and began rapidly slashing his opponent.

“Enough of this! Use Revenge Samurott!” ordered Sean. Samurott grabbed both of our Pokémon behind the head and smashed their heads together.

“I do not have a hard skull! You have a hard skull!” Axel yelled in retaliation to something Lloyd must have said.

“Now for maximum power! Samurott! Use Focus Energy and Swords Dance!” commanded Sean. The Formidable Pokémon roared as it was surrounded by a blue aura. It then placed its forelimbs on the bands on its arms and pulled out two large swords that it began swinging around rhythmically. I was awed at how badass that creature looked standing on its hind limbs with freaking swords in its hands! Samurott was generating so much power that the ice beneath its feet started to shatter and rise up before melting.

“Since when do Pokémon wield swords?” commented Zack voicing what I was thinking.

“They’re called seamitars and trust me, they’re stronger than any sword!” Sean bragged.

“Mach Punch it Axel!” I called. Axel turned into a golden blur as he sped towards his opponent and lobbed it with a punch.

“Is that all you’ve got? Show them the power of your Razor Shell!” the Aqua commanded. Samurott lifted one of its seamitars, which was now covered with water, and slashed Axel with it causing him to scream in pain.

“Use Psychic Lloyd!” Zack called. Lloyd concentrated on Samurott surrounding both Pokémon in a blue psychic aura that caused pain to the sea lion.

“Blast it with Water Pledge!” Sean commanded. The Formidable Pokémon stabbed the ground with its swords sending pillars of water at Lloyd.

“Slide right to avoid them!” called Zack.

“You should learn some new tricks! Keep the Golduck in place with Ice Beam!” Samurott did as told, firing a stream of frozen air at Lloyd’s feet which froze him up to his knees completely immobilizing him. “Now use X-Scissor!” The sea lion lifted his seamitars and slashed them across Lloyd’s chest in an ‘X’ shape.

“Back off you oversized otter!” yelled Axel running to the Duck Pokémon’s defense and using Close Combat.

“That damn monkey just won’t go down! Slash it!” ordered Sean spitefully. Samurott gave Axel a simple Slash with its seamitars, but it was enough for my Pokémon to fall. The only thing letting me know the Infernape still had some fight left in him was the fiery aura that now surrounded him thanks to Blaze.

“Axel! Free Lloyd!” I commanded. The Flame Pokémon leaped to his feet and fired Embers at Lloyd’s feet until he could break out of the ice on his own.

“That’s it! This time you won’t get up! Finish off that Infernape with Hydro Cannon!” roared Sean. The Formidable Pokémon firmly planted all four feet and launched a high powered torrent of water from its mouth.

“Take the attack with Aqua Jet!” Zack called quickly. Lloyd surrounded himself in water and bolted between Axel and Hydro Cannon taking the most of the attack. The force pushed the Golduck into Axel and pushed both into a wall. Both Pokémon were almost completely motionless.

“Zack! Why did you sacrifice Lloyd like that? I still have more Pokémon, you don’t!” I berated. He only smirked and briefly shifted his eyes upwards.

“Oh my head…” I heard Axel moan. I turned to the Pokémon to see him pushing an unconscious Lloyd off. “What was the point in you fainting instead of me?” I looked up to where Zack had indicated a second ago and saw a bunch of icicle stalagmites on the ceiling above Samurott.

“Is that your plan?” I inquired holding my hands upside down and waving all of my fingers.

“Ember and Dragon Pulse will finish this, don’t you agree?” he answered.

“They’re planning something Sean!” Abby warned.

“Don’t worry. The Infernape is on its last leg and I can easily clean up any other Pokémon he has just like I did with these two.” Sean said confidently.

“I wouldn’t be so sure! Axel! Ember the ceiling!” I commanded gathering my draconic energy again. Axel looked up and fired a barrage of small flames while I used only one Dragon Pulse. It was all I could muster in this cold environment after saving Lloyd earlier. Our attacks hit their mark sending ice and rock collapsing on top of Samurott. It roared in surprise and pain as it was bombarded with the rubble. When the dust cleared Samurott was unconscious under the debris.

“Return it now!” I ordered. “You’re beaten.” Sean screamed in frustration but did as told anyway knowing there was no way around it.

“Damn Neos bastard!” cursed Abby. “If we had the rare Pokémon in this cave we would have won for sure!”

“What kind of Pokémon was it you were looking for anyway?” inquired Zack. The Aquas only glared at him.

“Like we’d tell you! The last thing we need is for Team Neos to find it and use it against us!” Abby snapped back.

“Nothing says we can’t come back later. Hopefully we won’t be dealing with any more setbacks next time!” Sean said looking at me and Zack hatefully. “I need a new Pokémon to replace Sebastian anyway.” With that, the two Aquas tried to walk away. Axel and I looked at each other before grabbing the two by their shirt collars.

“And just where do you think you’re going?” I questioned in an upbeat tone.

“Let us go! You beat us, isn’t that enough?” Abby demanded.

“Look, whatever it is you want, take me and let Abby go! You only need one of us right?” Sean offered chivalrously.

“No, I’m afraid I need you both. Where is your base?” I asked nicely.

“Our base?” Sean repeated.

“Your base.” I said. Axel and I dragged our captives over to the water and dunked their heads in. The Aquas struggled for air so I nodded to Axel allowing them to come up.

“What base!?” Abby asked frantically gasping for air.

“For wanting to expand the world’s oceans you two can’t hold your breaths very long.” I said casually before dipping their heads back under. After a few more seconds we pulled them back up.

“You want the base we’re using on the Sevii Islands right?” guessed Sean.

“Yup.”

“We honestly don’t know! The Rockets have a main headquarters around here but we Aquas and the Galactics aren’t allowed to know where it is I swear!” said Abby.

“Then where do the Aquas stay?” I interrogated politely. Too bad for them they took too long to answer so it was back underwater with them.

“You’re enjoying this way too much.” Zack pointed out.

“Yeah, your right. Let’s just drown them and be done with it Axel.” I said boredly.

“Too bad. I was just getting in to that.” Axel lamented as we held the Aquas under until their struggles ended. I took Samurott’s Pokéball from Sean so that I could turn it in at the Pokémon Center as a stolen Pokémon. Hopefully they would know who to contact to get it returned to its rightful owner.

“Well Zack, shall we be off now? Lloyd’s fainted and Axel’s exhausted plus I I desperately need warmth so there really is no point in staying here.” I said.

“Sounds good to me. But what should we do about them?” he asked looking at the Aquas with their heads still in the water.

“Tell Master Raiden and get a cleanup crew in here?” I suggested not knowing that answer myself. The dead Kingler then caught my eye and it made me realize that I was pretty hungry. “That, however, is coming with me as my dinner.” I declared walking over to it.

“Dibs on the big claw!” Axel claimed
--------

People stared with WTF faces I dragged the dead Kingler through town by a rope I had stashed in my backpack. Not far behind me were Axel and Zack. Lloyd was still unconscious from the battle so he was resting in his Pokéball.

“Oi! You two! Stop right there!” called a charismatically masculine voice. Approaching us was a tall well-built man with chin length black hair and ocean green eyes wearing a brown suit and a black and white checkered scarf. Traveling with him was a large red and black boar with a flaming beard. Yet another Pokémon I had never seen before!

“Today has just been full of new discoveries, hasn’t it?” I said quietly.

“Detective Zachary Klink, International Police. This is my partner Franky.” he introduced holding out a police badge and motioning his Pokémon. “Do you have a permit for that thing?”

“That is so cool! My name is also Zack!” my teammate said excitedly. I couldn’t really blame him as this was the first time we had actually met someone with the same name as someone we actually knew.

“You too huh? You’re parents have really good taste in names.” complemented the detective. “Too bad I’m going to have to arrest you two for not showing us the proper papers.” he said pulling out two sets of handcuffs.

“Woah woah woah! Hold on a second! Why are we getting arrested? What kind of permit are you talking about? We haven’t done anything wrong!” I protested waving my hands out. Well, nothing wrong other than the crimes we’ve committed as Neos officers anyway.

“If you don’t know the permit I’m talking about then you two are obviously guilty of poaching.” said Zachary twirling the cuffs around his pointer fingers. “Now are we going to do this the easy way or the hard way?”

“I vote hard way. Let’s ditch the crab and run!” declared Axel.

“You mean the Kingler don’t you?” deduced Zack. “Yeah… we didn’t poach that.”

“Well clearly you don’t have a fishing license that makes it legal to catch Kingler.” retorted the detective.

“True, but it was already dead when we found it on the beach. I was hungry so I decided to bring it home for dinner.” I lied hoping it would sound at least partially plausible.

“Bullshit.” Zachary said flatly. Oh crap.

“It’s true!” I persisted.

“Idiot, I know when people are lying and you are clearly very nervous around me meaning you did something wrong.” Probably because I’m a member of an internationally wanted terrorist organization not to mention a mass murderer. But he was right about me being more nervous than I should be.

“You just caught us off guard, that’s all.” Zack said coolly. “If you had asked us more clearly for a fishing license and not threatened us with arrest, Brian here would have reacted much more calmly.”

“Then why does Franky claim the Infernape said to ‘ditch the crab and run’?” pointed out the detective.

“You understand what you’re Pokémon is telling you?” I said in awe. “Axel and I have the same relationship! Me and him are BFFs!”

“Damn straight! And I can honestly tell you, we have done no crimes. Tell your Trainer that one Franky.” my monkey defended proudly.

“I’ll tell you everything that we did today. It all started this afternoon, when Axel and I went down to the beach for a sparring match. Zack came with us because we had heard that Team Neos was on the island today. Safety in numbers ya know. Zack and his Golduck, Lloyd, got bored of watch us spar so we had a battle which I just barely won hence why Axel looks pretty beat up.” I explained. Since most of it was true, hopefully the detective can’t call me out on this nonsense.

“Then where did the Kingler come from?” he questioned. Crap, I knew I forgot a detail.

“We saw it on the beach while battling, but it wasn’t until Lloyd fainted did I realize the Kingler hadn’t moved at all and was laying in an awkward position. We went up to it, found out it was dead, and that’s when Brian realized he was hungry. Just like he said.” Zack said vouching for my earlier BS. “The fact that it didn’t smell and Wingull weren’t on it yet meant it was fresh so why waste such a rare opportunity for a free meal?”

“Something is still fishy about this.” mused Zachary looking us over.

“Would it help if I told you I’m a Pokémon Ranger?” Zack said pulling out his ID. “Poaching goes against everything I stand for.” Zachary took the card and looked it over.

“Zack Kaguya from Almia. You’re ID expired two months ago.” chastised the detective hand the ID back.

“Well ok, I was kicked out because of sexual harassment charges, but I still value the cause.” defended my teammate.

“That I believe.” Zachary looked as if he were thinking for a bit before sighing. “The only way to settle this is for one of you to battle me. If I win, I at least bring you in for questioning. If you win, then I come over your place for dinner and you let me eat some of that Kingler.” he bargained.

“Done! He’s all yours Brian.” Zack volunteered.

“Hang on! Let me at least get Axel to a Pokémon Center first! He’s still tired from our earlier battle.” I said.

“Go for it. It’ll be a boring fight if you aren’t at your best.” allowed Zachary.

“By the way, what species is Franky? I’ve never seen anything like him before.” I asked.

“Franky’s an Emboar, a species native to Unova.” the detective answered. “Now hurry up and heal your Infernape! I want a fight!” he demanded.
-----

Both Zachary stood there panting. We ended up tying in our Pokémon battle, so that meant the only way to settle things was for Zachary and I to have a fist fight. His fighting style was apparently self-taught like mine, but he had a lot more muscle and raw strength than I did. Lucky for me, I was a lot faster due to being lighter than him and my constant matches with an agile monkey.

“Looks like you win Brian.” conceded the detective. He picked up his jacket, scarf, gun, and badge which he took off for our fist fight and put them back on. “So where are you staying?” he inquired.

“Ya know, I just realized that our apartment is way too small for that Kingler and an extra guest.” Zack spoke up. I knew he was only saying that because it would be a horrible idea to bring a cop to our hideout.

“No problem, the place I’m staying should be big enough.” Zachary offered.

“Perfect! Let me grab our dinner and we can be on our way!” I said. “Although I guess we should go back to the Pokémon Center first.”

That night at dinner we got into discussions about why we were on Floe Island so Zack and I had to come up with a half-truth story that we wouldn’t get busted on. I said I was looking for fun and adventure which has always been true no matter what I was doing. Zack shameless admit he was looking for women and that there were two in particular who’s attention he desired.

“One is this really cute albino chick who said she only goes out with strong trainers and the other is a sexy blond who I’m almost positive is into S&M.” he explained. “Oh how I would love to take a beating from her.”

“Come on, I’m eating here!” protested Zachary throwing a chunk of shell at Kaguya. The detective then went on to explain that he was in the Sevii Island on the trail of a couple of Aquas who stole a Samurott from a regular competitor in Unova’s tournaments and Battle Subway. It explained why the Pokémon was so strong and well disciplined. It also made me wonder just how long Sean had it and what he did to it to make it obey him. I hadn’t had a chance to turn it in yet nor can I hand it over now because that would raise too many questions that I couldn’t answer without getting myself in trouble.

“Something wrong?” asked Zachary obviously sensing the situation.

“Nah, I just feel bad for that Samurott and its trainer. I’d lose my mind and probably go on a rampage if anything happened to Axel or any of my other Pokémon.” I said.

“Same here. When I catch those Aquas they’re getting an ass kicking before I arrest them.” he promised. Unfortunately I already knew he wasn’t getting his wish. The rest of our meal carried a much lighter tone and was actually pretty enjoyable. I figure as long as Zachary doesn’t find out I’m a criminal, we can be really good friends.

“Hey! That’s my piece!” Axel yelled as Franky took a chunk of meat the monkey had reached for. The Emboar slammed his fist to the table and obviously said something insulting to Axel because the Infernape stood up and growled at him. Franky responded by getting up as well, sticking his face in front of Axel and snorting at him. Axel’s flame got more intense as he leaned forward and growled at Franky again. The Emboar’s beard flame also flared as he leaned into Axel. Looks like they’ll be good friends too.

“Hey Brian.” Zachary said when we finished eating. Without waiting for me to respond he punched me hard in the shoulder. “We’re rivals now! From this day forward we must fight every time we meat! Got that?” he declared.

“Understood. So right now the record is 1-0 me, right?” I teased.

“Just who the hell do you think I am? I’ll make that score 1-1 million, you can be sure of that!” he proclaimed dramatically.

“Then I’ll just have to make sure you actually win one.” I retorted.
--------

That night before returning to our hotel, Zack and I put on our Neos uniforms and went to the Pokémon Center. There was still one more thing we had to do.

“Holy Shit! It’s Team Neos!” cried someone in panic. The people around us looked apprehensive, but Zack and I paid them no mind.

“What do you want?” asked the nurse at the counter nervously. I pulled out Samurott’s Pokéball and put it on the counter.

“This Pokémon was stolen by Team Aqua. I believe there is a detective of the International Police on this island who is searching for it. Tell him we defeated those Aquas and return this Pokémon safe and sound.” I said. Without another word, Zack and I left the Center.

“Done?” asked Axel who had been waiting outside with Lloyd. We didn’t want them to contact Zachary and be able to give accurate descriptions of us.

“Yeah, we’re done here.” I said. When we finally got back, we had to explain to Raiden what happened and where we had been all day. Apparently he had tried calling us but both of our phones were conveniently dead. Deciding it couldn’t be helped, he let us off with a slap on the wrist.
*************

For the record I will take requests on future cameos, but only if you meet the following requirements:
1. You MUST be a regular. I will not accept requests from random n00bs.
2. Do not make your requests here. If you want a cameo, contact me in chat.

Other than that, I hope you enjoyed the chapter! ^_^

“Just be ready for us to kick that Shiny Eevee around like a football!”

lol

Awesome chapter~ We got to see an nice battle and a good look at Team Neos' more brutal tactics. I feel for poor Chane though. It makes me wonder how long she can take this without something happening to her psyche. You also did a good job with the cameos and it didn't come off at all like pandering.

I do wish we could've seen the Emboar versus Infernape fight but that would've been overkill for one chapter. Perhaps you can write it out one day for kicks? Just sayin'

I do wish we could've seen the Emboar versus Infernape fight but that would've been overkill for one chapter. Perhaps you can write it out one day for kicks? Just sayin'

Actually, I'll let the battle write itself when Zacky and I finally have our RP battle. Does that work for you Zacky?