Ch.8: Meeting the Starters
"WE'RE LOST AGAIN," Misty yelled to the rest of them and they winced from the volume. Ash's holo-caster sadly for once had failed and they were lost in the middle of the jungle, again.
"Sorry, guys but I wasn't reading the holo-caster right and now I have no reception so, yeah we're in the middle of nowhere but let's just keep moving and we're bound to get back on the path," Ash said.
Brock was looking at the map of the path. Only problem was that they somehow went right off the lousy map! "Well that's the only option we have left so let's get moving!" he said. Misty grumbled about stupid maps and holo-casters but the trio persevered forwards. Greninja was hopping from tree to tree to see if he could find the way back to the main path. Pikachu was trying to snooze but with all the yelling that isn't going to work. Ash had Lucario out to see if he could sense Aura's of people nearby and then ask them for directions while Gallade was slicing through the thick grass that covered the forest to try and make it easier to walk and had brought Gliscor for bird's eye view.
After what must have felt like an HOUR the team decided to sit down on a bunch of rocks and take a break. While they were doing that Ash noticed an Oddish drinking from a small stream of water and pointed it out to the rest of them.
"Look an Bellsprout," Ash said and pointed towards the rock. Misty perked up and saw Bellsprout. "It's cute, I'm going to catch it," she said.
"You're going to catch a grass-type? I thought you liked water–types," said Ash.
"Just because I like water–types doesn't mean I don't like the other types," said Misty and she brought out a Pokéball and materialized Starmie in front of Bellsprout, who freaked out.
"Does that mean she likes bug–types," Leaf whispered to Ash, who only shrugged in response.
"Starmie, use Water Pulse and then use Swift," said Misty. Starmie fired its Water Pulse and Swift, and both of them struck Bellsprout, knocking it out. "Go, Pokéball!"
Misty threw an empty Pokéball at Bellsprout, but out of nowhere something hit the Pokéball in mid–air and swatted it away. When the Pokéball fell to the ground, a Bulbasaur came in front of Bellsprout. The Bulbasaur was growling at the trainers and it was really ticked.
"Back off, humans," threatened Bulbasaur. "Or else."
Bulbasaur extended its vines and struck Starmie with Vine Whip. The attack sent Starmie flying directly at Misty, but Gallade used Psychic to stop it and Gliscor swooped down and caught Bulbasaur's vines with his pincers.
"Don't even think about it," said Gliscor.
"What's your problem? You could've hurt someone pretty badly and there's no place to tend for injuries in the middle of the forest," scolded Lucario.
Bulbasaur tried pulling Gliscor, but the 'Fang Scorp Pokémon' was too strong and turned to Bellsprout. "I can't free myself. Bellsprout, get out of here!"
Even though it was terrified, Bellsprout managed to run away. Bulbasaur opened its buld and let out a bright green powder at Ash and co.
"That's Sleep Powder! Pidgeotto, use Gust," said Ash as he brought out his Kanto flying–type, who blew the Sleep Powder away. But as that happened, Gliscor caught the blow of the wind and had to let Bulbasaur go. "Pidgeotto, that's enough."
Pidgeotto stopped flapping her wings and the gang saw that Bulbasaur was nowhere in sight.
"Sorry, guys. That wind kinda took me by surprise," said Gliscor as he apologized for letting Bulbasaur get away.
"That's okay, Gliscor. I want you to fly up and search for Bulbasaur and Bellsprout from the sky," said Ash and Gliscor nodded, and took off.
"That Bulbasaur looked healthier than a wild Bulbasaur," said Brock.
"Something tells me that that Bulbasaur has a trainer," suggested Leaf.
"So what shall we do," asked Misty.
"We'll wait here for Gliscor to come back. Not to mention that we've been in this forest for hours and I really need to rest up a little," said Ash as he returned Lucario, Gallade and Pidgeotto to their Pokéballs and laid down by a tree.
"Now that you've mentioned it, I'm really beat," said Leaf as she laid next to Ash.
"That makes three of us," said Misty as she laid on the grass, which was surprisingly soft.
"I can make a few sandwiches while we wait," suggested Brock.
"Sounds good to me," said Leaf.
After about half an hour, Gliscor returned and told Ash that he found Bulbasaur and Bellsprout. The gang packed their bags and followed Gliscor, and after about 20 minutes, they came across a valley with a river running through it. On top of the cliffs was a rickety and unstable bridge.
"If this is not scary, then I don't know what is," said Ash as he took a few slow steps on the bridge with Greninja following him and Pikachu on his shoulder. When he was half the way through the bridge, Brock went next, then Misty, and finally Leaf. But just as Leaf was about to step off the bridge, one of the boards broke and she almost fell of the bridge, but Greninja extended his tongue for Leaf to grab on to it. She held on tightly and Greninja pulled her to safety.
"Leaf, are you okay," asked Ash worried.
"Yeah. I'm okay," answered Leaf and turned to Greninja. "Thanks, Greninja."
"No problem," nodded Greninja.
"Come on, let's keep going," said Ash and they continued to follow Gliscor.
As they continued walking through the forest, Misty fell into a pitfall trap and yelled out in pain from landing badly.
"What's a trap doing here," asked Ash.
"Don't just stand there. Help me get out of here," yelled Misty.
"Brock, you help Misty out. If there are traps then there is something that someone wants others to keep away from so we follow them and hopefully find a person to ask for directions back to the main path. And now that we know there are traps, Greninja can sense them and neutralize them," said Ash and Brock nodded.
"Ash, I'll come with you," said Leaf and Ash nodded.
Ash and Leaf continued walking down the path and Greninja managed to neutralize the traps they almost fell into, when suddenly the Bulbasaur from earlier came by.
"You humans are pretty stubborn," said Bulbasaur.
"I really want to punch this guy in the face," whispered Greninja.
Before anyone could react, Bulbasaur let off a familiar green powder before bolting away.
"Not again with Sleep Powder," groaned Ash, before falling on his back, with Leaf on top of him and Greninja next to him, falling asleep.
"Hey, Ash, Leaf, wake up!" Ash could hear a voice saying that and slowly opened his eyes and groggily woke up. It was the afternoon and they were out for about an hour. After he focused his eyes he could see that the voice was Brock.
"Brock? What happened," asked Ash groaning as he tried to stand up, only to see that Leaf was lying on top of him. He got her off of him and put her arm around his shoulders to carry her.
"Well, after I got Misty out of that hole, we tried looking for you guys, but we got lost. Luckily, an angel from the heavens, named Melanie, found us and we had to explain our situation and then she took us to her house to rest," explained Brock dreamily and Ash just sweat dropped.
"And how much time has passed after we separated," asked Ash.
"A little over an hour," answered Brock and then looked at Ash with a smirk. "So what were you and Leaf doing?"
"Well, we found Bulbasaur, but we could do a thing, he put us to sleep with Sleep Powder," explained Ash, trying his best not to blush.
"Don't worry, Ash. I'm just teasing. We know that Bulbasaur tried to put us to sleep earlier. It'll be our secret. And besides, we don't want to make your girlfriend jealous," said Brock with a smirk.
"Thanks, Brock. You're a good friend," said Ash relieved.
The two boys then managed to wake Leaf, Greninja, Gliscor and Pikachu up, and they were relieved to know that Brock and Misty were alright, and followed the former Gym Leader down the path.
Eventually they came to a wooden house next to a small lake.
"Guys, I'm back," Brock called out and Misty and Melanie came out.
Melanie was dressed in a pink shirt with suspenders to orange gardening clothes and was feeding a variety of grass and bug–type Pokémon next to her.
"You must be Ash and Leaf," said Melanie as she brought out her hand and Ash and Leaf shook their hands with her.
"Where have you been," asked Misty irritated.
"Bulbasaur put us to sleep," answered Ash.
Leaf looked at the host of Pokémon that Melanie was feeding and was amazed. "Wow are all those Pokémon yours?" she asked.
Brock crouched down and explained. "This place is where Melanie takes care of all the wild Pokémon and they can rest and relax here." he said and petted a Paras.
"That's so amazing," said Ash and Leaf nodded in agreement.
"When any Pokémon get abandoned or hurt, Melanie takes them to this place and heals them and takes care of them to recover and then they leave," Misty explained.
"So are you a Pokémon doctor," Leaf asked but Melanie laughed. "Not quite, I'm not qualified to do that. I just take care of them as they come here," she said.
Melanie continued. "Here the Pokémon all relax and try to enjoy themselves as they recover in peace."
"So how do you heal them," asked Ash.
"Melanie knows all the plants in the nearby forest areas and can use them to help Pokémon recover and get stronger when they feel weak," Brock explained before Misty could speak.
"So you both love to take care of Pokémon, no wonder you got along with her so easily," Ash said and Brock nodded furiously to that.
"Well, it looks like you two have a lot more in common than you think," said Leaf with a smirk and Brock's face blushed and covered her mouth.
"Be quite, she might hear you," whispered Brock and Ash saw that Brock was acting the same way he acted around Serena.
"Looks like somebody got hit by cupid's arrow," whispered Gliscor and Greninja and Pikachu nodded.
"You know, I'm still wondering who put that pitfall Misty fell into," wondered Leaf.
"I apologize," Melanie said. "Those traps were to stop Pokémon trainers before they could reach the village. I'm sort of glad that they work," she chuckled and Brock swooned before Greninja caught him and Aerial Aced his skull back to reality.
"But why," asked Misty.
"I'm sorry but those traps were meant to stop Pokémon trainers from catching the injured Pokémon and also to stop poachers," Melanie said.
"Was the bridge a trap as well," asked Ash.
"Yes, but in my defense there was a sign that said 'Do Not Cross'," said Melanie and Ash chuckled and rubbed the back of his head.
"Must've missed it," said Ash and Misty glared at him.
"I promised Melanie that we wouldn't catch any of the Pokémon that stay here," Brock said and looked at the two of them.
"Yeah, I agree," said Ash.
"So did you seal the promise with a kiss," Leaf asked teasingly to Brock, whose face went atomic-red and just turned into a mess.
"Ash, do you think those traps are good enough to keep robbers and poachers away," asked Gliscor.
"You have to be an idiot to fall for those traps," said Greninja without worry as Misty couldn't understand him.
Meanwhile, with three idiots…
"Argh, this has to be the seventh pitfall we fell into," Jessie yelled.
"What is wrong with this place," Meowth exclaimed.
"Well whoever set these traps knew what they were doing," James said.
"How come we fall into other people's traps and they don't fall into ours," Jessie exclaimed.
"Well this trap had lots of elements working for it. Diameter, deepness, stealth, location, dexterity..." James listed.
"Shut it, James and stop complimenting other people's traps and help me get out," Jessie yelled.
10 minutes later…
"You've got to be kidding me," yelled James.
"How many pitfalls are there," asked Meowth after the trio fell into an eighth pitfall.
"Who cares? We have to get out of here," exclaimed Jessie as they tried to climb the pitfall a fourth time, only to fail again.
Yup… they're going to be stuck there for quite some time.
"I doubt there could be anyone that dumb," Ash said to the two Pokémon.
Ash, Leaf, Brock and Greninja were pouring water onto a Staryu to help it heal while Misty and Pikachu went to the Bellsprout to apologize.
"I'm sorry, Bellsprout, I didn't know that you were hurt and I'm sorry for trying to catch you," Misty said to Bellsprout. She almost broke down in tears, but managed to reconcile with Bellsprout.
Ash and Gliscor went up to them, but saw Bulbasaur trying to Tackle Misty and Gliscor went up to her and picked her up just in time. Pikachu and Greninja saw what was happening and Pikachu rushed over, and struck Bulbasaur with Iron Tail, pushing him back.
"You again," yelled Misty as she held on to Gliscor for dear life.
"She was trying to apologize to Bellsprout, you brainless plant," said Greninja angrily.
"Brainless plant!? I'll show you," Bulbasaur growled back as he got back up.
"Wait, please stop," Melanie said in distress. "Bulbasaur was trying to protect the Bellsprout, he didn't mean any harm." Greninja and Pikachu stood down, but had their defenses up to counter any more attacks.
"Bulbasaur here took it as his duty to guard the whole village and tries to protect all the Pokémon when enemies try to attack them," Melanie explained.
"This guy needs an eye–exam if he thinks an apology is an attack," growled Gliscor as he put Misty down.
"So that's why he tried to attack us," Leaf said in realization. "He thought that Misty was going for another round with the same Bellsprout."
Bulbasaur couldn't use another attack so he just tried to push against Ash's leg. "Just go away!" he kept saying over and over.
"Why do you want us to leave so badly? We're not trying to catch any Pokémon," said Ash.
"It's true Bulbasaur, please stop" Melanie pleaded.
"Wow, your something else," Ash said, "Even when injured you're still fighting for what you believe in," he said with respect and Bulbasaur looked up at him in surprise.
"Wait, did you just understand that guy," asked Bulbasaur, but before Ash could answer the group heard a stupid chant, and everyone groaned wondering if the annoying trio will ever leave them alone.
"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"
They looked up to see the three idiots on top of a stadium floating with balloons? Their hair and clothes were disheveled from mud.
"You were right, Greninja. There are idiots who would fall for those traps," Ash said to the 'Ninja Pokémon', who nodded.
The trio dropped a stadium next to the house and extended a vacuum hose near the house.
"All Pokémon are invited to our stadium, courtesy of Team Rocket," Jessie said.
"We're not hosing around anymore with you twerps," Meowth said and tried to make a pun but it was terrible.
"This is the stupidest and biggest waste of money I have ever seen," Leaf deadpanned and the others nodded in agreement.
The suction started to move the Pokémon and Ash managed to grab a Staryu before he was sucked in. Brock got to the wooden house and opened the door.
"Everyone inside now," Brock yelled over the noise.
Melanie, Brock and Misty carried some of the Pokémon and got into the house. Misty tried to grab Bellsprout, but missed.
"Greninja, grab Bellsprout," said Ash and Greninja extended his tongue and wrapped it around Bellsprout to stop Bellsprout from being sucked in, and Bulbasaur wrapped his Vine Whip around Bellsprout to pull it back.
"Leaf, take Staryu," said Ash as he handed the water–type Pokémon to Leaf and she ran back to the house.
Ash, Greninja and Gliscor helped Bulbasaur reel Bellsprout in, and Ash carried Bellsprout while Gliscor carried Bubasaur and Greninja carried Pikachu back to the house. Bulbasaur was shocked that a guy he tried to Tackle earlier was helping him out and taking him back to the house and after they got in Leaf slammed the door shut.
The house started to rattle and shake and Ash looked out the window to see Team Rocket moving the hose towards the house.
"Those nut–jobs," Ash yelled, "They're trying to tear the house apart!"
"It won't hold on for much long," said Melanie.
"We need something big to protect the house," said Brock and Ash came up with an idea.
"Then it's a good thing I've got the perfect Pokémon for the job," said Ash as he opened the door. "Greninja and Gliscor, with me. Pikachu and Bulbasaur, you stay here and make sure everyone's okay."
The Pokémon complied with no hesitation and Greninja and Gliscor followed Ash out of the house.
"Steelix, I choose you," said Ash as he brought out the 'Iron Snake Pokémon' out of his PokéBall. "Wrap your body around the house to protect it! Greninja, freeze that hose with Ice Beam, and Gliscor, break it up with your best X–Scissor!"
Steelix wrapped his body around the house while Greninja froze the hose, but just as Gliscor was about to hit it with X – Scissor, an Air Cutter came out of nowhere, stopping him.
"What the heck," asked Ash and Gliscor, and saw 12 Golbat materializing out of PokéBalls from a few helicopters.
"Did you really think we would just come here without back–up," James asked scathingly and 12 faceless Team Rocket goons dressed in black with black caps and a red "R" on their shirts showed up from the helicopters.
Ash gritted his teeth and brought out Hydreigon and Nidoking.
"So 3 Golbats for each of us. This'll be a piece of cake," said Greninja with a smirk.
"I was itching for a good battle," said Nidoking.
"Let's get them, guys," said Ash.
Hydreigon vs 3 Golbat
"You guys picked a wrong day to mess with me," said Hydreigon and got ready for battle.
"All of you use Air Cutter," said the goons and the Golbat sent their attacks at Hydreigon.
"Hydreigon, counter with Tri Attack and then use Dragon Pulse," said Ash. Hydregon countered the Air Cutters with Tri Attack and fired Dragon Pulse from each head, hitting all Golbats. "Now use Flash Cannon!"
"Dodge it and use Quick Attack," said the three goons. The Golbat dodged the steel–type move and charged with high speed at Hydreigon.
"Hydreigon, use Flamethrower when they get close enough," said Ash. The 3 Golbat were just a few centimeters away from Hydreigon when the dark/dragon–type unleashed his Flamethrower, striking the Golbats with a direct hit, knocking them all out.
"Greninja was right. It was a piece of cake," grinned Hidreigon.
Nidoking vs 3 Golbat
"Bring it on, flying pests," challenged Nidoking.
"Golbat, use Aerial Ace," said three goons.
"Nidoking, use rapid fire Shadow Ball," said Ash.
The 3 Golbats charged in with Aerial Ace, but Nidoking managed to stop them with his Shadow Ball rapid fire.
"Finish them with Sludge Bomb," said Ash.
"I've got something better for these fellas," said Nidoking and launched a giant purple wave at the Golbats, hitting all of them, defeating them. Ash knew that this move wasn't Sludge Bomb, but Sludge Wave.
"Awesome, Nidoking. You learnt a new move," exclaimed Ash.
"I've been saving it in case of an emergency and now seemed the right time," said Nidoking.
Gliscor vs 3 Golbat
"You don't stand a chance," taunted Gliscor.
"Golbat, get behind each other and use Brave Bird," said the goons.
"Gliscor, stop them with Stone Edge," said Ash.
The Golbat charged at Gliscor with Brave Bird, but the ground/flying–type slammed his tail on the ground and several rock pillars came out, and headed for the incoming Golbat, and some of the pillars struck the poison/flying–types sending them high into the air.
"Gliscor, finish them with Giga Impact," said Ash. Gliscor charged at the dazed Golbat with Giga Impact like a rocket and struck them with the powerful attacks sending crashing on the ground, defeated.
"That's how it's done," said Gliscor with a smirk.
Greninja vs 3 Golbat
"Let's take 'em down," said Greninja and Ash nodded.
"Golbat, use Venoshock," said the goons.
"Greninja, dodge them with Double Team and then use Ice Beam," said Ash.
The 3 Golbat fired their Venoshocks, but Greninja created copies of himself to avoid the poison–type attacks and struck his opponents with Ice Beam, freezing them in a block of ice.
"Now use Aerial Ace and then finish them with Water Shuriken," said Ash and Greninja charged in with Aerial Ace, and hit the block of ice with his foot, breaking it to pieces, and then fired multiple Water Shuriken at the Golbat, knocking them down.
"Check and mate," smirked Greninja.
"He fought 12 Pokémon with 4," exclaimed Jessie.
"If I'm correct, that would mean that his Pokémon are worth 3 Pokémon," said James.
"That's an even bigger reason to steal 'em," said Meowth.
"Can't you idiots leave us alone," Ash asked angrily as the trio was really starting to get under his skin, and Greninja was feeling the same. The two decided to show Team Rocket just how powerful they are and mimicked their moves as a huge water veil formed around Greninja, which exploded and a huge shuriken was formed on Greninja's back, transforming into Ash–Greninja.
"What the heck is that," asked the evil trio.
"Let's give them our all, guys," Ash said to his Pokémon and they all nodded. "Nidoking, use Flamethrower! Hydreigon, use Dark Pulse! Gliscor, use Stone Edge! Greninja, use Water Shuriken!"
The attacks struck each member of Team Rocket, sending them to blast off and hopefully not to see them again anytime soon, and Greninja turned back to normal.
"Ash, that was amazing," cheered Leaf as went up to him and hugged him.
Everyone exited the house after Team Rocket was blasted to who knows where and Steelix had unwrapped himself from around the house.
"I've got to admit, using Steelix's huge body to keep the house safe was a good idea," said Misty.
"Ash, I'd never imagine that you'd have such strong Pokémon, let alone a Pseudo–Legendary dragon," said Melanie in awe when she looked at Pokémon Ash had.
However, she wasn't the only one. Bulbasaur was watching the whole battle through one of the windows and couldn't imagine how a kid like Ash could have such powerful Pokémon, and he was still wondering how in the name of Arceus did Greninja changed his form?
"That's what happens after years of intense training," said Ash.
"You got that right, partner," said Greninja as if he was in a western movie and Ash just sweat dropped.
"Okay, when we get back to Kalos, no more western movies for you, mister," said Ash playfully.
"Hey, someone has to keep your mom company while she's watching them," Greninja defended himself.
"So you'll prefer to watch movies with my mom instead of spending time with Delphox," said Ash and Greninja paled. "I don't think she'll like to hear that her mate doesn't want to spend time with her."
"No western movies when we get back, got it," said Greninja quickly and Ash and his other Pokémon laughed as they knew what happened the last time when Greninja watched movies with Delia instead of hanging out with his girlfriend.
"Wait, Ash, you can understand Pokémon," asked Melanie when she saw Ash and Greninja communicate.
"Yeah, the thing is I'm an Aura Guardian–in–training, so I can understand Pokéspeech, I just don't wear the costume that comes with it," said Ash, which surprised both Melanie and Bulbasaur as the grass/poison–type sweated a little.
"Umm... I'm sorry for attacking you. If I knew you were an Aura Guardian and protecting peace then I wouldn't have done that," Bulbasaur said nervously.
"That's ok, there was no harm done and there really is nothing to apologize for" Ash said and Bulbasaur perked up.
"Ash, you're an aura guardian, like from the fairy tales," Melanie said in wonder.
"Well, yeah," he said and rubbed the back of his head.
"I have a question," she said, "Would you be willing to add Bulbasaur to your team?" Everyone was surprised by that.
"Well only if he wants to come with me, if not, then no," Ash said firmly.
"Melanie, why do you want me to leave," Bulbasaur asked almost in tears. Melanie turned to Ash who translated.
"No you misunderstood, I think Bulbasaur should go with you because you're a good trainer," Melanie said and picked him up. "The bulb on Bulbasaur shows how strong he is but it's barely grown since I met him and all he does is protecting the weaker Pokémon in this small village. He needs to go out into the world and become the amazing Pokémon I know he can be. I know a person like you can be trusted with Bulbasaur so please, can you take him with you? He will be a faithful and loyal friend," she explained.
Bulbasaur looked shocked and Greninja spoke. "She wants you to get stronger, fella. She appreciates how much you've done for everyone here but she doesn't want you sacrificing any more for the village so she wants you to go and become stronger." Bulbasaur was shocked that Melanie would do that for him.
"But who will protect you people if Bulbasaur leaves," Brock asked.
"That's the problem. Bulbasaur does too good of a job," she said. "Bulbasaur protects us all so much that the weaker Pokémon come here, recover but they should leave and get stronger but all they do is just stay here and rely on Bulbasaur and isolate them from the wild where they belong and they can't find good trainers like the four of you," Melanie continued. "I will always take care of the Pokémon but I feel happiest when they leave and that is the most rewarding part of what I do. Now it's time for Bulbasaur to recover and leave to get stronger. He won't be any burden to you, I can promise that Ash".
Ash felt conflicted, he wanted to make Melanie happy but taking Bulbasaur without him wanting to... "Can I come with you," Bulbasaur asked and Ash was surprised.
"You want to come with me Bulbasaur," Ash asked.
"Yep, but you have to battle me for it," he said back to Ash and he smiled and said, "I'd like it no other way!"
Ash vs Bulbasaur
"Okay, so who wants to battle," Ash asked his Pokémon.
"Isn't your job as trainer to choose," asked Hydreigon.
"Yeah, but this I'll let you chose," replied Ash.
The Pokémon looked at each other and took a step back, leaving Pikachu up front, surprising the 'Mouse Pokémon'.
"Gee, thanks," muttered Pikachu and the others smiled innocently.
"Okay, Pikachu, you're up," said Ash and Pikachu got ready for a battle.
"Good luck, Ash," cheered Leaf.
"Thanks, Leaf," said Ash and focused on the battle. "Pikachu, start up with Quick Attack and combined it with Focus Punch."
Pikachu charged in with Quick Attack and when he got close enough to Bulbasaur, his right paw glowed white and struck the grass/poison–type with Focus Punch.
"Ouch. Okay, that hurt," said Bulbasaur as he recovered from the hit and brought his vines and tried to hit Pikachu with Vine Whip, but the electric–type was faster and avoided the vines.
"Pikachu, use Iron Tail on the ground to jump and then use Thunderbolt," said Ash.
Pikachu slammed its tail on the ground, launching himself in the air, avoiding a Tackle from Bulbasaur.
"Uh oh, looks like I'm in trouble," muttered Bulbasaur to himself and Pikachu fired his Thunderbolt, striking Bulbasaur directly, paralyzing it.
"Pikachu, use another Quick Attack," said Ash.
Pikachu charged in with Quick Attack, but miraculously Bulbasaur stepped out of the way at last second despite the paralysis and hit Pikachu with Vine Whip, followed by Razor Leaf.
"How in the world did Bulbasaur dodged that Quick Attack," asked Leaf in wonder.
"Bulbasaur sure has some fighting spirit," said Brock.
"Pikachu, use Quick Attack once more," said Ash.
"This again," asked Bulbasaur confused.
Pikachu charged in with Quick Attack again, and Bulbasaur stepped out of the way, again, but was confused when he saw Ash's smirk.
"Pikachu, use Iron Tail," said Ash much to Bulbasaur's shock.
Pikachu stopped right in his tracks and swung his tail at Bulbasaur, hitting him hard with Iron Tail.
"Now's our chance," said Ash as he brought out an empty PokéBall and threw it at Bulbasaur, sucking the grass/poison–type in. The ball shook once, twice, thrice and a ding was herd to signify a capture. "Alright, I've got a Bulbasaur!"
"Congratulations, Ash," said Melanie after Ash had brought Bulbasaur out and treated his wounds and cured his paralysis. They were about to leave and let Bulbasaur say his final goodbyes, and Ash returned Gliscor, Hydreigon, Nidoking and Steelix back to their respective PokéBalls.
"Bulbasaur, thank you for everything you've done for us," Melanie said to Bulbasaur.
"Thanks for letting me leave," Bulbasaur said and again Ash translated for them.
"Melanie, since you have Bulbasaur leaving I was wondering if I could stay here and help you," Brock said with a blush but Melanie just smiled.
"That's all right, but Brock I don't want to keep you from all the adventures you and your friends go on," she said and Brock felt his heart break while Ash, Leaf and Greninja just sighed.
Ash and co. said their goodbyes and Melanie showed them the way back to the main path and they left before sun-down. Ash was walking with Greninja and Pikachu on his shoulder and with Bulbasaur walking beside him looking a bit depressed.
"Bulbasaur, the world is a small place and one day you'll come across the Pokémon from the village again so don't look so glum. Besides you'll get to meet all of my Pokémon so you won't feel lonely," Ash said and Bulbasaur perked up. Meanwhile Misty was teasing Brock about his crush and Ash and the Pokémon just sighed and kept walking to Vermillion City.
At night they stopped to camp and Bulbasaur was looking pensive as he watched the humans he tried to tackle earlier accept him so easily. As they were sitting around and Brock was preparing dinner Ash just realised something.
""I just realized, I forgot to scan Bulbasaur" Ash said and Bulbasaur looked up.
"Scan," Bulbasaur asked.
Ash pulled out his Pokédex and pointed it at Bulbasaur.
Bulbasaur, the 'Seed Pokémon'. It carries a seed on its back right from birth. As it grows older, the seed also grows larger. Type(s): Grass/Poison. Gender: Male. Ability: Overgrow. Move(s): Vine Whip, Leech Seed, Razor Leaf, Tackle, Sleep Powder, Poison Powder. Held item: None. Egg Move(s): Ingrain and Leaf Storm. Egg moves are locked.
Wow, sounds impressive," said Leaf.
"Yeah, but I think with some training, we can make that Tackle more powerful," said Ash which got Bulbasaur interested.
"What are you talking about, Ash," asked Misty.
"I was thinking of teaching Take Down and I think Leaf's Ivysaur will be the perfect teacher," said Ash.
"Yeah, Ivysaur learnt Take Down during some training when we left Cerulean City," said Leaf.
"And after we do that, I suggest we work on Bulbasaur's defense instead of his speed so we could be prepared for when he evolves," said Ash.
"I promise to work hard, but how am I going to reach the level of your other Pokémon? They're pretty strong," said Bulbasaur.
Ash laughed a bit, "Bulbasaur, your just starting out. I never expected you to be a super titan at the start. We all have beginnings, I met Greninja as a tiny Froakie when I was 6 and we trained for 4 years to become this strong. Bulbasaur, I don't want you to compare yourself to others and they won't think any less of you, after all they started out the same as you. I won't let you battle Pokémon as strong as Greninja because you could get hurt badly and I never want that to happen to my family. Besides you are strong, you fought day and night every day to protect a village. You never gave a second thought to sacrifice your wellbeing for others. That speaks a lot for your own strength so always have faith in that. By having faith in your own strength you can overcome crazy odds and overcome failure and get stronger from it so don't be scared, be the Bulbasaur who fearlessly fights for what he believes in," Ash said while looking right at Bulbasaur.
Ash's words lit a fire inside Bulbasaur as he looked back at the absolute faith that Ash had in him.
"I will believe in myself and I will get stronger, Ash," Bulbasaur said back happily to him. "And beat that stupid frog, too," he said as an afterthought.
Ash laughed at that comment about Greninja. "Well looks like dinner's ready let's go," Ash said and Bulbasaur walked beside him with a promise to be there with him till the ends of the Earth.
"WE'RE LOST AGAIN," Misty yelled and that doubled the headache of Ash, Leaf, Brock, Pikachu and Greninja. They had been travelling for a few days and we find them in the morning, lost and as Misty said, again.
"Sorry, this was my fault. I was talking to Serena on my Holo-Caster and wasn't looking properly when we were walking so we took a couple of wrong turns and now there's no signal, again," Ash said to Misty.
"You've got to be kidding me," said Misty as she face–palmed.
"Well, excuse me if I want to talk to my girlfriend," Ash replied.
"Okay, you two. Why don't we focus on finding out way out this place," suggested Leaf and Ash nodded before Misty could speak.
"I don't care how, I just want to pay this girl her bike back so she could leave us alone," Greninja whispered to Pikachu, who nodded, but Ash heard him and was thinking the exact same thing.
"Hmm, according to this map, we're in the middle of nowhere," said Brock. "Oh Misty, there's a bug on you," he added and Misty jumped on Ash's back, buck Greninja wrapped his tongue around her to get her of his trainer.
"Thanks, Greninja," Ash said to his Pokémon, who nodded.
"My bad. It's just some grass," said Brock and Misty tried to kick him, but Greninja prevented her from doing it.
"Can I have a look," asked Ash and Brock gave him the map. "Hmm, looks like this trail intersects Route 24. That goes straight to Vermillion City! Perfect," Ash said with a smile.
"Well what are we waiting for, let's go," Misty said cheerfully and walked along the trail when a large shadow loomed over them.
"Um, guys," said Misty nervously.
"Ash, maybe it could be a good time to bring out those big dragons of yours up front," suggested Brock.
"There's no need for that," said Ash as he pointed a nearby rock with a Charmander on it.
"Okay, what's a Charmander doing here," asked Leaf, confused, but then she saw the flame on its tail. "Hey, look at its flame."
"Ash, that Charmander's tail is tiny. A Charmander's tail represents how healthy it is and if it goes out they die," Brock said and he was right, the flame was tiny, almost as if it was going to go out at any second.
"Charmander, you need to go to the pokémon centre" Ash said and offered his hand to go down, "The flame on your tail is weak. At this rate you will die"
"No, my trainer said to wait here and he will come back" Charmander said.
"But you need to go to the pokémon centre. Can't you go there and then come back here. And what kind of moron leaves a Charmander here when their tail is nearly out," Ash exclaimed.
"I can't leave! What if he comes and I miss him," Charmander asked.
"Well did he say when he would come back," Ash asked.
"No he just said wait here," Charmander replied.
"Wait here for what exactly," Ash asked.
"I don't know. He just said wait here, and I'm not leaving," said Charmander.
"We can't just leave you here," said Ash.
"I've been here for quite some time, so I'll be fine," said Charmander.
"Ash, there's a Pokémon Center down the road. We need to go if we want to get there before it gets dark," said Brock.
"But what about Charmander," asked Ash.
"I hate to say it, but if he doesn't want to leave this rock, then we have to respect his wish," said Greninja with sadness in his voice.
"Yeah, I guess you're right," said Ash a little uneasy.
"We'll come back in the morning to check on him if you'd like," suggested Leaf.
"Yeah. At least we'll know if his trainer really did come back for him," said Ash and they left for the Pokémon Center.
When they got to the Pokémon Center, Brock and Misty sat on a bench while Ash and Leaf went to Nurse Joy to book two rooms for the night, and right then a huge thunder was heard.
"Oh boy, looks like there's storm coming," said Nurse Joy and Ash grew even more worried for Charmander, and Leaf saw the look on his face.
"You're worried for Charmander, right," said Leaf and Ash nodded. "Look, Ash, I'm worried, too. Let's hope that his trainer did indeed go back for him."
"I know, but I just can't help, but worry," said Ash as they joined Brock and Misty by the bench, but before either of could say a thing, they heard a laugh coming from a nearby table. They turned to their left a saw two boys laughing.
"You ready did that," asked one the boys, who had a reddish–brown hair and was wearing a green T–Shirt with yellow stripes and dark blue jeans.
"Yup. I can't believe that weakling fell for it," replied the other boy, who had blue hair with sunglasses and was wearing an orange jacket with a dark red T–Shirt underneath it. He was also wearing dark brown jeans.
"Wow, Damien, you're so cruel," said the first boy.
"I know, right. That stupid Charmander really did believe I'd come back for him," said Damien with a smirk and laughed. "I just left it on that rock and I don't care what happens to it. It's probably already dead."
What Damien said made the group's blood to boil with anger, but that final sentence was the final straw, and Greninja extended his tongue and wrapped it around Damien's neck and pulled him in. When he was close enough, Ash grabbed a hold of Damien's T–Shirt and glared at him.
"Hey, what's the big idea," asked Damien confused, but before Ash could speak, Leaf shouted.
"'WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA'!? WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA!?," screamed Leaf. "I'll tell you what the big deal is. You left a Charmander on a rock, saying you would go back for him! Now there's a storm coming and you don't even care about Charmander's health! You are decrease to the Pokémon Trainers! People like you make me sick!"
After her little 'speech' she slapped Damien hard across the face, much to everyone's shock. Ash had known her for years and he'd never seen her this angry.
"What's going on here," asked Nurse Joy as she came up to them and glared.
"Nothing too major. Just a little misunderstanding," said Ash before Leaf could say a thing, trying to prevent an argument. "That's all."
"Well, then I'd appreciate if you don't cause anymore scenes," said Nurse Joy as she walked away from them.
"Let me go," said Damien and Ash let go of his T–Shirt, and joined his friend.
"Ash, what are you doing," whispered Leaf with slight anger.
"You heard what Nurse Joy said. We don't want to cause any more trouble," said Ash. "We need to go back to that Charmander before that storm comes."
But as luck would have it, just as he said it, heavy rain started to pour outside and they immediately got worried.
"What are we waiting for? Let's get going," said Greninja and Ash nodded, and everyone went out of the door to get Charmander to safety.
It took them a couple of minutes and when they arrived at the rock, they saw a frightening scene. Charmander was holding on a leaf over himself while being attacked by a bunch of Spearow.
"We've got to do something," said Leaf in fear.
"Greninja, stop those Spearow with Water Shuriken," said Ash and Greninja fired multiple shuriken at the Spearow, chasing them away.
They got a close look at Charmander and saw that his flame was even smaller.
"We need a fire–type Pokémon to make sure Charmander's okay," aid Brock.
"In that case, Houndoom, I choose you," said Ash as he brought out Houndoom. He picked Charmander up from the rock and put it on Houndoom's back.
"We need to make sure Charmander's flame doesn't go out," said Leaf.
"Salamence, I choose you," said Ash as brought out the Hoenn Pseudo–Legendary out. "Salamence, I need you to use your wings to cover us and Charmander's flame from the rain until we reach the Pokémon Center."
With Salamence's wings covering them and Houndoom's body heat, the gang managed to take Charmander to the Pokémon Center, and Ash returned his dragon/flying–type before they entered.
"Nurse Joy, we've got a Charmander that needs medical help," shouted Ash and Nurse Joy saw the Charmander on Houndoom's back.
"Oh my," gasped Nurse Joy and quickly got into action. "Chansey I need a stretcher for a medium–size fire–type," she said and a Chansey immediately managed to bring a stretcher into the Pokémon Center and Nurse Joy picked Charmander from Houndoom, placed him on the stretcher, and carted Charmander away.
After sever hours of waiting anxiously, Nurse Joy stepped out of the Emergency room. The group didn't waste any time and went up to her.
"How's Charmander, Nurse Joy," asked Brock.
Nurse Joy paused and then smiled. "Charmander was able to pull through. Using your Houndoom's body head to keep it warm while you were coming here helped. It should be fine by tomorrow morning," she said.
"That's great," exclaimed Ash.
"Yes. Since this Charmander was abandoned by its Trainer, I'll look after it for a while," said Nurse Joy.
Oh, Nurse Joy! You're so kind! You're as beautiful on the inside as you're on the outside," cried Brock as he took her hands in his.
"Oh, umm, thank you," said Nurse Joy nervously.
"Perhaps we can get together tomorrow for breakfast and…ahhh," started Brock, but didn't finish as Greninja hit him with Aerial Ace in the back.
"Knock it off, Romeo," said Greninja.
The next morning the group decided to check to see if Charmander was feeling any better. They were allowed by Nurse Joy to enter the Emergency Room, and what they saw shocked them.
Charmander was indeed much healthier. The bright, burning flame on his tail proved that, but it seemed to be trying to escape the room.
"Charmander, why are you trying to escape," asked Leaf.
Charmander turned away from the window he was about to hop out of and gave the group a guilty look.
"You're going back to that rock, aren't you," asked Ash and Charmander nodded.
"My trainer might be looking for me," said Charmander and turned back towards the window.
"Charmander, I hate to say it, but I don't think Damien is comin back for you," said Ash sadly.
"Ash," scolded Misty.
"He has the right to know the truth," Ash defended.
"It's natural that you still feel loyal to Damien. It's just we happened to hear him talking about you last night. It didn't seem like he had any intension of coming back for you. I just don't want you to go back on that rock and wind up sick again," said Brock softly.
"It's your choice to make, Charmander. Just keep in mind what we told you," said Leaf.
Charmander hesitated for a bit. It looked back towards the window and then back at the group. It certainly knew that these people in front of him cared and saving his life last night is a proof to that. Charmender couldn't recall one time when Damien had said a kind word to him. He was always calling him weak, pathetic, or stupid when he lost a battle. Even if Charmander would win a battle, Damien never him that he did a good job.
"I think you're a great Pokémon, Charmander. Any trainer would be lucky to have you," said Ash. "To tell you the truth, Damian kinda reminds me of Houndoom's previous trainer. His name was Calem and he was a pretty bad news. You know, why don't you show us just how powerful you are? That'll show Damian for sure."
"He's telling the truth," said Greninja.
Charmander took one last look at the window before turning around and nodding towards the group.
"Let's do it," said Charmander.
Everyone was now in front of the Pokémon Center. They had made up some various targets, with some of them moving thanks to Lucario's Psychic, and some of them standing still. Houndoom agreed to be a target for Charmander's strength as he was the only one, who could withstand Charmander's fire attacks because of Flash Fire. Steelix was also out so he could withstand any physical attacks.
"This will show that you're just as powerful Pokémon as any," said Ash encouragingly. "Don't let anyone tell you different!"
"I'm ready," said Charmander and got ready to aim at the targets.
"Okay, go for it," said Ash and Charmander used Flamethrower and Dragon Rage attacks to destroy both moving and non–moving targets. "Great job, Charmander! Now use any attacks on Houndoom and Steelix to test your strength."
Charmander charged in and confused Houndoom and Steelix with Smokescreen, and then jumped out of the as high as he could and hit Steelix with his best Shadow Claw and then tried his Flamethrower on Houndoom.
"Okay, that wasn't bad," said Ash and turned to his Pokémon. "What do you guys think?"
"I sure felt that Shadow Claw," said Steelix.
"I must admit that his fire power is impressive," said Houndoom. "If I have to be honest, if I didn't have Flash Fire, that would've hurt a lot."
"See, Charmander. You're a one tough Pokémon," said Ash.
"Thanks, that means a lot," said Charmander happily.
"You're welcome. You know what, why don't you come along with us," asked Ash. "I'll be happy to have an amazing Pokémon as you on my team."
"Ash, you'll be the perfect trainer for Charmander," said Leaf. "You and your Pokémon did manage to keep the flame on its tail lit while running through the rain."
Charmander seemed to be thinking it over, but before he could give his answer, they heard a familiar voice.
"I've been looking for you, Charmander," said the voice.
They spun around to find none other than Damian standing there, who surprisingly had a smile on his face.
"What do you want, Damian," asked Brock in an unfriendly tone.
"I'm here to get Charmander back just like I promised," said Damian.
"What," the group gasped.
"It's true. Let's go, Charmander," said Damian.
"Wait just a minute. What is with sudden change? Last night you didn't even care if Charmander died," asked Ash suspiciously.
"That was before I saw what it could do this morning. I was watching you guys from the window at the Pokémon Center. Charmander is a lot better than I thought so I'll be taking it back now," replied Damian.
"So you're taking him back just because he's strong now and not because you're sorry for what you did," asked Leaf in disbelieve.
"That's right. I'm glad I did leave it on that rock, too. If I hadn't, I wouldn't have ran into you guys who helped train it for me so I don't have to," Damian confirmed, and Greninja, Pikachu, Lucario, Houndoom and Steelix got in front of Charmander defensively, while the 'Lizard Pokémon' hung his head in sadness.
"You see, Charmander. This guy only wants you so he could win battles. He doesn't care about your wellbeing at all. He even freely admitted that he left you die last night," Ash said to the fire–type.
"You aren't trying to keep me from getting my Pokémon back, are you," Damian asked dangerously, losing his smile.
"You don't deserve a Pokémon like Charmander," shouted Leaf.
"Charmander is my Pokémon. I'm the one who caught it. You can't keep it from me," retorted Damian.
"He's not your Pokémon anymore since you abandoned it," shouted Brock.
"Now I'm coming back for it! If you even think about taking what's mine from me, I'll have you arrested for Pokémon thievery," argued Damian.
"We could have arrested you for Pokémon abuse in return," Ash fired back.
"It seems the only we're going to settle this is through a Pokémon battle. If you win, you keep Charmander. If I win, I keep it. But that's not all," said Damian.
"What else do you want," asked Ash.
"If I win, that slut is coming with me," answered Damian with a smirk as he gestured at Leaf.
"WHAT," yelled the group in shock and Ash's Pokémon glared at Damian, and got ready to attack.
"There's no way I'll join a selfish little brat like you," shouted Leaf and then felt Ash hugging her protectively.
"I swear you'll regret it if you lay a finger on my sister," said Ash in a dangerously low voice. "And NO ONE calls her a slut!"
"So what? Are you going to battle," challenged Damian.
"You're so on," answered Ash and returned Lucario, Houndoom and Steelix to their PokéBalls.
"I know you can do it, Ash," said Leaf. "Beat him up for me."
"Count on it," said Ash.
"Show me what you've got. How does a three–on–three sound," asked Damian.
"That's fine by me," answered Ash.
"I'll be the referee," said Leaf.
"Oh, this'll be perfect. That way you'll see my victory up close," said Damian.
"If you don't shut your mouth up in the next five seconds, I'll declare Ash the winner," said Leaf irritated before calming down. "Anyway, this'll be a three–on–three Pokémon battle between my brother, Ash, and the selfish scumbag, Damian. Each trainer will use 3 Pokémon and the battle will be over when all 3 Pokémon on one side are unable to continue. Are the trainers ready?"
"Ready," answered Ash and Damian.
"Then bring out your first Pokémon," said Leaf.
"Rhydon, let's go," said Damian as he brought out his Ground/Rock–type.
"If it's Rhydon, then I'll use this one. Glaceon, I choose you," said Ash as he brought out his Ice–type.
"Let the battle begin," said Leaf.
"Rhydon, use Horn Attack," said Damian.
"Glaceon, dodge it and use Shadow Ball," said Ash.
Rhydon charged with Horn Attack, but Glaceon got out of the way and struck Rhydon with Shadow Ball, lowering its special defense.
"Rhydon, use Iron Tail," said Damian irritated.
"Glaceon, counter it with Frost Breath and then use Hail," said Ash.
Rhydon went for Iron Tail, but was stopped in its tracks by Glaceon's Frost Breath and the 'Fresh Snow Pokémon' then summoned a Hail.
"That won't help you," said Damian. "Rhydon, use Rock Blast!"
"Glaceon, use Water Pulse right in front of you," said Ash. Rhydon launched its Rock Blast, but Glaceon fired a Water Pulse, which hit ground and got formed into a tidal wave, which stopped the Rock Blast and struck Rhydon. "Now use Blizzard to freeze the wave!"
Glaceon fired her Blizzard, which froze the wave with Rhydon inside of it.
"Glaceon, let's finish this," said Ash. "Use Shadow Ball, followed by Attract and Frost Breath!"
Glaceon fired her Shadow Ball, which broke the ice, then used Attract to prevent Rhydon from using any attacks, and finally struck the Ground/Rock–type with a direct hit from Frost Breath, knocking it out.
"Rhydon is unable to battle! Glaceon is the winner," announced Leaf. "Damian, send out your 2nd Pokémon."
"Rhydon, return," said Damian as he returned his fallen Pokémon and brought out his second one, a Machoke.
"Glaceon, return. You did a good job," said Ash as he returned the Ice–type back to her PokéBall, and made his second choice. "Salamance, I choose you!"
"What the heck is that," asked Damian.
"That's Salamence. He's a Pseudo–Legendary Dragon/Flying–type from Hoenn," explained Ash.
"Whatever. Let's get them, Machoke," said Damian, but then saw Machoke's expression. "What's wrong with you?"
"It looks like Salamence's ability, Intimidate, is in effect," chuckled Ash.
"You'll still lose," shouted Damian. "Machoke, use Rock Slide!
"Salamence, just like we practiced. Spin and use Hydro Pump, and then use Dragon Claw," said Ash.
Machoke summoned several rock in the air and they went for Salamence, but the 'Dragon Pokémon' spin around and countered them with a spinning Hydro Pump, and then struck Machoke with Dragon Claw.
"Machoke, use Ice Punch," ordered Damian.
"Salamence, counter it with Steel Wing and then use a close–ranged Flamethrower," said Ash.
Machoke charged in with Ice Punch, but Salamence blocked it with Steel Wing and used the moment to strike with Flamethrower, burning the Fighting–type.
"You'll pay for that! Machoke, use Focus Blast," ordered Damian angrily.
"Salamence, dodge it and use Zen Headbutt, and then finish it off with full power Draco Meteor," said Ash.
Machoke fired its Focus Blast, but Salamence avoided it and struck Machoke with Zen Headbutt, and then launched his Draco Meteor in the air, where exploded into several meteors, which stuck Machoke, knocking it out.
"Machoke is unable to battle. Salamence wins," announced Leaf. "Damian, send out your final Pokémon!"
"Machoke, return," said Damian frustrated and turned to Ash. "You think you're so tough? I won't let you win! Charmander and that girl will be coming with me! Fearow, let's go!"
"So you're choosing Fearow," said Ash. "Not a problem. Salamence, return. Pikachu, let's win this!"
"I've been waiting to teach this jerk a lesson," said Pikachu and he got ready to battle.
"Pikachu, start up with Quick Attack," said Ash.
"Fearow, counter with Aerial Ace," ordered Damian.
Pikachu shot like a rocket with Quick Attack, but Fearow managed to counter it with Aerial Ace.
"Fearow, use Drill Run," said Damian.
"Pikachu, dodge it and use Iron Tail," said Ash.
Fearow charged in with Drill Run, but Pikachu avoided the attack and struck Fearow with Iron Tail.
"Fearow, use Aerial Ace," said Damian and Fearow charged with Aerial Ace, and struck Pikachu with the Flying–type move, but got paralyzed because of Static.
"Pikachu, use Thunderbolt," said Ash.
"Fearow, dodge it with Double Team and then use Facade," said Damian.
Pikachu fired his Thunderbolt, but Fearow created multiple copies of itself to dodge the attack, and struck Pikachu with its powerful Facade.
"Pikachu, are you okay," Ash asked his Electric–type to which Pikachu nodded and got back up on his feet. "Alright, Pikachu use Thunderbolt once more!"
"It's too late now," said Damian. "Fearow, use Roost."
Pikachu fired his Thunderbolt, which struck Fearow, but didn't do super–effective damage because of Roost.
"Pikachu, use Quick Attack into Iron Tail," said Ash and Pikachu struck Fearow with Quick Attack, immediately followed by Iron Tail, lowering Fearow's defense.
"Fearow, use Steel Wing," ordered Damian.
"Pikachu, counter it with Focus Punch," said Ash.
Pikachu and Fearow charged at each other with their respective attacks and met in the middle of the field. They were trying to overpower the other when suddenly an electric sphere formed at the end of Pikachu's tail much to everyone's shock. Pikachu sent the sphere at Fearow, dealing major damage.
"What was that move," asked Misty.
"That was Electro Ball. There couldn't be a better time for Pikachu to learn it," said Leaf.
"And why is that," asked Misty.
"Because Fearow is paralyzed. Electro Ball is a move whose power depends on how fast Pikachu is," answered Ash.
"So Electro Ball dealt more damage than usual since Fearow's speed has been reduced because of the paralysis," said Brock.
"That's right," confirmed Ash.
"I don't care if that mouse knows a new move. Fearow, use Aerial Ace," ordered Damian.
"Pikachu, counter with Iron Tail and then finish it with Thunderbolt," said Ash.
Fearow charged in with Aerial Ace, but Pikachu countered it with Iron Tail and then fired his Thunderbolt, knocking Fearow out.
"Fearow is unable to battle. Pikachu wins," announced Leaf happily. "The victory goes to my brother, Ash!"
"Yes! You did it, Pikachu," said Ash as he gave the 'Mouse Pokémon' a hug. "I'm proud of you, buddy."
"It was nothing," said Pikachu as he rubbed the back of his head.
"You did it, bro," said Leaf as she joined the hug.
"It wasn't just me. My Pokémon also deserve credit," said Ash with a smile.
"This boy's Pokémon are pretty tough. He saved my life and maybe I can become stronger with him than with Damian," thought Charmander.
"I don't think so," yelled Damian just as he returned Fearow. "I'm still taking Charmander back and you're coming with me!"
Damian reached out for Leaf, but a Flamethrower stopped him in his tracks. Everyone turned at the source and were surprised to see Charmander glaring at Damian.
"Back off, you creep," growled Charmander.
"What do you think you're doing!? You're my Pokémon! You belong to me," shouted Damian as he reached out for a PokéBall.
"I said 'back off'," said Charmander and he unleashed a Flamethrower directly at Damian, scorching him.
"He deserved it," said Greninja.
"Yeah, but I'm done yet," said Ash as he went up to Damian and punched him right in the face, and it was lights out for Damian. "That's for calling my sister a slut earlier."
"Normally I don't approve of people causing physical pain, but Damian totally had it coming," said Brock.
"Thanks for sticking up for me, Ash," said Leaf.
"That's what brothers do," said Ash.
"Ash," called Charmander, which caught the boy's attention.
"What's wrong, Charmander," asked Ash.
"Nothing. I just wanted to thank you for saving my life and dealing with Damian. You were right. He really was a selfish brat," said Charmander. "I was also wondering if I could join you?"
"Of course you can join us," said Ash happily.
"Really? Wait a minute, how did you understand me," asked Charmander.
"Took you a while to realize that," said Greninja with a chuckle.
"I'm an Aura Guardian–in–training. That's how I'm able to understand Pokémon," said Ash, which shocked Charmender.
"I was saved by an Aura Guardian? Awesome," exclaimed Charmander and then looked at Ash. "Do you think I'll become as strong as your other Pokémon?"
"I know you will, Charmander," smiled Ash and he brought out an empty PokéBall. "Ready to officially join the team?"
"You bet," answered Charmander and tapped his hand on the button in the middle of the PokéBall, and was sucked in. The ball shook three times and a 'ding' sounds was heard, signifying the capture.
"Alright, I've got a Charmander," cheered Ash along with Pikachu and Greninja.
"Don't forget to scan it," reminded Leaf and Ash brought Charmander out of his PokéBall and scanned him with the PokéDex.
Charmander, the 'Lizard Pokémon'. The fire on the tip of its tail is a measure of its life. If healthy, its tail burns intensely. Type(s): Fire. Gender: Male. Ability: Blaze. Move(s): Flamethrower, Dragon Rage, Shadow Claw, Smokescreen. Held item: None. Egg move(s): Dragon Rush, Ancient Power. Egg moves have not been unlocked.
"That's an impressive move set," said Ash.
"You really think so," asked Charmander hopefully.
"Yup. We need to work on your speed and looks like more special attack based so we can focus on increasing the power of your special attacks and if we do that it wouldn't surprise me if you learn Ancient Power soon, but it'll take some time," explained Ash.
"I'll do my best," said Charmander and Ash smiled.
"So, shall we get going for Vermilion City," asked Brock.
Yeah, let's go," said Ash and the four, along with Greninja, Pikachu and Charmander continued their way to Vermilion City.
As they walked, Ash was trying to master Aura Sight with some help from Lucario. So with a Pokémon who can use Aura Sight, a human who is getting Aura Sight and a Pokémon with mad ninja skills, it was pretty easy to avoid a pitfall trap. Too bad Ash was so concentrated in using Aura Sight that he forgot to warn Leaf, Brock and Misty, but Greninja managed to stop Leaf and Brock just in time and only Misty fell in.
"MISTY," exclaimed Ash and looked down. "Are you okay?"
"DOES IT LOOK LIKE I'M OKAY," yelled Misty and Lucario used Psychic to lift her up.
"Hey, you messed our prank," a voice yelled from the bushes and out came 5 Squirtle, 1 with pointy shades and the others had circular ones.
"Childish and immature, yet could have hurt someone badly. You 5 are very irresponsible" Lucario said coldly.
"Lucario is right it was childish and immature, why did you do that," Ash asked.
"Why should we tell you," the Squirtle with pointy shades just said and one with circle glasses asked, "Hey did you just understand a Pokémon?"
"Yeah I understand Pokémon," Ash said and the 5 were shocked.
"Can I zap them," Pikachu asked, annoyed that they tried to hurt his trainer.
"I like the sound of that," Greninja said.
Pikachu's cheeks sparked and he let loose a Thunderbolt but one Squirtle with circular glasses took the attack.
"Bro, are you alright," the Squirtle with pointy shades asked.
"Boss, I'm fine," the one with circular shades said and fainted.
"You want this to get ugly, punk," Squirtle said as he stood his ground.
Pikachu got off of Ash's shoulder and stared at the boss Squirtle, "Go ahead, and make my day," Pikachu said and his cheeks sparked again and spat on the side of the road and they started to squint at each other. A piece of tumbleweed came out of nowhere and bounced along in the background.
"Where did the tumbleweed come from," Ash thought but had more pressing matters. "Pikachu stand down, don't attack Squirtle," Ash said and his cheeks stopped sparking but still kept squinting.
A police siren was heard in the background and Boss Squirtle heard that and stopped the standoff. "It's the cops, grab the bro and let's run," he said and the other Squirtle picked up the fallen one and ran as fast as they could away from the scene.
"Well this is odd" Brock said as he watched the whole scene.
Officer Jenny swerved and stopped right in front of them and Ash remembered there are apparently no rules on the road in Kanto. She asked them, "Are you guys alright, has anyone been hurt?"
Brock went in love mode and said, "Even better with you here my dear Jenny" he said and got on one knee but Greninja hit him with Aerial Ace right in the stomach.
"Well, we're fine. No one is hurt, permanently...probably" Ash said as he looked at Brock, who was holding his stomach in pain.
"Wait, don't you remember us from Viridian city," Misty said and Jenny explained. "That would be one of my cousins," and she pulled out a photo with 9 identical officer Jennies. "All of my family is police officers and all of us look identical and we're all named Jenny," she said and Misty had a look of understanding.
"Yeah, we have the same back in Kalos" Ash said. "Maybe we might need to take Brock somewhere to rest," he said as Brock groaned.
"Well, let's go to the police station then," said Jenny and everyone got in the car, and Ash and Greninja held each other, ready for the extreme drive.
As they arrived, Pikachu and Leaf were holding onto Ash and Greninja for dear life.
"From now on, if we need to get somewhere by a car, we're flying on your dragons," said Leaf.
"Sounds like a good idea," said Ash.
When they went inside the station, Brock made a miraculous recovery, and Jenny sat on her desk to explain about the Squirtles. "Those Squirtle call themselves the Squirtle Squad. Those poor Squirtles had been abandoned by their original trainers. They don't have trainers so they just run wild and play tricks on the whole town. If they had someone to care for them then they wouldn't have turned out like this"
"So what are you going to do about them" Ash asked.
"So far the town asked to just get rid of them. They understand what happened to them but there is only so much they can take before they can't afford to pay for damages" Jenny said.
Ash looked down as he couldn't see any other option or idea, those Squirtle's revenge was going to be the end of them if he didn't think of something quick.
Currently the group was at a lake fishing, Ash didn't have any ideas and Misty suggested fishing to try to clear their mind from the problem. Ash was thinking with Leaf, Brock, Pikachu, Greninja and Lucario, but no ideas.
"I got one," Misty said and she reeled in her line but it was a Squirtle. A Squirtle with circular sunglasses and just shot a Water Gun at all of them. Lucario's instincts kicked in and easily stopped the Water Gun with Metal Claw and used Psychic to get the Squirtle.
"If one is here, then the rest are here as well," Ash said and he was right. The other 4 Squirtles came out of bushes and tried to capture Ash, Misty and Brock with lassos but Greninja put a quick end to that with a quick use of Night Slash and Lucario grabbed the Boss Squirtle and Pikachu had an Iron Tail ready.
"Whoa, Pikachu, Lucario, stand down," Ash called.
"He just tried to attack you," Lucario said.
"Yes, but attacking them is not justified until we know why they did it so STAND DOWN," Ash said a bit forcefully and Lucario nodded and put him down.
"We don't need your mercy," Boss Squirtle said defiantly.
"It's not mercy, it's benefit of doubt because unlike what you have been led to believe, most humans have something called a conscience," Ash said back at him.
"I don't buy it," Squirtle said back.
"Really, those shades make you blind," Greninja said and they looked at him. "You regularly terrorize an entire settlement where humans outnumber you badly and yet because of their conscience they know you are hurting them out of the pain inside you so they constantly ask to only let you go, even when they have to pay a lot to fix the damage you make. They have spent a lot of money trying to fix their homes but they still don't want you 5 dimwits to be more hurt then you already are by humans by just having you lot arrested?"
Greninja's comment was cutting deep and the 5 were shocked that they didn't think of that and the Boss Squirtle was gaping that the humans did that.
"Squirtle, just because you have seen 5 bad trainers does not mean that every trainer is evil. People and Pokémon are meant to coexist with each other and sure there will be those who have yet to realize that and act terribly but they don't represent the whole species, just like the behavior of you 5 doesn't mean that every Squirtle on this planet is bad," Ash reasoned. "If you tried to open up a bit, I can guarantee that the people of the town will be your friends," Ash said and the Squirtle were looking at each other.
"Let's focus on the main question, why did you attack us," Lucario said seriously.
"A Meowth and some humans he owned told us to free your Pokémon" the boss Squirtle said.
"Free us from what," Pikachu asked.
"Humans," the Squirtle replied back.
"A Meowth? Did the Meowth speak human language," Ash asked and Boss Squirtle nodded.
"Those jerks just can't stop ruining people's lives," said Greninja.
But they were cut as a series of bombs were being dropped near them and everyone panicked. Luckily there was a cave nearby and everyone ran inside. The Boss Squirtle tripped on his own feet and Ash grabbed him and ran to the cave before the next set hit them.
"ASH! Are you alright," Leaf asked in worry.
Ash was coughing a bit from the smoke he breathed in but he nodded and said he was fine when he could find his voice again.
"You saved me," Boss Squirtle said in shock.
Ash nodded and went out of the cave to hear another ridiculous chant and groaned.
"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"
"Are you morons going to leave me alone? Seriously, you lot don't stand a hair of a chance against me and the amount of money you spend trying is staggering and stupid," Ash yelled at the three idiots in a Meowth hot air balloon.
"We'll leave you alone after we steal all your Pokémon!" Jessie yelled.
"And how do you plan on making them follow orders like drones, seriously any Pokémon you steal will try and break out from you numbskulls," Ash rebutted back.
"T-that's none of your business!" James yelled back.
"Shut it, give us your Pokémon or it's bombs away!" Meowth yelled and saw Greninja glaring at him.
"Listen, pussy cat. If you even make one wrong move, I'll give you a one–way ticket to outer space, called Water Shuriken," threatened Greninja and Meowth translated to Jessie and James, who paled a little and accidentally dropped another set of bombs.
"Lucario, send them back with Psychic," said Ash calmly and Lucario smirked and the crude explosives were covered in a blue glow and sent into the air and back into the Hot Air Balloon.
"AHHH! Meowth get rid of them," Jessie yelled.
Meowth kept throwing them off the balloon but Lucario would just place them back inside, after the fuse was burned the bombs exploded right under Team Rocket and the Balloon exploded.
"They can't do that, it's cheating," Jessie said.
"Why do they keep winning," James asked.
"I wish you two would stop whining," Meowth yelled.
"Team Rocket is blasting off again!" they all yelled as they flew away.
"Ash the forest is on fire!" Brock exclaimed as the forest was hit by the morons initial hits and was burning down, Pokémon were scurrying wildly and panicking.
Jenny pulled up and was frantic. "Kids, are you alright? You need to evacuate now," she said.
"I have an idea," Ash said and turned to the Squirtles. "You all have one heck of a water gun so we need to work together to put out the fire! If we don't the forest will burn down and the Pokémon will lose their homes!" and the Squirtle were surprised but showed looks of determination.
The Boss Squirtle took command. "Bros, let's save the forest," and the other yelled out their names and dispersed. Ash smiled and brought out Salamence and told him to help out with his Hydro Pump.
With the 5 Squirtles, Salamence and Greninja's powerful water attacks plus Lucario using Psychic to limit the spread of the fire and Pikachu, Leaf, Ash, Misty and Brock saving any Pokémon near the fire they managed to avert the crisis in a show of teamwork.
After the fire was put out Ash explained to Jenny what happened and what Team Rocket did to the place and she thanked them all for saving the forest.
"Thanks to your bravery and your actions the town has been saved by you all, please accept this award to thank you for saving our town from the fire," Jenny said in a gathering when they got back to the town and all the Squirtle were awarded medals and coats and were appointed the fire-fighters of the town. They followed Ash's advice and it paid off a lot, despite wrecking the town they did save it and the people acknowledged that and cheered for them, it warmed them greatly to see that they weren't worthless as their trainers told them.
Ash smiled as he saw this but it was time to leave, "Brock, Misty it's time to head to Vermillion. Serena is nearly there and we can make it there soon if we leave now" Ash said and they nodded. They left at midday and one Squirtle noticed that.
After about 30 minutes…
"Seriously, another stalker? Ash this is just nuts," Greninja grumbled.
Boss Squirtle was jumping from bush to bush, trying to stay hidden. Ash reasoned that a shell isn't exactly great for running with and he had to acknowledge that.
"Ok Squirtle, please come out now," Ash said and Squirtle jumped and got out of the bush, rubbing the back of his head.
"Hey, nice weather we're having," Squirtle said slowly.
"Nice weather? Seriously, just ask to join already," Greninja said.
"Umm...err...I WANT TO GET STRONGER," Squirtle said.
"Okay, that was loud and weird," Pikachu said.
"I love my bros but I want to travel and see the world, they knew that and told me to go and get a good human since now we know there are good ones. The only one that came to mind was you and well...," he mumbled.
"Ok, I only catch Pokémon if they want to come with me," Ash said and pulled out a Pokéball and showed it to Squirtle.
"Are you serious, but I tried to attack you and...," he said but Ash interrupted that.
"And you had every reason to. You thought that every human was bad and you wanted to protect everyone while keeping them happy with pranks. It was what you thought and you have the guts to admit you were wrong and go with someone you thought to be the enemy. I'd be an idiot if I didn't want to catch a Pokémon like you," Ash said and Squirtle choked a bit when he heard all Ash said and nodded. He pressed the button on the ball and was sucked in. There was one shake, two, three and then a ding as the Pokémon was caught.
"Well Ash, you have the whole starter set," Brock said while chuckling at that.
"Some people just have all the luck," Leaf said while Ash just laughed. "Well, I'm lucky to get such awesome Pokémon," he said as they continued to Vermillion City.
As they set camp Ash brought Squirtle out before they went to bed.
"Squirtle, I forgot to scan you. This time my excuse is that we were on the road so didn't stop for it," Ash said and took out his Pokédex and scanned him.
Squirtle, the 'Tiny Turtle Pokémon'. It shelters itself in its shell then strikes back with spouts of water at every opportunity. Type: Water. Gender: Male. Ability: Torrent. Moves: Water Pulse, Icy Wind, Rapid Spin, Withdraw, Aqua Tail. Held item: None. Egg Move(s): Aura Sphere, Muddy Water. Egg moves have not been unlocked.
"Okay, that's pretty impressive," said Ash. "Very few Pokémon can actually learn Aura Sphere."
"Well, I am pretty awesome," said Squirtle as he puffed his chest.
"Okay, so first we need to work on your defenses and then on your attack power. We can also work on upgrading your move set. We can turn Icy Wind into Ice Beam, and Rapid Spin into Skull Bash. Also, Water Pulse and Aqua Tail are pretty good, but it wouldn't hurt to learn another water–type move, like Scald or Hydro Pump," said Ash and Squirtle nodded.
"I promise I'll work hard," said Squirtle.
The three starters trained really hard as they were travelling to Vermillion City. In addition to learning stronger moves, each of them learnt one of their respective egg moves.
With some help from Leaf's Ivysaur, Bulbasaur managed to master Take Down, and he also learnt Ingrain. Then, Ash worked on his defenses by withstanding Butterfree's Silver Wind. It took them a while, but eventually Bulbasaur was able to withstand even Pidgeotto's Gust.
Charmander worked mainly on increasing his attack power, but eventually learnt Aerial Ace and his egg move, Ancient Power.
Squirtle worked not only on his attack power, but also on his defenses. As for his move set, he managed to learn Skull Bash and Ice Beam. He also learnt Scald, as well as one of his egg moves – Muddy Water.
As they neared Vermillion City, Ash caught a Krabby at a nearby beach with a pretty good move set, being Stomp, Metal Claw, Bubble Beam and Vice Grip, and his egg moves were Agility and Bide, but Ash decided to train him when they arrive in the city.
After a long trek, they finally made it to Vermillion City and there was only one thing on Ash's mind, reuniting with Serena.
To be continued…
Hey, everyone. I'm very sorry for the long delay, but some unexpected events happened the last couple of weeks. My parents had to go on a business trip for 3 weeks, so I had to look after my little sister by myself. But during that time, my sister broke her arm because of a bully at school, so I had to help her anyway possible. The good news is that my parents came back on Saturday and my sister's arm is almost completely healed.
Anyway, here's the 8th chapter. That's one of the longest chapters in the story so far. Ash got all the starters, and next he and Serena will reunite. He and Leaf will battle Lt. Surge, and here's a little spoiler – Pikachu will learn a new move. I don't know when it'll be uploaded, so I'll see you all again next time. Until then, have a nice day.
R&R