Author's Note:
Here it is, the last chapter of new captures whilst on Dewford. I'll say up front, there is a new pairing shown in this chapter but don't worry, the particular Pokémon involved is already on an arc of their own and this is just the next step for them. There arc hasn't just been tossed aside. We get to meet a total of three new Pokémon this chapter and while not idea, it was the only way I could find to introduce them all since individual chapters likely wouldn't be as long or interesting. Oh, and we meet the champion of Hoenn, that's cool. Just because Donphan evolved, don't think his little Dewford arc is over either. We also have another at the ranch scene and... it's possibly my favourite so far, just for utter chaos. Also, several people reviewed showing displeasure in the idea that Brock got Mudkip like in the anime, but I really don't know why it seems to be such a big issue for some. I always like Brock's Mudkip. Don't forget to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin!
Chapter sixteen: Steven Stone & Granite Cave
Pikachu stretched out as he walked on the floor, slightly behind Ash. He was leading the way toward Granite cave, over the grassy ground and was chatting with Max about some of the past battles. Currently they were going over the orange archipelago and the different battles that they had there.
While he likes to remember past victories as much as the next mon, he didn't want to partake right now. Turning towards the back, he found Serena and May talking with Sakura about contests. Or to be more accurate, the two budding coordinators were bombarding Serena with questions. Even if the former has realised that she is more than an experienced coordinator and actually a top coordinator. While shortly behind was Brock and Mudkip.
From what he's seen of her, Mudkip is a friendly one. Not much for training but she is certainly lively and enthusiastic to learn.
"We're here!" Ash called out. Looking ahead he saw a large mountain in front of them with the ocean surrounding the rocky sides. While not as tall as some of the mountains they've seen, just the way it lowered into the water indicated it went much deeper than before, "what are we waiting for!"
"Let's go and find some new Pokémon!" Max added, with the two of them leading the way.
Stepping into the cave, it was a damp-rocky place with small glimpses of light from above. Cracks in the ceiling allowed sun light to peak through. They continued through the cave without much of not happening until cracks formed in the ground. He barely had chance to run ahead before a massive whole formed behind, taking Serena, Brock, Sakura, and May into its depths.
"Hey, erm, guys," he tried to call out but neither of boys turned back. Sighing, he looked down the hole to see that they all appeared alright... even if not in the same corridors. Knowing that they could defend themselves for the time being, he ran ahead to the boys, not wanting to lose them too.
As he caught up with them, they stepped into what seemed to be a separate room. A large painting of some kind was spread out across the far wall but more interesting was a human, probably late twenties early thirties, with sleek silver hair and dressed in mountain climbing gear. He turned and seemed surprised for a brief moment before a small landed on his face.
"Hello there, I'm Steven Stone-" he greeted "and-"
"You're the heir to the Devon Corporation!" Max shouted, cutting him off, "and champion of all of Hoenn!"
"Correct... and I know you, don't I son?" he asked, "I never forget a face."
"Right," he nodded, "you saw me at my dad's gym when you've visited before!... but we never got to speak."
"My apologises, usually when visiting gyms, it's official business and we don't have time to waste," he bowed his head, "but your both in luck, as this place is an ancient mural of the history of the Hoenn region. I was just re-visiting it for research. Not many people get to see it."
Pikachu tilted his head to the side and took in the image painted against the cave wall. It showed some sort of fierce battle between a giant land Pokémon and some sort of sea water type. With a sky serpent appearing from above in a bright light.
"You see, these images tell the story of how the world was shaped. Kyogre, king of the sea filled out planet with water and formed several large land masses which became the regions of this world," he explained, "with Hoenn being the final resting place for both of them."
"But it looks like they're fighting in the painting," Ash pointed out.
"That came after the creation of this world. People and Pokémon inhabited the lands created and word of these powerful Pokémon spread," he explained, "this lead to humans attempting to capture them... however, a miscalculation was made. You see, the power needed for their original work needed to go dormant and were stored inside two ancient artifacts."
"The red and blue orbs!" Max burst out, "I remember studying the legends of Hoenn shortly after moving here!"
"Correct, and more interesting is the fact that when studied, these artefacts hold the same energy signatures to those found in mega evolution," Steven smiled.
"Mega evolution?" Ash asked, "how do you-"
"Know about it?" Steven finished, "I'm the champion remember. Part of my duty is finding capable trainers to wield such abilities and after Ethen's little show back at the Goldenrod tower siege with his Tyranitar, I'm afraid it's no longer as secret as many of us would've liked."
"So, what can you tell us about mega evolution?" Ash asked, "I remember Clair used a Mega Ampharos when I challenged her at the Blackthorn gym."
"Unfortunately, while I am capable of performing mega evolution. I barely know more than other wielder's. A professor from Kalos has been helping us understand it's secrets, however," Steven explained, "but back to this mural. When they unleashed the power within the orbs, both Kyogre and Groudon lost control and a massive battle broke out between them. It only stopped when Rayquaza, guardian of the sky, appeared to settle their feud."
"So why are you re-studying it?" Max asked, "if you already know the story like you do?"
"Because it's my fear that the two gangs running around Hoenn at the moment, Team Aqua and Team Magma, are trying to once again harness these powers to fulfil their own goals," he explained, "and reshape the world in their own image."
"What makes you think that?!" Ash cried.
"Team Aqua have been very vocal about their goals to clean the ocean and help restore the natural beauty," the champion explained, "at first it seemed like a noble goal but their actions as of late show a desperation. With their ties to the water, Kyogre could be some sort of endgame for them."
"Actions like attacking your dad's headquarters?" Max asked.
"Yes... he did say that a group of kids helped him fight off the thieves before they could get anything," he mused, shaking his head, "but I believe they attacked his headquarters as it hold the location of the red orb. You see, my father has been intrusted to study the artifact."
"But if Team Aqua wants to control Kyogre, surely they should go after the blue orb instead," Max replied.
"That would be their end goal, but the blue orb is in the hands of another scientist, Maxie of Camerupt-corp industries," he explained, "there location is less known, so I believe they'd have used the red orb to lead them to the blue orb. After all, two similar signatures can be used to track each other."
"Right!" Max cheered.
"If you say so," Ash shrugged.
"What about the other team you mentioned?" Max asked, "Team Magma. What if they are trying to get one of the orbs as well."
"They very well might be, but they are much more subtle and harder to track," Steven sighed, "while we've identified several higher up members of Team Aqua, the same can't be said for their counterpart. Although those members that we have caught have been just as vocal about the good they're doing."
"Hearing stuff like that just gets my blood boiling," Ash replied, "they're just like Team Rocket. No good can from them."
"The road to the distortion world is littered with good intentions," Steven sighed, "no matter what their end goals are, they're going about it in completely the wrong way."
"What do you think about it, May?" Max asked, turning around.
"Finally. You noticed," Pikachu stood up, sarcastically.
"What's that Pikachu?" Ash asked, also turning around, "and where did everyone go?"
"We lost them during the cave. The walls and floor aren't exactly built for holding a lot of weight," he explained, "but you two were so busy gas bagging that you didn't notice. Luckily, I'm sure Brock, Serena and Sakura can look after themselves so nothing to worry about."
"What about May?" Ash asked.
"Servers her right for her favouritism," he shrugged, scampering up his trainers body and perching on his shoulder, "she's like a type specialist but worst because her favouritism is directed at one specified Pokémon and not a whole type."
"Well we should get going to try and find them," Ash clearly ignored his opinion, "you ready to go Max?"
"Yeah," he nodded.
"Well hold on," Steven stepped forward, "I can help you look. After exploring this cave over the years, I know it like the back of my hand. And there are a lot of wild Pokémon so if we're not careful we could have a much bigger issue on our hands. Come on out Aggron!"
In a flash of light, a huge, bipedal Pokémon slammed onto the ground. It was primarily grey with plates of silver armor. The armor on its head had two pairs of holes with horns protruding from the foremost holes. Its forehead plating extended past it's upper jaw in a small point. It had sky-blue eyes, and two nostril-like holes on the tip of its upper jaw. On the rim of its mouth were several pointed, fang-like protrusions and the nape of its neck and back had grey-silver armor sections. It had wide, blunt spikes on its shoulders and grey-silver bands on its arms and legs. It's hands and feet each had three claws. It had a thick, long, black tail that swung side to side.
"So, I mentioned the weak floor and his plan is send out a nine-hundred-pound metal monster?" Pikachu asked. Clapping his paws together in a slow and sarcastic manner, "ten out of ten for intelligence. I can certainly see why he's the champion."
"Teeheehee, funny cheeks," the large Aggron chuckled.
"Stop it, Pikachu," Ash whispered harshly.
"Aggron here use to be the head of the Aron nest of this cave," he explained, "he'll have no trouble in navigating our way through to find your friends and due to the respect, his presence commands among his pre-evolved forms, we shouldn't be bothered by the local Pokémon."
Nodding in agreement, they set off through the cave. With Aggron leading the pack, on the lookout for their friends.
Brock grunted in pain as he landed on his stomach. He peaked forward to see Mudkip lying on the ground in front of him. He went to reach forward and comfort the pure water type but something big hit his back, causing him to cry out in pain!
"I'm sorry," a meek voice came out, as the weight shifted off his back. He glanced up to see Sakura stood over him, offering a hand down to him.
"It's alright," he smiled. Shaking himself off, as he moved into a sitting position. Reaching forward, he picked up the water type and held her close to his chest, running his hand over her head fin and down her body. It took a little while, but she soon started to settle down. Accepting the kimono sister's hand, he helped him back to his feet as one hand supported his newest team member, "thanks Sakura."
"What should we do now?" she asked, looking up. Following her eyeline, he found a large hole above them, as the only source of light.
"The only thing we can do is move forward and hope to find a way to the surface. Come on out guys," he called, releasing his team of Crobat and Dugtrio. Mudkip still perched upon his shoulder. Both of the new arrivals appeared in front of him, looking up expectantly, "we fell through the cave floor. Can you two help me navigate our way back out? Hopefully, we'll either find the others on our trek or they'll be able to make their own way out."
"Dug Dugtrio!" his ground type smiled.
"Crobat," the poison flying type added.
A smile formed on his lips as he watched them lead the way down the corridor. Even if not use to this specific cave or it's layout, both have adapted to live within caves and have several ways to navigate their way through. For Crobat, echo location from his supersonic allows him to build up a mental image of the layout and what lies ahead. While Dugtrio does something similar with seismic tremors through the ground for the affect.
"Thanks for this, Brock," Sakura thanked him, "I love Espeon, Marill and Beautifly but none are exactly skilled at navigating caves."
"Don't mention it, we've got to stick together," he smiled. He turned his attention towards the pure water type, "and how are you doing?"
"Mud Mudkip," she replied, to which he smiled.
"That's good but for the time being you should stay up here," he explained, "we don't know what Pokémon are lurking. Wouldn't want to get separated, right."
"Kip, Mudkip," she smiled.
"You're really great with her," Sakura commented, "I mean. It's only been a few days and she shows you a lot of trust. I wish Marill was that easy to get on with when Espeon and I first caught her."
"Every Pokémon is different, Sakura, I mean didn't get on with every one of my Pokémon to start with," he shrugged, "you've just got to learn to listen to them and with time they'll each come around. And because each Pokémon is different, you can't judge each on the same standards, just look at Ash."
"What do you mean?" she asked.
"Well he's an experienced trainer whose shown respect from both a Dragonite and Aerodactyl. Most never even get to see one of them," he explained, "but that doesn't mean he's had an easy time with Corphish. Because his a mischievous trouble maker. Like I said, everyone is-"
"Trio Dug, Dug, Dugtrio!" his ground type cried out. With Crobat adding in his own two cents.
"Do you think they're a threat?" he asked, with the poison flying type shaking his head in a negative, "alright, well we can go and help but stay alert. Maybe it was another Pokémon that did it and it could come back. Okay."
"What was that about?" Sakura asked as they set off down the corridor, at a much faster pace.
Instead of answering her, he looked ahead until they came into a large open room. It was hallow and illuminated by the sun, through a hole in the room. A large rock stood at the centre with holes covering it. He quickly guessed it was a nest of some kind. Beside it was a small Pokémon. A quadrupedal one with four stubby legs and a large round head. It's body was covered in plates of grey armor covering both the head, back, and legs. Throughout its armor were small openings revealing a black body. The head had six openings, with the largest two for pale blue eyes. A single, blunt spike protruded from its back. Along with one opening on either side of the spike on it's back. Lying on it's side it was clearly injured by some sort of battle.
"It's an Aron," Sakura mused, "but it looks pretty beat up."
Nodding in understanding, he rushed over and skidded down onto his knees. Mudkip leaped down beside the small Pokémon, as he slide his backpack off, swinging it around to his side. He carefully overlooked him, and he was showing all the haul marks of a tough battle. Luckily, nothing to serious.
"Don't worry little fella, we'll have you healed up in no-time," he smiled, reaching into his backpack, and pulling out a super potion, "I know you can hear me, even if you're not awake. This might sting, I'm... not entirely sure with how your body is designed, being completely honest with you. But it will help you regain energy and feel better."
"Trio, Dugtrio," his ground type cried out.
"Erm, Brock..." Sakura added, backing up beside him. He quickly scooped the small Pokémon up and stood, twirling on a heel to see what had them both worked up. Emerging from the nest was a much larger Pokémon, which held some resemblance to Aron.
It had stocky armor with four short legs, although it was easily triple the size of Aron. It's underbody was dark grey metal plating, with a lighter coat, close to Aron's plating on top. It's eyes were more of a sky-blue colour, again visible through holes in the head armor. It's back armor split into segments, each with a high ridge and round dark holes on the sides. The sides of it's lower jaw had several flat protrusions, and two teeth were visible when it opened it's mouth. It had two-pronged metal bands on it's legs. The upper band was grey while the lower was silver.
"Lairon!" It roared, stepping down from the next. A number of Aron leaving and surrounding him.
"Mud Mudkip," his water type explained, jumping onto his shoulder.
"So, this one was the leader then a new one evolved first, taking on role of alpha," he mused. Stepping forward, he put on a stoic expression with both of his experienced Pokémon taking a stance in front of him, "I know this is your nest. All I ask is you hear me out."
"Ron," the leader nodded.
"Okay, from my understanding, this one wouldn't step down as alpha. As per pack rule, you beat him in battle to establish dominance and he's been exiled because of his loss," he explained, to which the evolved Pokémon nodded, "I also know that the walls in this cave are weak. I assume it's because some of the local Pokémon feed off them. My guess would be your own species."
"Lairon," he nodded again.
"I understand that we're out numbered and you'd likely going to beat us in a battle," he added, "but this is your home. My Dugtrio knows earthquake and combined with the weak infrastructure, could bring down this entire place. Your home. None of us want that."
"Ron, Lairon," he replied.
"Let me take this one, we ended up here by accident," he explained, "I can give Aron the medical attention he needs and help fulfil his exile. No battle, no trouble for either of us. Just let us go and we'll leave you in peace."
He paused for several moments, not flinching as his eyes locked with the leader. He couldn't even release he breath as he waited for the answer. Closing his eyes, the evolved Pokémon gave a small nod. He released his breath and relaxed, giving a quick nod of the head.
"Thank you," he sighed, looking around to everyone, "come on guys, let's get out of here."
Turning on his heel, they took off down a corridor with Crobat leading the way. Dugtrio hung back, clearly acting as watch out in the Aron decided to give chase anyway. After a few minutes, he came to a stop and sat down, spraying the potion onto the little one in his hands.
"Hey there," he smiled, as Aron groggily came around, "my names Brock and... sorry I couldn't off asked for your permission to offer what I did but we had to get you away from there. Once your healed, though, you can go off on your own."
"What would've happened if you didn't do that?" Sakura asked.
"He would've been stuck there, unable to move. At some point he would've regained consciousness but..." he paused, "but he'd be in no position to walk off on his own or start fresh. Had the leader taken it as more defiance then he could've battled again but took it much further."
"Oh no," she uttered, biting her lower lip.
"Ron, Aron," the little one growled, jumping down on the ground. Stumbling slightly on his shaky legs, he took a few steps before turning towards them and barking another order.
"I think it wants us to follow it," Sakura inferred.
Nodding in agreement, they followed the small Pokémon down the cave. Brock couldn't help but notice how he was conversing with his Dugtrio as they lead the way down the corridor. They weren't close enough for him to properly listen to. Soon they came to a stop but before he could voice any sort of question, the patter of footsteps echoed from further along. Soon the source became clear, Ash, Max and another man with silver hair was walking down towards them, with another large Pokémon which also held a striking resemblance to both Aron and the leader from before.
May grunted in pain as she hit the ground. Looking up, she saw a crack of light peaking down. The cold damp cavern was hardly illuminated but it was clear that she was by herself. Standing up and brushing herself to get the dust off, she realised she was in the middle of a corridor and could go either way... only problem was, they were completely opposite to the paths above. If they crossed over then it would make a full intersection.
While she knew that this was a less than ideal situation, standing around and complaining about it wouldn't solve anything. As she looked back and forth between the two options to travel, she attempted to find some indication on a way out. Realising she doesn't need to figure it out on her own, she smiled.
"I need your help, Poochyena," she called out, holding the device out. In a flash of light, her pure dark type appeared in front of her. Tongue wagging out of his mouth as he put his front paws on her knees, attempting to reach up for her. Smiling, she kneeled down and scratched him behind the ear, "I'm happy to see you too, but I really need your help. You see, I got separated from the others in mount granite so could you sniff a way out? There's not a lot to go on."
Nodding with a quick yap, the dark type canine hopped down and began sniffing the ground. He sniffed a few feet down on way before turning and doing the same in the other direction. Waiting patiently, he seemed in consideration before barking and indicating a path to go down. Smiling, May followed behind.
She watched her dark type run ahead, occasionally sniffing the floor as he barked happily. May couldn't help but smile at the sight, he is really a friendly Pokémon, much friendlier than she ever thought they could be. As she lost herself, walking through the dimly lit cave, only source of light being the cracks in the ceiling above, she failed to notice a figure in the path ahead. A bark from her biting Pokémon drew her back into reality.
Ahead was a bipedal Pokémon dancing around the corridor ahead, it had a pale-yellow body and black arms and feet. It's legs had a thick, fur-like covering which seemed to resemble a skirt. The part which stood out the most was a large black appendage, which opened and snapped shut, revealing itself to be a jaw, sticking out the back of its head. It had an oval yellow spot on top of the jaw and contained rows of razor-sharp teeth on both the top and bottom. While that was certainly intimidating, the rest of the Pokémon looked really cute with red eyes and two black ear-like extensions on either side of it's head.
"Whose that Pokémon?" she wondered aloud.
"Ma Mawile," the Pokémon replied, head tilted to the side as they just stared at each other.
"Guess you're a Mawile," May shrugged, "that helps."
Mawile's friendly expression morphed as a smirk over took her face. She entered a battle stance and made a hand gesture as if to say, 'bring it'.
"Alright then, Mawile, if you wanna battle we'll give you a battle," May declared, "tackle it, Poochyena!"
Her dark type canine charged forward and smashing into the steel fairy types chest. She flex and knocked him back, swinging her head piece around.
He went flying backwards and smashed into a wall. Landing on all fours, he shook his fur and growled, crouching low.
Leaping forward, his fangs hung with dark type energy spewing around them. He leaped and bite down on her arm, as she held it in a defensive position.
Mawile's hugh jaw swing around and wrapped around his body. Biting down hard on him, she picked him up and slammed him back down. Sending him back down, he rolled on his side, clearly injured by the attack. Stopping just by her feet.
"Are you alright Poochyena?" she asked.
He pushed himself up, growling in anger. Giving a small hop he disappeared underground and out of sight.
Mawile looked around, as he moved around, clearly trying to avoid being hit. Moments later, Poochyena shot up behind her and smashed into her back.
Her hugh mouth swiped and picked him up, trapping him. Holding him close, her lips glew pink and she placed a kiss on his cheek. Pink balls of energy floating off her dark type canine. As they stopped, she sent him flying once more, as he smashed into the wall.
"Poochyena return," she quickly recalled her dark type. He tried all his offensive moves, but none seemed to work. She quickly switched Pokéballs, "and now you're up, Torchic!"
In a flash of light, her starter landed on the floor in front of her. Scrapping his clawed foot across the ground, he was clearly rearing to go.
Opening his mouth, he sent out a barrage of embers. Mawile attempted to dodge but couldn't due to the restricted cave space. Struck by the fire balls, she cried out in pain.
"Alright Torchic!" May cheered, "that ember sure seemed to do the trick!"
Ending his barrage, Torchic ran forward in the blink of an eye. Emerging right in front of female Pokémon, his beak glew and he quickly began pecking down on her head, clearly aiming for her eyes. It seems that he's picked up a thing or two from Ash's Taillow.
Her body seemed to shimmer as she took a defensive position. The giant jaw swung around and knocked him backwards.
Twisting in the air, he landed on his behind. She slowly approached and her face glew with purple energy, her eyes and mouth expanding in a creepy manner.
"Tor! Tor!" he cried out, fear filling his tearful eyes, "Torchic!"
"Ember! Ember! Ember!" she cried out in a panic.
Torchic took a deep breath and launched out a series of fire balls. They struck Mawile and sent her flying backwards, ending the astonish attack.
He struggled to his feet, ending the ember barrage, panting heavily. May smiled at the downed opponent and enlarged a Pokéball in hand. With a smile on her face, she tossed it. Absorbing Mawile inside. It landed on the ground and shook back and forth.
Crossing her fingers and holding her breath, May prayed that it had been enough. Just imagine her friends reaction when she emerges from this cave, not only safe but with a new Pokémon to her team. She'll no-longer be the rookie with no-idea what she is doing. The device came to a stop... and burst open.
Mawile landed back on the ground, looking revitalised and smashing the device under her foot. Twirling on the spot, she struck a pose and winked.
A series of hearts flew out of her. Floating across the cave-field, it struck Torchic whose eyes dilated and seemed to become tiny hearts.
"What was that move?" she wondered aloud, pulling out her Pokedex:
Attract: A move used to attract other Pokémon using pheromones. It can render the target powerless as they deal with the new crush. It fails if used against a Pokémon that wouldn't be normally attracted to the target.
"Oh great," she muttered, realising her Torchic was practically useless now. She pulled out her Pokéball and recalled him, quickly switching it for the last member of her team, "guess it's all up to you, Silcoon!"
In a flash of light, her pure bug type landed on the floor with a stoic expression. Mawile winked and launched out another attract but it didn't affect Silcoon.
"Now trap her with String Shot then use poison sting!" she cried.
Her cocoon Pokémon gave a small nod and shot out a thick white string. Mawile attempted to dodge but once again the small cave space worked against her.
The string shot wrapped around her and immobilised. A series of purple stingers flew out and struck her but... she hardly seemed affected.
Steel types are immune to poison attacks
"Oh great," she muttered under her breath, "alright then, Silcoon, let's see if you got Electroweb working with Cascoon's help!"
Shooting out another thick string, it landed directly on Mawile. A small bolt travelled up the string and Mawile cried out in pain, but it hardly lasted as long as the attack that Cascoon uses. Clearly not happy with the lack lustier attack, her pure bug type shot forward.
Smashing into the trapped opponent with a tackle, she flew past. Landing behind, she spun around and went back for another tackle from behind.
"And now we'll try again!" May declared, tossing another empty Pokéball.
It struck the trapped wild Pokémon and sucked her inside, with the webbing falling down. The device landed on top of the piles of string and began shaking back and forth. Holding her breath and squeezing her eyes shut, she looked straight down. Crossing her fingers, she silently prayed to whoever would listen and after what felt like an eternity... it dinged.
She looked up to see the device stable on the ground. A wide smile broke out on her face as she ran forward picking it up in a swoop and spinning in place with a series of cheers about the success. Just wait until the others see that she was able to find and capture another Pokémon all by herself.
"Sil Silcoon!" her bug cheered. She scooped her up as well, spinning on the spot. Coming to a stop, she pulled out her Pokedex to scan her new capture:
Mawile, The Deceiver Pokémon. Mawile's huge jaws are actually steel horns that have been transformed. Its docile-looking face serves to lull its foe into letting down its guard. When the foe least expects it, Mawile chomps it with its gaping jaws.
Type: Steel / Fairy
Ability: Hyper Cutter
Hidden Ability: Sheer Force (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Sassy (Note: This is unlikely to change as the Pokémon is fully evolved)
Move(s): Astonish, Growl, Draining Kiss, Bite, Stockpile, Swallow, Sucker Punch, Iron Defence, Attract
Smiling as she put the device away, she attached the Pokéball to her belt. Looking down at the Silcoon in her arms, she smiled happily and set off down the path once more. Luckily, Poochyena could smell fresh air or something before he lost the battle and without any branching paths, this should be easy. With an idea in mind, she reached down to her belt and released her newly caught Pokémon.
"Hi there, Mawile, I didn't get to introduce myself before but my names May and this is Silcoon," she smiled, "it's nice to meet you."
"Ma," she shrugged, as they set off down the path.
"Well we saw you dancing before. Is that something you like to do?" she asked, "we compete in Pokémon contests. Or will do so maybe we could come up with an appeals performance to incorporate your dance moves. Maybe even make it apart of your battle style."
"while," she replied.
"Wow, I'm already talking like Ash and Serena. All battle style and performance ideas," she chuckled to herself, "can you believe it, Silcoon. We're like real trainers! That Slateport ribbon is as good as ours!"
"Coon," her bug type purred.
"And you was great, Silcoon, you was able to beat Mawile when neither Torchic or Poochyena could," she praised, "despite them having super effective moves like ember and dig. I guess Ash was right when he said type match up wasn't everything."
"Mawile," the newly caught steel fairy type replied, looking up. For a moment, May thought she was speaking to her, but she quickly realised her eyes were locked on Silcoon instead.
"Coon, Silcoon," her bug type purred, nuzzling into her.
"Aww, I guess you're making friends already," May cheered, "hey Mawile, you wouldn't happen to know home much longer until we're out of this place, do you?"
"while," she sighed, holding her arms up in a giving up manner. She wasn't sure what sort of time that was meant to be, it's a lot easier understanding the Pokémon with either Serena or Ash around. Humming to herself, she decided to just follow the deceiver Pokémon.
She wasn't sure of a time frame, but she soon heard the sound off footsteps. Looking ahead, she saw Ash, Max, Brock, and Sakura stood in front of her with some guy dressed in mountain climbing gear and slick silver hair. She had to admit, he looked pretty cute even if he's way too old for her. With them were the Pokémon, Pikachu, Mudkip, Crobat, Dugtrio and some little shiny metal thing by Brock's foot. A larger metal thing stood
"Hey guys, guess what I did!" she cheered, running up to them, "I caught a Mawile and I did it all by myself. She beat both Poochyena and Torchic but Silcoon was able to turn it around and now I'm up to four! That ribbon will be ours in no time!"
"I highly doubt that Silcoon beat a Mawile, it's at one of the worst possible type match ups and with your guiding it," he chuckled, "I bet Torchic and Poochyena did the work but again, because you was directing them, they ended up losing. Then you got lucky and decided to give your favourite the credit."
"What would you know about anything, Max," she pouted, crossing her arms in anger, and turning to the side.
"Come on you two," Ash stepped between them, "we can discuss this later but first we need to find Serena."
"Mawile," her new capture replied.
She peaked down just in time to see her new team member launch out a series of attract hearts. They quickly covered the ground and hit the Pokémon in front of them. Pikachu jumped out of the way, but all the others hit their mark. Everyone but Mudkip ran forward with hearts in their eyes. Stopping just in front of her, they seemed to bow down as she soaked up their attention.
"Oh boy, guess Mawile takes after you in at least one way, May," Max sighed.
"And what exactly is that meant to mean?!" she cried out, stamping her foot down in anger.
Serena waved her hands underneath herself, sending out a psychic field. She peaked her eyes opened to see herself and inch from the ground. Sighing in relief, she stood herself up and stood back onto the ground.
Looking up, she saw a small hole with a dim light through it and for a moment she considered trying to use her powers to push herself up through it... but quickly decided against it since the walls and floor seem weak in this cavern and last thing she wants is to fall even further because she doesn't have perfect control over her abilities yet. Using a small ball of ESP in hand to light up the place, she saw a one-way corridor.
"Alright, Hitmontop, I need your help!" she called, swiping the device off her belt, holding it out, a red light materialised her handstand Pokémon.
"What up?" he asked, looking up at her.
"We were exploring a cave and the floor gave up underneath me," she explained, "I'm gonna try to find a way out but I need you in case we get attacked."
"Cool story," he shrugged, "so are we gonna get going?"
It didn't take them long to reach a dead end but before she could consider another plan, Hitmontop began punching the wall with metal fists. His swift bullet punch destroyed the wall, crumbling down into a large hole. As he stopped in place, she gave him an unamused looked.
"We can't just create our own way out," she told him.
"I'm sorry, I missed the map you had of this place," he replied, "at least this way we get a way out. You might've fell but all of us are trapped here, with you."
While not happy with his argument, she couldn't deny he had a point. He lead the way down the new corridor he punched his way into and continued down a path. A thick atmosphere filled their journey down until the sound of grunts echoed from down the corridor. Small thuds followed with heavy panting. She looked down as Hitmontop looked both, both perplexed. Silently agreeing, they continued forward.
Following the grunts, they walked forward and soon found the source. A small humanoid, bipedal Pokémon that was slightly smaller than Hitmontop in terms of height. It was in a battle stance, bouncing back and forth without it's feet leaving the floor. With several grunts for each attack, she punched and kicked the large rock in front of it. It's lower body was blue, with white on the wrists, feet, and lower body. It's head was white and seemed to resemble an onion, which held large eyes and pink oval cheeks. It had round, swirled ears on the sides of it's head.
"Hello," she called out. The Pokémon stopped and looked up at her, a smile morphing into a smirk, "can you help us? We got lost in this cave."
"Hello," a female voice replied, as she relaxed her stance, "it's uncommon for your kind to be able to communicate with psychic abilities. I'm a Meditite."
"I'm Serena and this is Hitmontop," she introduced, "and obviously I'm a psychic. I assume that with what you said, your also a psychic type?"
"I am, I'm also a fighting type," she nodded.
"Hitmon," her own fighting type interjected. She attempted to us her abilities to understand what he said but to no-avail, "hitmontop."
Meditite giggled cutely and through their body language, Serena instantly made a guess at what was happening. Hitmontop seemed to be 'hitting on' her, for lack of a better term... and judging how she was responding, whatever he was saying seemed to be working.
"Hey Hitmontop," she started up a mental link just between the two of them, "is now really the best time for this?"
"Why shouldn't I try and get some?" he asked, sending a shiver down her spine at the implication. First Sylveon and Pikachu and now this, she really didn't like how her Pokémon were growing up so quickly. Shaking her head, she remembered to very important details.
"For starters, we're still stuck in a cave," she replied, "and secondly, you only just met her."
"Fine, we can ask her to show us the way out," he sighed, "but that second point doesn't matter. She's fighting type and she's female so there's nothing wrong with it. You don't have a problem with the prissy eeveelution and her rat she tries to put us of the scent with."
She sighed in defeat and shook her head as Hitmontop went back to speaking in his aloud voice. He is convinced Sylveon, and all fairy types for that matter are homosexual in some way. While she knows it's what his brother drilled into him back before they met, proving otherwise is difficult. If she could give them a piece of her mind for the toxic environment, he was raised in then she most definitely would.
The fighting psychic type turned towards her with a smile on her face, "I'd be happy to show you both how to get out of her."
"Thank you," she replied, with a respectful bow. Meditite began walking away down the corridor with Hitmontop following close by, keeping up his conversation aloud. Sighing, she followed the two humanoid Pokémon down the barely illuminated cavern corridor.
As she followed the two fighting types through the cave, she couldn't help but feel a little awkward by the way the handstand Pokémon was acting towards Meditite. After all, he was clearly hitting on her but at least she didn't seem to be upset by the attention.
Maybe it just felt weird because she was almost certain he was interested in other guys. With his constant denial being her only cues, admittedly. Her mother use to tell her that 'those that shout the loudest and longest about something are usually the one's with the greatest interest in it' but she always used it when she'd complain about having to ride Rhyhorn... and that makes her plan for helping change his view on same sex relationship, so much harder, especially since he has this notion about all fairy types fitting that category.
Sighing in exhaustion, at least all her work to create a bond with him should still help. Living a life of anger is no way to live, but after seeing the struggle that Ash went through with his Sandslash, she knows it could be a lot worst for her.
"So Meditite, why don't you tell us more about yourself?" she asked via her powers, wanting to get back into the conversation.
"My ma was a Medicham and pa was a Hariyama," she shrugged, "but they both had a trainer. The same trainer. Once I was strong enough to be by myself, the trainer let them bring me here as this cave was where they met. I'm not sure how long it's been but honestly, I don't mind."
"Don't you miss them?" she asked.
"I do but I also didn't want to stay there. I don't know if humans are the same, but I wanted to get away and explore as soon as I could," she admitted, "I've already been all over this island so now I just spend my time near the cave. Ya know, if a storm hits or something then this is the best place."
"So, what about other trainers?" she asked, "surely a few have visited this place and tried to catch you."
"A few have but most came looking for a particular Pokémon, like Aron," she explained, "and it seems those that didn't, just weren't tough enough to beat me. After all, a Pokémon is meant to battle before joining a team. I'd defeat one Pokémon, expect another and they'd run of crying."
"They sound like weaklings to me," Hitmontop grumbled, "but guess that means your free to join this group."
"I'd be happy to, I'd love the chance to explore more," Meditite explained, "after we have a battle, of course."
Serena blinked in response as she realised that she got challenged to a battle, and a new team member... practically, at least. It felt a little strange, she never set out to capture Meditite but Hitmontop certainly wants her to and with what Meditite said about exploring, their journey would be perfect for her.
"Alright then, but we should wait until we get outside," she replied, to which the two nodded.
"The exit is just up here," Meditite explained, as a small light appeared off in the distance.
Walking up to it, the fresh sea-air filled their breaths. Increasing the pace, she soon stepped out back into the sunlight. It wasn't the exact entrance they used when first entering but the beach was still beneath their feet. Walking around the side of the mountain, she found the larger entrance in all it's glory. Happy that they were safe, and knowing it wouldn't be long until the others stepped out of the cave, she made up a makeshift battle field on the beach
"Thank you both for your help," she told them with her powers, "but now, I believe you wanted a battle, Meditite?"
"Yes please," she nodded, walking a little bit away before turning and entering a battle stance. She glanced down to Hitmontop, who smirked and walked a little bit away, setting up his own viewing area. Her mental voice appeared once more, "now be warned, this is my first battle in quite a while, so I might not be as experienced as your expecting."
"That's alright, Meditite, just do your best. That's all any of us can do," she reassured, tossing her Pokéball into the air, "so I'll choose, Cascoon!"
In a flash of light, her pure bug type appeared and landed on the sandy field. She had a mostly blank expression as she looked towards her opponent.
Meditite crossed her legs and sat down with her legs cross. A psychic outline surrounded her as she lightly levitated off the ground.
"String shot to bring her back down," Serena instructed.
A thick white piece of string shot out of her bug type's mouth. It landed on the psychic fighting types arm and with a tug, Cascoon pulled her forward.
Two large energy fangs formed on the front of her face and she delivered a powerful bug bite to her target. Causing the meditate Pokémon to cry out.
She quickly delivered a force palm direct to Cascoon's face, knocking her back. Stepping forward, she added in another blow but from below, sending the pure bug type flying. Entering another meditative stance, she glew once more as Cascoon landed back down on the field.
Rolling over onto the right way, her bug type launched out a second-string shot. This time, however, Meditite used a confusion to stop it in place.
Using it as a sling, she threw herself forward. Tackling straight into the psychic fighting type and sending both tumbling along the ground.
"Poison sting!" she called out.
Recovering from the blow first, Cascoon rolled herself over into a firing position. Launching a barrage of purple pins, they struck their target head on.
She clenched her eyes shut and curled over as the poison stings continued to hit her. Her entire body glew white before returning and repeating.
"Cascoon stop and switch to Stingshot!" Serena shouted, "we've got to restrict her best we can!"
Giving a small nod, her bug type nodded, quickly shooting out another thread. As the last of the poison stings hit their mark, the webbing struck her and quickly covered the psychic fighting type. Realising the breath, she was holding, the moment of peace vanished as volts travelled down the string!
"No! She's using bide!" she cried out. She knew Cascoon lightly knew nothing about that attack and was just trying to help but it was too late.
The bright light engulfed Meditite and she struggled to turn against the webbing. Holding her hands together but open, a giant white beam shot out.
Destroying the webbing, it quickly hit Cascoon, who raised attempted to jump out of the way. Serena had to cover her eyes as the blast also sent sand flying.
As it came to an end, her pure bug type landed on a sandy pile. She walked forward to investigate but stopped in her tracks as Cascoon was enveloped in her own bright light. Her form began to change, and she soon took off, flying above the ground with the light fading, revealing her new form.
Her new body reminded Serena of a Venomoth with two pairs of wings. She had a purple, egg-shaped body with a jagged fringe on her rear. His tattered, green wings were wide and flat, forming a disc-shape around her body. She had red markings in the form of rings and streaks, a darker green line around the edges. Dustox had two pairs of red, stubby legs and a pair of yellow, stylized compound eyes. There was a pair of fuzzy, yellow antennae on top of her head, which seemed a little small. Smiling at her newly evolved Pokémon, she pulled out her Pokedex:
Dustox, The Poison Moth Pokémon. A final evolved form of Wurmple. Dustox is instinctively drawn to light. Swarms of this Pokémon are attracted by the bright lights of cities, where they wreak havoc by stripping the leaves off roadside trees for food
Type: Bug / Poison
Ability: Shield Dust
Hidden Ability: Compound Eyes (Note: This hidden ability is currently unlocked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Mild (Note: This is unlikely to change since the Pokémon is fully evolved)
Move(s): Tackle, Poison Sting, Electroweb, Bug Bite, Harden, Iron Defence, Gust, Confusion, Poison Powder, Psybeam
"Alright Dustox, you evolved!" she cheered, "and we're still in this! Are you ready to keep going as well, Meditite!"
"Meditite!" the fighting psychic type cried out, landing back on her feet.
Dustox let out a cry of her own, swooping down and shooting out another string shot. Her opponent jumped out of the way, barely avoiding it.
Meditite entered another meditating stance, levitating with a psychic field. A confusion field shot out, blowing everything back in its path.
Her newly evolved Pokémon swooped down and rattled her antennas back and forth. A multicoloured beam shot out and pierced through the confusion.
The fighting psychic type landed on the ground but jumped up and avoided the Psybeam. Her hand began to glow as she closed in on the bug poison type.
She quickly began flapping her wings and a powerful gust blew down. Unable to move out of the way, the meditate Pokémon was sent flying down and landed flat on her back. A string quickly trapped her in the position with a volt travelling down to stop any escape attempt.
"Go Pokéball!" Serena tossed the empty device across the makeshift field.
The device struck their opponent and sucked her inside. Landing on the webbing, she walked forward as her Hitmontop and newly evolved Dustox both walked closer as the ball shook back and forth. It last for about half a minute before finishing with a ding.
"Alright, great work Dustox," she praised her bug poison type, bending down to pick up the device. She pulled out her Pokedex and scanned the capture:
Meditite, The Meditate Pokémon. Meditite heightens its inner energy through meditation. It survives on just one berry a day. Minimal eating is another aspect of this Pokémon's training. However, whenever it meditates, this Pokémon always loses its concentration and focus. As a result, its training never ends
Type: Fighting / Psychic
Ability: Pure Power
Hidden Ability: Telepathy (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Naive (Note: This could change when/if this Pokémon evolves)
Move(s): Bide, Meditate, Confusion, Detect, Endure, Feint, Force Palm
"Come on out, Meditite," she released her newly caught Pokémon. Sitting down on the sand, she saw her stood, covered in cuts and marks with a heavy panting breathing pattern. Offering a small smile, she slide her back pack off her back and pulled out a super potion, "alright, this will sting but make you feel better."
"Okay," she replied, with a small nod. Offering a sympathetic smile, she sprayed the medicine over her newly caught fighting psychic type. Grimacing at first, she soon relaxed as the battle marks disappeared from sight.
"There," Serena smiled, "all better."
"Hey! Serena!" A familiar voice called out. She turned around to see her friends running towards her, with Ash leading the pack.
"Hey everyone!" she called out, waving them over, "we not long got out and this is Meditite. I just caught her, say hello Meditite."
The small fighting psychic type gave a small wave. Hiding partly behind her leg.
"Dus Dustox!" her bug type added, landing smoothly on her head.
"Hehehe, and how could I forget?" she giggled, "Cascoon evolved into Dustox."
"What?!" May shrieked, "how could your Cascoon evolve before Silcoon?! We caught them near enough at the same time and they evolved from Wurmple at the same time as well! It's not fair!"
"You can't compare your two Pokémon like that, everyone is unique," a mystery man explained, stepping forward. He was dressed in mountain climbing gear with silver sleek hair, "there's not an exact science to raising Pokémon, even those of the same species can change drastically. All we can do as trainers is to help them to the best of our abilities and together take the path forward."
"Oh right, Serena, this is Steven Stone," Ash smiled, "he's the Hoenn champion."
"And son of Devon Stone, president of the Devon corporation!" Max added, "remember, he gave me the Poke-nav!"
"Yes, I remember him Max," she giggled at his enthusiasm, turning to face the champion, "and it's nice to meet you, Steven."
"Nice to meet you too, Serena, was it," he offered a hand. She accepted the gesture and shook hands with him. His hand grip was firm and strong but not overwhelming, "Ash here was very concerned for your wellbeing. I can tell your quite special to him."
"I-I-" he stuttered, with his cheeks turning rosy-pink. She ended the hand shake and used her hand to cover mouth as she giggled, stepping forward to him and pecking his lips.
"Don't you dare deny it, or apologise," she whispered, "your caring is very adorable."
A voice was cleared, and she turned to see Brock approaching next. He had a small metal Pokémon in his arms, with a smile on his face, "and this little guy is Aron. I also caught him today, he seems young, but he also seems tough."
"Well it's lovely to meet you, Aron," she smiled, leaning down to tickle him under the chin. He giggled like a child at her.
"Ma?" a new voice drew her attention. She looked down to see
"And Mawile is May's new capture," Brock explained, "she seems to be quite the attention seeker."
As if to showcase this particular action, Mawile spun on the spot, sending out attract hearts in all different directions. Soon a large collection of Pokémon surrounded her, all with hearts in their eyes. The only one's not to were Pikachu, safe atop Ash's shoulder, Aron, who was still in Brock's hands, Meditite and surprisingly Hitmontop. She wasn't sure how he avoided it, but he did.
They spent the next half an hour or so regrouping and catching up, seeing what everyone went through. While Meditite seemed nervous by the large group, she at least eased up around Hitmontop. Honestly, out of all her Pokémon, she never thought the fighting type would be the one to befriend a new team member first. As she watched the two fighting types interact, she saw Brock approaching, feeding a rock to the little Aron in his arms.
"Hey Serena, would you mind if I looked up Aron on your Pokedex," Brock asked, "I kinda want to learn more about his species so-"
"You'll have a better understanding on how to look after him," she finished his sentence, taking the device out and handing it over, "of course, you can."
"Thanks," he smiled, using the device to scan the little one nibbling on a rock not too far away:
Aron, The iron Armor Pokémon. Aron has a body of steel. With one all-out charge, this Pokémon can demolish even a heavy dump truck. The destroyed dump truck then becomes a handy meal for the Pokémon. To make its body, Aron feeds on iron ore that it digs from mountains
"Well creating a gourmet meal from a mountain will certainly be challenging," he joked, handing her back the device.
"If anyone can do it, it's you Brock," she reassured, "it's a little crazy to think you, me and May all caught a new Pokémon today."
"And your Dustox evolved as well," Brock added, "how is she doing, by the way?"
"Dustox is fine, having a little trouble on her wings but Sakura said Beautifly could help her get the basics down," she smiled, "and then Taillow and Murkrow can help out as well."
"Well just be careful, I don't think May is too happy that Cascoon evolved before Silcoon," Brock whispered, "I don't think she'll try anything but better to avoid an argument wherever possible, right?"
"Right, thanks Brock," she smiled, "I'll be honest, feel a little bad for any future branch evolution May gets. If she sets her heart on one and the Pokémon decides otherwise, then it'll be painful for a compromise between them."
"But we can only cross that path when we come to it," Brock sighed, "we've warned her about the favouritism and everything else so now, it's on her when it comes crashing back down. From the reactions I saw of Torchic and Poochyena, I doubt her story of Silcoon finishing the battle was accurate."
Sighing in defeat, the two of them turned their attention towards May, who was currently on the beach with Silcoon. She was aiming her sting shot up at a combination of Beautifly, Dustox and Murkrow, clearly working on her aim. Ever since May saw Cascoon had evolved, she seemed to be doubling down on training to evolve her own bug type.
"Well, everyone, this has been fun," Steven called out, drawing in their attention, recalling his Aggron to his Pokéball, "but unfortunately, I've got some other business to attend to. Keep safe and if I don't see you before, then I look forward to see you compete in the Hoenn league, Ash and Sakura."
A series of goodbyes replied, as Serena stood back. She didn't get to talk much with the silver haired man, mainly thanks to Max fanboying over him and Ash practically begging for a battle, but he seemed nice enough. It was weird to think they just met a champion, after all, he was nothing like Blue or Ethan... and even those two are complete opposites of each other. She watched as he took out a Pokéball, releasing a Skarmory. Climbing on it's back, they took off into the warm orange sky.
Togetic swirled around in excitement as he watched his little brother training around with grampa Tauros. He was certainly a lot stronger now that he evolved, and he could feel the momentum from his little bro's rollout even way up in the sky.
He had hoped that his little brother could fly with his evolution. That way they'd play in the air together but since he could take harder it, it's just as good.
A little further away, he saw Piloswine with several ancient power rocks floating around him. He gave him the bestest explanation he could, but the ice ground type just seemed to get annoyed. At least he was getting better with the attack. As he continue to look around the training ground, he saw his uncle Primeape walking away from a bout with Serena's Kabutops. Smiling, he swirled down and stopped just above the pure fighting type.
"Hiya, uncle Primeape!" he greeted with a cheerful smile, "how are you?"
"Alright, just a little dizzy after outrage," he shook his head-body, "what can I do ya for, Togetic?"
"Well my little brother evolved and is working with grampa Tauros, but I've been thinking," he replied, "we need to celebrate and have fun."
"Good luck with that, I know as well as anyone Tauros is an old fart," uncle Primeape explained, "if it's not to do with training then he won't be interested."
"Then we'll just need to make it about training!" Togetic declared, "come on, I've got an idea!"
Turning around, he flew straight towards his little brother and grampa Tauros. The wild bull was stood over the newly evolved ground type as they were engaged in some sort of conversation about a new move. He wasn't entirely sure which because as soon as he was within earshot-
"Little brother!" he cried out.
"Togetic, your back!" his little brother cheered, his long trunk waving up and down, "how did training with Piloswine go?!"
"Real good! I bet Piloswine will know ancient power in no time!" he smiled, "and I came up with an idea for us to do!"
"Oh?" grampa Tauros interjected.
"You see, I know when you go through evolution, getting use to a new body is super-duper difficult! And learning to fly is no walking either!" he added, "so I thought of a way to help you get use to your new body!"
"You know Donphan doesn't need to learn how to fly, right?" the normal type muttered.
"We're gonna have a race! All around the ranch!" he continued, "we can start here, and head north, go around the outskirts and stop back here! And I'll ride you, little brother, so if you need help then I'm there!"
"It hardly seems fair to race when one competitor has a rider," uncle Primeape mused.
"And so, you can ride on grampa Tauros!" Togetic added, "I know daddy did back in the orange archipel-ma-gig, so it'll be fair!"
"I don't know about this!" grampa Tauros muttered.
"I do!" Gengar popped out of no-where, "and yours truly can be the commentator! So, let's get this race on the go!"
Next thing Togetic knew, they were set up with a checker mark crossing line. Togetic was sat on the back of his little brother with a set of reigns around his tusks. Just to the side was grampa Tauros, also wearing reigns, while uncle Primeape sat on his back.
"Welcome ladies and gentle-mon to the first annual Poke-ride athalon at the Oak ranch!" Gengar announced, "our competitors today! The not Pichu bro's team of Togetic and Donphan! While they race against the old wild westies, Primeape and Tauros!"
"I hate this already," Tauros muttered barely audible.
"So, without further ado, the rules!" she continued, "anything goes! Wanna attack, go ahead! Wanna taunt, the more the merrier! Wanna belly dance, sure!"
Gengar floated in between them, with some sort of female swim suit over her purple ghostly body, a top of some sort in her hand. A sound system floated next to her, and she hit the play button. A loud cheering crowd echoed around them as the ghost poison type raised her hand, dropping the clothing item.
"And go!" she declared.
As soon as the top hit the gravelled ground, Donphan took off running. It was a little bouncy as he was thrown in the air, making his belly fly up and down, causing a giggle to escape his lips as he failed to keep on.
Looking to the side, he saw their opponents starting off at a slower rate but Tauros quickly built up momentum, matching them. It was clear they'd take the lead so Togetic leaned down to whisper to his little brother.
"Your much quicker when doing rollout!" he told him. The wild westies taking the lead, out of the corner of his eye.
"But how will you ride me if I'm rolling out?" he asked.
"We can figure it out!" he reassured, "besides, there's no rule against it!"
"Okie-dokie!" Donphan smiled.
With a massive leap, Togetic was thrown into the air, using his wings to take over. His brother was rolling around and he swooped down to catch up.
Attempting to land on his brother. He ended up running across his rolling body like a combination of a unicycle and treadmill.
"And the not Pichu bro's come up with a plan to get back into this race!" Gengar announced, "just as we come up to the first obstacle!"
Reaching the wild westies, he looked ahead to see Sandslash's rock dead-ahead. With said owner having his back turned to them, sharpening his claws.
"Now to make things interesting!" Gengar announced. She floated between the racers, a shadow ball in hand. Tossing it, the ball struck Sandslash.
The scary ground type turned around; glaring out them. Togetic felt himself shrink at the intimidating glare. Leaping up into the air, Sandslash slammed one claw down into the ground. A giant crack shot down from his claw and between them, shaking the ground around them.
Wobbling from the impact, he struggled to stay on his little brother's back. They ended up running straight into the ground type, knocking him flying.
"We're sorry!" Togetic cried out.
Unfortunately, he didn't seem to believe them. Looking back, he saw Sandslash dive into the ground. Jumping out as he chased after them.
Ahead was the wild westies team, who picked up speed as they ran down the hill past the rock. Not wanting Sandslash to catch them, they too sped up.
"And with a third team joining this race, we've got the next obstacle ahead!" Gengar announced, "hope you've got insect repellent!"
"How is he a team?! Sandslash is just by himself!" Togetic cried out.
"Like I said at the start," Gengar crossed her arms, floating beside them, "no rules!"
Groaning in annoyance, he looked ahead to the next location. With a hard swallow, he saw the forest where the bug types spent most of their time.
They continued into the wooded area and began swerving in and out of the trees. He squeezed his eyes shut as he felt like they were about to hit everything.
"Hero-bug Ledian, ready for action!" she cried out.
He peaked his eyes opened to see Serena's shiny hero-bug flying ahead. He caught sight of Tauros just rampaging through the trees, not even attempted to dodge them. He was briefly wondering why the sudden change of enthusiasm when he saw it.
Serena's Beedrill and Mr Heracross was chasing them. Neither looking particularly happy.
Sighing that they weren't after them, at least-
They ran straight over Drake's Pinsir!
"Oh no," he thought to himself. Chansing a glance back, he saw Pinsir running after them like a rugby player on a charge. With Sandslash, Dewgong jumping beside, in and out of the ground.
Maybe a race wasn't the best idea after all... or maybe they should've warned everyone first, at least.
"The buggy boyz + legendary hero-bug has joined in the race; it's really heating up now!" Gengar announced, "but our next location should help cool off!"
Looking ahead he saw the larger lake Venusaur built recently. It was filled with the regulars like, Lapras, Croconaw, Quagsire, Drake's Kingdra and Starmie, along with a few of Leaf's and Gary's Pokémon.
Tauros made his way around the north of the lake. Still being chased by the two angry duel bug types.
"Little brother!" he cried out, "if we take the inside path then we'll have to travel! We can still catch up!"
"And it seems the not Pichu brothers have a plan to get back in this race!" Gengar announced, "just as the slippery duo join in the fun!"
Looking around for the new competitors, he soon found his answer. Quagsire was sliding on his belly, with Croconaw stood on his back. Aiming a water gun in front of them, the two were sliding along between Togetic and the leading wild westies.
As he looked at the water type team, he failed to notice someone in the path.
A loud roar drew his attention back, as Donphan wobble from running something over. He realised those two were the same thing, as Dragonite was lying on the grass next to the lake... and they ran over her tail!
"Thus, joins the wicked witch of the west!" Gengar announced, "it's anyone's game now as we enter the final stretch, straight past the cast of means girls!"
He chanced a look ahead to see what the commentator meant but all he saw was the entrance to the lab up ahead. Venusaur appeared to be conversing with both Muk and Pidgeot. Luckily, they weren't in the path of the race.
A mighty roar echoed, and he looked to the sky! Dragonite was over head with a less than happy expression.
He's currently happy about his immunity to dragon type moves!
"Hi Venusaur!" he called out. Said grass poison type looked and his eyes burst open, mouth dropping slightly.
They passed by and he offered a small wave.
"Bye Venusaur!" he added.
They continued across the grassy plains! A group of Delphox, Tangrowth, Ampharos, Quilava and Jumpluff were ahead, practising contest moves.
"We have the heat bringing up the rear as the race enters the scene from mean girls!" Gengar announced, "remember, a team doesn't count as finished the race until all members have crossed the finish line so it's still up for anyone to grab!"
As they entered the contest training area, flames, lightening, and petals flew everywhere. It was utter carnage.
Squeezing his eyes shut, Togetic struggled to keep up with Donphan. After a few moments, he peaked.
Quagsire and Croconaw were sliding ahead, Ledian right on their tail. He noticed Tauros and Primeape right next to them, neck, and neck. Hearing an explosion from behind, he peaked back to see Dragonite roaring through, having used a Dragon rush to protect herself from the contest moves flying everywhere. All the other bugs were following beneath her, as well as Sandslash. Venusaur was also running alongside, with Pidgeot and Muk. It was difficult to make out who was in the lead out of them.
Turning around, his eyes burst out of their sockets at the sight. Tauros and Primeape pulled ahead!
But more importantly, a checkered finish line was set up... with Snorlax sleeping right behind it. The slippery duo smashed into him and bounced off, sliding away from the finish line without a care in the world. Tauros attempted to stop, but stumbled over his front legs, buckling down and sending Primeape flying overhead. Just in time for them to smash head first into the sleeping Pokémon... bouncing off and landing beside the others.
Everything went dark as several others collided at the finish. With aunt Gengar floating overhead, microphone in hand.
"Going from last place, the constants in today's event are a followed," Gengar announced, clearing her throat, "The mean girls cast! Buggy boyz and legendary hero-bug! Law and order! Edward Scissor hands! Wicked witch of the west! The not Pichu bro's! Wild Westies! And the winners... The slippery Duo!"
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