Welcome, Trainers, to Champion Island.
Do Pallet proud!
Let the battle begin!
We gotta get you two in gear for the big tournament coming up.
What made you select all of us?
When the moment arrives when the world needs a champion…..
Who's Tobias?
Hitmontop is unable to battle!
Rumor has it you disappeared for a while after the Sinnoh League.
Where'd you go?
I know you don't like to talk about home…..
Darkrai wins!
Oh, that's cute. He thinks we're Team Magma.
Last time I checked, Team Flare resided in the Kalos Region.
They call me the Iron-Masked Marauder.
Unown, the Symbol Pokemon.
Are you out of your mind?
*Dialga roar*
After an unknown amount of time had passed and the voices stopped, I began to regain consciousness as my eyes began to open. As I did so, I took a look around at my surroundings. I was lying on my back on a bed in what looked like a hospital room. To my right was a large window with a good view of the general plaza of the island, now heavily damaged from the hordes of rampaging Pokemon. The sun was at its absolute highest in the sky, telling me that it was around noonish, as the sunlight lit up the entire room despite none of the lights being on.
In front of the window was a long table, upon which were three large, homemade bouquets of flowers. While I wasn't much of a flower person, seeing the assortments of beautifully colored flowers placed on the table for the purposes of wishing me a quick recovery was enough to put a smile on my face. I prepare to sit up, but stop upon noticing two things as I looked down. The first was that my left arm was in a sling, limiting my mobility. This wouldn't be a problem, except for the other thing I noticed. Someone was sleeping on my lap, specifically my Watchog.
"There you are", I whispered to myself upon remembering its absence during our battle with Dialga. It was around this time I noticed that in the right corner by the window, my room's TV was turned on. Not wanting to disturb my sleeping Pokemon, I decide to stay put for a little while as I turned my attention to the TV.
Onscreen was what looked like a Pokemon Contest, as the Pokemon were on a large stage in front of a huge audience dancing about as they performed. However, there were a total of five Pokemon in total, and not only were they dancing, but their Trainer was as well. After a quick look at her short, red hair, and her light green attire, the same attire she wore during her Grand Festival victory, I recognized the Trainer immediately. She was Zoey, a Coordinator from Snowpoint City, and the inspiration behind my unorthodox Shadow Claw maneuver that I taught my Liepard.
"Now, Leafeon, use Double Team", commanded Zoey as she ballroom danced in the arms of her Gallade.
"Lea-Leeeee", purred Leafeon as it multiplied itself into a ring around Zoey, Gallade, and a Western Gastrodon, who was also dancing nearby. Leafeon and its copies then proceeded to run around in a circle around Zoey and the other Pokemon.
"And now for the big finish! Leafeon and Gallade, use Magical Leaf! Gastrodon, use Hidden Power", she commanded as Gallade dipped her.
"Gaaaaaaaaaaa-Llade", exclaimed Gallade as he used his free arm to summon several razor-sharp leaves coated in a magical energy and fire them in multiple different directions overhead.
"Leeeeeeeeeeeeafeon", exclaimed Leafeon as it and its clones stopped in their tracks and followed Gallade's lead, firing more magical leaves above Zoey and Gallade in the process.
"Gaaaaaaaaastrodon", squealed Gastrodon as it summoned several white energy orbs above its head at the barrage of magical leaves. Upon the three attacks colliding, the white orbs formed a ring around the leaves, as the leaves bounced around off of each the orbs, as well as each other. The fact that the chaos from those three attacks was contained the way they were was a true testament to how well Zoey trained her Pokemon.
"Mismagius, use Shock Wave! And Glameow, use Thunderbolt", continued Zoey, still suspended in Gallade's grasp. The camera then pans up to reveal that floating above all the chaos was Glameow riding on Mismagius' back.
"Gla-Gla", shrieked Glameow as electricity surged from its fur.
"Mis-Maaaaaaaaagius", said Mismagius calmly as she followed Glameow's lead as blue electricity surged from her body. Both Pokemon fired their electrical attacks down at the Hidden Power and Magical Leaf attacks, created a super-charged light show as the leaves continued to bounce around in the ring.
"Let's wrap this up! Glameow, Gastrodon, you know what to do", commanded Zoey as Gallade picked her up from the dip.
"Gaaaaaaaaastroooooooooo-Don", exclaimed Gastrodon as it stretched its long neck and fired a Blizzard attack from its mouth up towards Mismagius.
"Glaaa", purred Glameow as it launched itself from Mismagius' back down towards the oncoming Blizzard. Glameow then proceeded to cloak its two front paws in dark energy as it prepared to execute its Shadow Claw attack, immediately followed by reaching its two cloaked paws in front of it and spinning as it barreled into the Blizzard like a torpedo. Once contact was made, as expected, Glameow's Shadow Claw attack was given a boost, just as my Liepard's was when combined with Chad's Castform's Powder Snow attack. "Gla-Glaaaaaaaaaaa", shrieked Glameow as it struck the ring of chaos with its Double Shadow Claw attack, which resulted in an explosion so huge that even Mismagius was engulfed in it. In response, the crowd all collectively gasped, and the stadium fell silent.
"Dear me", gasped a man with a heavy accent from stage left as he ran from behind the curtain to the side of the explosion. He was wearing a collared, trench coat-like suit with a large top hat on his head, white gloves, and he held a staff-like cane in his hand. His attire had an interesting gimmick to it, as the left half of his hat, the bill of his hat, the right side of his coat (whose coat tail was only half as long as the other for some reason), his left pant leg, and his right shoe, were blue, while the respective other "halves" of his attire were black. He also wore a bolo tie around his neck, and hanging from it was a comically large key the size of a shoe. He was also accompanied by what looked like a floating keyring, which I soon discovered was some kind of Pokemon upon seeing it move about and speak freely. "Cut the cameras", commanded the man as he yelled at the camera.
"Ki", exclaimed the tiny Pokemon as it poked the man's shoulder. "Klefki-Klef", it continued as it pointed onto the stage after grabbing the man's attention. The camera then pans back to the center of the stage just as the cloud of smoke began to clear.
Once it did, the cloud revealed Zoey standing on her Gallade's left as he held her right hand with his left hand. To Zoey's left was Glameow in a seated position, as Leafeon was to Gallade's right, also in a seated position. Floating above and slightly behind Zoey and Gallade was Mismagius, and standing in front of them was Gastrodon.
"Tada", exclaimed Zoey as she and Gallade extended their free arms in a victory pose, all while the other cheered simultaneously. As Zoey and her Pokemon posed and smiled for their audience, indicating that none of them were harmed, the air around the six of them sparkled around them in the colors green, blue, and purple, as if it was raining glitter around them. In response to their suspenseful performance coming to an end, the crowd roared in excitement. Having watched several of Zoey's performances in the past, I was impressed, but not at all surprised.
"Magnifique", exclaimed the man as he and his Pokemon ran towards center stage. "Ladies and gentlemen, I give you, the amazing Miss Zoey", he continued as the crowd continued to cheer.
"Not bad at all", I muttered to myself.
"This is getting ridiculous", exclaimed a familiar voice from outside my room and down the hall.
"Wa", groaned Watchog as it began to wake up in my lap.
"Shhhhh. Hush, Watchog", I said to my Pokemon as I lied back down and pretended to be asleep.
"Will you please keep your voice down", scolded Professor Oak just before he opened the door to my room as I was secretly peeking through my eyelids. The professor was arguing with Theo. "Rojan needs his rest", continued the professor as he closed the door.
"He's been resting now for three days", retorted Theo.
"Three days", I muttered to myself as I listened to the two of them argue.
"Gentlemen, please", pleaded a new third voice.
"Doctor Proctor", began the professor.
"Relax, Rojan is doing fine—", began the doctor before being interrupted by Theo.
"Three days-worth of bedrest says otherwise", he muttered. Doctor Proctor continued with his statement despite Theo's remark.
"But, I must ask that you take this little discussion of yours elsewhere. Preferably to Mr. Stone's office. I'm on my way there now, actually."
"Very well."
"Whatever." The sound of footsteps fading told me that the doctor was leading the two of them down the hall away from my room.
"Not without me you're not", I mutter to myself as I struggle to get out of bed.
"Watch-Watchog", said my Pokemon worriedly.
"Don't worry", I groaned through my wince as I moved my injured arm the wrong way. "I promise, I'm okay. It'll take more than a busted arm to keep me down."
"Watchog."
"Now come on. Let's go see what the fuss is all about", I continued as I slipped on the slippers that were provided for me and quietly opened the door to my room. I peaked down the hallway to see that while I could still hear distant arguing, I saw nobody walking in my direction. "Looks like the coast is clear", I whispered.
"Watchog-Watch", whispered Watchog.
"Stay close, and stay quiet."
"Watchog", replied my Pokemon as we began sneaking quietly down the hallway towards the distant voices. After a couple of minutes of this, Watchog and I found ourselves outside of what I assume was Steven Stone's office, as I could hear the voices of Professor Oak, Theo, and Doctor Proctor through the closed door, arguing with various members of the Champion Island staff.
"They were here. Steven, they were here", said a new voice I didn't recognize as he slammed his fist on a desk.
"We're very much aware of that. Thank you, Sycamore", said Professor Ivy sarcastically.
"Fantastic, you're aware. Now, are we going to do something about it? Or should we continue our course and ignore what's right in front of us?"
"Professor Sycamore, please compose yourself", said Professor Rowan.
"I just spoke with Lance", began Drake. "Team Magma are denying any claims of association with this so-called Team Flare or Neo Flare or whatever they're calling themselves. And without any evidence, the G-Men don't have anything to go off of."
"I'm meeting with Diantha in Anistar City soon. Perhaps she or Olympia will have some insight about these thugs", said Cynthia.
"And what're we supposed to do in the meantime", asked a now slightly hysterical Professor Sycamore. "We thought we were rid of Team Flare, but we were wrong. We were wrong, Steven. Team Flare is back and they're worse than before. Former Team Rocket alumni, Legendary Pokemon popping up left and right, tampering with Mega Evolution, if we don't do something soon, what happened in Kalos will happen everywhere all over again."
"That's all well and good, but what about my championship crown", asked an impatient Theo.
"I've already told you, your battle will have to wait", said Professor Oak.
"I've been waiting. I've spent three days on this blasted island waiting, and I grow tired of it."
"Your impatience is of no concern to me", retorted Professor Oak. "The simple fact is that your opponent has been injured, so until he recovers you cannot battle him. And to suggest his disqualification is simply out of the question." Theo growled a little in response to the professor's harsh words. "And in any case, there are more pressing matters than a mere Pokemon battle."
"You mean like the Grand Prix", asked Professor Elm.
"Absolutely not", exclaimed Nurse Joy. "You cannot go through with this tournament of yours. Not after everything that's happened here."
"Now now, let's all be reasonable here", said another new voice.
"I am being reasonable, Mr. Vitzo."
"Look, Ma'am. It's been a rough couple of days, you're tired, you're not thinking clearly—", he began to try and justify.
"My thinking is perfectly clear. It's you who needs to face reality."
"Nurse Joy is right", began Doctor Proctor. "This whole thing has gotten way out of hand, and it doesn't take a genius to know that things will only get worse, especially given the invitation you've provided."
"What invitation", asked Professor Birch.
"I'm just saying, you've spent a great deal of time and money on this little tournament of yours. And in doing so you've gathered a great many important people on this island all at the same time, so when you think about it, it's no wonder this island became a target for criminal activity. And let's not forget, this tournament is merely a preview of an even bigger tournament, so you can imagine how bad that'll turn out at this rate."
"I agree", began Officer Jenny. "Many people and Pokemon were seriously hurt as the result of this Champion Island tournament. The World Battling Grand Prix can't be broadcast, let alone held, if we can't ensure the safety of the public."
"But what about our contract? This Beacon of yours is supposed to encourage Trainers to compete. We need to keep going. We have too much riding on this tournament", pleaded Vitzo.
"Not everything is about money, Vitzo", scolded Professor Birch.
"But he does have a point", said Drake. "Steven, we Champions started this tournament, as well as the Grand Prix in part to combat the return of forces such as this.
"We knew this might happen. We knew the risks this tournament would bring", added Cynthia.
"But do the participants know", asked Nurse Joy. "Do the Trainers know what they're getting themselves into?"
"So what if we didn't", asked Theo. "A true Pokemon Trainer rises to any challenge. There's no room for cowardice on the battlefield."
"I don't know if I agree with that entirely, but Theo does have a point", began Professor Elm. "Trainers would've most likely swarmed to the Grand Prix regardless of whether or not they knew about the potential dangers."
"But that's no excuse to willingly endanger their lives like this", began Professor Juniper. "Maybe we should rethink this whole thing."
"Are you suggesting we cancel the WBGP", asked Vitzo.
"No, that's not up for debate", said Steven, finally breaking his silence. "The World Battling Grand Prix will continue as planned. However, extra precautions will need to be taken. In light of recent events, we'll have to re-strategize the preliminary rounds. If we can't cancel the Grand Prix, we can at the very least postpone it if necessary."
"You can't be serious", exclaimed Vitzo. "How am I supposed to hype up this competition with no poster boy and no promotion date for the public?"
"Look", growled Theo as he slammed on Steven's desk. "I will not allow you to stop the Champion Island Tournament without crowning me the winner. If you postpone the Grand Prix without crowning a champion of this tournament, then this entire charade will amount to nothing but a colossal waste of my time, so declare me the winner already. I'm the last Trainer standing."
"Says who", I asked as I entered the room, making my presence known.
"Rojan", gasped Professor Oak.
"Hey, back to bed", scolded Doctor Proctor. "You're in no condition to be out and about."
"Yeah, scamper back to sleep, Rojan", added Theo. "Your Champion Island days are over."
"Watch-Watch-Watchog", exclaimed Watchog defensively.
"Last time I checked, I still had one good arm, which means I can still throw a Poke Ball, which means I can still battle, so bring it on, Theo."
"Now, hold on a second, young man—", began Professor Rowan.
"Steven, you told us that the winner of Champion Island would be the Beacon of the WBGP. You said this Beacon would inspire Trainers to rise to the challenge and encourage them to do their best, in the hopes that a Champion will rise when the world needed one. If that's true, then what kind of Beacon would let a bunch of lowlife crooks get the better of him?"
"You don't understand, Rojan", began Professor Sycamore. "This is serious. There are dangerous people out there meddling with dangerous forces. You can be putting yourself in great danger."
"That all may be true, but I've looked Legendary Pokemon in the eye and lived to tell the tale, so if you think I'm scared of some big-mouthed blowhard in a Halloween mask, then you're sadly mistaken. I'm with Theo. If this tournament concludes without a winner, especially with the Grand Prix being postponed, then your plan will backfire and be a complete waste of time. And whether you like it or not, I'm going to battle Theo. And once I've defeated him, there will be no question as to who reigns supreme on Champion Island. So I ask you, Steven, are you in or out?"
"Watchog-Hog." The room fell quiet for a moment, but then the silence was broken as Steven rose to his feet from behind his desk.
"Officer Jenny, see to it that a battlefield is prepped and ready for tomorrow morning. Professor Rowan, call Mary and set up a broadcast. Tomorrow it will be decided. Tomorrow, we will crown a winner of the Champion Island Tournament, and we can't afford anymore interruptions. And in the meantime, I would like both of our remaining Finalists to be well-rested for tomorrow. Rojan, and Theo, if you'll please excuse us. There is much the staff and I still need to discuss." Having taken the hint, Theo and I excuse ourselves from Steven's office via an escort by Officer Jenny.
"Rojan", called Crystal from across the Pokemon Center. I then turn to see her, along with Rudy, Casey, Anya, and Molly all rushing towards me.
"You're finally awake", exclaimed an excited Molly as she broke ahead of the others and embraced me.
"Welcome back, bro", added Rudy.
"Glad to be back", I responded as I stroked Molly's head.
"Chan-Sey-Chan-Sey-Chan-Sey-Chan", sang a cheerful Chansey as it pushed a cart towards us. On the cart were a Fast Ball, a Great Ball, a Dusk Ball, a Love Ball, and two Poke Balls, one of which was empty.
"My Pokemon", I said as I collected the Poke Balls.
"Chansey-Chan."
"Thank you for caring for them, Chansey."
"Chansey", it replied as it walked away.
"Hmph", huffed Theo as he also began walking away from us.
"Hey, Theo", called out Anya, which caused Theo to pause with his back turned to us. "Mrs. Hale invited us out for a picnic. Would you like to join us?" Theo then continued on his way without a word. "Hey! Didn't you hear me?" Theo pauses again before turning around and responding.
"I don't associate myself with lesser Trainers. Have fun with your nerd herd."
"That does it", exclaimed a now hysteric Anya as she attempted to rush at Theo as if to fight him. Rudy put a stop to it by restraining her, though she struggled in his grasp. "I was trying to be nice, you pompous jerk!"
"Calm down, Anya", pleaded Rudy. "I understand how you feel, but fighting him isn't worth it."
"I'll take my chances", retorted Anya.
"What are you two fools even still doing here?"
"Huh", asked Rudy and Anya simultaneously.
"What are any of you doing here? You all failed to stay alive in this tournament, so what purpose do you serve by being here?"
"We're here to support our friend, Theo", retorted Crystal. "You might understand if you had any."
"I have no need for friends. I have my Pokemon, and occasionally worthy opponents", continues Theo as he shoots a glare at me. "Rojan, of all the Trainers to have come to this island, you are the only one worthy of being called my rival. The way your Charizard battled alongside my Scizor was quite impressive. Only a truly powerful Trainer could raise such a Pokemon daring enough to take on the legendary Dialga. But make no mistake, when the dust finally clears tomorrow, I'll be the Master of Champion Island, and you'll be lost in my shadow, so prepare to lose."
"Alright, buster, that's enough out of you", said Casey as she points her megaphone at Theo. "Get back to your dugout."
"You weren't even in this tournament. Why should I take orders from you?"
"Theo, that's enough", I said to him calmly.
"Very well then", said Theo with a huff. "But I'll leave you with this."
"With what?"
"Take a long look at yourself, and the company you keep, Rojan. And ask yourself this, "why are you here?"." And with that, Theo walked away out of the Pokemon Center.
"Does he have to be so dramatic", asked Anya.
"Forget about him", replied Casey. "We've got more important things to worry about, like getting my star player ready for his biggest battle ever", continued Casey as she pointed her megaphone at me.
"Wa-Watchog-Hog", added Watchog as it climbed onto my right shoulder.
"Now, let's get you some grub. You can't win a battle without energy."
"She's right, Rojan", added Crystal. "Mrs. Hale will be glad to know you're awake as well."
"Plus Mama's a great cook", added Molly as she tugged on my hand.
"Okay, okay", I said with a chuckle. "Let's go."
Some time later, we found ourselves and our Pokemon on the west coast of the island, on the same beach as my Water Crest battle. Mrs. Hale had a large picnic table and chairs set up for us to use as she and Rudy continued preparing our food over the nearby grill. Anya, Crystal, and Molly were enjoying splashing around in the water, and Casey was quietly fishing for a new Pokemon nearby. As for myself, I was lounging with all of my Pokemon. Partially it was because I was enjoying their company as we bathed in the sun, but I was mostly just taking time to reflect on the past few days as I was lost in my thoughts.
Theo's right. What am I still doing here? Why did I even come to this island? And why can't I remember? My frustration at my inner struggle came to a halt upon hearing a familiar electronic voice.
"Kadabra, the Psi Pokemon, and the evolved form of Abra. Kadabra employ powerful telekinetic attacks, and are known for what many describe as spiritual powers."
"So cool", said Molly in response to her Pokedex's information regarding my Kadabra. "Don't you think so, Teddiursa?"
"Ursa-Ursa."
"What're you up to, Molly", asked Crystal as she and her Bayleef approached us.
"I just wanted to learn more about Rojan's Pokemon. They're so cool, and I've never seen most of them before", replied an eager Molly as she pointed her Pokedex at another of my Pokemon.
"Swanna, the White Bird Pokemon, and the evolved form of Ducklett. Because of their long, powerful necks, Swanna can deliver forceful attacks with their beaks."
"Swanna's feathers are so pretty", said Molly.
"Swanna-Swann", replied Swanna as it began to blush a little. I chuckled in response to Molly's praise. Seeing her face light up as she learned about my Pokemon was a treat to watch.
"Okay, next", said Molly as she pointed her Pokedex again.
"Watchog, the Lookout Pokemon, and the evolved form of Patrat. Watchog contain luminescent compounds in their bodies, which allow their eyes and stripes to glow."
"Wow. They can really glow?"
"Show her, Watchog", I said to my Pokemon. "Use Flash."
"Waaaaaaaaaaaatchoooooooooog", said Watchog as it rose to its hind legs and began radiating a bright light from the yellow rings in its fur.
"Haunter", exclaimed Haunter as it shoved Watchog. As a ghost-type Pokemon, it didn't care for the extra light.
"Watchog-Watchog", squeaked an irritated Watchog in response.
"Haunter-Ter", growled Haunter.
"Come on, guys, don't fight", pleaded Molly to the two of them.
"Stoutland! Stout-Stout", barked Stoutland to the two bickering Pokemon, both of whom calmed down immediately upon Stoutland putting its paw down.
"Thanks for that, Stoutland", I praised my Pokemon.
"Stoutland", it replied as it lowered its head and returned to its nap. The still curious Molly then points her Pokedex at it as it slept.
"Stoutland, the Big-Hearted Pokemon, and the evolved form of Herdier. Stoutland are very wise and are skilled in rescuing people stranded in the mountains or at sea."
"Alright, everyone", began Mrs. Hale as she approached us. "Lunch is ready."
"Finally", exclaimed an excited Anya as she ran past us towards the table. "I'm starving."
"Croconaw", chimed her Pokemon as it ran behind her.
"Bay", exclaimed Bayleef as it followed their lead.
"Hey, wait for me", said Crystal as she ran after Bayleef. My Pokemon all then began making their way over to the table for lunch.
"Wait a second, Charizard", said Molly. Upon hearing its name being called, Charizard stopped in its tracks and turned back to Molly. "I haven't seen your Pokedex entry yet." Charizard growled happily in response, amused by Molly's enthusiasm as she pointed her Pokedex at it.
"Charizard, the Flame Pokemon, and the evolved form of Charmeleon. When competing in intense battles, a Charizard's flame becomes more intense as well."
"Whoa, I guess that means Charizard are really strong."
"Ursa-Teddi." In response to her kind words, Charizard rewards Molly by rubbing its face against hers.
"Charizard, quit it", giggled Molly. This in turn egged Charizard on, as Charizard now started licking her face. "Hey, that tickles", continued a giggly Molly.
"Ur-Ursa", giggled Teddiursa upon seeing its Trainer laughing uncontrollably.
"Oh, Molly", chuckled Mrs. Hale. As I looked at Molly playing with Charizard, I was reminded of when I first started my Pokemon journey. Back then, Charizard was a little Charmander, wide-eyed and always eager to explore the world. The two of us used to light up with the same wonder that Molly did upon meeting new people and Pokemon. "Alright, you two. Let's eat."
"Okay, Mama. Come on, Teddiursa", said Molly as she made her way over to the table.
"Teddi", replied Teddiursa and it and Charizard followed behind her.
"You coming, Rojan", asked Mrs. Hale.
"Uh, yeah. Right behind you", I said awkwardly upon being brought back from my inner thoughts. I then rose onto my feet and followed behind the others. A few moments later, we all found ourselves sitting around the table for the meal Mrs. Hale and Rudy had prepared for us.
"I'd like to propose a toast", said Rudy as he rose out of his seat with his drink in his hand.
"To our new friend, Rojan, for making it to the final round of the Champion Island Tournament."
"And for his heroic actions during a time of crisis", added Mrs. Hale.
"And for his successful recovery and return from the hospital", added Crystal. Upon hearing Crystal's words as she sat beside me, I couldn't help but smile a little. "To Rojan", she continued.
"To Rojan", chimed the others before we all sipped our drinks.
"To me", I muttered bashfully after taking my sip. From there, almost immediately afterwards, Molly pleads a request to Rudy, having contained her excitement for too long at this point.
"Hey, Rudy. Can Blaziken come out and join us, please?"
"Sure", he responds with a small chuckle at her excitement. "Come on out, pal", he says upon releasing it from its Poke Ball.
"Ken", it exclaimed as it flexed while simultaneously igniting its wrists. Without missing a beat, Molly pulls out her Pokedex once again.
"Blaziken, the Blaze Pokemon, and the evolved form of Combusken. When they meet powerful enemies, flames come out of their wrists, making their punches extremely damaging and dangerous."
"Wow! So cool!"
"Settle down, dear", began Mrs. Hale with a chuckle. "At this rate you're becoming more fired up than the Pokemon are."
"But Mama, don't you remember when Blaziken evolved during its last battle", she asked excitedly before going on a fanatical tangent about seeing a Pokemon evolve for the first time. As she retold the others the event of seeing Blaziken's debut against Theo's Pelipper, I began to lose myself in my thoughts as I recounted the first time I ever saw a Pokemon evolve.
It was long ago, back when I first left Pallet Town to start my Pokemon journey. I was camped out next to a small pond in the Viridian Forest, with only my two Pokemon for company. That is until something began chasing us out.
**flashback**
"Hang on, guys! I'll get us out of this", I exclaimed in a panic while simultaneously out of breath. My much younger and inexperienced self was in a very bad situation for a new Trainer to be in. I was on the run, with a Charmander under one arm, and a Magikarp under my other arm, fleeing from a flock of Spearow, after making the terrible mistake of camping in their territory.
"Ouch", I exclaimed upon one of the Spearow swooping down and pecking the top of my head.
"Char", exclaimed Charmander in a worried tone.
"Don't worry about me! I promise I'll get us out of— ouch", I tried to repeat before getting pecked again. Looking back on the situation now, I'm mostly frustrated with myself for trying to leg it while carrying my Pokemon when I easily could've just put them back in their Poke Balls.
Anyway, this peck, caused me to lose my balance as I took a tumble down a hill. Again, the three of us could've avoided a lot of damage, if not the tumble itself, if I remembered Poke Balls existed, but whatever. As a result of this tumble, the flock began making their move as a few of them broke away from the group and began attacking Magikarp, who was too busy flopping around due to the lack of water to escape, let alone fight back.
"Leave it alone", I exclaimed as I threw myself at the Spearow, tackling three of them off of Magikarp in the process. In immediate response, the Spearow turned their attention on me as I shielded Magikarp with my body. I remember the feeling of dread washing over me as the stinging pain of beaks and talons riddled my neck, shoulders, and back.
"Chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar", exclaimed Charmander from further away as it unleashed an Ember attack on the flock.
"Charmander, run", I shouted at my Pokemon, worried for its safety.
"Chaaaaaaaaaaar! Chaaaaaaar! Chaaaaaar", it continued to exclaim as it continued to literally open fire on the Spearow, ignoring my pleas in a desperate attempt to drive them away.
"There's too many of them", I grunted through the pain.
"Chaaaaaaar", it exclaimed once more upon unleashing one last Ember. "Char-Man-Der-Char", it began breathing heavily as I noticed the flame on its tail beginning to get smaller and smaller.
"Charmander", I exclaimed in a panic as I tried to rush to its aid, a task made difficult as I was still trying to simultaneously shield Magikarp as well.
"Speeeeeeeeeear", squawked a lone Spearow as it dove at Charmander.
"Karp-Kaaaaaaaaaarp", exclaimed Magikarp as it somehow managed to wriggle out from under me, use its tail to jump, and intercept Spearow with an airborne Tackle attack. Upon seeing Magikarp pull such a maneuver, everything came to a stop as we looked upon the seemingly helpless water-type in awe as it flopped around in front of Charmander, angrily. "Karp-Karp! Magikaaaaaaaaaaaarp", it hollered as it jumped into the air again as its body began to glow.
"Whoa", I exclaimed in shock.
"Mander?" The light continued to glow brighter and brighter as Magikarp's body began to change completely. After a few moments of this, just like that, in the middle of the Viridian Forest was a giant, newly-evolved, and angry Gyarados.
"Whoa! Gyarados", I exclaimed still in shock. I was at a complete loss of words, as witnessing a Pokemon evolve, especially one as powerful and as feared as a Gyarados, was the most incredible thing I had ever seen.
"Spearow", squawked the lone Spearow from before as it attempted to lead the charge against Gyarados. In response, Gyarados lets out a mighty roar, causing all but the lone Spearow to flee in a panic. "Spearow", it squawked as it began pecking at Gyardos' head.
"No way. It still wants to battle", I asked aloud in regards to Spearow not backing down from Gyarados. Gyarados then continues to thrash around at the Spearow as it flew around it in circles. Gyarados may have been powerful, but having just evolved, it wasn't as maneuverable in its new skin as Spearow was.
"Char! Charmander-Char-Char", exclaimed Charmander as it grabbed my attention and pointed at me.
"Huh? Oh yeah", I exclaimed upon remembering the Pokedex Professor Oak gave me. I then sat myself up and pulled it out of my pocket as I pointed it at my new Pokemon.
"Gyarados, the Atrocious Pokemon, and the evolved form of Magikarp. Gyarados are known for their vicious temperament, and their harder-than-steel scales. Their special attack is the Dragon Rage."
"Dragon Rage?" It was then that, as if Gyarados heard me, it unleashes a stream of dark blue energy from its mouth and strikes down Spearow as it began spiraling towards the ground. It was as this point the world seemed to slow down as my inner Pokemon Trainer instincts took over, springing me to my feet as I pulled an empty Poke Ball from my pocket. "Poke Ball, go", I hollered as I threw it at the falling Spearow.
**end of flashback**
"Casey, you got a bite", exclaimed Rudy, snapping me out of my thoughts. Upon returning to reality, I look over towards the fishing rod that Casey had propped up as something in the water began tugging at it.
"What an upset! Casey's being challenged by a mystery true, blue, water Pokemon", she began to monologue out loud as she jumped out of her seat and rushed to the rod. "Could it be a golden Goldeen? Could it be a whimsical Whiscash? Could it perhaps be a crusty Corphish? All that's for sure is that it's a big one", she continued as she struggled to yank it out of the water.
"Ooooh! Maybe it'll be a scary Gyarados", suggested an excited Molly.
"Let's hope not", chuckled her mother nervously. I remember a small smile stretching across my face in response to Molly's youthful enthusiasm. The fact that she gleefully referred to a Pokemon as scary was amusing to me.
"Come on, Casey! Pull it out", cheered Anya.
"The suspense is killing me", added Crystal.
"Almost there", I added as I was now interested in seeing the Pokemon Casey snagged. After what seemed like ages, Casey finally managed to pull the Pokemon out of the water, hard. Casey pulled so hard in fact, that the Pokemon was launched through the air towards us, landing onto Anya's face in the process.
"Uhhhh…", began Anya who was frozen in shock as the Pokemon wrapped its tentacles around her face. We all sat there frozen for a few moments, before Anya finally broke the silence in a panic. "Get it off! Get it off! Get it off", she shrieked in a panicky tone as she began running around the picnic table in circles.
"Tentacool", gasped the frightened Tentacool as it clung harder to Anya for dear life. In response, Crystal, Rudy, and myself all got out of our seats and rushed to her aid. Rudy and I restrained Anya, with each of us grabbing one of her arms, while Crystal grabbed onto the Tentacool and proceeded to try and rip it off of Anya's face.
"Let, her, go", grunted Crystal as she struggled to pull Tentacool off of Anya.
"Cool! Tenta! Cool", it groaned as it refused to let go.
"Bay-Bay", retorted Crystal's Bayleef as it used Vine Whip, wrapping its vines around Crystal's waist. "Leef", it grunted as it began pulling on Crystal in an attempt to help.
"Croco-Croc", growled Anya's Croconaw as it grabbed onto Bayleef and began pulling as well. As you would expect, the sudden addition of Bayleef and Croconaw pulling in the opposite direction made it difficult for me and Rudy to keep our balance, as we almost ended up taking a tumble, along with Anya and the Tentacool. Fortunately, Blaziken and Charizard anticipated this, as they came to our aid by grabbing ahold of us to counteract Bayleef and Croconaw. Unfortunately, despite the fact that three people and four Pokemon were now involved in this game of tug-of-war, Tentacool still showed no signs of letting go of Anya.
"Hurry up and get this jellyfish off of me, Rudy", exclaimed a now irritated Anya.
"Easy for you to say! This Tentacool has the grip of a Machoke!"
"We're getting nowhere with this", added Crystal as she continued to pull Tentacool.
"If someone's got a better idea, speak now", I added.
"That's Casey's cue, as she steps up to the plate", she continues to monologue as she throws a Poke Ball.
"Pidgey", squawked Pidgey upon being released.
"And it's the high-flier known as Pidgey as it enters the arena! Prepare yourselves, poke-fans, as Pidgey unleashes its Gust attack!
"Pidgeeeeeeeeey", squawked Pidgey as it flapped its wings hard and fast, kicking up a mighty wind in the process as the lot of us got hit with it.
"Tenta-Coooooooooool", gasped Tentacool as its grip on Anya slipped and was hurled into the air.
"That's the way! Now get it close", commanded Casey while Tentacool was still airborne.
"Piiiiiiiiiiiiiidge", began Pidgey as it rushed at Tentacool.
"Tentacooooooooooooool", it hollered in response as it straightened itself in midair and fired a rainbow-colored energy beam out of the small crystal in the center of its head.
"Whoa! Aurora Beam", gasped a shocked Rudy.
"Watch out, Pidgey! Dodge it", commanded Casey.
"Pi-Dgey", it squawked as it managed to barrel roll out of the way. This gave Tentacool the opening it needed to return safely to the ground as it fired another Aurora Beam, this time at the rest of us at the table.
"Ta-Cooooooool!"
"Quick, Blaziken! Protect", commanded Rudy.
"Blaaaaaaaaaaaaaaz", it growled as it jumped out in front and shielded everyone with a green forcefield.
"Cool", asked Tentacool aloud as it confused why its attack not working. "Tentacool-Cool-Cool", it continued in a rage as it fired multiple Aurora Beams at Blaziken, angered that they weren't doing anything.
"I don't get it, what's it doing", asked a confused Mrs. Hale, interference to Tentacool continuing to use Aurora Beam over and over again.
"I think, that's the only attack it knows", theorized Rudy.
"Look, Mama! It's colored strangely", exclaimed Molly as she pointed out at it. Upon hearing this, I take a closer look at the enraged water-type and take notice of something odd.
"Wait a second", I began as I pulled out my Pokedex and pointed it at Tentacool.
"Tentacool, the Jellyfish Pokemon. 99% of their bodies are made up of water, and their tentacles contain a dangerously potent poison."
"She's right, guys. That Tentacool does have a different color", I added as I compared this Tentacool to the one in the Pokedex. As opposed to the usual color palette of a light blue body with red crystals on its head, this particular Tentacool was a darker shade of blue with green crystals on its head.
"Then it's a good thing I plan to catch it", retorted Casey as she ran forward to continue the battle. "Pidgey, Sand Attack!"
"Pidgey", it squawked as it began kicking up a stupidly huge amount of sand onto Tentacool. Despite this however, Tentacool simply paused from its onslaught and glared intensely at Pidgey.
"What happened", asked a shocked Casey.
"It's Clear Body", I exclaimed. "Sand Attack won't work on Tentacool!"
"Tentacoooooooooool", hollered Tentacool as it launched another Aurora Beam at Pidgey, except this one was a direct hit.
"Pidgey, no!"
"That was super-effective", gasped Crystal as Pidgey crash-landed into the ground.
"Tenta", growled Tentacool as it took a few steps forward towards the weakened Pidgey. "Tentacool", it continued as it began charging up another Aurora Beam from close range.
"This battle's over if that connects", gasped Anya.
"Do something, Casey", I added.
"Don't give in, Pidgey", commanded Casey as she began covering her ears. "Use Uproar!"
"Piiiiiiii-Dgeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeey", squawked Pidgey super loudly. The rest of us on the sidelines all groaned in agony as we all covered our ears from the terrible noise.
"Tentaaaaaaaaaa", groaned Tentacool in response to the sound, its Aurora Beam coming to a halt in the process.
"Follow that up with Quick Attack!"
"Pidgey-Dgey", squawked Pidgey, who with its second wind launched itself at Tentacool with lightning speed, slamming into Tentacool's face as its thrown backwards onto its back.
"A direct hit", monologued Casey. "Casey's managed to weaken a rare and unique Pokemon, could it perhaps be time for the secret weapon? I believe so!"
"Secret weapon", asked Rudy, Crystal, and myself simultaneously as Casey pulled out an Ultra Ball.
"Casey's not messin' around", added Anya.
"I'm not taking any chances with this one, folks", said Casey as she drew back her arm. "Here's the wind-up, and the pitch….", he continues as she threw the Ultra Ball at Tentacool.
Upon impact, the ball opened and sucked Tentacool into it. Once that happened, the ball hit the ground and began wiggling a little as the button began blinking red. As this was happening all of us, Trainer and Pokemon alike, stood there in stunned silence in anticipation as we waited to see if Tentacool had the strength to break out of the ball. After another seemingly infinite wait, the ball finally stopped moving, the red light disappeared, and a faint pinging sound could be heard.
"Yay! Yay! Yaaaaaaaay", exclaimed an excited Casey as she ran over to the Ultra Ball. "We did it! We did it! We did it! We caught a Tentacool", she continued as she held up the Ultra Ball in a victory pose.
"Pidgeeeeeeeeeeeey", squawked Pidgey triumphantly as its body began to glow.
"Huh", asked a shocked Casey.
"No way", exclaimed Rudy.
"It's happening again", added an excited Molly.
"That light is beautiful", added Crystal as she and I looked in awe at Pidgey beginning to evolve.
"Pidgeoooooooooooo", squawked the new Pokemon boldly as it took to the air in celebration. Molly, like she does, wasted no time pulling out her Pokedex.
"Pidgeotto, the Bird Pokemon, and the evolved form of Pidgey. Pidgeotto are armed with sharp claws, and dive from the sky to capture their prey."
"This calls for a team huddle", exclaimed Casey as she threw two Poke Balls and an Ultra Ball into the air, releasing the rest of her Pokemon as she did so.
"Elebelebelebelebe!"
"Rattata!"
"Tentacool! Tenta", asked the confused Tentacool as Casey approached it.
"Tentacool, you've got the heart of an Electabuzz and an awesome grip. We're happy to have you on the team", she said as she handed Tentacool an oran berry.
"Ten-ta-cool", it said bashfully as it took the berry as it began to blush a little.
"Elebe?"
"Oh yeah, check it out, gang. Pidgey evolved."
"Rattata!"
"We've got a new teammate, and an evolution! Let's hear it for Pidgeotto and Tentacool", cheered Casey as she led her Pokemon in singing their favorite fight song. As she sang, Electabuzz's antennae would spark in rhythm to the song, as would Rattata's fur. Casey's enthusiasm was so contagious that Tentacool, and even Molly started joining in after a while.
Once the song was over, the rest of us began cheering and congratulating Casey for her accomplishments with some small applause. With all of this excitement over what was originally supposed to be a relaxing picnic, I felt a warmth from within as a smile stretched across my face. After spending so long traveling with just my Pokemon for company, to be surrounded by friends and just existing amongst them while we embraced the craziness of the day filled me with a joy I had never felt before. In the process, I was reminded of something so important, that I was shocked I forgot about it in the first place.
Thank you, Casey, I thought to myself in my head. Thank you, Molly. Thank you, everyone.