On his road to Anemone town, Sky quickly stopped at a nearby farm called Sweet Apple Acres. Upon setting off on his adventure, Sky's grandma asked her grandson to deliver a package to an old friend, Granny Smith. The boy made it to the place as he helped Applebloom with her chores. From there, he met Applebloom's older sister, Applejack, as the cowgirl challenged the teen to a battle. Despite only being their first time battling, Sky and Turtwig outsmart Aj and Sandshrew as the duo secured their first win.

Just as they were about to leave, Granny Smith informed the boy that Applejack would be joining him. The girl had always wanted to go on a journey and see the world, yet she didn't want to leave her family to handle the farm that had been around for generations. But the older woman wanted her granddaughter to have a chance to live her dream and not have any regrets. So with some convincing, the country gal packed up and was going to join Sky on the road.

After waving goodbye to her family, the pair walked through the last forest they would need to cross before arriving at Anemone town. With the sun starting to set, the teens exited the forest as they saw their destination in sight. Down below, the town of Anemone lay as the street lights were starting to turn on as some people were still walking around.

"Well, we made it," said Applejack as she dusted her hat.

"Barely," said Sky. "Come on, let's get to the Pokémon Center."

The pair continued down the hill as there was a building with a giant "P" on the front. Upon entering, they saw the lobby of the place, along with the cafeteria that was connected to it. The two teens made their way to the front counter as there was a sign that read: Ring for Service. Sky rang the bell as they waited.

"Chansey," spoke a voice.

"Huh?" said both teens.

From behind the counter, there was a Pokémon. It was round and pink; it had stubby arms and legs with no visible digits. It had small black eyes and a mouth with no visible nose. It had three long frills on each side of its head. It also had a short tail and a pouch with a white egg. Its feet, pouch, and the ends of its frills were a darker shade of pink.

"Aah! What is that?!" said Applejack as she jumped a few feet back.

"Simmer down, Aj. It's just a Chansey," said Sky as he pulled out his Pokedex.

"Chansey, the Egg Pokémon. Many other Pokémon love Chansey eggs; they're full of nutrients and tasty. Chansey moves fast and can be hard to find, so catching one is a rare treat."

"Chansey," said the big Pokémon as she welcomed the trainers to the center.

"So, what? She's the one we give our Pokémon to heal," asked Aj.

"Not exactly," spoke a voice.

It belonged to a woman who was emerging from the back.

"Thanks for covering for me, Chansey. I can take it from here. You go check on our guest in the treatment room." said the woman as her Pokémon nodded and walked back. "Sorry about the wait. I was tending to another Pokémon. I'm Nurse Redheart."

"Hey, I'm Sky, and this is Applejack."

"Howdy."

"Pleased to meet you both. And welcome to the Pokémon Center here in Anemone town. You'll find that we try to suit the needs of trainers and their Pokémon. Here we can treat and heal your Pokémon whenever you so choose."

"Thanks," said Sky as he and Aj handed in their Pokeballs.

"Thank you, it'll be just a moment," said Nurse Redheart as she walked away from the counter.

"Best make a call," said Sky as he started walking away.

The boy was approaching one of the video phones that the Pokémon center had as Applejack noticed him leaving.

"What are you doing, Sky?" asked Aj.

"You really never stepped one foot out of the farm, cowgirl?" asked Sky, to which Applejack shook her head. "Well, let me tell. These are video phones; these allow you to make a call. And they also have a PC, which is short for "Personal Computer." Basically, these can be used to trade different types of Pokémon whenever you want to switch out."

"You're knowledge about stuff like this," said the country gal.

"Well, there's a reason," responded Sky.

Before Applejack could ask, Sky was already making a call. A few seconds passed before the image of Celestia appeared.

"Sky, so glad you decided to call. I can see you've already made it to Anemone town. I expected you to have taken an extra day given that you had to deliver the package for grandma."

"Oh, by the way, Professor. I met someone. This here is Applejack." said Sky as the girl came into frame.

"Howdy, miss," said Aj.

"Nice to meet you," responded Celestia with a smile.

"By the way, Professor. I forgot to ask you before I left the lab. Do you know what should be the first Gym I should challenge?" asked Sky.

"Well, the closest Gym to your position is the Canterlot Gym. It's part of Canterlot City, and it's the sort of the central hub for the region. From there, you split off into multiple routes leading you to the different Gyms."

"So, how far is it from here?" asked Applejack.

"Your Pokedex has the information," said Celestia.

"Nicole," said Sky as he pulled out his Pokedex.

"That's not my name," responded the machine as she pulled the map for her trainer as Applejack looked over his shoulder. She saw the tablet and was amazed by all of its functions.

"Doesn't look that far. Two days at the very latest," said Sky before looking back at Celestia. "So looks like the Canterlot Gym is the first Gym I'm challenging."

"Sorry to rain on your parade, Sky. But unfortunately, you won't be able to challenge the Canterlot Gym. For you see, the Gym Leader there will only accept your challenge if you not only have seven badges but six pokemon." stated Celestia.

"Yer kiddin' right?" asked Applejack to the Professor.

"Afraid so. The Gym Leader there is the strongest of the bunch. Even on par with the Champion." said Celestia.

"So it'll be long before I challenge them, huh?" said Sky with a sigh as it seemed he would have to wait even longer than expected.

"Uh, excuse miss?" said Applejack.

"No need to be so formal with me, Miss Applejack. Any friend of Sky is a friend of mine. Feel free to call me Celestia."

"Right, uh, Celestia. Do you know if there's a way for, how do ah put this, say someone else wanted to do what Sky is doin'?"

"You mean traveling to the different Gyms and collecting the badges so that you can compete in the Pokémon League, correct?" said Celestia with a smug smile as she knew what Aj was doing.

"Uh, yeah. That. What would they need per se?"

"Well, Applejack. If you want to also compete for Gym Badges and earn a chance to compete on the biggest stage of them all. Then you're going to need a few things. I'd be happy to help you."

"Thanks," replied the country girl.

"Hey, Aj. I'm gonna get our Pokémon. I'll be in the cafeteria when you're done." stated Sky.

Applejack watched the boy head to the counter as Nurse Redheart had done a final check-up on the pair's Pokémon.

"Sky really is interesting, huh?" said Celestia as she saw how the girl looked at the boy.

"Huh? Ooh, yeah... he is," said Applejack with an embarrassing red on her face. "He's shown he's a tough cowboy if our battle is any indication."

"Ooh, so you battled him? Well, that explains why you're his companion on his journey," said the Professor.

"Well, to be honest, I had ambitions of wanting to go on a journey when I was a kid. But as I grew up, I lost focus and dedicated my attention to helping mah family keepin' our family to grow. It's been in our family for generations."

"Sweet Apple Acres, correct? Some of the best cider I've ever tasted," said Celestia.

"Appreciate the kind words, ma'am. But they convinced me to take this opportunity to live mah dream because of them and Sky. When I battled him, it's like... something inside me came alive. I can't describe it, but it felt good." said Applejack.

"Pokémon can do that to you. They touch humans in ways we cannot imagine. Even after years and years of research, we still don't know everything about them. And that's the beauty of it all." smiled Celestia. "Now then, shall we get you situated?"

"Yes, ma'am," said Aj.

After a few minutes, Celestia had managed to send over Aj's own Pokedex. Compared to Sky's, hers was a green color as the girl was amazed by all the bells and whistles the device had. Celestia also sent a badge case as the girl grabbed it from the transporter.

"Now remember, Aj. Whenever an extra Pokémon other than your main six will be transported here. And if you ever want to swap out, contact me, and I'll make the exchange."

"I appreciate you doing all this for me, Celestia."

"It's no trouble at all, Applejack. Just remember, the bond between a Pokémon and its trainer is key. It will determine whether you successfully gain those badges and have a chance at winning the League."

"Got it. Don't worry; I won't let yer advice fall on deaf ears," said Applejack.

"Good luck," said Celestia as the video call ended.

Applejack looked at her badge case as she was more determined than before. She then looked at her Pokedex as the region map was pulled up. The girl touched the icon as it showed her location and saw the same thing that Sky saw earlier. The farm girl put the stuff away as she began to head to the cafe where the boy waited.

Sky was seated at a table as he waited for Aj to be done. He was already on his second filling when the girl joined him with her food. Turtwig was also out as the small Pokémon was near his trainer on the floor, eating from a bowl of Pokémon food.

"That hungry, huh?" said Applejack as she was rather impressed by Sky's appetite.

"Well, I like food," answered the teen.

"Twig," said Turtwig as he agreed with his trainer.

"By the way, here you go," said Sky as he pulled out Aj's Pokeball that held her Pokémon.

"Thanks, sugarcube," said the girl as she grabbed her ball.

"So, mind showing which Pokémon you brought along with you?" asked Sky as he was dying to know.

"Fine," smirked the farm girl. "Come on out, bud!"

Aj tossed her Pokeball as it popped open. The white light appeared as it took shape and deceased. Standing there was a gray, elephant-like Pokémon with a thick, black band of hind running down the length of its back and extending to the tip of its long trunk, resembling a car tire. A pair of white tusks extended from the corners of its mouth. It had thin, elongated ears held out almost perpendicular to its body. Its four short legs were each encircled with a broken, black band and had three claws.

"Donphan!" trumpeted the Pokémon.

"A Donphan, cool!" said Sky as Aj pulled out her Pokedex and aimed it at her Pokémon.

"Donphan, the Armor Pokémon and the evolved form of Phanpy. Donphan curls up in a ball to attack with a high-speed rolling tackle. Such an attack can knock down a house!"

"Twig," said Turtwig as he approached the slightly bigger Pokémon.

"Donphan," said the elephant as he looked down and saw the small green creature.

"Twig," said Turtwig as he raised one of his stubby hands for Donphan to shake.

"Donphan," said the Pokémon, using his trunk to give the grass Pokémon a handshake.

"Look at them, already fast friends," said Sky as Aj put a plate of Pokémon food for Donphan to eat. "So, did you get everything sorted out with Celestia?"

"Sure did; looks like you're not the only one who's goin' to be enterin' the Pokémon League."

"In that case, that makes us rivals. But until then, we're friends. So let's make sure that we both qualify for the League."

"Right on, partner," said Aj.

After dinner, the pair stayed the night at the Pokémon center. In the morning, they awoke as they discussed their plan in the cafe. Seeing as how it would take at least a day to arrive at Canterlot City, the pair knew they had to restock on some supplies just in case they had to spend the night in the forest. After having their Pokémon checked on by Nurse Redheart and Chansey, the two teens exited the center and began to head toward the markets.

"Alright, so if we got a day's journey ahead of us, we need to make sure we're prepared," said Sky as he pulled out his Pokedex and used it to check on the different shops.

"Then how 'bout we split up? I'll handle the food and provisions for us and our Pokémon while you get the other stuff, like sleeping arrangements and cookware. Meet back here in one hour. Plus, it'll allow us to explore some of the town." said Applejack.

"Sounds like a plan. If anything happens, we contact the other on our Pokedex," said Sky as Aj nodded. The pair then parted ways for a bit.

"Let's see how much I have," said Sky as he reached into his pocket and counted up his money.

With the small amount his grandma gave him before he left, the teen had enough to get the basics of supplies. Of course, with Applejack joining him, he had to get extra in the case of emergencies, so he would have to spend a bit more, but even then, he should still have enough leftover. The boy walked into the general store as the doors slid open.

"Welcome to Anemone's General Store. What can I get you?" asked the man at the counter.

"Yeah, just doing some quick shopping. My friend and I are about to head out to Canterlot City, and we'll need some stuff in case we have to spend the night in the woods. First of all, you got some sleeping tents and sleeping bags?"

After giving the man a general list of what he needed, Sky paid the man the amount as he put it in his bag for safekeeping.

"By the way, how would you like some of our popular Pokémon food?"

"What's so popular about it?" asked Sky.

"Now that's a secret," said the man as the boy raised an eyebrow. "Last one till I have to restock, and I'll even give it to you at a discounted price."

"Fine, toss it on," sighed Sky.

"Just ensure you're careful with this stuff when you're out in the woods. Apparently, we've got some recent reports of people having some stuff stolen from them." said the man.

"Stolen? By who?" asked Sky.

"Not who. What? Witnesses say that while all they saw was a shadow sneaking off with their stuff, they identified the shape as that of a Pokémon."

"Pokémon? What kind?" asked the boy.

"Don't know. So I'd be careful. If you see a shadow, the best advice is to run." said the man as he put the food in the bag for Sky.

"I'll take that under consideration. But as my mom always said: Sometimes not knowing is good. See ya." said Sky with a smile as he grabbed the bag and waved.

"What an optimistic boy. I hope nothing bad happens," said the man as he saw the teen exit his shop.

Sky had returned to the spot where Aj told him he didn't see the girl. A few seconds later, the cowgirl called out as she was jogging toward him.

"Sorry I was late. Hope I didn't keep you waitin' too long, sugar," stated Applejack.

"Nah, I just got here. Did you get the supplies?" asked Sky.

"Sure did. By the way, I heard from one of the shop owners about some recent things being swiped. Said it was a Pokémon, but they can't tell which one since it strikes in the dead of night." said Aj.

"Oh, so you heard it too, huh?" replied Sky.

"Yup, so... does that mean?"

"We're going try to figure out what it is and catch it. You bet yer ass we are!" smiled Sky.

"Should have known," chuckled Aj as she expected the boy's answer.

"Then let's get going!" shouted Sky as he and Aj began to head along the path leading out of town and into the woods.

"Say, Sky."

"What's up, Aj?" asked the boy as they trekked through the woods.

"I didn't want to when we first met since I felt it would be intruding. But, what's with the necklace around your neck?" asked the girl as she saw the boy's accessory.

"Oh, this. My grandma gave me this before I left on my journey. It belonged to my father, who was given it by my mother. They went on a journey around my age. So in a way, I'm kinda following in their footsteps," said Sky.

As they were walking by, some rustling sounds were heard. The teens stopped as a row of bushes ahead began to shake. Sky had his arm in front of Aj as he protected the girl based on his instincts. Soon the shaking stopped as out came the cause of the sound.

"Shroom," said the Pokémon that was revealed.

The Pokémon was a mushroom-like creature. It was mainly brown above its waist, apart from a few large green spots and a green underbelly with two round feet. Its waist appears to be flared, similar to a skirt. It had a heavy unibrow, a triangular mouth, and always seemed angry.

"What the hell is that?" said Applejack as she pulled out her Pokedex.

"Shroomish, the Mushroom Pokémon. Shroomish lives deep in the forest and makes their home in moist soil, using rotted material as food. The spores it shakes from its cap are poisonous."

"That is a Pokémon?" said Aj as the creature's look fooled her.

"Hey, don't judge. Pokémon come in all shapes and sizes," replied Sky.

"I guess, still, this little guy looks like he can't do shit," said Applejack.

Shroomish heard the comment made by the country girl as it began to shout. Soon the little Pokémon began to take a stance as it bounced in place.

"Seems you pissed it off, Aj. Good job," mocked Sky.

Shroomish then opened its mouth as it fired a huge seed.

"Look out!" shouted Sky as he grabbed Applejack and leaped them out of the way.

The attack missed them as the teens fell to the ground, with Sky being directly on top of the cowgirl as he pinned her to the ground.

"Thanks, sugar," said Aj.

Sky got off and allowed her to get up as Shroomish was still looking for a fight.

"Hey, what was that for?!" shouted Applejack as she didn't like the Pokémon trying to attack them.

"Well, you did talk shit about him," said Sky as Aj glared at her companion.

"Fine, he wants to fight. So be it. Donphan, show 'em yer strength!" shouted Aj as she pulled out her Pokéball and threw it.

"Donphan!" shouted the elephant as it landed with a thud.

"Shroomish!" yelled the mushroom as it opened its mouth and spat out a powdered color cloud.

"Donphan, move!" shouted Aj.

Her Pokémon heard its mistress command as he moved out of the cloud's path.

"Careful, Aj. That's Stun Spore. If it hits Donphan, he's gonna be paralyzed!" warned Sky.

"Thanks for the heads up, partner. Donphan, use Rollout!" stated Aj.

"Donphan!" shouted the elephant.

He then curled into a ball as it began to move at high speed and made its way toward Shroomish. It was leaving a trail of destruction behind it as the mushroom leaped out of the air. It bounced to a nearby tree and then bounced off. It opened its mouth once more as the seed bomb attack from earlier was fired and collided with Donphan as the elephant turned the corner. It caused the elephant to unfurl as it felt the attack. Shroomish then made another Tackle attack as it made contact.

"Donphan, you okay?" asked Applejack as her elephant skidded in front of her.

"Donphan!" said the elephant as it shook itself and remained standing.

Huh? That little thing is tough.

Applejack was amazed that Shroomish wasn't willing to back down from a more powerful foe. If anything, it seemed fired up and determined to take down an opponent who was tougher and stronger than it. The country gal chuckled as she put her head down with her hat covering her eyes.

"You good, Aj?" asked Sky.

"Better, sugarcube. Now I get it. In fact, can I ask you something? Mind if I catch this little guy, " said Applejack, lifting her head with a confident smile and holding her arm out with a Pokeball.

"All yours, cowgirl!" smiled Sky as he could see that Applejack finally understood.

"Shroom!" shouted Shroomish.

"Wanna tussle? Fine by me! Donphan, use Hidden Power!" ordered Applejack.

"Donphan!" shouted the elephant as small orbs of power circled around the Pokémon. They were then shot out toward the mushroom.

Shroomish managed to leap out of all the attacks. It hopped onto a tree branch and fired off several Seed Bombs.

"Donphan, Rollout!" said Aj.

Her Pokémon curled up and began to use its rolling speed to avoid the attacks. The elephant was heading towards the tree as it collided with the base. The whole thing began to shake as Shroomish felt it. The tree buckled as the mushroom tumbled from the top to the ground. Shroomish sat up as it had a few scuffs on its body from falling from such height. A shadow loomed over it as the mushroom looked up and saw Donphan standing over it with its foot about to come down. Shroomish began to move to escape.

"Don't let it get away!" shouted Applejack.

Donphan used its trunk to grab hold of Shroomish as the small mushroom was lifted off its feet. It tried to break free, but the strength of the elephant's trunk was too much as it restrained the Pokémon from escaping. He then looked at the elephant as it began to fire some Seed Bombs at close range as Donphan closed its eyes and took the attacks head-on.

"Hold on, Donphan! Fire Fang!" ordered Aj.

"Donphan!" shouted the elephant in determination. He opened its mouth as flames began to appear. It reeled its trunk close as the fire shot out and collided with Shroomish as it was super effective.

"Your Donphan knows Fire Fang?" said Sky, as he didn't expect that type of move from the Ground-type Pokémon.

The fire was still going as it hit the ground in front of Donphan. It soon died down as there was Shroomish, who had swirls for eyes as it spoke defeat.

"Now's mah chance!" shouted Applejack as she pulled out one of her spare Pokeballs and tossed it.

The ball flew toward Shroomish as it bounced off its head. It opened as a red light appeared and sucked in the Pokémon. The top closed as the ball fell to the floor. It wiggled a bit as the light in the center flashed. It soon died down as it stopped flashing and made a sound signaling it worked.

"Yeehaw!" shouted Applejack in excitement.

The girl then approached the ball as she picked it up. She then turned to Donphan as she began to rub its head.

"Donphan," said the Pokémon as he enjoyed the affection from its trainer.

"Good job, boy. Take a rest. You earned it." said Applejack as she pulled out Donphan's Pokeball and recalled him.

"Nice work, cowgirl. You caught your first Pokémon," said Sky as he offered Aj his praise.

"Thanks, sugarcube," said Applejack as she raised her hand and slapped it against his

"Well, it's getting rather late. The good news is that we're more than halfway through the woods. So it won't be much longer than we have to walk."

"Then let's set up camp," responded Aj.

It was now nighttime as the moon was high up. The stars above gave some visible light to the woods as both Sky and Applejack were preparing for dinner. Sky had made a small fire as he had a pot cooking their stew. Aj was with her Pokémon and Turtwig as she was getting them fed. She let out Shroomish as the mushroom Pokémon saw the girl. Aj smiled and waved as the Pokémon now had a change in behavior at its new owner. The battle with the girl made the small creature more excited about wanting to travel with her. Applejack pulled out her Pokedex as she scanned her new Pokémon to see what its moves were.

"Stun Spore, Seed Bomb, Leech Seed and Tackle," Aj said as she listed off the moves her new Pokémon could use as of now. "Tough little thing, you are."

"Shroom," said Shroomish.

"Well, here you go," said Applejack as she presented a bowl of Pokémon food to her new partner.

Shroomish began to munch down on it, as were Turtwig and Donphan, who were next to it, chowing down their respective plates. The girl made her way as she sat on a stump and took off her hat. She saw dust on her blonde hair as she began picking at it.

"Gotta say, not bad for your first encounter," said Sky as he approached the girl with two bowls in his hands.

"Heh, you really tryin' to get me to blush, sugar," said Applejack as she wiped her forehead.

"Hey, I'm giving you some praise. Compared to when you battle against me, you've improved.

"Well, remember, I didn't use Donphan against you in our first battle. If I did, I would've beaten you.," said Applejack with a smug smile.

"Now I know that's bullshit," chuckled Sky as Aj did the same.

He offered the girl the bowl in his left hand as Applejack accepted it. The pair sat on stumps as they began chowing down their dinner. After a while of sitting in silence, Aj began to speak up.

"So, Sky? Back to what I was goin' to say before I caught Shroomish. You said yer mother gave yer father that necklace."

"Yeah, traveling together made them closer. Soon it developed into something more, and my mom gave my dad a gift to show how much she loved him. So a few years later, they married and had me when the time was right for both. Growing up, I was always around Pokémon because of their jobs. So you can believe I was more than excited when it would be my turn to go on a journey like theirs. Though, I wish they were able to see me off."

"Why couldn't they?" asked Applejack.

"Well, for the past 2 years, I've been living with my grandma. They're still around; they're just doing some business for their occupations. It was something that they couldn't bring me along, but it ain't bad. I mean, I got to spend some more time with my grandma. My mom always said, "Sometimes not knowing is a good thing."

"Yer mom's a smart woman. And I have no doubt that yer folks would be proud knowin' you're on yer journey. I know I am." said Applejack as her face hinted at red.

"Thanks, Aj. I'm glad to have you join me on this journey."

"Mah pleasure, sugarcube," said the girl.

The teens continued to eat their dinner well into the night. Soon it was time for bed as Sky pulled out the spare tent he purchased and tossed it over to the farm girl. Within a few minutes, both sleeping tents were set up as the teens got in and said good night to one another.

A few hours passed based on the position of the moon. A few cricket sounds could be heard as the winds blew through the woods. Applejack was fast asleep as the girl mumbled in her sleep. It was peaceful as a sound was heard.

THUD

"Huh?"

Applejack slowly opened her eyes. The sound caused the farm girl to awake as she was rubbing her eyes. She lifted her head to scan her tent. Her gaze shifted, seeing if there was anything there, but nothing. The girl then went back to sleep, trying to ignore being woken so early. It worked for a bit until another sound was heard.

THUD

"Who's there?!" stated Applejack as she sat up. The girl was now fully awake as she once again scanned her tent. But as before, there was nothing.

Aj laid down and pulled the covers over but kept her eyes open. Just as she expected, there was another thud heard. The farm girl sat up and put her cowboy hat on. She began to approach her tent's entrance as she grabbed the zipper. The girl unzipped her entrance of hers and peaked her head out. She looked at Sky's tent to see if anything was there, but there wasn't.

While the far girl didn't see it, a pair of eyes were shown. They belonged to something as the darkness covered its body. They blinked before disappearing. Applejack, in her PJs, was walking to Sky's tent to check on the boy. Before she could, a shadowy figure passed across the screen; the girl missed it at the last second. It scared the farm girl as she turned and tensed up. While scanning the area in front of her, a hand was shown reaching toward her.

"Who's there?!" demanded Aj.

The hand grabbed hold of Applejack's hand as the girl was dragged into the tent behind her. Applejack was caught off guard as she felt like she was being attacked. She kicked and was shouting before a hand came over her hand as an arm held her. The girl looked at the hand and followed it as it was none other than Sky.

"Sky, what are you doing?!" [muffled voice].

"Shh!" whispered the boy to the girl as he put his finger to his lips.

"Huh?" [muffled voice].

"Shh!" said the boy as he tried to tell his companion to be quiet.

He removed his hand from her mouth and unwrapped his arm around her as Applejack stared at him. Sky then pointed at the tent as the sounds were heard. The zipper to the boy's tent was shown as he peaked his head out with Applejack's head on top of his.

The pair were scanning the campsite as they could tell the sounds were coming from there. They saw nothing until a shadow appeared. The shadow was shown near the cooking pot the teens used to make their stew. The figure was peaking its head in and began digging around. While they couldn't determine the shadow, they could make out the shape of it. In fact, it looked similar to that of a Pokémon.

At that moment, Sky remembered what the man from the general store had told him. How people had reported stuff getting swiped and how the shadow made it reveal to be a Pokémon that was causing these thefts. Seeing how this may be their chance to see who was causing all the trouble, Sky slowly emerged from his tent.

"Sky?!" whispered Applejack to her friend.

The boy eyed the shadow as he attempted to sneak up on it. Aj saw her friend lurking about as she was concerned if things went south. Sky was a few meters away from the shadow and was about to catch it when his foot stepped on a small twig.

SNAP

That snap caused the shadow to turn its head toward Sky. The boy had a fake smile as the shadow didn't like it. It then had its beady eyes glow.

"Look away!" shouted Applejack.

Sky quickly turned his head while putting his hands up to cover his face. That slight distraction was all the shadow needed as it unfurled its wings and took off. They were shown quickly zipping as it managed to swipe the necklace that Sky was wearing.

"Hey, that's mine!" shouted the boy to the shadow as it wa flying away with his parent's necklace in hand.

Sky immediately turned to Aj's tent and grabbed his Pokeball and Pokedex. He then began to run after the shadow as he put them in his pockets.

"Sky!" shouted Aj.

The shadow was shown flying as it turned its head back. Sky ran behind it as the boy was determined to get his belongings back.

"Wait up!" shouted Applejack, now having changed into her regular clothes, as she ran while trying to lace up her boots and tighten her vest.

The shadow kept on flying as Sky picked up the pace. For the boy was more determined than ever to catch the thief as it had something that belonged to his parents. After hopping over some logs and doing some parkour to maneuver some rocks, the boy kept pursuing. He soon saw where the shadow was heading as there was a tree hole in the distance.

"Oh no, you don't! Turtwig, use Razor Leaf!" shouted Sky as he pulled out the Pokeball and tossed it.

"Twig!" shouted Turtwig as he came out.

He immediately listened to Sky's command as he began to flick the stem on his head as rows of sharp, curved leaves flew. They managed to cut off the shadow from entering the hole as they stopped midflight. They turned as Turtwig kept on the assault of Razor Leaf. The shadow began to move about, trying its best not to get hit as the leaves passed it and pierced through the thick leaves above, leaving holes that allowed the moonlight to enter.

Applejack had finally caught up with Sky as the girl panted a bit. She wasn't expecting a high chase quickly as she bent over and breathed heavily. Once she got her breath, she saw the scene before them. Standing there was Turtwig and Sky, as opposing them was the shadow. The shadow had perched itself on a nearby branch as it looked at the pair. However, the moonlight from one of the holes made by Turtwig shined down on the darkness as it allowed the girl to truly see what it was.

The figure or Pokémon was an owl of sorts. It had dark brown, upside-down triangles on its body. Its wings and wedge-shaped tail were dark browns. It had two cream-colored horns that looked like eyebrows.

"What Pokémon is that?" wondered Aj as she pulled out her Pokedex.

"Noctowl, the Owl Pokémon, and the evolved form of Hoothoot. Noctowl can see through even the darkest night, so hiding in the shadows is not an option for an opponent trying to escape. A Noctowl that has swiveled its head upside down is unhappy."

"Hey! You got something of mine! Hand it over!" shouted Sky.

Noctowl simply said a sound as it showed that it wasn't obeying the boy's demand.

"Guessin' he's the one that been stealin' stuff?" said Aj.

"Alright, I've had enough. If you don't give me back my necklace, I'll have to take it from you. Let's battle!" declared Sky.

"Twig!" said Turtwig as he stepped forward, ready to fight.

"Sky, are you crazy? I don't know much about Pokémon, but I know that a Grass-type is at a disadvantage against a Flying-type!" said Applejack.

"I don't care, Aj. I'm not backing down. And I win and get back my necklace; I'm gonna catch that Noctowl!" declared Sky.

Noctowl put the necklace in its talons on the branch before flapping its wings. It took and soon surrounded itself in an aura as it was heading toward the small greenish Pokémon.

"Turtwig, dodge it!" shouted Sky as his partner did just that.

The small creature dodged perfectly out of the way as Noctowl missed but soared back into the air.

"That was Sky Attack," said Sky.

Noctowl soared into the sky as it raised its wings and an orb of wind appeared. It then shot the attack down and towards Turtwig.

"Turtwig, look out!" shouted the boy.

"Twig?" said the small thing.

He was too late as the orb of wind hit him in the back from the corner of his eye. He felt the attack as he was thrown to the ground.

"And that was Air Slash. Turtwig, you good?" asked Sky to his Pokémon.

"I told you, sugar. A Grass-type like Turtwig is weak against a Flying-type," said Applejack as she didn't like the matchup. "Look, Sky. I get you to want to fight, but you must realize that this is a battle that Turtwig can't win. Let me step in. I'll defeat Noctowl and even let you catch it afterward."

"Sorry, Applejack. But that's not how it works. I gotta win this with Turtwig, no matter what. This is something you gotta know, Applejack. Pokémon battles aren't always determined by which type is superior. It's all about who can develop a better strategy to win. Plus, I don't plan on losing this fight. And neither is Turtwig.

"Twig!" said the Pokémon.

Turtwig turned to address his trainer as he didn't see Noctowl's next move. The owl appeared before the Pokémon as its eyes began to glow. The stare affected Turtwig as the Pokémon was now caught in a trance. He was now moving about as his mind was twirling.

"Turtwig, use Razor Leaf!" ordered Sky.

Turtwig heard Sky's call, but its head was still spinning. The small Pokémon executed its attack as it saw where Noctowl was in its mind. But in reality, where it aimed its attack was way off the mark as Noctowl stood there with a snicker. Soon Turtwig collapsed to the floor as he was snoring.

"Why is Turtwig sleeping?" asked Applejack.

"Cause Noctowl used Hypnosis. It causes a Pokémon to go to sleep," replied Sky.

"For how long?"

"I don't know," answered the boy to the girl.

All Sky could do was watch; Turtwig lay on the ground, sleeping without a care. Noctowl was on a branch above as it smiled. It then continued its assault as it flew into the air and made another orb of wind appear. Noctowl unleashed its Air Slash attack as the sphere made its way to Turtwig, as a dust explosion occurred. Turtwig was still napping in place as the attack damaged the grass Pokémon due to a few scuffs shown.

"Turtwig, you gotta wake up!" shouted Sky.

Noctowl kept on the assault as it now transitioned to its Sky Attack. Its body glowed in an aura as it dived toward the sleeping Pokémon as another cloud explosion occurred. This one sent Turtwig flying through the air as he fell to the ground, still fast asleep.

"Turtwig! Come on! Wake up!" yelled Sky as he was trying his best to get his partner to snap out of the confusion.

Applejack was watching all of this as it was hard to watch. The girl knew Sky wanted to do this fight himself, but she could see the bigger picture. If Sky didn't back out or let her step in to fight the owl, he would risk Turtwig suffering a possible injury.

Sky, I get that you don't want to back down. I get it. It's admirable. But for the sake of Turtwig's health. Just let it go. Realize this is a fight you can't win. I won't think any less of you.

Turtwig, please, wake up!

Applejack was starting to march forward. Noctowl was looking to end the battle as it charged up its Sky Attack once more. The bird was heading toward Turtwig as he was still napping. Aj was about to put her hand on Sky's shoulder when...

"TURTWIG!" shouted Sky as loud as he could.

"Twig!" said the small green Pokémon as its eyes shot open.

He saw Noctowl coming at him as he quickly used the nearby tree he was lying at. He ran it up and managed to flip over Noctowl and easily avoid the attack. Noctowl was surprised as it was about to crash into a tree before it stopped itself and changed direction. Turtwig landed as he was more fired up than ever.

"I knew you wouldn't let me down, bud," Sky said with a smile.

I don't believe it.

Applejack was taken aback by what she witnessed. Turtwig was hit with a Hypnosis attack that caused him to go to sleep. And it seemed like he was defenseless as Noctowl kept pummeling the small Pokémon with attacks. And just when it seemed like the fight was about to end, Sky's voice reached the Pokémon's heart as he snapped out of his state and dodged the attack.

"Turtwig, Razor Leaf!" shouted Sky.

Turtwig fired its attack as the row of leaves were heading to Noctowl, who had managed to turn around from colliding into a tree. The owl bird used its Extrasensory attack to take control of the leaves as he got them to stop spinning and fall to the ground.

"Turtwig, use Tackle!" commanded Sky.

The small Pokémon began to run as it picked up speed. Noctowl saw this and flashed its eyes again as it used Hypnosis.

"Sky!" shouted Applejack.

"Turtwig, shut your eyes!" ordered Sky as he got his Pokémon to stop running.

Noctowl began to fly around as it still kept on using Hypnosis. The owl knew full well that if Turtwig couldn't see, it couldn't attack. Furthermore, it couldn't see the Sky Attack it was about to launch as its body began slowly glowing.

As long as Noctowl used Hypnosis, I can't have Turtwig attack less he looks directly at it. But how do I fight without seeing? Seeing?

At that moment, Sky had an idea.

"Turtwig, don't move," said the boy.

"What?!" shouted Applejack.

"Twig," said Turtwig as he did what Sky asked as he stood in place with his eyes still closed.

Noctowl appeared above the Pokémon as it was coming at it.

"Sky, what are you doing?!"

"That's it, bud. Just keep staying still and listen," muttered Sky.

Turtwig was doing what Sky was saying. The small Pokémon using its ears to listen in on its surroundings. The wind blew as the trees swayed as well as the cricket noises. Yet, despite all that, Turtwig was concentrating on its target and listening for one particular sound. And then he heard it, the flapping of wings.

"Now!" shouted Sky.

Turtwig heard the fluttering of Noctowl's wings as he knew where it was. He ran up the tree and jumped but this time spun to calculate when the correct position of when Noctowl would be below it. Sure enough, Turtwig was directly above Noctowl's back when it swooped down as he had a clear shot.

"Razor Leaf!" shouted Sky.

"Twig!" exclaimed Turtwig as he let loose a barrage of Razor Leaf.

It hit Noctowl directly in the back as the owl Pokémon felt it. It crashed into the ground as the collision from the impact did some damage.

"Now follow it up with Tackle!" commanded Sky.

Noctowl was sitting up as it shook his head. He looked up, and Turtwig used its head to spear the bird right in the chest as he was flung into a tree and collided back first.

"Use Bite to grab it!" said Sky.

Turtwig ran with its mouth opened as it leaped into the air. The small Pokémon managed to use its Bite attack to latch onto one of Noctowl's wings.

"Swing Time!" called out Sky.

Turtwig then landed on its back feet as it held Noctowl's wing in his mouth. The small Pokémon began moving in a circle as it picked up speed. The momentum started to pile on faster and faster; around and around it went. Noctowl was starting to feel the effects as it was letting out a cry. Once it had picked up enough speed and power, Turtwig let go as he flung the bird in a direction. Noctowl cried as he was sent upwards and collided with the tree branch that Sky's necklace was. Both the bird and item fell to the floor.

"Pokeball, go!" shouted Sky as he pulled out an empty ball and threw it.

The ball sailed through the air as it bounced off Noctowl's head and opened up. A red light surrounded it as it was sucked in and closed. The ball fell to the ground, rocking back and forth with the center flashing. Sky and Applejack were watching, waiting to see what would happen. Soon the rocking stopped as the flashing stopped that, produced a sound.

"Alright!" shouted Sky as he did a fist pump. The boy walked over to pick up his Pokeball as he held that smile. "I just caught a Noctowl!"

"Turtwig!"

"And it's all thanks to you, bud," said Sky to his partner Pokémon.

He bent down as Turtwig jumped into his arms as gave his buddy a hug. Soon Turtwig bit the top of Sky's head.

"Ow, what the hell?!" shouted the boy as he experienced pain from having his own Pokémon bite him.

"Twig," smiled Turtwig as he nibbled on his trainer's head.

From afar, Applejack watched the pair as she couldn't help but smile.

Sky really is somethin'. He just impressed me once again. Despite being at a disadvantage, he never once lost faith. Even when the odds were against him, he kept on trying. Turtwig as well; that little thing has just as much heart as Sky.

The farm girl was walking toward her companion as Sky finally got Turtwig off his head. He was looking at his new Pokémon when he saw Applejack approaching them.

"Aj, did you see that? I got a brand new Pokémon to add to my team."

"You sure did, sugar. Congrats," said the farm girl as she raised her hand up.

Now it was Sky's turn to return the gesture as he raised his hand and slapped it against the girl's for a high five.

After that eventful night, Sky and Applejack returned to their camp. The boy got back his necklace and put it back on. He looked at it as he imagined what his parents would say after winning and gaining a brand new Pokémon. The pair returned to camp, enjoying a good night's rest.

The morning came as both had breakfast with their Pokémon before heading off. Turtwig communicated with Noctowl about Sky as he promised he would enjoy being a part of this journey. The owl simply turned its head to the side as it spoke. Using its massive intelligence, the bird could see that this would be a fun adventure he was glad to be a part of.

"All set, Aj," asked Sky as he slung his backpack on and recalled his Pokémon.

"Eeyup," answered the girl doing her best impression of her big brother. She recalled her Pokémon as she put on her backpack.

The pair began to trek forward as they had the last leg to cover before they were out of the woods and in Canterlot City. The pair traveled for a bit as they pressed forward. Just as they were walking, they were soon stopped by something in their way. A boot was shown as it stomped on the dirt in front of the pair.

"Well, well," said the person to whom the boot belonged.

Author's Note: It seems Applejack is also going to be entering the League. And it looks like both Trainers have added some new recruits to their teams. Not to mention, a mysterious person has stopped the pair in their tracks. Who do you think it is?

So each time a Pokémon is caught by someone, I will add and update the list. So for example: Sky's Team: Turtwig and Noctowl. Applejack's Team: Donphan and Shroomish. That way, everybody is up to date on who has what.