Silvally

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
Silvally was captivated by the performances of both Fennekin and Deerling. Its head tilted as its maw hung agape. Finally, once the pair seemed finished with their routine, the chimera took a few steps forward. <Vertigo Contest...? Is that what you are practicing for?>

When addressed, Gladion took his hand from his brow, and placed them at his sides, "That was our plan, but it looks like you're making good use of the field."

Looking up at him Silvally let out a questioning chirp, <Might I try?>

The blond's pupils shrunk at his companions words, his eyes darting down with worry. "You just asked if you could do what they're doing, didn't you. Look, I don't even know what it is, and we didn't come here to play around."

The crest atop Silvally's head drooped somewhat as the teen shot down his hopes. An aggravated sigh escaped the blonde's lips as a result, "I hate it when you do that." The boy's green eyes moved from his companion over towards the girl before him, "So, what exactly are you doing?"

Libra the Ralts

[Route 701 - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
With his eyes now on the ground, Olivier laughed a little bit when Michael pointed out that he didn't seem like the traveling type. "Hah... hah... you're probably right. I'm likely better suited for what I plan to do, anyway." Looking up to the pair, a wide smile crossed the teen's maw, "Good luck. Both of you. I hope you accomplish whatever it is you're aiming for. All right Libra, let's head off."

<It was nice to meet you, Maya. I wish I could travel with you, but I do wish you the best of luck. Take care!>

With that, the blonde teen made his way back towards New Amber Town.

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701 - Pokémon Center Exterior]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Tilting his head to look up at the victor, Devon pushed a few stray brown hairs out of his face. "I had fun too man. You're on a whole other level!" The teen's bark colored eyes panned over to the offered bottle, staring at the leafy herb inside with interest. His hand raised up to catch the bottle in mid-air, and then smile at the denim dressed Trainer. "Thanks Brooks. This'll help a lot."

As Brooks walked away and spoke of a rematch, Devon grasped the bottle tight and brought his fist to his chest. The red hooded boy giving a firm nod and a confident smirk in response. "I'm holding ya to that! You're going down next time!" And with that, the man was gone. Devon watched the Noivern's form fade off into the sky for a moment as he waved, looking to his side as his friends rushed out to him. Shock, Quill, and Missy coming up along with them.

A happy grin overtook the scarred teenager's expression as he gently patted the tired Azumarill in his arms. "Heheh, thanks guys. Cyan's something else alright. I never doubted her." At the nice comment, the rabbit smiled gently.

Shock stood up beside his Trainer, tugging lightly at Cyan's new, longer ears and smirking. <That was pretty intense Cyan. You even got an upgrade out of it! You're almost taller than Quill now!>

Quill raised a brow at the comment comparing the two's height, the Azumarill's eyes opening slowly as they both traded glances, before smiling at each other. <It looks like she is.>

Missy hovered close to the injured Fairy, clasping her ribbons together and giving a crooked smile. <You did absolutely amazing Cyan. Your durability is so stunning!>

Giggling a bit, the Water-type finally spoke up. <Thank you! And I know I can only get better! We all can!>

Devon shrugged at Brent's comment, standing up and quickly popping the top off of the herb bottle while snickering. "Well, if we do, they'll probably track us down and nail us with the bill later. Anyways, once I get Cyan patched up, we should head out again. Vertigo City, here we come!" The teen stated with a small fist pump.

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701 - Pokemon Center]

Both Trainers and Pokemon were eager to get moving now that the battle had finally ended. Their first day had been quite an eventful one, and they hoped the second would be as well. "Right. We're ready to go whenever you are." Said Brent. "Mhm, what about you, Celes? You ready? Or you gonna sit there all day?" Lily said with a chuckle.

<I've never seen a battle that intense...> Said Shaymin, still in awe. <I've seen battles like that on TV all the time. Usually they're trainers competing in huge competitions.> Said Cyndaquil. <It's not the last one you'll see, either. Everyone here is going to be in battles just as intense, or maybe even more, at some point. Of course... we've got a long way to go...> Said Chikorita.

Michael's Party: Turtwig, Glameow
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Route 701]

"Hey Bryce, wait up!" Michael yelled as he tried to catch up to the veteran trainer who had gotten ahead of him a fair bit. "Hey, you wanna travel together? After hearing about those Royal Skies yahoos, I'd say there's safety in numbers." He said. "Royal Skies?" Bryce asked. Michael then explained what he had learned the night before. "They sound like a bad bunch to run into, for sure..." He said, thinking for a moment. "Sure, we'd enjoy the company anyways." He said with a smile.

<Was it just me, or did Bryce actually smile... like ACTUALLY smile...> Said Maya, looking over to Striker. <I'm not sure, it's so rare for him to show an actual one that I've forgotten what one looks like...> Striker replied.>

Fennekin, Deerling
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

The ragged trainer held a short conversation with his Pokemon, before asking her what she was practicing for. "Me? Well... I'm... practicing for the Vertigo City Pokemon Contest... It's a Double Performance, and It'll be my first contest ever." She replied. "Do... you not know what a Contest is... I'm sorry, I never got your name."

<Yeah, the Vertigo Pokemon Contest. Like Sierra said.> Said Fennekin. <Now don't be so rude... but yes, it's a Double Performance. You need two Pokemon, which is why we were using our moves together.> Deerling replied.

Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City]

Walking down the already crowded street, sticking out from the crowd somewhat, was a caramel blonde 11 year old girl in a white tanktop and a blue flower pattern Alolan skirt carrying a Popplio in her arms. "This city is so big... I have no idea where anything is... it's nothing like Heahea..." She said, looking down to the Popplio in her arms. "If we could just find a Pokemon Center, or something..."

She continued walking for a while, until her eyes finally caught sight of a rather large building with a Pokeball Symbol on the front. It looked like a Pokemon Center, but she didn't want to make the wrong conclusion in this region that was so strange to her. "Let's look around back. If there's a lot of trainers around a battlefield, I'd think we'd be in the right place." She said, the Popplio in her arms replying. <Yeah, better than walking in on... well... I don't know what Humans really do for fun... bingo maybe?> She said.

The young girl turned the corner and saw a battlefield indeed, occupied by two trainers. "Well, I think this is the place." She said, taking note to try not to interrupt the conversation the two were having.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701 - Pokémon Center]

With wide eyes, Celes looked up at Lily when she spoke, immediately leaping to her feet and gesturing to Ranulf to do the same. "Ready! I was just making sure you guys wanted to leave for real! Kay! Let's go~"

Picking himself up, Ranulf began to stretch, looking over the gathered group, <That was a rather impressive battle. Cyan, was it? Congratulations on your evolution.>

A smile played across the nearby Zoroark's maw, "Indeed. I'm proud of you, Cyan. You must feel better now?" As the rest of Nasir's companions joked around, the stoic Zoroark merely smiled, shaking his head at Shock's backhanded compliment. Some things will never change.

Already making her way out, Celes paused as she turned around, noticing everyone was still standing there. The Azumarill was still wounded, causing the small girl to groan in irritation, "Ugggh, I could've been sitting! Ranulf, can you carry me. Pleeeease?"

<No.>

With the blunt response, the small girl wilted, until she sat upon the ground with her knees splayed outward. "Ooookay, well, let me know when you guys are ready."

All the while, the teen's new Starly watched the scene quietly, seemingly forming opinions on everyone around him.

Silvally

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
"A Pokémon Contest...?" Furrowing his brows, the blonde searched through his memory, trying to recall whether or not he's heard of such a thing. I believe mother used to watch those performances...? I remember not being interested in them...

Green eyes fixing on the girl, he nodded ever so slightly. "I'm Gladion. Now that I've given it some thought, I believe I've seen a Pokémon Contest on television before, but I can't say I'm too familiar with them."

As the Trainers chatted, Silvally carried on its own conversation with the two other Pokémon. <I see. I've never heard of such a thing. Hmmm. Two Pokémon? Gladion could participate, if I could convince him to recall his other companions from Paradise. I doubt he would, though. Well, I doubt I could convince him to participate, anyway...> Trailing off, the Synthetic Pokémon let out a sigh before turning back to the pair, <Though I only have a slight idea of what you both were doing, it certainly was visually pleasing. I'm sure you'll both do wonderfully.>

Upon hearing another voice nearby, Gladion turned to face the voice's owner. A Popplio? What is a Trial-goer doing all the way in Viore?

Silvally too turned to face the newcomer. With a polite bow, it spoke to the Popplio, <You're quite a ways from home.>

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

@Ninian
"Gladion... I'm Sierra, nice to meet you, I think." Sierra said. "And Pokemon Contests, well..." She started when another voice was heard and another trainer arrived. "Pokemon Contest?" Asked the newcomer Luna. "Sorry, I just couldn't help but hear you talking about that. I'm Luna... what's with that look?" She asked, looking at Gladion. "Right, I was about to explain what a Pokemon Contest is... It's different than Gym Battles by far. It has two rounds, an Appeal Performance, and an Appeal Battle."

She began to speak more confidently. "The Performance Round is where a Coordinator shows off their Pokemon by having them perform amazing move combinations that wow the audience. If they make it past that, they make it to the battle round, but it isn't a normal battle. The goal isn't to defeat your opponent, but to outstyle them in battle using moves that make them shine." She finished. "In Viore they're one of the most popular things, next to the Viore League Conference that is..."

"That sounds kinda neat..." Luna said, having been listening the whole time quite intently. "So this Region has these Gyms that are kind of like the Island Trials back home, along with Contests..." She said, now thinking about what exactly she DID want to do here. She'd come to train and get stronger to face the Island Trials again, but now she was faced with a fork in the road.

<I'm here because she's here, and there's no place I'd rather be.> The Popplio stated, jumping down from Luna's arms to look up and meet the gaze of the Sivally before her. <Wait, so your trainer is a veteran but he only brought you? That's kinda weird...> Said Fennekin, with the small group of young Pokemon beginning to crowd around the Sivally. <Be nice, Fennekin... well, I guess she does have a point, wouldn't he want to grow stronger with all his friends?> Deerling asked.

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701 - Pokémon Center Exterior]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Popping the leafy herb into her mouth, the Azumarill's face twisted in discomfort as she forced the herb down. Gasping a bit and sticking out her tongue before smiling at the Zoroark. <Ugh...I'll feel better once the herb kicks in...And I get this taste out of my mouth.>

Giving an apologetic smile to his Aqua Rabbit, Devon patted her head. "Sorry Cyan. We'll grab you a drink on the way out." Looking to everyone, he grinned. "Well? Let's go!"

[Route 701]

After returning most of his party to their respective Poké Balls, (besides Ace and Nasir) the red hooded teen strolled casually down the dirt forest path. His head swaying from each side of the road and taking in the scenery a bit before looking back at everyone else. "So, what's the game plan for when we get there? We should probably scout out a hotel and some Centers first."

Silvally

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
Raising a brow at the girl's odd introduction, the teen thought to himself, 'You think...?'

As the girl explained, Gladion put a hand to his brow, nodding along. "I see..." Once the explanation finished, the teen's green eyes focused on the Alolan. "I wouldn't exactly compare Gyms to the Trials of Alola. Of which, I'm curious. You left the island without completing the challenge? I only know of one other... no, two if you count myself."

Silvally's gaze averted somewhat when asked about their journey. <It's a complicated situation... Gladion's mother is in a coma. He's had to take over her job... but it's been difficult on him. The rest of our companions are either watching over his mother, or taking care of the injured Pokémon back at Paradise...> A frown marred his muzzle, <Gladion never experienced a Trainer's journey. Not in the way most do. He's determined to do it properly this time, and his wish is to bring more Pokémon to Paradise when his journey ends.>

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

@Ninian @Light Lord
After Devon finished caring for his injured Pokemon, the group was on the road again. Devon was already starting to plan a bit ahead for when they reached Vertigo. "That's an easy one for me. Me and my dad pass by the Vertigo Pokemon Center every time we come in from Stormbutte. It has plenty of room for trainers passing through, and it's free. Better than having to pay for a Hotel." Brent explained. "Stormbutte?" Lily asked, looking at her PokeGear Map. "Yeah, it's a city up to the Northeast. It's where most of Viore get their power from too, from the Stormbutte Power Plant." He answered.

"Wow, that's cool. Must be an interesting place to live." She replied. She stealthily looked down at her hand once more, something she had been doing all morning so far off and on, looking to see if that mark had returned. So far, it hadn't, everything was normal. It seemed like it would be a normal trip to Vertigo from here on.

"In Viore's Ancient Past, Ten Humans Were Chosen to Bond With Certain Magical Creatures that Lived Here." Came a Voice. It was a man, shrouded in a cloak sitting under a tree. "These Ten Heroes Would Defeat a Great Evil, Cementing the Safety of Viore For the Future. It Was Said That New Heroes Would be Chosen Should Another Such Threat Arise. It Seems... That Time Has Come..." He said, before standing up and walking past the group. "Excuse Me." He said as he passed by. Soon he was out of sight.

"That was... random..." Said Brent, scratching his head. Lily seemed entranced by the encounter. As the group continued onward, she kept having the feeling that the man was talking to her, but why? <That man was weird.> Shaymin said as the group walked. <Yeah, no kidding... gave me the creeps...> Said Chikorita, looking over her shoulder to see if the man was following them, which he was not. <There's a lot of weird people in this world, that much I know...> Cyndaquil said. <Not all of them though. Some, like everyone here, are nice, kinda normal, and fun to be around.> Chikorita replied.

Michael's Party: Turtwig, Glameow
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Route 701]

"What do you think that guy meant?" Asked Michael, talking with Bryce about the strange man they encountered and the story he'd told them. "Ten Heroes, Ancient Prophecy, seems kinda silly to me." He said, Bryce shaking his head. "Trust me, you might want to rethink that stuff. I never really believed much in the ancient legends in Hoenn, either. But then..." A flashback to Bryce only a few years before as he watched a climactic battle between Groudon, Kyogre, and Rayquaza. "Legends always have truth buried in them. Somewhere."

"Alright... then..." He said. "Look at this..." Bryce stopped and looked around him. Broken Trees and craters littered the area. Fresh Tire Tracks were evident in the dirt. "Something happened here... Let's keep moving." He said. <Wow, one crazy battle took place here...> Striker said. <What makes you say that?> Asked Michael's Turtwig. <Those Trees were slashed clean through. Name one Human Lumberjack who could pull that off. And I can still smell the scent of ash from those craters, a Draco Meteor.> He said. <Yeah... let's get moving in case whatever did this comes back.> Maya said. Glameow took in everything but remained silent, keeping close to Michael.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

@Ninian
"Oh, me... well... you can't say I didn't complete A Trial..." She said, moving her arm over to the Z-Ring on her wrist which held Waterium-Z. "After my first trial, I just decided that it didn't feel right for me at the moment... so I decided to travel to somewhere I'd never seen. And, after a few boat trips, here I am." She said, taking note of Gladion's Z-Ring. "It's not something written in stone that you have to finish ALL of them if you want to leave Alola. I'm free to go wherever I want to, as long as my Pokemon are with me."

"I've never seen something like that before..." Sierra said, looking at the Z-Rings both trainers carried. "I'm not surprised, it's an Alolan Custom. I... could show you... would you like to help me demonstrate... Gladion was it?" She asked, proposing a battle with the veteran trainer.

<Wait... you'd have me battle... him?> Torrent said, her pupil's shrinking as she truly took in her would-be opponent. Ignoring her for the moment, the two Pokemon of Sierra's continued the earlier conversation. <A Coma? That's so... sad... and I guess wanting to make new friendships on a journey is a good thing.> Deerling said, the Fennekin jumping forward. <So... what happened?> She asked bluntly. <Fennekin! I'm so sorry...> Deerling said, jumping in front of the Fire Fox and pushing her back. <You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to... Apologize Fennekin!> She said. <Ow! Hey! Stop It! Alright! I'm... sorry...> She said.

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
When Luna mentioned she completed a trial, the teen's gaze fell to her Z-Ring, as well as the Waterium-Z. "I suppose I can understand that." When the contest-goer spoke up, Gladion's focus shifted to her. Raising his arm up to give the girl a proper look at his Z-Ring and Steelium-Z, he then glanced at the Alolan when she requested a demonstration. Considering for a moment, he took stock of the Popplio's expression before pulling a case of CDs from his pouch pocket. "If you'd like for your Popplio to perform Hydro Vortex on Silvally, that can be arranged. However, a proper battle will have to wait." Pulling out a Green-colored disc from a sleeve, Gladion moved to Silvally, popping open the drive on the side of its head, and switching discs.

Once pushing the drive back inside of the Pokémon's head, Silvally's eyes widened as new memories flooded its mind. The parts of its body that were formerly red now, in an instant, became a bright shade of green.

Taking a moment to recover from having its memories swapped, Silvally closed its eyes, letting out a sigh. Finally, they'd address the Fennekin's question. <Talking about the matter does not bother me in the slightest, though I cannot say the same for Gladion. His mother is currently comatose due to the neurotoxins left from when she merged with a Beast. Now then.> Green eyes focused upon Torrent, <I believe your Trainer would like to demonstrate your Z-Move. Do not feel the need to hold back.>

Making his way towards one side of the battlefield, Gladion gestured for Silvally to take its place. "Silvally! Let's demonstrate to Sierra the power of Alola."

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Celes somehow managed to convinced Ranulf into carrying her as the group pressed onward. She remained oddly quiet at first, staring up at Ranulf with a large grin. However, that grin faded when she heard an unexpected voice coming from nearby.

Nasir, and Ace who perched himself on Devon's shoulder were equally startled by the cryptic speech. Who is that man...? What is he referring to? ...I hope he does not mean Devon. I will not allow for him to get caught up in something so dangerous... The illusion fox would narrow his gaze at the man as he walked past the group, but it did not last long as he disappeared shortly after.

"Um. I'm not imagining things, am I?" <You're not.> The small girl looked up at the Dragonite with wide, confused eyes before looking over the rest of the group who seemed equally stunned. "At least he's gone now..."

With creased brows, Nasir muttered to Devon, "I do not like what that man is implying. Perhaps it was a mistake to come here."

From Devon's shoulder, Ace replied, <I wouldn't worry about it. He's probably just crazy.>

Shaking his head, the Zoroark averted his gaze. "Perhaps, but I do not get that feeling..."

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
The wild haired teen listened in as Brent discussed one of Viore's many cities. However, a new voice stole his attention, head flicking to his right to look at the strange prophecy spouting man with a raised brow as the man passed by them. Was that guy talking to us? And what he said...That sounded like some sort of prophecy.....How would he know it's coming true?

Devon's gaze remained on the shrouded man as he disappeared over a hill. When the Illusion Fox next to him expressed his worry of the strange man's implication, the red hooded Trainer faced him and nodded his head. "I definitely got some weird vibes from that dude. I'm not gonna let it scare me though."

Turning his head over to gaze at Brent with a curious glint in his eyes, Devon shoved a hand in his front pocket. "Hey Brent, Viore's a place that's known for it's deep history and legends right? What that guy said sounded a lot like some kinda prophecy. A really old one." Pointing to the Starly on his shoulder, the assuming teenager continued. "'Magical Creatures' is what they called Pokémon in the old myths that get passed around Sinnoh. They're hundreds of years old. Do you know of any other stories that sound like the one he said? Like one that also talks about 'certain magical creatures'?"

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

@Ninian @Light Lord
While everyone seemed skeptical and unsure about the mystery man as they kept moving, Devon seemed curious about what he meant. "You don't have to tell me that, my dad's Professor Maple's right hand man." He said, closing his eyes for a moment and thinking. "What that guy said, it sounded like an old bedtime story my dad told me when I was younger... I never really paid attention to it, so I don't remember it much. He'd be the one to ask about that kind of stuff." He said. "You don't believe in a lot of those legends, do you?" Asked Lily.

"Can't say that I do. I will say that there's always something to them, but most of the stuff they say is so wild and out there that it seems so exaggerated. Like Arceus. I couldn't even imagine a single Pokemon creating the entire universe, just doesn't sound like it's possible." He replied. "I guess it does sound kind of extreme... but there has to be something behind it if it gets remembered after all this time, don't you think so guys?" Lily asked in response.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

@Ninian
The two watched in confusion as Gladion seemed to open up something on Silvally like a CD Drive, taking out a disc and replacing it with another. And in a moment, the Pokemon's color changed. "What did he just do to it... is that even a Pokemon?" Sierra wondered in her mind as she and her Pokemon moved off of the battlefield. "You sure? Okay, let's go Torrent!" She said, happily moving to her side of the battlefield. <Oh, I hope I don't screw this up...> Torrent said as she took her place in front of her trainer.

Luna reached to her Z-Ring and touched the crystal there. "This one's kinda embarrasing looking to me, so we don't use it very much, but here goes!" She said as she began moving in her stance, performing the activation motion for the Z-Move. Sierra watched as the air turned serious and the aura between the trainer and her Pokemon was clearly visible. "Alright, Torrent, Hydro Vortex!" She called out, her partner unleashing the Water Type Z-Move on the Silvally. The Pokemon was lifted into the massive whirlpool, afterwards Torrent quickly struck multiple times at the Pokemon before a flash of light ended the Z-Move, the remaining water droplets falling to the ground.

Torrent fell back down to earth on her side of the battlefield where she began, clearly exhausted by the endeavor. Both trainer and Pokemon looked across the battlefield to see what had become of Silvally.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
At Devon's words, Celes chimed in, "I'm not scared! More... confused? I guess? It's just all kind of weird..."

The others in the group discussed legends, and Celes stared up at Ranulf, pondering. "Doesn't Blackthorn have legends too? I can't really remember them, though. Prrrobably because I didn't pay enough attention..."

Putting a paw to his chin, the Dragonite furrowed his brows. <There are a few, yes. Mainly about the creature dwelling in the seas to the west. Ah, and of course the creatures reborn from ashes.>

"Hmmm... I guess that's different, huh..." Thinking for a moment, she furrowed her brows at Brent's words, "Wait... there's a legend about a Pokémon who created like... everything? That sounds so uh... unbelievable, but I bet it's true. It actually would make a lot of sense if it were."

While the humans conversed, Nasir was deep in thought. Perhaps once of these Magical Creatures is the one I seek? The one that can bring back June...? Ah, but that would be too easy, wouldn't it..."

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
Falling gracefully from the vortex, Silvally landed before standing proud; a wince barely noticeable upon its visage. Taking a few moments to regain its strength, the now-Grass-type made its way over towards the Popplio with a smile. <Brilliantly executed!> With a small frown, the chimera noticed how drained the Popplio seemed to be. <Hmmm. Are you all right?>

Gladion was smiling slightly as well as the move completed, his green eyes falling upon Sierra. "That is a Z-Move. There's a crystal associated with each element, as well as special ones designed for specific Pokémon. My father's research indicated that the source of the crystal's power came from energy leaking over from another dimension. Why it manifests the way it does, your guess is as good as mine."

Addressing Luna once more he continued, "You shouldn't be embarrassed by the Z-Move Dance. It's symbolic to the people of Alola."

Michael's Party: Turtwig, Glameow
Bryce's Party: Moss the Swampert, Striker the Manectric, Maya the Flareon*
[Route 701]

Leaving the remains of whatever battle had taken place far behind, the two trainers continued to converse. "So you've competed in not one, not two, but three Pokemon League Tournaments? That's amazing, you must be a really good trainer!" Michael said, now beginning to admire the veteran trainer. "Well I never did very well... I've never gotten past the Top 32. But my Pokemon enjoy it, and that makes me happy." Bryce replied.

"Well, at least you never give up. That shows you've got spirit, determination, whatever you call it." He said, causing Bryce to think for a second. He'd all but given up on his dreams. He'd failed so many times his spirit had been crushed, his determination simmered away. Or so he'd thought. Why was he here again? If what he thought was true, why was he still moving forward? "Thanks... that's really inspiring to hear, I mean that." He said.

Striker was still thinking about what they had seen earlier. <I only hope that it wasn't poachers...> The very word made Maya stop in her tracks for a moment. <P-Poachers? Y-Yeah, I hope it wasn't...> She stuttered, quickly increasing her pace until she was side by side with Bryce. <I'm guessing from how she reacted that she has a history with that breed of human.> Glameow said, having fallen back with the other Pokemon.

<Yes... back when she was an Eevee, she was mercilessly hunted by a Poacher. It was by chance that Bryce came across her beaten and exhausted. Me and Moss fought off the poacher when he attacked, and he was later captured by authorities, but something like that... it leaves scars... some you can't see... even Moss understands that...> He explained. Hearing this even left Turtwig speechless, as the group continued on.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

@Ninian
Luna smiled, walking onto the battlefield and picking Torrent up in her arms. <Yeah... I'll be... fine... just need to... catch my breath...> She said as she closed her eyes, relaxing in her trainers arms. "Maybe... but I still find it kind of silly..." She said, looking at Silvally whom seemed concerned about Torrent. "She'll be okay, she's not as well trained as you are, using that takes a lot out of her." She said as she felt the Popplio fall asleep in her arms.

"That was amazing, really amazing! I could literally see the aura connecting you two, that's incredible! I had no idea..." She said, taking in what Gladion had said about his father's research. "I'm not too sure what you mean by that, but it sounds cool." The girls entire personality had changed in a moment, such an extraordinary sight had filled her with so much excitement. "You've got one of those too, don't you Gladion? What does yours look like?" She asked.

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Everyone's opinion on the subject of legends that speak of a 'higher power' caused Devon to shrug and smirk, and pat Ace on the head lightly. "I grew up with the thought that anythings possible. Stories about Arceus and the Creation Trio sound totally believable when you realize that we make friends with super powered creatures that can shoot lasers and cut boulders clean in half everyday." As he finished his statement, he grinned over at Nasir.

The red hooded teen then looked back to Brent as he continued walking. "Can I get your dad's number later then? I just wanted to ask him if there were any legends about Shaymin around here, since it's a pretty rare Pokémon, that might be what that guy meant by 'certain' ones."

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
Luna's words did little to ease Silvally's concerns, however, it took a seat next to his Trainer, its green eyes looking up at him.

The girl's excitement caused a small smile to play across Gladion's lips for a moment until she asked about his Z-Crystal. The corners of his mouth dipped into a frown, as he looked away. "I do. It's for Steel-typed attacks. The Pokémon, in my case my Lucario, would twist itself into a powerful steel drill, mercilessly chasing after its opponent until its attack connects. Apologies that I'm unable to demonstrate this. I only have Silvally here with me..."

Looking up to its Trainer, Silvally tilted its head before speaking to him, <Leaving him behind was for the best. Your mother needs someone to care for her, and Lucario's Psychic abilities are second to none.>

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

Brent shrugged at the replies. "Anyone can really write something down, get people to believe it, and make it last for centuries. For me, it's not that I don't believe in it, but I just want proof before I put my full faith in a few words." He said, looking at Lily and Shaymin. "That said, I'm not sure if you'll find any direct legends to Shaymin. Legends like the ones my dad looks into are before Pokemon were even called Pokemon. And a lot of Legends of Viore are... well... lost. Either they were accidentally lost or purposefully locked away, that's what Maple and Dad are looking into."

Lily listened intently. "So there's still a lot this region doesn't know about their own history? That's weird, but cool at the same time." She said. <I'd be able to tell you about that stuff... if I was hundreds of years old.> Shaymin said sarcastically. <I know that my kind had some kind of purpose, but no one really knew what.> She finished, scratching her head as she flew alongside Lily.

The air grew somewhat silent as the group came upon the remains of what appeared to be an intense battlefield, the same that Bryce and Michael had passed through earlier. "This place looks like the battlefield back at the Pokemon Center... except... more careless destruction..." Said Brent. Lily looked around, seeing the neatly sliced trees and assorted craters around the area. "What happened he-" She stopped as a rustling in a nearby bush caught her attention. "Something's there..." She said, causing Brent and their Pokemon to stop and look. It was a light rustling, as if something was passing through. The Pokemon jumped in front, to guard against any potential danger.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Seeing his response to her question, Sierra's enthusiasm quickly vanished as she pulled back somewhat. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to..." She tried to say. Luna, seeing the situation beginning to turn somewhat somber, decided to try and lighten the mood. "Well, Torrent's going to be out for a little while, so how about I show you the rest of my team?" She said, pulling three Pokeballs from her bag. "Come on out everyone!" She cried as she tossed them all into the air, each releasing the Pokemon held inside one after another.

The first to be released was a pure white Vulpix, the second a young Rockruff, and the third a cheerful Bounsweet. "These are Flake, Hound, and Sola." She said, gesturing to each one. "Wow, even here in Viore these Pokemon are super rare! I've never even seen an Alolan Vulpix in person!" Sierra said, kneeling down to get a good look at her team. <Hello.> Flake said quietly. <Hiya! Nice to meetya!> Hound said with energy while bouncing up and down. <What they said... I see Torrent probably used Hydro Vortex again...> Sola said, taking note of the slumbering Popplio in Luna's arms.

[???]

"So you two failed to capture The Gratitude Pokemon, and also defied my orders. I wanted no combat against the trainers." Said a man with a rather large build. "Sire, they were an unexpected variable, and they were interfering with our-" One of the grunts started to reply. "Silence. Your ignorance is what is not tolerated in this organization. You didn't think I wouldn't be watching your progress, did you?" He said, holding up a tablet that gave him a first person view of what the grunts had done.

"Sire, please, give us another chance. It was the heat of the moment! We haven't even told you about the abnormally strong trainer we encountered!" The other grunt pleaded. "I said sil- abnormally strong trainer?" He asked. "Yes... Sire... he was strong enough to take on both of our teams with only two Pokemon..." The first grunt replied. "And... I believe he executed Mega Evolution... on a Pokemon not known to be capable of it." The second grunt continued.

The large man put his hand up to his chin in thought. "Interesting... this information may serve us well... I'd heard reports from the other Admins about a rather strong trainer who's been poking around." The grunts looked at each other. "So... what will happen to us now?" One of the grunts asked. "As... useful as this information is... your actions are inexcusable. You will be sent back to base for reconditioning." He said, and with a snap of his fingers, the grunts were restrained. "Take them away." He said.

As the group left, he returned to his vehicle, turning on the video screen to show a live feed of another man. "Elite, what have you to report?" With a sharp salute, the man responded. "Sire, we engaged The Victory Pokemon, as ordered. It put up quite a fight, and the outcome... you've seen the morning news, haven't you?" He replied. "Ah, I had my suspicions. What became of the target?"

"The target managed to escape into a populated area. We did not pursue, to avoid collateral damage." The man nodded. "Copy that. Meet me in Vertigo, I'll bring you up to speed on recent developments here." The man on the video gave one last sharp salute, and the image ended. The man, now in the drivers seat of the vehicle, put it in drive and began heading for Vertigo in the morning sunlight.

Celes' Party: Ranulf the Dragonite, Mist the Dratini
Devon's Party: Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly

[Route 701]

@Shiny Keldeo@Light Lord
Putting a finger to her lip, the small girl stared at the Grass-type known as Shaymin, "That's kind of weird that they don't have anything on Shaymin. Oh! Ranulf, maybe you can ask Shaymin yourself! I bet it knows!"

Shaking his head, the Dragonite replied, <It doesn't seem to know itself.>

"Rrrrreally!? So like... it... you mean it doesn't know anything about all of this? If it's involved in some legend, you'd think it would know..."

<Apparently not...>

The Zoroark who had been quiet spoke up to the pair in response, "Apologies for intruding into your conversation, but it would seem this legend was forgotten hundreds of years ago. Perhaps they believed their purpose to be fulfilled? If so, there would be no reason to pass on such knowledge."

Once finished speaking, the Zoroark stopped in his tracks, fur standing on end as he took note of the devastation. Noting that something was still there, the Zoroark immediately leapt in front of the group, erecting a prismatic, PROTECT!

Ranulf skidded to a stop, Celes flailed and let out a surprised shriek, "ISEVERYTHINGOKAY....AH! What!? What happened!?"

Silvally: Grass Memory

[Vertigo City - Pokémon Center]

@Shiny Keldeo
The now downcast teen placed his hands on his hips, watching as the Alolan released her companions. "I see. You've already assembled a balanced team. Your Gym Challenge should go smoothly."

Giving a salute, Silvally chirped, <Greetings! It's a pleasure. As for your friend, yes, she was demonstrating the power of Z-Moves to this Trainer.> With its nose, it'd gesture towards Sierra.

Devon Lyton

Shock the Ampharos, Cyan the Azumarill, Quill the Monferno, Missy the Mismagius, Nasir the Zoroark, Ace the Starly
[Route 701]

@Ninian@Shiny Keldeo
Frowning at the revelation that his question probably didn't have an answer, Devon shook his head at the Zoroark and sighed lightly. "Nah, it's ok Fuzzy. I'm just really curious now, but I guess I'm not gonna find an answer unless I dig for it."

The rustling in the bushes caused the scarred teen's focus to shift to the tree line, stopping in his tracks and shifting towards it as his brown eyes looked to the grey starling on his shoulder. "It might be a Pokémon...Stay sharp guys. Ace, this could be your time to shine dude." Raising a thumb up, he smiled. "I know you can do it."

Brent's Party: Cyndaquil
Lily's Party: Chikorita
[Route 701]

@Ninian @Light Lord

The group had all eyes trained on the bush now. After the experience last night, they were on edge for anything. Then came a sound from whatever was in the bush. To the humans, it sounded like a low growl. To the Pokemon, it was something much more. <S-stay back... I-I mean it... I d-don't want to fight...> Came the voice from the bush. The two Pokemon on the ground lessened their guard and looked at each other. <That doesn't sound like something big and bad...> Cyndaquil said. <Yeah... hey... who are you? We aren't here to fight you... Nasir, drop your barrier.>

The bush rustled a bit more, and a form finally emerged. It was a Shinx, a very young one at that. <Y-you promise?> The Shinx said as it emerged. "Phew, it's just a Shinx. They're really common in this area." Brent said, turning to walk off. "Wait. Look at it..." Lily said, making Brent take a second glance at it as Lily held up her Pokedex. "Shinx, the Flash Pokémon. When it senses danger, the hairs on its body light up and it runs away, leaving its opponent dazed." The machine replied with the 3D Image of the Pokemon. "Look how beat up it looks..." She pointed out.

Brent turned and looked at it again, seeing the small Flash Pokemon covered in bruises, and with a limp in its front left paw. <You don't look so good... are you okay?> Asked Cyndaquil, taking a step forward which caused the Shinx to step backward. <Cyndaquil, wait. It's okay, Shinx, you can trust us...> The Shinx shook its head nervously, keeping its eyes on the Humans. <H-how do I know that? After what that man did to my...> It started, but it backed up another step, stepping on its front left paw and wincing from the pain.

Lily watched the young electric type wince, and would then kneel down with her hands visible, unable to watch the pained Pokemon suffer any longer. "It's okay... I won't hurt you. That must really hurt, doesn't it? I can help you." She said in a light voice, keeping eye contact and keeping her hands out and visible. The scared Shinx looked at her, not yet trusting but curious.

Sierra's Party: Fennekin, Deerling
Luna's Party: Torrent the Popplio, Flake the Vulpix, Hound the Rockruff, Sola the Bounsweet
[Vertigo City - Pokemon Center]

Sola rolled her eyes as the Silvally explained the situation. <Oh, Sola's mad now... Torrent did it again!> Said Hound, bouncing around the group. <I'm not mad... Torrent still isn't ready to handle such a powerful move... as you can see it takes just about everything she has.> She said. The white Vulpix stepping forward next to her. <Sola acts like the mother of our group. She really cares about the well being of everyone.> Flake replied.

<Well someone has to... Arceus knows Hound isn't going to anytime soon...> She said, Hound poking his head out from behind a bush. <What?> He asked blankly. <You have a point there...> Flake replied.

"You really think so? They helped me pass my first Trial... barely... I'm not sure if we're really ready for many challenges yet..." She said, gingerly rubbing the top of Torrent's head. "I'm not sure about my first Contest here, but I'm still going to give it everything I've got. I've waited so long for this chance, I have to give it my all, for me and my Pokemon." Sierra said, kneeling down next to her Pokemon.