Author's Note:

Here it is, a nice little connection chapter between the Celebi arc and the last three partner before the league. We get to see one final evolution for Ash's team in Johto and we get to meet a new character. She won't have a major role, arguably smaller than her canon appearance. This is also what I am classing as the last regular chapter as we have the next three partner and then the league and even the chapter which would normally be a connecter between that three-parter and the league is more of a starting point to the Silver conference. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.


Chapter 85: Here's Looking at you, Elekid

Ash took a deep breath as the cool breeze blew past his face. A warm morning sun, heating up his skin. Sighing in relaxation, he turned to the side and saw similar pleasant expressions on his friends. Turning forward he looked over the small town of New Bark, wind turbines littered across the small aspect.

It was funny, even if not his hometown, he still got the same feeling of nostalgia wash over him.

"Well guys, are you ready to keep going?" Brock asked.

All of them agreed in chorused. They smiled and began walking up the hill towards the wind powered town. As they entered the town, Ash noticed the people doing daily routines like gardening or talking with friends. Some children were even walking around and playing together.

"So, what time did you tell the Professor we'd be at the lab?" Serena asked.

"Well, I didn't really, I left him a message on the voice mail," Brock explained, "I said we'd be visiting today but without a particular time."

"If our previous encounters we're any indication, he was probably knee deep in some sort of research," Misty shrugged, "best you didn't speak to him, in that case, otherwise you might still be on the phone to him now."

As they continued through the small town, Ash noticed a somewhat familiar man stood with a Typhlosion and several other adults surrounding him. Running around them was a young girl who striked a remarkable resemblance to Marina, who was chasing a Marill in some sort of game. Considering that they live in the town and have had close families for years, it's no surprise to see them all interacting.

Continuing onwards they soon arrived outside the laboratory. Ash approached first, fully intending to knock but when he reached it, he found it was already open even if the lights were off. Hearing a slight ruckus from inside, he nudged it open as he knocked. It creaked open as the daylight illuminated the inside of the lab. It was scattered with even more books than before, stepping inside Ash had a strange sense of deja vu.

"Hello!" Ash called out.

As the room became even more lit-up, Ash glanced around before settling on the kitchen area. A Misdreavus was floating above a counter, eating out of a bowl placed on there, whilst a Girafarig was eating out of one on the floor. The two Pokémon glanced up and smiled at him before returning to their meal.

It didn't take a genius to figure out they belonged to Marina and Jimmy, respectively.

Turning back around he saw all his friends joining him within the building. Another echo of rucket sounded through the building. Another glance at the Pokémon showed them not looking up again from their food. Taking a hesitant breath, he turned towards the room.

"Hello?" he called out.

A series of shuffled feet and more metal clangs followed, "whose there?"

Ash smiled at the familiar voice. "Professor! Its Ash and my friends. We decided to stop by whilst we were in town."

Leading the way deeper into the lab, he soon came across the young Professor. He was kneeling over a stack of books as he was hastily placing more on top from the pool surrounding it and other pillars nearby. He cast a glance towards them and offered a friendly smile towards them. He began to frantically stand up and before Ash could warn him, he slammed his head into the ceiling light dangling above.

He cringed as the professor grunted out in pain, holding his presumably throbbing head.

"Sorry Professor," Serena apologised for them, "we didn't mean to disturb you."

"No. No, it's quite alright," he shook his hand, stepping over the sea of books and papers, "what do I owe this visit?"

"Well we were passing by on the way to the Silver conference and thought we'd pop in," Brock explained, "I did leave you a voice mail to let you know."

"Oh sorry, I must've missed it. I haven't checked on my phone since-" he paused, "what day is it today?"

"Tuesday," Misty rolled her eyes.

"Already?" Professor questioned before shaking his head, "never mind. So, is there anything I could help you with?"

"Well, if you don't mind, could I borrow your videophone please," Serena asked, "this was where Larvitar first hatched and where we met, and I thought it would be nice for him to see it again."

"Of course," the Professor smiled, "I presume you remember where it is."

Serena smiled and nodded. She quickly slipped away down an adjacent corridor. Soon she was out of sight and Ash turned back towards the slanky Professor who had since turned around and grabbed a stack of papers, shuffling through them. He may have turned towards them but focused more on the reports.

"So I been working on this new project for the last few months and I'd like to get your opinions on it before I send it to Professor Oak for proofing," Professor Elm mumbled as he continued to shuffle through the papers. Apparently, he found the one he was looking for and pulled it out, handing it over with Brock being the one to hold it. "It's all about how different Pokémon can have multiple abilities and what effects determine which they-"

Ash quickly tuned out as Brock entered the conversation. His hand reached for a Pokéball on his belt and he picked it off. Not releasing his friend inside, he just held it and looked at it. The device was the one containing his Phanpy. Sighing he just stared at the red and white sphere.

It wasn't that he was upset or disappointed in his ground, far from it. It's just with the silver conference approaching a horrible realisation has come into his head and he hasn't been sure how to tell him. With the conference promising the toughest challenges, he doesn't want him to get hurt in battles where he doesn't stand a chance. Of course, he wants to give all his Pokémon a chance to battle but Phanpy is still young.

Question was, how to tell him.

He soon saw returning with her Larvitar walking in front. Even if a lot smaller than her, he has certainly grown. He didn't even look nervous as he examined the lab even in the limited light. It brought a smile to Ash's face as they re-joined the group.

"Ah, it's nice to see you again Larvitar," the Professor smiled, being brought out of the other conversation.

"I think Larvitar is happy to be back," Serena smiled, "when he first hatched, he was nervous and wouldn't leave myside but now."

"You have done a wonderful job raising him, Serena," he praised, "and I can't imagine it'll be long before he evolves. Do you know about his evolution line?"

"Yes, actually," Serena smiled, "our friend, Gary, has a Pupitar and we also saw a Tyranitar in Goldenrod. It was a little intimidating to be honest, and also hard to believe that someone as small as Larvitar would grow to be that big."

"Well it's not that surprising," Professor Elm replied, "not when you look at its evolution line as a whole. Well, erm, I mean. When you look at it in relations to other drastic evolution changes. They are much more similar to some like a Weedle or Caterpie. There middle stage is a kukune, a chance for their bodies to grow internally and develop, only evolving again when fully ready."

"So, what about Magikarp into Gyarados?" Misty asked, "that is one of the most drastic changes."

"That one-" he paused, rubbing his chin as he tried to process some sort of answer, "that one is something no scientist can prepare for regardless of the hypothesis being proposed. It's an anomaly. Something that falls out of place but maybe it has something to do with the aquatic nature since no kukune evolutions that pop to mind are also water-based. Hmm, I might need to suggest it as a research topic to Professor Birch."

"Professor Birch?" Ash found himself asking.

"Yes, the regional Professor in Hoenn, based in Littleroot town," Professor Elm answered, "he specialises in Pokémon habitation. The paper I was showing you all before was actually a starting point for him. He wanted to see what environmental effects dictate which ability is used by a single Pokémon and I became intrigued and took my own notes on the matter. Well, that's how it started but the more I looked into it the bigger it became."

Ash was about to ask why he would send it to Professor Oak for proofing if it was more related to another researchers project but he waved it off, remembering that he was Oak's student and seemed to always look to him for approval.

"If we get a few more professors to add in, we could make it a whole topic for Laboratory news or-" Professor Elm rambled on.

"That's sounds great Professor," Misty smiled, the same smile that made Ash know she wanted this to end. It wasn't that she didn't like Elm or wasn't interested in finding out more but they did want to make it past New Bark before sundown and glancing at the clock, they arrived in town nearly two hours ago, and Elm has proven to be able to ramble on any topic for a long time, "but we should really get going."

"Right. Right, of course," Professor Elm smiled, glancing around for somewhere to put his papers before settling for one of the book pillars, "but considering the time before the league is meant to begin, could I recommend a tour on your journey?"

"Of course," Ash smiled, knowing the others would turn to him since they are going to the league for him. Besides, if worst came to the worst then they could fly over on Pidgeot and his other large flying types.

"Well, it's more for Serena actually," Professor Elm replied, "you see, next to the league is a ranger-safety zone for wild Pokémon. It was set up when the stadium was being developed and never closed down. Tyranitar's and its whole line are an endangered species and with that being one of their natural homes and only one in both Kanto and Johto. Its where Larvitar's egg came from after it was rescued from a poacher, even if he got away."

"So, you want us to take Larvitar to visit his would-be home?" Serena asked.

"Don't take it personally, Serena, you have done an amazing job with Larvitar and I'm sure you'll continue to do so," Professor Elm explained, "but sometimes, for one to move forward and take the next step, like an evolution, they must first return to their roots."

Serena nodded and turned down to her rock skin Pokémon.

"What do you say, Larvitar?" she asked, "want to visit mt Silver and maybe see your family?"

"It's unlikely," the Professor explained, "you see, Larvitar are quick to leave the nest. Even if you found his mother, she likely wouldn't welcome him back."

"How come?" Misty asked.

"Like I said, Tyranitar and its whole line are endangered," Professor Elm explained, "they don't mate like most species. Males don't wait around to watch them grow up and unlike most species. They don't settle down in one pairing, regardless of their gender."

The expression on Serena's face wasn't really a surprise as she was more traditional when it came to relationships and honestly Ash wouldn't want to be with anyone other than Serena even if he knows he is too young for that step of a relationship.

After bidding goodbye to the Professor, the group set off once more, this time to the north-east to both the destination of the Silver conference and the ranger safety zone.


Ash took in a deep breath as they came to a stop. After leaving the lab, they set off to the North-East. They had only been travelling for a few hours but have already came to a nice open field with a running stream.

"This looks like a nice place to set up camp for the night," Serena smiled, "I'll get the tents set up."

"And I'll collect firewood," Ash added.

"I'll set up a fire and cooking utensils for later," Brock continued.

"Guess I'm on Poke sitting duty," Misty smiled, "at least for those who won't be helping you guys out."

They each took out their Pokéballs and released their teams. A large crowd formed of: Pikachu, Pidgeot, Muk, Croconaw, Phanpy, Beedrill, Tangrowth, Sylveon, Larvitar, Furret, Murkrow, Hitmontop, Golduck, Slowbro, Marill, Corsola, Poliwrath, Ninetales, Stantler, Forretress, Bonsly, Shuckle and Delibird. In the stream were also Qwilfish and Mantyke.

"Okay Pidgeot, Beedrill, Furret, Stantler and Delibird, could you help me with finding some firewood?" Ash asked, with those Pokémon stepping forward.

"That's a large group, Ash, how much firewood you are planning on getting?" Misty asked.

"Well this is a new route hardly travelled down," Ash answered, "if we get enough today then we won't need to search for a few days at least."

"Just make sure you hurry up because I can't start dinner without the firewood," Brock smiled.

"Don't worry, once we have the first bundle, I'll send Pidgeot back with it," Ash explained.

With one last smile, he began running off with that team going off with him. Beedrill buzzed a head as Furret ran by his side. Delibrid was slightly over head but lagging behind as Stantler kept a steady pace by his side. Finally, Pidgeot took off overhead and made the quickest distance.

Honestly, he only really brought Pidgeot so she could spread her wings, she isn't great at searching the ground due to being too big to fly through the tree lines near the ground. At least he has the others to help him, even if not on his team they can work together to get certain jobs done. As he closed into the forest line, he heard the others splitting off into separate groups as well.

Almost as soon as he entered the forest-area, he started spotting good branches that we're scattered on the floor. He approached the first tree and started to pick up the already loose branches. As he did, he saw more start to rain down over head. A glance up showed Beedrill knocking more down.

He never was the most patient.

As he picked up the rest of the branches, he saw Furret returning with a much smaller collection. Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out a piece of rope and tied it round the bundle. Whistling out, he saw Pidgeot enter a steep dive and land right next to him. Rolling the bundle in front of her, she grabbed it with her talon before taking off once more.

"Come on guys, that wood isn't going to collect itself," Ash smiled and set off once more.

Continuing through the forest and collecting piles of wood and handed them out to the group with him. Well, all except Beedrill, who focused more and cutting branches down. Furret also continued to run around and juggled three bundles whilst doing so. It was very impressive. As he prepared to stand up from the most recent tree, he spotted something yellow poke out from a nearby bush.

"Hello?" he called out.

The individual stepped out. It was a short yellow, round-bodied Pokémon with black stripes. Its arms were bulky in proportion to its body, and it had three claws instead of fingers. Two stripes on its arms wrapped all the way around. It also had two horns on top of its head which resembled the prongs of a plug, complete with holes in their sides. It had a lightning bolt marking on its chest. Two rows of stripes are near the markings, with the pattern continuing around its back. Its legs were black, and its feet rounded and toeless. Last time he saw one belonged to Paul, last he remembered.

"An Elekid," Ash mused, "I didn't expect to see you, little guy."

"Who are you calling little guy?" Elekid asked, "scratch that, you're a trainer, right? Wanna battle."

"I would love to," Ash smiled, "but... I don't have anyone to battle with right now."

"Beedrill, Delibird, Stantler, Furret," Elekid counted, "you have enough to battle with."

"Oh well, none of these are actually a part of my team, sorry," Ash apologised, "you see, I travel with a bunch of my friends and we were setting up camp and split off into different groups to complete tasks. So, we just came out to collect firewood and all of these guys are my friends' team."

"Typical," Elekid rolled his eyes, turning around, "another time then."

"Wait, we're just setting up camp in an open meadow," Ash explained, "if you stop by later than we can battle then."

"I might take you up on that," Elekid replied, walking away, "but first I need a recharge. Catch ya later."

Ash smiled as the small electric type walked away, out of sight. He seemed like a good kid, just wanting a good battle. Standing up and picking up the last bundle of firewood he put together. He began walking towards the next tree as Beedrill buzzed down to his side.

"What was that about?" he asked, "do you just have random conversations with any wild Pokémon you come across?"

"I try to," Ash shrugged, "they are just easier to speak to... then people, I mean."

"I'll never get why my trainer likes you," Beedrill shook his head. He stopped and turned around a look of complexion crossed his face as he appeared to be listening out. Ash took a tentative step closer towards him, as he shot back around.

"Is everything alright?" Ash asked.

"We're not alone," he replied.

Beedrill shot off through the tree line and out of sight. Ash quickly glanced around at the other Pokémon he brought in the group before charging after him in a hurry. As he came into another clearing, he saw Beedrill stood off against a young girl, no older than eleven. Long-ish purple hair bunched up into two ponytails at the back hidden under a black and white baseball cap with a yellow lightning bolt. She had a large coat on which practically buried her, it had yellow and black stripes which heavily resembled an Electabuzz. Behind her was a group of Pokémon, a Meganium, Pidgeot, Raticate, Umbreon and Girafarig.

"So, did you find him or not, Beedrill?" he heard her ask.

"Is everything alright?" Ash asked, cautiously approaching.

The girl blinked as he walked closer. Beedrill turned to the side and watched as he also approached. "You must be here to try and take the Elekid for yourself, time to pitch Beedrill."

Beedrill glanced at her before turning back to Ash, "any translation here?"

"I think she wants you to attack me, Beedrill," Ash replied.

"Wouldn't be the first time I've considered it," Beedrill shrugged.

"What?!" Ash gasped.

"Relax, I never acted on it, obviously," Beedrill buzzed closer to him, "Serena would never forgive me, if I did."

"Is that the only reason you won't attack me?" Ash asked.

"Pretty much," Beedrill shrugged.

"What is going on?!" the girl yelled, "Beedrill! Attack him before he gets Elekid first."

"I think you're a little mistaken, miss," Ash stepped forward, holding his hand out, "you see, this is my girlfriends Beedrill and-"

Another Beedrill, one significantly smaller than Serena's, buzzed straight out of the forest behind the girl and her team. They turned to look at it as it came right up to the trainer's face. With dropped stingers and head, he shook his head and buzzed something.

"It sounds like he didn't have much luck with finding that Elekid," Ash explained, "I'm Ash, by the way, what's your name?"

"Casey. Casey Nanako," she shook his hand, "ace pitcher and this year's silver conference champion."

"Nice to meet you, Casey," Ash smiled as the handshake ended, "and I hate to break it to you, but I plan on being this year's silver conference champion."

"Oh, so you're the next challenger up to bat," she smirked, "well I hate to break it to you but the Electabuzz have been on a winning streak and we're gonna hit a home run. So, step up to the plate, if your man enough."

"Whoa, hold on," Ash held his hands up in surrender, "I can't battle right now. My friends are waiting for this firewood and that's where all my Pokémon are anyway. Hey, why don't you tag along so you can meet them?"

"Alright Shortstop, but we will need have this play off," Casey declared, turning to her team. She returned most of her team, except for Meganium.

They set off back towards Ash's friends with Serena's Beedrill launching off ahead of the others. Furret also ran ahead but remained in sight as Stantler had Delibird ride on her back and seemed to talk with Casey's grass type. As they entered the wooded area, Ash decided to restart the conversation.

"So, I take it, that you're a big baseball fan?" Ash asked.

"Too right," Casey smirked, "and of course, I support the Electabuzz all the way."

"I'll be honest, I'm not that into baseball. I prefer to take part in a sport rather than watch others play," Ash explained, "and as a travelling trainer, it's not that easy to follow a particular team."

"I hear that, ever since I set off with Meganium," she explained, "of course, she was a Chikorita back then, it's been hard to watch games on the tele. Let alone live in a stadium."

"So, I guess your support of the Electabuzz team is why you was looking for an Elekid?" Ash questioned.

"Right," she beamed, "ever since I became a trainer, I've wanted to catch an Electabuzz. And when I heard of a wild Elekid in this forest, I made a detour to catch it on the way to the silver conference. I've also tried to get as many Pokémon that are yellow with black stripes as possible."

"How come?" Ash asked.

"Because they look the coolest," she replied, "I don't solely use Pokémon based on that but it's a preference thing. Of course, Beedrill is my only one to truly match it but Umbreon is close being black with yellow stripes."

"Well that's really cool, Casey," Ash smiled. Even if she came off as a bit rash, she really does seem like a good kid, whose filled with energy, "and I'll tell you something else. When we were looking for firewood, we ran into an Elekid who wanted to battle. So, after we find my friends again, I'll help you find it since it said he might come back for the battle later."

"You would really do that for me?" Casey asked, "that's so nice! I can feel it, by the end of the day, team case will have a new front runner and his name will be Elekid! Now let's get ready in our heads by singing the Electabuzz theme song!"

As they wondered through the forest, the energetic girl and her grass starter did just that. Ash couldn't help but nervously chuckle at the show, it almost reminded him of his own little celebrations whenever he got a gym badge or caught a new Pokémon... and while he would've liked the chance to battle and train Elekid himself, he knew the pain of wanting so bad to catch a Pokémon and chasing after it so he wouldn't get in anyone else's way.

They soon made it back into the clearing where the tents were already set up and Brock was busy over a fire, cooking up some food. Serena was off with a selection of her own Pokémon, discussing something in a group as most of his team was scattered around in some form of training. Misty was down with her team by the lake. Approaching the group, most stopped their activities and met them near the middle of camp.

"Ash, your back," Serena smiled, greeting him with a peck on the cheek, "oh, and you brought a friend?"

"Yeah, this is Casey," Ash introduced her, "she's a trainer looking for an Elekid and we met whilst we we're getting firewood."

"It's nice to meet you, Casey," Serena held her hand out for a handshake. The energetic baseball fan swiftly returned the gesture with a hearty shake, throwing Ash's girlfriend off balance.

"Hey, you're that girl. The one who won the Johto mega contest thingy in Goldenrod, right?" she asked.

"The Grand Festival?" Serena clarified, regaining her composure, "yeah. I did win that, but it was thanks to my Pokémon. Did you watch it?"

"Not really," Casey shrugged, "but the final happened at the same time as the Electabuzz's verses the Machoke's and they made an announcement on one of the big screens. That's how I know. You really knocked it out of the park if you won the whole festival!"

"Well, thank you," she nervously chuckled.

"So anyway, I told Casey that we'd help her find this wild Elekid," Ash brought the conversation back to the topic at hand, "I found one when looking for firewood so it shouldn't be too hard. Especially if we all go looking."

"But Ash, we only just got the camp set up," Serena replied, "we can't just abandon all our stuff and Brock has already starting cooking."

"Don't worry Serena, I can hang back to watch the camp and take over cooking duties," Misty suggested, "it's not like my team will be much use in tracking or battling an Elekid anyway. Not unless he goes for a swim in the lake."

"Are you sure, Misty?" Serena asked.

"Of course," she smiled, "you two haven't been the only ones getting cooking lessons from Brock. And what sort of gym leader would I be if I didn't offer to help a trainer when I could?"

"So that settles it," Ash replied, "and we might cover more ground if we split up. And Pidgeot should stay here. She has a clear view of the skies so if any of us get lost or find trouble then she would be able to see and assist, so we just launch attacks up into the air."


Serena trekked through the wooded area. Her Beedrill had zoomed ahead, weaving throughout the treelines. Furret wasn't quite as fast but was running around the ground, also searching. Sylveon had her feeler wrapped around her hand as Murkrow flew ahead at a more leisurely pace. Beside her was Brock, who had Stantler walking by his side, and Delibird scouting ahead similar to her own flying type.

"I'll be honest, this isn't what I was expecting to be doing today," she started a conversation, "searching for an Elekid."

"I know what you mean," he smiled, "but then again, it's hard to know exactly what we'll encounter each day of our journey."

"I guess you're right," she smiled.

They continued on in a comfortable silence as the Pokémon continued to scout out the land. Several wild Pokémon appeared but none stayed for a battle or even a conversation. It was mostly small flying types or wild Sentret's. Even some Teddiursa, which both trainers made a mental note to not go in the same direction in an attempt to avoid an angry Ursaring family.

"I've got to say, Serena, you have done a great job," Brock restarted the conversation, inclining his head towards her dark flying type, "with Murkrow, I mean. She was one of the most damaged Pokémon I've ever seen, but you have helped her to open up."

"I wouldn't be so sure," Serena sighed, "I mean, she won't even take part in routine discussions or battle practise. At least Hitmontop listens to me."

"We both know that's only because of your psychic abilities," Brock replied, "he listens to the power, not you."

"Gee thanks," Serena grumbled.

"I didn't mean it that way," Brock sighed, "I'm sure you'll get Hitmontop eventually, but when you first met Murkrow she was so much worst off. She wouldn't fly, spent most of her time in her Pokémon and barely ate. You gave her a friend, by all accounts the first one since her partners passing and now look at her, she has made friends with some of your other Pokémon as well. You've given her a fresh start and helped her through that process."

"Thanks Brock, that actually does help," she smiled, "it just feels like I've been taking a step back for every couple steps I take with her."

"That's still one step forward," Brock pointed out, "and maybe your next step could be starting a performance with her."

"I'm still not sure that's gonna work out," she sighed, "like I said, she hasn't shown any interest in the group discussions or-"

"I wouldn't bet on that, Serena," Brock cut her off, "I was watching your discussion after you set up the tents. She may not have been in the group, but she was focused on you imparticular. Like you said, she isn't exactly friendly with your entire team so it would make sense she wouldn't feel comfortable discussing anything, even potential routines, with them. But I'd bet she'd be interested if you two worked on one together."

"Maybe your right," she admitted, "but showcase performances have a minimum of two Pokémon performers so-"

"So you start with her as the base," Brock shrugged, "once you and her work out a routine, you can bring in someone she feels comfortable with to add to and compliment it. You'll really make a great team; I can tell so why not. You don't even need it ready for your first showcase in Hoenn, you have what, seven different routines in the making?"

"Something like that," she smiled, "Jigglypuff has taken it upon herself to choreograph them back at the ranch. Last I heard she was working on a special water show with Dewgong and Kingdra, although I told her to let Quagsire be a part of it too."

"He does seem like an odd one out in that group," Brock mused.

"Maybe but I think his laidback and playfulness could loosen both Kingdra and Jigglypuff up a bit," she explained, "and then we had an idea of a mix martial arts dance between Farfetch'd and Hitmontop but that's nothing more than an image."

"Isn't hard to see why," Brock nodded, "Farfetch'd is known to hog the spotlight while Hitmontop would punch anyone who tried to make him perform."

"Exactly," she nodded, "then the others we just brainstormed over the last few days. One was a duet between Quilava and Furret, with a bunch of playing and doing tricks and the like. An air dance with Jumpluff and Ledian with sparkles and a mystical element to it and one focusing on Tangrowth's news evolution, how it works being like a massive tree. Furret could play around her, maybe one of the flying types could fly overhead and-"

"Those all sound like good ideas," he smiled.

"Except we can't start that last one until Tangrowth is use to her knew form," she sighed, "with so many ideas, it's hard to know which or when one will be ready for a real showcase."

"Then just focus on one," he explained, "like you said, Jigglypuff has taken over choreography back at the lab and a lot of these involve your more experienced team members so they can handle themselves for the most part. Start simple, like just you and Murkrow and you can build that up yourselves while the others work on their own projects."

"Thanks Brock," she smiled, "how did you get to be so wise?"

"Experience," he shrugged, "I may not have a Pokémon whose been through what Murkrow has, and I may not know much about showcases. But remember my brother, Forest?"

"Of course."

"Well, back when I was running the Pewter Gym, he would spend every moment he could with me there," he explained, "at first, I thought he just disliked the idea of being stuck at home with our siblings and whoever volunteered to help watch them whilst I worked. We couldn't afford a babysitter, but a lot of the elder residents knew our situations and helped out where they could. Forest and myself took over when that wasn't possible, I even needed to bring all of them to the gym for some challengers but those occasions we're rare."

"Anyway, I got of topic. My point is, I learnt that Forest wasn't so much interested in avoiding our siblings or the responsibility as one of the two eldest but more he was interested in taking the leader position. He would watch me from a far and learn what he could about the role."

"But why didn't he just ask you to train him?" Serena asked.

"When I realised it myself, I asked him that same question," Brock turned his gaze up to the sky, "he knew I never wanted to be a gym leader, so he thought I'd be upset at the idea of training him to replace me. I know it sounds silly, but I can understand it, the fear of the unknown."

Serena's eyes glanced at the older breeders nostalgic-filled expression before turning ahead to see her dark flying type. Murkrow was gracefully gliding around trees with minimum effort. It really was a big change from her old recluse self from when they first met.

"I think your right, Brock," she smiled, "I'll speak to Murkrow about it, next training session we have."

A large bolt of lightning struck down through the grey, cloud-filled sky. The two trainers glanced at each other as their Pokémon returned to their side, it didn't require words, and both nodded before heading off in that direction. Either they found Elekid or Pikachu is trying to warn them of something.


Ash smiled as he watched the baseball fan sprint ahead with her own Beedrill by her side. Pikachu was by his feet, tail raised as his cheeks sparked and Phanpy close by, sniffing the ground. He may not have much experience but apparently the ground types have a unique talent for sniffing out things. Of course, he doesn't have the experience of someone like Houndoom but it's worth a shot.

She really reminded him of himself, so full of energy and running of to encounter a new Pokémon.

As his grin widened, he picked up the pace to catch up with her. Their two grass types were close by, using vines to search through nearby bushes and tree trunks. She started to slow her pace as he caught up, so they were back to a milder pace.

"So, no luck so far?" he asked.

"Maybe not, but Elekid isn't far away," she declared, "I can feel it."

"I like your spirit, Casey," he admitted, "makes me want to challenge you, myself. Nothing like a good battle to get to know each other."

"Too right," she smiled, glancing to the side, "and I think we know who we'll end up using."

Ash glanced in the same direction to see both grass types locked in some sort of argument. He noticed the look in his grass types eye, and he knew that

"Sorry about that, Bayleaf isn't known to play nice with others," Ash chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head.

"It's no problem," Casey shrugged, "after all, those that can't win always pick a fight."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Ash asked.

"Just what I said," Casey replied, turning her back, "Bayleaf is Meganium's pre-evolution. Anything she could do, Meganium could do it and do it better. You may have more experience as a trainer but even that won't change facts."

Ash chanced a glance at his grass type, whose wide eyes quickly narrowed. He quickly moved into a position between her and Casey, not wanting her to flatten the purple-haired girl. He knew that if he didn't, then Casey would receive a Body Slam for her troubles.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that, Casey," Ash sighed, "I mean, take my Pikachu for example. He has beaten at least three different Raichu's despite being the pre-evolution. Pokémon are so much more than just a series of numbers, just like how type doesn't guarantee an outcome of a battle, neither does evolution or any other single factor. Each work together with the random factors no-one knows about, meaning no-one can know the outcome before it happens."

"Yeah right," Casey rolled her eyes. Ash felt Bayleaf stop behind him, an angry breath exhaling as he knew she was ready to pounce.

"How about we prove it, a one versus one," Ash suggested, "Bayleaf and me against your Meganium and you."

"Sure, rookie," Casey smirked, "we never back down from a challenge. Not to mention, it might teach ya a thing or two before the conference."

Ash sighed and shook his head, he didn't want to sound mean or even pick on her, but Casey's attitude is very abrasive, like her thoughts are fact. It's not nearly as bad as Paul, or even how Gary use to be but if he learnt one thing then the best way to counter that attitude is to knock it out. Turning towards his grass type, he smiled and gave her a wink. Obviously, a promise of a battle would stop her from flattening this girl.

"Well we're gonna need to put that battle on hold," Pikachu announced, "I can feel something... electrical."

"Electrical?" Ash questioned.

He was cut off by a large bolt of lightning, brightening the sky as it struck down near here.

"That must be Elekid, trying to feed on the lightening," Casey exclaimed, darting off in the direction of the electricity, "come on!"


Ash continued to run; the thunder bolts launched into the sky getting closer with every step. Pikachu was running by his feet and Casey was just ahead as she seemed to easily out speed him.

It was a little jarring, considering he was always the fastest in their group but considering her endless energy and love for baseball, it wasn't too surprising.

They soon came out of the forest line and into a wide-open clearing. Glancing around, Ash spotted a small little electric Pokémon stood in the middle of the grassy meadow. Spinning its arms around, small bolts shot up out of its plug-shaped horns.

Pikachu darted forward and launched a Thunderbolt right at him. Elekid seemed to smirk within the electricity and cheered out.

"What did Pikachu do that for?" Casey asked, a Pokéball already in her hand, "he couldn't have waited until after I caught him?"

"It's never a good idea to battle on an empty stomach," Pikachu explained as he ran back to Ash's side. A quick glance behind showed both his and Casey's grass types approaching with his keeping a noticeable distance.

"What's the fun in an easy challenge?" Ash asked. Knowing it was his way of getting back at her for the disbelief of him beating a Raichu.

Casey stepped forward shaking her head and taking out a Pokéball. Elekid seemed to notice this and approached and entered their own battle stand, gesturing for her to bring it. She held her device in a pitcher's stance, "you're up to bat, Girafarig!"

Tossing her device into the air, like a player would throw a Pokéball. It burst open above her and her normal psychic type appeared on the field. Despite being much larger than the electric type, it didn't seem nearly as intimidating.

"Astonish!" Casey shouted.

Girafarig charged forward, quickly entering a steady galop at a decent speed. It wasn't the fastest Pokémon by any means, but it certainly wasn't slow.

Elekid cried out and spun his arms around. Sparks of electricity shot out of its horn-plugs as Girafarig closed in.

Slamming his front legs down, the long neck Pokémon spun around. Her tail snapped forward and knocked Elekid off balance.

"And it's a home run!" Casey cheered.

Elekid pushed himself up and slide forward on his back. His leg slammed into Girafarig's and knocked her over.

"You need to focus!" Ash called out.

The electric Pokémon began to spin his arms around once more. A powerful circle of electricity expanded out once more.

"Confusion!" Casey cried out.

Girafarig struggled back onto her feet as her antenna's wiggled. A wave of blue psychic type energy shot out and clashed with the Shock Wave.

The two waves smashed together and as they attempted to overpower each other, they entered a tug of war of push and pull. "You can push it, just power through it!"

Ash shook his head. He knew it was a dangerous play, just trying to overpower an opponent would end one of two ways without much room for error.

The two attacks exploded, and a cloud of smoke engulfed both Pokémon.

As he waited for the smoke to clear, he noticed his friends all gather behind them. They must've met up on the run over here, not that it really mattered as their expressions indicated a change on the field. Turning back, he saw the smoke fading out.

Girafarig was on her side, with Elekid straddling over her neck. The electric type was just punching down on her face as sparks of electricity consumed both.

"You have to get up, Girafarig!" Casey called out.

Another wave of psychic type energy expanded outward. Elekid was sent flying and face planted the dirt as the long neck Pokémon struggled back to her feet.

Ash couldn't help but shake his head at that predicament. He didn't know how long Casey has been training her Girafarig imparticular, but she should've known better. Elekid took one of the weakest stance an opponent could which is how Girafarig broke free but if it were more experienced-

His thoughts we're cut short.

Girafarig stampede forward towards the electric Pokémon. As she was about to slam into it, Elekid swiped its leg and knocked Girafarig off balance.

Casey's normal psychic type stumbled forward, and land landed once more. Elekid stood behind and spun his arms. A massive bolt of electricity burst out.

As the element faded, Elekid stood to one side revealing Girafarig covered in char with swirls replacing her eyes. Casey was quick to recall her long neck Pokémon and cast a look down on the device now holding her.

"We might be down and out but it's the bottom of the ninth and now we need a home run to bring it home," Casey declared, swapping her Pokéballs, "so you're up to bat, Umbreon!"

Pitching her Pokéball like she did previously. In a flash of light, her dark type eeveelution appeared on the field. Elekid seemed to smirk and made a 'come at me' gesture with its claw. Unlike Gary's Umbreon, who always held a stance of arrogance, Casey's was crouched down, ready to pounce.

Elekid spun his arms around once more. Electricity sparked off it, shooting off towards Casey's second Pokémon.

He jumped, barely dodging the Thunder shock, twisting in the air as he landed on all four. Charging forward, he disappeared from view with a Quick Attack.

Slamming into the electric Pokémon, Elekid went flying as Umbreon leaped backwards. Elekid landed face first on the dirt as Umbreon jumped.

A purple ball of ghost type energy formed at his mouth as he looped around. Launching it, the shadow ball landed directly on Elekid.

"Going for the ultimate grand slam, Ace Pitcher Casey steps up to the plate," she makes an appropriate stance with an empty Pokéball in hand. Pulling it back and launching the device. It flew across the grassy meadow and struck Elekid, sucking him inside. It landed on the ground and wobbled back and forth before coming to a stop with a ding, signalling a successful capture, "and it's a home run for team Electabuzz!"

Her Umbreon picked up the Pokéball in his mouth and ran it back towards her. She kneeled to greeted him and rubbed the top of his head in affection, even if she is all about offence and can be a little forward, she clearly does care about her team and is a good trainer... just a little rough around the edges.

As she stood up, she pulled out her Pokedex and scanned her new capture. He was just close enough to catch its assessment:

Elekid, The Electric Pokémon. The baby pre-evolution of Electabuzz. Elekid stores electricity in its body. If it touches metal and accidentally discharges all its built-up electricity, this Pokémon begins swinging its arms in circles to recharge itself. Its known to gather on high mountains for Thunderstorms to recharge.

Type: Electric

Ability: Static

Hidden Ability: Vital Spirit (Note: The hidden ability is locked)

Gender: Male

Nature: Adamant (Note: This nature could change when this Pokémon evolves)

Move(s): Quick Attack, Leer, Thunder Shock, Low Kick, Shock Wave

"Well he seems like a good strong teammate for your first league challenge," Ash praised, "and if your open to suggestions, he seems to focus a lot on his arms. Maybe try teaching him the elemental punches. Thunder punch to start with."

"How would you know?" Casey asked, "I mean, you don't exactly have one yourself."

"Maybe not, but I've faced them before," Ash explained, "I have a rival who seems to favour his Electabuzz actually. It's a tough Pokémon if trained well and I have faced it many times. So, trust me, the elemental punches are a good starting point. Allows him to grow stronger, focus and also gives him coverage."

"We'll bare that in mind," Casey smiled, "but now it's time for the grudge match of the season. You ready?"

"Huh?" Ash questioned.

"I thought your Bayleaf wanted to battle Meganium," Casey explained, "not sure I see the point, for Meganium at least, but we never back down from a challenge."

That actually made quite a bit of sense that she didn't use Meganium against Elekid despite it clearly being her best option as not only her strongest team member but also one with a resistance to electric attacks. Then again, Ash barely cared about type advantage so he couldn't really judge and it's not like the ones she picked we're at a disadvantage by any means.

Bayleaf cried out as she stepped forward and made Casey stumble backwards.

"What was that for?" Casey asked.

"I... don't think your old enough to know what she said," Ash gulped, his grass type never did like being underestimated, "but we should get this battle started before she gets tired of waiting."


Ash took a deep breath, the wind blowing through his hair as Bayleaf stood in front of him. They returned to their campsite and we're ready for the battle between these two grass types from the same evolution line. Ash's Leaf Pokémon was tall, and her narrowed eyes showed she was ready to battle. Her unflinching glared locked on the much larger grass type. Meganium also stood tall, looming over her pre-evolution but her expression was much more relaxed, a confident smirk spread on her lips. He could barely make out Casey behind her starter, as Brock took up the referee position between them.

"This will be a one on one battle between Bayleaf and Meganium!" the breeder announced, "no time limit or subs, let's begin!"

Bayleaf swung the leaf on her head around. A series of fast sharp leaves shot out, rapid fire.

Meganium had several large vines extend out of her body. They whipped back and forth, effectively slamming each leaf before they made contact.

As the Razor Leaf barrage came to an end, Meganium's vines shot forward. Bayleaf extended her own vines and used them to knock her evolved forms out of the way. It slowed them down but not for long and they soon re-directed back towards her.

Bayleaf pushed her own vines down against the ground and leaped high into the air. Using her body weight, she soared over the field, tensing up for impact.

Casey's starter roared as pink petals began orbiting around her. A tornado of petals erupted upwards and collided on Bayleaf's underside.

Ash's pure grass type landed hard on her side. She grunted hard as she stood up, a second Petal Dance forming around the fully evolved grass type.

"Light Screen!" Ash shouted.

Bayleaf cried out as a yellow box formed around her. The second wave of Petal Dance shot forward and struck her. Ash's Leaf Pokémon grunted in pain as she was pushed back. Regaining a stable footing, she dug deep and came to a complete stop.

Meganium's eyes became clouded as she wobbled on her feet. The yellow box fading to reveal Bayleaf looking ready to go.

"Light Screen?" Casey called out, "you actually use those tricks? Is offence or no-fence!"

"Erm, well, yeah Bayleaf knows a few defensive moves," Ash stuttered, "but she isn't so big on them, which is why I need to remind her."

Shaking his head, he realised Casey was trying to distract him whilst her Meganium was confused. He began laughing as his Leaf Pokémon became impatient and launched out another barrage of Razor Leaves.

Meganium flinched as they struck her. Lowering her head, she tried to defend against the onslaught attack.

"Add in a Poison Powder," Ash shouted, "we need to work on evening the odds since she's your evolved form."

He could've sworn his Bayleaf scoffed but as she launched another wave of Razor Leaves with a purple trail. They struck the fully evolved grass type, who had a purple line cover her nose as she continued to try and protect herself.

"Use vine whip and make it a home run!" Casey yelled.

Meganium stood her ground and extended upwards, the leaves now striking her chest. Despite the grimacing from the poison covered leaves, she launched out a series of vines. They began to whip down the leaves but not nearly as efficiently as the start.

Bayleaf ended her barrage and sent out her own vines. Even with less vines, Bayleaf's wrapped around Meganium's and began pulling her forward.

Casey's starter stumbled but gritted her teeth and stood tall as she pulled back. Due to the weight difference, Ash knew his grass type would be overpowered.

"We need to knock her off balance!" Ash shouted.

Bayleaf grunted something and gave one hefty pull backwards. She rose up on her hind-legs before slamming them down. The ground began shaking.

"Where did your Bayleaf learn Earthquake?!" Casey asked in a panic.

"Mostly from my Tauros," Ash admitted, "she's planning on beating up a Typhlosion at the league. We wanted her to have a good counter for it."

As the ground shook, Meganium struggled to stand. She kneeled down on one knee as Bayleaf regained control of the Vine Whip tug of war.

Bayleaf charged forward with the ground shaking after each leap. Her body began glowing bright white as she grew in size. She gave one last leap and soared high over the field as her evolution finished. Throwing her body weight down, she landed on her opponent who cried out in pain.

Climbing off Casey's starter, Ash's pure grass type walked back towards him. He pulled out his Pokedex to check out his new evolution:

Meganium, The Herb Pokémon. The final evolved form of Chikorita. The fragrance of Meganium's flower soothes and calms emotions. In battle, this Pokémon gives off more of its becalming scent to blunt the foe's fighting spirit. This Pokémon is even known for having great healing abilities for both plants, people, and Pokémon.

Type: Grass

Ability: Overgrow

Hidden Ability: Leaf Guard (Note: The hidden ability is locked)

Gender: Female

Nature: Mild (Note: This nature is unlikely to change because this Pokémon is fully evolved)

Move(s): Petal Dance, Tackle, Growl, Razor Leaf, Poison Powder, Razor Leaf, Synthesis, Reflect, Magical Leaf, Natural Gift, Sweet Scent, Light Screen, Body Slam, Safeguard, Aromatherapy, Solar Beam, Earthquake, Energy Ball, Grass Whistle, Ingrain, Leech Seed, Vine Whip, Wring Out, Giga Drain,

Smiling at her, she held a confident smirk, clearly believing triumphant. Ash glanced behind her to see Brock make the call.

Instead he saw Casey's starter struggling to her feet behind his own Meganium. She formed a green ball at her head and launched it.

"Look out!" Ash called out.

His grass type turned around and swung her long neck around. She sent out a single Razor Leaf. It shot across the field and cut the Energy Ball up. Casey's attack was split in half and it landed either side of her, exploding into smoke.

The newly evolved Meganium launched out several thick vines. They struck Casey's starter on the underbelly and sent her flying.

She landed flat on her stomach right in front of Ash's, as she loomed over her opponent. A dazed looked glanced up at the newly evolved Pokémon.

"Stay down," his Meganium growled.

Casey's Meganium closed her eyes and her head slumped down on the ground. Brock moved closed to investigate.

"And Casey's Meganium is unable to continue," Brock declared, kneeling next to her, "making the winners Ash and his Meganium."

Brock slide his backpack off his back and took out a super potion bottle. He sprayed Casey's starter with the medicine, and she began to stir back awake as he held out a peacha berry which she ate.

"Aren't you going to help heal her, Meganium?" Ash asked, as he watched Casey approach, "maybe Aromatherapy or-"

"Really wasn't planning on it," Meganium shook her head, "but I would like you to send Muk out. I want to properly test my new power so I need something that can take a hit or three."

"Alright, fine," Ash shook his head, taking the device out before releasing his pure poison type, "just don't blow anything up."

Meganium rolled her eyes and began to walk away towards another clearing. She glanced back and gestured for Muk to follow her. Ash looked at his sludge Pokémon who looked up at him expectantly.

"Do you mind, Muk?" Ash asked, "you know how she gets."

His poison type gave a cheesy smile and hugged his legs before slivering off. Ash turned around to look at Casey who was sat by her starter, whose head was resting on her lap as she strokes her affectionately.

"You hit it out of the park, Meganium," she praised, turning towards the Pokémon breeder, "and thank you for helping her, Brock. You're a real home runner."

"No problem, it's what I do," Brock smiled, standing back up.

"But there's one thing I don't get," Casey explained, "how did your Bayleaf match Meganium? She is the pre-evolved form and-"

"Hold on, Casey, evolution isn't everything," Ash stopped her, "and you shouldn't think that an evolved form always has the advantage."

"But why?" Casey asked, "I always thought a Pokémon evolves when they get more powerful so by logic, Meganium is always more powerful than a Bayleaf."

"That's technically true but evolution is more than just raw power," Ash kneeled to be closer to her level, "it's also triggered by several factors. Age, power, health, and maybe even some we don't know about. Take Pikachu for example, if he were to evolve then he wouldn't be nearly as fast even if he got more bulk to take a hit better. Of course, Pokémon can even hold off on their own evolutions so it's not an exact science."

"Pretty sure Professor Oak would disagree to an extent," Misty pipped in.

"But my point is, there are several reasons why Bayleaf wouldn't have evolved before this point," Ash explained, "but even as two trainers, I have well over a year of experience over you. And so, I was able to train my Meganium in ways you wouldn't have."

"Gee thanks," Casey mumbled.

"I don't mean it as an insult," Ash replied, "and your Meganium was stronger. Likely a side effective of her being on your team more often, ya know, since you have a smaller roster to work with. Which would explain why yours evolved sooner even if we've had them for roughly the same amount of time."

"It almost sounds like your trying to build up my confidence," Casey laughed.

"Maybe I am but that's because we're both about to compete in the Silver conference," Ash smiled.

"That makes no sense," Casey shook her head.

"Of course it does," Ash stood up with a flame of determination burning through his veins, "the true joy of tournaments isn't in winning but in experiencing good battles and seeing the hard work each trainer has put and getting to test each other regardless of the final outcome."

"In that case we can sing you the anthem to make sure we're both ready for our rematch in the conference!" Casey announced, jumping to her feet as her starter stood up as well.

She took out her Pokéballs and released her team of Girafarig, Umbreon, Beedrill, Elekid and Pidgeot. She brought out some banners and other items used to celebrate in a baseball game, handing them out to her team.

"Let's all cheer Electabuzz, the greatest team of all! The players charge the field and Double Team the ball! They're the crew with Mega Punch when they are in a crunch! Metronome! Same at home! Hyper Beam too! Win! Win! Through thick and thin! Elect-A-Buzz it's you!"


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