Ch.6: Cerulean City
"Guys can't we go to Vermillion city instead?" Misty asked for what has to be the thousandth time. Ash, Leaf, Brock, Pikachu and Greninja were really starting to get annoyed and groaned.
"Misty we have to go through Cerulean to get to Vermillion city and since Cerulean has a gym it would be a total waste to just skip it like that" Ash pointed out patiently, but in a tired tone. How many times does she need to ask the same question! He was starting to consider if he should let Yanmega and Butterfree out of their PokéBalls to scare her away.
"Saffron city?"
"Through Cerulean"
"Celadon city?"
"Through Cerulean"
"Fuchsia city?"
"Through Cerulean. Misty there is no other path. If I start in Pallet then I have to go through Celadon, the only other option would be to go through route 21, which is an ocean to get to Cinnabar Island!"
"Can we turn back and go to Cinnabar Island?"
"And I thought she was annoying when she complained about bug–types," Leaf whispered to Ash as they were starting to get headache.
"Don't remind me. Let's hope she'll leave us as soon as we pay for her bike," said Ash quietly so only Leaf, Pikachu and Greninja heard him, praying he was right.
Misty was really struggling not to do something about this but like Ash explained, there was no other choice than to go to Cerulean, but she promised not to go back until she becomes a water-type pokémon master! The only option would be for Ash to finish his battle and rejoin them but then they might find out about why she can't go to Cerulean from her stupid sisters.
"Fine, I'm leaving!" Misty yelled and Ash, Leaf and Brock looked shocked, "Goodbye!" and she stormed off in another direction from them.
Ash, Leaf, Brock, Greninja and Pikachu were stunned at what just happened, but Greninja was secretly happy that she left.
"Why did she leave," asked Leaf.
"I have absolutely no idea," said Brock.
"I still haven't paid for her bike so I'm sure she'll be back," said Ash and Greninja felt like his heart shattered while Leaf and Pikachu were crying and Brock nodded.
"Well, let's get to Cerulean and I think you two should worry about your Gym Battle," said Brock and Ash and Leaf nodded. "Did you decide which Pokémon you're going to use?"
"I think I'll use Beedrill and Bulbasaur as they have more experience in battles," said Leaf.
"That's not a bad idea, Leaf, but you're forgetting one small detail. Brock said that some Gym Leaders have Pokémon that can Mega–Evolve and the Cerulean Gym is one of them," said Ash. "Let me think a little. The Cerulean Gym specializes in water–types. There're a lot of water–types in Kanto, but only 3 of them are capable of Mega–Evolving, being Blastoise, Gyarados and Slowbro. If it's Slowbro, you'll be in trouble 'cause psychic–types are strong against poison–types."
"You've got a point. What should I do," asked Leaf.
"Don't worry. Bulbasaur's and Beedrill's grass and bug–type attacks will still do a lot of damage, but I suggest you do some training," said Ash.
"Thanks for the advice, Ash. I'd be lost without you," said Leaf with a smile.
"No problem. Glad to help," said Ash.
"But what Pokémon are you going to use," asked Leaf.
"Pikachu for sure and probably Lucario," said Ash.
"Sounds good to me. Come on, let's go," said Brock.
As they got to Cerulean City, they began to get used to the peace and quiet thanks to Misty's absence. However the place was far from the norm with a crowd of people surrounding a place and police cars parked up in front of it.
"Hey what happened there?" Leaf asked.
"Let's go take a look" Ash said and the duo walked over to the crowd. Brock asked a random person next to them what happened here and apparently there was a burglary in that building.
"Burglars," Ash said, "This isn't a bank or anyplace special. Why would someone rob it?" he said to himself and Officer Jenny heard them and went right up to them with a steely look in her eyes.
"And just what do you know about the crime?" she asked Ash, Leaf and Brock. A random guy just backed away and tried to avoid Jenny.
"We're just innocent bystanders," Brock said a bit nervously but that just lit up a fire in Jenny's eyes.
"Innocent bystanders? How many times have I heard that before" Jenny said in an accusatory tone, "Well the book always says the criminals always return to the scene of the crime! Just what do you have to say for yourselves?"
"You actually have no idea who did this, right," asked Leaf with her arms crossed.
"We just arrived in the city. Brock is the former Gym Leader of the Pewter Gym and every Gym Leader is checked thoroughly by the Pokémon League, and Leaf and I started our journey a few days ago. I'm not coming even from Kanto. I'm from the Kalos Region," said Ash and showed his PokéDex ID.
Jenny looked flustered and wanted to snap at the kid but it didn't change the fact that is she does try to arrest this kid, she's out of a job, "Hehe, I'm sorry" she said and Ash accepted the apology.
"Well ma'am now that this is cleared up I was wondering if I could interest you in dinner tonight" Brock said and caught Ash by surprise, she just tried to arrest them!
"I'm sorry but I'm on duty and by the time I'm done it will be way past your bedtime," she said while Brock just groaned in disappointment, "Either way, this case is a strange one and even I'm not sure when I can solve it".
"What's so strange about it?" Ash inquired.
"The burglars didn't take any money," Jenny said. "Apparently all that was missing is a giant vacuum cleaner, a hose and two fossils from what the owner of the place told me."
"I can understand the fossils, but why would anyone steal a vacuum cleaner and a hose," asked Leaf.
"That's the question, isn't it?" Jenny said, "But I have a case to crack and playing 20 questions isn't going to solve it. All right everybody, clear out!" she said to the crowd and Ash and Brock left and were pondering on this mystery.
"Well, are you two going to the Gym now," Brock asked Ash and Leaf.
"Yup. The sooner the better," said Ash.
"And when we get our badges, we might Officer Jenny in finding those buglers," said Leaf.
They reached an intersection and Brock decided to pipe up, "Guys, I have some stuff to do, good luck for your battle", he said. "I'll see you later."
"Thanks, Brock," nodded Ash, and he and Leaf continued to the Gym.
"Do you know what stuff he was talking about," asked Leaf.
"No, but that's his business." answered Ash.
"I guess you're right." said Leaf.
"Let's focus on our Gym Battles." said Ash and Leaf nodded in agreement.
After a few more minutes of walking, they finally arrived.
"And here's the Gym," said Ash and went inside, Leaf following him. When they entered, they saw the place looked like a performance theatre and a large crowd of people were sitting down for a show.
"Is this really the Gym," asked Pikachu.
"It looks like a circus," said Greninja.
"Are you sure this is the right place," Leaf asked Ash.
"Yeah, the Holo–Caster says this the Gym," answered Ash. "Let's just take a seat and ask the people who own this place where the Gym is. Maybe it's been moved."
"We came here to battle, not watch a circus show," muttered Greninja as they took a seat in the crowd.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome the stars of our show. The sensational synchronized cerulean city sisters!" an announcer said on a microphone.
As they sat down the spotlight shone on the high dive and three women in swimsuits were seen and the crowd started to cheer wildly as they dived down into the pool and made a good landing. Then they started to dance and twirl in the pool. Ash and Leaf were confused at why they were doing ballet in a circus and Greninja had no clue either but Ash could at least be sure this wasn't a circus and Greninja reluctantly agreed while Pikachu started to look interested in the show.
"They don't look so bad," said Leaf quietly so only Ash and his Pokémon heard her.
"Meh, Serena dances better than them" Ash said and Greninja nodded while Pikachu and Leaf were transfixed by the show.
The crowd continued to cheer madly at the act while Ash and Greninja decided to disengage their brains. The show was really starting to lose their attention.
"Let's just wait for the show to finish and go backstage and ask the people running this place where the gym is," Ash said and Greninja and Leaf agreed while Pikachu was still watching the ballet.
After that dance was finally over Ash, Leaf, Pikachu and Greninja snuck through the crowd and went down a staircase with a sign saying backstage.
The group heard laughter and voices coming from the corridor and the three sisters from the show came out of the corridor chatting amongst themselves.
"Excuse me…" started Ash.
"If you want interviews talk to our manager," said one of them.
"We're not here…" Ash tried again, but was cut off.
"Sorry, no more autographs," said another one.
"We're looking for the Cerulean Gym Leader," shouted Leaf.
"Well, look no further," one of them said.
"We're the world famous sensational sisters and the Cerulean city gym leaders," they said in unison and Ash finally felt like he was getting somewhere with these people. He never heard of any world famous swimming ballet in Cerulean.
"Then what was that show all about," asked Leaf.
"That's just a hobby and for the fans that love it," one sister said and other said, "We pool all our talents to make a big splash" and gave the weirdest giggle at that lame joke.
"That's gotta be the stupidest joke I've ever heard," said Greninja while Ash, Leaf and Pikachu looked very uncomfortable.
"Ash, why don't you go first," asked Leaf and Ash nodded.
"I challenge the Cerulean City Gym Leader to a battle," said Ash while they stood in front of the pool on the stage.
"Yeah, about that, our Pokémon are tired from the show and we don't have other Pokémon," one sister said, and Ash, Greinja and Leaf fell down.
"You can't be serious," said Ash.
"Look, just take the badge," said Daisy, trying to give Ash and Leaf a badge.
"STOP RIGHT THERE," shouted a voice.
They turned around to see an irate Misty. Scratch that she was really angry and Greninja was inwardly crying at the pain in his ears.
"If you refuse to battle him, then I will," said Misty. "After all, I'm the forth sensational sister and a Gym Leader. Besides, Ash is expecting a Mega–Evolution battle and you three don't have a Pokémon that's capable of Mega–Evolution."
"If you really want to battle, fine," said Violet. "I'll act as the referee."
"You ready for a battle, Ash," Misty asked her friend, who got over his shock and nodded.
"Good luck, Ash," said Leaf.
"Thanks, Leaf," said Ash.
Ash, Pikachu and Greninja stood on a floating board on a large swimming pool on one side of the pool and Misty stood on a board on the opposite side.
"Get ready, Ash, 'cause I won't back down," said Misty.
"That makes two of us," said Ash.
"This will be a 2 – on – 2 Pokémon battle between Ash, the challenger, and Misty, the Gym Leader. Each side will use 2 Pokémon and the battle will be over when all 2 Pokémon on one side are unable to continue. Are the trainers ready," said Violet.
"Ready," said Ash and Misty.
"Bring out your first Pokémon," said Violet.
"Starmie, let's go," said Misty as she brought out her water/psychic–type.
"So it's a Starmie," said Ash and scanned Starmie with his PokéDex.
Starmie, the 'Mysterious Pokémon' and the evolved form of Staryu. Its shining core is thought to receive and transmit enigmatic signals. It has been known to cause headaches in those who approach it. Type: Water/Psychic.
"Well, in that case. Pikachu, I choose you," said Ash.
"Finally some action," said Pikachu happily.
"Let the battle begin," announced Violet.
"Starmie, start up with Swift," said Misty.
"Pikachu, dodge it with Quick Attack and hop on top of Starmie," said Ash.
Starmie fired its Swift, but Pikachu dodged it with Quick Attack and hopped on Starmie, much to Misty's confusion. The orange–haired girl then saw what Ash was doing as Starmie's Swift followed Pikachu, who was on top of her Pokémon.
"Starmie, shake Pikachu off of you," said Misty.
"Pikachu, use Nuzzle to prevent Starmie from moving," said Ash.
Starmie tried to shake Pikachu off, but the electric mouse hit it with Nuzzle, paralyzing it.
"Now get out of there," shouted Ash.
Pikachu saw the Swift coming closer and got out of the way just in time and Starmie got hit by its own attack.
"That was clever, Ash, but the battle's not over yet," said Misty. "Starmie, use Recover!"
"Pikachu, use Tail Whip and then Focus Punch," said Ash.
Starmie regained some health back, but Pikachu lowered its defense and landed a picture perfect Focus Punch.
"Hang in there, Starmie. Use Water Pulse," said Misty.
"Dodge it, Pikachu and then use Quick Attack, followed by Thunderbolt," said Ash.
Pikachu dodged Water Pulse and landed a direct hit with Quick Attack, followed by Thunderbolt, causing major damage to Starmie.
"Pikachu, use Iron Tail and then finish it with your best Focus Punch," said Ash.
"Starmie, use Recover and then Psyshock," said Misty.
Pikachu charged with Iron Tail as Starmie healed itself and landed its Iron Tail, but got hit by Psyshock before he could land Focus Punch.
"Are you okay, Pikachu," Ash asked his starter and Pikachu nodded. "Perfect, use Tail Whip and then Quick Attack."
"Starmie, use Recover and then Signal Beam," said Misty.
Pikachu lowered Starmie's defense even more as the 'Mysterious Pokémon' regained more health. Starmie was then about to fire its Signal Beam, but the paralysis kicked in and got hit by Quick Attack.
"Pikachu, let's finish this with Thunderbolt," said Ash.
Piakchu fired his Thunderbolt, which struck Starmie with a direct hit, knocking it out.
"Starmie is unable to battle. Pikachu is the winner," announced Violet.
"Starmie, return. You deserve a long rest," said Misty as she returned her fallen Pokémon to its PokéBall.
"Pikachu, take a rest," said Ash and Pikachu jumped back on the platform where Ash and Greninja were.
"Ash, get ready, 'cause here comes my strongest Pokémon. Gyarados, let's go," said Misty as she brought the 'Atrocious Pokémon' out.
"If she's using Gyarados, then I'll use this. Lucario, I choose you," said Ash as he brought his fighting/steel–type out. "You ready, Lucario?"
"You bet I'm," said Lucario and stared at his opponent.
"Lucario, start up with Shadow Ball," said Ash.
"Gyarados, dodge it and use Dragon Rage," said Misty.
Lucario fired his Shadow Ball, which Gyarados managed to dodge and avoided Gyarados' Dragon Rage.
"Gyarados, use Flamethrower," said Misty.
"Lucario, send it back with Psychic," said Ash.
Gyarados fired its Flamethrower, but Lucario used his Psychic to send the fire–type move back at Gyarados, who was caught off guard and got hit by Flamethrower.
"Lucario, use Shadow Ball," said Ash. Lucario fired his ghost–type move, which struck Gyarados, lowering its special defense.
"Hang in there, Gyarados," said Misty. "Use Hydro Pump!"
"Lucario, protect yourself with Metal Claw," said Ash.
Gyarados fired his Hydro Pump, but Lucario blocked the attack with his Metal Claw.
"Your Pokémon sure are strong, Ash, but it's time to take this to a new level," said Misty and she reveals a Key Stone on her hairband, triggering the Mega–Evolution of her Gyarados, turning it into Mega–Gyarados.
"Now we're talkin'," said Ash as he tapped the Key Stone on his right fingerless glove, triggering Lucario's Mega–Evolution, turning him into Mega–Lucario.
"So this is Mega–Evolution," muttered Leaf.
"Gyarados, use Aqua Tail," said Misty.
"Lucario, dodge itand then use Bone Rush," said Ash.
Mega–Gyarados charged with Aqua Tail, but Mega–Lucario dodged the attacks and struck the water/dark–type with Bone Rush.
"Let's confuse them, Lucario. Use rapid fire Shadow Ball," said Ash.
"Gyarados, try to dodge them and then use Flamethrower," said Misty.
Mega–Lucario fired multiple Shadow Balls, some of which struck Mega–Gyarados, but the Mega–Evolved 'Atrocious Pokémon' barely felt a thing and fired its Flamethrower, which struck Mega–Lucario, dealing major damage.
"Are you okay, Lucario," Ash asked and Lucario nodded.
"Yeah, I've been hit harder," replied Lucario.
"Gyarados, use Crunch," said Misty.
"Lucario, meet it head on with Drain Punch," said Ash, much to everyone's shock.
Mega–Gyarados and Mega–Lucario charged towards each other with their respective moves and Mega–Lucario overpowered Mega–Gyarados' Crunch with Drain Punch and restored some of his health.
"Stay strong, Gyarados and use Rain Dance, followed by Hydro Pump," said Misty.
"Lucario, Hydro Pump is gonna be more powerful in the rain so use Aura Sphere," said Ash. Mega–Gyarados summoned its Rain Dance and then used Hydro Pump, which was countered by Aura Sphere. "Now use Drain Punch!"
Mega–Lucario charged with Drain Punch and struck Mega–Gyarados, restoring more health.
"Gyarados, use Dragon Rage," said Misty.
"Send it back with Psychic," said Ash.
Mega – Gyarados fired its Dragon Rage, but Mega–Lucario used Psychic and send the attack back, once again hitting Mega–Gyarados with its own move.
"Gyarados, use Aqua Tail," said Misty.
"Lucario, dodge it and use Bone Rush," said Ash. Mega–Lucario dodged Mega–Gyarados' Aqua Tail and struck the water/dark–type with Bone Rush. "Let's finish this with full power Aura Sphere!"
"Gyarados, dodge it, quick," said Misty desperately.
Mega–Lucario fired his best Aura Sphere, which Mega–Gyarados failed to dodge and was hit by the powerful fighting–type move, reverting back to normal, knocked out.
"Gyarados is unable to battle! Lucario is the winner," announced Violet. "The victory goes to the challenger, Ash!"
Misty stood there in shock. She knew Ash's Pokémon were strong, but not that strong.
We did it, Lucario! We won," said Ash as Lucario reverted back to normal and the two hugged as they cheered.
"That felt great," said Lucario happily.
"Ash, that was amazing," said Leaf as she approached her friend and gave him a hug, which he returned.
"Thanks, Leaf," said Ash.
"Ash, I must say that was impressive victory," said Misty as she made her way to Ash and Leaf. "Here's the proof that you beat me, the Cascade Badge." Misty handed him the badge and Ash celebrated with his Pokémon.
"Your Lucario sure is awesome," said Leaf.
"Thanks, Leaf, but now, I believe it's your turn to battle," said Ash.
"Do you think I can beat Mega–Gyarados," Leaf asked her friend with worry.
"Don't worry about it, Leaf. I've actually got two other Pokémon that I use against starting trainers," said Misty and Leaf calmed down a bit.
"Do you think I can win," asked Leaf.
"I don't think you can, Leaf. I know you can. You've just got to believe in yourself and your Pokémon. You've been training with Bulbasaur and Beedrill pretty hard for this. You'll do great," said Ash and Pikachu, Greninja and Lucario nodded.
"Thanks for believing in me, Ash. It means a lot," Leaf smiled at him.
"Of course. You're like a sister to me and I'll do anything to make you feel better," said Ash.
Leaf smiled happily when Ash said he saw her as a sister and gave him a tight hug, which he happily returned.
"That's so sweet," said Daisy as Lily gave her a tissue to wipe out her tears of happiness.
I'm ready for our battle, Misty," said Leaf as she broke from the hug.
"Glad to hear it," said Misty.
After a minute or two, everyone was standing in their respective places, but this time, Daisy would be the referee.
"This will be a 2–on–2 Pokémon Battle. Each trainer will use 2 Pokémon and the battle will be over when all 2 Pokémon onn one side are unable to continue," explained Daisy. "Are the trainers ready?"
"Yup," said both Leaf and Misty.
"Bring out your first Pokémon," said Daisy.
"Goldeen, let's go," said Misty as she brought out the 'Goldfish Pokémon'.
"I can do it," muttered Leaf to herself before making her choice. "Beedrill, I choose you!"
"Let the battle begin," shouted Daisy.
"Goldeen, start up with Icy Wind," said Misty.
"Dodge it, Beedrill and use String Shot followed by Pin Missile," said Leaf.
Goldeen fired its Icy Wind, but Beedrill avoided the attack and got wrapped in its String Shot and then hit by multiple Pin Missiles.
"Beedrill, use Focus Energy and then use Harden," said Leaf.
"Goldeen, use Horn Attack," said Misty.
Beedrill used Focus Energy and then raised its defense with Harden just as Goldeen hit it with Horn Attack.
"Goldeen, use Water Pulse," said Misty.
"Beedrill, dodge it and use Toxic Spikes," said Leaf.
Goldeen launched its Water Pulse, but Beedrill dodged it at the last second and spread Toxic Spikes around Misty's Pokémon's half of the arena.
"That was a pretty good move. Misty's next Pokémon will immediately get poisoned," said Greninja and Ash nodded.
"And Goldeen doesn't look in good shape at all," said Ash.
"Goldeen, use Aqua Ring and then use Supersonic," said Misty.
"Beedrill, we've got to stop them. Use Twineedle," said Leaf.
Goldeen surrounded itself with blue rings to restore some health, but just as it was about to fire Supersonic it got hit by Beedrill's Twineedle, which poisoned it.
"Hang in there, Goldeen. Use Water Pulse," said Misty desperately.
"Beedrill, put everything into this move. Use your best Aerial Ace," said Leaf.
Beedrill charged with its Aerial Ace, spun over the incoming Water Pulse, and struck Goldeen directly, knocking it out.
"Goldeen is unable to battle. Beedrill is the winner," announced Daisy.
"You were amazing, Beedrill. Now return and take a rest," said Leaf as returned her bug/poison–type.
"Goldeen, return. You did your best," said Misty as she returned her defeated Pokémon and looked at Leaf. "You're pretty good, Leaf, but the battle is far from over."
"I know," said Leaf.
"Staryu, let's go," said Misty as brought out the 'Star Shape Pokémon', but as soon as it emerged it got poisoned by the Toxic Spikes.
"I'm counting on you. Bulbasaur, I choose you," said Leaf as she brought out her starter.
"Staryu, use Swift," said Misty.
"Swift is a move that always hits, so we've got to counter it. Bulbasaur, use Magical Leaf," said Leaf as Ash looked impressed by Leaf's knowledge.
Staryu fired its Swift, but was countered by Bulbasaur's Magical Leaf.
"Bulbasaur, use Tackle," said Leaf.
"Staryu, use Psywave," said Misty.
Bulbasaur charged with Tackle, but got hit by Staryu's Psywave, dealing major damage.
"Staryu knows psychic–type moves," said Leaf, shocked.
"Leaf, Staryu is Starmie's pre–evolved form, so it does make sense to know psychic attacks," said Ash from the bleachers.
"Ash is right. I've gotta be careful. I can't let Bulbasaur and the others down. Beedrill is also part poison–type and he must be tired after his battle with Goldeen," Leaf thought to herself.
"Staryu, use Psywave once more," said Misty.
"Bulbasaur, dodge it and use Vine Whip," said Leaf.
Staryu fired another Psywave, but Bulbasaur dodge it and struck Staryu with Vine Whip.
"Bulbasaur, use Venoshock," said Leaf.
"Staryu, dodge it and use Recover, and then use Water Pulse," said Misty.
Bulbasaur fired his Venoshock, but Staryu avoided the attack and regained some health by using Recover, and then fired its Water Pulse, which struck Bulbasaur directly.
"Hang in there, Bulbasaur. You've got to hold on," said Leaf desperately.
"I'm afraid it's all over," smirked Misty, but then looked in shock as Bulbasaur glowed white. "What's going on?"
"Could it be," muttered Leaf.
"Bulbasaur's evolving," said Ash.
When the white light died down, in Bulbasaur's place now stood Ivysaur.
"Bulbasaur evolved," said Violet in shock.
"That's so cool," said Leaf.
"Staryu, Ivysaur will be a bigger challenge so let's give it our best," said Misty. "Use Swift!"
"Counter it with Magical Leaf," said Leaf.
Starmie fired its Swift, but was overpowered by Magical Leaf and got hit by the grass–type attack.
"Let's finish this, Ivysaur. Use your best Venoshsock," said Leaf.
"Staryu, dodge it," said Misty, but it was too late as her Pokémon got directly hit by the poison–type, knocking it out.
"Staryu is unable to battle. Ivysaur is the winner," announced Daisy. "The victory goes to the challenger, Leaf!"
"We did it, Ivysaur! We really won," said Leaf as she hugged her starter.
"Congratulations, Leaf! That was a great battle," said Ash as he approached her.
"Thanks, Ash," said Leaf as they shared a hug.
"That was an amazing battle, Leaf. Here's the proof that you beat me, the Cascade Badge," said Misty as she presented Leaf with the badge.
"Thanks, Misty," Leaf thanked her and then the doors opened.
"Hello," called a familiar voice and the trio turned their attention and saw Brock standing at the doorway.
"Brock, over here," Ash called over his friend.
"Hey, guys. How did it go," asked Brock.
"Check it out," said Ash as he and Leaf showed him their badges.
"That's great. The two of you are one step closer to entering the Indigo League," said Brock with a smile.
"They sure are strong," said Misty as she made herself known to Brock, who looked surprised to see her.
"Misty, what are you doing here," asked Brock.
"She's one of the Sensational Sisters as well as one of the Gym Leaders," answered Ash.
"Really? I didn't expect that," said Brock.
"Expect the unexpected," said Misty.
Then a loud crash was heard and the same stupid chant came.
"Prepare for Trouble"
"And make it double"
"To protect the world from devastation"
"To unite all people's within our nation"
"To denounce the evils' of truth and love"
"To extend our reach to the stars above"
"Jessie" "James"
"Team rocket, blast off at the speed of light"
"Surrender now and or prepare to fight"
"Meowth, that's right"
"Who the heck are you," asked Lily.
"They're Team Rocket," said Misty.
"A bunch of idiots, who are a real pain in the neck," added Leaf.
"What are you doing here," Ash asked the evil trio.
"We're here to steal the water–type Pokémon. We already got these two fossils, but it's not enough," answered Jessie.
"I should've known it was you three who stole those fossils," said Ash angrily.
"You always cause people trouble," said Leaf.
"That's what we're good at," said James.
"Now, if you don't mind, we've Pokémon to steal," said Meowth.
"I've got a better idea. Greninja, use Water Shuriken," said Ash.
Greninja fired two shuriken at Team Rocket which struck Jessie and James, which caused them to lose a hold of the fossils. Leaf and Brock reacted fast enough and caught the fossils before they could hit the ground.
"Hey, we stole those fossils fair and square," said Meowth.
"There's nothing fair about stealing," replied Brock.
"Ivysaur, use Venoshock," said Leaf.
"Pikachu, give 'em a taste of your Thunderbolt," said Ash.
Pikachu and Ivysaur fired their respective attacks, which struck the evil trio, sending them blasting of.
"Thanks for saving our Pokémon," said Violet.
"You're welcome. Well, thanks for the badges, but we've got to return these fossils to their owners," said Leaf.
"She's right," said Ash. "Well, see ya.
"Hey, guys, wait up," said Misty as she followed Ash, Leaf and Brock.
After healing up their Pokémon, the gang went to the owners of the fossils, but the men told Leaf and Brock to keep them as they're the once who saved the fossils. Leaf and Brock hesitated, but accepted the fossils, with Leaf getting the Dome Fossil, and Brock getting the Helix Fossil. It was late in the afternoon and they were on the road out of Cerulean City.
"So Ash where are we headed to now?" Brock asked.
"Hmm...We need to go to Vermillion city. Serena is nearly 10 and she said she would be sailing to Kanto since she doesn't like planes so that's where we're headed" Ash said with some thought.
He then pulled out his holo-caster and opened the map and highlighted a route.
"Here, this path is off the road but I think we can make it to Vermillion in good time if we take this one" Ash said and showed it to Leaf, Brock and Misty.
"Why do we have to go through so many forests," asked Misty.
"So we can find more Pokémon," said Ash.
"And there're probably a lot of bug–types," said Leaf.
"B–bugs," stammered Misty.
"Actually, these forest mostly have grass–types, not bug," said Brock and Misty sighed in relieve.
"Let's get movin', guys," said Ash excitedly. "I can't wait to see Serena." He ran down the road and Leaf, Brock and Misty ran after him.
After camping and resting up for the night, Ash and co. got off to an early morning start and headed out to Vermillion City with only a few stops along the way. They travelled for a few days and nothing of any real importance happened. Ash and Leaf battled a few trainers that they came across, and Ash only battled them with his Kanto Pokémon as using his Kalos ones was just unfair and a waste as they don't need it but his Kanto ones do need some fighting experience.
Ash just beat the crud out of a trainer who challenged him with a Rattata that had to be at level 4 at the best. Pidgeotto sighed that she never got any good battles these days while Ash did his best to reassure her that a good one will come someday, just maybe not today. The trainer said something about a trainer named AJ who was training savage Pokémon and never lost a single battle and was according to him, insanely strong. Well, insanely strong opponents were Ash's calling so they drifted off the path to see this AJ.
They came across what has to be a circus from the striped ceiling in bright colours and in front of it is a big signboard saying "AJ's Gym Undefeated Wins: 98 Losses: 0 Note: Gym is not sanctioned by the Pokémon League".
"If this isn't a circus, I'm a Magicarp," said Greninja.
"Who counts the number of times they won," Ash said skeptically. "It's not like you learn much from winning all the time, losing can teach you way more". Brock was impressed that all the wins didn't get to Ash's head and his mature way of thinking.
"I wouldn't be surprise if he's turns out to be some selfish and overconfident jerk," muttered Leaf.
"Well, well, well. Here are victims numbers 99 and 100," a snide voice said.
A person came from the side and Ash could tell this guy had an ego to rival Gary and that is saying something.
"I assume you are AJ," he said coolly. "If you are then I challenge you to a Pokémon battle".
"I've got a better idea. I'll battle both of you at the same time," said AJ as he pointed at Ash and Leaf. "That'll make my victory much sweeter. Of course, I'll use 2 Pokémon."
"What do you say, Leaf? You ready to teach him a lesson," Ash asked his "sister".
"You bet I am," said Leaf confidently.
"I'm glad that you accept, but there's one last thing I need to mention. When I win, you'll have to come with me as my girlfriend," said AJ with a smirk as he gestured to Leaf, much the group's shock.
"WHAT!? I'll never be your girlfriend," exclaimed Leaf angrily.
"You don't stand a chance against me and my sister," added Ash.
"We'll see about that," smirked AJ. "Get ready to lose." AJ mocked while Ash and Leaf got to the other side of the field. He then took out a whip and cracked it in front of Ash who instinctively stepped back and Greninja caught the whip in his hand and sliced it with a Night Slash.
"Hey, I was gonna use that on her," said AJ as he pointed at Leaf, who glared at him, but deep down was scared to death, and Ash was able to see it in her and grabbed her arm.
"It's going to be okay, Leaf. He's not gonna hurt you," said Ash comfortingly. "We've just got to beat him. Nothing too big."
"I know, Ash. Thanks for being here for me," said Leaf with a smile.
"That's what brothers do," said Ash and they shared a quick hug.
"Are you two ready to lose," asked AJ impatiently.
"We're here for a Pokémon battle not a brawl. Either battle Ash and Leaf or we will leave," said Brock.
"And who do you think you are," AJ said, turning on Brock and Misty.
"I'm Brock, former Pewter City Gym Leader," he said and Misty piped up as well. "I'm Misty, one of the Cerulean city gym leaders." And AJ sneered at the two of them.
"Oh, those loser gyms. I call them failure city and wimpsville," he snarled at the two of them and the two of them started to get angry at that.
"Ash, Leaf, you two better pound this creep into the ground," Misty said while Brock nodded to that. Ash and Leaf sighed and said yes.
"Enough talk, let's battle!" Ash said.
"Sandshrew and Beedrill, come on out," said AJ, and Sandshrew and Beedrill materialized.
"Pidgeotto, I choose you," said Ash and Pidgeotto materialized.
"Nidoran, I choose you," said Leaf and her female Nidoran materialized.
"This'll be easy," said AJ mockingly.
"Sandshrew, use Swift," said AJ.
"Pidgeotto, use Gust to send it back," said Ash.
Sandshrew fired its Swift, but Pidgeotto flapped her wings and send the attack back at Sandshrew and Beedrill.
"Beedrill, use Sludge Bomb," said AJ.
"Pidgeotto, dodge it with Quick Attack," said Ash.
"Nidoran, use Ice Beam on Sandshrew," said Leaf.
"Beedrill fired its Sludge Bomb, but Pidgeotto dodged it with Quick Attack and Nidoran struck Sandshrew with a super–effective Ice Beam.
"Pidgeotto, use Steel Wing on Sandshrew," said Ash. Pidgeotto charged with Steel Wing and struck Sandshrew.
"Beedrill, use Acrobatics on Nidoran," said AJ. Beedrill charged at Nidoran with the flying–type move and hit the female poison–type.
"Sandshrew, use Bulldoze on Nidoran," said AJ.
"Nidoran, get out of there," said Leaf desperately.
"Pidgeotto, get Nidoran on your back," said Ash.
Sandshrew shook the ground, but Pidgeotto managed to lift Nidoran in the air just in time before she could get hit by Bulldoze.
"You won't get away. Sandshrew, use Rollout on Pidgeotto," said AJ. Sandshrew cured itself and charged with Rollout, and struck Pidgeotto, 'causing her to lose balance and fall down along with Nidoran.
"Beedrill, use X–Scissor on Nidoran," said AJ. Beedrill charged in with the bug–type move and struck Nidoran directly.
"Nidoran, you need to get up, please," pleaded Leaf.
"Beedrill, use Sludge Bomb and finish Nidoran off," said AJ.
"Nidoran, you've got to dodge it," said Leaf.
"There's no time. Pidgeotto, protect Nidoran with Steel Wing," said Ash.
Beedrill fired its Sludge Bomb at Nidoran, but Pidgeotto protected the fallen poison–type with Steel Wing.
"Come on, Nidoran. You can do it. I believe in you," said Leaf pleadingly.
"So pathetic," mocked AJ.
"Pidgeotto, use continuous Gust to blow away any incoming attacks," said Ash and Pidgeotto rapidly flapped her wings, keeping Sandshrew and Beedrill from using any attacks.
"Please, Nidoran! Never give up 'til it's over," shouted Leaf.
Miraculously, Nidoran started to move and glared at Sandshrew and Beedrill before glowing white, much to everyone's shock.
"What's going on," asked AJ.
"Could that be," said Leaf.
"Nidoran is evolving," confirmed Ash as the light faded and in Nidoran's place now stood a Nidorina.
"Awesome, Nidorina. You evolved," said Leaf happily.
Nidorina looked at her trainer with a smile and charged at Beedrill with her newly learnt move, Aerial Ace and struck the bug/poison–type with the powerful flying–type move.
"Was that Aerial Ace," Leaf asked Ash, who nodded.
"She must've learnt it right after evolving," said Ash and gave Pidgeotto the next command. "Pidgeotto, use Quick Attack to gain some speed and hit Sandshrew hard with Steel Wing!"
Pidgeotto flew like a bullet at Sandshrew using Quick Attack and struck the ground–type with Steel Wing.
"Sandshrew, use Sand Tomb on Nidorina," said AJ.
"Blow it away with Gust," said Ash.
Sandshrew fired its Sand Tomb at Nidorina, but Pidgeotto's Gust blew it away, canceling it.
"Nidorina, use Ice Beam to freeze them," said Leaf.
"Get out of the way," A shouted at his Pokémon.
Unfortunately, Sandshrew and Beedrill were still recovering from the damage they've taken and got hit by Ice Beam, freezing them solid.
"Pidgeotto, use Twister to spin them and then finish them off with Aerial Ace," said Ash.
"Nidoran, lower their defenses with Tail Whip," said Leaf.
Pidgotto, flapped her wings, creating a tornado, sucking both frozen Pokémon inside while Nidoran lowered their defenses with Tail Whip. Pidgeotto stooped flapping her wings and the dragon–type attack appeared to have broken the ice and Pidgeotto struck both Pokémon with Aerial Ace, knocking them both out.
"No fair. You cheated," AJ said angrily at Ash and Leaf.
"And how exactly," asked Leaf.
"You know what, forget it. I don't care that I lost, you're still coming with me," said AJ as he ran to grab Leaf, but Ash held her protectively as Pikachu, Greninja, Pidgeotto and Nidorina stood in the way.
"Get out of my way," said AJ angrily.
"Don't you dare come close to my sister," said Ash with a voice that sent chills down AJ's spine.
"And how are you gonna stop me," asked AJ with a smirk.
"Guys," said Ash bringing the attention of their Pokémon. "He's all yours."
The Pokémon then looked at AJ with devilish smiles, and Pikachu, Nidorina, Pidgeotto and Greninja fired their Thunderbolt, Ice Beam, Twister and Water Shuriken, respectively at AJ.
"Hey, I was just joking," said AJ, but it was too late as the attacks struck him, sending him blast off. "Was that really necessary?"
"Thank you, Ash. I was really scared back there," said Leaf fearfully. "I don't know what would've happened if you weren't here for me."
"That's okay, Leaf. As long as I'm, nothing bad will happen to you," said Ash assuringly, still hugging his sister.
"We're all here for, Leaf," said Brock as he and Misty approached them and joined them in the hug. Even the Pokémon joined in the group hug.
To be continued…
Well, here's the sixth chapter. Ash and Leaf got their second badges and Leaf's Bulbasaur and Nidoran are now Ivysaur and Nidorina, and got herself a Dome Fossil, while Brock got a Helix Fossil. I think I overdid AJ's character a little bit with him forcing Leaf to be his girlfriend, but I think he got what he deserves – a good blast off. Anyway, tell me what you think and I'll see you all next time. And don't worry, Ash and Serena will reunite pretty soon. And in case you're wondering, Serena won't be jealous of Leaf!
R&R