Plate

Part 4: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003847355

You can find the rest from there.

There’s been some issues with uploading this these things, I think the chapters are getting too big. I’m gonna give you all a link to Google Docs, where the entire thing including two more chapters is, in the comments. I’ll be going on my summer break and won’t be writing at all. I hope you all enjoy, and feel free to comment with suggestions going forward!

Our heroes finally gather at the Spear Pillar!

What is this mysterious Plate Prophecy?

Read to find out!

——— Sinnoh ———

Dawn yawned and stretched, noting her surroundings. Wow, I must have fell asleep. In the Spear Pillar, of all places? I must’ve been real wiped. Piplup stirred next to her, and she grinned. “Morning, sleepyhead.”

She looked up at the sky. “Good afternoon, more like it. Yikes. No more late nights for me!”

She looked to the sky again as movement caught her eye.

What is that? She wondered, as the objects came nearer. There seemed to be four of them. As they got closer, she could make out some more details. A few of them seemed strangely familiar.

She rushed for the entrance of the Spear Piller as the first of the figures touched down.

“Mewtwo!” She called and rushed up to the Legendary Pokémon, embracing her despite her better judgement.

Have… we met?

She let go and stepped back in alarm. “You’re not Mewtwo!”

I believe you’re looking for me.

She turned as Mewtwo, the real one this time, touched down beside her. She went in for a hug. Doesn’t mean I want any hugs, though.

Dawn stepped back, pouting. “And here I was, happy to see you.”

“Piplup!” Mewtwo turned to Piplup, crouching and patting him on the head.

I’m happy to see you too, Dawn. And you, little Piplup.

“So, what’s with the copycat?” She asked, pointing a thumb at the other Mewtwo.

Technically, she’s the copycat. I’m the original.

We’re both copies, so does “which of us came first” matter?

Yes. In any case, there’s two of us, the Other Mewtwo finished.

“Can you believe those two met just a few hours ago?” Asked a familiar voice behind her. A green-haired man was climbing off a tall black Pokémon.

“N!” Dawn cried, rushing over and hugging him.

“It’s good to see you again! Oh, and you too, Zekrom,” she laughed as she reached up and pet the Pokémon of Ideals. It smiled, as did N.

“It’s good to see you too, Dawn. I didn’t realize you and Mewtwo were acquainted. Oh! Before I forget! I met a certain Zorua awhile back. He was happy to learn you were a pal. He wanted me to send you his regards, and to tell you him and Meema are doing alright.”

Dawn beamed, remembering the scrappy little Zorua and his fierce Meema she had befriended oh so long ago. That was before she had even met N!

“I’m glad to know they’re okay! If you see them again, tell em I’m doing alright as well!”

It seems you get around, Mewtwo remarked.

Dawn chuckled, even as she heard a rustle of wings as the final arriver touched down. The spiky-haired youth thanked his Pokémon mount was he hopped off, returning the large bird to its pokéball.

“Who are you?” She asked him. He grinned.

“The name’s Ash. Ash Ketchum, from Pallet Town in Kanto!

“My name is Dawn. Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too.”

I believe we’re here for a purpose? The male Mewtwo asked.

“Oh yeah!” Ash said, reaching into his bag. He pulled out a number of objects- 3 to be precise- and held them up. All three shone brightly.

“Zekrom said these are called the Plates of Arceus. They led us here. Do you know anything about that?

Dawn nodded. “I have one as well, in the Spear Pillar over there. Unless I’ve missed my guess, these and the other plates are all being drawn to it. Do yours have words on them?

Ash nodded, showing her the Psychic and Dark plates, each with their own inscription.

“There’s supposed to be 18, right?” He asked her.

“Yep. One for each Pokémon Type. I have the Legend Plate, equivalent to the Normal type. These are the Electric, Dark, and Psychic Plates, obviously. Which means there are 14 more out there. If we wait, perhaps the others will arrive and we’ll all get some more answers.”

—————————

One by one, the others arrived.

First, was a girl named May from Hoenn, on the back of a large Legendary Pokémon called Rayquaza, holding the Flying, Ground, and Water Plates. Rayquaza and Zekrom seemed to know one another, and greeted each other warmly.

Second was a group of kids from Kalos, accompanied by the Legendary Pokémon Xerneas, Yveltal, and Zygarde. What happened then was… interesting to say the least.

As Rei disembarked from the back of his Talonflame, who was relieved to be free of the burden, he looked around at the somewhat familiar sight of the Temple of Origin.

What was left of it.

He had known that, technically, centuries had passed since he had been here. But seeing what was once such a proud, stable building, it jarred him that the columns had all collapsed, the statues of Ancient Hisui’s Lords and Nobles all completely gone. Yveltal alighted behind him.

You, human, have experienced what few, if any, mortals alive have seen. You once saw this ancient temple in all its glory, and now it is simply ruin. In a few more centuries, it will be dust. This, human, is why me and Xerneas minimize our human contact. Humans and their creations are temporary. WE persist against the ravages of Time. WE will live to see the entire planet become like this Temple, a mere fragment of itself before the pieces finally crumble away and us, with it. It is our burden, and keeping our distance from humans is how we manage to bear that responsibility without going mad. Sometimes I think I’ve gone mad anyway…

Rei could not find the words to encourage the bird. For the first time, Yveltal seemed like something other than the fierce and terrifying Pokémon of Death.

He seemed old. And, knowing what he did, Rei felt he understood, at least somewhat. Until now, he had taken for granted what had really happened to him when Arceus sent him back to Ancient Hisui. And all of a sudden, he missed his old friends that much more. Laventon. Adaman.

“Akari?” He asked aloud, as the girl appeared out of the ruins of the Temple of Origin. Before he could stop himself, he rushed up, embracing the girl.

“Uh… I’m sorry, I think you have me confused with someone else?”

She said. Rei let go, backing away quickly. This girl looked just like her. Spoke like her. And yet, she was not.

“Oh. Oh man, I’m sorry, so, so sorry. It’s just, I knew this girl, but she’s gone now, and you look just like her-“

She smiled. “It’s okay. I’m sorry to hear you lost your friend, though. My name’s Dawn. What’s your name?”

“Rei. It’s Rei.”

—————————

As the rest of his friends arrived, Rei introduced Dawn to his friends and their accompanying Legendary Pokémon, and revealed the Grass Plate. To her surprise, he already knew all about the Plates and Arceus, whereas the others thus far had learned from their Legendary Pokémon companions. Upon further conversation, she was astounded to learn that he, too, had met Arceus, as well as Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina, and the other Legendary and Mythical Pokémon of Sinnoh. Unlike her, however, he had never been to the Distortion World.

As they were swapping stories, Zacian and Zamazenta were bowing and scraping to the canine Zygarde, much to the confusion of their companions, to whom they explained they revered Zygarde as a hero figure. While this was happening, a girl named Lillie from the Alola region arrived, with the Fire Plate.

The next arrivals were a huge surprise for Dawn.

Cynthia appeared over the rise, bearing the Fighting plate.

Regigigas appeared, too, clutching the Rock plate in its fists.

Kyurem also appeared, flying in over the horizon from the Unova region, with the Ice Plate. When Kyurem and Zekrom saw one another, they would have begun attacking one another of it weren’t for Rayquaza, who had experience in these things. Regigigas also kept watch over the two, and Yveltal threatened to Oblivion Wing anyone who started a fight in the Sacred Temple of Arceus. That kept them quiet.

Last of all to arrive were the Lake Spirits, bearing the Fairy Plate.

—————————

“Alright, everyone who has a plate, set it down here in the center!” Dawn called, placing the Legend plate in the middle of the floor in the Spear Pillar. Ash stepped up and placed his plates, as Rei added his. And so on and so forth until what of the floor wasn’t covered in human and Pokémon feet was covered with plate. Dawn and Rei, the experts on Plates, began to count.

“I got 15. What about you, Dawn?”

“Also 15. Which ones are missing?”

The Bug, Poison, and Dragon Plates, chimed in Uxie, Lake Spirit of Knowledge.

Here comes the Dragon Plate, now.

A pair of portals opened, and out stepped Dialga and Palkia, who were greeted warmly by Dawn and Rei and returned the greeting in kind. Palkia held the Dragon Plate.

“Where’s-“

Dawn was cut off as the floor underneath the Plates shimmered and disappeared. Before the Plates could fall, however, they were caught by Palkia’s powers, and out of the hole in the floor came Giratina, shifting from its Origin form to its legged one. He greeted Dawn and Rei kindly before being slapped by Palkia, to Yveltal’s outrage.

What was that for?! Giratina demanded.

You almost dumped the Plates into the Distortion World! They would have been lost!

Well, you caught them!

Dialga sighed as Yveltal let out a piercing cry.

Whether or not I can Oblivion Wing you, I’m sure Regigigas, Zygarde, and Rayquaza here would love to give you two a thrashing on my behalf!

The three nodded, and Palkia and Giratina backed away from one another.

Now, it’s just two. Palkia, do your thing and find the Bug and Poison plates so we can figure out what in the world is going on!

Palkia grumbled something before seemingly staring off into space, which Dawn and Rei figured was probably accurate. After a few moments, he stuck his hand out and it disappeared, only to reappear moments later with both plates.

“Hey, wait a minute!” Ash cried out. “Isn’t that cheating? Where’s the people that were supposed to bring them?”

They missed their summons. If that is the case, then they are not what Arceus needs. The time is now, Dialga responded.

The Plates gleamed, a veritable rainbow of color, as Palkia assembled them into a circle in the center of the Temple floor. Once assembled, they began to move of their own accord, spinning in a slow circle as a shape- which Dawn and Rei recognized as Arceus’ ring- appeared in the center.

A Voice began speaking, a Voice that they felt as much as heard. And even those who did not know Arceus instinctively knew that they were hearing him.

Heroes summoned at Plate’s command,

Joined together they make their stand.

For Freedom and Justice they will Fight,

Turning back the Darkness with Light.

With their Hearts of Steel and their Strength of Mind,

The Flame of Hope they shall find.

The Water stirs, the Land crumbles,

The Sky rumbles and Nature trembles.

Legends rise and Legends fall,

Heroes must unite, to save all!

Everyone was silent as the voice went silent, and the Plates fell to the ground, one by one. Then, everyone began speaking at once, trying to interpret what they could from it.

Silence! Yveltal cried, and was heeded.

Stop squabbling around like a bunch of chicks! There’s an easy solution.

The bird turned to the Lake Spirits.

I know nothing more than yourself, Great Bird, Uxie told him.

Yveltal turned to Dialga, who did not respond.

You’re the Lord of Time. Surely you know?

I do not.

Yeah, right. I don’t think this is really the time-

SILENCE, IMPUDENT WHELP!

Dialga seemed to tower over the Pokémon of Death.

You may be old, but you forget that I am far older! I will not tolerate your ignorant behavior! Zygarde, control your charge!

The Protector of the Ecosystem growled at Dialga.

Regardless, I’ve had enough of his attitude, Dialga said, before turning away from Yveltal.

Whatever you think this “isn’t the time for”, Yveltal, I assure you I am quite serious. I can see nothing. A few days ago, my reach suddenly became far more limited. I have been looking for the cause, but I cannot find it. There are two explanations for this. One, I somehow die entirely, which I have reason to doubt. The second, Arceus himself has restricted me. Why, I do not know. I even have half a mind to think something’s wrong, or else he’d have been here by now. Palkia, have you seen him lately?

Palkia shook his head.

I’ve been looking since we gathered here. He is hidden from me, and hidden well. I daresay you’re right. How far ahead can you see?

We’re reaching the limit even as we speak. In fact-

Both Pokémon of Time and Space whirled around as, suddenly, a large portal opened, and out stepped- Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina?

The two pairs of Pokémon saw each other.

The newcomers charged up their attacks.

The originals did the same.

“Secure the Plates!” Rei yelled. Or was it Dawn?

The Legendary Pokémon stood between their human companions and the new conflict.

The attacks fired.

Zygarde sprang forward, rushing for the Plates.

“Squishy!” Bonnie cried, restrained from following by Clemont and Xerneas.

The attacks collided.

A resounding BOOM echoed, and suddenly the two pairs of ancient Pokémon disappeared, and in their place was a black, steadily growing mass- a black hole. Everyone felt the sudden pull as the Plates were sucked in, Zygarde behind them. “SQUISHY!” Bonnie yelled, shaking loose from Clemont and Xerneas and running forward only to be overwhelmed by the pull, screaming.

“Bonnie!” Clemont shouted.

Zacian darted forward, picking up the girl by the scruff of the neck and digging her paws into the stone, fighting against the pull. Zamazenta darted forward, grabbing onto her tail, and Xerneas did the same, Cynthia, Clemont, N, Ash, Dawn, and Rei helping. While their attention was diverted, Pikachu and Piplup slid forward, almost getting sucked in but saved in the nick of time by one of the Mewtwos, the other using its psychic powers to help pull the humans away from the advancing black hole.

It was a losing battle.

The black hole gained more size and strength by the second. It began to tear the very ruins of the Spear Pillar apart. Yveltal was unable to fly away fast enough, and was sucked in. Rayquaza, the faster flier, attempted to save him but was pulled in also, as were the Lake Spirits. A chunk of rock struck the Mewtwo that had saved Pikachu and Piplup on the head, and all three tumbled in. The black hole grew with each victim it claimed. Bonnie was ripped out of Zacian’s jaws by the increasing pull, and Zacian, Zamazenta, and the others in the chain fell suit. The black hole grew massively, sucking in the survivors as they attempted to flee, along with the entirety of the Spear Pillar.

Having run out of victims, the black hole disappeared. All that remained of the Spear Pillar, and the people on it, was a hole in the top of Mt. Coronet.

##############################

Rei tumbled through the Black Hole.

##############################

Rei was overwhelmed. Was this what death felt like?

##############################

There were so many things. Colors, sounds, smells.

##############################

Rei’s vision cleared.

Just for a moment.

He saw a face. Closed, tear streaked eyes looking up at him from the item it seemed to be making.

He felt he knew that face. But he was so overwhelmed, his brain could hardly form a coherent thought.

The face disappeared.

And Rei saw no more.

Pingigigas:

@StabbyBoss13

@PeacockFeatheredRaccoon

@ShadowKitsune85

Part 3: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003845619

Part 2: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003844083

Part 1: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003843958

A longer chapter that I actually had to split in two. The next part will be posted later today. Our heroes answer the summons!

—— Kanto ——

The Legendary Pokémon awoke from his slumber. He looked around the cave that was his home, wondering what it was that had disturbed him. There were no humans about, that much was clear, and the local Pokémon had learned not to disturb him. He stretched, feeling the blood flow through his system. It was second nature to sleep in the position he did, namely, floating in the air with his legs bent and arms crossed, but it didn’t do to stay in the position for too long.

Wondering how long he’d slept, the Legendary Pokémon began to wander, passing by the denizens of the cave who gave him a wide berth. He floated silently through the air, not really paying attention to his surroundings but heading for the general direction of the cave’s exit. Once he got there, he found a surprising quantity of small Pokémon- Rattata, Pidgey, and the like- seemingly gathering around a spot just outside the cave.

As he approached, the critters scattered, and he lowered himself to the ground to inspect the object that had attracted such attention. It was unlike any object he had seen before. The object had 6- no, 5?

I must have been sleeping too long. It’s clearly only 5. And yet… The Legendary Pokémon had the distinct feeling that it was SUPPOSED to be six, like he had seen for a moment what SHOULD have been there, rather than what was. He looked at the symbol at the top, against the largest edge of the object.

That’s the humans’ symbol for Psychic Pokémon. Half of it. This is only half of… whatever it is. Where’s the rest?

He looked around and could find no clue as to the whereabouts of the other object. Wherever it was, it wasn’t here.

He looked at the strange symbols, obviously some form of text, that covered the bottom half of the object. Equally obviously, only half of the text was there.

This is strange. Very strange…

“I think it was up here somewhere, Pikachu!”

The Legendary Pokémon whipped around toward the sound of the voice. A human?! I should have sensed them before they got anywhere near here! I need to-

Too late. The human in question came into view with a familiar yellow Pokémon on his heels before stopping in his tracks as he saw the Legendary Pokémon. Come to think of it, the human was familiar, too…

“Woah. What kind of Pokémon is that?”

The Legendary Pokémon’s eyes widened.

He knew that voice.

He knew this human.

“Hey… it looks kinda familiar, dontcha think? And why’s it staring at us?”

“Pika-pi…”

The Legendary Pokémon shook his head, gathering his wits.

Why are you staring at me? He asked the human telepathically.

The boy’s eyes widened, as he stepped back in surprise.

“It can talk?!”

The Legendary Pokémon reflected that that was practically the same response as-

No. It never happened. There was no “last time.”

“What?”

With a jolt of alarm, he realized he said that aloud.Nothing. Forget that. What are you doing here?

The boy took a moment to focus, obviously getting over the “talking to a rare Pokémon” thing. He reached into his bag, pulling out an object.

“This thing fell out of the sky in front of us last night.” He held it up for the Legendary’s inspection. “We thought we saw another one land somewhere around here.”

The Legendary held up his own object. It was a perfect match- almost. The purple one, held by the Legendary, only covered half of the human’s yellow one, which was adorned with the Electric-Type symbol.

“They match. But where’s the rest of yours?”

I am uncertain.

Suddenly, a sheen seemed to cover the object for a moment, before fading. The Legendary Pokémon felt a gentle tug as the object began to pull at his hands. He drifted along in the direction it wanted to go, for a moment, before looking at the bewildered human.

I have no clue what these objects are, and it seems you don’t, either. But it seems this one wants to go someplace.

As he turned away, continuing in the direction the object indicated, the human called out.

“Hey, where are you going?”

Where ever it wants to take me. I have need for some entertainment.

“I want to go, too! It could be related to the one I have, too!”

Absolutely not. You need to go away.

“I’m coming, and that’s that! Right, Pikachu?”

“Pikaaa!”

You cannot fly.

He grinned. “That’s what you think! Pidgeot, I choose you!”

He hurled a pokeball into the air, and a large bird Pokémon appeared with a cry. The human beckoned, and it landed so he could climb on its back. “Lead the way!”

With a sigh, the Legendary Pokémon realized he would never get rid of this human, short of erasing his memories. He was tempted to do so, before a small, guilty voice in his head reminded him he had done that once already with this particular human.

Very well. But you’ll have to keep up!

“You’re on!”

As the Legendary Pokémon rose into the air, followed by the young human on his Pidgeot, Pikachu on his shoulder, the human called out over the wind.

“Oh, by the way! My name is Ash! What’s yours?”

I am known as Mewtwo.

———

I am lazy. I decided to retcon Ethan, making Ash the Johto protag as well as Kanto. I do plan to have May solo the Hoenn stuff… but I know nothing about her, and next to nothing on Hoenn, period. I would actually be thrilled if people could help me out, maybe by writing that part themselves! Somehow, some way, May needs to find Rayquaza, Groudon, and Kyogre, who have the Flying, Ground, and Water plates respectively, and contain the respective portions of the “Plate Prophecy” shown next chapter.

I’m thinking Dawn may also take over as the Unova protag rather than whoever the flip it’s supposed to be, but considering I never had a real plan to involve the B/W/B2/W2 protag it doesn’t make much difference, except for her relations with the other Unova characters.

Ash: Kanto and Johto

May: Hoenn

Dawn: Sinnoh and Unova

Rei: Kalos and Hisui (Ancient Sinnoh)

Lillie: Alola

Gloria: Galar

Speaking of the other Unova characters…

——— Unova ———

The Legendary Pokémon awoke from her slumber. She looked around the cave that was her home, wondering what it was that had disturbed her. There were no humans about, that much was clear, and the local Pokémon allowed her to sleep in peace, when she needed it. She stretched, feeling the blood flow through her system. It was second nature to sleep in the position she did, namely, floating in the air with her legs bent and arms crossed, but it didn’t do to stay in the position for too long.

Wondering how long she’d slept, the Legendary Pokémon began to wander, passing by the denizens of the cave who greeted her kindly. Nodding at them, she floated silently through the air, not really paying attention to her surroundings but heading for the general direction of the cave’s exit. Once she got there, she found a surprising quantity of small Pokémon- rattata, pidgey, and the like- seemingly gathering around a spot just outside the cave.

As she approached, the critters gave her room, and she lowered herself to the ground to inspect the object that had attracted such attention. It was unlike any object she had seen before. The object had 6- no, 5?

I must have been sleeping too long. It’s clearly only 5. And yet… The Legendary Pokémon had the distinct feeling that it was SUPPOSED to be six, like she had seen for a moment what SHOULD have been there, rather than what was. She looked at the symbol at the top, against the largest edge of the object.

That’s the humans’ symbol for Psychic Pokémon. Half of it. This is only half of… whatever it is. Where’s the rest?

She looked around and could find no clue as to the whereabouts of the other object. Wherever it was, it wasn’t here.

She looked at the strange symbols, obviously some form of text, that covered the bottom half of the object. Equally obviously, only half of the text was there.

This is strange. Very strange…

She decided to take it. Flying off, she headed for the forest she knew that friendly Zoroark frequented. Perhaps he would know something about it.

——— One fly later ———

The Legendary Pokémon touched down in front of the Zoroark’s home, after checking to make sure no humans- no real humans- were around. She disliked humans far less than she used to, but still could not understand why this particular Zoroark had taken it upon himself to take their shape and live among them. But-

The door opened, and a man with messy green hair appeared on the other side of it, grinning when he recognized the Legendary Pokémon.

“Mewtwo! Long time no see! Come in, come in! It’s good to see you.”

He shut and locked the door behind her as she entered, also making sure to close the blinds. Mewtwo would have been worried by this if, 1, it was any other man, which it wasn’t, and 2, she wasn’t capable of blasting this house apart with ease, which she was.

Hello, N. It is good to see you, as well… I hope I have not come at a bad time.

N had said before that her manners needed some work, and hoped she had phrased that properly.

N grinned, seemingly pleased by her words, which relieved her. “On the contrary! I can always make time for my favorite Legendary Pokémon! Err… favorite Psychic legendary Pokémon. Don’t tell Zekrom.”

Mewtwo smiled. She had not known him long, but they had met often and understood one another well. She considered him the closest thing to a friend she ever had.

“I hope you don’t mind if I make myself comfortable, do you?”

Mewtwo shook her head. Not at all.

She watched with interest as a sudden *poof!* of cloud obscured his form- wait, did that cloud have the word “poof!” In it?- and when the cloud cleared, the man was gone, and in his place stood a smiling Zoroark.

“Ah, that feels good.” He said, stretching his now much more slender features. “Don’t get me wrong, I love being human, but it’s always nice when I get the chance to be myself- claws, snout, this lovely mane of fur-

Ah, I’m rambling. So!” N the Zoroark hopped on a chair as Mewtwo tried and failed to make herself comfortable on one of the couches, to N’s amusement.

“While you’re here, I was wondering if you could help me with something.”

That’s funny. I was coming here to ask YOU for help.

N looked intrigued. “Well, you’re the guest, so you go first. What’s up?”

Mewtwo held up the mysterious object that had fallen outside her cave, explaining how she had found it.

“Wait a sec…” N hopped up and walked over to a table, before picking up a black object and bringing it back for Mewtwo to see. He held it up against her object. It lined up perfectly. Mewtwo’s object, however, only covered half of N’s, confirming her suspicion that she held only half of whatever her object was. N proceeded to explain how his had fallen from the sky right in front of him some hours ago.

Well, yours is the completed product. Or should I say, a different one. Yours is black, mine’s purple. Is that the Dark-type symbol?

N grinned, exposing his canine fangs. It was a somewhat more menacing look in his Zoroark’s form, if Mewtwo had to be honest with herself.

“Yeah, it is. I’d know it anywhere, naturally. And look at this-“

He indicated the words scrawled in glowing white across the bottom. Unlike the ones on hers, these were legible.

“Turning back the Darkness with Light…” that’s… it?

“I know, that’s what I was thinking! But now that I’ve seen yours, I’m sure it’s part of some bigger text. Zekrom told me these are called Plates, related to a being called Arceus. I’m guessing they’re all part of it.“

He was interrupted by a knock at the door, changing his appearance to that of human once more out of reflex. He looked at Mewtwo, worried.

“You go hide in the kitchen. I’ll go see what they want.”

Mewtwo took his advice, ducking around the corner, listening to the sound of N opening the door. He greeted whoever was there, then appeared in the kitchen.

“You’re gonna want to see this.” He said, gesturing for her to follow him.

After a moments hesitation, she did so, following him to the door. She saw a young boy with spiky black hair… and behind him-

What in the world?! She exclaimed, as the Pokémon that looked just like her asked the very same thing.

—————————

Ash was bewildered as the man stepped back to reveal a Pokémon that looked just like Mewtwo. He of course had never seen a Mewtwo before, but for some reason he couldn’t explain, he didn’t think there was more than one of them. And from Mewtwo’s reaction, HE didn’t think there were others of his kind, either. Suddenly, without warning, Mewtwo glared at the man and raised a hand, the man clutching at his neck as he rose into the air under the Pokémon’s apparently Psychic powers.

It appears I’ll have to teach you the same lesson I taught Team Rocket!

“Mewtwo! Stop! What are you doing?!” Ash yelled.

Ending something I thought I ended long ago-

Mewtwo was suddenly launched backwards, the man landing to the ground, gasping, as the Pokémon was blasted by an attack from the other Mewtwo.

Stop this, Ash heard her- the voice was feminine- say.

N is not one of the bad humans. He is a friend.

The man- N- rose to his feet and chuckled. “I didn’t know you cared, Mewtwo.”

Mewtwo also rose to his feet, and began floating towards the other one, before coming to a halt just inches in front of her. He squinted, and Ash had the feeling the two were now in communication with one another- speaking, possibly, at a rate as fast as thought itself. The two stood facing each other for a few minutes, before Mewtwo- the male one- backed away slightly. He looked at N.

It appears I was… hasty in my judgements. He glared at his counterpart, as if challenging her to say more. She shrugged, and so did N, realizing as Ash did that this was as close to an apology as N was going to get from him.

Now, that that’s over with, it appears we have all gathered here for a similar reason. And you, my counterpart, have something I have been seeking.

He brushed past N and the other Mewtwo- the former muttering “Sure, come in, why not,” under his breath as Ash followed the others behind him.

When they were all inside, Mewtwo pointed at a nearby table and telekinetically lifted two objects from it. One was a black version of the weirdly shaped object Ash had shown Mewtwo before. The other was an exact replica of the one Mewtwo had.

Ash.

Ash nodded, bringing the two objects he had stored in his backpack out. When he dragged out the half-object, it flew from his hands and joined to the one Mewtwo now held, sealing together with a flash of purple light. The completed Psychic symbol at the top lit up, and the lines of text flashed, and suddenly changed into legible words.

“‘The power of mind…’ well… that’s helpful. About as useful as the one on mine,” N said, gesturing to the words on the Dark object. Ash read the brief inscription.

“Do you think there’s more of it?” He asked. N nodded.

“Just before you came here, I was telling Mewtwo that these are called Plates. The Plates of Arceus, to be exact.”

Who is this Arceus? Mewtwo asked.

“I’ll answer that once you tell me who YOU are.” N retorted.

“Oh, my name is Ash, I’m from Pallet town in Kanto!” Ash said.

N looked at him. “Thanks. My name’s N, as you already know. I was really more concerned with your friend there. I thought there was only one Mewtwo.”

As did I, both Mewtwos said simultaneously.

The one from Kanto turned to N. My counterpart tells me you already know of her origins. Mine are similar, only I was closer to the Team Rocket base of operations in Kanto, rather than some Unova satellite lab. It appears they predicted something going wrong with me and created this one- he gestured to the other Mewtwo- as a backup.

N nodded in understanding even as Ash shook his head in confusion.

“Team Rocket? Labs? Backup? What are you ON about, Mewtwo?”

Mewtwo appeared to sigh. I was afraid of this. He approached Ash and laid a hand on Ash’s forehead, closing his eyes for a moment.

Ash felt a sudden rush overcome him as he passed out.

—————————

“What did you do to them?! N’s voice.

Calm down. I was simply lifting a memory block that I had placed on them before. Mewtwo’s voice.

A memory block?

The other Mewtwo.

Yes. After I destroyed the lab I was created in, I ended up doing some… regrettable things. Things involving Ash. To Ash, even. It was simpler to lift the memory block I placed on him and Pikachu at the time and deal with the consequences of my actions rather than explain it all to him. He’s survived worse than sensory overload, trust me. He’s coming to now.

Ash groaned. The new Mewtwo knelt beside him, Pikachu cradled in her arms.

Ash groaned again. He looked at Mewtwo, and remembered. The island, the challenge, the clones.

“I remember now… how could I have forgotten all that?”

As I was telling these two, I altered your mind to make you forget what transpired that day. You woke up in the Pokémon center on the mainland with all the others involved, and all thought you passed out in some sort of freak Sleep Powder-based accident. I did not think I would ever need to restore your memories… but you and Pikachu are the only ones I made a removable block for, rather than erase the memories entirely. I suppose I did that because I knew, at some point, I would want you to remember again. So I could… apologize.

Mewtwo looked away, and Ash had the distinct feeling he was embarrassed about it. What I did that day was wrong. What nearly happened to you was wrong. I have lived my entire life following that incident living in shame. But I could never bring myself to approach you, to restore that memory. I told myself I was saving you from unnecessary trauma in this way, but I know the truth. I was afraid.

He looked back at Ash, who was surprised to see tears glistening at the corner of the Pokémon’s eyes.

You helped me realize the error of my ways, Ash. You were stronger than me in so many ways I never realized. And I nearly killed you!

He suddenly rushed Ash, picking him up and embracing him in a fierce squeeze, tears streaming down his face.

Please, Ash, forgive me. I thought I could make the regret go away by ignoring the problem, but it only made it worse, so much worse. I need you to forgive me. I’m begging you, forgive-

“I forgive you.”

Me- huh?

Ash returned Mewtwo’s embrace. “I know you never really meant to hurt me, Mewtwo. You were angry with the evil people who created you. You were confused, questioning who you were all the time. Nobody should have to live like that, and I’m sorry that it happened to you. And besides, it was kinda dumb of me to get in the way of your fight with Mew. You’re forgiven.”

Mewtwo squeezed Ash a little harder. You’re too kind, Ash. If more humans were like you… perhaps-

“I don’t know what kinda mushy feelings-fest is going on here, but I’ve only been getting half the conversation. Can we wrap this up?” N interjected.

“Pika-pi!” Ash turned as Mewtwo suddenly released him and picked up Pikachu from the other Mewtwo’s arms. “You need to forgive him too, Pikachu.”

“Pika-Pika-pi!”

Pikachu glared at Mewtwo, who was apparently salvaging what he could of his reputation by wiping the tears from his face and crossing his arms, trying to look nonchalant.

I suppose I deserve it, Ash. Pikachu cares for you quite a lot. It can’t be easy for him to forgive me. You should be honored to have such a fine friend.

Ash simply nodded in agreement, chuckling to himself as it seemed Mewtwo was back to his usual, dour self. A sudden motion caught the corner of his eye as the mysterious objects began to slowly rise from the table and start floating towards the door. He looked at the Mewtwos, who both shook their heads.

When ours did this, it led us to you, the Kantonian Mewtwo said to the others. Perhaps, now, they’ll lead us to the rest.

N yawned. “Tie em down for now. I haven’t slept in ages, and I don’t think Ash has, either. We’ll follow them in the morning.”

——— Kalos ———

“C’mon, Clemont! It went this way!” Rei yelled back at his friend.

“Yeah, come on big brother! How can you be so slow all the time?” Asked Bonnie.

“You’re not the one carrying this pack around, Bonnie! Aw, geez, why did I have to suggest following it? We should be asleep right now!”

“I’m not tired at all! I think you’re just a whiner.”

“Hey-“

Rei interrupted the bickering siblings as they entered a wide clearing. “That must be it!” He exclaimed, pointing to an object that lay in the center.

The three rushed toward it and examined the mysterious object. Rei gasped in surprise. He looked at Clemont and Bonnie, who were busy trying to figure out what it was. As Clemont reached for it, Rei knocked his hands away.

“Careful, Clemont! Do you have any idea what this is?”

Clemont glared at Rei, nursing his stinging hand. “That’s what I was trying to figure out!”

Rei looked at the hurt look on his friend’s face- and the hurt hand- and chuckled. “Sorry, Clemont. I got a little more excited than I meant to.”

“Some way to show excitement,” Bonnie muttered, as Rei gingerly picked up the object, noting the Grass symbol at its top, and clutched it to his chest.

“We need to be very careful with this. It’s extremely important. The question is, though, why is it here?”

That’s something I’d like to know, as well.

The trio whirled around, trying to figure out where the voice came from.

Or better yet…

They all shrieked, and Rei nearly dropped the plate, as a large, familiar red-and-black Pokémon dropped from the sky to land in front of them, glaring down at them.

Why are YOU here? Demanded Yveltal, Pokémon of Death.

“I-It can speak?!” Clemont asked, pulling Bonnie behind him.

Yveltal glared at him. I’m not even going to dignify that with a response. He turned to Rei. I asked you a question, why are you here?

When Rei didn’t answer, Yveltal took notice of the object held to his chest. His eyes narrowed. Hand over the Plate, Human.

Rei clutched the Plate tighter, glaring at the Reaper Pokémon. “Over my dead body, then! Like I’d trust YOU with a Plate of Arceus!”

That seemed to surprise Yveltal. How do you know that name?

Rei realized that he may have made a mistake. “Uh- well-“

Yveltal came closer, looming over him. Answer the question, boy.

Yveltal, be nice. You’re scaring the humans.

All four whirled around as a tall, deer-like Pokémon with multi-colored antlers entered the clearing.

You never let me have any fun, Xerneas. Humans deserve some terror. Besides-

You’ve already terrorized these humans once, Yveltal.

Did I?

Yveltal looked over the bewildered group, seeming to reassess them.

Now that you mention it, they do seem familiar. I tend to get groggy when I first wake up from my slumber.

And cranky. You Oblivion Wing’ed half a dozen people.

They deserve it for waking-

Suddenly, a black-and-green canine walked into the clearing, standing next to Xerneas. Bonnie shrieked with joy, interrupting the two Legendary Pokémons’ exchange. “Squishy!” She exclaimed, running over and wrapping her arms around the canine. “It’s so good to see you!”

Xerneas shuffled away from her companion in surprise. Squishy? That is not a proper form of address for the Protector! Get away from-

She was cut off by a low growl from the canine, which Bonnie tried to replicate.

Xerneas, perplexed, bowed down to the smaller Pokémon.

I- I understand. Forgive me, Bonnie. I had not known you and Zygarde were acquainted.

Rei glanced over at Yveltal, who seemed stunned into silence. “Speaking of the ‘waking up Yveltal’ incident, I thought you died”, he said, turning back to Xerneas.

Yveltal seemed to laugh. Xerneas? Die? It takes a bit more than curing a few Oblivion Wings for her to even temporarily die. As for permanently, well, even I couldn’t achieve that. My guess is, she simply went to sleep, going off on that “beginning new life” tangent she’s used for centuries.

Rei looked over at Xerneas, who somehow looked guilty.

“Why would she lie about that?” Asked Clemont.

Me, Xerneas, and Zygarde- the one you call “Squishy”- are among the oldest beings in the world. Between our longevity and our jobs, we agreed millennia ago not to make attachments, not that I have ever needed them. It seems Zygarde, however, has forgotten that.

Squishy growled at Yveltal, who only laughed. Bonnie, arms still wrapped around him, tried once again to mimic it.

The great and mighty Zygarde, a pet! “Squishy,” indeed!

Squishy shook off Bonnie, before leaping forward, jaws opened wide to attack the giant bird.

Zygarde, stop this!

Squishy stopped in his tracks at Xerneas’ reprimand, but still growled at Yveltal.

Clemont, in a move that was either brave or foolish, stood between the two. “Xerneas is right, there’s no need to for this. I’m happy to see you again, Squishy, and you, Xerneas. And while I can’t say I’m glad to see Yveltal again, I’m sure we’re not all here for pleasure. Rei?”

Rei nodded. “Clemont’s right. Why do you want the plate, Yveltal?”

Arceus has not graced our region with his presence for a very long time, Xerneas answered. When we sensed his power, we made our way here. How do YOU know of the Plate, though?

Before Rei could answer, Squishy let out a series of barks and growls, obviously communicating with Xerneas and Yveltal.

Oh. OH. That’s… interesting. Xerneas looked Rei up and down. I cannot believe I didn’t see it before. You are a very remarkable human, Rei.

Yveltal snorted. Lucky, more like. Arceus could’ve-

He was once again interrupted by a growl from Squishy.

I’m getting tired of you cutting me off, Zygarde.

Rei turned to the canine. “You know about… me going to Hisui?”

Xerneas and Yveltal looked at one another, then Rei, even as Squishy nodded.

Hisui?! Arceus not only graced you with his presence and sought your help, he sent you back in time?! That far?! Xerneas exclaimed.

Sweet Arceus, Xerneas, he’s THAT kid! HE’S the one who stopped Giratina all those centuries ago!

Rei was unnerved by the sudden attention he was getting from the two Legendary Pokémon. “Heh heh, yeah, that’s me! No biggie.”

“No biggie”?! Human, that is the very definition of a biggie!

Rei snorted at Xerneas’ choice of words.

“You went back in time?” Bonnie asked. “I thought time travel was impossible! Brother told me it’s one of the only things he can’t invent!”

As always, humans lack imagination, Yveltal retorted.

Not only is time travel possible, there are at least three Pokémon I know of capable of it, Arceus chief among them. In fact, I have been meaning to investigate some rumors that people in some distant region are getting their hands dirty in time travel.

“That still doesn’t explain things!” Clemont said. “Rei, is what they’re saying true?”

Rei sighed. “Sit down guys. I got a lot to tell ya.”

——— “A lot to tell ya” later ———

“And then, Arceus sent me back to the present, and I realized no time at all had passed! I was glad to be back with everyone again, but I do kinda miss all the friends I made back there, including my Pokémon… So!” Rei clapped his hands together as he concluded his tale. “Any questions?”

Clemont and Bonnie were wide eyed. Xerneas and Squishy had laid down on the grass to listen to the story, and Yveltal… was asleep.

Clemont began to speak.

Damn the questions! It’s already morning! In case you haven’t noticed, the Plate’s almost out of the clearing. So Yveltal apparently wasn’t asleep. Wait. What? Everyone turned in the direction indicated with a flap of Yveltal’s wing. The plate, while Rei had been talking, was sliding slowly along the ground.He rushed to grab it and secure it.

It’s heading in the direction of Sinnoh. I recommend you humans get some sleep. If it’s a summons from Arceus, then I imagine he’ll want his favorite human along. Zygarde, too. I hope you’ve got some flying Pokémon, because I am not carrying you all there myself.

——— Alola ———

Tbh I’d just rather Alola wasn’t involved at all but I can’t just skip over it and I DEFINITELY can’t leave Galar out of this story like I did with Paldea. However, like Hoenn, I don’t know it well enough to make something interesting. Suggestions or even requests to write this part for me are welcome. Lillie, friends with Nebby, needs to obtain the Flame Plate, containing a portion of the prophecy revealed in the next chapter.

——— Over the Ocean, Between Galar and Sinnoh ———

“You know, we never really got an explanation about the whole ‘Stealing Eternatus’ thing? How could you have claim to have had nothing to do with it, then say you did it? And why does that picture look like-“

I see an Island. Zamazenta said, cutting Gloria off.

Let’s land there, set up camp to rest for a while, and we can explain.

————

Once the camp was set up on the island, Gloria prepared some food for them and their other Pokémon.

“So. We gonna get that explanation, or what?” She asked.

Zacian huffed. It is impossible to fool our noses. And yet… the smell was ours. Different, somehow, but still ours. But, we also were sure to check where we knew we were during the time the crime was committed. We traced our tracks going back days. We never got close to the facility housing Eternatus, and never went anyplace we couldn’t remember having gone. And yet, in that vault and just outside of it, our scent. It was us, one hundred percent. And yet, it’s physically impossible.

“Well, that’s just helpful,” Hop remarked. “Now, what about-“

Yes. That. Zamazenta said.

As I’m sure you’re remembering, the only time my eyes have done anything like that was when those humans with the weird hair infused me with Galar Particles. Not an experience I wish to recall more than I must. But I do recall it. My mind was foggy, and I felt tremendous pain. All I wanted was to lash out at the world around me, with no regard for who or what I hurt. The leftover Galar Particles we scented not only suggested I was in this state once again, but so was Zacian. Of course, neither of us still currently reek of Galar Particles, another mystery. Was concerns me the most was the clear amount of thought that went into that robbery. It was clean. Efficient. I certainly couldn’t have pulled it off last I was influenced by Galar Particles.

Gloria put her hands on her head. “Let me get this straight. You don’t remember going there, have no gaps in your memory, have smelled yourselves being everywhere else, yet the vault reeks of your own scents. There’s also reason to suggest you were under the influence of Galar particles, but that, unlike the vault, don’t have lingering particles on you and couldn’t possibly have done it if you had?”

Both Wolves nodded.

You understand our dilemma. Hopefully, this summons from Arceus will provide answers, Zacian said. We still are heading in the right direction, correct?

Gloria nodded.

Good. Let us rest and continue traveling later. I suspect we are close to our destination.

Pingardes:

@StabbyBoss13

@PeacockFeatheredRaccoon

@ShadowKitsune85

Part 2: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003844083

Part 1: https://pokemon.fandom.com/f/p/4400000000003843958

Part three, now we’re going places! Tad short, but the next one is probably gonna be long, depending how I decide to get everyone where they need to go.

“What is it?” Hop asked.

“Heck if I know! Some alien thingamabob?” Retorted Gloria.

Both were bent over the mysterious object that had fallen from the sky to land in front of them. After a hesitating moment, Gloria bent down and picked it up.

“Uff, it’s heavier than it looks! Look at the size of this thing!”

The strange object was only a couple inches thick, but it was long, with a metallic sheen. It was shaped somewhat like an elongated hexagon, with 6 flat edges of varying sizes. The smallest edge was flanked by the two longest edges which angled outwards, before two more angled back in towards the final edge.

“Look here, Hop. There’s a symbol. I think that’s the symbol for Steel types, isn’t it?”

As Hop nodded in agreement, Zacian approached and sniffed the mysterious object. She recoiled in suprise and looked at Zamazenta, nodding. Gloria watched the exchange. “You know something, you two. Spit it out!”

Zacian seemed to collect her wits before speaking.

This… this is one of the Plates of Arceus.

“What’s an Ars-ee-iss?” Gloria asked. “You mention them from time to time, like, ‘what in the name of Arceus’, or ‘oh, for Arceus’ sake’. But you’ve never said anything ABOUT the guy-“

“Actually, they have Gloria. Which you’d remember if you actually payed attention when they told us about their history with Eternatus.”

Gloria opened her mouth to object, but Hop continued on.

“You said he was the one who gave you your Sword and Shield and tasked you with defeating Eternatus.”

Zamazenta nodded. Correct. But there’s more to it than that. You see, Arceus is the creator of us all. He created this world, the first Pokémon, the first Humans. He even created me and Zacian… and Eternatus. This plate, and others like it, are parts of Arceus himself. This must be the Iron plate.

“Hold on. You’re telling me I’m holding a piece of a god?”

Not A god, Gloria, THE God, Zacian corrected. Humans all have different religions, but most don’t recognize who the true Creator of this world is. And that is Arceus. I don’t know why this plate is here, but I can assure you it’s here for a reason.

“Well, you both share the Steel type, right?”

In Crowned form, yes.

“Hey! There’s writing on the back!” Hop said.

Gloria turned the plate around and read the inscription. “‘With hearts of Steel and wills of Iron’… that’s it. Where’s the rest?” Even as she asked, the plate seemed to… pull at her. “Woah, what’s going on? It’s pulling me!” She balanced herself to counter the gentle tug. “It seems to want to go… that way!” Gloria said, pointing.

“That’s the direction it came from, I’m sure of it” Hop said.

It’s a summons. Arceus wishes for us to take the plate back to its origin. I imagine he will be waiting for us there. Zacian stated.

“Well what are we waiting for? Let’s grab the- wait, where’s the sword and shield?” Hop asked.

Zamazenta snorted. Now you notice. The police took them. You two head back home and gather what you need, supplies and Pokémon. This will be a long trip, and we don’t know what dangers may face us on the way. Strange things are happening in the world this night. Be ready to leave at haste.

——— ten minutes later ———

Gloria had succeeded in packing a backpack full of supplies, the plate tucked inside along with a sleeping bag, her satchel of pokeballs, and containers of human and Pokémon food, when she heard sirens in the distance. Running outside, bag in hand, she saw Zacian and Zamazenta, both now in Crowned form, running at full speed ahead of several police vehicles.

As she watched, she saw a bright red light envelop Zamazenta as he shot into the sky, a hollering Hop on his back. Realizing what needed done, as Zacian approached, she began running along side the path, away from their pursuers, as Zacian caught up and ran along side her. Grabbing Zacian’s fur, she hoisted herself up onto the wolf’s back, and not a moment too soon. A blue light covered them as Zacian began to ascend rapidly… and right through the branches of some trees that all but knocked her clear of her precarious seat. Zacian interrupted the following string of Galarian Sailor profanity, for which Galar is famous, with an apology as the sounds of sirens faded into the distance behind them.

——— In the Sinnoh Region ———

Dawn sighed in relief as she and Piplup finally made it up to the top of the mountain, not for the first time wishing she could fly. After a small rest, she looked at the ruins of the Spear Pillar, the place of the final confrontation against Cyrus. She had not been back since. Entering the ruins, Piplup at her side, she looked around. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. She went deeper into the ruins, continuing to search for anything out of the ordinary.

“Piplup-pi!”

Piplup ran forward, gesturing madly to something that lay on the ground up ahead. Dawn shuddered as she recalled Giratina appearing from the very spot, before dragging Cyrus into the Distortion World. Approaching slowly, Dawn looked down and gasped as she recognized the object. “It’s one of Arceus’ plates! What’s it doing here? Where’s Arceus?” She tenderly picked up the plate and realized there was writing on it, underneath the unmistakable image of the ring that circled Arceus’ torso.

“‘Legends rise and legends fall. Together, heros must unite to save all.’ Well, I won’t give it any points for prose, but it sounds serious. It must be some sort of warning. Something bad is going to happen soon, Piplup. I just know it.”

Ping-plups:

@StabbyBoss13

@PeacockFeatheredRaccoon

i dont like it

this gardevoir is male and nothing you do will make me change his gender

The Team Sunset Grunts all readied their Pokeballs. A man with a girl Zane's age is in front of them.

Zane readies his Pokeball.

Team Sunset Grunt: Get out, this guys ours.

Zane releases Pikachu.

The Grunt releases a Salazzle.

The Articuno uses the move Hail. The sky glows an icy blue. Snow begins falling. The Articuno glows blue.

Zane: It must be it's hidden ability, Ice Boost, raising every stat in snow.

Grunt: Use Flame Burst.

A ball of fire is thrown at the Articuno, it explodes, releasing extreme flames onto the Articuno.

The Articuno uses Blizzard, freezing the Salazzle's tail.

Grunt: Use Fire Blast.

The flames hit Articuno directly. It blows the Salazzle away with Hurricane. It faints.

More Pokemon come out of Pokeballs. The man in front brings out a Magmar, and the girl a Ninetales, Fire/Fairy type. Fire types, Rock types, etc. are released. The members all shout their commands.

"Flamethrower."

"Thunderbolt."

"Stone Edge."

"Flash Cannon."

The attacks all come at Articuno. It fires a powerful Hurricane. There's a wind blown through the field. The attacks are blown back. Hitting the Pokemon who fired them, knocking some out.

Zane: If I catch it, I can release it somewhere else. Pikachu, Aerial Ace and Spark.

Pikachu charges, covered in Sparks. It hits Articuno, paralyzing it.

Grunt: Get out of here. I'll take care of you myself. Emboar, use Fire Punch on the Pikachu.

Zane: Use Aerial Ace.

Pikachu flies past the fist into the Emboar's face with a critical hit. It stumbles.

Zane: Finish it with Quick Attack.

Pikachu quickly hits Emboar with a speedy 55 damage. It faints.

Grunt: You twerp. I'll get another Pokemon. Just stop meddling.

More attacks are fired.

"Fire Blast."

"Thunder."

"Rock Slide."

"Steel Beam."

The Articuno uses a Hurricane-powered Blizzard. It blows away the Fire Blast and Steel Beam, freezing the Pokemon, but the Thunder and Rock Slide hit from above, causing the Articuno to fall.

Multiple Pokeballs fly. They all hit, but only one captures it. The one from the man in front. A Great Ball. It shakes once, twice, thrice, and then the Articuno escapes.

It uses Roost. By landing it gains health, but is temporarily not Flying.

It flies again, but this time, someone next to Zane brings out a keystone. Zane sees that he has a Charizard. The Charizard has an orange stone. Both stones glow, resonating energy.

Grunt: Mega Evolve.

The Charizard is covered in an orange sphere. The Sphere glows, then shatters, releasing a large Mega Charizard Y. It's wings larger, tail sharper, and bigger.

Grunt: Use Flamethrower.

A humongous stream of flames blow into Articuno. Articuno counters with Ice Beam. The beam pushes back and hits the Charizard.

Grunt: Use Fire Blast.

The hot flame is avoided and the Freeze Pokemon uses Freeze-Dry, rapidly dropping Charizard's temperature.

Grunt: Use Dragon Claw.

The Articuno uses Wing Attack. Being a Legendary, it has a base amount of 6 moves available. The Wing knocks the Charizard away. It faints.

Then Articuno flies into the forest. Team Sunset follows. Zane follows them. But he notices that the girl goes a different way.

It has gotten dark, and the forest isn't helping. Zane has Pikachu use Flash while they are both riding Venusaur, who had to use Cut on the trees in their way.

Then a blue flash flies by. Articuno hovers above them.

Zane: Pikachu, Electro Ball.

Articuno dodges.

Zane: Venusaur, Bullet Seed. Pikachu, Aerial Ace and Spark.

The seeds make Articuno flinch, and Pikachu hits it. It then uses Hurricane. Pikachu has to hold on to Venusaur's plant to stay on, while Venusaur is digging his claws into the ground. The wind stops.

Articuno flies away. Zane only saw it for 15 seconds.

As they go, they here rustling, like a person was lost. He doesn't see them, but he hears a Pokemon. He goes into that direction, but he doesn't see anyone. He continues.

They then saw a car with the Sunset symbol. They see it on a path. They go to the path and follow. It leads into a cave.

As they're walking, they see a fork. On one side, they see snow. On the other side, they hear people. Even though Zane was still curious about Team Sunset, he went to where it is snowing. He meets a very surprising surprise.

Jake is there, with his Monferno.

Zane: What are you doing here?

Jake: Same as you. Looking for Articuno.

Zane: Well, I think it is down that path.

Jake: It is. I know.

Zane: I see you have two Badges as well.

Jake looks at the Pokeballs on Zane's belt.

Jake: And you now have 4 Pokemon.

They walk together, they're Pokemon trailing, they can see with Pikachu's light.

They hear a voice. It sounds like a Man. He is telling his Flareon to use Flamethrower.

They turn the corner and see him. He looked like the person in font when they were fighting Articuno, but Zane hadn't seen that he had a sunset symbol on his back. It had a tag that says Admin James. In front of him is a Flareon. And the Articuno.

James: Use Smog.

The Flareon spews poisonous gas with 35 damage. Articuno is paralyzed, and too slow to dodge.

James: Now, Fire Fang.

The Flareon bites the Articuno with flaming fangs.

Then, Jake brings out his Pidgeotto.

Jake: Use Twister.

The tornado blows away the Flareon. James turns around. Articuno flies farther down.

James: Who are you? Wait, you, the black kid. You fit the description Adam gave me. I see you beat him. Well, why don't you help me? I'll give you a city in the New World.

Zane: What?

James: You see, Team Sunset has seen Pokemon be mistreated. We are catching the Pokemon required for a new world to be made for them. Anyone who joins us will follow us there. But we need all the Legendary Pokemon. I think. You will not stop me. By the way, this world will be destroyed. So you better join us.

Jake: Never. I plan on saving Articuno.

Zane: I do, too.

Jake: Umbreon.

Zane: Starmie.

James: So pushy. Fine then, Skuntank and Magmar.

Jake: Use Snarl on Skuntank.

Zane: Use Scald on Magmar.

Both Attacks hit. The Magmar is hit super-effectively.

James: Magmar, Smog on Umbreon. Skuntank, X-Scissor.

The Smog poisons Umbreon. But then Synchronize activates, poisoning Magmar. Skuntank uses a Super-effective X-Scissor on Starmie.

Zane: Use Psywave.

Jake: Use Screech.

Both attacks hit both Targets, The Screech lowering the opponents' Special Defence and Defence Sharply, allowing Psywave to be stronger on Magmar, unfortunately, it doesn't affect the Skuntank, being Dark type.

James: Skuntank, use Venoshock on Umbreon. Magmar, use Flame Burst.

The hot poison is even stronger due to how Umbreon is poisoned.

Magmar uses a weak Flame Burst on Starmie.

Zane: Starmie, use Rapid Spin, deflect from Magmar and hit Skuntank.

Jake: Hang in there, Umbreon, use Moonlight.

Glowing pink, Umbreon heals some health, but because they're in a cave, it's not very much.

Starmie knocks out Magmar, and hits Skuntank.

Jake: Now, use Quick Attack.

Zane: Use Swift.

The stars jab into Skuntank, and then Umbreon hits it head on. Skuntank faints.

Starmie to level 31, Venusaur to level 34. Double Edge for Take Down. Pikachu to level 28. Breloom to level 27. Force Palm for Leech Seed.

Zane: You lost. Now leave.

James: Beaten by kids. I'll keep going. I don't care.

Just then, a Blizzard freezes him in place. Articuno flies in. It then drops a Keystone. And a Mega Stone. Venusaurite.

Zane: How did it get this?

Then it dropped a Fist plate in front of Jake.

Jake: For Monferno.

Then it left and flew away. It stopped snowing.

They walked to the end of the cave. They saw a girl in their path. The girl next to Sunset Admin James.

Girl: I challenge you to a one-on-one Pokemon battle.

Zane: Who?

Girl: You. I'm Jessie, and you beat my boss. I plan to defeat you.

Zane: I accept. Go, Venusaur.

Jessie: Go, Whimsicott.

Zane: Are you sure?

Jessie: Yes.

Zane: Sludge.

Jessie: Light Screen. Then Gust.

The wall of light blocks the Special move. Then the wind blows into Venusaur.

Zane: Use Double Edge.

With extreme force, Venusaur launches Whimiscott.

Zane: Now, use Sludge.

The poison is 4x effective, but Whimsicott stands tall.

Jessie: Use Endeavor.

With the Ghost type move, Whimsicott looks into Venusaur's eyes and lowers its health to Whimsicott's, which Venusaur had lowered.

Zane: Smart. Now I can't afford recoil. Use Giga Drain.

Despite not being very effective, the Miracle Sees boosts the Attack. It gives back Venusaur's health.

Jessie: Now, Energy Ball.

Zane: Bullet Seed.

The seeds make contact with the ball of concentrated solar energy. There's an explosion.

Zane: Now, use Double Edge.

With Venusaur having regained health, it does damage, but takes the recoil. Whimsicott faints.

Jessie: I lost.

Zane: Yes, you did.

Jessie: Fine, but I have one request. Take me with you.

Zane: What?

Jessie: I joined Team Sunset because they recruited me. I know a lot about Pokemon, and I was recruited. I didn't want to say no because they said that when they accomplished their mission, they would have this world destroyed. I wanted to catch Articuno myself and make the head of Team Sunset proud, but I'm not strong enough. But if you can beat me and my boss, then I think it's better to follow you instead.

Zane and Jake looked at each other.

Both: I guess.

Later....

They are in Voltage City. This city houses the Electric Gym.

Zane: I'll wait. I want to train.

Jake and Jessie walk out of the entrance. Jake comes back.

Jake: Isn't it suspicious that she wants to follow us?

Zane: Yes, very sus, but we couldn't really say no.

Jake: I just hope she actually quit that organization.

Zane: I think so.

Jake: Well, see you at the Gym.

Zane goes to Route 12.

He takes his Keystone. He'd got a necklace and had Venusaur wear it with his Mega Stone.

Zane closes his eyes. Venusaur does too. Zane rubs his finger across the stone.

Then the stones both glow. Venusaur roars. A green sphere surrounds him. It expands, and then shatters.

A Mega Venusaur is there. With a large plant on his back, leaves on his side, and a pink flower on his head. He is much bigger, and his legs had thickened, his claws sharpened.

Zane's Venusaur had just Mega Evolved.

The Journey Continues....