Updated
Chapter 3
The storm hit before we could make it to Viridian City but we found a cave to take cover in. I kept Ruby in her 'ball, remembering she doesn't do well in cold.
"Hey, Misty," Ash said, earning a glare from the red head. "I'm really sorry about your bike. I promise I'll make it up to you, but I'll need time. Okay?" He said it with such sincerity that Misty calmed and offered him a small smile.
"Fine," she said, extending a hand to him, "but I'm going to stick to you until you do."
"Deal." Ash grinned and shook her hand.
I sat back and watched the exchange, a smile of my own present. Ah the magic of destroying bikes in the Pokémon world, brings people together… or at least people in Ash's life.
The rain let up around sunset and with a little too much eagerness I ran out of the cave and started searching the sky. My eyes caught sight of my target, the golden form of Ho-Oh flying across a rainbow.
"Wow," Ash and Pikachu breathed out beside me.
No data found. There are still many Pokémon yet to be discovered. Ash's Pokédex read.
"It's Ho-Oh," I said. "It's the legendary Pokémon of rebirth."
A feather floated from the sky and Ash caught it in an outstretched hand. His eyes shined as he spun the feather between his fingers, watching the color catch the light in different ways.
"It's believed that Ho-Oh only gifts people with pure hearts one of its feathers," I said, watching Ash's excitement grow. "They're supposed to bring happiness to the possessor."
"What are you two looking at?" Misty asked, coming out of the cave. "Oh wow, look at that rainbow."
Ash slipped the feather into a pocket inside of his jacket, patting it once.
"Let's go!" he suddenly shouted and took off running.
"How does he have that much energy?" I asked a loud.
"He's your brother, isn't he?" Misty asked. We walked a little faster than needed to keep Ash in sight. He and Pikachu were hopping around laughing and splashing in a couple of puddles.
"No, like one, but no," I said. Man, I was definitely not in shape… that's something I needed to work on.
"Well, we just met, but," Misty puffed for air as we picked up speed, "I think you're an awesome big sister. Really nice. Caring."
I smiled at her as we finally caught up with Ash, standing atop a hill overlooking Viridian City. The orange light of sunset bathed the small city, making it glitter from the fresh rain puddles.
"Wow," I breathed out.
"Let's go!" Ash cheered and charged forward again. I shook my head with a little chuckle, as Misty and I headed down hill at a slower pace.
We reached Viridian just as the last ray of sunlight disappeared. Ash had beaten us there, but was delayed at the entrance to the city by an Officer Jenny.
"Come on! I'm not a thief!" Ash said, stomping his foot.
"Then why is that Pikachu not in a Pokéball?" Officer Jenny asked.
"Excuse me," I said, resting a hand on Ash's shoulder. "Sorry, Officer, my friend here is excitable." I slipped Ash's Pokédex from his pocket and passed it to Officer Jenny, followed by my own. Misty fished out a thick card from her own pocket and passed it over as well.
"Oh," Officer Jenny looked sheepish as she looked over our IDs. "I'm sorry! There's been some Pokémon thieves spotted around the city."
"No offense," I said, "but is harassing a kid a good way to deal with that."
Officer Jenny gave a nervous laugh, rubbing the back of her head with a slight blush.
"Anyways, could you point us to the Pokémon Center, please?" I asked.
After some quick directions and a short walk, which Ash actually slowed down for to do, we made it to the center. Nurse Joy took our Pokémon and gave us a room key. As it turns out rooms were free for trainers, but most centers asked those traveling together to share a room. It wasn't required, and there were rooms made for trainers to have all of their Pokémon out, even large ones like Gyarados. For now, however, I was fine sharing with the other two.
Ash went off to call his mom and Misty went to get a snack.
"Excuse me, One-Who-Is-All," a Chansey approached me meekly.
"Yes?"
"There is a wild Pokémon we have in our care," Chansey said, "and she requested to see you. She's an Absol, so I thought it best to agree."
"Of course," I said. I followed Chansey in to the back rooms, a bit confused. I wasn't sure what an Absol was doing in Kanto, but I knew better than to ignore one. Chansey opened a door for me, an Absol laid on the single bed in the room. The first thing I noticed, Absol was shiny. Where it should have been black, it was blood red, its white fur had a slight reddish hue to it and its eyes were bright green.
"One-Who-Is-All," Absol bowed her head to me. "Forgive me for not standing. The poison in my system is almost gone, but I must wait another… three minutes before I should move." Chansey excused herself to get back to work.
"No problem," I said. "Is something bad going to happen?"
"Yes," Absol nodded. "I tried to interfere sooner, but was outnumbered and ill prepared. They are going to attack here… soon, and if we don't stop them…" Absol shuddered, fear in her eyes. "The world could be destroyed."
"Two people, male and female, with a talking Meowth?" I asked. Absol blinked back surprise and nodded. "Yeah, I can handle them. I actually had a plan to help them become better people." I had actually been thinking of different plans since deciding to travel with Ash. Jessie, James, and Meowth had fantastic potential, especially when they helped during the movies, so I figured why not help them along.
Absol closed her eyes for a moment before nodding.
"It should work," Absol said. "I see no looming disaster should your plan be set in motion."
"Awesome," I smiled. Absol smiled back before shaking her fur out and stretched before leaping off the bed.
"My name's Brit, by the way," I said. "No need for formalities."
"Of course," Absol said and dipped her head to me. Another shudder went through Absol's body. "They're here!"
Absol and I ran to the lobby, just as Team Rocket seemed to finish up their motto. Glass shards littered the floor from the broken skylight. Ash and Misty stood together, Pikachu on Ash's shoulder with sparking cheeks. The same Chansey from earlier ran over to me and passed me Ruby's Pokéball.
"Hey, Jessie, wasn't that Pikachu supposed to be injured?" James asked.
"Obviously we are the ones that injure it," Jesse said. "Go Ekans! Poison Sting that boy!"
"What!?" I shouted. Without thinking I threw Ruby's 'ball, releasing her in front of Ash. "Block the hit!"
Ash stumbled backwards as Venus took the Poison Sting. She shook it off with no problem and released a thick stream of Dragon Rage at Ekans.
"Koffing go! Poison Gas!" James called.
"Misty! Use Starmie's psychic attacks! Ash start shocking them! Ruby! Keep using Dragon Rage!" I called off. Something in my voice seemed to resonate in Misty as she suddenly snapped to action, releasing both Starmie and Staryu. Ruby fought against the poisonous gas with Dragon Rage, igniting the gases and blasting Koffing away. Ash took a moment longer to react before calling out for Pikachu to attack.
"Absol, use Razor Wind and aim it on their balloon," I said. Absol nodded and focused on the air in front of her.
Pikachu shot forward in a Quick Attack and slammed into Koffing before he could regain himself, sending him spiraling through the air. Staryu caught him with a Water Gun, followed by Pikachu using Thunder Shock. Ekans slithered forward, mouth glowing with purple energy. She reared back, aiming towards Ash and was slammed in the side by a Psychic from Starmie. Ekans did not get up again.
"Starmie, immobilize the humans!" I called. I briefly registered Misty's affronted look that quickly turned to shock as Starmie obeyed me. It held Jessie and James in the air with Psychic.
"Now ya done it," Meowth said and leapt forward. I stepped in his path and watched as he floundered to stop, eyes wide. He landed in my arms, remaining silent as my request.
Staryu and Pikachu stood over Koffing's unconscious body and Ruby made sure Ekans stayed down. Absol cried out and sliced her scythe-like horn through the air, the swirling wind in front of her broke up and slashed out as sharp blades, striking the Meowth shaped hot air balloon.
"Alright! Take that!" Ash cheered.
Police lights flashed down the road so I only had a limited time.
"Keep the Pokémon locked down," I said as I walked over to Jessie and James, Meowth still in my arms.
"I don't get it," Jessie muttered, "that psychic said we'd win if we got rid of the boy!"
I stood in front of them, eyeing them carefully.
"Do you trust me, Meowth?" I asked, looking down at him in my arms. He nodded vigorously.
"Then trust me, all of you, when I tell you whatever you've been told is not the truth," I said, voice dropping low. "I don't know who told you to attack Ash straight out, but they weren't looking out for you. So let me tell you what your future would really be. Day after day of nonstop failure, of going to sleep hungry every night, of never earning the respect you so desired. Losing nearly every battle and becoming a major laughing stock."
They all paled, sharing looks with each other as I went quiet.
"Now, let me tell you what it could be," I said. "You can reform. Leave Team Rocket together and become the people you really want to be. Jesse, you can become a coordinator, dazzle the audience with your beauty and your Pokémon. James, you can be free to pursue whatever you want, no expectations. Sneak home and take Growlie and be free together. Meowth, you're with people that understand what you've been through. Outcast and alone. The three of you could be the family you've always wanted and free to follow your dreams."
"Growlie," James whispered longingly. "How do you know about him?"
"Because I know things, James," I said.
Officer Jenny entered the center, a few officers following her.
"Trust me and I'll make sure you guys are happy," I said, "or stay as you are and be failuers your whole lives."
"Happy," all three said at once.
"Good," I said and stood up. Officer Jenny made her way over to me, a Growlithe at her side. "Go with Jenny for now, I'll make sure everything works out."
I stepped aside, nodding to Starmie to release Jessie and James. Officer Jenny slapped on handcuffs and her officers took the two away. Meowth, Ekans, and Koffing were put in a separate van that would take them to a rehab facility for Pokémon.
Statements had to be given to Officer Jenny, and apparently a small reward would be given to the three of us; 3000 Poké each. Finally, after offering to help Nurse Joy clean up and being refused, Misty and Ash went to bed, adrenaline wearing off. Nurse Joy took our Pokémon for another check-up while I stepped outside to make a call.
The night air was cool, but not freezing as it was summer. A few stars were visible despite the light of the city. I briefly wondered about the different constellations that would be in this world, but that was for another time. I flipped my Pokénav open and selected one of the few numbers programmed into it.
"Brit? Are you okay? What's wrong?" Lance's voice came through after the first ring. A moment later his face appeared on the screen. He looked tired, but judging by the background I don't think he had been asleep.
"Fine?" I said, a bit confused. "I was calling to ask a favor, actually. I know there are rehab centers for Pokémon, but what about people?"
"Of course," Lance said.
"There are two people, Team Rocket grunts, that just attacked Viridian City Pokémon Center," I explained.
"What!?" Lance shouted, leaning forward.
"Don't interrupt," I said. "These two people, a talking Meowth, and their Pokémon were major characters in the show in my world. I want to reform them because I think they would do immensely well as good guys. If you can send someone to get them tomorrow and Meowth, I guarantee they will do great things."
Lance was silent, clearly thinking it over before typing something off screen.
"I'll take care of it," he said. "I'm going to trust you on this one. I'll even push through for the Meowth to join them, but their other Pokémon will have to wait until the counselors approve them to handle Pokémon."
"Thank you, Lance," I said. "They mentioned something about a psychic telling them stuff. That may need to be explored some."
"I'll keep an ear to the ground," Lance nodded. "Besides that, how are you adjusting?"
"Pretty well, I think," I said. "I have to get in shape, that's for sure, but honestly this is a dream come true, so no complaints. I have a Gible, curtesy of Cynthia." I smirked as he rolled his eyes.
"Of course she'd go with Gible," Lance muttered. "Though I guess my choice would've be a Dratini."
"Are you doing alright with a dragon? They can be tricky for new trainers." Lance asked.
"I've been raising dragons since I was five, son," I laughed. "I think I can do it. Plus, the whole thing about me… seems every Pokémon is instantly chill with me."
"That's good at least," Lance said. "But if you have any questions, don't hesitate to call."
"I won't. Just don't freak out next time I call." I said, followed by a yawn. "I should get some sleep. Goodnight."
Lance yawned too, and sent me a playful glare.
"Curse you," he muttered around another yawn. "Goodnight."
I hung up and stretched, turning to head back inside. Absol waited for me just inside.
"I didn't want to interrupt," Absol said.
"No problem," I said. "Need something?"
"A request, if I may," she waited for my nod to continue. "I would like to come with you as one of your Pokémon."
"Really?" I blinked in surprise. "Sure! I'd love to have you. My bag is in the room; I can catch you then."
She nodded and followed me to the back. I slipped into the room, Ash and Misty fast asleep. I fished out a Pokéball and my Pokédex before slipping back into the hall. Absol tapped the 'ball with her nose and was sucked in. The Pokéball clicked immediately and I let her back out to scan her before I turned in.
Absol, the Disaster Pokémon. Rumored to sense disasters with its horn, they come down from the mountains to warn people of impending disasters.
This Absol is female and has the ability Super Luck, which raises its ability to land critical hits. She knows the moves: Perish Song, Future Sight, Scratch, Feint, Leer, Quick Attack, Pursuit, Taunt, Bite, Me First, Razor Wind. She has the egg moves: Megahorn and Play Rough which haven't been unlocked.
Note: the coloration of this Absol indicates it is shiny.
"Nice," I said. "Would you like a nickname? I was thinking Athena, she's a goddess of wisdom from my world."
"I like that," Absol – now Athena – said.
"Great. Would you like to stay out of your Pokéball or go in?" I asked.
Athena opted to stay out and curled up beside me on my bed as I passed out.
XXX
We all left the Pokémon Center bright and early the next morning wanting to reach Viridian Forest quickly, but first I needed to make a detour. I told the two I'd meet them at forest entrance and took a side street in the city.
Athena and Ruby were walking on either side of me, happily getting to know each other. I found my intended destination with ease given how fancy the building was compared to the rest of the city. Viridian City gym in all its glory.
Two beefy guards stood at the main entrance and gave me a hard stare when I got close. They weren't my concern, anyways, because what I needed to do didn't require me to get any closer. I stood in front of the gym's fountain and calmed myself.
"May I help you?" a deep voice came from behind me. I turned to meet Giovanni, gym leader, business man, rich guy, creator of Mewtwo, and leader of Team Rocket… not good.
He eyed me and my Pokémon over, eyes lingering longer on Athena. His Persian stood at his side, the usual shock of seeing me not present on his face, though I suppose the Classy Cat could reign in its emotions better.
"I was just looking," I said. I rested a hand on Athena's head, feeling the slight tensing of her body.
"Not to challenge?" Giovanni asked, an eyebrow raised.
"No, I just started my journey yesterday," I said. "It would be a death sentence for my Pokémon to challenge you now."
"At least someone does their research," Giovanni said. His gaze was calculating, as if he were trying to figure me out, then a spark of recognition lit his eyes.
"Are you, by chance, Brit?" he asked.
"Yeah…" I was definitely caught off guard by that.
"Forgive me," he said, a hand placed to his chest as he bowed slightly. His smile was friendly, but I knew better than to trust him. "Champion Lance called a meeting after your… arrival. All of the gym leaders, Elite Four, and those worthy of knowing, know about you, Pokémorph." He said the word in a way that sent my inner alarms blaring, but I kept my composure. I knew he knew, so best to act like nothing else was up.
"If there is anything I can help you with while you are in my city, please let me know," he said.
"Thank you," I said. The less he thinks I know the better… maybe Lance kept some things from everyone. "I'm afraid I'm leaving today, however. I'll be back, of course, once I feel ready to challenge you."
"I will gladly await your challenge," Giovanni said. He reached a hand into his suit and pulled out a card from a hidden pocket. "Should you ever need anything." He passed me the card, his information printed on it in raised gold lettering.
"I feel we could be," he held my gaze, neither of us wavering, "mutually beneficial for the other."
"I feel that too," I said, taking his card and stuck it in my pocket. Leader of Team Rocket's number… could be useful, dangerous, but useful should the situation call for it.
His gaze shifted to Athena again.
"I've always wondered if I should get an Absol of my own," he said. "Perhaps yours can see if anything will be happening to me in the future?"
I glanced at Athena.
"I see something, but it's not for a long while," Athena told me.
"She said, beware of psychic Pokémon, a powerful one will turn on you if you aren't careful," I said. "Pleasure meeting you, Giovanni." I nodded and turned to walk off, a smirk on my face, the look on his face was worth it. Ruby and Athena followed by my side, neither glancing back. I could feel his stare on the back of my head as I kept going. There was still something I had to do before I got too far away.
'Mewtwo,' I thought. A sudden pressure dropped down on my mind, like a migraine minus the pain. 'My name is Brit. Pokémon call me One-Who-Is-All, humans call me Pokémorph. I wanted you to know, if you ever need someone to talk to, someone who can understand you, feel free to come find me. I know you don't know me, but I know you, better than you might think possible. Just know, you have a friend in me. Be safe, and I hope we meet in person someday.'
There was no response, but I felt the pressure probe my mind, so I thought of everything I knew about Mewtwo. I felt something akin to acceptance before the pressure disappeared. With that done, I made my way to the forest entrance where Ash and Misty were waiting for me.
XXX
Ash was eager as always to get a move on, thankfully Misty kept him still until I got there. I could see Misty tensing more and more the further we got into the forest. I slipped my arm around hers and had Athena walk on the other side of her. Ash walked ahead of us with Pikachu, anxious to catch his first Pokémon.
"So bug-types," I said to Misty. A shudder racked her body.
"Don't worry, I'll be with you the whole time," I assured. "I can help you work through it, if you want."
"How?" Misty asked.
"Trust, mostly," I said. "Trust I won't let anything hurt you nor will I make fun of you."
Misty stared at me for a long moment before nodding, tightening her grip on my arm.
"A Caterpie!" Ash shouted suddenly. "Pokéball go!"
One Pokémon down. The next phase of my plan would begin after he caught Pidgeotto.
Nothing past catching Caterpie happened on our first day of the forest. Upon my request, Ash kept Caterpie away from Misty… after he discovered her fear and tried to play on it. The rest of the time we spent walking. I had Misty look at Caterpie from time to time while we walked, assuring her he wouldn't harm her. Ash took my advice with Pikachu and put it to use with Caterpie, getting to know the bug-type and sharing his goals.
We found the clearing I remembered from the anime, with the tree stump that Pikachu and Caterpie talk on, and set up camp. Turns out… I was the only one that knew how to cook… Ash whined until the food was heated up. He passed out almost instantly after eating, thankfully Misty did the dishes.
Pidgeotto appeared right on cue the next morning.
"Alright! I'm going to catch it!" Ash declared. "Go Pokéball!" Misty facepalmed. Pidgeotto broke out of the 'ball instantly.
"You have to weaken a Pokémon first!" Misty yelled.
"I knew that," Ash griped and threw Caterpie's 'ball.
"Ash! You idiot! Birds eat worms!" Misty yelled. She might hate bugs but she wasn't heartless. Pidgeotto, angry from the failed catch, started pecking at Caterpie, chasing the poor Pokémon, a foul odor started to fill the air. Ash returned Caterpie immediately and Pikachu jumped forward. Pidgeotto changed targets, diving towards Pikachu… and instantly regretted it.
Electricity coursed through the flying-types body, making it scream out in pain. Pikachu shot forward, the white light of Quick Attack trailed behind him, and knocked Pidgeotto out. Ash threw another Pokéball, this one successful, and cheered as he grabbed his new Pokémon.
"See that, Misty," Ash bragged, "I caught it!"
"Barely," Misty muttered, crossing her arms. "Really, all I saw were a bunch of rookie mistakes."
"What!" Ash shouted. Before he continued, I cut him off.
"She's right, Ash," I said, my voice stern. I tried to embody how I saw Delia talk to Ash when she wanted him to listen and it seemed to work as Ash's shoulders sagged. He looked at me a little hurt.
"Look, Ash, you want to be a Pokémon Master, right?" I asked.
"Of course! That's my dream!" Ash declared.
"Then act like it!" I said with a little more force than intended. Ash shrunk back a little as he looked at me. "I want you to succeed, Ash, and I'll do anything in my power to help you, but you need to be willing to do the work. Nobody just becomes a master, you have to work for it, earn it. If you're serious about this, really serious, then I'll help you. There's no shame in getting help. In fact, it's the best way to grow stronger." I held a hand out to him, a smile on my face.
Ash stared at me, a fire in his eyes, and he took my hand, gripping it tight.
"I'll do anything! What should I do?" Ash asked.
"First, release Pidgeotto and Caterpie for healing," I said. Ash nodded, holding up both Pokéballs. I pulled a couple of potions out of my bag and passed one over to Ash. I instructed him to take care of Pidgeotto while I took Caterpie to the side.
"Misty," I said, holding Caterpie in my hand. I saw her shudder, a little "eep" noise escapingher. "I need you to hold Caterpie while I spray him." She was ready to protest, but stopped at my look. With shaky hands, she allowed Caterpie to crawl on her, her eyes squeezed shut. I quickly sprayed Caterpie, who trilled in relief, and took him back right away. Misty opened one eye then the other, sighing in relief when Caterpie was no longer in her hands.
"T-thank you, One-Who-Is-All," Caterpie said. "S-sorry to be a bother."
"You did fine, Caterpie," I assured, rubbing a finger over his head.
"Now," I said, turning back to Ash, "we begin training. Scan your new Pokémon, so we know their move sets, please."
Ash nodded and pulled out his Pokédex, pointing it first at Caterpie.
"Caterpie, the Worm Pokémon. Caterpie are often targeted by bird Pokémon and will release a foul smell from their antennae to fight them off.
This Caterpie is male and has the ability Shield Dust, which removes secondary effects of damaging moves used on the Pokémon. His hidden ability, Run Away, has been unlocked, allowing it to have a higher chance of getting away from opponents. He knows the moves: Tackle, String Shot, and Bug Bite."
"Pidgeotto, the bird Pokémon, and the evolved form of Pidgey. Pidgeotto claim large areas of territory and protect it mercilessly with their sharp talons. They are able to carry prey up to 60 miles away.
This Pidgeotto is female and has the ability Keen Eye, which insures its accuracy can never be lowered. She knows the moves: Tackle, Sand Attack, Gust, and Quick Attack. She has the egg moves: Feint Attack and Steel Wing, which have not been unlocked, and Pursuit, which has been unlocked."
Pidgeotto was better off than I thought and Steel Wing will probably be easier to learn since she has it as an egg move.
"The first gym specializes in rock-types," I said, "and right now, your team is vulnerable to rock-type attacks, but we can fix that."
"Type advantage doesn't matter!" Ash said.
"It does and it doesn't," I said, firmly. "Most Pokémon are capable of learning moves to counter their weaknesses. Pidgeotto can learn Steel Wing, like the name suggests is steel-type, which is super effective against rock-types and ice-types, both of which she is weak too."
"Is that…" I heard Pidgeotto whisper to Pikachu, her wing pointed towards me. Pikachu nodded in response, smirking at Pidgeotto's amazement.
"But she isn't a steel-type," Ash said thoughtfully.
"Right," I nodded. "Similarly, Pikachu is able to learn Iron Tail, but also other moves like Brick Break or Grass Knot. All are effective against rock-types, but Grass Knot would be a good move to teach, as it also hurts ground-types."
"Why is that important?" Ash asked. I started to wonder the qualifications of kids that began their journeys.
"Electric-types are only weak to ground-type moves," Misty answered.
"Which reminds me," I said, turning a critical eye on Misty. "If I'm training Ash, then you're getting trained too. You want to be a water-type master? Then let's get to work."
I pulled up videos on my Pokédex, they were like smart phones without the phone feature… I-pod touches… that's what they're like. The fact that they got internet out here was amazing.
Professor Oak had gifted me with training tools, like weights, and I passed those to Ash. Pidgeotto would work on unlocking Steel Wing while Pikachu was tasked with both Iron Tail and Grass Knot. He used weights for both Pokémon for strengthening then Pikachu went to sit in a grassy area to focus on grass-type energy in the area. Caterpie would start by using his moves and perfecting them, later I would suggest learning Electro Web with Pikachu.
For Misty, since we were next to a stream she was able to train Goldeen. Turns out Starmie wasn't actually her Pokémon, but her sister's that was given to her to keep her safe… though she didn't see it as the caring gesture it was. Starmie would listen to Misty, but was apparently stronger than her other Pokémon. Staryu, on the other hand, was her starter.
"So the issue I saw from your battle with Ash, was control and timing," I said. "In a multiple opponent battle, having Staryu use Water Gun from all points would be useful. Fighting against an electric-type, however…" I let her fill in the blank, hiding a laugh as she shot a glare towards Ash.
"Let's focus on a single point and increase the power input, then work on cutting that power for short, strong blasts," I said. "Goldeen…" I rubbed my chin in thought. "Can I see her Pokéball?" Misty nodded and passed it over and I scanned it with my Pokédex, skipping the info and going straight for the moves. Turns out, simply scanning a wild Pokémon or one caught by someone else only gives the basic info, but Pokémon caught by a Pokédex holder has its info immediately uploaded from the Pokéball itself. So, scanning a Pokéball of another trainer will allow the Pokédex to gather the rest of the info of the Pokémon.
Goldeen knew the moves: Peck, Tail Whip, Water Sport, Supersonic, Horn Attack, and Flail, along with the locked egg move Signal Beam. Misty was surprised by the egg move, so we set on Goldeen unlocking it.
I may be new to the world, but the anime, and the copious amounts of fanfiction I read, gave me a general idea on how to do everything, not to mention the Pokédex videos. Once I was confident on their training, I set to my own.
Ruby knew Metal Claw, an egg move long since unlocked during her training with Cynthia and her mother, so I had her work on strengthening is against rocks since she'd be my main battler for the gym. Athena ran through her moves to let me know how she felt for them, she was my most experienced Pokémon at the moment and she knew it.
That was our morning, and we continued traveling after lunch. At night, after dinner, I would go off a bit to meditate and try to figure out my supposed power with little luck. The pattern continued through our week of traveling, with Pidgeotto making the quickest progress.
With Pursuit unlocked she was able to get an understanding for Feint Attack, while not mastered, it was at the point it wouldn't miss. Steel Wing was just as easy for her with the wing strengthening, she was going to do well in the gym battle. Pikachu had more luck with Iron Tail than with Grass Knot, though he couldn't hold it long. I didn't want to hold Ash's hand through training, letting him figure solutions out on his own. If it came down to it, I would hint at him about building up the power before using it, like Pikachu in the anime doing jump flips before using Iron Tail. I guess Caterpie made the real progress, however, or should I say, Metapod.
Without Team Rocket attacking, Caterpie didn't have the battle experience to evolve, but the vigorous training seemed to do it. His excitement for managing a spark of electricity on his second try of Electro Web caused the evolution.
Misty took to the training faster than Ash, which was saying something because Ash was really fired up. She began drilling her Pokémon with techniques her sisters apparently used, though she wouldn't say more than that. Starmie helped, correcting stances or timing, and gave examples. It was more effective for Staryu, with the similar body type, but Goldeen was progressing too. Misty gained the idea to have Goldeen use Water Sport while she was out of the water in order to battle on land. It wasn't perfect, but she was getting there.
For my Pokémon, Athena practiced Razor Wind, speeding up the process, and Future Sight in hopes of directing its location instead of being a generalized blast. Ruby, on the other hand, figured out on her own how to use Metal Claw as a way to train herself to use Slash and Dragon Claw. Slash, was easy, simply removing the steel-type energy and leaving normal-type behind. Dragon Claw, despite her being a dragon-type, took much more focus. I sent messages to Lance and Cynthia for advice, both sent back roughly the same thing: dragon moves – outside of Dragon Rage – take a while to learn. The fact she was already getting a handle on the move impressed Lance, though Cynthia accredited it to her own Garchomp's genetics.
On our last day in the forest was the first time we saw another person, but first another Pokémon was to be caught. Ash followed my lead, keeping all of his Pokémon out of their Pokéballs as we walked, Metapod held in his arms. Misty's Pokémon, unfortunately, didn't do well moving on land.
"A Weedle!" Ash called, but before he could call a Pokémon to battle I stopped him.
"Wait," I said, "I think Misty should catch it."
"What!?" Both kids yelled. Weedle stared at us, curious.
"You've been doing great with Metapod, now take the next step," I said, gesturing to Weedle. "If it really doesn't work, then I'll take Weedle."
Misty gulped, but stepped forward and released Staryu. Ash stepped back with a grumble.
"Water Gun!" Misty called, shifting into her battle mode.
Staryu shot a high powered Water Gun from her top point. It struck Weedle, sending the little bug rolling backwards. Surprisingly, it got back up and charged forward, poison dripping from its spike. On Misty's call, Staryu used Rapid Spin to dodge, and hit Weedle from behind as it charged past. Weedle rolled with the hit, shot a String Shot at Staryu, and pulled itself closer. Its spike hit just above Staryu's gem, making the star Pokémon grunt before releasing a low powered Psywave. Weedle struggled to get up this time and Misty took the chance to throw her Pokéball. Three wiggles and it clicked in confirmation.
Misty was torn between excitement and discomfort as she picked up the Pokéball. She released Weedle without me urging her too and took a steadying breath as she crouched to its level.
"Hi, Weedle," she said. "My name's Misty and I'm afraid of bug-types." Weedle cooed in confusion, allowing Misty to spray it with a potion as she continued to speak. "My friend over there," she nodded in my direction, "is helping me get over that fear. I… I know she asked me to catch you to help with that, but I'm still kind of freaked out." Weedle dropped its head sadly. "I want to get past this," her voice grew more determined, "so if you can please be patient with me, I'm sure I can do it."
Weedle met Misty's gaze and trilled happily moving closer to its new trainer. Misty tensed visibly and Weedle stopped and trilled at her. Misty might not have understood the words, but she got the meaning.
"Thank you, Weedle," Misty said. She held up its Pokéball and returned it before passing it to me. "Can you tell me its gender and moves please? I… I don't want to call Weedle an it."
Weedle was female and knew Poison Sting, String Shot, and Bug Bite, and, like Caterpie, had both abilities.
"Disaster," Athena suddenly said. She twisted around and lunged at the bushes to our right. There was a grunt and a cry of surprise… she found Samurai.
The sword wielding boy had the nerve to be angry at being attacked, but shut up at my glare. Apparently, being an adult on a journey really had its perks.
"Are any of you from Pallet Town?" Samurai asked.
"I am," Ash said.
"Then I challenge you to a battle," Samurai declared. "I have been bested by three trainers from Pallet Town already, I will not be beaten by a third."
I looked at Athena, who still seemed tense.
"You know his sword wouldn't have hit anyone," I said.
"I still feel something bad is going to occur," Athena warned. I nodded and payed attention to the area.
"You're on!" Ash called, accepting Samurai's challenge.
"Two a side," Samurai declared. "Go, Metapod!"
"I'll use my own Metapod!" Ash declared right back. Metapod managed to wriggle-jump out of Ash's arms onto the field. It was the most movement the cocoon could do in his current state.
"Aha! I'll show you just how superior my Metapod is! Go! Harden!" Samurai ordered. Kid was an idiot…
"Metapod, use Harden too!" Ash said. That occurred two more times aside before I spoke up.
"Ash… please don't keep using Harden," I muttered, loud enough for him to hear me. He had the decency to color some.
"Right," Ash nodded and gave his next order. "Metapod, Zap String!" That caught me off guard.
Metapod released a String Shot that wrapped around Samurai's Metapod before becoming electrified. It was a great combo… not sure when he came up with it, but Ash Ketchum was always full of surprises.
Samurai's Metapod cried out and fainted almost instantly, all that hardening did nothing to stop electricity.
"Not possible!" Samurai cried.
Metapod made a noise of celebration before suddenly started glowing. A moment later, a Butterfree flew into the air with a joyous cry.
"Butterfree, the Butterfly Pokémon, and the evolved form of Metapod. When attacked by other Pokémon it spreads its poisonous scales in the air.
Upon evolution, Butterfree's ability has become Compound Eyes, which raises his accuracy, and his hidden ability is Tinted Lens, which powers up attacks that aren't effective against the opponent. He has learned the moves: Gust, Confusion, Poison Powder, Sleep Powder, and Stun Spore."
"Way to go, Butterfree!" Ash cheered. Butterfree came to land on Ash's head, chittering in excitement.
"You got lucky!" Samurai said. "But not again! Go, Pinsir!"
"Pidgeotto!" Ash called for his bird Pokémon. Pidgeotto swooped out of the sky, screeching out in challenge.
"Your bird has nothing on my superior bug Pokémon!" Samurai said. "Pincer! Crush that bird! Vice Grip!"
The yelling was starting to give me a headache. Misty seemed to feel the same.
"Dodge and use Gust!" Ash called. Pidgeotto dodged with finesse, twisting to face Pinsir's back and flapped her wings hard to create a Gust tornado. Pinsir grunted in pain as it turned around and lumber towards Pidgeotto.
"Vice Grip!" Samurai yelled. Pidgeotto flew above Pinsir, gliding on a small draft as she turned around and used Gust again. Samurai's face reddened as he realized he was going to lose again.
"Enough play time! Hyper Beam!" Samurai ordered.
"Use Steel Wing to deflect!" Ash called.
"No!" Athena shouted. It was too late. Pinsir's Hyper Beam, definitely on the weak side, struck Pidgeotto's steel coated wings and was deflected into the forest. Pidgeotto swooped down as Pinsir recharged and rammed her wing into its chest, knocking Pinsir out.
"We need to run," Athena said and I repeated with urgency.
"Why?" Samurai asked. Misty and Ash trusted my word and we took off down the path, Samurai trailing behind us. A moment later, the area filled with the buzzing of wings.
A swarm of Beedrills rose from the trees and chased after us
"His Hyper Beam hit one of their hives," Athena said as she ran by my side. I fumbled for a moment as I grabbed for Ruby's Pokéball and returned her.
Butterfree and Pidgeotto flanked us, dodging around trees and sending Gusts behind us to slow the Beedrill. Misty's foot caught on a root and she hit the ground hard. She cried out, Ash and I sliding to a halt moving to help her. The two flying-types moved to hold off the swarm, wings working hard to keep up their Gusts. Ash ordered a Thunder Shock and Athena whipped up a Razor Wind.
Weedle's Pokéball bounced on the ground and released her, just as a Beedrill broke from the swarm and swooped down towards her, needles dripping with clear poison. Misty was too terrified to scream, her eyes wide in horror as she watched the Beedrill close in on her.
Weedle cried out, String Shot spraying from her mouth, snagging Beedrill's wings. She pulled hard, knocking Beedrill to the ground. The angry bee Pokémon turned its attention to Weedle, buzzing loudly as it charged again. Weedle didn't have time to dodge and was slammed back by a Twin Needle attack.
That snapped Misty out of her fear.
"Weedle!" Misty cried and lunged forward. She covered Weedle's body with her own, waiting for the inevitable pain of Beedrill.
"Misty!" I screamed in fear for my friend. I ran forward as Beedrill charged Misty, knowing I wouldn't make it in time. I felt something in me… spark… and suddenly I was ramming into Beedrill, a white glow over my body.
That caught the swarm's attention, their angry buzzing turning to a muted hum.
"One-Who-Is-All," the swarm said, all of them repeating the words over and over.
With a new found rage, I stood tall in front of Misty, gaze set on the Beedrill.
"Go home! Now!" I ordered. The Beedrill didn't hesitate as they turned tail and fled, their injured comrade trailing behind them. I turned my glare on Samurai, who paled under it.
"Take us to your cabin. Now," I growled out. Athena took up an intimidating stance beside me and spiked fear into the boy.
Ash ran to help Misty up, checking she was okay, and supported her as Samurai led the way. Misty held Weedle close to her chest the whole way.
Once at the cabin, I took a look at Misty's ankle, which was pretty swollen. Samurai packed some ice for her, keeping quiet under my eye and retreated to the kitchen once done.
"Thank you, Weedle," Misty whispered, cuddling the bug-type. "You were so brave."
"I didn't want you to be hurt," Weedle said. "I hope you're not more afraid of bugs now."
"I don't think I can ever be afraid of you, now," Misty whispered and pressed a kiss to Weedle's head, just below the spike. Weedle trilled happily before becoming enveloped in the light of evolution.
"You… you evolved," Misty said in awe. She grinned and held Kakuna closer. "I'm so proud of you."
Ash and I let Misty have her moment and stepped into the kitchen.
"We'll move out tomorrow," I said. "Give Misty's ankle a little time to heal."
"You may stay here, if you wish," Samurai offered.
"Damn straight," I said. "You, mister, need to learn when certain moves are appropriate. That Hyper Beam was highly inappropriate and clearly not well controlled. Someone could've been seriously hurt."
"I am truly sorry," Samurai bowed deeply. "I would never wish for the harm of innocents. Please, forgive me."
"I will," I said, "but you need to train more. Not just your Pokémon, but yourself too. You lost your cool out there and that was your downfall."
"I will take your words to heart, Sensei," Samurai said. That caught me off guard, but I wasn't going to refuse it.
The next morning, we set out for Pewter City. Our first gym battle awaited us, as did our next traveling companion… and a hot shower.
AN/ Hi, hope you enjoy… this was a long chapter… I want Ash to be his normal self, but you know… smarter… and actually trying to accomplish his goal rather than just stating it. Also some growth in Misty. Let me know what you think.