Sithe Fahrenkopf

Took me some tries to get through Hardy....and the rest of the episode, but I was able to get through it with: Mamoswine Crobat Ampharos Gallade (Mega0 Umbreon Kabutops With my main Typhlosion sitting the fight with Hardy out.

If I could throw in my participation I'd greatly appreciate it. Sprite Vero (M) with Soul Silver theme for card. Also the Showdown name i'll be using is Sithe Malkarnar

1st run: Cyndaquil. Typhlosion is my favorite pokemon so I stuck by him. Because of black and white he no longer gets lava plume just before evolving so he didn't really get any good special attacks till really late which made it a little hard, but it was fun. Then my computer crashed after I beat Noel. Soooo I made a new file with my new laptop. 2nd run: I choose Chimchar just cause. Been pretty fun. Working up the mountain to met Cal.

Trainer's Name(s): Sithe Ever "caught 'em all": No I always got bored and started a new game J Games Played: Blue, Red, Yellow, Gold, Silver, Emerald, Diamond, Platinum, Soul Silver, Black, Black 2, X. Spin-off games played: Some of the mystery dungeons and conquest Any TCG decks: No. I had cards when I was little but never was into really playing. Favorite Generation for Pokémon: Gen 2 Favorite Generation for Games: Gen 2 Johto all the way! Favorite Game: Soul Silver Favorite Spin-off game: Conquest   Pokemon that needs to exist: A fire/psychic wolf. Pokemon that needs to not exist: Luvdisc and Alomomola. And Gyarados. I hate Gyarados. Dream PokéJob (breeder, elite four, etc): Make an independent Johto Elite four apart from Kanto. Currently Playing: Reborn, Soul Silver,  Favorite Pokémon: Typhlosion. And Umbreon. And Gallade…And…list goes on forever. Favorite Starter: Cyndaquil and Treecko If you could have anything for a starter: …Cyndaquil   Favorite Kanto Leader/E4: Blaine Favorite Johto Leader/E4: Pryce Favorite Hoenn Leader/E4: Norman Favorite Sinnoh Leader/E4: Volkner Favorite Unova Leader/E4: I hated them all. Favorite Kalos Leader/E4: Wasn’t too fond of any of them either. Favorite Leader/E4 overall: Pryce   Favorite Pokémon Movie: Pokemon 2000 or Destiny Deoxys Favorite Animé Episode: Anything with Bulbasuar kicking butt. Favorite Type: Fire and Grass Favorite Strategies: Glass cannons all the way. (Speedy attackers/sp attackers) Favorite Characters: Gold and Pryce Favorite Pokémon Song: Unbeatable and Johto Journeys theme. 

The Name of the Wind and the Wise Man's Fear by Patrick Rothfuss are two fantastic books, the final book in the trilogy aren't out yet.

I like most of the team members except for gorebyss. Since many of the battles are triples its hard for baton passers and walls to really shine. the person you baton pass shell smash to might not be able to withstand 2 or more attacks coming their way, so that's something to consider. Cloyster is a good shell smasher though and can deal some nice damage. I would consider a change, but then again its all speculation. I would try your team out first before making any changes. If you like the team and you think it can work go for it. Good luck!

The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan, completed by Brandon Sanderson after the formers death. Fantastic series, although there a ton of books.

Earthquake proved a problem with triple battles since some of my team doesn't like ground and doesn't have the defense, but looking at Flygons stats I think you're right about that so I think I'll adjust that. I've considered putting in extrasensory for Typhlosion but just haven't decided on it yet. Jolteon has Volt switch and the main reason I have thunder wave on there is to help the team against potential faster foes that could sweep. Its situational but it seems to work, still not sure whether to put signal beam of hp ice in there yet. Thanks a lot for the feedback!

I like the Pokemon you choose for your team, I think it's unique and it has pretty good coverage which is nice. The only thing I think you might have trouble with are the triple battles, and there are quite a few of them usually. Walls/stalling Pokemon tend not to survive as well in the triples as they do in singles so that might be something to take into consideration. Yet then again, as Abbey said, try it out first before you really make any major changes, might be the team will do very well. Good luck!

Murdoc, Thanks, I'll definitely consider a milotic build along those lines, the extra boost to defense would be really nice for the team. Secundum, Maybe there are better fire types than Typhlosion, but he always works well for me, and he's my favorite. Besides, I made it pretty far with him in the last season, thanks for the input though.

This sounds like it can be a blast. I really am amazed at how far you (Amethyst) and the rest of the crew have gotten on this game and story and how fantastic it is. Hats off to you (most projects like these have trouble making it very far). Can't wait to see how you plan to implement this.

Arkihdon, I think that the badges are getting reset anyways so now is probably the time to make adjustments. Dark Desire: That was my only concern with Gligar too, Yea I can imagine him having some trouble in later battles. Thanks for the suggestions!

I didn't think of assault vest on Gallade. That could actually free up some extra evs for defense, hp, or speed maybe. That's a decent idea, Thanks!

Hey Everyone! I challenged the league last season and got all the way to Amaria...before getting beaten to a pulp. Thinking about some adjustments to my team since badges are getting reset and I would love some feedback. Considering 8 or 9 different members right now. First is Typhlosion, my right hand man. He will always be on my team. Eruption Flamethrower Thunder Punch Focus Blast Speed boosting nature with charcoal Milotic, probably my favorite wall behind Umbreon Scald Ice Beam Recover Toxic Defensive build with leftovers and marvel scale most likely Gallade, definitely my favorite fighting and psychic type Drain Punch Rock Slide (Good in triples and flyers) Shadow Sneak Leaf Blade (Really wish I had this last season) Probably attack and special defense evs with sitrus berry, has worked well in the past Weavile Ice Punch Night Slash Brick Break Poison Jab (New Fairy type coverage I guess) Speed boosting nature with choice band Jolteon, I love Jolteon, him and Umbreon are my favorite eeveelutions Thunderbolt Volt switch Thunder wave (I know it seems redundant, but in situations there is an enemy faster than my other guys this has saved me) Shadow ball Full out speed and special attack, probably with a magnet or air balloon Flygon, definitely my favorite dragon Rock Slide (Good for triples and avoids ally strike like earthquake) Dragon claw (or outrage can't decide) Thunder Punch (Can't remember what I was thinking for the fourth move) Also in contention are: Gligar (Love this little creature) Roost Rock Slide Toxic Swords Dance Fully defensive with eviolite, could be a good physical wall Scizor Bug Bite Bullet Punch Brick Break Swords Dance Life orb and technician Ninetales, my second favorite fire behind Typhlosion Flamethrower Calm Mind Confuse Ray Will o wisp Drought with a balance of speed, special defense, and special attack evs probably. So I'm just looking for some feed back on movesets, Pokémon combinations and the like before I adjust my trainer card for the league. Thanks everyone!

You're right about Mightyena, but I do love him. I got vulpix, trapinch, and quilava to evolve at least so that's helpful. We'll see what happens where I get to shade. Might be when I get someone I like a little more Mightyena or butterfree might be exchanged out. Haven't decided though. Thanks for the input though.

Just beat Shelly. I'm probably not going to make many changes to the team, kinda wanna stick with it. Just wanna share it I guess. Suggestions are always cool to consider though. Quilava (FireFerret) lvl 34, flash fire, lax: flamewheel swift quick attack ember Mightyena (Akamaru) lvl 31, quick feet, careful: tackle, howl, roar, bite Butterfree (Freedom) lvl 33, compound eyes, hardy: gust, sleep powder, silver wind, psybeam Trapinch (Kain) lvl 31, hyper cutter, bashful: faint attack, dig, bulldoze, rock slide Vulpix (Kari) lvl 31, Drought, serious: confuse ray, payback, will o wisp, flame burst Kirlia (Owain) lvl 29, trace, bashful: teleport, charge beam, magical leaf, confusion (going to be gallade.) Have a psyduck and mankey each at 27 in box. might throw them and maybe when eevee comes around into a rotation, though I typically only use 6

So I meant to update this forever ago. got kinda distracted with classes and stuff. so for those of you who care to read...well here it is. “…Release your guilt, and never surrender,” Ponyta swore she could hear Typhlosion’s last words to her as she and Entei watched from afar as the volcano continued its devastating eruption, leaving only destruction behind. She could still hear the final screams of the dying, could feel the heat of the lava, and the sense the quaking earth. It was powerful, tremendous, it was horrible. It was a mass grave filled with fires, waters, and ghosts alike, the worst tragedy to ever plague their region. It was the final resting place of all her friends and family. She was alone. A tear slid down her face despite the pure effort she used to hold back. She wasn’t going to cry, not in front of a Royal Guardian, not now, not ever. No one will see her cry. However all the death; her comrades, her family, her baby brother, General Typhlosion, they were all dead. She could have saved them, she should have. She should have controlled her power; she should have been with her family, protecting them instead of rushing to the front. She shouldn’t of let Typhlosion face the enemy alone. There were a lot of things she should have done differently, but she didn’t, and now she was the last one standing. She could have saved them, she knew she could, but she did nothing. Now she was alone. It was her fault. Entei stood beside her, looking solemnly on the last act of heroism committed by his friend. He seemed cold to the devastation below, void of all emotion, but Ponyta glimpsed into his eye for a moment, and saw the pain and fury which was boiling inside of him. Then it was gone, as quickly as she thought it had come, his eyes as empty and cold as the rest of his face. That was control, control Ponyta could only wish she had. “We need to leave,” Entei said turning, “We can’t” Ponyta protested, “What if there are survivors? What if someone survived, we can’t abandon them!” “Look at that girl,” Entei said, “Nothing in Concordia could survive that. They’re dead Ponyta, there’s nothing here to save,” “Don’t you say that!” she screamed, “My friends, my family gave everything they had to defend this ground. They gave their blood to fight these ghosts, and you’re saying it’s nothing. It may seem lost to you, but they gave everything for this land, and I won’t abandon them. I have to save it, I have to!” “They’re dead girl, you can’t save them. There are ghosts still pouring in, you think you can fight them all,” “Maybe I will,” she said, “Maybe I’ll beat them all and save my home, my friends, my family…I should have saved them, it’s my fault!” “There’s nothing left for you here!” Entei argued, “I’m not going to give you my sympathy, don’t look for a shoulder to cry on, you won’t get one. You want to drown in self-pity and guilt, than stay and waste away. I don’t have time for that. There’s a war going on, and I need to save who I can, but only if they’re willing to help themselves first. You want to get stronger then let’s go, but I will suffer no further whining or self-pity” “What about my family, what about Typhlosion Entei!” she said tears openly flowing down her face, “What am I supposed to do if I can’t even protect them!?” “Do you think this is just about you?” he asked, “Have you ever stopped to think that this is bigger than that? Hundreds of Pokémon are dying every day in this war, and hundreds more will die before the end. You want to get strong, then let go of that petty guilt and shame and move on. You want to be part of something bigger than yourself, then follow, if not, stay and die. Do you really want to save people, like you’ve been so strongly saying, or is it just fear and guilt you’re hiding behind? Is it all just words? Typhlosion, that old bloke you so revere, held this volcano for days against overwhelming odds. He saved hundreds of retreating civilians. He didn’t cry over every death, he didn’t haunt himself with what he should have or could have done. He moved forward and tried to be better than he was, because he was part of something bigger. I dare you to do better!” Ponyta watched as Entei turned his back and began walking away. Her legs began to weaken and her heart began to tear as the realization finally hit that they were dead. There was nothing she could do. She couldn’t save them, not now. It was too late. She was alone. The tears had yet to stop, but she finally knew she had failed. She understood that she could do no more here. If she wanted to save anyone, she would have to turn her back on her home and move on, become part of something greater than herself, her family, her fire tribe, and join Entei in this grave battle. “What’ll it be?” She forced herself to stare deeply into the ruins of the volcano, of everything that was once her life. Now look at it, all that remains are fires over the scorched earth, the clutter of volcanic rock and lava spewed across the land, the dead given a burial of flame. Her friends, her family, Typhlosion, everything she knew and loved, everything that made her whole, everything which would forever haunt her, lay there in that god forsaken sacrifice. She knew Entei was right. The only way to honor them, to truly save them, was to turn her back, and live to fight another day. She took one last look, and turned to follow Entei… Riolu sat atop the battlements of the mountain fortress which ran across the southern border of the Eon-siblings region. Before them laid the ruins which had become of the Capital Region. Miles to the south the horrific ghost army were preparing their next attack, this time with their terrible leader who defeated the three Legendary Birds. Riolu was terrified, but he refused to show it. Their last attack had broken through the walls before they were expelled again, each time getting closer and closer to the heart of the stronghold. Riolu wasn’t sure how long they could hold out. Sooner or later they were going to lose, and he felt helpless against the endless waves of foes. Although reinforcements from the Dragons have bolstered their numbers, the Eon-siblings had yet to make an appearance, being too busy trying to locate the Prince. Even Entei was out searching, leaving Suicune and Raikou to guard the King. He looked down at his new badge and remembered he was a member of the Royal Guardians Task Force now, in fact, he was the youngest one, the only unevolved Pokémon of the team. He felt great pride in that, but also great shame. He wasn’t strong like the others were, like Brey or the Royal Guardians. He wasn’t quick like they were; he couldn’t even hold a candle to their strengths. Even Z had evolved into a Hypno after some training with the Royal Guardians, learning Dream Eater and Ice Punch in the process. Brey was stronger than ever, the perfect fighter as he always was, but Riolu, Riolu was weak, he couldn’t stand up to the more powerful ghosts alone. He couldn’t command the battlements or the halls; he couldn’t save the other soldiers. He could barely save himself. Each battle had been getting worse and worse, the brutality unreal. They all needed to get stronger, and most had, but not Riolu. No matter how hard he tried, no matter how much he wanted it, something always got in the way. Some new obstacle, some new fear, something always stops him. To make matters worse, the Poison Pokémon had turned on Concordia as well, joining the ghosts and other traitors in tearing apart the Kingdom. It seemed as if the sun would soon rise on the final days of their land. Everything seemed to be falling apart. He sensed the Mew King approaching before he saw him. He knew the King’s, and his teams, auras by heart now, and although he could do little more than sense the world around him, it was the only thing which kept him alive. He offered a salute, but the King motioned him to be at ease. “You’ve been having doubts Riolu?” the King asked “No…no sir!” The King looked into his eyes, “Your eyes give you away,” Riolu sighed and immediately felt ashamed for trying to lie to the King. Mew was not only a great leader, but a master of battles, and one of the wisest men Riolu had ever met. Before joining the task force he didn’t think overly high of the King or the Capital, but after working with him and seeing Mew even take the front, Riolu has seen just how much Mew loves his people. He’s seen just how hard he works for them. He even takes time out of his relentless schedule to talk with Riolu. He deserved to be King because he loved his people. He didn’t seek power, he didn’t crave riches, he didn’t even want that power, but he used it with care and respect. He was kind and caring, firm but just. He was a true leader. “I…I don’t think I belong on the task force sir,” Riolu whispered “And why is that?” Mew asked “Because…because I’m not strong like the others, I can’t do anything they can do, I’m nothing like them. I don’t have any special abilities and every time I try I only get into further trouble. I don’t deserve the honor…” “You doubt my judgment then?” “What? No, of….of course not!” “Forgive me, I did not mean to put you on the spot,” the Mew King said, “Being part of the Royal Guardians Task Force is not about strength of arm or performance in battle, or any special ability. None of that matters,” “What do you mean,” Riolu asked “The most important part of being in the task force Riolu, is the heart,” “My…heart?” “Yes, your heart. That’s all that matters, nothing else. I made you part of this team because I was blinded by the light of your heart. You aren’t weak Riolu; you’re one of the strongest, bravest Pokémon I’ve ever met. I wish I had your heart,” “You’re just saying that,” Riolu said, regretting it the instant the words left his mouth “Look into my eyes Riolu,” the King said firmly Riolu hesitated, and then the Mew King took his head in his hands and raised it so they met eye to eye. Then he saw how truly sincere the King was being, so true he could see a tear in Mew’s eyes. “Your heart Riolu is like none other. I admire the way you rush to protect others, with no worry about yourself, no matter the danger, no matter the cost. I admire how you would give everything in order to protect your friends, family, and your nation. I envy your courage to fight even the strongest of foes just to save one Pokémon. I have seen it time and time again. You sacrifice your well-being for others all the time. There is nary a selfish bone in you Riolu. You are kind and caring, firm and just. You have the heart of a true warrior, a true hero, and it will be hearts like yours who will save us in the end,” When the Mew King finished tears were flowing down Riolu’s face. Not tears of sadness or pain, not tears of shame or agony, but tears of joy and pride. The Mew King had given him the greatest gift of all, and looking into those eyes Riolu could see that his King, Mew, would tell him no lie. Those eyes showed how strongly the King believed in him, how much he cared for his people, his nation, even him. Riolu was overflowing with pride and happiness. He couldn’t let Mew down, not now, not ever, he was going to see this through until the bitter end, and save his kingdom as a member of the Royal Guardians Task Force. The ghosts began to advance, the first shots of evil crashing into the walls. Riolu and Mew saw none of it. A bright, pure white light surrounded Riolu, it was blinding to all who saw, but Mew didn’t look away, didn’t close his eyes. He continued to look at Riolu, his chosen warrior as he began to grow and change. When the light finally began to disperse Riolu was no more. Instead standing before the King was Lucario. Riolu had evolved. “Ready Lucario?” Mew asked “For you sir, I’m always ready,” Lucario replied, charging into the fray… Treecko’s eyes slowly began to open. He could hear voices, but whose were they? He couldn’t tell. His mind was foggy; everything seemed to slip right out of his grasp. He was tired, and hurt, that he remembered. But how did it happen? Treecko didn’t know. Every time he tried to remember the memories flew away like fireflies in the night. Minutes passed before his eyes finally began to focus. He could hear voices getting louder. Was that Ty? He tried to sit up and winced, expecting pain to swarm through his body as he remembered what had happened. Yet the pain never came. He sat up quickly, and found his skin held no wounds, only the perfect shade of green. His muscles were intact, if a little sore, and his body was clean of any blood. It was impossible. Pokémon were sitting around him. Jr., Ty, his brother, the Mew Prince they fought to protect, and someone else, a floating green figure which tugged at his memory. He looked into his memories, and thought he could feel the pain return to him when he remembered what had happened when Fang defeated him. He recalled that majestic green aura which seemed to fall from the heavens. He looked down at his statue and suddenly knew who it was. “You’re…you’re Celebi,” he said in shock “Yes, thank you for keeping my shrine clean. So many have fallen into disarray, to use your words,” Treecko stared blankly at Celebi, utterly speechless. Was Celebi there the whole time, hiding just out of sight? “You must be wondering how I knew that. I AM the time traveling Pokémon after all. I have always watched over this forest, but from outside time,” Celebi said “Where am I?” Treecko said still confused “Your home stupid,” replied Ty “Celebi…it was you who saved us?” Treecko asked “Yes, that snake will no longer bother you, at least not in this forest. I always thought you were quicker than this,” “I’ve had a rotten night,” Treecko grumbled “I suppose you have. Seeing Fang again brought back memories didn’t it. I suppose he will always haunt you in one way or another, considering your past,” “What past?” Ty asked Treecko was silent. Did Celebi know everything? Did she glimpse and watch every moment of his life? Of every single Pokémon’s life? Did she know everything that had ever happened to him? If she indeed did watch his life, then she would know, she knew what happened, and she did nothing. She stood by; hiding behind times walls, and watched. “And you did nothing!” Treecko said “It’s not my job to alter times course, only preserve it,” she responded “Don’t give me excuses,” “Time is a dangerous thing Treecko, one tiny alteration can have devastating effects, it could destroy our realm,” Celebi argued “If that’s what makes you sleep at night,” Treecko replied “TREECKO!” Jr. scolded, “That is no way to treat Celebi! She just saved your life!” A silence consumed all of them; no sounds remained in the stretch of forest. Treecko closed his eyes, and tried to find his composure, that calm, relaxing feeling he always had when he lied in his bed in the tree tops, listening to the life of nature. It was gone now, and in its place stood a miasma of eerie darkness which seemed to have fallen upon the forest. It was no longer his safe, relaxing home. It was a battle ground. “Forgive me,” Treecko said, “It hasn’t been pleasant these last few days,” “I imagine not,” Celebi said “So, if you don’t change time, if you don’t interfere, then why have you come?” Treecko asked “Because…the path of time has been distorted. Something terrible is happening in the past, something so horrible it ripples through the time line. Soon those ripples will make waves and crash through our Kingdom,” “What do you mean something horrible is happening in the past?” Jr. asked, “The past is over and done with,” “Time is eternal,” Celebi stated, “how to explain it?...All events in time, all periods, have in fact come and gone. All of them. Yet they are also playing themselves simultaneously at all times, in order to create the future where your sense of time has not yet reached. Although it is not tomorrow for you yet, doesn’t mean it isn’t there, and your choices today affect that outcome, just as your actions yesterday changed the course of today,” “I don’t interfere to make everyone’s lives perfect,” Celebi continued, “I only preserve time. I live to make sure time will go on, to ensure the survival and freedom of all Pokémon. And although most Pokémon aren’t strong enough, or their actions aren’t vital enough to scar the time line, there are some who are. There are some whose choices can bring complete devastation to our world, and as choices in the past take a terrible turn, the ripples are sent through time and threaten to consume everything. That is why time is so dangerous. One mishap can create a chain reaction, and one split second decision has sent your future spiraling into disaster.” “Then can’t you interfere to preserve time?” Ty asked There was a long silence. Jr. and Ty looked expectantly at Celebi, and the Mew Prince followed in suit, still not ready to speak his mind. Yet Celebi only lowered her eyes in shame. Treecko was the one who spoke. “It seems you have already tried,” Treecko said,” and looking at your own wounds, you failed,” “Yes…I failed,” “What!” Ty gasped “This one decision sparked an evil so powerful that I stood no chance. I was tossed aside as if I were only a new born,” “Celebi?” Treecko asked, “What is happening,” “It was a demonic Pokémon, filled with envy and hate, which tormented the past in worse ways than what you’re seeing now. It took years, and thousands of Pokémon to defeat him. The Mew King took it upon himself to deliver the killing stroke, but as much as the Mews are firm and just, they are kind and caring, and his resolve wavered towards kindness. Where once he slayed the beast, time has turned and he let the Pokémon live, live to atone for his sins. I knew then, to preserve time, I needed to change Mew’s mind, to reverse him to his original choice. Yet to do that I had to enter time, I had to leave my fortress outside your existence. I was too late. This Pokémon had already broken free of the Mew King and was waiting for me. We fought, but only for a moment, for he threw me aside and charged into my opening in time, and came here, where no one could match his might. Going back now is impossible. He is no longer in the past, by using my opening he has tasted the power of time, and has mastered it. We must defeat him here before we can slay him in the past where him and his legions where meant to die,” “Who is this Pokémon?” the Mew Prince asked in a high, quiet, frightened voice “His name…is Mewtwo…”

Hmm...for me...Probably Typhlosion, Ninetales, Jolteon, or Umbreon. Flygon and Gallade aren't far off either.

Next installment: Ledian watched the battle from the highest peaks within the Legendary Birds final fortress. The great birds, Moltres, Zapados, and Articuno came and went, supporting whichever front that needed them most. Yet still the enemy was advancing, slowly but surely climbing up the mountain towards the peak. If something wasn’t done, if somebody couldn’t turn this around, if morale couldn’t be raised, the peak would be lost. Ledian knew that, and he was shaking. He understood what was going to happen if they lost. This was the last fortress standing before the highly populated capital region. Hundreds, thousands more could lose their lives if they failed. He prayed the Legendary Birds would be enough to pull through. Behind him Bunne watched with wide eyes, pointing out to Loua any breaches within the defenses. Loua in return used her massive, deep voice to signal the Legendary Birds of any developments on the field. With them on the peaks, the Legendary Birds knew exactly what was happening and where, but for some reason it wasn’t enough. The ghosts were still pushing forward, despite everyone’s best efforts. Above them Tail was flying back and forth with nervous energy, bored of what he saw as a menial job, and angry for having to do it. Yet twice already ghosts had tried to take them, and both times they had fought them back, but for Ledian, twice was enough. Not for Tail though. He wanted more. By some mad logic, he wanted to dive right into the heat of the battle. He was confident and foolish enough, to wishing more fighting upon them. “Come on, why don’t we go down there and show them a thing or two,” Tail complained for the third time “Go down there? Are you insane?” asked Bunne, “Wait, of course you are,” “We could kick their asses if…” “If what?” Ledian interrupted, “If we could fight, if we were soldiers, if we were on the frontlines. Go then Tail, no one’s stopping you. This isn’t a game Tail, those are trained soldiers, and they’re dying, what good can we do? Against such odds we’d be creamed. So go, abandon your post, but I’m staying. I’m going to do my job and try to keep as many of us alive as we can,” “I agree with Ledian,” Bunne said, “We’re assigned to watch the battle from here and report to the King, win or lose, and to protect the citizens we were bringing north. Nothing else; if we leave our posts to fight, we may very well be killing the ones we’re supposed to be protecting. Loua, another wave of ghosts appearing from the Western Pass,” Loua’s deep voice resounded through the mountain and echoed across the peaks reaching the ears of the Legendary Birds. Slowly formations began to shift in order to deal with the incoming wave, but it was slower than before. Everyone was tiring and it was clear that soon the front lines would break and the ghosts would begin rushing towards the peak. Tail was silent now as Bunne and Loua kept their eyes on the field, Bunne’s foresight expanding her vision to even the mountain base. Ledian stared into the sky, his mind wandering from each event of the past few days which had led him to the command of the Citi-Brawlers. He was filled with as much nervous energy as Tail, maybe more, and as much as he hated to admit it, he did feel a little useless from way up here on the mountain summit. He knew his job was important, but he wished he could do more, he wished he knew how to do more. “…Tail…behind us!” “I don’t see anything Ledian,” Tail called “I know something is there, I can just feel it. Bunne,” Bunne’s eyes lit up red as she scanned the summit. Her eyes passed through the center where they stopped, revealing a dozen ghosts of all different types and sizes. The power they emanated sent rapid shivers of fear through Ledian’s spine. Yet those ghosts paled in comparison to the being of pure terror which hovered in the center of the ghosts. There it floated in the air, a tall intimidating figure of which no one has ever seen the likes. Darkness was swirling around it, barring anyone from seeing its true from. The eyes, however, the eyes were there for all to see, and in them Ledian saw all of his greatest fears, could feel the horrible agony of complete and utter devastation. Whatever this demon was, it was pure evil. It wanted nothing more but to kill and destroy. It had to die. Yet the ghosts didn’t hesitate to attack. Twelve balls of pure shadow flew towards Ledian and his crew. Ledian and Tail shot into the sky, but Bunne and Loua were forced to dance around the attacks. Ledian’s wings were vibrating vigorously, sending waves of high pitched noise into the group of ghosts. Supersonic soared through the air, striking the minds of all the ghosts and the attacked halted to a stop. He watched as the ghosts fell to the ground or spun in utter confusion. Yet the one in the center seemed completely unaffected. Instead he sent this devastating glare at Ledian, freezing him in place with pure fear alone. Everyone seemed to have stopped, and suddenly Ledian knew he had to kill his demon, because if he didn’t, it would surely destroy their world. He charged forward with Comet Punch on the foresighted ghosts. Tail shot past him with Quick Attack, wings colliding quickly with the ghosts and sending them all crashing into the stones and dirt. They had opened a path. Bunne and Loua must have felt the same thing as Ledian; they had to destroy this creature, this envoy of pure darkness and evil, before it had a chance to sow its corruption through their world. Bunne jumped and came down with a Dizzy Punch, but the creature didn’t even look at her but she flew backwards as if she were a twig in a hurricane, crashing into the mountain wall. Loua’s voice screamed through the air, soaring towards the terrible figure. Her Hyper Voice began to slow, then it grinded to a halt. Finally it was shot back at her with such speed she was crushed against the peak next to Bunne. Ledian and Tail had only a moment to watch their friends crushed into the rock before the god forsaken creature turned his attention towards them. They didn’t stand a chance. One moment they were in the air, the next they were being crushed into the rock by some terrible unseen force. The Pokémon, with the dark aura of fear swirling around it, had yet to even move. Ledian tried to stand, but the force was great, so great his muscles were tearing and ripping apart as it pushed him further into the stone, threatening to crush him into dust. He could do nothing, not even his mind would obey him. Not his muscles, wings, nothing worked. All he knew was this immense pain. And fear. The fear of his horrible might. Fear of being crushed, the terror of what this thing would do to their kingdom. Just as it seemed the last breath was leaving his body, the three Legendary Birds soared into the skies and dived down upon the fearsome intruder. Zapdos’ judgmental bolts, Moltres’ holy flames, and Articuno’s punishing cold all struck down on it at once. It was over. It had to be. Nothing could survive that. Yet the crushing pressure still hadn’t relented. When the smoke and dust all cleared, sprawled on the ground were the twelve ghosts, but within a barrier of pure light stood the creature, unscathed and not phased in the least… The fiery plains of Ho-Oh’s region have long been hot with unchecked tempers and constant conflicts between its denizens. Skirmishes between families and tribes were not uncommon, but now they were forced to join together in order to stave off a recent invasion. An invasion by their own ally, Kyogre, governor of the sea region. News of the attack had spread quickly, about the King fleeing to the north, the Mew Prince missing, a recent attack on Celebi’s forest by Groudon, and rumors of the fall of the Legendary Birds by a creature with unmatched might. Since Lugia and Ho-Oh immediately brought themselves to the front, Kyogre’s initial thrust has been swept aside, but with the addition of the ghost Pokémon the attack has continued in full. Endless waves of ghost Pokémon flooded into the Island and Volcanic regions and quickly crushed through the defenses, just as they had in the other regions. Yet unlike the river region where most citizens were inept at battling, the Pokémon in Lugia’s islands were masters of the treacherous currents, while those under Ho-Oh were experienced brawlers. They weren’t ready to fall. However, while Lugia’s forces had found a unique niche through the raging currents and whirlpools which allowed them to crush the invading forces, Ho-Oh’s troops had found no such sanctum. Ever relentless attacks of water and ghost had quelled even the strongest of flames and volcanoes. The fire region was collapsing, yet there were still a few volcanic strongholds which were standing tall. Ponyta galloped away from the blasts of water that were shot towards her by the invading water foes. She zigzagged back and forth, never letting the water come near her. Yet no matter how quickly she moved, no matter how fast her legs were, the water kept up with her every step. Kyogre’s forces were numerous, more than they could have imagined, and she was alone fighting against four water Pokémon, which were every bit as strong as she. Slowly the blasts of water drew closer and closer to her flaming skin. Ponyta drew flames from the air, her mind already clear and calm, and surrounded herself with scorching flames. The flames grew and grew, becoming visible waves of heat which rebounded off her into the surrounding air. Turning herself into a wheel of flame she charged towards the water and steam instantly consumed the volcanic room, leaving them all blind to their surroundings. Yet as if on cue, the Typhlosion commander jumped into the steam, his fists filled with electric fury, and crashed onto the watery foes below. He struck to his right, then his left, his quick attack making him a blur no eyes could hope to follow. When the steam fled, the water Pokémon had fallen to the rocky volcanic floor, defeated by the fire ferrets fists of thunder. Ponyta allowed her extra flames to disperse and slouched down, her breath heavy, “What now Commander?” she asked “We rest,” Typhlosion said, “And retreat,” “What!” Pony exclaimed, “But we’re winning!” “We’ve won the battle, but we’re losing the war, surely you can see that.” Typhlosion said, “They’ve already defeated the volcanoes around us. Soon they will converge, and come down upon us like a tsunami does the shore. We stay, we die. We need to join forces with Ho-Oh now, it’s our only choice.” Ponyta growled; they were winning the battle, they were stronger than the water Pokémon, they were better. They would have no problem, surely Typhlosion, Ho-Oh’s honored general, would see that. “But sir, with you here we can’t lose, we’re better than them,” she argued “That’s ignorance and arrogance speaking. Have I taught you nothing!? They have numbers, type, and ghosts on their side, and we’re almost surrounded. What is the always the better choice?” “…to live and fight another day,” whispered Ponyta Typhlosion nodded, “Then that’s what we’re going to do. I’ve already signaled the retreat and everyone else is evacuating. It’s just us now, so let’s high tail it out of here,” “Yes sir,” Ponyta said. Ponyta followed Typhlosion through the volcanic mazes which served to trap and confuse invaders, but something was wrong. Pony couldn’t quite wrap her mind around it, but something was definitely off. She had wandered these tunnels countless times under General Typhlosion but this time… “Sir,” she said, “Something’s not right here,” “You’ve noticed. It seems I misjudged. We already were surrounded, which means,” “We should have fallen back to the lava chamber,” Ponyta finished “Damn it,” Typhlosion cursed, “Get ready Ponyta, here they come,” It only took moments before ghosts poured through the tunnels which were to serve as their escape, the tunnels their allies and families took not too long ago. We’re they all dead? Had they all already fallen at the hands of the ghosts? Ponyta didn’t want to think about that. She couldn’t think about her friends and family as dead; her companions who fought bravely by her side, felled by the terrible ghosts and traitors which now ravaged their homeland. The fire in her heart began to burn and rage out of control, a terrible rage and tempest which she was going to release on her foes. The fiery passion within her grew as she felt each pain in her chest grow into agony as she came to the bitter realization that she and Typhlosion were the last. There was no one left. No friends, no family, somehow the pain in her heart was so grave, that she knew, even her infant brother no longer lived. She was going to burn them all to ash. “Focus that pain, that anger Ponyta,” Typhlosion said having come to the same conclusion, “channel that rage of yours, and put it into your flames, control it, don’t let it control you. Use it so you can survive another day,” Ponyta nodded, and turned that rage, pain, and agony into a fiery passion which fueled her flames. The fires on her back came to life, pulsating and striking out of their own accord. She put all of her concentration on controlling those flames, and when she tried to strike out at the ghosts with ember, something else happened entirely. As she opened her mouth, a pure blast of flames appeared, pouring out of her and consuming a ghost in fiery fury. “Learn to channel that energy Ponyta, and you could become the best there is,” Typhlosion said, congratulating her on the newly learned flamethrower. Ponyta didn’t give herself a moment to be surprised. She only turned all of that anger and energy and engulfed foes in the fires of her Flamethrower. Behind her, Typhlosion’s flames were burning even stronger than hers, and anything that stepped near him was burnt to cinders before they could even understand what had happened. Yet the ghosts didn’t stop coming, and neither did their attacks. With every shot of fire and Flame Wheel, Ponyta could feel her ever diminishing pool of Soul Energy drop down to empty. Beside her Typhlosion was still running strong, his skill and power matched by few in the volcanic region, and his Soul Energy pool as vast as the sea, yet even he had his limits, even he could only do so much. Ponyta began to feel the sweat come down her face, not from the heat, never from the flames, but from exhaustion. Typhlosion would kill her if he knew how careless she had been with her energy with her rage. She had channeled it into Flamethrower, and then let that anger and agony take over, wasting flames and energy on anything that moved. Her legs began to shake, and she heard Typhlosion grunt behind her. He was getting low on strength too. Soon they would join their friends and family; just two more casualties in this ruthless war. For a moment she smiled. At least she wouldn’t have to live without her family. At least she would no longer have to regret leaving them behind. She closed her eyes and waited for the finishing strike. It never came. Suddenly she felt heat and flames like none other, a fire so strong that it burned even her. She opened her eyes, but they were immediately blinded by the bright white bar of flames which was engulfing the tunnels. She shied back against the wall, Typhlosion shielding her body from the hotter than lava flames. Where was it coming from? Who could control such great, terrible fire? A minute had passed before that painful fire had passed by, and when she opened her eyes, the ghosts were gone. Just gone. Nothing stood before them. Then she saw a figure slowly walking towards them from the tunnels, a figure that stood tall even on four legs. His head was held high, and his body was big, his legs huge. Around him surged an aura of fiery might. It was Entei, one of the three Royal Guardians. “…General Typhlosion,” Entei said “Entei,” Typhlosion replied “You still live,” Entei said, “Though I’m afraid you’re the only two left,” “Tell us something we don’t know,” barked Typhlosion, “How bad is it?” “Bad Typhlosion, the Capital Region is almost overrun, the forest area is getting beat back by Groudon and Celebi and the Prince are nowhere to be found. Moltres, Zapados, and Articuno did indeed fall, and here Ho-Oh seems to be gasping for air,” “How many of them are there?” Typhlosion asked “Well over a thousand now, more pouring in from the other volcanoes, soon they’ll have enough to overrun the fire region. There’s only one thing we can do,” “What’s that?” Ponyta asked Typhlosion’s eyes lowered as he understood what Entei was asking him to do. Ponyta turned her eyes from her commander, to Entei, and back again, clueless to what was about to happen. With over a thousand ghosts, they were going to die. They couldn’t fight, not that many. There was nothing they could do. So why was Entei claiming there was one last piece to move? Why was Typhlosion staring at the rock below, his eyes holding some great pain? Why was everything so quiet, why was everyone trembling? “Take care of her Entei,” Typhlosion said, “Her potential is greater than either of us,” “I will,” Entei said “What’s…what is going on?” Ponyta asked “It’s not your fault Ponyta, remember that, it was never you fault,” Typhlosion said taking a deep breath “Good luck Typhlosion,” Entei whispered “Farewell Entei,” Typhlosion replied with the same dire quiet in his voice. Ponyta looked at the two of them, and the second she looked into Typhlosion’s eyes, she knew something was wrong. She watched as his Flamethrower collapsed the tunnel roof in front of her and Entei, trapping him in, and keeping them out. “What is he doing!?” she screamed “He’s using Eruption,” Entei said quietly, “We need to go,” “Eruption? What do you mean?” Entei didn’t answer. He only met her eyes for a moment, and looked away, his head and eyes low. He didn’t need to answer. She already knew. She knew just what Typhlosion was going to do. What he had to do. He was going to save them. He was going to save Ho-Oh. He was going to save the Fire Region, and he was going to kill himself in the process. He was going to blow the volcano to bits, and bring the terrible ghosts with him. Ponyta screamed. “We can’t let him do this, we can’t” she cried, “There must be another way!” Entei didn’t say a word; he just shoved Ponyta towards the exit, and pushed her to run as fast as she could. Typhlosion would cover them. They ran, and as they did, they could hear the explosions of rock and lava crashing onto the ghosts behind them. They could hear the massive destructive power, could feel the heat of the lava crashing through the land like a tsunami. They could hear the screams of the ghost Pokémon as they breathed their last. But over it all, over the thunder of the explosions, the screams of the dying, the flames of burning earth, over all of it, she still heard Typhlosion’s lasts words to her…

7, 53, 48, 37, 17, 21

Here's the next installment Treecko could only just see a dark blur as Fang rushed forward to strike him down. The snake was on him in moments, faster than he could blink, and the first Poison Tail was already falling down upon him. He jumped backwards and could feel the air rush past his face as Fang narrowly missed. It came back towards him and he had only a second to get out of the way. He rolled sideways and Fang’s tail smashed into the ground below him, cracking earth and stone. Again and again Treecko jumped, flipped, rolled, anything to stay ahead of the snake. Yet if Treecko wanted to win, he couldn’t keep running, but the moment his feet landed he was faced by another merciless assault. Without even a moment to breathe Treecko had no choice but to desperately jump and dodge each attack before it landed. Finally a wall of light fell in front of Treecko and the attack meet Jr.’s Barrier with a loud crash. As it did Ty was running forward and with an excellently timed Fake Out, and Fang flinched back from barrier and fist. When Fang opened his eyes Treecko was falling towards him. Using all of his strength, Treecko swung his tail into Fang’s face, his Pound attack sending the snake soaring back through the air. He watched as the snake easily recovered, shaking off the attack as if it was nothing, as if all their combination did was annoy him. Fang looked at the three fallen ghosts. “No wonder you were able to ssstrike me. Not only did you defeat my Ghastly’s, but I sssee you bessted their evolved form, Haunter,” hissed Fang Treecko didn’t respond and welcomed the momentary cease fire happily. Every moment he had to recover his strength meant a better chance of fighting off this immensely fast Ekans. He knew they were going to need every bit of energy they could muster. “Yet how long can you continue?” Fang asked smiling, “I assume you’ve used most of your Soul Energy by now,” “What’s Soul Energy Treecko?” asked Ty “I’ve heard of it before. It’s a Pokémon’s energy pool so to say,” said Treecko, “And the more you attack the quicker it depletes,” “Exactly,” said Fang, “but while simple dodging and attacks and other daily activities rarely touch it, the pool drops considerably when you use a special move. Whereas Pound and Foresight take little energy to use, that barrier and confusion must take its toll. And I can’t begin to imagine how much Soul Energy your Synthesis requires. You’ve used it what, two, maybe even three times now…Treecko? You’ve a lot of Soul Energy, but it’s got to be near depleted by now. Before long, exhaustion shall drag your body into the world of sleep,” Treecko scowled deeply. He understood how right Fang was. He had been forced to use Synthesis twice already and Absorb wasn’t the easiest for him to use either. In fact he cursed himself for being so reckless with his energy, not considering the fact that more enemies might have been watching, waiting for them to weaken. He should have fought smarter. Yet there was nothing he could do about it now. He was running low on steam, and even though he wouldn’t admit it outright, so was Jr. Treecko knew that Jr.’s impressive array of Confusions and Barriers had to have drained him near completely. The only one of them with energy remaining was Ty, and he didn’t have the strength to take on a fearsome foe such as Fang. It’s been a rough night, but Treecko knew it was about to get much, much worse for them all. Fang slithered forward, marking an end to the temporary break, charging towards the unprepared Tyrogue. Treecko watched his tail rise and glow brightly against his skin. He was about to use Poison Tail. Treecko jumped in front of Fang, swinging his tail hard to meet his Poison Tail. Treecko’s eyes met Fang’s for only momentarily, and suddenly a wave of fear burnt its way through Treecko. He felt his muscles tighten and his body slow down, he felt the fear wracking his mind. It took him only a moment to dispel it from his thoughts and push his body back into the attack. Yet a moment was all Fang needed. As Pound came in low, Poison Tail came high and fast, striking Treecko across the chest. He didn’t even have a moment to blink before he crashed into a tree. “Treecko,” cried Ty and Jr. rushing over Yet even before they could take a second step a barrage of poison barbs fell down upon all three. When they turned to look Fang was firing a rapid Poison Sting into the air above them. A soundless scream came from Treecko as a second wave of super effective poison seeped into his body. He could feel the pain in each of his muscles, could feel the tainted venom burning his skin and seeping into his blood. He tried to get up, but he couldn’t move. His body didn’t have anything left. He just couldn’t take anymore, he had reached his limits. Treecko closed his eyes and tried to feel out his Soul Energy reserve. Only once had he been driven to use the last remaining drops in his well, and that had nearly killed him. He wasn’t sure he’d survive it again. As he feared it was dangerously low. One more Synthesis and Absorb…if he was lucky. If he wasn’t, the mere attempt at the skills could kill him. Unlike most skills, healing skills cost a great deal of not only Soul Energy, but physical and mental strength as well, and Treecko was almost out of both. He had no choice though. He poured his mind into that well, and drew from it what remained. A faint green light appeared around him as he delved into that last of his Soul Energy. Yet something was different, something was wrong. The light surrounding him suddenly turned into a majestic aura that shined brightly in the night. Treecko’s muscles were still wracked with pain and poison, but somehow it seemed Synthesis was stronger than it ever was before. He felt the increased burst of energy, and slowly began to stand up as Synthesis began doing its job. “Overgrow is a rare ability,” hissed Fang, “But allow me to put you out of your misery instead!” “Ty, protect Treecko,” called Jr., “He needs a couple more minutes, once he’s up we can let him and Overgrow go against Fang,” Ty placed himself between the snake and his friend, and Treecko could only watch with horror as the young fighter went up against a vastly superior foe. The youthful Ty charged up against Fang, jumping over the lithe body which tried to reel him in. Ty crashed his body into Fang, sending them both into the dirt wrestling for an advantage. Yet despite Ty’s agility and strength, Fang’s long and slick body proved too much for him. The snake’s body coiled around him and began squeezing the life out of him. A flurry of Poison Stings followed, and Ty slumped, his body out of energy. Fang dropped him where he was and turned towards Jr. Jr. dove into the deepest recesses of his mind, drawing as much Soul Energy as he possibly could from his depleted well. He had to be faster, he watched helplessly as Ty fell to the ground. He watched unable to help because he couldn’t reach into that well like Treecko can. He had never been forced to draw into this energy before like Treecko had. Finally, as Fang was slithering towards him he broke into his weakened well of energy and drew every last drop. It was just in time. He threw out his first Barrier, it lasted only seconds, but it threw Fang’s tail aside. As he glided backwards he struck out with Confusion and pushed Fang away from him, attacking his nerves while the snake hissed in pain. Yet despite the psychic attack, Fang slithered forwards again, his Glare piercing into Jr.’s eyes. Jr. felt a stab of fear rush through his body and mind as he saw Fang’s Poison Tail come towards him. He tried to move away. He couldn’t. He tried to create a Barrier, but he couldn’t work his mind. He couldn’t even focus enough for Confusion. Jr. was paralyzed. He saw the tail falling from above. He knew that one hit was all Fang needed to finish the battle. He looked over at Treecko, who still hadn’t been able to move. He needed to survive a moment longer, that’s all his friend needed. He knew his friend just needed one more minute. He had to do something, He closed his eyes and willed himself to move, and drew upon every bit of Soul Energy he was able to gather moments before. Suddenly he could move again. He jumped backwards just as Poison Tail struck the ground below, and propelled him high into the air. Jr. knew he had only one attack left he could use. Copycat. As Jr. fell back down a Poison Tail of his own struck Fang on the back of the head. Fang screamed in agony and was about to attack in a fury of merciless assault until he looked down, and Jr. wasn’t moving. He didn’t land on his feet. He wasn’t even able to move. Jr. had exhausted every last ounce of his Soul Energy, He could only watch as Fang slowly slithered over to where Treecko was recovering. But Treecko wasn’t there. Jr. smiled to himself; he had given the damn lizard just enough time… Treecko stood within the branches, the Young Mew Prince finally awake beside him, watching Fang furiously slither back and forth, desperately trying to locate the two missing bodies. “Mew, I need a distraction, but don’t expose yourself okay, just stay hidden up here,” said Treecko preparing to jump Suddenly a bright flash of pure white light engulfed the area, blinding everyone but Mew and Treecko. Treecko saw Fang coiled, its eyes closed tightly shut. He leapt from the tree and fell towards the snake. He swung his tail and pounded it with all his might against Fang’s skull, crushing him into the forest floor. Treecko jumped at him again, Pound colliding with the deadly Poison Tail. He flipped backwards, rolled to avoid the next strike, and a moment later was back atop the branches,” Treecko went deep into his mind and closed everything out. Sound, emotions, pain, the battle he shut all of it out of his mind. He delved into his remaining reserve of Soul Energy and used almost everything he had, leaving only enough remaining for a Pound or two. Invisible, almost psychic pores latched onto the snake and suddenly Fang could feel the energy rushing out of his body. Treecko relished the energy, however little, which was rejuvenating his body. It only lasted a moment though. As Fang’s Poison Tail slammed into the tree, Treecko fell from the branches, landing nearly face to face with the snake. They’re breath was labored and their muscles were on fire. They were both on the verge of exhaustion; one more hit would end them. Either Fang was going to fall, or Treecko was, and he knew if he fell, his friends would die as well. He couldn’t lose. They moved quickly, the final standoff would be decided with this last attack. Treecko only had one move left, and he knew it had to be perfect. As he jumped towards Fang, spinning to ready Pound, he prayed it would be enough. He felt the auric energy from Overgrow pulse through him, yet he knew it couldn’t help him while his Soul Energy was completely depleted. This attack could end him, whether he lands a hit or not. It was do or die time. Treecko’s Pound clashed with yet another Poison Tail, both refusing to budge even an inch. Treecko pushed as hard as he could to throw back Fang, to knock him off balance. Yet no matter how hard he fought, Fang pushed back with equal might. Out of the corner of his eyes he saw Fang’s lithe body rise above him. He could see his mouth opened and out of it came the rain of poison barbs which sank into Treecko’s flesh. Treecko cried in pain, he tried to fight it, to ignore it, but the relentless attack kept coming. His muscles were tearing apart, were aflame with agony. He wasn’t going to hold on. Finally Treecko’s last bit of energy, last ounce of resistance crumpled, and Pound failed. He was falling towards the ground as Poison Tail came through, striking him against the adjacent tree trunk. This time as he fell towards the forest floor, there was no getting up. Treecko’s body had failed him. Despite his best efforts, he was too weak to defend the Mew, his home, his friends. Now he couldn’t even protect himself. As his mind fell from the waking world, he glimpsed a green light falling in front of him… Within the Sea Region of Kygore and the Deep Earth Region of Groudon, the fires of war were beginning to spread. Supported by an army of ghosts and poison Pokémon, the two governors’ began their invasion of the other regions. Kygore invaded the dual regions of Lugia and Ho-Oh while Groudon’s troops forced their way through the Great Capital Region and Celebi’s Deep Forest. Their master, who was cloaked in a shroud of darkness and mystery took his armies of ghost, psychic and poison Pokémon and wreaked havoc upon the regions of Articuno, Moltres, and Zapados. Caught off guard and unawares, the seemingly endless enemies came from nowhere and everywhere at once. First the Legendary Bird’s southern regions fell, and then the River Systems were invaded. By then the Pokémon inhabitants took up the fight themselves, bolstering the armies of their governors’. Through many victories, and many defeats, the soldiers of the great birds were pushed back to their forts among the peaks. The Magnetic Mines fell first, and then the Molten Mountains. Soon, all three Legendary Birds and all of the brave Pokémon from their region were going to fight side by side against the demonic invaders. This was going to be their final stand. One group of those courageous Pokémon was about to bear mute witness to their foe’s terrible might. The Frozen Peaks, the last stronghold remaining to the Legendary Birds, was home to Articuno, the majestic bird of ice. The entire mountainous region was now the final hold for the Pokémon fighting against the countless invaders. Here they were going to stall out the enemies to give the citizens a chance to flee north, where hopefully the dragons of the Eon siblings could bring them to safety. Yet not all of the citizens fled the demonic attack. Just as many remained, bolstering the armies, determined to defend what little remained of their homes. Among those citizens were many who had their destinies thrust upon them; they had to act, or watch everyone they knew die before their eyes. Some had acted quickly because that poor choice was thrown upon their shoulders. Ledian sat amongst the groups of Pokémon waiting for their orders from the legendary birds. Many had already heard of him and his companions. Words of their feats had traveled fast, although few knew the actual truth. They all thought they were heroes, fighting for every inch against the demonic invaders, making suicidal charges to save every citizen they came across. His partner, a Tailow named Tail, had blown the stories even father out of proportion with his exaggerations, crave of attention, and large, ever running mouth. The truth of it all though was that they were just caught up in the current and swept away like everyone else. They tried to do whatever little they could to save other citizens. At most that little had been a skirmish here and there, where they had an easy number advantage. They had yet to see any real battles and Ledian knew how dangerous some of the foes were. One ghost had nearly defeated four of them at once. The River Systems from whence they hailed was home to countless peaceful Pokémon. Much of the nation’s populace lived within the southern regions. Yet the invaders didn’t differentiate between citizens and soldiers, they just pillaged, burned, and killed whoever they came across, even children. They killed and moved on. After seeing the horrors with their own eyes Ledian knew he had to fight to protect who he could. His friends Tail, Loua, a Loudred, and Bunne and Buneary had joined him in arms. Over the days of fleeing and skirmishes Ledian found himself commanding a unit of over seventy Pokémon citizens, by the time they reached the Frozen Peaks one hundred and fifty citizens were following his lead. He didn’t think he was a great leader, but the others seemed to think so, so he took the job with honor and grim care. Yet not all had gone so well. The fights have been brutal at the very best, even when they had clear advantages in numbers. The enemy was just massively more powerful. He counted himself lucky to have gathered, and kept such a large group. Without so much support he was sure they’d all have died. Yet with every citizen they had saved, at least two had died because they had failed. In fact even with many of the Citi-Brawlers as they were now called, had evolved somewhere along the road, including himself and Loua, it hadn’t been enough. They were still beaten back; they had still failed to save most of the citizens, but for some reason the others refused to acknowledge that. They were fools to think they were heroes. They were only barely competent leaders trying to resist a swarm of brutal, never ending foes. He hoped the Legendary Birds would see the truth. For he was afraid if they didn’t, he and his team would be thrown on the front lines where he was sure they’d perish. They don’t have the strength for that type of battle. Eventually Zapados, Moltres, and Articuno returned, and began organizing the final defenses. After hours of orders and work only Ledian, leader of the Citi-Brawlers, remained. “Ledian,” called out Moltres, “You have done a fantastic job protecting the citizenry so far. You actions had saved hundreds of lives and for that you have our heartfelt thanks,” “However, we believe your time on the front lines have, for now, come to an end, “ continued Zapados, “as well as you have done, you are still young and citizens both, not soldiers to run off at war,” “What we ask of your…Citi-Brawlers,” said Articuno, “is to act as a guard to the citizens as they make their way to the Eon siblings region. Have most of them move out, while you and three others of your choosing remain here with you. Here you will wait, and when the battle draws to a close, whether we are winning or losing, you will deliver it with all haste to the King. There you can choose to remain in service, or leave the fighting to others,” Ledian visibly relaxed and sighed with relief. All morning he had been afraid that the legendary birds would throw him and his lot out onto the fronts. He felt a stab of guild run through him. He should have more faith in them; they are governors for a reason after all. “And Ledian,” said Articuno, “Rid yourself of the guilt you feel of those you’ve lost. You can’t save everyone, and trying only brings you to your demise. Blaming yourself for each death is a slippery slope. I’ve seen too many good Pokémon fall down that hill, never to return. All you can do is say a prayer for the deceased and move forward. None of those deaths were your fault,” Ledian nodded silently and left for his team. Whatever Articuno said, the deaths were his fault. He should have done something more, anything, to save them, but he couldn’t. He failed them. They called him a hero, but this wasn’t how heroes were supposed to feel. Heroes weren’t supposed to fail. Ledian had left the command to a duo of Pokémon he could trust and watched them leave. Only then did he go to find his friends. They were waiting for him near the summit of the mountains, waiting for him, their commander. “So, when do we get to kick ghost ass!” screamed Tail into the air like a battle cry “We don’t,” replied Ledian, “we continue to do our job, and the Citi-Brawlers will guide the citizens to safety, to Latios and Latias,” “What!” complained Tail, “after all we’ve done for them we get stuck with the rear guard? I could kick every single one of their soldiers asses single handedly,” “Tail shut up!” said Loua the Loudred in her deep voice, “you’re even louder and more annoying than I am,” “I think it’s the right move,” said Bunne, “We’re not soldiers; we’ve made dozens of mistakes despite our limited success. In fact, if we were soldiers, we might have saved everyone. We should stick with guarding the civs,” “We could have saved them,” said Ledian quietly, “If only I hadn’t hesitated,” “No,” said Loua “She’s right; you just didn’t want anyone who was already safe to get hurt. It wasn’t your fault Ledian, we saved everyone we could,” said Bunne “Then who’s fault was it?” asked Ledian, harsher than he had meant “That stupid fucking loser who attacked us of course,” said Tail loudly, smacking Ledian in the back with his wing, “Just wait till I get my hands on em…I’ll tear his eyes out!” Ledian smiled. Despite whatever could happen to them, he could always rely on his friends to cheer him up, no matter what happened. “Should we head out then?” “No, Moltres has sent soldiers to help the Brawlers in our absence, a group of Numel and Tangela to be exact. We are going to head back onto the summit. During the battle we are to watch the whole mountain and have Loua communicate with the birds from afar. That way we can help the defenses hold for a time. Yet whatever happens near the battles close, whether it looks like victory or defeat we high tail it out of here and report to the King,” said Ledian “Awesome, we get to stay with the generals,” said Tail already forgetting about not being allowed on the front lines. Suddenly they heard screams from the mountains base and knew the battle had begun…

Thanks everyone. Yea I had to choose from my favorites for the team and just hope they work out.

Nice, thats kind of what its based off of, save for the fact that the many characters here are based off of my friends and myself. News of the invasion of the capital had spread across the land forcing many governors to send out their troops to protect the citizens. The fear of the invisible ghost invaders had driven many to panic, believing that their world was coming to a horrific end. Not Treecko though. He knew they were all fools, and honestly, Treecko didn’t care what happened to anyone. He just wanted to continue living in his stretch of the forest as he always had; alone in quiet harmony. With the daily chores of the solitary soul completed Treecko sat from his perch in the trees and watched the sun sparkle on the Celebi statue he just finished polishing. He wasn’t quite sure why he kept it so clean, but something about it, its historic significance, its artistic and peaceful beauty, compelled him to tend to it. It wasn’t like Celebi had asked him to keep it. Celebi wasn’t even around, he probably didn’t even exist. The truth was it was just something Treecko liked doing. It was a beautiful statue, and a historic landmark, and he hated seeing how so many within this forest were allowed to fall into disarray. Not this one though, this one at least was going to span across the ages. Treecko closed his eyes and let the peace wash over him, relaxing his mind and body. It was his favorite time of day, where he could lie down, enjoy the sounds, smells, and feel of nature, and just let his mind wander off. It was what he enjoyed most of the solitary life. No one to bother him with their quarrels, no one to break the silence with noise, just him and nature, just as it should be. Suddenly a loud, almost shrill voice destroyed his peace and harmonious relaxation. “Treecko!” called a voice from below, “Treecko, I need your help,” Treecko reluctantly opened his eyes and looked down towards the ground. There Ty, a Tyrogue, was waving him to come down, overflowing with unused energy. Ty was a young Pokémon, being orphaned at a young age and left to care for his younger brother. For reasons unknown to Treecko, Ty has stuck near him rather than a real Pokémon village. Despite hating the noise and the company, Treecko felt obligated to make sure the brothers had enough to survive. Yet he wished he would wise up and leave to a place where someone would be glad to help them make a real life. “Treecko, my brother’s missing,” yelled Ty “Then find him,” “I can’t” “Look harder! Now just leave me alone, can’t you see I’m trying to relax before bed!” “But Treecko, please! This isn’t funny!” cried Ty “Ty, just calm down, you’re not going to convince Treecko to do anything that way,” Ty and Treecko both turned to see where the voice had originated from. A Mime Jr. had come into sight amongst the trees and underbrush. This Pokémon, Jr. lived with a local group of mimes who took care of each other until they were able to take on the world on their own. He often delivered what supplies Treecko had gathered for Ty, Treecko being too prideful and stubborn to do it himself. He’s the only one who could honestly call Treecko his friend, and the only one Treecko would be willing to call friend, however grudgingly he may admit it. “You here to lecture me Jr.?” asked Treecko “No, but with the attack on the capital, it might be a wise idea to search for Ty’s brother before it gets too dark,” “Come on Treecko, stop being a lazy…” pleaded Ty “Me lazy!” called Treecko, jumping from branch to branch to reach the ground, smacking Ty hard on the back of the head when he landed, “You were supposed to help me clean the shrine Ty! Where we you huh?” “I was uh…can we do this later?” asked Ty “Fine let’s go. Jr. can you sense where he ran off too?” asked Treecko “To the southwest….I think,” “Great, run towards the evil invisible invaders why don’t you,” said Treecko sarcastically The three moved quickly across the forest floor towards the southwest. They would need to find Ty’s brother quickly if they wanted to get home by the time the sunset. If they got home after dark, one of them was going to get a beating that Treecko would assure. Yet splitting up to cover more ground was not an option. They all knew too well to split up this late at night. Even though the Deep Forest Region had always been a peaceful place, of late it just seemed that the world was crumbling into pieces. Despite walking within these woods for all of his eighteen years, living alone for much the entire time, something didn’t feel right. Something seemed to be moving within the trees. He couldn’t see it, he couldn’t hear it, but he felt it, deep within his bones he felt it. He looked at the others and knew they too felt the uneasiness, the feeling that something dark, something evil, was gripping the forest that evening. Look at me; I’m jumping at shadows now. The forest hasn’t changed; things aren’t going to start jumping out of the shadows. Thought Treecko, trying to quell that new strange creepy feel of the forest. Despite his rationale the feeling still persisted. The feeling of unease, of fear, of eyes following them with every step they took. In fact the feelings seemed to be getting stronger and stronger. When they came to a clearing where Ty’s brother laid unconscious on the ground, Treecko was sure something was following them. “Brother!” yelled Ty trying to run towards his little bro, but Treecko grabbed Ty before he could even take a step. Something was wrong. Something was very wrong. “Let go!” yelled Ty “Stop Ty, calm down!” said Treecko quietly but firmly “What, what is it?” “There’s something here,” said Jr., “No matter how hard I try, my mind can’t reach out and find it. It’s like I’m being blocked somehow. Whatever it is, it’s strong,” “Jr., prepare a barrier, don’t use it yet, let’s just wait and see what happens. Ty wait here,” Treecko stepped forwards slowly, watching each and every direction for something, anything. A twist of a branch, a falling of leaves, the sound of a broken twig, but nothing came. No sound was made, no hint was given, all that was there was the overwhelming feeling of unease. He knew something was out there, but he didn’t know where, and he didn’t know why. What was causing such tension, such unease? What the hell had invaded his forest? He couldn’t answer those questions, but when he got his hands on them, he was going to tear them to pieces for disturbing his evening. For hurting little Tyrogue too of course. Attacking children was despicable, and Treecko would be glad to spend the energy to be rid of the assailant. As he got closer and closer to the youth his uneasiness grew. Somehow he knew that whatever was out there was staring right at him. Suddenly a dark, sharp clawed hand flew from the branches above towards Treecko. Jr.’s barrier appeared out of the blue, and Treecko smiled. Something was still wrong though. The claw neared the barrier, and then Treecko saw it, it was going to break right through. It shattered the barrier in an instant and flew towards him, moving nearly faster than he could track, but not quite. He leaped off his feet into a backflip, watching the claw just graze past where he was a moment before. When he landed he saw another, inches from his face. He rolled to the side, narrowly escaping again. Whatever it was, it was fast, but not fast enough. “Jr. find the damn thing!” called Treecko He jumped into the trees, climbing the branches faster than some can even run. Another shadowy claw flew towards him, but his time it was different, it was as if they shadows themselves were reaching out to grab him. He barely had enough time to jump to another branch, but another was waiting to through him off. He hugged the tree and he watched the shadow claw shatter the branch into nothing but splinters. Then he saw their assailant. Wrapped in darkness and shadows the foes threw claw after claw at Treecko. Yet Treecko was faster and he placed all his might into the next jump, and spinning he sent his tail pounding into the foes, but all it caught was smoke. Treecko fell, the momentum throwing him away from the branches. He closed his eyes and focused and began feeling the energy flow of the ghost, and struck. Using Absorb Treecko tried to drain as much energy from it as he could. He knew he only had seconds, and moments later it broke from his grasp as he landed safely on the forest floor. “Ty, quickly, find it, Foresight it!” called Jr. Ty’s eyes glowed red and were shooting across the trees, and then Treecko saw it. It was a face, a face of a ghost with a wicked smile and a long tongue. Below it, two clawed hands floated separately from its body. Its eyes held the definition of fear. Suddenly its eyes began to glow and Treecko saw the waves of Hypnosis chasing after him. He jumped and rolled to avoid, but no matter what he did the sleep inducing waves followed. A moment later he slipped and he waited for the attack to come. It didn’t. Instead he saw Jr.’s eyes glow with a faint blue light, fighting the hypnosis with a Confusion of his own. Yet the Hypnosis was slowly pushing him to the extreme of his abilities. Treecko knew he had only a moment remaining, so while Jr. and Ty held it in place he climbed above it and jumped. Spinning to increase his momentum Treecko smashed his tail, throwing all his might into Pound. The ghost fell shrieking, crashing into the roots and dirt below. Ty cheered for a moment, but two more claws rushed towards him. Yet Jr. was already there to protect him. This time his Barrier wasn’t going to fail. He wasn’t going to let it. He was going to protect his friends. The claws slammed into the psychic Barrier, pushing, bending, and cracking it, but it held and the claws dissipated into the dark. “Ty do you have it sighted?” asked Treecko sitting on a branch “Yea I think so,” “Then fake it out already!” Ty ran forward at the ghost and the ghost tried to strike him with his claws, but Ty faked left and struck with a fist into its eye. The ghost fell backwards into the air. “Jr.” yelled Treecko. Jr.’s eyes were already aglow, as if he was reading Treecko’s mind, and a barely visible psychic pulse shot into the ghost and threw it into the air. Treecko jumped from his branch and fell again into a spin. But as his tail sent the ghost crashing into the ground both claws struck him. The first in the chest, the second in the face and he flew through the air, crashing into a tree. He fell to the ground, Jr.’s Confusion breaking his fall. “Treecko, are you okay?” asked Ty running up to him “Yea,” said Treecko, wincing as he tried to stand “Use Synthesis Treecko you’ll need it if there are more like him. We were barely able to beat him as it was,” Treecko closed his eyes and focused his mind on the pains and bruises which covered his body. Suddenly a bright green light surrounded him, caressing and healing his wounds, leaving him almost completely pain free. He looked at the skies through the trees. He saw the stars shining brilliantly, the moon at its waning crescent. He knew how lucky he was. Synthesis was based solely on the weather, and if the moon was too strong or there were any clouds in the sky his efforts would have been ruined. He would have been paralyzed for the rest of the night. They were going to have to be extremely careful. “Ty, is your brother okay?” asked Treecko “Yea he’s just asleep,” responded Ty, “what the hell was that thing anyways?” “A ghost Pokémon I’d guess,” said Jr., “and the appearance of it gives credit to the attack on the capital. Concordia could be in grave danger,” “I don’t care. I just want to get home and relax,” muttered Treecko Treecko’s head whipped around as they heard another cry and then a young Mew emerged from the trees with two smaller ghosts in pursuit. Yet these ghosts were unlike the one they just fought. These ones lacked the hands he had, and their faces were round with a mean face, surrounded by shadowy gas. Suddenly a ball of darkness and a trio of small blue flames struck the Mew and sent it plunging into the ground before Treecko. “I…I think it’s the missing Prince!” exclaimed Jr., “He’s been burned badly, we have to tend to him now!” “I don’t think ssssoo,” hissed a voice from the ground nearby Out of the darkness slithered a long purple snake, an ekans. The two ghosts fell in line behind it. “My name isss Fang, please leave the young Prince in our care,” said Fang in a low warning hiss “What do you want with him?” asked Treecko “I only wisssh to bring him home,” smiled Fang “Liar! We saw you attack him. You leave Prince Mew alone!” yelled Ty “Oh, so you’re going to resist me? Very well, kill them all,” God Damn it Ty! The two ghosts rushed forward and Treecko saw two balls of shadow fly towards him. He jumped back, trying to pull free of the attack, but as he took to the air he saw the two balls of energy collide right in front of him, the explosion sending him crashing and bouncing off the ground, finally stopping against the hard bark of a tree. Treecko heard muscles and bones crack as he slowly got to his feet, his legs shaking heavily, barely able to hold him upright. He was not having a good night. “Treecko, just stay back and rest for a minute, we can handle this,” said Jr. placing a hand on Treecko’s shoulder “But…urgh,” protested Treecko, slumping against the tree “No, rest, and bide your time…” It took a matter of seconds to run through Jr.’s plans. Treecko nodded slowly and groaned as he climbed the tree to exit the battlefield. He was going to leave the fighting to his companions…his friends… Jr. closed his eyes, clearing his mind and allowing the psychic energy to flow through his entire being. That’s when he struck. He threw every last bit of his remaining psychic energy into the darkness and propelled it towards the ghosts. Their dual shadow balls clashed with the Confusion and Jr. felt the immense strain on his mind and body. He felt his muscles beginning to burn and strain past their limits. He knew he was reaching the extremes of his abilities, but something inside him made him go on. Something inside him began to awaken. He knew he was at the very limit of his psychic and physical capabilities, but he wasn’t going to let that stop him. No, he had watched his best friend Treecko take hits time and time again and get back up. No matter how much pain he was in, he got back up cause he wasn’t going to allow anyone to get hurt. He may not admit it, but he was protecting them, by keeping Ty and Jr. back. It was Jr.’s turn to protect them, to make the plan, to lead the attack. He needed to help his friends, but even more so, he needed to save the young Mew. He knew deep down inside he wanted to save the Mew. Not because he was a prince, but because it was just the right thing to do. He wasn’t going to lose. He could feel his psychic strength growing. Jr. looked to the treetops where Treecko had fled. He was on the tippy top of the tree, bathed in a brilliant green light. Jr. was almost ready, almost ready. He saw Treecko jump. “Now Ty!” yelled Jr. Jr. took all that building strength and emotions and threw it into the Confusion and he tossed the shadow balls right back into the ghosts and sent them crashing into the dirt. Ty rushed forward, foresight locking them in tangible form. He dove and spun, kicking up rocks, roots, dirt, anything at the ghosts. As they were blinded he moved in closer, and with another Rapid Spin, he kicked the ghosts high into the sky. They couldn’t have timed it better. Treecko was already in his spin and as the ghosts reached the peak of their flight Treecko met them with full power. His tail slammed into the both of them, and they plummeted onto the rocks below. They remained there, slumped and defeated. Treecko landed next to his friends. They were tired, breathing heavily, but they were stronger. But would it be enough? “Uselesssss ghosts. Very well, let’sss ssseee how you’ll fare against my might!” hissed Fang rushing forward at a blinding speed… Treecko: Treecko: Level 9: Lonely Nature, Thoroughly Cunning. Attacks: Pound, Leer, Absorb, Synthesis Jr.: Mime Jr.: Level 8: Calm Nature, Likes to Relax. Attacks: Tickle, Barrier, Confusion, Copycat, Meditate?? Ty: Tyrogue: Level 7: Impish Nature, Somewhat of a Clown. Attacks: Tackle, Helping Hand, Fake Out, Foresight, Rapid Spin.

Thanks, and no worries Amethyst, we figured you were preoccupied elsewhere.

So no cool title. My real name is Zach, but call me whatever I guess. I'm in college, studying Adolescent Education and Social Studies. I like to read and write in my free time, and sleep. I have written a few pokemon spin off mini stories I might post from time to time depending on my mood. I would really love to be an author sometime...if I ever get around to actually finishing a story. I joined this nearly a week ago with my friend ZenCloud. We've just gotten into Pokemon Online like over the summer so when we actually learned about the league we were kinda psyched to try it out. As for pokemon, I've played most of the games at some point and my two favorite types are probably Grass and Fire. My favorite is Typhlosion. So we're usually pretty laid back and probably won't post too much, just thought I'd introduce myself and my friend...sort of.