Let the Tournament Begin
Legend of the Crimson Lucario
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon. Only the idea and OC's.
Author Notes:
-- This will be used for scene breaks and for when the story switches to another character, but it does not mean that a new section of the story has started.
xXx This will identify where each paragraph breaks.
'Poketalk'
(Character Thoughts)
Disclaimer: Don't own Pokemon, never have, never will. Only the idea and OCs behind the story are mine
Beta reader: Catsithx
xXx
Chapter 6: Let the Tournament Begin
The next few days provided little chance for Hellstorm to look around. Sir Gallahad was almost always keeping an eye on him Ruby in some way or another making it impossible for Hellstorm to explore the castle. Hellstorm however wouldn't say anything because right now, Gallahad had the advantage being a castle guard. Many people began to arrive at the castle including some higher ranking people from neighboring kingdoms.
Many people came to the castle bearing armor and foreign emblems, all of which wanting to become a knight or just grab that big bag of gold that was the prize money. Many trainers also came forth and even a few breeders who thought that their Pokemon would make an excellent guard. Everyone who came to castle came for one reason, the upcoming tournament. Time seemed to pass quickly at castle now that everyone was there. The castle was full with people and the stables were filled with Pokemon. A few for their Pokemon and share a room with them much like how Ruby shared a room with Hellstorm.
Finally, after days of waiting, the tournament would begin. The arena was set up on the edge of the castle. The large open area had a moat around its outer most edge; several large stones placed randomly around the arena, and had large very thick stone walls that served to keep damage to a minimum. As an added precaution, the mages were all instructed to place a powerful barrier around the arena to deal with any stray attacks the Pokemon might use.
Everything was in place. "The first match starts at noon today. You'll be in the second match facing off against one of Lunastrain trainers." Ruby informed Hellstorm as they walked to the arena. "I assume you won't need a human partner to keep an eye on things for you."
"No, I do not believe that will be necessary." Hellstorm replied as he walked alongside Ruby to the combatants waiting area.
There were many Pokemon with trainers there all waiting to prove themselves in combat.
'I can't wait to test my skills in combat.' A large Nidoking said as Hellstorm took a seat by himself in the corner of the ring.
Almost everyone here was raised for combat and a few were barking threats at each other all waiting for a chance to show off their skills.
"I'll be watching your match the most. I can't wait to see how good you are." Ruby said as she turned to leave.
Many trainers just eyed Hellstorm. "What's this thing over here?" One, young male asked.
"No way is he here to compete. He doesn't even have a trainer to tell him how to fight." A second one, this time female commented.
"I need no trainer. I can think on my own." Hellstorm replied.
"Hold on, look at the collar. How many people use the sapphire in collars?" The rest of the trainers looked toward the voice. An older male dressed in black down with a Nidoking on his left and a female Lucario on his right. "If I had to guess, this one was trained by Hellstorm. He's the only one I can think of who uses sapphires for anything bigger then a ring without using some sort of insignia considering how rare they are."
A man walked in and called out the name "Hector, get ready." The older male realized he was being called and led the large purple Nidoking out into the arena. As he left, the female Lucario walked up to Hellstorm.
'The unmarked sapphire is the symbol Hellstorm. Were you really trained by him?' The female Lucario had a large jade color around her neck showing that she was a pet and not a fighter.
'Yes I was. I assume you are here for support or something seeing that collar around your neck.' Hellstorm replied.
'My master brought me here for my skill in medicine. I'm here to make sure his Pokemon stay healthy.' She told him.
'It's not a common thing for Pokemon to go into medicine in this time.' Hellstorm commented.
'My master is kind to me. He saw I had a natural talent with mixing herbs and salves and he helped me increase my knowledge.' She explained. 'You seem really nice. My name's Imoen.'
'My name is Varwaz. It's good to see that there are more then just a few select individuals who see our kind as more then beasts.' Hellstorm looked back to the door just in time to se the older male trainer walk back in with the Nidoking. The Nidoking had some bloody knuckles, but other then that, it did not seem to be hurt.
'Excuse me for minute.' Imoen walked over to the Nidoking and her master.
"I see you've been trying to make a new friend." The older male said. "So, if my guess in right you've trained with the one called Hellstorm."
"That I have. He trained me and taught me a few moves he developed himself." Hellstorm answered. "Now if you'll excuse me, I was informed that I'd be in the second battle."
Hellstorm was now able to get a good look at the man and judging by his worn cloak, he was not born into a wealthy family. He wore a black worn cloak used for traveling, and had a simple shirt and black pants. He must not have spent much time in towns because his hair was quite messy and he had started to grow a light beard. Imoen nodded her head at her master's comment about making friends.
The same man as before who called the first trainer now called out the name "Varwaz, get ready."
"I'll be back shortly." Hellstorm walked forward. He didn't know what to expect, but there were only a few things that could down him easily and he could more then defend himself against most other attacks.
Hellstorm had left his cloak behind, as he would not need for the match. He walked into the open arena across a small wooden bridge that extended over the moat around the arena. The stands were full and Hellstorm could easily see Ruby. She had taken a seat with her parents in a private section of the arena that had its own cover.
Hellstorm walked forward his eyes locked on the other gate. Slowly the door opened as a woman wearing the crest of the Lunastrain walked out. The crest was an emblem of a silver moon lying on top of large red kite shield. Right beside her was her Pokemon, a canine that stood over six feet even on all fours. It had a very bright and brilliant fur, even for an Arcanine.
(An Arcanine, this should prove too interesting.) Hellstorm moved to the center of the arena. He knew that he had some advantages as well disadvantages to not having a trainer with him. The only disadvantage he saw was the fact the opposing Pokemon has a second set of eyes that he did not. However, he could think on his own and could choose his own attacks and not have some trainer shout them out to him which meant that his opponent would only have a few seconds to determine his attacks. At the same time, he could over hear what attacks the trainer would call and prepare to counter them as they were called.
As Hellstorm made his way to the center of the arena, so did the Arcanine he would be facing.
'Hey, I hope you didn't come here to win.' The Arcanine said as they met in the middle of the arena, each one waiting for the signal to start the battle. 'There has been one of you Lucarios yet that hasn't fallen to my attacks.'
'Unlike others of my kind, fire won't take me down easily.' Hellstorm looked up at the Pokemon before which stood well over a foot taller then he did.
'I'll make this fast as long as you go down quietly.' The Arcanine smirked.
"Begin." King Mark shouted. Hellstorm took off fast; a foe of this size would not be easy to take down.
"Flame Wheel." The female trainer shouted and almost as if this attack had been planned by the both of them, Arcanine was instantly on fire and rolling along the ground. The large flaming wheel headed for Hellstorm who defiantly stood his ground.
Hellstorm knew his strength and natural impact abilities could help him here as he threw his left out to his right as he prepared to swat the powerful fire type off course and possibly into the water. Hellstorm swung his arm at high speeds just before impact and slammed the back of his paw into the flaming disc that would have crushed him sending his attacker off into the air at an odd angle. It was thanks to his impact abilities that he was able to pull this stunt off. A power that he mastered shortly after coming to this time amplified the amount of impact damage he dealt when fighting. The final result was a greatly increased amount of force that knocked him back.
The Arcanine did not seem to be affected by the attack and landed smoothly only to continue his attack although he did have to adjust his course slightly to avoid one of the boulders that had been placed around the course. Hellstorm dashed behind a boulder as the Arcanine came back around.
The trainer who was with the Arcanine smiled thinking this would be a quick match, but was glad that it was not. Most of her foes before now had been weak and slow, that was the reason she joined up in the tournament.
Hellstorm hid behind the boulder as the Arcanine went to make a third pass, but just as it was going to pass the boulder Hellstorm was hiding behind, Hellstorm thrust the boulder into the Arcanine's path with a force palm. The Arcanine swerved to get out of the way, but in the process, he ran into another boulder with a loud bang as the boulder crumbled under the force of the attack.
'Why you little.' The Arcanine shook off his dizziness quickly as Hellstorm went to charge in.
"Inferno." The trainer shouted. Arcanine wasted no time and quickly drew in a very deep breath. Hellstorm was quickly moving in, but he was still not fast enough. The Arcanine began to exhale, the deep red and yellow of blazing came from the back of his throat. In less then a second, everything in front of the Arcanine and a bit to his sides were all lit up in a brilliant blaze of reds, yellows, and oranges. The attack lasted several seconds and everyone was ready to call the match. The flames died down revealing the blackened ground and boulders, but also showing one other thing.
In the middle of the large patch of scorched dirt was Hellstorm. He was kneeling down on his left knee using his right arm to support himself. His fur was slightly singed, but nothing serious. Everyone looked on in surprise as Hellstorm got up and dusted off as much of the blacked ash as he could.
'What the heck? No way, none of your kind could survive that attack.' The Arcanine snapped bearing its teeth showing just how unhappy it was by the fact that his foe still stood.
'I told you fire won't affect me like it does the others of my kind.' Hellstorm dusted the last of the ash he could off of himself as he prepared to charge his foe.
Everyone in the stands was surprised by the turn out of the attack as they thought it was over. Hellstorm was not used to the crowds cheering he was getting and just pushed it all out of his mind. He charged forward, his fists tightly clenched as he prepared for the next attack.
The Arcanine moved in quickly and being slightly faster then Hellstorm had a slight advantage. Hellstorm however was very resistant to his foes elemental attacks that would limit the moves used effectively against him.
"Take down." The female trainer called out trying to find some way to deal damage to Hellstorm.
Both combatants moved quickly toward one another, the Arcanine's anger was starting to get the better of him. Never before had any opponent shaken off his strongest fire attack like it did very little damage if any at all. He ignored his masters command went into another Fire Spin attack, only this one was much stronger then before leaving the lightly trail of cinders as it went along. Hellstorm jumped over the enrage Arcanine and fired a pair of Aura Spheres straight into the path of the Arcanine creating a small crater. While it wasn't very deep or large in size, it was still enough to disrupt the attack and sent the Arcanine air borne.
Hellstorm landed and very quickly turned to plan an interception course with the Arcanine. Hellstorm jumped into the path of the Arcanine as he once again summoned forth a pair of Aura spheres. Much to Hellstorm's surprise, the Arcanine stopped his Flame Wheel mid flight and countered Hellstorm with a Fire Blast attack. The five pointed star like fire attack struck Hellstorm head on and knocked him back towards the watery edge of the arena. Hellstorm was lying flat on his back, the tips of his dreadlocks just barely touching the water.
(I've got to give him more credit. Those fire type attacks of his do more then just fire damage.) Hellstorm jumped to feet as the Arcanine dashed in quickly on his right. Hellstorm ran toward his foe and jumped over him at the second. He grabbed the Arcanine's tail as he flew over him and quickly jerked his arm up, although it did cause him to pop his shoulder and almost dislocate it. The Arcanine was caught off guard by the sudden change of direction as he quickly found flying out of control into the air after having almost lost his tail in the attack. Hellstorm launched one Aura Sphere right after another with his good arm, but none of them were aimed directly at the Arcanine. Instead, the Aura Spheres formed a ring of nine around the helpless Pokemon as it started its rapid decent. A small ring of aura energy seemed to form connecting all nine the Aura Spheres to each other.
The Arcanine managed to regain control of himself and had a somewhat decent landing with all nine of the Aura Spheres still circling him. He quickly picked himself up, but it was too late. In a last ditch effort, he mustered up the most energy he could and fired one last attack at Hellstorm. A wave of fire engulfed half of the arena as Hellstorm quickly ducked for cover. All nine of the Aura Spheres around the Arcanine forcefully collided with it at the same time ending the barrage of fire, but Hellstorm was unable to find cover for the time the flames had engulfed the field. His fur was burnt a long with most of the arena.
(I've forgotten how hard a battle is without my demon arts and magic. Perhaps I've relied on them too long.) Hellstorm was able to stand, but was still a bit shaky. He quite whispered a very simple and light healing under his breath that would give him energy and take away the pain, but it did little for his fur. He would need a long bath to deal with that problem. He looked up to see just how bad the Arcanine was as the smoke slowly cleared around the area. The Arcanine was still standing but was in worse shape then Hellstorm.
'I've really got to give you more credit that what I thought you deserved.' Hellstorm shouted.
'You ass. I'll make you pay for this.' The Arcanine quickly recovered himself and charged, his fangs showing as they were light up by the fire building in his throat.
Hellstorm cursed at his luck. If he was going to end this quickly, he had to use one of his more powerful moves. Hellstorm quickly drew in energy into his right arm as a dark aura appeared around body. He ran forward to meet the Arcanine for one last attack. The Arcanine released his Inferno attack once again as Hellstorm used his Black Palm attack right in the Arcanine's face. The Arcanine flew back with a black scar on his face.
"I've relied on my demon arts and magic too much." Hellstorm whispered to himself as the King called the match.
"Varwaz wins." The king shouted for all to hear. There was no way the Arcanine was getting back up, but it was still a close match. Hellstorm would have to spend some time practicing his moves before the next match to avoid a repeat of this match.
Hellstorm made his way back to the combatants resting area. Imoen saw Hellstorm and ran over to him.
'That must have hurt. What were you fighting?' She asked as her master walked up to him.
"That last move of yours was a quite impressive." Hector said as he stood up. Hellstorm took the same seat he had before. All Hellstorm had to do now was wait for the day's competitions to end. "Can we talk in private for a few? I have something I need to tell you."
"What is it?" Hellstorm asked.
"Let's just say we have more in common then you think." Hector moved toward a table against the far as if getting a drink of water from the many cups that were laid there. Hellstorm's curiosity got the better of him and he walked to the same table.
"I'm impressed that you managed to beat him without your demon arts." Hector stated just loud enough for Hellstorm to hear. "In our time, you had no choice but to rely on them."
"Who are you?" Hellstorm asked quietly as not to draw attention.
"You weren't the only pulled from our time... Hellstorm." Hector replied. "We can talk more after the matches. I assume that you can get us a private room seeing as how you seem to have some sort of connection with the princess."
"We'll talk once we get out of here." Hellstorm turned to leave and quickly took note of all of the other Pokemon and humans. He did not want word to get out that he was Hellstorm.
As Hellstorm took his seat, Imoen came over to join him. 'Are you okay? That last battle looked like it hurt. Let me take a look.' Imoen went to reach her arm toward Hellstorm, but he raised his paw to stop hers.
'Why have you taken such a liking to me?' Hellstorm asked.
'Because you look nice. There aren't that many Lucario around here, so I try to get to know one whenever and where I can.' Imoen replied.
'Has your master said anything about me?' Hellstorm put his paw back down.
'He said that you were very unique, one of a kind. I can see why with that stone in your head.' Imoen explained. 'He also said that you were very powerful and that he had hopes of traveling with you if you were the one he was looking for.'
'How long have you been traveling with him?' Hellstorm asked as Imoen once again stretched her arm out to try and inspect Hellstorm's burnt fur.
'I've been traveling with him since I hatched. Hector found my egg lying in a small cave, but my parents were no where to be seen. He came into the cave looking for shelter from the storm that night.' Imoen slowly looked through Hellstorm's burnt fur. 'I hatched shortly after he arrived. I could feel his kind presence before I hatched, but only his. After I hatched, he stayed there with me for a few days, but my parents never returned, so he took me with him.' Imoen was surprised by how few actual burns there were on Hellstorm. 'The two real things I've noticed about him is that he always seems to be searching for someone and that he seems to be able to go on forever as if he rarely needs sleep and even when he does sleep, its never for long.' Imoen finished her short story.
'I see, but about how long have you been traveling with him. How many years?' Hellstorm asked again hoping to get an idea how long Hector would have been stuck here before Hector met with him.
'I'd have to say about nine years.' Imoen answered him. 'I've never seen so little damage from a fire attack like that done to our kind. We have a natural weakness to fire.'
'Like your master said, I'm far from normal.' Hellstorm looked over at Hector who was peacefully looking at the next match. If what Hector had said was true, then it is possible that a demon may have followed him through time and that would put everyone's life in danger.
The rest of the day passed quickly. Most of the Pokemon that went into the arena returned, but a few were unable to continue.
The rules for this tournament were unlike most because the King and Queen were looking for those best suited to the job and not the strongest. Because of this, any Pokemon that could continue to battle the next day was to come back and fight the next day. There would be a full week of battles, a total of seven battles for each combatant that was able to continue. Then at the end of the seven days, the King and Queen would consult with their lead guards and then pick a number of those that would do the best at the guarding the castle. In the end, it was all about style, skills, smarts, and overall performance that would secure a Pokemon's position as a castle guard. Power did mean a lot here, but only if the Pokemon in question made the best use of it and followed commands as given.
Imoen made a few attempts at small talk with Hellstorm, but he did not seem very interested in small talk. Still, she tried to get to know Hellstorm in any way she could. As the day drew to a close and the mages were force to light up the arena, the battles were called to an end for the day. Out of the several hundred Pokémon that came to compete, only ninety-eight were able to continue. A Nidoqueen had broken a leg in the first round but did not stop trying to perform its best for its master and thus, almost killed itself. The second one that was unable to continue battling was a Golem because its master was called back to his homeland to deal with a sudden uprising of bandits. The King made a kind speech thanking everyone for coming and hoped to see many more good battles over the next few days. Ruby was quick to meet back up with Hellstorm after the King and Queen returned to the castle.
"That was amazing. I thought that inferno attack would have taken you out." Ruby cheered.
"I need a room to speak with this man in private." Hellstorm explained not caring for the praise he was being given.
"Very well. Come with me. I'll take you to the Royal Library." Ruby was slightly confused.
Ruby led Hellstorm, Imoen, Hector, and his Nidoking deep into the castle, down halls that had only torches hung on them. This was obviously not a highly used area as the walls were so plain. For that matter, very few probably ever came back this way. Ruby stopped before a large set of wooden doors. She pushed on them and they creaked as they opened. Once again, they failed to notice the extra set of eyes that had followed them oh so stealthily.
Bookshelf upon bookshelf filled the room all lined up against walls. Several undecorated chairs with simple cushions and empty tabled filled the center of the room. A slight layer of dust had built up on the tables and chairs, but there was no such dust, not even the tiniest spec on any of the books that filled this room. All the books were in very good condition no matter how old or new the books were. In one of the corners near the door was a large stack of books that been put aside for Ruby. These were the books she requested before finding out that that she had been called back home to watch the tournaments that were now taking place.
"You can talk here while I do some reading." Ruby walked over to the pile of books and grabbed a large collection before heading over to a table. Ruby tapped the table twice and the very small whirlwind gathered the dust all at the center of the table. "I do love these tables." Ruby tapped a chair as the dust was quickly cleared off the chair.
"How do you know me?" Hellstorm turned toward Hector as he quickly summoned forth a Crimson Aura Sphere in his paw and pointed it right at Hector. His Nidoking stepped between them ready to fight.
'Back off.' The Nidoking warned Hellstorm.
"Stand down. He has every right to question me like given the circumstances." Hector told his Nidoking. Nidoking was not very happy to do so, but he moved aside. "That day the demon attacked our pack, I was also thrown threw time. My real name is Hector."
"Hector?! You've certainly grown up." Hellstorm lowered his arm, but did not dismiss his Aura Sphere.
"I've been in this time for about twelve years. Of course I grew some. I heard rumors of Hellstorm in this kingdom and just had to come and see for myself. I see you still have that watch Julian gave you." Hector looked at Hellstorm's wrist.
"How did you survive?" Hellstorm asked.
"It wasn't easy. Most of my arm here is made of magic." Hector held up his left arm as it now rippled with magic. "I was lucky I landed where I did. A kind group of farmers cared for until I was able to get back on my feet. I cast a spell on their land making it very rich increasing the crops they grew in return for saving my life." Hector explained.
"You're from the same time as Hellstorm?" Ruby asked sharing the same confused expression as Imoen.
'Huh, wait. I don't get this.' Imoen complained.
"Fine, if you really from my time and pack, answer me this. Who was my greatest friend and mate to be?" Hellstorm asked.
"Sora, that vampire you saved from the mutant Leafeon on your first trip to the coast, roughly... three, maybe four years before the attack." Hector answered unsure about the time line.
"It was three years before the attack." Hellstorm dismissed his Aura Sphere and bowed his head. "Forgive my aggression."
"All is fine. We're just lucky to have found each other." Hector gave his forgiveness knowing that this meeting was risky. "Anyway, I was hoping that you might be able help me find a way back to our time. This world may be nice, but I can't get used to it. It's far too different."
"Hold on, you two are from the same pack. I thought Hellstorm came back alone." Ruby stood up and left four open books on the table.
'Hector, what's this all about? You're scaring me a bit.' Imoen walked over to her master.
"Everything will be alright Imoen. I'm still me; I'm just talking with an old friend. I have no doubt that you have noticed my strange habits like getting very little sleep and always seeming to have lots of energy not to mention my hate for the cold." Hector explained looking down kindly at his Lucario. He stroked her head slowly showing that everything was aright.
"I found the gates of time, but the master of said gate refuse to let me pass until I've collected the seventeen element orbs." Hellstorm explained now that he knew Hector was a friend.
"The elemental orbs?" Hector asked. "What do they have to do with getting back to our time?"
'You're not going to leave me, are you?' Imoen asked worriedly.
"I'm not leaving anyone behind. I'll take you with me if you so desire, but this time. I just can't seem to get the hang of it. My adaptations can restrict me here unless I can adapt." Hector explained his position in this time.
"Let me start with what I know." Hellstorm began his story while someone watched quietly out of sight taking in each and every word.
--
A few hours later...
Everyone had taken a seat at the center table.
"And then I thought that this tournament would be the best way to easily explore the castle. Who knew that this event would also bring us back together?" Hellstorm finished his story with Ruby's help here and there explaining a few things that she had studied from her books.
"I can understand most of that, but this is far from what I imaged would happen. Who knew that you would be some kind of super creature? At least that explains why the demons attacked. They came searching for a power they couldn't have. But if what you say is true, then we can return to our time and fix this." Hector gave his last set of comments. The extra set of eyes took off quickly and quietly unheard by anyone.
'That explains a lot, but I still don't get it.' Imoen had taken a seat next her master.
"I'm not surprised. Your kind isn't really allowed to take such studies. I took a risk training you in the medical arts I taught you." Hector once again gently stroked her head.
'I understood most of that and now I seem to have a general idea on why you act the way you do.' Nidoking had been leaning back against the wall rather then sitting in a chair. 'A lot of things have become clear to me during the last few hours.'
"I'm curious, where did you find him and how much have you taught him?" Hellstorm asked.
"He found me is more the appropriate term for it. We've been traveling for almost eleven years and he's most of this on his own. He was quick to pick up on things." Hector told Hellstorm.
'I always keep an eye out for everything I can and in doing so, I've learned a lot about humans. I can tell you right now that Hector is unlike most others and sees Pokemon as equals without question.' Nidoking explained.
The doors opened creaking once again as Victor stepped into the room wearing a light suit of leather armor. "Ruby, it is getting late. Perhaps you should get rooms for your additional guests before it the moon has peaked. Don't forgot, all of you are expected in tomorrow's tournament."
"Of course. Please, follow me." Ruby stood up and headed for the door. "Victor, see to that my books are not disturbed until I have a chance to get back to them."
"None shall touch your books." Victor bowed his head as he turned toward the table. There were at least twelve various books all relating in some to Hellstorm's gifts being the Riftwalker. Ruby led the group back down the undecorated halls and to the sleeping quarters. She picked out a fairly large room for Hector and his Pokemon before she made her way with Hellstorm to her room.
"Please make sure that I am awake in time to get ready for tomorrows match." Hellstorm walked over to his bed as Ruby went to get changed. Hellstorm chanted himself a light sleeping spell to see to it that he would get enough sleep for tomorrow's match. He had much to think about now that he had encountered another from his own time and to add to this was the fact that this person was from his own pack. Add that to fact that he had to worry about how to deal with whatever he encountered tomorrow and the fact that he had to get picked to become a guard for the castle and he had a recipe for failure. Ruby knew that she had to find some way to help him relax and keep himself collected over the next few days, but she did not know how to do this.
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon. Only the idea and OC's.
Author Notes:
-- This will be used for scene breaks and for when the story switches to another character, but it does not mean that a new section of the story has started.
xXx This will identify where each paragraph breaks.
'Poketalk'
(Character Thoughts)
Disclaimer: Don't own Pokemon, never have, never will. Only the idea and OCs behind the story are mine
Beta reader: Catsithx
xXx
Chapter 6: Let the Tournament Begin
The next few days provided little chance for Hellstorm to look around. Sir Gallahad was almost always keeping an eye on him Ruby in some way or another making it impossible for Hellstorm to explore the castle. Hellstorm however wouldn't say anything because right now, Gallahad had the advantage being a castle guard. Many people began to arrive at the castle including some higher ranking people from neighboring kingdoms.
Many people came to the castle bearing armor and foreign emblems, all of which wanting to become a knight or just grab that big bag of gold that was the prize money. Many trainers also came forth and even a few breeders who thought that their Pokemon would make an excellent guard. Everyone who came to castle came for one reason, the upcoming tournament. Time seemed to pass quickly at castle now that everyone was there. The castle was full with people and the stables were filled with Pokemon. A few for their Pokemon and share a room with them much like how Ruby shared a room with Hellstorm.
Finally, after days of waiting, the tournament would begin. The arena was set up on the edge of the castle. The large open area had a moat around its outer most edge; several large stones placed randomly around the arena, and had large very thick stone walls that served to keep damage to a minimum. As an added precaution, the mages were all instructed to place a powerful barrier around the arena to deal with any stray attacks the Pokemon might use.
Everything was in place. "The first match starts at noon today. You'll be in the second match facing off against one of Lunastrain trainers." Ruby informed Hellstorm as they walked to the arena. "I assume you won't need a human partner to keep an eye on things for you."
"No, I do not believe that will be necessary." Hellstorm replied as he walked alongside Ruby to the combatants waiting area.
There were many Pokemon with trainers there all waiting to prove themselves in combat.
'I can't wait to test my skills in combat.' A large Nidoking said as Hellstorm took a seat by himself in the corner of the ring.
Almost everyone here was raised for combat and a few were barking threats at each other all waiting for a chance to show off their skills.
"I'll be watching your match the most. I can't wait to see how good you are." Ruby said as she turned to leave.
Many trainers just eyed Hellstorm. "What's this thing over here?" One, young male asked.
"No way is he here to compete. He doesn't even have a trainer to tell him how to fight." A second one, this time female commented.
"I need no trainer. I can think on my own." Hellstorm replied.
"Hold on, look at the collar. How many people use the sapphire in collars?" The rest of the trainers looked toward the voice. An older male dressed in black down with a Nidoking on his left and a female Lucario on his right. "If I had to guess, this one was trained by Hellstorm. He's the only one I can think of who uses sapphires for anything bigger then a ring without using some sort of insignia considering how rare they are."
A man walked in and called out the name "Hector, get ready." The older male realized he was being called and led the large purple Nidoking out into the arena. As he left, the female Lucario walked up to Hellstorm.
'The unmarked sapphire is the symbol Hellstorm. Were you really trained by him?' The female Lucario had a large jade color around her neck showing that she was a pet and not a fighter.
'Yes I was. I assume you are here for support or something seeing that collar around your neck.' Hellstorm replied.
'My master brought me here for my skill in medicine. I'm here to make sure his Pokemon stay healthy.' She told him.
'It's not a common thing for Pokemon to go into medicine in this time.' Hellstorm commented.
'My master is kind to me. He saw I had a natural talent with mixing herbs and salves and he helped me increase my knowledge.' She explained. 'You seem really nice. My name's Imoen.'
'My name is Varwaz. It's good to see that there are more then just a few select individuals who see our kind as more then beasts.' Hellstorm looked back to the door just in time to se the older male trainer walk back in with the Nidoking. The Nidoking had some bloody knuckles, but other then that, it did not seem to be hurt.
'Excuse me for minute.' Imoen walked over to the Nidoking and her master.
"I see you've been trying to make a new friend." The older male said. "So, if my guess in right you've trained with the one called Hellstorm."
"That I have. He trained me and taught me a few moves he developed himself." Hellstorm answered. "Now if you'll excuse me, I was informed that I'd be in the second battle."
Hellstorm was now able to get a good look at the man and judging by his worn cloak, he was not born into a wealthy family. He wore a black worn cloak used for traveling, and had a simple shirt and black pants. He must not have spent much time in towns because his hair was quite messy and he had started to grow a light beard. Imoen nodded her head at her master's comment about making friends.
The same man as before who called the first trainer now called out the name "Varwaz, get ready."
"I'll be back shortly." Hellstorm walked forward. He didn't know what to expect, but there were only a few things that could down him easily and he could more then defend himself against most other attacks.
Hellstorm had left his cloak behind, as he would not need for the match. He walked into the open arena across a small wooden bridge that extended over the moat around the arena. The stands were full and Hellstorm could easily see Ruby. She had taken a seat with her parents in a private section of the arena that had its own cover.
Hellstorm walked forward his eyes locked on the other gate. Slowly the door opened as a woman wearing the crest of the Lunastrain walked out. The crest was an emblem of a silver moon lying on top of large red kite shield. Right beside her was her Pokemon, a canine that stood over six feet even on all fours. It had a very bright and brilliant fur, even for an Arcanine.
(An Arcanine, this should prove too interesting.) Hellstorm moved to the center of the arena. He knew that he had some advantages as well disadvantages to not having a trainer with him. The only disadvantage he saw was the fact the opposing Pokemon has a second set of eyes that he did not. However, he could think on his own and could choose his own attacks and not have some trainer shout them out to him which meant that his opponent would only have a few seconds to determine his attacks. At the same time, he could over hear what attacks the trainer would call and prepare to counter them as they were called.
As Hellstorm made his way to the center of the arena, so did the Arcanine he would be facing.
'Hey, I hope you didn't come here to win.' The Arcanine said as they met in the middle of the arena, each one waiting for the signal to start the battle. 'There has been one of you Lucarios yet that hasn't fallen to my attacks.'
'Unlike others of my kind, fire won't take me down easily.' Hellstorm looked up at the Pokemon before which stood well over a foot taller then he did.
'I'll make this fast as long as you go down quietly.' The Arcanine smirked.
"Begin." King Mark shouted. Hellstorm took off fast; a foe of this size would not be easy to take down.
"Flame Wheel." The female trainer shouted and almost as if this attack had been planned by the both of them, Arcanine was instantly on fire and rolling along the ground. The large flaming wheel headed for Hellstorm who defiantly stood his ground.
Hellstorm knew his strength and natural impact abilities could help him here as he threw his left out to his right as he prepared to swat the powerful fire type off course and possibly into the water. Hellstorm swung his arm at high speeds just before impact and slammed the back of his paw into the flaming disc that would have crushed him sending his attacker off into the air at an odd angle. It was thanks to his impact abilities that he was able to pull this stunt off. A power that he mastered shortly after coming to this time amplified the amount of impact damage he dealt when fighting. The final result was a greatly increased amount of force that knocked him back.
The Arcanine did not seem to be affected by the attack and landed smoothly only to continue his attack although he did have to adjust his course slightly to avoid one of the boulders that had been placed around the course. Hellstorm dashed behind a boulder as the Arcanine came back around.
The trainer who was with the Arcanine smiled thinking this would be a quick match, but was glad that it was not. Most of her foes before now had been weak and slow, that was the reason she joined up in the tournament.
Hellstorm hid behind the boulder as the Arcanine went to make a third pass, but just as it was going to pass the boulder Hellstorm was hiding behind, Hellstorm thrust the boulder into the Arcanine's path with a force palm. The Arcanine swerved to get out of the way, but in the process, he ran into another boulder with a loud bang as the boulder crumbled under the force of the attack.
'Why you little.' The Arcanine shook off his dizziness quickly as Hellstorm went to charge in.
"Inferno." The trainer shouted. Arcanine wasted no time and quickly drew in a very deep breath. Hellstorm was quickly moving in, but he was still not fast enough. The Arcanine began to exhale, the deep red and yellow of blazing came from the back of his throat. In less then a second, everything in front of the Arcanine and a bit to his sides were all lit up in a brilliant blaze of reds, yellows, and oranges. The attack lasted several seconds and everyone was ready to call the match. The flames died down revealing the blackened ground and boulders, but also showing one other thing.
In the middle of the large patch of scorched dirt was Hellstorm. He was kneeling down on his left knee using his right arm to support himself. His fur was slightly singed, but nothing serious. Everyone looked on in surprise as Hellstorm got up and dusted off as much of the blacked ash as he could.
'What the heck? No way, none of your kind could survive that attack.' The Arcanine snapped bearing its teeth showing just how unhappy it was by the fact that his foe still stood.
'I told you fire won't affect me like it does the others of my kind.' Hellstorm dusted the last of the ash he could off of himself as he prepared to charge his foe.
Everyone in the stands was surprised by the turn out of the attack as they thought it was over. Hellstorm was not used to the crowds cheering he was getting and just pushed it all out of his mind. He charged forward, his fists tightly clenched as he prepared for the next attack.
The Arcanine moved in quickly and being slightly faster then Hellstorm had a slight advantage. Hellstorm however was very resistant to his foes elemental attacks that would limit the moves used effectively against him.
"Take down." The female trainer called out trying to find some way to deal damage to Hellstorm.
Both combatants moved quickly toward one another, the Arcanine's anger was starting to get the better of him. Never before had any opponent shaken off his strongest fire attack like it did very little damage if any at all. He ignored his masters command went into another Fire Spin attack, only this one was much stronger then before leaving the lightly trail of cinders as it went along. Hellstorm jumped over the enrage Arcanine and fired a pair of Aura Spheres straight into the path of the Arcanine creating a small crater. While it wasn't very deep or large in size, it was still enough to disrupt the attack and sent the Arcanine air borne.
Hellstorm landed and very quickly turned to plan an interception course with the Arcanine. Hellstorm jumped into the path of the Arcanine as he once again summoned forth a pair of Aura spheres. Much to Hellstorm's surprise, the Arcanine stopped his Flame Wheel mid flight and countered Hellstorm with a Fire Blast attack. The five pointed star like fire attack struck Hellstorm head on and knocked him back towards the watery edge of the arena. Hellstorm was lying flat on his back, the tips of his dreadlocks just barely touching the water.
(I've got to give him more credit. Those fire type attacks of his do more then just fire damage.) Hellstorm jumped to feet as the Arcanine dashed in quickly on his right. Hellstorm ran toward his foe and jumped over him at the second. He grabbed the Arcanine's tail as he flew over him and quickly jerked his arm up, although it did cause him to pop his shoulder and almost dislocate it. The Arcanine was caught off guard by the sudden change of direction as he quickly found flying out of control into the air after having almost lost his tail in the attack. Hellstorm launched one Aura Sphere right after another with his good arm, but none of them were aimed directly at the Arcanine. Instead, the Aura Spheres formed a ring of nine around the helpless Pokemon as it started its rapid decent. A small ring of aura energy seemed to form connecting all nine the Aura Spheres to each other.
The Arcanine managed to regain control of himself and had a somewhat decent landing with all nine of the Aura Spheres still circling him. He quickly picked himself up, but it was too late. In a last ditch effort, he mustered up the most energy he could and fired one last attack at Hellstorm. A wave of fire engulfed half of the arena as Hellstorm quickly ducked for cover. All nine of the Aura Spheres around the Arcanine forcefully collided with it at the same time ending the barrage of fire, but Hellstorm was unable to find cover for the time the flames had engulfed the field. His fur was burnt a long with most of the arena.
(I've forgotten how hard a battle is without my demon arts and magic. Perhaps I've relied on them too long.) Hellstorm was able to stand, but was still a bit shaky. He quite whispered a very simple and light healing under his breath that would give him energy and take away the pain, but it did little for his fur. He would need a long bath to deal with that problem. He looked up to see just how bad the Arcanine was as the smoke slowly cleared around the area. The Arcanine was still standing but was in worse shape then Hellstorm.
'I've really got to give you more credit that what I thought you deserved.' Hellstorm shouted.
'You ass. I'll make you pay for this.' The Arcanine quickly recovered himself and charged, his fangs showing as they were light up by the fire building in his throat.
Hellstorm cursed at his luck. If he was going to end this quickly, he had to use one of his more powerful moves. Hellstorm quickly drew in energy into his right arm as a dark aura appeared around body. He ran forward to meet the Arcanine for one last attack. The Arcanine released his Inferno attack once again as Hellstorm used his Black Palm attack right in the Arcanine's face. The Arcanine flew back with a black scar on his face.
"I've relied on my demon arts and magic too much." Hellstorm whispered to himself as the King called the match.
"Varwaz wins." The king shouted for all to hear. There was no way the Arcanine was getting back up, but it was still a close match. Hellstorm would have to spend some time practicing his moves before the next match to avoid a repeat of this match.
Hellstorm made his way back to the combatants resting area. Imoen saw Hellstorm and ran over to him.
'That must have hurt. What were you fighting?' She asked as her master walked up to him.
"That last move of yours was a quite impressive." Hector said as he stood up. Hellstorm took the same seat he had before. All Hellstorm had to do now was wait for the day's competitions to end. "Can we talk in private for a few? I have something I need to tell you."
"What is it?" Hellstorm asked.
"Let's just say we have more in common then you think." Hector moved toward a table against the far as if getting a drink of water from the many cups that were laid there. Hellstorm's curiosity got the better of him and he walked to the same table.
"I'm impressed that you managed to beat him without your demon arts." Hector stated just loud enough for Hellstorm to hear. "In our time, you had no choice but to rely on them."
"Who are you?" Hellstorm asked quietly as not to draw attention.
"You weren't the only pulled from our time... Hellstorm." Hector replied. "We can talk more after the matches. I assume that you can get us a private room seeing as how you seem to have some sort of connection with the princess."
"We'll talk once we get out of here." Hellstorm turned to leave and quickly took note of all of the other Pokemon and humans. He did not want word to get out that he was Hellstorm.
As Hellstorm took his seat, Imoen came over to join him. 'Are you okay? That last battle looked like it hurt. Let me take a look.' Imoen went to reach her arm toward Hellstorm, but he raised his paw to stop hers.
'Why have you taken such a liking to me?' Hellstorm asked.
'Because you look nice. There aren't that many Lucario around here, so I try to get to know one whenever and where I can.' Imoen replied.
'Has your master said anything about me?' Hellstorm put his paw back down.
'He said that you were very unique, one of a kind. I can see why with that stone in your head.' Imoen explained. 'He also said that you were very powerful and that he had hopes of traveling with you if you were the one he was looking for.'
'How long have you been traveling with him?' Hellstorm asked as Imoen once again stretched her arm out to try and inspect Hellstorm's burnt fur.
'I've been traveling with him since I hatched. Hector found my egg lying in a small cave, but my parents were no where to be seen. He came into the cave looking for shelter from the storm that night.' Imoen slowly looked through Hellstorm's burnt fur. 'I hatched shortly after he arrived. I could feel his kind presence before I hatched, but only his. After I hatched, he stayed there with me for a few days, but my parents never returned, so he took me with him.' Imoen was surprised by how few actual burns there were on Hellstorm. 'The two real things I've noticed about him is that he always seems to be searching for someone and that he seems to be able to go on forever as if he rarely needs sleep and even when he does sleep, its never for long.' Imoen finished her short story.
'I see, but about how long have you been traveling with him. How many years?' Hellstorm asked again hoping to get an idea how long Hector would have been stuck here before Hector met with him.
'I'd have to say about nine years.' Imoen answered him. 'I've never seen so little damage from a fire attack like that done to our kind. We have a natural weakness to fire.'
'Like your master said, I'm far from normal.' Hellstorm looked over at Hector who was peacefully looking at the next match. If what Hector had said was true, then it is possible that a demon may have followed him through time and that would put everyone's life in danger.
The rest of the day passed quickly. Most of the Pokemon that went into the arena returned, but a few were unable to continue.
The rules for this tournament were unlike most because the King and Queen were looking for those best suited to the job and not the strongest. Because of this, any Pokemon that could continue to battle the next day was to come back and fight the next day. There would be a full week of battles, a total of seven battles for each combatant that was able to continue. Then at the end of the seven days, the King and Queen would consult with their lead guards and then pick a number of those that would do the best at the guarding the castle. In the end, it was all about style, skills, smarts, and overall performance that would secure a Pokemon's position as a castle guard. Power did mean a lot here, but only if the Pokemon in question made the best use of it and followed commands as given.
Imoen made a few attempts at small talk with Hellstorm, but he did not seem very interested in small talk. Still, she tried to get to know Hellstorm in any way she could. As the day drew to a close and the mages were force to light up the arena, the battles were called to an end for the day. Out of the several hundred Pokémon that came to compete, only ninety-eight were able to continue. A Nidoqueen had broken a leg in the first round but did not stop trying to perform its best for its master and thus, almost killed itself. The second one that was unable to continue battling was a Golem because its master was called back to his homeland to deal with a sudden uprising of bandits. The King made a kind speech thanking everyone for coming and hoped to see many more good battles over the next few days. Ruby was quick to meet back up with Hellstorm after the King and Queen returned to the castle.
"That was amazing. I thought that inferno attack would have taken you out." Ruby cheered.
"I need a room to speak with this man in private." Hellstorm explained not caring for the praise he was being given.
"Very well. Come with me. I'll take you to the Royal Library." Ruby was slightly confused.
Ruby led Hellstorm, Imoen, Hector, and his Nidoking deep into the castle, down halls that had only torches hung on them. This was obviously not a highly used area as the walls were so plain. For that matter, very few probably ever came back this way. Ruby stopped before a large set of wooden doors. She pushed on them and they creaked as they opened. Once again, they failed to notice the extra set of eyes that had followed them oh so stealthily.
Bookshelf upon bookshelf filled the room all lined up against walls. Several undecorated chairs with simple cushions and empty tabled filled the center of the room. A slight layer of dust had built up on the tables and chairs, but there was no such dust, not even the tiniest spec on any of the books that filled this room. All the books were in very good condition no matter how old or new the books were. In one of the corners near the door was a large stack of books that been put aside for Ruby. These were the books she requested before finding out that that she had been called back home to watch the tournaments that were now taking place.
"You can talk here while I do some reading." Ruby walked over to the pile of books and grabbed a large collection before heading over to a table. Ruby tapped the table twice and the very small whirlwind gathered the dust all at the center of the table. "I do love these tables." Ruby tapped a chair as the dust was quickly cleared off the chair.
"How do you know me?" Hellstorm turned toward Hector as he quickly summoned forth a Crimson Aura Sphere in his paw and pointed it right at Hector. His Nidoking stepped between them ready to fight.
'Back off.' The Nidoking warned Hellstorm.
"Stand down. He has every right to question me like given the circumstances." Hector told his Nidoking. Nidoking was not very happy to do so, but he moved aside. "That day the demon attacked our pack, I was also thrown threw time. My real name is Hector."
"Hector?! You've certainly grown up." Hellstorm lowered his arm, but did not dismiss his Aura Sphere.
"I've been in this time for about twelve years. Of course I grew some. I heard rumors of Hellstorm in this kingdom and just had to come and see for myself. I see you still have that watch Julian gave you." Hector looked at Hellstorm's wrist.
"How did you survive?" Hellstorm asked.
"It wasn't easy. Most of my arm here is made of magic." Hector held up his left arm as it now rippled with magic. "I was lucky I landed where I did. A kind group of farmers cared for until I was able to get back on my feet. I cast a spell on their land making it very rich increasing the crops they grew in return for saving my life." Hector explained.
"You're from the same time as Hellstorm?" Ruby asked sharing the same confused expression as Imoen.
'Huh, wait. I don't get this.' Imoen complained.
"Fine, if you really from my time and pack, answer me this. Who was my greatest friend and mate to be?" Hellstorm asked.
"Sora, that vampire you saved from the mutant Leafeon on your first trip to the coast, roughly... three, maybe four years before the attack." Hector answered unsure about the time line.
"It was three years before the attack." Hellstorm dismissed his Aura Sphere and bowed his head. "Forgive my aggression."
"All is fine. We're just lucky to have found each other." Hector gave his forgiveness knowing that this meeting was risky. "Anyway, I was hoping that you might be able help me find a way back to our time. This world may be nice, but I can't get used to it. It's far too different."
"Hold on, you two are from the same pack. I thought Hellstorm came back alone." Ruby stood up and left four open books on the table.
'Hector, what's this all about? You're scaring me a bit.' Imoen walked over to her master.
"Everything will be alright Imoen. I'm still me; I'm just talking with an old friend. I have no doubt that you have noticed my strange habits like getting very little sleep and always seeming to have lots of energy not to mention my hate for the cold." Hector explained looking down kindly at his Lucario. He stroked her head slowly showing that everything was aright.
"I found the gates of time, but the master of said gate refuse to let me pass until I've collected the seventeen element orbs." Hellstorm explained now that he knew Hector was a friend.
"The elemental orbs?" Hector asked. "What do they have to do with getting back to our time?"
'You're not going to leave me, are you?' Imoen asked worriedly.
"I'm not leaving anyone behind. I'll take you with me if you so desire, but this time. I just can't seem to get the hang of it. My adaptations can restrict me here unless I can adapt." Hector explained his position in this time.
"Let me start with what I know." Hellstorm began his story while someone watched quietly out of sight taking in each and every word.
--
A few hours later...
Everyone had taken a seat at the center table.
"And then I thought that this tournament would be the best way to easily explore the castle. Who knew that this event would also bring us back together?" Hellstorm finished his story with Ruby's help here and there explaining a few things that she had studied from her books.
"I can understand most of that, but this is far from what I imaged would happen. Who knew that you would be some kind of super creature? At least that explains why the demons attacked. They came searching for a power they couldn't have. But if what you say is true, then we can return to our time and fix this." Hector gave his last set of comments. The extra set of eyes took off quickly and quietly unheard by anyone.
'That explains a lot, but I still don't get it.' Imoen had taken a seat next her master.
"I'm not surprised. Your kind isn't really allowed to take such studies. I took a risk training you in the medical arts I taught you." Hector once again gently stroked her head.
'I understood most of that and now I seem to have a general idea on why you act the way you do.' Nidoking had been leaning back against the wall rather then sitting in a chair. 'A lot of things have become clear to me during the last few hours.'
"I'm curious, where did you find him and how much have you taught him?" Hellstorm asked.
"He found me is more the appropriate term for it. We've been traveling for almost eleven years and he's most of this on his own. He was quick to pick up on things." Hector told Hellstorm.
'I always keep an eye out for everything I can and in doing so, I've learned a lot about humans. I can tell you right now that Hector is unlike most others and sees Pokemon as equals without question.' Nidoking explained.
The doors opened creaking once again as Victor stepped into the room wearing a light suit of leather armor. "Ruby, it is getting late. Perhaps you should get rooms for your additional guests before it the moon has peaked. Don't forgot, all of you are expected in tomorrow's tournament."
"Of course. Please, follow me." Ruby stood up and headed for the door. "Victor, see to that my books are not disturbed until I have a chance to get back to them."
"None shall touch your books." Victor bowed his head as he turned toward the table. There were at least twelve various books all relating in some to Hellstorm's gifts being the Riftwalker. Ruby led the group back down the undecorated halls and to the sleeping quarters. She picked out a fairly large room for Hector and his Pokemon before she made her way with Hellstorm to her room.
"Please make sure that I am awake in time to get ready for tomorrows match." Hellstorm walked over to his bed as Ruby went to get changed. Hellstorm chanted himself a light sleeping spell to see to it that he would get enough sleep for tomorrow's match. He had much to think about now that he had encountered another from his own time and to add to this was the fact that this person was from his own pack. Add that to fact that he had to worry about how to deal with whatever he encountered tomorrow and the fact that he had to get picked to become a guard for the castle and he had a recipe for failure. Ruby knew that she had to find some way to help him relax and keep himself collected over the next few days, but she did not know how to do this.