Blast from the Past! - POKEMON: DRACONIC

The flight to Cyllage City was seamless, covering in minutes a distance that would have taken an hour or two on foot. The City is nestled against a towering cliffside that stretched far south toward Ambrette Town via Route 8, while to the east lay Route 7 where a dirt path that leads away from the coast and back into the heart of Kalos.

Being high up in the sky allowed for perfect panoramic view over the area. As I admired the setting sun off in the distance I couldn't help but notice how the city's architecture seemed to merge seamlessly with the rugged landscape. The buildings were of earthy tones with every structure crafted from stone or concrete in shades of slate gray, topped with deep brown roofs. Some were painted to match, while others achieved the look naturally through the use of weathered clay tiles.

The Ranger landed without a hitch in a quiet public park, where a small contingent of Interpol agents was already positioned and waiting for our arrival.

(The Rangers had likely coordinated the hand off of Poacher Betty in advance before we took off. Since her crimes spanned across borders, she falls under the Inter Pol's cross-regional jurisdiction.)

"Al, lets meet up at the Pokémon Center later. I'm going to drop off this troublesome package first, okay? So don't you dare challenge the Gym without me there to cheer you on or you'd definitely lose without my loving gaze to keep your spirits up! Got that?"

Anita while on top of her Togekiss demanded as she stared down with a look that made it clear that any protest would be useless.

"....Yeah, sure. I wasn't planning on challenging the Gym today anyway."

"Yay!"

Anita cheered before hastily turning to pat her Togekiss lightly on the head.

"Togekiss, mind giving me another lift?"

'Toge! Togekiss!'

'Swish!'

With a cheerful cry, Togekiss took to the air and the two swept above the city once more before disappearing from view. Right after Anita left the Rangers finished their handover, leaving Betty in Inter Pol's custody before both groups departed as well.

"Time for me to get a move on too."

As it was getting dark, I did not waste anymore time and made my way toward the Pokémon Center where I first had my team checked and healed by nurse joy followed by a hearty lunch before finally calling it a day.

I met up with Anita in the guest lounge of the Pokémon Center the following morning. After delivering the relic, she had headed straight for her room making it apparent that beyond the happy go lucky demeanor she shows the encounter had also taken a toll on her.

As we sat in the lounge, my eyes caught a small, inconspicuous tuft of pink fluff dangling from the side of her bag.

"Anita are those Pompoms?"

"Correcto! Can't be a proper cheerleader without these babies and I already choreographed the dance and cheers I'll be doing."

Anita chirped before demonstrating series of rhythmic movements with the Pom-poms.

"I'm flattered but isn't it a bit much."

"I thought that too at first so I ditched the Lopunny suit."

"The what now?"

I blinked as my brain momentarily stalled by what I heard.

"The cute Lopunny cheering suit, If you like I can rush and change."

"No don't ... I mean this will do, thank you for the support."

I cut in knowing that it may cause more problems than its worth. After finishing breakfast along with our Pokémon before making our way toward the Cyllage City Gym operated by the Cliff noble family who helped in researching my Steelix's peculiarities a few years back.

(Owning a car here must feel like riding a roller coaster.)

It took a while to reach the gym due to the geography of the area. Like many of the other seaside hubs in Kalos, every structure may it be building or roads followed the natural contours of the land. While it was aesthetically stunning, it made navigating the streets on foot quite a hassle.

The Gym is situated in the base of the cliff face that runs through the rear perimeter of the City. The entrance of which was a tunnel that bore through the cliff which showed a crude aesthetic exuding a overly craggy exterior.

(No doubt, that's a Rock gym alright.)

....

"You listen here I'm the ..."

Entering the facility we heard a commotion happening in the registration booth. Taking a closer look it seems that a rotund high society looking lady accompanied by a child is cornering a Gym trainer.

The staff member behind the counter looked to be about my age with hair uniquely adorned with colorful stones.

(That's a young Grant right? The future rock climbing Gym Leader to be of this gym.)

"I had enough with your nonsense mister, I'm already tired and nauseous from the ride here so you better call your manager or I will have this whole establishment close down!"

Listening in on their conversation memories of my past life when I was working a summer job as a retail worker flashed before my eyes.

(So they still exist even in this world, the dreaded K.)

"Ma'am the highest authority here is the gym leader and he is currently out on a league call."

"I want to speak with him now! My son fought in your gym and was able to beat one of your Gym leaders Pokémon so I demand you give him a badge."

"Is that so? Then allow me a minute to look though our record."

As the pompously dressed woman was about to throw another outburst, the young Grant started typing in a computer.

"Sorry but based on our records it shows that he lost the battle as such the Gym leader deemed his performance to be lacking therefore unsuitable to earn the badge. To put it short the requirement for receiving a badge in this gym is to defeat the gym leader in a two on two battle meaning winning by per the rules instated knocking out both of the gym leaders Pokémon."

Grant slowly explained the rules of the gym to the woman but the recipients attitude only got worse it was clear that she was not willing to back down until getting her way.

"I still demand you give him a badge!"

"Ma'am, again I can't just ....."

The young Grant was in dismay trying his hardest to get her to compromise but all his words fell on deaf ears.

"Grant, that's not how your deal with this type of people."

As the situation was about to get heated a muscular man wearing a white tank top and brown heavy duty cargo pants that was held by a leather belt that carried multiple excavation tools appeared. I immediately recognized him from television as the Gym leader of Cyllage City's Gym and Kalos regions top paleontologist, Hector Cliff.

"Dad, your back!"

"Yeah, Inter Pol called for my assistance but it seem they still got to iron up some things before we depart so I thought I'd return for a bit but that's not important. You seem to have your own little dilemma here, listen up Grant in this type of situation there is one magic word that can fix all your problems."

"Ohh!? what is it?"

"SECURITY!"

The gym leader Hector yelled out and as if on cue two large Barbaracle sprinted out from the corridor and grabbed the lady with her son. The two Barbaracle looked at the Gym leader as if asking if they grabbed the right people and with a nod of affirmation they slowly dragged them out of the Gym.

"Huh? What!? What is this? this is not how you treat a client! Mark my words I will sue this whole place and make you close down you hear me! Don't ignore me!..... Hey stop pulling us out, no wait ... NOOooO!"

"See boy, easy solution for an annoying problem and if they break anything in the Gym or hurt one of our staff call Officer Jenny, she will have a nice cell waiting for them to spend the night in and even personally pick them up here her self."

The young Grant's eyes sparkled at the new power he suddenly gained but it did not last long as he noticed us standing by the door of the gym unsure if we had witnessed the whole fiasco that had gone down.

"Grant we seem to have proper challengers this time. I'll battle them since I got some time before Inter Pol calls but make sure to close the Gym early today since I'll be out of the City for some time."

"On it Dad! .... How can I help you? Are you here for a gym battle?"

Grant straightened up, turning to us with a professional air.

"Yes, Yes I am."

I answered firmly.

"No, No I am not. Just here to cheer on this cutie patootie."

"Cutie yes but what ever a patootie is, No."

Grant was watching our banter with a clear disinterest and took the odd exchange in stride.

".... Okay then, follow me to the counter to scan your I.D. I hope your ready as the Gym leaders Pokémon are all fresh and in tip top shape since your the first challenger to have arrived today."

I scanned my trainer I.D and the Gym leader Hector who was at the side caught my name in the screen and smirked.

"Your Albert Ryuma?"

"I am, I once asked for your family's help together with the Stone family from Hoenn a few years back to study my Steelix while it was still an Onix."

"Yes, I remember. The data gathered was instrumental in understanding the possible form variants of the Onix line could have. Now It says here you have two badges but I don't think you're interested in battling Beginner and Ace rank Pokémon, are you?"

"If possible I would like to battle you're Elite team based on the gym rules"

"Haha now that's what I like, so a two vs two with Pokémon from my main team. Ramos sent a message in the system to the gym leaders thread a while back informing us to not take you lightly."

(I did not expect for Ramos to put my name on a Gym leaders watch list. Would have preferred if it was not in any watch list but I guess this does not really affect me much, right?)

"It seems that my name had been really going around lately."

I noted jokingly while a hint of worry flickered across my face, masked by an awkward smile as I considered the implications of his words.

"More than you realize."

'.....'

.....

After registering and paying the 5k Pokedollar fee for battling a gym leaders main team, we were then led deeper in the facility until we emerged into a massive cavern filled with towering rock columns rising from a chasm below. In the center stood a rocky mound nearly five stories tall illuminated by light shining from a wide opening in the cavern roof effectively brightening up the place. Looking around their was no visible arenas which made me wonder as to where will be having the battle.

"Where is the arena?"

"Its on top."

Grant answered as if already expecting the question, it was all too obvious that I was not the first to ask. I look upward and realized that the rock formation is similar to the plateaus of Lumiose Badlands and must have a clearing on top.

(Ohh right, before his battle, Ash had to climb this in the show although I remember their being stepping stones or was I mistaken?)

"So, were expected to climb this?"

I asked, eyeing the vertical rock face.

"Are you nuts? there's a perfectly working elevator right there."

This time Hector was the one to answer looking at me as if I was crazy however Grant who was beside his dad had a different expression.

"Climb the rock, hmm ....."

The boy as if gaining enlightenment gazed upon the large rock face with gleaming eyes as if getting a new toy to play with.

"Grant, don't get any ideas."

"Fine, but when I become the Gym leader I will climb this Rock and maybe even make challengers climb it too!"

Hectors revealed a worried look after hearing the said plan the future heir of his gym have making it apparent this was another issue he needed to nip in the bud but little did he know, like the fossils he adores the idea that sprouted in his sons mind was already set in stone.

"The lawsuits will make you regret doing that so don't. Just use the lift, I had it installed for a reason and not because I hate using the stairs."

"But ....."

"No buts."

"Hmph! 'murmurs'"

Grant muttered before scampering off to operate the lift. After taking the elevator up the giant rock formation we saw a clearing and in the middle is an arena filled with rocks and boulders making it an ideal battle field for Rock and Ground types.

Anita moved to the spectator stands facing the arena while I took my position on the challengers podium. On the opposite side is Gym leader Hector while Grant acted as the official referee for the match.

"This will be an official gym match between our own Hector Cliff versus the challenger, Albert Ryuma from Lumiose city. The Battle will be a 2 on 2 and only the challenger is allowed to substitute their Pokémon."

"Go Al, bring home the Tepig!"

Anita started cheering enthusiastically which made me realize this was my first match with an active supporter watching from the stands.

(Then I need to put on a good show.)

"Better start with something that has a bite, Come out and wreak havoc Tyrantrum!"

As for his first Pokémon, Gym leader Hector sent out a more than 4 meter tall crimson theropod that exuded a pressure that dwarfed everything on the arena.

"A Tyrantrum!?"

I couldn't hide my shock as I stared at the behemoth in front of me.

(If I recall correctly those of the Cinnabar lab aren't even willing to sell their revived Pokémon since the League is lining their pockets not to, so how does he have a Tyrantrum? On that point how do I get one my self?)

Fossil restoration was a breakthrough made only five years ago at a lab on Kanto's Cinnabar Island. The technology and process being highly coveted by the other Regions but the Indigo League kept it all under lock and key only sharing papers involving the biology of the revived Pokémon.

"You look surprised, I'm certain ancient Pokémon like Tyrantrum is not that rare now a days since the invention of fossil revival."

"I know but from what I read the Cinnabar lab only do restoration for fossils native in Kanto and Johto so how do you have a Tyrantrum? On that point how did you convinced them to give you a revived Pokémon?"

"That's correct, but this girl is not revived from a fossil. I found her sleeping underground as a Tyrunt. They are called 'living fossils', Its a rare occurrence but several instances of ancient Pokémon being found deep underground or incased in ice glaciers sleeping undisturbed for thousand to million of years. Its unknown how they are able to sustain themselves without food, water or oxygen but upon waking up they able to function without any complications."

(Then its like the Aerodactyl and group of other Kanto fossil Pokémon from the first season of the anime. Heck, I remember another episode where an island made up of Kabuto's all waking up at the same time. I always wondered what up with them.)

"The research being done in the subject is still in its infancy, although the current leading theory is that ancient Pokémon have the capability of hibernating indefinitely until woken up or disturbed which is still heavily debated today. If you want to know more the dream laboratory in Unova have been studying the phenomena has been publishing some fascinating papers on the subject."

Hector explain his knowledge on the subject as if certain that I was gonna ask for the details. He was not wrong since it was something I had never thought about before and has certainly pique my curiosity.

"Thanks for the lesson but Living fossil or not, I'm not one to take a battle lightly, come out Milo ....."

'Gible!'

As if waiting for its time to shine Gible came out of its Pokeball and sent out a fighting cry with its tiny arms raised up in the sky as if asserting dominance.

"""Gible?"""

Me along with the Gym leader father son duo cried out in disbelief towards the little land shark that appeared on the field.

"A Gible? This hardly align with the 'I don't take battles lightly' claim of yours."

Hector gave a questioning remark and was clearly trying to hold off laughing while looking at the small Gible prancing around.

" ..... Give me a minute."

"Sure but this is a official gym battle so no do overs here."

Hector said as if used to such sights with his years of experience being a gym leader, allowing us to atleast make the best of our situation.

"I get it the rules and stuff, thank you. Now my adorable toothy friend ..... why did you come out?"

'Gib Gible Gib, Gible!'

"You don't want to be left out again in another gym battle?"

'Gible.'

(I see, Gible was sidelined on the past two Gym matches and felt left out but the stage is just not yet right for the little guy. I don't plan to have a Misty's Psyduck situation in my hand so I need to get this resolved sooner than later.)

"I understand your sentiment Gible but first look at what your going to be up against and tell me that your up for it because I promise you, they will not be holding back unlike your training battles with our team mates."

'.....'

The tiny land shark still oblivious to its predicament turned its sight on the gigantic prehistoric monstrosity, eyeing it from head to toe before gazing back towards me.

'Gible, Gib'

Beaming with confidence, Gible gave what accounts for a thumbs up with his three digit fingers.

"You can take it on? What in your Garchomp mommies tail fin made you think you can take that on?"

'Gible Gib'

"Your teeth is sharper? ..... that things teeth is as big as you are tall, you know that right?"

'Gib.'

Gible answered with a huff of certainty not even sliver of doubt in its beady little eyes.

"Fine, lets just do our best."

I sighed in resignation.

(The only silver lining here is I could substitute Gible with Milotic if came to a point that it proves to much for it to handle.)

'Gible!'

"I respect that can do attitude. Just remember our training and keep away from its jaws while using your size to stay in its blind spots, got that?"

'Gib Gible Gible'

Gible not a lick of doubt in itself, did a few stretches with its small limbs to show that its ready to go.

"That poor Gible is going to get wrecked."

"Grant! You're the referee of the match you need to be impartial."

Grant as if witnessing the biggest joke he seen all week gave his honest opinion of our situation before getting reprimanded with a hiss of a call from his father. After a minute of doing what I can with the unexpected series of events, I walked back to the podium.

"So ready?"

"Well, as ready as we can be I guess."

"Then let us test if your little dragon could at least handle a few rocks. Tyrantrum use Rockslide!"

'Tyrantrum!'

Tyrantrum let out a deafening roar before materializing a wave of falling rocks which it sent hurling towards Gible.

"Its Rockslide, Gible you know what to do. Duck, dig, and cover!"

'Gible!'

'Tak!'

Having trained with Steelix, Gible was all too familiar with the move Rockslide and effortlessly maneuvered its way out of the strike zone of the falling debris by tunneling deep into the arena floor.

"Gible lets show them how we shake the field, Use Bulldoze!"

'Gib, Gible!'

'Boom!'

Gible who dug its way a several feet below its target released a barrage of Bulldoze which caused the ground Tyrantrum was standing on to explode in a series of landmine like blasts.

(That should have done some good damage considering they will have a hard time guessing from which angle the Bulldoze will come from with this Tyrantrum could only take on the attacks, now just to keep up the pace and .....)

Facing the barrage of explosions, Tyrantrum remained unmoving from its spot with only a few scratches on its legs to show for from the bombardment.

"Interesting strategy but it lacks power, such attacks won't do much to Tyrantrum tough hide. Now its our turn to as you say 'Shake the field' Tyrantrum, bring it back up the surface with Earthquake!"

'Tyrantrum!'

'Whoosh!'

'Pak!'

'Brrrrrrrrrr ...'

The prehistoric Pokémon jumped several meters in the air and struck the ground releasing several shockwaves of energy that tore deep into the field causing the whole arena to start trembling violently.

"Gible dig up!"

'Gible!'

Gible hastily scrambled for the surface but the shockwave caught him just as he broke through. He was tossed into the air as the wave of ground energy battered him.

'Pak!'

'Gible, Gib!'

Gible quickly got back up after he crashing back down. Gible was fortunate to avoid a large chunk of the damage from Earthquake due to it being blasted into the air by the initial wave of the attack.

"That's a surprise, I did not thought your little dragon could escape a direct hit from Tyrantrum's Earthquake while underground."

"I'm more surprised you can use earthquake this close to a populated area."

"I had shock absorber built in place bellow for that very problem. You see we don't like our opponents to use dig to much here it ruins the very rock formation the arena is built upon."

(I was hoping that they won't use the move Earthquake since were so close to the city but considering this is a Rock type Gym it was a bad bet from the beginning on my part. We still need to stay at a distance to avoid a close up fight since its biting moves like crunch can do a lot to Gible due to its ability Strong Jaw.)

"Since bombarding from deep underground is not an option, will just trim the surface. Gible its time to hunt!"

'Gible Gib!'

Gible who was still hurt from the last attack dove down again while weaving just above the surface with its back fin sticking out, jumping out and quickly diving in again like a Palafin in the open sea.

'Gible!'

'Swooooosh!'

'Boom!'

With swift maneuvers Gible swam in circles in a perimeter around Tyrantrum and every time it dives out the ground it sent a blast of Dragon breath towards its opponent.

(This way we could easily jump out if they use Earthquake again while being able to continue sending out attacks.)

Tyrantrum was still standing like a immovable mountain in front of Gible taking each attack to stride.

Tyrantrum stood like an immovable mountain, taking the purple flames to the face without flinching.

"Again, your Gible does not deal enough damage. Tyrantrum show them the strength of the by gone era, use Ancient power!"

"Tyrantrum!'

'Swoosh!'

Tyrantrum created three large rocks that radiated purple energy that it hurled towards Gible in great speeds.

'Gible!

'Tak!'

"Gible!'

'Tak!'

Gible!'

'Tak!'

The rocks whistled in the air and shook the ground each time Gible dodged the incoming attacks, continuously diving in and out of the ground as if to taunt its enemy however it was clear to everyone spectating that one hit could put Gible in a horrible position.

(This is not working, we need a better plan of approach to deal more damage to them. Winning against this match up is like a David and Goliath situation but this time David forgot to bring his sling. I could only have Gible whittle it down or may be tire it out while remaining out its range.)

"Tyrantrum jump to close the distance and then use Crunch!"

Hector who did not take long to figure out our plan begun to take action and start proactively go for Gible.

'Tyra Tyrantrum!'

'Whoosh!'

The four meter plus fossil made another great leap and rose several meters in the air as it intercepted Gible's path.

'Tyrantrum!'

'Gible?!'

Tyrantrum opened its maw wide ready to bite down on its much smaller foe that had just came out of the ground.

"Gible don't let it bite you! Use Dragon Breath on its mouth!"

'Gib Gible!'

'Swoooosh!'

'Boom!'

Not expecting the sudden retaliation in its open maw, Tyrantrum was forced to fall back gagging while Hector was clearly unsettled on what had just occurred.

(So the toughness is only on the outside.)

"Tyrantrum are you okay?!"

'TYRANTRUM!'

After getting its self together, Tyrantrum charged towards Gible like a roaring train making the ground tremble with every step.

"Tyrantrum use your momentum hit it with Head Smash!"

'Tyrantrum!

Hector made use of Tyrantrum's sudden rage filled charge to deliver a devastating attack although weary that his Pokémon's weak spot to be exploited once more.

"Tyran! ..... Tyrantrum!'

(Ohh, this is ....)

For a brief moment a yellow spark of energy coursed through Tyrantrum's body that made it spasm, impeding its advance.

"Tch, darn Paralysis. Tyrantrum don't stop!"

"Tyrantrum!'

Gible's earlier Dragon Breath had Paralyzed Tyrantrum however it was not deterred as it once again continued on its charge but at a noticeably much slower pace due to the status condition.

"Paralysis! Gible this is our chance to turn the table. Spam Dragon Claw and kite Tyrantrum."

'Gible!'

"Pak!'

'Pak!'

Tyrantrums's Head smash was easily evaded by Gible due to Tyrantrum's lowered speed and counter with several hits of Dragon Claw.

"Tyrantrum no need to hold back end this with Outrage!"

'TYRANTRUM!'

'Gible use Metal Claw'

Tyrantrum body was enveloped in a red energy before suddenly bursting out in a berserk frenzy. In its crazed state Tyrantrum swiped its tail towards Gible.

'Gible!'

'Pak!'

In the last moment Gible caught the incoming attack with Metal Claw but due to the difference in power, Gible still took the blunt of the move and was flung away.

"Gible! No!"

'Boom!'

Gible lay in the ground, it was apparent that it was injured in the exchange but is still able to avoid fainting due to defending it self in the last moment with Metal Claw that disperse some of the force away.

'Gible Gib .....'

On its last legs, Gible while gravely hurt, with all it could muster slowly supported its body against the ground and stood up once more.

(I guess training really bore fruit this time but Gible won't be able to take another attack like that.)

"Gible this is enough, have a well deserve rest. Retur ....."

"Gible! Gib Gible!"

Before I could call Gible back he turned to me and threw several cries before staring towards Tyrantrum with its eyes burning with unwavering resolve, unwilling to retreat.

"You're not a quitter... fine. Lets go down in a blaze of glory!"

'GIBLE GIB!'

Upon hearing my support Gible released a mighty roar that was followed by a blinding light that covered its body.

(Its evolving now!?)

Gible's silhouette began to shift with its body stretching longer becoming more slender and streamlined. The dorsal fin on the top of its head as a Gible moved lower to its back and a pair of large fins sprouted from it arms which is tipped with a single claw that replaced its three digits. When the curtain of light faded an imposing form of a Gabite was revealed.

Gabite kept its deep russet and light brown hue while a light aquamarine covered its stripes and under belly that goes throughout below Gabite's tail. Height wise he grew from 1 meter to 1.7 meters while emitting a presence that of an High Ace rank but was bordering on that of a Elite.

(Finally! Gible evolved! I figure he was not far from it from the beginning, this battle must be the final push he needed to drive his evolution. )

"Gab, Gabite!"

Gabite stretched its arms wide and before we know it Gabite took flight. While in the air a dense purple shroud of draconic energy swirling around him forming a silhouette of a soaring ethereal dragon.

"That's Dragon Rush!"

'Gabite!'

Hector looked approvingly toward Gabite however even though Gabite had evolved it was still heavily injured and thus used everything it got this final attack.

"An evolution at the curtain call, haha. I thought the little guy had spunk but its just straight up determined to win. I can't say I don't respect it but don't think evolving will give you the upper hand against us. Tyrantrum, Face it with Outrage!"

'Tyrantrum!'

'Swoosh!'

Tyrantrum, still in a berserk state rushed towards Gabite and once more used Outrage with its whole body radiating a burst of red energy.

'Whoosh!'

The air whistled with the purple and red energies generated by the two colliding Dragon type attacks. Neither Pokémon willing to give an inch to the other.

"Go Gabite, break though!"

'GABITE!'

"Finish this Tyrantrum!'

'TYRANTRUM!'

'Boom!'

Due to having a lot more energy reserved, Tyrantrum broke the deadlock with its Outrage that blasted Gabite in the air before it once again crash to the ground with a loud thud, causing debris of dust and rocks to fill the area. When the dust settle Gabite was seen laid on its side, fainted.

"Gabite return, You did well bud."

I watched as the light faded as I called Gabite back to its Poke Ball. Even though it was an expected outcome it did not feel like a loss, Gabite was able to drive them so far to win, even leading him to evolve in the process .

"For what its worth that was a fine last stand. I'm still surprised that your Gabite ... no even as a Gible it was able deal a lot to Tyrantrum."

"I know ..."

(Gabite did what it could but we were just out powered, now I have the option between Milotic and Steelix but since rock type are usually less specially defensive then I better go with Milotic but considering that Tyrantrum is Rock-Dragon type its makes it Neutral against water makes Steelix a better option type wise.... Well since its still Paralyzed Milotic will be able to easily deal with it. I'll just hope that the next one he sends out is at least weak to Water types.)

"Gabite may have started it but another will sweep this fight, Milotic! Stand by for battle!"

'Mi Milotic!'

Like a well practiced routine, Milotic started performing a ethereal dance while floating in the air causing a drizzle of rain to pour down before transitioning seamlessly into another rhythm of movements that sent a ripple of energy to course through her scales, heightening both her speed and power.

"Hahaha! That's what I'm hoping to see, that presence! that power!"

Hector stared in awe the usual reaction from those seeing Milotic for the first time before giving a hearty laughter as the arena was doused in a steady down pour of water.

'Milotic!'

Milotic finished its dance and elegantly stood poised with regal indifference as if staring down the unworthy, while Tyrantrum on the opposite side of the spectrum radiated the majestic ferocity of the ancient world.

"Milotic no need to size up the competition, finish setting up with Aqua ring and Safeguard!"

'Milotic!'

'Skoosh'

'Shing!'

"Stop them!"

'Tyrantrum!'

Still the under the berserk effect of Outrage Tyrantrum wildly attacked on Milotic who stood its ground while generating a thin, shimmering film of water that enveloped her, followed by a protective veil of light that pulsed once before settling.

'Pak!'

Milotic did not flinch as she took all the barrage of hits from Tyrantrum's Outrage and after setting up both moves, the water covering Milotic shimmered once more which slightly healed Milotic by a small amount but ultimately doing little to fix the abuse she received.

"It doesn't seem practical to let your Pokémon take a beating just for a few minor buffs and yet heal for so little."

"Is that so?"

I smirked and as if on cue a vibrant green energy surged through Milotic causing the bruises and scuffs from the Outrage to vanished instantly, her scales returning to their pristine, iridescent sheen. Meanwhile, a sharp crackle of yellow energy spasmed through Tyrantrum's body. The paralysis had prodded again, snapping it out of its berserk state and halting its attack.

(With this the odds is back to our favor. Milotic just need to end this quick to not waste anymore energy it would need for the next fight.)

".... I see so you were waiting for this."

Hector's face turned sour not hiding his disdain after seeing Milotic recover as if nothing happened while Tyrantrum was still hindered by Paralysis.

"This is just a start. Milotic, use Hydro pump!

'Mi Milotic!'

'Whoooosh!'

Milotic agreeing with my remark gave a small huff before releasing a pillar of high pressure water that gush towards Tyrantrum.

'Tyrantrum, don't let it push you back! Intercept with Head Smash!'

'Tyrantrum!'

'Whoosh!'

Tyrantrum surged forward, his stone crown glowing with devastating power as he rammed through the column of water, closing the gap with terrifying speed.

"Milotic use Iron Tail!"

'Milotic!'

'Shing!'

Milotic continued blasting Tyrantrum with Hydro pump while winding up her tail that ignited with a brilliant, metallic silver sheen in anticipation to her opponents approach.

'Pak!'

'Boom!'

Milotic's tail whipped in the air and stuck the side of Tyrantrums's head with a sound like a hammer hitting an anvil. The force of the attack sent its opponent crashing to the muddy ground.

(Milotic may be more Specially oriented but several stacks of Dragon Dance easily changes that, unless they're prepared before hand there's little thing they can do to beat Milotic.)

'Tyrantrum'

Greatly injured from the attack, Tyrantrum struggled to his feet, swaying dangerously its apparent that one more hit like that could finish it off.

"I guess I underestimated those Dragon Dances and Paralysis slowing Tyrantrums's momentum down is another problem, this won't do ....."

'Tyrantrum!'

Hector's voice was tight, trying to find a possible way of tipping the scale back in their favor.

"Milotic finish it with another Iron Tail."

'Milotic!'

'Whoosh!'

"I see their is no other way then we could only give it our all, Tyrantrum use Outrage!"

'Tyrantrum!

Hector commanded Tyrantrum in a last ditch effort to counter Milotic's in coming Iron tail with Outrage that once again caused a burst of red energy to surround its body, entering in another berserk state and run lunging towards Milotic.

'Tyrantrum, Tyran?'

"No! Tyrantrum fight through! Use Crunch!"

In the midst of Tyrantrum's rush, Paralysis triggered once more causing yellow sparks of energy to dance across its hide, effectively halting its advance.

"Milotic, finish it!"

'Mi Milotic!'

'Pak!'

Making use of the opening, Milotic glided forward, her tail still glowing with a metallic sheen which she whipped in the air towards Tyrantrum with a reverberating thunderous clap.

'TYRANTRUM!'

'Chomp!'

'BOOM!'

Trying to catch the oncoming attack, Tyrantrum chomped on Milotic with Crunch but it was too slow and with a loud thud Milotic slammed the Living fossil with Iron Tail back deep into the ground, creating a crater that held a still Tyrantrum in the middle, fully knocked out.

"Tyrantrum return. That Pokémon of your is strong indeed, to a point that only one in my team could possibly match it. Let me introduce my long time partner, come out Barbaracle!"

After returning his Tyrantrum back to its Pokeball, Hector called out a six feet tall Pokémon with a body made out of arm like appendages that was attached to two piece of rocks that made up its chest and hips while eyes could be seen on each of its many palms.

The Pokémon showed its age as the seven Binacle that make up its body displays a much darker hue compared to the normal brown I've seen in the past. Each of its claws gleaming in the sunlight, clearly sharpened by countless battles to have reach such a state.

(Again? Why another Rock type Pokémon that's not weak to Water? I guess Steelix was the correct choice after all but no use crying over spilled milk since Milotic will surely pull out another win.)

I have fought Low Elite rank Barbaracle before at the penthouse but its not close to being this strong. This Barbaracle exudes a presence that of a High Elite rank nearly bordering that of a Elite four rank Pokémon. Its certain that this Pokémon is stronger than the Tyrantrum we had just faced.

"Barbaracle, we need some additional power for this one! Swords Dance and Rock Polish!"

'Barba! Barbaracle!'

As if anticipating the command, the multi-limbed Pokémon greatly heightened its attack and speed by moving its claws in a rhythmic motion akin to a lethal dance which was followed by a bright shimmer that covered the surface of the rocks that make up its body giving it a glossy sheen.

"Now Barbaracle use Razor Shell!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swoosh!'

Barbaracle surged forward as all four of its claws generated a layer of water that took the form of blades reminisce of daggers which it used to rush towards Milotic.

(With that much boost they easily match or even over power Milotic attack wise but they won't be able to take us down that easily.)

"Milotic counter it with Iron Tail!"

'Milotic!'

'Shing!'

'Ting!'

Milotic's Iron tail Intercepted the onslaught of attacks that rained down from Barbaracle's Razor Shell. The two water types faced each other like a knight and a rouge, a battle between Milotic's single whipping sword tail against Barbaracle's four dagger like hands that stretched like rubber.

The exchange was evidently on Barbaracle's favor as each of its attacks flowed in a perfect synchronized chain, Overlapping with each other in an unending barrage that rained down on Milotic in unpredictable angles while still defending against the onslaught of slashes that came in its way.

(Were out skilled! I've trained Milotic in the use of Iron tail through imitating a whip and a sword but their movement is clearly on a different level.)

"That's one of the best usage of Iron tail I've seen in years however Barbaracle here trained in martial arts so don't expect simple predictable attacks would work on us."

"Since we won't win in a frontal fight then will focus on keeping them at a distance. Milotic set the boundary with Counter Shield!"

'Milotic!'

'Whoosh!'

Milotic released a whirlpool of surging water that spun around her. It rose as a barrier that whipped about throwing Barbaracle away.

(Milotic's mastery over whirlpool is still far from perfect however it served as a good foundation to use in tandem with counter shield which made setting it much faster compared to using Surf as the base.)

"A truly spectacular display! Hahaha!"

"Go Al, Go! show them what for!"

Hector seeing Counter shield for the first time laughed in excitement while Anita started cheerfully dancing and chanting with her Pompoms.

'Barbaracle!'

'Tak!'

Water splashed and sprayed about as Barbaracle begun striking the whirlpool of whipping water that protected Milotic but try as it might the barrier remained strong.

"Wonderful use of a move, by the using centrifugal force your able to form a defensive wall that also dealt damage to those that try to breach it but their is no such thing as a perfect shield, Barbaracle look for weak spots with Rock blast."

'Bar Barbaracle!'

'Bam!'

In a quick succession Barbaracle created several chunks of rocks a feet in diameter that it blasted towards the water that whipped around Milotic.

'Tak!'

The rocks whistled in the air as they flew and hit varying points of the barrier but was all torn down, all the same.

"May be we just need another angle of attack, Barbaracle used dig!"

"Barbaracle Bar!"

'Tak!'

'Brrrr brrr brrr'

Seeing little success in breaching the wall of water from above Barbaracle was commanded to burrow, quickly disappearing underground.

(So they plan on avoiding the rapids but this makes them a sitting Psyduck since their is only one place they could breach Milotic's defense, directly bellow!)

"Milotic use Ice beam on the ground!"

'Milotic!'

'Pak!'

'Bzzzzz!'

As the surface under Milotic started shaking, she jumped in the air causing the counter shield to collapse causing a pool of water to crash down in a flash flood before firing a ray of cold energy towards where it was positioned before.

'Barba?

'Tik!'

Barbaracle who had just dug its way out of the ground looked around in confusion upon not finding its target but before it realize what happened a ray of freezing energy rained on it from above that froze the pooled up water along with Barbaracle's lower body in ice.

"Barbaracle get out fast use Metal claw!"

'Shing!'

'Tak!'

The Binacle on Barbaracle body that avoided being frozen heard its trainers command and used Metal Claw to start chipping away at the ice that covered the rest of its body.

(Wait, those can detach?)

"Milotic stop them with Hydro Pump!"

'Milotic!'

'Whooosh!'

'Boom!'

Milotic launched a powerful jet of water towards the unincapacitated Binnacle's dealing a substantial amount of damage but it did not stop them from freeing the rest of itself from the ice that kept it held.

"Milotic don't let up barrage Hydro Pump!"

'Milotic!'

'Whoosh!'

"I'll take a page from your play book, Barbaracle spin in place while using Razor claw!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swiiish!'

In a literal surprising twist, Barbaracle dispersed some of the water that was blasting it by using a variation of counter shield with Razor shell. It was similar to how Steelix uses rapid spin to deflect attacks by spinning it body in place.

(As to be expected from a experienced Gym leader, he was able to understand and put into use a tactic he had just seen but its with its own flaws as they lack the finesse that mastery over a move gives.)

"Milotic intercept it!"

'Milotic!'

'Whoosh!'

'Pak!'

Once more Milotic put up a whirling cyclone of water that whipped about and collided with Barbaracle. The impacts caused by the collisions resulted in water splattering around but the tide is still in Milotic's favor as each bout was slowly hindering Barbaracle's momentum.

"Barbaracle concentrate on a single point, use Liquidation!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swoosh!'

'Boom!'

A strong gush of water burst out of Barbaracle's appendages and by focusing all of it into a single point the flow of water generated by Milotic's Counter Shield was destabilized, creating a large gap that allowed Barbaracle to breach through.

"Barbaracle use Razor Shell!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swooosh!'

In a flurry of consecutive strikes, Barbaracle rained down on Milotic who did not expect its defenses to be toppled.

(They broke through! I should have expected it but Counter Shield as strong as it may be still has a thresh hold of how much it could take.)

"Milotic don't allow it to continue, cool it down with Ice Beam!"

'Milotiiiiic!'

'Bzzzzzzz!'

'Tik!'

'Barba!'

'Tik!'

'Barbaracle!'

'Tik!'

A freezing ray of energy blasted Barbaracle from a point blank range and was quickly frozen on the spot, fully incasing it from head to toe in a feet of ice and unlike before this time around every Binacle in Barbaracle's body was frozen hindering it from being able to quickly chip it self out.

(That will keep it in place for some time.)

"Milotic use Recover!"

'Milotic!'

A bright green glow once again radiated from Milotic and slowly erased most of the damage sustained. Aqua Ring may have been continuously healing Milotic but it was insufficient in keeping it in manageable degree of health but with Recover she was able to heal a substantial amount that left the damage it had received to be inconsequential if given the opportunity.

"Again with this? Barbaracle use Liquidation to break free!"

'Bar! Barbaracle!'

Barbaracle who was still conscious inside the ice heard its trainers command and generated water in its appendages that slowly started to pool inside the ice that incased it unable to immediately free it self and break the ice but was visibly causing cracks to form all over.

'Tak!'

'Barbaracle!'

'Boom!'

Just as Milotic finish healing a loud thud echoed out from the Ice that trapped Barbaracle. The cracks caused by the generated water inside the ice expanded until it shattered due to the built up in pressure allowing Barbaracle to burst out from the prison of ice that kept it held.

(Just in time, We may have only been able to whittle them down bit by bit but all that still stacks up since they don't have any sustain like Milotic.)

"Barbaracle we need to end this quick use Shell Smash."

Seeing that Milotic was constantly healing with Aqua ring and Recover it made things clear that a war of attrition won't be good for them as such Hector decided to bet everything on a single strike.

'Barbaracle!'

'Pak!'

'Tik! Tak! Tik!'

With a swing of its claws, Barbaracle struck the rock that made up its chest that resulted to several cracks to form and spread. This boosted Barbaracle's attack and speed to the limit but greatly lowering its defenses in the process.

"Barbaracle bring it down with Liquidation!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swoosh!'

(I thought they had already maxed out their attack and speed but I guess they were holding out as a surprise factor or insurance of sorts. I don't think another Counter Shield will be able to hold them off but I still have ways of keeping them at a distance.)

"Milotic use Ice Beam!"

'Milotiiiic!'

'Bzzzzzz'

'Titk!'

'Tak!'

'Tik!'

'Tak!'

Using the great increase in attack and speed Barbaracle rocketed towards Milotic, powering through the Ice Beam that came it way by destroying the Ice that builds up in its body as it got closer however unbeknownst to it due to the water generated by earlier clashes a large portion of the arena flooded causing it to be quickly frozen in a layer of ice and mud.

'Slik'

'Pak!'

As Barbaracle rush forward it slipped in the ice covered ground causing it to face plant hard.

'Barba!'

'Slik'

'Pak!'

Barbaracle tried to immediately stand back up but due to the icy surface it is unable to stabilizer itself and kept on falling back down.

"Barbaracle focus and use Stone Edge on Milotic!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Tak!'

Stopping its pointless venture of attempting to get a grip on the ice Barbaracle instead sent rocky spires to jut out of the ground that trailed towards Milotic destroying the layer of ice it comes across.

"Milotic counter with Iron tail!"

'Milotic!'

'Shing!'

'Pak!'

When Stone Edge entered Milotic's reach it was cut down by a swift swipe of its Iron tail however due to rocks that was sprung out of the ground from the move a straight passage was created that led towards Milotic.

"Barbaracle end this with barrage of Liquidation!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Swoosh!'

With the created path way, Barbaracle once again charged towards Milotic using each of the protruding stones as a foothold in its advance.

(They made a bridge!)

"Milotic stop them with Disarming Voice!"

'Milotic!'

'Boom!'

A loud echoing wail was emitted by Milotic that expanded towards Barbaracle in the form of pink pulse of energy damaging and pushing back its advance before fully stopping it in its track a few feet away, putting it in a defenseless state open to attacks.

"Now use Iron Tail then follow it up with Hydro Pump!"

"Milotic!"

'Shing!'

'Pak!'

At that crucial moment Milotic slammed Barbaracle with a whip of its tail tossing its foe flying in the air.

'Swoosh!'

"Barbaracle defend your self with Rock Slide!"

'Barbaracle!'

'Tak!'

Expecting the oncoming attack, Barbaracle created several rock that fell in front of it, shielding it self from the concentrated surge of water that Milotic sent its way but it as all for naught as the attack bore through and made its way towards Barbaracle.

'Boom!'

Barbaracle was hit by the attack and sent it crashing into the arena causing shards of shattered fragments of stone rubble and dirt to fly all over. When the dust cleared Barbaracle was seen fainted as the damage from the battle had stacked up and finally taken a toll and due to its lowered defenses the last exchange had put it down for the count.

"..... Barbaracle is unable to battle, the winner of the Cyllage City Gym battle is Albert Ryuma of Lumiose city."

Grant after double checking the field with doubt and a bit of hesitation announced our victory in a well practiced manner.

"We won!"

"Return Barbaracle. Congratulations kid that was a well fought battle even if we did not go for that desperate ploy we were still on borrowed time with that regenerating monstrosity of yours."

"Thanks! Both Milotic and Gible or I guess Gabite now, performed outstandingly. I couldn't have asked for more."

'Mi Milotic!'

"Yeah, your the best for carrying it in the last stretch, rest for now."

I called back Milotic and stepped down of the podium before meeting up with Anita who was jumping in joy on a level that looked like she's the one that won the battle. While I was calming Anita's jitters, Hector walked towards us after being given a rectangular silver case by Grant.

"Your Pokémon has displayed remarkable prowess through undeniable skill. A team with such a rock solid foundation will get you far. Here, You've earned this, the Cliff Badge."

Hector opened the case and inside was the Cyllage City's gym Badge. It looked like three declining layered bricks that seem to insinuate the layers of soil which shows the type of gym it came from, similar to the Leaf motif of the Plant Badge I got from Ramos and the the two Colliding fist design of the Rumble badge given by Gurkinn.

I took the badge and put it away in my bag which made Grant give a weird disappointed look to my action.

"You beat my dads powerhouse and ace yet you won't even do a victory pose with the badge?"

"A what now?"

I asked in confusion not knowing what he was expecting of me while Grant stared with an expression as if asking 'Seriously?'.

"You know a victory pose. Most trainers do a pose while raising their newly acquired badge in the air, some even do a one liner."

Anita who looks like she knows what Grant was talking about explained in detail what in their point of view I was doing wrong.

"Ahh ..... nah, I'm good. Maybe some other next time."

"".....""

Both Anita and Grant said nothing about my denial but shared a disappointed look in their eyes.

(I already decided not to, so no amount of judging stares will change my mind. Wait I just remembered if Hector's Tyrantrum was not revived from fossil then it could possibly be able to ....)

I ignored the duo and turn my attention back to Hector to ask about a certain topic.

"Sir, Hector, I would like to inquire about your Tyrantrum, by any chance that it could breed?"

It was the question of the century, when Cinnabar Island lab had published their findings on the biology of the revived specimens one thing was absolute, it was that all of the fossil Pokémon are unable to breed causing the opportunity to raise a fossil Pokémon from an egg to be but a dream to many. They formulated that it would take at least a decade to fix the underlying issue since they are not willing to open up the data to the wider world which could fundamentally hasten the process of finding a possible solution.

(Since Hector's Tyrantrum is a Living fossil, I'm confident that it would be able to breed and deliver a Tyrunt Egg! The Tyrantrum line is a rare Rock-Dragon type, this could be the only chance I get in obtaining one and I'm not letting it slip by me.)

Hector stared with a visible smirk plastered on his face as if already knowing what I'm trying to imply with my obvious inquiry.

"I see that my Tyrantrum got your attention, well it make sense since your from a family that specializes in training Dragon types. To answer your question, yes my Tyrantrum is able to breed."

"Ohh! Then how much do you sell a Tyrunt or better yet a Tyrunt Egg?"

"Cost aside their is no chance for you to procure one from me in the next eight to ten years since viable spots have already been booked from prior reservations."

"Eight to ten years? Why does it take so long?"

"There are several underlying issues first Tyrantrum like most Dragon-types as you know is very picky on choosing its mate not to mention that it has a long five year breeding cycle and each cluster in a batch only contains three to four eggs. Tyrantrum also does not allow for its Eggs to be taken away before hatching which means that Tyrunt eggs are out of the picture. Not to mention that it takes a Tyrunt Egg one to two years to hatch. In addition I only send out male Tyrunts while the female are in reserve to my family, I think you should understand why."

My mood soured upon realizing the time it would take but it was not much of a surprise considering that their is no shortage of potential buyers but so little supply.

(I doubt that Hector only have one Tyrantrum with all the female Tyrants his family must have raised. From what I can understand he must only be breeding a single specimen which is also the strongest one in order to keep the supply low while allowing the quality and therefore the price to remain high. In the subject of distributing only the males I can surmise that it must be due to wanting to keep a monopoly of the market which I can respect but was still annoying considering that the price itself is not much of an issue. In the end it makes it so that I need to wait out the eight to ten years before I can obtain one myself.)

"That's fine with me."

"Then I'll prepare the contract and mail it to your parents on a later date to have it finalized but as far as I'm concerned this officially makes two member of your family to have reserved a Tyrunt."

(Two?)

My head subconsciously tilted in my confusion after hearing about the sudden revelation.

"My parents also booked one?"

"You didn't know? Your mother had asked for a specimen to be set aside for her eighth years back. If everything goes as planned then she can pick it up in two years time."

(Mom must have been planning to add a Tyrantrum in her team by training up a Tyrunt.)

"Now that the formalities have been finished I also have a request of my own. Simply put, I would like to see that Steelix of yours."

Hector's eyes gleaming with a sudden serious intensity before awkwardly asking to see my Steelix.

(He must have been holding back from asking that entire time after the match. Well the chance of seeing a rare variant is hard to come by so I kind of understand his position.)

"I guess its okay. Come out Steelix!"

'Steelix!'

I called Steelix out of its ball since the request did not seem to be that of a big deal and when it popped out of its Heavy Ball and revealed it self both Hector and Grant was left stunned and seemed to stare on in wonder.

"So that's the Steelix! I got several data on it from what the researcher we sent had gathered but seeing it in person I can tell that what I've read does not compare to what its truly capable of. Too bad you did not use it during the battle."

"I was planning too but well you know what happened next."

I answered in a helpless tone since Gible taking part was an unexpected twist but it still all worked out in the end in addition to him evolving into a Gabite.

(Not gonna lie I will miss Gible's cute round awkward shape but its the price in exchange for power ..... and looking cool.)

"Dad, is that really a Steelix? Why is it covered in Ice?"

Grant who seem to be not informed on the matter ask about Steelix and how Hector knew about it. As such Hector explained the situation of what occurred a few years back.

It seems that this was Grants first time seeing a variant species of Pokémon and was greatly fascinated by the one of a kind specimen. The father and son duo had a field day touching and observing the icy serpents crystalline body for a few minutes before getting back to their gym duties leaving Steelix feeling somewhat violated.

(For some reason I feel that I owe Steelix an apology.)

....

llllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll Line break llllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll

.... A few moments later ....

We made our way back to the Pokémon center to have Gabite and Milotic healed. In Gabite's case it was certain that it would need to be thoroughly checked out and given time to properly recuperate.

"Finally, I have my third badge!"

"Third? then you can now request for a Beginner promotion and even get the nice perks that comes with it, congrats Al"

"Thanks! I'm at least gonna be at bronze color now."

After walking to the Pokémon center counter, I requested a evaluation from nurse joy after presenting my badges and trainer I.D. It did not take long for the computer to scan my history and after finding no problem with my record my Rookie Trainer I.D was taken as I'm to be issued a new one signifying that as far as the league is concerned I'm now officially classified as a Beginner rank trainer.

Their are specified color for each respective trainer rank going from white, bronze, silver, gold, pink, purple and black. Every trainer starts out at the Rank of Rookie and is given a white Trainer I.D.

When a trainer reaches certain mile stones of obtaining their 3rd, 6th, and 8th badges, they could apply for a promotion to their trainers rank, rising from Beginner, Ace, Elite with the corresponding color of bronze, silver, and gold. This first three stages allows the trainer to gain some special perks such as a 10%, 20% and 30% decrease on the price of any Poke mart items and league services ranging from transportation to even land purchases depending on their rank.

What follows are only for the cream of the crop as to be promoted to a pink card, a trainer is required to reached the end of the regions Victory Road or win a league championship. Elite rank trainers with a pink card are given the perks of gaining a honorary noble title and allowed to challenge a instated Elite four of the region for their position.

The Champion rank with the purple card however is given to those who not only defeated all four of the region instated Elite trainers known as the Elite four but also defeat the regions reigning Champion. If they succeed in this endeavor they are given the choice of either being crowned the new reigning Champion or just taking the Champion rank without taking away the seat although this rarely happens. The reward given to champions is a full noble title unlike honorary nobles, true nobles is a hereditary title that can be passed on through generation with an annual stipend from the league as long as they follow a few rules and responsibilities that came with the position.

The final black card is only handed to those that have not only reached the Champion rank but also accomplish legendary feats that is worth adding to history books, they are trainers that holds the Master rank.

As of today their are only two active Master rank trainers well known to the public, Mustard the current champion of the Galar region and our very own Kalos region's champion Roderick Mortimer. A few decades back their were several other well known Master rank trainers one name however caugth me by surprise.

(Samuel Oak. I remember that Professor Oak was once a trainer with his younger self shown in the Celebi movie but I've never considered him to reach such heights in his career. I thought of him to be more of a bookworm to be honest.)

It seem that every recorded Master rank today came from the same generation almost 50-70 years ago. League ranking was made to indicate the skill level of trainers based on their official recorded accomplishments but their are outliers such as my myself that goes out of the norm.

The methodology may have its flaws but it served as a effective way a for Region to keep track of its trainers growth and using this the league is also able to quantify a Regions over all strength.

It only took a few minutes before I got my new trainer I.D. Any trainer can increase in rank as long as they have the appropriate number of badges and pass a review from a nurse joy to check if the trainers Pokémon are all on good health.

After obtaining my new Trainer I.D, I called back home for my weekly mandated report, wanting to share the good news relating to my 3rd badge as well as the evolution of Gible.

Our talk started out as usual with a few congratulatory remarks from my father and then I remembered that I forgot to relay the news of my success in teaching Zweilous a new move we created.

"Ohh yeah, I was also able to make what I think to be a new Dragon type move with Zweilous"

"That's good .... Sorry son, you did what?"

"I was able to create and teach a new dragon type move for Zweilous"

"I see, hold a moment. I'll be calling your mother"

'Beep'

"Call mom? but why ... hello? Dad, you there?"

'.....'

It took less than a minute before another call connected and a excited voice rung out from the other line.

"Albert! What new move is have you made? Ae you sure it isn't one already recorded in the league data base? What are its effects? ...."

"...."

It was clear I did not understand how amazing the prospect of creating a new Pokémon move is. Seemingly unsurprised about my confusion, father explained the overlaying aspects that made my accomplishment to be considered note worthy.

"Al you must understand, Creating a new move is something only few people has ever successfully achieved in the past and it takes years of trial and error spanning though generations due to the steep requirement needed for both trainers and Pokémon alike."

"I see so its does not happen often?"

(A world unlike the games where TM and HM exist that could automatically teach a Pokemon a move but this world is more like the anime in that case where the only way to teach a Pokemon anew move is through their own talents and hard work.)

"Many tried but so few ever get so show any result much less actually succeed. Let take the move Toxic as an example, it was created by a Ninja clan that specializes in poison types in the Johto region over 400 years ago. It took them generations of trial and error before succeeding. Their discovery of this move allowed them to reach one of the top echelons of the noble families in their region and till this day they held such high prestige by keeping the tutoring process of the move a secret with only a few chosen members of their clan knowing the methodology and process in teaching the move."

(If its the ninja clan in Johto the only one that comes in mind is Koga's clan but I never knew they offer tutoring for Toxic. Its a move I would be happy for Milotic to learn.)

"Then that single move became the foundation for their rise in power?"

"Indeed, they welcome trainers from all around the world and picking those that they deem worthy. The ones chosen are allowed to leave their Pokemon and pay a hefty sum to the Clan tutor who will teach the move to their Pokemon for a set amount of time."

"Wait but don't a few wild Pokémon naturally learn Toxic? Then how can they claim that they invented the move if it is already in nature."

"The move did not exist anywhere before it was created by them. After some time when a large enough number of Poison type Pokemon learned the move through several generations their offspring started to be able to natural learn the move on their own."

My mother pitched in and added another instance which was Draco Meteor a move which she had told me about in the past that was created by the Dragon clan in Sinnoh which my mother is a member to.

She explained that like the ninja clan from Kanto her ancestors tutored the Pokémon of those they deem worthy however unlike Toxic till this day no Pokémon is known to be able to learn the move Draco meteor naturally on their own due to its complexity.

From what I understood from my parents sudden history lesson on Pokemon moves is that the focal point that made the task of creating a new move from scratch difficult stems from the biology of the Pokémon in question and whether or not they fit a certain unknown criteria.

The example my father gave for this was Blaze kick it was a move recorded in ancient ruins in the Hoenn region to be created by people in the past and till this day only two Pokémon are known to be able to successfully learn the move being Blaziken and Hitmonlee, both having a physique and biology to deliver powerful kicks as such its speculated that the criteria to learn the move was to naturally have a high kicking prowess.

This fact made one problem apparent that is trainers will not know if they are trying to create and teach a new move to a Pokémon incapable of learning that particular move from the start thus wasting a lot of time and resources in the endeavor.

Pokémon in the wild are known to be able to create and learn new never seen before moves but it also takes generations, pushed by their need to adapt to their environment.

It was clear that to my parents, me being able to succeed in creating a new move is a great accomplishment comparable to the time I told them that I got hold of Mega Evolution.

"Al tell me the process you used and I will try and copy your tutoring method and use it on my team and see if any one of them can learn this move."

"That's fine I'll send a email on the process and methodology later."

"On another note the master Pokeball smith Kurt was able to successfully create a new type of Pokeball with the Dragon type Pokémon by product I sent a few years back. As a show of gratitude the old man sent a few samples to me. I've given one to your fathers company to research and two your way. It will arrive at Ambrette town's Pokémon center so you can pick it up there."

"Really? What type of Pokeball is it?"

Mom dug around her purse and took out a unique Pokeball I never seen before. The Ball itself reminded me of the yet to be created Beast ball in Alola. The top half having azure claw like protrusions wrapping around a purple base that was outlined in a scaled pattern while the bottom remained white like many of Kurt's Pokeball designs.

"Ain't that something."

Unable to hide the amazement in my voice I stared longingly at the screen not wanting to miss a single detail of the new Pokeball created by the famous Pokeball smith of Johto.

"He calls it the Drake Ball. The Poke ball is said to have a higher success rate in catching both Dragon and Flying types."

(Since the majority of the Pokémon byproduct came from moms Noivern Echo its effects make sense but it does make me wonder what would happen if say we sent Kurt byproduct from legendary Pokémon what kind of Pokeball would he be able to create.)

"By the way mom, Cyllage city's Gym leader Hector told me you had reserved a Tyrant from him. I wanted to get one too so a contract will be sent later to either you or dad."

"That's fine our lawyers will have it sorted out and finalized. I could have reserved one for you back then too but your father did not like the idea much, I remember him even paying the Cliff family the same price to not sell me two."

"I regret nothing and don't you dare get one for Alice if she ever take the path as a trainer then find her something less dangerous unlike you did with Al and that Deino."

"Your not making this easy. Best thing that comes to mind is a Swablu."

"Still no, I don't want those wanna be clouds to peck at my beautiful daughter."

"".....""

(I might need to get Alice a Pokémon because as it stand dad may have mom barred from getting her way this time.)

.....

After finishing the call that ended in an awkward silence a man in a blue uniform approached Anita and me and took out two white envelopes.

"Albert Ryuma and Anita Monroe I presume?"

"That's us, what can we do for you?"

"On behalf of Inter Pol, I'm here to deliver the reward for capturing the Poacher Betty. The bounty put by the Johto department amounts to 100k Pokedollar which is split two way."

The Inter Pol agent passed each of us an envelop that I could surmise to be holding the cash reward of 50k Pokedollar.

"Once again on behalf of the Inter Pol we thankyou for your help in apprehending the criminal."

The Inter Pol agent gave a crisp, professional nod before disappearing into the crowd, leaving the two of us standing in the center of the lobby. The surrounding trainers who had been eavesdropping with varying degrees of subtlety broke into a light round of applause.

"Being a Heroic Diva might be a twenty four hour job, but this is why I do it."

Anita said, holding her envelope to her chest like a prized trophy and soaking in the attention.

"The money?"

I asked, already tucking my reward into my bag.

"No! The adoring stares of my soon to be fans!"

Anita chirped, giving a small, theatrical wave to a group of trainers

"Well I'm just happy to receive a bit more pocket money."

Anita stopped her mid victory pose in disbelief to what I had said.

"Pocket Money? This is 5 months worth of my spending for my travels."

"Yeah, pocket money."

"Never mind I forgot your loaded ..... Hmm since we got some extra cash to spend wanna go visit the Cyllage city museum with me before you leave? May be get a few souvenir since the Relic we delivered is being held their as a temporary exhibit this afternoon before the other researches arrive to study it."

"Sure, I at least hope to see what the fuss was about."

"I know right! Well its seem that my mom temporary loaned the relic to the museum for research purposes the reason that the Poacher Guild tried to nab the item was due to its supposed power."

(Supposed power, well that worrying but got nothing to do with me now.)

After a few hours I was able to pick up both Gabite and Milotic back from nurse Joy who confirmed that they had recovered back to full health but advised to let Gabite rest until the following day to avoid any possible complications. We had our lunch back in the Pokémon center before making our way to the museum located near the middle of the city.

The Museum displayed fossils dug around the Region but majority of which seems to have been found in Cyllage city's cliff face. Their were also several relics and artifacts of ancient Kalos that ranged from Jars to accessories that hold wear and tear from the ages past.

After walking around admiring the exhibits we finally reached the one we came to see. Laid upon a podium is a gray round stone with a carved symbol in the shape of a Y on its surface.

"Here it is Al the Charm of Destruction. I talked to mom yesterday about it and it seem that this thingy here is carved from the byproduct of Yveltal's Cocoon after its awakening."

(Yveltal as in one of our regions main legendary Yveltal? Knowing the whole Shtick of that specific Pokémon I'd rather have nothing to do with it but I'm chill with its counter part.)

Looking at the front of the display I noticed what seems to be a placard describing information about the Relic.

"Let see here, An item of religious use. According to ancient legends it has the power to absorb life force leaving its victims in a petrified state while its counter part the Charm of Life and Xerneas blessing being the only things capable of undo its effects."

(Damn, that's scary. So this is the in world version of medusas cut off head?)

"Interesting isn't it? Mom said that people in the past had made a lot of this stuff but only few is found to be this intact due to them being so fragile, well being thousands of years old will do that to almost anything."

'Bzzzzt'

As we were about to leave seven individuals accompanied by two Hypno appeared out of thin air in the corner of the room. The sound of several pairs of boots hitting the floor in perfect unison echoed out as they immediately surrounded the display case holding the Charm of Destruction.

Six of the seven wore a distinct brown camo uniform embroidered with a Net like symbol that is displayed in front of their vest. The one that seem to be leading the group was a tall man wearing a business suit that adorned with the same pattern of colors as the other six however the net symbol embroidered in the front was noticeably larger.

"Who are you people! Teleportation inside the museum premises is banned, explain your selves!"

One of the museum guards approached the mysterious figures and started questioning them in a berating tone.

"Hey, hey, no need to get all worked up. Were here to put on a performance you see."

The tall man showed an aloof expression when talking to the museum staff and even jokingly raised both his hand in the air.

"A show? We were not informed of any performance by the curator."

"Well he must have forgot, since were already here why not lay back and enjoy the show. Hypno use Hypnosis."

'Hypno!'

"What are you ..."

'Thud!'

In a quick back and forth swing of their pendulum the two Hypno put the museum staff to sleep where they stand along with a few of the guest near by the range of the attack. One by one the unconscious group fell to the floor causing other people to panic and run.

"I guess we bore them to sleep but we still need to be paid so I choose this nifty little carved rock here. Theatrics aside lets do this by the book, leave no witnesses, lets not make the same mistake as the idiot that got caught the other day."

As if signaling his men, all of the six grunts called out several Houndours that started attacking and rounding up the other people that was not put to sleep by the Hypno's Hypnosis while the leader of the group put a device on top the podium where the Relic was displayed.

'Pluck!'

'Tick!'

After making a suction like sound the device started cutting a round hole on the glass incasing the Relic.

"Al they are after the Charm!"

(That net emblem, Its really them again.)

"We need to prioritize saving the incapacitated people and taking out the their Pokémon."

"Got it! Princess come out and stop the Houndours!"

'Lopunny!'

Anita, angered by what was happening immediately called out her Lopunny who rushed towards one of the Houndours with a quick attack.

'Hypno!'

'Lopunny?!'

Just as Anita's Lopunny was about to land a hit it was covered in a pink energy that stopped it on its track.

"Ohh, some brats wanna play hero. No matter, Hypno keep the two love birds company."

'Hypno!'

'Whoosh!'

'Boom!'

In a burst of Psychic energy Lopunny who was suspended stationary floating in the air was sent hurling to the ground by one of the Hypno.

"Milotic, stand by for battle!"

'Milotic Mi Milotic!'

'Swoosh!'

I called out Milotic and even before I could say anything it immediately started blasting the two Psychic types with several burst or Hydro pump.

(Her heart might not be in the right place when it came to Psychic types but at least this time the situation calls for it.)

"Al keep those two occupied. Princess lets try this one more time, beat up those Houndour!"

'Lopunny!'

While Milotic was holding off the Low Elite level Hypno duo, Anita's Lopunny was making quick work of the Ace level Houndours with a series of Quick attack and Close Combat which gave us time to slowly round up the sleeping museum staff and allow the conscious visitors to escape.

'Hypno!'

'Whoosh!'

Just as the last Houndour fell the two Hypno tried to force Milotic down with a combine force of their Psychic attack.

'Milotic!'

The weight of the two Psychic Elite Psychic types fell down on Milotic but the golden serpent was all to use to such tactics with her bouts with a certain spoon wielding Pokémon back home.

'Mi Milotic!'

'Pak!'

Gathering Dark type energy, Milotic swiped its tail with Brutal Swing to disrupt the Psychic energy that was holding it in place thus freeing itself from the invisible force.

"We'll be taking this mind you all."

The one who I assume to be another Poacher Guild Admin carefully took the Charm from the podium and stored it on a case.

"Al they have the Charm!"

Anita cried out not wanting her moms prized relic to be taken away.

"We got everything we need from this Region time to return home. Ohh, before we go. Here, since both of you kids are so eager for some action we'll leave this guys here. I know you'll have a blast together, hahaha."

The Admin released an electrode while the other Poacher guild grunts each called out a Voltorb. Seeing the Electrode and several Voltorbs that started rolling towards the walls and columns of the museum a horrifying thought crossed both our mind.

"They wouldn't."

Anita stared in disbelief at what the Poacher Guild has planned to do and knowing the horrifying implication of our situation I hurriedly took action.

"They just did! Anita get down! Milotic return, Steelix come out and use Ice burial to shield us!"

'Steelix!'

'Whoosh!'

'Boom!'

Steelix quickly wrapped its self around the perimeter of everyone including the unconscious group of people with Bind before sealing the outer layer of its body with ice by using Ice fang. Just as Steelix finished defensively positioning itself a series of deafening explosions roared out destroying parts of the load bearing supports of the museum and it did not take long before the whole place came crashing down.

...

'Steelix!'

A few minutes after everything seemed to have calmed down, Steelix who tanked the surround explosions and falling rubble slowly lifted its head and rose up removing building debris like beams and columns that had fallen on top of it. When Steelix was finally able to unbind the majority of its frozen body every one is revealed to be safely guarded in the middle.

Looking around the Poacher Guild was no where to be seen. most likely to be long gone, teleporting away with the two Hypno when the Voltorbs and Electrodes got on their explosive task. It did not take long for the authorities to arrive with officer Jenny alongside Gym Leader Hector and a few Inter Pol agents coming to the scene.

"I can't believe I'm seeing you two so soon. I guess young people really have a tendency to find trouble."

"Just at the wrong place at the wrong time."

I replied to Hector in a helpless voice clear that I had no control over what had occurred.

"That maybe so but everyone at the museum is lucky that you were here, other wise, fossils will be the last kind of remains will be trying to recover in all this rubble."

The Inter Pol agent cut in to commend us since as bad as it may seem we were still able to prevent the worse case scenario.

"On the topic of being here you folks sure took your time to arrive even though were inside a major city."

Anita jokingly said but after hearing her remark the Interpol agents as well as Hectors face soured.

"Even though we hate to admit it, we were dancing in their palm from the beginning."

"What do you mean?"

"Earlier today their were several failed attempts to break free the Poacher Betty from the transport she was on so we sent majority of our men including the Gym Leader Hector to up the security on her but it was all a diversion to get us out of the city. The Poacher guild has disabled the security system and alarms of the museum not to mention trying to bury everyone to leave little of a trace that could link the robbery to them but with your actions they only half succeeded on their endeavor here today."

....

In the next half hour we were questioned on how our nice museum visit ended in a explosive finish. It was a very tiring situation for every one as the Inter Pol agent tried to get as much detail as possible before comparing each statements.

"Since we already got both of your testimonies you are free to leave. I hope both of you have a safe ..... well do your best."

""....""

Hector said sincerely after changing what he was about to say, remembering that getting into trouble is part of being a trainer and in general being young.

Since there was little use for us to stay in the area we left after applying a few spray of Full Restore on both Steelix and Anita's Lopunny. We still made our way back to the Pokémon center to get Steelix checked out after taking a direct hit from several explosions but it seems due to Steelix well layered defenses he only took a bit of damage that he had already healed with the Full Restore but Nurse joy still suggested let it rest for the night in its ball.

Having enough of the fiasco that Cyllage city seems to be throwing our way, I decided not to stay any longer in the area and Anita seems to have the same idea.

"Al, I can't believe those guy took the charm not to mention we were unable to even buy anything from the souvenir shop in the museum that now lay in ruins."

Anita sighed, glancing back at the direction of the museum.

"Forget the relic, I can't believe they tried to bury every one to get rid of the evidence."

"Yeah that too, over all what a way to end our journey together. I guess this is where we part. Its been short but it was fun traveling with you."

"Yeah more or less it was a blast in more ways than ....."

Before I could continue speaking Anita put a finger in front of my lip to stop me from talking.

"Shhhh ... No, don't say anymore it will just make saying good bye harder. Just remember Al, I'll always be in your heart."

"... Excuse me? In my must avoid at all cost list, certainly. Seriously Anita I like the confidence and all but humility is a more charming personality to have."

"Ohh shucks Al. You should know by now that my charm is already maxed out."

"....."

Anita took a river boat heading east to Camphrier Town that passes through route 7 while I continue on south through Route 8. The farewell with Anita was exactly as chaotic as our travels had been a bit theatrical, with a pinch of delusional mixed in but as far as travel companions go I just hope the next one at least less .....well her.

...

Chapter 17 - Blast from the Past!