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Post by sandragon13 on Jan 3, 2007 23:05:13 GMT -5
Finally, Chapter 9 is here.
Chapter 9 – “Like never since, like never before.”
The Fury of the Storm cruised around the north-western coast of Otaru, navigating through a maze of reefs and coral islands backed by the emerald shore and azure sky. The ever-present tropical sun beat down on the deck, despite the early hour. The ship was abuzz with activity, as the young trainers collected their belongings from their cabins. On everyone’s mind was last night’s encounter with the King Tentacruel, the storm, and the mysterious figure who defeated the monster. Their destination, Ironspine Academy, was located in the wilderness beyond Ironspine City, a city on the western coast of Otaru. The city sat on a terraced mountainside, stretching from the sea to the ridge of gray stone high above, said one of the sailors. The far side of the ridge, towards the interior of the continent, was some manner of thick jungle, punctuated with steep hills, cliffs, and ravines. The base of the mountain terminated in low foothills, vanishing into plains and savanna. Beyond that, the young sailor had said, he had never ventured.
As the sun rose higher, the coastline of Otaru revealed a city, green-and-gray on a rise of stone. The ship sailed into the calm waters, entering the mountain’s vast shadow as it stretched over the sea. For a brief moment, the sun rimmed the ridge’s peak in gold, shimmering in all directions. As the vessel approached a row of cement docks that lined the shore, figures became visible at work on the wharf. People and Pokemon, working side by side, using their skills to haul equipment, lay cement, and load crates onto waiting ships. Captain Keith stood behind the trainers as they assembled by the rail, each taking in their first good view of Otaru’s Ironspine City. The young captain removed his white hat and wiped the sweat from his brow, glad to have brought this group to the port safely. He had completed his duty soundly, but he knew who had helped save the ship from the King Tentacruel. These kids, he thought to himself, they are the key.
Disembarking at the seaside dock, the trainers turned and waved goodbye to Captain Keith as the Fury of the Storm turned to head back out to sea. Turning toward the city, they gathered around Del, who held the map wide before him. “Looks like we have to head straight up the ridge,” said Trevor, tracing his finger up a main avenue that raced up towards the summit. “According to this, there’s a Pokemon Gym in this town, it’s up at the top of the mountain too.” “Once we get up there,” said Alex, adjusting his beanie, “we have to go back down the other side, out of the city.” “And into the jungle,” said Brian, normally quiet, but now interested in the journey. It’ll be good to get out of the city, he thought, and into the shade of the trees. “We should be at the Academy by this time tomorrow,” said Ashley, “at least that’s what the Captain said. We just have to follow this road.”
Minutes later, the group stood in the shadow of the mountain, staring up at the steeply-graded road before them. The city, arranged on great step-like swaths of rock carved into the mountainside, rose up before them, framed by the clear tropical sky. “Straight up this road,” said James, “straight up is right.” “It’s not that bad,” said Del confidently. “Yeah, we can do this,” said Alex, glancing back toward the group. “We just have to get moving. Onward and upward!” The seventeen trainers began the long trek upward, through neighborhoods of stone-and-steel buildings, punctuated by trees with blackish bark. They marched, some in single file, some in pairs, level cross streets the only relief from the relentless ascension. Near the summit they traversed an ornate flagstone bridge, crossing a river flowing down from the mountain’s peak. Finally, they approached the zenith of the great ridge, barren and rocky save for a few stone buildings. On the far side, they could see the path snake into the mass of green treetops stretching into the distance as the hill receded away, and beyond, a great sandy plain.
Standing at this apex, the seventeen trainers could see the rooftops of the great city below them, falling toward the sea. The sun had begun to descend as well, blazing orange as it sank toward the sea. Within minutes they had scattered around the desolate mountaintop, taking in the views and resting their aching legs. Ashley, Amy, and Evelyn sat at a stone table near a cluster of buildings, talking. Courtney, Alex, and Trevor sat together, the two boys shooting glances at one another. Del and Ed were taking turns hurling rocks and sticks into the trees far below, occasionally sending a flock of Taillow or Pidgey screeching into the sky. Summer gazed out at the sea, sparkling gold beneath the setting sun. Oliver, Nate, and Brian looked out over the trees, speaking of their pasts to one another. James sat alone, as did Vince, both young men silently watching the group. Megan quietly rested near a building. Chester, wandering around the edges of the forest, heard a hushed noise from a nearby building. Turning sharply, he saw the quiet girl, Vanessa, reclined against a shaded stone wall. He wouldn’t have seen her had she stayed silent. She glanced upward as he approached, shoes crunching on the rocky earth. Even in the shady darkness, her eyes seemed to radiate emotion, nearly fluid in their clarity. “Sorry if I startled you,” he said, slowly walking toward the girl. Why is she separate from the group, he wondered to himself. Why is she hiding in the darkness? Vanessa gave no response, but she sat up straighter, still leaning against the cool stone. Her face gave no expression of contempt, but not one of acceptance either. Chester took another step toward her. “Why are you over here, in the shadows?” A flash, some unreadable flicker, passed through the girl’s eyes. She closed her eyes, and turned away from him. “I do so both by choice,” she said quietly, without looking up, “and by necessity.”
Captain Keith stood atop the bridge of the Fury of the Storm, gazing back at his last glimpse of the city. Shading his eyes with his hand, he remembered what he had been told, weeks earlier. “Like never before,” he told himself, as the gray city vanished over the horizon. “And like never since.”
-sandragon13
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Post by Pikafan on Jan 4, 2007 6:48:03 GMT -5
Nice Chapter.
He knows who defeated King Tentacruel..
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Post by Kris on Jan 4, 2007 16:57:12 GMT -5
Vanessa is acting emo. ;-; Uhh, good chapter, sandragon. ;D
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Post by sandragon13 on Jan 4, 2007 20:28:01 GMT -5
Before I put out the 10th chapter, I'd like to hear comments from anybody who's read the story, what you like about it or what you don't like. Also, I'd like to see any predictions you might have for any of the characters... -sandragon13
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Post by Pikafan on Jan 21, 2007 17:51:45 GMT -5
I think that something horrible will happen to them, and later in the future, some will get EXPELLED.
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Post by sandragon13 on Jan 21, 2007 17:53:34 GMT -5
Ooooo, good idea...I'll have to take that into consideration ;D
Anyway, world premiere, triple-length installment of Class of '06!
Chapter 10 – Jungle Jinx
Vanessa lowered her gaze, leaning her head back against the chipped stone wall. Chester mind was fervent with questions: “Both by choice, and by necessity?” What could that mean? What…
“You’re probably wondering what I meant by that…” Vanessa began. “I was born in Ecruteak City, a place famous for its long history, and for the two Towers that exist there. The Burned Tower, to the west of town, was once the roost of a powerful legendary Pokemon. Long ago, however, the tower was set ablaze and was destroyed. The sections of the tower that still stand are home to Ghost Pokemon now, attracted by the sense of loss and violence that occurred there.”
“I’ve heard that story before,” Chester said, staring up into the cloudless night sky high above. “In school we did research on a historical site outside of Hoenn. I chose Ecruteak City for its dark history, the site of many events that changed the Johto region and inspired change around the world.”
The violet-eyed girl nodded gently. “My family’s home was near the Burned Tower, its great shadow swinging over our house every day as the sun rose and fell. One day, however, when I was very young, I strayed from my yard and made my way up to the tower. I found a way in, and wandered around inside. The walls were scorched black with marks from the great fire; there were broken beams and rubble everywhere. Suddenly, the floor gave way beneath me, and I fell down into some sort of underground room. The darkness down there…was absolute. No night has ever been so dark. In shock, I was scared for my life. Then, without warning, the room began to illuminate, dozens of small bluish flames bursting into spontaneous life. The flickering wisps grew closer around me, and in the darkness beyond I could see shapes, shadows that moved with incorporeal motion. Slowly they revealed themselves, the Ghost Pokemon that took up residence in the tower. There were some there, species that I had never seen before. I stood before them, in the pure blackness of the basement, the dancing azure flames floating around me. I was…no longer afraid…I sensed a security in these Pokemon. They meant me no harm…rather, they seemed to understand me, and I them. There was a Gengar, who seemed to be their leader, lifted me back up through the hole to the ground floor. The bright sun shone through the ruined building, and I made my way back down the hill to my home.”
Chester, who had taken a seat leaning against an opposite wall, was amazed with what he had heard. “For years after that day,” Vanessa continued, “I snuck back into the tower when I could spare the time, and spent time with the Ghosts. Even though they are Pokemon, I felt that they could understand me better than any human could. As I grew, however, I noticed that I began to burn easily when I was exposed to the sun, and that the heat of the day sapped my strength. I had never been that way before. The Ghost Pokemons’ influence seemed to cause change within me. The more I grew, the more this proved true. I became withdrawn, quiet, fleeting. I couldn’t bear long periods in the sun. I became…as a Ghost myself.”
Vanessa wiped a tear from her eye, and reached to her side, where a gray bag sat. She withdrew a Pokeball, and opened it. The reddish form gradually took shape, with a bulging head punctuated with a hornlike structure, large bluish eyes, and wispy body. “This is Fallen,” she said softly. The Shuppet floated silently beside her, wide eyes watching her trainer. “One day around the time I turned 13, I returned to the tower. A Shuppet that had made its way to Johto from Hoenn was injured, and the resident Pokemon were attempting to heal it. It was clear to me that if this Pokemon wasn’t cared for properly, she wouldn’t make it. I took her, wrapped in cloth to protect her from the sun, and ran into town to the Pokemon Center. For hours the nurses cared for her, as I wept, fearing I had been too late. Finally, the doors opened, and the Shuppet was wheeled out. She would be fine, the nurse said, but she won’t last in the wild. Our eyes locked, and I knew that this is what would be best for the Shuppet.” She sighed, and finished, “Fallen and I share a spiritual bond…she’s my best friend.”
Vanessa looked up from the ground, raising her gaze to meet Chester’s. “I keep to the shadows, as much as I can, because it causes me pain to stay in the sun for too long. It drains me of my strength. But I also enjoy their embrace, because…I’m not good at talking to people.” Chester replied, “Then why did you tell me all this just now?” “I…I can sense…some of the same darkness that dwells within me, I can see it in you as well. I feel you are one of the few in this group who can understand me, though I hardly know you.” Chester looked up at the sky again. “I…” “Hey everybody!” came a sudden shout from the woods, “come and check this out!”
At the sound, the group snapped to attention, eyes drawn to the woods that shrouded one side of their makeshift campsite. Oliver, the boy in the ninja outfit, came running out, pointing back excitedly. Del stood and shouted at the boy, “What, what is it?” His hand instinctively reached for the pokeball on his belt. “It’s a building,” the boy said, “a real one, not all ruined and stuff. It has windows, and fountains…” “Lead us to it,” James said, jumping down from a rock. “OK, follow me,” said Oliver, motioning into the woods. The rest of the group followed, up a slight incline, on the narrow ridge. Finally, they broke the tree line, and there in a clearing was a large building hewn of the same whitish stone as the buildings in the upper echelons of the town below. “There’s a sign here,” said Trevor, pointing at a flat-sided rock near the edge of the clearing. “Ironspine City Pokemon Gym.”
Looking around, the group realized that the clearing in which the gym sat was in fact a stone precipice overhanging the edge of the cliff and overlooking the trees of the forest below. The courtyard where they stood was made of stone, but had been overgrown with grasses and weeds thriving in the summer sun. A pair of fountains stood before the entrance, flowing fourth into stone basins. The building itself was tall, and wide windows lined its upper walls. A set of double doors stood at its base, thick and carved of some dark wood. Alex walked near the building’s edge, and tested the doors. They were locked securely, not surprisingly.
“So there is a Gym here,” James said, eying the ominous structure looming above him. “Too bad the leader’s not here, otherwise I’d challenge him to a battle for a badge.” “We should head back to the campsite and get settled down for the night,” Del said. “It’s getting dark, and I don’t feel like getting lost at the edge of a cliff at night.”
The group moved off, back to the circle of ruined buildings. They took shelter in the frames of the stone structures, the moon floating above. From the forest below they could hear the sounds of nocturnal Pokemon, and the roar of the waves drifted up from the sea. In the warm tropical night they slept, as the world turned.
Morning broke early, golden sun rising over the treetops and plains to the east. The 17 trainers rose, some grumbling aloud for getting up so early. Taking one last look at the magnificent view of the city and the sea bathed in the morning light, they made their way down the steep path into the thick trees. The air lay heavy upon them, the humidity an inescapable blanket beneath the canopy of green. All around them, the sounds of the forest echoed through the trees. Sunlight filtered through the emerald leaves above, sending shafts of light down onto the path. Pokemon of many kinds could be seen in the trees and the undergrowth itself seemed alive. Slakoth lazed in the branches above, half asleep in their slothfulness. At length, the group reached a fork in the road, one not marked on the map.
“Great, now what?” said James, as Evelyn and Del looked carefully at the map. “How do we know which way we have to go?” asked Del. “Mountains, I can handle, but in this jungle, my orienteering won’t work.” Suddenly, someone stepped forward from the group. It was Brian, the quiet kid from Celedon City. “I know how to choose…my Pokemon can help.” With that, he pulled a pokeball from his belt and threw it into the air. The ball opened and revealed a shortish, slender Pokemon with a large head. It was a Bellsprout, standing on a pair of root like legs, connecting to a reed like body. The Pokemon’s yellow head turned as it glanced around, small eyes blinking. “This is Roots, my partner.” Brian said. “Sprout,” was the response from the flycatcher Pokemon. “With his thin legs, he can detect vibrations in the ground. By listening to the earth, he can tell which way we have to go. Go ahead, buddy, show them.” “Sprout bel,” said the slender Pokemon, as it walked to the fork in the path and stood stock still, legs spread in a wide stance. Silence filled the air, only the sound of Pokemon in the forest remained. After a few seconds, the Bellsprout gave a confident-sounding “Sprout!” and turned its head toward the right fork. Del looked down the right-hand path. “So this is the way we have to go? Alright, Brian, we’ll take your word for it. Let’s get moving!”
Down the path, the group walked, as the day grew warm and sticky beneath the trees. Suddenly, a loud screeching yell broke the doldrums that had taken hold over the forest. A flash of white leapt in front of the group, and just like that, a wild Vigoroth stood growling before the trainers. “Whoa, watch out!” Del shouted to the group. “Vigoroth are very territorial, and with their strength and sharp claws, they’re a real danger. We have to…”
“Bonsai!!” came the shout, as the Cianwood Island trainer, Ed, charged to the front of the group. Shaking his fist at the wild Pokemon, he shouted, “Hey you, monkey! You want a battle, you’ve got one!” With that, he threw a pokeball into the air, and the shape that emerged appeared as a disheveled ball of fur with arms, legs, and a tail. The brownish Pokemon turned, revealing itself to be a Mankey. The fighting-type Pokemon grunted through its pig like nose, then screeched loudly at the Vigoroth. “Go Twitch, use Karate Chop!” shouted Ed. The Mankey leapt into action, bounding high into the air and swinging its deceptively powerful fist at Vigoroth. The white Pokemon jumped out of the way just in time to dodge the blow, and screeched at the charging Mankey. “Try a Low Kick, Twitch!” Ed shouted, jumping up and down with excitement. “Mankey!” shrieked the pig monkey Pokemon, swinging its foot at the normal-type. Vigoroth jumped over the attack, hurdling into the air and bring its claw down hard onto Twitch’s body. The powerful Scratch did damage to the Mankey, and it seemed defeated, until Ed shouted, “Counter!!” Twitch’s eyes shot open, glowing white, as it jumped up and, in the same motion, struck a potent blow with its fist into the Vigoroth’s chest. The counterattack sent the wild monkey Pokemon flying into a nearby tree, denting it with the force of impact. Vigoroth struggled to its feet and climbed back into the trees, vanishing into the canopy. “That’s the last we’ll see of him,” said Ed, a broad smile crossing his face.
The day wore on, the sun passing overhead through the cracks in the canopy. Soon, the trees grew thinner, until they gave way altogether to a great, sandy plain. Low hills and yellowish grass dominated the landscape. “The map,” said Del, his finger tracing the path, “says that after a few miles, this gives way to desert, and the Academy’s a short distance from there. We’ll take a short break for lunch, then finish up this journey.”
A half-hour later, the group was on the move again, traversing the hillocks and knolls of the landscape. Looking back they could see the forest rising on the ridge, wispy white clouds dotting the sky. By late afternoon, the grassy ground had given way to sand dunes, pallid on one side and shaded on the other. It was hard going, marching up one side and back down another, but as the sun set, they could see a mountain-like structure bursting from the sand. It was some kind of massive rock, one face shrouded in the shadow of the early evening. Drawing up close to it, the exhausted group found a small rocky structure, looking like some kind of boulder, lying before the mountain itself. A woman’s voice, clear and pleasant, suddenly began emanating from the rock. “Welcome, travelers. Please present your Pokedexes to the scanner below, to verify your identities.” Under a stone lip, an electronic device resembling a credit-card reader presented itself. In turn, each trainer scanned their Pokedex in the machine. After all seventeen ‘dexes had been scanned, the voice responded, “Welcome, young trainers. We have been expecting you. Please, come inside.” With that, a massive stone door slid open. in the base of the mountain, undetectable and seamless with the wall. The pathway beyond was illuminated with electric lights, and paved of some light stone.
“Sir, the Class of ’06 has arrived. All are accounted for.” The woman turned from her console as she spoke. The dimly lit room was filled with dozens of computer screens. The figure behind her nodded slightly, then turned and exited the chamber, the glass doors sliding shut behind him.
-sandragon13
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Post by Kris on Jan 21, 2007 18:32:26 GMT -5
Good chapter sandragon. >D I didn't see any typos zomg
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Post by sandragon13 on Jan 28, 2007 12:52:28 GMT -5
Chapter 11, ta da Chapter 11 – Fact-finding Mission Seventeen pairs of shoes on the smooth stone floor sent echoing footfalls down the long hallway. Slowly, the rocky exterior door slid shut behind them, and identical rows of wall sconces gave the entranceway a pleasant glow. The floor was some type of flat, smooth stone, arranged in a checkerboard of gray-shaded tiles. The walls, seemingly carved from sandstone, were rough to the touch, and textured like brownish stucco. Down the long hallway the group walked, their reflections looking down on them from the polished black marble that covered the ceiling in large panels. Finally, they reached a doorway, sealed a pair of clear panes illuminated from within by red lights. Another electronic panel, like the one they encountered outside. This one, however, featured a large square button that glowed green. Trevor, who was nearest to it, cautiously laid his hand on the switch. Surprisingly, the red lights in the door turned green, and the door slid open noiselessly. Walking through the threshold, the group was utterly amazed by what they saw. The room they entered was vast, approaching the size of the train depot in Mauville City. The ceiling towered several stories above them, and rings of lights wrapped each of the floors that hugged the walls below. From where they stood, they could see at least 3 levels of walkways carved into the stone walls. For its size it was surprisingly well-lit, blackened steel braziers of fire hanging on the walls. The walls on either side of the round room were lined with several doors, some ajar, others shut. Hallways could be seen stretching off into other parts of the complex. The floor was a vast checkered pattern of dark stone, though they could discern no recognizable pattern. However, the most prominent feature of this massive chamber was a titanic statue of a dragonlike Pokemon, carved of glistening black marble. It stood at least a storey tall; wings outspread and eyes seeming to leer down on the trainers. On either side of the statue stood a pair of tall, metal scaffolds, each holding aloft a huge dish of fire. The light of the flames flickered off of the gigantic Pokemon’s body, making the form even more imposing. Suddenly, their attention was diverted as a woman’s voice announced, “Welcome, young travelers!” The seventeen trainers took their eyes off of the statue and looked, nearly as one, to its base, where the voice had emerged. It was then that they noticed the desk, dusky in color with a crimson banner draped across it, and the smiling woman sitting behind it. She was relatively young, in her 30’s they guessed, with dark hair, brown eyes, and a kind smile. They made their way across the room and clustered around the surprisingly large desk. She was wearing some sort of short-sleeved dress, emerald green in color, and a matching accessory in her hair. She stood and said, “My name is Maya,” giving a slight bow as she did so. “I am honored to be the first to welcome you to Ironspine Academy. Your arrival has been long awaited; I trust that everyone arrived here safely?” “It’s been a long journey,” Del said, “but we’re all here.” Maya nodded, and said, “That is wonderful to hear. I’m sure that after your journey, you all must be in need of refreshment. I will lead you all to your quarters, and give you a brief tour of the Academy.” With that, she turned and began to walk across the dark stone floor towards one of the flame-lit hallways, the group following close behind her. “The room where we met is known as the Nexus Lobby. It is the heart of the Academy, from which any section of the facility can be accessed with ease. The entirety of Ironspine Academy is self-contained; it has its own power, water, and waste-management services... Ah, here we are.” Maya took a step forward and pushed open a set of double doors, revealing a large room with tables, enough to seat hundreds. “All of our food is grown, produced, and prepared here, in the Dining Hall. We serve a vast menu, rotated daily for each of the three daily meals. As you can see, we have adequate seating for many more, but this is a…special case.” Maya turned abruptly and said to the group, “Let’s go see more of the Academy, shall we?” She passed back through the doors, as members of the group gave each other puzzled looks. Back out into the hallway, Maya led the group up a long, gently curving flight of stairs, to the second floor. Exiting the stairway, they found themselves looking out over the Nexus Lobby, on one side of the giant statue. “We have to take another staircase to reach the next floor, where the classrooms are located.” At the mention of the word ‘classrooms,’ James gave a groan of disapproval, and Nathan glanced ahead, a small smile creasing his lips. Up another semicircular staircase cut from the rock, the group emerged on the second level, a full 30 feet above the lobby below. The floor consisted of a wide ring of stone, its radius to the wall some 10 feet wider than the floor below. The same was true for the floor below, and looking down from this height, the floors below look like giant stone steps down to the black stone floor. A balustrade of steel separated the walkway from a 10-foot drop. The walls in either direction were carved of rough sandstone and lined by intermittent doors and wall sconces. “This is the third floor, where all of the classrooms can be found. While you stay here you will be educated in everything from history to science, caring for Pokemon to battling with them. Our faculty lives on-site, and all are among the leaders in their areas of expertise. Even our chefs in the kitchen downstairs are famous throughout Otaru for their skill. Which reminds me: down the hallway opposite the Dining Hall on the ground floor, we have a full-service gymnasium, where your recreational sports of all types are at your disposal. We also have a Pokemon- and human-friendly weight room, and a full-size swimming pool. Also in that wing are the battlefields, where you may stage recreational Pokemon battles and where much of your battle training will take place. If you’ll follow me, I’ll take you all to your quarters.” Back down the stairs they went, hands grasping the outside wall’s steel handrail. Looking down this hallway, they noticed with a shock that no doors faced the Lobby, as with all of the other floors. “This is the second floor, where all of the residential dormitories for students are located. You have probably noticed that there are no doors visible from the main hall. This is because on either side, a smaller passageway arcs around inside this wall, and the doors can be found within. Seen from above, it roughly resembles a pot with two handles, the handles being the access hallways. The setup is this way for privacy. From this stairway, ladies, your rooms are to the left. Gentlemen, yours are to the right, on the far side of the ring. After 11 PM and before 9 AM, no member of the opposite gender is permitted in the other wing. We have security personnel who work around the clock, and will not fail to turn in any violators of this policy. Within your own hallway, however, you are free to intermingle as you please. Each hallway has its own array of showers, sinks, and amenities for that hallway’s use, and theirs alone. Your rooms are prepared for you’re your belongings are in your pre-assigned rooms, along with your room key. Finally, I have an announcement. Tonight at 6 o’clock, there will be a welcome dinner in the dining hall, where your professors will meet you for the first time. You are all expected to attend. Until then, please, make yourselves comfortable, take a shower, and unpack. Again, it has been an honor, I’m sure I’ll see you all again.” Maya gave another quick bow, and descended back down the stairs. The group split in two, each gender heading to their new quarters. As he walked near the rail, Chester noticed the statue again. From this point, it was facing him, gleaming from the flames. Suddenly it occurred to him: This statue…it has diamond-shaped wings… His mind flashed back to the cloaked figure…the storm…defeating the King Tentacruel as the waves lashed the deck of the ship. The hallways were in a state of uproar as everyone got settled in their new rooms. All of the rooms were roughly the same: Modestly sized, they were some 15 feet long, and roughly 13 feet wide. Each had a desk and chair with a series of shelves over it, a lamp, and a tall, wall-mounted closet unit. The beds were long, with metal frames and surprisingly comfortable mattresses. A low dresser, about hip-height, was against a side wall, opposite the desk. The walls were bare, but thankfully the stone was covered in drywall, painted a sandy brown. Ports for a DSL line sat in the wall, as did several electrical outlets. The single light was mounted in the ceiling, effectively illuminating the entire space. In the girls’ wing, Ashley’s room was first, followed by Courtney’s, then Amy, Summer, Evelyn, Megan, and Vanessa. James’ room was first on the guys’ side, followed by Trevor, Ed, Alex, Del, Nathan, Oliver, Vince, Brian, and Chester. Oliver walked over to Ed’s room, where the stocky young man was unpacking a punching bag. “Hey, my name’s Oliver. Could you give me a hand with some of my stuff?” “Sure, no prob,” said Ed, a big grin on his face. He let the bag, which he had been carrying with no difficulty, fall to the floor with enough force to shake the room. Oliver was agape. “Just how strong is this guy?” he wondered to himself. Meanwhile, Vince carried a cardboard box out into the hall, and saw Del doing the same from his room down the hall. Vince gave Del a quick nod, then turned and went back into his room. Del stood there for a moment, contemplating the significance of this action, then returned to his room. That night, the group reassembled in the dining hall, refreshed from the day’s rest. As they made their way into the large room, they sat alone or in pairs, chatting quietly. A new, long table had been set up perpendicular to the two long rows, and was covered by a crimson banner, bearing the school’s seal embossed in black. The doors at the near end of the hall parted, and in stepped Maya, the woman from earlier. She was wearing a new dress, though this one was also green. She walked in front of the long table and smiled. “Good evening, young trainers. I am pleased to introduce to you, your teachers for this year. They have been selected from around the world to provide you with the very best education. And so, I present to you, your professors!” The double doors hinged open again, and a surprisingly young man stepped through. He wore a blue suit with a yellow tie, and had long locks of green hair. As he approached the table, he waved a strand of hair from his eyes, and gave a grin. “Hello everyone,” he said in pleasant voice, “my name’s Mr. Preston. My areas of focus are history and geography, and I look forward to helping you all in this journey.” A smile crossed his handsome face again, and he took his seat behind the table, as some of the girls blushed. Next, a woman entered the room and stood before the table. She was wearing a white apron-like dress, marked with a pink pokeball design on one side, and a sallow tee-shirt underneath. Skin-tight blue stockings terminated above the knee, giving way to a pair of rosy boots. Her hair was the color of bubble gum, arranged in a series of curls, and her eyes reflected a cheery emotion. “Hey, everybody, I’m Ms. Lockhart. I’ll be your professor of Pokemon care and health. It’s great to meet everybody!” She gave a slight bow, then smiled and took her place behind the table. Another man came ambling through the doors behind the table and stood where the other professors had. He was tall and lanky, with dark hair and glasses that flashed in the firelight. He wore a white lab coat with a bluish shirt underneath, and dark green dress pants. “Good evening, young trainers,” he said in a deep, proud voice. “My name is Mr. Fisk, and my area of study is the science of Pokemon, the studies of the reactions that take place when working with these creatures. I look forward to sharing my knowledge with you.” Again the doors parted, but the man who stepped through this time was rather unlike the others. He was dressed in a black track jacket and yellowish pants. He was a massive man, well over six feet in height, with broad shoulders and a pot belly. His head was large and bald as the day he was born, sitting atop a thick neck. This man rumbled up to the front, his heavy footsteps echoing through the hall. “The name’s Ratliff,” the big man said in a deep, rough voice, “but you all can call me Coach. I’m the professor of athletics and the school’s resident Battle Specialist. I’ll make sure you all are physically ready for what you’re in for this year…” Coach Ratliff took his seat behind the banner-draped table. The history teacher, Mr. Preston, gave a sigh, and said, “It’s time you all knew the truth as to why you have been gathered here. It was not just fate, blind coincidence that brought you all together. Things are in motion that are difficult to even conceive. And you, the Class of ’06, you are the key.” -sandragon13
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Post by Pikafan on Jan 30, 2007 6:33:52 GMT -5
Dang Cliffhangers. I wanna find out what happens! xD
And whoa, holy crap, that place must be HUGE.
Really nice Chapter, Sandragon.
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Post by sandragon13 on Feb 3, 2007 11:50:04 GMT -5
Chapter 12, yes.
Chapter 12 – Through the Never
The seventeen trainers stood at rapt attention, their eyes all trained on the four adults before them. The anticipation, the expectation, all of their questions, were about to be answered. The green-haired history teacher stood and slowly walked to the front of the long table. No one said a word, the only sound Mr. Preston’s shoes as he strode to a stop. “What I am about to share with you,” he began, “is something I myself, and the other teachers, were informed of mere weeks ago. We four have sworn to use our knowledge and our talents to prepare you all for the challenge that now faces us.”
“It happened many ages ago,” he continued, “in the time before the cooperation of humans and Pokemon. The world was a vast, wild place, dotted by human settlements and wild Pokemon of all types wandered the land. Then one day, in the region of Otaru, a great fear poured fourth over the land. A mysterious Pokemon had fallen from the heavens, and before long, it began to lay waste to the earth, destroying anything in its path. The survivors of this onslaught, both human and Pokemon, mustered a final charge against the space creature, which they cornered in the Otaru Desert. Of these there were seventeen humans, refugees from the destruction, who had gathered from all reaches of the continent. Also at this decisive showdown, there were seventeen Pokemon who had survived the space monster’s ravages. These too had gathered from across the region, traversing the destroyed landscape to answer the cries of anguish that rang throughout the land. As it turned out, the Pokemon that gathered each represented one of the 17 types. These Pokemon weren’t bound to these humans, nor vice versa, but together they made a stand against this destructive force. A long and violent battle ensued, the Pokemon using their elemental skills and abilities to combat the monster, and the humans providing encouragement and battle strategies. Eventually, the space creature weakened, and it retreated back to the infinite abyss from whence it had come.”
Mr. Preston cleared his throat, and continued the story. “After the cataclysmic encounter, the exhausted Pokemon and humans celebrated with one another, their victory sparing the rest of the world the fate that Otaru had suffered. The space creature’s rampage had decimated human and Pokemon populations across the region, but had failed to eliminate all of any species. The land, and the life it supported, would eventually heal and repopulate Otaru. Through the trial that the space creature had provided, humans and Pokemon had defended their world side-by-side for the first time. This event marked the very first cooperation between humans and Pokemon. This story, however, is unknown to the world outside of the walls of this complex.” Mr. Fisk, the white-coated science teacher, stood to join the explanation. “As I’m sure you all are aware,” he said, “the societies of Pokeopolis and the like are generally thought of as the origin of Pokemon-human collaboration. This, however, is false. The information you have just received has been hidden in this structure for centuries.”
At this point James stood, and said, “Well, thanks for the history lesson, but that doesn’t explain why we’re all here right now.” “The young man has a point,” said Mr. Fisk, “so I’ll let Professor Preston finish his explanation.” “Thank you, Professor Fisk. The Headmaster of Ironspine Academy is a direct descendant of one of the seventeen humans present at that great battle. He is the last person alive with the same blood as his ancestor. The Headmaster recently sensed a presence that had not been detected for centuries: the space beast is returning to Earth to wreak its horrible vengeance. Disturbed by this sensation, he sought to gather the descendants of the Pokemon present at that battle so long ago, knowing that only they can eventually gather the strength necessary to defeat the creature. The seventeen Pokemon, one of each type, are those that you trainers carry.”
A wave of murmurs and looks of various emotions rippled through the crowd. “You seventeen, you have been code-named the Class of ’06. Your Pokemon carry within themselves a capacity of which they themselves are unaware, and fate has chosen you to accompany them. We four professors have been mustered for our abilities, our prowess in various skills, and are sworn to help you and your Pokemon hone the proficiency to defeat the space creature.” At this, Ms. Lockhart stood. “By taking in and caring for your Pokemon, you have proven your loyalty to them. They trust you, and you them, but that will not be enough to prevail over this foe. Much time and effort must be invested to strengthen mind and body, Pokemon and trainer.” Mr. Fisk came forward next. “At this time, we ask that you each stand in a line before us, and release your Pokemon. Coach Ratliff will perform a preliminary exam of your Pokemon to assure their health.”
The young trainers got their feet and assembled into a long row in front of the professors’ table. Each reached to belt clips, into bags and purses, and withdrew a crimson-and-white ball. The entire room briefly flickered a bright red as seventeen digital forms took shape on the floor. In moments, a Pokemon stood on the stone-tiled floor in front of each trainer. Coach Ratliff now stood, notepad in hand, as the other three professors looked on. The bulky man walked to the far left-hand end of the line, where Alex stood. On the ground before the confident young man was a Swinub, a furry brown Pokemon with dark stripes crossing its back, and a large, pink piglike nose. Its body hung low to the ground, and long hair covered its eyes. The Ice-type snorted, a small expulsion of snowy vapor jetting from its nose. Next to him stood Courtney, purse slung over her shoulder and a haughty expression on her face. In front of her stood a Skitty, a pink catlike Pokemon with short legs and a long bulbous tail. The Normal-type was immaculately groomed and wore the same expression as her master. “What’s her name?” asked the Coach to Courtney. “Her name’s Princess,” said Courtney, a smug smile on her lips.
Coach moved to the next student, the arrogant Trevor. Standing before him was a Sandshrew, an armadillo-like Pokemon with thick yellow plates on its back, a white underbelly and face, and large, dark eyes. It seems well-trained, thought Coach, eying the Mouse Pokemon’s small, but sharp, claws. Moving on, he stood in front of James, student and teacher’s matching hairless heads gleaming under the firelight. The trainer stood behind a Bagon, a rare Dragon-type Pokemon with a muscular blue body, smooth skin, and thick plates of bone casing the top of its head. Such a powerful Pokemon, despite its age, Coach thought. As the ponderous man moved down the line, Bagon looked back at its trainer, and each shot the other a toothy grin. Next down the line was Ashley, who had a Vulpix sitting before her. Coach extended his hand and held it palm-first a foot from the Fire-type’s body. I can feel the warmth, he thought, which means it’s in good health. The foxlike Pokemon stood and turned her head slightly, watching the large man carefully. Courtney wore a slight smile of satisfaction as Coach moved on.
Continuing down the line, Evelyn stood behind a Mareep, a sheeplike Pokemon with fluffy yellow wool covering most of its body. The Pokemon appeared to be in good spirits, waving its yellow-and-blue striped tail happily. Its face and legs were dark blue, and energetic black eyes looked back at him, as static electricity crackled in its wooly coat. Coach smiled, and moved down to Summer. Standing before the blonde-haired girl was a Krabby, a crustaceous Water-type with red shell and claws and pale yellow underside. The river crab Pokemon foamed slightly from its mouth, a common reaction by this species when in an unusual situation, and snapped its deceptively strong claws in the air. Amy was next, a vigorous Taillow standing before her. Its plumage had a helthy sheen, blue with highlights of red and white. “Tail?” asked the bird Pokemon, cocking its head slightly to one side. Next, Nathan stood behind a green Bug-type Pokemon known as a Spinarak. The spiderlike Pokemon had bands of bright yellow and black on its six legs, and its abdomen bore a facelike design on it. Coach noted the pattern’s design, resembling a smiling face, and moved on to Oliver. The young man in the ninja suit stood grinning behind a green amorphous blob, punctuated by a yellow featherlike crest. “Could you have your Gulpin open its mouth, Oliver?” asked Coach, backtracking a step. Oliver nodded to the Poison-type Pokemon, and it stretched its mouth open, gaping at least a foot from top to bottom. This Pokemon can easily enough to consume a watermelon in one swallow, thought Coach. “Very good, very good,” said the bulky professor, jotting it on his notepad before moving on.
Brian now stood, and before him, a slender Bellsprout. The grass-type swayed slightly on its willowy, rootlike legs, and tiny black eyes looked back at him. Onward down the line, he stood before Ed and his Mankey. The fighting-type monkey moved in sudden, jerky movements, breathing through its pig-like nose. Ed wore an enthusiastic expression and flashed Coach a thumbs-up. Coach looked curiously at the smiling young man, then moved on to Del. The tall, stocky trainer stood behind a Geodude. The rock-type’s body was fairly rounded, a good indication that it had had its share of battles. “Geo, geodude!” it croaked, extending its stony arms to their full span. The teacher took a note in his pad, than walked to the next student. Vince, dark hair shining in the firelight, crossed his arms. Before him was an Aron, a robust, four-legged Pokemon species bearing an armor of steel. This protective coat covered most of its body, face punctuated with electric-blue eyes. Coach was about to move on when he noticed the iron Pokemon’s right eye. This eye was bright red, but its left was the normal cobalt color. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” Coach said, “your Aron displays both normal and recessive eye color traits. Truly unique…” Vince looked down at the squat Pokemon, and thought to himself, “You have no idea.”
Third from the end stood Megan, with a small white Ralts kneeling silently before her. The Pokemon had a green, bowl-shaped structure on its head, hiding its large rosy eyes and tiny mouth. Atop its head was a pair of reddish crests that are used to detect the emotions of those around it. The psychic-type’s pallid body was very frail-looking, but Coach knew that it contained within itself a vast reservoir of psychic power. Next to her, Vanessa shyly stood. Beside her floated a Shuppet, a timid Ghost-type Pokemon that feeds on feelings of fear and anger. The Pokemon’s large expressive eyes were mirrored by her trainer, only differing in color. Finally, Coach came to Chester, standing defiantly next to the wall. At his feet was a stern looking Dark-type, a Murkrow. This species is normally sprightly and mischievous, he thought, this one, however, seems very confrontational and determination flickers in its eyes. The firelight glistened off of its dusky feathers, as it stared sharply at the teacher. “Interesting…” was all Coach Ratliff could say, before turning towards the other professors while jotting a few notes. The winged Pokemon continued to stare at the bald man as he walked away, an intense glare for seemingly no reason.
“The examination is complete,” noted Coach as he closed his notebook. “Your classes will begin on Wednesday, the day after tomorrow. Your day will begin with History, followed by Science, Health, and conclude with Battle Training. Dinner will now be served, for both you and your Pokemon. I’m sure you all are hungry after the long journey you’ve had.”
The trainers and their Pokemon ate their meals, some more enthusiastically than others. The topic on everyone’s minds, however, was the information they had just received. How could they are responsible for saving the world from some sort of horror from beyond the stars? It was almost too much to comprehend. The amount of training…the dedication this must include…it was much bigger than any of the trainers had imagined. The journey, they realized, had only just begun.
-sandragon13
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Post by sandragon13 on Feb 10, 2007 21:55:27 GMT -5
Glad to see a lot of responses Here's chapter 13, if anybody reads it. Chapter 13 – Lucky Stars Two mornings after the introductory dinner, the trainers set off to their first class at Ironspine Academy. Mr. Preston’s classroom door was ajar, students trickling through and taking a seat in the beige-tinted room. The room, as with every other in the complex, lacked windows to the outside, but light not unlike that of sunlight shone from the lamps above. The floor was of sheets of tan stone, the desks arranged in five rows of five. At the front of the room was a marker-board with several pull-down style maps mounted above, looming behind a wooden desk. In all respects it resembled an ordinary history classroom, no different than one that they might have sat in last year. The door opened, and in stepped the handsome green-haired professor, adjusting his yellow tie as he strode to the chair behind his desk. “Good morning, class,” said Mr. Preston, standing before the assembled trainers. “Let’s start things off easy. How many of you know about the continent of Otaru? From what I understand, none of you are natives to this region.” Summer raised her hand. “I’ve been here once before, with my brothers. They were entered in a contest and surfed off the north coast, some beach town. I don’t remember the name of the place, but the waves…they were perfect…” “The Flawless Coast,” said the professor, motioning toward a map of the continent. “The Northeastern shore of Otaru is known for its beautiful beaches and resounding wave patterns. It is truly a place of unrivaled beauty for someone of your brothers’ trade, Summer.” “Otaru is an amazing place from a geographic standpoint, with mountains, beaches, plains, plateaus, and deserts, not to mention the cities and towns. The area we must familiarize ourselves with most thoroughly, however, is this,” sweeping his pointer in a wide circle around a yellowish area in the center of the map. “You see, this entire area is known as the Otaru Desert. It is a vast, desolate region, protected from rains by the twin ridges of mountains that surround it. It is here,” motioning to a point near the western fringe of the desert, “where we now sit, the location of this Academy. The last Headmaster, the current Headmaster’s father, established this place as a prestigious Pokemon academy where all the finest aspects of education could be instilled in the youth of Otaru. He also built it, in secret, to cater to the needs of the group of Pokemon and trainers that could defeat the space monster, should it ever return to Otaru. Now that time is upon us, and his son has assumed the responsibility of defending the world again.” “So,” said James, without raising his hand. “You’re telling us that we’ve been gathered, from all around the world, to this school, where you and some other teachers will give us the skills we need to defeat some space monster?” “It’s not as simple as it sounds, James,” said Professor Preston, walking back to the board. “This creature is a being that has been wandering the cosmos for, as far as we know, millennia. It is not tethered by the bounds of power that exist here in this world. Your Pokemon partners, they hold within themselves a shard of the energy possessed by their ancestors, the only force that can repel the space monster. How to harness that power, however, is what you and your Pokemon are here to learn.” Later in the morning, the trainers moved en masse to the science classrooms in the western wing of the complex. Entering through the double doors that hinged open with a sigh, they took their seats on stools behind gleaming black table surfaces. The walls were a sterile gray, impassive and uniform, while the ceiling above was a tangle of piping, wires, and metal beams. The tables were arranged in a circular pattern around a wide, round central surface, about 10 feet in diameter. Built into one wall was a small room, fully visible through thick panes of plastic, and sealed by a metal door. Nathan’s eyes flashed excitedly as he entered the modern-looking lab, glancing from one end of the room to another. “It’s the ideal lab setup…” he thought to himself, taking a seat near the front. Mr. Fisk, the science professor, sat at a desk in one corner, behind a computer. The lanky man stood and took his place at the front of the room, before a double-paneled marker-board. “Good morning, Class of ’06. The world of Pokemon is filled with complex reactions. Some of these you may already be aware of, but others have effects beyond the visible world, outside of the scope of a trainer’s perception. In order to become a truly potent force, one that is capable of repelling this extraterrestrial threat, you each must first understand the science behind your Pokemon and their attacks. For example, have you ever wondered how a Fire Pokemon generates the fire for its attacks? Or how the energy of an Electric-type is amassed, concentrated, and released? These are questions that are vital to your true understanding of your Pokemon partners. In science, as in Pokemon battling, nothing can be left to chance.” After a midday lunch break, the group moved upstairs once more to Ms. Lockhart’s classroom, opposite the science wing. This room was brightly lit, with blue-green linoleum covering the floor. Desks were arranged in an arc, curving in around in front of the whiteboard. The wall on the right had a set of double doors, and a stretcher of some kind stood beside them. Ms. Lockhart stood before the board, smiling as the trainers found their seats. After everyone was seated, the pink-haired professor began to speak. “Welcome to Pokemon Care and Health, everybody!” she said in a cheery voice. “In this class, you will learn how to properly care for your Pokemon. This is as vital a skill as any you will learn here, because just as with a human being, a Pokemon is a living, breathing organism. It is not just a machine for battle; rather, it is a friend, something that must be taken care of. Over the course of this term I’ll show you how to groom your Pokemon, how to heal them from injury, and, perhaps most importantly, how to read your Pokemon’s emotions. Since your Pokemon can’t speak to you directly, it is key that you be able to tell what your partner is trying to impart to you. For you trainers, you will also learn to keep your emotions in check in any situation, an imperative skill for battle or any emergency situation that you may find yourself in.” “I am also the academy’s head Pokemon nurse, so if anything appears to be wrong with your Pokemon, come see me and we’ll get it straightened out. The adjoining room is a fully-stocked infirmary, where my Pokemon and I are on call around the clock. This task that you all must undertake…it is truly an honor to offer my services to help this cause.” The final class of the schedule, Battle Practice, is held near the battlefields on the ground floor of the complex. The trainers walked into the large room, desks attached to the stadium-style seating. The room appeared to be one of the complex’s battle arenas, the high ceiling dotted with lights, and loudspeakers affixed to the walls. The floor before them was an official-size Pokemon battlefield, complete with elevated trainer boxes. A wheeled chalkboard stood before the seats, the faded remnants of X’s, O’s, and arrows still visible. A door on the far end hinged open with a squeak, and in stepped Coach Ratliff, the big man ducking his head slightly to get through the frame. He made his way across the room, cutting across the battlefield as he did so. Finally he stood in front of the assembled trainers, a clipboard in hand. “Seventeen types,” he began, his gruff voice echoing in the cavernous room, “the full spectrum of Pokemon. I understand that each of your Pokemon partners are the representatives of their type, the group that, once united, refined, and purified, can defeat this space menace. Each of you before me today, you may come in here thinking yourselves to be strong trainers, foolhardy enough to believe that to be true. In your current states, you lot wouldn’t stand half a chance against this monster. Therefore, trainer and Pokemon must work, must push the boundaries of their skills and abilities to the limit and beyond. Under my tutelage you will grow into powerful trainers, utilizing your Pokemon’s individual skills while protecting its weaknesses. Through intensive battle training against myself and each other in a wide variety of environments and situations, you will each learn the three most important concepts of Pokemon battling: Prediction, Knowledge, and Versatility. Once you have mastered these three virtues, you will be ready to combat the space beast.” High above the battle arena, in a room shielded from sight by tinted glass, a lone figure stood, watching Coach Ratliff deliver his opening message. The seventeen young trainers sat, in various stages of attention, watching him speak. Braziers of fire mounted on the walls flickered around the room, as the figure stood in silence, watching and thinking. “I can only hope they take this seriously…we must do all that we can to ensure the success of this mission. The fate of the world lies in their hands, whether they realize it or not.” -sandragon13
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Post by Pikafan on Feb 10, 2007 22:28:13 GMT -5
I thought I posted for Chapter 12?
Anyways, 12 was good, and I'll read 13 tomorrow.
Dang you sandragon and your cliffhangers! xD
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Post by sandragon13 on Feb 20, 2007 23:25:33 GMT -5
For Chapter 14, I tried something new. It's a mini chapter, giving a peek into the pasts of various characters...a hint of their backgrounds, who they are and how they came to be as they now are. The story will begin in earnest again hopefully next week.
Chapter 14 – Innervision [Sacred Silence]
Tiny waves capped with lines of foam lapped gently on the golden shore. The sun beamed down from its vantage point high in the perfectly azure sky. Summer looked around her; from where she sat she could see miles of empty beach, to her back, a thick tropical jungle. Mere feet from her chair lay an endless expanse of softly flowing water. To her side, Flow sat in the sand, one claw on a drink in a coconut shell. The beat of the waves quietly breaking on the smooth sand matched her own heartbeat, as she gazed out over the sea at the hazy horizon. She could feel the warmth of the sun on her skin, the sand between her toes, the familiar taste of salt in her mouth. “It’s so beautiful..,” she thought , “so perfect.” A Wingull flew overhead, squawking loudly, and suddenly the beach faded to black. Summer groggily opened her eyes, trying to make sense of what had just happened. She could see only darkness for a time, but as her eyes adjusted, she realized that she was still in her room, at the Academy. The still-foreign shapes of the desk, the furniture, and the closets took form around her, confirming her realization. “It was all a dream…” she lamented to herself, “but it was all so real…” She glanced over towards the water-filled, sand-bottomed tub in the corner, where Flow was sleeping soundly. The Krabby produced little bubbles from his mouth with each slow breath, his pincers on the sand before him. Across the room, the digital blue numbers glowed 2:05. The blond-haired girl took one more look at the sleeping river crab Pokemon and rolled over, hoping to return once more to the perfect beach before it vanished again.
Alex stood atop the tallest peak in Johto, the blizzard swirling around him. He had never felt this exhilarated, all of winter’s wrath surrounding him in an icy cloak. Long since used to the cold, the frigid temperatures failed to reach him. Wind screamed in his ear, the vortex of white obscuring the gray abyss below the verge. Nothing now stood in his way, no-one could stop him from reaching his destiny. With one final, defiant look out into the miasma of silver and white, he stepped onto his board and dropped over the edge. The boy awoke with a start, rolling onto his back and snapping his eyes open. He could swear that he had actually hit the bed as he awoke, the sensation of falling still fresh in his mind. The dark room gradually came into view, his prized snowboard leaning casually in the corner. Gone was the icy breath of the mountain, searing his nostrils with flavorless essences. Snow no longer spiraled around him, cloaking the steely sky with pure white. The young man adjusted his pillow, closing his eyes again. “Someday,” he thought to himself, “someday.”
The reddish autumn sunlight filtered through the wood-slat window, spilling onto the temple floor before him. Through the wide-open doors, dried leaves of brown and crimson rustled in the mild breeze, scraping on the floor as they aimlessly danced. As the rattling leaves spun in spirals on the floor, the wispy chimes outside rang their peal. Inside the pagoda, a young boy sat cross-legged, silent as the whispering wind. His breathing was slow and light, arms extended to his sides, eyes closed in concentration. Beside him, a small, youthful Bellsprout sat in a similar position, eyes closed in a peaceful fashion. A gust of wind made its way softly through the airy temple, rustling the boy’s green hair and shifting the leaves that scattered on the floor. No bird nor beast made a sound, the utter serenity of the temple is all that Brian desired. Here, removed from the perpetual noise of the city, in the trees and the sun. The natural world wrapped itself around him, all he was, is, and will be. He was home.
Rain, steely gray and icy cold, poured from the cloudy night sky. Cars and trucks roared by in the street, hissing as the water sprayed from their tires. In an alley near the sea, a young man crouched, ducking under a building’s tiny overhang, grateful for the relief that it offered. His clothes were soaked, and the coppery taste of blood tainted his mouth. Everything seemed to exist in shades of gray, especially in this town, in the rain. The sea, rough and pitching, rocked as the storm flowed eastward over the city. Beyond the harbor he could faintly see the Lighthouse, the beacon blinking feebly in the bad weather. The kid glanced up at the emotionless sky with anger, combing his hand through his black hair. “I shouldn’t have trusted them,” he thought to himself grudgingly, feeling the rainwater soak into his boots. “You’d think that I’d have learned that by now.” Pulling his duct tape-patched backpack from his shoulder, he unzipped it and glanced inside. His whole life was in there; a CD player, a handful of crumpled papers, and a single pokeball. Resting inside of that ball, Vince knew, was his one true friend in the world. Chrome, he had decided to call the misfit Aron, was just like him. They were both outcasts, forced into this unforgiving world. With one last look behind him, he darted back out from under the overhang and into the storm.
Nathan looked into the mirror, eying the unruly strands of blue hair that dangled onto his forehead. The young man’s glasses gleamed in the bathroom lights as the water dripped from his neatly-combed hair. In the upper corner of the bathroom, Arich clung to the ceiling, watching his master’s preparations. The Spinarak followed the young man back out into the bedroom, walking effortlessly on the ceiling. A wall-mounted bookshelf was stocked with books and manuals of all kinds and dimensions, and the desk in the corner held a modern-looking computer. On the wall hung a chart showing the strengths and weaknesses of the various Pokemon types, which Nathan had long since memorized. Downstairs, he could hear his parents, both scientists with Johtotronics, preparing to leave for work. Nathan buttoned his last shirt button, hoping that after school today he could finish his research on Metapod shells. The warm climate of Azalea Town and proximity to Azalea Forest only bolstered his passion for Bug Pokemon. The recent news of new Pokemon species discovered in the wilds of the various regions sent chills of excitement down his spine. The gangly young man bent to tie his shoe, cursing his lanky frame. Outside his window, his parents’ car pulled out into the street, on its way to the rail station, and the shuttle to Goldenrod. A swarm of Ledyba fluttered by, riding the morning winds and soaking in the sunrise. In its midst, he noted the presence of a rusty gold-colored individual, obscured by the bodies of its crimson-shelled brethren. Nathan, excited as he was by this sight, extracted an ever-present notebook from his backpack. He jotted down his observation, then replaced it in his bag and made his way downstairs, Arich traversing the wall by his side.
In her chambers, Megan was having a hard time falling asleep. She sat upright, crosswise on her bed, back against the cool wall. Mary kneeled next to her, quietly watching her. The Ralts recognized the situation; it was not the first time her trainer had had a psychic flare. On the desk opposite the bed, a spoon sat, contorted into a painful-looking spiral, the result of Megan’s first expulsion of psychic energy. She had been 8 years old then, still a young girl with dark hair and purple eyes. She had never revealed her abilities to her parents, even though she could now control them the majority of the time. As she grew, Megan had taught herself to move and alter small objects with her thoughts, an ability that was both augmented and perfected with Mary’s presence. The two psychics now share a soul link, found commonly in trainers of psychic Pokemon, but rarely without professional training. “Well, Mary,” Megan said, stretching her legs and looking down at her purple-and-black socks. “You know what to do.” The Ralts nodded, and hopped down from the bed, landing gently on the floor. The feeling Pokemon made its way over to a bag on the floor, and removed a single piece of metal cutlery. “Just one spoon?” said Megan gently, mock exasperation hinting her voice. Mary looked up at the girl, red eyes winking from behind her green crest as she smiled. “Alright, if you say so,” said Megan, focusing her mind on the silverware that lay on the floor. Moments later, the piece of cutlery rose silently from the ground, a faintly violet glow radiating from it. Slowly the piece bent forwards, backwards, and to either side, all the while hovering unsupported in the air. After a minute or so, Megan could feel herself beginning to weaken, the energy output required to use her abilities taking its toll on her body. Finally she laid her head onto her pillow, barely making it under her blankets before succumbing to sleep. Mary, eyes glowing blue, caught the knotted spoon and gently returned it to the backpack on the ground. The small white Pokemon climbed back into the bed and nestled next to her trainer, shutting her eyes and drifting off to sleep.
Outside the two dormitory wings, a pair of muscular Houndoom vigilantly patrolled the dark, silent halls. Deep within the heart of the complex, a lone figure sat before a computer screen, watching data streams reflecting in real-time from orbiting satellites. Dark eyes reflecting the bluish glow of the screen, focused on a green dot that had begun to blink on the edge of the satellite’s vision. “Finally, visual proof of my worst fear, my dream, my destiny…” A countdown of hours, days, weeks, and months had begun, ticking away in this silent room. -sandragon13
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Post by Pikafan on Feb 26, 2007 15:10:22 GMT -5
That last paragraph scares me a little bit. I'm scared.
And this is a mini-chapter? Seems pretty long to me.
Maybe you should print out these pages and make it into a book.
I think I'll do that myself, I want to see how big it would be.
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Post by sandragon13 on Feb 26, 2007 16:42:20 GMT -5
After I release the 15th chapter, I'll transfer all of the ones that have been released to one Word document to see how long is it. -sandragon13
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