Pokemon Loud Version - Kanto

by SilverNugget

No Such Luck AU. After being accused by Lynn of ruining her championship softball game, Lincoln's family plans to send him away to live with his Aunt Ruth until the whole 'bad luck' mess blows over. However, a suggestion by Lisa leads to a different destination that will change Lincoln's life forever. New 'M' Rating due to language & content within the story. Cover by JaviSuzumiya.

25. Chapter 25 - The Squirtle Squad

Disclaimer: I do not own Pokemon or the Loud House. Those properties belong to Nintendo/Game Freak and (regardless of what happened to him) Chris Savino/Nickelodeon respectively.

Note: This story will be based primarily on the anime with aspects of the games, the Adventures manga and the Electric Tales manga mixed in. Also, for the sake of convenience, I will be using the following fonts for these particular parts of the story:

Translated Pokemon Speech

Pokedex Entries/Computerized Voices/Flashbacks

-=O=-

-Town Near Route 25 (10:00 AM)-

As he, Misty and Brock entered a small town located near Route 25, Lincoln looks around and asks "Hey Misty, is there a gym in this town by any chance? While I'd like for us to continue on our way to Cerulean Cape, I'm certainly not going to pass up the chance for another badge if we come across another gym.."

"Not that I know of. The next gym you're looking for is in Vermilion City." replied Misty, shaking her head. "We won't be getting there in a matter of days, though - it'll probably take us another week or so to get there."

Eyes widening in surprise, Lincoln asks "It's that far away from here?"

"Well, let's see - you'd have to go back through Routes 24 and 25, through Cerulean City and then through Route 5." said Misty as she ticked off each location with her fingers. "After that, you'd have to go through the Underground Path to get to Route 6..."

Taking out his map and looking it over, Lincoln replies "Wait, why can't we go through Saffron City? That'll lead us straight towards Vermilion without needing to go through the Underground Path."

"Not happening. Apparently Saffron City's been going through some kind of lockdown or something over the past couple of days and nobody can get in or out." stated Brock, crossing his arms. "Which is a bit of a shame considering that there's supposed to be a gym that you'd be able to challenge there as well."

Shuddering slightly, he adds "Though considering who runs it, I'd suggest saving that one for later. Much later."

"Agreed. In any case, until they get whatever's causing the problem settled, Saffron's out of the question for the time being." answered Misty firmly before deciding to continue her explanation. "Anyway, as I was saying - after we go through the Underground Path, we still have Route 6 to get through before we reach Vermilion City."

Giving Lincoln a look, she adds "So yes, it is that far away from here."

"Wow. Just...wow." muttered the white-haired boy before a wince appeared on his face. "...This is going to be regular for us, isn't it - having to travel absurdly long distances like that to reach our next destination?"

Nodding, Brock answers "Yep, so suck it up and deal with it. We're Trainers - traveling absurdly long distances is the norm when it comes to us." before draping an arm over Lincoln's slumped shoulders. "Besides, at least you're not having to go through it alone - we're here with you, too."

"Yeah, that's true." replied Lincoln with a nod before walking off. As he started heading towards the town's Pokemon Center, he mutters "...At least I'll be getting plenty of exercise..."

As he started to head towards the entrance, he suddenly felt something bump into him from behind, followed by the sound of someone running off. Turning to see who was responsible, he saw what appeared to be a Squirtle disappearing around a nearby corner.

Eyebrow raised in surprise, Lincoln asked "...Was that a Squirtle?", only for Pikachu to shrug in response.

"Looks like it. Probably belongs to someone living here." replied the Electric-Type before pointing at the entrance. "Let's hurry up and go inside already - I'm in the mood for some ketchup and you're buying."

"You and your ketchup..." snorted Lincoln in amusement before going through the Center's doors, unaware that his Trainer Card was no longer inside his pocket.

-=O=-

(AN: For the sake of convenience, all five Squirtles will be referred to as males.)

Meanwhile, a lone Squirtle that was wearing a pair of Kamina-style sunglasses had ducked into a nearby alleyway where four other Squirtle - all wearing sunglasses with rounded frames - were waiting for him.

Upon seeing the other Squirtle enter the alleyway, one of the four greeted him with a smirk and says "Welcome back, boss. You manage to find any suckers today?"

"Oh yeah. Check this out, boys." replied the other Squirtle with a smirk of his own before showing off what he had taken from Lincoln's pocket - his Trainer Card. "I swiped this off of some white-haired chump as he was goin' into the Pokemon Center. Man, I wish I could see the look on his face when he finds out it's gone."

"Nice one, boss! But uh...what is it?" asked one of the Squirtle, scratching his head.

"It's a Trainer Card, you shellbrain. I don't know how it works exactly, but Trainers use 'em to buy things." replied the other Squirtle before he held up the Card as his smirk grew. "...Which means any cash that sucker had on him is ours now."

At this, the other Tiny Turtle Pokemon cheered while the now-apparent leader adjusted his sunglasses in a cocky manner.

"Yeah, yeah...I know I'm great. Now then, let's go..." replied the leader proudly, only for his good mood to quickly disappear upon hearing a voice coming from nearby.

"...They've got to be in here somewhere, Growlithe - we've been getting a lot of reports that they've been heading into this alleyway a lot recently and I know you can smell 'em. We're going to catch those little shits today, I'm sure of it."

Eyes widening behind his shades, the leader says "Aw crap, it's the fuzz! Break for it, boys!", causing the other Squirtles to panic before running out of the alleyway as the sound of footsteps get gradually closer.

"They're running for it! Get 'em, Growlithe!"

Suddenly, from within the darkness of the alleyway, an orange-colored canine-like Pokemon leaps out and spews a stream of fire at the five Water-Type, causing them to hop around while trying to avoid the flames.

"Stupid dog! Go away!" snarled the leader before he and the rest of his gang fire jets of water at the canine-like Pokemon, causing it to let out a howl of pain as it crashes into the ground, clearly knocked out from the overwhelming assault. "Alright, now let's get outta..."

"I've got you now!" shouted the female voice before the owner, Officer Jenny, popped out of the shadows, reaching for the five Water-Types. "You're not getting away this time!"

"Oh yes we are, sweetcheeks. Open fire!" replied the leader before pointing at the female officer, prompting the other four Tiny Turtle Pokemon spray her with a blast of water as well, sending her flying into a nearby pile of garbage. "Now stay in the garbage where you belong - we're outta here. But before we go..."

In perfect synchronization with each other, the five cup their groins and flip her the bird (or the closest thing they could get to it, anyway) before running off, laughing.

"Damn it! I almost had them!" growled the female officer furiously as she started brushing garbage off of herself. Once she was confident that she had gotten rid of it all, she walks over to her Pokemon to see if it was alright. "Oh, poor Growlithe...you'll be alright..."

Turning to face where the five Tiny Turtle Pokemon were standing before they ran off, she growls "I'll catch those little bastards if it's the last thing I do." before picking up the still-unconscious Growlithe in order to bring it to the Pokemon Center.

-=O=-

-Pokemon Center - PokeMart (10:15 AM)-

Nodding in satisfaction as he looked over the items sitting on the counter - five Pokeballs, three Potions and a bottle of ketchup - Lincoln gives the clerk a smile and says "I'll take all of this, please."

"Of course, sir. That'll be 2200 Pokedollars, please."

"Right, hold on a..." started Lincoln as he reached into his pocket, only for his eyes to widen in shock as he felt nothing but lint inside of it. "What the heck? Where'd my Trainer Card go? I know it was right here when I came into town earlier today..."

As he started searching his other pockets, the clerk asks "Sir? Is something wrong?"

"No, nothing's wrong! I just need to find..." started Lincoln before he suddenly recalled something that had happened before he went into the Pokemon Center...

-Flashback-

As he started to head towards the entrance, he suddenly felt something bump into him from behind, followed by the sound of someone running off. Turning to see who was responsible, he saw what appeared to be a Squirtle disappearing around a nearby corner.

-Flashback End-

"Oh, you've got to be kidding me...I got pickpocketed by a Squirtle?!" cried out Lincoln in dismay upon realizing what had happened to him.

"So...one of those little bastards hit you too, huh?" asked the clerk as she crossed her arms, prompting Lincoln and Pikachu to give her an odd look. "There's a gang of wild Squirtle running around that have been causing all sorts of trouble lately - thievery, vandalism, harassment...I've even seen a couple of them littering and jaywalking on occasion. Little shits."

"And now one of them has my card. Great." grumbled Lincoln before giving Pikachu an apologetic look. "Sorry, pal - no ketchup for you until we get that card back."

"...No ketchup?" repeated the Mouse Pokemon in disappointment, with the white-haired boy nodding in confirmation. "...I'm going to fry that turtle when we find it again. Nobody gets between me and my ketchup - nobody."

Tapping Lincoln's shoulder to get his attention, the clerk says "You can still buy these items, sir. Do you have any on-hand cash available?" only for Lincoln to shake his head in response.

"Sorry, all of my money's in my bank account. Aside from that, I'm flat-broke."

"Not exactly. What about that Nugget that prick Gary gave you for beating him a few days ago?"

Realizing where Pikachu was going with his suggestion, Lincoln takes out the Nugget and places it on the counter, asking "How much can I get for something like this? I seem to recall that I can sell things to the shops around here."

"A Nugget, huh? Let's see here..." replied the clerk before picking it up and looking it over. After finding it to be satisfactory, she says "I can give you these items and 800 Pokedollars for it."

"All this and 800 Pokedollars? Better than nothing, I guess."

"Then we have a deal. Pleasure doing business with you, sir."

Scooping up the items and placing them into his bag, Lincoln sighs and says "Well, there goes my Nugget." before turning to walk back to where the others were waiting for him. "C'mon Pikachu, we need to let Brock and Misty know what happened."

Upon reaching the couch where the two older Trainers were seated, he says "Uh...hey, you two. I'm finished with my shopping."

"About time. So are we ready to go? If we leave now, we can make it to Cerulean Cape before the sun sets." said Misty, only for Lincoln to shake his head. "What? You don't want to go after all?"

"It's not that. We can't leave this town - not yet. There's something I absolutely need to do first before we go."

Wondering what this 'something' was, Brock asks "Well, what is it? If it's that important, we can help you get it done faster so we can leave."

Scratching the back of his head, Lincoln says "Well..." before starting his explanation on what happened, unaware that he had caught the attention of one Officer Jenny, who was at the front counter in order to pick up her Growlithe's Pokeball.

Once he had finished his explanation five minutes later, Misty sighs in annoyance and asks "So let me see if I've got this right - you think some Squirtle living here nicked your Trainer Card and ran off with it?"

"I don't think it did, Misty I know it did. I'm certain of it." retorted Lincoln, arms crossed.

"Sounds a bit outlandish if you ask me." commented Brock skeptically. "Are you sure that it was stolen? For all we know, you could've just accidentally dropped it somewhere."

"Is that right? Because from what I'm hearing, it doesn't sound that outlandish at all." commented a female voice from nearby, causing the three to face the owner of the voice - Officer Jenny. Giving Lincoln a knowing look, she adds "So...you believe that a Squirtle had stolen your Trainer Card from you, is that correct?"

Before Lincoln could give her an answer, Brock immediately runs over, grabs one of her hands and kneels in front of her before saying "I believe that something has be stolen something from me as well and by you, no less - my heart!"

After staring blankly at the teenager for a few seconds, Jenny pulls her hand away and turns her attention back to Lincoln before asking "As I was saying...you believe that a Squirtle had stolen your Trainer Card, right?"

While Brock started sulking at the fact the teal-haired officer had chosen to ignore him in favor of the white-haired boy, Lincoln answers "That's right - when I was heading into the Pokemon Center earlier, I felt someone bumping into me before running off. A few seconds after that, I saw what looked like a Squirtle disappearing around a nearby corner."

"Yeah, that definitely sounds like a pickpocketing to me." replied Jenny with a nod before an idea formed in her mind. "Speaking of that Squirtle, I've been after him and the rest of his gang for some time now - little bastards are always causing trouble around here."

"Yeah, the clerk at the PokeMart mentioned that they've been causing problems lately. I was even told that I wasn't the only person they stole from this week."

"Which is why I'd like to propose an idea to you, kid - you and your friends help me bust those Squirtles and in return, I'll help you get your Trainer Card back. It's a win-win situation for both of us."

After taking a few seconds to think over Jenny's offer, Lincoln nods and says "Alright, but on one condition."

"And that condition is...?"

"The clerk at the PokeMart mentioned that they were wild Pokemon - I want to capture at least one of them, if that's alright with you."

"That's all? You just want to catch one?"

"Well...yeah. I know you want to nab them yourself, but I'd really like to have a Squirtle on my team."

"Well, why didn't you say so earlier? Of course you can catch one!" replied Jenny with a grin upon hearing Lincoln's proposition. "In fact, catch them all if you can - the less of those little shits I have to deal with in this town, the better!"

"Hey, hold up a minute - I want to catch one of those Squirtle, too." commented Misty as she butted into the conversation. "After all, they're Water-Types and I've always wanted to have a Blastoise on my team."

"Alright, so that's one for both Misty and myself." said Lincoln before glancing at Brock, who was still sulking. "You want in on this, Brock?"

Still sulking, Brock murmurs "...No, I'm good..."

Turning his attention back to Jenny, Lincoln says "Okay Officer, you've got yourself a deal - we'll help you out with your Squirtle problem." before he and the teal-haired woman shook hands, sealing the agreement they had made with each other. "So how many of them are there? All I know is that there's more than just one out there."

"There's five of them in total. You can easily recognize one of those troublemakers by the sunglasses they're always wearing." answered Jenny before taking a picture out of her pocket to show to him. Pointing at a Squirtle that was wearing a pair of uniquely-shaped sunglasses, she adds "And that one's the leader - you can tell because his sunglasses look a lot different than the others do."

Taking the picture and looking at it, Lincoln absently comments "Huh...looks like a pair of Kamina-style shades to me."

Giving Lincoln a confused look, Misty asks "Kamina what now?"

"It's a reference to an anime I've seen before. Don't worry about it." replied Lincoln dismissively before giving the picture another look. "Well if that one's the leader, he'll be the one I'll be aiming to capture. And with him captured, the rest of his little gang will quickly fall soon after that."

"So we're aiming to cut the head off of the snake, huh?" surmised Jenny thoughtfully before a smirk appeared on her face. "Solid plan there, kiddo. Real solid."

"And why should you get to catch the leader, huh?" asked Misty, eyebrow raised. "In case you've forgotten, I'm the Water-Type specialist here - if anyone should be catching the leader, it should be me."

"Because it was MY Trainer Card that got us into this arrangement with Officer Jenny in the first place, Misty. That's why." retorted Lincoln with an annoyed look on his face. "I'm catching the leader - end of discussion."

"...Fine, whatever."

"Glad we're in agreement. Now then, how are we going to track them down?"

"You just leave tracking them down to my partner - he's practically got the smell of a Squirtle memorized." said Jenny before taking a Pokeball out of her pocket and throwing it. "Come on out, Growlithe!"

Upon seeing the orange-colored Pokemon for himself, Lincoln thought 'Wow, now that's one cool-looking Pokemon. What is it?' before taking out his Pokedex to find out more about it.

'Growlithe, the Puppy Pokemon. Growlithe has a superb sense of smell. Once it smells anything, this Pokémon won't forget the scent, no matter what. It uses its advanced olfactory sense to determine the emotions of other living things.'

Noticing the impressed look on the boy's face, Jenny asks "You like my partner, huh? He's been a trusted companion of mine ever since I've joined the force." as she pats Growlithe's head. "And that means he wants to catch those pesky Squirtle just like I do. Isn't that right, boy?"

"You're damn right I do! Little bastards thinking they can spray me with water like that...I'm going to get them back, just you wait."

'Sounds like Growlithe takes after his Trainer pretty well...' thought Lincoln as he put his Pokedex away. "So what's the plan? Should we split up and search the town?"

"Good idea - we'll cover more ground that way." answered Jenny with a nod, only for Brock to quickly grab her hand, surprising her.

"And since I'm the oldest out of all of us and the most experienced, I'll go with Officer Jenny. After all, I'm certain that a gym leader like myself would be of great use to her."

Pointing at Misty, Lincoln says "...But Misty's both a gym leader and a Water-Type specialist. I think she'd be a better fit."

Before Brock could object to Lincoln's statement, Misty says "Nah, let's throw him a bone and let him go with her." with a shake of her head. "Besides, I'll need that Pokedex of yours so I'll know which Squirtle I want to catch."

"Alright then, you're with me. Just remember that I already called dibs on the leader." said Lincoln as Jenny and Brock left the Pokemon Center in order to start their search.

"Yeah yeah, I know..." replied the redhead, rolling her eyes.

"Glad to hear it. Okay, it's time to put 'Operation Find Those Squirtle And Catch Them So I Can Get My Card Back And Also Think Of A Shorter Name For This Operation' into action - let's go!"

Upon seeing Pikachu and Misty staring at him awkwardly, he grimaces and mutters "...I really need to stop coming up with such stupid operation names..."

Chuckling in amusement, Misty answers "Yeah, you do. Now come on, let's get going."

As the three started to leave, Pikachu asks "You think those two will be alright with each other? You know how Brock can be at times when it comes to women..."

"I'm sure that they'll be fine."

-=O=-

-With Jenny & Brock (10:25 AM)-

"Alright boy, you know what to do - sniff one of those Squirtle out and find him." said Jenny firmly, prompting Growlithe to start sniffing around for any hint of the Water-Type's scent.

While the Puppy Pokemon was trying to track down one of the Squirtle, Brock asks "So, Officer...are you free this evening by any chance?"

"Is this really the time to be asking me about something like that, young man? We've got more important matters to worry about."

"Is there anything more important than love?"

"Your friend's trust, perhaps? He is counting on us to help him get his card back and we can't work on that if you're standing here flirting with me." replied Jenny with a disapproving frown. "Besides, I'm not interested."

Hearing this, Brock starts sulking for the second time that day, muttering "...Rejected again..."

"...I'm starting to think I should've gone with one of the other two instead..." grumbled Jenny under her breath before noticing that Growlithe had suddenly perked up. "Hm? You smell something, boy?"

"Yeah, I do. Kinda smells like..." mumbled the Fire-Type before a feral grin appeared on his face. "...Squirtle. About a block away from here."

Nudging Brock with her foot, Jenny says "Hey, I think Growlithe's managed to track one of them down!", causing him to get back to his feet. Turning her attention back to the orange-colored Pokemon, she orders "Lead us to him, boy - the sooner we find him, the sooner we can start catching him and his friends."

"Got it! Follow me!"

"Do you really think he's managed to sniff one out, Officer?" asked Brock as he and Jenny ran after Growlithe, who started charging towards the location of the scent.

"His nose has never been wrong before. I think he's managed to find one of them."

After a five minute run, the three eventually arrive at a large building that was next to a street corner. Standing in front of the building were two Squirtles - one was crouched down low while the the other was standing on top of his shell with a can of spray paint. After chuckling mischievously, the topmost one started to write an obscene-looking message on the building using the paint.

"Look, there's a couple of the little bastards over there." commented Jenny before the bright yellow paint that was starting to appear on the building. "Damn it, they're tagging on that building again. We just cleaned a mess like that up yesterday."

Eyebrows raised, Brock says "Huh...I never knew that a Squirtle was able to use a can of spray paint. Or the fact he actually knows how to use it to form actual words."

"Seriously? You're impressed that he's actually committing vandalism!?"

"...You have to admit that something like this isn't something you see often."

"For you, maybe. I have to see that kind of shit everyday." grumbled Jenny before turning to face Growlithe, who was baring his teeth as he waited for the order to strike. "Growlithe?"

"Yeah?"

"Get them."

"With pleasure." growled the Fire-Type before running towards the two Tiny Turtle Pokemon, startling it.

"Oh shit, it's the fuzz! I'm outta here!" exclaimed the crouching Squirtle before attempting to run away, causing his friend to land on his head, knocking him out.

While Growlithe started to chase after the other Squirtle while spitting fire at his feet, Jenny gives Brock another annoyed look and asks "Are you just going to stand there? Send something out to help Growlithe before that troublemaker gets away!"

"R-Right..." stammered Brock before taking a Pokeball off of his belt and throwing it. "C'mon out, Geodude!"

Upon materializing, the Rock-Type says "Yo. You need something, boss?" before standing by, awaiting his Trainer's orders.

Pointing at Squirtle as he continued to try and dodge the flames Growlithe was spitting at him, Brock says "Use Rock Tomb to slow that Squirtle down!"

"You got it, boss. One Rock Tomb coming right up." replied Geodude before punching the ground hard, creating four large rocks that he immediately hurled at the Tiny Turtle Pokemon, who had remembered at that point he was a Water-Type Pokemon and used Water Gun in order to blast Growlithe, warding him away for the time being.

Pulling down one of his eyelids to taunt the Fire-Type, the Squirtle says "Hah! See ya later, sucker!" before noticing the large rocks flying towards him. "...Uh-oh."

Before he could move out of the way, the rocks collide with his body, pinning him down and holding him in place.

"Nice job on pinning him down, Geodude. Good going." complimented Brock, causing the Rock Pokemon to beam at the praise his Trainer was giving him. Turning his attention to Jenny, he adds "He won't be going anywhere. This is the best chance you're going to get at the moment to catch him."

Hearing this, a vindictive smile appeared on Jenny's face as she walked over to the restrained Water-Type and knelt down in order to look him in the eyes.

"Well well well...remember what I said earlier about how I was going to catch you one of these days? Well, it looks like today's that day."

"Fuck you, copper. You may be able to catch me and that idiot over there, but you'll never catch the others!"

"Whatever. So any last words before I catch you?" asked Jenny with a smirk as she stood up and took a Pokeball out of her pocket.

"I hope you and your mutt get trampled by a herd of Rhydon."

Though she had no idea what it just said to her, Jenny had a feeling that it was nothing pleasant.

Flipping it the bird, she says "Well, fuck you too." before throwing the Pokeball at the Water-Type's face, causing it to let out a string of curses as the ball pulled him inside. After a few seconds, the Pokeball goes still, signalling a successful capture.

After doing the same with the other Squirtle (who was still unconscious from landing on his head), the teal-haired woman grinned and said "Two down, three to go." before giving Brock an appreciative nod. "Good job on having your Geodude pin him down, Brock. He probably would've escaped if you hadn't been here."

"Glad to be of assistance, Officer Jenny." replied Brock before he plastered a charming smile on his face. "So now that we've gotten this out of the way..."

Before Brock could finish, Growlithe barked out "Hey, I've got the scent of another one - it's about two blocks away!" before running off in order to go find the source of the smell.

"Sorry to have to cut you off there, but it sounds like Growlithe's found another one. Let's go find it." said Jenny before running off after Growlithe, leaving Brock and Geodude behind.

After watching the two run off, Brock mutters "...Damn it." before recalling Geodude back into his Pokeball and following after them.

-=O=-

-With Lincoln & Misty (10:40 AM)-

As he, Misty and Pikachu continued on their way through the town while looking for any sign of the Squirtle Squad, Lincoln remarks "No sign of any Squirtles so far. You think they're hiding somewhere in town?""

"Probably. If I was being pursued by Officer Jenny, I'd be doing something like that." replied Misty with a shrug. After a few seconds of silence, she asks "...Lincoln? Can I ask you something?"

"Yeah?"

"What do you think of me? You know, as a person?"

"Well, I can safely say that despite the fact you get on my nerves on occasion, you and Brock are among the few people aside from my family and close friends that I trust." replied Lincoln thoughtfully. "I also know that you've certainly proven in battle why you're the Cerulean City gym leader."

"Anything else?" asked Misty hopefully.

"Well..." started Lincoln, only to see what looked like a Squirtle in the distance, thrusting his pelvis towards a young woman while speaking to her. "Hey, check it out - there's a Squirtle over there!"

'Damn it. So close and yet so far away...' thought Misty bitterly as the Squirtle continued to speak to the woman in what sounded like a suggestive tone.

"C'mon baby, it's the smoothest ride in town. Whaddya say?" asked the Water-Type, only for the woman to huff indignantly before storming off. Giving her a dismissive wave, he says "Aw, who needs ya? You're probably dried out down there anyway."

Giving the turtle-like Pokemon a curious look, Misty asks "Hey, can you use your Pokedex and see how strong it is?", prompting Lincoln to give her a nod before taking out the red-colored device and pointing it at the Squirtle.

'Squirtle, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon. Squirtle's shell is not merely used for protection. The shell's rounded shape and the grooves on its surface help minimize resistance in water, enabling this Pokémon to swim at high speeds. This male Squirtle is Level 12 and knows the moves Withdraw, Water Gun, Tackle and Mirror Coat.'

"That one knows an egg move? Awesome!" cheered Misty while Lincoln looked at her in confusion.

"Egg Move? What's that?"

'An 'Egg Move' is a technique that a Pokemon can inherit from one of it's parents upon hatching.' stated Dexter, answering his question. 'All Pokemon have an Egg Move or two that they're capable of using. And yes, before you ask, this does include the Pokemon you've captured as well.'

"My Pokemon have them too, huh? I might have to look into that one of these days..." mused Lincoln thoughtfully before giving Misty a questioning look. "You want to catch this one, I take it?"

"Oh, definitely - Mirror Coat sounds like an awesome move to have around." replied Misty with a smile before approaching the Squirtle in order to challenge it.

Upon seeing Misty walking up to him, the Squirtle takes off his sunglasses and asks "Well well well...what do we have here? Who's this fine-looking hottie?" before giving the redhead what he thought was a charming-looking smirk. "So what brings you here, sweet cheeks?"

Hearing what the Water-Type had said, Lincoln comments "Misty? I'm not sure, but I think he's trying to hit on you."

Bewildered, Misty exclaimed "He's what!?" before quickly turning back to Squirtle and shaking her head. "No, absolutely not! Officer Jenny wants me to capture you and that's exactly what I'm here for!"

"Oh, you mean the hot police chick, right? Figures that she'd hire actual Trainers to come and deal with us since she sucks at her job." commented the Squirtle with a shrug before giving Misty a confident smirk. "But it's not like you're going to catch me anyway - I'm the boss' right-hand 'mon. You're not going to have an easy time against someone like me."

"Looks like you picked the right one to challenge, Misty - he claims to be the leader's second-in-command."

"Lucky me." replied the redhead with a smirk before turning her attention back to the Water-Type. "Enjoy this last bit of freedom while you still can - once I capture you, you're going to be a full-time member of my team."

"So that's how it's going to be, huh? Alright then." replied the Squirtle before putting his sunglasses back on and giving her a smirk. "Let's do this."

"He's accepted your challenge, Misty." stated Lincoln upon hearing what the Tiny Turtle Pokemon had to say. "Good luck."

"Thanks." answered Misty as she took Poliwhirl's Pokeball off of her belt and threw it. "Come on out, Poliwhirl!"

While the Tadpole Pokemon started to materialize in front of Misty, Squirtle glanced at Misty for a brief moment, thinking 'Man, what I wouldn't give to get the chance to hang around with a chick like that. It's a shame I can't just let that Poliwhirl of hers win. Unless...'

Suddenly, his eyes lit up as an idea started to form in his mind - one that would inevitably change his life forever.

'...Unless I can see about working out a deal with him - one that'll help these guys out with busting the others while making sure I'm in the clear. Always felt that someone was going to catch us one of these days, anyway.' thought the sunglasses-wearing Pokemon before turning to face Poliwhirl, who looked ready for battle. 'Alright, now that I've got my plan in mind, it's time to start putting it into action. And I know just how to do it...'

In an instant, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon sprays the other Water-Type in the face with Water Gun before running towards a nearby alleyway. After flipping him the bird, Squirtle taunts "Come and get me, sucker." before running inside.

Pointing at the retreating Squirtle, Misty orders "Go after him, Poliwhirl! Don't let him escape!", prompting Poliwhirl to start chasing after him.

-=O=-

"Stop running, damn it!" snapped Poliwhirl irritably as he ran after Squirtle, trying his hardest to keep up with him.

Whoever could've guessed that a Pokemon that resembled like a turtle could move so quickly?

Flipping him the bird once again, Squirtle replies "Go fuck yourself! If you want me, come and get me!" before turning into what seemed to be a nearby dead end. "Aw crap, looks like I'm trapped..."

"End of the line. Now I've got you where I want you." remarked Poliwhirl before creating a sphere of water in between his hands.

Before he could get the chance to throw it however, the other Water-Type held up one of his hands and said "Ease up there, frog boy. I don't want to fight."

"Well, too bad - my Trainer ordered me to take you down and that's what I'm going to do."

"Not even if we can work out a deal with each other?" asked the Squirtle with a wry smirk, causing the other Water-Type to cancel the attack before eyeing him warily.

"...A deal? You're offering me a deal?" asked Poliwhirl before narrowing his eyes in suspicion. "You're just trying to lower my guard, aren't you?"

"Nope. This is a honest-to-Arceus offer I'm making - all I ask is that you hear me out before you start slinging attacks at me."

"...Alright, I'm listening."

"Okay, listen up - we both know that your Trainer is pretty high on the idea of catching me, right?" asked Squirtle knowingly with Poliwhirl giving him a nod. Taking it as a sign to continue, he adds "Well, I think that she's one hot tamale I wouldn't mind being around - those legs, those hips, that red hair and those tits - all of that in one delicious-looking package. Mmm mmm, good!"

"Get to the point." replied Poliwhirl as he clenched his fists, annoyed with what the Squirtle had said.

"Well, if you insist." answered the Squirtle before taking off his sunglasses to look the Tadpole Pokemon in the eyes. "To put it simply, I'm willing to take a dive in our little fight so your Trainer can catch me. What do you say?"

Confused at what the Squirtle was saying, Poliwhirl asked "You're willing to take a dive? But why?"

"Because if I do and you win this fight, I'll end up getting captured by that completely hot babe you call your Trainer and getting to be around a chick like that 24/7 is worth getting captured over." replied Squirtle with a perverted grin before his expression changed to something more serious-looking. "Not only that, but I know that our gang won't be able to evade the law forever and someone - most likely Officer Jenny, considering how persistent she is - will eventually capture us. Contrary to what the boss believes, we're not invincible and it's a damn shame that he and the others can't see that."

"Okay, so you apparently want out of this gang of yours before things start going south, right?"

"Got it in one, frog boy. So here's the deal - we toss around a few attacks in order to show off, then you hit me with your best attack and 'knock me out'. Sound good?"

"I don't know...I'd actually rather defeat you in battle fairly instead of going along with this plan of yours..."

"Look, all I'm asking is that you work with me here and we all come out ahead - you get the win and end up looking stronger for 'taking out' the second-in-command of the Squirtle Squad, your Trainer gets a new Pokemon and I get to hang out with that hot redhead for the rest of my days. Everyone wins."

"And what about the rest of your gang? I'm sure that they won't be happy about you switching sides like this..." asked Poliwhirl, crossing his arms.

"Alright, since you apparently don't look convinced, I'll sweeten the deal since you brought him up - you go along with this and I'll help you guys out with catching the others. How about that?" suggested Squirtle with a grin. "I know where our gang's main hiding spots are, so you're going to need someone like me if you're going to find the others."

"You're willing to change sides in order to help us bust the rest of your gang?"

"If it means I avoid getting busted by Officer Jenny and get to spend more time with that delicious-looking Trainer of yours? Yes."

After spending a few minutes mulling over Squirtle's offer, Poliwhirl nods and offers him a handshake, saying "Alright, you've got yourself a deal. But if you try to double-cross me during our 'fight', you can bet that I'm going to be knocking you out for real."

"Wouldn't dream of it." replied Squirtle as he accepted the gesture, sealing the deal between them. Giving him a smirk, he asks "So...ready to put on a show for that Trainer of yours?"

-=O=-

"You think they're okay in there? They haven't come out yet..." asked Lincoln as he glanced at the entrance to the alleyway, wonderng if the two Water-Types were alright.

"I don't know. I don't hear the sound of fighting in there..." replied Misty as she started to walk over to peer inside. Before she could get any closer however, a jet of water suddenly burst from the dark alleyway, bringing Poliwhirl along with it.

A few seconds later, the Squirtle had stepped out of the alleyway with a smirk on his face.

"Now do you see why I'm the boss' #2? You don't stand a chance against me." taunted the Tiny Turtle Pokemon before giving Poliwhirl a subtle wink. Thanks to the fact he was still wearing his sunglasses at the time, nobody had noticed it.

"We'll see about that." replied Poliwhirl in a challenging tone before creating a half-powered Water Pulse in his hands and rearing it back to throw it. "Eat this! Water Pulse!"

As the sphere of water got closer, Squirtle scoffed and said "Like I'm gonna let something like that hit me. Check this out!" before retreating back into his shell. As the sphere of water started to get closer, the shell started spinning wildly as a mirror-like sheen started to completely cover it.

Upon touching the shell, the Water Pulse attack was immediately launched back at Poliwhirl with double the force, knocking him back several feet and causing him to let out a small groan of discomfort.

Luckily for him, the attack didn't do as much harm as it could've done at full power, but it still stung a little.

'...Ouch. That looked like it hurt...' thought Lincoln before taking out his Pokedex to find out more about the move the Water-Type had just used.

'Mirror Coat, a special-based Psychic-Type move. The user counters any special-based attack sent towards them before returning it back with twice the original power.'

Giving Poliwhirl a smirk as he glared at him, Squirtle says "Like my Mirror Coat attack? Anything you can throw at me will be sent back right back ya with double the punch. You don't stand a chance against me."

"We'll see about that." grunted Poliwhirl before jumping into the air in order to use his next attack. "Let's see your Mirror Coat protect you from this! Body Slam!"

With a mocking chuckle, Squirtle answered "Easily! Do your worst, frog boy!" before activating Mirror Coat again as Poliwhirl's body started to descend upon him.

Unfortunately for him (or so it seemed to the others, anyway), the Psychic-Type move did not protect him from the full-body attack, sending him crashing to the ground.

Wincing slightly as he got back to his feet, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon says "...I have to say, you're pretty good. You should join up with us - we could use someone like you."

"Never! My loyalty is to Misty and no one else!"

"Then I'll just have to kick your ass instead."

As the two seemingly start throwing everything they had at each other with Misty barking the occasional order, Lincoln says "Those two are really going at it, huh Pikachu? Makes me wonder on how strong the leader's gotta be if the second-in-command's putting up this much of a fight."

"Same here. So who's going to fight him?" asked Pikachu curiously.

"Not sure. I might go with Bulbasaur or Charmander - I could use the experience when it comes to working with either one of them during a battle." answered Lincoln thoughtfully. "Not only that, but I think that having them face off against the leader of the Squirtles would be a good way to see if they're any good at battling or not."

"Bulbasaur's a safer bet - the Squirtle might try to target the flame on Charmander's tail."

"And that's a bad thing, I take it?"

Nodding, Pikachu answers "Very. From what I know about the Charmander species, if the flame on their tail ever goes out, their life ends up going with it."

Wincing upon hearing this, Lincoln says "...Okay, definitely not Charmander then. I don't want to have to break the news to Damian that I had gotten the little guy killed because of poor judgement. Bulbasaur it is."

"Sounds good to me. But if he ends up going down, I get the next crack at the leader."

"Fair enough. Now hush - I think the fight's about to end."

As he stared down the other Water-Type standing across from him, Squirtle says "...I take back what I said earlier - you're not just good, you're really good. You sure that you don't want to reconsider joining us?" in a worn-out tone.

"Not happening." replied Poliwhirl, equally as tired. "As I said before - my loyalty is to Misty and no one else."

"We've almost got him, Poliwhirl - finish him off! Use Mega Punch!" ordered Misty as she pointed at Squirtle, who gives the Tadpole Pokemon a subtle look before mouthing 'do it now'.

With a nod, Poliwhirl rears back his fist and slams it hard into the other Water-Type's face, sending him flying back several feet before landing on the ground with a crash.

As he felt his face start to swell up slightly from the blow, Squirtle mumbled "...You weren't supposed to hit me for real, you dick..."

In a tone that implied otherwise, Poliwhirl replied "Guess I don't know my own strength. Sorry about that." as Squirtle flipped him the bird with a pained groan. Dusting his hands off, he says "And that's that. You can go ahead and catch him now."

"Good work, Poliwhirl." complimented Misty with a smile before walking over with a Pokeball in hand in order to capture the semi-conscious Water-Type. Upon seeing the damage Poliwhirl's Mega Punch had done, she adds "Wow, you must've hit him pretty hard to mess his face up like that."

"I felt that doing something like that to him was appropriate considering how he was speaking about you earlier." replied Poliwhirl with a shrug as Misty turned her attention to the fallen Squirtle with a confident smirk on her face.

"Looks like you lose." stated Misty before giving the Squirtle an appreciative look. "Still, I have to admit that you definitely put up a fight against my Poliwhirl, though - that's something I can definitely respect. You're going to be one hell of a battler once we really get started on your training."

"Looking forward to it, babe. So are you going to catch me or what? My face is killing me."

Though Misty had no idea what the Water-Type had said to her, she took it as her cue to throw the Pokeball she was holding.

As the Pokeball touched his shell and started to pull him inside, the Squirtle thought 'Well, there goes my freedom as a wild Pokemon, but getting the chance to hang around a hot chick like that is totally worth it.'

Once the Pokeball had went still a few seconds later, Misty picks it up and holds it into the air victoriously, saying "Alright, I've finally managed to catch a Squirtle! Yes!"

"Nice going, Misty!" complimented Lincoln with a grin as he walked over and patted her on the back.

"Thanks. Now we just need to find out where the leader is so you can catch him."

After glancing at the Pokeball in Misty's hand for a few seconds, Lincoln asks "...Hey Misty, do you think that your new Squirtle would be willing to help us find him?"

Giving him a confused look, Misty asks "Why would he do something like that?"

"Well, he does seem to like you. Maybe if you ask him, he'll be willing to help us out?"

After taking a few seconds to mull over Lincoln's suggestion, Misty replies "Couldn't hurt to try, I guess." before sending her newly-captured Pokemon back out.

As soon as he had taken form in front of her, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon said "It hasn't been even a minute and you're already sending me back out. You must really be hot for me, huh?" with a smirk on his face. "So whatcha need, babe?"

"We're looking for the rest of your friends - they've caused a lot of trouble for Officer Jenny and the rest of the people living here. While I'm certain you're going to say no, I'd like to ask if you're willing to help us out."

"If it were any other Trainer that had asked me that, I would've told them to go to hell. But since it's you, I think I'd be willing to work with you guys just this once." replied Squirtle with a nod.

As Misty turned to him for a translation, Lincoln states "He says he's willing to work with us. Think we should let Officer Jenny and Brock know?"

"Might be a good idea. We should tell them that we've managed to get one of the Squirtle on our side." replied Misty with a nod.

"Then let's go find them - the sooner we do, the sooner we can find the leader." said Lincoln before taking out his Pokedex and asking "Dexter, can you send a message to Officer Jenny, please?"

'Why don't you just call her? I do have a phone feature, you know. In fact, I believe I told you about it yesterday.' stated Dexter simply. 'I can contact anyone within a set radius of your current location, but no further than that.'

"Oh yeah, I remember..." mused Lincoln thoughtfully. "Hey...I know you can send e-mails to people - how far can you send those?"

'Thankfully, I don't have to worry about limitations when it comes to that. If I'm connected to the internet, I can have them sent anywhere - even as far as the other side of the world.'

"And video chat? Can you do that?"

'Unfortunately not. While I am filled with impressive features, video chat is not one of them.'

'Guess I'll have to do with e-mails for now until I'm able to speak to Ronnie and Clyde again.' thought Lincoln before giving the Pokedex a glance. "Well, since you mentioned the idea of calling Officer Jenny earlier, can you do that for me, please?"

'Certainly. One moment.' replied Dexter before a dial tone started to come from the Pokedex's speaker.

-=O=-

-With Officer Jenny & Brock (10:55 AM)-

"...This sucks...how could I let that mutt get the drop on me like that...?" muttered a Squirtle as he laid on the street next to what appeared to be several candy bars. As he started to reach for one of them, a Pokeball had hit his hand, pulling him inside. "No! My candy bars..."

After watching the Pokeball wiggle around for a bit before going still, Jenny walks over and picks it up while humming what sounded like Queen's 'Another One Bites The Dust' to herself. After looking over the Pokeball and nodding in satisfaction, she pockets it while thinking about what led to her most recent capture.

-Flashback-

As she and Brock continued to follow after Growlithe, Jenny says "That's it, boy - keep tracking that little bastard down!"

"I have to say this, Officer - your Growlithe's one hell of a tracker. I thought we'd be at this all day." complimented Brock, bringing a smile to the female officer's face.

"Same here. Good thing I asked useful people like you and your friends to help me out, huh?"

As the two started to follow Growlithe around a nearby corner, the sound of a man's voice shouting "Stop! Thief!" had caught Jenny's attention, causing her to immediately stop in her tracks.

"Damn it, someone just had to get robbed just as we were starting to get close to the Squirtle Growlithe had tracked down..." groaned Jenny in annoyance before heading over in order to assist the man with his situation. "Here's hoping that the two are connected somehow..."

Upon seeing Jenny approaching his shop, the owner - a portly middle-aged man - said "Oh, thank Arceus you're here, Officer." before pointing at a retreating figure that was running down a nearby street. "That little bastard had stolen some of my shop's candy bars!"

"Alright, I'll..." started Jenny before noticing who the thief in question was - a sunglasses-wearing Squirtle with several bars of candy clutched in his arms. "...get right on that."

After whistling to get Growlithe's attention, she points at the Squirtle and says "Get him, boy."

"With pleasure." replied the Fire-Type before bounding down the street towards the Squirtle, who immediately panicked and tried to escape with the candy bars he had stolen.

Unfortunately for him, those bars would end up being the reason behind his capture a few minutes later - because he had refused to let go of them in order to make his getaway, he had found himself unable to fight back.

After a brief chase down the street, Growlithe pounces on the Squirtle, taking him down and scattering the stolen bars everywhere.

"Mercy! Mercy!" pleaded the Water-Type as Growlithe, fangs engulfed in flames, prepared to bite down on him.

He would receive none.

-Flashback End-

"Just two more left. I just hope that those two kids are having the same luck we are right now." said Jenny before giving Brock a curious look. "Speaking of those two...what's your relationship with them, anyway?"

"Misty's a fellow gym leader like myself and Lincoln's a Trainer I had the pleasure of meeting each other back in Pewter City. He's the one that invited me to join him and Misty on their travels together." replied Brock with a smile as he reminisced about all of the adventures he had experienced with the pair so far.

"And what about those two? How do they know each other?" asked Jenny curiously.

"From what I understand, they met on Route 1 and had been travelling together with each other since then." said Brock before lowering his voice to a whisper. "Don't let Misty know that I told you this, but she's got it bad for the little guy. And if I had to take a guess, the feeling's probably mutual with him, too."

"Aw...young love. How wonderful..." gushed Jenny, starry-eyed.

Giving her a strange look, Brock answers "Yeah, I guess it is. Just remember not to mention it around Misty, please. She threatened to neuter me if I ever told anyone and I like having my stones where they are at the moment."

Before Jenny could give him a reply, the sound of something beeping coming from her pocket had caught her attention. After reaching inside and taking out what appeared to be a cell phone, she answers the call and asks "Hello?"

"Officer Jenny? Can you hear me?" questioned Lincoln's voice from the speaker, causing Brock to look at Jenny in both confusion and annoyance.

"...You're not interested in me, but you were willing to give Lincoln your phone number?" asked Brock, eyebrow twitching slightly.

"I most certainly did not!" retorted Jenny before turning her attention back to the phone. "How did you get my number, young man?"

'That would be my doing. I contacted the local police station and they connected my call directly to your phone.' replied Dexter's voice.

"That explains a lot..." muttered Jenny before asking "So did you need something or what? In case you've forgotten, you two are supposed to be chasing after those Squirtles, remember?"

"That's what we want to talk to you about, Officer - Misty managed to capture one of them." replied Lincoln's voice, causing her mood to lighten up considerably.

"Really? That's great! I've managed to find and capture three of the little bastards myself with the help of your friend here - if it hadn't been for him and his Geodude, one of them probably would've gotten away again."

"That's good to know, Officer. At this rate, we'll have them all busted in no time."

With a nod, Jenny replied "Looks like it. So how are things with you right now? Are you going after the leader next?"

"We are. And believe it or not, we've managed to convince the Squirtle Misty just captured to help us out." said Lincoln, causing a bewildered look to appear on both Brock and Jenny's faces.

"You managed to convince him to help you? How the hell did you manage to do that?" asked Jenny, perplexed.

After a few seconds, the eleven year-old's voice drops to a whisper as he answers "I think he's smitten with her and thinks it'll help him get in her good books if he helps us."

"...Wait...he's offering to help you two simply because he finds her attractive?" questioned Jenny, both confused and slightly annoyed at the fact that the Water-Type had bothered to offer something like that to Misty and not her.

Still, she wasn't going to look a gift horse in the mouth - if he wanted to offer his assistance in busting the leader, she certainly wasn't going to complain...even if her pride had been damaged somewhat at the reason the Tiny Turtle Pokemon was helping those two in the first place.

"That's right, Officer. Are you okay with this?"

"I'm fine with it. If anything, I'd be an idiot if I refused a useful offer like that."

"Great. In any case, Misty and I will see about trying to find the leader with his help. Once we manage to find and capture him, we'll head back to the Pokemon Center. Can you meet us there?"

"Sure thing - I'll see you two there. Good luck with catching the leader." answered Jenny as she ended the call before giving the phone a sulking look.

"Officer? Is something wrong?" asked Brock worriedly.

"...They managed to catch another one of the Squirtles." replied the teal-haired woman as she continued to stare at the phone.

"That's great news! At this rate, we'll have them all captured by this afternoon!" said the Rock-Type specialist with a smile, only to notice that Jenny was still sulking. "What's the problem? I thought you'd be happy about something like this."

"...He's offering to help them find his leader simply because he found his new Trainer to be attractive-looking..."

"...Officer?"

"Damn it, why didn't he make that kind of offer to me before?! It would've made my job a hell of a lot easier if I had one of those little bastards working with me!" cried Jenny before glowering at the phone in her hand. "What the hell does she have that I don't?!"

With an uneasy look on his face, Brock suggests "...Maybe he's into redheads?"

-=O=-

-Back With Lincoln & Misty (11:00 AM)-

While the female officer was still going on with her rant, Misty's Squirtle was leading the two Trainers and Pikachu towards a small pond located on the outskirts of town.

"We're almost there. Stay close." commented the Water-Type as he continued to lead the three to their destination.

"And how do you know that your soon-to-be former leader will be there?" asked Pikachu as he eyed Squirtle suspiciously.

"The pond's our favorite hangout spot - we usually head there to relax after a day of causing trouble for the townsfolk." replied Squirtle, giving the Mouse Pokemon a glance. "That's the most likely place he'll be at the moment."

"If you say so..."

"I'm certain. Now hush - we don't want him to know we're on to him just yet."

After a few more minutes, the four eventually see the aforementioned pond with the leader of the Squirtles there, floating on the surface of the water with a smile on his face.

Smirking confidently, Squirtle points at him and comments "What'd I tell you? I said that he'd be here and lo and behold - there he is."

"Looks like it. Good going." complimented Lincoln before taking out his Pokedex and pointing it at the other Squirtle.

'Pokedex data on Squirtle has already been collected. Would you like to review this data?'

"No, just tell me what moves he knows, please." replied Lincoln simply, inwardly hoping that the Tiny Turtle Pokemon knew a move that would catch his interest.

'Of course. One moment, please.' replied Dexter as the Pokedex scanned the leader. A few seconds later, he adds 'This male Squirtle is Level 15 and knows the moves Bubble, Water Gun, Withdraw, Tackle and Aqua Jet.'

"Aqua Jet?" asked Lincoln in confusion.

"The boss' signature attack. Nobody's been able to withstand a single hit from that. Even the mutt that hangs around with Officer Jenny had been taken down in one shot by it." replied Misty's Squirtle with a frown. "I don't exactly know how it works, but when he uses it, he moves fast. Really fast."

'A move that allows him to attack quickly...sounds like the Water-Type version of Quick Attack.' thought Lincoln, giving the other Squirtle in the pond an appreciative glance as he put his Pokedex away. Turning to face Misty's Squirtle, he asks "So what's the plan on confronting this guy? Any suggestions?"

"Let me try to talk to him first. Maybe I can get him to see reason and have him turn himself in."

"...Alright, go ahead. But if he refuses, I'm having my Charmander take him down, got that?"

"Yeah yeah, I got it. Just go hide in those bushes over there until I give you the signal to come out." replied the Tiny Turtle Pokemon before heading over to speak to his soon-to-be former leader. "Uh...hey, boss. How're you doing?"

Opening one of his eyes to glance at him, the other Squirtle gave him a wave and says "Pretty good, considering what happened earlier today." before swimming over and getting out of the pond. "But enough about me. Let's talk about you."

"Me, boss?" asked Misty's Squirtle in confusion.

"Yes, you. We've been friends for a while now, right? About three or four years, I'd wager?"

"Sounds about right. But why are you bringing this up?"

Suddenly, the leader's expression turned cold as he replied "Because from what I saw and heard earlier, it's clear that you don't care about any of that anymore."

Eyes widening slightly, Misty's Squirtle says "Boss, I..."

"Don't bother trying to explain anything to me - I know what's going on here. You're stabbing me in the back to work with those guys hiding out in the bushes over there." replied the leader with a scowl before he pointed at the bushes Lincoln and his friends had chosen to hide behind. "You guys can come on out now. There's no point in trying to hide from me anymore."

Realizing that the jig was up, Lincoln, Misty and Pikachu step out into the open.

"...So these guys are the ones you're siding with over me? Seriously?" asked the leader incredulously before giving them a disdainful look. "Well from what I'm seeing here, you must've been out of your mind if you thought these guys were a better choice."

"Yeah? Well from what I'm seeing, you're not much of a choice either, turtle boy." retorted Lincoln with a frown before reaching for Bulbasaur's Pokeball. "But enough about that. Let's get down to the real reason we came down here to see you."

"Oh? And what's that?" asked the leader with a sneer.

"To capture you and put an end to your little troublemaking spree once and for all, that's what."

-=O=-

Upon hearing what Lincoln had just said, the leader looked at him incredulously for a few seconds before breaking out into a fit of laughter.

"You? Capture me? Oh man, that's rich..." chuckled the Water-Type before giving the white-haired boy a nasty-looking smirk. "You don't have what it takes to catch someone like me, kid. Get outta here."

"Not happening. You're coming with me, one way or another." retorted Lincoln as he activated the Pokeball, enlarging it. "So we can do this one of two ways - the easy way where you turn yourself in and I catch you or the hard way where I have one of my Pokemon beat you down and then I catch you. Either way, I'm going to capture you. So what's it going to be?"

After taking a few seconds pretending to think over the two choices Lincoln had given him, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon replied "I choose the third way - kicking your ass. If you want a fight, you've got one." before giving Lincoln a sinister-looking smirk. "Just know that I'm on a much different level than that traitorous piece of crap over there. There's a good reason why I'm the leader of the Squirtle Squad and you're about to see why when I kick your Pokemon's ass all over this place. So go ahead and send out whoever you want - I'll knock 'em down and out."

"...Squirtle Squad? You seriously call your gang that?"

"Shut the hell up and send your damn Pokemon out already."

"Alright, if you insist..." answered Lincoln before throwing the Pokeball into the air. "Come on out, Bulbasaur!"

Upon seeing the Seed Pokemon materializing in front of Lincoln a few seconds later, the Squirtle chuckles before asking "A Bulbasaur, huh? At least you've got a brain in that head of yours unlike that dimwit officer that keeps chasing after us. Who sends a Fire-Type Pokemon after someone like me? Seriously?"

Giving the Grass-Type a sneer, he adds "Though I don't expect that your leafy little buddy there will be able to do much against me."

"We'll see about that." replied Lincoln firmly before giving Bulbasaur a glance. "Think you can take him?"

"Considering that he's a Water-Type, I should be able to hold my own against him just fine." said Bulbasaur as he eyed the Squirtle, as if sizing him up. "The real question is whether you'll be able to guide me to victory or not."

"Hey, what kind of Trainer would I be if I didn't? Certainly not a good one, that's for sure." snarked Lincoln right back at him, unamused with the Seed Pokemon's comment.

Scoffing in amusement, the Squirtle says "You actually think that weak little weed can actually win against me? What a joke." in a taunting voice before cracking his neck in preparation for the fight he was about to get into. "But if you really want me to kick his ass that badly, who am I to stop you?"

"We'll see if you'll still be able to talk smack after he manages to beat you." retorted Lincoln before giving Bulbasaur a glance. "You ready?"

"I suppose I am. Let's just get this over with."

"Alright then! Use Tackle!"

Hearing the order, Bulbasaur charges towards the leader, intent on slamming his entire body into him.

Seeing this, the Water-Type smirks asks "Tackle, huh? You're still using that shitty move? Let me show you what a real attack looks like." before crouching down slightly as water started to form around his body.

Eyes widening slightly at the unusual sight, Lincoln asks "...What in the world is he doing?", only to get his answer a few seconds later when the leader, now fully covered in a swirling sphere of water, charges towards Bulbasaur at an incredible speed - one that had definitely caught the white-haired boy off guard upon seeing it. "What the heck?!"

"That's the attack I warned you about earlier - the boss' Aqua Jet attack!" exclaimed Misty's Squirtle as he pointed at the leader, who looked like a shimmering blue blur as he sped towards Bulbasaur, who immediately stopped charging upon seeing how fast his opponent was going.

Unfortunately for him, that had been a poor decision to make as the leader, along with the sphere of water that surrounded him, slammed hard into the Grass-Type sending him flying several feet before he came crashing onto the ground.

With a smirk as the water surrounding his body vanishes, the leader boasts "How do you like my Aqua Jet move?" with a cocky smirk as he adjusted his sunglasses. "It's my signature technique that fits my 'hit hard and hit fast' battling style."

Groaning as he started to get back onto his feet, Bulbasaur mutters "I don't like it at all."

"Good. You're not supposed to enjoy it."

"Well, I'm pretty sure he'll enjoy using this - Bulbasaur, let's try something at a longer range! Use Razor Leaf!" ordered Lincoln, causing Bulbasaur to whip up a volley of razor-sharp leaves before sending them flying towards his opponent.

While the Water-Type had managed to dodge a fair number of the dangerous leaves, some had managed to connect, leaving shallow cuts on his body and shell.

"So you're not completely helpless after all, huh? Good." said Squirtle as he wiped away a small bit of blood that had trickled from a cut on his cheek. "It'll just make my victory all the more sweeter when I win."

"That's 'if' you end up winning. I'm nowhere near done yet." retorted Bulbasaur, glaring at him.

"Well, let's see if that's still the case after this - Water Gun!"

Pointing at the oncoming blast of water, Lincoln orders "Use Razor Leaf again!"

As the two attacks collided with each other, the force behind Squirtle's Water Gun managed to push the attack through Bulbasaur's Razor Leaf, despite the type disadvantage, and successfully hit Bulbasaur dead-on, knocking him back several feet.

"Ugh..." groaned the Seed Pokemon as he tried to get back to his feet.

"Man, you suck. For all that tough talk you and that loser you call your trainer were doing earlier, it looks like you don't have what it takes to back it up." said Squirtle in a bored tone. "So I think I'll go ahead and just put you out of my misery right now."

"Go ahead and try it, it you think you have the guts..." taunted Bulbasaur, causing the Water-Type to narrow his eyes before preparing to use Aqua Jet again, once again covering his body with water.

"Get ready to say goodnight, seed boy! Eat this - Aqua Jet!" replied Squirtle before speeding towards Bulbasaur, intent on finishing him off.

As he got closer and closer, the Seed Pokemon watched the Squirtle carefully before a grin appeared on his face. After slightly opening the bulb on his back, he releases a thick cloud of purple-colored pollen from within it, causing it to mix in with the water swirling Squirtle's body.

Almost immediately, the Tiny Turtle Pokemon cancels his attack as he starts coughing violently while his face starts turning a sickly-looking shade of purple.

"...Wh-what did you just do to me...?" croaked the Squirtle weakly before breaking out into another coughing fit.

"What in the world was that, Bulbasaur? I've never seen a move like that before." asked Lincoln, wondering what the Grass-Type had just used.

"It's a little something I like to call 'Poisonpowder'" replied Bulbasaur with a proud smirk on his face as he managed to get to back onto his feet with little effort, looking relatively unharmed despite the damage he had taken during the fight. "It's some pretty nasty stuff - one touch of it and you'll be feeling the effects of it almost instantly. It's not very accurate however, so I had to draw him in close by taunting him while acting like his last attack critically damaged me."

"So you're alright? You're not hurt?" asked Lincoln, slightly concerned.

"Don't get me wrong - I'm not walking away from this fight completely unscathed. But at least I'll just need some time to rest in order to fully recover, unlike our sunglasses-wearing friend over there." said Bulbasaur as he glanced at the leader, who was still coughing violently. "From the way he's coughing, some of the poison probably got into his body."

"It won't kill him or do any lasting harm to his health, will it?" asked Lincoln as he eyes the leader worriedly. "I still do want to capture him, after all..."

"It's not fatal, but I can safely say that he's going to be wishing that it was. Until it either wears off or he gets immediate treatment, the poison's going to run rampant through his body, causing him unbelievable amounts of pain - even more so since he had ingested some of it."

As he winced at the thought of what the poisoned Water-Type was going through right now, Lincoln mutters "...Remind me never to go anywhere near that Poisonpowder of yours." before giving the coughing Squirtle a pitying look. "I guess we better deal with him quickly so we can get him to the Pokemon Center. Can you still fight?"

"I can. What's your next order?"

Pointing at the coughing Water-Type, Lincoln orders "Restrain him with Vine Whip. What you do after that is up to you - just try not to hurt him too badly."

"Got it. Here goes." replied Bulbasaur before sending out his vines and wrapping them tightly around the leader, completely restraining him.

"You...you think I'm done just 'cause you tied me up and poisoned me like a coward?! I don't think so!" slurred the Water-Type as he tried to break free from the vines, only to find his strength starting to fade away quickly as the poison continued to weaken him. "We're...we're just getting...getting..."

Before he could finish, Bulbasaur hoists him off the ground and says "I'm going to enjoy this part." before repeatedly slamming the leader hard onto the ground, causing everyone else in the area to wince every time the Tiny Turtle Pokemon hit the dirt.

After the fifteenth slam, Misty's Squirtle runs over and says "Hey man, that's enough. I think he's done.", causing Bulbasaur to stop slamming the other Water-Type long enough to give him a look.

Upon seeing the heavily battered state of his opponent's body, the Seed Pokemon decides to let him go, feeling that the other Squirtle was right - his opponent was clearly unable to continue.

"...I'm...the leader of the Squirtle Squad...I'm not supposed to...lose..." murmured the leader weakly before finally losing consciousness.

After checking over the unconscious Water-Type, Misty's Squirtle turns to Lincoln and says "Yeah, he's definitely done. If you're going to capture him, now would be a good time to do it."

Nodding in agreement, Lincoln says "Right. Here goes." before taking a Pokeball out of his bag and throwing it at the leader, hitting him in the side and causing it to pull him inside. After the ball wiggles around for a few minutes, it finally flashes and goes still.

Picking the Pokeball up and looking it over, Lincoln thought 'Bulbasaur, Charmander and Squirtle...I've finally managed to capture all three of the Kanto starters.' before removing Skyera's Pokeball and sending it to Oak's lab. Once the Flying-Type's Pokeball had vanished, Lincoln places his newly-caught Squirtle's Pokeball on his belt and says "There. Now I can keep an eye on you."

"Nice going, Lincoln. Your Bulbasaur really showed that Squirtle who's boss." congratulated Misty with a grin as she draped an arm around his shoulder.

"Thanks, Misty." replied Lincoln before giving her Squirtle an apologetic look. "Sorry about having to capture your former leader, but it had to be done."

"It's alright. Just make sure to take care of him and we're good." replied the Water-Type dismissively before he took a small card-like object out of his shell and held it out to the white-haired boy. "By the way, I think this is yours."

"My Trainer Card! You got it back for me!" said Lincoln with a smile as he took the card and looked it over. "Where did you find it?"

"I managed to nick it off of the boss when I was checking on him earlier." answered Squirtle with a shrug.

"Well, thanks for getting it back for me. I appreciate it."

"Not a problem. So...uh, what now? We're done here, right?"

"Yeah, we're done." replied Lincoln with a nod. "Let's head back to the Pokemon Center - I'm certain that Officer Jenny must be getting bored of waiting on us."

-=O=-

-Pokemon Center - Lobby (11:30 AM)-

As the aforementioned officer paced around the lobby anxiously, Brock says "You need to calm down, Officer. Those two will be here any moment. I'm sure of it."

"How can I calm down? Those two are going after the leader of those miscreants and I'd like to know on whether they managed to captured the little shit or not!" snapped Jenny irritably before she continued to pace around the lobby again.

"I know you're eager to know on whether they caught him or not, but seriously - you need to calm down." said Brock, surprisingly calm despite the fact the teal-haired woman had snapped at him just a few seconds ago.

"...Yeah, I guess I should. Sorry about yelling at you like that." mumbled the teal-haired woman, scratching the back of her head. "I'm just eager to finally put this matter to rest once and for all."

"It's alright, Officer. If I were in your position, I'd be feeling just as anxious about waiting for them to come back." said Brock before noticing something coming through the Pokemon Center's entranceway. "Speaking of which, here they come now. I told you they'd be back soon."

Hearing this, Jenny quickly turns her attention to the entrance and sees Lincoln, Misty, Pikachu and one of the Squirtles walking over towards her and Brock. Hurrying over to them, she says "There you are - I've been waiting for you two to come back!"

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Officer." replied Lincoln apologetically before he took his Squirtle's Pokeball off of his belt and showed it to her.

Eyeing the Pokeball curiously, Jenny asks "Does that Pokeball contain who I think it does...?"

Nodding, Lincoln says "Yep. This Pokeball contains the leader of the Squirtles, Officer." before placing it back onto his belt. "Which means that all five members of the Squirtle Squad are officially captured. You'll never have to worry about them causing trouble around here again."

After staring at him for a few seconds, the female officer says "It's finally over. My days of chasing those little troublemakers are finally over..." before giving him, Misty and Brock a grateful smile. "You three really came through for me and helped me finally put this matter to rest once and for all. Thank you."

"Glad we could be of assistance, Officer. We were happy to help you out." said Lincoln with a smile of his own before giving her a curious look. "So what're you planning to do with the three Squirtles you captured?"

With a vindictive smile on her face as she takes out three Pokeballs from her pockets and shows them off, Jenny answers "Community service. These three are going to be spending a long time repaying the debt they owe to this town. A very long time."

Shuddering at the fate that awaited the three Tiny Turtle Pokemon, Misty's Squirtle comments "Man, I really dodged a bullet there by getting captured by Misty earlier...I don't even want to think about what kind of 'community service' you've got in mind, Officer."

Noticing this, Jenny gives the Water-Type a firm look and says "As for you...you better consider yourself lucky that this young lady had managed to catch you before I did. But don't think that means you can start causing trouble again, got it?"

Rolling his eyes behind his sunglasses, Squirtle answers "Yeah yeah, I know...I'll be good. I promise."

Once she had finished speaking to Misty's Squirtle, Jenny turns her attention back to the three Trainers and says "Once again, I'd like to thank you three for what you've done for me today. Is there anything I can do to repay you for your help?"

"Well, since you're offering..." started Brock, only to be cut off when Misty grabs him by the ear and starts dragging him off.

"C'mon Romeo, you've already spent plenty of time with Officer Jenny today. Let's give the poor woman a break."

"Damn it, Misty! Let go of me!"

Watching as the redhead continued to drag Brock away while ignoring his protests, Jenny says "...You certainly have some 'interesting' friends, young man."

"Yep. But they're some of the best friends a guy like me could have." replied Lincoln, smiling in amusement.

-=O=-

(Later That Evening)

As he relaxed on one of the lobby's couches, Lincoln says "Man, what a day...we really had our hands full today, huh Pikachu?" while giving the Mouse Pokemon, who was happily enjoying a bottle of ketchup, a glance.

"That we did." replied the Electric-Type before glaring at the Pokeball containing Lincoln's newly-captured Squirtle. "I just hope our new 'friend' doesn't try to cause any trouble for the rest of us."

"We'll make sure to keep him in line if he tries anything. Don't worry."

"If you say so. So what's the plan now - are we done for today?"

"Not quite. I want to call Professor Oak and talk to him for a bit." answered Lincoln as he glanced at the VideoPhone booths. "It's been a few days since I've spoken to him anyway and I'm sure that he'd like to know how things are going so far."

"Suit yourself. As for me, I'm heading back to our room so I can finish my ketchup." replied Pikachu before hopping off of the couch he was sitting on and walking away. "Have fun. Make sure to say 'hi' to him for me."

Once Pikachu was gone, Lincoln walks over to one of the VideoPhone booths and dials the number to Professor Oak's laboratory. After a few seconds, the visage of the man himself appeared on the screen.

Upon seeing who had called him, Oak smiles and says "Mr. Loud, it's good to see you again. I was wondering on when you'd be calling me again."

As thoughts of everything he had went through recently ran through his mind, Lincoln says "I've been busy over the past couple of days, Professor. Very busy."

"Is that so? Mind sharing the details with me?"

"Sure thing, Professor." replied Lincoln with a nod before he started to tell Oak about everything he had experienced during his time on Routes 24 & 25.

Once Lincoln had finished his explanation fifteen minutes later, Oak blinks in surprise before saying "Well...you've certainly seen a lot over the past couple of days, haven't you?"

"That's an understatement if there ever was one, Professor." replied Lincoln with a roll of his eyes. "But yeah, that's what I've been up to ever since I left Cerulean City."

Nodding, Oak says "I see. So why are you heading to Cerulean Cape? I'm pretty sure that you need to head to Vermilion City if you're looking to win your next badge."

"Well...I decided to give Lisa a call after I had won the Cascade Badge and well...I learned about my belongings being sold off." answered Lincoln as a frown appeared on his face. "To be honest, it really hurt hearing that, Professor. It really did."

"I can imagine so." replied Oak, frowning as well. "Please continue."

"Well, after Lynn told me that my stuff had been sold off, I pretty much broke down and ran back to my room." replied Lincoln as he recalled the bitter memory of his sister's cruel words. "After Misty and I spoke to each other about what happened, she suggested the idea of going to Cerulean Cape in order to give me some time to relax and take my mind off of what happened."

"I see. Well, that sounds like a good plan, my boy - spending time with your friends is a good way to get your mind off of something as troubling as that." commented Oak, nodded in understanding. "And speaking of your friends, I'd like to hear your opinion on something, Mr. Loud."

"What's on your mind, Professor?" asked Lincoln curiously.

"Well, I spoke with your younger sister yesterday and she mentioned that two of your friends back in Royal Woods were interested in becoming Trainers as well. I'd like to ask for your input on that."

"You're talking about Clyde and Ronnie Anne, right? I seem to remember that they showed some interest in coming here to Kanto when I spoke to them."

"You've spoken to them, Mr. Loud? When was this?"

"When I called my sister a few days ago. We spoke with each other, got caught up and they even got the chance to meet Misty, though I'm sure Ronnie doesn't like her very much."

"I see. Well then, let me ask you this - would you trust them with the responsibilities of being a Trainer?" asked Oak, wondering what his answer would be.

"I would, Professor. And I'm not just saying this because they're my friends, either." replied Lincoln firmly. "Clyde's one of the most trustworthy people I know aside from certain members of my family and Ronnie's a good person despite the tough front she puts up. I honestly think that they would be excellent Trainers."

"I see. Well, I'll make sure to take the time to speak with them about the matter when I get the chance." answered Oak with a nod. "By the way, I hope you don't mind if I include your latest exploits in the progress report I'll be giving to your sister soon."

"Go right ahead. Just make sure that Lynn isn't around to ruin it this time with her big mouth."

"Don't worry, Lincoln - considering that I'd like to avoid a scene like last time, I'll only share it with people you deem trustworthy at the moment."

"Good idea, Professor." said Lincoln before snapping his fingers in realization. As he took the stone Damian gave him out of his pocket, he adds "Professor, I forgot to mention that I've obtained what may be another Mega Stone - Damian gave it to me while I was helping him down the mountain."

Eyes lighting up, Oak says "You've managed to acquire another one?" before hastily activating the transfer machine nearby. "Can you send it over to me, please? I'm certain that Professor Sycamore would like to examine this one as well."

"Sure thing, Professor. Hold on a bit." replied Lincoln before opening the nearby transfer machine and placing the stone inside. After activating it and sending it over, he asks "Now with that done, I'm going to go ahead and hang up now. Is that cool with you, Professor?"

With a smile, Oak nods and answers "Go ahead, my boy. After what you've been through today, you've earned it. Good night and goodbye."

"Same to you, Professor. Bye." replied Lincoln before hanging up the receiver. After letting out another yawn, he gets up and starts heading to his room for the day.

-=O=-

-Professor Oak's Laboratory - VideoPhone Room (3:25 PM)-

Upon seeing the Mega Stone appear in the transfer machine, Oak picks it up and says "Managing to find a Mega Stone and capturing the three Kanto starters within a matter of days...Mr. Loud's luck is absolutely remarkable." before letting out a scoff as he thought back to what Lynn had said when he gave the Loud family the first progress report. "...Bad luck my foot. From what I've seen and heard, the boy's the complete opposite of that."

After taking a few seconds to clear his mind of what the brunette had said to him that day, he dials in the number for Professor Sycamore's laboratory, intent on giving him the news on Lincoln's newest acquisition.

Upon appearing on the screen a few seconds later, Sycamore smiles upon seeing the older Professor and asks "Hello again, Samuel. Did you want to speak to me about something?"

"As a matter of fact, I do. Take a look at this." replied Oak before he held up the Mega Stone with a grin, causing Sycamore's eyes to gleam in delight.

"Another Mega Stone! Wonderful!" said the dark-haired professor happily before giving Oak a knowing smile. "Let me guess - your American friend managed to find it?"

"Given to him by an acquaintance, actually. But yes - the stone came from him."

"Well, he's certainly been a great help to my research, Samuel - I never knew that the stone you sent me a few days ago existed until just recently."

"Did you manage to confirm what I mentioned to you before - that it was a Mega Stone meant to be used with a Beedrill?" asked Oak curiously, receiving a nod from Sycamore in return.

"Yes. I had a visiting Trainer try it out with her Beedrill and it worked like a charm." replied Sycamore before pressing a button, causing an image to appear on the screen. "Here's what it looks like."

Eyes widening slightly, Oak mutters "Goodness...I certainly wouldn't want to run into something like that in the wild."

"Same here, old friend. Now then, what about the stone that your friend found? Can you send it over so I can examine it?" asked Sycamore eagerly, wanting to know more about the stone Lincoln had sent over.

Nodding as he opens up the transfer device again for the second time that night and places the stone inside, Oak answers "Of course. Are you finished with the other stone I sent you?"

"Almost. I'd like a little more time to examine it, if you don't mind." replied Sycamore before giving him a smile. "When you get the chance, be sure to thank Mr. Loud for allowing me to examine his Mega Stone collection, would you?"

"I'll make sure to do that." said Oak before sending the stone over to Sycamore's lab.

After taking the stone out and looking it over in satisfaction, Sycamore gives Oak a grateful nod and says "Many thanks, Samuel. I'll make sure to take good care of this while I examine it."

Giving the younger man a nod, Oak says "See that you do, Augustine. Goodbye."

"Goodbye, Samuel." replied Sycamore in turn before hanging up.

As the screen cuts off, Oak sits there for a moment before saying "Well now, I suppose with all of this new information I've managed to glean from Mr. Loud today, I should get started on that progress report..."

With this in mind, he leaves the VideoPhone room in order to return back to his study.

-=O=-

-Professor Sycamore's Laboratory - VideoPhone Room (8:40 AM)-

After hanging up, Sycamore starts looking over the new Mega Stone Oak had sent over with a smile on his face.

"That Lincoln boy is starting to intrigue me more and more by the minute, especially when it comes to his luck in finding Mega Stones. If only there was some way I could repay him for helping my research on Mega Evolution along..." mused the dark-haired professor thoughtfully before glancing at his Mega Ring, which was sitting on a nearby table.

After staring at it for a few seconds, his smile suddenly widened as an idea started to form in his mind.

"...And I think I know just how to do it."

-=O=-

(AN: I know Charmander evolves at Level 16, but I'm going to hold that off for a little while longer.)

Lincoln's Pokemon (Current)

Pikachu Lv.23 (Male)
Ability: Static
Nature: Mild
Moves Known: Thundershock, Growl, Quick Attack, Electroball, Thunder Wave, Iron Tail, Volt Tail (Custom Move)

Fearow Lv.25 (Female) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: Sniper
Nature: Calm
Moves Known: Fury Attack, Leer, Aerial Ace, Mirror Move, Pursuit, Assurance, Steel Wing

Poliwag Lv.18 (Male) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: Water Absorb
Nature: Jolly
Moves Known: Hypnosis, Water Gun, Water Sport, Double-Slap, ?

Beedrill Lv.18 (Male) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: Swarm
Nature: Lax
Moves Known: Poison Sting, String Shot, Bug Bite, Harden, Twineedle, Fury Attack, U-Turn, ?

Pidgeotto Lv.24 (Female) (Nickname: Skyera) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: Tangled Feet
Nature: Rash
Moves Known: Gust, Twister, Tackle, Sand Attack, Quick Attack, Whirlwind, Steel Wing

Zubat Lv.16 (Male) (Nickname: Bruce) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: Inner Focus
Nature: Quirky
Moves Known: Bite, Absorb, Wing Attack, Astonish, Supersonic

Sandshrew Lv.18 (Female) (Nickname: Andrea)
Ability: Sand Veil
Nature: Calm
Moves Known: Magnitude, Defense Curl, Rollout, Fury Cutter, Rapid Spin, ?

Clefable Lv.18 (Male) (Nickname: Astro)
Ability: Magic Guard
Nature: Gentle
Moves Known: Metronome, Disarming Voice, Double Slap, Follow Me, Minimize

Bulbasaur Lv.17 (Male)
Ability: Overgrow
Nature: Serious
Moves Known: Vine Whip, Tackle, Sleep Powder, Razor Leaf, Poisonpowder

Charmander Lv.15 (Male)
Ability: Blaze
Nature: Naive
Moves Known: Ember, Smokescreen, Metal Claw (Egg), Growl

Squirtle Lv.15 (Male)
Ability: Rain Dish
Nature: Rash
Moves Known: Water Gun, Withdraw, Bubble, Tackle, Aqua Jet (Egg)

Geodude Lv.? (?) (Will Be Used For Wonder Trade Only) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: ?
Nature: ?
Moves Known: ?

Paras Lv.? (?) (Will Be Used For Wonder Trade Only) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: ?
Nature: ?
Moves Known: ?

? Lv.? (?) (Will Be Used For Wonder Trade Only) (At Oak's Lab)
Ability: ?
Nature: ?
Moves Known: ?

Misty's Pokemon (Current)

Starmie Lv.19 (No Gender)
Ability: Natural Cure
Nature: Mild
Moves Known: Rapid Spin, Water Gun, Swift, ?

Poliwhirl Lv.26 (Male)
Ability: Damp
Nature: Bold
Moves Known: Water Pulse, Mega Punch, Body Slam, ?, ?

Gyarados Lv.22 (Male)
Ability: Intimidate
Nature: Rash
Moves Known: Thrash, Bite, Tackle, Leer, ?, ?

Goldeen Lv.16 (Female)
Ability: Swift Swim
Nature: Gentle
Moves Known: Horn Attack, Water Pulse, ?, ?

Squirtle Lv. 12 (Male)
Ability: Torrent
Nature: Bold
Moves Known: Withdraw, Water Gun, Tackle, Mirror Coat (Egg Move)

Brock's Pokemon (Current)

Geodude Lv.20 (Male)
Ability: Sturdy
Nature: Hardy
Moves Known: Defense Curl, Rollout, Tackle, Rock Polish, Rock Tomb

Onix Lv.21 (Male)
Ability: Rock Head
Nature: Adamant
Moves Known: Bind, Harden, Tackle, Rock Tomb, Rage, Stealth Rock

-=O=-

(AN: Only one omake this time.)

-Omake 57: (Lincoln/Misty/Jenny) (SilverNugget)-

(AN: This is a sequel of sorts to Omake #39 'Drunk & ****' by yoshi3000, which as we all know was a spin-off of Omake #31 'Lincoln's First Drink')

-Pokemon Center - Lobby (11:30 AM)-

As the aforementioned officer paced around the lobby anxiously, Brock says "You need to calm down, Officer. Those two will be here any moment. I'm sure of it."

"How can I calm down? Those two are going after the leader of those miscreants and I'd like to know on whether they managed to captured the little shit or not!" snapped Jenny irritably before she continued to pace around the lobby again.

"I know you're eager to know on whether they caught him or not, but seriously - you need to calm down." said Brock, surprisingly calm despite the fact the teal-haired woman had snapped at him just a few seconds ago.

"...Yeah, I guess I should. Sorry about yelling at you like that." mumbled the teal-haired woman, scratching the back of her head. "I'm just eager to finally put this matter to rest once and for all."

"It's alright, Officer. If I were in your position, I'd be feeling just as anxious about waiting for them to come back." said Brock before noticing something coming through the Pokemon Center's entranceway. "Speaking of which, here they come now. I told you they'd be back soon."

Hearing this, Jenny quickly turns her attention to the entrance and sees Lincoln, Misty, Pikachu and one of the Squirtles walking over towards her and Brock. Hurrying over to them, she says "There you are - I've been waiting for you two to come back!"

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Officer." replied Lincoln apologetically before he took his Squirtle's Pokeball off of his belt and showed it to her.

Eyeing the Pokeball curiously, Jenny asks "Does that Pokeball contain who I think it does...?"

Nodding, Lincoln says "Yep. This Pokeball contains the leader of the Squirtles, Officer." before placing it back onto his belt. "Which means that all five members of the Squirtle Squad are officially captured. You'll never have to worry about them causing trouble around here again."

After staring at him for a few seconds, the female officer says "It's finally over. My days of chasing those little troublemakers are finally over..." before giving him, Misty and Brock a grateful smile. "You three really came through for me and helped me finally put this matter to rest once and for all. Thank you."

"Glad we could be of assistance, Officer. We were happy to help you out." said Lincoln with a smile of his own before giving her a curious look. "So what're you planning to do with the three Squirtles you captured?"

With a vindictive smile on her face as she takes out three Pokeballs from her pockets and shows them off, Jenny answers "Community service. These three are going to be spending a long time repaying the debt they owe to this town. A very long time."

Shuddering at the fate that awaited the three Tiny Turtle Pokemon, Misty's Squirtle comments "Man, I really dodged a bullet there by getting captured by Misty earlier...I don't even want to think about what kind of 'community service' you've got in mind, Officer."

Noticing this, Jenny gives the Water-Type a firm look and says "As for you...you better consider yourself lucky that this young lady had managed to catch you before I did. But don't think that means you can start causing trouble again, got it?"

Rolling his eyes behind his sunglasses, Squirtle answers "Yeah yeah, I know...I'll be good. I promise."

"So...what now, Officer? Our business with each other is finished, right?" asked Lincoln, causing Jenny to scratch her chin thoughtfully.

"Yeah, but...I dunno, something about just saying 'thank you' to you three for your help today just doesn't sit right with me..." replied the teal-haired woman with a perplexed frown. "You guys seriously helped me out and I'd really like to show how grateful I am."

After thinking things over for a bit, she snaps her fingers in realization and says "I know! How about I bring you down to my favorite bar and buy you a couple of rounds?"

Eyes lighting up at the idea of drinking, Squirtle asks "Booze? Can I have some, too?"

Upon seeing the hopeful look on the Tiny Turtle Pokemon's face, Jenny rolls her eyes before saying "...Yeah, I'll buy you a round or two as well. You did help out with catching the leader of your former gang, after all."

"Sweet."

With an unsure look on his face, Lincoln says "I dunno...the last time I went to a bar with someone, I woke up naked in the lobby of the Pewter City Pokemon Center next to Nurse Joy and..."

"Don't finish that sentence if you know what's good for you." warned Misty with a scowl, causing him to quickly shut his mouth.

After staring at the two oddly, Jenny says "Well...I'm pretty sure that things will be more controlled this time around - we're only going in for a couple of rounds and that's it. Nothing more than that."

"Only a couple of rounds, huh?" asked Lincoln, receiving a nod from Jenny in response. "...Alright, I guess it couldn't hurt..."

"Great! Let's go!"

-=O=-

By the time evening had come, the 'couple of rounds' Jenny had offered earlier had turned into well over forty of them, leaving Lincoln and his entourage completely sloshed out of their minds.

While Brock and Misty's Squirtle were hitting on some of the female patrons, Lincoln, Pikachu, Misty and Jenny were still sitting at the counter, knocking back another round of sake.

"Man, I tell ya what...ya really know how ta drink, ya know that?" complimented Jenny drunkenly as she pointed at Lincoln before getting out of her stool and sitting in his lap, straddling his waist. As she started to run a finger down his chest, she asks "So...ya ever been with a police officer before? I've got some...*hic*...really interesting uses fer handcuffs, ya know..." in a flirtatious-sounding voice.

Giving Jenny a bleary-eyed glare as she shoved the female officer out of the white-haired boy's lap, Misty points a shaky finger at her and mutters "'Ey, fuck off - I saw 'im first! If anyone's gonna be gettin' this..."

Suddenly, she grabs Lincoln's crotch, causing him to let out a squeak of delight at the sudden action.

"...It's gonna be me, not some...*hic*...floozy like you! Ya got that?"

"Like hell you will!" growled Jenny in response before fumbling through her pockets in order to find her badge. "I'm using my...my author..author...I'm a police officer, damn it! I'm getting the first crack at that, not you!"

"Go fuck yerself, ya teal-haired skank!"

As the two continued to glare at each other, Lincoln slurred "C'mon ya two...can't ya just get along? If it'll make ya both feel better...I'll take the two of ya on at the same time. Sharing is caring, right...?"

"At the same time...?" mumbled Jenny questioningly before giving him a crooked smile. "...Pretty bold ta be askin' us fer a threesome, arentcha?"

"Yeah...while I'm sure yer more than able ta handle something like that..." said Misty as she pointed at Jenny's body, causing her to glower at her in turn. "...do ya really think ya can handle that an' me at the same time?"

"I handled both you and Nurse Joy just fine back in Pewter, didn't I?" retorted Lincoln with a drunken smirk before wrapping his arms around both of their waists. "So how 'bout it, girls? Up for a menace...menage...a three-way?"

After staring at him for a few seconds, the two grinned widely before they started to lead the white-haired boy out of the bar and back to his room at the Pokemon Center, unaware that they had left Brock, Pikachu and Squirtle behind.

As for those three in particular? Well...

-=O=-

"'Ey, Squirtle...guess what...?" slurred Brock drunkenly as he gave the Water-Type a crooked smile. "Do ya wanna know why I love this bar?"

Looking equally as drunk, Squirtle quickly downs another shot of sake before asking "...Why's that?"

As if to answer the question (despite having no idea what Squirtle had just said), Brock holds up a finger and replies "The booze..." before draping an arm around the shoulders of a buxom brunette-haired woman who giggled drunkenly at the teenager's antics. "...an' the babes. That's why I love...*hic*...this place..."

"Good enough fer me." answered Squirtle with a grin before turning to face another woman who was sitting beside him. Gesturing towards his crotch, he asks "How's it goin', baby? Wanna see why they call me 'the smoothest ride in town'?"

In response, the woman slaps the Tiny Turtle Pokemon across the face before storming off.

Rubbing his cheek as he tries to get back into his seat, Squirtle mutters "Aw, fuck ya too, ya bitch. Yer then one missin' out..."

"Fuckin' moron..." muttered Pikachu before pointing at his cup while giving the bartender a bleary-eyed glance. "Gimme another one."

"...Don't you think you've had enough for one night?" asked the bartender, only to back away when the Electric-Type's cheeks start sparking angrily. "...On second thought, serving you a few more rounds couldn't hurt..."

"That's what I thought."

Just as the bartender started to pour him another cup of sake, he heard an angry voice shout "'Ey, what the fuck do ya think yer doin'? That's my girl yer hittin' on!"

Turning to see what was causing the commotion, he saw a burly-looking man lifting Brock off the floor by the front of his shirt while the woman from before was trying to convince him to put the Rock-Type specialist down.

As he started to wet himself in fright, Brock drunkenly stammers "C'mon, man..I didn't know she was yer girlfriend! Honest! She told me she was single!"

"C'mon man, leave 'im alone." said Squirtle as he staggered over to the man and tried to talk him down. "Let's just let this slide an' just enjoy our drinks in peace, huh?"

"Fuck off 'fore I decide ta make turtle soup outta you, ya little shitstain." growled the man threateningly.

"Hey, can ya shut the hell up so I can enjoy my drink in peace? If yer goin' to act like an asshole, go do it somewhere else!" snapped Pikachu irritably, causing the man to turn around to glare at him.

"What was that, ya little shit? Did ya just say somethin' ta me?"

"I said 'can ya shut the hell up so I can drink in peace?', ya prick. Did ya understand me that time?"

Narrowing his eyes, the man drops Brock on the floor and walks over to the Electric-Type. Upon reaching him, he looms over Pikachu and says "I don' know what ya just said, but ya better keep that mouth of yers shut before I shut it for ya." while cracking his knuckles threateningly.

Rolling his eyes, the Mouse Pokemon scoffed dismissively before turning his attention back to his drink - something that had pissed the man off further.

"'Ey, who do you think ya are, ignorin' me like that? Don't you know who I am?"

"No. And I really don't give a shit either. Fuck off."

Believing that the Electric-Type was insulting him, the man grabs the cup of sake and throws it, causing it to smash against a nearby wall.

After staring at the spot where his cup was sitting before, Pikachu mutters "...I was goin' ta drink that." before giving the man the most hate-filled glare he could muster as his cheeks started to spark wildly with electricity.

"Heh...that'll teach ya not ta..." taunted the man before Pikachu blasts him with a full-power Thundershock, heavily electrocuting him.

After holding the attack for a little bit longer, Pikachu finally cuts it off, causing the man to collapse onto the floor, covered in numerous electrical burns.

Upon seeing the man fall to the ground in a charred heap, several other patrons - most likely his friends - quickly get out of their seats while glaring at the yellow Pokemon.

"Ya shouldn't have done that..." threatened one of the dirty-looking men as he reaches into his pocket and takes out a switchblade. Flicking it open, he adds "We're gonna make ya pay for treatin' the boss like that."

Seeing this, Pikachu smirked before grabbing an empty sake bottle and smashing its bottom on the counter, creating an improvised weapon for himself to use. Waving the now-dangerous bottle about as he flipped them the bird with his other paw, he says "Ya want some of this? Well, come an' get it!"

Seeing that the Mouse Pokemon was taunting them, the drunks yell in anger before charging at him while Brock and Squirtle had hurried over to a nearby corner, wanting to get out of the way of the impending fight as soon as possible.

-=O=-

-Pokemon Center - Room #? (7:00 AM)-

As he opened his eyes that morning while groaning in discomfort at the raging hangover roaring through his head, Lincoln groans "Ugh...my head is killing me...what the hell did I do last night? All I remember is going to the bar with Officer Jenny and knocking back a few rounds, then we..."

Suddenly, a heavy blush appeared on his face as he suddenly recalled the 'events' that transpired the night before. To make his situation even more awkward, he saw both Officer Jenny and Misty, both completely naked, nuzzling deeply into his chest with content smiles on their faces as they slept.

"...Damn it, it happened again." muttered the white-haired boy with a groan. After staring at the two for what seemed like minutes, he lets out a sigh and mutters "Screw it." before deciding to go back to sleep.

-=O=-

-Back At The Bar (7:05 AM)-

"Ugh...I feel like hammered shit..." muttered Pikachu as he woke up, also feeling the effects of a hangover going through his head. After taking a few minutes to motivate himself to get up, he gives the bartender, who was staring at him with absolute terror in his eyes, a bleary-eyed glance. "...What time is it?"

"P...P-pardon?"

Miming the action of pointing at a wristwatch, Pikachu snaps "The time! What's the time?"

Realizing what the Electric-Type wanted, the bartender quickly checks his wristwatch and says "...Five minutes past seven, sir."

"Thanks..." muttered Pikachu before turning to leave the bar, ignoring the numerous men on the floor that were covered completely with bruises, numerous cuts and electrical burns.

As he left through the door, Squirtle and Brock - now completely sober and looking just as terrified as the bartender - remained huddled together in the corner, trembling in fear as memories of the carnage the Mouse Pokemon had wrought the night before continued to run through their minds.

-=O=-

AN: Chapter 25 is finished. Also, I finally hit 500 reviews! Go me! Of course, I couldn't have reached this milestone without all of you, so thanks!

I have to say that this chapter was kinda difficult to focus on - I've recently gotten into collecting Yu-Gi-Oh! cards (yes, I like something like that, believe it or not) and had taken to buying a couple of booster boxes in order to improve my collection of cards further. Needless to say, I managed to pull some okay stuff, but nothing really worth mentioning.

In any case, on to other things.

First of all, I'd like to announce the winner of the two challenges from the previous chapter - congratulations to 'duskrider' for correctly answering the quiz question to determine Charmander's nickname. Your choice of 'Firestorm' (which from I understand is named after the DC superhero) will be selected.

Also, congratulations to 'Mr. Haziq' for managing to guess the Mega Stone correctly. For those that don't know, the correct answer was Steelixite. Since you were able to correctly identify the stone, your Move Tutor and TM move selections for Lincoln's Pokemon will be applied to the story:

Move Tutor:
Volt Tackle - Pikachu (I had plans for this to be an Egg Move, but I'll replace it with something else...Thunderpunch, maybe?)
Throat Chop - Fearow
Icy Wind - Poliwag
Sky Attack - Pidgeotto
Drill Run - Beedrill (I was going to go with this one anyway, to be honest)
Giga Drain - Zubat
Earth Power - Sandshrew
Zen Headbutt - Clefable
Fire Pledge - Charmander
Grass Pledge - Bulbasaur

TM:
Charge Beam - Pikachu
Facade - Fearow
Hail - Poliwag
Work Up - Pidgeotto
Sludge Bomb - Beedrill
Thief - Zubat
Bulldoze - Sandshrew
Focus Blast - Clefable
Flame Charge - Charmander
Energy Ball - Bulbasaur

And as for what I've got in mind for Squirtle:
Egg Moves - Aqua Jet, Dragon Pulse
Move Tutor - Water Pledge (might as well finish the 'Pledge' trinity)
TM - Scald

Very interesting selections that should be fun to work with. And yes, the Steelixite will go to a certain fifteen year-old Trainer we all know. Figured I'd throw him a bone considering everything he's been through in both the story and the omakes.

Speaking of which, it's time for another quiz question to decide who gets to choose Squirtle's nickname. The question is this - How many Water-Type HMs are there and what moves do they teach?

As usual, the first one to get it right gets to choose Squirtle's nickname. Good luck to all of you.

Finally, here's what to expect in the next chapter - more Loud misfortunes, Professor Oak meets Ronnie and Clyde (and gives the second progress report), Jessie catches a new Pokemon for her team while James gets reunited with an old friend, some more stuff with Giselle, Joe and Rusty (with an appearance by Professor Tree) and some other stuff I plan on writing into it. Sounds like fun, right?

One more thing - apparently one of my readers had decided to start a wiki dedicated to this story and has asked if I could mention it in hopes of encouraging others to help work on it. So...yeah, it's there if you want to add on to it. Or don't. It's your call.

As always, I hope you enjoy the chapter and look forward to the next one.