Author's Note:
Here it is, the start of the trek from Slateport and off towards Vurdenturf. Not exactly how the games go but that's not a massive issue. We will see the four trainers each catch a new Pokémon, and this chapter will be two of the new captures. We also get to see the trick house, that's fun. So, onto the chapter, this is another May focused chapter and it centres around a relationship I've been brewing for a while. Remember this is only the start of the particular Pokémon's character arc, you might say this is the inciting incident for them from traditional story telling format. Oh, and that Pokémon in question is Torchic. I want to apologise this chapter took longer to come out than planned but I came down with a bug (it WAS NOT the illness which shall not be named) but it drained all my energy, and I couldn't focus on anything, let alone writing. We have a new poll, but I want to make mention of the previous poll. You'll notice one of the Pokémon caught in this chapter was an option in the last poll. Yes, that poll was to decide which showed up in this role. So, with that in mind, which do you prefer is the next poll as well, but with two more Pokémon. Don't forget to vote and with that, let's begin!
Chapter Twenty-One: Cheering Up
May smiled as she looked down at her red box. It was a ribbon case that Serena gave her when they were leaving Slateport a few days back. She put the ribbon she was awarded after the contest and now it sat nicely in the box.
Looking up from the box, she took in the sight of their current campsite. Max appeared to be conducting some sort of battle between Brock's Aron, Mudkip and Lotad. With the two water types pairing up against his steel rock type. Despite the disadvantage, it was clear he was dominating. While Brock sat nearby with the cooking pot. His Steelix laid down behind him, taking up a large amount of space, as his Slakoth lying on the steel snake's head. Delibird was sat next to the doctor-in-training, seeming to help with the cooking. The sweet scent filling the air.
Over the field she saw the others. Serena's Kabutops, who she learnt was actually quite the sweetheart, was battling against both Treecko and Corphish. She also saw Taillow locked in some sort of combat with Donphan. Pikachu appeared to be in a battle with Serena's Hitmontop. Duskull was battling against Dustox, but it seemed to be more of a contest battle, looking at it. Cacnea was splashing around in the nearby pond, playing with Feebas, she assumed as Sylveon appeared to be helping Meditite with some dance moves. As for her own Pokémon, Beautifly was working with Mawile on an appeals routine, while Torchic and Poochyena were locked in a contest battle. Her Clamperl sat on the ground, being the closest to her, as she practised her own performance. A smile formed on her face, being the furthest along it would make sense she should use her in the next contest appeals. While Ash and Serena were setting out bowls of food.
"Alright guys, come and get it!" the raven-haired boy called out, "dinners ready!"
She smiled and stood up, closing the ribbon case. Placing it in her bag, she made her way over to the pure water type. Picking her up, she carried her over to one of the bowls of food, next to Beautifly. Those two seem to get on really well. Giving them a sweet smile, she made her way over to the bench table.
Ash finished placing the last bowl down in front of where she was going to sit. As Brock came over and poured his stew into the different bowls. Across the table sat the couple as Max took up the seat in between herself and Brock. A gentle silence overtook the group as they tucked into the meal. She had to admit that Brock's stew had become a personal favourite of her. She might not be a cook herself, but she certainly appreciates food as much as anyone.
"So, once we've finished, we should pack up and continue down the path," Serena announced.
Making subtle eye-contact with both herself and Brock, already knowing the alternative reason. Looking down to the side, she saw her brother looking around with a combination of confusion and intrigue on his face. He's used to being a know it all but right now he hasn't got a clue.
"Well, there's meant to be loads of electric types nearby," he shrugged, taking a spoonful of stew, "and some water types over the lake as well."
Looking down the path they'll soon travel down, it looked like a small collections of trees before a wide expansive lake blocked the way. Although the main attraction was a giant metal bridge that shot straight over the water
"Why are we going over the bridge again?" she asked, no-one imparticular. It's not that she didn't want to take part in what Serena and Brock have been planning but surely, they could've just done that than turned around to go over the bridge.
"Because the wild Pokémon live on the natural path under the cycling road!" Max raised his voice, "we can't miss the chance to meet any of them."
"Max is right, not many Pokémon will be on the bridge," Brock chimed in, "it was originally a bridge dedicated solely to cycling to help transport between Slateport and the mainland much easier. Although recent developments made it capable of motor vehicles to travel across as well."
"Cycling huh," May mused, giving a narrowed look towards the couple, "if I still had my bike than-"
Seeing the nervous expressions on their faces caused her to break character and start giggling. Seeming them visibly relax, she took another spoonful of stew before swallowing with a radiant smile over her face.
"I'm kidding," she added, "I know Pikachu didn't mean to zap my bike back at the lab. And besides, travelling the natural route will give me chance to perfect both an appeals performance and contest battle style for another Pokémon."
"One thing I don't get is why this area imparticular is known for electric types," Max pipped up.
"According to my guidebook, it's because of the proximity of Mauville," Brock explained.
"What do you mean?" May asked.
"Mauville is a big city, one of the largest in the Hoenn region and other large cities in Hoenn have natural resources for power," he explained, "like wind turbines in the water near Rustboro, Lilycove and Slateport. But being right in the centre of the mainland of the region, it doesn't have space for such resources. They use powerlines to take electricity from these eco-friendly alternatives and store it in a generator to the south of Mauville."
"Which is right next to the route," Serena concluded, "so the electrical charges must attract the electric types here."
"Just like with the powerplant back in Kanto," Ash added.
"Torchic!"
Surprised by the sudden outburst, May, along with the others turned to see what was happening. Her starter had tears streaming down his cheeks as he angrily barked at Ash's Corphish... who was laid on his back with a carefree expression on his face, and two empty bowls turned over around them. It seemed that all the other Pokémon had also turned to look at incident. She stood up and cautiously stepped closer, as Ash did the same thing.
"What's going on, Torchic?" she asked.
"Chic, Tor!" he cried.
"He says Corphish took his food," Ash repeated, turning towards his water type, "why would you do that, Corphish?"
"Cor Corphish," the water type shrugged.
"Well, we can get you some more," May suggested, turning around towards the others, "right Brock-"
"Tor Torchic!" her starter called out, leaping up into the air. A series of embers shot out and struck the ruffian Pokémon.
Corphish leaped up into the air, with a burning behind. Landing on his legs, he angrily waved his claw at Torchic in an accusatory manner.
"You did kind of deserve it, Corphish," Ash placed his hands on his hips, standing over his water type, "so just apologise and-"
He decided not to do that, aiming one of his claws. It opened up and shot out a barrage of bubble beams which sent her starter flying.
She looked where he should've landed, as the projectile attack ended. Only to find her pure fire type no-where to be seen.
Torchic reappeared in the blink of an eye, right in front of Corphish. His beak glew and extended, furiously pecking him without mercy.
Ash's ruffian Pokémon waved his claws around as water coated them. Knocking her starter away. Skidding onto his two feet the two Pokémon stared each other down as it seemed the battle only just begun.
"Pikapi!"
"Ron! Aron!"
Ash's and Brock's respective Pokémon ran out in between the two Pokémon. Pikachu faced up to Corphish as Aron stared down Torchic. Although all May could do was stare with wide eyes. What's gotten into her fire type? Even if upset, he normally just cries and gets over it. He's never been confrontational.
Luckily, it seemed both Pokémon seemed to give up at the intervention as Corphish laid back down without a care in the world. Torchic burst into streams of tears and ran off over towards a tree... the same one where Ash's Treecko was relaxed in the branches. This also seemed out of character, when upset he normally jumps straight into her arms for a hug. What's gotten into her starter?
"Well now that's over, we should probably finish up lunch," Brock suggested, appearing behind her with a fresh bowl of Pokémon food in hand, "we don't want to be late, after all."
"Late for what?" Max wondered aloud but none of them we're willing to answer... just yet.
"Thanks Brock," she sighed, accepting the bowl from him. Carefully she approached her fire type, who was facing the trunk of the tree directly, unwilling to even glance to the side. Kneeling down, she placed the bowl beside him, "here you go Torchic. Like I said before, you can have as much as you want."
"Chic," he scoffed, puffing his cheeks out in response.
Unsure how to respond to him, she stood up and made her way back over to the table. Glancing over the Pokémon, most of them seemed to have returned to their respective meals, except Corphish who was back in his Pokéball. Taking her seat once more, a thick tension filled the atmosphere as they silently finished the stew.
It seemed to go relatively quick to finish eating but she occasionally glanced back to see how her fire type was getting on. While he was slowly eating the food, every time he found her looking at him, he turned back to the tree trunk. Soon everything was packed away and most of the Pokémon were back in their Pokéballs. She offered to let her starter walk with them, but he opted otherwise. So, they set off down route-one-hundred-and-ten.
"Hey guys," May spoke up, "I'm worried about Torchic. I know he was upset over the food, but he acted completely out of character."
"Maybe it wasn't as out of character as you think," Serena suggested, "everyone changes and... maybe this is the direction Torchic is going."
"Picking fights?" she asked, "but why?"
"Well May, I know you won't like to hear it but-" Ash paused, "but if I had to guess, he's feeling neglected."
"I take good care of him!" she raised her voice.
"I'm not saying you don't," he raised his hands up, "but look at it like this. You showed Beautifly favouritism from the moment you caught her. It's not as prominent now because you have more Pokémon, but Clamperl seems to be a close second for you. Poochyena was receiving some close-up training in prep for the contest and Mawile gets all the attention she wants by using attract on whosever nearby... so it's obvious why he'd be feeling left out."
"I still don't see how picking fights when not needed helps with that," she pouted, crossing her arms.
"Well, he's been the good, quiet Pokémon for this long and he didn't get what he wanted," Serena added, "the logical step would be, try the opposite."
"So, I just need to show him attention?" she asked, "seems simple enough."
"I doubt it'll be that easy," Brock chimed in, "after all, this behaviour has been ingrained into him since you met. That's what? Coming up on two months. It won't be something that's simply overturned by one little gesture."
"I told you how long it took for me and Sandslash to get onto working terms, right May," Ash added, "well it's not exactly same. Sandslash wanted to attention at all but helping a Pokémon through a tough situation like these is what trainers do."
She couldn't bring herself to speak again and cast her head downward, her hand reached to the belt, and she took off her starters Pokéball. She knew deep down they were right, but she never meant for this to happen. Staring at the device, she couldn't help the pit of guilt forming at the bottom of her stomach as tears began to form in her eyes. Blinking them away, she tightened her grip around the Pokéball.
No more will she let him feel left out... not Torchic or any of her Pokémon.
"Hey, check this out!" her brother called out. He ran forward up to a poster below some signs showing the way to Slateport, Mauville and the cycling road. It was off some sort of massive mansion and a magician dressed in a top hat was on the cover, "it says the monthly Trick house trial is happening today and it's really close by."
"Wow, what a coincidence that is," Ash replied, "the idea it would be happening today of all days is-oof."
He rubbed his side as Serena gave him a not-very-subtle jab to the side. He let out a mareepish chuckle as he stood back up.
"I don't know about you guys, but I think we should go and check it out," Serena suggested.
Obviously, they all agreed and continued down the path towards the trick house.
Brock smiled as they saw a large crowd ahead. The mansion from the poster in the background. With a large stage in between the two.
Stopping just behind the crowd, they could barely hear anything over the chatter surrounding them. It didn't take long for a man dressed in a smart black tuxedo with a matching top hat to walk out on stage. Although looking closer, Brock noticed the man's shirt wasn't properly tucked in and his single button blazer seemed ready to pop. With wild purple hair threatening to escape the prison on-top of his head.
"Well, a big howdy-do to ya'll for showing up for our little monthly competition!" he announced, "we know some of you are seasoned competitors and others are new hatchlings, barely out of the nest so let's not waste time and move on to the rules of our competition!"
"Entry is free but competitors may only use one Pokémon throughout the competition! You'll have to work your way through this mansion to the back where our trophy room is held! We have a selection of prizes and first to show up gets to pick their prize! We'll keep going until everything is claimed for! For those worried about being in-experienced, fear not as we revamp each room between events so no-one knows what's lying ahead! You can either go around in groups or solo! So, let's stop this chit chatting and make our way inside to start the event!"
Slowly the gates behind him opened and the crowd began entering. Being taller than most of the crowd, Brock was able to see some sort of workers checking in each participant and ensuring they each had their respective Pokémon out. He felt a tug on his sleeve and looked down to see Max.
"Hey Brock," he whispered, "will I be able to compete? It sounds like you need a Pokémon."
"That's what we thought," Brock smiled, taking a Pokéball off his belt, "so... here, you can take Mudkip in under the guidance that you stay close to Ash."
"Ash?" he asked, glancing back to the raven-haired boy, before turning back, "you're not going in?"
"I've got to give Steelix a brush down and this should give me enough time," he replied, "besides, this will be good practise to see how you'd handle being a trainer. Ash will just be there to help you should you need it."
"R-right," he stuttered slightly, accepting the device in his hand. He watched carefully as he released his pure water type, who he already briefed on what was going on. Out of all his Hoenn team, he figured Slakoth would probably just sleep throughout and Lotad can be... challenging, as well.
As a new starter, or as close to what he has, she made the most logical sense. As for Aron... he can be pretty headstrong and while he means well, he felt that should he disagree with the young boy, he'd go off to do what he felt was right regardless. Besides, Max gets on pretty well with his mud fish Pokémon.
"So, who are you taking in, Ash?" Max asked, "wait, silly question. It's Pikachu, isn't it."
"Actually, I was thinking of taking Corphish," Ash shrugged, briefly glancing to the breeder, "do you mind watching Pikachu whilst we're inside?"
"Of course, not," he smiled, as the electric type leaped off the young boy's shoulder and onto his own. He stumbled slightly from the impact but remained upright, smiling at the electric mouse, "hey now, I think your starting to pack on the pounds Pikachu."
"Chu. Pikachu," he replied, flexing an arm bicep. It was clear he was saying the new weight was all muscle.
"So, what about you, Serena, and May?" he asked, "who will you both be using?"
"I was thinking Meditite," Serena smiled, "it'll be nice to have this sort of bonding experience with her."
"And I'm going with Torchic!" May declared, "after all, I promised I'd show him more attention, right."
One by one they each let out their own respective Pokémon and the responses we're pretty intriguing. Meditite seemed happy about the chance and held Serena's hand as they walked, looking almost like a mother and daughter. While Corphish seemed to be boastful at his abilities since he was chosen, much to Ash's dismay. While Torchic almost seemed to be ignoring May, leading the group without so much of a glance back.
Soon they made it to the gate where one of the workers stopped them, "so I just need the names and whose competing. Along with your Pokémon."
"Ash Ketchum, and I'm competing with my Corphish," the chocolate-eyed boy spoke up, "and we'll being going around with Max Maple and Mudkip."
"Mudkip is actually Brock's Pokémon but he's letting me borrow her to compete with," Max added.
"That's fine," he smiled, noting some stuff down on his sheet, "and Brock... are you going to be competing with that Pikachu?"
"No actually," he shook his head, "I'm just seeing them inside. But I won't be competing."
"That's fine," the worker smiled, "anyone else competing?"
"We are!" the older sister pipped up, "May Maple with her Torchic!"
"And Serena Yvonne, with Meditite," the honey-blonde girl added.
"Alright," he replied, looking up from his clipboard, "that's four competitors ready to go ahead. Sorry sir but I can't let you go past this gate because you're not competing."
"Of course," he nodded, turning back to the others, "bye guys, see you on the other side. And good luck to all of you."
"Hey May," he heard Serena speak up, "why don't we travel through together as well. A little boys verses girl trail between us."
He smiled at the thought of the young couple competing against each other. It was obviously all in good fun but the two of them never competed in the same competition, at least not major events. Maybe a few smaller tournaments here and there and the odd battle on the road but this should be interesting. He looked ahead to where the crowd regathered in front of the mansion.
"Now on the count of three you may enter and start working your way through our trick house," the trick master announced, "uno, dos-"
The eccentric man disappeared... without a tres.
Brock smiled as he watched the crowd swarm inside. While part of him would've liked to take part, it's not like he's desperate for the prizes on offer and when they spoke it through, they agreed that to truly see Max's maturity, he needed to be parted from those who normally lead the group. Even if Ash is one of the driving forces, he can play dumb a lot more convincing than either himself or Serena can. When he last spoke to the Maple parents, they suggested something for when Ash challenges them for his badge so this is just one way to see if it would be a good idea.
He turned around and made his way over to the lake side. A large clearing surrounded him as he took out his Pokéballs, one by one releasing his team of five. Steelix laid his body around the outer ring, creating a cosy little nest for the others. Delibird and Lotad wondered off, with the forming acting like some sort of mentor. While Slakoth laid down next to the breeder, fast asleep. His Aron made his way over to a rock, seemingly to practise his headbutt.
"Alright Steelix, time for your wash down," he smiled, slipping his backpack off.
Taking out a dismantled sweeping brush, he fixed it back together before taking out a try with some metal wax. He completely drenched the end into the wax before starting to scrub up and down the side of his starter's face. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed Pikachu pulling out a mini floatable and hopping on, sunbathing over the water. He chuckled at the sight before focusing back on his job at hand.
"So, how's everyone doing back home?" he asked, "I know I spoke to Forrest back in Slateport but... he's not always forth coming."
His steel ground type let out a low growl.
"Good. At least dad is sticking to his promise," he smiled, "I never told you, did I. About the time we encountered Celebi."
"Lix?" his starter replied, in a questioning tone. Popping one eye open, he looked directly at him.
"It was just before the Silver conference and... it was a weird one, even for our standards," he explained, "but Celebi turns out was inside... or not inside the GS ball. It was weird. Like some sort of beacon, he uses to know where and when in the timeline to go."
"Steelix," he purred.
"It didn't make much sense to me but then again, this is a literal time traveller," he shook his head, "and Celebi offered to take us each on a trip to somewhere in time. And I got to see the future. I saw Forrest had been a successful gym leader and elite four member. I couldn't let dad take that away from him, not after how hard he's worked already."
"Steel Steelix."
The small talk continued as Brock worked away at grooming his giant metal snake. While not as fussy or tasted as Ninetales, he certainly seems to enjoy this time together. Even when they run out of talking conversations, the time together is enough, same as with all of his team.
"Deli Deli!" a familiar voice called out.
Looking up, he saw the ice flying type flying towards them at an alarming rate, straight over the water. Before he could question anything, he saw his Lotad speeding along underneath with something over stretched on his lily pad. Narrowing his eyes, he tried to look closer at what he was carrying.
It appeared to be a green, canine Pokémon with yellow markings. He quickly recognised it as an Electrike, a common wild Pokémon around these parts. It had a large head crest with angular, lightening-like markings on the side. It's snout had a yellow blaze, and it's mouth was open, with closed eyes, in some sort of pain but revealing four fangs. It had a yellow stripe down it's back and his legs each had a spike...
"Wait a minute," he stops in his tracks, fully taking in the sight. He could only make out three of the legs and a red trail of blood dyed the water behind them.
Grabbing his bag, he ran to the shore and pulled out his first aid kit, along with his Pokégear. Already dialling the emergency line, he put the device on loudspeaker, lying down a blanket to work on. By the time he sat down and had the box open, his two Pokémon reached him. Reaching out, he carefully took the small electric type and laid him out in front of him. Light sparks almost made him drop the little guy, but he resisted the urge.
"Hello, this is the national health centre line," a robotic female voice answered, "please tell us in a few words how we can be helpful today."
"H-hello, he stuttered, "my name is Brock and I've stopped at the lake next to the trick house on route one-hundred-and-ten. Two of my Pokémon went exploring and just came back with a wild Electrike. I-it's missing one of his back legs. A-and it's bleeding."
"Alright sir," the voice replied, "we're sending help out to your location now. But we're going to need to stop that bleeding. Think you can follow my instructions?"
"Y-yes!"
"Good, now first thing is keep calm. Your no help to anyone in a panicked state," the voice replied, "and do you have and cloth or anything around? It must be clean to prevent infection."
"I've got a first aid box and some sanitized wet wipes," he replied.
"Good," the voice continued, "now you should also have some hand sanitizer in that kit. Sanitize your hands first then wrap the wet wipes around where the leg is gone. You'll need a firm grip to prevent any further blood loss."
Without wasting a second, he followed the instructions. Despite moving as quickly as he possibly could, he felt it wasn't quick enough. As he placed a few wipes over the stubbed appendage, to ensure the entire part was covered, he reached in and grabbed it tight.
Electrike cried out at the contact and squirmed in place. While he felt sorry for the little guy, he knew it was for the best. He tried his best to ignore grim act he found himself performing and despite sparks forming around the canine's fangs, none actually reached him. Clenching his hand tighter, he tried not to let the pure electric type run out.
"Brock?" the voice spoke, "Brock are you still there?"
"Y-yes," he stuttered, "I've stopped the bleeding b-but Electrike... h-he's-"
"Don't worry," the voice responded, "help is on the way. Just keep pressure on the wound until they get there."
Grimacing as he felt a small shock, he fought the urge to pull his arm back in reflex. Clenching his teeth, he looked down at the erratic Pokémon, attempted to thrash around and bite down on thin air. He could only imagine what this little guy went through to be put in this situation.
May slapped her hands onto her knees and kneeled over, panting heavily. While trying to regain, her breath, she wiped her forehead clear of sweat. Beside her was Serena, not looking in a better shape. With both Torchic and Meditite by their feet, also out of breath.
They somehow made out to the garden which was some sort of hedge maze. It was going well until a pack of Poochyena started chasing them.
"That was too close," she declared, "I'm glad my Poochyena isn't like that."
"If I had to guess, they were more bark than bite," Serena replied, "I can't imagine them allowing Pokémon to actually hurt the constants."
"You didn't mention that when we were running," she stamped her foot down.
"Well... I didn't want to be wrong," she chuckled nervously, "or have one of them go off script. Or get locked in a battle and lose time."
"Alright," she shook her head, "let's just look around and see what we've got next."
Standing up straight, she turned around to find the new room. It was a large sand pit but with cracked earth along the floor. Currently they were stood on the outer ledge, but ropes dangled from the ceiling and through the cracked earth slabs. On the other side of the room was another door with a lock over the handle. In front of the staircase down to the pit was a notice stand with something written on it, like at the start of each room.
"What are we meant to do here?" she asked, as Serena stepped forward, reading the signed.
"It says here," she replied, "there is a key to the door is hidden in one of the rocks sticking out of the ground. Contestants will need to break the rocks to break them open to retrieve the way forward. Caution, other rocks might lead down a Nidoran hole and other wasted trips."
"Great," she sighed, following the older trainer down the stairs and onto the cobbled floor, "so what would we do if our Pokémon couldn't break the rocks? No offence Torchic but I don't see peck breaking these any time soon and you can't exactly burn a rock."
"Chic," her starter puffed his cheeks.
"We'd need to turn around and work our way back to the start, following through another door to reach the end," Serena shrugged, "which is why favouritism isn't exactly favourable. I doubt Beautifly would be able to help much with this trail as well. Luckily, Meditite shouldn't have a problem."
"Couldn't you use your powers and just locate the key like that?" she asked.
"Firstly," she stopped in her place, "that would be cheating. I wouldn't use them to give myself an advantage in a showcase or contest so I wouldn't in this competition either. And secondly, it's not a metal detector. I have no-way to know where the key is without searching. I can only move something that I know where it is. If I don't know where it is then I can't direct my powers towards it."
"Oh great," she rolled her eyes as they stopped by one of the rock pillars.
The fighting psychic type stepped up to the rock and clenched one of her fists closed. It began glowing and she leaped up landing on top of the pillar, she punched the top straight down. The rock began to crack straight down in multiple directions. May quirked an eyebrow up as the cracks travelled over the floor in a perfect square which they were stood on. Before any of them could react, the floor gave in beneath them.
She felt herself scream as the wind rushed past her. Moments later, she felt a gentle stop against some sort of platform. Peeking out, she saw the ground beneath her but with a good inch or two before impact. Looking around, she saw Serena in a spread-out position with her eyes glowing with energy.
"What was that about not using your powers?" May asked.
"Safety is not cheating," Serena muttered.
"You don't hear me complaining," she held her hands up, as she stepped down onto the ground. Meditite landing behind them, on a one knee pose, "hey, is it just me or does this ground feel weird to you?"
"It does," she mused, giving a couple short hops on the spot, "it's sort of bouncy but not like a bed or play den. If I had to guess, it would be designed to hurt, bruise maybe but not break or any serious injury. Even the flooring debris landed spread out."
"Well, i don't like the idea of repeating this until we find the key," May groaned, "maybe we won't have to. At least the falling, I mean."
Working their way across the bottom floor, they found each wall covered in rock climbing handles. It didn't take a genius for them to work out what was needed, and Serena started climbing. Her Meditite followed shortly behind, and May couldn't help but notice her legs in those shorts as she climbed. With a sad sigh, she turned around to check herself out.
While she meant it when she said she was over Ash. It was clear what his preference was, and May couldn't help but feel jealousy boil inside of her. After all, she was older, prettier, and already a successful trainer. Even Drew was more interested in her. How could she compete with someone like her?
Glancing down at her fire type, she sighed and picked the little one up. Placing him neatly on her head, she began climbing up the wall. While easier than she expected, she knew it wasn't nearly as quick as the honey-blonde girl. She saw a hand reach down and accepted the gesture as Serena helped pull her up back onto the upper ledge.
"You don't need to worry about competing ya know," she replied, "your gonna find a guy but you don't need to rush or anything."
"Easy for you to say," she huffed, "you've what, been with Ash for three years."
"Nearly but I didn't go out with him because I wanted a boyfriend," she replied, as they started making their way across the cobbled floor again, "I started dating him because I love him. If I hadn't of met Ash, then I probably wouldn't even be interested in seeing anyone."
"Sure," she rolled her eyes, "but back to this trial. There's gotta be some way to do this without falling down every time."
"Well, I've got an idea for that too," Serena smiled, going on to explain her plan.
Looking at the floor, they found the square block surrounding the chosen rock and made sure to stand on the ledge, and not in the falling zone. Meditite walked over by herself and climbed on top of the rock. She powered up her fist once more and used rock smash straight below her. With the rock cracking similar to before, she took off and leaped over the earth slabs. Making it to Serena's side as the platform crumbled below.
"Well, that didn't have the key but at least we didn't fall again," Serena shrugged, "come on, there's like seven more rocks it could be in."
Nodding in agreement, they walked over to the next rock. Repeating the same process, May chewed on what the older girl said. While she knew that no matter how many guys showed interest in her, she was loyal. It was still disheartening but maybe what she said was true. She didn't need that sort of relationship. It's what her dad had been ensuring for this long but really the only reason she's been focus on it is because-
As Meditite smashed the next rock, a sparkling object caught her attention. Focusing on it, as Meditite made her way across, she realised it was the key and was about to fall down with the rubble. Before she could properly comprehend it, her voice echoed, "quick attack and grab it, Torchic!"
Her fire starter wasted no time in charging forward at his top speed. Leaping over the earth slab as it collapsed beneath him, he disappeared. Reappearing over the hole, his beak snatched the metal object, and his small wing-arms began furiously flapping. A sigh of relief left as she relaxed on the spot, seeing her chic Pokémon land safely on the other side. Cheering by hopping up and down with the key in his beak.
"Alright!" she cheered herself, "wait to go Torchic!"
"Nicely done you two," Serena praised, as they made their way around the destroyed platform, "and good job to you too, Meditite."
Reaching her starter, she swooped him up in her arms and gave him a big hug as he dropped the key into Serena's hand. Following the honey-blonde girl, they walked up to the next door and made their way through. Ready for whatever challenge this trick households next.
"So, what do we have here?" she asked aloud, looking around the new room.
It was almost like some sort of sports hall. A large rectangular room laid head with several different contraptions set up. No-one else was in the room, other than Serena and the two Pokémon. The honey-blonde girl stepped forward to one of the notice signs at the start."
"Congratulations contestant," she read, "your just one room away from the grand prize. Your goal is to complete each section of the obstacle course ahead with your partner Pokémon. It varies on who needs to complete it, either Pokémon, trainer, or both. Should you try to skip a section then a trap door will appear and slide you back to the start. So, stop waiting and go out there to win!"
"So, it's an obstacle course?" she shrugged, glancing down to Torchic. He tilted his head to the side, staring up at her with beady little eyes.
"Chic?" he asked.
"Well, we came this far together, May," Serena stated, "since this is the last room. How about we compete against each other in this one? Make it a little more interesting. It appears to be split into four separate paths so we can each take one."
"Sure," she smiled, turning to look towards her fire starter, "how does that sound to you, Torchic?"
"Tor Torchic!" he bounced up and down, charging off to the first obstacle on the far left of the room.
Smiling at the sight of her energetic little starter, she followed suit after him. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Serena and Meditite heading over to one of the other obstacles. Stopping right in front of a sign, she looked at the climbing bars ahead. Much taller than those used on playgrounds with ropes dangling below, barely avoiding touching the floor. Bending down, she read the sign:
'For your first trial, either Pokémon or trainer can complete this task. It doesn't matter which does it. You need to travel the entire distance of the obstacle without touching the floor. Should it be the Pokémon, then flying isn't an option, including levitation or use of psychic telekinesis. You may begin'
"Well, Torchic... I don't think your talons shall be useful in this competition, so I guess it's up to me," she sighed.
Stepping up to the first rope she grabbed on and pulled herself up. She barely made it two pulls before feeling the burning grip in her gloved hand. While she was pretty athletic naturally, it usually consisted of her leg strength. Running, cycling and the like but arm strength left a lot to be desired. Not to mention how the role rubbed against her chest was pretty uncomfortable. How was she supposed to climb to the top and go across these mankey bars?
"Chic, Torchic!"
Turning to the side, she saw her starter alongside her. With a flame burning behind his beady little eyes. He gave a small hop forward and back again. As she watched his example, a lightbulb went off in her head and her eyes widened in surprise.
Realising what he was getting at, she leaned back, pulling the rope with her. Gravity followed through and sent her swinging forward.
While not getting close to the second rope, she leaned her body with the momentum. Swinging back once more with more energy.
Getting closer on the rebound, she followed the motion through once more. Closing her eyes, she wrapped the rest of her body around the rope and let go with one hand. Reaching out, she grabbed the next rope out of thin air and pulled it close. She hung between then looking back and forth.
"Tor-Chic!"
Smiling at her starters support, she carefully let go of the first string once secure and swung on the second one. It hardly took her brain to comprehend it.
She reached out and grabbed the third rope. Not being nearly as careful, she tried to keep up the momentum in one swift motion... but couldn't.
Unable to get a solid grip on the rope, she began to slip as she swung. Clutching it tight, she tried best she could to stop it. Her feet touched the knot at the bottom, and she opened up to see herself still an inch off the floor.
Sighing in relief, she climbed back up to roughly the same height as before. Her arms locked in place as her breathing turned rigid. This was difficult.
Taking a deep breath, she began swinging once more. Being more careful, she grabbed the fourth rope and safely continued forward.
By the time she reached the fifth and final rope, it felt like she was ready to fall. Confetti cannons exploded around them with a banner reading congratulations. Her arms gave in, and she fell down onto her behind. Being knocked onto her back as Torchic tackled her in celebration.
Smiling and sighing in relief, she hugged her starter and glanced over to the other side of the room. Serena was already on the second part of her obstacle course, in some sort of trampoline as basketballs were shot across the air. It was clear she had to bounce across without being hit.
Willing herself back to her feet, she carried Torchic over to the second part of path they took. In front of her was a giant pool of foam with several pairs of googles laid out, a metal wall with padded lock on far side of the pool, and a sign which read:
'Which ever member of the team, either trainer or Pokémon didn't partake in the last obstacle must be the one to compete here. The challenge is to explore the foam field ahead and find a key which shall unlock the path ahead. Good luck'
"Well, Torchic, guess this one is up to you," she sighed, "you up for this?"
"Tor-chic!" he declared, jumping down from her embrace. He puffed his chest out in a prideful way, causing a smile on her face.
Walking over to the goggles, she pulled out the smallest pair available and placed them over his eyes. She had to admit, he looked a little silly but a buzzer sound throughout the room, drawing her attention to their competition. Serena was flat on her stomach with a ball rolling next to her. It was clear she had been hit and stood up, walking back to the start of her trial. Realising their good luck, she looked down at her starter.
"Come on, Torchic, we can still win this!"
Nodding in agreement, her starter turned around and leaped headfirst into the foam pool. While she knew he wouldn't like swimming, this wasn't exactly water and thought he'd be fine. Unable to make out anything from within the foam, she glanced to the other side of the room, where Serena was attempting to bounce her way through again. Only to find her passing the point which she failed at last time.
Her heart stopped at the sight of her losing the lead... when a series of embers shot out of the other side of the pool. Running alongside to the end, she saw her foam-covered starter running out and shaking his fur of the new accessories. Throwing one of his talons forward, a key shot out. Quickly grabbing it, she turned around and unlocked the door, stepping through as Torchic jumped up into her arms.
She carefully took off his goggles and tossed them to the side, taking in the sight ahead of her. A large sand bed laid ahead, with a single sign, taking up the entire section for each of the final area rather than a separate one for each path taken. Serena and Meditite joined them to read the rules:
'Congratulations on making it to the final test. True teamwork between trainer and Pokémon. The partners must transverse this field and take care of any threat which might show itself. You don't need to win, just get passed. Also capture of the targets is not possible. And no opponent is the same'
"Well May, we've made it this far," Serena spoke up, "so what do you say. May the best competitor win."
"Heh, it sounds like you're already handing me the victory," she chuckled, "May, the best competitor win."
"Heh, I guess that's it," she smirked, turning to her side, "come on Meditite, let's win this."]
"You to Torchic," she declared.
Both of them took off across the sand field but took off across separate sides as their eyes locked on the door ahead. A black zaggy beam, with a purple outline, hit the ground before her feet. Before her, a Pokémon emerged out of thin air.
"Magius!" it cried.
It was purple and appeared to be some sort of ghost type, floating similar to Ash's Duskull. It had a round head with elaborate tufts resembling a witch's hat atop it. The tips of the tufts are paler than most of the body. It had a thin, red mouth that resembles the letter 'w'. Below it's head, it had a long neck with a round lump midway down. Three, elliptical red spheres surround the upper portion of it's body. There are extensions on the sides of it's lower body with the foremost ones tattered compared to rear ones. This gave it the appearance of wearing some kind of cloak. She pulled out her Pokédex:
Mismagius, The Magical Pokémon. The final evolved form of Misdreavus. Known as spell casters, it uses hypnotic abilities to manipulate others, which older generations called curses. Should this Pokémon care for a human, its hypnotic spells can help individuals.
Torchic jumped down and took a battle stance as it lowered down. She couldn't help but glance to the side where Serena was facing another Pokémon.
This one was more humanoid with a hollow torso that sort of resembled a kimono. It had a red band around it's waist. It's body lacked feet and just like her opponent, it floated in the air. It's arms are connected to the sides of it's head and flare at the wrists. The flared portions had a drappled light blue coloration and it's hands consisted of three small fingers. It's head was shaped similar to a sideways water droplet and was topped with two ice crystals that resembled horns. It's head had several holes on it, resembling a mask. Through two of these holes, crystal blue eyes with yellow sclerae can be seen. A mouth could be seen below this facemask. She turned her device back towards this other opponent:
Froslass, The Snow Land Pokémon. An evolved form of Snorunt. The soul of a woman lost on a snowy mountain possessed an icicle, becoming this Pokémon. The food it most relishes is the souls of men.
"Chic!"
She turned back towards her starter, who was being lifted up into the air by some sort of blue light. Mismagius' eyes glew bright blue.
"Ember!" she cried out.
Torchic struggled and opened his beak. A series of embers shot out. Mismagius raised it's arms to block, dropping her starter.
Landing on his behind, she stepped forward to inspect him. Their opponent swung her arms out, sending multicoloured green discs flying.
It struck her fire type and knocked him back to her feet. She knew that they couldn't overpower this opponent when her eyes widened.
"You don't need to win, just pass," she repeated to herself, "alright Torchic, send in another barrage of embers at it."
Her starter nodded as he struggled back to his feet. Taking a deep breath, he launched out a series of embers, but this quickly turned different. The embers combined into a single stream of flames. A tornado of flames surrounded the ghost type as she used her device once more:
Fire Spin: A vortex of fire surrounds the target, creating a lasting effect for a while
"You learnt a new move," she muttered, "nice."
"Tor-Chic!"
Mismagius waved her arms aside once more, sending out another barrage of leaves.
"Flame charge!" she shouted.
The chick Pokémon nodded and stamped his feet around. A fire coat appeared around him as it blocked the oncoming attack. He charged forward right beneath the pure ghost type. He came to a stop and turned directly up, letting out a second fire spin, consuming their opponent.
She wasted no time in charging forward. As she took a wide bereath around the battle, she felt the heat radiating off them. Making it to the other side.
"Come on!" she called out, "we can make it to the finish!"
Torchic stopped his attack and turned to face her, walking towards her as the flames continued behind. He barely made it three steps before Mismagius floated up from beneath the ground. Putting itself between May and Torchic but May couldn't make out any of their faces from this angle. Her mind flashed back to one of the few lessons her dad gave her about normal types.
"While their moves can't harm ghost types, it's hardly a disadvantage because of the wide variety they can learn," her dad's voice echoed in her mind. She cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted, "use Quick Attack Torchic!"
She held her breath for what felt like forever. Glancing over to the other side, she saw Meditite punch Froslass directly in the face, sending her flying into a far wall. The two of them used that opening and ran towards her.
Her starter blasted out of the purple back of Mismagius. He landed by her feet a couple seconds before Serena and Meditite made it over.
"I thought fighting moves didn't work on ghost types," she muttered.
"Meditite knows Foresight to get around that little issue," she replied, "I might be a performer, but I have a battle history to stick to as well. Now go on, May, you and Torchic made it here first. Go and claim your prize for making it here first."
"Thank you," she replied, "not just for this but for everything Serena. Had it not been for you or Ash... or even Brock, I doubt I would've lasted this long on my own."
"You need to give yourself more credit, May," she offered, "you're a lot tougher than you think you are. That ribbon you won proves it."
"Still thanks to your help," she replied.
"Ash and I had help when starting out, too," she smiled, "obviously Brock but also Misty. It's nothing to be ashamed off."
Offering the honey-blonde girl a smile, she turned back towards the final door. Torchic hopped up and she caught him in her arms. Giving him the biggest hug, she could muster, she glanced back to see other competitors on the beginning stages of the obstacle course. Sighing, she stepped up to the door.
Stepping inside the final room, May's eyes widened at the sea of items plastered around. An entire bookshelf of different titles, a sports equipment section, some fishing gear, even a kitchen area. With the centre piece being a stand with a single Pokémon in the centre. Although it wasn't a normal Pokéball, but a nearly complete red one with a double black line around the outer edge and black ring around the centre button.
"And we have a winner! Two actually!" the trick master dropped down from the ceiling. May took a hesitant step back in surprise, "and cute ones at that! I, as master of this mansion commend you two fine maidens on your trials passed. Now missy in red, as first to entre, you have rights to the grand prize."
"The Pokéball?" she asked.
"It's a cherish ball, to cherish the little darling inside," he replied, "now unless you wish otherwise. I believe you have a friend to meet."
Shrugging her shoulders, she made her way over to the glass-encased stand. Lifting the top off, she carefully placed it on the ground next to her before taking in the sight before her. Taking a deep breath, she took in the sight of the device. Slowly reaching out and touching the top.
Multicoloured pieces of confetti fell around her as a series of trumpets played.
Terrified by the surprise, she fell backwards, her hand instinctively clutching to the device. She fell on her behind as a bright light flashed in front of her, releasing the new Pokémon onto her stomach. It was small and cream-coloured stood on two legs. Large ears stood atop of his head, which were a pale baby blue colour. The same shade made up circles on its cheeks, similar to Pikachu's but with cream strips making a minus sign. The dot light nose and cute, childish smile were both adorable, only matched by the beady, dark blue eyes. Its four limbs were stubby and digitless, with front blue paws. While it's short tail was tipped in the same blue colour, shaped like a minus symbol.
"Min?" it seemed to ask, tilting it's head to one side. Pushing herself, she smiled as the small Pokémon fell down onto her lap. Reaching into the travel bag, she ruffled it around before pulling out her Pokédex. Holding it above her new team member, she scanned the little one:
Minun, The cheering Pokémon. Minun is more concerned about cheering on its partners than its own safety. It shorts out the electricity in its body to create brilliant showers of sparks to cheer on its teammates. It's believed to have some genetic connection to the Pokémon Plusle.
Type: Electric
Ability: Minus
Hidden Ability: Volt Absorb (Note: This hidden ability is currently locked)
Gender: Female
Nature: Hasty (Note: This is unlikely to change as this Pokémon can't evolve)
Move(s): Nuzzle, Play Nice, Growl, Thunder Wave, Quick Attack, Helping Hand, Spark, Encore, Switcharoo, Swift, Electro Ball
"Well, it's very nice to meet you, Minun," she smiled, putting the device away, "I'm May and I'm a Pokémon coordinator."
"Tor Torchic!" her starter called out. She turned towards the fire type, who puffed his cheeks out. Giggling at the call for attention, she reached out and scratched the top of his head, causing the chic Pokémon to coo under her touch.
"And this is Torchic, my starter," she explained, "say hello you two."
"Chic Tor," Torchic gave a small nod of the head.
"Minun!" the electric type cheered, diving down to embrace her starter in a big hug. Despite being a bit shorter, and his stubby arms not completely reaching around. The cheering Pokémon was able to spin her starter around. It was very cute.
"Torchic!" he struggled out of the grip, causing Minun to drop him. She didn't waste a second in picking up her starter and embracing him in a hug herself.
"Thank you, Torchic," she replied, "this was a lot of fun indeed. And I've decided, the next contest we enter, I want you to be a part of it."
"Chic?" he asked.
"Yep!" she replied, lifting him up so their eyes met, "I've already promised Clamperl the chance to perform the appeals performance but that just means we'll need to take on the battle rounds together. Sound good to you?"
"Tor Torchic!" her starter cheered beaming with wide beady eyes.
"Minun!"
Turning their attention to the new team member, May couldn't help but smile at the sight. The pure electric type was performing some sort of cheer routine, as if to celebrate with them. Unable to contain herself, she dived forward and swooped up her newest Pokémon, picking both the small ones up in one massive group hug. She couldn't be happier with how today turned out.
As they calmed down, she noticed Serena stood with a new make-up kit in hand. It was a portable box with an oval mirror inside and different sections for the different types of make-up, such as lip stick, eye liner, cream, face primer, foundation, and the one already filled in, appeared to be chesto berry lip gloss.
"So that's what you won?" she asked.
"The trick master let me pick and I've been meaning to pick up a new one," she shrugged, "I need to use more make-up now I'm competing in showcases."
"And the lip gloss?" she asked, peaking closer, "chesto berry flavour."
"Hoenn is so humid that my lips crack way more than they did in Kanto or Johto. Even more than the orange archipelago," she replied, "and as for the flavour, it's one of Ash's favourites. If I'm gonna be kissing him, might as well pick a flavour I know he likes."
"Of course," she rolled her eyes.
They spent the next few minutes conversing as more people made their way inside, having completed the trick house themselves. It was amazing to think this monthly event was completely free. Funded by an eccentric millionaire with way too much time on his hands. Soon Ash and Max entered the prize room, with them each picking out a prize for themselves.
"So, what did ya'll get for completing the challenges?" she heard Serena ask as they approached the two boys.
"I've got this cool collection of elemental stones!" Max cheered, showing off his case containing one of each stone: water, fire, leaf, sun, thunder with a couple more she couldn't quite recognising, "you no Ash, if you ask nicely, I might let you use the thunderstone on Pikachu."
"Thanks Max but no thanks. Pikachu decided a long time ago not to evolve and I'm not about to take that decision away from him," he shook his head, turning to face Serena and May herself, "hey cool, a new Pokémon!"
"Say hello to Minun," she smiled, lifting the little electric type up, who gave a cute little wave with her stubby arm, "she's who I won because we made it here first and Serena let me enter first. So, what did you pick Ash?"
"I got this book detailing the Hoenn champion's league," he smiled, holding the item up.
The cover showed Steven Stone at the centre with some weird metal monster-like Pokémon underneath him. Four more people behind him, one being an older man who resembled a pirate, and some sort of blue dragon behind him. An older women with pale-cream hair opposite with some sort of large blue Pokémon with two large fangs. A younger women in some sort of holla with some sort of purple goblin Pokémon behind her. While the final man was a middle-aged man with a red flick of hair over a mostly bold head. Behind him stood some sort of white wolf Pokémon.
"That book is a couple years old," Max commented, "even if they're all the same, some of their aces have changed recently."
"Really?" Ash asked.
"Yep!" he smiled, taking the book in hand, "you see, this is Sidney. He's the newest member. I think he's from Galar originally and specialises in dark types, but his Absol has been partner since the start. Then there's Phoebe, she specialises in ghost types, but her ace changed from a Dusclops to Sableye last year, and the same with Glacia. She swapped Walrein for Glalie but Drake, he's the dragon specialist. Although he rarely shows up, it's always with Salamence."
"Cool," the raven-haired boy replied, "I can't wait to see them in action. The elite four are always so cool!"
"Anyway," May spoke up, drawing the two boys out of their little discussion, "what do ya'll say about getting out of this place? I bet Brock is board silly waiting for us."
Everyone seemed to agree, and they set off out the door which led to the exit on the left wing. She smiled as Minun climbed up her body, resting on her shoulder, nuzzling her cheek against May's. While she held Torchic in her arms. Today has been a pretty great day and her little starter certainly seems in higher spirits. She also noticed Max still carrying Mudkip, it's nice to see him growing up to. He might be a pain but he's also her little brother.
As they walked down the front garden, May couldn't help but quirk an eyebrow up at the sight of a paramedic car speeding away. Brock was stood with a couple of the workers with something in his arms. As she closed in, she realised it was a Pokémon and pulled out her Pokédex to scan it:
Electrike, The Lightening Pokémon. Electrike stores electricity in its long body hair. This Pokémon stimulates its leg muscles with electric charges. These jolts of power give its legs explosive acceleration performance.
Putting the device away, her attention was drawn to the legs after the dex made specific notice of them. She gasped at the sight, almost tripping over her own feet. While three of the legs seemed fine. One of the back legs gone, not even the knee remained but a white bandage covered it. While Electrike was cradled in the breeders arms, like some sort of baby.
"Hey Brocko! Guess-" Ash called out, stopping in his tracks and pausing, "wh-what?"
"Hey guys," he smiled, taking it in stride, "I want you to meet Electrike. He's my new team member. Electrike, these are the friends I was telling you about, Ash, Serena, Max, May. And, of course, we couldn't forget Mudkip."
Said water type gave out a happy cry and ran up to her trainers leg. With an honest smile on his face, he kneeled down, carefully holding Electrike out for her to meet. While she watched the two Pokémon interact, May took a hard swallow, unsure how to bring up the Donphan in the room.
"Hey Brock," Serena greeted, kneeling down to their current eye level, "and it's nice to meet you, Electrike."
She reached her hand out but the pure electric type visible flinched, so she quickly pulled back. Brock stood up, whispering soothing words to his new team member, gently bouncing him around until the whining stopped. She saw the canine slowly reach up and lick the older teens face.
"Erm, Brock," Max spoke up, "i-is that blood on your shirt?"
"It is," he confirmed, looking down to the electric type, "hey Electrike. How about you rest up in your Pokéball."
Receiving a small nod, he slowly pulled a Pokéball off his belt and recalled the electric type. Relaxing as he clipped the device back to his belt, he stretched his arms around in clear relief before turning to face them all once more.
"So," he started, "I'm guessing your wondering what happened?"
"That would be nice to know," Ash replied.
"Well, I was giving Steelix his brush down and the others had gone off to do their own thing when Lotad and Delibird came rushing over with Electrike," he explained, "I don't know how he lost his leg. Even Pikachu tried asking. Those two seemed to get along but no answers."
"I can't imagine anything good," Serena offered.
"Obviously, I called for support and helped with stopping the bleeding," he continued, "and by the time Nurse Joy arrived with her assistances. He was close to passing out. She helped set up a blood drip for him and she had to cut off more of the leg to save him. It's why his knee is gone now."
"Poor fella," she muttered, mostly to herself.
"It wasn't pretty, but she was able to stabilise him and get him into a condition to travel," he explained, "she wanted to take him back to the centre at Mauville, but he refused to go with anyone but me... as you saw, Serena, he's not exactly trusting."
"Can't say I blame him," Ash added.
"It took some convincing, but Nurse Joy let me catch him," he replied, "she showed me how to clean up and change his bandages. And I need to get him a physical check-up at every Pokémon we stop at. Delibird went back home as well."
"I can't imagine the amount of care he'll require," Serena added, "if you need any help with anything-"
"Thank you," he smiled, "but the thing that worries me the most is how he lost his leg."
"I thought you said he wouldn't make note of it, not even to Pikachu," Ash replied.
"He wouldn't but Nurse Joy told me what she found," he replied, "bite marks. From an Electrike."
"So, he was attacked?" May found herself asking.
"No," he shook his head, "if he had been, he'd have other injuries to show some sort of fight. And wild Pokémon rarely go this far. Joy... she said that if she had to guess then the original amputation was self-inflicted."
May gulped as they started walking out of the mansion grounds. She could only begin to wonder what would cause someone to bite their own limb off.
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...