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Re:Rise of Team Neos

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Compared to previous chapters I've written, this one is rather short. In the grand scheme of things it is necessary though. Besides, it's quality not quantity, so let me know what ye all think about the quality of this one.

Chapter 35: Matters Uneasily Resolved

“Now Axel! Finish it with Flare Blitz!” I commanded. My monkey partner surrounded his body in fire and charged recklessly at a Pokémon with a thin green stalk for a body and a large yellow sunflower for a head. The Sunflora screamed in pain before falling to the floor unconscious.

“Oh no! Sunflora lost!” my opponent cried returning the Sun Pokémon to its Pokéball. “Good match!” she continued before walking out of the room.

“Excellent job! That’s twenty victories! Would you like to continue battling, rest, or retire?” asked the female referee, identifiable by her green uniform. I don’t know why they have to wear those silly hats though.

“What do you think Axel?” I asked turning to him. The Flame Pokémon put his hand to his chin to think.

A quick rest would be nice. I don’t need one, but Snorlax took a beating from that last Trainer’s Hariyama.” he replied.

“Fair enough. We’ll rest for a bit.” I told the ref.

“Very well sir. Step out into the lobby please.” she instructed. Axel and I followed her out of the arena into a large open lobby with grey flooring. In the center of the floor was a pentagon with grey circles on four of the five points. The circle on the upper point was red indication that this facility was Battle Tower. Around the Battle Frontier logo were four statues that looked like deformed stars with Pokéballs on one of the points. I guess they’re supposed to represent people holding the Pokéballs or something.

After getting my Pokémon healed, I sat with Axel on one of the many benches drinking from our water bottles and watching the other trainers prepare themselves, conversate, or just wander around aimlessly.

After leaving Raiden and the others, I flew on Aerodactyl to Vermillion City and took the SS Aqua to Olivine City, and from there walked to the Johto Battle Frontier. I had heard good things about it, but never officially visited before. Since I wanted a straight fight, I chose Battle Tower as it was the only one of the five facilities not to have any silly gimmicks.

It was nice being able to enjoy a battle for a change instead of worrying about casualties. I had my Pokémon battle each other and wild Pokémon before coming here just to make sure we were still capable of friendly competition. It was nice to know that we were. It was also nice to know that we haven’t lost our edge. The opponents in Battle Tower weren’t exactly pushovers. In battles 1-7 I used Axel, Piloswine, and Riolu; battles 8-14 Axel, Beldum, and Aerodactyl; and battles 15-21 Axel, Snorlax, and Piloswine. Only one battle left in this round.

“We needed this.” I said with a relaxed sigh.

Yeah we did. All this fighting makes for good training too.” agreed the Infernape. I nodded with a smile, but my smile faded when I saw a familiar female with white blonde hair wandering the lobby as if searching for something. Or rather someone.

What the hell is she doing here?” Axel wondered bitterly.

“Isn’t it obvious? She’s searching for us.” I said disdainfully. My inner dragon so badly wanted to run over there and claw Eve’s throat out and spill her internal organs, but my human rational told me that murder in a place like this was an extremely bad idea. Surrounded by so many powerful trainers meant there was no escape. That, and I would have to flee from Team Neos permanently for killing one of my own. Instead, I decided it would be easier to try to blend in with the crowd until it was time for my next match. Unfortunately, we were spotted.

“There you are!” Eve called walking over to us. Axel and I crossed our arms and stared at her hatefully. I even gave her an inhuman snarl so Eve would get the idea that she was the last human I wanted to deal with right now. The blonde paused before throwing her hands up in submission.

“Look, I know you probably hate me-”

“No, I do hate you.” I interrupted.

“Right. But anyway, I need you to come back with me.” she requested.

“Why should I?” I questioned spitefully.

“Raiden ordered it. Do you know what happens to traitors and deserters? They get hunted down and eliminated.” said Eve answering her own question.

“So you want to finish what you started in the Safari Zone.” I said venomously. Granted, I may have been harsher than necessary considering her tone was nothing but submissive, but I wanted Eve to feel my pain.

“No, see Raiden didn’t report you to the superiors. The five of us are the only ones who know you left. He ordered us to bring you back so he wouldn’t have to report you. I’m just the one who found you first.” she explained.

“Lucky me.” I said sarcastically.

“I’m glad that I found you fist because…” Eve looked like she was having a hard time coming up with the words to say next. “Because I wanted t apologize.” she said lowering her head.

“For nearly killing me? Yeah… Not forgiven.” I blew off dismissively.

“I’m not asking for forgiveness! I just wanted you to know that I’m deeply sorry for shooting you with Ice Beam. I had no idea it would have that effect on you!” she informed.

“You stupid bitch! I’m a Dragon-human hybrid. What the hell did you think was going to happen?” I yelled in a hushed voice. I didn’t want onlookers hearing our conversation after all.

“I don’t know! I thought you’d react like a Dragonair. It would hurt enough to get your attention, but you’d still walk away from it. You have proven to be very tough in the past.” admit Eve unsurely.

“Dragon-human hybrid.” I repeated. “I have the strength, speed, and endurance of a Dragon-type Pokémon, but I still possess the frailness of a human along with the weaknesses of my type. Ice-type attacks don’t exactly tickle. They are extremely unpleasant to me and may even be fatal! Have you ever felt your blood crystallize? Because I almost did!” I spat. I watched Eve blink hard while making various facial expressions as if she was trying to hold back tears. Don’t tell me the sociopath actually has a heart and was about to cry. I may actually laugh at the irony of that.

“I know that! I feel awful about it! I like tormenting people, I like playing with people as if they’re my toys, but I can’t kill someone unless they deserve it or it’s a necessary evil. I may be cruel and manipulative at times, but I do have standards.” Eve said defensively. To bad for her I wasn’t buying it.

“I will not forgive you and I will not acknowledge your apology. If you are truly sorry, you will find a way to make this up to me some how.” I told her flatly.

“I won’t give you sexual favors.” she rejected. I couldn’t believe her!

“Depraved woman! Who the hell do you think I am? Zack Kaguya? I wasn’t going to ask for anything like that!” I yelled furiously, this time not caring about my tone or who heard me.

“Settle down. It was a joke. I thought some light humor would help ease the situation a bit.” said Eve waving her hands up and down telling me to keep my voice down.

“Well I’m not laughing.” I said unamusedly. Eve sighed.

“I know. That was mostly for me. I hate feeling this vulnerable in front of people.” she said hugging herself. “But it’s fine. I’m sure I can think of something to make things right with you.” agreed Eve.

“How dare you! You aren’t supposed to make yourself feel better when begging someone to do something for you. You are supposed to be absolutely submissive!” I shot back irately. Eve lowered her head shamefully and this time I’m sure I saw tears starting to flow. So she was telling the truth after all. Either that or she’s a better actress than I ever gave her credit for. I think I’ll test her sincerity.

“You had just better hope that our enemies don’t realize what happened back there. If they were smart enough to form an alliance, then there’s a chance they will be smart enough to notice the correlation that me plus Ice-type attacks equals me out of commission. If that happens, we’re all screwed. And if by some miracle I live through their assault, I will kill you regardless of the consequences.” I told her flatly.

“Raiden already told me about that. That is why I’m so sorry about it. Not only did I wrong you once, but I may have left you open to further, undeserved torture. The rest of us would be left vulnerable because we’d have to help you or suffer the loss of one of our own.” she responded. Then Eve looked to the floor in shame. “I- I hate feeling vulnerable. If people know your weaknesses they’ll take advantage of you. In the end you’ll just be hurt and feeling like a loser and I also hate losing. I hate losing games, I hate losing battles, and I hate losing people. It’s such an awful feeling.”

“For once we agree. But you still owe me, remember that.” I said dryly. Eve may have put it in a self-centered perspective, but the idea is the same. People fight to protect what they care about because the pain of loss is so great it can be unbearable. I fight Team Rocket not just to avenge Madison’s murder, but so that other innocent people don’t suffer as well.

“Sir, are you ready for your next match?” asked the ref coming for me. I turned to Eve.

“May I? You did say you had to take me back.” I asked her.

“True, but I haven’t told anyone that I actually found you yet.” replied Eve with half a smile.

“Good. But this doesn’t make us even yet!” I reminded.

“I can accept that.” she granted. I smirked as I followed the referee to the arena for my twenty-first match. I took a deep breath to clear my mind of my rage. I wanted this final battle to be fun.
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So… s-strong…” panted Axel wearily as I walked him out of the arena. I had no idea this battle was going to be against Tower Tycoon Palmer. We were very unprepared for such a formidable opponent. Rhyperior, Milotic, and Dragonite all had an advantage over Axel, but luckily I had Piloswine to fight Dragonite, and Snorlax to handle Milotic leaving Axel to do his best against Rhyperior. In the end, I barely came out on top. Both Snorlax and Piloswine were knocked out and Axel was very low on health, but we pulled through in the end.

“Do did you win?” inquired Eve, who had been waiting for us outside. I still despised her, but it would be rude not to answer.

“We did. After Axel and my other Pokémon get healed, I’m to meet Palmer outside so we can take a commemorative photo outside the Tower.” I told her. As soon as Axel could stand on his own, I met the Tower Tycoon outside Battle Tower.

“There’s Mr. Spectacular!” called a man in his thirties with spiky blonde hair cheerfully motioning us over. That was Palmer, the Frontier Brain. He wore long khaki pants, black shoes, and a white shirt underneath a green trench coat. In order to be allowed to participate in the Battle Frontier, I needed to first purchase a Vs Recorder to keep track of my matches. I pulled my Vs Recorder from my pocket and handed it to one of the green uniformed employees so that he could get a picture on it of me, Axel, and Palmer.

The Tower Tycoon threw his arms over my and Axel’s shoulders with a wide grin. The monkey and I leaned close to Palmer giving a thumbs-up and victorious smirks to the photographer.

“Say Frontier Brain!” shouted the photographer before snapping the picture with my Vs Recorder. “There you go! Your Tower Print has been saved.” he said handing it back to me.

“Thanks. And thank you Palmer for that excellent battle.” I said appreciatively.

“Brian, I know you will become even more skilled. Keep battling Trainers from around the world and keep growing greater in stature!” encouraged Palmer. I smiled and nodded.

Before leaving the Battle Frontier, I was given a Bronze Trophy for winning twenty consecutive battles in Battle Tower and each of my Pokémon was awarded a Ribbon for beating Palmer. I put the ribbons in the trophy and put that in an empty Item Ball I had in my backpack.

“Alright Eve, report in that you found me.” I told her. I was still feeling good about my recent victory but I was starting to feel down now that I had to return to work.

“Already done. I called in while you were getting your Commemorative Print. Raiden says to meet him in Saffron City.” she debriefed. “Also, I know I’m in no place to request anything from you, but could you please keep what happened here between us? I don’t want the others to know I actually have a nice side.” Eve beseeched.

“Heh. As far as I’m concerned, you were just playing nice so that I wouldn’t destroy you like I do to so many others that get on my bad side.” I said. I didn’t say this, but why would I put someone I loathe in a positive light anyway?

“Thanks.” she said somewhat relieved. “And I promise, I will find a way to make things right. We have to work together so I would rather there not be bad blood between us.”

Getting to Saffron City was no easy task. Or I should say it was a very unpleasant one. Without a Flying-type Pokémon of her own, Eve and I had to sit uncomfortably close together on Aerodactyl’s back on our way to Goldenrod City. We had to spend more time together in taking the Magnet Train to Saffron. At least there, we could keep our distance. The only good thing that came out of this situation was that my tolerance of her grew; something I would need for us to effectively work together again on future missions.

“This is the place.” Eve said looking at a piece of paper that she had written the address on and comparing it to the apartment building we were standing in front of. It was a bit shoddy. It was a brick building with peeling yellow paint on it.

Well let’s go. And don’t worry Monkey, I’ll stay with you while Raiden gives you your lecture.” promised Axel. How encouraging. We walked inside to the apartment number written on the slip.

“We’re back!” called Eve knocking on the old wooden door. The one to answer the door was, luckily, Zack who had a big smile on his face.

“Hey buddy! Hey beautiful!” he greeted happily leading us in. The apartment was small and not exactly the cleanest thing around. Of all the places we’ve stayed in the past this was definitely the dirtiest and in the sketchiest possible neighborhood. This almost felt like the kind of place Team Rocket would hang out which was all the more disgusting. Why would Raiden take us to the ghetto of Saffron City unless we had a mission? Of course maybe we did.

“Brian, tell me you hit that during your alone time with her.” asked Zack.

“Define hit. If you mean sex her, then no, certainly not. If you mean smack her, I wanted to but I restrained myself.” I answered.

“Unlike you Kaguya, Brian’s a perfect gentleman to a lady. Granted, he probanly wouldn’t know what to do with a woman if she threw herself at him.” teased Eve.

“Oh be quiet.” I said sardonically. I would have usually retorted with a snarky quip, but I was still too pissed at her to bother with one.

“I’m glad your back.” said Chane coming to join us.

“I guess it’s good to be back.” I said indifferently. “I just wish you or Zack had been the ones to find me. I really didn’t feel like dealing with Eve.” I admit. Chane looked happy to hear that, but at the same time dispirited that I was still a bit grumpy. Then Raiden entered the room giving me the most disappointed and unpleased look he could make.

“Hey Master Raiden. How goes it?” I inquired trying to appear calm.

“A word Brian.” he demanded motioning me closer. I took a deep breath preparing for the tongue lashing of my life as I walked towards Raiden.

All of a sudden Raiden reached out, grabbed me by the shirt collar and threw me against the wall. Before I could react to the shock of getting thrown or the pain now in my back and head from colliding with the wall, Raiden held out an Item Ball in his right hand which burst open to reveal a long black spear with a silver fang-shaped blade, yellow lightning bolt patterns on the shaft, a spiked blue ball at the base of the shaft, and a purple ribbon flowing like cloud connected to the weapon by a blue crest shaped like an ‘X’. I leaned my head as far back against the wall as I could as the blade of the spear was placed against my neck. I was in too much shock to even swallow out of fear that the blade would slit my throat.

“Raiden! Stop!” screamed Chane.

Hold it!” Axel yelled running to attack Raiden. In a swift motion with his left hand, Raiden’s Electabuzz appeared in the room to block off Axel. I motioned my hand telling the Infernape to stand down. I was sure Raiden wasn’t going to kill me. If that had been his intention, I’d already be dead. The Flame Pokémon growled as he unwilling took the order. I shifted my eyes back at Raiden who in turn looked back at me once he was sure my Pokémon was no longer an issue.

“Brian, need I remind you that Team Neos does not accept resignations? Traitors and deserters will receive the maximum punishment.” my superior refreshed. “I understood that you never intended to leave us, that is why I did not report you. However, insubordinate behavior is still insubordinate behavior and will not be tolerated. Your disregard for orders in the past may have led to success, but this time you nearly cost us! Believe me, there will be repercussions for this! As of right now you are on probation so I suggest you behave yourself. Any further defiance from you will result in punishment ranging from solitary confinement for an allotted time period to elimination. I would rather it not come to that, but if you try to run away again, I will execute you with this spear myself. Do I make myself clear?” Raiden paused giving me the opportunity to speak, but didn’t relax the spear at all.

“Yes…” I choked not daring to say anymore out of fear for my life. This was the angriest I had ever seen Raiden and I didn’t want to push my luck.

“Good. Now stop being so egotistical and prideful and look at the big picture for once. Retreating is the same as victory if it means living to fight another day. Rushing into battle aimlessly puts the rest of us at a disadvantage because we either have to risk our lives to save you or sacrifice one fifth of our fighting strength. Think about what is best for everyone, not just yourself and learn to control your impulses better. That is an order; one I suggest you take to heart and follow obediently. Need I remind you that a Pokémon is only as strong as its trainer?”

“No…” I responded deciding that it’s safest to keep my responses at one syllable.

“Then don’t be weak.” retorted the Third Seat finally lowering his spear. I took a deep breath and rubbed my neck now that there wasn’t a sharp object pinning me to the wall. Axel rushed over to my side now that I was no longer in danger. Everyone else in the room looked relieved that no drastic measures had been taken.

Are you ok?” inquired Axel worriedly.

“You ask that too much. But yeah, I’m fine.” I replied. “Master Raiden Arka.” I conceded as I kneeled to my superior placing my hand over my heart. “I swear eternal loyalty to you. I will follow all of your orders and follow you down which ever road of life you choose unless they go completely against my code of honor. If I fail to carry out my oath, then strike me down with that spear.”

“You are so strange sometimes.” said Raiden blankly. “Very well. I will accept your offer, odd as it may be. You call me Master anyway, though I do not know why.”

“Thank you Master.” I thanked gratefully. “So what’s the deal with Team Rocket? Do we have any new information about what happened in the Safari Zone?” I asked.

“It is unfortunate to say that incidents like that are happening all over the world. It would seem that in the wake of Team Magama’s destruction, the three remaining Teams have banded together. What this means for Team Neos is that we have to rethink our methods. Since the formation of this Team Triad, some Neos squads have failed their missions but had gotten away like we did. Others have suffered casualties. There are also sparse reports of the total annihilation of squads. The success rate for Team Neos has dropped 57% in the past week.” explained Raiden grimly.

“It has gotten so bad that the three Captains are now stepping in. They have ordered a halt to all intervention missions until a thorough investigation can take place. Once that is done, they will debrief us on what we need to do. For now, we lay low.” he continued.

“Bastards! We should be out there killing them!” I yelled. Raiden gave me an unamused look for my outburst. “But we’ll stay put and follow orders.” I conceded dejectedly. Raiden smirked, but I could tell it wasn’t from my compliance.

“Who said anything about staying here? The five of us are going to headquarters. I do not believe any of you have ever been there before.” he told us.

“You mean we actually have one?” Zack said sarcastically. “Where at?”

“Right below us. Or to be more precise, below the city. You see, the reason the Underground Paths were closed was not because of vandalism. Team Neos acquired the four entrances and expanded the paths into a functional base. Only someone with a Team Neos ID may enter.” explained Raiden.

“We are so awesome!” I cheered proudly. “No one other than Team Neos would be genius enough to build a city sized base underground. We seriously rock!”

“As magnificent as that is, I have to ask. How structurally sound is it? I mean, what are the odds of Saffron City caving in on top of us?” Zack questioned.

“Or worse, the city’s sewage leaking in.” added Eve.

“Headquarters is structurally sound and secure, do not worry.” assured Raiden. “Now then, the Route 7 Gate House is the closest one to our location. Get yourselves ready, we head out in fifteen minutes.”
*****************

Are you excited? You should be.
 
Agreed.

Raiden gave me such a shock with the whole spear-in-your-face thing, really big WTF moment. Up until then it seemed like a rather relaxed chapter that was used to poke fun (okay, serious bag out and portray her as even more evil than before) at.

And don't worry, I think everyone's excited about this.
 
Great chapter and excellent use of an in-game area. And Now I think Raiden is the most badass character in the story. Then Brian then Creed
 
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Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Eep! Quick announcement everyone! It seems I posted the wrong chapter yesterday! :X About a month ago, my laptop had a really nasty virus so I've been keeping a back up of everything on a flashdrive. I posted the unfinished back up file instead of the up-to-date chapter. :-[ A few extra details have been added before Brian goes to fight Palmer so have a look if you've already read. If you haven't read, then what the hell are you doing reading the comments before hand? :/

Thanks to those who already commented!
 
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You certainly never disappoint, Monkey. *Grins.*

I know I'm a bit late on commenting again, but I do love your recent character development. And while I know Eve wouldn't bounce around like that, realistically, she at least cares enough behind her quite frankly abhorrent attitude to act a little bit. Who knows, maybe we'll see a bit more of that side before she reverts to the usual. *Chuckles.* But then again, probably not.

As for Raiden, he just seems to be made of epic. And his polearm, whether in particular a lance or a spear, only adds to it. Do you have a drawing of the Raikou anywhere? ^_^
I do like the occasional reinforcing of Raiden's status as the Third Seat, though. When seeing him regularly, without displaying the severity or skills, it drifts to the back of one's mind. But the chapters where he shows them point blank, or even the zero-tolerance of deserters in Neos in general, are something I'd imagine most people can't forget.

It was nice to see Brain getting some consequences for his cavalier actions, though. His Dragon-Forme side is cool, yes, but he's still techinically human. Meaning he - and judging from Raiden's opinion, as well - certainly isn't above the law. Well, if it can be called that. *Shrug.* But we're definitely getting some interesting development here.

Looking forward to more from you. ^_^
 
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Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
*Drags out of the Abyss >:D * Guess what today is everybody? Rise of Tam Neos's 3rd birthday! Three years ago today I graced PokeCharms with the first chapter of this fic and I've never missed a birthday since.

Even better news is that my writer's block is cured! The motivation to write has never been this strong in three years so hopefully you'll be seeing more of RoTN this year.

Now before I let you read this long awaited chapter, I'd just like to dedicate this chapter to Sir Red for without RoTN he would never have joined PokeCharms. Here's to you my Charms son! ^-^

Chapter 36: Counter Measures

Well ok, so Headquarters wasn’t exactly city sized like I thought it would be. The former Underground Path that had run east to west from Route 7 to Route 8 had only been expanded to cover the southern half of Saffron City. Even so, the ceiling was made with reinforced steel as a safety precaution, both to keep the city from caving in on us and to block Gym Leader Sabrina’s Psychic powers. Unfortunately Team Neos couldn’t use something intangible like Darkness to completely block her, hence why HQ doesn’t cover the northern half of the city where her Gym is located. At least not the top floor.

The north to south Underground Path that ran from Route 5 to Route 6 had traveled beneath the Routes 7 and 8 Path so that now served as the lowest floor of the base. That floor covered the entire eastern half of Saffron which unluckily was under Sabrina’s Gym. Once again, reinforced steel made up the roof. It amazed me to no end how such an elaborate structure had been created without anyone noticing. Not just the actual construction work, but also the amount of money this place must have taken to expand and fill with state of the art equipment. The ingeniousness and ingenuity of Team Neos truly was amazing.

In the week since we got here, I have done nothing but train myself and my Pokémon. Team Neos had three types of battle facilities: one for Pokémon Battles, one for human verses human brawls, and one for squad verses squad. For Pokémon Battles, I only challenged my fellow Officers. I wouldn’t refuse a battle if a Grunt challenged me, but I wouldn’t go after them. As far as competition went, the Grunts were a cake walk and barely a warm-up to me while the Officers were a mixed bag. The ones on the lower end of the spectrum got curb stomped, while the ones at the higher end made for really close challenging battles. In the few battles I lost, most could have gone either way while only one or two was an uphill struggle from the get go. I liked the idea that on the Officer hierarchy I was one of the elites, but then I guess I wouldn’t have been chosen for Raiden’s personal squad if I wasn’t.

I also dabbled in fighting my fellow Team members in hand-to-hand combat. To keep things fair I always restrained my Dragon abilities since I didn’t want to shred my own comrades with that destructive power. Ironically, like Pokémon Battles, I found the Grunts to be easier to dominate in a sparing match and Officers to be a mixed bag. It’s like Raiden always said, “A Pokémon is only as good as its Trainer.”

As for the squad verses squad training, that also came in several flavors all of which tested teamwork. Before going a round, the squads would agree on whether this would be a group battle where we have a big battle royal like we’ve experienced in the field, or if it would be a sort of hide-and-seek/ambush scenario. For that one, one squad tries to find the other before getting found themselves. Naturally, this training room was incredibly large and had holograms simulating outdoor terrain and/or obstacles to navigate around.

Unfortunately, due to recent events, Raiden wouldn’t let us do this type. He said that our teamwork needed refining before challenging others. That is why every morning we divided into 2-on-2 battles with each other where the goal wasn’t to win, but to cover our partner and achieve victory because of them. Since there were five of us, we were doing rotation battles meaning one person sat out while the other four battled and then had their turn while someone else was on the sidelines.

After that, we were free to go about our own business which is when I engaged in my other battles. Luckily being barred from combat wasn’t part of my probation. Raiden agreed that it is important that my Pokémon and I remain in top fighting condition for when we go back in the field. I did however have to constantly report in so that he knew my whereabouts and what I was doing at all times. It was like being treated like a child and I hated it! Not even my own parents had given me a curfew or such conditions! But I did bring this on myself afterall so I guess I shouldn’t complain.

Heads up!” I had no time to react before Axel smacked me upside the head.

“Ow! What the hell was that for?” I yelled at him holding the back of my head.

You looked distracted. So what’s on your mind Monkey Boy?” asked my partner as we walked to the training facility to meet up with Raiden and the others.

“Oh you know. This and that.” I responded nonchalantly. “Just thinking about recent events and how things just seem to be so messed up and weird right now. Even with all the battling and training, it just doesn’t feel right knowing that Team Rocket is still out there committing crimes and hurting those who can’t defend themselves. I hate doing nothing about it!” I raised my voiced and clenched my fists on the last sentence.

“Except you are not doing nothing about it.” I turned around to see Raiden coming down the hall to the facility as well. “Everyday you and your Pokémon spend battling and training is a day you all grow stronger both as individuals and as a unit. It is so that when the time is right, we can defeat our enemies no matter how many or how formidable they may be.” he explained sagely.

“I know you’re right Master, but still…” I sighed unhappily. Axel gave me a reassuring pat on the back.

Hang tough. We’ve been through worse.” reassured the Flame Pokémon. “I think.” he added after a pause.

“Come. Our battle today should take your mind off things. I have a special surprise for you four.” hinted Raiden. That perked me up a bit. What could he possibly have in store for us? Whatever it is, I’m excited!

Much to my continued restlessness, Raiden and I were the first ones to arrive so we had to wait for everyone else. Within fifteen minutes, Zack, Chane, and finally Eve arrived to join us. Of course Eve would be the one to hold us up. In our double battles, she is the hardest one for me to work with. The main reason is because I still despise her for freezing me, and secondly because our battle styles are just so contradictory. I’m the type to adapt to any situation as the battle progresses. She, on the other hand, wants to control the battle from beginning to end which includes my movements as well. So frustrating!

“Good morning everyone.” greeted our superior formally. “Today we are taking your training to the next level. All four of you will work together in trying to defeat me.” he announced.

“A-are you serious Raiden? We’re not strong enough!” Chane said doubtfully.

“And no offence to Lloyd, but I don’t think he and I will be much use against your Electric-types.” Zack pointed out.

“Alone I could defeat you all, but working together you may have a chance. And do not worry Zack. If your teammates properly watch out for you, then Lloyd will receive minimal damage.” encouraged Raiden. “Here is my proclamation: I will use all six of my Pokémon at once, while you all are only allowed one each.”

“Hold on! How is that fair?” Eve called out. “That’s four against six and none of us have beaten you in the past when doing double battles.”

“Like I said, all four of you need to work together.” he repeated. “In the field you will face multiple powerful Trainers and Pokémon at once with only limited numbers on your side. Alone you are strong, together you can be unstoppable. Now choose your Pokémon wisely. It has to be one that will benefit your teammates. Picking a Pokémon with Earthquake to counter my Electric-types is practical in single battle, but catastrophic in multi-battle. You have one minute to select.”

With that, Raiden threw down all six of his Pokéballs releasing Electrode, Manectric, Magnezone, Raichu, Jolteon, and Electabuzz. Zack’s choice was obvious, despite Raiden’s warning, Eve chose Steelix, Chane went with Lucy to help heal the rest of us, and I selected Axel since his Fire/Fighting-type combination will help with Magnezone.

“Good choices. The first move is yours.” offered Raiden.
---------

Unbelievable. Absolutely unbelievable. In just ten minutes Raiden swept all four of us losing only Magnezone and only because we all ganged up on it at the start. The rest of his Pokémon were just too fast and too strong.

“Well that was depressing.” Raiden said stoically. “Combined, your power levels should exceed my own. How disappointing.”

“We told you this would happen! We knew there was no way to beat you!” Eve snapped. Raiden only shook his head.

“Master Raiden. It’s because we had doubt in beating you that we failed, correct?” I asked remembering from past experiences.

“Correct. If you go into battle believing you will lose, you will. Go into battle believing you can win and complementing one another’s movements and battle styles will give you the power you need to overcome your foes.” he enlightened. “Now go heal your Pokémon. I want to try this exercise again.” Raiden was interrupted by the sound of his phone ringing. He reached into his pocket pulling out his cell phone.

“Third Seat Arka speaking.” he answered professionally. “…As a matter of fact I am with my squad right now. …Yes, I understand. …Very well, we will do that at once.”

“So what’s the deal?” Zack inquired once Raiden hung up his phone.

“That was Lt. Deter. The Captains have come to a consensus on what to do about the Team Triad problem. We are to gather in the auditorium in one hour to hear what they have to say.” informed Raiden. I started grinning. Finally!
--------

The auditorium was gigantic! It was several times larger than the training facility in Goldenrod where I was recruited and had enough room to comfortably fit hundreds of Neos at once. And it was packed! Neos members of all ranks were crowded around like any other major gathering. At the front of the room was a small stage where people could give presentations and above the stage was a huge TV screen. I guess that was to show the people in the far back what was going on up on stage.

How much longer until the Captains show up?” Axel asked me.

“Soon I hope.” I said in anticipation. I was eager to finally meet the three highest ranking members of this organization besides Strife and Arthias. I couldn’t help but feel jittery. Soon enough, a handful of people dressed in our uniform walked on to the stage including a certain obnoxious midget.

“Alright listen up you maggots!” Lt. Deter yelled to all of us. “Stand at attention to formally present yourselves to the superiors you lesser beings could never hope to strive to compete with!” Well isn’t he an encouraging little man. Surprisingly, that ego maniacal runt wasn’t up on the big screen like I thought he would be.

“Don’t you just want to kick that little shit?” Eve said darkly. I could almost imagine her picking Little Charlie up by his head, letting him go, then punting him over the horizon. Just the thought made me giggle. The sound of static alerted me to the TV screen coming on. Three boxes appeared on the screen arranged with two on top and one on the bottom. Inside each box was the face of one of the Captains. I guess they weren’t coming here in person after all. Oh well.

“Yo Team Neos! I am Captain Gabriel King!” greeted a cheerful man with spiky brown hair and bright blue eyes giving us all a quick wave. His image was at the top right.

“Captain King, please act more professionally.” scolded a man with long silver hair and dull green eyes. He was in the top left corner of the screen. “Forgive my colleague. I am Captain Damian Sinclair.”

“Aw don’t be such a kill joy Damian. What’s wrong with being cordial with our underlings? Hi! I’m Captain Alexandra Ross!” introduced a woman with shoulder length dark red hair and blue eyes on the bottom part of the screen. So she’s the captain Raiden mentioned.

“Yeah, you tell him Alex!” supported Captain King. “Anyway, let’s get down to business before we lose credibility with our organization. As I’m sure all of you are aware of by now, in the wake of Team Magma’s demise at the hands of yours truly, Teams Aqua, Rocket, and Galactic joined forces and are now calling themselves Team Triad.”

“Since the appearance of Team Triad, our success rate for intervention missions has gone down 70%. That is unacceptable.” Captain Ross cut in. “Our people are out numbered and out classed by these new developments. Or so it would seem.” she added with a smirk.

“Our Black Ops department has made a crucial discovery that will turn the tides of combat back to our favor.” said Captain Sinclair professionally. The screen changed to displaying a world map of Hoenn, Johto, Kanto, and Sinnoh. “The unity of these past rival organizations is not without its costs. Their alliance is an uneasy one. It functions solely on equivalent exchange. For example, for every Rocket and Galactic sent to Hoenn to aide Team Aqua, an Aqua must be sent abroad so the other Teams do not feel cheated or weakened.” the Captain’s voice continued as blue arrows spread out of Hoenn to the other three regions while black arrows came out of Kanto and Johto and grey arrows came from Sinnoh leading into Hoenn.

“I’m sure a lot of you are now wondering why your squads have been out numbered on the field even though the number of foes remains the same.” Captain King chimed in. “Team Triad wants us to think they’re unstoppable by travelling in larger groups. Instead of having, say, ten groups of five, they’re in two groups of twenty-five now. They’re working together but they’re still scared of us. They want us to be afraid too so they try to intimidate us. They think fear will weaken us.”

“But it will not.” The three Captains reappeared on screen as Captain Sinclair spoke those rousing words.

“If all of you are as smart as I hope you are, you should have already figured out what we have planned.” Captain Ross teased at. “To beat our enemy’s unity and numbers, we must unify our own forces and increase the numbers within our squads.”

By her words alone I was already getting psyched to the point I wanted to laugh maniacally, but I suppressed my excitement until they finished so I wouldn’t miss any important details.

“The very existence of Team Triad shows us that our enemies are no longer playing around meaning we should not play around either.” Captain Sinclair declared. “As usual, Grunts will not be assigned intervention type missions. They will continue with their usual duties. Likewise, squads consisting of only Officers will not be assigned to intervention missions. To engage with Team Triad, squads must include a minimum of one Seated Officer. Low level seats like Tenth and Nineth must be accompanied by another Seated Officer. No exceptions.”

“Also,” Captain King spoke up, “even with the union of squads, my fellow Captains and I feel that is still not enough to defeat Team Triad. The moment Galactic, Rocket, and Aqua teamed up, they declared open war on Team Neos. Therefore, you will show no mercy! In the past, killing your opponent was left up to the individual or commanding officer. No more. If we are to win, they must be eliminated.” he ordered.

“K-kill them…” Chane repeated nervously.

“Don’t worry. I’ll kill your opponents for you.” I assured her. After all, my hands were already stained with blood, what’re a few more casualties? Still, I love the idea that I now have direct orders from the Captains themselves to carry out my vengeance.

“Another thing.” continued Captain Ross. “From now on, we aren’t going to wait for them to strike and send our people to intervene. No, now we hunt them down! We seek them out, catch them off guard, and slay them on the spot. I’m not even talking about small cells or groups either. The fastest way to kill an Arbok is to cut its head off. We will seek out their command centers and eliminate the chain of command from the top. Not only will the rabble have no direction without their leaders, but they’ll have no where to return to as their bases will be under Neos control.”

“We’ll leave the responsibility of reorganizing the squads to the lieutenants as they have a better idea of the Seated’s strengths and weaknesses.” delegated Captain King. “Remember, be ruthless. Hunt them down and kill them. Interrogate them for information if you must, but leave no survivors. Well, see ya everyone!” The Captain gave a quick slute before his screen went blank.

“Do your worst!” Captain Ross instructed before signing off as well. Captain Sinclair only sighed before his screen also went off.

After a few seconds of silence, the auditorium came to life with roars of cheers and laughter. Everyone was thrilled by the words of our Captains. It meant Team Neos wasn’t beaten yet. In fact, it seemed like we were just getting started! As for me, I was so excited I was trembling and bouncing on the balls of my feet. We would soon have enough manpower to bring the Rockets, or Triad, whatever the hell the want to be called, to extinction! Yes!

“Listen up everyone!” shouted one of the other Lieutenants. “You are all dismissed until further notice! We will notify you all once we have determined how to merge the squads as per the Captains’ decree and where you will be assigned! That is all!”

“Raiden? W-we won’t be separated will we?” asked Chane in concern.

“We should not be. This merger should only add members, essentially evolving us from a squad of five to a unit of twenty or more. If we are to be separated, then I will inform Captain Ross that I wish to keep each of you as my direct subordinates.” he responded.

“She was pretty hot Raiden and you seem to know her quite well. So what’s the story?” asked Zack in a naughty tone.

“If you must know, when I first joined Team Neos she was my my commanding officer much like I am yours.” he answered matter-of-factly. “Other than that, Captain Ross is my superior and I am her subordinate.”

“So does that mean she’s available?” Zack questioned eagerly.

“Captain Ross’s personal life is none of our business. Show some respect.” Raiden shot down mercilessly.

“If you need me or Axel, we’ll be trainer for the slaughter!” I announced.

“Very well. Keep your phone on for any new announcements.” instructed Raiden.

“Will do. Come Monkey!” I headed to the battle facilities with Axel in tow.
----------

The next day around noonish we were assembled again in the auditorium for the reworking of the teams. The lieutenants began naming off squads based on who the Seated Officers in charge were and telling them who they would be teaming up with. Some were as simple as saying “Join with a team of Officers that serve under you,” while other assignments made it so that the new unit consisted of multiple Seateds.

“First Seat Ken Feng! Second Seat Skylar Eirwyn! Third Seat Raiden Arka! You three will be merged together. You will also gather one of your other Officer teams that serve under you.” Lt. Deter announced when it was his turn to speak. “Your unit is responsible for cleaning up the entire Sevii Island region which is why you are allowed so many high leveled trainers.”

Is that little man still mad at us for the mess we made in Ecruteak?” Axel wondered.

“Who cares! As long as I get to shed Rocket blood, I don’t care if we’re sent out to the boonies or the big city. And with two members theoretically stronger than Master Raiden joining us, there is nothing we can’t do!” I cheered.

“Out of Raiden, Eirwyn, and Feng, Raiden is the lowest ranked so I wonder who will lead us.” Zack mused.

“I will still be in command over the four of you and which ever Officer group I select to unite with us, however Feng will most likely make himself supreme commander. With him there is no democracy.” Raiden told us. It sounds like he has personal experience with the First Seat, but I wasn’t asking any questions no matter how curious I got. Knowing Raiden, he’d either answer evasively or so bluntly that no real answer is given.

After the announcements, we were dismissed and the Seateds were ordered to go through their rosters and select as many squads of Officers as they were previously instructed to. Raiden was given forty eight hours to select a group and join up with the other two Seateds. After that, our witch hunt in the Sevii Islands would begin!
************

Now I haven't written anything besides RP posts and scientific papers in the last nine or ten months so I apologize if this chapter wasn't the quality you're all used to. I'm a bit rusty ^^;
 
First!

I gotta say that I'm thrilled to see a new chapter! I just got all caught up a few days ago and I was eager for more. Sure, this chapter may not have had a lot of action, but it served it's purpose and I definitely liked it. Personally I can't wait to see how the team really learns how to be a cohesive unit capable of wrecking anything >:D
 
Psycho Monkey said:
Now I haven't written anything besides RP posts and scientific papers in the last nine or ten months so I apologize if this chapter wasn't the quality you're all used to. I'm a bit rusty ^^;
I'll admit it wasn't quite the same as previous chapters. But it was an interesting interlude, it was short (which I was looking for now) and it's nice to get a new chapter after so long. I have to admit, I'd quite forgotten about this! I really look forward to new installments =D
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
**NOT AN UP DATE!**
Just saying that now before you people get your hopes up. This is a request from Carmen which I figured would be helpful to all of you as well. Since this fic is pretty long (in fact I dare say it is the longest on PokeCharms) and I (unintentionally) took almost a whole year off from it, I've made up a character sheet based on who has what Pokemon species and what their nicknames are. This only covers the main five. I'll post another one later that has other character's Pokemon. Enjoy.

Brian:

Axel.png

Axel (Thanks goes to Tailon for the gold furred sprite ^-^ )

Spr_4d_447.png

Riolu

Spr_4d_374.png

Beldum

Spr_4p_221_m.png

Piloswine

Spr_4d_143.png

Snorlax

Spr_4d_142.png

Aerodactyl


Eve:

Spr_4d_354.png

Diva

Spr_4d_365.png

Walrein

Spr_4p_405_f.png

Luxray

Spr_4p_407_f.png

Roserade

Spr_4d_208_m.png

Steelix

Spr_4d_031.png

Nidoqueen


Chane:

Spr_4h_018.png

Jace

Spr_4d_286.png

Izzy

Spr_4d_337.png

Luna

Spr_4p_267_f.png

Celia

Spr_4h_184.png

Kermit

Spr_4d_113.png

Lucy


Zack:

Spr_4p_055.png

Lloyd


Raiden:

Spr_4h_125.png

Electabuzz

Spr_4d_026_m.png

Raichu

Spr_4h_101.png

Electrode

Spr_4p_462.png

Magnezone

Spr_4d_310.png

Manectric

Spr_4p_135.png

Jolteon
 
Psycho Monkey said:
**NOT AN UP DATE!**
I've made up a character sheet based on who has what Pokemon species and what their nicknames are. This only covers the main five. I'll post another one later that has other character's Pokemon. Enjoy.
You're post is ridiculously long. You should have arranged it like this:
Brian:
Axel.png
Spr_4d_447.png
Spr_4d_374.png
Spr_4p_221_m.png
Spr_4d_143.png
Spr_4d_142.png

Axel - Riolu - Beldum - Snorlax - Aerodactyl​

And so on. Nit-picking aside, keep the writing going, Monkey. =)
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Hi guys! I have a secret for you. I updated! :p

Chapter 37: Restoring the Balance of Power

This morning we had a meeting in one of the conference rooms to get acquainted with our new unit. Including me and the members of my squad, there were now 22 officers and with the Seateds we had a total of 25 people. After the Seated Officers introduced themselves and took roll call, we departed immediately for Vermillion City to charter a ferry for the Sevii Islands.

As for the Seated Officers, they couldn’t be more different from each other. As I already knew, Raiden was calm, rational, and laidback. That is until you did something stupid that warranted getting a spear pressed against your throat. Second Seat Skylar Eirwyn was an albino female of average height. Like most albinos she had long silver hair and icy blue eyes. She was polite and respectful towards us but also seemed like she could be pretty stern when she needed to be.

Then there was First Seat Ken Feng. He was a very tall thinly built man with narrow condescending grey eyes and long wiry black hair that flowed freely passed his shoulders down to the base of his shoulder blades. I can see why Raiden warned us about him because he was very harsh with the group and acted like he was the most superior person in the room. Technically he was by rank, but still. He even pulled the rank card to name himself commander of our unit just as Raiden anticipated. But enough about that.

Axel and I leaned on the rail of the ferry enjoying the ocean scenery. It was a bright sunny day with semi-choppy waters. The sea was getting rougher the closer we got to the Sevii Islands but the ferry remained unwavering. It was because of these rough waters that the only way to get from island to island was by boat or by flying. No matter how strong a swimmer a Water-type was, it couldn’t look after itself and its trainer at the same time in these currents so it was considered too dangerous to Surf.

“Brian, a word?” Raiden requested coming up behind us. Before I could say anything he motioned for me to follow him inside. The interior of the ferry had two floors for people to rest in in case of bad weather. We were on the lowest floor and from what I could tell completely alone.

“So what’s up Master Raiden?” I asked. He looked around to make sure that no one was around or eavesdropping on our conversation before speaking.

“Brian, these upcoming missions are going to be treacherous and will push us to our limits. Even so, I do not want you to use your Dragon-Forme anymore.” he requested.

“Part of my probation?” I questioned irritably. Our orders from the Captains were to kill and yet he was taking away my most effective weapon.

“No. It is for your safety. Only the five members of our squad know of your… uniqueness.” said Raiden stumbling to pick the right word to describe that particular trait of mine. “I want to keep it that way. I especially do not want Feng to know. If he knew just how powerful you really were he would attempt to use you like a tool.”

I would never allow that to happen.” Axel interjected.

“Neither would I. You know I serve no one but you.” I stated.

“I have known Feng for over six years. You have no idea the kinds of underhanded methods he will use to get what he wants. There is a reason he is a First Seat.” he said coldly.

“I see. I’ll be careful then. But how am I supposed to kill my enemies if I restrain my inner dragon?” I asked.

“The same way us normal humans do: your combat skills and your Pokémon. I would offer you a weapon, however that violates your probation.” he said matter-of-factly.

We’ll work together as we always do!” Axel agreed.

“Damn right we will! I’m already a badass human and when working with you and my other Pokémon there is nothing we can’t do!” I declared.

“Just do not be reckless. I do not want a repeat of the incident in the Safari Zone.” warned Raiden.

“No worries Milord. With all of you guys backing me up I won’t have to rampage.” I assured waving my hand.

But rampaging recklessly is the best part!” whined Axel. “*sigh* But I guess you’re right. We have to behave ourselves if we ever want to get off this stupid probation.” I felt the same way as my monkey. Act like a good boy now, enjoy wanton destruction later. I just hope there would still be some to be had.

After our little chat, we went back outside to await landing in One Island Port. It never made sense to me why the islands all had their own name like Knot Island, but the towns were ‘Number’ Island. There must have been a lot of lazy settlers back in the day. Our first stop was Knot Island for two reasons; first, it was the island closest to Kanto, and second, tomorrow there was a convention in the Pokémon Net Center where all the big names in the Pokémon Storage System industry would be attending. All Team Rocket needed to do was crash the convention, take hostages, steal passwords, and everyone around the world who uses the Storage System, including me, would have their Pokémon at the mercy of those criminals.

As soon as we arrived at One Island, the Seateds gathered everyone in the apartment complex we were renting to go over the battle plan. The place was bigger than expected given the island’s small population. Apparently because Mt. Ember was a popular destination for Trainers to train their Pokémon, Treasure Beach was a popular tourist attraction, and of course the Net Center being what it is, the island’s main business was temporary housing.

“The plan for tomorrow is to send two people into the Net Center as guests. They will be A-Squad. When Team Triad shows up A-Squad will radio the rest of us and we send in a small squad of three to five people. They will be B-Squad.” Feng started off.

“The reason we’re sending in such a small group is to lure our enemies outside away from the civilians. That way no innocent people get hurt and we have more room to fight.” Skylar said.

“And also so we do not lay ruin to the Net Center with all the chaos a massive Pokémon battle like that can cause.” added Raiden shooting me a sideways glance. Axel and I quietly giggled to ourselves remembering the destruction we caused in Ecruteak.

“The two that were there as guests will make sure that every Aqua, Rocket, and Galactic leaves the building before joining us outside to help wipe them out. Any questions?” Skylar finished.

“I have one!” Zack called raising his hand. “Are you single?” he asked the Second Seat.

“Zack!” scolded Raiden.

“Yes I am. What of it?” she responded.

“You’re a very beautiful woman. Would you like to go on a date with me?” he flirted shamelessly. I started snickering about how open he was about this.

“Really Kaguya?” Eve said unamusedly.

“You dog! What right do you think you have to say such a stupid thing to your superiors?” yelled Feng. Zack got grumbles from people I’m assuming were in Skylar’s squad. The Second Seat however seemed amused.

“I like your initiative. But I only go out with strong Trainers. Prove yourself in battle and I might say yes.” she promised. Raiden face-palmed and shook his head.

“You won’t be disappointed.” agreed Zack.

And here I thought things would get boring with all of these people added.” Axel laughed.
-----------------

The following day all the players were set. I would be part of the squad that would stumble in and try to lure Team Triad into our trap. Along with me were three other people that I didn’t know. We waited in the mountains behind the Net Center out of view waiting for the signal to attack from the two inside who were also people I didn’t know. Everyone else were scattered either in the mountains or in the trees to swoop in when we brought out Triad.

“So how is everyone today?” I asked out of boredom and to make small talk with my new accomplices.

“Can’t complain.” replied a male.

“I’m just mad I’m missing the Ponyta Race today.” said another.

“I’ve got you covered. I was TiVoing it myself.” a female responded.

“Awesome! Mind if I come to your room later and watch it with you?” he asked.

“Sure. You’re all welcome to come over if you want.” she offered.

“Yeah I’m in.” said the first guy.

“Why not? I had nothing better to do.” I accepted.

“B-Squad!” the walkie-talkie we had shouted in Feng’s voice. “A-Squad has reported that Team Triad has appeared! Get down there at once!” he ordered.

“Aye aye Captain.” I said back to the walkie-talkie even though I wasn’t the one holding it. Axel and I jumped down the cliff, though the monkey was much more agile about it than I was, followed by my accomplices. I grinned with excitement on how I would take my revenge for what happened in the Safari Zone.

The Pokémon Net Center looked similar to a regular Pokémon Center only it was twice the size of a normal one and had an orange roof instead of the standard Red Roof. It didn’t occur to me until now that the fact that this place also doubled as a Pokémon Center that there would be sick and injured Pokémon there that would also be vulnerable to those thieves, not to mention other Trainers. In the case of the latter, they were screwed whether they took on Triad or not. I could feel my Dragon blood welling up at the thought of combat but had to use every ounce of willpower I had to keep it suppressed.

When we finally reached the base of the mountain, we ran around the side of the Center to the front. Luckily our enemies were either too stupid or too full of themselves to bother leaving guards to protect the entrance allowing use to walk right in.

“And I was like: ‘Oatmeal? Are you crazy!?’” I said randomly and loudly when we entered to draw attention to us. I also got strange looks from my comrades who weren’t quite used to my ways yet.

As expected, our enemies consisted of a large group made predominantly of Rockets but there were still a fair amount of Aquas and Galactics in the mix as well. In the corner of the room were the hostages: the nurses that were on duty, some geeky looking people who must be with Pokémon Storage, and several civilians including the two members of Neos. They were being guarded by a Rocket and a Galactic.

“Uh-oh guys! I heard Team Triad would be here, but I didn’t think there would be so many!” said the female in our group.

“I don’t like this! We should get out of here! I don’t want to die!” shouted Ponyta-race-guy in a panicked voice.

“I agree! Besides, I don’t want them to steal my ultra rare, ultra unique, ultra powerful Infernape!” I threw in to feed their greed.

“You Neophytes aren’t going anywhere!” a female Rocket said readying a Dusk Ball. “Trap them with Spider Web Ariados!” she called throwing the sphere. A large red and yellow arachnid emerged and started spewing a sticky white substance at us. Perhaps I should have worded that better.

“Shit! Run!” yelled the other member of our group. I wasn’t sure if he was genuinely worried about our safety or if he was acting as well.

“Axel! Burn that web and let’s get out of here!” I commanded. The Flame Pokémon shot a quick Flamethrower turning the web into smoldering ash before it could reach us.

Bye bye boo!” he taunted putting his thumb to his nose and waving at our enemies on his way out. Where did he learn that one? It’s great!

“After them!” shouted one of the criminals. I wasn’t looking behind me to see which Team they were from, but I’m assuming Rocket since this is their territory. As planned, a good many flooded out of the Net Center after us.

“Whenever you’re ready C-Squad!” my teammate said to the walkie-talkie. Jumping out of the trees and coming down the mountain were our reinforcements. Two people dressed in casual clothes exited the Net Center meaning all of our enemies were out here. Trap sprung! Now to clean up the trash.

“What is this? Where did all of these Neos come from?” an Aqua questioned sounding rightfully panicked.

“They saw us using a lot of people so they decided to do it too! Nothing but a bunch of copying monkeys!” spat a Galactic.

Hey!” Axel yelled offensively.

“Let’s see… One, two, three, four…” Skylar trailed as she counted our prey. “Oh good! There are 25 of you and 25 of us. Kenny and Raiden, what do you think? One-on-one?” Feng growled at her obviously not liking getting referred to by his first name so casually.

“Yes. We have not yet had a chance to solidify proper teamwork strategies yet so that would be best.” Raiden agreed.

“You better watch me Skylar because my battle skills will turn you on!” Zack proclaimed.

“Now while they’re distracted talking! Attack!” commanded the Rocket in charge. Not waiting for them to strike, I went on the assault towards the nearest Rocket only to get cut off by a Galactic.

“Where do you think you’re going Neophyte?” he asked pompously.

“My fight isn’t with Team Galactic, however I do have a reputation to protect!” I said pulling a Pokéball from my belt. “Let’s go Beldum!” I called summoning the Iron Ball Pokémon to battle.

“Go Croagunk!” the Galactic responded sending out a blue frog with red cheeks, yellow eyes, black feet, and black hands with red middle fingers. The amphibian shuttered nervously at the sight of Beldum. “Attack them first with Poison Jab!” he commanded. The Toxic Mouth Pokémon’s fist glowed purple as it rushed to my Pokémon.

“Iron Defense Beldum!” I called. Beldum’s body sheened with a fresh coat of metal causing Croagunk’s attack to bounce right off.

“It didn’t work!?” my opponent cried in shock.

“Didn’t you know? Steel-types are immune to Poison-type attacks.” I informed. “Now for your Pokémon to feel a world of pain! Beldum! Use Zen Headbutt!” The Iron Ball Pokémon’s head glowed blue with Psychic energy as it rocketed at Croagunk.

“Attack first with Sucker Punch!” called the Galactic. The frog threw a punch at Beldum before it could hit. Beldum was temporarily stunned from the cheap shot but quickly resumed his assault dealing heavy damage to Croagunk. The amphibian staggered back with its hands over its stomach and its eyes wide with pain.

“Keep it up Beldum! Take Down!” I encouraged. My Pokémon reared back again before throwing its entire body into the frog.

“Pwn this n00b! Attack with Revenge Croagunk!” the Galactic ordered. And just who the hell does he think he’s calling a n00b? The Toxic Mouth Pokémon channeled all of its pain into a powerful punch that sent Beldum flying back a few feet.

“Now use Nasty Plot and Mud Bomb!” the Galactic followed up taking advantage of the situation. The amphibian rubbed its hands together with a malevolent smirk on its face. It then gathered up as much dirt and mud as it could off the ground into a giant brown ball which it then threw at Beldum.

“Power through that with Zen Headbutt!” I commanded. Beldum rocketed at the giant mud sphere that was hurdling towards it. The two collided with each other causing the Mud Bomb to explode sending its contents raining down on the field. Beldum, while staggering midair from the heavy damage it took, continued its attack. Croagunk attempted to dodge by jumping out of the way, but the Iron Ball Pokémon slammed into the frog’s side knocking it to the ground unconscious.

“No way!” cried the Galactic. “Hey guys! How about some help?” he called to his partners. Unfortunately for him, they were as occupied with my accomplices as he was with me.

“Now Beldum! Iron Head the Galactic!” I commanded mercilessly.

“No way! Chatot! Help!” he yelled throwing down an Ultra Ball. Appearing in a white light to take Beldum’s attack was a bird with a black feathered head shaped like a music note, blue wings, a green body, a yellow chest, white feathers around its neck, and more black feathers on its tail. The Music Note Pokémon squawked as Beldum smashed into it.

“Put that thing to sleep with Sing!” ordered my opponent. Axel and I covered our ears as we knew what was about to happen. Chatot chirped a relaxing melody that made Beldum drowsy until it finally succumbed and fell to the ground asleep.

“You did well Beldum.” I said calling back my Pokémon. “Have at it Aerodactyl!” I threw another Pokéball releasing my winged terror to battle. “Use Steel Wing!” The Fossil Pokémon screeched, flying at his opponent at high speed with his wings covered in metallic silver, then smacked the parrot.

“I like that move. Copy it with Mimic Chatot and use Steel Wing!” called the Galactic. Chatot flew at Aerodactyl with its own wing now metallic. My Pokémon shrieked in annoyance at having his attack used against him.

“Didn’t like that Aero? Then use something they won’t like! Rock Slide!” I suggested. The prehistoric predator seemed to enjoy that idea. He allowed himself to plummet to the ground landing on his feet and sending shock waves through the ground. Large stones erupted from the ground striking the Music Note Pokémon hard. Chatot fluttered weakly trying to stay airborne.

“Oh yeah? Copy them again with Mirror Move Chatot!” commanded my opponent. Chatot did the same movements as Aerodactyl yielding similar results. The parrot however lacked the experience, training, and natural talent Aerodactyl possessed meaning less rocks were produced for its Rock Slide.

Hey Aerodactyl! Quit screwing around and finish this!” Axel taunted. The predator screeched angrily at the monkey for that.

“Well prove him wrong with Ice Fang!” I told my beast.

“No you don’t! Use Chatter!” the Galactic commanded. Chatot started making annoying cries but they didn’t last long. The Fossil Pokémon shut the bird up very quickly by sinking his serrated fangs into the bird causing it to squawk in pain, even more so from the frost coming out of the ancient predator’s mouth. Aerodactyl thrashed his head a bit then spit out the severely bloodied Music Note Pokémon. Its chest was still moving up and down so it was still alive, but it would need serious medical attention if it was to stay alive. My eye twitched at what my Pokémon had just done, but I can’t say I blame him. After all, soon I’ll be doing the same to the Galactic.

“What have you done?” sobbed the Galactic at the grievous harm caused to his Pokémon. He quickly returned it before any more harm could be dealt to it.

“Send out your next Pokémon if you have one.” I told the Galactic emotionlessly. Yes, Aerodactyl went further than he should have but this was war. Severe injurious should be expected. Besides, in the event Chatot dies from those injuries it will be spared the pain of losing its Trainer. “Axel, go fight.” I told my Pokémon.

My turn finally!” the Infernape said excitedly while I recalled Aerodactyl.

“You’ll pay for what you did to Chatot! Avenge your partner Venomoth!” he called throwing a Pokéball. Emerging from it was a purple moth with big blue eyes and small fangs in its mouth. “Make that Infernape feel agony! Blast it with Toxic!” Venomoth spewed a purple liquid from its mouth that splashed all over Axel.

Son of a bitch!” he yelled angrily.

“Hang in there Axel! Use Flame Wheel while I look for something to cure your Poisoning.” I told him getting out the Item Ball that held my backpack. The monkey’s head flame raged as he curled into a ball and rolled into his opponent. Venomoth let out a painful cry as it was left with a burn.

“Don’t let them win! Show them how l33t you are with Psychic!” called the Galactic.

Fuck me.” the Flame Pokémon said in a deadpan tone. His sarcasm was quickly replaced by screams of agony as both he and Venomoth were surrounded by a purple glow. Along with this mental assault, the monkey was also being worn down physically by the effects of poison. The Poison Moth Pokémon however couldn’t keep its attack up long as it too was suffering from its burn.

“Axel! I found a Pecha Berry! Keep Venomoth busy with Fire Spin!” I commanded.

’Bout time!” he said happily before blowing a fiery tornado at the insect trapping it in the spiraling vortex. I threw the Berry at Axel which he caught and quickly ate. In a few seconds he looked good as new.

“Break free with Gust!” my foe called. From inside the flaming cyclone came a powerful gust of wind sending sparks and embers flying, but it did nothing to free the hapless moth. It did do enough damage to Axel to annoy him a bit though.

“Finish it with Flare Blitz!” I commanded.

With pleasure!” responded the Flame Pokémon igniting his entire body in a large inferno. He lunged into the fire and tackled Venomoth to the ground leaving the Pokémon unconscious. The Infernape got up and cracked his neck and arms a few time. “Too easy.” he chided.

“I can’t believe I lost to some Neoph--” I didn’t bother letting the Galactic finish his sentence before grabbing his face.

“You didn’t just lose the battle. You lost your life.” I said darkly. Since I couldn’t use my draconic abilities to kill this guy, I simply pinched his nose with my thumb and pointer finger while keeping my palm over him mouth.

“Grab his arms Axel.” I instructed to keep him from fighting back. The Galactic made muffled pleas for mercy, but they only served to waste what little oxygen he had. Eventually his eyes began to droop and his struggling ceased. I checked his pulse to make sure he was truly dead. I could still feel faint blood flow under my fingers meaning he had only passed out.

“Time to do this the old fashion way.” I said uncaringly. Axel and I laid the criminal on the ground where I placed my foot over his neck and pressed down until blood ran from his mouth from his smashed trachea. Now he was truly dead.

You don’t seem as satisfied with this as you usually are.” pointed out my monkey noticing my melancholy.

“Our fight isn’t with Team Galactic. Our enemy is Team Rocket. The Galactics were just brought into it. And I know they’re criminals who deserve to be brought to justice like the Rockets, but still. This guy wasn’t malicious at all.” I reflected. “Heh. Maybe I’m just getting soft.”

I looked around the battlefield noticing that the rest of my unit was finishing up their fights as well and performing the proper executions of their enemies. I only saw three members actually using weapons. Raiden was obvious as I will never forget that spear he uses. Unlike when he threatened me with it, this time I saw sparks of electricity surging through it.

Since most everyone looks the same in their uniforms with a few customizations here and there, I can only assume the other weapon users were Feng and Skylar. The one who looked most masculine was carrying a large scythe with a flame pattern on its black shaft. The top of the shaft had what looked like a clawed hand on it with the pristine silver blade coming off from one of the fingers like a bat wing. The way the top looked was like a mutilated hand reaching out of the pit of Hell. The blood of his latest victim still on the blade only added to the look.

The more feminine figure carried two arm length wave swords that looked like the tusks of a Mamoswine. The blades were clean and white like fresh fallen snow. At least they used to be as they were now also stained with blood. I almost felt jealous that I didn’t have a weapon too. I’ll have to ask Raiden for a sword when I get off probation.

“I can’t believe you still haven’t evolved your Electabuzz yet! What the hell are you waiting for Arka?” chastised the man with the scythe confirming that it was Feng.

“I simply have not found an Electirizor yet. Besides, I am in no rush to evolve my Pokémon.” responded Raiden indifferently.

“Weakling! I evolved my Magmar first chance I got so it would be stronger.” Feng shot back.

“Now, now Kenny. Evolutionary stage isn’t everything.” said the woman with the wave swords confirming that she was Skylar. “After all, you’re still using a Metang.” she teased.

“That’s a different matter entirely.” he growled.

“Hey! Could someone please help us?” requested a woman running out of the Net Center. She had long red hair tied into braided twin-tails and wore glasses, a long black dress, a black bandana, and a green apron.

“We defeated Team Triad. What else is wrong?” Raiden questioned.

“While you were battling, Bill and Celio were kidnapped!” she said fearfully.

“*Grr* You said they had all left the building!” snarled Feng staring angrily at A-Squad.

“All of our enemies were out! There must have been some not in uniform like us!” one of them defended.

“Then we don’t have any time to lose!” Skylar said urgently. She then turned to the woman from the Net Center. “First, what is your name? We can’t have you leading us into a trap now.”

“Right. I’m Lanette Asher. I’m one of the collaborators for the Storage System. My sister Brigette is taking care of the other hostages now so please hurry!” begged Lanette.

“How many were there, how long ago did they leave, and in what direction?” asked Raiden already sending out Magnezone for aerial transport.

“Only two. They left only a few minutes ago, but I don’t know where because they used a Xatu to Teleport away!” she explained frantically. Well shit. That sucks. How are we supposed to find them now!?

“This could be a problem.” said Skylar. “If the Bill and Celio Lanette is referring to are Bill Sonezaki, the mastermind who invented the Storage System, and Celio Bush, the guy who networked the System between regions, then we’re in trouble.”

“Then what are we waiting for? Let’s get this hunt underway!” declared one of our members.

“Don’t you realize how involved Teleportation is?” criticized Feng. “If they had escaped on a Flying Pokémon then they wouldn’t have gotten far and we could head them off on one of the other islands. By Teleporting they could have easily warped as far away as Hoenn!” he yelled.

“U-umm… M-Miss Lanette? D-do either Bill o-or C-celio have their cellphones with them?” inquired Chane.

“Stupid girl! You think we can just call them and ask where they are?” ridiculed the First Seat.

“Quiet Feng! What’s your plan Chane?” Raiden asked.

“I-if we have a hacker in our group a-and one of them has th-their cellphone we c-can track them th-that way.” she suggested.

“I’m a hacker.” volunteered the quiet guy from B-Squad.

“I think they still have their phones.” Lanette said with uncertainty.

“Then what the hell are you waiting for? Hurry up!” ordered Feng. With that we went into the Net Center to use their computers. While the Storage people and our hacker got to work on tracing Bill and Celio, Axel and I made our way over to Chane.

“Chane! You’re a genius!” I congratulated.

“Huh? No no. It’s nothing.” she said modestly.

“On the contrary, you may have just saved this mission. How did you know that anyway? The cell phone thingy.”

“U-um.. well.. uh…” stammered Chane.

“Got ‘em!” yelled the hacker. “They’re on Kin Island. It looks like they’re in the Berry Forest.” he reported.

“Why there?” questioned someone. I think it was Ponyta-Race-Guy.

“Maybe they Teleported to the wrong location and got lost. With those idiots it wouldn’t surprise me.” Eve said.

“Regardless, we know where they are now. Let’s go Team!” Skylar commanded. We all made our way back outside and sent out our flyers.

“Mind if we steal a ride Brian?” requested Zack coming up with Lloyd.

“But of course. You always do.” I allowed. Aerodactyl was less than thrilled about the extra weight as usual, voicing his complaints in an irritable hiss. In moments our unit took to the sky with several people sharing mounts like Zack and I were.

“I’m surprised you didn’t ask one of the ladies if you could ride them.” I said sarcastically.

“Well you know. There were just too many to choose from and since we were so short on time I didn’t want to be a bother.” he replied. Aerodactyl screeched something at him.

He said you’re still a bother to him.” Axel translated which I then translated for Zack.

“Well my apologies to you Noble Steed. But I wouldn’t ask if you weren’t such a robust and sturdy Pokémon that I knew could handle my burden.” he complemented trying to appeal to the Fossil Pokémon’s pride. All of us got his response in the form of a midair corkscrew and upside down loop. We each had to tighten our grips to stay on him.

Bastard!” spat my monkey.
--------

When we finally reached Kin Island the sky in front of us was turning a dark shade of purple as the sun set behind us. Feng, Skylar, and Raiden pulled in front of our pack riding a metallic silver bird with red feathers inside its wings, a blue bird with cloud like wings, and Magnezone respectively.

“Fan out when we enter Berry Forest so that we cover more area. There are only two of them so there is no need for all of us to confront them at once. You all will travel in pairs while we Seateds go separately. Now land!” ordered Feng before his Skarmory dropped out of the sky.

“Good luck everyone!” Skylar encouraged as her Alteria dipped down as well.

“If you find them contact everyone else so that we do not waste time looking for what is no longer there.” Raiden told us before dropping as well.

“Looks like it’s you and me.” I told Zack.

“Sounds good!” he agreed. Everyone swooped down to the ground and ran into the forest after calling their Pokémon back.

Berry Forest was a lot bigger on the inside than it had looked from the air. It was spring and as to be expected the trees were a lush green and full of life. The air around the forest was rich with the delicious smell of berries. The sunset gave the forest a calm and relaxing glow. But now wasn’t the time to take in the scenery. We had Rockets to hunt!

I’ll search from the trees. I can see further from higher up.” offered Axel.

“Go for it. Just don’t get distracted eating berries.” I told my partner knowing him too well to think he wasn’t going to stuff his face. The monkey gave me an indignant grunt knowing that I hadn’t fallen for his scheme. He jumped into the trees and started swinging from branch to branch grabbing the occasional berry along the way.

“Hey Brian. We’re travelling in pairs right?” Zack said. It wasn’t like him to state the obvious so I waited for him to continue. “And we have two enemies who have two hostages right? A group of four.”

“You want me to send out Riolu and see if he can’t pinpoint a cluster of four auras, is that it?” I surmised.

“Bingo.” he verified. I sent out the Emanation Pokémon and filled him in on the plan. Riolu closed his eyes sensing every movement in the forest. The only sound that we could hear was the gentle rustling of the leaves in the breeze and the more intense rustle of Axel moving about in the treetops. At once the puppy’s eyes shot open and with a bark he motioned for us to follow him.

“I’m starting to get a little jealous. Both you and Chane have had genius ideas today.” I said as we ran after Riolu.

“It’s no big deal. You have your moments too sometimes.” Zack said unconcerned. It wasn't long before Riolu came to a stop with a nervous look on his face.

“Rio?” I asked. The young Pokémon looked up to me and started barking. Axel jumped down from a tree with his arms full of berries.

He says he senses a terrible aura up ahead. A fifth human has joined the others along with three Pokémon. He says one of the Pokémon is frighteningly strong.” Axel translated. I clenched my fists in anticipation. Three Pokémon could only mean a battle and if there is one new human it must be one of the Seateds. Riolu knows Raiden so the new one must be either Feng or Skylar.

“Let’s go Zack.” I said moving forward again. “I think something interesting is going on behind these bushes.” I took another step only for Riolu to grab my ankle. I looked down at the Emanation Pokémon who looked absolutely terrified.

“I don’t think you want to go any further.” said Zack noticing my Pokémon’s panic.

“Then I’ll look from above. Come on Axel!” I said climbing up the nearest tree.

Right behind ya!” said the Flame Pokémon coming up under me. Luckily the trees in this part of the forest were densely packed because I had to cross two more with the help of Axel before I saw anything.

Standing in a clearing was a lone female Neos with a tall transparent purple specter wearing a witch hat. It had to have been Skylar and her Mismagius. Standing across from her were the two criminals standing with a lean green feathered bird Pokémon with large white wings and a bipedal dog with short white fur, a tuft of fur on its head shaped like a beret, and a long tail with a blue tip. Behind those the criminals that I’m still assuming are Rockets were two men on their knees and tied up. By the looks of things the battle had already started.

“Bring that ghost to its knees with Psychic Xatu!” called one of the Rockets.

“Smeargle! Bite it with Crunch!” ordered the other. Smeargle took its tail and wiped its mouth with the tip giving it a blue grin. When the Painter Pokémon opened its mouth globs of paint dripped from the upper lip and rose from the lower lip giving it a mouth full of large teeth. The canine then ran over and chomped down on Mismagius’s flowing body causing it to shriek an otherworldly cry. At the same time of this physical assault, the Magical Pokémon was being attacked mentally by a pink glow from Xatu.

“Mismagius! I’d like to settle this before nightfall. Use Psybeam on Smeargle and hit Xatu with Shadow Ball!” commanded Skylar. The Ghost-type turned its head down to Smeargle who was still gnawing on it and blasted the canine with a rainbow colored beam of energy. The Painter Pokémon yelped as it was flung into a tree before falling to the ground unconscious.

The Magical Pokémon then gathered the shadows cast by the setting sun on the forest into a huge sphere, the size of which I’ve never seen before. Usually the Shadow Balls I see are about basketball sized, but this one had to be at least twice that! Mismagius launched its massive attack at Xatu KOing the Mystic Pokémon with one blow. I sat in that tree completely awed by what I had just witnessed.

“No way! How did she beat us so easily!?” cried one of the Rockets in disbelief.

“Fine! We’ll return the hostages.” the other one submit bitterly.

“I’m afraid it’s too late for that.” Skylar said pulling out two Item Balls which burst open revealing her wave swords. She ran at her foes and with two swift strokes from both blades the Rockets fell dead. “Skylar used Ice Fang! It’s Super-effective!” she cheered.

“Looks like we still have a ways to go.” I whispered to Axel.

To be that badass? Definitely.” he responded. As I watched Skylar untie Bill and Celio, I thought about all we had accomplished today. From my reflection only one thing was undeniably certain: Team Neos was not only back in the game, but we would win it!
 
Good to see a post from you! With the unification of the other teams, I'm looking forward to seeing the events as they lead up to the old prologue (the one you posted and then deleted with the server splat). This chapter was light (for your standards)but I know things are about to get real.
 
I'm certainly pleased with the manner in which you portrayed Smeargle's moveset abilities. I guess 'Sketch' was taken a bit literally.

Also, ponies! Oatmeal!
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Hiyo! This is chapter is pretty special in that it not only debuts Unova Pokemon but it also features cameos of two Charmian regulars as well! :o

Enjoy!

Chapter 38: Challenge of Water and Ice

Our hunt for Team Triad had led us to Floe Island. We had been relentless in our pursuit of them trying to find their hideout so that we could purge the Sevii Islands of their presence. And here in the town of Four Island we found a gang of them harassing the local Pokémon Day Care trying to steal the Pokémon being kept there. It reminded me of my first mission with my squad only this time there were more of us and we were more refined.

“Piloswine! Take Down!” I commanded. My mammoth boar rammed into the enemy Rocket’s Noctowl. The bird gave a weak hoot as it collapsed to the ground defeated.

“Damn you! That was my last one you bastard!” yelled the Rocket.

“Too bad. Fury Attack him Piloswine.” I said uncaringly.

“Me!?” he cried in disbelief. He was answered by the Swine Pokémon grunting then charging at him. The Rocket screamed in pain as he was repeatedly gored by Piloswine shaking his head side to side jabbing him with his tusks.

“Good job!” I congratulated when my Pokémon backed away leaving the bleeding carcass to fall to the ground. Now I just had one more opponent to take out. “Chane! You ready for me?” I called behind me.

“Y-yes… This one won’t say anything.” she replied mournfully.

“Heh! I won’t squeal! Not to you or that guy!” bragged the Rocket.

“Oh I wasn’t going to interrogate you.” I said evilly. “Piloswine! Use Ice Shard on that Rocket!” I commanded. Piloswine blew a breath of cold air that froze the moisture in the air into jagged blades of ice. The force of the wooly pig’s breath sent the Ice Shards flying into the Rocket’s body; neck, chest, arms, and legs since they were softest. Any that hit the head simply shattered on the skull.

“I miss the days when we could only leave them unconscious for the police to handle. Killing them is so… so cruel and unnecessary.” Chane lamented.

“It couldn’t be helped. They did this to themselves.” I reassured. Looking around it seemed like everyone else was finishing off their respective opponents. All the Aqua, Galactic, and Rocket bodies were being gathered into a pile for disposal. Just like our previous missions, a helicopter will come as soon as we call in that we’re done and carry them away. Unfortunately for now the elderly couple living at the Day Care will have a nasty graveyard in their front yard.

“You scoundrels!” yelled the voice of an old woman. Standing in the doorway of the house was the Day Care couple. Behind their legs were some of the Pokémon staying with them.

“Look what you’ve done! You’re worse than those crooks!” chastised the old man.

“Really? How about some gratitude you old fart!” shouted a Neos.

“That’s right! We just saved your sorry asses from these guys. You and all of your Pokémon should be thanking us!” said another.

“Thank you? You’re murders! Those gangsters were violent, but Team Neos is downright evil! There was no reason to kill them!” the old lady reprimanded. An Eevee with silver fur came out from behind the couple’s legs and yipped at us. “You tell them Lyni!”

I stood their taking the insults because I didn’t care how other people viewed us. I did what I had to be done. If I had to do evil to destroy evil, I would and I would have no regrets. Others however didn’t seem to share my sentiments. Chane had her head down in shame while some others looked like they were ready to fight the couple next.

“If you disapprove of us so much then why not take us on!” Feng challenged. I was wondering when he’d throw in his two cents. “Just be ready for us to kick that Shiny Eevee around like a football!”

“Enough! We accomplished what we came here to do. Let us leave it at that.” Raiden said stepping in.

“He’s right. Let’s just call it in.” Skylar said. “Oh, and it would be a really bad idea to call the police about those corpses. We’ll have a cleanup crew take care of it but they won’t come if there are cops around.” she told the elders. Each of us then threw down smoke bombs to cover our escape.
----------------------

I stared at a full map of the Sevii Islands that hung on the wall of the local Pokémon Center while I waited for my Pokémon to heal. This was our third strike on Team Triad since we arrived and yet we were still no closer to finding their base. We did a full sweep of Boon Island since that was the smallest of the seven and found nothing. All that remained on Floe Island that we hadn’t investigated was the Icefall Cave. I didn’t think anything would be there, but considering Team Magma’s base was in a freaking volcano, anything is possible. Triad could have set up there because of how unlikely it was.

“Sir. You’re Pokémon are ready.” the nurse said calling me over.

“Thanks.” I replied. “Have a nice nap?” I asked Axel.

Fucking Hypnosis.” he muttered grumpily.

“Well I have an idea that will really wake you up, but I have to ask Master Raiden about it first.” I told him.

And what idea is that?” the monkey asked with interest. I motioned him outside so that people in the Pokémon Center wouldn’t hear me.

“Call me crazy…”

Crazy.

“…but I was thinking that we go in Icefall Cave.” I finished.

Forget crazy, dumbass is more like it.” Axel corrected. “Have you forgotten that you can’t stand the cold? And yet here you are willing going into a frozen cave where there isn’t even sunlight to keep warm. Dumbass dumbass dumbassdumbassdumba--” I punched Axel upside the head to shut him up.

“I’m aware of that.” I said annoyed. “The fact that cold and ice are my weaknesses means I just have to correct that right? We’ll go in for training and if we find Team Triad we kill them. That’s all there is to it. Besides, I’ll have you for warmth.” I explained.

As if I’d let you snuggle me and take my body heat.” replied the monkey sarcastically. “Alright fine. It’ll be good training for me too since I know you plan on sparring.

“Indeed.” I affirmed. I walked back inside and told Raiden of my plan.

“Interesting proposition. Very well, but Zack goes with you.” he agreed.

“What? Why? I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Besides, I don’t think anyone with any trace of sanity would want to join me in a freezing hole in the side of a mountain.” I defended.

“There are two reasons why you need a chaperone. The first is in case there really is Team Triad activity you two can work together. The second reason is because your probation prohibits you from wandering around on your own.” Raiden informed.

“That didn’t stop me when we were in headquarters.” I pointed out.

“You were never alone. You were in our base surrounded by our people. There you only needed to check in with me. Here the situation is a bit different. Take my offer or do not go.” Raiden negotiated sternly.

“As you wish Master.” I reluctantly agreed.
---------------

“Sorry about this Zack. I’m sure you had other things to do then babysit me.” I apologized as we trekked to the north side of the island.

“Don’t worry about it. If you think about it, I’m the only option you had really. Raiden has his obligations, you and Eve don’t get along at all since she turned you into a popsicle, and I’m sure you and Chane would be too busy trying to keep each other warm if you know what I mean.” Zack said the last part with a naughty tone.

“Actually, I’m not sure what you mean. Explain.” I told him. I knew exactly what he was implying, I just didn’t understand why.

“Never mind.” he said deciding to drop it. As I thought. He was just trying to imprint his dirty mind on mine. “Anyway, I have something to gain from this too.”

“Do you now?” I asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Yup! Skylar wants a strong Trainer so by going in Icefall Cave I’m proving how tough I am!” boasted Zack going so far as to puff out his chest. I shook my head with a smile. He was hopeless but still so amusing. I actually hoped he would succeed this time.

To get to the cave, we had to Surf across a shallow lake on Lloyd and Snorlax. The moment we walked inside every hair on my body stood on end. Goosebumps ran up and down my exposed arms, neck, and face. I sighed from the rush of cold air and was able to see my breath. And this is still the entrance!

“Well then, shall we go deeper gentlemen?” I invited.

Yeah sure.” said a not-so-thrilled Axel.

“After you.” offered Zack politely. The deeper we went in the more uncomfortable it got. My fingernails were already turning blue for crying out loud! Since it was only me, Zack, and our Pokémon, I activated my Dragon-Forme for the first time since I returned from the Battle Frontier.

“Ah what the hell was I thinking?!” I yelled now feeling more uncomfortable than ever. I grabbed my head and started flailing around trying to elevate my body temperature.

You were thinking about this!” Axel yelled punching me in the chest. I stumbled back holding my ribs. “That was for hitting me earlier! And this is for willingly making both of us cold!” The Flame Pokémon swung a kick at me. I was able to recover in time to catch his leg. With a quick pull I was able to knock the monkey off balance causing him to fall on his back.

“Are you still mad about that Noctowl earlier?” I asked him knowingly.

Yup! And I’m taking it out on you because you’re my favorite punching bag!” he admit jumping up and trying another kick which I blocked.

“Remember, this punching bag punches back!” I reminded throwing a right hook of my own which he caught in the palm of his left hand.

I wouldn’t have it any other way you Dragon-typed freak!” he said with a smile. The monkey then pulled me in and kneed me in the stomach. While I was keeled over I felt Axel’s elbow slam into my back making me fall to the icy ground. Contact with the frozen earth actually hurt worse than any blow Axel could dish out. I pushed up and spun my body to kick at the monkey’s legs.

Too slow!” taunted Axel jumping over my leg. He then swung his tail between his legs smacking me in the face.

“Why you!” I yelled grabbing his tail and throwing the Infernape down.

“That kind of hurt you know!” The Flame Pokémon did an uppercut which I avoided by leaning back. The two of us continued trading blows, dodging or blocking as many as we could.

“You’re right Lloyd. As much fun as it is to watch them, it’s too cold in here to just be sitting around.” I heard Zack say.

“Say huh?” I asked turning my head to them.

Distraction!” called Axel hitting me in the nose.

“OW!! You simian bastard!” I screamed stumbling back holding my nose. I moved my hand and felt something wet leak from my nostrils. If that damn monkey gave me a nosebleed, he’s getting a major ass kicking! I wiped my nose with my arm only to find the substance was stickier and slimier than blood. “Ew! Snot! Damn cold making my nose run!” I grumbled.

“Hey Brian. Me and Lloyd don’t really spar like you and Axel do, so why don’t you and I have a battle? Ya know, so we aren’t just standing here freezing our balls off.” Zack suggested. That actually sounded like a pretty fun idea.

“Alright, you’re on! One-on-one, Axel vs. Lloyd, no restrictions!” I declared. Lloyd made some taunting sounding quacks.

No way! You’re the one who’s going down Ducky!” retorted Axel.

“Let’s get started then! Lloyd! Reduce Axel’s fire power with Water Sport!” called Zack. The Golduck bathed himself with a light spray of water and continued to soak the field around himself for maximum effect. How that didn't give him hypothermia on the spot boggles my mind.

“You think I would have used fire on a Water-type? Ha! Axel! Attack with Mach Punch!” I called. The Flame Pokémon tightened his fist and then ran at Lloyd with incredible speed.

“Slide left!” Zack commanded. Lloyd jumped to his left and effortlessly slid out of Axel’s way. As for my Infernape, when he got to where his opponent was, he slipped and skidded forward on his belly.

“Wha?” I looked around in shock trying to figure out what happened when I noticed a ring of ice around where the Duck Pokémon was standing. So that’s what he did! The Water Sport froze as soon as it touched the ground allowing Lloyd to escape and cause his attacker to stumble. Brilliant move!

“Not bad Zack. Not bad at all.” I complemented. “I should have seen this coming from you, but whatever. Now that I know what you’re up too, I think I will use some Fire-type moves! Flame Wheel!”

“Just because you know what I’m doing doesn’t mean you can stop it! Water Pulse Lloyd!” countered Zack. While Axel spun at Lloyd in a fiery ball, the Golduck responded by blasting shockwaves of water at the monkey. Even with the damage he took, Axel still managed to land his hit, though it was weaker than what it could have been. I cracked my knuckles. Things were getting exciting now!

“Axel--”

“Hold on!” Zack cut off. He seemed to be concentrating on something else coming from behind him.

“What?” I questioned.

“Listen.” he said putting his finger to his lips. I walked over to Zack trying to pick out any unusual sounds. Amidst the echoes of the cave’s Wild Pokémon going about their business, I heard speaking.

“Really? Then where is it?” demanded a female voice.

“I told you, rare Pokémon. We just have to keep looking around the water that’s all.” a male voice replied.

“Should have brought scuba equipment with us in case it’s hiding underwater.” the female said snarkily.

“Nah, we have our Pokémon for that. I’ve got that really powerful one I lifted off of some sap not too long ago. It finally started listening to me too.” boasted the male. I snarled at hearing that this person stole a Pokémon from someone. Rocket or not, they’re dead now.

“Let’s go Zack.” I said waving him to follow me.

“Hold on. Let me lead this one. If you follow my queues we can use the terrain to our advantage.” he proposed.

“Works for me. Now let’s kick ass!” I shouted.

“Did you hear that?” the unknown male asked.

“We’re not alone in here!” the female figured out.

“Woops.” I said uncaringly with a big grin. Too late to ambush them. Running into our section of the cave were two people dressed in Team Aqua uniforms. The outfits were modified with long black sleeves coming from under their pirate shirts. Obviously they prepared for the cold more than Zack and I did.

“Who are you two?” demanded the female Aqua. She had black hair coming out from under her bandana down just above her shoulders and brown eyes.

“I’m a man looking for a lady to share my bed with. Will you be my lover?” Zack asked flirtatiously.

“Sorry but I’m taken by this ruggedly handsome man.” she said referring to her partner. He had a broad face, blue eyes, and no visible hair under his bandana. His eyebrows suggested he had brown hair.

“That’s too bad.” said Zack feigning disappointment. The man looked over at me and seemed to go from a serious face to an angry face.

“These two are with Team Neos! I’ve heard the Rockets talking about a brutal Trainer with a golden Infernape!” he figured out.

“Oh dear. Looks like the Meowth is out of the bag.” I said sarcastically. Still it might start getting dangerous if my enemies can identify me without my uniform.

“Dammit! These Neos are everywhere! Sean! We should kill these two here and now!” the female proposed grabbing out a Net Ball.

“You got it Abby! Especially if that one with the Infernape is as dangerous as the rumors say.” agreed Sean taking out his own Net Ball. “Sharkopath! Lunch time!” he said throwing the ball.

“Save some for Carcharias!” Abby said throwing her ball too. The Net Balls burst open revealing two almost identical torpedo shaped Pokémon which were dark blue on top and white on their bellies. They had glowing red eyes, two gill slits, a yellow ‘X’ on the top of their heads and on their rears, and long dorsal, pelvic, and pectoral fins. Their mouths were filled with long sharp teeth that were made for tearing flesh. Differentiating the two Sharpedos were the number of notches in their dorsal fins. Sean’s had three notches while Abby’s had two. Likewise, Sean’s had two claspers behind his pelvic fin indicating he was male. Since Abby’s lacked claspers, hers was female.

“Alright Axel, you think you can take these guys?” I asked already knowing the answer.

Bring ‘em on!” the Infernape dared.

“Lloyd! Help out Axel! Remember Brian, follow my lead.” Zack advised.

“You got it!” I agreed. “Axel! Mach Punch anyone of your choosing!” I allowed.

“Intercept the Infernape with Aqua Jet Sharkopath!” Sean commanded. The Brutal Pokémon surrounded his body with water and shot at Axel like a torpedo while the monkey ran at it with his fist pulled back. Both Pokémon collided with each other doing serious damage to one another.

“Carcharias! Attack the Infernape while it’s vulnerable with Brine!” ordered Abby.

“Not so fast! You forget about me Beautiful?” Zack called jumping in. “Lloyd! Aqua Jet Carcharias!” The Golduck slammed into the other Sharpedo at high speed causing her to spew her salt water attack on Sharkopath instead of Axel.

“You ginger bastard! How dare you make me hit Sean’s Pokémon!” she yelled at him.

“Now that’s just plain rude.” defended Zack. “I don’t have freckles.”

“Don’t worry about it Abby. Sharkopath barely felt that. Now I say we go after the Golduck first! The Infernape will be easy once it’s alone!” Sean foolishly believed.

“You’re right! Carcharias! Eat that duck with Crunch!” commanded Abby.

“Lower its guard with Screech Sharkopath!” added Sean. His Sharpedo gave a terrible high pitched roar while the other made her way to Lloyd with her jaws wide open.

“You should never turn your back on an enemy!” I chastised. “Use Brick Break on Carcharias Axel!” The Flame Pokémon ran after the attacking Sharpedo, jumped in the air, and used his momentum to kick her in the gills with both feet.

“Nice save man!” Zack thanked.

“Don’t worry about it. Got a strategy yet?” I inquired. He smirked letting me know things were about to get good.

“I wouldn’t get too happy! You’re unguarded now!” Sean said to me. “Abby, take care of the Pokémon!”

“Right! Wash them away with Surf Carcharias!” she ordered. The Brutal Pokémon jumped into a nearby pool of water. She then rose out bringing a large tidal wave with her.

“Now rip him apart Sharkopath!” The other shark swam through the air at me with his mouth wide open ready to devour me. Axel and Lloyd had their own problem to deal with so I was on my own. I concentrated on gathering my draconic energy into my palm.

“Brian! Track right! Lloyd! Ice Beam!” Zack called breaking my concentration. I did as told only to find myself now sliding uncontrollably on a patch of ice. Instead of using Dragon Pulse like I intended, I instead converted the attack into Dragon Claw which I used to slow myself down. I whimpered as my fingers were now painfully numb.

On the other side of the battle, Carcharias was stuck at the top of a wall of ice thanks to Lloyd freezing the water. Like the silly Fire-type that he is, Axel was crouched with his hands over his head bracing for the Surf’s impact. When he realized what had happened, the monkey got up and acted bravely like he knew things would be ok from the start.

“Damn you! Carcharias! Use Focus Energy and break free with Slash! Then use Night Slash on the Golduck!” Abby commanded.

“Go after the Infernape with Skull Bash!” Sean added.

“Lloyd! Blast a Water Gun trail 20° to your right!” Zack commanded.

“Get ready to engage with Close Combat!” I called with my hands in my armpits for warmth. While Carcharias gathered her energy and then shredded her former Surf, Sharkopath charged at Axel with his head lowered. Meanwhile, Lloyd spewed at stream of water that extended all the way to my feet. The momentum of the Water Gun caused the Duck Pokémon to slide back. Unfortunately for Lloyd, he attacked too soon allowing Carcharias time to go after him. With her pectoral fins covered in darkness, the Bully of the Sea viciously slashed at him. Axel couldn’t even lend assistance as he was too busy engaging the other Sharpedo with Close Combat.

“Brian! Step forward!” Zack told me. I stepped on the now frozen water trail and found myself once again slipping and sliding.

“Zack, I hate you!” I yelled at him. This was not fun at all! Brilliant strategy, but still excruciatingly difficult for me. Axel grabbed Sharkopath by the pectorals and threw him aside. He then skidded over to intercept me.

Gotcha!” he said grabbing my arm. Unfortunately, we kept sliding until hitting a rock that was in front of me and behind Axel causing us to fall on top of each other. “What happens in Icefall Cave stays in Icefall Cave.” he said pushing me off.

“Agreed.” I said. Up close I noticed a lot of small scratches and cuts on Axel’s body from the Sharpedos’ Rough Skin.

Heads up!” he warned throwing me out of the way to catch Sharkopath’s jaws which were wide open. His teeth were covered in ice meaning the Bully of the Sea was trying to Ice Fang us from behind.

“Take this! Water Pulse!” Sean commanded.

Oh fuck y--” Axel started before getting a face full of water.

“Lloyd! Ditch Carcharias with Strength!” commanded Zack. The Golduck grabbed his opponent, lifted her over his head, and flung her into Sharkopath.

“Thanks!” I called giving Zack a thumbs up.

“Sean! Let’s get them from underwater water!” Abby suggested.

“Great idea! Sharkopath! Dive!” he ordered.

“You too Carcharias!” followed Abby. Both sharks returned to the water preparing to attack at any moment from any direction.

“Zack.” I instigated shooting him a sideways glance.

“On it! Surf’s up Lloyd!” he acknowledged. The Golduck dove into the water after the sharks and summoned a huge tidal wave carrying gallons of water and two Brutal Pokémon with it. Lloyd slammed the water to the ground knocking the two sharks out cold.

“What the hell? No way!” yelled Abby in denial.

“I should have expected as much out of Team Neos. None the less, you will be beaten!” promised Sean.

“You shouldn’t make promises you can’t keep!” I taunted.

“Oh yeah? Crush him Sebastian!” the Aqua called throwing a Lure Ball. A large red crab with a white belly appeared. It had huge spikes growing from its back, large teeth-like protrusions coming from its lower jaw, and a giant left claw compared to its right. The Kingler slammed its left claw on the ground creating a small crater to show off its power.

“Show those weaklings the power of Team Aqua Lobo!” Abby called sending out a canine with thick shaggy black fur. The Mightyena growled at our Pokémon giving them a fierce glare. Both Axel and Lloyd fell for the Intimidation tactic. Even if they know it’s coming, it seems like getting Intimidated by formidable looking Pokémon is ingrained in a Pokémon’s instinct.

“Oh I’ve seen the power of Team Aqua and I have to say, I’m not impressed.” I mocked. “Axel! Show them their power is nothing compared to ours! Use Double Kick on the Mightyena!” I commanded.

I don’t feel so good…” replied the Flame Pokémon in a daze. Dammit! That last Water Pulse must have confused him!

“The Infernape is defenseless! Get it with Bubblebeam Sebastian!” commanded Sean. The Kingler opened his mouth and shot off a stream of bubbles at Axel.

“Lloyd! Get in front of Axel and use Protect!” countered Zack.

“Lobo! Intercept Golduck with Thunder Fang!” Abby called.

“Get down and slide!” Zack shouted. Lloyd ran as fast as he could before dropping on the ice and letting the momentum carry him to Axel. I saw the jewel on his forehead glow blue indicating he had to use his psychic powers to stop exactly where he wanted. The Golduck threw his hands out creating a fluid bubble around himself and Axel which absorbed the bubbles from Sebastian. Lobo chomped at the barrier with its fangs coated in electricity. Because the bubble was made of water, it conducted all of the electricity and diverted it away from our Pokémon.

“Good work guys!” I complemented.

“It’s not over yet! Push Axel to me!” Zack requested getting a vial out of his pocket.

“Stop them! Crush them all with Crab Hammer Sebastian!” ordered Sean.

“You take care of Axel Lloyd!” I instructed moving to intercept the Pincer Pokémon. I held up both hands trying to catch his left claw as he swung it down on me. The Kingler proved tougher than I thought as the impact forced me to my knees. Even using every ounce of strength my Dragon-Forme offered, the giant crab was putting up an incredible fight. I was pretty much stuck in place until either Lloyd or Axel did something to distract or knock away Sebastian.

“I’ve got you this time! Jab him with Metal Claw Sebastian!” the Aqua commanded. Or he could go on the offensive and cause me serious harm. Joy. The Kingler’s smaller right claw turned metallic silver as he drew back his arm to stab me in my stomach.

“Lloyd! Disable that attack now!” called Zack desperately.

“Not so fast! Taunt the Golduck Lobo!” Abby countered. Before Lobo could act, it was blasted by a stream of flame.

How about no.” Axel said still in a bit of a drunken state. Lloyd sent a blue psychic wiry string from his jewel which tied itself around Sebastian’s claw turning it back to its normal red and stopping it just millimeters from my body. The Pincer Pokémon was dismayed long enough for me to get out from under his claw and move to safety.

“Took your good ol’ time there.” I teased. Getting back to my feet was hard because my feet kept slipping on the ice.

“Yeah, well these guys aren’t exactly making it easy for us.” Zack pointed out. He was now getting Axel to drink the Full Restore he pulled out. The Infernape’s wounds slowly disappeared thanks to the rapid healing properties of the medicine.

“Better?” I asked my partner.

Oh yeah! Let’s kick their asses back to Hoenn!” replied Axel punching his fists together.

“*Grrr* Sean! We have to beat these guys!” growled Abby in frustration.

“I agree! Slam the Infernape Sebastian!” Sean commanded.

“And you Bite the Golduck Lobo!”

“Get ready you two!” Zack prompted skating out of range of the incoming attacks. Sebastian turned with his left side facing our Pokémon, leaned to his right, and then lunged at Axel. Lobo did a similar maneuver by crouching and jumping forward at Lloyd. My guess is so that they wouldn’t slip on the ice.

“Now! Push off each other!” Zack commanded. Axel and Lloyd put their hands together and then pushed causing both Pokémon to slide on the ice to dodge their respective foes.

“Now attack Sebastian with Close Combat!” I called. Axel assaulted the giant crab with a series of punches, kicks, and the occasional tail smack.

“Smack that monkey away with Superpower!” Sean commanded. The Kingler slammed Axel with his claw with incredible strength sending him flying through the air. The Infernape attempted to catch himself as he landed, but the slick ground caused him to skid and fall flat on his face.

“Now attack with Stomp!” Sebastian scooted over to Axel, lifted one of his legs, and Stomped it down on top of the Flame Pokémon.

No you don’t!” Axel rejected rolling away from the attack. Despite the fact that Superpower takes up so much energy it’s supposed to weaken the user, the giant crab was still leaving cracks in the ice and shaking the ground with every attack.

“Keep that damn Fire-type on the run! Crab Hammer!” Sean continued with delight. Sebastian slammed his giant claw down which Axel also dodged by rolling away. That also shattered the ice.

“Use Hydro Pump Lloyd!” Zack commanded at the same time my battle was going on.

“Sucker Punch that fool Lobo!” ordered Abby. Just before the Duck Pokémon could attack, Lobo smacked him in the face with its paw causing him to spew his attack off to the side.

“Now that wasn’t very nice.” Zack said casually.

“Not very nice? Do you have any idea how much trouble Team Neos has caused Team Aqua? How many of our members you people have killed? Not killing you and that partner of yours would be the nice thing to do!” Abby yelled furiously.

“So dinner and a movie is out of the question?” asked Zack pretending to miss the point.

“You are so dead! Tear this four eyed idiot to shreds with Crunch!” commanded his opponent. The Mightyena barked and ran at Zack with its jaws wide open.

“Lloyd! Water Pulse!” he called in defense. The Golduck blasted rings of water from his beak which hit the Bite Pokémon in its flank diverting it from Zack.

“For the record, I only have two eyes. These just improve my vision because I’m far sighted.” Zack said tapping the rims of his glasses.

“Lobo! Attack with Take Down!” commanded Abby deciding to ignore Zack’s taunts.

“To the left!” Zack countered. Lloyd turned his head right and shot a Water Gun which allowed him to slide left and dodge Lobo. “Now Aqua Tail!” the Golduck secreted water from the pores on his tail smacked Lobo.

“Vice Grip with both claws!” Sean ordered getting annoyed with Axel’s last two rolling dodges. Sebastian attacked with both claws and caught my Infernape in his smaller one. “Alright! Now finish it wi--”

“Sean! Behind you!” Abby called. Before my opponent could react, Sebastian was hit in the back by Lobo.

“Guess that Aqua Tail was a Critical, huh?” mused Zack.

“Now’s your chance Axel! Double Kick!” I called. The monkey gabbed the claw that was holding him for stability and then kicked the Kingler in the face twice causing his grip to weaken.

Finally!” Axel cheered as he broke away and successfully landed on his feet this time.

“Abby, let’s work together again!” Sean suggested.

“Agreed! This clown is a pain in the ass to deal with, even by himself!” said Abby crossing her arms.

“Leaving me so soon?” Zack asked pretending to be hurt.

“Fine by me! Axel! Flare Blitz Lobo!” I called. The Infernape got down on all fours as the flame on his head ignited surrounding his entire body. He then launched himself at the canine causing it to yelp on impact. Axel also fell to the ground from the damage he sustained but only he got up.

“Shit! I’m sorry Sean!” Abby apologized as she recalled her Mightyena. Sounds like someone’s out of Pokémon. I’ll wait to kill her until after Sean’s done too.

“Don’t worry about it Sweetie. I’ll finish these two off! Kill that Golduck with Guillotine!” Sean commanded.

“Lloyd! Get out of there! NOW!” Zack screamed. The Duck Pokémon tried moving out of the way, but the giant crab caught him by the neck and started squeezing causing Lloyd screeched in pain.

“Axel!” I called.

I know!” he responded.

I gathered as much draconic energy in my hand as my body would allow and blasted the Kingler with Dragon Pulse. That distracted Sebastian long enough for Axel to axe kick him in the head cracking his carapace above his eyes. Sebastian’s grip was now weak enough for Lloyd to free himself. The Golduck choked for air while rubbing his bruised neck. At least we wasn’t hurt too bad. The Aquas meanwhile were wide eyed with their mouths hanging open. I sighed. Must everyone have the same reaction to seeing my abilities for the first time?

“What the hell was that!?” Abby cried in shock.

“That’s probably why the Rockets refer to this guy as a demon.” Sean figured out. He looked over to his motionless Kingler and growled. “Looks like he’s done.” Sean tried to return Sebastian but it failed.

“What the hell? Why can’t I call him back?” Sean questioned with a scared look on his face. The look then turned to one of fury. “You bastard! You killed him!” he roared.

“It was either him or Lloyd and I had to save my comrade.” I said. “Now surrender! It’s two to one, you can’t possibly beat us!” I told him.

“You think!? I still have one Pokémon left and I’m willing to bet it’s strong enough to crush you!” boasted Sean. “Finish them off Samurott!” he called throwing a Pokéball. Emerging from it was a Pokémon I’d never seen before! It was a quadrupedal Pokémon with slick dark blue skin, a light blue belly, black claws, long white whiskers, a huge beige helmet with a long spike horn coming from it, and beige bands on its forearms that looked like sheathed swords. The Pokémon called Samurott gave us a fierce glare which made my body freeze in place, though not from the cold or even paralysis. It then gave a loud roar which caused me, Zack, Axel, and Lloyd to fall to our knees as if we were bowing to the monster!

“It looks like Samurott was able to subjugate you Neophytes easily! I think it’s you who should surrender!” taunted Sean. I slowly got to my feet and stared straight at my foes.

“No way! No matter how formidable your Pokémon may be, we won’t lose!” I declared.

“We over heard the two of you talking earlier. That Samurott is stolen, isn’t it?” Zack questioned. Sean smirked.

“It was stolen, but it belongs to me now. Right Samurott?” he asked the sea lion. Samurott hesitated for only a second before giving a reassuring growl.

“Looks like it still has some loyalty to its previous trainer.” Zack said to me.

“That just means we have to beat it without killing it. After that, who knows.” I said back.

“What are you two whispering about?” demanded Abby.

“Just strategizing on how to beat your boy-toy.” I said sarcastically.

“We’ll see about that! Avenge Sebastian with Retaliate!” Sean commanded. The Formidable Pokémon roared vengefully as it lunged at Axel and slammed him to the ground with a powerful punch.

“Lloyd! Help out with Cross Chop!” Zack called. Lloyd karate chopped Samurott with both hands forming an ‘X’ causing the sea lion to roar.

“Axel! Attack with Fury Swipes!” I commanded. The monkey hopped back to his feet and began rapidly slashing his opponent.

“Enough of this! Use Revenge Samurott!” ordered Sean. Samurott grabbed both of our Pokémon behind the head and smashed their heads together.

I do not have a hard skull! You have a hard skull!” Axel yelled in retaliation to something Lloyd must have said.

“Now for maximum power! Samurott! Use Focus Energy and Swords Dance!” commanded Sean. The Formidable Pokémon roared as it was surrounded by a blue aura. It then placed its forelimbs on the bands on its arms and pulled out two large swords that it began swinging around rhythmically. I was awed at how badass that creature looked standing on its hind limbs with freaking swords in its hands! Samurott was generating so much power that the ice beneath its feet started to shatter and rise up before melting.

“Since when do Pokémon wield swords?” commented Zack voicing what I was thinking.

“They’re called seamitars and trust me, they’re stronger than any sword!” Sean bragged.

“Mach Punch it Axel!” I called. Axel turned into a golden blur as he sped towards his opponent and lobbed it with a punch.

“Is that all you’ve got? Show them the power of your Razor Shell!” the Aqua commanded. Samurott lifted one of its seamitars, which was now covered with water, and slashed Axel with it causing him to scream in pain.

“Use Psychic Lloyd!” Zack called. Lloyd concentrated on Samurott surrounding both Pokémon in a blue psychic aura that caused pain to the sea lion.

“Blast it with Water Pledge!” Sean commanded. The Formidable Pokémon stabbed the ground with its swords sending pillars of water at Lloyd.

“Slide right to avoid them!” called Zack.

“You should learn some new tricks! Keep the Golduck in place with Ice Beam!” Samurott did as told, firing a stream of frozen air at Lloyd’s feet which froze him up to his knees completely immobilizing him. “Now use X-Scissor!” The sea lion lifted his seamitars and slashed them across Lloyd’s chest in an ‘X’ shape.

Back off you oversized otter!” yelled Axel running to the Duck Pokémon’s defense and using Close Combat.

“That damn monkey just won’t go down! Slash it!” ordered Sean spitefully. Samurott gave Axel a simple Slash with its seamitars, but it was enough for my Pokémon to fall. The only thing letting me know the Infernape still had some fight left in him was the fiery aura that now surrounded him thanks to Blaze.

“Axel! Free Lloyd!” I commanded. The Flame Pokémon leaped to his feet and fired Embers at Lloyd’s feet until he could break out of the ice on his own.

“That’s it! This time you won’t get up! Finish off that Infernape with Hydro Cannon!” roared Sean. The Formidable Pokémon firmly planted all four feet and launched a high powered torrent of water from its mouth.

“Take the attack with Aqua Jet!” Zack called quickly. Lloyd surrounded himself in water and bolted between Axel and Hydro Cannon taking the most of the attack. The force pushed the Golduck into Axel and pushed both into a wall. Both Pokémon were almost completely motionless.

“Zack! Why did you sacrifice Lloyd like that? I still have more Pokémon, you don’t!” I berated. He only smirked and briefly shifted his eyes upwards.

Oh my head…” I heard Axel moan. I turned to the Pokémon to see him pushing an unconscious Lloyd off. “What was the point in you fainting instead of me?” I looked up to where Zack had indicated a second ago and saw a bunch of icicle stalagmites on the ceiling above Samurott.

“Is that your plan?” I inquired holding my hands upside down and waving all of my fingers.

“Ember and Dragon Pulse will finish this, don’t you agree?” he answered.

“They’re planning something Sean!” Abby warned.

“Don’t worry. The Infernape is on its last leg and I can easily clean up any other Pokémon he has just like I did with these two.” Sean said confidently.

“I wouldn’t be so sure! Axel! Ember the ceiling!” I commanded gathering my draconic energy again. Axel looked up and fired a barrage of small flames while I used only one Dragon Pulse. It was all I could muster in this cold environment after saving Lloyd earlier. Our attacks hit their mark sending ice and rock collapsing on top of Samurott. It roared in surprise and pain as it was bombarded with the rubble. When the dust cleared Samurott was unconscious under the debris.

“Return it now!” I ordered. “You’re beaten.” Sean screamed in frustration but did as told anyway knowing there was no way around it.

“Damn Neos bastard!” cursed Abby. “If we had the rare Pokémon in this cave we would have won for sure!”

“What kind of Pokémon was it you were looking for anyway?” inquired Zack. The Aquas only glared at him.

“Like we’d tell you! The last thing we need is for Team Neos to find it and use it against us!” Abby snapped back.

“Nothing says we can’t come back later. Hopefully we won’t be dealing with any more setbacks next time!” Sean said looking at me and Zack hatefully. “I need a new Pokémon to replace Sebastian anyway.” With that, the two Aquas tried to walk away. Axel and I looked at each other before grabbing the two by their shirt collars.

“And just where do you think you’re going?” I questioned in an upbeat tone.

“Let us go! You beat us, isn’t that enough?” Abby demanded.

“Look, whatever it is you want, take me and let Abby go! You only need one of us right?” Sean offered chivalrously.

“No, I’m afraid I need you both. Where is your base?” I asked nicely.

“Our base?” Sean repeated.

“Your base.” I said. Axel and I dragged our captives over to the water and dunked their heads in. The Aquas struggled for air so I nodded to Axel allowing them to come up.

“What base!?” Abby asked frantically gasping for air.

“For wanting to expand the world’s oceans you two can’t hold your breaths very long.” I said casually before dipping their heads back under. After a few more seconds we pulled them back up.

“You want the base we’re using on the Sevii Islands right?” guessed Sean.

“Yup.”

“We honestly don’t know! The Rockets have a main headquarters around here but we Aquas and the Galactics aren’t allowed to know where it is I swear!” said Abby.

“Then where do the Aquas stay?” I interrogated politely. Too bad for them they took too long to answer so it was back underwater with them.

“You’re enjoying this way too much.” Zack pointed out.

“Yeah, your right. Let’s just drown them and be done with it Axel.” I said boredly.

Too bad. I was just getting in to that.” Axel lamented as we held the Aquas under until their struggles ended. I took Samurott’s Pokéball from Sean so that I could turn it in at the Pokémon Center as a stolen Pokémon. Hopefully they would know who to contact to get it returned to its rightful owner.

“Well Zack, shall we be off now? Lloyd’s fainted and Axel’s exhausted plus I I desperately need warmth so there really is no point in staying here.” I said.

“Sounds good to me. But what should we do about them?” he asked looking at the Aquas with their heads still in the water.

“Tell Master Raiden and get a cleanup crew in here?” I suggested not knowing that answer myself. The dead Kingler then caught my eye and it made me realize that I was pretty hungry. “That, however, is coming with me as my dinner.” I declared walking over to it.

Dibs on the big claw!” Axel claimed
--------

People stared with WTF faces I dragged the dead Kingler through town by a rope I had stashed in my backpack. Not far behind me were Axel and Zack. Lloyd was still unconscious from the battle so he was resting in his Pokéball.

“Oi! You two! Stop right there!” called a charismatically masculine voice. Approaching us was a tall well-built man with chin length black hair and ocean green eyes wearing a brown suit and a black and white checkered scarf. Traveling with him was a large red and black boar with a flaming beard. Yet another Pokémon I had never seen before!

“Today has just been full of new discoveries, hasn’t it?” I said quietly.

“Detective Zachary Klink, International Police. This is my partner Franky.” he introduced holding out a police badge and motioning his Pokémon. “Do you have a permit for that thing?”

“That is so cool! My name is also Zack!” my teammate said excitedly. I couldn’t really blame him as this was the first time we had actually met someone with the same name as someone we actually knew.

“You too huh? You’re parents have really good taste in names.” complemented the detective. “Too bad I’m going to have to arrest you two for not showing us the proper papers.” he said pulling out two sets of handcuffs.

“Woah woah woah! Hold on a second! Why are we getting arrested? What kind of permit are you talking about? We haven’t done anything wrong!” I protested waving my hands out. Well, nothing wrong other than the crimes we’ve committed as Neos officers anyway.

“If you don’t know the permit I’m talking about then you two are obviously guilty of poaching.” said Zachary twirling the cuffs around his pointer fingers. “Now are we going to do this the easy way or the hard way?”

I vote hard way. Let’s ditch the crab and run!” declared Axel.

“You mean the Kingler don’t you?” deduced Zack. “Yeah… we didn’t poach that.”

“Well clearly you don’t have a fishing license that makes it legal to catch Kingler.” retorted the detective.

“True, but it was already dead when we found it on the beach. I was hungry so I decided to bring it home for dinner.” I lied hoping it would sound at least partially plausible.

“Bullshit.” Zachary said flatly. Oh crap.

“It’s true!” I persisted.

“Idiot, I know when people are lying and you are clearly very nervous around me meaning you did something wrong.” Probably because I’m a member of an internationally wanted terrorist organization not to mention a mass murderer. But he was right about me being more nervous than I should be.

“You just caught us off guard, that’s all.” Zack said coolly. “If you had asked us more clearly for a fishing license and not threatened us with arrest, Brian here would have reacted much more calmly.”

“Then why does Franky claim the Infernape said to ‘ditch the crab and run’?” pointed out the detective.

“You understand what you’re Pokémon is telling you?” I said in awe. “Axel and I have the same relationship! Me and him are BFFs!”

Damn straight! And I can honestly tell you, we have done no crimes. Tell your Trainer that one Franky.” my monkey defended proudly.

“I’ll tell you everything that we did today. It all started this afternoon, when Axel and I went down to the beach for a sparring match. Zack came with us because we had heard that Team Neos was on the island today. Safety in numbers ya know. Zack and his Golduck, Lloyd, got bored of watch us spar so we had a battle which I just barely won hence why Axel looks pretty beat up.” I explained. Since most of it was true, hopefully the detective can’t call me out on this nonsense.

“Then where did the Kingler come from?” he questioned. Crap, I knew I forgot a detail.

“We saw it on the beach while battling, but it wasn’t until Lloyd fainted did I realize the Kingler hadn’t moved at all and was laying in an awkward position. We went up to it, found out it was dead, and that’s when Brian realized he was hungry. Just like he said.” Zack said vouching for my earlier BS. “The fact that it didn’t smell and Wingull weren’t on it yet meant it was fresh so why waste such a rare opportunity for a free meal?”

“Something is still fishy about this.” mused Zachary looking us over.

“Would it help if I told you I’m a Pokémon Ranger?” Zack said pulling out his ID. “Poaching goes against everything I stand for.” Zachary took the card and looked it over.

“Zack Kaguya from Almia. You’re ID expired two months ago.” chastised the detective hand the ID back.

“Well ok, I was kicked out because of sexual harassment charges, but I still value the cause.” defended my teammate.

“That I believe.” Zachary looked as if he were thinking for a bit before sighing. “The only way to settle this is for one of you to battle me. If I win, I at least bring you in for questioning. If you win, then I come over your place for dinner and you let me eat some of that Kingler.” he bargained.

“Done! He’s all yours Brian.” Zack volunteered.

“Hang on! Let me at least get Axel to a Pokémon Center first! He’s still tired from our earlier battle.” I said.

“Go for it. It’ll be a boring fight if you aren’t at your best.” allowed Zachary.

“By the way, what species is Franky? I’ve never seen anything like him before.” I asked.

“Franky’s an Emboar, a species native to Unova.” the detective answered. “Now hurry up and heal your Infernape! I want a fight!” he demanded.
-----

Both Zachary stood there panting. We ended up tying in our Pokémon battle, so that meant the only way to settle things was for Zachary and I to have a fist fight. His fighting style was apparently self-taught like mine, but he had a lot more muscle and raw strength than I did. Lucky for me, I was a lot faster due to being lighter than him and my constant matches with an agile monkey.

“Looks like you win Brian.” conceded the detective. He picked up his jacket, scarf, gun, and badge which he took off for our fist fight and put them back on. “So where are you staying?” he inquired.

“Ya know, I just realized that our apartment is way too small for that Kingler and an extra guest.” Zack spoke up. I knew he was only saying that because it would be a horrible idea to bring a cop to our hideout.

“No problem, the place I’m staying should be big enough.” Zachary offered.

“Perfect! Let me grab our dinner and we can be on our way!” I said. “Although I guess we should go back to the Pokémon Center first.”

That night at dinner we got into discussions about why we were on Floe Island so Zack and I had to come up with a half-truth story that we wouldn’t get busted on. I said I was looking for fun and adventure which has always been true no matter what I was doing. Zack shameless admit he was looking for women and that there were two in particular who’s attention he desired.

“One is this really cute albino chick who said she only goes out with strong trainers and the other is a sexy blond who I’m almost positive is into S&M.” he explained. “Oh how I would love to take a beating from her.”

“Come on, I’m eating here!” protested Zachary throwing a chunk of shell at Kaguya. The detective then went on to explain that he was in the Sevii Island on the trail of a couple of Aquas who stole a Samurott from a regular competitor in Unova’s tournaments and Battle Subway. It explained why the Pokémon was so strong and well disciplined. It also made me wonder just how long Sean had it and what he did to it to make it obey him. I hadn’t had a chance to turn it in yet nor can I hand it over now because that would raise too many questions that I couldn’t answer without getting myself in trouble.

“Something wrong?” asked Zachary obviously sensing the situation.

“Nah, I just feel bad for that Samurott and its trainer. I’d lose my mind and probably go on a rampage if anything happened to Axel or any of my other Pokémon.” I said.

“Same here. When I catch those Aquas they’re getting an ass kicking before I arrest them.” he promised. Unfortunately I already knew he wasn’t getting his wish. The rest of our meal carried a much lighter tone and was actually pretty enjoyable. I figure as long as Zachary doesn’t find out I’m a criminal, we can be really good friends.

Hey! That’s my piece!” Axel yelled as Franky took a chunk of meat the monkey had reached for. The Emboar slammed his fist to the table and obviously said something insulting to Axel because the Infernape stood up and growled at him. Franky responded by getting up as well, sticking his face in front of Axel and snorting at him. Axel’s flame got more intense as he leaned forward and growled at Franky again. The Emboar’s beard flame also flared as he leaned into Axel. Looks like they’ll be good friends too.

“Hey Brian.” Zachary said when we finished eating. Without waiting for me to respond he punched me hard in the shoulder. “We’re rivals now! From this day forward we must fight every time we meat! Got that?” he declared.

“Understood. So right now the record is 1-0 me, right?” I teased.

“Just who the hell do you think I am? I’ll make that score 1-1 million, you can be sure of that!” he proclaimed dramatically.

“Then I’ll just have to make sure you actually win one.” I retorted.
--------

That night before returning to our hotel, Zack and I put on our Neos uniforms and went to the Pokémon Center. There was still one more thing we had to do.

“Holy Shit! It’s Team Neos!” cried someone in panic. The people around us looked apprehensive, but Zack and I paid them no mind.

“What do you want?” asked the nurse at the counter nervously. I pulled out Samurott’s Pokéball and put it on the counter.

“This Pokémon was stolen by Team Aqua. I believe there is a detective of the International Police on this island who is searching for it. Tell him we defeated those Aquas and return this Pokémon safe and sound.” I said. Without another word, Zack and I left the Center.

Done?” asked Axel who had been waiting outside with Lloyd. We didn’t want them to contact Zachary and be able to give accurate descriptions of us.

“Yeah, we’re done here.” I said. When we finally got back, we had to explain to Raiden what happened and where we had been all day. Apparently he had tried calling us but both of our phones were conveniently dead. Deciding it couldn’t be helped, he let us off with a slap on the wrist.
*************

For the record I will take requests on future cameos, but only if you meet the following requirements:
1. You MUST be a regular. I will not accept requests from random n00bs.
2. Do not make your requests here. If you want a cameo, contact me in chat.

Other than that, I hope you enjoyed the chapter! ^_^
 
“Just be ready for us to kick that Shiny Eevee around like a football!”

lol

Awesome chapter~ We got to see an nice battle and a good look at Team Neos' more brutal tactics. I feel for poor Chane though. It makes me wonder how long she can take this without something happening to her psyche. You also did a good job with the cameos and it didn't come off at all like pandering.

I do wish we could've seen the Emboar versus Infernape fight but that would've been overkill for one chapter. Perhaps you can write it out one day for kicks? Just sayin'
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Carmen Lopez said:
I do wish we could've seen the Emboar versus Infernape fight but that would've been overkill for one chapter. Perhaps you can write it out one day for kicks? Just sayin'

Actually, I'll let the battle write itself when Zacky and I finally have our RP battle. Does that work for you Zacky? ;)
 

Shiny Motley

2016 Singles Football
... I did not expect this at all.
A cameo.
When did this-
*dies of happiness*
fffffff yapping at you ;; and the football joke <333333

ALL MY FEELS. LEMME GIVE YOU ALL MY FEELS. *smothers with love*

(now time for me to catch up with the rest of the fic XD)
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Good tidings friends. At least on this side of the world it is now January 9th marking four years of life for this fic. If everything goes according to plan, I should have it finished by the fifth anniversary,but we'll see. :p

Chapter 39: Liberation

Today Raiden and I were doing the grocery shopping for our squad. Since twenty-five people were a lot to feed, every squad was responsible for their own food shopping. We were in Five Island on Chrono Island, which being a small town, had an outdoor market where everything was fresh. The delicious scents of all the foods made me glad Raiden was with me, because I’d probably start buying everything. While we shopped, I got the ballsy idea to start asking people about Team Rocket. We weren’t going to get anywhere looking for leads from the shadows. The problem was that everyone I talked to got really uncomfortable about the subject and claimed they knew nothing. It was very suspicious.

“If you are done harassing the locals, we still have to pick up fish.” Raiden said as we approached the stand.

“I know, I know.” I sighed.

I’m sure we’ll have better luck later.” Axel assured.

“Excuse me. How much is your fish?” Raiden asked the fish vender.

“20 bucks a piece. Limit one per customer.” replied the vender.

“Why so expensive? And why the restriction?” I asked.

“If you don’t like it, shop somewhere else! But you won’t find any better deals because fish stocks ‘round these parts are all but depleted. We gotta make a living somehow.” the vender said.

“I understand. In that case I will buy one fish if you lower the price to $15.” my master haggled.

“18, and not a penny less.” negotiated the vender. With that the deal was struck. As we were walking away from the stand, a young couple approached us. Not the vender, but us specifically. Both of them looked very nervous, like a guilty conscience about to confess their sins.

“Um sorry to bother you, but… are you the ones asking about Team Rocket?” asked the male. He was kind of short and skinny with messy dirty blonde hair.

Well would ya look at that! Your plan worked!” teased Axel. I gave him a playful nudge.

“We are! Do you have information for us?” I asked excitedly.

“But first, who are you two?” questioned Raiden distrustfully. The female, who had long red hair, glasses, and was rather well endowed, lowered her head and started shaking. The male put his arm around her for comfort.

“I am John Michaels and this is my fiancé Clara.” introduced John.

“Could we please go somewhere more private?” requested Clara. “The information we have is a bit sensitive and I don’t want the wrong people to overhear us.”

“In that case I hope you do not mind if I make a phone call first. For all we know, you could be leading us into a trap.” Raiden said matter-of-factly as he pulled out his cellphone.

“Skylar, this is Raiden. Brian and I have found a possible lead on Team Triad. *pause* That is correct. In the event that I do not call back in one hour, call me. If I do not answer, then assume that the two of us were captured or killed and launch a full sweep of this island. *pause* I am not asking you to turn the island into a wasteland! *pause* Do not let Feng turn this island into a wasteland! *pause**sigh* Ok, bye.” Raiden closed his phone and turned his attention back to the couple.

“Going a bit overboard there Master Raiden?” I asked snarkily. He gave me a sideways glance but didn’t entertain my comment with a response.

“Alright, lead the way.” he offered.

The couple took us to a small house on the edge of town that I assume was theirs. After inviting us inside, Clara began giving us the details.

“Ok.” she started still acting nervous and fidgety. “I know where Team Rocket’s Sevii Island base is.” she spat out. Did she really just say that? I leaned forward in my seat with anticipation ready to hear more.

Sweet!” Axel cheered eagerly rubbing his hands together.

“Ou-- Their base is in the Five Isle Meadow, about a mile south from here.” continued Clara. Her correction did not go unnoticed by either me or Raiden.

“How do you know where their base is exactly?” Raiden questioned. Clara got anxious again.

“You don’t have to answer.” John assured.

“Actually she does. We are members of Team Neos and she started to say ‘Our base’ just now.” Raiden insisted.

“That she did.” I affirmed.

“It’s ok John.” she reassured her fiancé. “I am an ex-member of Team Rocket.”

“She said ex-member! That means you don’t have to kill her!” John said in a panic jumping between us and her with his arms spread out.

Hey Brian? Is an ex-member still a criminal?” asked Axel.

“It depends on her crimes.” I said staring at her with dragon eyes. Raiden put his hand on my shoulder.

“Tell us your story then. Was Team Neos the reason you abandon Team Rocket?” asked my master.

“Actually…” she paused and put her hand on her stomach. “…this is.” I reverted back to human-forme when I realized what she was implying. She was pregnant!

“I was born dirt poor so I joined Team Rocket to make money. All I ever did was steal material things. Never Pokémon, unless they were stray, and I’ve never killed anyone in my life!” she explained. John held her hand in his.

“I never cared that Clara was a Rocket because for her it was just a job and she never did anything bad.” he admit.

“When John and I hit it off, I figured things could stay as they were. But then I got pregnant. I didn’t want our child involved in life of crime like its mother. And of course with Team Neos indiscriminately killing Rockets left and right, I didn’t want an innocent life taken for my mistakes.” Clara continued.

“I already told you that we are with Team Neos, why did you tell us all of this?” inquired Raiden. I was also curious as to why they didn’t stay quiet and just ignore us like everyone else in town.

“Ever since you guys beat Team Magma and forced the Rocket’s team up with Aqua and Galactic, things have gotten worse around here.” John informed. “Before, Team Rocket simply bullied the townspeople, but now they’re holding Five Island hostage with threat of annihilation! Everyone is too scared to even talk about them out of fear for what the Rockets will do! We agreed it was better if you were to chase them out rather than live in fear.”

“Alright then! We’ll just grab our teammates and destroy them all!” I guaranteed gleefully.

“No! Please don’t kill anyone there!” begged Clara. “Defeat them and capture them for the police to deal with, but don’t kill them. Some of them are still my friends.”

“You think you can have it both ways?” I questioned maliciously.

“Hang on. I think it is time we brought in the others.” Raiden said pulling out his phone again. He called Skylar, reassured her we were alive, gave her the address of the house, and filled her in on the main details.

“Bring everyone.” was the last thing he said before hanging up. “I will discuss your proposal with my cohorts, but know that I have already made my decision.” Raiden told the couple.

“Which is?” inquired John.

“It can wait.” he replied.
---------------

When the other 23 arrived, Raiden went outside to talk to Skylar and Feng while I was left inside to make sure the couple didn’t try anything sneaky. That is until Zack came in with my uniform. I then went to the bathroom to change while he watched them.

“We have made our decision.” Raiden said reentering the house in his uniform.

“So you’re going to let them live?” Clara asked hopefully.

“No.” said Raiden flatly. “Our orders from our Captains are to kill all members of Team Triad without mercy. They brought this upon themselves. While I understand your reasoning for coming to us, you betrayed your former teammates the moment you told us where to find them. I have no reason to honor the requests of traitors.” he said harshly. Clara threw her face into her palms and started sobbing.

“I knew we couldn’t trust you people!” John spat bitterly.

“Nor do we trust you.” retorted Raiden. “Only twelve of us will be going to the location you specified. The remaining thirteen will stay here to make sure you two do not try to escape or warn those you have betrayed. If you are telling the truth then this is just an inconvenience. If you are sending us on a wild goose chase while Team Triad makes a bold move elsewhere or if this is an ambush, then you will be dealt with in a way that will not harm your child.”

“So which twelve get to raid the base?” I asked hopefully.

“The personal squads of the Seated Officers. I have five, Skylar has four, and Feng has three.” I couldn’t help but squee with delight. I get to be in the best group! Unless we get ambushed. But we’re badasses so fuck them.
------------

“Hey Raiden and Brian. Just curious, but where’s the food you guys bought?” asked Zack as we walked down a trail in Five Isle Meadow.

“We hijacked their fridge.” I said nonchalantly.

“Halt! Who goes there?” demanded a Rocket jumping out of a bush at us. After one look at us and realizing he was facing a dozen Neos officers, all the color drained from his face and all the piss drained from his bladder. “I’m sorry. I’m just going back in my bush now.” he said extremely apologetically.

“No you’re not.” Feng rejected bringing out Reaper and slashing the hapless grunt from about half way between his bellybutton and the bottom of the ‘R’ to just under his ribcage piercing his heart. The Rocket could barely scream as he collapsed because of the damage done to his diaphragm.

Well clearly we’re going in the right direction if we’re running into wannabe guards.” Axel said.

“What’s going on over here?” yelled one of two more Rockets running up the road.

“Shit! Team Neos!” screamed the other one.

“Don’t panic! We can’t let them get to the base!” declared the first one.

“You clowns know you’re out numbered right?” questioned one of Skylar’s subordinates sarcastically.

“Shut up!” the suicidal brave one snapped. Each Rocket threw down two Pokéballs releasing an Ekans, a Grimer, a Rattata, and a Gloom.

“These idiots are dead!” assured one of Feng’s minions throwing a Great Ball. In a flash of light three tall brown heads with round pink noses protruded from the ground. “Kill them with Fissure Dugtrio!” The Mole Pokémon dug its way underground, then in less than a second created a massive shockwave that split the ground apart in front of us.

“Run!” cried the Rockets in horror. Before they could even turn around, the ground beneath them collapsed sending them and their Pokémon falling into a bottomless abyss. The crevasse was then forcefully closed allowing us safe passage while crushing our enemies.

“Keep moving people! Their base can’t be too far away!” Feng ordered. Sure enough a few meters down the road and around the corner to our right was a building sitting on a hill. The building was colored a mix of dingy grey and rust making it look like an abandoned warehouse. I had to give the Rockets credit; they were smart in disguising their base. Too bad they weren’t as smart in other regards. Just as the Aquas from Icefall Cave said, there were only Rockets patrolling the perimeter.

“I count four of them.” said Skylar.

“In that case, any four of you go battle them while the rest of us break into the Warehouse.” Raiden instructed.

“On it Master!” I volunteered.

“Don’t let Arka’s boy take all the credit! Both of you go!” Feng ordered his henchmen.

“I’ll go too.” volunteered one of Skylar’s subordinates. The four of us ran up the hill catching the Rockets by surprise.

“What the fuck! Team Neos found our base? How?” shouted one Rocket.

“Does it matter? They’re already here, so let’s just hurry up and kill them already!” one of the others directed waving his arm at us to get the rest to follow.

“Come at me bro!” I challenged to the Rocket unfortunate enough to pick me as his opponent.

“I won’t be easy Neophyte! I am Executive Ariana Sham’s best agent!” my opponent boasted.

“Oh good! I was hoping for a challenging opponent.” I said sarcastically.

“You’ll pay for your arrogance with your life! Go Drowzee!” called the Rocket sending out a Pokémon with a brown fur covering its lower body and hooved feet. Above the waist it had yellow fur, three long fingers on each hand, and a small trunk for a nose.

“Then I’ll use Snorlax!” I called sending out the rotund bear. Even if Drowzee were to put him to sleep, Snorlax would still be able to fight.

“Oh yeah! Do you think I’m dumb enough to use Hypnosis on a Snorlax?”

“Yes.” I retorted honestly. The Rocket gave me an angry look.

“So smug! Let’s see how you like this! Use Poison Gas Drowzee!” he commanded. The Hypnosis Pokémon lifted its trunk and snorted a purple smoke at Snorlax. The only reaction my Pokémon had to the fumes was to sneeze. “What the hell?” the Rocket cried in shock.

“Immunity bitch!” I answered. “Now taste Drowzee with Lick!” I called. Snorlax lumbered over to his opponent then gave Drowzee a nice big slurp leaving the Pokémon looking violated and covered in slobber.

“Use Confusion!” barked my opponent. Drowzee wagged his fingers sending purple rings of psychic energy at the Sleeping Pokémon. Snorlax only grumbled at the weak attack showing no signs of being confused.

“Did Drowzee taste good? If yes, use Crunch! If not, Crunch anyway!” I commanded. The large bear picked up Drowzee in his left paw, brought it to his face and chomped down on it causing the Hypnosis Pokémon to cry out in pain. “Now Fling!”

He means throw Drowzee!” Axel translated in response to Snorlax’s brief confusion as to not knowing the move of the same name. Snorlax chucked Drowzee to the ground knocking it unconscious. The Rocket returned Drowzee and readied another Pokéball.

“You bastard! Make him pay Grimer!” commanded the Rocket sending out a pile of purple sludge. “Use Minimize and Acid Armor!” Grimer contracted its body and melted down until it was half its previous size and twice as dense. “Let’s see you beat Grimer as easily!”

“Challenge accepted! Snorlax! Use Belly Drum and Defense Curl!” I called. The Sleeping Pokémon beat on his large belly to work himself up and then curled up into a large ball.

“Like playing defense will help you! Blast the Trainer with Gunk Shot Grimer!” my foe ordered.

“Rollout!” I countered. While the Sludge Pokémon chucked parts of its filthy body at me, Snorlax pushed himself forward getting between me and the attack. He took the Gunk Shot, then continued to power forward running over Grimer.

“Shit! Grimer! Change target! Hit Snorlax with Sludge!” the Rocket commanded. Grimer threw a larger piece of its body at Snorlax but it didn’t even slow him down. Grimer got run over again and this time didn’t get back up.

“Too weak.” I mocked. “Rollout the Rocket.” I commanded boredly.

“You son of a bi—AAAHHHH!!” screamed the Grunt as he got flattened. If he was the ‘best agent’ like he claimed then this was going to be way too easy! Or this was a decoy base that was meant to be easy. Either way, we now had seven dead Rockets which was more than we started the day with so that was at least somewhat productive.

“Hey slowpokes! We’re in!” Eve called to us. I returned Snorlax and ran to the door with the other Officers. Correction: we went into the large gaping hole where the door used to be. The inside looked about as shoddy as the outside as far as appearances went. There were a few crates here and there containing who knows what. What gave this place away as Rocket territory rather than an ordinary warehouse was the red ‘R’ plastered on one of the walls. Thanks to our dramatic entrance, there was also an alarm going off letting everyone in the facility know they had visitors.

Will someone turn that thing off?” Axel yelled holding his ears.

“I find it unsettling that the alarm is going off but we haven’t been attacked yet.” Skylar pointed out.

“They are probably trying to lure us into a trap. We should proceed with caution.” advised Raiden.

“Cowards! Both of you! Isn’t it obvious that they have learned to fear Team Neos? We’re supposed to be bringing the fight to them, not waiting around for when it’s convenient for them!” Feng yelled. “Now! Everyone! Stay together and overwhelm them with our numbers!” he commanded leading the assault on the Warehouse.

“This is a bad idea.” I heard Raiden say in a hushed voice as he reluctantly followed his superior deeper in the base with the rest of us. As soon as we turned the next corner, I felt something click underneath my feet. If this is a bomb, so help me I’m haunting these bastards for the rest of eternity! Luckily, instead of an explosion, a blue light appeared that zigzagged all across the floor as far as I could see. I looked down to see that the light under my feet took the form of a flashing arrow pointing forward. I heard another clicking sound and felt myself being uncontrollably jerked in the direction of the arrow. I was thrown into another arrow pointing to my left and dragged in that direction next.

“What the hell is this!?” someone screamed.

“Dammit Kenny! We tried to warn you!” reprimanded Skylar angrily. All of us were being forced in different directions depending on where the arrows on the floor were pointing. So much for sticking together! I tried resisting the pull of the arrows by going back the way I came or moving in a different direction, but the arrows were moving faster than I could run.

“Axel! Grab hold!” I called holding out my arm.

Gotcha!” he said as we grabbed each other’s forearms. At this point I was getting so dizzy I thought I was going to puke! This was the most diabolical booby-trap in existence! Curse you Team Rocket! Axel and I were finally thrown back on solid ground in some random corridor now completely separated from everyone else.

“Ow…” I moaned rubbing my head waiting for the world to stop spinning.

That sucked.” groaned Axel laying on the ground.

“Catch me!” someone yelled only to stagger into the room like Axel and I did and fall flat on her face. I could tell right away by the fanservicy modifications to the Neos uniform that was Eve.

“Of all the people to get stuck with.” I lamented regretfully. Eve looked up at us and feigned a hurtful expression.

“Why didn’t you catch me?” she asked dejectedly.

“Because it’s funny watching you get hurt.” I said with a mischievous grin.

“You’re such a terrible monkey.” ridiculed Eve trying to standup but still being so dizzy that she was wobbling instead. She tried using her arms for balance but that barely made a difference. Axel and I started snickering at her ordeal.

“Be quiet you two! At least I’m making the effort to stand!” she shot back at us for still sitting around.

“We know our weaknesses.” I admit shamelessly.

True dat!” agreed Axel giving a thumbs-up.

“That’s good to know Neophyte. Then perhaps you’ll be wise enough to surrender right now.” said a smug female voice. I jumped up and snarled turning left to see a woman with bright red hair done up in a ridiculous style wearing a white dress with black trim. On the left side of her chest was a black badge that had the red ‘R’ on it. There was something about this woman greatly bothered me. I knew right away that she was higher ranked than any grunt, but that wasn’t it. There was something… familiar about her.

“As if we would surrender to you Old Lady!” Eve mocked.

“Watch your tongue girl!” the woman snapped. “I will have you know that I am Executive Ariana Sham of Team Rocket.” Heh. An Executive huh? This should be fun!

“Hang on. There is something oddly familiar about you. Have we met before?” Eve mused. So I’m not the only one who thought so.

“Hmph. How dare you look down on me! I’ve had to waste time on Team Neos before but I never let them escape alive!” Ariana said condescendingly. Then her eyes narrowed with an expression of anger. “You! Did you two interfere with Team Rocket’s objective at the Johto Day Care Center on Route 34?” she demanded.

“Yup!” I said proudly. Realization then dawned on me. Ariana looked very similar to the wench in charge of the Rockets during that operation. The woman Diva killed! Oh shit. This is not good.

“Then which one of you killed Chermaine? Which one of you killed my cousin!?” roared Ariana venomously.

“You mean that old hag was your cousin? I see the resemblance.” Eve mocked snidely.

“Yup. This one is all yours Eve. I’ll just sit back and clean up the mess.” I said nonchalantly. It wasn’t my place to get involved with revenge plots.

“Don’t think you’re out of the woods yet boy! I’ll kill you next after I finish your little whore!” Ariana promised darkly.

“Bitch please. Eve isn’t mine.” I rejected.

Nor do we have any interest in her.” Axel added.

“You are such a child. What ever happened to chivalry?” Eve questioned mockingly.

“You should be pleased. Chane and I both defeated a Rocket Executive so this is your chance to prove you’re better than us.” I pointed out.

“I promise you this won’t be easy! I am the second strongest of the Four Rocket Executives and third strongest in the entire organization! You two could take me on at once and I would still win!” boasted Ariana. “Let’s go Vileplume!” she called throwing a Pokéball. A Pokémon with a blue body and a large red flower on its head with purple spots on the pedals appeared.

“I like it when my opponents are arrogant. It makes it that much more fun when they lose! Time to play Roserade!” Eve called sending out her Bouquet Pokémon. “You just stay out of this Little Boy.” she added as an aside to me.

“Plan to.” I said putting my hands behind my head. I had no idea what she was thinking using Roserade when Walrein or Diva would have been better choices but, with this being Eve, this should be a pretty good fight regardless.

“Chermaine was full of promise. She was on her way to become the fifth Rocket Executive. We may not have always seen eye to eye or gotten along, but she was still family! You will pay for the disgrace you brought upon Team Rocket! Use Poison Powder on the girl Vileplume!” the Executive ordered. The Flower Pokémon shook its head sending a cloud of purple spores at my coworker.

“Are you dumb? Or maybe you’re just senile.” taunted Eve. Roserade jumped between her Trainer and the Poison Powder letting every particle touch her instead to no effect. “Did you forget that my Pokémon was also a Poison-type? There is no way anything is going to happen to me as long as I’ve got my children with me. Isn’t that right?” Roserade nodded in response to her mistress.

“Then let’s see how your Pokémon reacts to this! Stun Spore!” commanded Ariana. This time a yellow cloud shook out of Vileplume’s flower. Roserade’s eyes narrowed. If she dodged, Eve would get afflicted with paralysis instead.

“Get ready.” Eve prompted. The Bouquet Pokémon nodded and put her face in her blue flower. When the Stun Spore cloud struck, Roserade’s body stiffened with Paralysis.

“How pathetic! You’re not off to a very good start Neophyte.” Ariana ridiculed.

“Better than you think. I’m in complete control of this battle! Aromatherapy Roserade!” Eve called. The Grass-type took a deep inhale of her flower then lowered her arm and moved her body to show that she was no longer paralyzed. The Executive growled at how easily she was thwarted again.

“Well if status ailments won’t work then how about this! Use Sweet Scent followed by Acid Vileplume!” she commanded. A pleasant relaxing aroma filled the room. As soon as Roserade appeared off guard, Vileplume lowered its head again and sprayed a corrosive green liquid all over the Bouquet Pokémon.

“Is that the best you’ve got? I expected more from a Rocket Executive.” taunted Eve. “Oh well. Show them a real attack Roserade! Poison Jab!” The Bouquet Pokémon’s red flower took on a purple glow as she ran at her opponent and punched it. “And now… Shadow Ball!” my coworker followed up. A spiraling sphere of darkness formed between Roserade’s flowers which she then launched at Vileplume sending the oversized flower flying into a wall.

“You bitch!” yelled the Rocket Executive. “Blast Roserade with Sludge Bomb and then use Giga Drain to heal yourself!” Vileplume lowered its head and shot a large purple glob of crap from its flower at Roserade. Eve’s Pokémon jumped out of the way of the sludge, but found herself ensnared by three green tendrils of energy that Vileplume was using to suck her vitality. Roserade shrugged off the attack and easily broke free of the tendrils.

“*mocking laughter* You are so stupid! As if that weak attack would work.” chided Eve. “Now see, if you want to heal yourself, you should try Synthesis or Moonlight. In fact, let me help you with that! Cast Sunny Day Roserade!” she offered kindly. Roserade raised her red flower and shot a white orb at the ceiling. The ball exploded filling the room with artificial sunlight. I reflexively held my arm over my eyes and squinted as I was temporarily blinded. As my eyes adjusted, I notice Axel and Ariana had done the same.

“Oh I’ll show you just how helpful this is! Use Solar Beam Vileplume!” Ariana commanded. Vileplume lowered its head and shot a golden ray of energy at Roserade. The Bouquet Pokémon crossed her arms to block the brunt of the attack but was still pushed back. “Again!” the Executive ordered. The Flower Pokémon shot off another rapid fire Solar Beam.

“Do the same Darling!” Eve called. Roserade held out both flowers and launched her own Solar Beam countering Vileplume’s. After a short beam struggle, the two rays exploded midfield with no clear winner. “Aw. That simply won’t do.” Eve said with sarcastic disappointment. “Power up with Growth Roserade!” The Grass-type held out her arms and basked in the artificial sunlight. I couldn’t tell because of the glare, but it looked like Roserade was actually growing taller.

“Vileplume! Use Pedal Dance!” ordered Ariana. Vileplume started spinning in circles causing red pedals to fly at Roserade.

“This next attack is going to hurt me more than it will hurt you. Mainly because I’ll be laughing.” Eve said with an evil smirk. “Use Weather Ball Roserade!” Roserade spun her red flower around until she had gathered a few rays from her artificial sun into a flaming ball that she then threw at Vileplume. The Flower Pokémon screamed in agony as it temporarily caught on fire. Its pain combined with its fatigue induced confusion caused it to run into a wall knocking itself out. As promised, Eve was in tears from laughing so hard.

“I will not let you tarnish the pride of Team Rocket!” Ariana yelled as she called back her Pokémon. “Make her pay Murkrow!” A bird covered in black feathers and a large yellow beak emerged from its Dusk Ball. The feathers on its head had the appearance of a witch’s hat while its tail feathers looked like bottom part of a broom. Murkrow cawed at us loudly. If it was trying to be intimidating, it utterly failed.

“Awww, it’s so cute!” Eve said sweetly. “You are just the most adowable widdile biwdy I ever did see!” There is clearly something wrong with me because I find her teasing and mocking others hilarious even though I’ve been the victim of it in the past.

“You little brat! How dare you mock me! Smack her with Wing Attack Murkrow!” the Executive commanded.

“You never learn.” Eve teased. “Roserade! Use Poison Jab!” Before Murkrow could land its attack on Eve, Roserade punched it with her blue flower causing the crow to caw in pain. The Darkness Pokémon spun around and retaliated against Roserade with another Wing Attack causing her to fall to her knees and then fall flat on the floor.

“Oh poopy. Your turn Nidoqueen!” Eve called throwing a Moon Ball before recalling Roserade. The monster rabbit appeared with a mighty roar.

“Murkrow! That thing looks pretty slow so keep your distance with Tailwind and use Night Shade!” commanded Ariana. The Darkness Pokémon squawked as it flapped its wings creating a strong updraft. Using its new found speed, Murkrow flew circles around Nidoqueen before shooting waves of black energy at her. During the assault the light in the room got dimmer as Sunny Day faded away.

“Well if you insist on your Pokémon showing off, I’ll just have to do the same. Nidoqueen! Show these old timers your Swagger!” Eve called.

“Who the hell do you think you’re calling old!?” yelled the Executive indignantly. Meanwhile, Nidoqueen was putting her hands on her hips and shaking her upper body to taunt Murkrow. The bird cried loudly indicating the attack had worked.

“Shake it off Murkrow! Hit Nidoqueen with Faint Attack!” Ariana ordered. Murkrow corkscrewed through the air slamming the Drill Pokémon in the chest causing her to roar in pain.

“Quit playing around Nidoqueen. You know these weaklings can’t hurt you.” Eve taunted.

“What did you say?” demanded the Rocket Executive angrily. I saw my teammate smirking under her hood.

“You heard me. You’re weak! Watch this. Bite Murkrow with Poison Fang!” she commanded. The Queen of the Nidoran took advantage of her opponent’s disorientation from confusion and sunk her teeth into the crow causing it to squawk loudly in pain. When Nidoqueen pulled her mouth off, purple ooze poured out of the wound indicating Murkrow had been poisoned.

“How dare you mock me! I already told you, I’m one of Team Rocket’s best! There is no way I’ll lose to the likes of you!” Ariana promised.

“And? Petrel Lambda and Lance Proton are also Executives of Team Rocket right? The best your organization has to offer?” Eve questioned.

“Those two are Executives, yes, but they are also a lot weaker than me. More importantly, how do you know about them?” the Executive asked suspiciously.

“My toy over there defeated Lambda and his girlfriend wiped the floor with Proton. And I’m stronger than both of them.” Eve said proudly pointing at me.

“Well fuck you too.” I said spitefully.

“Well that doesn’t make you better than me! Blast them with Dark Pulse!” commanded the Rocket Executive. Murkrow opened its beak and started gathering darkness in its mouth. It then fired its attack but instead of at Nidoqueen or even Eve, it attacked its own trainer in confusion. Ariana jumped back and lifted her arms as a shield but was still thrown to the ground by the shockwave. Axel and I joined Eve in laughing at the Rocket.

“Shut up! All of you, shut the hell up!” she roared furiously. “Murkrow! I am your master! How dare you attack me like that!”

“I guess I should probably finish it off now. It’s no fun for me if you call it back or if it accidentally kills you.” said Eve in disappointment. “Alright Nidoqueen, finish it with Ice Beam!” The monster rabbit opened her mouth and launched a frozen ray at the Darkness Pokémon knocking it out of the air. Any fight it may have had left was quickly drained away by Poison.

“You bitch!” Ariana spat.

“Keep ‘em coming! This battle is just getting good!” said Eve cheerfully.

“Strangle her Arbok!” called the Rocket Executive sending out a long purple serpent with a wide hood. Its chest was marked with a pattern resembling a demonic face. Arbok hissed and gave Nidoqueen a fierce glare dropping her vitality with Intimidate. “Use Glare to slow her down!” Arbok stared right into the Drill Pokémon’s eyes causing her whole body to shake. “Let’s see you heal that one!” taunted Ariana.

“Damn. This could be a problem.” Eve said with concern. “For you.” she added sweetly with a hint of evil. “Use Earth Power Nidoqueen!” Nidoqueen slowly lifted her leg then stomped the ground as hard as she could. Unfortunately, the slow start up allowed Arbok to slither out of the way before the ground exploded where the snake used to be.

“Now Wrap that thing up and squeeze the life out of it!” Ariana ordered with sadistic glee. The Cobra Pokémon coiled around Nidoqueen’s body completely trapping her. “Now use Ice Fang!” Cold air sunk from Arbok’s frost covered mouth as the snake reared its head back and struck its prey with lightning fast speed on the shoulder.

“Nidoqueen! Free yourself with Body Slam!” Eve commanded. With paralysis and Arbok restricting her movements, the Drill Pokémon had no choice but to allow herself to fall forward to smash her opponent to the ground but doing damage to herself as well. The Cobra Pokémon hissed angrily as it unwrapped itself and pulled out from under Nidoqueen. Out of spite it bit the Drill Pokémon again leaving her fainted.

“And you thought I would have a problem? Kill her Arbok before she can send out another Pokémon!” commanded the Executive. The serpent slithered across the floor faster than Eve could grab a Pokéball and loomed up in front of her to intimidate its prey before striking. The only reason I chose not to step in was because I saw Eve pull something out of the pocket on her skirt before Arbok reached her.

“Please.” my teammate said with disdainfully. She raised the bottle she was holding and sprayed it in Arbok’s eyes causing the snake to hiss in pain and anger. Eve used that time to run away from the Pokémon.

“And here I thought pepper spray was only good for would-be rapists.” she said innocently as she put away her weapon and readied another Pokéball. “By the way Ariana, my snake is bigger than yours!” she said mischievously sending out Steelix. The Iron Snake Pokémon gave a low pitched roar upon emerging. Steelix towered over everyone on the field with his head nearly scrapping against the ceiling.

“Size doesn’t matter!” Ariana rejected.

“It does during sex.” Eve said shamelessly. I facepalmed.

“Only you and Zack would go there.” I said shaking my head.

“You called?” I turned around to see Zack and Lloyd skating into the room to join us.

“What took you so long?” I teased.

“A couple of lowly grunts. The usual.” he answered cheerfully. “So what’s going on here?”

“Eve is kicking an Executive’s ass.” I said grinning. Zack got an excited look and turned to the battle.

“I hope they rip each other’s clothes off!” he said with anticipation.

“The bigger they are, the harder they fall! Take that thing down with Earthquake Arbok!” ordered the Executive. The Cobra Pokémon’s eyes were red from irritation and it had a murderous look in them. It slammed its body to the floor creating powerful tremors that shook the whole room. Steelix roared in pain from the attack.

“You call that an Earthquake?” mocked Eve. “Show them a real Earthquake Steelix!”

Oh shit.” Axel said in a deadpan tone as he jumped on my back to escape the stronger tremors that were about to come. The Iron Snake Pokémon slammed his head to the floor so hard it left cracks at the epicenter and sent powerful shockwaves that probably vibrated the whole facility. Zack and I were both knocked to the floor from the attack.

Will you get off of me?” yelled my Infernape as he punched me in the chest and kicked me from behind. When I fell, it was on top of him.

“But you’re a comfy pillow.” I teased before standing up. I then helped him back to his feet.

“I told you, didn’t I? Size. Matters.” said Eve superiorly. Ariana clenched her fists in anger.

“Size means nothing when your opponent is stronger! Smack that overgrown snake with Iron Tail!” the Rocket Executive commanded. Arbok’s tail turned silver before it swatted Steelix’s body creating a high pitched metallic clang.

“Steelix Sweetie, use Crunch on that tiny worm!” called Eve. “And you can swallow it if you want to.” she allowed. The steel serpent swung his head down snatching Arbok up in his jaws. I remembered when Eve used this strategy with my Pokémon only it wasn’t as imposing now as it was then because Arbok was a third of Steelix’s size as opposed to my Pokémon which were much smaller. The Cobra Pokémon hissed in pain as Steelix crushed it between his massive jaws.

“Arbok! Bite it with Fire Fang!” commanded Ariana. The serpent swung its body like a pendulum and bit Steelix on the lower jaw with flames coming from its mouth. The Iron Snake Pokémon roared and threw Arbok to the floor in anger. The Rocket’s snake had several bleeding teeth marks in its body from the pressure of Steelix’s bite.

“Steelix didn’t seem to like your Earthquake earlier Arbok. Do it again!” Ariana ordered. Arbok slammed its body to the floor creating more tremors. The attack obviously infuriated the already irritable metal serpent for he now had his head cocked back charging a silver blast.

“Fine, use Flash Cannon if you really want to.” Eve allowed boredly. Even without her permission, Steelix threw his large head forward launching a giant silver ball at the Cobra Pokémon. One violent explosion later, and the Rocket Executive was down another Pokémon.

“Unreal! I can’t be losing right now! There is no way some low ranking grunt in Team Neos is this strong!” shouted Ariana in denial.

“That’s because I’m not a low ranking grunt. I’m an Officer thank you very much.” Eve corrected as if she had been offended.

“And just so you know, we aren’t even the best.” Zack added. “Somewhere in this building are three Seated Officers which thoroughly out rank us by a wide margin. And there are still two whole ranks above them.”

“In short, you and the rest of Team Rocket are nothing but pathetic trash.” I ridiculed.

“How dare you make a mockery of me and Team Rocket! I haven’t lost yet!” yelled Ariana throwing down another ball releasing a large pile of purple sludge. I could tell right away from its size and nauseating smell that this wasn’t another Grimer like I fought earlier, it was the evolved form, Muk.

“Just give up, it’ll be easier. I mean, the results will be the same either way.” Eve offered sweetly.

“Never! I will make you suffer for daring to challenge Team Rocket! Take out that meddlesome snake with Fire Blast Muk!” the Executive ordered. Muk combusted the noxious fumes emanating from its body creating a searing flame that formed the shape of a star when it exploded on Steelix’s body. The Iron Snake Pokémon roared as he collapsed to the ground.

“Time to play Walrein!” Eve called wasting no time is summoning her walrus, even before she recalled Steelix. My guess is to avoid getting attacked again mid-switch. “I don’t want you touching that disgusting thing, so use Aurora Beam!” she commanded. Walrein opened his mouth wide and shot a rainbow colored beam at Muk. “Aww. Muk wasn’t the disgusting thing I was talking about.” Eve added with disappointment.

“Your childish games are becoming tiresome!” growled the Rocket Executive. “Trap Walrein with Rock Tomb and then drown it with Toxic!” Muk seeped its hands into the cracks in the floor left by the Earthquakes and then hurled up chunks of the floor the size of boulders. The Ice Breaker Pokémon bellowed in pain as the floor pieces struck him while creating a barricade to slow him down. Muk followed-up with flinging purple sludge at the walrus badly poisoning him.

“If you think you can win with a weak attack like that, you’re dead wrong! Give Muk its Rocks back with your own Rock Tomb!” called Eve. Walrein roared as he slapped the boulders back at Muk with his flippers.

“Avoid the attack with Minimize!” Ariana ordered. The Sludge Pokémon’s body condensed making it smaller and causing Walrein’s attack to miss. “Now use Screech followed by Gunk Shot!” demanded the Executive. Muk made an ear bleeding shriek that caused everyone in the room to hold their ears. It took advantage of the walrus’s temporary vulnerability by shooting him with thick sludge. Walrein winced from pain as he received further damage by the poison slowly taking its course.

“Pay them back with Avalanche and then take a well-deserved Rest Walrein!” my coworker commanded. Walrein bellowed as he created a brief snowstorm that caused huge chunks of ice to fall on the Sludge Pokémon. He then closed his eyes and went to sleep restoring both his stamina and curing the poison.

“You fool! With your Pokémon asleep there is no one left to protect you!” boasted Ariana.

“Us.” Zack pointed out. Ariana shot him a sideways glance and growled with irritation.

“Fine! I will remain civil and only attack the Pokémon then!” she reluctantly agreed. “But I won’t go easy! Use Thunder Bolt Muk!” The Poison-type’s body sparked and crackled with electricity which it then sent at the Ice Breaker Pokémon. Walrein roared in pain but remained asleep.

“Is that it? Come on! You said you were Team Rocket’s top brass! You are such a disappointment.” Eve taunted. “Walrein! Show everyone the kinds of battle dreams you have with Sleep Talk!” The walrus opened his mouth as if yawning only to shoot an Ice Beam out at Muk. “Good boy!” complemented Eve encouragingly.

“Taste Sludge Bomb!” commanded Ariana beginning to sound desperate. Muk threw a large piece of its body at Walrein which exploded on contact. Even then the walrus remained asleep.

“I want to hear more of your dreams Walrein. Could you use another Sleep Talk for us?” requested my teammate. The Ice Breaker Pokémon roared as he charged into Muk with Body Slam. He then opened his golden eyes and stared at his foe waiting for Muk to make its move.

“It’s awake again so poison it again with Poison Gas!” the Rocket Executive ordered. The Sludge Pokémon breathed noxious fumes directly into Walrein’s face from being at such close range causing the walrus to recoil with a painful bellow.

“Get it back with Brine!” commanded Eve. Walrein spewed saltwater all over Muk making it cry out in pain from the salt getting in its wounds. After all this time, I never knew sentient sludge had nerves. Muk then melted into a pile unable to hold itself up anymore. Ariana looked petrified.

“This can’t be happening! I am a Rocket Executive! There is no way I could lose to you!” she panicked.

“That’s what they all say.” I said boredly. “Eve, finish her off now! Prove you’re better than me by being the first to kill a Rocket Executive!” I told her.

“As if! I’m not done playing with her yet.” responded the sociopath sweetly as she recalled Walrein so he wouldn’t suffer from poison. At least she’s compassionate towards her Pokémon.

“Do whatever you want then. Just make it entertaining for your audience too.” I requested.

“Be quiet Boy!” the Executive yelled at me. “This bitch may have bested me in a Pokémon match, but I am still an Executive of Team Rocket and I will not let you tarnish our reputation!”

“I didn’t tarnish anything. You did that to yourself.” said Eve innocently. She followed it up with a sarcastic “Hohoho” sounding like a haughty noble woman’s laugh.

“You be quiet too Tramp!” snapped Ariana.

“And now we’re reduced to name calling? I expected better from a grown woman. I guess maturity is too much to ask from a useless cunt like you.” Eve ridiculed.

“Oooohhhaaaahhh! She used the ‘c’ wooooord!” I said to Axel like an immature 3rd grader.

Please. You and I say worse four letter words all the fucking time.” he responded. “… What she just said is four letters right?

“Indeed it is.” I verified.

“You arrogant, uncouth, pretentious, floozy!” shouted the Rocket in frustration.

“Floozy? Really? You’re really showing your age with that one.” mocked my coworker snidely.

“That’s it!” Ariana roared tackling Eve to the ground.

“And Ariana used Tackle! Didn’t see that one coming Axel!” I commentated.

No we did not Brian! It seems the verbal sparring is over!” the monkey responded.

“Oh hell yeah! Catfight!” Zack cheered with excitement.

“And Eve responds with a mighty bitch slap followed by a tackle of her own! Will we see some real fighting, or will this be some silly wrestling match on the ground?” I announced.

I don’t know Brian. I hope we get a punch or a kick thrown in this battle. Wrestling is fake and boring!

“Ouch! Now there’s hair pulling! Oh! And Eve gives the Rocket a knee to the abs!”

Ariana retaliates with a mighty uppercut knocking Team Neos’s succubus to the ground! That had to hurt!

“Indeed! My jaw hurts just seeing that!”

“Black panties! And they’re lacey too!” Zack called out getting a good look up Eve’s skirt.

The audience really seems to be getting into this!

“That he is Axel!”

“You’re mine now bitch!” shouted Ariana getting on top off Eve and going straight for the jugular.

We should probably step in now.” Axel advised dropping his co-anchor voice.

“Hold on!” I said noticing Eve get her pepper spray out again. She held it in her left hand.

“That won’t work on me!” the Executive said proudly as she slapped the bottle out of Eve’s hand. In her distraction, the Rocket failed to notice Eve throw her right fist up in a punch to the nose. Ariana jumped up screaming while holding her nose.

“I never intended to actually use the pepper spray on you.” revealed my coworker as she got up rubbing her neck with her left hand while shaking her right. “I had a feeling you would stop me, so I only needed it to be a distraction. I told you, I am in complete control of this battle!” she said conceitedly.

Ariana was shaking with rage. As she pulled her hand away, I saw that her nose was badly bruised and swollen meaning it was probably broken. Blood ran from the nostrils down to her upper lip. The Rocket Executive looked absolutely livid when she saw the blood in her palm.

“My face! What did you do to my beautiful face!?” she roared furiously. Her voice was a bit on the nasally side thanks to the damage done.

“I improved it.” Eve taunted. “Honestly, if that is your definition of beauty, you need higher standards. I’ve seen prettier Miltanks.”

“I’LL MURDER YOU!!”

“Not if I do my job. Let’s end this Diva!” Eve said with deadly seriousness that sent chills down my spine. She threw down the Dusk Ball that contained 100% concentrated evil. The Banette materialized with a malevolent hiss. From the wide eyed and fearful look on her face, I think even Ariana sensed the danger she was in.

“Executive Sham!” yelled a male voice. A man with slick black hair wearing glasses, a pair of navy blue slacks, a navy blue shirt and a white lab coat ran into the room from the same entrance Ariana came through. The name on his badge read Gideon Graves. “Team Neos has completely wiped out all of the Grunts in the facility! There’s no one left!”

“What!?” she replied in disbelief.

“One of them also single handedly released all of the captured Pokémon we had in the back! They’re all heading here now! You have to leave here at once Ma’am!” Gideon reported.

“As if we’d ever let that happen!” I rejected. “Let’s get this idiot Axel!”

You got it!” My Infernape and I charged at the foolish scientist with fists ready for pummeling.

“Porygon! Psybeam!” called Gideon. A pink and blue pixilated creature jumped from behind Gideon’s back and shot Axel and me with a rainbow colored beam that knocked both of us on our asses.

“I’ve got this guy! Hydro Pump!” Zack called. Lloyd spewed a powerful blast of water at Porygon.

“Thunder Bolt!” countered the scientist. The Virtual Pokémon discharged a powerful stream of lightning through Lloyd’s attack and back to him.

“Screw the scientist! Get Ariana Diva!” commanded Eve.

“Lock-on to the Banette and use Shadow Ball!” Gideon followed up not missing a beat. Diva turned invisible to make herself harder to track. Porygon launched a sphere of darkness at what seemed like thin air, but a shrill cry echoed through the room as Diva reappeared. The specter looked pretty pissed about it too.

Just then four more Neos entered the room via the same arrows the rest of us used to get in, each one looking as dizzy as I was. Come to think of it, why wasn’t Zack dizzy getting off that thing? I recognized one of the new arrivals as Raiden.

“Yo Master!” I greeted. Looking around, I didn’t see Chane or the other Seateds.

“Ma’am, you really need to get out of here now! I could’ve held off those three, but I can’t hold back seven! Please! Team Rocket needs its four Executives!” begged Gideon.

“Fine!” Ariana conceded unwillingly. “You win this time Neophyts! It doesn't matter what happens to this hideout now. We have much bigger plans. You'll come to appreciate Team Rocket's true power soon enough. Enjoy yourselves while you can…” The Executive finished with a spiteful laugh as she ran down the corridor.

“Stop her!” Raiden ordered. Gideon threw down four more Pokéballs releasing a Voltorb, Electrode, Magnemite, and Magneton.

“Porygon! Protect!” he commanded. A barrier of 0s and 1s formed between us and the Rockets but strangely not his other Pokémon who were in front. “The rest of you! Destroy them with Explosion! Long live Team Rocket!” The four Electric-types glowed white before violently exploding shaking the whole building. Axel tackled me to shield me from the blast while other trainers called for their Pokémon to use Protect.

Even after the quadruple Explosion, the Pokémon kept their barriers up in case of falling debris or surprise attacks. The entire room was filled with black smoke so no one could see anything. It took a few moments until we could actually see again. The room was completely dark from all the lights being destroyed, wires and broken tiles hung from the ceiling, there was a small crater in the floor, there was some damage to the walls, and the exit Ariana escaped from was completely sealed by debris. Gideon was nowhere to be seen either.

“You three.” Raiden said addressing me, Eve, and Zack. “Did I hear correctly? Was that woman was a Team Rocket Executive?”

“She was. I was the one who battled her, but I failed to finish her.” Eve said bitterly.

“Why did you two not help her?” he asked me and Zack next.

“They weren’t in the room.” Eve interjected before we could say anything. “I was the only one to encounter her so I took her on by myself. These two came in near the end of the fight shortly before you arrived.”

“Eve was about to have Diva land the finishing blow but then the scientist showed up. He caught the three of us off guard with his Porygon.” I added. I don’t know why Eve was covering for us, but I was at least going to take some of the responsibility for letting Ariana get away.

“Well we have let Executives slip away in the past due to the intensity of the situation we were in. The fact that you defeated her this time means that we have the chance to defeat her again.” Raiden said in understanding. “What matters most right now is that we have successfully captured their base. Team Rocket has nowhere left in the Sevii Islands to run. Our next major objective is to salvage one of the computers in this warehouse in order to find out where the Aqua and Galactic Grunts are hiding so that we can purge these islands once and for all. With any luck we will also gain insight into any objectives Team Triad had here in the Sevii Islands or on the Kanto or Johto mainlands. It would also be helpful if we could gain insight as to where more of Team Rocket’s headquarters are located.” He paused for a moment to think. “For now I would like to get those booby-traps shut down so that I can confer with the other Seated Officers on what our next move should be.”
------

The other thirteen members that were watching John and Clara were called to help the rest of us clean up the new Team Neos Warehouse. Those two were left alone to do whatever they wanted as long as they did not interfere with us. As I found out during the cleanup, the “lone Neos” who freed all of the captured Pokémon was none other than Chane. She told me how heartbroken seeing all of those imprisoned Pokémon made her so she busted them out of their cages and led them out of the warehouse like the badass she is.

The best part about the cleanup was we found a working computer! Soon we would know all of Team Rocket’s secrets! Once we know where the base used by Team Aqua and Team Galactic is we can get rid of them too. It shouldn’t take much longer to completely liberate the Sevii Islands!
******************

To be honest with all of you, this was actually going to be a chapter before this one with this as the last chapter of the Sevii Arc, but I noticed a line Ariana says in HGSS is "It doesn't matter what happens to this hideout now. We have much bigger plans. You'll come to appreciate Team Rocket's true power soon enough. Enjoy yourselves while you can…" After reading that, I just had to throw it in and switch the original order of the chapters. So what are these big plans? Wait and see my loyal readers! ~evil~
 
Psycho Monkey said:
“Oooohhhaaaahhh! She used the ‘c’ wooooord!” I said to Axel like an immature 3rd grader.

Please. You and I say worse four letter words all the fucking time.” he responded. “… What she just said is four letters right?
I love this story.
 
This was just hilarious. Catfight cliches, taunting of oneself, and acknowledgements of the size differences in Pokemon? This certainly was an amusing chapter!
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
*Grovels before his fanbase with manly tears in his eyes* I am so sorry that there have been no new chapters in a year! ;_; Regrettably it seems I have been on a downward spiral since the fic got started. 2009 had 24 chapters, 2010 had 8, 2011 and 2012 both had 3, and 2013 only had one. ONE! That is inexcusable! >=O

As tonight is the real fifth year anniversary of Rise of Team Neos (I say real because the fic really was started on January 8th, I have just been erroneously celebrating the anniversary on Jan 9th since the server crash), I give you the first of many new chapters for 2014. That's right! This is Chapter 40, I will have Chapter 50 posted before December 31, 2014 for sure!

"Oh sure Psycho Monkey, that's what you say every year!" you say. This time I mean it! @Carmen Lopez and I are having a friendly competition on who can finish their respective fic first by the end of this year and I'm a competitive creature! D:< Well in my case it's finish Volume 1 because Goat knows I have two more Volumes to go after this one. Who knew this would end up becoming my life's work? @.@

Anyway, because this is my topic and I'm allowed to double post, I'm going to make another post for the new chapter to keep it separated from my ramblings. ^^;
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Chapter 40: Hellfire Peak

It was a beautiful spring morning; the sun was shining, there was a cool clean breeze, and the scenery around Five Isle Meadow was green and beautiful. That was why I decided that my Pokémon and I were going to eat our breakfast outside this morning. The seven of us sat around a blanket having ourselves a wonderful picnic. And the day would only get better from here!

After booting out Team Rocket, we spent the rest of yesterday renovating the Warehouse and looking for clues as to where Aqua and Galactic are hiding. And we succeeded! Teams Aqua and Galactic were occupying a mansion north of the island in an area known by the locals as Resort Gorgeous. We would make our raid of the mansion first thing after breakfast.

As we finished our meal and started packing everything up, we were joined by Zack and Raiden. Since we had ransacked an enemy base, the Seateds decided it would be prudent to have two sentinels guarding the perimeter at all times just in case of retaliation. They had the morning shift.

“Morning gentlemen!” I greeted cheerfully. “How goes the lookout?”

“It goes.” Zack shrugged. By his and Lloyd’s expressions I could tell it was as boring as I thought it would be. While I hadn’t had my turn yet, I dreaded the time when I would. Hopefully we can eliminate all of Team Triad before that time comes.

“Are you ready for today?” Raiden asked me.

“Who are you talking to again?” I replied sarcastically. Before Raiden could say anything else to me his phone started ringing. At last! Ass whooping time!

“Third Seat Arka speaking.” he answered professionally. “What kind of problem?” he asked with only slight concern. After a long pause of what must have been whoever was on the other line explaining the problem, Raiden’s eyes got wide with dread and his jaw dropped slightly. “…What?” he said in almost a whisper. Seeing my Master with such an expression made me incredibly nervous. Any news that could break Raiden’s composure like that was obviously very bad.

“And… you are sure about that?” he questioned trying to sound calm. During the pause he closed his eyes, breathed deeply, and clenched his other hand into a tight fist. “Have you informed First Seat Feng and Second Seat Eirwyn yet? [pause] Good. If your information is correct then we do not have a moment to lose!” he said before hanging up.

“Master Raiden?” I asked nervously.

“Zack! Do you still have your Capture Styler from when you were a Ranger?” he inquired urgently.

“Yeah why?” replied Zack warily.

“Get it now! Bring it with you! We are probably going to need it for this mission.” he requested.

“What is going on Master?” I demanded in frustration. Raiden sighed as he ran his hand through his hair.

“We have made Team Triad very desperate. They are going after a Legendary Pokémon.” Raiden informed glumly.

“What?” The word just fell out of my mouth. No tone, just the sound of that single syllable.

Shit.” Axel said in the same deadpan tone.

“Get ready to leave. Everything will be explained on the way.”
-----------------

Within moments all 25 of us were in the air flying in the direction of Knot Island. According to the data found on Team Rocket’s computer, they had been tracking the migration patterns of the Legendary Bird of Fire, Moltres. The Victory Road of Kanto, Mt. Silver in Johto, occasionally Sinnoh after a particularly harsh winter, and Mt. Ember in the Sevii Islands were all known Moltres nests. If they got ahold of a Legendary Pokémon then our lives were about to become a living hell. Even if Moltres wasn’t one of the powerhouses like Lugia, it would still take a considerable effort on our part to subdue it. This must be what Ariana meant when she said Team Rocket had bigger plans. I thought it was just empty boasting at the time. What a fool I was.

“Zack. How does your Styler work anyway?” I asked him. He tightened his grip on the device in his hand. It was black on bottom, red on top, and had a yellow antenna. In a white circle on the top was what looked like a blue gem. I can only guess that was the Ranger emblem.

“Basically it conveys feelings of friendship to whatever Pokémon I use it on to show them I’m not a threat and hopefully convince them to fight on our side.” he explained. “Still, I am nervous. I’ve never used my Styler on a Legendary before. Never seen one either to be honest.”

“Don’t worry. We’ve got your back.” I reassured.

“Yeah. Besides, I’ve wrangled a Tyranitar before. How much harder could Moltres be?” said Zack confidently.

“Why are we getting so worked up over them catching Moltres anyway? I mean, yeah it’s Legendary, but it’s still a Flying-type and Third Seat Arka uses exclusively Electric-types right?” someone asked.

“You dumbass! Do you really think it will be that easy?” shouted Feng angrily.

“Um… yes?” he said meekly.

“Whether or not we can defeat Moltres once captured by Team Triad is not the issue.” Raiden said. “The fact that they are bold enough to go after a Legendary in the first place is why it is absolutely critical we stop them.”

“He’s right.” added Skylar. “Say we do nothing and Team Triad catches Moltres. Sure our combined efforts could defeat it, but now our enemies are emboldened. They know they can catch Legendaries. Who’s next? Articuno? Zapdos? Or maybe they decide they want bigger prey. How would you like to tangle with a Latios? Or Regigigas? The point is we need to stop them at all costs so they realize that they can’t get away with this!”

That shut the idiot up. A little while later Mt. Ember finally came into view. Even though it was midmorning, the sky around the mountain was bright orange, contrasting greatly with the blue sky around it. As we got closer to the mountain, we could hear the angry cries of a large bird along with the sound of Pokémon attacks.

“We’re too late!” Raiden yelled. “Zack! When we land, you know what to do. Brian, Eve, Chane! Cover him! The rest of you, wipe out Team Triad!” he commanded.

“And who gave you permission to give orders Arka?” demanded Feng irritably.

“This isn’t the time to argue Kenny! We have more important things to worry about!” chastised Skylar. He growled bitterly in response, probably because he knew she was right. He then turned to look at me, Zack, and Axel riding Aerodactyl.

“You there! You’re name’s Kaguya right?”

“Yes sir.” Zack answered.

“We’re counting on you. Don’t fuck up.” Feng told him in a subdued tone before pulling ahead on his Skarmory.

Now that Mt. Ember was in full clear view I saw I tall bird covered in flames. The flames on its body were small enough that its yellow feathers could be seen while the flames on its wings, head, and tail were as intense as Axel’s flame. Maybe even more so. Surrounding Moltres were dozens of Rocket, Aqua, and Galactic Grunts. Between the grunts and the bird were a wide assortment of Pokémon of all different types and species. Each one was launching attacks at the Legendary Bird on the command of its master.

Ass whoopin’ time!” yelled Axel pounding his fists together. All of our flyers dove onto the mountain causing the monkey to grab me for dear life.

“Aerodactyl! Steer us towards Moltres!” I commanded. The King of the Skies let out an eager screech as he broke away from the rest of the team. “Ready Zack?” I asked.

“You bet!” he said holding Lloyd’s Pokéball in one hand and the Capture Styler in the other. Aerodactyl landed between Moltres and its assailants, intimidating them with a loud shriek.

“Team Neos?! Here!? How did they know?” cried a Rocket.

“They probably found out after taking your base!” yelled a Galactic accusingly. Jace landed beside my Fossil Pokémon unloading Chane and Eve.

Out of the corners of my eyes I saw Feng unleash Magmortar, Metang, Tauros, Yanmega, and Machamp to join his Skarmory. Not just that, but he also took out his scythe, Reaper. Skylar sent out Jynx, Mismagius, Crobat, Lapras, and Persian along with her Altaria. She too felt it necessary to get out her weapons, the duel wave swords Ice Fangs. Raiden joined his cohorts with his six Electric-types and his spear, Raikou, which was charged with electricity thanks to one of his Pokémon.

“Ready ladies?” I asked with a wild grin while holding my four remaining Pokéballs. There was no way I was going to let my superiors show us up! The three of us sent out all of our Pokémon forming a barrier around Zack, Lloyd, and Moltres. Our job was merely to keep them from getting attacked and lending Zack any assistance he needed while everyone else kept Triad away from us.

“Moltres! We’re here to help you, so please lend us your power!” requested Zack launching the Capture Disc. He made jerking movements with his arm which in turn caused the disc to circle Moltres leaving a beam like trail of blue light behind it. The Legendary Bird followed the beam trail with its eyes before getting fed up by it and blowing a tongue of fire at it. Without a word from Zack, Lloyd spewed Hydro Pump at the Flamethrower turning both attacks to steam.

“We can’t let the beams break!” Zack told us without turning away from target. “Weaken Moltres’s fire with Water Sport!” The Golduck did as requested by spraying a light stream of water over himself and the area surrounding Moltres. A few sprits splashed up on the Flame Pokémon causing it to shriek in annoyance.

“You can do it Zack!” encouraged Chane.

“Yeah, no problem!” he said confidently. “Moltres! Please cooperate!”

I noticed two Rockets, an Aqua, and a Galactic break from the first encirclement to charge us head on. The first Rocket sent out an Absol and a Hitmontop, the second a Kangaskhan, a Mismagius, and a Stantler, the Aqua unleashed Gyarados and Lanturn, and the Galactic sent out two Skuntank.

“Let’s get these Neos n00bs!” declared the Galactic foolishly.

“Whatever happened to Neophyte?” I asked rhetorically with a shrug.

“These guys are complete idiots! We have twice as many Pokémon as they do!” Eve chided. She then got a wide malevolent smile. “Are those white barbels I see on that Gyarados? Luxray dear!” she practically sang in excitement. Luxray crouched low giving the Atrocious Pokémon a murderous glare while growling. She then pounced and bit at the leviathan with Thunder Fang.

“Lanturn! Git dat thing offa Gyarados wit Bubble Beam!” called the Aqua. Eve yawned mockingly.

“Roserade, pop those bubbles with Magical Leaf.” she said boredly. The Bouquet Pokémon shot a flurry of rainbow colored leaves from her flowered hands destroying most of the bubbles leaving the remainder as merely a harmless nuisance to Luxray.

“Axel! Double Kick Kangaskhan! Riolu! Use Force Palm on Stantler! Piloswine! Use Earth Power on one of the Skuntanks!” I commanded.

“I’ll help too! Please use Silver Wind on Absol Celia! Use Wing Attack on Hitmontop please, Jace!” Chane beseeched. Our Pokémon landed their respective attacks while our enemies retaliated with their own. If we kept this up, it would just be a normal Pokémon battle where we each fought one-on-one with our own respective opponents. I was done playing fair. Eve said it herself, we have twice the number of Pokémon they do. I wasn’t going to let that advantage go to waste!

“Aerodactyl! Snorlax! Beldum! Get in there and help your comrades! Use Wing Attack on Stantler, Body Slam Kangaskhan, and attack Skuntank with Iron Head!” I commanded my remaining Pokémon. I too jumped in the fray and swung a right hook at the nearest Rocket. I promised Raiden that I wouldn’t use my Dragon-Forme anymore, but even as a human I still pack a powerful punch!

“Why you bastard!” yelled the Rocket grabbing me by the shirt collar and punching me in the face. I gave him an evil grin before head-butting him and kneeing him in the stomach. A Pokémon is only as strong as its Trainer after all. I was done standing back idly and letting them do all the work.

Yeah! Go Brian!” Axel cheered on.

“You bitches gonna follow his example?” I heard the Aqua accuse.

“Are you kidding me? I’ll break a nail.” Eve said pompously. I rolled my eyes. That’s not how it went yesterday when she got in a fight with Ariana. “And if I sent in all of my Pokémon at once, that will be less time I have to play.”

“Play wit dis den! Gyarados! Blast dat bitch wit Hydro Pump!” commanded the Aqua. The Atrocious Pokémon gushed out a massive deluge of water from her mouth but missed Eve completely thanks to Steelix ramming her jaw with his Iron Head. Instead the Hydro Pump splashed all over Moltres. The Legendary Bird gave a furious screech while spreading its wings wide, then exhaled a breath hotter than the most scorching summer days in Hoenn. The power of Moltres’s Heat Wave was enough to burn away the five loops Zack had made around it. Everyone in the area had lifted their arms or lowered their heads to block the intense heat of the attack.

“Guys! Keep the battle contained! Do not let them get near Moltres!” Zack snapped at us. It was strange hearing someone as carefree as Zack sounding so tense but I guess trying the capture a Legendary was more stressful than we realized.

“You really should have made sure you subdued all of my Pokémon before coming after me Neophyte.” taunted the Rocket I had been pounding on. Before I could even respond to his boast, I was enveloped by incorporeal ectoplasm. Shit! I hadn’t gone after his Mismagius! I struggled to free myself, but it was no use! “Throw him off the mountain!” the Rocket ordered with an evil smirk before wiping blood off the side of his lip.

“BRIAN!” Chane screamed.

No you don’t!” yelled Axel running towards the Ghost-type with his feet and fists blazing with fire. Out of nowhere, he was tackled to the ground by the Galactic’s other Skuntank. Yet another Pokémon we weren’t engaging.

“Get off!” I demanded still struggling to break free of the witch’s grip. Just before we reached the edge of the cliff, the Magical Pokémon’s expression turned to one of pain as an explosion of darkness erupted from its back. It looked as if it had been struck by Shadow Ball. The attack had weakened Mismagius’s grip on me enough that I was dropped to the ground no worse for wear.

“You’re ok!” Chane cried with relief.

“Of course I am. It takes more than that to kill me.” I boasted giving her a thumbs up. Another Shadow Ball struck my would-be assassin causing it to faint. It was then I noticed the attacks were being launched by Diva.

“Can I assume you’re the one who saved me Eve?” I asked getting to my feet.

“At the cost of all of the fun I could have had with that Mismagius, yes.” she responded.

“Thank you. But this still doesn’t make up for almost killing me!” I told her straightforwardly.

“Geez. And I thought Diva held grudges.” said Eve jokingly.

“Guys! Above me!” Zack shouted desperately. I looked up at the sky to see a Gliscor zipping in fast heading directly for Moltres. “Blast it out of the air with Ice Beam!” he commanded Lloyd. The Golduck shot off rays of frozen water but the Fang Scorpion Pokémon was moving too fast and too close to Moltres. I could tell Lloyd was intentionally trying to miss the Legendary.

“Aerodactyl! Get it! Kill it if you must!” I commanded quickly. “Aerodactyl?” I called again when I didn’t get a response the first time. I turned to my Pokémon only to see him sleeping. That damn Stantler must have used Hypnosis! Why now of all times!?

“Jace! Please go after that Gliscor!” Chane called. The Pidgeot knocked out his Hitmontop foe with one final Wing Attack before taking flight after the enemy Pokémon. As the Gliscor continued to maneuver through the sky I could see a Rocket riding on its back.

“Hahaha!” laughed the other Rocket who I had not been thrashing. “It doesn’t matter if you out number us now! That’s one of the best Pokémon Catchers in Team Rocket! She’s going in for Moltres and you won’t stop her!” I glared threateningly at the Rocket. We would not lose! Not to them!

“Jace! You have to keep Gliscor and its Trainer away from Moltres! I know you can do it!” Chane encouraged her Pokémon.

“I don’t think so! I always keep a spare, n00b!” bragged the Galactic throwing another Pokéball. Emerging was a bird with a robust build, long sharp talons, dark grey feathers covering most of its body, and a long red fringe hanging over its face. “Staraptor! Go Take Down that Pidgeot!” The raptor shrieked loudly as it took off with incredible speed to attack Jace.

“Bite it with Thunder Fang Steelix darling!” called Eve. Steelix gave a deep roar as electricity started crackling around his maw. Using his size to his advantage, the Iron Snake Pokémon lunged at Staraptor to snatch it out of the sky.

“Agility and Double Team Staraptor!” yelled the Galactic. Staraptor sped up leaving a trail of after images in its wake. Steelix chomped on one of the fakes creating a metal pang with a thunderous echo as his jaws snapped shut. The brute let out an angry roar that his opponent had gotten away from him. Staraptor zoomed into Jace with such speed that both birds let out painful cries. The attack also had the effect of knocking the Pidgeot away from Gliscor as he was now caught in an aerial battle with the Predator Pokémon.

“Axel! Riolu! Switch targets! Axel! Finish off Stantler! I’m waking up Aerodactyl!” I shouted giving my orders.

You got it!” complied my monkey. He Blaze Kicked Skuntank in the face before back-flipping away from it. “Tag in Rio!” he said slapping the Emanation Pokémon’s hand. Riolu then dashed away from Stantler to engage Skuntank. The Infernape then started to bash the deer with Close Combat.

“Aerodactyl! Who the hell gave you permission to sleep at a time like this!?” I yelled at the Fossil Pokémon giving him the hardest punch I could muster to his skull. It probably hurt my knuckles more than it hurt him. It did do the trick though as Aerodactyl began to open his eyes.

“Morning sleepyhead! We have a Gliscor to kill!” I told him matter-of-factly. Aerodactyl was more than happy to oblige. He gleefully flew off after his next meal.

“NO!” I heard Zack scream! I turned around just in time to watch Gliscor do a midair corkscrew and strike Moltres with Aerial Ace causing Moltres scream in anger. The Flame Pokémon spread its wings wide then thrust them forward creating gale force winds that once again dissolved Zack’s rings while also blowing away Gliscor and its Trainer. The Rocket landed on the ground with a loud thud while the Fang Scorpion was thrown further away. Moltres then reared back its head with flames appearing around the sides of its beak.

“Moltres don’t do it!” I screamed in horror knowing what was about to happen. Moltres let loose a raging Flamethrower that engulfed the Rocket. She screamed in agony as her flesh was ignited by the intense flames.

“Stop it…” I said distantly. It was the Rocket screaming but it was a different voice I heard. The Rocket stumbled aimlessly towards me as her sense of reason was lost to the grip of imminent death.

“Stop it!” I yelled as the putrid scent of burning human flesh entered my nose once again. The Rocket finally collapse leaving her corpse to burn away to ash. Only it wasn’t the Rocket I saw!

“STOP IIIIIIITTTTT!!!” I screamed. The memories of that horrible day on the Whirl Islands were hitting me with full force. Madison’s screams as she was burned alive. The grotesque remains of her charred corpse. The stolen life of a wonderful sixteen-year-old girl, who I loved like a little sister, who I failed to protect!

I fell to my knees and gripped the sides of my head in my hands. It was my fault! I was supposed to look out for her! If I hadn’t gone for that walk, if I had stayed with her, I could have saved her! She’d still be alive! I was more than capable of beating those damn Rockets! Madison… I’m sorry…

“It’s ok!” Chane said crouching down and embracing me. “It’s ok.” she said gently trying to comfort me. I didn’t respond. Madison’s death was weighing so heavily on me that I felt like I was kneeling outside that cave watching her burn all over again. “Come on! Snap out of it! We need you! Your Pokémon need you! Zack needs you! I need you…” she told me hugging me closer and laying her head on top of mine. Madison needed me too but I still let her die. Chane then let me go and slapped me. I blinked in shock. She really did just slap me!

“Stand up, be strong! Remember those words? They’re your own! They’ve given me confidence to fight even the most terrifying battles!” Chane told me as she started to tear up. “Or rather you’re the one who has inspired me. If you can’t even follow your own advice then you’re just a hypocrite and a liar! And then what’s left for me? I’ve followed your example by always believing in myself and my Pokémon. You may have done so many unspeakably cruel things to Team Rocket, but you’ve always shown me nothing but kindness. Don’t make me one of your victims too.” she pleaded with me. Chane then yelped and fell into me.

“Chane?” I asked in a whisper.

“One down, two to go!” bragged the Rocket I had been fighting earlier. In his right hand was a large rock that he must have used to hit Chane!

“Hurt… her…” I mumbled. Madison. Chane. “You hurt her!” I said louder. Team Rocket killed Madison! Team Rocket hit Chane! “Do not hurt her!” I roared furiously jumping to my feet. Sorry Raiden, but the Dragon was awakened by vengeance! It is the manifestation of my love, my anger, and all of my sorrow!

“What the hell!?” the Rocket yelled. He swung at me with the rock but I caught his wrist in my right hand and thrust my left palm into his elbow causing it to shatter and his arm to bend the opposite way it was supposed to. The rock dropped to the ground as Rocket screamed in agony from the destruction of his elbow. This was familiar. Yes. I killed one of the Rockets on the Whirl Islands just like this! I picked up the rock and bashed in his face with it. The Rocket staggered back screaming in pain holding his bloodied face. Come to think of it, he wanted to throw me off the cliff earlier, didn’t he? I grabbed his shirt collar and lifted him up.

“No please!” whimpered the Rocket. And how many people begged for their lives at your mercy? I threw him but unfortunately he didn’t quite make it to the edge. I let out a rage filled war cry as I gathered draconic energy into my right hand. While the Rocket was still airborne I blasted him with Dragon Pulse. I gathered more energy into my left hand and blasted him again. Right! Left! Right! Left! I aerially juggled the Rocket until his now mutilated corpse was finally flung over the edge.

I turned to the other Rocket with a wide malevolent grin. The Aqua and Galactic were also cowering at the display of my power. They would have their turn soon enough.

“Enough!” I felt someone throw themself into me from behind. “I’m alright. You can stop now.” Chane said walking around to my front. “See? I’m fine. It’s just a little bump.” she consoled pulling her hood back. On the right side of her forehead was a nasty looking cut that was still bleeding. Something I wouldn’t call a bump. “You don’t need to use your Dragon-Forme just for my sake!”

“For your sake? This isn’t just about you Chane! This is for everyone! All of the people who have suffered because of Team Rocket. The ones who were hurt. Who were killed! I destroy Team Rocket for the sins they’ve committed in the past and to stop them from ruining anymore lives!”

Hey Brian!” Axel called putting a hand on my shoulder. I turned to him only to get punched in the face by his free hand! That damned simian bastard! He is so getting an ass whoopin’ for that! “I miss her too.” he said before I could retaliate against him.“But Madison would have wanted her Onii-chan looking out for her, not some wild monster. Even on that day you were still the one calling the shots. Master Raiden told you, didn’t he? Control the Dragon, don’t let it control you!

“Axel.” I sighed quietly. I then punched him in the face. “Stop being smarter than me.”

Eh… No problem.” he grunted holding his nose and glaring at me. I knew that look. He was challenging me. When everything was done here, we’d be beating the crap out of each other.

“I’m so glad you’re back to your senses.” Chane sobbed in tears.

“Thing is, we’re not done here yet.” I pointed out bitterly. However, when I looked around the battlefield all that were left were the three Grunts. Once Gliscor had been dealt with by Moltres, Aerodactyl had gone to assist Jace with Staraptor, my other Pokémon had finished off their respective targets, Eve had dealt with the Aqua, and Celia had apparently fainted the Absol while I was having war flashbacks. The rest of our unit was successfully holding off the remaining members of Team Triad. At least the ones who weren’t staring in my direction.

“What? You never seen someone have a mental break down before?! Finish off those damned Triads!” I yelled at them. I turned to Chane with a despondent look on my face. “Master Raiden’s going to kill me for this isn’t he?” I asked her quietly.

“Um…” she stammered shifting her eyes side to side trying to come up with an answer.

Just let him try!” Axel promised punching his fists together.

“Well I guess before I get punished we should finish off those three.” I said looking over at the Grunts. “Piloswine! Kill them with Ice Shard!” I commanded nonchalantly with a wave of my arm. My wooly boar grunted as he exhaled a cold wind that rapidly froze the water vapors in the air into fast-flying sharp fragments of ice that impaled our foes like knives before they even realized what hit them.

All of a sudden, Riolu started looking apprehensive. He turned to the edge of the mountain and started barking. His cries were answered by a loud humming sound.

“What now?” I asked exasperatedly. I got my response in the form of a black helicopter marked with a red ‘R’ rising up the mountain. The remaining Triads began cheering at the sight of the aircraft. The side door opened revealing even more Rockets, Aqua, and Galactics!

“Great. Just what we needed. Reinforcements.” Eve snarked.

“Aerodactyl! Snorlax! Blow those bastards out of the air with Hyper Beam!” I commanded. Like hell I was going to let them interrupt Zack! Both of my Pokémon opened their mouths wide launching powerful energy blasts at the helicopter. Unfortunately, the pilot was too good and was able to pull up and to the left just enough to avoid both beams. I snarled furiously at them. It would still be another few minutes before my Pokémon could recharge.

“Keep them occupied just a little bit longer!” requested Zack.

“Piloswine! Try knocking them out of the sky with Blizzard!” I called.

“You too Walrein!” added Eve sweetly. Our two Ice-types let loose a combined winter storm that would probably make Articuno jealous. I tightly hugged myself to conserve as much of my body heat as I could in light of our bone chilling combo attack. The helicopter tried to evade us but two Blizzards at once made it very difficult. Chunks of ice banged against the cockpit, tail, and blades causing the helicopter to swerve about. I watched it intently just waiting for it to crash!

“Got it!” shouted Zack exuberantly. I turned towards him to see Moltres glowing white. The glow only lasted for a second and when it faded the Legendary Bird spread its wings wide giving a loud cry. It certainly looked calmer than it was moments ago.

“Moltres, we’re here to help you! Please lend us your power in getting rid of Team Triad!” the ex-Ranger beseeched. The Flame Pokémon lowered its body as if inviting Zack and Lloyd to ride it. “Thank you.” said Zack graciously taking the bird’s offer.

“Zack! Do what you need to do, but don’t set them on fire. I don’t know if my remaining sanity can take it.” I requested.

“You got it! That’s not really my style anyway.” he responded with a thumbs-up. With a mighty flap Moltres took to the sky. As promised, the Legendary Bird only attacked with its non-Fire-type moves. It swiped its wings sending blades of air at our foes slicing them with Air Slashes. Moltres slammed its talons into the rock face crushing them with Ancient Power. The Legendary Bird took on an ominous glow before dive bombing its assailants with Sky Attack knocking several off the mountain. The Flame Pokémon turned its attention to the helicopter and flapped its powerful wings to whip up another Hurricane.

“We can’t win! Retreat!” I heard someone shout. I couldn’t tell which team the voice came from but it was obvious that Team Triad realized they were out matched. We’d won!

“Retreating isn’t an option for you I’m afraid!” Skylar denied. “Kill them with Dragon Breath Altaria!” The Humming Pokémon shot a powerful blast of draconic energy at the fleeing enemies. My throat hurt just remembering the time I tried and failed to use Dragon Breath myself.

“Please! We surrender!” a Galactic begged.

“You were planning on capturing Moltres! If we hadn’t intervened you would have succeeded. Would you have shown us mercy?” demanded Feng angrily.

“Yes?” responded the Galactic sounding unsure.

“Well too bad for you, Team Neos isn’t as forgiving!” With a swing of Reaper, the Galactic was cleaved in two. “Tauros! Machamp! Magmortar! Rock Slide!” he ordered. His three Pokémon slammed the ground in front of them sending cracks tearing through the ground under the rest of Team Triad. The ground gave way sending our remaining foes falling down the mountain in an avalanche. If there were survivors they’d probably be too battered and broken from getting crushed by rocks to make it back to civilization on their own.

“Sorry guys.” Zack apologized as Moltres landed. “The helicopter got away. Given everything we threw at it, that must have been one skilled pilot!” I growled in disappointment. They should have been killed, but I guess it couldn’t be helped. In any case, if those reinforcements were from Resort Gorgeous we’d simply kill them tomorrow. The Legendary Bird crouched again allowing Zack and Lloyd to dismount.

“Thank you Moltres. I’m glad we were able to save you.” said Zack petting the Flame Pokémon’s face. Like most Fire-types, it was obvious that Moltres could control the temperature of its flames. “Well, you’re free to go now!” he said cheerfully. The Legendary Bird gave a loud shriek before flapping back into the sky.

I heard the sound of something whizzing through the air before a round sphere struck Moltres. It cried out as its body turned into a red light and was sucked into the capsule. When the ball fell to the ground I realized from its black top marked with a yellow ‘H’ that it was an Ultra Ball. The Ultra Ball shook violently as Moltres tried breaking free, but it was too tired out from the day’s battle. The Ultra Ball locked signifying that Moltres now had a new Trainer.

“That… wasn’t… supposed… to happen…” Zack stammered in shock with a look of disbelief on his face.

“Who threw that!?” demanded Raiden angrily.

“I did. What of it?” Feng confessed stepping forward. “Team Triad tried capturing Moltres so that they could use it against us. And you were just going to let it go? That’s bullshit!” he berated walking to the Ultra Ball that now contained the Legendary Bird. He picked it up in his right hand and held it with his arm stretched forward. “If we let this thing roam free, what’s to stop them from trying to capture it again? It’s ours now! We can use it against them! This will be our new weapon to use in our war with Team Triad!”

“Y-you’re wrong!” Chane yelled. “P-Pokémon aren’t w-weapons! Th-they’re our f-friends!”

“Ridiculous!” Feng scoffed.

“You had no right Feng! Moltres was exhausted, it could not defend itself from your cheap shot!” Raiden reprimanded.

“Ha! You would have done the same if it were Zapdos we were involved with!” Feng said superiorly. Raiden clenched his fists tightly. Feng obviously struck a nerve with him.

“I will not deny that I would like to catch Zapdos, however, I will only do battle with it in a fair fight where both of us are at full strength. That way, when I catch it, I would have earned its respect by defeating it. I would never try and catch it while it is wounded or weakened from a battle like what happened today!”

“Heh! You’re so weak it’s disgusting Arka!” the First Seat ridiculed. “In fact, your entire squad are a bunch of softies.”

“Only my sexy body is soft.” Eve cut in while rubbing her cleavage seductively. Feng walked over to me and stared into my eyes. It was a good thing I had reverted back to Human-forme.

“Except this one. Just what the hell are you? Don’t think I didn’t see that display of yours.” he questioned.

“I’m a patchwork crazy Matryoshka.” I answered sarcastically keeping a straight face. Feng in turned glared at me in annoyance. Technically I was telling the truth. My genes could only have been put together by a mad scientist, my sanity is questionable on a good day, and I have two layers of Formes.

“You jackass! You should show more respect to your superiors!” he chastised. Feng looked like he wanted to hit me. I stared back defiantly just daring him to.

“That’s enough Kenny!” Skylar interjected puting a hand on his shoulder. “It’s been a long day for everyone. Ember Spa is just at the foot of the mountain so why don’t we all go for some rest and relaxation?” she suggested with a smile.

“Fine.” he growled. Then he got a wide smirk. “After all, I do deserve some kind of a reward for my accomplishment today.” he said looking at Moltres’s Ultra Ball. He was clearly only doing it to screw with Raiden and Zack. As the rest of our unit boarded their Flyers to head down the mountain, Skylar came back to us.

“Zack Kaguya. Great job today. Keep up the good work.” she complemented with a smile.

“Ummm… Thanks.” he said still sounding down about letting Moltres get captured.

“Hey now, I told you I only date strong Trainers. Look sharp!” added Skylar with a wink. That seemed to get his attention.

“Second Seat Eirwyn, this is highly inappropriate.” Raiden objected.

“No need to be so formal Raiden. All of you are free to call me Skylar. I’m not as much a stickler for rank as Kenny.” Raiden could only sigh at how seamlessly she brushed him off.

“Well then Skylar, you better watch me when we take on Resort Gorgeous tomorrow then!” he told her confidently. Lloyd quacked happily and gave his partner a proud slap on the back.

“That’s the spirit! See you guys at the spa!” she said hopping on her Altaria and diving off the mountain.

“Brian.” Raiden said in a measured tone. Oh crap. Here it comes. I reflexively gulped nervously.

I’ve got your back!” Axel reassured.

“What the hell happened today?” he demanded while maintaining the same tone as before.

“That happened.” I said pointing over to the charred remains of the Rocket. I could barely look at it without thinking of Madison. I tightly closed my eyes trying to push the memories away for now.

“It was a Rocket though. I’ve seen you do plenty of nasty things to them. What made this one different?” asked Eve callously.

“It’s because of all the creative ways I’ve killed Rockets, have you ever heard me order Axel to burn them alive? Not once! It is by far the absolute worst way to die. It is the one line I will never cross! I would rather tear a person apart with my bare hands then go through that.” I admit.

“You went berserk because you watched a Rocket get immolated? What are you not telling us?” Raiden questioned. Heh. So he saw right through me and realized there was more to the story.

“With all due respect Master Raiden, do not ask me that. If you ask me, I will tell you, but do not ask me.” I begged. Reliving that was enough for one day. If I had to go over those events one more time, I’d probably break.

“Very well.” Raiden said backing off. He must have realized it was something I couldn’t really go into. “However, this is not an order, but I implore you to get a psych evaluation in the near future. This is the second time you have lost control of your Dragon-Forme resulting in self-destructive behavior. What is worse is that Feng now knows about you. Get it together!”

“Sorry.” I apologized rubbing my eyes. I hadn’t realized how tired I was. That was when I felt something warm and sticky on the sides of my head. I looked at my hand to see my fingers coated in blood. “Am I ok?” I asked pulling back my hood. By everyone’s shocked reactions I already knew my answer.

Nope. Not at all.” Axel said straight forwardly.

“Dude, I think you were Dragon Clawing yourself.” Zack analyzed. It must have been when I was gripping my head when I had those flashbacks. Blood loss would also explain my sudden fatigue.

“That settles it. You and Chane are coming back to the Warehouse to get your wounds treated. Zack and Eve, you two are welcome to join the others at Ember Spa if you desire.” instructed Raiden.

“Think I’ll pass.” said Zack dejectedly. “While I would love to flirt and check out the ladies, I really don’t want to deal with Feng anymore today.”

“Oh so I’m the odd one out? You’re going to make me out to be the bad girl if I go down there on my own?” Eve complained.

“Not at all. It is your choice if you want to go with us or stay with them. Whatever choice you make is your own.” Raiden clarified. Eve only crossed her arms and shook her head.

“Everyone else has already left and you guys are my ride. If I decided to go, I’d have a long trip down the mountain all by my little lonesome. I’ll go back with you.” she said in defeat.
----------------------

When we returned to the Warehouse it was only mid afternoon but we spent the entire day resting and recuperating from the morning’s mission.

It was important that we did because the following morning we attacked Resort Gorgeous before dawn and completely annihilated the Aquas and Galactics staying there. They didn’t stand a chance with our combined might and the power of Moltres. When we had gotten there most of their stuff was already packed up indicating that they were getting ready to relocate. They probably knew that their hideout had been compromised when we captured the Rocket Warehouse. I was actually surprised that they hadn’t fled for their lives yesterday after we obtained Moltres.

For the next couple of weeks our unit vigilantly patrolled the Sevii Islands looking for any remaining members of Teams Rocket, Aqua, and Galactic who were up to no good. There was no trace. As far as I was concerned, Team Neos had finally cleared the Sevii Islands of Team Triad for good!

Oh, and the day after we took Resort Gorgeous Zack and Skylar went on their date.
****************************

Word of P_M: Yes, Brian does indeed have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from Madison's death and anything that reminds him of it will trigger a similar breakdown.
 
Well then. That was intense. PTSD, fiery deaths, and beserker rage? That's quite a combination.

Otherwise, I'm happy you're hopping back on the fic wagon, PM! I'm looking forward to the conclusion.
 
We're got to see a different side to both Zack and Brian this time around and I quite liked it! A part of me almost wishes it was told from Zack's point of view because of that.

And the PSTD from Madison's death is so intense. I myself still don't want to re-read the chapter where she's murdered so it makes total sense :-(
 
Well, that chapter seemed rushed, especially about infiltrating Resort Gorgeous and what happened in Zack and Skylar's date, but this is a good story nonetheless! I just had some headaches with the spelling, and please don't go off to kill Chane like what you did with Madison, please? I had a heart attack with Madison's death. ;_;
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
@MarethyuX12 I like constructive criticism but could you be more specific? Was it the whole chapter that felt rushed or only certain parts? I'll admit the end was a bit haphazard but that's because I felt adding another battle at Resort Gorgeous would have needlessly dragged out the chapter and of course Brian didn't go with Zack and Skylar so all he could say on the matter was "They went out! :'D" Anyway, let me know so I can learn from my mistake and improve future chapters!:up: And don't worry, Chane isn't going anywhere any time soon. Madison's death was planned from the start but Chane's fate is in the hands of the story. ♥

And for all my fans, here's the newest chapter! >:D


Chapter 41: Broken Union


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Team Aqua Hideout—Lilycove Harbor
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The cries of Pokémon engaged in battle rang throughout the subaquatic hideout of Team Aqua. After months of searching, Team Neos has finally discovered the main base of Hoenn’s last remaining criminal organization and had gone in for the finishing blow.

“Hehehehehe.” chuckled a big burly man with short black hair dressed in the blue pants and bandana marked with Aqua’s logo worn by all members of the team. He opted out of a shirt, instead wearing a blue vest that let all of his girth hang free. “You have a lot of balls invading our hideout and expecting to get out of here alive! I, Aqua Admin Matt, will make sure you walk the plank!” he boasted towards a tall, thin man wearing the standard Team Neos uniform with silver bangles around his biceps. At his waist was a short sword.

“If you are so sure of yourself, then send out your Pokémon.” said the Neos encouragingly. There was no hostility in his voice. He genuinely wanted Matt to go all out against him. That way the Admin could at least die knowing he never stood a chance in the first place.

“*Grrr* Don’t mock me!” Matt roared throwing down a Net Ball. The sphere burst open on the floor releasing a large half-shark that was blue on top and white on bottom. The Sharpedo emerged with a roar staring hungrily at its prey with its red eyes while baring its mouthful of serrated teeth.

“Then I chose Cradily!” called the Neos sending out a tall green plant adorned with yellow markings. It had glowing yellow eyes inside the crevice on its face and pink tentacles around its head. Unlike his cockier cohorts, this man believed in going all out from the start rather than put himself at a disadvantage for the thrill of a challenge or to give his opponent a false sense of hope. It would be insulting to his Pokémon as well as his opponent otherwise.

“Confuse that uppity seadog with Water Pulse!” ordered Matt. Sharpedo opened its mouth wide launching a powerful burst of water at the giant barnacle.

“Cradily! Suck it all up with Giga Drain!” the Neos countered throwing his arm out. Cradily extended its tentacles then released three green tendrils of energy from them which began absorbing the water like a vacuum.

“No way!” the Aqua Admin shouted with a look of shock on his face. “That’s impossible!”

“Nothing is impossible with enough hard work and dedication.” said the Lieutenant speaking from experience. After all, he was widely considered the strongest Trainer in Hoenn as well as the strongest Lieutenant within Team Neos. “Now Cradily! Use Energy Ball!” The Barnacle Pokémon moved its tentacles so that the tips pointed towards the center of its face creating a green sphere between them. It then quickly unfurled its tentacles launching the ball at Sharpedo. The shark gave a loud cry as it fell to the floor unconscious.

“That can’t be! You fainted Sharpedo with one attack!?” cried Matt in shock. Sure it was a Super-effective hit, but he was an Admin of Team Aqua! There was no way his Pokémon should be knocked out in one hit.

“I told you, hard work and dedication makes anything possible. There is nothing you can do against me.” the Lieutenant reminded.

“Damn you!” Matt yelled calling back Sharpedo. “Let’s see you take on two Pokémon at once! Get ‘im!” The Aqua Admin threw down two more Pokéballs releasing a Golbat and a Mightyena. “Attack with Air Slash Golbat! Mightyena! Use Dark Pulse!” The Bat Pokémon swiped the air with its wings creating thin white arcs that traveled at the speed of wind towards Caradily. Mightyena meanwhile opened its mouth and fired off a powerful wave of darkness.

“Use Protect Cradily!” commanded the Lieutenant. The Barnacle Pokémon curled up into itself letting the attacks bounce harmlessly off of its sturdy body. “Now finish them off with Rock Slide!” he continued. Cradily slammed its heavy head to the floor breaking it apart. As it lifted its head, it sent large pieces of the floor and rocks beneath hurdling towards its foes. Golbat and Mightyena cried out as the attack battered them before collapsing.

“You’ve got to be kidding me! I can’t believe I lost to this Neophyte so easily!” roared Matt as he returned his last two Pokémon.

“Team Aqua is finished. This is Aqua’s main headquarters and you were the Admin in charge. You’ve been defeated and this base will soon fall to Team Neos. Once we get the information on where the Galactic and Rocket grunts are stationed we’ll wipe them out as well. With that, peace will come to Hoenn. Our Captains ordered that all members of Team Triad be executed, however your life may yet be spared if you tell me where Team Aqua’s Leader is hiding.”

“Hehehehehe. As if I would tell you where Archie is.” Matt laughed defiantly. The Lieutenant sighed in disappointment as he drew his sword. The blade was a brilliant silver and as sturdy as the Skarmory feather it was made from. The Aqua Admin only had a second to realize the price of his loyalty and arrogance before the Lieutenant finished positioning himself.

“Veil--” he started trying to save himself. But he was too late. The blade was thrust through his thick torso, through his heart, and out the back of his vest. “--stone…” he coughed out before his body fell limp.

“Thank you.” the Neos said pulling his sword out allowing Matt to fall face first and bleed out all over the floor. The Lieutenant swiped his weapon towards the floor to get the blood off, then resheathed it.
-----------------------------------------

Once the remaining Aquas in the base were dealt with, the Lieutenant pulled back his hood revealing messy silver hair and steel blue eyes. He then took out his phone and pressed 1 on the speed dial.

“Damian Sinclair speaking.” the person on the other end answered after a few rings.

“Captain, it’s Lt. Stone. We’re all finished here. Team Aqua’s main headquarters is ours now.” he reported.

“Well I bet you’re happy about that. Your region will soon be the first to be free.” Captain Sinclair said in congratulations.

“Yes sir. I have my team going through all of Aqua’s information to find any remaining cells in the region along with the location of the Rocket and Galactic grunts sent to Hoenn. Also, Team Aqua’s Leader was not here. All I have is the name “Archie” and that his possible whereabouts is Veilstone City, Sinnoh.”

“Very good Lieutenant. I’ll inform the other Captains. For now I want you and your squad to hold that base. If any more Aquas think of coming back to it, give them three options: join Team Neos in earnest and give us their full loyalty, abandon the ideals of Team Aqua and never stand in our way again, or die. The same goes for the Galactic and Rocket grunts.” the Captain ordered. Lt. Stone smirked.

“It’s been about 10 years since I heard that ultimatum. I guess you-know-who is sick of the bloodshed?” he asked.

“Actually, he doesn’t want to waste potential new recruits. Team Triad’s numbers are dwindling fast which means Phase 1 is nearly complete. The more members we have by the start of Phase 2 the better.”

“Understood sir.” Lt. Stone said before hanging up.

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Team Neos Main HQ— Somewhere in the Coronet Mountains
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Sitting at a desk in an empty conference room used only by the upper echelon of Team Neos was a man with spiky brown hair and bright blue eyes wearing a modified version of the Team Neos uniform. Instead of a long sleeved hoody he opted for short sleeves and instead of long pants wore knee length shorts. In front of him was a laptop which he was messing around with. He was so wrapped up in what he was doing that he didn’t even notice someone else had come in the room until she threw her arms around his shoulders and rested her head next to his. She had shoulder length dark red hair, blue eyes, and customized her uniform to have the shirt part of the hoody longer so that it acted as a dress over her pants as well as a zipper going from the neckline to the bottom.

“What are you working on Gabriel?” she asked. Gabriel turned his head to give his lover a kiss before answering.

“Just a conquest map.” he said. He pulled up a map of the Sevii Islands which had Five Island marked with the Neos emblem. “Team Rocket’s Warehouse was taken on April 18th. As expected from your old squad, Alex. Not only did they get the job done fast and efficiently, they also managed to catch Moltres.” complimented Gabriel.

“Of course they did. Raiden, Ken, and Skylar don’t mess around. That’s why I made sure Lt. Dwarf put those three together when this whole Triad business started.” Alex boasted.

“Speaking of Lt. Deter,” Gabriel said with a laugh as he scrolled to a map of Johto, “he gathered up a bunch of Officers and took out Team Rocket’s Hideout in Mahogany Town on May 27th.” Just like with the Sevii Island map, the area in question was marked off with Neos’s emblem. “I’m pretty sure that was Team Rocket’s main base in Johto because Triad activity has been scattered in the region since then with most concentrations being around Olivine City.”

“You think that’s because they’re trying to regain a foothold in Johto by coming in through the port?” inquired Alex taking the chair next to Gabriel. He in turn pushed the laptop so that it sat between them.

“Most likely.” he responded. He then switched to a map of Sinnoh which had the Team’s insignia on Eterna City. “June 19th, Team Galactic’s Headquarters gets taken by a nameless Fourth Seat and Second Seat Someone-or-another.”

“That’s so mean! You didn’t remember their names? How are they supposed to get recognition for their efforts?” Alex chided giving her lover a playful smack to the back of his head.

“Alright, alright. I’ll look up what their names were, jeez.” he snarked in defeat. “Thing is, Triad still has a very strong presence in Sinnoh meaning that was either a dummy base, or Team Galactic has another one in the region somewhere.” he said more seriously.

“Try Veilstone City.” Gabriel and Alex turned to see a man with long silver hair and dull green eyes standing in the doorway. His uniform was skin tight for better mobility in battle.

“How long have you been standing there Damian?” questioned Gabriel rubbing the back of his head nervously. The other Captain merely shook his head silently indicating he saw nothing his brother in arms should worry about.

“More importantly, why do you suggest Veilstone?” Alex asked.

“Lt. Stone just took Team Aqua’s Hideout today. The Aqua Leader was nowhere to be seen but he got Veilstone as a possible location. I’m guessing since it’s in Sinnoh, that’s where Galactic is also hiding out.” Damian informed.

“Gotta hand it to Lt. Stone! He certainly delivers!” Gabriel praised throwing both hands behind his head and leaning back. “We really need to get Big Boss to promote him to Captain.”

“I’ve made the offer but he declined. He said it was the same reason he stepped down as Hoenn Champion. He just doesn’t want that kind of responsibility.” said Damian.

“Can’t say I blame him. I miss the days of being a Lieutenant.” Alex said nostalgically. “Back when Team Neos was still a secret organization moving through the shadows unnoticed.”

“It’s too bad you weren’t around back when Big Boss was Captain and Damian and I were Lieutenants. You remember those days?” Gabriel reminisced.

“Yeah.” Damian said with a nod.

“Well of course I wasn’t around back then. You and I had only been dating a few months before the upheaval. At that point you didn’t want me anywhere near the organization.” Alex pointed out.

“It couldn’t be helped. Old Big Boss kicked the bucket. You don’t introduce your girlfriend to your family by bringing her to a funeral.” Gabriel responded with an apologetic smile.

“Enough about the past. We have a future to look forward to.” Damian reminded.

“Right! Do we have any leads as to where Galactic’s base is?” asked Alex.

“Not yet. I only just got the report from Lt. Stone before coming here.” said Damian. Meanwhile, Gabriel pulled up a map of Hoenn on his laptop and added the Neos insignia to Lilycove Harbor along with the date June 25th. He was pretty impressed. Things were starting to speed up. Elsewhere on the map was another Neos emblem on Mt. Chimney where he himself had led the assault on Team Magma’s Hideout.

“Well then let’s call up every Neos we have stationed in Veilstone and every spy we have in Team Galactic. If Aqua’s Leader is there than there is a good chance Rocket’s and Galactic’s Leaders are too. Now is our chance to put an end to Team Triad! If the three of us go down there and mobilize all of our best players, we’ll have Phase 1 finished before the end of the month!” declared Gabriel enthusiastically.

“What about Arthias?” Damian questioned.

“What about him?” Gabriel retorted. “We don’t need Arthias. There are three of us and three enemy Leaders. We can handle them on our own. Bringing him would be overkill.”

“He is just another Captain after all. Having the codename ‘Leader’ doesn’t make him special. The only thing Arthias really has going for him is his knowledge on military matters and his amazing combat prowess.” Alex agreed.

“Very well.” conceded Damian. “Then let’s get in contact with our people so we can find that base and coordinate an attack.”

-------------------------
Team Galactic HQ—Veilstone Building
-------------------------

Archie sat alone in his quarters quivering with rage. He couldn’t believe what he had heard. Team Neos had taken Team Aqua’s Hideout? Their primary base of operations? What’s more they even killed Matt! Everything Archie, everything Team Aqua, had been working towards all these years was evaporating into nothing! A sudden knock at his door interrupted his thoughts.

“Archie? It’s Shelly.” called the Admin.

“Come in.” he yelled irritably. Shelly opened the door and walked in closing it behind her. Her eyes were red and glossy, a sign she had been crying.

“What are we going to do?” she asked desperately.

“We’re gonna call up what’s left of our people and tell them Team Aqua’s not dead yet!” he declared adamantly.

“Are you serious?” Shelly questioned in surprise. The Aqua Leader scowled at her.

“Don’t tell me you’re planning to jump ship! We’ve already lost Amber and now Matt. You are the only Admin I have left!” he growled.

“No… I wasn’t. I just…” she stammered trying to find the right words. “It’s just that we’ve lost so much, I’m not sure we have enough to keep Team Aqua afloat.”

“We’ve still got me!” Archie said pointing his thumb at his chest. “And I still have you! As long as we’re alive and kicking, so is Team Aqua! I’m not giving up my dream! Our purpose is to expand the seas for more habitats for Water Pokémon! I’m not going to sit by and let a bunch of cocky bastards take that away from me! I’ll send them all to Davy Jones’s Locker or die trying!” he proclaimed channeling his fury into passion.

“Archie…” Shelly closed her eyes and thought about what her Boss had said. Archie had always been militant like this, even against those landlubbers calling themselves Team Magma. ‘Fight to the last man!’ he would say. ‘Don’t stop until Magma drowns!’ ‘Not even Groudon will stop Team Aqua!’ It would seem nothing had changed just because their opponent was now Team Neos. They were nothing to him but another obstacle that needed to be sunk. When she opened them they had a renewed sense of purpose. “You don’t have to worry about that Archie. No matter what occurs I will always follow your orders. I am a proud Aqua until the very end!” she swore.

“Thank you.” said Archie appreciatively.

“Besides, if we quit now it would waste the lives of the people we’ve already lost.” Shelly added. Archie nodded in agreement.

“We’ve got a meeting with Cyrus and Giovanni in an hour. Afterward, we’re contacting our grunts to tell them it’s do or die resistance!” he affirmed.
---------------------------

At the designated time, the Triumvirate gathered in the Galactic conference room with their respective second in commands, Saturn, Shelly, and Archer.

“It’s appalling!” said Cyrus, the first to speak. “This unity was supposed to pool our resources so that we could destroy Team Neos once and for all, but instead it has only brought chaos and ruin upon us. Team Galactic has lost its Eterna Branch along with Commanders Charon and Jupiter, Team Rocket has lost its foothold in Johto and the Sevii Islands, and Team Aqua has lost everything of value to us!”

“Excuse me!” yelled Archie slamming his palms to the table and jumping out of his seat.

“You heard him.” Saturn said condescendingly. “Two of your three Admins are dead and your hideout has been taken and with it all of your secrets. Any way you look at it Team Aqua’s finished. You’re nothing to us now but deadweight.”

“How dare you!” the Aqua Leader roared. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing! He would never accept them writing off Team Aqua like that!

“Settle down Archie.” Giovanni said coolly. “I for one do not agree with Cyrus’s grievance.”

“Then what do you think?” he demanded indignantly. He was still fuming over losing most of what he had to Team Neos, but he’d be damned if he was going to let his supposed allies treat him this way.

“When it gets down to it, Commander Saturn is right. Team Aqua is finished, but so are Team Galactic and Team Rocket. We’re all teetering on the edge of destruction. Our less faithful members have all dropped out afraid for their lives while our most loyal are either dead or among the few remaining we have left. All of our finances have been used up, the respect we had in the underworld has been completely tarnished, and no one has our backs anymore. Our operations are all but shut down.” Giovanni said bitterly, clenching his fist in anger. Then he got a conceited smirk as if he was planning something. “That is why every resource we have now is important! Team Aqua still has plenty of able bodied grunts, several vehicles, and of course you, Archie. Team Galactic and Team Rocket also have those things as well as our still functioning bases. Now, more than ever, we need to put everything we have into destroying Team Neos! That should be our first priority over slandering each other.”

“Besides, with all due respect Cyrus, Team Aqua only had one Hideout to lose and it was pretty well hidden I hear.” Archer interjected. “But you had two and you lost one. I’m curious if this building hasn’t already been compromised.” the Rocket Executive said smugly.

“And what about Team Rocket, Executive Archer? You’ve lost two bases!” retorted Saturn.

“Team Rocket works in a cell based structure where every cell is compartmentalized. No one has all of the information and that includes our hideouts. They only over see their regional duties and keep no records of our other facilities.” the Rocket Executive replied haughtily.

“Team Galactic is the same way.” Cyrus said calmly. That was an understatement. Most of Galactic’s members didn’t even know what the true purpose of their organization was.
--------------------------

Team Galactic’s Veilstone branch was located atop a tall mountain to the north of the city. It was out of the way enough that the public rarely bothered them yet accessible enough so that the grunts and new recruits could come and go as they pleased. And yet, outside there was a persistent knock at the door.

“Yeah, yeah. I hear you. Stop that banging ya prep!” called the Grunt on guard duty casually walking over to the door. She opened it to reveal a man wearing a green postal uniform consisting of shorts and a short-sleeved shirt holding a clipboard. His hat was pulled low obscuring his face but spiky brown hair stuck out from under the hat. Standing next to him was a tall wooden box with the word FRAGILE written on it sitting on a wheeled cart.

“Hello there! Is this Team Galactic HQ Veilstone Branch?” asked the deliveryman cheerfully.

“Rofl Yeah? Who are you?” asked the Grunt.

“I have a package to deliver here. It only specifies the recipient as Team Galactic.” he said.

“Who sent it?”

“No idea. I’m just doing my job.” He handed the Galactic the clipboard. “Sign here.” When the Grunt took it, the deliveryman got a big grin. “Nice spacesuit.” He then spread the fingers on his right hand into a ‘V’ similar to the Sci-Fi shows he watched as a kid. “Take me to your leader!” he said in an alien voice, again like the old Sci-Fi shows.

“Stfu n00b! Master Cyrus is in an important meeting right now.” the Galactic said in annoyance shoving the clipboard into the postal worker’s hands.

“Oh? So he is here? Well anyway, have a good day…” he took a quick glance at the signature. “Ebony Dark'ness Dementia Raven Way? Is that your real name?” he asked with a smirk. Ebony rolled her eyes as she wheeled the package into the base and closed the door behind her. “I need my cart back!” called the deliveryman. After getting no response for a few seconds, he quickly looked around to survey his surroundings, then ran half way down the mountain where Captains Sinclair and Ross were waiting.

“You are such a clown.” Damian chastised taking off his earpiece. Gabriel threw off his hat, still grinning from his shenanigans, and started changing out of his disguise.

“We’re about to blow them to hell. After that who knows when I’ll get to have this much fun!” he justified as Alex handed him his uniform.

“I love you just the way you are. Don’t ever change.” she said.

“Don’t plan to! Now let’s go make Big Boss proud!” he said pulling a detonator out of his pocket. With the press of a button the package exploded, rocking the entire Galactic headquarters, wrecking the front lobby, and turning Ebony into giblets.
--------------------------

The conference room violently shook. The ones inside gripped the table to brace themselves until the tremors stopped.

“Was that an earthquake?” asked Shelly in dismay.

“No, I definitely heard an explosion with that!” Archie said. As if to answer the question at hand, a Galactic Grunt burst into the room panting heavily and covered in sweat.

“Master Cyrus! I’m sorry for disturbing you, but we’re being attacked by Team Neos! They’re invading through the front lobby as we speak!” relayed the Grunt in a panic.

“What!?” shouted Cyrus.

“Oh dear. What was that about this building being secure?” Archer questioned sarcastically. Cyrus glared at the Rocket Executive furiously. Didn’t the fool realize what was at stake here? Their very lives were in danger!

“Mobilize every Galactic in the building!” Cyrus ordered urgently.

“Yes sir!” agreed the Grunt running off.

“Archie! Prove Team Aqua is still a worthy investment by getting your people here as well! You do the same Giovanni! You said every resource was precious so let’s get everyone here we can!” commanded Galactic’s Leader.

“I’ll contact Mars!” offered Saturn pulling out his phone. Archer and Shelly followed suit to contact their subordinates as well.

“Cyrus. Team Triad will fall here if Team Neos captures us. I propose the six of us plan an escape route in case the situation goes badly.” Giovanni proposed.

“Are you suggesting we’ll lose?” demanded Archie.

“I am merely stating the possibility that we don’t know the whole situation. There is no doubt that the three of us are the most powerful Trainers in the world, but three against thirty are not favorable odds no matter how you look at it.” he clarified.

“Live to fight another day while using our subordinates as shields. I like it.” agreed Cyrus. “Saturn. Tell Mars to have a chopper waiting for us on the roof. If we need to make our escape we’ll head there.”

“But that’s cowardly!” objected Archie.

“Then you can go down with the ship!” Saturn berated uncaringly. Archie responded by growling in displeasure. Cyrus meanwhile kept an expressionless face, but inside he was sneering. Giovanni had unintentionally given him the idea to sacrifice his fellow Leaders to save himself and Saturn. Team Aqua had already outlived their usefulness and with Giovanni out of the way, Team Galactic could absorb Team Rocket. Their goal was only world domination so they would be easy to convert if Cyrus let them continue working towards that goal under a new banner. All he would have to do then is lay low under Team Neos’s radar while quietly working towards creating his world without spirit.
---------------------------

Pokémon of all types and species clashed on every floor of the building. An Aggron slammed a Croagunk with Iron Tail. A Swallot sprayed Poison Gas at a Clefable. A Girafarig swung its tail at a Staraptor and chewed it up with Crunch. A Starmie used Harden to block an Ursaring’s Slash. A Ninetales used Flamethrower but its enemy Kadabra Teleported out of the way leaving a singe on the thankfully fireproof floor. Attacks continued to rage back and forth in a display of power versus power!

“Just give up Team Galactic! We won’t have to kill you if you surrender quietly!” negotiated a First Seat.

“Yeah right! I heard stories of others who surrendered only for you people to turn around and kill them anyway!” countered a Galactic distrustfully.

“How could you have heard that if there were no survivors?” retorted a different Neos. The Galactic went to speak but fell silent. That was a valid point.

“YAAARRRR!” cried an Aqua rushing into the fray followed by many others. They had gotten their Boss’s message about Team Neos’s assault and were hungry for revenge. The battlefield soon found itself flooded with Water-types like Cloyster, Qwilfish, Sealeo, Crawdaunt, Carvanha, Golduck, and Lombre.

“That goes for you too Team Aqua! Our Captains have ordered your immediate surrender in exchange for your lives. Anyone who refuses is to be killed on the spot!” the First Seat repeated for the newcomers.

“Save it Neos scum!” refused an Aqua. “Tear them apart with Bite Carvanha!” The small piranha swam through the air with its mouth open, ready to take a bite of flesh.

“Cacturn! Needle Arm!” commanded the First Seat. A tall human-shaped cactus smacked the fish to the floor with its arms then stomped on it for good measure. “If that is how you’re going to repay my offer then so be it! I gave you your chance, let no one forget that! Pin Missile!” The Scarecrow Pokémon lifted up its arms and fired a barrage of needles into the group of Aquas. The wannabe pirates screamed as they gripped their wounds. A few were bleeding from their eyes, others had less serious wounds, and some were dead from the needles puncturing vital blood vessels and organs. The rest looked on in horror, worry, sympathy, or a combination of.

“If we surrender, will you really let us go?” asked an Aqua on the verge of puking.

“As long as you don’t try to get revenge on us later. What you do with your life is up to you. Hell, you could join Team Neos for all I care as long as you give us full loyalty.” the First Seat offered.

“And if we don’t join you guys?” a Galactic questioned.

“Then stay out of our way. You leave us alone, we’ll leave you alone.” said an Officer. After a deep breath, the Aqua took off his bandana and threw it to the floor.

“Tomas why?” yelled another Aqua. Tomas returned his Pokémon and stared at his cohort with dead eyes.

“You heard them. This is a get out of jail free card for us! I like the sea as much as the next guy, but I’m not throwing my life away over it! I’ve got a wife and kids at home dammit! I’m outa here.” Tomas said throwing his arms out in frustration.

“No you don’t traitor! Get him with Poison Jab Tentacruel!” called a third Aqua. Before the Jellyfish Pokémon could attack, the crackling sound of electricity could be heard as lightning surged through the air striking Tentacruel for heavy damage and leaving it paralyzed. A second Thunder struck Tentacruel’s Trainer leaving him seizing on the floor with smoke coming off of him. Tomas looked over to see an Aqua return her Lanturn before taking off her headband as well. Both nodded to each other in understanding before running for the exit.

“Lol screw this. I’m done too. This haircut is lame anyway.” said a Galactic following suit.

“Anyone else?” asked the First Seat with a grin.
-------------------------------------

Cyrus scowled furiously at the monitors in the surveillance room relaying footage of the battles taking place throughout his headquarters. He was enraged that his own Galactics were recalling their Pokémon, throwing their hands up in defeat, and then just strolling out the door. Those ingrates! And where was Team Rocket in all of this? The Aqua Grunts had shown up as requested, even if several of them were also jumping ship, but the Rockets were still nowhere to be seen!

“Saturn. We’re leaving.” he said to his Commander, the only other person in the room with him. Archie, Shelly, Giovanni, and Archer were waiting outside serving as guards incase Neos found them. The last thing the Triumvirate wanted was to get trapped in a small room.

“Where too Cyrus? To the battle or escape?” inquired Saturn.

“We’re going to the roof to wait for Mars. I no longer care what happens to the others. Our own Galactics are betraying us, Aqua is useless, and I no longer trust the Rockets. They can all die for all I care.” Cyrus said coldly.

“Then what about the ones outside?” the Galactic Commander asked.

“At the earliest opportunity we abandon them, even if that means preventing them from getting in the chopper.” clarified Cyrus. Saturn nodded in understanding as the duo left the surveillance room.

“So how is everything?” Archie questioned anxiously.

“Giovanni was right. Team Neos came fully prepared to destroy us. Even with all of our underlings working together, they are being wiped out one by one. It’s over. Our only hope is to escape to the roof.” the Galactic Leader lied.

“We should be down their fighting! I won’t stand for this humiliation! Those scalawags need to pay for everything they’ve done to Team Aqua!” roared Archie.

“Yes, go ahead. Fight them. You might be able to beat two, three, maybe even four of them. But how many do you think there are? They’ll overwhelm you and kill you without you even making an impact. And then just like that, Team Aqua is no more.” Saturn berated.

“Don’t look down on me! If this really is Team Aqua’s last stand, then as its Leader I’m going down with the ship!” Archie countered.

“Don’t act rashly! You said it yourself; as long as the two of us are still around, we can rebuild Team Aqua! We can’t accomplish our dream without you!” Shelly pleaded.

“She has a point. Besides, you’re still valuable to Team Triad as well. It would be a shame to lose one-third of our power because you were too stubborn to honor your end of the bargain.” Archer pointed out curtly. The Aqua Leader gave him an irritated growl. Before he could reprimand Archer for daring to speak to him that way, a group of four Aquas strolled up the hallway towards them.

“Well, well. If it isn’t the Boss.” one of them said contemptuously.

“And look. Not only is Admin Shelly with him, so are the Leaders of Teams Galactic and Rocket!” said another one pompously. Archie bared his teeth at them as his anger continued to build.

“I don’t appreciate that tone you lot are giving me! And why aren’t you in battle with Team Neos?” he demanded furiously.

“Because Neos gave us an offer we couldn’t refuse.” said a third one pointing to the Aqua insignia on her bandana. It had been crossed out with silver paint making a crude ‘X’. “They said our lives would be spared if we joined them. If we agreed, we’d have to prove our loyalty by deep sixing our former comrades. The four of us figured who better than our old Boss who was more than happy to let us die!”

“Don’t think we didn’t overhear you just now! You were planning to escape!” yelled the first one.

“You damn turncoats! I’ll fucking kill you!” roared Archie taking out an Ultra Ball.

“No Archie! Let me deal with them! I’m an Admin of Team Aqua, so I should be able to handle these lowlifes!” Shelly offered with her own Ultra Ball in hand. She walked forward to get between her Boss and former underlings to face them head on. “I’ll be right behind you once these four are Sharpedo bait!” she called sending out her shark.

“For the honor of Team Aqua, don’t lose!” Archie ordered. Shelly turned her head and nodded with a smile. There was no way they were going to get passed.

“I think it best we retreat for now. If our own subordinates are going to turn on us we won’t be able to tell friend from foe.” Giovanni said urgently.

“We have no choice then!” Cyrus affirmed. When he saw them fleeing on the monitors he thought they were merely being told to surrender and leave, not join the enemy! Sentiments like this were exactly why Cyrus wanted to get rid of emotion completely!

“Don’t think you’re getting away that easily!” taunted the fourth Aqua. “Ariados! Trap them with Spider Web!” he called throwing a Pokéball.

“Sharpedo! Taunt!” commanded Shelly quickly. Sharpedo snarled at Ariados to antagonize it. The spider responded by shooting web at Sharpedo instead tying her up with Constrict.

“Screw this! There are four of us!” the second Aqua yelled trying to run passed the battle. Without batting an eye, Shelly threw down another Pokéball releasing Mightyena.

“The only place you’re going is hell!” she promised with a cold look in her eyes.
-----------------------

The escaping crime lords made it to the roof without further hassle. Already there waiting was a silver helicopter marked with Team Galactic’s ‘G’. Standing outside of it waiting was a red haired woman wearing a custom Galactic uniform with black shoulders and arms and a big round skirt.

“You made it!” she called.

“Yes Mars. Now let’s get out of here.” Cyrus said unemotionally. He was done with this.

“Is there really room in there for all of us?” asked Archie looking the transport over. Unless there was some sort of storage area, the cockpit looked only large enough to hold three people at most. Cyrus responded with a condescending smirk.

“Sorry gentlemen, but this is where we part ways. I do hereby disband Team Triad.” he told them mockingly.

“Scoundrel! You were planning on selling us out from the start!” Archie accused angrily.

“It was my goal from the very beginning. Team Neos was too powerful for Galactic alone, and after the tragic fate of Team Magma I knew my organization was in trouble. I formed this unity hoping to gain an edge over Neos and then once you were used up, I’d be done with you. Unfortunately, my plan went awry and so you see, none of you are of any use to me any longer.” Cyrus explained.

“I do have one question though. For Commander Mars that is.” said Archer. He calmly walked passed Cyrus and Saturn towards the female Galactic. “Tell me honestly and loudly for all to hear. What is your Boss’s name?”

“Lord Giovanni!” Mars shouted proudly. The two Galactics’ eyes grew large at the traitor’s reply.

“All I needed to hear.” Archer said conceitedly as he pulled a pistol from his jacket pocket. He pointed it at Saturn and, before the Galactic Commander could even reach a Pokéball, shot him dead.

“Mars, how could you?” Cyrus demanded in a mix of shock and rage.

“Because I’m not Mars.” she said in a man’s voice. ‘Mars’ put his hand to his face causing his body to squirm until the false identity gave way to a man with purple hair and goatee wearing a Rocket uniform. He gave a wry grin as he returned his Ditto to its Pokéball. Archer put his gun away with a mocking smirk.

“May I introduce Rocket Executive Petrel Lambda, our master of disguise!” he boasted putting his hand on his cohort’s shoulder.

“Good to see you Petrel.” Giovanni greeted cordially as he approached his Executives.

“You as well Lord Giovanni.” the Executive said humbly.

“What is this? We specifically contacted Mars! That’s even a Galactic chopper! What is all of this?” questioned Cyrus heatedly.

“Allow me to explain.” Petrel offered. “You sent her to Kanto did you not? Well, you see, she got in a disagreement with another Executive of ours. She didn’t win. I won’t point any fingers, but he is known as ‘the cruelest and scariest of the Rocket Executives’ and he gleefully showed her why he has that moniker. Since that incident, I have been masquerading as Commander Mars to keep the Galactics under our care in line.”

“You said before, Cyrus, that Team Aqua had lost everything. The truth is, it is Team Galactic that has lost everything. You people are nothing more than a memory now.” mocked Giovanni. Archie spat at the former Galactic Leader’s feet.

“Well said Giovanni. That traitor will get what he deserves when Team Neos finds him! But how do you propose we get out of here. It’s still a tight squeeze in that ‘copter.” Archie questioned.

“We?” laughed the Rocket Leader. “You are also obsolete. I have no further use for you either Archie.”

“What!? But in the conference room you said I was still a valued ally!”

“I said we needed every resource at our disposal. You have done an excellent job of supplying Team Triad, but as of now Team Triad has served its purpose. Everything you have contributed will now be used exclusively by Team Rocket!” bragged Giovanni condescendingly.

“You bastard! I’ll kill all of you!” screamed Archie in blind rage. He couldn’t believe how treacherous both his allies had turned out to be. No, not just Galactic and Rocket, even his own Aquas turned on him! The only one who wasn’t disloyal to him was Shelly and she still wasn’t here! Had she fallen to those double-crossers downstairs? Archie could not bear this shame, this humiliation any longer! “Sharpedo! Rip them into chum!” he ordered sending out his Pokémon.

“Cut them to ribbons Weavile!” ordered Cyrus sending out his own Pokémon. He knew either of his foes could attack him at any moment.

Giovanni stood across from both of his ex-partners looking high and mighty. They were both alone, and against each other besides, while he had two of his Executives to back him up. However, he had no intention of getting into it with them. Team Neos was still running unchecked through the building and could get to the roof at any moment. It was better to just leave them to their fate.

“Archer, Petrel. We’re finished here.” he said strolling into the pilfered chopper.

“Yes sir.” Archer said coolly taking out a Pokéball with Petrel following suit. The two threw the spheres releasing Houndoom and Weezing respectively.

“Stay here and fight like a man Giovanni!” bellowed Archie. “Use Crunch Sharpedo!”

“Kill them with Night Slash!” commanded Cyrus.

“Houndoom! Cover us with Smokescreen!” Archer countered.

“You too Weezing!” Petrel advocated. The two Pokémon exhaled black smoke from their mouth and pours respectively obscuring the rooftop in a thick cloud.

Archie and Cyrus coughed as they choked on the poisonous haze. A moment later they were deafened by the sound of the chopper’s engine starting. The spinning blades blew away the smoke, but at this point it was too late for the disgruntled crime lords to attack their treasonous foe. Giovanni looked down on them haughtily as he and his Executives made their escape back to Kanto. In sheer frustration, Archie screamed as loudly as he could towards the sky.

“With all the noise, I thought we might have been too late.” Archie and Cyrus turned to see three people wearing customized versions of the Team Neos uniform standing at the entrance to the roof. “But look, two of them are still here. By your outfits, am I safe to assume you are Archie and Cyrus, the former leaders of Teams Aqua and Galactic?” asked the man in the shorts and short-sleeves.

“That’s right. And who are you supposed to be?” questioned Cyrus.

“Not that you’ll live long enough to care, but we’re the three Captains of Team Neos.” answered the female.

“Aw man! So does this mean Boss Rocket just flew the coop?” sighed the first Captain.

“Looks that way.” said the Captain wearing a tighter version of the uniform.

“Well since I killed Maxie, I’ll be nice and let you guys decide who you’re fighting.” the first one said dejectedly.

“Dibs on Cyrus!” the female Captain chimed in.

“Fine, then I guess Aqua’s Boss is mine.” The second male agreed.

By now Archie was grinding his teeth in fury. Not only were they treating this like a game, but the one freely admit to killing Maxie, his sworn rival! It should have been him that beat Maxie! But there was one other thing bothering him.

“In order to get up here you would have needed to get passed my Admin! What happened to her?” he demanded.

“Admin? Oh you mean the redhead? When we got to her she had battled four of your former members into a stalemate. Since no one had any Pokémon left, Captain Sinclair here told the ex-Aquas to stand aside and he finished her off himself. Such is the price of loyalty.” the first male informed. At those words Archie all but snapped.

“YOUUUU!” he screamed. “Sharpedo! Attack them!”

-------------------------
Team Neos Main HQ— Somewhere in the Coronet Mountains
-------------------------

That night the Captains returned victorious. Archie and Cyrus didn’t stand a chance. They had fallen to Damian and Alex as easily as Maxie did to Gabriel. Team Triad was officially no more but the war wasn’t over yet. Team Rocket’s Boss had escaped meaning there was still one more criminal organization to deal with. At least by going through all of the Veilstone Building’s security footage, the Captains were able to learn that the Rocket’s leader was none other than Giovanni Terremoto the Gym Leader of Viridian City, Kanto. Not to mention they got twenty new recruits out of the deal which was nice.

While strolling through the halls, they were approached by a Lieutenant who was looking rather fidgety. “Excuse me, Captains? It’s… it’s Leader. He’s in your private conference room and wants to see you.” the Lieutenant reported nervously.

“Got it. Thank you.” Damian answered. This obviously meant he had gotten wind of their invasion and was looking for a progress report.

The trio entered their chamber where they were greeted by a tall figure wearing a black version of Neos’s uniform pants and boots, black gauntlets that covered his entire arms, a black breastplate lined with gold, black shoulder pads which curved upwards also lined with gold, and a black cape with a hood attached to it that obscured his face.

“Well, well. If it isn’t the exalted Leader! What brings you here?” Gabriel asked snarkily as he threw his hands behind his head. Leader looked around to make sure the four of them were alone.

“Neo would like to speak with you.” he said speaking with a low pitched voice. Without a word, Gabriel walked over to the table where his laptop was still sitting. Since no one used this room without an invitation from one of the Captains, Leader, or Neo, he figured it was safe here. After a few key strokes a black screen came up with Team Neos’s emblem on it.

“Good evening my Captains.” said a digitally distorted voice on the other end of the call.

“Hey Big Boss! I guess you heard about our raid on Team Triad’s compound today?” asked Gabriel in high spirits.

“Indeed. Can we move on with Phase 2 now?” Neo inquired.

“Unfortunately not sir. While we were able to defeat Team Galactic and Team Aqua, Team Rocket’s Leader escaped.” Damian reported.

“You fools! Three Captains and you let one get away? I knew I should have handled this!” berated Leader.

“We didn’t let anyone escape! There were no Rockets in the building at all meaning Giovanni was already planning to betray the others before we even showed up. Even if you had come, it wouldn’t have made a difference Arthias!” Alex countered showing no respect for Leader’s code name.

“It matters not anyway.” Neo said calmly to defuse the situation. “Team Rocket’s betrayal is well within our parameters. From the very beginning we planned Phase 1 to start off as interventions against all four major criminal organizations. Teams Aqua and Magma were both the smallest and were rivals of each other so the possibility that one of them would be the first to fall was very high. After that, we planned for either Team Rocket or Team Galactic to contact the others to form a pact hoping in vain to counter us. In the event Galactic was beaten first, we would not have needed to worry about this unity because Aqua and Magma would have never worked together. In that scenario we would have just kept up our interventions without change until the rest were eliminated. In the event the formation of Team Triad did occur, it would be an uneasy agreement. The three Teams would be too busy trying to fulfill their own personal goals to work together as a cohesive entity. In the end, through weakness of trust and weakness of will, they would inevitably betray each other leaving us to mop up the mess. In the event that they were able to put aside their differences and compromise, they would simply become a single target for us to overwhelm with our superior forces. Also, Team Rocket controlled the most territory and resources and had the most members so they were always planned as the last to fall if they were not in Triad. So you see Arthias, everything is still on track and going according to plan. What has me curious is that name you dropped Captain Ross. Giovanni was it?”

“Yes sir. We discovered that Giovanni Terremoto is the leader of Team Rocket.” she informed.

“He must have escaped to Kanto then. I’ll go there myself to find him.” Arthias asserted.

“What? No way! We can handle this!” objected Gabriel.

“I do not care who does it, just get it done. The second annual White City Tournament begins in a few days. I would like Phase 2 to begin immediately after so that gives you a little over a week.” Neo commanded authoritatively.

“Yes sir!” all four answered at once.

“Excellent. To make your objective easier, I want you to leak Giovanni’s identity to the media. It will limit his movements with how famous he is and we may get tips on his whereabouts that way. Contact me again when Team Rocket has fallen.” ordered Neo. Seconds later, the screen went blank.

“You three had your fun with Magma, Aqua, and Galactic. I haven’t been on the frontline in ages! I’m going!” said Arthias impatiently for his nature was that of a warrior. Every instinct in his body was commanding him to fight.

“Fine. But you can’t do it alone. You’ll want the best members we have for this all important task.” Alex teased.

“Do you have a particular unit in mind?” Arthias inquired.

“The one sent to the Sevii Islands. They have experience in dealing with Team Rocket. They captured the Rocket’s hideout on Chrono Island and one of them even succeeded in catching Moltres. You’ll want that squad for sure!” she endorsed.

“Very well. I will take them, the ones who captured the hideout in Johto, and any others with exceptional track records.” he agreed.

Meanwhile Gabriel was typing vigorously at his laptop. He had already marked off Veilstone City on his conquest map and was now spreading Giovanni’s name all over the internet. Soon there would be nowhere for him to hide.
*******************************

So did everyone enjoy this rare glimpse into the inner workings of Team Neos's top brass? I intentionally left some things ambiguous to not only give an air of mystery to them but also keep up the suspense of what's to come! :\=|: Incidentally, there are 9 chapters remaining and I don't plan on releasing any more until all 9 are written. The reason for that is because they all occur literally back to back and should be released as such. After all, IT'S THE FINAL BATTLE! >:D
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
It's that time of year again people! Today marks six years of Team Neos and what a six years it's been! This year I can honestly say I will finish the first part of this story because guess what? The first part IS finished! >:D I'll post one new chapter a week just to give you, my lovely fans, a chance to actually read and comment on new chapters rather than be zerg rushed with all nine chapters at once. I waited for today specifically because it was the anniversary, the perfect day for the beginning of the end! Enjoy, and thank you for your patience and sticking with me all these years! ^_^


Chapter 42: Attack on Rocket Game Corner


There wasn’t a single person within Team Neos who hadn’t heard about the elimination of Team Aqua and Team Galactic. Of the original four criminal organizations that once gripped the world only my old nemesis Team Rocket remained. Even better, Raiden received instruction from our higher ups for us to return to Kanto. It meant we were among the ones chosen to destroy Team Rocket once and for all! Soon they too would be just an ugly memory.

The news that Giovanni Terremoto was the leader of Team Rocket spread like wildfire all over the internet, on TV, and in every newspaper. I could barely believe it when I heard it. I would never have pictured Giovanni as Team Rocket’s Boss when I battled him for the Earth Badge all those years ago. Sure he was a ruthless and very aggressive battler, but I just assumed he was just a tough person. But suddenly his cunning way of combat made so much more sense!

People all over the world, especially the residents of Viridian City and Trainers travelling around Kanto, were absolutely livid when they heard about it. The fact that a criminal mastermind had been a respected Gym Leader for such a long time had everyone questioning the integrity of the Kanto Pokémon League and the government at large. In fact, on the news last night they were reporting riots in Viridian City that escalated to the point where the Viridian Gym was burned to the ground. I heard a rumor around HQ that the riots were instigated by Team Neos as a means of smoking Giovanni out but no one really had any proof on the matter. Even if it were true, the media certainly didn’t know about the rumor to even bring up the possibility and none of the higher-ups were taking credit.

Whatever the reason was didn’t matter to me anyway. This afternoon we had been gathered in the assembly hall where we were to be given an important debriefing by Leader himself! I could barely contain my excitement! If he was coming here then that meant something big was about to happen and we were going to be a part of it!

“So Raiden. What’s Leader like anyway?” Zack asked.

“I honestly cannot say. I have never seen him nor even heard his voice. Very few people in our organization have actually met Leader. This is quite a privilege indeed.” replied Raiden.

“The chain of command sure likes keeping itself secret doesn’t it?” Eve mused cynically.

“It is for the best. Would you like to be captured because some low class Grunt was able to identify you by name?” our superior asked stoically.

“Master Raiden has a point.” I agreed. I decided to keep the fact that I’ve met Arthias to myself. To be honest I didn’t really know much about him and I didn’t want to spread false information.

The proceeding moments seemed to slowly tick away, but at last the lieutenants gathered on stage one after another. Together they stood in single file like a well organized military getting ready to introduce their commander. I chuckled silently to myself knowing what was about to happen.

“Attention Team Neos! We would like to introduce to you all the High Commander of Team Neos, Leader!” shouted one of the lieutenants before bowing and getting back in line.

Arriving stage right was a tall figure wearing a black version of our uniform’s pants and boots, black gauntlets that covered his entire arms, a black breastplate lined with gold, black shoulder pads which curved upwards also lined with gold, and a black cape with a hood attached to it that obscured his face. He had the appearance of a seasoned and imposing warrior.

“I am Leader!” he announced to us in a gruff, yet authoritative voice. “As I am sure all of you are aware of by now, Team Rocket is our only enemy that remains. Thanks to the intelligence gathered by our Stealth Division, we have isolated Team Rocket’s last remaining hideout as the Game Corner in Celadon City. That is most likely where Giovanni Terremoto is holed up. As there have been no casualty reports on Rocket Executives Archer Kurtz, Ariana Sham, Lance Proton, or Petrel Lambda, we can assume they are also in the base. With all of Team Rocket’s leadership trapped in their only remaining stronghold, they make it all too easy. We attack at midnight! Show no mercy! Every member of Team Rocket is to be executed! Just know that I want Giovanni’s head. None of you are to engage him in battle or it will be your head I claim! Is that understood?” continued Leader.

“Yes sir!” we answered enthusiastically.

“Good. You have ten hours to prepare. Make the most of that time by making sure that you and your Pokémon are in your prime fighting condition. Also, those of you who wish to have your Pokémon outside of their Pokéballs, get them fitted for armor to minimize the chances of them getting too injured to battle. Any warrior who cannot battle might as well be dead! You are all dismissed for now. Meet back here by 2330 hours!” With that final command, Leader exited the stage followed by the lieutenants.

All I gotta say is that it had better be some damn good armor.” grumbled Axel sounding about as excited as he usually was about putting on human clothes. I pat his back.

“It’s only for one night. You’ll be fine!” I assured. I turned to Zack and Lloyd. “Are you two going to join us?” I inquired.

“Of course we are! It’s the final battle!” Zack said enthusiastically.

When we arrived at the designated area there were several people from the R&D department with measuring tape ready for us. Besides Axel and Lloyd, the other Pokémon in the room were a Poliwrath, a Dodrio, a Sandslash, a Scizor, a Donphan, an Aggron (not sure why those two needed armor when they’re already heavily built), a Shiftry, a Vigoroth, a Rampardos, and a Drapion.

“Alright everyone, let’s do this in an orderly fashion so we can get this done in a timely manner.” said one of the scientists. “You with the Infernape. Step over here please.” he said motioning me and Axel over. The Flame Pokémon groaned exasperatedly. He was really not looking forward to this.

“Have it hold out its arms.” the scientist said pulling out the measuring tape. I nodded wordlessly to him.

Damn.” sighed the monkey holding his arms out to the side like a ‘T’. Axel had his chest circumference, shoulder width, torso length, waist circumference, lower arm length and circumference, leg length and circumference, and head circumference taken. The scientist shook his hands and tape after taking Axel’s head measurements from most likely getting burned. Seriously, what did he think was going to happen?

Dumbass.” mocked Axel.

“Alright, we’ll call for you in about five to six hours. In the meantime, do whatever you need to prepare for tonight.” Mr. Scientist said completely unaware of Axel’s mockery. When Zack and Lloyd were done, the four of us left until further notice.

“So Zack, what do you plan on doing until show time?” I asked.

“There are a few items I want to pick up at the Celadon Department Store for tonight. Wanna come with?” he invited.

“Thanks, but I’d like to get one final round of training done before we head out. That last warm up could mean the difference between flawless victory and fatality.” I said.

“You are such a battle junky, I swear!” he said with a laugh. “Just don’t wear your Pokémon out too much. Them being tired out could also mean the difference too.”

“Don’t worry, I know their limits. I’ll only have them train for an hour each. By that time Axel’s armor should be ready. After that we’ll eat and then nap for three hours to rest up.” I reassured.

Only an hour?” Axel questioned feigning offence. I stuck my tongue out at him.

With that, Zack and I parted ways. While I walked to the training area, I saw a tall lanky figure blocking my path.

“I was hoping to run into you.” Feng greeted condescendingly giving me a creeper smirk.

“Sorry, but you’re not my type.” I said flatly. I tried to continue past him but he stuck out his arm to block my path. I looked the First Seat in the eyes with an unamused look. Just what was he trying to pull?

“You should bow your head to your superiors and not leave their presence until you’re dismissed.” he reprimanded. “Now, should I go find Leader and tell him about you?” he asked keeping his grin. Of course that’s what he wanted. Of all the people for me to flip my shit in front of it just had to be this guy!

“I’m flattered that you think I’m so amazing that you want to introduce me to Leader, but I’m just a lowly officer after all. Nothing special about me.” I said innocently.

“Don’t play dumb with me boy! You know damn well what I’m talking about!” he growled. I tilted my head to the side as if pretending to think about it. “I’m talking about what you did on Mt. Ember!” he yelled growing impatient.

“What I did on Mt. Ember? … Oh, you mean my mental breakdown. Don’t worry, Master Raiden told me to get a psyche evaluation and I assure you I’m fit for duty tonight. No need to bother Leader with such a trivial thing.” I reassured. A lie. I have not fulfilled Raiden’s request yet. It’s not that I’ve been too busy, it’s that I don’t want to take the chance of letting my Dragon-forme show to anyone else. It was bad enough Feng knew.

“A mental breakdown? That’s what you call it? Mental breakdowns don’t juggle people in midair! And what about your wounds? You and that girl both had head injuries that healed at the same time!” he persisted. What a pain in my ass.

“Hers was worse than it looked and mine looked worse than it was.” I told him. A lie. Chane’s injury was only a small scratch once she got it cleaned up and bandaged. Mine required a lot more maintenance to clean up and suture and it took a lot longer to heal than any of my other injuries because they were Dragon inflicted.

“You jackass!” Feng yelled before punching me in the face.

You’ll pay for that!” promised Axel as his flame blazed wilder. I waved my hand to let him know I had this under control which calmed him down.

“Thank you sir, may I have another?” I taunted with a smirk. Feng growled at me looking ready to hit me again.

“Enough!” I turned to see Raiden walking up the hall.

“Isn’t that cute? Arka is like a mother Ursaring coming to protect her cub.” sneered Feng.

“You should be preparing for our mission tonight, not harassing other people’s subordinates.” Raiden chastised.

“Heh. I was done with him anyway.” he spat before pushing us both aside to go make other people uncomfortable. Once Feng was gone Raiden turned to me with an unamused look.

“He started it.” I defended.

“At least you maintained human-forme.” Raiden said coolly.

“Have I lost control in the last two months? No. In fact, I haven’t even gone Dragon since Mt. Ember because we’ve done nothing but patrol the Sevii Islands making sure Triad didn’t try coming back. And let me just point out that I have only ever lost control twice. Safari Zone where we were overwhelmed and our enemies were beating us and Mt. Ember when that Rocket got immolated. I have been in complete control every other time since Dragon-forme manifested almost a year ago.” I pointed out.

“I know. That is why I am rewarding you by taking you off of probation.” he said proudly.

“Seriously?” I said practically squeeing for joy.

Hell yeah!” Axel congratulated giving me a high five.

“Just keep it under wraps tonight as well. There will be a lot more of us, and I am especially wary of Leader finding out about you. I do not know him so I cannot predict how he will respond.” Raiden warned.

“Trust me, I feel the same way. I do not like the vibes I get off of him.” I admit. I don’t trust Arthias at all and I’d be very happy if he didn’t even know I was a part of this unit. I really hope that Feng doesn’t go through with his threat.

“Come. You were heading to the training area right? I would like to join you.” Raiden invited.

“To battle you?” I asked worriedly.

“Of course not. I want to give myself and my Pokémon a warm up before tonight’s battle.” he clarified. I felt pretty dumb for even asking. Of course we wouldn’t battle. Raiden was a league above me. There would be no way I’d make a good sparring partner for him. Barely a good warm up maybe, but the way he treats the four of us, I know he’d want us to get something out of it too.
---------------

Now that’s more like it!” Axel cheered. He had a point about only training each Pokémon an hour each. Since Feng had delayed me a bit and since I still had to walk to and from the training area, I decided I’d let my Pokémon train for half an hour during which time I’d also do some training. Then I’d have them spar with each other for another half hour. The matchups I decided on would be Piloswine vs. Snorlax, Aerodactyl vs. Beldum, and Riolu vs. Axel. Since the Flame Pokémon was such a spoiled brat I agreed to spar with him too after he was done with Riolu. I made it clear to all six of my Pokémon that they weren’t to faint each other, just work on moves and strategy. For each half hour session I only commanded one Pokémon for 15 minutes apiece so that they could also build independence.

While my Pokémon and I trained, I made sure to keep an eye on what Raiden was doing too. We’ve been travelling together for months now and whenever I got the chance I would watch him battle or train. He was my goal. He was the first Trainer I had ever battled and was the first one I had ever lost to. We battled a second time when I was a more skilled and accomplished Trainer and I still lost. I watched him to learn. I wanted to learn his methods, his strategies, and his tactics. I wanted to see if I could use them to make myself and my Pokémon stronger. I wanted to study them so that I could one day counter them and beat my Master.

Just like with me, he trained both his Pokémon and his body. He had Raikou out and was practicing different jabs, slashes, and swings with it. It was amazing to me how that spear was like an extension of Raiden’s body. He controlled it and moved as effortlessly with it as I did my fists. In a way I also understood the training it took to move like that. It took me a lot of time, effort, and concentration to use Dragon-forme on command. Even then I still falter with it when I lose my composer. Not him though. Raiden is poised and in complete control of his movements. Every move has purpose. No energy is wasted. I still have a long way to go before I am at his level.
-------------------------

In the end my training session lasted as long as it would have originally since Axel was unrelenting and my own competitive spirit had me fight him until we were both panting. I guess Zack was right about me. I am a battle junky.

“I hope you did not wear yourselves too much.” Raiden scolded nonchalantly.

“Nah, we’re fine. After we pick up Axel’s armor, I’ll get these six healed up and then we’re all going to take a nap.” I informed while wiping the sweat from my brow. “More importantly, now that I’m off probation, can I get a sword?” I asked with a big grin. Axel laughed at the very idea.

How scary!” the Infernape said still laughing.

“We do not have time to get you one for tonight, and you will not need one after this mission. This will most likely be the last time we see no holds barred combat where our lives are on the line.” he answered.

“So that’s it? After tonight Team Neos is done?” I asked.

“Not quite. I am sure I have mentioned this to you before, but Skylar, Feng, and I were once on the same squad with then-Lieutenant Ross as our commanding officer. I once heard her mention a Phase 1 which I assume to be what we are doing now. That means there is also a Phase 2, though I do not know what that would entail.” explained Raiden.

“Interesting. Hopefully it’s fun because otherwise I’m screwed by our no resignations policy.” I said with a shrug.

Yeah, that would just suck!” agreed Axel.

“Indeed.” Raiden affirmed. He then turned to leave with Axel and I following.
-----------------

I stopped to get my Pokémon healed up on the way to R&D. When Axel and I arrived back at the lab, Zack and Lloyd were already there getting suited up. Lloyd was wearing really sleek aqua blue armor that was obviously designed with swimming in mind. The chest plate went from Lloyd’s shoulders down to his waist and had a vertical ridge going down the center like a boat hull to make it hydrodynamic. The shoulders were round and separate pieces from the rest giving him full range of motion. They were smooth instead of ridged. There was also a piece that wrapped around his waist and hung down over his crotch and hips, shin guards, and arm guards on his forearm. The arm and shin guards had one ridge each. The only other part of Lloyd’s body that was covered was his head. He wore a helmet with five spikes to accommodate his four horns. The fifth spike was directly in the center of his forehead which, with the two horns on either side, gave the appearance of a trident. His forehead was still exposed so that his jewel was visible.

“Dude!” I said in awe.

Lloyd you look great! I hope my armor is that cool!” Axel complemented. It was the only time besides Masquerade where I had ever heard him excited about putting on an article of clothing.

“Pretty snazzy right?” Zack said almost bragging.

“I’ll say! Lloyd looks like a gladiator ready for battle!” I cheered on.

“He’s not ready yet. We only just finished getting his armor on. I still need to give him some of the items we got at the department store.” he corrected.

“Oh? What did you guys get?” I asked excitedly as if I were the one getting the present.

“The better question should be ‘what didn’t we get?’” said Zack with a laugh. I looked at his feet and noticed a shopping bag full of Item Balls.

“Damn. Did you buy the whole store or something?” I joked.

“Nah. They sell more than just Trainer stuff in there. I don’t really have use for capes ya know.” he said adjusting his glasses. I laughed.

“I don’t know why not.” I teased. “Anyway, let’s get you your armor!” I said to Axel changing the subject.

Yeah!” he agreed excitedly.

“Is my Infernape’s armor ready?” I inquired to the nearest scientist. She pulled out a digital key pad.

“Name?” she requested.

“Brian Xelbu. My Pokémon is Axel the Infernape.” I specified. She did a few key strokes.

“Yup. Right this way.” she said leading me to it. All around me my fellow Neos were putting their armor on their respective Pokémon. It was obvious that the armor wasn’t just tailor made for the Pokémon’s individual measurements but also to accommodate their species as well like with Lloyd’s. We arrived at a rack with a few Item Balls sitting on it with each ball individually labeled for who it belonged to.

“Here you are.” said the scientist taking a ball of the rack and handing it to me. “Hopefully everything fits and the specifications are to your liking. You have provided valuable research to us today.”

“You’re welcome I guess? But yeah, thanks for this!” I thanked gratefully. While I had no doubts Axel would kick major ass, I also didn’t want him hurt. I would go berserk again without a doubt and I wouldn’t care who saw me.

Let’s try it on!” Axel requested ambivalently. It would seem his natural dislike of clothes was beginning to overtake his enthusiasm.

“Let’s nap first. As awesome as the armor will be, I can’t imagine you can sleep too easily in it. It’s gonna be a long night and we both need our rest.” I pointed out.

Yeah true.” he said only slightly disappointed. “But let’s eat first!

“Deal!” I agreed. It was already after 7:00pm so it was well passed time to feed.
------------------

After dinner we took a three hour nap. When we woke up, I unveiled Axel’s armor for the first time and put it on him. Unlike Lloyd’s which was in parts, Axel’s was mostly one piece. The body armor covered his entire torso with three plates going over his crotch and hips and two long shoulder pads. Despite that, the material was very flexible. Like Lloyd’s it came with shin guards and arm guards but Axel’s were extended so that they covered the backs of his hands and the tops of his feet. My guess is Lloyd didn’t have that consideration because they would hamper his swimming while Axel was a brawler so they wanted to offer more protection to his limbs. The final piece of Axel’s armor was a crown that covered his forehead and had bits hanging down to cover his ears and frame his face. My guess is he got a crown not a helmet because of his flame. And speaking of flame, the armor was red like fire matching the Pokémon type it was made for. Overall, Axel had a very samurai look to him.

Nice!” Axel said with a smile looking himself over in a mirror. It would seem he finally made his decision on this particular outfit of his. I have to admit I’m kind of jealous that I don’t get fancy armor of my own. You can’t say it’s only for Pokémon because Arthias wears it too!

“You look pretty badass Axel.” I complemented.

I am a badass!” he corrected proudly.

“That you are!” I agreed. “Alright, let’s go meet up with the others.” We still had an hour until we were supposed to gather but I didn’t want to be late and risk getting left behind. There also wasn’t anything that I could do to kill an hour either other than socialize with my teammates.
------------------

At last the time had come! It was 11:25pm, just moments before Leader commanded us to assemble. My heart was pounding as the anticipation built up inside me ready to explode out! I looked around the room at my squad and the other members. Everyone was ready for the battle to come. The only difference I noticed on Lloyd was a black sash tied around his waist. I was sure that wasn’t the only thing Zack had gotten him, not with all those Item Balls he was carrying. He probably had them all on his person or stashed in Lloyd’s armor somehow. It was too late to ask him now since we’d be leaving soon so I would just have to wait until we get into battle to see what tricks he had up his sleeve.

“H-hey… B-Brian?” Chane asked nervously. “S-stay close t-to me ok.” I put my hand on her shoulder as reassurance.

“Don’t worry. This is no different than any of our other missions. You be your badass self, I’ll kill the Rockets you defeat. Besides, with this many of us here you’ll be perfectly fine.” I comforted.

“I… I know. I’m just so relieved that it’s finally going to be over. All the killing. All the violence. All the cruelty.” she listed off.

“Yup. Once we finish off Team Rocket, peace will come!” I stated. I decided not to tell her about Raiden’s assumption of Phase 2 since neither of us were clear on the details. Chane opened her mouth to speak, but was cut off by Leader’s voice echoing through the room.

“I hope all of you have made all of the necessary preparations. I see a lot more armored Pokémon than I did this afternoon. That’s good. Now!” Leader raised his right arm above his head. “We march to Celadon!” he declared dramatically pointing forward. “We march to the Game Corner and we don’t leave until Giovanni has been dealt with! Any Rocket who gets in our way dies! But do not harm any civilians! The gamblers in the Game Corner are to be left alone unless they attack us first! Do I make myself clear?”

“Yes sir!” we chanted.

“Then go towards the Route 7 exit!” he commanded.
--------------

With Leader at the head, we marched out of our underground headquarters, up Route 7, and into Celadon City. Our footsteps echoed through the streets from our sheer numbers. I wasn’t sure how many of us there were. Several hundred? Maybe even a thousand! People who were out this time of the night scattered the moment they saw us. Every last one of them looked terrified.

“Team Neos! What are they doing here? Why are there so many?” I heard someone cry out.

“Someone call the police!” I heard another person say.

“Police? We need the military!” another one said.

To us they were just idle chatter. Leader never stopped walking for a moment and none of us dared to stop either. Really the only ones who could stop without getting trampled would have been the people in the very back or the ones on either flank that could get out of line. But why would they want to? If the panicked cries of the Celadon residents was anything to go by, no one dared mess with us so long as we were together. And for that brief second I understood the Rocket mentality of strength in numbers. Together they were powerful but alone they were weak cowards. But unlike them I wasn’t scared of being by myself. I stayed with the group because I wanted this! I wanted to be a part of this battle! It didn’t matter if it was just my squad of five, the twenty-five person unit we had in the Sevii Islands, or if it was this massive mob. I was going to attack the Game Corner no matter what!

When we got to the Game Corner Leader raised his right hand telling us to halt. With that same hand he pulled out a large black claymore lined with red. With a mighty swing of his giant sword he shattered the glass doors of the casino. Inside, the carpet was wine red with yellow stripes on it, the lights were dim, and there were no windows. Slot machines lined the floor where we entered but further back I could see roulette tables, and card tables for black jack and poker. Cries of panic and fear erupted from inside as we walked in followed by the annoying sound of an alarm.

“SILENCE!” Leader roared to quiet the ignorant masses. In an instant everyone went silent with the only sound being the alarm. “Go back to your games. We have no interest in you. We are here for Team Rocket and Team Rocket only!” he told them.

“Hey! You’re a security guard right? Arrest these people or something!” some middle aged man ordered a husky guy wearing a security uniform. The guard took one look at us then turned back to the other guy.

“Do you see how many of them there are? Shit! They don’t pay me enough for this!” the guard said. He then turned to us. “You guys can do whatever the fuck you want just don’t hurt the guests.”

“So you’re just going to do nothing?” demanded a woman sitting next to the man, probably his wife or mistress.

“If you want something done do it yourself!” the guard retorted. In response to all the commotion, a lone Rocket came running around the corner. I expected him to flee the moment he saw us but instead he took out two Pokéballs, one in each hand!

LEEEEERRRROOOOYYYY JEEEEEEENKINS!!!!!” the Rocket shouted at the top of his lungs charging us head on! I was completely stunned by how much of an idiot this guy was!

“You’re a helpless fool!” Arthias mocked getting in position with his claymore. Before Leeroy could throw his Pokéballs, Arthias swung his sword horizontally cleaving the Rocket in two. Leeroy’s body continued to move forward due to his momentum but his upper body went left while his lower half went right. This once again got screams of panic and fear from the guests only this time Leader didn’t bother quieting them.

“The weaker they are, the louder they bark.” he ridiculed quietly.

“Did you see that?”

“Yeah! I guess that’s why they call him War God.” I heard two of my fellow Neos whispering to each other.

“Those of you in the back! Stay in the casino and guard this building. No one in, no one out! That alarm will have no doubt alerted the police by now. Keeping these people as hostages will insure that the police don’t try to stop us.” Leader commanded. I was so glad I was more towards the front-middle-ish part of the mob. I came here to kill Rockets and not even the High Commander will stop me!

The rest of us then made our way to the back of the casino where the Rocket had come from. That was most likely where the entrance to their hideout was. There was the sound of crunching glass as we walked on the pieces of the door near the entrance. We also had to maneuver around the pieces of Leeroy’s body which was bleeding out all over the floor.

In the back of the Game Corner was a poster promoting Rocket propaganda taped to the wall. Leader grabbed the poster and tore it down revealing a secret keypad behind it. Did those idiots really think they were hiding that? Leader punched the keypad but all that did was break it. He then started knocking on the wall slowly moving to the east wing of the building. Finally, by the time he reached the corner of the building he hit an area that sounded hollow. Arthias took out his claymore again and hacked at the wall until it crumbled revealing a hidden staircase.

“Let’s move!” he ordered. Without a word we slowly poured down the stairs into the Rocket’s base. I waited impatiently for my turn to go down since the stairs were too narrow for all of us to storm down at once. When I finally got down, we were in a wide open facility with white walls and brown floor tiles. Even down here there was an alarm going off flashing a red light everywhere.

“For those of you who just got down here, Leader’s orders were to fan out! We can cover more area if we spread out, but stay with your squad!” someone relayed over the alarm. I’m guessing it must have been one of the lieutenants.

“Will someone turn that damn thing off already?” Eve complained. I couldn’t blame her, I wanted it destroyed too.

“Intruder alert! Get them!” called a Rocket followed by a dozen or so more. At last! Show time! Unfortunately, before I could rush over to attack my prey, a large group of my fellow Neos engaged them first.

“There are too many of us in one area. We should spread out as Leader commanded.” Raiden pointed out. “Let us head deeper into the facility.”

“Fine!” I agreed enthusiastically.

I didn’t put this armor on for nothing! Let’s go beat the shit out of some Rockets!” declared Axel.

About 100 feet from us was another stairwell. I don’t know where Arthias went, nor do I know how many of us have already gone downstairs, but there was no harm in more of us going down. There were already more than enough Neos on this level to take care of business. My core squad along with a few dozen others stampeded to the lower level where more Rockets were waiting in ambush.

“We’ve got this! The rest of you go on ahead!” someone in the group in front of us advised. Ten Neos surrounded the Rockets to prevent them from escaping or coming after the rest of us.

“Do your best.” Raiden said to them. The one in charge nodded in thanks. “Let’s keep moving!”

I couldn’t help but snarl in frustration. Being in the middle of our horde had its advantage in that I didn’t get stuck guarding the casino, but I wanted to fight too! Aside from my friends there was still a bunch of other Neos running with us. I needed to break away and find Rockets of my own to battle. And will someone turn off that damn alarm already? As we entered and open area I heard a familiar click under my feet. Shit!

“Axel! Grab hold!” I called just as the blue arrows lit up beneath my feet.

Not again!” he cried wrapping his arms around my chest as we were pulled forward. Fucking Team Rocket! Of course you would have this dastardly booby-trap in this hideout as well!

“Brian!” I turned to the sound of my name to see Chane reaching for me. She was quickly pulled left as I was pulled right. I reached out my arm trying to grab her too. Our fingertips touched before we were pulled in different directions again. Dammit! I saw Eve but someone was thrown into me sending us both in another direction before I could even call for her.

“Zack! Lloyd!” I called out noticing they were still close to me. I reached for Lloyd since he was still in arm’s reach.

“Brian don’t!” Zack warned. I looked in the direction the arrows were taking me to see a wall that was getting ready to separate us. I pulled my arm back just as we both passed on opposite sides of the wall. I angrily punched at the wall but I got pulled backwards away from it before my fist could connect.

Even though I was already so dizzy I couldn’t see anything, I knew I was separated from my friends. Sure there were about six or seven other Neos with me, but Zack, Eve, Chane, and Raiden were who knows where! At least I can take solace in knowing they’re most likely with our other cohorts since I am too. All I could do now was wait to get dropped off somewhere.
***************************

A figure dressed in black leading troops dressed in light colors through a city to a destination where the unsuspecting enemy resides. That scene totally wasn't inspired by Order 66. Nope. Definitely not. <.>
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Chapter 43: First Blood

Man that was dizzying! Unless the person was already dead, I was now making it my personal mission to kill the jackass that made spinning floors a booby-trap. The only bright side was that the alarm had stopped ringing. Team Rocket obviously knew we were here already so there was no need for it anymore.

“Is everyone alright?” asked one of my cohorts. Everyone gave mostly positive responses as they started getting up. I remained on the floor waiting for the room to stop spinning while also trying to regain my bearings.

Hate them. Hate them so much.” Axel groaned.

“Same.” I concurred.

“Leader!” someone shouted. I looked up to see the armored figure of our High Commander standing in front of us.

“What are you all standing around for? Go down that corridor at once!” he commanded authoritatively, pointing down the hallway behind him.

“But Sir, those Spinner traps separated most of us from our squads. Shouldn’t we wait for them a few more minutes?” asked a Neos.

“Are you questioning my orders?” Leader demanded angrily.

“No Sir! We’ll go right away!” another one complied in a panic. Within moments the rest of the team fled down the halway leaving me as the only one still on the floor.

“What are you waiting for?” demanded Leader standing over me.

“Apologies Milord, but I’m still a bit dizzy. I’ll follow them in just a bit.” I said attempting to stand up but still a bit wobbly on my feet.

“Well hurry up!” he commanded. As he started to walk away, I noticed him walking with a bit of a limp. For a moment I wondered if he hadn’t injured himself on the Spinners, but then I felt Riolu’s Pokéball shaking. It couldn’t be.

“Don’t worry Milord, I’ll do my duty. I’ll massacre those worthless Rockets! Now please, find that swine Giovanni so that we can put an end to this useless organization.” The man masquerading as Leader let out an irritated growl at my insults.

“How dare you mock The Great Giovanni and the glorious Team Rocket!” he yelled. I smiled wickedly.

“Idiot! You’re far too emotional Petrel Lambda!!” I sneered grabbing the face beneath the black hood and pulling on it. Lambda screamed as his disguise dissolved back into Ditto as I tore it off of him. When the two were separated, I threw Ditto against the wall with an audible splat.

“How did you know it was me? Surely a Grunt like you would either respect or fear your boss enough that you wouldn’t question his authority?” berated the Executive. I only laughed at him.

“You don’t remember me? Oh I’m hurt.” I said sarcastically. “Axel, you’re crown.” I told him as I grabbed the sides of my hood. The look on Lambda’s face was absolutely priceless when we revealed ourselves to him. I wish I had a camera so I could get a picture!

“NO! NOT YOU!” he screamed in terror. Axel and I laughed mockingly at his plight.

“Yes me! I was hoping I would see you again. You caused me a lot of trouble Lambda, what with setting fire to Tin Tower, kicking me in the face, escaping, and of course sending an assassin after me. He’s dead you know.” I said starting of calm and getting more threatening as I spoke.

Bitch also tried kidnapping me and the other Pokémon.” added Axel. I looked at him cluelessly.

“When did that happen?” I questioned.

The spa treatment center in Saffron City we went to last Fall. Remember how we got terrible service? The place was Team Rocket run. If it weren’t for Lambda’s fear of you, we’d all have been captured.” he explained. I gave the monkey a blank but annoyed look.

“We’ll talk about you not telling me that later.” I told him sternly. I then turned back to my prey. “Right now you and I have some unfinished business to attend to!” I said with a fanged smirk. I know Raiden told me not to, but there are no other Neos around right now and I love instilling fear into this cowardly Executive!

“I won’t lose to you a second time! For the honor and glory of Team Rocket, I will be victorious!” promised Lambda proudly. “Go Koffing!” he called sending out a floating purple mine with dozens of smoke emitting pores all over its body. Underneath one of the most clueless faces in the Pokémon world was the skull and cross-bones warning of just how toxic this Pokémon is.

“Is that your best? I would think some one in your position would use their best right off the bat.” I taunted. “Oh well. Make quick work of it Beldum!” I announced bringing my Iron Ball Pokémon to the field.

“You’re the one who shouldn’t take me lightly! I am an Executive after all! Use Toxic Koffing!” the Rocket ordered haughtily. For being absolutely terrified of me one minute, he sure is putting on a brave face in battle. Does this idiot honestly think he can win? Koffing excreted a purple sludge from its pores that splashed over Beldum.

“Yes! Let’s see your Pokémon survive that!” mocked Lambda. I only stared at him with pity as his expression changed from prideful to ‘oh shit’ as the ooze ran off Beldum’s body leaving it completely unfazed. “But how!?” he shouted in bewilderment.

“Dumbass. Steel-types are immune to Poison, and not just the ailment. Sludge, Smog, and any other attack you were planning on using are absolutely ineffective against Beldum. Like I said, I ain’t playing around.” I ridiculed. As much as I would enjoy taking my time further humiliating Lambda, I do have a job to do and plenty more Rockets to slaughter.

“Now Beldum! Zen Headbutt!” I commanded. The Iron Ball Pokémon’s head took on a blue glow as it flew at Koffing like a rocket. The Poison-type roared in pain as Beldum hit it right between the eyes. Much to my surprise, my opponent had a wry smirk.

“So Beldum are a Steel-type eh? I told you not to get cocky with a Team Rocket Executive! Blast it with Flamethrower Koffing!” commanded Lambda. Igniting the gases in its body, the Poison Gas Pokémon released a long line of fire at Beldum who was unable to dodge at such close range.

“Try flinching it with Iron Head!” I called. Beldum powered through the assault, dispersing the flames as he went, until slamming its steel head into Koffing’s face. While the strike got Koffing to stop using its attack, Iron Head had been severely weakened and didn’t do much damage.

“Koffing! Use Thunderbolt now!” Lambda ordered. Koffing’s body crackled with electricity before releasing a powerful bolt of lightning on Beldum. My Pokémon wavered through the air a bit due to dizziness, but still held strong.

“Good job! Now take out Koffing with another Zen Headbutt!” I called victoriously. Beldum did as told, but Koffing also managed to hang in there. Just what was this thing made of? Perhaps I really had underestimated Lambda’s skill. Either that or I overestimated myself. No matter. In the end the one who walks away from this battle alive will be me.

“Attack with Gyro Ball Koffing!” the Executive commanded.

“Block with Iron Defense!” I countered. The Poison Gas Pokémon spun around and flew threw the air to strike Bedum, but was repelled by my Pokémon’s freshly hardened body which was shining with a fresh coat of metal.

“Now finish it with Take Down!” I continued. Beldum rammed its body into Koffing with enough power that it recoiled back from damaging itself. The sacrifice was well worth it though as Koffing fell to the ground fainted.

“No! How can this be?” lamented my foe calling back his fallen Pokémon.

“Because you are weak!” I ridiculed. My cocky grin faded slightly as I noticed something strange happening with Beldum. Its body was vibrating as magnetic waves manifested themselves around it. Beldum made a metallic screech as its body split in two laterally as if it were producing a second Beldum. The magnetic waves began to weave between the two ‘Beldums’, swirling in orbitals that formed a disc like shape. In a few short moments, Beldum was no more. In its place was a metallic blue disc Pokémon with hollow red eyes, a silver beak, and two Beldum for arms. It had evolved into Metang!

I laughed evilly at my luck. “What do you think of that Lambda?” I questioned with my smirk restored. Lambda’s jaw was dropped at the sight of my new Pokémon. The only sound that came out of his mouth was a pathetic squeak.

Hey dumbass! Send out a Pokémon so I can see Metang in battle!” Axel demanded. Just as my foe was readying his next Pokéball, another Metang rammed into mine with its own Take Down attack.

“What the hell?” I yelled.

Where did that thing come from?” wondered Axel. Lambda looked as perplexed as us for a second, but then got his wry smirk back.

“Ditto, is that you?” he asked the other Metang. It bobbled in response answering what I assume to be yes. “Excellent! We’ll beat that demon with his own Pokémon! Use Metal Claw Ditto!” The replica’s claws glowed silver before slashing my Metang for little damage.

“I thought you would have learned from last time. Metang! Use your own Metal Claw and show these copycats that the original is always better!” I cheered on. The Iron Claw Pokémon did the same as its doppelganger with similar results.

“Well if Metal Claw isn’t your cup of tea, why not try Confusion?” Lambda suggested. Ditto’s stolen eyes began to shine with an eerie blue glow that soon enveloped my Pokémon. Metang, however, seemed completely unfazed by the attack.

“Damn! I was at least hoping Metang would have been confused by that attack.” growled Lambda. I smirked superiorly at his failed attempt.

“You’re pathetic.” I mocked. “Metang! If Lambda thinks he can win by replicating your appearance and abilities, let’s show him we can beat him with his own tricks. Confusion!” I called. Metang did as told and, as to be expected, barely did any damage to the replica’s steel body. And yet the dizzy look in Ditto’s eyes showed that we had succeeded where the Rocket Executive failed.

“Ditto! Don’t let these fools out maneuver you! Smash them with Iron Head!” commanded my opponent. The Transform Pokémon flew at Metang with its head shining silver but completely missed my Pokémon resulting in it slamming into a wall. Axel and I started snickering at Lambda’s continuous failure.

“Stop mocking me!” he yelled turning red with anger and embarrassment.

“But you make it so easy.” I said innocently. “Put Ditto out of its misery with your own Iron Head!” I told Metang. My Pokémon chased down its double ready to slam it in the back.

“Block with Iron Defense!” Lambda commanded as Metang closed in. The fake’s body sheened silver just second’s before my Iron Claw Pokémon could finish it off. “Good. Now strike Metang down with Metal Claw!” ordered the Rocket.

“Block the attack with your own Iron Defense!” I called. The doppelganger swung its shining silver claws at Metang who easily repelled the attack with a freshly hardened body. “Now end this fabrication with Take Down!” I followed up. The real Metang reared back and then thrust forward striking Ditto hard. The pseudo-Metang staggered for a few seconds, but I knew this bout was over the second its form slowly degraded and it became Ditto again.

“But how? Ditto was supposed to be the stronger Pokémon! Even with evolution, Metang should have still been weakened enough by Koffing!” grieved Lambda trying to find reason in his recent loss.

“Metang was weakened by Koffing, that much is true. But I also threw Ditto into a wall and it hurt itself in confusion.” I reminded.

Besides, I don’t think Metang could go another round even if it wanted to.” Axel pointed out noticing how worn out his comrade was.

“Unless you want to die Lambda, bring out another Pokémon.” I cautioned as I recalled Metang and readied another Pokémon of my own. Lambda nervously reached for a Pokéball keeping a fixed gaze on me the whole time. It was as if he didn’t trust me not to attack him during this vulnerable moment.

“Raticate! Eradicate these Neos pests!” he called sending out a rat with course brown fur. What lame puns. Surely he can do better than Neopets and eradicate. Just by looking at his Pokémon, I was left wondering if it was a different Raticate or if it was the same one that had battled Riolu at Tin Tower and its teeth had grown back.

“Take it away Snorlax!” I called summoning my rotund bear to battle. He let out a big yawn and scratched his belly upon emerging on the field.

“Raticate! Attack with Hyper Fang!” Lambda ordered. The Rat Pokémon got down on all fours and ran at Snorlax with its fangs bared. When it was within range, Raticate sunk its teeth into the giant bear’s flesh until it drew blood causing Snorlax to make an uncomfortable grunt.

“Don’t worry Snorlax! I know how to make that pain go away! Use Belly Drum, then Rest!” I told him. Snorlax let out a low roar as he began pounding his large belly. The more pain he felt, the stronger he would become. The Sleeping Pokémon then yawned and lived up to his name by descending into a restful slumber that would restore his stamina while maintaining the previous Attack boost.

However, I had picked up a new tactic to add to that strategy while in the Battle Frontier. Just before completely fading to sleep, Snorlax lifted one of his stubby arms to his mouth. In one of his claws was a dark blue berry called a Chesto Berry. Chesto Berries have a kick to them as far as flavor went and they also have a chemical compound that act as a stimulant in them. In short, eating a Chesto Berry makes it pretty hard to fall asleep. After consuming his berry, Snorlax was instantly wide awake while still getting the healing benefits of Rest.

“You!” Lambda spat accusingly. “I wanted to be a nice guy, but if you’re just going to play by your own rules then I will too! Shred Snorlax to bits with Super Fang Raticate!” the Executive yelled. Raticate shrieked while running at Snorlax again, this time with its teeth glowing white.

“Defense Curl Snorlax!” I called quickly. The Sleeping Pokémon balled up, but that made no difference as Raticate savagely bit and tore at Snorlax’s body causing him to moan in agony as his blood spilled all over the floor.

“That’s enough! Flatten that rat with Rollout!” I commanded viciously. Snorlax pushed himself forward, but his injuries were causing him to have a slow start allowing Raticate to jump out of the way.

“Good work. Attack and then dodge Snorlax with Quick Attack!” called Lambda. I watched from the sidelines as the overgrown rat jumped into Snorlax and then pulled back as he chased after it. There were a few instances were Raticate couldn’t get back in time before getting run over, but it was Snorlax who overall took more hits. Luckily, in the battle of stamina, Snorlax’s superior strength and defense made the match up more even.

“Raticate! Hit Snorlax with Sucker Punch!” the Rocket ordered when Snorlax was rolling in for the final blow. The Rat Pokémon pulled back its fist then delivered a powerful punch to Snorlax which cancelled out his Rollout.

“This has gone on long enough! Snorlax! Finish Raticate with Giga Impact!” I commanded. Snorlax roared as he got to his feet and leaned backwards. Both Lambda and his Pokémon had serious ‘oh shit’ faces at the sight of the massive beast looming over Raticate. Snorlax slammed his girthy body into the rat causing it to shriek in pain as it was thrown across the room and smashed into a wall so hard the wall was cracked and dented. My Pokémon then fell on his belly from exhausting so much energy.

“No! Not Raticate too! What are you?” whimpered my opponent as he recalled his unconscious Pokémon.

“I’m a half human, half Dragon hybrid.” I answered flatly. “Though I believe you and your organization have taken to calling me a demon. Now I suggest you keep this battle going before I get bored and kill you.” I said straightforwardly.

“Well your Snorlax looks like it’s about had it! Golbat should be able to finish it off!” Lambda said haughtily calling the giant mouth with wings to the arena.

“You’re right. Raticate did quite a number on Snorlax.” I pulled out the rotund bear’s Ultra Ball and returned him for a deserved rest. “Aerodactyl will be Golbat’s opponent.” I declared sending out my prehistoric terror in Snorlax’s place.

“I doubt Aerodactyl is immune to poison! Use Toxic Golbat!” Lambda commanded. The nasty purple ooze bubbled up in Golbat’s large mouth, then the giant bat made a hacking sound sending the globs at Aerodactyl.

“Dodge with Agility!” I called. The Fossil Pokémon darted out of the way causing Toxic to splash harmlessly on the floor. “Now counter attack with Thunder Fang!” I continued. Aerodactyl gave a shrill screech as his serrated teeth crackled with electricity. Without mercy he bit into Golbat’s wing making it shriek in pain. The Bat Pokémon’s wing went limp with paralysis in Aerodactyl’s mouth so that when my ancient flyer let Golbat go, it fell to the ground unable to remain air born.

“No! Damn you! Golbat! Heal yourself with Mega Drain!” ordered the Executive desperately. I could tell by his tone he was getting nervous and rightfully so. This match was already decided. Golbat shot two green tendrils of energy from its mouth which dug into Aerodactyl’s legs to sap his energy.

“Sever those things with Wing Attack! Then use Rock Slide!” I commanded. The winged savage crossed his wings and then quickly uncrossed them slashing both of Mega Drain’s tendrils. He the screeched loudly before smashing his feet to the floor causing the light brown tiles to erupt along with a dozen chucks of the rock beneath. With another shriek, the unearthed boulders were hurled at Golbat leaving it to yell in pain as it was further injured.

“Come on you stupid Pokémon! Get at least one decent attack in! Try Air Slash!” my opponent yelled in frustration. The Bat Pokémon whipped its still usable wing in an arc sending a crescent shaped blade of air at Aerodactyl. My Pokémon lowered his head so that the attack bounced off of his stone-like hide.

“Put Golbat out of its misery with Stone Edge!” I called. Aerodactyl got a sadistic look on his face before once again slamming his feet into the ground. Four stone pillars burst out beneath Golbat shredding up its wings and leaving gashes all over its body.

“Well that takes care of that one. Do you have any more Pokémon? I have a job I need to get back to, but I don’t mind continuing the battle.”

“Weezing! You’re my only hope!” shouted the Executive throwing out what I presume to be his last Pokémon. I returned Aerodactyl and motioned Axel to the field.

“Please tell me you won’t blow up your Pokémon this time. I really hate anticlimactic endings.” I taunted.

“I would be completely out of Pokémon if I did that this time. Plus I only use that tactic as a means to escape and I’ll never abandon my own Headquarters!” the Rocket proclaimed proudly. I grinned. Good answer. Too bad he’ll still die.

“Alright Axel! Give Weezing a good ol’ fashion Combo 16!” I called.

I like that one!” yelled the monkey igniting his fists and feet and then laying the smack down on Weezing with a Fire Punch and Blaze Kick variety of Close Combat.

“Weezing! Blast that monkey with Sludge Bomb!” Lambda commanded. The Poison Gas Pokémon’s body slowly expanded and then rapidly contracted allowing it to excrete a blackish purple sludge from its many pores. Axel tried jumping out of the way of the attack but was still splashed by it. My Infernape looked somewhat perplexed by the attack before looking himself over.

Wow. This armor really does reduce the damage the enemy’s attacks do.” he commented.

“Good to know.” I said with a smile. “Now then, let’s see how sturdy that armor really is! Flame Wheel!”

Sounds good!” said Axel jumping up and curling into a flaming ball which spun through the air until hitting his target. Lambda looked justifiably concerned.

“Weezing! Um… Smokescreen! Hurry!” cried the Executive nervously.

“Not so fast! Axel! Taunt the bastard so they don’t run away!” I commanded just as the Poison Gas Pokémon was about to spew.

You got it! Hey Weezing! Fuck you!” harassed the Flame Pokémon giving his opponent the finger and sticking out his tongue. Weezing grunted angrily at the pestering.

“How dare you! I assure you I was not going to flee! As terrified as I am of you, it is my sworn duty to protect the honor and glory of Team Rocket!” shouted Lambda angrily.

“Well then, I guess I’ll make it easier for you to stay and fight. Trap Weezing with Fire Spin!” I called. Axel gave me a salute then blasted the siamese Pokémon with a spiraling flame trapping it in a fiery tornado.

“Use Double Hit Weezing!” ordered Lambda.

“Counter Axel!” I commanded. The Poison Gas Pokémon emerged from the swirling inferno attempting to smack Axel once with each of its two heads. The Infernape expertly blocked each hit with his palms and then punched Weezing in the face sending it back into the vortex of fire.

“Use Sludge this time!” shouted the Executive. More of the blackish purple ooze was shot from the flames splattering all over Axel.

“What do you think Axel? Shall we finish Weezing off now with Flare Blitz?” I asked the monkey. I got an excited smile in return.

We shalst!” affirmed my partner engulfing his body in fire. He jumped into Fire Spin like a flaming arrow, tackling Weezing out the other side. The Poison-type gave a weak groan as it fell to the ground with Axel landing on top of it. The Flame Pokémon stood up and brushed himself off while his vortex slowly faded away behind him. Lambda’s jaw was hanging limp as weak gasps of terror came from his mouth.

“Time to die!” I announced with casual excitement as I slowly walked towards the soon to be ex-Rocket Executive. Lambda looked up at me with tears in his eyes and gulped hard. Finally he broke down and started groveling at my feet.

“Please! Please don’t! Spare me, I beg of you! Please spare me!” he pleaded. He stood up with a horrified look in his eyes and backed up as fast as his legs would take him. With another nervous gulp he started forcing a smile which only made him look creepier.

“Y-ya know, I’m not such a bad guy. I’m actually a really nice person. I’m the kindest, most trustworthy, and nicest of all of the Rocket Executives! Think about it, I never once attacked you in our battle! I had the chance to several times, but I never attacked you. I never attack the trainer! Never! In fact, I’m so nice, I’ll even let you call me Uncle Petrel. You wouldn’t hurt ol’ Uncle Petrel would ya?” Lambda rambled. I pitied how pathetic he was making himself in his final moments. Still, he had made his point.

“Alright, alright. Stop embarrassing yourself. I’ll spare you.” I conceded. Lambda’s face brightened with joy and relief.

“Oh thank you, thank you, thank you! I promise you won’t regret this!” he vowed getting closer to me than he should have almost giving me a hug. I, in turn, gave him a devious grin. No. I won’t regret this. I drove my left palm through Lambda’s gut like a spear with my Dragon Claw. The former Executive puked up blood on my arm as a result.

“I agreed I’d spare you. I was going to kill you much more painfully for all the trouble you caused me, but all your begging annoyed me so much I decided to spare you the agony and just put you out of your misery quickly!” I told him maniacally. I then raised my right hand, which was glowing with the energy of Dragon Pulse, to his face. “Any last words?”

“Hail… Team Rocket… Long live… Gio--”

“Good bye.” I interrupted blowing off his head with an azure blast of draconic energy. His wheezing last words were just too long. As the decapitated body fell to the floor and the blood poured from the gapping holes in his torso and neck, I started laughing like the insane, evil lunatic I am.

“What was that Lambda? I’m sorry, you got cut off! Come on say it! I dare you! Say it again!” I demanded of the lifeless corpse between laughs. “Oh wait you can’t, can you? ‘Cause you don’t have a mouth. Oh you poor, poor, headless bastard!” I taunted continuing my crazy cackling some more. “Long live Giovanni. Ha! He’s lived long enough if Arthias has anything to say about it.” I promised darkly. “Well that was fun! Come along Axel. There are still more Rockets to slay.” I said cheerfully.

Yeah.” Axel agreed eagerly following me down the hallway the rest of our cohorts had gone down. The further we went, the louder the sounds of battle got. It made me wonder if that bastard Lambda hadn’t sent my comrades into an ambush while he was disguised. So help me if Team Neos wasn’t winning that battle I really will go on a killing spree!
 
Now, comparing the writing between this installment and the first, your flow of writing and dialogue has become a lot more natural. You've been at this endeavor for quite a while, and I admire the persistence you have, and the effort you put forth. As for blowing someone's head off, that just makes me giggle in devilish glee. >l: D
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Chapter 44: Second Struggle

Chane nervously crept down a corridor of Team Rocket’s Headquarters keeping a tight grip on Jace’s Pokéball in case she was attacked. By now she was confident enough in her and her Pokémon’s ability to defeat the Rockets, but the part that terrified her was what would happen after the battle. The kill order. Brian made it look so easy. He gave his Pokémon the order with as much effort as he would any other command in battle, and that was when he wasn’t snapping necks or impaling his enemies himself. Even in self-defense there was just no way Chane could bring herself to take a life. It didn’t matter how evil the person was, such an act was completely against her nature.

Until now, Chane had reluctantly let Brian do what he did best to her defeated foes but the Spinner traps had separated her from him and the rest of her squad. When the traps dropped her off, she was with around six or seven other members of Team Neos but she split off from that group at the earliest opportunity. The Rocket Game Corner was notorious for giving away Pokémon as prizes and the Rocket Warehouse on Chrono Island had cages in the back where captive Pokémon were stored. It stood to reason that this base would also have captive Pokémon stored somewhere close by to be distributed to casino winners. Chane would rather wander the Rocket’s Hideout alone and search for those Pokémon than risk being forced to kill. Besides, most of the Rockets should be busy battling Team Neos by now, right?

“Move it you worthless grunts!” someone yelled followed by the sound of dozens of footsteps stampeding around the corner heading in her direction. “Team Neos had the balls to invade our turf! Show them the wrath of Team Rocket! Leave none alive!” ordered the voice. Chane froze in place. Fate really was cruel. There was no way she could take on that many enemies at once! She looked around in a panic trying to find a way out of this. She noticed a doorway into a room a little further down the corridor. With only seconds before the Rockets would round the corner and spot her, Chane decided to take her chances with the room.

She ran for the doorway and lucky for her the room appeared completely empty of people. There were also a few tables and chairs making it easier to hide. Chane ducked under one of the tables praying desperately that no one had seen her. The footsteps of the Rockets continued passed the room up the hallway Chane had just gotten out of. She took a silent breath of relief. She was safe for now.

“Fuck this bullshit!” shouted the angry voice that had commanded the grunts, the owner now entering the room. “Those insolent fools! How dare they show up at our base!” he shouted slamming his fist on the desk Chane was hiding under. She let out an involuntary squeak at the clatter above her. There was a slight pause which made her all the more nervous. “And it sounds like there’s a rat in my office!”

The desk was violently flipped over exposing the young Neos girl to the Rocket. Chane looked up at the man she would now inevitably have to battle. Her face turned pale when she realized she knew her opponent for they had battle once before.

“L-L-Lance P-Proton…” she stammered nervously at the sight of the cruelest and scariest of the Team Rocket Executives. He responded with a wickedly sadistic grin.

“It seems my reputation precedes me. Even knowing who I am you chose to face me alone. You’re a brave one!” he complemented mockingly. “But that won’t save you!” The Rocket Executive reached down to grab her only for Chane to smack his hand away.

“Jace! Please protect me!” she called throwing the Pokéball containing her Pidgeot. The Bird Pokémon emerged with a mighty screech and his feathers puffed out as if warning Proton not to lay a finger on his Trainer. Proton glared at Jace then to Chane. His eyes narrowed as the memories came back to him.

“You! I may not remember all my victims, but I certainly remember the ones who get away. You’re that little bitch from Cinnabar Island!” spat the Executive angrily. Then his smirk returned. “No matter. This time things will be different. Your friends aren’t here to protect you this time. I’ll make you regret sparing my life!” Proton said pulling out a Pokéball of his own. “Kill her Golbat!” In a flash of light the large bat appeared shrieking at its prey.

“I… I won’t lose! I b-beat y-you once.” Chane said with determination. Proton however was unconvinced.

“Then why are you shaking? I’ll tell you why! You’re afraid, and for good reason. I will rip you apart! First your pathetic Pokémon, then you. You’re in my command center now little girl. When I’m done torturing you, death will seem like a generous escape!” the Executive threatened causing Chane to gulp fearfully.

“Th-that w-won’t happen. B-because I’ll w-win. P-please attack with Wing Attack Jace!” said Chane. She knew Proton was just playing mind games with her, trying to get in her head and shake her up. She knew she had to stay calm and focused. She needed to be like Brian and the others. Confident. Strong. Unwavering. She needed to remember that time on Cinnabar Island. She needed to remember Brian’s words of encouragement: ‘Stand up, be strong, and believe in yourself.’ She beat Proton once, she could do it again!

“Blast that bird with Toxic!” ordered the Rocket as Jace flew in to smack the Bat Pokémon. Golbat coughed up a purple gob that splattered on the Pidgeot’s feathers and proceeded to seep into his skin. Jace yelled out in pain as the poison entered his blood stream making him feel incredibly ill.

“No! Jace!” cried Chane.

“Now hit it with Sludge Bomb!” called the Executive.

“Hurry! Use Quick Attack!” Chane countered. The eagle dashed at his opponent with incredible speed hitting it with a strong tackle before it could spit another dose of poisonous ooze at him. The Bird Pokémon lifted his wing to follow up on his previous command, however the poison was taking its toll causing him to wince. Golbat took advantage of the hesitation to spit up its Sludge Bomb dealing a great deal of damage to the Pidgeot.

“Good work! Hit the Pidgeot with Confuse Ray and then Bite it!” Proton commanded.

“Use Mirror Move please Jace!” requested Chane. Golbat glared at Jace sending a ghostly white light from its eyes. The Bird Pokémon took the attack only to reflect a similar white light of his own at Golbat. Both Flying-types looked dizzy from the attack, Jace looking increasingly worse for wear. The Bat Pokémon fluttered as if in a drunken stupor trying to recall what it was supposed to be doing. One look at Chane though and it recalled its command to Bite. Golbat let out a high pitched shriek as it dive bombed at Chane.

“No!” she yelled pulling down the sides of her hood in a flinch. The ever vigilant Pidgeot slammed Golbat in the back with Steel Wing causing it to hit the floor instead. “Thank you Jace.” said Chane in relief. Her moment of joy was short lived though as her Pokémon was looking progressively more sickly by the moment. “Rest for a bit. Recover your strength with Roost.” she said gently. Jace nodded in agreement taking a comfortable perch on the remaining desk to rest.

“Get up you stupid bat! They’re vulnerable! Hit the bird with Air Slash!” commanded Proton. Golbat got up and sliced its wing through the air sending a white crescent of wind at the eagle.

“Please also use Air Slash!” called the young Neos. Jace also slashed his wing sending another crescent at Golbat’s. The Bird Pokémon proved himself as the stronger of the two as his Air Slash cut through Golbat’s attack and struck the Poison-type while the latter’s attack fizzled out after being broken. The Rocket Executive growled in anger at his attack being thwarted. Looking at the worn out Pidgeot, he figured he could at least take solace in knowing it would die soon if it wasn’t treated.

“What are you going to do my little Neophyte? If this keeps up, your Pidgeot will die. But if you recall it to its Pokéball, you die. What’s more valuable to you girl?” taunted the Executive malevolently. Chane hesitated as she looked back and forth between Jace and Proton. Her Pokémon were everything to her. It pained her every time they were hurt in battle. She would be devastated if anyone of them were killed. Likewise, if she died in a place like this, who would protect them from Team Rocket? Just the thought of anything happening to her or her Pokémon terrified her. There was only one way out of this.

“Please protect us Luna!” Chane requested sending out her Lunatone. “You did an amazing job. Thank you Jace.” she said warmly to her eagle as she returned him to the safety of his Pokéball. The Rocket Executive scowled at the recent change in events.

“You little bitch! I’ll teach you the wrath of Team Rocket! Poison that one with Toxic as well!” commanded Proton. More of the noxious purple ooze boiled up in Golbat’s mouth before it hacked the sludge at Luna.

“Protect yourself!” said Chane urgently. A pale misty barrier of moonlight shown around Luna’s body repelling the Toxic ooze. The Meteorite Pokémon maintained its barrier until the viscous liquid slid to the floor. “Now please take Golbat out of the fight with Hypnosis.” Chane followed up. Luna stared at Golbat with its piercing red eyes sending relaxing psychic waves at the Bat Pokémon. Golbat’s eyes began to droop and its breathing became more tranquil until it fell out of the air onto the floor.

“No! Get up! You damn stupid Pokémon! I order you to wake up!” shouted Proton furiously.

“It’s asleep and unable to fight. Please either switch it out or give up.” Chane advised in a measured tone. The Rocket Executive gave her a vicious glare.

“You! How is it that such a disgusting pacifist like yourself is so strong!? It’s hideous! Why the hell are you even here if you don’t like to fight?” he demanded. Chane remained quiet, shifting her eyes side to side. “Tell me!” shouted the Executive.

“Because you hurt Pokémon! P-people like you… y-you’re monsters! How c-can you hurt s-such wonderful creatures and not care?” responded Chane passionately.

“I’ll tell you why. Pokémon are nothing but tools. The reason they are such ‘wonderful creatures’ as you call them is because of their power and usefulness to humans. The pathetic and weak ones are nothing but trash. The common ones are just everyday commodities. And the rare and powerful ones are the most profitable and useful.” Proton scoffed.

“Y-you… you really are… y-you really are the cruelest member of Team Rocket.” stammered the young Neos member almost on the verge of tears at such a harsh statement.

“I am the cruelest. But you forgot scariest! Now let me remind you why I am called the cruelest and the scariest of the Team Rocket Executives!” Proton picked up one of the chairs and smashed it against Golbat’s back. The Bat Pokémon woke up with a shriek of pain. The Rocket Executive carelessly threw the chair aside.

“How could you do that to your own Pokémon!?” Chane screamed in horror.

“I can do whatever I want to my possessions! Now Golbat! Poison Fang!” the Rocket ordered. Golbat flew to the Meteorite Pokémon and bit down but had trouble sinking its venomous fangs into Luna’s rock hard body.

“Please finish Golbat with Psychic Luna.” Chane said. A pink glow surrounded both Pokémon, but Golbat was the one screeching in pain as the attack pulled at every muscle in its body and neuron in its brain. Finally the Bat Pokémon passed out from exhaustion.

“Son of a bitch!” shouted Proton furiously. “You worthless creature!” The Executive recalled his fallen Pokémon and readied another one.

“Y-you would win if you treated y-your Pokémon better.” Chane said nervously, aware that her comment was probably falling on deaf ears.

“Don’t preach that bullshit to me little girl! Come out Weezing! Kill them!” called the Rocket Executive summoning his Poison Gas Pokémon. “Suffocate all of them with Smog!” Weezing opened its mouths belching out a thick black cloud of toxins.

“Safeguard Luna!” called Chane. A white veil surrounded both the Lunatone and its young Trainer from the deadly effects of the smog reducing it to just smelly air.

“Damn you!” growled Proton. “Blast them with Sludge Bomb!” The Siamese Pokémon contracted its body excreting the powerful sludge from its pores.

“Use Light Screen please!” Chane requested. A pink barrier appeared around Luna reducing the effects of Weezing’s attack.

“What!? Are you so scared you can’t attack? All playing defense does is delay the inevitable!” the Rocket taunted. “Weezing! Blind them with Smokescreen!” The Poison Gas Pokémon spat out a thick black haze that completely obscured the area. “Now hit them with Dark Pulse!” Luna howled an otherworldly cry as a wave of darkness hit her from an unknown location. The sound of chairs being knocked around from the attack could also be heard through the smoke.

“W-we have to get rid of this smoke! Luna, could you please use Shadow Ball?” Chane asked. The Lunatone howled as it gathered every ounce of darkness in the room, including the smoke, into one giant ball which it then launched at Weezing. The Rocket’s Pokémon cried out from being hit with such a powerful attack.

“I’m not done yet little girl! Thunder!” the Executive commanded. The Siamese Pokémon’s body expanded as it built up electricity then rapidly contracted sending all of that pent up energy at Luna. The Meteorite Pokémon was hit straight on with the powerful lightning.

“No Luna! Hang in there! U-use Psychic!” Chane encouraged.

“You’re done! Destiny Bond Weezing!” the Rocket ordered. Chane wanted to stop Luna from executing the attack but it was already too late. Weezing was surrounded by the psychic aura. The Poison Gas Pokémon shot a ghostly white beam from its body at Luna linking them. Luna let out a painful howl as all of its energy was sucked away with Weezing’s. Both Pokémon fell to the floor unconscious.

“Luna, I’m sorry.” apologized Chane regretfully. She lamented the fact that she had been so careless and let her Pokémon faint.

“Oh I’ll make you sorry. I’ll make you sorry you ever crossed Team Rocket! Show this little girl the wrath of Team Rocket Machoke!” commanded Proton sending out a tall humanoid Pokémon with large muscles, grey skin, a slightly protruding muzzle with four fangs in its mouth, and a tan crest on its head. The Pokémon wore a black speedo and a large golden belt with a red letter ‘P’ on it. At least it was a ‘P’ but obvious tampering to the belt had turned it into a red ‘R’ to match the logo of Team Rocket. The Superpower Pokémon yelled showing it was ready to follow its master’s orders.

“Help me Kermit!” the young Neos requested sending out her Azumarill. The Aqua Rabbit Pokémon’s eyes glowed with the determination to assist his Trainer anyway he could. “Please support yourself with Aqua Ring.” advised Chane. Kermit complied spraying a halo of water around his head to heal any minor injuries he might sustain.

“Machoke! This girl has made a mockery of me for too long. I want to teach her the meaning of fear. I want her to know what true agony really is.” Proton said sadistically as he clenched his fists. “Remove your Power Save Belt!” he ordered. The Superpower Pokémon turned to its master with a horrified look on its face as if begging for any other command but that one. “You heard me! Do it!” the Executive berated furiously. Machoke shook its head with the look of fear in its eyes.

“How dare you defy me!” Proton pulled a switch blade knife out of his pocket and slashed at Machoke’s belt.

“Proton no! It doesn’t want too!” Chane begged desperately.

“Shut up girl!” retorted the Rocket slashing again. Machoke was left with a bleeding cut in its waist and a tear in its speedo but the belt had been removed. The metal power limiter fell to the ground with a loud clang. The Superpower Pokémon let out an agonized scream as all of its power came rushing to the surface. Every muscle in its body bulged. The increased blood flow throughout its body to power those muscles turned its skin red. The Power Save Belt as it was called served as a psychological restraint helping Machoke regulate its strength and control how much of its muscle power it used at any given time. Without it, the Superpower Pokémon would be completely out of control exerting 100% of its muscular strength. So much power entering its body at once caused Machoke to go into a berserk rage and its eyes to go white.

“H-how could you…? L-look what y-you’ve done to your own Pokémon! Y-you… w-w-wicked… evil…” Chane stammered in dismay. Proton only cackled evilly.

“You complement me little girl. This is the true might Team Rocket lives for! Machoke! Show her true power! Cross Chop!” the Rocket Executive commanded. The out-of-control Superpower Pokémon lifted up its massive arms and swung them down at Kermit.

“Get out of the way Kermit!” screamed Chane. The Azumarill dodge rolled under Machoke’s legs just as the arms came crashing down. The impact of its unrestrained strength smashed the floor and sent shockwaves throughout the room. Chane fell to the floor unable to keep her footing. Over the sounds of battle Proton had his left hand over his eyes with his head tilted back laughing wildly.

“Yes! That’s it! Crush them! Get the girl!” he ordered. The monster reached up to slam its palm into Chane.

“Kermit!” Chane cried. The Aqua Rabbit Pokémon got up and blasted Machoke in the back with Hydro Pump. The Superpower Pokémon screamed at the powerful gushing water striking its back. In true berserker fashion, Machoke turned its attention to Kermit and recklessly charged at him.

“Kermit! Move!” begged his Trainer. The Aqua Rabbit Pokémon jumped out of the way of the stampeding giant causing it to smash through the table reducing it to splinters. Machoke roared swinging its arms wildly. The Azumarill just happened to be within range when one of the giant masses struck him with the force of a sixteen wheel truck.

“KERMIT!!” screamed Chane as the Pokémon smacked against the wall letting out a weak yelp and falling limp to the floor. Chane quickly returned the Aqua Rabbit Pokémon to his Lure Ball.

“Please be alright. I’m so sorry Kermit. Please be ok.” Chane whispered to the Pokéball as tears fell from her eyes. Machoke made a cry that sounded like a harbinger of death as it made its way to Chane. “Izzy! Stop that monster!” the young Trainer called sending out the Mushroom Pokémon.

“Crush them!” Proton ordered gleefully. Machoke lifted its arms to punch Izzy. The Breloom struck faster with Mach Punch lobbing Machoke right in the stomach. Izzy knew Chane was too terrified and disgusted by the abomination Machoke had become to think fast so she did the thinking for her Trainer.

The berserker screamed in anguish as its power started to take its toll. Its muscles were exerting so much power they were beginning to tear. The ligaments were snapping from the bone while the increased blood pressure to power the muscles caused blood vessels to burst. Chane covered her mouth desperately trying not to throw up at the sight of the unfortunate Pokémon’s body falling apart at the seams.

Machoke’s screamed in a mix of agony and rage. The Pokémon’s sense of reason had completely devolved from a lack of blood and oxygen reaching the brain leaving it nothing more than a berserk rampaging monster. It flailed its arms smashing the chairs. It slammed its fists on the floor breaking up the tiles and sending massive tremors across the room.

“Damn you Machoke! Focus! Get her!” ordered the Rocket Executive furiously. His words could no longer reach the Superpower Pokémon though as it continued its indiscriminant rampage.

“Izzy. Please. Stop Machoke. It shouldn’t suffer like this.” begged Chane who was now crying for the suffering Pokémon. The Mushroom Pokémon nodded in understanding. She released a cloud of blue Spores to try to make Machoke fall asleep. The mutant roared as the dust entered its eyes. It began violently clawing at its face to remove the Spores tearing away the skin below its eyes in the process down to the bone. Machoke turned to face the Breloom and her trainer. Its eyes were so bloodshot and swollen the scleras were a deep crimson. Blood poured from its tear ducts.

The monster screamed as it lifted its hulking arms to smash Izzy beneath its giant fists. The Breloom expertly blocked the Superpower Pokémon’s attack and channeled its immense strength into her tail. Izzy spun around slamming her tail into Machoke’s side for a powerful Counter attack. Machoke coughed up a mouthful of blood before falling to the ground defeated. Izzy then collapsed to one knee completely exhausted from her battle.

“No! Fuck! You!” Proton yelled turning a furious gaze on Chane. The young Neos channeled as much courage as she could to face her adversary.

“I… I’ve beaten you. Now please surrender.” she requested. She was now more upset with Proton than she was scared of him. Proton’s glare became fiercer.

“You think you’ve won just because all of my Pokémon are defeated?” he questioned. “Wrong! As long as I can still fight, you’re dead.” he said holding up his switchblade and licking the shimmering blade. “Let’s play little girl. I’m going to enjoy taking my time with you.” The Rocket Executive slowly walked towards Chane throwing the knife between his hands back and forth. He wanted the terror to sink in and to last as long as possible.

“S-stay back!” warned Chane. She had no idea what she was supposed to do. Have Izzy attack Proton? She was worn out from her fight with Machoke and Proton had a weapon. She could fight back, but again he had a weapon and was probably stronger than her anyway. Sensing her Trainer’s hesitation, Izzy got up and stood between Chane and Proton with her arms spread.

“Out of my way Pokémon!” yelled the Rocket smacking Izzy with his right hand. Had the Breloom not been so worn out from her bout with Machoke, she would have been able to stand up to the Executive better but was instead knocked to the ground. Proton gave Chane a sadistic smirk. “You just stand there and watch me kill your Pokémon.” he said throwing his knife back to his right hand.

“NO!” Chane screamed jumping on Proton’s back to protect Izzy. The Executive yelled as he staggered side to side and backward trying to maintain his balance.

“Get off of me you little bitch!” he shouted reaching back with his free hand and grabbing Chane. He violently threw her off and on to the floor. The Rocket then grabbed her by the arm and pulled her back to her feet. “I want to see the fear in your eyes! Let’s have a look at that pretty face shall we!” Proton pulled back Chane’s hood with his knife hand and put the blade against her throat. Chane froze as she frantically thought of a way out of this.

“Don’t worry, I won’t kill you yet.” he said in a soft yet malicious tone. “I want to enjoy you as much as possible. Now where should I cut you first?” Proton lowered the knife to her chest. With the blade away from her throat, Chane could finally let her primal instincts take over.

“Get back!” she screamed kneeing Proton in the groin. The Executive screamed as he fell to the ground. With the Rocket incapacitated Chane ran for the exit. “Izzy return!” she called holding out the Breloom’s Pokéball. Izzy was dematerialized and sucked back to the safety of her ball.

Having caught his second wind, Proton kicked Chane in the back of the legs causing her to fall. He got up stood over her with a wrathful glare.

“Just where do you think you’re going girl?” he growled angrily. “It seems you have a little fight in you after all, but it’s not over until I say it’s over! And we’re just getting started! Now feel the wrath of Team Rocket!” Chane grabbed for Celia’s Pokéball but before she could call for her Pokémon’s aid she heard a zombified moan.

Machoke had gotten up looking and smelling like death itself. Buildup of lactic acid in the muscles from lack of oxygen had caused the tissue to begin dissolving. The Pokémon’s consciousness was all but gone, but it still had one vague memory. The memory of the man who had condemned it to such a gruesome fate.

“What the!?” Proton yelled as Machoke grabbed him in a tight bear hug and began crushing him. “Let go! I am your master! I command you! Let g-AAAAAAAHHHHHH!!” he screamed as every bone in his body was shattered and every organ ruptured. Blood started bursting from every available orifice on his body; mouth, nose, ears, and eyes were just the visible ones. The Rocket Executive’s final thought was how this was such a hideous way to die.

With so much exertion on its part, Machoke’s body could no longer handle the stress of so much power. Its muscles were in shreds and its bones were fracturing from the stress. The once Superpower Pokémon collapsed to the floor unable to endure its suffering any longer.

As for Chane, the horrible odor and sight of the decaying Pokémon and gruesome fate of the Rocket made her sick to her stomach. She had to cover her mouth and nose just to avoid puking. She ran out of the room as fast as she could and began crying for the horrible fate that befell Machoke. She could see why Brian hated these people so much. In her time with Team Neos Chane had seen the evils of Team Rocket, but this went well beyond that. This was the most horrible thing she had ever seen in her eighteen years of life.

Chane deeply regret separating herself from the other members of Team Neos now. Her first priority however was to look for a safe place she could rest and heal her Pokémon at. Hopefully a place where there wouldn’t be any more Rockets. She still didn’t want to cross the line of killing someone nor did she want to be put in that position again. After that, she would seek out her fellow teammates. She could worry about any captive Pokémon once Team Rocket was dealt with.
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Another week, another chapter

Chapter 45: Third Offense


It amazed Eve to no end how incompetent people could be. She had been separated from her squad by those Spinner traps and the group of Neos Officers she ended up with were trying to figure out how to get back despite her protests that they keep moving. From her experience in the Warehouse, the things were just a big circle anyway. Eventually they’d end up back to where they came from but for now taking care of the Rockets should have been first priority.

“HELP ME! AAAHHHH!” someone screamed. The cries echoed from the bottom of a nearby staircase.

“Oh joy. Someone just died.” Eve said uncaringly. She looked to the rest of the group who were still mulling over the Spinners. Did they not hear that scream? What a bunch of useless idiots!

Eve turned to the staircase. There were only three possible reasons for what was going on down there. A member of Team Neos just defeated a Rocket, a high ranking Rocket just killed a weak Neos who should not have even been on this mission, or somehow Brian was involved. Either way Eve was compelled to investigate. In the case the killer was with Team Neos, she had an ally who was hopefully smarter than the idiots she was currently with. If the assassin was a Rocket then surely they’d be weakened enough to be easily picked off. She ran down the stairs curious as to what awaited her at the bottom.

“Good work Blade. Return!” said a male Neos summoning a Scizor back to its Sport Ball. Where the Scizor had been standing was the body of a Rocket.

“Nice job.” Eve complemented. The guy seemed startled at first not expecting someone else to be in the room but then relaxed when he saw she was one of his teammates.

“Thanks. As expected, these Rockets are weak.” he said mocking his fallen enemy.

“Tell me about it. Even the Executives are pitifully easy.” she said remembering how effortlessly Ariana Sham fell to her. Eve’s smile disappeared when she saw a long purple serpent stealthily slithering up behind her comrade. “Behind you!” she called pointing to the snake. The Neos only had time to turn around before the Arbok sprang up and sunk its fangs into his neck injecting deadly venom. The Neos choked and then fell limp in the Cobra Pokémon’s mouth. Arbok released its victim then turned its vertical pupiled eyes at Eve.

“Steelix!” she called sending out her metallic serpent as a deterrent to the enemy Pokémon.

“You really shouldn’t spread lies like that. You’ll tarnish the pride of Team Rocket if you do.” chastised Ariana coming into view.

“It’s not a lie if it really happened. I beat you once already, you can be damn sure I’ll do it again!” boasted Eve. The Executive scowled.

“I should have guessed from your sleazy uniform that you’re that crass bitch from Chrono Island!” she spat.

“Aww, don’t be mad just because I’m still pretty enough to actually wear sexy outfits and you’re old, fat, and ugly.” Eve taunted taking the remark as a complement. She had interacted with the Rocket Executive before so she knew exactly which buttons to push. It made her all too easy to manipulate and control during battle.

“This time I will KILL YOU!” yelled Ariana. “Freeze Steelix in place with Glare Arbok!” she ordered. The Cobra Pokémon gave Steelix a fierce gaze but Steelix had no interest in making eye contact with what he considered to be a lesser Pokémon.

“Steelix, kindly remind Ariana why bigger is better! Earthquake!” called Eve. The giant snake slammed his massive head to the floor cracking the titles and causing the room to shake.

“Give Steelix a taste of its own medicine! Use your own Earthquake!” Ariana commanded. Arbok also slammed its body to the floor but its tremors weren’t nearly as effective.

“Were you always this weak?” questioned Eve innocently. Battles were no fun to her. It was the banter during the battle that she found exciting. Would the opponents fall for her taunts and become easy picking? Would they fight even harder just to shut her up? How far were they willing to take things? Eve knew the answers to these questions from her last battle with Ariana, but seeing the Executive’s responses was still amusing.

“Shut your mouth!” barked Ariana. “Arbok! Bite Steelix with Fire Fang!” The serpent slithered towards its gargantuan foe with flames pouring from its mouth. It then snapped at the Iron Snake Pokémon sinking its blazing fangs into him. Steelix roared furiously at the smaller snake.

“Well smack it away with Iron Tail!” Eve told her Pokémon. Steelix grinned with malicious delight as his tail sheened silver. He swatted Arbok away like a parasite and then to add insult to injury bashed his cranium into the Cobra Pokémon with Iron Head.

“Now! Glare!” called Ariana quickly. Arbok gazed into the metallic serpent’s eyes before he could turn away paralyzing him. Steelix growled angrily at his predicament.

“You did that to yourself you know.” Eve chided. Sometimes that brute was too narrow-minded for his own good. “But ok. Trap Arbok in Sand Tomb!”

“Not so fast! Attack the Trainer while she’s vulnerable!” Ariana interrupted.

“You are so stupid! I am never vulnerable!” chastised Eve. A whirlwind of sand blew up between her and Arbok before the serpent was even in striking range. Eve relaxed her hand from Diva’s Dusk Ball. Had Steelix been too slow, the specter would have ended this battle. She would never allow herself to be vulnerable. Never.

“Why? Why can’t I just kill you!” yelled Ariana in frustration.

“Because I’m better than you?” suggested Eve saying each word slow enough that her opponent would understand. The Rocket was not amused by the condescending remark.

“Laugh it up bitch! When I’m through with you, you’ll be just like him!” spat the Executive pointing to the dead Neos member.

“I’ll admit, I was impressed with your ambush. I guess even weaklings can win if they attack an opponent when their back is turned. But really? Where is the fun in that?” mocked the Neos Officer. Ariana smirked triumphantly.

“The fun comes from distracting your foe long enough to see their horrified reaction when Sand Tomb wears off.” boasted the Rocket Executive victoriously. As she said that, the sand tornado billowing around Arbok dispersed leaving the snake free to strike its prey. Instead of being scared though, Eve returned her adversary’s sneer.

“I couldn’t agree more.” she said sweetly. Before the Cobra Pokémon could even move it was snatched off the ground in its opponent’s jaws. There were only six beings in this world that Eve fully trusted and all six of them were literally attached to her hips. With her wit and their power they would always be in control of any battle.

“What!? How did it?” stammered Ariana at a loss for words. Eve was rolling with condescending laughter.

“You really should keep your eyes on the entire battle rather than just focus on one area. Just because Steelix is paralyzed doesn’t mean he still can’t get close enough to his foe to attack.” she ridiculed. “Isn’t that right?” she called up to him. Steelix answered by thrashing his head side to side with Arbok clutched tightly in his maw.

“Arbok! Break free! Use Fire Fang! Ice Fang! Aqua Tail! I don’t care!” shouted the Rocket Executive.

“What’s this? Do I detect concern for your Pokémon? That’s an unusual trait for a Rocket to have.” teased Eve.

“Of course! I can’t win without them!” retorted Ariana.

“Oh of course you can’t!” said Eve faking empathy. “Which is why Steelix is going to finish Arbok off right here and now!” she said dramatically throwing her arm in the air. The Iron Snake Pokémon increased the pressure in his Crunch until Arbok fell limp. When Steelix released his victim it was in two separate halves. Ariana looked in horror at her dead snake.

“When I said finish it, I didn’t mean finish it.” Eve reprimanded. Of her Pokémon, Steelix was the most brutal and the one least likely to hold back. Walrein was second, but not nearly as unforgiving. Ironically her two boys. Eve blamed the testosterone.

“So you’re going to kill my Pokémon is that it?” Ariana accused venomously.

“Not intentionally.” Eve said innocently.

“Then don’t expect yours to get out unscathed either! Let’s go Muk!” the Rocket called sending out the smelly pile of sludge. “Smash Steelix with Focus Blast!” The Sludge Pokémon concentrated creating a ball of energy between its hands which it then threw at Steelix. The metallic serpent’s body was too stiff from paralysis to dodge so he had no choice but to brace himself. The blast exploded on his body and with a weak roar, Steelix collapsed.

“Your turn Nidoqueen!” called Eve switching her Pokémon in one swift motion.

“What’s wrong? Scared I’d attack you or your fallen Pokémon?” taunted Ariana.

“You’re about as scary as your dead friend right there.” Eve said referencing the Rocket Blade killed. “I just know you’re the cowardly type to go after people and Pokémon you think can’t defend themselves.” she explained sweetly.

“The award for scariest Executive certainly belongs to Executive Proton, but I’m no slouch either! Blast her with Dark Pulse!” Ariana commanded. Muk gathered the darkness around it then blasted the dark waves at Nidoqueen. The monster rabbit was pushed back but looked no worse for wear.

“If you can actually beat me, then I will concede that you are scary. But until then you’re just a joke!” Eve mocked. “Use Earthquake Nidoqueen!” Nidoqueen jumped up and slammed all of her weight into the floor causing the room to shake once more. Eve noticed the floor beneath the Drill Pokémon starting to sink meaning there was another floor beneath this one. She made a mental note not to use Earthquake anymore lest she wanted her own Pokémon crashing through the floor.

“So I’m just a joke to you? Laugh at this then! Muk! Screech!” the Executive ordered. The Sludge Pokémon made a horrible shriek causing Nidoqueen to hold her ears. “Now use Rock Tomb!” Muk materialized several large boulders that it hurled at the monster rabbit which smashed on her and slowed her down by making it harder to maneuver.

“Oh believe me, I’m laughing on the inside.” Eve retorted. “Thank you for the ammo by the way! Show cum face our appreciation with Rock Smash and Rock Slide!” The Drill Pokémon broke up the boulders into smaller pieces that she then hurled at Muk. Nidoqueen then ran up to the pile of filth with two larger stones in her hands that she personally smashed into it.

“I guess it’s my turn to thank you for getting into close range! Use Ice Punch and Shadow Ball Muk!” commanded Ariana. Muk’s fist became covered in frost as it lobbed a Super-effective punch to Nidoqueen’s solar plexus. The Sludge Pokémon then created a ball of swirling shadows between its hands which it launched at the still stunned monster rabbit. Nidoqueen was pushed back further only managing to stay standing by using her tail as balance.

“You act like I don’t know how to play rough. Nidoqueen! See if Muk likes being cold as much as you do! Use Blizzard!” called Eve. Nidoqueen took a deep breath before letting lose a bone chilling wind that solidified the water molecules in the air into an icy winter storm. It may not have turned Muk into a block of ice but it was definitely cold after that attack.

“Since you’ve been fond of using two attacks at once, I think I will too! Follow up with Earth Power!” she continued. Nidoqueen dug her foot into the floor and kicked up the floor tiles instead of dirt. The effect seemed to be the same however as Muk was completely exhausted.

“Steal your energy back with Giga Drain!” the Rocket ordered. The Sludge Pokémon sent three green tendrils from its finger tips that tied themselves around Nidoqueen’s neck and arms.

“Be careful what you wish for.” Eve said mischievously. “Use Body Slam Nidoqueen!” The Drill Pokémon charged at her opponent throwing her whole body on top of the sludge pile. The fading of Muk’s Giga Drain was a clear sign the Poison-type had been defeated.

“I… hate you!” Ariana screamed in frustration.

“Most people do.” Eve said somberly in spite of herself. She had learned at an early age that most people wanted nothing to do with her idea of fun. Anytime she tried playing with them they got angry and resented her for it. After a while she decided to hell with them! She would have her fun, screw what others thought or felt about it! All that mattered was her own happiness and that she had six others she could share her joy with.

“Vileplume! Start with Sunny Day!” shouted Ariana replacing Muk with her Flower Pokémon. Vileplume wasted no time in shooting a white ball of energy to the ceiling that mimicked sunlight. “Now finish Nidoqueen with Solar Beam!”

“Counter with Flamethrower!” Eve called quickly. As Vileplume lowered its flower to fire a golden ray of solar energy, Nidoqueen spewed a long tongue of fire. The two blasts met in the center of the battlefield creating a massive explosion as neither one was strong enough to cancel the other out.

“Now use Giga Drain!” the Rocket Executive called. Once again the monster rabbit was ensnared, only this time every drop of energy was taken.

“Return Nidoqueen!” called Eve summoning back her Drill Pokémon. She was starting to get annoyed that two of her Pokémon were already beaten. If she was expected to carry out this mission properly, she would need to finish this fast without losing any more Pokémon. “Time to play Diva!” she said sweetly as she let her little terror free. The Banette let out an echoing hiss.

“Heeheehee! That Pokémon isn’t a Poison-type, nor do I believe it can learn any status healing moves. It’s helpless against my status moves!” Ariana bragged pompously.

“Go ahead and try. Diva is much craftier than you give her credit for.” Eve informed. Ariana glared at her not believing the claim.

“You’re bluffing! Taste Poison Powder!” commanded the Executive. A purple cloud of dust shot from Vileplume’s flower.

“Use Double Team Diva!” called Eve. A dozen ghostly images of the Marionette Pokémon spread around the room causing the toxic spores to miss the real one. Despite the situation, Ariana was smirking.

“So you weren’t bluffing. I still have a way to draw out the real Banette! Vileplume! Use Stun Spore on the Trainer!” ordered the Executive pointing at Eve. The Flower Pokémon shot out a cloud of yellow dust this time.

“Flash them Diva!” Eve commanded. All of the specters threw their arms up illuminating their bodies in a brilliant glow that lit up the entire room. Eve took this opportunity to run and avoid the Stun Spore. Ariana squinted trying to find her enemy. She saw Eve standing only a few feet from where she was earlier.

“Right there Vileplume! Kill her with Sludge Bomb!” she ordered victoriously. Vileplume shot a dense glob of sludge from its flower which hit its target and exploded. “YES! I got her! I finally got her! Take that you stupid whore! I win!” jeered Ariana triumphantly. Her smile faded however when visibility returned to normal and she realized that all she had struck was the floating corpse of a Rocket. “What the hell!?” she yelled in alarm.

“Surprised?” inquired Eve who was standing against the wall to the Executive’s left.

“How did you make that Rocket stand?” demanded Ariana angrily.

“Diva knows Psychic.” she responded as if the answer was obvious. The replicas all answered affirmatively. They released their hold on the dead Rocket causing it to fall back to the floor with a thud. “Now Diva! Time to go on the offensive! Attack Vileplume with Shadow Ball. The possessed dolls each got malevolent smirks as they gathered shadows in the palms of their hands. They then all threw the Shadow Balls at once to confuse Vileplume as to what direction the attack came from.

“Before Sunny Day fades, sweep this entire room with Solar Beam! Destroy all these damn copies and expose the real one!” commanded the Rocket Executive. The Flower Pokémon did as told blasting the closest Diva with Solar Beam. A fake. Vileplume continued blasting Banette after Banette with that single beam until the artificial sunlight faded and only one remained. “That’s the one! Blast it with Toxic!” Vileplume spewed a nasty purple glob from its flower badly poisoning the Marionette Pokémon.

“Dammit!” cursed Eve in frustration.

“Oh you don’t like that?” taunted Ariana. “Make the Banette suffer with Bullet Seed!” Vileplume launched a merciless onslaught of hard seeds at Diva causing her to screech in annoyance.

“Don’t let her do this to you Diva! Destroy her with Psychic!” commanded Eve. A purple glow appeared in Diva’s eyes that then surrounded Vileplume’s body. The Flower Pokémon shrieked in pain as every fiber of her being was assaulted at once getting poked and prodded.

“Vileplume! Finish that creature of with Giga Drain!” Green tendrils shot from Vileplume’s flower wrapping around Diva’s neck and arms. As Vileplume began sucking Diva’s energy, the specter’s body began dissolving. “What the hell?” cried Ariana in shock. Eve began laughing hysterically.

“You have no idea how hard it was keeping a straight face that whole time.” she said lightly.

“What’s going on?” demanded the Executive furiously.

“I’ll show you. Use Will-o-Wisp Diva!” called Eve. The real Banette materialized above Vileplume with a purple flame in her hand. With a vengeful hiss, she slammed the flame into Vileplume’s flower causing the Grass-type to shriek in agony as it was burned from the inside. “Is that revenge for what Vileplume did to your Substitute?” Eve guessed. The possessed doll’s zipper mouth curled up into a smile.

“Substitute? You mean all this time Vileplume was attacking a fake!?” surmised Ariana.

“Pretty much.” Eve verified. “With the exception of the energy used to create the Substitute, you haven’t done anything to the real Diva yet.”

“Why? Why are you this strong?” the Executive questioned nervously.

“I told you already. It’s because I’m better than you.” Eve repeated. “Why don’t you just run away again? You already surrendered one base to me, why not give me this one too?” she offered.

“Never! It would be an insult to Giovanni if I just handed over our main headquarters in exchange for my life!” refused Ariana adamantly. “Take out the Banette Honchkrow!” she called summoning a large black bird with a puffy white chest and red feathers on its tail and the inside of its wings.

“So you evolved your Murkrow I see. Alright Diva take a break.” said Eve holding up the Dusk Ball. She didn’t call the Marionette Pokémon back though. Diva instead turned invisible so that the moment her mistress was done playing she could finish the job. Eve then sent out Luxray. The Gleaming Eye Pokémon glared at Honchkrow as every hair on her body stood on end. The oversized crow was clearly female.

“What’s the matter? Afraid Honchkrow would beat your Banette?” taunted Ariana.

“Not at all. I’m more concerned about embarrassing you when Diva destroys your bird.” Eve said playfully. She honestly couldn’t believe how stupid Ariana was to have not used Pursuit at such a golden opportunity. If she had done that though, the jig would have been up that Diva was still lingering around. It was also surprising that Ariana hadn’t noticed the temperature difference. Most people usually say that Diva gives off a cold presence.

“I know why you switched! You won’t fool me!” accused Ariana. Eve rolled her eyes. Rather than argue, she decided to let the Executive believe in her delusions.

“Whatever you say old lady! Luxray darling! I know you’re just burning to get in that bird’s feathers! Go for it with Thunder Fang!” Eve called. Luxray charged at the Big Boss Pokémon with sparks shooting off her teeth.

“Dodge with Fly Honchkrow!” countered the Rocket. The crow flapped her wings to get airborne, but Luxray wasn’t having it. The lioness jumped up into the air and mauled Honchkrow before she was out of reach. When Luxray landed see spit out the mouthful of feathers she had ripped out.

“Don’t worry Luxray. She can’t stay up there forever, so Charge your power for when she comes down!” encouraged Eve. The Gleaming Eye Pokémon spread her legs as electricity built up in her body causing sparks to shoot off of her fur. Honchkrow then made her descent slamming Luxray in her right flank.

“Thunderbolt!” Eve called lightheartedly.

“Sucker Punch!” interrupted Ariana. Before Luxray could release her pent up energy, the crow kicked her in her face. Luxray snarled murderously as she discharged powerful lighting that shocked Honchkrow to her core.

“Honchkrow! You can beat this mongrel! Use Night Slash!” Ariana commanded. The Big Boss Pokémon surrounded her wings in darkness then started beating Luxray with them. In her defense, the lioness bit down on Honchkrow’s left wing.

“Just a regular old Bite? You can do better than that!” Eve encouraged. Sparks shot from Luxray’s mouth as she turned Bite into Thunder Fang.

“Get that thing off with Dark Pulse!” ordered the Rocket Executive. Honchkrow launched a powerful wave of darkness from her beak point black in the Gleaming Eye Pokémon’s face. Luxray howled as she was forced to release her prey. The crow took the opportunity to get as far away into the air as possible.

“Good job Honchkrow! They can’t get you up there!” bragged Ariana.

“Wanna bet?” challenged Eve. “Use Discharge Luxray!” she called. Luxray’s released electricity from her body in all directions. Even Eve and the invisible Diva had to move around to avoid getting hit. In the air Honchkrow was doing every aerial maneuver she knew to avoid getting it. With all the damage she already sustained one more good hit would end it.

“Be careful who you make bets with Little Girl. You might lose!” chastised Ariana. “Hit Luxray with Night Shade!” she told the crow. Honchkrow let out a loud caw as her presence filled the room as if suffocating her opponent. “Now get ready for Sky Attack!” The Big Boss Pokémon began glowing as she charged her energy.

“Wait for her to come to you Luxray!” Eve advised. Honchkrow then dropped from the air like a bomb on a direct course for the lioness. “Now! Finish her with Charge Beam!” Luxray opened her mouth blasting a concentrated stream of lightning at the bird. Honchkrow collided with Charge Beam but her momentum continued her plummet causing her to tear through the beam and strike her target. Luxray’s attack however had reduced the power so much that it was more like a tap to her. On top of that, the strain had knocked the crow unconscious before she even reached the ground.

“Honchkrow! Honchkrow! Get up you damn Pokémon! Get up!” screamed Ariana frantically. “The dignity of Team Rocket hangs on you winning this battle! I will not allow you to faint!”

“It’s too late for that.” Eve said without pity. “And if you’re going to whine like a hysterical child then I guess I have no choice than to put you out of your misery. You’re really no fun when you’re broken.”

“So you’re going to kill me, just like you did to Chermaine?” the Rocket Executive guessed correctly.

“Exactly like her.” Eve said straightforwardly. With a malevolent hiss, Diva reappeared behind Ariana and shoved her hand through the back of the Executive’s skull so that her fingers stuck out of the Rocket’s forehead.

“No… No…” Ariana wept pathetically. Without mercy, Diva raked her claws back and slashed her victim’s brain with Shadow Claw. The Rocket Executive’s eyes rolled back as her lifeless body collapsed. Eve sighed. She always hated when things had to end this way if only because she would never get to play with this person again. It couldn’t be helped though. Leader had ordered the elimination of all Rockets and this one was pretty much broken anyway.

“You! What have you done do Executive Sham!?” demanded a Rocket who was joined by a few others. Great, another battle. She got a mischievous grin upon noticing the floor and that Luxray was still out.

“Oh no Team Rocket! Whatever you do, don’t use Earthquake to faint my Luxray!” she said faking weakness and vulnerability.

“Get her Rhyhorn! Use Earthquake!” called one of the Rockets sending out a stone grey beast with armor plating on its body. The rhinoceros reared up on its hind legs then dropped down sending tremors throughout the room. Eve quickly recalled Luxray and Diva as the floor started to sink. She then made a break for the stairs as the floor completely collapse to the room below taking all the Rockets with it. As the all screamed for their lives, Eve’s laughter could be heard echoing in the stairwell at how gullible those fools were.
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Chapter 46: Four is Death

Being separated from the group didn’t bother Zack at all. It reminded him of some of his old solo missions as a Ranger when he was tracking poachers. Just like with Team Rocket, an enemy could come from any direction at any time. Rather than wander aimlessly around the base though, Zack and Lloyd skated around on the Spinner traps trying to locate their teammates. Zack hoped he’d find a lone female Neos so that he could console her and, in return, she could console him the way only a woman can. As the arrows continued pushing him ahead, Zack could hear the sounds of fighting. In a few moments he would be at the scene of a battlefield.

“Get ready Lloyd!” he poised. The Golduck quacked in response. As the two came around a corner they saw just a railing overlooking an open lobby. Beneath them were about a dozen Trainers: a well assorted mix of Team Rocket and Team Neos with an even more diverse selection of Pokémon on the field. Zack recognized a few of the Pokémon wearing armor as those that marched into battle with Lloyd and Axel.

“Well that was anticlimactic.” Zack mused to himself having expected to be dumped off into the fray. The Spinners instead dropped them off on the overlook where a man dressed in all white with short teal hair stood. He was watching the battle below with his arms behind his back. At the sound of his unexpected guests arriving, the man turned around revealing the red ‘R’ on his shirt.

“Team Neos? I didn’t expect there to be any more on the Spinners.” he said with dull surprise.

“Well what can I say? I liked them so much I just kept getting on.” Zack said casually. “You’re not dressed like the other Rockets. Does that mean you’re an executive?” he observed.

“Correct. I am Executive Archer Kurtz. I am Giovanni’s second in command.” Archer introduced.

“Second in Command? That’s just great.” Zack sighed sarcastically. Of course he would be the one to get the strongest Executive. “Well Lloyd, let’s do our best!” he encouraged.

“You are actually challenging me? It seems the folly of you Neophytes knows no limits.” laughed the Executive. “Let’s go Weezing!” he called sending out the Poison Gas Pokémon.

“What you call ‘folly’ I call daring with a hint of strategy. Use Swagger Lloyd!” Zack called. The Duck Pokémon put his hands on his hips and shook his hips while making taunting noises much to the agitation of his foe. “Besides, we both know you weren’t just going to let me walk away.” Zack said.

“That is correct. You are not walking away from this! Use Smokescreen Weezing!” commanded Archer. Despite its confusion, Weezing belched out a thick black cloud that obscured the entire area. “Now strike the Golduck with Thunder Bolt!” the Rocket Executive followed up.

“Now would be a good time for Psych Up and Dodge!” Zack called as Weezing’s body inflated due to the buildup of electricity. When the Poison Gas Pokémon released its attack, Lloyd had already copied both the Attack Boost gained from Swagger and the ability to see through the Smokescreen which allowed him to see where the Thunder Bolt was coming from and move accordingly.

“Don’t let them do that again! Use Disable Lloyd!” commanded the ex-Ranger. Lloyd put his hands to his head and used his psychic powers to put a mental block on Weezing’s ability to use Thunder Bolt.

“You are quite resourceful. Let’s see how you handle being Poisoned! Use Sludge Weezing!” Archer ordered. In its confusion Weezing simply drooled out the Sludge instead of blasting it causing no harm to Lloyd. “How unsightly.” Archer said shamefully.

“Now Lloyd! Get in there with a Zen Headbutt!” called Zack. The Golduck’s forehead glowed blue as he ran at his opponent and slammed his head into Weezing. The tridents on his helmet only caused added damage to the siamese Pokémon. Zack couldn’t help but be impressed with the added advantage the armor possessed. The only reason he got it in the first place was for Lloyd’s own protection so the facts that it was so snazzy and could be used offensively made it even better.

“Weezing! Use Sludge Bomb now!” the Executive commanded. Weezing shook off its confusion, then launched a pointblank blast of filth at Lloyd. The Duck Pokémon coughed from getting Poisoned by the attack. Lucky for him, Zack was prepared. Lloyd reached into his armor and pulled out a green berry that instantly cured his ailment once eaten.

“What?” Archer yelled in shock.

“I knew we were going into enemy territory so I gave Lloyd a Lum Berry to hold onto just in case of status ailments. You never know if an opponent is going to Burn, Poison, or Paralyze you.” boasted Zack.

“Smart thinking. It seems you are not as foolhardy as the rest of your organization. However, I do not suppose your Golduck has any more Berries in that armor of his?” inquired Archer.

“Who knows.” Zack answered evasively. In truth that was Lloyd’s only Berry, but Zack had come up with other strategies just in case. He pulled out an Item Ball and opened it revealing a red and white launcher that he attached to his left arm. He then loaded it with a grey and yellow disk marked with a number six.

“Oh? What is this toy you have?” the Rocket Executive questioned. Zack answered with a smirk as he aimed the device at Lloyd. “Weezing, they’re up to something! Use Shadow Ball!” Archer ordered. Weezing gathered a sphere of darkness in front of itself then launched the attack at Lloyd.

“Cancel the attack with Shadow Claw!” Zack commanded. Lloyd’s claws became surrounded in a dark aura as he swiped at the incoming orb reducing it to a dark cloud. Then, with the push of a button, Zack launched the disk at the Duck Pokémon giving him an extreme stat boost.

“Now! Finish Weezing with Psychic!” the ex-Ranger called. Lloyd took on a vibrant and wild azure glow from his maximized Special Attack. The Poison Gas Pokémon roared in pain as it was engulfed by the Psychic aura before collapsing to the ground unconscious.

“I see. So somehow that device greatly boosted your Pokémon’s power. And I suppose that ragged sash it’s wearing is an Expert Belt?” analyzed the Executive. Zack shrugged with a chuckle.

“You got me.” he admit. “Still, I don’t think there is much you can do about it. You might as well give up right now.”

“I think not. You best not be so ignorant as to underestimate an Executive of Team Rocket.” Archer lectured. “Let’s go Crobat! Use Haze!” he called sending out a large purple bat with blue membranes in its four wings and large fangs hanging from its upper lip. Crobat fluttered its wings creating a black mist that eliminated every boost Lloyd had gotten this battle.

“Lovely.” Zack snarked. Had he known his only x6 was going to get used up so quickly, he would have saved it for Crobat. In fact, he found it intriguing that a member of Team Rocket actually had a Crobat. The second highest ranking member in an organization that treats its Pokémon like tools has one that can only be evolved by friendship. Was it stolen or was there more to Archer Kurtz than meets the eye?

“Well Lloyd, there is no way you can outrun a Crobat so fall back with Aqua Jet!” he called.

“You would have your Pokémon retreat?” questioned Archer as Lloyd surrounded himself in water and darted backwards passed even Zack.

“See ya!” he said following his partner onto the Spinners leaving Archer standing speechless with his mouth hanging open. Zack may not have had a full team of six like his teammates, but he compensated by being crazy prepared. As a Ranger he was taught to use the terrain to his advantage, even if the foes he faced knew the terrain better. Spending his time on the Spinner traps wasn’t because he was lost: he was mapping them out! When the Rocket Executive regained himself he growled.

“After them!” he commanded. Archer ran to the edge of the Spinner, careful not to set off his own trap as Crobat flew safely over the arrows.

“Turn left and use Ice Beam in three seconds!” Zack called. Lloyd turned his head and fired a ray of frozen air and water vapor. The attack would have completely missed Crobat had the Golduck not hit an arrow that turned him to face his opponent directly. Crobat screeched in pain as the cold blast struck. Archer frowned at how cunning his foe was. Indeed, he had underestimated the wayward Neos.

“Crobat! Shake it off and use Confuse Ray!” ordered the Rocket Executive. The Bat Pokémon’s eyes glowed white as it shot a ghostly white sphere at Lloyd. What Archer failed to notice though was the Spinners once again acting against him. The Golduck was jerked left causing Confuse Ray to miss while giving Lloyd yet another opening.

“In fifteen seconds use Aqua Jet!” Zack commanded quickly.

“In fifteen seconds I would have already won!” condemned Archer. “Slice it with Cross Poison!” Crobat flew in for kill. It was faster than the Spinners allowing it to be on top of Lloyd in seconds and slashed him with its wings. Much to Zack’s relief, the armor served its function by absorbing most of the damage. The Duck Pokémon repaid the attack by first smacking Crobat to his left with Aqua Tail then, as the Spinner’s turned him in that very direct, following up on his order to Aqua Jet. Moving in the same direction as the Spinners increased the power of the attack instead of reducing it like moving against them would have done. Had Archer not sent Crobat on the attack or had attacked from a distance with a move like Air Cutter, the Spinners would have turned Lloyd to facing his opponent anyway.

“Try out smarting this! Crobat! Attack with Aerial Ace and use Toxic!” Archer commanded.

“Oh boy.” Zack said sarcastically as Crobat zipped through the air and rammed into Lloyd before spewing the deadly attack in the Golduck’s face badly poisoning him. “Lloyd! Use Flash and Psychic on Crobat, then Aqua Jet off the Spinners!” the ex-Ranger called as he loaded a yellow disk into his Wonder Launcher.

“Not so fast! Confuse Ray!” Archer shouted. Crobat blasted its opponent in the face with the ghostly white light. At the same time, Lloyd had already placed his hands on his forehead to blind the Bat Pokémon with Flash. In his confusion, Lloyd used the attack called Confusion on Crobat instead of Psychic. He then continued to wander aimlessly on the Spinners, oblivious to his Trainer’s orders and to the Poison that was slowly draining the life from him.

“That’s just great.” said Zack rolling his eyes. He carefully aimed his Wonder Launcher to where he anticipated his partner would end up. It was a lot harder to use on a moving target, especially when the target wasn’t in control of their own movements.

“Crobat! Stop him! Stop the Neophyte!” commanded Archer. Zack sighed in frustration. He just wasn’t getting a break with this guy. He had to hand it to Archer though; he certainly lived up to his position as an Executive of Team Rocket. His ruthlessness was what one would expect from the second-in-command of the world’s largest and most dangerous criminal organization.

As Crobat closed in Zack could feel the sound waves from the Bat Pokémon’s echolocation bouncing off of him. The blinding effects of Flash mean nothing to a creature adapted to darkness. Zack was left with no other choice. He ran towards Crobat then dodge rolled under the Pokémon’s belly to evade it. As he got back to his feet he ran towards the Spinners in hopes of catching up to Lloyd.

“What are you doing Crobat! Kill him!” the Executive demanded.

“Lloyd!” Zack called noticing his partner sitting on the floor in a daze with a sickly look. ‘Great, now that Lloyd is still, I’m the one moving!’ Zack thought to himself. At least he knew which direction he was going. He turned to take aim at the Golduck only to have to duck suddenly as Crobat swooped in for the attack. He rose after dodging the vampire and shot a Full Heal from his Launcher knowing he might not get a clear shot like this again. Before Zack could sigh in relief, he was struck from behind with an Air Slash. If he thought that attack stung, getting dragged by the Spinners while kissing the floor was no picnic either.

“Now finish him Crobat! Use Sludge Bomb!” Archer commanded. As Zack prepared for the worst his only regret was not getting laid before the mission started. A loud agonizing shriek from Crobat followed by the sound of it falling to the ground however made last regrets more of a goal to reward himself for a mission well done. A blue aura surrounded Zack as he was gently lifted to his feet by Lloyd. The Spinner dropped him off on the same floor space as his Golduck.

“Glad to see you recovered. Sorry it took so long.” said Zack with a grin. Lloyd responded with a thumbs-up. Looking at the terrain, Zack realized there was a straight path leading back to Archer so if he were to use a Pokémon that couldn’t fly or Levitate it would still be able to attack.

“Do not think you have beaten me just yet!” warned Archer. “Your Golduck may be strong, but Weezing and Crobat have done enough damage that my last Pokémon should be able to finish it even with a disadvantage!” He returned Crobat and switched it out for a canine with short black fur covering most of its body, orange fur on its belly and snout, long white horns, an arrow at the tip of its long tail and plating resembling bone covered its back, collar, and ankles.

Archer was right; Lloyd had taken a few good hits from his previous opponents and suffered through poison for a bit as well. That was why Zack wanted to finish Houndoom as quickly as possible in case the Rocket Executive had more Pokémon. A full team of six versus just Lloyd would be troublesome. Good thing he had Hyper Potions for his Launcher.

“Let’s not fool around Lloyd. Use Hydro Pump!” Zack commanded. The kappa inhaled deeply and blasted a powerful deluge at Houndoom. The Dark Pokémon easily jumped out of the way of the attack and ran at its opponent.

“Attack with Thief Houndoom!” Archer commanded. With a hellish howl, Houndoom lunged at Lloyd and tore the Expert Belt from his waist. Houndoom shook its head violently with the pilfered sash still in its mouth. “Do not destroy it! Use it!” the Rocket Executive followed up. With a jerk of its head, the hellhound got the Expert Belt wrapped around its horns.

“We don’t need the Expert Belt to win! Use Water Pulse Lloyd!” called Zack. Lloyd shot out sound waves of water that caused Houndoom to wince when struck. It snarled threateningly at the ex-Ranger and his partner.

“Return the favor with Thunder Fang!” ordered the Executive. The Dark Pokémon barked rabidly as it charged towards its opponent with electricity sparking around its maw.

“Time for Protect Lloyd!” Zack called. The kappa surrounded himself in a big fluid bubble that absorbed the shock of Thunder Fang.

“Fine! Use Feint and then Thunder Fang!” Archer countered. Houndoom smashed through the bubble and clamped its jaws down hard on the Golduck’s arm causing him to cry out in pain.

“Smack it away with Aqua Tail followed with Disable!” Zack commanded. He pragmatically loaded a purple disk into his Launcher just in case. Lloyd meanwhile enveloped his tail in water then slammed it into the Dark Pokemon’s side causing it to yelp. He then used Disable to temporarily block Houndoom’s ability to use Thunder Fang. Archer chuckled at this development. This time it was Zack who had played into his hands.

“Houndoom! Use Sunny Day followed by Flamethrower!” he commanded. The hellhound turned its head to the ceiling and shot a ball of fire out of its mouth with a howl. The fireball exploded filling the room with artificial sunlight. The canine then spat a blazing tongue of hellfire at Lloyd. The Duck Pokémon responded by blasting Hydro Pump to cancel out the attack. The intense sunlight caused Hydro Pump to evaporate faster while drying the air making the oxygen needed for Flamethrower more readily combustible. In the end neither Pokémon made any headway so both stopped.

“It may not amount to much Lloyd, but use Water Sport to keep things moist around here!” suggested Zack. The kappa spewed a light spray of water over himself and the area around him to weaken Houndoom’s strengthened fire.

“Now Houndoom! Defeat Golduck with Solar Beam!” commanded Archer gleefully. Houndoom easily gathered the sunlight and blasted a ray of golden solar energy.

“Spinners NOW!” shouted Zack as both he and Lloyd ran for the nearest arrow. It didn’t matter where they would be taken they just needed to get away.

“After them Houndoom! Use the Spinners if you have to!” Archer ordered. Much to his indignation he realized he too would need to get on the trap if he were to keep up with his Pokémon to give orders and to track their opponent’s moves. It was appalling that intruders were able to not only use what were supposed to be traps to their advantage but they knew the traps better than the top Executive.

“Lloyd! Use Amnesia for if they use Solar Beam again!” Zack called. Lloyd replied with a confused ‘huh?’ indicating he already used it.

“That will not help you! Use Nasty Plot followed by another Solar Beam!” The Executive commanded. Houndoom snarled viciously as it decided how to eviscerate its prey. It then launched another Solar Beam which Lloyd was unable to dodge. The Duck Pokémon started panting from weariness. He would have been knocked out by now had the armor not been protecting him but even it had its limits.

“Use Screech then jump up and hit Houndoom with Aqua Jet!” called Zack. The Golduck let out a shrill honk that caused Houndoom to whimper thanks to its sensitive hearing. He then did as told, jumping and launching himself like a water covered torpedo at the hellhound causing it to yelp.

“Alright, get ready buddy!” Zack said aiming the Hyper Potion loaded Launcher at Lloyd. As soon as he launched it however, Houndoom leaped in between them getting the benefits from the Potion. “You’ve gotta be kidding me!” cried the ex-Ranger. He mentally berated himself for being so hasty and not waiting until Lloyd was further away.

“You will not be using that again! Use Embargo Houndoom!” ordered Archer. The Dark Pokémon howled putting a barrier between Lloyd and Zack. The latter clutched his fists in irritation. Not only was he seriously losing this battle, he was once again regretting not having sex before the mission. Even so, this battle wasn’t over until it was over. There would be time for regrets when he lost.

“Make it rain Lloyd!” he called. The kappa rhythmically moved his body to temporarily supercharge the water inside him, then turned his head towards the ceiling and shot Houndoom’s artificial sun with a powerful blast of water. The steam produced mysteriously created clouds in the room which then unleashed a downpour of rain. Zack pushed up his glasses and pulled the tip of his hood to cover his face better. He always considered Lloyd’s Rain Dance as a desperation move. It wasn’t his style to artificially alter the weather, especially indoors, unless the situation absolutely demanded it.

“Now Lloyd! Attack Houndoom with Aqua Jet 2.0!” commanded Zack. The Duck Pokémon surrounded himself in water, then in one lightning movement struck the hellhound before it could react.

“It’s almost beaten Houndoom! Finish it with Crunch!” ordered the Rocket Executive. Houndoom lunged forward snapping its jaws, but all it managed to bite was air. Lloyd had already darted out of the way with Aqua Jet and was once again meandering around on the Spinners. “Impossible!” yelled Archer. Zack chuckled to himself wondering how long it would take Archer to figure out Lloyd’s ability was Swift Swim.

“I think it’s time to finish this Lloyd! Use Psych Up and Hydro Pump!” Zack called. The Golduck focused on Houndoom and applied the Dark Pokémon’s own Nasty Plot to himself. He then released a mighty deluge from his beak at his foe.

“Move out of the way and use Shadow Ball!” Archer commanded. Houndoom jumped to the side narrowly avoiding the brunt of the attack but still got splashed by the torrent. The hellhound then created a swirling orb of darkness that it launched at Lloyd. However, the indoor rain and Houndoom’s own fatigue blurred its vision causing it to aim where the Golduck was and not where the Spinners were taking him.

“That was too close! I think now is the time to use Brine!” called Zack. Lloyd moved his beak as if chewing before spraying Houndoom with saltwater. The Dark Pokémon howled in pain as it collapsed to its side. Zack held his breath waiting either for Houndoom to get up or for Archer to send out another Pokémon. When neither happed, he let out a silent sigh of relief.

“Forgive me Giovanni.” Archer said solemnly as he returned Houndoom. “I cannot believe that all my effort was all for naught. To think that I was bested by a mere Neos!” he lamented. Zack didn’t pay the fallen Executive much attention though. His first priority was giving Lloyd a Max Potion in bottle form. He didn’t want to waste any of his Launcher ammo outside of battle. He and Lloyd then hopped the Spinners back to the balcony and Archer.

“What is your rank within Team Neos?” inquired Archer suddenly.

“Huh?” Zack asked having been caught off guard by the question.

“Your rank. You overcame Team Rocket’s second-in-command with a single Pokémon. I would imagine you are one of the top brass in your organization.” the Executive said.

“Me? No, no, no. You’ve got it all wrong. I’m just an Officer, nothing special here. Lloyd is my only Pokémon so I do what I can to keep him from fainting.” Zack explained. Hearing those words made Archer’s body go limp. He lowered his head in defeat but had a modest grin.

“So even if I beat you, there were dozens more who could have still defeated me.” Archer chuckled to himself. “Very well then. I surrender. My allegiance to Team Rocket is not worth my own life.” Zack was relieved to hear that the former Executive was surrendering so quietly. Unlike other members of Team Neos, killing wasn’t his forte so if it could be avoided that was the route he was going to take even if it went against his orders.

“Alright, I’m placing you under arrest.” Zack said wondering if he even had anything on his person to bind Archer with.

“Arrest? What do you mean arrest!?” a familiar voice rang out. Zack, Lloyd, and Archer turned to the Spinners where a certain midget was flying over on the back of his Dusknoir.

“A child?” Archer questioned.

“No, that’s Lt. Deter.” Zack whispered to correct the misconception. Both of them were already in trouble, they last thing Zack wanted was to press the lieutenant’s primary berserk button. The midget jumped off of his ghost and pointed right at Archer.

“Dusknoir! Strangle that Rocket!” ordered Lt. Deter mercilessly. The Gripper Pokémon lived up to the name by floating over to Archer, wrapping one of its large hands around the Executive’s neck and squeezing. Archer gasped for air as he desperately pulled at the Ghost-type’s hand to release him. In the end his entire body fell limp. Dusknoir dropped the former Rocket Executive to the floor before getting returned to its Ultra Ball by its master. Lt. Deter then pranced right up to Zack.

“What were your orders Grunt?” he demanded.

“Umm… I’m not a Grunt.” answered Zack rubbing the back of his head.

“You are now you smartass bastard! Now what were you told to do before coming on this mission!?” screamed the midget.

“Defeat Team Rocket.”

“KILL Team Rocket! ANNIALATE! KILL! Do those mean anything to you? I’ll give you a hint fucker! Those words do not mean fucking ARREST!” he ranted.

“That man humbly surrendered! I’m not just going to take a life because I’m told to. Jail time could have reformed him!” Zack pointed out. Lt. Deter glared at Zack fiercely for his defiance.

“How dare you defend Team Rocket! You insubordinate asshole! Forget Grunt! You’re on the highest level of probation Team Neos allows! I will see to it that your Golduck and any other Pokémon you have get taken away from you! You will be--” Lt. Deter was silenced by two loud pops. The midget looked down at his torso to see two red splotches slowly growing on his uniform. “F-f-fu…u…ck…” he choked as he fell to his back on the floor.

“Lieutenant!” Zack cried as he ran over to his superior. He didn’t even need to touch him, Zack knew just by looking at him that Charles Deter was dead, killed by two gunshot wounds to the chest. Zack looked up to see Archer slowly getting to his feet with a gun in his left hand.

“He needed to shut up.” the Executive said weakly as he rubbed his sore neck with his free hand.

“Archer Kurtz, how are you alive?” Zack questioned in shock. He was sure Dusknoir killed him.

“Simple, the stupid Pokémon dropped me when I let my body go limp.” he said uncaringly. The Executive then pointed the gun at Zack. “As for you, I did not expect such a powerful Trainer to be so gullible.”

“Telling me you surrendered, saying your life was worth more than your loyalty to Team Rocket. You were planning to kill me the moment my back was turned!” Zack realized furiously. He was more angry with himself than at the Rocket’s deception. He should have known better. Team Rocket will say or do anything for personal gain.

“One does not become second-in-command to the greatest criminal empire that ever existed or ever will exist by giving in to arrogant upstarts. Face it Neophyte, you’re little rebellion is doomed to fail! All hail Giovanni!” Archer taunted. The second he pulled the trigger, Lloyd had already used Aqua Jet to get between his partner and the Rocket taking the bullet instead.

“LLOYD!” Zack shouted in panic. The Golduck, still standing, took a deep breath before launching Hydro Pump at Archer. The torrent knocked Archer off his feet and sent him flying into the railing of the balcony. Lloyd only stopped his attack when his enemy was pushed over the side.

“Lloyd! Are you ok!?” questioned Zack urgently. There was a small hole in the chest plate of the Duck Pokémon’s armor with a web of cracks spreading from the impact site. Lloyd rubbed his chest uncomfortably so Zack took the chest plate off. There was a dark bruise on Lloyd’s chest and a dent on the inside of the armor, but other than that the Golduck was no worse off. His armor had completely absorbed the shot. Zack couldn’t help but laugh and cry in relief.

“Would you look at that? It would seem we both own our lives to Team Neos now. Man I love this organization!” he cheered giving his partner a hug. His elation dwindled when he saw Lt. Deter’s dead body though. “I guess we should move on.” he said somberly.

He would like to brag about singlehandedly defeating a Rocket Executive, but his own naivety had cost the life of one of his own. Zack hoped that his next encounter would be a friendly one and not another enemy. He knew that if anyone surrendered he would still want to take them in rather than kill them no matter how many of them would try to turn on him because there would always be that one person who could be reformed.
 
Reading over the whole story again to catch up is a crazily awesome experience, I swear. Anyway, Psycho, the new chapters you've been bringing out are pretty sweet - I've really enjoyed seeing the collapse of the other teams and how most of them (Poor Archie) try to manipulate the situation to work for them. It feels realistic, and exactly what those groups would do if they existed in real life. One thing that irritated me about the teams though is stupidity of a lot of them. Okay, the grunts might not be the best battlers out there, that's cool. But when the higher up's are still making mistakes like trying to poison a steel type, it kinda breaks my willing suspension of disbelief a bit. But other than that, the battles are great to read.

Of the recent chapters, I have to say I've enjoyed Chane's and Zach's the most, probably because with both Brian and Eve, I knew they'd win. Chane's fight had me really wondering there if she was actually going to survive this - I wouldn't have been too surprised if you'd killed her off, so it was a beautiful moment to see her win. The same situation applies to Zach, as its tough to rely on just one Pokemon to keep you safe. That fight has also made me realize that if Zach had a full team of Pokemon trained like Lloyd, we'd all be bowing down to him in no time. Either way, its an enjoyable read, so keep up the good work!
 

Psycho Monkey

Member of the Literary Elite Four
Glad to see you back @Aura! It feels like it's been forever since you were last on Charms. Thanks for the feedback! ^_^

To clarify your gripe about Poison on Steel, I always pictured Petrel Lambda as the weakest of the Executives. In fact, my headcanon has it that he was given the position because he is a master of disguise and espionage, not for his battle performance. He's just bad at keeping character when he feels that he, Giovanni, or Team Rocket has been insulted.

Here are some more fun little facts for all my readers: Among Team Arka, Chane has the second strongest team after Raiden. Since she doesn't like hurting others she holds them back making her seem like the weakest of the five. If you look back at the battles that specifically focus on her, you'll notice that the only time any of her Pokemon faint are due to special circumstances like Destiny Bond or a rampaging Machoke. In group battles losing Pokemon is just a matter of getting ganged up on. As for Zack, he's always been good at using terrain to his advantage and having one Pokemon means he'll do whatever it takes to keep Lloyd in the fight. If he were to get more Pokemon and maintain his habits, he'd probably be promoted to Lieutenant real fast if not all the way up to Captain. However he seems to be content with only one partner so I guess we'll have to wait and see what the future brings.

Speaking of futures, I might have forgotten to finish the next chapter (I thought all of them were done until I read it and was like "Lol nope!" This is what I get for writing the last ten out of order ><) so it might be a few more days before that one comes out. In exchange for your patience (and comments/questions), I'll post some trivia about the world of Team Neos and the characters that reside in it along with a teaser for Vol2 after Chapter 50 has been put up :\=|:

Thank you all for your continued patronage! ♥
 
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