Chapter 40 - Combat and Diplomacy
Lost Little Raichu
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Chapter 40
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Combat and Diplomacy
Starlight grinned. “Would you like to hear something funny and sad at the same time?”
Darkrai blinked. Why was this pony interested in jokes before a battle that would decide the fate of their country?
“We were willing to convince Nica to accept your offer in order to stop her suffering. The torture you put her through in her dream, it was all for nothing in more ways than one,” Starlight commented with anger clear in her voice.
Darkrai kept staring at her before massaging his forehead. His ambition, his plan to bring pokemon to Equestria and share the gift of magic with them as they would form a nation of their own. All beyond his reach. And now it turns out that the ponies were willing to convince the Raichu to accept his offer and return home. All the torture he put his saviour through, all meaningless?
He started staring at the horizon in distance. His conviction, his determination to accomplish his goal had been weakening with each encounter with Nica. Everytime he made her suffer, part of him felt regret and guilt. Even after offering pokemon a chance to improve and become something greater didn’t seem to win their loyalty as they turned against each other. What if Luna was right? What if his failure at conquering Canterlot took away his opportunity to take over Equestria, and his efforts afterwards were meaningless?
Starlight’s expression softened a little as she stared at him curiously. “I would feel bad for you if I didn’t hate you. Now, will you step down and surrender, or do we need to do this the hard way?”
Darkrai shook his head. Don’t say foolish things, pony. I went too far in order to achieve my goal. You expect me to believe that you and those I hurt would extinguish their flames of hatred so easily if I simply surrendered? He tightened his other fist and shook it. No, this battle needs to last until one side can fight no more.
“Stop!”
Darkrai turned towards the source of the voice and raised his hand over his forehead, noticing two more figures descending from the sky.
“Your mentor who summoned you, Chrysalis, is in our custody. Forget what she taught you and cease fighting,” Thorax said as he hovered above the ground, his horn aimed and charged.
“Thorax had told me what you have been doing all this time,” Cadance said as a blue aura surrounded around her horn. “I hurried to Ponyville as quickly as I could to aid my sister in law. I had no idea I would encounter you so quickly.”
Darkrai narrowed his eyes. He raised his hand, charging ‘Dark Pulse’ before unleashing it.
“Cadance, watch out!” Twilight shouted as she launched herself into the air.
Cadance raised a bubble over herself and her changeling ally as the wall of black flames scattered against it.
What? Darkrai thought in shock. This wasn’t an ordinary barrier which melted upon contact with dark magic, but something that resisted it.
“Thank you,” Thorax said before shooting a green fireball towards Darkrai’s dark orb of gathered magic. Darkrai's attempt to evade failed as two pegasi grabbed both of his hands, keeping them in place with all their might.
The moment the gathered magic vanished in green flames, Darkrai felt cold as the lower part of his body ended up covered by ice. He glanced behind, seeing two beams of freezing magic immobilizing him. With a wave of his hand, he summoned ‘Dark Void,’ which caught Twilight and Starlight, leaving them deep asleep as the alicorn slammed into the roof with her head and belly. Perfect, now all I need is to use the move ‘Nightmare’ on them and next recover my wounds with ‘Dream Eater.’ His plan was ruined as a large surge of pain overcame his chest. Cadance’s beam of magic caused even more damage than Celestia’s spell.
Rainbow Dash and Whindy Whistle grabbed both Twilight and Starlight, taking them out of his reach.
Cadance’s magic… it feels as if I was fighting a fairy type. What makes her more dangerous than Luna is that she can not only take the hit, but dish it too. This I didn’t predict. He looked at his hands. Losing most of gathered magic was also unexpected. Those creatures kept improving their strategy with each battle and are finding weaknesses of my magic. Summoning black flames, he burned away the ice and made a hole in the ceiling before levitating into the castle.
Using the shadows of the hallway, he hid his presence, waiting for the alicorn to pass by. He started passing door after door while hearing the noise of battle between his servants and the parents of the Element Bearers.
“Are you sure they’ll be alright?”
“Of course they will. Rainbow Dash is with them.”
Darkrai turned his attention towards a nearby closed door. I can no longer afford to take any chances and underestimate my opponents. Hostages will give me the edge I need. After charging an orb of power in his left hand, he slammed the door with his right hand and levitated inside, hearing the screams of panicked ponies.
Three fillies grabbed and held each other, trembling.
The pegasus responsible for taking care of animals held Nica with her forelegs. She covered her with her wings protectively. “S-stay away…”
Dr. Fauna took a fighting stance with an angered dog growling by her side.
Another Raichu jumped from the bed, landing ahead of doctor and the dog. Her eyes narrowed as bolts of electricity were escaping not just from her cheeks but also from her tail.
You’ll serve me as hostages. Cooperate and no harm will come to you, Darkrai spoke in each mind as he raised hand, charging up a dark orb in preparation for an attack.
Nica pushed herself from Fluttershy’s embrace, yelping in pain while landing on her face. She pushed herself to a standing position with three trembling legs before raising her tail defensively. She grit her teeth as her tail shone in a metallic grey for a few seconds before returning back to normal.
<Stop it Nica, save your strength!> Nica's mother said before unleashing 'Thunderbolt,' aiming for the black orb. Darkrai blocked the electricity with his other hand, not allowing it to destroy his means of attack. A small burn appeared on his arm. <Leave my daughter and her friends alone you monster! No one wants your conquest!>
Darkrai looked at the hostile Raichu. You call this an attack? You may be her mother, but your power is nothing in comparison.
Nica's mother jumped towards his arm, grabbing and biting it with her teeth before attacking with another 'Thunderbolt' as a bright spectacle forced the ponies to cover their eyes.
I summoned you and I can send you away, begone! With a shake of his hand, Darkrai pushed the Raichu onto the floor, whose strength wasn’t big enough to even hold to his arm. It became obvious that this Raichu didn’t experience many battles. With a snap of his fingers, he summoned small rune under the inexperienced pokemon.
Raichu looked turned towards her daughter, stretching her forepaw towards her, <Protect my daughter, plea!> vanishing from the room. The rune on the floor disappeared as well.
Nica growled before once again attempting to call upon her 'Iron Tail,' losing balance as the result. She stood up on her three trembling legs before gritting her teeth. Small bolts of electricity appeared on her cheeks and disappeared just as quickly. Her breathing hastened as great suffering was painted on her face.
Darkrai struggled not to look away. The very pokemon who saved him in the past and ruined his recent plans was still willing to defend the ponies. To make matters worse, her body was covered in bruises from top to bottom, her tail and body mangled and dry, sapped of energy, while one rear leg was lying flat on the floor. Her eyes were like a bridge into her soul showing nothing but pain and desperation. Those were the eyes of a broken pokemon, both physically and mentally.
You do realize that you’re standing by your willpower alone. I drained your life-essence while invading your dream, something I didn’t do intentionally but had no control over. He levitated closer and aimed his dark orb. No pokemon would dare to fight in such a condition, let alone remain conscious. There’s no more power in you that improves your durability. In the worst case scenario you’ll die. In the best… your tail will melt permanently. Are you still willing to defy me in such a shape?
Nica glanced at her tail in worry, observing it for a few seconds before narrowing her eyes. She looked back at him and nodded. <I… I do… I’m tired… I want all this…> She took a few quick breaths, <all this fighting to stop… but I don’t care what will happen to me… I won’t let you hurt…> Another breath. <I won’t let you hurt the innocent Fluttershy and those cute fragile fillies!> Her body shook left and right as she nearly lost her balance, using her tail for support before raising it defensively again.
And you’re willing to sacrifice even your own tail? Darkrai asked, each of Nica’s words draining away his motivation to fight.
<I… I do…> Nica gulped. <I may lose my favorite, loveable tail, something which I used to shield so many pokemon and people, saved so many lives. I’ll become less useful and crippled… but I prefer it over letting you harm others…> Her clenched forepaws trembled as her voice alone showed signs of suffering.
Apple Bloom jumped in front of Raichu. “Nica saved mah life. If ya want to hurt her, ya need to go through me!”
Fluttershy rounded them both and spread her wings protectively as her body was shaking in fear. “I won’t let you hurt her anymore, you meany. She protected us all this time, now it is my turn to protect her. I won’t let you melt her cute long tail she loves using so much!”
Darkrai levitated backward, staring back in confusion. Were those ponies really willing to sacrifice their own life to protect a pokemon. Wasn’t she just a pet to them?
“Leave Nica alone!”
Darkra levitated to the side, evading Applejack’s slam as the mare pressed her hooves into the floor, stopping in front of him.
“Ah owe mah sister’s life to Nica. Ya’ll get to them over mah dead body!” Applejack shouted, her fur covered in cuts which added to the intimidation factor.
Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo stepped from behind Fluttershy hesitantly, sitting next to Apple Bloom.
Dr. Fauna gulped, too afraid to move. Winona didn’t show any signs of fear as she barked at Darkrai, now standing next to Applejack.
Mr. Patrick climbed up Winona, hissing at him from the top of her head.
Darkrai’s hand started to tremble. Was he wrong about the ponies? It was nothing like Chrysalis described them. Thus far they proved themselves so much different then Chrysalis, fighting side by side with the pokemon rather than command her to do the dirty work, and now they lined themselves to protect her. He slammed his fist against the wall as it cracked from the impact. Was there any point to his conquest anymore?
Nica rounded the ponies, pulling her broken leg as she looked at him with a firm stare. There seemed to be a flame of determination lit in her oval pupils. <You don’t want to fight us… do you?>
What are you talking about?
<I can sense it. Hesitation, guilt, depression, resignation.> Nica’s body started to shake as Applejack supported her with her shoulder. <Ever since you entered this room, I could tell there was little will to fight left in you.>
Darkrai mentally sighed. I admit, I start believing more and more that my conquest is no longer achievable. This is my final stand. Either I achieve my goal or fall trying.
<Stop it!> Nica shouted as tears fell down her cheeks. <Pokemon and ponies can live peacefully! We can adapt to magic through hard work rather than stealing it. No one wants your conquest!> She pointed accusingly before tilting forward, but the farm mare kept her from falling over.
Darkrai levitated forward, which alerted Applejack and her dog. I don’t want to fight a lost war. I don’t want to hurt when conquest is out of reach, but I can’t turn back. Ponies will never forgive me. They’ll hunt me relentlessly. I caused too much harm to make peace.
<You’re wrong!> Nica lowered herself to three legs and forced a step forward, not daring to take her eyes away him. <Ponies are too forgiving for their own good. I heard stories of many villains they reformed. Peace isn’t out of reach.> She took a deep breath. <I’ll… I’ll speak in your favor, but I beg you, stop this pointless fight. It serves no one!>
Fluttershy gulped and nodded. “Nica speaks the truth.” She held forehoof on her chest. “Make the first step and stop fighting, forgiveness and peace isn’t yet out of reach.”
Applejack gasped. “What? Ya kiddin’, ya want to forgive this monster after he tried to kill our families?”
Fluttershy shot Applejack an angered glare. “Nica is the one who begs for it. I know it is hard, but at least try to hold back your anger for her. Let’s get this nightmare behind us.”
Applejack frowned. “Ugh… fine.”
Darkrai narrowed his eyes as he glanced between ponies and next looked down at the determined pokemon. Am I to believe that you will forgive me too?
Nica grit her teeth as more tears fell down her cheeks. <M-maybe one day… I’m still mad at you… but I just want this nightmare to end.>
“I found him!” Rainbow Dash shouted as she landed at the entrance, the damaged door was lying on the floor. “Hey, leave Fluttershy alone!”
I hate to fight a lost cause, so I’ll consider your words, Nica, but I refuse to be contained. He charged what was left of his magic and slammed into the floor, creating a summoning star-shaped rune. The floor flashed with a bright light. Instead of summoning multiple weak servants or creating a portal that could summon an army permanently, he put everything into bringing in the strongest dark-type pokemon his magic could afford.
A four pawed dark creature with shining golden rings painted on his body appeared in the room.
Darkrai raised his hand at the pegasus before him. Umbreon, I command you to clear my path and distract my pursuers as I withdraw from this castle.
The Umbreon glanced at him before examining his surroundings, his eyes now fixated on the injured dry Raichu. <Older sis… Nica… is that you?!>
Nica blinked in confusion. <Younger brother?> She tried to walk forward but lost balance instead, hitting the floor unceremoniously with her face. She continued crawling while pulling one leg behind.
Umbreon ran over and licked her cheek. <What happened to you?!> His glanced at the broken leg as his panicked face shifted into one of pure rage. <Who dared? I’ll tear them apart!> He growled.
“What’s goin’ on?” Applejack asked, earning a hostile glare from the dark creature. Winona hid behind her in an instant and whimpered in fear.
“Umbreon and Nica know each other,” Fluttershy said. “He wants to know who hurt her friend.”
Applejack grinned and pointed at Darkrai. “If yer angry, look behind ya. This dark monster tried to break yer friend over and over, even hurtin’ her in her dream.”
Umbreon looked Nica in the eyes. <Is this true?>
<Y-yes, but…>
Umbreon turned around and glared back with pure rage.
What are you doing. I commanded you to clear my path. Obey.
Without hesitation, Umbreon howled as toxins escaped his body, assaulting Darkrai who raised his hands defensively. Everyone ran for cover as ‘Dark Pulse’ smashed Darkrai through the wall into the hallway.
<I’ll tear apart your flesh, burn you with ‘Dark Pulse’ and tear you apart again. Once I’m done with you, you’ll regret raising your filthy hands on my older sister!>
With a desperate shake of his hand, Darkrai banished his summon, feeling weakness in his body. The ‘Toxic’ attack drained his lifeforce with each passing second.
“Wow…” Dash said before glancing at Raichu. “Your friend?”
Nica nodded.
Dash trembled. “Ssshhhh… you have scary and strong friends. Remind me not to get on their bad side.”
Nica glanced at Fluttershy, raising her forepaw in her direction. <I need to talk with Darkrai. Please, carry me.>
Fluttershy nodded, picking her up before flying outside.
Seeing as Darkrai was levitating towards the shadows, Nica shouted, <Wait! Will you stop being a threat to Equestria?>
Darkrai turned around, staring back with an aura of guilt and resignation still as strong as before. What seemed new however was fear. Being attacked by a dark-type pokemon certainly caught him off guard. Again and again I was proven that I was wrong about ponies, and torturing you makes me sick. Whatever it is worth, I’m sorry.
<I asked, will you stop being a threat? Will you stop hurting ponies?>
If they won’t try to hunt me, I will leave them alone.
<Swear it!> Nica shouted.
Darkrai a held hand on his chest. I swear!
Nica forced a smile, watching as Darkrai once again levitated towards the shadow.
“Wait!” Fluttershy called. “Where is Discord?” She waited for an answer. “Well… you better!”
Rainbow Dash rubbed back of her neck in confusion. “We aren’t letting him go, are we?”
Darkrai vanished in the shadows of the hallway, disappearing from their sight just a moment before a large group arrived.
“Where’s Darkrai?” Starlight asked as she stomped against the floor.
“He vanished in darkness and stuff,” Dash pointed out.
“In this case, a magical scan should reveal his location,” Starlight said as her horn lit, so did Twilight’s.
“Please, don’t,” Fluttershy said, receiving confused stares. “Nica convinced him to no longer bother anypony or try to conquer Equestria, as long as we won’t try to hunt him.”
“Are you kidding?” Starlight asked before looking Nica in the eyes. “You seriously want us to let him go?”
She nodded before looking Fluttershy in the eyes and spreading her forepaws.
“Is something wrong? Do you need something?” Fluttershy asked.
<H-hug… sleep… tired… hug… tired and sleepy, sleep on wing…> Nica said between breaths. She felt warmth once again fill her broken heart as soft wings pressed against her back while her face was pressed into Fluttershy’s fluffy chest.
After half a minute of pure pleasure, she was placed on Fluttershy’s spread wing where she perched herself, curling into a ball with the exception of her broken leg which she didn’t dare to touch. All suffering, mind games, fighting, stress, depression, dangers… she could finally put it all behind her. She was sooo done. The only thing she wished for now was a peaceful rest.
The feeling of soft feathers touch her broken aching body being the best experience she had all day, as if jumping into a poll of water after spending a week on the desert without drinking a single drop of water, which in fact she experienced in her recent nightmare.
The group gathered around Nica, who finally earned her blissful rest. A few small cuts were present on Gabby, Rarity and Applejack.
“Soooo… that’s really it… no more fighting?” Twilight asked. “I mean… I’m always up for a peaceful solution, but it just seems too good to be true.”
Fluttershy smiled warmly. “Oh, but it is true. I saw it with my own eyes. When Nica started talking with Darkrai, he was losing the will to fight. He really did care about her.”
“Ah still think he deserves a solid beatin’, and Ah wouldn’t trust him as much as Ah could kick him,” Applejack said before shooting the long-tailed critter a pitiful glance. “But Ah trust Nica. If he’ll leave her alone, Ah’ll try to ignore his attempt to crush mah family with monsters.”
“All's well that ends well,” Rarity pointed out. “I believe that Darkrai lost his chance to take over during battle in Canterlot, but he could not accept it. Now with no hope for victory he should leave us alone, I hope.”
Starlight stomped. “I still wish I could make him pay, but if he really cared about Nica, his actions must have been hard for him.” She groaned. “Still, I’ll not forgive him anytime soon. He should have learned when to give up a long time ago.”
“I dunno, it took a while before you learned when to give up, Starlight,” Dash said, receiving annoyed frown in response. “Kidding, kidding.”
Cadance embraced Twilight with her wing. “I’m really sorry that you had to deal with someone dangerous and I didn’t help. I just wish somepony told me sooner.”
Twilight sighed. “I know I should have informed you… but you and my B.B.B.F.F. are running an entire Empire, and it would become an easier target if you left it. Until recently I didn’t even have the idea that your magic would give us such an advantage.” She glanced at the tall changeling. “Thanks Thorax. Your timing and initiative couldn’t be better.”
Thorax smiled sheepishly, raised forehoof up to his face to hid little blush and chuckled. “T-thanks. I’m glad I could be helpful.” He looked at the sleeping pokemon in sadness. “I wish I could’ve been there for Nica when she needed it. She helped my swarm so much, the least I could do is to keep her from harm.”
Gabby wrapped her wing over Thorax and nuzzled his cheek. “I know what you mean. I wish I could do more than I did, but we got a happy ending. Let’s forget the bad and cheer for the good.”
Pinkie’s smile widened. “Girls, you know what it means?” She stood on her rear hooves and spread her forelegs, throwing confetti over the group. “It calls for a party!”
“Ssshhh…” Apple Bloom shook her head. “Nica needs quiet as she’s sleeping. Ah’ll pick up the blanket."
“Sorry…” Pinkie responded, whispering, "a party."
Fluttershy chuckled as the pokemon perched on her wing received a yellow blanket with apples inscribed onto it. Patrick the rat climbed up her foreleg and perched himself on the blanket covering Nica’s back. “Soooo…. cute.”
“Sweet dreams,” Pinkie said before delivering a quick little kiss on the pokemon’s cheek.
Darkrai peeked from the shadow of a tree as no pony seemed to pursue him. The toxins on his body slowly weakening, so did the pain he felt. So she convinced them after all. It seems the ponies are more understanding than I gave them credit for. It seems listening to Chrysalis was a mistake after all. He raised his hand towards the friendship castle. The seal I put on you, I have no more use for it. Let it be my first step to apologize. He raised his hand up to the part of his body which covered his face. I wonder… maybe pokemon and ponies can live together without being exploited like they are with the humans. Maybe they can improve with magic with peaceful means. I… I have much to think about.
Without any more delays, he levitated towards Canterlot with crystal cavern being his destination. It was his home in this world after all, what better place to plan his next move. One thing was certain, exploiting ponies was no longer an option. Perhaps I should explore this world and learn it’s secrets and magics with peaceful means.
Nica felt a surge of memories returning, as if a veil covering her past was lifted in an instant. Her and her trainer’s attempt to fight the corruption in Kanto and Johto, preparation for the supreme tournament.
Each participant at least once in their career defeated the whole Elite Four. Did they still hold their title of the champion or lost, it didn’t matter as only strong pokemon, clever strategies and experience were placed in the battlefield.
Astra’s team wasn’t behind the competition as each pokemon was with her through her entire journey from the moment of their capture, only occasionally swapped as she tried to give everyone a chance. The team itself proved small enough to receive proper training and gain a lot of experience, yet vast enough for each member to be strategically swapped depending on the opponent in the next round.
The rules of supreme tournament weren’t as simple. Each qualified participants ended up facing nine random opponents, after which the judges chose sixteen or eight best candidates. The less lost battles and the better performance and display of skill and power, the higher their change. This time the roster of participants wasn’t big, resulting in eight trainers getting into round two.
No matter how bad the situation, Nica gave it her all, not daring to drop from pain or exhaustion until the victory was assured. Their dream depended on it.
After gaining the title of ‘Pokemon Master,’ Astra’s first public announcement was warning about the growing influence of criminal organizations and the danger they possessed, encouraging all Elite Four members to use their skills and strong teams to actively protect their region and pokemon trainers from dangers.
In a world filled with pokemon, the title of the Pokemon Master proved to have heavy weight, giving her easier access to important intel, cooperation with gym leaders, Elite Four and champions, and even with the police.
Of course, becoming the Pokemon Master meant that the title of the champion in Sinnoh was open, which was taken by Flint, and soon was won by a female trainer with Garchomp as her lead.
Gaining more power and influence only motivated Nica and Astra to work harder as they struggled to clean the names of the Guardians, which higher ups from Kanto and Johto police resisted in order to save their own skin, resulting in big distrust between Pokemon Master and police in these two regions.
Yet despite their efforts, one thing kept repeating itself. No matter how much damage and how many elite members of criminal organizations they defeated and locked in prison, a less experienced trainer who still didn’t win a single tournament, put an end to Team Magma and Team Aqua by stopping their master plan.
No matter how much they accomplished in protecting the world from danger. It pales when compared to the achievement of Ash Ketchum, his friends and partner, who again and again interacted with legendary pokemon. Each disaster ended before Astra and Nica even reached them.
Each time a weaker and less experienced trainer managed to accomplish the impossible, always being in the right time and right place, it hurt their pride. The feeling of worthlessness deepened as they both felt incompetent in comparison.
It didn’t mean that Ash was the only with such adventures as Astra and Nica interacted with Palkia and Dialga, stopping a disaster in different timeline or in another dimension. Not that it was anywhere near the accomplishments of the weaker trainer.
One day the powerful duo summoned them into a cave filled with crystals, informing about Darkrai’s disappearance and important mission that would follow.
“So let me get this straight,” Astra said as she stood tall in front of two legendary pokemon, each having very long neck and tail. Their body looking as if partially covered by armor. “A few months ago you felt a big disturbance, which was followed with disappearance of Darkrai. Your long investigation lead you to leftovers of dimensional portal and after two months you managed to track down the way to another world?”
Nica looked at her trainer while listening with full attention. With both legendary pokemon using telepathy, she could only guess what they responded in her trainer’s mind.
“You both traveled to this new world, but your attempt to investigate created panic instead.” Astra placed her hands on her hips. “I’m not surprised, Darkrai is really good at hiding. No wonder it took the pokemon hunters so long to track him down.”
Dialga screeched, as if confirming her statement.
“Unable to find him, you traveled into the past and next into the future in search for clues, only to discovered that the entire nation has been taken over by pokemon with Darkrai as the new ruler. To make matters worse, he had unimaginable power, a power you’ve never seen before?”
Nica’s ears drooped. Could this be the same Darkrai she once saved. What would make him enslave an entire nation?
“You both tried to reason with him, and he swore to one day return to this world and free pokemon from enslavement.” She pointed at both giants. “You tried to take him back by force, but with his newly gained power, he overpowered the both of you?”
Nica raised forepaw up to her mouth, gasping. While Darkrai was a legendary pokemon, his power was nowhere near Palkia and Dalgia. She herself, while capable of facing mega-evolved pokemon and even legendaries like Regirock, Entai and others, she would still have a lot of difficulty defeating Palkia or Dalkia on her own, and no chance at all if they teamed up. What kind of power was hiding in this different world?
Astra chuckled. “I must say, I feel honored that you would task my partner with such an important mission. However, I can’t help but wonder if one of Ash’s pokemon wouldn't be a better choice? He has proven himself again and again after all.” She narrowed her eyes. “W-what… no… of course I trust my partner. I trust her with my life. I’m… I’m just pointing out other alternatives.”
Nica lowered her head and tapped her forepaws together. No matter how hard she worked, her hero would always surpass her. To make matters worse, it turned out that Ash wanted to become the Pokemon Master, it was his biggest wish, and while he didn’t beat a single Elite Four member thus far, there was a chance he would one day challenge them. The idea of standing in the way of a superior trainer’s dream, more or less facing her hero in combat, made her feel terrible, yet she knew that holding back against them would only hurt their pride.
In the end she and her trainer weren’t interested in fame but pursued power and ways to use said power to protect those who couldn’t defend themselves. Weakening crime organizations and helping legendary pokemon in danger was their biggest desire, yet their motivation proved enough for them to defeat the best trainers in the world and acquire title they didn’t care about.
Ash Ketchum on the other side, his top goal was to become the Pokemon Master, but instead of winning tournaments and besting the Elite Four, he again and again interacted with legendary pokemon and kept the world safe.
There was nothing in the world she and Astra wished for more than to accomplish half the superior trainer did.
“Hey, Nica!”
The long-tailed critter looked at her trainer, now awoken from her thoughts. “Yes?”
“It turned out that while Palkia can send other pokemon into this new world, the travel itself is incredibly dangerous. Even for legendary pokemon, going into this other world will leave them very drained and injured. Sending ordinary pokemon would result in flattening them upon their arrival.”
Nica stomped and raised her clenched forepaw. <Don’t worry about me. Whatever the danger, I can endure.>
Astra glanced at the legendary pokemon for a moment and nodded before looking at her again. “Long story short, since we worked together with them in the past, they’re trusting you with this task. You need to investigate this new world, gather clues, earn the trust of its residents and warn them. Stop Darkrai and capture him if possible.”
Nica nodded, staring back with a growing determination.
“The reason why they chose you is due to your extreme survivability, your experience in dealing with criminals, and independence. You’ll go on this mission alone, so your thinking and skills will be necessary. Also, unlike Palkia and Dialga, your cute appearance is more trustworthy, which will make it easier to get residents of this world to cooperate. Your ability to write may come in handy too. After two months of time, Palkia will arrive in this other world and look into your progress or to take you back.”
<I understand. I’m honored to be given such responsibility. Just like my hero, I’ll face the dangers, no matter the odds.> Suddenly, she was wrapped in a hug.
“This isn’t forced upon you. If you wish, you can refuse, but if you’re really willing to do this mission on your own, remember this, I’m proud of you. You have become everything I had hoped for. Even if we aren’t anything special, I’m still happy how far we got.”
Nica wrapped her forepaws around her trainer’s neck. Together or separated, she was going to work as hard as she can. She was powerful after all, the idea of not being useful with all her power was unimaginable. Even if she could never accomplish half as much as her hero, an opportunity to protect an entire country was like the most precious treasure. When she’ll return, she will finally be able to raise her head in pride.
Nica opened her eyes and pushed to a sitting position, overflowing with energy. Did she sleep one night or an entire week she couldn’t tell but what she felt was indescribable. As if changing from a dry flower into a well-watered tree, or as if her body was tore apart, only to put together better than before. Even after recovering from her training when she pushed herself to near-death didn’t made her feel so revitalized.
A lot still weighed on her heart, the pain of betrayal where ponies she tried to protect hurt her, or the vision of her friends and even kind Fluttershy being mean to her, but it balanced itself thanks to her success. Due to her efforts, she played a big role in saving a nation, nearly crushed by the obstacles before her. Losing her memories and ending up at Darkrai’s mercy wasn’t part of the plan, but despite her drawback, she pulled through.
After a round of stretching, she noticed the blanket… most likely made by the Apple family, as well as a basket filled with apples, a few plates with sweets, muffins and cupcakes and a few best-wishes notes on the table.
She picked up a note and read aloud, <Stay awesome, and seriously, get an ego boost. You’re cool, maybe even cooler than me, so don’t even dare to think of yourself as worthless, got it? Your cool friend, Rainbow Dash.>
<I just wanted to say that… I understand you. I was under Twilight’s care from my birth and I tried to make her proud. I always aspired to be the best assistant I could be, to be helpful. I can see a similar desire in you, but way stronger. Know that you did incredibly well at it. As a fellow aspiring assistant, I admire you. Get better, Spike.>
<I must admit, taking care of you was a great experience and I learned a lot about your species and this other world you come from. If not for you, Darkrai would have his way. I wish you a fast recovery and I apologize if my treatment was an offense to you in any way, Twilight Sparkle. PS: I am looking forward to our cooperation in the near future. If you ever wish to learn anything about magic, just ask. >
<Dear Nica, thank you for keeping my family safe. I’m in your debt, Applejack. Get better, honorable family member> Nica picked another note, reading it aloud. <Thank you for saving me and Winona, I hope we can play once you’re better and that my blanket kept you warm. Stay healthy, Apple Bloom.>
Nica felt tears sliding down her face. All pain and mental trauma she experienced… worth it… if only to read the grateful words of a single filly. Not that the Apples weren’t grateful to her before, but there was a difference hearing it while feeling as if her body was going to shut down at any moment, and reading it while recovered.
She picked up three more notes. <We did it, I mean, you did it…> she blinked, trying to read the unrecognizable words written in obvious haste and excitement. <Helping feels so great, am I right? And I hope in your case that despite all the hardship you faced, it was worth it in the end. As for me, I loved being helpful and I’m sad I couldn’t keep your from harm. Cheers, and keep looking forward to more wing-hugs and belly rubs in the near future, Gabby.” Nica chuckled, her griffon friend truly was a familiar spirit.
<You always tried so hard to make us happy and were a really playful, energetic cutie. I’m really happy being your friend and I really, really don’t want to see you sad. Just say a word, and I’ll bake you whatever sweets and cakes you want. Your bestest friend, Pinkie Pie.>
With a growing smile and warming heart, she read the last note. <Hello there, Nica… it’s me, Starlight. First, I would like to apologize. If I didn’t listen to you and leave you in Cloudsdale, ponies there wouldn’t have hurt you as they did. Ever since we became friends and you chose to stay in the castle with me rather than with Fluttershy, I hoped we could work together, but again and again something kept us separated. I just want to say that I’m sorry for not being there for you as often as I should, but I’m here for you if you need me. I wish you peaceful recovery. PS: If not for you, Darkrai would start a war against Equestria and enslave us, certainly an achievement to be proud of. Cheer up, hero.>
Nica took a few quick breaths before nuzzling each and every note. She leaped from the bed and trotted on her two feet, no longer feeling pain with each step, only to stop upon noticing Pinkie Pie standing in the middle of the hallway.
“Nica, you’re awake!”
Nica smiled widely and ran at Pinkie, who grabbed her in mid-air with one foreleg and dashed towards the throne room, pushing her inside. The noise of an explosion put her on guard as she raised her tail defensively, only for confetti to fall onto her back and face. “Achoo!” she sneezed, shaking her head before seeing all of her friends inside the room with the rounded map. Get better signs and additional decoration filled the area. The most noticeable however was a massive strawberry cream-covered cake.
In a rush of excitement, Nica balanced herself on her rear feet and jumped, only to push herself from the roof with help of her tail before head slamming into the cake. The cream splashed over every quest as Nica’s head emerged from the cake as she licked her lip. A cheerful laughter filled the room.
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Good chapter, I’m looking forward to the sequel.
Wait, Nica jumped and didn't bash her head into the ceiling? CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT!!!
A very good ending...
So Nica has no reaction at all to meeting her mother again?
9074410
Now that she know how to use her tail in various ways, she can even stop herself from slaming into the ceiling. Development indeed.
9074487
Thanks. I was afraid that it ended up a bit too peaceful since many readers wanted to see Darkrai suffer for what he did, and Nica just let him go off the hook just to end this conflict.
9074558
To be fair, she was physically and mentaly broken at this point (Darkrai's assault on her dreams drained a lot of her life-force, so she was literally awake on willpower while her body could shut down at any moment, and she did try to attack Darkrai once again the moment his mother disapered, but just couldn't bring herself to.
Also, orignally Nica's mother wasn't even there where I first wrote those chapters. I made some changes, but I am not surpriced if those changes doesn't seem good enough.
Still, if you imagined Nica's reaction to her mother at this scene, feel free to write it in a comment or by PM. If it is good enough I can add it into the story.
let alone
"A party!!"
9074576
Nica punishing him could not be Nica, is like Twilight suddenly throwing books to a fire.
I can't believe Darkrai actually believed Chrysalis. Even if she was his mentor, he should have been able to tell she is insane.
I liked this conclusion.
Fantastic. Simply fantastic.
I have to say that this story was great. Loveable characters, great action, hilarious comedy, awesome action sequences, a solid plotline, a satisfyine ending... I think that i can't ask for much more than that.
Adding 2 popmts to your bonus ones, i give this story a 15 on the
itude meter! I hope thamt Nica gets a good rest. Sweet Celestia, she earned it.
HYPE HYPE HYPE HYPE HYPE
9074615
Fixed.
9074650
Added.
9074660
You got that right.
9074661
Thanks. I hope you will like the sequel as well.
9074681
Thanks for all fixing you have done on the chapters. If you want, I can send you link to the sequel so you can proof-read it (unless you prefer to simply pick up on mistakes on uploaded chapters, that's fine too.
That's a lot of praise. You must have really enjoyed it. I hope you liked Nica and her backstory just as much.
9074945
Why do I get the impression that you really want those two to meet and interact with each other?
9074980
I don't know you tell me
Very good story! I enjoyed it from beginning to the end. I'm glad that Nica can finally rest and recover with the help and love from her friends.
Looking forward to the sequel!
On the side note, will the sequel addressed that the Wonderbolts attacked Nica and get chewed out for it? It still bothered me that despite that they made a mistake, they just left Nica behind and not helping her (and the fact that Spitfire never apologized to her).
locating target: target identified: Cake located: Tactical Nica Inbound...mission accomplished cake destroyed.
Also i wasn't expecting Astra and Nica to like Ash and Pikachu if only because of how reckless they are. anyway i hope too see the next chapter and the sequel soon.
9075333
Don't worry, it will be adressed in the sequel, just not right away. I have a good spot for it to happen.
9075781
Lol
Also, it was less of bombing the case and more of assaulting it in order to take over those sweet resources and place them safely in Nica's belly. I suppouse she got herself lost in the moment and went a bit over the top.
(You were suppouse to capture the goods, not bomb them)
(Sorry sir, we couldn't help ourselves).
9075781
What for ones is recklessness, for them is heroism to be admired. Since they never meet them in person and only heard rumors and learned how they faced legendary pokemon and saved lives, they kind of made an image of those two as mighty and efficient heroes who put themselves in danger for the sake of others.
I suppouse the image they created in their minds is far diferent from reality. After all, the way they see it, their heroes are weaker, less experienced and didn't manage to get far as they didn't even defeat a single Elite Four member yet, but they constantly faced the most powerful beings in the world and took action to stop big disasters. Considering Astra and Nica's ideology, it is enough to mark those two as the greatest heroes that ever walked on the face of the planet.
9075891
Lol
[one week later]
'Nica your charged with wasting valuable cake resources how do you plead.'
<Guilty i have no regrets, it was delicious anyways.>
'plead excepted, you are now sentenced with a life sentence of cuddling with no parole.'
(... this doesn't sound like a punishment)
true enough... though it makes me wonder. how would that fight end? i mean don't get me wrong ash has a long way to go before he could even be in a situation like that but it makes me wonder... could ash win? i mean when he's serious and not goofing off he's a force to be reckoned with but i think he would rather have fun then demolish anyone... i guess that why he loses the league so often.
9077804
Well, I think it is just part of Ash's character. He doesn't plan things ahead but instead go with his instincts and emotions, and he's often lucky that the pokemon he get under his care posses some sort of great talent that he can nurture.
The weakness of this however is that he rarely thinks about the end game. The fact that the only pokemon he keep is Pikachu and his strongest team members are with him no longer than a year put him at a disadvantage (and he also swap his team way too rarely before important fights).
When Astra had end-game plan and developed a way to get there, Ash was thinking about here and now. When Astra knew that in order to face Elite Four members, champion and the most dangerous criminals, she need her team in tip tip shape and to have many years of experience, Ash was catching new pokemon and making new friends in every new region.
Personally, I think that if Astra took Ash under her guidance, she would make up for his weaknesses (Astra would convince Ash to gather all of the pokemon he caught so far and from there pick up 8 strongest). Then she would convince Ash to keep his team for more then a year and most likely rechallenge leagues he once participated in (Kanto League seems like an easy picking considering that Ash's Charizard seemed strong enough to overcome it on its own, and he wasn't with Ash even one year). As for Nica, she would assist Ash with training, giving his team a challenge and improving their skills (helping others improve is the only thing Nica likes about pokemon battles).
With a solid guide from Astra and Nica, Ash could actually become a very competent trainer and maybe one day even challenge Astra for her title. After all, Ash know how to improvise, have a lot of energy and willpower and gets along with his pokemon really well, and he can get them unlock their full potential very quickly, he would just need a mentor to guide him in the right direction.
Still, considering that Astra is a bit afraid to meet her hero (if only because she is the final obstacle to Ash's biggest dream, I doubt she would want to reveal herself to him).
9078025
About Ash's weaknesses. He's also known to not be Paul. He doesn't LOOK for naturally strong pokemon. Paul takes strongest pokemon, and makes them suffer. Wonder what would Astra and her pokemon would think about him. Then again, Paul abandoned Chimchar, when he couldn't get him to use Blaze. Ash took Chimchar, and now has an Infernape with Blaze ability. X) Oh, are you gonna do justice, and make something anime failed to do? That is, bring back Pidgeot. I reall miss that most loyal pokemon of his.
9078150
Ash may not look for naturaly strong pokemon, but he sure gets them like a lot, like when one trainer abandoned Tegpig for being weak (and he had 2 fully evolved pokemon.) Yet by some miracle, Ash's Snivy (unevolved grass type pokemon) endured one super effective move after another, being crushed and burned since it ended up a 2 vs 1 fight. However, Ash's Tegpig took many hits during the fight, evolved into his mid-evolution form and just happened to KO two fully evolved pokemon with a single Flareblitz (two pokemon who took nearly no damage during the rest of the fight.)
So in short, two fully evolved pokemon who worked well as a team couldn't take out two unevolved pokemon who didn't cooperate well for most of the fight, but then they are taken down by a single attack.
Because of this stuff I can't take Ash's ability to unlock pokemon's full potential seriously. It just feels too little (earned) and too much (him getting OP pokemon because he's main character). There are exception like Paul Chimchar whose progression was well balanced and well earned (I wish there were more like these), but most of pokemon that Ash got were OP for no reason.
Well... while Astra's training is even tougher than Paul's, Astra still take feeling of her pokemon into consideration and she would never aprove of cruelity, while Nica would want to give Paul a piece of her mind.
If she ended up taking care of Paul's Chimchar, she would most likely try to find a good trainer for him, (knowing that she wouldn't be able to raise him properly) or she would notice that harsh training doesn't work well for Chimchar and would go easy on him. Maybe she would let him accompany her outside of a pokeball and she would treat him like a companion (mascot), someone who tag along but is not send into harsh battles.
Astra take action with long-term solution in mind, but since Paul's training methods didn't work for Chimchar, I doubt Astra and Nica would be able to unleash his full potential. As the result, she wouldn't involve Chimchar in any important battle as he would be way weaker than other of Astra's pokemon. Still, Astra wouldn't alow Chimchar to feel abandoned and Nica would show him great care and kindness. They would be on friendly terms for sure.
I am afraid this cannot be done. Considering that this story is taking place when Ash is still in alola, there is no reason why Pidgeot would be in alola just to be sucked in. (It would feel too forced). The only thing i would see it working is if Pidgeon visited Ash by flying to Melemele, and just happen to play with other of Ash's pokemon when the events of the sequel will start to be taking place. It still seems like pushing it.
9078180
1) Yeah, makes sense.
2) Well, yeah, he's not even at Oak's. He's in a forest somewhere. What I was thinking is that sometime ago Ash went back, caught him back and have him either on himself, or in team rotation. And when he comes to Equestria to find his pokemon he has Pidgeot on his belt. After all, he regurarly rotates(rotated) his team for Leagues. He swiped Bayleef, Toros, Charisard and many others even in later generationts.
9078025
Well his "weakness" is kinda true but it's not always a weakness taking in the moment is how he comes up with seemingly impossible strategies like his draco climb which is pikachu climbing a draco meteor with an iron tail. or the 3rd Kanto gym rematch with Lt. Surge's Raichu. so yes while his problem with planning is troublesome he makes up for it pretty well with ingenuity and undying trust in his pokemon. plus he has a good personality which increases his bond with his pokemon...never doubt the power of emotion it can become a powerful driving force that make pokemon and people do some spectacular things. though i'm not saying he's the best... because it obvious he's not, but i'm saying as far as trainer's go he's a good one.
9078180
while i know this isn't directed at me i'll tell you what i think happens in these instances:
1) Evolution is a humongous power gain in the anime but it's usually temporary so the power that's gained is cut in half after the battle.
2) in the resent pokemon games, pokemon have the ability to tank hits that would normally knock them out, this was done to mimic the anime, but the catch is that the pokemon has to care a lot for their trainer.
3) unusually high base stats. like in defense and special defense.
so while yes the main character status is OP as heck there is some plausible reasons behind them. but then again what do i know i'm just a person with to much time on their hands.
9079049
Hey, I think I know how evolution works in the anime. It simply makes pokemon healthy again. There's no powerboost, at least, not over the normal level. Pokemon has like 10% health and 0% stamina, boom, it evolves and has 100% health and stamina for his current stage. After that they just take damage and lose stamina again.
9081317
then how do you explain charmeleon's flamethrower it was super strong right after evolution but after that it was half as strong. i'm not saying your wrong i'm just saying there's more to consider
9081480
Hmmm, I dunno. Maybe it's kinda like drinking energetic? Freshly evolved, full of stamina and happy. This is not exact science here. LIttle mouse-like creature can keep up with giant stone snakes(Pikachu vs Onix), that greatly dwarf humans. Oh, and a creature, that does not exceed and arm lenght(Larvitar) can evolve into creatures that, again, is vastly bigger than a human(Tyranitar).
9082532
true enough how about we agree to disagree on matters of evolution so we don't fight about it. i mean the pokemon world is already weird like capsules that can carry objects that are over a couple tons or how you can carry a regular bike in your backpack. and that only scraping the surface
9082895
Hey, you wanted an explanation, I've given you what I think is one. It wasn't about as much of diagreement, as it was you not understanding why freshly evolved pokemon could dish out massive damage. Or did I read your comments wrong? Sorry, in that case.
9082977
neither of us are wrong that's why i'm saying to agree to disagree. i'm not saying i don't understand how pokemon dish out massive damage i'm just saying that there's more than just stats. you were saying that health and stamina is regained but that's not quite true. while some health is regained and some stamina is given, that's because of the break in the battle as the pokemon evolves. but right after the process ends the battle continues. this explains how after the battle ends the pokemon is exhausted to the point of almost fainting. but this could also because of a pokemon form of adrenaline that happens after evolution so they can end the battle sooner because evolution is a taxing process, and in the wild it's survival of the fittest and what not so survival instincts and what not. this would explain the decrease in power after the first battle ends because adrenaline is a temporary power booster. so while were both right we're also wrong and again unless the maker of pokemon confirms or denies this stuff it's all just theory so that's why i said to not argue. thank you for taking time out of your day to debate the details of pokemon evolution.
9128780
That's a sad truth, but I fear you're right.
Will we be seeing Darkrai anytime in the future?
I have to wonder who this Dalkia you wrote of is.
9386404
Fixed, thanks.
Man if I could compress this somehow I would, I just have a thing for seeing errors while simply reading a story. Hope you don't mind all these comments I've been making like this over the past few days.
of his gathered
raised his/a hand
summoned a small
Unsure if you're intention was cutting off the word please, and if so it'd probably be a good idea to use plea- instead of plea!
as a result
that saved
slammed what into the floor, his hand? his body?
held a
All the suffering
during the battle
raised a forehoof
as did
with the crystal
Whether they still held the title of champion or not did not matter as only strong pokemon, clever strategies and experience... and then there's the last bit which just sounds really strange and I'm not sure how to fix. Anyways there's my suggestion for that whole bit.
of the Supreme Tournament
participant
eight of the best
battles lost
better the performance
chance(?)
achievements
only one with
in a different
informing them about
and the important
having a very
bodies looked (?)
guess how they
Entei
would
would
criminal
acquire a title
half of what the
<>
torn
to be put back together
decorations
guest?
Dialga
Uh, two different tipos, how weird
While I enjoyed this story, I honestly disagree giving Darkrai a get out of jail free card. Actions has consequences; although he learned the error of his ways, he still must answer for his crimes.