Through Blind Eyes

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Yes, I'm trying again. Maybe this one will work better than I think it will.


Prologue

Fields rolled by as the tiny car shot by. A few Tauros looked up but continued grazing.
Lisha leaned against the car window and gazed out as a herd of Ponyta raced by the fence. Three months more, just three months more, she reminded herself. Then I'll have a Ponyta of my own.
"Lisha!" Her father looked over and found her staring into space again. He slapped the dashboard in front of her and watched her jerk out of her daydream. "As I was saying, you can't daydream when we get there. There's a lot of hazardous material in the plant."
"You told me that yesterday and I'll be fine," she retorted. "Besides, I'll only be in your office."
Shaking his head, he sighed heavily. "All right but just stay in there."
"You got it." She grinned as she said it and went back to staring out the window again.

Red lights and a wailing screech filled the steel halls. People scrambled to safety outside, leaving others behind. Outside wasn't much better for the workers were hysterical.
Lisha pushed her way through crowd, screaming for her father. Her voice could barely be heard over the screaming mass. She pushed and managed to find the end of the sea of bodies.
Large cans were piled on top of each other with a symbol. 'Hazardous Material' was written in bold black.
Part of the plant erupted, spewing pieces of steel into the air. A large bit of the plant came crashing down on the orange cans, cracking a few open.
She watched as the white and gray liquid shot out from its entrapment and into her face. Crying out, she struggled to get whatever it was out of her eyes but tripped. There was the familiar crack as her head smashed into the sidewalk and then darkness.

"Please, isn't there anything that works?"
"I'm sorry, sir, but there's nothing we can do about it."
She listened, though the voices were low and barely a murmur. Where am I? she asked herself. Lisha tried once again to open her eyes but found them shut tight. A small throbbing started to seep into her head and she growled.
The door opened to her left and footsteps clunked over to her.
"Lisha?"
"Dad? Where am I? Why can't I open my eyes?" She tried to sit up but a hand pressed her back down.
"Calm down, sweetie. You're okay." The voice shook a bit but steadied. "The doctor's going to come in and tell you. Don't worry about a thing." He moved away from her as more footsteps sounded in the small room.
"Hello, Lisha. Can you hear me?"
"Yeah. Why can't I open my eyes?" she asked again, hoping for an answer.
"Let me explain first." The voice stayed steady but she knew better. "Yesterday, when you were at the plant. What happened?"
"There lots of sirens and then I couldn't find Dad. I tried to find him but it was too loud. I found a lot of orange cans and then part of the building blew up and hit one. Something sprayed into my face and then I hit my head on the ground." She paused to think. "Am I okay?"
"Yes and no." He sighed and reached over, taking off the bandaging around her eyes. He watched her blink a few times then stare around in confusion.
"What's going on? Why can't I see?" Her voice raised a few octaves as she stared around the room.
"Lisha." The doctor slid his hand over hers to calm her. "I'm sorry but you're blind."
"'Blind'?" She looked at him with milky eyes. "I can't be. No. I'm going for my Trainer's license in three months. I can't be blind." Shaking, she waved her hand in front of her face, seeing only blackness. "I can't be, I can't be."
The doctor looked over at her father who was struggling not to cry. He stood up, walked over to the man and nodded. Her father nodded and went over to her, gently whispering to her that it would be all right.


Chapter 1

"Rapidash going for a Take Down on a grass field," she shot out.
"Good, now this one."
Another tape played. The Pokemon's sound was muffled by the field but she heard it.
"Nidoqueen aiming for an Earthquake on a sand field. Like that's going to work," she chuckled.
"I believe it didn't." Her friend, Ian, grinned at her though she couldn't see it. "You're getting better, Lisha."
She smiled at him and fiddled with the sunglasses she usually wore. "Tomorrow is the test. They'll have to let me in once they know what I can do."
Ian nodded and switched tapes. Training her to know what Pokemon, what attack, and what field had been her idea he reminded himself. It had only been three years ago when she wanted to train. Stubborn as ever, not giving up on getting a Trainer's license. And then he remembered when her eyes had been a hazel colour, not the milky blue they were now. But she didn't mind. She probably couldn't mind since she couldn't see herself. He brought himself out of it and turned to the tapes. "All right, try these.''
Lisha listened for a good five seconds before snapping out the answer. ''Raichu, Thunderbolt, Grass field."
"Good, now this one," Ian pushed the fast forward button and watched the screen.
She nearly got the answer out before she caught herself and stared out the closed door. A moment later, something knocked and Ian's mother poked her head in.
"Lisha, your father called. Time to go," she said, then slid out quietly.
"How do you do that?" Ian asked, helping her up.
"One sense is cancelled out, the others grow stronger."
Ian rolled his eyes. Same answer every time.
"Don't you roll your eyes at me," she grinned, putting her sunglasses on.
"I still want to know how you do that." He looked over as she found the door, pulled it open wider. Ian stepped up beside, walking with her down the flight of stairs. Lisha clomped down them, not bothering to even count them. She knew them too well.
Walking out the door and into the fresh air, she looked around absently and shuffled away. Ian joined her and put himself between her and the street.
"You don't have to walk me home," she growled, turning to him.
"Just trying to help," he said lightly. "Be a gentleman and you get yelled at."
She snorted, shaking her head. "You're a character."
He smiled and hummed as they turned onto the walkway. Lisha hopped up the porch steps and let herself in. She turned to face Ian and muttered, "Thanks."
"Don't mention it. I'll be waiting on the sidewalk tomorrow." He waved and leaped off the porch.
Lisha shut the door and walked skillfully down the hall, turning into the kitchen. "Dad?"
"Hello, girl," he called out from behind the counter, watching her head turn in his direction. "How was studying?"
Skimming her fingers along the back of a chair, she pulled it out and dropped into it. "Good. I'm sure I can pass the Trainer test tomorrow."
I don't doubt that, he thought, moving over to sit next to her. Sighing, he gripped her hand and stared at her. "Lisha, are you sure you want to do this?"
She blinked a few times and let out her own sigh. "Yes, Dad. I'm ready and I know I can do it. It's want I want to do." She looked blankly at his face. "I'm going through with it."
He took in a breath, gripped her hand tighter. "I know. I know, Lisha. But," he stopped, trying to steady himself.
"It's just because I can't see a thing. Who cares?" She stood up suddenly. "I've been training myself since I came out of the hospital and I'm going to do this! I will do this!" Her breathing had quickened, her body shook with a bit of rage.
"Lisha, calm down. I'm not doubting you." Rising, he grabbed her shoulders and pulled her back down into the chair. "I just want you to be safe."
"Ian will be there, he'll pass like me. I won't be alone."
"I know he'll pass." He forced his voice to be gentle. "I just don't think it's a good idea for you to do this."
"No. You just don't want me to end up like Mom." Lisha regretted it when it came out but she didn't think. She ran out, shot into her room, and slammed the door behind her. Trembling from the rage and regret, she slid down the wall, placing her head on her knees and sobbed.

Drake sat in silence in the kitchen. He'd hurt her, he knew, but she came back with something more. She slammed her door, shutting herself away from him. He wiped his sweaty palms on his pants and stared out the kitchen window. Normally, he would yell at her for slamming the door. Others would. But the way she'd looked when she bolted, anger and betrayal.
You just don't want me to end up like Mom. It ran through his head, hurting him. Drake stared at the floor and tried to calm himself. She had to mention that. Just had to. But he knew it was true. He didn't want her to end up like her mother had. Attacked by Team Rocket and killed mercilessly with her Pokemon. The memories were horrid, and she had been four.
He couldn't take it anymore. Rising, he exited the room and walked down to her bedroom. He knocked first, waiting a few seconds before opening the door.
She was curled up on the wall, shivering. Drake dropped down beside her, sliding an arm around her. "Lisha," he whispered, tugging her to lean on him.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to." Her voice wavered.
"It's okay. I should be the one apologizing," he said. She shook and clutched his shirt, wanting to calm herself. "I want you to be okay, I couldn't bear to lose you."
"I know. I know," she mumbled, tears slipping down her face.
"You mother would've been proud."
She looked blindly up at him, trying to imagine what he looked like. She didn't know what to say and just clung to him.
He looked down at her, rubbing the tears from her face. "I'm proud of you. You never give up on the near impossible."
Lisha sniffed and rocked beside him.
Her father started to chuckle. "Look at us, getting all sappy."
She started laughing as well, hanging on so she didn't fall over.
"That felt good," Drake said minutes later. He looked down at his daughter and smiled. "I believe you have a test tomorrow." Gazing up, he spotted the time on her clock. Nine oh six. "You need to get to bed."
Stiffly, they both got up, Lisha holding onto him. He watched her kick off her sandals and lay down on the sheets.
"Good night," he whispered, taking off her glasses and setting them next to the clock.
"'Night," she mumbled, drifting off.
Drake flipped the lights off and closed her door behind him. Like her mother, he thought with a smile.

[Lady Vulpix]

Wow, AG, that was great! Some of it reminded me a little of Daredevil, but the context is different and original in a way. It's intriguing. Please post the next chapter soon!

[mistysakura]

Whoa. It's a great concept, not the usual trainer fic or save-the-world thing. Not that I have anything against the types mentioned just then, it's just nice to see a change.

[ZeldaFan20]

:yes: I agree. A girl who overcomes blindness to become a Pokemon trainer: this story certainly has potential.

[dratinihaunter13]

you show so many signs of a good writer in this fic. handling the blindness well, remembering that you gave her sunglasses and bringing those back at the end. Excellent start so far, you got some good qualities that many writers lack. only problems were the action seemed a little rushed and a lot of the sentences are the same length: short. try combining some of them for next chapter. i hope your interest in this fic stays high, it looks great and i want to see how she goes through training through blind eyes =).

[Otto=ottO]

Really, really, good. You thought of a lot of things. Are you sure you're not blind, lol. Well, I'd never'f thought of counting the steps. Well, if the material was so hazardous, why didn't she die? Or her face become hideouly scared? What was so hazardous about it? A lot of liquids can make a person blind?


Anyhoo, was Daredevil an inspiration?

[ZeldaFan20]

:confused: Hmm.....DareDevil. Isn't he that guy in the red suit (and I'm NOT talking about Santa Clause)?

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Yay! Replies :D

LV - Thanks, Lady. Er, I actually did get it a bit from Daredevil and from an older story that I've yet to recover. Heh.
misty - Thanks. It gets kinda boring huh when it's just a typical Trainer fic. Also, thanks for the nomination.
ZF20 - Yeah, she's kinda ambitious, isn't she? And yes, Daredevil is the one in the red suit.
dh13 - Yes, a lot of ppl say I rush too much. I hope I fixed it a bit (isn't really counting on it).
Otto - Er, I'll check the contents of the material once we get some shipment in. *grins* Yes, Daredevil was an inspiration as was another one of my disabled fics not on the board anymore (Wild Horses Just Stay Wild for those who remember).

This is the longest chapter I have ever written so be proud of me!


Chapter 2

The car ride was silent except for an occasional blip of the cassette player. Both were doing some last minute studying, sharing the earphones.
It was actually the first time Drake had ever seen her study this intensely. Answers flew out of her before Ian could even ask a question.
He finally gave up trying to question her and watched the fields roll by out the small window. Ponyta raced across the pastures with a Rapidash leading the herd. Fire leaped from their hooves and ash scattered in the sky from their manes. A few foals tagged behind, their legs looking too long for their bodies.
Drake pulled up next to the towering lab, parking behind a black sedan. Ian slid out, helping Lisha behind him. A few kids looked over but turned back and hopped up the stairs to the double doors.
Lisha rolled her shoulders and let her father's hand guide her to the stairs. She took them cautiously, sliding her feet to make sure they didn't end sooner than she thought. Stone, she thought. They're made of stone.
A blast of noise met them as the doors opened. Over three dozen kids, most with parents, were packed inside the waiting area. Wincing from the sound level, Lisha let Ian help her to a seat.
"All parents, please report to the door on the left of the room. Thank you!" the intercom beamed out.
"Good luck, you two," Drake rubbed Lisha's shoulder once and followed the train.
She swayed a bit, looking blindly around the room and trying to pick out voices.
"Lisha! Hey, girl!"
She looked up absently as a hand plopped down on her shoulder. A smile spread across her face as she recognized the Southern drawl. "Hey, Ryann. How's it going?"
"Great! Today's the day I get my license!"
"Good luck, Ryann," she said, shaking hands with the ambitious ten year old.
"You, too! Hey there, Ian!" Ryann swooped to the boy. "Goin' for one too?"
"Er, yeah." Ian tried to shrink away a bit, not really caring much for the kid.
"All right then. Good luck to you, boy! Well, I gotta go. Last minute studyin'" She winked, then waved and disappeared through the crowd.
"How can you stand her?" Ian asked, rubbing his ear.
"Just can," Lisha replied, smiling.
"Feeney, River," someone growled.
"Hill," she snarled, getting to her feet.
Dustin stood toe to toe with her, going over her height of five three with his of five six. Ian scrambled up, watching the two as they squared off mentally.
"You're not going to make it. Only trainers who can see can go on through," Dustin said, sneering.
"Then why are you trying again, Hill? Couldn't see the first time you tried this?" She equaled his tone, straightening up.
He let out an inhuman sound and grabbed her by the collar so that her toes barely reached the floor. "You think you're so smart, huh? You'll find out the hard way. You'll fail." Dustin dropped her back to the ground and stormed off through the crowd.
"Charming, isn't he?" Ian's voice thick on sarcasm asked, watching him disappear.
"A real prince charming," she chuckled, brushing herself off. "I just want to knock that face in. I'm glad I can't see it."
"Lucky you," Ian grinned.
A few other kids walked by, passing luck around to some who didn't need it and to the ones who did. Sylvie Goldbrig, a thin girl of eleven with a sharp mind and quick hands passed, shaking hands with both of them and swiping Ian's watch for the fun of it. Mickey Null, a bit on the pudgy side and always nervous, jogged up and asked if they knew anything about the test. Ian said he'd be all right but he walked away with a worried look and feeling. Finally, the call came.
"Welcome everyone to Willow Lab! I know a few of you are impatient but thanks for waiting!" the intercom beeped. "Now, before we begin, I would like for everyone to sign in at the table in the left corner. After that is done, just sit tight and we'll get this started in a few minutes!"
Ian pushed through the small crowd forming at the table to sign both him and Lisha in, anxious to get this over with. Minutes passed before the mob moved away and a few aides counted off the kids.
"All right. Today we have a number of thirty-eight kids going for a license! That's one of the highest numbers yet! But, skip that. When you hear your name over the intercom, please come through the door in the front of the room. The test will take place there. Just sit back and wait.
"Hilliary Cotham!"
Ian watched as a blond-headed girl, barely ten, walked through the doors. Minutes passed as the wait made people anxious and even more nervous. The intercom beeped on again and announced the next name.
"Laura Eagle!"
A girl with short and choppy black hair walked straight to the doors and shoved them open. She disappeared and the doors snapped shut.
"They're doing it by age. We'll be the last ones to go," Ian whispered to her.
"Great," she groaned, settling down in her chair. "Guess I'll take a nap."
Kids dispersed from the room, first the ten year olds, then eleven and twelve.
"Ian Feeney!"
"Well, this is it." He stretched his arms and patted her shoulder.
"Good luck, Ian." He jogged away from her and slid into the room.
Lisha sat in the room alone, waiting. She fingered the sunglasses she brought, twirling them in her fingers. Minutes passed as she replayed answers through her mind.
"Lisha Hill." Instead of the intercom, a lab aide walked out. "We're ready." He placed a hand on her shoulder and led her inside the testing area.
Lisha's fingers skimmed over a chair, judging the height of it. She settled down in it, listening as he repeated the necessary items.
"Testing will have three parts: the Sound Test, the Written Test, and the Battle Test. You need to make at least half on all to pass. The Sound Test is worth twenty points out of fifty, as well as the Battle Test. The Written Test is ten points.
"First will be the Sound Test. The player will play a sound and you must guess what Pokemon it is. I will write down your answers. There are ten questions."
The button for 'Play' clicked and the tape started to roll. Eerie howls surrounded the room, calling out to the other.
"Pack of Houndour," Lisha said quickly.
He looked up, watched the creased lines of concentration deepen as the next line of noises wafted out.
"Stantler, Hypnosis, Dirt Field," she snapped out.
"Flaaffy, Cotton Spore, Rock Field.
"Graveler, Grass Field."
He couldn't believe it. She was answering the Pokemon right, but the field and attack was amazing to him. Not one kid could ever do that. The Porygon question screwed up her train of thought for a few seconds but not her pace.
"Last one," he muttered, quickly writing her last answer.
Songs erupted from the stereo, raising then falling in tune. She flipped through the memory book in her mind, trying to figure out what it was. Finally, she sighed and answered, "Unknown Pokemon."
"All right. Now is the Written part. We've taken the special preparations in doing it in Braille, which I hope you can read."
"Yes, I can read it." Lisha rolled her shoulders and accepted the paper that disturbed the air in front of her.
"Good. I'll write down your answers. You have twenty minutes to finish. Begin."
She immediately slid her finger up to the bump that meant one. What is the longest Pokemon? "Steelix."
The lab aide scribbled down her answer.
What Pokemon can Eevee evolve into with the help of a Thunder Stone? "Jolteon."
How many 'bulbs' does Lanturn have? "Two."
What Grass attack can Magikarp learn? "Wait, this one doesn't make any sense."
"Which one?" He looked up.
"Number four. It says 'What Grass attack can Magikarp learn?'"
"Er, sorry. It's supposed to say what Water attack can Magikarp learn."
"Splash."
The rest was easy to her mind. Fifteen minutes were all that passed for her to get through the questions. She let the aide help her up and out of a creaky door. The fresh air greeted her as they stepped outside and the sun warmed her skin. The lab aide guided Lisha to the red box in front of a battlefield and pressed a PokeBall into her palm.
"This is the last part of the test, the Battle Test. You will be given a Pokemon to battle with. To pass, you must defeat or be close to defeating to opponent. Your Pokemon is a Pikachu with Thunderbolt and Quick Attack. The opponent's is an Arbok with Poison Sting and Earthquake. Good luck." He stepped out of the box and into the judging box.
"You ready, girl? Let's go, Arbok!" the opponent's voice sliced through the air. A hissing sound like acid melting away a floor rose up above his. The Arbok watched her raise up the PokeBall and release the electric rodent. "Arbok, use Poison Sting!"
"Pikachu, Quick Attack out of the way!" Lisha countered.
The huge cobra opened his maw, revealing the sharp fangs in his jaws. He hissed loudly and started spitting needles at the Pikachu. The rodent smiled and suddenly disappeared, almost teleporting to the other side. He laughed and raced across the field, faster than a Remoraid in water. The Arbok couldn't keep up with the rodent and finally gave up, dizziness racing across his head.
"Arbok! Snap out of it and use Earthquake!"
"Charbok!" the snake hissed, again revealing it's fangs. He raised his tail into the air and slapped it hard on the ground. A fissure started to appear, causing the Electric type to panic just a bit.
"Pikachu! Jump on the Arbok's hood and hang on!" Lisha called out, remembering the anatomy of the Pokemon.
Taking in a deep breath, Pikachu bolted across the field and onto the Arbok's colourful hood, wrapping his paws and the neck. The snake stopped his attack and snapped at the paws but couldn't reach them. Bucking, the cobra rolled and flipped but couldn't shake the rodent off.
"Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" she cried, tasting victory.
"Pikachu!" the rodent screamed, the energy in his cheeks exploding. The snake hissed and screamed and it flailed wildly around. Dirt and sand gathered into the air and slowly floated down. Once it cleared though, it was sure to say who won. "Pikachu!" called the rodent triumphantly, doing a victory lap around the field. The Arbok lay in the center, electrical burns all over his hood and head.
"Arbok, no!" The opponent quickly called back his Pokemon and sulked off, growling as he went.
Lisha knelt down, stroked the fur of the Pikachu. "Good job, boy."
"Pika," he said, purring as she rubbed his head and returned him.
"Lisha, you're done." The aide took the PokeBall from her hands. "I'll take you to where everyone else is. The results will come in about an hour."

"Excuse me! Attention!" Professor Rose tapped the podium where she stood intently. "Thank you. I will now announce the Willow Town's ten new Trainers by score. With a score of thirty-nine out of fifty is Ryann Weatherby!"
A howl of excitement smashed the air, raising octaves higher than the clapping, as Ryann cheered. She hopped up the stairs, nearly tripping over the second one, to the podium and watched in awe as the professor handed her the PokeDex with her name in it.
"Mickey Null, with a score of forty!"
Mickey nearly had a heart attack right there as he stood dumbfounded. Ian gave him a small push forward to the steps that he stumbled on but caught himself and accepted the gift.
"Mark Gutierrez and Caesar Gutierrez with a score of forty-one!" Rose smiled as the twins hopped up the stairs, thrusting their fists into the air.
"With a score of forty-three, Sylvie Goldbrig!"
The girl slid up to the podium, nodding to Professor Rose and standing beside the other four, slapping hands with Ryann.
"Good job, good job. Now, Nigel Wylde and Hillairy Cotham with a score of forty-four!"
Both kids walked up, delight sprinkled over their faces. Both congratulating each other and joined the others.
"Now for the top three scores! We have with a score of forty-seven, Ian Feeney!"
Lisha patted Ian's shoulder as he jumped up. "Congrats, Ian."
"Good luck, girl," he whispered before heading towards the front.
"Good job, Ian," Rose said in appreciation. "Now, with a score of forty-eight, Dustin Hill!"
Lisha winced as Dustin hoots filled the air. Amazed, but disgusted, she clapped twice just to be courteous.
"Good job, Dustin. And now for the top score of forty-nine," Professor Rose paused just for a dramatic suspense. "Lisha River!"
She hesitated, before grinning as her father led her to the stairs. Lisha could feel Prof. Rose smiling at her as she handed over the PokeDex.
"Congratulations, Lisha. You did it."
She turned to where the audience applauded loudly. Ian grabbed her wrist and thrusted it into the air. Laughing, she let herself be bombarded with handshakes from the other testers and parents.
"If the ten new Trainers will follow me, we can get started on picking out your new Pokemon." Professor Rose smiled as the new Trainers gathered close.

[ZeldaFan20]

:yes: It's great that Lisha was able to get her licence. She really wowed them, and she certainly showed that kid Dustin. Great chapter.

[Lady Vulpix]

Yes, that was excellent, AG! And it was all so real! All the steps until the test came... And even the mistake in the question! Lol! And the battle was great. :)
Oh, and the twins got the same result? What a coincidence!
I wonder what Lisha's first pokemon will be...
Please keep writing this fic. It's great!

[Otto=ottO]

Great job. I could really fell the tensions between Dustin and the other two. I also get the felling of what it's like to be blind. You are a great writer, keep it up.

[ZeldaFan20]

:yes: I have a feeling that she'll get a Pikachu for her partner. After all, she did so well with it during the test, right?

[mistysakura]

I don't think she'll get Pikachu. It might become a clone of the anime.

What Water attack can Magikarp learn? Just so hard, huh? :P

[ZeldaFan20]

:yes: Yeah, I guess your right. Besides, I think they can only choose between three types: Fire, Water, and Grass. Gosh, which will she choose :confused:?

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

ZF20 - Thanks for sticking. Glad to see people are enjoying it. Oh, and just watch to see how different this place is with Pokemon.
LV - I'll keep writing as long as you keep reading *grins* Thanks for the nominations.
Otto - Hehe. Thanks for replying. Keep reading on!
ms - Hm, I do believe it would be able to learn Surf if it had than scales. Keep reading!


Chapter 3

Corridors branched off from the main hall, leading to other research areas. Professor Rose kept to the main one, looking behind her to see if the kids were keeping up. She wasn’t the least bit surprised to find Ian and Lisha in the back with Ryann and Mickey.
Rose pushed open the door to the main lab, the only one open to the public. Pausing, she looked down at the ten PokéBalls and turned to gaze at the new Trainers. She cleared her throat and began with the necessary speech.
“Congratulations to all of you. As you know, that was only a little test. The journey is the big test. Ten Gyms, one goal; the Neaho Tournament. Held once every year and only Trainers with all ten badges can get in.
“Just to make it easier, I’ve gathered ten Pokémon, all of one type, to assist you on your quest. All of you will choose one. Once you receive your Pokémon, you may name it, train it, whatever.
“Well, that concludes the pep talk. We’ll do this by age so,� Rose checked the list. “Hilliary is first.�
The young blond walked up and listened to the Pokémon listed off. Frustration crossed her face as she studied the PokéBalls and finally chose the Teddiursa. Smiling now, she walked back to her spot, twirling the PokéBall in her hand.
“Ryann, come on.�
Bouncing eagerly, the ten year old swooped down on the capture devices and immediately grabbed the Ponyta. She grinned at Ian and Lisha before scrambling back to her place again.
“Nigel, your turn,� Rose smiled as he slid up, looking at his choices. Finally, he decided on Seel and hopped back.
“Sylvie.�
The slick and agile girl scooted up, eyes locked on the ghostly PokéBall in front of her. In a flash, it was gone; the Misdreavus was now hers.
“Mark and Caesar.�
Both boys walked to the front and picked up a PokéBall on either side. Spearow and Sandshrew had disappeared from the list.
“Mickey, come on up!� Rose chuckled at her own joke.
Mickey swallowed nervously and scooted up to the table. A lightning bolt on one of the devices caught his eye. He picked it up and walked back, tripping and dropping the PokéBall. A Mareep shot out from the laser, bleating. Embarrassed, he scooped the device back up and jogged over with the Mareep at his heels.
“Dustin!�
The cool eyed boy walked up casually, and immediately snatched up the Bug PokéBall, receiving the Pinsir inside.
“Ian, your turn!� Rose called, watching as he chose between Poison or Psychic. The battle was won with Psychic as his choice. Grinning, he patted Lisha’s shoulder. “Go on, girl. The Poison’s waiting for you.�
“Lisha,� Rose watched her head turn towards her.
She took a breath, let it out, and walked towards where the steps had been. Skimming her fingers along the tabletop, she found the device, warm underneath her hand. Smiling, she lifted it up and walked back to where Ian was tapping his foot.
“Now that you have your Pokémon, you may go to the first Gym in Rowan City, about five miles from here. The path is mostly forest with a field, a great chance to gather more friends.� She smiled, watching them. “Just to get on the right foot, I’ll give you twenty minutes outside to get to know your Pokémon.�

Yells of “Go!� were all there was for a few seconds as the kids released their new Pokémon. There was the unmistakable whinny of a young Ponyta, the shrill call of a Seel, a caw of the Spearow, a few clicks from a Sandshrew, and a whole lot that just jumbled up in her head. Lisha flicked the PokéBall in her hand and felt the hot laser shoot out then back in. Something small, but a bit heavy hit the ground in front of her.
“Ni, ni.� The small Nidoran Male looked up at her, eyes shining brightly. He couldn’t see the eyes of his new Trainer but the smile was warm, something he was supposed to look for.
“Nidoran Male,� she recited, looking down to where he’d be. Kneeling, she reached carefully, stroking his small snout. “That’s too long, huh? How about something new?� She traced the nose up to his ears, scratching right behind them. “Scree. Strange and mysterious.�
“Ni, ni!� he chirruped happily, bouncing on his hind legs. Smiling, he rubbed up against her pant leg, being careful not to spike her.
“Hey, girl,� Ian walked up with the Drowzee waddling behind. He whistled appreciatively at the Nidoran Male. “Nice one you got there. I got a Drowzee.�
“I know. I could feel it.� She smiled up at him then to where energy radiated off of the large Psychic.
“Yeah. Name’s Pendule, Pen for short. Means clock or pendulum in French I believe.� He rubbed the Psychic’s ears and looked down at the Nidoran gazing up at him. “I know you give names to everything. What’d you decide?�
“Scree.�
“Simple, and strange,� he said, petting the Poison type’s head.
“River.� Dustin was suddenly on her, shoving her hard into Ian. He managed to catch them both and glared up at the fuming child. “You weren’t supposed to make it.� His attention was on her, not on Scree who was growling and standing in front of her. “They felt sorry for you, didn’t they? Giving a near perfect score for the blind kid. Anything to get a kick out of it.�
“Hill, you’re mistaken. I studied long and hard for three years for this. If they were trying to pass me for my…condition, I’d be suing them.� She growled but noticed the large energy source next to him. “You got the Pinsir.�
“Yeah.� He glared down at her. “His name’s Massacre.� Dustin’s eyes traveled down to the Poison at her feet. Laughter burst from him as he watched the Nidoran growl at his Bug. “Your puny lil’ thing doesn’t stand a chance. And neither does yours, Feeney.�
Ian snarled and nearly tackled the boy but Lisha put an arm out.
“He’s not worth our time, Ian. Let’s go.� She turned around, Scree at her heels.
“I’ll be seeing you, Lisha,� Dustin yelled. “Then you’ll be sorry that you even considered doing this!�
Lisha walked faster, causing Ian to jog to keep up with her as well as poor Pen.
“He ticks me off. One test and he tries to kill me,� she growled, finding the quiet of the hallway peaceful. Scree rubbed her leg again, purring a bit. She absently rubbed his head, leaning her own against the wall. “Maybe I shouldn’t have tried.�
“You’re going to let him discourage you?� Ian asked suddenly, rounding on her. “Take you down like this? Has your brain turned off for this minute?�
She looked over at him out of habit then back down. “Guess it has.� She rubbed her temples with the heel of her hand. “I think it’s back on. And I regret what I said just a minute ago. Thanks though.�
“Hey, what are friends for?� He smiled, placing an arm around her shoulders. “Come on, we have to celebrate,� his gaze turned to the two Pokémon, “and get to know these guys better.�

Ian led her back to the room where her father waited expectantly. The minute she got there, he lifted her in a tight embrace, laughing.
“Lisha, you just made history!� He laughed again and set her down. “I knew you could do it.�
“Even though you doubted me at times,� she chuckled and tossed the small device in her hands.
“Yeah, yeah.� Drake ran a hand through his hair and turned to Ian. “Great job, boy. Studying with her paid off.�
“I think it was me who did it,� he said, getting a slap to the head from Lisha. “Ow!�
Lisha grinned and dodged a smack from him as he swung. She countered playfully with a headlock, making sure to keep a grip on the PokéBall just in case it was breakable though she doubted it.
“Okay, okay, you win,� he gave up, finding that struggling was not the best idea.
She grinned, letting him go. Scree’s claws clicked on the tile floor as he approached Drake.
“You got the Poison then,� he said, squatting down painfully to stroke the Nidoran’s head.
“His name’s Scree,� she said, kneeling down as well.
“This is Pendule or Pen,� Ian said, waving his hand towards the puffing Drowzee. “He’s a bit out of shape though,� he admitted, patting his head.
Drake smiled at the Psychic as he bent over to catch his breath. “I’d say it needs some exercise.�
Ian chuckled and patted the recovering Pen on the back. “Should go tell Mom. Haven’t heard from me all day.�
“I called her for you, Ian. She’ll be waiting with your supplies when we get back.� Drake looked up, rose. “Professor Rose.�
“Drake, may I speak with you for a moment?� She nodded to the two kids and led him to a corner.
“Thank you for letting Lisha do the test,� he said immediately. “I probably won’t ever be able to repay you.�
“Think nothing of it. I saw potential in her, determination. We can’t let it go to waste,� Rose said sincerely. “She’ll make a good Trainer, dangerous one if I might add.� She smiled and chuckled at Drake’s puzzled look. “Her hearing is probably better than a Growlithe’s. That ability is dangerous to even the most experienced Trainers. She’ll be able to hear the attack before the Pokemon can use it, and counter it with one of her own. Her Battle Test proves that. Defeated the opponent in three minutes, half what it took the others.�
“She’s trained hard.� Drake watched as a few kids walked over to the two, congratulating. “Nearly everyday since she left the hospital. It means as much to her as life itself.�
“She wishes to prove. To show that she can do what others refused to believe. And she will.� Rose turned to Drake. “And she’ll do it. I can tell you that. Her ambition won’t stop, no matter what.
“Yeah,� he sighed, rubbing his hands over his face.
Rose watched as Lisha picked up Scree and stroke him. “You should get going. They’ll want to get started right away.�
“Thanks again, Rose.� Drake nodded and walked back to the two children. “Ready, you two?�
Both nodded excitedly, impatient to get going.

Scree hopped ahead, turning back to wait for the other three. Nose twitching, he leaped ahead, sticking his head into a hollow log and looking around. An angry mother Sentret screeched and waved her paws in the cramped space. The Nidoran bolted, running to hide behind the bulk of Pen.
“This place is supposed to have lots of Pokémon in it,� Ian commented, watching as a Caterpie crawled slowly up a tree. A Ratatta sprinted across the worn down path made by the first Trainers.
Lisha nodded, shifting her bag. It had only been about maybe an hour since they’d started. Ian, she knew, was looking for a Mankey to catch. Herself, she wanted a Stantler or Girafarig.
Screeches brought her back and she stared around out of habit. Ian tensed up, reaching for a PokéBall. The screeches grew louder as blurs went around their heads. Pen held out his hands in defense and Scree let his barbs spring up. Zubats flapped down, spiraling in their flight. Lisha ducked as the noise got close to her head, felt Ian drop down beside her. Pen growled but stayed where he was, watching as the blind bats flew off.
“You okay?� Ian helped her back to her feet, looking around the now silent forest.
“Yeah,� Lisha said, brushing the dust off. “Let’s keep going.�
Scree walked with his spikes at attention, gazing around the forest. Pen walked in front, eyes sharp as a falcon’s shifting from side to side. A Meowth scrambled away as they passed.
Rumbles started rising from the ground, tremors following. Pen toppled over, tripping Ian and Lisha. Scree started squealing in alarm as all of them struggled to untangle themselves. The tremors started to get more serious, causing dead branches to shake loose.
“What’s going on?� Lisha had to yell to be heard as the rumbling had turned to a shrieking.
“I don’t know! This doesn’t seem like an earthquake!� Ian yelled back, covering his head from the barrage of branches.
As quickly as it started, it stopped. Scree had crawled into Lisha’s backpack, trembling. Pen had been smart and had scrambled into a hollowed out tree trunk.
Ian struggled to calm his breathing and his pounding heart. He pushed himself up shakily to his feet and watched as two eyes peeked out of his friend’s bag. “Come on.� He forced himself to be steady when he helped her up. She was shaking as well, looking around absently.
“What was that?� she asked, jumping a bit when Pen waddled over, looking frightened.
“I don’t know.� He bent over, picked up her sunglasses. He handed them to her, taking a shuddering breath. “We should get going. Just in case that happens again.�
“Yeah,� Lisha scanned the area with her ears, finding nothing unusual. She felt Scree crawl over her shoulder and into her arms. “Let’s go.�

[ZeldaFan20]

:yes: Definitely a great chapter! So you CAN choose from more than just three types, impressive! It's too bad she didn't start with Ponyta, like she wanted, but Scree should be a very good partner for her.

[Lady Vulpix]

This keeps getting interesting. Don't worry, AG. As long as you keep writing this fic, I'll keep reading it. It's great! :yes:
I wonder what that was. I guess I'll find out as the fic goes on.
By the way, great sig!

Oh, I have a fic of my own (http://www.pokemasters.net/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9508) now. It took me ages to decide to post it, but there it is. Well, chapter 1, at least.

[Mew Trainer Rose]

This is a great fic! ^_^ I love how she's overcome her blindness to pursue her dream.
The Nidoran's cute, Nidos are probably my favorite pure-poison type. I'll be interesting to see how this fic progresses.

[Wolfsong]

Wow, so far great work. Another fic to be added to my reading list ^_^. Keep up the great work.

Edit: typo

[ZeldaFan20]

RJ: :confused: Is everything okay? You haven't posted in a while. I'm worried :(.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

I post a chapter once a week. Balances out homework and the story. The latest I'll ever post a chapter is Monday for this week because of a three day weekend! Stay tuned and pay attention to my sig for small spoilers *wink wink*

Just to make this post not seem too spammy, these are the awards that you good ppl nominated the Fic for:

Best Male Character in a Leading Role - Ian
Best Female Character in a Leading Role - Lisha
Most Detailed
Best Description Scene
and Most Promising FanFic

Thanks you guys. Makes me feel all special inside for ppl to really care about this Fic ^-^

[ZeldaFan20]

:confused: Now, answer me this: why is it that I am the ONLY one posting here now? It's like no one even cares anymore. I'm not putting anyone down or something, but, it does kinda make people feel a little down. Know what I'm saying? :(

[Otto=ottO]

Well answer me this, where's the next chappy I'm supposed to reply to.
Damn I want more.
Give me. Or I'll Tomaco you and sic a whole bunch of navenous sheep on you.

[ZeldaFan20]

:confused: I'm not sure, really. But I hope it comes soon :D.

[Mystic Latios]

Good story so far. So when is the next chapter going to be posted?:)

[ZeldaFan20]

I'm mostly wondering why the author hasn't been seen on this sight for the past few weeks :o.

[ZeldaFan20]

:( I can't believe that someone, who writes a Fanfic as good as this one, would not even bother to keep writing it. It's really quite sad, you know?:(

[ZeldaFan20]

Hey, I just had an interesting idea: maybe we could help the author along if we took turns finishing the story...not the WHOLE story; just a chapter or two?...................Then again,...that would kinda be a bad idea, wouldn't it?

[Otto=ottO]

Lets see, the Person has not been on for three months. Therefore, either there has been an unfortunate accident or the person was grounded, which might also count as an unfortunate accident. *e-mails person*

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

*runs in and tries to slide to a stop but ends up sliding to much* *overbalances and falls down* Okay... I'm back for the time being!

I'm sorry for not mentioning to you faithful readers that I might disappear for a while. I did that before for about... four or five months.

I had a bit of trouble with a chapter and kinda withdrew. I'm sorry to worry you guys. I'll have to be extra nice this weekend.

Thanks for keeping the story up. Not many people would do that. I'll have the next chapter tomorrow, next day, or maybe today if we're all lucky.

[ZeldaFan20]

YAY!!!! You're back!! What kept you?! I was afraid that you'd abandoned the story! It's great to know you're still around!

By the way, what I said about continuing the story FOR you.........I wasn't really being serious---just to let you know.:no:

[Otto=ottO]

Yeah, we wouldn't be able to write as good as you. Well, I hope you got the message in your e-mail.

When you say dissapear, do you mean from computor, or just TPM?

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Just TPM. I've done it before so don't be surprised if I disappear again in a few more months *grins*

S'all right, Zelda. Can't blame you for trying to keep it alive.

All right, as promised, here it is! The next chapter! (Note: has a few words unsuitable for those who don't listen to what their parents really say)


Chapter 4

She stumbled through the forest, keeping a hand on the small rope she’d slipped around Scree’s neck. Another one of those earthquakes had occurred, separating them and having her being led by her Nidoran through the underbrush.
“Why me?� she asked herself, barely dodging a large branch. Scree pushed through a bush and managed to get tangled in the vines wrapped around it. Lisha kicked at the bush, shaking the vines from his purple body. He scrambled away but stopped short.
“What?� she asked, not feeling his body near hers. She took a step but froze.
A small crying was in the silent air. Listening hard, she slowly turned in a circle, trying to find where the sound was coming from.
To the left, she thought, carefully stepping through the underbrush. The sobs grew louder as she continued. Scree fell in place beside her, being Lisha’s eyes. She grabbed the rope again, letting him lead her. He stopped short, nearly tripping Lisha.
The cries were in front of her, she realized. Carefully, she knelt down, feeling the small bundle of energy in front of her.
Scree watched as the baby screamed loudly, crying for her mother. Arms flailed and the thick tail smacked the ground. Her stocky and short legs kicked out, nearly cracking his skull.
Lisha gently ran a finger down the baby’s face, trailing it down the length of her body. “Little Kangaskhan.� The whisper was soothing and calmed the child. “Barely a year and a half,� she whispered, stroking the child’s black cap. Carefully, she slid both hands under the Kangaskhan’s body and lifted her up with a great deal of effort. The baby wasn’t exactly a lightweight but shifting her to rest on her hip made it easier.
She had stopped crying and whimpered now. Shaking, the little Kangaskhan gripped Lisha’s neck. Her head buried in the soft material of her shirt and the rest of her body settled in.
Smiling, she rubbed the child’s back and dropped to the ground, lying down. “Ian will find us,� she said to Scree. “Let’s just wait.�
The Nidoran crawled on her stomach and curled up. He watched her for a moment, before turning to the baby Kangaskhan. She clung to Lisha, silent tears running down the gray-brown face. Sighing softly, he laid his head on her shirt and dozed for a minute.
Rumbles erupted from the ground. Lisha scrambled up, catching Scree as he fell from her sudden movement. The baby started screaming again, the grip tightening around her neck. Tremors knocked her off her feet, having her crashing back down.
Scree clawed free of her arm, desperate to find a way out. He nudged her to her knees, and pushed her to the middle of the area with his head. Struggling for breath, he shoved Lisha to the ground.
The rumbling grew worse as Scree held her down. The Kangaskhan was shrieking her head off, clutching with enough force to strangle Lisha. Gasping, the girl pried the little arms from around her neck and pinned the screaming child underneath her.
The shaking stopped, the air going completely silent except for the Kangaskhan’s screeching. The baby cried, fat tears running down her face and she flailed her arms.
“Hush, baby. Hush now,� Lisha whispered, holding the young Pokémon close. “It’s okay.�
Scree leaned against his Trainer, trembling a bit. She wrapped an arm around the Poison, rocking to help them all. The baby Normal had slowed her wailing, clinging onto the girl.
Both looked up, ears pricked as a rustling came from behind them. “Lisha? Lisha? That you?� Ian popped out of the brush, getting caught on a vine on his way.
“Yeah, it’s me. We’re okay.� She stood up, stumbling under the heavyweight in her arms.
“Man Lisha, you’re a mess.� Ian walked up quickly, wiped some mud off her face.
“Kang!� The baby swung out, catching the other Trainer in the gut. He doubled over, wheezing.
“You okay, Ian?� She knelt down beside his gasping form. “I guess she doesn’t like being scared.�
“Yeah.� It came out as a short gasp. Ian rubbed his sore stomach, looking at the shaking child.
“Drow, drowzee!� Pen called out as he half carried, half dragged a struggling Magby in his paws.
His breath back, Ian looked at the two baby Pokémon. “Something’s not right here. What are two half grown Pokémon doing without parents anymore?�
“I don’t know but those earthquakes aren’t natural. There’s never been an earthquake here before and there’s no cracks.� She shifted the Kangaskhan so that the Normal type rested her head on Lisha’s shoulder. There was a change in the temperature, making the air around them cooler. “Night’s coming. We need to find a place for camp.�
Ian looked up through the branches of the trees and found she was right. “I hate when you do that.�

The house was too quiet for his comfort. With Lisha gone, nothing interesting would happen for a while. She wouldn’t be able to call home until she reached Rowan City, another two days journey.
Drake looked inside her bedroom, finding it neat. A small plant sat on the dresser, a little flower budding. He sighed heavily, knowing he’d miss her.
A piece of paper stuck out from under her pillow. He lifted the pillow up, pulled out the worn paper.
It was a picture, an old picture. In it was Lisha when she was four, himself, and Maya, his wife. A Raichu stood between them, holding Lisha on her shoulders. He had to sit down, stare at the photograph. She still has this, he thought. Drake had forgotten all about the picture, had one himself actually. “She kept it all this time,� he sighed, placing the photo back under her pillow.
Drake walked back to the kitchen, took out a drink, and sat at the table. It bothered him though. In the picture, his daughter had looked nothing like her mother. But now, she had nearly everything of her mother. Taking a sip from the can, he smiled to himself. “If she’s just like her mother,� he said to no one in particular, “then she’ll be one hell of a Trainer.�

The small fire had died down completely, leaving only small ashes glowing. Lisha stared blindly up at the sky, trying to imagine what it looked like. She remembered what stars looked like, vaguely. Sighing, she rolled over, disturbing Scree. He snorted, half asleep, and curled back up beside her. She reached down, stroking his muzzle. The baby was curled up in a blanket, snoozing.
Rustling made her head snap up. She stared around absently, listening. Nothing else caught her attention and she laid back down on her mat. Something sharp suddenly pierced into her arm, making her jerk then slip down. A haze drifted over mind as her body numbed. “Scree,� she whispered, finding her voice weak and barely audible. Hands grabbed her, pulling Lisha up and dragging her through the brush.

Pen snapped awake, scrambling to his small feet. Something was watching them, staring. He reached behind him, grabbing Ian’s shoulder. Desperately, the Drowzee shook hard. “Drowzee! Drowzee!�
“Pen, get off,� Ian mumbled sleepily, rolling to face him. “What’s wrong?�
Instead of replying, he slapped Ian and ran to where Lisha should’ve been sleeping. He found Scree, sleeping too deeply for comfort. “Drowzee!�
Magby had started wailing, one long screech after another.
“Pen, what the,� he began, and then saw that the blankets were flat. “Lisha? Lisha!� He jumped up, sprinting to the spot. Ian lifted up Scree, watching him barely twitch as he picked him up. A red spot had formed on his side. “Scree? Scree?� Ian checked his pulse, finding it just a bit slow.
“Drowzee,� Pen whispered, hands moving in a mystical way. Scree’s eyes fluttered open, focusing on Ian’s face.
“Ni! Ni!� he suddenly sprang up, twisting his body around. “Ni ran!� The Nidoran hit the ground, stumbled, but kept his footing. He looked around in fear, breath coming out in gasps.
“Scree, you’re okay. Where’s Lisha?� he asked, not really expecting a reply he could understand. “And where’s the Kangaskhan?�
The Nidoran calmed himself, pawed the ground, and sniffed. “Ni,� he growled, finding another scent with Lisha’s. He pointed, then bolted into the brush, Ian and Pen following.

So hazy. What’s going on? She pushed herself up, shaking her head to clear it. A throbbing had started in her arm, moving through the rest of her body. Cold metal pressed into her throat.
“Get back down, girl, or I’ll kill you.� The voice was cold, nearly as cold as the knife pressed to her neck.
“All right,� she whispered, sinking to her knees.
“Don’t talk, girl,� he said, pressing the knife harder to her throat, making a bit of blood dribbled out. “What’re you doing in the forest?�
Lisha stayed quiet, wondering if she should answer or stay quiet.
“Answer me!� he screamed.
“I’m a new Trainer. Please, just let me go,� she pleaded, swallowing.
“I don’t think so. You’ve seen too much.� He nearly slit her throat but noticed her eyes. Milky blue. “Or maybe not. You’re blind, aren’t you?�
Nodding hurt but she didn’t think she could talk. Fear was bubbling in her stomach but she stayed calm. She had to.
“Times have changed then. They wouldn’t even consider someone blind to go for a license. But then again, I don’t have one. I don’t need one. Team Rocket’s been kind to me.� He shoved her to the ground, watching as she stumbled back to her hands and knees. “But still, I shouldn’t let you live. You’ve heard too much now.� He nearly cut her, was an inch off, but a long screech rose in the air, startling him. The baby Kangaskhan waddled in, screaming at the top of her lungs. She toppled over and rolled down the slope, still screaming.
Free of the knife, Lisha kicked out with one foot. She felt the connection and smiled. A dull thud caught her attention. The knife, she thought, crawling. Wincing when something razor sharp pricked her palm, she grabbed the hilt and waited.
Nothing happened. Must’ve hit his head on a rock, she thought. The baby’s wailing continued, staying in one spot from what her ears could tell. Please be over, please be over, she prayed.

Ian crashed through the brush, carrying the shaking Magby. “Scree! Are you sure we’re going the right way?�
“Ni,� he called back, crawling under a log. He popped out with some bark clinging to his spines.
Pen puffed behind them, moving as fast as he could. Drowzees weren’t meant for long distances, just sprints.
There was light ahead, not the sun but lamplight. Something was crying over there, behind the trees.
“It’s the Kangaskhan! Good job, Scree!� Ian yelled, watching as the Poison disappeared beyond the brush. Running still, he picked up the pace and burst out over a slope. A startled cry left him as he landed wrong and tumbled down the hill. Pen slid down behind him, catching the Magby that had gone flying.
Scree was at the bottom already, checking the baby Normal type before running on to where Lisha was curled up. He nudged her with his nose, watched as she lifted her head up.
“Man, Lisha,� Ian said, kneeling down in front of her. A bruise had started forming on her face, right under her eye. A small bit of blood made little rivers down her neck, staining the neckline of her shirt. “You okay?�
“Yeah.� Her voice shook when she said it. She dropped the knife to the ground and tried to calm down.
Pen, grumbling a bit, carried a screeching Kangaskhan with him. He set the little one beside Lisha and collapsed on his back, panting.
“No one will stand in Team Rocket’s way!�
The ground started to growl angrily. Both babies began to scream as loud as they could but the rumbling earth drowned them out.
“Oh, crap,� Ian muttered, staring out as the earth began to crack right in front of them.

[Jon UKX]

Great chapter RJ, after a five month absent your quality of writing hasn't changed at all (that's a good thing!), if Team Rocket think Lisha is going to be a pushover then they are wrong.

[Otto=ottO]

It's a bit hard after reading the other chapters so much earlier, but still great. So, either Teamrocket is trying to flush all the old pokemon out to just grab them by the bundles, or get all the baby pokemon without anyone in the way or both.

Is the Team Rocket guy still there?

[ZeldaFan20]

They're right! It IS a great chapter!! Two new baby Pokemon join the party, huh? I wonder if Lisha and Ian will be able to find their mothers (although I'm also wondering what the mothers will do to THEM). And that scene with the Team Rocket member,---way cool!! You can still write as good as anyone else---only better!:yes:

[mistysakura]

Thanks for continuing the fic, I really appreaciate it. As for other comments, everyone else already posted them, so what's the point? :confused:

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Jon - Thankies!
Otto - You'll find out what they're trying to do and yes, he is still there. Thanks!
Zelda - The mother's fates will be revealed! Thankies!
ms - *laughs* Conservative! Thanks!

Coming back seems to be helping me with this. As a little 'Sorry' gift for being gone so long, I've got the next chapter now. So... enjoy!


Chapter 5

“No one will beat Team Rocket!� the voice called out again.
The crack in the ground grew bigger as it got closer to the group. Claws were unsheathed from the fissure and gripped the edge. Reddish eyes peeked out as the Pokémon climbed out.
“It’s a Sandslash,� Ian said in awe, watching the mouse stand up and glare at them. Its claws gleamed in the bright lights as it stared at them, growling.
A swarm of Bug type Pokémon raced down the hill and, blinded by the lights, ran right into the gash in the earth. Clicking and something that sounded like a scream followed them down. Nets that erupted from the ground immediately pinned those that could fly down.
“PokéBalls can catch only one Pokémon at a time. But Team Rocket has invented this way to supply our Boss.� The member walked out from the shadows, laying a hand on the snarling Sandslash. “Those two babies you’ve got there, they must’ve been some children from the Pokémon the other day.� He smiled slightly. “How about handing them over with those other two you’ve got there.�
Scree growled and stepped forward, putting himself between the Kangaskhan and the Sandslash. Pen rolled so that he was on his feet again and took his fighting stance.
The Rocket laughed at the two creatures. “Look at this, Claws. We’ve got a couple of fighters here.�
The Sandslash smiled slightly and clicked his front claws together.
“So, it’s a fight you want.� The Rocket waited for his Sandslash to walked onto the field. “Claws, let’s show them the true power of Team Rocket!�
“Sand!� the mouse called, charging.
Scree stepped up to bat, spines standing straight up. He tossed his head around and charged at the running Ground type. Both hit head on but the Nidoran was overpowered. He went sailing through the air, landing hard on his side.
“Scree!� Lisha stumbled over to where he had landed, cradled his aching body. He looked up at her and smiled weakly. “It’s okay, boy.�
Pen took the fight from there, hands outstretched. The Drowzee moved his hands, swaying from side to side. “Drowzee, drowzee, drowzee,� he said, his voice echoing almost.
Claws flattened his ears against his head and suddenly burrowed into the ground. Pen stopped his Hypnosis and nervously looked at the ground beneath his feet. He couldn’t tell where the Pokémon would end up. A small rumble rose from the ground and the Sandslash shot up from the earth behind Pen. The Psychic barely had turned around when the mouse swung out with his back leg, catching him across the head. Stumbling, the dazed Drowzee caught himself in time for an array of jabs to his body. An uppercut sent him flying a few feet away. Battered, Pen stayed down, eyes closed from the pain.
The Sandslash walked up, eyes glowing in hatred. He raised a clawed paw, placed it so that the points of his claws were pressed against the Psychic’s throat. The vein under his claws pulsed heavily.
“Team Rocket will never be defeated. Claws,� the man said, “finish it.�
“Slash,� he nodded, lifting his claw an inch up.
“Kanga!�
The mouse looked up as a tree was hurled through the air. He jumped out of the way as it shattered in the spot he was standing in.
A huge Kangskhan emerged from the woods, breathing deeply as she slid down the slope. Lisha froze as the large Pokémon stamped by her. Ian watched as the creature neared the snarling Sandslash, and gasped.
Blood ran down from a gaping wound in the Normal’s side. The blood had formed into small puddles in her footprints. Her right eye seemed to be missing but she didn’t seem to be affected.
The baby Kangaskhan stopped crying. She watched the larger Kangaskhan with wide eyes. “Kanga! Kangaskhan!� she called out, small tears running down her face.
The creature stopped, looked back at the baby, and nodded. She stepped over Pen’s recovering body and roared at the mouse. The Sandslash snarled and charged at the injured Pokémon. She swung an arm, missed the Sandslash’s skull, and screamed in agony as the Ground type drilled his claws in the thick hide.
A snarl left her throat as she grabbed the prickly rodent. Roaring, the creature threw the Sandslash about twenty feet. The mouse hit hard but was back on his feet quickly. In a flash, he was in front of the dying Pokémon, slashing out with both arms. The Kangaskhan dodged and fell over from exhaustion. Her tail whipped out and knocked the rodent to the ground. She raised it and brought it down as hard as she could on Claws’ head. A sickening crack split the night air. Again, she raised her tail and crushed the dead mouse’s head.
The baby waddled over to the still Kangaskhan, nuzzled the paw. The larger one gently rubbed a claw across the little one’s face, wiping away the tears.
“Kangaskhan,� she whispered softly, wincing from the wound. Weakly, she patted the child’s head and closed her eyes. The arm fell limply to the ground and she was still.
“Kanga. Kanga!� the small Pokémon screeched, shaking the other one. No response came as she continued to lay still.
Lisha walked over, stepping in the mixed blood as she knelt down beside the child. The baby gripped the girl’s pants, shoving her face in the rough denim. Hot tears came through the material, soaking her pants. Scree hung limply from under her arm, almost to tears himself.
“That was your mother, wasn’t it little one?� she said softly, holding the Kangaskhan. She felt her nod through the jeans. “It’ll be all right.�
Ian stumbled over, returning Pen to his PokéBall for a nice rest. “He ran,� was all he could say.
Lisha looked up at his voice, nodded slowly. She held onto the child as the lamps flickered and died off.

Two mounds with a pile of stones at the head of each were silent. Lisha was sitting beside the baby, a hand on her shoulder. Ian stood a bit ways off, the Magby, a recovered Pen and Scree sitting on either side of him.
The Kangaskhan almost started to cry again but Lisha bent down and whispered to her, “She’s watching you now. Your mother would want you to move on.�
“Kanga,� the child said. The girl lifted up the Normal type, shifting her so that she carried the baby on her back.
Scree took the lead, limping a bit from last night. Ian cradled the Magby while Pen waddled beside the two Trainers.
“So, you keeping the Kangaskhan?� he asked, watching Lisha as she stepped carefully on a root.
“Yeah.� She shifted the child, wiggled a bit so that the grip around her neck was looser. “Her name’s Kiore.�
“You already named her?� Ian asked, ducking from a limb.
“We decided last night while you fell asleep,� she answered, smiling a bit. Kiore let out a small, happy cry.
“Well, I decided to keep the Magby,� Ian said, patting the baby Fire type. “His name is Firebolt.�
Lisha’s smile grew a bit wider. Her sunglasses glinted in the sunlight that streamed in through the branches.
The trees thinned out and opened to a huge field. Long grass as high as Ian’s waist swayed in the breeze. Bushes dotted the field as well as soft pink and purple flowers. A small herd of Tauros looked up and retreated to the forest.
The grass started to rustle in one spot, catching all of their attention. Ian backed up a bit, watching as it moved closer to them then stopped.
“What is it?� he whispered, turning to Lisha.
“It’s small. An Electric type is my guess from the energy,� she mumbled, setting Kiore on a tree stump behind her.
A bright green flash ran at them, moving faster than Ian could follow. Lisha, though, pivoted away and listened as the Electrike slid to a stop, growling at them.
“Scree, take it down!� she called out.
“Ni!� The Nidoran leaped up and charged quickly. The Electrike had just managed to set himself back up for another attack when the Poison rammed into him. Scree brought his head back and then jabbed out with his horn, smacking the green side.
Panting heavily, the Electric type stumbled back and tripped over a root. He stayed down, eyes closed.
Lisha tossed an extra PokéBall at the panting and waited for the small ‘bing’. She smiled and nodded at the stunned boy. Scree trotted up with the full PokéBall in his small mouth and placed it in Lisha’s hand. She rubbed his purple head and hooked the capture device to her belt.
“Let’s go,� she said, picking the Kangaskhan back up.
Ian stared after her as she waded through the grass. “Oh, sure, take advantage of a startled person!� he called out, jogging to catch up.
The Trainers and Pokémon shuffled through the tall grass, Scree having to jump up every now and then to see above the plants.
No one heard the creature or felt it. With a cry, the white-clawed Pokémon leaped out from behind a bush, a long stick clutched in her paws. Pen screamed and fell over from surprised. Swiftly, she recovered from the attack and swung the stick out, hitting Pen in the side.
Ian jumped back along with Lisha and Scree as the white and blood red creature twirled the stick and held it out in front of her, challenging Pendule. The Drowzee got back up to his feet, faced his armed opponent.
“It’s a Zangoose,� Ian whispered in awe.
“I never felt it or heard it,� Lisha admitted.
“Yeah, neither did I. Pen!� he yelled, “Hypnosis!�
“Drow,� he nodded, held out his hands. Swaying, he flexed his fingers. “Drowzee, drowzee, drowzee,� his voice echoed like before.
The Zangoose snarled in anger as her mind started to float easily. She shook her head and swung her stick. Pen ducked and jumped backwards, not losing his beat as he continued. The Normal took a step, stumbled, but again attacked. Missing again infuriated her and she swung, overbalancing herself. She fell over but refused to stay down. Her mind told her to turn off but she was still going, pushing herself back up.
“Pen! Pound!�
He nodded and balled a fist. Swinging, he knocked her across the head, knocking the fighting Zangoose out.
Smiling, Ian tossed a PokéBall at the unconscious Pokémon, successfully catching her. Grinning like an idiot, he picked up the device and slapped hand to paw with Pendule.
Lisha rolled her eyes. “If you’re done celebrating, I would like to lighten my load here,� she called out at the two, gesturing with her head at Firebolt who hung on her leg.
Ian chuckled and scooped up the Magby. “Sorry, girl.� He smiled and walked ahead of them.

Dusk was calm as the team finally reached the end of the forest. Ian whistled at the huge city, the lights just starting to come on. “Another half hour and we’ll be at the PokéCenter.�
“Finally,� Lisha grunted, shifting the baby yet again. “Kiore’s getting heavier by the second.�
“Kanga!� she called out, laughing slightly.
Scree trotted ahead of them, waiting while they caught up with him. His limp was still there but seemed to be healing. Pen was resting in his PokéBall, tired from walking the whole day after a hard night.
They entered the streets, a few people staring at them. Ian grinned as he noticed that most were staring at Lisha.
“You know, Lisha, most people are staring at you,� he commented.
“Let them stare,� she said, grinning. “Kiore will entertain them.�
“I don’t think it’s just Kiore.�
“Then what?�
“Your sunglasses. Most normal people don’t wear sunglasses at night,� he snickered.
She laughed, making the child on her back giggle.
The PokéCenter lights were a welcome to all of them. Ian led her inside and looked around the cozy waiting room.
“Welcome to the PokéCenter! May I help you?� Nurse Joy chirped happily.
“Uh, yeah,� Ian smiled tiredly. “We need our Pokémon healed and a room, please.�
“All right, I’ll check to see if we have an available room. Just put your Pokémon on the counter.�
Lisha gently set the baby on a chair and picked up Scree’s and the Electrike’s PokéBalls. She handed them to Ian and rocked on her toes as Nurse Joy relayed their room information.
“We’re in Room 37,� he said, smiling a bit as she tried to search the room. “The phones are over this way.� Chuckling, he strode over to the pay phones, waiting for her to join him. Kiore walked right behind her and smiled as Firebolt dropped from Ian’s shoulder and onto the floor.
Lisha did the number herself, letting her fingers glide over the buttons. Once the ringing stopped, she smiled. “Hey, Dad.�
“Lisha! I wasn’t expecting a call from you so soon. Rose has been telling me about the earthquakes in the forest and such and,� he stopped, got a good look at her face. “What happened?�
Don’t worry him, she thought. “Oh, I tripped over a root and hit a rock. A sharp branch cut my neck. No big deal,� she lied quickly.
“All right,� Drake said, watching her. It was harder to tell if she was lying or not because of the sunglasses. “How’s it going, Ian?�
“Good.� Ian knew Lisha’s father was just talking to him to see if both of them were lying. “Caught a few Pokémon along the way.�
“What kinds did you guys catch?� Drake smiled as his daughter bent over and lifted, with great effort, a baby Kangaskhan.
“Her name’s Kiore and I caught an Electrike.�
Ian picked up the Magby with ease and grinned. “Firebolt and an armed Zangoose.�
“Good job. I won’t hold you guys up any longer. Call me when you win that Badge.�
“Sure. ‘Bye, Dad.�
“See you.� The screen clicked off as both hung up.
Ian took his turn and called his mother. She, too, had been worried about the earthquakes but cheered when he told her he caught a few Pokémon. Mrs. Feeney whispered a suggestion to her son, getting a burst of laughter from Lisha. The good humour continued even when Ian hung up, his face still red from embarrassment.
“Oh, that was priceless,� she said, getting her breath back.
“You didn’t have to overhear,� he growled, fiddling with the keys in his hand.
Room 37 was a smaller room than most of the others they’d heard of. There was only one bunk bed and a walk-in bathroom. The walls were painted a light blue colour as well as the sheets on the beds.
“I guess you want the bottom bunk,� Ian stated, shutting the door behind him.
“There’s bunk beds?� she asked, staring around the room.
“Uh, yeah.� He hit his head with the palm of his hand. I can’t believe I forgot she can’t see, he thought.
She found the beds by herself, sat down on the lower one. Lisha kicked off her shoes put her sunglasses in a pocket on her bag. Kiore crawled up beside her, curled up underneath her arm. She patted the baby’s head and laid down on the bed.
Ian undid the laces on his shoes and placed them along the wall. He picked up Firebolt, turned off the lights, and climbed up the ladder. The Magby made a little bed at the foot of the bed, settled in. Sighing, he listened as the others slept. The Fire type started to snore softly, one of the only sounds in the room.
A crying sound surprised him. He hung over the side of the bed and looked down at his friend. She was asleep but the Kangaskhan was sobbing, clinging to Lisha. Ian watched as Lisha rolled onto her back, bringing the child to a rest on top of her. The little one, tears still falling, quieted down and curled up on her chest.
Smiling, the Trainer settled back down on the upper bed and concentrated on the Gym tomorrow. They use Fighting types, he thought and drifted off.

Edit: Nice catch, misty. It's now gone.

[ZeldaFan20]

That chapter is "priceless" too! The fight scene was a tad gruesome, but it was still exciting!!

Oh,...so poor little Kiore lost her mother, huh? That's so sad :(. I bet Lisha's gonna have to play surrogate PokeMom now...okay, that was a bad joke ;o. Hey, wait a minute...we know what happened to Kiore's mom, but what about Firebolt's mom?!

There will probably be more to come, so I won't ask anymore questions tonight. I'll be in touch. Bye!

[Otto=ottO]

I thought it said they used fire types...

Oh well. I read this yestday and didn't have a chance to post. I'm glad you're getting back on track.

Not much to post on the story though, because I forget..

[CodeR3D]

Great fic!!
I just started reading today and lemme say its coming along great!
Keep up the good work!:yes:

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - Firebolt's mother was captured by Team Rocket. But thanks for asking for other people.
Otto - *grins* Yup, getting back on track for three weeks worth if I had kept it going on.
Code - Thanks, glad you're enjoying this and welcome to the family.

Okay, little news here. I've spared some time to make an Official Website... kinda... thing. It's a free site so I had to make some use of it. The link is the last url in my sig.
Chapter 6 is here and ready for readin! Woah! I'm on a roll now! Here's the next chapter!


Chapter 6

Ian was awaken by a claw poking in the face. Mumbling, he swung out with his free hand and rolled over on his side. The poking continued and he finally opened one eye to focus on Firebolt. “What is it?� he grumbled, turning on his back and propping himself up on one elbow.
“Magby,� the baby wheezed, a small ember disintegrating in his face. Firebolt toddled to the edge of the bed and pointed down.
Yawning, Ian looked over and jumped when Lisha stared up at him. “Lisha!� he yelled when he caught his breath back.
“Sorry, but that was perfect,� she gasped out, laughing.
He climbed down the ladder, the Magby under an arm and pretended to deck her. She ducked out of reach and retreated to the corner by the door where all the other Pokémon were snickering.
Growling, Ian tugged on his shoes and ran a hand through his spiked, brown-red hair for a brush. He looked over to where the others were standing, noticing the Electrike was sitting straight up.
“How long have you been up?� he asked, tying the laces.
“About an hour or two,� she said simply.
He glanced at the clock on the wall. It was only seven thirty. “Doing what?�
“Getting to know Raijuta.�
The Electrike looked up at her expectantly as though waiting for a command. She waved her hand, dismissing him.
“I suggest you do the same thing with the Zangoose. She didn’t seem to like us the other day,� Lisha pointed out.
“Yeah, I’ll do it.� Ian stood up, scooping the Magby up with him. “What’s for breakfast?�

Ian’s breakfast was short since he had to go ‘make friends’ with the Zangoose. The others stayed inside the PokéCenter and ate their meal in peace. Firebolt and Kiore sat on kiddie seats since they couldn’t reach the table from the bench. Pen gobbled up his meal, thus ending the question why he was a little overweight. Scree and Raijuta shared a bowl of PokéFood though the Electric didn’t seem too fond of the idea.
There was a bit of a commotion that had all of them looking up. Ian limped in, carrying a PokéBall in a slashed up hand. He had three distinct claw marks on his face and a few more on his arm. Though Lisha couldn’t actually see what he looked like, she could sure guess.
He dropped in heavily beside Pen who gave a good look at his wounds.
“So, explain to me exactly what happened so I can get a good picture of what you look like at this moment.� Lisha grinned as she said it and took another bite of the pancake she was eating and sharing with the babies.
“Well,� Ian said, not surprised as a dribble of blood raced from a cut in his lip, “let’s say one thing: I’m lucky to be alive.�
“Oh, come on. It wasn’t that bad, was it?� She asked, passing an untouched plate of pancakes over to his voice.
“Oh yeah� was all he said, taking a napkin and pressing it to the cuts on his face. “She was spitting mad when she got out of the PokéBall. I couldn’t even yell over her hisses she was so loud. And she’s fast. I mean, lightning quick. She got my hand first,� he stopped to check the bloody napkin and picked another one for his arm. “Then went for the eyes, which I’m glad she didn’t. Caught me in the face instead. She then got my arm twice and one to my leg. That’s when I returned her finally.� He sighed and looked down at the device on the table. “I don’t think she likes me.�
“It’s not just you,� Lisha said, trying to keep him from thinking he was a bad Trainer. “She doesn’t like any humans. It’s a common thing among some Pokémon who are alone because of humans.� She took another bite of syrup soaked pancake. “Take Kiore for example.� Lisha waved with her hand to the side. “She’s alone because of humans but she was also saved by humans which gives her a different view of things.� Full, she passed the soppy pancakes to Scree and Raijuta who devoured them in six seconds flat. “Raijuta now, didn’t like me at all. I released him and he nearly bit me. But, all it takes is a little warming up to,� Lisha smiled and leaned back. “Just make sure for the first half hour you’re under a steel box.�
“That’s a load of confidence,� he muttered, finishing off his plate. “But, thanks.�
“What are pals for?� Smiling softly, she fixed her sliding sunglasses.
Kiore and Firebolt, both covered with syrup, jumped on Lisha. Ian burst out laughing, making a few other Trainers look over at them. She picked one up at a time and set them on the floor besides Scree and Raijuta’s chairs. Both Pokémon jumped down and began licking the sugar from the children’s faces and hands. In a minute, both were clean but now covered with drool. Pen and Lisha wiped them both down with napkins until they were finally clean.
“We’re going to go explore this city, maybe find out where the Gym is. Want to come?� she asked, picking up Kiore and setting her to a rest on her hip.
“Can’t. Need to get Moro to like me.� He picked up the PokéBall from the table and limped off.
“Well, at least I know what her name is now,� Lisha said to herself. “Come on, guys and gal.�

Kiore waddled down by Lisha’s leg, clutching her jeans. Scree and Raijuta walked on either side of her, acting as guide dogs. Pen carried Firebolt on his shoulders, walking behind the group.
A few people stared at the strange team but kept walking on. The Pokémon stared at the city in wonder, ignoring the bystanders. The buildings were about seven stories tall each and the glass shone in the early morning sunlight.
“Hey, didja here?� a voice to her left asked.
“About what?�
“The new Trainers from Willow Town. Most of them weren’t allowed to go through Willow Forest because of the earthquakes.�
“Yeah, so?�
There were three people talking and by the sound of their voices, all three were around the age of fifteen.
“Well, the earthquakes stopped yesterday! Somethin’ stopped them!� The voice was feminine and soft.
“Your point?� The voice was hard, tough almost.
“Well, only two Trainers made it through the days the earthquakes were happening.�
“Good. Fresh meat for Nash.�
“Hey, excuse us.� Lisha jogged up to where Scree led her, felt their eyes fall on her. She felt the Kangaskhan hide behind her leg as one looked down at her.
“Yeah? What do you want?� the hard voice asked.
“Oh, Rob. Stop being so mean,� one sneered. “Please excuse my friend. He has a mental defect. I’m Tamra.�
Awkwardly, Lisha gripped the girl’s hand and shook.
“I’m Nick,� the other one said, shaking the Trainer’s hand.
Rob, she could feel, was staring her. She shifted uncomfortably from his gaze and smiled as Kiore peeked out from behind her.
“Oh! She’s adorable!� Tamra picked up the baby, cradled her.
The child stiffened but relaxed and let out what sounded like a happy sigh.
“Hmph. You’re excited by the smallest things,� Rob snarled, still staring at Lisha. Something was off about her. “Wait a minute. You’re the blind Trainer, aren’t you?�
“Yes,� Lisha answered carefully, looking to where his voice came from.
“Oh, wow!� Tamra grinned widely and set Kiore back on the ground. “Are you really? Man, that is iced!�
“You going to challenge the Gym Leader, Nash?� Nick asked, watching as she turned her head to face him.
“Not at the moment. I’m waiting for a friend.�
“You should train for a few days. Nash is extra tough. He uses great Fighting type Pokémon,� Nick stated, waving towards the creatures at her feet.
“We’ll fight him like we are,� Lisha said simply.
“All right but we warned ya!� Rob called out as the group headed back to the PokéCenter.

They found Ian in the room, lying on his claimed bed. Moro was sitting cross-legged on the floor, only looking up for a brief moment when they shut the door. Kiore climbed up on Lisha’s bed and fell asleep. Firebolt crawled after her and also drifted off.
Lisha could hear that Ian’s breathing was slow and deep, signaling he was asleep. Grinning, she felt along the beds, finding her bag. She dug through it, finding the sleek item inside. She hid it from her guys as she waved them over.
“All right, guys. Want to learn a way to fight?� she asked the two.
The creatures looked at the other and nudged her leg, signaling a yes.
“Great. Follow me,� she whispered, running and almost hitting the door.
Moro looked up as they left, eyes narrowing. Damn humans.

Taking a deep breath, Ian looked up at the Gym in front of them. He looked over his guys, seeing that Pen was ready but Moro looked ready to slice his throat. He again breathed deeply but this one was a bit shaky. “Ready?� he asked, watching from the corner of his eye as Lisha nodded.
“Ready as I’ll ever be,� she responded, shifting the heavyweight on her side.
Pen pushed open the double doors with his telekinesis, smiling as he waved them inside. Ian stopped, stared at the Drowzee. “When did you learn how to do that?�
Smirking, the Psychic waved his hand dismissively.
It was dim inside, the only light was a single bulb suspended in the middle of the room.
“Who enters Rowan City Gym?� a voice boomed out, making the teams jump.
“Trainers from Willow Town. Lisha River.�
“And Ian Feeney.�
“The only Trainers to make it out of Willow Forest.� Boots clomped on the sleek floor as the shadows fell away. A huge man in his late twenties stared them down, muscles rippling all over his body. His face went into a snarl as he glared down at the tiny children. “You want a Gym Badge? Well, pick who’ll go first. I’ll be waiting over there.� He jerked his head to the shadows behind him and rejoined them quickly.
“Rock, Paper, Scissors?� Ian asked, looking over at her.
“Sure,� she shrugged, holding out a fist.
“Rock,� Ian began.
“Paper,� Lisha called.
“Scissors!� they both yelled, throwing out their hidden hands.
“Paper covers Rock. Come on guys.� He waited for Pen and Moro to follow him before disappearing into the dark.
“Kanga,� Kiore cried, clutching the girl’s pants.
She looked down at the child, smiled softly. “It’s okay, baby.� Sighing, she sat down and pulled the Kangaskhan into her lap. “Good luck, Ian.�
The group waited in the small amount of light, straining to hear any sounds that signaled a fight.
“It’s going to be a long while before we know anything,� she muttered, holding onto the child.
Raijuta and Scree nodded wondering if Lisha’s fight tactics actually worked. They would find out after Ian was done and came back. If he ever did.

[mistysakura]

Nice chapters, though I did notice

Lisha, though, pivoted away and watched the Electrike slide to a stop, growling at them would require Lisha to be able to see. That's just minor though.
The flow of this fic is very good, but you might want to describe the settings a bit more. I really like how the characters aren't described, but you get a ffeel of who and how they are by their actions. That's one thing I can't do, among many others.

Waiting for the next chapter, but I'm sorry if I don't reply in a while because I'm snowed down with rehearsals for the school musical, choir rehearsals (going on tour next month!) and gymnastics etc.

[ZeldaFan20]

It was a bit climactic at the END of the chapter, but the troubles Ian has with his Zangoose are a screem! Other than that, it's still a great chapter! I can't wait for the big Gym battle.

[Wolfsong]

Great to see that you are back. I finally managed to catch up on one of the few fics i have been reading. Keep up the great work. btw, are you gong to be at the EH anytime soon? I eagerily await the next chappy. ^_^

[ZeldaFan20]

Nala98: The "EH"? What is that, exactly? Is that part of the Forums here?

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

misty - Nice catch. Would've missed it no matter how many times I'd gone over it. S'all right, school and other things come first, right?
Zelda - Poor Ian. *evil laugh* I've been waiting for the perfect Pokemon to have that great attitude in the games. Thanks. Oh, EH = Eevee House. It's an RPG in PCG now.
Nala - Welcome back, me friend. Congrats on getting the House back in PCG. Thankies.

Okay, new chapter! This emakes up for a month of work now! Don't expect me on tomorrow or most of Friday since I'll have some friends over and be gone on Friday. Well, here it is! The Gym battle between Ian and Nash! (P.S. - This one is shorter than normal)


Chapter 7

He swallowed as he looked around the dark room. It was completely silent except for their breathing. “This is creepy.�
Pen nodded and looked around quickly as a loud crash scared all but Moro.
“If you’re scared then go home,� Nash called out from the darkness.
“No way! Let’s go!� Ian yelled.
The lights flashed on, blinding two of them. The Zangoose stood still, looking on with a bored expression. She snorted at the cheap trick and kicked Ian’s knee, nearly crippling him.
Nash smirked at the group, sitting with one leg up, his arm resting on his knee. “Looks like you need to learn a few things about your Pokémon,� he said, nodding at the Normal type.
“Hey, I didn’t ask for your advice,� Ian growled. He looked down at Moro though, watched her glare up at him.
“So, you only have two Pokémon? Fine. A two-on-two fight.� Nash stood up fluidly, picking up two devices from the wall behind him. “You can pick first.�
“Uh, okay.� The Trainer looked down at his two, deciding on Pen because of Fighting’s weakness to Psychic attacks.
The Gym Leader looked back, saw the Drowzee enter the shiny wood battlefield. And smirked. “Typical. Choosing a Psychic.� He returned to his sitting position, rolling his broad shoulders. “I hate to say it but most Trainers who pit a Psychic against my guys end up losing. You’ll find out the hard way though.� Still smirking, he tossed the PokéBall out and smiled.
The red beam shot out, forming into a tiny creature. Ian immediately regretted that he’d chosen his Drowzee for the battle now.
A Meditite sat in a meditative position, eyes closed and body relaxed. His body floated about a foot off the field. The eyes opened, flashing red for a split second.
“Wizard, my boy, let’s show them the true power of the Neaho League!�
“Meditite!� the monkey-like creature agreed. His feet reached the floor as he stretched his arms and legs out.
“Pen, give it all you got! Hypnosis!� Ian commanded.
“Drowzee, drowzeee, drowzeeee.� His voice echoed more in the closed-in space, making the last syllable drown out the rest.
The Fighting hybrid didn’t seem affected by it though. He had fallen into a sleep but not from the Hypnosis. Pendule stopped his chanting and stared at the fighting monkey in awe.
“Wizard has been trained to keep out whatever will hurt his mind,� Nash explained, laughing the whole time. “Wizard! Show them what I’ve taught you here!�
Smirking as well, the Pokémon leaped out and began a brutal array of attacks. The movements were too fast to see but Ian had a terrible feeling that Pen was losing. Once the attacks ended and the Meditite had jumped back to a fighting stance, Ian got his first look at the Drowzee.
The poor Psychic was black and blue all over. Wincing, he kept himself on his feet but looked about ready to just pass out. Snarling, he slid one foot back and held out a fist in front of him.
“Well, seems your Drowzee knows some fighting techniques. A nice cat stance,� the Gym Leader commented, smiling too widely for either of his opponent’s comfort. “Meditite, knock it out.�
“Hei,� he said, the only other word he could say. Again, he charged but Wizard’s eyes opened in surprised as Pen ducked and planted an uppercut to the Fighting hybrid’s chin. His head snapped back with a satisfying crack and Wizard thudded on the battlefield. Quickly, the Meditite rolled back to the balls of his feet and growled.
Pen also got on the balls of his feet and both squared off like boxers. Both would throw a punch but the other would block it as fast. It was a test of speed and skill, not much as brains anymore.
The boxing match continued for another ten minutes, both Pokémon to the brink of exhaustion. Pendule stumbled and fell over but clumsily got back on his feet. Blood was splattered over the floor, making a map of where the two had been fighting. Wizard lunged, tackling the weary Drowzee and let loose a wild punch to the Psychic’s face. Pen’s head cracked against the wood and laid still. Even when the monkey got off of him, he stayed down.
“Drowzee is out,� Nash stated, waving for Ian to go ahead and run on the field.
“Pen! Pen! You okay?� Worried sick, he knelt down beside his fallen comrade, smiling a bit when the eyes fluttered open. “You’re going to be okay. Have a rest.�
“Drowzee,� he mumbled, blood dribbling from his nose and mouth.
The red beam let the exhausted Pokémon in. Ian walked back to the Trainer box, flinching when he noticed Moro staring at him.
“Wizard wants to stay out and continue. Send out the next one.�
“Moro?� he asked, looking down at the Zangoose. She snarled up at him but strode out.
Nash watched in amusement. The Zangoose obviously didn’t like her Trainer but was doing what he asked anyways. She stood facing his Meditite with a bored look on her face. “Wizard, a Reversal will work great here.�
“Meditite,� he nodded, blood flying from a cut in his head. He held his hands together, started gathering energy in-between them. Once the ball was to his liking, Wizard let it fly at Moro.
She did nothing to avoid it or move at all when it started soaring towards her.
“Moro! Get out of the way!� Ian screamed, watching as she flicked a glance back at him then gazed at the ball. In an instant, she flicked her paw up, deflecting the attack into the wall. A chunk broke off and crashed into the battlefield, ruffling her fur.
Face expressionless, she disappeared into a blur and came to a quick stop behind the Fighting hybrid. The small Pokémon had barely turned around when the Zangoose grabbed him by the neck, held him to eye level. Horrified, the Meditite struggled, staring at the face. The eyes had lightened up, like when a cat corners his prey. Her arm shot out, quick as lightning, right into the battered monkey’s face. She threw him across the room, smiling when he didn’t get up.
“Your Zangoose is very good,� Nash said. Too good, he thought. Turning around, the Gym Leader switched PokéBalls for the next round. “If you win this round, you receive the High Kick Badge.� He flicked the device, smiled when the creature took his original form. “Hercules, defeat the Zangoose.�
“Hera!� the blue bug cried, pounding his knuckles together.
“Moro! Listen to me! This type is strong against you! Just let me…�
“Zangoose!� she screamed, eyes blazing as she leaped at the Heracross. The bug steadied himself and let himself be tackled by her. He didn’t move an inch and smiled as the Normal looked up at him with startled eyes. Not wasting his chance, the Bug hybrid lifted her clear off the ground, pinning her arms and legs with his claws. Wings uncovered, he jumped and hovered in the air, circling higher. About ten feet above the battlefield ground he threw her straight down.
She was supposed to be able to defend against this. Helpless, her head hit first, making a sharp cracking sound. Shaken badly from the fall, she stayed down for a few seconds before forcing herself to get back up.
The vision in front of her wavered then split into two Heracrosses. Moro shut her eyes, shook her head, and opened them again. It stayed all right for the first few seconds before again splitting into two. She snarled and took a step forward. Her legs gave out from under her and she collapsed.
Nash sighed and shook his head. “Zangoose is unable to battle.� He whistled for Hercules. “Challenge me again after you’re stronger. And tell your friend to do the same.� He got to his feet, turned, and waved to Ian before exiting through a door in the wall.
Ian ran out to Moro, kneeling down beside her. “Moro? Hey, girl,� he whispered softly. Gently, he rolled her onto her back, stiffened when her eyes snapped open. She swung but missed terribly.
He felt sorry for her, actually. She was still going, still trying to fight but her head was messed up.
“Moro,� he said, pulling out her PokéBall.
“Zan!� Even her voice was slurred a bit. Her arm snapped out and managed to knock the device from his hand.
“Fine then,� he stated. Ian picked up the sphere and held her down. Pressing the button on the front, he didn’t smile as she was sucked in. Betrayal was in the eyes, something he knew that would be imprinted in his mind for a long time.

Lisha looked up when she recognized Ian’s feet on the ground. “Ian? Is it our turn?�
“No.� He sounded dead and he knew it.
“What’s wrong?� she asked, quickly standing up with Kiore sleeping on her shoulder.
“I’ll tell you later,� he mumbled.
She followed his footsteps out of the Gym and down the streets back to the PokéCenter. No one said anything, not needing to. Lisha already knew what had happened, she had guessed. He lost.
Silently, she waited as Ian turned Pen and Moro over to Nurse Joy and stayed beside him to their room. He climbed up the ladder to his bed and curled up.
“Ian,� she whispered after a while. “I know losing something is hard, believe me.� She heard him stir a bit. “But you’ve got to move on.�
“This isn’t about me losing,� he snapped. And regretted it. “Sorry, girl. It’s just,� he rolled over to look down at her. “When Moro lost and I had to return her with some force, she looked at me and seemed,� he paused, looking for the right word. “Betrayed.�
Lisha sighed and smiled softly at him. “You probably had a good reason to return her like that. She’ll feel disgusted with you but will move on. Look at me,� she waved out both arms for emphasis. “I hate you sometimes but I’m still your friend.�
He laughed, a true laugh and not one of the fake forced ones. “Yeah. Talking to you helps. I don’t know why but it does.�
She nodded and turned her head to where Scree and Raijuta sat at her feet. “Let’s leave him to his thoughts,� Lisha whispered. Both creatures nodded solemnly and led her to the door. Before she left though, she raised her hand and held out her first three fingers.
Grinning, Ian did the same to her and stared at the ceiling, hoping to find some way to help Moro trust him better as a Trainer.

[ZeldaFan20]

Cool! The Gym battle was awesome! Too bad Ian and his Pokemon lost, though. I hope Lisha doesn't end up the same way: Nash's Pokemon are strong. Ian will get Moro to trust him: Ash had problems getting Charizard to trust him too.

[CodeR3D]

Yea that chappie rocked!
post the next one soon! :)

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - Hehe... poor Ian. Thankies.
Code - Thanks Code.

Okay, this chapter is a bunch of different views combined. Ian and Lisha both go separate ways and we look at Nash's past. I'm only putting this because I can't do another double post at the Update topic.


Chapter 8

Tiptoeing, he slipped silently out of the room, shutting the door at his back. Wearing only some sleep pants and a sleeveless red shirt, Ian padded down the hallway of the PokéCenter.
A small cry came from right behind him. He froze and whipped his head around. Kiore stood and stared up at him with terrified, red eyes. She seemed to have been crying a bit before catching him sneaking out.
“Kiore,� he whispered slinking up to her and kneeling to eye level. “You should be asleep.�
She sniffled once and held out her arms. Sighing, Ian lifted her with effort, smiling a bit when she wrapped her stubby arms around his neck. He carried her back to their room, making sure to be as quiet as possible. Relieved, he laid her down on the bed with Lisha and covered her with the extra blanket.
Getting back out of the room seemed to be harder than before but worked out in the end. Ian found himself walking down the hospital hallway. He quietly slipped into a room, shutting the door.
Moro was resting on the bed in front of him, the heart monitor beeping continuously. Breathing softly, he picked up a chair and placed it next to the bed. The strong scent of alcohol was buried in the room, seeping off the walls almost. He sat in silence, watching the Zangoose.
‘She has a major concussion. I’ll need to keep her overnight.’
Wincing from the words he’d heard earlier today, Ian stared at the floor. “Moro,� he whispered, “I know you don’t like me. I don’t know why, I might not ever know. But, please, Moro, I need you to trust me. I’m inexperienced, yeah, but still, determination beats that out, right? I’ll help you get stronger, that I can promise you.� He stopped, stared down at her. Ian stood up and slunk out of the room.
She opened one eye; thankful her vision was clear now. Sighing, she slipped away again from the drugs.

Lisha picked up the scrap of paper, running her finger along the holes in it.

Li-
I’m going to be gone for a while. I’ve taken Pen and Moro with me (she’s fine if you’re wondering). I couldn’t take Firebolt along so take care of him for me. Get stronger for the Gym fight ‘cause I don’t want to be the only one to win. Don’t worry about me either, I’ll be all right.
Signed – Ian
P.S. – You might want to keep Kiore busy. She’s still crying about her mother and getting up in the middle of the night.

So are you, she thought. Shaking her head, Lisha whistled softly for Raijuta and Scree. “Guys, we’re on our own for now. We’ll be training for the next few days. After breakfast, we’ll go to the park. Supposedly, there are some good Trainers out there to fight with.�
Both creatures nodded, knowing that this will be a long few days.

“That’s it Wizard. Good, keep it up,� Nash commented. He strode over to his Heracross, watched him jab a punching bag with his forearms and then his horn. “Nice, Hercules.�
He watched his hybrids practice, sharpening skills that had been taught to him. Chuck had been his teacher, Gym Leader of Cianwood. Chuck, though, preferred pure fighting types. He, on the other hand, liked hybrids. They seemed to be more determined to win and much stronger.
Come prepared, Ian. My Pokémon will not give in easily.

“Moro! Stop it!� screamed Ian, dragging her away from a battered looking Marill. The Zangoose snarled, swiped out with her claws. He dodged and elbowed her in the gut, watching her double over. It was the only way to get her to stop.
“Marill,� the mouse cried, opening two black eyes.
Ian picked her up, held her out of reach from his Normal type. “You have a Trainer, Marill?�
She stared up at him, slowly shook her head.
“Well, then, this is a pickle,� he said, looking around. He hadn’t really expected to catch new Pokémon or planned it. A Potion would get the Marill back on her feet but then that would mean he’d have to go back to Rowan City anyways for more.
“Zan, zangoose,� Moro growled, rolling her shoulders.
“No, Moro.� Ian took out the Potion, gently sprayed the healing liquid over the Water type. The cuts faded away as well as the bruises. “There now,� he said, setting her down. “Come on, Moro.� To make sure she came, he held her elbow and stayed clear away from her other paw.
“Zan, zan,� she snarled, looking behind them.
“What?�
“Goose.� She pointed behind them.
He turned around to find the Marill following them. “Um, you’re free, Marill. Go home.� Walking again, Ian looked back to find the Water type still coming. “Please don’t follow me!� he cried. He was still having problems with the last Pokémon he’d caught. When he turned back to look a third time, she was still jogging after them. Sighing in defeat, he stopped and picked a PokéBall from his belt, throwing it on the ground. “Fine, okay! You win!�
The Marill seemed to know how to work the device and let herself in. The small light went out fast, signaling she was caught.
“Why does this happen to me?� Ian asked no one in particular.

Lisha smiled at the Trainer on the opposite side of the field. He had lost but had given Scree a good fight. “Good battle!� she called out.
He nodded, wondering how he could lose to a blind person. His Cubone had lost to a Nidoran Male, which, to him, made no sense.
She finally stepped out of the box, the four Pokémon following after her. Kiore and Firebolt stayed right beside her legs, making it hard to walk. Raijuta and Scree trotted behind them, keeping an eye out for anyone shady.
“Free to a good home. Free to a good home,� called a voice from her right.
She stopped, and looked over at where the voice had come from. “Excuse me,� she said, “what’s ‘free’?
“Oh, you’re the blind Trainer aren’t you?� The voice sounded like a small boy.
“Yes,� she answered, pushing her sunglasses up on her nose.
“Well, I have a Houndour that needs a home since my Mom won’t let me keep him. She says he’s too hyper. Maybe a Trainer can help him out,� he said sweetly, staring up at her.
There was a clicking sound to the boy’s left. Something was running around in circles. A crack sounded as the Houndour fell over from tripping himself with the leash.
It wasn’t his fault he was hyper, she knew. Some Pokémon stored too much energy from not battling enough. “Okay, for a person in need.� She carefully stepped to where the dog was jumping around. Lisha tossed a PokéBall and smiled when the ping sounded quickly. Even though he had been caught, Lisha could feel him rolling around in the device.
“Thank you! I’m sure you’ll be a good Trainer for him,� the boy smiled sadly up at her. He picked up the leash and walked away, happy he had found a home but he’d miss the dog.
“Who wants to rest? I think I’m tired out from holding this,� she laughed. Firebolt jumped and climbed up on her shoulder to sit. Scree and Raijuta shook their heads and followed after the Trainer.

Ian and the others had returned with the new teammate. He’d decided to call the Marill Water Flower, since she seemed to like flowers. Moro was a bit disgusted with her. The Zangoose was trusting Ian a bit more, just enough to listen to him sometimes during a battle.
He was glad that he wasn’t the only to have a new partner, one a bit relieved that he didn’t have the hyperactive Houndour. Lisha had been working him hard but he still didn’t seem to tire. There were many names he could’ve had but she had called him Daemon, an old word for demon that suited what he looked like and had an ironic twist she liked.
They had left for the Gym early, putting the Pokémon in their PokéBalls instead of letting them walk to the battle to save their energy.
The Gym loomed over them almost like a ghost, beckoning them in.
Ian took a breath and let it out. “Ready?�
“Yes,� Lisha said, shifting her bag on her shoulder.
“Why’d you bring that?� he asked, eyeing it carefully.
“That’s for us to know and you to find out sooner or later,� she laughed nervously.
The doors opened before they could touch them. Wizard and Hercules stood beside their Trainer, watching the opponents with hard eyes.
“You’re back. Good. We’ve been doing some training ourselves. Now, choose who will go first so that we can get this over with.� He disappeared with his creatures into the darkness of the Gym.
“You go first,� Ian said, looking over at Lisha. “I have to make sure we’re ready to take this guy on.�
“All right,� she nodded. “Wish us luck.�
He waited until she had faded into the shadows. “Good luck, Li. Take that guy out.� Ian released his partners, smiling as Water Flower and Pen looked pumped and ready. Moro, though, snarled at the two and glared up at him. Please let her listen to me, just this once.

[CodeR3D]

yay good chappie!
yay Lisha got a Houndour!!1
thats one of my favorite pokes!!!1

[ZeldaFan20]

One new Pokemon for each? That's great---at least they'll have more variety in their individual teams. I KNOW Lisha will do good in the Gym Battle: she has the potential!

Btw, I noticed that, last time, Raijuta and Moro were on your screen name; now I noticed that Daemon and Water Flower are on it. Do you change the characters with every new Pokemon caught in the story? Or am I just rationalizing?

[Ryantheman]

Now Lisha has a seeing eye dog. LOL:D

[Otto=ottO]

Sorry for not replying, I had some problems I had to take care of. Heh heh heh.

Poor, Ian, why do you make him so stupid? I bet nidoran is going to evolve and Ian will catch a Marill. It's in your sig, and before those other new pokemon were.

So, yes, keep posting.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Code - Yeah, I was going to make him appear later but decided to go ahead and get the hyper puppy in the story.
Zelda - Yes I do. I got bored with just the quote so I decided to give out small spoilers.
Ryan - Uh, sure.
Otto - Because it's fun! And don't worry, I will.

The Gym fight is now up!


Chapter 9

She stumbled through the dark, completely lost. Lisha had already run into two walls and something else that she had no idea of.
“This way,� called a voice from her left.
Following the sounds, she found the Trainer box on the battlefield.
“I’m glad you could come, Lisha. I’ve been expecting the day I would defeat you.� Nash watched her get settled in the box opposite him. “How will the match be played?�
“Three on three, returning Pokémon after each fight,� she said.
“Fine.� He looked down at Wizard, nodding. The monkey-like creature stepped out onto the field, taking a fighting stance.
Lisha picked up a PokéBall from her belt and tossed it, revealing Raijuta.
“Wizard, let’s end this battle quickly. Confusion.�
“Meditite!� he called. The light purple energy gathered in his small hands and he prepared to release it.
Raijuta shot across the field, ramming his head into the monkey’s stomach. Losing concentration, the Confusion disintegrated. The two squared off, circling each other. The Electrike snapped out, catching the Fighting hybrid’s arm in his mouth. Blood dripped onto the field from the cuts in Wizard’s arm. He growled and formed a fist by his side. An uppercut landed on Raijuta’s chin, making his head snap up. The Electric snarled and let his energy form into small lightning bolts that surrounded his body. The lights in the Gym flickered on and off as the lightning grew bigger.
“Wizard! Form a Protect!� Nash called out.
The white barrier encircled the Meditite right before the electric attack flew from Raijuta. Lightning bounced off the walls, making cracking sounds like thunder. Wizard forced his energy into the shield, hoping it would hold.
The sound of breaking glass cut the air as his shield shattered from the strain. Wizard was thrown against the wall and pinned by the energy.
The lightning faded and Raijuta stumbled, energy drained. He looked up at the Meditite as he slid down the wall. Electrical burns covered his body and he was a bit black around the edges.
“Wizard has lost. The first win is to you, Lisha,� the Gym Leader said, returning the fainted Wizard. “The second battle will begin now! Ali, go!�
The small Fighting type his place on the field, hands clenched into fists. “Ty!� he called, throwing a few fast paced kicks and punches to the air.
A Tyrogue, Lisha thought. Pretty fast from the sound of it. She felt Raijuta lay down beside her, panting like a dog. Picking a device from her belt, she released her fastest partner. “Daemon!�
The first thing the Houndour did was howl to the ceiling, putting his spirit into it. His eyes shone as he noticed the field and the Tyrogue. He barked, a rough sound and let out a playful growl.
Snorting, the small fighter balled his fists again and disappeared into a blur. Daemon barked again and also faded into the air. Both met in the middle of the field, Daemon’s head low and smashed into Ali’s stomach and the Tyrogue’s fist slammed in the Houndour’s back.
Daemon barked again and opened his mouth as wide as it would go. Fire erupted from his mouth, burning the fighter’s stomach.
Ali cried out and suddenly kicked the Dark hybrid’s chin. The Dark type saw stars for a few seconds before shaking his head. Another fist landed on his chest and a kick caught Daemon in the stomach.
The young Houndour staggered to his feet, growling less playfully now.
“Daemon! Use another Ember attack!� Lisha called out.
“Ali, take him out before he does it!� Nash commanded.
Charging up and gathering his energy took longer than he’d wanted. Ali had already come in before the attack had reached full and knocked him on his back. Straddling the dazed dog, the Fighting type began an array of poundings, each landing on Daemon’s face. The fighter jumped back, watching the Dark type stumble to his four feet and then collapse, fainted.
“Daemon has lost.� He waited as Ali took his place besides his Trainer and as Lisha returned the Houndour. “It’s one to one. The next fight will decide the winner.� Nash nodded to Hercules who hovered onto the field.
Lisha released her last Pokémon, listening as his claws clicked the wood. “Scree! We’re not going try out the new tactics yet but let’s take the gold home! Tackle!�
“Ni!� he cried, squaring his body on all fours. Leaping, the Nidoran charged with his head down. Hercules dug his claws into the ground as the Poison type charged, ready to throw another one to the ground.
Scree flashed a quick smirk and jumped clear over the Bug hybrid. Using the momentum from the attack, he slid around and hit the Heracross in the middle of the back.
Nash stared in amazement as the small purple Pokémon again sailed over his Heracross and attacked the front half of Hercules. The Nidoran was a good jumper. “Hercules! Seismic Toss that Nidoran to the ground!�
“Heracross!� the Bug hybrid clicked. Growling, he caught Scree in the curve of his horn. The Heracross flung his body back, making the Nidoran fly threw the air.
“Ni!� squealed Scree as he flew through the air. His body crashed into the new Gym wall and collapsed to the ground.
“Scree! You okay?� cried Lisha, hearing his small struggle to get up.
“Ni,� he squeaked, shaking his head. The spines on his back stood straight up and his horn seemed to gleam in the dim light. He roared and went into a charge, head held low.
“Hera!� Hercules growled, again preparing to grab the Poison type.
Scree still ran on head low to the ground. He jumped about ten feet in front of Hercules and curled up into a ball. The Bug stared in surprised and nearly jumped to get out of the way but the Poison rammed hard into his stomach, spines scratching the hard cover. Scree uncurled and knocked Hercules with his horn.
The Heracross backed up, clutching his side. A small crack had let in some of the poison from Scree’s horn. Pale, he swung at the tired Nidoran, missing badly. He stumbled and fell over from the poison in his blood.
Defeated, Nash returned his suffering Hercules, smiling softly. “Good job, ol’ boy. You did good,� he whispered to the red and white device in his hand. The Gym Leader took a step and stopped.
The Nidoran had started to glow dimly. It started from his horn and raced across his weary body. His horn shot out, growing longer and sharper as well as his spines. Scree’s legs thickened and grew more muscular. Claws became sharper and the Poison’s ears elongated. His snout became larger, more pronounced and his teeth started to poke out from his mouth.
Lisha had frozen, listening carefully with Raijuta staring in awe. “He did it,� she mumbled.
Scree, startled, looked down at his body. The Nidorino squeaked which sounded more like a cough now. He roared, a deep voice replacing his small boyish one. Smiling broadly, he let out another roar that echoed from the Gym’s walls.
“Well, your Nidoran has evolved. Doesn’t surprise me.� Nash walked across the Gym floor, pulling a small item from his pocket. “If anyone deserves this Badge, it’s you, Lisha.� He placed the Badge in her hand, smiled as she clutched it. “Tell Ian I’ll be waiting for him.�
She nodded at his voice, grinning. The new Scree trotted next to her, Raijuta on her other side. The Badge had disappeared into her pocket, forever safe.

Ian looked up as Lisha emerged from the shadows. “Li! How’d it – Holy crap!� He jumped up as Scree also came out from the darkness, letting out a happy roar at him.
Lisha started laughing, rubbing the Nidorino’s head. “Surprised, Ian?�
“Oh, yeah,� he gasped, catching his breath. “Did you win?�
She reached into her pocket, pulled out the small Badge. “Yep.�
He grinned, stood up, and slapped her hand. “Is it our turn now?�
“Yeah, Nash is waiting.�
“Okay,� he sighed. “Let’s go.� Pendule, Water Flower, and Moro followed after him in the dark.

Nash looked up as Ian and his group entered the arena. “Welcome back, Ian. How will the battle be played?�
His gaze went down to the creatures around his feet. Water Flower stared up at him and backed away. “Two on two. Last one standing wins.�
“Fine. Ali, go.�
The small Tyrogue rose from behind Nash, striding out onto the field.
“Drow,� Pen said, waddling out to face the fighter.
“Ali, start off with a Tackle,� the Gym Leader commanded.
“Hei,� he said, hands balled. The small Tyrogue disappeared into a blur, racing across the field.
Pen’s small ears twitched, his eyes following where the small Fighting type was. He positioned his hands in front of him, palms out, and leaned back. The Pyschic narrowed his eyes and suddenly snapped forward, waves of energy shooting from his palms.
Ali appeared and was blasted back into the wall. He fell forward, bouncing on the ground. The small fighter forced himself back up, squared his shoulders.
Pen swung his fist, caught the Tyrogue’s head full on. He went flying again but this time, Ali didn’t get up.
Nash returned his Tyrogue, knowing that the little fighter was exhausted from both fights. “Hercules, go.�
The blue bug appeared from the shadows, hovered onto the battlefield. He growled, rapped his knuckles together.
“Hercules, end this. Horn Attack.�
“Hera,� he nodded and charged.
Pen, energy nearly gone, formed a weak barrier. Hercules destroyed it with a smack of his horn and knocked the weary Drowzee halfway across the field. Pen, too tired to move, laid still.
“Pen is out. Choose the next-“ Nash didn’t finish because as soon as the Psychic was back in the PokéBall, Moro charged the field, energy almost radiating off of her.
“Hercules, Seismic Toss that Zangoose like last time,� he said.
“Hera!� the Bug hybrid cried.
“Moro, remember what we went over!� Ian yelled, watching as the Zangoose raised an arm.
Snarling, the Normal type charged at the ready Heracross. Hercules smirked and snatched the Zangoose, pinning her arms and legs in his forearms. Wings out, he flew into the air, holding the struggling Moro. The scene replayed; Hercules about to throw Moro to the field feet below and the Zangoose too scared to fight back.
Hercules flung his arms, smiling as the Normal went forward. Moro grinned and latched on grip on the Bug hybrid’s arm. The momentum of his throw sent the two flying to the ground, Moro on top. A hideous thud rose into the air as dust shot into the air. When it cleared, Hercules was under the dazed Zangoose, unconscious.
The Heracross disappeared in the red beam as Nash returned him. “Good battle, Ian.� The Gym Leader walked across the Gym floor, noticing Moro watching him with hard eyes. “The High Kick Badge is yours.� He tossed the glinting object to the awed Trainer, smiled when he caught it. “Take care, Ian.�

Her head snapped up as Ian’s footsteps pounded the floor. “Ian?� she asked, getting away from his running steps as fast as she could. No such luck.
“Yes, Li!� His arms locked fast around her neck, nearly strangling her. “We did it!�
“Good!� she gasped, clawing at his arm. “Can’t breathe!�
“Oh,� he said, his face growing hot. “Sorry, girl.�
Scree and Water Flower looked at each other, snickering. Ian’s face grew redder from the two. He helped Lisha to her feet, making the two creatures chuckle louder.
“Oh, knock it off!� he yelled. “Come on, now. Let’s go back to the Center.�
The two Pokémon grinned as they followed the two Trainers out the Gym doors.
One Badge down, nine more to go, Lisha thought, shifting her bag.

[Otto=ottO]

I knew scree would evolve :)

I actually missed the last chapter, lol. So I missed when that Marill got caught. So, great chap. Lucky Ian actually won! And Zangoose fighting after a Major concussion? Not a good idea.

[ZeldaFan20]

YES! Both won! Scree evolved! Moro listened (I think)! This chapter was a real blast! But I bet the next Gym battle will be even harder------what am I saying? Of course it will be harder; all the better!

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - She had a few days of rest... maybe... er, thanks.
Zelda - It will be harder but not now. The next Gym battle will be in a while.

Okay, next chapter is up... now!


Chapter 10

The sun was rising over the small mountain, making it seem pink and orange. Everyone except Lisha stared in awe at the sight.
“Wow,� Ian mumbled.
“What?� asked Lisha, looking around blankly.
“Oh, sorry,� he said. “Well, it’s a sunrise on a mountain. The mountain looks pink and orange and it’s kinda blended.�
She smiled softly at his effort. “Thanks.�
The team trekked down the cliff, sliding down the rocky edges. Firebolt sat on Ian’s shoulders while Kiore had to walk. She had grown at least two inches since Lisha and Scree had found her, making her as tall as Moro. Her Trainer couldn’t pick her up anymore so she now had to walk everywhere.
Daemon ran ahead, his energy limitless. He was actually a pretty good climber, not once stumbling on the shifting rocks. Scree, on the other hand, tripped and rolled the rest of the way down, about six feet.
“Scree! You okay?� Lisha called out, trying to find a safe step.
“Ni,� he roared, shaking some dust and pebbles from his head.
Daemon barked and jumped the last three feet and landed gracefully on all fours.
“Okay, I think that Houndour is either crazy or lived here,� Ian stated, his hand slipping. He started to fall but claws grabbed a hold of his wrist. Moro lowered him onto a ledge and dropped beside him. “Thanks, Moro.�
She snorted and climbed the rest of the way down.
“Come on, Lisha! Just jump!� he called up, watching as his friend clutched the ledge she was on.
“How far is it!� she yelled, trying to judge the distance like a bat does.
“About two feet since you took the hard way!�
“It’s not my fault!�
“Just jump!� Ian cried.
Gulping, she took a deep breath and jumped off the small ledge. She suddenly hit a slope and tumbled forward. Lisha hit the bottom of the cliff, groaning.
“Li! Are you all right?� he knelt down by her head, wincing as her sunglasses finally fell down with a large crack in one of the lenses.
“I’m gonna kill you,� she muttered, sitting up painfully.
He grinned, helped her to her feet. “Your sunglasses are ruined,� he commented, brushing some dust off her back.
“I got another pair.� Flinching from the small pain in her leg, Lisha opened a pocket on her bag and pulled out her second pair. They were a bit bigger than her others but still did their job.
Daemon led the way as they continued through the mountains. Kiore walked beside Lisha, taking one step for her two. Raijuta and Moro stayed behind the group, watching the ground slowly become farther away the more they climbed. Scree trotted with the now free Firebolt, following him to keep the Magby out of trouble. Water Flower had retreated into her PokéBall, staying on the safe side.
Ian looked back at Lisha, noticed she was limping a bit. “You sure you’re okay?�
She looked up at his voice and nodded. “Yeah, I’m okay.�
He stared at her for a minute but kept going.
An hour went by, the mountain path getting taller and steeper. The sun had turned from beautiful to merciless in that time, beating all but Daemon and Firebolt down. Kiore had stumbled countless times since she was used to flat plains.
“Let’s take a break,� Ian panted, finding a shady area under a large boulder.
Daemon laid out in the sun with Scree panting beside him. Raijuta rolled on his back, panting as well.
Lisha found her canteen in her bag after a minute of digging. She took a swallow and handed the water container to where Kiore had sat down. The large creature gulped down nearly half of it and by the time it was back to Lisha, the canteen was empty.
Ian found the same thing when he received his. “I think there’s a stream or something around here,� he muttered.
The Houndour jumped up, barking. He trotted forward and waited for them to follow. A smile seemed to cross his muzzle as he led them down the mountain. Leaping like a mountain goat, Daemon climbed down the mountain twice as fast as his Trainer. He had to wait a lot as the others struggled to find footholds, especially Lisha.
“Is that running water?� she asked Ian, ears pricked.
“My hearing isn’t as good as yours,� he said.
Scree let out a deep cough for a yes as he pushed through some tall bushes. They found Daemon sitting on a boulder and right behind him was a small stream. His eyes shone with triumph and he grinned as Lisha patted his bony head.
After both canteens and a few empty bottles they had were full, the team again started to wander the mountain range.
Raijuta was becoming edgy as well as Scree. Moro was on alert something Ian knew meant trouble.
“What is it?� he whispered, picking Firebolt up from the ground and placing him in his bag.
“I don’t know but keep going,� she said softly.
The Pokémon were starting to bunch, putting Kiore in the middle. Daemon looked up and then stared ahead, the hair on his back bristling.
Howling rose into the air, scaring the creatures.
“Run!� screamed Lisha, bolting down the path. Daemon grabbed the back of her shirt and pulled her down.
Black shapes moved down the slope, leaping like agile gazelles across the rocky terrain.
“It’s a pack of Houndour,� Ian breathed out, backing up and nearly tripping over Lisha.
Raijuta and Daemon began to bark with deep voices. Scree roared and shook his head while Moro growled. The black blurs disappeared for a moment but came back again with bigger blurs.
The Houndour howled at the moving pack and let loose an Ember attack. The creatures again vanished over the slope.
A deeper howling came from the path behind them. Ian turned around to see the largest Houndoom he had ever seen. It was about twice as big as a regular Houndoom and a lot more muscular. Deep scars were in her muzzle and along her entire body.
Raijuta let loose an electrical attack that took all his energy away but it hit the huge dog. She howled and charged back up the mountain before turning around and coming back at them, the whole pack at her heels.
Kiore had run to Lisha, returning herself inside. Scree stayed out, roaring and started to charge the oncoming pack. The Houndour stepped in the way and pushed him to the edge of the path.
Ian knew what he was thinking but they’d never survive a drop from halfway up a hundred and seventy six foot mountain. Live for another few seconds or falling? he thought. “Falling,� he chose and grabbed Lisha’s wrist. Daemon had already jumped with Scree behind him. Moro was still deciding but had slipped and was now freefalling. Ian jumped and Lisha had barely enough time to grab the weakened Electrike before they rolled over the side.
Daemon had faded into the trees that lined the mountain about sixty feet below where they had jumped. The Nidorino was next to vanish as well as Moro. Ian let go of his friend’s arm and prayed to be spared.
Lisha had managed to get Raijuta safely in his ball as they fell. She crashed through the branches, wincing as they cut her body. Tumbling through the trees, she was suddenly saved by what felt like ropes. She bounced and came to a stop in the vines, clutching them for balance.
She heard Scree fall into one beside her, knowing it was the Nidorino from the way he shrieked as he fell. Moro joined him in the nest, a few cuts on her furred arms.
“You two okay?� Lisha called, heard them answer none too cheerfully what sounded like a ‘yes’.
Something hopped beside her, making Lisha almost lose her regained balance. Daemon gently licked her torn up cheek and looked at the other two.
A crashing sound made all of them look up. Ian tumbled through the overhead branches, freefalling. Moro reached out and snatched his shirt and, with the help of Scree, dragged him in the nest.
“Hey! Is he okay?� asked Lisha, knowing who it was from the silence around them.
“Ni,� the Poison said sadly, nosing Ian’s arm.
He moaned softly and opened an eye. Pain flooded into his body as his mind started coming around.
“Ian! Ian!�
Oh, stupid voice, he thought, grimacing.
“Ian!�
It was Lisha, not the voice in his head. He looked up and found her staring down at him, a worried look on her face. “Hey,� he mumbled. “Stop looking at me like that.�
She let out a forced laugh. “I guess we know why it’s called the Dire Mountain Range now.�
Daemon nodded but wasn’t smiling. He barked and gazed down at the forest floor, about fifty feet below them. Scree gulped and immediately returned himself to his PokéBall on Lisha’s belt.
The Zangoose cut a long vine besides the nest and gently tugged on it. Smiling at its strength, she let it drop and started climbing down. Daemon waited for her to drop the last five feet before reaching out with a paw and pulling the vine towards them.
Lisha felt the thick plant, smiled. “Hey, Ian? Think you have enough strength to climb down fifty feet?�
He opened one eye and stared at her. “Can I drop?�
“Nope.� She waited as Daemon grabbed the back of Ian’s shirt and pulled him on his back. Lisha took and piece of vine and gently tied the Trainer’s body to the struggling Houndour. The dog bent his back legs and leaped out of the nest, pushing off against the trunk of a tree and leaping from branch to branch.
By the time Lisha had climbed down and dropped, the two creatures had Ian lying down in a clear spot. She sat down beside him, trying to picture what he looked like after falling.
“You lost your glasses,� he muttered.
“I can always get another pair,� she smiled. “Where does it hurt?�
He thought a moment and replied, “Everywhere.�
“That’s a lot of.� She stopped, looked up. “They’re coming.�
Daemon snarled and stood up with Moro. The Trainer released her other two creatures and then all of Ian’s except for Firebolt. They would have to fight their way out of this.

[Otto=ottO]

Live for another few seconds or falling. Hmmm, wouldn't falling count as another few seconds if he died at the end? Even so, at the end, jumping seemed rather pointless.

Blind person climbing mountain, ouch.

Good job otherwise.

[ZeldaFan20]

Attacked by a pack of angry Houndour, and an even angrier Houndoom, Huh? I wonder how they're gonna get out of this one...

A totally suspenseful chapter!! You're really batting a thousand!:yes:

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - Maybe it was pointless... hehe. Poor Lisha. Thanks, Otto!
Zelda - I really don't get what the phrase means but thanks!

Okay, I'll give the person who guesses what anime movie I got this chapter from something special (it'll be cheap so dont try too hard). Short chapter.

<> means telepathy.


Chapter 11

The howling grew closer as the pack cut off their retreat. Daemon’s ears went up as he listened and stopped growling. He let out a huge bark and howled.
Something dropped from the trees and landed in front of the dog, startling everyone else. A Mankey stood, looking over the Houndour. The small monkey smiled and started screeching.
A small Eevee head peeked out from a bush along with three silver ones. An Absol walked right past Ian and Lisha with a few kits at her feet. Daemon grinned and barked playfully at the Pokémon around him.
A high-pitched squeal had all of them stopping where they were. In seconds, the creatures had formed two lines, making an aisle to the Houndour. A Grumpig emerged from the trees, walking on his hind legs. The gray around his snout looked like a beard and his eyes reflected his age.
The dog sat up straight. The large pig was invading his mind but he didn’t move even when the Psychic tapped his muzzle.
Snorting, the Grumpig looked over at Lisha and Ian. He took a step and just blinked when Scree put himself between the Psychic and the Trainers. The pig looked at him for a second and snapped his fingers. Scree’s body glowed a light purple and he floated into the air. He was set down about three feet away and the old pig walked right up to the two kids. Lisha backed up a bit from the Psychic’s energy.
<You’re Daemon’s Trainer, yes?> the Grumpig asked.
The girl stopped and tried to figure out what was going on. “Yes,� she said uncertainly.
“Li, why ya talking?� Ian asked, staring at the large pig in front of him.
<You’re the other Trainer Daemon talks about.>
Ian would’ve jumped but his body hurt too much. “You can talk?�
<In telepathy, yes,> the Psychic answered, looking over at him.
Faint howling came from the mountains above them. The Absol kits started mewing in panic and the Arons that had been hiding out with the Eevee began to run.
<Gral’s Tribe!> The Grumpig called. <Run!>
Immediately, the Pokémon scattered into the brush. A Rapidash appeared, scars along her back. The Psychic jumped on the large horse and disappeared into the trees.
Lisha managed to get Ian up on his feet but collapsed when his legs gave out. The Zangoose grabbed the Trainer’s wrist and struggled to get him back up.
A whinny made them all look up. A Ponyta, startled by the howlings that were getting closer, pranced in place before kneeling on her front legs. Scree shrugged and picked Ian up by his shirt. The Nidorino and Zangoose dragged Ian up on the horse and almost chased after them but stopped. Something was crying in the treetops above them.
“That sounds like Firebolt,� Lisha whispered, finding that the sound was above her. “You didn’t return him?�
“No,� he moaned. “I put him in my bag.�
“Great,� she said, noticing the pack was getting closer.
“Ni,� Scree growled and let out a barrage of needles from his spines. A cracking noise filled the air as a branch with Ian’s bag fell. Water Flower sent a small spout of water and slowed the backpack’s descent. Moro caught it and dashed after the now fleeing Ponyta.
Daemon stayed by Lisha’s side, guiding her through the woods as the others bolted on.

“Is everything in place?�
“Yes, sir. The bombs have been put in their positions.�
“Are they working correctly?�
“Yes. We check them right before we placed them.�
“Good. We’ll go after Okkoto’s Tribe first. They’re weaker and have more rare Pokémon to capture. Tell the men that we go in tonight.�
“I’ll tell them. But what if Gral’s Tribe attacks us?�
“Kill them. But leave Gral alive. The Boss would love to have her.�
“Yes, sir.�

“So, you used to have a Trainer?� Ian asked the large pig.
<Yes. A very good one. Actually, most of us had a Trainer before,> the Grumpig stated. <All but your Houndour and the Absol kits had a Trainer. Now, we live in the wild again, in a tribe.>
Daemon was playing with the Eevee and Arons. Kiore was sitting around with Firebolt and the small kits, playing a game that was only known to them. A few Pidgey and Spearow sat in the trees with their evolved forms.
Okkoto sighed and watched his tribe. <But, I’m getting older and will die soon. The tribe will fall apart and Gral might get a lot of them. The family will be gone.>
Lisha looked around but didn’t say anything.
“Ff…am…eelee,� a deep voice pronounced.
Everyone looked at Kiore who giggled loudly.
“Ffameelee,� she said again, slurring her f’s.
“Did she just.� Ian asked, looking over at Lisha. His friend nodded and grinned.
“Kiore,� she said. “What’s his name?� She pointed at Scree who stared in shock at the young Kangaskhan.
“Skr…eee,� she said, making the ‘scr’ sound like a cough.
“What’s my name?� she asked, grinning broader as the Normal type slowly pronounced it.
“Lee…sha.� The ‘sha’ also sounded like a cough.
“What’s my name?� Ian asked, painfully sitting up.
The small Kangaskhan stared at him before struggling with the word. “Eee…nn,� she said slowly.
“Ah, close enough,� he smiled.
<Well, looks like she’s talking,> Okkoto stated. <Living with humans at her age when her vocal chords are starting to develop is a good way to get her to talk.>
The two Trainers smiled as the other Pokémon crowded around the young Kiore and had her say their names.

The pack sat on the mountain, watching a small area of forest. A few of the Houndour snarled at the laughing coming from the area.
A Houndoom barked at the largest of them all. She turned to look at the one who spoke and nodded.
One by one, the tribe slowly made their way down the mountain, their leader in the front. Once in the forest, though, they separated and stayed in the safety of the trees.

“Sir! Gral’s Tribe has surrounded Okkoto’s. There’s no way in.�
“Are there bombs around the area where Gral’s are?�
“Yes, sir.�
A small pause followed the statement as the leader thought for a moment. “Find out where Gral is. Once then, detonate the ones that won’t hurt her too bad.�
“Yes, sir.�

An explosion rang through the air, screams and howls of agony being drowned out by it. Fires erupted in the trees, scaring the birds into the skies. The flames trapped those who couldn’t fly.
Okkoto screamed for calm among his tribe as the younger ones shrieked in fear. The flames surrounded them and no possible way out was evident. Growling, he let out a loud squeal that quieted all but the fire down. <Stay calm! We’ll find a way out of this! Now->
A snarling made them all look over. The huge Houndoom emerged from the forest, limping heavily on her front leg. Blood splashed the ground where she stood. Eyes aflame she bared her teeth at the smaller pig. “I’ll kill you, Okkoto! You planted those explosives!� she growled, mouth moving slowly.
<Gral,> he said calmly. <I haven’t planted any explosives around here.> The Grumpig looked her over as she struggled to stand. <Is there any way out?>
The large dog shook her head slowly, growling at the pain in her shoulder.
<Water Flower, Ocean, Bubbles,> the Psychic called, watching the small Water types step forward. <Clear a path for us to our left. The fire is weaker that way.>
“Marill,� the small mouse said and led the way.
Kiore pulled Ian to his feet, letting him lean on her sturdy body. Lisha helped the two of them by recalling all but the Kangaskhan and Houndour.
“Halt! Stay where you are!�
Gral snarled as a few humans in suits appeared with several Rock and Ground Pokémon. The tribe was surrounded by the people.
<You planted the explosives, then,> Okkoto said, watching one of them smirk.
“I’ll kill you!� Gral howled and charged. A blast split well over the roaring flames and she shrieked in agony. The blood that fell from her injured body increased, splattering the ground like a painting.
<Ian, Lisha,> Okkoto called quickly. <Get the tribe to the mountains. The fire won’t burn the mountains.>
“Right,� she said, placing her hand on Daemon’s back to guide her.
“Stop!� one of the humans cried but was attacked by Kiore’s tail. The Geodude besides him met a different fate as the Water’s returned and immediately blasted him.
The group began to run through the flaming forest, having to use several different routes to get the huge mountains in their sight. The Arons, since they were slower than the others, rode on the Ponyta that led the way. The Rapidash kept running ahead to find the safest way out of the forest.
A crackling sound hit the roaring air as a burning branch blocked their path. Screaming, they immediately chose another path. This one, though, was also blocked by fire.
“We’re trapped.� Ian said, watching in panic as the fire closed in around them, cutting off all escapes.

[Otto=ottO]

Confusing talking pokemon. Too much for me.

Is it spirited away? Lol, prob not. Or could it be a pokemon movie? Lol. I dunno the answer.

Zelda meant it as a baseball metaphor I believe. They average out the ptches vs hits you get on a pitch. I'm guessing that that means you are hitting everything. Also known as a compliment.

Ian is a dope, slow thinking.

Good job otherwise, I think...

P.S. Read my short story in that sticky topic, I need a comment.

[ZeldaFan20]

Actually, what I meant was that you are doing exceptionally well with the story.

This chapter is great too! I was really surprised when Kiore started TALKING! I guess it's not surprising, since she's literally being "raised" by humans, huh?

That part with the two Pokemon Leaders being attacked by Team Rocket, and the others getting trapped like that-----I hope they all make it out okay.:(

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - Sorry for all the talking. And you're close with the movie, same guy. It was Princess Mononoke. Thanks!
Zelda - Don't worry, it'll come in this chapter! Thankies!

Okay, this one is shorter than average since I had a bit of writer's block. So... enjoy.


Chapter 12

The small Water types tried desperately to get rid of the flames but it was no use. The raging fire was too strong.
Daemon growled at the oncoming flames, backing up as the fires spread. Lisha kept her hand on his fur, the roar of the flames in her ears. She looked up at the sound of wood crackling, and knew what was going to happen.
“The branches are going to fall!� she screamed, trying to get her voice over the roar.
“What?� Ian yelled as loud as he could, looking over at her.
“The branches are going to fall!� she shrieked again and pointed up at the fires above their heads.
The Pokémon bunched together, trying to make themselves as small as possible. The crackling grew louder and one of the large branches began to fall. The small ones screamed as the charred limb fell.
A squeal rose octaves higher than the flames. Purple waves flew out from the forest besides them, holding the burning branch in place. Okkoto, blood dripping from his snout, stood in a purple shield in the middle of the fire.
<Go! I’ll make a path!> he cried, tossing the branch to the side.
Ian watched in awe as the fires suddenly shifted to the side, making a pathway through the charred woods. The small creatures bolted through the tunnel of flames while the larger ones ran ahead.
“There it is! There’s the mountain!� cried Ian, watching the rocks and boulders come into view. The Pokémon started climbing up the slope of the mountain, grabbing onto rocks and small brush plants yet affected by the flames. Daemon growled and moved Lisha’s hand to grab his scruff. Bending, he leaped, dragging his Trainer with him.
Kiore was having problems with Ian. The boy could barely move and Okkoto’s shield had worn off. Finally, she grabbed him and placed Ian on her back. Stumbling up, the Kangaskhan climbed with the rest of the creatures.
A barking sounded behind them as another Houndour, badly injured jumped up to meet them. He was bleeding heavily from his side and had burns along his back legs. He slipped and almost fell back into the flaming abyss but Ian grabbed his front paw and, painfully, held on to him until they were up at the top.
About thirty feet up, they stopped and all of them laid around panting. Smoke blocked their view of the burning forest below them but most knew what would happen.
All of them looked up as claws scraped against rocks. Two red eyes broke through the smoke as Gral stumbled up the mountain. Blood dripped from her open mouth as well as from several wounds in her body. She stared at the huddled creatures before falling over on her side.
Not one of them moved towards her, scared that she might be still awake and bite their heads off. The Houndour suddenly gathered up the courage and slowly walked to the injured Houndoom. He nudged her side and watched as the red eyes opened again. She snarled at the young dog and snapped. Daemon leaped away but snarled back at her. The other Houndour joined him, trying to calm his leader down.
The small group watched the two Dark hybrids fight. Lisha finally stood up and stumbled to where the growling was.
“Gral,� she said softly, listening as the Houndoom’s head turned to face her. “Where’s Okkoto?�
The red eyes stared hard at her before answering, “He’s dead. He burned to death saving your asses.�
The whole tribe stared at the still burning fire, hoping it wasn’t true. Slowly, the smoke began to drift away as the fire burned itself out. The charred forest stood silently, the trees skeletons of what they used to be. The Pokémon made their way through the scarred woods, wincing at the blackened area.
The Eevee looked up and suddenly barked. He leaped and charged to where something half burnt lay. The rest followed slowly, watching the small Eevee nudge the black figure with a paw.
It was Okkoto. Or what was left of him. Most of his body and been burnt but a few pieces of skin stayed on him.
“I told you,� Gral snarled, looking at the group with hateful eyes. “He was shot three times by those humans and then, after saving you, he fell into the fire.�
Lisha whispered something to Ian and released her creatures. Ian did the same and watched as the dogs piled dirt on Okkoto. Gral watched in surprise as a few of the stronger ones carried rocks over. Once the dirt covered the Grumpig’s charred body, Kiore gently placed the rocks at the head of the mound, piling them like a pyramid.
The tribe all bowed their heads at the small grave before walking away. The two Trainers and their creatures followed while Gral stayed behind to stare at the small shrine. She then bowed her head and whispered, “Thank you.� Standing up awkwardly, she felt a wind blow through the empty forest, almost like a voice. Sighing, she padded away, limping on her healing wounds.
A purple and black pig sat lightly on the mound, watching her go. A small smile flashed as he snapped his fingers and disappeared in the wind.

The small group stopped by the river, the only thing moving in the forest. Several plants in the water had survived but everything looked dead on the banks.
“We need to get out of here,� Ian said, washing soot and ash from his face.
Gral waded in the slow moving water, watching it turn a bit red from her fur. After that, everyone stopped touching the water until she was out and it was clear again.
One of the Arons looked down the river and pointed with a stubby arm. The others nodded and also looked down the way downstream.
“The way out is that way, follow the river.� The huge Houndoom watched the two Trainers nod and wave goodbye to the small tribe of creatures. “But, if you ever step back here again, I’ll have to kill every single one of you!�
Lisha looked back behind her and nodded at the Houndoom’s voice, holding up three fingers.
Gral snarled as they left and looked around at the Pokémon around her. She growled and stood up, limping off with the creatures following after her.

“Ha! We made it!� Ian yelled, throwing his fist into the air regretting it. “Ow,� he groaned, rubbing his arm.
“Morning’s coming.�
The boy looked at the sunglassless Lisha and noticed she was right. The sun had already started to rise slowly, sending a prism of colours around the land.
“Hey! There’s Rootwood Town!� he called, seeing a small house in the new light. More appeared as the sun rose higher into the sky.
Kiore ran ahead with an ashy Daemon and Scree.
“Well, we finally got through Dire Mountain Range,� Lisha whispered so that only Ian could hear her.
“So, what’s wrong?� he asked, looking at her.
“Well, it seems like something’s watching us,� she said, shuddering.
He looked behind him but didn’t see anything. “It’s probably just Gral, wanting to bite our heads off,� he said good-naturedly.
She smiled softly but looked behind her as well. She couldn’t see but she could feel the small energy presence.
The purple shadow floated above the ground, sitting cross-legged in the air. The large pig grinned and watched the two Trainers make their way to the next town. He raised his hand and snapped his fingers, vanishing with the wind.

[Otto=ottO]

Too bad about writer's block.

Yay, they're out.

Do the 2 trainers get what's left of the tribe?

So keep posting.

[ZeldaFan20]

For a short chapter, it was actually very exciting!! It was really sad about the Grumpig Leader, though. :(

Rootwood Town, huh? I wonder what awaits are friends here...

[Lady Vulpix]

I will catch up. I will catch up.
Now that my printer's working again I've managed to print chapters 5 and 6, and I'm reading them today. At this rate, and considering the work I have to do for university, I'll catch up in a week or so.

[CodeR3D]

Great chappie!
hope you post the next one soon.
Btw Ladyvulpix cool trophy!
how'd you get it?
EDIT:Nevermind I figured out how.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - Nope. The tribe gets to live with Gral now (that's trouble). Thanks for reading!
Zelda - Heh, I guess I like small chapters better. Yeah, poor Okkoto. Thanks for reading!
Gabi - Dont' worry, you'll have plenty of time to catch up at the new rate I'm going and the announcement I'm making. Thanks for sticking!
Code - Thanks, Code! Keep reading!

Okay, this isn't a new chapter post and I'm sorry about it. I'll be leaving on a trip for a while w/out the Internet so I won't be making any new posts for about 9 days. I promise to have a new chapter up when I get back so don't worry.Just wanted you guys and girls to know so you don't worry like the time I did leave with no warning. So, that's about it. If I don't post by June 30, though, you can start worrying... heh.

[Doomykins]

Yes, I finaly got through reading all of the story thus far. I really like the concept of a blind trainer. I hope that you never let this story die.

Note: I find it intresting that Lisha can feel the different energies. And what could possibly be the deal with the pig?

[ZeldaFan20]

Yikes! Did you know you were on Page 3?! I think you said you'd be away for a while, but I never expected THIS long of a wait. I'm usually a patient person when it comes to these things, but this is ridiculous :(!

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Doomykins - Thanks for reading all this way! The pig will be answered in the near future.
Zelda - Sorry about the long wait. I made myself promise I wouldn't come back until I finished the chapter.

Okay, a bit of writer's block made me stopped for a while but I finally made up something for another story and decided to just include it in this one. It helped, hehe.
So okay, here it is now.
Also, what's up with the small squares now? Stupid things...


Chapter 13

Ian walked along the outskirts of the town. The others, Lisha and the Pokémon, were asleep at the PokéCenter. He hadn’t been able to sleep so he had gone for a walk. The Trainer looked around the small field he was in, the long grass swaying in the slight breeze. Smiling, he continued his walk.
A large explosion rocked the earth, making him stumble. A blast of heat smacked him in the face and Ian fell backwards, awakening some painful bruises he had gained from the mountains.
Shaking his head, the boy scrambled to his feet and ran to a small outcropping of elm trees that looked singed. He pushed back a branch and found a small clearing in the middle of the tall elms. Coughing from the heavy smoke, Ian squinted around and tried to find the cause of the explosion.
The smoke cleared slowly and Ian caught a glimpse of something shining in the setting sun. He approached it carefully, finding it to be a charred piece of metal. Ian stooped down and blinked in surprise at the electric wires crisscrossing behind the chunk. Standing back up, he looked around and found something laying in the bushes to his left. Curious, he walked up to the bushes.
What looked like a small girl was lying in the bushes. Her shirt, navy blue in colour, was singed at the edges as well as the jeans she was wearing. Black goggles covered her eyes and her short brown hair fell in locks around her head. Even standing as tall as she could, she probably only came up to a few inches past his waist.
Grunting, he dragged her carefully into the middle of the clearing and watched as her eyes twitched. She groaned and opened one eye, focusing on the boy kneeling over her head.
“Hey, are you okay?� he asked, watching as she closed her eye.
“That depends,� she started, sounding much older than she looked, “am I alive or dead?�
“Um, alive,� he stated.
She managed to sit up, rubbing her head and pulled her goggles off. The brown eyes, which had been magnified by the goggles, stared up at him. “So, did it work?�
Ian stared at her for a moment before asking, “Did what work?�
“The bomb. Was there any fire?�
Bomb? he asked himself, watching her look around at the clearing. “Um, from what I could tell, there wasn’t any fire.�
The girl looked up at him, grinning. “Then it’s a success. The fireless bomb has been made but,� she said, gesturing around them, “it needs a bit of work.�
She must’ve seen the confused look on his face for she smiled and said, “I’m a bomb expert and a firecracker nut. I’ve been building a bomb that only lets out a blast of heat but no fire for the construction industries.� She then sighed. “It needs some work though. The bomb activates too soon for anyone to get away and doesn’t go very far when thrown.�
“Well, that explains a lot,� Ian said. He stood back up and pulled the bomb expert to her feet. She swayed but kept her balance and went to pick up the chunk of metal he had been examining earlier.
“Oh, sorry. I’m Freda Koto,� she winced at the name, “but everyone calls me Boomer.�
“Ian Feeney,� he said, nodding as he smiled slightly at her nickname. His head snapped up as he recognized it. “‘Boomer Koto?’ The ‘Boomer Koto’?�
The woman laughed. “I guess I’m pretty famous for the firecrackers, huh?� The grin on her face widened as he nodded. “Well, Ian,� Boomer said, pocketing the chunk of metal. “What brings you out here to Rootwood?�
“I’m a Trainer and we’ve come for the Badge,� he said.
“Ah, you’ve come to face ol’ Storm,� she said with a grin. “Guy’s very good at the Electric types. Got quite a few of them.�
Ian shifted from one foot to the other and looked up at Boomer. “Well, uh, I guess I’ll be going.�
Boomer waited a moment as he turned around and started walking away. “Hey!� she called. “If you want, drop by my house tomorrow with your friend and I can help you guys defeat Grant!�
He stared at her for a moment before she answered the question he was thinking.
“It’s the least I could so after helping me a bit,� she yelled, eyes lighting up.
Ian nodded and started his walk back to the PokéCenter.

“So, you met Boomer Koto?� Lisha asked, looking a bit tired still. It was just the two of them since their Pokémon were in the Healing room of the Center.
Ian nodded and smiled a bit. “I didn’t really recognize her at first until she said her name.� He took a swallow of the stew in front of him. “Her firecrackers are one of the best I’ve ever seen.�
“Yeah, my dad uses them for New Year’s,� she said, picking at a salad. The Trainer yawned widely and rested her head on her hand.
“Hey, you okay, Lisha?� he asked, watching her lift her head and stare at him with the blue eyes. She hadn’t been able to get replacement glasses yet.
“Yeah, still a little tired is all.� She smiled softly and picked at her food again.
He watched her for a moment before continuing with his story. “She invited us to go to her house tomorrow if I wanted. Knows the Gym Leader here and says she could help us win.�
Lisha nodded but was barely listening. Her head was aching a bit and she really didn’t feel okay. It didn’t really help that she felt tired as well.
“Li, you sure you’re okay? You’re blanking out,� he said, waving a hand in front of her face.
Her head snapped up and she stared at him for a moment before blinking a few times. “Sorry, Ian,� she said softly, rubbing her temple with her free hand. “Guess I’m kinda out of it.�
Ian watched her stand and sway a bit before dropping back down into the seat. He jumped up and was thankful they were the only ones in the small room. “Li! You all right?�
She looked up at his voice, head reeling. “Yeah,� her voice shook. “Yeah.� Lisha’s head suddenly dropped and rested on her hands. “No.�
The Trainer helped her to her feet, keeping her upright as she started to sway a bit. Ian led the older girl to the room they had rented in the PokéCenter, letting her lean on him. He laid her down on the bottom bunk and waited for a few minutes while she fell asleep.
She was pale, he noticed now. Ian smacked himself mentally for not seeing it when he came back. The excitement of meeting Boomer had thrown off his judgment.
Sighing, he exited the room, walking along the hallway to the waiting area of the Center. He looked at the pictures that hung on the walls, finding one of a man with graying hair with a Raichu, Magneton, and two Pikachus. Underneath the picture was ‘Grant ‘Storm’ Diego with T-Storm, Force, Jet, Kiko.’
No doubt that’s the Gym Leader and his Pokémon, Ian thought. His eyes traveled to the picture next to it, smiling as he recognized the broadly smiling woman in the picture.
‘Freda ‘Boomer’ Koto with Mag, Bomber, Net, Blazer, Rain’ it read underneath. An Arcanine was lying down on her left, holding his head high and coming up to her shoulder. A Raichu stood on the other side of her, smiling softly and holding her paws behind her back. A Torchic sat on her shoulder while a Plusle and Minun stood on either side of the Arcanine. In Boomer’s hand, though, was a small shiny object that resembled a grenade.
Ian laughed as he caught the small joke of the two opposite Pokémon’s names. Clever, he thought, continuing his walk around the small room. The other pictures were of people and their creatures that had gotten in the top twenty of the Neaho League that lived in Rootwood.
Smiling softly, he finally walked back to their room, looking over at Lisha as he pulled off his shoes. She was sound asleep, curled up on top of the sheets. He watched her for a moment longer before climbing up to the bunk above her, reaching for the light switch that was above his head.
The room went completely dark, no windows to let in moonlight. He rolled over on his side, tired from all the events that had happened over the past thirty-six hours. Slowly, he fell into the deep chambers of sleep.

“You sure you’re okay?� he asked for the third time as they walked down the hall.
“For the last time, Ian, I’m fine,� Lisha said, smiling at him. It was true; she was feeling better since last night. “It was just a twenty-four hour virus.�
He nodded and turned to watch Nurse Joy place their PokéBalls on the counter in front of them.
“Here’s your Pokémon, healed up and ready to go,� she chirped happily.
“Thank you,� Lisha said a bit softer than usual, picking up the small devices and placing them on her belt. Kiore’s Ball though, opened when she touched it and the young Kangaskhan popped out, letting out a roar of happiness.
“Let’s go. We still have to find out where Boomer lives,� Ian said, placing the PokéBalls on his belt.
“Oh, she lives just a quarter of a mile behind the Center,� Nurse Joy said, smiling. “Boomer’s a frequent visitor here. Comes around once a week for check-ups for her Pokémon and herself if I press the issue enough,� she explained at the two confused faces.
“Uh, thanks, Nurse Joy,� Ian said in surprised.
The three walked in silence, Ian looking around at any clue for where the firecracker nut lived. Lisha had her hand on Kiore’s shoulder, letting the smaller creature lead her around the area.
Finally, after a half hour of walking, Ian stopped them and looked at the huge house in front of them.
“Well, I think this is the place,� he said, looking at a slightly twisted and burnt mailbox that barely hung on its stand. In white chalk were the words ‘Freda ‘Boomer’ Koto’ in a neat handwriting. “Yep,� he said.
“Yep,� Kiore mimicked, giggling. Her voice was still soft and rusty but she really seemed to be improving.
Lisha smiled at the small voice and followed the footsteps up the walkway.
The Trainers and Kangaskhan stood in front of a steel door, the boy’s eyebrows raised. He reached up and knocked on the metal door.
A moment later, the door opened and a mouse-like head popped out. The Raichu smiled warmly at the three and beckoned them in with a wave of her paw.
The small electric mouse led the group down two hallways and then to another steel door. She shoved it open and hopped down concrete stairs.
Ian gripped Lisha’s shoulder and helped her down the slightly burnt staircase and to another metal door. Kiore, terrified of the small steps, took them slowly, holding onto the railing with both claws.
Waiting patiently, the Raichu nodded when they were all there and opened the third door, revealing Boomer’s Lab.
It was well lit for one thing; bright florescent lights were attached to the ceiling. There wasn’t any carpet but a dusky gray tile covered every inch of the floor. Sleek white, green, and blue tiles decorated the walls in different designs. Every few inches though, was a huge burn mark or a crack.
An Arcanine lifted his head up as they walked in. The corners of his mouth turned up and he trotted over to the newcomers, towering over the others. Tongue lolling, he licked Ian’s face and then Lisha’s, startling her a bit.
“Bomber, leave them alone,� a voice called out. “You’re supposed to be helping Blazer with melting the iron.�
Ian rubbed the dog’s drool off his cheek and watched as Boomer, dressed with a white lab coat that had seen better days and goggles, stood before them. Black ash covered her face and when she pulled the goggles up to rest on her head, there was a distinct difference in colour.
“So you actually came. Most people think I’m crazy,� she laughed. Her attention turned to the taller girl standing next to Ian, watching as she stared around with light eyes. “Hello, you must be the other Trainer. I’m Boomer Koto.�
Lisha managed to grab the hand, looking down at the voice. “I’m Lisha River.�
Smiling, she noticed the milky eyes but said nothing about them. “Come on, just testing out a new firecracker.�
Eyebrows raised, Ian followed the short woman with Kiore and Lisha tagging behind. A few machines beeped around them as they walked.
Suddenly, a Plusle and Minun ran by, moving as fast as they could.
“Mag! Net!� Boomer yelled, watching the two run. “What’s going-�
An explosion rang through the lab and a blast of smoke rose into the air.
“Crap,� the bomb expert cried, breaking into a run. Coughing, she waved away some of the smoke and looked down at what used to be a firecracker. The remnants were burned plastic and still on fire paper. She sighed and stepped on the growing fire with the heel of her boot.
“The new firecracker?� Ian asked, looking at the melted plastic and charred paper.
“Yep,� the woman said, rubbing her eyes.
“Yep,� Kiore copied.
Boomer looked over at the young Normal type and smiled. “Well, that’s new.�
“Boom-er,� the Pokémon said slowly, giggling.
“She’s quite talented,� Koto said. “Young, too.
“Ah, but you’re here for help, not for me to go on about firecrackers and the Kangaskhan’s vocal talents,� she grinned. “This way.�
Turning a corner, the group emerged onto a clear area in the lab. The walls were curved to connect to the floor and the ground wasn’t flat, more curved. The ground was completely dirt though with small rocks placed across the floor.
“This is a simulation of Storm’s Gym floor. The curves help the electricity, he believes, stay in the air longer.
“Storm uses a move that most don’t know about. Only the Trainers who face him know about it and, if they win, have their Electric types learn it. It’s a very powerful move that can wipe out a Donphan even, despite the fact that Ground types are resistant to Electric moves.�
Ian watched the small form move into the middle of the simulation, seeing something like fire in her eyes.
“No one has defeated him on their first time in a year.� Boomer turned to face them, her tiny, thin frame standing up tall. “Let’s beat that, shall we?�
“How do you know about this?� Ian asked, watching her eyes glint. “Did you face him?�
She smiled at him and responded, “He’s my uncle.�

[Doomykins]

Gah, I hat to say this but I can't stand to read. You've got this wierd symbol thing going on. It really takes from the reading until you can't even read.

[ZeldaFan20]

So, Ian meets a girl who's famous for fireworks, huh? Well, she certainly sounds like she knows how to handle 'em (I think...). And did she just say that the Gym Leader was her uncle?! That's gotta be quite a surprise for them! But what's this new Electric move? Now I'm curious!

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Doomykins - It should be fixed now if you're past reading Chapter 8 or 7. If not... then I have no idea.
Zelda - Keep the curiousity, it'll help. Yep, Boomer's a pro at fireworks but she gets a little crazy at times...

Okay, next chapter is now up! Here it is, the new attack!


Chapter 14

There was an awkward silence that followed the statement. Kiore shifted a bit uncomfortably in the tense silence as the humans stared at each other.
“He’s…your uncle?� Lisha finally asked, looking to where she thought the bomb expert was.
“Yes. It’s a bit of a long story actually that I shouldn’t tell you at the moment,� Boomer said, a smirk on her face. “We need to get down to business.�
She moved to the far end of the arena and turned around to face them. Mag and Net appeared, relieved that they hadn’t been involved with the firecracker blast. The two stood beside their Trainer and waited for Koto to explain.
“My uncle, Grant, or Storm as he likes to be called, invented a move that was patented by the Neaho League only because of its effectiveness. He likes to call it the Storm Bomb.� She took a breath before continuing, “The attack is what’s called a Forever Attack. It has no expiration except when it explodes.
“The attack starts off simply. An Electric type charges up all of its power and turns it into five electric balls. The balls, or bombs as they’re called, burrow under the earth and stay there until they explode. The only way they can explode is if something hits it or steps on the ground right above it. Once it does explode, however, the creature that was unlucky enough to step on it becomes instantly paralyzed and loses a great amount of strength.
“It sounds easy to dodge because the bombs are visible when they burrow. But,� she held up a hand, “the bombs move under the ground as fast as sixty miles an hour, making it difficult to reach the opposing Pokémon for most use the attack to guard themselves until they can recover. There is only one-way to get rid of the bombs: to explode them before they come near you.
“It is tough finding out where the bombs are but your best chance is to let loose a heated attack and spread it all over the battlefield. The bombs react to heat as well as pressure and will explode in contact with extreme heat, much like a regular bomb. If you can’t do that, then you’re best bet is to dodge them as quickly as possible. You see, the ground heats up a slight notch when one gets close. Jumping puts pressure on the ground that will explode the bomb and, hopefully, you’re a good distance away.
“Once all five bombs are gone, then you can attack the opponent. If the bombs are rid of quickly, then the only way for the opponent to recover is to use a Recovery move. The faster you get rid of the bombs, the weaker the opponent will be.�
Boomer took a big breath, letting it out in a sigh. “Please don’t make me go over that again. Okay,� she looked up at the Trainers. “Let’s start with you, Ian. Send out one and let’s see if we can train these guys to dodge the bombs.�
Ian looked down on his belt and picked up Pen’s device, tossing it out and revealing the Drowzee.
“Starting with a Psychic? All right then.� Boomer nodded down at Mag who waddled out onto the battlefield, yellow and red body poised. “Now, does your Drowzee know any moves that can run across the ground or a shield?�
Ian looked at Pendule, watching the Psychic nod and hold up one finger. “The first one.�
“Okay, have the Drowzee use a move that can run across the ground all around him. That should destroy all the bombs,� she said and looked at Mag. “Mag, Storm Bomb!�
“Plusle!� the small Electric type cried, cheeks and tail radiating with energy. Lightning sparks shot from her body and suddenly, the electricity erupted from her, forming into small balls.
“Now, Ian!� Boomer yelled.
“Pen, use your Confusion!� he called out.
“Drow!� the large creature yelled, a wave of light purple energy blasting out from his body. It raced along the ground and Ian watched in amazement as the ground exploded in front of him.
“Yes! Good boy, Pen!� Ian said but then watched as the Psychic was flung across the arena and into a wall as something exploded underneath his feet. Worried, he raced out and shook the Drowzee gently by the shoulders. “Pen! Pen, you okay?�
“He’s Paralyzed,� Boomer explained, walking up to them. “Impressive for a first try. Four out of five bombs.�
Ian looked up and noticed she had her goggles on. The eyes showed a bit of concern for the weak Psychic and she looked up, whistling.
“Rain! We need the toxin!� she called out.
The Raichu brushed past a still Lisha, carrying a bottle in her paws. She handed it to the woman, smiling a bit.
“Thank you, Rain.� Boomer turned to the Drowzee, tilted his head up, and poured a honey-like liquid into his mouth.
Seconds later, Pen blinked his eyes open and looked up at the two humans before standing on his hoofed feet.
“Drowzee, drow,� he said, looking pumped.
“Shall we try again? Though, I think we should use a different attack instead of Confusion.� She looked over as Rain took a place in her Trainer’s box. “Ian, let me see PokéDex.�
He handed over the red and black item, watching as she opened it and pointed it at Pendule. “Dex, Pen’s attacks.�
Beeps came from the tiny, handheld computer before it replied in a static voice, “Drowzee knows Pound, Hypnosis, Confusion, Barrier, and Psywave.�
“‘Psywave’?� Boomer questioned, shutting the Dex before it could start talking again. “Well, assuming this is your Starter, that’s impressive that he could learn a move like that.� Koto handed the PokéDex back to Ian and took her place in the box. “All right, let’s try again. Have Pen use Psywave this time.�

Three hours had passed by the time they finally took a break.
Pen had gotten the hang of it after five more times but was still too weak to attack. Moro, not having any kind of attack to block the bombs, relied on her impressive speed, which surprised Boomer, as she dodged all the bombs and knocked out Rain.
Scree had also had to rely on speed or use a Poison Sting to destroy the bombs as they came close. It took about seven rounds to get the Nidorino use to the strategy. Daemon, though, had his Ember and a Fire Spin he had acquired from his father. His energy had been also amazing as he destroyed the bombs and took a hit from one but still went on to take down Net. Raijuta, however, had a lot of trouble with the strategy and it took about an hour and a half to get it down.
“So, Ian, you only chose two Pokémon for the training. That how many you’re going to use?� Boomer questioned, sitting on a wooden chair in her small kitchen.
“Yeah. Firebolt’s too young to battle and Water Flower is weak against Electric types,� he said.
“Then I suggest you ask Grant for a ‘Two Battle.’ Have Pen destroy the bombs while Moro jumps out to attack the opponents.� She smiled and looked at the tired creatures around her. “Lisha, go for just three-on-three.�
A small pause followed the statements as the Trainers looked down at the creatures around them.
“So, uh, Boomer,� Ian began, “You were saying that Storm is your uncle?�
“Ah yes,� she said, leaning back in her chair and causing Bomber and Rain to get out of the way in case she fell. “Well, he’s my mother’s brother and a good guy but a bit competitive.
“I moved here from Oaken City where the rest of my family lives but, well, it was too big and a lot of people knew me. Also, that’s one of the Neaho Region’s best tourist spots so I was always bombarded with firecracker requests. It was too much so I decided to move to a small town.
“Rootwood is one of the smallest towns in the region and my uncle lived here so I decided, what the heck? The town’s been good to me, not letting too many people bombard my doorstep before I have to start throwing Stun Bombs…�
The Trainer’s faces paled and the firecracker inventor laughed. “Oh, I didn’t do that. Tempted, yes, but I didn’t.�
She leaned back a bit more and the chair toppled over backwards. The small woman rolled and sat on the floor, glaring at the chair. Growling, she pulled herself back in the chair and looked over at the laughing Arcanine. Sighing, Boomer rubbed her head and looked up at the Trainer’s who were both stifling laughter.
“So, why are you helping us beat your uncle?� Lisha asked, still struggling not to laugh.
“Because, he brags a bit about not having no Trainer lose a fight to him on their first try. It becomes annoying after a while. Especially at family reunions. Most of my mother’s side wants him to lose as well so I’m doing them a favour,� she shrugged, looking out the window.
Ian looked over at her before clearing his throat. “My mom says it’s a risk to ask this to a lady but,� he paused, “how old are you exactly?�
Boomer laughed and looked over at him as the boy’s face flushed. “It’s all right. I’m twenty-three,� she said. “Most people though, think I’m eleven as you can see,� she gestured with a wave of her hand. Stretching, she stood and nodded to them.“So, let’s get back to work.�

Ian lied on the top bunk; thankful they had rented a room with two bunks. Kiore had the bottom bunk to herself, now finding out she was afraid of heights since their mountain expedition. Firebolt was curled up besides Ian and Water Flower was at the end of the bed. Daemon and Raijuta were curled up at Lisha’s feet, the Houndour puppy tired for once. Scree, Pen, and Moro had the top bunk above Kiore, each in a different corner.
Ian fell asleep rather quickly, tired from the day but Lisha lay awake; staring at the forever darkness she was cursed with. Sometimes, she just wished she could see the colour red or blue again except in dreams.
She shuddered, not really knowing why. Some of her dreams made her wonder but most of them scared her. Most reminded her of the night her mother was killed.
Lisha squeezed her eyes shut, fighting back the urge to cry. Taking a deep breath, she calmed herself and looked down to where two dead weights were sprawled out across her feet. Smiling, she let her mind drift off.

Two days had past since their first day of training with the bomb expert. Pen’s endurance had risen dramatically and he now could fight back after using a Psywave. Moro was doing better with obeying Ian but refused to do anything she thought wasn’t a good idea. Raijuta was doing better with his electrical attacks and Scree could now dodge the bombs as well as attack them. Daemon, his energy unstoppable, could take two bomb hits and still keep going which surprised all of them.
Now, Lisha, Ian, and Boomer stood in front of the Gym, looking up at the two-story building. The bomb expert had come along to see if all that training had paid off. Lisha though, knew she had come to make sure her uncle told the truth at the next family reunion.
“All right, my friends, are you ready?� she asked, looking up at the two taller kids.
“I’m ready,� Ian said.
“Ready,� Lisha stated.
“Ready,� Kiore giggled behind her Trainer.
Boomer led the group inside, looking around the familiar place. “Redecorated a bit I see,� she said to herself as they walked to where a red Trainer’s box was.
“Who wishes to face the great Storm?� a voice called, echoing off the walls.
“Oh, come off it, Grant,� Koto said loud enough for her voice to bounce off the walls.
“Boomer?� A man stepped out, his hair graying along the edges. He was about a few inches taller than Lisha but not much. “Well now, this is new.�
“Ian and Lisha,� she said, gesturing behind her, “are here for the Lightning Badge. I’m here to cheer them on.�
Grant looked over at the two Trainers and then down at his niece. “You gave them some pointers then?�
A grin spread across the small woman’s face. “Come on, you know you’ve bragged too much about not losing to a Trainer on their first try. Most of the family thinks it’s time you’ve been beaten.�
He snorted and looked at the two kids. “Okay, which one of you is first?�
“I’ll go,� Lisha said with a smile. “You went first against Nash anyways, Ian.�
He nodded and followed Boomer over to the sidelines where a stand with rubber holders was situated.
Lisha stood in the Trainer’s box, still without sunglasses but not really caring about the small detail. “A three on three battle, first one to two wins wins,� she said.
Storm nodded and picked up an electric yellow PokéBall. “Let’s go.�

[ZeldaFan20]

The "Storm Bomb," huh? It definitely sounds powerful, but I'll also give it points for the catchy name (laughs). The coming battle should be really intense: you can bet that I'll be there to read it!

I only have one question---and I've been meaning to ask this after reading Chapter 13: instead of the usual Quotation Marks and Apostrophes I'm used to, I'm seeing these really wierd symbols. I've also seen them on all of the other chapters. Is there a problem with your word processor, or is it delibrate?

Don't get me wrong, though, I'm not trying to sound rude; it's just that I'm a little curious.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Originally posted by ZeldaFan20
I only have one question---and I've been meaning to ask this after reading Chapter 13: instead of the usual Quotation Marks and Apostrophes I'm used to, I'm seeing these really wierd symbols. I've also seen them on all of the other chapters. Is there a problem with your word processor, or is it delibrate?

Don't get me wrong, though, I'm not trying to sound rude; it's just that I'm a little curious.

Yes, I know. The boxes are starting to get on my nerves.

From what I think, I believe there is something going on with the site, making apostrophes, the accented E, and quotation marks into small boxes. This is happening to every post I know of but everything starting at Chapter 7 or 8 should be fixed since I've edited the posts (at least on my computer). If it's still appearing on your computer, then something's wrong with the Network or along those lines.

No new chapter, just wanted to point that out before another person asks.

[Otto=ottO]

Chapters close together, good job.
Let's see.... "quote" Pokémon G'day m'friend...

If these turn out well, just change the font you use.

Plus, good job. Good idea with a pyromaniac (I like that a lot) helping them against 'storm' Of course, I hope they lose to show how they can't necessarily win every battle no matter how many tips they get.

[ZeldaFan20]

Well, I've never learned how to do the "accented E," but the quotation marks and apostrophes come out perfectly when I'm writing. Still, good luck getting that fixed :wave:.

[Powarun]

This is a great fic, I have come to read your story once you posted a summary. It appealed to me, and that is why I am here.

I like the whole plot thing at the begining, as how suddenly forgets girls name, Lisha, loses her site, and wants to conquere the others. And how it is foretold she will be great if she puts her mind to it.

I like how you setted up this story, I sort of became confused about the messed up marks, like the ' and such. I can say this is very orginal and one of those fics that I would not want to end.

And how you put in a disabled person was awsome, I tried that and failed, but you are doing a very good job at it. But at tiems it seems like it is rushed, but that is perfectly normal and at chapter 10-20 it does become hard to write for most fics, I seemed to realize.

Your characteritions of pokemon is great, and how you included several eye seeing animals and using some that are not usually found in fics, like Drozee and kangaskan

So over all rating is very near an excellent rating, Thanks for writing this, and your website looks pretty nice.

edit, I had a hard time sleeping after reading this fic, because of the impression of being blind and a pokemontrainer. Gives a man a lot of thought.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - Thanks! Be sure to stay tuned! To do the accented E, go to Insert on Word and to symbol. There's a ton of symbols there and one's the e.
Otto - Thanks! Pyromaniac... I like that.
Powarun - Hey, welcome to the fic! I have trouble with rushing. Hope you sleep well tonight.

Okay, Oz said the problem with the squares is old computers that can't update. If you don't want any squares, my suggestion is click Quote and copy and paste the story on Word or anywhere and it should work. If anyone can reproduce this problem for everyone to see, please post in VB Help under the topic about squares.

Edit: Suzie says it's because of copying and pasting with MS Word. I've changed it all so it should work now.

And without further ado:


Chapter 15

The yellow device flew onto the field and opened, shooting out the red laser. A Raichu appeared grinning wickedly and letting a few sparks fly from his golden fur.
Lisha winced at the strong energy in the room, backing up a notch.
"Scared? Most are when T-Storm appears," Storm said, smirking.
"Oh, shut up, Uncle Grant," Boomer called out, rolling her eyes.
He flinched at his real name and mock glared his niece. "Well, butt out Freda."
"Harsh," she mumbled and Ian snorted.
Sighing, Lisha rubbed her temples and released Raijuta. "All right, boy. Let's see if that crazy girl's plans worked!"
"Hey!" Boomer said, pretending to be insulted. "I prefer insane."
"Okay, let's stop with the talking and get on with the battle!" Storm yelled. "T-Storm! Storm Bomb!"
Raijuta's ears twitched at the sound of the name. He growled and backed up, as the Raichu charged up. Whimpering, he suddenly backed behind Lisha, shaking at the mouse.
Grant smiled and called over, "Well, the battle hasn’t started yet and your Electrike has cowered behind you."
"Raijuta," Lisha mumbled, looking down at where the dog-like creature had gone, pressing his stiff fur against her jeans. He was paranoid of the Storm Bomb, shying away from the battlefield whenever he could. From what Lisha could tell, he was afraid of blasts.
"Since the battle hasn’t started, you can choose another Pokemon," Storm said with a nod. "No penalty."
Swallowing, Lisha knelt down, and stroked the Electric's head crest. She pulled out another device, tossing it.
A roar erupted from the PokeBall as Scree blasted out, head shaking. His eyes burned and stared at the large rodent in front of him.
"T-Storm, Storm Bomb!" Storm yelled, trying once again.
"Rai!" he yelled, cheeks pulsing with electricity. The sparks surrounded him, growing larger as he put more energy into the attack. Concentrating, T-Storm made the lightning form into balls, forcing them to shoot into the ground.
Scree growled, and pricked his ears, body ready to jump. Since he evolved, he had lost a lot of his jumping ability. The Raichu across from him was sitting on the ground, tired from the attack.
The ground beneath his feet became warmer. He leaped into the air and released a barrage of needles onto the ground. Where he had been standing came a blast as one bomb exploded. Snarling, the Nidorino took off, spines standing straight up. He charged, jumping away from the crackling of electricity under his feet. Head down, he ignored the frantic calls of his Trainer and kept leaping.
The ground under his feet where he hand landed heated up. There was no way he could dodge it and let out another Poison Sting attack. A blast rocked the Gym and a scream could be heard over it.
"Scree!" Lisha yelled, trying to hear any signs of him. "Scree!"
"Ni," the Poison type said weakly, standing up lopsidedly. His left side was Paralyzed completely and the curse was spreading. Snarling, he dragged his left legs and seemed ready to release a Poison Sting on the opponent in front of him.
Electricity surrounded him again as a bomb found its target. He screeched, feeling the Paralysis complete its job. Growling, he fell to the floor and laid still.
"Nidorino is unable to battle. Winner is T-Storm," Storm said, returning his weakened Raichu.
Lisha did the same to Scree and picked up the last battling Pokémon she had. Let him last two rounds, please, she thought as she released the hyperactive Houndour.
The dog-like creature howled to the sky, hurting a few ears. His tongue hung outside of his mouth, nearly touching the ground as he watched the floating magnets in front of him.
"Good choice, Lisha," Storm said, watching as the puppy started chasing his tail. "But let's see how good he really is. Force, Storm Bomb!"
The Magneton let out an eerie call before all three of the combined magnets began charging up their energy.
"Daemon!" Lisha called, making the dog look at her with his brown eyes. She smiled, remembering what a Magneton looked like. "That magnet looks like a bone on that Magneton."
His eyes lit up and he howled, racing forward.
"Ah, smart. Attack before the Storm Bomb is released. Force is a sitting duck," Boomer commented.
"Force, float up!" Storm called out, knowing the Houndour possibly couldn't reach the creature ten feet in the air.
Daemon snapped at the retreating magnets and barked, standing on his hind legs. He growled as they flew out of reach and bent his legs, his rear shaking a few times before he leaped.
The Electric type managed to finally finish charging up and released the attack right before the Dark hybrid's mouth closed on one of the horseshoe magnets sticking out from the bottom Magnemite. He hung there, trying to hook a paw on the other magnet so he could climb up to the so-called 'bone'.
"Force! Shake him off!"
The static voice replied again as the huge creature shook itself and swung around in circles. The black and red dog became a blur as it spun faster and faster until the Magneton confused itself.
Daemon dropped and stumbled around the battlefield, somehow dodging the bombs. He finally shook his head and glanced up at the recovering magnets. He grinned and opened his mouth, shooting several Embers into the air.
The fire, attracted to the heat of the bombs, surrounded the puppy. Three bombs suddenly blew up from the flames, causing the rest of his fire shield to disappear.
Howling, the Dark hybrid again charged at the Electric hybrid.
A blast of air and a howl of pain rose into the air as the dog's body heat attracted a bomb to him. He snarled and shook of the remaining sparks in his fur before releasing a Fire Spin at the Magneton, the flames surrounding it. The Steel hybrid tried to escape but hit the firewall and injured itself. Floating up did nothing as Daemon released an Ember right at it.
"Force! Use a Thundershock on that dog!" Storm cried, forgetting that the creature's energy was drained.
But, the Magneton tried and failed, only a few sparks coming from the red and blue tips of the magnets.
Grinning, the dog spit out another ball of fire, exploding an oncoming bomb. Black tongue hanging out of his mouth, the Dark hybrid ran right up to the firewall and sat down on the other side, teasing the Electric type.
Angered, Force charged and again hit the wall, causing a burn on the shiny steel body. Letting out a static call, it hit the wall again and again, wanting to attack the small puppy.
It only took a few minutes before the Force had injured itself too much to go on. The Magneton sank to the ground, fainted.
The firewall disappeared and Daemon smiled tiredly before returning to his Trainer’s side as Storm returned the fainted Steel hybrid.
"Clever for a puppy," he commented. "One on one. Next one decides the winner." He picked up a yellow ball and tossed it. "Roller, go!"
A static voice answered its Trainer's call. The device opened and released what seemed to be another larger ball. The glow around the creature fell and revealed the last opponent, a Voltorb.
"Roller is new and needs some experience which is why I’m using him," Storm said, nodding at the glaring Pokémon.
Lisha looked down at the ones around her. Daemon sounded too tired for another match and Raijuta was still cowering a bit. Scree was out completely. The only one left was Kiore.
As though on cue, the ball on her belt opened up and revealed the young Kangakshan, taller and almost reaching Ian’s height. She cooed and looked curiously at the ball-like creature on the field before running out.
"Kiore, no!" Lisha screamed, her yell falling on deaf ears.
Laughing, the young creature ran right up to the ball and picked it up, tossing Roller into the air. She caught it and suddenly threw it to the wall, making a huge crack.
"Well now, seems Kiore has more strength than we gave her credit for," Boomer stated, leaning back and suddenly falling off the stands. Ian, unable to control himself, burst out laughing and received a punch to the arm as soon as the woman pulled herself back up.
"Kiore," Lisha said, listening as the Kangakshan giggled and ran up to the Electric type. She's treating this as a game. A game with a deadly ball, a voice in her head said.
A grin crossed Kiore's face as she tossed the dazed ball-like creature into the air. In a flash, she was on her back, tail poised to hit. When it got closer, she smacked it with her thick tail, making the Pokemon fly into the wall right above Storm's head.
Dazed, the ball started to come back around when Kiore ran forward and smacked Roller with the base of her tail. A large boom erupted from the creature and knocked the Kangaskhan off her feet. She whimpered and started wailing at the top of her lungs.
The humans and the two dog-like creatures covered their ears. The Voltorb, unable to cover wherever he received sounds, closed his eyes tightly, glowing a bright white. In seconds, an explosion rocked the Gym, smoke billowing all around them.
The gaseous fog cleared and uncloaked the blackened Roller and Lisha who had been unable to get away quickly enough.
"Vol…torb," it said weakly and suddenly stopped.
Kiore cut off in mid-wail and walked up to her play thing, poking it with one claw. When it rolled to the side and didn’t move she nosed it.
"Well, that win was a great big fluke but you won anyway," Storm said, staring perplexed at the young Normal type. He returned his self-fainted Voltorb and nearly regretted it as Kiore started wailing again.
Lisha sighed and tossed an extra PokeBall out onto the field, catching the young creature’s attention and solving their problem.
"According to the rules, I guess I have to give you this," he said, pulling out a black lightning shaped Badge. He tossed it, not really noticing that his opponent was blind.
Raijuta though saw it and leaped up, catching the Badge and placing it in her hand.
Ian stood up and nervously stepped down into the Trainer's box, taking his friend's place.
"Two Battle," Ian said.
"All right," Storm said.
Lisha sat down heavily on the stands besides where Boomer was.
"Fluke," she said, rubbing her head. "Please tell me if I'm dreaming."
"Trust me, those happen all the time," Boomer said, looking out to where Ian was shaking nervously.
Ian released his two battlers, Moro and Pendule glaring as Storm released two familiar Pokémon.

[Otto=ottO]

Wow, flukey. I'm sure everyone doesn't mind now if Ian loses. Of course he might win. Haha, The boomer is very bad a balancing. I laf at her. That's right, I Laf. Very good description. Maybe a bit more on what Lisha was thinking during the battle though.

[ZeldaFan20]

(laughing hard) Wow! A surprise ending to Lisha's battle: Kiore treating Voltorb like a beachball? It's priceless! I wonder if Ian will come out on top too. Way to go!

I'm also glad that the little typo problem was fixed (even though I noticed a couple of errors).

[Powarun]

Nice chapter, loved the voltorb part, and as Zeldafan 20 put it, priceless. Too bad Lisha couldn't have seen it. WOnder if Kiore would do that with Marril. J/King. nice chapter, the battle was very good. and well described without visuals. I would hate to know what would happen if a person had no clue what pokemon was and read this, they really wouldn't even know what the pokemon looked like.

[Wolfsong]

Finally got caught up on one fic. Several more to go. Being sick has its disadvantages. But i'm feeling better now. Anyway, great work. I enjoyed the last several chapters and I eagerly await the next. Keep up the great work. ^^

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - Yeah. Boomer's bad at balancing. And you laf... thanks! I'll make sure to include what the Trainers are thinking in the next Gym battles!
Zelda - Yep, Kiore likes to play. He might...thanks!
Powarun - Hmm...that's a thought, Powarun. Thanks!
Nala - Hey! Welcome back. Thankies!

Okay, this chapter's short...


Chapter 16

"Pikachu!" the two creatures said in unison. Ian stared out as the two rodents bowed at their opponents and stood, synchronized completely.
"Jet and Kiko," Storm said, spreading his hands out, "are identical twin Pikachus." A smirk crossed his face.
Pen, oblivious to what was going on, looked at the two creatures in front of him while Moro rolled her eyes and nodded her head.
"Let the match begin!" Storm called out, his voice echoing off the walls.
"Pikachu!" the two yelled, sliding one foot back for better balance.
Moro growled and went behind Pen, claws out and ready. Pen rolled his shoulders, interlocking his stubby fingers and cracking his knuckles. He cracked his neck and back, disturbing everyone in the Gym.
Storm blinked his eyes, staring as the Drowzee popped his arms.
"That's enough, Pendule," Ian groaned, rubbing his head.
"Drow, drow," he said, his voice slurring as he smirked.
"Okay," Storm said. "Jet! Storm Bomb! Kiko! Double Team!"
"That's new," Boomer commented. "He's never done this before."
Kiko, a grin crossing her short muzzle, let out a battle cry and split, forming a shadow of herself. She growled and again split herself up, making more copies.
Jet, bent over as he charged up, hid behind the copies that formed a barrier around him. His fur stood on end as the energy collected in front of him. Eyes glinting he held the electricity there as Kiko and all of her clones began a Storm Bomb.
"Only ten bombs are real!" Storm yelled over the crackling energy in the room. "But there are forty bombs in all!"
"Pen! Moro! Remember what we went over!" he yelled, watching as Moro raised her blood red paw.
"Drow!" Pen yelled, spreading his feet out and closing his tiny eyes shut. A wave was released from him, disturbing the air and making what looked like a heat wave that a person usually saw coming off of hot streets. Purple energy glowed around him, forming an aura around Moro and him. His breath came in sharp and ragged as he charged up his energy again, the hair on both of the Pokemon's bodies standing on end. He let out a yell and stamped one hoofed foot.
A blast exploded in the Gym, a wind blowing across the Gym. More explosions erupted in the air as the bombs exploded from contact as the Psywave blew across the arena.
Ian shielded his eyes from the light as what sounded like gunshots blew up in the air as the fake bombs exploded. The smoke from the real bombs covered the field, creating a wall of blindness.
"Pen can't create that much power," she said, looking for any sign of the Pokemon.
"He didn't," Lisha said quietly. "Moro put in a lot of her power to help. Zangooses have a bit of Special Attack."
The small woman nodded, impressed that she had been able to figure that out. The smoke began to block their vision. "I can't see a thing," Boomer said, squinting.
"Moro is going for the win," Lisha said, staring intently at where the gaseous fog was.
The pyromaniac didn't ask how she knew but listened as she explained it.
"She's fighting a copy and has destroyed it, going on to another. Another copy but she's getting closer to the real one."

Coughing, Moro snarled as she swiped at a Pikachu. A copy. It disappeared and faded into the smoke.
Snarling like a wild creature, she attacked the next Pikachu with her foot, finding it was also a copy. Rage seared through her as she whirled around, eyes squinting in the smoke. She flexed her claws and ran forward, finding another Pikachu. Moro, her eyes wild, swiped at the creature, finding that it was solid. The rodent cried out, three long slashes in her shoulder.
Kiko, weakened, growled wearily at the enraged and tired Zangoose. She smirked, and the claws came down again, slashing open three more cuts in the bright yellow fur.
The smoke was disappearing finally, revealing the next sight that caught Moro's attention.
Pen and Jet were going at it, both weakened from the power they had both released but didn't seem to back down. Pen caught the Pikachu in the face with an uppercut, snapping the rodent's head back. Jet twirled around, smacking the Drowzee's side with his jagged tail.
Growling, the Psychic brought his hand back and then slammed it forward, palm out. A blast of the last of his energy flew out from his hand, hitting the Electric type square in the chest.
The rodent tumbled head over heels, finally sliding to a stop. He growled, electricity sparking off his fur. On all fours, the creature went into a charge.
Moro, not going down without a fight, raced forward, paw pulled back and claws fully extended. She was going to make, she knew.
But, Jet saw her and put on a burst of speed. She growled and put on her own burst, legs straining to keep going. The mouse smirked and disappeared, appearing a foot ahead of where he had been.
"Good boy, Jet!" Storm called out, returning the unconscious Kiko. "Keep that Agility up!"
The Zangoose snarled and bent down so that she was on all fours, shooting forward faster than ever.
"Quick Attack! Good idea, Moro," Ian said to himself, looking worriedly at the speeding creatures.
She wasn't going to make it. Baring her teeth, she bunched her body up and leaped.
Jet snarled and tried to go faster but it was too late. Moro was on top of him and the two were rolling across the battlefield. Moro ended up on top, punching the Pikachu in the face. Jet growled and scratched the Normal's stomach with his short claws. Snarling, the two again started rolling over as the Electric mouse tried to overtake the ferret.
Pen, his energy drained, managed to stand up. Stumbling, he walked over to where the two Pokemon were going at it. Growling, he grabbed a hold of Moro's shoulder, nodding to her.
Understanding, she jumped away from the Pikachu and let Pen take over.
The small rodent got back to his feet, snarling and baring his teeth at the creature. Pendule, not affected by the growl, put his hands in front of his face, standing on his toes. Jet growled and let loose a punch to the Drowzee's middle, his paw bouncing back.
"I guess being a bit overweight has its advantages," Ian said to himself. Then the thought came. He wants to do this himself.
Pen dodged a kick from the Pikachu, turning around coming in close. His weight was his advantage as he threw his fist out and caught the small rodent in the face again.
Jet snarled as he fell over and flipped back onto his feet, moving nimbly. He pressed his body to the ground and spun, knocking the Drowzee off his feet.
Moro didn't even take a step to help the weary Drowzee. She knew about honour and he wanted to restore some of his. Eyes barely blinking, she watched the two exchange punch after punch, kick after kick.
Until, they both fell over. Moro blinked a few times before glaring over at Storm. She turned her attention back to the Pokemon as both tried to stand up.
Pen, growled as his gaze found the Pikachu's. A second wind came and he regained his footing fully, gazing down at his opponent. Jet, panting, glared at the creature before falling over, the end of the battle.
"Good job," Storm said, returning his fainted twin. "Your Pokemon are clever in the ways of battling," he commented, nodding at the two.
"Thanks," he said modestly, watching as Moro picked the fallen Drowzee off the floor and drag him over to Ian.
"Here," the man tossed his black lightning Badge. "Take it. Now get out of my Gym." Grant, his name stripped from him from losing, walked off and through a door.
Boomer stretched and stood up, jumping down the stands. "Congrats, Ian!" she called, running up to him.
Lisha stood back, smiling softly as the boy tried to get away from the firecracker nut.
Moro, eyes rolling, returned Pen and herself to get away from the rambling and to rest.
"I know!" she said suddenly. "We can go celebrate! And after that, I can rub it in my uncle's face." The woman rubbed her hands together mischievously and headed towards the exit.
"I'm starting to understand why people believe she's insane," Ian whispered to Lisha.
She giggled and stared over to him. "Yeah, but we shouldn't insult her by saying 'no'."
Ian smiled broadly as they followed Boomer, still holding his Badge in his hand.

[ZeldaFan20]

It wasn't as surprising as Lisha's battle, but it WAS an exciting battle for Ian. I can't believe that chubby little Pen was able to finish it all by himself! When Grant told them to "get out of his Gym," was he deeply upset or was he trying to be funny? On the whole, it was a great chapter!!! Congrats!!!

[Powarun]

Very good chapter, it seems Drozee's wight gave him more stamina or HP in the gaming world. A nice battle, and it was neat how Moro reacted by not fighing Drozees battle. Lisha's was cooler though

[Otto=ottO]

Neat how Lisha is like a psychic, seeing without eyes. And lucky Ian that he doesn't have dimwitted pokemon.
I thought of those mafia guys, the really fat and strong ones, when you described Pen.
Poor Moro, he didn't get to kill one of those darned pikachus.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - I believe Grant was trying both. Thanks!
Powarun - Heh...thanks and keep reading!
Otto - Yep. She's really angry about that. Thanks!

Okay...don't know if I've mentioned this before but this is the longest fic I've ever done (now about 60 pages on Word) and the only one I've continued after a while. It's all because of you guys, keeping this alive. It gave me a lot of confidence after I left for a while. I had expected this had gone to the oblivion where all other abandoned fics go. But it was still here, still alive. That gave me hope that this one of those fics that was meant to be here. So, thanks guys and gals.

Okay, next chapter. Also, there's a bit of another story I'm writing in here (story is on TPM). Another short chapter.


Chapter 17

The air warmed around the traveling group, signaling the beginning of noon. It was sunny and bright, a great day for traveling. Too bad the mood wasn't.
"It's not my fault that we're lost!" Ian yelled, standing to his full height. He had grown somewhat over the weeks and was as tall as Lisha now.
"You're the only one who can actually read the map, Ian!" she challenged back, eyes glaring from behind the new sunglasses. They were eye to eye and both seemed to have an anger, just what it was was the mystery.
Kiore, Scree, Moro, and Firebolt watched as the two shot at each other, sometimes taking a few low hits. None of them knew what had triggered the argument but then again, the minds of humans were strange.
Scree raised an eyebrow as the fight continued on. Moro shook her head and rubbed her temple with a paw. The yelling was getting on her nerves and that wasn't a good thing.
"Well, I can do this without you!" Lisha yelled, turning on her heels and stalking away.
"I don't need you either!" Ian called after her, walking in the other direction.
The Pokemon stared in surprise, watching as the Trainers took their separate ways.
"Lisha!" Kiore called, looking after the girl. "Ian?" Her head turned to look as the boy stormed off.
Moro sighed and followed Ian, carrying Firebolt under her arm. She raised a paw in goodbye, not looking back.
Worried, the Pokemon followed after the angry girl, standing as far back as they could without losing sight of her.
Stupid Ian, getting us lost, she fumed, stomping through the short grass that reached her knees. Can't even read a map.
She suddenly stopped, and kicked at whatever was by her foot, finding it to be a large rock. Though her toes ached after she kicked it, she continued with her rage. Today wasn't a good day for her.

Ian snarled as he stormed through the field, looking over his shoulder at times and expecting to see Lisha coming back. It's not my fault I didn't read the map right, he thought, shoving his hands into the pockets of his jeans. Why'd she have to get so angry?
He calmed down, now wondering why he had been so angry. Sighing, he ran a hand through his brown-red hair, remembering a talk he had had with his mother. I'm starting to hate growing up.
He stopped and sat on a large rock, rubbing his face. "What did I do to deserve this?" he asked aloud.
"Zan," Moro said, placing Firebolt on the ground. She knocked on his head and glared at him with her orange eyes.
He looked up at her and got a slap across the face.
"Ow!" Ian rubbed the side of his head, checking for blood. He had been lucky that the Zangoose had used the palm of her paw instead of the claws. "What did you do that for?"
She snorted at him and continued with her glare. "Zan, zangoose."
Ian thought hard about the words before guessing what she was saying. "You want me to go apologize?"
The ferret shook her head.
"Okay, you want me to find her?"
Moro placed her head in one paw and rubbed her temple. She growled at her Trainer before shaking her head.
"You want me to wait until she cools off?"
"Zan," she said, nodding. Moro smiled at him for the first time and began walking again.
"I don't understand woman," he said, picking up Firebolt and following the Zangoose.

Lisha's rage had disappeared after an hour of blind walking. Now, she just walked without a care in the world it seemed.
Daemon had released himself as well as Raijuta. The two dog-like Pokemon had taken one side of their Trainer and helped lead her around as she seemed oblivious to everything else. She finally stopped and sighed, taking off the sunglasses that covered her eyes. With her free hand, she rubbed her eyes and stared up at what used to be the sky but was now a curtain of darkness.
Tired, she sat on the ground and rubbed the short and soft fur of the Houndour.
"Am I acting different?" she asked, looking around blankly.
The Pokemon looked around at each other before nodding.
"Yep," Kiore said, finally understanding how to use the few words she knew.
She groaned. "Great. Just great. Just when it was going all right, I get angry for no reason and blow up at Ian."
Sighing, the Trainer stared straight ahead, still rubbing Daemon's head. It wasn't going to be a great day.
"Hello!"
Lisha's ears twitched a bit and she turned to where the voice was coming from. Standing, she put her sunglasses back on and heard Raijuta and Scree growl.
"Hello!" the voice called again.
The voice was soft and friendly but it gave her the creeps. "Um, hello?"
A hand gripped hers, sending a cold shiver up her spine. There was something weird about the person standing in front of her that put Lisha and her Pokemon on the edge.
"Hi! I was wondering if you could do me a favour?" the voice asked, the woman smiling sweetly.
"Uh, what kind of favour?" Lisha asked, staring at where the voice was. The person sounded older than Boomer but was taller and more sweet.
"Well, you see, I have an egg here that needs to be taken care of. I would do it myself but I'm not allowed to carry Pokemon in this day and age."
Lisha could feel something was off about the woman. But she couldn't say no to her for some reason. "Okay..."
"Thank you so much!" she said, placing something heavy and warm in her hands. "Just keep it warm and it will hatch in a few days."
The Trainer gazed down at the heavy item in her hands, wondering what it looked like. "Wait! What kind of..."
There wasn't any kind of energy in front of her. Nor anywhere else that had been the woman's. Her Pokemon were close to her, Kiore shaking like a leaf.
"Gone," she said in her small voice, clutching the girl's shirt.
Not wanting to know what had been in front of her, Lisha took off her bag and placed the egg inside. Feeling the cold shivers returning, she took in off in a run.

Ian trudged through the grass, looking around at nothing in particular. He sighed and looked behind him again, trying to see if Lisha was coming back. She wasn't anywhere in his line of sight. Sighing, he turned to look ahead and found a strange sight.
A woman was sitting on a rock in the field. Black raven hair fell past her waist and a staff rested against her shoulder. For a minute, he thought that she was a shepard but couldn't find any kind of livestock around.
"Um, hello?" he asked, taking a step closer.
The head turned and stared over at him, brown eyes glinting in the bright sunlight.
"Hello," she said, her voice making the Pokemon around him bunch closer. She stared at him for another minute before asking, "Will you help me?"
He blinked a bit and stared at the intense eyes. "Sure. What do you need?" he asked cautiously.
The woman nodded and pulled something out from the inside of her shirt. A brown egg about the size of a cantalope sat in her hand. Specks of silver and metallic blue speckled the egg and reflected the sun's light. "This. I need you to take care of this."
Ian walked up and stared down at the egg. Finally, he picked it up and looked the egg over.
"Keep it warm. It'll hatch in a few days." She stared up at him and nodded, never showing any emotion. "Thank you."
"What kind of Pokemon is it?" he asked, taking his eyes away from the egg and looking at where the woman had been.
There was nothing there.
Ian looked around quickly, trying to find her. She couldn't have gotten very far was his first thought but there was no sign of her.
A cold shudder rose up his spine as he backed away from the rock. Quickly, he placed the egg in his bag and carefully walked away from the rock.
The woman was watching him her face softening. Another woman appeared beside her, smiling and watching the young Trainer.
"He's kinda cute," she said to her serious partner. "Too bad he's not around my age."
The woman looked up at the younger one, brown eyes laughing. "Only you would say that."
She giggled and waved as the Zangoose looked right at them.
"She can't see us and you know it." Standing to her full height, she looked down at her companion. "We've done our job. Let's go."
The wind blew harshly across the field, stirring up dust. In a flash, the two women were gone from the world again.

Ian stared down at Moro, watching her turn around to look at the rock again. He looked back and found nothing but he wasn't too sure that there wasn't really anything there. Shuddering, he walked a bit faster and stared up at the sky.
Dark clouds were billowing in, promising rain for the field. Wincing he looked down at his two Pokemon. "Let's find some shelter before it starts raining."
The two nodded, Moro walking besides her Trainer and looking back one last time as a wind blew. Still nothing but the faint energy that had been there had vanished with the wind.

Lisha felt the change in temperature and looked up. A loud clang of thunder confirmed her thought.
"Feels like it's going to rain," she said, hand on Kiore's shoulder. "Come on guys, you're better at finding things than I am." She smiled slyly and followed the footsteps that pounded the ground in front of her.

[Otto=ottO]

I tried reading mako's family but I couldn't. I'm pretty picky about pokemon stories.

Poor Ian, having someone like Lisha as a partner, becauseshe's going through PMS or some girlish thing. And Poor Ian for not knowing how to read a map, pretty sad. I never understand how people get lost. Freakish Ladies, I wonder if they are evil or good. If evil, the egg contains something that will eat the trainers. If good, then they are helping out the future of mankind and are fulfilling a prophecy. Ah well, I hope Lisha get's struck by lighting. *Grins Evilly*

Also, it's really Zelda person who kept the fic up.

[ZeldaFan20]

RJ: This is a very interesting chapter. I wonder who those two women were, and why Ian and Lisha were each given an egg by one of them. Hmmm....are they.............ghosts :o?

Otto=ottO: Actually, I think this fic kept going because so many users like it so much :yes:.

[Powarun]

It was a good chapter, Lisha should learn life on her own just in case if something happens. As for the old ladies, I feel that they are ghosts that needed to give out pokemon eggs before they can pass away. And I was thinking more into this fic, and its seems all you give the trainers are baby pokemon, no offence its just a connection I noticed. Well I hope this ends welll and congrats at this fic so far.

[Wolfsong]

Interesting couple of chapters RJ ^^. Sorry i havent' replied sooner, but things keep popping p ^^;;. Anyway grat chapter, and those two women have my curosity peaked as well as those eggs. Keep up the great work.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - *laughs* Okay, won't go over all you said but thanks!
Zelda - Maybe...
Powarun - Hmm...never noticed that. Thanks!
Nala - Thanks and it's all right for not posting.

Okay, sorry for not updating sooner but I found my Internet down for five hours and nothing to do. I started playing StarFox for GCN and got addicted to beat it before my brother does. So here's the next chapter and if I don't update for another five days then I'm playing StarFox and trying to beat Andross (blasted evil monkey). Now the mystery:


Chapter 18

Ian trudged through the grass, looking around for any kind of shelter. Frowning, he gazed around the endless grass sea. Nothing. Not even a tree.
Growling, he pulled the map out of his pocket and tried to make out what it said. The symbols on it looked old and he couldn’t understand what it said. It was in a different kind of language it seemed like.
Sighing, he shoved it back in his pocket and began walking again. Moro trotted beside him, orange eyes looking around because her vision was sharper than her Trainer's.
The clouds were becoming darker and thunder clashed in the sky. Lightning streaked and danced in the clouds, illuminating the darkened area.
Rain began to pour, starting at a light drizzle and then into a pounding storm. Ian began to run, thankful he had returned Firebolt when he did. Moro jogged beside him, shielding her face with a paw. Suddenly, she pointed at something ahead.
Panting, Ian looked up and saw a huge tree in the distance, silhouetted by the lightning. Grinning, he nodded and began to run faster.
Breath coming in and out in gasps, the two collapsed in the shade of the tree, finding it dry. Ian sighed in relief and closed his eyes as the rain pounded around him.
Moro sat up, orange eyes gazing across the field. She took in a breath of the moist air and stood, shaking to dry off her white and blood red fur.
"Hey!" Ian yelped, holding his hands in front of his face to protect himself from the water.
Smirking, the ferret stretched her body and sat cross-legged against the trunk. The Trainer joined her, closing his eyes as the rain's pace quickened.
"I hope Lisha's all right," he said suddenly, staring out across the field.
"Zan," she said, looking up at him.
He smiled and patted her shoulder, waiting to be attacked but didn't receive the usual smack.
A growl made the two look up.
Snarling, a Linoone, gripped a branch above them, ice blue eyes glaring. His sleek body propelled him downwards, landing in front of the two.
Moro took the challenge, standing and stepping out. Orange eyes glinting in delight, she flexed her paws, claws clicking against each other.
The Rushing Pokemon growled, baring tiny but sharp fangs. His claws flexed dangerously as he advanced.
"Moro, I think we should leave it alone," Ian said cautiously, backing away from the creature.
"Zan," she growled, sliding one foot back for better balance. Eyes glinting in the lightning, she charged at the Normal type, one paw pulled back.
"Lin," he growled and smirked. Bunching his long body up, he leaped away, rolling across the ground. Quicker than Moro could dodge, he broke into a run and smashed the Zangoose into the tree.
Smirking, the creature jumped back into the tree and disappeared into the leaves.
"Moro! You okay?" Ian asked, tapping the Pokemon's face gently.
The claws raked across his arm faster than he could blink. The Trainer let out a surprised cry and backed off from the angry Pokemon, hand over the three wounds.
She stared at him watching as a drop of blood fell from between his fingers. Moro winced but refused to help him as he awkwardly tied a bandage around his forearm.
Her eyes looked back up at the tree, growling at it. That creature would pay.

Kiore screeched as a loud bang of thunder erupted in the heavens. Whimpering, she bunched closer to the soaked Lisha as she slid across the muddy ground.
"Why does it have to rain now?" she asked, gripping the Kangaskhan's arm as she slipped in the mud.
Raijuta growled, not exactly liking the cold water. He shook, spraying water onto the two soaked creatures next to him.
"Thanks, Raijuta," she said, trying to dry herself in the pounding rain.
Kiore suddenly jumped up, letting out a happy cry. The young Normal type suddenly started to run, leaving behind the confused Trainer and Electrike.
Squinting, the Electric type finally saw what the Kangaskhan had been so happy about. A huge boulder was sitting in the middle of the field, part of it hanging out so that it covered the area from the rain. A smile crossed his face as he began leading the blind girl over to it.
Lisha fell onto the dry ground, sighing as she found it warmer than the rain. Kiore had curled up, turning most of the dirt into mud. Raijuta shook himself, spraying water everywhere.
"Let's hang out here until it stops," she said, trying to wring out her shirt.
The rain pounded harder, making the sound ring in the three's ears. Thunder clashed and lightning streaked across the sky.
Lisha winced every time the thunder erupted; the noise was louder than it had ever been. Stupid advanced hearing, she thought, clapping her hands over her ears as the tingle of lightning announced itself. Seconds later, the bang of thunder followed suit.
She sighed and rubbed her head. All of the day's events were giving her a terrible headache. And to top it off, her head was growling.
Wait, that isn't my head, she suddenly thought, raising it and listening.
Raijuta suddenly jumped up beside her, teeth bared. Kiore backed up and hid behind her Trainer as the creature appeared.
The claws scratched the earth, making long gashes in the ground. Raijuta backed away nervously as he approached.
"An Absol," Lisha breathed out, feeling the low but heavy energy level of Dark types. The size revealed the Pokemon.
He snarled at the intruders, bright red eyes glaring. The Absol stared at the group before picking out the Electrike, shaking his head and stamping his front leg; the wild way of challenging.
Raijuta took the challenge, stepping out but looking around nervously. He growled and feinted, backing away.
The Absol smirked at the small dog-like Pokemon. He raised his paw and smacked the creature.
He yelped and backed off, small drops of blood sprouting from the side of his face. Raijuta growled and feinted again, this time running to the side and trying to hi the pure Dark type's side.
Smirking, he jumped up as the creature tried to ram his head into his side and landed on top of the Electrike. A laugh bubbled up from the creature's throat as he rubbed the Electric type's face in the mud before sauntering away.
"That was...weird," Lisha said, rubbing Raijuta's head as he whimpered and rubbed the side of his face with his paw. She listened to the rain, hearing it start to lift.
Kiore stuck her head out, feeling the drops lessening. The clouds were disappearing and the sun was starting to shine through them. She let out a happy cry before crawling out from under the rock.
The Trainer followed, shivering a bit from her soaked clothes. She returned Raijuta before jogging after the Normal's footsteps. Sighing, she looked up at where the sky was, seeing only blackness. Something was coming.

Ian groaned and stretched, wincing from the ache in his arm. Moro had barely looked at him the entire time they had been hiding out. Sighing, he walked out into the soaked field, feeling the cold water soak his jeans. The Zangoose walked beside him, arms crossed as she glared around the field. A small electrical force was building around them, making her body switch to an alert stage.
The boy absentmindedly rubbed his arms, the tingle in the air causing his hair to stand on end. He looked around, not finding any kind of Pokemon around.
Growling made them the two stare straight ahead at the Linoone in front of them. His mouth was pulled up in a smirk and he waved a paw.
Moro snarled and took her fighting stance, wanting Round Two to go in her favour.
A second growling made Ian turn around, finding an Absol behind them. His cool red eyes laughed at him and he nodded to the Linoone.
Footsteps made all of them turn to to the side, finding a Kangaskhan followed by Lisha.
The two wild Pokemon grinned at each other before the Linoone jumped out to attack the startled Moro.
Moro, though, snarled and brought back a paw, trying to smash it into the Rushing Pokemon's face. He dodged though and flipped away.
Kiore ran forward, small cries coming from her throat. Her head low, she charged at the Absol and nearly rammed into Ian as the Dark type jumped away.
"Woah, girl," he said, backing away as she slid to a stop.
Kiore smiled and turned around to find the Absol smirking. Snorting, she charged again, missing.
Moro was having better luck. She actually hit the swift creature once but hadn't landed anything else on him. A snarl of frustration leapt from her throat as electricity built up in her fur from the tingling in the air. The ferret let out a primal yell and electricity suddenly flew from her charged fur, smashing into the Linoone's sleek body. He growled and shook the sparks from his coarse hair and stood up.
"Lisha!" Ian said carefully, watching as she jogged to where he was standing.
"Ian? What's going on?" she asked, listening to the sounds of battle.
"No clue," he said. "But Moro's fighting a Linoone and Kiore is fighting an Absol."
"There's something else. There's a lot of electricity in the air," Lisha said, shuddering at the tingling.
Kiore, getting frustrated from missing, growled and charged again. The Absol jumped out of the way but got a faceful of the young creature's tail as she swung it accidentally. Sailing, the Disaster Pokemon screeched as he smacked into the ground hard.
The Kangaskhan winced and looked over at the two Trainers, thinking she had done something wrong.
"Enough," said a hard voice, a woman stepping out from what seemed like nowhere.
"Hey, you're the one who gave me the egg," Ian said, looking at the woman.
She nodded and gazed down at the two wild Pokemon. "You've done your job. Go on now."
The two sighed in relief and limped off back to their homes.
Her attention turned back to the two surprised kids and Pokemon and then behind them.
"You did very well for your first time with them," a light and carefree voice called out. "It usually takes longer for Trainers to beat them but they usually lose against those two. Then again, alone you couldn't do it but together you could."
Lisha turned to where the voice was, remembering it from earlier that day.
"The Trainers that battle those two hams usually loose. They also received eggs like yours but theirs hatched into Spearow that were sometimes released into the wild."
"You, though, are one of the lucky few to actually beat them," the other woman continued, her light voice floating over the area. "So, your eggs will hatch into something most of the world has never seen before."
"But," the hard voice growled, glaring at the kids, "these creatures won't be easy to train. If you don't feel like you can take care of them anymore, release them. They know the way to their home."
"But," the other woman stated, glaring at her dark-haired companion, "they will be great companions for you and will never leave your side unless you make them."
"Protect the species," they both said, nodding to the Trainers before walking away, disappearing on the horizon.
Lisha felt the electricity fade into nothing as the women left. She shuddered again and glanced over at where Ian was standing, rubbing the back of his neck.
"I'm ready to get out of here," he said, backing away.
"Yeah, I agree with you," she said, whistling for Kiore to follow.
"So, you cool with me now?" he questioned cautiously.
"Yeah, sorry 'bout that. But still, how could you not read that map?"
"It's in some sort of different language I think," Ian said, pulling it out from his pocket. "This is the right place but there's nothing about Rootwood Town or Elms City on here! Only Hako Town and Goren Village."
Lisha stopped and stared at his footsteps. "Ian, what date is on that map?"
"What? Oh, well it says...1846," he said and hung his head. "No wonder why it cost so much. I have a 160 something year-old map."
She smiled, patting his shoulder. "That's why you should've paid more attention in History."
He chuckled and nodded.
"Now, let's go. Maybe we'll find someone who can point us in the right direction."

[Otto=ottO]

Wow, how sad. How very sad. You'd think Ian would've looked for the city first, then set out. Where was he trying to go if he didn't know what city.

How do they win? The pokemon beat them without any orders or anything. And it's not like they've trained them for a long time.

Hmmm... Real pokemon, or made up, I wonder.

[ZeldaFan20]

Hmmmm...there's something about those two women and their Pokemon that sounds strangely familiar... On the upside, I'm glad that Ian and Lisha got back together. I wonder what their eggs will hatch into? *chuckles behind hand* A 157-year-old map; what a riot (it is 157, by the way: I did the math)!

[mistysakura]

What common sese does Ian have, going under a tree in a thunderstorm? But then, buying a 157-year-old map isn't too logical either...:D

[Lady Vulpix]

Wow, I've finally caught up!!
Hmm... So many mysteries! Tha Grumpig, the women, the electricity, the eggs... :rolleyes: It will be nice to see where this is all leading to.
Just one question: how could Jet and Kiko be identical twins and have different genders? In that case, they may be twins, but not identical.
Well, your fic is excellent and I'll keep reading it. Hopefully, I won't get so many chapters behind again. Keep up the great work! :)

Oh. The official website has some broken links and still says chapter 17. You may want to check that.

[Powarun]

IT was a good chapter and Ian has no logic, ANd the elcetiricty I thought came from Electike, nice chapter again, and can not wait to see what cracks open, also I had a picture of a chinesse finger trap in my mind hearing the old lady speak when to separate it gets impossible, when two come together it gets beaten or somehting like that

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Otto - Yeah, Ian's not the brightest crayon in the box...*gets smacked* Ow. Okay, nevermind.
Zelda - The mystery will be revealed! As soon as I find something to hit Ian with. Thanks and keep reading!
misty - Hey, welcome back! As I said before, Ian's not the brightest...*holds up a trashcan lid* crayon. Thanks!
Gabi - Welcome back to you too! Er, well, the same as other people are identical twins but are different genders...oh, nevermind. Thanks and I'll see what's up with the sites.
Powarun - *struggles with finger trap* Stupid game...oh, sorry. Thanks and keep reading!

Yay, I'm updating again! I did beat it and now my brother is jealous! Mwahahaha....okay, sorry, sibling conflict.
Okay, I'm leaving for camp on Saturday and won't be back untill Friday. No computer at all. So, please don't leave take this as I'm leaving again (though I may not show up till a week later) but stay tuned. Now, then, this one is short as well:


Chapter 19

Three days had passed and the wandering group still hadn't found any sort of civilization. Tired, the Trainers finally decided to stop at a lake they had found and rest for the day.
Water Flower floated on her back in the cool water, her round tail bobbing on the surface. Kiore had waded in up to her waist and watched as the Marill lazily floated. She cocked her head and tried to do what she was doing but ended up sinking. The young Kangaskhan came up sputtering and hung her head.
The Marill smiled and swam over to her, inviting the young creature to grab onto her tail while she floated. Kiore let out her happy cry and latched on, walking on the bed.
"It's hot," Lisha mumbled, lying on the bank. Her bag was propped up against a tree that seemed to be older than the map Ian had.
Ian was digging through his bag, catching her attention. She listened as he chuckled and bounced something on the ground.
"Up for a game?" he asked, looking down at her.
"Of what? Make fun of Ian's logic?" she asked, a grin on her face.
"Very funny," he said sarcastically. He bounced the ball on the ground, the black and yellow sphere pinned under his foot. "Soccer."
Still grinning, she stood up, brushing the dust off of her. "Fine, Ian. Let's see how Mister Soccer Master is now that he doesn't have home field advantage."
If there was one thing Ian was an expert at, it was soccer and baseball. Whatever team he was on, usually ended up in first Region wide. Except for one year where he had been grounded and their team lost miserably.
It was no different now than it had ever been. The Trainer began by showing off a bit, kicking the ball on the inside of his foot and then bouncing it on his head.
Moro sat, watching her supposed Trainer kick the ball from behind him and onto his knee. She sighed and stood up, walking over to them with a curious Kiore and Pen. Scree, Raijuta, and Daemon looked with awe as they watched the ball bounce from one part of Ian's body to another, probably the only kind of grace he had shown them for the whole journey.
"Well, we have enough Pokemon for a team so, how about your guys against mine?" he asked, rolling the ball on his arm and into his hand.
"Well, seems I have more players than you. And don't you dare say anything about your skill or I'll slap you."
Her warning only made him smirk and a glint came to the green eyes. "All right then, I'll say that you should have more players because of my team having more upright players."
Even with the sunglasses on, he still saw her eyes narrow at him. "That isn't a good excuse, my friend, but will save your hide."
He let out his breath but she grabbed the front of his shirt, the sunglasses tipped so her forever milky eyes stared at him.
"But only for a little while."
The Pokemon learned quickly, Scree, Raijuta, and Daemon having a bit of trouble getting accustomed to hitting the ball with their head. Kiore would sometimes mess up by picking the ball up but she caught on and proved to be as valuable as Ian, if Ian had a tail and if Kiore was very coordinated with her legs.
Lisha grinned and kicked the ball to the footsteps across the 'playing field' and laughed as the Electrike knocked the ball and into the makeshift goal.
"You're losing, Ian! For once, I will beat you at something other than school!" Lisha called over to the boy, the grin still on her face.
Ian smirked and nodded to Moro, his other player. Pen was the goalie, heaving from the exercise. His long nose was stretched out, wobbling about from breathing so hard.
He nodded to Moro, lifting the ball onto the inside of his foot and kicked it upwards, knocking it towards the Zangoose with his head.
Moro balanced the sphere on her head, grimacing as Scree began to charge her. She bunched her body up and jumped, the ball flying through the air towards her Trainer.
Raijuta growled and leaped, trying to block the ball but missed and rolled in the dirt. He growled and went after the Soccer Master, his speed superior to most and sliding to a stop in front of him.
Smirking, Ian kicked the ball behind him, passing to Moro as she retreated down onto all fours. Her head bent back to accommodate the soccer ball before she slid to a stop, making dust fly into the air and into Raijuta's vision. He yelped and backed away, rubbing his eyes with his paws. The Normal type growled and kicked it over to Ian, smiling when he kicked it past Daemon and into the goal.
"Tie game, Li. Next one to score wins," Ian grinned. He tossed the black and yellow ball to Kiore and took his place opposite of Lisha.
Kiore, still very uncoordinated, swung her leg but missed.
But her tail was her golden tool and it accidentally smacked the ball, sending it straight for Pen.
The Drowzee screeched as the ball hit him in the head. To Ian and Moro, this was the only chance they had as their goalie was out cold.
Ian ran out, saving the ball from the Electric type that snapped at his ankles and kicked it into the air, bouncing it on his head. He grinned and let the ball roll down his back, kicking it back up with the heel of his foot. Grinning, he smashed the ball ahead, chuckling as Lisha slid to stop him but missing.
Moro let the ball bounce off her chest before turning around and smashing it to the goal.
Daemon growled and leaped, blocking the ball and knocking it back onto the field. But Ian had appeared, kicking it to the opposite side of the goal.
"We win!" Ian yelled, throwing his hands up into the air.
Pen lifted himself on his elbows, his head spinning and throbbing. A large red mark had appeared on his forehead. He grinned and then fell backwards again, arms spread.
"Oh, come off it, Ian," she said, petting Daemon's head. Lisha walked up to him and patted his shoulder before slapping him upside the head. "That was for your remark earlier," she said before he could complain.
He rubbed the back of his head, wincing from the sharp pain. Grimacing, he returned the unconscious Drowzee and walked over to where Water Flower had been watching them in the lake. "Do you understand women?"
The Marill giggled and dove underwater, her light as air tail the only part of her body that appeared above the water.
Sighing, he plopped himself down and pulled the egg out of his bag. It was warm and seemed to be pulsing with energy. The specks on the egg were larger than ever, reflecting the sun's rays like Lisha's sunglasses.
He looked over at Lisha, finding she had also taken out her egg and was rubbing it with the palm of her hand.
"It's strong," she said quietly. "Extremely strong."
Eyebrow raised, he rubbed the egg and felt it jerk slightly. A small chirping sound was coming from inside the egg and a tiny crack appeared along the top. "It's hatching!" he called out excitedly, holding the egg carefully.
"So is mine," Lisha said, but she didn't look as happy.
Ian looked over at his friend, watching her hold the egg cautiously. "What's wrong? We're finally getting to see what's inside this egg!"
Her brow creased and she looked over at his voice. "What if it...isn't nice?"
"Well then, we run for life!" Ian said, laughing. "Seriously, why would those women give us eggs if they were going to kill us?"
Lisha shrugged and held the egg closer staring out at the lake. The egg in her arms was shaking, as though the creature inside was trying to shake the egg.
Ian looked down at his egg, wondering if his friend was getting on something. The women had been eager to get rid of the eggs after all. But why would anyone try to hurt them?

The group had decided to camp out by the lake, not wanting to jostle the eggs. Both brown-gray eggs were wrapped up with blankets, keeping them warm.
Lisha had fallen asleep, curled up on her sleeping mat. Kiore was besides her, snoring quietly. Daemon and Raijuta were draped over her legs, the Houndour's leg twitching every now and then.
Moro was propped up against the tree, eyes closed. Pen, a bandage on his head was sitting up with Ian and Scree, watching the two eggs.
"So, what do you guys think they are?" he asked, looking at the two.
Both shrugged and watched as Ian's egg split open further. The chirping became louder as a small piece fell off. A gold eye peered out at them before disappearing in the darkness.
"Lisha! Come on!" Ian shook his friend's shoulder, watching as she stared up at him in confusion. "They're hatching now!"
"Wha...why you waking me up?" she asked, her mind not thinking clearly.
He didn't answer, just ran over to the eggs and watching as a chunk from Lisha's egg fell from the side.
The girl stood up and collapsed besides him, rubbing her eyes. A screech woke her up immediately, making her jerk and stare down at the small egg.
Barely breathing, Ian watched as a scaly leg suddenly kicked a large piece off of the top. He grinned and decided to help the creature along, peeling off pieces of shell and tossing them aside until the Pokemon was revealed.

MWAHAHAHA!!!!

[ZeldaFan20]

Wow! So the eggs are finally hatching, but...WHY MUST YOU KEEP US IN SUSPENSE AGAIN?! I'm just joking, it's a really terrific chapter; I can't wait to see the cute little babies...uhh...wait...a "scaly leg?"...that can't be very cute...

Just one thing I noticed, though: technically, if it's both Baseball AND soccer,...it's not ONE thing. But I'm pretty sure that was intentional. Once again, another great chapter. Congrats!

[Powarun]

Nice chapter, well Ian, you probally would win versus a blind person. Even if they are specially tallented, it woud give him a huge advantage. The pokemon playing soccer was pretty good,a nd I realized something, Lisha can tell a pokemon attacking, the ground they are on, and the sounds they make, what about a flying pokmeon, they don't touch the ground often.

[The Prophet]

CURSE YOOOOOOU! Why must you keep us in such suspense?

Other than that, cool chapter.

[Otto=ottO]

Wow, that Drowzee is weak. I thought pokemon were supposed to be extra strong, but that was just weak. I bet those new pokemon will be just as weak. I don't know if I really want to comment on this story, I rather just read it.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - Because I'm heartless and cruel...Nevermind. Oh, about the last part, eh, I was just going to make it soccer but put in baseball as well. Keep reading!
Powarun - Yeah...then again, Lisha had more players. About the Flying types, different birds make different noises when they fly. Kinda like how you can tell an owl from a vulture, vultures fly noisily while owls barely make any sound at all. Thanks!
The Prophet - Hey, welcome! *points up to the first part of what she said to Zelda* Thanks!
Otto - All right, Otto. Keep reading!

Okay, here we go!


Chapter 20 *woohoo!*

Ian stared down at the tiny creature in the egg, watching her blink her eyes open and gaze at him.
It was a little bird, fluffy brown speckled down covering her small body. A long, golden beak poked out from the head, hooked a bit in front. Her long neck connected to a small body with long, useless wings at the moment. Long, scaly legs with what looked like slicked down were tucked under her body. She blinked her gold eyes and chirped weakly.
He reached down into the egg and scooped up the tiny bird, holding her body gently as it looked fragile.
Lisha had awkwardly picked up the bird inside her egg, holding the baby creature with utmost care. "What is it?" she asked, trying to picture the Pokemon in her head as she ran her fingers over him.
"I...I don't know," he said, looking down at the bird.
"It's a Glitain," a voice behind them said.
The two Trainers turned around quickly and found the two women standing a few feet away. Electricity had begun to build up in the air again.
"A what?" Ian asked, feeling a bit of a chill in the once warm air.
"Ask your PokeDex," the dark-haired woman said.
Shrugging, Lisha pulled out the portable device and opened it. "Glitain."
Static buzzed out from the PokeDex as it completed the search. "Glitain," it began in its static voice, "the Glider Pokemon. Height; four feet from tip of beak to tail. Wingspan; seven feet on fore wings, four feet on back wings. Weight; twenty pounds.
"Thought to be extinct at one time, the Glitain is coming back but endangered. Hard to train, most Glitains are seen in the wild and almost never in human care.
"Not much else is known about the Glitain. Scientists believe that the Glitain used to be a Fearow but evolved over the centuries to become accustomed to the thin air that they fly in. Glitain comes from 'Glider' and 'Mountain'."
A picture appeared on the screen and Ian stared down at a metallic blue coloured bird with long legs with long flight feathers on its legs. A small tuft of feathers were aligned with the gold eyes.
Suddenly, a new picture appeared, showing another picture of the bird with black markings under the eyes. Underneath the picture, text appeared.
'Kanto Glitain'
Another one appeared, the black markings gone but the feathers were lighter with blue specks all over the body.
'Johto Glitain'
"How many are there?" Ian asked, watching as another one appeared, the tufts on its head longer.
"However many they've discovered," the younger one said, smiling. "The Glitains are a bit like Spinda except they differ from regions."
The last one appeared, the black markings returning only they completely encircled the head and the claws seemed a lot longer than the others had been.
'Neaho Glitain'
"The one you have will be a Neaho Glitain. They will serve you well." She nodded at them before standing up and motioning for her younger friend to follow. In seconds they had disappeared from sight.
"They're creepy," Ian said, shuddering.
Lisha nodded and gently laid a hand on the small bird's back. The down tickled her fingers and made her smile.
The Trainer looked down at his little bird, watching as she chirped again and tried to stand up. She fell back down and gazed up at him with the gold eyes, ruffling her soft feathers.
"I think I like them like this," he said, petting the small bird.
Lisha's began to chirp loudly, flapping the long, useless wings and looking over her shoulder.
Ian stared at the little bird and then followed the Glitain's gaze, blinking in surprise.
Lights were glowing over the hill, causing an aura to appear on the swaying grass.
"Well, I'll be," he said, laughing softly. "Our luck's come back."
"What?" Lisha asked, looking around blindly and hearing him start to put away the scattered items.
"The town's right over the hill." Slinging his pack on, Ian switched the Glitain to his right hand, cradling her. He picked up Lisha's bag and dropped it near her. Blinking, he watched as the bird in his hand chirped and started to climb up the sleeve of his shirt, her claws and beak digging into the fabric. She perched on his shoulder and settled down, the down tickling his cheek.
Smiling, he watched as Lisha's Glitain did the same thing and chirp softly.
She picked up her bag and hesitated before picking up the little bird and placing him on the bag strap.
"Come on, Kiore," she said, looking over where the snoring was coming from.
Ian shook his head and began to walk over the hill.

"Welcome to the Pokemon Center," Nurse Joy stated happily, smiling at the two Trainers. "May I help you?"
Ian smiled and picked up his PokeBalls, returning the ones around him. "Can you give our Pokemon a rest?"
"Certainly," she chirped, taking the capture devices from his hands and waiting while the girl clumsily handed over hers. "They'll be ready to go tomorrow morning."
"Thanks," Ian said with a smile. A poke in the ribs from Lisha reminded him of what he was forgetting. "Oh, and we'd like a room with two beds, please."
Her smile faded and she gazed sadly at the two Trainers. "I'm sorry but all of our rooms are filled. The Neaho Championships started today and all the Trainers are staying to watch them on the television."
"Oh," he said, slapping his forehead and disturbing the baby bird on his shoulder. Of course, he thought, the Championships always start on August first.
"But, I believe the hotel across the street still has some rooms left. You could check there."
"Thank you." Lisha nodded to the woman and followed Ian's footsteps out the door.
The cool night air met them, a short breeze blowing and ruffling the birds' feathers. A large semi blasted past them, causing the tiny Glitains to shriek.
"Come on," Ian whispered, petting his Pokemon to calm her. "Let's go find a room."

Three hotels later, the two Trainers were in separate rooms, taking the only opportunity they probably had. The room was small but that was fine with her, easier for her to get around and to remember where everything was.
She placed the little bird on the bed, taking a blanket from her bag and wrapping it to look like a songbird nest. Smiling, Lisha picked the baby Glitain up and set him down in the makeshift nest.
He chirped happily and rested his head against the side. His neck curled around and his wings spread out against the soft material.
Lisha smiled and brushed her fingers against the wall, finding the doorframe to the bathroom. Sighing, she fought the door open and turned to where the small Glitain was sleeping. Smiling again, she turned and closed the door behind her.

Ian sat on the bed, pulling off his shoes and relaxing his feet.
The chirping on the bed made him smile and look over at the bird.
She was flapping her wings fiercely and chirping loudly and somewhat desperately.
He got to her eye level and stroked her head. "What's the matter?"
The bird bit his finger hard.
"Ow!" he yelled, grabbing his hand and jerking away. Looking down at his finger, he found a small cut with a drop of blood oozing out. "I guess you're hungry."
Taking out his PokeDex, Ian opened it up. "What do Glitains eat?"
A buzz sounded as the page opened up to the picture of the Pokemon. "Glitains in the wild eat anything from seeds to small mammals. Young Glitains eat partially digested seeds or insects that their parents bring."
He winced a bit and sighed in relief as the Dex continued.
"In captivity, Glitains usually eat birdseed or strips of meat or insects. Young Glitains eat smashed up birdseed or small squares of raw, ground beef."
"Okay then," he said, snapping the Dex close and catching the bird's attention. "I'll go and find some birdseed for you. Be right back!"
The small Flying hybrid blinked in surprise as he ran out the room and listened as the door locked behind him. Turning her attention to the end of the bed, she gazed at the shiny metal. Standing on her shaking legs, the Glitain stumbled forward and sat next to the metal object.
She remembered that the boy had used the shiny thing to stick in the metal outside of the door and open it. Click means that it wouldn't open, she thought, nosing the object with her beak.
Waddling like a duck, she began to push the metal off the bed. The keys fell of the bed and thudded against the floor. She flapped her small wings and fell off the soft mattress, hitting the floor softly as her muscles strained. Shaking her head, she pushed the shiny metal to the door that they had entered through and waited for the footsteps.

The boy pounded his fist against the door, silently cursing himself for forgetting the keys. "Lisha! Please open the door!"
"Okay! Okay!"
Swinging open quickly, Ian nearly fell in as he had been leaning on the door. He looked up at her, finding she wasn't wearing her sunglasses and her hair was dripping wet, soaking the short sleeved, long nightshirt she was wearing. Her arms were crossed over her chest as she leaned against the doorframe.
"I locked myself out of my room," he said, looking down in embarrassment.
She rolled her eyes, sighing. Forgetful, she thought but smiled softly. But he's Ian. "Okay, let me get the keys."
He waited while she reappeared minutes later, holding his and her keys in her hand. Ian led her down the hall to his room and rubbed his head.
A clinking made him look down, finding his keys on the floor, halfway under the door. He picked them up, turning them in his hand.
"I think our new guys are smarter than we imagined," Lisha said, laughing as Ian stared dumbfounded at his keys.

[Powarun]

Nice chapter the little birds are awsome, teh name is hard to spell for now, Glitian, and they are cool, are you going to give tem cool names like the others? What type are these bird things, I want to say steel flying but they could be psychic steel, or normal steel with a levation ability which is why they have glide in their name.

[The Prophet]

Did you get the Glitans from the Future is Wild on Animal Planet?

[ZeldaFan20]

Glitain...Glitain...isn't that the password that the two woman in your other story used? I've been reading that too, but never got around to posting there :). These little baby birds sound incredibly cute, and their grown-up versions sound very powerful! They're smart too---at least that's what I know after Ian's bird pushed his keys under the door :yes:. Another great chapter! I wonder if those two ladies will show up again...

[Otto=ottO]

Hmmm... Reminds me more of Gligars then Fearows. Then again, those glitains have feathers, while bats don't. Oh well, good job.

[Lady Vulpix]

Oh, new pokemon! The weird is getting weirder, but the fic remains as good as ever. :) Will you be giving any hints as to what's going on? And will the ghost Grumpig return?

[mistysakura]

Hmmm... cross-fic new Pokemon...
I've decided that i like Glitains. Great description as well, as usual.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Powarun - Actually, they're like most of the other Flying hybrids, Normal/Flying. I would've done Ice/Flying but, ah, I think the Normal makes them more related to the Fearow. Thanks!
The Prophet - Yes ^-^ I loved them since they were so cute. A few changes and now they're mine...you might see some more from the show if I like them enough (and when I watch it. Been slacking off). Keep reading!
Zelda - Yes it is and I'm glad I have another reader over there. Thanks!
Otto - Hmm, never thought of that. Kinda do but they're birds. Keep reading!
Gabi - Maybe...depends on what kind of hints you mean. He'll appear again but I won't tell you when. Keep reading!
misty - ^-^ Thanks!

Okay, sorry for the lack of updates but school's started -_-" I've got piles of homework as well so expect a new chapter every week or two. Ironically enough, my school feels like a prison and was designed by a person who designed prisons...


Chapter 21

Lisha met Ian outside of her door; the small bird perched on her shoulder. Ian's was nestled on his head and tugging at his hair. He winced when she pulled too hard but didn't want to get bit again so, he left her up there.
"You know, she's gonna get used to that," Lisha said, looking at her friend as they trudged down the stairs.
"She's already bitten me four times. I don't want another cut," he replied, gazing at his left hand. Three Band-Aids were wrapped around his fingers and one was across his palm.
The girl snorted and struggled not to laugh at Ian. He just rolled his eyes and made his way out of the hotel and down the street to the Pokemon Center. Lisha ran to catch up with him, recognizing his footsteps out of all the other ones that slapped against the pavement.
Twenty minutes later, both Trainers strode out, Pokemon on their belts except for Firebolt who lounged in Ian's arms.
"Hey, Li," he said, looking to his right. "Think Firebolt is ready to battle? Kiore is probably around his age and she's battling."
She shrugged and took off her sunglasses. "Depends on how well he can battle."
Ian stopped and gazed down at the red form in his arms. Suddenly, the small Magby began to inhale deeply, eyes squeezing shut. Lisha barely managed to run to the side as the Fire-type sneezed, flames erupting from his nostrils and mouth. The fire traveled a good ten yards before it ran out of power and faded into the air.
Firebolt sniveled and ran an arm across his nose, looking up at the awed Trainer. He cocked his head and stared down at Lisha who had fallen backwards in her effort to dodge the sneeze.
"I think he's ready," Ian mumbled, rubbing the Magby's head.

The Royal Seaking Cafe was crowded, even at seven o' clock. Trainers from all over were sitting in booths or at tables, conversing with their old friends or new ones they had just met. Most were giving out strategies for defeating Gym Leaders while the others were showing off their Pokemon.
Lisha sat in a large booth, her's and Ian's Pokemon gathered around. Kiore sat at the table, not having to use a booster seat anymore, and ate the sticky pancakes that looked like they had come from a frozen package. Daemon, Scree, and Raijuta sat around under the table, sharing food from a large bowl. Moro and Pen sat together on the over stuffed seat, reluctantly sharing a plate of eggs and bacon. Water Flower was sitting on Lisha's left with Firebolt, eating another plate of the frozen pancakes.
Ian walked in, both Glitains on his shoulder and a bag of birdseed under his arm. He tapped Lisha on the shoulder and smiled when she started and stared up at him. The Trainer slid off her headphones and Ian pushed the 'Pause' button for her.
"Have a good trip?" she asked, scooting over so that he could sit down on the crowded booth.
"Yeah," he sighed, happy to be off his feet. The baby birds shuffled down his shoulder and onto the table, chirping up at him. "Learn anything new?"
"Yep," she said, stretching her arms. "It seems that Glitains grow up fast. They learn how to fly at as low as three months. Glitains also grow about half an inch every two days which means they'll be full grown when they fly."
He nodded; smiling a bit when the birds dove into the food he had smashed up.
"My Arcanine's better than yours," a Trainer from halfway across the room bragged.
"Nuh-un," his friend replied, holding up an Ultra Ball. "Mine is."
"No, mine is," the other guy insisted, glaring down at the younger kid.
"I smell a fight coming on," Ian muttered, rolling his eyes at the two Trainers.
The door to the Cafe opened, the small bell catching everyone's, even the fighting Trainers, attention. A large Arcanine trotted in, packs hanging around his sides and a leash attached to his collar. Eyes lit with delight, his tongue hung out of his mouth as he watched his Trainer wheel up.
Ian blinked in a bit of surprise, staring at the girl and then the wheelchair that was the only way she got around by herself.
He then remembered something he'd seen on TV about the first ever disabled Trainer traveling the world by herself about two years ago. Lisha had been in the hospital receiving an eye surgery that could restore her eyesight but it didn't work. He'd been alone for an entire week and had found the TV to be a perfect place to spend his time. While flipping through the channels, he'd come across a news station that reported that a girl about ten had set off with an Arcanine, a Phanpy, and a wheelchair. He'd been impressed and found that if she made it, Lisha could probably make it as well.
"Hello," a voice snapped him from his thoughts, seeing the girl in front of him. "Any room?"
"Uh, sure," he said uncertainly, watching her smile and unhooked the Arcanine.
He yawned and shook his fur, the orange, black, and cream-coloured fur blending into one another. His eyes rolled a bit as his brain rattled and he stumbled before sitting on the ground.
"I'm Brittany," she said, smiling warmly at the two Trainers while the talking resumed in The Royal Seaking Cafe.
"Ian," he said, nodding.
"Lisha," the Trainer said, pushing her sunglasses up.
The Arcanine barked, nudging his Trainer with his nose.
"This is Chance," she said, laughing a bit as the dog-like creature held his head up proudly.
Lisha tapped Ian in the side, making a few motions with her hand. He noticed them and signed back, her hand feeling the different movements of the unspoken language.
The TV blinked on before any of the three Trainers could say anything and a picture of the Neaho Colliseum appeared on the screen.
"And here we are, awaiting the Trainers that will participate in the two hundred thirty-eighth Neaho League Championships!" a reporter chirped, smiling at the camera as it shifted to the ground view of the colliseum. "Established in 1765, the Neaho Championships have had various winners. The first ever to win in the Championships was Trevor Watamoro, an excellent Trainer who blew away the competition with his team of a Zeaco, a Swellow, a Mightyena, a Venusaur, a Hitmontop, and a Rapidash.
"The Championships blasted away after that. Trevor never did show up again but plenty of Trainers took his place as the Champion, including a possible, but not yet confirmed descendant.
"Last year's Champion was Jiy Hiko, and she returns today to keep her title! It might be harder than last year as several Trainers from the year before are with us at this very moment, waiting to get back on the field and show us their stuff!"
It was amazing how quiet the cafe had been when the TV blinked on but now, it was full of cheers and yells as the screen switched to announce the Trainers.
Lisha chuckled and picked up the terrified bird, holding the itty-bitty creature close to her. "It's all right, Zephos. It's all right."
"And look at those determined faces of the Trainers and their Pokemon! We get a good look at the first Pokemon these excellent kids and adults received as they walk out with them!
"We'll take a break but after this, the Neaho Championships will blast off with our first pre-round battles to see who gets eliminated in the first round!"
"So, I can tell you're new Trainers and would like to ask how many Badges you have," Brittany stated, starting up the conversation.
"Two each," Ian replied. "We just started three weeks ago."
"Very good timing," she commented, "I started a few days after the Willow Town Test and got registered for the Neaho League. I'm from the Juki Region and decided we needed another go somewhere else."
"How many Pokemon do you have?" Lisha asked, skillfully dodging a squirt of maple syrup as the Kangaskhan struggled to pour more on her already syrup-soaked pancakes.
"About twenty-seven in all. Only six come around with me and that includes Chance."
The large Arcanine looked up from his spot on the ground and grinned widely, all teeth showing. His large tail wagged, dust floating into the air.
"He's sweet but not much of a battler," Brittany explained. "Knows how to do his job though."
Chance barked in agreement and gazed over the tabletop to Lisha. His head cocked to the side and he blinked in a bit of surprise.
"Notices things well, like how you're blind, Lisha," she stated, leaning back in the wheelchair.
"Clever," she said, petting Daemon who had rubbed against her leg in an attempt to gain more to eat.
The TV blinked back on but the Safety Screen appeared, announcing that the program was having technical troubles. Of course, this got a lot of the Trainers in the Cafe wound up and angry that they were missing the first round. Someone even tried to throw something at the TV to the worker's horror but missed terribly and hit another Trainer.
"Stop!" someone yelled, much to everyone's relief. "Let's just have our own tournament. There's a battling park a few blocks from here that can hold us all."
A few shrugged in agreement while the worker exhaled heavily behind the counter.
In minutes, nearly every single Trainer was walking down the sidewalk, predicting who would win and who would miserably lose. Ian and Lisha stuck to together, returning all but the baby Glitains to their PokeBalls. Brittany and Chance were behind them, the huge Arcanine taking up half the sidewalk.
"I heard you whispering to the Glitain," Ian said, "did you name him?"
"Yes, actually I did. I thought about it for a while." She paused, stroking the bird's soft feathers. "His name's Zephos. It's supposed to be the name of a Wind God in another culture."
Lisha was book smart so he wasn't the least amazed she knew that. "Cool name," he said, holding his hand up for the bird to perch on his finger. "I still haven't found a name for her yet."
The large group arrived at the park, reserving two of the six battle arenas. They were separated into two groups, which also meant that Ian and Lisha were on different sides. Brittany was with Ian, which scared the Trainer a bit as she was a two year veteran to Pokemon.
The two teams were seated on the battle arena bleachers, each arena with two refs who would do the pairing. Each Trainer wrote his or her name down on a piece of paper and put it in the boxes that were been brought out. Lisha, this proving to be a problem as she hadn't written anything for a long while, turned to where Ian was sitting, which was conveniently behind her. He handed her the piece of paper with her name on it and proceeded to write his own down.
"Any room for me?" a familiar voice called that sent a few shivers up Lisha's spine.
She clenched her jaw when she felt Dustin stare at her and barely held back the urge to walk up and punch him when the refs said he was allowed to join the team she was on.
It didn't make much sense how he could've made it to the town in at the same time Lisha and Ian did. Then of course, the two of them had been lost in the field for a long while.
The ref's voice brought her out of her thoughts and she listened as the pairings were given. She'd be in the fourth round against a guy named Rob and Dustin would be in the eleventh round against a woman named Mae.
Ian winced when he heard Dustin's voice but he didn't turn around to look. The pairings were being listed off and he was in the second round against another guy named Frank. Brittany was fighting in the seventh round against someone named Kim. He sighed and hoped to whatever deities there were that Lisha didn't sock Dustin in the face and that she didn't have to battle him as that would probably turn into a death match.

[ZeldaFan20]

A wheelchair too? I guess Lisha isn't the only one to not let a disability keep her from reaching a goal. Dustin?! What's he been doing all this time (besides training his Pokemon)? This sounds like a very interesting "tournament." I can hardly wait!

[Powarun]

Um, I am not sure about this, but isn't Zephos the wind god from Wind waker? It was a good chapter, I like how there is a little tournement and Lisha can prove to Brittany that she to can overcome a disablity. Sorry that you have to go to school though.

[Lady Vulpix]

Nice chapter! Very nice! :D
Oh, it will be great to read about the improvised tournament. Is there any chance that Mae could win? ;) Bah, nevermind. If Dustin must win a battle, so be it.

[The Prophet]

Ah... so Dustin DIDN'T spontaniously combust.... good.

More The Future Is Wild-style Pokés? YAY! I hope to see either the bird-fish or those cool sharks...

[psychic25]

Wow- I just finished reading the whole story (it took like three hours) and I've gotta say, you're an awesome writer. The style is great and the plot is amazing! I look forward to reading more of this.

[Rambunctious Jamirus]

Zelda - Heh, yeah. Brittany used to be the star of WHJSW before I lost it...keep reading!
Powarun - Yes it is. It's such a neat name...it was that or Cyclos but I like Zephos much better. Yeah, school sucks. Stupid homework...keep reading!
Gabi - *laughs* Okay then, I'll make sure he wins...J/K. Thanks!
The Prophet - *laughs again* All right, I'll see what I can do about the fish and sharks...keep reading for the new guys! Then again, I don't what time it is on or they kicked it off...
psychic - Welcome! Thanks for the nice review! Three hours, huh? Neat...

Okay, I've got a bad case of writer's block. The battles aren't going as I planned so I have a proposition. If you want, you may either PM or e-mail me (go to profile and click on the e-mail part under my name) and say which Pokemon you want Lisha or Ian to face with which Pokemon they'll use. I'll pick at least one from every PM or e-mail I get so don't worry. I'll handle the other battles.

The next post of mine here should be the next chapter.