Episode 277: A Six Pack Attack
We open up to the night after Sora's battle against Norman. Brendan was fired up for the match, and he wanted to be ready just as bad and earn the Balance Badge. He opened Grovyle's Pokéball and let out his partner.
"You ready to start training, Grovyle?" Brendan asked.
"Vyle," Grovyle nodded.
"I thought as much. Norman has a Slaking. It's even stronger than that Vigoroth you battled when you were a Treecko. If we're going to win against that Slaking, you and I are going to practice," Brendan said. He summoned his Keyblade. "Slaking knows how to use Hyper Beam, and that's going to deal a lot of damage on you when it hits. It also knows Power-Up Punch, so that makes its attacks even stronger. I'm going to use my magic, so you'll pretend that I'm Slaking firing Hyper Beam, and you're going to dodge my magic attacks." Grovyle nodded. "Okay, get set!" Grovyle rushes off as Brendan casts his fire spell at Grovyle. He dodged it with great speed. Brendan also fired his blizzard and thunder spells at Grovyle, but Grovyle dodged Brendan's magic. "You're doing awesomely, Grovyle! With your speed, you'll do just fine."
"Grovyle," Grovyle said.
Unknown to Brendan and Grovyle, Rei was watching them practice. She knew he was inspired by Sora's battle earlier, and he wanted to put it to good use.
On the very next day, Brendan was preparing to have his battle against Norman, so he made his choice to who to use against Norman. Sora and the rest of the group were watching the battle, but the only difference was Max was rooting for the both of them.
"The battle between the Gym Leader Norman and the challenger Brendan from Littleroot Town is about to begin! Each Trainer will be using three Pokémon each! Only the challenger is allowed to make substitutions during the battle! The match is over when all three of either Trainer's Pokémon is unable to battle! Choose your Pokémon and begin!" Kenny called out. Norman took out a Pokéball and threw it.
"You're first, Slakoth!" Norman called out. His Pokéball opened and his Slakoth came out to battle.
"You're up, Heracross!" Brendan called out. His Heracross came out to battle.
"Heracross is a good choice to use against Slakoth," Sora said.
"Yeah, but what we saw yesterday, it won't be so easy," Ash said.
"Ash is right. Norman can handle Fighting-type Pokémon thrown at him and use the type weakness to his advantage," Riku said.
"Brendan's been preparing for this day, so he has to make it count," Kairi said.
"Heracross! Use Horn Attack!" Brendan ordered. Heracross came right at the Slacker Pokémon.
"Slakoth! Use Blizzard!" Norman ordered. Slakoth blew a blizzard right at Heracross, but it plowed right through and lands a hit onto Slakoth. "Use Shadow Claw!"
"Heracross! Use Focus Blast!" Brendan ordered. Heracross built up some energy to attack. Slakoth was preparing to dodge, but Heracross came too fast and sent it right at Slakoth, resulting in a knockout.
"Slakoth is unable to battle! Heracross wins!" Kenny announced.
"Slakoth didn't even get to dodge this time," Max said.
"Brendan must have caught on to dad's strategy pretty quick," May said.
"Yeah, it might be it," Kris said.
Norman called back his Slakoth and he smiled.
"Get some rest, Slakoth. You've earned a good, long rest," Norman said. He took out another Pokéball. "Not bad, Brendan. And you know who's next!" He threw it. "Go! Vigoroth" His Pokéball opened and his Vigoroth came right out to battle.
"You still good to go, Heracross?" Brendan asked.
"Cross!" Heracross said.
"I thought so! Use Focus Blast!" Brendan ordered. Heracross sends out another Focus Blast and sent it right at Vigoroth.
"Dodge and use Flamethrower!" Norman ordered. Vigoroth dodged and fired Flamethrower right at Heracross, landing a hit and knocked it out with just one hit.
"Heracross is unable to battle! Vigoroth wins!" Kenny announced. Brendan called back his Heracross.
"Get some rest, Heracross. You've earned it," Brendan said. He took out another Pokéball and threw it. "You're up, Gravleer!" His Pokéball opened and his Graveler came right out to battle.
"Ah, a Graveler. A good choice on your part, but except for one, little detail. Vigoroth! Use Hammer Arm!" Norman ordered. Vigoroth came at Graveler with a Hammer Arm.
"Dodge and use Rollout!" Brendan called out. Graveler dodged and rolled right into the Wild Monkey Pokémon and dealt some serious damage. Keep it up!" The Rock Pokémon kept up the damage.
"Vigoroth! Use Hammer Arm!" Norman ordered. Vigoroth came at Graveler when it stopped rolling and lands a heavy hit.
"Graveler! Use Rock Throw!" Brendan ordered. Graveler hurls a Rock Throw right at the Wild Monkey Pokémon, but Vigoroth dodged Graveler's Rock Throw. "Keep going!" Graveler kept using Rock Throw again and again until Vigoroth was struck by the rocks. "Use Rollout!" Graveler starts rolling once again and struck Vigoroth repeatedly. Graveler kept going until Vigoroth was knocked out.
"Vigoroth is unable to battle! Graveler wins!" Kenny announced.
"Two down, one to go," May said.
"Brendan sure has gotten stronger since the last time," Caroline said.
"That's what spending time training will get you," Sora said.
"He's right. Brendan has learned so much since then," Ash said. Norman called back Vigoroth and smiled.
"I have to say, I am impressed, Brendan. You've improved so much since our first battle, but let's see if your training has paid off," Norman said, taking out his third Pokéball and threw it. "Go! Slaking!" His Pokéball opened and Slaking emerged from inside, ready to battle.
"Slaking, just the Pokémon I was hoping for. Graveler, stay on your toes. I've seen what this Pokémon can do, so it won't be easy," Brendan said.
"Slaking! Use Power-Up Punch!" Norman ordered.
"Graveler! Use Rollout!" Brendan ordered. Graveler rolled right into Slaking. It lands a few hits on the Lazy Pokémon, and each hit was stronger than the last. Just when Graveler was about to strike Slaking again, it took Graveler in its hands, stopping it from rolling. "Uh-oh."
"Use Power-Up Punch!" Norman ordered. Slaking lands a powerful punch onto Graveler, resulting in a knockout.
"Graveler is unable to battle! Slaking wins!" Kenny announced.
"Good job as always, Slaking," Norman said.
"Slaking," Slaking said. Brendan called back his Graveler.
"Rest up, Graveler. You did a decent amount of damage on Slaking, like I wanted you to," Brendan said. He took out his third Pokéball and held it tight. "Hey, Norman, you feeling nostalgic? Here's an old friend who wants to say hi." He threw it. "Go! Grovyle!" His Pokéball opened and his Grovyle emerged from inside. Norman was amazed and impressed.
"Wow, your Treecko evolved. And it judging by how your Grovyle looks, I can say you have done an excellent job in raising him," Norman said.
"Thanks, Norman. Grovyle's been looking forward to this rematch for a long time, and I promised him that I'd use him for this battle," Brendan said.
"You sure kept that promise. Well, let's me see how stronger your Grovyle has gotten since then," Norman said. "Slaking! Use Hyper Beam!" Slaking prepares to fire Hyper Beam right at Grovyle.
"Okay, Grovyle! Like we practiced," Brendan said. Grovyle nodded. Slaking fired Hyper Beam and then Grovyle jumped to dodge. Everyone were amazed by what they saw.
"What was that about?" Lisia asked.
"Don't let up, Slaking!" Norman said. Slaking tries to keep track on Grovyle as the Wood Gecko Pokémon literally ran circles around it.
"Is Grovyle just running and jumping?" May asked.
"And I think I have an idea on why," Rei said. Everyone all looked at her.
"What is he doing?" Naminé asked.
"I think Brendan is using Sora's strategy from his battle by using Grovyle's speed," Rei said.
"Grovyle's speed?" Kris asked.
"Yes. As you know, Treecko and Grovyle are both agile Pokémon, so their speed isn't something to cough at. The same can be said for Combusken. I thought it might have been the case when Brendan was practicing along with Grovyle last night," Rei said.
"Slaking! Use Earthquake!" Norman ordered.
"Grovyle! Jump!" Brendan shouted. Grovyle dodged Slaking's Earthquake. "Bullet Seed!" Grovyle fired Bullet Seed right at Slaking, hitting it right in the face. "Use Dragon Claw!" Grovyle slashed Slaking with Dragon Claw. "Use Leaf Blade!" Grovyle came at Slaking with a Leaf Blade, but Slaking blocked it by catching it with his hands.
"Good! Use Power-Up Punch!" Slaking lands a punch onto Grovyle. Due to its effects, it increases its attack power. "Use Hyper Beam!"
"Dodge it, quickly!" Brendan called out. Grovyle managed to get up, but Slaking fired Hyper Beam, hitting Grovyle on the mark. It deals a lot of damage on Grovyle. "You okay, Grovyle?" The Wood Gecko Pokémon gets up on his feet, still willing to keep going. Grovyle's body started to emit a green aura. "That's Overgrow."
"What's that?" May asked.
"It's Overgrow," Riku said.
"If I remember right, it's the ability that Bulbasaur, Chikorita, Treecko, and their evolved forms all share that boosts up the power of their Grass-type moves when they're in a tight spot," Ethan said.
"That's exactly right, Ethan," Rei said. "Grovyle's Grass-type moves shall become even stronger."
"Let's wrap this up! Power-Up Punch!" Norman ordered. Slaking rushes right at Grovyle.
"Use Leaf Blade!" Brendan ordered. Grovyle rushed at Slaking.
Both Pokémon lands a hit on each other and they waited to see which one was going to keep standing. Slaking felt its injuries kick in and fell on the ground, beaten.
"Slaking is unable to battle! Grovyle is the winner! The winner of the battle is Brendan from Littleroot Town!" Kenny announced.
"Yes! Way to go, Grovyle!" Brendan praised his partner.
"First Sora, and now Brendan beaten dad!" May said.
"Two days in a row," Kairi said.
Norman shook hands and he smiled right at Brendan.
"Good job, Brendan. You certainly grew so much stronger since our first battle, and you just proved it to me," Norman said.
"I'm glad I was able to impress you, Norman," Brendan said.
"And you did. And as proof of your victory here in the Petalburg City Gym, I am pleased to present you the Balance Badge," Norman said, presenting him the Balance Badge. Brendan accepted it.
"Thanks," Brendan said. He placed the Balance Badge in his Badge case. "Five down, three to go." Sora, Kairi, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, May, Max, Lisia, Rei, Pikachu, Angel, Eevee, Azurill, and Marill walked up to Brendan.
"Now that we have what we came for, we'll be on our way throughout the rest of the Hoenn region," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"Yeah, you're right. That's going to be in Fortree City," Brendan said.
"We can take off as soon as we're ready," Lyra said.
"Lyra's right. We could pick up some supplies and other essentials," Leaf said.
Later, the group has gotten what they needed and prepared to take off for their journey.
"Sorry that we can't stay a little while longer, mom and dad, but as you know, our journey continues," May said.
"It's not a big deal, May. Your Pokémon journey has to continue. Also, your Master will be continuing your training as a wielder of the Keyblade," Norman said.
"We ask that you be careful, honey," Caroline said.
"I will, mom," May said.
"The same can be said for the rest of you. From what we heard about the Heartless and the Organization, you'll be in the fight of your lives. Just remember what you're fighting for," Norman said.
"We won't forget," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"You've been a gracious host, Norman," Rei said, bowing her head in respect.
"Well, we'll be going now," Sora said.
"We'll be in touch," Ash said.
"Take care," Caroline said.
"And look after your brother, May," Norman said.
"I will," May said.
With that said, the group have gone on their way. May and Max took one last look at their house and then took off together. As they walked down the streets of Petalburg City, Brendan thought of his father.
"Master, would it be okay that we drop by my dad's lab in Littleroot Town?" Brendan requested.
"Is there a special reason for it, Brendan?" Rei asked.
"Well, it's just, I thought of dropping in at some point, and I wanted to see my dad and everything," Brendan said.
"You know, it's been a while since we saw your dad since Dewford Island," Kairi pointed out.
"And that brings up the subject: Does your dad know about you having a Keyblade?" Lyra asked.
"Well, I did tell him when I first got it, and he was pretty surprised. When I explained to him about my first against that giant Heartless, he understood. It's my mom I'm worried about since I asked my dad not to tell her, and he assured me that he'll keep it a secret from because I didn't want her to worry, and I know she's going to doubt it because she thinks that magic is just a thing of fairytales," Brendan said.
"We felt that way, too, Brendan," Kris assured.
"I'm sure she'll understand when we explain it to her," Rei said.
"I think we'll all explain together," Naminé said.
"And we all have your back," Riku said.
"Because that's what you do for a friend," Lisia said.
"And I would back you up to the end, Brendan, and I always will," May said. Brendan felt like to have such supportive friends.
"Thanks, guys," Brendan said.
"Okay, everyone, let's make a detour to Littleroot Town," Sora said.
"I couldn't say it better myself, Sora," Rei agreed.
With that said, the group started to make their way back to Littleroot Town to pay Professor Birch a visit. As they arrived to Littleroot Town, they were just a couple of miles towards Professor Birch's lab.
"Here it is, Professor Birch's lab," Ethan said.
"This brings back some memories," Brendan said.
"Yeah, it's where I got my Torchic and began my journey," May said.
"Yeah, and it was where we also first encountered the Unversed after just learning about them," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"You think he's inside right now?" Naminé asked.
"If I know my dad, he's probably doing some fieldwork on some wild Pokémon right about now," Brendan said. Suddenly, a jeep came driving by, alarming everyone, except for Brendan. "And right on cue."
"Brendan, is that you?" Professor Birch asked.
"Hi, dad!" Brendan greeted.
"Hello, Professor Birch," Sora greeted.
"Ah, Sora, Kairi, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Riku, Naminé, so good to see all of you again," Professor Birch said.
"Likewise, professor," Ash said.
"I'm Rei Sakura, your son's teacher," Rei said.
"Ah, you're the Rei my son mentioned to me before. It's good to finally to put a face to a name," Professor Birch said, smiling. He noticed Lisia with them. "And you must be Lisia, Wallace's niece."
"Pleased to meet you, professor," Lisia said.
"What brings you all to my neck of the woods?" Professor Birch asked.
"We were going to leave for Fortree City, but we wanted to stop by and see you first," May said.
"How nice," Professor Birch said.
"Anyway, where were you going in such a rush, dad?" Brendan asked.
"I was just on my way back to my lab. I told Professor Oak I was going to meet up with him there, but I lost track of time with my research," Professor Birch explained.
"Professor Oak's coming?!" Sora and Max both exclaimed.
"Yes," Professor Birch confirmed.
"It's been a while since we saw him," Leaf said.
"Yeah, and here's coming here. He's going to be surprised to see us," Ash said.
"Why don't you come along? We can meet up with him ahead of time," Professor Birch said.
"Sure," Riku said.
Sora, Kairi, Lisia, May, Max, Pikachu, and Angel got in the jeep as the rest rode on Charizard, Venusaur, Arcanine, and Camerupt to get there.
"Oh, I thought I should tell you that Professor Oak will be bringing some guests with him," Professor Birch said.
"Guests? Who?" Kairi asked.
"I'm not quite sure, but they said they would like to see Pokémon that can be found in the Hoenn region, and not the Kanto region, so I told him it was fine with me," Professor Birch said. They arrived to the lab just in time. Professor Birch's assistant stood outside with a Treecko, a Torchic, and a Mudkip. "Joshua, has Professor Oak and his guests arrive yet?"
"Not yet, professor," Joshua said. "I'm sure he's waiting down at the port."
"Well, I have to get going then. Sorry I have to cut this reunion short, son, but I gotta go pick him up," Professor Birch said.
"It's okay, dad. We can look after the starter Pokémon with Johsua until you get back," Brendan said.
"Just don't get carried away by your work," Kairi said.
"I'll try not to," Professor Birch said, chuckling. "I'll see you when I come back."
He drove off to the harbor as the group were looking over the Hoenn region's starter Pokémon.
"Aw, they're so cute," Kairi cooed.
"That's what you said when you saw them, Kairi," Lyra said.
"Marill," Marill said.
"You seem to know Professor Oak pretty well," Lisia said.
"Sora knew him for as long as he can remember," Kairi said.
"Really? I don't believe it," Max said, sounding a little jealous.
"It's true. Professor Oak treated Sora's mom like she was his own daughter. He was even there for her when his dad died," Kairi said.
"And he loved Kaito like he was his own son," Rei added.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but, who do you think he's going to bring with him?" Ethan asked.
"I don't know, to be honest," Rei said.
"It'll be likely it'll be at least some of his students, learning what they can about Pokémon that live in different places in the world," Sora said. Just then, someone grabs Sora from behind and laughs.
"Hiya Sora!" Ventus greeted.
"Ven! You mean you're one of the guests?" Sora asked.
"That's right!" Ventus said.
"Ven! Don't run ahead of us!" Aqua called out when she, Karen Terra, Professor Oak, Blossom, Sparky, Thor, and Eclair all had arrived.
"Karen, Aqua!" Kairi greeted.
"Terra, Professor Oak!" Sora also greeted.
"Hi, big brother," Karen greeted her brother.
"Rei, Sora, Kairi, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, and Lyra! Good to see you again! And it's a pleasure to finally meet you in person, Brendan, May, and Max," Professor Oak said.
"Professor Oak! It's really you!" Max exclaimed. "It's really you! It is you, isn't it? Oh, yeah!" Max took out three photos of Professor Oak.
"What are those?" May asked.
"Pictures I got from the Pokémon's Friend Magazine," Max answered.
"Cool," May said.
"Yeah, cool," Brendan said. Max took out a marker.
"Can I have your autograph?" Max asked.
"Well, of course, young man," Professor Oak said, signing the photos.
"Yes!" Max said.
"You I was expecting, professor, but Karen, Ven, Terra, and Aqua, not so much," Sora said.
"And how come you're here instead of waiting for Professor Birch?" Riku asked.
"Well, your sister and cousin insisted that they accompanied me and Ventus granted permission as long as Terra and Aqua were with him. Also, we waited for a long time before we got tired of waiting and headed up here ahead of schedule," Professor Oak said. "There you go, son." He hands the photos back to Max. He notices Lisia with them.
"A new friend, I presume?" Professor Oak asked.
"It's nice to meet you, Professor. My name is Lisia," she introduced herself. Aqua turned to her in shock.
"Lisia? As Lisia, the Pokémon Contest Idol of Hoenn?" Aqua asked.
"Pika?" Eclair asked.
"That's me," Lisia said.
"I thought you looked familiar because I saw you on the covers of magazines," Aqua said.
"Brendan, May, Max, and Lisia, meet my twin sister, Karen, and these two are Terra and Aqua. And this kid here is my cousin Ventus, but we call him Ven," Sora said. "Terra, Aqua, Ven, these are Brendan, May, her brother Max, and Lisia; Aqua already knows that." Aqua puffs up her cheeks. "And meet their Pikachu, Blossom, Sparky, Thor, and Eclair.
"Pikachu," Blossom greeted.
"Pika," Thor said.
"Pi," Eclair said.
"Pikachu, Pika!" Sparky said.
"For a moment I thought he was Sora's little brother," May said.
"I would think the same thing, May. I mean they do look alike," Brendan said.
"But, Ven seems to be much cuter than Max," May said. Luckily, Max didn't hear her say it because he was still astounded to meet Professor Oak in person. May approached Karen. "It's finally nice to meet you, Karen."
"Likewise, May. Tell me, has Kairi been doing a good job, keeping my brother in place?" Karen asked.
"You know it, Karen," May said. Ventus looked over to the starter Pokémon of Hoenn and he went up to them. "Sora and Kairi told me some nice things about you."
"I hope it's all nice," Karen said.
"Pikachu," Blossom said.
"Are they they the beginning Pokémon of Hoenn?" Ventus asked, astounded in seeing them for the first time.
"They are, Ven. Treecko's a Grass-type, Torchic's a Fire-type, and Mudkip's a Water-type," Sora said.
"They're so cool!" Ven said. "In Kanto, you get Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. And in Johto, you get Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile."
"Professor, tell me what kind of Pokémon you got with you!" Max exclaimed with glee.
"Max, stop pestering the professor!" Leaf scolded.
"Now, now, Leaf, don't be so hard on him," Professor Oak said. "I do have a few with me." He took out three Pokéballs and tossed them. "Come on out, everyone!" The Pokéballs opened and a Bulbasaur, a Charmander, and a Squirtle came right out. Max's face lit up like it was Christmas.
"It's Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander!" Max exclaimed with glee.
"You brought these three with you?" Ethan asked.
"Well, Professor Birch wanted to see these three, but I just couldn't refuse him," Professor Birch said.
"That makes sense," Ethan said.
Ash looked right at Ventus, Terra, and Aqua and saw the resemblance to their Viento, Gaia, and Cascade uncanny. As he kept looking at them, Aqua was feeling weirded out.
"Ash, is there something on my face?" Aqua asked. Ash shook his head.
"Uh, sorry," Ash apologized. "I just have a lot on my mind."
"Are you sure? You looked like you were seeing a ghost," Aqua said.
"More like three ghosts," Ash said in his thoughts.
Max takes a closer look at Bulbasaur's bulb up close.
"So that's what a Bulbasaur's bulb looks like up close. And then the bulb becomes a flower when it evolves all the way to Venusaur, right?" Max asked.
"Yes, that's right. You certainly know your Pokémon facts," Professor Oak said.
"And that's because I learned everything I know from listening all your lectures, professor," Max said. He chuckled as he poked the bulb, but it only irritates Bulbasaur. "Look, it's so soft."
"Uh, Max, that's not a good idea," Aqua said.
"She's right. You should be careful how you touch it!" Professor Oak said.
"Huh?" Max asked. Bulbasaur turned around and tackled him right on the ground.
"You okay, Max?" May asked with concern. Max got back up and he chuckled again.
"Yeah, I'm okay. That Bulbasaur's got one mean Tackle," Max said. He then went upnto Charmander and Squirtle. He started to pull on their face, unintentionally irritating them. "Charmander's so cozy and warm, and Squirtle is just so cute!" Charmander then fired Ember right in his face. "Charmander's Ember." Squirtle fired a Bubble into Max's face. "Along with Squirtle's Bubble sure hits the spot." Professor Oak just laughed.
"Well, there's no better way to learn about Pokémon attacks than through first-hand experience!" Professor Oak said.
"Is that how you learned?" Max asked.
"Mm-hm, I sure did. You wear your scars like a badge of honor," Professor Oak said.
"Yes, sir!" Max said.
"You learn something new everyday," Terra said.
"And that's what not to do, Ven," Aqua said.
"Anyway, how are my family doing, Karen?" Kairi asked.
"They're doing okay. They wanted to send you their love when I see you. Same with aunt Cattleya, uncle Danny, and Yuki, too, Sora," Karen said. Sora and Kairi smiled at that.
"What about the D-Team? How are they?" Sora asked.
"They're actually doing alright. Max and Zoe went on a few dates while Rex was getting to know his parents. Chomp, Paris, and Ace missed you, Pikachu and Angel," Terra said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"D-Team?" May asked.
"Hey, aren't they the ones with those dinosaurs you mentioned before?" Ethan asked.
"Yeah, that's them," Sora said.
"Organization XIII and that Seth guy had a hand in it, too, until we put a stop to them," Ash said.
Sora and Kairi were glad Max, Zoe, and Rex were doing so well since they last saw them. Unknown to the group, the starter Pokémon all went down the way while they spoke.
"Say, why don't we go inside and wait for Professor Birch to come back just so he can have a look at Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander?" Rei suggested.
"That's not a bad idea," Professor Oak said. He took out their Pokéballs just so he could call them back, but gasped when he saw them gone. "Oh no! They're gone!"
"What?!" Lyra exclaimed.
"Rill?" Marill asked.
"Treecko, Mudkip, and Torchic are gone, too!" Riku said.
"We better go and find them," Naminé said.
"Yeah, they couldn't have gone far," Ven said.
"This is bad. The professor trusted me to keep an eye on them, and now look what happened," Joshua said.
"It's not your fault, Joshua. It happens to the best of us," Brendan assured.
"He's right. We just gotta find them before something happens," Terra said.
"Luckily it won't be so hard. Look," Ventus said, pointing their footprints.
"Footprints," Kris said.
"Good eye, Ven," Lisia said.
"We just gotta follow them and see where they go," Kairi said.
"I'll have to come along. I have their Pokéballs with me," Professor Oak said.
With that said, Sora, Kairi, Karen, Ventus, Terra, Aqua, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Brendan, May, Max, Lisia, Rei, Professor Oak, Pikachu, Angel, Blossom, Sparky, Thor, Eclair, Eevee, Azurill, and Marill went off to find the starter Pokémon.
Speaking of which, the six Pokémon were frolicking in the forest unaware of a Tropius sleeping soundly in the woods. As Tropius slept, Bulbasaur, Charmander, Squirtle, Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip came by the sleeping Tropius. Charmander then gave off a sneeze, accidentally using Ember. It hits Tropius in the face and woke it up. Tropius looked around and looked down at the smaller Pokémon. When it saw Charmander and Torchic, it became angered, knowing that one of them spewed Ember in its face, and not caring which one it was. Tropius then flapped its wings, unleashing a Gust. It blew the Pokémon away, but it came after the Fire-types. Tropius looked around for them. The six Pokémon started to run as Tropius is looking for them. It flew up in the air, looking for them. It fired a Magical Leaf to cut the bushes to make it easier to find them. Seeing them, Tropius goes after them.
Over to Professor Birch, he reached the port, and he questions a sailor.
"Professor Oak already left?" Professor Birch asked.
"That's right. He and the kids with him said they couldn't wait any longer and he said he was heading for your lab, professor," the sailor said.
"Well, thank you," Professor Birch said. His Rotom Phone rings, so he answered it. He saw it was Joshua calling him. "Ah, Joshua, I was about to call you. Has Professor Oak and his guests made it there safely?"
"They have, professor, but that's not why I'm calling," Joshua said.
"Then what?" Professor Birch asked.
"It's the Torchic, Mudkip, and Treecko we were preparing to give to the new Trainers, and the Squirtle, Bulbasaur, and Charmander he was bringing along! They've gone and wondered into the forest! I only took my eyes off of them for five minutes, and then they were gone!" Joshua said.
"You did the right thing by telling me, Joshua and I'm sure it wasn't your fault," Professor Birch said.
"I'm glad. Brendan, his friends, and Professor Oak are already looking for them as we speak!" Joshua said.
"I'm glad someone is on the case! I'll be right there!" Professor Birch said. He breaks contact with Joshua and got in his jeep to drive back to his lab.
Over to the group, they were searching for the wondering Pokémon and saw the destroyed shrubbery.
"What could have happened here?" Lisia asked.
"Judging by how these were cut, I would say a Pokémon with a cutting attack did this. I would say either Razor Leaf or Magical Leaf," Professor Oak said.
"That's a good guess as anything. I hope those little ones didn't provoke whatever did this," Rei said.
"Me too, because it looked like a big Pokémon," Naminé said.
"Azurill," Azurill chirped.
"But at least the tracks are still fresh. And it's a good thing none of them can fly otherwise we'd have a hard time figuring out where they went," Ventus said. This gives Sora an idea.
"Fly," Sora said. He took out Taillow's Pokéball and threw it. "Come out, Taillow!" His Pokéball opened and Taillow came on out. "Taillow, we need you to keep your eyes opened for six little Pokémon. A Bulbasaur, a Treecko, a Charmander, a Torchic, a Squirtle, and a Mudkip." Sora took out his Rotom Phone and he showed them a picture of Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Squirtle. "Here's what three of them looks like. Come back to me when you do." Taillow nodded and flew off to find them.
"Good thinking on sending out Taillow to search, Sora," Ash said.
"Well, it's best to have a pair of eyes in the sky," Sora said.
"Now what?" Karen asked.
"We wait, that's what?" Sora asked.
Taillow flew around, searching for the starter Pokémon. The Tiny Swallow Pokémon looked around for any signs of them and then he spotted Tropius flying around. It was firing Magical Leaf at something. Taillow flew close enough, being careful in not letting Tropius see him. He spotted the starter Pokémon. Taillow knew three of them matched the picture Sora showed earlier. He flew back to inform Sora.
Speaking of which, the group waits for Taillow's return.
"I hope it doesn't take too long," Kris said.
"My Taillow will find them. I can bet all my Gym Badges that he already found them by now," Sora said.
"Pikachu," Pikachu said.
And speak of the devil, Taillow flew back to the group.
"Taillow, you find them?" Sora asked. Taillow nodded. Taillow flew ahead of them.
"Taillow wants us to follow him," Kairi said.
"Then, let's go," Professor Oak said.
With that said, the group followed the Tiny Swallow Pokémon.
Over to the starter Pokémon, Tropius was still going after them for that Ember from earlier. The group got close enough and spotted the Fruit Pokémon flying above them.
"A Tropius!" Max exclaimed.
"We identified our big Pokémon," Riku said.
"Yes, and Tropius is a Pokémon that is capable of using Razor Leaf and Magical Leaf," Professor Oak said.
"And that explains why we didn't see Tropius's tracks, because he was flying the whole time," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said. Sora took out his Rotom Phone and scanned it.
Tropius, the Fruit Pokémon
Type: Grass/Flying
The bunches of fruit around Tropius'as neck are very popular with children. This Pokémon loves fruit, and eats it continuously. Apparently, its love for fruit resulted in its own outgrowth of fruit.
"Isn't it weird that a Tropius would just happen to be in this area?" Max asked.
"That's right, Tropius don't normally occupy this area, so it must have flown here," Brendan said.
"But why does that Tropius looks so cheesed off?" Terra asked.
"I think I see why. Look!" Lisia said, pointing to the starter Pokémon. They were trying to get away, but he kept cutting their escape with Magical Leaf.
"You think they did something to provoke that Tropius?" Aqua asked.
"I would say it's most definitely, because a Tropius wouldn't be attacking them without a reason," Professor Oak said.
"Whatever the reason, Tropius has to be stopped," Sora said. He turned to Taillow. "Move in, Taillow! Use Aerial Ace!" Taillow darts right at Tropius, hitting it with an Aerial Ace. This provokes Tropius even more. It rushes at Taillow, forgetting about the starters completely. "Taillow's got Tropius's attention."
"You keep that Tropius busy, we'll get the starters," Karen said.
"You do that, sis," Sora said.
Karen, Ventus, Terra, Aqua, and their Pikachu went over to the starters and ushered them to come.
"It's okay, guys. Come with us," Terra said.
"Pika," Thor said.
The starters complied and followed the four kids and Pikachu back to the group as Tropius fired a Magical Leaf right at Taillow, landing a hit. Tropius then unleashed Gust at Taillow, landing a hit on the Tiny Swallow Pokémon.
"Taillow! Use Wing Attack!" Sora ordered. Taillow flew at Tropius and lands a hit on the Fruit Pokémon and fired Magical Leaf right at Tailloe again. "Use Quick Attack to make the leaves chase you!" Taillow uses Quick Attack to fly and force the leaves to follow him. Professor Oak was amazed and impressed by how Sora's would use unavoidable attacks to his advantage. Taillow flew past Tropius, so the Fruit Pokémon was struck by his own attack due to his large body. Tropius fell to the ground after taking some damage from Magical Leaf. Sora took out a Pokéball and threw it at Tropius. The Pokéball struck Tropius, making him flow inside and the Pokéball wobbles around and around. Stars swirls around the Pokéball to confirm the catch. Sora's Pokémon Box goes off asking him if he wants to keep Tropius with him. He chose to send Tropius to Professor Oak's lab. "And I got myself a Tropius!"
"An impressive catch, Sora," Professor Oak said, smiling. "And the way you used Magical Leaf against Tropius was a genius move."
"Thanks, professor," Sora said.
"You've certainly came a long way since you began your journey, and the way you handled your Pokémon is living proof," Professor Oak said. This made Sora smile. Professor Birch came driving in his jeep.
"Is everything alright? I came as soon as I heard about Torchic, Mudkip, and Treecko!" Professor Birch asked.
"Everything's okay, dad. They're safe," Brendan said. Everyone all nodded with agreement.
"At least tell me what happened," Professor Birch said.
Meanwhile, over to international police hq, disturbing news has come from the Orre region. Several cops were present as the sargeant came in to discuss the issue as the cops were murmuring to one another.
"Settle down, everyone, and listen up," the seargeant said. He cleared his throat. "To clarify the rumors that has been spreading, the higher-ups has confirmed what it is. Team Shadow is back, and they've revived the Shadow Pokémon project."
"The Shadow Pokémon project?" One of the officers asked.
"To those of who don't know, it actually began five years ago in the Orre region. Pokémon were having their hearts artificially shut, and being turned into fighting weapons and attack human beings without hesitation and provocation. It would have spread around the world like wildfire if the Shadow Pokémon incident hadn't been contained, and ever since, we have been keeping tabs on the Orre region since there haven't been any raise in Team Shadow activities or Shadow Pokémon sightings," the sargeant said.
"But I thought they would still be at it because Nascour and Evice are both in prison for life," another officer said.
"As it turns out, neither Nascour nor Evice are the heads of Team Shadow as it was originally believed. The Shadow Pokémon project was actually funded by the real head of Team Shadow, Greevil. His true identity is currently unknown, but we know the motive is evil," the sargeant said. "All of you were carefully selected for this assignment. Your objective is to arrest any members of Team Shadow on sight, and bring them in for interrogation."
"Yes, sir," the officers said.
"You have your assignment, so get moving," the sargeant said as the officers took their leave. Just when he was leaving, Mullock, along with Lester came up to him.
"Hey, the Shadow Pokémon case is my beat, and you know it, sarge!" Mullock said.
"What he means to say is, we should have been informed of the manner, sargeant," Lester said.
"Sorry you feel that way, but the higher-ups said that they need more officers to look into it, so there isn't anything I can do about it," the sargeant said.
"Let me make one thing perfectly clear! Since I'm the leading detective on this investigation, I get to be in charge!" Mullock said.
"You're just mad because those Team Rocket members Jessie and James got away, and you never got to collar them like you came close to do it back on the Whirl Islands, and the fact that I assinged Looker for the Team Magma and Team Aqua case," the sargeant said.
"That has nothing to do with it!" Mullock barked.
"We only request that you pass that on to the rest of the officers, sir," Lester said.
"I'll do that," the sargeant said. The officers took their leave of the room.
Meanwhile, Looker arrived to Mount Chimney, due to Team Magma's recent activity.
"This is where Team Magma was sighted, but they've been quiet since they've been here. Not to mention, Team Aqua has been quiet, too," Looker said in his thoughts. He knew neither Team Magma or Team Aqua will be quiet for long, and he had to be ready for them.
Back in Littleroot Town, everyone got back to Professor Birch's lab after the whole ordeal.
"Don't ever wonder off like that, do you understand?" Professor Birch scolded. Treecko, Torchic, and Mudkip sadly nodded. "But it's a good thing you're okay."
"Well, they had quite a day," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"They sure have," Sora agreed. "They got to know each other and I know they'll be quite inspired."
"Why don't you all stay for the night, and you can set off in the morning?" Professor Birch offered.
"That's a great idea, because we could a rest," Riku said.
With that said, the group took up on Professor Birch's generous offer. May got to know Karen and Aqua, and she has taken a real shine to them, and they have, too. Ventus and Max have hit it pretty well since they both love Pokémon, and Terra has gotten to know Brendan pretty well.
On the next morning, the group stood outside the lab.
"Well, this is where we say goodbye for now," Professor Oak said.
"Yeah, it looks like it," Sora agreed.
"So, now what?" Kairi asked.
"Well, I'll be heading over to the Orre region to pay Professor Krane a visit. He wanted my help in purification of the recent Shadow Pokémon uprising," Professor Oak said.
"Is there anything we can do to help out, professor?" Ethan asked.
"No. All of you are needed here, because of the Heartless, Nobodies, and Unversed, and you still have Gyms and Contests to enter. But I also gotten word that your friends, Max, Zoe, and Rex will be there as well," Professor Oak said.
"Well, if you see them, could you tell them that we said hi to them?" Sora requested.
"Of course, my boy," Professor Oak said.
"We'll do the same thing, Sora," Terra said.
"Kairi, May, you both have my support in your Contests," Aqua said.
"Thanks, Aqua," May said.
"That means a lot," Kairi said.
"Eevee," Angel said.
"It was great meeting you, Ven," Max said.
"Right back at you," Ventus said, shaking hands. Sora and May knew that the two of them will become rivals once they're old enough.
The group said their goodbyes and took off on their way. Rei stayed behind, but she promised to meet up with them soon, and she had to bring up the subject of Ben.
"Sora, let's split up for a while," Riku said.
"Why?" Sora asked.
"Well, because it seems like a good idea. And we don't want to be in too big group for the Organization to pick us off," Riku said.
"Eevee," Eevee said.
"You have a point, Riku," Kairi said.
"Ethan, Kris, Lyra, are you going to be with me, Kairi, and Lisia?" Sora asked.
"Actually, we're going to be with Riku, Naminé, Ash, and Leaf for a while," Kris said.
"But we'll meet up with you again," Ethan said.
"Okay. Watch your backs," Kairi said.
"You do that, too," Ash said.
With that said, Riku, Naminé, Ash, Leaf, Ethan, Kris, Lyra, Eevee, Azurill, and Marill went one way as Sora, Kairi, Brendan, May, Max, Lisia, Pikachu, and Angel went another way. Their roads may be separate, but their goals are the same. What adventures could be waiting for the group? Just wait and see if you wanna find out.
I hope you enjoyed that. This chapter shall he the prologue for my fic taking place in Pokémon XD: The Gale of Darkness. It'll feature Karen, Ventus, Terra, Aqua, and the D-Team and their dinosaurs from Dinosaur King joining in the adventure with Michael (the protagonist of the game to those who didn't know his name), and their own experience against Shadow Pokémon. But, it'll have to wait until I get done with my fic focusing on Pokémon Colosseum. That's all I wanted to say, and stay tuned if you want to see more Pokémon adventure!
