Hello Fanfiction Readers! How is it going today? After the previous excitement in Castelia City and the Desert Resort, its time for Ash's third gym battle! I wonder what'll happen. Also I would like a moment to say something. -clears throat- I want to apologize. Right now you might be wondering what I have to apologize for, well, I'll explain shortly. I'm apologizing for what happened in the last chapter. I didn't know it at the time, but after reading it, examining it, and seeing a comment someone left me, I have to agree. What I wrote after the Pokémon of Teams Rocket and Plasma fainted was sexist. I assure you that I had no attention of that. But now, I can't help but cover my face with my palm.
The males were engaging in good, old fashioned fisticuffs while the females pulled each others hair and called them names. I will now take a moment to personally say what might be on some of your minds. -Clears throat- What in Tartarus's name is wrong with you? Along with the other obscenities that might come from your mouths. I mean, seriously? I feel uncomfortable with that. Now I feel like giving myself a well-deserved slap. Maybe even a good knee in the stomach or something. So, yeah, I am sorry for that. I guess the only thing left for me to say is that I sincerely apologize. Man, I've been saying the word apologize a lot in these two paragraphs haven't I? I mean, saying in three times is fine, but more than that is just plain ridiculous.
One last thing though, the place in question where it was written has been edited.
Anyway, on with the story.
Disclaimer: The Disclaimer? I think it was stolen.
Pokémon Black and White
Chapter Twenty-Two
Normal Point of View
As sunlight filtered into their room at the Pokémon Center, it went directing into the closed eyes of a certain raven-haired Pokémon Trainer.
"Five more minutes." Ash mumbled, turning over.
However, even in his sleepy state he heard something that sounded suspiciously like electricity crackling. Cracking an eye open, he saw Pikachu in front of him. "What's wrong buddy?"
"Pika Pika Pikapi." ("Look around Ash.")
Opening his other eye, he sat up as he looked blearily around the room. He was then startled when he realized that it was empty save for him and Pikachu.
"Pikachu, where is everyone?" Ash asked.
"Pika Pikachu Pika." ("They already went downstairs.")
And with that, Ash jolted out of bed before rushing to put his clothes on.
"And no one bothered to wake me up?" Ash asked as he was putting his pants on.
Pikachu then seemed to shrug. "Pikachu Pikapi, Pika Pika Pikachu." ("They tried Ash, you're just a heavy sleeper.")
"Well we better be going!" Ash exclaimed as Pikachu jumped onto his shoulder.
As he exited the door and closed it behind him, realization dawned on him as he covered his face with his palm.
"Pika Pikachu Pikapi?" ("What is it Ash?")
Grinning and scratching the back of his neck sheepishly, Ash responded, "Today's my Gym Battle with Burgh."
He then sweat-dropped. "How could I have forgotten that?"
Pikachu seemed to have an impish grin on his face. "Pikachu Pika Pika Pika Pikachupi?" ("Maybe it has something to do with Misty?")
At that, Ash turned a shade of crimson. "What do you mean by that?"
Pikachu then arched an eyebrow. "Pikachu Pika Pikachu Pikapi." ("I think you know what I mean Ash.")
The color on Ash's cheeks then deepened, although, it was more from embarrassment than his feelings for a certain Water-type Pokémon Trainer. "Were you spying on us last night?"
Pikachu simply nodded his head.
Ash sighed.
XXXXXXX
"You what?" Daisy exclaimed excitedly.
Misty held up her hands as she was talking to her three sisters over the videophone. "Calm down Daisy, Lily, Violet. It isn't much of a big deal."
"It isn't a big deal?" Lily repeated with a hint of incredulity.
"Looks like you're all grown up little sis." Violet said with a nod of approval.
"You just had you're first kiss!" Daisy interjected. "Of course it's a big deal!"
She then cupped her face and closed her eyes as she had a dreamy expression on her face. "I remember my first kiss with Tracey well."
"We can attest to that." Lily commented on the behalf of her and Violet.
"She was walking on air." Violet added. "Even happier than usual."
"But enough about that." Daisy said hastily, waving her hand dismissive. "How was your first kiss with Ash?"
"It was nice." Misty said as she was smiling. "Tender and nervous, but nice."
This was met with three exclamations of Aww! from the Sensational Sisters.
"As I've said, it's not a big deal!" Misty insisted.
Putting a hand over her heart, Violet spoke, "Of course it's a big deal!"
"Love is very important." Lily added.
Misty sighed. "What am I going to do with you three?" She then added with a small smile. "Okay, I guess it is a bit of a big deal."
XXXXXXX
"Oh Ash!" Delia Ketchum exclaimed. "I always knew you two were bound to happen eventually."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that it was obvious there was a connection between you two." Mrs. Ketchum explained. "And a conversation I had with Misty once only served to further my expectations of it."
"A connection, huh?" Ash repeated. "I guess you're right."
"Of course I am!" Mrs. Ketchum said with a wink. "A mother is sometimes keenly attuned to this sort of thing."
She then tapped her chin thoughtfully. "Then again, Misty's feelings were exactly subtle."
"Well, they went over my head." Ash said self-deprecatingly.
"My little boy's growing up." Mrs. Ketchum said, wiping away a tear of pride that sprang from her left eye.
"Mom..." Ash said, a bit flustered. He then noticed how his mother's expression turned serious. As her eyes bored into him, he couldn't help but feel a little unnerved at the unflinching gaze.
"Something wrong Mom?" Ash inquired. Mimey was holding a broom in the background, looking quizzically at the mother and son.
"Oh, nothing's wrong sweetie," Mrs. Ketchum answered. "It's just, I think we should talk about something."
Ash looked puzzled. "And what would that be?"
A few minutes later, a loud voice filled the air. "MOM!"
The Pokémon Trainer's face was the color of scarlet as he was incredibly flustered. And mortified. "Mom! You should know me better than that!"
"Oh I know," Mrs. Ketchum said. "But a mother can never be too careful."
"And don't you know that Misty would pummel me with her mallet if she felt the least bit uncomfortable?" Ash reasoned. "She can take care of herself."
"You know I can!" Came a familiar female voice.
"Mist!" Ash exclaimed.
Misty tilted her head to the side. "Ash? Why do you seem so flustered?"
Mrs. Ketchum smiled sweetly at the two of them. "Oh I was just having a little chat with Ash. That's all."
"A little chat?" Ash the put his hands on either side of his head. "I think that was anything but."
Looking between the two of them and seeing a mischievous glint in Mrs. Ketchum's eyes and the state her son was in, realization dawned on her. "Oh, I see."
She then tugged on Ash's arm. "Well, it was nice seeing you Mrs. Ketchum."
"It was good seeing you too Misty." Mrs. Ketchum said. She then winked. "Be sure to keep an eye on Ash for me."
"MOM!" Ash repeated.
Misty chuckled. "Don't worry Mrs. Ketchum, I'll be sure to keep an eye out for him."
Mrs. Ketchum then hung up the phone, turning around to seeing Mimey looking at her. "What?" She inquired innocently. "Ash may be good at heart, but he still needs to hear it."
"Mime Mr. Mine Mime." ("I think you scarred him.")
"Oh, I'm sure he'll be fine." Mrs. Ketchum waved her hand dismissively. "Nothing keeps him down for long."
Mimey gave one last look at her before going to do some sweeping.
Castelia City Gym
"So cool." Ash commented as they were walking through the Castelia Gym. After some breakfast and a reassuring pat on the back from Misty, he had long since recovered from the talk.
"Sure is!" Iris said.
"Speak for yourself." Misty said, her hand in Ash's. "I on the other hand am a bit uncomfortable here."
"Relax Mist." Ash said comfortingly. "It isn't like there are a bunch of bloodthirsty Bug-types here ready to attack."
"I know that." Misty said, blushing a little at the use of the -somewhat anyway- nickname. "Thanks for the image though of a bunch of bloodthirsty Bug-types."
"Sorry Mist." Ash said with a sweat-drop, gripping her hand a bit tighter for reassurance.
"It feels like an enormous greenhouse in here!" Cilan interjected.
They then walked further into the gym and saw Burgh feeding a Sewaddle up in a tree.
"Here you go!" Burgh said. "Eat as much as you like."
"Hey, Burgh!" Ash shouted after they saw him.
"Huh?" Burgh said before turning his attention to the teens. "You made it!"
"Welcome to the Castelia Gym!" Burgh said after jumping out of the tree.
"Thanks!" Ash said, pumping the hand that wasn't holding Misty's in front of him with determination. "I'm here for our gym battle!"
"Excellent!" Burgh said before noticing that the two teens were holding hands. "Ah, young love. It resonates deeply with my pure heart!"
Ash scratched the back of his neck while Misty just blushed a faint red.
"I must thank you all for what you did in helping Castelia City." Burgh continued. "If not for you, I shudder to think what would've happened had you not intervened."
"Aw, it was nothing." Ash said bashfully, scratching the back of his neck.
XXXXXXX
"I've never seen so many trees indoors before." Cilan commented. "It's amazing!"
"We transplanted trees from the Pinwheel Forest in here, for the Bug-types' benefit, of course!" Burgh said.
Ash, upon picking up on Misty's reaction to Bug-types, gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. Misty gave Ash a grateful smile in return.
"Wow!" Ash commented at what Burgh had said.
"I will admit," Misty said. "It is impressive."
"There's nothing better than lots of greenery for a Bug-type Pokémon lover!" Burgh continued. "And it's this type of natural and beautiful environment that gives me inspiration."
"That sounds like Burgh!" Cilan said.
"So, Ash, how are you feeling?" Burgh inquired.
"I feel great!" Ash answered. "Great enough to win my third badge!"
"Excellent." Burgh said. "I can't wait to see what kind of battle you'll wage."
Burgh then snapped his fingers. After which, a battlefield started to appear in the area next to them.
"Check it out!" Ash exclaimed when the battlefield was done appearing.
"Good luck Ash." Misty whispered in his ear before planting a quick kiss on his cheek, disentangling her hand before going to join Iris and Cilan on the sidelines. In her wake, she left a blushing Pokémon Trainer.
XXXXXXX
"The Castelia Gym Battle between Ash and Burgh is about to begin!" The male Judge announced. "Three Pokémon per side! The gym battle will be completed when all of the Pokémon on one side are unable to continue!"
"It's a gym leader's duty to show you my choice of Pokémon first." Burgh said. "And that choice is...Dwebble! Let's go!"
"Look at the rock on Dwebble's back!" Iris commented after the Rock Inn Pokémon appeared. "It's different than your Dwebble's, Cilan."
"You're right!" Cilan said.
"I wonder what type of Pokémon Ash is going to choose to go against a Bug- and Rock-type." Iris said.
"Most likely he'll go for a Pokémon that has an advantage." Misty said, before contemplating it. "Or doesn't have an advantage. Or even one at a disadvantage. His battling can be quite impulsive and unpredictable sometimes."
Okay, so Dwebble's a Bug- and Rock-type which means that Rock-, Steel-, and Water-type attacks will be effective. Ash thought.
"Oshawott, I choose you!" Ash shouted.
"Wow, that's a pretty smart move for Ash!" Iris commented.
"It seems he is going for a Pokémon with an advantage." Misty added.
"Now we wait and see how it goes." Cilan said.
Attempting to win by type advantages hmm? Burgh thought to himself. We'll just see about that.
"Begin!" The Judge shouted.
"Oshawott, Water Gun, now!"
Oshawott then reared back a little before firing a powerful spray of water.
"Dwebble, dodge it!"
Listening to Burgh's order, Dwebble effortlessly went to the side, dodging the Water-type move completely.
"Water Gun, once more!" Ash shouted.
Oshawott then reared back to prepare another Water Gun attack. Burgh however, was prepared for that.
"Dwebble, Dig!"
The Rock Inn Pokémon then began to dig while the Water Gun hit the ground harmlessly.
"Oshawott, try to sense Dwebble and then use Razor Shell!"
Oshawott then closed its eyes and try to listen for Dwebble. When he heard very faint, almost inaudible movements, Oshawott readied his Razor Shell attack.
Jumping up out of the ground, Dwebble collided directly with Oshawott but not before taking the super-effective damage from the Water-type move.
The two Pokémon then landed in front of their trainers, panting lightly.
"X-Scissor!" Burgh shouted.
Dwebble then crossed its little arms as they glowed light blue and purple at the edges in an "X" as it started to attack with X-Scissor.
"Dodge it!" Ash shouted.
The command however, came too late as Oshawott took the full brunt of the attack.
"That's fast!" Ash commented.
"Dwebble's something!" Iris said. "So quick on its feet!"
Cilan nodded in response.
"The rock that my Dwebble carries on its back is special." Burgh explained. "It weighs much less than mose Dwebbles."
"That's why it moves so fast, with such grace!" Burgh continued.
"Oshawott, Water Gun!" Ash ordered.
"Protect!" Burgh said.
As Oshawott reared back to launch the Water Gun attack, Dwebble crouched down a little and was encased in a light green shield.
"X-Scissor!" Burgh ordered.
"Oshawott, use Razor Shell!" Ash commanded.
Dwebble then crossed its arms as the light blue and purple "X" of X-Scissor appeared. Oshawott pulled its scalchop as a line of blue elongated from it.
The two attacks met directly and sent the Rock Inn Pokémon and the Sea Otter Pokémon reeling in front of their trainers.
"Oshawott, that was great!" Ash said. "Now to finish with one hit! Use Razor Shell one more time!"
"Use Protect!" Burgh said.
Oshawott then took his scalchop as the line of blue elongated off it as it went to the Rock Inn Pokémon. Dwebble was prepared though as it crouched down again and was encased in a shield of light green. Although Oshawott was persistent in his assault, he was eventually rebuffed.
"Dwebble, Rock Wrecker!" Burgh ordered.
Dwebble then put its little claws in front of itself as a rock with a red outline appeared in front of it and grew to the size of a boulder. It then fired the rock and it collided directly with Oshawott. The result being a plume of black smoke. As the smoke cleared, Oshawott struggled to stand but he had received too much damage and promptly fainted.
Although Oshawott fainted, Dwebble was panting a little. It wasn't noticeable unless you got close though.
"Oshawott is unable to battle!" The Judge announced. "Dwebble wins!"
"Return!" Ash said. "You deserve a good rest."
"A close-range Rock Wrecker." Cilan commented. "Effective!"
"That Dwebble must be something else indeed." Misty added.
"Do you think he purposely lured Oshawott in?" Iris asked.
"Sure." Cilan said. "He was just waiting for Oshawott to get close!"
"Hmm." Iris said.
"That's Burgh's style." Cilan said.
"So, tell me, what's your next Pokémon, Ash?" Burgh inquired.
"It's gotta be a Pokémon that can take on Dwebble." Iris said. "Which one of Ash's will it be?"
"Either Tepig with his Fire-type moves could be a good choice, or Pikachu with his Iron Tail." Cilan said.
"My guess?" Misty said. "Is that he'll use another Pokémon entirely."
"'Kay! Bug-type battle!" Ash said. "Sewaddle, I choose you!"
After the Sewing Pokémon emerged, Iris and Cilan were left surprised. Misty however, knew something like this would be coming.
"Ash must've retrieved Sewaddle before we came to the Castelia Gym." Cilan said.
"Isn't that a bit too bold?" Iris wondered.
"Ah, the familiar scent of an Ash-style choice." Cilan commented.
"What would be bold is to send Snivy in to battle Dwebble or any of Burgh's other Bug-types." Misty said.
"Ah, the Sewaddle from before." Burgh said.
"Yup!" Ash said.
"My Leavanny made its new clothes!" Burgh commented.
And saved Ash's and Sewaddle's life. Misty thought to herself.
"And I'm really grateful for what you did!" Ash said.
"They look very good on Sewaddle." Burgh noted. "I don't want to ruin such a lovely outfit."
This caused a small sweat-drop to appear on Misty's head.
"But this is a gym battle and that's number one." Burgh continued. "I remember Sewaddle is very strong-willed. This should be a lot of fun!"
"But isn't Ash at a disadvantage since Burgh's met Sewaddle before?" Iris asked.
"No, no!" Cilan said. "Burgh's never seen Sewaddle battle!"
"Begin!" The Judge shouted.
"Sewaddle, use Razor Leaf!"
Sewaddle's head leaf then glowed light green as it began to fire the barrage of leaves.
"Dwebble, use Protect!"
The leaves then bounced off of Dwebble's light green shield of Protect at an angle.
"X-Scissor, let's go!"
Dwebble then took its light blue glowing claws and raised them to attack.
"Use String Shot to dodge it!"
Sewaddle then complied by firing its string up at the ceiling of the gym. Sewaddle then jumped up with it as Dwebble came by with X-Scissor.
"Great stuff, Sewaddle!
"Sewaddle's doing great!" Iris commented.
"I must say that dodge was just beautiful." Burgh noted. "Just like a Bug-type. My heart belongs to them!"
"Bug Bite!" Ash shouted after Sewaddle came back to ground.
"Protect!"
Sewaddle then leapt in the air but before it could attack, Dwebble crouched down and activated its light green shield. This sent Sewaddle back.
"Dwebble, Rock Wrecker, go!"
Dwebble then started to form the rock between its claws.
"It's that close-range Rock Wrecker again!" Iris observed.
"Use String Shot to dodge!"
Sewaddle then complied again by shooting its string at a wall to the right of it. This caused the Sewing Pokémon to effortlessly dodge the attack.
"Razor Leaf, now!"
Sewaddle's head leaf then glowed green as it began to fire the attack.
"Protect!" Burgh said.
Dwebble then crouched down as it used its light green shield to deflect the attack.
"Dwebble's Protect is amazingly strong!" Cilan commented.
"And amazingly redundant." Misty added.
"'Kay, now what?" Ash pondered.
"Use Rock Wrecker!" Burgh shouted.
Dwebble then fired the huge rock once more.
"String Shot, let's wrap it up!"
Sewaddle then fired its string, enveloping the rock a bit and causing it to veer off course harmlessly.
"Now use X-Scissor!" Burgh said.
Dwebble's claws then glowed light blue as it prepared the attack.
"Tackle, go!" Ash said.
Sewaddle then collided directly with Dwebble, interrupting the attack.
"Now's Ash's chance!" Cilan said after the impact of Tackle sent Dwebble out of its shell.
"Razor Leaf, let's go!"
As Sewaddle's head leaf glowed, the barrage of leaves hit Dwebble directly.
"Hurry back to your rock!" Burgh shouted.
"I don't think so!" Ash said. "Use Tackle!"
Sewaddle then slammed straight into Dwebble. This sent the Rock Inn Pokémon reeling.
"Finish with Razor Leaf!" Ash said.
Sewaddle then lowered its head as the leaf on it glowed and started to shoot the crescent leaves of Razor Leaf. The leaves hit directly with Dwebble, resulting in a small explosion of black smoke. This left Dwebble unable to battle.
"Dwebble is unable to battle!" The Judge announced. "Sewaddle wins!"
"All right!" Ash exclaimed.
"Well, that was well done." Burgh commented. "Now, Dwebble, return!"
"We've got a one-and-one match!" Cilan said.
"And I know who will eventually prove to be the winner." Misty commented.
"Excellent!" Burgh said. "That Sewaddle of yours is impressive."
"Ha-ha." Ash said, scratching a finger against the bottom of his nose. "Wow, thanks a lot, Burgh!"
"Now for my next Pokémon." Burgh said. "Whirlipede, it's your turn!"
"Whirlipede?" Ash pondered before getting his Pokédex out.
"Whirlipede, the Curlipede Pokémon, and the evolved form of Venipede. Whirlipede can spin its hard-shelled body like a tire to smash into opponents." The Pokédex uttered.
"That Bug-type gives the creeps." Misty said, hugging Marill just a bit closer to herself as she shivered a little.
Iris and Cilan merely sweat-dropped at her reaction.
"Whirlipede, I trust your pure heart is burning with spirit!" Burgh said.
To emphasize this, Whirlipede jumped into the air above itself and spun a little.
"Wow, it sure looks tough!" Iris observed.
"Well, it is a Bug- and Poison-type..." Cilan said.
"So, what type would work well against it?" Iris asked.
"A Flying-type." Cilan replied. "A Fire-type Pokémon would be a good choice as well."
"Looks like this is shaping up to be a really tough battle regardless." Iris said.
"Sewaddle, stay in there!" Ash said. "Keep doing what you're doing, 'kay?"
"Sewaddle!" ("Okay!") The Sewing Pokémon said happily.
"Begin!" The Judge shouted, raising his arm in the air.
"Whirlipede, Poison Sting!"
Whirlipede then jumped up, spinning around while it fired the dots of poison.
"Use String Shot to dodge!"
Sewaddle then shot its string up at the ceiling, dodging the attack.
"Face Whirlipede and use String Shot!"
Sewaddle then let go of the string it was holding onto, stopped in mid-air, and fired its String Shot attack. The string encircled the Whirlipede.
"Spin, Whirlipede!" Burgh shouted. "Break that thread!"
Whirlipede did just that as it spun around.
"Sewaddle's String Shot won't work!" Ash commented.
"Steamroller, now!"
"Huh?"
Whirlipede then, while spinning, rammed into Sewaddle. This sent the Sewing Pokémon reeling.
"Sewaddle!" Ash shouted.
"That hit hard!" Iris commented.
"Ew!" ("Yeah!")
"Steamroller, once again!"
"Razor Leaf, go!"
As Whirlipede came in spinning again, Sewaddle lowered its head as the leaf on it glowed and shot forth the leaves. This would prove to be ineffective as Whirlipede came in, ramming into Sewaddle again.
"Sewaddle, you okay?" Ash asked as the Sewing Pokémon was thrown back on the ground in front of him.
"A powerful attack!" Burgh said. "Beautiful. My Whirlipede's pure heart is shining just as brightly as can be!"
"Now use Bug Bite!"
"Iron Defense!"
Sewaddle then jumped forth to attack with Bug Bite. Whirlipede glowed a light blue outline as was using Iron Defense. Whirlipede then took on the appearance of being made of iron, sending Sewaddle back.
"So Whirlipede can use Iron Defense." Cilan commented.
"Yeah." Iris said. "This battle's getting tougher!"
Ash has been in tougher battles though. Misty thought to herself.
"Whirlipede, Steamroller!"
Whirlipede then spun around as it charged forward to attack Sewaddle. This sent the Sewing Pokémon reeling.
"Sewaddle, no!"
"Let's finish this!" Burgh said. "Whirlipede, SolarBeam!"
Whirlipede's front horns then glowed yellow as it absorbed the energy from the sun. It then prepared a sphere of white energy between those horns before firing the attack. The yellow light of SolarBeam then hit Sewaddle.
"On no!" Ash exclaimed.
"Pika!" ("Uh oh!")
"Sewaddle, hang in there!" Ash shouted.
"Pika Pika!" ("You can do it!")
As the SolarBeam stopped, Sewaddle was then engulfed in a bright blue light.
"All right!" Ash said.
"Sewaddle is evolving!" Cilan observed.
"That's great!" Iris said, clasping her hands.
"Just the break needed." Misty said.
Sewaddle was then encircled by the yellow lights as its body began to change. The blue light then went off of Sewaddle when it evolved in sparkles.
"A...Swadloon?" Ash pondered.
"Indeed, a Swadloon!" Cilan exclaimed.
"Hmm." Ash said before getting his Pokédex out.
"Swadloon, the Leaf-Wrapped Pokémon and the evolved form of Sewaddle. Swadloon's body is covered in leaves, which protect it from the cold. In forests where Swadloon live, the trees and grass grow very well." The Pokédex uttered.
"That's awesome!" Ash exclaimed excited, jumping up with his exuberance.
"Pika Pika!" ("Yeah it is!")
"So Sewaddle evolved." Burgh noted. "Excellent! Swadloon is one of my favorite Pokémon!"
"Finding a Swadloon in the forest is wonderful!" Burgh continued. "It means one thing: that the trees that grow there are extremely healthy and strong!"
Burgh then took on a more serious tone from the previously excited one while still retaining it. "But this is a gym battle, and battle you I will!"
"He certainly is something." Misty commented with a sweat-drop.
"Ma rill." ("I agree.")
"Swadloon, String Shot!"
"Loon!" ("Right!")
Swadloon then unleashed three lines of webbing from its mouth at the Curlipede Pokémon. Whirlipede was then enveloped in more strings than before.
"Whirlipede, spin and break that thread!"
Whirlipede did just that as it spun around and broke the thread.
"Swadloon's String Shot's still not enough." Ash commented.
"It's time for a beautiful finish!" Burgh said. "Use Steamroller!"
Whirlipede then spun and charged forward to go through with the attack.
"Use String Shot to dodge!"
Swadloon then fired three strings of thread at the ceiling.
Whirlipede however, intercepted that as it leapt into the air and broke the threads.
Swadloon then fell to the ground.
Whirlpede's two spinning sides then gained a bright glowing outline. It then charged forward to end the battle.
"Let's show them your new power!" Ash exclaimed. "Use Energy Ball!"
Swadloon then prepared an orb of green, blue, and white to fire at its opponent. When it fired its Energy Ball at Whirlipede, it sent the Curlipede Pokémon flying.
"Whirlipede, no!"
"Swadloon, great job!"
"So Swadloon knows Energy Ball!" Iris commented.
"Now that Sewaddle's evolved, Swadloon's following a new recipe!" Cilan added.
"And it might just be enough to win the battle." Misty added.
"Wrap this up!" Ash shouted. "Use Tackle!"
Swadloon then charged threw the air a little to attack its opponent. Swadloon then slammed directly into Whirlipede, which sent it reeling. Whirlipede then collapsed to the ground, fainted. It quietly murmured its name once.
"Whirlipede is unable to battle!" The Judge announced. "Swadloon is the winner!"
"Whirlipede, return." Burgh said.
"All right, great job, Swadloon!" Ash exclaimed. "And that means...One more and we win!"
"Swadloon!" ("It would appear so!")
"I can't help but wonder which Pokémon will be Burgh's last." Cilan said.
"Most likely it will be his Leavanny." Misty said.
"You think?" Iris wondered.
Burgh then lifted a Poké Ball with an air dramatically. "Now for the guardian of the Castelia Gym!" Burgh then readied the Poké Ball. "Come out, Leavanny!"
"Leavanny!" Ash said as the Nurturing Pokémon emerged.
"Uh-oh. Looks like you were right Misty." Iris said. "I was afraid of this..."
"Begin!" The Judge shouted.
Team Rocket's Point of View
Down in the harbor, the Team Rocket Trio were talking with Matori, Giovanni's Secretary.
"So where is Giovanni?" Jessie asked.
"He's in an important meeting and unavailable at the moment." Matori replied.
"But he was in a meeting yesterday, too!" James said.
"I'm afraid Giovanni is very busy these days." Matori said. "He is still recovering a bit from the Meteonite Debacle."
"We understand, but did you at least ask him what our next assignment is?" Jessie inquired.
"I did." Matori answered. "And Giovanni told me to tell you it's up to you. So do your best for Team Rocket. Farewell."
"Hey!" Meowth exclaimed after she ended the transmission. "You can't just go and hang up!"
"She said it's up to us!" Jessie said. "What does that mean?"
"Well, she also said we're supposed to do our best." James said.
"Our best?" Meowth asked. "Doing what?"
"Uh, perhaps she was alluding to us fighting the good fight." James said.
"It feels like the Boss is abandoning us!" Meowth said.
"Not true!" Jessie said determinedly. "No way! The Boss is counting on us, of course!"
"Right!" James said.
"You betcha!" Meowth said. "We're not gonna let him down 'cause we're gonna catch Pikachu for the Boss once and for all!"
"Excellent!" James said.
After they said this, they tossed their dark coats into the air as they switched back to their white outfits. It seemed though that their outfits had more of gray gradient to them though.
Jessie: "Challenging questions indeed!"
James: "The answers to come as we feel the need."
Jessie: "Bringing the blinding white light of evil into the future!"
James: "Thrusting the hammer of justice onto the blackness of the universe!
Meowth: "And carving our names into the rock of eternity!"
Jessie: "The fiery destroyer! I am Jessie!"
James: "And, with thunderous emotion, I am James!"
Meowth: "Wisest of the wise, I am Meowth!"
Jessie, James, and Meowth: "And as always, we gather under the name of Team Rocket!"
"We'll finally catch that powerful Pikachu and gift it to the Boss!" Jessie said.
"This time for sure!" James said.
"And it's Team Rocket for the win!" Jessie, James, and Meowth exclaimed.
Their attention was diverted though when they saw something appear.
"Who's that Pokémon?" Jessie pondered.
"I believe it's called a Yamask." James said.
"I would think catching it would serve to increase our overall strength!" Jessie said.
"Now you're talking!" Meowth said.
"Woobat, let's go!" Jessie exclaimed.
"Just a minute." James said after the Bat Pokémon appeared. "Perhaps this Yamask is hungry."
"Ya, Yamask!" ("Hmm, I'm intrigued!")
"Here we are." James said, pulling out what was in the case in front of them.
"Go on, eat!" James continued as he put it on the ground.
Yamask did just that. And it did it happily.
XXXXXXX
Yamask was then at peace from eating.
"Better?" James inquired. "I trust you're feeling full?"
"Ya, Ya Yamask!" ("Yep, I am full!")
"Fine!" James said. "Now, how would you like to join our team?"
"Ya, Yamask!" ("Hmm, Sounds good!")
"Good!" James said.
James then put a Poké Ball in front of Yamask. Yamask then happily opened it and went inside.
"A Yamask!" James exclaimed, standing up from kneeling in front of the Spirit Pokémon. "It's ours!"
"A sign of great things to come!" Jessie added.
"With a great boss, who needs more?" Meowth interjected.
A thought then crossed Jessie's mind. "You know what?"
"What Jessie?" James asked.
"Aside from stealing Pikachu, do you know what we can do?" Jessie said.
"What?" Meowth asked.
"We can avenge the name of Team Rocket that's what!" Jessie replied.
"Okay, but how do we do that?" Meowth asked.
"I think I get it." James said, nodding. "You're suggesting we try to find where Team Plasma is and cause trouble for them?"
"Precisely." Jessie said. "On the double!"
"What an excellent idea!" James said.
"Well, of course." Jessie said haughtily. "I thought of it."
"The Boss would be proud." James said kissing Jessie on the cheek.
"Uh, thanks." Jessie said, holding a hand to her left cheek while blushing a light red.
"Don't mention it." James said, also blushing a light red.
They then stayed there, looking into each others eyes. His green eyes staring into her blue eyes.
"Oh boy." Meowth said, rolling his eyes. He turned his back to them and shrugged. "Lovebirds."
This only caused the two Team Rocket Agents to blush more.
Jessie then kissed James on his left cheek before they composed themselves and got back to business. Which would be figuring if any of the Team Plasma Bases are near.
Normal Point of View
"Swadloon! You battled hard. Thanks." Ash exclaimed. "Return!"
"Interesting." Burgh commented.
"Great job Swadloon. Get a good rest." Ash said, looking at the Leaf-Wrapped Pokémon's Poké Ball before getting another Poké Ball ready. "Tranquill, I choose you!"
"Ah, a Flying-type Pokémon." Iris commented. "Ash is really going for broke!"
Well, I wouldn't say that exactly. Misty thought with a sweat-drop.
"His strategy's getting spicier for sure..." Cilan said.
"Now Tranquill!" Ash exclaimed. "Use Gust!"
"Protect!"
As Tranquill then flapped her wings once, unleashing a mighty gust of wind, the Nurturing Pokémon deflected it by forming its light green shield.
"Leaf Storm, go!"
Leavanny then raised its arms in the air. After it did, it gained a light green outline as leaves started to swirl around the Nurturing Pokémon. Lifting them above its head, it fired them at the Wild Pigeon Pokémon.
"Quick Tranquil, use Air Cutter!"
Tranquil then waved her wings in an "X" motion as a light blue "X"-shaped energy was released from the tips of her wings.
The two attacks managed to miss each other completely. Leaf Storm ended up dealing mild damage to Tranquill while Leavanny took the full brunt of the doubly super-effective attack.
"Tranquill's looking good." Iris commented.
"Indeed," Cilan agreed. "Although, it looks like Tranquill managed to take some damage from the attack."
"And Leavanny looks like it had taken a lot of damage from the doubly super-effective attack." Misty added, observing the faintly panting Nurturing Pokémon. "I will admit, for taking that much damage Leavanny is also looking good."
"Leavanny, use Hyper Beam to try and wrap this up!"
"What?" Iris exclaimed. "That Leavanny knows Hyper Beam?"
"It does add a dash of surprise." Cilan commented.
Between Leavanny's antennae, it created a pink orb of energy that was surrounded by a white orb of energy. Leavanny then unleashed the beam of pink and white at the Wild Pigeon Pokémon.
"Tranquill, dodge and use Gust!"
Tranquill attempted to dodge, but got a bit of the Hyper Beam. Recovering mildly, Tranquill then flapped her wings once, unleashing a powerful Gust at the Nurturing Pokémon.
At this point, both Leavanny and Tranquill were panting heavily from the onslaught. Another move like Hyper Beam or a move from Tranquill could easily decide the match.
"This battle is getting intense." Iris commented.
"I agree." Cilan said. "It looks like either side are determined to take the other out."
"Yeah." Misty said. "Both Pokémon look to be on the verge of fainting."
Leavanny, having recovered quickly from the recharge needed for Hyper Beam, was prepared to attack. Tranquill was prepared too as she hovered, waiting for her trainer's command.
"Leavanny, use Leaf Storm!"
The Nurturing Pokémon then raised its arms once more. After it did, the green outline around it appeared along with the many leaves of Leaf Storm. Leavanny then fired the attack, colliding directly with Tranquill. Tranquill however, was determined to hang on.
"Yeah, that's right Tranquill!" Ash exclaimed. "Use Air Cutter!"
"Quick Leavanny, use Hyper Beam!" Burgh shouted.
Leavanny then prepared an orb of pink and white above its head before eventually firing the pink and white beam. Tranquill then waved her wings again in a "X" motion before attacking with the light-blue attack of Air Cutter.
The Normal-type and Flying-type moves collided directly into one another. This erupted into a explosion, covering most of the battlefield and obscuring Leavanny and Tranquill from sight.
"Tranquill!"
"Leavanny!"
"So, who won?" Iris wondered.
As the smoke cleared, it was revealed that both Leavanny and Tranquill had fainted and were unable to battle.
"Leavanny and Tranquill are unable to battle!" The Judge announced. "However, the challenger, having one Pokémon left wins! Which means, the victory goes to Ash Ketchum of Pallet Town!"
"We did it!" Ash said excitedly, jumping in the air for a moment.
"Wow, Ash really won it!" Iris said.
"There's nothing like a surprise last course," Cilan added. "especially with such a spicy flavor to it!"
Ash then ran over to kneel next to his fainted Wild Pigeon Pokémon. "You battled long and hard Tranquill. I'm proud of you."
"Tranquill..." ("Thanks...") Tranquill chirped weakly.
"And I'm proud of you." Misty said, hugging Ash tightly after she ran into him from behind.
"Thanks Mist." Ash said, blushing a shade of red before turning over to kiss the Water-type Pokémon Trainer's head. This eliciting a quick happy giggle from her.
XXXXXXX
"You're one of the best challengers I've seen in a long time." Burgh said after coming to meet Ash in the middle of the battlefield. Next to Ash was Misty holding her Marill. Behind the two teens were Pikachu, Oshawott, Swadloon, and Tranquill.
"Here you go." Burgh continued as he pushed the container holding the Insect Badge closer. "Proof of your Castelia Gym Victory! The Insect Badge!"
Ash then took the Insect Badge and did his signature victory pose.
"This is awesome!" Ash exclaimed. "I just got the Insect Badge!"
The four Pokémon then jumped up to join their trainer in his enthusiasm while Misty looked on with a fond expression on her face.
"Misty, Iris, Cilan, I got the Insect Badge!" Ash said after he put the badge in his case and Iris and Cilan walked over.
"Yeah, I saw that Ash." Misty commented dryly, although there was a bit of humor to her voice.
"Great!" Iris said. "I was so worried!"
"Were you?" Misty asked, arching an eyebrow.
"Well, not as much as I could've been." Iris amended with a small sweat-drop.
"With every battle, your strategy recipe adds more ingredients!" Cilan interjected.
"He's right." Burgh said. "That was a great win."
"Good luck with your future gym battles!" Burgh continued.
"Thank you!" Ash said.
XXXXXXX
As the sun was setting on Castelia City, the teens were biding farewell to Burgh.
"Take care, everyone!" Burgh said. "And I wish you and Misty the best."
"Thanks a lot, Burgh!" Ash said.
"Hope to see you again!" Cilan said.
"And say hi to all your Bug-types!" Iris said.
"Goodness knows I won't." Misty said, faintly shuddering. Her hand in Ash's as he gave it a reassuring squeeze.
"Oh don't worry." Burgh said while Iris and Cilan were sweat-dropping at Misty's shuddering. "I have faith that we will meet again someday."
Before anyone could comment on that though, they decided to leave it be and started walking away to the next city, the next gym, and continued their journey throughout Unova.
"Only time will tell though," Burgh said to himself as they were out of earshot and farther away. "if we meet again during a good or bad situation."
When he went back into the Castelia City Gym and where he stored his artwork, in a corner of the room was his current project. It was a picture of Ash holding Sewaddle. The latter's sensory knobs were pressed against the former's forehead.
Burgh looked at it fondly before taking up an artist's palette and began weaving brush strokes on it. Soon enough, the picture would be finished.
XXXXXXX
Team Plasma's Point of View.
"Those two trainers - Ash and Misty - they intrigue me." N said, looking across from them in the shadows.
"What do you wish us to do?" The Absol Triad asked.
"Battle them?" The Accelgor Triad inquired.
"Get rid of them?" The Banette Triad pondered.
"No," N replied hastily. "Anything but that!"
"Then what?" Absol Triad inquired.
"I want you to keep an eye on them." N said. "And I have a feeling Ghetsis would want to do the same."
"As you wish Lord N." The Shadow Triad said in unison.
That Pikachu and that Marill. They seem so...happy?...those Pokémon confound me. N thought to himself. Even that Axew seems like it enjoys being with its Pokémon Trainer. I wonder if I'm losing my mind.
XXXXXXX
Normal Point of View
"So Cilan." Ash asked. "Where's the next gym?"
"You're such a little kid." Iris commented. "Always looking for the next gym or the next Pokémon Battle."
"Hey!" Ash shouted hotly.
"Well, is that false?" Misty asked, arching her eyebrow.
"No, not really." Ash said, hanging his head dejectedly. He perked up immediately though when Misty gave him a quick peck on the cheek.
"At least I know that's not all you think about." Misty said knowingly.
"Yeah, you're right Mist." Ash said. "One of the things that's on my mind is you."
"Ash..." Misty said, giving Ash a loving glance.
"It says that the next gym is in Nimbasa City." Cilan interjected.
"Awesome!" Ash exclaimed. "I can't wait to get my fourth gym badge!"
"Going to have to battle the gym leader first though." Misty said.
"I know that." Ash said.
The teens then heard a voice coming from behind them.
"Ash?" The familiar voice said while they we're running towards them. "And Iris and Cilan too!"
"Is that who I think it is?" Iris pondered.
"Yeah." Cilan said. "I think it is her."
The person coming towards them then, in her typical fashion, ran into Ash. Quite literally too. This caused Ash to fall, almost hitting a nearby tree.
"Ash!" Misty said, helping Ash up. Misty chuckled. "You okay?"
"Yeah, I'll be fine." Ash said.
"Bianca, what are you doing here?" Iris asked.
"Well, I saw you guys walking out of the city and I decided to follow you." Bianca replied.
"Who's this?" Cilan asked, gesturing to the woman next to Bianca.
"Oh she's a friend of mine that I met up with in Castelia City!" Bianca exclaimed. "She helped me rescue my poor Munna from these group of villainous people."
"Aw it was nothing. My Magmortar and I made quick work of those grunts." The woman said haughtily. "It was mainly Burgh's doing though."
"Still, thanks." Bianca said.
"Anyway, my name's Hilda!" The woman - Hilda - exclaimed.
"Nice to meet you." Ash said. "My name's Ash Ketchum and this is my buddy Pikachu!"
"Pikachu!" ("Hello!")
"And my name's Iris." Iris said. "And this is my friend Axew!"
"Axew!" ("Hi!")
"The name's Cilan and I'm a Pokémon Connoisseur." Cilan said.
"And who's this?" Bianca inquired, gesturing to Misty. "I assume she's a friend of yours?"
"You could say that." Cilan said.
"She's a friend of ours but she's really good friends with Ash." Iris said.
This caused Ash and Misty to flush a deep shade of red.
"I'm Misty Waterflower and this is my friend Marill." Misty said.
"Ma rill marill marill!" ("Pleased to meet you!")
"So, where are you guys headed?" Bianca asked.
"We're heading to Nimbasa City to challenge the Nimbasa Gym!" Ash exclaimed.
"That's great!" Bianca said. "I'll accompany you along the way!"
"And I'll follow you too." Hilda said, putting her elbow on Bianca's shoulder. "After all, someone has to try and keep Bianca from running into people."
The rest of the teens sweat-dropped at that.
"Thanks Hilda." Bianca said. "You're a good friend."
"Anytime Bianca." Hilda said. "Anytime."
XXXXXXX
"So Hilda, how long have you been on your journey?" Ash asked conversationally as they were walking along the path that would eventually lead to Nimbasa City.
"I'd say I left on my journey from Nuvema Town not long ago." Hilda replied. "After I received my Magby from my mom, I left on my Pokémon Journey. The day I left I would have to say would be around when some weird lightning was appearing over Nuvema Town."
"I remember that!" Ash exclaimed. "That was before I went on my Pokémon Journey around Unova."
"I also saw it before I met Ash." Iris added.
"How many badges do you have?" Misty inquired.
"Badges...badges." Hilda said thoughtfully, tapping her chin absently. "Ah yes! I have about two badges."
"Same as me!" Bianca said.
"I haven't exactly been on my journey that long." Hilda explained. "But once I get all eight badges I'm going to enter the Unova League!"
"Yeah?" Ash inquired. "We'll you're going to have to go by me if you want to win."
"Is that a challenge?" Hilda asked, raising an eyebrow.
"You bet it is!" Ash shouted.
Misty then pulled on Ash's collar. "Settle down there Pokémon Master, you still need to get all the badges."
"I know that." Ash said.
Just then though, Hilda's yellow X-Transceiver was ringing.
"Who's there?" Hilda inquired.
"Why Hilda, it's good to see you again!" The teen on the other side of the X-Transceiver exclaimed.
"Hilbert!" Hilda shouted. "It's good to see you again too."
"Want to meet up in Castelia City?" Hilbert asked. "I'm there right now and, let me tell you, I am bored out of my mind."
"Sure, Hilbert, I'll be..." Hilda trailed off, giving Bianca a glance.
Bianca merely had a big smile on her face and was nodding her head a little. "I'll be fine." Bianca said. Hilda had a grateful smile on her face.
"Thanks Bianca!" Hilda exclaimed, giving the girl a quick hug before turning back to her X-Transceiver. "Okay, Hilbert, sounds like fun! I'll be there right away!"
"Great!" Hilbert exclaimed, his Electivire close behind him. "I'll see you when you get here!"
"See you then!" Hilda said before Hilbert shut off his X-Transceiver. Hilda then turned to the group of teens. "Okay guys, good luck on your travels!"
And with that, Hilda was running back to Castelia City.
"What was that all about?" Iris pondered.
"Oh Iris, you're such a little kid." Ash said knowingly.
"What's that suppose to mean?" Iris inquired.
"Nothing." Ash said. "Nothing at all."
"Well, let's continue our way to Nimbasa City." Cilan interjected. "At least, before it gets to dark to travel."
"Right!" The other teens said in unison.
And with that, Ash and his friends were slowly making their way to Nimbasa City.
Author's Notes: N is such a stalker, wouldn't you agree? Well, it isn't like he gets out much. Aside from that though, it seems that someone else had made their way onto the scene. Those in question being Hilda and Hilbert. Also, if N seems confused and has no idea what to think, in all fairness to him, he isn't exactly the most social of people. Ghetsis and the other six sages have messed with his mind.
As for any reactions to Leavanny using Hyper Beam, that was really my own reaction. I honestly did not expect that Leavanny to utilize that move.