Post by Ghost on Sept 8, 2008 14:50:01 GMT -5
Chapter 26: The Lighting of the Beacon
Latios, Latias, and the pair of Deoxys were flying through space towards the Pokemon Planet. The four were conversing about their adventures and legend surrounding their existences. Latios and Latias were pleased to no longer travel alone, while the Deoxys were just happy to finally have some friendly company. Together, the small group of legends was twirling past comets, seemingly in a race. The planet in the distance was drawing closer and closer.
Latias: “Well, we’re almost there. You two have been so kind to travel with us, why don’t you stay, and help us warn the others down there.”
Deoxys: “As much as we wish to continue a journey with you, our new friends, we made up our minds a long time ago to never help that dragon. We don’t plan on budging from that stand, which is why we denied joining that council.”
Latios: “Yeah, I do barely remember someone mentioning you at the council’s last meeting.”
Deoxys: “Yes, we were sent an invitation by a human from the planet. He was some form of astronaut. The human gave us an invitation to join, but upon reading the list of other active members, we noticed Rayquaza. That was all it took. We decided not to give any inclination of our denial and just quietly abandon the whole idea.”
Latias: “That’s so sad. I’m sorry that you feel the need to avoid us just because of one other pokemon.”
Latios: “Latias, let them be. They have their reasons, and we shouldn’t be annoying them with questions about their judgement.”
Latias wanted to press the matter further, but decided to fly on silently. Both Deoxys kept looking over at their new friends as all four flew on as fast as possible. They knew what Latias said was true, but their stubbornness overtook their will to be friendly. Closer and closer the atmosphere of the planet came. The party began to slow down, and came to a complete stop right outside of the atmosphere of the Pokemon Planet. They looked down at the planet to see something they hadn’t expected. The sky was black, through the small openings in the soot, they could count no less than three volcanoes billowing smoke into the sky. Both Latias and Latios were confused by the sight and began to look around the sky for anything else. It was then that they saw them. Below them, yet high in the sky were Rayquaza, and the purple dragon Fox had warned them about, Ridley. The two were in a fierce battle. Tails, claws, and energy were flying everywhere; however, it was Ridley who seemed to have the upper hand. He was smaller and slightly faster. Also, Rayquaza seemed to be tiring out. The battle must have been going on for quite some time.
Latios: “We’ve gotta go help him.”
Latios began to zoom towards the fighting duo but paused when he noticed his partner was not doing the same. He turned around to see Latias facing the pair of Deoxys. She inched closer to them as she began to speak.
Latias: “Please, won’t you two come help us. You held off Rayquaza before, and this foe is more powerful than him from the looks of it. We can’t do this alone.”
Deoxys: “Rayquaza can rot for all we care. We’re not going to aid such a heartless beast.”
Latias: “He’s not that way, I promise you. Please, we need you. At least do it for us.”
Latios: “Come on, Latias. They’re obviously not going to help us, they’re too busy watching out for themselves and holding on to a stupid grudge to see the suffering going on down there. Having the nerve to talk about heartless beasts, you two should look at your own selves. Let’s get out of here, now!”
Latias lowered her head and she and Latios turned around and sped to aid Rayquaza. Both Deoxys floated motionless; a look of irritation shown on both their faces. With their company now gone, they were now able to go about their business, but for some reason they couldn’t. Instead, they floated there, watching. Whether it was to watch Rayquaza’s struggle, or something else, they did not know. Latios and Latias meanwhile were speeding through the atmosphere like two comets crashing to the land below. As they increased their speed towards Ridley, both small dragons turned themselves invisible once again.
Ridley and Rayquaza were still thrashing and clawing each other. Rayquaza was showing signs of exhaustion as his movements became slower, but his breathing increased. Ridley, on the other hand, seemed fully energized as if he had been stationary during the entire battle. Rayquaza sent a dragon pulse straight into Ridley’s chest. The impact moved Ridley a few feet, but as he was sent backwards he whipped his tail across Rayquaza’s face. His sharp tail struck one of Rayquaza’s eyes. As reared his head and roared in pain as a small drop of blood came from his injured eye. When Rayquaza opened them once more, Ridley was immediately in front of him; his mouth open wide and charging an attack of dark energy. The attack was planned to be devastating but suddenly Ridley’s head jerked as if struck from the back of the head. The energy ball was sent flying straight above him. Rayquaza backed away, to witness Ridley’s body once again jerk madly as if being struck from the back. Ridley shook his head and began to look around for the cause of his pain, when suddenly he was simultaneously hit in the stomach and the side of the face. Ridley was now getting angry as he heard laughter around him. Rayquaza recognized the laughter immediately.
Rayquaza: “Latios, Latias! I’m glad you have come to help me, but why are you here? What’s happened to Mewtwo and the others?”
As soon as they were addressed both pokemon lowered their invisibility and faced Ridley head on.
Latios: “Someone attacked them, so they sent us to warn you all, but it looks like we’re a little too late.”
Rayquaza: “No matter, I have held him off for a decent amount of time. Only the volcanoes have erupted, and nothing else to my attention.”
Ridley roared into the air as he charged towards his opponents. Latios and Latias flew out of the way, but Rayquaza was too slow. Ridley caught the dragon’s throat in his mouth, and began to bite down. Quickly, Latias began to glow a pink color as she used her psychic energy to fly towards Ridley in a full Zen Headbutt. Latios however gathered a ball of light into his mouth and shot a Luster Purge straight at Ridley’s face. The luster purge hit ridley in between the eyes. As he roared into the sky, his noise was shortened by the impact of Latias at Ridley’s Ribs. Ridley began to fly away from the large dragon to distance himself from the attacks. As Latios and Latias checked on Rayquaza, Ridley began to laugh a prehistoric, menacing laugh. The trio looked at him as he began to glow a dark aura around him. The power he was generating was immense as his eyes glowed a deeper color of red.
Latias: “Guys, I think it’s gonna take a lot more than that to get rid of this thing.”
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Meanwhile on the ground of Kanto, Meowth, Blaziken, and Absol were beginning to climb the mountain towards the Council’s meeting place. The initial trek up the mountain was difficult as it was a rocky area full of ledges and tall drops. Once one reached to top large ledge, there was a pleasant, easy pathway up the incline straight to the council. Wild pokemon took refuge at the top portion of this mountain as few trainers ever dared climb the lower rocks. Blue was the only known pokemon trainer to have ever persued the top portion. Blaziken and Absol, who were in very good physical shape, were running full speed, jumping off rocks, and twirling to the top of ledges. Meowth, on the other hand, was lagging behind a short distance.
Meowth: “Guys, I know we’re in a hurry, but could you wait just a freaking second?! I’m about to collapse.”
Blaziken: “Perhaps if you hadn’t eaten so many doughnuts, your fat self would be able to keep up.”
Meowth: “That’s a low blow there, bird brain. I can’t just jump up to the top of these stupid ledges; I have to actually take my time to climb up them.”
Absol: “Aren’t cat’s supposed to be superb climbers?”
Meowth: “Why you dirty little…”
As Meowth’s irritation level rose, the adrenaline in his body began pumping harder. Within seconds he had caught up to Absol and Blaziken at the top of a large ledge. He stood at the edge eyeing both pokemon angrily.
Blaziken: “Now see, that wasn’t hard at all, was it?”
Meowth: “I have the right mind to kick you right in the...hey; we’re already at the pathway? How did? You all had this planned didn’t you!”
Absol and Blaziken smiled at each other and walked on up the pathway. Meowth grimaced as he followed them. As the three made their way up the pathway, they saw several wild pokemon including swablu, spearow, rattata, and a large variety of bug types. Still pressing onward, they could see the top pillars protruding from the top of the mountain. Their goal was right before them, but suddenly they heard a strange noise nearby. All around them they could hear small popping noises as if something was appearing and disappearing. The trio looked around and sure enough, to the left of them picking berries off a bush, was an abra. Meowth and Absol did not think anything of it as the mysterious noise was solved. Blaziken, on the other hand, stood and stared at the lonely abra. He was squinting as he held the end of his beak in one hand. Meowth and Absol had just noticed their traveling partner was not with them when Blaziken began to creep slowly towards the abra.
Meowth: “What are you doing?”
Absol: “We don’t have time for this!”
Blaziken: “Shut it, I don’t want him to teleport away.”
Meowth and Absol stood completely silent while absolutely confused at what was happening. Blaziken continued to inch his way towards the abra. Suddenly, the fire bird leaped into the air and landed on the immediate other side of the bush. The abra was starteled by this as he screamed and scattered berries everywhere. His body began to sparkle from the teleport he was starting to do, but his new company caught his eye instead. Blaziken was standing before him, eyes closed with his hands crossed over his chest, clenching both sholders. Still keeping his head down and eyes closed, he slowly extended both arms and clenched his fingers with hit thumbs still protruding from his hands. Brining both thumbs together to touch at the ends, he opened his eyes and looked down at the abra, who was staring wide eyed at him.
Abra: “You know of it?”
Blaziken: “Of course I do.”
Abra: “How did you know I was in?”
Blaziken: “That’s easy, it’s the x shaped scar they place on your body…barely visible but to psychics and those with extremely keen eyesight.”
Abra: “Ah, I see, but that still doesn’t explain how you know about us.”
Blaziken: “I don’t really have time for all that, but if you must know, I was part of the Magma Aqua campaign. I also trained your first medicham in fighting combat.”
Abra: “Woah, so you’re that Blaziken? Amazing! How can I be of service?”
Blaziken: “I need to speak with him.”
Abra: “Does it have anything to do with that bunch at the top of this mountain? I’m sure you know how he feels about them.”
Blaziken: “Yes it does, but it more importantly has to do with that over there.”
Blaziken pointed towards the darkened area of the sky. Abra began to glow with his psychic powers as he used his ability to see that great distance.
Abra: “Woah, this looks like bad news. Rayquaza is having that much trouble with this one thing?”
Blaziken: “Exactly, Now do you see why we need your help?”
Abra: “Tell the big shot to do it. I’m sure that’s what the boss will say.”
Blaziken: “He’s not even on this planet. He went with several others to try to fight other things like that purple dragon out there. Either something has happened to them, or this one just slipped out of their sight. Either way we are the ones who have to deal with him, not Mewtwo.”
Meowth: “When you two ladies are done discussing fasion, would you mind telling me what the hell is going on?”
Blaziken: “Later, Meowth. Abra, can you please teleport me to him? We need you all.”
Abra: “It’s the least I can do for a hero such as yourself.”
Blaziken: “Excellent! Meowth, Absol, you two head on up and flip that switch. We’ll return shortly with help, hopefully.”
Absol: “I don’t know what you’re doing but take care of yourself in the meantime.”
Abra used his powers to float on top of Blaziken’s shoulder. As soon as he landed, both pokemon’s bodies began to sparkle and in an instant, had vanished from the spot. Meowth stood looking at the scene still confused before finally running on up the path with Absol. They ran at top speed till they had reached the open doorway of the Council. Just as Absol had described earlier, the place was desolate, and only a few rattata remained. Meowth kicked at them as he passed through in search of the lever. After a couple of minutes searching, he finally located it in a back area of the main gathering room. Absol ran over to him as he rubbed his paws together and grasped hold of the handle.
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The Great Fox was leaving the moon where Metaknight had left King Dedede’s remains. There was a great state of melancholy around the hanger as Metaknight rounded up the Waddle Dees and the Waddle Doo, all of which were crying at the death of their king. The others had long faces, some merely stared into nothingness still dumbfounded at the sight they had beheld. Even Wario, who normally had the emotional depth of a cheese sandwich, was feeling more down than his normal self. Despite the sadness, the group was resting and healing their wounds. Several had made their way into the ship’s mess hall and had brought back food for the others. Luigi sat on top of a crate sulking because there was no spaghetti on board. Kirby and Yoshi were pigging out while Bowser sat near a vacant arwing with a small spread before him. As he took his first bite, he felt a tapping on his shell. He swallowed loudly and turned to see his son looking worried.
Bowser: “What is it son?”
Bowser Jr: “Dad….i’m sorry.”
Bowser: “For what?”
Bowser Jr.: “I’m sorry I wasn’t much help back there fighting Geno. I paniced and ended up being as useless as a single goomba. I didn’t do anything to help. I’m sorry, and I promise I’ll try harder next time.”
Bowser placed his food back down and placed both hands on his son’s shoulders.
Bowser: “I’m just glad you’re safe.”
Most of the denizens of the Mushroom Kingdom whipped their heads towards Bowser. They had never seen him exhibit such a fatherly emotion before. It was highly unnatural to see him do so.
Bowser: “Yes I enjoy fighting with you, but this is something outside of just Mario and Luigi. This is much worse; it’s beyond anything I could have ever imagined. I don’t blame you at all. Besides, you aren’t the only one. Wario and Yoshi didn’t do a single thing to help us either. If you insist though, we can spar a little bit on the journey to help you train.”
Bowser Jr.: “Yeah, let’s do it!”
Metaknight: “This is a war, not a playground.”
Bowser: “Excuse me?”
Metaknight: “You heard me. He’s a child; he shouldn’t have a part in this.”
Bowser: “Are you trying to tell me how to raise my own son? And why do you all of a sudden care? Why not just sit back and toss out some more smart comments?”
Metaknight: “If telling you that a child’s place is in safety and not on the battlefield, then yes, giving you instruction on how to raise yours is exactly what I’m doing. The grave nature of this situation is heavy and blatantly obviouis. I should have notices the danger before. I am a knight; I should have been acting like one instead of fooling around as I have been. Now I have paid the price. King Dedede is dead, and now I am responsible for that group over there.”
Bowser: “Then go be responsible, leave us out of it.”
Metaknight: “I’m just saying…look at the sadness brought by the death of an adult, a leader of some magnitude. Just imagine what hearbreak would come if this child were to die. Just think of how you would feel if you didn’t, or couldn’t protect him.”
Bowser: “You underestimate us.”
Metaknight: “Perhaps you overestimate yourself.”
With that, Metaknight wrapped himself within his cape and walked away. Jumping on top of another box he began to stare out the window. Bowser blew smoke from his nose as he slammed back down to the ground. Everyone went about their business discussing old times and taking small naps blissfully unaware of their persuers.
Almost a full mile behind the Great Fox, four red space ships sped out from behind a moon. The wolfen were in normal format as Wolf laughed loudly.
Wolf: “Well well, Star Fox…we meet again.”
Leon: “Are we gonna blast them into the cosmos? I have my finger ready!”
Wolf: “Hold off, Leon. They seem to be flying at haste. I wonder where they are going.”
Pigma: “Does it matter? They’re completely obvivious to us. Sneak attack is the best option.”
Wolf: “You planning on leading this team Pigma? You’ve been more distant than normal in the past few months. You’re cooking something up, but I can’t put my claw on it. If taking over this team is what you’ve got up your sleve, then you must be more of a fool than I thought.”
Pigma: “I…I...”
Wolf: “Now if I don’t have anymore interruptions. We should be tailing them. They’re obviously going somewhere important to be traveling at these speeds. We could attack them now, but we know how well they can pilot those arwings. Perhaps we could surprise them once they are on the ground. Star Wolf, move out!”
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Elsewhere, flying through the soot ridden sky, Lugia had begun an investigation into the suddenly active volcanoes. He was making his daily rounds since Mewtwo’s absence and noticed the scene. His mind was racing as he sped through the darkness. He knew that the source was somewhere close. It happened to be closer than he knew as a sphere of black energy flew his direction from slightly below. Lugia twirled out of the way and dove down through the soot clouds. Opon emerging beneath them, he gasped at the sight of Rayquaza, Latios, and Latias battling Ridley. Both small dragons were speeding around Ridley slamming into him, as Rayquaza was using dragon attacks and slashing his tail.
Ridley opened his mouth wide and conjured a gigantic fireball. Latios and Latias sped out of the way but Rayquaza simply foated directly in front of him prepared to shoulder the blast. As Ridley released the small inferno, Lugia used his Hydro Pump to reduse it to smoke. This startled both Ridley and the other pokemon. Lugia rushed in charging his Aeroblast, but Ridley began flying towards him charging a shot of dark energy. Both attacks were released and collided in a large explosion. Lugia flew backwards to get a better view, but the smoke caused by the colliding attacks had given Rayquaza the opportunity he needed. Amidst the confusion, Rayquaza had wrapped himself completely around Ridley’s large body and was squeezing him. Ridley shrieked into the air as Rayquaza made a dive for the water below. Latios followed, but Latias flew to Lugia.
Lugia: “What’s going on here? That’s Ridley that Fox was talking about right? Why’s he here? Did he do this? And why are you two here?”
Latias: “I don’t really know; we just showed up. Mewtwo sent us to warn you that Fox was telling the truth, but apparrantly Ridley was far ahead of us. We’ve been holding him off, but it’s taking all our energy, and he seems to not be the least bit tired.”
Lugia looked down as Rayquaza dove into the ocean below. Seconds later Rayquaza burst from the water and looked down at the bubbles forming along the surface. He and Latios were both charging attacks as they faced the ocean. Ridley quickly flew from the water, his dark aura even more prominent. Rayquaza and Latios both fired their attacks, but Ridley was too fast for them. As Ridley flew higher into the sky, the others persued.
Lugia: “He’s even more powerful than I could have imagined. You all need my help.”
Latias: “True as that may be, we need more than just your power. We need everyone we can possibly get. You thinking what I’m thinking?”
Lugia: “The council! Surely they will act now that these volcanoes have erupted. I..”
Suddenly a large light shown into the sky, Lugia and Latios turned around to see where this brilliance was coming from. Both pokemon began to smile as they looked directly at the mountain of the pokemon council. The beacon was in full light calling the legends of the lands.
Latias: “Excellent, someone must have already seen this and turned the lever.”
Lugia: “I’ll go tell them of what’s going on. Are you sure that you can handle him till we return?”
Latias: “I think so, but I can’t necessarily make any promises. Please, hurry.”
Lugia: “Hang in there!”
Lugia spread his wings wide and flew towards the Council’s beacon. He had to hurry before his friends were destroyed. The whole world depended on this.
Latios, Latias, and the pair of Deoxys were flying through space towards the Pokemon Planet. The four were conversing about their adventures and legend surrounding their existences. Latios and Latias were pleased to no longer travel alone, while the Deoxys were just happy to finally have some friendly company. Together, the small group of legends was twirling past comets, seemingly in a race. The planet in the distance was drawing closer and closer.
Latias: “Well, we’re almost there. You two have been so kind to travel with us, why don’t you stay, and help us warn the others down there.”
Deoxys: “As much as we wish to continue a journey with you, our new friends, we made up our minds a long time ago to never help that dragon. We don’t plan on budging from that stand, which is why we denied joining that council.”
Latios: “Yeah, I do barely remember someone mentioning you at the council’s last meeting.”
Deoxys: “Yes, we were sent an invitation by a human from the planet. He was some form of astronaut. The human gave us an invitation to join, but upon reading the list of other active members, we noticed Rayquaza. That was all it took. We decided not to give any inclination of our denial and just quietly abandon the whole idea.”
Latias: “That’s so sad. I’m sorry that you feel the need to avoid us just because of one other pokemon.”
Latios: “Latias, let them be. They have their reasons, and we shouldn’t be annoying them with questions about their judgement.”
Latias wanted to press the matter further, but decided to fly on silently. Both Deoxys kept looking over at their new friends as all four flew on as fast as possible. They knew what Latias said was true, but their stubbornness overtook their will to be friendly. Closer and closer the atmosphere of the planet came. The party began to slow down, and came to a complete stop right outside of the atmosphere of the Pokemon Planet. They looked down at the planet to see something they hadn’t expected. The sky was black, through the small openings in the soot, they could count no less than three volcanoes billowing smoke into the sky. Both Latias and Latios were confused by the sight and began to look around the sky for anything else. It was then that they saw them. Below them, yet high in the sky were Rayquaza, and the purple dragon Fox had warned them about, Ridley. The two were in a fierce battle. Tails, claws, and energy were flying everywhere; however, it was Ridley who seemed to have the upper hand. He was smaller and slightly faster. Also, Rayquaza seemed to be tiring out. The battle must have been going on for quite some time.
Latios: “We’ve gotta go help him.”
Latios began to zoom towards the fighting duo but paused when he noticed his partner was not doing the same. He turned around to see Latias facing the pair of Deoxys. She inched closer to them as she began to speak.
Latias: “Please, won’t you two come help us. You held off Rayquaza before, and this foe is more powerful than him from the looks of it. We can’t do this alone.”
Deoxys: “Rayquaza can rot for all we care. We’re not going to aid such a heartless beast.”
Latias: “He’s not that way, I promise you. Please, we need you. At least do it for us.”
Latios: “Come on, Latias. They’re obviously not going to help us, they’re too busy watching out for themselves and holding on to a stupid grudge to see the suffering going on down there. Having the nerve to talk about heartless beasts, you two should look at your own selves. Let’s get out of here, now!”
Latias lowered her head and she and Latios turned around and sped to aid Rayquaza. Both Deoxys floated motionless; a look of irritation shown on both their faces. With their company now gone, they were now able to go about their business, but for some reason they couldn’t. Instead, they floated there, watching. Whether it was to watch Rayquaza’s struggle, or something else, they did not know. Latios and Latias meanwhile were speeding through the atmosphere like two comets crashing to the land below. As they increased their speed towards Ridley, both small dragons turned themselves invisible once again.
Ridley and Rayquaza were still thrashing and clawing each other. Rayquaza was showing signs of exhaustion as his movements became slower, but his breathing increased. Ridley, on the other hand, seemed fully energized as if he had been stationary during the entire battle. Rayquaza sent a dragon pulse straight into Ridley’s chest. The impact moved Ridley a few feet, but as he was sent backwards he whipped his tail across Rayquaza’s face. His sharp tail struck one of Rayquaza’s eyes. As reared his head and roared in pain as a small drop of blood came from his injured eye. When Rayquaza opened them once more, Ridley was immediately in front of him; his mouth open wide and charging an attack of dark energy. The attack was planned to be devastating but suddenly Ridley’s head jerked as if struck from the back of the head. The energy ball was sent flying straight above him. Rayquaza backed away, to witness Ridley’s body once again jerk madly as if being struck from the back. Ridley shook his head and began to look around for the cause of his pain, when suddenly he was simultaneously hit in the stomach and the side of the face. Ridley was now getting angry as he heard laughter around him. Rayquaza recognized the laughter immediately.
Rayquaza: “Latios, Latias! I’m glad you have come to help me, but why are you here? What’s happened to Mewtwo and the others?”
As soon as they were addressed both pokemon lowered their invisibility and faced Ridley head on.
Latios: “Someone attacked them, so they sent us to warn you all, but it looks like we’re a little too late.”
Rayquaza: “No matter, I have held him off for a decent amount of time. Only the volcanoes have erupted, and nothing else to my attention.”
Ridley roared into the air as he charged towards his opponents. Latios and Latias flew out of the way, but Rayquaza was too slow. Ridley caught the dragon’s throat in his mouth, and began to bite down. Quickly, Latias began to glow a pink color as she used her psychic energy to fly towards Ridley in a full Zen Headbutt. Latios however gathered a ball of light into his mouth and shot a Luster Purge straight at Ridley’s face. The luster purge hit ridley in between the eyes. As he roared into the sky, his noise was shortened by the impact of Latias at Ridley’s Ribs. Ridley began to fly away from the large dragon to distance himself from the attacks. As Latios and Latias checked on Rayquaza, Ridley began to laugh a prehistoric, menacing laugh. The trio looked at him as he began to glow a dark aura around him. The power he was generating was immense as his eyes glowed a deeper color of red.
Latias: “Guys, I think it’s gonna take a lot more than that to get rid of this thing.”
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Meanwhile on the ground of Kanto, Meowth, Blaziken, and Absol were beginning to climb the mountain towards the Council’s meeting place. The initial trek up the mountain was difficult as it was a rocky area full of ledges and tall drops. Once one reached to top large ledge, there was a pleasant, easy pathway up the incline straight to the council. Wild pokemon took refuge at the top portion of this mountain as few trainers ever dared climb the lower rocks. Blue was the only known pokemon trainer to have ever persued the top portion. Blaziken and Absol, who were in very good physical shape, were running full speed, jumping off rocks, and twirling to the top of ledges. Meowth, on the other hand, was lagging behind a short distance.
Meowth: “Guys, I know we’re in a hurry, but could you wait just a freaking second?! I’m about to collapse.”
Blaziken: “Perhaps if you hadn’t eaten so many doughnuts, your fat self would be able to keep up.”
Meowth: “That’s a low blow there, bird brain. I can’t just jump up to the top of these stupid ledges; I have to actually take my time to climb up them.”
Absol: “Aren’t cat’s supposed to be superb climbers?”
Meowth: “Why you dirty little…”
As Meowth’s irritation level rose, the adrenaline in his body began pumping harder. Within seconds he had caught up to Absol and Blaziken at the top of a large ledge. He stood at the edge eyeing both pokemon angrily.
Blaziken: “Now see, that wasn’t hard at all, was it?”
Meowth: “I have the right mind to kick you right in the...hey; we’re already at the pathway? How did? You all had this planned didn’t you!”
Absol and Blaziken smiled at each other and walked on up the pathway. Meowth grimaced as he followed them. As the three made their way up the pathway, they saw several wild pokemon including swablu, spearow, rattata, and a large variety of bug types. Still pressing onward, they could see the top pillars protruding from the top of the mountain. Their goal was right before them, but suddenly they heard a strange noise nearby. All around them they could hear small popping noises as if something was appearing and disappearing. The trio looked around and sure enough, to the left of them picking berries off a bush, was an abra. Meowth and Absol did not think anything of it as the mysterious noise was solved. Blaziken, on the other hand, stood and stared at the lonely abra. He was squinting as he held the end of his beak in one hand. Meowth and Absol had just noticed their traveling partner was not with them when Blaziken began to creep slowly towards the abra.
Meowth: “What are you doing?”
Absol: “We don’t have time for this!”
Blaziken: “Shut it, I don’t want him to teleport away.”
Meowth and Absol stood completely silent while absolutely confused at what was happening. Blaziken continued to inch his way towards the abra. Suddenly, the fire bird leaped into the air and landed on the immediate other side of the bush. The abra was starteled by this as he screamed and scattered berries everywhere. His body began to sparkle from the teleport he was starting to do, but his new company caught his eye instead. Blaziken was standing before him, eyes closed with his hands crossed over his chest, clenching both sholders. Still keeping his head down and eyes closed, he slowly extended both arms and clenched his fingers with hit thumbs still protruding from his hands. Brining both thumbs together to touch at the ends, he opened his eyes and looked down at the abra, who was staring wide eyed at him.
Abra: “You know of it?”
Blaziken: “Of course I do.”
Abra: “How did you know I was in?”
Blaziken: “That’s easy, it’s the x shaped scar they place on your body…barely visible but to psychics and those with extremely keen eyesight.”
Abra: “Ah, I see, but that still doesn’t explain how you know about us.”
Blaziken: “I don’t really have time for all that, but if you must know, I was part of the Magma Aqua campaign. I also trained your first medicham in fighting combat.”
Abra: “Woah, so you’re that Blaziken? Amazing! How can I be of service?”
Blaziken: “I need to speak with him.”
Abra: “Does it have anything to do with that bunch at the top of this mountain? I’m sure you know how he feels about them.”
Blaziken: “Yes it does, but it more importantly has to do with that over there.”
Blaziken pointed towards the darkened area of the sky. Abra began to glow with his psychic powers as he used his ability to see that great distance.
Abra: “Woah, this looks like bad news. Rayquaza is having that much trouble with this one thing?”
Blaziken: “Exactly, Now do you see why we need your help?”
Abra: “Tell the big shot to do it. I’m sure that’s what the boss will say.”
Blaziken: “He’s not even on this planet. He went with several others to try to fight other things like that purple dragon out there. Either something has happened to them, or this one just slipped out of their sight. Either way we are the ones who have to deal with him, not Mewtwo.”
Meowth: “When you two ladies are done discussing fasion, would you mind telling me what the hell is going on?”
Blaziken: “Later, Meowth. Abra, can you please teleport me to him? We need you all.”
Abra: “It’s the least I can do for a hero such as yourself.”
Blaziken: “Excellent! Meowth, Absol, you two head on up and flip that switch. We’ll return shortly with help, hopefully.”
Absol: “I don’t know what you’re doing but take care of yourself in the meantime.”
Abra used his powers to float on top of Blaziken’s shoulder. As soon as he landed, both pokemon’s bodies began to sparkle and in an instant, had vanished from the spot. Meowth stood looking at the scene still confused before finally running on up the path with Absol. They ran at top speed till they had reached the open doorway of the Council. Just as Absol had described earlier, the place was desolate, and only a few rattata remained. Meowth kicked at them as he passed through in search of the lever. After a couple of minutes searching, he finally located it in a back area of the main gathering room. Absol ran over to him as he rubbed his paws together and grasped hold of the handle.
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The Great Fox was leaving the moon where Metaknight had left King Dedede’s remains. There was a great state of melancholy around the hanger as Metaknight rounded up the Waddle Dees and the Waddle Doo, all of which were crying at the death of their king. The others had long faces, some merely stared into nothingness still dumbfounded at the sight they had beheld. Even Wario, who normally had the emotional depth of a cheese sandwich, was feeling more down than his normal self. Despite the sadness, the group was resting and healing their wounds. Several had made their way into the ship’s mess hall and had brought back food for the others. Luigi sat on top of a crate sulking because there was no spaghetti on board. Kirby and Yoshi were pigging out while Bowser sat near a vacant arwing with a small spread before him. As he took his first bite, he felt a tapping on his shell. He swallowed loudly and turned to see his son looking worried.
Bowser: “What is it son?”
Bowser Jr: “Dad….i’m sorry.”
Bowser: “For what?”
Bowser Jr.: “I’m sorry I wasn’t much help back there fighting Geno. I paniced and ended up being as useless as a single goomba. I didn’t do anything to help. I’m sorry, and I promise I’ll try harder next time.”
Bowser placed his food back down and placed both hands on his son’s shoulders.
Bowser: “I’m just glad you’re safe.”
Most of the denizens of the Mushroom Kingdom whipped their heads towards Bowser. They had never seen him exhibit such a fatherly emotion before. It was highly unnatural to see him do so.
Bowser: “Yes I enjoy fighting with you, but this is something outside of just Mario and Luigi. This is much worse; it’s beyond anything I could have ever imagined. I don’t blame you at all. Besides, you aren’t the only one. Wario and Yoshi didn’t do a single thing to help us either. If you insist though, we can spar a little bit on the journey to help you train.”
Bowser Jr.: “Yeah, let’s do it!”
Metaknight: “This is a war, not a playground.”
Bowser: “Excuse me?”
Metaknight: “You heard me. He’s a child; he shouldn’t have a part in this.”
Bowser: “Are you trying to tell me how to raise my own son? And why do you all of a sudden care? Why not just sit back and toss out some more smart comments?”
Metaknight: “If telling you that a child’s place is in safety and not on the battlefield, then yes, giving you instruction on how to raise yours is exactly what I’m doing. The grave nature of this situation is heavy and blatantly obviouis. I should have notices the danger before. I am a knight; I should have been acting like one instead of fooling around as I have been. Now I have paid the price. King Dedede is dead, and now I am responsible for that group over there.”
Bowser: “Then go be responsible, leave us out of it.”
Metaknight: “I’m just saying…look at the sadness brought by the death of an adult, a leader of some magnitude. Just imagine what hearbreak would come if this child were to die. Just think of how you would feel if you didn’t, or couldn’t protect him.”
Bowser: “You underestimate us.”
Metaknight: “Perhaps you overestimate yourself.”
With that, Metaknight wrapped himself within his cape and walked away. Jumping on top of another box he began to stare out the window. Bowser blew smoke from his nose as he slammed back down to the ground. Everyone went about their business discussing old times and taking small naps blissfully unaware of their persuers.
Almost a full mile behind the Great Fox, four red space ships sped out from behind a moon. The wolfen were in normal format as Wolf laughed loudly.
Wolf: “Well well, Star Fox…we meet again.”
Leon: “Are we gonna blast them into the cosmos? I have my finger ready!”
Wolf: “Hold off, Leon. They seem to be flying at haste. I wonder where they are going.”
Pigma: “Does it matter? They’re completely obvivious to us. Sneak attack is the best option.”
Wolf: “You planning on leading this team Pigma? You’ve been more distant than normal in the past few months. You’re cooking something up, but I can’t put my claw on it. If taking over this team is what you’ve got up your sleve, then you must be more of a fool than I thought.”
Pigma: “I…I...”
Wolf: “Now if I don’t have anymore interruptions. We should be tailing them. They’re obviously going somewhere important to be traveling at these speeds. We could attack them now, but we know how well they can pilot those arwings. Perhaps we could surprise them once they are on the ground. Star Wolf, move out!”
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Elsewhere, flying through the soot ridden sky, Lugia had begun an investigation into the suddenly active volcanoes. He was making his daily rounds since Mewtwo’s absence and noticed the scene. His mind was racing as he sped through the darkness. He knew that the source was somewhere close. It happened to be closer than he knew as a sphere of black energy flew his direction from slightly below. Lugia twirled out of the way and dove down through the soot clouds. Opon emerging beneath them, he gasped at the sight of Rayquaza, Latios, and Latias battling Ridley. Both small dragons were speeding around Ridley slamming into him, as Rayquaza was using dragon attacks and slashing his tail.
Ridley opened his mouth wide and conjured a gigantic fireball. Latios and Latias sped out of the way but Rayquaza simply foated directly in front of him prepared to shoulder the blast. As Ridley released the small inferno, Lugia used his Hydro Pump to reduse it to smoke. This startled both Ridley and the other pokemon. Lugia rushed in charging his Aeroblast, but Ridley began flying towards him charging a shot of dark energy. Both attacks were released and collided in a large explosion. Lugia flew backwards to get a better view, but the smoke caused by the colliding attacks had given Rayquaza the opportunity he needed. Amidst the confusion, Rayquaza had wrapped himself completely around Ridley’s large body and was squeezing him. Ridley shrieked into the air as Rayquaza made a dive for the water below. Latios followed, but Latias flew to Lugia.
Lugia: “What’s going on here? That’s Ridley that Fox was talking about right? Why’s he here? Did he do this? And why are you two here?”
Latias: “I don’t really know; we just showed up. Mewtwo sent us to warn you that Fox was telling the truth, but apparrantly Ridley was far ahead of us. We’ve been holding him off, but it’s taking all our energy, and he seems to not be the least bit tired.”
Lugia looked down as Rayquaza dove into the ocean below. Seconds later Rayquaza burst from the water and looked down at the bubbles forming along the surface. He and Latios were both charging attacks as they faced the ocean. Ridley quickly flew from the water, his dark aura even more prominent. Rayquaza and Latios both fired their attacks, but Ridley was too fast for them. As Ridley flew higher into the sky, the others persued.
Lugia: “He’s even more powerful than I could have imagined. You all need my help.”
Latias: “True as that may be, we need more than just your power. We need everyone we can possibly get. You thinking what I’m thinking?”
Lugia: “The council! Surely they will act now that these volcanoes have erupted. I..”
Suddenly a large light shown into the sky, Lugia and Latios turned around to see where this brilliance was coming from. Both pokemon began to smile as they looked directly at the mountain of the pokemon council. The beacon was in full light calling the legends of the lands.
Latias: “Excellent, someone must have already seen this and turned the lever.”
Lugia: “I’ll go tell them of what’s going on. Are you sure that you can handle him till we return?”
Latias: “I think so, but I can’t necessarily make any promises. Please, hurry.”
Lugia: “Hang in there!”
Lugia spread his wings wide and flew towards the Council’s beacon. He had to hurry before his friends were destroyed. The whole world depended on this.
[M:-5]
