24 hours before the Super-Gigantic Meteorite's projected impact,
Hoenn Region,
Rustboro Space Launch Center,
Before dawn, the Rustboro Space Launch Center blazed with light, yet remained unusually quiet.
There were no cheers, no media broadcasts, only the low rumble of engines and the hushed instructions of the staff.
This was a secret rescue operation.
Li Wei and Steven wore spacesuits that the Devon Corporation and Team Rainbow Rocket had poured their hearts into creating, with safety pushed to the limit.
These suits would not only protect them in the harsh environment of space,
but also came equipped with a Short-Range Communication Channel to Li Wei and a system that enhanced their Psychic Link with Pokémon,
which would be crucial for Steven to communicate and coordinate with Rayquaza.
After all, once they reached space, Steven would have no way to give Rayquaza spoken commands.
At most, he could use hand signals.
As for where this futuristic technology had come from?
All Steven could say was that it had something to do with Aura,
as well as Metagross's extraordinary brain.
Fortunately, even after they entered space, Steven would not necessarily have to direct the operation.
After all, Rayquaza had existed for who knew how many years.
Even without Steven's commands,
Rayquaza would know what to do.
"Ready?" Steven adjusted his helmet, his voice coming through the internal communications system.
"Ready."
Li Wei nodded, looking up toward the heavens.
There, two draconic silhouettes appeared amid the clouds.
They were Rayquaza and Black Rayquaza,
quietly waiting for Li Wei and Steven.
As agreed, they, together with Li Wei and Steven, were the last line of defense-the final measure to ensure the plan succeeded.
Only if every effort ahead of them failed would they use Dragon Ascent to shatter the meteorite.
Steven nodded. "Then we're