"Alright you guys, we're almost at Violet City, so you know what that means! Time to get our first gym badge!" I called, bouncing up and down as I faced all my Pokémon. "Now, I'm not sure which of you'll I'll be using to battle with as I don't yet know what gym type it is, but I know that no matter what, we all need to be ready! So let's go! Punching one, two, one, two, one two!" I said, starting everything off with punching my fists expertly forwards.
Bulbasaur used his whips to hit the ground in time with my beat whilst Charizard mirrored my movements. Pidgeotto flew up into the air and shot a Razor Wind from each wing in time with my counting whilst Dratini and Eevee bounced from side to side, working on their movements which I was glad to see where beginning to get pretty good. "That's it! Keep up the good work! One, two, one, two!"
"Wow, Ruby's already psyched up." Misty said as she and Brock looked over at my workout session.
"Yeah, she's been training really hard for this ever since we arrived here." Brock said. "Though I can't say the same for someone else." I glanced over to Ash who was bathing in the morning sun, humming under his breath happily with Pikachu taking a nap at his side. Too bad, his loss!
"Okay that was great, now everyone pay attention." I said and they all stepped back into line with a nod of their heads and saying their names to signal they were listening. "It's important to be ready for this battle physically but also mentally, so what I'm going to do now is meditation with you all, okay? I'll show you. It's just like any other time we've relaxed a little only this time, I want you to really focus on your inner chi." I explained, sitting down and crossing my legs.
My Pokémon did the same, sitting down and watched as I curled my fists and pressed them together whilst closing my eyes. "Try and hear the wind, let it guide your breathing so you are one with the world. Let all other thoughts drift from your mind…pay no attention to anything on your exterior…let it all go…" I said in a relaxing tone, emptying my mind of all thought as my Pokémon did the same.
We meditated together, focusing on harnessing our minds so that we were mentally ready for our upcoming battle. There's nothing worse than being too pumped up for a battle and making all textbook mistakes. It'll only put a downer on all the hard work we've done over the last couple of days. "You're doing great everyone, keep focusing. Let all your tension flow out of your body on the exhale." I said. "Breathe in." Everyone took a deep breath and I held it for a moment before exhaling. "And breathe out…" Again they copied and I sensed them all become even more relaxed.
I heard the click of a camera and instantly I knew Ash had got a hold of it again. "Hey Ruby! What you doing?" Ash pestered at my side by I ignored him, despite him taking numerous pictures with my camera.
"Just ignore everything…listen to your inner voice…and not the little pest who is waving a hand in front of my face." I said and Ash pulled back his hand.
"That was creepy. How did you do that?" He asked but I merely smirked ever so slightly.
"Ash, if you're not going to do any training of your own at least let Ruby get on with hers in peace!" Misty hissed, dragging him away by the collar.
"I don't need to do any training, my Pokémon and I are all great just the way we are!" He said proudly before sitting down for breakfast. "Wow Brock, this is REALLY GREAT!" He exclaimed with extra volume to try and irritate me but I didn't let it enter my bubble.
Soon I could no longer hear the wind or the rustle of leaves, just myself and my inner calmness as it washed over my body. Suddenly I felt a pulse go through me and out through the air as if in a blue ripple and I saw an image within my mind of my five Pokémon, each with a certain glow around them.
Pidgeotto was a calm, peaceful pale blue whereas Charizard was crackling with fire, burning bright and hot whereas next to him, my little Eevee, was surrounded in a pink and purple brightness, sparkling sweetly but not overwhelmingly. Next to her sat Dratini who was also bathed in pale blue light, however there was also a shade of violet around her which brought out the softness of both colours. Lastly Bulbasaur was surrounded by a flickering shade of blue with hints of green shining through.
Then all at once it was gone, making me inhale sharply. What was that? It was almost as if I were seeing my Pokémon's inner soul, or their aura or something. Maybe I need to have another talk with Professor Oak.
Slowly I opened my eyes, looking down into my lap as I went over what I had just seen. It was kind of amazing, seeing my Pokémon in a new light like that. In a way the colours signified them perfectly, especially Charizard's flaming hot temper and pride. You should have seen him the other day when Brock said no to more food. He needed to put on new pants after Charizard had burned through the pair he had been wearing.
Shaking my head I smiled and picked up my flute, pressing it to my lips then began to play. Instantly I saw each of my Pokémon smile, listening to the tune I played them to help them relax. I played through the melody twice, letting it ring with the sounds of nature until finally, I was ready to get up and get going. "Alright guys, I think we're ready." I said, nodding my head to them as they stood up and looked at me. "I know you'll all be amazing and I'll do my best not to let you down, so let's do this!"
I punched the air with a leap as my Pokémon rushed at me, making me squeal as I suddenly had five Pokémon all climbing around me to shower me with affection and reassurance. I laughed and giggled, holding Dratini up in the air as she sang at me, Eevee and Bulbasaur licking my face as Pidgeotto grabbed my hat in her talons and pecked at my hair and Charizard nuzzled my belly with his snout. "Guys! That tickles!" I laughed, unable to stay still as they continued to show me the love. "Okay! I love you all too! Ha ha, stop it!" I squealed again then began to return them before I started to cry from the laughter. "I'll see some of you out on the battlefield, let's make this a great battle!" I said before standing up, ensuring all the Pokéballs were secured before I head over for breakfast.
When we got to Violet City I was a sack of nerves, constantly swallowing down lumps and when we got the gym itself, my knees began to shake. The tall tower was set up almost like a spiral with numerous windows all gazing down like eyes, peering closely. I gulped again.
"This is pretty impressive." Brock admired as everyone stared upwards.
"It's even better than I thought it'd be." Ash agreed.
"I can't wait to see the inside!" Misty answered but I just groaned.
"I need to hurl." Swaying on my feet slightly I felt my stomach lurch as Ash grabbed my wrist and yanked me forwards.
"Come on! I can't wait to find the gym leader so I can win my first Johto League badge, and neither can you Ruby so let's go!"
"If you say so…" I groaned, feeling my stomach twist uncomfortably. This was really nerve racking. What if the gym leader is too strong for me? What if I can't handle it? No, no that's not the way to think. Just calm down Ruby and trust your Pokémon. It'll all work out in the end, you'll see. They're strong and so are you, stronger than anyone else in the world! Yeah!
"Not so fast!"
"Huh?" Ash stopped short and I ploughed into him at his sudden change in pace, meaning the back of his head hit the front of mine.
"Watch it Ash!" I shot at him, gripping my nose but then turned to look at the person who'd stopped us. "What is it?" There were two of them, dressed up in smart uniforms with glasses on their noses, shining so brightly that I couldn't see their eyes.
"We heard what you just said but before you challenge the Violet Gym Leader to a Pokémon battle we have a few questions for you." The woman said, smirking at us.
"All challengers are required to participate in our little survey." Her male counterpart continued and I frowned.
"What kind of survey?" Ash and I asked together.
"Excuse me but are you connected with the gym in some way?" Misty asked politely.
"Don't we look like we're connected to the gym?" I shook my head.
"Not really, you look more like the kind of people who would take my order at a pizza restaurant." I replied. Obviously they didn't like my answer because their tones grew a little more impatient.
"Ugh! The nerve! Now if you'll kindly surrender all your Pokémon you are required to allow us to do a health check on them all." The lady said, stepping forwards with her hands on her hips to peer at Pikachu.
"We have to be sure they meet all Violet City standards." Her companion explained before she reached out and grabbed Pikachu.
"We'll start with this one." She decided, carrying him away to her companion as Ash took a step forwards to try and follow but stopped, deciding not to interrupt. "What do you think?"
"Just as I suspected, another Grade B Pikachu. It's all bleary eyed and blubbery." He sighed, shaking his head. Now wait a minute! Pikachu is as healthy as they come, Nurse Joy said so only a few days ago! Who are they calling blubbery?
"Okay, I think you should return Pikachu to Ash now." I said. "You've done your little check-up, so there shouldn't be a problem. Pikachu is a healthy specimen, anyone could see that even if they didn't know the first thing about Pokémon care." I stepped forwards with Ash but they shook their heads.
"I'm afraid we'll have to confiscate it." Okay, now I know this is a setup. No one is allowed to confiscate another's Pokémon. It's against the law! I think. Still! "Bye!"
"Hey wait a second!" Ash yelled as they ran off.
"Our ride's waiting!" They trilled over their shoulder and we all raced to try and catch up.
"Ash, you really need to stop letting people just pick up your Pikachu." I said to him as we ran but we were cut off short when we saw a familiar balloon shoot out into the sky. "Agh! Team Rocket!"
"Prepare for trouble it's too late for you!"
"And make it double, we've got Pikachu!" They both crowed as the balloon rose up into the air, Pikachu locked away in some sort of dome case as Team Rocket began to recite their motto. With them distracted I looked around, searching for a way up to them and saw a car, a lamppost and a jump between that and the balloon. Right!
I raced forwards, sneaking off silently whilst turning my neckerchief around, showing the severity of the matter. This meant business. I climbed up onto the car then scurried up the lamp quickly, swinging up onto the top then waited, poised and ready before springing forwards just as Meowth jumped up into view.
"Meowth that's right!"
"Sneak attack!" I yelled as I was in the air then grabbed onto the side of the balloon, making everyone yell as it tipped to the side, my weight dragging it off course and Jessie lost her grip on Pikachu's cage. "Pikachu!" I cried out and let go with one hand, grabbing the case then smiled. "Hey there! Glad I dropped by?" I asked and he beamed up at me.
"Pikachu!"
"Way to go Ruby!" Brock yelled down. "Now hang on! It's too far to drop!" I looked down and almost screamed. Yeah, Brock was kind of right with that one. If I let go then it would definitely be a few broken bones and a fractured skull, not to mention what might happen to Pikachu.
"What do you think you're doing twerp?!" Jessie yelled, appearing overhead. "Give back that Pikachu!"
"No way!" I yelled back at her.
"Hand it over, or we make you let go." Meowth threatened, brandishing his claws and with both hands occupied, I couldn't call out for a Pokémon since they were all sleeping and unlikely to hear me.
"If you make me let go then Pikachu goes with me!" I tried, closing my eyes and looking away, waiting for the Scratch attack but surprisingly, Meowth saw sense.
"Hm, the kid's right. Alright then, grab it!" I yelled in fear, feeling the box sway as all three of them tried to reach for Pikachu so I let him slip between my knees and grounded him there so I could hold onto the box with both hands as my other was slipping.
"Heracross go!" Ash yelled. Finally! "Heracross, go help Ruby quick!" Heracross flew up into the air but Team Rocket stopped to peer over the side, blinking before giggling maliciously.
"If the twerps think Heracross can stop us then they've got another thing coming." Meowth said as they left me along for a moment and he ducked down to pick up a jar of golden gloop. "Some Grade A super sap for the super sad." He said then dropped the jar.
"No! Don't fall for it Heracross!" I yelled but sure enough the moment the jar split open Heracross dove down and began to suck it all up. "Heracross! I swear I'll never make you sap cookies again!" I bellowed, struggling to hold my grip. "Charizard! Charizard I need you!" But no answer. "Pidgeotto!"
"Can it kid, your Pokémon can't hear you from inside their Pokéball." Jessie said, grinding her fingers into my head. "If we can't get Pikachu back then we'll have to drag the twerp inside too. James help me! She's slippery!" I struggled against them, refusing to be dragged in but by now my arms were beginning to ache.
I looked down, judging the height. If I let go then I might just about have enough time to send out Charizard before we landed if he took a dive steep enough but then maybe not. This is not good, I don't want to die right before my first gym battle!
"It's okay Pikachu, I'll get you out of this." I said to him as Jessie and James clawed at my arms, trying to haul me inside. "I'll never let you go to these freaks, okay? You can trust me on that one."
"Pika…" He said to me with worry, hands pressed up against the glass. Suddenly a Hoothoot appeared, chirping happily at me then easily grabbed the hook at the top of Pikachu's case then flew away with him.
"Hey you get back here! That's my friend's Pikachu!" I yelled, letting go with one hand to try and grab it back but instantly I felt my fingers slip and let go of the hold I had. "Argh!" Suddenly I had three pairs of hands grabbing onto my arm.
"Oh no you don't twerp, you're not getting away from us that easily." Jessie grunted. "Arbok! Use your Poison Sting attack and send that glider into a tailspin!" She ordered just as they managed to drag me inside. Instantly I was relieved, but then I was pressed for space as Arbok began to shoot Poison Sting down at the glider that had taken Pikachu, tearing through its widespread fabric.
"No! Don't! You'll hurt Pikachu if it crash lands!" I yelled, leaping to the front and made the basket sway violently.
"Hey! Stop that you twerp! You'll send us overboard!" The three of them yelled at me all at once but I paid them no mind, watching as the guy who was flying got out of there quickly, still holding onto Pikachu.
Suddenly he threw out a Pokéball and a Pidgeot appeared, one far bigger than any I have ever seen before. The trainer landed on its back and it flew straight for us. "Jump!" He called out to me, stretching out a hand and without even waiting to reply, I made to spring overboard but Jessie yanked me back.
"I don't think so. If we're going down then you're coming with us." She growled as I struggled to break free.
"I wouldn't count on it!" I said then stamped on her foot.
"YEOOOW! Ow, ow, ow that hurt!" She yelled and with me now free, I leaped over the side as the Pidgeot tore through the balloon. Now…I was falling.
"WAAARGH!" I yelled, arms and legs flailing as I tried to twist around and reach a Pokéball. "CHARIZARD! PIDGEOTTO! ANYONE!" Suddenly I landed in someone's arms, securing me down as I heard a flap of wings either side of me. "Huh?"
"Relax." The strange hand glider guy said then smiled gently at me. "We've got you now."
"Oh…thanks." I said, blinking up at him then sat up a little to watch Pidgeot land gracefully, stretching out its neck to ruffle its feathers as the stranger leaped off with me still in his arms and I just sat there uselessly. "Um…you can put me down now." I told him and he nodded his head.
"I hope you are alright."
"Me? Oh I'm fine." I said with a blush as I stepped back and away from him, letting him hand Pikachu back over to Ash who instantly laughed with relief. "Thanks again. I'm probably going to go somewhere alone so I can think over how humiliating that was and cry in shame." I said with a shrug. "But otherwise yeah, I'm great." He gave a soft, mellow laugh then nodded his head.
"Wow, am I glad you're on our side." Ash said as he hugged Pikachu. "One more loss for Team Rocket, right Pikachu?"
"Pikachu!" He agreed just as the Hoothoot returned, landing on the stranger's shoulder as he looked to his two Pokémon.
"We're always happy to help out a fellow Pokémon trainer aren't we?" He said whilst looking to his Pokémon and both Hoothoot and Pidgeot nodded their heads and chirped in agreement.
"I've never seen a Pidgeot fly that fast." Misty said as I admired the bird Pokémon myself. I wonder if Pidgeotto will ever become that big one day.
"Yeah and it's a lot bigger than the Pidgeot I used to have." Ash said and the stranger smiled.
"Oh did you used to have a Pidgeot?"
"Sure did." Ash nodded his head as he though back with pride. "We even got into a battle with a Fearow. It was attacking a whole bunch of Pidgeotto and Pidgey not far from Pallet Town so once we took care of the Fearow, I let it stay to help protect the flock." Ash explained then gave a wistful smile. "Someday…I'll go back and see my old friend."
"I can tell by the way you talk about it you had a real bond with your Pidgeot." The nice guy said sympathetically and Ash grinned.
"Course I did, I'll never forget the feeling of flying around on its back and battling over the Viridian Forest!"
"I know what you mean." He agreed, eyes focused on Ash before they turned up to the sky. "If there's one thing better than watching a Pidgeot in the sky then it's flying around with it. They are reliable, trustworthy and very brave Pokémon."
"Just like my Pidgeotto!" I beamed. "There's not a more loyal friend I can trust more than my Pidgeotto! Except my other Pokémon of course, and you guys." Misty gave a little laugh as she smiled at me.
"You got it!" She cheered then turned back to our new found friend. "I guess flying types must be your favourite, huh?"
"They are." He nodded his head, looking around to his Hoothoot with pride. "Someday I want to be known as the best flying Pokémon trainer that ever lived." He explained but Brock seemed a little confused.
"Why do you like flying types so much?" He asked so the stranger pointed to the sky.
"That's why. I've always wanted to fly through the sky. When I was a little boy all I ever did was dream about flying, and now that I have flying Pokémon I can." I know what he meant. When I was little I always used to gaze up at the stars and dream of flying up to them so I could reach out and touch one, and now I can.
"That must be why you started hand gliding." Ash reasoned and the stranger turned back to us with a smile.
"Well I really started gliding so I could understand my flying Pokémon better."
"That's a great idea!" Ash blinked and I nodded my head. It was, maybe I should give it a go someday. It sounds and looks like a lot of fun!
"I suppose you've heard a lot of trainers say that flying Pokémon don't stand a chance against electric Pokémon. It makes me so mad when people put down flying Pokémon!" I blinked at his sudden enthusiasm, starting slightly but quickly recovered as Misty lifted her head and stepped forwards.
"Good for you! My favourite Pokémon are water types and it always seems like people are underestimating them the same way! Hm. Some people really need to smarten up and see how great water Pokémon really are." She said proudly and I laughed nervously.
"We got it Misty and we agree, water Pokémon are great." I said to her. "Just don't blow a top over it, okay?" I tried gently so she exhaled.
"You're right." Ash turned and held out his hand in greeting to the stranger, shaking his hand.
"These are my friends Misty, Brock and Ruby, my name is Ash."
"And I'm Falkner, the Violet City gym leader. Hi."
"What?!" We all yelped, jaws going slack as we stared at him in shock. We've just been talking casually on the street with the city gym leader? And we're supposed to battle him in just a few minutes?! Sheesh, now I'm definitely ready to die with shame. The guy had to catch me from falling! Shaking out my head I looked at him.
"So wait, you're the city gym leader? Here? In Violet City?" Falkner nodded his head.
"Yeah. Sorry, probably should have mentioned that earlier." I groaned and fell to my knees, gripping my hat to hide my face.
"This is not going to plan…" I muttered under my breath as the others just looked at me.
"Well you see, we're actually here so we can challenge you to a battle." Ash explained. "Ruby and I, we're entered in the Johto League, so we're here to collect a badge." He said confidently, hoisting me to my feet despite me swaying, anchoring an arm around my shoulders. "And we're not leaving until we both get that badge!"
"Well, this is a surprise. Come on in, all of you. I accept your challenges so let's get this thing going." He turned to his Pokémon and gave a proud nod to them both. "Pidgeot, Hoothoot, return. Good work today." With that he led us on inside.
I barely saw my surroundings, I just focused on putting one foot in front of the other without tripping. I made it all the way to the elevator before I did so. With a yelp I tumbled inside, somehow managing to grip the side and keep myself from further embarrassment.
"Hey Ruby, what's wrong with you today? Normally it's me falling over my own feet!" Ash tried to joke but I just glared at him.
"For your information, genius, I'm very, very nervous!" I yelled, smacking him on the back of his head. "So quit your jabbering because it's giving me a headache too!"
"Hey, calm down will you? It's just a gym battle, we're not at the Johto League yet!" Oh thanks Ash, that made things just so much worse.
"Thanks genius. Now I feel totally calm!" I growled at him, shaking slightly at the knees.
"Oh yeah? Why don't you just do your stupid meditation thing then? At least I'll get some peace and quiet to myself!"
"Peace and quiet? You're the one who won't stop talking! And it's not a stupid meditation thing!" I yelled back but then we both stopped, blinking as we realised we were only inches apart before looking to the other three who were just staring at us.
"Is this normal?" Falkner asked and Misty sighed.
"This is mild." She answered so I stood in the corner, not saying another word as I worked on calming myself down.
"This is a little weird." Falkner admitted as the elevator carried us to the top. "Normally I don't make friends with the trainers who come here before I have to battle them. But a match is a match and we have to battle hard, friends or not."
"Yeah! Definitely!" Ash nodded his head.
"You got that right." I said from my corner before going quiet again. The doors pinged and I looked up to find we were on the roof of the building, the bright sunlight flooding through as Falkner stepped forwards.
"Well, this is it." When we stepped outside I stared at the large battlefield with wide open air and sky all around us. "Welcome to the Violet Gym!" He said as he stood before a group of young trainers, all of them clothed in a simple grey clothing.
"Looks like his cheering section." Misty said slowly and nervously.
"Hey Ash, Ruby, you both okay?" Brock asked and Ash instantly answered.
"Sure I'm okay! We came to win a badge, not a popularity contest, right Pikachu?"
"Pi…ka!" He agreed, looking as determined as Ash did.
"So, which of you shall I battle first?" Falkner asked, glancing between Ash and I so I shoved him forwards.
"Oh look at that! Ash volunteers, good job, well done and good luck!" I said before speeding to take a seat in the stands. "You go Ash!" I called as the others just stared at me.
"Ha, she's a little nervous." Ash excused so I shouted back over to him.
"I heard that Ash Ketchum! I am not nervous! I'm just letting you warm Falkner up for me to battle him!" Everyone laughed, shaking their heads so I took a deep breath and went back into my meditation pose, inhaling and exhaling deeply until my heart rate was at a reasonably normal pace.
"This official Johto League battle between Ash the challenger from Pallet Town and Falkner the Violet Gym Leader will now begin! At stake is the Zephyr badge! Each will use two Pokémon! Begin the match when ready." The referee called so Ash smirked.
"I'm ready, and you better be ready too!" Ash called with perfect ease and confidence. How does he do it? "Ready to hand me over a badge!"
"I wouldn't count on that my friend. There's a reason I'm the Violet City Gym Leader, and having seen what my flying Pokémon have done for you, now you're going to see what they do to you!" With that he flung out a Pokéball and released none other than Hoothoot. Please be sensible Ash and don't underestimate it.
"That's no surprise. But I have a surprise for him. I choose you! Chikorita!" I slapped my brow. Why do I even bother trying to telepathically tell him not to be dumb? He never listens to me anyway. Chikorita appeared from her Pokéball but the moment she was free she leaped onto Ash's shoulder and nuzzled him with affection, making him cringe. "Ugh! Don't embarrass me…" He pleaded.
"Bad choice." Falkner said and they both looked at him. "I thought you of all people would have known that grass Pokémon are weak against flying Pokémon. How could you forget that if you used to have a Pidgeot?" What can I say? It's Ash. Sometimes he just takes you by storm and surprise.
"Yeah? Well I thought you of all people would have known that you don't always judge by type!" Ash returned smartly and I began to smile. Go Ash! Nice comeback!
"Chika!" In some ways I guess Chikorita was a great choice, since she was so adoring towards Ash, she'd do anything to make him happy. Including doing her best to help win him a badge.
"Begin!" A drum beat was sounded and the match started.
"Well, if you know so much then you make the first move." Falkner said as his Hoothoot stood before him on one leg. It was a sweet looking Pokémon and rather cute the way it stood like that, but it'll have to be tough to be able to compete with Chikorita on spunk alone.
"Okay! Chikorita, Vine Whip attack!"
"Chika!" Her vines shot out and snapped towards Hoothoot with alarming speed.
"Hoothoot, fly away!" The little bird Pokémon flew up into the sky just as Chikorita's whips slapped the ground.
"We can't let him get away. Try your Vine Whip again!" Ash encouraged and Chikorita focused on the Hoothoot.
"Hoothoot! Fly away from that Vine Whip and then dive!" Falkner yelled, suddenly becoming serious. You can just tell how much he loved flying type Pokémon and it looked like he'd trained them hard, because next thing you knew Chikorita had been smacked aside with a Tackle attack. "Now Hoothoot, knock out that grass Pokémon with your Peck attack!" Ouch, not nice. Poor Chikorita! Do something Ash! Do it now!
"Come on Chikorita, battle back with Razor Leaf attack!" Chikorita leaped back for space and flung its leaf around, sending out a number of sharply spinning leaves but Falkner easily countered.
"Hoothoot climb!" Hoothoot rose higher into the air and dodged the attack almost too easily. "Finish it off Hoothoot! Go into a dive and Tackle it at top speed!"
"Chikorita get out of the way!" Ash called and Chikorita smartly leaped to the side, avoiding the hit.
"Do it again Hoothoot and this time, don't let it get away!" Hoothoot climbed up then dove down, spiralling slightly as it aimed down directly for Chikorita.
"Look out Chikorita! Use Vine Whip before it gets you!" Chikorita hurried and smacked out a Vine Whip but Hoothoot was too agile in the air and easily avoided them, finishing the attack by tackling Chikorita to the ground.
"Agh! Chikorita's hit!" Ash yelled then ran over to her. "Chikorita!" He picked her up and held her gently in his arms, smiling down to her. "You put up a great battle Chikorita." He said to her with pride.
"Chikorita is unable to battle, Hoothoot is the winner!" Ash returned Chikorita to the Pokéball and stood up, unfazed by the loss.
"You deserve a good rest Chikorita." He informed her then stood up to face Falkner again.
"I warned you." He said with a smirk on his face. "Your grass Pokémon can't compete with flying Pokémon." This only made Ash angrier and I could sense it from within him, growing bigger until he turned to Pikachu with a growl.
"You're up next Pikachu, let's show them what we can do!"
"Pikachu!" He nodded his head then walked onto the battlefield, cheeks sparking brightly. I started to become bothered by how angry and unfocused Ash was. He wasn't thinking straight and this could lead him to lose.
"Begin!" The ref called and the drum was struck.
"Take out that Pikachu with your Tackle attack Hoothoot!" But Ash was beginning to get back on the ball.
"Go Pikachu! Use your Agility so Hoothoot can't tackle you!" Pikachu darted forwards then disappeared, running so fast that Hoothoot couldn't predict where Pikachu was going to strike.
"Hoothoot! Climb before it uses electricity!"
"Pikachu, use your Thunderbolt!" Ash answered and Pikachu instantly sent out the bolt.
"Hoothoot!" Falkner cried, watching in horror as despite Hoothoot's climb, it was struck by the powerful bolt and it fell from the sky.
"Alright Pikachu, let's finish it off with a Quick Attack!"
"Pika!" Pikachu raced forwards, looking determined before he ploughed into Hoothoot, sending it flying back into Falkner's arms as he gasped and held his Pokémon to him.
"Hoothoot are you okay?" He asked with genuine worry and I smiled. Nice guy. Not too bad, just a little serious with his battling. Ash on the other hand, he was growing cocky now and I knew it was going to start leading to mistakes soon unless he got to grips with things.
"Pikachu is the winner!" The ref called and I looked up, finding myself to be surprisingly calm. I wasn't nervous anymore! That's great, with one more win Ash will have his Zephyr badge and then it's my turn.
"You did well Hoothoot, you deserve a good long rest." Looking up once Hoothoot had returned to its Pokéball, Falkner smiled. "Alright, time for a surprise!" With that he sent out his next Pokéball and his Pokémon was revealed to be…a Dodrio? Wow that's so awesome! I love this guy!
"It's a Dodrio!" Ash started backwards slightly, staring at the three headed bird Pokémon.
"Unfortunately for you, none of my opponents have ever defeated Dodrio. When they start to battle trainers see how three heads are much worse than one." Falkner said confidently.
"I'm not scared! Everyone knows that Dodrio can't fly." Ash returned so I sighed, standing up.
"You gotta remember Ash, Dodrio are fast and have strong legs to jump! Don't be fooled by its lack of flight!" I called over to him. "So get your head out of the clouds and concentrate, focus on the battle and not what's lying at the end of it. If you don't keep your eye on what's happening now then you'll lose out on a win!"
"Right, got it!" Ash said, nodding his head then turned back to the battle.
"Begin!" The drum thumped and the match was officially started.
"We'll let him make the first move." Falkner decided and his Dodrio nodded their three heads with a squawk.
"Okay Pikachu your Agility worked before so let's try it again!" He decided so Pikachu darted forwards.
"You heard him Dodrio so use your Agility too!" Dodrio began matching Pikachu move for move, not letting up any pace to keep up with the smaller Pokémon. Hey, I did say Dodrio were fast.
"Okay Pikachu that Dodrio may be fast but it can't run away from your Thunderbolt!" Pikachu got the message and started to power up, focusing on Dodrio who continued to use Agility.
"Don't try to run Dodrio! Fly away!" Dodrio leaped up into the air, missing the Thunderbolt cleanly. "Keep it up now Dodrio, use Fury Attack!" Dodrio fell down to the ground and instantly pecked at Pikachu, sending him flying backwards.
"Hang in there!" Ash encouraged, clenching his fists.
"Go Dodrio! Get ready to flatten it!" Dodrio sprang up into the air again, higher than before even! "That's it Dodrio, now use Drill Peck!" I leaped up and yelled.
"Concentrate Ash! Focus on the match!" Ash blinked and somehow, jump started into motion.
"Go Pikachu, Thunder attack!" Pikachu opened his eyes as Dodrio got closer in range, the hit almost landing but then he let loose a powerful set of bolts, jumping across the air and ground with extra power to boot. The bolts hit Dodrio and they squawked in shock, their Drill Peck attack cancelled out as Pikachu kept up the power before letting them drop.
They sizzled slightly, swaying from the strong dose of Pika-Power. Alright! "Dodrio! Back on your feet and use Tri-Attack!" Uh oh, we're in trouble!
"Don't give up Pikachu!" Ash suddenly said, calmly encouraging Pikachu as the three heads began to bring forward their attack. "Jump just like Dodrio!" Pikachu narrowed his eyes, spreading his arms then leaped up into the air, using Dodrio's head as a spring and stopped their attack as they looked up in confusion, Falkner gasping in shock.
"Dodrio!"
"Now, finish it off with another Thunder attack Pikachu!" Ash called and Pikachu instantly channelled all his energy into the one single bolt, sending it down to Dodrio in a super effect critical hit! Sweet!
"Alright! Go Pikachu!" I yelled as Misty and Brock laughed happily, watching as Dodrio dropped to the ground, knocked out. Yay! Ash won! Ash won! Ash wo-wait, doesn't that mean…oh no, it's my turn now!
"Pikachu is the winner of this match and the battle is over! The victor is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town." Ash blinked then punched the air.
"We did it! My first gym battle victory in Johto!" He cheered and Pikachu sat down, taking a deep breath to then exhale in relief. "You did it Pikachu! You were awesome buddy." Ash said and Pikachu pricked up his ears, turning with a smile to Ash.
"Pika?" Pikachu jumped into Ash's arms and the two celebrated with a joyous hug as I walked over.
"Great going Ash, you sure did Pallet Town proud." I said before smiling and lifting my fist in a determined stance. "But now allow me to show you how things are really done." With that I turned and faced Falkner. "I'm ready when you are." I said, picking up my first Pokéball. "Unless you want to quit now whilst you still can."
"Not on your life. Don't worry little girl, I'll make this quick so you can go back to your playhouse." He teased and I rolled my eyes, waiting until the drum had been struck and the signal given to begin. "Alright, you're up Fearow, I chose you!" A Fearow huh? This could be a good one.
"Alright Eevee! Time to shine!" I called and she came out with a shake of her coat and a firm stance on the ground.
"Vee!"
"I know you can do it Eevee, I have faith in you." I said to her with a confident smile. "Let's do this!" The Fearow gave a loud squawk, flapping its wings extra hard to try and intimidate Eevee but the challenge only made her want to battle more.
"Ladies first." Falkner said with a slight mocking bow so I curtseyed back to him.
"Why thank you, how kind." I said then looked down to Eevee. "Alright Eevee, let's start things up with Dig!"
"What?!" Falkner blinked then stared as Eevee dug underground.
"That's right. You think I didn't plan for this battle the moment I knew what type Pokémon you used?" I questioned then placed my hands on my hips. "Ash's battle gave me time to study your technique and strategy. Now I've formulated my own to counter it. Let's see how well I studied, shall we? Go Eevee!"
Eevee rose up from the ground directly underneath Fearow and just as I expected, Falkner commanded Fearow to rise even higher. "Now use Swift Eevee! Good girl!" Eevee directed her Swift up into the air, making a direct hit with Fearow's belly as Eevee then dropped back to the ground and jumped back to face Fearow.
"Fearow, use Fury Attack!"
"Dodge it, quick Eevee! Then use Shadow Ball!" Eevee leaped out of the way of Fearow who swooped back into the air as Eevee focused and produced a Shadow Ball and shot it into the air. Fearow expertly banked to the right to avoid it then curved back around.
"Fearow, take out this little pipsqueak with Ariel Ace!"
"Dig Eevee!" I called quickly and Eevee dug underground just as Fearow sped over her, missing by inches so I exhaled with relief. "You can do it Eevee, just pop out and then use Swift again!" Eevee shot out from the ground and aimed Swift upwards, not knowing where Fearow was flying but then the stars swerved around to strike Fearow regardless.
"Woah! How did that happen?" Ash asked in shock so Brock explained.
"Swift is an attack that never misses its target. The only way you can avoid being hit by it is by counteracting it." A fact I know all too well. I smirked, taking a deep breath as I told myself not to get cocky. This is far from over.
"Fearow, Ariel Ace now before it lands!" Falkner had already shouted and before I could do anything Fearow had struck my Eevee with the double attack, flying twice over to knock her down as she cried out then crashed into the ground.
"Eevee?! Eevee! Can you get up? Please get up Eevee!" I called, stretching out a hand prepared to run to her as she trembled and struggled to her feet.
"Fearow, finish this with Drill Peck." I growled, shooting a glare at Eevee as she stood.
"Just stand there Eevee, wait for my signal." I said to her. "It's time to play your favourite game." Eevee's ears pricked up in understanding and she nodded her head, preparing to spring forwards.
"Vee!" I watched as Fearow flew down in a steep dive, aiming straight for Eevee who twitched, making to jump.
"Not yet." I quickly stopped her. "Just wait." A few seconds more and then we were there. "Now!" Eevee sprang off the ground and jumped onto Fearow's body, racing along it then leaped up into the air with a happy expression as she twisted around.
"Now Shadow Ball!" I called and Eevee instantly threw down the attack, hitting Fearow square on as she landed and faced it as it pounded into the ground.
"No! Fearow!" But Fearow was down and out of the match, thanks to Eevee!
"Fearow is unable to battle. The match goes to Eevee!" I cheered and punched the air with the others, praising Eevee for her great work.
"Way to go Eevee! You were so great!" I told her as she bounced around and pranced on her feet, happily chanting her name.
"Vee! Eevee Vee! Vee! Eevee Vee!" I laughed, smiling to her then winked.
"Okay now, we've still got one more opponent to beat and I think I can guess you that'll be." I said, looking up at Falkner as he gave a soft murmur to his Fearow.
"A good match. I'll admit, I underestimated that little Eevee of yours. You've taught and raised it well." Falkner commented so I smiled and bowed my head respectfully.
"Thank you, your Pokémon are amazing too. They sure put up a tough fight." I said but then looked at Eevee with worry. She'd taken a lot of damage from that hit, I don't think she'd be able to take much more so I'll have to rely on her evasiveness to try and keep up with the next Pokémon, who sure enough was Pidgeot.
"Pidgeot, I choose you!" Falkner called and his magnificent Pidgeot flew out and spiralled in the sky.
"Begin!"
"Pidgeot, use Quick Attack!" Falkner called so I quickly turned to Eevee.
"Use Dig to burrow as many holes as you can!" I said and instantly she dived under, burrowing down and avoided Pidgeot's attack as she then leaped up from the ground into the air then dived back down again.
"What is she doing?" Falkner frowned, gritting his teeth as Eevee filled the battlefield with holes.
"Alright Eevee, use Swift from underground!" I called and everyone gasped. Stars shot out from all of the holes, rising up into the sky and struck Pidgeot who took the hits with pride, taking the damage without even trying to escape as Eevee popped her head up and beamed proudly at me.
"Vee!"
"Nice one Eevee." I nodded my head. "You're doing great."
"Pidgeot, use Razor Wind! Don't let that Eevee escape you!" I gasped, turning upwards to see Pidgeot as it smacked the air with its wings and sent harsh gusts of winds down at Eevee who flew backwards from the force, calling out as she curled up then was struck again.
"You can do it Eevee, land on your feet!" I yelled over the wind to her, holding up a hand to protect my eyes but I watched as she twisted and tried to fight back against the wind, clenching her jaw and grounding her feet.
"Now use Quick Attack before it can escape underground again." Falkner said calmly and Pidgeot instantly dived down with blinding speed.
"Eevee!" Eevee cried out as she was hit directly, flying through the air and I gasped, leaving my box to race out to the side and I jumped, catching her in my arms.
"Eevee! Eevee are you okay?" I asked, reaching out and stroking her face softly as she remained still in my arms, whimpering slightly.
"Vee…Vee…"
"Eevee is unable to battle. The winner is Pidgeot!" I ignored them, focused on Eevee who slowly took a deep breath then looked at me, giving me her signature floppy smile which made me smile in relief.
"I'm really proud of you Eevee." I said as I picked up her Pokéball. "You take a long rest now. You deserve it for sure."
"Vee…" She sighed softly as I let her return then looked up to Falkner.
"Alright, so this isn't over yet. How about I introduce you to my oldest friend?" I suggested then stretched out my arm, sending the Pokéball forwards with all the force I could muster. "Go Pidgeotto!"
"Pidgeo!" She greeted then flew a circle around me, making me giggle.
"I know it's exciting but you have to concentrate, okay?" Falkner stared at my Pidgeotto then laughed.
"You're really going to use a Pidgeotto against my Pidgeot, its own evolved form?" I nodded my head determinedly.
"That's right. I have a strong bond with Pidgeotto and she's tougher and stronger than she looks. She's fast too. I bet she can match your Pidgeot for speed because I trained her well!" I answered back with heat to my words. "Let's do this!" The ref nodded then lifted his hands.
"Begin!" With the sound of the drum I was already moving.
"Pidgeotto! Use Quick Attack!" Falkner gave a short laugh, shaking his head.
"You use Quick Attack too Pidgeot." The two went head to head and I bit my lip. It all depended on who had the greater speed as to who hit first, though it looked pretty close. Both Pokémon flew at one another with all speed, not backing down until finally they collided, both impacting at the same time. Hey! That means Pidgeotto really does match Pidgeot for speed! Alright!
"Pidgeotto, shake it off! Let's use Sand Attack!" Pidgeotto flew to the ground and used her speed to whip up the sand which billowed into Pidgeot's face, clouding its vision so I moved quickly. "Now use Wing Attack!"
"Pidgeot, blow that sand away with Razor Wind!" The dust cloud was swept away in a flash and Pidgeot looked around for Pidgeotto but she wasn't anywhere in front. "Look out! It's coming from behind!" Pidgeot turned around in time to receive a full Wing Attack to the front, knocking it out of the sky but it quickly recovered and was soaring back in the air again, chasing after Pidgeotto.
"Nice try but your little tricks aren't going to work on us. Now Pidgeot, use Razor Wind again!"
"Double Team!" Pidgeotto multiplied and formed a ring of forms around Pidgeot, moving out of the way of the Razor Wind then arced down, rising up from above. "Now Quick Attack!"
"Dodge it!" Amazingly Pidgeot did so, using its own speed to soar upwards then spiral around to slice through any remaining fake Pidgeotto's, leaving the real one open for the strike. It was a tough battle, I was barely keeping up and now Pidgeotto was taking some serious hits. That last Wing Attack had grounded her, leaving her on the ground where she struggled to get back up.
"Come on Pidgeotto, I know you can do it. You're just as good as any Pidgeot, better even! You know why?" I said and she looked at me. "Because you're my Pidgeotto, my first friend! My only friend all the way through preschool and up until I started this Pokémon journey. You're the one who has always been there for me each step of the way and now I'm here for you." I said, gazing into her eyes with utter love and belief. "You can do it."
With that Pidgeotto turned to face Pidgeot, a new fire burning in her eyes. This meant business now, Pidgeotto was proud about her honour and now, she was going to defend it. "Alright! So we can't beat them with strength, so let's outsmart them. "Pidgeotto! Use Twister and direct it down into the holes Eevee made for us!" Everyone oohed and leaned forwards, watching as Pidgeotto sprung up into the air with seemingly new strength.
She cried out determinedly then began to flutter her wings, aiming her Twisted down into one of the holes to make several more spring up out of each mouth, covering the field in them and I smirked. "Alright! Now use Quick Attack!"
"Pidgeot, use Wing Attack! That should finish them off!" Falkner called so his Pidgeot flew forwards, aiming straight for Pidgeotto.
"Roll over to avoid being hit then fly into that Twister!" I cheered, remaining upbeat for Pidgeotto's sake. As she reached Pidgeot she instantly flapped her wings and turned, rolling over onto her back then straightened out, flying into the Twister as I directed.
"Follow it Pidgeot! Those little gusts of wind should be no problem for you!" I smirked and shook my head.
"Oh I wouldn't be too sure about that." I said and he blinked at me.
"Huh?"
"Pidgeotto? How about we greet out little guest with a Fly attack." I suggested calmly then looked up as Pidgeotto rose up out of the top of the twisting cyclone then dived down as Pidgeot entered the twister and instantly got caught up in the current, trying to fight against it but Pidgeotto spiralled down, allowing the current to carry her and amplify the attack as her beak and wingtips glowed.
She struck at full force and Pidgeot cried out from the hit, struggling to break free as Pidgeotto glided out of there as easily as if it were a breath of wind. "Pidgeotto, Wing Attack on the double, let's go!" I called and Pidgeotto instantly dove back in and struck Pidgeot again, this time knocking it clean out of the twister.
"No! Pidgeot!" Pidgeot couldn't find its balance or figure out which way was up or down so it tumbled to the ground frantically, threatening to hit it very hard.
"Pidgeotto? Lend Pidgeot a hand would you please?" Falkner looked at me in confusion then watched as Pidgeotto dove down and swept under Pidgeot, giving it the lift it needed to find its ground before it fell the rest of the way, only landing with a lot less force than it would have. "Now to finish this." I said as Pidgeot looked up and tried to fly again. "Pidgeotto, use Peck."
Pidgeotto dove down once more and each time her wings brushed against a twister it guttered out, turning into wisps of dust until she slammed into Pidgeot with a final cry. "Pidgeo!" Pidgeot flew backwards and landed heavily, looking pretty beat up and worn out but still, it lifted its head, glaring up at Pidgeotto who dove down to attack again but I held up my hand.
"Wait."
"Pidgeo?"
"Just wait." I said to her softly, looking at Pidgeot who turned to face me, a look of respect passing through its eyes before finally it gave out and collapsed to the ground.
"Pidgeot is no longer able to battle! Pidgeotto is the winner and the battle goes to Ruby Bates of Pallet Town!" The referee called and I cheered, springing up into the air and Pidgeotto caught my hands as I laughed, lifting me up and spinning me around with a whoosh of air as I beamed.
"We did it! You amazing Pokémon, you were totally awesome out there!" I said as she continued to spin around with me. "I knew you had it in you, I just knew it!" I laughed as she dropped me then came in for a hug, letting me hold her tight before she shifted back onto my arm, using the entire space as a ledge as I held her up and faced Falkner. "Thank you for such an amazing battle. You really tested me to my limits." I told him as he smiled then shook his head.
"No, you showed me my own. I must admit, I was surprised when you chose Pidgeotto when I knew you had a Charizard to hand. Tell me, why not use Charizard when it would have a clear power and strength advantage?" I shrugged.
"What's life without a little challenge?" I reasoned. "I knew hands down my Charizard would beat your Pidgeot without question, I've raised all of my Pokémon to be strong and I don't want any of my battles to just be easy. I always want to learn something about myself, my Pokémon and my opponent by the end." Falkner smiled approvingly then bowed his head.
"Well, I certainly learned a lot about you. I shall continue to train and strengthen my Pokémon. Maybe one day we will be able to battle again, and if your Pidgeotto has evolved by then, then I shall look forward to a rematch to see then who is the better flying Pokémon trainer." I smiled brightly and nodded my head.
"You got it!" Suddenly one of my Pokéballs burst open and Charizard appeared, glaring angrily down at Falkner then roared in warning, stomping a foot as I yelled. "Charizard no! It's not a date! It's just a rematch!" I shouted, waving my arms in front of him to get his attention but he snorted, still not convinced as Falkner took a step backwards.
"That's your Charizard?!" He questioned, staring at its sighed as I laughed timidly.
"Uh yeah…and he's a little overprotective of me." I said, picking up his Pokéball as Pidgeotto fluttered around his face, trilling constantly as she told him off for being so rude. "Now return both of you! Pidgeotto, thank you so much. Rest now and I'll get you to Nurse Joy right away." I promised.
Charizard grunted then shot a quick Flamethrower at Falkner who leaped out of the way as I returned him. "Charizard!" I scolded but he was already back in his Pokéball. "You and I are going to have a serious talk later about your manners." I told him then looked up with an embarrassed flush. "Sorry about that."
"Not to worry. I've had worse." He said as Ash finally bounded over to us, having finished falling over all the potholes. "If you would come to the front of the gym, I shall bring you your badges." He said to us, pausing only to nod respectfully before he moved away. The moment he was gone, Ash and I turned to each other and leaped up into the air.
"Alright! We won our first Johto League gym battle!" Ash cheered and we moved back to back, both of us mirroring one another's victory sign. "Watch out world, because Ash and Ruby are racing to the top!"
"And nothing is going to stop us!" I added then turned around, gripping Ash's hand as we clenched our fists together. "I can't wait for our next battle! Let's get going so we can get there as soon as possible!"
"Yeah!" Ash agreed and together we ran to the lift where Brock and Misty were waiting.
"Already on the move for their next badge and they haven't even collected their first." Misty chuckled as I shook out the adrenaline rush in my hands and fingers, bouncing on the spot with excitement. "Honestly, you two are as bad as each other."
"Or as good, because we both just won our first gym battle in the Johto region!" Ash returned. "I can't wait to tell Professor Oak!"
"Me too! I think we should celebrate." I said. "How about I make us a special batch of Ruby's Marvellous Munchies! Sound good?"
"Alright! Make sure you don't forget the brownies!" Ash told me and I nodded my head.
"Don't worry, it's my own recipe after all, I'm not about to forget it." I assured him. "We can have it for dessert, that sound okay Brock?"
"Sounds great. I'll make my Secret Sauce and Spice Soup! Your favourite." Instantly I was dreaming about dinner and eager to get tasting. The elevator doors opened and we all stepped outside, going quiet as we walked to the entrance then waited for Falkner, who returned with his pupils and two badges in hand.
"Here you are, as promised. You both definitely earned these badges." He told us and we both took one each. They were a pair of silver wings freshly polished and gleaming.
"Thanks." We both chorused, smiling down at the badge in our hands before Ash spun around in celebration. "Alright! The Zephyr Badge, yes!"
"Pi Pikachu!" Pikachu leaped up with an echo, punching the air as I calmly slipped mine into my jacket and pinned it in place to sit until I could find a badge case for it.
"Battling with you both has inspired me to learn more and to train harder. That's the only way I'll ever reach my goal of being the world's number one flying Pokémon trainer. I wish you both good luck in the Johto League." He said, shaking Ash's hand first and then mine.
"Thanks and good luck to you!" Ash smiled as I nodded my head.
"Take good care of your Pokémon, remember. I have a soft spot for your Pidgeot. If I come back and find it with a feather out of place then you'll have to deal with me." I said with a warm smile before turning and joining the others in our walk to the Pokémon Centre, where we spent the rest of the evening relaxing and eating our favourite foods with my desert platter of mixed treats going down faster than you could say Pikachu!
