Episode 214: There's No Place Like Hoenn
In response to a recent reciew, I have to say, that the guest was wrong. Male Torchic have a black spot on their back (somewhere near the rear end), but it's a little hard to see it. I know because I looked it up. So I suggest you do some research on the matter. Thank you.
A few hours came and went since they left Oldale Town, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Pikachu, Angel, and Marill made a stop to relax before going forward in Petalburg City. It gave Sora an excuse to make contact with Rei.
Over to Rei's house, she hears her phone ringing and she saw it was Sora calling her.
"Hello, Sora," Rei answered her phone.
"Master Rei, there's something I think you should know," Sora said.
"And so soon since yesterday. What can I do for you today?" Rei asked.
"Master, the reason I'm calling you is because we all just learned that there's a boy wearing a mask controlling the Unversed that are out on the loose," Sora said. Rei felt uneasy when Sora said it.
"This sounds serious," Rei said.
"It is. We heard it from a few Pokémon Trainers who were gossiping about the Unversed. And we think maybe this masked kid might have something to do with Organization XIII, but we don't if it's true or not," Sora said.
"You're right, Sora, you don't know if it is true or not. Don't presume anything. Contact me again at once when you learn more of this masked boy," Rei said.
"Yes, Master, you'll know more as soon as we do," Sora said, breaking contact. Rei sighed to herself.
"This is getting even more serious than I thought. First the Unversed suddenly show up, and now there's a masked boy running around. All of our problems keeps on piling up," Rei said. She looked into the photo of herself, Kaito, and Delia. "Kaito, what would you do if you were in my shoes?"
Meanwhile, over to Kanto's most secure prison, Giovanni sat alone in his prison cell. He is seen wearing an orange prison prison uniform. He was put in a maximum security prison to answer for all his crimes.
"You got yourself a visitor, Giovanni," the guard said. Giovanni turned to see the last he had ever expected to see visit him: his own son. "Just so you know, kid, this is going to be a very short visit."
"I don't plan on staying long anyway," Silver said.
"If it isn't my wayward son. I never expected to see you here," Giovanni said.
"The reason I came by was because I wanted to see for myself. And seeing you in there only confirms that your Team Rocket empire has fallen," Silver said.
"Only for now, my son, but I will raise again," Giovanni said.
"Only you would think so, father. All you ever cared about was your precious Team Rocket more than your own family. It's no wonder mother left you. Not to mention, that's the reason why I left you. And I'm actually glad I did, because it gave me a chance to become the person I am today. It's because of that I'm learning to love my Pokémon. It took a defeat from Lance of Kanto's elite four and from some Trainers to teach me that," Silver said.
"How disappointing. To hear my own son speak such nonsense. Pokémon were put on this world to serve us. That's what I was trying to teach you. And I thought it was sinking in. But now I can see how weak you really are," Giovanni said.
"I was weak, once upon a time. But that's okay. Perhaps the time you have in this cell can straighten you out just as my journey has for me. Goodbye, father," Silver said, taking his leave. Giovanni didn't bother calling out to his son, because he knew nothing he say will make him stop. He just watched him leave. He stayed put until Silver was out of sight.
Over to the World That Never Was, the members of Organization XIII sat in their thrones as their meeting has begun.
"Is it true? Has Roxas truly returned to Sora?" Vexen asked.
"He has," Saïx confirmed. "It was only a matter of time before he has done so. And I have no doubt Axel had something to do with it."
"Sora and Roxas are once again one. He must have realized he was no match for us since he only possessed half of Sora's power," Zexion said.
"That was my wager," Luxord said, holding five cards in his hand. He picks one. "He played it safe."
"But, there is more than we were originally led to believe," Xemnas said. All the other members all looked at their leader.
"What are you talking about?" Larxene asked.
"Could you explain your meaning to the rest of us?" Xaldin asked.
"There was another Nobody with Axel and Roxas. One that we have no control over," Xemnas said.
"A Nobody we have no control over?" Lexaeus asked.
"No way," Demyx said.
"How is that even possible?" Marluxia asked.
"With Marlu. How did this Nobody even show up without us knowing about this?" Xigbar asked.
"This unique Nobody wasn't born like most Nobodies. However, this phenomenon has happened under our very noses. So I am assigning Vexen on the case," Xemnas said. Vexen just looked at their leader.
"I won't leave one stone unturned," Vexen said.
"You will begin at once," Xemnas said.
"Of course. If you excuse me," Vexen said, leaving through a corridor of darkness.
"Now that the new Nobody is brought to the light, what do we do about Sora? Even with Roxas back with him, it's still too risky to keep him around," Demyx said.
"For once, the wimp has a point. We still let him out on the loose," Larxene said.
"We have received word that Sora, Kairi, and the ones chosen by the Keyblade are currently in the Hoenn region. They're already heading for Petalburg City as we speak," Saïx said.
"If I was a gambling man like Luxord here, I would bet they're looking for other candidates for the Keyblade," Xigbar said.
"They may not realize it yet, but they have already found them. And it will not be long until the power within them has awaken," Xemnas said.
"And it will certainly draw out Axel. We must deal with them; including Axel," Saïx said.
"Marluxia, you shall have the honor of going to Petalburg City. Destroy both Sora and Roxas," Xemnas said.
"Yes, Lord Xemnas. I'll leave immediately," Marluxia said, taking his leave.
Back with Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Pikachu, and Angel, Sora placed his Rotom Phone in his pocket.
"So Sora, any ideas on your first Gym battle here in Hoenn?" Brendan asked.
"I didn't think that far ahead. I was thinking of having some training done before I even think about. So far, the Pokémon I caught are Torchic and Taillow, but they're not experienced enough for a Gym battle yet, so the one I got his Pikachu, but I have no idea on which types the Gym Leader uses," Sora said. May was quiet about it. He then looked at May. "And looking at you two, you're just beginners, yourselves, so it won't be a walk in the park."
"I think me and Treecko are going to manage just fine," Brendan said.
"Don't get overconfident, Brendan. Sora is right. You didn't have your first battle yet, so you should know that Gym Leaders are different from ordinary Trainers," Ethan said. Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Kris, and Lyra nodded with agreement.
"You should take them on their advice, Brendan. They sound like they know what they're talking about," May said.
"Don't worry about me, May. I'll just wing it," Brendan said.
Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Pikachu, and Angel continued on their way to Petalburg City and it wasn't too far for them. Unknown to the group, two little pale yellow mouse-like Pokémon are seen coming out of the shrubs. They have the slight resemblance to a Pichu, a Pikachu, and slightly a Raichu.
One of them is a cream-colored bipedal Pokémon with red markings. It has a dot-like nose, and a cream-colored plus sign in the middle of its circular red cheeks. It has long, flat ears that are mostly red. Its limbs are stubby and digitless, and it has red front paws. Its short tail is tipped with a red plus sign. This Pokémon is known as Plusle.
The other is a cream-colored bipedal Pokémon with blue markings. It has a dot-like nose, and a cream-colored minus sign in the middle of its circular blue cheeks. It has long, flat ears that are mostly blue. Its limbs are stubby and digitless, and it has blue front paws. Its short tail is tipped with a blue minus sign. This Pokémon is known as Minun.
"Here it is. Petalburg City," Sora said.
"It's the home of the very first Gym," Brendan said.
"The first step," Ash said.
"I really don't see what the big fat rush is," May said.
"What do you mean, May? I'm just headimg down to the Petalburg City Gym to earn my very first Badge," Brendan said.
"And it's going to be yours, too, May," Sora added.
"Um, yeah," May said, not wanting them to know she didn't even register. Kairi was quick to notice.
"Are you okay, May?" Kairi asked.
"Vee," Angel said.
"Huh?" May asked and she shook it off. "Oh, it's nothing! Really!" May lied as she waved her arms and giggled nervously.
"Now let's head on down," Sora said.
"Yeah. I wanna get there sooner than I get my first gray hair," Brendan said.
"So, who is going to go first?" Sora asked.
"You know, I haven't really thought of it," Brendan said.
"Shouldn't it be May, I mean lady's first," Kairi suggested. May didn't say anything.
"Kairi has a point. I mean, fair's fair," Leaf said. May said nothing.
"I think it's only fair that the boys should have a shot first. It should either be Sora or Brendan," May said.
"How about this? We flip a coin and it'll decide who's going to go first. And whoever gets heads or tails will have the first shot and the other will have it right after. Deal?" Sora asked.
"I'm game with it if you are, Sora," Brendan said.
"Then, it's settled. Which do you want? Heads or tails?" Sora asked, taking out a coin.
"I'm going to go with tails," Brendan decided. Sora flips the coin and it twirls up into the air. The coin lands in his hand and it reads tails.
"Tails, I lose," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said as Sora puts the coin in his pocket.
The group started to make their way down to Petalburg City as Plusle and Minun continues to follow the group. Xipak and Celeste have caught up with the group and followed them.
Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Pikachu, and Angel kept going down as a young, slightly small for his age, skinny and frail boy with messy green hair that sticks up, pale skin, and bluish grey eyes came walking by. He wore white shirt with a big collar under a pastel blue jacket with large buttons, grey slim fit trousers with turn-ups on the ankles, and slip on shoes that are white with pastel blue soles. He also wore a brown shoulder bag. He noticed May with some people he hasn't even met.
"May?" The boy asked. May turned to see the boy.
"Oh. Hi Wally," May greeted.
"I can't believe it! When did you get back?" Wally asked.
"Just now. It's good to see you again since I left for Professor Birch's lab," May said.
"You too," Wally said. He noticed three other people and a Pikachu with her. "Who are they?"
"This is Brendan. He's an old friend of mine. And rest of the group are my new friends. This is Sora and his girlfriend Kairi, along with Ash and Leaf, longtime friends of Sora. This is Ethan and his girlfriend, Kris, and this girl here is Lyra," May introduced. She turned to her friends. "Brendan, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Kris, Ethan, Lyra, Leaf, this is Wally. He's a friend of mine."
"Wait, you're Brendan?" Wally asked. "May has told me all about you." Wally took his hand and shook it.
"Nice to meet you, Wally," Brendan said. Wally sets his attention to the Keyblade wielding Pokémon Trainers.
"And it's good to meet all of you, too," Wally said.
"Back at you, Wally," Sora said.
"Are you all heading to the Petalburg City Gym?" Wally asked.
"Yeah. Why?" Sora asked.
"I was just on my way over there," Wally said. "I was going to see May's dad and if he would let me borrow one of his Pokémon so I can catch my first one."
"May's dad?" Sora asked.
"Sorry to run off, but I need to get there. I think I'll see you there, May. And it was nice to meet you three," Wally said as he took off.
"Hope to see you there, too," Sora said. He turned to May. "You don't mind if I ask you a question, do you, May?"
"I don't mind. Why?" May asked.
"And since you live here in Petalburg City, any idea what the Gym Leader is like?" Sora asked.
"Well, what I heard is that he's a real nice guy. There are some people who say that he's real strong, but he's a real nice guy and he's very handsome and a really great man," May explained.
"Sounds like you know him all so well," Kairi pointed out.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"Um, I guess you can say that," May said under her breath, giggling nervously. "Anyway, I'm going to go and do something right now."
"Go where?" Sora asked.
"Oh, nowhere special. Just gotta go and do something, just by myself. See you later," May said as she took off.
"Where could she be going in a hurry?" Sora asked.
"I wish I knew what was going through her head right now. But there's no use trying to figure it out, because we have a Gym to reach, and I have won the coin toss," Brendan said. Sora groaned.
"You don't need to rub it in," Sora said. Kairi, Pikachu, and Angel giggled as they went to find the Petalburg City Gym. They eventually reached the Gym and they looked around the place. "Hello?"
"You don't think they're close, do you?" Kairi asked.
"I don't think so. Maybe we can have a look around," Brendan said.
"Right," Sora said. They entered the Gym and saw the battlefield. As they looked for any signs of the Gym Leader or any his Pokémon around.
"Hello! Anyone home?!" Brendan yelled.
"Oh sure, yelling will make him come out," Sora said with sarcasm.
"Yeah, just keep yelling until your throat gets sore," Ash said, sharing his sarcasm.
Just then a little boy came walking into the battlefield. It was the same boy who was watching the Johto Pokémon League final battle between Sora and Ethan.
"Won't you keep it down? I'm trying to watch a video of the Johto Pokémon League and you're being too noisy," the boy said.
"Sorry about that," Sora said. "I don't think he knows a thing about peace and quiet."
"Pika," Pikachu said. The boy looked up and he realized who he was looking at.
"Oh my gosh! It's you! You're him! You're Sora, aren't you?!" The boy exclaimed with excitement.
"And who were you expecting, Jack Sparrow?" Sora asked.
"I can't believe it!" The boy yelled. He took a look at his Pikachu. "And that's your Pikachu, isn't it?" The boy took Pikachu in his arms and nuzzled his cheek. "Hello there, Pikachu."
"Um, who are you, kid?" Sora asked.
"Right! My name is Max! I was watching you battling at the Johto Pokémon League on TV! I never thought you would be here of all places!" Max exclaimed.
"So, you want an autograph or something, because I don't seem to have a pen on me at the moment," Sora said.
"Just seeing you here is just awesome enough! When your Typhlosion battled Ethan's Typhlosion, I was at the edge of my seat! Naturally, I knew his Typhlosion would fall to your Feraligatr because of it being a Water-type Pokémon," Max said. Brendan just looked at Sora.
"Wait, you won the Johto Pokémon League? You never mentioned that before!" Brendan said.
"The reason I didn't say anything about it, because I didn't want to make a big deal out of it," Sora said.
"I'll have you know I almost had him. So what if Feraligatr is a Water-type! My Typhlosion took on plenty of Water-types and won!" Ethan barked.
"You still lost, didn't you?" Max pointed out. Ethan was getting annoyed.
"Ethan, calm down. He's just a little kid," Lyra said.
"Yeah, he's not even worth it," Leaf said. Brendan stepped in.
"Okay, look. I have come here for. Gym battle with the Gym Leader of the Petalburg City Gym to earn my very first Gym Badge and that's what I aim to do!" Brendan said. Max grins wickedly.
"Well, it just happens to be, I am the Gym Leader here," Max said. Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, and Lyra were skeptical about this claim since he seems too young to be a Gym Leader and too young to be a Pokémon Trainer. "Also, I'm challenging Sora to a battle."
"Sorry to tell you this, Max, but if you were a Gym Leader, then it should be me to make a challenge, not the other way around. Also, he's making the challenge first," Sora said.
"As a Gym Leader, I have made my choice and my choice is you, Sora," Max stated.
"It doesn't work that way, Max," Sora said. "Also, he won the coin toss and he gets to go first."
"It's true. Brendan has the first right," Kairi added. Max looked at Brendan and he huffs.
"Fine. He can go first," Max said, taking his position. "Okay, let's make it a three-on-three battle!" Brendan winced when he realized he just has his Treecko.
"Shoot! I haven't caught any Pokémon yet and Treecko is the only one I have!" Brendan exclaimed in his thoughts.
"So, bring out your Pokémon!" Max proclaimed.
"Now wait just a minute!" Sora stated. Max groaned, getting annoyed.
"Now what?" Max asked, irritated.
"Shouldn't there be an official referee to make it official?" Sora pointed out. Max gulped when he realized there isn't one. Then he got an idea.
"How about you be the referee, Sora?" Max suggested.
"I would, but only someone who is authorized by the Pokémon League is allowed to be the referee," Sora said.
"Don't even ask me to do it, because it's not me," Kairi added.
"None of us are," Ash said.
"Hey! How about you let out your first Pokémon just so we can get started?!" Brendan asked.
"No, you bring out yours!" Max argued.
Brendan, "No, you!"
Max, "No, you!"
Brendan, "No, you!"
Max, "No, you!"
Both are locked their faces into each other, before Sora broke them up.
"Okay kids, break it up or else you're both getting a timeout," Sora said, breaking them up. He turned to Max. "Look, is the Gym Leader or not? And don't even try to lie, because I can see right through you like glass." Max winced when he realized Sora wasn't fooled.
"You knew I was lying?" Max asked.
"Of course I did. You're too young to be a Gym Leader, let alone training any Pokémon," Sora said.
"We all figured that out," Ash said.
Just then May and Wally stuck their heads at the window.
"Max, what are you doing?" May asked. Sora, Kairi, Pikachu, Brendan, and Max all turned to see May and Wally.
"May?" Sora, Kairi, and Brendan asked.
"Hi there, sis," Max greeted.
"Sis?" Sora asked. Wally smiled at the sight of May's friends.
"Hello there, friends of May. So wonderful to see you again so soon," Wally said.
"Hey there, Wally," Max greeted him.
Peeking through the window is a tall, lean, middle-aged man with short black hair with a single fringe at the center with three edges and dark eyes. He wore a white T-shirt that is covered by a gray and maroon jacket, with the sleeves rolled up. He also wears charcoal trousers with elasticated ankles and pair of dark brown flip-flops.
"Well, what do we have here?" The man asked.
Also peeking through the window is a middle-aged woman with brown hair that is styled zigzag two pigtails, blue eyes and light pink lipstick. She wore a yellow sleeveless shirt with a white stripe covering her shoulders. She also wore a brown sash around her belly, an orange skirt, white high-heeled sandals and a pair of violet spherical earrings.
"Well, hello there," the woman greeted. Sora blinked twice.
"Am I missing something?" Sora asked.
May came in with Wally and the two middle-aged people.
"Hi mom, hi dad," Max greeted.
"Thought you were watching the video on the Johto Pokémon League, son," the man said.
"I was until I saw these three in here. And you're never going to guess we have the Pokémon League Champion of Kanto and Johto Sora Ketchum in our Gym, dad!" Max said. Wally was amazed to have met a Pokémon League Champion without realizing it.
"Dad?!" Sora and Kairi exclaimed.
"Mr. Norman?" Brendan asked. Norman looked at Brendan and smiled.
"Hi there, Brendan. It's been a while since last saw each other. Your father was just telling me you were starting your own Pokémon journey," Norman said. He then turned to the couple. "You must be Sora. Professor Birch mentioned you before. And you're Ash, Kairi Leaf, Ethan, Lyra, and Kris. Professor Birch has told me he had two guests with him when he returned from Kanto. He never mentioned you were a Pokémon League Champion," Norman said. "Anyway, my name is Norman and this is my wife Caroline."
"It's very nice to meet you," Caroline said.
"So, you're the Gym Leader?" Sora asked.
"Yes. And I can see you came here for a Gym battle, hm?" Norman asked.
"He's making the challenge first," Sora said, gesturing to Brendan.
"I see," Norman said.
Ash leaned in towards May.
Everyone all gathered to a bench to talk.
"We really do appreciate you two for bringing May all the way home," Caroline said.
"It really isn't that big a deal," Sora said. "We were just heading the same way."
"We just had no idea that May's dad is a Gym Leader," Kairi said.
"Well, I was surprised to hear your boyfriend is a Pokémon League Champion, so I thought you had your secrets, and I had mine," May said.
"By the way, dear, what happened to your bike?" Caroline asked.
"Um," May paused. She remembered being there when a Bruiser crushed her bike just before being destroyed. The Keyblade wielding Pokémon Trainers' faces turned pale when that was brought up, especially Ash since he unintentionally caused the accident. Brendan had decided to step up.
"May was involved in a little accident caused by me. So, I thought it would be better to take responsibility and pay for the bike," Brendan said. Norman smiled and he chuckled. Their faces went back to normal when Brendan had covered for them. May was moved by Brendan for covering for his friends.
"Don't worry about paying for it, Brendan. Bikes are replaceable," Norman assured.
"Also, walking is better for your health, anyway," Caroline added.
"I do appreciate you taking responsibility for it, though. And I know your father appreciates it, too," Norman said. Brendan smiled. He then turned to his daughter. "By the way, May. What Pokémon did you choose?" May smiled as she took out her Pokéball.
"You'll see. Torchic! Come on out!" May called out as she threw her Pokéball.
"Torchic!" May's Torchic chirped. Max was disappointed by his sister's choice of her first Pokémon.
"What? Why did you pick that? If it was me, I wouold have picked a Treecko," Max said. Torchic didn't like how rude that sounded and began to peck him senseless. "Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow!" Ethan just chuckled, feeling satisfied about Max's comment.
"Torchic, stop that right now!" May told her first Pokémon.
"Your Torchic's just letting off steam," Ethan said.
"I think Torchic is a fine choice as your first Pokémon," Norman said.
"And May, it's cute as a button," Caroline added. May was pleased to hear her mom say it.
"Not as cute as you are," Brendan said in his thoughts with his face turning red. Sora and Kairi both noticed how red Brendan's face was getting.
"Yeah," May agreed with her mom.
"If May is okay with Torchic as her first then I'm supporting her for this," Wally said.
"Man, I would love to have my own Pokémon. I'd just love to have a Treecko," Max said, beore he got pecked by Torchic again. "Ow! Ow! Ow! Ow! Get off of me!"
"Sora, Kairi, how about you two join us for lunch. I'm sure you two must be hungry," Caroline offered.
"Thanks," Sora said.
"We would like to," Kairi said. Caroline then turned to Brendan and Wally.
"And of course, you and Wally are welcome to join us too, Brendan," Caroline said.
"Thank you, ma'am," Wally said.
"That would be great," Brendan said. The guests joins the family for their lunch and they share tales about their past experiences, leaving out certain details such like dealing with evil monsters and having key-shaped weapons, and other worlds, and fighting alongside dinosaurs, because they figured they wouldn't believe a word of it. Pikachu, Angel, Marill, Treecko, and Torchic were given Pokémon food to eat.
"So, Sora and Kairi, May tells us you two have been traveling together for a long time," Caroline said.
"Yes. Kairi and I have been and seen different places," Sora said.
"We met all sorts of people and seen different kinds of Pokémon," Kairi said.
"That's so cool! I would love to go to different places too," Max said, souding jealous.
"And has it just been the two of you?" Carloine asked.
"It was at first. We also met someone named Tracey who happens to be a Pokémon Watcher. He traveled with me and Kairi during our trip in the Johto region," Sora said.
"We also traveled a bit with Sora's twin sister who left home to find a friend of hers when he disappeared for a time. He's safely at home," Ash said.
"That's nice to hear," Caroline said.
"Ash and Leaf joined us in our travels when we got back from exploring the Whirl Islands and right until we got back home," Kairi said.
"Since you traveled all around the Kanto and Johto regions, I can assume that you have caught loads of Pokémon, right?" Norman asked.
"We do, but we all left all of ours at home, so we only brought our partners with us," Sora said.
"So we decided to catch the Pokémon that live here in Hoenn," Kairi said.
"And have you caught any Pokémon since you came here?" Norman asked.
"So far, I caught a Taillow and my own Torchic. But mine is slightly different from hers," Sora said, referring to May's Torchic.
"Sounds to me, you''re already on your way, Sora," Norman said.
"What can you expect from the Pokémon League Champion? He is obvious awesome, but not as awesome as you, dad," Max said.
"Can you keep it down, do you want the whole neightborhood to hear?" Sora asked.
"Wow. I don't know all that much about you and I am already impressed," Wally said.
"I guess you can say that I have that kind of effect on people," Sora said. Norman turned to Wally.
"Anyway, Wally. I understand you have been looking for me. May I ask why?" Norman asked.
"I was wondering if I could borrow one of your Pokémon, just so I can catch my own. The reason I'm asking is because I'm going to be staying with my relatives in Verdanturf Town and I don't wanna be lonely," Wally said. Norman smiled.
"I understand, Wally. If you want to have your own Pokémon, then I suppose that is okay," Norman said.
"Thank you for understanding. I can wait after your battles with Brendan and Sora," Wally said.
"That's very considerate of you, Wally," Norman said. He turned to Brendan. "Since you won the coin toss, we can our battle after lunch, if you want." Brendan smiled.
"I was looking forward to it, Norman!" Brendan said with glee. As soon as they were finished with their lunch, everyone gathered into the Gym to watch the battle take place.
"How about we make this a one-on-one battle since you just have one Pokémon, Brendan," Norman said.
"I'm game," Brendan said.
"Wow! This is so exciting!" Max said.
"This is what a Gym battle must be like?" May said. Sora and Kairi turned to the siblings.
"You mean you never watched your dad battle before?" Sora asked.
"Dad would never let us watch them whenever someone would come to the Gym. He must think we would only mess up the trainer's concentration," May said.
"That makes sense," Kairi said.
"Okay, you're going right in, Vigoroth!" Norman called out as he threw his Pokéball. The Pokéball opens and let's out a white, sloth-like, bipedal Pokémon with a teardrop-shaped tuft of red fur on its forehead. It has stubby ears, two small, triangular teeth in each jaw, a brown lower jaw, and large eyes encircled by brown rings. There are two stripes on its back, which are also brown. Its arms are long, and its hands and feet have two sharp black claws. The undersides of its hands and feet have circular red pads, and its rear also has a baboon-like patch of red. The fur on its chest, tail, and sides of its maw are shaggy.
"And this Pokémon is..." Sora said, taking out his Rotom Phone.
Vigoroth, the Wild Monkey Pokémon
The evolved form of Slakoth
Type: Normal
Vigoroth is always itching and agitated to go on a wild rampage. It simply can't tolerate sitting still for even a minute. This Pokémon's stress level rises if it can't be moving
"Hard to believe that's what Slakoth evolves into," Sora said.
"Yeah, that Vigoroth looks pretty strong," Leaf said.
Brendan took out his own Pokéball and he throws it.
"Go right in, Treecko!" Brendan shouted as his Treecko enters the fray.
"Ah, so your first Pokémon is a Treecko. That's also a great choice. But can it manage against my Vigoroth?" Norman asked.
"Oh, you'll see! Treecko! Pound!" Brendan ordered. Treecko ran right at the sloth-like Pokémon.
"Vigoroth! Use Scratch!" Norman ordered. Vigoroth ran towards Treecko and swipes at the Grass Type, causing some serious damage. Sora and Kairi were impressed by Norman's skills. "Now use Hammer Arm!" Vigoroth slams both of its arms down and slams into Treecko. Brendan's Treecko was down and out after a couple of hits.
"Treecko!" Brendan gasped.
"Whoa," Sora said. "When you said your dad is strong, you weren't kidding."
"Told you my dad is awesome," Max said proudly.
Brendan runs over to his fallen partner. He carries Treecko in his arms.
"Treecko, are you okay?" Brendan asked.
"Treecko," Treecko responded.
"Don't worry about it. I know you'll get better with the proper training," Brendan said. Treecko smiled, no feeling bad about losing.
"Excellent job, Vigoroth," Norman said to his Pokémon.
"Vigo," Vigoroth said. Norman turned to Sora.
"How about it, Sora? We can have our battle right now if you want," Norman offered.
"Thanks, but the thing I haven't trained for it. I think it'll be better if I trained for it before it. So I'm not in any hurry," Sora said.
"Wait a minute. You mean you're not going to have your battle with my dad now? You're not afraid of losing are you?" Max asked.
"I never said, I was going to have it right now. So technically, I never challenged him. And who says I'm afraid of losing?" Sora asked. "So, we can have a raincheck on our battle."
"If that's what you want, then I can respect that. Besides, I'm in no hurry either," Norman said. Both Trainers shook hands, promising each other a good battle when they meet each other again. Norman turned to Wally. "Well, it looks like you'll have your wish, Wally."
"Thank you, Norman," Wally said.
"You can borrow my Vigoroth if you want," Norman suggested.
"You sure?" Wally asked.
"I'm sure. Vigiroth will listen to you when you give him a proper command," Norman said.
"Thank you, Norman. You don't know how much this means to me!" Wally said.
"I can show you the ropes if you want, Wally," Sora said. Wally turned to Sora.
"I don't wanna be a bother for you, Sora," Wally said.
"Don't worry about it. I can gurantee that you're be walking out of here with your very first Pokémon," Sora said. Wally smiled.
"Thank you, Sora," Wally said.
"How about I come, too!" Max suggested.
"Don't think so, Max. I wouldn't call it a good idea. You might end up getting hurt," Sora said.
"What? No I won't!" Max argued.
"That's if you get in the way, and I'm not letting that happen," Sora stated.
"Just because you're a champion, doesn't mean you can tell me what to do!" Max barked at him.
"That's enough, Max. Sora is right. I know you love Pokémon so much, but I don't want you to get hurt," Caroline said.
"But mom," Max groaned.
"No buts, Max," Caroline said. Max groaned as he pouted. Sora made the call since he knew there was a chance that Heartless, Nobodies, or Unversed would come and attack without warning, so they had to be ready to summon their Keyblades just in case. Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May Pikachu, Vigoraoth, and Wally went outside to find some wild Pokémon and the Plusle and Minun kept following them. Xipak and Celeste weren't too far behind.
They reached a point outside of town into a grassy area.
"Now, Pokémon live in the grass, don't they?" Wally asked.
"Some of them do. There are some that live up in the trees and in the water. So, it'll be good to start here," Sora said.
"There should be one that should come out any moment now," Kairi said.
"So keep your eyes opened," Lyra said.
"Whoa!" Wally exclaimed in shock. A Pokémon came right out. It's a humanoid Pokémon with a white body. It has thin arms and legs that widen toward the feet. There is a wispy extension trailing off the back of its feet, creating the overall impression of a nightgown or oversized dress. Most of its face is covered by green hair that resembles a bowl cut, but a pair of pinkish-red eyes is sometimes visible. There are two flat, red horns on top of its head: a large one toward the front and a smaller one at the back. "Wow! A Ralts!" Wally cheered.
"What a cutie!" Kairi said, taking out her Rotom Phone and scanned it.
Ralts, the Feeling Pokémon
Type: Psychic/Fairy
Ralts senses the emotions of people using the horns on its head. This Pokémon rarely appears before people. But when it does, it draws closer if it senses that the person has a positive disposition.
The wild Ralts looked at Wally and he looked right back at the wild Ralts.
"Okay, Wally. Here's your chance," Ethan said.
"Okay them Vigoroth, use Scratch," Wally ordered. Vigoroth went towards Ralts and lands a scratch. Ralts had fallen to the ground. Sora hands Wally a Pokéball.
"You're going to need it," Sora said.
"Thanks," Wally said, taking the Pokéball and he throws it. The Pokéball struck Ralts and he flows inside it. The Pokéball wobbles around for a few moments before stars swirls around it. Wally's face lit up. "Yes! I have my own Pokémon!"
"Congratulations, Wally. A pretty good catch," Sora complimented.
"Thank you very much, Sora," Wally said. "I'll take very good care of Ralts." Sora smiled.
"I know you will," Sora said.
"Now let's head back," Leaf said.
"What's your hurry?" A voice echoed. Everyone looked around. The voice was familiar to Sora, Kairi, and Ethan.
"Who said that?" Wally asked.
"Show yourself!" Sora demanded.
"In due time. Perhaps, you would like to see some familiar faces," the voice said. Dusks appeared before the group, alarming everyone.
"What are they?" Wally asked.
"Sora, are these the Heartless or the Nobodies?" May asked.
"They're Nobodies!" Sora said, summoning his Keyblade. This surprised Wally greatly. Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, and Lyra summoned theirs as well. "Take them down!"
WIth that said, they engaged the Nobodies. Ethan struck down a Dusk as another slithered out of the way and struck him. Lyra threw her Keyblade, hitting another Dusk, destoying it. The number of Dusks were dwindling, but then, Reapers appeared and charged at them with their syches. Sora blocked the syches with his Kingdom Key as Ethan blocked with his Heart Gold Ho-Oh. Ash casts a fire spell and burned a Dusk as a few Creepers appeared and took the shape of spears. Kairi casts a balloon spell and they left the Creepers in pink and blue sparkles when they made contact. Kris held her Ice Crystal Suicune in the air.
"Music!" Kris shouted. Several music notes appeared, giving off a rainbow flash. The music notes swirled around the Nobodies and destroyed them.
"Hey, that was awesome, Kris!" Ethan said.
"I learned it a little while ago. What did you think?" Kris asked.
"I think music magic suits you, Krissy," Ethan said.
"Glad you like it, sweety," Kris said.
"How about we save the praise for after we deal with the Nobodies?" Leaf asked.
"Right," Ethan and Kris agreed.
As the fight raged on, Plusle and Minun watched the fight going on as Xipak and Celeste helped out from their hiding places by firing Thunderbolt and Swift. Plusle and Minun turned to where the attacks were coming from, but they vanished through the shrubs.
The Keyblade wielding Pokémon Trainers have eliminated the last of the Nobodies and dismissed their Keyblades.
"That was amazing. You took out those white things," Wally said.
"We're used to this sort of thing," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"Marill," Marill said.
Just then, Marluxia appeared before the group, but this time, he had his hood down.
"Most impressive. You have improved since our last meeting," Marluxia said.
"You know this guy?" Brendan asked.
"Sort of. He's with Organization XIII. The group of bad guys we told you and May about. Trust me when I say, Team Magma are amatuers compared to them," Ash explained.
"I remember your voice. Sora, Kairi, Tracey, and I saw you that one time in Johto," Ethan said.
"I see you recognize me, just as well I recognize you," Marluxia said.
"Just who are you, and what do you want?" May asked.
"Yeah, we didn't catch your name when we met the last time," Sora pointed out.
"Indeed, you did not. I was rude for not telling you my name when I know all of yours. My name is Marluxia, and as Ash has explained to you, I am a member of Organization XIII. And forgive me for repeating this question, but why assume that I want anything?" Marluxia asked.
"You wouldn't just show up for nothing," Lyra said.
"Marill!" Marill agreed.
"Yeah, the only reason you keep showing up is just so you can pick a fight with us," Kairi said.
"Eevee!" Angel said.
"I guess that is true for our case," Marluxia said.
"You could tell us about the Unversed since you're here!" Kris said.
"Yeah, who is the masked boy and why is he controlling the Unversed?" Ethan asked.
"I know nothing of any masked boy or the creatures you spoke of," Marluxia denied.
"You're lying!" Leaf accused.
"I assure you, I speak the truth," Marluxia said.
"You can play dumb all you want, but it's not going to help you out," Ash said.
"Maybe not," Marluxia said. He laughed.
"What's so funny?" May asked.
"It's knowing that the problems you deal with have become even more difficult. Organization XIII shall have another chance at this. And I suggest you watch your backs. That goes especially for you," Marluxia said, pointing to Sora. Inside of Sora's heart, Roxas knew he was talking directly to him in his last sentence. A corridor of darkness appeared and Marluxia has left in it.
"Hey, wait!" Brendan said.
"Let him go, Brendan," Kairi said.
"How was he able to come and go like that?" Wally asked.
"He's a Nobody. Just like those monsters you saw us fight. The only difference is, he still has his human form," Sora explained.
"A Nobody?" Wally asked.
"It's like this. There are also other monsters that we fight. They're called the Heartless. They're creatures that come from the darkness in the hearts of people. And when the darkness in their hearts overwhelm them, then they turn into a Heartless. When a person with a strong heart turns into a Heartless, a Nobody is created. Organization XIII has control over all of them," Sora said.
"That sounds scary," Wally said.
"This is the first time we ever saw the Nobodies, and we didn't see the Heartless. They're using the Keyblades to fight them off," Brendan said.
"That's what they call their swords," May said.
"I gotta say, you're a brave bunch. You took on those monsters and you weren't scared one bit," Wally said.
"How about we head back to the Gym? My dad's probably wondering why we're taking so long," May said.
"May's right. You gotta give Vigoroth back to him," Sora said.
"Vigoroth," Vigoroth said.
"That's a good idea," Wally said.
"But let's head for the Pokémon Center first. Just to heal Ralts up," Kairi said.
"Also a good idea," Wally agreed.
With that said, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Wally, Pikachu, Angel, Marill, and Vigoroth head for the Pokémon Center to have Ralts and Treecko healed from their injuries. May was confused in seeing Nurse Joy again, but the Nurse Joy there explained that the Nurse Joy she met is her older sister. This surprised May greatly when she was told this. Sora told her it was the same thing with him when he got started as a Trainer.
Once Treecko and Ralts were completely healed from their injuries, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Wally, Pikachu, Angel, Marill, and Vigoroth returned to the Petalburg City Gym with Norman, Caroline, and Max waiting for them.
"I trust you were successful in your catch, Wally?" Norman asked.
"Yes. Your Vigoroth was very helpful," Wally said.
"I thought as much," Norman said.
"Thank you for your assistance," Wally said. He turned to the group. "It was nice seeing the all of you again. Hopefully, I get to see you again."
"You too, Wally," Kairi said.
Wally took off for home as he gets ready to pack.
"Have you changed your mind, Sora? We can still have that battle in case you have," Norman said.
"No, I haven't changed my mind. Besides, I think there should be other Gyms I should check out first," Sora said.
"Then, you should go and see the Rustboro City Gym," Norman said, handing Sora a Badge case. Sora accepts it.
"Thanks, Norman," Sora said.
"Your welcome, Sora. And I have one for you two, too," Norman said, handing the Badge cases to Brendan and May. They accept them.
"How about we split up for right now? All of us will meet up with each other in Rustboro City," Ash said.
"That's a great idea. It'll give each of us to explore on our own," Ethan said.
"And we can keep in touch with each other, since we all have each other's numbers," Lyra said.
"Marill!" Marill said.
"Yeah, that's quite a plan," Brendan said. "I'll come back to battle you again once I get stronger and have more Pokémon."
"I'm already looking forward in our rematch," Norman said.
"May, for a while, I'm gonna have to be on my own, just so I can bond with my Treecko," Brendan said.
"Okay," May said.
"What about you, May?" Kairi asked.
"I'm thinking the same thing. Maybe I can get to know my Torchic," May said.
"Since you don't know anything about Pokemon! I should go, too!" Max said, adjusting his glasses. Norman nodded.
"Your brother does know a lot about Pokémon, and he just might be a big help to you," Norman said.
"And a lot less worry for me," Caroline said.
Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Pikachu, Angel, and Marill weren't sure if they should because of the Heartless, the Nobodies, and the Unversed out on the loose, but May knew she'll have to keep him safe.
"Oh, and be sure to download a PokéNav app on your phones. The Pokémon Navigator or PokéNav for short, will come in handy to help know where you are," Norman said.
"That's a great idea, Norman," Sora said. The young Pokémon Trainers downloaded the PokéNav feature on their Rotom Phones.
"Now, to get to Rustboro City, you'll have to get through the Petalburg Woods. It's good a start as anywhere," Norman said.
"Petalburg Woods, got it," Sora said.
"May, be sure you take good care of your brother," Caroline said.
"I will, mom," May said.
"Well, we'll be off," Sora said.
With that said, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, and Max started to go their separate ways. Xipak and Celeste continued to follow Sora, Kairi, Pikachu, and Angel as did Plusle and Minun.
After splitting up from the rest of their friends for a while, Sora, Kairi, Pikachu, and Angel made a stop as Kairi was about to get cooking for the two of them and the Pokémon. Sora have let out Torchic and Taillow.
"Think I can help, Kairi?" Sora asked.
"You're very sweet, Sora. But I think I can handle it," Kairi said.
"Well, it's only fair that it'll get done faster if we work together," Sora insisted.
"Oh, okay, Sora. You can dice the carrots, but be careful not to cut yourself," Kairi told her boyfriend. Kairi handed him some carrots and he began cutting them.
"Hey, this is pretty easy when you get the hang of it," Sora said as he kept cutting. He accidentally cuts his finger. "Ouch!" Kairi turned in concern.
"Sora! What's wrong?" Kairi asked concerned.
"I cut my finger!" Sora said. Kairi took his hand and cleaned and disinfected the wound on his finger. She placed a bandaid on the cut.
"Told you to be careful, Sora," Kairi told him.
"Mom always said the same thing ever since I was little," Sora said.
"And I can bet you cut yourself, hm?" Kairi asked.
"Only a few times, but Karen just teased me about it," Sora said. "It's just a little cut, nothing to worry about."
"Only if you don't have it treated just like I just did," Kairi said. Sora knew she was right to say it to him.
"Point taken," Sora said.
"Just try not to cut yourself again, Sora," Kairi said.
"I'll try not to," Sora said. Just when they were making the meal, the couple and the Pokémon heard some rustling in the bushes nearby. They all stopped what they were doing. "What is that?"
"You don't think it's some Heartless this time, do you?" Kairi asked.
"After dealing with Unversed and Nobodies earlier, it's very likely. Be ready just in case," Sora said. Sora and Kairi summoned their Keyblades just in case. when Plusle and Minun both came out. "Wha?"
"Pika?" Pikachu asked. Kairi looked the two Pokémon with hearts at her eyes.
"Oh! They're so cute!" Kairi gushed.
"Eevee!" Angel said.
"Plusle?" Plusle asked.
"Minun?" Minun also asked.
Pikachu went up to greet the newcomers with a paw and they both took the paw at the same time.
"Were you two making that big noise?" Sora asked. They couple took out their Rotom Phones and scanned them.
Kairi's Rotom Phone:
Plusle, the Cheering Pokémon
Type: Electric
Plusle always acts as a cheerleader for its partners. Whenever a teammate puts out a good effort in battle, this Pokémon shorts out its body to create the crackling noises of sparks to show its joy.
Sora's Rotom Phone:
Minun, the Cheering Pokémon
Type: Electric
Minun is more concerned about cheering on its partners than its own safety. It shorts out the electricity in its body to create brilliant showers of sparks to cheer on its teammates.
"Plusle and Minun, huh? Where did you come from?" Sora asked. "You two gave us quite a scare."
"Maybe they came here because they were hungry, isn't that it?" Kairi asked. Plusle and Minun nodded. "Oh, you two little cuties are welcome to join us if you want." Sora and Kairi continued making their meal. Kairi had prepared the Pokémon food for Pikachu, Angel, Torchic, and Taillow. Plusle and Minun took a taste of Kairi's well-prepared Pokémon food and they instantly liked it. "Is that good?" Plusle and Minun nodded. Torchic and Taillow liked the tase of the food Kairi's cooking. Once the meal was enjoyed and done with, they got cleaned up and they got ready for bed with Plusle and Minun joining them.
On the very next morning, Sora had woke up and saw Plusle and Minun sleeping with Pikachu and the other Pokémon.
"You two still here?" Sora asked.
"I think they just wanna be with us," Kairi guessed. Plusle and Minun woke up. "If you two girls wanna be with the group, then you're welcome to be with us." She took out two Pokéballs and held them in front of Plusle and Minun. Plusle and Minun pressed the buttons and they flowed inside the Pokéballs and stars swirls around them confirming the catch. "Looks like I have my first two catches in Hoenn."
Now Kairi has caught two Pokémon of the Hoenn region and their team is ever expanding. In order to reach Rustboro City, the couple will have to go through the Petalburg Woods. Will they make it through it okay or will they end up getting lost in it? Just you wait and see.