Neo Destiny (Tentative Title)

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 15____________________
______________THE SEVENTH CHOSEN ONE______________

Brock, Misty, May, Max, Gary, and Tracie were left in awe, once again. As they stared at Entei and Suicune, a look of wonder swept over the group. Why had Deoxys brought these two to them? Was the situation so dire that an Overseer had to intervene, or was this pre-ordained?

Gary was the first to say something. "It's a good thing we got out of the city... This would have drawn way too much attention."

He then began to examine the surroundings. A heavily forested area was where the group had been led to by Jirachi. His intent had been to retrieve the remaining Legendary Pokemon, but even HE didn't expect to find some THIS soon.

As Celebi healed Entei and Suicune, Jirachi floated up one of the trees. In the distance, it was easy to see several Team Dark Airships. They seemed to be heading toward Indego Plateu. He descended and returned to the group.

"It looks like things are getting worse..." he began. "Team Dark still wants to go ahead with this war, despite losing Asmodia... However..." He paused and looked at the group again. "The Gias doesn't seem to be among them..."

Misty spoke up. "I guess Jade couldn't go through with his plan after all... But, if he isn't leading Team Dark anymore, then who is??"

"Perhaps I can answer that question." The group turned around to see who was talking to them. Tyr stood before them with a Kirlia at her side. "Let my friend, here show you who is in charge now." Kirlia began focusing, and in no time, an image could be seen in the back of everyones' minds.

"Wait, that can't be..." Max said. "Who IS that??"

Tyr replied, "That would be Zarnon... He has taken control of Jade's precious Team Dark. And, I mean taken control, literally!! He did this by casting a spell on the one called Dorlan Crusala. Since General Crusala is now the leader, Zarnon undoubtedly ordered him to take Team Dark and conquer the Indego Plateu. What better way to start a war with the League, than take over their main headquarters, hmm???"

The image then disappeared and the group was back in the forest, both physically and mentally.

Brock spoke up. "So, Zarnon is your leader! Then that makes you our enemy..."

"I simply work for him." Tyr finished. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Tyr, Goddess of Psychic Pokemon, and first of the Triumpherant. It is a pleasure to meet all of you, even though you will unfortunately be killed right here..."

Tyr retorted, "Very perceptive..." She then proceeded to Jirachi. "Ahh! Jirachi!! How long has it been? Six thousand years? Seven thousand? I can't seem to recall... You've... not changed at all since the last time I saw you... And we were SOOOOOOO close..."

Jirachi responded, "I was foolish back then and made mistakes, but I will NEVER repeat those errors..."

The group was shocked to hear this coming from the one that led them to this point.

"Wait a minute!" Gary began. "You mean HER, and YOU were... HUH?! Dude!! That's just TOO messed up!!!"

Tyr continued. "Oh, HE was the one who insisted. I remember his EXACT words... 'How will we know, unless we observe for ourselves??'" she said. "For a time, it worked..."

Jirachi spoke up, "It might have, had I not found out about your true intentions... It was at that time I assembled the Pokemon that put you, Tiamat, Valkyrie, Zarnon, and Asmodia to rest... It was the most difficult descision I had to make..."

Brock broke in at this point. "How tragic... A war of passion... I've been rejected before, but not like that! I feel for you two!" he said, dramatically.

The rest of the group were left speechless in an awkward silence.

After a good few minutes, Tracie broke the silence. "The fact that your crimes were of passion is tragic, Tyr. But, the fact that you've joined Zarnon and Asmodia in this insane charade means that we have got to stop you!"

Tyr chuckled. "I doubt you have that much power..." she said, as she pulled out a Poke-Ball. "But, it should be entertaining..."

Tracie began to fill with rage. "I'll take you on anytime!! Let's get on with this!!!"

Tracie pulled out a Poke-Ball. Though previously a Pokemon Artist, his career change had enabled him to become very talented with Water Pokemon. "Ok, Swampert! Let's go!!" He threw the Ball, which shot out the familiar light, that took the shape of a Swampert, the third form of a Mudkipp.

The wind howled, as the two stared each other down. It was obvious that this 'Tyr' was a skilled Trainer, but exactly how skilled she was, still escaped the group.

Tyr finally threw her Poke-Ball. "Come on out, Golduck!" she said, as the familiar blue Pokemon came out.

"The evolved form of Psyduck..." was all that Misty could say.

The rest of the group could only look in awe as the battle between Trainer, and Goddess began. From a distance, a barely conscious Lugia looked on with a sense of approval.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 16____________________
_____________THE SEVENTH CHOSEN ONE______________
______________________PART 2______________________

Pikachu was finally sleeping soundly. He had seemed to be in pain for the last few hours. Even Ash had thought that Nurse Joy's prognosis was wrong.

For the fifth time since entering the ICU, Ash spoke, "I WON'T leave your side..." It was a message, or perhaps a result of the bond that the two shared. However, that same message was all that Ash would say. Even Nurse Joy thought it was a bit redundant.

"Are you hungry?" she asked, trying to change the subject.

Ash simply shook his head, and no more needed be said regarding food. To put it simply, he wasn't acting like his normal, campy self.

Without warning, he turned around and saw a man in a red suit standing in the Waiting Room. This man had short brown hair that was combed back neatly. After a few minutes, the man entered the room with Ash.

"So, this is the Pokemon that Jessie, James, and Meowth have been so obsessed in trying to capture..." he said, as he examined Pikachu, as if examining a Diamond, looking for flaws. "I can understand why they would want to give it to me..."

Ash's eyes widened. "Don't you DARE lay a hand on Pikachu, you bastard!!" he shouted, knowing full well who it is that he was shouting at.

The man examined Ash in the same way as Pikachu. "It has been years... Your mother told me that you had grown up since I left, but I never imagined that you would be as skilled of a Trainer as you are."

Ash smirked at the remark. "Am I to take it that your memories were restored as well, Giovanni?"

Giovanni chuckled at the question. "It was an interesting experience. It looks like Rui's intervention has restored ALL of our memories. Of course, that is understandable considering who she is..."

Ash was silenced by this remark. He never knew exactly how, but she was able to give him the ability to sense any Power Level in the area. From the glow in Jade's eyes, it appeared that HE was also given a similar ability.

Giovanni continued, "For the past six thousand years, she has been wandering the world, oblivious to her true nature." Giovanni paused and looked around. Nurse Joy had left the room a moment ago, so they were currently the only two in humans the ICU. He continued, "However, when Jirachi awakened recently, something happened, something I knew was impossible, but it happened anyway... Her memories came back... It was at that time her spirit was once again trapped... inside of the heart of Asmodia."

Ash was once again dumbfounded by the overflow of information. "Rui... is... Asmodia??"

Giovanni kept his somber look. "Asmodia needed a human host to come into this world, so Zarnon created an artificial being, and gave her the power of The Sight. When Asmodia was sealed six thousand years ago, Rui once again took a human form, losing her memories in the process. her memories were thusly, locked inside of one of the Pokemon that sealed Asmodia, Jirachi! It was then pre-ordained that in order for Asmodia to walk the Earth again, Jirachi's seal would have to be broken. In essence, Team Dark released Jirachi, not Asmodia."

Ash was confused by the story. "But if that's the case, then why does Jirachi awaken every thousand years?!"

Giovanni grinned. "The seal becomes weakened every thousand years. Jirachi's awakening serves to strengthen the seal, just as it did at the Millenium Festival. However, something unexpected happened. The Master Key reacted to the seal, which could only mean that it was within five feet of the seal. Team Dark took advantage of this and destroyed the seal manually, which was easy after the Key weakened it."

Ash paused for a brief moment. "But, What is this 'Master Key'?" he asked.

Giovanni chuckled once again. "Come on! You don't know? You have it on you right now!"

Ash's eyes widened, and his face had suddenly become pale. His journey through Johto, had been based partially on a simple event that he couldn't have explained. But, at that moment, he finally realized the truth. "The GS Ball is the Master Key!!" he stated.

Giovanni smiled. "Your memory is astounding. The GS Ball weakened the seal on the Festival grounds. But in doing so, it triggered a greater miracle..." He stopped and looked at Pikachu, once again. "It created another Legendary Pokemon."

Ash's jaw dropped at this statement. Could he be telling the truth? Or was he lying? Somehow, beyond the fasade of the leader of Team Rocket, Ash felt that Giovanni was telling the truth.

Giovanni finally looked at Ash. "It is true what Jade said, you know. I am your father, and you are my son. Nothing can change that. It is also true that I have made many mistakes in my life, most of which I am not proud of. However, your birth was no mistake, and I couldn't be prouder of it. I only hope that you can forgive me someday..." With that, Giovanni left the room, and was out of sight in no time.

Ash looked on at Pikachu with a sense of accomplishment. "I... forgive you..." was all he said, as a tear rolled down his cheek.

Tracie's Swampert was looking worse for wear. The constant barrage of Psybeams were beginning to take their toll on the Water Pokemon. Tyr simply laughed at the situation.

"You know, it doesn't have to be THIS difficult." she said with a grin. "You could just tap into the power of one of the Legendary Pokemon. After all, Golduck and Kirlia are the only two Pokemon that I have."

Tracie scowled at the remark. "I'll defeat you with the Pokemon that I raised!!" he stated. "Ok Swampert. Agility!"

As he said this, Swampert began moving faster until he was a mere blur. Tracie grinned.

"Now, tackle Golduck, and follow up with Water Gun!" he finished. As Swampert got near the target, it losed its eyes. Suddenly Swampert was behind Golduck.

"Now!" Tracie shouted. As Swampert went for the tackle, Golduck backhanded him, sending him into a tree.

Swampert had been knocked unconscious. Tracie quickly recalled his Pokemon and reached for another Poke-Ball. It was then that the entire group heard some rustling noises nearby.

Tracie was the first to notice Lugia's head emerge from the foilage. Tiamat glared at the sight that beheld the group. Lugia seemed about to collapse as he staggered toward Tracie. "Please..." he managed to utter. "Allow me... to represent you..." he said as he found his way to the battlefield.

It was then that Tracie could see everything that Lugia could see, his pain, his surroundings, everything. "Am I... a Chosen One?" he murmered.

Without warning, Golduck launched a Psybeam, just as Lugia launched an Ice Beam, creating a cloud of frost. In an instant, the cloud had dissipated and Golduck was standing frozen solid.

Tyr scowled and nodded to Kirlia. "Fine. Let's see what you can really do..." she said, as she recalled Golduck. After another nod, Kirlia commenced to attack.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 17____________________
_____________THE SEVENTH CHOSEN ONE______________
______________________PART 3______________________

Kirlia proceeded to speed herself up, as Lugia took to the air, hovering just above the battlefield. It was then that Tracie realized the obvious.

"Wait a second!" he said. "This won't work here." He began to eye the densly forested area. "Why don't we move this fight to an open field? Won't that make for a better battle?"

Tyr smiled at this. "Of course! We can move to a more open area."

With that, the entire group walked until they came to a large clearing. It was still small for Lugia, but much bigger and considerably more roomy than the last area.

Lugia nodded in approval. Not only did this give him more room to move, it also allowed a brief time to regain some of his strength. Tracie definitely knew what he was doing.

"OK!" Tracie said. "Shall we resume the fight?"

Lugia and Tyr nodded in approval, as if they, themselves were rivals. With that gesture, the fight resumed.

Like before, Kirlia began to speed herself up, as Lugia hovered above the field. Tyr simply watched, allowing the Pokemon to do what she saw fit.

Tracie did the same, knowing that Lugia needed no instruction. Without warning, both Pokemon came at each other with a surprising force, given the size difference. Tracie had to brace himself to keep from falling over. The two auras of energy were literally beginning to overwhelm the rest of the group.

Misty was the first to say something. "What power... Is this the true potential of Legendary Pokemon?"

Brock responded. "Not quite."

Max jumped in, "What do you mean?"

Gary watched the show with a profound interest. "They're testing each other. Neither of them is sure how powerful the other is, so they're gauging their opposing auras. It's possible that this battle might be decided by one single attack."

Tyr began to become irritated at the lag in the fight. "Come on, Lugia! What are you waiting for?! Let's see some of that 'Legendary' power that everyone whispers about!!"

As the stand-off continued, Celebi had found his way to Moltres. At once, he began circling the Fire Pokemon in the all-familiar fashion.

Lugia finally spoke. "Well, I guess we should continue." Kirlia nodded, and the fight resumed.

Kirlia sped herself up once again, as Lugia took to the skies. This time, he was far higher than the previous little scuffle. With the exception of Tracie and Tyr, who were on the edge of the battlefield, everyone had retreated into the forest, where Moltres and Celebi were.

Lugia then proceeded to dive-bomb Kirlia, as she began to focus. Tracie knew exactly what was coming next...

"Future Sight..." Tracie whispered, as Kirlia was now above Lugia. Her hands were now cupped, as a black ball began to form between them. Tracie was stunned. "How can she know Shadow Ball?!" he said as he stared at Tyr, who continued to smile.

Lugia had anticipated a rear attack, however and turned his head, sending an Ice Beam at Kirlia just as she launched her attack. Both attacks struck their respective targets. Lugia landed and struggled to stay up, as Kirlia slammed into the ground. One attack, just as Gary had thought...

Tyr recalled Kirlia and began to clap. "I'm impressed..." she said. "I didn't expect you to beat my Pokemon so quickly... It is truly a pity that I have to destroy you..." Lugia looked utterly exhausted, as Tyr began to walk toward him. "You forgot to take into account one thing about me when you decided to challenge my power. I am the Goddess of Psychic Pokemon, which means that I am a Pokemon, myself!!"

It was then that her true form was revealed. She resembled an angelic figure with black wings, and silver hair. Her golden skin pulsated with an energy similar to Asmodia's.

"I am the true form of Tyr." she said. "In this fully transformed state, you are no longer a challenge to me. Why don't we finish this, now... WHAT?!"

Tyr's eyes widened as Lugia was covered in an aura of immense power. "I agree." Lugia said. "It's high-time to finish this..."

As the two Pokemon faced each other, Jirachi looked on with a certain sense of satisfaction. "Let's see if you can handle a True Legendary Pokemon!" Jirachi stated, as the two lunged at each other, creating a force that caused the ground to buckle underneath them.

Tyr's eyes glowed, as she attempted to use a Psychic move on Lugia. Tracie immediately knew that it was Confusion.

Lugia seemed to grin, as he shot a strange beam out of his mouth.

"Hyper Beam..." Brock said from the trees. "That's the most powerful known attack!"

Tyr attempted to get out of the way, but the proximity of the attack left insufficient time to do so. The full force of the blast hit her.

"You can't do this!" she shouted. "I am a Goddess!!!" Within the next instant, Tyr dissolved along with the Beam.

Tracie howled with delight. "Alright!!! Great job, Lugia!!"

The rest of the group emerged from the forest, along with Celebi and the fully healed Moltres.

Brock looked at the spot where Tyr last stood. "You... vaporized her!" was all he could say in response to the display.

Tracie responded, "Did you think I was going to lose, or something?"

Misty hugged Tracie, to Brock's dismay. "Of course not, you big lug!"

Brock only sighed. "What does HE have that I don't?..."

At this, the entire group began laughing.

Jirachi finally spoke. "We won a major victory here, but the war is far from over." he said, looking in the direction of Indego Plateau. "I think we should help out the Elites in Indego, next."

Gary nodded. "I agree. They probably have an entire legion of Team Dark troops on their doorstep by now!"

May was the next to speak. "Why don't we show these fools that nobody messes with the League and gets away with it!"

The entire group cheered, and began making their way southwest to Indego Plateau, with a new-found sense of confidence.

 

[SBaby]

Hey everyone. SBaby here. A forewarning before I continue on with the story. This is the failsafe point for youngsters. Up until now, the story has been pretty tame and safe at a PG rating.

However, from this point forward, things are going to start getting considerably more intense, and thulsy, more violent. The language will stay relatively the same, though. I strongly urge the little ones out there to steer clear from the rest of the Fan Fic. You have been warned.

As for those of you brave ones that stick with me, I salute you! Without further delay, I bring you the next part of Pokemon: Neo Destiny! Yo Joe!!... (Too cliche...) Thundercats HOOOOOOOOOOO!!!... (Nah, already been done...)

I got it! In case I don't live through this Fic, "The Only Thing Constant is Change Itself", "When you Risk Nothing, You Risk Everything Which is Also Worth a Thousand Words", and "Please Do Not Have an Evil Robot Secretly Take My Place After I'm Dead."-(tribute to seanbaby.com, the inspiration for my Web Name. Rock our faces to the end of the EARTH!!!)

____________________CHAPTER 18____________________
___________________SEEDS OF WAR___________________

Ash peered out the open window of the ICU, as if an obsession had taken over. "Pikachu..." he said. His pokemon had been sleeping for two full days now, and he was obviously worried. Nurse Joy simply shook her head in pity, thinking that the teenager was becoming hysterical, but he had remained ever calm in the midst of all that had happened since the battle with Asmodia.

As the 17-year-old stared at Pikachu, he smiled. "I know you can feel it. It's just like when I knew you needed help all those years ago. Remember when we first met? You were as hot-tempered as I was, thinking that nothing could hurt you. I remember the first time you fought. It must have been fifty Spearow."

Nurse Joy's eyes widened in disbelief. How could they take on THAT many Spearow? Even with his strength against Flyers, Pikachu could NEVER defeat such a large number of Pokemon, especially considering how stubborn they are. And yet, she knew somehow... She knew that it had actually happened.

Ash recalled how Pikachu, blood-covered, jumped right into the middle of the flock, and used his Thunderbolt. Despite the pain from each Peck Attack, he wouldn't let them get near Ash.

"You have been through alot... Alot more than I've ever given you credit for... Despite it all, you've remained so gentle... I guess the same could be said for me, but..." Ash paused and once again stared out the window. The sun had almost set and the streetlights were already beginning to turn on.

Nurse Joy snuck out of the room, trying not to disturb Ash, but still listened in on the one-sided conversation. "Poor things..." was all she could whisper.

Ash continued while looking out the window again. "Just once, I wish I could fight alongside you, instead of simply giving you orders from the back... Some of what Jade said is right, you know. It shouldn't simply be up to the Pokemon to answer the call every time something bad happens... We should shoulder some of the burden, as well... If only... If only we were stronger..." At this time, tears began rolling down his cheeks. "If only there was a way for Humans and Pokemon to fight together..."

Nurse Joy couldn't explain it, but she felt a sense of calm watching the two, almost as if she were a mother and they were her children. "Hmm... I guess, all Nurse Joys feel this way about their patients... It's as if we were destined to do what we do by some ancient force..." That's exactly how she felt at that moment. She knew it. The bond that Ash and Pikachu shared was a bond that ALL Pokemon and Humans were supposed to share. Just watching the two, Nurse Joy felt more complete. "Well, and why not?" was all she said as she continued watching the two, until Ash finally fell asleep next to Pikachu. She proceeded into the ICU and covered Ash with a blanket. She then stared at Pikachu. For the first time, he was smiling. She smiled back and nodded in approval, as she left the two alone.

From the opposite window, Jessie, James and Meowth could also see what had transpired. The three had a look of shame on their faces. Meowth whispered, "Ya know, right now I feel lowa' 'den a Muk..."

James spoke next. "What the heck have we been doing all these years??" He began to remember how they used to capture Pikachu, and get 'blasted off' each time.

Jessie then broke the silence. "Wait! What if we help the twerps for a change?!"

James and Meowth were utterly surprised to hear this coming from Jessie. "Are you feeling alright?" they said in sync.

Jessie grinned heroically. "I feel great! There HAS to be a way that we can help them! It would go against my nature, but maybe this was supposed to happen as well!"

James then thought of the irony of the situation. "Team Rocket helping others, instead of stealing Pokemon??"

Jessie interrupted. "Not Team Rocket! Team Light!!"

James thought for a second. "We're gonna need new costumes..." he said with a sigh.

"This is definitely much faster!" Tracie said, as Lugia flew over the vast forest. "At this rate, we should be able to beat Team Dark to the League Headquarters!"

They had traveled for a full day on foot, which was plenty of time for Lugia to fully regain his strength. As they flew over Victory Road, Airships could be seen in the distance.

Brock looked on in shock. "How did they get here so fast?!" he said. "They must have some sort of special engines that enable them to travel faster than conventional Airships."

Jirachi broke in. "We should be ok, as long as we don't stop! They're STILL moving slower than us! At this rate, we should be able to get there with an hour to spare!"

Indego Plateau had always been famous for their turn-around Leagues. Even in the traditional lull after each Tournament, the League Capital still saw frequent tourists and crowds, and this day was no exception. However, unlike most days, this one would see more League Officers patrolling the streets than ever before. Even Lance didn't expect there to be this much of a ruckus.

"All of Team Dark, attacking the League Headquarters... I'll say this." he said, looking at the sky. "They know what they're doing."

The white-haired girl had returned from patrolling the Central District. "It seems like there isn't any sign of civil disobedience."

Lance turned toward her. "That's actually a good thing today, Kyra. It looks like nobody wants to hamper our efforts here... Where's Roan and Chez??" As he said this, he looked around, once again.

Kyra responded. "Roan is in the Headquarters, and Chezni is scouting the perimeter. It is good that the Super Nova was stationed here." she said looking toward the Headquarters. The building resembled a massive Stadium, with the Platinum Airship floating above. "We will undoubtedly need it here..."

Lance looked out toward Victory Road, again. "Something's coming..." A small figure could be seen in the distance. It appeared to be flying directly toward the city.

After about fifteen minutes, the figure could be made out as Lugia. "Hail!" the massive Pokemon shouted, as he proceeded to land inside the city.

Gary, Max, May, Misty, Brock, and Tracie stepped onto the ground. The sight of the rest of the group created a great deal of commotion among the citizens and Officers.

Gary was the first to speak. "Jirachi was wrong!" Jirachi bowed his head in shame, as Gary continued. "We actually have about a half day to prepare. Team Dark seems to have stopped for awhile to pick up some supplies, or something. However, they're back en route to this city."

Brock looked at Lance. "Are you in charge here?" Lance nodded, as Brock continued. "In less than a day, Indego Plateau is going to become a warzone. I strongly suggest getting all citizens without Pokemon to a safe shelter. All citizens with Pokemon, should be sent to the rear lines..."

Lance knew that these people could be trusted. "You're right... You're right..." he said. "Kyra, do as he says. We can't afford to take ANY risks in the coming battle. Team Dark will NOT take prisoners." Kyra nodded and proceeded to do as Lance ordered.

Lance then turned to the group. "What about you people?"

Gary grinned. "We came to help... all of us!"

Jirachi floated to Lance. "If we pool our power, we WILL overcome this obstacle. I promise!"

MewTwo looked out to Victory Road. "Don't be afraid... Our friends have heard our plea for help and are on their way... Behold!!!"

Lance, Gary, and the others looked out to the Road. The sight that beheld them was impossible to describe. Thousands of Pokemon of every type imaginable could be seen emerging from the forest, and flying in the skies. All of them, were heading for Indego Plateau. At the head, was Groudon, Kyogre, and Rayquaza.

"Guys..." May began. "I think things are beginning to look up..."

The group stared in awe at the literal ocean of Pokemon that were approaching the city.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 19_____________________
_______________THE BATTLE OF INDEGO________________

Nurse Joy entered the ICU. Her day began early, as she was concerned for Ash and Pikachu. Ash had remained in the room ever since his Pokemon had gotten out of the Critical Status. However, he was looking out the window once again.

"You're up early." she said, examining the clock on the far wall. It read 6:05 a.m. "Want some breakfast?"

Ash seemed calm, yet uneasy. "See that?" he said. Nurse Joy came over and looked out the window. The view of the distant Indego Plateau was nothing more than a mere shadow of hills from Saffron City.

Ash continued. "Everything is going to be decided this day. Victory, or defeat... Life or death..."

Nurse Joy was beginning to feel uneasy hearing him say this out of the blue. "What are you talking about?" she said, while continuing to look out the window.

Ash simply looked at her and smiled. "Don't worry... Everything is going to be alright..." was all he said, as he looked out the window once again.

A batallion of Airships could be seen from the walls of the fortified Indego Plateau. They approached at a creeping pace, as the walls were now lined with Pokemon. Behind the barricaded doors that sealed off the main entrance, a legion of Fighting Pokemon stood in wait, like a well-disciplined army.

In the air above the city, Pidgey, Taillow, and various other Flyers hovered in wait. The sight was truly magnificent, despite the terrible ordeal that awaited the City. It was as if Fate was on the side of the League, and this break was much-needed, considering that the entire Pokemon League rested on the outcome of this battle.

Lance, Kyra, Chezni, and Roan had boarded the Super Nova over an hour ago, and were preparing the main weapons for the upcoming battle. The crew acted hastily, and efficiently as always, and the Airship was already fully armed.

MewTwo and Jirachi headed the group on the forward walls of the City, while Lugia, Moltres, Zapdos, Articuno, Latios, Latias, Rayquaza, Kyogre, and Celebi led the Flyers in the sky. It would be up to those two groups to prevent the City from being breached by the Airships.

Entei, Suicune, and Groudon headed the Fighters behind the walls. They would be the absolute Front Lines, should the City be breached.

The rear lines, which included the Civilian Trainers, Gary, Misty, Brock, Max, May, and Tracie, were led by Mew. Their duty was to protect the Headquarters, should the other three Lines fail.

The City was quiet, with a sense of unease. The suspense was more than enough to cause the most disciplined of the League Officers to panic, but there was a sense of ease as well. But, perhaps it was simply the proverbial 'calm before the storm'...

Jirachi looked onto the Road with a sense of concern. They were more than close enough to attack, yet they didn't... Were they waiting for us to make the first move, he wondered. In an instant, his question was answered.

"INCOMING!!!" one of the League Officers shouted. As if like an army of Archers simultaneously firing their bows, every Airship in the front fired their beams in synchronous fashion.

MewTwo realized what needed to be done, and formed a Psychic Barrier in the area around him. Seeing this, every other Psychic Pokemon on the wall did the same, and the entire front wall was protected by the Barrier.

The beams and the barrier met with an unparalleled force that could be heard for miles. A few Psychics could be seen fainting from exhaustion, but the Barrier successfully blocked the attack, despite this.

It was the Flyers' turn. Lugia began forming a Hyper Beam, as did the others who were able. As if commanded to fire, the Flying Pokemon released their attacks in sync. Hundreds of Hyper Beams headed toward the Airships. Despite the shields, the Beams were able to penetrate a few hulls, and two of the massive Flying Machines could be seen losing altitude, eventually crashing into the ground in the distance.

Tracie looked on with satisfaction. "Nice shot, Lugia!!!" he yelled. Lugia turned his head and nodded, as if to accept an award.

As he turned his head to look back, he saw a large blast of light, just before it hit him. The force of the blast sent Lugia into a house. Tracie could only stare at the mangled Pokemon. A gaping hole had been created in Lugia's chest, and burns covered the barely recognizable form of the once majestic creature.

The entire group looked in disbelief. Asmodia held an opened hand in the direction of where Lugia once was. "One down." was all he said, in response to his own handiwork. With that, he flew directly at the Psychics. As he did this, he held out both of his hands, as glowing red balls formed. He proceeded to launch the Balls in succession, reforming each, as he launched the opposite one. Despite the Barriers, the Psychics couldn't block the oncoming attacks. Clouds of blood and red flames were easy to spot, as hundreds of Pokemon fell to the barrage of attacks.

MewTwo and Jirachi proceeded to protect the surrounding Pokemon, as it seemed that Asmodia had no interest in the two... for the moment, at least. It was then that Asmodia looked directly at MewTwo.

"Latias is next. Are you going to protect her???" he asked. MewTwo needed no further urgings. He flew at Asmodia with a velocity that rivaled Pikachu. Upon collision, it was apparent that Asmodia was damaged. He clutched his side, at least seeming to be injured. "My turn..." was all he said, as he pointed at MewTwo. "Here's a classic." MewTwo attempted to move, but was unable. "Bang."

Gary monitored the scuffle between Asmodia and MewTwo. It was at that moment that the color on his face changed. "NOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" he screamed, but to no avail.

A small beam passed through MewTwo, as he plunged into the ground near Gary. Mew flew directly to the injured Pokemon. "Mew! Mew, mew, mew!!" she said. Tears began to well up in her eyes.

MewTwo looked at Mew. "Don't... cry for me... I... am a part... of you... and always shall be..."

Gary began shaking. "Stop talking you fool..."

MewTwo looked at Gary and seemed to smile. "Hmm... hmm hmm... You... fool... Isn't that... my line??........" As he finished, he laid his head on the ground and closed his eyes. At this, Mew finally broke down.

Gary stared at the Pokemon. "This isn't right..." he said, as tears began rolling down his cheeks. "Why do Pokemon and Humans have to suffer like this?!!!" he screamed.

Pikachu seemed to be sleeping with a sense of unease. As Ash looked on, his eyes widened. Without warning, Pikachu's eyes were open. Nurse Joy immediately turned off the Needle Light above the ICU door.

Ash looked at Pikachu and smiled. "Are we ready?"

"Pikaa!" Pikachu shouted. With that, Ash picked up the Pokemon and headed to the Lobby.

He turned toward Nurse Joy once more. "Thanks for everything." he said.

The Nurse nodded. "Not a problem. You just go out there and do what you need to do!" she stated, as Ash nodded.

With that, Ash proceeded to a phone. "Pikachu... Yeah..." Pikachu nodded as Ash continued. "You're looking better than ever... Whoa!" Ash felt the new surge of power coursing through Pikachu. "I can't believe how strong you are!! Yet, you're so calm..."

"Pika pika!" Pikachu responded.

Ash nodded. "Yeah, we'll get him..." Ash said as he turned toward the direction of the battle. "I know that I've been out for awhile guys, but I'll make it up to you, I swear! There'll be no more suffering for anybody!!" As he finished, he turned back to the phone and turned it on. "Don't worry. I'm on my way!"

A picture of Professor Oak could be seen on the monitor. "Ash! How have you been?" he asked. It was then that he could see Pikachu. "PIKACHU?! What the heck happened?! Did he Evolve?! I've never seen that type of Evolution before!"

Ash shook his head. "No. He didn't Evolve. I don't have time to explain. Do you have my Poke-Balls?"

Professor Oak nodded. "Yes! Do you need to switch Pokemon?"

Ash responded right away. "Yes." He looked in the direction of the battle once again.

After a moment, he looked back. "I need you to send me Ho-Oh!"

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 20____________________
_______________THE BATTLE OF INDEGO_______________
______________________PART 2______________________

Asmodia hovered above the City, as if waiting for something. As he did so, he eyed the Garrison. About half of the Pokemon on the wall were either dead, or unable to fight.

Despite the losses, the defenses were still holding very well. None of the Airships had yet been able to penetrate the walls, and each attack would create an opening for a reprisal by the flyers, costing Team Dark 2 or 3 Ships in the process.

Zarnon monitored the battle from the Bridge of the Anxiety, his own personal Airship. At his side was General Crusala, and Gaspar, while Daos was in the Hangar, as usual.

Zarnon gave a malicious grin at the battle. "Time to heat things up... Ehe hee hee hee hee hee!!" he said, as he turned on the comm. "Zarnon to Daos! Launch the Flame Brigade!"

In the Hangar, Daos grinned at the remark. "Flame Brigade, Launch!" In no time at all, hundreds of Charizards were airborne.

Jirachi's eyes widened at the sight. "Charizards incoming! Prepare frontal defenses!"

The Flyers attacked the batallion with all of their might, but the sheer number of Charizards were impossible to deter. As several were felled from the attacks, the rest managed to make it to the walls.

Jirachi seemed lost in thought, as the Pokemon on the walls desperately tried to hold off the Charizards. Despite several Pokemon around him falling, he seemed to wander around in a daze. It was then that he floated into the air without warning.

Max noticed a familiar sight at this time. Jirachi's Third Eye had opened. As the Pokemon began to glow brighter, the battlefield seemed to slow down. Suddenly, a bright light shone from Jirachi, blinding everyone in the vicinity.

Gary winced at the sight. "What's going on?!" he said.

"He is using his Celestial Powers." Max said. "It's Doom Desire..."

As Max finished, a beam shot out of Jirachi's chest, where the Third Eye was. The entire garrison stared in awe, as the beam cut a path through the armada of Airships. Had it been any more to the left, the Anxiety would have been hit. Despite this, half of the Airships in the armada had been disentegrated from the attack.

After the display, Jirachi collapsed. He landed in the middle of the City, as the recoil from the attack had pushed him back.

Max ran to the Pokemon, just as the Third Eye had closed again. "It's ok. You don't have to do any more..." he said, as he cradled Jirachi.

Gary shouted at the Flyers. "NOW!!!" With that, a barrage of Hyper Beams was launched once again. This time, several Airships fell.

Misty became confused at the sight that suddenly beheld her, as the Pokemon on the wall suddenly began running from the left side. It took a minute for her to figure out why, as an Airship crashed through the wall. Pokemon on the ground ran for safety, but a few were caught and crushed under the massive Ship.

"We have a breach!" Entei said, as the Airship cleared the newly created hole in the wall. It screeched to a halt in the middle area of the City. In no time, the Fighters had the hole guarded.

Lance looked on from the Super Nova. A man in his early 20s was standing next to him. He had long blue hair and wore what seemed to be a white uniform. Next to him was an individual of similar age. He stood 6'0'' and wore what resembled an oriental suit of armor that feudal Samurai used to wear.

Lance looked at the blue-haired individual. "Well, should we join the party, Chez?"

Chezni nodded. "I GUESS it can't be helped... Commander Yugi's gonna kill us..." As he finished, he looked at the armored individual. "Roan. Prepare the U-Cannons. We're going to show these 'Team Dark' goons a little piece of Starlance!!"

Roan nodded, and ran toward the back of the Airship. Chezni sat down in the chair in the center. "I guess it doesn't matter..." he said. "Like it or not, we're stuck on this world for now..." he grinned, as he continued to stare toward the battle. "We might as well make the most of our power!"

Lance grinned. "Now, THAT'S the Chez I know! Let's rock!!!"

May looked in the air as the Super Nova began climbing in altitude. "Umm... Max!!"

Max saw May pointing up, and suddenly got a dumbfounded look on his face. "What's happening to the Super Nova?!" he said. The massive Airship seemed to be taking on an entirely different shape.

The front now came to two points that expanded up to the middle, at an angle. Massive wings now protruded from the Ship, which no longer seemed to have the appearance of an Airship. It seemed to look more like something that the group had seen in sci-fi space movies.

A booming voice suddenly echoed from the massive 'Airship'. "This is Lance of the Elite Four! Zarnon, you are in violation of Federation Article 129: Assault on a Nova Ship! You have also violated Article 54: Illegal use of Mind Control KI Attacks! You will surrender immediately, or we will have no choice, but to use deadly force!"

The entire group was shocked at this altimatum. Max was the first to speak up. "What the heck is a Federation Article??" The League Officers seemed to be as confused as Max was.

From the Anxiety, Zarnon looked on with a new interest in the Super Nova. "Elite Four... What, oh what... are you hiding??? Ehee hee hee hee hee hee hee hee!!!"

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 21____________________
________________THE BATTLE OF INDEGO______________
______________________PART 3______________________

Charizards began to fill the sky in the frontal section of the City. Despite this, the Flyers that were on the defensive line seemed to be standing down. In an instant, it became obvious why.

The Super Nova fired an immense beam directly at the Team Dark Airships. Even Asmodia was forced to evade an attack of this calibur. Despite the retort of beams from the Airships, the Super Nova's attack sliced through the entire armada like it wasn't even there. In the end, only a few Ships remained.

The group was left in a state of awe after this display.

"Who ARE these people?" Tracie said, still eying Lugia. "Nobody has THAT much firepower..."

In the sky, Asmodia seemed to take the attack as an invitation. He immediately headed directly for the Super Nova. As he got there, the Ship began moving out of the City.

"Stand and fight, you cowards!!" Asmodia screamed, but the Ship was already fleeing faster than Asmodia could keep up. "How can they move THAT fast?! Dammit!!"

Without the need for orders, the Charizards were already making their way back to the Anxiety, which was somehow still intact. It soon became obvious that Asmodia was the only one left on the battlefield.

"You may have retained Indego, but I will decide when I want to leave, not YOU!!" As Asmodia finished, he pointed his hand out toward the Fighters. It was then that Max and the others knew that those Pokemon were dead. Forming the familiar Ball of Light in his hand, Asmodia concentrated, as it grew. After it reached twice the size of the one he fired at Lugia, he grinned. Entei and Suicune were the only ones that hadn't gotten out of the way, as they were waiting for the others to move.

Asmodia looked at Entei, and simply said, "Bye!", releasing the attack. The impact sent Fighting Pokemon and Flying Pokemon in the vicinity back from the force of the blast. The group could only look in horror, fearing the worst. It was then that Asmodia's expression changed.

Entei and Suicune weren't at Ground Zero of the explosion. They weren't in the area at all, and there was no blood.

"What the..." Asmodia began, but once he looked toward the Headquarters, his question was answered. "YOU!!" was all that he could say.

Ho-Oh hovered above Gary and the rest of the group. On him were Ash and Pikachu. Entei and Suicune were safe on the ground.

Gary was the first to say something. "Ash!! How.... How do you do it?!"

May was next. "You're late!!"

Ash looked at the group, as Ho-Oh landed. He immediately got off with Pikachu. "Hi guys," was all he said.

Asmodia looked dumbfounded, as it seemed like everyone was ignoring him. Despite this, he continued to watch the conversation. Behind him, the remnants of the Team Dark Airships could be seen withdrawing; they were now far outnumbered, and had decided to cut their losses.

MewTwo had regained consciousness once again. "Hmm... I guess we can... let you handle it now..., just like always..."

Ash walked past Asmodia, over to MewTwo. "Hi there... Sorry for being so late... Here..." he said, handing MewTwo a bottle. "Super-Potion..."

MewTwo drank the liquid, and his wound slowly closed up. "You always seem to come through somehow," he said, in response to Ash's gesture, "though this is the first time you've had to help ME out..."

Ash then proceeded to the mangled Lugia. "Hey there..." he began. "You really did great... You and the Flying Pokemon did a heck of a number to Team Dark. Don't worry..." he said as he motioned to Celebi. "Celebi should still be able to help you..."

As he finished, Celebi flew down and started the familiar flying ritual that he did with the rest of the Pokemon in the Center.

With that, Ash walked back to the group. "I want everyone to recall their Pokemon." he began. "It would be best if I took care of things from here."

Max gave a confused look, while the others withdrew the Pokemon from the front lines. The survivors of the battle had already begun returning to the forest and the horizon. "Wait!" he began. "Won't you need our help?? This Pokemon is ridiculously strong!!" May nodded at this remark.

Ash simply winked at Max and May. "I'm fine! Trust me!" was all he said, as he proceeded to the middle of the City, where Asmodia waited. May couldn't stop herself from blushing.

Asmodia glared at Ash, as he stopped. "So, the Pokemon Master has come to save the day?!"

Ash glared back. "Here's the deal. You leave everyone else out of this. Any problems you had with the others... You can take them up with ME now! Are we in agreement?"

Asmodia nodded. "Then, shall we continue from where we left off??"

Ash nodded. "Yes, that's fine. Ho-Oh!"

Ho-Oh looked in the direction of the pre-fight. "Yeah?" he said.

Ash responded. "I want you to get everyone to safety. Just get them out of the City; that'll be enough..."

Ho-Oh stared in confusion. "You're joking, right? This... THING is, what, 500 times stronger than Pikachu, and you STILL want to fight him single-handedly?!"

Ash retained his composure at this. "You have to trust me. I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't think that Pikachu could handle Asmodia..." he said.

Finally, Ho-Oh cooperated and, with the other Pokemon, began removing the civilians, and the rest of the group from the City. Soon, it was just Ash, Pikachu, and Asmodia.

"Asmodia!" Ash said. "I know you're far stronger this time than before!" Asmodia only grinned as Ash continued. "But, so are WE!!"

With that, Pikachu began generating an immense aura of energy. Even the people on the outskirts of the City could clearly see what was about to transpire.

"This is it..." MewTwo said. "This is the beginning of the war that will decide the fate of the world..."

The rest of the group looked on as the battle between Ash and Asmodia began.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 22____________________
___________________INDEGO'S FATE___________________

Ash and Asmodia stared each other down, as if two cowboys in a showdown. Asmodia began grinning, as the sun started setting in the distance. A feeling of nostalgia began to sweep the onlookers.

May stared back with anticipation. "This is like when Ash and you had that battle, huh?" she said to Gary.

"Yeah..." Gary replied. "I think we've ALL experienced this feeling at some point..."

Ho-Oh hovered above the group, which also consisted of the remaining League Officers. "Are they gonna begin, or WHAT?!" he said impatiently. It was obvious that he wanted a shot at Asmodia.

Without warning, Pikachu charged toward Asmodia, who was now on the ground. "That's right..." Ash said. "Start off nice and easy..."

Asmodia had anticipated a move like this. He immediately took to the air in response, and to the dismay of Gary and the other onlookers.

"How is Pikachu gonna hit him while he's up THERE?!" Max said. In an instant, his question was answered.

The aura around Pikachu seemed to lift him up, and he was suddenly floating in midair. Without warning, the white Pokemon shot toward Asmodia like a bullet out of a gun. Even MewTwo had trouble keeping up with his speed.

"WHAT?!" Asmodia said. Suddenly, he flew back and slammed into one of the remaining houses.

The entire group looked in disbelief, as Pikachu simply hovered over the wreckage. "Did we just see what we thought we saw??" Brock said , as he stared in awe.

Lugia, fully healed looked on at the battle. "I think Pikachu actually managed to damage Asmodia..."

Without warning, the wreckage erupted in a flash. Everyone in the area had to squint at the light. Following the flash, Asmodia was standing on the ground, in a small crater. His expression changed to a scowl.

Ash seemed impressed by the display. "Man, I'll give him this, he's really determined..."

Asmodia glared at Pikachu. "That was very impressive. I didn't think someone like you would be able to damage me..." He then proceeded toward Ash. "However, how will you do without your Trainer??"

As Asmodia held out his hand, a blur appeared in front of him. In an instant, the figure of Pikachu could be made out. "How is it possible?!" Asmodia shouted. "You're just a lowly Basic Pokemon! You CAN'T be this powerful!!"

Ash closed his eyes. "You're wrong..." he said calmly. "Pikachu isn't an ordinary Pokemon..." Ash took a deep breath and opened his eyes. "Pikachu is your worst nightmare!!!"

As Ash finished, the fur on Pikachu began to slowly raise. "Now Pikachu!!" Ash said. "Giga Beam Attack!!!!"

Still up in the air, Pikachu put both his front paws forward. "Piiii" he began. "Kaaaaa" As he was doing this, a brilliant light began forming between his two paws. "CHUUUUUUU!!!!"

A massive beam hit Asmodia with a tremendous force. Despite his attempt to block it, he was pushed back into the front wall. The group on the outside could see cracks appearing where Asmodia had hit the wall. Suddenly, the Pokemon and the beam erupted through the wall. After a moment, Asmodia finally rolled off of the beam.

"...." Asmodia was left speechless to the display of power. His body had burns all over it, and a line of purple blood protruded from the corner of his mouth. "This isn't over..." he said, as he flew off in the direction that the remnants of Team Dark left in.

After a moment, applause could be heard from the spectators, as Ash and Pikachu came out through the hole that Asmodia made.

May immediately ran to Ash and hugged him. Brock imitatingly attempted to hug Misty. Misty simply sidestepped, as Brock fell to the ground.

"Nice try..." she said.

Ash looked at the crowd. "This battle was a victory. But this is NOT the end of the war... Asmodia and Zarnon are still a major threat to the world. Until we stop them, we can't rest."

Gary stepped forward. "You're right, Ash. We should try to track their main base down, and take the battle to the enemy for a change..."

Ash nodded. "Yes. Until then, I need everyone to help rebuild the damage from this battle. Also, try to recruit as many Trainers as you can. When the time is right, ALL of us need to be ready."

With that, the Officers and civilians returned to the city and began repairing the damage from the battle.

Ash looked to the rest of the group. "Well, I think we should start looking for their base."

"Pika!!" Pikachu shouted.

Misty broke in. "But where should we start? We've ALREADY searched the entire Kanto Region."

Ash responded. "I guess we could try the Johto Region. After all, we've only been there for a moment since this whole thing began. Maybe we'll find something there."

The rest of the group nodded in agreement, and climbed aboard Lugia and Ho-Oh. "Ok. But next time, I get to have a crack at Asmodia." Ho-Oh said.

Ash nodded in concession. "OK! When we find Asmodia's base, you will get a shot at him..." he said, as the group flew off on Lugia and Ho-Oh, with the rest of the Legendary Pokemon following closely.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 23____________________
_________________AN INNER STRUGGLE________________

Asmodia flew over the forest that connected Victory Road to the Indego Caverns. Looking down, he saw various Pokemon flying and walking, in what seemed to be a somber manner. He only grinned at this.

"Hmph." he smirked. "Maybe I should pay the survivors a visit."

The moon could be seen hovering over the mountains in the distance. Asmodia's injuries had already healed fully, and nobody would have guessed that Pikachu could do as much damage to him as was done. This, in turn, disgusted him. How could a Basic Electric Pokemon use the attacks that only Legendary Pokemon should be able to wield?

As he landed, a group of Swellow scowled at the sight. Their squawking seemed to amuse Asmodia. "I see... Yes, you're right..." he said with a grin. "I killed your friends! Why, you ask??? Because it is my purpose, and the purpose of ALL Pokemon... to fight, and die to the superior breeds... It was... simply their time..."

Asmodia approached a lone Taillow. As he got closer, the Flyer seemed to take a defensive stance. "YOU want to fight ME?!" he said with a chuckle. "Come on! You really think you'll be able to even HIT me?! Huh??"

As Asmodia approached the Pokemon, he noticed two tiny Taillow chicks behind the adult. He stopped approaching. "I see. There to protect our kids, are we? I DO admire that... to a degree..." As he finished, he formed a Red Ball in his right hand, and held it forward. "You realize that with one simple motion, I could destroy you and your entire family??" Despite the threat, the stubborn Taillow wouldn't budge.

Several Swellow had gathered in front of Asmodia. He seemed to almost take a step backward at this. "Why are you protecting her?! Isn't it the STRONG who survive?!" he said, as he glared at the group. Despite the obvious sense of fear, they refused to move.

"Very well!" he said with a scowl. "If you won't move, you can JOIN HER!!!" With that, he raised his hand into the air, and began to levitate himself. "Ha ha ha ha ha!!!! Let's see how BRAVE you all are after you start dropping!!!" The group of Swellow and the lone Taillow family still refused to budge, despite the show of power.

"Why don't you RUN?!" he screamed. "RUN, DAMMIT!!!! WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU ALL?! DO ANY OF YOU CARE IF YOU DIE?!!!!!!!"

Finally, Asmodia landed on the ground and withdrew the attack. "What... is wrong with me?! Why can't I kill them?! AAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!" As he finished, he flew off at top speed.

Within his feeling of rage, Asmodia began to feel afraid. "What is happening to me?!" he shouted, as he continued flying. "What... Am I....?!" It was then that Asmodia grabbed his chest.

"What is inside me?!" he screamed. "I feel it! That is why! Something is inside me... No... How is it possible?! How is SHE suppressing my power?! My... My... No..."

"What's wrong?" he suddenly said. "You took me as a host, and now you have to live with both my power, and personality..." Asmodia became enraged at what seemed to be his own remarks. "Shut up!! You don't control me!! I control myself!! And now, I'll prove it!!!!"

As he finished, he began generating an aura of power around his body. "If you are posessing me, then I have no choice, but to exorcise you!!!" he grinned, as he began chanting. "Ezu alas uttke LI... Bound once, bound no more... No... Stop it!! If you seperate us, you'll... With the power of the ancisnts, I cast you out!!! AAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!"

As Asmodia finished, he closed his eyes, as a part of his energy seemed to have been thrown toward Victory Road. When he opened his eyes, he grinned. "I am now... in control..."

As he flew off toward the distance, a girl stood up on Victory road. Her red hair seemed to reflect in the moonlight, and she semed to be dressed in a seraphic garb. "No... This can't be happening... Asmodia... You have no clue what it is that you have done..."

With that, she ran toward the forest. "I have to find Raikou..."

Lugia and Ho-Oh headed the group with the Moltres, Zapdos, Articuno, Latios, and Latias following behind. Max looked back at the Kanto Region, which was almost out of sight.

"I hope that Groudon, Rayquaza, and Kyogre can handle Asmodia if he shows up there again..." he said.

Ash turned from Ho-Oh and simply grinned. "Don't worry! If my hunch is right, Asmodia is going to have bigger things to worry about than trying to attack Indego again!"

Gary broke into the conversation. "Yeah, but something else is bugging me. What's the deal with the Elite Four?! They REALLY seemed to be hiding something!"

Ash replied, "Definitely, but that will have to wait. Right now, we have more immediate problems."

The entire group nodded, as the Pokemon headed towards Johto. In the distance, the shadow of Deoxys could be seen following them. "I must make sure that I am right..." he said, as he headed toward Johto, right behind the rest of the group.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 24____________________
_______________MESSENGER OF THE DEAD_____________

The Johto Region was famous for its lush forests and dense jungles, almost to the point where people would call it a paradise. As Lugia, Ho-Oh, and the rest of the group approached the enormous green landmass, it became apparent that there was still at least one Region that had remained untouched in this turmoil.

Professor Ivy looked out of her lab window, nearly fainting at the sight of the small armada of massive Legendary Birds that were making their way toward New Bark Town. As far as she remembered, the only one that her lab had photos for was Ho-Oh, so this, in turn, prompted her to get her Camcorder.

Seeing Ash, Misty, Brock, Max, May, Tracie, and Gary disembark from the Pokemon, she simply shook her head. "Why am I not surprised?" Ivy said, as she walked toward the group.

Ash simply looked around and nodded. "Ok. It doesn't seem that Zarnon is here, so that either means that his base isn't here, or he's doing his best to hide the fact that it is..."

The sight of Professor Ivy immediately caught the attention of Brock, as he was now walking toward her. He seemed to stop about 5 feet from where she was standing.

Ivy seemed to be as stunned to see him as he was seeing her. Even the rest of the group felt a bit uncomfortable seeing the awkward silence that the two were displaying, especially given the obvious feelings they shared for each other. One could say that Brock was seriously acting out of character.

Finally, Professor Ivy broke the silence. "It's been a long time. What brings you all back to the Johto Region??"

May decided not to be rude. "Um, we are looking for somebody..."

Ivy immediately knew what she was referring to. "You were looking for Zarnon's Castle, right??"

Ash simply nodded. "Yes. We were wondering if anybody saw any Team Dark ships docked at any large buildings in this region?"

Ivy simply shook her head. "We haven't even SEEN Zarnon or any of his goons in this area. Sorry..."

Brock finally managed to untwist his tongue and get some words out. "So, there hasn't been ANY activity in this region?"

Ivy smiled and replied. "Absolutely none..."

Brock grinned a cutesy grin. "Are you suuure??"

Ivy replied in a soft voice, much softer than normal. "Yes. I'm positive..."

It became obvious to everyone that the two were playing a love game. Ash turned and pretended not to notice that anything was going on. His years of experience and getting 'counseled' by Misty and May had finally paid off. The rest of the group, in turn, did the same.

As Brock and Ivy edged closer to kiss, a flash could be seen in the distance. It was as if on cue that one of the townspeople ran toward the group. Both Brock and Ivy rolled their eyes. Their love escapades seemed to ALWAYS get interrupted in some sort of fashion, and this was no exception. The group ran to the edge of Town to see what the commotion was.

A woman in a Red Robe was commanding a relatively large group of Ghost Pokemon. Haunters and Gengars could be seen in the forest that met the edge of Town. They seemed to be flushing out the various Pokemon. Groups of Bellossoms, Chikorita, and Pidgeotto could be seen running in all directions.

The woman pointed a spear at a few stray Chikorita, and they seemed to stop running.

She turned to the rather large group of onlookers that included Ash and the gang. "They'll make excellent soldiers." was all she said, as a flash was produced from the spear. Immediately, the Chikorita fell on their sides and stopped moving.

MewTwo looked in horror at the truth. "They're...dead..." was all he could say.

Ash looked at the woman in disgust. "Who are you to do this to innocent Pokemon?!"

The woman chuckled at the remark. "Who are YOU to question a Goddess?! You are nothing but mere bugs to us! How dare you ask ME for answers that you would NEVER be able to comprehend even if I told you!"

Brock scowled at the remark. "If that's the way you want it, that's fine! But, I still can't let you go around killing Pokemon! What name do you go by?!"

As Brock finished, the woman seemed more inclined to answer the question, as if the wording was what mattered. "I am Valkyrie, Goddess of Ghost Pokemon!" As she finished speaking, the Chikorita that were formerly dead suddenly changed shape. They took the form of three Misdreavous.

The entire crowd, minus Brock and the gang, took a step back in fear of the display. Two people in the back could be seen running from the sight of what just happened.

Brock simply got out a Poke-Ball. "Why don't we settle this like civilized individuals? A Pokemon Battle??"

Valkyrie seemed to take this statement as an invitation. "Sure. I'll do that! If you win, I'll return these Pokemon to their rightful forms! If I win, I get yours!! Deal?"

Brock turned toward Celebi, who seemed to give a slight nod. Turning back, he nodded to Valkyrie. "Ok. It's a deal." With that, Brock threw the Poke-Ball, as Onix came out.

Valkyrie's eyes widened in interest. She didn't have any of those yet, and this battle would enable her to see what Ghost Pokemon formed from them. With no further urge wasted, she pulled out a purple Poke-Ball. "Three on three?" she said.

Brock nodded at the remark. "That's fine with me!"

With that, Valkyrie threw out her first Poke-Ball, from which emerged a Gengar. As the two stared each other down, the sun once again reached its mid-point. This battle would not only determine the fate of Brock's Pokemon, but the fate of Johto as well...

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 25____________________
_______________LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS_______________

Gengar and Onix seemed to be staring each other down, as the various Ghost Types and Grass Types looked on. At the gate of Town, the crowd of people increased in size. Almost everyone from the town was there, including Officer Jenny and Professor Ivy.

Brock simply remained calm and collective, as Valkyrie began edging closer to the battlefirld. Onix began swaying from side to side, typical of a snake that is getting ready to strike.

Ash looked on with Mew in his arms and Pikachu at his side. "Wow. He's really improved Onix..." Ash said. "I bet they're using that technique that I used against Broly..." As he said that, he recalled the battle against Broly, where Ash had to drag the fight out long enough to find a good opening to strike. It was a close call, but he had managed to pull it off. This situation would find itself in a similar predicament if Ash was right.

Without warning, Onix launched at Gengar. The attack came so fast that the Ghost got grazed as he dodged it. Valkyrie looked on in amazement. "Wow... Onix will DEFINITELY make a great undead warrior..." she said as the battle began to pick up.

Brock simply seemed to nod or jerk his head to signal an attack, so the various attacks from Onix would come without warning. Even Ash couldn't do this with his Pokemon. It was definitely a sight to see. A nod preluded another Tackle. This one connected fully, knocking Gengar back about 20 feet.

Gengar seemed to be forming a Shadow Ball in one of his hands. Valkyrie imitatingly nodded, as the Pokemon released its attack. Onix slithered away, but due to his size, was unable to avoid touching the Ball. Screaming in pain, Onix simply collapsed. Brock knew the truth. He was down one Pokemon. Recalling it, he pulled out another Poke-Ball.

"I'm impressed." he said. "I really took you for granted, but now it's on!! Go, Aerodactyl!!" Everyone was shocked to hear these words, but sure enough, that is what Pokemon emerged from the Ball.

Immediately, the Flyer swooped at Gengar with a force that could only be described as pure speed. The impact sent the Ghost into one of the trees lining the entrance of the Town. Despite the effort to get up, Gengar fainted from the sudden hit.

Valkyrie recalled it, looking back at Brock. "This is fun!" she said. "Ok Misdreavous! You're up!" Immediately, she sent out one of the three Misdreavous that used to be a Chikorita. "Can you do it? Huh?? Can you hurt innocent Pokemon?? Ho ho ho!! I'm going to enjoy watching you squirm..."

Brock looked back in disgust from the display. The rest of the crowd was giving similar expressions. Ash stepped forward in response to this showing. "You can't use Pokemon that you haven't caught!!" he yelled.

Valkyrie simply gave a grin at this. "Really?" she began. "I think they WANT to fight in my name..." At this, the three Misdreavous' nodded in approval to the battle. "See? They like me!" Valkyrie said, giggling.

Brock gritted his teeth in anger. "Fine..." he said. "Let's get this over with... I expect you to keep your end of the bargain when I win, though..."

Valkyrie began laughing at this statement. "Ok." she said, as Misdreavous floated onto the field. "But, I have no intention of losing to a mere bug, like yourself..."

Ho-Oh looked on in anticipation. Ash simply sighed at the obvious eagerness of the Legendary Pokemon. "I know you want to fight. But, this is HIS battle, not ours. Besides... He'll win... I guarantee it..." As Ash finished, Aerodactyl and Misdreavous began sizing each other up.

In the distance, a four-legged Pokemon looked on. Dominately yellow, his white face had a blue X over the mouth and he seemed to almost have more than one tail. Next to him, a familiar red-headed girl stood, as of waiting for the battle to play itself out. "They must hurry..." she said. "There isn't much time..."

After a few minutes, Aerodactyl and Misdreavous both seemed to give a slight nod. Immediately following this, they launched at each other, and the battle resumed. Brock and Valkyrie both looked in anticipation, waiting for a winner to emerge...

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 26____________________
_______________LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS_______________
______________________PART 2______________________

Misdreavous seemed to hover in front of Aerodactyl. Brock and Valkyrie were both focused on the battle at hand, and didn't notice a red-headed girl emerge from the brush on the side of the battlefield.

Ash was the first to say anything. "Rui! How are things??"

Rui simply nodded to this. "I wish I could say good, but I'd be lying..." At this point, Raikou could be seen at her side.

Gary's eyes widened. "The Legendary Raikou... You found him..."

Without warning, Aerodactyl shot toward Misdreavous. The collision knocked both Pokemon back about ten yards. "Aerodactyl! Hang in there!" Brock said. Fortunately, the large Pokemon was undamaged. But so was Misdreavous. It looked as if it suffered no damage from that direct hit.

"Ha ha ha ha! Do you understand now, boy?" Valkyrie said. Brock simply scowled at her. "Nothing you do will affect my Pokemon. They are infused with my own energy, rendering them immortal! Now Misdreavous! Shadow Ball!" she said, as Misdreavous launched a purple ball of energy. After a cry of pain, Aerodactyl collapsed.

After recalling it, Brock brought out another Poke-Ball. "This is it..." he said. "I have to win here... or else..." A light green hand was suddenly on the Ball. Brock looked up to see Celebi. Ash grinned at this sight.

"Yes..." Ash said. "Use Celebi. Do it..."

Brock stared back at Celebi. "But, you can't fight... You'll..."

"No he won't..." Ash said. "You have to trust your Pokemon. Just like you have trusted them all this time... You know this is the right choice."

Brock smiled. "He's right..." Brock looked at Celebi again. "I have to trust ALL of my Pokemon... Even you..." With that, he glared at Valkyrie. "Valkyrie! You mercilessly kill Pokemon and trap them in your spells, and even use them against us... Well, that all ends here!! Celebi! Let's do it!" With that, Celebi entered the battle.

Ash looked intently at the battle. "Yes! That was the best possible decision he could've made..." Rui nodded at this.

Valkyrie simply laughed at this turnout. "You think a little vegetable is going to stop ME?! That would be interesting to see..."

Brock simply shook his head. "You're wrong... We WILL stop you. NOW!" Without warning, Brock's body began to glow. Even Ash and Rui were impressed. "That's..." Ash began.

Brock looked at Celebi. "I know ONE way we can win this... Let's do it!" With that, he threw out Aerocactyl's Poke-Ball. "Now! Celebi and Aerodactyl! Fuse together!!" Immediately, both Pokemon began glowing.

Valkyrie scowled at this turn of events. "That can't be! How do YOU know about fusion?! That's impossible to do!!! They're incompatible!!" Valkyrie actually took a step back at this, and for the first time in the fight, began to tremble.

The creature that emerged from the fusion stood twice the size of Aerodactyl, and had the familiar antennae of Celebi. It was silver in color and had shining gold eyes. Though slender and with Celebi's wings, it was enormous.

Brock simply looked at the creature that was now glowing with a golden aura. "Celera..." he said, as he continued looking, as if possessed.

Ash looked at the Pokemon. "It's a Clestial..."

Gary got his PokeDex out. "Let's see..."

The PokeDex beeped a few times. "Error... Error... This Pokemon is not in the UPD... Error... Error..." Gary simply stared in awe at the possible new discovery.

May responded, "That's about the coolest thing I've ever seen..."

Misty was the next to say anything. "Pokemon fusing with each other... Now, this is way past weird..."

Brock simply gave one command. "Celera! Celestial Fist!!" The Pokemon cooperated and its fist began glowing with the familiar golden aura. It slammed into Misdreavous, sending it through a group of trees. It was unconscious.

Valkyrie simply scowled at this. "You can't do this..." she said. "You are mortals! Only the Gods have this much power!!! What... What are you??"

Brock simply looked back at Valkyrie. "You should know by now... Shouldn't you???" he said as he grinned. His eyes suddenly began glowing with the same golden light as Celera.

 

[SBaby]

____________________CHAPTER 27____________________
_______________THE DARK SIDE OF LIGHT______________

Brock stared at Valkyrie, as if possessed by some unknown force. The Ghost Pokemon seemed to be shaking in fear from the display of power. Noticing this, Ash's face was suddenly swept with a concerned look.

"Something's wrong..." Ash said. "This isn't Brock..."

Rui looked at Brock, who was now completely engulfed in the same aura as Celera. "What is this..." she said. "This isn't what a Celestial is supposed to do..."

Brock retained the grin, which now seemed to almost be malevolant in nature. "What's wrong?" Brock seemed to say. A new voice could be heard echoing from within his original voice. "Are you afraid? What of? Of ME?? Ha ha ha ha ha ha!! How rich! You are afraid of me? Well, well... Let's take this up a level!"

With that, Brock extended his arms to the left and right. Two blasts suddenly erupted from his arms. In an instantaneous flash, the forest on either side of Brock was reduced to mere ashes. "This is GREAT!" Brock said. "I had no idea that this kind of power existed inside of me!!" He turned to face Ash. "What do you think now? I am once again the most powerful Pokemon Trainer in the world!!!"

Ash's eyes suddenly widened. "You can't be... Magnus!!!" Ash recalled all too well what had transpired in the Orre Region. The one known as Magnus had found the orb known as the Master Key. It was the very same orb that Ash now possessed, which had the ability to transfer the powers of one individual into another. They called it... the GS Ball.

Brock stared at the group with a sheer expression of hatred. "I'm suprised you remember." he said. "It has been over five years since that incident. We have both grown since then... in our own ways..."

Misty finally realized what was going on. "You mean, Magnus wasn't destroyed?" she said, now trembling. "But... That's impossible... Ash and I BOTH saw you get crushed by the pillar... How did you..."

Brock simply laughed at the remark. "You should know full well, Ash!"

Ash looked at his pocket which was now giving off a faint glow. "No... Your soul was... stored in the GS Ball?!"

"Brilliant as always..." Brock said with a laugh. He then looked toward the sky. The sun was setting behind the mountains, creating a reddish-orange color above the horizon. "Before my body was crushed under the collapsing pillar, I used a Spell... Magic Jar! Trapping my soul in the GS Ball. I was originally going to wait until I could find a host to control from my new home, but an unexpected event freed me from confinement..."

Ash looked at his pocket once again. "The GS Ball..." he said. "It was glowing in the Pokemon Center in Saffron City... That released you..."

Brock stared back at Ash. Slowly, he walked over to Pikachu. "You truly ARE a Pokemon Master." he said with a grin. "I see... Pikachu is INDEED special... That would explain his sudden display of power just before my Tower collapsed... Now I don't feel so bad about losing to you..."

Valkyrie had finally regained her composure. "We're in a BATTLE, here! Why don't you act like it?"

Brock proceeded back to the newly enlarged battlefield. "So sorry..." he said, now staring at Celera. "I no longer need you." he said, waving his arm. The two Pokemon were suddenly unfused.

Brock and Valkyrie continued to stare each other down, as if in a shootout, waiting for the Draw command. Ash and the rest of the onlookers all had looks of concern on their faces.

Without warning, Brock seemed to launch directly at Valkyrie. The punch that followed was enough to send her through a lone tree. She immediately regained her balance and simply scowled at Brock's handiwork.

"It doesn't matter who wins this one..." Rui said. "We've still lost here..."

The rest of the group could only watch the battle play out. They had no choice but to wait for a winner to emerge.

The blows came faster now, almost too fast to see. The two nearly invisible figures were only further masked by the remaining trees. It was almost like watching shadows move about the area.

Without warning, Valkyrie flew into the gate to the Town. It was obvious that the battle was taking its toll on her, as blood could be seen protruding out of her various cuts that she now had. Immediately, she charged back into the trees.

A third figure could now be seen in the fray. Ash looked on with profound interest. Double team? How could a human learn a Pokemon move? But, it wasn't the same size as the other two figures.

Without warning, a flash suddenly enveloped the field. Brock and Valkyrie could now be seen, and it was obvious that Brock had the upper hand in the fight. However, standing between them was the familiar figure of Deoxys.