Pokémon Chapter 5
I'm Back. I am genuinely happy about the last chapter. I felt my writing just jumped. Now, in this chapter, I'll be having everyone on their way to Cerulean City. Blue is taking an alternate path than most with the help of Brock. Ash, Green, and Sabrina are leaving Mt. Moon to inconspicuously go back on the intended path. Red, Well, He has a pretty good method to get there fast. Will they meet? Who knows?
Also sorry this took way too long to get out. I apologize
Took a break for Thanksgiving.
Some Reviews I got:
dragonking: Future shippings? I don't know honestly. Since they're 10 right now. Maybe in the future sequel. As of right now, they're going to become friends.
Reader: Thank you.
I am Vegito: Thanks and updates might come slowly for now.
MariDCfan: Thank you! I really like fics like these, but I never encounter them often. So, I began writing one.
I don't own anything but the 'story'
Chapter 5: Step 1.6 to 1.8
"You know Brock when you said shortcut. I thought that would mean easy to travel through a shorter passage. Not sifting through the mountain rocks." Blue said as he dusted himself off. The passage was rough and coarse, it was everywhere the eye can see.
Brock was humming to an unknown tune as he walked off the mountain with practiced ease. His Onix traveling waiting for them to get off the mountain. "Well, I did say it was short, didn't say it was easy."
"How often do you do this, and how come isn't this used or exploited?"
"Again, it's dangerous to travel, you only got a pass because I knew which route to take. Another point is that Mt. Moon was already traversable, so it would be a waste to just give up on it after using it for who knows how long."
"Couldn't you tell the League about it? They would probably fund you to make this path."
"Yeah, they could. Or, they would do what they always do, and not do anything that doesn't directly involve them. Mt. Moon was considered a heavy blow because a lot of the League scientist was studying there. The League takes care of themselves first."
"That sounds fair doesn't it?"
"No, the League works directly with the government. Hell, they're practically merging. So, they have a responsibility to the people."
Blue didn't talk any further. He got down from the mountain with the help of Onix; Which he stood on top of his head as it lowered to the ground. Finally getting off of his head he squinted and looked ahead. Cerulean City. It was straight ahead. Now, both of his Pokemon, Charmander, and Gible were weak to water or were neutral. He didn't want another Pokemon right now, so he needed a strategy.
"What are you gonna do now Blue?"
"Let's get something to eat first, I'll come up with a plan while we walk." Blue without warning Brock, speed-walked towards Cerulean City. Brock matched his pace after returning his Onix.
As they walked in comfortable silence. Blue wanted to get there before Green did, he knew Red stayed behind to train, but Green went on ahead. He didn't know why she was speeding through, but he knew she moved with a purpose.
Green never did explain why though. He wanted to know why.
She was like another sister to him.
Blue had a lot on his mind And he wanted to solve all of them.
Misty was fishing, what was she fishing for? A Milotic. Her sisters said it was impossible, but she knew from research that they migrated during the spring to other regions different than Sinnoh. One of those regions was Kanto. So, she was fishing just outside of Cerulean. Of course, she knew that there was little chance, but she was going to try.
Her train of thought was broken when she felt a strong tug on her fishing line. "Oof! This is a big one!" She instantly reeled it in. Misty yanked it out quickly. Water splashed everywhere. It hit her and Staryu.
Her eyes widened at the catch. A boy. Red hat, red and white jacket, and jeans. He looked derpy. Especially when he spit out water like a fountain.
Red looked at her with gratitude. "Thank you. I thought I would drown." "...Your wel- wait. Why the hell are you in the water!" "For a swim." "For a swim?" "Yeah." "Fully clothed?" "Yep..."
Misty began putting him back into the water.
Red panicked. "W-wait!"
Misty sighed. Reeling him into her she unfastened the hook from his jacket. and placed it near her backpack. Staryu opened the cooler they brought with them to get drinks. Red gladly took the soda and drank hastily.
"Staryu, don't give strangers our drinks." She scolded him with a disappointed look. Staryu cowed at that. They didn't want to disappointed Misty.
"Hey... That's not Staryu's fault. they were being kind." "Well, my plan is a bust because of you. A lot of water Pokemon avoid us when we are in the water. They only trust us if we're small, or they know us for a long time."
"You'll get another shot, don't blame me."
"...Alright. I'm just a bit miffed."
"I'm sorry Staryu." Misty crouched down to Staryu's level and patted them on the top point. Staryu warbled cry of excitement got Misty smiling at her partner.
Red smiled at the small interaction. He should pay her back for saving him. He got up from his sitting positions and dusted himself off. Even though he was wet and not dusty.
Misty gave him her attention when he got up. "Are you going?"
"Yep, to Cerulean," Red said.
"Do you know the way?"
"Nope."
"...Huh. I'll take you there."
"Really?"
"It's the least I could do."
"Let's go!"
"Hey! Let me get my stuff first! Don- Wait for me!" Misty ran after him after clumsily getting her things with Staryu follow her by spinning. Red laughed as he ran faster.
Misty growled before smiling. She didn't meet many people. So, having one that didn't immediately judge her was refreshing. This kid might be dumb, but he has heart.
The trio finally was at the exit after the long journey down the mountain. Thanks to the digletts, they were able to travel without anyone realizing it. When they were at the exit they checking in with the police officer they were on their way to Cerulean. Ash got a look from the Police Officer when she saw his license but that was quickly ignored and forgotten.
Ash was happily humming along with Green who was just a bit behind him. She looked behind herself every so often. Sabrina was silent walking behind them. She was softly humming along with both of them. Every time Green looked behind Sabrina looked inconspicuous. Green picked up the pace every few moments to not be around her.
This made her walk to the side of Ash soon enough. Sabrina could easily watch both of them now. As they walked mostly without talking to each other. The atmosphere was quiet and calm, and no one wanted to ruin it.
One of Ash's Pokeball burst opened and out came Pikachu. He, now knowing what was inside a Pokeball, did not want to stay in it for long. He stretched his limbs and began running around Ash.
Ash let out a laugh as he lifted a leg each time Pikachu made a lap around him and made an 8 figure motion. It was to let Pikachu run under him. Green stifled a laugh with her hand at the sight. It was like watching someone in their own little world.
Sabrina studied the Pikachu. There was an interesting wavelength coming off of it. She needed to watch it more. Preferably in action.
"Hey. So, what's your plan when we get to Cerulean?" Ash said. It was to Green who was beside him. He wanted to know what was her plan onwards.
"I'm going to challenge the gym leader, and rest a bit," Green responded. She put her arms outward in front of her and tensed. The whole debacle was tiring for her, and they didn't get a lot of sleep.
"What about you Ash?" Green then turned back to face Ash.
"I'm going to fight the gym leader of course!" Ash wanted to catch up to the others sooner than later. He also wanted to do something else, not that Green or Sabrina needed to know.
Now getting closer to the gates of Cerulean, Ash tensed his body, and slammed his feet to the ground, propelling him forward. Green was caught by surprise, before rushing after him, just a bit slower. Sabrina took her normal pace and followed casually.
Ash inhaled and exhaled air. He could feel his chest expand and then contract. His teeth on full display and he was rushing. He felt like he couldn't stop. Going to slam into the first wall if he kept going. His thoughts on getting his first badge clouded any other options. The feeling when the badge would be in his hands would be great. Pikachu, his new friend, was right there running with him. Easily running at the same pace.
Green was rushing after him, and now she felt the cons of her black dress. She needed something else to wear. She slowed a bit before huffing and puffing. She propelled herself forward to try and catch up. Not wanting to be near the psychic alone.
Near the gates of Cerulean City was empty, it seems today was a slow day for everyone there. That was good for trainers as nothing was stopping them from challenging the Gym.
As Ash got to the gate. He made his footsteps heavier to stop his momentum. He passed the arched gate and looked upon Cerulean. It seemed like was nothing out of the ordinary. People were walking about, small kids were playing, some trainers were battling.
His ears caught the sound of a dying Seel, he looked behind him and saw Green heaving. Her mouth was large and open. Her shoulder moved with her breathing. Her hands were on her knees.
"..."
"Now... I caught up...Don't... Ever... Do that again." Green, exhausted, let out a last sigh of relief. That took more out of her than what she wanted the others to see.
"Ehe... Sorry~"
"Pika-Pi." Pikachu put his tiny arms onto his hips and shook his head. His trainer was a child. How could he know better?
"Oh, be quiet Pikachu. You came to me." Pikachu looked shocked. He blushed at that.
Ash grinned at him with bright white teeth. A grin that was the only mirth. Like a clown mask that was a smile. Less creepy, but it was forever.
He turned his heads toward the back to Green. Behind her was Sabrina who caught up to both of them. Green yelped before jumping away from her. Ash looked at her curiously and Sabrina furrowed her brow. She held her right elbow with her left hand, and her right hand covering her mouth.
Ash looked at her. From what he saw, she was covering a laugh. He whispered a laugh to not bring Green ire onto him.
Green, however, was aware of Sabrina's eyes. They were focused on her and only her. They were piercing. Her shoulders were shaking, simulating that of one hiding their laughter. Sabrina's eyes were closed to show mirth. She doubled over. Ash laughing got a bit louder. Heat went up to her face. Green couldn't understand Sabrina.
"This is exhausting. Can we get something to eat? Please?" Green didn't want this to continue.
A growl came out of Ash's stomach. He blushed and put his arms to cover his stomach. Sabrina blew air out of her nose.
"I know a place. It's really good." Ash turned to Sabrina with a star in his eyes.
"Do they have noodles? Spicy noodles?" Sabrina was caught off guard when he took steps closer to her. He really liked noodles.
"Yeah, they have all kinds of Kanto food from across the region, even Johto versions." Ash and Green's mouth were watering. On hearing that there was all kinds of food and the other... Reminiscing.
Sabrina couldn't get into Green's mind. Her mind was blocked by something, and her thoughts were fast and erratic. Ash was an open book.
"C'mon! Let's go!" Ash ran without warning.
"Hey, You don't even know where you're going!" Green waved her arms wildly before she ran after him.
"..." Sabrina blew air from her nose. Annoyed now. She followed.
Misty finally caught up to Red. She scolded him before taking his arm in her hand and began dragging him. With each step, she took you could hear a firm stomp. She didn't want him to get lost. Red, for all the energy he has, was dragging his feet. It felt like Misty was carrying a mannequin too heavy for her.
Misty was miffed when she heard a growl.
"What are you angry for!?" Misty turned to him for an answer. She saw the water dripping off of Red's clothes and his chin.
"I'm not angry! I'm just hungry." Water splashed around when he put his hands up for a surrender. He shook his head and water sprayed onto Misty. She shut her eyes. Red realizing what he was doing, stopped and swallowed his spit.
Misty controlled her ire. She let out a heavy breath before opening her eyes. "If you're hungry, I know a bakery." The bakery in question was one of the best chains in Kanto. It started in Kalos, but their reach was one of the biggest. It was better than most fast food.
"A bakery?"
"Why do you sound so disappointed!?"
"I-i didn't mean it like that! I thought we could get something meatier!" Red thought about some noodles was nice. Something a bit heavier in his mouth.
"Well, what do you want to eat?"
"Whatever you want to eat. You know this place better than me."
"Then let's go to the bakery. They have the best pastries!"
"Okay, Let's g-" A beeping sound came from his pocket. Red, who knew where it came from, paled. He hoped it wasn't destroyed. He blew a sigh of relief after seeing that it wasn't damaged.
He opened it to see the blue light beeping quietly with a message at hand.
Alert!
Pokedex holders Nearby!
Red stared at the message a bit. This meant the others were here in Cerulean. They got here before him, probably. They would, he believes that they would. His face lit up at the thought of meeting them here.
Misty saw the beaming face of her new companion. Her hard blank stare was all he needed to see from her. Was there going to be a detour?
Red calmed himself. "Let's go to the bakery. I can do the other thing after."
"Thank you." Misty took his arm, gently, and dragged his body to the bakery.
Blue and Brock were walking towards the food district. Brock told him that Cerulean organized many of its shops were placed near its competitors. Blue looked around for a suitable restaurant that catered to both of them.
Blue's nose caught many whiffs of aroma. The sun was out and lit up every corner of Cerulean. The hot rays made the colors of the district blur. He felt his sweat come from his head to his chin.
"Where did this heat come from? Damn, it's hot." Blue could only wipe away the sweat before drowning his purple sleeve. This heat wasn't here when they got to Cerulean.
"You're right. It has to be a Pokemon. The only question, is where are they?" Brock scanned the area. He tried to find a fire-type Pokemon. He saw none in the area. Brock gulped some water down. Fast enough that some water escaped his lips and went down his face like a waterfall. He scrambled to put the lid back on.
"Ha!" Blue cackled at the sight.
"Yeah, yeah, laugh at it," Brock grumbled.
"So, We need a place to eat, but nothing spicy."
"You can't handle spice, Blue?"
"I can handle Spice! It's just that... In this heat, it won't be good for us!" Blue said a bit too quickly. He questioned how Ash could stomach it.
"We-" *Beep* *Beep* *Beep* Blue and Brock stopped talking and looked to his pocket. He dug his hand and grabbed his Pokedex to see why it was beeping. Blue flipped it open to read the message it was sending him.
Alert!
Pokedex holders nearby!
That got his attention. Red and Green are nearby, or maybe just one. Didn't matter. He had another thing to add to his plate in Cerulean. A lop-sided smile came upon his face. This was gonna be good. He put it away and smirked at Brock.
"Good news, perhaps?"
"Excellent news. Let's get something to eat." Blue moved without hesitation, a fire in his eyes.
Or maybe he's just hot from the heat. Colors were blurring that was far away from him. Maybe get some baked goods. That sounded nice to him. "Is there any bakeries around?"
"Bakeries? I don't know, let me check." Checking his phone, which he got from his dad, he searched up bakeries in Cerulean. Looking through the options, swiping vertically up to see all of them.
"Alright, the best bakery is this famous one called Aurorus Cafe. Five stars around. The food looks pretty cheap as well."
"That sounds great, let's go."
"H-hey! Don't leave without me! A-are you speeding up!?"
Ash, Green, and Sabrina, after calming down, walked in comfortable silence. Ash took strides while Green was ahead of him. Ash couldn't hide the jittering of his body. Green, being ahead of both Ash and Sabrina, was walking to find the food district. Green turned her neck towards the two now and then. Sabrina, again, walked behind the two so they don't leave her sight.
"Sabrina, do you know who the Gym Leader is in Cerulean?" Ash said. He slowed his stride to walk with Sabrina. Sabrina turned to him, without missing a beat.
"The Gym Leader, well, there's three of them. They're called the 'Sensational Sisters'. They are performers more than they are Gym Leaders." Sabrina spoke. Her face contorted. Her brow furrowed, her mouth went down and stretched across her face. Her bangs shadowed her eyes.
Ash knew he probably shouldn't have said that. "So... They aren't a challenge?"
"Most likely." Sabrina huffed at that. She didn't want to talk about them. The less, the better.
'A hatred?' Green didn't look at the two when she thought this. This was the first time she saw this kind of derision from Sabrina. Green kept on looking around for the restaurant. It was getting really hot. How could Ash and Sabrina handle this? They didn't even look affected by it. She started to sweat.
As she stretched the neck of her clothing to escape the heat. A whispered beeping alerted her. She opened her messenger bag to get the Pokedex. Ash and Sabrina, now near her, looked at what she was doing.
Getting the Pokedex out of her bag and opening it. She saw the message.
Alert!
Pokedex Holders Nearby!
Staring at the message for a few seconds. She was looking at the Pokedex, but her sight was something far from that. Sabrina looked at her tensing. She couldn't get a good look at her face. So, she did what she did with no remorse. She read Green's mind.
Sabrina was brought out of it when many emotions were thrown her way. A small part of the thoughts was her. Interesting. Most of the emotions were happiness about a reunion so soon. A small part of fear.
"Green? What are you staring at?"
"H-huh? Oh. Just a message I got from the Pokedex."
"Oh!? What was it!?" Ash wanted to know. It could be something great! Or something bad. Or maybe Professor Oak gave her a message.
Professor Oak.
Ash was caught off of his thoughts when Green responded
"It's the other Pokedex Holders. Red and Blue. they're around here somewhere." Green didn't show any jittering or excitement. Going off of her face, which looked like a kid at Christmas, they didn't need anything else.
"Red and Blue are here? In Cerulean?"
"Y-yes! They're here! C'mon, let's go find them!" Green took off without any other explanation, she didn't need any. They were her friends, and that was enough.
Ash understood that. He knew Green had friends that he also knew. He just didn't know them that well. He didn't move one inch. He forced his legs to stay rooted where they were. He stared at the back of Green as she got further and further away, before turning left. Out of sight.
"...Ash?"
"..."
"Pika.." Pikachu stood ahead of him, ready to move for his friend. They could still catch up with her if they ran. He stood on his hind legs after the prolonged silence. Pikachu looked worried for his friend. He stood like a statue, with a heavy look to where Green stood and ran.
"...I'm fine. Sorry about that. I was just thinking about something."
"You didn't look fine, Ash. Are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine. Really. Let's go to the restaurant. What did you say it was?"
"...It's called Kanto-Johto Journeys. Not an original name, but it's good."
"That sounds good."
"Should we get Green?"
"No, she wants to find her friends. We shouldn't stop her. If she wants to find us, she knows where."
Sabrina didn't say anything after that. She knew that Green didn't actually know where they were going. Both Ash and Green didn't ask about it. She knew that Ash knew that as well. He wasn't bright, but he wasn't dumb. Sabrina didn't want this to go any longer.
"I don't want to bother her." Sabrina heard the low whisper of Ash's voice. He didn't want any of them to hear that. Sabrina knew she accidentally breached the line.
She took his hand in hers and walked to the restaurant. Ash walking behind her silently. Pikachu crawled to Ash's foot before climbing him. He nuzzled Ash. Ash patted his head before smiling at him.
The smile didn't quite reach his eyes.
Sabrina looked back at him. Her eyes searching for something. She spoke.
"I'm still here. You can talk to me. What am I? A wall?"
Ash looked at her confused. Sabrina toned was sarcastic. Yet, this warmth pervaded her voice. She was looking back at him while they were still walking, hand in hand.
"What?"
"I said, even though Green won't be here, I still am. You can talk to me." Ash stared at her for a bit. Pikachu did as well. Ash looked down, his hat masking his face. That didn't matter, his ears turned red. Pikachu made a face that was teasing. He stuffed his hand onto Pikachu's head. That got a laugh out of Pikachu.
Sabrina looked to the front. She didn't smile, but she was happy.
Ash looked up. His face was beaming and red. "Yeah. Let's go."
Green ran. No hesitation. Her breathing got faster. Her eyes scanned the area for any trace of her friends. Looking for a red and white jacket, or a long sleeve purple shirt. She squinted and leaned forward while pivoting her body to scan the whole 360.
Looking at the Pokedex, she fiddled with it to see if there was a locater. Seeing no such thing, she sighed. Stretching her black dress's neck and fanning herself, she kept on looking.
Walking to the corner of the street she was currently on, she spotted a familiar spiky brown hair haughty kid. Her face lighting up, she sped walked to the boy and... a friend?
They were eating in a bakery. Near the glass window wall that was the entrance to the restaurant. The boy spotted the Green walking to the bakery. With a confident smirk, he tilted his head back and waved at her. It was half-committed. The boy across from him looked to where he was waving. Seeing the girl, he politely waved.
Green waved back at them, before entering the restaurant. Walking towards the two and took a seat by Blue. Blue looked away at the bright smile by Green. He saw the way Brock looked at him, glaring at him to knock it off. Brock only smiled more.
"Is this a friend of yours, Blue?"
"Yeah, she is. Brock, Green. Green, Brock." Blue said. His eye was twitching, but he shrugged it off and introduced both of them.
"Yeah, How are you doing Blue? And why are you so sweaty?" His eye twitched.
"It's hot, and look at yourself. Kettle much?"
"I wasn't saying that I wasn't sweaty. You're just more sweaty than I would expect." Green without warning took Blue's drink and started gulping t down. Blue eyes widen and yelled. "Hey!"
Blue tried to swipe the drink, but that didn't do much as Green simply pivoted away from his reach. He overreached and slammed his head onto the table. Reeling from the pain he covered his forehead with both of his hands.
He gave a glare that pierced the soul of those who saw it if they weren't from Pallet. Green laughed a bit. Her eyes became half-lidded with a small grin. She was the second most athletic among their trio. Red being the first.
Since there were two of them being here, Red wouldn't be far behind.
*Knock* *Knock* The three turned to the noise. If this was anyone else, that would be creepy, or disturbing. Blue's smirk returned full force and Green beamed at the person.
Red had his right hand on his forehead to block the sun and have shade. His left hand was on the glass. He smiled and waved to them. A girl with orange hair and red suspenders looked at him with a deadpan.
"Red!"
"Heh, Loser. Get in."
Red opened the door. A light jingle played when he opened the door. An-
"Why are you wet?"
"What did you do, drown?"
"I-I didn't drown. I just fell in the water."
"He almost drowned if it wasn't for me." Misty didn't stop to look at Red's indignant stare.
"Red" Green's disappointed stare made him look away. ears getting red.
"Ha!" Blue barked one out. He liked this girl.
"Y-yeah, well... You're very wet yourself."
Green did a spit take. She hid a laugh before full out cackling. Her head went back with what Red just said.
Blue blushed. He growled and glared at Red. Red challenged the glare with one of his own.
"That's pretty dirty Red. Want to continue?"
"Shut your mouth Blue. It's only dirty because your mind is dirty."
"G-guys, You're getting attention. Y-y-you need-d to Calm down pff-hahahaha!" Green kept ton repeating the conversation in her head. These people were her friends, and that was perfect.
They both stared at her before looking around the restaurant. they were getting looks from around the place. They both coughed in their hands before taking a seat.
Red dragged a chair to their table, getting one for Misty to sit in. After they made themselves comfortable, they talked. What they did before they got here.
"So, you guys are going to challenge the Gym?"
"Of course," Blue responded
"Yeah, no doubt." Red gave a confident smile at that. He got a lot stronger and was ready to deal with them. Misty was about to rain on their parade
"well, you guys shouldn't get your hopes up."
The trio of friends looked at Misty. Red tilted his head and Blue narrowed his eyes.
"What does that mean?" Blue wanted to know.
"What I mean is that the Gym Leaders aren't that strong." Misty huffed after saying that. She knew it was true.
"...How weak?" Green asked. She wanted to rest, but to say that a Gym Leader was weak? She didn't want to waste time like that.
"Like, the weakest ones in the circuit," Misty responded. She didn't look ashamed at that. Brock winced at the tone.
"Hey, cut them some slack. It wasn't their fault they were given the responsibility." Brock defended. He always kept up with the news, Their situation was similar to his.
"That doesn't excuse them for being poor Gym Leaders." Misty bit back. That causes others to be stunned. She was harsh on them.
"... Maybe I should just skip this Gym," Blue said aloud. He didn't want to waste his time either.
"Wait? You can do that!?" Red said. He looked at Blue dumbfounded.
"Yes. Of course, you can. What. You didn't know about it?"
"No. I didn't know about any of that!"
"Tch. Man, you're daft." Blue gave him a cocky grin. To think this was his rival.
"Oh yeah!? Let's battle right now!"
"I'm game."
"Enough! You guys are drawing too much attention, again. Plus, we didn't even order anything yet." Green got in the way of the two. These can get hotheaded when they see each other. It was like they were in their own world. Well, if they were, she wanted in.
"A badge is a badge, so, it might be wise to just battle them and get it."
"There are ten Gyms, we can just ignore the weak ones and go get the strong ones," Blue responded. He was gonna go with this through and through.
"I guess that's fine." Brock sighed. It couldn't be helped.
Misty turned to Red. She knew he wanted to battle the Gym Leaders and gain the badges. He had a way out to not battle the 'weakest one'. Red shook his head, his confidence brimming.
"No, I'll challenge all the Gyms, and earn all their badges." Red specifically pointed to Blue on that. It was a challenge. A challenge Blue wasn't running from.
"Then I'll do the same, I'll be faster and I'll do it efficiently." He put his forearm onto the table and leaned.
Green could only sigh. She stood up and slammed both her hands on the table. That surprised the other four and made them turned their attention to her.
"You guys better not forget me. Remember. I was the first one to get a badge. I'll blow past the both of you without a hitch." She glared at them. There was no malice, but there was a dangerous underlying tone to it. Red and Blue looked at each other before smiling and smirking.
"We wouldn't dare."
"You and Blue are my rivals. So, I'm not forgetting either of you."
Like a standoff, they looked between each other. One wanted to be a champion, then a monarch. One simply wanted to be out of the shadow of his old man, and be the best of the three. The last wanted to find her past, and defeat those that took it away.
Trainers, rivals, friends.
That is who they were.
Brock and Misty didn't move. This was between the trio. They stood like this for what seemed like ages. No one batted an eye. Some patrons left because of the tension. Others stared and watched at the three, they were taken by the energy of the three.
*growwwwl* The standoff was cut short by a sudden noise. Red started blushing before heading towards the employee at the cash register. They had been taken out of the stupor. The patrons that hadn't been apart of the group continued with their day.
Green, now out of whatever trance took over her, yelled to Red to get her something. She sat down back into her seat. It was when Blue asked her a question when she realized.
"Hey, Green, who did you travel with?" Blue asked. Red just got back with their food. For him, Misty, and Green. Sitting down and making him comfortable he wanted to know as well.
"Yeah, did you get here by yourself?"
"That's not possible stupid. To get by Mt. Moon, you have to travel in a group." Blue snarked at Red. Red's ears got red.
"W-well, I got here just fine by myself!" Red said. He immediately ignored the stare that Misty was sending him. He sensed it as she tried to drill a hole in his head with it.
"Yeah. And you're you. Green isn't so brash and doesn't take pleasure in battles as we do. Last I recall, she rarely looked excited to battle when she got the chance too. She also looked like she didn't take any pleasure when beating another kid's Pokemon. Right Green."
As Blue looked at Green. He noticed she got redder and redder after he said the last sentence.
"...No way. You were pumped to fight?"
"Really Green!?"
Green slowly brought her brown shoulder-length hair to her face. She felt the heat creeping from her neck to her face. The hair was placed to hide her embarrassed smile. She pointedly looked away.
"Y-yeah, I guess you can say that I got excited. It was a tough match." Green didn't want to explain further.
"Okayyy... So, how did you get here? Traveling through Mt. Moon with other people?"
"Yeah. That was the only way through. You say it like there's another way." Now, it was Blue that looked away. Brock also turned away at that. Suspicious.
"Well, you're right. I got to Cerulean through Mt. Moon. Like everyone else."
"Okay, but did you travel with anyone special? Like a strong trainer?" Red asked. He wanted to know if there was anyone strong that he could battle.
"Of course! I traveled with..." Green's face looked normal. It then scrunched up. She furrowed her brow. Then, her eyebrows went up and were hidden by her hair. She paled.
"IIIIIIIIIIIII forgot about that!?" Both of her hands went up to her forehead. Blue and Red looked at each other. Uh oh. They have never seen her like this.
"Green. Who did you forget." Blue leaned forward with an arm on the table. Red leaned in on his chair. Even Misty and Brock were interested. to give Green this reaction, they had to have a strong effect on her.
"IIII mayyyyybeee foooorrrrgooooott totakethemwithmehere!" Green put her hands together and bowed her head. Green was sweating.
"Well... That's not bad."
"Yeah. that's fine, we'll just meet them later. They are still in Cerulean, right. Plus, They're trainers, so they will challenge the gym. We can meet'em there." Red said. He pumped his fist into the air and smiling like a dork.
"Welllll I traveled with..."
"...Who?"
"...Sh..."
"? I can't hear you Green."
"I traveled with Ash and another girl." Green took a sip of her boba. Looking away from Red, and specifically, Blue.
Red did a spit-take. Ash, he was here!? Dang, That must mean he started his journey. Good for him.
Blue, however, didn't think like that.
"Ash... started his journey?"
"Yes, he did. He's pretty good at it too." Green responded. She was looking at him now. She knew the volatile relationship Blue had with Ash.
"And he was traveling with someone else, who wasn't there out of pity?"
"There was no pity, but... friends is a strong word." When Green said that. Blue barked out a laugh. One that made Green wince and Red glare at him. Brock and Misty squirmed. That laugh made them want to disappear.
"Blue, he's a good trainer." Green snarked. She finally got around to talking with him, and he was a nice boy. She couldn't call him a friend just yet.
"Annoying, is more like it," Blue remarked. "Besides, did you even see him battle?" Green knew he got her there.
"...No." Blue took that victory.
"Than how is he a good trainer? He's all bluster with nothing to back it up. He's hot air. He's weak." Red glare didn't get any stronger, but when his voice came out. It was a lot firmer.
"Blue, that's enough. Talking like that about someone who even isn't here is bad. It's worse coming from my friend." Blue looked at him. Blank face. Green froze as she looked at Red. She never heard that voice before.
"...what's it to you Red. You barely pay attention to him. He only comes to your house when your mom and dad invite him over." Red bristled at that.
"You're right. But that doesn't mean what you say about him makes sense either. That has nothing to do with how you treat him. I may not be friends with him, but he's someone who works hard. You may not see it, but I did. That hard work will amount to something."
Blue didn't say anything else. His eyes were calculating. Not a glare, it was too cold for Blue to be capable of.
"...You're right." Blue closed his eyes and looked up. He put his feet onto the table and leaned back. Green was surprised at that. Red wasn't. He knew there was more.
"I'll just beat that hard work down." It was Green's turn to glare. That was what he got out of this? Really? Green got up and was about to yell.
Brock was faster. "Beating someone in a battle is different, Blue." That got four confused stares at him. He elaborated.
"Battles are a way of communication. To say you want to beat them down, to say you want to crush them. That's like a warmonger. Or someone a part of Team Rocket, Blue." Red's eyes widen. Blue bristled at that.
"What!? You say I'm bad like them!?"
"No, but you could be." Blue froze when Brock said that. Brock continued, "Having a good sense of competition is great for trainers, but don't let it boil over. that isn't good for anyone."
Blue had a blank look on his face, he was derailed from his tangent. He only sighed. Looking out to the streets he said, "Okay. Well, are we going to the Gym or not?"
Misty exhaled a sigh. That was good. The tension was getting to her. She didn't want it to continue, and she knew the others didn't either.
"Let's go. The Gym isn't far from here." Misty told the group. She may not like the Leaders that much, but if it could help these three, it was worth it.
"I'll pay," Green said. She wanted them to get along. Red nodded and said thanks. Blue looked away, but not before he nodded to her. After paying, all of them picked up their stuff and left the bakery. Some tense, some relieved, and all of them determined.
"These noodles are so good! Ack-ck! Really spicy too!" Ash shoved his glass of soda to his face and started gulping. He slammed it down and sighed with a smile. Pikachu bellowed a burp before laughing. This place was good.
Staravia was in another seat eating another set of noodles. Happily chewing and picking at it. Pretty unhealthy, but another celebratory meal.
Kangaskhan, on the other hand, was eating a truckload of food. People watched and gaped at the three Pokemon. They ate and ate their way through all they could. Baby Kangaskhan munched with glee on any fruit or vegetable.
Sabrina silently ate her Udon as she carefully watched their group. They ate a lot. A lot a lot. Giovanni would understand. He wouldn't even see a dip in their funds. None what so ever.
Nope. Natta. Not a single dip.
They ate so much. How.
"Whew. I'm full." Ash set his final bowl aside as he laid his chin down on the table. A satisfied look and cheeks flushed. Pikachu laid his body on the side of Ash's face.
"So, you are." Sabrina cleaned her face with a napkin. The soup was okay. She had better. Seeing that Ash had food near his mouth, she gave him a napkin. Ash took it and wiped his entire face.
"Well, what are we going to do now?"
"Now? Well, I want to get my first badge." Ash put his arms on the table, in front of him that it covered his jaw and nose. It was a water-type Gym. He lucked out. He had the advantage.
"That's good, do you want to go there now?" Sabrina asked Ash. The faster they did, the better. If they could get Green, that would be perfect.
"Hmm, alright. Okay guys, return." Ash pointed his Pokeballs to his pokemon returning all of them. Now, there were going to be on their way. Picking up his backpack he made his way to the door.
Sabrina picked up the tab, put down a credit card that totally wasn't Giovanni's funds for Team Rocket.
"Let's be off. I know where the Gym is." Sabrina guided Ash out of the restaurant and to the streets. There they went started to travel to the Gym, and whatever awaited them there.
Misty and the group walked into the Gym aquarium. Red stood in awe at the glass that housed different kinds of fish. From Magikarp to Starmie. Corsola to Horsea. There was a wide variety to it.
The tomboy directed them to the inner stadium of the aquarium. They saw the seats and the water stage out in the middle. Some platforms were in the inside pool. It was designated as the 'battlefield'.
Lights were on the ceiling. They were in a vast array of different colors. They sparkled while lighting up the large room.
"The Gym Leaders are supposed to be here. Tch. Of course there not." Misty growled. The deep parts of her throat made her sound like a Gyarados.
Red sighed at that. This was a waste after all.
"Well, if they aren't here, then I'll just have to step in!" Misty said huffing. Though, there was a hint of a smile. But wait...
"How will you be the Gym Leader? A random stranger can't hand out badges." Red said. He heard a smack and turned behind him. Blue was rubbing his face while Green's face lit up. What did they get that he didn't?
"Are you that daft?" Blue responded instead of Misty. How is he still alive?
"What am I missing!?" Red kept on turning his eyes to his companions. He was perplexed by the way each of them looked at him.
Brock was the one to break it to him, "She technically can since she is their little sister." Red gaped at Brock. He then turned to Misty who looked at him smugly.
"You are!?"
"Yes. I thought you would figure it out."
"Well, I didn't think anyone would talk about their sisters like that." Misty quieted down at that. That earned Red a hard stare from her.
"Red..." Green wanted to scold him, but she kind of understood his position.
Misty puffed her cheeks and looked away, "You wouldn't understand what living with them is like." Red scratched his cheek and closed his eyes.
"Yeah, okay. But.-" "But nothing!" Misty cut him off. She didn't want to continue on this.
"If you don't want to try and earn a badge, you can go back to the Pokemon center an-" "I will! I will! I'm sorry!" Red slammed both of his hands together and bowed his head.
"...Alright. Well, let's get this ready." Misty then hopped on over to her side.
Red blew a sigh and went to his side. Blue and Green went to the sidelines and sat in the bleachers. Brock set aside his backpack and got ready to referee.
Misty vs. Red. For the cascade badge. Red slapped his cheeks before gazing at Misty with determination.
Misty stretched her arms and put her hands on her hips. Unlatching a Pokeball she got ready to send.
"As the challenger, Red can return his Pokemon. This battle is to be two Pokemon each. Are the contestants ready?" Brock looked at both Misty and Red. They both nodded to him and glared back at each other.
"Then the battle of Cerulean Gym vs. Red shall begin!" Brock brought down his right arm that signaled both battlers.
"Poli, get ready for battle!"
"Ready to set the stage, Staryu!"
They thrust their arms out with a high velocity. Two red and white orbs flew towards the battlefield. Both rattled open. The white light was thrown out and met the ground.
The Pokemon started forming and materializing. One an orange-yellow star with a red gem. The other, a blue with white glove-like hands. A white belly with a black swirl.
"Alright, Poli! use mud shot!" Poli, acknowledging his friend, jumped into the air and spat out mud at Staryu.
"Rapid spin, Staryu!" Heading her command, they began to spin wildly. The force of momentum redirected the mud to the pool. The water rose and obscured Misty's vision.
"Alright, Poli! get in close!"
Blue and Green were watching closely to the battle. Blue was leaning back with his left leg over his right. Green leaned forward with both hands under her chin.
"Why use a water type when he has a grass type?" Blue wondered. That seemed like a no brainer. His rival really liked making everything difficult for himself.
"Well, maybe he's saving him for later, or he has a plan," Green responded. Though she didn't sound confident in her explanation.
"...He's winging it."
"Probably. Most definitely actually." Green quipped at Blue. They both shared a smile.
"Don't let up, Staryu! Go on the offensive! Swift!" Staryu stopped spinning and pointed his red gem at Poli, who was getting closer. Energy gathered in it before they sent it at Poli at high speed.
"Poli, Bubble Beam!" Poliwhirl sprinted towards the starfish before spitting out Bubble Beam. He propelled himself upward. Misty was caught off guard. The Bubble Beam collided with the Swift.
"Now, Body Slam!" Poliwhirl slammed his body into Staryu's forcing them underwater.
"Staryu!" Misty looked underwater. She could clearly see what was going on. She watched Staryu writhe. She exhaled to calm herself. She looked at Red who caught her eyes on him.
That focus she was displaying made Red sweat. She wasn't going to hold back.
"Staryu, Rapid SpinI" Staryu, hearing the command, Span uncontrollably. Red's eyes widen as the water on the battlefield began spinning. Blue and Green were gaping at the now whirlpool that was the battlefield.
"Poli!" Red yelled out. He couldn't see Poliwhirl anywhere. His eyes darted around to try and find him. Hidden in all blue, it was impossible.
Misty, however, could. She trained herself to be able to see Pokemon from a distance underwater. She also paid attention to both Pokemon.
Paying no attention to the onlookers, she thrust her arm forward, "Alright, Staryu! Throw him out!" Before swiping it to her side.
The torrents began splashing over the boundaries making Red's and Misty's clothes wet and dripping. They both ignored it due to the show of power.
From the depths of the water, at high velocity, a blue circular Pokemon was sent into the ait as it spins wildly. Red shouted for his attention, "Poli!" There wasn't any way for Red to know if Poli heard him. All he could do was trust him.
Red inhaled before exhaling all the air in his lungs, without taking his eyes off of Poliwhirls form. He heard Misty shout a swift and Red began planning.
Red then yelled loud enough to stun everyone from what they were doing. His voice echoed and bounced off the walls of the Gym. "Poli! Right yourself and use Mud Shot!"
Poliwhirl was dizzy. He couldn't hear himself think and felt like throwing up. He wanted to let go and pretend to be knocked out. Soon, something broke him out of his thoughts. It echoed through his body. It made him shiver and wake up.
Forcing his eyes to open, he quickly scanned his surroundings to find Staryu. Finding a glow in the whirlpool, he used his momentum to blast out Mud Shot at varying degrees of accuracy.
Three shots came closing in. Staryu didn't move as its red gem glowed brighter and brighter. Two of the Mud Shots Landed near Staryu, to both of its sides. One came head-on and would have hit Staryu square in its gem.
Staryu launched his Swift, overpowering the single Mud Shot. It glided and twirled towards Poliwhirl, homing in on the now air suspended Pokemon. Red stopped that from happening. "Poli, Bubble Beam to dodge it!" Misty was stunned, she quickly stuttered her next move. "D-double edge, Staryu!"
Flinging itself towards its opponent with no regard for its well being. They came rocketing towards each other, getting faster with each second. Poliwhirl zigzagged to not hit the Swift, Poli had an idea for those stars. Red caught on to what Poli was doing, he smiled before flicking his nose with his thumb.
As the two got close enough that they couldn't pull back, Red made his move. "Substitute!" Blue gaped before barking out a laugh, Green didn't know Poli knew that move, before clapping with vigor and smiling.
Misty could only cry out. "Staryu!" Hearing her voice, Staryu could do nothing as he collided with a fake and the Swift slammed into him. Poli appeared in a cloud of white smoke and landed clumsily on a white platform.
Staryu, however, crashed into the pool and caused the water to rise near the lights.
"...Damn. Red where did you learn that?" Green yelled at him. Red pivoted to face his friend. Giving her a cheeky smile and a peace sign. He wanted to become better, and that was to use everything at his disposal.
Red crossed his arms and had a smug air around him. "I used the TM's that we had on the Pokedex's." Red then gave a challenging glare at Blue, to which he responded with a smirk. That smirk got wider as he said something.
"Well, you should really focus on the battlefield, Red." That earned him a confused stare before Brocks's voice echoed against the walls of the gym. "Both Pokemon are unable to battle. A double knockout. Send out your last Pokemon."
Red immediately looked to the battlefield and saw Poli on his back, swirls in his eyes. "Wha- how!?" Blue could only laugh at Red's density. Green sighed before explaining. "Substitute takes some of the Pokemon's stamina to use. Poli probably used all of his to use that move. Didn't you read all of the descriptions of the move?"
"Uuuh..." Red could only look away and scratch his cheek. Blue was now laughing and gasping for air. "Ha! Dumbass! whew. Hahahahaha!" Red's ears turned red as the heat started creeping up from his neck.
"Err, Return, Poli!" Red hastily brought out his Pokeball, fumbling with it, and sent Poli back into it.
Misty growled a bit before returning Staryu. She tried to calm herself but failed. Misty didn't want this to affect her, but it did and now her thoughts were becoming foggy. She thought she was controlling the fight.
Brock brought the attention back to himself. "Are both contestants ready to send out their last Pokemon?" Red and Misty nodded and brought out their second Pokemon. Misty gripped it to the point of squeezing it. Red wrapped his finger around it, giving confidence to his Pokemon.
Brock brought down his hand, and they both threw their Pokeballs. One a purple star with a red gem. It had another star on its back. The other was a bluish-green quadruped. Leaves sprouted from it's back and had a pink flower bud.
Red looked at his Ivysaur. "Are you ready?" Ivysaur looked behind him. Smiling at him, Red looked back at Misty with confidence. Misty looked at Starmie. "You never let me down, Let's go!" Starmie responded by spinning.
Misty glared at Red, this was between two trainers, two battlers vying for victory. "I'm not going to make this easy for you." Red laughed at that. That irritated Misty. "Why are you laughing?" Misty bit out. Green was confused and Blue was looking at Red blankly.
"I wouldn't have it any other way. If I am going to be the best, then I don't need anyone going easy on me. I am going to become a champion, and I am going to become a monarch. I'll beat Leon, along with every other champion."
Red's voice went up several decibels. Misty can still hear his voice reverberate in her eardrums. Red's eyes held an intensity that went beyond her and everyone else in the room. Green stared at him with eyes wide and no breath. Blue's face was blank but had a hard stare boring into the side of Red's head.
Yet, Red ignored it like it was nothing. Ivysaur roared in approval. Brock gave a knowing smile at Red. It seemed that this guy would be going far beyond what those thoughts of him.
"Are you ready Misty!" Red yelled at her. Misty, brought out of her stupor, Smirked at him. There was sweat running down the side of her face. This is where the fight changes.
2 minutes later...
Blue was looking through the glass at the Pokemon in the aquarium. After the battle the two had, Red ran out the door to heal his Pokemon. Forgot his badge on the way, too. What a dumbass.
Blue snickered at his thoughts. Green soon followed him out to make sure he didn't get lost. Brock followed after them. Misty was about to tell her the gym had a healing station themselves. They got it as a prize her sisters won.
Walking further into the deeper parts of the aquarium, and further away from the front entrance. He thought to himself. Predominately on how would he combat Misty. He was at a very bad disadvantage. He needs to ask Misty later to see if there was any interesting Pokemon in the area.
As he was thinking to himself, he didn't hear the door open. Nor did he hear the clapping of feet meeting the tiles of the gym. Nor the voices in chatter.
Misty left the backrooms, where she healed her Pokemon and was cleaning her hands and hair with a towel. She perked up when she found two people walking into the inner stadium.
One was a short, young-looking boy, with a hat with a stylized green L, segmented into two parts. A red and yellow rib for the bottom of his jacket and collar. A white and blue jacket that had short cuffed sleeves. Black shirt underneath
And the other... "Sabrina!?" Misty was gaping at the sight of the psychic gym leader. Though, the psychic didn't look surprised. She had her hand near her chin and the other holding it by the elbow.
"Yes, I'm here, what of it?" Sabrina asked. She didn't want this to go any longer. Ash decided to rain on it. "Wait... You're a gym leader!" Sabrina's eye twitched. Coughing into her hand and then turning to the 4'08" boy. "Yes, I am. How did you not know?" Ash jumped at that.
"Wha- there was nothing to say you were a gym leader!?" Ash responded. It was comical for Sabrina, who decided to milk it. Leaning forward, her arm that was near her chin went to the side of her head, pointing at it. The other went to her hip.
"You can't be this daft, Ash." The voice was condescending that made Ash's neck heat up. He stuttered as it reached his face. Though there was no maliciousness from her, as she was... smiling(?) You couldn't call it a smile. More of a grin that showed all of her teeth.
Even when his jacket was unzipped, he used it to cover his face and look away. Using both of his hands to bring the collar of his jacket to his face. Putting his face down into it.
Turning to Misty, he said quietly. "I'm here for a gym battle." Misty acknowledged the issue, nodding her head. "Alright, let me get ready." Drying off her hair, she went back into the backroom.
Ash glared back at Sabrina. "Did you really have to do that?" Ash huffed. He wouldn't be too embarrassed if it was only the two of them, but doing it in front of a stranger. That was something he didn't want to happen. Sabrina, however, didn't care.
She reveled in times like this.
Righting herself, her hand fell to her side and her grin turned to a small smile. "No, I didn't. But then again, why do we do the things that we do? Because we enjoy it." Sabrina said simply. The way she stated it was obvious to anyone hearing it. Ash grumbled at her.
Sabrina looking around, "Seems, that there is no referee. Guess I'll have to do it." Sabrina walked off to get to the referee box. Ash, now not blushing, jogged to his side of the field. Stretching to release the tension, and his jitters started festering. It rose to his chest as he continued to stare at the battlefield.
His anxiety was flowing to his arms. His sight and sense were blurring. He inhaled through his mouth, and held it for a few seconds, before exhaling all of it. He hoped it would ease everything.
It didn't.
The unease grew. He didn't know why this was happening. He was able to handle Nidoking well enough, so why? Ash couldn't come up with an answer. Looking at Sabrina. Sabrina stared back at him. She gave him a thumbs up.
A sign of approval.
Ash gave a smile back at her. Clutching his hands together, on top of his chest, and started breathing rhythmically. Taking deep breaths to let loose.
Misty left the backrooms, this time in her blue swimwear. As she walked to the battlefield, she saw Sabrina in the referee box and the trainer in his box. Seemed that they were ready, she nodded her head to Sabrina. Taking a swig from her special water bottle.
Misty throwing her towel to the side and putting her water bottle down. She unclipped a Pokeball that grew in size to normal. "I'm ready when you are." Ash looked back and did the same. "Always am."
Sabrina looked at both trainers. "Are both contestants ready? Each person will use two Pokemon each. Only the challenger will be able to switch his Pokemon." Nodded. "This battle for the cascade badge, with the gym leader Misty of Cerulean city against Ash Ketchum of Pallet Town will commence."
Misty did a double-take. Ash? So, she met the final member from Pallet.
Misty threw her first Pokeball. "Set the stage, Lapras!" Misty wanted Staryu and Starmie to rest. So, she got two others to battle.
Ash chucked his Pokeball. It went wide before slamming into one of the circular platforms. "I choose you, Pikachu!" It opened up to the electric mouse Pokemon. In which it shouted ad sparked with excitement.
Seeing this, Sabrina decided to start it now. "The battle between Pikachu and Lapras shall start, now!" And with that, the battle for the cascade badge begins.
Unbeknownst to the two battlers, One Blue Oak was watching from the entrance to the stadium.