As the boat dashed along the clashing waves onward to its destination, worry slowly etched its way in Isaac's heart, like the vines of a Bulbasaur constricting around his chest. His concern steadily mounted, as silent words escaped his lips 'Amy'. No reassurance of any Nurse, no matter how adept they where in their profession, could instill any peace in his heart, which being there and seeing her with his own two eyes could.

Like an hour glass and the grains of sand within, time counted down in their dissipating seconds until they would finally dock at the jetty. Isaac was proficient to the literal sense. When he spoke out "We are leaving in two minutes", he meant it regardless of anyone's readiness. He was a young man that followed his own words to the letter. He expected nothing from others that he did not of himself, even if he was very direct and maybe a little demanding now and then.

Isaac came to rest his eyes upon the solemn egg once more. In this moment, a small peace was bestowed upon his wavering heart, and his mind strayed for just a moment. He gazed upon it and his pupils moved, scanning with stern examination of it. His seriousness broke into gentle smile, while his thoughts wondered freely, and the questions came to him that drove him into pondering as to what may hatch from it. He slowly embraced the glass enclosure, which held the egg, close to his chest. His smile grew wider. Maybe it was some kind of relief, and yet he could not place his finger on it. Was this a maternal feeling? Even so, it was warm and by far as pleasant as any love he has felt before.

Slight movements gave way from the egg. It almost seemed as if the creature within the shell could feel his presence somehow. It didn't go unnoticed, inspiring a small chuckle from Isaac.

Upon his initial evaluation of the eggs colors, the question lingered in his mind, as to what manner of Pokemon would hatch from it, and there was the enigma within itself that would stay for a while. Various names where already flooding his mind, and he gave a hearty laugh. He really was an eager bunny.

"Gosh, I feel like a parent already, and the egg hasn't even hatched."

He began falling into a daydream state, eventually managing to narrow down the possible names. 'Alright,' thought Isaac, 'Names for a boy... Kyle, Mark, and Remus. For girl names... Claire, maybe Sarah, or even Maria.' He visualized three somewhat cute little Pokemon, looking up at him with sparkly love filled eyes.

His mind dwindled in these pleasantries for a little while. Just as his heart calmed, the loathsome memories of the events that transpired back on the island forcibly flashed before him.

Isaac could have never imagined that there could be someone as sinister as Commander Mercury. He was a man surrounded with darkness to him. This man's intelligence not only rivaled his own, but more to the point, it surpassed achievements that Isaac himself could not have hoped to accomplish yet. If there was any credit due, the man is a genius. To be able to design and create technology like that was something he could only fathom. It seemed almost inconceivable that someone could actually create a new Pokémon attack artificially.

Then there was the other problem, the mystery shrouding the hooded figure. Just who was that? Isaac could have sworn he had seen him somewhere before. He could still remember the unsettling chills that this figure sent rippling up Isaac's spine, 'But the question is where... Wait a minute...' Isaac held his left bicep, his fingers concealing part of a symbol, 'Could he be...'

Isaac looked down and sighed. He was taken back to reminisce in memories deeper within his past, remembering one of the particular things his mother had forewarned him against. She had told him about two particular symbols, but there was so much more to this than at first glance. Her voice had been emitting a fearful tremble with her warning. It was clear she wanted him to stay away from them... and yet, for the past six years Isaac had been the bearer of one of them.

Time had fleeted, and at that moment, the boat was starting to dock at Canalave City. It seemed a much shorter trip than that to the island, or was it because he had been so absorbed in his own thoughts letting time slip by unnoticed? Whatever the case, he was here now.

Isaac stood up, feeling the boat swaying subtly. He gathered his belongings, and he smiled and waved at the Captain to convey his gratitude. It was not long before his feet where back on solid ground. He began taking long striding steps towards his destination, the Pokemon Center.

As Isaac walked past a large, rectangular-shaped building, moonlight that came from behind it cast a shadow down which eclipsed him. He came to a slow halt to inhale a deep breath, taking a moment to gaze at it. It was none other than the Canalave City Gym. He knew Byron patiently awaited challenger after challenger, but tomorrow... "That challenger will be me... " Isaac whispered to himself while he gritted his teeth and clenched a fist. He turned away, continuing onwards to deal with pressing matters at hand.

The doors of the Pokémon Center were flung back as Isaac hastily made his way in. Familiar faces greeted him with their eyes, his team awaited in eagerness within the warmth of the lobby. For now, the egg safely rested within the bag, until the right moment in which he would tell the group. It would be better if he would speak of it once they were all together. Once more, he whispered her name "Amy".

Isaac took a few more steps, stopping before Valerie. It was in her he had placed his hopes when he entrusted her to get Amy and the others to the Pokémon Center. There was hesitation for words on his part, looking deeply into her eyes. After a small lapse in time they finally did come.

"How is she?"

Valerie's facial expressions gave way to a small comforting smile,

"She'll be alright... she's got a broken rib and lost a lot of energy trying to escape from that machine's grasp. The nurse said she should be able to leave tomorrow afternoon, but she will still have to take it easy for a few days."

Isaac sighed in soothing relief, with Amy in no imminent danger his attention like most hot blooded males drifted along to the nurses not so far off on the other side of the lobby.

"Well, at least she's going to be alright," he said while staring at the nurse. His eyes were scanning over the curvaceous, slender body, dressed in the purity of her white uniform. The nurse's wavy chocolate hair down elegantly to her shoulders. She gave a glance, having being noticed by Isaac's wondering eyes, it almost brought a giggle to her seeing his goofy grin plastered over his face. She returned the smile with a slight wave, rather cute he may add, but she was being polite.

"Alright, that's enough of that." Isaac suddenly felt an abrupt painful pinch along his right ear lobe, having had it latched on to by a very attentive Valerie. He was helpless to her malicious demeanor at times, and could he really blame her for that? After all, ogling at the big breasted beauties came naturally and seemed far out of his control. He moped being dragged back over to where the conversation was. Somehow he'd been so fixated by the eye candy, he had completely strayed a few steps away from the group. Nurses had such a pull on him, he wouldn't deny he was drawn to them like a magnet.

Over the years, Isaac had developed quite a little thing for the nurses at Pokémon Centers, and had foregone many unsuccessful passes. Each attempt led to flat out rejection. Valerie obviously had become accustomed to seeing how this usually turned out, and dragging him away from those bimbo's as far as she thought of them, came as second nature. She had no real sympathy for his self inflicted heart ache which he received but she rather not have to spend a hour becoming the lead role in 'The Isaac comfort hour special' besides he never learned.

Isaac conveyed a deep sigh of disappointment, before looking into Valerie's eyes

"So, are we allowed to visit Amy?" The Gardevoir nodded in confirmation, she reluctantly turned strolling to Amy's room, the others silently followed in suite, just as keen on wanting to see Amy. Valerie pushed the door open, allowing for Isaac to have the first privilege. His eyes fell upon her petit injured form resting uneasily completely bed ridden. Her chest adorned with the white fabric of bandages, she looked worse for wear. The sight made him wince, and turn his head, was this his fault. There was a momentary thought before he came out of that notion, 'no its the fault of that bastard'.

He turned to face her, almost afraid to look her in the eye. Valerie slid her hand within the warmth of Isaac's

"She doesn't blame you, you know?" came the comforting words from the Gardevoir's lips. Somehow Valerie had a way of making bad situations bearable.

The small Grass type let her wondering gaze drift upwards, seeing the visitors and the bold young man before her, his face riddled with maternal protectiveness towards her. He drew himself to her taking a seat beside her, his head lowered looking downwards solemnly. The young mans voice came almost shakily

"How are you feeling, Amy?" With those words he turned to her, there was no denying how he was feeling about the whole affair, it was apparent in the tone of his voice

Amy sighed and replied, "It hurts if I breathe too deeply." Valerie was translating what she was saying to Isaac.

Isaac frowned and gently placed his hand on Amy's shoulder, "I'm sorry that I wasn't able to free you from that machine's grasp sooner." concern echoed throughout his voice as he tried to keep that false smile on his face. He lightly rubbed at her shoulder, while the Bellossom turned her head to his hand, gently rubbing her cheek affectionately against his hand. "It's alright, Isaac... you did your best, and at least I'm safe." Her words offered some comfort but it was little and far between.

Amy had never gained a ounce of reason to pass any blame upon her master, but forgiveness was two ways, she may have forgiven him, but Isaac was confined to his own struggle within the affair, he was a great distance from making peace with himself. Forgiveness was always easier said then felt, his own actions and thoughts condemning himself to repenting, yet unable to stray far from his own demons.

Amy crafted a smile of sincerity for her trainer, it was of course genuine. The petite fragile voice of the injured creature came

"Bellossom... Bell, Bellossom?"

Valerie translated it for Isaac,

"So, are you going to challenge Byron today, Isaac?"

Isaac shook his head,

"rest now Amy its nothing to worry about, with all thats happened it's important, but you getting better is the main thing. I've not had time to make final preparations, and tomorrow we will work at it, then challenge Byron, which will mean you'll be out of here and be able to watch me whip him"

That got the small Grass type to chuckle and flinched a little, the heavy gasps of laughter hurting her chest.

"Maybe making you laugh wasn'r such a hot idea but rest now, and don't worry about a thing" she nodded, struggling to keep her eyes open, a adorable yawn left her mouth, as she chapped her lips together giving a little murmur, those eyelids of hers felt heavy as they drooped slowly, till the eventually clamped shut, drifting into the slumber that fused peace into her blessed being.

Valerie knelt down before Isaac, starring into his eyes, she beheld a concern within them for him.

"No one blames you, I don't have to be a psychic type to know what you are feeling"

"Maybe, maybe not. I want you to take the others to the hotel we stayed at 2 nights ago. Its not far, remember the one?" Isaac broke speech a moment to gain her approval, watching Valerie nod, then continued "Ok that's good, I'm going to stay here with Amy"

Valerie wasn't too sure Isaac would be allowed but then again her psychic ability did give her a suggestive advantage to plant thoughts, although it would be misuse of her abilities she could probably do it, this once.

"Leave the nurse to me, I'm sure she'll let you stay. I'll take the others,see you tomorrow then. One more thing! Stop being so harsh on yourself" The others left within moments, leaving Isaac there with Amy. How could he leave her side as he had before? And after all he is here now, and he wished to remain here for her.

Isaac sat there, his eyes lazily probed along the patterns of the floor tiles, rolling his eyes up along the boring magnolia wood chip wall paper he starred aimlessly. He wasn't really paying attention to any of it as he trapped within his own thoughts. They played like a broken record over and over, he knew as everyone else on his team that brooding over it wouldn't lead to much avail, but in all sincerity would it have made the slightest but of difference to what happened to Amy?

Just as a sufferer of insomnia would have it, it struck him much rather in the same way. Sleep would not come so easily with all that pressured his mind. Even the little solace he found within watching his beloved Pokemon peacefully sleeping it remained as a reminder of his failure as her trainer. It was his choices that led to him failing to save her when it counted. The silence brought its own caliber of noise as the screams of her imagined pain rang within the deep recesses of his mind.

Rest was a necessity to even the most hardened creature, and it was desperately needed by all. Isaac plainly understand the values of such a thing, and its significance to his performance during training tomorrow. Was he even ready to take on someone such as Byron? With no one around he sought for the answers which evaded him till it came. He found his peace as he reached into his bag, drawing it to his chest, he rocked gently back and forth cradling the encased egg within a tender embrace. It gave him a warm feeling that granted him the brief alleviation of his turmoil. It wasn't much but enough to be finally able to drift into a place where he wouldn't be constricted by his emotions, that place was sleep.


~~~*~~~

The following day took its toll, with time imperatively short. Final tactic's and preparations to go, this dawned the penultimate day before the ordained match. The day drifted, in taxing and arduous means of hardened training. Isaac's pokemon being pushed through rigorous drills and combat formations. Isaac's voice commanding with fine leadership qualities. Still something did not sit well, if only Amy would be amongst those he called his best, it would have set free that edgy feeling that circulated within his internals like venom.

Noon approached with the sun shifting its heat directly over head, sweat broke down the bodies of his Pokemon. Isaac watched Valerie staggering, somewhat off balance as she brought her hand to her forehead, she swayed standing a moment before collasping to her side left there starring at the ground in a dazed state.

"Val!!!!" Isaac cried, he rushed forward, striding quickly to her, squating down to meet her gaze "Are you ok, speak to me" His voice was rushed and very worried. She met his eyes and gave a smile

"I'll be just fine, I've just been feeling a little dizzy"

"A little? No . . . . that's not a little, I'm getting you to the Pokemon Center"

The others had stopped, every single face that gazed upon her, riddled with worry.

"Ok I'm going to take Valerie to get checked out but it doesn't mean you guys need to stop. We'll take a break when I return, Victor, Empolean and Staraptor I want you three to go at each other, in three way sparring, go for endurance. I'll be back in a hour"

Isaac walked beside her, she seemed set in her way to walk herself.

"let me carry you?"

"I have legs to walk, I think I can manage but thanks"

"Come on, what if you fall again?"

"I won't"

She seemed adamant and set in her ways. Isaac knew how she could be sometimes so gave her the benefit of the doubt. Half way back to the city it happened again, her body staggered but this time Isaac was there to take her as she fell into his arms. He swept her of her feet looking down at her shaking his head.

"Well now I'm the one insisting" He chuckled, but hid his concern. Valerie sighed and turned her head from him. She did seem to be acting a little unlike herself, but he had no idea what she was keeping bottled away. She seemed reluctant being carried in such a helpless way, but under the circumstances, she couldn't say she wouldn't have done the same thing if she was in his shoes.



~~~*~~~


A short time later Valerie had finally been seen to as he watched the sexy nurse finish her evaluation.

"She's going to be just fine, there nothing of real concern and nothing that a good rest and a little more sleep wont fix, all the symptoms suggest its nothing more than a lack of sleep so she's good to go"

Isaac smiled at Valerie, he was more than relieved that nothing was out of the ordinary and it was nothing to worry about. He had burdened her with so much responsibility of late, was it any wonder why she was so exhausted? He understood this now but now that Valerie was clear of any serious problems, a man can't help but value one of mother natures more indulging creatures. Isaac turned his head to admire this particular nurse Joy's cleavage, Valerie could be immediately be seen rolling her eyes up and sighing as the returned a a comment of her own. Obviously not wanting to waste time watching Isaac spoil himself in his male obligatory duty, of sight seeing her hills.

"Isaac? Ok lets go and check up on Amy as seen as we are here"

Isaac sheepishly turned to Valerie with a large grin, with that same goofy grin he got when in the presence of such females.

"Sorry Val its just well" He paused a moment then focused back to Valerie "Nevermind that I want you to promise you'll get a really early night as you have been overexerting yourself the last few days"

"Alright I promise but lets go?"

Isaac got up from his chair opposite Valerie as she graced his side, locking arms together they walked onto where Amy was, it was about time she got discharged. It was only moments when he spotted her. She definitely was all smiles and very eager to depart this place. Isaac rolled his arms under as he raised her of her soft mattress into his embracing arms so he may cherish the one he almost lost.

He could not explain the joy he felt that she would be in a condition where she could view the battle and this was more then a motivational booster. He knew having her there to cheer him would strengthen him even further mentally, but not only that he would also be spiritually reinforced through the upcoming battle.

Finally departing the Pokemon center after signing the relevant paper work for Amy's discharge he made his way back to the training grounds. The time had come to probably reveal the secret to which he had been carrying so long with himself, the secret of the egg. Now that everyone had gathered there was no time like the present. He faced them waiting a little while till the chatter quietened and their undivided attention was given to him. They hushed as they looked on, stopping what they where doing, all seemed relieved to see Amy and Valerie seemed well but they knew Isaac wanted to tell them something, and true enough his words followed


"I have some good news," he began, "There will soon be another friend among us." he almost sounded like a preacher, Valerie almost laughed but managed to keep a straight face. While his team pondered on why that statement would be true, Isaac pulled the egg out of his bag, getting happy and excited gasps from them. He then explained how Riley had given him the responsibility of taking care of the egg and the Pokémon it contained once it hatched. The group was in smiles as they were now looking forward to that moment.

The day was getting into the late evening, he decided its best to grab the others and check their pokeballs and admit them into the Pokémon centre for recovery after this harsh training so they are a hundred and one percent for tomorrow.



~~~*~~~


The morning came, and the foreordained date took its grasp, like a firm hold that stricken the team with pre-fight jitters. It was time to head to the gym, and Isaac's team was just as anxious as he was as they made their way to the large building. Isaac stopped outside the entrance and turned to face the rest of the group. "Alright, sorry about this but-"

Victor interrupted him,

"Yeah yeah, we know. It's alright, Isaac." One of the rules of the gym battles was that all participating Pokémon need to be kept inside their pokeballs until sent out to battle. Isaac nodded and took the moment to return Victor, Empoleon, and Staraptor before walking into the gym.

The inside of the building was like that of a small stadium, including bleachers off to the sides. The battlefield had a ground-based floor within its boundaries, with a few rocks scattered around it. Trainers that were studying under Byron were training with their Pokémon around the battlefield, supervised by the leader himself. Isaac made his way over to Byron, an air of determination surrounding him. "Excuse me," he addressed to the gym leader. Byron turned to face Isaac,

"Yes? Can I help you?" The man had a rough and rugged look to him, dark brown hair and a short well groomed beard.

Isaac nodded in response,

"Yes, I've come here to challenge you, sir."

Byron raised a thick brow at the statement.

"Are you quite sure about that? You don't seem like you're all that tough son... no offense." As if by adding 'no offense' he would lessen the impact of what he said.

Isaac had determination burning in his eyes as he stared at the gym leader, showing that he was serious about going through with this. Byron laughed finding it a little hard to contain himself but none the less he obliged Isaac. He turned to face the other trainers who seemed in the midst of exercising with their Pokemon.

"Ok everyone, this is how a Pokemon battle should be conducted, keep a close eye on me and observe. Make your notes as we have a challenge"

The trainers seemed excited slowly dragging their training apparatus off to the side, as they paved the way to see their instructor to show them the way to battle glory, and how it should be handled. The stern figure made his way across the field to take his position. He looked back at Isaac, giving off a dominating demeanor that emphasized his righteous position as leader of this gym. Isaac could see why the other trainers looked up to him, even aspired for that matter. This man had a presence to him that even Isaac could follow by example should he have not been on his own quest.


Isaac heard little adorable sounds from Amy as Valerie mediated between the two.

"She says good luck, and that goes for me too, win this one!"

Isaac watched them leave towards the stands, those purposeful words ,instilling more confidence within his stern frame. He was going to do this, and he will win this on for Amy!. Isaac brimmed with confidence, he remembered a famous fighter once quoting 'Its not the bigger stronger man that wins, its the man that believes he can win' Isaac placed his feet within the challenger square, he was a man and one that believed in his Pokemon, his friends. The referee was last to take his position by the side of the ground.

"Ladies and gentlemen the battle between the crusher of trainers, the terror of rocks, the master of the solid plains, presenting the Canalave City gym leader . . . . . Byyyyyyyron!!!"

Isaac almost laughed, that really seemed a mouthful. He continued to listen

"On this side we have Isaac Fredrickson of Twinleaf Town, Ahem . . . . This will be a standard single battle! Both trainers will select three Pokémon for the fight, but only the challenger may switch out in the middle of the battle! The use of items is prohibited during the match! The battle is over when all three of one trainer's Pokémon are unable to continue! Do both trainers understand these rules?"

The referee watched both combatants nod before issuing his next command.

"Trainers, please send out your first Pokémon."

Byron sent out his first pokemon, the light of the pokeball stretched across the field just shying inches from his feet. A Goliath of a Pokemon formed, towering upwards towards the ceiling. It definitely was a Pokemon of immense proportions, and none other than o a Steelix. A deafening roar erupted backed with enough power to vibrate the very ground which Isaac stood. Isaac smirked not phased in the slightest by these pre-battle tactics to unnerve him, he tossed his own pokeball to the field.

"Come on out, Empoleon!" in a explosive display of brilliant white light, brought forth a stoic penguin, casually standing before the Steelix with unparallelled audacity as he gave a gaze up at the enormous pokemon, promptly giving a yawn. Byron grumbled to himself pondering if he he might be underestimating this particular challenger. The referee's arm rose to the air holding the starting flag aloft, both trainers were itching at this point to get it on. There it came, with a sudden downward motion the signal was given, and the battle took its awaited toll.

"Alright Empoleon, let's do this! Hydro Pump!" As he gave his command with a smirk, he was fired up for this whole thing, large swirls of water focused in the Empoleon's mouth, followed by a power recoil as the blast shoved his head back a little. The Powerful blast of water erupted out and exploded towards the Steelix. The rock elegantly displayed its nimble motions for such a large creature as it slid a little to the side tilting its head to to the right cleanly evaded the attack. The powerful Steel type growled its jaws open emitting its Screech attack, its strength perfectly visible as transparant waves pulsed from its mouth. The high-pitched sound was unbearable and practically deafening, forcing Empoleon to protect its eardruns for the piercing sound, in order to block out what little he could.

Emploleon's actions had left him wide open to receive an Iron Head attack right to the chest. The loud thud could be heard as the impact came, resulting in the Water type to skid back with a struggle to maintain balanc, however ever managed to keep a firm footing, glaring at his large opponent. Byron smiled and pointed at Empoleon, instructing his Steelix.

"Iron Tail!" Steelix's tail glowed a ghastly shade of red, followed by a barrage of stabs to try maim the Penguin.

Isaac smirked, "Use Aqua Jet to dodge!" The penguin did just that, Empoleons training the other day was paying off, as a furry of stabs from the tail hammered into the ground and each time the penguin successfully hopped out the way, merely making a game of it from what it seemed.

The atmosphere around the Empoleon started to vibrate, it could quite literally be felt by Isaac, crawling along his skin like creepy crawlies, even at his distance. The moisture began to strip around the penguin from the air around him resulting in a wailing wall of water that rapidly rose around his stern body. Once more and with the conviction to succeed the Steelix lashed its tail out, however the raging torrent of the water guided his tail down with his own added momentum, driven harshly into the ground. In effect this outburst of the rock Steelix's aggression had landed him in a vulnerable position having had his tail stuck.

Empoleon foresaw his chance as he extended on Steelix's attack, dashing forward as he used his agility to spring board up of the Steelix's lower body to convey his fist to the opponents chin. The devastating uppercut knocking foes lumbering head backwards and forcing his body to be driven backwards, enough to yank the tail right out of the ground and upturning the earth where it had been embedded. Steelix skidded back along the floor, with a meager attempt to recover in his failed defence he was further unsuccessful to prevent a chained attack which followed up. The helpless Pokemon watched the Aqua Jet that rained upon his rock hardened body, crashing into his torso and sweeping it further back in the water torrent.

Isaac cheered, "That's the way! Don't give him an opening to attack!" Empoleon's excitement rose and so did his confidence, and maybe it was a moment he had lapsed in concentration and got carried away. The water Pokemon focused the power to swirl with water to shape it enough before wanting to deliver the hard blow. Just like a screwed up piece of paper aimed at the waste paper basket, he expelled the blast from his mouth sending a farewell Hydro Pump with full force. The Steelix had been waiting in patience and it was true as it gave him the virtuosos opening he sought. Using his little stream line features of his face that he had, he could take it head on if he angled right, Byron had not raised a fool of a Pokemon, and that much could be clearly seen.

The Hulking serpent charged through the attack as the water redirected of his face to either sides as he bulldozed right through and knocked Empoleon back with a bone crunching Iron Head attack. The Water type's body hurtled away like a hit ping pong ball, his body bouncing of the ground a couple of times before is crashed into the wall,leaving Isaac to gasp. The trainer concern for his Pokemon, painted evidently over his face, and who wouldn't be if it was their Pokemon that had been hit so hard that they had left a impact crater in the wall?

The worry was short lived, Empoleon stood up and cracked his neck. For a creature only a fraction of his opponents size the Penguin was rather smug, and this was Empoleon's way of saying that he was far from done. Steelix's tail stabbed forward like a spear that wanted to impale the blue pokemon. With a decisive action Empoleon fired a Hydro Pump at the floor, launching himself above the Steel type, way out of its range. It was time for Empoleon to go into a league of his own. With a aerial adjustment of his body, he aligned himself perfectly to utilize Aqua Jet in his fold of moves. The water attack roared down its wrath upon Steelix's head like a hammer made of water leaving the monster below stunned a moment. The nimble penguin landed on the dazed Pokemon's snout well above the ground, beginning to take this opportunity to its maximum advantage by charging a Hydro Cannon. It was simply a split second to fully power up his attack, he fired downward, driving its head into the hard rocky earth with a enormous crashing sound, flooring Steelix almost instantly with half its head submerged within the ground.

The powerful Steel type had been reduced to a shadow of its former self, not even having the strength to rise anymore. With the beast out of steam and unable to battle further, the referee raised the dreaded flag of defeat for Byron.

"Steelix is unable to battle! The point goes to Isaac!" An awestruck state had befallen Byron, not only had he not seen this happening but had to admit, even he was taken in my the Empoleans display of agility, dexterity, and power, alas the first round had come to a end. He returned Steelix and smiled, and maybe there was some admiration there for Isaac although he couldn't be sure. In all eventuality this was proving to be a interesting challenge, and within this Byron's excitement also grew to match that of his challenger, knowing that this particular battle would be rather taxing.

The rugged gym leader sent out his heavily armored Magneton, which got Empoleon attention, as far to aspire a gulp from the benevolent creature. There wasn't really any doubt as to why such a response came from the penguin, after all he, and everyone else knew that he would be at a heavy disadvantage if he continued into this round. Empoleon fell back callapsing suddenly, leaving Isaac to frown. Maybe Empoleon had acted a little tougher then he was after being smashed into the wall. Any other pokemon would have been unable to continue, but he'd done a great job by winning the first bout. Isaac withdrew Empoleon, swapping him out for Victor.

The referee raised the flag in his right hand, "Empoleon is unable to battle! The point goes to Byron!"

Isaac chuckled gazing at ehe Pokeball as he returned Empoleon, "Great job out there, buddy." Meanwhile the Gallade stood proud and tall with his arms crossed and his eyes closed. "My turn to fight, huh?" He gave a small chuckle, and definitely soaring with confidence as he took a side on fighting stance, rather pleased it was finally his turn to have some fun.

Isaac sighed, "Just don't overdo it, Victor... please." His comment came with the remembrance of what had transpired in the past, the incident that occurred during his last gym battle. Fantina's Mismagius had been put in critical condition, having to be taken into a emergency room. Victors cruelty had not gone undisciplined, having had both Isaac and Valerie give him a full on verbal scoldeding that day, to which he could never forget. In the present situation Gallade was fully aware of the lines he shouldn't cross, giving his trainer a solemn look back to enforce the masters confidence back in the Pokemons ability to not overstep his bounds.

The referee's signal came promptly to commence the next bout, followed by the thunder of the cheering trainers. Victor was quick off the mark and taking the initiative straight away, wasting no time at all the green Pokemon dashed at his opponent, which accelerated his body to a point it rendered him practically invisible to all but Isaac's honed eyesight. His hawk like vision had been conditioned to such a extent it could easily follow movements at such pace. Magneton's eyeballs rolled around attempting with painstaking attention to isolate the Gallade's position. For a brief moment there was a flicker and enough for Magneton to launch his Thunderbolt, but completely missing in vain. Victor from out of nowhere appeared directly above the levitating opponent, unleashing a downward 'Focus Blast downward. Magneton only just reacted in time, even though he avoided the main attack itself the accompanying explosion that followed threw it body off balance. Magneton stabilized itself mid flight, returning its own reply with a Sonicboom, catching Victor's upper chest, sending him of his feet, however the Gallade managed to perform a back flip to recover and land safely.

The moment Victors feet hit the ground, he channeled enough of his psychic energy to rupture along the ground forcing a cloak of fine dust to rise up between the two combatants, and obscure Magneton's vision. Gallade thrust himself upwards like a rocket into the air summoning the power of Magical Leaf attack, which was expelled in wide bursts into the dust cloud.

The Magneton focused hard but to no availed as the expelled leaves surging with glowing energy came from multiple angles almost like heat seeking missles to find their target. The leaves slintered across the pokemons body as he flinched in some pain. Keeping the pace rolling the Gallade was not one to sit around. He kept on the move darting around the battlefield firing away from different angles to keep the Magneton flustered with relenless barrages of leaves. Victors intention wasn't to pack a punch as the leaves hardly carried anything of a real threat, but this is when sensing played its part. His strategy was simple; buy the time, find the weakness!


Victor's eyes where like that of no other pokemon, he could see what others couldn't. His sight took in all the details, from how his energy flowed to how his movements adjusted the this flow. This was more than enough in most cases to determine where the weak point was, just by seeing where the energy flowed most rigid.

Victor followed his abilities, and belief in himself as gospel. He belived his senses to be key, and true enough to this statement he had done it once more, he had located it. There it is on the top side of the Magneton and 30 degrees behind it. With the focal point of assault established the green renegade of a pokemon lunged at great velocity, reclined his right arm, tensing his triceps and forearm. There was not even a blink of a eye before the Psycho Cut blistered across the invisible X that marked the spot. Magneton winced in pain shuddering heavily, but took the opportunity to pay Victor back for all the previous blows he'd been struck with. The electricity powerfully danced around the Magneton's body with the most powerful Thunderbolt it could manage, forcing a cry of agonizing pain escape the Gallade's mouth.

Isaac gasped, "Victor!" The psychic fighter sustained heavy damage and landed on his side, wincing and yelping as he quickly rectified himself back to his feet, shifting his mass quickly a few meters away from the electric type. Victor groaned in pain, smirking at the Magneton,

"Not bad. You actually managed to hurt me."

"You're too confident. You're going to lose with that kind of attitude." The Magneton chuckled while the electricity began sparking around him, arcing of his body as he prepared to attack again.

"Confidence hasn't failed me yet!" Victor assertively replied, letting the raw intensity of his own electrical storm rage around his fist. Heavy crackling was audible even over the cheers of the crowd. Victor smugly resuming his personally stylized side one stance. There is a wise saying and with so much drawn out of his body already it was time to incorporate it, with that being said a good defense, is a good offense.

Victor observed the Magneton actions with a eye keener than a eagle, and within this same moment he witnessed his opponent's Thunderbolt attack unleashed. Victor extended his his readied fist to draw upon the enemies strength, to make it his own. The Gallade's Thunder-punch excelled within the first contact, attracting the volatile incoming electricity, much like a lightning rod. It was hurting the valiant Gallade even if his cool exterior hid it, the attack itself, didn't do anything to hide its sting from Victor. For a prideful pokemon such as him, pain was a state of mind and his thought waves were far to strong to concede to such trivial displays of pain.

Renewing power embraced his own, doubling that of his own blow, and with that done and dusted the Pokemon felt his oppenents attack end. Just as much as any opportunist gifted with abilities of speed he took his enemy head on. The enigmatic light the burned brightlyfrom Gallades empowered fist could light a entire canyon, he leapt at Magneton who remained in dismay as to how this was even possible. The blow plowed down like a farmer sickle into the magnetic Steel type's weak point before it even had a chance to assess the attack or defend against it. The disc like shape of the creature, sent hurtling out of the battle area into the crowd who only just made it out of the way in time to avoid its cumbersome body from crushing them. It was clearly in no shape in which it could continue.

The Refree's fluttering flag rose in Isaac's favour to award another round to him, leaving Byron to look on at the Gallade with amazement knowing it had achieved a impressive feat in which he had outclassed his own Pokemon. Victor only returned a simple smirk at Byrons stupid expression, was it really that hard to understand for a gym leader that he had just kicked his Pokemon's ass. The thought itself gave great enough reason to muse at Byron's overestimation of his Pokemon's capabilities.

However, nothing goes without saying, that for every action, there is a reaction. For what was known to Victor was that the toll of enduring two Thunderbolts had taken a more than a large chunk out of his body. He had been resorted to unwillingly pant somewhat, his glands forced to release the salty sweat across his body. The strong willed Pokemon had been driven into the usage of his final reserves energy just to keep himself from swaying.

'Damn,' thought Victor, 'I may have to go all out for the next opponent. If the next fight is drawn out for too long I'm going to be in worse shape.'

Byron sent the last of his three Pokemon assault team out, a rigid looking Bastiodon took its position heavily rung with doubt as if it were questioning his own ability. Victor grinned, ear to ear as the glare of the metallic opponent fell upon him. It almost seemed comical to him, provoking him to reply to its appearance.

'This is the Pokémon I have to fight? Boring. I can sense his strength is a joke' Victor raised his fists confidently, pairing him off with this Pokemon drew a lacklustre response in his body language, he wasn't really interested in fighting this opponent seriously. Was this some kind of intended mockery on Byrons behalf or was he real? The referee gave the signal for the fight to begin, and the psychic fighter ran forward at Bastiodon while charging a Thunderpunch, having the full intention of ending this in one blow.

Byron got raised his eyebrow, amused with the Gallades carefree aproach, his smile surfaced his face. "Iron Defense!" Bastiodon body illuminated in a vibrant glow of silvers and whites. Victor delivered the his attack, which he felt was the decisive blow to end this. The rush of pain that came brought the expression of excrutiating pain riddled his face. Victor's body was repelled away in a powerful recoil effect with his own thunder turning on him, sending him clear ten meters of the foe. To make it worse the attack didn't even faze the Steel type.

Victor growled, uncurling the finger of the same hand he had used in the previous attack. Tiny orbs of energy materialised, swirling to the center of his palm, preparing to fire a Focus Blast. The Bastiodon converged upon the Gallade faster then he coud have expected. Giving a small grunt the steel Pokemon responded "Not fast enough!" the Take Down attack came as a perfectly timed assault, slamming Victor into the ground with enough force to send tremors along the ground along with the heavy thudding sound that resonated throughout the stadium.

The heavy burden of the Bastiodon's weight bared down upon the helpless Gallade. Victor groaned, his strength had been sapped to such extent he found the Bastiodon to be a immovable mountain. His physical strength maybe at its point of sheer exhaustion but he still had his latent Psychic abilities to lend him the hand he needed.

Pink energy coated the Bastiodon like a candy wrapper, his body being levitated of the poor Gallade who was using all he had to get the bulky creature of him. Victor rolled out the way in time before his psychic energy caved and the Pokemon crashed down again.

'Shoot,' thought Victor, 'How am I already out of energy? I must have overdone it during the the first attack of this bout, when it back fired.' He stumbled to his shaky feet, panting lightly, due to his mental fortitude he remained adamant about finishing this little tango. The green Pokemon realized his mistake in not taking this creature seriously. Victor pondered how he could have been so naive in judging his abilities. The Bastiodon may have seemed weak but its body was harder then steel, and to top it of his weight was astronomical. This Pokemon didn't need to have amazing moves with a lot of energy, it only needed its solid body. The Bastiodon was built like a tank, but was it already too late to take caution now?

The steel beast smirked and opened his mouth with hostile intent, charging up his next attack as Victor ran at him. Isaac gulped, knowing that Victor had reached the pinnacle of his limit. There was always the option he would withdraw him, but knew that Victor was the type of person that won't give up until he can no longer move. To withdraw him now would severely dent this Pokemons pride. The last time he had resorted to withdrawing the boastful creature he had nearly lost the Gallade's friendship. He had clearly underestimated this foe, and it was a fools folly on his part.

Victor only had one more shot, his body trembled with overexertion, however mustered enough strength to go at the foe with one last attack. His body poured every last ounce of energy into charging a final Thunderpunch. His fist crackled with that familiar noise of rushing electricity, though the attack was flickering, running only on fumes. He placed all his hopes in this final blow making a dash towards the Bastiodon, traversing side to side to try avoid being blasted. Just before Victor got within range to punch, Bastiodon fired Flash Cannon, the blast hitting the psychic fighter square in the chest and knocking him into the air. Victor yelled out in pain as he crash landed on his side, In the end it his efforts where in vein and of no productive use as the darkness came to him, forced the Pokemon to pass out in defeat. But if it was anything, he had preserved his honor as a fighter.

Isaac winced and returned the valiant Gallade to his pokeball, knowing that he wouldn't be able to fight until he was healed. The referee raised the flag in his right hand, "Gallade is unable to battle! The point goes to Byron!" Cheers from those of Byron's understudies rang out from the stands, to implore the level of power displayed by their mentor but part in appreciation of Victor's gallant efforts.

Isaac smiled at the pokeball in his hand, "Not only do you have my respect but gained that of Byron's followers. You did a great job, Victor." Isaac clipped the ball back to its well homed position on his belt.

Isaac's feelings of excitement were almost intoxicating, he was practically tingling from the rush of this battle, his being thriving in the gushing thrill of the challenge brought to him; it was something he rather enjoyed.

"Alright, time to really show 'em what we're made of. Take him down, Staraptor!" Staraptor blasted onto the scene with its extrvant burst of energy, determination of searing flames within its darkened pupils. The falcon like bird cawed at Bastiodon, with eagerness, only matched by his unswayed focus. The Pokemon's body language served to fuel Isaac's own. There was a brief moment in which he would have sworn and crossed his heart were he could see the streams of power that branched out and flowed through the bird Pokemon's body.

This was it, everything was riding on this last battle and of course the enemy hadn't broke a sweat yet. The possibility stood firmly in place that he may loose, but there was a time and place for doubt, and here it had no home. Isaac banished the counter productive thoughts to the back of his mind.

The red flag swooped in a downward motion, as the initiation of this round had been signalled; the final round to conclude this immense battle had come down to this moment. Isaac smiled ear to ear even in this unnerving moment he oozed confidence.

"Alright, go get him, Staraptor. Use Quick Attack to get in close. Throw him off guard with attack pattern seven, then move in, utilizing Close Combat." Staraptor gave a nod to acknowledge and burst forward, the energy trails flowed behind him stylish flare. The bird type traversed in quick motions left to right closing in on the foe, using the time to make a momentary preparation for his offensive skill. Bastiodon's honed eyes followed the bird's movements closely, devising his own counterattack.

Just before the point where Bastiodon thought Staraptor would have charged directly forward, the Flying type sent the spiraling gale at his feet. The steel type shielded his eyes from the dust that was kicked up in a ragin storm. Using this moment, having the enemy blinded the Staraptor took to the air, ascending high above the battle grounds. The airborne bird swan dived at a great velocity with Quick Attack to converge rapidly in the Bastiodon's rear, striking between the creatures spinal ridges.

Within the dust cloud the Bastiodon blindly swung in futile attempts to luckily catch the flying mon, however with such obscure vision it was no easy task. Staraptor launched into a a barrage of melee attacks with Close Combat. Bastiodon wailed in agony flurry of furious strikes sprayed its body, each hit weakening him significantly. After eaxactly thirty hits, the Steel type was knocked scurrying back. Issac threw his fist to the air followed by a inspired cheer nearly jumping in joy. "Yeah! Now lets finish this, Staraptor! Hyper Beam!"

Byron gasped and called out, "Bastiodon, use Flash Cannon!" The two beams violently crashed into one another, the power very equally balanced as neither gained the upper hand. The raw intensity of the two attack building and expanding. Isaac gulped and slowly got into a defensive stance, "This is not going to end well..."

A massive explosion erupted, sending out a violent shock wave that threw both Isaac and Byron of their feet, cascading its overpowering gale force throughout the arena. The two Pokemon combatants caught the worst of the blast's magnitude at its most wrathful. Both of them were thrown clear of each other by a long way. Bastiodon kidding along the ground, his body covered with several burns and bruises as his body came to a halt. Staraptor, being the lighter of the two, was sent hurtling like a baseball into the solid concrete wall underneath the stands. He crashed with enough force to create a impact crater as his body bounced of, leaving some of the wall to crash down on him. Isaac gasped, maternal instincts flooded him, wanting to run to the bird, but stayed put waiting for the referee's decision.

For what seemed like an eternity, all was silent and still. The only thing Isaac could hear was the rapid beating of his heart and the panicked thoughts of Staraptors state flowing through his mind. Then, just before the referee was going to call the battle a draw, Staraptor gave a grunt of pain as he slowly pushed the rubble of his body and rose to his unsteady feet gradually. He gave a short burst of joyed laughter, knowing he had taken this bout. He looked over at his trainer , "Star...ap...tor... Star... I... won... Isa- aptor..."

Isaac blinked a few times consecutively. If he didn't know better he could have sworn that he heard his victorious Pokemon declare his victory with words, he remained contemplating a moment of being stunned. He shook his head and smiled at the Flying mon. The referee raised the flag, and was there really any guessing involved to whom it was in favour too?

"Bastiodon is unable to battle! The match goes to Isaac Fredrickson of Twinleaf Town!" The audience broke out in loud cheers and applause in appreciation for both the contestant, as it was not everyday they witnessed a specticle of this magnitude. He had not only won Byrons repect judging by the expression on his face but that of so many peers within the crowd. Valerie and Amy shot to their feets, completely ecstatic with joy, probably cheering the loudest, he almost felt sorry for those around them who would have their ears ringing for days.

The challenger and gym leader recalled their weary, battle worn Pokemon, both content having had such satisfaction from this. With the battle now over they both began to walk towards the center of the battle field. As Isaac reached the middle the rugged man extended his in a friendly gesture.

"I was wrong about you, Isaac," Byron said, Isaac placed his hand within his as they shook "Your Pokémon are quite strong, and so well in-tune with everything in battle. You've trained them well, and I am happy to give you the Mine Badge."

As Isaac withdrew his hand he noticed while they had shook hands, he had also placed the odd looking badge into his own, he starred down at it. It was a curious looking one, but none the less one that brought him happyness to know how hard his Pokemon fought for it. It was unusual but beautifully crafted consisting of three gems and three pickaxes.

"Thank you, sir," Isaac replied and very much pleased, "And I have to admit, you were my toughest challenge thus far." He bowed politely and turned to leave.

Valerie drew Amy up with her slender arms, cradling her as she carried her to the exit, where they would rendezvous with Isaac. Just like that he was there, plastered with a smile so brimming with life. The girls greeted their trainer offering their congratulating him on his triumphant achievement. Amy was set down to the ground, she could hardly wait to give him his hug as she wrapped her arms around his leg, while Valerie placed her arms around her neck. He could feel her strength and joy as it almost broke his neck, if she'd been any harder, it would be him to be in the hospital bed next. The cuddle session lasted seconds as their little happy convey took to the outside once more, and onwards to the Pokémon Center. Those three Pokemon made him proud and to say anything else would not do them justice. They needed a good rest and recovery that only a well indulged night in the care of Nurse Joy could bring.


~~~*~~~


As Isaac awaited the return of his Pokemon within the same lobby he had been this morning. The Pokemon center had a couple of other trainers waiting for their own Pokemon. It was almost peacful with how quiet it all was, and he didn't mind this for a minute. The Nurses did do their jobs very well and he knew his hard fought trio had been given into great hands.

Now this part of his journey had ended the rest still remained and with so much more left to accomplish his short lived ectasy in the moments of victory had worn past their lifespan. The thought of his impending path bared upon him, and the snake path would ben and wind, as no journey is simply straight forward in life. This road he chose for the Sinnoh League was one that was well traveled by the best of trainer and not many would make it to the great end, some would give up, other defeated on the road, with not just their Pokemon, but their will to be a Master severely bruised. Some of those would merely give up this dream. 'Six badges... six victories... six steps toward my goal I've made... I'm halfway to fulfilling my promise.'

Valerie noticed the serious look on Isaac's face and spoke to him telepathically. ~Isaac... are you alright?~

Isaac sighed and then smiled at the Gardevoir. "I'm fine, Valerie. Just thinking about the journey still to come."

Valerie could tell his unease merely by the way his face portraiyed the picture. A few minutes passed with no further exchange of words as the nurse called Isaac up to the front desk. She smiled politely handing his balls to him, having had his Pokemon now brought back to a hundred percent. Isaac set them down neatly infront of him, expelling the resting mon from their temporary holdings. Victor, Empoleon, and Staraptor, appeared at their full strength, maybe even looked a little stronger but it was hard to say.

The trainer couldn't help but reveal the badge, and to those who did not know where soon brought into the fold of the battle outcome; Victor and Empoleon to be exact, where gleefully enlightend. The immediate reaction he gained was that of excitement as he was swept from his feet being tackled by all three, taken into a solid hug as he hit the ground. He looked at them with the same happyness as he lay there. It hadn't failed them and them likewise, as smiles where shared all around. Isaac laughed and managed to shrug the affectionate tykes of him, eventually getting to his feet.

The Gallade was eager to know what awaited ahead, as he spoke out

"So, what's the plan for the rest of the day, Isaac?"

"Relaxing, Victor... nothing else." He knew the reason Victor was asking was because the Gallade wanted to train more, and Isaac wanted Victor to rest until tomorrow at the least. Victor sighed, disappointed about that, and Isaac frowned from seeing him like that. "Victor, you can train tomorrow, just get some r-"

He froze up as he felt his bag wiggling. He quickly took his bag off his back and pulled the egg out. It was shaking lightly and bouncing around somewhat inside the protective glass enclosure. Isaac smiled as he saw a small crack forming at the top of the egg. "The egg is hatching!"