Author's Note:

Here it is, the first of Serena's two caught Pokemon in the Orange Islands. This is a Pokemon which, I honestly had no real intention of using when I first started but when I got to Hoenn in my planning, I realised I hadn't given Serena a certain type and I still needed one more Pokemon for this arc anyway. It's not that I have anything against this Pokemon (or its evolutions) I just never really considered it. I want to make one thing clear, Serena believes her father is dead (being the main reason they moved to Pallet) but in reality, he is very much alive. I am not ready to reveal who her father is but I will say Serena has to get her blonde hair from somewhere. (On a side note, sorry this one took so long to get up, I have had a bit of writers block and this is eating up one of the chapters I wrote in advance. Hopefully it passes soon but I can't make any promises with that). Anyway, remember to vote in the poll and with that, let's begin...

Chapter 11: Get Along, Little Pokemon

"How much longer before we get to Trovita gym?" Ash groaned as he whipped his forehead of the sweat gathering there. The group are currently trekking across Trovita island towards Ash's third Orange League gym. Unfortunately, the path they are on is a dry, hot, canyon.

"If we continue at this rate..." Drake pretended to check his Pokegear. "We should arrive in the middle of Never-ember, since we're not moving.". Like everyone else, he too is bothered by the heat and this is the seventh time Ash has asked, today alone. They maybe on good terms but like all siblings they can annoy each other.

"I'm serious, Drake!" Ash snapped back. "I don't think I've ever been this tired throughout our entire journey.".

"Well, we haven't been getting much exercise on the back of Lapras." Serena pointed.

"Not to mention this heat." Misty added.

"Still, complaining won't do us any good. There is a small town nearby." Drake replied. "It will add a little onto our journey to Trovita gym but at least we can get shelter for the night. But if we want to make it than we need to keep moving.".

The trio groaned at Drakes instructions but they started walking with him anyway. They know it's not Drake's fault and he is just uncomfortable in the weather as the rest of them. He just doesn't feel the need to voice his annoyance unlike the others.

It seems not only the humans are annoyed with the current weather conditions. Pikachu is jumping between Ash's two shoulders, unable to get comfy with the intense heat. Plus, Togepi isn't fairing much better, Ash in bouncing him up and down to keep him from crying, that would only add to everyone's annoyance. The only one who seems to be enjoying the current weather is Cubone, seeing as he is a ground type this would be his ideal environment.

"Hey guys, what's that?" Misty asked as she pointed to the side of them. Looking in that direction, they saw a giant black cloud fill the sky and it was closing in on them fast. Drake seemed to be the only one to notice Pikachu's cheeks spark.

"We need to find cover fast." Drake instructed as he looked around. Soon he spotted. "Under that rock should do it.". Not waiting for a response, Drake took off for the rock, with Cubone at his heel. The group looked at each other before running after them. They may be getting on each other's nerves, but that is down to the heat and it doesn't change the fact that Drake knows what he is doing.

Drake and Cubone made it under the cover first, moments before a heavy rain pour started. The rest of the group soon join them but they were hit by the storm, although Togepi seemed to enjoy the fresh cold water. Weird since he prefers baths over showers.

"Where did this rain come from?" Serena asked.

"It sure came in quickly, almost like a Pokemon used Rain Dance." Misty added.

"Were on an island surround by water with intense heat." Drake replied. "Rain clouds are formed when sea water evaporates and the water vapour is in the air. The water vapour is collected into the clouds before it becomes too heavy and falls back down in the form of rain.".

"That still doesn't explain its quick arrival." Ash replied.

"Due to us being surrounded by ocean for literal miles, rain clouds form a whole lot easier than they would on a mainland like Kanto." Drake explained. "And due to Trovita location on the map, I wouldn't be surprised if it is position the middle of the typical wind currents, meaning this is where most storms pass through.".

The group accepted the answer as it seems to make sense and none of them really have enough knowledge on the subject to make a counter argument. That is one thing about Drake and his seem less endless knowledge, it is hard for anyone to keep a conversation with him, unless they are some sort of genius.

Although, the group couldn't keep that thought train for long as a Pokemon soon appeared on a rock above them. They easily recognised it, as Drake has one as well but unlike his who is energetic this one is barking at them. Ash couldn't even translate as it isn't saying any coherent words, like when one of his Pokemon let out a battle cry. Drake soon had his hand on a Pokeball ready to battle, he knows from his own Pokemon of the same species that they are tough in battle. It was a Jolteon.

Ash too hand his hand on a Pokeball ready to battle if needed. Much to the groups relief, an old-fashioned wagon being pulled by two Tauros appeared behind the electric type eeveelution. A man dressed like a traditional cowboy was in the driving seat. A bolt of lightning shout out of the sky and struck what looked like a group of Pokemon in the air. The group didn't have chance to properly identify them because of how close and dangerous the lightening was.

"Get in!" The man demanded. "You'll be safe from the storm in here.".

Although not smart to trust a stranger, the group realised they don't have much choice seeing as staying where they are could result in them getting fried. Serena and Misty were the first to climb in, who were soon followed by Ash and Drake.

"Thank you, sir. We didn't expect a storm to just appear." Misty thanked the man.

"Now don't ya start with that sir none-sense, little missy." The man replied with a jolly smile. "Ya'll can just call me Ethan.".

"Well thank you, Ethan." Misty thanked again. "My names Misty.".

"And I'm Serena." Serena was the next to introduce herself. "And this is my boyfriend Ash.". Serena had a radiant smile on her face as she introduced Ash, although she doesn't need to hold his hand when walking (unless on a date) she still can't stop from feeling happy about their relationship even after a year of being together.

"Hi. These are my partners, Pikachu and Togepi." Ash spoke up next. He didn't need to introduce himself since Serena already did it so he went on to introduce his two Pokemon outside their Pokeballs. Pikachu waved a hello while Togepi just chirped happily from his daddy's hands.

"Drake. Cubone." Drake introduced himself and his ground type.

"Well it's a pleasure to meet ya'll." Ethan greeted. "I'm a-guessing that ya'll were crossing the island to-get-to the gym on the south end.".

"Um, yes Ethan." Ash replied with surprise. "But how did you know that?".

"Hehehehe, simple really. Not much happens around these parts, at least not work related." Ethan chuckled. "The only real time anything happens is when the League comes around, so I make sure to catch it. Which is how I know your one of 'em competing trainers, Ash.".

"Oh wow." Ash gulped. He didn't realise that so many people would know who he was simply for competing in the Orange League. It sort of makes sense that the Officer Jenny's do since at the Indigo League they brought in from all over the region to maintain order and it is possible something similar would happen at the other leagues. Plus, it makes sense that the gym leaders know who will be challenging them but having just a regular citizen recognise him is a little overwhelming.

"Ethan, you mentioned work? What is it that you do?" Drake asked changing the subject.

"Well, I run a mobile Magnamite ranch." Ethan replied as he pointed up to the sky. The lightning bolt had disappeared and the rain cloud was moving away. Now the group could properly identify the Pokemon that was stuck by the lightening as Magnamite. Ash, Serena and Drake scanned them with their National-Dexes:

Magnamite, The Magnet Pokemon. They gather in places where electricity is available. They can be found clinging to the steel towers used to support power lines. It sends out electromagnetic waves, which let it float through the air. Touching it while it's eating electricity will give you a full-body shock.

Type: Electric / Steel

"Ya know, I always found it weird how Magnamite can be hurt by ground moves like Earthquake despite levitating." Misty commented thoughtfully as she watched the sun return over head.

"It's a simple explanation." Drake replied. "Magnamite and its evolved forms float by releasing electromagnetic waves beneath them. It is something their body naturally does, like how our hearts beat. They are affected by moves like earthquake because it disturbs the ground underneath them which in turn disrupts their balance. Think of those waves like Magnemite's legs, and when attack can leave them wide open.".

"Say now, your pretty smart for a young-en." Ethan praised the oldest twin.

"Thanks." Drake replied in response.

"So, what does a mobile Magnamite ranch do?" Serena asked.

"We chase storms around these parts to collect the wild electricity." Ethan explained. "Then we deliver it to all the towns on this island when they need power. Since more storms appear on Trovita than any other island in this region, they can strike key building and leave 'em towns without power.".

"Chasing storms... It sounds like a pretty dangerous job." Serena muttered.

"It sure is, little missy." Ethan replied with a bright smile. "But it is also an important one.".

In another flash of lightening, the group of Magnamite were struck and charged up. With that, the storm cloud seemed to disappear. Although it was a heavy storm, it is travelling across the island. Ethan put a whistle in his mouth and blew hard, which caused the entire group of Magnamite to swam around them.

"Wow, those Magnamite sure have been well trained." Misty commented.

"Well shoot'n, course. I can't be have'n them floating off now, can I." Ethan replied.

"Wouldn't it be easier if you kept them in their Pokeballs?" Ash asked.

"Please, all these Magnamite are wild. My only Pokemon are my two Tauros, Jolteon and an old buddy who comes out when in a rush." Ethan smiled. "If I caught 'em, I would only have two on hand, that anit enough to power up a town.".

"But what if someone tries to catch them?" Serena asked. "Or what if they decided to wonder off?". As if on cue, a couple of Magnamite started to wonder away.

"Well, nothings stop'n someone else catch'n them. But then again, they aren't exactly mine to begin with." Ethan explained. "As for them wonders, that practically describes number six. It is also why I have Jolteon, here.".

At the mention of his name, Jolteon shot off around to the couple of wondering Magnamite and unleashed a small static shock which drew the wonders in. The electric type eeveelution lead them back to the group.

"Number six?" Drake questioned. "You can tell them apart?".

"Of course." Ethan replied. "That's number 1. And there's number 2. Number three is right over there...".

"Can you tell the difference?" Misty whispered in Serena's ear, no-longer paying attention as Ethan went through all fifth-teen.

"Well, Number 6 looks a little different. I guess." Serena whispered back. "But all the others look the same.".

"How bout, I give ya'll a lift towards the gym side?" Ethan offered. "I'm a heading that way, anyway. And it'll save ya'll getting stuck in another shower.".

"Wow, thanks Ethan that'd be great." Ash thanked. The others in the group also showed they're thanks to the offer and soon the group set off across the Trovita Island in Ethan's cart.

It is the morning after meeting Ethan. They travelled by cart for most of the day after meeting the Magnamite handler, only stopping for a couple of storms and when it was night time. It wasn't a massive deal as they were getting the ride for free and they still covered more ground than they would've by foot. Also as thanks, the group cooked the food and offered Ethan some.

On the journey, Drake let his own Jolteon out to learn from the more experienced of the same species. Of course, Drake's is more prepared for battle when compared to Ethan's but it just seemed like the right thing to do. Guess Drake really is changing over the course of this journey since he wouldn't have done such a thing prior to his travels with Ash.

"Understood Nurse Joy. We'll be over as soon as." Ethan spoke over his phone. He climbed out of the cart to see the youngens all packed up. He hates to do this to them after offering them a lift to but he doesn't have much choice.

"Hey Ethan, is everything alright?" Ash asked seeing his sour expression.

"Sorry ya'll but I can't continue to give ya'll the ride to the gym." Ethan apologised. "The two where it is has been struck by lightning and they need my Magnamite to power them up. I'll need to take the fast track which only allows me and my team to go.".

"It's alright, Ethan. We understand." Ash spoke on behalf of the group.

"Thank ya'll, and sorry about not being able to help ya'll." Ethan replied. "To bad none ya'lls can ride Rhyhorn, otherwise that could solve the issue.".

Upon mentioning the sport her mother is a champion in, Serena became incredibly nervous and moved subtly behind Ash. The raven-haired boy doesn't mind since he knows Serena can ride them but really hates it. She has nothing against the Pokemon but she has been thrown off her mother's more than enough times.

"Why would that be able to solve the issue?" Misty asked.

"I'll shall ya'll, little missy." Ethan replied as he took out another Pokeball. Throwing it in the air, released a giant Rhyhorn. Based on memory, it is a lot bigger than Brock's but was around the same size as Grace's. "Ya see, when we need to fast travel. I pack the cart down and ride my old pal here. Unlike my Tauros, he can handle all the different terrains on this island.".

"So, if one of us could ride him?..." Serena nervously asked.

"Then ya'll could ride him to the town and I could continue to give the rest of ya'll a lift in the cart." Ethan answered.

Drake glanced at the honey-blonde girl hiding behind his brother. She knows how to ride Rhyhorn, probably better than Ethan after all that training. Unlike Ash who had a couple of lessons from Grace before he broke his arm when he was thrown off, Drake hasn't even been taught the basics but even if he could do something that made him uncomfortable, he would do it if it was for the great good of the group. He doesn't want to get stuck in another surprise storm.

"Ethan, then why doesn't Serena ride Rhyhorn and the Magnamite towards the town?" Drake asked bluntly.

"What's that?" Ethan blinked in surprise before turning towards Serena. "Little missy, ya'll can handle Rhyhorn?".

"Um well, my mum is a retired Rhyhorn racer and she gave a few lessons on riding them." Serena nervously replied before shooting daggers at her boyfriend's twin. Despite them looking the same, they couldn't be more different. Her Ash would never have pulled such a stun, and would never make her do something she isn't comfortable with. "Grace Yvonne.".

"Well now, ya'll Yvonne's daughter? Rhyhorn would be honour to have any Yvonne ride him." Ethan smiled. Other than moving after her father past away, they were going to move once Grace retired anyway. Being famous in Kalos meant they couldn't have the normal life. Her father's death just made it happen a little sooner.

"Um, then I don't mind taking the Magnamite." Serena gulped. She would hate to embarrass her mum's name as a Rhyhorn racer not to mention it would mean her friends don't get caught in another storm. She may not exactly be happy with Drake after that stunt but objectively speaking, it is the best thing for everyone.

"You don't need to do this if you don't want to, Serena." Ash whispered in her ear as she walked past him towards the Rhyhorn.

"It's fine Ash... Really." Serena whispered back, ending with a peck on the check.

Ash walked over to Rhyhorn, making sure to approach him from the front. She kneeled down in front of him asking for permission to ride with him. After receiving conformation, she stood up and climbed onto Rhyhorn's back. For a moment, Serena was expecting Rhyhorn to try and throw her off but he never did. It is a reasonable assumption that her mum's Rhyhorn was told to do that in the lessons to add another layer of difficulty.

"Now little missy, ya'll can take Jolteon with ya's to keep 'em Magnamite in check." Ethan explained as he approached her. He also pulled out a whistle out of his pocket and handed it to her. It is presumable that he has loads of them considering how vital they are and how easy the can be broken or lost.

"Thank you." Serena thanked.

"Just head down this path and ya'll should reach the town by nightfall." Ethan explained. Serena nodded in understanding as she turned towards the group of electric Pokemon. Blowing the whistle, Jolteon quickly rounded up the Magnamite.

"Let's go Rhyhorn." Serena told the ground rock type. With a flick of the reins, Rhyhorn started charging down the path Ethan pointed them down with Jolteon running alongside him whilst keeping the Magnamite close in with small bursts of electricity.

"Well what'cha wait'n for?" Ethan asked as he climbed into the driving seat of his cart. "Get in, we might not be as fast as old Rhyhorn but the sooner we leave, the soon we get there.".

The group looked at each other before climbing into the cart. As soon as the trio of Ash, Misty and Drake were seated, they started charging off down the path Serena left. Although only a couple of minutes behind her, they couldn't spot her, which just goes to show how much faster Rhyhorn is. Obviously, Tauros are naturally faster but they also have the cart and everything else to pull.

As the group continued down the path, Drake couldn't help but notice that Ash wasn't exactly happy with him. While he is spending his time talking with Pikachu and Togepi, tension is clear in the air. It doesn't bother Drake, so what if Serena doesn't like riding Rhyhorn, it is better that than get stuck in another storm, they might not be able to find cover this time.

It is hard to tell how long Serena has been riding. A good few hours based on how the sun has changed its position in the sky but it doesn't really matter. Although it is impossible to say, Serena feels like she is making good time.

They have come up to a small stream running down the direction they were going. Deciding to take a break, Serena released her Pokemon and got them some lunch out. Even Jolteon and Rhyhorn were drinking from the lake. Although she doesn't have specially made food for these two Pokemon, she still feed them. The main issue is the Magnamite. According to Ethan, they feed on the electricity from the thunderstorms and there isn't a cloud anywhere near. While it may be wasting time by taking a break, it is better that than tire Rhyhorn horn out before they reach the destination.

"Okay guys, don't take too long." Serena told her Pokemon.

Jolteon and Rhyhorn were grateful for the break and while not thrilled about the flavour of the food, they are grateful that Serena gave them some. Farfetch'd and Beedrill are sat together, while they didn't get on to begin with these two have become friends over time. Seel and Kingdra were in the stream and were enjoying the cool water. Eevee and Kangashkan are sat by Serena. Likewise, Serena has the stuff to make a sandwich for herself. While not the typical hot meal they cook, it is better than nothing and they don't even have the time to set the cooking gear up.

While they enjoyed the break, Serena's mind started to wonder about the day so far. To be honest, while not completely happy about Drake calling her out like he did, she can't blame him and she probably would've spoke up at some point if only to help the poor Pokemon who were put in danger by the power outage.

Other than that, she can't help but notice how different ridding Ethan's Rhyhorn is to riding her mother's way back. To start with, Ethan's Rhyhorn didn't try to throw her off when she got on. Although it could be because he knows the urgency of the situation, Serena can't help but think that her mothers only did so to make training that much harder, while she loves her mum, she has to admit she likes challenges and likely told her Rhyhorn to add that challenge for Serena's lessons.

It could also be because they aren't in a race, at least not against another person but there isn't as much pressure on them. It could also be because no-body is watching and critiquing their every move. Although she still doesn't want to become a Rhyhorn racer, this isn't nearly as bad as she remembers it.

Although the break wasn't long at all, ten-minutes at most, Serena didn't want to spend too long doing nothing. Collecting the bowls and putting them away, she let the Pokemon each get a drink of water before returning her team. She turned to Jolteon and saw the Magnamite partly scattered. She blew the whistle and the electric type eeveelution gathered up all the Magnamite in sight. Just as a double check, she started to count them.

"One, two, three..." Serena muttered as she counted left to right. Unlike Ethan, she isn't able to tell them apart but is simply just counting them. "... Thirteen, Fourteen.". Hold on, there is supposed to be fifth-teen. Now that she is looking, they all look exactly alike, and number six was the only one she could properly identify.

Looking around in a panick, Serena spotted a bright light shiny a little over a hill. Although not confirmed, it is likely that was the sun shining off number six's body. It one swift movement she was back on Rhyhorn's back. With a blow of the whistle, Jolteon was keeping the other Magnamite in the group as they charged after the lone wonder.

It didn't take them long to get over the hill and what Serena saw scared her greatly. A Nidoqueen was beating up number 6. Looking a little bit away, she saw a little cave with a couple of Nidoran inside. It is presumable that this is their home. Still, Serena has to get Number 6 back and it doesn't look like Nidoqueen is in a talking mood. Although she doesn't want to, it looks like she will need to battle Nidoqueen.

Quickly going through her Pokemon, Beedrill and Farfetch'd are strong but neither are at a proper advantage. Kingdra and Seel, while have the type advantage aren't in the right environment. Seel would struggle greatly and is probably at a power disadvantage while Kingdra would be a sitting Psyduck. Finally, is Eevee and Kangashkan, out of those two, one of them has a good move and should be able to get through. Maybe a little mother to mother talk would help as well.

"Kangashkan, I need your help!" Serena shouted as she threw the Safari Ball into the air.

Serena jumped off Rhyhorn's back and ran behind her Kangashkan. The normal type saw what was happening and knew it was time to battle. Serena wasn't worried about making this like a contest battle since only really Farfetch'd and Beedrill has mastered that sort of thing. Nidoqueen spotted the new intruders and also entered a battle stance.

Serena VS Nidoqueen:

"Start off with Fake Out!" Serena shouted.

Taking the first move, Kangashkan clenched her fist before charging towards the ground poison type. A moment before the fist collided with Nidoqueen's face, the normal type made a surprise slap across the wild mother's face, causing her to flinch.

"Now use Ice Punch!" Serena continued.

Kangashkan clenched her fist and it became surrounded in ice. The parental Pokemon began to unleash a powerful barrage of ice type punches on Nidoqueen. This advantage didn't last long as soon Nidoqueen's Poison Point ability activated.

Nidoqueen clenched her fist as the poison took effect on Kangashkan, causing the Ice Punch assault to stop. The glowing fist struck the normal type and seemed to power up Nidoqueen's attack. It was Power-Up-Punch.

This surprised Serena as that is a move normally saved for TM or special training. Wild Pokemon typically only have moves they learn naturally. Although it is rare to find moon stones in the wild so it is likely that this Nidoqueen once had a trainer, meaning it won't be as easy as a wild Pokemon typically would be.

"Sucker Punch!" Serena shouted.

Although not super effective, the surprise punch was enough to take the wild Nidoqueen by surprise. Standing up, the two motherly Pokemon faced off and entered another battle stance. Clenching both of their fists they started a boxing match between Ice Punch and Power-Up-Punch respectively.

Kangashkan's Ice Punches seemed to pack more of a punch thanks to being super effective as well as Kangashkan having more formal training more recently compared to her opponent. Unfortunately, the Power-Up-Punches were powering up Nidoqueen by a decent amount and she is not exactly weak to begin with.

As the two Pokemon continued to trade blows back and forth, number six was watching the two Pokemon and trainer. It has always been a pain towards Ethan and the others. It's not his fault, he has always been the curios type and very trusting now it has put this girl and her Pokemon in danger.

While it seemed like the two Pokemon were evenly matched, but the poison once again took its effect on Kangashkan. This caused the normal type to stop her assault and was knocked away by another Power-Up-Punch.

"Kangashkan!" Serena shouted, her voice filled with concern.

Nidoqueen growled as she turned her attention to Serena. This girl is the one that brought the normal type. No-doubt she has other Pokemon and despite being strong, she isn't able to handle a full team by herself. Making a logical decision, Nidoqueen fired off a Thunderbolt towards Serena. It was one of the last moves her trainer tried to teach her before letting her start her family and due to the constant thunderstorms around her, she completed the training as a way to protect her young.

Kangashkan pushed herself up as she saw the lightning bolt fly towards her trainer. Activating another Sucker Punch to move as quickly as possible, she ignored the poisonous sting all over her body and charged towards Nidoqueen to stop the attack. Although she isn't fast enough.

Surprisingly, someone else was fast enough. Deciding it was tired of its naivety putting others in danger, number six shot in front of the Thunderbolt as fast as it could. Being one of the lighter steel types and being so small meant it could intercept the Thunderbolt before it struck Serena. Feeding off the electricity, number six began to glow white.

Kangashkan's Sucker Punch struck Nidoqueen hard and knocked her into a rock. This cancelled the Thunderbolt. The normal type clenched her fist and another Ice Punch as her other hand grab Nidoqueen by the throat and blocked her against the rock.

"What is wrong with you?" Kangashkan angrily growled at the poison ground type. "Why would you attack my trainer like that?".

"She trespassing, you all are." Nidoqueen struggled against Kangashkan's grip. "I only want to defend my family.".

"Defend them against what? A Magnamite?" Kangashkan retorted. "Was it really threating you or your children in any way?".

"Well... It entered our home." Nidoqueen replied.

"That small cave?" Kangashkan asked. "Or was it just passing by, probably not even knowing that you were there. You may live in that hole but that doesn't mean you own the land surrounding it.".

"Still, your trainer had you attack me." Nidoqueen retorted, clutching for straws.

"Because you wouldn't listen. You know she chose me from her team because she is hoping I can make you see sense. Mother to mother." Kangashkan replied. "If she chose the bee or duck than you wouldn't be given this chance.".

"Bee or duck?" Nidoqueen questioned. "Never mind that, I just want to keep my children safe. They hatched little over a week ago.".

"I get that, but we only want to get the... Magneton, guess he evolved." Kangashkan replied. "How about we call a truce, we take the Magneton and you stay here, no need to continue this fight.".

"Fine... And sorry about the poison." Nidoqueen apologised. "My main concern was keeping my child safe.".

"I understand that, I've lost count the amount of times I've gone over the top to protect Roo." Kangashkan replied. She took more poison damage. "Gah, this poison really stings.".

"Roo?" Nidoqueen questioned.

"Serena named her, and she likes it." Kangashkan answered.

"She?" Nidoqueen questioned. "I've always wondered how your species work like that.".

"We always have a child, when our child is about to evolve into us, we have another child born." Kangashkan explained. "A child is also born when we first evolve. Since it doesn't hatch from an egg, and is never found away from us people don't count them as Pokemon.".

"So where do the fathers come from?" Nidoqueen asked.

"We reproduce asexually. Makes things easier in the long run, and takes out the time issue we use to have." Kangashkan explained.

"If that's right, then why do people classify all members of your species as female?" Nidoqueen asked.

"Because people are stupid and think that if a creature gives life to another being then they are automatically female." Kangashkan explained tactlessly. "I mean, we can breed with other Pokemon but we don't need to. It just saves a bunch of time and effort.".

"Interesting..." Nidoqueen mused thoughtfully.

"Any way, if I let you go now, you're not going to attack again, right?" Kangashkan asked.

"No, just hurry up and leave please. It is nap time for the children." Nidoqueen replied. Kangashkan let her go and slumped down, man this poison is really taking its toll on her.

Serena smiled sympathetically at her normal type. She might not understand Pokemon like Ash can but she knows her well enough to know they came to some sort of understanding. This was why she chose Kangashkan, not because of any sort of type advantage but because the best way to get through to a mother is with a mother. Kangashkan has always been the mother figure of Serena's Pokemon and that made her the perfect choice for this battle.

"Return Kangashkan, and thank you." Serena recalled her poisoned normal type. Unfortunate, Drake is the one who keeps all the medical supplies for the group so she doesn't have an antidote to heal the parental Pokemon. Although the Pokemon should nullify the poisons effects while she is inside so she should be fine until they make it to the Pokemon centre.

The normal type happily allowed herself to get recalled and Serena clipped the Pokeball to her belt. Nidoqueen stood in front of the cave and watched. She will keep her promise but is making sure the girl doesn't try anything. The newly evolved electric steel type floated up to her.

"Hey, number six. You've evolved congratulations." Serena praised, surely now that its evolved it can provide even more power to the Pokemon Centre. She made a quick glance at Nidoqueen and decided standing around isn't helping anyone. "Let's return to the others and get to the town which needs power.".

Climbing onto Rhyhorn's back Serena did a swift turn around and started to ride towards the town with Jolteon by her side, who was keeping the fourteen Magnamite and one Magneton all together. They don't need another run in with a wild Pokemon.

"What?" Drake asked in an annoyed tone.

It is currently night time. The group haven't stopped at all while riding all day and should hopefully make it to the town tomorrow before noon. They kind of have to stop now as it is too dark to see where they are going and the Tauros are rightfully exhausted.

The reason for Drake's irritation is his brother. Ash has been giving him the cold shoulder all day. In all honesty, the two brothers have mostly been talking with their Pokemon during the ride. While Drake understands that Ash's hostility is coming from the fact that he pointed Serena's secret out, why is it such a big problem?

"Why did you point out that Serena knows how to ride Rhyhorn?" Ash asked. "You know she doesn't like it. She hasn't even ridden one since she was eight.".

"Because it was the right thing to do?" Drake answered directly.

"Right how?" Ash asked. "Because you don't like walking and just wanted a ride?".

"It's right, because of the Pokemon in danger by the lack of power." Drake replied. "Just think about all the Pokemon who were relying on the equipment at the Pokemon centre, the equipment which runs on electricity. I am sure their health is more important than your girlfriend's happiness.".

Ash just stared his brother down, and rattled his brain for some sort of argument but he couldn't. How could you claim that another being's life is less important than someone's happiness? Although he hates to admit it, Drake has made a good point.

"Your right..." Ash muttered under his breath, making Drake smirk victoriously. "Still, we don't know where she is. Our Pokegear have lost signal so it is impossible to contact her. What if something happened?".

"Then she would deal with it." Drake replied bluntly. "She isn't some sort of damsel in distress, she conquered the Battle Chateau. If something was to have happened than she would've dealt with it.".

Ash just stared at his brother in disbelief, of course he knows Serena isn't a damsel in distress and he believes she can handle herself in tough situations but... But he is worried about her, is that really wrong of him? Not decided to continue the discussion, Drake stood up with a sleeping Cubone in his hands.

"I'm going to bed, don't wait up." Drake told his brother as he went to bed.

Ash just stared at him as he disappeared into the tent. He really dislikes his brother sometimes, he does things which Ash can't stand but he uses sound logic and reasoning for his actions. In short, he plans and wins most any argument they have before it even begins.

It was late at night. Serena was about to set her Pokemon down for the night and set up came. Unfortunately, she doesn't have a tent so it would mean roughing it in her sleeping bag. The girls tent is carried by Misty, and she has most of the cooking utensils.

Lucky, Serena was able to see the lit torches of the town. It seems they are using candles as a light-source since the power is out. With them being so close, the entire group pushed on. Not only to help the Pokemon at the Pokemon Centre but also because Kangashkan is still poisoned and needs help as well.

Upon entering the town, Serena noticed Rhyhorn seemed to have slowed down, probably to ensure he doesn't charge into a building or hit someone. He also was going off his own direction since he has been to the place before and knows his way around. Taking the time to do a quick head count of the electric steel types, revealed that all fourteen Magnamite and the Magneton were still here. Good, at least none of them were lost.

It didn't take long for Rhyhorn to get the honey-blonde girl to the Pokemon Centre. Unfortunately, it seemed like this place was also running off electrical power. Using the whistle as she climbed off the ground rock type, Serena lead: Jolteon, the Magnamite and Rhyhorn through the doors.

"Nurse Joy!" Serena announced as she opened the door.

Upon the new voice, the Pokemon Nurse appeared from around the corner with a look of concern and confusion. She was afraid she would need to deliver bad new to a trainer seeing as the power was but to her surprise and delight she found said trainer had the Magnamite she was waiting on. She also had Ethan's Jolteon and Rhyhorn. Not to mention his whistle, it is clear why they are here.

"Oh, thank goodness. I was beginning to worry we would have to go the night without power." Nurse Joy sighed in relief. Jolteon walked to the nurse side, bringing the Magnamite along with him.

"Sorry Nurse Joy, we ran into a little trouble on the way." Serena apologised. "Um, could you check over my Kangashkan please? She was poisoned on the way here.".

"Certainly." Nurse Joy smiled as she took the Safari Ball out of the girl's hands. "Just let me set the Magnamite up and then I'll sort her out.".

Nurse Joy disappeared and after a few minutes the Pokemon centre lights returned. Serena sighed in relief, the Pokemon at the Centre are going to be safe. Also to her relief, she noticed the street lights and other buildings also had lights return. Serena realised, with the Pokemon centre being close to the centre of town, it also acted as the towns generator. At least she got them to the right place. It was around ten minutes later before Nurse Joy returned with the safari ball in hand and Magneton floating by her side.

"Here's your Kangashkan. She is doing just fine, although needs some rest." Nurse Joy told the young girl.

"Oh, thank you Nurse Joy." Serena thanked. "She was poisoned by a wild Nidoqueen. We had to battle her when one of the Magnamite wondered into her territory, which is also why it evolved.".

"It's okay." Nurse Joy smiled. "Unfortunately, Magneton is too big to fit into the machine meaning we can't run off his electricity. Still, thanks to you we have more than enough power with the other Magnamite to run the town until the engineers gets the power back.".

Serena smiled as she clipped the Safari Ball to her belt. Now that it was all over, Serena was feeling quite proud. She managed to overcome her distaste for Rhyhorn riding and managed to save the Pokemon. It is a really good feeling, in all honesty Serena was worried she was beginning to rely on the others too much. Since competing in the Chateau, all she's really been doing is following Ash around and even Drake has took on Brock's role as the map reader despite her being his student. Even Misty and Drake have been helping with the cooking duties, so it is good to know she is just as useful. Suddenly, Serena's stomach growled in huger.

"Hehehe, sorry." Serena blushed in embarrassment.

"Don't worry about it." Nurse Joy smiled. "Come on, I'll have the Chansey's cook something up for you. It's the least we can do since you brought the Magnamite.".

"Thank you, Nurse Joy." Serena thanked. The two females and the Magneton disappeared towards the Cafeteria.

"Serena!" Ash called out as he burst through the doors of the Pokemon Centre. It is just before noon the day after Serena left and he is worried since he hasn't heard from her since she left. While it makes sense that she wouldn't call as that is wasting time when she could be riding, it does mean he was worried about her.

"Calm down, Ash. I'm right here." Serena told her boyfriend as she walked from around a corner with a bright smile on her face. She walked up to her boyfriend who engulfed her in a hug. This has always been her favourite kind of hug, the kind which Ash initiated. "Where are Togepi and Pikachu?".

"Hehehe, I took off for here as soon as we entered the town. Pikachu didn't fancy running in this heat so he stayed with Drake, Misty and Ethan in the cart." Ash sheepishly replied. "Togepi is asleep in my backpack.".

"Glad to know you missed me." Serena teasingly replied.

"I wouldn't be a good boyfriend if I didn't." Ash whispered in Serena's ear, ending with a peck on the cheek. It sent shivers down Serena's spin but she remained smiling and just snuggled into the hug more. "But what's up with the Magneton?".

"Hiya!" Pikachu called out as he ran through the doors. The couple sighed as the electric mouse jumped onto Ash's shoulder because it meant the moment alone was over. Reluctantly, they broke out of the hug as Misty, Drake and Ethan walked through the door.

"Hey Serena, good to see you." Misty smiled as the two girls had a quick friendly hug.

"It's good to see you too, Misty." Serena replied. Drake just gave her a slight head nod to show he acknowledged her, he isn't the hugging type, especially not his brother's girlfriend. That is one thing he doesn't even want to try and make a reality.

"Well now little missy, I must say ya'lls done some mighty fine riding to get here. Ya'lls definitely a Yvonne." Ethan praised. "Although I too, would like to know where this Magneton came from.".

"Oh, we ran into a bit of trouble with a Nidoqueen and number six evolved." Serena explained nervously as Ash clutched her hand.

"Well now, why don't ya'll catch Number six?" Ethan suggested with a smile.

"What?" Serena questioned. "Are you sure? Why?".

"The machine's used to take the electricity is too small to fit Magneton inside. Plus, number six is a bit of trouble by himself, and otherwise I'd be let'n him into the wild. Plus, he seems to have take'n a like'n to ya's." Ethan explained. "Plus, consider it some thanks for get'n the power back so soon.".

"I, um, thank you Ethan." Serena stuttered before turning to the electric steel type. "Well Magneton, what do you say? Want to come with me?". Magneton did the equivalent of a smile and excitingly floated around Serena's head. The honey-blonde girl took out a spare Pokeball and tap it against the Magnet Pokemon. The Pokeball instantly dinged, showing no resistance was put up. Serena took out her Pokedex and scanned the new Pokemon:

Magneton, The Magnet Pokemon. The evolved form of Magnamite. It has about three times the electrical power of Magnemite. For some reason, outbreaks of this Pokémon happen when lots of sunspots appear.

Type: Electric / Steel

Ability: Magnet Pull

Hidden Ability: Analytic (Note: This hidden ability is unlocked).

Gender: Genderless

Nature: Naive (Note: This nature could change when Magneton evolves)

Move(s): Tri Attack, Electric Terrain, Tackle, Supersonic, Thunder Shock, Magnet Bomb, Thunder Wave, Light Screen, Sonic Boom, Spark, Mirror Shot, Metal Sound, Electro Ball

Suddenly, Serena's Pokedex started vibrating and the screen lit up with images of all of Serena's current on hand Pokemon: Beedrill, Kingdra, Eevee, Farfetch'd, Kangashkan, Seel and Magneton.

"Please select which Pokemon you wish to send back." The device requested.

Serena looked at the seven images. While it is a hard decision she narrowed it down to Kingdra and Seel. Nothing against these two but they aren't really in a prime location since they still have this island to cross. In the end, Serena clicked the image of her recently evolved Kingdra since Seel doesn't out right require a body of water. Not a moment later, she felt Kingdra's Pokeball teleport of her belt.

"Thank you, Ethan. I promise to take good care of Magneton." Serena thanked the Magnemite rancher.

"No need to be thanking me, little missy. Magneton is a wild Pokemon and made his own choice to go with ya's." Ethan explained. "And I know ya'll will be a good trainer for number six. Anyone who can handle old Rhyhorn is capable of handling number six.".

"Now Ash, it's your turn." Misty told the raven-haired boy.

"Right, it is finally time for the third Orange League gym." Ash declared with determination. Little did he know, Misty was more excited about more than just his gym battle. It isn't long now until they discover the water type specialist's secret.

Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...