The Quest for the Legends (version ILCOE) Page 3

Started by Dragonfree October 1st, 2004 5:47 PM
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  • 110 replies

Dragonfree

Teh Spwriter. :3

Age 33
Female
Iceland
Seen February 9th, 2020
Posted November 28th, 2012
1,290 posts
19.1 Years
I know, I know, I'm late.



-------
RATING

Violence: A bit of battling that isn't even described in details, so you'll be fine.

Gore: None worth mentioning.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: There's a "****"...

Other: Includes a bit of death talk.
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Chapter 13: The Black Desert

Hmmm yeah, its definitely shorter

May was observing the Ouen Map at the Pokmon Center while Mark was petting Eevee, who was curled up in his arms, half-asleep.

What is shorter than what? Mark questioned.

Its shorter to go through the Black Desert to Scorpio City than around it, May replied.

Black Desert? asked Mark doubtfully. I dont like the sound of that.

Weve got our Pokmon, May just said.

But May if the normal route goes around the desert, theres got to be a reason for it, right? Mark asked, not at all convinced.

What could possibly happen? Weve got strong Pokmon to fend off any wild ones, weve got Water Pokmon who can quench our thirst in the unlikely case of emergency, and it isnt very far anyway

Suddenly she added: Youve got a sleeping bag, right? We arent going to find a hotel in the desert, you know.

Yeah, of course, Mark answered, immediately afterwards realizing that this had sounded like he was agreeing.

Come on, we should hurry, May said and marched outside. Mark had no choice but to follow her, wondering whether she had intentionally tricked him into answering the sleeping bag question.

-------

On they walked, out of the city, into the mountains, higher and higher up. There were a few Pokmon there, but not many, and they were easily taken care of. The sky was clear and the sun shone with blazing intensity, making it rather uncomfortably hot.

I do not look forward to walking through that desert in this, Mark moaned. May ignored him.

They walked all day with a few stops, entering the sandy, lifeless wasteland known as the Black Desert around six oclock.

The Black Desert? Mark asked, looking blankly over the yellowish-brown dunes.

Its just a name, said May, shrugging. Come on.

The sun slowly sank into the horizon as they were on their way through the desert. It quickly got ice cold, and finally they decided to stop for the night. Charmeleon got to sleep outside of his Pokball due to the tail flame, which made them feel safer.

Whats so black about it? Mark asked, lying in his sleeping bag and staring into the fire.

Go to sleep, May muttered.

He took her advice.

-------

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.

-------

Something was creeping up on Mark again. It was not Scyther or Fangcat; it was a new threat, shrouded in darkness. He had gotten used to these dreams the previous night, but there was something eerie about this one that sent a chill going down his spine.

All of a sudden, the dream burst into an eruption of flames. It was so burning hot that Mark found himself awake and sitting upright the next second, facing the answer to his question from earlier.

All around, a crowd of pitch-black scorpion-like Pokmon faced him with their segmented tails raised. Each had two yellow, pupil-less, evil-looking eyes on the front of its head. Two pincers snapped at the end of the foremost set of limbs. And it was so crowded that there was no sight of the sand anywhere except just near where the kids were. The Black Desert was indeed black.

For some reason, May was also awake, staring at the scorpions with the same expression of horror that Mark had. Charmeleon was still asleep, blissfully unaware of it all.

What are they? May whispered.

Mark didnt answer; he just reached for the Pokdex clipped to his belt and pointed it at one of the scorpions with a trembling hand.

Scorplack, scorpion Pokmon, said the Pokdex in an electronically calm voice. Native only to the Black Desert, they sleep buried in the sand during the day and come out in hordes in the night to hunt. They are actually blind, but have eye-like spots on their heads to frighten enemies. Scientists debate on whether to classify them as Bug/Poison or Poison/Dark.

Mark closed his Pokdex, swallowing. While that was to be expected, the Pokdex had confirmed them as poisonous, and a Dark type, even if debatable, was usually only given to Pokmon that were known to occasionally play dirty such as by attacking humans for prey.

Well, obviously they werent surrounding them to congratulate them on being the millionth people to cross the desert. Mark just wondered why they hadnt attacked yet. They were just standing still, staring at them with their fake eyes.

Charmeleon, he poked his partner, we have er, a bit of a problem.

The lizard mumbled and grudgingly opened his eyes. Upon seeing the Scorplack, he jumped to his feet and faced them, growling.

I think he has a point, May said, standing up and taking four Pokballs off her necklace. Butterfree, Skarmory, Pikachu, Larvitar!

Sandshrew, Dratini, Scyther, go! Mark shouted, releasing his Pokmon too.

Then the battle started.

As soon as the Pokmon came out of their Pokballs, the Scorplack started crawling towards them, trying to sting them. Charmeleon did pretty well frying them before they came too near; Sandshrew had a certain resistance to poison as a Ground-type but Mark ended up recalling him because Earthquake did same as nothing in this sand. Dratini surrounded himself with a Twister, preventing the Scorplack from getting near enough. Scyther was too fast for them, swooping down and cutting their tails off to make them unable to harm the others. Thankfully, Scyther and Charmeleon were too busy to even notice each other.

Mays Pokmon were doing better than Marks. Butterfree fluttered above, sending flurries of toxic spores down to put a crowd of them to sleep at a time, while her Skarmory, being absolutely immune to poison of any kind, dove down to drill its beak into the scorpions. Pikachu aimed bolts of lightning at some of the bigger ones, but Larvitar attempted to blow them away with Sandstorm. Meanwhile, the kids, protected by their Pokmon, hurriedly packed their sleeping bags.

But the Scorplack were too many. Pikachu, Dratini, Butterfree and Larvitar got exhausted after a short while and their trainers recalled them. Scyther, Charmeleon and Skarmory fought valiantly, but Mark could see Charmeleon panting between his Flamethrowers.

Then he got stung.

While Charmeleon was catching his breath, one of the Scorplack swung its tail and hit the lizards leg. He went stiff, sent a powerful blast of flames at the Scorplack and kept fighting, but clearly sweating and growing weaker by every passing moment.

**** you, stupid thing!

Mark turned around to see May kick a Scorplack away. Her ankle was bleeding and had a slightly purple hue.

You got stung? he asked, his eyes wide.

No, thats ketchup and food coloring, she replied icily.

Mark was distracted by Charmeleon letting out a weak Chaaar as he passed out. He recalled him, turning worriedly back to May as the moon and stars became their only light source. Maybe it was just the bluish-white light, but she seemed pale.

I I think Skarmory could maybe carry us to Scorpio City he knows Fly she said weakly.

Mark nodded, recalling Scyther, as Skarmory, who had heard that, landed. Both kids quickly jumped onto the birds steely back, and he took off. Mark breathed out a sigh of relief as they ascended, away from the Scorplack.

Then he discovered that May was unconscious.

-------

It wasnt that long a flight to the borders of Scorpio City. Scorpio Valley was a big valley shaped oddly similar to a scorpion, and the city was located in the tail end. It was pretty small; calling it a city wasnt really appropriate, but it was still called that because it had a Pokmon Gym.

Skarmory was getting exhausted after flying this way with two human kids on his back, and once they reached the city, he let himself glide down into the street and collapsed. Mark shot a quick look at May; she was very pale and completely limp.

He took one of the Pokballs on her necklace and recalled the fainted bird, left alone with an unconscious girl on a street in the middle of the night.

Help! he shouted into the darkness. Can somebody help me?

But nobody answered.

He looked desperately around; a deep purple-painted building stood nearby, with the letters GYM on the front of it. The street lamps lit up an empty main road; all the houses were quiet.

He turned back to May and was jumped when he saw a young man wearing a black cape kneeling down beside her, touching her forehead.

Scorplack, the man muttered and checked her pulse.

He looked quickly up at Mark, his shoulder-length silver hair flashing back.

Where did you come from? Mark asked, puzzled at his sudden appearance. The man ignored his question and instead introduced himself in a fast but very clear, soft voice:

My name is Mitch; I am the leader of the official Pokmon Gym of Scorpio City and an expert on poisons. Can you tell me how long has it been since she was stung?

Maybe ten, fifteen minutes, Mark answered. Why?

Mitch ignored his question again. How long did it take for her to pass out?

Not long, one or two minutes at the most, why?

Mitchs big, shiny, gray eyes observed him for a second; Mark got an uncomfortable feeling like he was being X-rayed.

Then you should pray for her life.

Mitch picked up the unconscious girl and ran swiftly towards the purple-colored building.

It took a bit of time for his last words to sink in, but then Mark hurried after him.

-------

He entered the Gym, panting. It split into three corridors; the left one had a sign on the wall saying TO THE BATTLE ARENA. The middle one ended in a door saying DO NOT ENTER. The right one led to another door, which was open. Mark carefully stepped through it.

The room he entered looked like an ordinary living room, with a few dark brown leather couches, a coffee table and a carpet with a navy and gold pattern on the floor. May was lying on the big sofa, but he didnt see Mitch anywhere.

Speaking of the devil, Mark thought as the young man from earlier stepped through the door behind him, not seeming surprised to see Mark there. Mark was going to apologize for walking inside like that, but Mitch just walked up to May and injected something into her arm.

Then he sat down in another couch and offered Mark a seat beside him. Hesitating, Mark sat down.

Scorplacks poison is very interesting, said Mitch out of the blue, not looking at Mark, but rather straight into the air. When it gets into your blood stream, it somehow slows down all cells it reaches. The longer it is in the body, the more everything slows down. Then finally, it all stops unless the person has gotten the antidote in time. The antidote slows down the effect of the poison, so the timing is everything. If the poison kills before the antidote has stopped it, the victim dies. If the antidote stops it too late, the victim will live, but never wake up. Otherwise, the victim will heal completely.

Is she going to die? Mark asked quietly.

Maybe, said Mitch slowly, still looking into the air rather than into Marks eyes.

How are the odds?

Bad, said Mitch simply. If she fainted in one or two minutes, it must have been a strong Scorplack. Ten or twenty percent, I guess.

Thats awfully little Mark said with a horrible knot in his stomach.

Odds are meaningless, said Mitch calmly. Imagine youre holding a hundred-faced die. I walk up to you and say, Give me ten thousand Pokdollars, throw the die and if you get hundred, Ill pay you back a million. Youd never take the offer. What are the odds youll get exactly hundred? Its very unlikely that youd be achieving anything except losing ten thousand Pokdollars. And as we all know, its just as unlikely that youll get ninety-nine, or ninety-eight. In fact, the odds for each side are so small that youd never bet on one of them. Still, you can somehow throw it, and be positive that as unlikely as it is, you will get one of them. We could repeat it with a die that has a thousand faces, or a million. What are the odds that a mass of carbon can stand up and walk of its own accord? Almost none, yet you see the proof that it happened all around you. Do not think about odds. Odds are an illusion.

Mark had never thought about it that way. He couldnt think of an answer, so he said nothing. Neither did Mitch; he just kept staring at nothing.

Does it hurt to have that poison in your body? Mark suddenly asked.

Not really, Mitch said, still like he was speaking to the air. Its not comfortable, but doesnt exactly hurt.

So, its a painless thing to die from?

Mitch smiled faintly. Those who know that are all dead, Im afraid.

How do you know what having the poison in your body feels like, then? Mark questioned.

Mitch nodded slowly. I was just a kid, having just gotten my starter, a Venonat. We went into the desert, I stayed there for a bit too long and ran into one Scorplack that was a bit early, didnt know it was dangerous and therefore didnt watch out. I got stung, I caught it, and I fainted while I was walking back to Scorpio City.

But you were alone, werent you? asked Mark, puzzled. Who saved you?

Mitch took his time answering this question; he peered at the starlit sky out of a window in the ceiling for a while, still with that faint smile on his lips.

Nobody, he finally answered. I should be dead.

Mark decided not to ask more about this.

When will we know what will happen to her?

Mitch stood up. I left a sample of her blood in the research room. It should be ready now; wait here while I go to see the results. But you might find out before me. If she moves, shes getting better. If she stops breathing, shes dead.

And he left Mark alone with May.

Oh, please, he muttered, not this! Why cant I have a normal journey without a Gym Leader giving me Mew or a madman threatening to kill me or somebody dying or deranged Pokmon or stupid nightmares?

It must be your fate to have difficulties, said a soft voice inside his head. He jerked his head upwards to find Mew floating there. The pink creatures eyes were filled with sadness.

Mew! Just who I needed! Cant you heal her?

No, answered the Legendary Pokmon. Scorplacks affiliation with the element of darkness prevents psychic powers from affecting anything having to do with them.

But if she dies, you can just resurrect her, cant you? Mark questioned.

She would merely die again, as the poison remains in her blood, said Mew.

Oh. Why are you following me? Mark mumbled.

I do not follow one person, Mew said calmly. I come when I feel that I should.

Really? asked Mark dully.

And now I feel I should leave, said Mew before disappearing in a flash of purple.

There was a reason for that feeling, at least; Mitch entered just a second later.

Good news, he said. She will most likely make it. She got the antidote in time. How do you know her, anyway?

Eh, we ended up going through the desert together, goodness knows how it was her idea, he quickly added.

You didnt get stung at all? Mitch questioned.

No, my Pokmon held them back

He suddenly realized what he had forgotten. His face went pale.

Charmeleon! He also got stung! Quick, give him some antidote

Mark took out the Pokball and sent out his unconscious lizard on the floor. Mitch bent down and examined him, then injected some of the antidote into his arm.

Will he be okay? Mark asked worriedly.

Pokmon are stronger than many people give them credit for, said Mitch with a smile. One sting from a Scorplack wont kill any decent Pokmon. Humans, however

He trailed off, but then started again.

Amazing, isnt it? Pokmon are superior to us, but were the ones who own them. And theres a reason for it. Pokmon, while quite matching our intelligence, lack one thing. It is creativity. On their own, Pokmon only use battling techniques passed down generation by generation. Taking two things we know and figuring out that we can make something new out of them, that is our specialty, and that is exactly what they cant do. This is why they seek our company in the first place. We can teach them things that seem obvious to us, but their brains have never been built to understand. Even Alakazam, with an IQ of 5000, will battle far better with a humans aid. We need each other

For a moment Mitch seemed to be in deep thought. Then he absent-mindedly picked Charmeleon up and placed him on the coffee table.

Well, now we just have to wait. Want a drink?
~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
australia
Seen January 10th, 2009
Posted September 17th, 2008
842 posts
18.9 Years
great fic (this is my first review so i hope this gose well)
so far i have noticed nothing wrong except you didnt say what kind of pokemon wild cat was (im guessing persion with long gangs or something) your introduction of new pokemon is amazing you make it sound like it was already a pokemon what do you have planed for mark and what was with garahdos (sorry dyslixic not good with spelling) when he saw suicoon
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
Nice work, this chapter makes me feel sad for May...
*whipes a tear* Keep up the good work.. Can't wait for the next chapter!!
~~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
great fic (this is my first review so i hope this gose well)
so far i have noticed nothing wrong except you didnt say what kind of pokemon wild cat was (im guessing persion with long gangs or something) your introduction of new pokemon is amazing you make it sound like it was already a pokemon what do you have planed for mark and what was with garahdos (sorry dyslixic not good with spelling) when he saw suicoon
Wild cat? You mean Fangcat, which is a made-up Pokmon... just picture a female lion with a longer, furrier tail and two enormous, bloody fangs. As it said, they're commonly associated with horror movies.
~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
To me, fangcat looks like an evolved sabor toothed tiger... is that where you got the idea?
~~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
Yes, Fangcat is a saber-toothed tiger.
~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
Whee, chapter fourteen. I think you're going to love this one...



-------
RATING

Violence: None

Gore: None

Sexuality: None

Profanity: Just a "bloody".

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




Chapter 14: Thief and Victim

Mark woke up feeling very refreshed. He scanned through his memory, but didnt remember dreaming anything at all. Well, that was relieving. The nightmare phase seemed to be over.

Had a good rest?

He jerked his head upwards to find Mitch was still sitting in the couch. Mark looked sleepily out of the window; judging from the bright sunshine, he had fallen asleep sometime in the night, despite having had some coke to keep him awake. Charmeleon stood on the coffee table, seemingly healthy, and while May was lying motionless on the sofa, her chest was rising and falling as it should.

Yeah, pretty good, Mark said, stretching.

Any dreams? asked Mitch, suddenly looking into Marks eyes. The question had to be a coincidence, but the way Mitch looked at Mark gave it some more of a meaning.

No, not that I remember, he mumbled, turning away.

Good Mitch said softly, also turning to look out of the window. Nobody said anything for a long time. Then finally, Mays eyes opened.

She blinked a few times and sat up. What place is this? she asked confusedly, looking around.

You are in the Scorpio City Gym, said Mitch. The poison in your bloodstream has been neutralized, and your body will handle cleaning it up.

Oh. She paused, observing Mitch for a second. Then she turned to Mark.

What happened after we flew away on Skarmory?

Well, Mark began, taking a deep breath, we flew over here, Skarmory crashed out of exhaustion, I recalled him for you and then Mitch, the Gym Leader, appeared out of nowhere and gave you a shot with some antidote.

Oh, May replied. After a few seconds, she turned back to Mitch. Thanks.

Its my job, said Mitch and smiled that faint smile again.

What time is it? asked May, turning towards the window. Suddenly, she froze, and then pulled Marks sleeve.

Quilava! she hissed, before suddenly dashing out through the door. Mark shot an apologetic glance at Mitch and then followed her.

-------

Taylor held his Blaziken Pokdex in his right hand, observing the Ouen map on the screen. Absent-mindedly, he sat down on a bench.

He had teleported to Scorpio City the day before and taken on the Gym Leader. His brother, Rick, had lent him the prototype Abratwo to get there. Taylor would have loved to keep it after all, it had been very impressive but Rick had always been obsessed with only giving him the best of the best. That was sometimes nice, but often irritating because Taylor wasnt as much of a perfectionist as his brother. He just wanted something decent, and would rather not wait ages to get something absolutely flawless.

Then again, it didnt matter now. He had just received the ultimate replacement.

Taylor broke into a grin as he plucked his three Pokballs off his Pokball belt and placed them beside him. He picked up one of the two Clone Balls, looking at it. Clones were strong. His first clone, Pikatwo, contained in his other Clone Ball, had never lost a battle.

Taylor sighed, shooting a quick glance at the normal Pokball. He couldnt help wondering if he should really have tricked that Quilava out of the girl. He had never even had the need to send it out. Which he was deep down thankful for, because he wasnt sure Quilava would like him too much. After all, he had broken the Agreement by taking a Pokmon from its trainer without consulting it first admittedly the girl hadnt had anything against that either, but he didnt want to risk getting scorched by Quilavas Ember.

Ah, well, now he had two clones. Maybe hed never have to send it out of its ball.

He smiled at the Clone Ball and attached it back to his belt, focusing on the Ouen map again.

-------

What are you doing? Mark yelled while trying to catch up with May.

Ricks brother! she hissed. The guy with my Quilava! Taylor, you said he was called.

What about him? asked Mark confusedly.

I saw him, of course, said May like it was the most obvious thing in the world. He sat down at that bench over there.

She pointed. At the end of the street they were running along, a boy with long, red hair was sitting on a bench, bent over something in his hands.

What are you going to do? Mark asked, puzzled, as May crouched down behind some bushes near the sidewalk.

Im going to get Quilava back, of course.

Mark watched in disbelief as she crawled towards the bench like a predator to its prey. Very slowly, she extended her hand, grabbed one of the Pokballs beside the boy and then quickly withdrew it. Mark saw her crawling back towards him.

Whoa, he said blankly. You just went and stole it?

Its not stealing if shes mine, she said coldly.

Well, technically, Mark commented, you traded her away.

But he tricked me into it, she argued. And Quilava never agreed.

You werent exactly thinking about that when you traded, were you?

Mays eyes flashed. Shes my Quilava! Professor Elm gave her to me! And I never agreed to trade her for some lousy level five lizard!

Mark felt like he had just received an Ice Punch, but just glared at her and breathed very fast.

Well, arent we going to battle Mitch? May said, still in an angry voice. Dont know about you, but Im going to get myself some Antidotes in case my Pokmon get poisoned.

Mark reluctantly followed her as she started walking firmly towards the Pokmon Market across the street.

-------

Taylor folded his Pokdex back together and clipped it to his belt, looking to his side. He started when he saw only his two Clone Balls there. He picked them up and attached them to his belt as he examined the sidewalk to see if his Pokball was there. Seeing no traces of it, he looked up. Just a short distance away, he saw a familiar girl and a boy he had never seen before with her.

He didnt know exactly what had happened, but immediately got a pretty good idea of it. He watched the two enter the Pokmon Market, and an idea formed in his head.

He grabbed his new Pokmons Clone Ball and smirked.

-------

Mark and May, after stocking up on things at the market, walked outside to be greeted by a well-known figure: one of the Officer Jennies. She wore a police uniform, had long, teal hair, and folded her arms strictly. Beside her, slightly behind, stood Taylor.

This boy tells me you stole one of his Pokballs, she said accusingly.

May turned beet red. Then suddenly she roared THAT QUILAVA IS MINE! as she jumped at Taylor in what was clearly an attempt to at least punch him if not bite him too. Officer Jenny grabbed her jacket and held her back.

Quite the temper youve got, she said shortly.

May tried to break loose, but Officer Jenny had a firm grip on her. She glared murderously at Taylor.

Also, the policewoman added thoughtfully, turning to Taylor, Quilava? Didnt you say it was a Charmeleon?

Yeah, said Taylor, slightly nervously. Mark wondered why he hadnt just said it was a Quilava; this way his story sounded a lot more suspicious.

Come with me, guys, said Officer Jenny, walking towards the police station next door and dragging Mark and May with her. Mark felt a strong burst of anger flare up in his heart; what had he done?

I didnt do anything! he shouted.

Congratulations, youve just used the oldest excuse known to mankind, said the officer sarcastically as they entered.

Inside, it was rather dark. A desk with a lit lamp on it was on the other end of the room, covered in papers. Mark wouldve looked around better, but Officer Jenny pushed him inside. Then she picked up a small device from the desk.

Your trainer license?

Trainer license? Mark was stunned of course he should know that a trainer had to get a trainer license. What had he been thinking when he set off? He had been training illegally for a while, and magically gotten away with it. One of the first thoughts that shot into his head was that the Pokmon Leagues trainer identification system had to be very flawed, since he hadnt even been making an effort to hide it.

I I dont have one, he stammered.

No license? Jenny raised her eyebrows. Your eye, please, she said to Mark. He stepped up to her and she held the tool she had picked up earlier up to his eye to scan his iris.

Mmmh, she said. Never done anything before, though so apparently you didnt get it removed but that doesnt change that youre still training without a license. Youll get away with a warning this time, but I suggest you go get a license before you get in more trouble provided, of course, that you did not steal the boys Pokmon.

Officer Jenny turned to May, who was holding forward a trainer card. Valid, said Jenny after surveying it for a few seconds. May I have your eye, please?

May allowed her eye to be scanned too, although she clearly hated it. A loud beep was heard.

You, on the other hand said Officer Jenny slowly, youre on record.

Surprise, May sneered sarcastically. Marks heart suddenly realized it had some catching up to do and started pumping like crazy.

Hmm assaulting a police officer refusing to cooperate with the police breaking and entering Officer Jenny read from the device. Mark felt sick.

The policewoman laid the tool back on the desk. When was that?

You, said May with disgust, you think a nine-year-old cant have anything to say that you dont know. You think that a nine-year-olds accusations must be based on personal grudges. You think little girls with bad tempers cant possibly be right. Something is stolen from a girl and she knows who did it, but you think her knowledge sounds too absurd and claim that the real thief will never be found. She goes on her own and takes again what is hers, and all you do is putting it on some bloody record as breaking and entering.

She jerked this all out very fast, and Mark didnt really get the whole thing, but from how it looked, somebody had stolen something from May when she was nine, she knew who it was but the police didnt believe her and just forgot about it, so she took matters into her own hands, broke in and stole what had been stolen from her again. The question was mainly whether the thing that had been stolen from her had been about as stolen as Quilava.

Interesting, said Officer Jenny simply. Tell me did you steal the boys Charmeleon?

No, May spat.

Well, well see about that, the policewoman said. Your Pokmon, please.

May handed her Pokballs to Officer Jenny.

You too, Jenny insisted, turning to Mark. He gave his Pokballs to her too. She took a Pokdex from her belt and scanned all the Pokballs, picking out two of them afterwards.

Okay, this one contains a Quilava and this one contains a Charmeleon. Which of them was stolen?

Charmeleon, Taylor said firmly.

May opened her mouth, but Officer Jenny stopped her before she said anything.

Of course, to make sure were not making a terrible mistake here, well do a check of original trainers and ID numbers on them both.

Mark suddenly realized what Taylor was up to saying that Charmeleon had been stolen while a simple ID check on Quilava would prove her as Mays, Charmeleon had originally been given to Taylor and never been registered as traded. Unofficial trades were essentially illegal, partly because that way there was no way to prove the change of trainers, as the trade would never be on official records.

No! he blurted out.

No? Why not? You obviously have something to hide, said Officer Jenny suspiciously. She pressed a button on the Pokdex.

Quilava is registered to you, it seems, said Officer Jenny to May, giving her the Pokballs back. But Charmeleon Jenny scanned the Pokball and read off the Pokdex.

Its registered to the boy who reported the theft, Taylor.

Mark looked at May. She was staring expressionlessly at him, and clearly understood who Charmeleon was now.

Officer Jenny put Charmeleons Pokball on the desk.

-------

You can have it in a minute, Jenny said to Taylor. But first, I need to record that

Taylor couldnt help feeling slightly guilty as she said that. If he was getting that Charmeleon, which the boy had thankfully evolved, however he originally got it, he didnt want to get him into any trouble, because the boy certainly hadnt done anything to him.

But luckily, he was prepared for that.

Speed her up a little bit, he thought, looking out of the window where his new Pokmon was waiting for orders, Mewtwo.

-------

Suddenly, Officer Jenny stopped in her tracks. Her eyes went all funny, reminding Mark somewhat of (he shivered a bit) Ricks Legendary clones.

Here, she said, taking the Pokball off the table. Mark stared miserably at it as she handed it to Taylor.

Please, he pleaded, youre making a mistake! That boy, Taylor, he

But Jenny ignored him completely. She then almost mechanically shoved Mark and May outside, closing the door. There was nothing more he could do.

They walked silently back towards the Gym. May had taken a funny interest in her fingernails as she held them close to her face and examined them. Mark just felt horrible.

Taylor has Charmeleon, he muttered miserably, not exactly expecting an answer.

No, said May after a moment of silence. He has Quilava. I switched the Pokballs on the desk. She opened her palm to reveal a minimized Pokball she appeared to have been clutching since she took it.

You going to take him back or something? Mark said in a horribly shaky voice.

No, she answered, handing the Pokball to him while staring in the other direction. I threw him away hes not mine

Mark took the Pokball, covered in sweat from Mays hand, and attached it back to his own belt. He knew both of them were thinking about the same thing: Officer Jennys eyes.
~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
WHOA!! That was intense!! Awsome chapter!! I think I know what happend to Officer Jenny, but I'm not going to post it... just in case i'm wrong... *shivers* Cool chapter!! Can't wait to see what they find out about Officer Jenny's eyes... OOoooohhh!!
~~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
ILCOE = I've Lost Count Of 'Em-th revision.

Which is actually the seventh.
~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
Yay, chapter 15.




-------
RATING

Violence: Some Dragonfree-style Pokmon battles. Yay.

Gore: Nothing real...

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: A "****" as usual.

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




Chapter 15: Darkness and Poison

When the two kids reached the Scorpio City Gym again, it was locked. Gyms were only supposed to be locked when the Leader was away or if some kind of a task was to be completed to collect the key, meaning that Mitch had apparently left while they were at the police station.

Why did he just leave? May hissed, clearly still upset about the whole encounter with Taylor and Officer Jenny.

Really, May, nothing says he cant leave whenever he wants, Mark said, rolling his eyes.

Well, Im going to find him, she said determinedly. Im not going to wait for him for ages.

Fine, said Mark, shrugging. Youll just bring him back here, right? Then I dont need to come. He was getting slightly skeptical about hanging around with her too much, which was why he would rather wait.

Whatever, said May, turning around and storming downtown.

Mark looked after her, not sure what he would do while she was finding Mitch. He didnt have to wonder for long.

Fancy a battle?

He quickly turned around to find a very creepy-looking boy, most likely around thirteen or fourteen. He was wrapped in a wavy, pitch-black cloak, matching his long black hair. Contrasting with that, his face was rather pale.

So? asked the boy with a smile. Mark assumed from his expression that he was just a normal Pokmon trainer, even if he dressed funnily.

Yeah, sure, Mark said, shrugging. Its not like Ive got anything better to do.

Great, the boy purred. Lets make it a one-on-one. I want to test out the Pokmon I just caught.

He picked a Pokball from somewhere under his cloak. Mark noticed that it was a black and yellow Ultra Ball; the most powerful ball apart from Master Balls. The boy held it in his hand and looked affectionately at it as if in a trance.

Challenger sends out first except for Gym battles, Mark pointed out.

Sure, said the boy, looking back at him. Precious, I choose you!

He hurled the ball forward. Mark expected something big, high-leveled and ferocious after all, the boy had wasted an Ultra Ball on it but he was surprised to see that the red orb of energy started taking shape into something tiny. He watched curiously as it faded to reveal an extremely cute, fluffy black kitten.

The boy looked at it, grinning from ear to ear with an expression of fascination. Isnt it lovely? he asked.

Mewww, the kitten meowed, and then added like in a cough, tark!

The Pokmon looked adorably at Mark with its big, yellow eyes. He couldnt help smiling. It was probably that boys favorite Pokmon, since he had wasted an Ultra Ball to catch it, named it Precious and was now looking at it with the confidence of somebody whose Magikarp had just evolved.

Go, umm Mark thought for a second. Sandshrew needed some training, and he couldnt help not feeling like hurting Precious too much. Err, Sandshrew.

As the yellow armadillo materialized a short distance from the kitten, the boy grinned even more.

Never seen Mutark before, I take it? he asked.

No, said Mark, confused.

Well, that was to be expected Mutark is rare the boy muttered, more to himself than Mark. Then his grin still widened.

Great. Then youll be surprised.

Mark didnt like the way he said that, but it was too late now.

Um, Sandshrew, try a Scratch. He considered using Earthquake, but in case the boy was just overestimating Mutarks strength, he didnt want to hurt it too much.

Sandshrew moved in to scratch the kitten. It didnt move or make any attempts to dodge or retaliate; neither did its trainer command it to. It just let out a meow when Sandshrews sharp claws sliced up the skin on its side, and as the armadillo backed away, the kitten painfully twisted its body around and started licking the scratches miserably. For a second, Mark felt sorry for it. Then he watched in amazement as it seemed to stiffen up; its eyes took an eerie, red glow, and it grew to double its original size in a few seconds. It wasnt as cute anymore; the noticeably lengthened claws and fangs probably did it.

Sandshrew was clearly startled too, as he curled up into a tight ball. The Mutark jumped at him and started rolling him around like a ball of yarn.

Then the incredible happened. The scaled sphere started emitting a bright white glow. Mutark backed away in surprise as the ball grew and got spiky. The glow faded, and the newly evolved pangolin-like Pokmon uncurled. Sandslash attempted with little success to see the brown, pointed scales on his back that formed into his spikes.

Oh, I never asked you if you wanted to evolve! Mark realized suddenly.

I dont mind, Sandslash replied. I quite like this form, actually he added thoughtfully, examining his new, much more powerful claws.

And he did something that Mark had never thought hed see him doing: he faced the Mutark and got his claws ready in attacking position.

Interesting the creepy trainer said softly.

Precious, however, didnt like this turn of events, and started hissing at Sandslash. He retaliated by slashing the Mutark with his huge claws. For a moment, the cat Pokmon backed away and licked the cuts slightly once at a safe distance; then it stiffened again and grew, and now reminded Mark more of a black Fangcat than the little kitten it had been just a minute ago.

Mark saw that obviously, this change had something to do with Mutark licking its wounds.

Sandslash, try he began, but was cut short:

Precious, Bite, the boy ordered. The Mutark leapt with amazing agility straight towards Sandslashs white underbelly, managed to push him onto his back and as he was sprawled helplessly on the ground, the cat Pokmon sank its fangs into his body. He screeched in pain.

I forfeit, said Mark quickly, recalling Sandslash to the Pokball in a beam of red light.

Nice Pokmon, said a familiar voice. Mark turned around to see that May had returned.

Did you find Mitch? he asked.

Yeah, he was just getting himself something to eat, she said, blushing slightly. I was in a bad mood earlier

Mark turned back to Precious and the boy. The Mutark was now starting to shrink rapidly, back to the cute kitten that it was at the beginning of the battle.

I like that Pokmon, May said, directing her words at the Mutarks trainer, who was now recalling it. What is it called?

Mutark, the boy replied. Its a favorite of mine too.

Native to Ouen, I assume? May asked.

Yeah, said the boy. And really rare too, he added with a hint of pride. The only way to lure it out of hiding is to have a Dark Pokmon.

Youve got more Dark types? May asked, clearly very interested.

Yep, the boy said proudly. Theyre my specialty. I only train Dark Pokmon.

That explains the cape, Mark thought.

Will a Tyranitar work? May questioned.

Should do, said the trainer.

Thanks. Im May; you? she asked.

Victor, said the boy, smiling. Im glad I could help.

Mark couldnt help thinking in horror to the moment hed have to battle May with one of those things. With his luck, his only Pokmon left would probably be Scyther or something.

Hey, lets go to the Gym, shall we? May said to Mark.

Mark shrugged and followed her towards the Gym.

Bye, May called to Victor. Can I battle Mitch first? she then asked Mark.

Whatever, he just replied. Oh I need to get Sandslash to a Pokmon Center. He looked anxiously in the direction of the Pokmon Center a short distance away.

You dont mind me starting my battle while youre there, do you? May just asked.

No, Mark answered. See you in a minute, then.

They parted, and Mark ran to the Pokmon Center. It was smaller than those of Cleanwater and Alumine; the interior was also rather simple, with a crimson tiled floor and two benches along the walls. A few people sat there; he noticed the worried expressions on two young girls faces. They had probably had a nasty encounter with some Scorplack.

He went straight to the desk and handed Sandslashs Pokball to Nurse Joy. She bowed without words and went into the back room to examine him. It wasnt long until she returned.

Ill have to keep him for the rest of today, she explained. But dont worry; he will be fine.

Thanks, Mark muttered. Now he didnt have a Ground Pokmon to use versus Mitch, but he would at least get to watch Mays battle first and see what Pokmon Mitch used, which would somewhat make up for it.

He wandered into the Gym and took the left corridor, the one with the sign that said TO THE BATTLE ARENA. He turned to the right and entered a large room which was the battle arena. May, who was at his end, was in a sticky situation, to say the least.

Her yellow rodent was tangled in a net of silky, white thread. A huge, orange, spider-like Pokmon with black markings and six legs striped in vibrant yellow and violet clicked its pincers a small distance away, watching the helpless Pikachu in the web.

Ariados, Poison Sting, said Mitch calmly.

Thunderbolt! May hissed. Pikachu started charging voltage in his cheeks as Mitchs spider Pokmon leapt into the air, turned its abdomen towards Pikachu and fired a small dart from the stinger on its backside. It hit the mouse Pokmon, and he let off a bolt of lightning in retaliation. Ariados ran to the side with surprising agility, dodging it.

May looked at Pikachu. His cheeks were sparkling weakly.

Poisoned, she muttered and plucked a Pokball from her necklace. Pikachu, return.

She paused, seemingly in doubt. Finally, she took one of the Pokballs and maximized it.

Go, Larvitar!

The small green dinosaur May had caught at the Lake of Purity materialized as she threw the ball into the arena. Larvitar looked determinedly at the spider, muttering his name.

Rock Slide! May shouted, clenching her fist. The little dinosaurs horn glowed bright white, and then rocks started firing from it into the air. They levitated there for a second.

Larvii! The rocks pummeled down towards Ariados and crushed the spider under them.

Return, Ariados, Mitch said expressionlessly, picking a new Pokball from his belt. Venomoth, you have my trust.

He hurled forward a Pokball, which exploded into a flash of red light that formed into a lavender moth-like creature with big, shiny blue eyes on its spiked head.

Larvitar, another Rock Slide, May said icily. Her Pokmon obeyed, firing another array of rocks into the air and hurling them at the moth. It narrowly avoided them.

Sleep Powder, said Mitch slowly.

No! May exclaimed as the Venomoth flapped its wings eagerly, releasing a cloud of golden dust. Larvitars eyelids started dropping as the powder engulfed him.

Dont fall asleep! May hissed through gritted teeth. Larvitars eyes snapped open, but dropped again before he lolled to the side, fast asleep.

Darn it, May said loudly, kicking the air.

Venomoth, Psybeam, said Mitch.

Venomoths eyes glowed as the Pokmon fired a multicolored beam of energy towards the little dinosaur. Being asleep, he just rolled slightly to the side.

Now, Larvitar, just WAKE UP! May hissed, but her Pokmon just lay there and slept.

Another Psybeam, Mitch ordered, and his moth Pokmons eyes took a glow again before firing another beam at Larvitar.

Return, May muttered, recalling her sleeping Pokmon and taking another Pokball from her necklace. Go, Skarmory.

Mitch nodded with a faint smile. You know what youre doing.

**** right, she replied, giving Venomoth a glare. Skarmory, Drill Peck it into oblivion!

The steel vulture gave a metallic cry in response, took off and darted towards the moth Pokmon, spinning at high speed. As he hit the Venomoth, it was thrown into the wall, but still with plenty of energy left.

Sleep Powder, Mitch said. The moth released a cloud of golden powder again.

Whirlwind, May spat. Skarmory started flapping his wings at high speed, producing a gust of strong wind which blew the powder back at Venomoth. The moth, having no eyelids, simply got a strange dazed look in its eyes as its wings flapped slower and slower. Finally, it started falling.

And now, Drill Peck it while its defenseless, May ordered. Her Skarmory dove down and nailed the sleeping moth Pokmon against the wall with his beak.

Return, Mitch said slowly, recalling his Venomoth. Beedrill, I choose you.

Out of the ball he threw came a bee-like Pokmon with two cone-shaped stingers on its forearms. It tilted its head, staring at Skarmory with red, compound eyes.

Drill Peck, said May, smirking.

Agility, Mitch countered. As Skarmory dove down to attack Beedrill, it zoomed out of the way. It then started circling the arena at amazing speed that the metallic bird could never keep up with.

All right then May said thoughtfully, try flying up somewhere in the middle of the arena.

Skarmory swooped upwards, and hovered there high above the bee Pokmon.

And now

Beedrill, Fury Attack.

SWIFT!

As Beedrill started buzzing up towards Skarmory, he released a flurry of metallic feathers that bombarded the bee on the way up. It was thrown downwards, being very light and delicate, and got pinned down by feathers.

Beedrill, return, said Mitch as May also recalled her Skarmory. Handing May a small object, he turned to Mark.

Your turn.
~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!! Nice battle description, the only thing I found wrong with this is the description of Mutark, I didn't get the full description of it and I hope you'll add one of your infamous "Extras" if you can't find a place in the fic to describe it. Overall it was yet another great chapter. I'm confused as to why Mark doesn't want to be around May so much though... Oh well, I suppose it will all be revealed in due time ^^
~~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, I'd have thought that was obvious: he senses that being with her could get him into more trouble after the thing with Taylor. And who knows, he might be right... ;)

As for Mutark, that is the full description. It's a cute little fluffy black kitten that grows when it tastes blood. There's nothing more to it.
~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
OH!! OK, I get it now!! *slaps his forehead* Stupid me... And as for Mutark... ok... its really weird pokemon...
~~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
Yay, next chapter. Clich title because the one I originally intended was too much of a spoiler.





-------
RATING

Violence: Pokmon battle, but not an exceptionally violent one this time.

Gore: None.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None.

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




Chapter 16: The Third Badge

Mark walked nervously forward as May pocketed her badge and stepped out of the way.

This battle will be a three on three, Mitch said calmly, inserting his Pokballs into a Pocket Healer. Mark noticed that Mitch had a fourth Pokball at his belt, too. No healing items of any sort may be used on a Pokmon while the battle is going on. A recalled Pokmon counts as a fainted Pokmon.

Mark nodded.

Very well, said Mitch. Let us begin.

He took a ball and threw it. The light from the sphere materialized into the yellow bee that Mitch had used earlier.

I choose Marks hand fiddled with his Pokballs. Charmeleon would definitely be the best choice, but after all, Mitch had a Pokmon that Mark hadnt seen yet, which might be powerful. The best trainers always said that you should leave your strongest Pokmon until last provided that you know it will still be the strongest then.

Mark paused. Mitchs Pokmon had all been Bug/Poison types; this meant that unless it was just a freaky coincidence, he probably only trained Pokmon that had both types.

He took out a Pokball. Beedrill werent the strongest Pokmon around, and Eevee could probably do with a bit more battling experience.

Eevee, you can do this!

Mitch nodded as the small furred creature came out of the ball. Interesting, he simply said.

Eevee, try a Quick Attack! Mark said determinedly, hoping that Eevee could bring himself to attack the Beedrill. He did; he hesitated for a bit of a second, but then leapt into the air and tackled the bee Pokmon at high speed. It was knocked backwards, but retaliated by swooping down and jabbing Eevee with the stingers on its forelegs. He staggered backwards, then blinked and faced Beedrill again with a determined Vi! His battling instincts were clearly starting to show.

Twineedle, said Mitch simply, and Beedrill dove down again, its foreleg stingers raised. Eevee seemed to freeze for a moment, but then jumped out of the way, narrowly dodging it. Beedrill swooped upwards again to avoid getting hit.

Eevee, use um, maybe Tail Whip? Mark suggested, realizing immediately afterwards that he had forgotten to sound like he knew what he was doing. Eevee didnt appear to mind; he crouched down low with his tail in the air, and started wagging it back and forward. While Beedrills glossy red compound eyes watched Eevees tail tip, he jumped up and tackled the bee again in mid-air.

Poison Sting, Mitch commanded, just as Beedrill was thrown backwards. The bee instantly obeyed, lunging at Eevee as he landed on the Gym floor and stinging him with its right foreleg. He shuddered, but countered by kicking some sand that seemed to materialize under his feet into the bee Pokmons eyes. It didnt appear to be much more than a distraction, though; a creature without eyelids had to be designed not to be bothered by sand in the eyes.

Veeee, Eevee moaned with a dazed look in his eyes. Mark realized that the Beedrills poison was starting to affect him.

Dont give up, just get one more hit in with Quick Attack, he said desperately. Eevee used his last strength to leap up and hit the bee once again. It was thrown into the wall, where it fell down, unconscious.

Good job, Eevee! Mark cheered, recalling his weak but proud Pokmon. Whats next?

With a faint smile, Mitch took out another Pokball. He threw it without words into the middle of the arena, where it released his Venomoth. It flapped its wings slowly, watching Mark with its creepy, staring eyes.

He thought about what to send out. He still wanted to save Charmeleon for the last. The best trainers never recommended training a Pokmon to become much stronger than the rest of the team, so he would rather not use Scyther. That left Gyarados. He hadnt gotten any training in the desert anyway, so he was a few levels behind.

Go, Gyarados! Mark announced, throwing the Pokball towards the pool on the left side of the arena. The sea monster materialized from the red light, apparently not feeling up for his normal roar since he just growled slightly.

Stun Spore, Venomoth, Mitch said. The moth flew over Gyarados and started flapping its wings, releasing a cloud of golden spores.

Dive, quickly! Mark blurted out. Gyarados disappeared beneath the surface of the water, and was not affected by the powder.

Psybeam, Venomoth, Mitch said as Gyarados came up again. His Pokmon fired a rainbow-colored beam of psychic energy into the monsters face. He retaliated by grabbing the moth in his mouth with a quick movement.

Psychic and then Stun Spore, Mitch ordered his Pokmon. Venomoth, still locked between Gyaradoss jaws, glowed bright blue and as the eerie aura engulfed Gyarados, he was forced to open his mouth and release the captive. As soon as Venomoth was free, it flapped its wings rapidly to send another flurry of sparkling dust at the sea monster. Some of it escaped in through his nostrils, and his long segmented body immediately stiffened, allowing more of the paralyzing powder to enter his bloodstream as he inhaled it.

Gyarados, do something! Mark cried desperately, having no idea what to do. With difficulty, the immobile monster closed his eyes and Mark saw him starting to get grayer.

Is that he gasped, just as Gyaradoss eyes snapped open and fired the same type of a bright red beam as he had used on Suicune. This time, an even more amazing effect of it was revealed; Venomoth fluttered out of the way, but the beam followed on its own accord and blasted the purple moth Pokmon across the arena. On the way, ice seemed to start layering around its wings, and it fell to the ground with a clatter, clearly frozen.

Interesting Mitch muttered. Very very interesting.

The Pokballs beam zapped Venomoth into the ball again. Mark looked at Gyarados; he was still rather grayish, and appeared very exhausted, not to mention his paralysis. He would barely last long like that.

Return, Mark said, recalling the sea monster back into his Pokball too. Guess its down to our last Pokmon, then.

Indeed, Mitch agreed, smiling. He took out a Pokball; it was the one he had not used against May.

Mark hesitated a bit, but took Charmeleons Pokball, silently hoping that his assumption that Mitchs Pokmon were all bugs was correct.

Go! Mark shouted. Both of them threw the Pokballs at the same time; Marks became the red lizard, and Mitchs formed into something smaller, with four sets of limbs, a tail and two pincers.

A Scorplack? Mark asked, staring at the shiny black scorpion. The one that didnt kill you?

Of course, said Mitch, smiling. I told you I caught him.

Is he your strongest? Mark asked nervously.

Mitch nodded. Is that your starter? he questioned back.

Yes, Mark replied with a smile. Flamethrower! he then called to his Pokmon.

Charmeleon spewed a bright spiral of flames from his mouth, but Scorplack darted to the right with surprising agility and avoided it.

Watch out for the stinger! Mark told Charmeleon quickly. Try another Flamethrower!

The lizard blasted out some more flames, which Scorplack also avoided. The scorpion then swung his tail at Charmeleon, who narrowly managed to jump out of the way.

Keep at a safe distance, Charmeleon, Mark said desperately. Dont let it come near you, and try to attack it with fire.

Mega Sting, Mitch commanded. And dodge the Flamethrowers.

Scorplack shot towards Charmeleon with his stinger raised. The lizard released more flames out of his mouth, but the scorpion leapt to the side.

Darn dodger! Mark gritted his teeth. Charmeleon growled in agreement as he ran out of the scorpions reach, slowing him down with a tongue of fire that he sent over his shoulder. Scorplack evaded it like the previous ones and then unexpectedly sped up, reached Charmeleons side and swung his tail at the lizard. The tail end stung into his arm and injected poison into his blood. He roared in pain, spitting out a ball of fire. It hit the floor just by Scorplacks legs; he jumped up and ran to the side, Charmeleon following. Mark was getting worried; Charmeleon would faint any minute now, when the poison came into effect.

But he didnt.

Mark watched the lizard shoot another Flamethrower and Scorplack running frantically to the side to avoid it. For a moment he expected Charmeleon to fall unconscious in a matter of seconds. Then, when he still didnt, something hit him.

Charmeleon! he shouted. Youve been stung before, you mustve gained an immunity to the poison! Move in for physical assault; you dont need to fear being stung!

Hearing this, the lizard leapt forward, aiming for the scorpion. Not expecting it, Scorplack made an attempt to defend himself with his pincer, but Charmeleon came down on top of him and released a powerful blast of flames directly down at the scorpions head. Scorplack let out a screech, but then fell silent. Charmeleon turned to Mark and sent him a salute, grinning. Mark smiled back.

Return, Mitch said slowly to his Pokmon, holding forward the Pokball. Nice thinking there at the end.

Mark just blushed, his smile widening as Charmeleon returned to the Pokball in a beam of red.

I confer upon you the Venom Badge, Mitch announced, holding up a small object. Mark walked up to him and took it. It resembled a silver coin like the other badges; however, this one had small circular ripples in its smooth surface.

Uh, thanks, Mark said awkwardly. Er, yeah. Guess Im off, then.

Good luck, said Mitch and smiled his faint smile. Mark nodded and ran out of the Gym; he was feeling all jumpy like he couldnt just walk.

-------

Victor looked after Mark as he ran east out of the town.

Do you know him? And the girl who was with him when he came to town?

Victor jumped. It was Mitch; he had seemingly been standing by his side without him noticing.

Sort of, yeah, he replied. I battled him, and the girl came afterwards. Why?

Mitch nodded sadly. I just have this feeling something bad will happen to them.
~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
I like this chapter...



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RATING

Violence: Some rather violent Pokmon action.

Gore: A bit.

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None.

Other: Nothing special.
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Chapter 17: The Shark and the Serpent

When Mark exited the Gym, he noticed that May wasnt there. Even as he continued down the road, he saw no traces of her. He just assumed she had continued to Aquarium City.

Aquarium City was probably the town that Mark had looked forward to seeing the most when he started his journey. It was the first and only underwater city in the Pokmon world. Covered in a gigantic glass dome, the citys oxygen came from plants specifically arranged to keep a healthy balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the air. It was first and foremost a tourist attraction; it was generally considered a dodgy place to live, mainly because the thought of living underwater with only a glass dome to protect oneself from the Gyarados and Sharpedo outside and ones life depending on some calculations about the oxygen percentage didnt appeal to many people. Nonetheless, the tourists loved it especially because it had an official Pokmon Gym.

Hey, wait!

Mark turned around. The Mutark guy, Victor, was running after him.

What?

Victor looked around. Wheres May? The girl?

She went on to Aquarium City, Mark answered. Why?

Oh, said Victor, scratching his head. Er you know Mitch?

Yeah, Mark replied, puzzled.

Do you know what they say about him?

Mark shook his head.

Well according to the rumours, hes a psychic of sorts. They say he can foresee deaths and stuff, and, uh are you going to join up with May again?

Huh? asked Mark, not sure what Victor was getting at.

I mean, will you meet her sometime? I need to er, give her some tips on catching a Mutark. His gaze darted to the sides; he was obviously a very bad liar, but Mark wasnt the type to point that out so he ignored it.

Well, Ill probably meet her at Aquarium City, but to be honest I dont know if shes going to come with me from there or anything.

Right, said Victor. Hey, will you be attending the Pokmon Festival?

What festival? Mark asked curiously.

The festival in Green Town the one they have every year based around Chaletwos arrival.

Oh I didnt know they had a festival, Mark replied, blushing slightly. He felt stupid.

Well, Im going, of course I want to see Chaletwo, hes a Dark type and she is likely to, since she doesnt seem the type to miss it, so will you?

Of course, Mark answered brightly. I love Legendary Pokmon; Id never miss that in my life.

Well meet there, then, Victor said, holding out his hand.

Sure, Mark replied, shaking it.

Good. Bye, then, said Victor, smiling as he turned back towards Scorpio City. See you.

Mark had slightly disliked him earlier, but he seemed like a nice guy after all. Now Mark knew about the Pokmon festival. He looked forward to it, especially getting to witness Chaletwos appearance. Of course, there were probably fun tournaments and such, too

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It wasnt a long way to Merville, a tiny village near the seaside. Old-fashioned houses were spread irregularly around. A lot of them seemed deserted, giving the village a glum atmosphere. A dirty shop stood just by the harbor, looking just as deserted as the empty houses but nonetheless with a big OPEN sign in the window. Above the door, it said Underwater Equipment.

Mark walked up to the wooden door and grabbed the doorknob. It was open. He stepped carefully inside.

A bearded, middle-aged man leant onto the counter, looking asleep. As soon as Mark came in, however, he sprang up and was instantly by his side.

A customer! What can I do for you? Headed to Aquarium City, are you? Then youre in the right place! Weve got everything, all 100% organic!

Er, Mark just stammered.

Youll need an H2Oxy 3000; these things allow you to breathe underwater, the clerk said, reaching for a small mask-like object on a shelf. You put it on like this, he put it on to cover his nose and mouth, then quickly took it off again as it appeared to prevent him from breathing, and it will work oxygen out of the water. Clever, isnt it?

Are you sure it... works? asked Mark skeptically. The shopkeeper shrugged. It should work.

He stuffed it into Marks arms and started searching for something else on the shelf.

Lets see... youll need an Aqua compass. It always points at Aquarium City. He showed Mark a compass which, unless Mark was very much mistaken, pointed straight west, back to Scorpio City. The guy seemed to realize that too, since he shrugged again and threw it into the garbage. Well, this spray will make you completely water-repellant. He sprayed something that smelled like cardboard all over Mark. He coughed.

Then theres the Sharpedo-ward, the shopkeeper continued eagerly, taking out a bottle containing a black, suspicious-looking liquid. If you open it in the water, it will send any Sharpedo swimming! And theres a special rock here to be able to sink easier. Im sure youll visit again, buddy? Im always ready at hand! Now, in total, this will be, uh He counted on his fingers. 9,999 Pokdollars.

What? Mark asked, nonetheless finding the guy a bit funny. Im not going to buy it all I think Ill just go with the H2Oxy-thing, and, um, do you have a Dive HM? He put the rock and the Sharpedo-ward down.

You already used the water repelling spray! the man complained.

Thats stupid, I didnt ask for it, Mark argued. The shopkeeper sighed.

All right then. He handed Mark a CD case. Your ID number?

Mark reached for his Pokdex. 0439522166, he read from the screen. The shopkeeper entered it into the computer and mumbled: Youre not getting any for the way back. Mark ignored him and walked out of the shop.

Outside, he noticed a sailor who hadnt been there before. He was a tall, muscular man and was just standing there looking blankly into the air. When Mark came out, the sailor turned around.

Hey. Kid. Battle?

Mark shrugged. If you want.

One on one, said the sailor and threw a Pokball into the harbor. The red energy materialized into a blue shark-like Pokmon; it had no tail, but a yellow star shape on its head.

Sharr, it growled.

Mark decided that Gyarados would most likely be his best bet for this; he had also not gotten to battle much lately, because pretty much only gym arenas had pools for non-amphibious Water Pokmon.

Go, Gyarados! The sea monster came out of the Pokball into the calm sea. He dove into it and seemed to enjoy the water judging from the low, purr-like growls he was producing.

Sharpedo, Crunch! ordered the sailor. The shark immediately lunged at Gyarados and sank its fangs into his white tail fin. He roared in pain and tried to shake Sharpedo off; it still held on. Gyarados slammed his tail against the harbor wall, Sharpedo still stuck on. Receiving a harsh blow, the shark let go off his tail. Blood oozed out, making the water slightly murkier. Mark bit his lip; he just hoped Gyarados wasnt too hurt.

Another Crunch, Sharpedo! the sailor shouted, and his Pokmon darted towards Gyaradoss tail again. This time, however, the monster just let the shark bite him. He waited perfectly still, obviously in pain, but didnt move.

Let him go! said the sailor desperately. Mark first wondered why; then he remembered one of the things he had managed to register in Pokmonology: Sharpedo always had to keep swimming forward so that water would flow through their gills. If they were held in place, they could suffocate

Return, said the Sailor, holding out his Pokball to recall Sharpedo. The shark disappeared in a beam of red light.

You ought to teach your Gyarados some manners, the sailor commented coldly. Thats a monster.

Sorry, Mark just muttered as he recalled Gyarados.

I could sue your pants off, you know, the sailor continued. And have your Gyarados disposed of for breaking the Agreement.

I know, said Mark miserably. He had no idea why Gyarados had tried to literally drown the Sharpedo and he had been too stunned to recall him.

But Ill let you slide this time, just because I dont have the time, the sailor said as he turned around and walked into the village again.

Mark stared blankly at nothing for a few seconds before realizing what he was supposed to be doing. He released Gyarados from his Pokball again, and took out the CD he had bought earlier.

Gyarados, youll need to learn Dive so we can get to Aquarium City, Mark explained, holding the disc forward. Gyarados touched it lightly with his forehead, and the discs deep blue color ripped loose from it and sank into his body. He shook himself slightly, and then nodded.

Okay, great, Mark said nervously. Now I need to get on your back, I guess.

Gyarados obediently swam nearer to the bank and turned his side towards Mark. He walked unsurely to the edge of the concrete, not sure exactly how to mount Gyarados. Finally, he just grabbed the dragons head tightly with his arms and somehow managed to use the plates that stuck out on either side of the first segment of armor as footing while he sat in front of the first fin.

Is this okay, Gyarados? he asked, worried that it might be uncomfortable for the sea serpent. He just nodded slightly.

All right Mark took out the H2Oxy and held it in his hand. Be ready to dive, Gyarados one, two THREE! He took a deep breath and put on the H2Oxy as Gyarados dove under the surface. Holding on for dear life, Mark felt like he was in some kind of a rollercoaster with very sub-par seats that additionally included the thrill of not knowing whether one would drown in it or not.

He was relieved to find that the H2Oxy did work; while breathing was a bit harder than on dry land, he could manage this way. The water repel-spray apparently also worked, as he didnt seem to be getting wet. Mark also discovered that it had been a mistake not to buy the Sharpedo-ward.

It was probably the smell of Gyaradoss blood in the water that attracted them; at least they looked like they were expecting some easy prey. There were around ten of those sharks like the one the sailor had, and they all stared murderously at Mark and Gyarados.

The dragon shook Mark off and darted at the Sharpedo. They scattered, but for some reason he kept on chasing one of them in particular and, to Marks great disgust, caught it. Gyarados, having locked his jaws securely around the sharks body, started shaking it vigorously until he ripped a bit of flesh apart from the body and swallowed it. Catching the slowly sinking corpse again, he took some more. Now the scene was getting shrouded in the Sharpedos blood, saving Mark from having to see any more Sharpedo innards.

It wasnt long until Gyarados appeared to have finished all that was edible of the Sharpedo, since he came swimming back to Mark like nothing had happened. Mark wanted to say something, but was unable to because they were in the water. He got uneasily on Gyaradoss back again, and they continued towards the distant light that was Aquarium City.

The Sharpedo appeared to have learned their lesson and didnt bother Mark and Gyarados further. He was fascinated by a group of cute, light blue seahorses called Horsea and the larger, more vicious Seadra leading them; the Horsea fluttered their tiny, wing-like fins and managed to swim very cutely that way, while the Seadra flapped its spiked fins slowly and gracefully, ready to defend the young ones. After the Horsea swam past, Mark noticed what looked like a swimming rock. Then he realized that it was a rock-like fish Pokmon.

Various Pokmonology lessons whirred past; then finally this Pokmons identity clunked into place. It was a Relicanth, and they were

Incredibly rare! Mark mouthed behind the H2Oxy. He prodded Gyaradoss head slightly and pointed at the ancient fish. The message was understood; Gyarados darted at the Relicanth and grabbed it by the tail. The fish, however, quickly started glowing red as it summoned some large rocks from different directions that smashed into the sea monsters head. He was knocked unconscious by the blow, and the Relicanth managed to disappear, very quickly for a Rock type.

Mark had no choice but to recall Gyarados, and now he was in trouble. This had clearly been a very powerful Relicanth to beat Gyarados in one hit and be so strangely fast. Now he had no Pokmon to Dive on, so hed have to swim all the way to Aquarium City.

He started swimming a bit, but the lights of the city never seemed to draw any nearer. He had to rest after a short while, and discovered then to his horror that the Sharpedo had noticed that Gyarados was unable to battle. Their shadows steadily grew closer

Mark was basically panicking when suddenly, what seemed at first to be another Gyarados shot forward and started fighting the sharks off. The Sharpedo quickly realized that they didnt stand a chance and disappeared.

Marks savior now turned gently around. It was not a Gyarados, but it was another sea serpent this one had a more draconic head, and a sleeker, darker body. Nothing at all could be read from the expression in its deep, black eyes.

Then it neared him, and came close to his face. It tilted its head slightly while examining him thoroughly; he hardly dared to breathe through the H2Oxy. Then, slowly and gracefully, it turned its side towards him in what was clearly a gesture for him to mount it.

The monster blinked. Mark guessed he didnt have much of a choice, whatever the Pokmons intent was; the Sharpedo could come back if he tried to swim by himself. Trembling, he wrapped his arms around the creatures scaly neck; there was something so comfortable and motherly about it that he felt safe if he only held on to it well enough

The dragon shot quickly through the water, so smoothly that Mark barely felt it. He lost all sense of time clinging on to the creatures neck, but after some amount of time, they came to a halt. The gigantic glass dome that covered Aquarium City was ahead; beautiful lights from the inside illuminated the sea next to it and just two meters away was the entrance to the tube that led inside.

Mark went off the monsters back and dragged himself exhaustedly in through the door. Suddenly he remembered that he had never heard of this Pokmon before; he quickly took his Pokdex off his belt and pointed it out at the sea serpent.

Monarking, monster Pokmon. This very rare, aquatic Pokmon is said to be somewhat magical and is highly intelligent. They said to occasionally help humans whose lives are in danger.

He slowly put the Pokdex down. The Monarking outside the glass gave him a slow nod, and then swam away. Mark lost sight of it as it blended into the color of the ocean around it.
~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
Aww, no replies. :(



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RATING

Violence: Quite a bit...

Gore: None

Sexuality: None.

Profanity: None.

Other: Nothing special, I think...
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Chapter 18: Enemies Forever

Dazed and still in shock, Mark made his way along the tube. At the end, there was a second door; in order for the water not to flood inside, Mark had to press a button that would empty the tube before entering. The water-repellant spray had gotten him there completely dry; he removed the H2Oxy from his face when the water level lowered past his head, and once the tube was dry, the glass door opened with a hiss and he walked into the city.

It was bustling with life. People were all around the main street, many with their Pokmon. Plants were at every corner. Ahead, a huge, white building with the words POKMON GYM written on it in red letters towered over the rest of the houses; it appeared to be exactly in the middle of the glass dome.

Mark was too tired to be excited. He felt like he hadnt slept for months. He dragged off towards a hotel sign, and met May just in front of the hotel

Oh, hi! she greeted him happily.

Hi, he mumbled, feeling slow.

I just won my badge, said May, breaking into a wide grin as she took a silver coin from an inner pocket in her jacket. This one had waves engraved in it.

Nice, Mark said, trying to seem interested. May frowned.

Did that idiotic shopkeeper sell you a D-press or something? Youre like a ghost.

Mmmh, Mark just replied.

Anyway, Larvitar evolved, May announced proudly, taking one of the Pokballs off her necklace. Look.

She dropped it to the ground; the red light formed into a blue cocoon-like creature. It looked at Mark with resentful eyes, then just stared straight forward with a gloomy expression. Mark wouldve been impressed, but at the moment all he could think of was bed.

Ill talk to you later, I want some sleep, he muttered.

May looked at him for a second, but then just shrugged.

You sure need it, she sighed and walked off. Mark walked sleepily in, paid absent-mindedly for a room and sluggishly walked along the corridor. He entered with a funny feeling like his eyeballs were melting, dropped into the bed and instantly drifted into deep sleep.

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When he woke up, he wasnt sure where he was, but he felt extremely good and refreshed. After a few hazy moments of rubbing his eyes and looking blankly around, he started to regain the cloudy memories of the journey to Aquarium City.

Oh, yeah he muttered. Gyarados he killed a Sharpedo

Somehow, the image didnt bother him anymore. He blinked.

Then, he had been saved by that thing. Mo Mo-something. Mona? Monarch? Monarking? Yeah, that was it. Something that was supposed to be magical and highly intelligent with a tendency to save people

Suddenly, it dawned on to him how extremely lucky he had been. About to get eaten by a bunch of Sharpedo, and then a Pokmon that loves saving everybody happens to pass!

What made it even funnier was that it wasnt even Marks usual luck at all. If it had been his luck, the Monarking wouldve passed but thought he looked too stupid to save him. Yeah, Mark convinced himself, that would definitely have been typical him.

He sighed. He hadnt even thanked the creature. If he had another similar experience on the way up to the surface, it would definitely not bother saving him again. At least he wouldnt if he was a Monarking. Hed probably be thinking: Youre being too nice, you know... why save all those pesky humans? Theyve never saved you.

Mark checked his digital watch. Seven in the morning. His stomach gurgled; he figured hed better get himself some breakfast.

-------

Mark poured cereal into his bowl and splashed some milk over it. There were a few people eating now too; May was not among them so Mark assumed that she was still sleeping. He took his time eating his breakfast and finally headed out to the Pokmon Center.

Hi, he greeted Nurse Joy, I left my Sandslash at the Pokmon Center in Scorpio City. Can you contact the nurse there and see if he has recovered?

Nurse Joy bowed and turned to the videophone behind her. She picked up the receiver, dialed the number and held it to her ear. A picture of the Nurse Joy in Scorpio City soon appeared; she looked tired and half-asleep like she had been working for most of the night.

What? she asked, rubbing her eyes.

Theres a boy here asking about his Sandslash, the Joy at Marks end answered. She stepped slightly aside; the Joy in Scorpio City peered at Mark through the screen and then seemed to remember him.

Oh, yeah, she mumbled. Yes, your Sandslash is fine. Should I send him over?

Yes, please, Mark answered, loudly enough for the receiver to pick it up. The nurse nodded and placed a Pokball under the tube of her transfer machine and pressed a button. On the screen, they could see the Pokball being sucked up into the tube; just a second later, it dropped down from the tube right in front of them.

Bye said Nurse Joy of Scorpio City with a yawn. She put the receiver back into place, and the screen went static.

The nurse replaced the receiver to turn off the videophone and handed Mark the Pokball. Have a nice day, she said, smiling warmly. He thanked her and walked outside, putting the ball back on his belt.

Next stop was the Gym. Mark walked firmly towards the big building in the center of the city. He didnt know if it was already open; if not, he could go training or something. In fact, he was almost doubtful when he found a sign on the door which clarified that it had opened at seven; on the way, while trying to convince himself that it wouldnt be so bad even if it wasnt open, he had managed to get an uneasy feeling like he wasnt at all ready to face the Gym Leader yet. Still, he shrugged; maybe it wouldnt be that bad. He opened the modern-looking glass door and stepped inside.

The Gym was round with a rather narrow brink along the walls, but two half-circle shaped pools in the middle. In the very center, the bank that separated the two pools became a circle. It took a second for Mark to realize that from above, the Gym would look like a Pokball.

Good morning, came a powerful-sounding female voice from the other end of the arena. The speaker was a woman who looked in her mid to late thirties. Her wavy, dark blue hair fell almost down to the floor, and her sapphire blue dress covered her feet completely as she walked slowly left from a door on the right side of the opposite wall.

You are here for a badge, arent you? she asked, turning around in the exact center. Her voice had some odd kind of grace to it; she spoke loudly and clearly, in a royal sort of tone.

Yeah. Mark nodded.

Good

The woman looked slightly into the air for a second, but then turned straight to Mark again. My name is Marge, and I am the Gym Leader of Aquarium City. Defeat me

She held forward a silver coin in her long fingers.

and earn the Surf Badge.

Mark just nodded.

We will battle in three rounds of two-on-two, said Marge, cracking her knuckles as she started staring into the air again. Because few trainers here have been to Hoenn, where two-on-two battles originate, I will explain to you the rules

Mark nodded again. He had heard of two-on-two battles, but obviously he had never tried one.

Both trainers send out two Pokmon at a time. The Pokmon must work together to defeat the other trainers two Pokmon.

She paused, and then went on: We will be battling in rounds here, so if one of your Pokmon faints, you do not send out a replacement. The remaining Pokmon will have to try to defeat the other Pokmon. The trainer who has the last Pokmon standing wins the round. Then all Pokmon used in that round are recalled, and must not be sent out again I assume that you have a full team of six Pokmon already, of course?

Yes, Mark answered. He bit his lip; this sounded hard.

So the battle shall

Marge took out two Pokballs from her silk belt and maximized them.

begin.

She threw the two balls into the pool on her end. Mark nervously watched the two shapes form: a light blue, catlike creature with fins around its neck, on the sides and top of the head and along the whole back, and a green and yellow frog.

Mark thought for a bit. If he remembered correctly, a lot of Water Pokmon had the Water Absorb ability, which allowed them to be healed through coming in contact with water alone. They would have to be taken down quickly. His first thought was Scyther; then he remembered that Water Pokmon often learned Ice attacks, which he would be very vulnerable against.

Oh well, he sighed, go, Gyarados and Eevee.

He almost dropped one of the balls when he maximized them, and decided hed rather just throw one ball with each hand. The Pokmon materialized, Eevee on the circle in the middle and Gyarados in the pool behind him.

Gyarados, can you use that powerful thingy? On er, Vaporeon? Mark asked hopefully. Gyarados nodded, closed his eyes and his colors started fading.

Um, Eevee, try a Quick Attack on Politoed.

Eevee instantly leapt towards the frog Pokmon. It had no means of avoiding the fast attack and was knocked slightly backwards, but had plenty of energy left. Eevee darted back, but the frog fired a jet of water from its mouth at the brown Pokmon and the pressure pushed him into the pool on Marks end. Just as he frantically tried to swim to the bank, Gyarados released the powerful red beam which shot towards the mermaid-like cat. As it tried to dive, the beam followed its fish-like tail and hit it. The Water Pokmons body stiffened up and it started to sink helplessly to the bottom.

Return, Vaporeon, Marge said hastily, allowing the red beam from her Pokball to recall her cat Pokmon. Politoed, use a Surf.

Instantly, a wave of water rose up from Marges pool and crashed towards Eevee and Gyarados. Eevee shrieked as he was soaked by it and was left unconscious; Gyarados didnt appear too hurt.

Return, Eevee, Mark said disappointedly. Umm another mega attack-thingy, Gyarados, he suggested. The sea monster again started graying; it took less time to charge the beam now, but it looked a lot less powerful this time too. Not as bright as before, it shot towards Politoed, but much to Marks surprise, Politoed didnt look too hurt by it.

Er try again? Mark said doubtfully to Gyarados. As he charged, Politoed grew healthier from absorbing the water in the pool. At the time when Gyarados fired the beam, the frog seemed to be fully healed, and the attack hurt it even less this time.

Mark felt later that he really shouldve figured that there was something wrong with repeated uses of Gyaradoss powerful attack by now, but he didnt and ordered the sea monster to try it again.

Ice Beam, said Marge to her Pokmon. While Gyarados was charging (he seemed to be getting exhausted now and taking longer time for it again), the frog shot a beam of ice crystals at him from its mouth. When it hit Gyarados, he roared in pain and seemed to lose concentration for the attack. He desperately tried again; Politoed sent another Ice Beam at him while he was trying and finally, he collapsed weakly, fainted.

Return, said Mark hopelessly. Gyarados had just done what he had told him; had that been the reason he lost?

Very well, Marge announced expressionlessly. I have claimed victory in the first round. In order to win the battle, you must win both remaining rounds.

I know, Mark replied.

Go, Feraligatr and Quagsire, Marge said. Mark cursed under his breath as her two Pokmon formed: the same kind of a big blue alligator that the Mew Hunter had possessed, and a rubbery, dopey-looking creature that mostly resembled a light blue bipedal jelly sausage with webbed feet and two rounded fins for arms. She was probably saving her best for the last meaning that Mark should probably better save Scyther for the last round.

Go, Sandslash and Dratini.

Mark realized with guilt that this was the first time that Dratini actually got to battle against a trainer, save for the battle against Mays Larvitar in the Rainbow Woods. Then he had only gotten to battle a few wild Pokmon. He was a bit neglected. But this wasnt the time to think about that.

Feraligatr, Crunch the Dratini, said Marge. Quagsire, Earthquake.

Dratini, Twister on the Quagsire, Mark said quickly. Sandslash, try to distract Feraligatr with a Slash.

Dratini spun around at top speed and whipped up a powerful whirlwind of green dragon flames that was sent towards the jelly-like creature, while Sandslash jumped up and swiped his claws across the alligators face. Feraligatr roared and blasted a jet of water at the pangolin; Sandslash quickly curled up into a ball to repel as much of it as he could as he was thrown backwards from the pressure. Just then, the Quagsire let out a loud belch of QUA-A-AG! and jumped into the air, coming down hard and sending ripples across the floor. Feraligatr was hurt by it just as much as Dratini and Sandslash, but that was damage to one of her Pokmon but both of his.

Umm Mark suddenly thought of his own variation of Marges combo. Dratini, dive into the pool! Sandslash, Earthquake!

Dratini threw himself into the water as Sandslash leapt up, producing a powerful tremor as he landed. Both Feraligatr and Quagsire were severely hurt; Dratini, being in the water, was not affected by it, just like Mark had hoped.

Dratini, try a Thunder Wave on Feraligatr. Sandslash, use another Earthquake.

Quagsire, Ice Beam on Sandslash, Marge ordered. Feraligatr, try to get rid of Dratini.

Luckily, Dratini was quicker carrying out his order. He jumped up and while in the air, his body sparkled with electricity which he sent flying at the alligator. Its muscles stiffened up, preventing it from moving as Sandslash and Quagsire both prepared their attacks. As the pangolin came down on the ground, both Feraligatr and Quagsire were hit; the alligator collapsed and Marge recalled him, but the rather weak Quagsire sent a beam of ice at Sandslash, which blasted him back a short distance and left him unconscious.

Come back, Sandslash; you did a great job, Mark complimented his Pokmon as he recalled him. Now he had only Dratini left, but Quagsire was weak

Quagsire, dive into the pool, Marge commanded calmly, and the jelly-like fish jumped into the water, starting to absorb it and grow healthier. Like to counter this turn of events, Dratini became wrapped in a white glow.

Mark watched, stunned, as his little dragon grew longer and sleeker. As the glow faded, he was revealed to have a more shaped head, a sapphire blue orb under it on his neck, and two similar orbs near the end of his tail.

Whoa. You evolved, Mark said blankly.

Gonair, the newly evolved Pokmon confirmed, turning to his opponent.

Er Wrap? Or something? Mark suggested, not sure what a Dragonair could do exactly. The dragon slithered towards Quagsire; the fish backed away and attempted an Ice Beam, but Dragonair whipped himself aside so that it crashed into the wall instead. Then, with a quick movement, he wrapped himself around Quagsires body and started squeezing hard.

Qua-a gasped the Pokmon, trying hard to keep breathing. Dragonair tightened his grip every time the fish exhaled, and after a few more seconds of strain, Quagsire fell unconscious. Dragonair loosened the hold slightly in order not to kill the amphibian; Marge silently took out a Pokball and recalled her Quagsire.

Very well, she said as Mark brightly recalled Dragonair. Now we are even. The last round will decide the winner

She smiled. Go, Lapras and Starmie!

Mark was right; they were probably her best. From her two Pokballs formed a big sea turtle like May had and a ten-armed purple starfish with a ruby set in the golden core.

He was about to take his last two Pokballs when he realized that his two Pokmon left were the rivals Scyther and Charmeleon. Just how likely were they to co-operate in a two-on-two?

Oh man, he thought to himself, how stupid can I get?

But he couldnt forfeit. He just couldnt. He had a chance of winning if Scyther and Charmeleon could just put their hate aside for one battle.

He nervously took his two last Pokballs. Go, Scyther and Charmeleon.

The mantis and the lizard formed, instantly noticed each other and exchanged some nasty glares.

Guys, Mark interrupted, this is a serious battle. Were in the Aquarium City Gym, and this is the final round of this two-on-two, which decides the winner. If you can just behave nicely this once well win this, okay?

Scyther nodded curtly and turned towards Lapras. Charmeleon snorted disdainfully and turned his attention to the starfish.

Great, Mark said cheerfully, contrasting with his true feelings. Scyther, Slash Lapras, and Charmeleon, you can try a Flamethrower.

Scyther immediately dashed forward, flying over the first pool and aiming his scythe at the Laprass neck. Charmeleon ran along the brink by the wall, and fired a blast of flames from his mouth. The starfish leapt out of the way with great agility, and Charmeleon just happened to be positioned exactly so that the flames instead scorched Scythers exoskeleton. Bathed in flames for a second, Scyther made no sound but wore an expression of great agony as he landed, torched, on the circle in the middle of the arena.

Sorry, said Charmeleon sarcastically with a broad grin on his face. Scyther leered at him, but jerked his head back in Laprass direction, as if he wanted to say, Youre not worth it.

Charmeleon started running again, this time along the path between the pools. Starmie, who had jumped into Marks pool to avoid the Flamethrower, fired a stream of water at the lizard; Charmeleon leapt out of the way, and the water instead hit Scythers back as he was about to take off. Again, Scyther turned around and glared icily at the lizard.

I thought it would help cool you down, you know, said Charmeleon in a mockingly innocent tone. Scyther ignored him and leapt forward to slash at Starmie. The starfish dived into the water so Scyther had to land again.

Charmeleons wicked grin widened as he breathed softly into his palm and then tossed a tiny but very hot fireball towards the mantis. It hit Scythers wing and burned a hole in it. The mantis whirled murderously around, not showing any signs of pain.

Oops, I sneezed, Charmeleon said, his grin still broadening. Scyther turned back to Lapras as Charmeleon snorted. Then the bug turned firmly around, glared at Charmeleon for a second and then suddenly leapt into the air and zoomed at the lizard with both of his scythes raised.

He never hit. Mark recalled them both just before Scythers blades made contact with Charmeleon. He muttered some kind of an excuse to Marge, forfeiting the battle before he scurried off to the Pokmon Center.

-------

After all his Pokmon had gotten basic healing and Scyther had been treated with a Burn Heal, Mark got his Pokballs back. He went off to a corner; he wanted to talk to Scyther and Charmeleon individually without interruptions.

He sent Charmeleon out first. The lizard seemed to know what Mark wanted to talk to him about; as soon as he had materialized, he started talking:

Did you see that, Mark? I told you hed be dangerous! He tried to kill me, for crying out loud!

And do you have the vaguest idea of why that was? Mark spat angrily, causing Charmeleons casual expression to turn more serious. You asked for it! You attacked him! He even resisted the urge to attack you back for the first two times! Whats wrong with you? He hasnt done anything to you!

No, thanks you, Charmeleon replied. There you see what he can do. One little joke, and he wants to write satanic chants with your blood. Its not safe to be around him. Just you wait; hes going to slit both of our throats sometime when were sleeping if you dont do anything about it.

Mark didnt feel like replying to that and just took out the Pokball again.

Return, he said emptily.

See ya in the afterlife, were Charmeleons last words before he was dissolved into red energy and drawn back into his Pokball.

-------
~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
Scyther, why did you attack Charmeleon?

Because he was daring me to do it throughout the whole battle, the mantis said in his usual, calm tone.

But you were resisting that urge just fine before, werent you? Mark said angrily.

Third times the charm, Scyther replied.

Why third time rather than the fourth or fifth or one-hundredth or, even better, no time at all? Mark hissed.

Charmeleon was humiliating me, Scyther hissed back. I couldnt just stand there and battle like a nice Pokmon!

Look, I just dont want two of my Pokmon fighting! Mark said loudly. Scythers calmness somehow just frustrated him.

This is none of your business, Mark, Scyther stated. Its a personal matter between Charmeleon and me. We can handle this on our own.

OF COURSE ITS SOME OF MY BUSINESS! Mark screamed. YOURE MY FREAKING POKMON!

With a lightning-quick movement, Scythers right scythe came flying towards Marks face. It stopped a centimeter or so from his nose.

Mark didnt dare to breathe. He just stared at the deadly blade that had almost killed him. After what seemed like ages, Scyther looked strangely at him and slowly lowered his scythe. As Mark caught his breath again, he fell backwards against the wall.

Im sorry, Scyther muttered. Its just a subconscious reaction

You almost gave me a heart attack, Mark mumbled in a trembling voice. Scyther turned around and then was slowly enveloped in a red glow as he recalled himself back into the Pokball. Mark was left pressing his back against the wall, sweating and shivering uncontrollably as some of the people whose attention had been caught alerted Nurse Joy.

His last conscious thought was that maybe Charmeleons theory wasnt all that far-fetched.
~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, OMMFG those chapters are sooo intense!! I LOVE THEM!!! I swear, If your story was a female, and we were both 10 years older, we'd be engaged with the wedding not too far off!! The only two little details I would like is more info about: the powerful attack that gyrados uses, and more info about the pokemon that saved mark when he was on his way to Aquarium City (hope to see them in an extra or something is all) All in all, total awsome chapters, sorry I didn't reply ASAP, haven't been on here lately since its christmas time.. Hope to see more from you soon (but don't expect it since its christmas)
~~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
You'll find out more about both of them in later chapters.
~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.

Asher

Just your ordinary evil...

Age 31
Out there. O_o;
Seen November 25th, 2008
Posted July 22nd, 2008
444 posts
18.5 Years
"About to get eaten by a bunch of Sharpedo, and then a Pokmon that loves saving everybody that happens to pass!"

No, thanks/thank(?)to you, Charmeleon replied.

I think the bolded ones were a few of your mistakes. o.o; In this whole forum, you're fanfic is the one I positively LOVE to read. ^_^; It's so deep, and not many fanfics give rivaly to two Pokemon within a team. o.o; Neither do they give the Pokemon in their story have personalities! Most just make them say, "Saur! Char" Like that. =P Great job! ^____^; Hope your other 14+ chapters are just as good.

Uhh ... who's Alan? @[email protected];
¬_¬