DISCLAIMER: I don't own Pokemon. I do own this story.
Right then, here's Chapter 2 of our journey intothe Pokemon World Cup
Chapter 2: The Opening Ceremony
'...And welcome to the Indigo Stadium for the opening ceremony of the 2005 Pokemon World Cup!' said the announcer as the ceremony got underway. Backstage, tension was high as the 32 players prepared for their entrance. The crowds were massive and the world's media had congregated on the Indigo Stadium to witness a great event. Ash was chatting to Thomas, whom they had met on the way to their lodge. 'I'm from Pallet Town' said Ash. 'And I come from New York' said Thomas. 'I wonder who we're going to face first' said Ash. 'I dunno' said Thomas.
Back outside, the crowds were enjoying the performances taking place. Then they ended and the announcer came on. 'Thank you very much to the performers for that great show. Now it's time to welcome the most important people in this tournament, the contestants!' The crowd cheered as the announcer named each contestant as they came through the tunnel. '...next up, from Pallet Town, Japan, it's Ash Ketchum' Ash came out of the tunnel to a roar from the crowd. Misty and Brock were sitting in a special area of the grandstands reserved for friends and family of the contenders. Ash's mum and Professor Oak were back in Pallet Town watching with most of the townsfolk (except for Gary Oak, who, of course, had also made it to the tournament) on TV in a pub. Ash stood by the press box for photos and then took his place next to the others. The announcer went through the other contestants, each getting a huge welcome from the crowd. In front of them was a big stage with a table on it and on the table was the trophy, the biggest prize in Pokemon. 'We wish the contenders and their Pokemon the best of luck. Now it's time to welcome our special guest to officially open the Pokemon World Cup, the President of the I.P.A (International Pokemon Authority), John Williams!' The crowd cheered as the president walked on stage. 'I would like to start off by congratulating each and every one of you for collecting the 12 badges needed to qualify for the tournament. By accomplishing this, you have proved your readiness to take on each other for the title of Pokemon World Champion...' The president continued his speech.
'And now all that there is left for me to do is to declare the 2005 Pokemon World Cup...open!' The crowd cheered as he walked up the pathway towards the button which would launch the arrow up to light the flame. The crowd went silent. He pressed the button and an arrow went up over the contestants and lit the torch at the other end of the stadium, launching a barrage of fireworks all around the stadium. As the fireworks display came to an end, the stadium was showered with tickertape as a spectacular opening ceremony came to an end. The announcers voice came on. 'Ladies and gentlemen that concludes the opening ceremony of the Pokemon World Cup. We hope you all enjoy the tournament.'
Well, there ya have it. The tournament officially begins in the next chappie, so stay tuned. R and R