Author's Note:
Here it is, a return to Hoenn for meeting May's family. We also get a proper in-look on Max. Just like with Tracey, I felt he wasn't given the proper treatment in the anime. My first thought was to ignore him and only have him appear alongside his parents but then I thought the more interesting approach would be to actually make him an interesting character. Early Hoenn he will be the snarky know it all, which was a little entertaining in the original anime but hopefully you'll soon see how I plan on expanding his character. Not much else to say, just remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin.
Chapter five: There's No place like Hoenn
"Phan Phanpy! Phanpy Phan!" she heard Ash's ground type chirp happily as he walked by his trainers side.
Even since finishing up the afternoon training session, they have been on the road back to Petalburg. While May was excited to show off her two Pokémon to her family, she was also apprehensive. Ash already made it clear about his intentions or lack of but that wouldn't stop her father from thinking otherwise.
"What's Phanpy saying?" she asked.
"He's not saying but singing," he replied, "I'm starting to think Duskull is a bad influence on him."
"What's he singing then?" she asked.
"Spoopy scary skeleton, sends shivers down your spine," Ash spoke in a deadpan tone, "shrieking skulls with shock your soul, seal your doom tonight."
"Cheer up, Ash, at least he's having fun," Serena encouraged, "besides, he can't be any worst an influence than Gengar."
"Your right," he agreed, "but maybe it's a sign about us having ghost types."
"What's a Gengar?" she found herself asking.
"A ghost poison type and really strong in battle," Serena replied, "Ash caught her as a Haunter but she was better suited for my goal with how much she shows off, so we traded, and she evolved. She's... unique, let's say."
Nodding in understanding and not really wanting to get into it, she turned back ahead. A smile formed on her lips as she watched her two friends interact with their Pokémon. They might not have all of their teams out right now but those that are seem to be having fun with them. Reaching down to her belt, she took her Wurmple's device off her belt and rolled it around her fingers.
"If you want to let Torchic and Wurmple out, go ahead," Serena encouraged, "I'm sure they'd love the time spent together."
Smiling towards her, she pressed the button on the device, and it enlarged in her hand. Bursting open with a red light, her pure bug type Pokémon appeared with a happy chirp. Nuzzling her cheek against May's, she giggled at the ticklish sensation.
It was a little surreal for her, if you asked just the day before then she would've said other than her starter, she wouldn't have caught any other Pokémon. She never fully understood the appeal that Pokémon held, a creature which needed a ton of support and care. It's not that she hated them, not by any means, it just seemed like a ton of work and for a being she couldn't even understand what they were saying.
But now, she kind of understood it. Wurmple is not only adorable but really friendly. She might not be able to converse with her but that seems trivial with how much fun they have been having. Not to mention the thought of when she evolves, the excitement filled her veins as she trembled, ready to burst.
Wurmple went forward and began crawling all over her body. May couldn't help but properly laugh at the sensation of the bug slivering across her bare arms and legs. It was actually quite impressive that she was so stable despite her still walking forward. Her friends soon came to stop right in front and May slowed her pace to stop next to them as her first caught Pokémon came to a stop on her shoulder, her eyes marvelling at the view.
She too took in the sight below her. Petalburg wasn't massive but she preferred it that way. Orange bricked houses with triangle-solar panelled roofs, paved the streets below with a few shops in between. A large Pokémon centre was near the entrance from route one-hundred-and-four. Looking towards the back of the city, she smiled at the sight of the large, glass building which was her father's workplace.
"Wow, Petalburg is unlike any city we've seen," Ash gasped, "right Serena?"
"Yeah," she added, "it's nice to see a suburbs like this. It reminds me of Vanaville town."
"Oh yeah, I always forget you wasn't born in Pallet," Ash sighed, "but if Vanaville is anything like this, I can't wait to see it. Whenever we go to Kalos."
"Vanaville?" May muttered, "what are you talking about?"
"Oh right," Serena shook her head, "you see May, while I may live in Pallet now, I was actually born in Kalos and spent my first few years growing up in Vanaville. I couldn't tell you a thing about it now but sometimes, when I'm dreaming, I can picture it perfectly."
"So why not go to Kalos then?" she asked, "if your so nostalgic for it, I mean."
"I don't know," she uttered, casting a not so subtle glance at Ash, "guess everything was just telling us Hoenn was meant to be our next stop."
"Whatever," she sighed, not fully believing the excuse. She turned back towards the city below, "come on guys, we can stay at my house tonight. Its further away than the Pokémon centre but-"
"We get it, you want to show of your new Torchic and Wurmple to your folks," Ash smiled, "and it'll be a good chance to learn about your dad. For our gym battle, I mean."
They set off down the path towards the city and soon became surrounded by the suburban streets. May smiled as she waved to many of the locals, whether they were attending to the gardens in front of their house, walk along with some Pokémon or another or even just chatting with their own friends. After living here for a couple years and her father being the local gym leader, many of the residents know her by name... even if she couldn't return the gesture.
"Wow May, Petalburg is even prettier up close," Serena cooed, "I bet living in a place like this, with the warm sun every day would be awesome."
"I know, right?" May smiled, stretching her arms up and relaxing under the warm tropical sun, "when we lived in Unova, we lived in a big city. It was alright with plenty to do but it was really noisy and crowded. I much prefer it here, it's like a taste of wildlife that Petalburg has."
"I get what you mean," Ash smiled, "while cities and beds are great, I've really come to appreciate the joys of camping. I think I actually prefer camping out now-adays. No distractions or limitations on having the Pokémon out with the endless space. Not to mention the countless possibilities of meeting new friends. It's just the best."
"Hehehe, right," May chuckled nervously.
Not really wanting to continue the discussion as it took a turn she'd rather avoid, she turned around and recalled her bug type Pokémon. Without needing to worry about losing her, she doubled down and bolted through the sunny streets. A new excitement filled her veins as she closed in on the family home.
She reached the family home; it matched all the others that they passed in the suburbs. Red roof tiles most covered by solar panels and orange bricks building up the walls. Opening the door, she stepped in, catching her friends reflection in the windows.
"Mum! Dad!" she called out, "it's me, May! I'm home!"
A scatter of footsteps scratched across the laminated flooring as she stepped inside, letting her friends in. They carefully closed the door as a white blur caught her attention. One of her day's friendlier Pokémon came running up and jumped at her leg. She smiled down at the normal type and kneeled to scratch his head, laughing as he licked her. He had a slender-bodied, quadrupedal Pokémon. Most of his fur was coloured white, but he had several brown stripes stretched the length of his body before ending in an arrowhead shape on his forehead. There were additional stripes on each side of his bushy tail and on his cheeks. He had sharp, elongated claws and small pointed teeth but she knew he'd never use them on her. He had small, tuft-like ears, long cheek fur and bright blue eyes.
"Hey Linoone, I'm happy to see you too," she laughed at the ticklish show of affection, "I missed you too."
"Cool, Linoone," she heard Ash as he pulled out his Pokedex:
Linoone, The Rushing Pokémon. The final evolved form of Zigzagoon (Hoenn variant). Linoone always runs full speed and only in straight lines. If facing an obstacle, it makes a right-angle turn to evade it. This Pokémon is very challenged by gently curving roads.
"Linoone here is one of my dad's Pokémon that he uses at the gym," she explained, standing up as the normal type went sniffing her two travelling companions, "unlike most of his Pokémon, he caught Linoone as a Zigzagoon when we moved to Petalburg. He tends to spend most days here at home and only really goes to the gym if dad needs him for a challenger."
"Awesome May, he seems really friendly and cute," Serena smiled, kneeling down herself to greet the pure normal type.
"So, what sort of badge level does he use Linoone for?" Ash asked, putting his device away.
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"Gym leaders change their teams based on the experience of the challenger they're facing," Ash replied, "it's a way to ensure challengers are given a proper test of their skills and not just curb stomped at their first battle. I would've thought your dad would explained that when he had challengers."
"Maybe but we never got to watch his gym battles," May replied, "he didn't want us putting his challenger off."
"Hello!" a familiar female voice called out, "is someone there, Linoone?"
"It's me, mum!" May called out. Turning towards the main living room. Her mother appeared around the corner and engulfed her in a hug, which she gladly returned, "I missed you."
"You was only gone for a day, nearly two," she replied, "but don't forget you can call home. I'll always be on the other end ready to speak to you."
"So, where's dad?" she asked, "and Max?"
"Your dad is at the gym, a visitor or challenger or something," she shrugged it off, "he didn't specify. And your brother is out back with the others."
"Brother?" her two travelling companions questioned at the same time.
"Oh, you have friends," she smiled, turning towards them, "and who might you both be?"
"I'm Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town in Kanto," he introduced, "and this is Pikachu."
"Pikapi."
"And I'm Serena Yvonne, also from Pallet," she smiled, "and this is Sylveon."
"Sylv."
"Ash was the trainer who Professor Birch brought over to give us some tips for starting out," May explained, "he made it to the final of the silver conference."
"That's wonderful dear," she smiled, "and its lovely to meet you both. Thank you for helping bring May home."
"It's no trouble at all," Serena replied.
"I bet you must be starving," her mother continued, "your more than welcome to join us and stay the night too."
"Thank you, Mrs Maple," Ash bowed in gratitude, "that would be great."
"Any friends of May's is always welcome here," she replied, "if you wouldn't mind, though, you could help with setting the table. And May, could you go and fetch that brother of yours?"
Nodding with a smile, she took off through the house as her mother lead her new friends towards the kitchen. Opening the back door, she stepped outside and skipped across the garden to the large greenhouse at the back. She pulled the handle down and stepped inside. Large trees and shrubbery filled the field, but the only sign of life was her father's Swellow, who was soaring over. No doubt Max was somewhere deep in the building with his other Pokémon.
"Hey Max, mum said its time for dinner so hurry up!" she called out.
Waiting a few seconds, the faint patter of footsteps could be heard, and they slowly got louder once more. Her little brother soon came running out of the bushes, panting lightly as he came to a stop right in front of her.
"Hey... May..." he greeted, trying to regain his breath, "when did you get here?"
"Just now," she smiled, "and listen, I've got some friends who I've been travelling with staying. So, you better not embarrass me in front of them."
"I wouldn't worry about that," he smirked, a signature snarky tone in his voice as he pushed his glasses up, "Afterall, you do a good enough job of embarrassing yourself without my help. Remember the Tentacool incident?"
"You only know about that because mum and dad told you," she yelled, "and you better not bring it up again!"
Sighing as her little brother ran off ahead, she took after him, making sure to close the greenhouse behind her. Once inside she, she was hit with the powerful scent of her mother's cooking and followed her nose to the source. Appearing in the doorway, just behind Max, she saw her friends Pokémon out with bowls off food scattered around the floor.
"Wow! So many Pokémon!" Max cheered, charging into the room, "Pikachu, Phanpy, Granbull, Duskull." he paused to take a deep breath. "Sylveon, Murkrow, Hitmontop, Cacnea and Wurmple!"
"May, why don't you let your Pokémon out to eat," her mother smiled, dishing up plates of her pasta bake, "they must be hungry after the journey over here."
"Alright mum," she smiled, reaching for the two devices off her belt, "Torchic, Wurmple! Come on out because its dinner time!"
In a flash of light, her two Pokémon appeared on the kitchen floor. Her starter wasted no time in taking off, running around the room with happy chirps echoing out. Linoone was quick of the mark, blocking off the exits to the room and turning the fire type back around. While Wurmple crawled up her body and rested on her shoulder, affectionately nuzzling against her cheek.
"My," her mother cooed, "those two sure are lively. And it's almost hard to believe you caught a Pokémon already."
"Well it was thanks to Ash and Serena," she smiled, "they showed me how to, after all. But we saw some Beautifly's flying overhead and I just knew I had to have one. That's why we went searching for Wurmple."
"You spent a whole day just searching for a little Wurmple?" Max asked, "and whilst we're at it, why did you pick Torchic? If it was me, I definitely would've picked a Treecko."
Her starter stopped in his tracks and turned to face her little brother. With a glowing beak, expanding outward, he leaped and began peaking him as he fell on his behind, crying out in pain.
"Huh, I guess Torchic is already plenty trained," May shrugged, taking a seat at the table. Seeing her mother's disapproving look, however, caused her to sigh and turn back to the one-sided beat down, "fine. Torchic stop. He's had enough already."
Her fire type fell back down, seeing the marked-up boy. A satisfied smile spread over his beak. Maybe Pokémon really do have their uses.
"And that's exactly why I will be picking Treecko," Max coughed as he stood up, dusting himself off. She caught sight of her starter turning around and giving him a dirty look. She placed a bowl of the fire type Pokémon food on the floor next to her seat, with a bowl for Wurmple on the table next to her.
"Come on, Torchic, dinner time," she drew his attention.
"Huh, if I had just attacked someone, unprovoked then I wouldn't be having dinner," Max scoffed, as he took his seat opposite her.
"Well it wasn't exactly unprovoked," Ash spoke up, as he and Serena took their own seats, "and you should really be nicer to Torchic, Max. Any Pokémon can be strong if trained properly and shouldn't just be written off."
"And what would you know about-" he paused, turning to look at him. Max's eyes widened behind his glasses as them seemed to shimmer, an incredibly wide smile over taking his face, "wow, it's really you!"
"Erm, that's right. I'm me," Ash looked side to side, as if trying to get some help, "but how do you know me?"
"You was in the Johto league Silver conference!" Max declared. A similar excited expression came across the raven-haired boy's face, as he nodded in agreement, "you lost in the third round!"
"You mean the final?" Ash asked, grinding his teeth together.
"Well yeah, it was the final. But man, did that Torterra mess you up," he smiled, "anyway, don't you remember me?"
"Should I?" he blinked.
"I sent in a video question for your pre-victory tournament interviews!" he practically yelled, "don't you remember?!"
"Honestly, I mostly forgot that interview," he chuckled nervously, "there was some stuff going on concerning Granbull here and- yeah, that kinda took president over everything else. Sorry kid."
"It's fine, because your here and-" Max paused again, "wait. Why exactly are you here?"
"They've been travelling with me," May spoke up, "so stop bugging them."
"Its fine, May," Serena smiled, turning back to her boyfriend, "Max actually reminds me of how you were at his age, Ash."
"I never took Ash as a bookworm," she muttered.
"Well... there was one book I read," he chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head, "it was the story of Kanto's champion league. Detailing how each member of the elite four and champion reached their position."
A door opened from the other side of the house, and footsteps could be heard. It didn't take a genius to figure it was her dad returning home. He soon appeared in the doorway, dressed in his usual red and black striped shirt. He smiled as he took a deep breath, clearly smelling the food as her mum placed the plates down on the table.
"May, dear, your home," he smiled, his eyes dancing over to the couple on the other side of the table, "and we've got visitors. Hello, you to. My name is Norman."
"Hello sir," the cerulean-eyed girl smiled, "I'm Serena Yvonne and this is my boyfriend Ash Ketchum."
"Ash and Serena travelled with me from Professor Birch's lab," May spoke up, "and with their help, I was able to catch little Wurmple here."
"Well it's a pleasure to meet you both, and thank you for looking after my little girl," he smiled towards them taking a seat, he turned to face her once more with a smile on his face, "and I take it this little Torchic here was your starter?"
"Hehehe, he sure is," she smiled, "but how did you know?"
"It might have something to do with him eating right next to your chair," he chuckled, "or the fact that out of all these new Pokémon, Torchic is the only starter that the Professor would've prepared for you."
"Man, I just wish I could get my own starter already," Max mumbled, "I would just love to have a Treecko."
"Tor?" her starter turned his attention back to him.
"Watch it Max, or do you want a second round with Torchic?" May warned.
"Well I think Torchic is a fine Pokémon," her dad smiled, "not to mention your Wurmple is perfect for a starting trainer. Because of how quickly they evolve, it won't take you long to see how right you're doing things. Now May dear, I do have one question?"
"What is it, dad?" she asked.
"What happened to that bike of yours?" he asked.
"Erm, well... ya see," she stuttered, trying to rattle her brain for the best explanation. Pikachu, who had conveniently finished his food, stood up and cautiously walked out, whistling a nonchalant tune, "it kinda got hit by an attack in a battle we had outside of the lab."
"Hehehe, sorry. It was my Pikachu's attack that hit it," Ash nervously chuckled, bowing his head in an apology.
"It's not a big deal, bikes are replaceable," her dad smiled, "and it's easy for attacks to do more than intended. I remember one time when Slaking brought down our entire greenhouse with his earthquake attack."
"And walking is better for your health anyway," her mum added, "not to mention, a lot of wild Pokémon would be scared away by it passing through so it might be for the best that you'll be walking instead."
"hehehe, right," she chuckled nervously, slouching in her seat. Deciding to start on her meal, with a sudden lack of interest in talking.
The rest of the conversation turned towards her two friends as they dug into the meal. It was quite a nice evening, even if Max went a little overboard with his appraisal of Ash's Silver conference victory. Anyone would think he was the one infatuated and not her. The conversation quickly turned to the appending gym battle between the Kanto native and her dad but she kinda zoned out with the details.
As their meal came to an end, they moved into the living room where Max interest in all her friends Pokémon. She has to admit, seeing Phanpy flatten him with rollout or Cacnea stab him with a hug was quite entertaining, not that he seemed to mind. Soon, however, they had to retire for the evening. The couple sleeping in the living room due to the spare room being filled up, not that they were complaining.
Ash stirred, trying to twist from side to side as the morning sun shone down on his eyes. Raising his free arm to block it out, he caught sight of his sleeping girlfriend, with her head resting on his shoulder and a free hand resting on his chest. He felt a little self-conscious that she insisted on him sleeping shirtless again whilst she wore his black tank top. Even if it wasn't nearly as hot because of the air-conditioning.
"Hey babe," he whispered, "time to get up."
She stirred slightly, nuzzling her head against him as she looked up. Her shimmering blue orbs staring up at him with a small smile on her lips. He couldn't help but return that gesture, placing a quick kiss on her forehead. They were lying on the settee, having used it as a makeshift bed.
"Good morning," he whispered, "I think it's time we got up."
"Hehehe, what's the rush?" she asked, as he felt her other hand run up and down his back, "and what's with calling me babe?"
"I don't particularly want May's family walking in on us like this," he replied, "just imagine the explaining we'd have to do if Max, for example decides to come and have some early morning play time with our Pokémon."
"Maybe your right," she hummed, pushing herself up. Her eyes gave a not-so-subtle scan of his topless chest, "and what about the other thing? Babe."
He felt his own cheeks heat up at her flirty tone, a nervous chuckle entered his voice, "I-I guess that I thought we were teens now, and princess seemed a little like pet names kids would use. Fairy tale and stuff like that."
"I could see that," she considered, lowering her head to rub her nose against his. Leaving no gap between them, "but I do like fairy tales. And I always thought of you as my knight in shining armor."
He couldn't help but blush as she pecked his lips. Before they could get too deep into their make out session, the shuffle of feet from above alerted them to someone's awakening. It was difficult to know who, exactly, that doesn't really matter.
"I guess it is time to get up, after all," she sighed, pushing herself up from their embrace.
He sat up and watched her walk over to their backpacks leaning against the far wall. He couldn't help but appreciate her appearance as she pulled out her fresh pair of clothes out of the bag. Something about her wearing his top and it stretching down to her knees just excited him.
"I'm going to get changed in the downstairs bathroom," she explained, "you can use it after though."
"That's alright," he smiled, "I think I'll go and let the others out. Go over the plan for the battle."
She nodded and made her way over to the bathroom. Smiling as she closed the door behind her, he stood up and walked over to his backpack. Grabbing his Pokéballs, which were resting on top of his clean clothes. Holding them in his hand, he made his way over to the back door. With the keys hanging up on a hook next to them, he was able to unlock the door and step outside.
A cool breeze blew across his skin as the warm morning sun contrasted it. It was surprisingly pleasant as he stepped out over onto the grass and look at the large field, a glass greenhouse far in the background. He smiled as he tossed the three Pokéballs in the air, Pikachu running out from behind him.
"Come on out, everyone!" he shouted. In a flash of light, Phanpy, Granbull and Duskull appeared in front of him. His ground type was quick to curl up into a ball and take off across the ground. Chuckling at the energetic ball of boundless energy brought a smile to his face as he focused on the others, "alright guys, today is the day we face our first Hoenn gym leader. And its May's father, Norman."
"The first time is always special," Duskull shed a fake tear with a proud smirk under his skull face. He shook his head at the inappropriate joke.
"And I get to battle!" Granbull cheered.
"I know your excited Granbull, but we still haven't been told what sort of match its going to be," he told the fairy type, "so take a chill pill, okay?"
"I wouldn't worry about your Granbull's excitement," a male voice drew his attention, he turned to see Norman walking out, dressed in a similar attire to the day before, "she's clearly been raised well and her happiness is good indication to what sort of trainer you are."
"Wow, thanks Mr Maple," he smiled, "and good morning. Your praise really means a lot."
"Your welcome, Ash, and please call me Norman," he smiled, "and I'm glad to know that May will be travelling with such competent trainers. To tell the truth, I was a little worried about letting her become a trainer, but I feel a lot safer knowing she'll have you helping her out."
"You can count on me, Norman," he replied, "and I know Serena will help her out too. Honestly, she is probably more qualified than I am."
"I can believe that," he smiled, "out of me and Caroline, she was always the better one with both May and Max. And the fact you also already have girlfriend makes me happy. It means I don't need to try and ward you off making a move on May."
"I-I-"
"Don't take it personally, Ash, I just feel she's too young to have relationships like that," he replied, "it's nothing against you. But I do have to ask you to do one thing."
"What's that?" he asked.
"Can we put off your gym battle?" he asked, "I don't mean permanently but just after you have visited other gyms."
"Why?" Ash asked. Smiling as he caught sight of Serena walking towards them, greeting him with a quick hug.
"Morning, Mr Maple," she greeted.
"And morning to you too, Serena, but like I told Ash, you can call me Norman," he smiled, turning back to the raven-haired boy, "to answer your question, Ash, I'm asking you to do this because you're travelling with May. If you don't challenge my gym now, then you'll have a reason to revisit and-"
"So will May," Serena finished his sentiment, "but I'm sure she would want to return home and visit either way."
"You don't know my little girl like I do, she always had an adventurous streak and would wonder off in any direction just to see where it lead," he smiled, "I remember one time when we was at the beach and she tried to swim the ocean. Even got stuck with a school of Tentacool but that's a story for another time."
"I guess that putting our battle on hold would be alright," Ash mumbled, catching sight of his Pokémon. Duskull had already flown off after Phanpy, with his electric starter wasting no time in taking off after them... Granbull, however, looked on the verge of tears as she mumbled some incoherent gibberish.
"Is your Granbull alright?" Norman asked.
"I think it's because were postponing the battle," he explained, rubbing the top of her head in a comforting manner, "she loves to battle, even if not official."
"Well we could have a simple one on one battle," he suggested, "it wouldn't be official or for a badge, but how could I deny this little one a good battle? And I think I have just the opponent for her?"
"You do?" Ash asked.
"Sure do," he smiled, placing his two pinkie fingers in his mouth, and letting out a squealing whistle. With a mighty chirp, a black blur shot out of the greenhouse. It dived straight down and stopped just above them, perching itself on Norman's shoulder.
Ash gasped at the sight of the large, dark-blue bird Pokémon. A crest of feathers swept back from the top of its head. A blue stripe separates the red markings on its head and chest, and it had a white underside. It had small, narrow eyes, a pointed, yellow beak, and red feet with black talons. Each foot had three forward-facing toes and one pointed backward. Two long, pointed feathers with red tips formed its tail. It's wings tapered to a sharp point.
"Meet Swellow, I caught him shortly after we moved here," he smiled, "and he'll be the Pokémon to battle Granbull here. I'm sure he'll provide quite the challenge."
"Sounds great to me," he smiled, "what about you, Granbull?"
"Can't wait!" she cheered, slamming her fists together.
"Erm, Norman," Serena spoke up, "I don't mean to talk out of place, but isn't it dangerous to leave a window open on the green-house?"
"Normally, it would be," he smiled, scratching his Swellow under his beak, "but seeing as its where I keep all my gym Pokémon, I wouldn't want to trap them inside and anyone who goes looking in there for trouble... well, hehehe, I'd worry more about them than anything else."
"So, we'll be facing Swellow?" Ash mumbled, as he held his Pokedex out:
Swellow, The Swallow Pokémon. The final evolved form of Taillow. Swellow flies high above our heads, making graceful arcs in the sky. This Pokémon dives at a steep angle as soon as it spots its prey. The helpless prey is tightly grasped by Swellow's clawed feet, preventing escape
"He might not be my absolute strongest Pokémon," Norman smiled, "but I'm sure he'll provide you and Granbull, quite the battle."
"And we can't wait!" Ash smiled.
"Erm Ash, you might want to get dressed first," Serena suggested.
"Right," he deflated, "sorry, guess we just got distracted that I almost forgot."
With a nervous chuckle and mareepish grin, he scratched the back of his head walked back inside. Grabbing his clean change of clothes, he went towards the downstairs bathroom. Closing the door behind him, he quickly began changing into his normal clothes.
Once done, he found everyone settled down for breakfast. He took his seat next to Serena and once again smiled at all the Pokémon surrounding them, even if Norman's Swellow wasn't with him still. Apparently, all of Norman's Pokémon, except for Linoone were eating in the greenhouse. After finishing the morning meal, Norman collected his normal flying type and they set off towards the gym building.
May smiled and stretched her arms out under the warm sun. She giggled at the ticklish feel of her Wurmple nuzzling her cheek. Scratching her on top of the head, she turned to look at Ash, who was being bombarded with a series of questions from her brother.
"Erm, is everything alright May?" he asked, as he looked up towards her.
"Yeah, it's just," she mumbled, "you were really excited to earn a gym badge. Why have you decided not to battle?"
"Oh well, erm, ya see," he stuttered, "your dad said I'd need three Pokémon for an official battle."
"Since Ash is an experienced trainer, I've got to give him a special sort of challenge not based on number of badges, exactly," Norman stepped in.
"Pikachu, Granbull, Phanpy, Duskull," she counted, "but you have four Pokémon. Not to mention all of those back in Kanto, you told me about."
"Well, technically I do," he chuckled nervously, "but Duskull hasn't mastered Payback and with only ghost moves, he'd be a sitting Psyduck. Plus, remember how I told ya that I want to start fresh."
"Yeah," she smiled.
"Using a team of Phanpy, Granbull and Pikachu wouldn't exactly be doing that," he replied, "so that's why I've decided to put a hold on the Petalburg gym until I've caught more Pokémon and properly trained them up."
"Sounds like a smart decision," Max commented, "you might've made it to the finals in the Silver conference, Ash, but my dad is a billion times tougher than even a league winner. He's so tough that he's the favourite to be the next champion of Hoenn. Once Steven is man enough to face him, that is."
"Hehehe, you might be getting a little of yourself there, son," Norman chuckled, turning to face Ash with a not-so-subtle wink towards him, "but Ash's decision shows he is a smart and sensible trainer. Many would just rush head in without thinking twice. Your quite the remarkable young man."
"Thanks, that means a lot coming from you," he smiled.
It didn't take them long to make it to the gym. It was a marble white, rectangle building with a slanted roof. She always did like the design of the place, a far cry from that more traditional, old styled building that belonged to the gym leader. After her farther unlocked the building, they stepped inside, and she took in a deep breath.
She loved that new building smell, even if he's been built for over a year now. He hardly ever let her and Max visit because he didn't want them putting his challengers off, so they only really stepped inside whenever visiting him at finishing time. While the walls were pretty plain, a long corridor was all that could be seen with a series of doors on either side. Each with a plack in the centre, labelling what laid inside. Following her dad, they soon found themselves stood in front of a door labled as 'Battlefield One'.
"Unfortunately, Ash, my gym apprentice Kenny isn't here at the moment," Norman apologised, "you see, he officiates all gym battles here at the Petalburg gym but because we don't officially open to challengers until ten this morning, he is due to arrive at half nine."
"That's alright, Norman," Ash smiled.
"I'd be happy to judge the battle," Serena commented, "I might not be officially trained but I've watch Brock do it lots and should know when to make a call."
"Whose Brock?" May asked.
"Brock is a really good friend of ours and he was travelling with us for a while," Ash explained, "he was also the gym leader at Pewter City, but he wanted to become a breeder instead. We have plans to meet up with him, actually, when he gets to Hoenn."
"It's always nice to have an extra friend to watch your back," Norman smiled, "and thank you for the offer, Serena-"
"But that's not fair, dad! She's Ash's girlfriend!" Max cried out, "she could call the battle in his favour at any point!"
"Calm down, Max, I'm sure were all mature enough to have a friendly battle without an official referee," he relaxed, "but thank you regardless, Serena.
"It's alright," she smiled. As they moved over to the benches to the side of the field. It wasn't anything special, just a plain wooden floor with white markings.
"Hey dad, I have a question," she found herself asking. As both Ash and her dad made their way
"What is it May?" he asked.
"How come the door said battlefield one?" she asked, "that indicates you have more than one."
"It does and it's because the Petalburg gym has three battle fields," he smiled. Swellow soaring off his shoulder to circling around the top of the ceiling, as Ash let his Granbull run out onto his side of the field, "we also have two training rooms which could work as a substitute if needed."
"But you can only possibly have one battle at a time," she replied.
"True but sometimes multiple challengers can show up at a single time," he explained, "and some battles can really destroy a field, so having multiple means we can take back to back challengers without worry."
Nodding in understanding, she turned her attention towards the two Pokémon. Both of the trainer's also focused their attention on the field as the tension thickened to a sickly level. May couldn't help but look at Granbull, who dropped onto all four and growled threateningly.
"You have the first move, Ash," Norman gesture with a swipe of the hand.
Ash verses Norman
He tightened his fist as he watched the normal flying type float around, well out of his fairy types reach. With no long-ranged attacks to speak off, any attack would fall flat on his face. Not to mention, that Swellow looks plenty capable, even if her Intimidate has weakened his attack power... that's it!
"Okay Granbull, while we wait for him to come down, we can even the playing field some!" he explained, "use a combination of Scary Face and Charm!"
His fairy type let out a rough growl, as she glared up at their opponent. Energy could be seen radiating off her and pink hearts flew upwards.
Striking the normal flying type, some bright lights surrounded him. He let out a loud battle cry, wings glowing white as he made a dive.
Pushing herself up, a pink energy radiated around her. She smashed her hands into Swellow's wings and pinned him to ground. Quickly switching to a series of punches, each filled with fairy type energy.
Swellow cried out and his talons extended out, whacking her legs, and causing her to stumble. With his beak glowing white and pecking Granbull's chest.
While his opponent stumbled back, releasing the grip she held him in. Norman's normal flying type rolled over and made a b-line escape.
"After him!" Ash shouted.
Granbull slammed back down on the field, charging after the male bird. Her fangs hung out of her mouth, being coated in ice as she closed in.
The Swallow Pokémon made a quick turn, just as he was about to smash into the wall. Shooting up against the wall, Granbull made a complete face-plant.
His eyes widened as she wobbled backwards, turning his attention upwards. Their opponent was once again soaring close to the ceiling as a blue outline surrounded him. Increasing his speed, he disappeared from sight.
"Look out Granbull!" he cried out, "their planning something!"
She shook her head, stood on her hind legs. Turning backwards, she seemed over the daze from her impact with the wall.
Looking up, he saw the normal flying type come to a stop and in one swift motion, slap his wings together. A powerful sonic boom wave flew down. It struck the ground where his fairy type stood and sent her flying backwards.
"Boomburst is a powerful move, Ash," Norman explained, "most Pokémon use it by firing off soundwaves and while Swellow does that too, he doesn't create the sound with his lungs. It's a way that he weaponizes his speed indirectly."
Granbull landed flat on her stomach and growled angrily. Pushing herself up, the sight of Swellow diving in with glowing wings reappeared.
She took off from her position, a power barrier forming around her. Making a big leap, she went headfirst towards her opponent.
Swellow made an upturn, avoiding the powerful headbutt as his fairy type landed on all four. He came to a stop and slammed his wing attack on her back.
His fairy Pokémon slumped on the floor. Her expression showed clear annoyance and irritation. Ash knew that while she found a close-up brawling battle to be fun, the fact she's unable to return the beat down is clearly getting to her.
The normal flying type landed on the floor. A confident smirk spread across his beak, as he waved a wing as a gesture for Granbull to come and get him.
Growling in anger, she shot of from her position. Charging across the field, more fairy type energy radiated off her as you felt each thud on the ground.
A second before she crashed into the swallow Pokémon, several copies formed all over the floor. She stood up and looked at the multiple birds.
"Careful Granbull, he's used double team!" Ash called out, carefully scanning each copy, "it's the one in the far-right corner!"
She smirked and her fangs extended outwards once more. Ice coated them as she took off across the field. He inwardly smirked as none made a movement as Granbull continued forward, dead set on the one he specified.
"To your right now!" he yelled.
Landing on the ground, she spun on her heels and tackled the closest copy. Tackling the normal flying type across the field, with each copy disappearing.
"Impressive Ash, how did you know which was the real one?" Norman asked.
"It was the shadows on the floor," he replied, "you see, my Pikachu also knows double team, so I know what gives him away. Only one had a shadow but if I verbalised that then Swellow would've figured it out as well."
Norman's normal flying type smashed against the wall. His fairy Pokémon tackled after her and smashed him into the wall further.
Grabbing his with one hand as more fairy type energy radiated off her. She delivered a direct gut punch into his stomach and followed up with a second punch.
With the swallow Pokémon slumping down, she slammed her foot down. Swellow cried out in pain as she continued her play rough attack.
"Okay Swellow, enough playing around," Norman instructed, "you should've estimated her strength so let's finish this
He placed both wings in front of his face as a fist came, a shimmer of metal coated them. Granbull's fist bounced off and she stumbled backwards.
Pushing himself off the ground, he danced forward and spun, delivering a second steel wing. Continuing forward, he knocked Ash's pure fairy type backwards as he continued the skilful dance of metal coated wings, delivering some serious hits onto her.
"Drop and headbutt!" Ash shouted.
With one of the wings swooping straight for her head, she dropped down onto all fours. Charging forward, she knocked her opponent off balance.
Peaking over her shoulder, Swellow's beak glew and extended outward. He thrusted it forward into her eye. She momentarily stopped but that's all he needed.
Climbing up from her embrace, he slammed his wings down on her head to disorientate her. Shooting away from her, Granbull stumbled backwards as a paw raised up to cover her eye.
Swellow made a complete loop and ended up diving down on her. He made a direct hit on to her head. She cried out in pain as she laid flat on her back.
He landed on her chest, raising both wings overhead. Each wing shimmered in metal as he brought them straight down on her.
His fairy type fully collapsed onto the floor. Swirls replacing her eyes as Swellow took off, landing straight back on Norman's shoulder. He took off from the trainers box, kneeling next to her with a Pokéball in hand.
"Thanks for that, Granbull, and we'll be sure to make up for those short comings," he smiled, recalling her to the device, "you deserve a nice long rest."
"It looks like your Granbull is unable to battle, Ash," he smiled, stepping forward. Holding a hand to him. Ash quickly clipped the device back to his belt and accepted the gesture, being pulled up to his feet, "thank you for a great battle. Swellow's not been challenged like that in a long time."
"He was really tough," Ash smiled, "it was sort of like my Pidgeot, but she couldn't never fly like that in such a small room. Even if she got annoyed at times, I can tell Granbull loved the battle as well."
"You did great yourself, Ash," he smiled, "even if Granbull's style is pretty one note, you really showed your experience. The way you quickly discovered the real Swellow during double team and even tricked us into thinking otherwise. It was really something else."
"Hehehe, it's just because I've seen my own Pokémon use it," he replied, "but I think I should be getting Granbull to the Pokémon centre."
"Don't be silly, you can use the healing room in the gym," he offered, "its state of the art and should have your Granbull back to full health in a jiffy. Besides, I know you plan on setting off later today, so I'd appreciate as much time with my little girl before that happens."
"Alright then, you've got yourself a deal!" he smiled.
A few hours later and May found herself stood outside of the gym with both of her new travelling companions. Her parents and brother were stood opposite, and with a challenger waiting for her father, they decided now would be a good time to head on out. Ash already had his Granbull healed up, after all.
"So, you know where you're going to go next?" her mother asked.
"Yeah, Rustbow city is the closest gym to here and since we need to travel through Petalburg forest, there will be plenty of opportunities to capture a bunch more Pokémon," Ash explained.
"Not to mention it also holds a performance hall so I could compete in my first Pokémon showcase," Serena added, "we was hoping to wait and meet Brock, but he sent a message saying his boat out of Lilycove was delayed because of a tropical storm. And because of that, he also can't get a signal now."
"Well don't worry, if he shows up at the gym then I'll be sure to send him after you," her dad smiled, "but before you go, May, I do have something to offer."
"Huh?" she questioned, "what is it, dad?"
"This little one hatched from an egg between my Slaking and Delcatty," he smiled, "after speaking it over with both of them, they were happy to let him join your team. Provided you say yes, of course."
Accepting the Pokéball, she hesitantly held it out and pressed the middle button. The device burst open and in a flash of light, a brown, quadrupedal Pokémon, laid flat out on its stomach, appeared on the ground, eyes closed with light snoozing. It had coarse, shaggy fur with two dark brown stripes on its back. There was a scruff of fur on top of its head, and it had a large, pig-like pink nose and same coloured eyelids. A giant sleeping bubble out of his nose. It had long, lanky arms, but shorter legs stretched out over the ground. Each paw had two-sharp claws, and there are pink paw pads on the back feet.
"Cool! What Pokémon is it?" Ash asked as he pulled out the Pokedex:
Slakoth, The Slacker Pokémon. Slakoth's heart beats just once a minute. Whatever happens, it is content to loaf around motionless. It is rare to see this Pokémon in motion. They can even end up being washed away down lakes due to falling asleep
"Erm, thanks dad but no thanks," she muttered, handing him the device back, "while I appreciate the thought, I would rather find and catch my team myself."
Not to mention that Slakoth isn't exactly her sort of Pokémon. All it ever does is laze around on its stomach, and sleep. It's not even like it'll evolve into a really beautiful Pokémon, like her Wurmple will. Every time she's seen her dad's Slaking, it's been lying on its side and either asleep or scoffing his face. She'll never know why he considers it his strongest Pokémon when all it seems to do is sleep and eat. If it turned out to be baby Delcatty then maybe she would've considered it because honestly, that is one Pokémon he has which actually looks quite nice and she could see herself catching at some point, like Beautifly.
"I can respect that, dear, and I'm sure both Slaking and Delcatty will as well," he smiled, accepted the device back. He quickly recalled the sleeping normal type. He put the device back into his back pocket, "good luck dear and remember to call home."
"Right," she nodded in agreement, "Professor Birch said something about my team being sent here when I can't carry any more."
"Of course, my green house is built to house pretty much any Pokémon," he explained, "but I meant just call home in general. We'll miss you, May."
"I'll miss you guys too," she stepped forward and engulfed both of her parents in a hug. Which they both returned. While she never felt particularly close to either of them, due to having different views on Pokémon. She truly meant it when she said she'd miss them.
"Since you don't know anything about Pokémon, I should go to!" Max declared, drawing all three's attention. He was already stood by Ash and Serena.
"You do know a lot about Pokémon, son," her dad kneeled down to be at an eye level, "but I don't think travelling with them is a great idea."
"What!" he cried out, "but why?!"
"Your still a child, Max, and taking care of a child is very different to taking care of Pokémon," he explained, "while I'm sure both Ash and Serena are very competent trainers, it wouldn't be fair to ask them to take on such a big responsibility."
"B-but they'll be taking care of May!" he cried out, tears running down his cheek, "it's not fair!"
"I can take care of myself, thank you very much!" May shouted, placing her hands on her hips.
"Since when?" he asked back, a snark in his voice which just fuelled her anger, "was it the time you got mistaken as a Tentacool or when that Pidove-"
"Shut it, Max!" May cried out, "you wasn't even born then! How do you know about that?"
"Because like I said, I know my stuff," he smirked back, "which is why I should be going too!"
"I'm sorry dear but our answer is final," her mother stepped forward, "if that friend of theirs, Brock I believe his name was, was here then maybe it would be different."
"Brock does have a lot of experience looking after kids," Ash commented, "he took care of all his siblings for a good few years without any help."
"We know, we did our research our you," Norman smiled, "not to cause offense but if you're going to be travelling with my little girl, I need to know who you are and I couldn't just rely on you to tell me everything."
"That's okay, we understand," Serena nodded in understanding, "and while Brock will be joining us soon, we don't know how long it'll be. His last message was this morning and while he arrived in Lilycove, his boat had been cancelled due to a storm at sea. If it hadn't, he'd be meeting us right around now."
"Well now that's settled, we should get going!" she cheered, marching towards her two travelling companions.
She knew all-to-well how manipulative her little brother could be when he wants to get his way. Grabbing both of their hands, they began walking away. The sobs of her little brother filled the airways, but she couldn't even bring herself to look back. It was easy to guess her dad was stopping him from just running after them. With her friends following behind, she let go of their hands and doubled her efforts. The sooner they get away, the better.
Brock looked up from his map to see the suburban house in front of him. Luckily, he was able to get a boat through the night and they docked earlier this morning. He already knew his friends were well on their way from here but maybe if he could find the gym leader then he could get an idea of how far behind he is. Having already sent a message to Serena, they are probably deep into their morning routine to reply at this precise minute.
Stepping up to the door of the house, he knocked twice before stepping backwards. He could hear a light rustling from the other side before a shadowy figure appeared through the frosted-glass windows. With the handle moving downwards, it opened to reveal a man in his thirties, maybe, with dark blue hair.
"Hello sir," he greeted with a warm smile, "are you Norman Maple? The Petalburg gym leader?"
"That I am," he smiled, "but if you've come to challenge me for a badge. I'll need to ask you to wait at the gym, we officially open to challengers at-"
"Oh no, I'm not a challenger, sir," he shook his head, "my name is Brock Harrison and I believe my friends were recently staying here. Ash Ketchum and Serena Yvonne."
"Ah, so you're the previous Pewter gym leader," he smiled, "would you like to enter? My wife and I have something we'd like to discuss with you."
"Oh erm, alright," he stuttered slightly, stepping into the house. He felt something by his leg and looking down, he saw a Linoone, he thought it was called sniffing him. Smiling down at him, he kneeled down to scratch the top of his head, "hey buddy, how are you today?"
"Lin Linoone!" he cheered happily.
"Linoone here is meant to be one of my lower badge Pokémon but he much prefers spending his days at home," Norman explained, "he is a pretty good judge of character though and he seems to like you."
"Well I'm glad to have his approval," Brock chuckled, looking up at the house ahead. Main spacious rooms could be seen, all connected together. A crisp clean fragrance filled the air as he scanned the room. Everything seemed in perfect condition, it almost made him miss cleaning up after his brothers and sisters back before meeting Ash and Serena. The feeling of completion when done, nothing beat it.
Although he quickly spotted something out of place. A young boy, probably eight was sat as a table. A stack of pancakes in front of him but pushed forward, slumped over the wooden table, his arms covered his face. A women, probably Norman's wife, stood behind him.
"Caroline, could you come here for a second dear!" Norman called out, to which the women turned towards them.
"Coming," she echoed back. Walking over towards them, as Brock stood up once more.
"Honey, this young man is Brock," Norman explained, as she held a handout, "Brock, this is my wife."
"Call me, Caroline," she smiled, as he returned the gesture, turning back to her husband, "so have you asked him?"
"Not yet, I was waiting for you," he replied.
"Ask me what?" Brock questioned, glancing between the two adults.
"First off, you should know Brock we weren't expecting to meet you here and now," Norman clarified, "we actually thought that we'd meet you when Ash comes back to challenge me for a badge."
"He didn't challenge you yesterday?" Brock asked, "that's unlike him."
"He did, actually," Norman smiled, "I asked him to postpone it, so he'd have a reason to return. And with my daughter May travelling with them-"
"Ah, that makes sense," he nodded in understanding, "so you wanted to ask me something?"
"Of course, but first you mustn't tell anyone what I'm about to tell you," Norman stressed. He responded with a simple nod, "not even our kids are aware of this, yet but I am applying for a promotion. Still a position in the league but better hours and pay."
"Seeing as you're a gym leader, I could make a pretty good guess on what sort of promotion you're going for," Brock smiled.
"And I'd put money on you being right," Norman nodded, "but obviously I need to focus and be on my top game for the foreseeable months as I apply, along with others."
"So, what is it you wish to ask me?" he asked.
"When they left, yesterday, our son Max was very upset about not being able to join them in travels," Caroline explained, "we felt your friends, Ash and Serena were unprepared for a child his age. May was different, they're close enough to the same age and each have Pokémon. But since they left, he's been silent and moping. He's refused to eat or do anything."
"Both Ash and Serena were very vocal about your achievements as a pseudo parent and in doing our own research, we'd have to agree," Norman took over the conversation, "so what we'd like to ask you is. Would you be willing to take care of Max, and give him a chance to travel with you?"
"I... don't know," Brock admitted, "it would be an honour for sure, but would he even want to travel with me?"
"Well you could come and meet him," Caroline suggested, "you see, even if we don't tell him about the position Norman is going for, he is a very smart kid and would likely connect the dots on his own. Even if not meaning to, it could slip out and-"
"The league aren't too thrilled at their inner works being revealed before their own announcement," Brock nodded in understanding, "tell you what, why don't you introduce me to him, and we can have talk. We won't mention the travels, yet, because of forcing an answer from him but after a couple hours, we might have a better idea from the both of us."
"I like the way you think," Norman smiled, reaching towards his belt, and taking a Pokéball off, "and if you wouldn't mind, this little guy needs a home. He hatched from an egg a couple of my Pokémon produced and I did offer him to May, but she wanted to catch her team, herself."
"Thank you, but-"
"Please Brock, you'd be doing us a favour. This has no bearing on the outcome with Max either," he shook his head, placing the device squarely in his hand.
He took a moment to look at it and briefly considered letting it out. Deciding against it, he followed the Petalburg gym leader into the kitchen. They could do all of the official business transferring that Pokémon over to him later.
Right now, he has someone else to meet.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...