Part 4
~*~*~*~*~*~
It was dark before they caught up to the pod. Milotic gave Will a lift since he was slowing them down. She also apologized, rubbing her head along his and making a sorrowful noise.
The moon was glimmer in the sky. Dangling in the sky, the waning crescent moon provided minimal illumination for them and much to their chagrin, a storm was kicking up. The waves were getting rough and the seas choppy. The white crests of the waves were only visible as they loomed over head; ready to crash into an unsuspecting victim. William scurried over to the female leader and had Baltoy fetch his bag.
Inside, he pulled out all of his medical rations. He kept the Revives on hand, unsure if they would help or not. Then, he used each of his potions. Two were given to his injured water type, then each of the leaders were given one. The final potion was kept on hand.
He whispered,
“For Gyarados.” Again, his pokémon scoffed him. Lunatone flew away angrily, zipping off to the front of the sphere.
“This is not good.” The teen whispered. Clouds began to creep overhead; quickly blotting out their only source of light.
The pod was forced to slow and pause as they shifted positions. A mixture of males and females circled around the pod and began to glow green. Their combined forces formed a large collective sphere around the entire group. Breathing out a sigh of relief, he climbed on top of the back of the male leader. The younger telepathic Lapras came to their side.
“The leader would like a word with you.” The pokémon spoke.
Will turned and nodded woodenly. A crack of thunder, however, did make him flinch.
“There are a few things I want to ask you, but now is not the time for all of my questions.” The telepath paused, speaking with the leader.
“I. . .” The telepath hesitated,
“would like to ask you in. . .” The two communicated again.
‘Something is either difficult to say for the leader or the telepath doesn’t know how to know what to say.’ Will guessed.
A rather vicious wave rolled over their shield, battering the Lapras.
“How long will the Safeguard hold?” He asked, interrupting them.
“Not long.” The elder telepath interjected.
Will glanced around trying to think of some way they would make it through the storm. He didn’t want to have to break his wish already. There had to be a way to protect them.
The green bubble glows brightly, only for a second, though because it collapsed the moment afterwards. Raging winds and huge surfs slammed into the pod, briefly scattering them. Baltoy used Telekinesis to hold the two younger pokémon while Milotic returned to Will’s side.
“We need to keep the pod together,” he shouted.
Hopping over to the younger telepath, he dug through his bag and pulled out three pokéballs.
“Marshtomp, Duskull and Togepi, return.” Placing them in his bag, he had Baltoy bring Growlithe to him. The small puppy was shivering and howling into the wind.
“It’s alright.” Will declared. He leaned in to grab a fourth pokéball, the one specifically for Growlithe, when a light began to emit from the small dog.
Heat and warmth washed over the teen as he held Growlithe.
‘He just hatched, he can’t be evolving already.’ The teen thought.
“It’s Morning Sun.” The telepath said.
The light grew bright and brighter, allowing the pod to see much further around them then before.
“Thank you.” Will whispered into Growlithe’s ear.
Milotic took the opportunity to counter any waves that threatened to overtake them. With a mighty slap of her tail, she annihilated one particular wave. However, the water began to spiral around her tail.
The snag rang in his bag, signifying some special event. Swinging her tail, the water shifted underneath of them; becoming a large wave.
“That is Aqua Tail.” The telepath whispered again.
The teen straightened up and held Growlithe in his arms.
“We are gonna make it.” He declared, to both himself and to the pod.
“Milotic, don’t exhaust yourself, but keep doing what you’re doing.” The tender pokémon gave one quick nod before she returned to battling the waves.
“Duskull, I need you to help keep an eye on the Lapras make sure they don’t get separated.” Baltoy and Lunatone move nearby, getting access to their trainer.
“It might get worse before it gets better. I’m going to put you two back into your pokéballs before that happens.” Both pokémon nodded, unhappily. They were returned and then stowed inside Will’s bag.
A green shield rose again over the pod, giving both pokémon a bit of a respite.
‘We can’t keep this up all night,’ he thought wearily.
The process continued three times over. Each time, the shield was weaker and shorter than the last. Each time, more waves buffeted the pod and bigger ones were just barely dissipated in time.
“I wasn’t prepared. I endangered my friends and family, needlessly. I’ve already broken my promise to Gyarados,” The teen admitted, sorrowfully.
“I need another miracle.” However, instead of being saved, a powerful wave ripped through the pod.
Dragged underwater, the teen felt the tiny fire pokémon thrash after contact with the cool waters. The ocean went dark after Growlithe lost his focus.
For what felt like minutes, the teen lingered under the water; feeling the push and pull of the ocean. The violent struggle between the currents began to tear the pod in different directions. The brief flashes of light illuminated the trouble that they were having. The fire pokémon squirmed out of his arms and swam for the surface, however, he felt no need. The cool embrace of the deeper water was chilling yet easy. It felt like reclining into a soft bed, comfortable. Spinning over, he gazed down into the inky depths of the ocean. His eyes fluttered once. And then twice. Sleep began to sound very appealing to the teen as he sank deeper and deeper.
A faint red glow materialized below him. The light pierced the teen’s revere, forcing him to acknowledge his body. Swimming towards the surface, the need for oxygen burned in his lungs.
Milotic lifted him up and faster out of the water, allowing for Growlithe to climb up her neck on unto her head. He broke the surface with an enormous gasp. Below him, the red light glowed bright but began to flicker.
The waves of the storm diminished, yet the wind still raged; spraying sea foam in their unshielded eyes.
A brief flash of lightning illuminated a collection of forms, taller than the waves and wider as well.
“What is it?” The teen wondered. The team didn’t have to wait long. As the Lapras rejoined each other and the teen preformed a head count, the masses drew closer and closer.
Before they could see, Will heard what they were.
“WAILOOORD,” the pokémon called out. Their deep, long, voices were easily heard, and felt, over the wind and the rain.
“Over here.” The teen shouted back, waving his arms to get their attention.
The enormous whales circled around the Lapras, forming a pseudo-protective shelter. Squeezing his eyes shut, the teen shouted out to Jirachi.
“THANK YOU.” Wrenching his eyes open, Will scanned over the pokémon around him. The Lapras were huddled together. They’d paired up and rested their heads on each other’s shells. When each of the pokémon were together, the female Lapras shouted something. He couldn’t tell what it was about but after she was done, she dove underwater. Following her descent, the teen noticed that the red light was gone. Looking up, he scanned over the Wailord as well. They were handling the storm well. All three water-types looked in on them, keeping a close eye trained on the pokémon.
‘Given the size of their bodies, this storm must feel like a gentle spring rain.’ A few more bodies crowded together in the safe space. Five or six Wailmer snuck their way in, a small flock of Wingull and Pelliper, a Chinchou, two Lanturns, five Tirtougas and a Carracosta.
‘It seems that even the pokémon that live in the sea were having trouble.’ Will felt the sudden lift before he saw anything. The female Lapras had created another ice shelf. This one was smaller either to allow space for the other pokémon or because of her own exhaustion.
Both leaders hopped on top of the shelf and rested their heads against one another.
“It’s time for you to rest as well.” Will said. Before his Growlithe could deny him, the teen pulled out the pokeball and tapped the dog with it. He dissolved in a red light.
Milotic remained in the water but she brought him closer to the shelf.
“Thank you for saving me.” He said. The Tender pokémon blushed under his gaze and turned away. A flash of lightning spooked the larger pokémon. They shifted about nervously, letting the wind and the rain buffet the pokémon protected inside.
“Will you do me a favor?” He asked.
“Sing for us. That should help calm the others.” Milotic turned and eyed him. She smiled and nodded slowly, as if bowing.
Her voice was soft and quiet, barely audible over the noisy background of rushing air and clapping seas. However her song attracted the attention of every pokémon when she hit one particularly beautiful high note.
‘She’s been singing with Mom more than I thought.’ Another pokémon, one of the Lapras, joined her. Both voices were ethereal in their delivery; as if they were trained song birds. The Lapras harmonized, allowing Milotic’s melody to soothe their ragged hearts. The tension in the moment slipped away, giving over to an easy calm. Even the Wailord added in little bits of their own voice.
Will couldn’t help, he let slip some of his own voice. A small smile and raised eyebrows let the teen know the Milotic had never heard him sing before.
‘Why did you not tell me?’ He could read in her expression.
His voice was less beautiful, given the lack of use, however, he never lost any of his timbre.
“Do Do. Doo, Doo.” He sang, lending his own voice to the water pokémon’s song.
“Will you sing for me?” He heard. It was the tiny voice again, quiet and yet plaintive. He quieted down.
“Of course.” He declared, attracting Milotic’s eye and ear.
“Milotic, I have one for you.” He said. Clearing his throat, he closed his eyes and stilled his thumping heart. Conjuring up the tune in his head, he heard several of the pokémon begin to hum the intro to his song.
‘How?’ He mused, before shaking off his curiosity.
“Eurus,” he sang. Will’s voice long and low hung in the air, accented by Wailord’s hums.
“Afer Ventus.” He continued. Milotic eyed him as well as some of the other pokémon.
“So the world goes round and round, with all you ever knew,” he twirled around on the ice, basking in the simplicity of the moment. He turned and looked to see the other pokémon were gathering around. He bent down and sang the next few words.
“They say the sky high above, is Caribbean Blue.” When he mentioned the sky, he lifted his right hand up and the little Chinchou and Tirtoga’s followed his movements. The Elder Lapras perked up and watched him intensely, but he couldn’t feel their gaze.
He waved Milotic on and she joined him, singing the melody with him.
“If every man says all he can, if every man is true,” The duo harmonized well, Will singing the words while Milotic hit the notes he couldn’t.
“Do I believe the sky above is Caribbean blue.” The other pokémon added in, singing the melody as best they could. The next part silenced them though.
“Boreas.” He sang, shifting his voice up and down the musical scale. He waved to the other pokémon and they joined in as well.
“Zephryus.” The resulting chorus, while not in tune or on pitch, still made Will’s heart soar.
While he sang the next lines of words, the other pokémon, including the Lapras pod, sang the melody. Milotic resigned to singing the harmony.
“If all you told was turned to gold, if all you dreamed was new, imagine sky above in Caribbean blue.” All of the pokémon quieted down as they listened to Will sing the last few lines. Milotic assisted him in hitting the higher notes while he sung the words. As he took one final breath, the song turned sour.
A flash of lightning crackled and ripped its way through sky and into one of the Wailord’s. The resulting electrical shock jumped from each of the huge water before discharging back into the ocean.
Knocked unconscious from the blast, the Wailords bumped together and began to shift about.
The teen froze, watching the scene play out, before he could react. The male Lapras spun around and blasted the nearest Wailord with Hydro Pump; nudging it away from the Ice shelf. However, the other two moved closer.
Diving forward, the teen ripped open his bag, exposing everything inside to the rain and threw two of his pokéballs. The resulting explosion of light blinded him; however, he still shouted orders.
“Telekinesis and Psychic. Keep the Wailord still.” He blinked until his vision recovered. Both pokémon fought the wind and the rain as they used their psychic abilities to budge the several ton bodies into place.
“Milotic,” the teen called. The serpent swam closer to the ice shelf, allowing Will to jump straight onto her back.
“I need to administer the Revives to the Wailord.” She lowered her head and crept towards the great lumbering bodies.
“Try to keep them steady.” He cried out as the nearest one barreled towards them. Milotic reacted faster and zipped back. Once the Wailord remained relatively still, they swam closer and the teen pressed the diamond shaped objected to its body. The stone glowed a light green before it was absorbed. The Float Whale pokémon regained consciousness and Baltoy let go of his Telekinesis. They continued the process. Milotic swam close enough for Will to reach over and implant the Revive and then back away. Once the final Wailord was revived, the teen looked back up to the sky. The wind and the rain were still pouring. It looked like the storm would take another hour before it blew over. A bolt of lightning streaked over the clouds, frightening everyone.
“We need to find some way to redirect the electric.” Glancing around, his eyes fell on Baltoy.
“That’s it.” After returning Artemis, the teen took Baltoy and huddled together.
“Do you think you can help me negate this lightning from now on?” He asked.
Baltoy spun around once on the ice, bobbing his head.
“Perfect. We need to move onto the Wailord. The wind will be super strong and the rain will be really heavy. Do you still wanna help?” The teen asked.
Baltoy stopped. Literally froze for a moment. He wobbled to and fro until he could stare up at Will. The trainer formed his face in a hard line, trying to convey his feeling of desperation.
“Baltoy.” The pokémon confirmed, with a long nod of his head. Both the teen and the pokémon flew up and over to Wailord.
“We’re going to help you,” he tried to explain. The wind was cruel through and he couldn’t tell if his words were lost or they reached their target.
He could see the light creeping closer and closer towards them. The rain wouldn’t last much longer, but it still looked like it might take forever. Even worse, the lightning seemed to ramp up.
One bolt streaked down from the sky, however, it was redirected towards Baltoy. The teen dropped down to a knee a moment too after.
“That was close.” He shouted to himself. Baltoy spun twice on Wailord’s back. When he stopped suddenly, a wave of mud rolled over the pokémon’s back.
“Nice thinking.” The teen leaned over to say. He fell back as another bolt struck the gold doll. Baltoy levitated a little higher, staying out of reach of both Will and the Wailord. They couldn’t have the lightning jumping to another, especially Will.
As they minutes wore on, the teen noticed Baltoy slowing down. After the first few bolts, the teen didn’t notice the change. Although as more lightning reached the ground pokémon, Baltoy slowed. He wasn’t being injured, Will constantly monitored the gold doll. If anything the creature was experiencing an abudance of energy. At one point, Baltoy lifted his hands up and used his Telekinesis to form them a small bubble of calm. It felt nice to be out of the elements.
Will idly ran a finger of his skin and could feel how raw the wind had left it.
Dropping the shield, the two could feel the storm lighten. The rain hadn’t stopped, but he could see the edge of the curtain; where rain ended and sunshine began.
It felt like an eternity, but the rain passed. The wind remained, but significantly slower. Will sighed and leaned over to pat Baltoy.
“Good Job,” he whispered. Reaching his hand over, the hairs on the back of it immediately stood up. The electricity had ended up being stored inside of Baltoy’s body instead of discharging like it should have. Placing his hand on the back of the pokémon’s head, the electricity did not pass through it him.
“Do you keep the energy inside of you?” He wondered. Will didn’t feel the hairs begin to stand up all of his body. When the hair on his head began to float, he felt something was wrong. Baltoy acted faster. Thrusting the teen over off, Baltoy flew up into the sky. A bolt of lightning had begun to form in the clouds and now it was reaching down to connect with the clay doll pokémon.
Will tumbled back and began to roll. Falling end over end, he fell off Wailord and plummeted towards the ocean surface. Several of the turtle pokémon were underneath of him still. Turning onto his back, he glanced up and watched the bolt of lightning strike Baltoy. This time, something different happened.
The brilliant flash was subdued, instead there was a brilliant glow that remained around the pokémon. It was blinding and so he turned away. The ocean floor was still thirty feet away, but it was quickly approaching. He yelled out for the pokémon to move and hoped he’d survive impact.
There was nothing to do, nothing to plan, no time for anything but to fall.
Twenty feet.
Ten feet.
Five.
Four.
Three.
Tw—
.
.
Will had closed his eyes sometime before the final foot. When he opened his eyes, he saw his own toes. Wiggling them back and forth confirmed that they were in fact his. They were about a foot, maybe even two from the water. Glancing around, he noticed the rest of the pokémon looking rather slack-jawed. Some were looking at him, others up above him.
Turning his gaze up, the glow was gone, and so was Baltoy. An enormous pale form had taken his spot.
“DOLLL.” It cried out, deep like the Wailords.
“He evolved.” Will beamed.
“THANK YOU, CLAYDOL.” He shouted up. The psychic type descended from the sky. They eyed each other, before Will wrapped his arms around the large figure.
“You’re amazing.” He whispered. The teen let go and was placed down on the back of one of the Lapras.
Milotic approached and eyed up the changed form. Claydol twirled his arms once and then twice before he cried happily. He continued to spin them, apparently liking the motion.
The Wailord began to separate and descend into the ocean, chasing after the storm. The other pokémon began to disappear as well. None of them stayed; expect the Lapras and his own.
Will resigned to a nap, along with the Lapras. Even the leaders rested their heads against each other and nodded off.
The last words he heard were a faint
“Beautiful. Will you sing it to me again?” ~*~*~*~*~*~
The sun was what had woken Will. Or maybe it was Growlithe.
No. It was definitely Growlithe. Bouncing playfully on his stomach. In the fresh air. Then, nothing.
It took Will a couple of minutes before he bolted up right.
“What the--” he began. The little fire-type, Togepi, Artemis and Marshtomp were all out of their pokéballs.
“I apologize, sir.” The telepath said.
“I told them if there were quiet that they could all play together. Baltoy- my apologies—Claydol has been harassing me to let him get the others.” At the mention of his name, his new name, the psychic pokémon spun his arms happily. Yawning, the teen nodded wearily before standing up. The air that ghosted across his sensitive skin was warm and tasted of sea salt. Pulling his Snag out, the water had gotten to it but it still worked fine.
“How far are we from the islands?” The telepath asked.
“Very close. We should be there within the hour it seems.” Will informed him. Snapping the device closed, he placed it back within his bag.
“How long was I out?” He stretched out, feeling some of his joints pop and ache
“For a few hours. We started moving at noon.” He made a move to protest but the telepath cut him off. Milotic said that it would be best if we let you sleep.”
The teen glared at the back of the shell, before relinquishing his frustration.
“I do feel much better.” “Once we reach the cove, the leader would like a word with you.” The telepath whispered lowly.
The teen could feel the weight of the words.
“Alright.” He turned and dove into the ocean. The water was warm and pleasant against his skin. Surfacing, he searched for his pokémon. Togepi was being towed. However, instead of being behind one of the Lapras, it was Claydol. The little egg shrieked with the delight as he was whisked across the water, up into the air, around the doll’s head and back down. They were utterly adorable. Also, with the cute duo, was Artemis and Growlithe. Lunatone was reclined on top of the pokémon’s head, basking in the sunlight while Growlithe was playing with Togepi and Claydol. Milotic and Marshtomp were the more difficult ones to find. They were farther ahead swimming and wrestling within the water. The ocean was crystal clear here. And the water was so bright he could see the bottom. Duskull could have been anywhere. However, Growlithe looked like he was running around a little too much to be playing just with Togepi.
“We’re almost there, which means the thugs should be popping up any minute.” He elected to climb out of the water and back onto the Lapras’s shell.
He moved over and browsed through his bag. It was nearly empty. No more Revives. His snag. his hoverboard. A collection of pokéballs. And one potion.
Plucking the Lureball out, he ran his fingers over the glossy surface.
Clicking it one, the ball grew in size. Then, he could feel the true weight of his thoughts.
“What should I do with you?” Marshtomp was the first to note the noise. He paused his fighting and swiftly approached Will’s side.
He popped up out of the water and made a noise. Will rolled over to the side.
“How are you feeling?” He asked, missing the concern in Marshtomp’s voice.
Instead of answering, the water ground type turned to look in two directions. First, was at where they were going and the second was behind them. The telepath explained.
“He says that he feels something, humming, on the surface of the water in both directions. The one behind us is getting closer, faster.” Alarmed rang in his head.
‘They’re here.’ “Quickly,” He called out to the pod.
“We’re going to be attacked. You must hurry to the safety of the coves.” He turned around and collected two pokéballs.
“Growlithe and Togepi, return. Keep everyone safe.” Pulling out his hoverboard, he left his two pokémon behind.
“Please, be safe.” He hopped on top of the board and fell up into the sky. The pod was nearly in sight of the authorities.
‘I’ll monitor them for here and hope that we can hold them back in time.’ The poachers were approaching in, fast, speedboats. They would be on his pokémon in a second. Clutching Gyarados’ pokeball, he waited.
“Hopefully, you’ve had enough rest.” The teen descended to his pokémon.
“Listen up,” he whistled. Each of his five pokémon eyed him, waiting for instructions.
“We don’t have much time. We need to slow them down at worst. I’d prefer we stop them.” The authorities will catch wind of us as soon as the Lapras move in range. The same plans as before. Whirlpools and burns. If it goes pear shaped, I plan on using this.” He held up the Lure ball. None of the pokémon objected, either because of their new ally or the lack of their charges. There was some hesitance. Hell, even Will was at using the raging Gyarados. But that was the current plan. If the pokémon lost control, the teen would return it; and he conveyed this sentiment on to the others.
“Claydol, let’s kick this off with you. Everyone else, disappear. Milotic, kick up some whirlpools for us.” The other pokémon did as they were told. Marshtomp dived into the water and burrowed into the sand. Duskull merely turned invisible. Artemis flew up into the air and hid within the direct light of the sun. Milotic took a few more minutes to hide since she had to stir up some whirlpools.
The approach of the thugs was even more unbearable then the wait for the end of the storm. However, Claydol made it all the more enjoyable. He’d spin his arms one way, then he’d go the opposite. The best was when he tried to have one arm spin forwards and the other go backwards. Both would start slowly, pick up some speed before smacking together or they would end up hitting him or spiraling out of his control and away from him. Watching Claydol chase his arms was downright hysterical to Will, however, he suppressed his laughter. The grin that came over his face was purely laughter based.
The boats didn’t even stop as they neared the whirlpools. One of them threw a pokéball and out popped a Huntail.
“Aqua Tail.” A grunt said. The dark type slapped the water with its tail. The resulting surge of water plowed through some of the vortexes but not all of them.
“Get out of our way.” The leader said, he pulled out a pokéball and threw it. He was dressed like Matt. Big open shirt, large muscles, blue bandana tied around his head. However, he did have some smarts. The pokémon that appeared was Kingdra. The next he threw was Tentacruel.
“I won’t let you harm my friends.” Will stated, throwing his arms up and out.
“Kill him.” The boss said. Kingdra opened its beak and gathered blue-purple energy around its maw. Black rings streaked out of Tentacruel’s eyes.
Claydol surprised them all. He turned the two opponents to face each other. Kingdra blasted Tentacruel with Dragon Pulse while Kingdra was hexed.
“Sweet.” Will said, raising his hand. The doll lifted its right hand and gently tapped the open palm.
Claydol tilted his head. He pulled the arm back and made one loop with it. A beam like any the two had experience fired out of the arm, like a cannon, blasting Huntail.
The hoverboard was buffeted a few feet away, however, he felt Claydol steady it for him.
“Wicked,” he grinned. Claydol cried happily swinging both arms.
“That’s it, get him.” The other boat threw their pokéballs as well. In the end, four other pokémon joined the original three: Lanturn, Floatzel, Octillery and Poliwrath. The seven pokémon formed a line along the front of the boats.
“Now, attack.” Octillery clamped down on the underside of the leader’s boat and crept to the top; positioning himself at the tip of the boat. It fired of a quick Hyper Beam. Claydol had little time to react. The best it did was partially deflect the blast with a Rapid Spin.
Before the other pokémon could attack, Will’s own entered the fray. Marshtomp clamped down on Lanturn and dragged it down to the bottom of the ocean. Milotic wrestled Huntail away from the others. Duskull blasted both Floatzel and Kindra with Night Shade. Poliwrath was whisked away as Lunatone zipped in and used Psychic to drag it away. Tentacruel was left alone Octillery to fight Claydol.
Will moved up into the sky to watch all of the battles. He held the Lure Ball tight in his hand.
Poliwrath was easy prey for Artemis. The slow pokémon, while powerful, continually barely missed the flying Rock-type. Trying to use physical attacks with a flying type was just not working and Artemis was able to get in some good shots of Psychic and Shadow Ball.
Duskull was having an issue with attacking. He could dodge relatively easy by turn invisible. However, he’d be attacked before he could do anything else. Even going underwater yielded slightly better results. Between Floatzel and Kingdra, he never had a chance to squeeze in an attack.
Claydol was also having issues. Battling two pokémon was hard on the best of days. Facing two pokémon who have a type trump against him was disasterous. Whenever one pokémon acted, Claydol would form a defense. Then, once his defense was up, the other would while he was busy defending the first attack. Both of his surface based pokémon would need held soon.
Dipping lower, the teen watched the undersea battles. Fighting other water pokémon was torturous for Marshtomp. All of his physical attacks, while fast, lacked their full speed. Milotic’s attacks however, were working splendidly. She would grapple with Huntail. The creature would get a Crunch in and get a hold of her flank. Then, she’d used Twister and begin to spin; throwing the beast off. While it was dazed, she’d use Aqua Tail or Recover. Her battle would be wrapped up nicely.
The teen moved a little higher trying to formulate a plan to best utilize his pokémon when a blow horn was used. It was a far off noise.
‘Oops.’ He mouthed, flying up. He watched the last of the pod move within the secure line and into the ring of authorities.
“They’ve reached the cove.” Will declared. Several other crafts separated from the coast guard and sped towards them. “Help is on the way.”
“Damnit.” The leader swore. Spinning around, he shouted some commands at the helmsman. Both boats swung around and began to rev their engines.
“No, you do not.” The teen declared, unhappily. His hoverboard took off faster than either of their boats could at the start. He zoomed a several yards ahead of them and tossed his pokéball.
“Let’s go, Gyarados.” The red light dissipated leaving the furious water serpent. Will felt his stomach drop. The burns were still there, black and terrible. Luckily, the ones on its belly were less significant and the drop in the water didn’t crack those open. The second topmost fin was completely burned black. Even just being released the pokémon clearly reeked of death and pus. Gyarados had obviously not been getting better within the pokeball: It had clearly stewed in its rage and pain.
He clamped a hand over his mouth, willing his empty stomach to settle.
The thugs had a less strong will. Several of them threw up, casting their vomit overboard. Octillery took several seconds to find its composure before firing off a Hyper Beam.
Gyarados dove forward, howling as the salt water ran across its wounds. However, it plowed onward across the surface of the ocean and underneath of the attack. The stench of decay grew more powerful as the beast moved. This creature was incredibly sick.
The authorities drew closer and closer, prompting a new panic in the teen. Gyarados’s condition might provoke them into arresting him too. Gripping the ball, he fought the urge to return it. The second speed boat zipped past the others. The sea serpent witnessed the flash of movement and reacted. It fired a Hyper Beam after it. Luckily, the boat steered away; but they still flipped force of the Hyper Beam hitting the water.
Turning its focus away from the second boat, the sea serpent lifted its tail to strike the first boat. Luckily, Octillery fired a quick Octozooka. Gyarados fell backwards, splashing the wound with even more salt water. The cry it made was deafening. It even fired off another Hyper Beam up into the air. The bright beam of light missed Will but he was still sent spiraling backwards. He regained control of his hoverboard and moved to check on the others.
Huntail and Poliwrath were unconscious, floating on the surface of the ocean. Marshtomp looked better than his last underwater encounter but Duskull was there to help him now. Artemis and Milotic battled the Floatzel and Kingdra while Claydol and Tentacruel fought. Something turned in Will’s stomach as he watched his friends continue to battle. They were either unaware of Gyarados’s condition or they had no chance to act on what they saw.
The first of the authorities pulled up on the scene and began to send out their own pokémon. Will zipped over to explain who he was when he had to stop. Gyarados had turned its attention to another of water craft. Another of the authorities speed boats approached and approached the serpent’s side. The teen quickly recalled the pokémon as it readied to attack.
Lanturn was the next to fall unconscious although Marshtomp was in no further condition to fight.
The teen zipped down to the first speed boat when he noticed his bag sitting within.
“I’m William Errol.” He stated to the officer, but he made no motion to stop him. Will fetched his Snag and his pokéballs. All six of them were inside still. He plucked out each of them while leaving Gyarados inside. Marshtomp was returned while a third craft pulled up alongside the downed pokémon.
“Is there anything we can do to help?” The man said. Will didn’t look over at him, just watched as his pokémon banded together.
“Are the Lapras safe?” He asked. Artemis approached Claydol and together the two finished off Tentacruel. Duskull and Milotic used the original fire and water technique they used to catch Gyarados with. That finished off Kingdra. The last pokémon was Floatzel. Before any harm could be done, the teen dashed forwards on his hoverboard. He stepped infront of all of his pokémon.
“Enough.” He demanded.
They all paused. He went to the thug that had thrown the pokeball and returned the water type.
Then, he returned each of his own. Octillery had been returned to its pokeball by the authorities and the other man paddled in the ocean as they waited for a larger craft to come and pick them up. The other five pokémon were placed in the two speed boats.
“Is there anything else you need of me?” Will asked the authorities. They took his name and number before they delievered a message.
“The Lapras pod and its leaders would like to have a word with you before you go.” ~*~*~*~*~*~
The cove was a quaint place for the Lapras. It was large and open spaced, allowing for them to move about freely without feeling the watchful eye of the authorities.
He had to present some identification at the outer ring of boats that acted as a checkpoint. Once inside, he was escorted by a guard to the pod. The four Lapras Elders were together on the beach. The Elder Lapras was resting while the other three looked as if they were animatedly discussing something.
Upon his approach, the guard took all of his possessions. After Will passed on his pokémon and bag, he was allowed to continue.
“Our leaders would like to say ‘Thank You’ for getting us here.” The younger telepath spoke.
Will nodded solemnly.
“Has something happened?” The telepath asked. The leaders eyed him but did not look as concerned as the youngest of the group.
“When we were fleeing from the Gyarados, I used a technique that I knew would maximize the pokémon’s pain.” The Lapras exchanged looks between each other, even the Elder telepath peaked up.
“When I saw the result of my actions, I decided to capture the pokémon so as it ease its pain. I’d thought that time within the pokeball would allow it regain some of its health and heal without the salt water. I used Gyarados to stop the poachers from chasing after you. The burns were not healing. They’ve been festering.” Will felt the lump in his throat rise as he visualized Gyarados.
“The burns look like they’ve become infected, oozing a brown-yellow pus. The stench seemed to have filled the pokeball because when I released it, the smell easily overtook our senses.”
He turned away and looked down at the white sand beneath his feet.
“It was my wish that pokémon need not suffer and here I am causing pain and misery for them.” “Then, your wish has become forlorn.” The elder telepath was very clear, lucid even. Will wanted to snap at him, but quelled the urge.
“It is your mission to protect pokémon.” The younger telepath
communicated.
“And you have succeeded wonderfully in transporting us from the Johto region to the Orange Islands. There will be more pokémon that will need you, and your pokémon. And while you may not want to, other pokémon will get in your way and obstruct your mission. There will be battles. Even wild pokémon battle each other. We in the pod battle as well. However, the part you should most concern yourself is with afterwards. You have demonstrated that you are a guardian to pokémon, no matter the nature. Instead of leaving Gyarados to agony and most likely death, you rescued it.”
Will heard the words but he couldn’t take them to heart, for it was full of concern and ache for Gyarados. He turned and looked out to sea, incapable of accepting the warm praises of the elders.
Nudging him in the back, Will turned to see that it was not the Lapras he was expecting.
The purple Lapras had waddled over to him and prodded him with her horn.
“The Leaders are the ones that said it; I merely acted as the mouth piece.” The younger telepath confessed. The teen wrapped his arms around the Lapras’ neck and quietly cried into the side of her head. The salty tears ran down his face and fell to the beach. No one spoke and no one moved as he released his pent up emotions.
“Thank you,” he muttered quietly, trying to hold back a sob.
“Jirachi would not have reached out to just anyone. You have a truly pure heart and we have all seen it.” The elder telepath admitted.
Pulling away, Will brushed the water from his face.
“The leaders have decided that are eternally welcome with our pod. If there is anything you need, call upon us.” He nodded slowly, still trying to reign in his emotions.
“Take some time and relax here. See if someone on the island can assist you with your injured pokémon. And while you are here, let us extend some advice.” The younger telepath said, leaning in a spell closer.
“There is an ancient water pokémon that lives on the island. He is an incredibly powerful psychic master. Search for him when you are ready. I’m sure he can tell you where Jirachi is hidden.” Will nodded and gave them each a hug. He whispered, “Thank you” to each of them. Waving goodbye, he left with the guard to return to the outer check point. While they moved, the teen pulled out his snag and began to type a message.
"Sub. I must admit that I’ve broken more than a few rules involving this mission. The Lapras were injured and beaten as we crossed the sea over to the Orange Islands. Second, I took extra pokémon along with me and even when I knew I shouldn’t, I captured another. We were battered and bruised as we passed through a storm, crossing into Orange waters. I’m not looking for an excuse, merely informing you of the truth of the matter. I apologize for the problems this may cause you. The Lapras have arrived safely.
I would also like to ask another favor of you. I know this must be getting tedious, but would it be alright if I remained a while longer on the island. The pokémon I captured while on the mission, A Gyarados, was severely injured and I would like to see to its recovery. I owe it that much. The following information should be standard protocol. Mission Complete
Pokémon Used: Duskull, Lunatone, Marshtomp, Milotic, Baltoy, Growlithe and Gyarados. Togepi came as well but he did not participate in any battles.
Items Used: A Lure Ball, Four Potions and Three Revives
Current Rank: Tier 3, Alpha Snagger
Missions Completed: Embodiments of the Moon, Pain in the Grass, so I heard you like Mudkips, Do ya dig it and three Tier Advancements. Closing his snag, the message was sent and he pulled out his Hoverboard. They arrived at the outer checkpoint and he left; hopping on his board. The guards pointed him in the direction of the main island’s pokémon center. As he flew, the teen thought was what he should tell his parents. Claydol was rather obvious as was the hatching of his egg. But what about this new pokémon? Would he even be allowed to keep it? Why should he keep it? The Gyarados was in so much pain, how could it possibly forgive him?
Reaching into his bag, he pulled out the Lure ball and idly ran his thumb over it.
“I promised,” he whispered.
