Ch.2: Welcome to Kanto
It was a 10–hour long flight, and Ash and Greninja stepped off the plane at the Cerulean City Airport. It was early in the morning due to the time difference between Kanto and Kalos, and the first thing Ash noticed were the many people looking at Greninja.
"OK, Greninja. We need to get to Pallet Town," said Ash. "Even if I have all of you with me, I still need to get an official 'starter'."
"That's fine with me," said Greninja. "I want a formidable opponent, so get a tough one."
"Don't worry, with the proper training he'll match the rest of you in no time," said Ash.
"Ash, my boy," said an elderly voice and Ash and Greninja turned towards the source of the voice, which appeared to be none other than Professor Oak. "It has been a long time, hasn't it?"
"It sure has, Professor," said Ash as he made his way up to Oak. Greninja followed behind and eyed the new guy up. The professor noticed the fully evolved water/dark–type and had stars in his eyes.
"This must be the famous Greninja I heard about from Sycamore," guessed Oak and started to take measurements of the 'Ninja Pokémon' with a tape.
"Is this normal for this guy," Greninja asked Ash as he was starting to feel uncomfortable.
"Um, professor. Greninja is not feeling comfortable with what you're doing," said Ash.
"Sorry, Greninja. I get a little carried away sometimes," Oak sheepishly replied.
"That's OK," said Greninja. From inside, Greninja felt like hitting Oak with Aerial Ace as he allowed only Ash and Delphox to invade his personal space.
"Greninja, this is Professor Oak. He's the Kanto version of Professor Sycamore," said Ash. "Professor, this is, my practical brother, Greninja."
"I can see that he's been raised well. Is he your only Pokémon," asked Oak.
"No. Professor Sycamore extended my carry limit to 18 and I currently have 11 Pokémon," explained Ash. "It'll best if we go back to the lab so you can see them all, 'cause they take a lot of space."
"Very well, my boy. Come on, get in," said Oak as he got in his car, followed by Ash and Greninja.
Ash and Greninja were holding on for dear life because of the Professor's crazy driving, and were saying their final prayers. But because of the crazy ride, the trio arrived at the lab pretty quick, and Ash and Greninja immediately got out of the car, thanking Arceus for watching over them.
"Next time, we're taking Salamence," Greninja told Ash.
"Boys, we've got at least half an hour before the others arrive as I told them to come at 8:30a.m.," said Oak.
"In that case, can I stay out here as I need to give my Pokémon breakfast," asked Ash.
"Why of course. We can also have breakfast out here," said Professor Oak. "And I'll be glad to see what other Pokémon you've got. I'll go make us some breakfast."
"Thanks, Professor," said Ash. Oak smiled and went to make breakfast for the two of them as Ash collected his PokéBalls. "Come on out, everyone!"
One by one, Lucario, Gliscor, Nidoking, Salamence, Hydreigon, Yanmega, Houndoom, Gallade, Glaceon and Steelix all appeared, Greninja joining them. Salamence, Hydreigon and Steelix gave their battle cries which scared a flock of Pidgeys and Spearows. Glaceon didn't stay with the other for so long and went up to her 'daddy' and nuzzled her head against his leg. Ash bent down and rubbed her head.
"Guys, we're in Kanto," said Ash as all the Pokémon gathered around. "We've got 30 minutes before we leave so let's have a quick breakfast."
Ash took off his backpack and pulled out the bowls which had each of his Pokémon's names written on them. He took out the different cans of Pokémon food and poured the respective types to match the Pokémon's bowl. Ash smiled as he watched his Pokémon dig into their meals. To say, Glaceon and Yanmega were the only ones who ate with manners.
After a few minutes, the professor came out with two plates of pancakes, one for Ash and one for himself. He was both surprised and impressed when he saw Ash's Pokémon. He knew about Greninja, but he didn't expect to see the Pseudo–Legendary Salamence and Hydreigon. Gallade and Glaceon were impressive as well. The only Pokémon he was the most familiar with was Nidoking is he was a Kanto–native Pokémon. The two of them sat down and ate their breakfast with the Pokémon.
After breakfast, Ash put his Holo–Caster on as well as his Mega–Ring and gave Salamence and Lucario their respective Mega–Stones. He told Professor Oak about Mega–Evolution and the professor was surprised to learn that Venusaur, Charizard and Blastoise had Mega–Evolutions, with Charizard having two. Of course, the professor knew about Mega–Evolution from Professor Sycamore and said that he had a surprise when the new trainers arrive.
Speaking of the new trainers, it was time for them to arrive. Much to Ash's confusion, Professor Oak brought out the table with the three starters outside in the ranch. A few more minutes had passed and the three new trainers stepped outside, and Ash recognized two of them – Leaf and Gary. The third one was a boy, named Ritchie. The three trainers were shocked to see all of Ash's Pokémon, a fact which none of them know, including Gary.
"Amazing! Which of you want to join the great Gary Oak," asked Gary as he made his way to the Pokémon.
"No thanks," said Gliscor.
"I bet you want to come with me," said Gary as he ignored Gliscor and made the biggest mistake in his life – to touch Glaceon.
All the Pokémon looked worried and took a step back as they knew Glaceon hated being touched. She allowed only Ash to touch her and the Pokémon remembered the time when Sycamore accidentally touched her and she had unleashed a Blizzard and a Frost Breath at the poor professor. This time, however, was different. She was angrier than ever as she knew about Gary and summoned a Hail on the new trainer and sent multiple Shadow Balls at the arrogant trainer.
Professor Oak, Leaf and Ritchie were surprised by Glaceon's reaction as she quickly went up to Ash.
"There's something you should know, Gary. Glaceon allows only me to touch her," explained Ash.
"So these are your Pokémon, Ash," asked Leaf, trying to change the topic.
"Yup. These are Greninja, Lucario, Gliscor, Nidoking, Salamence, Hydreigon, Yanmega, Houndoom, Gallade, Glaceon and Steelix," said Ash, introducing his Pokémon. Greninja, Lucario, Gliscor and Gallade shook hands with Leaf and Ritchie while the others nodded, but Salamence and Hydreigon decided to show their power by roaring loud, which shook the ground a little, causing Ash and his other Pokémon to sweat drop.
"Show offs," muttered Steelix.
Soon, Gary recovered from the little fiasco he had with Glaceon and the professor started to speak.
"Trainers, you have gathered here today to start your journey through the world of Pokémon and as you can see from the multiple Ash has, Kanto isn't the only region. There are also Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh, Unova, Kalos and Alola," explained Oak and gave Leaf, Ritchie and Gary their respective Pokédexes. Ash didn't receive a Pokédex as he already had one. "You can choose from one of these three Pokémon, but before that, Ash is it alright if you can scan your Pokémon so we can learn more about them?"
"I don't see why not," said Ash and turned to his Pokémon. "You guys ready to be scanned?"
His Pokémon nodded and he brought his Kalos Pokédex and pointed it at Greninja.
Greninja, the 'Ninja Pokémon' and the evolved form of Frogadier. It appears and vanishes with a ninja's grace. It toys with its enemies using swift movements, while slicing them with throwing stars of sharpest water which can split metal in two. Type: Water/Dark. Gender: Male. Ability: Battle Bond. Move(s): Water Shuriken, Night Slash, Aerial Ace, Ice Beam, Double Team, Smokescreen, Extrasensory. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Camouflage (locked)
Ash then scanned his other Pokémon, and Leaf, Ritchie, Oak and Gary were surprised to learn about them.
Lucario, the 'Aura Pokémon' and the evolved form of Riolu. By catching the aura emanating from others, it can read their thoughts and movements. Type: Fighting/Steel. Gender: Male. Ability: Inner Focus. Move(s): Aura Sphere, Metal Claw, Drain Punch, Shadow Ball, Bone Rush, Psychic, Extreme Speed. Held item: Lucarionite. Egg move(s): High Jump Kick (locked)
Gliscor, the 'Fang Scorp Pokémon' and the evolved form of Gligar. Its flight is soundless. It uses its lengthy tail to carry off its prey... Then its elongated fangs do the rest. Type: Ground/Flying. Gender: Male. Ability: Hyper Cutter. Move(s): Stone Edge, X–Scissor, Giga Impact, Bulldoze, Thunder Fang, Steel Wing, Aerial Ace. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Counter (locked)
Nidoking, the 'Drill Pokémon' and the evolved form of Nidorino. Nidoking's thick tail packs enormously destructive power. With one swing, it can topple a metal transmission tower. Once this Pokémon goes on a rampage, there is no stopping it. Type: Poison/Ground. Gender: Male. Ability: Poison Point. Move(s): Sludge Bomb, Earth Power, Flamethrower, Megahorn, Shadow Ball, Brick Break, Icy Wind. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Poison Tail (unlocked)
Salamence, the 'Dragon Pokémon' and the evolved form of Shelgon. When angered, it loses all sense of itself and destroys everything around it. The destruction will continue until Salamence has tired itself out. Type: Dragon/Flying. Gender: Male. Ability: Intimidate. Move(s): Draco Meteor, Flamethrower, Zen Headbutt, Dragon Claw, Steel Wing, Giga Impact, Aqua Tail. Held item: Salamencite. Egg move(s): Hydro Pump (unlocked)
Hydreigon, the 'Brutal Pokémon' and the evolved form of Zweilous. It responds to movement by attacking. This scary, three-headed Pokémon devours everything in its path! Type: Dark/Dragon. Gender: Male. Ability: Levitate. Move(s): Dragon Pulse, Dark Pulse, Flamethrower, Flash Cannon, Tri Attack, Double Hit, Charge Beam. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Head Smash (locked)
Yanmega, the Ogre Darner Pokémon' and the evolved form of Yanma. It prefers to battle by biting apart foes' heads instantly while flying by at high speed. Type: Bug/Flying. Gender: Female. Ability: Speed Boost. Move(s): Air Slash, Struggle Bug, Solar Beam, Hypnosis, Dream Eater, Ancient Power, Sonic Boom. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Silver Wind (unlocked)
Houndoom, the 'Dark Pokémon' and the evolved form of Houndour. Long ago, people imagined its eerie howls to be the call of the grim reaper. Type: Fire/Dark. Gender: Male. Ability: Flash Fire. Move(s): Flamethrower, Dark Pulse, Solar Beam, Will–O–Wisp, Inferno, Sunny Day, Sludge Bomb. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Destiny Bond (locked)
Gallade, the 'Blade Pokémon' and the final evolved form of Ralts. Because it can sense what its foe is thinking, its attacks burst out first, fast, and fierce. Type: Psychic/Fighting. Gender: Male. Ability: Steadfast. Move(s): Focus Punch, Night Slash, Psycho Cut, Leaf Blade, Psychic, Thunder Punch, Aerial Ace. Held item: None. Egg move(s): None
Glaceon, the 'Fresh Snow Pokémon' and the evolved form of Eevee. It causes small ice crystals to form by lowering the temperature of the surrounding atmosphere. Type: Ice. Gender: Female. Ability: Snow Cloak. Move(s): Frost Breath, Blizzard, Water Pulse, Swift, Shadow Ball, Hail, Attract. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Synchronoise (locked)
Steelix, the 'Iron Snake Pokémon' and the evolved form of Onix. It chews its way through boulders with its sturdy jaws. Its eyes can see in the darkness underground. Type: Steel/Ground. Gender: Male. Ability: Rock Head. Move(s): Iron Tail, Rock Slide, Sandstorm, Fire Fang, Dig, Magnet Rise, Double–Edge. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Heavy Slam (unlocked)
Needless to say, Oak, Leaf, Ritchie and Gary were shocked by the information about Ash's Pokémon. They even got scared by the info about Gliscor, Slamence, Hydreigon, Nidoking, Yanmega and especially Houndoom as they were the most dangerous ones.
"OK. Now that's done, which Pokémon you will choose," asked Oak, referring to the three PokéBalls on the table.
"Professor, there's four of us, but three starters," said Ritchie.
"True, that's why I have a fourth Pokémon in this PokéBall," said the professor as he brought out a PokéBall with a lightning sticker on it. "I have to warn you though, this one had a bad experience with its previous trainer, so it'll take time to warm up to you."
The professor opened the PokéBall and in a flash of light came out a Pikachu. Gary being Gary went up to the electric–type and Pikachu glared at brown–haired trainer.
"Pikachu, I'm the great Gary Oak and you're gonna be my Pokémon," said Gary arrogantly which caused Pikachu to unleash a Thunder Shock at him.
Next was Ash who approached Pikachu and the 'Mouse Pokémon' looked at him.
"You want to be next," asked Pikachu as his cheeks sparkled.
"Easy, Pikachu. I just want to be friends," said Ash.
"How did you understand me," asked Pikachu surprised.
"He's an Aura Guardian in training," answered Greninja.
"Well, I guess it's better than that brown–haired jerk, but there's no way I'm going inside that PokéBall," replied Pikachu
"That's OK. You can ride on my shoulder," said Ash.
Pikachu was surprised and felt touched that this boy was willing to let him stay out of the PokéBall and jumped on Ash's shoulder much to Professor Oak's shock.
"I have no idea what you did, but it looks like Pikachu is warming up to you," said Oak and then turned his attention to the other trainers. "So, which Pokémon will you choose?"
Leaf and Ritchie chose their starters, which were Bulbasaur and Charmander, respectively. After Gary recovered, he chose the only Pokémon available – Squirtle. Leaf and Ritchie were about to leave, but Gary interrupted them.
"Hold on a second. No one is going anywhere. Not until I have a battle with Ashy–boy," said Gary and looked at Ash.
"You wanna have a battle," asked Ash and Gary nodded. "That's fine with me."
Ash then turned his attention to his Pokémon and decided to play a little with Gary by giving him the type advantage and chose Gliscor for the battle.
Professor Oak acted as the referee, while Leaf and Ritchie stood behind him with Ash's other Pokémon, watching Ash and Gary battle.
"This will be a 1–on–1 Pokémon battle between Ash and Gary. Each trainer will use one Pokémon and the battle will be over when one Pokémon on the one side is unable to continue," explained Oak. "Are the trainers ready?"
"Ready," said both Ash and Gary.
"Then let the battle begin," said Oak.
"Squirtle, start with Water Pulse," said Gary.
"Gliscor, dodge it," said Ash. Squirtle fired a Water Pulse, but Gliscor dodge it by flying up.
"Use Tackle," said Gary.
"Stop it with Bulldoze and then use Giga Impact," said Ash. Squirtle charged with Tackle, but Gliscor slammed his tail on the ground and stopped Squirtle with Bulldoze and landed his Giga Impact on the water–type.
"Squirtle, use Aqua Tail," said Gary as he knew Gliscor needed time to recharge after Giga Impact. Squrtle charged with Aqua Tail, but much his and everyone else's shock, Gliscor was nowhere to be seen. "Where the heck is Gliscor?"
"Right where he needs to be," said Ash and gave his next command. "Use Stone Edge!" Gliscor flew down and fired his rock–type move which struck Squirtle hard. "Now use X–Scissor." Gliscor charged in with X–Scissor and struck Squirtle with the bug–type move.
"Squirtle, use Icy Wind," said Gary.
"Counter it with Stone Edge," said Ash. Squirtle fired his Icy Wind, but Gliscor managed to counter it with Stone Edge.
"Use Tackle," said Gary. Squirtle charged in with Tackle and this time landed his attack on Gliscor. "Now use Water Pulse!"
"Gliscor, dodge it and use Steel Wing," said Ash. Squirtle fired a Water Pulse, but Gliscor avoided the super–effective move and struck Squirtle with Steel Wing.
"Let's use a stronger move. Bubble Beam," said Gary.
"Get out of the way, Gliscor and use Giga Impact," said Ash. Squirtle fired a Bubble Beam, which Gliscor avoided and hit Squirtle with Giga Impact, and just like before Gliscor flew away, keeping a distance between himself and Squirtle. "Use X–Scissor!" Gliscor charged in at struck Squirtle with X–Scissor.
"Squirtle, use Icy Wind," said Gary.
"Gliscor, counter it with Stone Edge and then use Thunder Fang," said Ash. Gliscor fired his Stone Edge, countering the incoming Icy Wind and then struck Squirtle hard with Thunder Fang, which was too much for the water–type Pokémon to handle and was knocked out.
"Squirtle is unable to battle. Gliscor is the winner," announced Professor Oak.
"Great job, Gliscor. I knew you could do it," said Ash as Gliscor winked at him with his tongue out.
"That was a great battle, Ash," said Leaf, congratulating her friend.
"Thanks, Leaf," said Ash.
"How could Squirtle lose to a ground–type," Gary asked himself.
"I think it has something to do with the fact that I've had Gliscor for a few years," answered Ash.
"That was a great battle," said Oak. "Now, I've got a surprise for you."
"What's the surprise, Professor," asked Ritchie.
Oak smiled and brought out several item from his pocket, which only Ash managed to recognize and gasped.
"Are those–," started Ash and the professor nodded.
"These are Mega–Rings and Mega–Stones," said Oak which confused everyone, except Ash.
"How did you get them," asked Ash.
"Well, the truth is, Professor Sycamore sent them to me. You see, I've been receiving information about Mega–Evolution so I spread a word about it throughout the region, so now even some gyms have Pokémon that can Mega–Evolve, plus all Elite Four members and Lance," explained Oak.
"What exactly is Mega–Evolution," asked Leaf.
"Mega–Evolution is when a final evolved Pokémon can go through another type of evolution. It can be achieved when trainer and Pokémon have a strong bond. In order to Mega–Evolve, most Pokémon must be holding their appropriate Mega–Stone and the trainer must have a Key Stone," explained Ash.
"Very well said, Ash," said Oak with a smile.
"Wait. You said 'most Pokémon'," said Ritchie.
"That's because there's one Pokémon that doesn't need to hold a Mega–Stone. That's the legendary Pokémon, Rayquaza," said Ash.
"That's right. So, some of the Pokémon that are capable of Mega–Evolution are the final evolutions of the three Kanto starters," said Oak and handed Leaf, Gary and Ritchie the Mega–Stones for their respective starter. Leaf received a Venusaurite, Gary – a Blastoisnite, and Ritchie – a Charizardite X. "There's one more thing you need to know. You three can carry up to six Pokémon and if you catch more than six, they'll be sent here to the lab."
"Thanks, gramps," said Gary as he ran out, with Ash, Greninja, Pikachu Leaf, Ritchie and Oak following slowly from behind.
When Ash and the others entered the lab and exited it through the front door, they were surprised to see Gary in a car with cheerleaders.
"See ya, later," said Gary as he waved goodbye and drove off.
"Is he serious," muttered Pikachu.
"I really wish Gary wasn't so arrogant all the time," said Oak disappointed by his grandson's behavior.
"Well, I'll hit the road. I need to catch some Pokémon and train them so they could be ready for the Indigo League," said Ritchie as he walked away.
"I'll also need to go. I want to fill up the Pokédex," said Leaf, but stopped for a moment and looked at Ash. "Guess I'll be seeing you, Ash. I'll be rooting for you."
"Thanks, Leaf," said Ash as he went up to her and whispered in her ear. "If you want, I can talk to Professor Sycamore to update your Pokédex."
"You'd really do that," asked Leaf surprised by her friend's offer.
"That's what friends do," said Ash.
"Thanks, Ash. I'd like that," said Leaf smiling.
"Great. Let me get my Pokémon and we can leave for Veridian City," said Ash as he brought out his PokéBalls and returned all of his Pokémon, except Greninja and Pikachu.
"Safe journey, you two," waved Oak.
"Thanks, Professor. We'll call you when we reach Veridian City," said Ash as he, Leaf and the Pokémon went off to Route 1.
As they were walking through Route 1, Ash remembered something.
"Hey, Pikachu. I forgot to scan you earlier, so could you hop down for a sec," Ash asked his starter. Along the way, they encountered multiple Ratatta and Pidgey. Route 1 wasn't that log so even with a few hours break to train, they would still make it in Veridian City before nightfall.
"Scan," questioned Pikachu.
"With my Kalos Pokédex. It gives me information about you so I could know where to start your training," explained Ash.
Pikachu nodded and hopped down on the ground and Ash pulled out his Pokédex and scanned his starter:
Pikachu, the 'Mouse Pokémon' and the evolved form of Pichu. It has small electric sacs on both its cheeks. If threatened, it loses electric charges from the sacs. Type: Electric. Gender: Male. Ability: Static. Move(s): Thunder Shock, Quick Attack, Tail Whip, Nuzzle, Focus Punch, Magnet Rise. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Volt Tackle (locked)
"That's an impressive move set, but it could use some work as most of your damaging moves are electric or normal. The first gym specializes in rock–type and we can't rely only on Focus Punch so I think Iron Tail is good starting point," said Ash and Pikachu nodded in agreement. Ash then turned his attention to Leaf. "Leaf, aren't you going to scan Bubasaur?"
"I completely forgot about that," said Leaf as she sent out her starter and scanned it:
Bulbasaur, the 'Seed Pokémon'. It carries a seed on its back right from birth. As it grows older, the seed also grows larger. Type: Grass/Poison. Gender: Male. Ability: Overgrow. Move(s): Vine Whip, Leech Seed, Tackle, Poison Powder, Venoshock, Sleep Powder. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Magical Leaf (unlocked)
"OK, I have no idea what Venoshock and Magical Leaf are," said Leaf.
"Well, Venoshock is a poison–type move that hits with double power when the target is poisoned, and Magical Leaf is a grass–type move that always hits," explained Ash.
"How did you know that," asked Leaf surprised by Ash's knowledge.
"I spent 4 years studying with Professor Sycamore so I know some things," answered Ash.
"That's good," said Leaf when she came up with an idea. "Ash, I was wondering if you could, I don't know, teach me?"
"Teach you," repeated Ash.
"Yeah. You seem to know a lot about Pokémon and want to become like you one day," said Leaf.
"Well, if you want me to teach you, then I have no problem with that. Just tell me what you need help with and I'll do my best to help out," said Ash with a smile.
"Thanks so much," said Leaf as she smiled back.
Ash then released his other Pokémon and told them to do some training. Leaf was still amazed by the power Ash's Pokémon had and saw two stones on Salamence's neck and on Lucario's left hand.
"Ash, what are those things on the dragon and the jackal," asked Leaf.
"Those are Mega–Stones," said Ash which caused Leaf to look shocked.
"So that means they can Mega–Evolve," asked Leaf.
Before Ash could say a thing, they heard a scream coming from nearby.
"Sounds like someone's in trouble. Greninja, Salamence and Houndoom with me. The rest of you stay here and make sure Leaf is safe," said Ash before running off with Greninja, Salamence and Houndoom behind him, while the others took battle stances, preparing themselves for a fight, but they failed to notice Pikachu following Ash and his three Pokémon.
When Ash, Greninja, Salamence and Houndoom arrived at the scene, and saw a girl with an orange hair being attacked by a group of Gyarados by a lake.
"Well, that's not good," said Ash and one of the Gyarados began charging a Flamethrower at the girl. "Greninja, use Water Shuriken."
Greninja threw a Water Shuriken which blocked the Flamethrower. The girl turned her attention to her savior, but so did the Gyarados. The aggressive water/flying–type charged towards Ash and his Pokémon, but then Pikachu jumped out of nowhere and unleashed a powerful Thunder Shock on Gyarados, which knocked them out and retreated back into the lake.
"Now that was an impressive electric attack," said Ash and Greninja, Salamence and Houndoom nodded, shocked by the power Pikachu had.
"By precious bike," screamed the girl, who was crawling in front of her barbecued bike and turned to Ash and his Pokémon. "You! Your Pokémon fried my bike so now I want you to pay for it."
"Hey, if wasn't for us, you would've been a Gyarados meal by now," argued Ash. "You're lucky we came just in time to save you from that Flamethrower."
"Yeah, thanks for that, but you still owe me a bike," said the girl.
"Is her bike the only thing she cares about," asked Houndoom.
"If it is, then I don't want to be around her," said Salamence.
The conversation between the Pokémon is what caused the girl to look at them as she hadn't noticed them until now.
"What Pokémon are they," the girl asked Ash.
"These are Greninja, Salamence and Houndoom, and my name is Ash," said Ash introducing himself and his Pokémon.
"My name is Misty and I want to be the best water–type trainer in the world," said Misty, introducing herself.
"Oh, trust me. There isn't a better water–type Pokémon than my Greninja," smirked Ash.
"And I should believe you, because," asked Misty offended.
"You'll have to trust me on this. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go back to my friend and the rest of my Pokémon," said Ash as he and his Pokémon started to walk away.
"Hey, where are you going," shouted Misty and walked after Ash and his Pokémon.
When they arrived at the resting spot, Leaf saw Misty walking behind Ash and raised an eyebrow.
"Who is she," asked Leaf.
"Don't ask. She was about to become Gyarados food when Pikachu saved her, but instead of thanking us, she demanded a new bike as it got a little fried," explained Ash.
"And I won't leave until you pay me up," said Misty frustruated, but her expression immediately changed when she saw Yanmega. "Ahhhh! A disgusting bug!" Misty ran away and hid behind a nearby tree.
"It looks like she doesn't like bug–types," said Ash as he came up with an idea and whispered to Yanmega, and the flying/bug–type flew away.
"Is it gone," asked Misty, peaking from the tree.
"Yup. She's not here. That is if you don't turn around," said Ash with a smirk. Misty saw his expression and slowly turned around only to see Yanmega hovering right in front of her. Misty stood still for a moment before screaming to the top of her lungs and running away.
"That's one way to get rid of someone annoying," said Leaf with a chuckle.
"Yeah, well come on. We need to get to Veridian City before nightfall," said Ash, but then he noticed Pikachu was panting heavily and went up to his starter. "Pikachu, what's wrong?"
"He's been like this after unleashing that electric attack," said Greninja.
"We need to get to the Pokémon Center in Veridian City right away," said Ash before returning all of his Pokémon except Greninja and ran off to Veridian City.
"Ash, wait up," said Leaf running after him.
Just as they got to the entrance of the city, Ash and Leaf were stopped by an Officer Jenny who told them about Pokémon thieves roaming around the city. She then saw Pikachu's condition and gave the two a quick ride to the Pokémon Center, with Greninja running surprisingly fast next to Jenny's motorcycle.
When Ash and Leaf entered the Pokémon Center, they immediately went up to Nurse Joy. Ash told her about Pikachu's condition and she took him for healing, along with the rest of his Pokémon and Leaf's Bulbasaur and after doing it, Ash went up to one of the videophones and called Professor Sycamore.
"Hello, professor," said Ash.
"Why hello, Ash. How you've been," asked Sycamore.
"I've been great. I got my starter, and Leaf and I are at Veridian City," said Ash.
"OK. I've got two questions: Which starter did you pick and who's Leaf," asked Sycamore.
"I chose Pikachu and Leaf is a friend of mine and I'll be teaching her everything I know about Pokémon," explained Ash.
"Well, I'm glad to hear that," smiled Sycamore.
"I almost forgot. You see, Leaf wants to complete the Pokédex so I was wondering if you could update her Pokédex," said Ash.
"I'll be glad to do that," said Sycamore.
"Great. But could you do me another small favor? Don't tell Professor Oak about this," said Ash.
"It's OK. I won't tell him," promised Sycamore.
Ash then called Leaf over and introduced her to Sycamore and told her that he can update her recent Pokédex. Leaf was very happy that she would be able to scan Pokémon that aren't native to Kanto and sent her Pokédex through the transporter. It took a few minutes and the updating was complete, and Leaf took her new and updated Pokédex, thanked the professor and went to sit on a couch. Ash then remembered something important.
"Professor, how is Serena," asked Ash.
"Well, she's gone training, but she should be back any minute now," said Sycamore and just as he said that, the front door of his lab opened, revealing Serena and her Pokémon. "Hey, Serena. Ash is on the phone, do you–?" Sycamore was about to say more, but Serena tackled him out of the way and saw her boyfriend on the videophone.
"Hi, Serena," said Ash with a sweat drop as he saw his girlfriend tackling Sycamore away. "How you've been?"
"Well, let's say that I really miss you," said Serena. "How about you?"
"Well, I got Pikachu as my starter, beat Gary's Squirtle with Gliscor, saved a girl, named Misty from a group of Gyarados, but her bike got fried from Pikachu's electricity, and Leaf and in are in Veridian City," said Ash.
"Misty and Leaf," asked Serena with unease when Ash told her about the two girls.
"Don't worry, Serena. It turned out, Misty has a fear of bug–types and she ran away when she saw Yanmega, and Leaf is a friend of mine from when we were kids and I'll be teaching her everything I've learnt about Pokémon, besides she's like a sister to me. Nothing more," Ash assured his girlfriend.
"I'm glad to hear that," said Serena when she realized something. "Wait. You battled Gyarados?"
"Yeah, but don't worry. Pikachu zapped them pretty good," said Ash comforting his girlfriend.
"Well, you better explain that to your mother or I will," threatened Serena playfully and laughed when she saw Ash's expression. "I'm only messing with you, but you really need to call her."
"I will," said Ash before hearing his name being called by Nurse Joy. "I gotta go. Nurse Joy is finished checking on my Pokémon."
"OK. Call back soon," said Serena.
"You can count on it," said Ash before waving her goodbye and ending the call.
But just as he was about to go to Nurse Joy, to his shock, Misty grabbed him by the collar of his jacket.
"Alright, when are you gonna pay for my bike," asked Misty angrily.
"How in the name of Arceus did you find us," asked Ash surprised by Misty's appearance.
"Don't change the subject," yelled Misty shaking Ash, but he was suddenly wrapped in a tongue and pulled away. Misty turned to the source and saw Greninja pulling Ash towards him and Leaf. "Hey, I wasn't finished talking to him, yet."
"If you lay a finger on him, I swear I'll bring Yanmega out and I know how much you love bug–types," said Leaf angrily. "We'll pay for your bike, just stop demanding about it. Is that so hard to do?"
Ash and Misty looked at her with wide eyes as they didn't know someone as gentle as Leaf could get that angry. Ash was about to say something, when suddenly the roof exploded, and a man, a woman and a Meowth jumped into the Pokémon Center.
"Who the heck are you," asked Ash.
"Prepare for trouble!"
"Make it double!"
"To protect the world from devastation!"
"To unite all people within our nation!"
"To denounce the evil of truth and love!"
"To extend our reach to the stars above!"
"Jessie!"
"James!"
"Team Rocket blasts off at the speed of light!"
"Surrender now, or prepare to fight!"
"Meowth! That's right!"
"Team Rocket? Never heard of it," said Misty.
"What? How come you don't know about us," asked Jessie.
"I'm more surprised to see a talking Meowth," said Leaf.
"I'm flattered," muttered Meowth. "Now get back so we could steal the Pokémon!"
"We won't let you do that," said Ash as Greninja took a battle stance.
"Looks like this twerp wants to fight," said Jessie.
"Then let's give him a fight," said James.
Jessie and James brought their PokéBalls and released an Ekans and a Koffing.
"Get ready, Greninja," said Ash.
"Koffing, use Tackle," said James.
"Ekans, use Poison Sting," said Jessie.
"Greninja, counter Tackle with Night Slash, and then Water Shuriken on the Poison Sting," said Ash.
Koffing charged with Tackle, but Greninja easily knocked him back with Night Slash and overpowered Poison Sting with Water Shuriken, striking Ekans directly.
"Eat my Fury Swipes," said Meowth as he extended his claws and charged with Fury Swipes.
"Greninja, use Aerial Ace," said Ash. Meowth was just about to land his Fury Swipes, but Greninja kicked him backwards with Aerial Ace. "Let's cool them off with Ice Beam."
Greninja fired his Ice Beam, trapping Team Rocket in a block of ice. Ash was about give Greninja another command, but Pikachu unleashed a Thunderbolt which struck Team Rocket and sent them blasting off through the hole in the roof.
"Now that was some electric attack," said Misty.
"What's going on here," asked Officer Jenny as she came inside the Pokémon Center.
"A group of idiots, called Team Rocket tried to steal the Pokémon, but Ash and his Pokémon blasted them off," explained Leaf.
"He saved all the injured Pokémon," said Nurse Joy. "His Greninja and Pikachu sure are powerful."
"Pikachu sure is becoming stronger," said Ash as he petted the electric–type. "First, the group of Gyarados, and now these thieves."
"I do my best," said Pikachu as he scratched his head from behind.
"Well, I'm glad that everything is alright," said Jenny and she left.
"What shall we do now," asked Leaf.
"Let's stay here for the night and tomorrow morning we'll leave for Pewter City, and to do that we'll need to go through Veridian Forest," said Ash.
"Veridian Forest? But that place is full with bugs," said Misty.
"Hey, you don't have to come you know," said Ash as he and Leaf went to Nurse Joy to rent rooms for the night.
Ash, Leaf, Misty and their Pokémon had dinner early as they wanted to go be rested for the next day. Although, Misty was still doubtful about going through Veridian Forest, because of her fear.
To be continued…
Here's the second chapter of the story. I hope you liked the battle between Ash and Gary. I just want to make one thing clear – Ash sees Leaf only as a sister and vice versa. In the next chapter, Ash and co. will go through Veridian Forest and Ash will have his first Gym Battle. The next update will be by the end of the month, so until then have a nice day.
R&R