Hello, friends. I am excited to announce that I now have Chapter Eight finished. I have spent over a week working on this, trying to make it the best quality I can, and I hope I have done so. This chapter is about 6,600 words and is 11 pages long, so it isn't really for the faint of heart. Please review and tell me things I did right/wrong.
Chapter Eight: The Return Home
Entei raced across the land, fear gripping his heart at what he thought he would find at his home. Mewtwo had apparently paid a visit to his home island, slaughtering countless legendary Pokemon in his search for a suitable Pokemon. Mewtwo's cold voice still echoed in his ears: "There are plenty of Entei's in the world, as well as every other "legendary" pokemon. There just happens to be very few in this area. Most others of your kind live in an island community in perfect harmony with other supposed legendaries. Well, at least they did."
Entei's eyes flashed at this memory, anger pouring from his heart and into his thoughts. I swear, if Mewtwo so much as touched any of my family, he will pay with his life. The silent vow calmed him, assuring him that Mewtwo would pay restitution for any damage done to his home. Revenge was the only appropriate response for a travesty as great as killing the members of a sacred race.
Mewtwo isn't even a real Pokemon, Entei recalled. He was created by man and therefore is governed by the same basic flaws as all men are: greed, dishonesty, and ruthlessness. Entei's clairvoyant insight into this worked to tame him, forcing him to feel empathy for Mewtwo's misguided actions. Why can't he feel the same way about the Pokemon he has hurt? Entei wondered sadly.
Entei continued on, never stopping to take a break. He feared that he would lose his nerve if he were to stop, even momentarily. Entei needed to see the ancient city, needed to be sure that Mewtwo had indeed attacked his fellow Pokemon in an effort to find a worthy ally. Most of all, he needed a reason to desire revenge. I've made too many rash decisions already, Entei thought solemnly. I need to make right the wrongs of my past and end this evil at any cost.
Entei neared the shore of the island he was currently on. Across a narrow channel lay his home island, laying quiet and resolute in the nighttime darkness. No lights shone in the distance save that of small fires here and there. Entei was encouraged by this thought; perhaps his kinfolk were still alive.
Now came the problem of crossing the channel. As far as Entei could tell, the channel was only ten to fifteen feet deep. It seemed about twenty feet across and the water was calm, still as the ground beneath his feet. He calculated the odds of making it to the other side in a single bound, but decided that they didn't look too good. He stared at the calm, unmoving water for a few moments before an idea struck him. The water seems calm enough to warrant an attempt, Entei speculated thoughtfully. There is no other way to cross, and I don't possess the means to build a vessel to cross this channel.
Stepping back several feet, he gazed one more time at the unresponsive water. Without hesitation, he strode to the water's edge, picking up speed as quickly as he could. He reached top speed shortly before reaching the shore and used every ounce of his energy to maintain his momentum. He padded across the channel, his padded feet striking and leaving the surface before he could slip under. He managed to cross the treacherous channel just before exhausting himself too much. Gasping, he collapsed onto the solid ground and heaved, exhausted by the amazing feat he had accomplished
After a few short minutes, Entei managed to catch his breath and rise to his feet. He walked slowly towards the center of the island, fearing the worst. Throughout his walk, he could see signs of struggle in the ground, on the trees, and in the underbrush. Entei saddened considerably. Even if Mewtwo didn't attack this island, something did, he thought with remorse.
Nearly twenty minutes after leaving the edge of the island, Entei reached the center where the ancient Pokemon city lay. The sight before him stopped his heart and brought tears to his eyes. That bastard Mewtwo was here, Entei whispered to himself, his anger and hatred growing with every passing second.
Pokemon lay everywhere, either dead or close to it. Apparently, Mewtwo had decided that just killing them wasn't enough; he was going to punish them by forcing them to live through intense pain until they finally died from shock. Entei's hatred for Mewtwo grew stronger than Entei ever believed it could. It seemed to be a stronger feeling that just anger now; it was more like a disgust for Mewtwo's very existence. No word could explain how much Entei hated Mewtwo. This abomination had destroyed his whole life, first capturing him, then destroying everything he had ever loved. He will pay, Entei thought. If it's the last thing I do, Mewtwo will pay.
The anger was replaced by sadness almost immediately. A sense of helplessness washed over him as he surveyed the carnage. These Pokemon were much more experienced than me; older than me, wiser than me, more powerful than me, and yet they fell, Entei thought bitterly. If an entire island of legendary Pokemon were no match for Mewtwo, then what chance do I stand?
En.. Entei, a weak voice called from the heap of bodies near the center of the city. Entei rushed over, excited by the prospect that someone may yet live. When he drew near the source of the noise, however, he halted, horrified by what he saw before him.
A Suicune lay on the ground, a foreleg and rear leg missing from its body. Several gashes marred the once magnificent body of Entei's best friend, and the Suicune himself seemed close to entering the world beyond. A stream of tears ran down Entei's proud face, falling from his face and dropping precariously to the ground below. He bowed his head in respect for Suicune's fallen form, praying to whatever Gods there were that Suicune would earn a place in their domain. Suicune nodded in approval in the quiet prayer, tears streaming down his face as well.
What... What happened, my dear friend? Entei asked, pained. Suicune's sad eyes gazed up at him from his position on the ground, remembering the attack and the torture that followed.
A psychic type Pokemon appeared here a few days ago, Suicune began, pain etched into every syllable. He... he said he was looking for help for some kind of war, something about Pokemon killing each other out of dislike for each other. When we heard that he wanted us to fight in this war, we refused. We do not like getting involved in wars, as you know. Entei nodded in understanding, remembering the ancient traditions that the island's inhabitants adhered to.
Continue, my good friend, Entei said. What happened next?
Suicune gathered his breath, preparing to finish his story. He grew angry at our refusal, saying that if we did not join him that instant then we would all die. We laughed at his meager threat; how could he, one Pokemon, defeat an entire island of extremely well-trained trained Pokemon? Suicune shuddered at this thought. We were wrong to laugh. We had greatly underestimated his power, and our laughter only drew more anger from him. He displayed his awesome power by lifting and throwing a young Zapdos into a tree. The child died instantly, and we all backed away in surprise. He looked at us with great anger in his eyes and asked us one more time to join him.
Suicune shuddered, picturing the evil red gaze of Mewtwo. His eyes were crimson, almost blood red. They were the most evil eyes I have ever seen... or ever will see. We refused once again, and launched our own attacks against him, hoping to catch him off guard and defeat him. He was prepared, however, and managed to block every single attack. Our surprise awarded him with the opportunity to eliminate most of us, incapacitating those that had directly offended him. I was one of those he chose to torture. The memory struck a nerve in Suicune, causing great tears of pain, grief, and despair to flood from his turquoise eyes.
I... I am so sorry that I could not help you, Entei said apologetically. I should have been here, defending the home island instead of running around Kanto.
It is no use to fret on what could have been done, Suicune said. Only fret on what can still be done.
It's just... I seem to be alone now, Entei said sadly. Every other Pokemon living on this island is dead, and I doubt any other legendaries live outside of this island aside from me.
Not true, Suicune said, a gleam of hope now shining in his wet eyes. I believe some of the Pokemon that were here when that psychic attacked managed to hide from his murderous rampage. Aside from that, at least one of each legendary lives on the mainland. For once, the old traditions have proven useful.
Unfortunately, Moltres was captured by that psychic, Entei said regretfully. I, too, was captured momentarily, but managed to escape. Moltres, on the other hand, fell to brainwashing and was beyond saving. I must find a way to release him so that we can fight Mewtwo together.
So that's who it is, Suicune murmured sadly. I suspected, but I didn't think he had come out of hiding.
Trust me, I didn't think so either, Entei replied. Now you say that others may have survived?
Yes, Suicune said. I believe that they may be underground, in the labyrinth that was designed in emergencies like this. Even if you found them, though, they are probably all children, and possibly some infants. I doubt very many adult Pokemon made it down there. You may want to check them out before it's too late.
But what about you? Entei cried. I need to heal you, then maybe together we can take Mewtwo down!
Suicune turned his eyes away, fighting back tears. I fear that it is too late for me. I have suffered far too many wounds. I have already lost substantial amounts of blood.
Entei stepped closer to his friend, tears fresh in his eyes. He didn't try to hide them. His pride would not get in the way of his sacred duty to his best friend. There must be something we can do, Entei sobbed desperately.
I'm afraid it is too late, Suicune replied weakly, tears streaming down his face. You must do whatever you can to preserve the lineage of every legendary Pokemon that has lived on this island. Find Mewtwo, make him pay for the damage he has done. Do this for your brothers, your sisters, your elders. For me. For... Suicune hesitated. For her.
Entei's stomach lurched with nausea. Not her too, He thought quietly. His legs felt like they were going to buckle from under him, stranding him on the ground, too weak to stand up. He managed to steady himself with thoughts of revenge. I will avenge my family, my friends, my lover, Entei thought angrily. He will not avoid judgement.
Entei, Suicune said weakly, bringing him back to his senses. Please... would you breathe fire on me? I'm getting awfully cold. I just need a little bit of warmth... please.
Of course, my dear friend, Entei said sadly. A jet of fire emerged from Entei's great snout, enveloping Suicune in semi-hot fire. Suicune seemed to gain immediate comfort. Entei was pleased with his work. I will not allow you to pass on without some comfort. You have already endured so much.
I... I just wish I could help, Suicune said sadly. This is no easy task. You will need all the help you can get. Once you find the Pokemon that escaped into the underground, I suggest you take a few that are capable of holding their own and find Mewtwo. Make him pay for this slaughter. Do not allow him to live unpunished.
I promise, Entei began sternly. Mewtwo will pay for what he has done to you. Rest assured that you have not died in vain.
That's a relief, Suicune said. He now seemed more at peace with himself. His eyes closed slowly, glazing over as he did so. I will always be watching over you, my good friend, Suicune murmured. Over time, Suicune's breathing slowed until he breathed no more. Entei suspended the jet of flames emerging from his mouth, gazing at Suicune's motionless body with respect for his departure to the void beyond.
Perhaps that is the easy way out, Entei thought. This quest is too much for me... yet I must see it through. There is no one else who can avenge this monstrosity, no one else who can save Moltres. But first I need some help.
Entei left Suicune's body after another few minutes of respectful mourning and began searching for the entrance to the underground cavern. He tried to avert his eyes from the body's of his fallen comrades, but he couldn't help but look. He recognized many of the Pokemon that lay dead in the cobblestone streets of the ancient city. Many of the faces he recognized belonged to childhood friends who should have gone on to do great things. Instead, they lay dead, discarded by a Pokemon who knew nothing of remorse or empathy. His hate was strengthened by the sight, his heart weakened by the limp bodies of close friends and family. Reluctantly, he turned his focus to finding the entrance to the underground hideout.
The layout of the city was simple. There was a large capital building in the center, inhabited centuries ago by humans who had abandoned the island in the midst of natural disaster. Surrounding the capital were small shops and homes erected during the more populous periods of the island's history. Many of the buildings were run down and were impossible to enter, unless the curious intruder wanted the roof to collapse on their unsuspecting head.
Many strange black discs lined the streets, placed at regular intervals. Entei could not determine what these black discs were, but assumed that they were in place to add structural support to the streets. While glancing at one of these discs, he remembered a time when his mother had told him a secret about the city.
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Now, young one, never attempt to move those black discs in the road, his mother said. She was lying on the floor of one of the abandoned houses, nursing one of Entei's newborn brothers. She had a vacant expression on her face, as if she were dreaming of a time long ago.
Why can't I touch them? Entei asked curiously. He was about half the height of a full-grown Entei, but still strong and a force to be reckoned with. He was one of the most muscular Pokemon on the island, and it seemed that he would take the title of the strongest Entei when he reached full height, and with that move to the mainland to assure the survival of his species.
They hide a secret so powerful that it could affect the future of every Pokemon on this island, his mother responded dreamily. Apparently she knew this from personal experience.
What secret? Entei asked eagerly. He had an insatiable desire to learn new things, especially secrets. He had gotten into trouble numerous times for trying to eavesdrop on important meetings and other Pokemon's personal affairs.
If I told you, then it wouldn't be a secret, would it? She asked doggedly. All you need to know is that it may save our species some day. These black discs are perhaps the only defense we have of an attack by trainers. We guard these secrets very well.
If humans had created the black discs in the city, then don't you think they would know these secrets too? Entei asked. He saw this as an obvious flaw in the plan, something that may turn out to be their downfall.
This city is quite old; I doubt any humans even know what those discs are, despite having created them, his mother replied. Besides, if it seems that the humans know what they are, then we'll just change their color. Perhaps pink would fool them.
Entei stared at her thoughtfully, ingesting the information she had provided him. That may work, he finally said after some long thinking. It may work just fine.
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Entei found that he had wandered close to one of the black discs. He examined it carefully, trying to determine what secret it hid. He dropped his face closer to the disc and sniffed it, curious as to whether the smell was the key. Surprisingly, the scent of many Pokemon met him. Not a faint scent that had been left by Pokemon walking across it, nor the scent of the dead Pokemon, but the scent of a few dozen living Pokemon. It's coming from below, he realized suddenly.
Entei lifted one of his massive paws and swung towards the black disc with all of his might. The stainless steel barely even dented from the force of his blow. Entei's pulled back his paw, surprised at the sudden pain jolting through it. He looked at the disc more carefully, trying to figure out a way to move it. He soon noticed small indents on the outer rim of the disc, possibly used to lift the disc from the depression in the ground.
Entei carefully placed a claw in one of the indents. Carefully, he lifted the disc out of its place in the street and placed it on the street. He peered into the black hole beneath him, unable to discern any shapes. However, he could see the faint outline of eyes, probably from the fire and electric Pokemon. As his eyes adjusted, he saw about three dozen frightened Pokemon worriedly staring up at him from the abyss.
Please don't hurt us, one particularly small Raikou said in fear. The wide eyes evident on every Pokemon's face in that dark space mirrored his thoughts.
My God, they're all kids! Entei thought, amazed. I don't see a single adult anywhere here!
Please let us live, a Suicune pleaded. We did nothing wrong; we only want to go home.
Entei looked away regretfully, knowing that they would not have the opportunity to ever return home again. Their homes were destroyed with their parents. A wave of pity rolled over Entei. He knew that these Pokemon were almost certainly doomed to die, as he could do nothing to help them. They had very little hope for a future.
Don't worry, Entei said smoothly. I'm not here to hurt you. I'm trying to find all of the survivors here. He felt a hole open in his stomach at those words.
Survivors? A young Articuno asked. But that means... Everyone's dead! He screamed in shock.
Y-yes, Entei faltered. I'm very sorry, but your families... all of the adults... I...
Don't worry, a Zapdos said, trying to comfort Entei. I'm sure some of the adults managed to get away. They were going to hide some of them when that awful Pokemon came from the sky. Besides, I heard there was some work going on in these things. Some Pokemon might still be down there, unknowing of what's happened up here.
Entei was surprised at this child's eloquence; she seemed more like an adult than a child. Reminds me of myself when I was that age, he thought.
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The sun shone bright, exhibiting the exuberance the entire island was feeling at that moment. This was the day Entei had been waiting for, the day he would accept the title of the strongest Entei on the island and journey to the mainland to explore the realm of man.
Every Pokemon on the island was there; even the previous year's champion attended. Entei felt a sudden rush of nervousness from the large crowd drawn by the event. He had already completed the trials alongside his rivals for the crown, and had done extremely well. His performance was said to rival that of the famed Bolthagor the Great. His opponent was seen by the public in a similar light.
There were almost no physical distinctions between Entei and his opponent. They were both comprised of layered muscles, which rippled under the fur whenever they moved. Their manes were the same crimson color, making them nearly indistinguishable. Their eyes were even the same color. The only difference was the half inch height difference between them, his opponent being the taller competitor.
Entei was preparing for the ceremony when his opponent approached him. His name was Misguard, named after another legendary Entei. Entei had never been given a proper name; his mother had thought it more appropriate to name him Entei than anything else. Everyone thought she was insane, since a Pokemon's name was an indication of power. The greater known the name, the more respected the Pokemon was. Using the generic Entei name, his mother had destroyed any chance of him being famous throughout the Pokemon world. Who would think that legends of Entei were more than just a reference to an Entei with an unknown name?
Misguard stood proudly, the wind blowing his mane, adding to his aura of power and demand for respect. He eyed Entei with indifference, sizing him up. Entei felt himself fall under the intense scrutiny of his greatest opponent. He returned the gesture, examining every rippling muscle, every curve of lean tissue, every perfectly sharpened claws. We are too evenly matched, Entei thought. If it comes down to a battle, we will probably kill each other.
Hello, Entei, Misguard said smugly. Judging from the look of contempt showing on his face, Entei assumed that Misguard had thought of the implications of battle. It seems that we are very far ahead of our comrades in this tournament. In fact, the next closest Entei is trailing us by fifty points.
Entei's eyes betrayed no emotion, hiding the shock that accompanied Misguard's announcement. I didn't think we were that far ahead, he thought to himself. To Misguard he said, Where does that leave us? Entei was afraid that he was trailing Misguard by even one point. It would be difficult to make up any point difference.
Misguard hesitated. We are tied right now, he said sourly. But that won't last for long. The Elders are discussing what should be done to decide the winner of the tournament this very second.
Entei couldn't believe what he had heard. We're tied? He thought wondrously. A sick feeling accompanied the excitement he initially felt at this revelation. We might have to fight each other, he thought fearfully. That won't turn out good.
Misguard studied Entei's reaction carefully, looking for a lapse in his calm disposition. He was disappointed to see that Entei's face didn't betray the fear he most certainly felt. Entei was proud of his ability to hide emotion; he had learned it from his mother.
A bell tolled in the distance from the approximate direction of the stadium, catching Entei and Misguard by surprise. They both jumped a foot or so in the air, but managed to regain composure quickly. They glanced at each other before shrugging and following the path towards the ancient stadium.
The stadium lay outside of the city, in a clearing in the middle of the forest. Few paths led to this awesome structure that hadn't been plagued by the growth of vegetation since the original inhabitant's abandonment of the island. The stadium itself was a beautiful piece of architecture. It was several hundred feet tall and was easily two miles in circumference. Entei had relished running around the colossal structure as a child, feeling the wind blow through his mane and pockmarking his face with several particles of sand.
The inside of the stadium was a sort of amphitheater, with the stands raised higher than the "stage", as the Elders liked to call it. It was here where competitions took place, whether they be annual celebratory tournaments or the yearly tournament held to decide which member of each species would be best suited to live on the mainland. The stage was well suited to a large variety of events, from speed challenges to Pokemon battles. Incidentally, Pokemon usually took their disputes here to be seen by all of the Pokemon of the island. The stadium was frequently used, and thus had to be kept in excellent condition. Many Pokemon were assigned the task of maintaining the stadium, making sure that the beams could support the massive structure.
Entei and Misguard approached the large hole in the side of the stadium that served as a gate. They walked through an elaborate maze of hallways before finding their way to the entrance of the stage. Misguard nodded to Entei and ran through the hallway to his side of the stage. When Misguard was in place, the two rivals entered the stage, which now seemed to be set up for a battle. Great, Entei thought in despair. It looks like they decided on a battle to decide the winner.
Misguard stood still, looking calm despite the tremors of fear coursing throughout his body. Entei gained confidence when he saw this. He's scared too, he thought, courage flowing into him. He turned his great head towards the Elders table to hear what was to be carried out.
My fellow Pokemon, an old Moltres said. This Moltres' fire shown with a duller flame than most Entei had ever seen. It was obvious that this Moltres was older than every other Pokemon on the island, perhaps by many centuries. It is my pleasure to announce the final event for the two remaining Entei to compete in for the title of the world's strongest Entei. Will the competitors please approach the table?
Entei and Misguard cast weary glances at each other before reluctantly walking to the Elders table. Here Entei could get a better view of the Moltres that presided over the Elders. He was massive, about two times larger than the other Moltres that littered the stadium. Scars decorated his body, tribute to the many battles he had fought in as a young Moltres. Despite the frailty he conveyed, a fire burned in his ancient eyes as if daring someone to fight him. Entei had no doubt that any Pokemon, even one of the island's many Zapdos, would fall in battle to him. Clearly, this Moltres' power could not be matched.
How are you today? The Moltres asked the two Entei softly. Both Entei and Misguard replied that they felt fine and were ready to finish the tournament. Moltres smiled at this and addressed the audience once more. It is time to announce the final test. As you all know, very few ties have occurred in the history of this island. When a tie does occur, however, one of the competitors usually backs out in surrender to their opponent. This isn't because they have lost heart, but because they do not wish to battle their opponent.
The crowd became restless and excited at these words, as many of them had hoped for a Pokemon battle. They had no doubt figured out that Entei and Misguard would be almost evenly matched in battle, and had longed for one to take place throughout the entire tournament. Moltres smiled at the effect of his words. After a moment of murmuring passing through the crowd, Moltres quieted them with a simple wave of one of his massive wings. The noise died down and Moltres continued.
I know you can't wait for the battle to begin, as Pokemon this evenly matched have seldom battled, so I will allow the competitors to choose when to begin the battle. To Entei and Misguard he said, Whenever you're ready, just step on the field. The two Entei nodded and turned, gathering their thoughts and courage as they approached the battle platform.
They stood opposite each other, casting angry looks towards the other while calmly awaiting the referee of the battle to approach the platform. An Articuno finally found its way to the raised platform and nodded towards the competitors. Both Entei nodded back, ready to start the battle.
You both know the rules, Articuno said. I wish both of you the best of luck. Now, begin the battle! The crowd cheered at the referee's booming announcement. Entei immediately drown out the audience, concentrating on Misguard. Misguard, too, focused on Entei, and they circled each other, awaiting the other to make the first move. As they circled they drew closer, almost within range of a physical attack. Entei knew he had to fight the urge to bite or scratch his opponent, as that would put him at a severe disadvantage. For a long while, neither made a move.
Misguard must have decided that enough time had passed and become impatient because he lunged at Entei with its claws outstretched and its jaws opened. Entei barely dodged the attack, but realized that his dodge had thrown him off balance. He spun around just in time to see Misguard leaping at him once more. This time Entei did not try to dodge the attack, but instead leaped towards Misguard. They collided in midair, knocking each other away with the force of their swinging paws. They fell to the ground and rolled to their feet, ready for another bout. Both reached their feet at the same time, awing the audience.
Very good, Misguard thought, breathing heavily. I didn't expect that retaliation. They circled each other once more, trying to find an opening to exploit. Both had perfect poses, however, and guarded any possible weak spots with extreme care.
Expect the unexpected, Entei replied, still searching out a weak spot. It must be there, he thought desperately. No Pokemon is perfect. An opening appeared when Misguard stumbled over a stone with his left hind leg. Entei immediately lunged at Misguard's defenseless form, anticipating the collision between his body and Misguard's prone form. Misguard surprised him, however, by countering Entei's attack with a swipe of his right forefoot. Entei flew towards a boulder near the outside edge of the arena, shattering the large rock with his collision. Entei fell to the ground and struggled to his feet, rage building up inside of him.
He planned that, he thought in surprise. He tricked me into thinking he had slipped up.
Misguard bolted across the field in a flurry of flames, attempting to slam Entei into the remnants of the shattered boulder. Entei dodged the attack just in time, though, and left Misguard to slam into the boulder with great force. I knew it wouldn't be that easy, Misguard said. I figured that you still had some tricks up your sleeve.
You assumed correct, Entei said, facing Misguard as they circled each other again. They again began the arduous task of seeking a weak point, hoping to render their opponent incapacitated. None seemed to present themselves now: Misguard obviously wasn't foolish enough to think the same trick would work twice. They continued to circle each other as the crowd's excitement built. They could tell this was an intense battle between two equals, and whatever the outcome, they were by far the strongest Entei in the world.
Entei made a sudden move towards Misguard, surprising him and making him stumble for real this time. Entei siezed his opportunity and rushed Misguard, who could not defend himself this time. Entei slammed into Misguard's helpless body and pressed him against the ground while slashing his face with a mighty paw. Misguard howled in rage, anxious to teach Entei a lesson. With all of his energy, Misguard threw Entei off of him and pinned him down, taking his chance to slash at Entei. They continued to roll around, draining each other's energy through well placed blows that scarred them. Neither appeared to be winning. The crowd watched, transfixed by the brutality with which the two Entei attacked each other. They were completely silent; the baby Pokemon didn't even cry when their hunger overtook them and their mother's didn't feed them. Every single eye was on the two Pokemon struggling for leverage in the arena.
The two Pokemon pushed each other away and climbed slowly to their feet. Both were worn out greatly by the skirmish that had taken place, but they attempted to hide it. Their legs were weak, their eyes were glazed in exhaustion, and their bodies glistened with sweat. They again circled each other, too weak to cover every weak point but also too tired to take advantage of one of their opponents. Finally, Entei attacked.
He jumped as high as he could into the air and aimed his body at Misguard. Misguard looked up at Entei's flying body, frozen in fear. Entei collided with Misguard, slamming him into the ground and weakening him considerably. Entei had misjudged the drain he would feel in his energy, however: he, too, was near the point of blacking out.
Misguard noticed the vacancy existent in Entei's eyes and took advantage of this. He ran at Entei, swerving left and right to throw him off guard. Entei wearily watched him, not even trying to block the attack. Misguard smashed into Entei and threw him off of the platform. Entei landed with a loud thump, and was knocked unconscious.
After that humiliation, as Entei called it, he trained every day. Whether he was sore or feeling perfect, he trained. Whether he was tired or energetic, he trained. Whether he was sick or well, he trained. A year passed and he found himself against Misguard once again, who had experienced a year in Kanto. They fought again after another tie, but this time Entei was victorious. That win led to the life Entei had led on the mainland since the first time he had won the tournament.
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Entei gazed wearily at the Pokemon in the pit, a pit of worry filling his stomach as the realization that they were his responsibility, at least until he found the adult Pokemon, hit him hard. Even if they are like I was at that age, he thought, they aren't ready for this kind of adventure. Something tells me that they will play a role, but what could they possibly do? They are only children!
Entei argued with himself. His intuition had often proved correct, but he simply refused to believe it this time. I will not put these young ones in danger! He thought violently. They haven't even had a chance to experience life yet! How can I expect them to die? He looked at the young legendaries, his eyes dull with sadness at the waste their lives would be. What can I do to protect them anyway? Mewtwo will only return and destroy them if he finds out they survived his initial attack.
The young Pokemon stared at him as he paced, the fear gone from their hearts as they now realized that Entei was here to help. They felt pity for him, since the older Pokemon knew that Entei would face many trials far tougher than this one in his journey, and they wished they could unburden him of some of his responsibility. They knew also that the chances any adults had survived the attack were very low, that this Entei was perhaps the last adult left on the island who wasn't dead. They knew of his responsibility to his family, that he was required to avenge the death of those he held dear. Their predicament would only hold him back from his solemn duty, and they knew it.
An older Articuno, perhaps a teenager by human standards, stood nervously off to the side of the young Pokemon. He had been fretting with a possible solution for quite some time, as he was aware of the problems Entei would face raising them. The young Articuno knew that he needed to speak up, to tell Entei his grand idea, but his nerves failed him at every chance he had. Finally, he fought the dread growing in his stomach and addressed Entei. Sir, he thought respectfully. I believe that I could help with the care of these Pokemon.
Entei eyed the young Articuno wearily. Go on, he said slowly.
Articuno nodded in thanks. Several of us here are old enough to find our way through the forests and find berries for the younger Pokemon and ourselves. I believe that we can survive for a long while in this manner, the older half of the Pokemon here caring for the younger half.
Entei nodded his approval; he was liking this plan so far. Continue, he responded at Articuno's hesitation.
Articuno regained his composure and drove on. I think it would be beneficial to you along with the world if you leave us older Pokemon to watch the younger ones. You must find the Pokemon responsible for this and kill them. How can we expect you to do that and babysit us at the same time?
Entei stood thoughtfully before replying. The only problem with that is I don't know if I can trust you to take care of them properly.
Articuno's eyes met Entei's, locking a full quarter of a minute before he responded. You have nothing to worry about. I promise on my life that no harm will befall these children. You have my guarantee that they will be healthy and safe the day you return.
Entei studied the child for a few moments before deciding. He acknowledged that the Articuno had a valid point, and he also knew that the longer he stayed here, the greater the chance Mewtwo would attack again. Mewtwo was hunting him, after all. Entei finally made up his mind, but hesitated before finally announcing his decision. Your terms sound reasonable, he admitted. I will allow you to watch these young Pokemon while I am away. Just take good care of them and let no harm befall them. If that Pokemon returns, I want you to hide in the catacombs of the city at all costs. No need to play hero. Hopefully, you won't have to worry about this.
The Articuno nodded, happy that Entei trusted him enough with the lives of the island's Pokemon. He was eager to prove himself to this legendary figure, the strongest Entei who had ever lived. If he could impress him, then his future was set on the mainland.
I am placing all responsibility on you, Entei said to Articuno. If anything happens to these Pokemon, then believe me when I say that you will be punished for your inadequacy and your boasting here today.
I understand, Articuno replied solemnly. He vowed to himself to protect the Pokemon at all costs, to make Entei proud of him, to make a name for himself throughout all the land. Pokemon will sing my name in praise for all eternity, Articuno thought wistfully. The name 'Gartran' will become a household name, just as Entei's name has.
I must leave you now, but I want you to send some of the older Pokemon to find berries for all of you to eat, and others to search for any surviving adults. Until adults are found or I return, this Articuno... Entei stopped, forgetting Articuno's proper name.
Gartran, sir, the Articuno replied proudly.
Gartran is in charge until then, Entei said. If you all work together, then perhaps we can rebuild this community. Just perhaps... His speech trailing off, Entei headed towards the coast of the island where he had come from, taking great care to avoid stepping of the bodies of his fallen comrades. They have suffered enough torture, Entei thought dully as he stepped around a fallen Zapdos. No need to cause any more damage to them.
