Reach for the Skies - POKEMON: DRACONIC

A lot had already happened even though I'm just a few months into my journey which made traveling for days between towns and cities to start feeling enjoyable.

A whole week passed walking from Shalour City but I finally reached Pomace Mountain on Route 11 with Geosenge town not far at the other side, more or less a few hours walk.

While scouting the area I found a peculiar sight just off the path, a meadow surrounded by rocky cliffs.

In the middle of the meadow was a manor that seemed to be engulf by a large tree.

"This must be the place."

Amongst the branches of the tree were several small inter connected tree houses. Under the large tree beside the Manor is a Garden filled with flowering plants and several berry trees.

As I walked closer to the Manor, I saw an Old lady gardening who is accompanied by a one meter tall yellow Pokémon that was using the large black maw behind its head to trim hedges.

(A combination of adorable and intimidating, so that's what a Mawile look like in real life. To put it in to perspective cute in the front, scary at the back .... why did I remember my ex in my past life?)

Mawile at this time is still miss typed as pure Steel since from what I know stride on uncovering the fairy type is yet started, even so the Pokémon is clearly not to be undermined as no matter how hard I observe I was not able to get a read on how strong the yellow fellow was.

Looking closer I saw a accessory attached at the base of its large maw, it was a round gem attached on a leaf motif bow tie.

(A Mega stone, I can at least be certain I'm not in the wrong place.)

'Maw Mawile?'

Hearing my foot steps the Mawile tending to the plants turned to my direction and noticing my approach it excitedly run towards old lady and informed her of my arrival by pointing to my direction.

"How do you do sonny, your way off the path. Are you lost?"

"I'm not lost, I'm looking for a trainer named Mabel"

"I'm Mabel, what do I owe the pleasure?"

I pointed toward the Mega stone in my necklace to give a clue on the subject of my visit.

"Dare I say, you must be the youngest Mega evolution trainer I've ever met. I did not think I would still get challenges even at this age but sure I'll give you a good whooping sonny."

"I'm all in for a battle but let me first properly introduce myself, I'm Albert Ryuma and I came here due to Gurkinn's referral, he said you know a lot about Mega evolution and could teach me a thing or two about it."

"Its certainly nice to meet you Albert. I had watched an escapade of yours from the telly a few weeks back and color me surprised when I received a letter from Gurkinn about a young Mega evolution trainer with great potential and now meeting you imagine my surprise that it was the very same kid but he fail to mention about sending you my way in his letter. Is giving a prior notice so hard?"

"Please call me Al and sorry for suddenly dropping in unannounced. To be honest Gurkinn only told me about you in passing and since I was on my way to Cyllage city, I decided to make the stop hoping to meet someone who Gurkinn thinks highly of and hopefully learn something new."

"He must have wanted to give me a little surprise but I doubt theirs much I could teach you that he is not able to share himself. I would know, I mentored him back in his early days. However since you're here how about you show me what were working with in battle as a start?"

Mabel smiled before doing a few stretches showing her amusement in the prospect of a battle.

"That would be great a battle is an effective way to show what we may be lacking."

"I got an old place near by where I use to train with my Pokémon. Natu please take us to the arena"

'Bzzzt'

'Natu tu!'

'Bzzzt'

Out of the blue a Natu teleported on Mabel's head, flapped its wings once and before I know it a familiar feeling surged and the area around us blurred shifting to a wide rocky terrain.

"I do apologize if you got disoriented on the teleport here, its normal for those who just experienced teleporting for the first time to feel nauseous"

"I'm fine, where I grew up we had an Alakazam and Gardevoir, they teleport people around in our estate so I'm used to it. Then I guess its time to show the main guy, Steelix Come out!"

Quickly getting use to the change of surrounding I called out Steelix to show that were ready to get started.

'Steeelix!'

Mabel raised a brow as she saw Steelix then put on a small smile.

"At my age I thought I've seen it all but I'm happy to still be able to witness something new. Todays a good day, Mawile lets enjoy it as we can and go have fun deary."

'Mawile!'

(Were up against the strongest type combination I know of, Fairy and Steel but offensively against my Steelix its pretty even match up.)

I looked towards the Steel-fairy type which at this time is still considered a pure Steel type and begun thinking of the possible tactics applicable in this battle.

"..... Steelix let's see what Lady Mabel can teach us"

'Steelix!'

Steelix once again roared loudly while Mawile just waved cutely at its towering opposition.

"Steelix serve the usual platter!"

'Steel ..... Steelix!'

Following our usual strategy in the start of the battle to a T, Steelix started off with the move Magnet Rise causing its body to levitate of the ground followed with several stacks of Dragon Dance.

"Kids today always so excited but still within the right set of mind. Well since you're rearing to go lets not dilly dally and just go all out from the start then. Mawile let the power that connect us bear miracle and go beyond, Mega evolve!"

'Maaaaaaawile!'

As Mabel finished the her chant, Brilliant strings of light manifested out of her key stone and Mawile's Mega stone. In the exact moment that the tendrils connected Mawile started to change into its Mega form. It grew half a size larger and most noticeably another Maw sprouted from the back of its head. When the light settled Mabel's Mawile stood confident, successfully Mega evolving.

'Mawile!'

"So no side shows and straight to the main event. Steelix, break your limit, Mega evolve!"

'Steelix!'

The same tendrils of light came from Steelix's Mega Stone and the Key Stone in my necklace followed by a bright light that exuded from Steelix's body his form is clear from the the outline and when the light died down Steelix in its Mega evolved state immediately took pose of readying to attack.

"Ohh, its Mega form is similar to that a normal Steelix but with clear differences, a strong Pokémon indeed. Mawile, lets start of with Sword dance."

'Mawile! Maw Mawile!'

Mawile heading Mabel's command started performing a strange dance with the use of its two large Maws, crossing them to each other before bagging its head up and down like its listening to heavy rock music, steadily increasing its attack power.

(Powering up their attack to match Steelix's Dragon Dance but we still got more speed.)

"Lets show them what your made of, Steelix use Rock slide followed by Heavy Slam!"

'Steelix!'

Several large ice crystals was generated which fell towards Mawile's location while Steelix enveloped in Steel type energy charged towards its opponent.

"Mawile my dear, use Rock smash then follow it up with Slam."

'Pak!'

'Pak! ...'

'Swoosh'

Mawile ignore the Steelix rocketing toward it and focused on destroying the crystal debris that fell from Rock slide but when Steelix was a few meter away Mawile spun gracefully to dodge.

'Steelix!?'

'Mawile!!!'

'BOOM!'

When half of Steelix head had passed it, Mawile grabbed Steelix's noggin with its two large maws before using Steelix's very momentum to drive it face first into the ground.

Performing a stunning suplex that caused the area to shake due to the great impact leaving a scene of Steelix laying face flat on a crater while still being tightly held by Mawile.

'Steelix?!'

"...."

I was not able to quickly process what had occurred and Steelix in a similar situation took a second to figure out what its opponent did to be able to easily counter his attack.

"Young Ryuma you and your Pokémon clearly focused so much on power but a Pokémon with enough skills could easily use that very power against you. Take it to heart as your first lesson. Now for the next lesson, Huge power."

"Huge power?"

'Pak!'

'Pak! ....'

Mawile who still have Steelix within its maws then slammed it down before continuously dragging Steelix face through the ground. Not even using a move Mawile just run through the battle field. Holding Steelix neck in its Maws , Mawile slammed Steelix into any obstacle it encounters be it through the smallest stones or large boulders, showing physical strength unlike anything I have seen before.

(What strength! Its like it is drawing in the ground while using Steelix as the pencil. I need to quickly get Steelix out of its hold.)

"Steelix use Gyro Ball in tandem with Iron tail to set your self free!"

'Steeeelix'

'psssssssh'

Steelix spun around while being held which caused Mawile's grip to loosen that allowed Steelix continues use of Iron tail to leverage its body and finally sprung away from its opponent.

"As you can see, my dear Mawile here doesn't bark but with her ability Huge power she's all bite. Make sure you keep in mind your opponents abilities before and after Mega evolution. You did not even noticed that the attack increase your Steelix gained with the Dragon Dances it had performed at the start was nullified."

"!?"

(Decrease in attacking power ..... Mawile's Intimidate?)

"I see you figured it out. I trained Mawile to not only master her moves but also the Abilities its posses one of such Ability is Intimidate. Normally it just lowers the opponent attacking power upon entry but after mastering this ability she was able to nullify its targets raised Attack and any consecutive attempts to do so."

"That's impossible! I have not heard or read of anything like that before!"

"Well being a former champion my self dearie, making the impossible possible is what allowed me to reach such heights and my Mawile here is my oldest friend that was able to stay with me in my old age. "

(Champion?!)

"You're a former Champion? Then that means that Mawile of yours is a Champion rank Pokémon!"

(I see that's why I was not able to get a read on its rank it has the capability where it could hide the energy it radiates!)

"Don't tell me your getting cold feet now."

"Far from it that only means a bigger accomplishment when I defeat you! Steelix show them we always come prepared use Ice Drip!"

'Steelix!'

Without missing a beat, Steelix started using Stone edge to create a highly concentrated piece of ice shard that quickly grew in size.

"That's the spirit. Mawile anticipate and stop it with Rock smash."

'Mawile!'

"Its ready, Steelix show them your Armament!"

'Steelix, Steeeelix!'

'Chomp!'

Contrary to Mabel's expectation the Stone edge they were expecting to come their way never arrived. The moment the Stone edge grew to a large enough mass Steelix devoured it in a single bite.

'Steeelix!'

'Pak'

'Tik'

After Steelix ate the Stone Edge a series of crystalline spikes jutted out his body, taking the form of a jagged crown of ice on its head and a body covered with ice spikes that formed a layer of frozen armor.

"Ohh! Truly a spectacle, a form akin that of a king of a land of ice. I got to admit I fought many battles in my days but never had I seen that before. Consuming a concentration of energy to form a protective layer of armor, truly an innovation."

"You hear that Steelix your royalty."

'Steel Steelix'

(Giving credit where credit is due he does look kingly.)

"Let see how much beating that armor of yours can take. Mawile use Focus blast!"

'Mawile!'

'swoosh!'

"Steelix Defend your self with Stone Edge!"

'Pak!'

'Boom!'

Mawile sent a concentrated ball of fighting type energy flying toward Steelix which it was able to defend against by creating several large Ice crystal spires from Stone edge to act as barriers to disperse the incoming attack.

This battle was unlike the ones I had in the past even my battle against Gurkinn's Lucario is the only thing to come into mind to come close, its as if Mabel and her Mawile were not even seeing us as a threat to begin with ..... Being a Champion rank trainer does give her that right.

(I just need to change her perspective then.)

"Steelix she called you royalty then let make it complete with a domain to rule, set up the field Crystal Tundra!"

'Steelix!'

'Swooosh'

'Tik!'

.....

Gathering a large amount of ice type energy, Steelix unleashed Crystal Tundra effectively terraforming the battleground by releasing the energy in a outward burst.

This one of our combination moves that made use of Steelix ability Crystal Nova. Using the gathered ice type energy in the use of sandstorm and Stone edge to create a Hailstorm that blew freezing snow and hail that lowered the vision of everyone which was then followed by several ice spikes of varying sizes to jut out of the ground to cover the surrounding.

"Child the way you battle is like your telling a story. First you made your friend wear the crown then created his land."

"Were just getting started. Steelix make use of the environment and rapid fire Scatter Blast!"

'Steelix Steel!'

'Tak!'

Maneuvering itself towards the larger ice crystals. Steelix used a combination of Iron tail and Rock throw to shatter the crystals into hundred of pieces that blasted towards Mawile like a shotgun blast.

'Mawile!'

'Pak!'

Having a hard time to dodge the incoming attack due to the minimized vision caused by the snowstorm the raged in the field, Mawile was hit several times by the onslaught.

"Hide and seek? This brings me back .... I have a old friend in Sinnoh that trained a Froslass to do something similar to this. Mawile defend using Iron head and wait for it to come to you."

'Maw! Mawile!'

'Shing!'

'Pak!'

Mawile intercepted the following attacks sent her way by using Iron head on her two Large maws which she used as a shield.

"Good work Mawile but I think we allowed them to play in the snow long enough and its getting a little too chilly here so kindly turn up the heat sweetie."

'Mawile!'

'Spshhh'

....

As soon as Mawile heard Mabel's command, It opened both its maw wide, sending a jet of fire to shoot out spreading to all round melting most of the Ice spires and even cleared the hail storm Steelix created with Crystal Tundra.

(They easily countered our move by melting all the ice Steelix set up. I guess its their of saying to stop testing the waters ... fine.)

"Steelix go for the offensive use Earthquake!"

Steelix bashed the ground with its tail several times sending out pulses of ground type energy to spread all around with Steelix as the Epicenter which caused the whole area to shake violently.

(This for sure is an attack they wont be able too coun .... )

"Mawile that's enough heat now take to the air!"

'Mawile!!!'

'Whoooooshhhh!'

"What the ..... !??"

After getting rid of the hail storm the ragging flames steadily concentrated in Mawile's Maws leaving a stable burst of fire to persist turning into a propulsion system that blasted Mawile so fast it was sent flying to the sky.

Being airborne Mawile escaped most of the damage caused by the ground type energy pulsating from the shaking ground from Earthquake.

(The little twin tail can fly!?)

"Your not the only one with a bag of tricks you know, I trained Mawile to master Flame thrower and Fire fang in away that allow her maws to jet out high concentrations of fire acting like rocket propulsions giving her the capability of flight."

(Its a Mawile with Iron man flight mobility! With Mawile air born this will become much harder as both speed wise and maneuverability in the air they are clearly leagues beyond what were capable of.)

"This is my next lesson, avoid limiting your self to a preconceived world view, go beyond what's considered the norm and let your passion for battle fuel your creativity. Let see you how you defend against attacks this time, Mawile use Iron head!"

'Maaaaawile!'

'Swooosh!'

"Steelix counter it with Gyroball"

'Pshhhh!'

Mawile dove down with a rocket powered Iron head towards Steelix. While to defend against the incoming attack Steelix started to spin while aligning its Satellites which are the metallic crystalline plates orbiting around Steelix to accelerated in tandem with the momentum generated thus continuously charging up a Magnetic field.

'Boom!'

Steelix took the blunt of the attack throwing it backward several meters but it never stopped its rotation and gathered electric energy by controlling the magnetic field generated with Magnet Rise.

"I doubt spinning in place like a top is going to do you both any good sonny."

"Well, were just us charging up for our finisher."

"Charging?"

Mabel showed clear confusion still unable to figure out the purpose of our actions but remained calm as if telling us they are ready for anything that we may send her way.

'Steeeelix!'

'shh'

Steelix rotation accelerated to a point where gale winds started to blast the surroundings sending rock and debris to fly out made worse by the electrical discharge that has begun seeping out of the metallic behemoth due to the overflow of energy.

"Its ready, Steelix use Heavy impact full power!"

In a flash Steelix was sent rocketing towards Mawile with its body filled with Steel type and electric type energy while the Satellite orbiting Steelix followed which turned Steelix into a rocketing Railgun ammo surrounded by hundred of shrapnel's.

"Don't back away Mawile use Shooting Star!"

'Mawile!'

'Swoosh!'

Mawile shimmered in a silver gleam, using iron defense In tandem too Iron head while being rocket propelled made it appear like a comet in the sky.

The two Steel type Pokémon came on each other at high velocity. Half of Steelix's charged Satellite shards gathered together in haste to cover its front acting like a layer of armor effectively increasing Steelix's defense right before the impact.

'Whoosh!'

'Pak!'

The two Pokémon crashed on each other on a deadlock causing a debris of dust and rocks to fly all around both Pokémon tying to overpower the other to gain victory.

'Mawile!'

'Steel Steelix!'

'Swooosh'

'Boom!'

Neither of the two Pokémon were willing to budge an inch, reluctant to give way to their opponent. The energy Steelix charged up is quickly declining while Mawile was seemingly letting out a ceaseless steady amount of energy until Mawile finally overpowered Steelix's charge sending it barreling to the side as Mawile blasted though it before continuing on its trajectory towards the sky.

'Mawile!'

The yellow Pokémon bellowed out while Steelix laid on the ground. Steelix definitely lost the exchange, greatly weakened from receiving the bulk of the damage while Mawile only took a bruised forehead.

'Maw Mawile Maw'

While we were getting our momentum back Mawile landed back in the ground as if waiting for us to attack once again.

(I never thought that there is a Pokémon that can face Steelix's strongest attack head on like that .... Several times during the battle I felt like they're going easy to a point that they're playing with us.)

I was not able to hide an expression of disbelief after realizing that my opponent was actually still holding back.

Steelix although injured was still rearing to fight while Mawile was simply staring from a distance as if asking whether Steelix could continue on.

'Steel Steelix!'

"That's what I'm talking about!"

Steelix let out a roar showing his unwavering will to continue on battling even if it was made evident that were certainly out powered from the last exchange but seeing Steelix's resolve made it certain that we would at least give it our all. Seeing our interaction Mabel smiled and stepped forward.

"Looks like my last lesson is un needed. I've seen enough, Very well done Mawile lets stop here."

'Mawile'

""....""

Mawile understanding her trainers intent walked back to Mabel's side leaving us to contemplate what we just heard.

"What? Why stop the battle?"

"As I said, I've seen enough"

"Who wins then?"

"I'm certain you know the answer to that but does it really matter? I wanted to see what your Pokémon have to offer while also sharing my knowledge and from what I have observed you and your Steelix are doing well continue what your doing and keep my lessons to heart if you do I'm certain there are no obstacle you won't be able to overcome."

(It's true, I see little chance for us to win in the way we are now.)

"Thanks you for the advice. I learned a lot."

"Good, good. You're very welcome. Then for now how about a cup of tea and some cookies. I baked a few for my grand daughter but she's running late to a point I might as well just make a new batch for her so that leaves me with a lot of cookies I need help finishing."

I called back Steelix and Mabel's Natu teleported us back to the Manor where Mabel invited me for another hot tea and some snacks which I happily accepted.

Mabel shared stories of her own journey and experiences in her youth. There are some even pertaining about the Dragon clans in others regions, it was their when we heard a knock on the door followed by a familiar voice.

"Grandma, I'm back and I caught the ..... Al?"

.....

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Anita's POV

I was finally able to catch a Nidoran! I had to detour another two days but it was worth it. Two weeks running around this place almost made me lose a bit of my sanity but its all over now!

The plains in the northern area of route 11 is inhabited by several species of Pokemon aside from the Nidoran line and I have wasted a lot of my time in this area which could have been avoided if I took the time to do a bit of research on the Pokemon but its hard enough to get my lazy behind out of my sleeping bag in the morning and add studying on that just makes me want to go to sleep.

I've been a trainer for three years and every day I am reminded that I have a lot to learn. Battling is a only a part of being a trainer, having knowledge and survival instinct is key.

Almost four days without food took a lot out of me but luck was still on my side however as a nice enough trainer was willing to share some food in exchange for a battle.

(Remembering that battle really gets me hyped up, can't believe he only started his journey more than a month or so ago. The battle started with his Ace rank Gible tat made me think that all his Pokémon are only at that level but to my surprise he actually have a Zweilous comparable to my main team. I should have not gone easy on him in the beginning.)

"Even as an unofficial match it was at a level of a gym battle but still how was a rookie able to train up a Elite rank Pokémon, did he recently catch it? or was it given to him ..... that's not it or they wont listen to him. I do hope I see him again and maybe even get a rematch."

If I did not encounter the young trainer named Al I doubt I could have made it back to Shalour city without eating my teams Pokémon food and a few wild berries.

(I know Pokémon food taste edible and all but a lady need to have a certain level of class and image.)

If I had my Togekiss I could have solved the problem easily, simply flying back to Shalour City to resupply but I sent him to Dad to be able to train my Quilava that I exchange Togekiss with. That served as a reminder that I should not underestimated the quality of life that having a flying type for transportation provides.

(Never making that mistake again.)

"I promised Granny that I would arrive to visit her a week ago so I'm already sooooo late."

Not wanting to waste more time I called home after reaching Shalour City to switched another of my Pokémon for Togekiss.

"We're going to Granny's place, You think you can handle a no stop flight?"

'Toge ..... Togekiss!'

"Good, then lets make sure to arrive before lunch"

'Togekiss!'

After getting back Togekiss I immediately ride on her back to fly though Route 11 towards Pomace mountain.

(Yeah, nothing beats having an ridable flying Pokémon available.)

My Granny Mabel lives alone somewhere in the base of Pomace mountain. I call her Granny but to be precise she's my great Grandmother. She and Gramps built a house in a field in the foot of Pomace mountain in their youth after their marriage, not wanting to abandon something so dear she stayed behind even after Gramps passing.

Our family made sure to visit her every so often to make sure she's okay but according to her its unneeded worry and for some reason mom is certain Granny will be able to outlive us which I still question how.

(I have a theory that Granny is secretly a ghost or something.)

She is a living legend of the region, her accomplishments granted her a lot of perks from the league including the very field in the Pomace mountain where she raised Grandpa together with Gramps.

'Swooosh!'

While reminiscing of the past, Togekiss's speed suddenly increased causing a strong gust of wind to pass by unexpectedly.

"Togekiss, no need to rush why the sudden acceleration?"

'Togekiss Toge Tokekiss!'

"Is that so, very exited to see grandma huh. Well no worry you and the others will be able to get to eat a lot of her cookies again.

'Togekiss!'

'Swoooosh!'

After hearing the word cookies Togekiss took off in greater haste Anita to hold on for dear life luckily safely buckled on so danger of falling off in not much of a worry.

"Hey I said slow down!"

'Togekiss!'

'Swooooooooooooosh!'

Due to Togekiss's enthusiasms we arrived in the Pomace mountain faster than expected.

A familiar view came into sight, a large meadow filled with flowers surrounded by rocky cliffs looking like a bowl. In the middle was my Granny's house that was built around an ancient tree where Granny and Gramps met.

"Were, here! I'll call you out again later with the others so take a rest a bit that flight must have taken a lot."

'Togekiss!'

Togekiss landed near the garden all to eager to see Granny but knowing that she needed to get her energy back first I called her back into her Pokeball.

'Knock'

I approached the door and knocked a few times before entering the house.

"Granny, I'm back and I caught the ..... Al?"

....

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Entering through the door was Anita, the trainer I recently met and who I remember to have the magical capability to make sandwiches' disappear.

"Anita? Your Mabel's granddaughter?"

"Yeah, I am. Well great grand daughter to be exact but that does not matter! What are you doing here? Wait ..... so you were not interested in me because your after grandma?! NOOooo!"

Anita expressed several shift of dramatic expression due to her mind running wild looking for answers while Mabel seemingly all to used to her great grand daughters shenanigans simply laughed.

"Al is here to get a bit of advice on Mega evolution and a few tips in battles."

Mabel explained the situation calmly to the confused Anita, settling down the interweaving imagination of the girl."

"Mega? wait your a Mega Evolution trainer?"

"I am, see here"

Showing the beautiful bead incased in my necklace, Anita was flabbergast and quickly closed in to inspect the keystone.

"Its a real one! A key stone, I thought you were a rookie lucky enough to catch an Elite rank Pokemon."

"I started training Pokémon since I was five so its not that strange that I have half a team of Pokémon in the Elite rank."

"That's strange! If its that easy to raise several Elite level Pokémon then most trainers would have been champions by now. No wonder Dad use to say that companies asks for 10 year experience from trainers looking for work no matter the age, they were looking for freaks like you!"

"I don't know what else to tell you ..... Still, I'm surprised you knew about Mega evolutions. Are you able to Mega evolve one of your Pokémon?"

"No, well not yet but in the future Grandma promised to get me a mega stone for my Lopunny and pass down her keystone to me."

Anita exclaimed in an anticipating tone looking towards the Keystone attached to Mabel's cane.

"On another note its quite a surprise to see you again so soon Al. I thought you would be already on Geosenge by this time."

"This is my only stop before continuing on to Geosenge town so I took my time. I'm headed to Ambrette City but I need to go to Cyllage city for a Gym battle."

"I'm also headed to Cyllage City why don't we travel together?!"

"I hope you not dally longer Anita, your mother called a while back asking about your progress on delivering the package."

"Mom huh, I have not been able to call her much since I've been too focused on my journey for some time. I'll let her know that I could at least manage to deliver it safely. At most it will take me two weeks to deliver her package to Cyllage City."

"Why not fly on Togekiss it would take but a day or two only taking a few stops in between towns."

"Yeaaaahhh ..... well Cyllage city is not going anywhere besides what's the point of traveling if we are not making the most of it? As my mom usually say its the journey not the destination so live a little and lets enjoy ourselves."

"Your dear mother Elena won't be too happy to hear that your quoting her in that manner."

"Come on Granny you know flying around takes the joy out of traveling beside I promise it will arrive on schedule and if I were to guess it will be just another random item Mom want to add to her collection. This also gives me a chance to travel with Al! I'm sure Mom wont be happy if she finds out that I took another trainers food without properly compensating them right?"

"?"

Mabel not understanding what Anita meant, looked toward my direction as if looking for an explanation.

"She ran out of supplies while looking for a Pokémon so I gave her some of mine in exchange for a Pokémon battle."

"I'm very thankful for that. It saved me from that unsweet jam. Since I recall promising to pay Al back on our next meeting. As payment I plan on showing him around the best places to visit along the way to Cyllage city. believe me I've been crossing these paths for years when visiting you Granny. Al can expect good food, amazing sights and one in a life time chance a opportunity to travel with yours truly the gorgeously stunning, Adorably cute and Beautifully radiant lady! Me!"

""....""

"Its good that you keep to your words but have you asked the recipient if his willing?"

"Its fine right Al?"

Anita stared my way as if expecting a resounding yes only to see a troubled smile while I thought of what to do.

(Traveling with another person again huh ... with my track record of travel companions this will surely not cause me much of a problem. At worst I have to battle Evil Calamaries again which is just making me more hungry than scared thinking about it.)

"I guess I'm fine with a companion for a while."

"Yay! my charms won again!"

"...."

"If this young man is with you I'll certainly worry less, but be careful and again don't dally for long."

After staying for another three hours since Anita wanted to catch up with Mabel together with her Pokémon, I continued on my journey with another temporary travel companion.

"Al ..."

While walking in the path leading back to the main route Anita suddenly called out my name with a serious expression.

"What?"

"Are you sure you don't want that kiss"

With that one question I was made to think twice if having a travel companion worth the trouble.

.....

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POV. Dark figure Poachers Guild

"Have you found the Relic?"

"Affirmative, our inside information tells us its on the hand of a trainer named Anita Monroe who is expected to still be in Route 11 and is inbound to Cyllage city where the Relic, specified drop off is unknown."

"I see, retrieve the Relic before it reaches Cyllage City since theirs unknown variables present. Send in two commanders for the extraction as soon as possible."

"And the Girl?"

"To be disposed of, we don't want any evidence much less witnesses that could get the international police in on our tail but its imperative that we succeed, no matter the cost."

"Yes, Sir"

"With that piece in hand, we will finally able to proceed with our plans. Call the laboratory in Johto and Unova region, have them begin preliminary analysis on the petrified samples we got earlier."

.....

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POV. Albert Ryuma

One thing became apparent whilst walking with Anita and that's she's a fan. Who's fan one may ask? ... One of mine.

It was early in our walk when she started jamming to several Pokémon theme songs on her Pokegear.

"🎶I wanna be the very best🎶 ....."

(Never have I imagined that I will get to hear a Pokémon world doubleganger of Ariana Grande to be singing the Pokémon theme song, but here I am.)

"Come on Al sing with me, I doubt your unfamiliar with this songs they're basically breaking charts two years in a row now."

(....)

"I know, I also usually sing those songs together with my Pokémon."

"Really?! That sounds adorably cute! Maybe you can let me see some of that action."

"Sorry but that's a private session between me and my team but you're welcome to hear my solo ..... 🎶Every challenge along the way🎶 ....."

"Whoa, your not to bad yourself."

Anita not expecting my hidden talent gave a honest compliment.

"I had been singing a lot back home so practice is not an issue."

"Yeah, that make sense, still your actually very good, too good in fact."

(The lack of interest on entertainment outside the subject of Pokémon and Pokémon battles is clear as the top selling songs amongst the ones I put out are all the Pokémon related ones.)

I sang together with Anita while making our way towards Geosenge town not noticing the doubtful glances she was giving from time to time. It did not even take an hour or so of walking to reach Geosenge since its quite close to Pomace mountain.

Geosenge town's landscape was lined with houses that flows with the rise and fall of the hills that covers the topography of the area. Excavation of Stones, fossils, and at times even rare relics that made Geosenge town an active tourist attraction was evident from the cleared mountain slopes and ridges that surrounded the town.

However the first sight every take notice off was the three iconic grey stone spires in the middle of a bustling mining town.

(So that's the Ancient weapon ..... neat.)

Heading towards the middle of the town to take a closer look of the famous spires, I was made to think of the numerous lives claimed by the ancient weapon in the past which now remains hidden in plain sight.

"I wonder ....."

~Touch the stone~

Face to face with the famous landmark, my intrusive thought got the better of sound judgement and I unceremoniously held my palm against the one of the spire even though there was a clear sign that states 'Do not Touch'

Basking in the stones surface I felt its rough texture on my skin.

(Yup, its made of rock or covered in it to be precise.)

The spires did not emit any type of energy and for the most part feels and look like what most people think of it, a bunch of stationary rocks.

"Al better keep your fingies to your self since the locals don't like tourists getting touchy feely with their famous landmark."

"Ohh sorry."

"Its fine beside that's not how you pay respect to the spires of Geosenge, you do it like this."

Anita ignoring her own warning hugged the spire which got the attention of not only the other visitors but also a town police guard that quickly called to us using a small mega phone berating Anita to stop hugging the monument.

She let go of the stone after getting told off by guard who was nice enough to let us off with a warning and after a minute or so of rock adoration with several other people we started looking for the Pokemon center.

On the way we came across a sea of tourists checking out a heavily decorated street with lines of stalls selling a bunch of varying trinkets and souvenirs.

"A Bazaar?"

"How can I forget! Todays the annual Geosenge Bazaar, Lucky!"

Anita took out a note book which I later learned to be filled with information of the places she had visited in the past which go indept on certain celebrations towns and cities are famous.

"Here Geosenge Bazaar happens once a year and is known to be a must go for those looking for rare items from other regions ranging from evolution stones, old artifacts and even gems! Its hailed as a collectors wonderland. Archeologist and treasure hunters from all over the world comes to participate to buy and sell items and some items never seen before in the Kalos region. Al let go check it out, there's always bound to be something good in this type of gathering."

"Lets take a look then, a town known for selling uncommon stuff having an event for selling rarer stuff is just the Cherubi on top."

Just as Anita stated, stalls upon stalls of sales man displayed rows of varying stones and artifacts dug up from all around the world. I noticed a few familiar ones like evolution stones and even some stuff I've never seen before.

"Hey Al check this out! ..... No way check that one, its so cute!"

"...."

"Al! Al! Over here a set of evolution stones for sale and it even has a piece of Ice stone and Shiny stone. Waaaaah! only 10k Poke dollar?! that's high way robbery! and I'm the thief! Mister I'll take the lot!"

"....."

Like a storm, Anita hopped from one shop to the other and some where along the way we got separated but for all its worth its for the best.

While doing my own stall to stall browsing I came across a vendor dressed like Indiana Jones complete with the iconic whip and hat selling Artifacts varying from hand bands, coins, a worn out crown and several other old artifacts but what caught my attention was a particular mirror placed in the corner of the table.

"You have a good eye young lad, this here is something dug up in the Unova region. Its a relic called the Reveal Glass, according to legend it can show the true forms of demons in distant past. A few of it had been found in recent years so the price had gone down but is still a valued collector piece."

"How much do you want for it?"

"100k Pokedollar"

(That's a whole years worth of money for a regular trainer but still won't put a dent in my spending thought.)

"Do you have any form of authentication for it?"

"You think I'm selling fakes? Believe me, what I sell are all real and this specimen is one I personally procured in the Unova region. I was able to easily acquire it since the people who dug it up had no inkling of what it was and thought it was a normal relic but I was able to easily discern its Identity!"

(Its still skeptical but the look of the item with the wear down old appearance of it matches the artifacts mom had brought back home but such effects can be faked .... well I can easily afford it anyways and even if its fake I could put it off as getting scammed by Pokemon world version of Indiana jones.)

"Fine, I'll believe you. Pack up the Reveal Glass as well as two of each of type of coin."

The coins I pointed too have a unique pattern engraved on them which made them stand out and easily caught my attention.

"As Relic treasures most of the Coins cost three times as much as their weight in the metals they are made of. The gold coins coins contain 10k Poke dollar worth of gold which make it cost about 30k Poke dollar each while silver coin contains 5k Poke dollar worth of Silver upping its price at 15k Poke dollar and the copper coin just have a set price of 10k Poke dollar."

(The Reveal glass along with the coins will look good to add in my collection back in Lumiose in the future and put in display.)

"That's fine."

"Then that will be 210k Poke dollar but ill lower it to 190k Poke dollar. Next time you come around be sure to visit my stall again I may have something new."

After another hour of sight seeing and shopping, I found Anita still looking through some wares and since it was getting late she agreed to finally take our Pokemon to the Pokemon center while carrying a pile of stuff.

We were able to get our team healed but the Center had no available vacancy leaving us with no place to stay but Anita seemingly undeterred took out her note book before dragging me to another place called Hotel Marine Snow where she decided we would stay the night.

According to Anita Hotel Marine Snow has a reputation of great service for tourists and trainers alike visiting Geosenge. The 750 Poke Dollar price is not as high compared to the hotels in Lumiose city so it was no bother for the run of the mill trainers.

Provided with a room each we were able to have a good nights sleep and even greeted with a free breakfast buffet.

Early in the morning I was invited by Anita for a morning jog around the outskirts of Geosenge to sight see the famous rock formations and old mines around the area. Since it already coincides to my morning exercise I accepted.

It did not take long for us to encounter several excavation groups that have already started digging to unearth the treasures that lay hidden underground. Archeology in the Pokémon world is a profession that I like to do at least once in my life since even in my old life men even in a young age has a innate love to dig and play around in the dirt finding stuff and getting payed doing it is just a bonus.

After jog around town we prepared and ate breakfast with our Pokémon finishing our short rest in Geosenge town. We continued on to Route 10 with the first landmark we come across on Route 10 being just a kilometer outside of Geosenge town known as the Menhir trail.

"Al feast your eyes on the Menhir trail the gate way of Route 10 and named from the large field going as far as the eye can see stretching a total of four miles where several large stones lined the expanse in hundreds of rows and columns similar to headstones in a graveyard."

"Where in what you just said explains where it got its name from?"

I asked both fascinated and confused on my tour guides introduction of the area.

"I don't know I'm just reading the notes I copied from a travel guide I got that one time."

"....."

(I'm certain I'm missing a back story for this place. I remember watching a few videos on the spin off anime about the ancient weapon of Kalos but since I only played the games up to gen 5, certain lore of the world not shown in the show escapes me.)

Walking in between the columns and rows of Stones we were able to encounter several native Pokémon rarely seen outside ruins and caves which are of the Goletts and Sigilyphs lines.

They were not aggressive and from afar, its apparent that most of them are in their inactive state which is the inanimate Pokémon's version of sleeping.

Only a few Goletts are not curl up in a ball and actively walking around while the Sigilyphs are perched above the stone spires looking like ancient totems staring off in the distance.

Their are a few Goletts that had taken notice of us and tried to get close due to curiosity but would back away after reaching a few meters, taking notice of my necklace.

(Repel really does not work on inanimate Pokemon or Pokemon without a sense of smell in general but its great that my Dragon fang is still in full effect.)

It took two hours to get pass the Menhir trail but it was a worth while track as we even encountered a Sleeping Golurk with a height of seven feet even with most of its arms and legs tucked inside it self. Its inactive state was in the shape of an ancient cannon that is riddled with cracks patched with old metal slabs.

There were other trainers also crossing the trail but battles never occurred as its not permitted in the area due to the risk of damaging the lined stones in the place.

That does not mean that it had not happened before since according to Anita the Golurk in the Menhir trail acts as the guardians of the area allowing trainers to pass but attacks those that causes trouble in their home.

After passing through the trail the journey started to get active again as battling was once again on the table. Unlike my neutral stance of being the one receiving challenges, Anita is actively setting out to look for trainers to battle.

Every trainer we come across was issued a challenge by her and since my team also need to have their share of fun I started to emulate my travel companion.

It was then that I realized the first down or up side of having a travel buddie is that the challenges is shared amongst the group and for Anita who is a battle junkie made it so that I needed to actively fight for my cut of the action.

"Al! this is a good day were getting a lot of battles and all of them accepted! Some trainers even challenge us themselves."

"Isn't that the norm?"

"I wish! I usually only get two to three people who ask me for battle in most Routes so I needed to challenge trainers who I come across and less than half of them accepts!"

"Really?! Almost all the trainers that I make eye contact in my travels run blazing in my direction asking for a battle."

"Lucky!"

"No its weird! Compared to what you have told me, then most trainers just mind their own business while on the road."

"Well duh. Unless they wanted to specifically train their team or earn a bit more cash then yes its not that common since if your Pokémon get severely injured with no immediate access to a Pokémon Center it may leave lasting or even permanent complications. That's why battles are mostly done near town or cities since surviving some of the routes harsh climates and wild Pokémon's are already a challenge all to it self."

The revelation sent my mind into overdrive, thinking if the encounters I had so far are mostly battle junkie trainers all luck and chance or something else at play.

(In the show and games the Mc getting several challenges in a route is normal but I guess I can't expect every thing to be the same.)

"That reminds me when I first met you I also felt a strange urge to challenge you to a battle but I repressed it due to hunger."

"Urge to challenge me? Why?"

"I don't know how to put it in words exactly but their is an air around you or is it energy? that's like totally asking for battle."

(Energy? The only item that I have on me that could possibly radiate substantial energy is the Key stone and ..... My Dragon claw necklace!)

The energy it emit acts as a deterrent to wild Pokemon but the same energy must have an additional effect that riles up trainers for battle. I doubt mom did not know about it since she gave it to me but she must have thought it as a perfect way for me to increase the opportunity to train my team while on the road.

(It make sense why it costed so much as a Pokemon repel it also secretly acts as a wild trainer magnet.)

After figuring out the mystery we continued on to the first of the two town we need to pass through to get to Cyllage city from Geosenge.

The first stop is Brackish town which took only a day of walking to reach, which was very close if based on the Pokémon world standard of town to town distance.

Brackish town is one of the best in Kalos culinary wise and it was apparent, as we arrived the smell of puff pastries flew in the air assaulting our senses.

"Yes! Brackish town, famous for the best chocolate cake in the Kalos region! Al, quick cake stop! I'll only take 'yes' and 'yes please' as an answer!"

"Best chocolate cake in the Kalos region huh, that's a bold claim. Need proof immediately and lets get some of the bread too for the road."

"Yay!"

Arriving at one of the shops with a beautiful sight of rows of chocolate cake and vary types of bread filled my eyes causing my mouth to water.

"You know what I'll get one of each."

"Slice?"

"Nah, one of each of the whole cake and a dozen of each bread type."

(Having a Dimension folding bag is one of the biggest innovation in the world in terms of traveling in my opinion, since it allows food stored to last almost indefinitely unless taken out.)

"The option to eat the best cake in the region when ever I want in the following weeks to months is a great morale booster that is hard to say no to."

Anita looked on in awe as I slowly put boxes of cakes and breads into my bag without end until I was satisfied."

"Why not just take the whole bakery and how do you even have a dimensional bag?! doesn't those cost like a lot, I'm sure even the entry level of those bags cost more than the house I grew up in!"

"That must be a pretty humble abode"

"No its not! I lived on a three story house!"

"Bragging? Well I grew up in a seven story mansion."

"Seven story? that's a building!"

"I was told it was more of a castle really."

"Who are you! Who am I traveling with?! Steven Stone?"

"Ohh! you know Steven? I never really met the guy but his family has once helped to study my Steelix and even provided recipes for Steel type Pokémon food, they're nice people really."

" ..... Just stop."

(I did not know Steven famous even in Kalos. Well I've heard he started his journey two years ago though, since Devon Corp made it known to the world that Steven Stone has started his journey as a Pokémon trainer with wide spread advertisement with Steven in the fore front.)

The advertisements they used had a in your face approach. Like, need Timer balls? a commercial of a young Steven Stone using it to catch an Aron! Potions? Bill boards of Steven stone posing with several types of potions! There was a time that I thought that he was traveling with his own camera crew cataloging his journey as even his first gym battle was used as an advertisement for Hoenn gyms.

It was truly the PR stunt of the year where even my father considered doing the same but I asked relentlessly not to, considering that fame is more trouble than its worth when starting out as a trainer.

After purchasing the pastries and desert that took my fancy 'mostly everything' After settling in the Pokémon center, we distributed the confectionaries to our Pokémon while making sure to portion it based on their size, although I gave Zweilous twice the amount to allocate for each head to have their own to eat.

After enjoying the town of desserts we made our way to the next town named Calanthe town which took two days to reach.

It is a town surrounded by forests filled with berry trees and is known for the vast plain cluttered with flowers home to the Flabébé line which at this time is still considered to be Grass type.

(I can't blame researchers as until fairy type is discovered they will keep chucking up every Pokémon weak to Poison type to be Grass type and put the reason why some Pokémon not aligning to its known type weaknesses being due to unknown abilities.)

After agreeing to take a short break on the wide field of flowers we started preparing our picnic style lunch but its clear that both Gible and Zweilous is uncomfortable staying in the area, especially in the case of Zweilous who keeps sneezing its two heads to a point that I considered calling him back to his Pokeball.

'Zwei .. Zwei .. Zweilous!'

'Sneeze'

(Being Dark-Dragon type does not hide its weakness to fairy type in anyway. Just being in the vicinity of a thousand Flabébé caused Zweilous to get allergies ..... well that or is it just the pollen of the flowers irritating his sinuses ..... maybe even both.)

Everything was going great in our little picnic until Gible suddenly disappeared and after a few minutes we found him surrounded by a group of angry Flabébé's covered in the dragons saliva and the situation became all to clear with the Flabébé's expression as if saying 'What's wrong with this guy?'.

(He tried to hunt down a Flabébé and found the taste of the fairy type to be unsatisfactory.)

'Milotic!'

'Swoooosh!'

''''''''Flab? Flabebe!!'''''''

Milotic blasted several weak water gun to wash and disperse the Flabébé's surrounding Gible which made the land shark let out a series of happy cries.

'Gible gib!'

Like any new catch Gible still tends to cause trouble but battle wise it had showed good growth to a point that I even expect him to be not far off from evolving. Unlike Zweilous who I got only a few months after hatching as a Deino, Gible was already two to three years old based on its size when I caught him.

Age wise its not surprising that after providing Gible top quality food and training would put him close to evolving, with this in mind I decided to elevate his training by allowing him to have light spars with Milotic and Steelix.

We did not stay long in Calanthe town and continued on after a night rest in the Pokémon center as Cyllage city was only another two days away from Calanthe town.

While on our way to Cyllage city we were stopped in our tracks by two individuals wearing matching uniforms that oddly have their eyes focused on Anita.

(That's a criminal organization uniform if I ever saw one and I've seen a lot when it came to this world.)

The duo is compost of a muscular middle aged man wearing a biker jacket with a net symbol patched on his chest and rocking a Gandalf beard.

The other person was a younger dark skinned girl in her mid 20's whos in a more professional uniform with the difference of a having a camo designed top with the same net insignia stitched on the middle.

"Both of you halt, we have a question to ask the little missy. Is your name is Anita Monroe?"

The bearded fellow approached Anita and asked for her name.

"Don't Answe..."

"Yes!"

Not wanting to deal with the suspicious duo I tried to whisper to Anita not to reply truthfully to the question however she, clueless to a fault, answered.

"... Why."

"Why what? they ask if my name is Anita Monroe and I am the one and only beauty Anita Monroe. I hafta greet my fans you know, support your supporters no matter how few they maybe and believe me my fan base is steadily growing!"

Anita stated before taking a peace pose while I look on in dismay of the possible situation we may have in our hands. Not taking criminal organizations seriously is foolish but I still need confirmation that they are here to cause trouble before taking action.

(Just to make sure .....)

Very skeptical of the duo I reach for my Travel Gizmo all too ready to set off a Ranger alarm in a moments notice. This Ranger alarm is something not to be taken lightly as if used without a proper reason a trainer might have his license revoked for a whole year.

( I've just started my journey can't have it delayed for a whole year just because of a Pokemon worlds version of a false 911 call. But come on, they have the dubious uniform and everything. They could only be either from a Criminal organization, Cult, or a Dance group which I highly doubt. For now the only thing I can do is to stall for time and collect information.)

"Anita look carefully do you still not realize how sketchy this people look?"

"Al that's called fashion and in my opinion their matching couple get up is like totally cute!"

"""...."""

"Little Missy, we could hear ya'll talking. You do know that right?"

"Kid do I look like some one who date guys twenty years older than me?"

Both the unknown individual in question seems to be greatly offended by our remarks for different reasons.

"I'm Wilson and this is my partner Betty were from the Poacher guild a feared organization of Pokémon hunters from the Johto region. Don't complicate this and just hand us the Relic your delivering to Cyllage city."

(I thought the criminals in the Pokémon world would be smarter in real life but just like in the show, here they are even sharing their company's address .... if I asked why they're after a Relic, I wonder if they would tell us ..... Nah they can't be that egotistical right?)

Confirming my hunch, I immediately pressed the Ranger alarm button on my phone alerting near by authorities of possible trouble were in. The alarm will keep sending out a signal to my location until a Pokémon Ranger reached my approximate vicinity.

"Al, I had my doubts but I think that they're bad people!"

Looking at Anita's expression of doubt I was made to realize that common sense is lacking on both sides of this confrontation.

"What gave you the idea? Is it the Poacher guild member ship or attempted robbery that's happening gave it away? Like, you've been in a journey longer than me of course they're bad people!"

"Well sorry, I just don't like to be quick to judge. They might be shooting a hidden camera show or something. Their was a time I almost ... I have a bad history on judging to quickly okay!"

(I should have expected this, my last travel companion only lasted for a few days and I had to battle against Pokémon seeking world domination and now I'm facing a literal highway robbery from a criminal organization.)

"Forget about it and I don't think we could have avoided them either way, We just need fend them off until the rangers gets here."

"Boy you better shut up and Miss Monroe we know about the Relic that your delivering to Cyllage city, Give it to us and will let you go or else"

"Or else what?"

"Or else this .... Nidoking come out!"

The poacher Betty not wanting to waste more time called out her Nidoking which was a six feat tall pink bipedal Rhino mixed with a Spiky Lizard.

Just like in the show a Nidoking looks very intimidating but since I grew up around Dragon types the Nidoking in front of me looked adorable in comparison.

(I wanted to see personally see a Nidoking for the longest time but did not expect it to be in this scenario.)

"Let get this over quickly. Since the boy have already called for help we don't have much time to waste before those Rangers arrive. Aegislash Come out!"

A Pokémon with a Rapier sword and a buckler shield as a body is called out by the middle aged man, Wilson.

(An Aegislash! and not of the Kalos region native variety.)

In this world the Honedge line could come in different forms but maintains its typing, moves, and abilities so they are not treated as regional variants but certain enthusiast still exists, trainers who look for a specific form of the Honedge line to their liking is not rare.

The form of the Honedge line takes specifically depends on the type of sword used in the location in its history with the most common being in its default form I know of in my past life that is wide spread in the ancient battle grounds and tombs of Kalos. It is said that Honedge found in Alola would most likely take the form of a Scimitar and its final form Aegislash's shield taking the form of a large Alolan mask. While those of the distant Galar region is of a Rapier and buckler.

The Pokémon that the duo poachers guild members called out are only at a low Elite level but I don't need to be a genius to understand that underestimating them may lead to a negative consequence.

(I should remember that trainers with Elite four rank Pokémon are rare and no matter how big of an organization they have they more likely have none.)

"Milotic prepare for battle!"

'Milotic!'

Milotic immediately started stacking up Dragon dances to power up her speed and attack before before calling out Rain with Rain Dance and even an Aqua Ring to show everyone what peak performance look like.

"Don't worry Al, I have past experiences dealing with criminals even fake ones so let me tell you that even if they have strong Pokémon they are still no match from what were packing, come out Lopunny!"

Clearly beginning to understand the danger were in, Worry started being apparent on Anita's face but she still showed courage befitting Elite rank and called out her Shiny Lopunny.

"This kids actually has some powerful Pokémon and rare ones too, nice enough to sell. Tell me your name boy so I will know who to thank when I cash in after auctioning that serpent of yours."

"None of your bussn..."

"Old man you don't know who your messing with, my friend here is Albert Ryuma and his just as strong or even stronger trainer than me while also being loaded with cash so you better be scared!"

"The kids rich too? Kidnapping may not be our main venture but we do dabble in it back in Johto. Now Albert Ryuma ..... where have I ....."

(Did she just advertise me as a prime target for criminals?)

"You know Anita, I'll be honest with you ..... I'm starting to question if your seriously clueless or low key making fun of me but one things for sure if we somehow safely get out of this, I may consider jumping off a cliff rather than traveling with you again."

"Ryuma!? .... Wilson, I heard of that kid before! His been in recent news for beating a group of Malamars and what's worst its said that his the son of the Elite four Drasna and the tycoon Alden!"

"Son of a Kangaskhan what is that kid doing here with the target and with no body guards!? I thought those stuck up nobles always have a entourage following them when on a journey."

Anita who was listening in to the two poachers conversation pieced certain context clues together.

"So that's how your so rich! But still, Al is your mom really Drasna the Dragon master of the Elite four?"

"Yeah, she is but why is tha ...."

"Al's the ultimate silver spooned Nepo baby and his mom is going to feed you to their dragons! You heard that you filthy heathens, your cooked, Kaput!"

".... What in the Bidoof's buck tooth did you just call me? and stop using my family as a buffer from criminals!"

Even with my questioning glare Anita's taunt effectively pulled a string on the duo's emotions with a clear mixture of anxiety and fear.

(Again she's not wrong in some aspects like if my mother Drasna knew of this then a Caterpie surrounded by a flock of Pidgey in a open field would have better odds surviving than these two.)

"Forget nabbing their Pokémon, it may be used to track us by those crazy Dragon tamers. Just grab the Relic and lets get out of this Region quickly!"

"You think that will be enough? Stick to the original orders get rid of all evidence that can lead to us! Hey kid I got no vendetta with you and your family but can't have them going after us if we let you get away so both of you need to disappear! Nidoking use Poison Jab on Milotic!"

Panicked, Betty's mind spiraled into a frenzy and commanded her Nidoking to attack.

"Your right by my great beard your absolutely right! Aegislash use Shadow sneak and get behind Lopunny then hit it hard with Sacred Sword!"

(They are not thinking clearly and must have considered the situation as to deep to back down!)

"No need to show mercy Milotic, use Ice beam to slow Nidoking's advance then take it swimming with Dragging Surf! Only stop when it stops breathing!"

"Lopunny use dig and then deliver a hot Fire Punch on Aegislash!"

As Aegislash appeared behind Lopunny ready to deliver a back stab attack using Sacred Sword, Lopunny spun around with a twist of its body to counter with a fiery fist heading towards the would be assailant.

"Aegislash use King Shield!"

While Anita's Lopunny was battling Wilson's Aegislash, Milotic was facing Nidoking. The battle was clearly one sided on our favor as a single ice beam was able to halt the Nidoking's advance and seeing the opening Milotic jumped in wrapping its body around Nidoking before dragging it under water with surf while its trainer Betty was yelling commands in vain.

(Our Dragging Surf strategy we got from GG Grandma truly does wonders against foes weak to water types. If it was any other Pokémon even that of an Ace rank they would still be able to escape if they're creative enough but dealing with a super effective attack while suffocating is a nightmare for any Pokémon.)

"Nidoking use thunderbolt!"

'Nidoking!'

Before fully succumbing to the water Nidoking finally able to hear her trainers command and used a close up thunderbolt to Milotic who was wrapping around it.

'Milotic!'

While I was expecting the match to end quickly but Milotic was forcibly made to let go of Nidoking due to taking on the electric type attack head on while under water.

"Milotic use Recover!"

'Mi Milotic'

Milotic healed most of the damage sustained from the attack but her expression still showed clear discomfort.

"Milotic what's wrong?"

(Purple?)

It was then I noticed a lavender hue across Milotic's face and expression of pain which is a clear sign of being afflicted by Poison.

"I see Milotic was poisoned by Nidoking's ability Poison point due to the prolonged contact."

(Its not the best status condition to have but also not the worse with Marvel scale but with Aqua Ring set up and even Recover in Milotic's arsenal. On the other hand, Poison damage might just prove useful in putting them in a false sense of relief.)

"Nidoking they're poisoned! Its only a matter of time until it falls, Stay strong and kill that snake with another Thunderbolt!"

"Milotic no need for any more frontal assaults' use Hydro Pump!"

'Miloooooooooootic!'

'Swooosh!'

Milotic not even bothering to dodge tanked another thunderbolt while she continuously released a powerful stream of pressurized water towards Nidoking.

'Boom!'

'Nidoking!'

After a minute of being dragged underwater, Nidoking was already greatly weakened and a direct hit from a full power Hydro Pump was to much for it to handle. Being on its last leg it fell and passed out.

"Nidoking! Noooo!"

(Too bad for them that they were outmatched in every way even if her Nidoking have Sheer force and Life orb combo I doubt they still be able to do anything against Milotic defenses.)

Milotic immediately once again healed with Recover and Aqua Ring. After defeating the Nidoking I immediately moved to the next step of my plan which was to incapacitate my foe.

"Milotic were not done yet! Use Ice beam on the trainer Betty!"

"Huh? what are you doin ....."

'Miloooooooooootic!'

'Bzz'

'Swooooosh!'

"Betty watch out!'

Unable to dodge the incoming beam of freezing energy she was frozen from the base of the neck to her feet and was incased in ice.

(As if I'm allowing her to call out another Pokémon. In the end its them or us, there's a chance she might die in the ice due to freezing or even a severe case of frost bite but its a sacrifice I'm willing to make.)

"Wilson!!!! Help me!!!"

"Aegislash get Betty out of the ice, use Iron Head!"

"No you don't, Lopunny use Quick attack into Brutal Swing!"

After Wilson saw his partner get thoroughly put out of the battle, hastily tried to help.

'Lopunny!'

'Aegislash?!'

'Wham!'

Anita's Lopunny who covered its hands with Dark type energy used Brutal swing to grab hold of the Ghost types sword handle before slamming it on the ground knocking it out.

"No No No, why are we losing to some brats! Come out Rype ....."

'Ca-Caw!'

'Pidg!'

Seeing that his Aegislash has fainted, Wilson immediately tried to call out another Pokémon but it was then that several distinct screeching calls is heard from the distance that was slowly getting closer which caused him to halt in realization.

"Already?!"

"Wilson its the rangers they're here! hurry up and get me out!"

As if realizing the helpless situation, Wilson brought out a purple colored glass ball and looked at her partner Betty with eyes filled with pity and as if understanding her partners turmoil, her expression fell into disarray.

"Sorry Betty but times up and I ain't plan on going back to the slammer! Aegislash return!"

"What? What are you saying?! Just help me out we could still escape together!"

"Tak!"

'Whooosh!'

Facing a losing battle, Wilson decided to call back his Aegislash before throwing the Purple ball on the ground shattering it, releasing a cloud of smoke that filled the area around him.

"I'll come back for you, I promise!"

"Come back for me?! Wilson! I will be put in prison you bastard help me now!"

"A smoke ball! Milotic don't let him escape use Ice Beam!"

Milotic aimed its attack into the smoke hoping to block the poachers retreat but when the smoke cleared up Wilson was no where insight and in place was just a ice covered ground.

"Wilson! Don't leave me behind Wilson! Come back, Wilson! Wilson!"

'Ca-Caw, Ca-Caw!' 'The sound of freedom'

'Pid, Pidgeooot!'

Betty, left behind by her partner panicked and continued on crying out her partners name but before she could get her mind together the screeching calls became close enough to drown out her plea for help.

'Whoosh!'

A gust of wind blown all over from the flaps of the wings of two large bird Pokémon. A Braviary and Pidgeot ridden by two people wearing a all to familiar uniform had arrived and noticing the iconic red jacket and boots it was made known to everyone that they are Pokemon Rangers.

(A Pidgeot!)

Seeing the Pokémon I used to love in the first season of the anime caused a wave of nostalgia to hit. Non native Pokémon are usually rarely seen in the wilds Kalos region unless its flying types.

The increase of non native flying types is the result of the large project that the Kalos league had implemented three years ago. It was a project to increase the avian diversity of the region by breeding large avian Pokémon from different regions to be propagated in the wild.

This project was put into place due to the lack of ridable native flying Pokémon aside from the Noivern line which being a Dragon type was some thing very few trainers are skilled enough to train.

The Kalos league also provided the Pokémon Rangers a choice to receive one of specimens that the league hatches for free as a form of advertisement to local trainers about the new species they had introduced.

Admiring the two bird Pokémon I failed to notice the questioning stare of the Rangers on top.

"What happened here!? Who sent out the alert?"

The Ranger approached us and started asking about the situation and after a few minutes of explaining what occurred and the motive the two had in attacking us the Rangers immediately apprehended Betty who was noticeably pale and cold from being incased in ice but still very much alive with no sign of frostbite.

"Great work apprehending one of the Poacher guild's members and its one of the known Admins to boot with a high bounty in the Johto region so expect to be rewarded for your efforts."

It seems that the Rangers were quick to respond due to being near, prior making their way to Cyllage City returning from an investigation on a anomaly that occurred a week ago in reflection cave where a third of the crystal's in the cave disappeared and it is expected that it would take another ten years for it to regrow. I kept quiet after hearing about the problem knowing full well the identity of the culprit of said anomaly.

"The sudden disappearance of a large quantity of crystals in Reflection cave and the Poacher guild that attacked two trainers on the very same route ..... there's a chance that's its related."

"It must be related and if you ask me I think they took it."

Starting to slowly sweat due to guilt, I used the opportunity provided by the Poacher guild to diverted the blame as it served as a good way out of the situation.

"The case does suggest so but its too early to get a clear picture, further investigation is needed but since the Poacher Guild, a organization from another region is involved this matter will most likely be shifted to the department of the International Police."

The Rangers offered to give us a ride to Cyllage city to make sure we arrive safely since we had caught the attention of some dubious individuals and if we continued walking our way we may encounter more of them.

I chose to ride beside the Ranger with the Pidgeot as its a Pokémon I hoped to see once in this world let alone given the chance to ride one. The hot blond Pokemon ranger was but a bonus.

(Am I going into puberty again?)

Anita denied the offer and instead called out her Togekiss which she rode. Flying in the sky was an all new experience and something I never thought I would enjoy so much. Since I was not permitted to ride any of my mom's Pokémon that was able to fly, I never had the chance to experience flight before today. Its not that I never tried as I once sneakily asked Nimbus the Fluffy Altaria if he would like to take me for a ride around the property but was quickly shutdown.

(Zweilous evolving is the best chance I got now to have my very own ridable Pokémon with flight capabilities but from what I know from its species it will take a long .... long time. Their is even a chance that Gible may reach its final form faster than Zweilous. Being able to soar in the skies any time I want will be just a pipe dream in the meantime unless I catch another Pokémon that can act as Aerial transport.)

The great view and the adrenaline rush flying provided was an exhilarating experience, one I would be looking for in the future.

The only person not enjoying the ride was the captive Betty who was carried on Braviary's talons silently murmuring her partners name.

"Wilson ....."

.....

Chapter 16 - Reach for the Skies