Chapter 13
Fighting the Flyers
"Hey there it is!" Callista shouted when she saw a huge purple building towering over all the other buildings around it.
It was early in the morning when the trio finally arrived at Violet City and Callista couldn't wait for her gym battle. She was so excited she had forgotten how hungry she was, but Ruby and Emily did not.
"I know you're excited about your gym battle," Emily said, "but I think its more important if you feed yourself and your pokemon so you and them have the energy to battle."
Callista didn't like this idea, but her friends forced her to go. As they entered the city the first place they stopped was a cute little fast food stand to grab a quick bite.
"There," Ruby said. "Now this shouldn't take too long."
Callista was hungry, but she was too nervous to eat. As her hotdog sat on her paper plate she glanced around the city. There were a lot of people hurrying to get to places. There were many different businesses trying to sell different things to people who were walking by and lots of billboards filled with advertisements.
Emily soon noticed that Callista wasn't eating, "Are you alright?"
Callista lied. She didn't want her friends to know how nervous she was. "Yeah, I just have a lot on my mind. How long will the gym be open today?"
Emily pulled out her guide and checked; "It says its open all day." She read a bit more. "They stop accepting challenges at 8pm."
Callista stood up. "I am going to take a walk for a little bit to clear my head."
"Sure," Ruby replied. "Are you sure you are okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Callista said, as she gave her cold hotdog to Ruby. "You two can have this. I will meet you at the gym before 8pm."
"Okay," Emily and Ruby replied as Callista turned and began to walk down the street.
Callista walked and walked. She was getting worried about the battle she is going to have later today. The only reason she won her last gym battle was because she urged her pokemon to battle when they shouldn't have. She also won because of Growlithe disobeying her. What if it does it again? Will she be able to battle and win in another gym with the pokemon that she had? All these questions and many more were racing through her head until something caught her eye. Callista stopped and turned her head to the right. Against a small mini mart she saw a voice phone up against the wall.
"I'll try to call home one more time," Callista said to herself out loud. Callista went up to the phone and fished around in her pocket for a quarter. When she found one she placed it in the slot and dialed her mom's number. She lucked out this time as the phone began to ring. It took about five rings for someone to answer the phone.
"Hello?"
"Hello, mom?" Callista said. "It's Callista."
Her mom squealed in delight. "Oh, hi honey. How are you doing? Where are you? Are you okay? Do you need some more money?"
"Mom, its okay I am fine." Callista was surprised at all of her questions. "I am in Violet City."
"You're in Violet City?" Her mom repeated. "That is so wonderful."
"I have four pokemon now," Callista continued. "Today I am going to challenge the gym leader here so I can win another gym badge."
"Another one?"
"Yeah," Callista said. "I won a Poison Badge from the gym leader in Cherrygrove City."
"You're first badge," her mother squealed. "And you are already on your way to win another one. I am so proud of you."
"I would have called you a lot sooner but your line was always busy," Callista explained. "Is something wrong?"
"No, I just have to deal with all the old problems with your dad," her mother's voice got quiet. Callista knew her mother has not gotten over him leaving her. "You know, the same old stuff."
Callista only replied with a yes and quickly changed the subject. "Not only that but I have made two friends that are traveling with me on my journey. One is a fire trainer and the other is a flying trainer."
"That makes me feel better about my little baby girl traveling around the world without me," her mother sighed. "At least you have some people there to help you when I'm not around."
"Yes mother," Callista replied.
"I would love to stay on the phone and chat with you longer but I have something in the oven," Callista's mom said. "I love you honey."
"Love you mom," Callista said. "Bye."
Callista hung up the phone and sighed. She missed her home and she missed her mom. Traveling around training to become a good pokemon trainer was tough work. But training pokemon has become something she loved doing. Callista continued to walk around and did some window shopping, hoping to get her mind off of the battle. After walking a few blocks she saw an advertisement on the wall of a television store. It was a small yellow sign, which interested Callista so she went over to the side to read it. It said, "Visit the Sprout Tower and test your skills for a prize," along with an arrow that was pointing to the right on the same street Callista was walking. She glanced over and saw the tower at the end of the street.
"That tower obviously isn't going to be hard to find," Callista thought to herself. She thought over the advertisement again. "This sounds like a good idea," Callista thought. "This way I can get in a little bit of practice before my gym battle."
Callista then took a couple steps towards the window and stared at the new electronically advanced television. She liked technology just about as much as she liked pokemon. There was a news report on the window television when Callista, half listening to the television, peered into the store.
News- "This is an urgent report for Violet City and all the area surrounding it. Trainers please use extreme caution when traveling around that area. There are been reports that Team Rocket agents have been lurking in that area stealing pokemon and training items. If you see anything suspicious please contact the proper authorities. Thank you and have a good day."
After Callista had her fill of window-shopping she headed to the Sprout Tower. It would have been nice if she would have listen to that news report that was on the TV she was admiring, because when she finally arrived at the Sprout Tower she looked up and took a good look at the outside. "I wonder why they call this the Sprout Tower," Callista thought to herself. "That sounds like a strange name for a tower." When Callista began to walk closer to the tower she noticed someone sneaking around the tower. When she got a few steps closer she was able to see him better. He was a very suspicious looking guy with long red hair, which we wore in a ponytail. He wore a black sweatshirt with one red stripe on the waist and two stripes on the wrists. In addition to the sweater, he also had on dark blue jeans with black and gray boots. Callista watched in silence as she saw him sneak around the tower and peek into the large square windows. He seemed to be examining the windows and doors for some odd reason. Callista couldn't figure out what this guy was doing, but whatever it was she did not like it.
"Hey," Callista shouted as she tried to sound tough. "What do you think you are doing?"
The red haired guy looked up. Callista couldn't see his eyes because he had really dark sunglasses on. When the guy saw Callista approach him he quickly ran off in the opposite direction and disappeared behind a big building a block away.
"He was a little strange," Callista said as she shook her head and tried to forget about the strange guy. Callista walked up to the entrance of the tower and stepped inside.
"Are you here for the challenge?" A tall monk said as soon as Callista entered, he was wearing a long brown robe.
"Um I am not sure," Callista replied. She didn't realize she would be battling against monks.
"I am Kaemon," the tall monk introduced himself and then introduced another smaller monk as he approached, "And this is Makoto."
"If you accept the challenge you would battle Master Hiroshi, our head monk here on the top floor of the tower," Kaemon explained as he pointed up towards the ceiling.
"And if you win you will be presented with a Quick Claw," Makoto continued. "Which is said to increase the speed of any pokemon when worn."
"I will think about it," Callista replied, "I would like to look around a bit if that is cool."
Makoto nodded as Callista turned and continued to look around the first floor of the tower. There were many pictures of grass pokemon on the walls and Callista guessed that was the type of pokemon that is raised here. Callista was so interested in the photos she didn't notice the familiar, yet strange red haired guy step into the tower, walk past her, and approach the two guard monks.
"I want a battle and I want it now," the red haired guy demanded as the monks nodded and pointed him to the stairway leading to Master Hiroshi.
The red haired guy pushed the monks out of his way and headed up the stairway.
Callista continued to look around. Besides the pictures of the pokemon the thing that intrigued her the most about the tower was the large support beam in the center. The beam was made of wood and swayed back and forth. Callista turned to the two guard monks and motioned them to come over. Makoto walked over to Callista as Kaemon stayed by the door.
"Do you have a question my dear?" Makoto asked when he approached her.
"Is this beam supporting the whole tower?" Callista asked as she pointed to the swaying beam.
"Yes it is. Besides the frames on the walls this beam is the only thing that holds this tower up."
"But aren't you afraid that this tower is going to fall because the beam sways back and forth?"
"The tower was built so perfect that the swaying doesn't affect the tower."
"Wow," Callista said.
"Yeah, this tower means a lot to this city. Earl's Pokemon Academy uses this tower to teach their young students about growth."
"Growth?"
"Yes, this tower reminds us all that everything in this world, no matter how strong or smart, had to have a beginning. The tower symbolizes that everything starts small kind of like a Bellsprout with plenty of room to grow."
"And that is why it is called the Sprout Tower!"
"Very good," Makoto replied.
Before Makoto or Callista could say any more there was, suddenly, a loud crash and a shout from above. The two guard monks raced upstairs to see what was going on and Callista followed.
The red haired guy had the head monk up against a wall as he threatened his life with a small Houndour. The guy had a small black, curvy item in his hand.
"What do you think you are doing?" Callista shouted.
"I'm taking this Quick Claw and taking it back to base for my boss," the red haired guy replied.
"You can't take that it's not yours," Callista was still trying to sound tough even though she was scared to death. "Who do you think you are?"
"Funny you should ask," the red haired guy grinned and pulled down his sunglasses to reveal dark brown eyes. "I am coded named Wildfire for my love of fire. I never give out my real name since I work as a secret agent for Team Rocket. I collect rare and valuable artifacts for my boss."
"So you're a fire trainer!"
"Not exactly, just because do have one fire pokemon doesn't mean I am a fire pokemon trainer. I just love fire. The smell of it burning through things as the hot smoke rises into the air." His voice turned from sly to angry. "So allow me to demonstrate my love for fire on this place as I burn this tower down!"
"No!" Callista shouted as she quickly reacted and called out a pokemon. Totodile appeared. "Totodile water gun!"
Before Houndour's flames could reach the walls of the tower, Totodile's water gun washed the attack away and also struck the Houndour with a strong blow.
"Return," Wildfire called his pokemon back. "Looks like its time to go." With the Quick claw in his hand Wildfire turned and dashed for the closest window.
"Oh no you don't," Callista called after him. "Water gun Totodile!"
Totodile took a deep breath and released a huge blast of water. Instead of stopping Wildfire from getting to the window, the force of Totodile's water gun struck Wildfire in the back and shot him out of the window like a cannon. Since he was trained in Team Rocket's base he easily grabbed a hold of the window of the tower and jumped from story to story until he landed onto the ground. Callista and two of the monks ran to the window and saw him rise onto his feet. The head monk, Master Hiroshi, stayed away from the window and remained quiet.
"Thanks for the extra push!" Wildfire called from the ground as he looked up at the top window. "I gotta run now." Wildfire darted off and disappeared into the city.
Callista really felt bad now. Instead of stopping him from leaving she helped him get away. "I can't believe he got away," Callista complained. "I shouldn't have used a water gun attack."
Master Hiroshi walked over to Callista and put his hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry about it. It wasn't your fault. You tried your best. It may not seem like it now, but in the end the evil always receive their punishments."
"Um, okay if you say so," Callista didn't know what he was talking about. She did, however, forget about the thief.
Master Hiroshi took his hand away and began walking back to the open floor area. "Do you still want to battle me for experience alone?"
"Of course," Callista replied as she turned and followed. "That is why I was here to begin with. I didn't want any stupid quick clawy thinga ma bob." She couldn't even remember what it was called. "I wanted to battle."
"Then I shall not let you down," Master Hiroshi replied. "We will battle right here, right now." Master Hiroshi moved over to give the battle room as Callista did the same. "Select your pokemon."
Callista decided to stick with Totodile even thought it had a disadvantage against a grass pokemon. Callista had a feeling that was what Master Hiroshi was going to use. "Totodile are you ready to battle again?"
Totodile nodded and leaped into battle.
"I choose Bellsprout!" Master Hiroshi called out his pokemon.
A small Bellsprout appeared from its pokeball.
"Bellsprout go razor leaf attack!" Master Hiroshi ordered as he quickly started attacked first to gain the first strike advantage.
"Dodge it Totodile!" Callista called.
Bellsprout released a few razor leaves toward the Totodile as Totodile managed to maneuver out of the way.
"Now tackle it!" Callista ordered as Totodile charged at the Bellsprout.
"Vine whip now!" Master Hiroshi ordered as Bellsprout stretched out two of its vine whips
As Totodile approached, Bellsprout threw back one of its whip and the swung it at the Totodile striking the little water pokemon in the mouth. Totodile got thrown back.
"Don't give up," Callista coached her pokemon to continue. "Fight back with a water gun!"
Totodile shot out a powerful blast of water striking the Bellsprout hard. Despite the power of the attack the water did not do much damage against the grass pokemon.
"Tackle again!" Callista ordered as she decided to stick with physical attacks.
Totodile charged at Bellsprout again and again Bellsprout tried to stop Totodile with its vine whip, but this time Totodile managed to jump out of the way of each attempt and then slam into the Bellsprout with a powerful tackle attack. Bellsprout got tossed to its master's side and was unable to continue the battle.
"Bellsprout return," Master Hiroshi called his pokemon back and then stepped over to Callista, who was hugging her Totodile.
"You were great Totodile," Callista put her pokemon down when she saw Master Hiroshi approach.
"That was great," Master Hiroshi said. "I never thought a water pokemon would be able to defeat a grass pokemon so quickly. That Totodile must be strong."
"Thanks," Callista smiled as she called her pokemon back into its pokeball. "It sure is."
"It's too bad I don't have a prize to give to you but I do have something better," Master Hiroshi said.
"What is that?"
"These words...In order for your dreams to come true you must first wake up and believe you can fulfill them. Remember type doesn't always matter when you battle. Skill and level are also equally as important when choosing a pokemon. And last but not least, a journey of a thousand miles always begins with the first step."
Callista was a little confused, but she nodded at his words of wisdom.
"You may not understand what I say now," Master Hiroshi said, "but you will when you are ready."
"Thank you," Callista replied.
Suddenly Callista heard chimes ringing from the top of the tower and she quickly looked at her watch. Callista gasped as she realized she had spent a lot more time at the tower than she thought. It was a quarter until eight and the gym stopped accepting challenges at eight.
"Thank you Master Hiroshi," Callista thanked him again, "But I really have to go so I can have my gym battle."
"You're welcome and good luck with your match!" Master Hiroshi said.
"Thank you," Callista's voice faded as she waved and raced down the stairs. As she ran out of the tower doors she thought to herself. "If I don't make it to the battle it will make me fall more behind my rivals than I already am."
Callista ran as fast as she legs could carry her towards a huge purple building in the distance.
A young man with blue hair flowing over his eyes looked at his watch and shook his head. "Looks like your friend isn't going to make it."
Emily looked at her watch. He was right; it was ten minutes until 8 o'clock. "She will be here. I know she will."
"Unless," Ruby interrupted as she began to worry more.
"Unless what?" Emily asked, afraid of what Ruby was going to say.
"I didn't want to say it, but what if something happened to her?" Ruby said.
"Don't say that."
"I told you I didn't want to say it."
The man looked at his watch again and there was only five more minutes left. "She isn't going to make it."
"Who isn't going to make it?" A girl voice called out as the elevator door opened and out jogged Callista. "I know it's not me."
"She made it!" Ruby cheered.
"What happened?" Emily asked.
"I'll explain it to you later," Callista turned her attention to the group of trainers over on the other side of the battlefield. "First I want to challenge Falkner for a gym battle!"
The man with the blue hair answered her, "Unfortunately, you will not be able to challenge Falkner."
"What?"
" He has left the gym eight years ago to do more training with his flying pokemon after he was defeated by a boy and his Charizard."
"You're kidding!" Callista cried out. "Does this mean I won't be able to battle?
"But, like I was telling you friends, that is why I am here. My name is Skylar and I am Falkner's cousin and the temporary gym leader of Violet City until Falkner returns. He had left me in charge because I too share the same love for bird pokemon like him. So if you want that Zephyr Badge you have to challenge me to get it."
"I don't care who I must battle," Callista replied. "I am Callista from Olivine City and I want that badge so I challenge you to a battle."
"I accept of course," Skylar grinned. "But here we do things more officially." He looked over at a near by male assistant and nodded. The assistant stepped over to the center of the sidelines to be the referee for the battle. "Callista from Olivine City has challenged the Violet City gym leader to a pokemon battle. This will be a three on three battle. At stake is the Zephyr Badge. Begin the match when ready."
"Are you ready to begin?" Skylar asked as she took her place on the battlefield.
"Ready," Callista replied as she grabbed her first pokeball and waited to see the first pokemon Skylar was going to send out.
Skylar grabbed his first pokeball and tossed it into the air. "Go."
"Hoooooot," a large Hoothoot flew out of its pokeball.
"A Hoothoot," Callista thought as she recalled Delora having a Hoothoot. This one seemed a lot bigger than hers.
As the Hoothoot hovered over the battlefield, Callista chose her first pokemon. "I choose you Chikorita!" Callista shouted as she released her pokemon.
"Chika chika," Chikorita chirped as it prepared for battle.
Emily nudged Ruby, "A grass pokemon against a flying pokemon? I hope she knows what she is doing?"
"Yeah," Ruby replied as the two friends waited and watched on the sidelines.
Skylar just shook his head; he figured this would be an easy match. "Go Hoothoot tackle attack!"
"Chikorita use your tackle attack too," Callista ordered as Chikorita and Hoothoot charged at each other.
With all of their strength the two pokemon collided with each other using their tackle attacks. Since Hoothoot was using the power of flight, its attack was stronger and Chikorita was tossed to the side.
"Now Hoothoot use your wing attack!" Skylar called out.
"Dodge it!"
Hoothoot dove toward Chikorita with its wings spread and tried to hit Chikorita with a wing attack, but Chikorita was able to leap to the side causing the Hoothoot to miss.
"Vine whip attack!" Callista ordered as Chikorita stretched out two of its whips toward its opponent.
Chikorita tried to whip the Hoothoot, but each time Hoothoot managed to dodge each and every attempt. Hoothoot flew down towards the Chikorita again as it got prepared for another attack.
"Chikorita stand your ground!"
"Bad idea," Skylar smirked. "Hoothoot finished it was a wing attack."
"Hoothoot hooooo," Hoothoot cried as it dove toward the small grass pokemon.
"Get ready," Callista said as Chikorita prepared itself.
Just as Hoothoot drew closer, Callista ordered her attack.
"Vine whip it!"
Chikorita quickly shot out its vine whip striking Hoothoot right in the face as it approached. Hoothoot was so stunned by the attack it crashed onto the floor of the battlefield.
"Hoothoot!" Skylar cried out when he realized his pokemon was in trouble.
"Now use your sleep powder!" Callista ordered as Chikorita released its clear, sparkling dust.
A blanket of sleep powder covered the Hoothoot as it struggled to get back up onto its feet. Hoothoot's eyes began to close at the powder began to take effect.
"Hoothoot get out of there!" Skylar tried to coach is pokemon on, but it was no use. Within moments Hoothoot was fast asleep.
The referee waited a moment to see if Hoothoot would stay asleep and when he realized it was he announced the victor. "Hoothoot is unable to continue the match. Chikorita is the winner."
Chikorita started to jump up and down in place. "Chika chika chika," Chikorita cheered as the green everstone clanged back and forth on the chain from around Chikorita's neck.
"Great work Chikorita," Callista praised.
Emily and Ruby were impressed.
"Wow, she did it," Emily said.
"Callista is a lot stronger than she appears to be. She sure is getting better." Ruby looked at the celebrating Chikorita. "And Chikorita is awesome."
Skylar called his pokemon back. "Hoothoot return." Hoothoot returned to its pokeball and Skylar grabbed another. "Your Chikorita maybe have gotten lucky against Hoothoot. But your little grass pokemon won't stand a chance against my next speedy pokemon."
Callista glared, "My Chikorita can take it! Bring it on!"
"If you say so," Skylar reached back and tossed his second pokeball into the air. "Go Pidgeotto!"
"Pidgeooooooooo," Pidgeotto soared out of its pokeball and was already ready for battle.
Chikorita looked a little worried so Callista tried to coach it to continue. "Don't give in Chikorita," Callista shouted. "You can do it!"
Chikorita nodded.
"Heh, since you are so confident why don't you make the first move." Skylar chuckled.
"Fine then, I will. Chikorita use your razor leaf attack," Callista ordered as Chikorita released several razor leaves toward the Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto climb!" Skylar called out as Pidgeotto bolted into the air. "Now dive!"
Pidgeotto soared into a giant loop to change its direction and the dove toward the Chikorita.
"Wing attack!"
"Chikorita get out of the way!"
Chikorita just barely was able to hop out of the way of Pidgeotto's attack as Pidgeotto missed its target and flew back into the air.
"Chikorita can still out maneuver your precious flying pokemon," Callista was getting a little cocky. "And you said Pidgeotto was fast."
Skylar grinned. "Trust me, you haven't seen anything yet." Skylar turned his attention to his Pidgeotto. "Pidgeotto dive again!"
Pidgeotto dove towards the Chikorita once again. This time Callista wanted to show Skylar how fast her pokemon was, so she ordered her Chikorita to attack.
"Use your vine whip to stop it," Callista ordered as Chikorita stretched out its vine whips.
Just as Pidgeotto approached, Skylar ordered an attack. "Use quick attack!"
Pidgeotto bolted towards the Chikorita and before Chikorita knew what was happening Pidgeotto flew through Chikorita's vine whips and struck the little pokemon with a mighty blow. Chikorita was tossed to the side. It struggled to its feet as Callista tried to coach her pokemon back up. She was a little surprised and wasn't expecting such a fast attack. Once Chikorita managed to find the strength to stand Callista focused back on the battle. She realized she got a little carried away when she won the match against Hoothoot. Now she was facing a flying pokemon that really puts Chikorita at a disadvantage. She would have to think up a strategy so Chikorita could have a fighting chance.
Skylar wanted to put an end to Chikorita's battling and decided to attack while Callista was hesitating. "Pidgeotto use your wing attack!"
Pidgeotto dove down, with its wings spread out, towards the Chikorita.
"Chikorita use your sleep powder," Callista ordered as Chikorita begin releasing its sleep powder towards the approaching Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto stop and use your whirlwind," Skylar shouted out quickly as Pidgeotto stopped and begin flapping its wings furiously. Pidgeotto's wing power built up a huge gust of wind. The wind blew towards Chikorita's attack and not only did the wind stop the powder from moving towards Pidgeotto. It began to push the powder towards Chikorita. Before Callista knew what was going on Chikorita's sleep powder covered the little grass pokemon and Chikorita quickly nodded off to sleep.
"Chikorita, wake up!" Callista cried out, but it was too late. Chikorita was fast asleep still standing on its feet.
"Finish it!" Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto bolted towards the pokemon and struck Chikorita with a final quick attack.
Still asleep, Chikorita was tossed to the side, unable to move.
"Chikorita is unable to battle," the referee announced. "Pidgeotto is the winner."
Skylar just smiled as Callista called her pokemon back.
"Poor Chikorita," Ruby whispered to Emily, "Beaten by its own attack."
"I knew Callista was getting a little to cocky," Emily replied. "I hate to say it, but maybe it was a good idea that she lost that round."
"Yeah," Ruby replied. Then she turned her attention back to the battle. "Come on Callista you can do it."
Callista thought to herself as she stared at the Pidgeotto. She wanted to use Pikachu, but she knew that electric pokemon had an advantage against flying types so he decided to go with the power of fire and save electricity for last. She grabbed a pokeball and called out her Growlithe, "I choose you."
Growlithe appeared from its pokeball.
Skylar was a little surprised at her choice. He was almost certain that she would pick another pokemon weak against bird pokemon.
"A fire type huh?" Skylar said, this time he didn't sound so smug. He decided to try to attack fast and hard. "Go Pidgeotto, use your quick attack!"
"Growlithe surround yourself with a fire spin," Callista cried out, remembering her battle with Victor.
Growlithe released its flamethrower and turned in a circle creating a circular barrier of flames between itself and Pidgeotto. Once Pidgeotto realized what was in front it quickly shot back up into the sky just barely missing the wall of flames. Pidgeotto flew in a giant loop to change direction.
"Pidgeotto use your gust attack to blow the flames away," Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto began flapping its wings violently and created another gust of wind. The wind blew the flames away from the Growlithe leaving the fire pokemon unprotected. "Now use your quick attack again!"
Pidgeotto stopped the gust attack and bolted towards Growlithe. This time Growlithe was not able to protect itself and was hit in the face by Pidgeotto's beak as it used its quick attack. Growlithe was pushed to the side, but it managed to stay on its feet.
Ruby shouted out to Callista, "I don't know if Growlithe is ready for a gym battle."
Callista disagreed. Other than the bare patches on its body where there was no fur it looked very healthy. Without turning her head away from the battle she shouted back, "Growlithe is fine." And if it does seem to be hurting I will call it back." Callista continued the battle. "Growlithe use your flamethrower."
Growlithe shot out a powerful blast of flames toward the Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto use your agility," Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto used its agility to dodge the attack.
"Try it again," Callista said as Growlithe used its flamethrower repeatedly and as Pidgeotto dodged each and every one of the attacks.
"Pidgeotto use your quick attack!"
Pidgeotto, once again, bolted towards Growlithe.
"Dodge it," Callista cried out.
Growlithe was just barely able to dodge the attack by leaping to the right as Pidgeotto zoomed past. Pidgeotto was traveling so fast she needed to plant its feet onto the ground in order to stop.
With Pidgeotto on the ground, this was Callista's chance to attack.
"Growlithe quick, tackle attack now!"
Growlithe charged at Pidgeotto.
"Agility now!"
Pidgeotto bolted into the sky as Growlithe slowed to a stop due to its target moving. Pidgeotto used its agility again to get behind its opponent.
"Wing attack!"
Pidgeotto dove with its wings stretched out. With its back towards Pidgeotto, Growlithe was unable to move out of the way in time. Pidgeotto struck Growlithe in the back with a powerful wing attack.
"Growlithe no!" Callista cried out as she saw her pokemon get tossed of its feet and onto the floor. She saw her Growlithe struggle to stand. "Growlithe are you okay?"
"Growl!" Growlithe answered, and this time Callista knew it really was okay by the way her pokemon was acting.
"Alright," Callista cheered. "Flame thrower!"
Growlithe released a flamethrower toward the Pidgeotto as Pidgeotto dove to the right to dodge.
"This could obviously keep going forever," Skylar complained. "Let's end this now."
Callista grinned, "Yes, let's." She knew he was planned a forward attack. "Get ready Growlithe, I need to you to be quick on this."
"Growl," Growlithe nodded as it braced itself for the attack, and listened to its master's orders. Callista spoke so low that even Ruby and Emily had a hard time hearing her and they were closer than anyone.
"Pidgeotto use your wing attack and finish it off!" Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto dove down to gain speed. Moving close to the floor of the battlefield, Pidgeotto sped towards the Growlithe with its wings spread wide.
"Steady." Callista said as Pidgeotto approached. "Steady."
Pidgeotto was almost upon Growlithe when Callista quickly called out, "Smoke screen!"
Growlithe released a large cloud of black smoke from its mouth. Pidgeotto, still determined to hit its mark flew into the smoke. Pidgeotto couldn't see a thing while inside so it stopped in midair to try to blow the smoke away. Before it was able to begin flapping its wings for any type of attack, a big force knocked into the bird from behind and slammed it onto the ground.
On the outside, Skylar was getting nervous when he realized his pokemon flew into the smoke, but then never emerged. "Pidgeotto!" He called.
Callista was worried too, but if everything went according to plan, Growlithe should be okay. Everyone watched and waited until the smoke began to rise and clear away from the area. Skylar knew right away what had happened. When Pidgeotto flew into the smoke it didn't know where it was going or where Growlithe was which helped Growlithe dodge the attack easily. Then when Pidgeotto stopped to try to blow the smoke away, that was a perfect opportunity for Growlithe to sneak behind Pidgeotto and attack with its take down. Now, with Pidgeotto pinned to the ground by Growlithe's strong front paws, everyone knew this battle had changed direction and was now leaning in Callista's favor.
Skylar was trying anything to help his Pidgeotto escape. "Agility! Pidgeotto use agility!"
Pidgeotto squirmed and wiggled, but Growlithe held it down tightly. It knew that if they wanted to win it had to keep Pidgeotto on the ground. Pidgeotto could hear a low growl build up inside the Growlithe's gut. Growlithe snarled and showed its teeth.
"Show that bird who is boss Growlithe and give it a roar!" Callista ordered.
Growlithe, with its muzzle close to Pidgeotto's head, opened its mouth wide as it let out an ear-piercing roar. "GRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
Pidgeotto flinched and shook in fear. As Growlithe's roars dimmed to a loud growl, it finished its attack with a leer as it slowly stepped off of its opponent. Pidgeotto continued to shake until, to Skylar's surprise, it retreated back into its pokeball.
"What the..." Skylar jumped when his pokemon fled.
Everyone, except Callista and Skylar, had covered their ears. When the referee realized what had happened he announced his decision, "Pidgeotto refuses to continue the battle. Growlithe wins."
Emily and Ruby let their hands down from their ears and immediately cheered.
"Wow, that was awesome," Ruby said.
"Totally amazing," Emily cheered.
Skylar smiled. "That was pretty impressive. I have never seen a move like that before. That was a great strategy." He pulled his final pokeball from his belt. "However, you'll have to think up better ideas than that in order to defeat my last pokemon."
Callista looked down at her Growlithe. It was already exhausted and was panting heavily for breath. It won't last much longer so maybe if she can hit the next pokemon with a good strong attack, Growlithe wouldn't have to do much.
"I choose you!" Skylar cried out as he tossed his pokeball into the air.
The pokeball opened and out flew a giant brown bird.
Callista didn't know what it was! "What is that?" She shouted as she pulled out her pokedex.
Pokedex- "Fearow, the Beak pokemon; the evolved form of Spearow. This bird pokemon has a really nasty temper and is extremely dangerous. Use extreme caution."
"A Fearow." Callista repeated as she stared at her opponent while she put her pokedex away.
Emily nudged Ruby, "Do you think Callista will be able to beat a Fearow?"
"We'll soon see," Ruby replied, then she called out to Callista, "Come on Callista you can do it!"
Callista and Skylar stared at each other as they waited to see who would attempt to make the first move. Callista was a little impatient so since Fearow was standing on the ground she decided to try to strike first. "Growlithe hurry and use your flame thrower!"
Growlithe shot out a strong flamethrower attack.
"Fearow use whirl wind," Skylar ordered.
Still standing on the ground, Fearow started to flap its wings violently as it created a big whirlwind. As the two attacks collided with each other, the whirlwind, which was obviously stronger, pushed against the flames of Growlithe's attack and sent it back to the fire pokemon. Growlithe wasn't expecting this so it couldn't dodge in time and got hit with its own flamethrower attack. Growlithe got knocked to the ground.
"I can't believe it," Callista gasped, she wasn't expecting that either. "Come on you have to get up!"
Growlithe struggled to get back onto its feet.
"Finish it off with a drill peck attack!"
Fearow flew up over the ground and dove towards Growlithe.
"Growlithe!" Callista cried, but it was too late. Fearow struck her pokemon with a mighty drill peck attack, which tossed the Growlithe over to the side. As Growlithe lay on the ground the referee waited and then announced, "Growlithe is unable to battle. Fearow is the winner."
"This is bad," Emily whispered to Ruby. "Callista only has one pokemon left."
"Yeah, but so does Skylar." Ruby replied. "If Callista really uses her head she would choose Pikachu so she could at least have an advantage."
This was exactly what Callista was thinking. Callista called her Growlithe and then she grabbed Pikachu's pokeball and called out her pokemon. "This battle is far from being over! Pikachu I choose you!"
The cute little yellow mouse appeared from its pokeball. "Pika pika."
Skylar was impressed again. "Fine choice," Skylar said, but then he grinned. "Too bad that little runt won't save you."
Callista glared. She didn't like it when trainers call her Pikachu a runt. "We'll show you!" Callista looked down at Pikachu. "Give it a thunderbolt attack!"
"Pika," Pikachu began charging up its electricity.
"Fearow fly up high!" Skylar commanded as Fearow began climbing until it reached a safe distance away.
Pikachu released its thunderbolt attack toward the Fearow. Fearow didn't budge from its place in the sky and Callista thought this would make an easy hit. Suddenly to Callista's surprise the electric attack stopped about a foot away from the Fearow and then disappeared.
"What happened," Callista said as Pikachu stopped the attack.
"Fearow is too high, Pikachu's electricity can't travel that far!" Ruby called out to Callista.
"Oh no," Callista thought, but then she shook her mind clear. "This just means I have to attack when it is further down." Callista thought to herself as she looked at her opponent.
"Fury attack!" Skylar shouted as Fearow dove toward the Pikachu.
"Try to dodge!" Callista called out.
Callista and Pikachu moved too slowly as Pikachu got hit several times by Fearow's fury attack. Pikachu got thrown to the side as Fearow climbed back up into the sky.
"Pikachu!" Callista shouted as she saw her Pikachu jump back onto its feet.
"Fury attack again!" Skylar commanded as Fearow dove once again.
"Try your agility to dodge and try to grab a hold of it!" Callista shouted, as Pikachu was able to dodge to the right and out of the way of Fearow's attack. Just as Fearow flew by, Pikachu leaped onto its back and hung on to the Fearow's neck as the bird pokemon rose back into the sky.
"Get that Pikachu off of you!" Skylar shouted as Fearow began to swerve back and forth trying to toss the pokemon off.
"Quick Pikachu, use your thunder shock!" Callista ordered as Pikachu charged up its attack.
Fearow continued to swerve to try to shake the pokemon off, but before it could Pikachu released its thunder shock straight into Fearow's body.
"FEEEEARRRRRRRRR," Fearow screamed as the thunder shock did tremendous damage.
"Get it off!" Skylar shouted as Fearow flinched for a few more seconds and then swung its body around to toss the Pikachu off. Pikachu flew off the Fearow and fell to the ground.
"Pikachu!" Callista cried out as she watched her Pikachu fall to the ground, landing on its face and stomach. Pikachu attempted to get back onto its feet. "Pikachu are you okay?" Pikachu made it back to its feet and nodded. "Great!"
It struggled but Fearow managed to stay in the air.
"You just won't quit will you?" Skylar said. "We'll just have to finish you off the hard way. Fearow use your fury attack!"
Fearow dove and attacked the Pikachu.
"Agility!" Callista called as Pikachu managed to dodge the fury attack by moving side by side. "Thundershock it again!"
Pikachu charged its attack and shot it at the Fearow.
"Climb!" Skylar shouted as Fearow bolted into the sky, dodging the attack.
Callista knew that Pikachu wouldn't last for too much longer so she had to think up something in order to finish this battle fast.
Skylar decided he wanted to end the battle first. "We need to get this battle over with," Skylar said as he noticed the sun began to drop down into the horizon. He then turned his attention back to the battle. "Use Aeroblast!" Skylar commanded as his pokemon began to glow.
"Aeroblast is the strongest attack a flying pokemon has!" Ruby shouted.
"You better forfeit," Emily said. "Or Pikachu could be in real trouble."
Callista refused to give up and already knew what she was going to do.
"I really need to you be quick on this Pikachu," Callista said again, but this time to Pikachu.
"Go, Aeroblast it now!" Skylar ordered as Fearow burst into a beam of light, dove and bolted at the Pikachu.
"Steady," Callista said as Fearow gained speed. "Steady."
As soon as Fearow was almost upon Pikachu Callista ordered, "Agility!"
Pikachu raced out of the way of Fearow causing the bird pokemon to miss, got behind it and turned to face it.
"Hurry Pikachu, use thunder wave!" Callista ordered.
Pikachu charged the attack and released two bolts of electricity towards the Fearow.
"Fearow climb!" Skylar commanded, unfortunately Fearow was still traveling at a super speed so it didn't have time to change direction. Pikachu's thunder wave struck the Fearow and held it in place. "Fearow no! Get away from there!"
Pikachu's thunder wave was strong and Fearow was trapped in the electricity and couldn't move.
"Now finish that Fearow off with a Thunder attack," Callista shouted.
Pikachu stopped the thunder wave and with the static bolts still running through Fearow's body the bird pokemon was still paralyzed and couldn't move an inch. Pikachu charged up the attack and aimed it at the helpless Fearow. "Thunder now!" Pikachu released a powerful thunder attack straight into the Fearow. Even though the powerful shock unparalyzed the bird it also did tremendous damage and by the time Pikachu stopped the attack Fearow collapsed onto the ground and fainted.
The referee held up his hand and called out, "Fearow is unable to battle. The winner of the match and the battle is Callista and Pikachu!"
"We did it Pikachu!" Callista held out her arms as Pikachu ran to its trainer. She hugged her Pikachu, "Great job you were great." Then she looked down at her waist as her other pokeballs. "You all did great!"
Ruby and Emily both cheered and ran up to Callista to congratulate her.
"That was awesome!" Ruby said.
"You did it!" Emily cheered.
"Thanks you guys," Callista said. "I couldn't have done it without your support."
"Fearow return," Skylar called his pokemon back and begin clapping in congratulations to Callista as his assistants did the same.
Callista placed her Pikachu onto the ground and then called it back into its pokeball.
Skylar immediately approached her. "Your pokemon sure are a lot faster than I thought," Skylar complimented, "And the variety of your attacks is incredible. You don't use the same attacks all the time so I never knew what attack your pokemon would use next. That is a great way to battle." Skylar then reached into this pant pocket and pulled something small and silver. "I now present you with the Zephyr badge as proof of your victory."
"Wow, thank you!" Callista replied as she received the badge from Skylar.
"You are really strong and I'm sure you will make it far in the Johto league," Skylar said. "If my cousin Falkner was here I'm sure he would be more than happy to battle someone with your strength and skill."
Callista just blushed. Even with all the compliments she still didn't think she was all that good, but she was happy she won her badge.
"Thank you," Callista said. "And it was awesome battling against your flying team, but I think its time for us to hit the road and find a place to sleep."
"There is a pokemon center over by the Pokemon Academy just down the street. There are always beds there," Skylar said as he held out his hand. "I wish you good luck."
"Thanks again!" Callista replied as she took his hand and shook.
As the trio left the gym, Emily and Ruby couldn't stop talking about the battle.
"You're Growlithe was great when it used its smoke screen," Ruby said.
"Pikachu was really fast," Emily said.
Callista barely hear them as she walked towards the Pokemon Center hoping for a nice comfortable bed.
"So where are we headed next?" Ruby asked.
This Callista heard and she quickly answered, "Are you kidding? The next pokemon gym of course!"
"Of course," Ruby and Emily responded.
As the sky darkened the trio headed towards the Pokemon Center so they can rest up for their journey to the next town and then soon to the next gym.
Fighting the Flyers
"Hey there it is!" Callista shouted when she saw a huge purple building towering over all the other buildings around it.
It was early in the morning when the trio finally arrived at Violet City and Callista couldn't wait for her gym battle. She was so excited she had forgotten how hungry she was, but Ruby and Emily did not.
"I know you're excited about your gym battle," Emily said, "but I think its more important if you feed yourself and your pokemon so you and them have the energy to battle."
Callista didn't like this idea, but her friends forced her to go. As they entered the city the first place they stopped was a cute little fast food stand to grab a quick bite.
"There," Ruby said. "Now this shouldn't take too long."
Callista was hungry, but she was too nervous to eat. As her hotdog sat on her paper plate she glanced around the city. There were a lot of people hurrying to get to places. There were many different businesses trying to sell different things to people who were walking by and lots of billboards filled with advertisements.
Emily soon noticed that Callista wasn't eating, "Are you alright?"
Callista lied. She didn't want her friends to know how nervous she was. "Yeah, I just have a lot on my mind. How long will the gym be open today?"
Emily pulled out her guide and checked; "It says its open all day." She read a bit more. "They stop accepting challenges at 8pm."
Callista stood up. "I am going to take a walk for a little bit to clear my head."
"Sure," Ruby replied. "Are you sure you are okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Callista said, as she gave her cold hotdog to Ruby. "You two can have this. I will meet you at the gym before 8pm."
"Okay," Emily and Ruby replied as Callista turned and began to walk down the street.
Callista walked and walked. She was getting worried about the battle she is going to have later today. The only reason she won her last gym battle was because she urged her pokemon to battle when they shouldn't have. She also won because of Growlithe disobeying her. What if it does it again? Will she be able to battle and win in another gym with the pokemon that she had? All these questions and many more were racing through her head until something caught her eye. Callista stopped and turned her head to the right. Against a small mini mart she saw a voice phone up against the wall.
"I'll try to call home one more time," Callista said to herself out loud. Callista went up to the phone and fished around in her pocket for a quarter. When she found one she placed it in the slot and dialed her mom's number. She lucked out this time as the phone began to ring. It took about five rings for someone to answer the phone.
"Hello?"
"Hello, mom?" Callista said. "It's Callista."
Her mom squealed in delight. "Oh, hi honey. How are you doing? Where are you? Are you okay? Do you need some more money?"
"Mom, its okay I am fine." Callista was surprised at all of her questions. "I am in Violet City."
"You're in Violet City?" Her mom repeated. "That is so wonderful."
"I have four pokemon now," Callista continued. "Today I am going to challenge the gym leader here so I can win another gym badge."
"Another one?"
"Yeah," Callista said. "I won a Poison Badge from the gym leader in Cherrygrove City."
"You're first badge," her mother squealed. "And you are already on your way to win another one. I am so proud of you."
"I would have called you a lot sooner but your line was always busy," Callista explained. "Is something wrong?"
"No, I just have to deal with all the old problems with your dad," her mother's voice got quiet. Callista knew her mother has not gotten over him leaving her. "You know, the same old stuff."
Callista only replied with a yes and quickly changed the subject. "Not only that but I have made two friends that are traveling with me on my journey. One is a fire trainer and the other is a flying trainer."
"That makes me feel better about my little baby girl traveling around the world without me," her mother sighed. "At least you have some people there to help you when I'm not around."
"Yes mother," Callista replied.
"I would love to stay on the phone and chat with you longer but I have something in the oven," Callista's mom said. "I love you honey."
"Love you mom," Callista said. "Bye."
Callista hung up the phone and sighed. She missed her home and she missed her mom. Traveling around training to become a good pokemon trainer was tough work. But training pokemon has become something she loved doing. Callista continued to walk around and did some window shopping, hoping to get her mind off of the battle. After walking a few blocks she saw an advertisement on the wall of a television store. It was a small yellow sign, which interested Callista so she went over to the side to read it. It said, "Visit the Sprout Tower and test your skills for a prize," along with an arrow that was pointing to the right on the same street Callista was walking. She glanced over and saw the tower at the end of the street.
"That tower obviously isn't going to be hard to find," Callista thought to herself. She thought over the advertisement again. "This sounds like a good idea," Callista thought. "This way I can get in a little bit of practice before my gym battle."
Callista then took a couple steps towards the window and stared at the new electronically advanced television. She liked technology just about as much as she liked pokemon. There was a news report on the window television when Callista, half listening to the television, peered into the store.
News- "This is an urgent report for Violet City and all the area surrounding it. Trainers please use extreme caution when traveling around that area. There are been reports that Team Rocket agents have been lurking in that area stealing pokemon and training items. If you see anything suspicious please contact the proper authorities. Thank you and have a good day."
After Callista had her fill of window-shopping she headed to the Sprout Tower. It would have been nice if she would have listen to that news report that was on the TV she was admiring, because when she finally arrived at the Sprout Tower she looked up and took a good look at the outside. "I wonder why they call this the Sprout Tower," Callista thought to herself. "That sounds like a strange name for a tower." When Callista began to walk closer to the tower she noticed someone sneaking around the tower. When she got a few steps closer she was able to see him better. He was a very suspicious looking guy with long red hair, which we wore in a ponytail. He wore a black sweatshirt with one red stripe on the waist and two stripes on the wrists. In addition to the sweater, he also had on dark blue jeans with black and gray boots. Callista watched in silence as she saw him sneak around the tower and peek into the large square windows. He seemed to be examining the windows and doors for some odd reason. Callista couldn't figure out what this guy was doing, but whatever it was she did not like it.
"Hey," Callista shouted as she tried to sound tough. "What do you think you are doing?"
The red haired guy looked up. Callista couldn't see his eyes because he had really dark sunglasses on. When the guy saw Callista approach him he quickly ran off in the opposite direction and disappeared behind a big building a block away.
"He was a little strange," Callista said as she shook her head and tried to forget about the strange guy. Callista walked up to the entrance of the tower and stepped inside.
"Are you here for the challenge?" A tall monk said as soon as Callista entered, he was wearing a long brown robe.
"Um I am not sure," Callista replied. She didn't realize she would be battling against monks.
"I am Kaemon," the tall monk introduced himself and then introduced another smaller monk as he approached, "And this is Makoto."
"If you accept the challenge you would battle Master Hiroshi, our head monk here on the top floor of the tower," Kaemon explained as he pointed up towards the ceiling.
"And if you win you will be presented with a Quick Claw," Makoto continued. "Which is said to increase the speed of any pokemon when worn."
"I will think about it," Callista replied, "I would like to look around a bit if that is cool."
Makoto nodded as Callista turned and continued to look around the first floor of the tower. There were many pictures of grass pokemon on the walls and Callista guessed that was the type of pokemon that is raised here. Callista was so interested in the photos she didn't notice the familiar, yet strange red haired guy step into the tower, walk past her, and approach the two guard monks.
"I want a battle and I want it now," the red haired guy demanded as the monks nodded and pointed him to the stairway leading to Master Hiroshi.
The red haired guy pushed the monks out of his way and headed up the stairway.
Callista continued to look around. Besides the pictures of the pokemon the thing that intrigued her the most about the tower was the large support beam in the center. The beam was made of wood and swayed back and forth. Callista turned to the two guard monks and motioned them to come over. Makoto walked over to Callista as Kaemon stayed by the door.
"Do you have a question my dear?" Makoto asked when he approached her.
"Is this beam supporting the whole tower?" Callista asked as she pointed to the swaying beam.
"Yes it is. Besides the frames on the walls this beam is the only thing that holds this tower up."
"But aren't you afraid that this tower is going to fall because the beam sways back and forth?"
"The tower was built so perfect that the swaying doesn't affect the tower."
"Wow," Callista said.
"Yeah, this tower means a lot to this city. Earl's Pokemon Academy uses this tower to teach their young students about growth."
"Growth?"
"Yes, this tower reminds us all that everything in this world, no matter how strong or smart, had to have a beginning. The tower symbolizes that everything starts small kind of like a Bellsprout with plenty of room to grow."
"And that is why it is called the Sprout Tower!"
"Very good," Makoto replied.
Before Makoto or Callista could say any more there was, suddenly, a loud crash and a shout from above. The two guard monks raced upstairs to see what was going on and Callista followed.
The red haired guy had the head monk up against a wall as he threatened his life with a small Houndour. The guy had a small black, curvy item in his hand.
"What do you think you are doing?" Callista shouted.
"I'm taking this Quick Claw and taking it back to base for my boss," the red haired guy replied.
"You can't take that it's not yours," Callista was still trying to sound tough even though she was scared to death. "Who do you think you are?"
"Funny you should ask," the red haired guy grinned and pulled down his sunglasses to reveal dark brown eyes. "I am coded named Wildfire for my love of fire. I never give out my real name since I work as a secret agent for Team Rocket. I collect rare and valuable artifacts for my boss."
"So you're a fire trainer!"
"Not exactly, just because do have one fire pokemon doesn't mean I am a fire pokemon trainer. I just love fire. The smell of it burning through things as the hot smoke rises into the air." His voice turned from sly to angry. "So allow me to demonstrate my love for fire on this place as I burn this tower down!"
"No!" Callista shouted as she quickly reacted and called out a pokemon. Totodile appeared. "Totodile water gun!"
Before Houndour's flames could reach the walls of the tower, Totodile's water gun washed the attack away and also struck the Houndour with a strong blow.
"Return," Wildfire called his pokemon back. "Looks like its time to go." With the Quick claw in his hand Wildfire turned and dashed for the closest window.
"Oh no you don't," Callista called after him. "Water gun Totodile!"
Totodile took a deep breath and released a huge blast of water. Instead of stopping Wildfire from getting to the window, the force of Totodile's water gun struck Wildfire in the back and shot him out of the window like a cannon. Since he was trained in Team Rocket's base he easily grabbed a hold of the window of the tower and jumped from story to story until he landed onto the ground. Callista and two of the monks ran to the window and saw him rise onto his feet. The head monk, Master Hiroshi, stayed away from the window and remained quiet.
"Thanks for the extra push!" Wildfire called from the ground as he looked up at the top window. "I gotta run now." Wildfire darted off and disappeared into the city.
Callista really felt bad now. Instead of stopping him from leaving she helped him get away. "I can't believe he got away," Callista complained. "I shouldn't have used a water gun attack."
Master Hiroshi walked over to Callista and put his hand on her shoulder. "Don't worry about it. It wasn't your fault. You tried your best. It may not seem like it now, but in the end the evil always receive their punishments."
"Um, okay if you say so," Callista didn't know what he was talking about. She did, however, forget about the thief.
Master Hiroshi took his hand away and began walking back to the open floor area. "Do you still want to battle me for experience alone?"
"Of course," Callista replied as she turned and followed. "That is why I was here to begin with. I didn't want any stupid quick clawy thinga ma bob." She couldn't even remember what it was called. "I wanted to battle."
"Then I shall not let you down," Master Hiroshi replied. "We will battle right here, right now." Master Hiroshi moved over to give the battle room as Callista did the same. "Select your pokemon."
Callista decided to stick with Totodile even thought it had a disadvantage against a grass pokemon. Callista had a feeling that was what Master Hiroshi was going to use. "Totodile are you ready to battle again?"
Totodile nodded and leaped into battle.
"I choose Bellsprout!" Master Hiroshi called out his pokemon.
A small Bellsprout appeared from its pokeball.
"Bellsprout go razor leaf attack!" Master Hiroshi ordered as he quickly started attacked first to gain the first strike advantage.
"Dodge it Totodile!" Callista called.
Bellsprout released a few razor leaves toward the Totodile as Totodile managed to maneuver out of the way.
"Now tackle it!" Callista ordered as Totodile charged at the Bellsprout.
"Vine whip now!" Master Hiroshi ordered as Bellsprout stretched out two of its vine whips
As Totodile approached, Bellsprout threw back one of its whip and the swung it at the Totodile striking the little water pokemon in the mouth. Totodile got thrown back.
"Don't give up," Callista coached her pokemon to continue. "Fight back with a water gun!"
Totodile shot out a powerful blast of water striking the Bellsprout hard. Despite the power of the attack the water did not do much damage against the grass pokemon.
"Tackle again!" Callista ordered as she decided to stick with physical attacks.
Totodile charged at Bellsprout again and again Bellsprout tried to stop Totodile with its vine whip, but this time Totodile managed to jump out of the way of each attempt and then slam into the Bellsprout with a powerful tackle attack. Bellsprout got tossed to its master's side and was unable to continue the battle.
"Bellsprout return," Master Hiroshi called his pokemon back and then stepped over to Callista, who was hugging her Totodile.
"You were great Totodile," Callista put her pokemon down when she saw Master Hiroshi approach.
"That was great," Master Hiroshi said. "I never thought a water pokemon would be able to defeat a grass pokemon so quickly. That Totodile must be strong."
"Thanks," Callista smiled as she called her pokemon back into its pokeball. "It sure is."
"It's too bad I don't have a prize to give to you but I do have something better," Master Hiroshi said.
"What is that?"
"These words...In order for your dreams to come true you must first wake up and believe you can fulfill them. Remember type doesn't always matter when you battle. Skill and level are also equally as important when choosing a pokemon. And last but not least, a journey of a thousand miles always begins with the first step."
Callista was a little confused, but she nodded at his words of wisdom.
"You may not understand what I say now," Master Hiroshi said, "but you will when you are ready."
"Thank you," Callista replied.
Suddenly Callista heard chimes ringing from the top of the tower and she quickly looked at her watch. Callista gasped as she realized she had spent a lot more time at the tower than she thought. It was a quarter until eight and the gym stopped accepting challenges at eight.
"Thank you Master Hiroshi," Callista thanked him again, "But I really have to go so I can have my gym battle."
"You're welcome and good luck with your match!" Master Hiroshi said.
"Thank you," Callista's voice faded as she waved and raced down the stairs. As she ran out of the tower doors she thought to herself. "If I don't make it to the battle it will make me fall more behind my rivals than I already am."
Callista ran as fast as she legs could carry her towards a huge purple building in the distance.
A young man with blue hair flowing over his eyes looked at his watch and shook his head. "Looks like your friend isn't going to make it."
Emily looked at her watch. He was right; it was ten minutes until 8 o'clock. "She will be here. I know she will."
"Unless," Ruby interrupted as she began to worry more.
"Unless what?" Emily asked, afraid of what Ruby was going to say.
"I didn't want to say it, but what if something happened to her?" Ruby said.
"Don't say that."
"I told you I didn't want to say it."
The man looked at his watch again and there was only five more minutes left. "She isn't going to make it."
"Who isn't going to make it?" A girl voice called out as the elevator door opened and out jogged Callista. "I know it's not me."
"She made it!" Ruby cheered.
"What happened?" Emily asked.
"I'll explain it to you later," Callista turned her attention to the group of trainers over on the other side of the battlefield. "First I want to challenge Falkner for a gym battle!"
The man with the blue hair answered her, "Unfortunately, you will not be able to challenge Falkner."
"What?"
" He has left the gym eight years ago to do more training with his flying pokemon after he was defeated by a boy and his Charizard."
"You're kidding!" Callista cried out. "Does this mean I won't be able to battle?
"But, like I was telling you friends, that is why I am here. My name is Skylar and I am Falkner's cousin and the temporary gym leader of Violet City until Falkner returns. He had left me in charge because I too share the same love for bird pokemon like him. So if you want that Zephyr Badge you have to challenge me to get it."
"I don't care who I must battle," Callista replied. "I am Callista from Olivine City and I want that badge so I challenge you to a battle."
"I accept of course," Skylar grinned. "But here we do things more officially." He looked over at a near by male assistant and nodded. The assistant stepped over to the center of the sidelines to be the referee for the battle. "Callista from Olivine City has challenged the Violet City gym leader to a pokemon battle. This will be a three on three battle. At stake is the Zephyr Badge. Begin the match when ready."
"Are you ready to begin?" Skylar asked as she took her place on the battlefield.
"Ready," Callista replied as she grabbed her first pokeball and waited to see the first pokemon Skylar was going to send out.
Skylar grabbed his first pokeball and tossed it into the air. "Go."
"Hoooooot," a large Hoothoot flew out of its pokeball.
"A Hoothoot," Callista thought as she recalled Delora having a Hoothoot. This one seemed a lot bigger than hers.
As the Hoothoot hovered over the battlefield, Callista chose her first pokemon. "I choose you Chikorita!" Callista shouted as she released her pokemon.
"Chika chika," Chikorita chirped as it prepared for battle.
Emily nudged Ruby, "A grass pokemon against a flying pokemon? I hope she knows what she is doing?"
"Yeah," Ruby replied as the two friends waited and watched on the sidelines.
Skylar just shook his head; he figured this would be an easy match. "Go Hoothoot tackle attack!"
"Chikorita use your tackle attack too," Callista ordered as Chikorita and Hoothoot charged at each other.
With all of their strength the two pokemon collided with each other using their tackle attacks. Since Hoothoot was using the power of flight, its attack was stronger and Chikorita was tossed to the side.
"Now Hoothoot use your wing attack!" Skylar called out.
"Dodge it!"
Hoothoot dove toward Chikorita with its wings spread and tried to hit Chikorita with a wing attack, but Chikorita was able to leap to the side causing the Hoothoot to miss.
"Vine whip attack!" Callista ordered as Chikorita stretched out two of its whips toward its opponent.
Chikorita tried to whip the Hoothoot, but each time Hoothoot managed to dodge each and every attempt. Hoothoot flew down towards the Chikorita again as it got prepared for another attack.
"Chikorita stand your ground!"
"Bad idea," Skylar smirked. "Hoothoot finished it was a wing attack."
"Hoothoot hooooo," Hoothoot cried as it dove toward the small grass pokemon.
"Get ready," Callista said as Chikorita prepared itself.
Just as Hoothoot drew closer, Callista ordered her attack.
"Vine whip it!"
Chikorita quickly shot out its vine whip striking Hoothoot right in the face as it approached. Hoothoot was so stunned by the attack it crashed onto the floor of the battlefield.
"Hoothoot!" Skylar cried out when he realized his pokemon was in trouble.
"Now use your sleep powder!" Callista ordered as Chikorita released its clear, sparkling dust.
A blanket of sleep powder covered the Hoothoot as it struggled to get back up onto its feet. Hoothoot's eyes began to close at the powder began to take effect.
"Hoothoot get out of there!" Skylar tried to coach is pokemon on, but it was no use. Within moments Hoothoot was fast asleep.
The referee waited a moment to see if Hoothoot would stay asleep and when he realized it was he announced the victor. "Hoothoot is unable to continue the match. Chikorita is the winner."
Chikorita started to jump up and down in place. "Chika chika chika," Chikorita cheered as the green everstone clanged back and forth on the chain from around Chikorita's neck.
"Great work Chikorita," Callista praised.
Emily and Ruby were impressed.
"Wow, she did it," Emily said.
"Callista is a lot stronger than she appears to be. She sure is getting better." Ruby looked at the celebrating Chikorita. "And Chikorita is awesome."
Skylar called his pokemon back. "Hoothoot return." Hoothoot returned to its pokeball and Skylar grabbed another. "Your Chikorita maybe have gotten lucky against Hoothoot. But your little grass pokemon won't stand a chance against my next speedy pokemon."
Callista glared, "My Chikorita can take it! Bring it on!"
"If you say so," Skylar reached back and tossed his second pokeball into the air. "Go Pidgeotto!"
"Pidgeooooooooo," Pidgeotto soared out of its pokeball and was already ready for battle.
Chikorita looked a little worried so Callista tried to coach it to continue. "Don't give in Chikorita," Callista shouted. "You can do it!"
Chikorita nodded.
"Heh, since you are so confident why don't you make the first move." Skylar chuckled.
"Fine then, I will. Chikorita use your razor leaf attack," Callista ordered as Chikorita released several razor leaves toward the Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto climb!" Skylar called out as Pidgeotto bolted into the air. "Now dive!"
Pidgeotto soared into a giant loop to change its direction and the dove toward the Chikorita.
"Wing attack!"
"Chikorita get out of the way!"
Chikorita just barely was able to hop out of the way of Pidgeotto's attack as Pidgeotto missed its target and flew back into the air.
"Chikorita can still out maneuver your precious flying pokemon," Callista was getting a little cocky. "And you said Pidgeotto was fast."
Skylar grinned. "Trust me, you haven't seen anything yet." Skylar turned his attention to his Pidgeotto. "Pidgeotto dive again!"
Pidgeotto dove towards the Chikorita once again. This time Callista wanted to show Skylar how fast her pokemon was, so she ordered her Chikorita to attack.
"Use your vine whip to stop it," Callista ordered as Chikorita stretched out its vine whips.
Just as Pidgeotto approached, Skylar ordered an attack. "Use quick attack!"
Pidgeotto bolted towards the Chikorita and before Chikorita knew what was happening Pidgeotto flew through Chikorita's vine whips and struck the little pokemon with a mighty blow. Chikorita was tossed to the side. It struggled to its feet as Callista tried to coach her pokemon back up. She was a little surprised and wasn't expecting such a fast attack. Once Chikorita managed to find the strength to stand Callista focused back on the battle. She realized she got a little carried away when she won the match against Hoothoot. Now she was facing a flying pokemon that really puts Chikorita at a disadvantage. She would have to think up a strategy so Chikorita could have a fighting chance.
Skylar wanted to put an end to Chikorita's battling and decided to attack while Callista was hesitating. "Pidgeotto use your wing attack!"
Pidgeotto dove down, with its wings spread out, towards the Chikorita.
"Chikorita use your sleep powder," Callista ordered as Chikorita begin releasing its sleep powder towards the approaching Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto stop and use your whirlwind," Skylar shouted out quickly as Pidgeotto stopped and begin flapping its wings furiously. Pidgeotto's wing power built up a huge gust of wind. The wind blew towards Chikorita's attack and not only did the wind stop the powder from moving towards Pidgeotto. It began to push the powder towards Chikorita. Before Callista knew what was going on Chikorita's sleep powder covered the little grass pokemon and Chikorita quickly nodded off to sleep.
"Chikorita, wake up!" Callista cried out, but it was too late. Chikorita was fast asleep still standing on its feet.
"Finish it!" Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto bolted towards the pokemon and struck Chikorita with a final quick attack.
Still asleep, Chikorita was tossed to the side, unable to move.
"Chikorita is unable to battle," the referee announced. "Pidgeotto is the winner."
Skylar just smiled as Callista called her pokemon back.
"Poor Chikorita," Ruby whispered to Emily, "Beaten by its own attack."
"I knew Callista was getting a little to cocky," Emily replied. "I hate to say it, but maybe it was a good idea that she lost that round."
"Yeah," Ruby replied. Then she turned her attention back to the battle. "Come on Callista you can do it."
Callista thought to herself as she stared at the Pidgeotto. She wanted to use Pikachu, but she knew that electric pokemon had an advantage against flying types so he decided to go with the power of fire and save electricity for last. She grabbed a pokeball and called out her Growlithe, "I choose you."
Growlithe appeared from its pokeball.
Skylar was a little surprised at her choice. He was almost certain that she would pick another pokemon weak against bird pokemon.
"A fire type huh?" Skylar said, this time he didn't sound so smug. He decided to try to attack fast and hard. "Go Pidgeotto, use your quick attack!"
"Growlithe surround yourself with a fire spin," Callista cried out, remembering her battle with Victor.
Growlithe released its flamethrower and turned in a circle creating a circular barrier of flames between itself and Pidgeotto. Once Pidgeotto realized what was in front it quickly shot back up into the sky just barely missing the wall of flames. Pidgeotto flew in a giant loop to change direction.
"Pidgeotto use your gust attack to blow the flames away," Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto began flapping its wings violently and created another gust of wind. The wind blew the flames away from the Growlithe leaving the fire pokemon unprotected. "Now use your quick attack again!"
Pidgeotto stopped the gust attack and bolted towards Growlithe. This time Growlithe was not able to protect itself and was hit in the face by Pidgeotto's beak as it used its quick attack. Growlithe was pushed to the side, but it managed to stay on its feet.
Ruby shouted out to Callista, "I don't know if Growlithe is ready for a gym battle."
Callista disagreed. Other than the bare patches on its body where there was no fur it looked very healthy. Without turning her head away from the battle she shouted back, "Growlithe is fine." And if it does seem to be hurting I will call it back." Callista continued the battle. "Growlithe use your flamethrower."
Growlithe shot out a powerful blast of flames toward the Pidgeotto.
"Pidgeotto use your agility," Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto used its agility to dodge the attack.
"Try it again," Callista said as Growlithe used its flamethrower repeatedly and as Pidgeotto dodged each and every one of the attacks.
"Pidgeotto use your quick attack!"
Pidgeotto, once again, bolted towards Growlithe.
"Dodge it," Callista cried out.
Growlithe was just barely able to dodge the attack by leaping to the right as Pidgeotto zoomed past. Pidgeotto was traveling so fast she needed to plant its feet onto the ground in order to stop.
With Pidgeotto on the ground, this was Callista's chance to attack.
"Growlithe quick, tackle attack now!"
Growlithe charged at Pidgeotto.
"Agility now!"
Pidgeotto bolted into the sky as Growlithe slowed to a stop due to its target moving. Pidgeotto used its agility again to get behind its opponent.
"Wing attack!"
Pidgeotto dove with its wings stretched out. With its back towards Pidgeotto, Growlithe was unable to move out of the way in time. Pidgeotto struck Growlithe in the back with a powerful wing attack.
"Growlithe no!" Callista cried out as she saw her pokemon get tossed of its feet and onto the floor. She saw her Growlithe struggle to stand. "Growlithe are you okay?"
"Growl!" Growlithe answered, and this time Callista knew it really was okay by the way her pokemon was acting.
"Alright," Callista cheered. "Flame thrower!"
Growlithe released a flamethrower toward the Pidgeotto as Pidgeotto dove to the right to dodge.
"This could obviously keep going forever," Skylar complained. "Let's end this now."
Callista grinned, "Yes, let's." She knew he was planned a forward attack. "Get ready Growlithe, I need to you to be quick on this."
"Growl," Growlithe nodded as it braced itself for the attack, and listened to its master's orders. Callista spoke so low that even Ruby and Emily had a hard time hearing her and they were closer than anyone.
"Pidgeotto use your wing attack and finish it off!" Skylar ordered as Pidgeotto dove down to gain speed. Moving close to the floor of the battlefield, Pidgeotto sped towards the Growlithe with its wings spread wide.
"Steady." Callista said as Pidgeotto approached. "Steady."
Pidgeotto was almost upon Growlithe when Callista quickly called out, "Smoke screen!"
Growlithe released a large cloud of black smoke from its mouth. Pidgeotto, still determined to hit its mark flew into the smoke. Pidgeotto couldn't see a thing while inside so it stopped in midair to try to blow the smoke away. Before it was able to begin flapping its wings for any type of attack, a big force knocked into the bird from behind and slammed it onto the ground.
On the outside, Skylar was getting nervous when he realized his pokemon flew into the smoke, but then never emerged. "Pidgeotto!" He called.
Callista was worried too, but if everything went according to plan, Growlithe should be okay. Everyone watched and waited until the smoke began to rise and clear away from the area. Skylar knew right away what had happened. When Pidgeotto flew into the smoke it didn't know where it was going or where Growlithe was which helped Growlithe dodge the attack easily. Then when Pidgeotto stopped to try to blow the smoke away, that was a perfect opportunity for Growlithe to sneak behind Pidgeotto and attack with its take down. Now, with Pidgeotto pinned to the ground by Growlithe's strong front paws, everyone knew this battle had changed direction and was now leaning in Callista's favor.
Skylar was trying anything to help his Pidgeotto escape. "Agility! Pidgeotto use agility!"
Pidgeotto squirmed and wiggled, but Growlithe held it down tightly. It knew that if they wanted to win it had to keep Pidgeotto on the ground. Pidgeotto could hear a low growl build up inside the Growlithe's gut. Growlithe snarled and showed its teeth.
"Show that bird who is boss Growlithe and give it a roar!" Callista ordered.
Growlithe, with its muzzle close to Pidgeotto's head, opened its mouth wide as it let out an ear-piercing roar. "GRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"
Pidgeotto flinched and shook in fear. As Growlithe's roars dimmed to a loud growl, it finished its attack with a leer as it slowly stepped off of its opponent. Pidgeotto continued to shake until, to Skylar's surprise, it retreated back into its pokeball.
"What the..." Skylar jumped when his pokemon fled.
Everyone, except Callista and Skylar, had covered their ears. When the referee realized what had happened he announced his decision, "Pidgeotto refuses to continue the battle. Growlithe wins."
Emily and Ruby let their hands down from their ears and immediately cheered.
"Wow, that was awesome," Ruby said.
"Totally amazing," Emily cheered.
Skylar smiled. "That was pretty impressive. I have never seen a move like that before. That was a great strategy." He pulled his final pokeball from his belt. "However, you'll have to think up better ideas than that in order to defeat my last pokemon."
Callista looked down at her Growlithe. It was already exhausted and was panting heavily for breath. It won't last much longer so maybe if she can hit the next pokemon with a good strong attack, Growlithe wouldn't have to do much.
"I choose you!" Skylar cried out as he tossed his pokeball into the air.
The pokeball opened and out flew a giant brown bird.
Callista didn't know what it was! "What is that?" She shouted as she pulled out her pokedex.
Pokedex- "Fearow, the Beak pokemon; the evolved form of Spearow. This bird pokemon has a really nasty temper and is extremely dangerous. Use extreme caution."
"A Fearow." Callista repeated as she stared at her opponent while she put her pokedex away.
Emily nudged Ruby, "Do you think Callista will be able to beat a Fearow?"
"We'll soon see," Ruby replied, then she called out to Callista, "Come on Callista you can do it!"
Callista and Skylar stared at each other as they waited to see who would attempt to make the first move. Callista was a little impatient so since Fearow was standing on the ground she decided to try to strike first. "Growlithe hurry and use your flame thrower!"
Growlithe shot out a strong flamethrower attack.
"Fearow use whirl wind," Skylar ordered.
Still standing on the ground, Fearow started to flap its wings violently as it created a big whirlwind. As the two attacks collided with each other, the whirlwind, which was obviously stronger, pushed against the flames of Growlithe's attack and sent it back to the fire pokemon. Growlithe wasn't expecting this so it couldn't dodge in time and got hit with its own flamethrower attack. Growlithe got knocked to the ground.
"I can't believe it," Callista gasped, she wasn't expecting that either. "Come on you have to get up!"
Growlithe struggled to get back onto its feet.
"Finish it off with a drill peck attack!"
Fearow flew up over the ground and dove towards Growlithe.
"Growlithe!" Callista cried, but it was too late. Fearow struck her pokemon with a mighty drill peck attack, which tossed the Growlithe over to the side. As Growlithe lay on the ground the referee waited and then announced, "Growlithe is unable to battle. Fearow is the winner."
"This is bad," Emily whispered to Ruby. "Callista only has one pokemon left."
"Yeah, but so does Skylar." Ruby replied. "If Callista really uses her head she would choose Pikachu so she could at least have an advantage."
This was exactly what Callista was thinking. Callista called her Growlithe and then she grabbed Pikachu's pokeball and called out her pokemon. "This battle is far from being over! Pikachu I choose you!"
The cute little yellow mouse appeared from its pokeball. "Pika pika."
Skylar was impressed again. "Fine choice," Skylar said, but then he grinned. "Too bad that little runt won't save you."
Callista glared. She didn't like it when trainers call her Pikachu a runt. "We'll show you!" Callista looked down at Pikachu. "Give it a thunderbolt attack!"
"Pika," Pikachu began charging up its electricity.
"Fearow fly up high!" Skylar commanded as Fearow began climbing until it reached a safe distance away.
Pikachu released its thunderbolt attack toward the Fearow. Fearow didn't budge from its place in the sky and Callista thought this would make an easy hit. Suddenly to Callista's surprise the electric attack stopped about a foot away from the Fearow and then disappeared.
"What happened," Callista said as Pikachu stopped the attack.
"Fearow is too high, Pikachu's electricity can't travel that far!" Ruby called out to Callista.
"Oh no," Callista thought, but then she shook her mind clear. "This just means I have to attack when it is further down." Callista thought to herself as she looked at her opponent.
"Fury attack!" Skylar shouted as Fearow dove toward the Pikachu.
"Try to dodge!" Callista called out.
Callista and Pikachu moved too slowly as Pikachu got hit several times by Fearow's fury attack. Pikachu got thrown to the side as Fearow climbed back up into the sky.
"Pikachu!" Callista shouted as she saw her Pikachu jump back onto its feet.
"Fury attack again!" Skylar commanded as Fearow dove once again.
"Try your agility to dodge and try to grab a hold of it!" Callista shouted, as Pikachu was able to dodge to the right and out of the way of Fearow's attack. Just as Fearow flew by, Pikachu leaped onto its back and hung on to the Fearow's neck as the bird pokemon rose back into the sky.
"Get that Pikachu off of you!" Skylar shouted as Fearow began to swerve back and forth trying to toss the pokemon off.
"Quick Pikachu, use your thunder shock!" Callista ordered as Pikachu charged up its attack.
Fearow continued to swerve to try to shake the pokemon off, but before it could Pikachu released its thunder shock straight into Fearow's body.
"FEEEEARRRRRRRRR," Fearow screamed as the thunder shock did tremendous damage.
"Get it off!" Skylar shouted as Fearow flinched for a few more seconds and then swung its body around to toss the Pikachu off. Pikachu flew off the Fearow and fell to the ground.
"Pikachu!" Callista cried out as she watched her Pikachu fall to the ground, landing on its face and stomach. Pikachu attempted to get back onto its feet. "Pikachu are you okay?" Pikachu made it back to its feet and nodded. "Great!"
It struggled but Fearow managed to stay in the air.
"You just won't quit will you?" Skylar said. "We'll just have to finish you off the hard way. Fearow use your fury attack!"
Fearow dove and attacked the Pikachu.
"Agility!" Callista called as Pikachu managed to dodge the fury attack by moving side by side. "Thundershock it again!"
Pikachu charged its attack and shot it at the Fearow.
"Climb!" Skylar shouted as Fearow bolted into the sky, dodging the attack.
Callista knew that Pikachu wouldn't last for too much longer so she had to think up something in order to finish this battle fast.
Skylar decided he wanted to end the battle first. "We need to get this battle over with," Skylar said as he noticed the sun began to drop down into the horizon. He then turned his attention back to the battle. "Use Aeroblast!" Skylar commanded as his pokemon began to glow.
"Aeroblast is the strongest attack a flying pokemon has!" Ruby shouted.
"You better forfeit," Emily said. "Or Pikachu could be in real trouble."
Callista refused to give up and already knew what she was going to do.
"I really need to you be quick on this Pikachu," Callista said again, but this time to Pikachu.
"Go, Aeroblast it now!" Skylar ordered as Fearow burst into a beam of light, dove and bolted at the Pikachu.
"Steady," Callista said as Fearow gained speed. "Steady."
As soon as Fearow was almost upon Pikachu Callista ordered, "Agility!"
Pikachu raced out of the way of Fearow causing the bird pokemon to miss, got behind it and turned to face it.
"Hurry Pikachu, use thunder wave!" Callista ordered.
Pikachu charged the attack and released two bolts of electricity towards the Fearow.
"Fearow climb!" Skylar commanded, unfortunately Fearow was still traveling at a super speed so it didn't have time to change direction. Pikachu's thunder wave struck the Fearow and held it in place. "Fearow no! Get away from there!"
Pikachu's thunder wave was strong and Fearow was trapped in the electricity and couldn't move.
"Now finish that Fearow off with a Thunder attack," Callista shouted.
Pikachu stopped the thunder wave and with the static bolts still running through Fearow's body the bird pokemon was still paralyzed and couldn't move an inch. Pikachu charged up the attack and aimed it at the helpless Fearow. "Thunder now!" Pikachu released a powerful thunder attack straight into the Fearow. Even though the powerful shock unparalyzed the bird it also did tremendous damage and by the time Pikachu stopped the attack Fearow collapsed onto the ground and fainted.
The referee held up his hand and called out, "Fearow is unable to battle. The winner of the match and the battle is Callista and Pikachu!"
"We did it Pikachu!" Callista held out her arms as Pikachu ran to its trainer. She hugged her Pikachu, "Great job you were great." Then she looked down at her waist as her other pokeballs. "You all did great!"
Ruby and Emily both cheered and ran up to Callista to congratulate her.
"That was awesome!" Ruby said.
"You did it!" Emily cheered.
"Thanks you guys," Callista said. "I couldn't have done it without your support."
"Fearow return," Skylar called his pokemon back and begin clapping in congratulations to Callista as his assistants did the same.
Callista placed her Pikachu onto the ground and then called it back into its pokeball.
Skylar immediately approached her. "Your pokemon sure are a lot faster than I thought," Skylar complimented, "And the variety of your attacks is incredible. You don't use the same attacks all the time so I never knew what attack your pokemon would use next. That is a great way to battle." Skylar then reached into this pant pocket and pulled something small and silver. "I now present you with the Zephyr badge as proof of your victory."
"Wow, thank you!" Callista replied as she received the badge from Skylar.
"You are really strong and I'm sure you will make it far in the Johto league," Skylar said. "If my cousin Falkner was here I'm sure he would be more than happy to battle someone with your strength and skill."
Callista just blushed. Even with all the compliments she still didn't think she was all that good, but she was happy she won her badge.
"Thank you," Callista said. "And it was awesome battling against your flying team, but I think its time for us to hit the road and find a place to sleep."
"There is a pokemon center over by the Pokemon Academy just down the street. There are always beds there," Skylar said as he held out his hand. "I wish you good luck."
"Thanks again!" Callista replied as she took his hand and shook.
As the trio left the gym, Emily and Ruby couldn't stop talking about the battle.
"You're Growlithe was great when it used its smoke screen," Ruby said.
"Pikachu was really fast," Emily said.
Callista barely hear them as she walked towards the Pokemon Center hoping for a nice comfortable bed.
"So where are we headed next?" Ruby asked.
This Callista heard and she quickly answered, "Are you kidding? The next pokemon gym of course!"
"Of course," Ruby and Emily responded.
As the sky darkened the trio headed towards the Pokemon Center so they can rest up for their journey to the next town and then soon to the next gym.