AUTHOR'S NOTE: Greetings, readers! Here is chapter 115 of the continuing adventures of Tristan, Hillary, and Pikachu as they continue their journey through the Johto region. As you know, Tristan has been on a winning streak on every major battle until now, but I didn't want to have him be invincible, if you know where I'm getting at. This time, I'm willing to let Tristan lose this battle because he still has a lot more to learn from his defeats than from his victories. Plus, we see the ending of the Johto League Silver Conference! And as a bonus, Tristan and Hillary run into Ash, Misty, and Brock one last time and talk about what they learned about the GS Ball. So it looks like we're getting very close to the end of this story, but I have other things planned after that. Please stay tuned to see what will happen. And as always, please feel free to read and review responsibly at your leisure.
TEASER: Tristan continues his battle against Shen, but even though the odds are in his favor, will he be able to win against his powerful Dragonite? And who will win the Johto League Silver Conference? Will it be Tristan, Shen, or someone else? Plus, a pleasant surprise reunion with Ash, Misty, and Brock has them talking about what they have learned regarding the mysterious GS Ball! And when the Silver Conference ends, Lugia and Silveena finally settle into their new home together at last.
Chapter 115: TRISTAN VS. SHEN, PART 2
(Music Cue: Movie Title 2000 (as heard in the Japanese version of "Emperor of the Crystal Tower: Entei"))
As the Johto League Silver Conference moved into the second round of the Victory Tournament, Tristan found himself matched against Shen, one of Braden's longtime friends.
Things were going smoothly for Tristan until the second half when Shen's Tyranitar and Umbreon made things problematic for him. Then Shen sent out his strongest Pokémon, Dragonite.
The odds may be in Tristan's favor now, but will Dragonite be too much for Tristan's three remaining Pokémon to handle? Or will he be able to somehow defeat Dragonite and move on to the Best Four in the Johto League Silver Conference? Stay tuned!
"Ladies and gentlemen," boomed the announcer, "if you're just joining us, only one Pokémon remains for Shen while Tristan still has three. Shen's final Pokémon is Dragonite while Tristan is currently using Pikachu."
"This is going to be a tough battle for Tristan to win," said Evan nervously.
"Yeah, I know," agreed Braden. "I knew Shen would save his Dragonite for last, but knowing him, he's been training it since the last time I saw them both in action."
"Come on, Pikachu!" shouted Hillary. "Shock it to 'em!"
"Go, Tristan!" cheered Rachael and Stuart together.
Togepi cheered as loudly as it could for Tristan and Pikachu.
"Pikachu, Thunderbolt, go!" ordered Tristan.
(Music Cue: Legendary Birds Freed (second part as heard in the Japanese version of "Revelation Lugia"))
Pikachu unleashed a powerful bolt of yellow electricity at Dragonite.
"Dodge it, Dragonite!" commanded Shen.
Quick as a flash, Dragonite rose up high into the air and avoided Pikachu's attack.
"Talk about fast!" boomed the announcer. "Dragonite used its high speed to dodge Pikachu's Thunderbolt!"
"That's a very fast Dragonite," remarked Veronica nervously. "I've heard that Dragonite can circle the globe in just 16 hours."
"Whoa! Sixteen hours?!" gasped Evan. "That's nuts!"
"Yeah," agreed Hillary. "And with that high rate of speed coupled with the capability of flying, who knows what else it can do!"
"All right, Pikachu, use Thunder at full power now!" commanded Tristan.
Using all the power it had, Pikachu unleashed a powerful yellow bolt of electricity at Dragonite.
"Hyper Beam!" shouted Shen.
Dragonite unleashed a powerful golden beam of energy from its mouth to counter Pikachu's Thunder.
Both attacks collided, creating a huge explosion of smoke.
Unfortunately, Hyper Beam managed to break through the smoke and scored a huge direct hit on Pikachu, sending it flying and crashing into the ground, knocking it out instantly.
"Pikachu!" cried Tristan.
"Pikachu is unable to battle...Dragonite is the winner!" declared the referee as he raised his red flag in the air.
Tristan quickly ran onto the slippery battlefield to collect Pikachu.
"That's a shame," said Veronica sadly. "Pikachu lost."
"Yes, but it battled really well, despite Dragonite's power," agreed Eric.
"I wonder what Tristan will do next, Grandpa," said Hillary.
"Well, Tristan realizes that Dragonite is a tough opponent," replied Eric. "And he won't give up until it's truly over."
"Blastoise, I choose you!" shouted Tristan as he threw his Poké Ball.
Blastoise emerged from the white light that shot out of it.
"Blastoise comes out for a second appearance," said the announcer.
"You've gotta be careful, Blastoise," advised Tristan. "That Dragonite's really strong."
Blastoise nodded in agreement.
"Ice Beam attack, go!" ordered Tristan.
Blastoise launched a powerful ice-cold beam of energy from its mouth at Dragonite.
"Dodge it!" commanded Shen.
Once again, Dragonite flew high into the air and dodged Blastoise's attack, but not for long.
"Stay on it, Blastoise!" shouted Tristan.
Still launching Ice Beam, Blastoise concentrated its aim on the still flying Dragonite until it hit its target.
"Dragonite gets hit by Blastoise's Ice Beam!" boomed the announcer, "proving once again that Ice attacks are a Dragon Pokémon's greatest weakness!"
"Don't give up, Dragonite!" encouraged Shen.
Dragonite managed to take the damage until it finally broke free of Blastoise's Ice Beam.
"No way!" gasped Tristan.
"Dragonite escapes Blastoise's icy onslaught!" boomed the announcer. "That Dragonite has proven that it can take whatever its opponent can dish out!"
"Ice attacks may be a Dragon Pokémon's greatest weakness, Tristan, and that was a smart strategy," commended Shen. "However, I raised my Dragonite to be strong and fast, and trained it to help endure those brutal attacks."
Shen's right, thought Tristan. That Dragonite is one of the toughest Pokémon I've ever seen. Drake's Dragonite was tough, too, but Shen's Dragonite seems to know know bounds. I've gotta try something to end this fast. "All right, Blastoise, let's try using Rain Dance!" he instructed aloud.
Blastoise launched two big drops of water from its cannons into the sky, causing the weather to turn cloudy and gray.
Seconds later, big drops of rain fell from the sky.
"Well, there's been another change in the weather," said the announcer. "This time, you'll need to grab the umbrella."
"Now Blastoise's Water attacks will get powered up, right?" asked Evan.
"That's right," agreed Hillary. "Blastoise's Hydro Pump will certainly get a big boost from that Rain Dance. That should help Tristan clinch the match, right?"
Braden had his doubts. "I don't think Tristan should celebrate just yet, especially if Dragonite knows the attack I think it knows."
Hillary, Rachael, and Stuart gasped in shock while Veronica and Eric looked on with concern.
"Thunder!" commanded Shen.
Dragonite launched two bolts of lightning from its antennae into the sky.
Seconds later, the bolts came crashing down toward the ground.
"Quick, Blastoise, Withdraw!" shouted Tristan.
Blastoise quickly withdrew its head and limbs into its shell, but the force of Dragonite's attack, caused it to suffer an immense amount of damage.
"Blastoise!" cried Tristan as Pikachu gasped in worry.
"What a shocker!" boomed the announcer. "Blastoise got zapped by that powerful Thunder attack!"
Blastoise fell to the ground and fainted, having taken too much damage from Dragonite's Thunder.
"Blastoise is unable to battle...Dragonite wins!" declared the referee as he raised his red flag in the air to a roaring crowd.
(Music Cue: Three on Three ( starting at 2:08 as heard in "Pokémon the First Movie"))
"I was afraid this would happen," said Braden sadly.
"You're right," agreed Veronica. "That Rain Dance may have helped Shen more than it helped Tristan, for as long as it's in effect, Thunder is almost a guaranteed hit."
"Ladies and gentlemen, as incredible as it sounds, both Trainers are down to their last Pokémon," said the announcer. "What will Tristan's final Pokémon be?"
Tristan took out his last Poké Ball and held it close to him. "It's time, old friend. Pidgeot, I choose you!" he shouted as he threw the ball.
Pidgeot emerged from the white light that shot out of it. It gave a loud cry, indicating the amount of strength it had.
"Tristan's final Pokémon is Pidgeot," said the announcer. "This last battle will decide the match, and this battle will take place high in the sky."
"Yeah, go, Pidgeot!" cheered Hillary.
"You can do it!" yelled Rachael and Stuart together as Togepi cheered loudly.
"So, Pidgeot's up, eh?" smiled Shen. "So be it: we'll settle this in the skies!"
"I was hoping you'd say that," replied Tristan eagerly.
"Now, fly, Dragonite!"
"You, too, Pidgeot!"
Dragonite and Pidgeot flew high and fast into the air as the rain continued to fall in sheets and the thunder boomed.
All of Tristan and Hillary's Legendary Pokémon friends were anxiously watching while getting drenched in the rain.
This feels like a battle of epic proportions, remarked Silveena nervously. Then she turned from nervous to excited. This is too good not to watch!
Let's hope Tristan can come out on top, added Lugia.
"Pidgeot, Gust attack!" commanded Tristan.
Pidgeot furiously flapped its wings, creating huge gusts of wind that enveloped Dragonite.
"Pidgeot scores an early hit with Gust," said the announcer. "And considering how powerful these two Pokémon are, I'd say this is a powerful one."
"Now, Dragonite, Twister!" instructed Shen.
Dragonite flapped its wings furiously, creating a gigantic tornado that headed straight for Pidgeot.
"Dodge it!" ordered Tristan.
Pidgeot flew away from the attack as fast as its wings would carry it, but Twister ended up enveloping it seconds later.
"Dragonite strikes back with Twister!" boomed the announcer. "Folks, these two Flying Pokémon are putting on an incredible display of strength!"
"This is bad," said Veronica nervously. "Twister will do twice as much damage on a Pokémon that's airborne. Pidgeot could be in for some serious trouble."
"I know Tristan will find a way to get himself out of it," replied Eric. "But it won't be easy."
"Now, Pidgeot, use Mirror Move!" instructed Tristan.
A mirror shone in front of Pidgeot, then it copied the same image of Dragonite's Twister, which rapidly closed in on Dragonite.
"Hurry, Dragonite, dodge it!" ordered Shen.
Dragonite tried as fast as it could to fly away from it, but Pidgeot's attack caught up to it and scored a direct hit on it.
"Pidgeot's Mirror Move deals Dragonite a taste of its own medicine!" boomed the announcer. "Folks, we're talking about an epic battle in the sky! It's clearly anyone's battle!"
"Dragonite, use Thunder!" yelled Shen.
Dragonite launched two more powerful bolts of electricity in the sky.
Seconds later, they came down on Pidgeot and scored a direct hit on it.
"Dragonite's Thunder attack hits hard!" boomed the announcer.
"Use Mirror Move again, go!" shouted Tristan.
Once again, a mirror reflecting Dragonite's attack appeared in front of Pidgeot, and a powerful bolt of electricity shot out of it right at Dragonite, scoring a direct hit on it.
"Pidgeot strikes back with a copy of Dragonite's Thunder!" boomed the announcer. "These two Flying Pokémon have their pride on the line!"
"You know something, Tristan? Your Pidgeot's really strong," smiled Shen.
"Oh, yeah? Well, your Dragonite's really good, too!" replied Tristan.
"Now, Dragonite, use Outrage!" instructed Shen.
Dragonite surrounded itself in a red aura, and then it used its limbs and scaly tail to deal serious damage to Pidgeot.
"Dragonite's Outrage attack scores big time!" boomed the announcer.
Dragonite's too powerful to deal with directly, thought Tristan. I have to stop it somehow. I'll try from a safe distance. "Pidgeot, move back and use Gust attack!" he instructed aloud.
Pidgeot tried to flap its wings, but suddenly, Dragonite moved in and attacked again, scoring another direct hit, much to Tristan and Pikachu's shock. It then hit the ground hard.
"Dragonite proves what a brawny battler it is," said the announcer. "Its continued assaults are giving Pidgeot no time to strike back."
"Hang in there, Pidgeot!" encouraged Tristan. "You've gotta get up!"
Pidgeot struggled back to its feet. Then it flew into the air again.
"Way to go, Pidgeot!" commended Tristan. "Let's show Dragonite that we don't give up! Use Mirror Move!"
Another mirror shone in front of Pidgeot, and then seconds later, Pidgeot started to attacks using its wings, beak, and talons, which was the same way Dragonite attacked it, scoring multiple direct hits in the process.
"Dragonite!" exclaimed Shen.
"Incredible!" boomed the announcer. "Pidgeot's Mirror Move produces Outrage! And since Dragon-type attacks have an advantage over Dragon-type Pokémon, Dragonite will certainly be feeling the pressure!"
"I can't believe how strong Dragonite and Pidgeot are!" remarked Rachael excitedly.
"Yes, Mom," agreed Veronica. "Tristan and Shen have proven to be very strong competitors. I think everyone can see why they both made it to the Quarterfinals."
"But only one thing matters: crossing the finish line first," said Braden. "But I'm still not sure whom I should be rooting for."
Pidgeot and Dragonite kept scoring direct hits on each other using Outrage without giving an inch. Then a moment later, they panted for air as they stared each other down.
"What do you say, Tristan? Shall we end this match with one final move?" suggested Shen.
Tristan was a little confused, but then he understood what Shen meant. "You bet I am, Shen. Let's decide this once and for all."
(Music Cue: Lugia Appears! (as heard in the Japanese version of "Revelation Lugia"))
"Hyper Beam, full power!" they commanded together.
Dragonite unleashed a powerful golden beam of energy from its mouth while Pidgeot unleashed its own from its beak.
Both attacks collided as both Pokémon tried to push the other's attack back. Seconds later, there was a tremendous explosion from the collision, creating a huge cloud of smoke that shook the whole stadium.
Tristan and Shen both covered their eyes as it took place.
"The force of both Hyper Beam attacks has created a huge explosion," said the announcer. "But it's unclear who will come out on top."
A moment later, the smoke cleared, revealing that both Pidgeot and Dragonite had collapsed on the icy battlefield as the sky started to clear up.
"Unbelievable!" boomed the announcer. "The explosion seems to have knocked out both Pokémon!"
Both Pokémon slowly and desperately struggled to get back on their feet.
"Come on, Pidgeot, I know you can do it!" encouraged Tristan.
Pidgeot continued to struggle as it heard Tristan's words of encouragement.
"Stand up, Dragonite!" encouraged Shen. "You can do it, pal!"
Dragonite continued trying to get back up as fast as it could, but the injuries it had sustained made it difficult.
A moment later, Pidgeot managed to stand up to its full height with its wings fully expanded, and gave a loud squawk, showing that it would never quit.
Dragonite got back up to its full height, too, and gave a mighty roar to show its strength.
"Both Pidgeot and Dragonite managed to get back on their feet!" boomed the announcer. "This battle is still not over yet, folks! But only one of these two spirited Trainers will emerge victorious from this heart-stopping battle! Which one will it be?!"
Outside the stadium, all of Tristan and Hillary's Legendary Pokémon friends, including Lugia and Silveena watched anxiously to see which one of them would be the winner.
Pidgeot and Dragonite continued to stare each other down, waiting to see which one of them would face defeat.
Dragonite started to waver, but hung on by the skin of its teeth.
However, Pidgeot fell forward to the ground with a dazed expression in its eyes. It had been knocked out.
"Pidgeot is unable to battle...Dragonite wins!" declared the referee as he raised his red flag in the air. "The winning Trainer is Shen from Silver Town!"
(Music Cue: My Friend, Pokémon)
The crowd roared in excitement at the revelation.
Shen, who was confused, began to smile after the surprising turnaround.
Tristan, who was shocked, bent his head low in disappointment.
"Shen has defeated Tristan, and will now move on to the semifinals," said the announcer. "And now, Tristan, having had his first challenge interrupted and cancelled at the Indigo Plateau, now knows his ranking as one of the eight gifted Trainers who made it to the quarterfinals."
Tristan's friends and family were also disappointed by the outcome.
"Poor Tristan," said Hillary sadly. "He worked so hard to get here, and he had his best team, too."
Togepi trilled just as sadly in agreement.
"Shen was just a little too good," added Evan.
"Tristan may be sad right now, but you know what?" replied Veronica.
"What?" asked Evan and Hillary together.
"I doubt that he has any regrets."
"Grandma's right," agreed Braden. "I'm sad for Tristan, too, but I'm happy that one of our friends won."
"Shen may have won," added Eric. "But he and Tristan are both winners in our book."
"You said it, dear," smiled Veronica.
Tristan stood on the field for what seemed like a long time. Then he thought, I did everything I could, and this is the result. But it's okay. Because now I finally know how far I've come, and how far I can keep on going. He walked over with Pikachu to the battlefield to Pidgeot. "Hey, thanks, Pidgeot," he commended. "You battled really hard out there today. I couldn't be any more proud of you."
Pidgeot gave a weak, but happy reply as Tristan helped it up to its feet.
Presently, Shen walked over with Dragonite. "You were great, too, Tristan. You gave me a real run for my money. That was a battle I won't forget."
"Thank you, Shen," replied Tristan. "You and your Pokémon were really strong, too. I hope you make it all the way to victory."
"Thanks, Tristan. I'll do my best for you and Braden."
Tristan and Shen exchanged a handshake as the crowd continued to roar in excitement.
(Music Cue: Ash and Sam's Friendship as heard in "Pokémon 4Ever"))
"Hey, thanks for coming to cheer me on, guys," said Tristan as he and Hillary met their Legendary Pokémon friends, who were getting ready to leave, outside the stadium that evening. "I couldn't have made it this far without your support."
Raikou, Entei, Suicune, Celebi, Mew, Articuno, Zapdos, and Moltres, as well as their offspring all gave happy replies.
The Legendary Birds took off into the air while the Legendary Beasts started running off in different directions.
"Bye, guys!" called Hillary. "See you again soon!" And she, Togepi, Pikachu, and Tristan waved until they were out of sight.
Mewtwo and Mew then turned to Tristan.
We need to get going as well, Mewtwo said.
"What? You're leaving, too?" Tristan was confused.
Yes, but don't worry, we'll see each other soon, Mewtwo assured him. In fact, it may be sooner than you think.
Mew flew into Tristan and Hillary's arms, and they each gave it a hug before flying off with Mewtwo.
"Thanks a lot, guys!" called Tristan as he and Hillary waved. "Take care!"
Lugia and Silveena then turned to Tristan.
Sorry about your loss, Tristan, said Lugia.
Yes, we were both hoping you'd win, added Silveena.
"It's okay, guys," replied Tristan. "I did my best out there, and I know my dream of becoming a Pokémon Master will come true someday."
That's the attitude, smiled Lugia. And I know you'll be able to do it.
"Yeah, what Lugia said," agreed Hillary.
Presently, Braden, Evan, Veronica, Eric, Rachael, and Stuart arrived.
"Hey, kids, we just thought we'd stop by and say goodbye before going back home," said Veronica.
"Why so soon, Grandma?" wondered Tristan.
"We'll need to get your great-grandparents back to the Goldenrod City Daycare Center before your grandfather and I start going back home," explained Veronica.
"We understand, Grandma," replied Hillary. She gave Rachael and Stuart a hug first. "Thanks for coming, guys. It was great seeing you."
"We enjoyed your company," smiled Rachael. "And we enjoyed seeing Tristan compete, too."
"I appreciate that, too, guys," added Tristan as he also gave Rachael and Stuart a hug.
"Keep doing your best, okay?" said Stuart.
"You bet!" agreed Tristan.
Then as Evan and Braden gave Rachael and Stuart their hugs, Tristan and Hillary gave hugs to Veronica and Eric.
Tristan said to Veronica, "We'll be coming back to New Bark Town as soon as the tournament's over, Grandma."
"That'd be great, dear," replied Veronica. "We'll plan something big on your return."
"Take care, grand-sonny," added Eric. "Oh, by the way, how's Pidgeot doing after that battle?"
"Pidgeot's gonna be just fine, Grandpa," answered Tristan. "All of my Pokémon are going to make full recoveries."
"That's excellent news," smiled Eric. "They all battled hard, and deserve a treat for battling so hard."
"I'll be sure to give them one."
"Goodbye, kids," said Veronica as she, Eric, Rachael, and Stuart turned to leave. "We'll see you soon. And, Lugia, take good care of Tristan. You, too, Pikachu."
I will, don't worry, promised Lugia.
Pikachu nodded in agreement as well as it waved back.
"Bye, Grandma! Bye, Grandpa!" called Tristan and Hillary.
"Bye Great-Grandma Rachael! Bye, Great-Grandpa Stuart!" added Evan and Braden.
And the children waved until their grandparents and great-grandparents were out of sight.
"Hey, everybody, let's go over to the Pokémon Center and have something to eat!" suggested Hillary. "Shen should be meeting us there soon."
"Great idea," agreed Tristan. "I'm starving! After that big battle today, I could use a little energy. Last one there's a rotten Exeggcute!" And he started running over as fast as he could with Pikachu hot on his heels.
"Hey, no fair! Wait up!" called Evan as he and Braden raced after them.
"No way I'm gonna be the rotten Exeggcute!" added Hillary as she and Togepi raced after them.
Celebi, not wanting to be left out, flew right behind them.
Silveena and Lugia turned to one another after watching the children run off.
They have such energy, don't they? remarked Silveena.
They sure do, agreed Lugia.
(Music Cue: Golden Silver (full version))
But to their pleasant surprise, they had run into Ash, Misty, and Brock.
"Hey, guys. We're glad that you could stop by and dine with us," smiled Brock.
"Yeah, we thought you could use a little cheering up after your loss," added Misty.
"Thanks, guys, that means a lot," replied Tristan. "I am sad about the loss, but I had a lot of fun battling in the Silver Conference."
"I did, too," agreed Ash. "I learned a lot from all the Trainers I met and battled here."
"We all learned a lot from traveling in Johto," added Hillary.
"We all saw that Kecleon and Blaziken that Harrison had in battle on television," put in Braden. "Boy, were they strong."
"Yeah," agreed Tristan. "We heard those Pokémon live in the Hoenn region."
"And they were Pokémon that we'd never seen before," finished Evan.
"Evan and I are going to find Shen and dine with him before he prepares for his match," said Braden.
"Okay, guys," agreed Tristan. "Tell him Hillary and I will root for him."
"We will," replied Braden. "Enjoy your time with Ash, Misty, and Brock, you two."
"See you in a little bit, Braden!" called Hillary as Braden and Evan left to find Shen.
"We'll plan to root for Harrison in the semifinals tomorrow," said Brock. "I'm sure he's getting ready for his next match, but knowing him, after Blaziken battled so hard against Ash's Charizard, he probably won't be using it tomorrow."
"I hope it's okay," said Ash sadly. "I hate to think what would happen if he really needed it and ends up losing tomorrow's battle."
"I'm sure it'll be fine, Ash," Tristan assured him. "Harrison knows that competitions are tough. Besides, we wanted to help you cheer up, so we thought we'd share a little information about the GS ball that we learned while we were in Azalea Town."
This made Ash, Misty, and Brock excited.
"Really? What did you learn?" asked Ash eagerly.
"Yeah, what's the good word?" added Misty.
"We've been dying to know about it for months!" put in Brock.
"Okay, okay, take it easy," chuckled Hillary. "We'll tell you. Tristan?"
"Right." And Tristan took his open GS ball out of his backpack.
"Whoa! How were you able to open the GS Ball?" gasped Ash.
"Yes, please tell us!" added Misty.
Tristan told his story of his and Hillary's adventures in the Ilex Forest.
(Music Cue: The Pokémon Castle)
"Well, Hillary and I were in the Ilex Forest because all the Pokémon there had been restless," he began. "That's when Kurt gave us the GS Ball."
"Yeah? Then what happened?" asked Brock.
"He told us that we should put the GS Ball on the Ilex Forest shrine," continued Tristan. "So I did. And you wouldn't believe what emerged from it."
As Tristan spoke, Celebi flew in through the open window and landed on Tristan's lap.
"A Celebi!" exclaimed Ash, Misty, and Brock together.
Tristan gave a chuckle as Celebi had been tickled to be with him. "Celebi and I became such good buddies that it comes over to see Hillary and me a lot. We even went on a trip through time recently to have some adventures together."
"And Celebi likes to help people, too," added Hillary. "It even helped me when I hurt my arm."
"I remember one time when we had encountered Celebi in a big forest near a place called the Lake of Life," replied Misty. "It healed my knee like it was magic."
"And we met a Suicune, too," put in Brock. "Suicune has the power to purify even the dirtiest of waters."
"Hey, do you know what this means?" asked Ash excitedly. "It means you could change history for the better if you wanted to."
"Well, I don't know if I'd put it that way," replied Tristan. "Let's learn from our past and see what the future holds for us."
"Tristan, I couldn't have said it better myself," smiled Brock.
They talked in the cafeteria for what seemed like hours.
"It was great meeting you, Ash," said Tristan as he and Hillary prepared for bed that night.
"Sure was," agreed Ash. "I hope you win all your battles coming up."
"You, too. Let's battle together someday."
"You bet."
"Hey, guys, I'm looking forward to the next time I taste your cooking," said Brock. "Maybe I could learn something from you."
"Right, Brock," replied Hillary. "But try not to let the girls attract you too much."
Brock gave a chuckle, for Hillary knew him all too well.
"I think we all learned a lot from each other," added Misty.
"I think so too," replied Hillary. "Keep up the good work raising your Water Pokémon. And I hope to battle you someday soon."
"Me, too, Hillary," smiled Misty.
"We'll be sure to talk to Kurt and Maizie on the phone tomorrow and tell them what we learned about the GS Ball," promised Ash.
"I know you will," replied Tristan.
Everyone shook hands as they hoped to meet each other again on the road someday. Then they said their goodnights and went to bed.
Two days later, the Silver Conference was in its final battle as the crowd at Silver Stadium was at full capacity.
Shen had won his semifinal battle and had moved on to the championship, where it pitted him against a Trainer named John Dickson from Sento Cherry Town.
"Well, the Silver Conference is finally drawing to a close," said the announcer. "Both Trainers have only one Pokémon remaining in this battle. Who will claim victory in this match?"
Shen's Rhydon charged toward John's Rapidash, who was charging right back at it.
Unfortunately, Rhydon's strength proved to be no match for Rapidash's as it sent Rhydon flying down to the ground with a dazed expression in its eyes. It had been knocked out.
"Rhydon is unable to battle...Rapidash wins!" declared the referee as he raised his green flag in the air.
(Music Cue: I Got a Victory Badge! (full version))
"And that's it!" boomed the announcer as the crowd cheered. "Our winner is John Dickson from Sento Cherry Town!"
Tristan, Hillary, Braden, and Evan were saddened by Shen's loss.
"That's too bad," said Braden. "I was hoping that Shen would win."
"But it was a good battle," put in Evan. "And Shen did his best."
"Still, John Dickson's a great Trainer," added Hillary.
"He sure is," agreed Tristan. "And I've learned a lot from both him and Shen during our time here."
A moment later, the closing ceremonies took place as the stadium filled up with Trainers, spectators, and judges as Mr. Goodshow brought out a golden trophy.
"Head Judge, Mr. Goodshow, presents the Championship Trophy to the victorious John Dickson!" boomed the announcer as the confetti fell and John held his trophy in the air. "We now present to you the champion of the Johto League Silver Conference: John Dickson from Sento Cherry Town!"
The crowd eagerly roared in excitement as the ceremony went on and the Sacred Ho-Oh Flame burned proudly into the sky.
After the closing ceremonies were over, the stadium became completely empty, the big screens had been shut down, and the Sacred Ho-Oh flame had been extinguished.
Later, Tristan, Hillary, Braden, Evan, and Shen all met up at the crossroads on the outskirts of Silver Town.
"I may not have won this competition," said Tristan. "But we had fun battling together. Didn't we, Pikachu?"
Pikachu nodded in agreement.
"And we didn't have to worry about Team Rocket and Giovanni destroying everything this time," added Hillary.
"And now that you know how far you've come, Tristan, what's next for you and Hillary?" asked Shen.
"Um, I haven't figured that out yet," Tristan admitted.
"Hey, Tristan, do you remember that Blaziken and that Blaze Kick attack?" asked Hillary. "Now that's what I call hot."
"Yeah, that was hot, wasn't it?" agreed Evan. "I almost wish I had one."
"Still, I never knew that there'd be more than just 251 species of Pokémon," added Braden. "I honestly thought that there'd be just that number."
"Well, as Bill from the Cerulean Cape told us, there are many, many more Pokémon that have yet to be discovered," replied Shen. "And there's no telling what kinds you may run into on your journey someday. Hey, Tristan, I just met up with Harrison from Littleroot Town, and since he suggested that Ash should check out the Hoenn region, I figured you should, too. Have you been there?"
"The Hoenn region? Yes, I've been there!" Tristan was delighted with the revelation. "I know I've only been there to see Aunt Amy and Uncle Greg, who live in Littleroot Town, and they've always been so kind to us every time we come there."
"Yes, of course," interrupted Braden. "Aunt Amy's always the caring type, who treats us like we were her own children."
"And whenever there's something technical that we want to get fixed there, Uncle Greg is the one to ask," added Hillary.
"And we can't forget our cousins, Wayne, Marc, and Lisa, too!" put in Evan. "They're fun and silly, even though they get into trouble sometimes, especially Wayne."
"I know it's a lot to take in, Tristan," said Shen. "But if you need some time to think about it, you can stay home and prepare for the journey if you want to."
"Thank you, Shen," replied Tristan. "You see, I'd already promised Grandma that I'd go back home to New Bark Town after the tournament's over."
"And I thought I'd come with him, just to keep him company," added Hillary.
"And now, I want to get into battling in the Pokémon League, too!" put in Evan.
"You'd have to earn some badges first," reminded Braden.
"No sweat," replied Evan. "Hey, Braden, wanna help me on our journey together?"
"Of course," agreed Braden. "That's why we've been traveling together in the first place. Let's promise to help each other out no matter what happens. Deal?"
"Deal."
"And I'll go along with them just in case they need any help," added Shen.
"I may not need help personally, but Evan might," teased Braden.
"Hey!" interjected Evan.
"Just kidding," chuckled Braden.
Just then, there was a loud boom from not too far away.
"What was that?" gasped Tristan in alarm.
"Sounded like an explosion," replied Hillary. "Let's check it out."
And they ran off to see where that explosion had come from. But seconds later, an even bigger explosion took place as three familiar figures, Jessie, James, and Meowth, flew right past them into the sky, screaming and blasting off into the sky, empty-handed as usual.
DING!
"Was that Team Rocket?" asked Tristan.
"It sure looked like Team Rocket," replied Hillary. "I wonder what they wanted this time."
"Probably to try and steal Ash's Pikachu again, I'll bet," grumbled Tristan. "Well, at least they got what they desoive."
"Now, Tristan, let's not act like that talking Meowth," teased Hillary.
"Hey, now!" Now it was Tristan's turn to feel offended, but he didn't mind too much as everyone laughed.
"Well, Tristan, it's been fun," said Shen. "I know we all need to get going, but I wish you and Hillary success in the battles coming up."
"Thanks, Shen," replied Tristan. "I'll do my best. By the way, where are you guys headed off to?"
"We figured we'd stop by Mount Silver first before going through Kanto," answered Shen. "I want to try and challenge the Indigo League myself."
"Please be sure to say hi to Grandma and Grandpa for us," said Braden.
"We will," agreed Hillary.
"So long, guys, and take care," said Evan as he, Braden, and Shen waved goodbye.
"Bye, Evan! Bye, Braden!" called Hillary. "Thanks for coming to the Silver Conference with us!"
"And Shen, let's battle again soon, okay?" called Tristan.
"You got it, Tristan!" replied Shen.
Pikachu and Togepi called out their goodbyes as well, and they, Tristan, and Hillary waved until Braden, Evan, and Shen were out of sight.
Presently, Lugia and Silveena arrived.
"Hey, guys, what's up?" wondered Tristan.
Well, we just thought we'd tell you something important, answered Silveena.
"Sure, what is it?" asked Hillary.
Well, you know how close Tristan and Lugia have been since Lugia hatched, right? replied Silveena. I heard through the grapevine that your grandfather had hired some contractors to build a big shed for us in the backyard at his place. And at Lugia's insistence, I have agreed to live with Lugia at the place where you live.
Tristan was delighted to hear this, for he knew what that meant. "That means we can play and fly in the sky together in New Bark Town as much as we want to, right?"
You bet it does, Tristan, smiled Lugia. And our new home should be finished by nightfall.
"Well, what are we waiting for?" said Tristan excitedly. "Let's go back to New Bark Town and check it out! Come on, Hillary!" And he and Pikachu climbed onto Lugia's back.
"You bet!" agreed Hillary as she and Togepi climbed on Silveena.
Presently, Celebi arrived and flew all around Lugia and Silveena just as they were about to take off.
"Hey, what's up, Celebi?" asked Tristan.
Celebi continued flying excitedly all around him.
"Does this mean you wanna come with us to New Bark Town?" asked Tristan.
Celebi nodded and excitedly flew around him even faster than before. Then it yawned in landed on Lugia's back right in front of Tristan.
"Looks like we'll be adding one more to our troop for awhile," smiled Hillary. "Come on, everybody, let's go!"
(Music Cue: Opening Title 1999-2001 (full version))
And so they took off into the sky as the sun began to set, painting Mount Silver in colors of red, yellow, and gold.
They flew on and on as night fell and the moon shone brightly.
Hey, Tristan, could you promise me something? asked Lugia.
"Sure, Lugia. What is it?"
Could we play and fly together tomorrow? I'd like to check up on things on the Whirl Islands.
"I'd be happy to play with you tomorrow."
"That'll be great," smiled Hillary. "You and Lugia deserve some quality time after the Silver Conference."
Suddenly, they saw two people waving from the ground below.
"There's New Bark Town!" said Tristan as he pointed down to the ground. "And look! There they are!"
"Grandma! Grandpa!" called Hillary. "We're here!"
"Hello, kids!" replied Veronica as Lugia and Silveena began their descent.
"Welcome home," added Eric. "And welcome, Lugia and Silveena."
"They've got Celebi, too," smiled Veronica. "We're going to have so much fun with our grandchildren and the Pokémon."
"There's the big shed that Lugia was talking about!" said Tristan.
Sure enough a big building had been been constructed in the backyard behind Tristan and Hillary's house, and it looked like it was big enough to house at least two big Pokémon along with several people and small Pokémon.
And it's finished at last, added Lugia. What do you think, Silveena?
It's perfect just like you, replied Silveena. And...homely.
Lugia had to chuckle at Silveena's pun.
Tristan, Hillary, Pikachu, and Togepi all gave good laughs as well.
The Silver Conference of the Johto League has come to a close. And as Tristan and Hillary's journey through Johto also nears the end, they'll be thinking of new goals and new adventures as they settle once more in the comforts of their home in New Bark Town with Lugia and Silveena, having joined them as part of their ever growing family of Pokémon friends.
► TO BE CONTINUED