Author's Note:
'THIS IS A DOUBLE CHAPTER UPLOAD.'
I have to give a shout-out to two users on ff.
1) Bardothren: This guy gave me a detailed review of my work and has taught me many things I can't even list. If you have time, give his writing a read. His vivid imagery of scenes and world-building is simply astounding.
2) MythGirl Writes: She is my beta reader. She fixed most of my grammar and punctuation errors. Without her, this chapter would've never turned out the way it did.
I sincerely thank both of you.
This is a dialogue-intensive chapter so, description lovers, I am sorry but a lot of introductions have been made, hence I had no other alternative.
I found a new way of differentiation sounds and thoughts. The format from now on would be this.
Human Speech: "Hello"
Pokémon Speech: "Hello"
Human Thoughts: "Hello"
Pokémon Thoughts: "Hello"
Sounds: [Bam]
I am sorry for any inconvenience, but I recently found this format. I also made the necessary changes to the previous chapters.
Chapter is divided into two parts for convenience. I'm trying to keep each chapter under 10,000 words.
Disclaimer: Few cheesy moments ahead. I tried to avoid them as much as I could, but what else can you expect? Ash and Serena are teenagers after all.
I loved writing these two chapters, I hope you'll like it too.
"Stop dreaming and come fast, Serena."
"Coming, Shauna." Serena quickened her pace, trotting to her previous casual stroll. She vigilantly crossed the asphalt street, habitually holding her hand out, an attempt to slow the non-existent vehicles. She reached the far side of the street where the Kalos Academy and the regional professor's laboratory were situated, both connected by the same access gate. Shauna stood there, waiting for her, her arms crossed and brow narrowed. "You know that we need not hurry, right? We are already too early."
"Yeah, because you wanted to come so soon, but that does not allow you to walk at the speed of an eighty-year-old."
"I'm sorry, I should have walked faster." Serena grinned apologetically. She had been dazing off in trance all morning, barely concentrating on anything else other than her eventual reunion with Ash.
"What's wrong with you, Serena? You've never been like this before." Shauna's perplexed frown, backed by a mountain of queries, nearly shook Serena off her feet.
"Noth… Nothing Shauna," Serena stuttered, swaying her hands in front of her face, and hiding it behind her long hair. This was her way of concealing her embarrassed look. Shauna knew of quite well, unfortunately. She hoped her friend ignored her body language. "Shall we go now?" She evaded the topic.
"All right, but stop getting lost in dreams with Ash for now, at least." Shauna grinned slyly. She spun around and paraded into the open fence gate.
"Shauna!" Serena shrieked, but received no response. She sighed in defeat and followed her friend inside. She treaded on the lush lawn which further diverged into two pebbled pathways. One led towards the academy while the other led towards the professor's laboratory.
She took the one on the left, heading towards the academy. While on her way, she flicked a glance to the side, eying the miniature laboratory, possibly closed because of the day's program. She could never get her head around how the professor conducted his research in such a small building, but there he was, proving everybody wrong. Maybe he voluntarily restricted the lab's expansion, leaving enough room for the artificial ranch behind it, or maybe he lacked enough resources, or maybe both, she could never discern. But either way, Professor Sycamore and his assistant Sophie, handled both the academy and the lab efficiently.
She brushed her palm against the bushes on the sides of her pursued path, her fingers meeting the rinsed foliage, insinuating that the plants were watered not too long ago. As she ambled further, the dense flora advertised its existence as an enticing aroma of diversified scents trickled through her nostrils. She took a long whiff of the grassy flavor blended with hints of mint, lavender and other diminutive fragrances which revitalized her spirit. She smiled in gratification; the professor knew how to maintain a garden.
She sauntered ahead through the broken gravel and reached the academy's entrance. A sizable metallic gate, adorned with designs of numerous Pokémon, greeted her. It was the most lavish entrance Serena had ever perceived. She made her way through the open gateway and entered the academy's ground.
As she stepped foot on the hardened red terrain, her ears exploded from loud hollers and excited cheers from a gathered crowd, encircling the ground's center. Curious, she pushed herself to her toes and peered closer. She partially viewed a heated Pokémon battle between her friends Tierno and Calem. She knew who was winning; she didn't even need to witness the entire brawl. Calem was last year's league runner-up, while Tierno' focus was more on dance than any form of Pokémon battles. The outcome was evident.
She averted her gaze and scouted for Shauna, who she found standing in a corner with Trevor, both cheering, probably in support of Tierno. She quickly paced towards her two friends.
Shauna caught the honey-blonde approaching her, and excitedly swung her hands. Serena smiled and sped her already quick feet, reaching her friends soon after. "Hey, Trevor," she waved.
"Hello, Serena," Trevor said as he fidgeted with the camera in his hands.
"So, Trevor, why did Tierno challenge Calem?" Serena asked. She was sure he must have been the one to instigate the battle. Of her one year of acquaintance with Calem, she had never known him to challenge trainers voluntarily, but only accepted the ones thrown at him.
"That's what I want to know," Shauna said. "Trevor, you said that you'd tell once Serena came. Now speak up." She glared at the lean boy. "I've waited long enough."
"Uh… uh… the thing is…" Trevor stammered hesitantly.
"Tell fast or you'll have to face this." Shauna lifted her fist up and threatened the boy. Serena knew it was all fun and games and Shauna would never hurt a scatterbug, but it was hilarious to watch Trevor's reaction every time the brunette pretended to bully him. Shauna's apparent rage got the boy all worked up.
"No, wait. I'll talk." Trevor held his arms in defense. "They are fighting for Serena," he blurted out.
"WHAT?" Serena and Shauna exclaimed together.
"What do you mean they are fighting for me?" Serena widened her eyes in exasperation.
"Calem wanted to ask you to join him on his journey again. But this time, Tierno wanted to ask you, so he challenged Calem to a battle on the condition that the winner gets to ask you." Trevor said. His downcast expression exposed his guilt of revealing his friend's secret.
"Doesn't Tierno know that Calem is way beyond his level?" Shauna tipped her head. "Calem would wipe the floor with him without even raising a finger."
"He does, but he convinced Calem to give him a handicap. It's a two against one battle."
"Oh, I see." Shauna tapped her finger on her chin. "Hmm. That makes sense."
On hearing Trevor's account of transpired events, Serena stiffened her body, motionless like a statue. Her throat closed and her clenched fist quivered, fingernails biting into her palms. She wanted to eviscerate Tierno for coming up with such a ridiculous proposition, and Calem for foolishly complying with it. She was not a commodity. A silly battle to could not determine her choice, and neither was she interested in joining either of them. She had already promised Ash to join him, and there was no way she was reconsidering her decision.
She curled her lips together, disgusted at the boys' actions. They miserably failed to understand the feelings of a girl. Why should almost every guy she had encountered have to view a girl as a trophy to acquire? Didn't any of them realize that a lady has her own feelings and emotions too? Most importantly, a girl had her own choice and nobody, not even Arceus, owned rights over her. Both Tierno and Calem had no clue what she wanted, but just assumed she would give in to what they wished? That was the height of sheer absurdity. Was this how all males thought? She hoped Ash was not like that. No, that cannot be, he was the nicest boy she had ever come across. Not even in her wildest dreams could he view her as a material possession; that was just who he was. True, she had spent only little time and lacked a precise estimate of his character, but from the little she knew from the occasional phone calls, she was certain he was no less than a real gentleman. Wait until Ash came; he would teach these both a lesson on how to behave with a girl and then maybe, just maybe, her and Ash could go on a never-ending journey, exploring all regions. Yes, that would be nice; no, that would be the best. A small smile crept onto her face.
"Earth to Serena." Shauna waved her hand in front of Serena's face, ending her delusional thoughts.
"Huh? Ye… yes, Shauna."
"Do you like them both fighting over you?" Shauna smirked impishly.
"What?" Serena flinched. She rapidly shook her head. "No, it's not like that Shauna. In fact, you cannot be farther from the truth."
"Then why are you blushing so much?"
"No, I am not," Serena defended herself. She faced away, avoiding any eye contact with Shauna. "You know that's how my skin is."
"You can't get away with the same excuse twice in a day, Miss." Shauna pushed her face towards Serena's and wiggled her brows. "I am sure there is something else, right?" She spun her head towards Trevor. "Don't you think Serena is blushing, Trevor?"
No response.
Shauna straightened her body and sighed. "He is too engrossed in the battle to notice, but you are not escaping this time. Tell me what's the matter. You've been zoning out and blushing like crazy all morning. Is it because of that boy Ash?" She grinned playfully and nudged Serena with her elbow. "You can tell me. You know I can keep a secret. Is it because of him, huh?"
"No Shauna. I was just…"
Both girls snapped their gaze towards the battle as the referee made his announcement. Serena was nervous while Shauna was curious.
"Both Pokémon are unable to continue. The battle is declared a tie."
"Phew," Serena exhaled in relief. She wouldn't need to answer to either of the two, a predicament she preferred to avoid at all costs. Hopefully, both Tierno and Calem wouldn't ask her to join them at the same time. Fingers crossed.
"Uh, I wished someone would have won," Shauna whined, jerking her hands in a quick motion.
"Shauna!" Serena glared. "You know why they were battling, right?"
"Uh-huh," Shauna said. "Winner would get to ask you out, right?" She winked.
"A… ask me out?" Serena quailed. She did not think of it this way, but what if one of them actually did that? Both boys held some romantic feelings towards her, though they never explicitly stated it, but what if they did it today? She could not outright decline them; she was too considerate to hurt either of their feelings. Asking her to accompany them on their journey was different, but asking her on a date? "Gulp." Hopefully, that was not the case. "The battle was to…"
"Hey Serena," Tierno exclaimed, gaining the attention of the two girls. He danced in a twirl, got on his knee, and held Serena's hand. "You look beautiful today." He was about to kiss her palm but Serena recoiled, swiftly withdrawing her hand. "What's wrong, Serena?" He skewed his head.
"Nothing," she said with a poker face. Her heart declined to confront Tierno for initiating that senseless battle. He was one of her oldest classmates and a good friend, hence, she could not do that to him. She thinking about lashing out was way easier than actually doing so. Walking the talk was never her forte. Oh, how she wished she was bolder, like when she was alone with Shauna. Maybe their close friendship over the years stripped her of her inhibitions, since she never displayed her sassy shade to anybody other than Shauna. Okay, maybe a few times to her mom, but that was it. She was usually reserved with the rest of her friends.
"I'll tell you what's wrong." Shauna squeezed Tierno's ear, forcing him to wince in pain.
"Ouch, that hurts! Please stop, Shauna! Ouch!"
Shauna released her grip at Tierno's agonic cry. "You better apologize to Serena or you'll get more than a pinch on your ear," she threatened.
"But why?"
"Hello Serena," Calem said, walking towards the group. His hands were in his pockets in style.
"He… hey Calem." Serena timidly waved. This was now getting awkward for her. She had not met her friends for a few months, and now that she did, two of them were fighting over her. This was way beyond what she could handle. Agreed, she had a few good looks and maybe some decent curves, but it wasn't like she was the only female like that; there were many others too, ample, in her opinion, so why didn't they go after them and leave her in peace? Furthermore, Calem's emergence only enhanced her worries; he would surely want her to join him on his journey this time. Unlike Tierno, who had never asked her before, Calem had invited her quite a few times in the past. She had denied every request with the same lame reason of not wanting to experience the hurdles of travel, and somehow, he bought it. But now, that reason would no longer hold true, since she planned to journey with Ash this time. Despite telling Shauna that she had an explanation to give to Calem, she in fact, lacked a prudent excuse, hence was a little scared to reveal her plans to Calem. Argh, why does he even want to travel with her? Couldn't he leave her alone? Should she outright lie and hide the fact she would travel? No, Calem would see right through her since she would meet Ash anyway. Besides, Calem deserved to know the truth, at the very least.
"Can we talk for a bit, Serena?"
"Yes, Calem, tell me what is it?" She breathed in, ready to face Calem and give him that one final answer. She hoped he didn't create a scene after hearing her out.
"I wanted to…"
[Beep, beep] Serena's Holo Caster rang. "Excuse me." She pulled the device out of her bag and checked it. It was a message from Ash. Her eyes lit up as she read its contents.
—Hey Serena, I've reched Kalos and I shuld be there at the acadmy in few minutes. Hope to see you there—
"I am sorry, guys, but I can't talk right now." She excused herself and walked towards the stands, which were close to the academy's entrance.
"Serena, wait!" She heard Shauna's voice but pretended it to be lost in the myriad of rumpus around. She honestly didn't want to abandon her friends in the middle of a conversation, but what could she do? Ash was to arrive in a few minutes and she didn't want to explain her decision to Calem. Besides, Ash's message launched her into a different dimension of anxiety and had she been with her friends, they would've definitely spotted her antsy demeanor and would barrage her with canons of questions. She knew that she ultimately had to answer them anyway, but she wasn't ready to do so now, not before her anxiety gratifies. Avoiding them was the only alternative she found viable. She read the message again and chuckled to herself. "Ash surely hasn't learned to spell properly, huh? Well, at least he got my name right." She quickly typed her response to him while on her way.
—Sure Ash, I am already at the academy. Please come inside, I'll be waiting for you—
Serena cruised towards the concrete stands, which were erected for students to watch battles at the academy. She dusted the seat on the lower stand and gingerly sat on it as to not ruin her new dress. She placed her bag to her side and stole a quick glance at her friends, trying to avoid any eye contact. Unfortunately, Shauna caught her eye and flashed a sardonic wink at her. She jerked her head away, interpreting the inner message behind that gesture. She checked the time on her Holo Caster—one minute since Ash's text. "Ahh, why can't the time fly faster?" Impatience overwhelmed her. She waited for over eight years to meet Ash, but she found these last few minutes were the most laborious to elapse. She attempted to calm her stirred nerves by clutching and toying with her Holo Caster in her hand, but it wasn't too fruitful. She was meeting Ash after so long; probably even a tranquilizer wouldn't calm her elevated hype. She incessantly tapped her unrestrained feet trying to fritter time, but every strike her foot thumped, it took a million years for the next one to follow. She swiveled her head, observing the tweenagers scampering around. She would've probably relished this distraction owing to her adoration towards kids, but her pounding heart mercilessly invaded her mind, refraining her from attaining any bleak solace. Every beat of her heart enhanced her restlessness exponentially. She bit her lips and flipped her Holo Caster, checking the time again—two minutes since Ash's text. The delayed movement of the clock only frustrated her even further. She fidgeted with her long fingernails, scrapping the red glossy paint off them. Maybe this could sidetrack her jitters. Amidst her bustling turmoil, she heard a soft whisper in her head. She knew who it was.
"Psst, Serena." Her suppressed sassy subconscious spoke.
"What?" she answered to herself.
"Did you think of how you'll greet him?"
"Not really, what's there to greet him with? I'll just… you know, I'll just… phew, I don't know."
"Thought so."
"Huh? All right, if you are so smart, then tell me, how should I greet him?"
"Hug him, silly. Show him the love you've been hiding all these years."
"What? I am not doing that."
"But why? You like him, so why not? I know you want to."
"No, thank you. I may have liked him when we were kids, but I don't know how I feel now."
"Go bluff to someone else, you dimwit. I am you and you can't fool me and please, for Arceus's sake, stop lying to your own self. We both know how you feel about him."
"No, you are wrong. He is just my friend, that's all."
"ENOUGH BITCH!"
"Excuse me?"
"You heard me. Listen, I have no time to waste, and Ash is coming is a few minutes. If you want my advice, then either accept the truth or face my impudence. So, what will you choose?"
"Argh. Okay, fine! Maybe I do, but just a little. That does not mean I should go hug him the moment I see him. What would he even think of me?"
"That you are cute, or maybe even sexy."
"Very funny."
"What? Don't guys like when a girl hugs them? You should know, Calem and Tierno tried that many times with you, didn't they?"
"Yeah they did, but they were never successful."
"You don't need to tell me that, I've been there when they tried. So, back to the topic, tell me: are you going to hug Ash or not?"
"I don't know, it sounds too… clingy, maybe? No, desperate. Yes, it sounds desperate."
"Aren't you?"
"What do you mean, huh?"
"Aren't you desperate to see him?"
"Uh, maybe a little, but that holds no reason to go hug him."
"Would you want to kiss him, then?"
"Shut up!"
"Just a piece of advice. A kiss can be significantly more effective, just so you now."
"GET OUT OF MY HEAD. NOW!"
"All right, I am leaving but remember my suggestion. If not a kiss then at least a hug. Don't miss this chance. I am sure he won't mind. Bye!"
Serena breathed out in relief; fighting her own self can certainly be vexing. But was her subconscious right? Should she greet him with such affection? Well, she can't simply shake his hand and say, 'glad to see you again, Ash.' That would be lame, even for her reserved standards. But what if she hugged him and he hated getting all touchy? That would be even more disastrous. But what if he doesn't mind and she missed her only chance? Who knows when she would get such an opportunity again? Sure, they were going to travel together, but that did not mean she would get to hug him every time. He certainly would want his own space. Yes, sassy Serena was right, she wouldn't find a better possibility than this to embrace him. She will meet him after eight long years; she sure deserved one hug at the very least. Yes, she should do it.
"Hold on Serena, are you crazy? Get a hold of yourself. You know Ash is far too oblivious. He would never like that." Her dominant conscious took over.
"Maybe he is oblivious and probably doesn't even understand romance…"
"Wait, wait, wait, romance? Does that mean you actually like him?"
"Ahh, I don't know. But, somewhere, I think I do. Ever since he saved me in that summer camp, I've always had a special place for him. After all, he was my hero then."
"Well, if that's really the case then you should go ahead. What's the worst that could happen, huh?"
"Yes, I may be will." Serena wrapped her arms around herself with a giddy smile.
[BOOM] An ear-cracking explosion sounded from nearby.
Gary, Ash, and Pikachu exited the Lumiose City International Airport and strolled through the city's grand road, which was a sinless black ribbon, clean with no flecks of earthly smudges. Along their way, they successively gawked at the ornate benches and lamp-posts hostaged by the cobblestone pavements, barricading the elongated boulevard on either side. A few electronic street sweepers around were engulfing the leaf litters perished from the long band of placid trees, erected in the road's heart which divided it into two distinct lanes. They viewed the modestly sprinkled citizenry lurching in contrasting directions, most escorted by their Pokémon. The scarcity of automobile clamors stripped the neighboring serenity from any cacophonic infiltration, an unconventional yet enchanting sight to behold.
"It's peaceful, isn't it?" Ash said, devouring the sterile breeze grazing through his flesh. Unlike most cities he had been to, Lumiose was blessed with unique tranquility.
"It is." Gary spread his arms wide and took a deep breath. "It smells so clean and pure. I never thought they can maintain a city this neat. Hats off to the regional government."
"What do you think buddy, you like it?" Ash asked his partner.
"I do. Somehow it reminds me of Assumption Island, only there are people here in place of forests."
"Ha-ha, you are right," Ash said with a chuckle. "I guess we should find our way to the lab now, Serena must be waiting for me."
"You sure sound excited. Did our talk on the plane clear some of that rust from your head?" Gary smirked.
"Nothing like that Gary, she told me she would wait for me and the sooner I meet her," Ash balled his fist, "the sooner I can go for a gym battle." He punched the air.
"You'll never change," Gary muttered, inaudible to Ash.
"What talk, Ash?" Pikachu asked his trainer.
"Not…nothing serious Pikachu, just a simple talk." Ash dodged the bullet. He turned towards Gary and asked, "you know how to get to the professor's lab, don't you Gary?"
"Of course, I just need someone to point me in the right direction." Gary gave a half shrug and shoved his hand in his pocket.
"That means you don't know." Ash sighed with a slouch. "I thought you knew everything, Gare-bear."
"How do you expect me to know about a place I haven't visited yet?" Gary asked. "Would you happen to know the map of every region you visit? Oh wait," he raised his index finger. "You can't read a map," he mocked.
"He-he, guess you are right." Ash foolishly rubbed his head. "We should ask someone then." He inspected his surroundings to find any savior to help them. He found the closest to be a duo sitting on a bench, a few meters away from them. "Look, there are two people over there. We should ask them." He was about to race forward, but Gary held him from behind. "What's wrong, Gary?" he asked.
"Look closely, Ashy-boy, but not too close." Gary mischievously grinned.
Ash adhered to Gary and peeked closer towards the pair. His jaw slacked at what he witnessed. A young couple was vehemently spooning each other with no care of their surroundings. He hastily tossed his head aside and cringed. "Why would they do such stuff in public?"
"Ha-ha-ha." Gary cackled. "This is Kalos region Ash, also known as the region of love. You'll probably see such scenes a lot."
"Argh," Ash groaned. "Isn't that supposed to be private?"
"Not in this region. Anyway, let's find someone else to guide us," Gary said and scouted. He noticed a young blonde girl on the sidewalk, skipping her steps and bounding forward. "Maybe we should ask that kid. Let's go before we lose sight of her."
They sprinted towards the said girl.
"Hey!" Gary called, ceasing the girl's tracks.
"Yes mister, what can I do for you?" the girl faced them and asked. She looked to be about seven or eight years old. She had blonde hair tied into a single ponytail, held by a single clip. A yellow sling bag dangled around her shoulder, which bore a small orange Pokémon inside.
"Hey, I am Gary and this is my friend Ash, and that is his partner, Pikachu," Gary introduced themselves. "We are new to this region and I was wondering if you know the way to get to Professor Sycamore's lab."
"Your Pikachu is so cute, Ash," the girl yelled fanatically, stars sparkling in her eyes. "Can I pet him? Can I pet him? Pretty please?"
"Uh, yeah you can, as long as Pikachu doesn't mind." Ash asked his partner, "you okay with that, buddy?"
"Sure," Pikachu said and leaped into the girl's arms.
"Aww, he is so soft and cuddly," the girl exclaimed in glee as she pressed her face into Pikachu's fluffy fur. "You are the softest Pokémon I've ever touched, Pikachu." She giggled.
"Ahem, ahem," Gary cleared his throat. "Did you listen to what I said, kid?"
The girl broke her cuddle with the yellow mouse and attended to Gary. "Yes, I did Gary and yes, I know where the lab is. I am going there only now, so follow me." She advanced ahead. Pikachu slipped out of her grasp and bounced back to his trainer's shoulder. "Oh, and my name is Bonnie, and this is Dedenne, my Pokémon, actually my brother's Pokémon but he allowed me to take care of him until I am old enough to have him as my own," she said, pointing at the tiny 'mon perched in her bag who seemed to snore. "Sorry, Dedenne is always sleepy, he only wakes up when it's time to eat."
"It's nice to meet you, Bonnie," Ash said as he and Gary tailed Bonnie, following her directions. "It's all right, I know how Pokémon love to sleep. I have one like that."
"Nice to meet you too, Ash," Bonnie replied. "Are you both Pokémon trainers?"
"Yes, we are." Ash grinned.
"Uooh, so you came to challenge the Kalos league?" Bonnie asked enthusiastically. "The league here is so awesome. Last year, one of my friend's friend came in second. I don't like him so much though, but I was happy to get special seats for the final because of him." She giggled.
"Well, I am sure your friend's friend is a strong trainer and yes, I came to challenge the Kalos League, but Gary here came to work under Professor Sycamore."
"Just that Ashy-boy?" Gary waggled his brows.
Ash flinched at Gary's comment. "Ah, that and to meet with an old friend of mine."
"Who is he? Maybe I know him. I know many people in this city, almost all of them. My daddy is very famous, so he introduces me to everyone."
"It is not a he, but a she and her name is Serena Yvonne," Ash said.
Bonnie paused her walk, turned back towards Ash, and exclaimed, "what? You are Serena's friend?"
"You know her?" Gary asked.
"Obviously, I know her. She is my bestest friend and if you two are her friends, then you are now my friends too," she said. "Yay, I made two new friends today! No, three new friends including Pikachu," she cheered, springing on her toes.
"Ha-ha, we are glad to be your friends, Bonnie," Ash said. "I am sure Pikachu is happy too, isn't that right buddy?"
"Yes, I am happy to make any new friends."
Bonnie nodded with an open grin. "Does Serena know you are coming to meet her, Ash? She never told me she had foreign friends, but that's okay, I guess. I got to meet you all, anyway."
"She does, she told me to come straight to the lab."
"What? That's not possible. Serena is very lazy and doesn't wake up early, why would she tell you that?" Bonnie tilted her head. "When did she tell you that Ash?"
Ash sweat dropped. "Ah, right before we boarded the plane."
"So, you didn't tell her that you landed in Kalos?"
Gary slapped Ash's back. "Yeah, Ashy-boy, why didn't you call her after we landed?"
"I…I guess I forgot." Ash blushed sheepishly. "Wait, let me message her now." He pulled out his PokéNav and typed in a message. "Here, done!"
"That is better, this should at least wake her up now," Bonnie said.
"Is she that lazy?" Gary asked.
Bonnie shut her eyes, spread her palms out, and shook her head. "You have no idea."
"Look, she replied." Ash read the message. "She is already at the lab and wants me to come there. Maybe she isn't too lazy."
"Hmm, strange. She was never…"
"Hey what is that?" Ash pointed towards a tall, sophisticated metal tower which caught his eye. The tower's lofty height reflected the colossal vision of its maker, emulating the embodiment of human ingenuity, a marvel of a sight to witness. Ash stood still as he absorbed the magnificent spectacle.
"That… is… amazing," Gary fixed his gaze at the ravish structure.
"Gary is right Ash, it's really amazing."
"It is," Ash said, transfixed in fascination.
"That is the Prism Tower." Bonnie folded her arms and smirked. "My brother was one of the chief engineers who built it," she said rather nonchalantly.
"WHAT?" Gary, Ash, and Pikachu shrieked.
"Hmm-hm, you heard me right," Bonnie said. "My brother is bad at many things, but building machines is his specialty. You should meet him, he should be here somewhere." She whirled her gaze, searching for her brother. "He told me he had to fix something," she said, tapping her chin.
"That's so awesome. I'd love to meet him." Ash's eyes twinkled. "You heard that Gary, we can meet him!"
"I'd like to meet him, too. He must be quite talented to build such a massive tower."
"There he is!" Bonnie yelled and scampered towards a blond boy dressed in a mundane blue jumpsuit.
Ash and Gary ran after Bonnie.
"Hey, Clemont!" Bonnie waved to her brother as he was rummaging through his tool kit. He stood near a defected lamp post trying to fix it.
"Hello, Bonnie. What are you doing here? Don't you have tuition?"
"I bunked, brother dear," Bonnie grinned mischievously. "Don't tell daddy, please."
"What should I even do with you?" Clemont slammed his palm against his forehead. "Fine, I won't tell dad, but promise me you won't do it again."
"I don't want to lie to you Clemont." Bonnie shook her head.
Clemont sighed. "At least don't do it too often?"
"I'll try, but no promises." Bonnie wiggled her finger.
"So, this is your brother, Bonnie?" Ash asked as he arrived with Pikachu and Gary.
"He is," Bonnie said. "Clemont, meet my new friends Ash and Gary." She introduced the duo to her brother. "And that is Pikachu, Ash's Pokémon. Isn't he so cute?"
"Hello Ash, hello Gary." Clemont shook the duo's hands, his grip shivering. "That is one fine Pikachu you got there, Ash."
"He is. Are you all right, Clemont? You look a little nervous," Ash remarked.
"I.. I am all right. He-he, just a little tired I guess." Clemont precipitated profusely. "I am glad Bonnie made new friends."
"My brother gets nervous when he meets new people. He prefers to stay at home alone and work on his inventions," Bonnie said. "You should get out more often Clemont, otherwise how do you expect me to find you a good bride? Girls like strong and confident men." She smirked with her hands on her hips.
"Sto… stop it, Bonnie. I told you many times, I don't need your help." Clemont clenched his fist. "Anyway, how did you all meet?"
"I'll tell you, I'll tell you!" Bonnie bounced on her feet with her hand raised up, like an excited student who knew the answer to the teacher's question.
"All right, tell me, Bonnie."
"Ash here came to Kalos to meet Serena and challenge the league. Gary is here to work under Professor Sycamore."
"That's right," Gary said. "So Clemont, Bonnie told us you built the Prism Tower. How on earth did you do that, man? I mean, you look very young and that tower must have taken years to build, right?"
"I didn't exactly build it, Bonnie here exaggerates everything." Clemont fixed his large round glasses. "I was on the team of engineers and I only designed the interior electricity grid. While the rest of the team was tasked with the actual build, it didn't take too long; the total project lasted only eight months. It was completed just under a year ago."
"That's so awesome! You must be a genius to do that, Clemont!" Ash exclaimed. "Ouch!" he cried, rubbing his head where he felt a dull sting on his head. He looked ahead and noticed a blue Pokémon who used his head as a base to leap on. "What Pokémon is that?" he asked.
"Oh, that? It is the Lumiose City's famous Froakie," Bonnie said.
"Famous?" Gary creased his brow.
"You see, Froakie is one of the starter Pokémon of Kalos region. Many trainers choose this one since he was the strongest of the lot, but Froakie always abandoned the trainers and returned to the lab within a week," Clemont said. "It happened over ten times before. Therefore, the professor stopped offering him to trainers and from then on, Froakie roamed around the City helping people and Pokémon who are in need. Seeing how he helps everyone, the city nicknamed him the Blue Crusader."
"Hmm-mm," Bonnie nodded. "That's why he is famous."
"He helps people and Pokémon? That's so cool," Ash said. "I wish I can meet him once."
"If you are visiting the lab, then you probably will…"
[BOOM]
"What was that?" Gary asked as he recoiled at a loud explosion, not too far from where they stood. He peeked towards the source, which was a nearby building erupting grey clouds of smoke.
"It is coming from Professor Sycamore's laboratory," Bonnie said hastily. "We should go check it out."
All of them agreed to Bonnie's suggestion and darted towards the lab.
No sooner did the group reach the said location than, foggy fumes obscured their vision. Fine particles of soot quickly entered their lungs, burning their insides making their eyes water. A few squelched coughs reverberated from within the soupy smoke.
"Fearow," Gary covered his nose and chucked his Pokéball. "Use wing attack and clear the smoke!"
An orange bird with a prolonged beak materialized and flapped his wings swiftly, creating short bursts of fierce gusts, dissipating the accumulated pollution. The murky ambiance soon cleared out and revealed a tall, bipedal, draconian Pokémon with a weird snare-like device clamped around his neck. He cried in agony, shooting dragon pulses in rage, decimating anything he aimed at.
"Garchomp, listen! You have to calm down!" A man in a white lab coat stood before the Pokémon, struggling to calm the huge beast, but all his attempts only enraged the barbaric nature of the Pokémon even further.
"What happened, Professor?" Bonnie asked as the professor tried to control his Pokémon. "Why is Garchomp not listening to you?"
"Oh, Bonnie, Clemont." The professor recognized the siblings. "I don't know what's wrong. I just got here to begin with the initiation program, but as soon as Garchomp and I landed, someone attacked us and since then, Garchomp stopped listening to me."
"Who did that?" Ash roared in anger.
"Are you all right, Professor?" A ginger-blonde girl hurried from inside. Ash, right way recognized her to be his childhood friend Serena, but abstained from calling her out; the circumstances weren't too ideal for a reunion.
"I am all right Serena, but Garchomp doesn't look to be fine."
"Serena!" Bonnie emphatically screamed.
"Hey, Bonni…" Serena's lips parted in surprise as she caught sight of her childhood friend with Bonnie. "Ash?" she aspirated.
Ash waved his hand. "Hey, Serena…"
"Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!" A peal of loud laughter echoed as a Meowth shaped hot-air balloon surfaced into the sky.
"Prepare for trouble!"
"And make it double!"
"To protect the world from devastation."
"To unite all people within our nation."
"To denounce the evils of truth and love."
"To extend our reach to the stars above."
"Jessie."
"James."
"Team Rocket blasts off at the speed of light."
"Surrender now, or prepare to fight."
"Meowth! That's right," Meowth exclaimed, jumping right in front of the Duo.
"Wobbuffet," a blue blob-like Pokémon saluted.
"You three?" Ash snarled, recognizing his arch nemeses. Only these idiots would be capable of such a vicious act. "What do you want this time?"
"Came to steal me again?" Pikachu grunted from his trainer's shoulder.
"Do you know them, Ash?" Clemont asked. He dragged Bonnie behind him and pulled out a Pokéball in defense.
"I do, Clemont," Ash said. "They are thieves who try to steal Pokémon from trainers. They've been after Pikachu and me since the day I began my journey."
The students from the academy and a few curious citizens soon swarmed into the scene, eventually forming into an unruly crowd with their disruptive whispers and shrieks. The children especially were horrified, a few cried in fear while a few hid behind the adults.
Ash peeked towards Serena, a brunette and three other boys joined her, must be her friends. One of them called his Blastoise out and was helping to put out the fire caught on the trees and lab, while the others were on guard, ready to prevent any serious escalation.
"Hey look Jess, the twoip is here," Meowth gestured towards Ash.
"Oh, so we finally see you again, Twerp." Jessie held her waist and tucked her chin inwards. "Don't you worry twerp, we are not here for your Pikachu; we are here for that Garchomp, which can Mega Evolve." She motioned towards the Mach Pokémon. "Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!"
"We don't need Pikachu anymore. We have that Garchomp to steal." James pushed the button on a remote he had in his hand. "He is now in our control."
With the click of the button, the device around Garchomp's collar emitted several static sparks, which only boosted the pseudo-legendary's aggravation. He fired hyper beams in quick succession, seemingly unable to endure the distress brought about by the device around his neck.
"You said it would woik Jimmy," Meowth said. "What 'append now?"
"I don't know, Meowth. I guess this Garchomp is too strong for our device to control." James tried tinkering with the remote in his hand.
Jessie kicked James in his face and grunted. "Do something quick, you idiot."
"I'm… I'm trying Jess." James shuddered.
[VROOM] A defeating noise of a motorcycle drift resounded from nearby.
"What happened? I came as soon as I got the call." Officer Jenny entered.
"It's those three, officer." Gary aimed his finger at Team Rocket. "They used some device to control Garchomp."
"Jess." Meowth shivered. "Looks like we in trouble."
"James!" Jessie yelled with protruded eyes.
"Watch out!" Ash pushed Officer Jenney aside, saving her from getting hit by a dragon pulse. "You all right, officer?"
"Yes, thank you," Jenney said. She got to her feet and analyzed the situation around them. From the circumstantial evidence she witnessed, extrapolating the rest wasn't too difficult. She held her baton and pointed towards the Rocket Trio. "You three, come down right now. It's an order on behalf of the Kalos Law Enforcement."
"They won't listen to that, officer," Ash said. "Pikachu thunder…" Before he finished his command, a hyper beam from Garchomp set them flying into space.
"Team Rocket is blasting off again!" the trio screamed as they flew into oblivion.
"Wobbuffet!"
"Well, that took care of them," Bonnie deadpanned. "But how to stop Garchomp?" she asked as the dragon took off the ground.
"He is heading towards the city. If he rampages there, many people might get hurt," Gary cried in horror.
"According to my calculations, to stop Garchomp that device around his neck should be destroyed," Clemont said.
"I'll take care of that." Ash tightened his fists. He turned towards Gary. "Cover the ground and protect the people."
"Where are you going, Ash?" Clemont asked.
Ash lifted his head up and declared, "to stop Garchomp." He turned his head towards his yellow partner on his shoulder and asked, "you ready, buddy?"
"Stop me if you can!" Pikachu smirked. "I was born for such adventures."
"So am I," Froakie said out of nowhere as he leaped on to Ash's other shoulder.
"You wanna join in too?" Ash asked the blue frog, to which he nodded. "All right then. Pidgeot, I choose you," he yelled and hurled a Pokeball in the air which materialized into a huge golden shiny golden bird rather than its usual cream-colored hue. The gathered crowd instantly forgot the gravity of the situation and awed in amazement at the stunning Pokémon.
"Gary, use him," Ash said. He flung another Pokéball and materialized his Wartortle.
"Whatsup boss?" Wartortle asked. He studied his surroundings and right away realized that he wasn't called out for fun. He morphed his cool expression into a determined one. "What do you want me to do, Ash?"
"Wartortle, help Gary in putting out any fire. I am going after that Garchomp." Ash pointed towards the dragon type heading towards the city.
Wartortle saluted. "Consider it done."
"Are you sure you want to do this, young man?" Officer Jenny asked as she tapped her baton into her palm.
"I do, officer," Ash said and got on his bird Pokémon with Pikachu and Froakie perched on both his shoulders. He gave a quick glance towards Serena. "I'll meet you once I come back, Serena."
"Let's go Pidgeot." Ash took off.
"Ash, no!" Serena ran after him. Garchomp's fury and Team Rocket's unforeseen appearance terrified her beyond maintaining her coherence, restricting any form of articulation from her, but the moment Ash chose to endanger his life, she couldn't hold herself back anymore. She had to stop him from jeopardizing himself.
"Is that kid crazy?" Professor Sycamore grasped his head with his palms. "He will die trying this!" He voice was lost in the ruckus created by the horde massed around.
"Serena, stop!" Gary grasped Serena's hand before she did something regrettable.
"Leave me!" Serena jerked Gary's hand off. "Who the fuck are you to stop me?" she snapped.
"I guess you forgot, huh? Does the name Gary Oak ring any bells?"
Serena's diluted pupils, dilated at that name. "Ga… Gary?" she gasped.
"You remembered." Gary gave a weak chuckle. "Listen Serena, I know how important Ash is to you, but trust me when I tell you this." He held Serena's shoulders and stared into her eyes. "You can't stop Ash. No one can. He has been in such situations before and trust me," he paused, "Ash knows what he is doing and he will be safe."
"He will be okay, right?" Serena asked. Her body crumpled and her moistened eyes, appearing overly bright.
"As long as he has his Pokémon, he will be fine," Gary smiled. He had known Ash to handle graver situations before; this was banal compared to any of that.
"Young man, who is he and who are you?" Professor Sycamore asked, regaining his lost senses. The series of ineffable events startled him off his balanced composure.
"I am Gary Oak, Professor, and I am here for the internship," Gary said. "And that is my friend Ash Ketchum."
"Oh, so you are Professor Oak's grandson?" Gary nodded at the professor's question.
"Professor, I could talk to you all day, but right now, I have things to do," Gary hurriedly replied. He materialized his Umbreon, Blastoise, and Alakazam.
"What are you doing, Gary?" Serena asked, her hands clasped together.
"Didn't you hear Ash? We need to protect the people, evacuate them. Garchomp might destroy the buildings," Gary said. He noticed a few teenagers standing behind Serena. "Are they your friends, Serena?"
Serena nodded and quickly introduced her friends to Gary.
"Guys, I can't do this alone, so I need your cooperation," Gary said. "You think you can help me?"
Serena and her friends accepted with no hesitance; their city was in trouble, after all. The swelled commotion of the crowd slowly simmered down, all getting attentive to what Gary had to say.
"All right then, who all of you have water types with you?"
"I do!" Tierno said. He pointed towards his Blastoise, who had finished putting of the nearby fire.
"I want you to take my Blastoise along and follow Ash's Wartortle's lead. Put off any fire around the city," Gary said. "You okay with that, Blastoise?"
"Blastoise!" Gary's Blastoise nodded in affirmation.
"Now hold on." Tierno interrupted. "Why should I follow an unevolved Pokémon's lead? My Blastoise and I can lead the charge," he smirked in overconfidence.
Gary grit his teeth. "Tierno, was it?"
"Yes, that's my name."
Gary grabbed Tierno's collar, pulled him closer, and scowled. "Listen to me, you punk, this is no time to show off. Ash's Wartortle is an experienced firefighter and there is no shame in following his lead," he said. "If you think he is weak just because he is unevolved, then think again. He can make you and your Pokémon run circles around him, should he wish to do so. You understand?"
"Ye… yes." Tierno stuttered.
"Good, now go and do like I said."
"Come on Blastoise, we have a job to do." Tierno sprinted towards the city with both Blastoises behind.
"Wartortle, please take charge," Gary said.
Wartortle acknowledged Gary and put on his dark glasses on. "War Wartortle!" He raised his hand up and quickly followed Tierno.
Officer Jenny gasped, recognizing the glasses Wartortle put on. "Is he?"
"Yes, he is the same one," Gary said with a smirk. "Officer, I know I am not in charge of anything here, but would you be kind enough and control the public? Garchomp's rampage might create a pandemonium among them."
"Sure, young man. I am on it." Jenny went towards her motorcycle to get her loudspeaker.
"Now, how many of you guys have flying types on you?" Gary asked.
"I… I do." Trevor reluctantly raised his hand up, staggered by Gary's temper towards Tierno. He called his Charizard out.
"I have my Braviary." Calem materialized his flying type.
"All right, I want you guys to take my Fearow along with you and rescue any citizens stuck in buildings." Gary glanced towards the city, a few buildings already set on fire. Garchomp was definitely not holding back. "There seems to be quite a lot."
Calem and Trevor got on their respective Pokémon and flew towards the city, followed by Gary's Fearow.
"Alakazam, I want you to do the same using your teleport."
"Alakazam." The Psi Pokémon teleported to get to work.
"Clemont, I want you to send Bonnie and the kids inside and then join me after you're done."
"I'm coming with Clemont," Bonnie said in protest. She considered herself to be old enough to face such situations.
"You don't get to choose, Bonnie," Gary said with a straight face.
"I'll take care of her," Clemont interjected taking hold of Bonnie's hand, not wanting to burden Gary with any unwanted discussion. "Come on kids, let's go inside." He motioned the kids inside.
"Umbreon, you are coming with me." Gary faced Serena and Shauna. "Girls, it's your call if you want to help."
Shauna and Serena met each other's gaze and nodded together. "We'll help. Tell us what to do."
"Call your Pokémon out. We will help the citizens stuck in the streets."
"Okay, Gary." Serena concurred and called her Fennekin out while Shauna materialized her Ivyasaur.
"Let's go and save the city!" Gary punched the air and bolted towards Prism Tower with his Umbreon. Shauna and Serena quickly tailed him.
Go read the next chapter, quick.
