This chasm...it has been a point of conflict between the League and Rocket. However, the strange Pokemon and terrain lent this place to be dangerous on its own. Toki had only just begun his travels on orders from Ranger HQ, but has yet to find anything noteworthy to report that hasn't been discovered already. In the distance, there was movement, so Toki figured he would investigate.

After a trek down a hill, Toki would spot Ettie dash by on Anne, followed by the rest of her pack as she preferred to call her Pokemon. "Ettie!" He called out, running behind them. He had no way to keep pace with a Lycanroc so all he could do was trail a bit behind and hoped that Ettie would hear him. Whenever she would slow down, he would stop by her and pant heavily "H-hey again. I didn't expect to run into you here...what are you even doing here? Has everything been alright?" He was always a bit of a worrywart, but it came from a good place.

As soon as Toki caught his breath, he brought out a Pokemon that was familiar to Ettie and some of her pack. Azura, the bright and bubbly Brionne who barked happily upon seeing the group again "What say we travel together for now? Whatever you're looking for I'm sure I can help track down." He offered with a smile. Another adventure with the person who helped him when he first came to Hoenn. How could he not?

At the sound of a familiar voice, a number of the pack would come to a stop - namely, those who recognized said voice - followed shortly by the rest of the hunting party. A number of tails were wagging at the sight of none other than Toki...

... And safe to say, Ettie's expression would light up as well. "Toki-friend! Hello!" She'd greet in turn, hopping down from Anne's back to run up and give him a big hug! "Is good! Pack tracking!" She chirped - continuing "Found pawprints - pack doesn't recognize. Is big! Has claws! Ettie curious!"

Jury was still out on whether this pokemon was something like another canine, something more feline, or even some other form of mammalian beast altogether - such as a bear. But, it was most definitely a predator; prey didn't usually have claws like the prints had implied.

But, at the offer to come with, Ettie nodded eagerly. "Okay! Friends come with!" She glanced to her pack - and in particular, her gaze fell upon the azure Midday Lycanroc that had accompanied her, the she-wolf being around the same size as the already large Anne, large enough to bear a rider. "Maria help friend?"

The Lycanroc - Maria - approached, her verdant eyes studying Toki for a few long moments, as if to get a read on him. There was that same sort of wild-pokemon-wariness that Anne tended to display towards strangers, but... After a shared glance with Anat, she'd nod, coming close and crouching down - as if to let him onto her back.

It seemed that whatever she was looking for, he passed the test.

Ettie, meanwhile, had let her attentions drift - happily patting pat Azura on the head. "Azura-friend, hello!" She chirped cheerily.

Once everyone was situated and ready to keep moving though, the pack would continue onwards with Toki in tow - navigating the strange landscape that was the Giant Chasm. Ettie watched as Zeke and Madame used Odor Sleuth to keep tabs on the scent trail that they were following - although...

... It seemed as though the further along they went, the brighter and hotter the sun shone down on them. And off in the distance, roughly in the same direction as the pack was moving, a deep and bellowing Howl of some sort could be heard.

He laughed happily as the Pokemon recognized him and reacted positively. He gave a few of them some pets before he looked up at Ettie "You're tracking that too? I saw similar tracks nearby that led this way. If we're looking for the same thing then I'll come with you to provide some back up." Whatever this Pokemon was, it was big and most likely dangerous to take on without some help.

Toki watched as Maria slowly approached. She was wary...so Toki offered a hand so she could get his scent to calm her down. Either way, it seemed she was okay enough with his presence to let him ride. "There we go...it's alright." His voice was quiet and gentle as he reassured her. He climbed onto her back and settled himself. Azura jumped up and rested in his lap. When Ettie reached over to pet her, Azura barked happily and nuzzled her hand, glad to see a friend after so long.

Once the two were situated and ready to go, they ran onward. The area began to heat up like a hot summer's day. In response, Toki carefully brought out Malik, who clung to his shoulder so he could enjoy the warmth. If push came to shove, Malik would be able to use Solar Beam easily in these conditions. "These are Malik's favorite conditions...that could help us, but I'm not sure if whatever we're looking for will be a good match up for him..."

The booming howl made Toki grit his teeth. "It's very big....whatever it is. Let's proceed carefully and try not to draw its attention too quickly." Toki felt his heart pound heavily, but he would set aside his nerves. This was why he was here. He wouldn't back away. "We can do this, Ettie. We should see it soon."

Ettie nodded in agreement, as Toki commented on the size of this mystery beast. With the pack nearing the suspected location, their pace slowed to that of a stalking prowl - as if they were tracking down a skittish wild Stantler. Which really, a potentially aggressive pokemon should be treated with much the same sort of care and caution.

But as they moved, things became apparent - slashes and scratches in the environment, gashes that told of conflict. So, too, was there scorched patches of earth, burnt undergrowth, and the like. The source of it all became apparent as the group proceeded forwards though - as below, on a lower ridge, two pokemon could be seen.

A beast that meshed together dinosaur and mammal, with a clear resemblance to Entei; a Gouging Fire had another Paradox - an Iron Crown - pinned down. Though the mechanical cervine struggled, it wasn't in good shape - one of its horns torn off, the other flickering as it tried and failed to use Tachyon Cutter...

... Only for the Gouging Fire to finally crunch its jaws down around the Iron Crown's neck - bringing the machine's struggling to an end.

Ettie was low to the ground as she slipped from Anne's back to watch, visibly awed. She didn't know much of Entei or Suicune - she was most familiar with Raikou, but even then that was via osmosis from time spent with Josh Devlin . "Strong..." She observed, speaking in a hushed voice. "Lone... No pack?"

The Gouging Fire - in Ettie's eyes - felt canid enough; and so, to see one on its own - with no clear pack - was curious to her. Could this one be a potential addition to her own pack?

The hunt was on. Ettie's group got low to the ground and proceeded slowly. Toki leaned forward to keep his body hidden as well, though he took care not to press against any of the rocks jutting out of Maria's fur. As they went forward, more signs of conflict were made apparent. Gashes in the earth and on nearby trees and stones. Toki gulped, suddenly a little on edge.

However, those rising feelings of unease became palpable fear as soon as he saw the Pokemon they were tracking this whole time. The Paradox Pokemon viciously clamped its jaws around the strange mechanical Pokemon's neck. Jaws that could bite through steel like that...Toki had never seen something like this before. He was aware of the natural cycle of things, but to see something this close to an apex predator made his blood run cold.

With heavy breaths, Toki worried his fear would spook Maria or any of the others in the pack, but no matter how much he tried to collect himself, that fear instilled itself deeply into his mind. Something like this felt so alien. Everything about this chasm felt unreal to the point of absurdity. He became a ranger to solve problems that would make sense under normal conditions, but here he was tackling things decidedly abnormal!

Azura tried to calm him down, sensing his worries and fears, but he was frozen for the time being. Malik clung tightly, not wanting to leave his side. Azura barked and jumped off Maria, ready to protect her trainer at any cost. She wouldn't alert the Pokemon, but she was staring at it intensely.

Toki's fear would indeed be palpable to the pack. Those most sensitive - Anat and Haru, being a Lucario and a Psychic-type respectively - being the first ones to notice, and the others gradually catching on one by one.

The Lycanrocs seemed to take it in stride - as did Barbara and Madame. But Zeek, Yip, and Haru all seemed unsettled - both at the sight below and in picking up on Toki's emotions. This was a strange pokemon. This was different from what they knew and understood.

Anne would make a low huffing sound that had the pack perking to attention, though - seemingly to snap them out of their unease. The pack gathered closer to their leader, as if to find comfort in eachothers' numbers.

In turn, Anat would place a paw on Toki's side in a reassuring touch. Ettie, too, would reach over to hold his hand. "Is okay," She whispered, with an ironclad certainty. "Pack protects."

But then, her gaze drifted back to the Gouging Fire below, thoughtful. She recognized that this wasn't the sort of pokemon she was familiar with, but... "... Have food. Could befriend, maybe?" She suggested. Most wild pokemon could be made more amicable with some food - and as far as she could see, there wasn't anything that would imply this one would be any different.

As long as she was careful, surely nothing would go amiss, right?

Suddenly, Toki found himself snapped back to reality, with his blurred and panicked vision suddenly clear once more as Ettie and Anat reassured him. His breathing settled, and he looked at the empathic Lucario, then at Ettie's determined expression. As carefree and happy Ettie was, she was also a veritable found of optimism and inner strength. It's no wonder pack-minded Pokemon flocked to her. She had the makings of a leader and incredibly skilled trainer, something that Toki felt lacking in.

Despite the tension, he noticed that her Pokemon were on guard, but from a sense of duty instead of fear. Azura stood alongside them, ready to protect if it came down to it. Toki had moved Malik from his shoulder to his lap to keep him close and secure. "Just...be careful, Ettie. It just finished a fight...approaching it now could be seen as encroaching on new territory, so whatever you do, do it carefully, and from a distance. If you have any food, drop it and back away slowly." He was sure she knew this, but providing the advice made him feel better.

Slowly, Toki dismounted and placed a grateful hand on Maria's mane. The air was still hot, but he dealt with it for now. "You know...food might work. What it just defeated doesn't look like it would make a very good meal." He mentioned, noticing more of the defeated Pokemon's odd metallic body. A steel type? Well, Cobalion was already steel, but this one looked outright mechanical like a machine.

Ettie was in agreement with Toki; there wasn't any sustenance to be found from this strange metallic pokemon. So perhaps, she'd be lucky enough to find it hungry enough to be put in a good mood with food!

Either way, she smiled to Toki - "Ettie careful," she promised, before slowly, cautiously, descending from the ridge. So far, the Gouging Fire did not take notice of her... Although, when she finally reached the level that the Paradox was on, it would raise its head to glance to her, and growled lowly.

Ettie, however, was not deterred. She was quick to remove a wrapped bundle of preserved meats from her bag - and unwrapping it, set it forth for the beast - cautiously stepping back as she did.

Which, the food seemed to get the Gouging Fire's attention. It regarded the meat for a few long moments, before stepping forth. Though it occasionally cast glances to Ettie, its attention was turned to the prospect of food - which it gobbled up readily.

And Ettie saw this as an in. She smiled a little as she play-bowed to the much-larger Paradox - wiggling - and made a sneezing-like sound to convey that very same playfulness. She was putting her all, in trying to convey friendliness in a way that any dog might understand!

The Gouging Fire did not seem interested in this extended olive branch, however. Because as soon as it finished the provided snack (because for as much as Ettie tried to provide, this beast most definitely ate more than what she could carry by herself...)

... It would turn its attentions to the friendly wildchild - and with a snarl, charged!

Though Ettie herself was taken by surprise, she was not alone. Sheathed at the small of her back, Scarlet stirred to life! The sheath would be used like a shield - brought in front to intercept a swiping claw from the Gouging Fire! And as the strike landed, the Disguise fell away - revealing the twin blades within..!

This all seemed to whip the pack into an instant fury - as a chorus of Howls would rise from the pack, emboldening not only themselves, but also Toki's pokemon as well! And leaping down from the ridge, the canines readily joined Ettie's side - prepared to protect their leader.

Toki nodded cautiously at Ettie's determination to befriend the Pokemon. Despite his fears, he was going to stand his ground thanks to her encouragement. Her courage resonated with him and inspired him. To continue on his path, he would have to face dangers and challenges such as this constantly. He wouldn't allow himself to back down now.

Ettie had come prepared, and while the Paradox Pokemon enjoyed the meal provided, it was far too small a portion for a creature its size. Ettie's attempts at playfulness, however, were met with an angry reaction. The beast snarled and charged suddenly "Ettie look out!" Toki called out before the Pokemon was stopped by Ettie's Doublade that was hidden on her.

The entire pack readied for battle. Azura and even Malik were prepared to fight. "Malik, you're at a disadvantage here...stay with me, you'll have your chance soon enough, okay?" Malik calmed down and understood the danger he would be in were he to go against a raging fire type. Azura, however, barked and sang along with the wolves...until a shining light engulfed her. A look of happiness and pride crossed Toki's face as Azura began her final evolution. To protect their friends, Azura's form grew larger and sea blue hair formed a mane behind her. Azura had evolved into Primarina!

"You've made so far! Alright...you're not giving up, and neither am I! Use your new attack, Sparkling Aria!" He commanded as Azura stood on her fin, the pearls around her hair flying away as she let began singing a long note. Orbs of water formed and arced towards the Gouging Fire, each one attempting to hit their mark with explosive force. Azura smiled proudly as she returned to an idle stance, ready for more action. 

Toki took out another Pokeball "I'm with you, Ettie! Aylin, Dragon Hammer!" He threw the ball, and as soon as the small Pokemon appeared, brandished her little hammer as a draconic aura formed around it. With a little battle cry, she threw her whole weight into the strike, aiming for its head.

The sun beats down on them, harsh and blinding. But the Gouging Fire almost seems to thrive in this heat; perhaps to be expected of a fire-type, but this is almost a step beyond. Its Protosynthesis leaves it energized as it watches the approach of other pokemon, eyes sweeping over its foes. Settling upon Yip, the Paradox charges - swiping with a Dragon Claw!

The Smeargle dances back a few paces - just able to dodge; though she is quick to duck when Anat comes in fast, to retaliate with a swinging Meteor Mash!

As the Gouging Fire takes a couple step backs from the attack, its fur begins to spark up in flames as it prepares some form of fire-type move... But, then comes Azura's Sparkling Aria; between the sun and dragon typing, it doesn't quite take as much damage from the water-type attack. But it's still enough to interrupt it, drawing out a startled snarl as it whips its head around to glare!

But, it seems as though the pack is no stranger to collaborating against a larger foe. The wolves circle around the Paradox, never allowing one of them to be within claw's reach for long. From behind, Ebon charges in - the midnight Lycanroc slamming a Stone Edge into the Gouging Fire's back. And as soon as it whirls around to try and retaliate, he is backing away - allowing for Barbara to strike in with a Feint Attack from another direction.

And in this, it is easy for Aylin to find an opening for her incoming Dragon Hammer! As it slams home, the Paradox stumbles back - clearly dazed by the strike, as it bellows, Howling with rage!

The pack is forced to break the circle and dodge, however, as the Paradox lights aflame - charging in Azura and Aylin's directions in a Raging Fury..!

All of their Pokemon worked in perfect unison with one another despite the intimidating foe. Attack after attack land, staggering yet angering them with each strike that lands true. The heat was bordering on unbearable, especially now that the Paradox Pokemon's fire flared with its rage. For most it would start sapping their strength before long.

Despite the flames, water type moves weren't very effective. The heat didn't help matters either, so different moves were needed. Aylin's Dragon Hammer, however, worked pretty well...another good hit and Ettie might be able to move in for the capture. Before he could give out his commands, the Gouging Fire charged towards both Azura and Aylin. Azura took Aylin in her arms and rolled to the side, shielding the smaller Pokemon. Raging Fury grazed Azura, the flames rushing by her as she let out a pained yelp, though she managed to avoid serious injury.

Toki grit his teeth "Azura! Hyper Voice! Aylin, follow up with Dragon Hammer!" With a deep breath, Azura sang a loud note, the soundwaves visible as they rippled through the air towards Gouging Fire. In a moment of mutual trust, Azura threw Aylin into the air as she gathered that energy once more. With a desperate cry, Aylin brought that infused hammer down onto its headplate. "Now's your chance, Ettie!"

As Azura dodges, the Gouging Fire slides to a stop - its claws digging in for traction as it turns around to face the group. Still wrapped up in its Raging Fury, the fire-cloaked beast bellows with rage, and once more goes into a charge!

Ettie, however, steps in now - Scarlet in either hand, the tassels of the Doublade wrapped around her forearms. She raises the twin blades in a Spiky Shield a wall of ghostly energy rising with the motion!

And the Gouging Fire is brought to a stop as it slams into the wall - roaring as the ghostly energies lash out at it in retaliation. It stumbles - startled and dazed from the impact, having been caught on guard...

... Which leaves it open, to a one-two punch from Azura and Aylin both. The Hyper Voice shakes it down to the bone, causing it to stagger - and the Dragon Hammer to the crest causes it to collapse, bellowing in bewilderment and pain alike.

Ettie sees her opportunity. She makes a low half-bark half-growl, and the pack advances - each one bringing their jaws around wherever they can hold to keep the Gouging Fire from getting back up, like wolves on an elk. This gives her time to pull an empty pokeball from her bag - which, as she approaches the beast, looking it in the eye, she taps the ball against it.

The Paradox is drawn in. Ettie - as well as the rest of the pack - watches, as the ball in her hand rocks once, twice, thrice...

... Before finally falling still with a click.

The wildchild lets out a drawn-out sigh of relief with this, returning Scarlet to their sheaths. But as the tension leaks out of Ettie, it's practically whiplash the way that she's suddenly all smiles, bouncing over to Toki. "Toki-friend hunts good! Thank you!"

With so many things happening at once, Toki lost track of time and everything felt so slow. These few seconds felt like an absolute eternity as each Pokemon used move after move in sequence. Scarlet's support, Aylin and Azura's combo attack, plus Ettie's Pokemon piling onto the Gouging Fire with incredible teamwork left the beast unable to escape.

With that, Ettie calmly placed a Pokeball against it and the day was won. She had caught something amazing if Toki's thoughts were anything to go by. Toki let out a loud sigh, having been holding his breath almost the whole time. The heat faded and the rampaging sounds of battle were replaced by a gentle, calm silence.

His focus quickly shifted to Azura, who had just evolved, but was also still in pain from the burn. Toki rushed to her side and dug in his pack for a potion and a burn heal. "Hold still, Azura..." He said gently as he sprayed the burn heal on first, then the potion. It stung for a moment, but eventually the pain numbed as Azura relaxed. "I'm proud of you...you've gotten so strong. And so have you Aylin! You two were great out there together."

Once everyone was gathered around, Toki carried Malik and Azura had Aylin on her back. "Oh it was nothing...I'm glad I was able to provide the necessary back up. Still, your synergy...that is, your ability to work together with your pack, is incredible. I haven't met anyone with the talent to lead so many Pokemon at once. Keep nurturing that and you and your team will make waves in the trainer world I bet." He said with a smile. "Now...let's get going, yeah? It's quiet now but the sounds of that battle might attract more than we bargained for. Our Pokemon could use a break."