Posted originally on the Archive_of_Our_Own at https://archiveofourown.org/
works/5142794.
  Rating:
      Explicit
  Archive Warning:
      Graphic_Depictions_Of_Violence, Underage
  Category:
      M/M
  Fandom:
      Pokemon, pokemon_heart_gold_and_soul_silver
  Relationship:
      original_male_character_and_silver
  Character:
      Original_Male_Character, Silver
  Additional Tags:
      supernatural_powers, OC_main_character, Sexual_Situations, Adult_Language
  Stats:
      Published: 2015-11-04 Chapters: 10/? Words: 59831
****** Murasaki Chronicles ******
by Silveriolu16
Summary
     Based off Hgss. Murasaki is about to start his pokemon journey
     through the Johto region. What pokemon will he catch and who will he
     meet alon the way?
***** prologue *****
* * * Prologue to Johto * * *
 
There are many regions in the world of pokemon. Some are more infamous than
others however. For instance, Kanto, where the great Red defeated Team Rocket.
Johto also has its fame, but that mostly lies with its champion: the Dragon
Master Lance.
Seven regions have more power than the others Kanto; Johto; Hoenn; SINNOH;
Unova; Kalos; Orre. Each is unique in their own way, having their own culture,
styles, and even pokemon. Yes, there are pokemon only found in specific
regions, but those lines have been blurring of late. As people travel between
the regions, they expose region-specific pokemon to environments they were
never in before. This creates chaos, communities of pokemon not native to
regions like Johto and Kanto (to name an example).
With all this going on, it is sometimes hard to remember that each region has
its own problems. Kanto thrust out the likes of Team Rocket (well let's face
it, Red did that pretty much all by himself) and they are allied with Johto.
All of the major regions are allied with one other region — except Orre. No one
knows what to think of that place; deserts and lawlessness rampant. It is
almost as if that's the culture there, like it's ok because it's isolated.
We will focus on only one region for now: Johto. A boy will be going on his
pokemon journey soon ...
 
Murasaki age 16 —
 
"I am going dad, whatever you say won't stop me." he forced himself to say as
calmly as he could, his fists balled up so tightly it was a wonder he hadn't
cut his palms with his finger nails.
"Fine. It looks like you do have some of Jessika in you after all."
* What the fuck? *
"What does mom havta do with this?" he barely kept from hissing, the words
coming out clipped rather than irate like he'd planned.
"Everything. She's why you rebel against my wishes."
"You can't possibly think I want to stay in this small town and run the
business from here! I hate it here. Everyone knows what everyone's doing — I
can't say something without every kid and his mother knowing about it."
He bit his lip, trying to keep from lashing out any further. That would get him
nowhere. Talking to his dad was like trying to convince a wall it was an Onyx
when it obviously wasn't.
* Why can't he just leave me alone? All I wanna do is travel, is that such a
crime? *
He glared in the direction of the man across from him, hoping that would get
the point across. The stuffy person across the table looked nothing like him he
knew. Straight and aristocratic features seemed to make up the man's entire
body, blue eyes and neat blonde hair finishing off the polished appearance.
Though he could not see him, he knew from what Momo told him.
* Must have got my looks from mom ... *
He grit his teeth, violently pushing the urge to ask about the woman down.
* He'll think I'm weak if I do that. As is he will probably try and stop me
tomorrow. *
He ran a hand through his two-toned hair and sighed, leaning against the hard
dark wood of the table and rolling his eyes at the infuriating 'gentlemen.'
"I'm leaving whether you like it or not dad. I dare you to try and stop me."
And with that he left the living room, the door slamming behind him as he took
the stairs to his room.
— — —
A few hours later he closed the book he'd been reading (one Momo had sent him)
and blinked several times. Pressing a button on his talking watch revealed that
he'd been reading most of the evening, 22:00 chiming out in the device's oh-so-
cheerful voice.
* Dad really needs to get a new hobby, what'll he do when I'm gone? *
This thought brought a snort out of the boy.
* Why am I even thinking about him now? After tomorrow I'm never coming back to
this house again. *
He'd decided that after some contemplation. Not coming back would serve the old
man right.
— — —
The door creaked slightly as he listened into the darkness of the yard. When
nothing out of the ordinary blared at him (likely making him wince at the very
least) he crept out of the house. The porch was his favorite place to sit when
he wasn't in his room, dad never came out here. He said it reminded him too
much of that 'horrid woman.' Of course, he meant mom, all the problems the old
man had seemed to stem from the woman he'd married and then been abandoned by.
Or at least, Murasaki'd been abandoned by her.
Instead of dwelling on the dismal, he decided to do a little exploring. From
experience he knew the yard wasn't tiny, but also not so huge he'd get lost
within seconds. A small smile slid onto his face as he quietly walked through
the garden dad insisted on keeping. He kept out of the flower beds, bending
down to sniff a plant here and there. All seemed well until a loud (a cacophony
to his enhanced hearing) jingling sound rang out.
* What? *
He listened for a moment, the sound coming again.
He covered his ears with a wince.
* Whatever that is it's way too fuckin' loud for this time of night. *
He needed no time to figure out the course of action he'd take; just moved
toward the noise. The idea of getting hurt did not worry him, all he wanted was
to silence the horrible racket.
* There'll be time for caution when I'm old and can't walk anymore ... *
The sound faded as he got closer, the ringing and jangling becoming a low roar
instead of the thunder it had been.
* This is your fault dad. If you'd gotten me out before they changed me ... *
There was nothing he could do about the past, so now wasn't the time to think
about it. He stopped when the noise did, wondering what was wrong. Just as he
bent down to feel the ground, thinking there was something blocking the sound,
it came again.
* Ugh ... *
His fingers brushed against something cold and solid.
* Why's there a piece of metal out here? *
Further examination brought more confusing information.
* A set of keys? Did I leave mine out here again? *
He picked up the keys and held them against his chest. If they were his he
didn't look forward to losing them again.
— — —
Ten minutes later he'd done all he could to identify the set of keys. They were
so far from what his own looked like that he hoped no one else had lost them.
He was about to put them in a box when the jangling started once more.
* Give it a rest will ya! *
The only thing that made it stop was when he held the keys. Laying the metal
objects flat against his palm was the only thing he could think to do at the
moment.
* They must belong to someone ... *
(Can you help me?)
He almost dropped the things in surprise when he heard that.
* I'm not a telepath. How can I hear a voice in my head? *
At first he thought he was crazy, but then the voice spoke a second time.
(If you could find some food for me I would ... like that.)
The words seemed to be coming from his palm.
* No fuckin' way ... *
"You're a talking set of keys. Why do you need to eat?"
Even as he said that he could feel something strange about the metal he was
holding. As he concentrated images and feelings flooded his mind. He groaned
softly and nearly fell as the thoughts and feelings overwhelmed his mind.
Digging his nails into his wrists helped a little, even though it wasn't
exactly a healthy pastime.
He blinked furiously and tried to focus on the problem at hand.
"Wait, you're a pokemon aren't you? I've never heard of a pokemon that's a
bunch of keys before."
(I am one key actually. The idiot-men who were holding me captive gave me keys
to keep me happy.)
"Why?" he asked before he could stop himself.
(They thought, that as a Klefki, the keys would keep me from leaving. The idea
of getting more ... they thought it would keep me from trying to run.)
* Never heard of that pokemon before ... *
"So you were being held captive, do you know where?"
(No. I am surprised you aren't ... how do humans say it ... ahhh yes! Freaking
out.)
"I'm already a psychic. Who knows what those fuckers did to me ..."
(So this is normal for you?)
"More or less,"
— — —
Feeding the Klefki took some work. He had to 'borrow' his dad's Ivysaur in
order to find the berries the key-ring pokemon asked for. Thankfully the grass
type filled the bag he'd given it to the brim before coming back. After the
hungry pokemon had eaten its fill (he Murasaki had to remind himself) sleep was
in order for both pokemon.
the last thing he did before going to bed himself was finish packing for the
next day. He put a few of the special berries in his pack, but mostly they were
too big to fit. He was also carrying a special type of poke ball Momo mailed
him as well. She said it was called a Dusk ball, something that should be
useful on his journey. She'd sent three and he was taking them all. He had
clothing, some money he'd saved up, and a few water bottles packed already.
Along with the already-mentioned stuff he also had a notebook and writing
utensils.
He needed them to feel sane sometimes. Writing down or drawing the impressions
he got from people, objects, and the areas he went to was often the only way to
purge them from his mind. If he let them stay, he'd lose track of reality;
become a zombie in his own body. So he drew and wrote, a feat for someone with
his particular ... traits.
* Huh, I can't blame this on dad for once. Is hell freezing over? *
He rubbed the bridge of his nose tiredly as he tied the travel bag closed. He'd
be out of here tomorrow; just had to get a starter and license and he'd be
free. One could legally become a trainer at ten, but he'd chosen to stay home
and study. Maybe study wasn't the right word. He wasn't a bodybuilder, but
sports was a big part of his life. He used to push himself so hard he'd pass
out from the exertion when he was younger.
* Thank Arceus I don't do that anymore ... * were his last thoughts as he lay
Klefki on the bed next to him and fell asleep.
 
Silver age 17 —
 
Escaping from the base was almost too easy. Kimi was the distraction that
allowed me to leave unnoticed. She wasn't actually interested in dating any of
the executives (especially not her boss Proton) but she made a convincing vixen
when she wanted to. To a 'normal' person, her methods might be questionable,
but I wasn't going to complain when she was helping me.
— — —
I left the bike I'd taken from the base behind some bushes at the edge of
Cherrygrove. No one would find it there, it wasn't spectacular anyway, so why
would someone want to steal it? I took what I could get, making a big deal of
low-quality equipment wouldn't do me any good now that I'd left. I could
survive on shit like that, I'd done it before.
When father thought I was just an urchin coming to steal his money he refused
to even let me inside the office he occupied most of the day. My mom ... let's
just say they weren't married and leave it at that. The situation was way too
complicated and I really didn't feel like remembering what it'd been like
before.
Team R was all I had as family up until now, but I didn't like where things
started going after a while. Father was making some (what I thought) shady
deals, and I wanted no part of that. If he wanted to get himself killed working
with the wrong sort of people, he could, but I wasn't going to be in on it.
That's why I planned the escape in the first place ... And I was fortunate
enough to make friends with the newest operative who just so happened to know
how to get her way despite being so young ... or maybe because of it.
I pulled out my phone and stared at it. The red and black casing cracked a
little as I held it, feeling the strain of my mind's turmoil.
* I just turned my back on everything I've been taught. Sure I wanted to for a
few years now, but now that it's happened ... everything's so much more real
now ... *
I crushed the phone in my hands. It wasn't difficult. Despite how expensive it
was, the material was flimsy as hell.
The next thing I did was go to a store. There wasn't a huge selection in
Cherrygrove, but I managed to find clothing that fit me well enough. I also
picked up something else that would help as well. There was nothing I could do
about my hair — the color was so vibrant dye couldn't cover it up with dyes —
but I could do something about my eyes.
— — —
I growled under my breath as I finally managed to pop the remaining contact
into place. I blinked as immediately my eyes became wet; the material of the
'false' eye irritating my real one. Ok, so contacts weren't really false eyes,
but for me these would be. As I looked in the mirror (I'd rented a room at the
Pokemon Center earlier) a completely different guy from the one I was used to
stared back at me. Again, nothing could be done for my hair, but I didn't look
like myself otherwise.
I'd always liked wearing red, but now a pair of dark blue jeans and a light
blue muscle shirt were my outfit. A dark blue leather jacket finished off the
look along with a pair of boots that were heavier than I was used to. The point
was that I hated this color — the blue made me think too much of things I'd
rather not — but it was the perfect disguise. Who would ever guess a guy who
practically lives and breathes red and black would put this on? And my eyes,
that was even better.
My silver eyes (what I suspected prompted my mom to name me after the color)
were now a sea green. If the color didn't feel so wrong I'd probably think of
wearing these all the time. It looked ok, but blue (or green for that matter)
just didn't feel right to me. Call me crazy if you want, but I try to stick to
my instincts. And (unfortunately or fortunately for the forseeable future even
if I didn't like it) this combination of color was just what I needed to blend
in.
I bit my lip and then decided to tie my hair back with the leather strip I'd
found and bought earlier as well. It wasn't perfect (never would be with this
hair) but would have to do until I could think of a way to hide better. Yeah,
the great Silver Rocketo hiding, so funny. I wanted nothing to do with Team R,
and hiding was the best way to avoid them. Actually becoming a trainer was even
better, which was what I was going to do next: get a pokemon and start on the
gym challenge.
 
Murasaki, next morning, early —
 
What woke me up the next morning wasn't the metal pokemon pressed against my
face, or the alarm I'd set for 7:00. A shrill ringing was what woke me from the
somewhat peaceful slumber I'd been trying to enjoy. A press of the watch button
told me it was 5:30.
* What the fuck does someone want this early? *
Picking up the house phone felt like it took way more effort than it should,
but I finally managed, growling softly into the receiver.
"What?"
"Is that how you greet your favorite sister 'lil bro?"
I groaned, tempted to hang up.
* She wouldn't call this early if there wasn't a good reason ... *
"What is it sis? And how can you be my fav'rite if you're my o'ly si'ter?"
"Whoa rough night? You never sound this bad."
I chuckled humorlessly. "You woke me up. I was trying to enjoy the few more
hours I have before dad yells at me again."
"That bad huh? He still tryin' ta keep you at home?"
"Mo' you're lucky. You left with mom ... he won't let me out of his sight. Says
I havta run t'e 'amily busi'nes."
"Shit bro I woulda taken ya with me if I'd known it'd be this bad ..."
I growled louder this time, enough that I knew she'd hear.
"Look, he can't control me forever sis. I'm more than old enough to become a
trainer."
"I know but ... that doesn't keep me from worryin'"
"I know. Did you have a reason for callin' me at the 'as-crac' of dawn?"
"Yeah actually ..."
I waited, hoping she'd get to the point quick. Normally I was so happy to hear
her voice I'd just let her talk on and on, but I was so tired and done with
things around here my patience was wearing thin.
"Spit it out sis." I said after a couple minutes of silence.
"You're not mad at me are you?"
"No, I'm mad at dad, like usual."
"Oh ok. What I called for ... right! I wanted to wish you luck on your journey
brother!"
I winced from the noise, but couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. That
was what I liked about her the most, her ability to lighten the mood no matter
how bad things got.
"Thanks sis."
"Mura I thought you'd be happier ... you're finally leaving that pompous miser
behind ..."
"I would be ... except for the 'talk' last night."
She gasped and then growled loudly into the phone, sounding a lot like me.
"That fuckin'"
"He didn't ban me from going ... he just ... mentioned mom." The last part was
almost whispered.
You'd think after all the years of mom's neglecting to care about me I'd be
over it by now. She paid attention to Momo, so why not me?
"... hey! Don't let him get to you. You know he's just doing this to reel you
in again ... like the fuckin' last time."
I nodded, though she couldn't see it. "Yeah."
"Everything'll turn out sunny Mura just you wait."
"I hope you're right."
"So, you got plans for after you get your first pokemon?"
I giggled involuntarily as Klefki somehow managed to land on my arm.
* He's a fuckin' key, how can he move like that? *
"'bro you ok?"
"Yeah, just surprised is all."
"By what?"
So I told her how I'd encountered the set of keys that turned out to be a
pokemon.
"Keys ... hmmm ... I've never heard of that before."
I laughed a little. "Neither had I till last night."
"And what did he call himself?"
Even though it probably sounded nuts, I told her everything. She wasn't a
psychic, but knew how stuff worked for us since she lived with me up until a
few years ago.
"Klefki." I finally said, hoping that would help her identify my new friend.
(I won't be leaving. I want to come with you.)
"Uhhh ..." I said, not sure how to take that.
"What 'bro? Sorry, was checking the database I set up for pokemon last year."
"Anything?"
"Nada. Does he know where he's from?"
(I believe the region was called Kalos, but I haven't lived there since 'they'
took me.)
"He tells me Kalos is where he thinks he's from. Who's they?"
(I told you, I don't know ...)
— — —
Dad handed me a pokegear as I made my way through the living room on the way
out of the house. He didn't say anything, but I knew he was just itching to.
There was a note attached to the device, but I'd read that later, when I was
far far away from this place. Contrary to what I'd said, the people of New bark
weren't that bad. Almost anyone could be described as 'tolerable' when compared
to dad. I slipped the paper into my pocket and clipped the pokegear to my belt
just as Klefki reminded me he was still there. It wasn't that I didn't feel the
metal against my palm where he was currently resting (being psychometric I felt
and understood a lot more than the average person) but he'd been so quiet I'd
forgotten he was there.
"What?" I asked softly, not wanting the rumor mill to go at me this morning.
There was a small network of girls who just looked for gossip, I was sure of
it. I couldn't take a shit without them knowing was how it felt sometimes.
Unfortunately for them, none of them interested me. I wanted hard muscle under
my fingertips; a body and mind that could match up to mine ...
More jingling brought me back to the task at hand.
"Yeah?" I asked, almost growling now.
(Can I ride in your pocket for now?)
"Sure. You know, if you're gonna stay I could buy a chain and wear you around
my neck ..."
* Wow that even sounded stupid in my head before I said it ... *
(Sounds good, but you have nothing like that now?)
"I'll havta pick something up in the next town. This place's so small we havta
go there to buy most shit anyway ..."
 
Silver, watching from a building near the lab —
 
I turned sharply as a figure approached my hiding place. I'd been watching the
lab for a chance to sneak in and grab a starter pokemon. I had Sneasel, but
being a trainer from Johto meant I needed a starter from here. The figure
slowly solidified into a person — a boy — as I watched.
He had the strangest hair I'd ever seen. It was white (albino white I suspected
due to the color of his eyes) with streaks of dark purple in it. His eyes were
a few shades lighter, but still purple.
* Yeah, I was definitely right about that ... *
What was also odd was his skin. It wasn't the deathly pale I expected of
someone who looked albino, but a nice tan.
* Ok, are all people from this town weird-looking? I saw a girl with pink hair
carrying a flower-pokemon earlier and thought that was weird? *
Though his features were odd, they seemed to suit him. He was wearing a black
outfit with gold bordering. Let me put it this way: the sleeves and neckline of
his shirt were gold, the rest black. So much black ... His pants were pure-
black, no hint of any other color could be found there.
* Wonder if he's into that goth stuff I've heard is so popular in Sinnoh? *
 
Murasaki, at the lab —
 
I'd decided on the fire-type before I even tried out the other two. The first
ball I threw produced a happy squeak from a pokemon that ran over and rubbed up
against my legs.
"Hey buddy," I said as I kneeled down to lightly scratch at the creature's ears
after taking a few seconds to find them.
The pokemon leaned into me and I felt heat bloom near my hands.
* Heat patches right ... you've studied this one Mura ... *
I smiled and picked up the little flaming ball of joy.
"Think I'll call you Ash."
— — —
It didn't take long to get me registered and ready to start on my journey. I
was wondering about getting a pokedex, since Momo got one when she started her
journey. I would have to wait and see it seemed.
 
"Can you go see what Mr. Pokemon wants for me? I'd start you on your journey
now, but he's close and I can't leave the lab."
* You have an assistant standing right there, why not ask him? And yes, I do
know he's there even though he's being quiet. *
I could sort of 'feel' the man there.
"I guess so. I'm sure Ash and Klefki would be happy to do some training on the
way."
"Try and be back before it gets dark." the professor said.
* Easy for you ta say, you're stayin' here. *
I nodded in the direction of the professor.
"Ok,"
Before I could leave the building the assistant gave me five Potions.
***** chapter 1 *****
* * * chapter I * * *
- Cherrygrove, Mr. Pokemon, and a Rival -
 
Murasaki, outside lab (New bark) —
 
As I exited the lab a girl called out to me.
"Hiya 'saki!"
* No not her ... *
I forced a breath, trying to keep the yell that threatened to escape me in
check.
"What do you want Lyra?" I finally asked, doing my best to sound civil.
There wasn't a point in starting an argument with this girl, she never seemed
to notice anything was amiss.
"Hey thought you hated that nickname?" the girl said as she stopped in front of
me. I took a few steps back, not wanting to be so close to her overly happy
voice.
"I do."
"Then why did you just stand there?"
* Are we really going to do this today? *
"Lyra what did you want?" I asked, my voice exasperated now.
She didn't miss a beat. "I have a gift for you!"
I covered my ears, the high-pitched sound of her voice was like nails scraping
against a chalkboard for me.
"Ok," I said, hoping she'd give it to me and leave.
Lyra was from dad's company — or rather a product Of it's so-called progress. A
telepath herself, she could plant thoughts into people's heads. It didn't work
so well on me thankfully, something about there being too much 'stuff' to
bypass.
"... were you listening to me? I want to come with you on your journey."
* Oh fuck no ... *
I tried to adopt a smile, but it probably came out strained.
"You'll have a lot more fun on your own. You can go at a pace you like that
way."
My arguments were valid, but of course this was Lyra.
"But ... pleaseeee?"
"No." I said firmly, Cyndaquil nuzzling my arm lightly as I spoke.
"At least take my gift then ... please 'saki,"
"D. not. call. me. that." I growled out. Would she ever fuckin' leave?
"S-sorry. Here,"
A box was placed in my left hand and I sighed inwardly.
* Maybe she'll finally leave ... *
"Well aren't you going to open it?"
* Oh hell ... *
I shrugged, untying the bow on top and opening the lid. Inside were some items.
"There's a Bright powder, a Choice band, a Metal coat, tm 06 Toxic, and tm 27
Return in there." the girl informed me.
I blinked, not sure I'd heard her right. After doing my own examination I
figured she'd been telling the truth.
"Lyra I can't take these ... Do you have any idea how much they're worth?"
"I know! They were in my mom's storage and she said I could have them. I won't
use them though so you take them."
A chirpy "marill!" was heard nearby.
"Oh Marill there you are! I was waiting for you to come back."
* Hmmm wondered where that chattery mouse was ... *
"I'll see you later right Murasaki?"
"Yeah," I said as I began making my way toward the grass. I knew because there
were a lot of feelings and thoughts coming from a specific direction, something
I'd felt before and recognized.
— — —
Prof. Elm gave me the 'talk' about battling and how dangerous grass was before
he let me go on his little quest. He also told me his pokegear number so I had
it for later. After entering the digits in the pokegear I walked into the
grass.
Cyndaquil decided to train first, jumping onto the ground and walking beside
me. Through battling I discovered he knew two moves most Cyndaquil didn't: Howl
and Covet. From my studies I knew these were egg moves, moves gotten through
breeding with other pokemon of the same egg group. I was glad for the extras,
he only knew Tackle and Leer, neither of which was very useful. Once he was
level 10 Klefki took his turn.
By this point we were halfway between Route 29 and Cherrygrove city. I was a
little worried about catching pokemon later with both my current ones training,
but Klefki told me he'd hold back and assured me Ash would do the same. I had
to take the key-ring's word for it, but the feelings I got from him didn't seem
off or deceitful in any way.
(I am almost ready to leave here.)
"Ok that's good. You're level 10 right?"
(Level 8 actually, but soon I will be ten.)
"Good,"
— — —
In Cherrygrove a man came up to me, putting a hand on my shoulder. I shivered
at the images that flooded my brain.
* I did not wanna know just how much you enjoy fish old man ... *
He showed me around the city, pointing out locations that I might be interested
in like the Pokemon center and Pokemart. After the tour he gave me some Running
shoes, which I was grateful for. I'd forgotten mine at home in all the
excitement of last night and earlier this morning.
I'd found another Potion on Route 29 so I didn't need to go to the Pokemart
just yet. I did visit the 'center though, both my pokemon were tired out. After
healing them I walked toward the next patch of grass — beyond the city. The old
man came up to me and gave me a Map card, which I'd be using shortly.
After looking up the way to the end of the next route (the most likely location
for Mr. pokemon's house) I made my way into the grass.
— — —
Klefki and Cyndaquil leveled some more in the grass on Route 30. There were a
lot of items here as well. I found a Potion not too far in, got an Apricorn box
from a man in a house, shook a tree and grabbed the Green apricorn that fell
onto the ground, found an Antidote just lying around, and acquired a Pink
apricorn before reaching Mr. Pokemon's house. Both my pokemon were level 13 at
this point.
— — -
I took a deep breath and knocked on the man's door.
"Elm sent you I presume?"
I nodded. "Come in come in!" the man (presumably Mr. pokemon) said as I went
in.
He gave me what he'd e-mailed the professor about. Apparently he'd come across
a pokemon egg and wanted Elm to look at it for him. I put the egg in my box and
was about to leave when someone called out to me.
"Don't leave yet young man,"
I stopped and turned around.
(Old, very old, but seems to be trustworthy.)
I decided not to answer my key-friend and shrugged.
"What do you want with me?"
"I was wondering if you could do something for me."
* Why does everyone assume that I'm nice enough to run errands for them all the
time? *
"What is it?"
"I just finished a new model of the Pokedex I created some years back. Will you
test it for me?"
The first thing I'd learned from Momo about being a trainer was that if you
could get a Pokedex take it. They were very useful, and at this point the extra
information could only help.
I nodded. "Sure."
A square object was shoved into my hand and I put it in my pocket. It was
likely made for people who could see, so I'd be taking it apart later to add my
software and see if I could get it running smoother. I noticed that there was a
piece of paper attached to the Pokedex as I left, hearing the paper crinkle in
my pocket. After holding it for a moment I was able to discern what was written
there: the man's number, Prof. Oak.
I had no idea how the 'reading' thing worked. It went along with my powers
though, so I wasn't going to complain. It definitely made things easier. All I
had to do was touch something with words on it and I'd get impressions of the
people who'd touched it. Somewhere along the line of exchanging hands whatever
it was had been read by someone, so I got the words shoved into my head, or in
this case numbers.
An incessant ringing brought me from my thoughts. I growled under my breath and
plucked the ringing object (my Pokegear) from my belt. Pressing the 'talk'
button allowed the person calling to speak.
"What?" I asked.
"There has been an incident at the lab. I need you back here right away!"
"Tell me about it."
"Someone stole the Totodile. You have to come quick ..."
"Fine, I'll be there as soon as I can. Might be a while, I just got the item
from Mr. Pokemon."
I didn't give the frantic man time to answer, just ended the call.
* I am no hero, why does he think I can help? Lyra is a trainer too, why can't
he bug her with this? *
I sighed, raking a hand through my hair and running toward Cherrygrove.
— — —
A quick healing later and I was nearly to Route 29 again. Before I knew what
was happening something — or someone? - knocked me over.
I groaned, taking stock of my body to make sure I wasn't injured before
standing.
"What the fuck?" was all I could think to say.
"Hey, you were the one standing in the way ..." a male voice said.
* He's not from New bark that's for sure. I'd recognize his voice if he was. *
After a few minutes of silence the guy spoke again.
"Why don't we settle this with a battle."
* Who said it was an argument? *
I shrugged, grabbing Cyndaquil's poke ball from my belt.
"Go!" the boy cried as he let out his pokemon. It exclaimed "totodile!"
* * * *
"Cyndaquil use Howl."
The piercing sound was way too loud for comfort, but at least it raised his
attack power.
"Use Ember."
"Use Leer." was the boy's command to his pokemon.
* Seriously? *
There was no need to order another attack, the thud proclaimed there'd been a
solid hit.
(The Totodile is almost down for the count.)
"Good, now use Quick attack."
I heard air whoosh by as Ash picked up speed, finally crashing hard into the
other pokemon.
(One down.)
* * * *
"You finished?" I asked, recalling Cyndaquil.
"No. I still have one more."
"Let's go then."
"Go Sneasel!"
"You're up Klefki."
* * * *
"Use Fairy wind."
"Are you actually going to attack me with a set of keys?" the boy asked
incredulously. Instead of answering I focused on the sounds Klefki's attack
made. It didn't take long for the Sneasel to faint. His trainer was so
astonished by the fact I was indeed fighting him with keys, that his responses
were slow and sloppy.
* * * *
"What the hell? What kind of pokemon is that?"
"A steel-type." I said smugly, kneeling down to pick up Klefki.
"But ... I've never seen one before. Where did you get it?"
"He found me actually."
"Shouldn't you be running or something?" I asked, raising an eyebrow in his
direction.
"Why?"
"I was asked to find the Totodile that's missing from the lab in New bark. I'm
pretty sure that's it."
He spluttered for a moment, no words coming out just strange noises that
reminded me of choking.
* I was bluffing, but he doesn't need to know that ... *
"You wouldn't tell anyone would you?"
"That depends, what will you do with it?"
"Train him just like any other trainer would."
"If you prove that to me I won't tell them about you. I won't even give them
your name."
"You don't know my name."
"But I could get it couldn't I? Take it or leave it man."
"You're ... actually serious about this aren't you?" he asked in disbelief.
"Wouldn't have said it if I wasn't."
"You're going for the gyms right?"
"Yeah," I replied, wondering what that had to do with anything.
"I'll see you around then."
"Hey wait," I said before he could leave.
"Yeah?"
"Maybe next time we can use names."
"Sure," he said, and I could hear the smile in his voice as he walked off, his
footsteps loud and clear in my ears.
As they faded I realized my heart was beating faster than usual.
* Oh come on, I can't be attracted to this guy. I don't even know his name ...
*
— — —
At the lab I was introduced to a police officer.
"I'm not being arrested am I?" I asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Not yet, but you are a prime suspect in the kidnapping."
"He didn't do it!" a familiar voice said as a small hand was placed on my
shoulder.
* Lyra she might just listen to you ... *
The girl was annoying (well I thought so anyway) but she was good at getting
people to listen to her side of things when she wanted them to.
After some more talking (I didn't really pay attention to what was being said)
the police officer addressed me again.
"So you don't know anything?"
"I ran into someone on the way here, but since I don't know what I'm supposed
to be lookin' for no."
"That person could have been the kidnapper."
"Maybe, maybe not. What did you expect me to do? Go up and say: Did you steal
the Totodile from the lab? I'm sure that would have gone over well."
"'saki's right, that's just a great way to scare people away." Lyra said.
"Ok, ok, so you don't know anything. Did the guy you ran into give you a name?"
"No." I said, inwardly smirking. If she wanted to think it was a guy fine, but
I hadn't given enough details for her to find the boy I'd battled earlier.
* I'll keep my promise, now you keep yours. *
The officer stayed for a little while longer. I counted my items and money as I
waited for her to leave. I had seven Potions, an Antidote, the Dusk balls Momo
gave me, a few of the berries Klefki liked, my notebook and writing — drawing
utensils, and 500 poke dollars from the fight with the Totodile-snatcher. As
they talked I got a feel for the layout of the Pokedex Oak gave me, deciding to
mess with it at the Pokemon center in Cherrygrove later. I knew what I was
doing when it came to modifying and taking apart electronics, but that kind of
stuff took time. I wanted to catch some pokemon before renting a room at least.
When Elm finally told me he'd get back to me about the egg later (it felt like
hours but was probably only ten minutes or so) I was so ready to leave. Lyra
had gone off somewhere, I hadn't heard her annoying voice in a while. Momo
called as I was about to run in the grass.
"What's up?" I asked as I pressed the right button, taking the call.
"I'm the one who should be askin' ya that." came her happy voice.
* Thank Arceus I still have you sis ... *
"Not much. I picked up an egg for Prof. Elm, trained with my pokemon, battled a
boy who ran into me, and just got finished being interrogated about a crime I
didn't commit."
She laughed. "You never do things the easy way do you 'bro?"
"Actually I try not to get into trouble, but it sticks to me like fuckin' glue
anyway."
"There was a reason I called actually." she said, getting straight to the
point.
* She must be busy training, she's never this straightforward. *
"Yeah?"
"I was wondering if you'd like me to save some of your money. I can set up an
account and buy you useful items here in Hoenn."
"You'd spend it only on useful things I might need?"
"Yeah of course bro! Don't insult me."
"Sorry it's just ... livin' with dad for so long has made me wary about the
money I manage to earn myself."
She snorted. "That man should never have had kids."
* Easy for you ta say, he isn't your dad. *
Mom had married before 'mr. jeigar' and that was where Momo came from. Of
course Mr. Jeigar was my dad, which made us half-siblings. That never took away
from the fact that we were all the other really had. Mom paid attention to
Momo, but her job was demanding and we'd had to fend for ourselves more than
once. Momo practically raised me by herself, but we didn't have that awkward
mom-sister problem that other kids had.
"... earth to Mura!"
"Sorry sis,"
"It's alright. So is that a yes or a no on the saving?"
"Yes. You'll be takin' what, half of what I get from battling?"
"That was the plan."
"Sounds good,"
A short time later I hung up feeling much better. Thankfully Momo was the light
to my darkness.
* Well she is for now at least. *
Lyra tapped me on the shoulder before I could cross into the grass. She
insisted I 'watch' as she caught a pokemon. As annoying as that was she at
least gave me 5 poke balls to use afterward.
"Thanks," I said as she left.
— — —
The only pokemon I caught on Route 29 was a Sentret. There were Pidgey too, but
I didn't feel like catching one. I ended up calling her Ferret.
* Three huh? I wonder how many I'll catch today? *
— — —
On Route 46 (or the partial Route 46 as the map informed me) I found several
Geodude and Spearow. I caught one of each, naming the flying-type Sora (a male)
and forgoing a nickname for the rock-type (a female).
After those captures I went back to Cherrygrove. Sentret was put into the pc
and I purchased more poke balls (just in case) before heading out to Route 30.
I found several pokemon there, catching them quickly.
Ledyba (who I named Vallan) was the first. I caught a female Caterpie next,
naming her Streak due to a red streak along her back. A female Weedle who I
called Honey came next, and I finished off the day by snagging a Pidgey as
well.
***** chapter 2 *****
* * * chapter II * * *
- Exploring and Flying vs. Team Purple -
 
Murasaki, at Pokemon center (Cherrygrove) —
 
In the Pokemon center I sat on the bed in the room I'd rented, a mess of wires
and machine parts scattered around me. Cyndaquil and Klefki were both out of
their balls. Occasionally a furry nose poked my arm, but otherwise the pokemon
left me alone. I was pretty sure Klefki was asleep, the key-pokemon hadn't
spoken in over an hour. Eventually Cyndaquil stopped nosing my arm and curled
up in my lap. I grinned slightly, adjusting the wires I was working with to
accomadate him.
Once I finished I carefully fitted various wires and small parts back together.
The Pokedex didn't look any different from the outside, but it held many new
features. I'd even tweaked the batteries so they lasted longer.
* Well let's see if this thing works. *
After a minute of fumbling I finally got the thing to turn on. I'd forgotten
how I re-wired the 'on' switch, so it wasn't as easy as it would normally be.
The controls were now different, modified to fit what I knew worked, but anyone
else would be even more confused than I was now.
"I am Dexter." a somewhat cheerful voice said after the machine powered up.
* Where did he come up with that? *
After scrolling through the menus for a while I came across some useful
information. Apparently some pokemon could only be encountered at a certain
time of day. There were even several that could only be found at night. I
smirked, happy to have something to do that didn't involve sitting on a bed for
many hours.
* Let's see what I can find. It's after 20:00 so the 'night' pokemon should be
out now. *
— — —
I was disappointed to find out Ratatta was one of the 'night' pokemon.
* Talk about fuckin' useless pokemon ... *
I managed to capture a Hoothoot thankfully. In its current form it was rather
weak, but after evolving it would become a flying-psychic type. I was looking
forward to that. I'd wanted a psychic type ever since Momo showed me her
Gardevoir.
* Maybe I can convince her to trade with me when I get better pokemon. *
I went back to the Pokemon center after catching the Hoothoot. I powered up the
pc, giving myself a minute to get acquainted psychically with the machine.
Unfortunately pc's weren't something I had a lot of experience with. I could
probably take them apart and put them back together, but that was about it.
(Need help?)
"Would be nice ..."
(What is the problem?)
"I can't figure this thing out."
(You mean you can't 'connect' with it?)
"Yeah,"
(Let me be your eyes then. I can tell you what you have selected and help you
get the team you want.)
"Thanks,"
Luckily for me no-one else was in the lobby, even the nurse was off somewhere.
* The last thing I need is to advertise my freakish-ness. *
Eventually I decided to keep Cyndaquil and Klefki, adding Geodude, Hoothoot,
and Spearow as well. I knew it might take a while, but I wanted to evolve some
of them. Cyndaquil would be easy, he just needed to grow one level, but the
Spearow and Hoothoot didn't evolve until level 22 or later. I wasn't too sure
about Geodude's evolution level, but probably wouldn't train her enough to find
out for a while. She was just there to help with the birds at this point.
After bringing the three new additions to level 10 I wandered back to the
Pokemon center. The nurse was back and healed them all for me, good thing too
since I was getting tired myself. After checking out the Pokegear dad gave me
to try and see what I could improve (not taking it apart just looking) I yawned
hugely and shucked off everything except my boxers. Cyndaquil snuggled against
my chest, something I allowed gratefully. I felt cold for some reason. Klefki
also climbed into bed with me, making himself comfortable on one edge of the
pillow.
— — —
Before continuing on Route 30 I went to the Pokemart and searched for anything
I could string Klefki onto that I could wear. After a rather frustrating half
hour a woman finally came up to me and asked if I was looking for jewelry. I
confirmed that and she directed me to another store in town, this one much
smaller. I grabbed a heavy silver chain (wouldn't want the links to break and
have Klefki fall off) and paid for it. Stringing the pokemon onto the chain and
slipping the whole thing over my head I set off to continue onward.
— — —
The rest of Route 30 was pretty boring. I kept coming across the same pokemon
from before, but what should I expect? I battled four trainers and was able to
find a Potion hidden inside a flower with the help of Cyndaquil and Klefki.
Geodude, Spearow, and Hoothoot reached level 13 as well. I hoped Ash would
evolve soon, I was proud of how he stood up to pokemon, even though I know he
just wanted to curl up in my arms.
The first wild pokemon battle on the next route (31) allowed Cyndaquil to
evolve. The only real differences I noticed were that he wanted to fight more
and that he was bigger. I smiled as I rubbed his back.
"You did so good Ash."
He gave a happy cry and leaned into me, almost singeing my jeans.
"Hey, watch it," my tone was light though. With the amount of black I wore a
little burnt fabric would only be a problem if he seared holes through it.
Bellsprout was the only new pokemon on the route. I caught one I intended to
keep, and ... well, accidentally caught another. A poke ball fell out of my
pack and the weed just jumped inside it.
* Maybe someone will trade for it. What am I supposed to do with a second one?
*
After exploring for a while, I came to a cave. The map called it Dark cave.
There was only one new pokemon there that might be worth catching, a normal-
type: Dunsparce. I entered the cave and Klefki started jangling madly.
"What is it?"
(I don't like it here. It's too dark.)
I groaned. "Don't tell me you're afraid of the dark ..."
(I just really hate it here. I'll be fine once we leave.)
"If you say so ..."
After finding a Potion it was time to leave the 'scary' cave.
Before going into Violet city there were a few more things for me to do. I
collected some items: Blk apricorn, a poke ball, and another Potion — putting
my total at 10 Potions. I also battled a bug keeper and registered his number
in the Pokegear. If anything he might battle me again. After all that was done
I got my first feel of Violet as I entered.
— — —
In the city I bumped into a boy who wanted a Bellsprout. He said he'd trade an
Onyx for it. I grabbed the extra Bellsprout from earlier and made the trade.
The Onyx wasn't spectacular, but I felt better about training it than Geodude.
The rock-snake was switched with Geodude, awaiting training in my party.
Ash ran off and came back with a poke ball in his mouth as I passed by a random
street. I chuckled slightly, thanking him and putting the item into my pack. I
walked to Route thirty-six, hoping to find more grass for training. What I did
find was a very fat man (Klefki's description not mine) who gave me an hm.
From my classes at the two trainer's schools I'd attended I learned about
those. They were moves you taught pokemon that could be used outside of battle
(under certain conditions) but could not be forgotten unlike tm's. I wasn't
sure what to do with Rock Smash, so just put it away for now.
— — —
On Route 32 (another grassy area I came to after going through one of the city
entrances) there were many pokemon I wanted to add to my growing team of
fighters. Hoppip, Wooper, Mareep, and Ekans were the new additions. After going
through the information the Pokedex had on them, I chose to train Mareep and
Wooper. That brought my current team to Ash (Quilava) Rocky (Onyx) Skip
(Wooper) Bolt (Mareep) Hoothoot and Klefki.
I made sure to level everyone up to lv 16 or 17 before returning to the Pokemon
center. It was nearing noon and I was getting hungry. The nurse pointed me to a
small eatery that also served pokemon and I paid for a nice meal. I left Rocky
at the 'center so she could eat. She was too big to fit into a building
unfortunately. After eating I checked the map of the city and decided to go to
Sprout tower. I could catch a Gastly there (only at night unfortunately) and
thought there'd be something else to do there as well.
— — —
I collected a Paralyze heal, an X accuracy, and a Potion while going through
the tower. Beating up the monks' pokemon wasn't too difficult. When I got to
the floor just below the top of the tower I could hear banging and crashing.
* What the hell? *
 
Silver, the night before (Violet city) —
 
It was almost six people. more. when I arrived at Violet city. I'd decided to
train and catch as many pokemon as I could on the way. Thankfully I had some
money saved up from the years I worked as part of Team R, which made this
easier.
* I don't think finances will ever be a problem for me. *
Whatever my complaints and reasons for leaving, that was one of the best parts
of working for them. The other was the commanding air and aptitude for strategy
I gained while observing the operatives (those that actually did their job well
that is).
The first thing I did when I arrived was heal my pokemon. The nurse smiled at
me and greeted me as I entered. I forced myself to speak to her. Engaging in
conversation with her was a good idea, she knew the city well. After a few
minutes of chatting she gave me the location of an electronics store.
— — —
After buying a Pokegear (one garaunteed to be untraceable) I started exploring
the city and surrounding areas. I found a few items and also gained the hm Rock
smash. Route 32 was the next place I went.
Lots of pokemon were there, but I only wanted a few. At this point my team
consisted of Slash, (my Sneasel) Totodile, Kakuna, and Spearow. I spent some
time evolving the bug and finally ran into the pokemon I wanted to catch.
Since I didn't have any grass pokemon yet Bellsprout was a nice addition. The
last pokemon I caught out there was Mareep, an electric type. Since it was the
only electric type I'd come across, I was eager to train it. Once everyone was
level 14 or 15 I entered Violet city to heal them. I also checked out Dark
cave, but found nothing useful there except a Potion.
— — —
It was almost 10 o'clock when I went into Sprout Tower. Gastly was the newest
addition to my team after fighting most of the monks. I say most because it was
late and I was too tired to continue. After grabbing the items lying around I
made my way back to the Pokemon center for some much needed sleep.
 
Silver, Sprout tower top floor (several minutes before Murasaki reaches the
floor below) —
 
Another monk stood before me.
* I hope this is the last one, I am really tired of battling Bellsprout. *
The man glanced at me before bowing.
"Shall we start the battle?" he asked.
I nodded.
* Yeah before my eyes fall off from all the green I've seen today. *
Though I'd finished the other monks off the night before wild Bellsprout kept
popping up to annoy me today. I'd managed to evolve Totodile at least with
their help.
* * * *
"Start things off Bellsprout."
"Go Sneasel!"
The clawed pokemon appeared and grinned at me before facing his opponent.
"Scratch,"
The ice type smirked and then headed off.
"Keep using Scratch."
"Vine whip." the monk ordered.
"Dodge and keep using Scratch."
Slash dodged most of the vines, but got hit by one or two. Thankfully they only
did damage and didn't tangle him up.
While dodging he managed to get close enough to land some hits of his own.
"Finish it with Faint attack!"
Slash sidled up to the grass type and smiled. The bell-headed pokemon seemed
confused and just as it took a step closer to him he struck, landing a solid
blow. The attack was a sucker punch to the thing's face, knocking it out almost
instantly.
* * * *
"That was surprising young man," the monk said as he withdrew his pokemon.
I shrugged, recalling Sneasel.
"Show them the power of grass Bellsprout!"
* Not another one ... *
"You're up Croconaw!"
* * * *
The water type appeared and set its sights on the grass pokemon. He was bigger,
but didn't really look much different than the previous evolution.
"Rage,"
He moved quick enough that the Bellsprout was caught off guard and was hit.
"Vine whip,"
I thought for a moment, coming up with a plan.
* It's a risk, but he is evolved now ... *
"Let it land some hits, then attack with Rage."
A series of furious blinks was the only response I got from my pokemon.
* If this works your attack will be stronger and that'll do more damage. *
"Why are you letting your pokemon be attacked?" the monk asked. I rolled my
eyes and watched.
I winced a little as Croconaw took damage from the Vine whip's strikes. The
monk hadn't called them off yet for some reason.
"Use Rage now,"
Croconaw nodded, holding its jaw, and charged toward the grass type. The hit
was still weak.
* Damn I forgot he needs to use that more than once in a row. *
The monk sighed. "Vine whip again."
"Stay where you are,"
The vines slammed into the water type, but he was still standing afterward.
"Rage,"
He charged again, this time doing a lot more damage.
"Rage again,"
This last attack knocked the Bellsprout out.
* * * *
"You surprised me with that last one. Here is my final pokemon!"
A small bird popped out of the ball and hopped a few times.
"Hmmm a Hoothoot ..."
I'd caught one myself, but hadn't tried to train it yet. I recalled Croconaw,
grabbing another poke ball from my belt.
"You'll finish this Mareep."
* * * *
"Growl."
"Tackle,"
Thankfully Mareep's attack went through first, there was no time for her to
dodge the other's attack.
"Get up and use your own Tackle!"
She bleated and rushed to comply.
I was satisfied to see her ram into the bird, sparks buzzing around her body as
she landed the blow. The flying type was pushed several feet back.
"Thunder shock!"
* That should finish it off, type advantage and all ... *
When the sparks connected the bird did not get up. Mareep walked over to me and
rubbed up against my legs. I felt my hands shake a little from the electrical
charge in her body as I rubbed her ears.
"You did great," I said as I returned her.
* * * *
Sneasel popped out of his ball and leaned against me. I glanced down at him,
checking for injuries, and sighed in relief at finding out they were minimal.
"You have earned this," the monk said as he handed me a flat disc. It was tm 70
Flash. I shrugged and put it into my pack before starting off toward the exit,
the ice type following behind me.
 
Murasaki, Sprout tower (Entering top floor room) —
 
I ran a hand through my hair and sighed.
* Maybe someone's battling up there ... *
I blinked several times when the noises stopped, getting ready to enter the
room. I heard voices and then the door swung open.
Suddenly something shoved me backward and I almost fell.
A hand clasped mine and pulled me to my feet before I could try and figure out
what happened.
"Sorry about that," the voice of the boy I'd battled yesterday said.
* So, you're here too ... *
"It's alright," I said, holding onto his hand for a moment longer before
dropping it and stepping aside for him to exit the room properly.
"I thought it would take you longer to get here," the boy said.
I shrugged. "I could have taken longer if I'd caught any more pokemon to
train."
"Hn,"
I thought for a moment, hoping he'd answer the question I had.
"You never gave me your name before ..."
He sighed. "Silver,"
I smiled slightly.
"My name's Murasaki."
He shuffled his feet a little.
"I'll see you later, I have to go."
I had the thought to convince him to stay, but by the time I reached out to
grab him he was gone.
* What was that about? *
Battling the monk was interesting. It was the first time I'd fought a trainer
with more than two pokemon who was somewhat of a challenge. Hoothoot took down
the first Bellsprout, using Peck then putting it to sleep with Hypnosis.
Another Peck finished it off. The second one was taken down by Ash, his Ember
knocking it out in one hit.
The last pokemon (a level 10 Hoothoot) was a bit more of a challenge. I was
glad that Hypnosis had a lower accuracy rate than most moves when facing that
bird. Wooper's Water gun and Mud shot together were what it took to make it
faint. The monk gave me tm 70 Flash and wished me luck at the gym. I earned
1200 poke dollars for defeating him.
— — —
After healing my pokemon I found myself in front of the gym. Defeating the two
trainers didn't take long. One more trip to the 'center to make sure everyone
was healed and I was back inside the gym, ready to battle the leader.
"Murasaki from New bark versus Leader Falkner, begin!" the referee said.
I winced at the noise.
"I hope you know I don't go easy on people just because this is the first gym,"
Falkner said.
I smirked. "I hope you don't."
"Go! Pidgey!"
"Wooper this is your fight," I said as I released Skip from his ball.
He gave a happy cry.
* * * *
"Sand-attack!"
"Mud shot,"
Wooper's attack hit first, I heard a splat before my ears picked up the sound
of dust being whirled around.
"Dodge,"
(He barely dodged that. These birds are fast ...)
I didn't answer the key pokemon.
"Water gun,"
"Dodge that," Falkner instructed his pokemon.
"Keep using Water gun,"
Wooper knew what I meant. Instead of using the attack one more time, this
command meant to use a barrage of them. Hopefully they would overwhelm the
bird.
Thankfully for us it worked. After a few minutes I heard water hitting
something solid and then a very loud thud. I assumed the Pidgey tried to get up
because it gave a pained cry of "pid ... gey ..."
"Mud shot,"
After the attack all was silent.
* * * *
"Pidgey is unable to battle. Send out your next pokemon sir," the referee said.
I smiled as Wooper playfully slapped my legs with his tail.
"Ok ok ... here," I said with a laugh as I brought out a handful of pokemon
food from my pack. I'd bought it this morning before going to the tower. The
food was snatched from my hand and the sound of crunching was heard.
* Good you need it. *
"Let's get the next round started." Falkner said as the laser-like noise of a
pokemon being withdrawn was heard.
I nodded, picking up Wooper and holding him for a minute more while he finished
the food. Once it was gone he went straight into his ball.
"Go! Pidgeotto!"
"Your turn Ash!"
* * * *
"Ember,"
"Gust!"
I thought fast.
"Dodge and then use Ember."
I listened hard for the footsteps of my pokemon and the flapping of his. I
smirked when I heard the crackling sound of flames and an angry squawk.
"Use Roost,"
I could hear the smirk in the man's voice and grit my teeth.
* That move heals health ... shit. *
"Quick attack, try and land a hit before it can finish."
I heard the thud of impact, but the bird started flapping almost immediately.
(This bird is much tougher than the last one.)
"Use Quick attack again,"
"Gust,"
(Ash seems confused. His attacks aren't doing the damage he thinks they should
I am guessing.)
I growled under my breath. The evolved form of Pidgey, Pidgeotto would be
stronger. Though I'd trained him well, Ash was used to much weaker opponents.
* Poor Ash, I should have tried to battle Silver so he had experience with
stronger opponents. *
A few minutes later Ash was nearly unconscious and panting loudly. I could feel
his exhaustion and panic since I was close and had been around him long enough
to tell his feelings from others'.
(Do something before he knocks himself out ...)
* He did just learn that new attack in the tower. I can't believe I forgot
about that! *
"Flame wheel!"
This attack ended the battle. Quilava had to use it a few times due to the
ever-present Roost, but finally the Pidgeotto was unconscious. I smiled and
walked over to Ash, rubbing his back lightly.
"You did great buddy."
* Next time I will find you stronger opponents to fight so you're ready for
anything. *
* * * *
"That was surprising." Falkner said after I'd recalled Quilava.
I raised an eyebrow in the direction of his voice.
"For a while there I thought your starter was going to lose."
(He has a point.)
I shrugged. "He needs a little more training, I'll work on it."
"Glad to hear it. You did really well ... can I ask you something?"
I nodded. "Are you blind?"
I blinked, running a hand through my hair.
"Why does it matter?"
My tone didn't exactly portray that I was offended, but I wondered why it
mattered to him.
"I was just curious ... noticed you never looked at me or your pokemon during
the battle."
I sighed. "Yes I am,"
"That's cool. I believe you earned this," he said, pressing a piece of metal
into my hand. I ran my fingers over it as he continued talking.
"This is also yours: tm 51 Roost."
The disc was handed to me as well and I put both items away.
"Good luck, the next gym's with Bugsy and his bug-types."
"Thanks," I said as I left.
***** chapter 3 *****
* * * chapter III * * *
- Ruins, A Cave, and A Shady Person -
 
Murasaki, Pokemon center (Violet city) —
 
I counted my money as I waited for the nurse to heal my pokemon. I'd earned
1560 from defeating Falkner and got to keep 780 of that. Momo was quick; she'd
set up the account for saving my money soon after the call ended. I received a
message on my Pokegear after every battle notifying me of the transfer.
I was looking forward to hatching the egg Prof. Elm decided to give me. He'd
called after the gym battle to tell me he was giving it to me. It was the same
one Mr. pokemon found; I was to hatch it for further study. When the nurse
handed me my poke balls I went over to the pc to deposit a pokemon to make
space for the egg. I ended up putting Rocky in the pc.
Elm's assistant met me at the Violet city Pokemart. I smiled slightly as I held
onto the egg for a few minutes before putting it in my pack. Momo knew more
about eggs than I did, I'd call her later to ask about the best way to hatch
and take care of it.
As it was night time I thought checking the city and surrounding area for
'night' pokemon would be a good idea. After consulting the Pokedex I went back
to Sprout tower to catch a Gastly. That didn't take long and I made it back to
the 'center to put Wooper in the pc and withdrew Gastly to train.
After leveling everyone up to lv 19 I came back to the 'center. Gastly was
particularly hard to level, as its only offensive move was Lick until level 15
when it learned Night shade. I was beginning to like the gaseous pokemon, he
enjoyed flowing through walls and playing jokes. If they were on me I would
probably be a little annoyed though.
Something strange happened when he tried just that. He'd wrapped himself around
me, probably trying to choke me as his little joke. Since I wasn't voluntarily
touching him I didn't expect anything from my powers, but I was wrong. A flood
of images popped into my head and I cringed, grabbing Klefki's metal ring which
made me feel slightly better.
(He connected with you good. I can translate what he says for you. I am
guessing you can't make heads or tails out of the images?)
"H-how did you know I saw anything?" I asked the key pokemon.
(You have that face, the same one you did when the 'fish' guy touched you back
in Cherrygrove.)
"Right ..."
 
Silver, a few hours earlier (leaving Violet city) —
 
I ran a hand angrily through my hair as I left the city. (I'd taken out the
leather strap a few minutes earlier).
* Why did I act like that?! I feel like a teenage girl ... *
I felt a blush creep onto my face at the thought of the other boy.
* Why me! *
I'd acted strangely when I first met him. I wasn't exactly butting heads with
him, but I had been rude. I usually tried to stay neutral (expression-wise) and
civil with new people. This allowed me to observe them while not having to deal
with the reactions people normally gave to my personality. Yeah, I was rude,
but I had my reasons. I just didn't tend to like people as a whole most of the
time.
* I really like him though ... *
Why couldn't I just forget about the boy? He was odd-looking, had traits I
normally hated, (like being nice) and was another trainer.
* An exceptionally good trainer ... *
I had to admit that he was good, really good, and maybe that's what drew me to
him.
* So what should I do about it? This is obviously more than just liking him ...
*
Did I really like him more than just as a rival?
* Yeah ... *
I had to admit grudgingly to myself.
This was a new experience for me. I'd never been attracted to another boy
before. I'd only had one crush, and that was with a girl who worked for my dad
named Daysee. I'd been over it for a few years though. I didn't have a problem
with gay people, but I never thought I'd be gay myself.
* I'll just have to work with this then. I'm good at playing people ... but for
some reason I don't want to do that this time. *
I'd used those skills several times for missions while still with Team R.
* Turn over a new leaf ... maybe manipulating people all the time isn't how
someone outside of Team R does things ... *
 
Murasaki, next morning (Violet city) —
 
After taking a shower and putting food in everyone's bellies I went to the
Pokemart to buy supplies. As I came in a man sidled up to me. He handed me an
item and told me to keep the 'super potion.' I thanked him and made my way to
the counter, intending to make my own purchases.
I bought a second Escape rope just in case. I'd picked up the first one right
before I left Sprout tower yesterday. Four poke balls and 2 more Super Potions
joined the Escape rope in my pack. I'd been buying poke balls steadily
throughout the last few days, so still had some left. These were extras in case
I found more pokemon and needed them.
After checking on the egg (making sure it was nice and warm and not cracked or
damaged) I was ready to continue to the next town. I kept the egg wrapped in a
spare set of clothing for now, I didn't have anything else to use.
As I left the city I wondered about the Kimono girl who'd come up to me earlier
that day.
* What does 'your destiny approaches' mean anyway? *
That's what she'd told me, along with the fact that she was sure we'd meet
again.
* Great, I have a stalker ... or maybe more than one. I got the feeling there
were more Kimono girls somewhere ... *
On the way out I ran into a rock.
* Wonder if this can be smashed with Rock smash? *
I taught the hm to Mareep and had him smash the rock. An item fell to the floor
and I picked it up.
(That's a Revive.)
"Thanks, I coulda figured that out myself eventually." was my response.
(That would have taken a while. I thought you wanted to leave this place ...)
"I do. Ash let's go."
(He ran off somewhere while Mareep was smashing the rock.)
"Great ..."
A few minutes later footsteps could be heard. I tensed up, an involuntary
reaction, gripping Klefki's key-ring tightly.
(It's Ash. It looks like he has something for you.)
I blinked and reached out a hand to touch the fire pokemon.
"What did you bring me Ash?"
He nudged my leg and dropped something on the ground. I picked it up,
immediately able to tell what it was since the impressions were so fresh. When
people or pokemon touched things they left impressions or "imprints" on them.
It was similar to finger prints I supposed.
"Huh, didn't think I'd get a Hyper potion so fast. Thanks buddy,"
And then I left the city.
— — —
I had to steady myself against the wall I ran into so I could try and focus.
I'd been here only a few minutes (a place the map called the Ruins of Alph) and
was already feeling uneasy. Dizziness was there as well.
* What the hell's up with this place? *
I checked the map and went toward a wall, touching it and finding out there was
writing on it. The letters (or at least the impressions I got from the wall)
were odd. They weren't from any language I was familiar with.
"What the fuck?"
As my powers worked I got the sense that there was something behind the wall.
Maybe someone had hidden something behind it. It was also possible that
whatever was back there had been there a very long time. This place seemed very
old to me. I pushed my pack off my shoulders to get a drink of water when my
fingers touched the Escape rope I'd bought earlier.
* I wonder where I'll end up if I use this? There are a lot of buildings around
here according to the map. *
Shrugging, I used it. Instead of ending up somewhere else, the wall
disappeared. As I went to touch it once more I figured this out.
"Okaaay wasn't expectin' that."
(Neither was I. It was fun to watch it go though.)
"You are a very strange pokemon ..." I mumbled, sure he'd still hear it.
(Thank you, I would hate to be 'normal' and boring.)
A stash of items was behind the wall. A Heal powder, an Energy powder, a Pecha
berry, and an Oran berry were all stuffed into my pack.
* Well that was interesting ... *
After making sure I'd gathered everything useful there I walked back to the
main room.
(There's some sort of stone puzzle here.)
"Alright, let's see if I can solve it."
He directed me to said puzzle and I placed my hands over the stone, hoping to
either get an impression of the last person who'd touched it or figure out the
puzzle itself. What I didn't expect was the dizziness and nausea that came over
me at the slightest touch to the stone surface.
* There's old energy here ... it's like my powers are being blocked ... *
I had to swallow furiously to keep from throwing up.
(Can I help?)
"Maybe ... do you know what the puzzle is supposed to be when it's finished?"
I gave him some time to contemplate the puzzle, taking several steps back and
drinking the water I'd meant to earlier. I left the chain and the pokemon near
the stone so he could get a better look.
When I came back he had an answer for me.
(I have no idea ...)
* I was afraid of that ... *
I grit my teeth and placed my hands on the stone, hoping I could keep from
vomiting. Since I wasn't actively trying anything with my powers things were a
little better. I gently nudged the steel-type aside so I could check the puzzle
out myself.
After a few minutes of feeling the stone tiles I started playing around with
the order they were in. Sometimes doing something with my hands helped me
think. Arceus knew I needed it since I hadn't used my powers as much as I
normally did recently. Not using them actually made me feel crazy, my skin and
brain (and do not ask me how the second works it just does) itching like
fuckin' crazy.
A while later I sighed and moved another tile. A loud rumbling came from the
stone and I quickly scooped up Klefki and put the chain on as the rumbling got
louder. The floor was also shaking almost as if it had a mind of its own.
* Freaky ... *
The last thing I remember was the sound of shattering stone before I fell
unconscious ...
— — —
I woke slowly, becoming aware of two things almost immediately. The first was
that I was on a hard floor and the second revelation came in the form of a
splitting headache.
* What the fuck happened? *
"You're awake good. I was getting worried about you." an unfamiliar male voice
said.
(This man has been staring at you for a while now. I am tempted to hit him in
the face with a Fairy wind.)
"Why don't you?" I asked, not caring that the man was there to hear me.
(It is wrong, pokemon aren't supposed to harm humans ...)
"Suit yourself then,"
"Who are you talking to?" the man asked.
I shrugged, choosing not to explain.
* He probably thinks there's something wrong with me anyway ... with me passing
out and all ... *
(You fell down a hole.)
"What?"
(The stone the puzzle was attached to collapsed and you fell through a hole to
end up here ... where ever here is ...)
"Why does trouble always find me?"
"Huh?" the man asked.
"Never mind. Can you tell me what this place is?"
"Oh! You're still in the Ruins, this is just a lower level. Take this, I think
you'll find it useful."
A small electronic card was handed to me.
"... and after you put that into a slot on your Pokegear it will tell you what
Unown you have caught ..."
I obviously hadn't caught most of that, but something did stick out in my mind.
* Unknown? *
"Back up there man, what's unknown?"
"Not unknown, Unown. Unown are a mysterious psychic pokemon that can be found
here ..."
And then I tuned him out again.
Finally he walked off, probably bored.
* I don't think that guy would notice if I was paying attention or not even if
I told him. *
I captured an Unown shaped like the letter m and then left this part of the
Ruins. Klefki was eager to tell me the letter the Unown represented, so I let
him talk.
Outside once more I consulted the map. I started off toward a gate that was
supposed to lead to Route 36.
(There are rocks to break here.)
"Alright Bolt it's up to you then,"
The Mareep came out of his ball and bleated at me.
"Smash the rocks."
Ash ran off after the sheep and I wondered why.
(I think he is going to find stuff for you again.)
"I hope they don't get lost, this place is really big."
While I waited I pulled out my notebook and a pencil to draw. I didn't have any
images to 'purge' from my mind, but I didn't need them to draw. Despite being
blind I was very good with detail, but that was probably because Momo took it
upon herself to teach me what things looked like. I also had personal
experience with feeling objects and occasionally pokemon as well. I put pencil
to paper and started drawing, my mind wandering as I did. Drawing had almost
always been calming for me and I usually wasn't sure what I'd draw until
whatever it was was completed.
Several minutes later I heard footsteps approaching. I put the pencil down and
ran my fingers over the page, the familiar lines of Momo's physique greeting my
finger tips. I always made sure to trace the lines over and over again with
whatever writing utensil I used so I could feel them better. Before I could
trace the lines (with fingers) to see how much detail I'd put into the drawing
something tugged on my pant leg.
"Ash?" I asked, hoping he'd come back.
(He says you must come quick, he and the sheep found lots of items.)
"Ok let's go," I said, shoving pencil and notebook into the pack before
slinging it over my shoulders. Ash started walking and I followed, listening to
his footsteps. As excited as he was they were louder than usual to my ears.
* Y'know, if I didn't need that to get there I'd be running the other direction
by now ... *
When he stopped I nearly ran into him.
"Ash, what is it?"
(We're here,)
"What did you guys find?"
Ash nudged my leg.
(He wants you to kneel down and look. There are too many to carry.)
So that's what I did, my fingers running over several objects.
There were two Revives, 2 shards, (which Klefki told me were red) and a fossil.
(I saw something like that back when I was captured, it resembles the puzzle
now that I think about it ... once it was put together properly ...)
"What do ya mean?"
(The men said the fossil they had was from an ancient pokemon. The one you have
here doesn't look the same, but I heard them mention going to somewhere called
'kanto' to get the pokemon 'revived.')
* Reviving fossils, what will someone come up with next? *
All the items went into the pack and I recalled Mareep.
"Did you find anything else interesting around here Ash?"
He pulled on my pant leg again.
"Lead the way,"
He led me to a Hyper potion which I stowed.
"That everything?"
(He says he found a strange rock you should look at.)
He led me there and I touched it, but nothing happened.
(Use your powers, there is something here, I just can't see it ...)
I tried that and an item fell to the ground.
(That's a Rare candy I believe ...)
I smiled as I picked it up.
"I've read about these, but I thought they'd be bigger than this."
I put the item away and rubbed Ash's back.
"Maybe you should be working with a policeman instead of me," I joked.
There was more to explore, so I let the Quilava lead me around. At one point he
ran off, coming back with a Great ball. The smell of water drifted into my
nostrils and I sighed as I leaned against a rock near its edge. I could hear
the water gently sloshing, that's how I knew how close to it I was. Ash left
again and brought me something called a Tiny Mushroom.
"What do I do with this Ash?"
He rubbed up against my arm in answer.
* It smells horrible, so that rules out eating it. *
I let Ash and Mareep run off to find more items after going into an empty
building. When I came out the fire type was ready for me. He tugged on my hand
and I followed with a chuckle.
(He says the sheep battled a Geodude and won and that they found more items.
They collected them for you.)
In the pile they assembled I found 2 Blue shards, a Max revive, and another
Rare candy.
"Think we should get going now. We've been here a couple hours ..."
A press of a button on my Pokegear proclaimed the time was 12:30 people. more.
I'd left the watch at home.
— — —
Half an hour later found me continuing along Route 32. A guy stopped me and
refused to move unless I heard what he had to say. I sighed, but let him talk.
After his little tirade he gave me a Miracle seed, an item to be held by a
pokemon that would boost the power of grass-type moves it used. I thanked him
and kept going.
I gathered a Repel, tm 09 Bullet seed, and a Great ball on the route. There
were several trainers as well, which I battled. All five of the pokemon with me
were now either level 19 or 20. Ash brought me a Great ball and I smiled at him
as he tugged my pant leg.
(He says there is a building with a ball on it he wants to show you.)
— — —
At the Pokemon center (yes there was one on Route 32) I healed everyone and was
about to leave when a man came up to me. After talking for a few moments he
gave me an Old rod. He said I could use it to catch pokemon with. I put it away
and left the 'center.
There was one more thing to do before crossing the bridge (where I'd battled
some trainers earlier). Bolt smashed a rock and brought me a unique item. It
was a Shell bell, an item that healed a pokemon when they attacked an opponent.
It needed to be held by a pokemon in order to work. I put it away and crossed
over the bridge to continue traveling. I'd go through my items later and give
pokemon new moves and hold items as well.
— — —
The next area was a cave — the map said it was Union cave. I got a weird
feeling when I entered, almost as if people were afraid of something.
* What, is there a 'monster' in here? *
There wasn't much to do on the first floor near the entrance, so I descended
some stairs to the second floor. There I caught a Zubat and a Sandshrew.
I heard running water down there so I followed the noise and almost fell into a
small lake.
* That was close ... *
I took out the Old rod and did some fishing. I captured a Magikarp (useless but
had a good evolved form) and a Goldeen. I had no idea what I'd do with the
second fish, but it was a water pokemon, which I had very little of.
* Maybe Momo will trade me something for it. *
I ran back to the pokemon center and placed Hoothoot in the pc, switching it
with the newly gained Sandshrew. I took a few minutes to feel the pokemon,
making sure that I gave off a calming manner. I couldn't actually put thoughts
into people's heads like Lyra, or push emotions on people like Empaths could,
but when I wanted people to be calm they usually were. Except of course if they
were normally hyper-active, up-tight, or perpetually angry. Once I was done I
scratched the ground type's ears and sent him back into his ball.
Back in the cave I trained him to level 13 (an improvement from the lv 8 he was
when I caught him) and searched for items. I got an X attack, tm 39 Rock tomb,
an X defend, a Great ball, and a Potion. Ash wandered off and picked up items
for me as I trained Sandshrew (who I'd decided to name Shane). He brought me an
X speed, a Great ball, and a Paralyze heal.
There were five trainers to fight in the cave. Shane took care of most of their
pokemon, Joker (my Gastly) filling in when he got too beat up. I kept training
Shane till he reached level 15 then used the map to locate the exit. There was
an Awakening near it (which I stowed) and then left through the exit.
Route 33 was the next area. There weren't any new pokemon, but I finally caught
a Rattata. The Pokedex required pokemon be captured in order to fill all the
information on them in. It had something to do with the database in the device,
and even I hadn't figured out how it worked yet. I trained Shane until he was
lv 19 before battling the only trainer on the route. I also knocked some Blu
apricorns out of a tree as well.
Shane evolved into Sandslash at lv 22 — which I helped him achieve. He had
strong moves now — Swift, Fury swipes, and Rollout to name a few. He looked
different after evolving, having gained spines on his back and growing bigger.
He also had claws that were longer and sharper than his pre-evolved form. All
in all, I was pleased with the progress he'd made.
— — —
As I entered the city I shivered and clutched at my head. There was someone
here with a seriously dark motive. My guess was they wanted to kill or hurt
someone — or maybe multiple someones.
(There is a man in black attacking a woman.)
"What the ..." I muttered, trying to get a fix on the person.
I started toward where I could feel (and hear) the two people, hoping to either
stop the 'man in black' or at least find out who he was.
(He stopped and left the woman there. He is standing in front of a strange-
looking building now, glaring at people on the street.)
"Blocking the building ..." I mused, using the map.
* That's Slowpoke well ... *
I shrugged and went to the Pokemon center, Klefki reminding me this was Azalea
town as I walked. After healing everyone I put Gastly in the pc and withdrew
Hoothoot. I planned to evolve him and possibly Bolt on Route 33. With the low-
level wild pokemon it might be a little while before their change in forms.
— — —
By the time I was done training, it was almost 21:45. I now had a Flaafy (the
evolved form of Mareep) and a Noctowl (Hoothoot's evolved form). I nicknamed
the newly evolved psychic type Radar. The Pokemon center was my destination
when I re-entered Azalea town.
***** chapter 4 *****
* * * chapter IV * * *
- First Encounter with Rockets, Entering The Spider's Lair, And A Mystery
Solved -
 
Murasaki, Pokemon center (Azalea town) —
 
My Pokegear rang as I unlocked the door to my room in the Pokemon center.
* I hope that's not the Professor with another 'quest' for me ... *
I let it ring and pushed the door open, putting my pack down before seeing
who'd called.
* Momo, better call her back. *
"Hello,"
"Hey sis, sorry I missed your call, I was ..."
"You don't havta explain 'bro. You're a trainer now, I get it."
Thankfully her tone was neutral. I wasn't sure what I'd do if she was mad at
me.
"Yeah ..." I said awkwardly.
"I have news for you 'bro!"
"What is it?" I asked, genuinely interested.
"I bought you something! Do you have any herbs yet?"
"Like what, Energy powder?"
"Yeah."
"I found a Heal powder and an Energy powder in some Ruins hours ago ..."
"Good! You don't have the one I bought yet ... I got you a Revival herb."
If I remembered correctly those revived your pokemon, but made them hate you
due to the taste.
"Everything ok?"
"Yeah, just trying to remember what that one does."
"Revives your pokemon and makes them dislike you because it tastes bad. Useful
though minus that little setback,"
Revival herbs were supposed to be better versions of Revive, but if you asked
Momo they were a lot better.
"So how's your journey coming along?"
"Fine all things considered ..."
"What happened Mura? You may as well save yourself the trouble and just tell
me."
I chuckled. "Trouble found me again. I was putting together a puzzle in the
Ruins of Alph when ..."
"Wait! Did you say the Ruins of Alph?"
"Can I finish?"
"Sorry Mura,"
"It's alright ... I solved the stone puzzle and fell down a hole into another
level of the Ruins. I must have hit my head really hard since I don't remember
the fall."
"So you have a concussion?"
"Not that I can tell ... the stone started shaking and shattered then ...
nothing ..."
"That's horrible Mura."
"That's what happened."
"You're ok though, you weren't seriously injured by the fall were you?"
"No, just had a headache like a mother-fucker for a while ... Momo, why are you
interested in the Ruins?"
"Damn, I was tryin' ta hide that,"
We both laughed at that.
"There are supposed to be some very rare pokemon in there ..."
"So it's not because the place's a living relic?"
"Well ... that might have something to do with it too ..."
"Stop Momo, just messin' with ya."
"So what pokemon was in there?"
"Unown."
"Unown? What does that mean?"
"No sis, that's the name of the pokemon, they're ... they look a lot like
letters actually."
"Oh! Can you get me one shaped like an m?"
"I caught one just like that earlier."
"What pokemon have you captured so far?" she asked, changing the subject. I was
glad for it, I would rather not remember how off and 'creepy' it felt in those
Ruins.
"Sentret, Geodude, Spearow, Ledyba, Caterpie, Weedle, Pidgey, Bellsprout,
Hoothoot, Hoppip, Mareep, Wooper, Ekans, Gastly, Unown, Sandshrew, Zubat,
Rattata, Magikarp, and Goldeen."
"Are those all the pokemon you have?"
If anyone else was this nosy I'd yell at them, but I knew Momo well enough to
know that she just cared.
"I also have the Klefki I told you about before, my starter, and an egg Prof.
Elm gave me."
"Have any of your pokemon evolved yet?"
"Cyndaquil to Quilava, Sandshrew to Sandslash, Hoothoot to Noctowl, and Mareep
to Flaafy."
"Nice, looks like you'll have a strong team for just about any trainer you come
across."
I sighed, running a hand through my hair.
"I wanted to talk to you about that actually ... would you like to trade with
me?"
"What are you lookin' for?"
"I've always liked fire and fighting types. You convinced me to catch and train
psychic types too ..."
"With Gardevoir?"
"Yeah,"
"I might be persuaded. Is there anything in particular you want?"
"Hmmm ... I'd like a Raltz and a fighting type if you can find one."
I also wanted more fire types, but I was confident I could find those on my
own.
"I'll see what I can do."
"What about you? What do you want?"
"I'm trying to collect as many water types as I can — they're my current
project at the moment. I'd also like that Rattata you have. I know they're
weak, but we don't have them here in Hoenn, or if we do I haven't found one
yet."
"Sounds good to me."
"Give me a few minutes to look through what I have and I'll get back to you.
Oh, before I forget ... I mailed you a package, the nurse in Azalea should have
it for you by now."
"What you send?"
"You'll havta wait and see 'lil bro."
Ten minutes later she called back. I'd gotten the package but hadn't opened it
yet.
"Yeah," I said in greeting.
"I found you a Raltz! Thankfully I was near Petalburg city and beat one up for
you."
"That's great sis,"
"Did you get the package yet?"
"Yeah, haven't opened it."
"You should, there's something in there that will really help you."
"What else is in there?"
"Just a little surprise I found lying around."
I snorted and opened the box she sent. Inside was something wrapped in a
blanket and ... some jewelry?
"Sis, what's with the jewelry?"
"It's not ordinary jewelry. Put it on."
I was surprised by her answer, but put it on anyway. Klefki told me it was made
of of black metal with symbols etched into it.
"Well, what do you think? Feel any better?"
* Huh? *
As a matter of fact I did, the buzzing in my head that came with being a
psychic dulled to an almost manageable level.
"What are these sis?"
"They're called Dowsers. They ..."
"Dampen psychic powers."
"Yes, I thought you might be having trouble in unfamiliar environments."
"These aren't from dad's company are they?"
"No, they're from another well-known company and I researched them thoroughly
before buying those."
I sighed in relief, the last thing I needed was to be walking around with
'property of Lans-corp.' stamped on me. Dad's company made stuff like this, but
I never trusted their products. Who knew what kind of 'extra' shit they might
add.
"So you'll wear them then?"
"Definitely,"
"They are supposed to help with control too, I sent the manual as well and made
sure to read it thoroughly first."
"Thanks sis,"
A few minutes later I was in the 'center's lobby, placing Goldeen's poke ball
in the trading machine. I pressed the 'transfer' button and the ball was sucked
away. A minute or two later a different ball replaced the one I'd sent. I
picked it up, smiling as I felt the stenciling Momo liked to put on all her
poke balls. This one was of a wave of energy. I put Flaafy in the pc in order
to train the new psychic-type.
 
Silver, the same night (outskirts of Azalea town) —
 
I'd been training in Ilex forest (an area just beyond Azalea town) for the
better part of an hour. I managed to evolve Kakuna into Beeddrill, Spearow into
Fearow, and Mareep into Flaafy. The Sandshrew I'd caught in Union cave was
coming along nicely as well. She was level 19 at the moment.
I walked inside the Pokemon center and healed everyone. I had a few more I
could train, but since it was getting late I decided to worry about them later.
When I went outside I smiled slightly, planning to wander around the town. It
was nighttime (one of my favorite times of day). When I got to the middle of
town my eyes landed on a figure that looked slightly familiar. I flattened
myself against a building, putting a finger over my lips to signal for Sneasel
to be quiet. As I watched, the figure paced around, dressed in some sort of
black outfit.
At first I thought it might be Murasaki, but there was no Quilava following the
person. After observing for a while I finally figured out why the person, or
rather their clothing, seemed so familiar.
* That's a Team R uniform. *
And indeed it was, the red r standing proudly against the black background of
the shirt.
* Shit I better get back to the Pokemon center before that guy recognizes me. *
— — —
In my room I made a phone call.
"Hello?"
"Hey Kimi it's Silver."
"Wondered when you'd call Bob, let me get somewhere safe."
That was our code for 'not in a safe area.'
A few moments later she spoke.
"So where are you anyway?"
"Do you really want me to tell you?"
"Ok ok, don't tell me. If they find me out it's better I don't know."
* My point exactly. *
"Have you found anything in Proton's office that gives any leads on what Team
R's doing?" I asked, hoping the answer was yes.
She sighed. "No unfortunately. He's been in his office so much the last few
days I haven't gotten the chance to look through his files."
I bit my lip.
"Has anyone mentioned a mission in Azalea town?"
"Yes ... Proton was telling some grunts to 'be ready' whatever that means.
Azalea was mentioned in regards to that."
I shook my head.
* Why do I always have bad luck with Team R? *
"Is that all you needed to know?"
"For now. Think you can check Proton's files while he's gone?"
"Hmmm ... he left in a truck a few minutes ago ... I'll try."
"Good," I said before hanging up.
 
Murasaki, the next morning (leaving Azalea Pokemon center) —
 
I released Raltz (whom I'd nicknamed Blitz) as I left the Pokemon center.
(He wants you to carry him.)
I smiled slightly and picked the psychic type up from the ground, cradling him
in my arms. He was level 4 so I would need to train him a lot so he could catch
up with the others level-wise.
Footsteps made a hasty retreat as I ran a hand through Blitz' short hair.
(Ash ran off again.)
* Hope he doesn't get into trouble. *
He was a lot more aggressive now that he had evolved and I was worried about
him getting into fights with other pokemon. So far, this hadn't happened yet.
I didn't have to wait long for the fire type to return. He nudged my leg. I
wrapped an arm around the pokemon I was holding and held out my free hand for
whatever he'd found. It turned out to be a Full heal.
"Thanks Ash,"
Klefki informed me of an apricorn tree in town and I made my way over, picking
up the wht apricorn that fell from the tree.
Before leaving the pokemon center I'd stopped at the pc to change my party.
Raltz was added and the rest of the team inspected for possible training
opportunities. I kept Quilava and Klefki, switching Flaafy with Spearow.
Sandslash also was kept in my party. Spearow was level 19 so evolving it
shouldn't take too long. He was supposed to evolve at level 23.
I checked the map of Azalea, deciding to go and see a man named Kurt. It was
rumored he made custom poke balls out of apricorns. One of the trainers in the
'center was talking about it, but I wasn't sure if she was telling the truth or
not. She was way too happy, something which I normally questioned — Momo being
the only exception seeing as I knew her so well.
When I arrived at his house I knocked on the front door.
"Oh hi," a girl's voice said.
* Why's there a girl here? I thought this was Kurt's house ... *
I asked that out loud:
"Doesn't Kurt live here?"
"Yeah he does, I'm his granddaughter by the way,"
* Like I really care all that much ... *
"Come on in," she finally said after a few minutes of silence. I had no idea
what to say to her, so just walked inside.
I have this problem around people. When I don't know them (or am unfamiliar
with their particular traits like smell, sound of voice, and how their emotions
normally feel) I don't know how to act. It's not that I'm afraid or anything, I
just feel extremely awkward. I was ok with the people of New bark because it
was such a small town and everyone knew everyone. I especially liked the
professor, (except when he sent me on errands that got me into trouble) having
done some research for him before via field work.
"You ok kid?" a man's voice asked.
"Sorry, just thinking about stuff,"
"So what did you want with me?"
"You're Kurt then?" I asked, wanting to make sure.
"Yeah,"
We chatted for a few minutes, the granddaughter adding something to the
conversation here and there. Kurt told me about his custom poke balls mostly.
Eventually he became agitated, something which got me interested immediately.
* What's up with him? *
"Is something wrong?" I asked.
"Yeah ... there's a guy standing in front of the Slowpoke well, he's from Team
rocket."
* Who's that? *
"Team rocket?"
"They're a group that does bad things here in Johto," the granddaughter
explained. I would have raised an eyebrow at the phrasing, but having been
around her for a while I knew she was just really young, not ignorant. If I had
to guess I'd say she was probably seven or eight.
"So, if they make you so angry why don't you do something about it?" I
inquired.
"I asked him that already," the girl said.
"This time I will! I can't let them hurt people in Azalea town,"
I chuckled darkly.
"I hate to tell ya this, but a member beat up a woman here just last night." I
informed him.
His emotions went from agitated to rage in a few seconds flat. He left the
house, presumably to 'do' something about Team rocket. His granddaughter
thanked me and I left as well.
* Better follow him, people angry like that don't usually do so well. The anger
clouds their judgement and they tend to make mistakes. *
I wasn't exempt from this, but when I was around a person for long enough
(usually a few minutes as long as I was physically close to them) I could feel
their emotions. I'd felt it before people did stuff like this in the past, and
it almost never went well.
— — —
I used the map to make sure I knew where I was going. Klefki had told me about
the woman being attacked and I looked up where the man went the night before,
but it was late and I could have missed or forgotten something. I was surprised
to feel a stagnant "bubble" of air as I approached the well entrance. This
usually meant there was no one around.
* The guy who was guarding the entrance must have gone off somewhere. Maybe
he's inside ... *
I went in myself, gritting my teeth at the sudden downward slope to the floor.
There were four species of pokemon in the well. They were Zubat, Slowpoke,
Goldeen, and Magikarp. I ignored the Zubat, Magikarp, and Goldeen, catching two
Slowpoke. One I would keep for myself, holding on to the other for a trade with
Momo later. I'd get a Magikarp at some point for her too.
Once I'd caught what I wanted I put Blitz on the ground. I pulled out tm 27
(Return) and taught it to him. Momo sent me a message on my Pokegear earlier
that morning, telling me what moves the psychic type knew.
* Growl and Ice punch ... *
Growl was normal for a Raltz at his level, but Ice punch was a move almost no
psychic type could learn. It was a fighting type move, but from my studies I
knew other pokemon types could learn it such as Elekid (an electric type). The
message let me know she'd gone to the move tutor in Hoenn and had Ice punch
taught to him.
* I'll havta remember to thank her later. *
With Return and Ice punch training him wasn't so hard. He knocked out a few
Zubat before I was challenged to a battle. The challenger was a guy dressed the
same as the one from last night. Klefki told me his outfit consisted of black
pants, a long-sleeved black shirt with a large r on it, and white boots. After
battling him I kept going.
There were two more Rocket members (a male and female) and I figured they were
grunts of some sort. I mean this in the sense that their pokemon were so weak
that either all of Team rocket was weak, or they were just low-level agents —
thus the term 'grunt.' Blitz beat up wild Slowpoke and Zubat in between
battles, reaching level thirteen pretty quickly. He now knew Ice punch, Return,
Confusion, and Teleport. He was a little tired out, so I went back to the
Pokemon center to heal him.
— — —
The egg Elm gave me started shaking a little after Raltz hit level 13. I had no
idea how long it normally took for an egg to hatch, so wasn't sure if this was
a good or bad thing. For that matter, I didn't even know how eggs behaved (I
use this word loosely) when they were about to hatch. I did start getting a
feeling from the thing though: happiness.
* That's ... odd ... *
I re-entered the well and retraced my steps, following the path. I collected a
few items on the way there, finding a Super potion and getting one from Ash.
He'd found the thing when he ran into a rock. I theorized that he could smell
items somehow, maybe each one had a unique scent he knew of. I was oblivious to
this even though my senses were all much better than a regular human's. That's
not to say I wasn't human, just that I had ... certain advantages others
didn't.
Klefki told me he'd seen glimpses of a man with green hair watching as I
battled the Rocket members. I wasn't sure what to make of this so just brushed
it off. I leveled Raltz up to lv 18 before moving farther into the well. I also
gave him the Choice band, thinking it would help level him faster.
* If there is someone I haven't battled here I hope they show themselves soon,
I don't have all day to wait. *
— — —
It turned out the green haired man did want to battle me. He had quite a lot to
say first though.
"What do we have here? I am often labeled as the scariest and cruelest guy in
Team rocket ... I strongly urge you not to interfere with our business!"
I shrugged, not feeling anything from him yet.
* Need more time if I really care to know his emotional state. *
* * * *
He sent out a Zubat first.
"You're up Blitz," I said as I pushed him forward gently with my foot.
"Leech life!"
I winced inwardly as Raltz whimpered from the attack.
* That drains hp. If I'm not careful, it could do a lot of damage. *
Thankfully for us it only took a little at a time.
"Confusion,"
"Fly to the right,"
I smirked, having a way around that.
"Teleport and then Confusion."
I listened carefully to the attacks, trying to pinpoint the exact moment he
should strike.
"Now," I instructed a few seconds after the soft 'chime' sound of Teleport was
heard farther away from me. The Zubat seemed surprised, letting out a horrible
shriek as it was hit. A few more Confusion attacks later and the bat was down
for the count.
* * * *
He sent out a Koffing next.
"It doesn't matter where we go, there's always someone that doesn't agree with
us ..."
I groaned and ran a hand through my hair.
"Will you just shut up?"
"No," he said, a smirk in his voice.
* Well damn, I was hoping he'd be so surprised he'd listen ... *
"Can you keep going Blitz?"
(He says he's fine to take out this ... 'gas ball' ... his words not mine.)
I ruffled Raltz' hair and he stepped in front of me to take on his opponent.
* * * *
"Poison gas,"
* Shit ... *
"Dodge and use Ice punch,"
The ice formed in his small hands (a sound like icicles clicking together to my
ears) and he landed a solid blow. I guessed the 'gas ball' pokemon was floating
close enough to the ground for him to hit. Maybe he had to jump to do so.
* Koffing can do major damage if they poison their victims ... I better not let
that happen. *
"Smog,"
* Not another poison-inducing attack ... *
Unlike Poison gas, this one did damage as well as possibly poisoning the
target.
"Dodge with Teleport and give it your Confusion,"
It took a few rounds of dodging and landing hits with Confusion, but the
Koffing was finally almost ready to quit.
"Are you serious? Did you come here thinking you could mess with our plans?"
Proton said.
* Just shut the fuck up ... *
"Finish this with Ice punch,"
"Float out of the way,"
"Use Teleport to chase it."
(Why do that?)
"You'll see," I muttered.
Doing that seemed to thoroughly confuse both pokemon and trainer. Every time
the poison type would float to get away from Blitz he disappeared and
reappeared next to it.
* Nice. *
(What is the point of this?)
I chose not to answer.
"Wrap things up with Return. Shoot the attack into the air." I told Raltz.
The heart-shaped projectiles Return created struck their target hard. The
pokemon hit the ground so hard it made a muted thud. Since it was made of gas
this was actually pretty impressive.
"Grr ... for a kid to be this good ... I didn't see it coming."
* * * *
* He better shut up now. *
Blitz' feelings grew clouded and then disappeared altogether once the battle
was over.
* W-what's going on? *
This had never happened before. A noise like ... sparkles (a ring-tone Momo had
on her phone) was all I heard for a few minutes.
* I hope he's alright ... *
Eventually I felt his emotions, those of pride and something I had trouble
putting words to. The best adjective I could come up with was 'powerful.'
(He looks different now, I think he just evolved.)
I brought the Pokedex out of my pocket where I usually kept it and pointed it
in Blitz' direction. When nothing happened I took a few steps closer, the
machine beeping a few times before saying:
"Kirlia the emotion pokemon. Kirlia is the evolved form of Raltz."
I wasn't supposed to have any information on pokemon from regions other than
Johto at the moment, but I'd tweaked the programming to at least identify
pokemon from other regions.
"Humph ... Team rocket was indeed broken up three years ago. But we continued
our activities underground. A small obstacle like you won't be much of a
problem for our mission. I advise you to be very afraid of what is to come!"
Proton said before leaving.
* A little late for talking isn't it? Shouldn't you have said that right after
the battle ended? *
I figured he had been watching Blitz' evolution, but wouldn't admit to it if
anyone mentioned this later.
I followed the path back to the entrance of the well after that, Klefki
commenting on the fact that all the Rocket members were gone.
* Must have left when I wasn't lookin' ... *
I snorted to myself and stopped, locating Blitz by his emotions and putting a
hand on what I thought was his shoulder. It was.
"You did really well back there Blitz, I'm proud of you."
(He says thank you.)
 
Murasaki, at Kurt's house (Azalea town) —
 
"I would like to give you something for helping out back there," Kurt said as
we both entered his house.
* I did all the work old man, you just stayed at the entrance ... *
"Like what?" I asked.
"A sample of what I can make. Don't worry — the poke ball does work."
He had me stay in the main room (or what I thought was the main room) while he
went off to find the ball he'd mentioned.
"How'd it go?" his granddaughter (who's name I still didn't know) asked.
I shrugged. "He wasn't feelin' well, so I battled the Team rocket members
there. They left after that."
* Why are you so nosy? *
Maybe she actually wasn't, but since I still didn't know her well, it felt like
that to me.
Thankfully Kurt came back before she could say anything else — Arceus forbid
she have to wait to find out details from either of us.
"Here you go: this is a Fast ball."
He put the ball in my hand and I ran my fingers over it.
(Blitz likes the color.)
* He would. *
The Raltz-turned-Kirlia was fascinated by colors. It might be because he was a
shiny pokemon — blue instead of the usual white Raltz and their evolutions
were.
"What does it do?"
The balls were customized, they must be special in some way.
"It has a times 4 catch rate for pokemon that can run away from battles."
* Okaaay doesn't tell me much. *
"What do you mean?"
"Well ... if a pokemon knows Teleport they can 'escape' or 'run' from battle.
I've heard that the legendary dog pokemon can run as well."
* Legendary dog pokemon? *
"Legendary dog pokemon?"
"Entei Raikou and Suicune! You've never heard of them before? ..." Kurt's
granddaughter gushed. There was more, but I tuned her out.
* I'll have to look into these 'legendary' pokemon. *
It wasn't that I wanted to catch them for myself, but there was likely a
history behind each one, history having been one of my favorite things to study
while at the trainer's schools. I was still interested in it now.
Kurt asked if I wanted him to make any poke balls for me after the girl was
done chattering away.
"Sure,"
I spent a few minutes inspecting the Apricorn box (with Klefki's help) to see
which apricorns I had.
"How about this one," I said, holding up the only grn apricorn I had.
"That will make a Friend ball. It makes pokemon happier faster." Kurt said as
he took it from me.
"It will take me a day to make the ball for you."
Before I left the granddaughter (who's name was finally revealed to be Maisy)
asked me if I wanted Kurt's number. I agreed, typing it into the Pokegear.
— — —
In the 'center I healed Blitz and started up the pc.
* Hmmm ... I have Quilava, Klefki, Kirlia, Spearow, Sandslash and the egg in my
party ... *
After thinking about it for a few moments I decided that was the team I'd take
to the gym. The egg started shaking again as I left the building.
* Wonder if it will hatch soon ... *
I took some time to train and evolve Spearow. The well and Route 33 were the
areas I trained him at. After reaching level 23 he evolved into Fearow. Since
flying types had an advantage over bug types he would be a great asset in the
gym battle.
 
Murasaki, gym (Azalea town) —
 
The egg shook once more when I came into the gym. The movements were so violent
I was tempted to take it out and make sure it hadn't been damaged. I pushed the
impulse down and continued on.
Blitz decided to ride in his poke ball when we walked in, so Ash was the only
pokemon following me around now. And of course Klefki was riding around my
neck.
There were four trainers to fight in the gym. Since they were weaker, Ash and
Klefki battled most of the trainers' pokemon. One of the battles was odd
though, I never knew you could battle two people at once. It worked like this:
two of mine versus one each of theirs. Kirlia and Fearow took on the task of
this new type of battle. After defeating all the trainers I went back to the
'center to heal then returned to fight Bugsy.
— — —
I weighed my options before choosing who would fight in the battle. One of the
trainers said Bugsy had three pokemon, so I chose Blitz, Klefki, and Quilava to
fight in the battle. Klefki and Quilava were lower leveled than the rest, so I
wanted them to gain experience from the battle. Kirlia was lv 21 while
Sandslash and Fearow were levels 22 and 23 respectively. Quilava was lv 21 and
Klefki was lv 20 since he hadn't felt like battling as much lately. I thought
about using Fearow, but decided against it last minute.
"Murasaki of New bark will fight Bugsy our leader, begin!" the referee said.
I smirked, plucking Blitz' ball from my belt.
* Ice punch should be a nice surprise for him to deal with ... *
"Go Scyther!"
"Go Kirlia!"
* * * *
"Confusion,"
"Quick attack!"
"Dodge ..."
(It's too fast ...)
Even as I tried to help Blitz was crashed into. I cringed at the sound of
bodies colliding and thought for a moment.
* There has to be something I can do. Its Quick attack is even faster than
usual ... *
A full-blown smirk slid onto my face as I put together a plan.
"Use Confusion again Blitz, Teleport as well,"
This was a subtle hint to do a barrage of Confusion attacks with Teleport in
between. It was a combination I'd worked on with him earlier that day.
* Might have to teach everyone stuff like this. It worked with Blitz and Skip,
so why not everyone? *
Skip's barrage had only contained Water gun though, something I would have to
add to when teaching the others.
Ten minutes later the pair were still at it. The combination I'd ordered Blitz
to do was definitely angering the bug type, I could hear furious cries of
"scyther!" every thirty seconds or so. The few times Confusion met their mark I
could tell because the bug was finally silent and Kirlia took a few steps
before teleporting away. I'd grown so used to the sounds the attacks of my
pokemon made Klefki hardly had to explain what was going on to me anymore.
I chuckled as I heard an annoyed grunt from my opponent.
"What's the point of this? Neither of them are doing much damage." he asked.
I shrugged. "You're bored? We can finish this round now if you want."
There was no reply from the other male.
I sighed and subconsciously wrapped a hand around Klefki's key ring.
"Let's help them out with their boredom Blitz! Ice punch,"
The dynamic of the battle changed then, the bug obviously getting very tired.
The point of the barrage-run tactic had been to tire it out after all. Sure
Blitz was using up energy by teleporting, but his was of the mental capacity.
With as much running and flying around as Scyther had been doing it was a
miracle the bug had enough energy to stand, let alone fight.
"Dodge by flying,"
"Teleport and then use Ice punch,"
All was quiet for a moment, the only noise the buzzing of the bug's wings as it
took to the air. I could sense that Kirlia was calculating the best place to
teleport.
* The bug won't know what hit it. *
Seconds passed with no activity and then the bug hit the ground with a loud
thud.
* * * *
"Scyther is unable to battle. Bring out your next pokemon leader," said the
referee.
"Go Kakuna!"
I recalled Blitz after stroking both his horns affectionately.
"Klefki you're up,"
I removed the chain from around my neck and undid the clasp, placing the key-
ring pokemon gently on the floor.
A snort came from Bugsy.
"You're kidding me. You aren't seriously going to fight me with a set of keys
are you?"
* Must everyone ask things like that? Can't they just take what they see at
face-value? Oh right, sight can blind more effectively than being blind
sometimes ... *
"Yes," I said simply.
* * * *
"Iron defense,"
"Harden,"
* If we both keep this up nothing is ever going to happen ... *
I took the initiative.
"Return,"
I'd taught him the move earlier that day when Blitz learned it.
* Please do decent damage ... *
"Harden," Bugsy ordered with a smirk in his voice.
* He's really enjoying this isn't he? *
Unfortunately for me the attack didn't do much at all.
(Need something stronger ...)
"Fairy wind, Return,"
I hoped he'd get an idea of what I was trying to do with that; hit it so fast
it couldn't raise its defense higher in time. He'd watched Blitz' fight, so
he'd seen something similar to the idea at least.
Thankfully he did, both attacks making a crash-crunch noise as they hit.
* Take that! *
"Poison sting,"
* Are you really that stupid? It won't do much ... *
That wasn't just me boasting either, steel types had a strong resistance toward
poison type moves. I hadn't tested it, but it wouldn't surprise me if Toxic
didn't affect him at all.
The little needles hit Klefki's metal body and bounced off harmlessly. I heard
the sounds and the key pokemon confirmed it for me.
(That was rather ...)
"Stupid?" I asked.
(Yes, though I would rather find a more ... eloquent way of saying so.)
"Not now,"
"Who are you talking to?" Bugsy asked.
I shrugged. "Does it matter?"
Silence.
"Finish up with Astonish, Fairy wind,"
"Harden,"
The defense-raising move did nothing to help the bug. Together, both moves did
70 points of damage, something most would have trouble with. Or at least, most
second-stage bug evolutions that had a third would.
The bug fell over and Klefki jangled loudly.
(I won!!!)
I grimaced at the noise. I picked up the pokemon, slid him back onto the chain,
and put it back on.
"I know you're excited, but could you keep the jingling and jangling down
please, it hurts my ears,"
* * * *
"Kakuna has been knocked out, send out your last pokemon leader," the referee
said.
"I can't believe you got this far ... Finish them off Metapod!"
* Another cocoon pokemon? *
"Ash your turn!"
"Ash?" asked Bugsy.
"Quilava," I said. My tone had a barely-just-there mocking quality to it. I was
so tired of people asking me questions ...
* * * *
I snorted.
"This will be over fast ... Quick attack Howl then Ember,"
"Harden as many times as you can while he isn't attacking,"
* You're so done ... *
It didn't take long for Metapod to faint. All Ash really had to do was hit it a
few times. I only had to tell him to use Ember one more time before a crash was
heard followed by a deafening silence (deafening to me anyway).
* * * *
"That was the strangest battle I've ever participated in," Bugsy remarked as
the laser-sound of him recalling his pokemon met my ears.
"How so?"
"Nobody's ever thought of using attacks over and over on Scyther like that,
I've never faced anyone who fought with a set of keys, and no one's ever
defeated Metapod so fast."
* Wonder if he figured out why I had Blitz do that barrage-combo yet? *
"You never said ... Why did your Kirlia use its moves like that?"
I smirked, but said nothing.
He sighed. "Not going to tell me are you?"
"Nope,"
"These are yours now." he said, putting a small metal object and a disc into my
hands.
I also received the money for winning from him, 1800 — 900 going to Momo.
"The badge from here is called the Hive badge. That tm is 89 U-turn. The
pokemon that learns this move will attack first, then switch out with a random
pokemon in your party."
"If it can do that, why didn't you use it in the battle?" I asked curiously.
"Didn't feel like it. Sometimes I use it to scare big-shot trainers, but you
don't seem to be one of those."
I shrugged. "I am good, but I put the effort in to get that way."
"That's what I figured,"
— — —
The egg shook even more violently immediately after I left the gym. It got so
bad I had to remove the egg from the pack, worried it would damage some items —
or worse get damaged being in there with the items. I shucked off the pack and
untied it, pulling out the clothes-wrapped egg and holding it in my hands. The
sound of Klefki's voice drifted to my ears (telling me there was a bench nearby
to sit on) seemed very faint compared to the still-shaking egg in my hands.
I sat down and unwrapped it, feeling the surface for cracks and damage. The
shaking went on for at least five minutes, the egg eventually rocking gently
back and forth where I'd placed it in my lap. I traced the lines of cracks in
fascination as they begun to appear, more and more coming as the minutes went
by. Eventually a loud cracking noise could be heard as cracks the length of
most of the egg came into existance, the surface getting slightly sticky.
I pulled my hands back as the egg cracked open. I knew because Klefki told me.
Whatever was inside shook itself, scattering shell fragments all over my lap as
it tried to get rid of the pieces still clinging to it. Again, this information
was the courtesy of Klefki.
I reached out a hand, careful to avoid the sharpest shards, (with Klefki's
guidance) picking up the pokemon and brushing off what pieces I could. What
wouldn't come off I shoved my finger nails under and gently peeled away. When I
was finished cleaning the pokemon the best I could a sound finally came from
it.
"Togee prii!"
"What's that?" I asked no one in particular.
(Never heard of a pokemon called Togee prii before myself ...)
I huffed, taking out the Pokedex from my pocket to scan it.
"Unknown ..." was all the device could tell me.
"Wonderful ..."
The (still unnamed) baby pokemon jumped up and down as I lay it in the crook of
my arm.
* It is cute, but I have no idea what it is ... *
A few minutes later the baby yawned cutely and fell asleep against me.
"Think I'll call you Troy,"
***** chapter 5 *****
* * * chapter V * * *
- Rival Encounter Two, Ilex Forest, And Some News -
 
Murasaki, same day egg hatched, 18:05 Pokemon center (Azalea town) —
 
I healed everyone, thinking about the pokemon I had.
* Might be a good idea to grab a few of the ones I haven't evolved yet and
train them ... *
After some contemplation I decided I'd train and evolve more pokemon when I got
to the next town. Checking the map I found out that was Goldenrod. I also
looked through my items, realizing I was low on poke balls. The last thing I
did before leaving was switch Fearow with Gastly.
I went to the Pokemart next, going up to the counter and pulling out several
items I wanted to sell. I sold 1 Tiny mushroom, 1 X attack, 1 X defend, 1 X
speed, 6 Potions, and 1 Paralyze heal. The lady behind the counter took the
items (the sound of them moving across the counter let me know) and handed me
some money. I stepped back from the counter so I wasn't in the way and had
Klefki help me count the money.
It was faster that way. In total there was 1950. I also had some from before.
I went back to the counter and bought 8 poke balls. Since I had a lot of other
items I didn't need anything else from here. I put everything away and then
left the shop. It was time to go onward.
 
Silver, 18:30, same day (near Ilex forest) —
 
I'd battled Bugsy the day before, bringing my badges to two. My current team
was Sneasel, Croconaw, Flaafy, and Noctowl. Two were lv 20 — Noctowl was lv 23
— Croconaw was lv 18. The female psychic-bird had evolved recently, but was
pretty strong.
This surprised me, I wasn't expecting much from her. In my experience psychic
dual-types were pretty weak — some Team R members had them. I personally
thought that was a big mistake. I certainly wasn't going to get a Zubat and
evolve it into Golbat just because the thing looked cool. And yes, that had
been an answer I got from a grunt once.
I'd been exploring what part of the forest I could, ignoring training for a
while. As I re-entered the city, I spotted a familiar trainer. I groaned
inwardly as I felt my heart beat speed up at his appearance.
* This is pathetic ... *
If anything though, he did get my blood pumping, something which no one else
could manage.
* And he doesn't even know he's doing it. *
— — —
I smirked as I grabbed a poke ball from my belt.
"Go! Croconaw!"
The blue pokemon appeared, standing in front of me.
I watched as Murasaki pulled the chain from his neck, wondering what the hell
he was doing. There appeared to be a set of keys on the chain.
* The key-pokemon again? *
The other boy smirked, sliding the key-ring off of the chain. I knew from
experience that the key ring and the keys attached to it were actually a
pokemon. A steel-type if the other boy could be believed.
"Your turn Klefki,"
He dropped the keys to the ground where they jangled loudly. We both winced.
* This is going to be interesting ... *
* * * *
"Iron defense,"
"Bite!"
Croconaw ran toward the keys, jaws open and ready to deliver a vicious bite.
Unfortunately it didn't do all that much.
* What's wrong? That should have ... oh right ... steel-type. *
"Return then Fairy wind,"
"Let it hit you,"
"Uhhh ..." was all the other boy said to that.
"Confused? Good," I replied, watching the fight out of the corner of my eyes.
Like instructed, the water type was just standing there, letting himself get
beat up.
"Rage,"
"Return,"
"Let it hit you then Rage again,"
The heart-projectiles hit right before Croconaw crashed into the keys. The
second attack was much stronger than the previous one.
* I need to do something better. The attacks are doing damage, but they aren't
doing as much as I'd like ... *
"Astonish,"
"Dodge,"
"Astonish barrage,"
"Dodge and use Water gun!"
The keys were putting up a decent fight. I'll give Murasaki this: even with a
strange pokemon he could put up quite the fight. But since I had a water
pokemon against a steel one, he would lose. After several dodges and near-
misses from the keys, the water attack finally knocked the Klefki out.
* * * *
"What ..." Murasaki said.
There was a shocked expression on his face. It almost seemed like he'd never
lost, and wasn't sure what to do.
"I'll stay with Croconaw,"
He nodded distractedly, plucking a ball from his belt. The chain went back
around his neck, the key-pokemon sucked into a poke ball.
"Go! Gastly!"
* * * *
* This could get ugly real fast. I have one of those and know what they're
capable of. *
"Hypnosis,"
"Dodge,"
That move had a very low accuracy rate, something I was grateful for now. I was
pretty sure Croconaw could survive this round, but if he were put to sleep, I'd
have a hard time waking him since he was already somewhat tired from the last
round.
"Hypnosis again,"
The boy pulled out an item and used it, a light green glow surrounding the gas-
pokemon for a moment.
* I hope that doesn't make things difficult. *
As it turned out that was exactly what it did. Croconaw couldn't even dodge
this time, it was almost as if he'd used Lock-on (a move that ensured a hit on
the next turn). The water type fell to the ground asleep within a few seconds
of being hit by the attack.
* Shit ... what do I do?! *
"Night shade,"
I tried nudging the sleeping pokemon but nothing happened.
* You did well at least Croconaw. *
The attack struck its target right after I moved out of the way, knocking
Croconaw out.
* * * *
I smiled slightly as I recalled my starter.
"Glad you got back in the game. Was worried there when you lost and were
devastated."
He shrugged. "Never lost before," was all he said as he withdrew Gastly.
* It can be quite the experience ... I take losses and learn from them, hope
you do the same. *
"Go! Flaafy!"
"Go! Blitz!"
* Blitz? *
Apparently 'blitz' was a Kirlia. I'd seen one on tv once. It was a psychic type
I think.
* Hmmm ... you're full of surprises. *
* * * *
"Return,"
"Thunder wave!"
The projectiles did strike at Flaafy's face, but not before lines of blue
electricity slammed into the other pokemon. The attack wasn't very powerful,
but then again it didn't need to be. It was supposed to paralyze, not knock out
an opponent.
* Let's see you get out of this one ... *
"Come over here,"
The blue hued pokemon (which I thought was odd since Kirlia were supposed to be
white) came over to their trainer. Instead of ordering another attack, I was
unable to take my eyes off the other boy. He pulled out another item, spraying
something onto the pokemon.
* I hope that's not what I think it is. *
If I was right, that would be either a Full heal or a Paralyze heal, either one
able to undo the work I'd just done.
He smiled (rubbing the pokemon's shoulder) before the oddly colored Kirlia
turned to face Flaafy once more.
"Nice trick, but I have some of my own."
At first he just stood there, (which would have been a great time for me to
attack) but I still couldn't take my eyes off him. He ran a hand through his
white-purple hair, the tresses looking smooth and recently washed. I really
wanted to run my hands through it ... kiss him roughly, while I pressed him
against a wall ... tangle my hands through that hair as I assaulted that mouth
...
The sound of Murasaki's voice brought me out of my day dreams.
"Confusion and Teleport,"
I thought his pokemon would execute the attacks then wait for further commands,
but this wasn't the case. Somehow his Kirlia was using Teleport and Confusion
in tandem, shooting off the first, disappearing, reappearing, then shooting off
the first again. It was actually rather distracting, something I needed more
time to formulate a plan to counter.
I forced myself to watch the battle and not the boy, but it was harder than I
thought it would be.
* The dreams I had last night and the night before that are sooo not helping
... *
I'd dreamt of him, touching, kissing, seeing and hearing him writhe in pleasure
...
* Get it together! *
"Every time it reappears hit it with Thunder shock. Ready the electricity and
re-charge it after every sighting,"
That really was the best I could do with no more time to plan.
* Hope this works ... *
Things were not in my favor. Flaafy was able to get in only two attacks, so
baffled by the turn of events as she was. I tried having her use Tackle as
well, but the results were even worse. She couldn't get close enough with those
attacks working like that ...
* That's it! It's a combo. Bet he taught it to his pokemon during training,
trying to find a good use for Teleport. *
He rolled his eyes at me as the fight continued. I glanced down at my watch at
some point, shocked to find that just this round had gone on for ten minutes.
* What's his game with that combo? *
"Bored yet?" he asked with a smirk.
I snorted rudely.
"Should I be?"
His smirk turned wicked.
"The last person who saw this did,"
He sighed, tapping one of the bracelets on his wrists with fingers from the
opposite hand.
* When did he get those? *
They really suited him, the black metal adding to his get-up rather than making
it glaringly 'wrong' like I'd seen some additions do before.
"Let's wrap this up. Ice punch Blitz,"
I was thoroughly confused now.
* It's a psychic type, how can it use that? *
He shrugged, his eyes going vacant. I wasn't sure if he was thinking or
focusing on something I couldn't comprehend.
* Maybe he's blind, I haven't seen him look at the pokemon or me this whole
time. Come to think of it he didn't the first battle either ... *
When the Ice punch hit there was a loud sound, the forming of ice, then the
slamming of an icy fist into Flaafy's stomach ...
I blinked several times, not sure I'd actually witnessed that.
* * * *
 
Murasaki people. o. very. (in between rounds 3 and 4) —
 
"Did your Kirlia just ..." I heard him say as I walked over to the psychic type
and squeezed his shoulder in thanks.
I chuckled, gently running my fingers through the horned pokemon's hair. He
liked to keep it down, preferring that over the pig-tailed style most Kirlia
wore.
"What you saw did happen. I've got a sister in Hoenn who had the move taught to
him by a Move tutor there,"
* Hope he believes me ... *
The silence made me think otherwise.
"Is there any reason for me to lie to you Silver? What benefit would I get from
doing so?"
I wasn't sure why, but I had the feeling this would help. He struck me as
someone who thought things through a lot more than I did. Plus, the feelings I
got from him (even wearing the Dowsers) were ... calm, steady. I know those
aren't exactly 'feelings' but that's the best way I can describe it.
Some shuffling around then silence.
"You have a point. You're not going to tell your sister about this are you?"
"Only that I battled you if she asks,"
After thinking a moment I added.
"If that makes you feel better I mean."
He laughed softly, the sound making me smile a little.
"Why do you care? You don't even know me."
Instead of accusatory or angry his response was merely ... curious? I
concentrated, trying to use my powers to clarify what information my regular
senses were giving me, but the power didn't come easily like it usually did. I
usually just got surface emotions and an insight to one's overall personality
with my powers, now I was looking deeper.
* Uhm ... what the fuck? Oh right, the Dowsers, must havta work harder to do
anything now ... *
After a few minutes (in which neither of us spoke) I was able to brush my
virtual psychometric fingers along his body.
* Genuine curiosity ... one-track mind ... focused on only me ... turmoil over
the loss ... Wait! Did I just 'feel' interest in me? *
It was the interest a boy with a crush had for a girl he liked, but not
exactly. It was more ... innocent in a way, but also not naive. Translating
this mess into plain ol' English would read like this: He is interested in me,
but he's unsure about how he feels about me or being gay or bi or whatever he
is.
* Talk about confusing ... *
Finally I spoke up.
"You're an interesting person ... I also see that you kept up your end of the
bargain."
"Sure did. Was there ever any doubt?"
"Only because I don't know you very well," I replied, wondering why he sounded
like he'd have gotten offended if I outright said 'I do not trust y.'
"Let's keep going," he suggested.
I nodded, returning Blitz to his ball.
"Let's dazzle him. You're up Shane!"
The mouse chattered excitedly, running around me a few times before coming to a
stop next to me.
"Uhhh ... Noctowl it's your go!"
* Don't blame you. He's a ball of energy now that he's evolved. *
* * * *
"Swift,"
"Fly upward to dodge, keep dodging till they all pass,"
He was referring to the fact that Swift had multiple star-shaped rays that
attacked the foe.
* Good luck with that. I specifically trained with him to make this attack
faster and it already can't miss easily. *
There was a very small chance the bird could dodge any of the star-rays, let
alone all of them.
Every time a ray hit the bird its wings flapped erratically, which I figured
meant it had to re-correct its flight pattern. I would have asked Klefki to be
sure, but he was knocked out from his earlier fight.
"Swift again,"
This time the bird was unable to dodge any of the rays, landing on the ground
heavily afterward.
"You still able to keep going?" Silver asked his pokemon.
It hooted in agreement.
"Get up and fly then," he instructed.
The bird took flight once more.
"Dive down and use Hypnosis," was his next command.
I could hear the smirk in his voice.
"Gettin' revenge for earlier Silver? We won't let that happen will we Shane?
Dodge,"
He ran away from the dive bombing noctowl, evading the attack completely. I
heard rushing air as the bird flew upward.
"Peck,"
* Won't save you ... *
"Rock tomb,"
The rocks trapped the avian, I could hear it screech angrily as it tried to get
away. Rock tomb the way I'd trained with Shane was a cage that held its target,
lowering its defense when the pokemon became trapped inside. It was something a
clever trainer could navigate their pokemon out of (or get them out by
destroying the rocks).
Silver did the latter.
"Stop screeching for a moment, I'm getting you out of there,"
This got the avian to shut up quick.
"Use Confusion on the rocks,"
* Might work ... it should know Uproar. At the right frequency that would
shatter them. *
A few minutes later I heard flapping overhead and knew the bird was free.
"Land on the ground and use Hypnosis,"
I smirked, deciding to use a maneuver I'd had Shane practice with recently.
"Curl into a ball and roll out of the way,"
"What kind of move is that?" asked the other boy.
I shrugged. "Not one,"
"Spin into a Rollout attack," I ordered after I heard him rolling around for a
bit. The rolling became more vigorous, the attack requiring for him to spin
very fast to gain the necessary speed and power.
"Fly up to avoid it,"
* Not gettin' away that easily ... *
I pulled out my Pokegear, bringing up the map. After consulting it I was sure
what I wanted him to do to counter the bird's flying would work. There was a
tree nearby, something he could use.
"Roll into the tree nearby and use it to bounce into the air."
"What the hell?" Silver asked.
"Didn't see that comin' did ya?"
It took a few tries, but eventually he gained enough height by using the tree
to roll into the psychic-bird. We were very lucky it was near the tree. I
figured Silver'd been so caught up in watching the near-impossible display that
he forgot to give orders.
When Noctowl went down there was a pained screech, the sound making me grit my
teeth and cover my ears. In fact, the sound lingered inside my head for several
minutes, not letting up or becoming softer ... until I finally lost
consciousness ...
* * * *
Silver shook me several times. On the fifteenth or sixteenth (or what I thought
was one of those) I finally was able to blink my eyes open.
"What happened?" I rasped.
It felt like my head was full of cotton ... or fluff.
"You passed out. I'm confused though: the screech didn't knock me out."
I groaned, but at least his voice wasn't as loud as the screech had been.
I reached out a hand and touched his wrist, the accuracy of the movement pure
chance. I was so disoriented I'd be lucky to be able to travel anywhere right
now.
"I've got better senses than most people," was all I said in explanation.
* I don't know him well enough to tell him more just yet. Besides, he might
think I'm a freak, which would really hurt ... he'd treat me like one ... *
A hand on my neck broke me out of my thoughts.
"Can I get you anything to help?"
"Water might," I said, gesturing to where I thought I'd dropped my pack before
the battle started. He must have gone and found one of the bottles inside since
he pressed one into my hand.
"Here,"
I sat up with a little difficulty and downed the entire bottle in seconds.
Instantly I felt better. There was just something about water that could do
that for me after things like this happened. Food was the other option for
dealing, but water had been the first thing that came to mind.
"You gonna be alright?" he asked.
I nodded, noting I could without hearing ringing or encountering a vicious
migraine, both good signs.
"Let's finish the battle," I said, taking the hand he offered to help me up. I
squeezed it once before taking several steps back.
I located Shane by his 'feel' and checked him for injuries. He was fine for the
most part, but it seemed the screech had hurt his ears too. I asked him if he
was ok, touching him all the while to catch the body language pokemon usually
communicated to humans with. A rush of images passed into my brain, immediately
dowsed and sorted by the bracelets into a sequence.
They showed the last moments (through Sandslash's eyes) before I collapsed.
He'd crashed into the airborne psychic type with so much power they both landed
on the ground hard, the avian not getting up afterward.
"... you ready to start?" Silver asked.
I nodded, recalling Sandslash.
"Go! Sneasel!"
"Go! Ash!"
* * * *
"So it did evolve, I wondered what Quilava looked like,"
I shrugged, running a hand over the red spots on the fire type's back, each one
igniting at the touch. I hummed contentedly as the heat "turned on" and moved
my fingers a few inches away — just enough to feel the extreme heat but not
enough to get burned.
"Quick attack Sneasel,"
"You too Ash,"
It took a few times of them both using Quick attack for anything to happen. On
the fourth time of this happening they both slammed into each other. I heard
the crash and blinked a few times.
* Wasn't expectin' that. They both shda been so fast they would avoid an attack
until one of us ordered something else. *
"Quickly use Covet,"
"W-what?" was all Silver said to that.
His Sneasel was hit by the attack, being knocked over.
"Quick attack Slash,"
* Didn't know he nicknamed it ... *
While I was distracted by that he must have given the order to strike because I
felt pain from Ash when I focused back on the fight.
* Fuckin' pay attention Mura ... *
"Howl,"
I covered my ears in advance to deal with the noise, thankful he had the attack
anyway. He'd need all the firepower he could get.
"Quick attack again," Silver ordered.
"Ready a Flame wheel, attack with your judgement, just make sure it's not
moving when you do." was all I told the fire type.
He gave an affirming cry before all was silent except for the sound of rushing
air as Sneasel ran around.
Ash must have found his opportunity, for I heard something slam into the ground
and the crackling of flames.
"Get up!"
* If he even can. That was a direct hit I'm guessin' and with the boost from
Howl more powerful than usual ...
"Quick attack,"
"Use your Quick attack too Slash,"
It only took two Quick attacks this time for the pokemon to collide, both
falling over with loud thuds. Quilava pulled himself up, his flames still
burning, but not as strongly as they normally did. There was no sound from the
Sneasel.
* * * *
I blinked as a hand landed on my arm just above one of the bracelets.
"You did really well," said Silver, his voice that close making me shiver.
"You alright? The screech still affecting ya?"
I shook my head, unable to force words through my lips.
* What the fuck?! *
He put some money into my hand, closing my fingers around it.
"1536 you've earned it,"
I nodded, putting it into my pocket. Half of it disappeared and a 'ding' from
my Pokegear signaled the money's transfer.
I finally could speak after that.
"Yeah thanks,"
"You don't look so good, you sure you're alright?"
I sighed, closing the hand attached to my free arm around his wrist.
"I'm fine, just a little ... flustered."
* Why the hell did I say that?! *
"Ok ... 'think I'll get going now."
I tightened my grip, determined not to let him run again.
"Silver ... look, let's exchange numbers ... y'know, so we can call each other
when we want a re-match ..."
He snorted, but didn't try to leave again.
"Alright, if you answer a question for me."
I nodded eagerly.
"Are you ... interested in me?"
The way he said it (putting extra emphasis on the word 'interested' than one
would normally) told me he meant 'are you attracted to me' instead of something
more naive and innocent.
I bit my lip, not sure how to answer. Would he think I was a freak for saying
'yes' or would he be angry if I said 'no.'
I was too annoyed with that thought pattern to deliberate for long.
"Yes,"
He ran a hand over my cheek.
"The truth?"
"Hell, Silver, I've been attracted to you since the first battle,"
* That was risky ... nice going genius ... *
He leaned into me, my body instantly heating up at the contact.
"Should I do something about that?"
* Now you're jus' teasin' me ... *
I shook the hand on my arm off and gripped one of his shoulders tightly,
pressing my mouth against his. He responded with passion, our tongues dueling
for dominance when I opened my mouth to let his in. I backed off quickly,
loving how he wrapped his arms around my waist and clutched me to him tightly
afterward.
* Does ... submission turn him on? *
Before I could really get into it, letting my fantasies (nightly things that
involved no clothing and a lot of activity) run wild, he broke the kiss. He at
least didn't shove me away like a few other guys who'd kissed me had. They had
all been 'straight' and wanting to 'experiment.' I had no idea if that was
Silver or there was something else going on here I wasn't aware of.
"Silver?" I asked, needing to know I hadn't seriously fucked things up.
He caressed the side of my neck with a hand.
"Sorry, needed to breathe,"
* Oh duh! I tend to forget how to breathe when I kiss since I get a sensory
overload ... *
I'd still gotten one (even with the Dowsers on) which I found a little odd.
"I ... uh ... You ever done that before ... y'know with a guy?"
* You sound so like y'know what you're talkin' about Mura ... *
"No, you were the first time with a guy,"
* Oh fuck, he's one of those ... *
He must have seen something on my face because his hand moved down to squeeze
my shoulder instead.
"Is that a problem for you? I mean, you are the first guy I've been attracted
to, but after days of dreams and not being able to stop thinking about you ...
I'm not going to just run away from this."
* Admirable at least, but can I trust him? If he finds out about my ... talents
what will he do? *
"Silver you need to know a few things about me before you make a decision like
that."
He laughed quietly.
"What, you got baggage or already with someone?"
* Good two questions I can answer without feeling like a freak. *
"No to either one,"
"Then what's the problem?"
I grit my teeth and played with the chain around my neck.
"I'm a psychic — a psychometric to be exact. Figure out what that means before
you make the decision to be with me ... might check police records on
abductions 12 years ago too ..."
I was about to leave then, but he stopped me.
"You're hurting aren't you? I wanna help ... it's just that I'm not sure how
... I'm not used to dealing with people, let alone giving comfort."
I sighed. "Say that again after you've done the research. If you really believe
in how you feel about me and do the research, the truth will be easier to deal
with and understand,"
I wrote down my number and handed it to him (careful not to touch too much lest
I latch onto him like a needy leech and not let go) and then left, my
destination the Pokemon center.
"I will find out, and then I'll find you," I heard Silver say as I walked.
I had no choice, I'd connected with him so much I'd probably be hearing his
voice for hours now if we stayed in the same city.
* Damned powers ... why can't I just be normal for once? If those ... Cyphr
people hadn't taken me all those years ago ... I might be ... and then I
wouldn't be afraid to get close to people ... wouldn't be afraid they'd think
I'm a fuckin' freak ... *
 
Silver, a few minutes after Murasaki left (Ilex forest) —
 
I was worried when he spoke near the end. He sounded so broken and weak.
Normally that kind of thing would disgust me, but for some reason I cared about
this boy. Cared so fucking much I wanted to 'be with hm' as he put it.
* I hope he's not a serial killer or something ... *
I'd made up my mind before he'd kissed me: I would do whatever it took to make
him mine. Or at the very least give it my best shot. As much as I wanted him, I
wasn't going to force him. But I would do the research he mentioned, then I'd
call him and arrange another 'encounter.'
There was a good reason I didn't follow him into the Pokemon center even though
my pokemon were in desperate need of healing. From what I'd seen and heard
(especially in the last few minutes) he needed some time alone. I also had a
phone call to make. Hopefully Kimi had some information for me.
I'd noticed that the grunt who'd been guarding the well was gone. I'd even gone
inside and searched the place myself to make sure there was no one left. The
whole place was empty of people, but I had found something useful. There was a
computer chip lying on the ground, but I hadn't been able to make heads or
tails of the data on it. It just looked like a bunch of numbers and letters
deliberately jumbled together to me.
I'd typed them into a message and sent them to Kimi last night (a process that
took quite a long time). I had yet to hear from her about that, and I was
pretty certain Murasaki had beaten all the Team R members inside the well. Kurt
had mentioned a kid with his description defeated the 'rockets' when I picked
up a custom-ball from him yesterday. To think, a kid had stopped them. Proton
would be furious if indeed he was sent here.
* That would be amusing to watch ... *
I pulled out my Pokegear and dialed Kimi's number.
"Hello,"
"Kimi you got anything?"
"Good thing you called now instead of ten minutes ago. I just finished copying
all the relevant-looking files and information from Proton's office and am
driving home now."
"That's good. Did you find a lot?"
"Loads actually. Haven't had a chance to look through anything very thoroughly
though — didn't want to get caught so started copying computer files and photo-
copying the rest."
"Good job ... Did you get a chance to look at the message I sent you?"
"Yeah. What did this string come from?"
"String?"
"Data string Silv — it's what you sent ... looks like a code to open a door or
safe."
I growled under my breath.
"Don't. call. me. that."
"Oh touchy ... ok ok, I won't."
"You have any idea what the string is supposed to open?"
"A secret base is my best guess. The numbers and letters at the beginning
suggest top secret information and the numbers at the end mean a 'vault' of
some sort."
"Alright ... did you find out why Team R went to Azalea?"
She snorted. "It sounds so weird hearing you say that when you're ex-R now."
I sighed. "Just answer the question."
"Yeah yeah. They went to Azalea to sell Slowpoke tails for a profit."
I decided not to comment. I'd seen some Slowpoke in the well while searching
around, but none of them had missing tails.
"What, you gonna be a heartless bastard about this?"
"No, just wonder what they did with the Slowpoke afterward. All the Slowpoke I
saw after they left had their tails."
"Hmmm that's odd."
* You're telling me ... *
"Is there anything else you need right now Silver?"
I thought for a moment, not sure if I should involve her in the research.
* I can't get access to the Team R databases anymore, there might be something
there that can explain what he meant ... *
"Silver?"
"Sorry ... Can you look in the Team R databases for anything on abductions 12
years ago?"
"What for?"
"Just a project I'm working on. Might have a case against them if I can get
enough evidence."
* I'll do the rest of the research myself. I will come back to you ... no
matter how bad or how 'freaky' things get Murasaki. *
"Ok I'm on it. Can do that from home actually. I'll scan the stuff and put it
on chips to mail you. Is there a secure location I can mail them to?"
I thought for a moment.
"I know someone in Goldenrod who will keep stuff safe for me. Have it sent to
the Pokemon center there and I'll contact them."
"Uhhh can I have a name so I can put on the package 'only to be picked up by'
... this person?"
"Lanie Zel."
 
Murasaki, same day, 19:55 (leaving Azalea town) —
 
For the past hour I'd been at the 'center, getting ready to leave Azalea town.
First I got the pokemon healed, then I went back to the room to look through my
items again and pack. I paid particular attention to the thing in the blanket
Momo sent me, discovering it was another egg. I would need to put a pokemon
into the pc in order to hatch it, so Gastly was put in there.
The egg was very warm, which made me wonder how long it would take to hatch.
Momo also sent a book titled 'guide to hatching and taking care of baby
pokemon' along with one on how the Dowsers worked as well. I held the egg in my
lap (the blanket still wrapped around it) as I flipped through both stores of
information.
* I'll havta check these out more later ... *
I also pulled out the letter dad left with my Pokegear and read it:
Murasaki,
You are no longer my son — no longer a Jeigar. Your leaving home for this
'silly journey of yrs' was the straw that broke the camel's back. I have
already cut your access to family funds, and if you try and register anywhere
that needs your full name you will find signing your name as Jeigar will raise
red flags.
I wasn't going to give you this device, but your sister insisted I give you the
best model possible. She does not know of your disassociation with the family,
but she is hardly family in my eyes — too much like that 'horrid woman.' This
is the last you will hear from me. From this day forward you are no longer a
Jeigar and no longer my son. For all I care you could be gay and into bondage.
DON'T COME LOOKING FOR ME WHEN THIS WHOLE TRAINER THING BACKFIRES ON YOU — I
WON'T HELP YOU.
- Albert Jeigar -
CEO Lans-corp. -
* What a fuckin' jerk! So that's why he just gave me the 'gear and let me
leave. I don't need him anyway, Momo's the only family I need. *
There was a tiny voice in the back of my mind that whispered Silver could be
part of that family, but I diligently ignored it.
— — —
I kept all the pokemon I'd had in the battle with Silver when I went into the
forest (minus Gastly). I helped out a man who lost his Farfetch'd, sending them
both back to him after I found them. Another man was there as well when I
approached the first. One of them gave me hm 01 Cut, which I used to cut down a
tree before exploring further into the forest. Quilava was the one who learned
Cut so we could continue.
I collected 1 Revive, 1 Poke ball, an Antidote, and an Ether. Quilava found and
brought 3 Tiny mushroom, an X attack, an Antidote, a Repel, and a Super potion.
After getting all these I came across another fat man (Klefki's name for him
not mine). He was able to teach the move Headbutt to pokemon. Troy learned it
and I tried it out on a nearby tree.
Unlike most moves Headbutt could be used out of battle. Of course, Flash worked
the same way. Troy was now lv 9 — I'd trained him some before cutting down the
tree. I made sure to catch an Oddish and a Paras as well, they could be useful
at some point. I was thinking that Oddish would be more useful though. I'd read
somewhere they had four possible evolutions, so I caught 2 using the last Dusk
ball for one and a poke ball for the other.
After capturing the new additions I worked on leveling Troy again. When he was
lv 15 I went back to the 'center to heal. When I entered the town Ash ran off
(I followed) and we met a man in a house who gave us a Charcoal. I let Quilava
hold onto it, it would boost his fire-type attacks by 20 percent.
While the nurse healed my pokemon, I brought out the Pokedex and used it to
find out what pokemon could be caught in or around Azalea town. The machine
spoke out the list. There were two pokemon that showed up as 'unknown' which I
wanted to check out before leaving Azalea. After the pokemon were healed I went
outside to try and figure out what the unknown pokemon were.
Klefki told me what was around me as I walked around town. At this point it was
faster than constantly scanning with the Pokedex. Finally he noticed some trees
behind the Pokemon center and I walked over to them. I had Troy use Headbutt on
them, hoping a pokemon would fall out. That's why you could use Headbutt out of
battle, to find and catch pokemon that were harder to find. This was not always
the case, but sometimes you could catch certain pokemon in trees much earlier
than looking for them in say grass.
There were two trees behind the 'center. The first tree contained a Heracross,
which I caught with little trouble. The second tree held an Aipom, another
capture. Heracross was a bug-fighting pokemon and Aipom was a normal type.
I went to the well after snagging the two new pokemon. I got Troy to level 17
and the egg from Momo shook a little after he elevated to 17. I pressed the
button on the Pokegear for the time and was surprised to find it was 01:00. I
went back to the 'center and healed the pokemon before going to bed. I made
sure to unwrap the egg and cuddle it close to me as I slept.
 
Murasaki, next morning, Monday (leaving Azalea town) —
 
Before leaving the town for good I got the (now finished) Friend ball from
Kurt. I decided to leave my only wht apricorn with him so he could make me
another Fast ball. I went back to the forest, Klefki reminding me where I'd
stopped the night before.
Near the fat man, was a Kimono girl. Klefki told me she was not the same one
I'd met in Violet city. This one was lost, so Ash took her back to the entrance
of the forest. Once Quilava came back I moved on.
I trained Troy occasionally, but mostly focused on finding the various items
scattered around. I didn't find any myself, but Ash brought me a Full heal, an
Ether, and a Star piece. There were no more items and nothing else to do in the
forest, so I made my way to the gatehouse that should lead to Goldenrod city.
When I stepped out through the non-forest side of the gatehouse I found myself
on Route 34. There were several pokemon I could catch here. Drowzee, Abra,
Ditto, Magikarp, and Krabby were sent to my pc. I got two Ditto and two Krabby
— the extras for Momo. The Magikarp was also for her.
I was hoping she'd trade something for the Ditto even though it wasn't a water
type. She'd gushed about Ditto to me once, saying it was cute and could be used
in breeding to 'make more of one pokemon.' Apparently whenever you put a
pokemon in a day care with a Ditto it would have their baby no matter the
gender. If a pokemon was genderless, like some ghost-types and legendaries they
would not breed with it.
I went on in the route after catching the pokemon I wanted. After battling
three trainers I somehow ran into a tree. I'm not sure if I wasn't paying
enough attention, or if Klefki wasn't. Something hit the floor after the
collision and I picked it up to find it was a Super potion.
I battled the last trainer on the route (a female picnicker) after that. She
had a Bulbasaur, a starter from Kanto she said. She told me she might be able
to get me some evolutionary stones at some point, so I added her number to the
Pokegear when she offered it. Since she was the last trainer I was relieved for
the short break.
After passing by her I came to a building. Klefki directed me to a sign, which
I touched. After a moment I gathered that it said 'day care.' I went inside and
heard Lyra talking to someone, but didn't care enough to listen to what was
being said. When she was done, Lyra came over to me and gave me a tour of the
place. Lyra gave me her number before she left. I agreed to take it
reluctantly.
I went back outside and an old man gave me a sheet of paper with two numbers on
it. He told me they were for him and his wife. One of them would tell me if the
two pokemon I left were compatible or had an egg, and the other would tell me
how many levels the pokemon I left there had grown. I input the numbers and
went back inside.
For now, I wanted to leave my Ditto here. I put Troy into the pc and grabbed
the pink pokemon. Once it was safely behind the counter I went back to the pc
and looked over my newest additions.
* What should I train next? *
I ended up putting Troy and Shane in the pc. I chose Oddish and Magikarp to
take their places. At the very least, I could train and evolve both of these
two. Magikarp was useless, but evolved into the mighty Gyarados. Oddish was
pretty weak, but evolved into Gloom, a much better pokemon. The team was now
Quilava, Klefki, Kirlia, Oddish, Magikarp, and the egg.
After modifying the team I made it back outside. There was one more trainer to
fight and a tm before I could get to Goldenrod city. The tm was 63 Embargo, a
move that didn't seem too useful. I picked it up anyway just in case.
A security guard said "hi" to me as I entered the city. The Pokemon center was
where I went first once in. I healed everyone and Momo called to inform me of a
package she'd sent. In it were an Amulet coin, the Revival herb she'd promised,
and a Lucky egg. The coin gave double the amount of money if the pokemon
holding it fought in battle with a trainer and the Lucky egg gave extra exp
points during battle. The Revival herb Momo had reminded me before 'revived'
pokemon with the side-effect of making your pokemon hate you due to its
horrendous flavor.
***** chapter 6 *****
* * * chapter VI * * *
- Team Pink Versus Team Purple, Research, and Another Baby -
 
Cipher and Team Rocket have an unlikely alliance. They work on joint projects;
both having goals of taking over the world and using pokemon to do so. One
wants to terrorize and intimidate, while the other seeks to take people's
pokemon and use them for their own dark purposes. Either way, they're both
rotten to the core.
 
Nascour, somewhere in the Under, Orre (exact location unknown) —
 
I snuck into Ardos' office, being sure he was out of the base before making the
attempt. I was on rocky ground with the Executive, my former status as part of
Cipher working against me. Though we were essentially both members (or ex-
member in my case) of the same organization, we'd operated under different
bosses with different goals. In my time with Cipher I'd worked under Verich, an
alias the boss took to seem like a harmless old man. Ardos worked under another
until a few years ago, one whose sinister plans had involved a Lugia.
* What was the man thinking? Were the people of Orre just supposed to sit back
and let stuff like that happen? *
I shook myself from my thoughts as I crept into his office, already knowing
where the files I sought were. Thankfully the dark blue-haired man was due to
be out for several hours, so my chances of getting caught were very low. I was
working for Ardos now, but ever since Wes took down Cipher when I was fully
into what was being done to pokemon, my goals had changed. No longer did I want
world domination through taking others' pokemon (or going through the trouble
of using legendaries like Ardos' boss had). My goal now was to take Cipher down
from the inside, which is why I'd prostrated myself before the man and offered
to do his dirty work as well as clean his office every few days.
Being the big boss now, he didn't have time for things like that. I made sure
to appear extremely desperate when I asked to join up with Cipher again,
knowing if I didn't I'd be suspicious. The official story was that Wes (with
the help of a girl named Rui) took down Cipher ten years ago. Most operatives
from that time were locked up somewhere. I was the exception to the rule
however.
I'd done my time in jail, but at the end before Cipher was defeated I aided the
hero. This is what got my sentence shortened, the plans and locations I gave
him were what got the job done faster. Not to say that Wes wasn't strong and
capable in his own right (he had the proof practically stamped over all the
work he did) but I did help at least. I had the chance to redeem myself and
took it.
By the time I figured out what Verichs' plans actually were I wanted out. (He'd
told everyone he'd take over Orre and give executives a city or two to rule
over). Using the Tyranitar wasn't the end, he'd wanted to lure Ho-oh and use
its power to take over the world. Unlike the reborn Cipher that Ardos was part
of, he planned to lure the bird in front of an audience instead of capturing it
outright. The plan was brilliant and terrible at the same time. With some of
the projects I found details for Verich might have been able to do so, the
world forever doomed by the flames of a legendary who had no choice in the
matter.
I growled under my breath and opened every drawer I could find, determined to
get this done before my new boss got back. I did rearrange papers and files on
the desks in the room, (my usual duty when I cleaned the office) but my main
goal was to find out what he was up to. After several minutes of fruitless
searching I finally hit the jackpot. There was a hidden compartment in one of
the drawers, not unlike a false bottom the way it was nearly invisible against
the dark wood the drawer was made from.
When I tried removing it I encountered a snag. I rolled my eyes up to the
ceiling, taking a poke ball from my belt and releasing Sahlia. The Gardevoir
appeared and glanced around, her eyes finally falling on me.
"I want you to use Psychic on this drawer. There's a locked compartment I need
you to take care of."
A few seconds later there was a soft click and I recalled her, removing the
hidden slat of wood that had been previously locked. Inside was an innocent
enough looking file, plain and simplistic with the words "project scramble"
printed in block letters on the outside .
* Project scramble? *
There were many documents in the file, but only one meant anything to me.
— project scramble —
The idea of this project is to create stronger and more unpredictable pokemon.
Such pokemon will not only create chaos, but be a great asset in the 'master
plan.' What is being done to the subjects in question is a "scrambling" of the
attacks they can use. For instance, we created a Mareep so physically strong it
could crush rocks given the right tm or hm.
The processes taking place in order to achieve such feats are phenomenal. Some
pokemon are just enhanced in some way in order to accomodate such moves, while
others are given an item to eat that changes their structure entirely. One
example of the latter is "aqua burst" a water type that can use fire-type
moves. The DNA of the water type is the same on the outside essentially, but it
can also use moves such as Fire blast and Flare blitz.
The reason "special" pokemon like this are being made is for our benefit
mostly. There is a tracking chip inserted into each subject, one which cannot
be removed easily. Most subjects would die if it was taken out. In this way we
will have spies all over the great regions, the pokemon in question will be
accessible through a simple press of a button on a device I created for the
purpose of controlling them.
Instead of closing their hearts in order to make them more ruthless, I have
devised a way of controlling pokemon remotely, while collecting information in
the process. The idea is to make sure that at least one of each type is set
lose in each of the great regions, ensuring we have spies in many locations at
once. I have taken care to release only those types that exist in such regions,
we couldn't have say a Fairy type in Johto, where they do not exist naturally.
One more important detail to note is the 'breeding' progression with these
"special pokemon," which I have been ordered to refer to them as. When they
breed with a "regular" pokemon, they pass on the traits that give them the
"wrong" moves. If we go back to the case of the Mareep I will explain.
Increasing the strength of the electric-type's hooves and horns is what gives
it the ability to crush rocks. So when that particular Mareep breeds with a
compatible pokemon, he will pass those traits onto his offspring.
- Dr. Narcos Arkture -
I scoured the rest of the papers inside the file for references to this 'master
plan' but found nothing.
* Must be hidden somewhere else in case this is found. *
I replaced everything, making sure to remember what was relevant, before
leaving the office.
* It's a good thing I have a photographic memory ... it's what made me such a
great asset to Verich. I have no qualms about using it against this sick man
... *
 
Murasaki, Monday, 12:15 (Goldenrod city) —
 
In my room I opened my pack and went through the hold items I had.
* Hmmm ... *
Kirlia already had the Choice band, so I let him keep it. Klefki got the Shell
bell, Magikarp got the Bright powder, and I gave Oddish the Amulet coin. Ash
was so attached to the Charcoal I'd given him earlier that I let him hold onto
it.
— — —
I picked up a Radio card from the Radio Tower here in Goldenrod, being told by
someone there it could be useful later on. I just hoped there'd be something
good to listen to at least once a day. In order to get said card I had to take
a quiz. Immediately after receiving the item (which I promptly put into a slot
on my Pokegear) Klefki spoke up.
(A girl wearing pink just left from here.)
"Uhhh ... why are you telling me this?" I hiss-whispered.
(Thought you should know. She was giving you an odd look when she left.)
I rolled my eyes.
"Like what?" I asked the same way as before.
(It is like she expects to see you again. You didn't 'feel' her?"
"No,"
As I was about to leave the woman who'd given me the card called out to me.
"Don't leave yet! You can get more features for the Radio card upstairs."
I ran a hand through my hair and sighed softly, making my way to the stairs
with directions from Klefki. This place was busy at the moment and all I wanted
to do was leave. The amount of people there were gave me a headache (due to all
the information I was getting) even with the Dowsers on.
* Either there are too many or my powers are growing again ... *
That actually happened a few years ago, the very reason I hadn't left to become
a trainer. It was so overwhelming to leave the house that I was stuck inside
for days while I became accustomed to the changes. Once I could only get images
thoughts and feelings by touching people and objects, but at that time I gained
the ability to do so within a certain distance. Places like this were hell on
me back then, and not much better now. I dreaded going into a department store,
something which I would inevitably have to do at some point.
Upstairs I talked to a woman with dark brown hair in order to get a Blue card,
which would allow me to participate in something called Buena's password.
Klefki was the only reason I knew that much about the woman. I thanked her and
left, putting the new card into the Pokegear as I did so.
— — —
I stood in front of a 'flashy looking' building, wondering how I'd gotten into
this situation.
* That's right, Klefki likes how it looks and wants me to check the place out.
Why did I agree to this? *
I could 'feel' so many emotions from the place that I was certain I wouldn't
last long in there without getting violently sick.
(You aren't backing out now are you?)
"No, but I'm doing this for you. If I get sick in there I will blame you for
it."
Inside there was a lot of talking and several sounds I didn't recognize.
* What the hell is this place? *
"Hello sir, welcome to the Goldenrod city Game corner. Can I get you anything?"
(He's wearing fancy clothes.)
I shrugged, deciding not to answer the key or the man.
There were a few minutes of silence before a hand landed on my arm.
"Sir let me at least get you started with something you can use here, it seems
like you're a little lost."
I grit my teeth and forced myself not to flinch or show any other reaction to
his touch. It was difficult though because there was skin-to-skin contact.
* Might havta buy some gloves or something if I havta touch people a lot
myself. This is getting ridiculous ... I can't deal with this much longer ... *
I pasted a smile on my face and nodded. The man went off somewhere for a bit,
leaving me alone. I bit my lip, removing the Dowsers, immediately feeling both
better and worse. A full-force shock wave of nausea hit me, or at least that's
what it felt like.
* A gambling den disguised as a pretty 'flashy' building great ... *
I could also 'feel' so many strong emotions here that I was sure the headache I
felt building in my temples would grow into a migraine soon.
* And again, why did I agree to this? *
The man came back before either of the side effects could get much worse. I
slipped the Dowsers into my pocket as I heard him approach. I knew it was him
due to the 'distinct' professional 'feel' to him.
* He touched me, so is that how things will be from now-on? These powers are
seriously more trouble than they're worth sometimes. *
"Sir?"
I shook my head, gripping Klefki's ring to anchor myself to the reality in
front of me. I almost felt lightheaded now.
* Is this 'cause of the Dowsers? Did they hold back too much ... *
"Yeah?" I finally managed to get out.
"Here sir, thought you would want this first,"
He handed me a bottle of water, which I opened and drank from with gusto.
"This is for you as well sir," the man said when I finished gulping down most
of the water.
A box (or rather a case with a latch Klefki informed me) was put into my hand.
I nodded in thanks, putting both items into my pack before making my exit.
(Why did you leave?)
"Oh what, you didn't notice how uncomfortable I was in there?"
(You ... seemed like you hated it there, but I thought you could handle it.)
"Well it turns out I couldn't. My ... skills were actin' up."
(Ah, I think I understand now. That's why you tensed up when he touched you?)
* You noticed that huh? *
"Yes," I grit out, my hands curling into fists at my sides.
(I am not insinuating you are weak, do not be angry with me for observing.)
I took a deep breath.
"Yeah I know ... sorry about that."
(As long as you mean it I accept.)
— — —
I walked into a building sometime later, having needed to calm down before
facing the fact I'd have to be around people again. I'd spent the minutes
training pokemon and devising strategies for future battles. I thought about
drawing for a while, but the idea of possibly picking up more to purge kept me
from doing so. I only had so much room in the notebook, something I'd havta
change soon.
* There has got to be a place I can buy more notebooks around here somewhere
... *
(There are less people inside here I bet.)
"Uh-huh, I'm holding you responsible if I get sick after going in there ..." I
muttered.
There were less emotions I could 'feel' from this place than the Game corner,
but I felt something familiar too.
* Oh hell no ... if she's here I so don't need to deal with her right now ... *
To my unfortunate luck, Lyra found me a few minutes later.
"Hi Murasaki,"
* What the hell do you want? *
"Hey," I said quietly, hoping she'd get the message and leave me alone.
No such luck.
"I have something for you!"
I ran a hand over the keys Klefki guarded, hoping the feel of the cool metal
would help me keep from hitting her.
* Why in the fuck does she have such an annoying high-pitched voice? *
"You ok?" she asked, a shock since she seemed pretty dull and unobservant to
me.
"Just been a long day."
"Already? Well, maybe this will make you feel better!"
She put a slim-looking box into my hands (or rather another case I found out as
I ran my fingers over it).
"What's this for?"
"It's a Fashion case,"
I listened (for once) as she talked about it. I was actually interested. At
first I thought she was giving it to me to insult me, since something like this
sounded so girly, but that wasn't the case. I could collect various items
called 'pokemon accessories' and use them to dress up my pokemon. This 'dress-
up' could be photographed all over Johto apparently. Normally I wouldn't care
about something like that, but knowing Momo she'd ask for pictures of my
pokemon at some point.
Finally the girl left, her Marill (which showed up during the discussion)
following her.
I sighed in relief when she was gone.
(You were listening to her this time, why are you ... exasperated?)
It seemed like he was hedging to me, not sure how to take my behavior at the
moment.
"No, she's just a handful no matter what she's talking about. I'm so glad I'm
not related to her ... I'd probably shoot myself if I was,"
(That's harsh,)
I shrugged. "It's the truth."
I climbed down some stairs to go deeper into the building once I was done
remarking on the girl. When I walked forward I was challenged to a battle.
There were three more of these before I got a break. Oddish was coming along
nicely, Magikarp leveling a bit from the battles as well. The items I gave them
were very useful, I was glad I'd taken the time to give them to the newcomers.
At this point Oddish was level 11 and Magikarp was level 10. I had a stronger
Magikarp I coulda trained, but that one I was saving to trade with Momo.
A man said he could take a picture of my team as I went past him. I stopped,
thinking about it for a moment.
* Why the fuck not? *
I smiled in the man's direction and said "sure." He handed me a stack of
clothing to wear and pushed me into a small room, telling me not to come out
until I'd changed into the outfit. I grumbled in annoyance, but figured going
along with it would make things much easier.
After I was changed I came back out.
"Good! That looks great on you."
I shrugged, not really caring.
"Bring out your team and let's get a picture,"
I let everyone out, cradling the egg in my arms as the pokemon crowded around
me.
"Isn't there a fifth pokemon? Most trainers have six ..."
I rubbed my neck and dug my nails into skin to keep from yelling at him. His
enthusiasm was starting to grate on my already shot control.
"There are five, the keys around my neck are a steel-type, Klefki,"
"Ah, just wanted to make sure before I took the picture."
* Sure you did, *
(He seems very ... happy about doing this, but isn't messing with you. Give it
a rest,)
I snorted, not answering him.
"Say Togepi,"
* Huh? *
I smiled the best I could, but absolutely refused to say something. The concept
seemed stupid to me. Why say something when the idea is to 'smile' anyway? The
man told me I could view the photo in my pc.
I asked him about the 'togepi' he'd mentioned.
"Oh that, Togepi's a pokemon that's said to be happy all the time ..."
I thought for a moment, getting a strange idea. I pulled out my notebook and a
pencil, turning to a blank page before drawing Troy. The pokemon did seem
unusually happy to me.
"Is this one?" I asked when I was finished.
"Yes! That's exactly what they look like,"
After chatting about how 'good' my drawing skills were the man mentioned there
were vendors in this place. He called said place the 'goldenrod underground.'
There were supposed to be a pair of brothers who could give pokemon hair cuts
here sometimes, and also a woman who sold herbs. The man confirmed my
suspicions that the herbs were Revival, Heal, Energy powder, and Energy root. I
thanked him for the picture and the information, changing back into my own
clothes before leaving.
(You do know that was a Team rocket uniform he gave you to wear don't you?)
— — —
Sadly the next place I went was the Department store. It was the only store I
could buy supplies for my journey in Goldenrod, so I had no choice. I was lucky
though, it being early afternoon the overly large store wasn't as crowded as it
could have been. I honestly expected it to be much louder and to feel nauseous
at least, but it wasn't so bad, 'this time.'
I sold 3 Tiny mushroom, 1 Star piece, 2 Rare candies, 4 Potions, 2 Repel, 1 X
attack, and 2 Ether. The male clerk behind the counter handed me some money and
I moved out of the way to count it. After touching each bill individually, I
figured out I'd made 13650 poke dollars from selling all that stuff.
* And this won't go to the account Momo set up, which is good since I need more
supplies. *
I bought 9 Poke balls, 1 Ultra ball, 1 Escape rope, 1 Hyper potion, 2 Full
heal, and tm 17 Protect. I put all the items away before moving on.
Klefki told me a man was staring at me before I could leave the floor I'd
bought the tm from (floor 5). I sighed, making my way over to the man (which
Klefki informed me was very fat) to find out what he wanted.
"Do you have a Drowzee? I'd be happy to trade my Machop for it."
I thought for a moment, wondering what help this 'machop' would be.
The man must have seen something on my face he took as hesitance because he
started talking again.
"Pleeease! Machop is a fighting type and mine's a girl,"
* That changes things ... *
I smiled a little.
"Ok you have yourself a deal,"
I started to leave and the man panicked, shuffling (he must have been really
really fat) to stand in front of me.
"Don't go!"
I rolled my eyes.
"I have to get the Drowzee from the pc,"
"Oh," the man said in relief.
* Calm down man ... *
I switched out Magikarp for Drowzee at the 'center (healing Oddish since I was
there anyway) and came back. I stood there for a moment as the man waddled
over.
"You got it?"
I nodded, not feeling like talking to him again. The trade was made and I found
out the guy had named the Machop Muscle and she was level 13.
* Fitting I suppose ... *
I checked to see if she came with an item, removing it (a Macho brace) to look
at later.
The next thing I did was go up to the sixth floor. I bought a lottery ticket on
that floor, winning tm 65 Shadow claw as a prize. The lady behind the counter
told me they were rare (berries were the usual prizes) so I was glad I'd gotten
it. I thought I might as well ask about where to buy notebooks, the lady
telling me she'd sell me three for 100 poke dollars. I paid for those and
Klefki told me what else was up here.
It turned out there was a vending machine selling drinks. I could buy Fresh
water, Soda pop, or Lemonade. Fresh water healed 50 hp, Soda pop healed 60 hp,
and Lemonade healed 80 hp. Naturally I bought some Lemonade, it healed even
more than a Super potion. It was cheaper too. I picked up 6 Lemonade for 2100
poke dollars, which was half of what I'd pay for the same number of Super
potions. Once I'd bought those I stepped into the elevator.
 
Silver, Monday, 15:00 (Goldenrod city) —
 
That morning I'd trained like crazy, catching and evolving whatever I could.
Oddish became Gloom, Caterpie became Butterfree, Paras became Parasect,
Sandshrew became Sandslash, and Abra became Kadabra. I didn't feel like
evolving (or training) Magikarp, Drowzee, Krabby, or Zubat right now. I'd
caught the new additions along the way, the grass and bug types in the forest,
the water-types and psychic types on Route 34.
My team consisted of Sneasel, Croconaw, Sandslash, Gloom, Gastly, and Kadabra
when I faced Whitney a short time later. The battle was tough (her normal types
being resistant to most of my attacks to some degree) but I did manage to win.
It was a very good thing some of my pokemon were female since she tended to use
Attract a lot.
— — —
I looked around before approaching a librarian. I'd decided to research what
Murasaki had mentioned. I asked the woman about books on psychic powers (which
would probably sound like a gimick here in Johto) and she pointed me in the
right direction.
I'd heard stories about a gym leader in Kanto who was a Psychic, but was
skeptical. Just because she used psychic-type pokemon did not mean she was
Psychic herself.
* And what does that say about Murasaki? He only has one psychic pokemon for
all I know, so that idea's out. *
Thankfully there was a book on 'all things psychic with humans.' There was
indeed a definition for "psychometry" which is what I was pretty sure Murasaki
was referring to. I flipped to the chapter (yes there was an entire chapter on
it) and started reading.
- psychometry -
Let me start by describing what Psychometry means. Typically people think of
Psychometry as 'touching an object and knowing what happened to the person it
belonged to.' This is often not the case, the information one with this ability
gains from touching an object can be much more abstract. Sometimes they only
get feelings or impressions from an object. To say one 'gets visions of
someone's last moments of life by touching a possession' is also false. It can
happen, but that is not usually how Psychometry works.
What does typically happen is that a person with the ability will get
impressions or feelings when they touch something. If they are lucky they may
even get thoughts, or 'feel' what the last person who owned or touched the
object felt. In worse cases (such as the owner or last person to touch the
object dying horribly or being injured) the person with Psychometry may even
develop behaviors or the same injuries. These are the worse case scenarios
however.
Some with the ability can view memories from an object. Say a person died
horribly, the Psychometric may be able to see how they died. This often times
has a limit however, the memories fade after 52 hours. You would think
something of this magnitude would help in police work, but most of the time
Psychometrics who can view memories don't get into that field. People tend to
be skeptical and 'not believe' they can do what they can.
The most powerful (or extremely sensitive) are said to be able to walk into an
area and tell what is there (objects and people) while picking up stray
thoughts attached to the objects and people. When a Psychometric has prolonged
contact with a person or an object they can get more from them, but the
'stronger and more sensitive' get a lot more. One could touch a person and read
their thoughts, but not control what they get. In a way they only get what
thoughts are on the surface, unable to dig deep enough to get 'dirty secrets'
in most cases.
When it comes to getting information from people (in its various forms
depending on the particular Psychometric) they usually have a range. Typically
this range is between 15 and 20 feet, if they get anything without touch at
all.
- remember -
The thing that stands out the most when it comes to a Psychometric is that
their powers work with touch. They get information, their powers cannot
typically harm others on principal. They are not like a Telekinetic Psychic
(which is what most people think of when they hear the word "psychic") who can
move things with their mind.
After reading about that I checked to see if there was anything about
abductions in the newspaper archives. Unfortunately there wasn't, at least
nothing within the time period I wanted. The papers were all local as well,
something I was expecting.
* I at least hoped to find a few from other cities ... *
I had skills with hacking though: once I had a computer I could do a more
comprehensive search. I'd even hacked police records when I was still with Team
R, getting the information I wanted should be easy.
I left the library (not trusting to not be noticed there whilst hacking) and
located an electronics store. I bought a laptop (along with a case for it) and
went back to my room in the Pokemon center. After I opened and installed a few
programs I'd need, I brought up the internet and started searching.
To start with I typed in "abductions goldenrod 12 years ago" and pressed Enter.
I was pretty sure that was the wrong line of questioning, but it didn't hurt to
try. There was nothing. I erased "goldenrod" and replaced it with "azalea
town." Still nothing. Violet city was next. There was nothing there either.
* I thought there would at least be a reference to abductions in Violet city
since it's the closest 'big city' near New bark town. *
Cherrygrove was next. There was nothing there either.
* I'm starting to wonder if he didn't just tell me to look this up to push me
away. He seemed pretty fucked-up when he left yesterday ... *
When I typed in New bark town I got a few matches. Apparently a child had been
'abducted' from his home around the time Murasaki mentioned. There was an
entire article on the event, the writer commenting on how 'tragic it was.' Not
that I didn't think it was, but the writer exaggerated way too much in my
opinion.
There was a picture of the child, and I had to do a double take when I saw it.
* That has to be him. *
The kid had blue-violet eyes, white hair, and almost unnaturally white skin,
but still looked like Murasaki.
* This must be what he looked like once ... *
Though some of the features were different, others were exactly the same.
According to the story, the kid went missing for 5 years and was finally found
by his father near the outskirts of New bark town. The child looked odd in the
'found ag' picture, resembling the Murasaki I knew now a lot more than the
first photo.
"Mr. Jeigar and his son Murasaki." was written underneath the photo.
The man had blonde hair and aristocratic features, looking almost nothing like
his son.
* Maybe he was adopted? Or he could have gotten his looks from his mom ... *
* If this really is him (and if it isn't it's a cleverly-done joke) then he's
... been tortured probably. Is that why he's afraid of being with me? No, it
most likely has something to do with Psychometry. Even if he has the weaker
version, people would think he's crazy if he advertized it. Hell, I think it's
a little crazy myself. *
* He was telling the truth though. Like he said: what reason does he have to
lie? He has nothing to gain from it. Would it really bother me if all this was
true? If he were ... a Psychometric and had been abducted? *
* I'm not really sure what to think. Maybe if I asked him some questions, see
if he can show me what he can do with those ... abilities of his. But if he was
abducted what happened during that time? Might not be smart to ask right away.
He told me to look, but he probably thought I wanted evidence to back up his
story when (or if) he finally tells me everything. *
— — —
Kimi called as I was shutting down the laptop.
"Yeah?" I asked, hoping she had something at least.
"I got something! There are three articles you should look at. All three talk
about abductions around 12 years ago."
I sighed in relief, closing the lid of the computer.
"What are they about?"
"Well, one child was part of what the article calls the 'changeling project.'"
"Changeling?"
"Yup. Changelings are people who can turn into pokemon."
I groaned, she was having a field day with that one I was sure.
"What about the others?"
"Another kid was part of the 'pokemorph project.' And before you ask:
Pokemorphs are humans with pokemon DNA and features."
There was some shuffling before she continued.
"The last kid was from 'project alpha' an operation with something called
'cyphr."
"Cyphr?"
"Sorry Silver, haven't been able to find out much about it. All I know is
that's an organization Team R worked with once."
I hummed a little.
"Is there anything else?"
A sigh. "Nothing I haven't already told you about. I'll put the articles and
the scanned stuff from Proton's office onto a computer chip and send them to
you."
I made an affirming noise.
"I should use the contact you gave me? I mean it's still good?"
"Yeah that's fine,"
"Got it, I'll get everything together and you should have it by late tomorrow
morning or early afternoon."
"Kimi,"
"Yeah?"
"Thanks for doing this."
"No problem Silver. Hell, if I could, I'd work for you instead of that green-
haired lunatic."
I laughed and then hung up.
 
Murasaki, department store elevator, 15:15 (Goldenrod city) —
 
Klefki told me there was a button for a floor I hadn't visited yet, so I pushed
it. Apparently it would take me to the basement. I could have figured out the
buttons myself, but having him help here was a good idea. The elevator wouldn't
wait forever, and it would have taken me a while to go through all the buttons
with as many floors as there were.
When I stepped out of the elevator I heard a lot of noise.
* What's going on down here? *
The sounds weren't as loud as things were in the Game corner thankfully.
(There are strong-looking pokemon moving boxes here,)
I went up to a person (who I could 'feel' from my place near the elevator) and
asked him what was going on. After he finished telling me he told one of the
pokemon (a Machoke he said) to move things out of the way for us. I was
confused at first, but after I found the items I understood. I picked up an
Ultra ball, an Ether, and a Burn heal from the floor before going back
upstairs. I sold the Ether then left the store.
— — —
Once outside I used the map to see if there were any more places I needed to
visit. There was a Bike shop in town, so I went there next. After talking to a
very skinny man (Klefki's info) I got a nice and shiny new bike. Klefki
informed me it was green, which was fine with me.
I got on the bike after exiting the shop. Ash ran off and came back with a
Super potion before I got very far.
(There might be something to do at the Game corner, you should go back.)
"Are you fuckin' crazy?"
(It is the middle of the afternoon. If I wanted to gamble, I'd do it in the
early morning or at night,)
I bit my lip.
"You have a point, but if I feel sick again I am leaving."
(Fair enough.)
I rode back to the Game corner, pulling out Blitz' ball and tossing it in the
air. I could 'feel' his curiosity as I put the ball back on my belt.
"Think you can watch the bike and make sure no one steals it?"
(He says he can do that.)
I rubbed Kirlia's shoulder.
"I'll try not to be in there too long."
— — —
Inside it wasn't so bad. In fact, compared to last time, it seemed almost
empty. I made my way over to one of the counters, asking for what I could get
here as a prize. There was an awfully long list, which I was grateful for. If
this place was here, there should at least be prizes.
The man who'd given me the Coin case before came up to me again.
"Going to play?"
"Yeah,"
"We just opened up a slot machine this morning. It was damaged, but it's fixed
now. You can also earn coins by playing the Voltorb flip game sir,"
"Thanks,"
The Voltorb flip game was fun, but didn't give many coins. I used the little I
won from there on the Slot machine, managing to win two jackpots. Each one gave
me 9000 coins. It took a while to get that though, and by the time I did, I was
pretty much ready to go. I walked up to the counter to exchange the coins for
prizes first.
I bought tm 13 Ice beam, a Wide lens, and the pokemon Dratini. I was excited
about the tm, Momo'd told me how great it was before. Dratini was also a nice
prize. A pretty rare pokemon anyway, it was the first dragon-type I owned. The
Wide lens would come in handy as well since it increased the accuracy of a
pokemon's moves. I planned to give it to Gastly later. After putting everything
away (catching Dratini in a poke ball first) I left. Of course, the ball went
straight to the pc, since I had too many pokemon with me to carry it.
I remembered that the clerk said the Dratini was lv 15 as I came out of the
'corner. Blitz was very happy to see me. I gave him a short hug before sending
him back into his ball. I put the ball away and got back on the bike, riding
back to the 'center.
— — —
After I stashed my bike in a safe place behind the 'center, I went inside and
called Momo.
"Hello?"
"Hey sis,"
"Oh hey 'bro! What's up?"
I smiled.
"I have some water pokemon for you."
"How many and what are they?"
"Magikarp, Krabby, and Slowpoke."
"Hmmm, which one should I pick?"
"Sis?"
"Yeah?"
"I also caught another pokemon I thought you might want."
"What is it?"
"Ditto."
There was loud squealing on the other end and I had to move the Pokegear away
from me so I didn't go deaf.
"You found ... a Ditto?!"
I chuckled. "I found two actually. Just caught one for you."
"You are so awesome 'bro. I'll take that for now."
"Ok."
"You know what you want for it?"
"You got any fighting types right now?"
"Was hoping you'd ask that. Just got one from a friend actually ... How does a
Riolu sound?"
Now it was my turn to get excited. Of course I'd heard the stories about Riolu
and Lucario, but the one about Sir Aaron stuck out more than any of the others
in my mind. What would it be like to have a pokemon that loyal? The fact that
it was a fighting type (well, Riolu and Lucario both were) was a huge bonus.
Regardless of my preference in types, I really needed fighting type pokemon for
the Goldenrod gym. I'd heard a trainer mention Whitney (the gym leader) used
normal types.
"'bro?"
"Sorry sis. You've got your thing with Ditto and I've got mine with Riolu and
Lucario."
"Thinkin' about the Sir Aaron story?"
"Yep,"
"Well I wish you the best of luck with your new Riolu then. It came in a Luxury
ball, so it should evolve faster."
"Glad to hear it."
A few minutes later we'd made the trade. Momo was gushing about the 'cute
squishy pink pokemon' and I was just happy to have another fighting type — one
I'd always wanted. I let out the emanation pokemon, it sniffing me for a moment
before it came over. I heard a cute little growl, before I had an armful of
Riolu.
"Gonna call you Aerron."
I started up the pc and went through what pokemon I had, trying to figure out
what would be the best team to fight against Whitney. I didn't know much about
her battle style other than that she used normal types. I kept Riolu with me,
as well as Quilava, Klefki, and Machop. The last pokemon I grabbed was Gastly,
switching him with Oddish.
Back on Route 34 I caught another Drowzee. Since wild pokemon were at least
level 10 here, it was the best place to train. Machop and Riolu were who I'd
focus on first, since they would be the most useful in the gym battle.
I got Machop to level 20. She now knew Karate chop, Seismic toss, and Revenge.
I planned on bringing everyone up to level 25 before the gym battle, but I'd
work on the non-fighting types last.
Riolu was next up for training. He was lv 15 and knew a few decent moves, so
training wasn't that bad. He knew the moves Quick attack, Force palm, Mind
reader, and Hi jump kick when I first got him. After a while he made it to lv
20 and started to evolve. Normally this would have been impossible (Riolu's
evolution depended on how much happiness it had) but with the Luxury ball the
process had been sped up. I smiled as I 'felt' his feelings disappear from my
psychometric 'sight.'
* You worked hard, you've earned this. *
A few minutes later a hand (or maybe something else) was placed on my shoulder.
I blinked, not having expected it.
(Aerron is tall enough to touch your shoulder now.)
* Must be him then ... *
I smiled and ran a hand over what I hoped was the pokemons' neck.
It was.
(He really seems to like you. Can you 'feel' him?)
I thought for a moment, not getting anything immediately. Then all of a sudden
a rush of something (I had no idea what) washed over my psycho-senses.
* That was a rush ... *
I almost felt lightheaded as I pulled the fighting-steel type against me.
* Is this ... aura maybe? *
(He says you are feeling his aura. He is glad to have been put with someone who
can sense it.)
* Huh, I was right. *
The rest of the time on Route 34 was spent getting everyone to lv 25. Gastly
was the last one I worked with. When he reached lv 25 he evolved. I chuckled as
a ghostly body wrapped around my arm.
* He's purple now ... *
I went through the hold items again, seeing what would be best for the pokemon
I currently had. Quilava and Klefki kept their items, the Shell bell and
Charcoal would serve them well. I gave the Amulet coin to Machop, Lucario got
the Lucky egg, and Haunter received the Wide lens. This last item would be
particularly useful since I planned to make use of his Hypnosis. I could have
bought another X accuracy, but I really didn't feel like wasting the money when
I had a hold item that could do the same thing.
After everyone was level 25 I went to heal them at the 'center. My next
destination was the gym. There were four trainers to fight, each one going down
pretty easily. I was particularly impressed with Aerron's progress, but knew he
needed a few new moves. After the last battle I healed the pokemon and then
came back to the gym. I then taught Aerron Return and Shadow claw.
— — —
"Murasaki of New bark versus Leader Whitney, begin!" said the referee.
I smirked slightly, taking Muscle's ball from my belt.
"What are you smirking at?"
"Nothin' much,"
"Oh shut up! Let's battle!"
I shrugged. "Fine by me."
"Go! Clefairy!"
"You're up Machop."
"Good a male ..."
* Think again bitch ... *
* * * *
"Attract,"
* You have gotta be kiddin' me ... *
"Seismic toss,"
The attack hit hard, the normal types' not doing anything. I figured the lady
was so shocked that her favorite attack failed she forgot to issue any
commands.
* That's gonna cost ya ... *
"Vital throw,"
"Sing,"
"Dodge,"
When her attack finally landed, the Clefairy cried out in pain — then fainted.
* * * *
"So you took down my first pink beauty, you won't do it again! Go Miltank!"
The referee had nothing to say, staying silent.
"Alright. You're up Ash."
He came up to me and nudged my leg affectionately. When he stiffened I was a
little worried.
(He's glaring at the girl right now. He says the color she wears — pink — is
offensive and too bright ...)
I had to chuckle at that, it was just too funny.
* * * *
"I'LL TEACH YOU to LAUGH AT ME! ROLLOUT!"
* Does she havta yell ... *
I sighed, not wanting to deal with this stupid girl.
* How did she become the leader of a gym? Actually it's probably better if I
don't know. *
"Dodge,"
Unfortunately I'd taken too long thinking and Ash was hit. I winced as I felt
his pain as clear as I'd feel my own.
* Shit ... *
"Flame wheel!"
The fire-tackle hit its target, but didn't seem to do all that much. The flames
crackled enough that I could tell he'd connected at least.
* Another couple of those should do it ... *
"You're little mouse is so gonna lose."
"Why's that?" I asked, mentally going through his moves.
"Miltank's too strong,"
* I'll believe that when I see it. *
Several minutes later Quilava was knocked out on the gym floor.
* Damnit! I thought I had this all figured out ... and it cost him ... *
* * * *
"I told ya so," Whitney said as I withdrew Ash.
I bit my tongue just barely, so tempted to either yell at her or do something
... more physical.
"Aerron it's your turn,"
The Lucario appeared and put a paw on my arm. I shivered slightly as I felt his
mood, dark and definitely ready for a fight.
* He cares that much? I never thought I'd see this from a pokemon ... *
(He really wants to kill her. I think he cares about all of us, but takes it
personally if someone insults you.)
* You're probably right, *
* * * *
"Return,"
"Hah, that won't do much! Rollout!"
* He's faster than he looks ... *
And Aerron proved that by dodging not only the first Rollout, but all the ones
she ordered, which turned out to be a lot.
Thankfully his Return got through, it was hard to hit the stupid thing while it
was rolling. He was really fast, but even with that there was still the problem
of the things' speed during Rollout. I could definitely understand why she was
using it since I'd done the same with Sandslash during my battle with Silver,
but I expected more from a gym leader. It was especially disappointing since
she was the third one. If she had been the first I might not have been so
disappointed.
* I think Falkner's Pidgeotto was harder to fight than this thing. The only
reason it's still conscious is because it's hard to hit. It's not doing any
damage at the moment though ... *
A positively evil smirk slid onto my face as I came up with a plan.
"Mind reader, Hi jump kick,"
"Hahaha! That is never going to work. All you'll do is hurt yourself."
"Why don't you watch your opponent instead of making fun of them,"
I didn't care what she said to that, I was sure that was why she would lose.
Well that, and her absolute lack of creativity.
The jumping kick slammed into the cow-pokemon so hard it stopped rolling.
(It's almost down. That was brilliant by the way.)
I shrugged.
"What the hell!? Use Milk drink!"
* I don't remember what that one does ... *
I felt a spike of irritation from Aerron and was pretty sure I knew. Klefki
confirmed my suspicions.
(It just healed itself,)
* I was hoping I was wrong about that ... *
"Return, Hi jump kick,"
This was of course the command for a barrage. I wouldn't normally have ordered
something so risky, but we'd practiced this enough times that I was confident
in his ability to execute the attacks for a long period of time. With his speed
at least half of those would hit, and if it was the right one, she would lose
her second pokemon.
I was right, he could handle it. In five minutes flat the cow was down for the
count.
"H-how did this happen! I can't lose!"
* Serves you right ... *
* * * *
"Leader you still have one more pokemon. Remember that Jigglypuff you just
evolved?" the referee said.
The pink-wearing leader was currently crying.
* If you have another pokemon send it out so I can get out of here. All this
anger and insulting is going to get to me soon ... and I might get violent. *
That was one thing nobody would want. When I lost control of myself due to what
I 'felt' from people, it was especially bad. My background in martial arts
would just make things worse. All the teaching of only using them for self-
defense would do no good if I got started.
* Shut the fuck up and let's finish this ... *
After several minutes of the referee trying to get the girl to battle we were
finally going to continue.
"Wigglytuff go!"
Since Quilava was knocked out I let Aerron stay out for now.
"Joker you're up!"
"Joker?" Whitney asked.
* Don't ask me anything right now you whiny bitch ... *
"Haunter," I forced myself to say as the ghost wrapped himself around me before
floating off to fight.
* * * *
"Curse,"
"What will that do? Double-slap!"
* You're a gym leader lady, don't ya know normal-type moves won't work on a
ghost-type? *
(That was hilarious.)
I groaned as I heard a loud thud.
(It just hurt itself by trying to lunge at Joker. Of course it didn't work so
it just fell.)
I chuckled.
"Shut the hell up! Thunder bolt!"
* It's time to put that item to use ... *
"Hypnosis,"
I cringed as I heard the electricity, not sure what happened.
(He was just a little too slow. The thing's asleep now, but he took a lot of
damage.)
* Sorry about that buddy ... *
I gave the signal and the referee stopped the round.
* * * *
"What the helllll?" Whitney whined.
"Challengers can switch out their pokemon," was all I said as I returned
Haunter to his ball.
* You did well Joker ... *
"That's cheating!"
"It's perfectly legal," the referee responded.
"WHO THE HELL ASKED YOU?!"
* Geez, you on your period or something? *
"What-ever. Send out your next one so I can beat it up!"
"You're lookin' at him,"
"Huh?"
"Aerron take the last round,"
* * * *
"Mind reader, Hi jump kick."
Saying it that way meant to use the two-move combo only once.
* Hers' won't last long ... *
(Hah, the pink thing keeps taking damage from Joker's Curse,)
* Even better, *
"Attack now,"
The pokemon was already on the ground, but it was slammed hard into it again.
(It is stuck in a giant hole.)
"Is it down?" I asked, not caring if the bitch heard.
(You tell me, I can't see it from here,)
I used my powers, touching the ground to get more information. What I found
made me chuckle. It was exactly as Klefki had said, and the thing had fainted
on impact from what I could tell.
* * * *
Reluctantly (and with lots of coaxing from the referee) Whitney gave me the
badge and tm 45 Attract.
* Well the tm's pretty useless, but I'll keep it anyway. *
"You won, now get out of my gym!"
"You need to give him his prize money leader," said the referee.
"Fine!"
The girl stomped off somewhere. I hugged Aerron tightly, worried I'd attack
someone now. The constant spikes in her mood were seriously testing my control.
And with the increase in power I'd been experiencing lately I could explode any
minute now.
Eventually the girl stomped back in, shoving some money into my hand. Half went
to the account when I put it into my pocket. I didn't even care how much as I
left, Aerron staying close to me.
— — —
The egg shook like crazy as I tried to make it to the 'center. Aerron put a
hand on my neck and growled loudly, almost making me deaf.
(I'll talk to him, you take care of the egg,)
I nodded dumbly, sliding the straps off my shoulders and lowering the pack to
the ground.
I grimaced as Lucario marched off, hearing a tree branch snap somewhere nearby.
(I told him to take something apart. He wanted to go back and rip that girl to
shreds.)
"Why?"
(He sees what 'feeling' her did to you and wants retribution.)
"Huh," I said in slight awe as I pulled the blanketed egg from the pack.
(He cares so much about you. I think he may even ...)
"Even what?" I asked a little dazedly as I removed the egg from its protective
blanket.
(He may even be in love with you. Sorry, it's not something humans in my
experience accept.)
I wasn't sure how to take that so I just ignored it. The egg shook violently as
I tried to hold it against my chest. Just when I thought I'd drop it a pair of
arms wrapped around me from behind and a furry head was laid on my shoulder.
* No matter how I feel about it, I think you're right about him ... *
A few minutes later the egg hatched. Somehow having Aerron there must have
helped because I could hold onto it once he came back from 'destroying
something.' I suspected he'd chosen a tree for that. I almost felt bad for the
tree, he'd gotten so strong and fast since I received his poke ball that the
tree was probably a pile of splinters at this point.
A cute little noise greeted me as I gently extracted shells from the baby's
fur.
"Chim chimchar!"
(At least this one says its name right away.)
* Yeah that is nice ... *
"How does Coal sound for a name little guy?"
A happy call was my answer.
***** chapter 7 *****
* * * VII * * *
- Lots of New Friends and Training -
 
Murasaki, Monday, 20:05 (Goldenrod city) —
 
I healed everyone and then stood there for a moment, not sure what to do next.
Klefki helped me out.
(There is a shop ... or rather building you haven't visited yet.)
"Lead the way,"
(It is odd, it is definitely a house, but it looks like a shop.)
I shrugged, taking only a moment to decide whether I should go in or not. I
chose to go in.
(There are flower displays here and also a girl behind a counter.)
I walked up to the counter.
"What is this place?"
"We sell bouquets and anything a person might need to care for flowers."
* Sounds like a place Momo would hate. *
Despite being a girl, she didn't care for flowers.
I smiled a little in the girl's direction.
"I'll make sure to come back here if I find anyone who needs some flowers."
"Excellent! Here, take this Squirtbottle. It's a free gift!"
I almost winced at the sound of her voice but just managed not to.
"Thanks," I said, putting it away.
Immediately after I exited through the door, Aerron popped out of his ball. The
laser-like sound was followed by a soft growl.
I smiled. "You can stay out if you want, just try not to attack people who look
at me funny. If they insult me and have a pokemon out we'll see though,"
(He says that is agreeable, but he would defend you no matter what.)
* Hell, this is both awesome and just a little scary ... *
I went back to the 'center and switched Haunter with Magikarp. I'd be moving on
to the next city tonight and wanted to evolve it. After doing that I found
myself in the department store again. It was very busy, so I planned to buy
what I needed and get out fast. I bought 2 Great balls and 2 Ultra balls before
leaving.
— — —
I was inside the northern gatehouse, ready to continue to the next area, when a
voice called out.
"Hey can you do something for me?"
* Do I look like an errand boy to you? *
Out loud I asked:
"Like what?"
"Can you take my Spearow to Violet city and make sure a friend of mine gets the
mail he's carrying?"
I thought for a moment and then shrugged. After checking the map I figured it
wouldn't hurt to do so, it was on the way after all.
"Sure. Who am I lookin' for?"
"A man on Route 31. He'll be near an apricorn tree."
The flapping of wings startled me.
"Sorry about that. He hates poke balls and it's easier if he just flies around
behind you."
I shrugged, I wasn't going to argue with that.
"It will follow me right?"
"He will since I told him he'd go with whoever I could find to take him."
* This better be worth it. *
— — —
On Route 35 (the next area) there was a lot to do. I could 'feel' that there
were a lot of people here, just not all in one place.
* Thank Arceus for that ... *
Aerron must have sensed something because he moved closer to me, a calming
presence.
* Thanks Aerron ... *
I caught a Nidoran M, a Nidoran F, and 2 Poliwag fairly quickly. I'd used the
Old rod to get the water types. The Pokedex said Yanma were around here, but I
hadn't encountered one yet. Instead of walking around and waiting for one to
show up I let Chimchar out of his ball and gave him the Lucky egg Lucario was
holding.
I trained him to lv 6 before finding a Yanma. I made sure not to knock it out
as I battled it, definitely wanting it now that I knew it was rare (at least
around here). After catching it I started to move forward along the route,
taking on the first trainer, which was a female Picnicker.
(There is a man with a camera off to the side here,)
I smiled a little, a picture of Chimchar was in order. Since she'd sent it to
me, I was pretty sure Momo would want to see Chimchar. After getting a photo
taken I thanked the man and kept going. I hadn't found any 'accessories' yet,
but I'd work on that later.
I faced trainer after trainer, wondering when it would end.
* Is there an endless supply of them here? *
What felt like hours later I finally defeated the last one. Magikarp had just
evolved, so I was happy about that. At this point, he was my strongest water
type. Chimchar had also leveled some as well, being lv 11 now.
I found a Paralyze heal and tm 66 Payback on the route. Payback was a dark type
move with a 50 base power, but that was doubled if the opponent's attack struck
first. I wasn't sure who I'd give it to just yet, but was sure it would come in
handy later. After getting Chimchar to lv 12 I walked back to the 'center to
heal.
I switched Machop with Oddish before going out again. I wanted to evolve her
into Gloom as soon as I could. At this point she seemed to be my strongest
grass-type. Even though grass types weren't my favorite, I thought it would be
a good idea to have a decently leveled one just in case. If I was going to
catch most of the pokemon in the Pokedex anyway, why not take advantage of it?
— — —
I was back where I'd left off at before. Klefki told me there was a gatehouse
nearby, so I went in. The Spearow flapped in behind me, Ash walked in front of
me, and Aerron walked beside me. His was more of a glide actually, the long
hours of training I'd given him (and whatever he'd had before) giving him
graceful movements none of my other pokemon could match.
* Whoever Momo got him from must have trained him well ... either that or he
was caught in the wild and already knew how to fight by experience ... *
Either way I was grateful to have him.
(There are two exits here.)
The map told me one went toward the National park and the other went somewhere
else. I chose the unknown exit, going out that way. As I exited the building a
man came up to me. A happy "Poliwrath!" accompanied his arrival.
* Never heard of that pokemon before ... *
I pulled out my Pokedex and looked it up. Apparently it was one of two final
evolutions available for Poliwag. I put the Pokedex away just as the man began
to speak. He had something he wanted to show me, so I followed, waving vaguely
for the bird flapping around to follow me.
(We're in front of a building so large I can't see the top.)
The man stopped walking and turned to me. He introduced himself as Magnus, the
founder of something called the Pokeathlon. He explained what those were when I
asked thankfully. After explaining the concept to me (which sounded a lot like
the Pokemon contests Momo participated in back in Hoenn) he and his water type
left.
I tried checking the Pokeathlon stats of all my pokemon like Magnus mentioned I
should, but couldn't make heads or tails of how the 'stats' worked. There was
"Speed," "Power," "Skill," "Stamina" and "Jump" (which I understood as traits
they would use in the competitions). What was puzzling to me was how they were
distributed to each pokemon. Some of mine had higher Jump than others, for
instance, which made sense if they were a higher level. I had a few lower-level
pokemon with very high stats in one area and low in another. Instead of trying
to puzzle it out any further I made my way toward the building to go inside.
* Maybe someone can explain it to me inside ... *
Before I could go in though Klefki stopped me.
(There is a strange ... thing I want you to check out.)
"Can't you look at it from here?"
(It's too far away ...)
I sighed. "Alright, tell me where it is."
He gave me directions and I went over to examine the 'thing' he mentioned.
As I approached the object, a man came up to me. He said it was some sort of
statue, but what kind of statue was a bunch of tubes? After chatting for a bit
he gave me an Apriblender, saying it could be used to make shakes to enhance a
pokemon's Pokeathlon stats. I put a pnk apricorn and a blk apricorn in the
blender and started it up. After the drink was finished, I gave it to Lucario,
who drank it down quickly.
* Wonder what stats that was supposed to help with? I'll figure it out later. *
Once the drink was gone I walked through the doors into the building. A
familiar voice greeted me as I stopped for a moment to try and 'feel' how many
people were in here. There were too many for me to count, but at least they
weren't all in the room I'd just entered.
* What is the bitch doing here? *
"How's it going?" Whitney asked.
I shrugged, not wanting to answer. If I did, she might start yelling again.
Aerron growled and stepped in front of me, ready for the kill.
"Stand down, let's see what she has to say first,"
At the very least this would let me stall the inevitable conflict, I'd barely
come out of the last one sane.
"S-sorry, about before. I wasn't feeling well and took it out on everyone. Even
my best friend was annoyed with me."
I blinked.
* You actually have friends? *
"The referee, Kaylyn, is who I was talking about,"
* Oh ok then ... *
The next few minutes were a little awkward, I had no idea how to act around
this seemingly bipolar lady. She'd been so volatile before I would've welcomed
a spar or something (before things got really bad at the end of the gym battle)
and now she was mellow and friendly. People like that already made me feel
uneasy.
* I can handle this, at least she's not insulting me and yelling constantly. *
When she left I was relieved.
* She did tell me some about how the Pokeathlon works, so I gotta thank her for
that later ... *
"here, you'll need this," Whitney said as she came back.
* Need what? *
A stack of clothing was put into my hands.
I must have seemed confused, because she started explaining again.
"That's an Athletic outfit. They won't let you compete unless you have one.
There are stores where you can buy more in different colors if you want."
(This one is dark green with white stripes going down the sides of the shorts.)
I smiled a little.
"Thanks for everything Whitney,"
"No problem, I'll see you around Murasaki,"
And with that she left again.
Klefki pointed out a bench where I could sit down and think.
* Should I try out these competitions? They could be fun, and maybe there are
prizes for winning ... *
After a while I got up and moved around the room, finally stopping at a
counter.
"This is where the prizes are kept." a woman said.
"What can I get for winning?"
"I think what you should be asking is: what can I get today? The prizes are
different each day."
"So what do you have for today then?"
"Today we have Red Apricorns for 200 P, Blue Apricorns for 200 P, Green
Apricorns for 200 P, Moomoo Milk for 100 P, Moon Stones for 3000 P, and Rare
Candies for 2000 P."
* I will need at least two Moon stones if I remember how Nidoran M and F's
final evolutions work ... *
"I'll come back later,"
I chose Ash, Aerron, and Gyarados to compete in my first try at a Pokeathlon.
All three did well, and I managed to get second place.
* Not too bad for a first-time ... *
An hour later I'd competed in Arceus-knew how many competitions and won with
either first or second place in most of them. I had 12000 P points now, which I
would be putting to good use. After checking I found I'd participated in seven
competitions so far.
* Didn't know it was that many ... *
At the counter from earlier I exchanged 8400 P points for 2 Moon stones, 1 Rare
candy, and 4 Moomoo milk. The Moon stones I wouldn't use 'till later, I planned
to sell the Rare candy, and the Moomoo milk would be useful when I started
battling again. It was supposed to heal 100 hp, which was even better than the
Lemonade from the department store. I stashed everything in my pack before
leaving the Pokeathlon stadium.
— — —
I was in the National park now. Klefki had something to say.
(There's a woman with a large cat pokemon on a bench nearby,)
"Do you mean Persian?" I asked with a hint of excitement in my voice.
I'd always wondered what they looked like.
(I think so ...)
I wandered over to the bench and smiled a little.
"Is that a Persian?" I asked the woman.
"Yes, it is. This is what Meowth evolves into. Isn't it gorgeous?"
I frowned, tempted to reach out and touch, but not sure if she would allow it.
"You can touch her if you want,"
After petting the cat for a bit I nodded.
"She is beautiful,"
"Thank you. Here have this item, I'm not using it."
A claw-like object was put in my hand.
"What is it?"
"It's a Quick claw. A pokemon who holds it will get a 10 percent chance of
moving first in battle, no matter who's faster."
* Sounds like it could be useful at some point ... *
I thanked the woman for her time, slipped the item into my pack, and walked
away.
I found a Soothe bell lying on the ground and picked it up, thinking i'd use it
later.
* This would have made Riolu evolve even faster if I'd had it before ... *
I let Oddish out and started walking around, looking for a wild pokemon for her
to fight.
(Ash left again.)
* Don't go for too long, I don't know when I'll be leaving here, *
It took a while, but Oddish finally made it to lv 20. It was so difficult
because her only offensive moves were Absorb (which took 20 hp) and Acid (which
did 40 damage if I was lucky). Chimchar (which I'd been training as well) had
done a lot better. He was lv fifteen, just one level away from evolving. I
wondered what he'd evolve into, it wasn't like I could look that up since I
didn't have the data for it.
* Probably another monkey pokemon ... *
I'd stepped off the grass for a little break, and was about to go back in when
Ash came back.
* He's been gone a while, wonder what he was doing? *
(He says he has goodies for you. Come!)
The fire-type emphasized his words by tugging on my pant leg.
"Ok ok, buddy I'm comin'" I said with a small laugh, 'feeling' the curiosity
from all my pokemon as they followed behind me.
It turned out Ash found a few things I could definitely use. There were 2 Full
heal and tm 28 Dig on the ground in front of me, which Klefki kindly identified
for me. I bent down to retrieve the items and stowed them, rubbing Quilava's
head affectionately.
"Thanks a lot Ash,"
The patches on his back heated, not igniting, but still nice and warm. I
pressed both hands against the incredible warmth and sighed in relief, feeling
a little better.
Things had been kind of intense the last few hours, so a chance to relax was
nice. I felt like I was drifting a little, my mind going just a bit fuzzy as I
let my control slip. I could feel Ash's adoration for me, Klefki's fond
feelings, Chimchar's excitement to evolve, Oddish's eagerness for battle, and
Aerron's love. It felt so right to be like this with them, able to tell what
they felt, something which even someone who could see wouldn't sense.
A loud growl from Aerron brought me back to reality.
* What the hell? *
(A bug got too close and he is threatening to kill it.)
* Wow, *
"Stand down Lucario," I said in the most authoritative voice I could muster.
I'd never really gotten the hang of doing that, that was my dad's area. Momo
said it was how I carried myself that got people to listen and believe me.
* I'd much rather have that than become a carbon copy of him ... *
A few battles (with wild pokemon) later Chimchar evolved. He called out
"Monferno!" which I figured was the name of his new form. Oddish evolved a
short time later. I made her wait an extra level just to be sure. It paid off
since she learned Mega drain at lv 21 before evolving at level 22. Since Mega
drain was a more powerful version of Absorb, waiting was worth it.
Battling trainers was the next course of action. Klefki told me he thought he
could see four people who would battle me in the park. The first two went down
pretty easily, the third following suit a short time later. I didn't really use
any strategy on them, I won by sheer level-advantage. Level 15's and 16's were
no match for my 22 plus. The only one who had a little trouble was Coal (who
had been Chimchar) because he was lower leveled than the rest of my team.
The third trainer (a female Pokefan) offered me her number after I beat her. I
was tempted to say 'no' but she managed to convince me. She claimed she went
exploring a lot, sometimes bringing back rare items like Nuggets. She had no
use for the large amount of money one could receive from selling them, so she
just gave them away.
* That'll be useful when I'm low on cash ... *
I finished off the last trainer and then went into a gatehouse I hadn't been to
before. A man stopped me and said I should know about the Bug catching
contests. After a comprehensive recounting of how they worked, he left. There
were supposed to be contests on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
* Too bad it's still Monday ... *
— — —
On Route 36 (the route after continuing on from the National Park) Ash found me
an Awakening. I captured Growlithe, Vulpix, and Stantler there. Before moving
on I shook the apricorn tree and collected a blu apricorn.
I took down the first trainer pretty easily. Or rather, Coal did. The next one
was a Schoolboy. After defeating him he mentioned he might be able to get me
some Fire stones if I registered his number. There was the possibility of
getting them with P points as well, but why not increase my chances?
* This could make it much easier anyway ... *
I agreed and typed his number into the Pokegear.
— — —
As I was walking along the path, something fell out of my pack. A bottle was
pressed into my hand, the Squirtbottle I realized as I felt along its surface.
(Aerron says you dropped this.)
"Thanks," I said, patting the pokemon's arm as he leaned into me.
(There is a weird-looking tree here,)
* What the hell? *
(Why don't you squirt the tree with water to see what happens? That's from
Ash.)
* Why the fuck not? *
I did so, the tree starting to shake. I almost punched the thing in surprise as
it moved and then cried out in anger.
"Sudowoodo!!!"
* I thought it was just a tree ... it's alive ... and it's a pokemon? *
The Sudowoodo was much stronger than I expected, but I managed to catch it with
a Great ball in the end. It knew Low kick, Mimic, Rock throw, and Flail. I
would eventually get to working with it, but not now.
A girl came up to me after the battle with the 'tree' and gave me some Berry
pots, 3 Oran berries, and 3 Pecha berries. They were supposed to be a portable
way of growing berries. One could put berries in the dirt inside the pot and
grow more. It would take a little while, but eventually you'd be able to pluck
what grew in the pot. I put all 4 of the Oran berries I had in the couple of
pots the girl gave. I chose those since they were potentially useful, but not
being used at the moment.
— — —
Back where Sudowoodo had been I went down another path, not sure where it would
lead just yet. Klefki reminded me I needed to go to Violet city to drop off the
mail.
* How the hell do I get there from here? I am sure as fuck not walking or
riding my bike all the way back through the cave and grass and such ... *
After using the map, I found out the path I was currently on led to Violet
city. When I got there I healed at the 'center, switching Coal with Togepi.
This would be temporary, Klefki'd told me about some trees I could Headbutt
around here. I did so, snagging an Exeggcute. When that was done I was in the
'center once more, retrieving Monferno and putting Togepi back.
Route 31 was where I went next. I grabbed a Yellow apricorn before finding the
man Kenya's mail (the Spearow) was supposed to go to. I untied the letter from
the bird's leg and handed it to him. He was overjoyed, hugging me. I gently
pulled his hands off me and stepped back.
"Sorry, here take this for your trouble,"
What he gave me was a tm, tm 44 to be exact. It was the move Rest, something
that healed all hp and status problems, but had one drawback. The pokemon who
used the move went to sleep, and unless you had a way around that it could cost
you in a battle.
* Items could help with that if I decide to use it ... *
I went back to Violet city and stopped at the 'center before continuing on. I
switched Gloom with Growlithe, naming him Guard. He was a dog, so it kinda fit.
I also grabbed Kirlia, leaving Monferno in the pc. After doing that I made my
way toward the next area.
— — —
I picked up a Hyper potion, scanning the map and finding out I was near Route
37. I trained Guard a little, getting him to lv 15 before entering the route. I
trained a little more and then went onto Route 37.
There were no pokemon I hadn't come across here, but there was one I found
before and hadn't caught. Seeing as it was night time, the 'night' pokemon were
out. Spinarak was added to my pc as I snatched it up. I got Growlithe to lv 17
before moving on along the route. He was coming along nicely, his Intimidate
ability making training a lot easier since it cut the attack of almost anything
it came across.
After defeating a trainer with a Drowzee, I came across some apricorn trees. I
got 1 each of blk, blu, and red. I leveled up Guard to lv 18 and then continued
along the route.
The last four trainers on the route were ... interesting. The way things ended
up, I fought two double battles. One was a set of twins, the other a set of
beauty queens. At least that's how Momo would have described the latter. After
passing all of them, I was finally able to go into the next town: Ecruteak.
 
Silver, Monday, 18:30 (Route 36) —
 
I had left Goldenrod after restocking on supplies. The phone call with Kimi had
been only ten minutes before. I was definitely ready to leave though, and also
looking forward to seeing Murasaki again.
I felt a little better about him now that I had some facts. I suspected there
was more for me to learn and understand, but that would come in time. I just
had to wait things out until I could muster the courage to call him.
On Route 35 I caught Nidoran M, a Poliwag, and a Nidoran F. None of them were
ones I wanted to train at the moment. I made sure to evolve Gastly into Haunter
while I was there though.
I still had the same team I'd used when I'd taken down Whitney. In the National
park I got a Sunkern, not sure what to do with the thing until I could evolve
it. I'd heard I needed a Sun stone for that, something which I could win during
a Bug catching contest. Since it wasn't one of the days the contest was held, I
left the little grass-type in the pc.
I wanted to go farther along Route 36 but was unable due to a tree being in the
way. Something about it seemed off to me, it was almost like it was made of
stone or something ...
* Maybe it is. Aren't there pokemon that pretend to be objects? *
In any case, I was stuck until something could be done about the tree.
 
Silver, Monday, 22:40 (Route 36) —
 
While I was waiting for the path to be cleared, I caught some pokemon. A Vulpix
(which I named Aki) and a Stantler joined my team. I rode the bike I'd gotten
earlier (in Goldenrod) all the way back to Goldenrod to pick up the new
additions for training. Haunter was replaced with Vulpix and Gloom was replaced
by Stantler. Since there was no way to evolve the grass type yet, there was no
point in keeping it with me.
I spent the time training while I waited. There were no other pokemon I really
wanted on this route, so I didn't try capturing more. I focused on Vulpix the
most, becoming very attached to the cute little fox very quickly. This was odd
for me, Sneasel was the only pokemon I'd seriously bonded with so far. Stantler
also was trained, both of them reaching lv 20.
At that point I looked up and the weird-looking tree was gone.
* It's time to go. *
I moved on to the next route (37) and beat up the trainers. I decided to catch
a Spinarak (why the hell not?) Once all the trainers were defeated I made it to
Ecruteak.
After healing my pokemon, I made a beeline for the gym.
* Let's get this over with now ... *
I was glad I'd caught Aki, she was the most useful in the battle against the
leader, Morty. Other than Hypnosis, Stantler was pretty useless in the fight.
Sneasel helped a lot too, the only other pokemon that really did.
The ghosts were stronger than I'd thought and I was unprepared for them.
Thankfully Sneasel's dark-type move (Faint attack) and most of Vulpix's helped
me compensate for that. It wasn't exactly easy, but I did win. After the battle
I went to the Pokemon center and asked for a room for the night.
 
Murasaki, Tuesday, 0:15 (Ecruteak city) —
 
The 'center was my first destination when I entered the new city. I healed my
pokemon, pleased with the progress I'd made with them. Just as the nurse gave
me back my pokemon running footsteps could be heard. A man (who the nurse
called Bill) started talking rapidly about some computer project he'd been
working on. I tuned them both out, not wanting to deal with drama at the
moment.
Quilava was in his ball for once, having wanted a break from walking around so
much. Klefki was still hanging from my neck, while Aerron had chosen to stay by
my side. He was a solid weight against my shoulder at the moment. Guard escaped
from his ball and rubbed up against my legs.
"Hey, you're not supposed to be out,"
The dog didn't seem to have heard me and started licking my hand. I put on a
mock-exasperated face, but couldn't keep it there for long. A few minutes later
I was kneeling on the ground scratching him behind the ears. Aerron was
watching the people in the 'center, I could 'feel' how he was 'protecting' me.
* I'm glad he takes his job seriously, but he doesn't havta do it all the time
... *
The man who worked with computers came up to me about five minutes after I'd
broken down and gotten on the floor with my dog.
"Hey, you're Murasaki Jeigar aren't you?"
I stiffened, rising to my feet and running a hand through my hair. Both pokemon
noticed and started growling.
"Back off both of you," I said, wondering how much to say. I finally thought
'fuck it' and just went with the truth.
"I was Murasaki Jeigar, my dad disowned me recently,"
He made a sympathetic noise.
"That's too bad,"
"What do you want anyway? Does me losing the family name change it?"
"Actually I was wondering if you could look at some equipment for me later.
Word in the computing business is that you can take apart and 'fix' almost
anything electronic."
I smirked. "Maybe. What's in it for me?"
"Hmmm, come to my place in Goldenrod and I'll see what I can do,"
And then he left. Before doing so however, he gave me directions to his house.
— — —
It took a little while, but I finally made it back to Goldenrod on my bike. The
bird who I'd delivered the letter with was returned to his master in the
gatehouse when I went by. I hadn't done any training on the way, but I had been
thinking. Since I wasn't currently using it, why keep the Gyarados with me? It
was a strong water-type, but there was no reason to use it at the moment. He
went into the pc, and I left the last slot blank, unsure what I wanted to train
next.
I rode the short distance to Bill's and left Ash outside to guard the bike. He
was probably bored anyway, he'd never stayed in his ball for very long.
— — —
"So did you figure out how to pay me? Sorry man, but I don't do anything
mechanical or computer-related for free. It just isn't worth it."
"I have an idea yeah. I don't get paid for another couple days, but I have a
pokemon I can give you."
I raised an eyebrow, waiting.
"An Eevee was running around the Ecruteak Pokemon center earlier. I'm not a
trainer so I don't know what to do with it. Will you take care of it?"
I smiled, I'd wanted to try out Eevee and its evolutions for a few years now.
After what I'd read about them, they would definitely be worth it. I'd use the
Ditto I'd caught to breed more Eevee when I was ready.
"Sure,"
"Here you go, he's kinda shy," a girl said as she came up to me.
"Murasaki this is my cousin Mara. Mara this is the computer guy I told you
about."
"Hi," she said, seeming a little nervous.
* Does she want me to hold it? *
(She is giving you a look like she expects you to do something.)
I sighed inwardly, going over to the girl and touching what was hopefully her
arm. It was. I ran my fingers across her skin lightly, finally finding
something furry in her arms. I gently lifted it and cradled it against my
chest.
A sound that reminded me of purring came from the thing's throat.
"He hasn't been that friendly to anyone since you brought him here Bill-you."
"I know Mar, I think this was a good match-up."
Aerron lay his head on my shoulder and growled softly. The noise was one of
contentment, not irritation or anger.
"Can I work on this machine for ya tomorrow? It's pretty late and I'm exhausted
from all the training and traveling I did today."
"Sure," Bill said.
"here, take his number for later," Mara said, putting a piece of paper in my
hand. I put the paper in my pocket and left.
— — —
At the 'center, I asked for a room.
* I wasn't going to stay here tonight, but since it's so late and I don't wanna
ride anymore tonight might as well ... *
In the room I stripped to my boxers and undid the chain around my neck, placing
it on a corner of the pillow. I smiled fondly as I remembered who I switched
Monferno with. Kirlia was back on my team for the moment. I was looking forward
to working with him again.
Klefki was asleep so quick I'd have worried if I didn't know what he'd been
doing all day. Though he didn't battle much (or at all that day) he translated
and watched for me. Aerron nudged my shoulder as I lay down on the bed. I
frowned, trying to pick out individual emotions from the aura I could feel from
him. Since this wasn't exactly my 'usual method1' I had no idea what I was
doing. I would have no choice but to learn at some point though, I only rarely
'felt' feelings from him using my psychometric powers.
I finally gave up, asking a question out loud.
"Do you wanna sleep out of your ball tonight?"
He nuzzled my neck, something I was too tired to be worried about. He lay his
head on my shoulder, wrapping his arms around me from behind. The Eevee I'd
gotten from Bill struggled a few times (I could hear him trying) and finally
managed to jump onto the bed. The little guy climbed onto my chest and I
wrapped my arms around him, closing my eyes as sleep took me.
***** chapter 8 *****
* * * chapter VIII * * *
- Burnt Tower, Seeing Silver, and Ghost's Lair -
 
Silver, Tuesday, 9:30 (Ecruteak city) —
 
After taking a shower and feeding myself and the pokemon, I rode back to
Goldenrod city on my bike. I had Sneasel, Croconaw, Vulpix, Sandslash,
Stantler, and Kadabra with me. I didn't need to change any of them out just
yet, so I made my way to the counter where I could take care of the reason I
was here.
I asked the nurse if any packages had come this morning. When she asked what my
name was I said 'hunter.' It was an alias I'd used on missions with Team R,
something both my contact and Kimi knew about. Before the nurse could answer, a
girl with bright green hair that was woven with yellow and blue flowers
motioned for me to follow her. Knowing this was Lanie I did, making sure to
ride my bike on the way. It was slower, but she walked while I rode.
— — —
"Stop here," the girl said as she pointed to a house-like building. I knew it
for what it was though: the Goldenrod Underground.
* Why are we going in there? *
I sighed, getting off the bike and pulling out Kadabra's poke ball. I let him
out, giving him instructions to watch the bike and Teleport inside the building
to find me if someone managed to run off with it somehow. I had money, but I
didn't want to pay for another bike if I didn't have to.
After that was done I followed Lanie inside. She nodded to people we passed,
seeming uninterested in any of them. Finally, she stopped in front of a blank
wall that was nowhere near anybody and tapped it. She pulled out a poke ball
and released a Hypno, telling it to use Psychic on the wall. After a minute of
nothing happening a panel in the wall appeared and she tapped a space,
revealing a keypad. After typing in some commands, (which her Hypno blocked
from my view by standing in front of me) a door slid open.
"Come on in," the girl said as she walked through the door. I shrugged, knowing
I could battle to get out if necessary (confident in my ability to do so) and
went in. The door slid shut with a soft hiss, locking from the inside. I
glanced at it curiously, wondering if it was now hidden behind ... whatever hid
it before.
* I never knew about this place ... Of course, this is the first time I've been
to Johto. *
"What do you think?"
I rolled my eyes.
"Too much of a theatrical entrance, but at least it seems to be hard enough to
find."
She snorted, giving me a hard stare.
"What? You asked. Has being out of contact with me for the last two years made
you forget how I respond to questions?"
She sighed. "I'd hoped you'd be a little more ... tactful by now. You were
always so direct and to the point I wondered how you did so well with Team R in
the first place."
* That's because missions used to matter. I could hold back my ... personality
most of the time for those. *
I glared at her.
"The package?"
She sighed. "Here it is. I was a little surprised since I haven't heard from
you since I moved my operations to Goldenrod."
I pocketed the wrapped package, I'd look at the data later.
Lanie gave me a searching look.
"You look well Hunter. You still working with Team R?"
I took some time to think about my answer.
* Should I tell her? If I do, she can't compromise me or hurt me by knowing. *
"I'm ... not working with them anymore."
I was bothered by the way my voice sounded; almost hesitant, but still speaking
truth.
* Murasaki would want me to tell the truth. I can ... somewhat trust her right?
*
She grinned, moving toward me to no doubt hug me. I shied back, Sneasel letting
out his claws as she approached.
"Still cautious and anti-touchy-feely as ever huh Hunter? I was going to pat
you on the back by the way. I'm glad you left."
I gave her a strange look.
"Why?"
She smirked, rolling her eyes.
"Do you really think I'd want a kid like you to be a part of that?"
* You're a kid too by that definition. *
Out loud I said:
"And?"
"I'm not part of Team R either. I'm a consultant for the Cops — I specialize in
black market trading."
* You know, that actually explains a lot. *
"What do you trade in?"
She snickered. "Still using what little facts you can get I see. I never said I
was 'trading' just that I have experience in it."
I rolled my eyes, not wanting to play any of her little games today.
"We both know you are still trading so cut the bullshit."
She huffed, but her face turned serious finally.
"I trade in pokemon — sometimes very rare pokemon. I buy and sell them for real
cheap."
I raised an eyebrow.
"And the cops approve of this?"
"They do actually, as long as I make sure I tell them when I get a rare one.
There are 'common' rare, which are just rarer pokemon, or 'uncommon' rare,
which are those that are special in some way."
I nodded, listening to her speak. I could see Sneasel rolling his eyes out of
the corner of my eye.
"So you what, acquire them somehow and then make sure they get to another part
of the country?"
"More or less. If I get an injured or traumatized pokemon I make sure it gets
taken off the market right away and put into the hands of someone who can take
care of it properly. That, is why the police trust me."
I rolled my eyes again.
"Ok, so why are you telling me all this? I could just go back to Team R and let
them know their trader works for the cops."
She made a rude gesture.
"You're not with them, you won't."
I smirked a shark's grin.
"My father is,"
She raised an eyebrow.
"Do you really think I'd fall for that? Why are you giving yourself away
anyway? You may not be with Team R anymore, but I could use your identity
against you now that I know it."
* Shit that was stupid. Maybe spending so much time around Murasaki is making
my training slip. She's right, I should be more careful. *
"Well, the name of the director isn't widely known."
"I know it though: as an informant-consultant for the cops I can get
information as payment. Don't think I can't Silver."
* Looks like my cover's blown. Luckily I never dressed like I normally do
around her. A little surprised she noticed it was me so quick with this get-up.
*
I was still wearing the clothes I'd purchased in Cherrygrove all those days
ago. The color was a little more tolerable, but still felt wrong.
"So you know who I am, what will you do with the information?"
"Nothing unless you double-cross me. Your secret's safe with me Hunter."
* And now we're back to that. What's her game? *
She giggled. "Do your lovers call you that too? 'Oh Hunter take me harder.'"
I shrugged. "Wouldn't care either way since I don't get that close to people."
She frowned. "That's just sad."
I gave her a frustrated look.
"So, why bring up this trading ring of yours? Do you have something to trade?"
She smiled at me, going over to a large storage chest. She came back with two
poke balls. One was black and white with a silver C on it and the other was the
normal red and white.
"You might be interested in these two. I have a Mudkip and a Houndour here I
just got yesterday."
I screwed up my face into a scowl.
"What makes you think you know me so well?"
She shrugged. "Let's see ... with your personality, even if it's a front, you
would probably pick Totodile as a starter am I right?"
* What the fuck? How did she do that? *
I grunted in reply.
"Ok, so if you chose the water type, you'd be looking for fire types now ..."
* Right again, but I already have one. *
She groaned, glaring at me.
"At least tell me if I'm right."
"Right with both,"
"Ok, so if you had a chance to get another strong water type would you take
it?"
I thought for a moment, another strong water-type would be useful.
"Maybe, what type is this 'houndour' you mentioned?"
"Fire,"
"I'll take them both,"
"I'll need two pokemon to trade for them. They can be anything, just be aware
that you won't get them back."
I nodded. "I can find two to trade."
"Great! I'll meet you back at the Pokemon center in a little while."
— — —
I went to the Pokemon center (recalling Kadabra on the way) and booted up a
free pc.
* Hmmm ... I have Beedrill, Fearow, Flaafy, Bellsprout, Noctowl, Haunter,
Magikarp, Gloom, Parasect, Butterfree, Zubat, Heracross, Drowzee, Krabby,
Nidoran M, Nidoran F, Poliwag, and Spinarak. That's just the pc, I also have
Croconaw, Kadabra, Sneasel, Stantler, Vulpix, and Sandslash. *
I went out to Route 34 to catch something I would trade.
* Even that Zubat can evolve into a decent pokemon after the first evolution. *
I ended up grabbing a Drowzee and a Rattata.
As I walked back into the Pokemon center, I spotted Lanie. I nodded to her and
went to switch out my pokemon. I kept Sneasel and Aki, wanting the two pokemon
I'd really connected to with me. Stantler and Kadabra stayed as well. Sadly
Croconaw and Sandslash were the ones I chose to put in the pc.
* I like you — you're really strong Croconaw, but I'd like to try out this new
water type for a while. *
"Got what you want?" the girl asked when I turned around.
I nodded. "Let's go,"
She led me back to her place, an office she called it. It was a tiny room with
a desk, a filing cabinet, that container she'd gotten the poke balls from, and
a couch. She gestured for me to sit on the couch as she slid open a drawer from
the file cabinet and rummaged inside.
Sneasel curled up at my feet, alert despite putting on an air of boredom.
* At least someone remembers their training ... I've gotta really work on that.
Hell, I shda used Hunter when I gave Murasaki my name ... what the fuck's wrong
with me? *
A voice in the back of my mind whispered that I was falling in love, but I
shoved it back. For the longest time, I was worried about something like that
happening (a real fear when I first came to father's mansion) but now it was
just something to worry about. I just hoped that my heart, if not my mind, had
chosen the right person.
"Here we are, let's get this started." Lanie said as she put down a small table
and an antique-looking transfer machine. I'd seen one of these before while ...
I had no idea where, but it seemed familiar to me.
* Is this something that goes with the gaps in my memory? *
Before I could think further on that a sharp pain lanced through my brain and I
felt myself slipping away ...
— — —
I slowly blinked my eyes open, Sneasel's concerned face just inches from mine.
I reached out, pulling him onto my chest as I tried to look around. My vision
was foggy, but regaining its usual clarity slowly.
"Good you're up. You really scared me back there Hunter," a voice said.
I winced and shut my eyes again.
* Lanie I think ... why does sound hurt so much? *
"I think you either hit your head at some point in the last few days or have
some suppressed memory that I triggered."
* M-memory? *
"Memory?"
She handed me a glass of something and went on.
"Yeah. That's the reaction some of the Team R members I've had as clients gave
when they saw this machine. They say it reminds them of ... the old labs,
whatever that means."
* What the hell is she talking about? *
"You might wanna drink that, it's tea that helps with migraines, which, if
you're like any of the others, you have right now."
I did notice extreme pain ... worse than any headache i'd had up to this point.
It was hard to focus with sounds so loud and warped and my mind still fuzzy.
I saw the image of an indistinct man and a little girl with blue eyes before I
forced my eyes open.
I drank the tea, feeling a bit better.
"Feel any better?"
I smiled slightly.
"Yeah," I croaked out.
"Good, I can get this trade over with if you give me the poke balls. What did
you decide on anyway?"
Sneasel pulled at my belt, which I fumbled to take off. Finally the thing came
off and I handed it to him. He extracted the right balls and put them on the
table, placing the belt next to me on the couch.
* Glad he's always been good at telling which balls contain which pokemon ... *
"Ok ... thanks."
I downed some more tea and gestured for Sneasel to jump onto my lap. I rubbed
his shoulder with my free hand as I watched the girl.
"Drowzee and Rattata,"
"What?" she asked, the machine starting to make an annoying whirring noise.
* At least it's not as loud as things were when I first woke up. *
"Drowzee and Rattata, the two pokemon I gave you,"
"Ah, thanks for the info. I have a client who wants a Drowzee anyway, so
that'll help."
I chuckled, noting my voice was going back to its normal sound as well.
"So, where are these two from anyway?"
"The Mudkip is the starter from Hoenn, gotten from a man who was passing
through here looking for a place to hide it. Says he found it wandering about
in his backyard, but saw some guys in white lurking around and thought they
might be looking for it."
I nodded, finishing off the tea.
"The other one is from Johto, at least it's supposed to be. The girl who
brought it over said it was bred from a Houndoom — its evolution — found near
Celadon city."
* Why would a Johto-oriented pokemon be in Kanto? *
I would know, Kanto is where I'd spent most of the last — ten? - years of my
life. I was pretty sure it was ten, but with the gaps in my memory from early
childhood there was no way to be sure.
A few minutes later the poke balls with my new pokemon were put on the table.
"Be aware that the Mudkip was acting strange when I let it out for the usual
examination I give before trading. It cowered when I held up a leaf, ran away
when I showed it a lightning bolt, and tried to attack me when it saw a fire
ball. These were all pictures of course, but rather extreme reactions even with
the types its strong and weak against. It should battle fine, but you might
havta work on those."
She tossed the ball to me and I caught it.
"The Houndour is a different story. The Attack reader I used on it swears it
can use Psychic and Air cutter."
* The hell? *
"I know what you're thinking, and this isn't the first time I've seen something
like this. Usually though, the pokemon is just stronger than it should be, and
can use say Strength at its lowest form. I got a Charmander that could use
Strength once."
I frowned. "But why are they like that?"
"I have no idea, but you should be careful about how you use these moves. I
would keep them out of official battles if I were you: no gym battles with them
unless absolutely necessary."
I nodded.
"I am guessin' you are trying to keep a low profile." she said, pointing to my
clothes.
"What's wrong with them?" I asked, feeling defensive.
The outfit was the best I could find, and the color was definitely something I
would never wear.
"I meant it was good. I thought you hated blue though?"
I growled under my breath.
"I do."
"This is all settled then. Can you leave now if you don't have any more to
trade?"
It was a question, but I knew this to mean she wanted me out. She'd used a
similar line the last time I met up with her, for information that time.
"Silver," she called as I was leaving.
I turned around, fastening my belt into place as I stopped.
"Yeah?"
"I have connections for this operation and my information-gathering all over
the Great regions. If you need a certain pokemon I can get it. I chip the
pokemon so I can track where they go. I think I can trust you now that you are
ex-Rocket ... right?"
I nodded. "You can."
She gave me her number and then I left.
— — —
Back at the Pokemon center I put the chip Kimi sent into my laptop. After
setting up three very different passwords on it I opened up the first file.
This one, on Changelings, held nothing I could use.
* Not even a mention of Murasaki ... *
The Pokemorph file was much the same.
* Hope the last one can lead me in a direction I can use at least. *
The file on Project Alpha actually did have some interesting information. It
was spelled Alfa though, which I was sure Kimi had miss-pronounced on purpose
in case she was overheard or monitored.
* This one must have been really important if she was afraid of having her
phone tapped and had to say the name wrong. *
Sometimes, Team R would tap the phones of their operatives. The devices were
the organization's property of course, and thus it was allowed (in the contract
all employees signed when they joined up).
* Why wasn't she using code all the time then? *
It took a while, but I finally read all I could on Project Alfa. Kimi had made
a note that she put smaller files on the chip that were so encrypted she
couldn't open them, so I went to work on one of those next. The information in
the first file was rather basic, listing what the idea was and when the project
took place.
* It was twelve years ago ... and what's with their fascination with psychic
powers? *
 
Murasaki, Tuesday, 9:05 (Goldenrod city) —
 
I woke and showered, letting everyone out so they could eat while I did. Once I
was dressed (not wearing the Dowsers) I recalled all but Eevee, Lucario, and
Klefki. Ash said he wanted to ride in a ball again, which I wasn't going to
argue.
* I hope someone else can find items for me while he's in his ball. *
— — —
At Bill's I took apart an old pc. He said he was the one who'd made the very
first pc in Kanto, some years back. This one was that machine, but it currently
wasn't working. It took a few hours, (in which all pokemon but Klefki were put
away to keep me from getting distracted) but I did finish the job. As I was re-
assembling it Bill came over. He'd been in another room doing something on his
computer (or at least that's what he'd said he was doing).
"How's it going?"
I rubbed grease from my hands onto my pants and shrugged.
"I'm almost finished. Just need to put it back together. Never worked on
something like this before, but I re-wired most of it, so it should work."
He hummed in agreement.
"Word is you're really good, so I'm sure it will."
I chuckled, knowing he was probably right.
* I'll need another shower after this ... *
"So how's the Eevee I gave you?"
On queue the laser-like sound of a pokemon escaping its ball was heard. In
fact, there were two of those. The first was the Eevee, which yipped happily
and rubbed up against my pants. The second was Aerron, who growled in greeting,
but didn't touch me.
(He says you smell awful, but he still loves you.)
* Oh gee thanks Aerron ... *
I smiled a little.
"As you can see, the Eevee is happy."
"Yeah, he really seems to like you. Given him a name yet?"
I shook my head, grimacing at how gross my hair felt. I'd gotten both grease
and oil on it at some point, probably when I had to take apart the unit's
inside. The thing was very old, almost as big as me, and much easier to take
apart than I'd originally thought.
* Thank Arceus ... *
I slid the last parts into place and stood up.
"Guess I'll be going now."
"Wait!" Mara said as she ran into the room.
"What is it?" I asked.
"Bill-y you still want him to have this right?"
"Yes Mar."
* Want me to have what? *
"Should I give it to one of your pokemon to carry until you can get cleaned
up?" the girl asked.
"You can wash your hands and face in the bathroom down the hall," Bill said.
I went to do that, coming back as quickly as I could.
"Here, it's tm 29 Psychic, we found it in a box Bill-y had lying around." the
girl said, giving it to me.
* I can definitely use this ... *
I thanked them both (telling Bill he could call me for another job whenever)
and left.
I carried Eevee, putting him on my lap as I rode the bike back to the 'center.
I went back to the room (which I hadn't checked out of yet) and showered again.
I also soaked my current outfit in water for a while, then had Ash dry it off
for me. I put the newly cleaned clothes and boots on before picking up anything
I'd left lying around. After that I gave the key to the nurse and got onto my
bike, the normal-type riding on my lap while Aerron ran beside me. He said it
would be good training and I wasn't going to argue with that.
— — —
In Ecruteak Klefki had something to say.
(There is a large house here, can you go inside for me?)
"Ah hell, I hope there aren't too many people in there."
(If there are you have permission to yell at me.)
"As long as we're clear on that, sure."
(We are,)
I made it inside, leaving Blitz to watch the bike.
(There is a sign on a stage that says 'kimono girls studio')
"Hmmm ... guess that first one was right, that is if they're here,"
(There is a Rocket grunt here. He's arguing with one of the Kimono girls,)
* Not them again ... *
Eevee yipped in anger when Klefki said this.
(I think he knows some of the girls, he seems very ... familiar ... watching
the girl he's talking to like a Fearow on the hunt ... but more like a
Protector than Hunter.)
* That's ... interesting. Maybe he should stay then ... *
As if he'd heard my thoughts, Eevee nuzzled my arm, making that purring noise
I'd heard last night. He was still in my arms, apparently his preferred
position.
(He says he wants to stay with you — he will fight for it if necessary.)
* Well that solves that issue ... *
By the time I was done thinking about that, the voices of the Rocket and what
must have been one of the girls had stopped. I could have listened in, but
didn't care enough.
Eevee bit my arm, something which surprised me so much I dropped him.
(He's alright, but he's running toward the stage.)
* Fuck ... *
I ran after him, glad I'd given him the Lucky egg before leaving the 'center.
* If you wanna fight then bring it on! *
When I got there the normal type was growling and the man was grunting in
irritation.
"That one's mine. Why are you here?" I asked the grunt.
Klefki'd told me that the grunts and Proton wore different uniforms when I
faced Team rocket in Azalea, so when he said this one was a 'grunt' I believed
him.
"Doesn't matter ... let's battle!"
I nodded. "You're on!"
The battle was pretty easy in theory, but since Eevee was fighting a lv 12
Koffing it was more difficult than I'd thought it might be. Thankfully he knew
Tackle. He was fast too, which helped since the Koffing knew Poison gas and
could have poisoned him. He managed to avoid all the gas and come out on top,
leveling 3 levels afterward. I was proud of him, the normally sweet and cuddly
little guy was learning to fight.
Aerron popped free of his ball after the fighting was over and growled at the
grunt, (he'd taken a little rest after I arrived at the city) which I knew
because Klefki told me.
(He is happy for the baby, but angry the guy is still standing around. I think
he has had contact with Team R or something like them before.)
* Could be ... *
After about a minute of Aerron's growling, Eevee's growling, (which was more
cute than menacing) and the glare I aimed in his direction the grunt finally
left. I stepped off the stage once he was gone, glad that was over with.
(A man is coming up to you. He is wearing fancy clothes.)
"Thank you for taking care of that," he said.
I ran a hand through my hair.
"Does this happen often?"
"No, the guy just came in here and started making demands." a girl's voice
said.
"Mistress you should be practicing." the man said.
"I can handle this myself Kenta. I may be the youngest, but I am capable
enough."
"Of course, Mistress,"
"You may go Kenta,"
The man walked off.
(He went into another room,)
"Thank you once again. Here, take this for your trouble, it's hm 03 Surf."
A disc was placed in my hands.
"Thanks," I said as I pulled the tm and hm case from my pack.
The newest addition was added, then the whole thing was returned to the pack.
"I am sure we will see you again. Oh before I forget! You can keep that Eevee,
but let me help you out first,"
The girl picked up the normal type (Klefki told me) and went into another room.
A few minutes later she and the normal type came back, the latter running.
"I helped him learn the move Mimic, it will help a lot." the girl said as they
arrived.
Eevee rubbed up against me and I picked him up.
"My name is Kikiu. I am sure I will see you again. You can call me by this
number if you wish to learn how to dance." she said as she gave me a piece of
paper.
* Why would I wanna learn how ta dance? *
Out loud I said:
"Dance?"
"Yes, you know martial arts do you not?"
I nodded.
"Dancing will help you with that. I also know gymnastics as well,"
I blinked a few times, still confused.
"They will ... how do you say ... Ah! Augment your fighting."
* Makes sense ... I think ... *
"I'll call you some time."
"I can help with pokemon as well,"
— — —
Once outside, I used the map to see what was in and around Ecruteak. It turned
out there was another route if I went through a gatehouse at the rightmost part
of the city. I did so, stepping out onto the dirt-packed ground. As I was
trying to get onto the route (42) a man came up to me. He gave me hm 04
Strength before leaving. I also found tm 79 Dark pulse, which I taught to
Lucario. I took the time to teach Kirlia Psychic and Growlithe Dig while I was
there.
I made my way back to Ecruteak after that. I'd wanted to stay and do some
training, but Klefki convinced me otherwise. The key-pokemon was obsessed with
houses, I swear, which I mentioned when he asked me to go into another one. He
didn't seem bothered by the complaint, just urged me onward.
The house he brought me to was between the 'center and the gym. Inside a man
gave me a Dowsing machine, which would replace Quilava whenever he was in his
ball or in the pc (if I ever decided to put him in there). Through colors and
sounds, it was made to show you where items were, whether they were 'hidden' or
not. Up until this point Ash had found all hidden items for me.
* Good thing I have this thing then. Think I'll take it apart later to work on
it though. *
Outside the house I held the thing, getting images and a few memories from the
guy I'd just talked to. He must have used the machine a lot, since there was so
much for me to sort through. It all gave me a headache, so I pulled out the
notebook I was currently writing and drawing in, letting my fingers and the
pencil do the purging I needed.
* The Dowsers were nice while they lasted, but I gotta do things the old-
fashioned way now. *
After the 'purge' of words and memories, I had a comprehensive guide (with
pictures) of how to use the thing. I turned it on and Klefki directed me to the
first item, a Hyper potion.
Ash popped out of his ball after I found the Hyper potion. His flames roared as
he ran off. Eevee jumped down and ran after him. They both came back with an
Ether and a Rare candy. Each pokemon gave me an item, and I thanked them both.
I started toward the Burnt tower next.
— — —
A man who called himself Eusine came up to me as I entered the building. Ash
and Eevee ran off somewhere while he talked. They came back just as the man was
finishing telling me about the Legendary dogs, both tugging on my pant leg. I
laughed a little, said goodbye to the man, and went to collect what they'd
found.
It turned out they'd gathered 1 Antidote, 1 hp up, 1 Ultra ball, and 1 Ether.
Klefki told me there were stairs here, so I started down them. As I did I felt
odd, almost like there was something I should recognize nearby. It almost felt
... comforting?
* This is really fuckin' weird. *
 
Silver, Tuesday, 13:20 (Burned tower) —
 
I'd been busy. After reading what I could and decoding what I could, I rode
back to Ecruteak. I caught a Mankey from Route 42 (for later training) and then
went and snagged a Magnemite and a Meowth from Route 38.
* Could've used this little normal type in the gym battle last night. *
I did a little training before going to the Burned tower.
Inside I walked onto the stairs, wondering if I'd see Murasaki soon. I was
carrying Croconaw again, having put the Mudkip in the pc after training it a
little.
* If I were him, I'd train here. I should have last night actually. *
He showed up as I'd thought, Eusine, (a man who'd told me about the Legendary
dog pokemon when I came in) talking to him. I almost felt ... jealous of the
man.
* He doesn't know him, it must be easy to talk to him. *
Not that I'd rather not know him, but ... I wasn't sure what to say to the guy.
— — —
"Ready for a re-match?" I asked, using that as a jab.
He'd won last time, but I wanted to see if I could get a rise out of him. He
seemed so ... focused all the time (not like my control but similar in some
ways) that I wanted to see his mask of 'focused' break. No such luck.
"You're on,"
"Go! Aki!"
"Aki?" the other boy asked.
I smirked. "Vulpix,"
"Go Growlithe!"
* Two fire types ... did he do that on purpose? *
* * * *
"Quick attack,"
"Odor sleuth,"
"What?" I asked, never having heard of that move.
"Now Bite,"
The attack hit somehow, even though Vulpix was running so fast I could barely
see her.
* Ok something else then ... *
"Confuse ray,"
"Dodge,"
The attack hit anyway, the dog-pokemon starting to ram its head against the
ground.
"Growlithe!"
Nothing.
"Growlithe!"
Still nothing.
On the last try of him calling his pokemon it snapped out of confusion.
* Damn. *
"Dig,"
* Shit, if that does what I think it does, we're fucked. *
"Ready Confuse ray and don't use it till I tell you,"
I waited anxiously for the dog to come out of the hole it had created.
When it did it slammed into Aki, knocking her over. She didn't consciously let
loose her attack, but it fired anyway. The dog hit its head against the ground
and then fell unconscious, Aki doing so at the same time.
* * * *
"Wasn't expecting that. Draw?"
I knew it was, but I wanted to make sure I wasn't seeing things.
"Yeah,"
"Go! Stantler!"
"Your turn Aerron!"
* Aerron? *
Aerron it turned out was a Lucario.
* Those are supposed to be rare, you're lucky. *
* * * *
"Hypnosis,"
"Dodge,"
* Nice try. *
"Run after it,"
"Hypnosis again,"
"Dodge again and use Mind reader,"
* What the hell? *
"Follow it,"
"Use your speed to get away and then use Hi jump kick,"
* Shit ... if that hits we're done. *
The attack did land, but thankfully Stantler was still going. It was very close
though, he was barely conscious. Something strange happened as I watched. The
Lucario was staring at the Stantler, a glazed look in its eyes. I laughed
darkly.
"You're going to lose this round,"
"Why's that?"
"Your Lucario is staring at my Stantler. Don't you know what happens when
someone stares at them too long?"
He shook his head.
"They get so distracted they cannot do anything to stop attacks. Stomp!"
"Move,"
Of course, the Lucario didn't and Stantler slammed into it.
* Damnit I'd hoped that would do more damage. Oh right, it's part steel-type
... *
It did appear that the attack knocked the pokemon back to reality though.
* Unfortunately for me ... *
"Return,"
"Are you kidding me?"
"Just watch,"
Stantler just stood there, seemingly fascinated by the projectiles soaring at
him. I wasn't sure if the pokemon were interested in each other sexually or
that they just found each other fascinating. Either way Stantler wouldn't move,
even when prompted to do so.
The heart-projectiles hit their target. The normal-type fell over hard, its
eyes closing.
* What was that I said about winning this round? *
 
Murasaki, between third and fourth round (Burned tower) —
 
"Hell, that was weird," I heard Silver say as Aerron walked up and lay his head
on my shoulder.
(The boy is glaring at Aerron.)
I snorted. "Not jealous of a pokemon now are you Hunter?"
* Why did I call him that? *
I 'felt' something from him then, maybe a recent memory. It showed a girl with
green hair talking to him and calling him 'hunter.'
* That's weird though, I didn't know he was called that till now. He does seem
like one to me though: the way he practically held me down and devoured my
mouth yesterday ... and he seems to not wanna give up ... *
"Why did you call me that? Did your ... powers tell you?"
"It sorta fit, the way you were actin' yesterday and kinda now, but yes, my
powers did tell me. Curiously though, it was after I'd said it that I found
out."
He growled lowly, but I heard it as if it had been full-volume.
"What? It's not like I can control this shit man. And don't tell anyone else,
but it's been getting stronger again lately."
"Stronger? Is this what they did to you when you were kidnapped?"
* Wrong thing to say ... *
Before I knew it, I'd slammed a wall of negativity at him, knowing because of
how his emotions scattered at my shove, and also by the 'feel' of pain I picked
up from him.
* Well ya shouldn't have brought that up. I told ya so you could find out, I
didn't wanna talk about it, but you just had ta bring it up didn't you? *
(He seems ... remorseful. Don't hit him with ... whatever that was again. He
looks guilty, sorry, and in a lot of pain.)
"Hard to care right now," I mumbled.
(AT least hear him out.)
"Fine," I muttered.
"Say what you're goin' ta now before I do that again."
I growled myself, making sure he'd hear it.
"That was probably the stupidest thing ya coulda done ..."
He gasped as a smaller push of negative emotions hit him. This time though I
had no control over it.
* Shit I'll be in a rage if I don't stop this ... *
"I — thought — you couldn't — hur ..."
I moved fast, my hand finding his shoulder and squeezing hard.
"I normally can't, but when I'm angry or hurting myself it's hard to stop from
doing it. You can help though I think ..."
"W-what can I do?" he asked, obviously still in pain.
I bit my lip.
"Distract me by doing what you did yesterday."
I knew how bad of an idea that was (we needed to discuss things at least) but I
didn't have any other options. To my knowledge aura could only do so much
(which ruled out Aerron's involvement) and none of the others could do
anything. Klefki's talking wasn't helping obviously and pokemon weren't
supposed to harm humans.
* Shit this is a bad idea ... *
I dug the hole even deeper after another blast (this one stronger than the
last) hit. I was already shaking with the emotional pain (what I felt and what
he was feeling) but I could still feel his body shake under my hand.
"W-what do I have to do do?"
I bit my lip again.
"Dominate the fuck outta me. I know you're probably not ready for more than
yesterday, which is fine, as long as you don't let me keep control."
* And unfortunately with how things are going I won't have time to explain more
before I seriously hurt you ... *
"And you have maybe ... a minute or two before this gets much worse ..."
I could feel the power boiling inside me, just waiting to come out and do more
damage.
Suddenly I was slammed against a wall, my wrists pinned above my head. Silver's
lips practically crushed mine as he dove in, taking what I didn't want to
acknowledge was his. It had been this whole time, but I was just too afraid of
him treating me like a freak to let it happen. Even if I hadn't been turned
into a fucking nightmare of a Psychometric that dangerously bordered on
Emotional Render (which did just what it says, 'rend' emotions) my back story
as an abductee could cause him to treat me like ... like I was damaged. Which
honestly, I wouldn't be able to stand. That alone, would make me lash out even
worse than being treated like a freak.
He shoved me against the wall, (which should not have been possible since I was
already plastered against the thing) and kept on going. One of us would need to
stop for air soon, and I was pretty sure it wouldn't be me. I tried to break
free so I could touch him, but he tightened his grip on my wrists. When I tried
again, pushing a weak burst of negative emotions at him purposefully, his grip
tightened so much I thought I'd become lightheaded.
My wrists exploded with pain, but instead of making me cry out and fight, my
body responded in other ways. I felt myself grow hard almost instantly, my body
beginning to shake with pleasure. A moan escaped my mouth and was swallowed by
the other boy. He pressed himself closer, his knee grinding against my cock
deliciously.
All I could think was 'fuck.' I had no idea if I wanted him to take me right
here, or if I was just overwhelmed. He kept grinding, but eventually pulling
back to breath. And that's when my powers were gathered (not of my own doing)
and shoved into him. He collapsed against me, not dead at least, I could tell
that for sure. I had no idea if he was still conscious though.
* Please be awake. I can't stop this and I think you can ... *
He grabbed me by the neck and squeezed, his free hand sliding down until it
reached the buckle at my belt.
* Good idea ... * I thought hazily.
He fumbled with the belt one handed for a moment and then yanked the buckle
free. His hand undid the button quickly, slipping inside my pants to slowly
glide along the length of my cock.
* Holy fuck ... *
Never in my wildest dreams had I thought he would initiate this. This confused
boy, one I wasn't sure of where orientation was concerned, was touching my
cock. Even in the more ... graphic dreams I'd thought he would only start after
I did something.
* Guess I was wrong ... *
The choke hold loosened and he sucked on my ear hard, making me buck up into
his hand and wish he really could do me right there. I'd never had lovers, but
had played around. I knew for a fact that my ears were extremely sensitive,
something I was sure he'd exploit right now.
* Don't think I'd care soooo much if he did ... *
His strokes got firmer and surer as he continued to suck on my ear. When he
added nips and bites to that I lost it, moaning out loud and not caring who
heard. I could 'feel' Aerron's protective nature kicking in on the periphery,
but could do nothing about it. If anything, he'd keep other people (and
pokemon) away.
All too soon I felt a white-hot sensation in my stomach and my balls drew up,
ready to dump their load. As I felt this however, something blocked the
release.
* He's ... stoppin' me? *
"No," he growled.
My first response was to force him to let go by pushing more negative emotions
at him, but a sharp bite to my ear stopped that thought.
"You want more, you do it my way,"
"W-what do you want Hunter?" I practically growled, the frustration evident.
"You to listen to me,"
"What. do. you. want?"
"Stop hurting me and wait till I tell you you can cum,"
I growled again, but he kept me from hurting him again with another bite.
"You want all of this to stop, I can leave right now,"
"The fuck you will!"
"That's what I thought. You want more of this,"
He emphasized his point with a nice firm stroke to my cock and then rubbed and
massaged my slit a little.
"You wait,"
"Why?" I nearly whined.
"I want to hear more noises from you," was all he said in response.
I growled again, but didn't try to fight him when he started stroking me again,
his other hand now wrapped tightly enough around the base of my cock to keep me
from cumming.
"Fuckin, sadist," I said, not really meaning it so much as being annoyed I had
to wait.
"You won't be saying that soon," he purred into my ear.
* And you've never done this before ... hard to believe ... *
Eventually he let me cum, sucking the tip into his mouth. I was tempted to try
and shove him off — there was no way he was ready for that — but he wouldn't
allow it. Just as I went to try, he pinned my wrists again. I felt a whimper
pass through my lips as I spilled inside his mouth. I had to give him credit at
least, he knew exactly what to do to get me off and did it. He even knew what
to do to keep me from fighting — use pain and keep me from getting what I
wanted at all costs — and still managed to come out on top.
* Well, I wouldn't call sucking and swallowing on top, but he is holding me the
fuck down while doing it ... *
When I was clean (more credit there since he drank everything down) he pulled
back and zipped me up. He also did up the belt. The grip on my wrists tightened
once more, a whimper slipping out of me before I could stop it.
"You want more of this you behave damnit. That means no more hurting me like
this ya got it?"
I forced myself to nod, all I wanted to do was beg him to fuck me.
* He did everything I want in a lover ... this is way too good to be true ... *
"Ryu?" he asked, the name striking a cord inside me. It meant dragon.
* Mom called me that once, before she started ignoring me ... *
I bit my lip, refusing to answer. One of his hands left my wrist, gently
stroking along my cheek.
"That's not something I should call you is it?"
I gulped, making myself focus on the here and now.
"I-it's fine, it'll be nice to have someone call me that and mean it."
The hand on my face tightened, gripping my jaw almost painfully. Well, almost
painfully for me, not a regular person. My pain tolerance was understandably
higher than the average persons' after the fucking experiments all those years
ago. And of course, the near-real idea of more pain got my heart racing and
blood heating up again.
"You wanna talk or grope me? If you keep hurtin' me — which feels way too
fuckin' good to be healthy — all you're gonna do is get me started again."
"Hmmm, thought I was imagining that. Pain really ... gets you goin'?"
"Fuck yes," I replied, wrenching his hand from my face and pressing it against
the (once again) growing bulge in my pants.
"Just that little amount of pain did this,"
"Fuck,"
"Exactly, and damn, if we weren't in a public place right now ..."
He chuckled nervously.
"That I don't think I'm ready for just yet. I already pushed things too much. I
haven't ... fucked things up have I?"
I smirked, kissing him roughly, stealing a very short kiss.
"If you beat me, we could do more of this. If not, you'll have to wait till
after I beat the gym here."
"Deal," he said, squeezing me through my jeans.
"Just make sure you don't lose on purpose,"
* Not like I would, it would feel too wrong to just give up. Go against
everything I believe in. *
— — —
"You're next Croconaw!"
"Blitz it's your turn!"
* Let's see how you deal with this. He uses a similar combo, but his is much
faster and will tire you out quickly if I have him use the upgraded version. *
Which of course, I would.
* * * *
"Rage,"
"Teleport and use Ice punch,"
"Hn, an ice attack ... you really wanna lose don't you?"
* No actually ... *
The attack hit with a dull thwack and I smirked.
"I'm just gettin' started."
"Teleport, Psychic,"
"What the fuck man? Do you always havta do that?"
"Yes, since you strategize so much, why don't you counter it?"
"I haven't figured that out yet,"
I snorted. "You mean every time you try you can't help but think about me,
which distracts you soooo much you can't get any thinkin' done,"
"Grrr ... Rage,"
"Just keep things up,"
The combo was too much for the water-type. With Psychic (a much stronger move
than Confusion) this combo would be a handful for anyone without type
advantages.
"You're done," I said, ordering one last volley of the attacks.
The final Psychic took Croconaw out of the battle.
* * * *
"Go! Sneasel!"
"Finish this up Ash!"
Blitz went back in his ball and the fire type came out. Aerron lay his head on
my shoulder again, which prompted a very obvious growl from Silver.
"It's not my fault he likes me," I said in response.
"You're encouraging it,"
"No, I'm not doing anything but being friendly. Besides, as long as all he does
is be affectionate it doesn't bother me."
"You want him then?"
"Not like you're implying. He's a friend, a friend who likes to protect me. If
that's what he wants to do, I won't be stoppin' him,"
"Fair enough," Silver agreed grudgingly.
* * * *
"Quick attack,"
"Howl, then dodge,"
"Not happening, Faint attack!"
* Not good ... *
"Quick attack,"
Ash just barely avoided the dark-type move.
* That was close ... *
"Quick attack then Flame wheel,"
"Quick attack then Fury swipes,"
* Hope he hits first ... *
I was lucky, Ash's attack landed first. The ice type hit the ground hard, but
got up.
"Quick attack and then Flame wheel again."
This was a combo actually. The Quick attack, while typically not landing, sped
up his next attack so much it was nearly impossible to dodge. It also made the
attack stronger due to the extra power and momentum. It was something we'd
trained long and hard to achieve, but definitely paid off.
When the combo hit, the ice type did not get up. Ash came over to me and lay
his head against my knee. I ran my hands lightly over the flames, then just let
them warm me as I pulled back just enough to feel the heat. That was another
thing that would seal the deal with Silver. If he was nice and warm (which was
pretty likely) I would have a hard time resisting.
* As strong as I am I turn into fuckin' goo if there is a guy willing to hurt
me, dominate me, and is nice and warm ... Kinda pathetic isn't it? *
* * * *
"'thought you wanted more?" Silver asked when our last pokemon were either
recalled (in his case) or sent off the battle field.
I shrugged. "I do, but this gym is what I wanna do first,"
"You're runnin' then?"
"No, but we do need to talk before we 'do m.'"
He sighed. "I agree. I have lots of questions for you."
I snorted. "Hopefully my little slip in control helped with that. I'm what they
call a class 70 Psy — border on Emotional render as well as being an impossibly
powerful Psychometric. And yes, that is what was done to me when I was
kidnapped. They did so many things to me ..."
"And why didn't you just tell me?"
It was my turn to sigh.
"Would you have believed me? We barely know each other, so the 'trust' thing
isn't exactly high right now. Look, I know you have questions, and I will
answer them, but I need to know something first."
"Yeah?"
"Do you think I'm a freak?"
(He is biting his lip. Can I hurt him if he says 'yes"')
"You wanna hurt a human now?"
(If he hurts you then yes. Ash and Aerron are more than willing as well. Even
the baby says he will help.)
It was saying something for the little guy (who usually just stayed in my arms)
to want to hurt someone.
* Maybe he's got a darker streak in him ... *
"I ... Look, this stuff is weird, but no, I don't,"
I sighed. "And before you ask, I was talkin' to Klefki. Another thing they did,
somehow I can hear his voice in my head, but can't respond back mentally."
"That's ... you're not makin' that up?"
"Does it sound sane enough to be made up?"
"Alright, I believe you."
"Do you? Is it only that you might think I was telling the truth about my
powers and are paranoid I'll use them against you now you know what I am
capable of?"
* And that wasn't even half of it if the files I stole before leaving are to be
believed ... *
"What? I know that was an accident. And at first, I caused it anyway."
"We are talkin' about that stupid question you asked earlier right?"
"Yeah,"
"I ... it's painful to even think about what they did, that's why I wanted you
to look shit up. You seem like a resourceful guy, you got good information
right?"
"Yeah,"
The words 'more resourceful than you want to know' popped into my head. Before
I could stop myself I asked:
"Why?"
"Why what?"
"You're hiding something aren't you? I didn't actively try, but I just heard
you think: more than you want to know. What the fuck does that mean?"
He sighed. "You know those Team rocket guys you've been runnin' into?"
"How did you know that? You haven't been spyin' on me have you?"
The question was phrased and intoned as light and joking, but I really did want
to know.
"No, I ..."
"You what?"
"I was a member of Team rocket ... until a few weeks ago,"
* What???! *
"Now you're fuckin' with me aren't you?"
"No, I'm not. I'm the son of Giovanni, the head of Team rocket."
I rolled my eyes.
"If you're his son, why would you leave?"
"He's been dealing with some ... shady people and I didn't want to be a part of
the fall-out, which I am sure is coming."
"People like who?"
"Well, they have files on this thing called Cyphr ..."
There was probably more, but I tuned it out.
* You did not just say that?! *
"Back up man. Did you just say Cyphr? As in C. i. people. have. rather.?"
"Yeah what about it?"
I clenched my fists, hearing Ash's flames grow higher and louder, Aerron and
Eevee's growls, and Klefki's furious jangling. I winced.
"Guys stop, it hurts,"
Thankfully they did.
"What's so 'bad' about them?" Silver pressed.
"I will only say this once," I said, my nails digging bloody furrows into my
palms.
"Cyphr. is. who. did. this. to. me."
"You're bleeding,"
"I know,"
Eventually I told him what I could about the organization, which wasn't much. I
had the files, but I'd have to did through my pack to find them, and didn't
really feel like it at the moment.
"So I'll see you tonight then?" Silver asked.
I nodded. "I'll call you after the gym battle. Hell, you can watch if you
want."
"That wouldn't ... I don't know, bother you?"
I grinned. "Might be a little distractin' but nothin' I can't handle as long as
you stay in the stands and don't get too close."
"Sounds good, see you then,"
"Silver,"
"Yeah?"
"If you're goin' ta train and catch pokemon, get some extras. I have things I
could trade and if you can only find one of something, I can probably duplicate
it."
"How?"
"I have a Ditto,"
"Lucky. I'll do that."
— — —
I'd gotten 1408 from beating Silver, which was doubled to 2816 ... which was
then cut and put lowered to 1408 — the amount I kept. Lucario had been holding
the Amulet coin to make this possible. I battled a few trainers (all items were
found by the fire-normal duo earlier) and then went downstairs.
Down there I got 1 Revive, and 1 Antidote. I captured a Koffing and 2 Magmar.
The Koffing seemed rather useless, but I could trade the second fire type. I
thought I'd smelled the scent of a fire-type around Silver. This was something
I knew quite well since I owned 4 of them, and had trained with or was using at
least 2 at a time.
* If I was smelling a fire-type, he might want another one. *
(He was walking around with that Sneasel of his and something I didn't
recognize earlier ...)
The thought could not have come at a better time.
I slid the pack off my shoulders, drawing a pokemon from memory. It was a
unique combination of dark-type and fire-type.
"Did it look like this?" I asked.
(Exactly like that.)
"That's a Houndour. They're kinda rare, but really cool from what I've read.
Dark and fire type at the same time ..."
(Sounds ... deadly,)
"Sounds fuckin' awesome if you ask me. Besides Fire and Psychic types — and
fighting of course — I always wanted a dark-type."
(Why not ask Momo for one?)
"I don't need to. I already have the building block for the one I want the
most."
(What do you mean?)
I rubbed at Eevee's ears, hearing the baby snoring softly.
* Guess all that running around with Ash wore him out. *
"Eevee evolves into Umbreon, one of the best dark-types found in Johto."
(Ah, I have heard of that one. The people who had me said an 'adversary and
traitor' had one along with something called Espeon.)
"Espeon's the psychic evolution of Eevee, which I might get, not sure yet,"
— — —
(There are three very large pokemon nearby.)
I could 'feel' great power, but had no idea what it was. It was so strong, I
thought it might be more than one 'thing.' I barely heard what Klefki said.
* Three pokemon? The Legendary dogs maybe? *
I started moving toward the power source, hoping I could find out what it was.
Before I could I heard a sound (like jumping maybe) and the power disappeared.
(Three pokemon just 'hopped' then left.)
I could feel that the power was completely gone, as if the pokemon weren't even
in the building anymore.
I climbed the stairs.
(They have left the building,)
"Kinda figured that,"
I stepped outside.
(The yellow one went east and the red one went west.)
"There were three you said, where's the other one?"
(I don't know where the blue one went,)
"Yellow red and blue how ironic,"
Yellow, Red, and Blue were the first Pokedex holders according to the books I'd
read in school.
* Wonder what they're all doing now? *
 
Silver, Tuesday, 18:00 (Route 38) —
 
A call came through on my Pokegear as I walked along the route. The number was
unfamiliar. Someone named 'professor oak' wanted to see me. When I told him
where I was, he said to go back to Ecruteak. He was going to meet me there
apparently.
— — —
"You are Silver Rocketo?" an old man asked as I entered the conference room.
The nurse had led me here, saying an old man was looking for me.
"Yeah what of it?"
"I should have done this a while ago,"
A slim black device was handed to me.
I flipped open the lid and blinked several times, almost dropping it. Inside
were inscribed the words 'silver and blue forever.'
* Blue ... why does that name mean something? I don't know anyone named that
... *
"She wanted you to have it ... she knew you'd react like this. She said it was
time for you to remember, and if you had someone you could trust that you
should let them help,"
"Who are you talkin' about?" I asked.
"Blue of course. The 'dex holder Blue. You really don't remember her do you?"
"No. This is all a joke isn't it?" I asked angrily.
"No it's not. She was sure her name would ... mean something. I have to get
back to my research. I need you to use that Pokedex and gather info on Pokemon
for me. I already have Murasaki and Lyra from New bark town working on it, but
it's better to have more ... even if they are the son of a crime lord and a
former criminal themselves."
I bristled at that.
"No no son, nothing to be ashamed of. At least you're not with them anymore
right?"
I nodded and he left.
 
Murasaki, Tuesday, 18:05 (Ecruteak city) —
 
Eusine came and chatted with me outside, saying something about the Legendary
dogs. I was so overwhelmed by what had been happening the last few hours, I
barely paid attention. I taught Growlithe Strength (at Klefki's suggestion) and
walked back inside the tower, going back downstairs. Tm 12 Taunt was behind the
boulders in the basement. I put it away and then left for the city again.
— — —
I bought some poke balls (9 of them) before doing anything else. In the 'center
I overheard a conversation while I waited for my pokemon to be healed. Two boys
(fans of trainers by the sound of it) were discussing Morty, the gym leader
here in Ecruteak. They mentioned he used ghost types, and 'how awesome' they
were.
* I'll havta center my team around dealin' with 'em then. *
I decided my team was perfect to deal with ghosts so I didn't change it. I had
Quilava, Klefki, Kirlia, Lucario, Eevee, and Growlithe. I'd heard that ghosts
were weak against psychic, dark, and fire type moves. I had all right here,
Lucario's Dark pulse making up the 'dark' part of the equation. I did want to
evolve Eevee first though, which would be a genuine dark-type to use. Plus,
Umbreon were just awesome and I really wanted one.
At the gym I defeated all the trainers, making sure to start out with (and do
most of the work with) Aerron, before letting Eevee take some exp by switching
to him at the end of each fight with an opponent's pokemon. He was a normal-
type, but as of now he had no attack that could do damage to a ghost. So yeah,
this was the best way to level him up. Before any of the battles though, I gave
him the Soothe bell. I'd heard something somewhere about needing a certain
amount of happiness to evolve Eevee into Umbreon, but wasn't sure how much.
After healing I called Momo. I asked her about how to evolve Eevee into
Umbreon. She told me I needed to get its happiness to 220 at night while
training. He was already very happy, but after checking the amount with the
Pokedex, I decided some more training was in order. I had a few other things I
wanted to do first though.
— — —
At the National park, I competed in a contest. I captured a lv 14 Scyther,
which won me first place. I got a Sun stone for winning, which I was happy
about. I could now evolve Gloom into Bellosom. After the contest was over I
went and snagged a Sunkern, reminding myself to join another contest the next
time they were available for a second Sun stone to evolve it.
Since I near it, I went to the Pokeathlon stadium. I bought 2 Yellow apricorns
and 1 Pink, making a shake for Eevee. I gave it to him and then entered him
(along with Blitz and Aerron) in several competitions. I counted 5 more ribbons
before stopping. All the competitions I'd won with first place.
I made my way to the counter and asked what prizes there were for the day.
After Klefki helped me out with the list, I purchased 2 more Yellow apricorns,
another Moomoo milk, 2 Fire stones, and a Pp up. That all cost 6600 p points,
which wasn't a problem since I had plenty.
I put everything away, then went for my next errand, selling Rare candies. I
sold 2 for 5600 in Goldenrod's department store. I also picked up a Lottery
ticket (for the usual 300 poke dollars) and won tm 60 Drain punch.
— — —
Back in Azalea town I picked up the Fast ball I'd wanted Kurt to make. I left 2
Yellow apricorns with him, which he told me would make Moon balls — for
catching pokemon that evolved with Moon stones. On the way to Azalea I'd found
and snagged a Lapras in the water on the basement floor of Union cave, which
I'd work with later. She was lv 20.
I traversed Union cave once more in order to get back to Violet city. I coulda
gone through Ilex forest to Goldenrod then onto Ecruteak from there, but it
would have taken so much longer. At least this way I could get to Violet city
and then go to Ecruteak through the shortcut where Sudowoodo once was.
— — —
On Route 37 I took the time to level everyone up to lv 30. Eevee was the
exception to this of course. It was 17:30 — close, but not close enough to
night time to evolve him.
Route 42 was where I found myself next. I spent some time looking for a Mankey,
another fighting type. I finally found and caught one, night falling right
after. That is when I started Eevee's training again.
After the battles in the gym, he was already lv 12. Two levels later, Eevee
evolved into Umbreon. I stood there, running my hands along his body, (which he
was used to by now and didn't seem to mind) marveling at how awesome he now
looked. Umbreon was fantastic overall, but I'd loved the look of them after
Momo'd shown me a picture of one some years before. I took the time to level
him to 30 — which would make him equal with the others.
— — —
At the gym I did pretty well. Kirlia took down the Gastly and one Haunter,
Lucario took down the Gengar, and Umbreon (which was now named Zephyr) trounced
the last Haunter. Since psychic moves were good against ghosts, Kirlia had
little trouble. The other two just used their dark-type moves. I coulda used
Quilava or Growlithe here, but it wasn't necessary.
I got the Fog badge, tm 30 shadow ball, and 5520 for winning. That was then
divided down to equal 2760. I taught Shadow ball to Zephyr then exited the gym.
***** chapter 9 *****
* * * chapter IX * * *
- Trades, Training, and Miscellaneous
Author's note: All eggs in my story start at lv 1 after being hatched. Not sure
if eggs can be traded in HGSS, but they will be able to be traded in this
story.
 
Murasaki, 22:01 (Ecruteak city) —
 
In the 'center I healed everyone, pulling out my Pokegear to make a call.
"Hello,"
"Hey Hunter, I finished at the gym,"
* Should I be callin' him that? *
"Hn, you win?"
"Yeah,"
"So where are you at right now?" he asked.
"Healing at the 'center,"
"Why don't you come to my room, we still need to talk remember."
* And do more I hope ... *
I could just imagine how he'd react, slamming me against a wall (or the door)
and swallowing my shocked cry with a searing kiss that would leave me
breathless.
* Arceus damn ... *
"... you still there?"
"Yeah, sorry,"
"In your own little world?"
* How did you know? * I thought sarcastically.
"Yep,"
"So, see you in a bit then?"
"Sure,"
— — —
I stood in front of the door to Silver's room, trying to make my hand move.
* Knock already! Your pokemon aren't here to make fun of you and you know you
want to ... *
Even Klefki had stayed in my room. I took a deep breath and knocked softly.
"Hey, thought you'd never knock,"
I shrugged.
"This is kinda awkward for me too. Haven't really felt ... like this before."
"What do you mean? Come in before you answer that,"
I stepped inside, immediately smelling a scent that was so familiar. I wanted
to curl up on the bed and just lie there, his scent surrounding me. His voice
brought me out of my fantasy.
"You alright?"
"Yeah, just a little overwhelmed."
"By what?"
I bit my lip.
"This is your domain. Well, you've stayed here for a little while, so it's ...
Your emotions and scent are all over this room ..."
* Fuck it, might as well have told him you're fuckin' obsessed right? *
"... ok. Think you can explain that a little more?"
"I ... To a non-psychic it's probably hard to understand. You leave a kind of
'footprint' where ever you go. All people do really, and someone like me, a
Psychometric on the highest end of the scale ... it's even stronger to me."
I ran a hand through my hair in frustration, 'feeling' his confusion.
* Maybe being sighted for him might help here ... *
"Look at it like this. Normally someone would leave an afterimage, some sort of
color that a Psychometric might be able to pick up on. In your living space,
even though it's only where you might have slept, the color is brighter. Just
not colors when its me obviously, but I've heard of some that see like that who
are like me."
"So you're saying because I've stayed in this room, what you feel is stronger
... than you would normally 'feel' from me?"
I nodded. "Exactly,"
"So ... uh, who goes first?" I asked finally, walking toward him.
I placed a hand on his arm, having to hold back a shiver at the contact. I
could feel his interest in me (not just in a sexual way) and it was not only
overwhelming, but also surprising.
* I thought sex was all he wanted the first time we kissed, but I'm pretty sure
I was wrong ... *
"You I guess ..."
I raised an eyebrow in his direction.
"What do ya wanna know?"
There was silence for a moment.
"Why not how your powers work? The book I found gave some explanations, but was
kind of vague on any ... specific Psychometric."
I sighed, letting my fingers start a slow circular pattern on his wrist. It was
actually calming somehow.
* That's something I should remember for later ... *
"What, not going to tell me now that we're alone?" he asked angrily.
I grimaced, gripping his wrist just tight enough to keep him from walking away.
"No, just give me a minute to gather my thoughts. That's a much more complex
question than I'm sure you realize,"
I quested with my other hand, dragging it along his arm 'till I found his face.
I cupped his cheek lightly.
"I will tell you," I said with finality, tempted to just kiss him and smooth
away the anger I could 'feel' slowly leaving him.
"Ok." he said, one of his hands landing atop mine on his face.
A few minutes later I was as ready as I would ever be.
"Basically, when I enter a building or area, I can sense several things about
it. The people and pokemon are the easiest, since they have emotions, but
objects also give off a sort of emotional charge. When someone touches an
object, they leave a small impression of themself on it, not unlike the
'footprint' I told you about earlier. This one is much fainter, more like
'someone was here' and not 'someone is here.' Does this make sense so far?"
"I think so. You really feel all that? Being in a Department store must be hell
on you."
"Yeah, it is. The Game corner in Goldenrod was a lot worse though."
"Why's that?"
I shrugged. "So many emotions, most of them desperate or depressing."
"Shit ..."
"If there are strong enough thoughts in an area I will 'feel' those too. For
example ... In Azalea I arrived just in time to see a Rocket grunt torturing a
woman. I 'felt' his malice and eagerness to harm."
"Was it more like thoughts, or actually emotions?"
"If I'd been closer or actually touching him I coulda gotten thoughts easily."
"But you can't actually read minds?"
"I could if someone was frantic enough or trusted me. By touching them I would
only get the thoughts on the surface though unless they wanted me to get more."
"How does that work?"
"If they want to give me more they would 'project' the thoughts consciously.
Normally someone just thinks, and I 'hear' their thoughts when I am able. When
they do it on purpose, I can get more."
"That goes with what I read ..." I heard Silver mutter.
"So is there any more to this Psychometry thing?"
"Yeah. It used to just be that I could get the information when I was really
close to its source. Now though, it seems like if I concentrate enough, I could
find out exactly who was in a building or area, and what they were feeling."
"Sounds like a lot to process,"
"Sure fuckin' is,"
"So what about ... what did you call it? Talking in your mind with your
pokemon?"
I sighed, biting my lip.
"I don't have any material for you to read on that."
"I don't care about that anymore."
* You sure about that? *
I must have had a disbelieving expression on my face because he gripped my jaw
tightly and turned my head.
"Look, I know all this would sound a little nuts to anyone else, but if I
didn't believe you would I be askin' about it?"
"Guess not ..."
He let me go, a hand landing on my shoulder.
"I can 'connect' with — it's only pokemon as far as I know right now — more
than others. When I still thought Klefki was a key he thought something and I
heard it. I'm not a Telepath, but if surface thoughts are there I can pick them
up. Telepaths can read minds, that's their special power."
"So that's how it started then?"
I sighed. "Hunter, I'm pretty sure this thing with pokemon is from the
experiments done on me 12 years ago, not my natural talents."
A growl could be heard, and with my enhanced senses it was almost deafening.
"Whoever this Cyphr or Ciphr are, they are so dead when I find them."
I chuckled. "My thoughts exactly."
— — —
"So tell me about when you worked with Team rocket," I said, sitting on the bed
next to him.
There was a sigh from the other boy.
"Other than specific missions and objectives there's not much to tell. I was
part of one of the worst criminal organizations in the world, and up until ...
four or five years ago that didn't bother me. I was hurting both humans and
pokemon, but I just couldn't make myself care."
I hummed.
"So why'd you join in the first place?"
"It was a family tradition you could say. I lived on the streets for a while
'till I heard about Team R. Word was they could make someone strong, even a kid
like me. So I went to join up, finding out Giovanni, the leader, was my
father."
"How did you find that out?"
"Not hard really. Though he has a different muscle structure than me, we look a
lot alike. Of course, I musta gotten this hair color from my mom,"
I reached out, sliding fingers along his shoulder until they brushed against
something softer.
"What color is it?"
"Before I answer that, tell me something,"
"Hmmm?"
"You are actually blind right? I mean, your ... other senses don't cloud up
visuals do they?"
I chuckled.
"What?!"
"When you say it like that, I sound like a fuckin' robot. No, my eyes don't
work ... so yeah, blind is the word you want here,"
He sighed in relief, placing a hand on my arm.
"So ... uh?"
It was his turn to chuckle now.
"It's red, like fire-engine red."
"And that's the natural color?" I asked, grasping a few strands of said hair
and running my fingers through it.
He hummed. "Yeah,"
All was silent for a moment.
"So, you said you were part of Team R. Won't they come after you when they
notice you've left?"
He lightly smacked me on the arm.
"If you'd let me talk Ryu, you'd know the answer to that."
I rolled my eyes at him.
"Alright, alright," he said, taking one of my hands in his. He started rubbing
the skin gently as he began to speak.
"They will come looking, but won't have an easy time finding me."
I smirked, shoving his shoulder lightly then placing my head on said shoulder.
"What, you in disguise?"
"Yeah actually,"
He went on to explain what he'd done to 'hide' himself from them.
"So, you think different colored eyes and clothes will really work?" I asked,
wishing he was still wearing the jacket he'd mentioned so I could touch it.
* It probably smells like him too ... *
His scent was ... predatory is the best word I can think of to describe it. Not
like he used that behavior a lot, but more like he could if he wanted to. So
more of a lazy wolf that only proves itself when it wants to.
* Thus 'hunter' ... *
"You'll be surprised how well little changes like that actually work," he said,
running a hand through my hair.
"What did you usually do for them anyway?" I wanted to know.
"Mostly steal pokemon and collect information ... all through illegal means of
course. You never explained the 'render' thing."
I smirked, squeezing his wrist lightly.
"You sure you wanna know?"
"If it might happen again, you losing control, I wanna know what you're capable
of."
I bit my lip.
"I can 'shove' my own emotions or those of others at a person like an almost
physical force. Think of the emotions as just sitting there ... like water
maybe. I can form them into a wall or knife and use them to fight with. If
there's enough will behind the action, I can do physical damage."
At some point one of Silver's hands must have landed on my hip, 'cause I
noticed it keenly as he rubbed the spot.
* So more it is then ... *
I smirked, grasping his shoulders tightly, pressing my lips against his. He
responded in kind, his hands circling my wrists and squeezing tightly.
* Shit ... *
Before I knew what was happening I was pinned beneath him on the bed, my wrists
held in a bruising grip. I managed to break the kiss, panting lightly.
"Harder ..." I practically begged.
He complied, increasing the strength of his grip. I felt rather than heard the
moan that escaped my lips.
I couldn't move much, so I just connected our lips again. When I did however,
he immediately took control of the kiss. I whined in the back of my throat as
he broke it, not liking the lack of contact. He nuzzled my neck then crashed
our lips together, repeating what he'd done a few days before. I felt like I
was being devoured, and fucking loved it.
I had no idea how long the intense make-out session lasted, but at some point
he pulled back for air and lay his head on my shoulder. The pressure around my
wrists loosened and I was able to move more. I ran a hand through his unbound
hair, loving the feel of it.
* It's really hot he's let it grow out so long ... *
I was content to just lie there for a while until I felt something hard
pressing against me. I wasn't exactly shocked by the idea itself, but rather
awed that only kissing could 'cause that reaction in him.
* Gonna love this if all it takes is kissing to get him started ... *
I smirked, my free hand moving down to grip his cock through the pants he wore.
A quiet curse was the reaction I got.
* You won't be cursin' when I'm done with ya. Hmmm you might, but it won't be
just 'fuck' it'll be more like 'fuck yeah.' *
A few minutes later I was on top of him, his dick in my mouth. It didn't take
long for me to swallow most of it. I couldn't heal quicker than a regular
human, but pain tended to not scare me so much. Ten minutes later (with little
breaks) I had the whole thing down my throat, sucking eagerly. Silver's hands
were in my hair, tugging lightly and urging me on.
All I could think was 'hell yeah' and 'you're so big.' Occasionally I'd pull
back just enough to tongue his slit before going back to sucking. It didn't
take too long for him to come like this — the creamy liquid eagerly being
swallowed.
Once I'd licked up everything (making sure he was completely clean) I lay my
head against his thigh. His hands slowly carded through my hair, soothing in a
way I didn't think possible.
* He really knows how to make me feel better ... and he barely knows me ... *
"Ryu?"
I hummed. "Yeah?"
"Can I uh ..."
I blinked, confused.
"Can you what?"
He cleared his throat nervously.
"Mind if I try that too?"
It took me a few minutes to figure out what he meant.
"You wanna suck me off?"
"Yeah,"
I smiled, nuzzling his neck.
"Go ahead,"
He took his time, licking around the crown and slit before finally taking what
he could into his mouth. He was actually bigger than me, but he only managed
most (not all like me). I wasn't going to complain though: it felt soooo good.
I had a tight grip on his shoulders, trying to keep from thrusting into the
warm wet heat of his mouth.
* He's not ready for that yet ... *
To my surprise he pulled off my dick completely, his emotions spiking. They had
been all of lust and desire before, but now were a mixture of irritation and
lust.
* What did I do? *
"You're holdin' back," he accused, digging his nails into my wrists just hard
enough to draw blood.
I moaned, bucking against him. He chuckled, circling his hand around the base
of my cock to keep me from coming.
* Damn it ... *
"Why are you holding back?" he asked.
The tone of his voice was light, but the emotions I could 'feel' from him
promised harm if I didn't answer.
* What's his deal? *
"Y-you're not ready for me to ... thrust into your mouth while you're taking me
in just yet. This is your first time right?"
He snickered. "Let me be the judge of that,"
And before I could stop him he was engulfing me again, taking even more in than
previously.
* Fuck ... *
— — —
I hummed contentedly as I rested my head on his shoulder. After sucking every
last drop from me Silver'd helped me out of my clothes, leaving my boxers on.
It was my request that we both strip to underwear, the opportunity to sample
his body heat was just too good to pass up. He was really warm like I'd
thought, something which I was grateful for.
Though I was obviously male, sometimes my body temperature ran a little colder
than usual. Due to the experiments this wasn't a serious problem to my health,
but it did make me react oddly around heat sources. One of the documents I had
from when I was 'kidnapped' mentioned that I may have been exposed to the DNA
of a snake pokemon. There was no other evidence pointing to this theory, but if
true, it would make sense. It would definitely explain why I seemed so
enraptured by Ash's heat patches while they were active.
Once we were both calmed down from our activities I'd asked if it was alright
for me to stay the night in Silver's room. He had no problem with that, even
seemed to like the idea. So that's how I came to be curled up against his
chest, skin to skin, lazy-limbed and happy. Thankfully for us all of his
pokemon were in their balls for the night.
 
Silver, Wednesday, 10:00 (Ecruteak city Pokemon center) —
 
It took me several minutes to figure out why things felt off to me when I woke
up. I blinked my eyes open, hoping to find out that way. There was something
soft and pretty light on top of me. I looked down to see white-purple hair and
tanned skin.
* So I didn't dream any of that. He really was here last night ... Oh, and I
sucked him last night too ... *
I could remember my own performance vaguely, but his efforts were etched into
my mind like a chiseled statue.
* Damn that felt soooo good. Hope he wants to do it again. *
I gently shook his shoulder, not really wanting to wake him, but knowing it was
late enough for both of us to be waking up for the day. A glance to my Pokegear
confirmed this: the black numbers 10:10 displayed.
After helping gather up his clothes (which I had forgotten to fold up and put
into a neat pile) Murasaki left. This bothered me; I was normally a lot neater.
* I'll just havta work on that then. *
I let all my pokemon out, rummaging in my pack for their food. After locating
it I set to work putting together a suitable breakfast for myself.
 
Murasaki, Wednesday, 10:20 (Ecruteak city Pokemon center) —
 
Once everyone was fed (including me) I met Silver in the 'center's lobby.
"Was wonderin' if ya wanted ta trade with me today?" I asked.
I was aware of how my phrasing sounded, but was unable to really do anything
about it. I got a little tongue-tied when nervous. Last night had gone well,
but I had no idea how I was supposed to act now. This approach, while having
odd speech patterns, would be how I'd treat someone I was familiar and more
comfortable with.
* And hell, I'm even more familiar with him now than I am with Momo ... *
"Sure. What exactly are you looking for?"
"Hmmm," I thought, biting my lip in thought.
"I only have one electric type right now, so let's start with that."
"I just caught a Magnemite — an electric and steel type — along with a Meowth
and a Mankey."
I thought for a moment.
"You want to keep the Magnemite?"
"Yeah, but I can get another one."
I smiled. "Meowth would be cool too. I always wanted it's evolved form."
"Hn, Persian huh?"
"Yeah,"
"So should we get started then?" he asked.
I shook my head, walking forward and placing a hand on his arm. He was wearing
the jacket now, something which pleased me. I really liked the texture of it.
* Fuckin' get ahold of yourself Mura! *
"Not just yet, I wanna put Umbreon in the day care near Goldenrod today."
He placed a hand on top of mine.
"You'd get an Eevee if he bred right?" he asked.
I nodded. "Let's see ..." I heard him say.
(He's pulled out one of those Pokedex things you have and is using it.)
* Lookin' up Eevee no doubt. *
A few minutes (and typing later) he squeezed my hand a little.
"Think I could have one of the eggs if he breeds? I'd really like a Flareon."
* Hmmm, going for mostly fire-types Hunter? *
I smirked. "Thinkin' of becoming a fire-type trainer Hunter?"
There were trainers who chose certain types (gym leaders were notorious for
that sort of thing) but I'd never actually met one.
* Momo is probably border line at this point though ... *
"Maybe,"
"What else do you have?" the other boy asked.
* Oh hell, the list is really long ... *
"Klefki, Quilava, Sentret, Geodude, Fearow, Ledyba, Caterpie, Weedle, Pidgey,
Bellsprout, Noctowl, Onyx, Hoppip, Flaafy, Wooper, Ekans, Haunter, Togepi,
Sandslash, Gyarados, Kirlia, Monferno, Gloom, Paras, Heracross, Aipom, Drowzee,
Abra, Ditto, Krabby, Machop, Dratini, Lucario, Nidoran M, Nidoran F, Poliwag,
Yanma, Growlithe, Vulpix, Stantler, Sudowoodo, Exeggcute, Koffing, Magmar,
Scyther, Sunkern, Lapras, and Mankey."
It was a few minutes before he spoke again.
"Magmar's a fire-type right?"
"Yeah,"
"I also want a Ralts ... What type is Lapras?"
I thought for a moment, trying to remember. I hadn't used Lapras after
capturing it since it was sent to the pc due to me already having six pokemon.
"Water I think. I know it can learn some ice type moves as well,"
"I want that one too then,"
"So Eevee, Magmar, Ralts, and Lapras then?" I asked, trying to confirm things.
"Yeah,"
I laced our fingers together, feeling Ash (knew by the hotter temperature) lean
against my legs.
"What you want for those?"
I thought for a moment, wondering what he had.
"Meowth and Magnemite for sure ... Got any normal or fire types I don't?"
I was going to look for fire-types myself, but if he had one I might as well
check it out.
"I got a Houndour recently ... there should be more normal-types on Route 38."
"Catch me one and we'll call it even. I'll meet you at the day care then?"
"Right,"
— — —
The first thing I did after dropping off Umbreon in the pc was grab Dratini and
add him to the team. I gave him the Lucky egg and started leveling him,
snagging a Ditto for Silver when one showed up.
* This should make things easier ... *
The dragon-type was surprisingly easy to train. Though only level 15 at first,
he was able to take down most opponents without getting a scratch on him. Since
this was an easier route that made sense. When he was level 20 I went to check
on Umbreon's progress with my Ditto.
There were three eggs, so I put Dratini away, grabbed Umbreon, put three random
pokemon in the pc, and carefully brought the eggs to the pc. I brought Lapras
out next, it was her turn now. After fixing my party I went back outside for
more training.
Dratini had just reached level 22 when my Pokegear rang. The old man from the
day care told me there was an egg, so I went to retrieve it. After dealing with
that I withdrew Kirlia and put him in the day care.
* This is the last one ... at least the last one we discussed ... *
Back outside Dratini leveled some more. He'd just reached lv 25 when I 'felt' a
familiar person approaching.
* Wondered where you were Hunter ... *
A press of a button and the words "twelve-fifteen" could be heard from my
Pokegear.
* Didn't know it'd been that long ... *
— — —
I handed the poke ball containing the Ditto I'd recently found to Silver. He
thanked me and put the Ditto (along with his Houndour) in the day care.
* That's the last one ... It's a good thing eggs can be traded, otherwise this
would take forever. *
While we waited, I took Magmar (I'd caught 2 of them in the Burned tower) and
the Lapras egg from the pc. I also acquired the Ralts egg as well, (noting
there was another one for me to pick up later).
Magmar was traded for Meowth, Magnemite was traded for Eevee, (in egg) and
Ralts was traded for Miltank (which Silver had found and caught for me). In
fact, he'd caught me Meowth and Magnemite of my own as well. Once the Houndour
was done breeding (which took only a short time) the Houndour egg was traded
for the Lapras egg. The last thing I did in the building was get the last Ralts
egg and put it into the pc.
Dratini popped out of his ball as we were about to leave the day care.
"What pokemon is that?" Silver asked.
"Dratini, he's my only dragon type right now,"
There was silence for a moment.
"Can you breed him with Ditto for me?"
I smirked softly, kissing him before picking up the dragon-type.
"Sure,"
— — —
Back on the route we both worked on hatching the eggs we'd gotten. I had
Aerron, Ash, Klefki, and Abra with me along with two of the Eevee eggs. Silver
had his Sneasel, Croconaw, Houndour, and Vulpix with him along with the Eevee
and Ralts eggs I'd given him. I decided to go train near the water (using Surf
and the Old rod both) while Silver stayed in the grass on the route (34).
After a few hours (with small breaks for water and food in between) both of my
Eevee eggs hatched. Silver's eggs must have hatched too since he started in my
direction.
"Yours hatch yet?" he asked.
I smiled. "Just did,"
"So did mine,"
I grinned as my two new baby pokemon ran up behind me. I picked them both up
and rubbed their ears.
"Aren't they cute?" I asked the other boy.
"Yeah they are,"
"Gotta put you guys down for a second," I said as Ash ran up.
(He says he can watch them for you,)
"Thanks Ash,"
I slid my pack off and rummaged inside, finally bringing out a Fire stone,
which I handed to Silver.
"Thanks ... don't you need this though?"
I shrugged. "I'll just get another one later,"
"Alright," he said.
All was silent for a moment, the 'feel' around him going blank.
(He just gave the stone to the Eevee he had out.)
"Flareon!"
* Nice ... now it's my turn ... *
"Hunter?"
"Yeah?"
"I'd like to evolve one of these Eevees. Let's check in at the day care after
that."
"Sounds good,"
Abra was already close to evolving, so I trained him a little. He evolved into
Kadabra at lv 16. I had given the Soothe bell to One of the Eevees, and that
one was leveling nicely as well. When it reached lv 10 it evolved into Espeon.
I kept up the training until lv 15 when he learned Confusion. I'd chosen to
name the sun-pokemon Sol.
— — —
Back inside the day care I put Sol in the pc so I could take the Dratini-egg.
Silver came into the building a few minutes later. I gave him the egg, refusing
another trade.
"No, let's both train our dragons and see which one is stronger."
"Ok," he said, taking the egg from me.
"What you doing after this?" Hunter asked.
I shrugged. "Was thinkin' of training Sol some more (that's my Espeon) and
doing some Pokeathlon competitions. Why?"
"Just wondered ... Let's meet up in Olivine later then. I wanted to do some
training anyway."
"Alright," I said, glad to have time to train, but sad to see him go.
* He'll be back ... *
 
Murasaki, Pokeathlon dome, 15:00 (near Goldenrod city) —
 
I made sure to train Sol some on the way to the dome, but not the other Eevee.
I planned to evolve him into one of the elemental Eevee evolutions later. He
was cuddled up in my arms at the moment, content to just sleep for now.
* Hopefully they'll have one of the stones I need as a prize today. I want a
Flareon, but Vaporeon and Jolteon would be great too ... *
I could have easily evolved the Eevee into Flareon, but just didn't want to.
Several competitions later (in which Aerron, Ash, and Sol kicked ass) I'd won
many more P points. At the prize counter I bought two each of the apricorns
offered for the day and some Water stones. After checking what pokemon I'd need
the stones for I'd decided to buy 2 for now. Now that I had a Water stone, I
could evolve the Eevee in my arms.
I gave him the stone, his emotions going from sleepy to nothing in a matter of
seconds. When they re-appeared, they were volatile but also calm somehow. It
was almost as if he were perpetually angry, but could control that somewhat.
* This will be interesting ... *
"How does Cyan sound for a name?"
(He loves it,)
— — —
On Route 38 I captured Farfetch'd, Tauros, and Snubbull. The last two were
particularly hard to find, but I managed somehow. I also made sure to level up
Sol to lv 20. I would work on Cyan as I kept going.
There were a lot of trainers on the route, so I gave the Lucky egg to Cyan and
the Amulet coin to Sol since I wanted to train both of them. After three
trainer battles (where Cyan got to lv 15 and learned the move Water gun) Momo
called me. She said she'd bought me a Revive, a King's Rock, and 3 more Dusk
balls. I could get the package from the 'center in Olivine city.
The fourth battle was with a girl who said she could sometimes get Thunder
stones for me. I registered her number when it was offered. Ash ran off (along
with a curious Sol). They came back with a wht apricorn and a Max potion. That
was all for Route 38 so I kept moving.
— — —
On Route 39 a man came up to me.
(He is dressed in jeans and a t-shirt,)
"Hello, my name is Baoba." he said.
I shrugged. "Don't take this the wrong way, but who are you?"
"Sorry, should have mentioned that ... I am the manager of the Safari zone here
in Johto."
* Hmmm Momo said the one in Hoenn is pretty useful ... *
"Would you like my number? I can help you with the layout and such when you are
able to come visit the site."
"Sure,"
After I typed the number into the Pokegear he left. I continued along the
route, getting Cyan to lv 20 just like Sol. I stopped for a bit to find out
what tm's and hm's they could learn. I taught Sol Psychic (tm 29) Dig (tm 28)
Shadow ball (tm 30) and Flash (tm 70) for now. Cyan learned Ice beam (tm 13)
Surf (hm 03) and Return (tm 27). Since he already knew the move Wish, I let him
keep that.
(There is an apricorn tree nearby.)
I ran into the tree and picked up the apricorn (which Klefki told me was
green). Ash ran off (with both Eevee evolutions now following him). Aerron lay
his head on my shoulder, the aura I 'felt' from him calm and happy.
The three runaways brought back a Pp up, an X attack, and a Nugget. I walked
around a little, thinking about how horrible the cows (Miltank Klefki informed
me) smelled. When I stopped to get a drink of water a little while later, Sol
ran off and came back with tm 24 Thunder bolt.
* Musta learned how to do that from Ash ... *
(There is a house here,)
"Alright alright, we'll go in,"
As I walked toward the house I started hearing strange noises. Whatever they
were they sounded pained, so I kept moving, hoping to find whoever (or
whatever) was in pain. Eventually the sounds led me to a shed near the house
(Klefki told me where I was) and there was a sick pokemon there. Klefki said it
was a Miltank.
I checked my items, pulling out a Super potion.
* I hope this works ... *
The cow only mooed loudly when I brought the item to it.
* What do I use then? It probably won't like the Potions or Max potion I have
if it freaks out from this ... *
I put the potion away and on a whim checked on the berry pots. There were
several (10 Oran berries) and I started feeding them to the cow. After eating 7
it was fully healed.
Once the cow was healed a girl came up to me. She gave me what she called a
Seal case. When I asked her about it she said seals were put into poke balls to
make the 'entrance' of a pokemon more dramatic. I had no idea what I'd use them
for, but thanked her anyway. Before I could leave the shed another girl came up
to me and gave me alphabet seals a b and can.
Inside the house, a lady gave me tm 83 Natural gift. She said I needed berries
to use the attack, so I reminded myself to get as many as possible when I
could. There was also a man inside that sold Moomoo milk. Since it was cheap
and useful, I bought a dozen from him. I could have bought them one at a time
but this worked better for me.
— — —
In Olivine city I picked up Momo's package, also healing my party while I was
at the 'center. When I left the building I 'felt' Silver nearby.
He came up and put a hand on my shoulder.
"Hey,"
"How'd the training go?" I asked.
"Not too bad. The Safari zone guy find you too?"
I chuckled. "Yeah,"
"The gym's closed for now. The leader is 'taking care of personal business.'"
"What's that supposed ta mean?"
"That's what I'd like to know,"
"You checked out the city yet?" I asked.
"No. There's some water near the edge though ... I'd kinda like to go sit by
it."
* Must be a sighted person thing ... *
"Ok, we'll meet up there after I've checked things out around here then?"
"Alright,"
— — —
In a house near the 'center a man gave me a Good rod. He said I could get
better pokemon than the Old rod when I used it. I smiled and thanked him,
planning on trying it out later. In another house near the 'center a little
girl gave me some more seals. In a different house there was a guy who said
he'd trade me a Voltorb for a Krabby. I didn't really need that pokemon
(another electric type according to the Pokedex) at the moment, but would come
back for the trade later. Ash ran off and came back with a Full heal before I
started looking for Silver.
I concentrated, trying to make myself relax. Inside a building finding people
seemed to be easier (I think it had to do with the amount of space) but in a
city it wasn't so easy. Eventually I gave up the Psychic-search, using my nose
to find water. The first time I came up dry, he wasn't there. As I walked away
from that water though I started to 'feel' him nearby.
* Yes! *
— — —
"Do anything fun over here?" I asked as I sidled up to him.
Cyan curled himself around my legs as I leaned against the boy's shoulder.
"What the?"
"Sorry about that. Cyan's been really protective since he evolved. I can tell
him to move if he's botherin' ya."
"Is that a Vaporeon?" he asked.
"Yeah," I said with a huge smile.
He kissed my cheek.
"We're in public, he's fine,"
* So if we weren't you'd want him gone so you could touch me then? *
Out loud I said:
"So what do we do now?"
He hummed.
"Should be able to get some decent pokemon by surfing or fishing around here."
"How about we take turns then. I'll start with fishing and you can Surf first."
He put a hand on my wrist, squeezing hard.
* What was that for? ... oh ... *
I immediately felt my body react, suddenly wanting the pokemon gone.
"Sorry about that, missed you most of the day."
"We've been together a lot more than when we first met." I tried to reason,
still feeling a little flustered from the jolt of pain earlier.
"Yeah ... Look Ryu, there's no need for us both to surf and fish. We can just
both get duplicates and trade them."
I nodded, putting my hand on top of his on my wrist.
"Ok,"
So that's what we did, Silver surfing while I fished. I managed to catch
another Krabby (which I would use in the trade with the Voltorb guy) and a
Corsola. The latter was very hard to find and I was getting sick of running
into Magikarp, so if Hunter wanted one we'd be breeding mine. Silver came back
a few minutes after I'd snagged the Corsola. We agreed that I'd breed the
water-rock type later. For now, we'd go to the 'center and trade the Tentacle
pokemon he'd
gotten.
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