Pokémon Adventures: GAMER PATH

~Third POV~

[Johto Region, Next Day, Ecruteak City – Tin Tower]

The wind, carrying the faint scent of ancient wood and burning incense, whispered through Azure's hair as he stood on the outskirts of Ecruteak City. The traditional Johto architecture, with its towering pagodas and paper screens, seemed to hum with history.

Just yesterday, in a whirlwind of fire and courage, Azure had faced Entei, the Volcano Pokémon, in a blazing showdown that had left the earth scorched and the air thrumming with residual power. After a hard-won victory against the Volcano Pokémon, Entei told him to come to the Tin Tower.

The words echoed in Azure's mind now as he looked up at the silhouette of Tin Tower, piercing the sky. It wasn't just a challenge; it felt like destiny.

Beside him, Pikachu, his faithful first partner, twitched an ear, its tail a bright lightning bolt against the grey cobblestones. Eevee, ever vigilant, padded softly, her soft fur brushing against his leg, a silent promise of protection.

Perched on his shoulder, her tiny wings humming, Celebi giggled, a cascade of melodic chimes that brought a smile to Azure's face. He murmured, "You ready, Celebi?"

The mythical healer chirped, radiating a warmth that soothed his slight nerves, "Bei! (Ready as I'll ever be!)"

His other Pokémon rested in their Poké Balls, but their presence was palpable. Ampharos, his radiant beacon; Quagsire, the ever-calm and sturdy shield; Mismagius, the ethereal enchantress; Houndoom, loyal and fierce; Skarmory, his sky-faring guardian; and Tyranitar, a force of nature, patiently awaiting their trainer's next command.

Each one was a testament to his journey, a thread woven into the tapestry of his experience. Azure said calmly, his voice firm but gentle, "Alright, team. This is it. The last leg of this quest. Skarmory, we'll need your wings."

*Pop*

A flash of light, and Skarmory materialized, its steely plumage glinting under the morning sun. Its sharp talons found purchase on the ground with a soft scrape.

Azure mounted, Pikachu leaping onto his shoulder, Eevee tucking herself securely into a pouch on his belt. Celebi floated gracefully alongside him, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.

The ascent was not easy. The Tin Tower, an ancient structure dedicated to Ho-Oh, was shrouded in myth and mystery. Its upper reaches were often wreathed in clouds, the air growing thinner, colder.

*Fwp*

Skarmory cut through the wind with powerful, rhythmic beats of its wings, its metallic body a shield against the swirling currents. Azure gripped its neck, its gaze fixed on the ever-nearing summit.

He thought back to the Clear Bell. He had earned it in a contest against the Kimino Girls in the Theater. It was a simple bell, crafted from what appeared to be polished crystal, but when he first held it, a faint, pure tone had resonated through him, light as a feather, yet deep as the earth.

He understood then that it was no ordinary reward. It was an artifact. It was the key.

As they gained altitude, the sounds of Ecruteak faded, replaced by the rush of wind and the distant cries of wild Pokémon. The world below became a patchwork quilt of green and brown, dotted with tiny, toy-like buildings.

Skarmory banked, navigating around a particularly dense cloud bank, its keen eyes scanning for the summit. Azure encouraged, patting Skarmory's neck, "Almost there, buddy."

The Steel/Flying type let out a low, confident cry, "Skar!"

*Fwp*

Finally, they broke through the last veil of clouds. The summit of Tin Tower lay before them, a vast, flat expanse of ancient stone, open to the sky.

And there, bathed in the ethereal light of the morning, they were waiting. The air crackled with power, a tangible presence that made the hairs on Azure's arms stand on end.

*CRACKLE*

Raikou, its majestic form crackling with electricity, stood poised as if ready to spring at any moment. Suicune, an embodiment of grace and purity, shimmered, its aurora-like mane flowing in the unseen currents. Entei, unmistakable, its fiery mane still smoldering faintly, met Azure's gaze with a look of silent acknowledgement.

And then, there was Marshadow. The mysterious, shadowy, mythical Pokémon, often unseen, made its presence known as a faint, dancing heat shimmer, its glowing eyes fixed on Azure. It was a silent council, an audience of legends.

Azure dismounted Skarmory, his feet finding purchase on the cold stone and wood. Pikachu and Eevee immediately took their defensive stances, though their expressions were more awe than fear.

Celebi, however, floated closer to the edge, its cheerful chimes momentarily silenced by the sheer gravitas of the moment. The legendary beasts, alongside Marshadow, simply watched, taking a knee.

There was no aggression, no challenge, only an intense, silent scrutiny. It was as if they were observing a final test, a last confirmation of worthiness before the true trial began here…

Azure took a deep breath, the ancient air filling his lungs. He reached into his bag, his fingers brushing against the cool, smooth surface of the Clear Bell. This was it.

Everything had led to this moment. His journey with his team, the battles won, the bonds forged, the lessons learned – it all converged here. He drew out the bell from his [Sub-Space].

It pulsed faintly, a soft, inner light. With a steady hand, Azure raised it, the crystal clear against the brightening sky. He closed his eyes for a moment, remembering the guidance the Beast Trio had given him, remembering the countless sunrises and sunsets he had shared with his Pokémon.

He thought of their laughter, their struggles, and their unwavering loyalty. He channeled all that love, all that dedication, all that respect for the world and its creatures, into that simple action.

He rang the Clear Bell.

*Ding*

*Ding*

The sound was unlike anything he had ever heard. It wasn't a harsh clang, nor a simple chime. It was a melody, pure and resonant, that vibrated not just through the air, but through the very fabric of his being.

It began as a whisper, a crystalline hum that seemed to expand outwards, washing over the summit. The legendaries stirred, their forms subtly shifting, their eyes now gazing towards the heavens.

*Ding*

*Ding*

As the sound deepened, growing in intensity, the sky itself seemed to react. Wisps of cloud began to part, revealing patches of brilliant azure. Then, from nowhere, ribbons of color unfurled across the vast expanse above: crimson, orange, gold, green, blue, indigo, violet.

A complete, vibrant rainbow arced across the sky, painting the horizon in a breathtaking display of light. And then… it descended.

*FWP*

A shadow, vast and magnificent, blotted out the sun for a fleeting moment. Then, a creature of unparalleled majesty materialized from the heart of the rainbow… The Legendary Rainbow Pokémon Ho-Oh.

*FWP*

Its golden feathers gleamed like polished gold, its red and green plumage shone with the depth of precious jewels, and its tail feathers, a riot of iridescent colors, flowed like a living aurora. Fire, not of destruction but of purification, shimmered around its form. Its eyes, ancient and knowing, fixated on Azure.

A gasp escaped Azure's lips, though he wasn't aware of making it. The sheer scale, the incredible beauty, and the overwhelming aura of the Rainbow Pokémon were truly humbling…

*FWP*

Witnessing Ho-Oh for the first time, Azure could only think, in awe, 'This was not just a Pokémon; it was a living legend, a spirit of the sky itself.'

*FWP*

Ho-Oh hovered before him, its massive wings beating slowly, sending gentle currents of air rippling across the summit. The legendary beasts and Marshadow remained still, their collective gazes now solely on Ho-Oh and Azure, as if witnessing a sacred ritual.

The examination began. Ho-Oh's gaze was not scrutinizing harshly, but rather deeply penetrative, as if it could see into the very core of Azure's soul. It was a silent question as it said telepathically, 'Who are you, Trainer? What is your heart's true desire?'

Azure stood his ground, not wavering. He didn't try to project anything, didn't try to perform. He simply was. He let his genuine self be seen. He thought of his first clumsy battle with Pikachu, their shared triumphs and defeats.

He remembered helping his Pokémon he saved from Team Rocket, standing up to a ruthless poacher, and healing an injured Pokémon with Celebi's gentle touch. He remembered the grueling training sessions, the late-night talks with his Pokémon, and the quiet moments of shared companionship.

He recalled the fear he felt when his Pokémon were injured, and the fierce determination that rose within him to protect them… He recalled the joy of discovery, the wonder of each new species he encountered.

Ho-Oh seemed to process these memories, these emotions, not as a rapid-fire montage, but as a deep, understanding resonance. Azure felt a warmth spreading through his chest, a feeling of peaceful acceptance.

It wasn't just his memories being reviewed; it was the collective memory of his journey, intrinsically linked with his team. He felt the quiet strength of Tyranitar, the comforting glow of Ampharos, the steady presence of Quagsire, the watchful gleam in Houndoom's eyes, the mischievous glint of Mismagius, and the unwavering loyalty of Skarmory.

Pikachu's small paw pressed against his arm, and Eevee nudged his leg, their silent support a powerful anchor. Celebi, finally, let out a soft, joyful chime, its small form glowing faintly, "Bei! (See, I told you.)"

It seemed to recognize something, a pureness that resonated with its mystical energy. The silence stretched, profound and weighty, broken only by the gentle beat of Ho-Oh's wings. Then, incredibly, Ho-Oh lowered its magnificent head.

Its eyes, once filled with an ancient, appraising light, now softened, filled with what Azure could only interpret as profound respect and understanding. It was a bow. Not of subservience, but of acknowledgment. Of choice.

A tear pricked Azure's eye. This wasn't about power or dominance. It was about acceptance, about a legendary Pokémon choosing to join a human, not out of defeat, but out of shared purpose.

Ho-Oh extended a wing, a silent invitation. Azure understood. He reached for a vacant spot on his belt, where a single, unadorned Premier Ball rested. It wasn't a Master Ball, nor a specially crafted one.

It was a simple, pure white Poké Ball, symbolizing a new beginning, a clean slate. He held it out as Ho-Oh said to them telepathically, 'You truly are worthy. Very well. I choose to join you at the end of your road. Let the flames of rejuvenation burn ever brighter within your heart! Rainbow Hero!'

Ho-Oh, with a gentle, majestic sweep of its wing, touched the button. There was no struggle, no flash of resistance.

Instead, a cascade of golden light enveloped the Rainbow Pokémon, drawing it into the small sphere. The Premier Ball pulsed once, twice, then settled, a soft click confirming the deepest, most profound bond Azure had ever formed.

*BON*

He felt its presence immediately, a warmth, a sense of immense power tempered by grace, now a part of his team. It was the completion of the Rainbow Hero Trial, not just for Ho-Oh, but for Azure himself.

The other legendaries did not immediately depart. Raikou let out a low growl, not of challenge, but of respect.

Suicune dipped its head gracefully. Entei's fiery mane flared once, a final acknowledgment of Azure's journey.

Marshadow's hazy form brightened for a moment before fading into the shadows, its implicit approval given. Then, one by one, they turned and departed, vanishing into the clouds from which Ho-Oh had descended… except for one.

Marshadow stood kneeling as Azure kneeled to the Gloomdweller Pokémon, as he asked curiously, "So… why do you want to stay around Marshadow? Do you wish to follow your Lord to the very end?"

Marshadow shook its head as it spoke telepathically to Azure, surprising him in a respectful tone, 'No. My duties have been fulfilled; thus, you being the Rainbow Hero, it's my duty to now serve you in the shadows. Till the end of your road.'

Azure blinked before chuckling, holding Marshadow's hand as he said happily, "Nah. How about you and I stand side-by-side in the light. And if you intend to serve me, then it won't be by my title as the Rainbow Hero but as your friend."

Marshadow's eyes briefly widened before it ultimately nodded its head. Azure then secured another Poké Ball, the Luxury Ball. As he placed it in front of Marshadow, he said, "Good. Then… welcome aboard to the light."

Marshadow stood, seeing the Luxury Ball in his hand. It briefly smiled as it tapped the button on the Poke Ball, and it was sucked in. Just like Ho-Oh, there was no resistance as it was sucked inside, and a soft click signaled its capture.

*BON*

Azure stood there, the Premier Ball warm in his hand, and the Luxury Ball feeling the weight of the moment, the profound significance of what had just happened. Pikachu rubbed its head against his leg, purring contentedly.

Eevee let out a happy bark. Celebi flitted around his head, its chimes now full of unbridled joy. Azure whispered, his voice thick with emotion, "We did it."

He looked up at the sky, still painted with the lingering colors of the rainbow. This wasn't the end of his journey, not by a long shot. But a new chapter had undoubtedly begun.

With Ho-Oh and Marshadow by his side, the Rainbow Hero would continue to walk his path, forever guided by the arc of the rainbow, seeking new horizons and strengthening the bonds that truly defined him. The legend and Mythical had chosen him, and he, in turn, had chosen both.

He checked their status and info and smiled, seeing how strong the two of them were. He grinned as he muttered, "Welcome aboard the team."

[Ho-Oh, the Rainbow Pokémon. Ho-Oh's wings are prismatic, causing it to trail a rainbow behind it. When Ho-Oh flies, its huge wings create bright, colorful rainbows. The rare few who bear witness to Ho-Oh are promised eternal happiness.

It is capable of razing its target with a mystical fire of great intensity. In ancient times, the Bell Tower in Ecruteak City and the former Bell Tower in Goldenrod City were both once Ho-Oh's perches. Ho-Oh has the mythical power to resurrect the dead, as seen with three unnamed Pokémon.

When the Brass Tower was burned down 150 years ago, Ho-Oh descended from the sky, reviving three unnamed Pokémon into the Legendary beasts. It can be summoned at the Bell Tower through one of its feathers, Clear Bells, and the dance of the Kimono Girls. Ho-Oh has been referred to as the "guardian of the skies".]

|Name: Ho-Oh (Rainbow Pokémon)

|Type: Fire/Flying

|Level: 70

|Gender: Genderless

|Held Item: Sacred Ash

|Ability: Pressure

|Nature: Hardy

|Moves: Safeguard, Gust, Fire Blast, Sunny Day, Swift, Whirlwind, Ancient Power, Future Sight, Natural Gift, Extrasensory, Punishment, Calm Mind, Sky Attack, Weather Ball, Brave Bird, Roost, Tailwind, Air Cutter, Aerial Ace, Detect, Flamethrower, Overheat, Flame Charge, Reflect, Light Screen, Will-O-Wisp, Protect, Defog (HM), Fly (HM), Recover (IM), Sacred Fire (IM) (11 Moves left to learn)

[Marshadow the Gloomdweller Pokémon. When angered or attacking, Marshadow's fighting spirit will begin to burn, turning it into Zenith Marshadow. In this state, its headgear, wrist bumps, and collar flare up and resemble green and yellow flames. Marshadow's eyes also flare up when in this state, but do not change in color.

Very few people have seen it, being left undiscovered for a long time, so its existence has been the stuff of legends and myths. Marshadow is a cautious Pokémon and can sink into the shadows to ensure it is not noticed, similarly to Gengar.

While hiding in the shadows of others, it can understand their feelings and even copy their abilities. Through mimicry, it will eventually become more powerful than those it imitates. It can even learn the ultimate technique of martial arts masters it copies.

Marshadow is also capable of causing nightmares. Marshadow can also shapeshift and stretch out its arms. While corrupted by the Rainbow Feather, it can even take control of countless Pokémon with the power of its shadows.]

|Name: Marshadow (Gloomdweller Pokémon)

|Type: Fighting/Ghost

|Level: 40

|Gender: Genderless

|Held Item: Marshadium-Z

|Ability: Technician

|Nature: Adamant

|Moves: Assurance, Counter, Drain Punch, Thunder Punch, Fire Punch, Ice Punch, Laser Focus, Shadow Sneak, Pursuit, Force Palm, Feint, Rolling Kick, Copycat, Shadow Punch, Role Play, Jump Kick, Psych Up, Close Combat, Sucker Punch, Endeavor, Shadow Ball, Focus Punch, Superpower, Mega Punch, Mega Kick, Phantom Force, Spectral Thief (IM) (0 Moves left to learn)

[Item: Marshadium-Z

Rarity Item: -

Type: Key Item

Description: This is a crystallized form of Z-Power. It upgrades Marshadow's Spectral Thief to a Z-Move [Soul Stealing 7-Star Strike].]

[Item: Sacred Ash

Rarity Item: -

Type: Held Item

Description: Ash that can be used to revive all party Pokémon that have fainted. It also fully restores the Pokémon's max HP, stamina, and cures all known diseases and wounds, no matter how grave.]

Seeing their items and abilities, Azure smiled. Their journey, was nearing they're end.

/////

A/N: Reach the goal of 150 PS to get a Bonus Chapter!