The Story of an Unlikely Hero: Pokemon Rejuvenation Edition

[Tringus]

With the release of Episode XV coming to Reborn soon, I figure I would make a new story until then. Yes, I still have stories to finish, but I'll also be making this story, too. Now, despite this game coming out after Reborn, I figured that I would make this a prequel to my adventure in Reborn. In one of the chapters, I assumed that I had no family, considering how we come into Reborn without any mention of family whatsoever. Since Rejuvenation is based off of Reborn, and it indeed has a parent, I figure I'd make it a prequel to explain my origins of what happened before I came to Reborn. Maybe once I develop this story more, I'll add some things to the Reborn story, to make them connect. And now, without further ado, I give you... My origin story and prequel before Reborn!

Prologue

It all started decades ago...

-Decades Ago...-

I start out in a small room, looking like a young, blonde girl. This is a first... I'm in another person's point of view! A servant calls me Marianette, and tells me that it's time to come out now. She says that my father wishes to see me, and so I begrudgingly obey. However, I take a look around the room, and see a Pangoro plushie, a Magmortar plushie, and a Zorua plushie sitting on a miniature altar which looks like its been used recently. I take a look at myself in the beautifully crafted glass mirror, but I can't see myself in the mirror. Does this mean that this girl is a vampire? The servant tells me that my father is in the room to the east, and so I leave the room.

I leave my room, and an earthquake occurs. I see Arceus statues all over the halls, which means that this place could be a cult's holy ground. I see servants blocking every room, which means I am forced to head east. What's strange is that I don't see the girl's mother. I wonder if something happened to her... As I go through the hall, more earthquakes occur, as well as what appears to sound like lightning. All of the servants say the same thing, and I start to question them, while they rudely reply with snarky remarks. I ask why I can't go outside, and they say that the outside is tainted with evil. Every servant has a snarky comment to my questions, which makes me hate them. I ask why I can't bring my Pokemon, and one of them says that I will no longer need them. I then head to the eastern corridor.

What's odd is that I can't even pause... It's just like the Mew glitch all over again... I head to the eastern corridor, and more earthquakes occur. I speak to the servant next to the Arceus statues in front of the door, and she tells me that my father awaits me in the room ahead. She moves, and I proceed.

I head into the room, and there are servants and Arceus statues all over the room. I speak to the servants, and one of them weeps about her sister. I head into the room ahead, and see the girl's father standing behind an altar with a servant on it. Marianette asks him what's going on, and where mommy is. He tells her that mommy is in a better place now, and says that she is now sleeping with Arceus, the Savior. That actually sounds wrong if you look at it from a different perspective... He tells Marianette that she must sleep with Arceus, too. Marianette is surprised, and exclaims that she just woke up. However, her father tells her that it is a different kind of sleep. More like murder or sacrifice, if you will. He then declares that he shall demonstrate the sleep for her before her very eyes. He asks the servant if she is ready, and she proudly tells her master that she has lived only to see this day, and that she was literally born ready to fulfill this task. Brainwashed, much? He accepts the appropriate answer, and begins the ritual. The room flashes and shakes as he performs the ritual.

"It is time, Arceus! Show her eternal greatness! Show her eternal life! Show her the true way to live!"

The servant disappears into nothingness as she vanishes from the face of the Earth. Marianette is horrified, and asks him what he is doing. She wonders where their servant went, because she disappeared in front of her. Her father replies that she is with Arceus now, and reveals that he brought her here to do the same. He tells her to step forward, but she refuses. She tries to escape, but three servants block the exit. She tells her daddy to let her go, and that she wants to go back to her room because she's scared. He says that he cannot let that happen, and tells the servants to bring her to the altar. Marianette begs for them to let go of her, and threatens to scream. However, her threats are empty, as she is then chained to the four poles. What is this, a kinky bondage situation now? That's just sick! She begs her father to stop this, and says that she doesn't want to go to sleep because she wants to go back to her room. She keeps begging, but it is no use. He apologizes, and promises that this is for her own good. He then begins the ritual once again. Marianette begs for somebody to help her at this point.

"Arceus! It is time!"

It fades to black, and Pokemon Rejuvenation begins...

Current Stats:

I don't have any Pokemon yet.

[Tringus]

Chapter I: My Tragic Prologue

Now MY story starts when it tells me that Pokemon Rejuvenation offers a variety of difficulty modes to choose from. It says that this stems from Casual, Normal (Reborn Style), and Intense mode. However, once it has been chosen, it cannot be undone. I choose to play it Reborn Style, and it shows me the introduction. A girl appears in black and red appears, and welcomes me to the Aevium region. She introduces herself as Amaria, and says that she would like to take this opportunity to welcome me to the Aevium Region. However, before we proceed with the registration, she says that she would ask if I'll lend me her ear some of Aevium's history.

"The Aevium region used to be one huge region, but long ago it was severed by unknown forces. Some believe that it was the work of legendary Pokemon. Others believe that natural causes destroyed the region."

However, she ends the story, and we proceed with the registration process. First things first, she reveals that she is a Scout for the Aevium League. She looks for trainers who show great skill, and promise. She says that since my mother is a well-known battler, she decided to hand-me-down and invitation to the league. We then begin registration, but asks me if I'm in need of assistance. I take a look at the controls, and continue. She sends out a Malamar, and says that the world is filled with mystical creatures known as Pokemon. She explains that even though the region is in pieces, Pokemon from all over live on this region. She says that Pokemon are essential for my journey ahead. We finally get on with my trainer card, as she asks me if I'm a boy or a girl. I'm a guy, and she gives me two appearances to choose from. Since this is a direct prequel story, I choose the one on the left. I mean, it looks almost exactly like Vero, does it not? She asks for my name, which my name is Trevo. She congratulates me, because now I'm registered in the Aevium League! She tells me that my boat should be docking at Oceana Pier at any moment now, and says that she'll meet me in the lobby of Gearen Laboratory for further assistance. She wishes me good luck, and says that she can't wait to see what I'm truly capable of.

I get off the computer, and it says that my registration is complete. I'm one step of the way there to becoming a Trainer! I take a look around me, and I see people screwing up on their emails, bored to death, and excited. I step outside of the computer room, and a sailor tells me that the ship will be arriving soon, and that I should go back to my room now. I talk to the sailor at the exit, and he says that we should be arriving at Oceana Pier in about 30 minutes. I talk to the sailor in front of the stairs, and he says that upstairs is the Captain's quarters, but he isn't allowing any visitors as of yet. I take a look at the other rooms, and a woman is happy to return home after being in Unova for a month, with her daughter waiting for her at Oceana Pier. I look outside, and see people excited and not excited about Fried Krabby. I take a look in another room, and a girl is hopping on the bed, saying that her parents aren't with her, so she can do whatever she wants. Way to make use of your time... I see that some rooms are off limits, while the storage room is off limits, too because it's too dangerous for kids to go into. The sailor rudely says that he doesn't care how old I think I am, and that I'm still just a kid.

I head outside, and go ahead and talk to the people around me. They give me important facts, such as information about Pokemon not obeying, and that I can choose any starter I want, including Kalos starters! I then talk to a mysterious girl who asks me if I need anything from her. She says that she would appreciate it if I would go on with my business. However, she then gives me a warning, telling me not to wander too far off. I wonder what that's about?

I head back to my room, and see my pink-haired mother. She asks me if the registration process is already complete, and says that when she first became a trainer, that process lasted at least an hour. She also asks me if it's nice to have a whole new beginning in life. She says that it's incredible that moving your location can change everything. She knows that I didn't want to leave Unova, but she promises that she will make it up to me one day. Well, I did and didn't want to leave Unova. I didn't want to leave my friends, but I wanted to leave my enemies behind. It's a twisted circle of life. She says that since we have a few minutes before the Grand Feast, I should go speak to the captain. She says that he's an old friend of my grandpa, and he also used to be an extremely powerful trainer in his day. She says that maybe he can teach me a few things, and tells me not to worry about her because she'll be here when I get back.

I head upstairs to the captain's quarters, which isn't blocked anymore. I meet the captain, and he recognizes me as Nancy's child because I have her eyes. Well, my eyes are more darker... I'm just wearing green color contacts. He introduces himself as Augustus Briney, and he is the captain of this ship. Is he by any chance related to Mr. Briney from Hoenn? He tells me that my mother's father was one of his good friends, and he welcomes us both to the Aevium region. He says that the Aevium region is home to many powerful trainers, and it does things a bit differently than other regions. He tells me that there are 18 gym leaders, and instead of an Elite 4, there's an Elite 8! He also tells me that Pokemon also tend to disobey their trainers depending on how many badges their trainers have. He sees that we have run out of time, and says that the Grand Feast is about to begin! He says that he has to go out there and give his spe-

Just then, an explosion occurs, and Augustus freaks out, and wonders what the huge explosion was. A man wearing black and red appears, and reports that the target is sighted, and initiates capture. Augustus stops him right there, and says that he's never seen him aboard this ship. He demands who he is, and the man says that there's no time for chatter. He reports that the target is sighted, and to initiate the attack. He apologizes to Augustus, and says that his time here is done. He leaves, and the whole room gets destroyed. Augustus is trapped in his seat, and asks me if I'm alright, and if I'm not harmed. He sees that he is stuck there, and tells me to go find my mother and get off this wretched ship. He tells me not to worry about him, and says that he's been in tougher situations. He tells me to go, and so I do. When I get out of the room, something happens in there, and Augustus moans in pain. I try to go back in there to see if he's alright, but something's blocking the door. I have no choice but to continue.

When I get downstairs, a hole is made so that I can no longer return to Augustus's room. I see people caught by tentacles, and I am horrified. What is WRONG with these terrorists? ANOTHER kinky situation? No thanks. I talk to the boy face flat on the ground, and he's begging his mommy to help him before he gets pulled into the depths below... I head outside, and I find more people trapped. However, I see three Deoxys', only to see that they don't seem like Deoxys' at all, but more... twisted versions of it. I also see black and red boats, which means that this is definitely a terrorist attack. When I go inside, I see that the Deoxys clones are staring at me now... Yeah, I'm going back inside. I head to the computer room, only to see another boy get pulled into the depths below. I look around, and the young man with his girlfriend is missing his girlfriend. I head inside the room, and the sailor tells me to protect the guests at all costs. I head to the sailor blocking the storage room, and he is panicking so badly, he's a hypocrite when he tells ME not to panic. He tells me to go back to my room, but I just head outside. The girl who gave me the warning is nowhere to bee seen, and there are more Deoxys clones.

I do what everybody has been telling me to do, and I head back to my room, only to see my mother missing. I freak out, and leave the room, only to hear my mother go into the storage room. The sailor warns them not to go, and says that it isn't safe. Mother says that she doesn't have time for his blabbering, and slaps him aside, making the sailor whine. However, when I go over there, the sailor is nowhere to be seen. I head down to the storage room, and see a few survivors. They say that they're hiding down here until help arrives. I talk to the other two trainers, and a tentacle grabs Colin, while the other trainer screams in horror. The tentacle pulls Colin down below, and the other trainer is freaking out, saying that we're all going to die. The girl says that she's too young to die, and I decide to end all of this by going into the next room.

When I go into the next room, I see water spewing everywhere, as the ship is starting to sink. I see my mother with her Sylveon fighting off a strange woman with a Deoxys clone. She furiously asks the strange woman what she's doing to the ship, and says that she's going to shipwreck it. The woman callously agrees, and says that the ship is already a wreck. She tells Mother that there isn't any hope for this ship anyways. She then asks Mother to stop being so stubborn and just come with her, and says that she doesn't plan on going to Madame X without her. She also says that she doesn't see any reason why she should struggle. Mother defends herself, and says that she's not going anywhere with her. She demands where her child is, as she said that she brought me here. The woman reveals that was a lie just to get her to follow her, but sees that she wasn't completely lying, as she sees me behind Mother. My mother turns around, and sees me. The woman orders Dexoy to take out Sylveon, and it does without a fight. Mother sees what's going on, and returns Sylveon to its Pokeball. She says that she has one more left, but she needs it to get off the boat with me. The woman says that she's right, and that she doooooes need that Pokemon to get off this boat. She says that she's offering a free, luxurious ride off the Xen ship. She promises that she'll get first class, aka the storage closet. Mother tells me that we should run and get off this ship, and the woman traps her with Dexoy! Those Dexoy must be the ones that are capturing those innocent people! She tells her not to think that she's getting away, and tells me that the Team Xen storage closet has room for two. She also says that it's ready for a mother-child party...

*Trevo used Run Away!*

The woman sees that they have a runner, and starts Operation: Get My Butt Back Here. She unleashes Dexoy at me, and I keep running. I see the two survivors captured, and I escape. I head outside from the west exit, and see three Dexoys. They all come after me, and the woman appears from behind me, smugly saying that I'm surrounded. She then asks me to be a good little kid, and follow her. However, a cry is heard, and she wonders what it is. Just then, a Talonflame comes to my rescue, and we fly away from the wretched ship.

"You've escaped me now, child. However, next time we meet... don't expect to be so lucky."

We reach Oceana Pier, and somebody asks Talonflame if it found anymore survivors. Just then a woman arrives, and sees me. She asks Talonflame if I'm a survivor, and it replies with a cry of yes. She sees that I am a survivor from the S.S. Oceana, and introduces herself as Tesla. She tells me that the Talonflame that rescued me is her Talonflame. She tells me that she was flying over the ship when she saw smaller Team Xen ships catching up behind it. She tells me that Team Xen is a mysterious organization that's been harassing Aevium for years. She ends her information about Team Xen, and asks if I'm hurt. She asks me if I was alone on that ship, and I explain what happened. She is shocked as I told her that I was coming here with my mother, and she was taken by Team Xen. She sees that this is a sticky situation, and says that after she's done looking for survivors, she'll notify the authorities on what happened. She tells me that I should probably head up north to Gearen City, and says that I'll need a Pokemon if I want to make it around this region. She says that she should get going, and hops on Talonflame. She wishes me good luck, and hopes that things work out with my mother. She also asks me my name before I go, and I tell her. She promises that we'll meet again, and she flies off.

I explore Oceana Pier, and see people waiting for the S.S. Oceana. Too bad it's never going to come. Everybody's captured or dead, and there will be no shipments coming in. I see signs all over the place, and I head to the gate. I get warned that Gearen City is not a place for weak trainers. I enter Gearan City, and see that I only have one path to go: The building that is surrounded by toxic water.

I enter Gearen Laboratory, and I see Amaria waiting for me. She asks me what took so long to get here, and just as I'm about to explain what happened, she tells me not to worry about it, saying that a lot of people are usually late to these things because they're nervous. That's not the case at all... The ship was attacked, and my own mother was kidnapped by terrorists! She could be tortured, or even dead by now! Do you have ANY idea what's going on?! She tells me to meet her up ahead so that we can get things started. I follow her to the front desk, and she tells the lady that she's here to distribute a starter to a newbie. The door opens, and she tells me that the main lab is on the second floor. I follow Amaria, but just when I'm about to enter the door, I bump into a girl, and she apologizes. I move out of her way, and she leaves.

Just what was that about?

I head to the second floor, and I follow Amaria, who reports to Jenner that she finally has a new trainer here for me. He turns around, and introduces himself as Professor Jenner, the head scientist of this establishment. Amaria says that we got that, and says that he knows how eager trainers are to finally get their starter Pokemon, and tells him not to make me wait any longer. Professor Jenner says that she's right, and says that he doesn't think that kids are interested in stuff he does anyways. Hmm... He could be hiding something by saying that... I'll have to keep a close eye on him. He asks me if I want a starter Pokemon, and tells me to just take the door I see behind him where they keep Pokemon for their trainers. He unfortunately says that I can only be able to take one Pokemon out of all the Pokemon that are currently inside. Therefore, I must choose carefully. Amaria tells me that she'll be waiting for me out here. I take a look at the bookshelf next to Professor Jenner because it looks suspicious. However, since there's nothing I can do about it, I head inside the door.

I head inside the room, and the lady says that each type of Pokemon are put into sections, so I shouldn't have a problem finding anything. Unfortunately, starters from Kalos are unavailable, but they have plenty to choose from. I was lied to on that ship! Oh well, I already know what I'm choosing. I take one look around.

I choose... Charmander!

After many soft-resets, I receive a Shiny Charmander, and I name him Charles. I head outside, and Professor Jenner says that Charmander is an excellent choice, and he's sure that me and my Pokemon will do great things for the world. Amaria tells Professor Jenner that he says some of the weirdest things sometimes. She turns to me, and says that I may have a Pokemon, but that doesn't mean jack in the real world. She says that if I want to be the best, then I'll have to show the world what I got. Therefore, she challenges me to a battle. However, she says that she'll use a Pokemon that she recently picked up, so it's totally fair. With that said, let the battle commence!

Time to put my skills to the test!

Scout Amaria sends out Fennekin, while I send out Charles. How come SHE gets a Kalos starter, when I have to wait?! Oh wait, I already have a starter. Fennekin just keeps using Tail Whip while Charles easily knocks it out with a barrage of Scratches. With Fennekin defeated, I win the battle!

Amaria says that I'm totally good, and also tells me that I'm not too shabby, and that I have real potential. Professor Jenner remarks that we had a marvelous battle, and tells Amaria that she always knows how to give a good battle. She tells him that she tries to be the best in every situation, and that is the one, and only way she can improve her skills. Professor Jenner agrees, and Amaria gives me some Pokeballs for battling against her. She says that should get me started for the first few rounds here in the city. However, she says that she should get going because she has other things she has to attend to. She thanks Professor Jenner, and tells him that she'll see him very soon. She turns to me, and wishes me good luck with my journey. She says that if I make it to the top, I can be sure that I'll see her again.

She leaves, and just then, Professor Jenner speaks up, asking me for a favor. He says that he has a daughter named Melia, who's a bright young girl with a lot of spirit. He says that she has become such a good trainer that she's in the process of becoming a Gym Leader. He asks me if I could- Just then, a guy in black comes in the room, and reports to him that he finished his assignment dealing with Amethyst Cave. Professor Jenner is pleased, and asks Ren for the results. However, Ren doesn't have much results. He says to get further in the cave, you need Surf, and obviously Ren is still a rookie, and he doesn't have access to Surf yet. Professor Jenner says that's a shame, and introduces Ren to me. Ren introduces himself, and Professor Jenner tells me that Ren is his assistant who helps him studies dealing with Pokemon habitat and characteristics. Ren says that if that's all, he has to get going because he promised some friends he'd hang with them after he reported to him. Professor Jenner dismisses him, and Ren thanks him. Ren leaves, and Professor Jenner goes back to the favor he wanted to ask me. He asks me if I can check on his daughter, and tells me that she's at Goldenwood Forest on an assignment he gave her. He tells me that I can get there by taking the train from the North Railnet, which is located exactly north of this lab. He thanks me, and rewards me with the Running Shoes, the Pokedex, and the CyberNav, which will surely get me started on my journey. He wishes me good luck, and I leave.

Or so I thought...

When I head downstairs, I see Ren blocking the exit. He tells me that he overheard me talking with Professor Jenner just a few minutes ago, and says that he wanted to tell me that Melia isn't actually at Goldenwood Forest. Instead, she actually went to a place called Gearen Sewers, which is obviously the sewers that reside in Gearen. He asks me if I'm glad he gave me the nice tip, but says that it doesn't come free. Instead, it costs one battle, which then begins.

You want to battle me? It's your loss, Ren. Let's go!

Pokemon Trainer Ren sends out Froakie, while I send out Charles. Charles unleashes a barrage of Growls and Pounds, while Charles keeps Scratching Froakie, even with critical hits. With Froakie defeated, I win the battle!

Ren is impressed, but shrugs it off, saying that it's beginner's luck. He tells me not to expect to win next time, and says that he would like to bring me to the sewers himself, but he thinks it would be better if I explored the city on my own. He says goodbye and leaves, while I follow his exit, and start my journey.

It's time to begin my adventure!

Current Stats:

So far, Charles is the only member in my team. However, he gained two levels after defeating Amaria's Fennekin and Ren's Froakie. Heck, he nearly leveled up to level 8!

Charmander

Name: Charles (Time to go to the Name Rater who conveniently lives in the city!)

Level: 7

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember

[Tringus]

Chapter II: The Beginning Of An Epic Adventure, The Murky Gearen Sewers Below, And Mr. Bigglesworth's Origin Story!

I leave Gearen Laboratory, and explore the city a bit. I decide to explore the west side of the city, and so I head left. I battle some trainers, and one even wants to have a jam session. Umm... no... Fortunately, the Name Rater lives right next to the first trainer I battled, so I formally name Charmander Charles. I explore some more, and battle more trainers. I see the Help Center, but that's for another time. Eventually, I see a guy in front of a building, and bother him until he gives me more Pokeballs. I see another guy blocking a building, and I battle him to get inside. It leads me into a shop where I learn about Reverse Candy, the complete opposite of Rare Candy. If Pokemon grow too powerful to obey, I can use some of these to get them back into submission. I find some apartments, and I battle trainers and get items.

I battle some more trainers, and a girl who calls me ghetto trash. It's funny, because she looks like ghetto trash, and her name is Bianca. I can guess what happened to Bianca after Pokemon Black 2.... She says me and her should talk sometime. Okay, no. I'm out of here. I head to the Violet Apartments, and I learn that Aevium is divided into three sections from when it shattered.

Eventually, I get bored of battling trainers, so I decide to catch some Pokemon. Much to my surprise, I manage to find a Noibat at night near a fancy hotel. I manage to catch it, and name it Noice. I catch a few other Pokemon, such as Purrloin, Paras, and even Murkrow, which I name Don Krow. I catch some more Pokemon, and train some a little bit. I then head past the Violet Apartments, and find a house.

Before I can walk up to the door, I hear somebody yelling at a girl named Veronica to put down the music, which is a familiar tune... Veronica disrespects her by calling her an extremely disrespectful word, and even asks her if she knows who this is. Veronica tells her that it's Roxie's newest hit song, "Dogars!", and that she's not putting it down. I can assume that the other woman must be Veronica's mother, because she says that, and smacks Veronica! Veronica realizes what's happening, and tells her mother to chill. She apologizes, but the beat down continues. She gets kicked out of the house, and gets locked out. Her mother tells her not to come back until she's learned some manners, and Veronica is annoyed. She notices me, and apologizes. She asks me if I heard all of that nonsense in the back, and I did. She tells me not to worry because this is a common thing, and that she gets locked out at least once a day. She introduces herself as Venam, contrary to what her mother calls her. She says that she prefers Venam, and she pronounces it to me as Venum. She also tells me that she's the gym leader of this city, which is awesome. However, she doesn't have time to have a gym battle with me right now because she's going to go hang out with her friends first. She says that I seem pretty cool, and invites me to tag along with her. She tells me that we're meeting at the gray building right next to her house here. But EVERY building is gray! She gets specific, and says that it's the one with the purple guitar on it. That's better! She says that I literally cannot miss it. Okay, I get it! She leaves, and I go to the door. Her mother thinks that it's Veronica at the door, and tells me to go away, saying that she doesn't want to let Veronica inside yet. I then follow Venam to the building.

When I head inside the building, Ren notices me, and sees that I am the one that Venam was talking about. He's happy about that, and sees that I was able to find this place without his help. He tells me that Melia didn't go to Goldenwood Forest yet because she came here first for some of her research. We head down to the sewers, and Ren welcomes me to the Gearen Sewers. He tells me that this is just a little place that Venam runs in her spare time, and everyone here respects and looks up to her. He tells me not to expect to waltz up in here and act like i own the place because people will take me down. He says that from here on out, we should team up because there are a lot of tough trainers down here. I take Ren up on the offer, and we walk from there. We battle the trainers in our path, and pass by a place that sells Chinese food. We continue, and find more trainers. However, we also find a trainer who tells us that most people don't know of these sewers anymore because it was abandoned long ago. The only people who know are kids who hang out here and cause mischief. He, however, hides illegal items down here.

Eventually, we make it to the end and find Venam, along with another girl. The girl is amazed at this discovery, and we see two Trubbish and a shiny Garbodor. She sees that the trash bags that were thrown down here mutated into Pokemon. She looks at her syllabus, and sees that the two smaller trash bags are Trubbish, while the bigger trash bag is Garbodor. She sees me and Ren, and wonders who I am. Venam introduces me to her, and says that I'm a new trainer in Aevium. Ren says that he decided he'd let me tag along with him on this joyous adventure, but really, he needed a partner to get through the sewers. This must be Melia, because she says that Ren is as charming as ever. She says we should check it out, and says that the trash bags she left here the other day turned into Pokemon. She tells us that she was curious to see if the bacteria of Grimer in this sewer would mutate these trash bags somehow. Sure enough, she was right. Ren gets bored of the scientific jabber, and asks her if she was supposed to be at Goldenwood at the moment. Melia says that she was, but this was way more important. She's sure that her father won't mind at all because this is groundbreaking. I'm sure he WILL mind... There's just something odd about him... Venam doesn't get any of this, but says that as long as it makes Poison-type Pokemon, then she's cool with it. She tries catching one of the Trubbish, but Garbodor gets angry. Venam wonders if it was something she said, and Ren scolds her for it. Venam turns to Ren, and asks him how it's her fault, but just as she tries defending herself, Garbodor creeps up to Melia and kidnaps her! Melia says that it escalated quickly, and Venam is shocked. Ren talks to me, and says that this isn't good. He tells me that we're gonna have to fight that thing, and set Melia free. I agree, and we confront the trash bags. Garbodor roars, and Ren silences it. Venam compliments Ren's pun, and our battle with Garbodor begins.

Give back Melia, you scraps of filth!

The Garbodor Garbage Crew attacks, as Garbodor sends his two Trubbish minions after us. Ren sends out Murkrow, while I send out Charles. We knock out the Trubbishes with Ember and Pursuit. The big shiny Garbodor comes out, and Murkrow goes down from when it was poisoned. I send out Noice, and Ren sends out Froakie. We gang up on Garbodor, and attack with Gust and Quick Attack. Eventually, Garbodor goes down, and we win the battle!

After the battle, Charles evolves into... Charmeleon! Ren declares that it is over, and demands for Melia to be released. Melia apologizes to Ren, and says that she doesn't need his help. She sends out a shiny Zorua, who uses Dark Pulse on Garbodor. While Garbodor and his Trubbish minions are attacking Zorua, Venam takes the opportunity to catch the Trubbish next to her, and says that we already know why. Ren sees that any time is Pokeball time. Melia tells Garbodor and Trubbish to leave, but something's odd about that Trubbish... I feel that something either great or terrible will happen to that Trubbish, anytime, and anywhere... They leave, and Melia says that was more annoying than anything. She says that if she's going to become a gym leader soon, then she's going to have to fend for herself. She returns Zorua to its Pokeball, and Venam agrees with Melia. She says that since we're all done here, she's gonna go back home and continue her jam session. She leaves with a phrase, which Ren questions, saying that she has a funny way in which she addresses her friends. Melia tells us not to mind Venam because she only means well. She says that she should get going as well, and tells me that if I'm not busy doing anything, if I would like to go to Goldenwood with her. Umm... Are you asking me on a date? She says that going there by herself is so boring, and she needs someone to record some data with her. She says that if I'm interested, I should meet her there. She leaves, and Ren says that we should get going, too. We leave Gearen Sewers, and Ren tells me that he has some business to take care of out in Route 2. He tells me that the North Train Station is on the very north-western part of town. He says that if I get lost, I should just walk towards the park, and then head north from there. He tells me to take the train to Goldenwood Forest, and that Melia will meet me there. He leaves, and I head down to the sewers to catch more Pokemon.

After I catch more Pokemon, I head to the Aqua Apartments, and talk to a guy named Maurice on the top floor. He mumbles that they got shipments from the last night, but they'll have to gt the rest of the shipment. He realizes I'm there, and wonders what I'm doing there. He realizes that I came at the most opportune moment, and tells me that he's supposed to be buying some stuff from this gal. He says that she's supposed to meet him on the most southern side of town, but he's got work cut out for him here. He asks me to go get the shipment for him, and I oblige without saying anything. He tells me that she hangs out by poisonous water in the southernmost part of town. He tells me to hurry, and I go.

I head down to the southeastern side of town, and I see a girl near a truck. She sees that I'm there to pick up the stuff for Maurice, and she says that he is lazy. She gives me the Mystery Good, and tells me to tell Maurice to stop being so lazy. She disappears, and I head back to Maurice. He gives me a Nugget, and tells me to come back later in case he has more stuff for me. I sell the Nugget for more Pokeballs, and I head out to Goldenwood Forest.

Time to have some fun!

Current Stats:

Charles has officially been renamed, AND evolved into a Charmeleon! I caught quite a bit of Pokemon, but some made it onto the list. Yes, I still need to catch Murkrow, but that name is a placeholder for when I do catch it. I named Noibat Noice in honor of a phrase that Shofu says. I would name it Shofu, but I decided to do that for a Darmanitan. I've also decided to use the 3D models for the Pokemon instead of the sprites. This is because of 6th Generation Pokemon such as Noibat.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 16

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidoran

Name: Venom

Level: 15

Moves: Poison Sting, Peck, Focus Energy, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 15

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Gust

Woobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 12

Moves: Confusion, Odor Sleuth, Gust, Assurance

[Tringus]

Chapter III: The Wonderful Helpful Help Center!

Unlike what I was going to do, I actually go to the Help Center instead. Gotta get the rewards, you know. I start from the top, and help a girl find her Pokemon. The girl and her Turtwig were playing by the gym until they were separated by this thug. Turtwig ran one way, and she ran the other. She's been looking all over the city ever since. She says that he might be in a grassy area, but wonders if the thug caught him. He likes to hang out in alleyways, so that's where I look. Sure enough, I find Turtwig cornered by the thug near the Gearen Laboratory. The thug notices me, and I battle him for Turtwig. I beat the thug, and he flees. The Turtwig thanks me, and heads to the Pokemon Center. The girl thanks me, and I head back to the Help Center for the reward.

The next request is to teach a mother's son a lesson for skipping school. I find him at the Chrisola Hotel down in the battle room, and he rufeses to go to school. Time for Lesson 101: Never mess with me. I battle him, and beat him down with Swoop. He even claims that he was the strongest trainer in Gearen. This kid is obviously lying. He realizes he has so much to learn, and promises to go to school, just to beat me one day. He leaves, and I go back to the Help Center to get my reward.

The next request is to deliver a love letter to a person somebody likes, but this guy doesn't have the balls to ask her out. I meet him at the park right in front, and he gives me the love letter. He says that Cameron usually hangs out on the other side of the city. Another guy? Well, not my problem. I find Cameron, and give him the love letter. No surprise, he says yes, and wants me to tell him that he'll meet him later. I head back to the Help Center to get my reward.

The next request is to deliver something because the person is too busy with work. I head to the Pokemart, and I meet this weird guy who gives me a weird letter. He tells me that there are thieves running amok in the city, and tells me to deliver this to a police officer by the lab. I find the police officer by the lab, and it seems that the scientist wants them to stop patrolling around there, which is super shady. The officer goes to investigate further, and he gives me a Reverse Candy, which is popular with kids. He leaves, and I head back to the Pokemart, telling the scientist that the officer is even more suspicious. He panics, and says that he has to warn his colleagues. He retreats, and I head back to the Help Center to get my reward. I get some money, and ANOTHER Nugget. I'm gonna be rich if this keeps up... Rich in balls! Pokeballs, to be specific!

The next request is take out a Snubbull that attacked somebody. Snubbull is around Oceana Pier, and I find it there. Turns out that it's a wild Snubbull, because I managed to catch it! Since Snubbull is now contained, I head to the Help Center to collect my reward.

The last request for Level 1 is to battle somebody to see how good she is. It tells me to meet them at the battle room in Chrisola Hotel, and I head there. I meet the girl who wants to battle, and she thanks me. She battles me, and she is not playing around.

Let's go!

Hardcore Trainer Adrian sends out Helioptile, while I send out Venom, who knocks out Helioptile with a few Double Kicks. Adrian sends out Vivillon, while I send out Swoop, who nearly goes down, but knocks Vivillon with a few Gusts. Adrian sends out Vulpix, while I send out Noice. Unfortunately while I heal Swoop, Noice gets knocked out by Vulpix's Hex from when Noice was burned. Fortunately, Swoop comes out and confuses Vulpix with Confusion. While Vulpix hurts itself, Swoop knocks it out with Confusion, while learning Heart Stamp. Adrian sends out Eevee, but unfortunately knocks out Swoobat from Eevee's Shadow Ball. I send out Venom, who nearly knocks Eevee down, but gets knocked out by Eevee's attacks. I send out Charles, who destroys it with Dragon Rage. Adrian sends out Poochyena, who also gets destroyed from Dragon Rage. Adrian sends out Hawlucha, who confuses Charles with Swagger, but also gets knocked out by Dragon Rage. With all six of Adrian's Pokemon defeated, (Gosh, she's like a gym leader!), I win the battle!

With Venom at level 16, he evolves into... Nidorino! Adrian says that I'm really strong, and thanks me for battling with her. She tells me that she left the reward back at the Help Center, so I head there without further delay. However, she also says that I'm really a hotshot trainer, and says that maybe we can battle again someday. I head to the Help Center, and I get some money and a Litleo for completing every request! I name Litleo Pyro. With all of the requests done, I leave.

Okay, NOW it's time to have some fun!

Current Stats:

Venom has evolved into Nidorino, and more Pokemon were caught. I still have yet to catch a Murkrow, but that's fine. Also, Dragon Rage is an AWESOME move early game. Pretty much knocks out opponents in two hits. Some Pokemon learned new moves, such as Swoop learning Heart Stamp.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 18

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 17

Moves: Poison Sting, Peck, Focus Energy, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 15

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Gust

Woobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 15

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Gust, Assurance

[Tringus]

Chapter IV: The Date With Melia, And The Goldenwood Forest Conspiracy!

After I train my Pokemon, I head to the North Railnet next to the Help Center. However, I find Tesla there, and she wonders if I'm okay. She asks me about my mother, and tells me that as soon as she and Talonflame were flying back to the ship, it was already too late. However, she tells me not to lose hope, and gives me Potions as a gift to help me in these trying times. Now my Pokemon will never die! She leaves, and I talk to the old man. He tells me that he and his granddaughter were having a picnic in Goldenwood Forest, but then she disappeared. He begs me to go look for her, and so I pay my ticket, hop on the train, and head to Goldenwood Forest.

When I make it to Goldenwood Forest, I take a look around, and talk to people. I manage to get an Old Rod from a fisherman, and see a Nurse Joy. I also battle some trainers, find a shrine, with a little girl on a tree! In a cutesy wutesy voice, she asks me to help her get down from the tree. I shake the tree, and she says that I didn't have to be so rough. She thanks me, and says that she was getting apples, which was why she disappeared. She realizes that her grandpa is at the station waiting for her, and so she leaves. I catch a few Pokemon, and head back to the Pokemon Center to put them in the PC.

However, when I get back to the North Railnet, the old man thanks me, and gives me a Smoke Ball. I head back to Goldenwood Forest, battle the rest of the trainers, and find a Whismur. I feed the Whismur a Gourmet Treat, and catch it. I then head inside the cave.

When I head inside the cave, I follow the path, and find Melia at a dead end, examining the wall. She is puzzled, because she thought that Professor Jenner told her that there were inscriptions here. She turns to me, and sees me. She thanks me for meeting her here, and says that she came here because her father told her that there were inscriptions on the wall in this cave. However, looking at the wall here... there's not really any proof that was once the case. Looking at the wall, it is totally unscathed. She gets annoyed, because she's starting to think that he lied to her. Okay, NOW I'm getting suspicious about Professor Jenner. If he lied to her, then this is obviously a trap. Something's going on here...

Melia gets back on topic, and tells me that she meant to ask me something in the sewers back then. If it's about a date, it'll have to wait, because now I'm suspicious about Professor Jenner. However, everything pertaining to the Garbodor sorta made her mind pretty fuzzy. She asks me if I know what shiny Pokemon are, and says that they're Pokemon that have a difference in their coloring. She says that people believe that shiny Pokemon are just an aesthetic thing. She, however, believes that they have more potential. She believes that their coloring is a symptom of their secret, destructive, inner-most power. She explains that evidence of this points towards the very same Garbodor me and Ren fought in the sewers. She says that shiny Pokemon seem to be attracted to her in some way, too. She wonders if her and shiny Pokemon have some sort of connection. She apologizes for rambling about nothing, and asks me if I know about her being a gym leader soon. She says that she needs more practice, and wants to spar with me. She promises that she won't hold back, and the battle begins.

No holding back! Time to show you what I can do!

Pre-Leader Melia sends out her Zorua, Fortitude, while I send out Noice. Noice attacks with Gust, while Fortitude keeps attacking. Noice confuses Fortitude with Supersonic, making Fortitude repeatedly hurt itself. However, when Fortitude's health gets low, Melia uses a few Potions. Unfortunately, Fortitude knocks out Noice with Feint Attack after snapping out of confusion, so I send out Venom, who knocks out Fortitude with Double Kick. Melia sends out Diligence, her Larvitar, who Venom beats down with Double Kick. Unfortunately, Diligence doesn't get knocked out, and uses Dig. I send out Swoop, but Swoop still gets hit because the cave prevents Pokemon from flying. Swoop knocks Diligence out with Confusion, and Melia sends out Faith, her Yanma. I send out Charles, who burns Faith down by using Ember. Melia sends out Happiness, her Togepi, and Charles knocks it out with a few Embers. With Melia's shiny Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Melia claims that I'm a natural, and says that I truly am a great trainer. She says that it's getting kind of late, and asks me if we can walk back to the train station together. Just as we step off of the platform, an explosion occurs, and rocks fall from the ceiling. Melia jumps, and says that we have to go. She leaves, while I follow.

When I step outside, I see two Team Xen grunts grabbing ahold of Melia! She demands them to let go of her, and the grunts try getting her to come with them. One of them tells her that it's better if she stops resisting and let them apprehend her. Melia gets angry, and repeats herself while screaming, and in a rage, she smacks the grunt so hard, he flies over the mountain! The other guy is shocked, and wonders what she eats for breakfast. Melia runs off, and the grunt tries to catch her. However, he sees me, and says that I'm not supposed to be here. He battles me, but I defeat him easily. He groans, and tells me that I can do what I want. I run past the tanks, and see that Melia is alright. Of course she's alright, she smacked a guy across a mountain! Melia thanks me for saving her, and says that if I hadn't come along... She gets back on topic, and says that what's important is getting out of here. However, before we do, she tells me that whoever these guys are, they aren't playing around. She tells me that they have what are called Shadow Pokemon. Melia, if you have no idea who these guys are, then how on earth do you know that they have Shadow Pokemon? First, you tell me about Shiny Pokemon, and now you tell me about Shadow Pokemon? Just what is your deal?

"Shadow Pokemon were created around 30 years ago in the Orre region by an organization called Cipher. However, these guys seemed to have re-created Shadow Pokemon in their image."

Melia tells me to give her my hand, and she attaches the Snag Machine to my sleeve, which should allow me to snag Shadow Pokemon. She tells me that she used some parts from spare Pokeballs that she had lying around. She says that before we leave, we should snag some of their Pokemon, and take them back to the lab. She joins my party, and gives me a ton of Great Balls that her father gave her a while back. She's sure that he'll understand if we borrow these for a while. As we move, she wonders how Team Xen was able to regain the ability to create Shadow Pokemon. As we walk, I notice their vehicles around. I spot a member holding people hostage, putting them in the vehicles. I also see the guard doing his job, even though there's a crisis. Props to you, good sir. I battle another grunt, and she has a Shadow Sewaddle! I snag it, and beat her.

We continue onward, and Melia is horrified as we see a huge sphere in the lake, surrounded by Team Xen boats. Melia says that whatever it is, it can't be good. After I battle another grunt, I see how much damage they've done to this place. We continue onward, until we are stopped by a duo. One of them is an idiot, thinking that the phrase is "not so fart." The other one corrects Eli, the idiot, and says that it's "not so fast', not "not so fart." Eli is confused, and asks Shardon, the girl, if that's what he said. However, she corrects him, saying that her name is Sharon, not "Shardon." Eli thinks that SHE is confused, and says that's what he said. Sharon sighs, and turns over to us, telling me to hand over Melia, or else. Melia defends herself, saying that she is over here, and that she is not an object to be "handed" over. Eli wonders why it's a no-go, and Sharon says that this isn't a negotiation. She threatens me to hand over Melia, now. She's silent, and says that this isn't a staring contest either, so if I don't hand Melia over, they'll just have to make me. Eli is scared, saying that "Shardon" is scary when she's mad. Melia shrugs it off, saying that we'll take both of them on. Sharon tells Eli to get into position, and threatens him not to mess this one up. He obeys, and with Melia at stakes, the battle begins.

Melia deserves to be free, not locked up like what you're doing with everybody else! Time to take you two down a notch!

Unfortunately, I am alone for this battle. Misfortunate Duo Eli and Sharon send out Lunatone, while I send out Noice. After Noice Bites Lunatone, they switch it out for Solrock, who suffers confusion from Supersonic. While Noice Bites Solrock, Solrock hurts itself from being confused. Eli and Sharon give it a Potion, and eventually they switch it out for Lunatone, who gets another Bite. After another Bite, Lunatone goes down, and they have no choice but to send out Solrock, who goes down from another Bite. With Eli and Sharon's Moon and Sun defeated, I win the battle!

Sharon says that it wasn't what she expected, and says that it didn't go as planned. Eli is sad that they lost, and Sharon yells at him, saying they lost. She tells him that they need to work on their teamwork before they can take on big jobs like this. She says that they were supposed to battle together, and tells him that she told him that they had to lay low for a while, but nooooo, somebody had to go open their trap in front of Nastasia. If Nastasia is that one Team Xen member who invaded the ship and took my mother... It would actually make sense, considering that she looks very similar to the one from Super Paper Mario, AND they have the same name. Plus, their personality is similar, too. She turns to us, and says that it doesn't make a difference. She vows that they'll be back for their revenge soon enough. Eli is silent, and the strange duo retreats. Melia remarks that they certainly are a strange duo indeed, but focuses. She says that we should escape as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, when we head down to the exit, it's blocked off by boulders! However, I manage to pick up an Ability Capsule from one of the boulders! The only thing we can do now is stop Team Xen's executive by the lake. We confront him, and he says that the kid finally arrived to their own party. He turns around, and tells Melia that he's been waiting for her. He introduces himself as Zetta, and tells Melia that he's here to take her home. She asks him how he knows her name, and he asks her how he can NOT know her name. He says that she is the famous one they talk about back at the HQ, and she's sooooo popular, that they came all this way just to pick her up. Melia tells him that if this is his crazy way of trying to ask her out... it isn't working. Zetta tells her not to get ahead of herself, and asks us if we've noticed the huge sphere behind him. He introduces it to us as a Dimensional Rift, the latest of Xen technology. He says that it's what they plan to use to forward their plans, and take her away from this place. He says that it will also destroy any resistance towards him, or Team Xen. Melia defends herself, highly doubting he will be able to do anything to us. She tells him that she is in the process of becoming a gym leader, and that Rule #1 is to never underestimate a gym leader. Zetta says that's his point, and that he's doing everything but underestimating her. He tells her that the Dimensional Rift is going to end her cockiness, as he calls forth the Dimensional Rift to activate it.

The Dimensional Rift activates, and a HUGE Gyarados comes out of it. Melia is horrified, and says that we have to go, now. Zetta turns to us, and questions us. He tells us that boulders are blocking our only way out. Thanks, Captain Obvious, we got that a while ago. He highly doubts that we will be able to do anything to break them, either. Melia wonders how we can even defeat something like this, and Zetta says that's just it. He says that we can't, and won't defeat it. However, he has another plan in mind... He decides to take extra precautions by battling us, just to make sure that we don't have ANY chance of taking it out. He says that this will kill some time, too. With Zetta defending the Dimensional Gyarados, the battle begins.

You're going down, Zetta! Once we're done with you, we'll destroy that monstrosity!

Xen Executive Zetta sends out Murkrow, while I send out Sewaddle. I call Sewaddle from Hyper Mode, and have it use Shadow Wave, but then Murkrow knocks it out with Quick Attack and Wing Attack. I send out Noice, who knocks out Murkrow with Gust. Zetta sends out Sneasel, while I send out Venom, who knocks it out with Double Kick. Zetta then sends out a Shadow Froakie! After weakening Froakie, I manage to snag it! Zetta sends out Weezing, while I send out Swoop, who nearly goes down from Weezing's Assurance, but stays in to knock out Weezing with two Confusions. With Zetta's Pokemon defeated and Froakie snagged, I win the battle!

Zetta is surprised, but smirks, because now that I am weakened... The Dimensional Rift will be able to take us both out for sure. He calls forth Gyarados, and orders it to take action. Gyarados roars, and the battle begins.

Yeah... I'm probably screwed in this fight. But at least I'll go down trying!

The Dimensional Rift Gyarados unleashes itself, and I send out Swoop. Gyarados reacts to the Dimensional Rift's Mega Ring, and Mega Evolves into [D] Gyarados. WHY ISN'T MELIA WITH ME FOR THIS FIGHT?! Gyarados uses Rain Dance, while I'm desperately trying to confuse it with Swoop's Confusion. Unfortunately, it doesn't work, as I will now be decimated by Gyarados's power. One by one, each of my Pokemon fall until my last one goes down. Unfortunately, I am defeated, and all I could do was try to confuse it.

Zetta laughs in our faces, and tells us that it is futile. He tells Melia that she should come back with him now, and Madame X will be pleased to see her. Melia desperately asks me what will we do, saying that we can't do anything to that thing, and we can't run. She tries to give up, but just as she's about to do that, the same Garbodor I defeated with Ren saves the day. However, it seems that the Trubbish that went with him is not with him anymore... Mr. Bigglesworth origins confirmed. Garbodor poisons Gyarados, and Melia is happy. She says that Gyarados will eventually faint from poison, but Zetta tells us not to think we have won because he won't let us do anything. Melia sends out her Togepi, and has it use Metronome, which does the move... JUDGMENT. Melia says that she didn't expect that. Well, we're sc-

BOOOOM!!!

Melia wakes me up, and apologizes. She says that Togepi's attack knocked me right out, and says that Togepi's Metronome isn't strong enough to take out that thing. She tells me that the Dimensional Rift was subdued, but it wasn't destroyed. She says that we have to go now. She tells me that the entrances are still blocked off, but she has an idea. She tells me that gym leaders in this region have Pokemon that have signature moves, and that her Togepi knows an attack called Alpha Metronome, which can use any attack it wants selectively. I honestly wonder how us trainers are going to use that move...? However, it's not exactly perfected yet. She tells me that she didn't use it in our battle because we both would have been in a lot of trouble. However, this is an emergency, so we have to try something. She says that she's going to make Togepi Teleport us out of here, and orders it to use Teleport, via Alpha Metronome, while saying please. Fortunately, it works, as we all teleport unscathed.

We end up making it back to Gearen Laboratory, and I look around. Melia asks me if I'm alright, and says that Alpha Metronome worked. She says that Togepi was successful in teleporting us to her dad's room, so we should go tell him what happened. Melia heads inside, and I follow her, but she tells me to be quiet for a second.

We look on ahead, and see Professor Jenner talking to a mysterious woman, who asks him if he sent Melia to Goldenwood Forest, like they requested. Professor Jenner stutters, and says that he has. The woman is pleased, and hopes for his sake that he hasn't gotten attached to Melia, and he tells Madelis that he hasn't. Melia is silent, and Madelis tells him that for his own sake, she hopes that is true. She tries to end the discussion by saying that she'll be on her way, but Melia stops them. Both Professor Jenner and Madelis are shocked to see that Melia has returned, and Professor Jenner asks her what happened. She snaps, and yells at him for talking to her as if he was worried about her. She tells him that he didn't care, and that he wanted her gone. She continues, saying that he never cared, not even from day one, and that he just used her as one of his assistants. She snaps, and says that now that he's done with her, he's going to throw her away in the trash. She asks him if this is true, and Professor Jenner stutters to try to defend himself, saying that she doesn't understand. Madelis snaps, and tells them to shut up. She says that if she wanted to watch something dramatic, she'd stay home and watch TV. She tells Melia that she belongs to them now, and that there's nothing else to it. She tells her to either shut up, or she'll make her shut up. Professor Jenner tries to calm Madelis down, but Madelis turns to him, and says that she'd rather ask him to shut up as well, but she'd rather have him explain why Melia isn't in Goldenwood. Melia explains that's because she took care of the "threat" she imposed on me and her. You took care of all that? Yeah right! I literally did all of the hard work! I beat Zetta down, and at LEAST attempted to beat that thing! What did you do? You just sat there, and had your Garbodor friend and Togepi subdue it! It's still alive and well! So don't you DARE say you did it all, when clearly, I did!!! Madelis is shocked, and asks Melia what she's saying. Melia tells her that with my help, she took out Zetta AND the Dimensional Rift, and asks me if she's right. THAT IS BULLCRAP! I TOOK OUT ZETTA, NOT YOU! AND YOU ONLY SUBDUED THAT FREAKING WEAPON OF DESTRUCTION! YOU FOOL!!! I come in the room, and Professor Jenner is shocked. Madelis then says that if Zetta wasn't able to capture her, she'll do the job just fine. Melia tells her that she won't let her do anything, and has Togepi teleport us out of here, again. However, Madelis sends out Houndoom, and has it attack Togepi. This causes Togepi to teleport Melia and it out of there for a short distance. WHY DID YOU LEAVE ME HERE?! WHY?!?! Professor Jenner is shocked, and Madelis is disappointed. She says it's fine though, because Togepi couldn't have teleported too far with taking a hit like that. She presumes that Melia is somewhere in the city, and vows to find her herself. Madelis returns Houndoom to its Pokeball, and says that she'll be off. However, she warns Professor Jenner that She will be hearing about this. Professor Jenner is silent, as Madelis leaves the room.

After Madelis leaves, I confront Professor Jenner myself. He turns away, and assumes that I despise him as well. He tells me that it's not as it seems, and that he didn't betray her. He tells me that he was planning for this in preparation for this day. Raising Melia to be her very best, signing her up into the league... It's all because he had to prepare her. He reveals that Melia is not his real daughter, but regardless, he asks me to do one more favor. He asks me to go help Melia, because he won't allow her to be taken by Team Xen. He tells me that she wouldn't have gone in the forest, and she wouldn't stay in the city. He tells me that she must've taken the East Railnet's train to Route 2, and he begs me to save her because truthfully, Melia is... However, someone stops his speech, and Ren comes in the room as a Gothitelle appears. Ren reports that he's done with his assignment, but wonders what's going on here. The mysterious voice tells Gothitelle to seize Professor Jenner immediately, and Ren wonders who it is. However, while he is distracted, Gothitelle teleports Professor Jenner away! I come closer to apprehend Gothitelle, but the voice tells me to listen. It warns us not to go after Melia, for it will be the one who rescues her. It warns us that if we try to be heroes, nothing but pain shall follow. It tells us that we aren't involved in this, and to let people who are take care of it. But I AM involved! I was with her at Goldenwood Forest! The voice suggests that we go on home right now, and forget that we saw anything. It tells Gothitelle that it is time for them to leave, and they disappear.

After Gothitelle and the mysterious voice leave, Ren snaps, and wonders what's going on. I explain what happened, and Ren is shocked that Professor Jenner would turn against Melia. Ren doesn't care about what the ghost said, we still have to go after Melia. They said that we weren't involved, but now we are. Ren says that if what I said is true about me and Melia running from Goldenwood Forest, then she has to be heading towards the direction of Route 2. He says that she wouldn't stay in the city if she knew she was being hunted because she's too clever for that. He declares that we're going after Melia, but says that there's a problem. He tells me that I need to get Rock Smash to get through Route 2, and I need a badge for that. He tells me that he's going to go tell Venam that I need to challenge her, and tells me to beat her and acquire the badge, and maybe all three of us can go after Melia. He confirms the plan, and says that we can't waste anymore time.

We head outside, and Ren says that he's going to go tell Venam what happened. He tells me to go finish anything I need to do in order to prepare for my battle, and gives me friendly advice. He warns me not to take the gym leaders in this region lightly, as they all carry six Pokemon, and they all contain amazing movesets. He tells me that it won't be just go in, then hop out. He tells me to create some sort of strategy, and he leaves.

You know, I don't think I should be calling Professor Jenner Professor anymore... I already know his true colors, and I knew it right from the start... Jenner, when we meet again, you're going down, along with the rest of Team Xen! But first, it's time for me to go get my first badge!

Current Stats:

We have another member or two in the team, as Froakie joins the team! I'm not so sure about Sewaddle, but I'll think about it. Everybody trained a lot, too.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 20

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 20

Moves: Poison Sting, Peck, Focus Energy, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 20

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Gust

Woobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 19

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Gust, Assurance

Froakie (Shadow)

Name: Froakie

Level: 13

Moves: Shadow Blitz, Shadow Wave, Shadow Hold

[Tringus]

Chapter V: The Poison Queen Venam, And The Strange Dr. Jenkel!

I head to Venam's gym, and find the gym guy. He tells me that the gym leader of this Poison gym is Venam, and she's a feisty lass with an attitude! She specializes in Poison-types, as he said before. He also tells me that gym leaders in the Aevium Region have signature moves. Again, I already knew this. He tells me that her signature move is Venam's Kiss, a physical move which has a chance of poison. He tells me that it's a weaker move, but her field powers it up immensely. Another thing is that the flora found in this gym is imported straight from the Badlands. Its toxic properties fly through the roof; therefore, the field powers up Poison-type moves. He also tells me that the field also hurts any Pokemon that isn't a Poison-type themselves. Toxic Spikes also cannot be destroyed in this field either. The gym guy recommends that I find a Woobat, which I already have. He wishes me good luck, and I head inside.

As soon as I step inside, Venam is right in front of me. She sees that I need a badge for Rock Smash, and says that I'm going to have to take her down for a badge. She basically tells me that will never happen. She understands the situation, and says that she wants to save Melia just as much as I do, but she is obliged under League obligations to give me misery, and misery I shall receive. Misery loves my company~ She says it's no hard feelings, but she has to do what she has to do. She tells me that she'll be waiting for me in the arena, and tells me not to take too long. She heads to her battlefield, and I start by battling the trainers. I also talk to the scientists, whose job is to make sure that the poison in this gym doesn't get too lethal. I also turn on the interface in the center room, and head into the left room, where I battle more trainers. I learn from the ones who don't battle that the mossy grass and poisonous trees are imported directly from the Badlands. I also learn that there are hidden items all over the gym, and so I look for them. I activate the interface in the left room, find the hidden items, then head back to the center room to look for hidden items. I examine the rocks, and I find an Ability Capsule in the rock near the trees! I head to the right room and beat the trainer there, and talk to the scientist, who tells me that they're forced--asked by the League officials to keep the poison levels to a minimum. Do they actually WANT the poison levels to rise? I activate the interface in the right room, and since all three computers are activated, it activates a portal in the center room!

I take the portal to the floor above, and head inside Venam's arena. I get into position, but apparently, I can't use Shadow Pokemon here. I put Froakie and Sewaddle in the PC, and speak to Venam again, who sits on her throne. She is pleased with the life of a poison gal; Rocker by day, Poison Queen by night. That's the life for Venam. She says that this is real, and honestly doesn't know what's going on besides Melia being chased down by Team Xen. She says we definitely has to fix that, as she comes forward. She then literally starts spazzing out, saying that she's so fired up, and that she can feel the poison running through her veins.

"LETS GOGOGOGOGOGOGOGOGOGOGO!!!!!!"

Umm... no. Venam, are you high? You seem like you need to... chill out.

Rocker Venam sends out the Trubbish she recently caught, while I send out Swoop, who wipes out Trubbish in one hit with Confusion. Venam sends out Stunky, while I send out Venom, who repeatedly uses Double Kick. Eventually, Venam gives Stunky a few potions, until she runs out. When Venom goes into Torment from Stunky, he finishes the job by knocking Stunky out with Peck. Venam sends out Grimer, while I send out Swoop, who knocks Grimer out with Confusion. Venam sends out Quilfish, who also gets knocked out by Swoop's Confusion. Venam sends out Whirlipede, who survives a Confusion, but also Protects itself. However, Whirlipede gets knocked out from another Confusion. Venam sends out Seviper as her final Pokemon, and says that the poison is flowing through her body. Seviper actually puts up a threat, however, as it survives and nearly knocks out Swoop with Venam's Kiss! Fortunately, Swoop is faster, as he knocks out Seviper with another Confusion. With Venam's Pokemon defeated in a sweep, I win the battle!

Venam tells me that despite my flaws, I'm a pretty good trainer. She also sees that I beat her, and says that I'm just that good of a trainer. The music gets serious, as she asks me a serious question. She tells me that Ren told her of the dangers that can be accompanied on this "quest", and she asks me if I'm truly up to the challenge. My mother was taken away from me, Venam, and a friend of mine was ALMOST taken away! Of COURSE I'm up to the challenge! She tells me that I may get hurt, or even worse on the way to victory. She tells me not to answer her now, but to answer her by showing up to Amethyst Cave. She also says that I'm not forced to accompany them this time, either. She says the other times, I was sorta pulled regardless of my answer. She wants to know whether I truly care about Melia, or not. Regardless, I earned the badge. She gives me the Poison Heart Badge, and tells me that Pokemon up to level 30 will obey me now. She also says that she had a TM to give me, but she forgot it at her house, SO... she leaves, saying that it's time to blow this joint. She tells me that Ren and her will meet me at Amethyst Cave, and also tells me to just take the train at the East Train Station. That is, if I choose to help them. She leaves, and I follow.

When I leave the gym, I see a strange man, who claims that his machine is a success. He sees me, and freaks out, seeing that I am a trainer. He freaks out even more, seeing that I have a badge. He turns away, and wonders if I'm the one, saying this with a heart. Umm... Sorry, Doc, but I don't roll that way. He turns toward me, and calls me. He introduces himself as Dr. Jenkel, or Dr. JenLEL if I want. He explains that he has a new experiment going on, and he needs to test it out. Before I can say anything, he says no ifs, no buts, and certainly no butts. He tells me to come with him, and he takes me to an alley building. Gee, that certainly doesn't say "Stranger Danger!" He explains why he was in an alley building, as he tells me that he was researching a way to re-experience important events. He gives me a few examples, and introduces his machine as Dr. Jenkel's Super Obvious Utilized Presentator, also known as SOUP. He tells me that the name doesn't mean anything, either, so I shouldn't use my thinking cap. Is that supposed to be an innuendo or something? He says that I can use this thing to rebattle trainers I've battled before as well. I ask him if it's possible to bring back Pokemon from the machine, and he says maybe, as he doesn't know. He says that I'll have to go and try it for myself, and it's right in the room in the back. He also tells me that I can only repeat the events once, so I shouldn't screw up. I go into the back, set the event to the Goldenwood Incident, and step into the machine.

When I am conscious, I see that I am back in Goldenwood Forest, which means that it worked. Dr. Jenkel appears for some reason, and is surprised to see that it really worked. I thought you already tested this thing, you idiot! He thanks me, but wonders what my name is. I tell him my name, and is still happy that it really works. He goes to the cave, and tells me that he only needed me here to test it out. He says that if I wanna leave, just say it. I go ahead to see if I can battle the Shadow Sewaddle and Shadow Froakie again, and sure enough, I can. I teleport back to the lab, and Dr. Jenkel thanks me for testing his machine. He gives me a Thunderstone as thanks, and also tells me that he's been researching something that would allow certain Pokemon to go through cleansing. Does he mean purifying Shadow Pokemon? He says that it's cool as crap right now, but unfortunately, he only has enough power for one use, so I better make sure I have a Pokemon that would really want to use it. If it fails, that's too bad for me.

I leave Dr. Jenkel's lab, and head to Venam's house. Surprisingly, it's unlocked, and her mother turns around to notice me. She thought that I was her daughter, Veronica, and says that she's been causing so much trouble lately. She thinks that it's because Veronica became a gym leader, so she's sorta spoiled now. She tells me to make myself at home, and thanks me for visiting because she hasn't really had a lot of time for friends. She gives me TM96 Nature Power as thanks, and says that Venam was supposed to be issuing this TM to whoever defeated her, but she keeps forgetting to. She also tells me that she changed her hair color to purple so that Venam would like her more, but obviously it isn't working. I see a statue in the living room, and it's to congratulate Venam on becoming a member of the Aevium League. I head upstairs into her room, and find the Poison Barb on her table.

I leave Venam's house, and decide to head out to Route 2 to help look for Melia.

I'm going to help with the search. Melia is my friend, but if anything bad happens to her... I can never forgive myself. Don't worry, Melia! Help is on the way!

Current Stats:

Swoop, there it is! SWOOP, THERE IT IS!! SWOOP, THERE IT IS!!! Swoop was VICIOUS defeating Venam's Pokemon like that. Both Charles and Swoop leveled up to 21, with Swoop learning Air Cutter. Froakie is almost ready to be purified as well, along with Sewaddle. If only I can find where to go to purify them... I'm sure I will be able to soon, though.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 21

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 20

Moves: Poison Sting, Peck, Focus Energy, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 20

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Gust

Woobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 21

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Assurance

Froakie (Shadow)

Name: Froakie

Level: 13

Moves: Shadow Blitz, Shadow Wave, Shadow Hold

[Tringus]

Chapter VI: Sneaky Thieves And Snobby Rich People Everywhere, The Prizm Gang, And The Mysterious Psychic Nim!

After beating Venam, I head over to the East Railnet, buy a ticket, and travel to Route 2. I see a Nurse Joy, and head over to the left, where I get plenty of Fresh Waters. I follow the right path, but I find a dead end with a Super Potion. I follow the other path, but as soon as I pass a girl stuck in a tree, she screams, and yells to watch out. She jumps, and lands on top of me! She literally crushes me, and gets off of me. She apologizes, but tells me that I'll have to watch where I'm going. But you're the one who jumped on me! She says that she should get going now, so she bids goodbye. I look in my wallet, and some of my money is missing! Yup... I literally got jumped... Well played... I follow her, and find her at a dead end. She mutters to herself about not having Rock Smash, and turns around to notice me. She jumps over the ledge, and tells me that if I want to catch her, I'll need Rock Smash. She says if I reallyyyy want to chase her, I can find Rock Smash in Gearen City. Unfortunately, a local gang seems to have it, though. She wishes me good luck getting it, and I head back to Gearen City.

I head back to Gearen City, and I find the Prizm Gang next to the Pokemon Center next to the huge Chrisola Hotel. I battle the two guards of their leader, and beat them easily. I talk to their leader, who introduces herself as Karrina, the leader of this small gang here. She sees that I want Rock Smash, and tells me that only official members of her gang can have it. She tells me if I want to prove myself, I should meet her in the basement of Chrisola Hotel because they have a battlefield that we can use there. She heads there, and so do I.

When I head to Chrisola Hotel, I talk to the man in front of the Gardevoir statue, and he tells me of the hotel's origins.

"This place used to be owned by a man and his daughter. However, they disappeared one day and never came back. People tried to look for them, but to no avail. Because of that, they were reported missing, but as the years gone by, they were finally pronounced dead. So a very rich man bought his mansion, and then renovated it into a hotel for the rich folk of Gearen."

Were the man and his daughter those two people from the tragic event decades ago? Creepy stuff indeed...

I speak to the rich folk around, and they are complete snobs. I talk to the man at the desk, and he sees that I am quite young. He then has the gall to ask me where my mother is, but shrugs it off, saying that any person is a guest as long as they have money. You inconsiderate, stuck-up jerk! My mother was kidnapped by Team Xen, and you mock me by asking me such a question? How dare you! He states that the cost of a room is $100,000,000,000 per hour. WHAT THE HECK... I CAN"T EVEN AFFORD THAT MUCH, AND I'M PRETTY SURE THAT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO ACHIEVE! He sees that I don't have that kind of money, and asks if I don't have money, then what am I doing. He rudely tells me that he doesn't speak with common city peasants, and suggests that I walk out of this hotel, and come back with money if I ever want to be a guest here. He rudely adds that he doubts that I will never get that amount so to him I will always be a dirty street rat. And you will always be a weak, pathetic, idiotic scrub with no life whatsoever. I doubt you have that kind of money either, so don't even talk to me, you stuck-up piece of trash! He tells me to begone, as he has no further business to do with such as the likes of me. Good day to you, sir scrub!

I head into the casino, and see a proper rich man who looks like he may as well be the mayor of Gearen City. He asks me what I am doing in his casino, and tells me that he is indeed the owner of this casino, as well as the entire hotel in fact. He introduces himself as Mr. Blakeory, and pronounces it like I don't know how to pronounce it. He tells me that when he was small, he came up with the move Trick Room. It gained instant popularity, and therefore his income raised to greater heights. However, now he is retired (for the most part), and resides in this hotel. He believes, however, that those only who have accomplished things may enjoy the greater things. Therefore, the price of a room is $100,000,000 per hour. WHAT IS THE ACTUAL PRICE?! YOU, SIR, SAY THAT IT IS THAT MUCH, BUT THE OTHER GUY SAID IT WAS MORE THAN THAT! He says that while I may not ever stay here, to enjoy my stay. Well THAT'S contradictory right there! I head to the other room, and a kid wants to get a Seel, or he'll scream. His mother smacks him, and he's in pain. I also find a girl who says that she has a gambling addiction, and can't stop playing the slots. She then proceeds to flush her coin case down a toilet, claiming that will help. She flushes it, and claims that she's free, and that it's gone from her life.

I head upstairs to the left, and speak with a rich man who wonders what a peasant like me is doing here in this fine establishment. He assumes that I must be looking for food, and gives me a Sweet Heart. He claims that he's such a generous soul for helping the needy. Oh, you poor unfortunate soul... I speak to a girl, who actually cares about people's stuck-up ways. Glad I'm not the only one! I head into a room, and I see a girl with a Mareep, and it's not very happy with her. She thinks that it prefers a nomadic lifestyle, and sees that I am a trainer. Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of badges, or traveled much at all, so she shrugs me off. I talk to the little girl in front of her door, and assumes that I want to visit her garden. Instead of being stuck-up, she's fine with that, but only if I defeat her in a battle, which I do. She says that I am an amazing battle, and I can use her garden any time. She heads inside, and tells me that for some reason, different Pokemon appear in her garden. She says that it is sad that the air is fresher in a hotel than it is outside of it.

As I head to the last room, it shows that Sewaddle can now be purified! I guess walking DOES work. I head into the last room, and find that Tesla lives here. She greets me, and didn't expect to see me here. She sees that I now know that she owns a lot of money. She tells me that she doesn't care what the rules are here, and that if I ever need a place to stay, she's here. She knows what it's like to be alone, and doesn't want me to experience that same grief. She says I can make myself at home. I talk to her Talonflame, and it wants food. Tesla sees that it wants more food, but they just ate. It screeches again, and she wonders what she's going to do with it. I rest up, thanks to Tesla's kind hospitality, and head into the East Wing.

I head to the East Wing, and I head into the room with the Gardevoir statues. A woman and her daughter live in it, and the mother says that for some reason, this room is larger than any other room in the whole hotel. She wonders why that is, and I head into the next room. I see an explorer, who sees me, and says that a visitor is a rare occurrence these days. He thanks me for coming all this way to speak to him, and gives me $200 as a tip. He tells me to go attend to the other guests now, but realizes that I don't work here. He freaks out, and wonders what I'm doing in his room. He tells me to leave, calling me a scoundrel. I talk to a guy outside, and he tells me that he doesn't have enough money, but he'll loiter if he wants. I head into the last room, and a little boy gives me an Antidote, because he got really sick, but his mom tried to feed him that. The little girl tells me that her mom told her not to run around, otherwise it'll make her a delinquent. Their mother tells me that she came to Gearen solely for the use of this hotel. She says that while Gearen is gross, this hotel is so luxurious.

I finally head down to the basement, heal my Pokemon, and enter the battle room. I see Karrina, and for some reason, I see Adrian as well. I get into position, and Karrina tells me that only members of her gang can have Rock Smash. She says that if I really want it, I'm going to have to show her what I got.

This is so worth having to suffer from rich people. Tesla's great, but the rest are terrible! Anyways, after this, you're gonna give me Rock Smash!

Gang Leader Karrina sends out Vullaby, while I send out Noice. I switch out Noice with Charles, and have him attack with Dragon Rage. Vullaby goes down after another Dragon Rage, and Karrina sends out Audino, who gets knocked out after two Dragon Rages from Charles. Karrina sends out Grovyle, while I send out Swoop. After Grovyle nearly goes down from Swoop's Air Cutter, Karrina switches Grovyle out for Venonat, who goes down in one hit from Swoop's Air Cutter. Karrina sends out Grovyle, who also goes down from Swoop's Air Cutter. With Karrina's Pokemon down, I win the battle and get Rock Smash!

Karrina sees that I'm good, but reveals that she didn't use her real team with me. She says that if she used her real power, I wouldn't even scratch her. She reveals that she's testing newbies in this town so she can recruit them. She tells me that when I have time, I should help them out too. If I don't, that's fine too. However, she gives me TM94 Rock Smash because I deserved it. She tells me that all of her members have it. She tells me that if I want to help, I should meet them at their base for more info.

I leave Chrisola Hotel, and see that one of the buildings next to where I battled the Prizm Gang isn't blocked anymore, which means that this must be there base. I head inside, and sure enough, it is. Karrina greets me, and is glad to have a powerful trainer on their side. She tells me that we're going to find an opposing gang tonight, and that gang has been causing trouble all over the city ever since they got here a few years ago. She tells me that they've been trying to stop them, but the city thinks they're bad people. So they've been trying to do what's right for everyone... She says that if I'm interested, I should meet them at Amethyst Cave. How convenient... I'm actually on my way there! I already know where I have to go, so I'm good. I look around, and they have high-tech technology. They have the whole city monitored so they can see who's been causing trouble. While I'm walking around, it shows that Froakie can now be purified!

I leave the base, and head to Route 2 again. I follow the path to the girl who robbed me, and I teach Rock Smash to Venom. He smashes the rock, and I confront the thief. She jumps across the ledge, and runs off. I follow her, and then she confronts me as I climb down the stairs. She admits that this chase is kinda fun, but slows me down a bit. She sends out her Solrock, and has it use Rock Slide. She giggles, and asks me if it's impressive. She asks me if I hear anything, but says that it's me being stuck. She laughs and runs off, while I'm slowly cursing at her for doing this to me. Venom smashes the rock, and I continue the path. I head to a bridge, where I am battled by a trainer. I'd say that THIS slows me down more than that rock... After I defeat the trainer, I get off the bridge, but find a tree moving to the left... IN WHAT WAY WOULD A TREE BE ABLE TO MOVE!?!?! I beat the trainer I see as I head left, and find a trainer with an Electivire. I skip past them, and find the moving tree at a dead end. It says that it is just an ordinary tree taking part in photosynthesis. I talk to it again, and it asks me if I like looking at trees all day, and if I get a kink out of that. I touch it again, and it yells at me that it is a dang tree, asking me if I would stop touching it. It finally reveals itself to be the thief, who says that I'm persistent... and she likes it. In what way do you like it...? She tells me that if I want my money back, I'm going to have to capture her. I'm not sure if I'm going to like where this is going or not... She then teleports away. SCREW YOU...

I battle more trainers, and during those battles, Swoop evolves into... Swoobat! I train my Pokemon a bit from the breeder, and then arrive at Amethyst Cave. I see the thief right in front of the entrance, so I heal my Pokemon and prepare to confront her. She mutters something about making it through the cave, and she spots me. She asks me how I got through so fast, but then she says that there's no turning back now. She introduces herself as Nim, and apologizes, revealing that I've been tricked. She reveals that she didn't actually steal my money, but actually lured me over here because she saw my gym battle with Venam. She reveals that she saw it by using her psychic powers to make herself invisible. However, she got me to follow her to have a battle with me. She admits that just asking me would have been easier, but that's boring. She sets the stage as she uses her psychic powers to teleport us to her battlefield. She confesses that when she first saw me go into Venam's gym, she didn't think I could actually beat her. But I proved her wrong, as she promises that from now on, me and her are rivals. She wants to start off this rivalry with an intense battle.

You want to battle? You really could have just asked. Let's go!

Apprentice Nim sends out Lunatone and Solrock, while I send out Charles and Venom. Since Nim is a psychic, this is a psychic field, which means that psychic energy fills the air, and Psychic-type moves are stronger. Both Charles and Venom gang up on Solrock, attacking it with Dragon Rage and Double Kick. Unfortunately, Solrock survives, and both Solrock and Lunatone attack Charles and Venom with Rock Slide, knocking out poor Charles. I send out Froakie, who desperately needs exp, and Venom knocks out Solrock with Double Kick. Nim sends out Inkay, and Venom gets knocked out by Lunatone's Confusion. I send out Swoop, who attacks both Inkay and Lunatone with Air Cutter. Froakie tries attacking with Water Pulse, but gets knocked out by Lunatone's Confusion. I send out Noice, who gets attacked by Inkay's Feint Attack. Swoop knocks out Inkay with Air Cutter, and Noice knocks out Lunatone with Bite. Nim sends out Espurr, who Noice and Swoop gang up on with Air Cutter, beating it down to the ground. With Nim's Psychic Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Nim is inspired by my power, and admits honestly that she didn't expect me to beat her so easily. Since I beat her, she gives me a Twisted Spoon as a reward, and she says that she's going to stay here and train a bit more. She sends me back to Amethyst Cave, and says that she'll be back for another battle soon, and says goodbye. As I get sent back to Amethyst Cave, she says that she'll always be watching me. With that said, I head inside the cave.

Now that the chase is over, I can go save Melia and help the gang. Don't worry, everyone! Help is on the way!

Current Stats:

Everybody leveled up to 25, and learned new moves, too. Swoop also evolved into Swoobat, so now there's more Swoopla.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 25

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 25

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 25

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 25

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Attract

Froakie (Shadow)

Name: Froakie

Level: 13

Moves: Shadow Blitz, Shadow Wave, Shadow Hold, Water Pulse

[Tringus]

Chapter VII: The Amethyst Cave Conspiracy, The Death Of Melia, And The Prizm Gang's Gang War!

I head inside Amythyst Cave, and I see Venam fighting a few Team Xen grunts. She tells me not to worry about her, she'll take care of these goons. I battle the first grunt as I go through the non-blocked path, and I see that she has a Shadow Vanillite! I snag it, and continue onward. I climb down a ladder, and I find Ren. He tells me that Melia probably took a wrong turn, and now she's being cornered. However, there are two branching paths that we can take. He tells me that we can take the north, but as he tries telling me the other path, a Galvantula appears, and Ren wonders what it's doing in Amethyst Cave. He says that Galvantula aren't native to this cave at all, and he tells me that there's a change in plans. He tells me that he'll head north, while I head south. He explains that he has to know why that Galvantula is here because there can't be a good reason. He explains that if that thing is allowed to linger around any longer, it could affect the ecosystem. Galvantula runs off, and Ren chases after it. I try to follow them, but I get blocked off by a web. However, it shows that Ren is trapped in the web with Galvantula hiding behind it. Seeing that, I have no choice but to follow the southern path.

As I follow the path, I defeat multiple Team Xen grunts, and I also find a Shadow Bonsly! I guess Team Xen completed what Cipher couldn't do: make a Shadow Bonsly. I snag it, and battle more Xen grunts. I also find TM05 Roar lying around on the ground. I battle one more Xen grunt before I climb down another ladder.

When I get to the bottom, I see a huge room with Galvantula webs everywhere, along with many Joltik as well. I also hear rumbling, which means that there must be a Dimensional Rift here. I approach Zetta, and he sees that I finally caught up to him. He turns around and angrily asks me if I know what I've caused. Ren arrives, and fires the question back at him. Venam arrives with him, and says that they got held up by his goons, but now they're here to play. She demands that he tells us where Melia is, and Zetta snaps. He tells us that Melia no longer exists in this universe, and it's all thanks to me. Okay, just how am I responsible for Melia's death? Ren and Venam get confused, and ask me what he's talking about. Honestly, I have no idea. Zetta explains that because of my resistance at Goldenwood... Melia was killed. Ren and Venam become shocked, and say that's impossible. Venam accuses Zetta of lying, and Zetta tells them why would he lie because he, too, was after Melia. He tells me if I would just let him apprehend her... this would not have happened. Ren tells him that he was gonna kidnap her, so we HAD to resist against him. He ask Zetta how he even knows if Melia was killed because he doesn't see any remains around here. Venam confirms this, and says that there are no remains, or even traces of Melia being snuffed out. She demands Zetta to prove what he says is true, and he does by showing us her bloodied robe, explaining that he saw the Galvantula chewing upon it, and that it had to be her. He wonders how a Galvantula found its way into this cave because he doesn't know. However, because of this, all of their plans are foiled. Does that mean we win in a twisted way? Venam mourns over Melia's death, and snaps. She tells Zetta not to even try to blame me for this because he's the one who started this. Ren agrees, and tells Zetta that we're going to make him pay for his actions. Zetta tells us if we think we can defeat him, then fine. However, he warns us that he will not stop even if all of our Pokemon are out of commission. He explains that the price of this crime is death, and vows that dead we shall be. Ren tells him that he's nothing but talk, and advises that instead of talking, he does something about it. Ren turns over to me, and asks me if I want to team up with him or Venam.

Since I've battled with Ren before, I'm going to team up with... Venam. Zetta, you're going down!

Zetta sends out Croagunk and Sneasel, while Venam and I send out Whirlipede and Charles. We both gang up on Sneasel by having Charles use Ember and Whirlipede use Venam's Kiss. Zetta sends out Absol, who nearly goes down from Whirlipede's Bug Bite. Charles attacks Croagunk with Dragon Rage a few times, and it goes down, while Absol goes down from Whirlipede's Bug Bite. Unfortunately, Croagunk confuses Charles with Swagger before it goes down, but Charles still hits it. Zetta sends out Quilladin, while Charles snaps out of confusion and hits with a critical hit Ember. Whirlipede knocks out Quilladin with Venoshock, and with Zetta's Pokemon defeated, we win the battle!

Zetta says that it's no problem, and says that our fighting skills are impressive. However, he tells us that we are no match for what we are about to witness, as he reminds me about Dimensional Rifts. He explains that they are multipurpose balls of dark energy that can be used for transportation, destruction, and killing weak trainers. He explains that all that is truly required is a sacrifice to open the rift up. He tells me to look and behold, for the very same Galvantula that stole Melia's life... Will be the very same that will steal mine. He calls forth the Galvantula from the Dimensional Rift as he activates it, and it unleashes a gigantic, black and red Galvantula. Ren freaks out, and Venam says that it's not natural at all. Zetta commands the Galvantula to tear the three of us to pieces, as Galvantula roars. However, a voice tries to calm it by telling it that it must soothe its soul from any impurities. Ren gets confused, and wonders who it was. Zetta angrily says that the talking ends here, and orders Galvantula to destroy us.

Not if we have anything to say about! Give Melia back, you gigantic, horrendous arachnid!

The Dimensional Rift Galvantula unleashes two small, black and red Joltik. This thing can corrupt other Pokemon within a Dimensional Rift? Venam sends out Whirlipede, while I send out Charles. Charles knocks out one of the Joltik with a critical hit Ember, while Galvantula comes out. Galvantula's Demonstone reacts to the Dimensional Rift's Mega Ring, and Mega Evolves into [D] Galvantula. Whirlipede Protects itself, while both Galvantula and Joltik use Electroweb. Unfortunately, Galvantula knocks out Charles with another Electroweb, and Whirlipede goes down from a few more Electrowebs, but not before nearly knocking out Joltik with Venam's Kiss. Venam sends out Weezing, while I send out Venam, who gets knocked out by Galvantula's Electroweb. I send out Noice, who confuses Galvantula, but Weezing uses Explosion, and knocks everybody out. Unfortunately, I have no other Pokemon except Shadow Bonsly, so I send it out while Venam sends out her Seviper. However, it surprisingly does a lot of damage, as it knocks out one of the Joltiks that come out. Seviper nearly knocks out the other Joltik with Venam's Kiss, and the Joltik don't even attack Bonsly. Seviper finishes the job with Venoshock, and with all of the Joltik and the Dimensional Rift Galvantula defeated, we win the battle!

Zetta is shocked, and wonders how this is even possible. He asks us how we were able to hold our own against a Dimensional Rift, and wonders if it was weakened somehow. No, that thing actually nearly beat us. Thank you, Shadow Bonsly, for actually doing some damage! He encourages Galvantula that it can still win this, but the mysterious voice tells Galvantula that it knows what it's doing is wrong. It knows that Galvantula is angry, and begs it to halt its anger. Zetta is shocked, and says that's the second time he's heard this. He tells the voice to stop being a coward and show itself. It tells Gothitelle to use Mind Breaker, and it gets rid of the DImensional Rift Galvantula. Zetta is shocked, and wonders how this is happening because he's never experienced this before. Venam tells him that maybe it's because he has no right to do the crap that he's doing. She tells him that this is happening because the world won't allow him to continue what he is doing here. The voice says that she is correct, and explains that the world has chosen it to combat Zetta's efforts; therefore, he has no chance of winning. Zetta admits defeat, saying that he has to get out of here. However, the voice tells him that he's not getting away from it again, and like Jenner, it will have to apprehend him itself. Zetta freaks out, and wonders who the voice is. However, a girl and her Gothitelle appear, and Ren is surprised. It's the same girl from the ship! Zetta wonders who she is, and she introduces herself as Crescent, who explains that she is here to end his reign of evil because she's honestly getting a little tired of seeing his face. She reveals that she also needs him gone because he's the only one who can command the Dimensional Rifts. She and Gothitelle get closer to him, and tell him that it's time to leave. Zetta is scared, telling her not to touch him. However, they vanish.

Ren says that we somehow got through that okay, and Venam says that she can't say that we did it because we were strong because we were quite weak. Ren agrees, and says that we got extremely lucky. He says that it's all thanks to Crescent. However, we all didn't get lucky today... Melia's gone... forever. Venam says that it's all Zetta's fault, and regrets that she didn't get here sooner. She gets silent, and then says that it's time for her to go to Gearen City now. She says that we could stay here, and cry to ourselves about what could have happened, but she's not about that life. She promises to continue to move on forward because that's what Melia would have wanted. She says that she's gone for now, and that she'll have to notify the authorities as well. She says goodbye, and Ren realizes that Venam is capable of producing monologues. He sometimes wonders what her true persona is; Veronica, or Venam. He tells me that the cave should be clear of any Team Xen danger now, and says that he's going to go pursue Crescent because he needs some answers. He tells me that if I'm lost on where I should go next, I should go through the rest of this cave. He tells me that on the other side of this cave is Sheridan Village. He also tells me that there's a gym there as well, so if I'm interested in challenging the league, I know what to do. He leaves, and I explore the cave. I examine Melia's bloody robe, and find a sleek, slender object... I get her Room ID card.

I explore more of the cave, and I find the Prizm Gang battling the other gang. How did THEY get here when Team Xen was invading the cave? The others tell me to speak to Karrina, and so I do. She needs to take me out the other gang's leader pronto. She explains that she's not battling because she got seriously injured. She tells me that during the battle with their leader, she kinda fell off the edge. She tells me to go after him, and so I do. He says that if I think I can beat him, I'm easily mistaken. Unfortunately for him, he is wrong, and I beat him easily. I do admit, however, that he put up a good fight. He says I'm too strong for them, and tells his gang to retreat. Everybody leaves except Karrina, and she says that because of me, we ran the gang out of town. She thanks me, and tells me to come to the HQ, because they have a special reward for me. She leaves by jumping off the edge... again.

I head back to Gearen City, and meet up with Karrina and the rest of the gang back at the Prizm Gang's HQ. Karrina thanks me for my help at Amethyst Cave, and says that they triumphed because of me. I was actually hoping to sweep the ENTIRE gang, not just their leader... She gives me a Houndour as thanks, which I name Cerberus. Karrina tells me that the city will be a lot safer now that the local gang has been disbanded. With everything done there, I leave. I also see that the building next to it is also part of the Prizm Gang's base, which makes me wonder why it's still blocked.

I head to Gearen Laboratory, and scan the Room ID card at the door next to the stairs. I head inside, and it takes me to Melia's room, where I find the Exp. Share!

I head back to Amethyst Cave, and head deeper into the cave. I battle a scientist, who claims that his study is more valuable than my, or my family's lives. Why do people ALWAYS have to talk crap about my family? My mother was KIDNAPPED by terrorists! Don't you people have the decency not to tick me off even further?! I then continue until I find a man telling a few Team Xen grunts to begone, for he has no further use for any of them. The grunts are confused, and tell him that they are his assigned grunts, and that they're with him through thick and thin. The man precisely agrees, and says that this, however, is where the thin edge becomes nothing, and thus, they aren't with him. The grunt gets confused, and the man tells them to go, and he's serious. They leave, while one looks back, then leaves. The man then talks senses me, and tells me not to think he didn't notice my presence for a second. He says that he'd rather not turn his back and see my face. That way, when we meet appropriately, he won't be biased. He warns me not to tell anyone what I saw just now, or I'll regret it. He leaves, and I follow him. I follow the path, and see that it leads to Sheridan Village. I leave the cave, and enter Sheridan Village.

Who was that man just now? Who is Crescent? She has a nonexistent move, so she HAS to be a gym leader... And Melia... Rest In Peace... Zetta... When I find you again, you will pay...

Current Stats:

The team leveled up a little bit, but nothing special happened aside from that. Two new Shadow Pokemon were caught: Vanillite and Bonsly.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 27

Moves: Scratch, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 25

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 26

Moves: Screech, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 27

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Attract

Froakie (Shadow)

Name: Froakie

Level: 13

Moves: Shadow Blitz, Shadow Wave, Shadow Hold, Water Pulse

[Tringus]

Chapter VIII: The Peaceful Sheridan Village, The Search For The Soul Stone, And The Mysterious Sensei Keta!

As soon as I head into Sheridan Village, I see an old woman and a girl arguing about a man. The elder tells the girl named Aelita that she's sure he has some reasons for his actions, but Aelita doesn't listen. She understands that he does have a reason, but that doesn't excuse the way he's been behaving. She explains that all he does is stay in his house all day, and neglects his citizens, including his very own family. She tells the elder that he's supposed to be THEIR Sensei, and that he's supposed to be guiding them to increase their bonds with Pokemon. Eldest tells Aelita that she understands, and tells her that she's known him since she was a little girl, and that he's never acted this way before. She wonders if something is bothering him, and Aelita says that if that's the case, then he should be asking them for guidance because they're here to support each other. She explains that this is how the Fighting-type prevailed in the shattering of the region 50 years ago, and says that they have to be alert at all times, and always be willing to give the one next to us a chance. She turns away, and admits that sometimes she can't deal with this anymore. She tells the Eldest that people are leaving them, and that they're scared because their leader isn't leading them. She leaves in shame, and the Eldest is saddened. She notices me, and assumes that I noticed all of that just now. She apologizes, and tells me that they've been having some problems with their village. She hopes that I will enjoy my stay in their village regardless, and leaves.

I head inside one of the houses, and a girl tells me that her boyfriend went out to Amethyst Cave, but never came back. She asks me if I can go look for him, and I say yes. She tells me that he said he was going to investigate a waterfall, but wonders where that could be. I head into the other house, and get a Sweet Heart. I find the move tutor's house, but unfortunately, only the move tutor's sister is there because she went on a journey a long time ago, and she still isn't back. I find a Makuhita blocking a house, but it smacks me away because it doesn't respect me. You'll respect me sooner or later, you fat lard of crap... I battle some trainers, and head to the Pokemon Center, and put Bonsly and Cerberus in the PC. I see a Skitty, and the lady nearby tells me that one day a trainer came in here after having a battle with the Sensei, and then abandoned it for losing. It thinks that one day its trainer will come back, but the lady doesn't see that happening. She asks me if I want to take Skitty with me, and I say yes because it needs a nice home. I take it from Sasha, and she tells me to take care of it for her. Sure enough, it is already named Skittles. I was going to name it Delilah...

I head to a house next to the house with the disrespectful Makuhita, and head inside. I find a note, and I read it...

"Eli's journal November 4th, 2001. To who reads, uh a-this screp of pepper. 'Cannot take care of no more, please take care.' 'Eli will think of it in dreams, and doing the bad in outside.' 'Ehh it time for Eli to go, a-go-go, ciao." So that idiot Eli lived here? Strange... I wonder where Sharon lived before she joined Team Xen?

I take a look at what Eli left behind, and it is a Tyrogue! I name it Eli in honor of him, and leave. I battle more trainers, and get a Soothe Bell. I also learn that all the fishing rods in this region are lathered by slick oil, which allows me to fish in electrically charged water, and even magma!

I battle the rest of the trainers, and head above the waterfall, where I find Aelita. She wonders why the Sensei won't talk to her, and she notices me. She asks me if she's blocking my way, and says that she was just about to enter herself, but she changed her mind. She realizes that she didn't introduce herself, and tells me that her name is Aelita, and she is one of the highest ranking fighters in this village. She tells me that she was going to go see the Sensei again because he's been in a slump lately, and she doesn't know what to do about it. She explains that because of this, people are starting to leave the village, and they need a leader. She apologizes because I didn't even ask all that. She says that she'll get going, and leaves. I head inside, and see a statue much like Venam's. However, it is badly damaged, which means that he attacked it. I head into the other room, where I see two beds. Who else lives here? I see the Sensei, and he sees that I am another trainer who wants to gain the right of having his badge. He asks me if that's my problem, but says that I'm not the only one with problems... He tells me to look at him, and reveals that he's slipping... fast... He says that the guilt he has turns his hair white, and now he has people like me crying for badges. He shrugs it away, and reluctantly accepts my challenge... only if I do something to prove my worth. He says if I go to Amethyst Cave, I should be able to find a ladder somewhere. He tells me that the ladder is blocked by stone, but the stone is cracked and malleable. All I have to do is smash my way through the wall. Once I do that, the ladder will bring me to a secret area of Amethyst Cave... Amethyst Grotto. He reveals that within Amethyst Grotto, I will find what is known as a Soul Stone. He promises that if I bring back the Soul Stone, he will accept my writ of challenge. He also says that he can't see straight anymore, and he's losing it, minute by minute. He tells me to find the Soul Stone at once, and I leave.

I head to Amethyst Cave, and I find a man with a Lunatone. However, the Lunatone is a wild Pokemon, and I catch it. The man thanks me for helping him out, and I tell him that his girlfriend is worrying about him. He says he has to get home, but to come by later so I can be rewarded. He leaves, and I head to the entrance of Amethyst Cave where I found the red stone. I touch it, and it reveals a cave, making the red stone disappear. I find a ladder, and it takes me down to Amethyst Grotto, where I see what appears to be the Sensei's spirit. He tells me to follow him, and I do. I follow the spirit to a shrine, surrounded by empty statues, as well as Arceus statues. The spirit tells me not to fear, for he introduces himself as Keta. However, he tells me not to confuse myself, for he is not the same Keta I saw at Sheridan Village. He says that Keta is his former self who has purposefully separated his emotions from himself long ago after a tragic accident. Therefore, that, as I may have noticed, is the reason for his inner and outer breakdown. He reveals that he is the manifestation of those emotions, and says that he has brought me here for a special reason...

"This is Amethyst Grotto. Many people think that Amethyst Cave is the cave I once went through. However, that is just the very surface of what this cave truly is. On the very bottom of this cave holds a power that is known as Arceus. That is what Team Xen is after. They wish to hold that power for themselves. For what reason exactly, I do not know."

He reveals that he is also part of Team Xen, and I back away. However, he tells me not to fear him, for he means no harm. I KNEW something was suspicious back at the end of Amethyst Cave! He says that he must ask me of something, and tells me that the only way to bring back his old self is to show him his true weakness, and that I must do this by defeating him in battle. Keta tells me that by showing him my superiority in front of the whole village, it should be able to show him the true path. Keta understands that his body will not allow me to battle him without the Soul Stone, and he gets it for me. He explains that by presenting this stone to him, he shall allow me to spar with him. The spirit thanks me, and bids me goodbye. He disappears, and says when this is all over, I should come back here. With that said, I leave Amethyst Grotto, and head back to Sheridan Village.

I head back to Keta's house, and he asks me if I found the Soul Stone. I say yes, and he sees that I have fulfilled my quest. He reveals that he has no use for that stone, but he will heed my writ of challenge. He tells me to follow him outside if I wish to challenge him, and so I do. I see everybody surrounding the battle field, and the two trainers aren't battling anymore. They're all shocked at his appearance, and Aelita tells me to take it easy on him. Eldest is disappointed at what he's done to himself, too, and I get into position. However, much like Venam, Keta tells me to get rid of my Shadow Pokemon, but this is because they never cease to haunt him. I put Froakie in the PC, and then come out to battle Keta. He tells me to ignore the audience, as they are inconsequential to our battle. He reveals that he needs this battle to show him the true path, and which path is right for him to endure. He vows not to lose this, and asks Aelita to explain the rules. As she explains the rules, Keta's spirit appears to watch the battle. Once Aelita explains all of the rules, the battle begins.

Keta... You will be saved, both body and spirit. Battle commence!

Sensei Keta sends out Hawlucha, while I send out Venom. Hawlucha attacks with Aerial Ace, but gets poisoned from Venom's Poison Point. Venom attacks with Horn Attack, but I eventually switch out Venom for Swoop while Keta heals Hawlucha with a Super Potion. Swoop causes Hawlucha to fall in love by using Attract, and then knocks it out with Confusion. Keta sends out Pignite, while I switch out Swoop with Venom. However, I send Swoop out again, but Pignite strikes with a critical hit Flame Charge. Swoop Attracts Pignite, but nearly gets knocked out by Pignite's Rock Tomb. I heal Swoop with some Fresh Water, and Pignite gets stuck in its love trance. After giving a Fresh Water to Venom on accident, Pignite gets stuck from Attract, even though it could knock Swoop out with a Thunder Punch. However, Swoop manages to knock it out with Confusion. Keta sends out Machoke, while I send out Noice. Noice strikes Machoke with Air Cutter, and Machoke misses its Rock Slide, allowing Noice to knock it out with another Air Cutter. Keta sends out a shiny Lucario, while I send out Charles, who burns Lucario with two Fire Fangs. Keta sends out Gurdurr, while I send out Noice, who strikes with a critical hit Air Cutter, while surviving a Rock Throw. Keta heals Gurdurr with a Super Potion, and Noice knocks it down with another Air Cutter. Keta sends out Medicham, and he starts freaking out, saying that he can't lose to me. I send out Venom so I can heal Noice, and Venom goes down from Medicham's Thunder Punch. I send out Noice, and he knocks most of Medicham's health with Air Cutter, but goes down from Medicham's Thunder Punch. I send out Swoop, but he misses an Air Cutter and goes down from Medicham's Thunder Punch. With Charles as my last Pokemon, I send him out, hoping that his Fire Fang will hit. Sure enough, it hits, and Medicham goes down. With Keta's Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Keta is amazed, as the way I command my Pokemon has shown him the light. Keta is silent for a minute, and Aelita announces that he has no Pokemon left, and that he is defeated. She announces that I reign victorious, and Keta says that he cannot harbor anymore guilt than he already has, and I have truly shown him the light. He says that I have certainly displayed true kindness and power through my Pokemon, and announces that he is going to undo what has been done. He leaves, and Aelita is shocked, with Keta's spirit disappearing in the middle of it all. She follows him, and Eldest tries to tell her to wait. She follows them, and so do I. I heal my Pokemon, take out Froakie, and head over to the waterfall. However, Keta's spirit stops me, and tells me to look behind the waterfall, as he disappears. I then look beyond the waterfall...

Wait for me, you two! I want to help, too!

Current Stats:

The team leveled up a little bit, and some learned new moves.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 28

Moves: Fire Fang, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 27

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 27

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 28

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Attract

Froakie (Shadow)

Name: Froakie

Level: 13

Moves: Shadow Blitz, Shadow Wave, Shadow Hold, Water Pulse

[Tringus]

Chapter IX: The Carotos Mountain Conspiracy!

I head inside the waterfall, and it takes me to the bottom of a mountain! I find Aelita, who is just as confused as I am, because she has never seen this place here in her whole life. She turns around and notices me, and sees that I found this place just like she did. She tells me that she tried to follow the Sensei, and she saw him disappear behind the waterfall. She followed that path until suddenly she was here. She assumes that Sensei must be up ahead, and asks me if I will help her search for him. I say yes, and she thanks me, knowing that with us together, we can find him. She assumes that this place is not natural in the slightest, and has a feeling that this may end badly for somebody. I wonder who... I follow the left path, and decide to test the Old Rod to see if it can withstand lava. Unfortunately, it won't let me fish with the Old Rod, so I will have to wait until I can find a better rod. I find a Torkoal, and give it a Gourmet Treat, but it just smacks it into a lava pit! I battle it to teach it a lesson, but all I want to do is catch it. It's pretty much the same level as my team! I name it Tortimer, and continue onward.

As we head up the main path, a tentacle sprouts from the ground. It better not start grabbing Aelita... We do not need THAT crap happening here, ESPECIALLY in a burning hot location. Aelita freaks out, and doesn't want anything to do with it, saying that it's horrifying. As we go through the bottom of the mountain, we see more disgusting tentacles and more lava. We eventually find a strange blob with a smiley face, blocking the way to continue. It beeps, and introduces itself as a Security Enhancer Component, but we may call it SEC. It explains that it was placed under the authority of subject: Madelis, and asks us if we are also members of Team Xen. Aelita wonders what Team Xen is, and SEC's voice recognition activates, analyzing our voices. It tells us to hold, and we do. The face disappears, and Aelita is sure that she just screwed ourselves of getting through here without any problems. Sure enough, SEC comes back with angry frown on its face, and alerts that there are intruders. It asks us how could we do this to it, and says that it was about to give us complementary Team Xen pudding. I thought it would give fresh cookies... It says that we anger it, and it's now angry. Aelita politely suggests to it that we get out of its way, but SEC says that it is too late, and already feels threatened. It changes into a more horrifying expression, and says that it is enraged, turning into a strange monster! Aelita is horrified at its appearance, and tells me to watch out.

You feel threatened? Good. Time to shut you down!

Security Drone SEC unleashes a Shadow Tangela, while I send out Noice. Noice confuses Tangela with Supersonic, while Noice still gets knocked out by Tangela's Shadow Rave. I send out Charles, and decide to pelt Tangela with Pokeballs to snag it. However, Tangela snaps out of confusion, and knocks out Charles. I send out Swoop, but fortunately, after a few tries, Tangela finally gets snagged! With Tangela snagged, I win the battle!

SEC goes back to its frown, and starts to malfunction. Once again, it asks me how I could do this to it, and asks if I have no heart. It malfunctions as it calls me a heretic. It blows up, and Aelita honestly tells me that was pretty strange. However, she has never seen a Shadow Pokemon before, and I explain what they are to her. However, she says I can explain the rest later because we have to go find the Sensei. With SEC out of the way, we head through the cave.

We find a few Team Xen grunts who wonder what the heck happened. The other grunt doesn't know, and says that an old guy just came in and kicked her straight in the face. Aelita confirms this to be Keta, and says that he really did come through here. The grunts spot us, and wonder what we're doing here. The other grunt wonders who opened the entrance, and Aelita asks them about the old man that they saw and if he went through here. The female grunt asks us why they would even tell filth like us that, and says that we don't even have any business to be in here. Aelita says that we're gonna have to knock the answer out ourselves, and the grunt backs out, saying that she already got kicked in the face. She tells the other grunt to take care of it, but we defeat him easily. The grunt says that Madelis will be furious with them, and suggests that they skedaddle. The female grunt agrees, as she already leaves. The other grunt follows her, and they never give us an answer. We battle another pair of Xen grunts, and find some stone pillars and a red shard. However, we also see a sign which says this:

First Digit: 2x3-4=2 Basic math.

We head onward, only to be stopped when there appears to be a dead end of lava. Aelita, however, won't give up so easily, and says that we have to find a way around this moat of magma. However, she notices the stalactites hanging on the ceiling, and shows me the shadows. She explains that the shadows indicate the stalactites hanging above us, and says that maybe we can knock those into the lava to create footing for us. We remember the stone pillars, and I literally use Rock Smash myself. THIS IS VENOM'S JOB, NOT MINE. I smash the pillar a couple more times, until all of the stalactites come crashing down. We cross the moat of magma, and find a grunt near a metal door. She threatens us to burn, and battles us. We defeat her easily, though, and go through the door. It takes us to an elevator, and we go to the third floor. We cross the gigantic pool of magma as we smash some pillars and battle some grunts. However, I find another sign which says this:

Third Digit: What is the total amount of Pokemon a trainer can carry? Well that's easy, 6.

I always feel that the grunts are just about the same age as us. I mean, they're normal people too, right? It's sometimes sad to see them on the wrong side.

We smash all three pillars, cross the magma river. We find another SEC, and it scans us. However, this one is smarter, as it knows we are intruders. It then proceeds to battle me.

How many of these things ARE there?

SEC unleashes a Corphish, while I send out Venom. Corphish tries to attack, but it doesn't do as much damage as Venom's Horn Attack. Eventually, Corphish is defeated, and I win the battle!

SEC malfunctions, and asks me how could I do this to it... again. It asks me if I have no heart, and calls me a heretic as it shuts down. It explodes, and we head to the second elevator. We head up to the fourth floor, and find a scientist working a machine. Aelita tells him that we aren't leaving until he gives us some answers. He turns to us, and shrugs us off as if he knew we were coming. However, he has, as he has been watching us on his monitor the whole time. He sees that we are quite competent trainers, and Aelita wonders what he gets from spying on us. He says that he gets a lot more than we think, and asks us if we are looking for the man with the dark hair. Aelita understands what he's saying, and he says that he knows where Keta is, but we're going to have to find him on our own. Aelita wonders why all of them won't tell us, and says that she just needs to know what he's doing in here. The scientist calls her foolish, and asks her if that's what she truly wants. He says he'll have to decline our wishes if that's the case, as he shuts down every elevator that is positioned in this mountain. Needless to say, we are trapped here. Aelita is outraged, and asks him why he's doing this. He explains that he must do what he must to protect the foundation of what they are trying to accomplish.

"If you truly believe your ideals are strongest, then you must find your own path. That is the only way to truly and fully accomplish anything."

Aelita begrudgingly accepts what we have to do, and says that we will find a way out of this, and we'll show him that our ideals are strongest. She vows that we won't stop until we crush each and everyone of them here, and she promises him that. The scientist doesn't care, and says that we're wasting our time. He tells us to find our own way, and we do. We find another sign, and it says this:

Second Digit: 5x5-20=5 Again, REALLY basic math.

However, this won't help us out of this. Since both elevators are offline, we have no choice but to destroy the machine. We find another pillar, and I smash it a few times. After the last rock hits it, it crashes, and the machine blows up, destroying it. The scientist, instead of being outraged, is actually impressed, and applauds us, telling us that the elevators should be up and running again. He tells us that our ideals truly shined through, and Aelita tells me to keep going. The scientist wishes us good luck, as we head to the fifth floor.

Okay, that was extremely cheesy as heck. We didn't need the truth and ideals stuff from Black and White/Black and White 2, but since this IS basically after Black and White 2, I guess that works. At least the scientist didn't have overpowered Pokemon to use against us...

We head to the fifth floor, and there seems to be no grunts anywhere, or smash-able pillars. However, we see another sign, and it says this:

Last Digit: 72347372472347432773772347423743274737 Which number was repeated most? That's easy. 7.

We find another SEC, but this time, SEC is willing to let us pass... if we give it the password.

Hmm... In order, but not by when we saw the signs, it would be 2567.

SEC says that is correct, but says we may leave now. it asks us what does it mean this is unfair, and says life is unfair. Words to live by. SEC asks us if we want to see the manager, but says that it IS the manager. I talk to it again, and tells me to stop talking to it, frowning at us. I continue pestering it, and it tells us to leave. It gets angry, and says that it cannot take it anymore, initiating battle mode.

This will be the LAST TIME I face you, you idiotic security system!

SEC unleashes a Shadow Toxicroak that doesn't even look like a Shadow Pokemon at all, while I send out Venom. Unfortunately, Venom goes down from Toxicroak's Shadow Blitz, and so does Noice when I send him out. I send out Charles, and when the field burns Toxicroak and when it hurts itself from Hyper Mode too much, I throw a Pokeball at it. Fortunately, it snags Toxicroak, and with Toxicroak snagged, I win the battle!

SEC malfunctions, and repeats its defeat sentence one more time. It calls me a heretic as it blows up. We head inside the elevator, and it takes us to the Xen Lab. This must be where Team Xen has their hideout in Sheridan Village! We take a peek from the boxes, and see Madelis talking to three scientists. She asks them how her Shadow Pokemon is coming along, and the lead scientist says that it is coming along quite marvelously. He tells her that it should be done in a few minutes, but then notices us behind Madelis. Madelis is enraged, and says that if they think she's going to fall for a trick like that... However, she turns around, and spots us. She asks us how we got past SEC, and Aelita tells her that getting past those drones were no problem. She demands that Madelis tells us where Keta is, and Madelis completely ignores her, as she remembers me as the runt from Jenner's lab. Yes, Aelita, she totally ignored you. Madelis admits that I'm the last person she would have expected to appear here, and is impressed nonetheless. However, she says that this is as far as I go, as she tells the scientists to hold us up for a bit while she goes to get the stage ready. Oh, is she going to give us a show? Too bad. When we're done with these scientists, we'll have to shut her down! She retreats, and we battle the lead scientist. After we beat him, he tells the other two to block the entrance to the next room, and they go do that. The scientist laughs, and says good luck, and we look around. We see an innocent Mincinno, Numel, and a Sharpedo trapped in cages, getting their energy drained by the awful machines. These scientists are doing awful experiments on these poor Pokemon! From draining their energy to altering their DNA... We defeat the scientists blocking the entrance to the next room, and head into the next room.

When we head to the next room, we find a journal, and read it...

Day 1, Month XX "My efforts in creating the alternate colored Pokemon has utterly failed. What has resulted in a promising experiment, has turned Pokemon into purple beasts. I have to get things back on track, otherwise She won't be happy..." Who is this She people keep talking about? Madame X? Who?

Day 31, Month XO "These beasts that were created have actually shown some promise. They hold no weaknesses, and can perform moves infinitely. This actually might show some progress in our efforts. I hope She will be happy..." Hmm... Melia was always focused on alternate colored Pokemon, right? I wonder...

Day 83, Month OX "I have named these type of Pokemon, Shadow Pokemon. I have decided to create the ultimate Shadow Pokemon. Things are finally starting to get interesting around here..." I wonder who's journal this belongs to...

Unfortunately, the rest of the pages are torn out. We talk to some of the scientists, and learn that this volcano is indeed man-made. In a way, it was natural, but a legendary Pokemon called Volcanion was forced to create the lava pools. Team Xen has a legendary Pokemon already? Sure enough, I head down to the center of the room, and I see Volcanion trapped in a pool of lava by machines. Aelita is oblivious of this, and wonders what I'm staring at. We see a Mew statue blocking a door, and Aelita sees a trap door beneath it. She says that there's probably a switch to lower the statue beneath the floor, and we go look for it. We head to the room below the blocked room, and see two scientists frustrated that they can't turn a Pokemon into a Shadow Pokemon. The scientist kicks the door, and tells Daliah to try putting up the Y variable up by 10% and then try again. She obeys, and tries again. However, it fails, and the scientist curses at the failure. He wonders why this Pokemon is the only Pokemon that won't turn into a Shadow Pokemon, and a Mime Jr. steps out of the machine. He curses at it, and calls it worthless. The scientist then starts to beat up the poor Pokemon! Aelita says that we have to help the poor Pokemon, and we do. I talk to the Mime Jr., and it speaks to me...

"Please help me... I don't know how much longer I can take this torture... So much pain..."

I take Mime Jr. with me, and I don't name it because Mr. Mime goes great with Mr. Vine. The angry scientist doesn't care if I took Mime Jr. with me, and bets that it will only hinder me anyway. Daliah then wonders if Mime Jr. can't be shadowfied because of its typing. However, she doubts it because they have shadowfied plenty of Psychic types before. However, she wonders if Mime Jr. is connected to a different type as well... Fairy type. Fairy types can't be shadowfied! Then explain Shadow Ralts and Shadow Mr. Mime in Pokemon XD. Explain Shadow Togepi and Shadow Snubull in XD! I battle the scientists in the main room, and head to the bottom floor of the center. I find a bunch of cages and a scientist. The scientist says that she honestly has no problem that I'm running around stealing their Shadow Pokemon because in a way, I'm bringing out their inner power, which is what they wanted anyways. We find a Mew statue, but the switch is locked behind glass, which means we have to hit another switch first.

We head to the doorway, and find a hall with some cages. However, instead of a Pokemon trapped in one of them, it is actually Eli! Sharon is outside of the cage, disappointed in Eli's stupidity. Eli asks me to help him, and Sharon wonders what she's going to do with Eli. Eli asks "Shardon" for help, and Sharon just sighs. She notices me, and says that she'd try to stop me right now, but as I can see, she has a bigger problem. So she'll talk to me later. I battle two scientists, and one of them has grass types and is named Fern... I wonder if he's the father of somebody that I used to know in Unova... We beat Fern and his assistant, and push the switch on the Mew statue. Unfortunately, this only causes the other Mew Statue to go down halfway, but we hit the switch on the one below, and it goes down all the way. We try to explore the other room with red tiles, but unfortunately we are blocked off by scientists, so we have no choice but to continue onward.

We head into the room that was previously blocked off by the Mew Statue, and Aelita says that it's time to settle this. Aelita heads onward, and so do I, and we stand face to face with Madelis. She says that it's so nice of both of us to show up here today, and frankly, she's had fun toying with me. However, she thinks our little game needs to end promptly. Of course... with your defeat. She says that as much as she doesn't want to, she must do it. She tells us to feast our eyes, as we're about to see history before our very own eyes. She turns to face us, and says that it's time I've been punished for going this far. She tells the scientist to activate the Shadowfication Machine, and she does. It activates properly, and we hear a cry that sounds like Mewtwo...

Oh no... Shadow Mewtwo is unleashed!

Madelis asks us if it's beautiful, and introduces Mewtwo as the very first ultimate Shadow Pokemon, right before our very own eyes. She says that it is her own beautiful creation, and Aelita wonders what that purple glow is. Madelis explains that it is the collaboration of many great minds, and that because of all the scientists, and herself, they were able to create the most powerful Shadow Pokemon to date. However, she doesn't think it's 100% complete because it has some things that need to be reconfigured and stuff. She says that it's nothing we should really be worried about because finished or incomplete, it has the power of destroying cities! She corrects herself, and says that it can destroy entire regions! She says that it will be a great addition to their rosters, and Aelita says that this isn't right. She asks Madelis if they have any guilt of what they're doing, and says that they're harming innocent Pokemon in the process of changing the genetic code. She says that Shadow Pokemon aren't meant to exist, and Madelis tells her to shut her mouth because she doesn't have a clue of what she's saying. She tells her that if she's ignorant about the facts, then she suggests Aelita keeps her little prissy mouth shut. Sure enough, Aelita actually shuts up. Bravo, Madelis, you actually shut her up. I'm actually surprised she didn't fight back, but obeyed! Madelis says that she's had enough of this pointless banter, so she orders Mewtwo to prepare itself. Mewtwo shakes the room with its overwhelming power, and Aelita is scared. She knows that Keta is in here somewhere, but this doesn't look very good for us. She says that we should cut our losses, and get out of here.

I'm going to stay and fight. I'm not leaving until we have Keta with us!

Aelita agrees, and decides to stay. Madelis is touched that I won't give up until I've breathed my last breath, and says that I'd be happy to know that she's offering to take that breath away from me immediately. She announces that it's time, the time that we've all been waiting for. However, she does something first before we start. She says that she can't have me snagging their precious Mewtwo, and so she disables the snagging capabilities in my Pokeballs! She tells Mewtwo that it's time to show us its beautiful power. As Mewtwo cries, the battle begins.

Much like the Dimensional Gyarados, I'm probably going to lose this one. At least I'll go down trying!

Xen Operative Madelis unleashes Shadow Mewtwo, while I send out Noice. Mewtwo knocks out Noice with Shadow Fire, so I send out Mime Jr., who unfortunately gets knocked out by Mewtwo's Shadow Blast. I send out Venom, who gets knocked out by Shadow Chill. I send out Froakie, who gets knocked out by Shadow Bolt. I send out Swoop, who gets knocked out by Shadow Blast. I finally send out Charles, who goes down from Shadow Bolt. With all of my Pokemon defeated, I lose this impossible fight. I really wanted to catch this thing... Screw you, Madelis!

Aelita tells me that if we don't do something, we're done for. Madelis says that this is quite fitting, as she asks me if I really thought I could meddle with their plans. She tells me that I have no idea what I've gotten myself into, and gleefully says that my mother will be glad to know that she destroyed me here and now. Don't you DARE bring my mother into this! Aelita wonders what's wrong with me, and Madelis cruelly asks if it upsets me or intrigues me, and even asks if I wanted to forget her because I wanted to play hero. She tells me that she knows where my mother is, and says that it's a shame that I won't ever be able to see her again. She says this because this is where she wipes me off the face of the earth. She says goodbye to me and Aelita as she orders Mewtwo to unleash Shadow Blast.

This is the end... Or not...

Keta says that he will not allow this to continue, and jumps in front of us! Madelis is surprised to see him, and asks him what he's doing here. Keta says that he's had enough of all of this, as he does not care about what happens to him, or to this place. All he knows is that he has given into his resolve... He refuses to obey the likes of Madelis any longer, and and he pushes Mewtwo to the machine! His spirit appears right next to Mewtwo to watch, and Madelis wonders what the heck he's doing. She says that this wasn't part of their pact, and that he's disobeying Madame X. She demands him to let go of Mewtwo, and asks him if he really thinks he can withstand its power. Keta says he does not, but he knows that his life ends here and now. However, he says that there is hope for us. He tells me and Aelita that he will hold off Mewtwo for now. Obviously he won't be able to hold it for long, but he can buy us enough time to destroy their power source. He says we can do it, because he believes in us. Aelita tries to fight it, and says that she won't leave him here, and says that we can defeat them together. Keta yells at her, and tells her to do as he says. Madelis says as if she would ever let us walk out of this room, and says that she'll handle both of us if she must. However, Keta sends out his Medicham, who knocks her back into the wall! As Medicham corners Madelis, Keta tells Aelita to go now, and his spirit disappears. Aelita tells me that we have to go because we don't have much time, and so she goes. Keta tells me to go, too, and so I follow Aelita.

"Keta, you're a fool."

In the other room, Aelita tells me that she doesn't know what to think of this situation. In any case, we have to shut off that generator that Keta mentioned. Aelita says that she'll go up ahead and scope out the area. She leaves, and I follow. I meet her up ahead, and heal my Pokemon. We head into the generator room, and see a Dimensional Rift over a pool of magma surrounded by red tiles. The Dimensional Rift makes a different sound, and Aelita wonders what on earth that thing is. I tell her that it is a Dimensional Rift, and she still doesn't understand. However, what she does understand is that Dimensional Rift is powering the lab, so now we're gonna get rid of it. The portal roars, and grows bigger. Aelita is scared, but then it comes, and the battle begins.

Volcanion! We're here to save you! Don't worry!

The Dimensional Rift Volcanion unleashes itself, and I send out Noice. Volcanion's Demon Stone reacts to the Dimensional Rift's Mega Ring, and mega evolves into [D] Volcanion. Noice strikes with Air Cutter, while Volcanion attacks with Magnet Bomb and Lock-On. However, after a few more Air Cutters, Volcanion goes down. With Volcanion defeated, I win the battle!

The Dimensional Rift disappears, and Aelita says that the power source is down. However, there's no change in lighting, according to her. She wonders if that thing was only powering half of the lab, and says that there's maybe a second generator somewhere. She heads down to a door, and says we should head down the corridor. She asks me if I'm ready to move forward, and I say yes. She's still shocked that Keta was working for Team Xen, and refuses to believe it. We head down the corridor, and the room shakes every few steps, and they get worse each time. Aelita sees that these are explosions, and wonders if it's Keta fighting Madelis and Mewtwo. We then make it to the room with the other generator.

When we head into the room, we see a computer, and Aelita assumes that it has something to do with the second power source. She turns it on, and says that this is definitely the second generator like she theorized. However, we need a code in order to neutralize it. However, like her friends used to say...

"Ain't no one got time fo' dat."

She wants to cause some damage, and sends out Hawlucha to wreck the machine with a mighty Karate Chop. Unfortunately, it's no use, as these machines are that sturdy that they can't be destroyed by Hawlucha's attack. Madelis arrives to confirm this, and explains that these are incredibly expensive, high quality machinery. She reveals that they did foresee intrusion and raids to destroy or steal their equipment. She says that they made them virtually indestructible by average Pokemon means. Aelita wonders where Keta is, and Madelis reveals that she had to make Shadow Mewtwo dispose of him, just like the trash that he was. Aelita is shocked, and Madelis tells her that her honest concern happened to intrigue her for a bit. It intrigued her so much, that she thought to herself, why would anyone care so much for an old man like Keta. She reveals that she realized that only spawn of the old coot could ever love such a despicable person. She asks Aelita if that spawn is her, and makes a little nursery rhyme.

"Mary had a little lamb~... and her name was Aelita!"

Aelita snaps, and says that Sensei... her father... told her that separating herself from him would always be best. It's because he was affiliated with the likes of Team Xen! She finally understands why he shoved her away his whole life, and it's because he was trying to protect her! Madelis is confused, and asks what he could possibly gain for protecting such a weak hearted girl. She orders Mewtwo to get Hawlucha away from the machine, and Mewtwo comes down from above, smacking Hawlucha away. Aelita is horrified, and Madelis asks us if we see what she did there. Fowl, foul, whatever! She says that she cracks herself up with her own jokes, it's pitiful. Pitiful indeed. So pitiful, you're despicable. Aelita returns her Hawlucha to its Pokeball, and Madelis orders Mewtwo to come to her this instant. Mewtwo comes to her, and she tells us that we will both perish to Mewtwo's attacks.

Now this looks like the end...

However, Crescent arrives unseen, and says that she doesn't believe that will truly happen. Madelis wonders who said that, and Crescent reveals herself in front of our own eyes. Madelis is shocked, and Crescent says what's a cutscene without Crescent coming to save the day. Aelita wonders what she means by cutscene, and Crescent tells us not to mind what she says, for she assures us that speaks nonsense. She says that it's time she stops this madness from going on, and Madelis says that it's too bad that she decided to just waltz in here. She reveals that they planned her capture and everything, and it was going to be magnificent. She says that Crescent coming here means that she's going to hit two birds with one stone, but Crescent has another idea... She tells Gothitelle to take care of the bigger problem at hand. Gothitelle appears behind us by the second generator, and it hacks through the generator, disengaging it. Crescent announces that it has been disengaged, and Madelis is furious. She tells Mewtwo to crack her skull in two, but not before Crescent does something to free Mewtwo from Madelis's control. She asks Mewtwo if it can hear her, and tells it to let loose its harnessed soul, and release its anguish. She says that she's here for it now, and Mewtwo speaks. We are all shocked, and Crescent giggles.

"I- I shall be... controlled no more!" Gone with the wind, at its finest.

Madelis goes behind Mewtwo's ear, telling it not to betray her, and to learn who its master is. She orders her to destroy us at once, but it just smacks her to a machine, saying that it is not hers to have. Madelis is shocked, and Mewtwo grabs ahold of her. Mewtwo is love, Mewtwo is life~ She tells it to let go of her this instant, and it demands her to tell it what she has done to its body. Crescent turns to us, and says that things are getting quite tense around here. She says that us being here is quite problematic, and says that she can't get the famous heroes of Carotos Mountain harmed, and I walk up to her demanding for answers. She backs away, telling me not to fear, for she knows what it is that I want to ask her. She says that there will be a time and place for it, but not now. I don't need your lecture, Professor Oak! I want answers now! Or when we get rid of Madelis and purify Mewtwo. She asks if those words just echo in my head, and asks Gothitelle if it would be so kind as to escorting us out of this lab. She says that they have a lot of work to do here, and she intends to finish the job right this time. Gothitelle teleports us, and Crescent says that gets rid of half the problem. However, they now have to deal with the bigger problem at hand. Gothitelle starts to giggle, and Crescent asks it what's so funny. However, she realizes what happened, and hopes that it didn't play with our lives.

Somewhere away from Carotos Mountain...

I see a room with three people, and one of them is awfully familiar to the woman who attacked S.S. Oceana. The one on the left turns to her, and asks Nastasia what the heck is going on. He says that they've been losing assets left and right ever since the attack on the S.S. Oceana, one of them being the most important, Melia. He wonders what they're supposed to do now that they've lost something so incredibly vital. He also adds that Zetta has been captured by Crescent, and Zetta is the only one capable of creating the Dimensional Rifts. The man on the right tells him, Geara, to calm himself. She says that there's no need to shout, and they can all hear him. Geara freaks out, and says that he's pretty much in the okay to shout as loud as he can because that worthless trash Madelis failed her mission as well. It seems that he and her don't get along very well... He says that he's not exactly sure why they're so calm about this, and speaking of trash, Madelis slowly walks in the room, telling him to shut up. She says that she could hear his banter from the other room, and he doesn't think she's in the right spot to tell him to shut up. Nastasia tells Geara to shut up, and he apologizes. Nastasia tells Madelis that it's great to see her finally show her face after her oh-so horrible defeat. She asks her if she would care to give them all some insight, and Madelis says that she needs a drink, and that's their insight. The other man, apparently named Neved, thinks that it would be smarter if she answered Nastasia. Madelis sighs, and says that if they really want to know what happened... Geara interrupts, saying that they don't, but Madelis continues. She says that she got caught up with a traitor, and Nastasia is surprised to see that a traitor is amongst them. However, Madelis says that there WAS a traitor, but she disposed of him. She explains that Keta tried to retaliate against her back at the lab. Geara sees that she let an old man get the best of her, and laughs. However, Madelis says that she obviously did not, and says that after she disposed of him, she went after the children. Then when she finally cornered them, they have done too much damage to the system already. Nastasia asks if she's telling her that children are responsible for her failure, and Madelis defends herself by saying not completely. She explains that Crescent showed up after she almost got rid of them, and Nastasia knows who Crescent is. She asks what of the children, and says that they must have a power if they were able to take out a Dimensional Rift. Madelis identifies the children as Trevo (Me), and Aelita. Nastasia is surprised, and says that they should dispose of them accordingly. Madelis says that they're wretched children, and they definitely have power on their hands. She says that they should be careful, and plot their movements. Geara is against that, and asks Nastasia if he can handle them because he's bored being stuck here in this room all the time anyways. Nastasia allows him to go right ahead, but says that they can't afford to anger Madame X any further. However, I teleport in the room, and everybody's surprised. Madelis quickly identifies me to the others, and Nastasia remembers me from the attack on S.S. Oceana. Geara tries to catch me, but in a second, I teleport out of there.

Why was I teleported there in the first place? Was that their main hideout?

I teleport back to Sheridan Village, and Aelita and the Eldest notice me. She's so glad I'm alright, and asks me where I've been. She says that she hasn't seen me since what happened up in Carotos Mountain... And that was about a week ago... A week ago?! Did I time travel or something? I tell her it's only been a few minutes, but she doesn't believe me. She says that it's definitely been a week since she last saw me, and wonders if Gothitelle had something to do with it. She shrugs it off, and says that what matters is that I'm okay because she thought something happened to me. She gets serious about what Madelis said, but says that it doesn't matter. She knows that her father did some horrible things, but she has forgiven him, and I should too. Honestly, he wasn't that bad to me. I already forgave him a long time ago. She says that he saved our lives, but I saved her life back there too, and if she went in there alone, she doesn't know what would have happened. To return the favor, she took the liberty of researching those Shadow Pokemon we saw inside the mountain. She says that the Eldest and her talked about it, and they have some information that might interest me. We speak to the Eldest, who's heard of my efforts in Carotos Mountain, and she thanks me for them. But this is of another matter. She explains that Shadow Pokemon have returned.

"I've once heard of a region far from here had trouble with Shadow Pokemon. Three brave heroes stepped up to the plate, and saved the region from the evil of Shadow Pokemon. Their efforts in purifying Shadow Pokemon have not been spread throughout the world."

However, she says she has something that may be of use. She gives me a Time Flute, and says that it has the power to open up any Pokemon's heart. However, opening up their heart is only the beginning of the process, and we must go and perform the purification ceremony. She and Aelita head beyond the Pokemon Center, and we find a tree blocking a cave. However, the Eldest reveals that there is a secret that only Keta and she know about in this village. She tells me to observe, as she opens the way.

"Ager subcinctus."

The tree disappears, and she laughs, assuming that we thought she was all washed up. She tells me that through this small cavern lies a sacred shrine where Pokemon are at one with nature. She says that she shall meet us both inside, and heads inside the cave. Aelita walks to me, and says that she's lived here all her life, and never knew about this place. We head inside, and when I get out of the cave, I find a forest which has a path similar to a familiar sacred sword in some woods, if you get my drift. This place is beautiful! I find Aelita and the Eldest at a shrine, and the Eldest tells me that this is the sacred forest that she mentioned before. She says I can come here anytime, and purify my Shadow Pokemon here. Including that, she has also been notified that the purification chamber is now online in Pokemon Centers. She says I can come anytime, and there's a Pokemon that can be purified! I check my team, and Froakie can be purified. Aelita is so happy. She says that now when I snag- but then she remembers that Madelis did something to my snag machine before we fought Shadow Mewtwo. She wonders what we're going to do, and asks if I can fix it. I tell her that the one who made it isn't around anymore, and wonders what the heck we're going to do now. The Eldest steps in, and suggests that there's a gym leader named Saki who lives on the other half of Aevium. She explains that Saki is quite handy with mechanical stuff such as my snag machine. However, she heard that Saki was taking a visit to Akuwa Town up north. She says that if I take the west gate from Sheridan, and go through Route 3, I'll reach a town called Goldenleaf. Aelita is excited, but the Eldest tries to warn her they are- Aelita says that she has no need to worry, as she has things under control. She says that she's going to make her way over there right now, and says that she would travel with me, but she thinks traveling on her own will make herself stronger. She says that by doing that, she can help me out like she did in Carotos. Okay, her Hawlucha was strong as it is, like DANG. Those Aerial Aces actually KILLED. What did my Pokemon do? They didn't do jack, which means I need to train, okay? She says goodbye to us, and leaves.

The Eldest turns to me, and says that she must warn me about Goldenleaf Town. She tells me that apparently something tragic happened there a few years ago, and they aren't too keen with outsiders. She's heard horror stories with tourists, and tells me to just be safe and look after Aelita. At this time, I purify Froakie, who learns Bounce, X-Scissor, and Quick Attack, and levels up to 31! It's funny, because I caught it at level 13! However, it also evolves into... Frogadier! I name it Grimsley, and head back to Sheridan Village.

As I head back to Sheridan Village, Keta's spirit appears in front of me, telling me to go to Amethyst Grotto. It disappears, and I follow it.

What does Keta want? Does he have more information about Team Xen to share? Time to head to Amethyst Grotto to find out!

Current Stats:

The team leveled up a quite a bit, and Froakie has been purified and been rechristened into a Frogadier named Grimsley. The team has also learned some new moves as well. I honestly didn't expect Grimsley to level up to 31! I guess that's what I get for giving him an Exp. Share. He's the second in my team now, because honestly, Venom's not doing so well. And HOLY CRAP, this chapter is long! It hasn't even gotten to ten chapters, and it's already gotten such a long chapter! I guess that's what I get for writing chapters involving terrorist organizations.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 29

Moves: Fire Fang, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Frogadier

Name: Grimsley

Level: 31

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Quick Attack, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 29

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 29

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

[Tringus]

Chapter X: Keta's Fighting Spirit Beyond The Grave!

After dealing with Team Xen at Carotos Mountain and purifying Froakie into the newly reborn Grimsley, I head to Amethyst Cave, and go to Amethyst Grotto, where I find Keta's spirit. With Grimsley purified, I'll be able to use him. However, he won't obey since he went over one level. Nonetheless, I am prepared. I speak to Keta, and he says that I have done well. He says that I have shown my power through my kindness toward my Pokemon, and he sees that I have not received my badge, so he asks one more favor of me. He asks that I spar with a withered out spirit such as him, and says that if I win, he shall supply me with the badge he was supposed to give me. I get into position, and we prepare for battle as he tells me to soothe his soul with this battle. The stage appears, and he tells me to soothe his soul again. With that said (Twice), the battle begins.

Keta, I'll make sure this is a worthy last battle for you. I shall soothe your soul!

Revenant Keta sends out Primeape, while I send out Tortimer. Tortimer Curses himself while Primeape is Thrashing itself all over the place. They do know how to party... Eventually, Primeape gets confused, and starts hitting itself, while I heal Tortimer with some Fresh Water. Primeape snaps out of confusion and uses Toxic, but I heal Tortimer with an Antidote. Once Tortimer is all buffed out from Cursing at himself, he rams into Primeape with Flame Wheel, knocking it out. Keta sends out Hitmontop, and it tries using Dig. However, Dig is pretty much useless now, and so Tortimer rams itself into Hitmontop with Flame Wheel, burning it down. Keta sends out Pangoro, and just when I think Pangoro is going to suffer the same fiery fate, it survives by an inch of its life. Keta heals it with a Super Potion, but is that REALLY going to do anything? It doesn't, because Tortimer just does it again, and this time, it knocks out Pangoro. Keta sends out Hawlucha, and Tortimer actually burns Hawlucha to the ground with Flame Wheel. Sure, Keta heals it with a Super Potion, but it's burned. Another one knocks it down, and Keta sends out Scrafty. However, Scrafty actually tries making Tortimer miss with Sand Attack. Sure enough, it works, as Tortimer keeps missing Scrafty. However, Scrafty tries to High Jump Kick Tortimer, but misses, severely hurting itself. Really? You KNOW That's not going to do much damage since Tortimer is all buffed out. Just when it hurts itself, THAT'S when Flame Wheel actually hits. Keta sends out Sawk as his last Pokemon, and all it does is Bulk Up. Tortimer strikes with Flame Wheel, and leaves a burn. While Sawk is burning away, Tortimer manages to hit Sawk a second time, and Sawk gets knocked out by the impact. With all of Keta's Pokemon defeated in an epic fiery sweep, I win the battle!

Keta says that I have shown him my fullest potential, and says that his soul is definitely at ease. The battlefield disappears, and he thanks me for everything that I have done. He gives me the Diamond Punch Badge as a reward, and says that it is time for his soul to finally rest. Hid bids me goodbye, and tells me to watch over his daughter as he disappears. He leaves behind TM08 Bulk Up, and just when I leave, a statue of Keta appears on the statue space between the two Arceus statues! It also tells me that 1/5 statues has been completed. I read the Arceus Statues, and it says this:

"When the lost souls return here, their statues will be placed. Only when all the statues return is when the path shall be open."

I take a look at the inscriptions behind Keta's statue, and it says this:

"For the five souls who contribute thy gain, a passageway open thy shame."

With all of that said, I leave Amethyst Grotto, and head back to Sheridan Village.

Keta is right! Arceus must lie underneath Amethyst Grotto, and to get to him, five souls must be brought to Amethyst Grotto! Keta is one of them, but who are the rest? I'll have to find out as I travel...

Current Stats:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Tuuuurrrtles, TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TUUUURRRTLES, TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TUUUURRRTLES, Heroes in a half-shell... TURTLE POWER!!! DANG, when I said Torkoal was strong, IT WAS STRONG. Tortimer single-handedly defeated six fighting types without breaking a sweat. I didn't expect it to work, but now Tortimer is an honorary member of the team. It was actually more useful than ANY OF THE OTHERS in this fight. This chapter is also perhaps one of my shorter ones, which is why I didn't make any new chapters for a couple of days. That, and I was replaying Oblivion (Which I am better at now that I have 100% Chameleon...). I'll try making more newchapters soon, but if they're slow, it's most likely because I'm playing Oblivion again.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 30

Moves: Fire Fang, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Frogadier

Name: Grimsley

Level: 31

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Quick Attack, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 29

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 29

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 29

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Lava Plume, Body Slam

[Tringus]

Chapter XI: The Wonderful Helpful Help Center At Sheridan Village!

After defeating Keta's spirit for my second badge, I head back to Sheridan Village. The guard blocking the gate to Route 3 is gone, but I choose not to head onward. Instead, it's time to go to Sheridan Village's Help Center! I speak to the people to see if they are mourning Keta's death, and one even says that she will become one nature if it means pleasing Sensei. Ummmm... Keta's dead, and what on earth do you mean by pleasing him? The others do their regular routines to honor his death, and with that said, I head down to the Help Center.

Like last time, I start from top to bottom. The first request I do has me investigating the sides of five fountains from Oceana Pier to Sheridan. The first fountain I check is the one in front of the Help Center. However, nothing seems to be wrong in particular. I head to Gearen City, but can't seem to see if there's anything wrong with the fountains there. I head to Oceana Pier, and check the left and right fountains at the entrance. I head back to Gearen City, and try again, and I check near the Help Center. However, as I check the last one, a Carvanha appears! I catch it, and see that it was what was worrying the client. With that problem solved, I have a new member in my team, and I have a reward when I get back to Sheridan Village's Help Center. However, before I head back, I take the time in Gearen City to go to the Violet Apartments and visit a girl who has a Lillipup who is suffering. She says that it hates being trapped in a stuffy city like Gearen, and she sees that I have the Poison Heart Badge, and says that I'll be good for her Lillipup. She asks if I will take it, and I oblige. How can I say no to free Pokemon? On my way back to Sheridan Village, I grab an Aipom from the headbuttable trees. With that done, I head through Amethyst Cave, and head back to Sheridan Village's Help Center. From this, I manage to get a Water Stone and a Good Rod!

The second request I do has me chasing someone in Sheridan Village who keeps stealing people's money. I have to chase and prosecute him, so I have no time to lose! I find the criminal near the gate to Route 3, but he refuses to give the money back. He says that I have to find him first, and gives me the hint that he'll be a place I haven't been at for a while. If you're talking about Oceana Pier, I was just there! I head all the way back there, and sure enough, I find him there near a warehouse. He admits that he didn't expect me to find him so fast, and so he resorts to brute force by battling me. However, he only has one Smeargle, which I quickly defeat with Venom's Double Kicks. He admits that I'm too tough for him, and he gives in. Thankfully, this takes me all the way back to Sheridan Village's Help Center without having to go all the way back by myself. From this, I get a Leaf Stone and some money.

The third request I do has me trading an Aipom for some girl's Pokemon, and she'll be down by the waterfall and small cliffs in Sheridan City. Don't you mean Sheridan Village? This is why I grabbed an Aipom from Route 2 because I knew this was coming! I go to the waterfall, and find the girl. She tells me that she's been looking for a specific Pokemon called Aipom. She says that I can find Aipom in Route 2 by headbutting trees, but she doesn't have any Pokemon with Headbutt. Evolve a Bidoof and level it up to 18! She says that they're also extremely rare, and doubts that she'll ever find one, knowing her luck. I can agree with you on that! That thing took forever to find! Heck, I still need to catch a Pineco AND a Shuckle! She tells me to come back when I find one, and I show her my Aipom named Aipain, because it literally is a pain to catch. I send it to her, and she sends me a Pancham named IronFist! She thanks me, and leaves. I head back to the Help Center, and get a Black Belt as a reward!

The fourth request I do has me looking for a really rare Pokemon on Route 2 that I can only see in the morning. Before I leave to do that, I heal my Pokemon and purify Bonsly, who I name Banzai. I set the time for morning, head through Amethyst Cave, and dash through Route 2 until I see a Teddiursa near the way back to Gearen City! This must be the rare Pokemon that was mentioned! It attacks me, but I catch it anyway. I name him Ted, and head back to the Help Center where I am rewarded with money.

The last request I do has me battling Adrian again, and she wants to meet me at the waterfall in Sheridan Village. I set my Pokemon up, and then head over to the waterfall to talk to Adrian. She remembers me from when I accepted her last challenge, and she says that I know the drill.

Yes I do, so let's get to it!

Adrian sends out Helioptile, while I send out Shawn, my Carvanha. Helioptile nearly knocks out Shawn with Thunder Shock, but Shawn survives and confuses Helioptile with Swagger. With a Speed Boost, Shawn strikes with Assurance, and Helioptile hits itself, knocking itself out. Adrian sends out Vivillon, and Shawn uses Ice Fang. However, Vivillon survives, and knocks out Shawn with Draining Kiss. I send out Swoop to finish the job with Air Cutter, and he indeed finishes the job. Adrian sends out Vulpix, while I send out Venom, who gets burned from Vulpix's Will-O-Wisp after striking with Double Kick. However, Venom manages to poison Vulpix with Poison Sting, and repeatedly shoots Poison Stings at it. However, as the sunlight fades, both Venom AND Vulpix go down from their status ailments! I send out IronFist, who is still training, as Adrian sends out Hawlucha. I switch IronFist back for Swoop, and Hawlucha goes down after two Confusions. I send out IronFist again, and switch to Charles as she sends out Jolteon and paralyzes Charles with Thunder Wave. This doesn't stop Charles, however, as he knocks Jolteon down with two Dragon Rages while it tries to knock Charles down with Shadow Ball and Quick Attack. I send out IronFist, and Adrian sends out Mightyena, who I thought IronFist could stand a chance against. IronFist Karate Chops Mightyena with a critical hit, but unfortunately goes down from Mightyena's Headbutts. I send out Grimsley, and he knocks out Mightyena with X-Scissor. With all of Adrian's Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Adrian says that she needs a little bit more work, but says I'm strong, and thanks me for battling her. She says that she left the reward back at the Help Center, and says that she seriously needs to work on her battling skills. I heal my Pokemon, and head for the Help Center, where I am rewarded with money and a Spearow, which I name Jack Spearow. With all of the errands done, I leave.

However, I notice that the disrespectful Makuhita is gone, and so I head inside. I find a shady man, who tells me that the owners of this house fight so much, they don't even come home, which is why he moved in and set up shop. However, he sells me goods that can purify my Pokemon. Why buy this stuff, when I can use the Purify Center which is fast and easy? With that said, I leave and head for Route 3.

Goldenleaf Town, here I come!

Current Stats:

There are a couple new Pokemon in the team, and they are both Dark types! Shawn the Carvanha, and IronFist the Pancham!

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 31

Moves: Fire Fang, Growl, Ember, Dragon Rage

Frogadier

Name: Grimsley

Level: 31

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Quick Attack, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 29

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 29

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 29

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Lava Plume, Body Slam

Carvanha

Name: Shawn

Level: 25

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pancham

Name: IronFist

Level: 22

Moves: Arm Thrust, Work Up, Karate Chop, Slash

[Tringus]

Chapter XII: The Road To Goldenleaf Town, The Beautiful Corta Forest, The Groovy Disco-Dancing Rorrim B., And Ren's Desperate Measures!

After getting many rewards from Sheridan Village's Help Center, I finally head to Route 3. However, as soon as I step out of the gate, I find Amaria in front of me! She turns around and sees me, and says that she hasn't seen me since our battle Jenner's Lab. She asks me if I heard that he and his daughter are currently reported missing. He's not her dad! Somebody else is! She sees that I have two badges already, and is proud to say that she knew she saw potential in me. However, I know that she's a scout for the Aevium League, and she says that the only way to see if I'm good is by battling me herself. She says that she would let me heal, but being a trainer requires me to be ready at any moment. With that said, the battle begins.

Well ready or not, here I come!

Amaria sends out Staryu, while I send out Shawn. Shawn strikes with Assurance, while Staryu attacks with Shadow Ball and a new move called Reflect Type, which changes the user's type to match the opponents. However, that doesn't do much, since Shawn knocks out Staryu with Ice Fang. Amaria sends out Ampharos, while Shawn confuses it with Swagger. Ampharos hurts itself, but manages to shock Shawn with Thunderbolt after Shawn Screeches at it. Shawn gets knocked out, so I send out IronFist, then Charles. Ampharos then hurts itself, leaving Charles time to knock it down with a critical hit Fire Fang. Amaria sends out Snowrunt, while I repeat my tactics of switching out Charles with IronFist and back to Charles. After enduring a few attacks, Charles burns Snorunt down with two Embers. Amaria sends out Braixen, while I send out IronFist, then Grimsley. Grimsley suffers from a critical hit Flamethrower, but survives to strike hard with Water Pulse. However, Braixen Attracts Grimsley, but Grimsley rejects her with a critical hit Water Pulse, leaving Braixen knocked out. With Amaria's Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Amaria is pleased that I never fail to impress her, and says that I've obviously come a long way from Gearen City. She gives me HM01 Cut as a reward for beating her, and says that she has to go give some kids their starter Pokemon. The usual. She says goodbye, and leaves to head back to Gearen City. I heal my Pokemon, then talk to the girl up ahead. She tells me that this route has two paths: One is very easy to travel on, but has a lot of trainers. The second path has almost no trainers, but it's filled with wild Pokemon. However, since I need to train my Pokemon, I choose to take the path with the trainers. However, I see an entrance to a forest, and so I head there.

I find a huge forest inside, and it is a HUGE maze. I have Ted as my Cut slave, so he cuts the trees. I battle the trainers as I follow the path, until I get to the end. I see a girl peering at an eerie statue from behind the trees, believing that there was a research center around here. I head closer, and sure enough, there is an eerie statue of a Kingdra. The guy in front of it tells me that the statue is missing a wing on it, and wonders if it fell in the stream. He tells me that the stream leads to Sheridan Village, which means that the wing would have gone down the stream, and ended up there. However, he checked the waterfall there, too, and couldn't find it. He wonders if there are other sources of water in Sheridan. I wonder if I need any HMs to access these other sources of water in Sheridan Village? With that said, I leave Corta Forest.

I follow the path with the tough trainers, and beat them. However, as I continue, I find this mysterious rainbow-haired man, who's muttering to himself about who can satisfy the beating in his heart, and wonders why is it that no one can satisfy his lust for dance. He says that the music in his heart says yes, but this dull route tells him no. He tells himself to go home and take a bath, and screams that this is absolutely unacceptable. He sighs, and says that he'll just have to follow the beat of his heart. He walks away, while I am just confused. This guy must either be a hopeless romantic, or a dance-crazed hippie... With that said, Ted cuts some trees, but I find locked buildings. I battle more trainers, and beat them.

However... Since Shawn is a Dark-type, IronFist evolves into... Pangoro! I battle more trainers, and as I'm heading down the river, I hear somebody tell another not to even think of getting away from him, and announces that it's time for Rorrim B. to make an appearance. However, he appears from behind me! So that kid was me... Nice... It almost actually seems like he's a pedophile by the way he was talking to me. He says that the B.B.Beats in his heart lure himself to me, and he asks me if I think I can just come up in here and dance my way to victory. He says that only he can do that, and it's time to get wrecked by the dance.

You wanna dance? Let's dance.

Disco Guy Rorrim B. sends out Yanmega, while I send out Grimsley. Yanmega nearly knocks out Grimsley with a few Ancient Powers, but Grimsley survives and Bounces on Yanmega twice, knocking it down to the ground. Rorrim B. sends out Wormadam, while I send out Swoop, who slices Wormadam twice with Air Cutter, knocking it down. Rorrim B. sends out a Shadow Vivillon, which I can't even catch because Madelis disabled my snag capabilities in my Pokeballs! SCREW YOU, MADELIS!!! Vivillon goes into Hyper Mode after knocking out Swoop with Shadow Rush, so I feed the beast with Ted, who it knocks down in one hit with Shadow Rush. I send out Grimsley, who strikes with Quick Attack before going down from Shadow Rush. I send out Charles, who survives Shadow Rush, and knocks out Vivillon with Flame Burst. Rorrim B. sends out Accelgor, so I heal Charles with a Super Potion. After Accelgor uses pointless moves such as Swift and Me First, Charles burns it down with two Flame Bursts. With Rorrim B.'s dancing Bug-types defeated, I win the battle!

He tells me not to turn the music off, and scoffs as he claims that the beat in my heart is as beautiful as Mirror B's. He vows that one day he will be as musical and dance crazed as Mirror B. one day. He leaves, saying until next time, telling me to stay beautiful and in tune. He happily leaves, and so I continue.

Yup... He's just dance crazed, as well as a Mirror B. wannabe. What ELSE do I have to deal with in this region?

As I continue onward, I notice that half of the Route is golden-colored. I learn from a man that this whole route used to be golden when he was a kid, but over time the trees started turning green. He wonders if all of the golden colors will disappear one day. Maybe, maybe not. You never know. I also find a Pokemon Center! It's just like Kanto! I head inside, and find a lonely Nurse Joy who doesn't even notice the other person in the building. Nurse Joy is also standing a few feet away from the machine, which is weird. It's even weirder when she heals my Pokemon. Seriously, does she have long arms to reach that far? I heal my Pokemon, then train them.

After a while of training my Pokemon, I cross to the gold side of Route 3. I talk to the people there, but they rudely ignore me, telling me to buzz off, go away, and never come back. What the heck? I didn't do anything to you guys, so YOU should be the ones to buzz off. I continue onward, and I see Ren blocking the gate. I hear him talking to himself, trying to encourage himself for what lies up ahead. He says that it's just Goldenleaf Town, and reassures himself that they aren't really mad at him for what he did. He wonders who's behind him, and turns around to notice me. He wonders what I'm doing here, but I ask him what HE'S doing here. He tries to come up with an excuse, and his only excuse is that he was waiting here so he could battle me. He explains that it's been a while since we last battled, so he thought we could spar a bit. He tells me not to hold back on him, and the battle begins.

Yeah... I'm not buying your excuse, Ren. Tell me the truth already!

Ren sends out Sableye, while I send out Shawn. I switch Shawn out for IronFist. Because of IronFist's Scrappy ability, he can hit Sableye with Fighting-type attacks. Unfortunately, Sableye manages to confuse AND paralyze IronFist with Confuse Ray and Thunder Wave, AND survive IronFist's Vital Throw. Ren heals it with a few Hyper Potions as IronFist keeps striking with Vital Throw. I heal IronFist with a Full Heal, and after being confused and paralyzed again, Ren runs out of Hyper Potions, and IronFist strikes through with another Vital Throw, knocking Sableye out. Ren sends out Scraggy, while I send out Shawn, then Noice. However, Noice gets knocked out before he can even attack, so I send out Swoop, who knocks out Scraggy with two Air Cutters. Ren sends out Houndour, while I send out Grimsley, who gets paralyzed by Houndour's Thunder Fang. However, Grimsley manages to weaken Houndour with a few Quick Attacks before going down from Flame Burst. I send out Shawn, but he quickly goes down from Houndour's Thunder Fang. I send out a fully healed IronFist, and he smacks Houndour down with Karate Chop. Ren sends out Frogadier, who nearly knocks out IronFist with Round, but IronFist survives, and knocks out Frogadier with a critical hit Vital Throw. Ren sends out Murkrow, while I send out Charles. Charles nearly goes down from Murkrow's barrage of attacks, but after a few Flame Bursts from Charles, Murkrow goes down. With Ren's Dark-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Ren says that I'm just as good as he remembers, and says that this blows, complaining why he lost to me. Ren, come on. You were asking for it, buddy. If you would have just told me the truth, you wouldn't have lost. He asks me what I'm doing here, but realizes why I'm here. He says that I should find a different way around, however, because this city isn't that safe. He then says that he's going to protect me because I'm a good pal, and he tells me to stand a few feet away. However, he decides to put a metal bar around the gate, preventing me from going into Goldenleaf Town! WHAT THE HECK, REN?! He asks if this is much safer, and says that this way, I won't be able to get in the town, and I'll be absolutely SAFE. He tells me not to go and try destroying it, and say not even fire can melt this piece of metal. However, he slips out that maybe acid could, but only Venam is capable of doing that though. He realizes that he's said too much, and says that he has to go now. He says that I'll understand when I'm older, and leaves. So much for battling me. If I knew you were going to be a sore loser, I would have come earlier so you wouldn't block it from me. And I AM old as it is, Ren! Fortunately, I find a Dusk Stone near the gate. I wonder why Ren didn't pick this up? With that said, I head on my way back to Gearen City.

However, just as I'm about to head back to Sheridan Village, I find a guy who comes up to me, and sees that I look totally worn out. He assumes that I'm pretty tired from traveling, and says that if I find him in any major city, I should talk to him. He says that he'll give me a lift whenever, so that way, I won't have to walk so much anymore. He leaves, and I head to Sheridan Village to look for him. Sure enough, I find him near the entrance, so I talk to him, and he takes me to Gearen City.

Now this guy... This guy is a true friend. Always there to lend a hand. Unlike Ren, who blocks me off from Goldenleaf Town! I don't care if it's bad, I want to get my badge and find Saki! But first thing's first, I'll have to find Venam. Time to start looking!

Current Stats:

There has been one evolution, as Ironfist has evolved into Pangoro! Now it's twice as strong than it was before! It also learned new moves, too, such as Vital Throw. Some of the other Pokemon learned new moves and leveled up as well.

Charmeleon

Name: Charles

Level: 33

Moves: Fire Fang, Growl, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Frogadier

Name: Grimsley

Level: 32

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Quick Attack, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 29

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 30

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Cutter, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 29

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Lava Plume, Body Slam

Carvanha

Name: Shawn

Level: 28

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 34

Moves: Circle Throw, Work Up, Karate Chop, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XIII: The Mysterious Marianette, And The Huge Kristolica Palace!

After Ren was 'kind' enough to block my way to Goldenleaf Town, I head to Gearen City by truck. I head to Venam's house, but her mom tells me that Venam is probably by the gym. I head to the gym, and the gym guy tells me that she's at the sewers at the moment. He says that apparently they discovered a new area in the sewers, and they're investigating it now. I head down to the sewers, and go to a part I haven't seen before. The girl there tells me that Venam went into the part of the sewers they just discovered. However, before going to Venam, I train for a little bit.

After training Shawn, he evolves into... Sharpedo! I also train the rest of the team. After training Charles, he evolves into... Charizard! And after training Grimsley, he evolves into... Greninja! After training them for a little while, I go over to Venam and her friends, and we see a huge mansion. Venam is still shocked, saying that there's no way something like this was under Gearen. Luca is still shocked, too, and says that a huge mansion was underneath Gearen City. Venam notices me, and says that it's been a while. I head over to her, and she tells me that they were planning on expanding the sewers since it was getting extremely cluttered. However, on further inspection, they discovered this place, and for some reason, there's a mansion under here. She says that this is just another mystery she'll have to add to the list of mysteries she'll probably be too lazy to solve. However, Luca remembers a mansion existing in Gearen before it became so robust, and Venam tells her that she might be on to something. She also remembers a mansion being in a book she didn't read in history class, but remembers that she only looked at the pictures in those books, too, now that she thinks about it. She reveals that if her picture-perfect memory is perfect, this is Kristolica Palace. She reveals that this was a palace that was owned by a couple of wealthy people, and it was said to be one of the most beautiful palaces in the entire world! She sees that money can get you anything, and says that we should go inside. And by we, she means her and I. She gives no offense to the others, but says that we're the strongest here, and if anything happens, we can defend ourselves. Luca obeys, and so does Lenny. Venam turns to me, and tells me that even though we haven't seen what's inside yet, she sorta has a bad feeling about this. She shrugs it off, and regardless, we take a look inside because we won't know what's inside unless we see for ourselves. And so, we head inside the marvelous palace.

We slowly head inside, and we see a man talking to his maids. Doesn't that man look like the man in the beginning who was sacrificing his own daughter...? Venam realizes what's going on, and apologizes, saying that we didn't exactly mean to just waltz in here or anything. He turns to us, and silences us. Venam is shocked, and takes a step back, saying that she was just being polite. The man makes a snappy remark, saying we walked into his home uninvited. Venam steps forward, and says that he got her, but asks him a question. She asks him what the heck he's doing living underneath a city, let alone in a sewer. The man snaps, and orders his maids to take her away. His maids grab her, and she snaps, asking them what they are doing, and telling them to let her go. They take her away, and now I stand alone, face to face with this man. He tells me that he has no remorse for commoners entering his home without permission, and says that this is all our doing, not his. He defensively explains that he is merely pushing us towards consequence. Huh. This guy seems like a reasonable, respectable man. However, before he moves on, he introduces himself as Indriad. He tells me that me and my friend were reckless to enter this sacred house, and saving my friend will not be easy in the slightest. He tells me that if I want my friend back, I must defeat his daughter in battle. He says that his daughter is upstairs, and asks that I go fetch her, and then enter the room ahead of us. He tells me not to be late, and make sure I have the power to face her in battle. He leaves, as I ponder at the situation. I head upstairs, and find his daughter in her room, along with Pangoro, Magmortar, and Salamence plushies. She asks me if I have come to hurt her too, and says that the depths of the universe calls to her unexpectedly, asking for favors. She asks me why I am here, and tells me to leave. However, I tell her that I've come to battle her, or, am forced to battle her. She sees that she has no choice, and tells me to meet her in the battle room then. She also introduces herself as Marianette, and says that she'll see me there. She leaves, and I follow.

I head through the door Indriad instructed me to go to once I've spoken to Marianette, and I see two stairs. I take the one on the left, and it leads me to a Gothita! However, it runs off somewhere in the palace, and I head to the room on the right, which gives me a Rare Candy. I look for Gothita, and find it in Marianette's room. However, it runs off again, and seeing how it is no where in the rooms I've been to so far, I head through the door.

I find a room with checkerboard pieces in the corners, and red paths. I speak to the maid, and she tells me to proceed, I must prove that I am able of comprehending the simplest of logic.

"Four checkerboard pieces have been placed on the floor before you. The northeastern piece represents the park, the northwestern piece represents the school. the southwestern piece represents the shopping mall, and the southeastern represents home." See? I know not to be deceived by your trickery, you scullery maid. The northeastern piece is the PARK, not the SCHOOL. The northwestern piece is the SCHOOL, not the PARK.

She asks me if I'm ready for the equation, and I am.

"A girl on her way to school saw a shopping mall that held many of her interests. While on her way to the shopping mall, she noticed a small park which had the most green of grass. She then visited the park, and stayed there for five minutes. Then, she realized she forgot her most prized possession, her doll. As she rushed home, she realized she had forgotten her bag at the park. Once she got home and got her doll, she then ran back to the park to realize that that her bag was gone. She then traveled to school in the opposite direction, and made it to school late. After school was done, she ran home in the eastern direction to look for her missing item. However, as she got to the park, it started to rain, and ran towards the shopping mall. When she got to the mall, she was so dizzy from running that she began to spin in each direction. She spun four times, and then waddled in the direction of which she stopped spinning all the way home."

The maid tells me that by using the checkerboard tiles on the floor, to mock the route in which the girl took that day. She also tells me to note that the red tiles represent the paths that were available to the girl. She warns me that stepping off the red tiles will cause me to fail the puzzle, and will have to begin from the beginning. I get taken to the southeastern tile, and start the test.

First, I head left to the shopping mall, then head back home, up to the park, down back home, back up to the park, left to the school, right to the park, but left to the school, and down to the shopping mall, up to the school, right to the park, and down back home. It's hard if you mix up the school and the park, but once you get that they're different, the story works. With the test done, the maid disappears into the next room, and congratulates me, saying that I am correct. She tells me that the next room is now available for me to enter. Though I wonder... Was the girl in the equation Marianette?

I head into the next room, and I find Gothita on the other side of some boxes, which means I have to find a way around. I also see that the room is slightly in disorder. I battle of the maids, and she wants me to learn more about them. She even says that if I leave my friend here, she will be in a much better position. What do they plan on doing to us? I see more Mew statues, much like the one at Team Xen's lab in Carotos Mountain. I flip the switch, and they reveal stairs. I climb over the bookshelves, and battle another maid. I beat her, and she calls me a fool who denies the truth. I step on the red tile, and it warps me to the other side of the room! I flip the switch on the Mew statue, and climb down the bookshelf. I corner Gothita, but it runs off somewhere else! I battle the maid, and she asks me if I truly value the life of my friend. So they WERE planning to kill her! I bet they were going to sacrifice her, too! I beat her, and she sees that I value my friends highly. However, if only I value my own life like I do my friends. I bet they were planning on killing me, too... I flip the switch, and the bookcase in front of the doors reveals another pair of doors! I warp back to the left side of the room, and find Gothita. However, it runs off again!

I head through the doors, and I find myself in the rest room, where I get to heal my Pokemon, and use the PC if I need to. The master requests that I use the machines to heal my Pokemon if needed anyway, so I heal them. I head into the battle room, and find Gothita sitting next to Marianette and Indriad. However, it runs off again, and I go look for it. After looking everywhere, I eventually find it at the exit. I corner it, and it claims to be tired of running from me. Tired of running from the law, eh? Reminds me of a song... You must be claiming you're tired because you're literally cornered. However, it seems like it wants to go with me, so I catch it and name it Crescent.

After catching Gothita, I put it in the PC, and heal my Pokemon. I head into the battle room, and Venam begs me to help her. If I use Shadow Pokemon, Marianette demands that I get those infernal things away from her, and she won't let me battle with such infernal things. Do you even know what these things are, Marianette? You DO seem awfully familiar to somebody I know... I put away my Shadow Pokemon, as it was only a test, and Marianette speaks. She stutters that her father has told her of the one true god, Arceus. She explains that we were all born from it, and Arceus is our true and only savior, saying that we must obey Him at all costs. Therefore, she, Marianette Theolia, will partake in an official gym battle. She's a GYM LEADER?! BUT SHE REMINDS ME SO MUCH OF MELIA!!! Though I feel like I'll have to remember that name... Theolia... Venam is shocked just as much as I am, asking Marianette if she is truly a gym leader. Marianette admits it, and reveals that she specializes in the type Arceus has been accompanied with. Venam asks her which it is, and Marianette says that would be the Normal-type. However, she explains that her father always tells her that it's smart to-- Indriad then silences her, and she turns to him to apologize. She turns to me, and explains the rules. That being said... The battle begins.

I'm sorry it had to be this way, Marianette, but not only do I need a badge, but I must save Venam as well. Your father brought it on us, and so we must fight. Let us begin.

Esoteric Marianette sends out Wigglytuff, while I send out Tortimer. While Tortimer Curses at himself, Wigglytuff uses Multipulse, a move which is just like Work Up, which builds up on attack and special attack. After five Curses, Tortimer strikes with Flame Wheel. As he Curses himself one more time, Marianette heals Wigglytuff with a Hyper Potion. I give Tortimer some Chinese Food, and he strikes with another Flame Wheel. However, Wigglytuff survives, and is healed with another Hyper Potion, but gets knocked out by Flame Wheel this time. Marianette sends out Slaking, so I keep Tortimer out and have him Protect himself, while Slaking strikes with Earthquake. With Slaking loafing around now, Tortimer strikes with Flame Wheel, but Slaking survives. It repeats, but Tortimer fails Protect sometimes. Slaking can't even hit Tortimer, and Tortimer eventually defeats the great King Kong Slaking with Flame Wheel. Marianette sends out Cincinno, who attacks with Rock Blast. However, that doesn't do anything to Tortimer, as he burns Cinccino down with Flame Wheel. Marianette sends out Ambipom, who strikes with Fake Out, flinching Tortimer. However, since Tortimer is holding a Quick Claw, he quickly strikes with Flame Wheel, and knocks out Ambipom with a critical hit. Marianette sends out Swellow, who tries to knock Tortimer down with Brave Bird. However, that doesn't do anything at all, as he quickly ends Swellow with Flame Wheel. Marianette sends out Pyroar as her final Pokemon, and she desperately does not want to lose, saying she has to win. Even though Pyroar is a fire type, Tortimer still hits with a critical hit Flame Wheel, and Pyroar's Snarl misses. Marianette gives Pyroar a Hyper Potion, and even though Pyroar's Echoed Voice leaves a dent for Tortimer, he still knocks out the roaring Pyroar with Flame Wheel. With Marianett'es Holy Normal-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Marianette tells me that through the light of my Pokemon, I have transcended the evil that lies within the dark. However, she freaks out that she lost, and is now in despair. Indriad is disappointed in her, and assumes that it seems as though she still hasn't learned a thing. Marianette tries to defend herself, but he orders the maids to let Venam go. Venam goes to the center, and turns to the maids, threatening them that if they touch her again, she'll kill them both. Marianette turns to me, and gives me the Normality Badge. Indriad now speaks, and tells me to wait outside if I would, for he has something he would like to say to propose. Seems suspicious, but still, what a respectable gentleman! Marianette is shocked, and asks him if he means-- Indriad silences her, and tells her that he will speak with her later. He tells me to wait for him outside, and Venam tells me that we should GET OUT of this place.

We head to the foyer, and Venam says that was a total nightmare. She tells me that those maids kept reciting these long passages to her, and told her that they were going to show her the 'truth.' She goes on, and says that first if they're going to attack her, and then recite weird things like that... Marianette comes out and tells us that we must run. Come on, Marianette! I am just waiting for Indriad to come out! Maybe he has something good for me! We turn to her, and just as Venam is about to say something, Marianette tells us to trust her, because what we want is not what we have come here for. He tells us to hurry, for he's coming this way. She says that she's not exactly sure who we are, but she feels as though she must protect us, and tells us that we must leave at once. Venam asks her what she's talking about, and Marianette says that if we do not choose to leave, then she must force us out. Venam defends herself, and says that there's no need to get violent because we're leaving. Venam leaves, and Marianette tells me that she feels as though we have met somewhere before, which is why for some reason she considers me to be... her friend... That is why she is telling me to also leave, for what her father wants of me cannot be good. She says that he's probably going to do the same to me just like- She stops herself, and tells me that I have to go now. And so I leave.

I wonder... Since she has met me somewhere before... Does that mean...? And when she said that her father was going to do the same to me just like... Was he going to do something that he did to her?

We head out of the palace, and Luca asks us how it went. Venam tells them that we have to stay AWAY from this mansion because there's a psycho inside living with his psycho daughter. Well, his daughter's not a psychopath, but him, I'm starting to have thoughts... We step away from the mansion, and Luca says that she wants to go take a look, and Venam is shocked, asking her if she did not hear what she said. She tells her that this place is really dangerous, and Luca knows, but only wants to take a small peek. She heads inside, and Venam is mad. However, she comes out, and tells us that it's just an empty storage room. Then explain how the mansion is so huge, but can only fit an empty storage room?! Me and Venam are confused, and she asks her what she's talking about. Luca explains that there's nothing in there but junk, and Venam is mad. She heads inside to prove that it's a mansion, and Luca realizes that it was probably not a storage room when we went in. I head inside, and I'm shocked at how it is a storage room now. Venam is just as shocked as I am, and is sure that what we saw was real. She says that this is a pain on the brain, and says that what we clearly saw was a full blown mansion. She asks me if she's correct, and she is.

"What is going on in this messed up region?!"

She says that we shouldn't dwell on it too much, though. She remembers what she was going to talk about, and asks me what I'm doing here because she forgot to ask me. I tell her that Ren blocked the gate to Goldenleaf Town, and she sees that he's being a jerk again, and what's new about that? She sighs, and says that she'll meet me on Route 3 and take care of my problem, telling me not to worry. After that, she'll personally deal with Ren. She also tells me that she really appreciates me saving her back then, and she really does. She promises that she'll make it up to me one day, and tells me to wait for it. I wonder what that favor will be? She leaves, and I pick up TM42 Facade. I then leave, and head back to the newly renovated Gearen City.

When I get back up to Gearen City, I heal my Pokemon, and ride the truck back to Sheridan Village. I head down to Route 3 until I reach the gate to Goldenleaf Town, and I find Venam already there. She tells me to watch, as she tells her Grimer to use Acid on the metal rail, destroying it. She says that Ren is going to pay for putting that rail there, and says that she can't believe his crap sometimes. She asks me why I need to go this way anyways, and I tell her it's so I can see Saki. However, upon hearing that name, she flips out, and asks me why in the world would I want to go meet a loser like Saki, and then says that she doesn't even care. She tells me to never mention her name to her ever again, and asks if I got that. She even emphasizes never by repeating it so many times, and says "NEVER, AGAIN." She even wants to spit out her own blood before she even says her name again. She then says that she's out of here, and says goodbye as she storms off back to Gearen City.

So much for making it up to me... Unless that will happen in the future. Possible shipping ahead... ANYWAYS, Now that the rail has been destroyed, I can go to Goldenleaf Town! Next badge, here I come!

Current Stats:

Tortimer has done it again! Another gym leader sweep by the fiery turtle! With new moves and a Quick Claw equipped, Tortimer is ready for anything! Well, except special attacks and Water-types, but aside from that, he can take on anything! There have also been some evolutions, as Charles, Grimsley, and Shawn have all evolved! New moves were taught as well to some of the team.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 35

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 35

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 30

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 34

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 34

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 32

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 34

Moves: Circle Throw, Work Up, Karate Chop, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XIV: The Hostile Goldenleaf Town, And The Wispy Tower Conspiracy!

After getting my third gym badge and getting Venam to kindly remove the rail, I head to Goldenleaf Town. However, as I enter Goldenleaf Town, I hear a kidnapping. Somebody's telling other people to let go of them, and they want somebody to help them, and says they're by the water, but somebody shuts them up. I head by the water, and see a group of people about to hang a girl! That's who was calling for help! She calls for help some more, and one of the guys tells the girl to hang her already because he wants to see her hang. The girl is about to get it over with, but I come to the rescue, as she turns around, wondering who I am. She tells me to leave this to the adults, and promises that it won't hurt the girl a bit. Yeah, I'm not buying that. She sees that I'm not leaving, as she didn't think I would anyways, and says that she'll make me regret not doing so. I beat her Trevenant with Tortimer, and she calls me a rascal. Even though I battled a girl named Kira, it says that her name is Sariah. The girl that was about to be hanged pushes Sariah out of the way, and the girl thanks me for saving her, but she's gotta bounce, as she runs off. Sariah is mad, and says that she's sick of us outsiders thinking we can do whatever we want in this town. She warns me not to think this is the end because they will be back. They leave, and I speak to the people of the town.

I talk to the people, but they want nothing to do with me. I talk to an old woman, and she just smacks me away! Why is everyone so offensive around here? I see the Pokemart man out here, which is strange. Shouldn't there be a Pokemart? I head into the residents' houses, and I find a Pichu in one of them. One kicks me out of their house, another smacks me across the room, and one even threatens me to die in a fire! WHY IS EVERYONE SO OFFENSIVE?

I find a house house next to the Pokemon Center, and head inside, hoping that nobody will be offensive to me. The woman assumes that I am Ren, but sees that I'm not. She apologizes for thinking that I was her son Ren. She introduces herself as Ren's mother, and sees that I know Ren. She's glad to hear that he's okay, and reveals that Ren ran away because of this town's ordinance for isolation. However, she doesn't approve of how they treat people either, but it's too deep to fix. She says that I'm always welcome to rest here if I like. She also tells me that Ren was gone first, but now her daughter Reina is gone as well. She wonders if she's really that bad of a mother. It's not your fault, it's the town's fault! I head into Reina's room, and find a Spoink! However, it ignores me, so I leave, wanting to catch it later.

I then head to the Pokemon Center to heal my Pokemon. However, I see almost all of the people that aren't part of this town, and they're all in there because they're so scared to go outside. Apparently, the town is mean to them, too, because they beat up a girl's Pokemon, and dumped water all over another girl! I see a group gathering, and they plan to report this town to the authorities. However, one says that they'll just run the authorities out of town, and another says that we should get out of here while we still can. One, however, still intends on getting his badge, and the Elite Trainer says that we should take matters into our own hands.

I head back to Ren's house, and go to the Spoink. I give it a Gourmet Treat, and confront it, catching it in battle, naming it Chubb. I head to the mountainside, and find the gym, with a woman at the front of the door. However, I also see what happened to the Pokemart... I ask the guy near it what happened, and he laughs, saying that they destroyed the Pokemart and surrounded it with water. He explains that's what outsiders get, and if I don't watch myself, I'm going to get wrecked by them. I talk to the woman in front of the gym, and she is surprised to see a foreigner. She says that they do not do well with foreigners, but she's sure that I've realized that already. She introduces herself as Narcissa, and she is the gym leader of this small town. She says that the only way to gain their friendship is to prove my worth by battling her and succeeding. However, she says that she has no time to battle at the moment because she has somewhere else to be. She leaves, and I excuse her. However, before leaving, she asks me if I could visit the Pokemon Center and calm the rowdy guests. She says that would be helpful, and thanks me, leaving while I go calm the guests down.

I head back to the Pokemon Center, and heal my Pokemon. I've already tried calming the people before, so I'm not going to do it again. I leave, but bump into Aelita as she walks in! She apologizes, and recognizes me. She's so happy to see me, and says that this town is extremely hostile, and she's not sure if it's safe to be outside right now, which is why she came in here. However, she also explains that she tried getting a badge from Narcissa, but she wasn't there. She goes to heal her Pokemon, and we talk more. However, as she's busy healing her Pokemon, some of the hostile people of this town come crashing in, saying that they've had enough of all of us in this town. Three of them enter, and me and Aelita are shocked, wondering what's going on. However, when we come down, I see that they're the same three who tried to hang an innocent girl! They explain that they want us all out of their town, now. Aelita snaps, and says that this town isn't private. Although it should be. Sariah says that our presence is annoys them enough, and wonders why we all can't just leave them alone. They say it's because of that stupid gym, and say that we all frolic here like we own the place, but we don't. Umm, nobody owns the place. It's public. Aelita says that we aren't leaving, and they say that if we won't leave, they're going to MAKE us leave. An Elite Trainer steps from his position, and helps us defend the Pokemon Center. He says that they can't make us go anywhere, and Aelita wants me to help them force the three away from the Pokemon Center. I confront Sariah, who says that she won't lose to outsiders. I battle her, and beat her Doublade and Haunter with Tortimer. After defeating her, they make a retreat. Aelita thanks me for helping out, and says that somebody has to go and tell Narcissa what just happened. She says that this town's attitude is way too bad for it to be going on like this, and tells me that she'll stay here and protect the Pokemon Center just in case they decide to come back with more. She tells me that when she went into the gym, a girl told her that Narcissa went to Wispy Path. She says that I'll have to take the west gate to get there, and tells me to be careful. I heal my Pokemon, and Nurse Joy is trying to calm everybody down since they're all scared. She tells me to be careful as well, as I make my leave.

As I step out of the Pokemon Center, I end up getting cornered by the three that attacked the Pokemon Center! Sariah asks if me and Aelita think we're so tough, and says that we were in a group. She explains that they've had enough of us people coming into their town uninvited. She sees that I'll be their next victim, and they plan to bash me so hard that hospital won't be able to save me. I battle Sariah again, and she's added a Duskull to her team. However, it's no use, as Tortimer burns through her team, destroying her. After she's defeated, it looks like there's going to be a round two, but instead... A big Pangoro comes to my rescue! Sariah freaks out, as she gets thrown across the town! The guy in front of me freaks out, and begs for mercy. However, he gets no mercy, as he is also thrown across the town. The last one apologizes, and runs away. Pangoro roars, and leaves. Who's Pangoro was that? I then head to the gate, and leave.

In the tunnel, I learn that Wispy Tower was once a very popular radio station, and it almost ran Johto's right out of business! However, it mysteriously caught fire one day... I wonder what happened? I head to Wispy Path, and hear that if I talk to a lot of people, something will happen at Wispy Tower. I battle the trainers along the path, and train my Pokemon. I also learn that Goldenwood Forest has just been reopened to the public, but there appears to be a dark energy sphere by the pond. I'll be back for that another day...

After defeating every trainer on Wispy Path, I head to the burned down Wispy Tower. I read all of the names of those who have died: Will, Ellie, Alisha, Nevvy, Neveah, Serah, and Gregory. I have a feeling that one of these guys isn't really dead... If I know anything, it's that one of them fakes their deaths, and becomes a villain. I see Narcissa at a shrine, and she tells me a story.

"Once upon a time, there was a bustling radio tower. We were on the top of the charts. We were about to be one of the most popular radio towers in the world. Then one day... a mysterious person entered the radio tower... They came, and burned it to the ground. My husband, the radio tower head, was killed in the inferno. From that day on, our town swore to isolate ourselves from the outside."

However, Narcissa says that the ordinance has become quite old, and she longs for the interaction of the outside. She's sure that everyone does, to an extent, and accepts that maybe it's time to look towards the future, and forgive their past ails. She thanks me for speaking to her, and says that it's been insightful. She invites me to go with her back to Goldenleaf together, and says that she'll wait for me outside. She heads outside, and so do I.

I head outside, but I find Narcissa unconscious! As I'm about to find out who did this, a man in front of us suggests that I back away from the hag. I look down to face my foe, and he says that it's been a long time, as he remembers the time when I teleported onto his table back at their base. I remember now! It's Geara! But why does he look different than when I last saw him? He says that was great, and he apologizes about the hag. He explains that she's a gym leader, and he can't take on both of us at once. He cuts to the chase by saying this as quick as possible. He says that it's time to head to the grave, and I walk in front of Narcissa to protect her. Geara sees that I'm not afraid to fight, and says that's just how I would act. He says that I think I'm so perfect, and that ticks him off so much. He says that I'm through, and vows that he won't lose to me.

Time to head to the grave? Something seems odd about you, Geara, and I'm going to find out! Geara, It'll be you who's going to the grave! Let's go!

Xen Initiative Geara sends out Yamask, while I send out Shawn. Shawn strikes with Assurance, but gets Mummified while Yamask burns him with Will-O-Wisp. Geara withdraws Yamask, and sends out Duskull, who still gets knocked out by Shawn's Assurance. Geara sends out Haunter, while I send out Swoop, but as Swoop nearly knocks out Haunter with Confusion, Haunter strikes Swoop down with Thunderbolt. I send out Shawn, who finishes the job with Assurance, knocking Haunter out. Geara sends out Honedge, while I send out IronFist. With Scrappy, IronFist attacks Honedge with Vital Throw, nearly knocking it out. Honedge tries building up with Iron Defense, but still gets knocked out by another Vital Throw. Geara sends out Yamask again, while I send out Shawn, who knocks out Yamask with Assurance. Geara sends out Spiritomb, and I send out IronFist, who gets burned by Spiritomb's Will-O-Wisp. However, IronFist still strikes with a critical hit Vital Throw, and after another Vital Throw, Spiritomb goes down. With Geara's Ghost-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Geara is shocked, and wonders what this power is. He says that my battle style is so different, but this doesn't change much at all. He tells me that once I see what he- Sariah comes, and tells Narcissa that they need to talk. Geara turns around, and sees that we have some party guests. However, he tells me that I know how he is with party guests, which is why he says that I'm a much better host than he is. He disappears and turns invisible, while leaving to the side, only to watch what unfolds. Sariah arrives, and sees Narcissa knocked out in front of me. She tearfully asks me how I could do this, and snaps, saying that she's had enough of us outsiders. She says that it's time to finish this once and for all, and Geara just watches, intrigued by the action. He sees that I'm totally getting blamed for what he did, but what we don't know is... Wispy Tower has a dark secret, and he's about to unleash it.

I end up getting taken to jail, and the guard says that I've put this on myself. He says that this is why they don't allow people like me into their town, because we come up in this crap, and we want to have good hospitality, and then we think we can do whatever we want. He says that ain't gonna fly here, and tells me to sit down and be a good kid. After a brief moment, the girl I rescued comes crashing in, and pushes the guy to the wall, knocking him out. She tells him to stay down, and she walks over to my cell. She apologizes for that, and says that when she was on her way, she totally saw this hot chicken joint, and she had to- She says that's totally irrelevant, and busts the door down for me. She comes into my cell, and introduces herself as Mosely. She asks me what my name is, and I tell her. She says that this is thanks for saving her last time, and says that we're even. She reveals why she's here, and reveals that she likes coming to this town and jacking their stuff. She does it since they almost attacked her last time she came here when she was sick. She stops what she's saying, and says that we should get out of here. She tells me that there were some weirdos heading towards Wispy Tower moments before they locked me up in here, and says that we should go that way. I ask her why, and she says that it's fun. She says she'll meet me outside, and she leaves.

I follow her outside, where it's storming now. She then explains the plan.

"Here's the deal. We're going to have to make it to the other side of town to the Wispy Path gate. Seeing as you've been thrown in jail is causing an internal uproar. The townspeople are going nuts trying to find any outsiders they can. You go to the gate, and I'll wait here. If we both go, they'll spot us instantly."

With that said, I start the stealth mission. The old woman is hard to sneak past, but I make it out anyway. As I sneak out, I see the Pokemon Center being blocked off. Eventually, I make it past everyone, and see Sariah at the gate. She is shocked to see me, and asks me how I got out of that cell. She says that she saw what I did to Narcissa, and they won't forgive me for this. You're wrong, Sariah! It wasn't me. It was Geara! She tells me that I'm going right back to that cell, but Mosely arrives safely, and wonders what's holding me up. She asks me if the twig Sariah is giving me trouble, and Sariah says that she's not letting me through. Mosely sighs, and says that she's done with them. She asks if she won't let us through, and says that we're just going to have to force our way through. Sariah is scared, and repeats herself. Mosely complies, but sends out Pangoro, saying that it doesn't like it when people don't listen to her. She says that if she asked it to throw Sariah away, it would. She thinks Sariah herself can vouch for that, but Mosely was being merciful that time, only saying to throw her a few miles off. She vows that this time, she'll make sure she gets thrown off the freaking region. She tells Sariah to step aside, but she won't. Mosely tells Pangoro to finish her, but Pangoro throws me above the gate instead, as Mosely was only kidding. She tells me to go on ahead, while she thinks she has to take Sariah to a psychiatrist or something because she scared her a little too much. She says she'll meet up with me later, and I continue onward.

As I head up the Wispy Path, I see Team Xen vehicles and grunts everywhere. I heal my Pokemon, and battle through the grunts. One of them has a Shadow Feebas, but I can't snag it! I beat the grunts, and head to Wispy Tower. Since the shrine looks odd, I head through it, and it takes me to a laboratory! I head up to Geara, and he's sitting on his chair like it's a throne. He says that it's very nice to see me after my capture, and he says that he's just enjoying a nice drink while watching some fool run around like sheep. He realizes that it's me, and I'm the sheep. He says that's cool though, and says that it suits me, especially my face because I have such a dumb expression. He says that we can't have the guest arrive to the party arrive too early, as he orders Eli and Sharon to activate the shutters. Eli and Sharon warp in, and greet me. After Eli says hello, Sharon tells him that's exactly how to say hello, and Geara tells them that he didn't call them to fool around. He tells them to activate the shutters already, and Sharon mutters to herself. They activate the shutters, and Sharon asks Geara if he's happy. He says that he is peachy, and says that should keep me out for good... or at least a while. He tells me to unlock the shutters, I'll need to press the release button on both monitors at the same time. However, seeing as though I am alone, he doesn't expect me to get very far. He knows me though, and to him, I'm seriously unpredictable. He actually wants me to show him true defiance, and Sharon sees that Geara really knows how to put on a good show, sarcastically saying so. She says good job if he's picked up on the sarcasm, and it's real good. Eli tells "Shardon" that she's too fierce, and he doesn't want trouble from the boss. Geara even tells "Shanon" that he wonders who's really the smart one in their group, and says that she should listen to Eli. She corrects him, saying that it's Sharon. The Misfortunate Duo leave, and Mosely comes in, saying that all she heard during that speech is that Geara is a big fat NERDDDDDDDD. She asks if he really thinks that the MVP will be alone during his time to shine, and she thinks not. She laughs, and tells me that we're going to get to Geara and show him who's boss. She says that she'll go look for the other warp point, and we'll regroup later. She leaves, and I start beating Xen grunts left and right.

After I beat the first grunt on the left, I find a recovery machine in the left room, so I heal my Pokemon. I battle more grunts, and one of them has a Shadow Tropius which I can't snag! I beat the grunts, and try using the warp panels, but they're disconnected, which means I have to find a way to fix them. I head into the East wing, and find an Ability Capsule near two generators! I also defeat a depressed grunt, and activate the Teleportation Terminal. I also find a room filled with books, and I read each shelf.

"When Wispy Tower was founded on September 5th 1991, we were excited to become number 1. However, as time went on... we strived for more. So we built a secret underground lab. One day, everyone will know what and who we are. It's all for science."

"While trying to maintain our power in the lab, we've lost so many people in the process. How we cover up all of those deaths? Well... we don't. We do... other things..."

"By using the power of hydroelectric energy, we were able to conduct our experiments with upmost anonymity. Purchasing traditional electrical equipment from West Gearen would surely leak into the public. This is the only way."

"We've finally got our hands on a legendary Pokemon! We're going to use its power to create a new world."

"When the head of the Wispy Tower, Tyron, saw the truth, he was fueled with anger. He desired to create a new world where he could create peace. What good would peace do? It would only bore us to death."

"There's not much time left... the tower is burning... I have time only to explain what happ-"

However, as I try to read the rest of the page, it's drenched with dried blood. Since the warp panels are now on, I head to the one on the left, and see Mosely on the right side. She's surprised that's all it took to turn on the panels, and wonders where the boom and kapow are, and about the scientist pleading for his life. She feels cheated out of an adventure, but remembers what to do. She heads to the monitor, and asks me how many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tympole Pop. She counts to three, then clicks as we flip the release switches, unlocking the shutters. She says we should go, and so we do. I head back to the main area, and climb to where Geara was, only to see a door to another room.

I head to the other room, and Mosely tells me that there's an over here. She bets that it goes down to Geara, and she heads to the elevator. However, Eli says that she was baited, as the bookshelf slides over the elevator, revealing the real one! Mosely is surprised, and sees that somebody locked the door. She reveals that she's claustrophobic, and tells them not to do this. She bangs on the door, and Eli and Sharon reveal themselves. Sharon feels guilty about locking a child in a closet, especially since she's so claustrophobic, and Mosely begs them to open the door, crying away in there. She bangs on the door hard as she bawls her eyes out, and Eli gets scared of her scream. Sharon says that we should get this over with, and so we do.

Eli, Sharon, after this battle, you WILL let Mosely go. Got that? Good. Let's go!

Eli and Sharon send out Lunatone and Solrock while I send out Grimsley and Shawn, and they strike with Water Pulse and Assurance and survive from two Rock Slides. While Eli and Sharon heal their Pokemon with Max Potions, Sharon withdraws Lunatone for Milotic, and Solrock gets knocked out by Grimsley's Water Pulse. Eli sends out Tangrowth, and Milotic knocks out Shawn with Ice Beam because Shawn's Swagger misses. I send out IronFist, and Grimsley knocks out Tangrowth with X-Scissor. Eli sends out Rhydon, who gets knocked out by Milotic's Surf, along with Grimsley. I send out Swoop, while Eli sends out Gyarados, who knocks out Swoop with Thunder Fang. I send out Tortimer, and IronFist paralyzes Milotic and Gyarados with Body Slam while Tortimer Protects himself. I heal IronFist with a Hyper Potion, while he knocks out Gyarados with another Body Slam. Milotic attacks with Ice Beam, but it doesn't do much, as it's knocked out with Body Slam too as Eli sends out Lunatone. Tortimer and IronFist then gang up on Lunatone, and Tortimer knocks it out with Flame Wheel. With Eli and Sharon's Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

The duo doesn't even care, and Eli is silent, while Sharon says that they tried their best. She tells me to go on ahead, and tells me not to worry about Mosely, and they'll try to get her out. She reveals that she doesn't have anything against us anyways, and thinks that this whole team is stupid. She tells me to go on ahead, as she and Eli try getting Mosely out. As they're trying to get her out, she yells at Eli, saying that she can't push the bookshelf back by herself, and asks if he's nuts. She tells him that he's the one who pushed it, and if he breaks it, he buys it. Or in this case, he pushes it, he better push it back. Eli asks "Shardon" why she's so mean, and she yells at him, saying that it's SHARON, not "SHARDON." With those two arguing, I head down the real path to the elevator, and head down to the basement.

I heal my Pokemon, and enter the room, where I find Team Xen grunts operating on machinery, and they have no intention of fighting me. I confront Geara, and somehow he's not too surprised that I made it down here. He wonders how I unlocked the shutters, and Mosely arrives, still crying about being locked in a closet, and her presence answers his question. She loudly states that closets suck, and Geara shrugs her off. He says that if she'd just shut up, he would greet us to the main event... He tells us to follow him, and we do, as he presents us Giratina strapped to a machine! Mosely mistakenly calls it the Juggernaut, and Geara reveals that this is what's been hiding underneath the Wispy Tower all this time! Mosely wonders what the heck this chicken is doing underneath a burned building, and Geara says that he was getting there, but now he'd rather wait for the third guest. Mosely wonders who it is, and Narcissa comes in, wondering what is going on here. Geara sees her, and she comes in the room, and is in shock of what she sees. She is surprised to see Giratina in Wispy Tower, and Geara thinks that now that we're all here, it's time for a story.

"Once upon a time, there was a dashing, prosperous, and wealthy man. He was the owner and head spokesman for a popular radio station, The Wispy Hallows. Yes, everything was perfect. Beautiful wife, bustling town. He had a life everyone dreamed of. Yet... he still wanted more. He realized the grim truth of Aevium, and strove to make it a better place. This is when he started Project G. He heard of a world called the Distortion World. He read of there being a single life form living inside of the realm, Giratina. He thought that if he could harness Giratina's power, he could reverse the Distortion World and create a paradise. He then built this underground lab in secret with his colleagues. Eventually, they captured Giratina. Things were going to plan until a mysterious woman burned the tower into what we know Wispy Tower to be."

As he goes on with his story, Narcissa denies this, and says that her husband would never- Geara stops her, and asks her if he would never keep secrets from her. She says that no matter who they are; friend, husband, wife, mother, father, child... it's no different. He says that they will keep things from you, and this is what her husband kept from her. Narcissa snaps, saying that she's had enough of this. She tells Gregory to stop this, and Geara pauses. He asks her what the heck she called him, and rudely says that's not his name, and it's GEARA. G-E-A to the R-A. Mosely gets the similar phrases, as she compares Geara and Gira, realizing that he named himself after Giratina. He tells her to shut her mouth, and calls her a crybaby. She turns away, saying that she's not a crybaby, and Geara says that he didn't bring us here to tell backstories. He says that it's time we started the show, and Narcissa asks him what he's planning to do. He is glad that she asked that, and says that he's about to show us. He unleashes Giratina, and says that I have been a thorn in Team Xen's side for way too long. He decides that it's time to settle this. Narcissa says that there's no way we can take on such a threat ourselves, and Mosely agrees, saying that her Pangoro won't be able to take one hit from that thing. She suggests that we hit the road, but Geara sends the two Xen grunts to deal with her and Narcissa, saying that there's no way to run. Mosely and Narcissa turn around, and they're shocked. Mosely sends out her Pangoro, Pangy, and Narcissa sends out Dusclops, while the Xen grunts send out Medicham and Misdrevus. Mosely tells me that they'll take care of the grunts, while I go after the poser. With Geara ready to battle, the battle begins.

I think it's time we've finished this, Geara, or Gregory... I KNEW you were one of those people that were dead, and I KNEW you faked it! Geara, you're going down!

Geara sends out Haunter and Driftblim, while i send out Grimsley and Shawn, who knocks out Haunter with Assurance. Geara sends out Giratina while Grimsley knocks out Driftblim with Smack Down. Geara sends out Doublade, which evolved from when it was a Honedge, and Grimsley hits it with Water Pulse while Giratina knocks out Shawn with Aura Sphere after he strikes at Giratina with Assurance. I send out IronFist, and he attacks Giratina with Body Slam, and both Doublade and Giratina gang up on Grimsley, knocking him out with Doublade's Night Slash. I send out Charles, who attacks Giratina with Dragon Rage, while both Giratina and Doublade gang up on IronFist. However, IronFist survives, and knocks out Doublade with Vital Throw. For some reason, he doesn't have Duskull, Yamask, and Spiritomb, but that's okay, as Charles and IronFist gang up on Giratina. However, Geara gives Giratina a Hyper Potion, and Giratina knocks out IronFist with Air Cutter. I send out Swoop, and they both knock out Giratina with Wing Attack and Air Slash. With Geara's Pokemon and Giratina defeated, I win the battle!

Geara is shocked that he lost again, and wonders how this is possible. He says that he has unimaginable power from a legendary Pokemon by his side, and that there's no way he could've lost that. After Mosely and Narcissa defeat the grunts, they turn around, and Narcissa tells Gregory that she hasn't seen him since that day, but to think he's gone and turned into this... She tells him that he can still turn back from this, and that he can come home with us. Geara tells her that he doesn't need her sympathy, and tells her not to pity him. Mosely chimes in, and tells him that she's just trying to look after him, and asks him why he has to be so rude. He says that he doesn't need to be talked down to like some kid, and arrogantly claims that he is master of spirits, more than Narcissa will ever be. Narcissa sees that he's gone too far down, and says that he's still lost, telling him to let us go. However, Geara doesn't plan on letting us go so soon, as he says that Giratina still has some fight in it. He then orders Giratina to kill me, but Narcissa quickly tells Dusclops to trap it, and so it does, trapping Giratina to the wall. Geara is shocked, and Narcissa tells Dusclops that it did a great job. Geara is disappointed, and says that this can't be happening... to us. He orders Giratina to free itself at once, and it breaks free. He orders Giratina to shred Dusclops to pieces, and it does, slicing it like pizza, with Dusclops disappearing into nothingness. Mmmm... Pizza. Geara claims that it's over, and tells Giratina to wreck all of us. However, Narcissa has a trick up her sleeve, as she laughs. Mosely wonders what's so funny, and it seems as though Geara has underestimated Dusclops and her. She tells Geara that she thought he remembered that she's a Gym Leader of the AEVIUM League. Not Kanto, not Johto. She tells him that she means nothing but business, and if he thinks that Dusclops was destroyed by an extremely weak attack like that... Well, he's got another thing coming to him. She tells Dusclops to grab him, and he oddly goes back to his old look as Dusclops appears, grabbing him. He tells Dusclops to let go of him, and Narcissa says that Geara needs some time alone in the alternate dimension. Geara is confused, as the grunts retreat, and he is mad at them for leaving him here. Narcissa tells Dusclops to take him away, and Mosely tells it to drag him to the depths. Geara returns Giratina to its Pokeball, and he laughs as he is taken away.

Once Geara is gone, Mosely is happy, saying that was so much fun. Narcissa, however, is lost in thought, as she tells us not to mind her. She says that we should probably leave this place, and Mosely complies. Narcissa says that we should all go to her house because there are some things that need to be discussed. We then leave the abandoned lab.

Now that we're out of that dump, we can safely chat a while. Narcissa tells us that she told the townspeople that everything was a misunderstanding. However, she confesses that this is her fault though, as she was the one who upheld this ordinance of isolation. She says that they should learn to open up a little more, and Mosely says that's good. However, she's confused, as she asks Narcissa how come she didn't know about her husband's deal. Narcissa reveals that she wanted to believe that her husband never kept things from her, but obviously, that wasn't the case. However, she can never hate him, even for what he has done because she's sure there was some sort of reason. Mosely gets it, and says that she should get going because Maman is waiting for her back at home. However, Narcissa stops her, and tells her to promise that she won't steal from the mart here anymore. Mosely says that usually she wouldn't agree to an offer like that, but she shall make a special offer, just for Narcy. Narcissa quietly wonders why she called her Narcy, and Mosely says bye, leaving us to talk. Narcissa tells me that she would like to thank me from the bottom of her heart, and says that I protected her and Mosely back there. She tells me that she's never seen that kind of kindness from an outsider before, and says that maybe we aren't all bad. She sees that I still want a gym badge, and she says that she'll be waiting for me in her gym. She tells me to take my time, and she leaves.

I head outside, and talk to everyone, who pretty much apologize for their hostility before, even showering me with gifts. However, I head into the cave, wondering what is inside. However, it shows me a scene of Geara trapped in the alternate dimension, and he's disappointed. He wonders what he's supposed to do in this broom closet, and he sighs. However, Zetta appears too, and Geara sees that this is where Zetta went. Zetta says that this room has a nice view... of the void, and Geara likes the classy joke. Zetta tells him to can it, and wonders how he got there. Geara explains that he ran into trouble with a kid, which is the same thing that happened to Zetta. Geara tells him that it was me, and Zetta is shocked. He says that I was the same kid who got him trapped in here, with no help from Crescent. However, Jenner arrives too, and they wonder where he has been. Jenner explains that he's been here, obviously, and somebody crunches on their food. Geara notices Nim, and she's eating Gourmet Treats. She notices them, and the scene ends.

With this place being the Wispy Ruins, I head back to Goldenleaf Town. I head to the Pokemon Center, and the person at the door stops me as I'm about to heal my Pokemon. She tells me that the girl with purple hair told me that she'll meet me in Akuwa Town, which is north of this town. I also see that the man with the truck is finally here in case if I ever need to go back to the other major places. With the town finally at peace, I head to the gym.

Who knew that Geara was actually Narcissa's husband? Though one thing... How does Team Xen know who Mosely is? I have a feeling I'll see her again. Oh well, Narcissa, here I come!

Current Stats:

The team has leveled up quite a bit. I'll admit, battling Eli and Sharon was harder than the first time, but I managed to get my way through! Some Pokemon learned new moves, but I feel that I am ready to battle Narcissa. Maybe Tortimer will sweep Narcissa too, who knows? But DANG this is a huge chapter. And to think I did it all in one day!

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 37

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 38

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Noibat

Name: Noice

Level: 30

Moves: Roost, Supersonic, Bite, Air Cutter

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 36

Moves: Confusion, Heart Stamp, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Nidorino

Name: Venom

Level: 28

Moves: Poison Sting, Horn Attack, Rock Smash, Double Kick

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 37

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 36

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 39

Moves: Circle Throw, Work Up, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Fumble]

I head back to Ren's house, and go to the Spoink. I give it a Gourmet Treat, and confront it, catching it in battle. I name it Chubb.

Keep it up, Trevo~

[Tringus]

Chapter XV: The Ghostly Beautiful Narcissa, And Assembling A Powerful Team!

After solving Goldenleaf Town's problems and saving it from Geara and Giratina's wrath, I start to head inside the gym to get my fourth gym badge. However, I end up getting stopped by Aelita! That girl at the Pokemon Center lied! She said that Aelita was gone to Akuwa Town! She comes, and tells me that she heard about what I've done at Wispy Tower, and says that was incredible. However, before I move on and challenge Narcissa... she asks me for a quick little battle. She says that I don't get to opt out of this one because it already started.

Well actually, it hasn't until it goes into battle... But who cares. Let's go!

Student Aelita sends out Scraggy, while I send out Tortimer. Tortimer builds up from Curse, but gets confused by Scraggy's Swagger after it tries to weaken Tortimer with attacks, making me give Tortimer a Super Potion. I heal Tortimer with Chinese Food and Full Heals, and have him Curse until he's done. He then strikes with Flame Wheel, burning Scraggy, but Aelita gives Scraggy a Hyper Potion. Eventually, Tortimer snaps out of confusion, and burns Scraggy down with Flame Wheel. Aelita sends out Gallade, who attacks Tortimer with Rock Slide. However, he hangs on, as he strikes Gallade with Flame Wheel a few times, but Aelita heals Gallade with a Hyper Potion. After a war of hitting each other with Flame Wheels and Rock Slides, Tortimer gets the last laugh, as he knocks out Gallade with one more Flame Wheel. Aelita sends out Hawlucha, who strikes with Gale Strike, but Tortimer survives, and knocks it down with two Flame Wheels. Aelita sends out Mienfoo, and Tortimer gets knocked out when he nearly knocks out Mienfoo with Flame Wheel. I send out Swoop, and he knocks out Mienfoo with Air Slash. Aelita sends out Blaziken, and she says that it's not going down like this. Blaziken gets hit by Swoop's Air Slash, but knocks out Swoop with Thunder Punch. I send out Grimsley, who then retaliates by finishing off Blaziken with a critical hit Water Pulse. With Aelita's Fighting-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Aelita says that she at least tried, and sees that she may have underestimated me just a tad. She promises that she won't next time, and says that she was supposed to get a badge from Narcissa herself, but she sees that plan is done with. She says that she'll just make her way to Akuwa Town, and see if she can find Saki so they can fix my snag machine. She says goodbye, and heads on her way to Akuwa Town.

Since the truck guy is here now, I head back to Gearen City, and head to Chrisola Hotel, and I head to the room with the Mareep. The woman sees that I've been to faraway places, and she asks me if I can take Mareep with me because she's sure it'll be much happier traveling with me. With that said, I say yes, and catch Mareep, naming it Sheep. She tells me to take care of it, and I leave, heading back to Goldenleaf Town. I put Mareep in the PC, and I'm ready to battle Narcissa, so I step inside the gym.

I step inside the gym, and nobody is at the front. I step in the gym part, and the guy next to a warp panel is freaking out, confused about this whole puzzle. With the left and right stairs blocked off, I have no choice but to enter the room. I head into the room, and look at a picture of a man with his eyes torn out. I leave the room, and find a gray Chandelure before it disappears. I check the stairs, and the left stairs are not blocked off anymore. However, as I go through the gym, I encounter wild Pokemon, as well as many trainers. I head into the room next to the boxes, and and follow the path until I see that the exit is blocked by a box. I go around to where I came from but the other way, and I see another Chandelure that disappears. As it disappears, a flame disappears, but reappears at the exit, causing the box to disappear. I head outside, and find a fountain. I go back to the left door, and reappear at the entrance of the puzzle! However, the box on the right stairs is now gone, and I can access them. I battle a trainer, but there's nothing else. I enter the door in the middle, and there's a new path next to the picture. I follow it, and it leads me to the path I took upstairs! I head to the exit on the right, and a ghost appears behind me, asking where I think I'm going. I get taken back to the entrance, and both of the stairs are blocked. Thinking that I screwed up, I head inside the door. However, I am wrong, as it takes me to a new path. I realize that I have to follow wherever the flame is, and so I head through the door with the flame. It takes me outside, and I climb the stairs. I see that the path to Narcissa is no longer blocked, which means I can now battle Narcissa.

I heal my Pokemon, look around the gym, and I see Narcissa looking at one of the Chandelure statues. I climb down the steps, and she gets in position as the flames on the candles light up. She tells me to take my position, and I do. If I use Shadow Pokemon, Narcissa apologizes, but says that I possess illegal strength with me. She tells me to put them away, and return here, which I do so. However, Ren shouts from the door, saying that he's back, and this time he won't lose to her. He comes in, jumps over the rail, and realizes that I'm here. He is shocked to see me, and says that he thought he closed the entrance off. Narcissa says that it's wonderful to see him again, and says that it's been so long since they've last seen each other. Ren is silent, and goes over next to the candles, as he says that he had to get out of this dump of a town anyways. He says that the way they treat people is horrible, but she says that he's always one step behind. Ren is confused, and Narcissa explains that because of my actions at Wispy Tower, she's decided to end their ordinance of isolation. Ren is shocked, and is confused because he's been trying for years for her to do that. Narcissa laughs, and says that his reactions are always priceless. She turns to me, and apologizes for how they've treated me initially, and she's grateful for my help at Wispy Tower. However, she warns me that she will not hold back her power for that reason, as she hopes that I do not hold back as well. Ren wishes me good luck, as I'll need it. With that said, the flames on the candles turn purple, and battle begins.

You don't want me to hold back? Okay, but prepare to be spooked as I don't hold back the flames! Let's go, Narcissa!

Necromancer Narcissa sends out Gengar, while I send out Shawn, who strikes with Assurance while Gengar dumps a Sludge Wave on Shawn. Narcissa heals Gengar with a Hyper Potion, but Gengar gets knocked out with another Assurance. Narcissa sends out Doublade, while I send out Tortimer, who Curses himself a few times before knocking Doublade down by half with Flame Wheel. Narcissa withdraws Doublade for Rotom, and Narcissa heals Rotom with a Hyper Potion after it's hit with a Flame wheel. Unfortunately, Tortimer goes down from Rotom's Thunderbolt, so I send out Grimsley, who Smacks Down Rotom to the ground. Narcissa sends out Doublade, while I send out Charles, who burns Doublade down with Flame Burst. Narcissa sends out Mismagius, so I send out IronFist. As both Pokemon nearly go down from the others' attacks, Mismagius tries to pull a Destiny Bond. IronFist knocks Mismagius out with Body Slam, but instead of going down with it, he stays in the battle for some reason. Narcissa sends out Chandelure, while I send out Grimsley, who strikes with Water Pulse. Unfortunately, Chandelure survives, and knocks out Grimsley with Energy Ball. I send out Swoop, who attacks with Air Slash, but gets knocked out by Chandelure's Ghostly Wail, Narcissa's signature move which has a chance of raising defense. I send out Charles, and he finishes off Chandelure with Dragon Rage. Narcissa sends out Dusclops, and says that I'm about to shatter a wondrous illusion. Dusclops confuses Charles with Confuse Ray, but he snaps out of it, as he weakens Dusclops with Fire Fang and Flame Burst. Unfortunately, Dusclops knocks out Charles with Ghostly Wail, so I send out Shawn, who confuses Dusclops with Confuse Ray. I send out IronFist, and he Body Slams Dusclops into the ground as Dusclops also hurts itself from confusion. IronFist Body Slams Dusclops one more time, and knocks it out. With Narcissa's scary Ghost-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Narcissa says that I have shown myself to be a worthy opponent, as well as a worthy friend. The flames on the candles light back to normal, and she says that I have done well. In recognition of my power, she gives me the Reaper Badge, which means that Pokemon up to level 45 will obey me. Ren cannot even believe what he just witnessed, and says that he hasn't even been able to defeat Narcissa, but I beat her... and so easily as well. Narcissa tells Ren that he should seriously re-evaluate how he does things, and says that there was a reason why I was able to triumph, and not him. He tries to speak, but can't get his words out. Narcissa tells me that my job here is finished, as she tells me to go out and continue my journey. I walk past the silent Ren, and talk to Narcissa, who tells me that she did have a TM for me, but she thinks that she dropped it during her trip to Amethyst Cave. She apologizes, and with that said, I leave to go look for it.

However, on my way to look for the TM, I head to the house with the Pichu, and the guy asks me if I want to take care of it, because he can't take care of it anymore. I say yes, and name the Pichu Mr. Muffintops. Deciding to look in Sheridan Village, I head there, and look in one of the houses next to the Help Center. However, I see a Gothitelle there, and it seems to start mocking me. It pulls the Pokeball, and unleashes a Nuzleaf at me! I catch it and name it Sherrif, but Gothitelle just laughs at me, teleporting back to Crescent or wherever it came from. I then head to Gearen City and attempt to look for the TM there.

When I get to Gearen City, I head to Oceana Pier, and find a Buizel at the docks, abused. I feed it a Gourmet Treat, and it wants to go with me, so I catch it. I name it Flo, and catch another Aipom, naming it Aipain. I breed the two so I can then get a Buizel that knows Baton Pass. After walking around for a long while, the egg hatches, and I name the Buizel Fang.

After playing Reborn again, I finally realize where Substitute and Flash are, and so I head to the Game Corner. I play the Voltorb game repeatedly, and save enough to get the TMs. I teach Flash and Substitute to Mr. Muffintops, and Substitute to Fang. I head back to Goldenleaf Town to try finding a Drifloon, so I head into the gym. I follow the path again, but find a path on the southeast corner of the first room when I explore it the last time. It takes me to a door, so I head through, only to fall. When I can see again, I find myself in an odd room, only to find an Odd Key. Sure enough, I'm in Narcissa's house, and leave. I head to the house on the left of the Pokemon Center, and inside are empty boxes. I wonder what they're used for? I'm sure I'll find out one day... I then get an idea to check on the statue in the gym that Narcissa was looking at before. However, she tells me that what on the statue is top secret. I guess I'll find out someday.

In the meantime, I manage to catch a few Drifloon after finding it for so long, and breed the female Drifloon with a Duskull, just so it can learn Minimize. The egg eventually hatches, and I name him Kidnapper, because Drifloons are child kidnappers I level up Kidnapper to 44, and have him learn Baton Pass and Amnesia, while evolving him into Driftblim. However, I train Mr. Mime (I forgot I actually named it Mr. Mime), and he eventually evolves into an actual Mr. Mime. The reason why I'm training Mr. Mime, is so that he can learn Baton Pass, which he can pass on to a Meditite offspring. Seeing as I don't get enough training for him, I head into Wispy Ruins, and battle the trainers inside. One of them mentions a "Rare Candy" from the Reborn Region, too. That seems like an interesting place to go to... I guess I'll head there after conquering the Aevium Region.

I head to Sheridan Village, and catch a Meditite. Once Mr. Mime is level 46, I teach him Baton Pass, which I then breed Mr. Mime Meditite to pass Baton Pass down to another Meditite. The egg eventually hatches, and I name Meditite Metchan. I level him up to 43 , and teach him Calm Mind, Recover, and High Jump Kick (Maybe replacing it with Substitute. After that, Metchan evolves into Medicham. I also catch a Roggenrola, and evolve it into Boldore, teaching it Stealth Rock while keeping Sand Attack.

Remembering Mr. Muffintops, I level him up to 18, and teach him Thunder Wave, Flash, and Substitute. And for my ace in this makeshift team... Will be none other than Grimsley!

With a new team prepared, I'm on my way to Akuwa Town! Next badge and Saki, Here I come!

Current Stats:

The team has leveled up quite a lot! Most of the team has leveled up to 43, and there's even a couple new members on the team! First, we have P.I.M.P. the Murkrow! Yes, I did finally catch a Murkrow. P.I.M.P. stands for Player In the Management Profession. Remember that, now. He will also be replacing Noice because I feel that Noice isn't gonna be that strong, and I already have way too many Flying-types as it is. The second new member of the team is Sheep the Mareep, who will be replacing Venom! I have a feeling I will be needing him later on, so that's why he's joining the team now. There are other Pokemon mentioned in this chapter, but will not be on the main team itself. Why is that? That is its own team, with Grimsley working together with that group, too. However, Grimsley will still be on the main team. I trained these Pokemon for an impossible battle later on. You'll all know when you read it.~

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 43

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 43

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Heart Stamp, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Mareep

Name: Sheep

Level: 10

Moves:Tackle, Growl, Thunder Wave, Thunder Shock

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 43

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XVI: The Beautiful Road To Akuwa Town, Fun And Games With Nim, Mosley's Orphanage, And The Mysterious Neo Team Xen!

After defeating Narcissa and training an all new team of Pokemon, I head through Wispy Ruins, only to find a huge present waiting for me outside of the exit. However, it starts to whisper to me to come over to it, and so I do. It asks me what I call a situation without it is, and reveals that it's a... Nimpossible situation. As she says this, she reveals herself from the box with an explosion. She says that it's been a while since we last met, and tells me tat she's been analyzing every battle I took part in. She vows that this time she'll wreck me, but says that this wouldn't be fun without any fun Nim antics. She asks if we can have some fun, and starts doing some math.

"One plus one is... TWO!" Why is she cloning herself?

I back away, and they say...

"Two plus one is...THREE!" How many of them are there?

"LET'S HAVE SOMEEEEEE FUNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN!"

The three Nims leave, but one of them ends up next to me. She says nonsense about ravioli, and then leaves. I head up the path, and two Nims are blocking my way! They talk to each other about some party, and one of them even mentions how Lysandre wanted to kill her. They talk about space pirates, and assume that the world is ending. However, they are fakes, as one of them disappears, while the other talks about licking doorknobs, then disappears. Assuming that it is the real Nim, I see her hiding behind a tree. However, she disappear! I find another one in the southeast corner, ready for Cross Impact. She likes the vibe, and disappears. I find another one in the middle, and she asks me about giraffes being black with yellow blotches. She disappears, and I see another Nim spazzing out about an outbreak of foos. She disappears, and I find a Nurse Joy blocking the way to Akuwa Town. However, she acts like the Nims! I find two more Nims, and another girl who's not a Nim, and her name's Sissy! I battle her, then talk to the other Nims, as they disappear after saying more nonsense. I head back to Nurse Joy, who is revealed to be the real Nim. She says that's enough partying for now, and apologizes for the show because she's been really bored waiting for me. She asks me if I know the routine, and sets the stage as we head into her realm.

When we get to her realm, she tells me that she's seen me fight Team Xen before, and says that I battle like no other trainer she's ever encountered. She says that I'm always so strong and brave... two things that she admires about me. She says that she wants to become more like me, and therefore, she challenges me to a marvelous battle.

You want to be more like me, eh Nim? Very well! Battle start!

Nim sends out Lunatone and Solrock, while I send out Grimsley and P.I.M.P., who gang up on Lunatone with Water Pulse and Night Shade. Nim sends out Meowstic, while Solrock knocks out P.I.M.P. with Stone Edge. I send out IronFist, who assists Grimsley in ganging up on Solrock with Crunch after Grimsley strikes with X-Scissor, knocking out Solrock. Nim sends out Malamar, while switching out Meowstic with Duosion. Before Malamar can even attack, Grimsley knocks it out with X-Scissor. Nim sends out Meowstic again, and both Grimsley and IronFist gang up on it with X-Scissor and Body Slam, knocking it out. With Meowstic out of the way, Grimsley and IronFist gang up on Duosion, knocking it out with X-Scissor and Body Slam. With no other Psychic Pokemon to face me, I win the battle!

Nim is inspired by my power, and honestly says that she didn't expect to win. However, she's learned a lot from that battle, and silently says that she'll maybe be able to return to her village after all... She promises that next time we meet, she'll beat me. She also says that as always, she owes me a gift. She says that I'll get it soon enough, but she should get me back on track. She thanks me, and says that she'll always be watching. She says goodbye, and takes me back to Route 4.

As I get back to Route 4, I see a big present in my way. I read the tag, which says this.

"To Trevo, I see you walk around a lot, and I'm pretty sure your legs get suppperrrr sore. So please take this as a token of my honest appreciation! Love, Nim~!"

I open it up, and it's a Bicycle! THANK YOU, NIM!!!~ However, as I continue on my quest, a mysterious person starts analyzing me, knowing my name as well. As I continue, they start analyzing where I'm going, and comes up with a resolution: Preventing me from doing so. Just then, a rock is placed in one of the paths, blocking my way. I battle a few trainers, and find a Brass Key in the foutain. I also see Mosley standing in front of a building, who's busy looking for a key. Is this brass key it? She notices me, and says that she was playing around with the keys, and then she threw it too hard, making her lose it. She heard a plump sound, and she couldn't find it ever since. She says that Maman is going to murder her now, and says that she has no idea where it is. However, she sees it in my hand, and I give it to her, letting her open the door. We head inside, and she takes me to Maman, who introduces herself to me. She says that this is a small grove area, but tells me not to be fooled, for they do not live the happiest lifestyle. She reveals that she takes care of children who have no where else to go. Just like Mosley here, many others have lost their parents for one reason or another. So, she brings them here, and gives them a place to stay. However, they do not have much space, as I can see. She says that if they had more money, they could expand this place, but says that's just another dream. Mosley asks me that if I ever have some change to spare, if I could help them out. She says that a lot of the kids here are tired of eating rations every day because it's so gross. Maman also adds that if I could find any lost children without a home, I should redirect them here. I'll give them some money later.

I leave the orphanage, and head towards the gate to Akuwa Town. However, as soon as I get to the doorway, the mysterious voice tells me to stop. It reveals that they cannot allow me to proceed as I am. Two rocks move in, and say that I am too much of a threat, and that they must... eradicate me quickly. They reveal themselves, and say a motto.

"We are one. We are two. We are... Neo Team Xen!" That explains why they dress so differently than Team Xen!

They reveal that they work under the shadows with Team Xen, and say that they are far more dangerous than the average grunt. They reveal that Madame X has come to the conclusion that her normal grunts are no match for me, so they stand here in purity, honesty, and reliability- that they take me down accordingly.

"We fight for life! We fight for death! Go!"

The Dynamic duo send out Azumarill and Alakazam, while I send out Grimsley and P.I.M.P. Grimsley knocks out Alakazam with X-Scissor, while the grunt sends out Vaporeon. Azumarill strikes with Muddy Water, knocking down P.I.M.P. after he strikes with Wing Attack. I send out Charles, who strikes at Azumarill with Wing Attack, while Grimsley Bounces on it, knocking it out. The grunt sends out Zoroark, who gets knocked out by Grimsley's X-Scissor, while Charles hits Vaporeon with Wing Attack. Together, Grimsley and Charles gang up on Vaporeon with X-Scissor and Wing Attack, and knock it out. With the TRUE Dynamic Duo still standing, I win the battle!

The two Neo grunts deem me too powerful, and issue my threat level to be Red. They then escape diligently and efficiently, while I merely just head straight through the gate to Akuwa Town. I head inside the gate, and find Aelita there. She is surprised to see me, and says that I caught up fast. What do you mean caught up fast? I spent an entire chapter after Narcissa training my Pokemon! You could have just gone through the gate already! She says that she would've been here faster, but she got lost on Route 4. She sets aside her embarrassment feats aside, and tells me that Akuwa Town is just up ahead.

Time to get my badge!

Current Stats:

The team has leveled up a little bit. Sheep has leveled up significantly with a few new moves! The only reason why I haven't evolved him yet is because of Thunder, which I may or may not teach it.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 44

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 45

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Heart Stamp, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Mareep

Name: Sheep

Level: 39

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 44

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XVII: The Akuwa Ghost Town Conspiracy, And Day Zero: Getting Arrested!

When we first get to Akuwa Town, we see an unconscious old man on the ground! Aelita rushes over to him, and asks if he's okay. She checks his pulse, only to find that he isn't breathing. She tells me to come over to her, and tells me that she doesn't know how long this guy was knocked out for, but she thinks we can still save him. She tells me that we're gonna need a defibrillator to charge a pulse on his body, and maybe if we do that, he'll wake up. She asks me if I could go to the Pokemon Center in town because they have plenty of defibrillators. She tells me to hurry because we don't have much time left, so I head there quickly. When I get to the Pokemon Center, nobody is there. I find a defibrillator on the left side, and take it over to Aelita, who quickly revives the old man with it. He wakes up, and wonders where he is. Aelita tells him that he's in Akuwa Town, and that her and I found him laying on the ground unconscious. The old man is shocked, but says that he feels as though he should tell us something. Unfortunately, he forgot exactly what. Aelita asks him if he needs help getting home, and he says that won't be necessary. He tells us not to mind him because he will be fine. Aelita is at least relieved that he is fine, and asks if he's seen a person named Saki around. The old man recognizes the name, but actually doesn't even recall the name. However, seeing as Saki is a gym leader, Aelita bets Saki would be at a gym. She asks the old man for the way to the gym, and he tells us to follow the path straight, and then take a turn, saying it should be around that corner. Aelita thanks him for the information, and says that she'll be heading there now. As she leaves, the old man talks to himself about warning us about the gym. He tells me that there really was something he needed to say about that gym, but he can't remember. I head to the Pokemon Center, and take Swoop out of the PC, since I might be using Swoop instead of Grimsley. I also find a young girl named Jessibelle near a building. I take her to the Lost Camp, and she leaves.

I head to the gym, passing two purple guards, and as soon as I try entering, Aelita steps out, and says that battle ended sooner than she thought. She says that something is really weird about this town, saying that everyone's gone, and the gym leader's a total pushover. She tells me that Saki isn't there, but says that since the leader is a pushover, I should be able to get my badge. She says we should hit two birds with one stone, and so I enter the gym. She tells me information about Valarie, but she didn't use a signature move, which is odd...

I head inside the gym, and find a green-skinned trainer. She assumes that I'm here for a badge, and tells me to get ready because I'm about to be washed away.

This is odd... REALLY odd...

All she sends out is an Alomola, which I defeat quickly because all it knows are Soak and Wish.

She says that I am too strong, and that my badge is waiting outside. As soon as I step outside, Aelita tells me that her badge isn't real. She tells me that it isn't an official Aevium Leage badge, because those are made with impenetrable paint, and the paint on her badge is scraping right off! Just then, the two officers that were standing there come over to us, and place us under arrest! Aelita is shocked, and I walk over to them, but they say that I'm under arrest too! Aelita explains to the officers that we did nothing wrong, and 'Valarie' comes out, telling the officers that we're the two who are responsible for the bomb threat. She tells them to arrest us, and to bring us to Blacksteeple Prison at once. The officers obey, and tell us that we're coming with them. Aelita says that something isn't right here, and asks if it's 'Valarie's' doing. However, she has nothing to say to us, as she orders the officers to take us away. Aelita is shocked, saying that this can't be happening. However, it is happening, because a moment later...

We get taken to prison! I DON"T WANT TO DIE YOUNG!!! I'M TOO YOUNG FOR JAIL!!!

At the front desk, the guard welcomes us to Blacksteeple Prison. He tells us that until further notice, we shall be spending our daily lives here. More like the REST of our lives! He tells us to not even think of sending out our Pokemon either because a special signal emitted from their servers counter the activation of Pokemon. Basically, our Pokeballs no longer function. He warns us before we do anything reckless, think about what he's said. Aelita asks him a quick question... She asks him what we even did to get arrested, and he completely ignores her, saying that our cell number is 104A, and that we shall be escorted momentarily.

WHY ARE WE IN PRISON?!?! I'm too cool and young to die! SOMEBODY HELP!!!

Current Stats:

Not much has changed. I taught Substitute to Swoop because I'm thinking of using Swoop to get out of here instead of Grimsley, but I don't know.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 44

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 45

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Mareep

Name: Sheep

Level: 39

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 44

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XVIII: The BlackSteeple Prison Conspiracy Day One: Meeting The Crew, And Infiltration!

DAY ONE

Me and Aelita get stuck in a cell together, next to three other prisoners. Aelita yells at the guards, saying that they can't keep us here because they won't even tell us the charges. What did we do, anyway? Aelita then rams the cell door, and gets frustrated. One of the cellmates in the other cell giggles, and tells Val that the newcomers are complaining like newborn babies. Aelita turns to them, and asks what that was. The prisoner jumps, and says that it's nothing, but tells her that maybe instead of banging the door like a ravenous orluga, we should keep calm and collected. Valarie then tells Saki to cool it because we're all in this prison now. We go into shock, because of the name Saki. Aelita asks her if she said Saki because we've been looking all over for her! Saki is confused, and asks if we've been looking for her. Aelita tells her that we need her help with something, but then asks if there's a Valarie with her in the cell. Saki says that she did say that, and that's because the beautiful, stylish, eccentric Valarie is present with her inside that horrid cell. Aelita gets confused because she wonders why the person who got us in jail is in jail with us. Valarie is confused, and asks what we're talking about, because she's never seen us in her life. Aelita was sure it was her, but Valarie says that whoever it was, they're responsible for them being here. Aelita asks Valarie if she knows why Akuwa Town was completely deserted, and Valarie explains that it's because everyone in the city was abducted. She says that includes her, Saki, and Adam, who is in the same cell as them, but he doesn't talk much. Valarie says that's because he's too upset he got beaten down during the invasion. She then explains that she's a marine biologist, and that she studies the sea and Water Pokemon. She tells us that Saki was visiting her because she was in the process of creating a chip that allowed speech in water Pokemon, and that Adam came to pick up a special stone they found in the water during their exhibition. However, all of a sudden, a weird organization came in huge numbers, and seized Akuwa's citizens. She says that we're all here on the island as we speak, and that we have to find some way to get out of this prison, because she's sure that it's not being run legally.

Just then, a guard comes in, and walks over to our cell. He asks if there is an Aelita present in our cell, and Aelita turns around, saying that she is she. The guard tells her that they're taking her to the Warden for interrogation. Aelita is shocked, and the guard tells her to start walking. Aelita turns to me, and tells me that she'll see me later. After the guard walks off with Aelita, Valarie says that's the first time she's heard of any prisoner going to interrogation. She's sure that whatever it is, it won't be good. She comes down, and wonders why Aelita.

Meanwhile...

Aelita is taken to the Warden's room, and the Warden is none other than Neved! He tells Aelita to take a seat, and she does. He asks Aelita if she would be so kind to answer a few questions for him, telling her to answer them correctly and truthfully, and then he won't have to use... drastic measures... He asks her if it's true that she's Keta's daughter. She's surprised, but says that Keta, or Sensei, was her father. Neved then asks her if she knew that he was in affiliation with Team Xen. She says that she didn't know at first, but he revealed himself to be a member at Carotos Mountain. Neved takes it for an answer, and asks her one final question. He asks her if it's true that Keta revealed their true intentions when he revealed himself as a Team Xen Grunt. Grunt? I thought he was slightly higher than the average grunt. Aelita tells him that Keta didn't, because he died before he could tell her anything. Neved is silent at first, but then tells her that she's lying. Aelita tries to defend herself, but he snaps, and asks her if he did not say to answer the questions honestly. Aelita says that she has been, and Neved tells her that she's going to make him do something he did not want to do, but it seems he has no choice. He then orders the guards to take her to the Electrical Rehabilitation Room, and it ends from there...

Back in our cells, Valarie is still surprised. However, in any event, we must devise a plan to get off this island. She says that she has a feeling that if we stay here for too long... we will never see the outside world again. Saki wonders where the heck Braixen is, and says that they were supposed to be back by now. Valarie says that she doesn't know, but our shifts are about to start soon, so we should get ready. She says that we'll talk later, and so we start our shifts.

We get taken outside, and the guard tells me that I'm not allowed back in my cell until I've finished today's work duty. He says that I'll need a Mining Kit to do my job, and so he gives me it. Well, that's one good thing that comes from this prison... He tells me to mine all of the rocks, and then he'll let me back in. I find Saki, Valarie, and Adam, and Adam is ticked. He says screw the guards for telling him what to do, and in third person, he says that he only mines when he wants to. I talk to Saki, and she only says what's up. I then talk to Valarie, who asks if we met before. She sees that I am Trevo, and apologizes for dragging me into this mess. In fact, she apologizes that any of us got stuck in this situation, and that if only she had been stronger... Anyways, she asks me if I like her prison outfit, and says that she designed it herself. Saki turns around, and tells Valarie that she's getting off topic. She apologizes to Saki, and tells me that this isn't a shabby place to be locked up. She says that we've got the water and the wide open field, but then says that this place sucks. Adam reminds her hat she's getting off topic again, and she realizes that. She gets back to the topic at hand, and says that they believe that this prison isn't being run legally. She tells me that she talked to most of the inmates, and most of them are just kids. She says that she has a hard time believing that these people have done anything wrong to get them locked up. Saki agrees, and says that she's also did her own snooping of her own, and she has come to a striking development. Valarie asks her what it is, and Saki says that everyone on this island has at least four badges. Valarie understands, and sees that it seems they're collecting trainers who've made significant badge progress. She is interested, and Adam also says that they also have three gym leaders captive. Valarie says that's correct, and reveals that besides her, Saki and Adam are also gym leaders. They introduce themselves as gym leaders, and Valarie tells me that in any case, I should finish up my duties, because inmates who fail to complete their assigned task get the electrical rehabilitation therapy upstairs. She says that it's totally not worth it, and I can get some nice things from the rocks scattered around. She tells me that they've already finished up their duties, so when I finish up mine, we can all go back inside together, because unity is key.

After I mine the rocks, I end up getting some cool stuff. I head over to the guard, and he says that's enough mining for today, and lets me go back to my cell.

Meanwhile...

Aelita is in the Electrical Rehabilitation Room with Neved, with her pinned to a wall, as he asks her the question one more time. He asks her what Keta told her about Team Xen, and she answers that she already told him that she doesn't know anything about what these idiots are doing. She tells him to let us go, and Neved apologizes to her, for she gives him no choice. He asks her if something will jog her memory, as he shocks her with volts of electricity.

Back in our cells, Valarie says that we've done one full day of work, and still no sign of Aelita. Adam wonders what happened, Saki also adds that Braixen's not back either, wondering where could she be. Valarie says that she wouldn't worry about Braixen, because she's quite capable of herself. I wonder who Braixen is? Valarie realizes that they never explained who Braixen is, and reveals that she's one of Saki's friends; a Pokemon that has the ability to use human speech! Anyways, Valerie tells me that Braixen said she was going to go snoop around the prison for info, but she hasn't returned. However, Valarie tells me not to worry too much, because she's quite powerful. Just then...

"*ALL PRISON INMATES TO THE AUDITORIUM IMMEDIATELY*"

Saki's surprised that we're required to go to the auditorium, and didn't even know that the prison had an auditorium. Valarie says we should get this over with, and so we head to the auditorium with all of the other inmates. Valarie says that this is the first she's heard of an auditorium being in here. Saki says that we learn something every day, and Adam just wants to learn some dang answers. Saki giggles, and tells Adam that he makes her giggle, because they have absolutely no reason to give us anything. Adam tells her to shut up, but a guard tells us to quiet down, for Warden Neved is about to speak. Neved finally speaks, and says that it has come to his attention that some of us think that this prison is a joke. He then takes this time to reassure us... that it is not. He tells us that we are all here for a special reason, a special reason indeed. He explains that to prove that he means business, he wants us to feast our eyes on Exhibit A: A rash girl who failed to cooperate with him in their interrogation. He tells Aelita to step forward, and she does, horrifying everybody as she has been electrocuted to the core. Saki is shocked, Valarie turns away, and the audience is shocked, with one even saying that they messed up her bright shiny hair. One is even cruel enough to ask what's for dinner. Not wanting to take this, I step forward, only to be stopped by Valarie, saying that we'll have our time. Neved turns to the audience, and silences everyone, as he explains that Aelita is the first patient for their "Electrical Rehabilitation" method. He warns that any inmate who refuses to cooperate with him or any of the guards here will receive the same punishment. He concludes his speech by reassuring us once again... that this is not a joke. He then turns to Aelita, and tells her not to think that her session has ended, because personally, he thinks that she needs a few more volts before he's convinced that she will kneel before her warden. What is this, a slave and master thing? That's just sick! Aelita is silent, and Neved says that is all for today, as he orders us to go back to our cells, which we do.

Back in our cells, Valarie is still shocked that they did that to Aelita. Saki freaks out, and says that we gotta get out of here, because she doesn't want to be bacon. Valarie smacks her and tells her to snap out of it. Saki moans in pain, and Valarie says that in any event, we have to devise a plan to save Aelita, and the others, because we cannot allow this abuse to go any further. She tells me not to worry, because she'll save Aelita herself. Just then, a mysterious voice asks us if we called it, and Braixen appears, saying that the princess has arrived. Saki happily greets her, saying that she's missed her. Braixen is flattered, and says that not only is her glamorousness a gift to us all, but she bears helpful info. Valarie asks her what she found, and she starts by saying that we are in a bigger situation than we originally feared. She says that the prison is much bigger than they theorized, and Adam asks how much bigger. Braixen scoffs, and tells him that impatience gets him nowhere. Adam asks if she can just tell them, and she obliges by saying that not only is the prison above ground, but there's a whole section below ground as well! She also adds on top of all that, there are even more people being held captive there as well! Valarie is shocked that there are more, and Braixen has no idea why they're down there, though, because most of them look like pretty normal individuals to her. All except for... a super famous Pop-Idol down there as well. Valarie and Braixen wonder what Pop-Idol was rocking a pink outfit, but I know EXACTLY who it is... MY MOTHER!!! Valarie asks me if I'm alright in here, and Braixen says that she knows they've been in a cell for a while, but she wonders why she's talking to a wall. Saki tells her that I'm Trevo, and I got snatched up like them, and my friend was also taken by the Warden. Adam says that there's someone behind the wall, and Braixen finally understands. Saki says that I'm Trevo again, and I got trapped with them. I tell them that Nancy is my mother, and they're shocked. Saki says that she feels irrelevant now, and Valarie says that this makes things so much harder to deal with. She says that she thought saving everyone above ground was already too ambitious, and now we have people below us to worry about. Braixen explains that during her reconnaissance, she was able to find the guard fitting area, and she managed to snag an extra uniform, which we can use to do some Grade A snooping! Valarie is pleased, and says that she will take responsibility for this task. However, I jump to the opportunity, so then I can find my mother and Aelita! Valarie is surprised that I would volunteer, and tells Braixen to give me the uniform. She warps over to my cell, and gives me a makeover, so now I look exactly like a guard. She says that being locked up in here won't give us anything either, so she teleports me outside of the cell. She says that they'll be waiting for me here, so I shouldn't let them down. I speak to all of the guards, and they respect me. When I speak to the inmates, they fear me.

When I speak to one of the guards in the healing room, I learn that Nancy IS on the island, and that her name was taken after her mother, who used to be the famous Pop Idol, Yancy, in the Unova region. Yancy is my GRANDMOTHER? Interesting... Then who are my father and grandfather?! The guard guesses that she just wanted to continue the lineage. Well if that was the case, then I'd be named Curtis or something. I'm not. I'm Trevo! Too bad I never had any siblings, though... I find a healing machine in that room, but no PC! I head into the Electrical Rehabilitation Room, and find an Up-Grade in the computer! I take a left, and find an elevator. I head to the second floor, and the guard is having trouble with the signal extender. He tells me that since Trevo and Aelita got on the island, all of the machines have been going haywire. How odd. I don't think I had anything to do with this, did I? He tells me that he currently has a Pokemon charging up the generator, but it looks vicious. He asks me if I can take care of the Pokemon while he replaces it with another, and I say yes. He thanks me, because it means a lot. He says that the signal in this room is busted, so we can handle it. We count to three, and I battle a Voltorb. I catch it, and name it Electro. The guard says that whether I caught it, fainted it, or let it go, it doesn't matter to him. He says that as long as he was able to replace it, which he did. He thanks me for helping him out, and I head ti the third floor.

When I head to the third floor, I enter Neved's office, and he's been waiting for me for ages, while the rest of the guards are already there. I head in front of the guards, and I see Aelita sitting on a couch. One of the guards asks Neved when things are finally going to go through, and Neved tells him that it will be very soon, because Madame X has been notified of my presence, and of the gym leaders. He tells us that she'll be arriving on the island in approximately 48 hours. Counting today, so... the day after tomorrow. The guards are shocked and horrified that she's coming here, and Neved says that is what he said. The guard asks him what exactly she will be doing here, and he says that after she leaves here tomorrow (The day after tomorrow, to be correct), this place will be "abandoned." The guard is horrified, and asks if she's going to slaughter everyone on the island. Neved says that question is correct, because why else would they gather all these powerful trainers in one place? He reveals that after my meddling, Madame X has decided that leaving powerful trainers alone is too dangerous. He also reveals that Ms. Aelita here will be the first one to be sliced in two by her. Once again, Aelita is silent. He also reveals that's the reason why the abducted Valerie, the gym leader of Akuwa Town. He says that some of the grunts are unfortunately too incapable of doing an anonymous capture, and got everyone in town involved. He says that it's fine, though, because they left a nice Dexoy to take her place. The guard doesn't know what a Dexoy is, but Neved explains that they are clones of the Pokemon Deoxys that are being created by Nastasia's Dimensional Rift. Nastasia can create Dimensional Rifts, too? Who knows how powerful she is in battles! Neved also tells us another reason why we're here, and that's because he's been receiving faulty signals from the Pokeball neutralizing device. He explains that if that thing is broken, it'll sever the extended signal, and the prisoners would be able to use their Pokemon once again. He suggests that one of us goes down there and fixes it unless we want a riot on our hands. The guards obey, and Neved says that is all for now. He tells us that Madame X will be arriving in approximately 48 hours as well. However, one of the guards asks what of the prisoners below the island. Neved asks if he's talking about the S.S. Oceana ones, and says that they're going too. He tells us that we can't have anymore witnesses than there already have been. The guard asks one more question, as he asks about a beast that's hidden under the island. He wonders what Neved is going to do about it, and Neved tells us that is classified information. The guard understands, and Neved says that if that's it, we should get going immediately. He tells me that Madame X will be here in two days, so we need to prepare for her arrival. With everything that's said, I leave.

You need the machine fixed? Oh I'll get it fixed...

I head to the elevator, only to find Braixen there! She tells me that it's time to head back to the cell, because this is the only private area she gets to send me back there. Once we're there, she gets me back to normal, and says that hopefully I look like myself. Valarie asks me what I found out, and I tell them everything. Saki freaks out, and asks if we're going to be cattle. Valarie says that this is unsettling, but she can't say that she didn't expect this kind of thing. This is exactly what she feared most, too. Saki says that we have to dip now, because she doesn't want to stay here forever. Adam says that we're getting out of here, and says that he isn't about to let a girl kill him. Saki asks what do we do, and Braixen teleports to their cell, saying that we fight back. Adam asks how we're supposed to do that, and says that she may be a Pokemon, but he doubts she can single-handedly take down every guard in this prison. Braixen sarcastically thanks him for having faith in her, and Valarie says that we have to keep cool. She says that regardless of our status, the day is over, so that leaves tomorrow, and then the day after. She says that we have beach duty tomorrow, so we can talk then, so we should get some rest.

Time to fry this system! Mother... I'm on my way!

Current Stats:

Nothing has changed. I'm in prison, so I can't use any Pokemon while the machine still runs.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 44

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 45

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Mareep

Name: Sheep

Level: 39

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 44

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XIX: The BlackSteeple Prison Conspiracy Day Two: Destruction Of Property!

DAY TWO

I get taken outside to the beach, and I'm told to do mining duty. I mine all of the rocks, and get some cool stuff. Adam finds a Plume Fossil, while Saki and Valarie devise a way off the island. Valarie greets me, and says that Saki and she devised a small scheme to get off the island. She asks if I've taken notice to the deck in the front, and explains that every time someone is transported here, they're brought here by boat. She remembers that Madame X will be making her way here soon, but asks me what what way will she arrive here by. She answers her own question by saying that she will be arriving by boat. Valarie says that they have a plan that will get all of us off the island, and trap Madame X here for a small time frame. She explains that right before she arrives, we're going to start an uprising. And then when she actually arrives, we'll ambush her! Valarie says that Madame X may be tough, but not tough enough to take on all of us. Then we're going to take the ship and get out of this place! However, there's only one small problem with that plan. She says that our Pokeballs are disabled, so we can't call out our Pokemon. She says that the guard up front told them that there's a signal that counters the signal used to release Pokemon, so we need to find that countering signal and destroy it. It's easier said than done, but we have to try. Saki comes over to us, and tells us that we have to see something. Valarie tells me that we should go see what all the hubbub is about, so we do. What Saki shows us is an entrance to a cave. Valarie is surprised, and Adam says that there was a rock blocking the entrance, and rocks don't scare him, for he pushed it in the ocean. Valarie complements him, and says that we might as well see what's inside. She says that we still have a few minutes before we're required to go back in our cells, so we head inside quickly.

When we head inside, we find a machine! This must be the machine making the signal! Saki says that this machine does not look fully operational at all because there are severed wires everywhere! She also sees that the machine broadcasts the neutralizing signal upwards and downwards. She concludes that it's definitely a faulty machine, and it doesn't take its own location into account. Valarie is intrigued, as this cave is not a natural cave. She explains that it's been carved into this circular whatchumacallit, but says that this machine here controls the signal that neutralizes our Pokeballs! She wonders if there's a way to deactivate the signal, but realizes that the machine isn't working properly. Saki tells us that it's half busted, and Valarie realizes that our Pokeballs work in this room! Adam is surprised, and tries it himself, but sees that she's right. However, what's concerning is that Pokeballs don't work directly above this area, and that they just seem to function properly while in this room. Adam says that it's because it's half busted, and Saki says that it's more faulty than busted. Valarie asks what she means, and she explains that inspecting the wires a little more closely, it leads both upwards, and downwards. The machine itself doesn't give out the neutralizing signal, it only extends it. However, due to the massive amount of frequency that the machine gives out, it nulls in this room. Bascially, it means that a negative and a negative equals a positive. Basic math... Valarie sees that the machine is backfiring on itself, and sees that having our Pokeballs work down here means nothing to us, so we're going to have to cut the signal from above and below us. However, how are we supposed to do anything if the main computer component isn't even on? Saki says that there are panels next to the machine, and when she lifts them slightly, she can see wiring underneath them, which means that they're definitely important to this machine's function. She wonders if there's something around here that we can use to put in those slots, and wonders if someone took these parts and cut the power. She says that the computer is probably still extending the signal because of some emergency generator or something, but if we can power the computer completely, we can just shut it all off from here. However, we'll need to find those components that were removed, first. Valarie then tells all of us to look around. However, while they do nothing, I look around, and find an Opal Stone! I show it to Valarie and Saki, and Saki tells me to plug it in. I plug it in, and it works halfway! Saki says that I've done it, and Valarie tells us that only half of the monitor responded to that gem. Adam is mad, but Valarie finds an option to check off from the screen. She sees that it says "Drain On", and says that it's blurry. She activates it, and the cave shakes, draining all of the water from it! Hopefully it didn't cause too much of a tremor upstairs. Saki says that the tremor shaves our time by about five minutes or so, and Adam sees the whole area that the water was hiding, and he bets a whole lot of money that's where the S.S. Oceana victims are being held. Valarie agrees, and says that there isn't anywhere else on the island where they could be. She says we shouldn't dawdle any longer, because we don't have much time left. They all head down there, and Saki asks me if I want to see my mom. However, as I head down the steps, three Slowpoke come out! I catch all of them, and name them accordingly. Well, two of them. One, I accidentally killed. I then find a ladder, and head down.

Valerie says that she didn't expect it to be this easy, but still. She says that there are guards down here, and their Pokeballs don't work anymore. She wonders what makes this room different from upstairs, but Saki realizes something. She asks us what appeared in every single room we couldn't use our Pokemon, and says that it's the monitors and the wires. She explains that the signal is sent via the metal cables and broadcasted through the monitors, which explains why we could use our Pokemon in the cave, because there were no monitors there. Now all of a sudden, the monitors are back, and we can't use our Pokemon anymore. Adam asks why we can't just send out our Pokemon in the cave and come back, and Saki explains that whoever built this place definitely thought that through, by making the ladder really thin so only humans can get through it. She humorously says that she's surprised that Adam could fit through, and giggles. Adam asks her why must she insult him, and she says that it's only because she loves him. Valarie says that there is only one guard, so Adam says that he has the first one, which he does by going over to beat the guard up. I follow them, and Adam indeed murdered the poor guard by overdoing it, as Saki says. Valarie says that they were a threat to our lives, so they had to be dealt with accordingly. Valarie says that we only have a few minutes left before curfew, so we should keep going. We head inside, and I find everyone in cells. I head to the other room, and find the rest of the gang. However, I also find my mother and Augustus trapped in the cell! Valarie says that we found them, but she must ask something difficult of me. She says that we must leave my mother and the rest of the inmates locked up until tomorrow, because we only have 8 minutes until our curfew is due, and even if we released them now, then what? She tells me that they wouldn't be able to do anything, and they'd just lag us behind. She says that we know that they are here, and they are safe. She promises that we'll come back to get them tomorrow, and asks Mother and Augustus if they can hear her from here. Mother wonders who's there, and Augustus is surprised. Valarie introduces herself, and says that she's here with her friends Saki and Adam. She also says that they're here with someone very special to her, and introduces me. Mother is shocked to see me, and Augustus can't even believe it. Valarie says that I'm with them, and that we unfortunately got captured by the Warden, and are imprisoned. However, she tells them that we are planning an escape, and that tomorrow, Madame X will be arriving on the island on her boat. She says that if we can deactivate the machine by tomorrow, we will be able to fight back and hijack their boat. That is the plan, at least. She tells them that we can't free all of them now, but promises that we'll be back tomorrow. Mother understands, as what must be done, must be done. And that includes leaving her here. What! Why can't you come with us, Mother?! She says that she loves me very much, but knowing that I am safe would bring her more joy than freedom. Valarie compliments her on her bravery, and promises to come back for her no matter what.

We then leave, and hear a couple of guards, and they're finding out that somebody activated the drain system. Valarie tells us to be quiet, and says that there are guards here, which means we'll have to take them out. She says our Pokeballs work here, so we can rebel against them! We get to another spot, and she asks me if I can help her take out one of the guards. She warns me though, because even though they may be guards, we don't know what kind of power they hold. We head up to the guards, who are stressed out. It's the guards that were with me at that meeting! The other guard says that they should go and report this to Neved immediately. However, we step in, and Valarie says that they can deal with us. They're shocked, and see that we're the ones who drained the water. The other guard says that's fine, because they'll beat us into submission. Umm, no. We'll beat YOU into submission. Valarie says that if we were in the prison, she would be really scared right now. But this isn't the prison, and we can use our Pokemon here. The guards get scared, and Valarie says that we're going to take all of our anger out on them. We end up beating them easily, and then Adam comes to finish the job by beating them up. He hides the bodies away, and finds the other gem on one of the guards! Valarie realizes that they were trying to reset the signal since it was failing, and Adam says we should activate the machine. He puts the other stone in place, and the machine is fully activated again. She sees that her Pokeballs no longer work in here, so now we can disable the signal immediately. She heads over to the monitor, and shuts the signal down, saying that when the time is right, we can fight back. Saki comes in, saying that we're out of time, and that we gotta leave now. Valarie tells me that they'll be leaving, so if I have anything else I need to do, I should do it quickly, because tomorrow we fight back. She says goodnight, and they all head back to their cell. I explore the cave, and find a Rare Candy on one of the bodies! With that done, I head back to the guard outside, and call it a day.

Soon... We shall be free once again...

Current Stats:

Nothing has changed, but at least I can use my Pokemon again.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 44

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 45

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Water Pulse

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Calm Mind

Mareep

Name: Sheep

Level: 39

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 44

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

[Tringus]

Chapter XX: The BlackSteeple Prison Conspiracy Day 3: The Glorious Yet Tragic Escape, Melia's Dramatic Return, And The Marine Biologist Valarie!

DAY 3

Back in the cells, Valarie explains the plan. She says that today is the day, and Madame X reaches BlackSteeple Prison today. She asks all of us if we are ready to survive, and one by one, we all say yes. Valarie turns to me, and says that she will go and free the prisoners underground, Saki and Adam will free the prisoners in the main building, and she needs me to go save Aelita because we have no time to lose. It's time to wipe Team Xen out. She sends out Lapras, and it destroys the gate. Saki declares freedom, and Adam says that we won't die here. Braixen agrees, and the guard nearby is shocked that the cell door's busted. As he goes over to confront them, he ends up getting frozen by Lapras's Ice Beam! Lapras then goes over to my cell, and Valarie tells the others to get the rest of the prisoners out of here. She tells them to be careful, and Saki says the same, as they all leave as Valarie tells them to stay safe. She turns to Lapras, and orders it to get me out of here. Lapras busts the door down, and Valarie compliments her. She returns her to her Pokeball, and tells me that she'll go after my mother, so I should go get Aelita. She wishes me good luck, and leaves. Sure enough, as I pass through, every door is busted.

When I leave the cell room, I find a few guards frozen, and a young girl fighting off a guard and his Glameow with a Jigglypuff. Seriously? These two suck as trainers. Just saying. I head into the other room, and see Saki fighting off a guard with her Klinklang. I battle some of the guards who aren't battling, and then head to the Healing Room. I beat the grunt with the Kanto starters, and he mentions that he failed Madelis. Is she here, too? He warns me that I'm going to have a rude awakening, and so I heal my Pokemon. Surprisingly, the other two guards in the room are too lazy to do anything. With that said, I battle the grunt at the top left corner, and beat him. Before I go to the elevator room, I heal my Pokemon, then head inside.

When I head to the room, a mysterious voice says that it's been a while. However, Madelis steps out of the elevator, and greets me. She says that I sure caused her a lot of drama back at HQ, and because of me and that wretched Crescent, she lost Shadow Mewtwo. She gets enraged, and tells me that she's going to show me the pain she has suffered.

You want pain? I'll bring the pain. Let's go!

Madelis sends out Houndoom while I send out Metchan, who gets hit by Houndoom's Thunder Fang, but hits Houndoom with High Jump Kick. Madelis heals Houndoom with a Hyper Potion, but it gets hit with another High Jump Kick, knocking it out. She sends out Sharpedo, who knocks out Metchan, so I send out Kidnapper and build up with Minimize. None of its attacks hit, and once Kidnapper sets up, I switch him out with Baton Pass for Swoop, who Substitutes himself, and Endeavors. He then finishes Sharpedo off with Air Slash. Madelis sends out Skuntank, who gets hit by Swoop's Endeavor and Air Slash, knocking it out. Madelis sends out Zwelious, who also falls from the Endeavor-Air Slash combo. Madelis sends out Shifrty, but it, too, is no match for the Endeavor-Air Slash combo. With Madelis's Dark-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Madelis is disappointed that this happened again, and I'm just as she remembers. She sees that I've gotten so much stronger, and says that she should have ended me there when she had the chance. She says I can do what I want, but vows that this isn't over... yet. She leaves, and then I go and heal my Pokemon. I head to the second floor, but the guard there tells me that there's nothing for me and there, so he tells me to get. I head to the third floor, and head into Neved's Office.

When I head inside his office, he sees that I've finally made it. He invites me to come over to his desk, for we need to have... a little chat. I head over to his desk, and he sees that Madelis, once again, has failed to stop me in my tracks. However, he expected that. Aelita is surprised to see me, and I turn over to her. Neved stops me, and tells me to ignore her, for she's nothing but a husk of broken emotions. In a way, he pities her, but tells me not to take this the hard way, for he only does what he must. He assures me that my death will be for the greater good, and that we are all nothing but bacteria clinging to the flesh of Team Xen. He sees that I don't care for all of that stuff, and says that kids these days have no sense of wisdom, no pride. However, he says that he has all of those things, and vows that he will show his pride. His pride in his power to delete me. He vows that he will not lose to me, or anyone. And with that said, the battle begins.

You want to delete me? It's going to have to take a lot more than locking me up and frying my friend. When I'm done with you, it'll be you who's deleted.

Xen Warden Neved sends out Weavile, while I send out Roggenroll, who sets up Stealth Rock around Neved's side of the field. Roggenroll goes down from Weavile's brutal attacks, but not before hitting Weavile with a Mud Slap, making it lose its accuracy. Taking advantage of this, I send out Kidnapper, and start having it Minimize. Kidnapper then uses Baton Pass to switch out to Fang, who builds up with Bulk Up, Substitute, and Agility. Once that's done, I have Kidnapper use Baton Pass to switch out with Metchan, who builds up with Calm Mind, then wipes out Weavile with High Jump Kick. Neved sends out Froslass, so I Baton Pass Metchan for Swoop, who knocks out Froslass with Air Slash. Neved sends out Barbaracle, who goes down from Swoop's Psychic. Neved sends out Aurorus, who also goes down from Swoop's Psychic. Neved sends out Gastrodon, who just doesn't stand a chance against Swoop's buffed up Psychic. With Neved's Ice and Water-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Neved is surprised that a mere child can hold so much power, and is shocked that mere children can have the power to rebel this much. He says that it's unspeakable and unheard of, and says that it's completely incomprehensible by all means. Aelita gives it to him straight, and says that he lost because he's weak. Neved turns to her, and asks that if he's the weak one, then what does it make her. He calls her complete and utter garbage, and also has the balls to say "Just like your father." Aelita is silent, but then unleashes her emotions at him, sending out her Mienfoo to knock him to a wall! She asks if she's garbage, and says that she'll show him who's the real trash in this room. She gets up, and walks over to him, telling him not to smudge her father's name because if he does, she will kill him. She turns to me and thanks me for coming back for her. However, Neved and she need to have a small chat. She says that she'll meet me downstairs, and she can handle herself... really. Neved wonders what she could possibly gain from killing him, and calls her foolish, while she says that she can take care of things from here. I leave the room, and if I turn back, it says that Aelita asked for privacy... Oh gosh... What does THAT mean? I head down to the first floor, and heal my Pokemon. I then head to the exit, and Valarie is there waiting for me. She says that we're ready to go, but wonders where Aelita is. I reassure her that she's fine, and say that she wanted to be alone with Neved for a bit. It STILL sounds weird if you think about it... She accepts, and says that we're going to have to prepare for Madame X now because she should be here at any moment! She tells me to make sure I'm done with everything in here because we won't be coming back to this wretched prison again. We then leave.

Meanwhile...

Aelita takes Neved to the Electrical Rehabilitation Room, and laughs. She's amazed at how the tables have turned, and says that he knew she wasn't lying, right from the beginning. She tells him that she knew it all along, but he did it out of spite. He wanted revenge because her father betrayed them all back at Carotos Mountain, and she tells Neved that he knew that Keta's eyes would fill with despair after seeing her tortured over and over and over again. She tells him to listen to her, and she promises that she's going to make the rest of his life a living hell. And she can even assure him of that. She tells him to prepare to be fried, and he tells her to do her worst.

"Bastard child."

While Neved gets electrocuted over and over and over again, Valarie and I step outside, and I see my mother there, waiting for me. She says that she thought she would never see me again. She sees that I've gotten so strong as well, and says that my father would be so proud of me. WHO IS MY FATHER?!?! Valarie breaks the reunion by saying that we should celebrate once we get off this island. She says that Madame X's boat should be here any moment, and we can't waste anymore time than we already have! She says that we should make our way to the docks immediately, and Mother agrees. She says that Augustus is already at the docks as well, so we're all set. I follow them, and Mother says that she will help me in any way she can. I talk to Valarie, who tells me that Saki, Adam, Braixen, and the others are already by the docks. However, I decide to check Mother's cell for anything, and she dropped a Pixie Plate! I can't turn back to the building itself, so now I am ready to face Madame X and leave. I tell Valarie that I'm ready, and she says that we should get prepared for Madame X.

However...

A Pokemon roars into the night sky, and we're all horrified. Just then, a woman dressed in dark purple armor drops down from the sky, with Yveltal swooping down behind her! Valarie is shocked, and says that can't be Madame X. Madame X then asks us what is the meaning of this uprising. She looks at us, and assumes that we are the ones responsible for this disturbance. Valarie is still shocked that she didn't come by boat, and Mother is in shock as well. Valarie wonders if she assumed too much, and if it's the end for all of us. She says that there isn't any way to escape with everyone now, and Madame X wonders what the meaning of this is. However, we look up, and see that a present has landed right in front of Madame X! Could it be? Valarie asks if it's a present, and the present whispers to Madame X that it has a secret to tell her. It says that if she hurts any of it's friends, it'll kill her. That includes anyone on the island as well. The present explodes, revealing none other than Nim! This must be her extravagant entrance! She then starts cloning herself, too!

"ONE PLUS ONE IS TWO! ONE PLUS TWO IS THREE! With the power of three, we can withstand anything! Can't you see?"

Nim is showered with applause, and she thanks the audience, as she tells the Nims to hold their power together, and hold Madame X in place. They perform their magic, and the deed is done. Nim says that was easy, and that no one hurts me when she's around. That's a true friend right there! Let's get out of here before she can escape! However, as Nim is laughing, Madame X breaks free from her prison, and taunts Nim. Nim is scared, and Madame X starts doing her own math as she warps over and grabs one of the Nim clones.

"'One minus three is two." Umm... no it's not.

Just then, she eliminates that one.

"One minus two is one." No it's not!

And then that Nim is eliminated.

"One minus one is... zero." FINALLY you got one right! You really suck at math!

Nim begs her not to hurt her, and Valarie nearly cries in agony for Nim, but just as Madame X is about to kill her, a mysterious figure orders Togekiss to use Aura Sphere, as she knocks Madame X and Nim back, freeing Nim. Madame X is unphased, but Nim seems surprised. I step up, and see if Nim's alright. She asks me if I did that, but I didn't. Do you THINK I can talk? No. I'm a silent protagonist. LIKE MOST POKEMON GAMES! Madame X says that it is such weakness, attacking a person from a distance instead of upfront. She demands that they show themselves, and so they do. Just then, MELIA drops from the sky! MELIA!!! Madame X is surprised to see Melia alive, and Melia sees that she remembered her, saying that she's so flattered. She then grabs Madame X, who demands her to let go. However, she doesn't, as she tells Madame X that she's caused her a lot of trouble, but she's going to end her reign immediately. Madame X says that Melia's words hold substance, and reveals that she knew Melia was alive because she could feel it in her blood. Melia tells her to stop talking and die, while Madame X is pitiful. She says that even if Melia was capable of such a task, there is no way off this island. Melia asks her if she underestimates her that much, and reveals that she brought a ship with her, much to Madame X's dismay. In fact, she even brought one of Madame X's own ships. She says that it was quite easy for her, and tells Madame X to give Eli and Sharon a kiss for her later. Madame X is surprised, and denies it, while Melia says it is currently at the docks as we speak. She reveals that while Madame X was kept busy doing her little game with Nim, she got everyone on board, and Madame X is the last problem. Madame X pushes her back, calling her a foolhardy girl. She says that she acts with such boldness, such resolve. However, except for the fact that she's walked right into their grasp. Madame X vows that she will not allow her to slip so easily, and decides to end this now. Melia turns over to me, and tells me that we have much to speak about, but now isn't the time. She tells me to get everyone on board, now, same with Nim. Nim is shocked, and Melia says that she'll take care of Madame X. Nim tells us that we have to get out of here, and Melia tells me that she'll get Aelita, too, so I shouldn't worry. She tells me to go, but as soon as we go, Madame X snaps.

"Such insolence! Those who don't bow to my wrath shall be crushed by it! By the sharpness of my blade, Senketsuken, I shall obliterate anyone who defies me!"

She warps over to right behind me, and says that she doesn't remember giving me any permission to leave, and Mother tells me to look out. Madame X tells me to fall to her wrath, and so she attacks...

However...

Instead of me getting stabbed, I end up switching places with my MOTHER!!! Valarie is horrified, and Melia is silent. Mother tells me that she wishes for nothing more than my survival. She says this to all of us... especially me... She says that it's just like she said; She gets no greater joy than knowing that I am safe. She tells me to survive for her as she takes her last breath, and dies. Madame X says that it was a meaningless endeavor, and throws my own mother aside. She is disgusted to see that my own mother sacrificed herself to save me, and says that she has never seen such weak hearted humans.

"Only those with power can change this world, but what power do you have when you're dead?" Um... Necromancy. Or, NecroNancy, in this case...

Madame X says that she thought people as simple as Nancy knew of this notion, but it appears not. She shrugs it off, and says that her sacrifice meant nothing. She takes out her blade again, and says that it won't stop her blade from cutting me in two right now. Just then, the battle begins.

OH MY GOSH! YOU KILLED MY MOTHER!! YOU BASTARD!!! DIE!!!!

Xen Dictator Madame X sends out a LEVEL 100 YVELTAL, while I send out Roggenroll, who Stealth Rocks the entire area. Roggenroll gets knocked out by Yveltal's Dark Pulse, so I send out Mr. Muffintops, who manages to paralyze and confuse Yveltal with Thunder Wave and Sweet Kiss while Yveltal tries to pull Sucker Punches against him. While Yveltal is paralyzed and hurts itself, Mr. Muffintops Flashes it several times. Once Mr. Muffintops Flashes Yveltal enough and re-confuses it, I switch him out for Kidnapper, who starts Minimizing and using Amnesia. Once he builds up, I Baton Pass him for Fang, who builds up with Bulk Up and Agility, while Yveltal keeps getting paralyzed and missing. Once Fang's done, I Baton Pass him for Metchan, who sets up Calm Minds. Once that's done, I Baton Pass him for Swoop, who instantly knocks out Yveltal with a few Air Slashes. Madame X sends out Garchomp, who is also level 100. It gets hit with Swoop's Endeavor, while missing its attacks on Swoop, and after a few Psychics from Swoop, Garchomp is down. Madame X sends out Goodra, who gets hit from Swoop's Endeavor. After a few Air Slashes and one Psychic, Goodra is down. Madame X sends out Volcarona, who severely gets hurt by the Stealth Rock. After landing two Air Slashes from a surprisingly obedient Swoop, Volcarona is down. Madame X sends out Salamence, who surprisingly strikes back. However, after an Endeavor and an Air Slash, Salamence is down. Madame X finally sends out her Hydreigon as her last Pokemon, and after an Endeavor flinch hax from a couple Air Slashes, Swoop knocks Hydreigon down. With all of Madame X's Pokemon defeated, I surprisingly win the battle!

Madame X is shocked, and tells her father that she has lost. She says that it's impossible, and Melia tells Nim to trap her. She freezes Madame X in place, and Melia tells us to get on board now. Valarie says we should go, and we do, leaving Madame X and Mother behind... I pass through the frozen guards, and head through the docks, where I see a big Xen ship. Valarie tells me that we have to leave now, and I'm ready to leave. She apologizes to me because she promised she would free my mother, but then shrugs it off, saying we can talk later. For now, we must leave. Aelita arrives, and says that she is ready to go. Valarie is happy to see Aelita safe, and asks about Melia. Melia arrives, and Valarie asks about Madame X. Melia says that they saw each other eye to eye for now. And when she says that, she knocked her against the building, and we should get out of here fast. And so we leave.

Madame X... You're lucky that I only destroyed your whole team. The next time we meet, I'll end you... But not just you... but the entire Team Xen.

On the ship, I cry silently to myself in my cabin, when Adam comes in. I turn around, and he says that he just wanted to come in and apologize about what happened to my mother. And he means it, too. He says that it's no one's fault, but he can't help but feel like he shares the blame for this, because if he was there... things would have be different. He says that he just wanted to see how I was doing and all, so he'll see me later. He says bye, and leaves.

I head outside of my cabin, and find Nim and Braixen. Nim loudly apologizes about my mother's death, and apologizes for not knowing how to do these things. Braixen apologizes about what happened, and promises that she'll get stronger so that she can protect everyone. I head into a big room, and find Adam again, who promises that he'll beat Madame X's head in for murdering my mother, and that I can hold him to that. I head outside, and find Saki, who says that she can fly. Don't fly too much, Saki. I also find Valarie upstairs, and she sincerely apologizes about what happened, claiming that it was her fault because she should've thought things more clearly. I also talk to Augustus in his quarters, and he tells me that we will be heading to Gearen City within a few days.

I head downstairs, and find Melia in a cabin. She turns around, and sees that it's me. She says that it must be very weird to see her after so long, and guesses that I want some answers, which I do. She says that she's here to give them to me, and reveals them to me. She tells me that ever since the time she escaped from Jenner's office, she's been on a grand adventure. She says that after Houndoom attacked Togepi, it teleported her on top of a building. She got out, and quickly took the train to Route 2, scared beyond imagination. Then, she fled to Amethyst Cave, and got attacked by Team Xen. Unfortunately, she hit a dead end... but then two people saved her, who told her that she needed to lay low for a while. So... she had to fake her death for a while. After that, she had to do... things. She promises that she'll explain that later, and tells me not to worry because they were nice people. She tells me that she did feel bad for leaving me in the lab with Madelis, but she just had to get out fast. She says that she missed me, Ren, and Venam, but ends the conversation. However, she sees my Snag Machine, and wonders what the heck happened to it. She sees that it had a power failure or something, and says that she'll get it fixed up in no time. However, she decides to fix it up for me right away, and she does. However, she also has something awkward to ask... Shipping confirmed? She says that it's been a really long time since she's seen me, and she knows that I've gotten better at battling. She says that she needs to test my skills, and when I'm ready, I should meet her outside. Yup, I knew it would be something else. However, she also wants me to check up on Aelita before I do that, because she's been pretty depressed lately. Melia leaves, while I go check up on Aelita.

I head into Aelita's cabin, and talk to her. She greets me, and says that she's feeling much better than she was at the prison. She says that she wasn't herself then, and it was scary. She says that it was like her soul and her father's became one, and she was enraged then. She says that all she know is, that when she gets back to the Floria District, she's going to buy a new headband because she's still not used to having her hair down like this. Are you kidding? It looks good on you. She thanks me for checking up on her, and says that she's going to go outside to get some fresh air. She leaves, and I head out there too.

I head out to the deck, and Melia asks me if I can go ask the Captain if it's okay to have a battle here, because that honestly slipped her mind. She tells me that he's currently upstairs on the upper deck, and tells me that I should go consult Aelita because she's really depressed lately. I thought I already did that! I head up to Augustus's quarters, and he apologizes and is saddened by what happened to my mother. He tells me that she was always brave, and did things without thinking, as I saw before... However, he says that he must tell me something. He tells me that she predicted her death ever since they were locked in that cell, and she knew it was inevitable. He says that she wanted to give me this if anything ever happened to her... He gives me a Mawile, which I name Nancy. He tells me that this was a spawn from one of her own Mawile, and she wanted to give me a gift to remember her by. I ask him if it's alright to have a battle on the ship, and he supposes that a battle on the outer deck wouldn't be so bad. Oh, really? Then explain why it's possible to have a battle with a breeder inside of the ship! He tells me to make sure not to break anything, and so I leave.

After training Nancy a little bit, I head outside, and Melia waits for me. She says that she can't believe the last time we battled was at Goldenleaf Cave, and back then, she wasn't really able to fend for herself against Team Xen. However, she's different now, as she feels that she's regained... everything. What an odd thing to say... She says that the power in her Pokemon is unimaginable, and with that said, we battle.

Melia, you are certainly one odd girl. Anyways, let's go!

Enigma Melia sends out Fortitude the Zoroark, while I send out Grimsley, who strikes Fortitude down with X-Scissor. Melia sends out Faith the Yanmega, while Grimsley Smacks Down Faith in two hits. Melia sends out Diligence the Pupitar, who instantly gets knocked out by Grimsley's Water Pulse. Melia sends out Hope the Gardevoir, who knocks out Grimsely with Moonblast after Grimsley attacks with X-Scissor. I send out Kidnapper, but he instantly gets knocked out by Hope's Shadow Ball. I send out Nancy, who nearly knocks down Hope with Sucker Punch. However, Hope survives, and knocks down Nancy with Shadow Ball. I send out Charles, and he burns Hope down with Flame Burst. Melia sends out Happiness the Togekiss, while I send out Sheep. She also says that she never gets tired of this rush and this excitement, and Sheep begins by paralyzing Happiness with Thunder Wave. Unfortunately, he gets knocked out before he could even do that, so I send out IronFist so I can revive Sheep. IronFist gets knocked out by Happiness's Air Slash, so I send out Charles and heal Sheep with a Super Potion. After a few attacks from Charles, Happiness knocks Charles down with Air Slash. I send out Sheep, and he works his magic by paralyzing Happiness with Thunder Wave this time, and confuses Happiness as well with Confuse Ray. After Happiness hits itself, Sheep actually knocks it out with a critical hit Discharge. With Melia's Shiny Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Melia says that even now, she is not strong enough to defeat me. She says that just as she has grown stronger, I have as well. She thanks me for battling with her, and just as she's about to speak, Valarie sees land. Melia is surprised, because she didn't see any land. At the edge, Saki still believes she can fly, and Valarie tells us to brace for impact. With that said, Saki actually flies overboard as we hit land! Good job, Saki... It looks like you CAN fly, after all... Melia is shocked, and Aelita tells everybody to get off the ship.

We go on shore, and Valarie wonders what is going on. She says that this island was totally not here just a second ago, and that it just sorta appeared. Melia, however, recognizes this place, as it looks familiar to her. She then realizes that it's Terajuma Island, an island that was once a part of the Aevium Region. She explains that unfortunately, it drifted much farther than any of the other parts of the region, and Valarie asks her if she's been here before. Melia says yes, and says that this is where she was taken after Spacea and Tiempa saved her. She realizes that she hasn't mentioned those names yet, and says that it's a lot to explain, so it'll have to wait for next time. She sees that Saki flew to the west, and says that we'll have to traverse through Terajuma Jungle to reach her. However, there's one slight problem... She explains that the Jungle is filled with large pools of water, which means that we'll need Surf to progress. Luckily for everyone, she has a spare Surf HM. However, it won't do much good to me, because I'm lacking in badges. Valarie turns to us, and asks her if me and her have a battle for a gym badge. Melia says that sounds like a good idea, and asks if we'll just battle on the beach then. Valarie says that we could do that, but that's boring... Which means that she has something else in mind... She says that she saw a nice spot while we were sailing down this way, so we can head there. Just then, Colin (Yes, the boy that was taken by the tentacles in the S.S. Oceana) comes over to us, and says that they found an empty lodge on the north side of the beach, and that they're gonna turn it into a Pokemon Center and a PokeMart. Valarie is pleased, and tells me that if I need to stock up on things, she suggests I make my way to that lodge. She tells me to just speak to her whenever I'm ready. She then realizes that she's not in prison anymore, so she changes back to her normal clothes right in front of us, and says that she feels so much better. She giggles, and I make my way to the lodge.

Ummm... Why did she change right in front of us? Has she no shame?! Oh well... Time to train Sheep some more!

After training Sheep, I talk to Nim, who tells me that she almost died out there, and it was thanks to Melia that she's standing here right now before me. She says that she needs to think for a bit, and says that if I need to get back to the Floria district, she can teleport me there. She says that when I need to get back on the island, she'll be waiting at Akuwa Town. I head over to Braixen, and she say that it's just like Saki to be thrown off a ship. I find Aelita at the entrance to Terajuma Jungle, and she says that we should probably stay out of the jungle until everyone's ready to proceed. I head over to Adam, but find the Grass Gem nearby. I talk to Adam, and he hopes that Team Xen doesn't find us here, because he doesn't want to have to do anything reckless. I then head back on the ship, and train Sheep.

After training Sheep, he eventually evolves into Flaffy, then Ampharos! With a now-grown Sheep on the team with the Quick Claw equipped, I talk to Valarie, who asks me if I want to go to the spot she mentioned earlier. I say yes, and she says that we can use the docked boat to drift out into the ocean. She's sure that the owners won't mind if we borrow it, and we head out there.

When we get out there, I get into position, and Valarie apologizes once again for what happened. She says that it's her fault we didn't get out with everyone, and that if only she looked at things in a different perspective, things would've been different. She apologizes again, and asks me if she's ruining the atmosphere. Yes, yes you are... She then tells me to show her the true extent of my power.

I will gladly show you the true extent of my power... After all, you DID just witness Madame X's Pokemon get utterly destroyed, did you not? If I can defeat a team of level 100 Pokemon, anything is possible. Prepare to get washed away, Valarie!

Marine Biologist Valarie sends out Politoed, while I send out Sheep. Sheep paralyzes and confuses Politoed with Thunder Wave and Confuse Ray, and Politoed hurts itself in confusion. I send out Charles, who gets knocked out by Politoed's Tidal Wave, but I send out Kidnapper, who sets up Amnesias and Minimizes, while Politoed snaps out of confusion. I keep healing Kidnapper with Super Potions while this happens, and have Kidnapper use Substitute. Eventually, I also manage to heal Sheep completely, and when Politoed goes into paralysis, I Baton Pass Kidnapper for Sheep, and have Sheep confuse Politoed with Confuse Ray. Sheep then strikes with Discharge, shocking Politoed to a crisp. Valarie sends out Milotic, and Sheep paralyzes and confuses it with Thunder Wave and Confuse Ray, all while Milotic keeps missing Dragon Tails. Sheep then launches a couple Discharges, and knocks out Milotic. Valarie sends out Lantern, who Dives underwater, and strikes at Sheep, but also gets confused by Sheep's Confuse Ray. I take a gamble and have Sheep use Discharge, but it surprisingly does not have Volt Absorb. Lanturn, however, survives, and Valarie heals it with a couple of Hyper Potions. Lanturn snaps out of confusion, and strikes a few times, but gets knocked out after a few more Discharges. Valarie sends out Lapras, who is actually a male, and when Sheep tries to paralyze it, it heals its status problem with Hydration. However, I find a loophole around, and have Sheep confuse it with Confuse Ray. Sheep strikes with Discharge, but just as I heal Sheep with a Super Potion, Valarie switches out Lapras for Slowbro, who Sheep paralyzes and confuses with Thunder Wave and Confuse Ray. Slowbro tries to build up with Light Screen and Calm Mind, but after a few Power Gems and Discharges from Sheep, it goes down. Valarie sends out Lapras again, and the Light Screen fades, allowing Sheep to confuse Lapras with Confuse Ray, and take it out with a couple Power Gems. Valarie sends out Rotom-Wash, and says that the waves give her the power to keep on. Rotom-Wash tries to burn Sheep with Will-O-Wisp, but misses, as Sheep confuses it with Confuse Ray, and knocks it out with a couple Discharges. With Valarie's Water-type Pokemon defeated, I win the battle!

Valarie sees that she's been washed away, and understands that she, Valarie, Gym Leader of Akuwa Town, has lost. She says that it is her greatest honor that she presents to me, Trevo, with the Dewdrop Badge. She gives me the Dewdrop Badge, and says that Pokemon from levels 1-50 will now obey me from now on. However, Melia comes swooping in on her Togekiss, and drops HM03 Surf to me! She comes back, and tells us that everyone is set to proceed into the jungle. She says that whenever we're ready, we know what to do. She flies back to the island, and Valarie says that she's not as strong as me and Melia, but she won't hold anyone back. She says that we should go meet everyone by the entrance, and so Valarie heads back. I, however, teach Grimsley Surf, take a look at my surroundings, and grab some items around the place. After battling a trainer nearby and collecting all the items I can get, I sail back to Terajuma Island.

When I head back to the island, I find that everybody except for Colin, Nim, and Adam, already entered the jungle, and so I head inside the jungle too.

Today was a glorious, yet terrible day... My mother is now dead, and we're on an abandoned island... Maybe... But I promise you this, Madame X... You WILL be destroyed next time we meet. I can promise you that. For now, into the Jungle I go!

Current Stats:

SWOOP, THERE IT IS! SWOOP THERE IT IS!!! SHEEP, IS THE SWEEP! SHEEP, IS THE SWEEP!!! In this chapter, there was major butt-whooping all around, with three MVPs! First, we have Swoop, who annihilated Madame X's ENTIRE TEAM with the help of a Baton Pass team! Not only that, but he destroyed Madelis, Neved, AND THE ENTIRE BLACKSTEEPLE PRISON GUARD! Next, we have Sheep, who went from a tiny little Mareep, and evolved into a Shock-and-Awe Ampharos, and swept through Valarie's Water-types like they were NOTHING! And finally, we have Kidnapper, the child-napper balloon who was a great help in EVERY battle I faced in this chapter. I had to level the team down a bit, because I thought I would need Charles, IronFist, and Grimsley against Valarie, BUT I DIDN'T! With Surf in my hands, and powerful Pokemon to boot, things are looking up! Except... R.I.P., Mother!!!

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 43

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 43

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Surf

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Endeavor (Will get Calm Mind back though, don't worry!)

Ampharos

Name: Sheep

Level: 45

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 43

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

Mawile

Name: Nancy

Level: 43

Moves: Iron Head, Sucker Punch, Baton Pass, Crunch

[Tringus]

Chapter XXI: The Mysterious Terajuma Jungle, A Traitor Among Us, And The Return Of Zetta, Jenner, And Geara!

After escaping BlackSteeple Prison, defeating a whole lot of people, and getting my fifth badge, I follow the others to Terajuma Jungle.

Meanwhile at BlackSteeple Prison...

Madame X stands outside of BlackSteeple Prison, extremely outraged at what's happened, and says that it's purely sickening. She says that she has never been so humiliated, and declares that she will not stand for this. She vows to destroy me, and the other gym leaders. Umm... Is she implying that I'm a GYM LEADER?! Or is SHE a Gym Leader? She deems that they prove to be far too unstable, and dangerous towards her plans. Just then, Nastasia steps outside of the building, and tells her that the new recruit is here. She reports that they have detail that he is an acquaintance of mine, and the others. Madame X asks her if he is the third shadow as she mentioned, and Nastasia confirms this, by saying that he is the third shadow mentioned in the prophecy. What is this, Super Paper Mario? Madame X tells her to bring him to her at once, and she obeys by telling him that it's time to come outside. Just then, REN steps out, and Nastasia introduces him to Madame X. Ren then says that he will do whatever it takes to please her, and addresses her as Madame X. Define what you mean by please, Ren... PLEASE... Narcissa (Even though it's actually Nastasia) tells him that she will see to it that he will, and says that they're going to be positioned in a secret area by- Madame X calls for Ren, and she tells him not to fail them, as he stutters that he understands. The screen fades, and Nastasia says that Project Rejuvenation is going smoothly, and says that they should just get this over with.

Ren... You are a TRAITOROUS BASTARD, and I HOPE you are the next person to die by Madame X's katana! R.I.P. MOTHER!!!

I head to Terajuma Jungle, and see the others. Aelita tells me that Nim came inside the forest with her earlier, but she felt sick and ran towards the shore again. She wonders if Nim doesn't trust her, and so I talk to the others. Adam complains that it's hot, Valarie says we shouldn't dawdle any longer, and says that we have to find Saki, while Braixen complains that the grass feels weird on her feet. I talk to Melia, and she says that we're actually on course. Adam asks her how she knows, and she asks us if we see the K on the side of the gate. She explains that at the end of this jungle is a village called Kakori Village. The same village from Ocarina of Time? She explains that many years ago, the people of Kakori Village would mark these signposts to guide travelers, which seems to be effective enough. Valarie says that if that's the case, we should keep going. She says that we already lost someone (MOTHER!!!), and she's not about to lose another. Aelita agrees, and says that it's too hot to just stand around, because we'll faint of heat before we get anything done. Melia understands, and says that we should move. Everybody heads onward, and she flies on her Togekiss. However, Adam stays behind, and complains once again that it's too hot, and he hates it. So he decides to swim onward in the nice, cool water. Just then, Nim tells me to wait up, and she slowly arrives. She huffs and puffs, and says that she's okay. She sees that they went on ahead, and says that she'll go meet them. I surf on Grimsley, and notice a strange flyer. However, it's too smudged to read, so I ignore it. I battle some trainers, and talk to a swimmer, who tells me that vines have been appearing as of late.

Eventually, I head to where the others are, and notice some vines blocking the path. Braixen says that this is why she can't stand Grass-types, because they're obnoxious. Aelita says that it wouldn't be a jungle without vines, and Nim is still sick. Adam says that he hates this place even more, and Valarie sees that there's even more things to worry about. Melia is confused, because she knows that these vines were definitely NOT here last time. Valarie asks if we can just cut them down, and Melia says that these vines are too thick to just cut down. She says that this isn't going to be fun, but we're going to have to go the long way around. Adam complains about even more walking, and tells Braixen to just burn this piece of shit down. Braixen asks Adam if he's forgotten that we are in a forest, and says that only YOU can prevent forest fires. Way to go, Smokey the Braixen Bear... Way to go... Aelita tells everyone to stop complaining, and says that we're wasting time. She says that if Melia says that's the best way to go about this, then she trusts her judgment. Valarie agrees, and says that there's no use in fighting over it. She says that we're just going to have to shrug it off, and Melia thanks everyone. Adam tells us to listen up, because he's not afraid of no plant. He steps back, and tells the vines to read it and weep, because it's over for them. Braixen sees that this will be fun to watch, and he roars. He then makes the charge... ...and is flung back. Aelita sees that we have to take the long way, and Melia agrees. Everybody leaves, except Nim and Braixen, who notices that something is terribly wrong with Nim, as a dark aura is around her. Nim follows, leaving Braixen to wonder where she's seen this kind of behavior before. She knows that Nim is a Psychic-type user, and sees that she can use psychic powers herself. She realizes what's going on, and hopes that Nim isn't overexerting herself. She follows the rest of the group, and so do I.

I find the rest of the group on the west side of Terajuma Jungle, and Adam doesn't want to talk about his failure. Valarie asks me how I am, and she says that she's just being stopped at every corner. Aelita tells me not to get lost, and Braixen asks Nim if she's alright. Nim says that she's fine, and so I talk to Melia, who says that we have a slight problem. She says that something must be disturbing the area's wildlife, and she's sure of it. She tells me that across this bridge is a normal rafflesia bloom. However, it's not, because rafflesia blooms are slightly different from this specimen. In fact, she believes it is a Pokemon across the bridge. She says that this normally isn't a problem, but they've burrowed their way underground, likely sleeping. She explains that from what she studied in Gearen, Vileplume sleep for EXTENDED periods of time, and we don't have that kind of time. Instead, we're going to have to either ask it to move, or make it move. She's already tried the former, which means I'm going to make it move. She tells me that she's read about a special powder that can actually cause Vileplume to wake up from a violent sneeze, but it'll have to do. She says that the people of Kakori knew of this problem, and set bins full of this powder by the vines. She tells me to scoop some of it up, and bring it back her. I go and get some, and bring it back to the other side of the bridge. I give the powder to Vileplume, and it battles me. I catch it, and Melia comes over to me, seeing that it's gone now. Unfortunately, she reveals that the Spice Powder is a one time use, which means I'll need to get more if I want to wake up more Vileplume. She says that the jungle is a little too dense for all of us to walk through together, so they'll wait here until things clear up. She also says that Nim is getting sick, so we shouldn't force her too much. She says that she'll catch up with me later, and I continue onward.

I explore the Deep Terajuma Jungle, and I battle many trainers. I find some items, but I also find a sad Tropius. I find some houses nearby, and one of the residents gives me a White Flute. HOWEVER, she lies, and says that Pokemon are less likely to appear, but in reality, they are MORE likely to appear! I head into the other resident's house, and there are SO MANY BOXES. The resident is silent, and I leave. I eventually find a ledge leading me back to the entrance, and so I head to the Lodge to heal my Pokemon and buy some more Super Potions. I then head back to Terajuma Jungle, and find a mountainside with posters all over. On of them says this:

"Quiver in the presence of the Lord." -Angie

I find a bridge, which glitches out as I cross it. I battle the hiker, and once I'm done traveling on the mountain, I see a Carnivine. Before I can go to it, Melia flies towards me, and says that she was just coming to check up on me. She says that I took the long way, and we hear Carnivine. We head over to it, and Melia says that Carnivine is considered a rare Pokemon in Aevium. She's only ever seen them in pictures, and says that this is fascinating. She tells me to listen as she nerds out about a simple Carnivine. However, Carnivine creates some vines, and she realizes that it's the cause of the mess. It runs off into a deeper part of the jungle, and she says that she's not about to let it cause more trouble. She tells me that the others should be right behind her, so they'll be here soon. She says that she's going after this thing, and heads inside. I decide to explore again, and I find a Shiny Vileplume! I catch it, and name it Vilepimp. I then follow Melia.

When I head inside, I see that Melia cornered Carnivine, and says that it's causing a lot of trouble for the people of Terajuma. She says that it can keep running, but we'll catch it. I head over there, and everybody catches up to us. Braixen asks if this is what we stooped to, chasing around a little Carnivine. She says that's funny, and Valarie says that if this is the cause of those sudden vine appearances, we'll have to take care of it, because it could potentially slow us down even more. Aelita says that if it has to be done, then we'll just have to close our eyes, look the other way, and attack. Melia says that she'll take care of it quickly, but Nim suffers again, Melia asks if she's alright, and Valarie says that maybe it's the heat draining. Braixen realizes what's going on, and Nim says that she can't hold them much longer. She apologizes, and a mysterious voice says that it's about time she gave up. Adam wonders who said that, and Nim says that it's them... Does this mean what I think it means...? Just then, she turns into stone, shocking everybody, and Geara, Jenner, and Zetta are free! Braixen says that it's just what she feared most, and that Nim had psychiatric energy deficiency. She says that it happens when a person with psychic energy overexert themselves; the energy implodes on themselves, and traps them in a shell of stone. Geara says how good it is to be free. Melia is shocked, and wonders who he is, but notices Jenner with him. Jenner is happy to see her, but Geara interrupts, saying that he sees where this is going, and that if he wanted to watch a soap opera, he would've stayed home. He says that they got business to tend to, and says that he'll never forgive me for trapping him in that realm back then. Actually, that was your WIFE that did that. He says that once he's done with all of us, he'll go after Narcissa, and then that trashy Mosely. Melia says that's rich if he thinks he can do that. She asks him if they can take on all of us, and Geara says that they probably can't, but don't intend to fight us. Valarie steps up, and tells them to surrender and let us pass. Zetta tells her to hold on for a bit, and says that they have another plan for all of us. Geara turns to him, telling him that he knows what to do, and Braixen asks what they're talking about. Carnivine backs away, and the three turn to it, telling it not to think of running, because it's his, now. He begins his ritual, and Carnivine is trapped. Melia tells him to stop, because he's torturing it, and Valarie wonders what's going on. However, Carnivine actually turns into a Dimensional Rift, which means that Zetta still has it. Jenner is surprised to see such a monstrosity, and Geara is sure I've seen this. He tells us to kneel before them, and they'll think of getting rid of it for us. Melia talks to Adam, and tells Aelita to look after Nim. Adam then goes over to Jenner, and battles his Klinklang with his Gigalith. Melia says that we're not scared of them, or their Dimensional Rift. Valarie and Braixen go over to Zetta, and battle his Absol with Lapras and Braixen herself. Melia tells Geara that if they're going to let something else do their job, then so be it. However, she won't hesitate to take him down, as she sends out her shiny Zoroark, while he sends out his Chandelure. How did he get one in such a short amount of time? Just then, the battle with the Dimensional Rift begins.

Geara, Jenner, and Zetta... As soon as I defeat this Dimensional Rift Carnivine, you three are next!

The Dimensional Rift Carnivine unleashes itself, while I send out Kidnapper, who sets his evasion up with Minimize, while Carnivine turns into a demonic plant monster of itself and Leech Seeds Kidnapper. After Kidnapper builds up his evasion, he Substitutes, and Baton Passes with Sheep, who paralyzes and confuses Carnivine with Thunder Wave and Confuse Ray, while Carnivine keeps attacking with Power Whip. After Sheep faints, I switch him out for Charles, but realize I can use Nancy to Intimidate Carnivine. So, I keep switching Nancy out so I can lower Carnivine's attack stat. Once Carnivine's attack stat is lowered, I heal Kidnapper, and send him out to build up evasion and a Substitute again. After Kidnapper sets up, I Baton Pass him for Charles, and he goes into a long war with Carnivine, due to the Leech Seed on Charles, while Charles spams Dragon Rage. Eventually, just as Carnivine breaks Charles's Substitute, Charles runs out of Dragon Rages, and burns Carnivine to a crisp with Flame Burst. With the strong level 65 fly-trap defeated, I win the battle!

After the battle, Zetta, Jenner, and Geara are defeated. Zetta goes into a rage, and wonders how it is that I'm able to destroy Dimensional Rift Pokemon so easily, and wonders what my power is. Melia tells Zetta that he makes her sick, and these Dimensional Rifts need to be stopped, because that's all there is to it. She tells him that he might have posed a threat to us in the past, but now we're just as strong as him. She says that we're not letting them get away with this, and Jenner wonders when she started to use such an attitude. She tells him that it was since the day he abandoned her, and he shuts up. Geara tells both of them to shut up, because no one wants to hear it. He demands Jenner to capture her, and says that he knows the consequences if he doesn't. Jenner starts to say something, but Melia threatens that if he tries to touch her, she'll rip him to shreds. Geara says that if that's how we're going to play this game, he'll happily oblige. Just then, the stone shell of Nim moves close to Melia, and then vanishes, right before our eyes! Geara says that he'll just take her, and asks if it's alright with us. He assumes that considering the atmosphere, he'd say that we're on Terajuma Island. He explains that Valor Mountain is nearby, and offers to do a little trade. He tells us to come to Valor Mountain with Melia, and we'll exchange. He threatens to meet them at Valor Mountain, or Nim will be swimming in magma. He gets specific, and says that if we fail to appear in two weeks, Nim will be swimming in magma. A little redundant with your words there, buddy. He asks if we're clear, and Melia is silent. Geara says that he's glad we've come to an agreement, and Jenner apologizes to Melia. However, she hopes that he rots, and the three Xen Admins vanish. Valarie asks what we do now, and Melia says that we should go to Valor Mountain, and heed their ultimatum. Aelita refuses to let them trap us any further, and says that this is obviously a trap, because Geara wouldn't be so convenient. Adam says that we lost Saki, and now we lost Nim. He wonders who's next in line, and asks Braixen if she would like to volunteer. In her defense, she would rather cut her own tail off before that happens. Valarie tells the two to break it up, because we don't need anymore conflict than we already have. She says that at the very least, we should still look for Saki. Braixen says that Saki's aura is stronger here, and wonders if she is nearby. Melia says that Kakori Village is just up ahead, and we should keep going. They all leave, while I follow.

Hang on, Saki! We're almost there! We're coming for you too, Nim!

Current Stats:

I battled quite a few trainers in this chapter, and fought a level 65 Dimensional Rift Carnivine. What do I get? Almost no experience, which means I may need to grind a little bit. Sure, some members leveled up, but if there's going to be more high-leveled Pokemon like that Carnivine in the future, I gotta be prepared. I also decided that Kidnapper is going to be an official member of the team, too.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 44

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 46

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Surf

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 43

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Endeavor (Will get Calm Mind back though, don't worry!)

Ampharos

Name: Sheep

Level: 45

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 42

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 43

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

Mawile

Name: Nancy

Level: 43

Moves: Iron Head, Sucker Punch, Baton Pass, Crunch

Driftblim

Name: Kidnapper

Level: 43

Moves: Substitute, Minimize, Amnesia, Baton Pass

[Tringus]

Chapter XXII: The Lonely Kakori Village, The Road To Valor Mountain, And Zetta's Ulterior Motive!

As soon as I head through the end of the forest, I meet up with everyone else. We find the village, but are blocked off, due to two rangers, who halt us. They wonder who goes there, and Melia explains who we are, and that we wish to gain passage through Kakori Village. One of the rangers wonders if she's heard her name before, and the other says that he heard it before, too. Melia says that she was there before, but had to leave on important business. She asks them if we can enter, and one of the rangers isn't so sure. She tells us that they have bigger problems on their hands, and the other says that there's this Carnivine wreaking havoc on Terajuma Island, saying that it's creating vines that are blocking the pathways between here and the village. However, Melia tells them that we solved that problem already, and unfortunately, that Carnivine is no longer... but no more problems should arise. The ranger is surprised, and calls us ruthless. Valarie asks them if we can just enter, because we've been through a lot. However, somebody arrives, and asks the rangers if they're being incompetent again. The rangers get scared, saying that it's Crawli. Crawli then orders the two to open the gates, and the two do. Just then, the gates open, and a green-haired person is on the other side. Xe recognizes Melia, and asks if it's her, and she says that it's nice to see xyr again, as she asks how xe's been. Crawli says that xe's been great, although it looks like xyr rangers haven't improved since she was here last. Melia is sure that they'll come around someday, and then turns to us, introducing Crawli to us. She explains that xe is the head ranger, and the Gym Leader of Kakori Village. Braixen introduces herself to xyr, and tells xyr not to forget her name. Valarie introduces herself as the Gym Leader of Akuwa Town, and Adam introduces himself, too. Aelita introduces herself to xyr, saying that she is the daughter of the former Sensei of Sheridan. Crawli sees that there's a lot of important people in this group, and assumes that we're all tired and stuff. Ummm... Whatever happened to my introduction? Xe then invites us to sit down and chat, and says that we all look like we have a lot to tell. Xe says that there's a vacant house northeast of xyr gym, and we can use that. Xe and Melia leave, and Aelita hopes that they have stuff to eat, because she's starving. She and everybody else head to the house, and I follow. However, from the two rangers, I learn that Crawli is nice, and that xe's actually blind. Xyr mastery of Bug-types has allowed xyr to see like a bug does, too, which is pretty impressive. I explore the town, and find a Help Center here! A ranger nearby tells me that somebody keeps putting flyers on the houses around here... What's creepy is that if one tried to rip them off, they'd feel a very cold chill down their spine... The ranger tells me that people have passed out because of this, and I find a flyer next to the Help Center, which says this:

"'Help those willing to be helped.' These are the words that are God, Arceus has blessed us with." -Angie

Just who is this Angie person? Whoever she is, she seems odd...

I look around the houses, and find some more:

"You all will be punished..." -Angie

I head into a person's home, and she asks me if I always walk into people's houses like this. She asks me if there's anything else I do, like break their pots, thinking that I'll find money in them. She tells me right now that she has no pots to be broken, nor are there any money lying in them. She then tells me to be a good little kid, and leave her house. Hello? Old lady, I'm a grown MAN! What the hell are you talking about, disrespecting me like I'm some little kid? HELL no! I will not stand for this! I then go to the door, but she says that I'm not even allowed in her house, asking me what makes her think she'll let me inside of her room. I leave, and also find a suspicious house, where its residents are silent. I also find that their home has a generator and some boxes, which could be suspicious.

I head into another house, where I learn about a Pokemon that can take things and put them into its own dimension with hoops. Hoopa, anyone? However, what the old man says is interesting:

"Long ago, the Aevium Region used to be one huge, intact region. However, one day, a war broke out between the people of Aevium. They were after something that could allow them to gain the knowledge to further their ideals. Much blood was shed on this day, and then suddenly, the earth shook. This mysterious white light flickered over and over until one final flash of light engulfed the region. When the light faded, almost 80% of the population were killed. I was a child during the time, but I remember that where the gym used to be was now gone. And a vast ocean engulfed the horizon. It seems as though my village was torn in two, and my parents were on the other half. I haven't seen them since that day... They're probably long gone by now."

I leave the house, and head to the vacant house where everybody is. When I head inside, Valarie tells Crawli that we need to know where Valor Mountain is, because it's urgent. Crawli understands, and says that it's not like Valor Mountain is off-limits, but... Just then, an earthquake occurs, and Aelita wonders what that was. Crawli guesses that Valor Mountain explained itself before xe could, and Braixen asks what xe means. Crawli explains that there is a reason why Valor Mountain is called Valor Mountain, and it's because the mountain can feel emotions. Adam is confused, and Crawli says that it can feel neutrality, anger, and sadness. Adam asks xyr if xe's serious, and asks if xe's really trying to tell him that a MOUNTAIN can feel emotions, and asks xyr what kind of assholes xe takes us for. Braixen says that she can't say that she totally believes it either, but stranger things have happened. Melia tells us that Crawli is telling the truth, and that she's talking from experience herself. Valarie trusts her judgment, and Crawli says that even though Valor Mountain isn't regulated, we should still be careful. Just then, somebody comes in, looking for Crawli. A familiar someone, in fact...

Just then, Rorim B. shows up, and scoffs, saying that Crawli has work to do. Just then, he recognizes me from before, and says that it's disgraceful in his village. he scoffs, and Crawli asks me if I've met Rorim B before. Rorim B says that we have, and that I've disgraced his presence back on the mainland. He says that he has nothing else to say to me, and Crawli asks him if he came in here to tell xyr something. Rorim B tells xyr to forget it, because he can't stand my presence anymore. He leaves, and Aelita and the others are shocked. Crawli says that Rorim B is a strange guy, but says that we should get going. Valarie says that we should, and thanks xyr. Everyone except Melia leaves, and lets it all out. She says that she is so glad everyone is gone for just a second, shocking even me. Melia says that acting like a leader is cool and all, but it is tiring. She asks me if she surprised me, and laughs. She tells me that she had to act serious for a bit, otherwise people don't take you seriously. She says that's something she learned while she's been away. She admits that this life is way more exciting than her life in Gearen, but being yourself doesn't really seem like a big thing until you have to be someone else. She gets up to leave, but at the door, she tells me that she trusts me the most, so she knows no matter who she is, I'll be right behind her. She then leaves, and I follow.

I wonder what she means by that?

I leave the house, and follow them into Route 5- Valor Path. I read the sign, and it warns me that there are falling rocks from Valor Mountain. I battle the trainers, and as I continue onward, rocks fall from Valor Mountain, as I was warned before. Heck, one rock falls dangerously close to this Pokemon Ranger, she doesn't even bother battling me! I continue onward until I reach a beach. I talk with one of the trainers, who tells me that she heard someone in the village uses soot from the grass to create flutes. The other trainer is just thinking about jumping on the ledges, but thinks it's risky, and gives up on crossing. I start to jump on the ledges, and I battle the trainers as I jump across ledges.

However, as I jump across, I see Eli and Sharon again! Sharon is trying to get Eli to jump, and says that it's not that hard. She tells him that he already got this far, and encourages him that he can get even further if he just thinks about it. Eli tries to say that he can't, and Sharon just tells him to jump because he'll be fine. Eli then tries to jump... but then falls in the water like an idiot, leaving Sharon disappointed. She says that she really, REALLY doesn't have time for this, and dives in after him, telling him to hold on. However, she hits her head on one of the ledges hard, and slowly swims down, then quickly swims away. I make it to the shore across the river, and I find an empty house. I leave the house, talk to the swimmer, and continue onward to Valor Mountain. I find a healing machine, heal my Pokemon, and continue onward.

I eventually meet up with the others, and find Zetta right in front of us! Melia is not surprised that Geara decided to send the weakest link to sort us out, and says that he's no match for us, demanding that we pass. Zetta tells her that she's a lot more annoying than when she was at Goldenwood Forest, and she says that she gained a voice and some skill. She tells him that he at least has one of those things: a voice. Zetta says that she's fierce and fearless, and says that now he knows where he got that from. Melia asks him what on earth he's talking about, and he shrugs it off, saying that he'll deal with her later. He reveals that I'm the one he was sent down here to test, and says that we should start the show. With that said, the battle begins.

You want a show, Zetta? Bring it.

Zetta sends out Absol while I send out IronFist, who almost knocks out Absol, who survives by an inch. IronFist finishes Absol off with a Vital Throw, and Zetta sends out a Shadow Chesnaught! I send out Charles, who weakens Chesnaught with Flame Burst. I then proceed to throw Pokeballs at Chesnaught, while Chesnaught knocks out Charles. I send out Sheep, and throw more Pokeballs until I eventually catch it! Zetta sends out Roserade, and Sheep weakens Roserade by paralyzing it with Thunder Wave and confusing it with Confuse Ray. However, Sheep is eventually knocked out by Roserade's Magical Leaf, and I send out Grimsley, having him use X-Scissor. Roserade snaps out of confusion, but gets paralyzed next turn when its on its last inch. Zetta sends out Weavile, and Grimsley smacks it with Smack Down twice to knock it out. Zetta sends out Vileplume, while I send out IronFist. Zetta must really love Grass and Dark types! IronFist Crunches Vileplume and Vital Throws it, but unfortunately gets knocked out eventually. I send out Nancy, and have her finish the job by striking with a critical hit Crunch, knocking Vileplume out. With Zetta's Pokemon defeated and Shadow Chesnaught snagged, I win the battle!

Zetta says that he never stood a chance, and says that he really dislikes me. He asks me if I think I'm better than him, and tells me to guess again. He then says I should have a gift, straight from Uncle Zetta. He contacts Geara, and tells him to activate the pillars. They activate, and we're all shocked as they ooze lava. Zetta turns to us, and says that we're through. Melia tells Zetta to stop, but then a pool of magma is formed as Melia tells us to watch out. Zetta wonders what our poor group will do now, and gloats that now there's no way to into the mountain, and now we have no way we can save Nim. Melia tells him to stop acting like he's important, and says that it's obvious they don't want us on the mountain. She says that we have what they want, and they have what we want, so he should spill the ulterior motive, now. Zetta calls her a smart girl, but dismisses her, saying that's none of her concern, and that we should worry about entering first. He wishes us good luck, and says that we'll need it before heading to Valor Mountain.

Melia gets frustrated, and Aelita wonders what we do now. Melia turns to us and says that this changes nothing. She tells us that we're getting in the mountain one way or another. She says that she could easily fly over this pit of lava, but going in alone would be suicide. Valarie wonders what we do now, and Aelita claims that she might have the solution... She explains that there was this book she read that detailed a way to surf over magma called Magma Drift. ARE YOU SERIOUS? THAT SHIT IS REALLY IN THIS GAME?! THAT IS AMAZING!!! I have a story about my experience with that, but I'll say that story another time! Unfortunately, it requires seven badges for it to be used. Melia wonders what Magma Drift is, but remembers of such a TM. However, she remembers it being too dangerous, so it was discontinued. However, she's sure we could find some retro shop selling it. As for the badge part, she asks if Adam or Saki would be able to battle me. Adam says that he doesn't mean to be rude, but he and I aren't exactly on the same level... Does that mean he's severely stronger than me? Melia sees that he must be in the double digits in terms of Gym Leader status. Valarie chimes in, saying that Saki is too strong for me as well. BITCH, if I could destroy Madame X, then I sure as hell can beat those two! Braixen tells us that there is a gym in Kakori Village, and bets that I will be able to get a badge there. Aelita remembers that Crawli is a Gym Leader, and Melia asks who's challenging the league. Aelita tells her that me and herself are currently challenging the league. Melia takes note of this, and says that it just so happens that she is also taking part in the Aevium League. However, she's willing to put that aside for emergency reasons. She says that leaves Aelita and I. She explains that gym battles take one battle every hour, so we'll have to decide on who gets the first battle. OH HELL NO, NOT ANOTHER BATTLE! However, Aelita surprisingly lets me do it first, saying that we'd waste more time arguing on who would go first. Melia settles it, and says that I will go first. Adam then decides that we should all leave because this area is incredibly unstable, and she doesn't want to be pummeled to the ground by a rock. Melia agrees, and says we should head back to Kakori Village. They all leave, leaving me behind. WHY THE HELL DID YOU GUYS NOT TAKE ME WITH YOU? OBVIOUSLY you care NOTHING for my safety!

I then head back the long way, and find them standing at the front of the gym. However, somebody at the front door tells us that Crawli isn't here, and Melia wonders where xe went. However, the girl can't tell us because she doesn't know where xe is herself. She tells us that xe used to have this secret area that only xe and xyr father knew about, and Aelita wonders where xyr father is. The girl doesn't know that either, but she does know xe loves to hang around Route 3 on the mainland. We huddle up, and Valarie wonders what the deal is. Melia tells her that xe isn't there, and Adam wonders where xe is. Melia tells us that Crawli left to go to xyr "secret base" on the mainland. However, as the name implies, it's secret. Braixen wonders what we do now, and Melia asks if we remember Crawli's father, the flamboyant-looking guy who entered the house. HOLD A MINUTE... RORRIM B... IS CRAWLI'S FATHER?! THAT MAN IS CRAZY!!! Melia tells us that he may know where Crawli is, and if we find him, we find Crawli. Adam wonders where he is, and Aelita says that we don't know that either, but we have a few guesses. Melia is about to take a guess, but Colin arrives, saying that he finally found us. Valarie wonders what's up, and Colin says that there are creepy tentacle things attacking the ship! Valarie realizes what they are, and everyone heads over there, and I follow.

Don't worry, help is on the way!

Current Stats:

Some of them leveled up quite a bit, and I completely forgot that Swoop was level 53, not 43. Beating Madame X does make a Pokemon strong like that. Anyways, I decided to rechristen my Rejuvenation name to Trevore as well, since I already did so for Reborn. A bit minor, but that's how I decided to do it.

Charizard

Name: Charles

Level: 45

Moves: Fire Fang, Wing Attack, Flame Burst, Dragon Rage

Greninja

Name: Grimsley

Level: 47

Moves: Bounce, X-Scissor, Smack Down, Surf

Murkrow

Name: P.I.M.P.

Level: 43

Moves: Feint Attack, Wing Attack, Night Shade, Assurance

Swoobat

Name: Swoop

Level: 53

Moves: Psychic, Substitute, Air Slash, Endeavor (Will get Calm Mind back though, don't worry!)

Ampharos

Name: Sheep

Level: 46

Moves:Confuse Ray, Power Gem, Thunder Wave, Discharge

Torkoal

Name: Tortimer

Level: 43

Moves: Flame Wheel, Curse, Flamethrower, Protect

Sharpedo

Name: Shawn

Level: 37

Moves: Assurance, Screech, Swagger, Ice Fang

Pangoro

Name: IronFist

Level: 43

Moves: Crunch, Rock Smash, Body Slam, Vital Throw

Mawile

Name: Nancy

Level: 44

Moves: Iron Head, Sucker Punch, Baton Pass, Crunch

Driftblim

Name: Kidnapper

Level: 43

Moves: Substitute, Minimize, Amnesia, Baton Pass