Author's Note:
Here it is, this could easily be seen as filler, and honestly it kinda of is but I wanted a breather between the lake of rage and Ash's seventh Johto gym battle plus I feel like it's important for Ash's development after the traumatic events at the lake. I also have re-uploaded this chapter because I spelt Mamothswine wrong, as mentioned in several reviews, sorry about this, it was a genuine mistake. Not much else to say, just don't forget to vote in the poll, and with that, let's begin...
Chapter 65: Icy Pryce
Pikachu was currently stood on the carpeted floor.
Togetic was stood in front of him, asking what he should be doing in terms of training. They already had breakfast, as Serena took all of Ash's team and her own to Misty and Brock to eat with them while she brought the chocolate-eyed boy his own food. While his fellow teammates on hand opted to start training for the day, Pikachu made the choice to return to the room with Serena. He has to get his trainer out of this room somehow.
While brain storming ideas, Togetic appeared at the window, having flown up to them, so Pikachu obviously let him in. Turns out, he already completed his training that he had been working on and wanted something else to do. Normally Pikachu loves helping the little one with his training but today is different. He is so preoccupied with getting Ash out of bed that he couldn't think of what the happiness Pokémon could do next.
"I-I don't know, Togetic," he admitted, "why don't you ask Houndoom? I'm sure he has something for you to do."
"Okay," he replied.
The fairy flying type nodded in understanding before taking off. Doing a couple swirls around the room, he left a sort of sparkles in his trail before zooming out of the open window. It's hard turning the little guy away, but he shouldn't have to see Ash like he currently is, none of them should. Pikachu understands that his trainer is still in anguish after what happened to Gyarados but that's no-excuse for ignoring all his others friends in the process.
After the last few days, Pikachu knew he'd have to do something drastic to get his trainer out of bed. So he quickly put his plan into action and scurried across the floor before jumping up onto the bedside table. It wasn't anything special, just a plain brown colour, made out of wood. He turned towards the bed and wasn't happy with what he saw.
He crossed his arms in response and mentally shook his head at the sight. It's been close to a week since his trainers birthday and all the events that took place at the lake. Sure, it was tough for not only for Ash but also for himself and all their other teammates. He would hate to see how Lapras took the news, she seemed to look up to Gyarados as a sort of father figure and he was probably the only Pokémon not to make enemies or rivals.
But that isn't what has the electric mouse so upset right now. No, what has him upset is his trainer. Looking at the bed where he rests with his mate, he wasn't happy. Ash was facing the wall with his back to him. It was mid-morning already and his trainer was still in bed. Sure, Serena was as well but he saw her get up earlier and fetch some breakfast from the cafe, so she obviously was just trying to comfort him.
It's not hard to tell that he is depressed after what happened to Gyarados, but Pikachu has had enough. He misses the big guy as next as the next mon, but this is getting old for Pikachu. His trainer needs to Mon up already and stop this self-pity act.
"Hey Sere, you hear me?" Pikachu asked, with his mental monologue.
"Huh?" Serena replied, turning around to face him. She had one hand wrapped around Ash's torso, although it was clear he wasn't returning or embracing the small show of affection. Not that he's surprised, the raven-haired idiot hasn't even been cuddling her at night. It's like he's scared to get close to anyone, "Pikachu, since when do you call me Sere?"
"Doesn't matter," he dismissed, "just giving you a fair warning, you might want to move."
"Why is that?" she asked.
"Just trust me," he replied, sparking his cheeks for emphasis.
It took him a good four days to get his trainer to even contact Professor Oak, so he was aware of what happened to Gyarados. Of course, the Professor was informed of the transferred-ness thing of the sea-serpents trainer, but Ash still had to make sure he understood. Luckily, Pikachu was able to get him to transfer his team around so it would be his planned gym team. The current roster includes yours truly, Sandslash, why Ash is using Sandslash in an ice type gym, Pikachu will never know, Togetic, Croconaw, Houndoom and Heracross. As far as he knows, Sandslash, Togetic and Croconaw are the main ones but he bought Houndoom and Heracross in case its more than a three on three, as both have strong advantages over ice types. They have also all been keeping up their own training without Ash but that shouldn't be the case.
Tapping his foot, he twitched his eye as he watched Ash. It was clear that he wasn't still asleep, his breathing wasn't as peaceful as when he's asleep, his body wasn't slowly raising and lowering in a serene fashion. He was ignoring them but that wouldn't be the case soon enough. As soon as the cerulean-eyed girl was out of the blast zone, the little electric type made his move. Focusing his energy into his cheeks, he launched a powerful bolt of lightning across the room, striking his trainer.
A high powered screech could be heard as his trainer was pushed out of bed, ending his Thunderbolt. He waited for more of a response and he didn't have to wait long at all as his charred trainer shot up, from the opposite side of the bed. His bulging eyes battling against his scowling eyebrow as his nostrils quickly enlarged and shrunk as his controlled breaths became visible. Pikachu was sure that if he could see under his trainer's charred skin, he'd see a vein popping out of his neck.
"What was that for, Pikachu?!" Ash yelled.
"Got you out of bed," he replied, with a shrug.
"If that's all you wanted, you could've just asked!" Ash replied.
"And you could stop being a mardy little boy but hey, we both made mistakes," Pikachu replied.
"Mistakes!" Ash yelled, "you call shocking me, a mistake!"
"Your right," Pikachu nodded, "it was a carefully laid plan with excruciating detail and just a top secret mission for everyone involved, just to get your sorry butt up."
"Pikachu," Ash sighed, "you-"
"What?" he asked, cutting his trainer off, "don't understand? In case you didn't realise, Gyarados was all of our friend, not just yours. We all miss him, and what happened has hurt all of us. Togetic was in tears for hours when we found out Lance took him. But none of us took that as an excuse to spend our days wasting away in the sack."
Instead of getting some sort of response like a fight back, the z-marked boy's bulging eyes squeezed shut, ending his icy glare, as his enlarged nostrils became wrinkled and several prominent lines prominent lines between his eyebrows also appeared.
Pikachu hated for this to happen as he didn't want to upset his trainer, he just wanted to get him up. He has tried the nice tip-toey way of supporting him for the last week, but they can't keep doing this. They have to complete their gym battle, get the badge and make it too Blackthorn before the next contest. It won't be long until they also need to make their way to Grand Festival as well, so they can't afford for Ash to remain in this slump. Sometimes you need to break some eggs to make an omelette and if Pikachu has to be mean to get his trainer to react then so be it.
"Ash, come on," Serena stepped over to him, wrapping her arms around him, "why do we get ready and go and find Misty and Brock? I'm sure they would like to know we're alright. Maybe we could see what else the city has to offer."
The spikey-haired boy didn't seem to reply as the first tears of today escaped downed his cheeks. Pikachu hated having to upset him like this, but it was the only way to actually get him out of bed. If he didn't, then Ash would've spent it in this room again and they'd be in an even bigger rush to get everything done. A small smile appeared on the electric types face as Ash made his way to the bathroom, as Serena carried his folded up travelling clothes. Obviously, she exited as soon as she put them down, but it was good to see he wouldn't be spending the rest of today in this room... maybe they'll even get to have their gym battle today.
"Thank you for that, Pikachu," Serena thanked him mentally.
"No problem," he replied.
While not exactly his trainer, Serena is the next closest thing considering her relationship to his actual trainer and Pikachu will gladly help or even follow her instructions if the time ever called for it. He is glad that she didn't stand in his way of getting him out of bed, as he would've hated to shock her as well but after the last few days, she likely knew the regular method of consoling him wouldn't work. Still, it appeared his plan worked.
Pikachu trotted across the crispy cold ground. Fresh mountain air filled his nostrils, freezing the inside of his body as it became difficult to breath. His paws were getting slightly damp from the recently rained on floor. It's like that moment you first into a freezing cold pool and it attacks every part of your body. The noise was minimum, like only the rustling of wind through the lifeless winter trees or the scuttering of some local Ratatta or tweets from some local bird Pokémon.
After his trainer got dressed, they did as suggested and made their way down to their friends to see what the day had in store. Surprisingly, it was Sandslash who suggested they challenge the gym and luckily Ash was all too happy to agree. He isn't entirely sure what happened when Lance took Gyarados but these two seem a lot closer now.
While it's good that they are getting a move on, it's not entirely better. The tension between them is so thick Pikachu could cut through it with his Iron Tail if he wished too and he might be slightly to blame, considering how he got Ash out of bed. This is why he opted to walk on the floor right now. Ash has kept his talking to a minimum and its obvious everyone else was too scared to try and start a conversation in case they upset him. He better watch where he's walking, would hate to step on any of those egg shells, after all.
It didn't take them long to find the gym, all the tension made it feel like it took three times the actual time. Looking at the building, it wasn't really anything impressive, just a plain white dome shaped retangled with a red roof. Nothing to distinguish it from most of the other buildings except for the large gate which has the gym sign above it. After seeing so many other inventive gym designs, like the skyscraper in Violet city, or the volcano in Cinnabar island, this was more of a let-down than anything else.
Once reaching the gate, Pikachu watched as Ash pressed the button on the little dial pad to ask for entry permission. He could hear the buzzing from it, so it was definitely working, but no response came back and the gate remained shut.
"Hello," Ash spoke up, "I'm here for a gym battle. Is anyone there?"
While a small detail, Pikachu couldn't help but notice how much conviction his trainers voice lacked. It was more like he was asking, whereas all the other times he stood his ground and challenged the leader. This can't be good for the upcoming battle, of course several of his teammates, himself included, have enough convictions to stand on their own but some of the younger and friendlier ones, like Croconaw and Togetic would need all the support they can get. Especially, since he plans to use both of them here today.
"Hey there," a female voice, caught his attention.
Turning around, Pikachu noticed the others followed suit. He found an elder women stood just a few feet away, dressed in red overalls and a yellow striped bandana on her head, as long bushy brown hair escaped underneath. If Pikachu had to guess, he'd say she was some sort of farmer or something.
"Sorry for asking," she continued, a bright smile spread over her mouth. Although it didn't appear fake as her body was loose and she also had those lines to the side of her eyes, which most fake smilers try to avoid from overdoing it, "but are ya'll here for a gym battle?"
"Yes ma'am," Ash nodded.
"Sorry to say but our gym leader Pryce isn't in the gym right now," she replied, "you see he had a tough challenger yesterday and another one scheduled for first thing tomorrow morning. He took the day so both himself and his team could mentally prepare for them. It's that time of year, ya know. The league is in a few months and ya'll know how it is, trainers be rushing to get those last few badges. As a mountain town, out of the way, we tend to be one of the last visited for most trainers."
Pikachu had to agree with that logic, assuming most trainers start at the regional professor's lab down in New Bark Town, Mahogany and Blackthorn are the two furthest out of the way and being set on top of cold mountain's don't help. Only if a new trainer lived here would they likely visit Mahogany first.
"Oh, where are my manners," she continued, "my names Shelia and the gym leader is called Pryce. He's currently up in the mountains, meditating under the waterfall."
"Wow, that's impressive," Brock gasped, "to set aside time to strength one's mind."
"You said it," Shelia replied.
"Do you know when he will be free for my gym challenge?" Ash asked.
Although Pikachu could tell that yet again, he lacked conviction. Normally, he would ask to be taken straight to the gym leader and challenge them on the spot but right now he is happy to take a rain-check. Maybe a little more Thunderbolt encouragement will knock it out of him.
"I'll tell ya what, kid, why don't I take you too him right now," Shelia suggested.
"How cool is that," Brock replied.
"Please tell me that wasn't an ice pun," Misty deadpanned.
"Yoooo-whoooooo!" Shelia's voice echoed.
Turning back to where she once was stood, Pikachu noticed her far down the road. Even he would struggle to cover that distance without using Quick Attack or anything so how she did it is beyond him. After all, she didn't look to be the most athletic person around although looks can be deserving.
"Let's go! Step on it! Jump up! Kick it!" she cried as she jumped up and down.
As the group began to follow her, Pikachu decided he had enough of the cold damp floor and looked around for a suitable ride. If only Serena brought Sylveon back from the lab already, then he could ride on her back but alas, he is parted from her although considering Hitmontop being here, it's probably for the best. It was hard enough stopping him from attacking Togepi now Togetic, although after the fourth Thunderbolt, he got the message.
Anyway, focusing back to the topic at hand he looked around the four trainers. Ash is out of the question given his mood after the little wake up call, even if it worked in getting him out of bed, his trainer still has a mood on from it. Brock would be his next choice, if only because he always has a snack on hand but breakfast wasn't that long ago and so he doesn't exactly want a snack right now... maybe on the trip back down. That leaves the two girls and while he gets on with both of them, he has to give the edge to Serena, maybe it's her being Sylveon's trainer or his trainers mate but he just feels closer to her than he does to Misty.
With his mind made up, Pikachu quickened his pace and scurried up the cerulean-eyed girls body before resting on her shoulder. She notice-able wobbled, probably not use to having a Pokémon sat on her shoulder but she quickly regained her balance before picking him up in her hands.
"Pikachu," Serena giggled, "your paws and damp and cold."
"I think that has something to do with the weather," he replied mentally.
She chuckled, holding him with one arm which he stood on as she reached into a pocket with her other arm. She passed him a small cloth and he took the hint, using it to dry off his paws before handing it back. Once she had both arms free, she gripped him tightly. Snuggling into her embrace, he quickly realised why his trainer enjoys his cuddle time with her. Since he usually spends his travel time either on Ash's shoulder or with Sylveon, he forgot how soft his mates trainer was. Although it did raise a big question for the yellow guy, even if upset about Gyarados, why not cuddle with her at night? Especially since they have done that throughout Johto.
Focusing back towards the travels he watched as they were lead over some rocky terrain, it became very clear that this was a big challenge for them as by the time the finally caught up with Shelia, all of the humans were on the ground, out of breath. With the roar of water crashing like at a waterfall close by.
"Ah, nothing like a morning jog to get the old blood pumping," Shelia took a deep breath.
"Ow, my legs," Brock complained.
"My knees," Serena added
"My everything," Misty added.
Pikachu wasn't surprised as Shelia really put them to the test with keeping up with her and the terrain but what he was surprised by was that his own trainer hadn't made an offhand comment. Looking around, he couldn't see Ash with the other humans, so he looked back across the ground they just passed, only to see the spiky-haired boy still slowly trotting along. Normally he would take Shelia's energy as a challenge, but he couldn't care less, even if they didn't stop he probably wouldn't care if he got separated.
They patiently waited for him to catch up and by the time he reached them, all the other humans were back on their feet. Pikachu wished he could just shock his trainer out of this depression, like how he shocked him out of bed earlier, but something tells him it won't be that simple.
"It's not easy keeping up with me," Shelia laughed, probably trying to make Ash feel better about being so far behind, "if ya'll want Pryce, he's over yandere."
Following the direction that she was pointing; Pikachu saw an elderly man sat under the waterfall. While it was a relatively small one, especially compared to the one they saw back at Tohjo Falls, it was still impressive to see the man sat there without issue. He was clearly an older man, humans age weirdly but he'd guess at least ninety in people years and he had his shirt off, only shorts covering him as he sat beneath the natural creation.
With Ash walking forward to approach the man revealed as the gym leader, Shelia following shortly behind, Pikachu jumped from Serena's cuddly embrace and quickly caught up with them. He stood next to Ash but felt it wasn't right he took his spot on his shoulder given the mornings events.
"Hey Pryce, this kid wants a gym battle with ya," Shelia announced.
"Hi there, it's an honour to meet the gym leader from Mahogany town," Ash added, "Pryce. My name is Ash from Pallet and I'd like to challenge you for a Glacier badge."
The man's eyes popped open and it stared directly at Ash. While this could've been threatening, Pikachu has seen that same look from Aerodactyl. It is probably an old person thing, where they judge their opponent by their stance or some nonsense like that. After about a minute, the man's focus turned down to Pikachu, which did make him feel a little uneasy, but he stood his ground regardless. If this is some sort of test, he'll pass it for sure.
Almost instantly after looking at the electric type, the elderly man stood up, as if the water wasn't even present despite it crashing down on him. Slowly walking out of the splash zone, he grabbed a towel and began drying himself off as he approached them. While nothing new, the man's expression and those attack eyebrows did give him an intimidation factor that even Pikachu couldn't deny.
"You're the kid whose Gyarados went mad at the lake, correct?" he asked.
"Err, y-yes sir," Ash replied, his voice already breaking.
"And yet you still allow Pikachu to run free?" he continued, in a questioning tone.
"Hey!" Pikachu yelled, sparking his cheeks for emphasis. Why shouldn't he run free?
"Well Pikachu and I are really good buddies," Ash replied, in a hoarse voice.
While Pikachu wanted to make some sort of sarcastic comment to Ash about how good of a comeback that was, he couldn't. He knew how much Gyarados' departure hurt him and honestly, if it wasn't for the time restraint of everything, he might've been happy to give him another week if not more to deal with it. Instead, he sparked his cheeks in a defensive manner. He doesn't like this guy's attitude now that he's spoken.
"Ridiculous, a battle with you would be pointless," Pryce boomed.
"What?" Ash replied, clearly taken aback, "how could you possibly know that?"
"Simple," Pryce replied, as he fixed his yellow polo-shirt on, "I know you kid, you won the last Orange League. A pointless little competition to demonstrate the bond between a trainer and their Pokémon. Falkner and a few others informed us gym leaders that you was challenging the region and so I looked you up in preparation once I heard from Jasmine that you beat her, knowing you'll likely come here next."
"What I learnt was, you got into that competition because of your Gyarados. The same one who recently broke your friendship, went on a rampage and now resides on Lance's team despite not being a dragon type, which he specialises in. Even after that undeniable evidence that Pokémon and trainers are not meant to be friends. When you become emotionally involved with your Pokémon, it effects ones battle performance and leads to you making bad dumb decisions."
Pikachu got angry.
Those words offended even him, and looking at his trainer, they did much worst to Ash. He was clenching his fists so tight his knuckles turned ghost white, as his bottom lip quivered, only stopping with his teeth sunk into it. He blinked a few times and Pikachu could see tears beginning to form in his eyes.
"Your wrong!" Pikachu cried out, drawing the ice types specialists attention.
"Huh?" Pryce replied.
"Pikachu's right," Serena's voice appeared as she ran up behind them, "Pokémon and people need to understand each other and be good friends so they can work together and overcome any challenge in their way."
"Don't tell me your here for a battle as well, little girl," Pryce replied.
"What no," Serena replied, "I'm here to support Ash and you had no right to bring up what happened to Gyarados like that."
"Whether I did or didn't have a right to bring it up, is one's own personal opinion," Pryce replied, "but what I do know is, I have the right to refuse any challenge if I have good reason. Given his reaction today and the fact he needs you to fight his battles, he is clearly not ready for a gym battle either emotionally or of sound mind. Which is exactly the issue with becoming friends with Pokémon and that is why I am refusing this challenge request."
Pikachu could only watch in shock as the icy cold man walked past them, not even looking back. This wasn't like the other time they were refused a gym challenge by Erika because Pryce did make a good point. Not about being friends, that's just the grumpy old man side talking but Ash clearly wasn't thinking straight. It wasn't different to the debates he has had with Paul, where Ash always stood his ground but just now he froze in place and couldn't fight back.
However, no-one had chance to respond before Ash bolted off into the nearby forest. Pikachu heard Serena call out to him, but he didn't pay much attention as he took off in the same direction. Not wanting to lose his trainer after what Pryce said, he ensured he kept at an even speed and ran by his side. He'll have to wait for Ash to tire before he tried to talk him back to sense. Maybe he was wrong to push so hard for them to get a move on and get back to regular journey stuff. Pikachu just didn't want them to fall behind and miss either Sylveon's chance to compete in the Grand Festival or even their chance to compete in the silver conference.
Serena clutched her hand over her heart, briefly brushing past the blue ribbon around her neck. Part of her wanted to run after him, embrace him and tell him everything would be alright, but she knew him well enough to know that wouldn't help. Right now, he needs his friends and not their relationship. Her connection with him is completely different to the one he had with Gyarados and Pikachu is going along with his other Pokémon, they are more likely to get through to him in this situation.
"Please be safe, Ash," Serena thought to herself.
Part of her also wanted to give Pryce a good talking to if not worst but turning to face him, she found he already far down the path back to the town. Sighing, she hung her head as her short golden hair covered her face. Even if she was to chase after him, what could she say? He is set in stone with his beliefs and he has every right to refuse Ash's challenge because of the reasons he stated, and she can't deny that Ash's head isn't in the right place for a battle after what happened at the lake.
Moving her hair out of the way, she found her friends each taking a seat on some rocks, with Shelia joining them. Seeing a free, one, she joined them and there was an awkward silence for a small time before the older women turned her attention to the sky.
"He may not look it but once upon a time, Pryce was a happy go lucky guy," Shelia started, "he always loved to train and play with his Pokémon. Why, they were just about as close as family, maybe even closer."
Serena honestly doubted that, from what she just saw the ice type gym leader couldn't have been anywhere close to his Pokémon. It was as if his heart took his type specialist to seriously and had frozen over, stopping him from growing close to anyone.
"Woah, what happened?" Brock asked.
"Now everyone calls him Icy Pryce," Shelia sighed.
"Why is that?" Misty asked.
"He got that nickname a long time ago from treating his Pokémon so icy cold, and also because of his specialising in ice types," Shelia continued, "one memory sticks in my mind, the one where he was changed forever."
"What memory?" Brock asked.
"Yeah Shelia, tell us," Misty added.
Serena also wished to know but she kept her voice to herself, honestly she is more concerned about Ash, but she knew that Pikachu and his other Pokémon would keep him safe and they are in a better place to get him back to normal. Especially since he has Togetic with him, out of all their bonds, if one could match his bond with Gyarados, it's his happiness Pokémon. Of course, they aren't quite the same, Gyarados was a best friend while Togetic is his son but that doesn't matter. They will help him; they have to get her Ash back.
"Pryce use to have a Piloswine that he treated like a brother, until one day it just up and left," Shelia explained, "he raised it from a small egg that he got from his father and hatched when he was merely eight years old. Wherever you saw one, you was sure to see the other. Until one day it just up and left."
"That's sad," Brock replied.
"Poor guy," Misty added.
"Since then, Pryce can't bare at all to get close to anyone, Pokémon or person," Shelia continued, "it started when he was competing in the Orange League for the first, he was probably around seventeen, but the league hadn't been going for long. It was still on its first champion ever. Despite having a tough ride, using only ice types, he made it to the final Pokémon with only his Piloswine left. But he ended up facing an Arcanine, which as I'm sure ya'll know is a fire type."
"It was a tough battle and they didn't give up but in the end Piloswine had taken too much damage from his previous rounds. Arcanine launched a final Fire Blast and Pryce ran out to try and shield his brother. That was actually one of the inciting incidents that made them get safety Pokémon at league battles so they can disrupt attacks if they were to injure one of the trainers or even the audience. Pryce ended up with burns over most of his body and was bed-ridden for weeks, along with Piloswine. Then one night, when a strong blizzard was storming around, Piloswine left and hasn't been seen again."
Serena moved her hand up to wipe her eyes, realising the story had brought tears to her eyes. While she trusted Shelia, and believed that story, it was also incredibly sad to hear. No wonder Pryce has become so cold to those around him. She could only imagine what would happen if one of her own Pokémon left without notice or seeming reason, but that still doesn't change the fact it's not the same as Ash's experience with Gyarados!
Gyarados didn't leave by choice, he was taken. His memories were wiped, and he was too dangerous to be left in Ash's care. While she doesn't agree with it fully, she understands that Lance really didn't get much choice in the matter and had a tough decision to make. Regardless, it isn't the same situation that Pryce found himself in all those years ago and he had no right to talk down to Ash like it was.
With her mind made up, she jumped up to her feet. Now that she knows the reason why he is like he is; she knows what she has to do. She needs to find Ash, explain it to him and show him that Pryce doesn't understand his situation. It might not help him recover completely but hopefully it'll set him back on the right path to recovery.
"What's up little lady?" Shelia asked.
"We need to find Ash," she replied, "if he learns that story then he'll see that what Pryce said to him was rubbish."
"Now hold on a second there," Shelia replied.
"Sorry Shelia, I don't mean any disrespect," Serena apologised, "while I feel bad for Pryce, what he went through with Piloswine isn't the same as what Ash is going through with his Gyarados. He needs to know that, so he doesn't take what Pryce said to heart."
Running... Pikachu was really tired of running.
He was still next to Ash, who wasn't even looking where he was going. His trembling hands were wiping his red raw eyes as more tears streamed down his z-marked cheeks and undoubtly blurred his vison as a result. While he was never against showing his emotions, Pikachu has never seen Ash this upset. They Pryce guy has some nerve, if he didn't have to look after his trainer, he would've shocked that old man all the way to Shamouti and back again.
Looking ahead, Pikachu was immediately thankful that the wild Pokémon were happy to leave them alone. He couldn't really focus to see what sorts lived around these parts but if he had to guess, it seems like the some rock or ground types would do well with it being a mountain side but too cold for bugs, maybe some ice types as well but that really doesn't matter right now.
Realising he'll just have to keep running until Ash tires himself out, he looked forward once more only to find a bright light ahead. It was pretty obvious that the forest area was about to come to an end but that shouldn't be too big of a deal, he can't sense anyone in the immediate vicinity so there isn't any danger of them being attacked.
Clenching his own eyes as he leaped out of the brushes into the sun covered ground, it took him a second to properly adjust to the change in lighting. As he peered them back open, his heart stopped. A large rock was right in his face but that was the smallest concern right now. Not feeling anything under his feet, he looked down to see a long drop as they ran straight of the cliff side. In a panic, he turned to Ash who started yelling. His trainer was already falling, due to him being lighter, having quicker reactions and just being plain awesome, he had about half a moment before gravity began to push him down.
Acting fast, he dived at the wall and once hitting it, he jumped off with all his might.
Shooting down, he quickly landed on his trainer, who was screaming as he fell. Scurrying across his trainers body, Pikachu found himself at the belt of Pokeballs. He began to quickly start sniffing around until a strong sense of sap appeared. Not a moment later, he yanked the ball of and threw it down.
"Heracross!" Pikachu shouted, "Catch us!"
He heard a distinctive, 'huh' as it felt like they hit something. A constant buzzing appeared as Pikachu grabbed onto Ash's shirt and closed his eyes. There decent quickly slowed but they were by no-where being stopped entirely and Pikachu has had enough battles to know that this won't be a soft landing.
"Arg!" he heard Heracross cry out in pain.
It was accompanied by a grunt from Ash. Well, it wouldn't be a soft landing for them, he had the benefit of being on top of them both. He opened his eyes and quickly scurried off his trainer onto the cold ground, causing a shiver to travel through his body. Tentatively stepping around to get used to it, he looked forward, but the limited light made it tough to see.
He tapped his tail against the ground a couple of times before an electric current travelled through it. Creating a nice little light so he could see.
"Ah, better," he muttered, mostly to himself before using the light source to look at his trainer.
Heracross was lying on his back, struggling with Ash slumped over him. While Heracross is very strong, his wings not so much. They are good enough for him to fly by himself but not enough for passengers. Before anything could be said, Ash rolled of the single horn Pokémon and landed on the floor.
He was taking deep quick breaths, as he looked up, revealing his tear stained face. As he breathed, it became clear his voice was lost out of the panic from the fall as his frantic movements to shuffle over to Heracross only emphasised that point.
"T-t-thank you, H-H-Heracross," Ash stuttered.
"Err, no problem," Heracross replied, sitting himself up, clearly regaining his breath, "but I would like to know what happened?"
"Long story short," Pikachu took his cue, "we took a long scroll of a short cliff."
"I don't think now is a joking manner," Heracross replied, although his hesitation showed he wasn't confident. Pikachu smirked as despite having superior physical strength, the single horn Pokémon is still very timid and fears his own strength.
"I think it is," Pikachu retorted.
"Enough," Ash called out, "we need to find a way out of here, guys."
Pikachu looked up and while it was mostly dark, a small spot of light could be seen, illuminating the side of the cliff where they fell from. It was very high up and also no sort of ramp or incline against the rugged rough rocky wall.
"Well, we can't go that way," Pikachu pointed out, turning back to his human and teammate, "unless you got Pidgeot with you... you don't do you?"
Ash, barely illuminated by Pikachu's tail light, pulled out his little red device and the bright white screen better lit up his face. While he didn't want to say anything, Pikachu was glad that this drastic situation seemed to knock him out of his slump, especially after what Pryce said about Gyarados.
"I don't and I can't get a signal to transfer her or anyone else over either," Ash sighed, putting his device away.
Internally sighing, Pikachu looked around, using his illuminated tail as a way to properly look. Neither of the two pathways looked awfully promising but something else entirely caught his attention. A large round boulder which, while not impressive itself, had a faint whistling humming behind it.
"What is it, Pikachu?" Ash asked.
"There's some sort of pathway behind that bolder... probably," Pikachu replied, "and I bet it's easier to climb inside it rather than outside."
"Maybe..." Ash mused, "hey Heracross. Can you move it?"
The bug fighting type nodded before charging straight into the bolder. He landed next to it and began pushing. His body was tense as his eyes scrunched close to being completely shut. He was growling as the boulder wobbled. It was clearly heavy but slowly it was moving. After about a minute, Heracross slowly began to lower his head, lodging his horn under the rock he had slightly turned over. With one final cry, he pulled his head back and rolled the rock out of the way.
"I could've done," Pikachu pointed out, "if, I wasn't being a light source, that is."
Despite making a joke, Pikachu shivered as a powerful blast of cold air surrounded them. He instinctively shut his eyes as his tail slammed into the ground, the breeze wasn't strong enough to blow him over, but it was very cold. Shaking his head, he looked towards his trainer and squinted his eyes open.
"Come on out, Houndoom," Ash released his dark fire type.
"Good idea," he heard Ash respond before a blurry red light covered his vision.
"Hello," he heard Houndoom's voice, "oh, that's nice."
"It's cold," Pikachu grunted.
"My natural body heat keeps me above normal temp so for me it's refreshing,"
"I didn't ask," Pikachu grunted, "just use Flamethrower or something and stop this cold."
"I'm not Cyndaquil or Charmander, I don't have a constant external flame to heat you," Houndoom replied. Things went quite four a little bit and Pikachu struggled to look at what was happening. With great difficulty, he watched Houndoom pick up a stick and hand it to Ash. Following this, he used a small ember to set it on fire, "that's the best I can do."
"Thank you, Houndoom," Ash thanked.
While Houndoom did reply, Pikachu was past listening and quickly scurried up his trainer before resting on his trainers shoulder. Once secure, he rubbed his paws together before holding them towards the flaming stick, like some sort of camp fire. It wasn't great but it was a lot better.
"I guess we better see if this cave leads anywhere," Ash uttered.
"I'd like to stay out," Houndoom replied, "if we're to be attacked, best someone is out who isn't as effected by the cold."
Pikachu responded by sticking his tongue out.
"Good idea, Houndoom," Ash replied, "what about you Heracross?"
Pikachu turned to look at the single horn Pokémon only to see him curled up into a ball shivering. Guess he is taking it worse than Pikachu because he doesn't have the same sort of fur covering his body. Moments later, he disappeared into the Pokeball with a red flash.
Once securing that everything was alright, they set off with Houndoom walking right next to them. Quickly losing the little light they did have from the sun behind the cliff side, Pikachu reignited his tail with electricity. As it shone, everything lit up revealing the cave as covered in ice which reflected the light.
A swarm of Zubat and Golbat shot out from the darkness and through the entrance they just created. With nothing else left, they set off deeper into the icy tunnel.
Snubbull sniffed the ground.
It's been a long time since she set off on this journey from her rich captor to find that nice boy with a cap who started to train her. She couldn't tell you exactly how long, as she doesn't have a calendar or any real way to keep track. Not that she minds, as long as doesn't go back to that prison.
At first, it was tough for her as she was never taught any of the basic survival tools. Never having her birth-parents around, it was likely she was parented by a Ditto who was used to breed her specifically for sales. She hates that fact, the fact someone could breed a life just to play god and make them suffer at the hands of someone like the old hag.
But that doesn't matter now.
Continuing to sniff the ground, she caught a scent. At first it seemed vaguely familiar. It couldn't be, could it? Could it be that boy with the raven-hair? No, it isn't, but maybe it is. Urg, this is so tough. She has had to make up tracking scents as she's been in the wild but it's not as easy as it looks, and it doesn't help that all humans seem to smell the same.
Deciding it was best to try and follow it, she looked to her left where one way the scent was going followed. Unfortunately, all she saw was a cliff side. Knowing that wouldn't end well, she turned right. The scent also went this way into the woods, clearly the better option of the two.
With her mind made up, Snubbull began to wonder into the woods, following her nose. Anyway, where was she?
Right, well the journey since escaping has been tough. At first she had to wait out and avoid those big flashy blue lights of those mean humans in uniform who always returned her to that prison but after that she set off on her journey to find that boy.
Don't get the wrong idea, she isn't infatuated with him or anything. He was just the first human she met who actually gave her what she's wanted all her life, the chance to train, battle, get stronger. She knows Pokémon aren't meant to have relationships past that with humans and that is absolutely fine. Besides, if she remembers right, he was mating with that blonde female human with him and while she didn't get to spend time with her, she did seem nice as well.
Early on in her journey, she found a young Teddiursa and made friends with him. His father, an Ursaring let Snubbull stay in their cave for a couple nights and even taught her how to get food like berries and stuff. Before they left, she even battled Teddiursa, but he beat her. Not all that surprising since she only has two moves, but it was fun.
Part of her was tempted to stay but she knew it wouldn't work out. They aren't Snubbull or Granbull and wouldn't know how to help her get stronger and while they are nice, she has been stuck down in one place before and it's too close to her old prison. She was thankful that the father showed her how to hunt for and find food effectively and it has certainly helped her keep going but staying in one place isn't her.
As she continued to trek through the thick forest area, reminiscing about her adventure to find the black-haired boy, something caught her attention. A single slash mark on one of the trees. It wasn't especially deep or anything, but she is pretty sure she has seen this before. Ursaring pointed one out when teaching her about how to avoid entering a Beedrill nest. They tend to mark the trees around them in a circle as a warning sign.
Although these also looked different.
They were much thinner than the ones Ursaring showed her. So maybe they belong to another Pokémon who are marking their territory. Deciding to get out of there before stepping into someone else's home, she was surprised to see another tree with another similar mark.
This isn't good. She is pretty sure that tree didn't have a mark on it a second ago when she just passed it. A rustling of a bush behind caused her to jump and stare at the shrub. Two pairs of ominous yellow eyes stared at her.
Slowly backing up, she watched carefully as the owner of those eyes revealed itself. It was some sort of bipedal Pokémon with a primary blu-ish black fur covering its body, its once golden eyes had reverted to the normal colour now it's out of the shadows, as if the light made them brighten up when in darkness. Although the thing that caught Snubbull's attention most of all were long white claws on its hands. They were probably meant for hurting victims.
"Hi!" a female voice appeared out of the Pokémon. The once ominous stare it gave was gone and in its place was a bright smile although that did reveal a pair of fangs within its teeth. "I'm Sneasel, are you knew? I've never seen you before so you must be new."
"I-I'm Snubbull," she coughed out.
"Hi Snubbull," Sneasel replied, "oh no, you look scared. Did I scare you? I'm sorry."
"Why was you doing all that stuff?" Snubbull asked, feeling at ease now that she met the shadowy figure.
"Because my parents don't like humans, they say they'll catch me and take me away," Sneasel replied, "and a human boy ran through here not long ago. I wanted to see if you'd run off after him because if so then you'd be his Pokémon but since you didn't, you must be wild."
"Well," Snubbull replied, "I'm more between trainers at the minute."
"You are? So does that mean you're not staying?" Sneasel asked, "aww. I thought I'd get a new friend."
"Well I don't need to go straight away," Snubbull replied.
Honestly, after that fright she'd prefer if she could just rest. It made her lose that scent she was following but there's no guarantee it was the boys anyway and if her encounter with Teddiursa and Ursaring taught her anything, maybe another wild teacher is exactly what she needs to better find this boy.
"Yay!" Sneasel cheered. Next thing Snubbull knew, she was being dragged along by this energetic Pokémon who just scared her. It's almost amusing how different this Sneasel can be when you get to see her personality and not just her scaring from the shadows.
Pikachu was not having a good day.
No point in going over what happened up to this point, as you should already know why but since exploring this icy cave, while not having an issue with seeing where they were going thanks to the light reflecting of the ice, it was still very cold.
On their journey, they saw many Pokémon of the ice type variety but none of them picked a fight. Honestly, Pikachu wasn't sure if it's because Houndoom scared them off or if they are just peaceful by nature. Although it would've been nice if they gave them a direction to two, with all these crossing paths. At least the wind that hit them at the entrance had long since passed so they could properly watch as they got lost in this maze.
As they continued though the frozen cavern, a bright light appeared at the end of the current corridor they found themselves travelling down. It was so bright that it was difficult to make anything out, but Pikachu knew what that lightly meant.
"I think that's an exit," Houndoom spoke up.
"I thought that too," Pikachu muttered.
Instead of getting a verbal response from Ash, he simply nodded before continuing onwards. Knowing that his tail-light isn't needed right now, he turned it off because why should he waste his energy. Using his tail to shield his eyes as they entered the bright room it took a second for them to adjust.
Once they did, Pikachu fully took in the room. It was a sort of crystal palace, of course the crystals being formed from ice still. Looking towards the ceiling, he saw a sort of dome but wide open allowing the sun to shine down on them. Blinking, he turned back to the main room and saw several Pokémon around. A few Sneasel and Delibird's but the main one was a large brown fuzzy thing that he hasn't seen before. Although smaller versions, probably its pre-evolutions, were also running around.
"You, Houndoom, I believe," the brown beast addressed the dark dog, "what are you and I presume your trainer doing here?"
"Aww, I was hoping you'd say," Pikachu replied before clearing his throat by coughing into a scrunched up paw, "You shall not pass!"
"You watch too many movies," Houndoom muttered.
"Come on, you know he's got that vibe," Pikachu replied.
"I hate to interrupt, but I asked you a question," the beast boomed, "and in case it escaped you, you are intruding on my home."
"I'm sorry, sir," Houndoom replied, "we meant no disrespect. It's just my trainer fell down a cliff and we were hoping this cave would lead us out and back to civilisation, sorry for intruding."
"Mamothswine, I'm a Mamothswine," the brown beast replied, "and you're in luck, there is a way out of this cave. I'll be glad to show your trainer out."
"Not me?" Houndoom asked, crouching though as if ready to pounce.
"Please to not threaten us, a battle here would only hurt my family," Mamothswine replied, "understand that the icy path up is difficult for most to climb. Your trainer would have to ride on my back so I could carry him out. I am not able to carry you both, so to avoid making too trips, it would be best for you to travel in your Pokeball."
"Not many wild Pokémon would trust a human to give them a ride," Houndoom noted, "especially one who has been isolated."
"Believe it or not I once too had a trainer, many years ago," Mamothswine replied, "we were like brothers. I know not all humans are bad and I can tell your trainer is still a child himself. I appreciate your protectiveness but the sooner he leaves, the sooner my friends will feel secure. I just want what's best for everyone. They already resealed your previous entrance so now that is your only exit... unless you are able to fly out of the ceiling here."
"Very well, you make a good point," Houndoom stood back up, loosening up as much as he does loosen up, "but know, the yellow one on his shoulder doesn't use a Pokeball and so if you try anything, you'll need to go through him first."
"Hehehe, I appreciate your attempts to protect your trainer," Mamothswine chuckled, "but I highly doubt that Pikachu could-"
"Hey!" Pikachu interjected.
"No offence," Mamothswine apologised, "but I am a fully evolved ground type, even if not having a proper battle in a few decades, I still have some moves. The outcome would be obvious."
"I wouldn't underestimate him, if I was you," Houndoom replied, "I may not like him but when push comes to shove I have seen him overcome many obstacles I would doubt another Pikachu would. And if nothing else, his jokes would be enough to make anyone give up a battle."
Before another word could be uttered, Houndoom disappeared in a red light. Pikachu noticed his trainer slowly approaching the brown beast. The thick tension filled atmosphere was slowly surrounding them once more. Guess now that they have a way back, the reality of the day was starting to sink in. While glad that they won't have to spend the night in this icy tundra, a little long with his old trainer would've been nice.
As they reached the brown beast, Mamothswine kneeled down and Ash began climbing up onto his back. Despite him grabbing onto the beasts fur, Mamothswine didn't even flinch as they reached the top and settled down. Once secure on his back, the ice ground type stood up and began the trek across the icy floor although he wasn't even the slightest bit off balance. Although he wished he would move quicker than this. It took a couple of minutes until they left that main hall and were now another corridor which felt a lot smaller with Mamothswine there.
"So Pikachu," Mamothswine spoke up, "we have a bit of a trek on us, tell me about your trainer... he interests me."
"Well he's from Kanto, but he isn't really himself at the minute," Pikachu replied, "but why not ask him yourself. He can understand you."
"Is that so?" Mamothswine asked, "how amusing?"
"You seem a lot less surprised then I was expecting," Pikachu admitted.
"I am very old, young one, I have many decades on both you and your trainer," Mamothswine replied, "while a human understanding Pokémon is knew, I have heard and seen much crazier things before."
"Fair enough," Pikachu admitted.
"So, human, what is your name?" Mamothswine asked, "it'll be nice to have a proper thing to call you."
"Ash," he muttered, "Ash Ketchum."
"Well Ash," Mamothswine replied, "what's the matter? I may not be psychic type, but I can clearly see something is bothering you."
"You wouldn't understand," he quickly brushed it off.
"Try me," Mamothswine insisted.
"I-" Ash held the word for a while, "I lost someone. Someone close to me recently. Because of bad people, really bad people and I've had the chance to stop them before, but I failed so my friend paid for that failure. If I had done something, if I had been stronger and stopped them permanently, then he would still be here."
"This friend," Mamothswine replied, "did they perish?"
"As good as," Pikachu spoke up, "they lived but they lost all memories. Reverted back to their primal form. Everything that made them, them, is gone and can't be returned."
"That is alien to me, I admit," Mamothswine replied, "although not entirely... let me tell you a story, Ash."
"A story?" Ash replied.
"Correct," Mamothswine replied, "like I told your Houndoom, I had a trainer many years ago and we were as close as you could possibly imagine. Then one day we entered a tournament and it came down to a final battle. It was me and my trainer against a champion and their Arcanine. It was tough and I lost but not without giving them a good fight. Anyway, their final move was Fire Blast and my trainer attempted to cover me from the blast. We were both badly injured in the event.
"One night, a few weeks later. We were in his cabin and I could hear his cries of pain. It hurt to hear him like that, and a blizzard was going on outside so I decided that I would go out and find some herbs to help heal him. I had done it before, and the blizzard ensured his friend wouldn't have been able to visit, so it seemed like the smart choice in the moment. Anyway, I found the herbs easily but as I dug them up, I was knocked off the cliff similar to yourself and wondered into this very cave."
"When I arrived I found many of the wild Pokémon that call this home under siege. A group of three Weavile had claimed it as their own and was stealing the food source without sharing so many of the young and elderly who couldn't defend themselves began to starve. While I wished to return to my trainer, I couldn't just let this injustice pass, so I challenged them to a battle. It was tough but in the end I evolved and chased them out."
"The Pokémon here welcomed me into their family and were grateful," Mamothswine replied.
"So you stayed here and abandoned your trainer?" Ash asked.
"No, of course not, well not intentionally anyway," Mamothswine replied, "you see. The exit I am taking you too, in my evolved state, I am too large to pass through it. Once we reach the top of this incline, I'll need to leave you."
"Mamothswine," Pikachu spoke up, "what was your trainer's name?"
"His name? His name was Pryce, after all these years I don't know if he is even still alive, but I would give anything to see him again," Mamothswine replied, "and he was so much more than just a trainer. He was a brother who hatched me from an egg. The first person I ever laid my eyes on in this life."
"But alas, it was never meant to be. He probably moved on to have a happy life and become a successful trainer. I also remember he had a female friend who I presumed he would end up mating with at some point. Not that life in this cave was bad, it's just... the path not travelled down, I suppose."
"I'd think again, bud," Pikachu replied, "we met your trainer and while he made it as a local gym leader. He didn't travel or get a mate. He's become a cold bitter man and was the reason we ended up down here. He made a point to say that Pokémon are untrustworthy and friendship between trainers and their Pokémon were wrong. It's what upset Ash in the first place and why we ran off a cliff... that last part sounded better in my head, to be honest."
"Hehehe, your humour amuses me, Pikachu," Mamothswine chuckled, "but I apologise if that's the case. I fear my sudden disappearance may have caused this change in him and frozen his tracks on his own travels. I know it's a pipe dream, but I wish I could meet him again, and mend this mess you've been caught up in."
"Thank you, Mamothswine," Ash replied.
Pikachu wanted to reply again but he turned to his trainer to see a smile on his face. A small one admittedly and a small tear could be seen sparking in his eye, but it was still a smile. It was easy to that he had found something and Pikachu knew that hearing Mamothswine's story reminded him that no-matter how far friends part, the bond they once shared will be ever present in memories and regardless of where Gyarados is now... or something like that, you know Pikachu isn't into all the sappy stuff, regardless of what Sylveon says contradictory to it.
Either way, it's nice to see his trainer starting to feel a little bit better, at least.
Most of the rest of the journey was travelled in silence but it was a more comfortable silence which Pikachu didn't mind at all. Despite his large size, Mamothswine was proving to be very wise, almost like a teacher. While he still hates Pryce for what he said about Gyarados, Pikachu has to admit that what he learnt about him does explain why his views have been coloured that particular way.
If only there was a way for them to reunite the two. Not only would it be nice to do for Mamothswine after how he helped them, but it might even be enough to prove to Pryce that his views are wrong. The old grouch, he may not deserve to be reunited but it's what he needs.
"And this is where my journey ends," Mamothswine informed, "if you continue down this path, you'll find the entrance to the cave and a path which should lead back to the town. I am sorry about what my trainer said to you, but no that those are his true feelings, not really. His views were clouded by my sudden disappearance."
"Thank you, Mamothswine," Ash replied as he climbed down, "you helped me more then you could ever know."
"It was my pleasure," Mamothswine replied.
"I just wish I could help reunite you with Pryce," Ash replied.
"I appreciate that, Ash, but some things weren't meant to be," Mamothswine replied.
"What if we brought him to the cave?" Ash suggested.
"I doubt he would come, based on what you told me he believes happened," Mamothswine replied.
A spark shot through Pikachu's mind as his eye burst open and both his ears and tail shot up. Jumping down, he walked away so he could view both the brown beast and his trainer at once. Both were looking down at him with curiosity.
"I've got it!" Pikachu perked up.
"Got what?" Mamothswine asked.
"Just wait here you big lug," Pikachu replied, turning around to shoot off, "and if you don't mind, keep an eye on my trainer. I don't want him walking off another cliff."
Not waiting for another response, he shot off through the cave but not at his normal walking speed, no. It was with a speedy Quick Attack. Travelling at this speed for a long period of time isn't easy but he needs to be as fast as possible before the sun sets.
Quickly zooming out of the cave he found the forest they previous travelled through. Not deterring of the path, he soon heard the sound of running water. Knowing that it was likely the same source from the waterfall where they met Pryce, he located the stream and began running up stream. As he did, he just hoped to Mew that his human friends and that women who knows the grouch was still there. Luck seemed to be on his side as he soon spotted the group walking down the side of the stream.
"Hey! Guys!" he shouted, even though he knew they wouldn't hear anything other than 'Pikapi!'
"Huh?" the women questioned, "isn't that your friends Pikachu?"
"It is," Misty replied.
"What's the matter Pikachu?" Serena asked, as he came to a stop in front of them, "is Ash alright?"
"He's fine, I left him with a babysitter," Pikachu replied, with a mental message, "but more importantly, I need that women to follow me."
"A babysitter?" she repeated, "and what do you want Shelia for?"
"Okay, it's been a long day so try to keep up," Pikachu replied, "Ash ran off a cliff and we spent the day exploring a frozen cave. Found brother bear who showed us out, who happens to be the evolved Pokémon who apparently abandoned Scrooge. I need Mary Berry to come and see him so she can convince Scrooge to come and then I can rub it in his face... comprende?"
"I - think so," Serena replied.
"Ya'll alright, girly?" Shelia asked, "Pikachu hasn't even said anything and on top of that, no-one can understand Pokémon."
"Well, err, okay. I'm a psychic, Pikachu was talking to me in my head," Serena explained.
"Well I'll be," Shelia laughed, "so what did the little fella say?"
"He said that he wants to show you something," Serena replied, "I think your gonna like it."
"Well then, what're we wait'n for?" she asked, "lead the way, little fella."
Pikachu nodded in her direction to show that he understood what she said before turning around running back down the path he just travelled down. Not using his Quick Attack this time so that he didn't lose these humans, they covered the ground at an admittedly slower pace, but it wasn't long before making it into the cave. Some of them complained about the cold but honestly, Pikachu didn't pay them much attention.
Once reaching his trainer and the brown beast once more, Pikachu realised the sun was close to setting so they didn't have as much light as before despite being near the exit, so he shook his tail before running a current through it, creating a new light source.
"Hey guys, glad to see you again," Ash greeted, "I want you to meet Mamothswine. You're not gonna believe it but this use to be Pryce's Pokémon and was the reason for his current views on the relationship between people and Pokémon."
"Oh my," Shelia gasped, "Piloswine, or well Mamothswine. Is it really you? It's me, Shelia. Do ya'll remember?"
"I do," he smiled, nodding, "it's good to see you again."
"You see, Shelia," Ash spoke up, "when Pryce was burnt in a battle with an Arcanine, Mamothswine, or well Piloswine back then, came to get some herbs to help him heal but ended up falling off a cliff and getting stuck in here. He evolved in a battle with a group of Weavile and is too big to leave the cave now."
"Ya'll been stuck down here all this time?" Shelia asked, to which Mamothswine nodded again.
"All he really wants is too see Pryce again," Ash explained, "do you think you could convince him to come down here?"
"Not in tar-nation could I do that," Shelia replied, "but I got something much better."
She slide her backpack off her back and kneeled down before searching through it. Realising she'd have trouble seeing, Pikachu walked closer so his tail-light could provide as much coverage for her as possible. After a few moments, she pulled out an old looking Pokeball.
"Is that?" Misty asked.
"The one in the same, little lady," Shelia smiled, "Pryce wanted to throw it out years ago but I kept it because I just knew Piloswine would return. And here he is."
She held the ball out and in a flash of light, Mamothswine disappeared back into the device. The old women smiled as she looked down at the device in her hand, quickly using a sleeve to dry her eyes. It took a minute or two for her to compose herself but once she did, they set off out of the cave on the way to find that icy old so Pikachu could prove him wrong after all the trouble he put them through.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...