The Quest for the Legends (version ILCOE) Page 2

Started by Dragonfree October 1st, 2004 5:47 PM
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Lily

◕ ‿‿ ◕ double rainbow.

Female
New Joisey
Seen February 26th, 2017
Posted June 26th, 2011
3,329 posts
18.7 Years
Oh another nice chapter! XD Two chapters in a day w00t.

It was rather formal when Mark found out May was the one who abandoned Charmander. I was like, wtf why would she do that? o_O; What I'm wondering is what'll happen when she finds out that the Charmander was found by Mark and now evolved into a Charmelon. Hah, what a quaint moment. Oh, the personality change in Charmander isn't what you would call 'obvious' but it does feel different now. Honestly, I thought Charmeleon would rebuke Mark, but it seems they are in agreement now. XD

The technical machines were well set out. It went along perfectly, flamethrower for Charmeleon, return for Eevee, and earthquake for Sandshrew. However, isn't flamethrower a tad bit strong? Especially if they only went up to the first gym so far, plus the fact Charmeleon evolved already. x_X But return is an excellent move for Eevee, I'm eager to see how it will be used in battle.

Now the gym battle awaits! ^_^

( ‿‿ ) PM me for a contract.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
May is kinda like me - she does a lot of things she ends up regretting. ^^; She also tends to be very ambitious and kinda mean when that reaches its peak (you'll see more of that later, heh).

You'll also see more of how Charmeleon has changed later. Yeah, he does feel slightly different, but still similar; that's the effect I wanted. Glad I got that about right.

Flamethrower, as I think of it, is mainly a longer-range Ember that deals out more pain to an opponent but takes more energy to perform. Basically, when I work PPs into it too, it's longer preparation, more power, longer range and more energy-consuming. Overall, it's not *that* much better than Ember. But yeah, you're kinda right, with him having evolved and all. Be happy, though, that it's not like the original; there, Charmander evolved at the Lake of Purity. ^_^;;; Well, there I also put "Then he trained all his Pokmon to level 15." XD

Yep, the Gym battle awaits for tomorrow. With another interesting twist, I might add...
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
OK, an extra...




---EXTRA IV---

The Full Story

May watched intensely as Metapod went stiff and fell to the ground with a clunk. The Pokmons eyes closed heavily. The cocoon started rocking to the sides, and suddenly a large tear split through its shell. Blinding white light shone out of it. A crumpled, glowing shape squeezed itself through the rip. The bright light faded. On top of the green, lifeless shed was a small, dark blue creature. Slowly, it spread out the great, silky white wings that were folded around its body. A few flaps dried them; then the Pokmon took gracefully off into the air.

Free, sounded the Butterfrees cry.

May was pleased; finally after all this training with a braindead, immobile cocoon, it had evolved into something of worth. Not the most statistically powerful Pokmon out there Butterfree were very fragile, and it was more the exception than the rule if it survived a single blow but very adept at strategically disarming its opponent with poisonous powders.

Like flying, Butterfree? she asked fondly. This Pokmon would bring her many a victory. Her freshly caught Skarmory would, too. Unlike Cyndaquil. May had picked her first Pokmon only for being a very valuable female starter. But Cyndaquil was, and had always been, a very unattractive Pokmon to her. A hedgehog/anteater cross was the first thing that came to mind when she saw it for the first time. That long snout, squinted eyes, tiny legs

May had therefore, much to her own dismay, never been able to appreciate her starter, despite being female. Of course, Pokmon tended to pick up their trainers feelings towards them very quickly, and Cyndaquil had soon grown to despise her too. It was a no-win situation.

Hey! You there! Girl! called a voice. May turned around. It was a boy of around twelve or thirteen, a little older than her, wearing red shorts with a lot of pockets and a black T-shirt. Long, fiery red hair surrounded his face, falling a bit into his big, gray eyes.

What? she asked.

Could you battle me?

May shrugged. She held up Butterfrees Pokball lazily, recalling the butterfly Pokmon. One on one?

Go! the boy said, throwing forward an odd, black and red type of Pokball that May had never seen before. It opened to reveal some kind of a Pikachu.

Yet, the Pikachu didnt look right. The yellow, mouse-like body was familiar, just as the long ears but not the blue, shiny balls that tipped them. Its claws also looked greatly extended from what she would have labeled as a normal Pikachu, and also shiny blue. Its tail was not the lightning-bolt shape it was supposed to be, but rather a jagged, black thread, ending in a blue triangle.

Pika, it hissed in a deep-toned, menacing voice that could at the very most belong to a Pikachu with a very bad case of cold. Suddenly, bright blue waves of electricity started streaming between the balls on its ears.

May knew her types. Electric attacks would be very effective on both Butterfree and Skarmory. She couldnt risk that, even if that meant sending her starter out.

Cyndaquil, I choose you! The Pokball burst open, sending forward a beam of red energy that formed into Mays first Pokmon.

On Cyndaquils shiny black back, flames sprouted out as she resentfully cried out her name. She didnt like battling for May very much, but she still did. Probably she had some loyalty gene in there.

The boy smirked. Shock Charge!

May, despite having studied carefully up on Pokmon attacks, had no idea what Shock Charge was supposed to be, except that it obviously was an Electric attack.

The strange Pikachu got down on all fours with another menacing hiss and leapt towards Cyndaquil. She was caught in the middle of the electric current between its ears and froze with a pained scream of QUIIIIL! The Pikachu stood back up, grinning so that two vampire-like fangs glinted in its mouth. Cyndaquils flames died down in an instant as she fell down on her back, unable to move.

Darn it! May drove her foot into the grass, biting her lip. Shock Charge seemingly paralyzed the target.

Slam! said the boy.

The Pikachu nodded, wrapped its odd, thread-like tail around Cyndaquils immobile body, and slammed her between two rocks a few times, seemingly enjoying it.

Suddenly, it let out a cry of pain, releasing Cyndaquil as she started glowing bright white. The boy stared wide-eyed at what was happening, but May wasnt moved. She had expected it.

Cyndaquils shape changed, her head becoming more distinguished from her body and turning into more of a triangle shape as it grew ears. Her stubby legs lengthened into fully-fledged paws. Her overall outline became more elegant and less chubby, just as her whole shape went larger. Finally, the glow subsided, replaced with an evolved Pokmon.

Quilava! she announced as flames flared up on her head and backside, looking at May with newly-opened eyes. The girl found a certain feeling of trust for this Pokmon.

Quilava, Ember! she commanded, clenching her fist. Quilava spewed a blast of brightly-colored flames at the unsuspecting Pikachu, leaving it scorched on the ground.

May looked triumphantly at the boy. Without words, he recalled the Pikachu back into its Pokball. He seemed to be about to leave when he suddenly asked: Hey, I have a Charmander. Want to trade it for your Quilava?
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Lily

◕ ‿‿ ◕ double rainbow.

Female
New Joisey
Seen February 26th, 2017
Posted June 26th, 2011
3,329 posts
18.7 Years
First; extra was interesting, as in the whole story behind May trading the Quilava for the Charmander. And wow, she shouldn't have traded her Quilava for the Charmander, although the female part stil strikes me funny. XD...Only main problem was the end, when the battle was finishing. I thought myself it was a tad bit rushed, since well, the beginning seemed to be well described. But otherwise, it's an awesome extra.

Second, my first FF of the week. *does the dance* ^_^

( ‿‿ ) PM me for a contract.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
*comes back down from reading*

Ah, I'd better refresh and see if somebody replied. Huh? Where did it go? AHH! WHERE DID THE THREAD GO! - Oh... what's it doing there at the top...? HOLY! :o

That pretty much sums it all up. ^_^;;;;



Heh, I know why the end of the battle was rushed, and what's worse, it's a really stupid reason - when I write a chapter, I hate having just one paragraph or something on the final page, so I make a special effort fitting it on the previous page in such a situation. It's exactly two pages in Word like this, and only like one more sentence would fit. When I saw I was nearing the end of the page, I therefore tried to finish the battle as quickly as possible. x_X I know, I know, I shouldn't do that. I just do.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
-------
RATING

Violence: Pokmon battles in the more violent end, but not that violent, though.

Gore: None.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None that I remember.

Other: Well... involves cloning and hints of Pokmon abuse.
-------




Chapter 8: The Master of the Clones

Do you mind if we just have a one-on-one?

Mark pronounced this question nervously to the junior trainer wearing all the neon green. He was still clearly in a very bad mood, but nodded curtly.

Go, Arcanine.

A huge creature burst out of the Pokball. Its overall shape was rather dog-like, but the gleaming orange fur with jet-black stripes looked more like a tiger. It shook back its cream-colored mane, letting out an ear-splitting roar as it swished a bushy tail. Its huge black claws dug into the floor as it snarled towards Mark.

Uh is Arcanine a Legendary? Mark asked, confused.

It isnt, but it was considered one in ancient times, said the junior trainer simply. Lets just get this over with.

Mark hesitated, but then took out Gyaradoss ball. It was better to be safe than sorry.

Go! he yelled. The sea monster formed into the pool, letting out an even louder roar. Even the Arcanine appeared to flinch for a second, but then it started growling again.

Dragon Rage, Mark just said.

Gyarados threw his head forward, blasting out dark flames. The Arcanine leapt skillfully out of the way and countered by leaning down low for a second and then leaping at Gyarados at incredible, unavoidable speed. The sea serpent roared in pain, darting forward and grabbing Arcanines tail in his mouth. The giant canine froze for a second; then it swung around and fired a great jet of fire from its mouth into Gyaradoss face. He retaliated with another blast of dragon flames, which enveloped the Arcanine. The great dog howled in pain, turned to Gyarados again and attempted to release another cloud of flames, failing. Then with a final yelp, it lost its balance and its whole majestic shape dropped down to the floor, defeated.

Arcanine, return, said the trainer, the dog Pokmon dissolving into red energy and being sucked into the Pokball. Go on.

Mark nodded, walking across the arena to the nurse. She bowed slightly as she took his Pokballs and put them into the Pocket Healer, one by one. Mark thanked her and walked through the now open door to the purple-haired trainer.

You back? he asked enthusiastically. Great! Go, Raikou!

Mark grinned. Go, Sandshrew!

The armadillo Pokmon didnt curl up upon entering the battle this time. His eyes fixed on Raikou, he awaited the order he knew he would get

Earthquake!

The junior trainers eyes widened in surprise as Sandshrew rose to his hind legs. Slamming back into the ground, the small Pokmon made the floor ripple like liquid. The attack was unavoidable; Raikou jumped over one wave but landed just as the next one struck. As the floor rippled under the Legendarys paws, it shivered and released some electric sparks.

Sandshrew rose up for the second time, preparing to perform the attack again, but the junior trainer quickly countered:

Raikou, Crunch!

Immediately, the tiger leapt forward, grabbing Sandshrew in its mouth like the other time and starting to squeeze.

Scratch! Mark ordered desperately. The small Pokmon dug its claws into Raikous jaw, and the tiger released him with a painful roar. Sandshrew looked rather weak and battered as he stood on his hind legs again, preparing for a final Earthquake. Smashing his paws into the ground, the floor rippled and Raikou, with a weak Raiii, lost its balance and collapsed.

Shrew, said the armadillo wearily, yet with a tint of pride. He had worked hard enough for now; Mark recalled him.

Go, Entei! yelled the trainer, hurling forward the black and red ball. A reddish-brown, bulky, lion-like Pokmon burst out of the Pokball with a deep, loud roar. A star shape surrounded its face, yellow at the top, white at the bottom and red at the sides. A grayish-white cloak that reminded Mark of a cloud or smoke kept changing its form on the Pokmons back. It was Marks favorite out of the Legendary Beasts of Johto.

He observed Entei while he thought about which Pokmon to choose. Enteis eyes looked back at him, painfully robotically. Mark bit his lip; he was growing to despise that Rick person before even seeing him, just for doing that to Legendary Pokmon. Even if they were clones, it was wrong...

Go, Gyarados! he said, throwing the ball that held the sea monster. Gyarados formed with his usual opening roar. Entei started roaring back at him. For a few seconds the battle was a roaring contest between the two Pokmon; then Enteis trainer shouted: Sunny Day!

The lion lifted its head towards the dome roof and closed its eyes in deep concentration. The sun appeared to get clearer and hotter.

Dragon Rage! Mark commanded. The trainer gasped; Gyarados formed crimson flames deep in his throat and fired them at the lion. Entei leapt to the side, dodging the attack easily.

Entei, Flamethrower! roared the junior trainer. The Legendary inhaled deeply and sent a cloud of flames towards the sea monster. Gyarados quickly countered with another Dragon Rage. Mark knew dragon flames were stronger than normal flames, but seeing as Entei was a Fire Pokmon, he wasnt sure Gyarados would claim victory now.

He watched worriedly. The blasts still just met in the middle where the flames mixed and formed a huge orb of fire. The two Pokmon did their best to keep up the attack, and neither appeared to be stronger than the other.

But Gyarados was much higher-leveled than his opponent, and after a few seconds, Entei had to breathe. This gave Gyarados the chance to engulf the lion in dragon flames. Another deep roar like the one Entei had started the battle with sounded; when the fire cleared, Entei lay on the ground, defeated.

Return, said the junior trainer disappointedly. Go, Suicune!

Mark held his breath as the Legendary he had seen the night before at the Lake of Purity appeared out of the ball. The slender blue body was the exact same, as was the unique crystal on its head and the white, rippling ribbons. But the expression was not. Even though he had only seen Suicune at a distance, he was positive that the eyes hadnt been so robotically blank.

Gyaradoss eyes were however very filled with emotion. He stared at the Legendary with a mix of despise and anger.

Why? he growled. Suicune, of course, was a brainwashed clone and therefore showed no reactions except assuming a fighting stance. The purple-haired trainer stared at Gyarados, puzzled.

It it can talk? he asked, for the first time getting distracted from the battle. Gyarados paid no attention to this comment; he just closed his eyes hatefully in concentration.

What happened now was amazing. The dark blue of Gyarados armor faded into gray. When he had turned completely grayscale, he suddenly opened his eyes with an ear-splitting roar, and two narrow, bright red beams of energy shot from his eyeballs at Suicune. The Legendary staggered backwards, looking to be in serious pain, started to sweat uncontrollably and finally fell unconscious to the floor with a weak Cune

The junior trainers jaw dropped.

What the heck was that? he breathed in disbelief.

I I dont know, said Mark, just as stunned. Gyarados turned his back at the Legendary and Mark sensed he wasnt wishing to talk about reasons for anything.

Well looks like you won, said the trainer, staring at the fallen Beast. A pool of water was forming around the place where Suicune lay.

The trainer took out one of those keys and opened the door as Mark recalled Gyarados.

Go on.

Mark nodded and approached the door as the trainer recalled Suicune. The nurse near the doorway healed his Pokmon for him, and he walked in.

This arena looked identical to the other two, but the trainer there was a little boy wearing a very awkward, formal-looking suit. He ran his fingers slowly through his blond hair.

Hi, he greeted dryly. You here for a battle? Im warning you it wont be easy. Two on two.

The boy took a minimized Pokball from inside his suit, maximized it and threw it forward.

Go, Ho-oh!

What came out of the Pokball was absolutely huge. It was a gigantic, crimson bird, almost three times as tall as the boy. It stood on big, pitch-black talons and had peculiar, mask-like markings around its eyes. The Pokmon opened its crooked beak and let out a majestic, fierce cry. Then suddenly, it pointed its head upwards, the golden, crown-like crest on its head swaying back, and stretched out its broad, colorful wings, taking off into the air.

Mark considered his options, knowing that he was doing exceptionally well against this Gym just because he knew so much about the Legendaries. Ho-oh was a Fire Pokmon, but capable of using very varied attacks. It would be a risk, but Mark plucked Gyarados ball off the Pokball belt.

GO! he shouted. The sea monster emerged into the pool with his usual opening roar.

Dragon Rage! Mark ordered quickly, not wanting to risk an Electric attack making contact with Gyarados.

Sunny Day, said the boy calmly. Ho-oh closed its eyes and took a fiery glow as the sunlight shining through the dome intensified greatly. Mark shielded his eyes from the light with his hand. Gyarados breathed out a blast of crimson flames at the rainbow-colored bird and Ho-oh screeched in pain.

And now, Solarbeam! commanded the boy. Ho-oh obeyed, forming an orb of sunlight in its beak and firing a white-hot beam of light at Gyarados. He roared as the beam struck him, leaving a burn mark on one of the segments of his body. He countered with another Dragon Rage, which turned out to be too much even for the Legendary; Ho-oh let out a weak cry and then landed exhaustedly on the floor.

Return, said the trainer disappointedly. Lugia, do it!

Mark felt his stomach twitch upon hearing the name of his favorite Pokmon of all; he felt both excited to see it and very pained to know that hed just see a clone. The red and black Pokball opened in mid-air, releasing the Pokmon it held.

If Ho-oh was huge, Mark didnt know what Lugia was. The bright white draconic creature stood on powerful legs, stretching its somewhat hand-like, feathered wings out to a wingspan of what looked like almost six meters. Combined with the long neck, the Pokmon itself was probably over five meters tall. Growing back from the eyes were the two black spikes that Mark had always loved the most about this Legendary.

Gyarados, Dragon Rage! Mark ordered quickly. Gyarados wouldnt last long, especially not after having been hit with that Solarbeam previously, but at least hed be able to dish out some damage with the most powerful attack in his whole team.

Lugia, Psychic!

Lugia started glowing with a bright blue aura as Gyarados charged dragon flames in his mouth. The sea monster unleashed the attack a moment before the Legendary; Lugia got hit hard by the flames, but then fired a blue blast of psychic energy at Gyarados. He roared in pain and collapsed weakly.

Return, Mark muttered. He considered his possibilities. Despite what some people thought, Lugia was a Psychic Pokmon rather than a Water or Dragon one, so Charmeleon wouldnt be at a disadvantage. With it this sunny, the lizard should win.

Mark grabbed the Pokball with his hand.

Go, Charmeleon!

Marks evolved Pokmon came out. He appeared to flinch slightly at the sight of Lugias size, but quickly came back to his senses.

Flamethrower! Mark blurted out.

Hyper Beam! the trainer said, gritting his teeth.

Lugia started charging a white orb of energy in its mouth.

No, wait, Charmeleon

Lugia threw its head backwards before firing the beam.

DODGE!!!

Charmeleon jumped swiftly out of the way, just before a bright white beam smashed into the floor just where he had been. Some of the floor seemed to melt.

Flamethrower, now! Mark ordered. Lugia was worn-out after using all of its energy in a Hyper Beam and couldnt counter when Charmeleon breathed a tongue of flames towards it. With a loud cry of pain, Lugia collapsed.

NO! shouted the boy. He recalled Lugia disdainfully.

Go on, then, he muttered, opening the door. Mark went through it and was a bit nervous when the nurse healed his Pokmon. The previous match had been a close call.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
This arena was also identical to the previous ones. The trainer wore a lab coat and glasses and had long, black hair.

Youre going down, he said confidently. One on one. Go, Mewtwo!

Mew what? Mark questioned. The Pokball opened to reveal a strange Pokmon.

It was a light purplish blue all over. Its head was somewhat catlike with two horns pointing straight upwards in place of ears, but the overall shape was slightly humanoid. The whole body was so unnaturally thin, though, that Mark wondered if it had ever eaten a single morsel. He could count the ribs under the furred skin, and the long arms and legs had three bony fingers or toes each. Its eyes were small, white and had no pupils. Finally, absolutely contrasting with the weakish appearance of its body, it had a very long, muscular, dark blue tail ending in a round shape.

It suddenly dawned on to Mark what it was. It was Ricks experimental super-clone, but he had in fact cheated he had made a super-clone of a super-clone. Super-clone.

Go, Gyarados, Mark said nervously, sensing that this would be a difficult battle. The blue sea monster emerged from the Pokball into the pool. Gyarados let out his battle roar.

What is my task? said Mewtwos voice weakly inside Marks head. He couldnt help feeling horribly sorry for it.

Fight, the scientist ordered. He didnt need to say anything else. Mewtwo started glowing bright blue as the same glow took over Gyarados shape.

Gyarados, Dragon Rage! Mark commanded desperately, but Gyarados couldnt do anything that wasnt Mewtwos will now. Slowly, he rose up into the air, drawing closer to the ceiling.

No, said the weak telepathic voice as Mewtwos glow started fading and Gyarados got lowered back towards the pool. I dont want Mark saw the clones body starting to sweat, like it was making a great effort.

Fight, the scientist growled again. It was like Mewtwo was zapped with electricity or something; its body went stiff for a second, but then it started glowing blue again. At that very moment, Gyarados unleashed a blast of crimson fire which enveloped Mewtwo. A telepathic scream of pain could be heard; then the clone was left dazed and dropped down, fainted. Mark felt a twinge of guilt.

Return, muttered the scientist. Face Rick, kid, he then said, reaching into his pocket and taking out the key to the Pokball door. It opened slowly.

Mark went through the door and got his Pokmon healed, noticing that this arena was about double the size of the previous four. But the Gym Leader was nowhere to be seen.

Rick went to the basement, the nurse explained. Youll just wait here, wont you? I need to go now.

Mark nodded, and the nurse hurried out through a side door.

Mark sat down on a bench. The basement? Where was the basement? What was Rick doing there?

He stood up, walking backwards from the wall and looking if he saw a door somewhere. His foot slipped and he was sent flying into the pool.

Marks first thought was that hed have to change his clothes. The second thought was that this pool was stupidly deep. The third was Whats that hole in the wall doing there? The fourth was that hed better get out of the pool.

He swam to the bank and climbed up. He looked around, and seeing no signs of Rick, he sent Gyarados out into the pool.

The sea monster looked around, seeing no opponent, and turned back to Mark.

Could you swim down there and see what this hole in the wall is for? Mark requested. Gyarados just nodded and dived down. Mark saw him disappear through the hole. After a few minutes, during which Mark wondered why he was being so nosy, the monster returned.

Its very interesting, actually, Gyarados stated. Its a pretty long tunnel, but it ends where you go a bit up, and its got steps up, like you can empty the pool and then walk the whole way. Theres a red room there, I couldnt go in so I didnt see much.

A red room? Mark questioned blankly. Emptying the pool?

Yeah, you can probably empty it somehow. Try the light switches over there. Gyarados jerked his head towards the wall, which had six switches on it in two columns of three.

Mark walked over there, not sure why he was doing this but driven on by curiosity.

The switches werent marked. He pressed the first one and the lights went out. He quickly pressed it again, but nothing happened. He tried it again a few times, but then tried the second switch. The boxes the trainers were supposed to stand in got illuminated. Nothing happened when he pressed it again, either. He tried the third one and Gyarados got lit up too. He growled, screwing his eyes shut.

I dont like this light, he said.

Sorry, I cant turn anything off here, Mark apologized, attempting to press this button again. The fourth switch, to Marks great relief, put the lights back to normal. Pressing the fifth one, he wasnt really expecting anything interesting to happen, but with a great noise, a drain opened at the bottom of the pool and the water level started lowering.

Youd better recall me before it empties, Gyarados commented. Mark nodded, holding forward the Pokball as it dissolved Gyarados into red energy. The pool took a bit of time to empty, but it was way too deep for Mark to get to the bottom.

He hopelessly tried the sixth switch, and small handles appeared out of the wall of the pool, forming a ladder.

Mark shrugged and went down, wondering what Rick would do if he came back. He nervously entered the tunnel and walked through it. It was rather long, but in the end he came to another, short staircase. He climbed up, ending in, as Gyarados had said, a room lit by red lights. A see-through door led to another red room; it was open.

He curiously went in, but then heard voices. He quickly ducked behind a low wall. Through the red glass on top of it, he watched two scientists walk into the room, which he now had the time to examine.

It was full of glass tanks containing a brown liquid. Inside them floated Pokmon embryos, some very Pokmon-like, others just creepy, shapeless forms at the early stages. Each tank had a small screen and a keyboard on it. Odd, pyramid-shaped devices of different sizes were lined along the walls. Mark realized he was in Ricks cloning lab.

One of the scientists walked to a tank containing what looked somewhat like a Caterpie. The other one walked to one that was farther away so Mark didnt see what was in it.

Hey, Peter, the nearer one called, I think its ready.

The Peter guy came and peered at the caterpillar.

Yeah, looks pretty good, he agreed. Ive got to tend to mine, though. He walked back to his tank, and the one with the Caterpie did something on the computer and then the brown liquid started flowing out. The Caterpie was left in the tank and slowly opened an eye.

Cater it squeaked. Cater two! Mark suddenly understood what was going on they were making more super-clones, ones that Rick didnt have a license for. He hardly dared to breathe.

The scientist pressed a button and the tank opened with a low hiss. He picked up the Catertwo, smiling.

What a beauty! he said proudly. Peter came holding a Pikachu super-clone it had blue balls on its ears, blue pawpads, long blue claws and a threadlike, jagged tail with a blue triangle at the end. It looked menacingly at Catertwo and hissed, baring its sharp fangs.

Mines pretty good too, Peter said. The other one examined the Pikatwo.

Well, nothing beats Ricks. You know, the one he gave to Taylor, he commented.

Ah, well, that doesnt count, said Peter. Ricks the master.

Yeah, but seriously said the other one, lowering his voice, Ive got to say, Ricks spoiling the kid. If my little brother came to me and said the Charmander he got as a starter was too weak and he wanted a clone instead, Id tell him to shut up and clone one himself. But nooo, of course Rick just gives him the best clone weve ever made, and I heard hes going to give him even more! And then Taylor lost his Charmander and got some level 14 Quilava out of nowhere, just to keep it in the ball all day without training it at all! Not very responsible, is he? And I mean, whats Rick thinking, giving him super-clones? Anybody at all can see them! This is madness, somebody will catch him one day if he keeps this up...

The scientist stopped abruptly upon seeing a blond-haired, handsome man of around twenty-five enter from a side room, who Mark assumed was Rick.

Hey, Peter, Jimmy, do you know who was playing around with the switches? he asked worriedly.

Well, nobody entered, at least, said Jimmy. Wed have noticed.

Thats good. Lets just hope it was some random kid who left. Rick smiled faintly, but walked back to the room. In the doorway, he turned around again.

Oh Lee says Mewtwo is resisting the Clone Ball again. Weve got to make a new model of the ball.

The two scientists nodded.

Lets go evolve these beauties, now, said Peter happily and they walked over to the pyramid-shaped machines near the walls, which presumably could somehow evolve Pokmon. Mark saw his chance to escape. He quickly glanced at the door he came through, but the entrance room was filling with water again; Mark assumed that Rick was refilling the pool. He looked around the room and eyed a staircase leading further down. Not seeing any other possible exit, he crawled silently towards it.

It led to a long corridor containing nothing but posters on the walls with ideas of new super-clones. Mark took a quick look at each of them, but didnt have the time to read any properly. At the end of the corridor there was a ladder; Mark climbed up and hit his head on something hard. He discovered it was a trapdoor. Lifting it carefully up and climbing through, he discovered he was in the seemingly empty entrance room to the Gym itself.

He shivered, remembering that his clothes were still wet, and rushed to the hotel, thinking about this experience.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Just for fun, I made an Ouen Map (WARNING: Possible spoilers).



-------
RATING

Violence: More Dragonfree-style battles.

Gore: None.

Profanity: One "****"...

Sexuality: None.

Other: Again, hints of Pokmon abuse. Oh, and although it's not exactly a part of the rating - there is a point where you are going to get extremely wrong ideas about this fic, but they are absolutely wrong, as you'll see by the end of the chapter, so don't leave in the middle, OK?
-------




Chapter 9: Mews Escape

The old woman by the counter looked dully up as Mark walked past, but showed a great deal more interest upon noticing that his clothes were dripping with water.

Why are you so wet? she asked suspiciously.

Fell in a pool, Mark muttered absent-mindedly without looking at her. She didnt get anything else out of him before he disappeared up the stairs.

Mark felt like he had an overdose of mysteries for one day as he took his wet clothes off. May rightfully owned Charmeleon. Should he talk to Charmeleon about it, or just forget it and hope she would never find out? And to think that the guy who had originally received Charmander was the brother of Cleanwater Citys Gym leader! And Rick was making more super-clones he was abusing Mewtwo and Gyarados clearly had some serious issues with Suicune and used some weird mega attack of doom! This was so complicated!

Mark took on his blue jeans and white Pokball T-shirt, sat down on the bed and sighed.

Why me? I just wanted a Pokmon journey, not a headache like this!

After sitting there and staring into the air for a couple of minutes, he stood up. He was just going to get that badge, and then he could think about the other stuff. Better get the Gym over with.

And punish Rick in a battle for doing this to the Legendary Pokmon.

Mark felt oddly confident now that he felt like he had to do this. He walked determinedly out towards the Gym.

Rick shall pay.

The first junior trainer didnt seem to be there when Mark came. A note on the door told challengers to go right through, with the key taped to the note. Mark pressed the button and it slid out of the way. The other three junior trainers werent there either. He went straight through all of their arenas.

The young, blond-haired man from the lab was there, however. And so was May. He was hatefully handing her a coin-like object.

Hi, she said as she walked past Mark on the way out. He quickly whispered: Wait for me at the Pokmon Center, I seriously need to have a word with you. Its about your Quilava.

She looked puzzled, but nodded and walked outside.

Hello, Rick said dryly. Another challenger?

Mark nodded, turning to the Gym Leader.

How many Pokmon do you have? Rick asked.

Four, said Mark.

Four on four it is, then, said Rick. I choose

He reached down to his Pokball belt, with six Clone Balls attached to it, took one and maximized it. He grinned.

Articuno. Rick threw the ball powerfully forward. It popped open in mid-air, releasing a second Articuno clone. This one seemed all the more aggressive; it glared at Mark with ruby red eyes, scratching the air with its talons as if to show its power.

Go, Charmeleon!

The red lizard emerged from bright red light.

Flamethrower, Mark ordered.

Ice Beam! Rick countered quickly. Charmeleons blast of fire met with an elegant beam of ice crystals from the sky blue bird. Where they met, water started showering down into the pool.

Come on, Charmeleon, Mark muttered, clenching his fist. The lizard looked back at him and then suddenly, without warning, stopped breathing flames and leapt out of the way. Articunos Ice Beam smashed into the ground as Charmeleon fired another Flamethrower from directly below the bird. The flames enveloped the Legendary and Articuno fell, its wings on fire, into the pool, where the flames went out. Rick recalled the Pokmon, his face expressionless. He replaced the Clone Ball on his belt.

The battle isnt over yet, he said coldly.

Rick paused for a second, but finally took another ball off his Pokball belt.

Ho-oh, show him not to mess with Legendaries, he growled.

Rick sent out a Ho-oh, even larger than the one the junior trainer had. It flapped its multicolored wings and took off.

Earthquake. Ricks voice was icy; he clearly did not like losing the first round.

Charmeleon, return! Mark shouted, knowing it was the wisest thing to do. Gyarados, go!

Ho-oh slammed into the ground just as Gyarados materialized in the pool, but being in the water, the sea monster was not affected.

Dragon Rage! Mark roared. Gyarados released a blast of dragon flames at the giant bird. It screeched, trying to retain its balance. The blue dragon blasted more crimson fire at the Legendary, and it gave up with a final cry, landing gracefully on the floor and spreading out its wings before collapsing.

Rick gritted his teeth, recalling Ho-oh.

Raikou, show him! he snarled, tossing the third Clone Ball into the arena. Bring that thing down with a Thunderbolt!

The tiger-like Pokmon leapt out of the Pokball in mid-air, roaring. Electricity crackled in its fur, and before Mark had the sense to do anything, a blast of lightning was fired at Gyarados. He roared in pain and then fell down motionless. Mark seemed to remember reading that Gyarados were extremely vulnerable to electricity as he recalled the sea monster.

Mark nervously took out Sandshrews ball.

Go! Earthquake! he said quickly as he threw the Pokball. Sandshrew posed in mid-air and came down hard on the ground, causing the floor to ripple. Earthquake was an amazingly complicated attack; a human who got caught in the waves of the ground would merely feel a small tickle, but for the Legendary Beast of Thunder on the other side of the arena, it was in fact very devastating, disrupting the delicate balance between the positively and negatively charged ions in the Electric Pokmons body. Raikou growled, trembling a bit.

Another Earthquake! Mark commanded. Sandshrew rose to his hind legs, preparing to perform the attack again.

Quick attack! Rick hissed. Raikou leant back and then leapt forward at undetectable speed, striking Sandshrew hard. He lost his balance, and the tiger then attempted to sink its fangs into the little Pokmons body, but Sandshrew acted quickly on his own accord, and stung the Legendarys paw with one of his claws, injecting poison through it into the tigers blood. It howled in pain, staggering backwards, and then Sandshrew had the chance to unleash a second Earthquake attack. Raikou weakly let out some small sparks and then fainted.

Rick swore loudly, recalling the tiger.

Very well go, Mew!

Out of the ball came a light pink, furred little creature. The hind legs were much longer than the tiny front paws; its long, threadlike tail ended in an oval shape. Big, stubby ears rested on a catlike head with two big, sapphire blue eyes.

The previous Legendary clones had had absolutely emotionless eyes, like robots made to do what they were told, save for Mewtwo. But Mew was different. The eyes seemed somehow faded, half-closed, and above all horribly sad. The Pokmon looked limp.

Surf, Rick hissed. Mews weary eyes glowed deep blue and the water in the pool started rising in a great wave which crashed upon Sandshrew with terrible force, but flowed neatly past Mark on both sides. Slowly the water drained back into the pool, and Sandshrew was left soaked and shivering.

Shrew he said weakly before losing consciousness.

Mark hesitated. His determination from before was fading, and he only had Eevee left.

Oh, come on, maybe Im being overprotective, he thought. Jeesh, Im turning into Mom

Go, Eevee! he yelled, throwing the ball. The little brown creature materialized and looked at Mew with his big brown eyes.

Eevee, Return, Mark said anxiously. Eevee looked at Mew for a second, but then turned back to Mark.

Ee vee, he said. It took a bit of time for Mark to realize that this was the first clearly understandable thing that Eevee said. He was saying that he didnt want to attack Mew because it was so sad.

Oh, Eevee, please, theres nothing we can do about that! Mark said desperately. Eevee just shook his head.

Vee? he said, stepping a bit forward towards the Legendary.

Thunderbolt! Rick spat. Mew didnt react to it at all, and was instead watching Eevee.

Darn it, Psychic! Something! Attack, you stupid thing!

Mew said the Pokmon weakly. Eevee tilted his head curiously and walked farther up to the pink creature. He carefully laid a paw on its shoulder.

Eevee? he asked. Slowly, he started glowing with a pink aura the positive energy that Return was made of. Suddenly, Mews eyes opened wide. Then it dropped down, unconscious.

Eevee jumped away with a shriek, clearly very confused about what had happened. He carefully poked the pink Pokmons body; it didnt move.

Rick turned very pale. He slowly took out the Clone Ball, recalled the Mew into it and started muttering to the ball.

You theres a curse on you Ive lost every single battle Ive used you in this is all one of your devilish little tricks youre going to bring me down

Suddenly, Rick turned to Mark.

Catch, he said, throwing the ball at him. Mark caught it.

Huh? he asked, confused, staring at the orb in his hands.

Take it away! The devil, just take it!

What the

Dont you want it? Rick asked in a tempting voice. Mark looked open-mouthed at the ball. He was almost going to say no, he couldnt accept something like this, but then he remembered the sad expression on Mew throughout the battle. He couldnt leave it here.

Yes.

Ricks eyes glinted.

Good boy. Your badge.

He walked firmly up to Mark and dropped a small silver coin into his hand. Mark examined it. It had an eye engraved in the middle, but it was surrounded by a raindrop, a bolt of lightning, a flame and a leaf. The back of it said Element Badge. Mark pinned it to his T-shirt.

Leave, Rick said icily. Mark just went through the side door, pocketing Mews Clone Ball. The feeling was odd, and not at all what he had imagined it would be to win a badge.

He would have to go to the Pokmon Center and get Mew healed, but of course he couldnt hand Nurse Joy a Clone Ball. Shed think he had stolen it.

What he was therefore going to do first was a so-called inter-Pokball transfer. It could be done at any Pokmon Center using the trading machine. It was basically exactly like trading, except that both of the Pokballs were owned by the same person and one of them was empty. Afterwards, the Pokball the Pokmon used to be in would be unusable unless one went and got it recharged for a fee, which was only slightly cheaper than buying a new ball so along with having to waste another Pokball to put the Pokmon in, it usually didnt pay off. Therefore, trainers rarely did the transfer unless they had a very special reason to.

But Mark did, and therefore he walked up to the trading machine in the corner of the Pokmon Center. He placed Mews Clone Ball under one of the tubes after making sure nobody was watching, and then one of his normal Pokballs at the other end. He set the machine to inter-Pokball transfer mode, and the two balls got sucked up into the metallic tubes. The great screen in the middle of it showed Mews silhouette traveling across the screen, and Mark did his best to stand in the way so nobody could see it. Finally, both balls dropped down again.

He picked up the Clone Ball, minimized it and put it in his pocket. He didnt know why he felt the need to keep an unusable brainwashing Pokball, but he just did. Then he took a deep breath and picked up the other Pokball, now holding Mew.

He walked over to Nurse Joy, trying to look normal, and gave her the Pokballs.

Mostly just exhausted, he said. The nurse nodded, placing the Pokballs on a tray and putting it into the full-size equivalent of a Pocket Healer. After a few beeps were heard, she took them out again and handed them to Mark.

We hope to see you again, she said, smiling.

Mark nodded. Just then, May noticed him and walked up to him. He remembered what he had said to her before the battle, and cursed silently. He didnt feel like going into these explanations now, but then again they would be better over with.

What about my Quilava? she asked, getting straight to the point.

Well, its a long story, Mark began, and I cant really tell it around all these people.

Well, Im going fishing for Pokmon at the Lake of Purity. Why dont you just join me and well discuss that on the way?

Sure, said Mark, shrugging. They walked out of the Pokmon Center and headed towards the road.

-------

Youre telling me Rick is making more super-clones?

Yeah.

And that the lying little idiot with my Quilava is his brother?

Mark nodded. And the strange Pikachu he had, it was actually a Pikatwo, a Pikachu super-clone.

Well, Ill be ****ed, she just said.

Mark was still pondering over whether to tell her about Charmeleon, but decided not to. They were now at the Lake, and May was about to cast out the line.

Suddenly, Mark caught a glimpse of something light blue.

What was that?

What? May questioned.

I think I saw never mind.

No, what? asked May eagerly.

I think there was a Dratini there, Mark said, still staring at the same spot.

Rubbish, said May, while she was glaringly obviously looking around for it too.

Over there!

May threw the rod forward. A small creature dove back under the surface.

Darn it! she hissed.

Hey, I saw it first! Mark said.

So what?

Then Im the one who tries to catch it!

Thats not in any official rules!

Draa?

A small head poked out of the surface. It was pale blue with cute frills at the sides, two adorable eyes watching the two kids argue with interest, and a white muzzle.

Mark and May both took out Pokballs. May threw it first, but missed by far and the Pokball sank into the water. Mark accidentally dropped his because he was hurrying so much, and it rolled into the water, where it started sinking too. The Dratini dove down again. Mark could see his Pokball come to a halt when it reached the bottom. After a few suspenseful seconds, the Dratini swam forward to examine it, poked a little too far, and was dissolved into red energy that was drawn into the ball.

Mark stared at it for a second, and then prepared to jump in.

Mark, you are being an absolute idiot, May said clearly and pronouncedly, grabbing the back of his T-shirt. Do you think you can just dive in there? You may see the bottom, but this is the second-deepest lake in all of Ouen, for crying out loud.

It wasnt exactly because of her that Mark decided to rethink this plan. It was more because he already got his other clothes wet. But at the very least, he calmed down.

Now, look here, May started. Ive got a magnet, and Ive got a fishing rod. We can use them to get that Dratini out of the water. But both of them are mine, and it was just luck that Dratini went into your Pokball and not mine. So

Youre going to take my Dratini? Mark asked loudly. How about no?

You have no choice, she said, smirking as she drew a small magnet out of her pocket and attached it to the end of the line. She carefully lowered it down while Mark gritted his teeth.

Larvii, came a little voice. Mark gaped.

The owner of the voice was a small, green Pokmon with a triangular-shaped head. It had a small mouth, red eyes with black markings just below them, a red diamond shape on its belly and an odd, bundle-like tail.

Is everything full of almost-Legendary Pokmon here today?

May wheeled around, releasing the rod.

Whoa! Thats a Larvitar!

Oh, really? said Mark sarcastically, grabbing the rod while he had the chance and reeling in the Pokball quickly. Meanwhile, May threw one of her Pokballs at the Larvitar. Mark didnt bother seeing it wobble; he just hurried away so she wouldnt try to take Dratini too. Judging from Mays cry of YESSS!!, she had caught it.

Mark was now starting to think about Mew again. He felt a need to talk to it, but the hotel room was the only safe place to do so.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
He ran down the road back to Cleanwater, rushed into the hotel and saw the TV on, not paying much attention to it.

And finally, today, around two thousand captive-bred Dratini, Larvitar and Bagon were released into the wild all around the world.

Mark abruptly stopped to listen.

This is a part of a project to help these highly endangered species survive. In fact, they arent as strong as many people think, and this misunderstanding has sprouted from the fact that they used to be so rare that only the best of trainers would ever be able to capture them, ultimately making the result Pokmons full potential released. Less experienced trainers are not likely to manage to evolve them to their final forms and at the very least unable to unleash their full power, according to experts. More on this later.

Well, that explains it, Mark muttered to himself. Suddenly his capture wasnt as significant, but it still felt as great. The part about only strong trainers being able to make these Pokmon strong made him wonder. Was he one? Was May one? Would he have to face one sometime?

He remembered what he was at the hotel for, went up the stairs to his room, closed the door carefully, sat down on the bed and took Mews Pokball slowly out.

Go Mew. Mark dropped the ball down, the two halves separated and a sphere of red energy from within took shape into the pinkish-white, catlike creature.

Mark sat completely still. After Mew had stared at him for a while, the Pokmon sat down beside him, wrapping its long tail around him in what appeared to be a greeting of some sort.

What happened? asked the Legendary quietly without looking at him, calmly like it was merely asking about the time.

Well, which parts do you know? Mark replied, shrugging.

Three years in darkness, always exhausted, like a puppet, only occasionally thinking clearly, but having no choice but to let my consciousness drift away for a momentary ease of pain

Mews deep, sapphire blue eyes looked into Marks.

Now, I am here, once again blessed with freedom.

It took a bit of time for this to sink in.

Wait youre not a clone?

No, said Mew simply. Had I known no life outside of being forced into obedience and fighting mindlessly all day long, I would have accepted it. Like the others. Their minds know nothing else. Those will only fight back who know there is something worth fighting for.

What about Mewtwo? Mark asked quietly.

He is powerful that allows him to think clearer they have been strengthening the Clone Ball, but its too late once he has felt himself being robbed of his free will and thought I can sense his sorrow at this very moment

Mark was quiet for a long while, but then muttered: Thats so sad.

Mew nodded slowly. Sad indeed, but there is no way for us to help. I am very fortunate, which brings us back to the original question.

Rick gave your Pokball to me, muttering something about there being a curse on you. Mark paused, then added: Why?

He does not realize our feelings. I have fought back; I have weakened my attacks as I could and done my best not to give him the pleasure of winning. So far I have succeeded

There was a short silence. The Legendary Pokmon sighed deeply. We shall see what destiny has in store for him.

What will you do now? Mark asked quietly.

I will go home. I used to reside deep inside Rainbow Woods before he came.

Mark stood slowly up and opened the balcony door. No words were necessary. Mew just nodded, looked at him with those bright blue eyes, and flew outside.

Maybe Ill see you you-know-where, Mark called. Mew gave a small nod, then shot up towards the sky.

-------

On the street below, a bearded man wearing a brown hat and a trench coat jerked his head upwards.

Did you see that? he whispered to the Pokmon beside him. It nodded slowly.

And did you see the boy?

Another nod. The mans gaze flickered a bit.

And did you hear what he said?

He didnt wait for an answer. A weird smile spread across his face.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Is nobody reading anymore? :(

Anyway, this is the longest and to my opinion best chapter yet.




-------
RATING

Violence: Pokmon battles, more violent than the ones you've been seeing here so far.

Gore: A bit, but nothing very serious.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: One "****", yet again...

Other: Lots of threatening and thought about death. And semi-religious stuff that I hope my readers don't have too much against...
-------




Chapter 10: The Mew Hunter

Mark went down the stairs slowly. He felt incredible after talking to Mew. Much to his dismay, he met the one person he wasnt interested in meeting at the stairway as she came walking from the other corridor. She didnt say anything to him and they just walked down the stairs, ignoring each other very ironically.

They both returned the keys, acting like the other wasnt there, and both walked out the same road towards Rainbow Woods, the forest that grew between Cleanwater City and Alumine.

Oh darn, Mark thought. Mew isnt about to come anywhere near when shes here...

They just walked for a long while as the tall trees surrounded them in all directions.

Why are you always following me? yelled Mark finally in frustration.

Just because were walking along the same road at the same time doesnt mean Im following you, you know, said May, glancing at him.

But why are you walking just here at the exact same time as I am, refusing to even look at me? Mark argued.

You have big issues with me, I see, said May, raising her eyebrow. Look, Im not one to start a conversation. I dont talk to people who dont want to talk to me, so I usually just answer when Im asked. Because you didnt seem very keen on talking to me, I decided not to annoy you by talking. Do you have problems with that?

Mark blushed. Eh did you catch that Larvitar? he asked to change the subject.

Yeah, and I noticed you took off with Dratini.

Darn it! Mark hissed to himself.

So, you going to take Dratini back or something? he asked defensively.

Nah, said May. Ive got Larvitar. I think I am the better one out, anyway.

Mark angrily took out Dratinis ball and pointed his Pokdex at it.

Dratini dragon Pokmon. This Pokmon sheds its skin to keep control of the massive amounts of life energy it has. So rare it was said to be a myth.

He checked the stats. Male, level 15, he muttered.

So is Larvitar, May replied. Hey, maybe we could, you know, battle them out.

She got that battle glint in her eyes again.

Fair enough, Mark answered after a moment of thought. Go!

He sent out the slender, snake-like dragon on the ground. May threw forward the Pokball containing the green creature from earlier. It gritted its teeth and waved the long horn on its head like a sword.

Dratini, Wrap! Mark called out. The little dragon obeyed, slithering forward to wrap his long body around Larvitar and starting to squeeze as hard as he could.

Bite! May ordered quickly, and Larvitar locked its small but powerful jaws around Dratinis body. The dragon released him with a small cry of pain.

Twister! Mark shouted. The dragon started glowing turquoise, stood up on the end of its tail and started spinning around, faster and faster. Finally, he released a greenish-blue whirlwind that shot at Larvitar.

Sandstorm! May hissed. Larvitar raised a paw into the air, its red eyes glowing intensely golden, and a stream of sand materialized out of nowhere behind it and met the whirlwind. Mark clenched his fist; Mays face was expressionless until she, with a triumphant smile, saw that the whirlwind, now also a wheel of sand, started moving back towards Dratini. One thing sat in Marks head: Dragons were weak to their own attacks.

The whirlwind engulfed Dratini. The small Pokmon screamed as he was bombarded by the wheel of sand along with the dragon power contained in the whirlwind. He was whipped into the air and came down unconscious.

Return, Mark grumbled. He looked hatefully at May as he attached the Pokball to his belt again. She sighed.

Look, we dont need to start some rivalry about this. I beat you, but thats no big deal. I hate it when people hate me. Lets just be friends, okay?

She held forward her hand. Mark hesitated, but then shook it.

Hey, theres a caf at the forests edge, just before we get out of it. If you have money for yourself, we can eat there, May offered.

Sure, Mark replied.

They ventured through the forest, now without the tense atmosphere, and Mark felt a lot better to know that she wasnt plotting to steal Dratini or anything. They came across a few weak wild Pokmon too, but just took turns beating them instead of trying to catch them, subconsciously trying to avoid another Dratini situation. Finally, they reached the caf. It was a pleasantly green, very small-looking wooden house with red decorations, dug a little into the ground so it seemed even smaller. A faded, red sign above the door said Rainbow caf.

Ive got to admit, this looks miniscule, said Mark, staring at the house.

Come on, I ate here on the way from Alumine to Cleanwater, it isnt as small as it looks, said May, dragging him down the small stairs leading to the door.

She was right. Somehow magically, it was much bigger on the inside than outside. Small, red, round tables were positioned very randomly all around the floor, with anything from one to five matching red chairs around them. People sat here and there, most of them deep in either conversation or thought.

The kids sat down at a table near the door and ordered some grilled toast. They didnt talk much while they ate, but May was sure taking her time as she appeared to eat unnaturally slowly; after Mark had finished, she had only eaten half of hers. Mark tried to make her speed up a little bit using sign language, but she just gave him strange looks and mentioned enjoying the food.

After eating, they paid and were about to stand up when Mark noticed that his Pokball belt had no Pokballs on it anymore.

Wha did you take my Pokballs? he asked, scanning the floor for any traces of them.

Of course not, said May offended. Im not a hypocrite.

What happened to them? asked Mark hysterically, looking under the chairs and everything.

Mark, Pokballs dont fall off by themselves, said May seriously.

You mean

Somebody stole them, yes. Not me, but somebody.

Mark looked frantically around. Who?

May put up a thoughtful expression. Maybe that weird guy in the trench coat. He sat down just behind you, didnt order anything and then after a while hurried out of the door, turning left.

That means to Alumine, Mark breathed. He grabbed Mays arm.

What are we waiting for? Lets go after him!

He sprinted towards the city. May just sighed and walked, letting him shake her off.

-------

Trench coat, trench coat

Mark came to the citys edge, panting, and looked around. Alumine was medium-sized, but rather dirty and not an extremely pleasant place to live; most of the buildings were just blocks of concrete painted in some disgusting color that was thankfully starting to fall off. One building stood out, and was at the end of the main street Mark was entering; it was the famous Alumine Gym, constructed out of Skarmory feathers and shaped like one end of a vertical eye-shape sticking up from the ground, with the doors as the pupil. It reflected the sunlight off a million steel surfaces, all facing in slightly different directions. Mark had heard that the Gym Leader there used the sunlight to help him win battles, thanks to the opponent having a hard time seeing around.

A tall, bearded man, most of his face hidden in shadow beneath a brown hat and, indeed, wearing a trench coat, entered an extremely ugly, sickeningly yellow, large building just to Marks right. It took a second for him to realize that this was the man he was looking for. He was about to follow him when he heard Mays voice.

Hey, she said. Wasnt that him?

Yeah, Mark replied. You coming with me?

She stared blankly at him. What, youre just going to knock on his door and say Hey, you stole my Pokmon, can I have them back?

Well, yeah, pretty much, said Mark simply.

Youre crazy, May sighed, shaking her head.

So what? Mark snapped. If youre not coming, fine.

He walked firmly towards the yellow building and knocked on the door. The trench coat guy answered it, of course not wearing the coat anymore. He stared at Mark for a second, then shoved him inside and closed the door.

You! the man spoke in a hoarse, quiet voice. His eyes were black and extremely open, and a dark full beard covered much of his face.

Here Ive been you didnt have must get

On second thought, he also seemed a little bit crazy.

WHERE IS IT? he suddenly bellowed, grabbing Marks arm firmly. Okay, maybe quite a bit crazy.

Where is what? asked Mark, puzzled.

You-know-where! he hissed.

More like an absolute madman who shouldve been locked in long ago.

What? Mark questioned, even more confused.

You know very well what Im talking about! My life! My dedication! Where is you-know-where?

Suddenly, it dawned on to Mark what he was talking about.

You mean Mew?

What else could I mean? the guy snarled. Look, I have spent my entire life searching for Mew! I MUST FIND IT!

Uh, said Mark, backing away, why didnt you just give up on it long ago? He immediately thought this was a stupid question.

The man took a few deep breaths, looking a lot less mad afterwards.

Ill tell you the whole story doesnt matter we have plenty of time

You can call me the Mew Hunter for convenience. I started my Pokmon journey around your age I lived in Johto then. I got a Totodile as my first Pokmon chose it for the jaws, mind you Ive always been a lot for sharp things but by then I was already fascinated by the one Pokmon that possessed the genes of them all.

He didnt explain what he meant, but he didnt need to; Mark knew he was referring to Mew.

I wanted to find it and claim it as mine but of course, such a thing required a lot of preparation I got a Sandshrew and a Sneasel, and managed to dig up a Kabuto fossil and get it resurrected I evolved Totodile, Sandshrew and Kabuto, and with these four Pokmon, I started an unofficial Gym of Pokmon with sharp claws or fangs, just for the profits. We are in the Gym right now.

Mark looked around; that sounded sensible. The floor was marked as a Pokmon arena and the ceiling was very high. Two large windows with six panes each were on the wall to the left, and the light filtering through them seemed to be the only light source in the arena.

I also studied Pokballs. After earning the money to buy a Master Ball, I used my knowledge to make some modifications to it I made it so that the Pokmon inside it would be unable to escape a certain distance away from the ball itself. I was going to use it on Mew. And once I had made it, I closed the Gym and headed out to search for the ancestor of all Pokmon

But I had competition. Rick, from the Cleanwater City Gym, was also heading towards the same goal. He had a Pokball that would capture anything and put it under total control, weakening its mind to obey everything it was told. A disgusting idea I knew that it must not be done to Mew I was going to earn Mews trust, just like I had done with my other Pokmon but he was going to use Mew as a slave. I could not let that happen. I was determined to find Mew first.

And one day, I finally stumbled upon Mew, sleeping in the shadow of a tree. But Rick was there too. We threw our balls at the same time from my studies, I knew that if a Pokmon was hit with two balls at once, it would be torn apart and killed unless it collected all of itself into one ball the impact of the two balls would wake it up, and I was confident that Mew would choose me who would choose total slavery over a temporary limitation of freedom?

But Mew chose Rick to this very day the thought has haunted me, why did Mew prefer Ricks control? I have never found out why

The mans voice had slowly reverted to the mad, desperate one throughout the last few sentences.

I went through a long period of depression, but finally I decided to reopen my Gym, caught two new Pokmon and forgot about Mew. But today, I saw Mew again I saw it fly out of a window and you were addressing it, stating that you two supposedly would meet you-know-where.

He paused, and then spat out in a totally different voice: Now, Id like you to tell me where that place is.

Mark didnt like idea of telling this person anything about where to find Mew. The Mew Hunter didnt sound like he was lying when he talked about earning Mews trust rather than forcing it to do anything, but he wouldnt be surprised if he a somewhat twisted definition of earning somebodys trust.

No, he therefore answered. Im not telling you.

Im afraid you mistook that for a question! the man barked. Speak, or things will get nasty.

No, said Mark firmly.

The man got a very sickening glint in his eyes.

Really? he said slowly, glaring at Mark with the kind of a smile Mark had only seen on villains in movies. Mark noticed his hand slowly picking a Pokball from his belt.

You know, my friend here is amazingly convincing. Want to meet him?

Marks eyes darted towards the door as he thought of making a run for it.

Well, youre meeting him whether you like it or not, the man hissed, hurling the Pokball powerfully towards Mark. Something big and green came out of it, dove straight at Mark at amazing speed and knocked him down. He felt his head hit the wall hard. A sharp pain seared through his head as his vision blacked out for a second; when it came back, he was met with a not-so-pleasant sight.

The thing that had hit him was a Pokmon commonly associated with horror films, blood and stereotypical evil. It was somewhat like a light green, bipedal mantis with a reptilian head, but most importantly, two long, wickedly sharp blades attached to its arms. As sickening as it was, Mark found one of them positioned a centimeter or so from his throat.

The Scyther held him firmly down so that he couldnt have moved even if he hadnt been stiff from the sheer shock of having his life so suddenly put on the edge of a knife. He felt his heart pumping like crazy, every vein throbbing like it was about to burst. To crown it all, his stomach apparently fancied being empty at the moment. Seeing what was about to happen, the Pokmon turned Marks head slightly to the left before he threw up.

Aw, you dont like his reasoning? the man asked in a mocking tone. Well, too bad. Feel like talking now?

No, Mark choked up, sounding a lot braver than he felt.

Ill give you two five minutes to be alone, said the man, checking his watch. Talk then or He ran his finger quickly over his throat, then turned around towards a side door and slammed it shut.

Mark was left in the arena with the bug Pokmon, not sure whether the five minutes were meant for him to think about it or just to discomfort him even more. A few seconds convinced him that it was the latter.

His horrified gaze ran over to the Pokmon. His stomach twitched just from looking at it again. The beasts eyes were completely colorless; the socket was shaped like a skewed rectangle, and the whites were pearly and veinless, disrupted only by the jet-black slits that were the pupils. It was staring straight at his face, completely expressionlessly.

Mark wondered what would happen if he just told the guy that Mew was at some random place and got released. He could just go and tell the police and get the Mew Hunter arrested. But while the man was clearly mad, he didnt seem stupid at all. Hadnt he thought of that? Mark whirred through the last things the man had said, and realized that he had never actually said Mark would be released if he did tell of Mews location. He got a horrible sinking feeling. Was this the end, whatever he did?

He started imagining what it was like to be killed. Was there life after death? What kind of a feeling would it be? Would it happen right away? The good thing was that he knew Scyther took very much care in sharpening their scythes so their cuts were virtually painless from his point of view, it wouldnt be that bad a death

Oh, come on, he thought bitterly to himself. You dont want to get your **** throat cut by a mad Scyther!

The Scyther isnt mad, said the perfectionist voice in his head. His trainer is.

Yeah, but its the same thing, Pokmon do what their trainers say

Do they?

You mean negotiating with a Scyther? You crazy?

Maybe, but it cant hurt, can it? You have nothing to lose.

Oh man. First sign of insanity: staging an imaginary conversation with oneself.

But then again, there was a point in that. He had nothing to lose.

Eh Mark said hesitatingly, immediately regretting it. But the Scyther decided to answer nevertheless.

You scared?

Mark didnt find any longing to answer that question.

Death is not to be feared, for it is the only thing that we all have in common.

Seeing the confused look on Marks face, the bug added: Its an old Scyther saying. It means: why fear death of all things, when its the exact one thing we can be positive will happen to us all sooner or later?

If that was supposed to be comforting, it was failing miserably.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
You hate that guy, right? Mark asked weakly.

What would you know? Scyther replied.

But you wouldnt actually

Why not? asked Scyther calmly.

Well you wouldnt feel good, would you? Mark suggested. Scyther smiled faintly.

Trying to appeal to my conscience, now are you? But tell me one thing, human: is it your honest belief that Scyther have a conscience?

Eh, well, yeah, I liked to think so, at least, Mark said awkwardly.

Of course we have a conscience, Scyther said bitterly. And all the emotions you can feel to go with it. But if you knew that, you should also be able to realize that being a predator leaves you with a choice of permanently blocking out everything called pity for a victim, or starving to death.

Will you get anything out of killing me? Mark tried another approach.

No, but Im not the only Pokmon here. Take Kabutops. His scythes arent as sharp as mine, Ill admit, he doesnt think too much about the maintenance

Mark quickly changed the subject to the first thing he could think of.

Eh you wouldnt want blood on your nice, clean scythes, would you? he said out of the blue.

Scyther sighed. Look, this is getting ridiculous now and I have the feeling that you arent about to say a single logical thing from now on, so why bother? Im not the one who decides what happens here. You were given five minutes as a chance to think over your situation, and youve been wasting them talking to me. While I do appreciate a chat, I feel its my duty to inform you that youre not buying yourself a single minute of additional life.

Mark decided to follow the Pokmons advice; funnily enough, he had managed to forget about the scythe threatening him while they talked, but now he was starting to feel uncomfortable again.

Then suddenly, a wonderful though struck him like lightning. He felt warmth spread around his whole body. He wheeled through it in his head a few times, yes, it appeared to work

The side door opened and the Mew Hunter came back in.

So, he said slowly, walking up to Mark, are you going to speak out?

No, said Mark, his heart beating like crazy. Despite having found a plan that should work, all of his courage had flown out of the window during the last five minutes and wasnt about to return.

You want to die, kid? the Mew Hunter snarled.

No, Mark answered quietly.

Well, newsflash: theres no alternative! growled the Mew Hunter. Telling me or not?

not. Marks voice was trembling. This was it. Either he was right, or he was wrong and then his life would end right here.

The man went white for a split second. OK, then, he said in an odd tone. It will be quick

Mark closed his eyes, but Scythers scythe did not move. He smiled; he had been right. The Mew Hunter didnt want to lose him so easily.

You were never going to kill me, were you? Mark asked, feeling oddly secure.

Well, let me tell you one thing you are never going out of here, never until you tell me where Mew is

You stole my Pokmon, right? Can I have them back? Mark decided that he could think of a way to escape later; it was time for what he originally came for.

The man took out what Mark recognized as his Pokballs out of his pocket.

You want them? he asked. Win them from me in a battle. He smiled slyly.

Sure, Mark answered, although he couldnt figure out why the man would want a battle right now.

Scyther, come, said the Mew Hunter. The Pokmon released Mark and stood up as Mark also did so, but Scyther just stood there by Marks side.

Rob, he said calmly, I can do a bit of empty threatening for you, but I will not aid you in kidnapping or taking hostages.

The Mew Hunter went white.

Get over here! Now!

No, said Scyther, not moving.

TRAITOR! the Mew Hunter bellowed.

Rob, please, Scyther said. Was there a hint of sadness in his eyes? Is Mew really worth wasting your life for?

The Mew Hunter hesitated, unmistakably looking a bit sad too, but then said: Im sorry, Scyther but Mew is my life. Either youre with me, or with him.

Then Im with him, said Scyther, stepping nearer to Mark, for the Rob I used to know.

Mark was very confused by this; there was true pain in Scythers voice, but who could miss such a man?

Uh, my Pokmon? So I can battle? Mark asked hesitatingly.

The Mew Hunter glared nastily at Scyther and then looked back at Mark. Looks like you have one already. In fact a match for all the others.

What, this is going to be a five on one? Mark asked in disbelief. But

Go, Kabutops! the Mew Hunter snarled, sending out a brown, bony Pokmon with a flat, triangular-shaped head, two small eyes and blades on its arms, similar to Scythers.

Kabu? asked the Pokmon, turning back to its trainer with a confused expression.

Scyther has betrayed us, he growled.

Im not fighting him, hes my friend, Kabutops protested.

Kabutops, lets just get this over with, said Scyther with a horrible, suicidal kind of expression.

Ska-a-a!

Everybody looked up. A Skarmory had just been sent out of a Pokball high up near the ceiling. Marks heart took a leap as he saw the grid covering the end of the ventilation pipe up there in the corner fall down with a lot of noise, revealing a blue-haired girls head. She jumped onto Skarmorys back and flew down. Mark had never imagined hed ever be so happy to see her.

How about no? she said coldly, recalling the steel vulture. Ive got five Pokmon. I take this one, she removed one Pokball from her necklace and put it in her pocket, and now there are four left. With him, she pointed at Scyther, this is a fair five-on-five. OK then, go, Butterfree!

She sent out her giant butterfly. It soared in the air, facing Kabutops. The Mew Hunter seemed in a shock at first, but then just seemed to accept these conditions.

Kabutops, Slash.

Sleep Powder! May snarled. Butterfree flapped its wings, releasing a cloud of greenish spores as Kabutops leapt upwards, its blades raised. Inhaling the powder, the fossil Pokmon seemed to get drowsy, and as Butterfree flew a bit higher up, Kabutops fell asleep in mid-air and crashed back into the floor.

Finish it with a Giga drain! May commanded. The sleeping Kabutops took a deep green glow and small green orbs of energy started ripping lose from its body, the Pokmon twitching violently with each one. The orbs circled Butterfree until all of Kabutopss glow had faded; then they sank into the butterflys body.

Kabutops, return, said the Mew Hunter, his voice trembling. Sneasel, go! Tear its wings to shreds!

Mark suddenly realized why the Mew Hunter had wanted a battle in the first place his plan had originally been to injure Marks Pokmon enough to make him tell of Mews location in exchange for him not hurting them more.

A small, catlike creature with big eyes, a blood red feather-like thing in place of its left ear and two long, sharp claws on each front paw came out of the Pokball.

Snee! it screeched, starting to run across the room. The Sneasel actually ran a short way up the wall before leaping with great agility towards the butterfly Pokmon, stabbing its claws into its wings and dragging it to the ground. As they were about to crash, Sneasel ripped itself loose and managed to jump up on Butterfrees back. It wasnt really necessary; Butterfree wouldve been out cold upon crashing either way, its wings in a very bad condition. Butterfree twitched a bit, like a fly that was about to die.

Return, said May calmly, ignoring her Pokmons state. Skarmory, go and use a Steel Wing.

The metallic vulture burst out of the Pokball and swooped down towards Sneasels shape. The agile little cat dodged it and attempted to slash at Skarmorys steel feathers, but no avail; it didnt even leave a scratch.

Icy Wind! ordered the Mew Hunter. Some of the muscles in his face twitched.

The Sneasel jumped up, spreading out its arms, and opened its mouth to release a powerful gust of cold wind, hail and snow. Skarmory wasnt particularly hurt, but clearly slowed down a bit, allowing Sneasel to dart to another place and release another blast of icy wind.

Drill Peck! May ordered hastily. Skarmory flew up and started spinning, swooping down at the cat. The Sneasel just leapt out of the way with ease, but Skarmory turned and kept gaining speed. Finally, its sharp beak stabbed into Sneasels back. The cat let out a horrible screech, but then fell forward, blood gushing out of the wound.

Come back, said the Mew Hunter. Feraligatr, show that bird not to mess with us.

He sent out a huge, bulky, bipedal blue alligator. It had red spikes on its hunched back and a very powerful-looking yellow lower jaw.

Fer-al! it cried, showing all of its long fangs.

Drill Peck, May ordered. Skarmory dove down again, spinning.

Crunch, said the Mew Hunter evilly. His Feraligatr opened its mouth, and locked its jaws around Skarmorys body when it came near enough. After a few seconds of war between the steel and the jaws, Skarmorys body started crumbling together. The vulture screeched, and sensing that this could very easily kill it, May quickly recalled her Pokmon.

Pikachu, Thunderbolt! May said determinedly, throwing forward her third Pokball. A yellow, bipedal rodent with two long, black-tipped ears and red spots on its cheeks came out of the ball. Its cheeks started sparkling with electricity and then it released a bolt of lightning that shot at the blue alligator. It was too slow to dodge, but as most slow Pokmon, it made up for the lack of speed with more endurance. While it did roar in pain and stagger backwards slightly, it didnt look too weakened afterwards.

Earthquake, said the Mew Hunter, clenching his fist. The alligator lifted one foot off the floor and then stomped it down powerfully, making the floor ripple in waves like when Sandshrew used the attack. Pikachu attempted to jump up and avoid it, but ended up getting caught anyway. Releasing a flurry of electric sparks, the rodent dropped limply down, unconscious.

Pikachu, come back, said May, biting her lip. Lapras, now my faith is in you!

She sent out a very big, blue, sea turtle-like Pokmon with a bumpy shell and kind-looking eyes.

Sing, May ordered. Lapras started singing a sweet melody, and Feraligatrs eyes slowly got drowsy.

Slash! commanded the Mew Hunter quickly. It was still too late; Feraligatrs eyelids sank downwards and finally it collapsed, fast asleep.

Body Slam, said May calmly. Lapras started paddling forward to finish Feraligatr off, and knowing that leaving it in was pointless, the Mew Hunter took out the Pokball and recalled the alligator. He then hesitated a bit, first grabbing one Pokball like out of instinct, but then deciding on another.

Go, Sandslash.

Mark wondered why he had made this choice; Sandslash was very weak to Water attacks.

Surf, May smirked. Lapras spewed water into the air, which came down on the floor and flooded in a huge wave towards Sandslash, soaking it and leaving it fainted. Easy one.

The Mew Hunter smiled evilly. Fangcat, go wild.

Out of the Pokball came another Pokmon commonly associated with horror movies; it was a pretty big, slender, cream-colored feline with two enormous, bloody fangs hanging down from its mouth.

It fixed its hungry eyes on Lapras and then leapt forward with a roar, sinking its fangs deep into the turtles neck. Lapras let out a high-pitched wail; all the color drained from Mays face as she recalled her Pokmon.

Is Fangcat going to be willing to attack you? Mark whispered to Scyther.

Her? Scyther snorted. Shed attack anything thats not Rob. Shed be overjoyed about being allowed to kill in this battle if she was able to express any emotion other than bloodlust and hate.

But you have to battle her, Mark said, his eyes wide.

Of course I have to, said Scyther simply, walking forward. I know what Im doing.

Fangcat, punish him! the Mew Hunter roared.

Fffffang! Fangcat hissed, her eyes fixed on Scyther. He watched her closely too.

Suddenly, Scyther darted upwards. Fangcat leapt amazingly high after him, but he just flew even higher. Fangcat turned around in the air, knowing that Scyther was about to try to attack her from the back as she fell. When he dove down to slash at her, a well-aimed strike resulted in one of her fangs running Scythers body through.

He was stiff for a split second, his eyes wide, but then he raised both of his scythes and started slashing like mad. She was unconscious, cut and bloody all over when they landed on the floor, her fang still entering his upper body at the front and coming out at the back. He was breathing rapidly.

Fangcat, return! the Mew Hunter said, white as a sheet of paper, as he held forward a Pokball. The feline was absorbed into red energy and disappeared. Scyther was left lying alone on the floor. He then started muttering something Mark recognized as the saying he had mentioned to Mark earlier:

Death is not to be feared for it is the only thing that we all have in common

Scyther closed his eyes. The Mew Hunter took out a Pokball, wide-eyed, but it just somehow melted away into thin air. Marks heart was beating; Pokballs didnt do that unless

May walked slowly towards the motionless mantis, observing him for a few seconds. Finally, she bent down and poked his shiny green armor. She quickly pulled her hand back.

Hes dead, she clarified after a moments pause. It didnt surprise Mark. The Mew Hunter just stared at the lifeless Pokmon on the floor.

no, he then whispered. No! NO!

Oh yes, said May mercilessly, stepping away from the body. That bloody beast of yours killed him, on your own orders.

The Mew Hunter dropped to his knees and buried his face in his hands. Scytherno

Mark was amazed at how quickly his whole attitude changed; just a few minutes ago, he had been the madman who seemed to want nothing more than see something killed, but now he looked completely broken down.

Mark hadnt exactly known Scyther for a very long or pleasant time, but couldnt help feeling horrible.

For ten seconds or so, everything was silent except from the Mew Hunters sobbing. Then, all of a sudden, the big window farther away on the wall was shattered to pieces. Even the Mew Hunter looked up to see what was happening.

In through the window flew a small, pink, catlike creature with big, sad, sapphire blue eyes.

It is such a shame, said Mew gravely, not to anybody in particular, levitating two meters or so above Scythers body, when the young die

The Legendary Pokmons big eyes turned to the Mew Hunter.

Especially when one knows that when it comes right down to it its ones own fault. There was a brief silence.

Your life was meant to be longer, said the Legendary Pokmon then sadly to the lifeless body on the floor. The beautiful eyes closed, and Mew was enveloped in a reddish-pink aura. So was Scythers body.

The big hole in the middle of his upper body closed. The blood on the floor disappeared. The glow faded, first on Scyther, then on Mew.

Scythers eyes opened.

He blinked a few times and then slowly stood up.

Im back... Scyther whispered, looking around. Mark realized that he had just witnessed a miracle an example of the incredible power of the Legendary Pokmon

I won the battle, said the Mew Hunter suddenly. Scyther died.

Hey, thats not fair! Mark protested. Fangcat fainted first!

But Scyther died, the Mew Hunter hissed.

Looks pretty darn alive to me now, Mark replied. The mantis was seemingly talking to Mew.

But he was

Hey, OK, lets assume you won, May interrupted. Then well give in and tell you where Mew is: over there. Now give Mark his Pokmon so we can leave.

The Mew Hunter jerked his head in Mews direction, like he was first now realizing that it was Mew and not something else.

I will change my whereabouts now, said Mew, turning to him. I shall travel and you shall not find me.

The Mew Hunter grabbed a Pokball, but Mews eyes just glowed a deep purple, its shape started to flicker and then it disappeared in a flash of violet.

I will find you I will he muttered, staring at the place where Mew used to be. Then he seemed to snap out of his trance, fixed his gaze on Scyther and reached for his Pokball.

But Scythers Pokball melted! he realized as his hand found only air.

Yes, said Scyther slowly. Mew told me Im not yours anymore

The Mew Hunters eyes widened.

Rob, we could go back and live our old life. But are you ready to give up on Mew for that?

I have to go I have to find Mew Im sorry, said the Mew Hunter.

Then I wish you the best of luck, said Scyther sorrowfully before taking off and flying out of the window to freedom.

The Mew Hunter stared after him.

Um my Pokmon? Mark asked carefully.

Sure said the Mew Hunter absent-mindedly, handing him his Pokballs like he had no idea what he was doing. Mark quietly attached them back to his belt and the kids hurried out of the building before the Mew Hunter realized where they were.

-------

Wow, May said on the way to the Alumine Pokmon Center. That was some adventure

Where were you the whole time, by the way? Mark asked curiously.

Well, when the guy took you inside and you didnt come out again, I got a bit suspicious so I walked around the house a bit and found the end of that ventilation pipe. Then I got into it and ended up at your end, and watched and heard everything. I didnt want to come down sooner because I didnt think it would be smart to give Scyther a reason to erm, change the plan

Why didnt you just call the police? Mark asked.

Well May bit her lip, you could say Im not much for the way they do things.

Mark decided not to question her further about that. I feel a bit sorry for that man, though. Hes totally brainwashed.

May nodded. But Mew is at least going to travel around now. Oh, were here.

The familiar, red, dome-shaped roof of the Pokmon Center towered over them. A sign outside it informed them that the Pokmon Center had free rooms for all Pokmon trainers.

Wait!

Scyther walked through a crowd of people who automatically split to the sides, giving him a clear path.

Whats your name? he asked Mark out of the blue.

Mark, he replied, not sure what Scyther wanted.

Mark, can I come with you?

What? Mark stared at the mantis.

You wouldnt understand, its complicated, but I have nothing to live for in the wild. Robs Mew-obsession has taken over him. Its either you or wasting the life that Mew gave me another chance at.

Mark nodded.

One condition, though, said Scyther worriedly. This may sound strange, but dont report him to the police. Ive known him for three years, and usually he is a wonderful person and friend. Trust me, youve only seen the one truly bad side of him. He doesnt deserve jail.

Mark nodded again.

Got a spare Pokball? Scyther questioned. Mark took out the last one that had come with his Pokball belt, and tapped Scyther with it. He was dissolved into red light and sucked into the ball. It immediately pinged; Scyther showed no resistance against it.

It was quite an interesting Pokmon team Mark was going to have now. An abandoned Charmeleon, a baby Eevee who didnt know what Pokmon training was, a Sandshrew who had just gained his very first bit of confidence, a starved, weird Gyarados, a Dratini who was bred in captivity and then released, and a depressed Scyther.

May just stared.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Lily

◕ ‿‿ ◕ double rainbow.

Female
New Joisey
Seen February 26th, 2017
Posted June 26th, 2011
3,329 posts
18.7 Years
Ah sorry for not revieweing earlier.

Very interesting chapters...I was about to suggest not to powerplay Mew, since having a Mew of all pokemon in the beginning would be considered a bit awkward. Excellent emotions between the Mew hunter and the Scyther, very effective in the tone you used. And wow, a Scyther just came to Mark, although Mew giving him another chance at life surprised me a little, but an interesting play in the story. I loved that part. XD

Otherwise, I do feel sorry for the Mew hunter too, wonder if he's going to succeed...probably not. I like the ending, the way you described his team, it makes it sound non perfect and not too powerful. Overall, excellent chapter. I loved it, and had a great time reading it.

^_^

( ‿‿ ) PM me for a contract.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
You'll learn why Mew said Scyther's life was meant to be longer later, as well as more about the Mew Hunter, but here comes chapter eleven. It's short...




-------
RATING

Violence: None.

Gore: None.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None.

Other: A bit of creepiness, but nothing that matters.
-------



Chapter 11: The Lizard and the Mantis

Mark was starting to feel uncomfortable again when they waited for their Pokmon to be healed. Nurse Joy had informed May that thankfully, her Pokmon would recover.

This Pokmon Center, like the one in Cleanwater City, had a pink furry carpet and red couches scattered around randomly. As Mark sat motionlessly in one, he drifted into sleep.

The dream was just a very short flash of scythes, eyes with slits for pupils, green reptilian heads, forty centimeter-long blood-covered fangs, death and a bit more blood. Then he snapped back awake, breathing rapidly.

Mark calmed down upon realizing that he was in the Pokmon Center. May was just bringing his Pokmon back.

Thanks, he mumbled, attaching them to his belt. Hey, I think Im going outside for a bit I guess I could use some fresh air, and maybe Ill introduce Scyther properly to my Pokmon.

She nodded, and Mark stood up, walking outside. The sun was slowly sinking into the horizon in the far west. The air was comfortably cool, although it couldnt exactly be called fresh.

Go, Charmeleon, Sandshrew, Eevee, Dratini.

The four Pokmon materialized on the ground and cried out their names. Gyarados couldnt be let out on land, but Mark just hoped he didnt mind.

Um did you know that you were stolen? Mark asked.

Yes, we know the whole story, said Charmeleon. But were back with you now, so does that really matter?

Well, you see Ive gotten a new Pokmon

Mark felt one of his Pokballs wobble a bit; then the two halves separated. A beam of red shot out of it and took shape into Scyther right next to Mark. As the mantis Pokmon formed, the four smaller ones backed away.

Mark asked Charmeleon hesitatingly, isnt that the thiefs Scyther?

Yeah, Mark said. He joined us.

Charmeleon stared at him for a second, but then asked: Erm what the heck happened to your common sense?

What? Mark asked, confused.

Well, isnt it obvious? Charmeleon snapped. Youre opening the door wide to a Pokmon that was going to kill you just half an hour ago!

He wasnt going to! Mark objected. He even refused to battle for the Mew Hunter!

Who says that isnt a part of the plan too? said Charmeleon, eying Scyther suspiciously.

I

I cant force you to trust me, said Scyther just, and really, I cant blame you for not trusting me. Im not used to being trusted.

Oh, come on, said Mark annoyed, just give us your word that you arent going to hurt anybody.

I dont make promises, said the mantis calmly. Not to you, not to somebody who wont believe it anyway, and not to anybody else. Breaking a promise is painful, and the only way to avoid the pain is not to make the promise.

Mark was starting to feel a bit more skeptical about Scythers company now, but he didnt want to admit defeat right away.

See? Charmeleon snorted. At least he has the decency not to go behind his words by not giving any words to go behind!

Let Mark decide, said Scyther expressionlessly. Hes heard both sides of the argument, and its him who were trying to affect. Let him be the judge.

Guys, Mark said decisively towards his Pokmon, I want all of you to come over here and accept Scyther as one of you.

The mantis offered his right scythe for a handshake, but Marks four much smaller Pokmon just flinched, apart from Charmeleon, who glared at Mark like he couldnt believe this. Nobody moved, until finally much to Marks surprise Sandshrew walked nervously forward. He glanced anxiously at the raised scythe, but decided not to come near it so he just nodded and sat down.

Great. Anybody else? Mark asked, smiling.

He was even more surprised when Eevee tilted his head and approached the giant bug. He even raised his right front paw to touch the top of Scythers blade. He smiled faintly, moving his arm slightly. Eevee jumped, but showed no signs of regret when he took place beside Mark.

Dratini then slithered forward. His black, beady eyes looked curiously up at the bugs reptilian head, and what could only be a cute little smile appeared on his face. Scyther nodded slowly, and the dragon crawled to Eevees side.

Now only Charmeleon was left, and he showed no signs of being about to come over. He just gave Scyther a nasty glare, folded his arms and then turned his back firmly towards the rest of the Pokmon, flicking his tail flame.

Fine, said Scyther matter-of-factly. Well have it your way, then

And he also crossed his bladed arms and turned his back towards Charmeleon in the exact same manner.

Oh, come on, Mark sighed, but the two Pokmon didnt move.

Mark!

May came out of the Pokmon Center and eyed Scyther and Charmeleon curiously before turning to Mark.

Hey, theres supposedly a decent, cheap restaurant in town called The Gamesharked Skarmory. Ive been given directions, and Im going there now. Are you coming?

Yeah, sure, Mark said, recalling his Pokmon and trying to act like there was nothing wrong. He was thankful that May wasnt the type of person to ask questions.

-------

After the meal, May told Mark that it would be best to get rooms at the Pokmon Center because it was free. Mark noticed that she seemed to be obsessed with everything being cheap, but didnt mention that. They just walked back to the Pokmon Center and checked in.

Once Mark was alone in his room, he undressed, put on his pajamas and, after a bit of thought, sent out his five Pokmon small enough to fit in the room. He noticed Charmeleon starting to growl at Scyther, but interrupted quickly:

Hey, now were just going to sleep, all right? No arguing, insulting, attacking, or anything of the sort.

Scyther and Charmeleon nodded, and lay down on the floor with the other Pokmon. Mark made carefully sure that they werent going to do anything before closing his eyes.

Scyther suddenly leapt at him, his scythes raised. Mark gasped, only to discover that the mantis was lying peacefully on the floor, fast asleep.

Stupid dream, he muttered, turning around.

Fangcat snuck up on Charmeleon and prepared to sink her fangs into his unsuspecting body; he was turned around with his arms folded and didnt see her

Mark woke with a start, finding that this was also a dream.

Darn it, he mumbled. He dug his face into his fluffy pillow. Suddenly, he had no face and was throwing a black and red Pokball at Mew

Knowing in the dream that it was a dream, he broke out of it by forcing his eyes open. He screwed them shut again, staring at the blackness on the back of his eyelids. Two bright yellow eyes opened in the dark and he woke up yet again, his heart stinging uncomfortably.

He waited, and waited. Mew started laughing manically, threatening to kill Eevee. Mewtwo lay dead in a pool of blood on the floor, but the Mew Hunter was trying to resurrect him by muttering old sayings. Mark ordered Scyther to kill May because she was trying to steal Charmeleon.

Mark knew it was all a stupid dream, but let it all happen in his head without waking up. It was somehow relieving to let all of this days happenings mix up into something insane.

-------

A young man stared out of the window at the stars. His gray eyes reflected their light.

Emotions he muttered out of the blue. Strong ones fighting to keep them inside interesting

He blinked.

-------

Charmeleon lay on the floor, pretending to be asleep. Mark wasnt mumbling in his sleep anymore; he had most likely fallen into deep sleep.

Mark is being stupid, he thought grimly. Does he have any idea what a Scyther could do in the night? Especially one who can break out of Pokballs by himself

And that bug is acting all arrogant, trying to be the wise one, trying to look good but I see right through him if Mark doesnt want to believe me, fine

Ill show that overgrown mantis one day Ill show him

With a grin, he closed his eyes. He dreamt not the happenings of this day, but a plan for the future.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Not my best chapter, but meh.



-------
RATING

Violence: Pokmon battles as I write them...

Gore: None.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None.

Other: Nothing special.
-------



Chapter 12: Let There Be Light

Mark woke up the next morning, feeling like he hadnt slept at all. He didnt remember much of his dreams, except that they had all included some sort of a tweaked version of something that had happened the day before. Except the ones with the yellow eyes, he wasnt sure where that came from.

He blinked, staring at the ceiling as he still lay in the bed. What would he do today

Mark smiled at his own stupidity when he realized the obvious: he hadnt challenged the official Pokmon Gym of Alumine yet.

He sat up and blinked some more. His Pokmon were still asleep. He got dressed quietly and recalled them without waking them up.

After breakfast, he headed straight towards the magnificent, shiny building. He had heard that the Gym Leader used shine to his advantage, and suddenly started getting a bit nervous. He had been battling the previous Gym Leader yesterday! This was a whole new one, most likely with considerably stronger Pokmon.

He was pretty confident that the Gym Leader had to possess at least one Skarmory. Living in this town, it seemed absolutely absurd for a Gym Leader not to have one, especially seeing as the Gym was constructed out of their feathers.

And Steel types like Skarmory were resistant to a lot of things, if Mark remembered correctly. Most physical moves, at the very least, and a lot of special ones too. But they were definitely weak to Fire, meaning Charmeleon would be at an advantage.

Eevee, however, would be toast. He could only perform Return and probably Tackle, Tail Whip and stuff like that. Nothing that would ever harm a Steel-type to any extent.

Sandshrew would have a very hard time against a Skarmory, too; his Earthquake would not affect a bird Pokmon, and aside from that he could only scratch and use Poison Sting, which Mark believed was completely ineffective on Steel Pokmon.

Gyarados and Dratinis dragon flames wouldnt harm a Skarmory much either; Steel was the only type that resisted Dragon moves. As far as Mark knew, Gyarados didnt know any Water attacks. Maybe some Normal ones, but definitely not Water ones. Not Dratini either.

And Scyther well, Mark didnt know much about his strength exactly

He whipped out his Kyogre-colored Pokdex and pointed it at the mantiss Pokball.

Scyther mantis Pokmon. Scyther is a highly dangerous Pokmon due to the sharp scythes it uses for hunting. It has been overhunted ever since the discovery of its Steel-type evolution, Scizor, and their numbers are decreasing rapidly, said the electronic voice. Mark selected the option to view the Pokmons stats.

His jaw dropped.

Level 42? he thought. Thats insane! The rest of my Pokmon are just somewhere around level 20!

But level 42 or not, Scyther in general werent very fond of attacks that didnt involve their scythes in some way or another. However sharp they might be, they would never be able to leave as much as a scratch on a Skarmorys feathers.

Mark stopped in his tracks. He was lucky he hadnt just wandered right into the Gym without thinking it through! The battle would essentially be one on however many Pokmon the Gym Leader might have.

This required some preparation. The first thing that popped into his head was Eevee, but of course, he couldnt evolve him now

Or am I just being overprotective again?

Mark sighed and took out Eevees Pokball, sending him out. Somehow, he felt like Eevee looked older, but then again, he was probably just imagining it.

Vee? he asked, looking at Mark. His voice was now getting clearer and not as squeaky and baby-like. Mark was certainly not imagining that. Was Eevee growing up?

Hey, Eevee Mark wondered how to begin.

Yes? asked the Pokmon.

Have you have you ever thought about evolution? Mark decided just to get to the point.

Evolution? Eevee tilted his head a bit, like he wasnt sure what he meant.

Yeah, like Charmander evolved and now hes a Charmeleon.

Oh, Eevee realized, you mean like growing up?

Guess it can be called that, said Mark, shrugging.

But doesnt that just happen when youre old? Eevee questioned.

No, Mark explained, evolution can happen in many different ways. Its often the equivalent of some part of growing up, because a lot of physical maturing takes place at once during the process of evolution, but it doesnt happen depending on age. Some Pokmon evolve when they have gained a certain amount of battle experience, sometimes evolution is triggered through strong emotions, for some Pokmon going through the compression that happens during a trade causes them to evolve, and some like you, Eevee can evolve when exposed to certain materials.

Will I become a Flareon, then, like mommy was? the Pokmon asked curiously.

Well, said Mark, not sure how to say it, you can become one of five Pokmon, or choose to stay as you are.

What can I evolve into other than Flareon? Eevee asked.

Well, you can become a Vaporeon, Jolteon, Espeon or Umbreon too. Vaporeon is a Water Pokmon that relies on endurance and special attacking power and can dissolve into water Jolteon focuses on speed and Electric attacks and can fire the spikes on its body at opponents Flareon is a Fire Pokmon and its strategy is built on physical strength and resistance to elemental attacks Espeon is adept at using its Psychic powers quickly and effectively Umbreon centers around toughness and defensive abilities and is a Dark type. And, of course, you can also just be an Eevee.

I dont know, Eevee answered insecurely. Will I change, like when Charmander evolved?

Change? Of course you will change, into a different Pokmon

No, I mean inside.

Mark felt a twinge of pain in his stomach. Hopefully not if we wait, then never mind, youre not ready, he just mumbled and recalled Eevee. How could he have forgotten that? If anybody was too young to evolve without changing very much in personality, it was Eevee.

Hed just have to hope the Gym Leaders team didnt consist of many Skarmory.

Mark sighed and walked towards the Gym. The bright sunlight reflecting off the million feathers blinded him. When he came to the half-circle shaped door, he opened it and went inside.

It was pitch-black.

Um hello? he called into the darkness.

Hello, answered a calm, deep male voice. A challenger, eh?

Yeah, Mark said nervously.

Then let the light flow

Suddenly, vertical rifts of light appeared high above. They widened gradually and the sunshine found its way inside, revealing what was going on; a pale-skinned, bulky man with steel gray, spiky hair and pitch-black sunglasses wearing some kind of a silvery outfit stood on the opposite side of the room near a horizontal row of switches. When the man had assured himself that Mark had seen him, he turned another switch on. Suddenly, Mark was absolutely blinded as a ring of huge, bright projectors on the walls lit up. He winced, covering his eyes with his arms.

The man laughed. My name is Christopher and I am the Gym Leader of Alumine. This is my Gym, and in my Gym, you play by my rules. I want light, then Ill have light.

Mark nodded.

Secondly, Christopher continued, we will use two Pokmon each in this battle.

Mark blindly reached for Charmeleons ball.

Go, Steelix! shouted Christopher.

Charmeleon! Mark yelled, throwing the ball into what he presumed was the arena. Peering out of the small rift between his eyelids, he could make out his Fire Pokmon cowering from the light.

Char he growled.

Steelix, Earthquake! ordered the Gym Leader. Mark realized what he was doing; he was using attacks that didnt depend on the user seeing the opponent.

Jump! Mark ordered desperately as the massive shape of the iron snake raised its tail. Charmeleon did what was even better; he jumped onto Steelixs tail and hung on to it while the iron snake sent ripples around the floor.

Flamethrower! Mark blurted out quickly.

Slam! Christopher countered.

The shape of Steelixs tail was slammed towards the floor, but Charmeleon jumped off in time and breathed out a long tongue of brightly-colored flames. Steelix roared in pain.

Iron Tail, said Christopher, seemingly a bit worried. But when the iron snakes tail was lifted upwards, it cast a shadow at Charmeleon, and he aimed carefully before sending a blast of flames straight at Steelixs flat metal head. The massive snake flailed around in pain, roaring, and Charmeleon grabbed the opportunity to attack again with another Flamethrower.

The gigantic shape collapsed with a roar. Mark could make out a flash of red light that dissolved the iron snake.

Very well Christopher grumbled. Go Scizor.

Mark was surprised. Either the Gym Leader didnt have a Skarmory at all, or he would rather send out a Pokmon that was much weaker to Fire attacks. Mark knew that Scizor, the evolved form of Scyther, had dark red armor, three spikes sticking out of its small head, two thin, transparent wings that it couldnt fly with, and pincers on its arms. The shadowy shape that Christopher sent out seemed to match that description except that while Mark couldnt see it very well due to the light, it was certainly not red. It seemed more greenish.

Double Team! Christopher commanded hastily.

Scizor! hissed the Pokmon, and suddenly there were three of them standing there. Mark had no idea which was the real one. Neither did Charmeleon.

Flamethrower the one on the left! Mark shouted worriedly. The lizard spewed out a blast of fire, which melted the Scizor copy upon contact.

Double Team two more times! Christopher said harshly. Each of the two that were left split into three, bringing the total up to six. Then all six split too, and eighteen Scizor surrounded Charmeleon.

Uh Mark wasnt sure what he could do now. Charmeleon wouldnt have the energy to melt seventeen copies, especially when they could duplicate themselves again at any point.

Metal Claw! Christopher barked. His bug Pokmon all jumped at Charmeleon with their pincers raised as they turned a steel gray color, and grabbed his arms, tail, feet or horn. He roared in pain; Mark knew that only one of them had actually stricken, but it had stricken hard.

And now, Slash!

The Scizor all opened their pincers wide before slashing at the lizard. Charmeleon retaliated by melting another copy, but the rest slashed again.

Return, Mark said, holding the Pokball forward. Charmeleon was getting too weak.

He thought about who to send out next. The Scizor copies were still there, so they would be hard to beat whatever he did. But Scizor couldnt fly, and Earthquake would hit anything that wasnt flying

Suddenly, the door to the Gym opened behind Mark and May stepped inside. She was blinded by the light and raised her hand to shield her eyes, noticed Mark and waved with her other hand, smiling. She leant up to the wall to watch the battle, however she was going to see anything properly.

Mark remembered that he was still battling and reached for Sandshrews ball, but before he managed to pluck it off his belt, he felt Scythers ball start to wobble. The mantis burst out in a flash of red light.

Scyther, what do you think youre doing? Mark yelled angrily. This counts as sending you out!

Thats the point, Scyther growled. That pathetic life form you are currently facing is a Scizor.

What do you mean?

That my pride as a Scyther is at stake.

Mark remembered the story he had been told when he was little about how Ash Ketchums Pikachu had battled Lt. Surges Raichu and won for the sake of all unevolved Pikachu out there and showing that evolution wasnt everything. Was this something similar? It could also have something to do with the fact that, at least according to the Pokdex, Scyther had been decreasing in numbers ever since Scizor was discovered.

Mark didnt get the chance to ask. Scythers shadowed shape was already standing firmly on the ground, surrounded by copies of his evolved form. If he was blinded by the light, he wasnt showing it.

Suddenly, Scyther darted forward towards the first Scizor he saw. His scythe immediately chopped it in half and it dissolved. He did the same with all the others at amazing speed, until finally one turned out to be solid. The scythe didnt put a scratch in the Scizors metallic armor, but it was knocked backwards. Scyther started slashing more intensely with both of his scythes, the Scizor narrowly blocking them with its pincers. Then suddenly, the green mantis leapt over the armored bug and slashed at its back. Mark couldnt see clearly what happened, but it appeared that Scyther had cut Scizors wing off as it fell to the ground with a clatter.

The Scizor let out a cry of pain, collapsing, and Christopher, apparently afraid of what this could result in, raised a hand and said: I give in.

He pressed a button; the projectors were turned off, and Mark realized what was so unusual about the Scizor; it was a moss green color and slightly sparkly. Also known as a Shiny.

Mark stared open-mouthed at it. Shiny Pokmon were incredibly rare. They didnt differ from normal Pokmon in power, but a genetic mutation caused various parts of their bodies to be colored differently from the usual and give off a slight sparkle. Most trainers would die to own one; Mark didnt like them that much, but just the thought of the recognition would still be enough to make him take a lot of risks.

Christopher grinned; he seemed to enjoy the attention. Marks gaze darted towards May, and instantly knew that she was one of the trainers who would die to have a shiny Pokmon; she wasnt staring at the Scizor in awe, but rather straight into the air, her face red with envy.

Suddenly, Scyther, who had been glaring at the Scizor with a gaze that could kill, started attacking it again, even though the Shiny had already been defeated. He slashed mindlessly, despite knowing that it wasnt hurting Scizors metallic armor, with an expression of uttermost loathing.

Scyther Scyther what do you think youre doing youre breaking the Agreement! Mark cried out in an attempt to catch the mantiss attention, but no avail. Christopher just quickly got out a Pokball and recalled his Pokmon. Mark did the same, stunned; Scyther kept trying to slash even as he got dissolved into red energy.

Your badge, said Christopher grudgingly. Mark walked up to him and the Gym Leader dropped a coin similar to the Element Badge into his palm. He muttered some thanks and took the badge, walking to the place where May was standing as she went towards her place on the arena. This coin seemed to be made of steel and had an extremely smooth, shiny surface. Mark turned it around; the back had Shining Badge engraved into it.

Just then, Christopher turned the projectors on again to battle May.

Go, Skarmory! she commanded, sending out her steel vulture.

Go, Steelix! the Gym Leader ordered, apparently having put his massive iron snake into a Pocket Healer while Marks mind was focused on something else.

Swift, May said, smirking. Mark knew it was a clever move in the situation; it couldnt possibly miss. Her Skarmory released a flurry of feathers from its body, and indeed all of them shot straight at Steelix as though guided by an invisible force. But the snakes armor was too thick to be harmed by the attack at all; the feathers bounced right off it, and Steelix didnt even seem to notice.

Iron Tail, said Christopher. His Pokmon swung its tail upwards, knocking the vulture down. May recalled it without words.

Lapras, do it! Surf!

She sent out her big, turtle-like Pokmon and it shot a stream of water from its mouth into the air. It formed into a huge wave which crashed towards the Steelix. This it clearly noticed; it roared in pain, flailing around, and finally collapsed onto the floor.

Return, said Christopher and drew another Pokball. Skarmory, win this!

Apparently, he did have a Skarmory. He had probably just wanted to save it for later or something. His steel vulture was considerably bigger than Mays, and circled Lapras like an injured prey that was about to die.

Skarmory, plan E.

His Skarmory, with a high-pitched cry of Ska-a-a!, rocketed up towards the wall on one side. It didnt stop, but rather smashed into it. As the walls swayed dangerously, the steel feathers started raining down upon the arena. The trainers automatically stepped back to avoid them, but Lapras couldnt leave the arena and got heavily cut. Skarmory didnt wait for an order and instantly did it again. The battle got more fast-paced, both trainers yelling out commands at the same time, Skarmory smashing the ceiling again and again, and Lapras firing icy beams. Finally, May ended up as the victor.

Christopher was clearly a lot happier to hand her the same badge he had presented to Mark earlier than him. Mark couldnt really blame him; after all, he wouldnt have been too happy either if his Pokmons wing had been cut off.

Seeing that May was walking towards the door, Mark just went outside, relieved to be in normal light again.

Scythers behaviour while battling Scizor still gave him the creeps.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.
Age 33
With my love, PikaPal, deciding where the honeymoon is going to be
Seen May 7th, 2005
Posted January 23rd, 2005
1,137 posts
18.7 Years
Wow, thats good, no, better, great, no still better, I can't think of a word that is better than awsome, but its gotta be 10x better... I cannot wait till the next chapter, Keep up the best work I've read in a long time....wow....
~~Married to PikaPal, My one and only true love!!~~
~~I'm PikaPal's miniture schnauzer!!~~

Clubbies: Official Mew Club, Official Articuno Club, Official Dragonfree Fan Club, Legendary Dogs Club, Shiny Hunters Club, Espeon Club, Fake Pokemon Club, Power Ranger Club, Zelda Club, Pokemon_Veteran Fan Club, Eliana Fan Club, Kingdom Hearts Club, Flygon_Zero Club, Pikachu Club, DF dadragons Club, Sesshomaru Club, Reboot Club

^^ Isn't it cute!! Adopt one at Suita-Raito today!!
Sorry guys, had to shorten it since spoilers are gone...
Color(s) will change periodically..

emeraldslay

Obsessed with Mew/writing

Age 30
Seen August 3rd, 2008
Posted August 2nd, 2008
400 posts
19.1 Years
It is extremely rare that I say this about a fan fiction but, this has the potential to be published if copyright laws etc didn't interfere. This is such a brilliant story! Can't wait for the next chapter! I also love how you moulded levels, shinies, potions and TMs into this fic. It adds up to one ultimate fic.

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Just a small update:

Chapter 13 is on the fifth page, and it's going to be good. It features another one of my made-up Pokmon...


A preview for you all:


When a lone Murkrow flew over the desert a short while later, he witnessed a most peculiar sight.

It was as if a stream of jet-black ink started seeping out through the dunes, covering the sand. If he had then lowered his flight, as to see what was going on, he might have noticed that the flood was in fact made of thousands and millions of relatively small creatures, black as night.

Their movements were synchronized like those of a school of fish, yet they were so many that to the Murkrow high above, it seemed like a blanket of shadow had spread out over the sand.

Had the Murkrow landed, it would have been his doom.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.
Age 33
With my love, PikaPal, deciding where the honeymoon is going to be
Seen May 7th, 2005
Posted January 23rd, 2005
1,137 posts
18.7 Years
OOOoohh, I CAN'T wait.... Your stories are soooooooooooooo good!!!!! Since you said it was on page 5, go ahead and spare us the torchure (spelling??) and post at least to page 2...PLEEEEASE!!!!! If I was to rate this fic... It would be a number so big, only a sideways "8" could represent it....

(the sideways "8" is the infinity sign for those who didn't know...)
~~Married to PikaPal, My one and only true love!!~~
~~I'm PikaPal's miniture schnauzer!!~~

Clubbies: Official Mew Club, Official Articuno Club, Official Dragonfree Fan Club, Legendary Dogs Club, Shiny Hunters Club, Espeon Club, Fake Pokemon Club, Power Ranger Club, Zelda Club, Pokemon_Veteran Fan Club, Eliana Fan Club, Kingdom Hearts Club, Flygon_Zero Club, Pikachu Club, DF dadragons Club, Sesshomaru Club, Reboot Club

^^ Isn't it cute!! Adopt one at Suita-Raito today!!
Sorry guys, had to shorten it since spoilers are gone...
Color(s) will change periodically..

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
I only post a chapter when I've finished it, so no, you're not getting the first two pages earlier. I was being very nice by giving you that sneak peek.
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.
Age 33
With my love, PikaPal, deciding where the honeymoon is going to be
Seen May 7th, 2005
Posted January 23rd, 2005
1,137 posts
18.7 Years
Ok...sorry, thanks for the sneak peek...
~~Married to PikaPal, My one and only true love!!~~
~~I'm PikaPal's miniture schnauzer!!~~

Clubbies: Official Mew Club, Official Articuno Club, Official Dragonfree Fan Club, Legendary Dogs Club, Shiny Hunters Club, Espeon Club, Fake Pokemon Club, Power Ranger Club, Zelda Club, Pokemon_Veteran Fan Club, Eliana Fan Club, Kingdom Hearts Club, Flygon_Zero Club, Pikachu Club, DF dadragons Club, Sesshomaru Club, Reboot Club

^^ Isn't it cute!! Adopt one at Suita-Raito today!!
Sorry guys, had to shorten it since spoilers are gone...
Color(s) will change periodically..

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Mwahahahaha. TORTURE! MORE SPOILERS!

- It introduces a new character - or does it?
- May gets a bit more attention, so to speak.
- Introducing... PHILOSOPHICAL CONVERSATIONS! There's going to be a lot of them around later.
- And the Black Desert...
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.
Age 33
With my love, PikaPal, deciding where the honeymoon is going to be
Seen May 7th, 2005
Posted January 23rd, 2005
1,137 posts
18.7 Years
AWWWW I was hoping you were done....
*kicks self in behind* Drat.... ENOUGH TORTURE ALREADY!!!!
~~Married to PikaPal, My one and only true love!!~~
~~I'm PikaPal's miniture schnauzer!!~~

Clubbies: Official Mew Club, Official Articuno Club, Official Dragonfree Fan Club, Legendary Dogs Club, Shiny Hunters Club, Espeon Club, Fake Pokemon Club, Power Ranger Club, Zelda Club, Pokemon_Veteran Fan Club, Eliana Fan Club, Kingdom Hearts Club, Flygon_Zero Club, Pikachu Club, DF dadragons Club, Sesshomaru Club, Reboot Club

^^ Isn't it cute!! Adopt one at Suita-Raito today!!
Sorry guys, had to shorten it since spoilers are gone...
Color(s) will change periodically..

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
Well, the good news is I'll probably finish it tomorrow. :P
~Butterfree/Dragonfree/antialiasis of The Cave of Dragonflies

Still not going to sprite for your fangame. Sorry, but I don't really sprite or give out permission for people to use my fake Pokémon anymore.