You put your right hand in,
You put your right hand out,
You put your right hand in,
And you shake it all about,
You do the hokey pokey
and you turn yourself around
That what it's all about.
Oh hey there, didn't notice you. Haha you probably are thinking by now I've gone completely insane. Honestly I would have to agree. Anyway, I know there was a very long wait for this chapter. I'll explain more at the bottom. For now, please enjoy this chapter. As always, I do not own Pokemon or the Hokey Pokey. So please don't sure.
Cliffhangers With Grant
Leading the group, Clemont and Charmander light the way inside the Connecting Cave. Even if there was plenty of light to guide the group through the tunnel, there was one obstacle that called for Charmander's help. "Another Zubat" Clemont stated. He, along with the rest of the group, were growing tired of the constant encounters with the Bat Pokémon. "Charmander, scare it off with Flamethrower" he instructed the fire type. Sure enough, it flew away in fear letting the group continue.
Emerging from the Connecting Cave, Clemont is relieved to finally be out of such a dark place. "So this is Muraille Coast, otherwise known as Route 8" Clemont stated. "It looks like we are on the top half with all the cliffs." Looking at his map, he sees that they are close to their next destination, Ambrette Town. Unknown to the group, Clemont was very eager to visit Ambrette Town. They are well known for their fossil research lab.
Standing close to the edge of a cliff, Ash and Pikachu take in a deep breath. "Can you smell that Pikachu, the air here is very refreshing" he asked his Pokémon.
"Pika" agreed the electric type.
Serena and Bonnie also stood close the edge of the cliff. The wind was gently blowing as they overlooked the sea. "It looks amazing, right Dedenne?" Bonnie asks.
"Nene" Dedenne agreed cheerfully.
"It sure looks a lot more beautiful in person, doesn't it Fennekin?"
"Fenn Fenn" the fire type agreed as well.
Seemingly out of thin air, a person wearing a wing suit lands not too far from the group. "Hi, I'm Chad" he introduces himself. The group introduce themselves as well to the oddly dressed person. "I'll just get straight to the point, is anyone here interested in having a sky battle with me" he asked.
Clemont has heard of sky battles before. The concept sound very interesting to him and he would like to give it a try. The only problem he faced however was the fact that he had no flying types himself. Serena too faced a similar problem. She however didn't feel strong enough to even begin battling yet so she was out of the question. "What's a sky battle?" the Kanto teen asks.
Chad looks at Ash in disbelief. The word sky battle should be self-explanatory shouldn't it? "It's when two Pokémon battle in the air" Chad briefly explained. "Only Pokémon who can fly or levitate can participate" he added. Most people don't really need any explanation to know who can and can't participate. But then again, most people don't really ask what a sky battle is either.
"You're on" Ash says accepting his challenge. "Fletchling come on out" he said releasing the Tiny Robin Pokémon. Since Charizard was strong the way he was, he decided Fletchling could really use some action.
"Crobat go" Chad called out. A Bat Pokémon appeared in the air. In that instant, Charmander had the urge to knock it out of the sky. He resembled the Zubat from the Connection Cave, except with two more wings. Clemont fortunately noticed Charmander's behavior and was able to put a stop to the fire type. The last thing he needed was to cause trouble.
"This is so cool Dedenne. We are about to witness a sky battle" Bonnie excitedly told her Pokémon. Clemont and Serena also shared Bonnie's excitement.
With the two flying types in the air, the battle could now begin. "I'll go first if you don't mind" Chad stated. "Crobat, use Confuse Ray on Fletchling" he ordered. Crobat released a small orb that flashed from bright to dark.
Knowing Confuse Ray could mean big trouble, Ash comes up with a strategy to get the first hit. "Avoid it by using Double Team" the trainer calls out. Fletchling made multiple clones of himself to trick the opponent.
Crobat didn't know which one to hit. Quickly losing his composure, Chad orders Crobat to send a Confuse Ray in every direction. Fletchling and his multiple clones were able to dodge with ease. "Does this guy even know what he is doing?" Bonnie questioned. From their view, Crobat seemed to be throwing attacks randomly hoping one would land.
Ash was confused as well. Was this some strategy Chad was using to make himself look unsure of what to do next? Either way, he would rather not find out. "Fletchling use peck" the trainer ordered. Fletchling along with all his copies flew up in the air. He planned on using the extra momentum to their advantage.
"Crobat quick, use Air Slash on each Fletchling" Chad called out in desperation. Crobat let out an Air Slash hitting every Fletchling near it. Unfortunately for Crobat, the sheer number of copies was quickly overwhelming him.
"Do it Fletchling" Ash yelled out ordering the real Fletchling to finally attack. The flying type struck the opposing flying type right in the side. Crobat came back down crash landing onto the ground.
"Crobat, no!" Chad called out. The Bat Pokémon had swirls in place of his eyes. "What, but how?" the sky trainer questioned.
The other three looked on a bit confused. They were expecting an action filled battle. Instead, they received a one-sided battle where Ash was the victor. "Talk about anti-climatic" Serena pointed out. Clemont and Bonnie agreed with Serena.
Ash walks over to Chad as he is recalling his Pokémon. The Kanto trainer extends his hand out. "Thanks for showing me what sky battles are. We should battle sometime again" the trainer explained.
The sky trainer stood up and returned the gesture. "Yeah we should. I guess this is what my dad meant by giving my Pokémon more attention" he admitted.
Ash flinched upon hearing the word 'dad.' Sure his wasn't around but he wasn't about to let that get to him again. Clemont, Bonnie, and Serena also saw their friend flinch. They only hoped things wouldn't turn out like that last time, especially Serena. She hated seeing her friend worry about something that happened a long time ago. Not wanting to see him upset, she came up with a plan to cheer him up as soon as they took a break from traveling.
"Well, I have to get going" Chad said as he jumped from the cliff towards the sea. He extended his arms and legs to expand the wing suit. He then controlled in which direction he would go. He flew off in the distance leaving the group behind.
Halfway to their next destination, the group decides to take a break. They could all use the rest. "Come on Pikachu and Fletchling, let's go train for our next gym battle" Ash says motivated by the thought of earning another badge. They stray not too far from the group. Above them however was a figure scaling the cliff side while overlooking the group. Hearing the words 'gym battle,' he listened intently hoping to uncover Ash's true intentions.
"Come on out everyone" Ash lets out the rest of his Pokémon. While Clemont and Serena were busy preparing lunch, Ash and Bonnie are off to the side to not disturb them. "As you guys know, we are closer to Cyllage City which means our gym battle is coming up. Since we know nothing about it, let's just all train our hearts out and prepare for anything that comes our way." All the Pokémon cheered. Ash always had a way of motivating people and Pokémon alike.
"Dammit not again" a voice screamed as he came crashing down right next to Ash and Bonnie.
"Are you alright Mr.?" Bonnie asked out of concern for another's well being.
"I should be" he replied. "I'm Grant by the way" he said slowly standing up. Without struggling too much, he was able to make it to his feet.
"My name is Ash" the trainer introduced himself as well. "How did you fall anyway?" Ash asked.
Grant sheepishly rubbed the back of his head embarrassed about what he was about to say next. "Well I heard the talk you had with your Pokémon. I was just so moved that I felt the need to clap. Unfortunately I forgot I was climbing the cliff side."
Bonnie couldn't help but laugh at Grant's explanation. How does anybody forget they are climbing? "I'm sorry Grant, my name is Bonnie" she spoke through her laughter. Even Dedenne found the whole situation amusing.
Ash and Grant found Bonnie's laugh to be quite contagious. It was just something about a little kid's laughter that could easily spread from person to person. They too joined Bonnie. Once they had their laugh under control, Ash explained to Grant how he plans to take down the next gym leader despite not knowing anything about it. "You know Ash, I like your spirit. You do your best to prepare for what's ahead despite not knowing anything about the future" Grant explained while praising Ash. "I'll tell you what, let's train together and I'll give you some information about the Cyllage City Gym Leader later."
This was an offer Ash couldn't refuse. Not only would he have some idea of what to expect, he will also be receiving some training from the person that personally knows the gym leader. Agreeing to Grant's terms, they immediately begin their training. In order to build up endurance, Grant, along with Ash, Bonnie, and all of Ash's Pokémon, begins running. Charizard and Fletchling however just flew above the group keeping the same pace as everyone else.
Hidden not too far from the group, Team Rocket observe while planning their next move. With all of Ash's Pokémon training, they decided it would be best if they waited until everyone was exhausted. They really didn't see Serena as a real threat and Clemont could be easily 'sidetracked.' "Check that out. Who's the brown twerp next to the main twerp and the little blonde" Jessie asked.
"I'm not sure. Whoever he is, he must have some strong Pokémon" James replied.
Feeling his stomach growling, Meowth reminds the group of their main problem. "It'd be great if we weren't so hungry." He puts his head down while holding his empty stomach.
Jessie too realizes that her hunger has caught up to her. "Ohhh, I'm so hungry, I can eat a whole buffet right now" she stated.
"Wobbuffet" the Patient Pokémon exclaimed when he heard his name.
"Huh!?" Jessie was surprised. "I said whole buffet not Wobbuffet" Jessie said as she shoved her Pokémon back into its Pokéball.
"How I envy that main twerp" James said frustrated by the fact that they have no food. "Now he is traveling with two twerps that can cook."
Their heads drop. The only thing they can do is hope they don't starve. "What are you dopes all depressed about? Da sooner we capture dat Pikachu, da sooner we can leave these twerps" Meowth said trying to motivate the other two members.
Knowing Meowth was right, like always, Jessie and James began brainstorming ideas with Meowth. They were going to capture Pikachu and there was nothing that would get in there way this time. "Hey look over there, it's a group of Bagon" Jessie pointed out. The other two turned and saw the group. Those Bagon now became a target for Team Rocket. Unknown to them however, there was also another pair after the same group of Bagon as well.
Back with Grant, Ash, Bonnie, and all the Pokémon finished their run. "That's a great way to warm up and build endurance" Grant stated. They were all panting slightly. "If you want to defeat the Cyllage City gym leader, you're going to need a lot of endurance" Grant told Ash. All the running they just did served a bigger purpose.
Feeling his stomach growl a bit, Ash decides they go back to where Clemont and Serena were. Before he continued his training, he would love to grab a bite to eat. "Hey guys, you're back just in time" Serena said as she saw Ash and Bonnie arrive with someone else.
Ash introduced the stranger to the group. "This is Grant. He is helping me train for my next gym battle" Ash explains. He felt the need to at least give Serena and Clemont a valid reason for his presence. Not having a problem with the extra person, Serena and Clemont welcomed Grant. Soon afterwards, Ash began eating food like no tomorrow.
With Ash too busy to give anymore explanations, Clemont decides to ask Grant a few questions. "If you are helping Ash train for the next gym battle, that must mean you know the gym leader. Am I right?" Clemont asked being a little suspicious of Grant's true identity.
Grant was surprised by Clemont's observations. Unlike Ash, he found Clemont to have a tendency to question many things. He didn't want to lie to Clemont, but at the same time he didn't want to reveal who he was just yet. Grant quickly came up with a excuse. "Let's just say by the end of today, everything will be revealed" he responded to Clemont's question. By giving Clemont a completely different response, it couldn't be considered lying.
Even if it wasn't the answer Clemont was hoping for, it was good enough him. Determining that Grant wasn't a threat still didn't quell the uneasy feeling Clemont felt. For some reason, he felt as if he was being watched. Not the Team Rocket stalking the group kind but more like being spied on for malicious intent. "Perhaps it is Team Rocket watching over us that makes me feel this way" Clemont tried to convince himself. Either way, knowing Team Rocket could be lurking nearby didn't help one bit. Pushing aside those thoughts as best as he could, Clemont did his best to enjoy his lunch.
"Thank you Clemont and Serena for this great lunch" Ash showed his gratitude. Grant and Bonnie also did the same. Ash leaned back showing how content he was with his meal.
"Who wants cupcakes?" Serena asked. Ash immediately stood up and grabbed a few. You would think by now everybody would have already gotten used to Ash's eating habits.
Feeling that all eyes were on him, Ash stops eating. "What?" he asks. "No matter how full you are, there is always room for desert" he stated as he resumed eating the treats. Serena watched as he happily ate away at the treats she made. She forgot why she even made them in the first place. Oh well, seeing Ash like this one enough of a reason for her.
After lunch, Ash and Grant immediately continued training. The more training they could get in during the day, the better off Ash will be for his next gym battle. "Alright Ash, there are a few things you must know if you are going to beat the Cyllage City Gym Leader" Grant told Ash. Ash paid close attention to what Grant was about to say. "The best defense against Gra-" the gym leader almost blew his cover, "I mean the gym leader is a good offense. It also is helpful to be very agile" he admitted.
Clemont quickly picked up on Grant's slip up and figured out his identity. He however decided to keep it a secret for now. Feeling more comfortable around the fellow gym leader, Clemont decides to step in and lend a hand in their training session. "The future is now thanks to science. Clemontic gear on" the inventor stated.
"Not this again" both Bonnie and Serena sighed. They knew what was coming and there was no way to stop it.
On Clemont's feet were a pair of boot-like devices with a curved piece of metal running along the back down to the ground. This elevated Clemont's height. "With this invention, you can build muscle at a relatively fast pace. All you need is body weight and the device does the rest of the work. I call it, the Muscle Mass Magnifying Machine" Clemont explained.
"What could go wrong" Bonnie sarcastically stated.
"So now you've resorted to alliteration when naming your inventions" Serena points out.
Grant was skeptical more than anything else. Looking at the small cliff next to them, he had a different training style that he preferred. Still though, he was curious about Clemont's gadget. "So how does it work?" Grant asked.
"It's simple, all you have to do is take a step forward and watch it gooooooo" he screamed as he was launched into the air. His echo was heard as he became a speck of light before completely vanishing.
Everyone watched helplessly knowing there was nothing they can do. "Wow science sure is amazing huh Pikachu" Ash admitted while breaking the silence that consumed the group.
"Is he going to be alright" Grant asks.
"Things like this normally happen" Bonnie reassured the oldest of the group. "He'll be fine so you shouldn't worry too much about it."
Seeing as how the rest really didn't show too much concern, he thought it would be best if he did the same. Continuing where they left off, again, Grant begins to explain to Ash the importance of a good offense for his next gym battle. A great way to build strength, endurance, and agility all at once is simple enough.
"Rock climbing?" both Bonnie and Serena question. To Serena, she only sees the danger in rock climbing and hopes that Ash wouldn't go through with it. With Grant beginning the climb, she knew it was just a matter of time before Ash joined.
"Ahhhhh" a voice was heard in the distance. Looking up, the group sees a speck of light that seemed to be falling from the sky. It was headed their way.
"Charizard, would you mind catching Clemont for me" Ash asked his Pokémon. The flying type did as his trainer requested. He flew up and caught the inventor. With Clemont safely in his arms, Charizard land safely laying the gym leader down instead to avoid another bounce. The last thing they wanted to do was to take Clemont home in a bucket.
"Charizard, Fletchling, return" Ash recalled his two flying types. Because of their types, they would have to problem reaching the top of the cliff. This exercise would be useless to them. "Are you three ready?" Ash asks his Pokémon. They nod showing their commitment to the training they are about to go through. "Alright, let's start" the trainer stated. Ash took the lead by following Grant's example. Slowly, foot by foot, hand by hand, they would reach the top.
Being an expert in the art of rock climbing, Grant had no trouble reach the top, especially considering that is wasn't a very big cliff. If one fell trying to climb it, the impact will be enough to cause some damage, but nothing life-threatening. Looking down, he is surprised by what he sees. Sure enough, Ash was climbing at a steady pace. But the thing he found surprising was his Pokémon. With Pikachu leading the pack of Pokémon, he sees that the electric type uses his tail to inch closer to the top. Chespin uses his vines to ensure a good grip while Froakie uses his frubbles.
Looking down to check on his Pokémon, Ash sees that they too are advancing with relatively no problems at all. Taking his attention of the climb for a measly second, Ash lost his footing and held on with both hands. Serena and Bonnie looked on horrified by the fact that Ash could fall at any minute. Reality quickly sets in as Serena mentally kicked herself for not trying to stop Ash. "Being as reckless as he is, Ash is bound to hurt himself" Serena thought to herself.
Ash struggled to find a decent place for his foot. Feeling around, he finally manages to find a place much to the relief of Serena and Bonnie. He decides to take a quick break. Hanging on by two arms can be tiring pretty quickly. At least there was no doubt that this would help in every way that Grant had described. Looking up, Ash sees Grant looking down directly at him. He was waiting at the top for Ash. Catching his breath, the trainer gives one final push in order to reach the top. Sure enough, he made it lying next to Grant's feet trying to catch the rest of his breath.
Soon afterwards, Pikachu, Chespin, and Froakie all make it to the top safely as well. Ash's two traveling companions at the bottom were relieved more than anything else. "Wow Grant, you were right. This is a great way to train your strength, endurance, and agility" Ash stated. Ash, along with his Pokémon, felt their muscles ache in ways they have never felt before. They celebrated their accomplishment. Who knew rock climbing could actually be a way of training for gym battles. The two at the bottom watching were just happy to know they all made it up safely.
Despite Ash's Pokémon climbing the rocky wall in an unconventional manor, it showed just how innovative his Pokémon were. They certainly know how to use what they have to the best of their ability. Feeling there isn't much useful tips and training methods he could give Ash, Grant decides to reveal his identity that he has been keeping from Ash. "Well Ash, I guess our training together is done. Sure it was brief, but I have no doubt you will be able to get that badge" he told the trainer. "In fact, the gym leader is…"
In the middle of Grant's explanation, an arm with a pink rubber glove on the end grabbed Pikachu. "Hey, what was that for? And who are you?" Ash yelled back angrily. He saw an air balloon rise with many Bagon dangling helplessly in a net attached to the balloon while Pikachu was placed inside a glass cube.
"Prepare for trouble beyond this cliff" Jessie started the Team Rocket motto.
"Make it double, we are teaming up with those losers, Cassidy and Biff" James added.
"How many times do I have to tell you, it's Butch" the angry Team Rocket member yelled at James. They didn't let Team Rocket finish their motto.
"It's Cassidy and Paunch" Ash stated in shock. It really wasn't a surprise to find Jessie and James constantly chasing him, but Cassidy and Paunch. Even if they were just as much of a threat as Jessie and James, Ash wondered who else was in the Kalos Region with them.
When it came to Butch's name issue, he sure had a way of hearing even the slightest mistake whenever someone else said his name. "Listen punk, it's Butch not Paunch. Do you really want your other twerpish friends to start calling me by the wrong name?" Butch figured if he could stop people from using the wrong name early on, his name issue will finally stop.
"I don't care want anyone calls you, I just want Pikachu back. And release those Bagon at once" Ash demanded. There was no way he was going to let them get away with it. By now, Grant probably figured these weren't Ash's friends.
"My my, what a twerpish demand indeed" Jessie taunted the trainer.
"Give us the rest of your Pokémon and we will leave" Cassidy added. "If not, we will force you to hand them over."
Team Rocket will never leave him alone. "Chespin use Pin Missle, Froakie you use Water Pulse" Ash ordered. The water and the grass type both aimed their attacks for the balloon.
Even the Clemont and Serena joined Ash in the fighting. "Bunnelby you use mud shot."
"Fennekin, use Ember."
"Hehe, you twerps have seen nothing yet" Meowth said. With a control in his hand, the directs one of the mechanical arms to block the incoming attacks. "Ya see, these arms are impervious to any attacks that you can dish out at us" the Scratch Cat Pokémon laughed. The other four Team Rocket members also laughed thinking victory is theirs for the first time in a while.
Grant pulls Ash aside. "Let me handle this" he told the trainer. "Let's go Onix" he called out as he released the Rock Snake Pokémon from his Pokéball. "Let's start if off with Autotomize" the gym leader ordered. Onix stood stationary as blue sparks where coming from his body.
"You think that scares us" James asked rhetorically. "Carnivine, use Bullet Seed on that Onix" he released the grass type. The Bug Catcher Pokémon turned and chewed on James' head. "Not this again Carnivine, we are in the middle of something" James said as he pulls Carnivine off. The grass type then released a barrage of seeds from his mouth.
With a grass type attack headed at Onix, Grant just stands watching the super-effective attack get closer. Everyone thought he was going to take the attack. "Onix dodge" he said at the last moment possible. Onix moved completely out of harm's way.
"Whoa that Onix is fast" Ash noticed. "How did he manage to move out of the way like that?" he asked himself. More importantly, Grant could probably take Team Rocket down himself. Either way, he wasn't going to stand by and watch as Grant did all the work. "Froakie use Bubble on the balloon" Ash ordered. The water type attack had the same effect as the last one, nothing. The mechanical arm was too well built.
"Allow me" Grant told the trainer. "Onix, Rock Throw" he sternly said. The Rock Snake Pokémon grabbed a boulder and launched it at Team Rocket's balloon. With the push of a button, Meowth revealed a drill which cut the boulder into multiple pieces. Grant was shock by how well prepared these guys were, unlike the other ones that dressed in orange suits. He was going to have to wait for the perfect opportunity to attack.
"Hehe, I'm guessing you twerps didn't listen. This balloon is impervious to any attack ya throw at it" Meowth explained. The group ignored Meowth and began attacking anyway. "Hehe, just keeping wearing yourselves out, it'll make capturing your Pokémon dat much easier" Meowth said. The other Team Rocket members agreed and actually praised Meowth on his machine.
Grant knew of another way to put a stop to Team Rocket but he would also risk the life of Pikachu and all the Bagon that Team Rocket had with them. Someone else however also had an idea. "Hey Ash, do you remember your battle with the sky trainer earlier today?" Clemont asked.
Immediately Ash catches on to Clemont's idea. "Fletchling, I choose you" the trainer said as he released his flying type once again. "I want you to get near that balloon. When I give the signal, I want you to use Double Team" the trainer explained to his Pokémon. Fletchling nodded his head and flew towards the air balloon.
Everyone in the air balloon laughed when they saw Fletchling approaching them. "Haha this is the best they have" Jessie laughs. It was hard to believe that a single little Fletchling could take them down. "Meowth you know what to do. But just to be sure, come on out Yanmega" Jessie released her flying type as well. "Be a dear and take out that annoying bird with Silver Wind" she ordered. Yanmega took aim for the flying type and launch the attack.
"Now Fletchling" Ash yelled out. The Tiny Robin Pokémon made multiple copies of himself and surrounded the air balloon. "Now aim straight for the balloon." Fletchling and his copies charged at the balloon from all directions. All of their wings began glowing white. "Is that a new move?" Ash quietly asked himself. He never remembered practicing that with Fletchling. Either way, if it would help stop Team Rocket, he wouldn't question the move.
"Can't you do anything about this Jessie? They are going to pop the balloon if you don't do something" Cassidy argued with her rival.
"Can't you see that we are working on it" she responded. She too had no clue as to how to handle this situation. "James, do something" she demanded.
Knowing their situation was dire, James did what he thought was the best thing to do at a time like this. "Carnivine, use Bullet Seed on all those Fletchling." The Bug Catcher Pokémon launched the grass type attack only to hit the copies every time.
Meanwhile, Cassidy and Butch just stood waiting to be blasted off. "I knew it was a bad idea teaming up with Jessie and her team of losers" Cassidy told no one in particular. She wonders why she even agreed to work together with Jessie in the first place.
Down with the group, it is obvious Team Rocket's team is quickly falling apart. "Now's our chance to attack" Ash yelled out recalling his Charizard. "Use Wing Attack on the net holding the Bagon and return them safely to the ground" he instructed the fire type. While Charizard flew off, he ordered Chespin to use Pin Missile on the balloon. Hopefully a few holes would make the balloon descend slowly enough so Pikachu doesn't get hurt. Speaking of which, "Fletchling use Steel Wing to break that container that Pikachu is in." Ash quickly realized that Fletchling could use Steel Wing after all.
"We're going down, do something Meowth" Jessie demanded. Whenever something went wrong, Mewoth was always the first to be blamed.
"Well what do you want me to do…" was all the Scratch Cat Pokémon was able to let out. He was struck by Fletchling's Steel Wing. The flying type then proceeded to destroy Pikachu's container. With the electric type free, they both jump out of the basket and towards the ground.
"Pika Pika" the electric type yells while free falling to the ground. Unlike Fletchling, he was unable to fly and the Tiny Robin Pokémon was not strong enough to carry him.
Ash frantically ran to where Pikachu was expected to land. He couldn't ask Charizard since he currently had a small group of Bagon on his back and he didn't want to risk his friend suffering a serious impact but sadly, it didn't seem as he would make it. Being much closer to Pikachu, it would be easier for Clemont to catch the electric type instead. "Go Aipom arm" Clemont yelled out. An arm that resembled Aipom's tail extended from Clemont's backpack. "I got you" he said catch Pikachu with his Aipom arm.
"Way to go Clemont" Ash cheered happy to know that Pikachu isn't seriously injured. Looking over, he saw that Team Rocket has crash landed. Not too happy with them at the moment, he decides it is best to blast them off before they cause more trouble. He looks over to Grant giving him a thumbs up.
"Let's seal them with Rock Tomb" Grant said aloud. Onix surrounded Team Rocket with rocks completely leaving them helpless.
"Let's go Shuckle, use Earthquake" Butch said. The Mold Pokémon shook the ground with a powerful ground type attack causing the rocks surrounding them to break into smaller pieces. It seemed as if he was one of two that managed to stay conscious through the crash.
"Use Play Rough on Onix" Cassidy commanded her Granbull. The Fairy Type attacked the Rock Snake Pokémon causing it to flinch slightly in pain. Cassidy and Butch have had enough and decided to join the battle as well.
Slightly worried over the rock type, Grant knew Onix could withstand the fairy type attack. He just had to wait for the right moment to attack. "Fennekin use Ember on Shuckle" Serena ordered.
"Withdraw Shuckle" Butch ordered in response to the Ember. Shuckle withdrew all his extremities. The Ember harmlessly dissipated as it made contact with the Shuckle. "You twerps have yet to see the awesome might of Team Rocket" Butch proudly stated.
Looking over, Bonnie could see the other fallen members of Team Rocket. Clearly they were out of the fight. "Hey Biff, Jessie, James, and Meowth are all knocked out. How do you expect to win?" Bonnie asked wondering if they were really as bad as the other three.
With a vein popping from his forehead, "listen here short stuff, the name is Butch not Biff. That James and your twerpish friend just love to torture me with that" Butch briefly explained.
Listening to Butch's explanation, Bonnie and Serena found a way to quickly exploit his name issue. Without a word, the two gave each other a knowing glance and commenced their plan. "I'm sorry Butcher, I had no idea you were sensitive about that" Bonnie taunted the Team Rocket member.
Butch grew frustrated and once again started correcting Bonnie. Serena smiled. "He fell for the bait" she told herself. "Now Fennekin, use Ember once again" she yelled. The Fire Type once again attacked only this time, the attack landed. Serena and Bonnie cheered when they saw the success of their plan.
"Oh yeah, you twerps think you are so smart huh" Butch sarcastically told the two.
"Now Bunnelby, finish off Shuckle with Mud Shot" the gym leader ordered. The Digging Pokémon hit the bug and rock type with balls of mud effectively knocking him out. "Alright!" he cheered as well knowing there was one less Team Rocket member to deal with.
Granbull just finished his attack the rock type as well. "Hit it with a Flash Cannon" Grant ordered. Onix opened his mouth and gathered energy. He released a white flash of light that was super-effective on Granbull. It blew the Fairy Pokémon back towards Cassidy.
"What!? We were defeated so quickly like Jessie and her loser team" Cassidy said in disbelief. She certainly wasn't expecting that outcome once they teamed up with Jessie and James. "Hey Buck, I think it's time to get out of here" she told her partner.
At this point, Butch couldn't take much more of people getting his name wrong. "Cassidy say it with me" he said angry at his own partner. "BUTCH" he slowly enunciated every part of his name.
Cassidy grew annoyed that Butch would be worrying over his name especially at a time like this. "Come on Butch, we are about to get blasted off and all you think about is your name!?"
"You got that right" Ash responded. He just wanted them gone so he could continue his training his next gym battle. "Pikachu, give them a good Thunderbolt."
The electric type unleaded a strong Thunderbolt sending the two crashing into their unconscious partners. The electricity from the attack hit the remnants of the air balloon causing it to explode sending all the Team Rocket members soaring into the air. Grant was impressed by the sheer force of Pikachu's attack. He had no doubt Ash would do great in his gym battle.
"As soon as we land, I'm calling Dr. Mamba and telling him this isn't working between us and the other losers" Butch stated. His communicator rang while they were blasting off.
"It's Dr. Namba" a voice yelled.
"Oh well, I guess we will have to say Jessie's usual catch phrase. Are you ready Butch?" she looked over to her partner. He nodded his head. "We're blasting off again" the two yelled as they soared out of view from the group below.
Ash sighed a breath of relief with Team Rocket finally gone. He was glad to have Pikachu back even though they usually fail in their attempts to capture him. "Great job rescuing the Bagon from Team Rocket Charizard" he complimented the Flame Pokémon. Looking down, the group of Bagon surrounded the trainer nibbling his arms. "Hahaha, you're welcome" he laughed as they rubbed there head on his leg.
Bonnie was jealous of Ash and his interactions with Bagon. "That lucky Ash, I want to play with the Bagon too!" she shouted as she ran towards the dragon type.
Clemont was a bit worried that the dragon type could be startled by Bonnie's approach. Looking over, he sees that instead, they are nuzzling her cheeks. With that worry out of the way, he watches as Grant recalls Onix back into its Pokéball. The gym leader walks over to the group. "Well guys, it's been a great day. We had plenty of training and we managed to keep ourselves entertained for a while" he explained.
Ash walked over to where Grant was with a confused look on his face. "I thought we were going to do some more training?" he asked.
With a smirk on his face, "Ash, I can see that you can handle your own training. I look forward to our battle at the Cyllage City Gym."
"Wait you mean…" was all Ash managed to say.
"It was great meeting all of you" he said as he headed back towards Cyllage City.
They all watched Grant walk off. Soon after, they all recalled their Pokémon and headed towards Ambrette Town. Along their walk, Ash did his best to remember what their training consisted of. It was as if Grant was trying to help them become more agile. Thinking back, that Autotomize could really prove to be a challenge if he didn't prepare for it. Onix could also seal off his opponents so had to worry about that too. Despite the many difficulties he would have to overcome, Ash already had who he would use in mind.
Before he knew it, they all arrived at the Pokémon Center in Ambrette Town. "Are you okay Ash? You've been quiet the whole way hear" Serena asked out of concern. If there was something bothering the trainer, she really wanted to know if she could help in any way.
"I'm just thinking of strategies I could come up with to use against Grant" he explained. Looking over, he saw Serena frown slightly. He knew exactly why she was frowning despite the fact that she tried to hide it. "But thanks for asking. It means a lot to me that you are looking out for me" he admitted to his friend hoping it would cheer her up a bit.
She gave him a smile. Serena was glad to know that Ash would also return the favor and do whatever he could to make her smile. She however would like nothing more than to express her appreciation in a greater way than just a smile but she was content…for now.
The teens leave their Pokémon with Nurse Joy for a check-up while they all head over to their shared room. "You know, I haven't even used this since Lysandre gave it to me" Ash remembered about the Holo Caster. He reached into his backpack and pulled out the rectangular device. "I wonder if I can call home with this?" he told himself. Serena, Clemont, and Bonnie all huddled around curious as to whether or not it would work. Entering his house number into the device, Ash hopes for the best as the Holo Caster rings.
"Ketchum residence, this is Delia speaking" she answers not recognizing the number. Taking a look at her screen, she is able to see Ash with his friends. "Hey sweetie. It is a surprise to receive a call from you seemingly out of nowhere. And it also looks like you aren't by the phones of the Pokémon center" she noticed.
"I'll explain later mom. But guess what? I'm guessing I can call you wherever I am" he said also being able to see his mom on the screen of the Holo Caster.
"Uh huh. So that device will be great so I can now check-up on daughter" another woman spoke from the phone.
Serena immediately recognized her. "Mom!?" she was shocked. She certainly had not expected to see her mom with Delia. "What are you doing in the Kanto Region?" she asked.
"I'm just visiting an old friend of mine" she responded. "But more importantly, what are you doing so close to Ash huh?" Grace asked with a hint of playfulness in her voice.
The two teens failed to realize that they were nearly cheek to cheek. Unintentionally, they turn towards each other face to face with one another. They have never been this close to each other. Serena immediately turns away trying to hide her blushing face. She couldn't believe just how close she was to Ash.
The Kanto trainer also faced a similar dilemma. He could feel his heart racing. Even he knew that they were a little too close for comfort. He handed the Holo Caster to Clemont as he tried to regain his composure.
The two women laughed as they watched their children's reactions. They couldn't explain it, but there was just something about being a mother that made teasing their kids so much fun. "I'm only joking Serena" she admitted. "Still though, it makes me feel much more comfortable to know there are people looking after you. Ash, Clemont, and Bonnie, please take care of Serena on your journey together."
"Don't worry we will" Clemont replied. Clearly Ash and Serena were still embarrassed by their earlier slip up.
"Believe me when I say this, I'll make sure they stay arms length apart" the small blonde added. She too wanted to tease the two a bit.
The two women only laughed at Bonnie's comment. "Well it was nice seeing you again Ash" Delia started. "But if you don't mind, Grace and I have a lot of catching up to do so I apologize for cutting this call short" Delia finished.
Ash simply waved goodbye hoping to avoid a similar situation. The call ended and he put the Holo Caster Lysandre had given him. "At least we know it works" he told no one in particular. Feeling his stomach growl slightly, he completely forgot about the embarrassing situation he was just in. "Let's go have some dinner" he told the group as he left for the cafeteria.
At the end of Route 9, Team Rocket finds shelter within a cave. "Hey losers, can any of you tell us exactly where we are?" Cassidy asked annoyed by the fact that they were so easily defeated by some mere trainers.
Both Meowth and James were trying to pinpoint their location using a regular map. "Hmm, if I am right, judging by where we landed after we blasted off" James stated and he retraced their steps. "We should be in a place known as Glittering Cave" he announced.
Observing their surroundings, it was obvious how the cave received its name. The ceiling was littered with crystals that illuminated the path ahead. "You don't say" Butch sarcastically adds.
The group venture further into the cave seeking some sort of shelter for the night completely unaware of other people's presence. "Lysandre was right. Ash would lead us to Team Rocket" Dr. Xerosic told the grunts he was with.
"Sir, from the information we just received, Ash and his friends are currently in Ambrette Town. We were able to track down that Holo Caster back to the Pokémon center. But it seems he still hasn't been able to achieve Mega Evolution yet" the grunt informed the scientist. "Also if it helps, we've just discovered he lives in Pallet town in the Kanto Region."
"Excellent work" he said. The scientist knew this information could one day be of great use. Dr. Xerosic released one of his Pokémon from its Pokéball. "Let's find what we are looking for. Malamar can deal with Team Rocket himself" the scientist stated. "I want you to bring them to me. Let's see what kind of information we can get out of these petty criminals" he instructed the Overturning Pokémon.
"Mala Mala"
So I have a perfectly good explanation for why the long update. Like someone said, I was asleep, hence the name Sleepy16. But there was a reason for that. I broke my arm and a leg on mother's day. I know it was the day I said I would update but I really couldn't since I was in the hospital. That and I had to rewrite this chapter because I didn't like the way it turned out the first time I wrote it. Sure this could be better, but at least I am satisfied with how it turned out. For those that are curious as to how I broke my arm and leg, just PM me and I'll be glad to let you know. I'd rather not say how I broke them in the author's notes for reasons that even I don't know why.
Moving on, the Mega-Evolution Act 2 has finally been announced! Even if they don't have a specific date, it's nice to know it will be coming in the near future. And to those that are worrying about me having Ash use Charizard in the gym battle, don't worry. I wasn't even planning on using him much after the next chapter. At least until I get to Mega-Evolutions which could be a while, or not thanks to these broken bones. I realize there are still many questions left unanswered but I will try my best to answer every single one of them. And one more thing, can some of you just provide me with any names that I could use for the grunts in the next chapter.
Next chapter: Team Rocket vs. Team Flare, Round 1
Yes you've guessed it. It is the Malamar episode remake. All I'm going to say is someone will be returning and the chapter will also focus on one person in particular from Ash's group. As always, thanks for the support and patience. Having readers like you sure makes writing worthwhile.
Laterz