TEEN: Cherish the Moments

[TPJerematic]

Cherish The Moments

Welcome to this story. This is a re-write of Cherish the Moments, with minor plot changes and an updated writing style.

Hopefully this will entice more readers and make the story more enjoyable to read.

The old Cherish the Moments thread will no longer be used but will be left for reference.

This story is rated PG-13 for some coarse language, mild violence and mild romantic themes.

Awards:

This Pokémon Story takes place in the fan created Actopon Region of the Pokémon World.

New and Improved Map of the Actopon Region

Spoiler

List of Cities and Gyms in the Actopon Region:

Spoiler

Glassacre City (Psychic type Acre Gym,

Aura Badge, Leader Maria Harris)

Davenport City (Water type Bay Gym,

Harbour Badge, Leader Larry “Pixy” Foulke)

Redux City (Diverse type Möbius Gym,

Möbius Badge, Leaders Stephen and Jessica Warren)

Rockmount City (Rock type Mount Gym,

Mountain Badge, Leader Emma Hōseki)

Fairmoss City (Grass type Moss Gym,

Root Badge, Leader Heather)

Lightvale City (Dark type Shadow Gym,

Dusk Badge, Leader David)

Icebourne City (Ice type Frost Gym,

Shard Badge, Leader James)

Springhall Island (Flying type Air Gym,

Wing Badge, Leader Cypher Adler)

Badge credit to Arceus Shadow of Serebiiforums.com

Actopon Pokémon League Elite Four and Champion

Spoiler

Elite 4 (Hometown):

Electric – Hal (Yellowcake Town)

Dragon – Abbie (Raven Island – Fox Archipelago)

Normal – Keira (Redwell Town)

Steel – Campbell Hōseki (Rockmount City)

Champion:

Ghost – Jordan (Birchwick Town)

Actopon Pokemon League Infomation

Spoiler

Rules of the Actopon Pokemon League Tournament
Actopon League Round One Group Example

List of Small Towns/Areas:

Spoiler

Redwell Town (Home of the Regional Professor, Professor Aspen)

Birchwick Town (Has the regional Pokémon Tower, the Tower of Souls)

Janham Town (Stephen’s Home Town)

Fairmoss Forest (North of Fairmoss City)

Yellowcake Town (Contains regional Power Plant)

Fox Archipelago (Islands off the coast of Davenport City with Springhall Island contained within)

Names of the Islands of the Fox Archipelago:
1 Snake Island, 2 Solid Island, 3 Liquid Island, 4 Octopus Island, 5 Ocelot Island, 6 Raven Island, 7 Mantis Island, 8 Wolf Island, 9 Hal Island, 10 Raiden Island and 11 Sunny Island

DISCLAIMER: POKÉMON IS NOT MINE; THIS STORY IS. I AM ALLOWED TO USE POKÉMON AS LONG I SAY THAT THEY BELONG TO NINTENDO/GAME FREAK, HOWEVER THE STORY, CHARATERS AND REGION BELONG TO ME.


Chapter List:

Prologue: Yet Another Day at the Gym

Chapter 1: Fateful Encounter

Chapter 2: New Friends

Chapter 3: Re-hitting the Open Road

Chapter 4: Incident on Rock Mountain

Chapter 5: Daybreak in Rockmount City

Chapter 6: People Pokemon and History

Chapter 7: Success Favours the Prepared

Prologue: Yet Another Day at the Gym​

The Gym Leader sat slumped on the chair in his private viewing box, overlooking the battlefield. Below was the third trainer of the day to challenge his gym; a boy no older than fourteen years, dressed very casually, a pair of yellow shorts matched with a bright blue t-shirt, a backwards facing white baseball cap hiding most of his short brown hair. Despite the boy’s youth he had managed to defeat three of the gym trainers with relative ease, choosing to heal his Pokémon with his own medicines rather than leave to heal at the Pokémon Centre. While this impressed the Gym Leader to a degree, he was still not convinced of the trainer’s ability. He closed his eyes as the battle below started.

“Drifloon I choose you!” The young trainer’s voice had a confident tone to it as he threw a Poké Ball onto the battlefield. The Poké Ball popping open in the air with a flash of light, releasing the Balloon Pokémon before recoiling back towards the trainer.

“Go Yanmega, prepare for battle!” The fourth gym trainer threw his Great Ball high into the air, releasing the eager Ogre Darner Pokémon with a flash of blue light.

For a moment the air in the gym stood still as both trainers decided on their moves and strategy. The Drifloon and Yanmega floated opposite each other, sizing up their opponent, waiting for their trainers command.

“Yanmega, Air Slash.”

“Drifloon, return.”

The young challenger held up the Drifloon’s Poké Ball, a beam of red light dissolving the Balloon Pokémon back into the ball’s confinement. A deft flick of the wrist allowed the challenger to switch to his next Pokémon. A Great Ball was thrown forward, clattering against the floor before bursting open. A loud roar shook the gym as an Onix emerged from the blue light, the Rock Snake Pokémon stretching to full length as the Yanmega began its attack; flying high into the air above the battlefield, its wings glowing white as they vibrated. Moments later the wings pulsed in the air, the invisible edge only viewable by the wake of condensation being formed at the tips as it sliced through the air.

The Onix shuddered slightly as the edge collided with his rocky body, without waiting for a command from his trainer the Onix hurled himself at the Yanmega as it tried to compose itself for another attack.

Switch out you moron. The gym leader thought, his eyes closed not knowing what attack the Onix was using. It’s a rock type Pokémon, all it need to do is use Rock Throw and your strongest Pokémon is down and out. He sighed as the gym trainer’s indecision became apparent, opening his eyes as the door to his viewing box clicked open.

As the Onix collided with the Yanmega, knocking the Ogre Darner Pokémon across the battlefield, a Gardevoir walked through the door, closing it as quickly as she had opened it. The Embrace Pokémon walked over to the Gym Leader; however she was no normal Pokémon. Her body, usually covered with her species natural gown, was instead covered by a dark blue, long sleeved t-shirt, with a hole in the middle allowing her horn like sensor to jut out, all the while exposing her midriff and tight fitting denim jeans that hugged her slender form.

“That Onix has a very powerful Double-Edge.” The Gardevoir spoke aloud in perfect English. “Zach is going to struggle to defeat him.” She looked across at the Gym Leader as he sighed and sat up.

“What other Pokémon does Zach have on him?” His voice was quiet; the Gym Leader hated talking when he was focused on his trainee’s battles.

“Magmar.” The Gardevoir replied in a whisper-like voice.

The Gym Leader rolled his eyes, moaning softly as he stood up from his chair, leaning against the tinted glass. As he looked out on the battlefield, Zach returned his Yanmega to its Great Ball while throwing a Poké Ball forward releasing his Magmar onto the field. The challenger’s eyes lit up as he savoured the possibility of getting to challenge the Gym Leader.

The serene atmosphere in the viewing box was suddenly broken as a powerful earthquake tore though the gym building. The reactive foundations doing their job keeping the building up while allowing the damage from the attack to hurt Zach’s Magmar, sending the Spitfire Pokémon flying back slamming against the trembling wall of the gym.

However the Gym Leader and Gardevoir acted as if nothing was even happening, and with their experience, this was a mild earthquake. The Gardevoir walked up to the tinted window, placing a slender, pale white hand on his shoulder.

“Stephen, you ready?” The Gardevoir asked, her ruby red eyes softly staring at him.

“Sure thing Jessica, let me just grab my Poké Balls.” Stephen turned to leave the viewing box, the door clicking open as he walked toward it. “What’s the bet that he won’t understand the gym rules?” He asked Jessica as she followed Stephen down the hall, leading to the battlefield. The walls held several hundred small picture frames, each containing a photo graph of a winning trainer at the gym, with their Pokémon behind them and the Gym’s badge proudly displayed in either their case or on their jacket.

“I have no idea Stephen, but to be honest, I don’t care; I just want a good battle.” Jessica replied as they descended a flight of stairs, entering a small room behind the battlefield. On the wall were several rows of many differing types of Poké Ball, all of them belonging to one of the Gym Leaders. “So what Pokémon are you going to be using?”

“The usual.” Came the plain reply, as Stephen pulled three deactivated Poké Balls from his pockets, however they were no ordinary Poké Balls – one was a Premier Ball, another a Luxury Ball, while the third was a rare Cherish Ball.

“What a surprise!” Jessica stuck her tongue out as she replied. “Well I’ll use Abigail, Sparky and Nova.” She reached up, grabbing three Poké Balls from the shelves. “They should be more than enough.”

The two Gym Leaders stood in front of the large door that led out onto the battlefield. On the other side the challenger looked on nervously, only now noticing the detailing on the door, the large ornate carving of the gym badge surrounded by stylized Pokémon. Out of the corner of his eye he could see the gym trainer, Zach, slipping on a black and white striped shirt, while getting a green and red flag from a small podium at the side of the battlefield. The challenger flinched as the door suddenly began to split open, a spot light shining its light on the door as the figures of the Gym Leaders walked out.

“Hello young trainer, how have you been finding our gym trainees? Good?” As Stephen and Jessica walked towards their end of the battlefield, he rattled off the speech he gave all trainers who were about to challenge him. The slightly bored tone to his voice did little is dampen the mood of the challenger. “Now that you have defeated the four trainees of this gym we accept your challenge to the Möbius gym for the Möbius badge.”

The young trainer’s eyes gleamed with anticipation and he listened intently to the Gym Leader’s words.

“The rules for the battle are as follows: It will be a six-on-six double battle – we, as joint leaders, will use three Pokémon each and you will use six Pokémon; Wherever possible all sides must have two Pokémon on the field,” Stephen yawned, quickly covering his mouth and turning away. The challenger looked on with a frown. “Sorry. Both yourself and Gym Leaders will be allowed to switch Pokémon at any point during the battle.”

“Wait ... what?” The challenger’s frown deepened as he queried the rule. “Normally the Gym Leaders are not allowed to change Pokémon during battle, why can you?”

Stephen rolled his eyes and gave a subtle shake of his head. “It's because this gym does not have a specific type. As a result, we do not have Pokémon with similar moves and abilities. Consequently in order for us to give you a fair battle worthy of earning a badge we must be able to switch and counter you Pokémon in the same way you will to ours.” Stephen looked at the clock above the referee’s podium and nodded to Zach as he stood upon it.

“Are you ready?” Zach called out to the challenger.

“Y-yes sir and ma’am.” The challenger said to Stephen and Jessica.

“Both the Challenger and Gym Leaders release your Pokémon on to the battlefield and prepare for battle!” Zach called out holding up a red and green flag, red for the Gym Leaders and green for the challenger.

The challenger threw two Poké Balls out onto the battlefield releasing his Exploud, the Loud Noise Pokémon, living up to its name, bellowing out a battle cry and his Omastar, the Spiral Pokémon glaring across the battlefield at the opposing Gym Leaders.

“Go Abigail!” Jessica called out while tossing her Poké Ball from her hand onto the field.

“And go Arkbird!” Stephen called out while tossing his Cherish Ball onto the field. The challenger’s face showed the classic confused look all the challengers at the gym have when battling the leaders. Few of them are used to battling a Gym Leader who has nicknamed their Pokémon. The challenger looked at the balls as they opened releasing the Pokémon held within, in this case Jessica's Absol and Stephen’s Togekiss. The two Gym Leader Pokémon faced the opponents with absolute calm, Abigail crouching slightly, keeping the muscles in her legs sprung and ready to strike, while Arkbird slowly flapped his wings, bobbing ever so slightly in time with his breathing.

“Begin the battle!” Zach called out to the three trainers on the battlefield.

“Exploud use Screech on the Absol and Omastar use Rock Blast on the Togekiss!” The challenger called out to his Pokémon.

“Arkbird use Aura Sphere on the Omastar, fast!” Stephen called out to his Togekiss.

“And Abigail use Night Slash on the Exploud!” Jessica called out to her Absol. The two Gym Leaders’ Pokémon attacked before the challenger’s could even move. Arkbird fired off a glowing ball of energy at the Omastar who just seemed to stand there, unable to move as the ball hit the Pokémon square in the face. It was sent flying backwards, colliding against the wall behind the challenger. A second after Arkbird moved, Abigail moved too, jumping into the air as the scythe on the side of her head glowed with a dark eerie light. With a flick of her head Abigail sent a dark edge towards the unwitting Exploud, who, like the Omastar next to him, was sent flying backwards, slamming against the wall behind the challenger. Both the Exploud and Omastar were out cold.

“The Challenger’s Pokémon are unable to battle!” Zach called out while holding a red flag out on the side of the two Gym Leaders.

“Oh wow, Exploud and Omastar return.” The trainer held both the Pokémon’s Poké Balls, beams of red light pulling both of them to their Poké Balls containment.

“Sorry guys.” The trainer apologised to the Poké Balls as he switched, placing the tired Pokémon in his bag before taking two more Poké Balls from his belt. “Go Bagon and Blastoise!” The trainer called out while throwing out the two Poké Balls on to the field.

“Ready Jess?” Stephen asked while looking across at his fellow Gym Leader, who nodded in reply and looked out knowing exactly what move both Stephen and she were going to use.

“Arkbird use Air Slash on the Bagon!” Stephen called out with a slight sadness in his voice.

“And use Night Slash on Blastoise Abigail!” Jessica told her Absol while trying to add some excitement to the battle.

“Blastoise use Withdraw and Bagon use Headbutt on the Absol!” The trainer desperately called out to his Pokémon, knowing that they were too slow to react in time to stop the attacks from the Gym Leaders Pokémon from hitting. Arkbird’s wings flapped strongly, causing the air to slice across the battlefield. It hit the Bagon trying to ram Abigail with its head, knocking the small dragon to the floor. As the Blastoise tried to tuck into its shell Abigail’s dark attack hit the Shellfish Pokémon incredibly hard on the head. Both of the challenger’s Pokémon again fell with only one hit.

“Both of the Challenger’s Pokémon are unable to battle.” Zach declared while holding up the red flag. The challenger returned both Pokémon to their Poké Balls.

“I concede the battle.” The challenger’s voice waivered slightly as he swallowed his pride and admitted defeat. “I cannot beat you and do not want to hurt my other two Pokémon.”

“That is commendable and proves you are a good trainer.” Jessica told the challenger, walking up to him as Abigail returned to her side, sitting on her haunches and looking up at her trainer. “You need to train your Pokémon to a higher level and focus on their defences - any thoughts Stephen?”

The words fell on empty space. Stephen had begun to walk off into the back room, yawning. “Okay then, we await your next challenge.” Jessica said with a rushed tone, looking around, trying to get Stephen to stay, but it was too late - the challenger had already turned and left the room with his head held low.

“STEPHEN!!” Jessica yelled out and chased the Gym Leader into the back room.

 

[Ho-oh]

*snip*

Hello again, TPJ. I'm willing to read and follow this as I did your old story. Don't expect much of a review from me, though; I don't have the time to sit down and write anything longer than a few dozen words.

 

[Legacy]

Great to see CTM back in action as well! I'm glad both this and Like a Line Drive are back because they were great... and I know the re-write will be even better!

 

[TPJerematic]

Hello again, TPJ. I'm willing to read and follow this as I did your old story. Don't expect much of a review from me, though; I don't have the time to sit down and write anything longer than a few dozen words.

That's ok, just so long as you post tell me what you think of the chapter ... however brief. It helps to keep me motivated

Great to see CTM back in action as well! I'm glad both this and Like a Line Drive are back because they were great... and I know the re-write will be even better!

YAY

 

[Gama]

Never read the original of this, always wanted to but there was simply too much of it by the time I actually made the decision to read it and I'm not the kind of person who has the patience to read through reams and reams of fanfic.

Anyway, this sounds like an interesting premise for a story - from the point of view of the Gym Leader, I can't wait to see what happens next and I can't imagine what the actual premise of the story is going to be...

Also, I'm interesed to see more about Jessica...

Well, this will have to wait! Well done, keep it up!

 

[TPJerematic]

Never read the original of this, always wanted to but there was simply too much of it by the time I actually made the decision to read it and I'm not the kind of person who has the patience to read through reams and reams of fanfic.

Anyway, this sounds like an interesting premise for a story - from the point of view of the Gym Leader, I can't wait to see what happens next and I can't imagine what the actual premise of the story is going to be...

Also, I'm interesed to see more about Jessica...

Well, this will have to wait! Well done, keep it up!

Irony is a goddamn bitch.

I was trying to read your fic as well and didn't for the same damn reason.

Now that we have shared in our fails i will endevor to read your fic

 

[JetStream]

*Claps*

Nice, very nice. I need to go read the other one.

 

[TPJerematic]

*Claps*

Nice, very nice. I need to go read the other one.

Thanks.

I wouldn't advise reading the older one ... it spoils the plot (obviously) as has things that won't be kept or are getting changed around

 

[TPJerematic]

I feel the need for a small disclaimer here. Please do not think that I have ... 'ruined', for lack of a better word, what you think is an interesting concept by the start of this chapter. There is a reason for locations of some characters.

It will all come together is a (hopefully) interesting way.

Chapter 1: Fateful Encounter​

“It’s a beautiful day! Sky falls, you feel like it’s a beautiful day.” The young boy sang out of tune while dancing down the road, much to the humour of the two people walking with him. Sam Nagato is a normal fourteen-year-old boy: lively, energetic, care free, and a little stupid. Coming from Pallet Town, Kanto, he is a budding Pokémon trainer in his fourth year of training.

Ever since he was young Sam had been fascinated with Pokémon. Both of his parents had been trainers and he too wished to become a trainer, maybe even a famous champion. After some hard work and luck he passed the trainer’s licence exam and received a Charmander from Professor Oak a couple of months after his tenth birthday as well as a Shellder from his parents. Sam then progressed though both the Kanto and Johto regions, finishing in the top 16 in both League Championships. After deciding he needed a change of pace and location, Sam came to the Actopon region to challenge the Pokémon League of the region.

“Sam, please stop; you’re murdering that song... and stop dancing around like that as well; you’re giving me a headache.” The much older boy moaned at Sam as he trudged along behind.

“Oh stop complaining Alvin; I just want to get to the next city so I can earn another Actopon League Badge!” Sam shouted back to Alvin, who was falling behind.

Alvin O’Brien is a twenty-two-year-old Pokémon Researcher who works with Professor Aspen, the most prolific Pokémon researcher in the Actopon Region. Even from a young age Alvin preferred to study and learn about Pokémon from books, rather than going out to become a trainer. He is currently working on his Research Degree with a paper on, ‘The Study of Diversity of Habitats of Pokémon within the Actopon Region.’

He normally spends his time in the lab either assisting Professor Aspen with his work or writing up his own work; however within three years Alvin had expended the majority of relevant research within Actopon and was forced to look further afield. As well as notes delivered to him from Professor Oak, via Sam, and his younger sister becoming old enough to get a Pokémon of her own, Alvin was practically ordered by Professor Aspen to go with his sister and use a Pokédex to collate information on the ranges of Pokémon within Actopon. However, he was beginning to regret accepting the offer to travel with Sam and his own sister, who was now pushing him to catch up with Sam.

“HURRY UP YOU SLOWPOKE!” Alvin’s sister Kei shouted up to her brother. Kei O’Brien is a ten-year-old Pokémon Trainer who, like most children received her first Pokémon not long after her tenth birthday. Thanks to her brother’s connection to Professor Aspen, Kei was the first in line to receive the newest starter Pokémon at the laboratory, choosing a Squirtle. While she can appear to be stand-offish and obnoxious to her brother at times, deep down she is very kind hearted and cares deeply and greatly respects Alvin, constantly looking up to him for advice and support.

“So... what city are we headed to and how far is it?” Sam inquired to a wall of groaning from Alvin.

“Idiot.” Alvin whispered to himself before taking a deep breath and turning to face Sam. “For the last time we are going to Redux City, home of the Möbius Gym and its badge. ‘Kay? And if I’m right we will be there within half an hour.” Alvin sighed.

“Wait?” Sam tapped the side of his head for a second before pointing at thin air, his eyebrows raised in realization. “Isn’t that where one of the Gym Leaders is a Pokémon themselves?”

“Oh yeah.” Kei squeaked while stuffing a hand into her brother’s bag, rummaging around for the official League Guidebook. She promptly started flicking through the book to the relevant page. “Aren’t the Gym Leaders friends of yours?”

“Yep, but I haven’t seen either of them for ages.” Alvin sighed as he thought. “It will be nice to see them again.”

“Well let’s hurry up and get there.” Sam shouted while running off ahead with Kei closely following. Alvin rolled his eyes before running to catch up.


***


Half an hour later and the three arrived at the outskirts of Redux City, the rolling country side that made up the route from Actopon’s capital city Davenport, quickly becoming a tight urban unit. The city itself was rather small, no more than five miles across with very few tall buildings. Initially serving as a commuter suburb of Davenport to give workers at the business district in the south of the city, a nice quiet place with a more rural feel to live in; as a result Redux City became a large and somewhat sleepy city.

A walk into the city centre revealed the location of the Pokémon Centre, as well as the City’s Gym. Sam, Kei and Alvin entered into the Pokémon Centre to find it surprisingly empty, with only a couple of trainers sitting on the couches staring into space as they waited for their Pokémon to heal. When queried the Nurse Joy behind the counter just shrugged before replying that it seemed to be a slow day at the gym and how it was unsurprising considering how early it was in the gym season.

While their Pokémon were being healed, the three had a quick lunch courtesy of vending machines within the Pokémon Centre with Sam reading the guide book for some hints on the Möbius Gym.

“So there are two Gym Leaders.” Sam vocalised his thoughts as he continued to read. “Well that should be an interesting experience. I’ve never heard of that before.”

“Really?” Kei looked up from her milkshake with her head tilted to the side. “You’ve never been in a double battle?”

“What? ... No!” Sam frowned slightly. “I’ve been in double battles before, I’ve had some here in Actopon. Remember?” Kei mouthed ‘oh yeah’ before returning to her milkshake.

“It is pretty unique.” Alvin replied pointing at the book. “Does that thing have their picture in it?” For a couple of moments Sam flicked through the pages.

“Yeah, there should be but ... The page has been ripped out” Sam turned the book around for Alvin and Kei to see. “See?”

“Why would someone do that Alvin?” Kei asked looking up at her brother for a moment.

“No idea. Anyway the Gym isn’t a long way from here.” Alvin stood up, stretching his arms. “We can go see if the leaders are there.” The three quickly tided away any mess and retrieved their Pokémon from the bored Nurse Joy, leaving with Sam leading the way.


***


Kei gasped as the Möbius Gym loomed into view, running forward to get a better look. The Möbius Gym is located in a large battle park right at the centre of Redux City. The Gym has a sleek and clean design; the pale yellow rectangular building has curved corners, at each is a column with a vibrant red helix, the spiral standing out against the general paleness of the Gym. At the front was a simple sliding door made up of heavily tinted glass, with the same glass running along the walls below the roof of the Gym. An arch spanned between the two pillars at the front of the gym, the name of the gym written in a simple yet elegant font; a large lit Poké Ball hanging from the arch, above the door.

The grounds surrounding the gym are filled with small battlefields catering to most types, ranging from simple grass and dirt to rocky terrain and lakes. Today they were mostly empty with only one of the lake battlefields being used by two trainers, battling with a Floatzel and Skarmory. As Sam, Kei and Alvin walked towards the gym they noticed a small building next to the gym, the small sign above the door read ‘Möbius Cafe’. Several tables were in front of the building, as with the battlefields all but one was empty, with two people sitting half-watching the battle.

As Sam ran the remaining distance to the gym he noticed a small piece of paper pinned to the sign next to the door. However he choose to ignore it and headed straight for the door, slamming into the glass as it refused to open. Sam rubbed his head and moaned as Kei laughed taking the piece of paper from the sign.

“You should really read these signs before walking into things.” Kei giggled as she handed the paper to Sam.

“Stupid door. What kind of gym isn’t open at one in the afternoon?” Sam scowled as he looked down at the paper. “Gym’s closed for the day; three boring battles made us really hungry, we may be back later. Signed, the Gym Leaders.” Sam read the elegantly written notice and visibly became annoyed. “What the crap?! They can’t just close the gym ‘cause they’re bored!” He looked to his right and saw the couple sitting at a table outside of the Möbius Café. One of them had something to drink; the other was reading a broadsheet newspaper that obscured most of themselves, leaving only what appeared to be the fingers of two green-gloved hands holding the newspaper up.

“Maybe those two may know where the Gym Leaders are?” Sam stuck the paper back onto the sign and walked towards the Cafe.

“Oh genius Sam, just brilliant,” Kei sarcastically growled, “You’re going to bother that couple who are trying to have lunch, just because you are desperate for a battle.” Kei stormed off after Sam, much to Alvin’s amusement as he casually strolled after the two.

“Excuse me,” Sam asked, approaching the couple, “could you help me?”

The two people seemed not to respond, this really annoyed Sam, who repeated his question as he got to the table and stopped. Unknown to him, from behind the newspaper, the Gardevoir’s eyes gave off a subtle light blue glow, as did the three Poké Balls on Sam’s belt, which was barely noticeable in the bright daylight.

“Yes little boy, what do you want?” The man sitting next to his partner sipped his drink, looking down at a notepad filled with unintelligible scribbles and numbers.

“I would like to know where the Möbius Gym Leaders are so I can challenge them to a Pokémon battle for the Möbius badge!” Sam declared while putting both hands on to table. “However, they seem to have gone out to lunch. Would you know where they are?” Sam waited for a reply.

While he was talking, the Gardevoir was psychically scanning the Poké Balls, looking at what Pokémon were contained inside, their moves, and training strengths. She then telepathically transmitted this information to the man sitting next to her. He was less than impressed.

“Look, and trust me on this, don’t waste your time.” The man bluntly told Sam, whose eyes widened in shock. “You wouldn’t last more than five minutes in that Gym and your Pokémon don’t deserve to suffer.”

“How do you know that?!” Sam retorted, still recovering from the shock. Both Alvin and Kei had caught up to Sam and were just listening to the exchange taking place.

“Well I know that you wouldn’t stand a chance in that Gym because ...” The man pulled down the newspaper from in front of the Gardevoir, showing her face. “... My friend here looked at your Pokémon and they are far too weak to be able to battle the Gym Leaders. On top of that, you only have three Pokémon and the rules for the Gym state that you need six to battle the Gym Leaders.”

Sam frowned and glanced down at his Poké Balls, placing a hand on one of them.

“I also know that the Gym Leaders won’t battle you because-” He was cut off as the Gardevoir finished the sentence.

“-You interrupted our lunch!” Jessica said with a flourish and promptly picked up the newspaper and continued to read it, while Stephen picked up his drink, and finished it off as Sam and Kei stood in stunned silence.

After a few moments of Sam and Kei standing with their mouths open in shock, Alvin finally broke up, laughing at the two kids.

“I wish I had a video camera!” Alvin giggled, pushing past the two stunned kids he walked up the man. “How are you, Stephen?” Alvin asked, pulling up a chair and promptly falling onto it.

Stephen looked at Alvin and smiled to himself, it had been a while since he had last seen his friend and was glad that Alvin finally got out of the lab to see the region he had been studying for the last five years.

“Bored and ...” Stephen looked at Sam and Kei, he recognised Alvin's sister but had no idea who the kid next to her was. “... Surprised they are still staring at poor Jess as if she’s some kind of freak.” He sighed, his gaze still focused on Sam.

“Do you think we should explain what’s going on to those two?” Alvin lazily asked, pointing in Sam and Kei’s direction.

“Jess, I think the kids have been shocked long enough now,” Stephen said to Jessica, who had now finished her newspaper and was quietly sipping her drink while staring into the eyes of Sam and Kei. “Want to explain it to them?”

“I suppose I have to ...” Jessica sighed and looked up at Sam and Kei. “Take a seat and I’ll tell you.” As she spoke two chairs were pulled to the table by an unseen psychic force. Sam and Kei sat down, glancing at each other before focusing on Jessica. “Before you ask anything: Yes I am a Gardevoir, yes I am speaking naturally, no I’m not using any form of psychic ability and yes I am co-Gym Leader of the Möbius Gym.” Jessica waited for a moment as both Sam and Kei stared at her.

“Oh wow.” Sam spluttered as he spoke. “H ... how?”

“How, what?” Jessica replied. “How did I learn to speak, read and write?” Sam nodded. “Well I ...”

“Went to a school with a bunch of 5 year old kids!” Stephen interrupted with a smile.

Jessica glared at him for moment before subtly shaking her head and restoring her composure. “That’s how. It was a lot of work but worth it.”

“So you’re a Pokémon-Pokémon trainer?” Kei sheepishly asked while avoiding making eye contact.

“Yes.” Jessica responded, finishing her drink, “Surprising isn’t it?” Jessica rummaged in her pockets for a moment before pulling out some change and leaving it on the table paying the bill for the lunch. “So what are we doing now?” She queried to Stephen who was already standing up, chatting intently with Alvin.

“Well I’m too depressed to battle anymore today and I want to show Alvin the Pokémon back at the house,” Stephen told Jessica while grabbing his notepad. For a moment he stopped to think before turning his attention to Sam and Kei “You two can come along if you want.” The two quickly grabbed their bags and stood up, eager to spend some time with the two Gym Leaders.

Jessica and Kei walked off ahead, the young girl eagerly listening to the answers to her questions. A short distance behind Alvin walked alongside Stephen with Sam a step behind.

“So why are you out here in the real world? You normally spend all your time in the lab back in Redwell with Aspen.”

“This is why.” Alvin said as he pulled out the Pokédex. “Aspen told me that I had to do some fieldwork for my research paper, so I have to traipse around Actopon and use this thing to log data.” He sighed and shook his head. “So my parents decided it would be a great idea to go around with my sister.”

“So what about him?” Stephen pointed back at Sam, who took notice and caught up. “He’s clearly not from Actopon, his accent means he’s from Kanto. I’m guessing Viridian City.”

“Close.” Sam excitedly replied. “I’m from Pallet Town.”

Stephen laughed humourlessly. “Very funny kid. Seriously where are you from?”

“Pallet Town.” Sam frowned as he looked up at Stephen.

“He is.” Alvin added. “Sam is from Pallet Town. He delivered the notes I had requested from Professor Oak.” Stephen shook his head.

“No way.” Stephen looked down at Sam. “No way is this kid from Pallet.”

Sam sighed and slid his hand into his trouser pocket, pulling out his Trainer’s Licence, handing it to Stephen. “Look at it.” Sam pointed at the home town line. “See, Pallet Town, Kanto.”

“Well I’ll be damned!” Stephen shook his head, handing Sam his licence back. “Sorry kid, you must get that a lot.” He ruffled Sam’s hair and gave him a smile. “So why are you hanging around with this loser?” Stephen earned a kick in the ankle from Alvin.

“Well he originally asked me to go with his sister ...” Sam started to answer but was cut off by Alvin.

“Because I was going to send my sister with him.” Alvin hurriedly replied. “Professor Oak told me that Sam was a good and mostly responsible kid and Kei was annoying the fuck out of me, begging me to get her first in line for the starter Pokémon.” He took a deep breath. “I didn’t anticipate being given a Pokédex and a shove from Aspen.” Stephen shook his head and smiled.

“Silly Alvin.” He mocked.


***


Stephen and Jessica lead Alvin, Sam and Kei back to their house on the outskirts of the city. Along the way the two Gym Leaders were constantly recognised by citizens and trainers alike. Stephen politely shrugged off most of the advances with a smile and a nod, while Jessica gave some polite conversation and a handshake to those who offered.

After a relatively short walk the group found themselves outside of the main area of Redux City, looking at a huge hedgerow. A walk down the path running next to the hedge revealed a large iron gate with an ornate symbol in the middle. After walking down the drive they came to a small, unassuming house, however, it was the land behind the house that impressed Sam and Kei. Fifty acres of Pokémon ranch filled with a variety of Pokémon all belonging to the Möbius gym.

“Now what’s this?” Stephen mused aloud as he spotted a small plain package on the doorstep. “How did this get here?” He picked the parcel up, rolled it around to try and find who sent it.

“No idea.” Jessica frowned as he took the package from Stephen, giving it a quick scan. “It contains four Poké Balls ... they have Pokémon in them too.” She carefully handed the package back, pointing at the return address. “It looks like The League sent it.”

“Why not send it to the Gym then?” Stephen sighed as he opened the front door. “I’ll phone them up and see what this is all about. Why don’t you show the kids the Pokémon ‘round the back?” Sam and Kei’s eyes lit up at the idea.

“Oh wow please?” Kei squeaked and tugged on Alvin’s arm, looking up at her brother.

“Sure, I need to release a couple of mine for some rest.” Jessica shrugged. “Come on kids.” She headed of around the building with Sam and Kei in tow, while Stephen entered the house with Alvin.


***


As soon as Stephen was inside he ripped open the package while walking into the living room, he stopped in the door way, gasping as he did.

“What?” Alvin asked as he quickly avoided bumping into Stephen. “What’s up?”

“No way ... That’s impossible.” Stephen’s voice was whisper-like. “How in the name of all that is holy...”

“What is it?” Alvin became more alarmed trying to see what Stephen was holding, while he continued to walk into the living room.

“Dear Mr Warren.” Stephen read off the letter that was inside the package, his voice was cold. “We received this parcel for you at the Actopon Pokémon League Headquarters in Davenport three days ago. As per Article 23b of League Regulations the parcel was opened. Upon discovery of the contents we immediately forwarded the items to you for further investigation. Please contact Michael Young at ... blah, blah, blah.”

“Stephen?” Alvin slowly approached as Stephen threw the letter onto one of the couches before slumping onto it himself, staring intently at the contents of the package.

“Why would someone send these to me?” Stephen looked down at the four Cherish Balls in his hands. He looked up at Alvin, showing him the Cherish Balls.

“Oh my ...” Alvin’s eyes went wide as he saw them. “Stephen ...”

“I need to get Jessica.” Stephen interrupted, carefully placing the Cherish Balls on the table before dashing out of the room.


***


Outside the back of the house, Jessica was giving Sam and Kei a chance to get up close to some of hers and Stephen’s Pokémon. As the three made their way back to the house Kei noticed a small fenced-off enclosure, as soon as she was close enough to see, her eyes widened.

“Awwwww!” Kei cried out as she ran towards the enclosure. “Look at the baby Pokémon.” She quickly covered the ground. “Cleffa, Pichu, Magby, Riolu and even Eevee’s!” As she reached out to open the gate, her shoulder was grasped and Kei was pulled away.

“You can’t just run in there.” Stephen looked down at Kei with a stern expression as he released her. Jessica and Sam had managed to catch up.

“Kei, those Pokémon are very young and are not all that comfortable around humans.” Jessica explained. “They even attack Stephen sometimes.”

“Speaking of...” Sam added looking at him “What was in the parcel?” Stephen simply motioned towards the house with his head and walked back inside; Jessica, Sam and Kei quickly followed.

“What did the league want?” Jessica asked with a slightly worried tone to her voice.

“I don’t know yet, I haven’t phoned them yet ... I want you to see them first.” Stephen replied as he led the three into the living room, where Alvin was sitting and staring at the Cherish Balls. Jessica gave a slight gasp as she saw them while Sam and Kei stood silent.

“These were inside that package!?” Jessica looked up at Stephen, who just nodded in reply. “Why would The League send these to you?”

“They didn’t.” Stephen replied “Someone else did. Thing is ... they don’t know who. These were dropped off at the HQ addressed to me. There was nothing else inside, nothing telling them who sent it.” He sighed, staring intently at the Cherish Balls. “I want to know what Pokémon are inside but ...” Stephen’s voice trailed off as he descended into deep thought.

“So what’s the problem?” Sam was quiet as he spoke. “If you want to find out what Pokémon are inside the balls, why don’t you just open them?”

“You don’t understand.” Stephen answered holding up one of the balls. “These are Cherish Balls. They are extremely rare; in my entire eighteen year Pokémon training career I have only ever had two of them.” He flashed his belt showing one of the aforementioned Cherish Balls. “One contains Arkbird, my treasured Togekiss; the other is empty, waiting for the perfect Pokémon to be housed in it.” A look of mild shock spread across Alvin, Sam and Kei’s faces. “Now can you see my dilemma? Why would a trainer with four of the damn things, give them to me out of the blue?” Stephen asked putting down the ball with the others, staring at them with the same serious look on his face.

“But if you release them, wouldn’t you get a better understanding of what’s going on?” Kei asked, giving Stephen a quizzical look.

“The problem is...” Jessica answered. “... Cherish Balls are normally used to capture an extremely rare Pokémon due to the rarity of the ball. So Stephen doesn’t want to release a possibly rare Pokémon, who could be scared and run off.”

Kei walked up to the table and picked up the four Cherish Balls. “Well there’s no point just staring at them.” Kei said as she walked towards the door. “If you won’t find out what Pokémon are hidden inside these balls, I will!” With a flourish she walked out the door.

Stephen gave Alvin a withering stare, “Is she always that hot-headed?” He asked chasing after Kei before Alvin could answer.

“Go Poké Ball!” Kei shouted as she prepared to throw one of the Cherish Balls. Stephen grabbed her arm at the last minute, stopping the ball from being thrown. He hastily took it from her.

“Kei, I know you’re excited to know what Pokémon are in these balls.” Stephen condescendingly told Kei. “But anything could be inside of them and whatever it is could be very aggressive.” Stephen took the remaining three balls off Kei. Turning to his left he asked Jessica. “Are you ready to restrain what comes out of here?”

“As I’ll ever be.” Jessica gave a thumbs-up, readying herself for a possible attack.

“Cherish Ball go!” Stephen called out, tossing the ball forward. There was a flash of light and the ball opened, releasing the Pokémon inside. Once the flash had died down, there was a collective gasp from the group of five as they saw the Pokémon before them.

 

[Legacy]

One suggestion: "Quote," he said. is how it should be (with a comma separating the quote from the 'he/she said' part. In the first sentence, you say: "... feel like it’s a beautiful day.” The young boy sang out...

It should be: "... feel like it's a beautiful day," the young boy sang out...


Other than minor issues like that, the chapter was awesome to read! Your character development as well as just the natural flow of the words you use makes it enjoyable to read through.

Great return!

 

[TPJerematic]

Spoiler

One suggestion: "Quote," he said. is how it should be (with a comma separating the quote from the 'he/she said' part. In the first sentence, you say: "... feel like it’s a beautiful day.” The young boy sang out...

It should be: "... feel like it's a beautiful day," the young boy sang out...

I don't get that. That is the end of the sentence so why would i finish with a Comma? I spent a lot of time changing all the textextext," to having a period at the end.

Other than minor issues like that, the chapter was awesome to read! Your character development as well as just the natural flow of the words you use makes it enjoyable to read through.

Great return!

But Thanks, I've been trying to patch up plot holes i found in the early chapters ... it is adding length to the chapters. Chapter 1 is nearly twice as long as it was before.

 

[Legacy]

You need a comma after the quote instead of the period because "the boy sang out" is describing the quote. You would only end a quotation in a period if A) he have no description after the quote, or (B) the sentence following the quote is not related to it at all. For example:

Correct:

"I like pokemon," the boy said.
"I like pokemon."
"I like pokemon." The boy smiled wide after he spoke.

Incorrect:

"I like pokemon." the boy said.
"I like pokemon." The boy said.
"I like pokemon," the boy looked over at his friend.


Hope that helps, it's really not a huge issue because the story itself is awesome! I especially love Stephen! Anyways, keep this up. Again, I'm stoked that this story is back.

 

[TPJerematic]

I see, I just doesn't feel right to ead the sentence with a comma.

But like you said it's not a major issue with the fic if the rest fo the writing is good.

 

[Raine Caulwell]

However the Gym Leader and Gardevoir acted as if nothing was even happening, and with their experience, this was a mild earthquake. The Gardevoir walked up to the tinted window, placing a slender, pale white hand on his shoulder.

Their hands are green, fool. Also, going to be more of an ass about more natural garde. And here I was hoping for less anthro. This doesn't go for just your gardevoir. Every physical anthroed trait I count on any pokémon, I'm going to take a point off. Putting clothing on them doesn't bother me as much. After all, Golden Retrievers are really cute in football jerseys.

As the Onix collided with the Yanmega, knocking the Ogre Darner Pokémon across the battlefield, a Gardevoir walked through the door, closing it as quickly as she had opened it. The Embrace Pokémon walked over to the Gym Leader; however she was no normal Pokémon. Her body, usually covered with her species natural gown, was instead covered by a dark blue, long sleeved t-shirt, with a hole in the middle allowing her horn like sensor to jut out, all the while exposing her midriff and tight fitting denim jeans that hugged her slender form.

You could have made Jessica's entrance a little less obvious. Don't point out what is going on right away. Like, have the door open and close behind him, and he doesn't get up to look at who came in, arms resting on the back of his chair as she leans over; then start describing her. Or, if you don't want to go that route, you could always have her reflection visible in the glass of the observation deck. Things like that add a little atmosphere that can improve your work.

“I have no idea Stephen, but to be honest, I don’t care; I just want a good battle.”

Insane difficulty curve, much?

“Wait ... what?” The challenger’s frown deepened as he queried the rule. “Normally the Gym Leaders are not allowed to change Pokémon during battle, why can you?”

Insert Jessica handing him a 2,000円 note, grumbling. :3c

Some reviewers would rag on you for having such a short battle. However, they are kind of your weakness in writing, along with many other writers. You didn't draw it out much, but you didn't make it seem like people were just screaming attack names, and there was a little action. Things have improved here, a bit.

I'll read and review Chapter 1 some time later.

 

[Gama]

NNNNNOOOOOOOO YOU BASTARD!!!!!


WHY WOULD YOU STOP IT THERE!?!?


Good golly gosh, I simply must see what comes next!

 

[TPJerematic]

Their hands are green, fool. Also, going to be more of an ass about more natural garde. And here I was hoping for less anthro. This doesn't go for just your gardevoir. Every physical anthroed trait I count on any pokémon, I'm going to take a point off. Putting clothing on them doesn't bother me as much. After all, Golden Retrievers are really cute in football jerseys.

... I forsee points being lost ...

I jest.

You could have made Jessica's entrance a little less obvious. Don't point out what is going on right away. Like, have the door open and close behind him, and he doesn't get up to look at who came in, arms resting on the back of his chair as she leans over; then start describing her. Or, if you don't want to go that route, you could always have her reflection visible in the glass of the observation deck. Things like that add a little atmosphere that can improve your work.

I'll read and review Chapter 1 some time later.

Sure thing, i'll keep that in mind. and please review ch1 soon

NNNNNOOOOOOOO YOU BASTARD!!!!!


WHY WOULD YOU STOP IT THERE!?!?


Good golly gosh, I simply must see what comes next!

Because I'm a bastard?




I like to end chapters with cliffhangers.

 

[TPJerematic]

Chapter 2: New Friends​

“Oh my ...” Stephen struggled for words as he looked at the Pokémon gracefully floating in front of the five. “That is ... a Latias?!” He could barely hide the excitement in his voice. The Latias cocked her head to the side as she scanned the human who was holding her Cherish Ball, for a moment Stephen felt his head spin as the Eon Pokémon used her psychic ability to try and read his mind.

The Latias gave a joyous cry and flew at Stephen, knocking him to the floor. Jessica began to giggle when she saw that the Latias was licking her friend's face, while joyfully cooing.

“Awwwww, she likes you!” Jessica smiled as she looked down at Stephen as he tried to calm the Latias down, his attempts failing as the Latias continued to nuzzle and lick him.

“So that’s a Latias then?!” Alvin excitedly opened his Pokédex, pointing it at the Latias, who had stopped her incessant licking and was now just hugging Stephen tightly while rubbing her cheek against his.

“Latias, the Eon Pokémon,” The Pokédex said in its electronic, feminine voice. “Latias are highly intelligent and sensitive to the emotions of people. Latias can telepathically communicate with people. Its body is covered with a down that can refract light so that it appears invisible.” As soon as the Pokédex as finished speaking, Alvin started clicking through the few pages of information it had on Latias.

“Something isn’t right,” Jessica commented, stretching her arms to roughly the size of the Latias, who was now sitting on Stephen stomach cooing as he stroked behind her ears. “From what I can remember, Latias are supposed to be a metre and a half long but ... I’d take a guess that she’s half of that.”


“She must be young then.” Stephen sat up, while carefully pushing Latias onto his legs. “Are you a young little cutie?” Stephen baby-talked to the Latias while petting her head, Latias responded by softly whimpering and attempting to nuzzle his hand. “Yes you are, oh yes you are.” Stephen rubbed his head against Latias, much to the Pokémon’s joy as she gave Stephen another big lick across his cheek.

“Ca ... Can I pet her?” Sam spoke up, his voice quiet as he slowly approached the Latias, who had perked up and was looking at him.

“Sure, if she doesn’t mind.” Stephen looked down at Latias, her eyes were softly glowing as she attempted to read Sam’s mind. “Just think nice thoughts.” Sam carefully approached, his hand outstretched. As he got close Latias gave his hand a sniff before rubbing her nose against it while murmuring softly.

“Do you want another one opened?” Kei eagerly asked, while grabbing one of the other Cherish Balls.

“Sure, just give me a moment. I don’t want all of these Pokémon out at once,” Stephen replied as Latias rolled off him, nuzzling against his body as she lay on the grass. “Sorry girl but you have to go back into the ball for now.” Latias whimpered as he grabbed her Cherish Ball. She tried to nose it out of his hand, only to press the centre button and return herself.

“Cherish Ball GO!” Kei shouted while throwing the ball forward, it split with a burst of light that quickly disappeared to reveal a dark form, with a red rim at the top and what looked like a plume of white billowing hair. The figure began to uncurl itself, his head lifting out of the red collar-like neck revealing one bright blue eye while the other was hidden by the white hair.

“Darkrai, the Pitch-Black Pokémon.” Alvin’s Pokédex burst into life. “Darkrai has the ability to make sleeping people and Pokémon see vivid nightmares to protect itself. It means no harm, only using the ability when threatened. Darkrai are most active during nights with a full moon.”

For a moment everyone remained still, Jessica’s body tensed, a natural reaction due to her weakness to Dark type Pokémon. Stephen sat in stunned silence, staring at the Darkrai’s hauntingly elegant form. Alvin looked down at his Pokédex in disbelief groaning as Kei grabbed his waist, hiding behind her brother. Sam stared in wonder at the sight of the legendary Pokémon.

“So you’re a Darkrai,” Stephen spoke calmly as he got onto his knees, as not to intimidate Darkrai. The Pitch Black Pokémon extended his stilt like legs and kneeled on the ground mimicking Stephen’s actions.

“Another young Pokémon,” Jessica’s voice rang in Stephen’s head as she telepathically spoke to him. “He’s scared.”

“So what do you suggest I do?” Stephen asked, looking over at Jessica; Darkrai mimicked his action, looking over at the Gardevoir.

For a moment Jessica and Darkrai made eye contact, she saw a look of confusion. Darkrai was struggling to understand what he was looking at, he could tell Jessica was a Pokémon and a Gardevoir at that; but she didn’t look like a Gardevoir should.

“Embrace him.” Jessica smiled at Darkrai. “Smile and hug him, it will make him feel safe.” Stephen nodded and he too smiled at Darkrai. It was all the incentive Darkrai needed; he lunged at Stephen quickly pushing him to the floor while tightly embracing him.

Stephen stroked the back of Darkrai’s head, while Jessica held his hand. The two Pokémon once again made eye contact. Jessica focused on Darkrai’s mind but was unable to dive into his thoughts.

Darkrai pulled away from Stephen and picked up the Cherish Ball, handing it to Jessica before nodding. She took and ball and pointed it at Darkrai, the beam of red light quickly dissolving Darkrai back into his ball.

Jessica gave the ball to Stephen, holding her hands in his for a moment. She looked across at Sam who picked up another one of the Cherish Balls.

“Sam if you want to release that one...” Jessica motioned with her head as Sam picked up the Cherish Ball

“Okay!” Sam threw the Cherish Ball forward. It popped open with a flash of light, revealing a graceful blue creature. Its purple mane billowing out behind it, while the streamer-like white tails rippled alongside the diamond marked body.

“It can’t be ...” Sam stared in wonder at the Pokémon. “It’s a Suicune!” Sam spluttered slightly as the group looked on. “But Suicune are unique to Johto.” Sam thought for a second as he recalled the mythology he had learnt. “Ho-oh resurrected it from the remains of the Brass Tower in Ecruteak City. There’s only supposed to be one.”

“I’ve heard of that.” Alvin pointed the Pokédex at Suicune, who was nervously looking at the group. “However there is a mythology within Actopon. The lakes of Actopon’s Fairmoss Forest were guarded by a family of Suicune. It was long thought of as just a story made up by the discoverers of Actopon, many of which came from Johto, to explain the immense purity of the water. However several years ago a Suicune was sighted near Yellowcake Town, so maybe this Suicune came from that family.”

“Suicune, the Aurora Pokémon,” The Pokédex started talking just as Alvin finished “Suicune is said to be the incarnation of the north wind. It races around the world to purify filthy, murky water.” As the Pokédex finished talking Suicune walked over to Sam, nosing his hand before lying on the ground.

“I never thought that story had any merit.” Stephen looked on, his eyes wide. “I was of the same thought as Sam and that the Suicune that was seen at the Lesser Yellowcake Lake was the one from Johto.” He looked over to see Sam and Kei stroking Suicune, the young Pokémon purring softly to every touch.

“Sam, Kei, it is best if these Pokémon received the least amount of human contact as possible at the moment,” Jessica called over. Sam nodded and pointed the Cherish Ball at the resting Suicune, the red beam of energy pulling Suicune back into its confines.

“So there’s only one left.” Alvin reached down grabbing the last Cherish Ball. “If you don’t mind I would like to release this one.” After a quick fumble while trying to hold his Pokédex and throw the Cherish Ball, it hit the ground with a bump, popping open with a flash of light.

The light faded to reveal a skinny creature, its head accentuated by a fin-like protrusion, in the centre of its dark gray chest there was a large glowing yellow crystal. One of its tentacle arms was blue whilst the other was red.

“Now...” Jessica stared at the Pokémon, her mouth ajar. “This makes everything interesting.”

“Deoxys, the DNA Pokémon,” The Pokédex’s voice seemed to become excited. “It is currently in Speed Form. Deoxys emerged from a virus that fell to earth in a meteor. In this form, its body is configured for superior agility and speed; however it can change into three other forms in the right conditions.”

Deoxys calmly sat on the grass, staring up at the group with his arms resting between his legs. For a while Deoxys just looked around, apparently enjoying the view and fresh air. Jessica sat opposite of Deoxys, catching his attention, the two psychic Pokémon gazed into each other’s eyes.

“Poor thing...” Jessica whispered as she continued to psychically talk to Deoxys. “You’re safe now.”

“Jessica?” Stephen carefully leaned over, as he did so both Jessica and Deoxys shuddered and broke their gaze.

“He was scared, his only encounter with humans before was when he was caught.” Jessica stroked the Deoxys shoulder, the DNA Pokémon rubbing his blue arm against Jessica’s green hand. “But he can’t remember anything about it.” Deoxys nervously moved away from the group. “I think it’s best if he stays in the ball for now.” Alvin nodded and returned Deoxys to its Cherish Ball.

“Do you remember which Pokémon went into what ball Jess?” Stephen asked as he stood up, Jessica nodded her reply. “Good, I think it would be best if we marked the balls.” He helped Kei and Sam to their feet. “We need to call up what’s-his-name from the league.” Stephen turned back towards the house. “He will definitely want to hear about this.”

“Who?” Jessica shook her head as she followed carrying the Cherish Balls.

“Michael ... Something ... He must be a part of the Pokémon Rescue Agency,” Stephen replied as he entered the house.

“Oh ok.” Jessica followed in, with Alvin, Kei and Sam close behind. “Give me a moment I’m just going to put some stickers onto the Balls to help us identify them.” Stephen flicked his hand into the air as he turned into the living room.


***


After she had finished labelling the four Cherish Balls with the names and National Pokédex Listing of the Pokémon contained within, Jessica entered the living room. She gave a slight shake of her head as Stephen fiddled with some cabling behind their large television. Jessica walked over to the large couch where Sam and Kei were sitting, carefully resting herself down next to Kei, the young trainer looking up at her and smiling.

“Sonofa... get in!” Stephen mumbled as he tried to plug another cable into the TV. “Stupid demand for a video call ... SUCCESS!” Stephen cheered as the cable slotted in, the black screen of the TV flickered before displaying the menu of the video phone Stephen had been trying to connect.

“Now put the camera on top of the screen.” Alvin read off the next instruction from the manual. Stephen nodded and carefully balanced the camera on top of the screen. “Right all set.” Alvin threw the manual onto the floor next to the main body of the phone and took a seat next to Jessica on the couch.

Stephen quickly punched in the phone number written on the letter and stepped away from the TV, standing behind the couch. For a couple of seconds the phone rang, an empty box appearing on the screen as the phone dialled. Moments later the box was filled with the image of a man in his mid-thirties sitting in what looks like a busy office.

“He... Hello?” The man’s voice filled the room as the image on the screen jittered slightly. “This is Michael Young of the Actopon Pokémon League Shelter and Rescue Service. Can you hear me?”

“Hello Mister Young,” Stephen spoke out. “We can hear you loud and clear.”

“Wait ... eugh ... that’s it.” Michael fiddled with various knobs and buttons before turning to face the camera. “Right I can hear you to. Hello Mister Warren, I’m very glad you’ve called.”

“Did I really have a choice?” Stephen frowned as he saw a small screen in the corner of the TV showing the image from his own camera. Man I look awful, He thought before looking back up at the main picture.

“I guess not.” Michael gave a humourless laugh. “I am assuming you have news about the Cherish Balls you received.”

“Yes, yes I do.” Stephen rubbed his forehead. “But you’re not going to believe it.”

“Try me.”

Stephen took a deep breath. “All four Cherish Balls contained legendary Pokémon.” Michael’s eyes widened in shock. “On top of that all four Pokémon are about half of their normal size. This leads me to think that all four are young.”

“NO WAY, that’s impossible!” Mike shouted at the screen. “What Pokémon were in the balls?”

“Latias, Suicune, Darkrai and Deoxys.”

“I’m sorry if I sound sceptical ... but I am.” Michael typed something on his computer before turning back to face the camera. “Could you please show me them?”

“Sure.” Stephen looked over at Jessica; she nodded, throwing the four Cherish Balls forward. The room quickly filled up as the four Pokémon emerged from their balls.

“No way ...” Michael shook his head as he focused on the four Pokémon. “This is more serious than we thought.”

“It’s also way over your pay grade,” Stephen muttered to himself, earning a smirk from Alvin.

“What was that?”

“I need to talk to the League Administrator and Jordan.” Stephen began returning the Pokémon. “Can you send them a message about the Pokémon?”

“Sure I’ll get right on to it.” Michael turned away from the screen and began typing. “I know that the League Admin is here somewhere but as for Jordan ... I don’t know.”

“No problem, tell the Admin to phone my mobile,” Stephen replied. “Bye Michael.” He pressed a button on the phone and ended the call.

“It’s only two o’clock,” Jessica moaned softly as she stood up. “Seeing as we’re going to be waiting for the Admin to call ... we might as well head back to the gym.”

Stephen sighed as he looked up at the clock. “Sure.” He grabbed his Poké Balls and the four Cherish Balls. “Let me just put these four somewhere safe.” As he turned to leave he looked over his shoulder. “Then we can head over to the gym.” Alvin, Sam and Kei nodded and grabbed their bags.

“Hey Mister Warren?” Sam voice was a little quiet as he spoke.

“Call me Stephen.” He rolled his eyes, with a subtle shake of his head. “I hate being called Mister Warren.”

“Okay ... Stephen. I would like to challenge the Möbius Gym Leaders to a battle.”

“Sure, but it won’t be an official battle,” Stephen replied. “Like I said you are not yet strong enough nor do you have enough Pokémon on you.” He thought for a second before clicking his fingers and pointing at Kei. “How about you and Kei can battle together against me and Jess?” Kei’s face lit up with excitement, Sam nodded in agreement. “Once we’re ready we’ll head on over to the gym and we can have our battle, because I would like to see the skills you have used to get eighteen badges.

“You mean two,” Kei said with a confused look, grabbing Sam’s badge case opening it. “See.”

“I competed in the Kanto and Johto Leagues, Kei.” Sam snatched back his badge case. “So I have the sixteen badges from those gyms.”

“He was a point.” Alvin ruffled his sister’s hair; Kei glared up at her brother.

“I’ll be back in a second ...” As soon as Stephen had finished speaking his mobile phone began to ring a recognisable tune, one that invoked an odd sense of fear. “Sigh, that was quicker than I expected ... Why don’t you three go off ahead, I’ll take this with Jessica.” Stephen and Jessica ran off upstairs as Alvin, Kei and Sam left the house.


***


As soon as the front door was closed Stephen answered his phone. “Hello?”

“Hello, Stephen its Candace Freeman,” The voice on the other side of the phone was warm yet authoritarian.

“Admin you are a lot faster than I expected.” Stephen rolled his eyes causing Jessica to stifle a giggle. “The last time I needed to talk to you I had to constantly call your office for a week.”

“That was because you wanted more money,” A chuckle could be heard over the line. “This is far more important.” Stephen opened the door to the bedroom and sat on one on the beds with Jessica sitting next to him. He put the phone onto speaker and set it down on the bedside table. “Are you alone or is Jessica there ... silly question really.”

“Yeah I’m here.” Jessica gave a slight laugh.

“Anyway, this is something very serious.” Tapping could be heard over the phone. “Four legendary Pokémon being anonymously donated to you. I don’t understand it but ... well you had them in your living room.”

“I don’t get it either.” Stephen shook his head. “Why send them to me? Why not Jordan?” He threw his arms to the air.

“It would make more sense to give them to the Champion but ...” Candace hummed for a moment as she thought. “Maybe Jessica being co-Gym Leader had something to do with it?” She gave a long sigh. “Anyway, I have an idea.”

“What sort of idea?” Stephen nervously responded, leaning toward the phone.

“It is obvious that we need to learn more about these Pokémon. However I do not think that just sending them to a laboratory would help.” Stephen and Jessica both raised their eyebrows. “These Pokémon were obviously sent to the both of you for a reason. So I think it would be best if you two helped in the study of them. The Pokémon contained in those Cherish Balls were more than likely found and caught in the Actopon Region.” Candace hesitated for a second as she thought her plan thoughts. “As a result, I would like the both of you travel around the region and try to find the places they were caught and release them there; so that they can go back to their original environments.”

Stephen and Jessica were taken aback by the offer. “Admin I don’t mean to be offensive or anything but ... You are aware we are both Gym Leaders? We cannot just up sticks and leave during the Gym Season for what could be months.” He looked across at Jessica with the same look on his face that he had earlier on when he first received the Cherish Balls.

“I know that,” Candace growled slightly. “That’s what I was about to address.”

“Sorry.” Stephen shook his head as he apologised.

“There is the special rule you usually enact towards the end of the Gym Season.”

“Oh, you mean ‘only Trainers with the other 7 badges can challenge’ rule?” Jessica replied. “Makes sense ... I don’t know why we can’t get that rule to be in effect for the entire season.”

“It pisses off Maria, Larry, Emma, Heather, David and James that we can use it anyway?” Stephen jokingly replied.

“What about Cypher?” Candace added over the phone.

“He uses a similar rule but to no complaint, thanks to the fact his island is fucking miles from the rest of Actopon,” Stephen shook his head. “Anyway, I guess it couldn’t hurt to use that rule, it should even make the league event a little better because everyone would have had time to train before challenging us.”

“But how are we going to explain the gym closing?” Jessica closed her eyes as she thought.

“Don’t worry about that, I’ll come up with something,” Candace sighed softly. “Do you have any other trainers preparing to challenge you soon?”

“No, none of the trainers in the city have come to the gym in the last couple of days to organize a challenge,” Stephen replied, bringing a finger up to Jessica’s lips before she interrupted.

“Good, I was hoping you could get on with this task ASAP.”

“No problem.” Stephen clicked his fingers. “I’ve just had an idea. We ran into Alvin O’Brien ... You remember, Professor Aspen’s prodigy.”

“Oh yes? What about him?” Candace inquired.

“Well he is currently on a task that involves exploring Pokémon habitat and the like,” Jessica explained. “He’s probably the best person in Actopon to help us in the task you want us to do. It’s pretty fortunate we ran into him really.”

“Indeed,” Candace thought for a moment. “Luck seems to have favoured you today.”

“Only if you agree to give me more money,” Stephen snidely whispered.

“I heard that,” Candace chuckled. “We’ll look into it; is there anything else?”

“Not that we can think of,” Stephen replied. “I don’t quite know how the trainers at the gym will respond to it but I’ll sort it out.”

“Good, well goodbye and good luck Stephen and Jessica.” The sound of a chair creaking came over the phone.

“Bye and thanks. Have a good day.”

“You too, bye.” The line went dead as the call ended.

“AWESOME!” Stephen punched the air. “We get to go on an adventure.”

“Alright calm down. We can sort all of that out later. As for right now, I’m going to get changed.” Jessica stood up and pushed Stephen off the bed; he hit the floor with a thud. “You can go outside and get the bicycles ready.”

“Was the push really necessary?” Stephen rubbed his lower back as he stood up. “I’m going to get you back for that later.” He walked out of the bedroom, Jessica closing the door behind him. “Don’t take too long.”

“Shut up,” Came the playful reply from behind the door.


***


Half an hour later, Alvin, Sam and Kei where sitting at a table outside of the Möbius Cafe. Sam and Kei watched a battle taking place on one of the battlefields in the park while Alvin busied himself with his Pokédex, studying the information that was available about the legendary Pokémon while waiting for Stephen and Jessica.

However they didn’t have much longer to wait; Thirty seconds later they heard a bell ringing as Jessica flew past them on a bicycle wearing, much to their surprise, safety gear and, moreover, clothes.

“WEEEEEEEEEE!” Jessica shouted out as she hammered past the group, turning at speed she skidded around and headed back towards the group who were moving on their chairs ready to take evasive action if necessary. Jessica hit the brakes, causing the rear tyre to screech and leave a long black trail of rubber on the pavement. “HI GUYS!” She shouted getting off the bike; Jessica gave a smile and Sam, Kei and Alvin stared at her clothing, a simple yellow t-shirt with a gap for her sensor to poke through and a pair of brilliant white trousers with a red Seviper pattern running up the outside of each leg. Jessica looked back the way she came and saw Stephen steadily making his way towards the cafe; after a minute Stephen caught up. “Oh nice of you to join us.”


“Blah, blah, blah,” Stephen rolled his eyes as he got off the bicycle. “I just didn’t want to wear myself out.” He took off his helmet putting it on the seat of his bicycle. “Are you two ready?” He beckoned to Sam and Kei who nodded in reply standing up grabbing their bags.

“Sure are!” Kei excitedly said, “This will be my first battle against a Gym Leader.” She headed towards the gym walking in the doors.

“Excited much?” Jessica laughed heading in after Kei, while Stephen secured their bicycles against the gym wall.

“Come on then, this will be the last time I battle in here for a good while.” Stephen led Sam and Alvin into the Möbius gym. “Please make it a good finale.”

“Can I just ask something?” Sam enquired as he entered the gym. “Why is Jessica wearing clothes?”

“Sam, you can’t just ask things like that!” Alvin retorted.

“It’s ok!” Jessica cheerfully said from next to the door behind Alvin and Sam causing them to jump, much to Kei’s joy. “I wear clothes ‘cause, they make me appear and feel like a normal trainer, and they make me look cool.”

“Anyway.” Stephen walked across the battlefield, towards the Gym Leader’s box, with Jessica close behind. “Let’s get this started.” Stephen leaned towards Jessica’s head “What’s the bet that they don’t understand the gym rules,” He whispered to Jessica as they got to the end of the field.

“I’ve already told Kei.” Jessica stuck her tongue out at Stephen. “So you’re not getting any more money out of me.” Stephen looked across the field to see Kei explaining the rules to Sam. As this was happening Zach walked out of the back room with a frown.

“Hey I thought you weren’t battling again today,” Zach whined slightly as he looked over at Sam and Kei. “Two challengers?”

“Yeah we’re having a practice battle,” Stephen explained. “I need to have a word with you and the others after this.”

“That’s never a good thing,” Zach shook his head. “You need me to referee this battle?”

“Please!” Jessica smiled and winked at Zach, he rolled his eyes and continued to shake his head as he walked over to the referee’s podium.

“So, are you ready?” Stephen called out across the battlefield to Sam and Kei who were still talking.

“We sure are,” Sam called back as he and Kei each took a Poké Ball off their belts, clicking the button to activate them.

“Both Challengers and Gym Leaders release your Pokémon on to the battle field and prepare for battle,” Zach called out holding up a red and green flag, red for the Gym Leaders and green for Sam and Kei.

“Go Pikachu,” Sam commanded as he threw the Poké Ball he was holding out onto the field.

“Torkoal on the field,” Kei called out tossing her Poké Ball forward.

“Nice, good Pokémon,” Stephen commented, “Go Arkbird.” Stephen tossed his Cherish Ball into the air.

“And go Abigail,” Jessica called as she threw a Poké Ball onto the field.

“Battle begins,” Zach called out pulling both flags down.

“Pikachu use Volt Tackle on the Togekiss!” Sam shouted with a slight smug look on his face.

“Torkoal use Stealth Rock,” Kei called out.

“Damn! Arkbird use Air Slash on the Torkoal.” Stephen said with a slight panic in his voice.

“Abigail use Stone Edge on Torkoal ... oh.” Jessica realised her mistake too late.

Sam’s Pikachu charged at Arkbird glowing with yellow electric charge “Pika, Pika, Pika, Pika, Pika, Pika, PIKAAAACHU!” Pikachu yelled as it slammed into Arkbird, sending the Jubilee Pokémon crashing against the ceiling with a slight cringe as the Pikachu suffered from being flung back at the ground. Arkbird however pushed off of the wall and flew towards Kei’s Torkoal building up energy in his wings. Suddenly, Arkbird stopped forcing the energy stored up forward with a strong flap of his wings sending a slice of air forward while recoiling backwards, returning to float in front of Stephen. The slice cut across Torkoal who cried out while shivering and closing its eyes. Kei’s Torkoal showed signs of fatigue while staring down Abigail who was now towering over him as her scythe glowed and the ground trembled; a flurry of razor sharp stones battered Torkoal, leaving the Coal Pokémon dizzy and exhausted, collapsing to the ground with a plume of black smoke.

“The Challenger’s Torkoal is unable to battle,” Zach declared holding up the red flag.

“Torkoal return,” Torkoal was pulled back into the ball. “You’re up Sudowoodo!” Kei threw her next Poké Ball onto the field, popping open with a flash of light to reveal Kei’s Sudowoodo, the Imitation Pokémon shaking his club like hands as if they were maracas.

“Well your doing better than I have experienced in the last few days,” Stephen said with a smile creeping across his face. “However you are down one Pokémon. Arkbird use Aura Sphere on that Sudowoodo.”

“Pikachu cover him with another Volt Tackle on Arkbird,” Sam ordered his Pokémon.

“Hmm, Abigail use Night Slash on the Pikachu.” Jessica took a little time to think her move though.

“Sudowoodo HAMMER ARM!!!” Kei shouted pointing at Abigail.

In an exact copy of the first move Sam’s Pikachu charged at Arkbird slamming it against the ceiling but this time the Togekiss didn’t fight back rather falling from the ceiling back down to the battlefield with a thump, kicking up a plume of dust.

While this was happening Abigail’s scythe glowed with a dark light watching Sam’s Pikachu suffer again from the recoil of using Volt Tackle before jumping into the air and flicking her head sending a black edge slicing towards the tired Pikachu knocking it to the floor before landing next to the fallen Arkbird.

Moments later Kei’s Sudowoodo charged at Abigail slamming her powerfully with his arm knocking her to the floor. “Come on Abigail hold on!” Jessica desperately called to the stricken Absol; however it was in vain as she collapsed.

“The Challenger’s Pikachu and the Gym Leader’s Togekiss and Absol are unable to battle.” Zach held up both the green and red flags.

“Pikachu return,” Sam called out holding his Poké Ball “Good work; have a nice rest.” Sam put Pikachu’s Poké Ball back on his belt taking the next one and tossing it onto the field. “Snorlax, you’re up next,” The giant Pokémon roared as it was released from its ball.

“Arkbird return,” Stephen held up Arkbird’s Cherish Ball. “Good job buddy! You rest up now.” Stephen threw a Luxury Ball out on to the field. “Forseti go!” The Luxury Ball opened releasing a Lucario, the Aura Pokémon growled at the Snorlax while clenching his fists.

“Abigail return,” Jessica held up the Poké Ball and Abigail came back. “Good work, you can rest now.” She pulled another Poké Ball from her belt throwing it onto the field “You’re up Sparky.” Jessica’s Rotom was released from the Poké Ball making the sound of electrical discharge as it floated around.

Stephen looked across at Jess. “Will-O-Wisp?” Jess nodded in reply.

“Sparky use WOW on that Snorlax,” Jessica commanded while pointing at the giant slovenly Pokémon who looked like it was about to fall asleep at any moment.

“Forseti use Close Combat on Sudowoodo,” Stephen clenched his fists and glared across the battlefield.


Both the Gym Leaders Pokémon leapt forward within milliseconds of each other not even giving Sam and Kei a chance to give their commands. Sparky glowed a ghostly fiery blue, shooting off five flaming blue orbs at the Snorlax, the lumbering Pokémon had barely moved from its release position. The orbs vapourized as they hit the Snorlax causing burns to appear on its body. As this was happening Forseti had landed directly in front of Sudowoodo and with a sly smile pounded it with a series of powerful punches knocking it to the floor.

“SUDOWOODO!” Kei called out with a choke in her voice holding up its Poké Ball. “Return.”

“Snorlax use Curse,” Sam commanded with a panicky tone desperate to do something. The giant Pokémon glowed with a ghostly purple light. “SNORLAAAAAAAAX!” The giant Pokémon yelled, much to Jessica’s shock as she was now standing eyes wide open and mouth ajar. “...lax,” The Snorlax grimaced as it was hurt by the burn.

“The Challenger’s Sudowoodo is unable to battle,” Zach declared holding up the red flag.

“Jess ... Are you ok?” Stephen looked across at Jessica who was still in a state of shock.

“Sorry.” Jessica regained her composure. “Yeah, let’s go.”

“Eevee on the field.” Kei was unenthusiastic as she tossed her last Poké Ball onto the field. “Good luck with that.”

“Don’t be so down Kei, we can still win.” Sam stared down the Gym Leaders two Pokémon “Snorlax Body Slam on that smug Lucario, his defences should be lower after that Close Combat.”

“Eevee, do something.” Kei struggled to think of a move. “Err, Tackle Rotom?”

“Sparky don’t let it even move,” Jessica giggled quietly to herself at Kei’s bad decision. “Use Thunderbolt and finish it.”

“Forseti use Close Combat on Snorlax.” Stephen was desperately hoping for the battle to continue.

Once again Forseti and Sparky moved off within milliseconds of each other, Sparky firing off a stream of electricity at the hapless Eevee sending it flying backwards into Kei, knocking them both to the floor. Forseti set upon Snorlax pounding it with a series of rapid and powerful punches, however this didn’t seem to faze Snorlax who simply stood up and fell on top of Forseti. It took more than a minute for Snorlax to stand back up again.

Forseti regained his composure and very slowly moved away clearly in significant pain. The Snorlax once again grimaced as it was hurt by the burns on its body.

“The Challenger’s Eevee is unable to battle, Challenger Kei is out of the battle.” Zach held up the red flag once again.

“Sparky, Thunderbolt Snorlax,” Jessica calmly called out, her hand jutting out to the side.

“Forseti use Close Combat again.” Stephen said in unison with Jessica.

“Snorlax use Crunch on Rotom.” Sam was hoping that it tactic had worked; much to his relief it did.

Sparky moved off like it has before however it was not accompanied by Forseti, the Lucario unable to move. Sparky fired off a stream of electric charge at the Snorlax who once again barely noticed the attack; however he seemed to look a lot weaker. Snorlax responded by roaring out and charged out at Sparky with surprising abruptness and with teeth glowing with dark energy sunk them into the Rotom who recoiled back from the hit falling to the floor filling the room with the sound of crackling electricity.

“The Gym Leader’s Rotom is unable to battle!” Zach was starting to let the excitement of the battle get to him; it had been a while since a challenger had forced one of the leaders to their last Pokémon.

“Sparky return.” Jessica held up the Poké Ball and the Rotom disappeared back into the ball. “That was rough, have a good rest.” Jessica took the last Poké Ball from her belt. “I cannot remember the last time I was in this tight a spot.” She threw the Poké Ball onto the field. “Tinkerbelle you’re finally getting to battle.” The ball opened revealing a Chimecho, the Wind Chime Pokémon bobbing on invisible air currents.

“Snorlax, you ok?” Sam asked to which the Pokémon roared in return. “Good, use Crunch on that Chimecho.”

“Forseti, try to move.” Stephen was desperately calling out to his Pokémon, just short of running out and helping his off the battle field, however he knew that his Lucario was too headstrong and wouldn’t let him try. “Use Extreme Speed on Snorlax.”

“Don’t worry Forseti, Chimecho use Heal Bell.” Jessica called out to which the floating bell seemed to cheer.

Forseti tried to move first but once again was unable to, the Chimecho had by now floated up to the ceiling of the gym and tinkled the bell on it head sending out a pleasant soothing sound out over the battle field. However it was too late for Forseti who despite being cured of the paralysis had moved too early and was unable to do anything about it. As the Chimecho floated back down to the battle field Snorlax was standing in front of it and as with Rotom sunk its teeth into the opposing Pokémon. The Chimecho didn’t stand a chance and fell to the floor.

“The Gym Leader’s Chimecho is unable to battle! Gym Leader Jessica is out of the battle!” Zach was barely able to contain his excitement. He held up the green flag as Jessica returned the Chimecho to its Poké Ball.

“You did your best; hopefully Forseti can end that Snorlax now.” Jessica looked across at Stephen, “It’s all up to you now.” Jessica slipped her arm around Stephen’s shoulders. “Good luck.”

“Forseti another Close Combat, if you please.” Stephen made a sweeping gesture with his arm in an almost bowing movement as Forseti once again pounded away with its fists finally knocking the Snorlax out, with Forseti not far behind as he collapsed with exhaustion.

“The Challenger’s Snorlax is unable to battle and the Gym Leaders Lucario is unfit to battle,” Zach held up both flags as the two Pokémon were withdrawn to their Poké Balls.

“Great work as always Snorlax.” Sam changed to his final Poké Ball. “It’s all up to you, let’s win this.” Sam fumbled the Poké Ball onto the field in his excitement. Opening up it revealed a Drifloon who just floated in front of Sam, its face emotionless.

“I can’t remember the last time I had such an exciting battle and days since I have been taken down to my final Pokémon.” Stephen put the Luxury Ball back on his belt taking the premier ball next to it and throwing it into the air gracefully. “Lisa, come on out.” The Premier Ball opened while flying up releasing a Milotic who ‘flew’ around the battle field and its opponent Drifloon who was still floating there simply ignoring the serpentine Pokémon.

By this time both Kei and Jessica had left the battlefield and were sitting on the side lines watching intently, with Alvin, who wasn’t. He was using the Pokédex to collect information on the Gym Leaders Pokémon for later study.

“So what do you think will happen next?” Kei asked Jessica who looked at the two Pokémon on either side of the battlefield. She smiled in response.

“They’ll do the exact same thing,” Jessica leant back, put her hands behind her head and relaxed.

“Are you ready Sam?” Stephen called out to the young trainer who was now realising the dire situation he had found himself in. “I expect the same level of battling you have shown throughout this match. Don’t quit on me now!”


“Use Hypnosis!” Both Stephen and Sam shouted out the commands simultaneously with their Pokémon responding promptly. Milotic moved first with her eyes glowing with an eerie light sending out waves of psychic energy toward the balloon Pokémon. Drifloon simply floated up and out of the way before gliding towards the Milotic, staring her right in the face and with his eyes glowing with a similar light sent out waves of psychic energy at the Pokémon who fell to the floor fast asleep.

“Good shot,” Stephen dejectedly moaned as he looked at his Milotic slumped on the floor curled up.

“Darn straight!” Sam excitedly hopped from one foot to the other in anticipation, “Drifloon use Shadow Ball repeatedly on Milotic, we’re so close to winning.” The Drifloon responded firing a string of ghostly gloopy balls of ‘stuff’ which repeated slammed against the sleeping Milotic who was knocked around the battlefield sleeping all the time. After five hits Zach held up the green flag.

“Not yet,” Stephen beckoned to Zach to put the flag down. “She’s not finished yet.” Lisa woke up yawning, showing very few signs of the repeated battering she had received from the Shadow Balls; she looked around to gather her bearings then focused on small purple balloon. “Angel, have fun with Hydro Pump.” Stephen smiled and watched as the Milotic blasted away with a powerful jet of water instantly soaking Drifloon and knocking it to the floor.

Zach held up the red flag. “The Challenger’s Drifloon is unable to battle, Challenger Sam is out of the battle, the Gym Leader’s Stephen and Jessica win.” Zach put the flags back under the referee’s podium and walked over to Stephen who had returned Angel to her Premier Ball and was now standing shaking his head.

“I really thought he was going to beat me.” Stephen looked across to Zach who was walking over to him.

“Do you want these?” Zach held two Möbius badges in his hands which Stephen took reluctantly.

“I really thought they’d actually beat us.” He looked down at the badges which are shaped like a Möbius strip then across to the bench where Kei, Jessica and Alvin were sitting with Sam standing holding his Drifloon’s Poké Ball in his hands “I had better give these to them, Sam was very close to winning. They both deserve the badge.”

Stephen walked across to the group who were all talking with a quiet tone. Jessica looked up, for a brief moment the two Gym Leaders stared into each other’s eyes. Jessica gave a slight smile and nodded, agreeing with Stephen’s thoughts.

“Sam, Kei, I have something I would like to give you.” Stephen held the badges behind his back. “That was one of the best battles we have experienced over the last few weeks. So in recognition of your talent and skill as Pokémon trainers, even though you didn’t win the battle, I present you both with the Möbius badge.” Stephen handed out the two badges to Sam and Kei who both stood there with a dumbfounded look on their faces. “Before you say anything, I lied about the match not being badge claimable. I didn’t want you to panic and try too hard, just battle in your natural style.” Sam and Kei looked across to Jessica who nodded and smiled and Alvin who was clapping his hands.

“Yes, I won the Möbius badge!” Kei and Sam cheered while hi-fiving each other.

“Well done you two,” Alvin said while walking over to the group, “So what are your plans now?” He asked looking over at Jessica

“Well.” Jessica looked over at Stephen who was looking at the other badges Sam had while talking about the battles he had and the leaders of the gyms. “We have been given clearance, well almost a demand, from the League Administrator to go out around Actopon to try and find these legendaries natural habitats.” Sam and Kei instantly stopped talking and looked over at Jessica.

“Really?” Sam and Kei shouted in unison.

“No way!” Zach called out. “What legendaries?”

“Yes way,” Stephen continued. “And don’t worry I’ll explain in a minute.”

 

[Darrenn]

Finally back and looks like i got alot of reading to do thank god for no standard grade homework yet!

 

[Gama]

Just made the longest post ever ever and got timed out or something. Might kill self.

Great chapter.

Loved everything up to the Gym battle.

Gym battle was a little disappointing, the battle itself wasn't exactly enthralling, the Pokemon were dealt with a little too quickly and I didn't like how successful Sam and Kei were.

All in all a good chapter, if I ever stop being so depressed, I will try and recreate my previous comment.

 

[TPJerematic]

Just made the longest post ever ever and got timed out or something. Might kill self.

Great chapter.

Loved everything up to the Gym battle.

Gym battle was a little disappointing, the battle itself wasn't exactly enthralling, the Pokemon were dealt with a little too quickly and I didn't like how successful Sam and Kei were.

All in all a good chapter, if I ever stop being so depressed, I will try and recreate my previous comment.

Awwwwwww hell. I thought that gym battle no longer sucked