Pokémon Black and White
Chapter Thirty-Nine
Movie Time! Zorua in "The Legend of the Pokémon Knight!"
Ever since she discovered that the Kanto-based Team Rocket lurks in the shadows of the fair land of Unova, Officer Jenny is relentless in her pursuit of any clues that could point to their next maneuver.
And thus, it's through this unwavering search that she's able to find several noteworthy news articles. While most of them detail petty activities in Kanto, she's able to find more disturbing tales of various nefarious exploits. Moreover, not only can she find them in Kanto, there's at least one tale to be found in the regions of Johto, Hoenn, Sinnoh and even in Unova.
(How she hadn't heard of such a treacherous debacle until that moment eludes Officer Jenny.)
Officer Jenny hums, deep and thoughtful, as she rubs the head of her faithful Herdier. The action helps bring clarity as she studies the various notes she had taken on the myriad of news pieces she found.
A Brilliant Blaze of Light! An Explosion Rocks the City!
Terror Aboard the St. Anne?! Evil Strikes!
Chaos in the Safari Zone! A Mysterious Figure Emerges?!
Dangers in Cyberspace?!
Strange Radio Frequencies?! A Tale of Red Injury!
Mayhem in Mossdeep?! Trouble Abound the Starry Flight!
Darkness Looms Over Eterna?! The Adamant Imperiled!
Darkness Looms Over Celestic?! The Lustrous Imperiled!
Castelia Consumed with Unease! Suspicious Forces Intimidate the Townsfolk!
It's the last article that gives her pause and no small amount of satisfaction. Whilst it sounds like Team Rocket caused quite the stir, familiar faces quickly put a stop to such unpleasant shenanigans. Not only that, but it would appear that a contingent of good samaritans sought to aid them as well.
"Team Plasma, huh." she recounts with a smile, going over the article stating their name, their involvement, and little else. "I'm glad to see such heroes right here in Unova."
Herdier merely relaxes under its trainer's ministrations.
Officer Jenny frowns. "These articles are impressive, but I still know too little about this Team Rocket."
Herdier growls, but otherwise doesn't react.
Lifting her free hand to her chin, Officer Jenny closes her eyes and hums. She sighs and sighs until, in a flash as incredible as that of Zekrom's electricity, it hits her.
"I don't know much about the Kanto-based Team Rocket, but maybe…" Officer Jenny trails off into thoughtful remembrance, her free hand going to pick up a photo showing but one regiment of Officer Jennys: her close family members here in Unova. They all stand at attention and salute, the symbols on their hats of varying design. "Maybe there's someone who does."
The atmosphere is tense, the lights dim and the crowd enthusiastic as two opposing forces of great energy and power exist within a dramatic confrontation. Dressed in stunning apparel and outfitted with the most magnificent of machineries, the young man and young woman stare at each other across a vast expanse.
In one corner, a beautiful heroine. With flowing brown hair, a yellow belt, and a simple pink dress, she stands as a paragon of virtue. Her Pokémon of choice: a stalwart Golurk.
In the other, a man of ill repute and ambiguous moral standing. A shock of green hair upon his head, a cape upon his shoulders and dark blue attire, he stands as but a curious existence in the young heroine's path. His Pokémon of choice: a vicious-looking Escavalier.
"This battle has gone on long enough!" the heroine cries, sweeping her right arm through the air. Bringing it next to her face at a ninety degree angle, her curious red and white machine gleams at attention. "Time for my Wonder Launcher!"
She follows up her exclamation by putting a small red and white circular object into the opening at the base of her strange device: the eponymous Wonder Launcher. The Wonder Launcher gleams with a beautiful crimson light as the heroine brings the device up above her head before training it directly on her Golurk's back.
"Great X Attack, go!"
No sooner had she uttered such words did a brilliant stream of red and white light erupt from her Wonder Launcher and suffused itself with Golurk. Sparkling with a dim red, Golurk shudders but once before bringing its arms up high with a triumphant cry.
"I couldn't agree more, my dear." the mysterious man remarks with a smirk. He brandishes his own Wonder Launcher, the device a sickening dark green and gray. "It's our turn."
The man says no more as he inserts a circular device of blue and white into the base of his Wonder Launcher. It gleams with a sparkling blue light.
"Go!" the man shouts before firing a beam of pure blue energy at the back of his Escavalier. "Ultra X Defend!"
As Escavalier feels the might of the X Defend course through it, its defense raised by three stages, it leaps into battle. Although Escavalier charges into battle, Golurk remains unmoved, even as its attack is raised by two stages.
And just as these two titans are about to clash…
"Wonder Fighters: The Movie: Part Twenty-Four…"
"Wonder Fighters: The Movie: Part Twenty-Four." a man says over a freeze frame of Escavalier and Golurk engaged in a mighty battle. "The Mystery of the Wonder Launcher. In theaters now. Where all secrets are finally revealed."
"Wonder…" Ash says as he, Misty, Cilan and Iris stand before a giant electronic screen. He crosses his arms over his chest, an eyebrow raised. "Launcher?"
"Pika?"
"Party Twenty-Four." Misty echoes, nodding once. "They must have a lot of material."
Turning to face her two friends, Iris opens her mouth to speak. She doesn't get further than that as - with sparkling eyes and exuberant manner - Cilan nearby bumps into her, an enthusiastic exclamation on his lips.
"Which means it's Movie Time!"
Cilan nods his head thrice, placing a hand upon his heart as he happily regards the silver screen.
"Ah, the Wonder Launcher series!" he cries. "I love the amazing equipment the main characters use in each new movie! Starting with this one, a new actor - her first role, ever! - is playing the lead Wonder Fighter!
Cilan sighs dreamily. "It's the fifth actor to play the role! My favorite was the third actor playing the lead Wonder Fighter, who played it cool!" he sighs, more resigned this time. "Though he was replaced after just one movie." an excited gasp and Cilan jumps. "Ah, but what a movie it was! The emotion, the cinematography, the soundtrack! Everything from the screenwriting to the sets was trés magnifique!"
"I'm still not sure what these movies are all about." Ash admits.
Cilan gasps, looking scandalized. "Well, it's very simple! The Wonder Launcher series seeks to combine the mysticism of Pokémon with the grand allure of science! In most circles, people say that the first three movies were second to none! They told the gallant story of the first ever actor to play the role of Wonder Fighter and how they discovered incredible treasures, unraveled a rich family history, and found the true meaning of love and friendship!"
Cilan sighs once more, an elegant rosy flush adorning his cheekbones.
"The Wonder Launcher series is pretty popular in Unova, I'll give him that." Iris grumbles.
"You sure know you're stuff, huh Cilan?" Ash says.
"But of course!" Cilan answers, turning a blinding smile on his three companions. "For you see, I just happen to be a Film Connoisseur as well!"
"You'd have to be to watch that many movies and remember that many details." Misty remarks.
Despite her previously acerbic words, Iris cannot help but be swept up in the sanguine atmosphere.
"Whenever the Village of Dragons had a festival with movies, I couldn't wait to go!" Iris says, grinning. "I love movies!"
"I'm totally into movies, too!" Ash says.
"You could say that again." Misty remarks, catching her boyfriend's eye.
"Not exactly what I was thinking about." Ash admits on a laugh.
A laugh that soon turns into a grimace as the words sink in and the memories come rushing back. For but a moment, the trio of Ash, Misty and Pikachu look troubled.
Iris and Cilan gasp as, unbeknownst to Ash and Misty, a figure creeps up behind them. A figure with familiar clothing and a head of striking brown hair.
Ash and Misty exchange a look before looking at their friends.
"You guys look like you've seen a Ghost-Type." Misty says.
"What's gotten into you guys?" Ash adds, soon scratching his cheek. "Wait, do I have something on my face?"
"Not exactly." Cilan says.
"Though you should try not to eat like an entire family of Snorlax." Iris says.
A giggle, sharp and mischievous, cuts through the air. It startles Ash and Misty into looking behind them, surprised themselves to see not only someone with such stealthy capabilities, but how that person is none other than the lead actress they previously saw on the silver screen.
"Hey, you're the Wonder Fighter!" Ash shouts.
Misty does a double take, glancing between the young woman and the nearby screen. "There's something strange going on."
Misty's suspicions turn out to be well-founded as, with another mischievous giggle, the actress leaps into the air. Her form changes, consumed in a bright sphere of pale pink light. When her form solidifies once more, gone is the Wonder Fighter and in her place is…
"A shapeshifter?!" Cilan cries, looking a tad faint.
"Two Irises?!" Ash says, crossing his arms over his chest. "Now I'm really confused."
The faux Iris jumps into the air once more with nary a sound. Her form changes to that of the pale pink light once more. And when it fades, it leaves behind a most familiar creature, especially to Ash and Pikachu.
The small creature - its fur dark gray save for the tuft of crimson atop its head - barks at them, grinning.
"Axew."
"Marill."
"Wait a second…" Ash says.
"It's a Zorua!" Cilan says.
"Pikachu." he says, jumping off his trainer's shoulder to better view the new arrival.
"So it's from the Unova Region?" Ash mutters; a statement and question. He pulls forth his Pokédex.
"Zorua, the Tricky Fox Pokémon. Female. Ability: Illusion. Zorua hides its true form by changing its shape into people and Pokémon and loves to surprise people."
"Hey, Cilan, isn't Zorua a really rare Pokémon?" Iris asks.
"Hm." Cilan answers with a nod. "This is the first time I've ever seen one."
"Oh!" Iris cries, a gleam in her eyes as she focuses on Zorua. "This is so cool! I've just gotta—"
The sound of someone shouting "Hey!" in the distance disrupts any further conversation between the four friends. Looking between each other and then their Pokémon, Misty is the first to see the origin of such a sound.
A few paces away, a young man with glasses and suspenders is rushing towards them, a hand outstretched. Next to him, carting around what looks like cinematic equipment, appears to be a miniature Golurk.
"Please!" the young man cries; he pants, but doesn't relent. "Please don't let my Zorua get away! She's my Pokémon!"
Iris visibly deflates then grins and shrugs dizzyingly fast.. "So she has a trainer. Oh well!"
No one catches Zorua's dour expression as she leaps into the air. Suffused with a pink energy that's becoming steadily familiar, she transforms into a tellingly male Pikachu.
"Huh?"
"A Pikachu?!"
Both Ash and Misty watch as the faux Pikachu tackles Ash's Pikachu. The two brawl, spinning around and around three times.
It's enough for a casual observer to be confused as to who's who.
"Huh!" Iris exclaims, pointing at one before shifting to the other and back again. She lifts the same finger to tap her cheek thoughtfully. "Which one's the real Pikachu?"
"The real Pikachu?" it is Misty, not Ash, who ends up speaking. She wears a smile that is nothing sort of insufferably smug. "That's easy! It's obviously—"
Misty is unable to finish her sentence as, upon reaching them, the young man tackles the two Pikachu. The action kicks up a cloud of dust, obscuring them from sight for a few short moments.
"Gotcha, pal!" the young man exclaims triumphantly as he holds up a Pikachu.
Despite his cheer, Ash and Misty regard the scene with uncertain frowns.
"That's definitely a Pikachu." Misty remarks blithely.
"Yeah, uh…" Ash trails off, scratching at his cheek. "Actually, that's my Pikachu."
"Huh?!" The young man exclaims; he does a double take between Ash and the Pikachu in his possession. He brings it down closer for better examination. "Are you sure?"
"Sure I'm sure!" Ash declares with a crooked grin. "Ain't that right, buddy?"
The Pikachu in the unknown man's grasp doesn't speak to make their identity known. Instead, their cheeks sparking dangerously, they unleash a powerful Thunderbolt attack upon their captor. The young man promptly falls over from the shock the same time Pikachu jumps onto Ash's shoulder.
The young man twitches once, then twice. Slightly singed, he sits back up and vigorously shakes his head.
"Talk about bouncin' back." Ash muses.
"Zorua can look like any Pokémon it wants to," Cilan explains. "but it can only use its own moves."
"Where'd my Zorua go?" the young man wonders.
"Golett!" the miniature Golurk exclaims, pointing a stubby blue finger at Iris' impressive coiffure the same time Axew pops its head out.
"Axew?"
"Turned into an Axew, huh?" the young man says, tone accusatory.
"Excuse me?!" with a disposition just as fiery, Iris whirls on their new arrival. "This is my—"
Iris stops herself mid-sentence when she notices another Axew poke their head out of her head. And laughs, a telling sound.
"That one's mine!" the young man declares as he, uninhibited, reaches for the Axew closest to him.
"Ah!" Iris cries, going into a defensive crouch the same time Cilan declares, "H-Hey, now is no time for such…im-impropriety!"
Despite their words and actions, it would seem the young man and his mischievous Zorua exist in their own little world. The faux Axew pops her head out of Iris' hair with speed and randomness not unlike that of a Whack-A-Diglett game. And just like a Whack-A-Diglett game, as the young man reaches for his Pokémon, all his efforts are for naught.
"Zorua, knock it off!" he cries, each word punctuated by a fruitless graze of Iris' hair.
"Will you stop this right now?!"
That passionate demand upon her lips, Iris jumps to her feet and promptly hides behind Cilan.
"Indeed!" Cilan agrees. Though his tone doesn't lose its usual cheeriness, there's a firm coldness to his eyes that didn't exist a few moments prior. "I understand wanting to reclaim your Pokémon, but your actions thus far are absurd!"
"Ahh!" the young man cries, looking doubly poleaxed by both Iris' sudden movements and Cilan's harsh censure. "Right, right. Sorry."
The faux Axew only pokes her head out of Iris' hair, oblivious.
"Alright!" the young man shouts. Rifling through the back pockets of his pants, he soon brings forth a Poké Ball. "Zorua, return!"
It soon becomes clear that the faux Axew isn't as oblivious as previously anticipated as she quickly jumps out of Iris' hair. Engulfed in pink energy, she reverts to her Zorua form and - while still suspended in mid-air - gathers a dark mass of energy in her jaws. The purplish-black energy spiking, Zorua fires off the Shadow Ball at her trainer.
Or rather, the ground at his feet.
The attack doesn't hit anyone. Instead, it sends up another cloud of dust, causing the young man, his miniature Golurk, Ash and Misty to become obscured from sight. They cough and cough and, when the dust clears, they find that the Zorua is nowhere to be found.
(Concerned as they are for their friends, Iris and Cilan's attentions are elsewhere.)
"Talk about having a temper." Misty grumbles.
"You're telling me." both Ash and the young man remark, each of them with distinctly different tones.
As the last of the coughing subsides, the young man is the first to react.
"Huh? Where'd Zorua go?" he looks around and around; lifting a hand to his mouth, he calls his Pokémon's name twice before his shoulders slump in dismay. "Zorua, come back!"
The young man sighs, earning a compassionate pat on the back from his miniature Golurk.
"Guess we cancel shooting today."
"Golett."
"Shooting?" Cilan parrots.
The young man starts, as if forgetting the presence of others. He turns to Cilan, expression downtrodden. "We're shooting a movie. And that Zorua just happens to be our lead actress."
"Movie?" Ash repeats.
"And Zorua's your lead actress?" Iris says as she and her three companions take to standing in front of the young man. She hums; her fingers in her hair, she tries her best to undo the chaos the man's Zorua wrought.
"Mhm." the young man nods. "I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Luke. See, my dream is to become a big-time movie director." he turns away from Ash and the others briefly to rub his miniature Golurk on the head. "And this is my assistant, Golett."
"Golett!" it greets with a click of a clapperboard.
"Golett, huh." Ash muses, soon bringing out his Pokédex.
"Golett. The Automaton Pokémon. Genderless. Ability: Iron Fist. It is said that Golett was instructed to protect people and Pokémon by the ancient civilization that created it."
"I'm Ash," he says, pocketing his Pokédex. "and I want to become a Pokémon Master." he looks over his shoulder at Pikachu. "This's my partner, Pikachu."
"Pikachu!" he greets with a wave of his paw.
"The name's Misty!" she declares with a grin, hugging her Marill close. "This is my Marill and I'm aiming to be a Water-Type Pokémon expert!"
"My name's Iris," she says, using one hand to scratch Axew's chin. "You've already met my Pokémon. I want to become a Dragon Master!"
There's a thoughtful expression on Cilan's face, his lips a thin line. It fades quickly as he introduces himself. "I'm Cilan. Previously of the Striaton Gym, I'm a Pokémon Connoisseur." he winks at Luke, any animosity forgotten as he adds, "Film Connoisseur too."
"Oh," Luke murmurs, mystified. "Film Connoisseur? Cool."
"So, why did Zorua run away?" Ash asks.
"That's a good question." Luke says, rubbing at the back of his neck. "To tell the truth, I'm not sure myself. We were right in the middle of shooting a scene when suddenly…"
Luke soon launches into his tale detailing what occurred. He spoke of how he was filming with Golett and Zorua at the time. He spoke of how Golett maintained all the equipment whilst Zorua served as the actress. He spoke of how the characters used in the scene were a princess, a pirate and a knight. He spoke of how everything was progressing smoothly as they finished up the scene with the princess in distress.
He also spoke of how everything started to go awry when he sought to film the dueling scene. In the scene the pirate and the knight were to do battle as the captor and savior fought for the princess' sake. However, Zorua only transformed into the pirate and the knight briefly before transforming back into the princess.
Lastly, he spoke of how, with a strange expression on Zorua's face, she transformed from the princess to her Pokémon form and ran off.
"...And then I found her with you guys." Luke finishes. "That's how it all happened."
"Hm." Cilan says. "Abrupt refusal to perform."
"Zorua must have had a good reason for it." Iris suggests.
"You think?" Luke says. He sighs, not waiting for a response. "But, now what am I gonna do?"
"Well, that should be obvious!" Misty exclaims brightly with a wink.
"First thing is to go find Zorua!" Ash adds.
"We cannot solve anything with the star in distress!" Cilan reasons.
"Right." Luke agrees.
"Any idea where it might be?" Iris asks, lifting a hand into the air whilst placing the other on her hip.
"Where?" Luke repeats. "Where? Where?"
Luke gasps, his eyes lighting up.
No one is afforded the opportunity to ask what caused such a reaction as Luke breaks off into a sprint, Golett close behind.
"Looks like he thought of something!" Ash surmises.
"We shouldn't just stand here!" Cilan asserts. "Let's follow him!"
Ash and his friends soon break off into a run of their own, in close pursuit of their new friend.
"This is where Zorua and I met."
When Ash and his friends finally catch up with Luke, the five of them and their Pokémon friends stand outside what looks like a movie theater. And one of them quickly becomes distracted by the images plastered all over the movie theater's marquee. The marquee has no lights or words to speak of. Instead, it features a most beautiful scene.
A woman with an orangish-yellow bonnet and dark green dress drives a yellow moped as a man with dark brown hair and a golden trench coat has his hands on her waist. Expressions of joy and affection on their faces, they stand in the foreground of the scene. As for the background, it features a magnificent architectural arch as well as an iron and steel marvel that extends high into the sky. And all of it is superimposed on a majestic starlit night.
"Oh, are they featuring a French romance here?!" Misty squeals in shameless delight. Swept up in her trainer's enthusiasm, both her and Marill have stars in their eyes. "I've just got to see this! I wonder if I'll recognize any of the actors? Are there gonna be Pokémon in it or will it just be a strictly human cast? Is there gonna be a lot of fantasy or will it be more realistic? Will it be more a comedy or a drama or or or!"
However, as there exists stargazers so too do there exist those that bring them back down to Earth. Cilan, Iris, and Luke find their pursuit of the missing Zorua momentarily derailed by a comical scene.
"Or maybe we can watch it some other time." Ash remarks as he pulls Misty away by the ear; the stars in her eyes having transformed into giant pale pink hearts.
"Pikachu Pika Pika, Pikapi." he remarks as he pulls Marill away by the ear, a familiar sight in her own eyes.
Cilan, Iris and Luke regard their friends with puzzlement; Luke is the first to recover.
"It's the oldest movie theater in town." he explains. "Locals love to gather here to watch all sorts of films. I've heard people from all over Unova visit here too!"
Iris shakes her head twice, blinking once. "Wow, that sounds amazing!"
Cilan nods his head, a hand to his chin. "A rich recipe steeped in tradition and peppered with the spirit of camaraderie!"
Luke hums in agreement. "I'm the assistant projectionist, so I get to watch movies for free!"
"You said this is the place where Zorua and you first met?"
Ash and Misty rejoin their friends, looking entirely unphased.
"A movie theater." Misty says, sounding wistful. "That's a pretty beautiful place to make a lasting friendship!"
"It is!" Luke confirms. "Though, I didn't know it was Zorua right away. In fact, I was more convinced that famous actresses decided to visit our town."
"How do you mean?" Iris asks.
"Acclaimed performers do tend to live thrilling lives." Cilan says. "It's not entirely uncommon for them to visit smaller communities to relax."
"But it was actually Zorua!" Ash says. "She liked to transform back then, huh?"
Luke nods animatedly, a smile on his face. "That's right. I was watching a film with the projectionist when I noticed her, sitting right there in the center aisle. Someone who looked exactly like the leading lady."
"That would've been quite the shock under the best of circumstances." Cilan muses.
"That wasn't the end." Luke says. "At a different movie after that and the movie after that, I saw two different people who looked exactly like the star of the film! And it was during the third film - a story about a young woman wanting to save her childhood Pidove from being captured by a Pokémon Poacher - that I decided to investigate."
Not for the first time that day, Luke recounts past events to his new friends. He tells them of how, with his camcorder at the ready, he sought to encounter and perhaps even document such a rare meeting. How, when he entered the room, he couldn't find her at first. How she soon made an introduction with mischievous laughter and transformation into her Pokémon form before cloaking herself with the elegant image of a blonde princess.
A princess who Luke had recognized as one from his most favorite film.
"And that's how Zorua and I became movie partners." Luke finishes up.
"Wow!" Iris says. "A Zorua that's in love with movies!"
"Hey, Luke!"
"Huh?"
Ash and his friends find themselves greeted by an unfamiliar gentleman. Appearance kind and elderly, his eyes scan each of them in turn before landing on Luke.
"Mister Matthews!"
"Mister Matthews?" Misty repeats.
"I'd like you to meet Mister Matthews." Luke says. "The theater manager! Also the projectionist!"
"Nice to meet you!" Ash, Misty and Iris assert in near-unison.
"A pleasure to make your acquaintance." Cilan adds; a hand to his heart, he drops into a slight bow.
"Nice to meet you!" Matthews says. "Thought you should know Luke that Zorua just went inside."
"Really?" Luke asks.
Matthews only nods his head.
"Let's go in!" Luke says.
Ash and his friends nod their heads in acquiescence.
After Mister Matthews explained further - that Zorua was located in Theater Room Number Five - it didn't take long for Luke and his new friends to emerge onto the scene.
"Mister Matthews said Zorua would be in here…" Luke says, half to himself as the doors to the theater room close shut behind him. His eyes widened, being the first to locate the other occupant in the room: a woman with long-flowing blonde hair and a silver gown. "There!"
Still in her transformed form, Zorua looks much less pleased to see her trainer. She even growls, a harsh cast to her features.
"A princess?!" Iris shouts.
"That's Princess Yuria." Luke explains. "The lead character in the film I'm shooting now."
The five of them as well as their Pokémon don't say a single word more as they move down the aisles. Arriving before the stage, that's when Zorua transforms back into her Pokémon form. Given her hostile posture and her grimace, she looks ready to launch another Shadow Ball attack.
"Zorua looks pretty angry to me." Iris remarks.
Misty says nothing, tightening her hold just a bit on her Marill. At the same time, Cilan cups his chin; his eyes fall shut, looking deep in thought.
"Hey Zorua." Ash says, returning Zorua's glare with one of his own. "We're your partner Luke's friends."
"Now, let's see…" Cilan starts. Opening his eyes, he directs his attention to Luke. "If I recall correctly, Zorua was playing every role in your movie, is that right?"
"Mm-hm." Luke answers. "Yeah, that's the deal."
"That's what's wrong!" Cilan declares.
Luke and his friends look at Cilan blankly, not quite understanding.
"Since Zorua's a girl," Cilan elaborates. "maybe she only wants to play the role of the princess?"
Letting out a happy bark, a smile on Zorua's face, it's clear what the answer is to Cilan's ruminations.
"I think Zorua agrees with you!" Iris says.
"The reason why you got upset and ran away is because you only want to play Princess Yuria?" Luke asks.
Zorua barks twice more.
"I hear you!" Luke says. Despite his prior enthusiasm, he crosses his arms over his chest, looking puzzled. "But how do I make a movie with only one character?"
"Sounds to me like that's our cue!" Cilan says.
"Our cue?" Iris repeats.
"To do what exactly?" Misty adds.
"Remember!" Cilan beseeches. "A friend in need is a friend indeed, correct?"
"Are you saying we play the other roles?" Iris says.
"I'll do it!" Ash says, pumping a fist in the air. "Sounds like fun!"
"Pika Pikachu!" he says, raising a paw.
Misty chuckles, lifting a hand to the back of her neck and looking skyward. "A face as lovely as mine; it's perfect for the big screen!"
"Wow, you mean it?" Luke says. "That'd be great!"
"Our pleasure!" Cilan says with a snap of his fingers and a wink.
Zorua barks twice more with joy.
"Okay!" Luke shouts. Producing a Poké Ball, he throws it up into the air. "Leavanny, come on out!"
"Leavanny!" it says, dropping into a slight bow.
At the sight of the new arrival, Misty's entire body shudders, a frightened expression on her face. She takes a deep breath and smiles. Nonetheless, she takes to hiding behind a theater seat five rows away.
"Uh…" Luke says, lifting a hand to point at Misty. "Is she alright?"
"Yeah, she's just fine." Iris remarks.
"Misty's…a little scared of Bug-Type Pokémon." Ash says on a sheepish laugh.
"Just give me a second!" Misty says, eying Leavanny warily.
"Leavanny!" Luke says, addressing his Pokémon. "Will you make costumes for everyone?"
"Van!" it answers happily.
"We can help too!" Iris says.
"Yeah!" Ash says.
"M-Me too!" Misty says, even as she hides two rows away.
"In the meantime, I'll have to tweak the script a bit." Luke says.
"Luke."
Luke and his newfound friends look up to the projector to find Mister Matthews peeking through.
"There's an empty space in the film storage room around back." he says. "You're welcome to use it."
"Thanks a lot, Mister Matthews!" Luke says. "Okay, let's make the best movie the world's ever seen!"
Ash and his friends offer up similar cries of jubilant agreement.
It doesn't take long for Ash and his friends to get to work. With there being so much involved in the making of a movie, they split the tasks evenly amongst themselves and their Pokémon.
Luke busies himself with rewriting the script to accommodate not only multiple actors, but their speaking roles too.
Iris helps Luke's Leavanny and Ash's Swadloon with making costumes for the Bandit Pirate, the Pokémon Knight and Dragon Master as well an outfit to suit Misty's water-based talents. Moreover - with her ability to transform as full of possibilities as Eevee's DNA - Zorua provides help of her own by turning into the necessary characters. As for Ash, Misty, and Cilan, they assist Luke's Golett, Ash's Pikachu and Oshawott, Misty's Marill and Cilan's Pansage with making a variety of props for the characters to use over the course of the film.
(Oshawott is personally quite proud of the sword he crafted.)
Taking a momentary break to refresh his mind, Luke joins his friends to look over their combined efforts. All in all, they're impressed and satisfied.
Cheers ripple throughout the theater's back room before Luke advises them to start working on the set next whilst he tries to finish up the script.
(But not before extending their break for just a short while more for a quick meal.)
Everything progresses smoothly as the five Pokémon Trainers and their faithful companions set themselves to task. Ash and Misty busy themselves with crafting the pieces for the castle whilst Cilan lends his expertise to an uncertain Luke. Working together, as the two regard several colorful sketches of the actors and locales represented in the picture, Cilan and Luke steadily work out the finishing touches on the script.
Once Ash and Misty complete the set piece, they rejoin Iris for some last minute costume pieces. Iris focuses on a sword, Ash a shield and Misty a staff. Although Pikachu and Marill were most helpful and Axew was sleeping soundly in Iris' hair, the same could not be said for Emolga and Snivy. The two of them did try to lend some assistance, but it wasn't long before their rivalry caused them to fight.
They grappled with one another, their actions sending two buckets of paint to go flying. The two buckets end up on Iris and Ash's heads, soaking them with paint.
As Ash and Iris focus on cleaning up - and Misty with the few touches remaining on the costumes - Luke manages to complete the script; a triumphant cry soon fills the air.
Just in time too, for not only do the colors of pale pink and dark purple dye the sky with their extraordinary colors, but the five humans and their Pokémon feel entirely exhausted.
This merry band is fast asleep until morning.
When dawn breaks, Luke, Ash and the others meet in the same auditorium where they found Zorua the day prior. Luke stands before his newfound friends and Zorua with an easel and his Golett.
Luke clears his throat before launching into the film's explanation. "Okay, here's the plotline in a nutshell. It's called the 'Legend of the Pokémon Knight'."
Luke removes the simple light blue paper obscuring the images to reveal the first page: a sword and cane interlocked over a green and golden shield on a purple background. He removes the page to show the next image: a depiction of Ash, Cilan, and Zorua-as-Yuria outside a glorious castle.
With very charming brushstrokes, it shows Ash in the garb of a knight, Cilan the regalia of a pirate and Yuria in her princess attire. Lying on the ground, clearly in no position to move, Ash reaches for Yuria whilst Cilan laughs at his misfortune, whisking the princess to parts unknown.
"One day, the Kingdom of Pallet's beautiful princess, Yuria, is kidnapped by Captain Cilan the Pirate. Because she alone holds the secret to finding the kingdom's treasure." Luke continues. He pulls aside the next two papers in rapid succession to show two images. The first shows Ash and Pikachu battling with Iris and Axew in a stylized depiction of a forest. Pikachu is in the midst of firing off a devastating Thunderbolt whilst Axew opts for a terrifying Dragon Rage.
The second shows Ash and his Pikachu facing off against Misty and her Staryu, the two of them separated by a glorious waterfall. It shows Pikachu in midair, his tail glowing a brilliant silver as he prepares an Iron Tail the same time ice crystals gather around Staryu's form, fortelling an Ice Beam attack.
"Meanwhile," Luke says. "Sir Ash, a Pokémon Knight, vows to rescue the princess and journeys to meet legendary Dragon Master Iris and Water Master Misty, overcoming many obstacles along the way."
Luke pulls aside the image of Ash and Misty battling to show a new scene. The scene depicts Cilan and his Pansage beaten and unconscious on the deck of his mighty vessel. Nearby, their jubilant triumph clear to see, Ash, Misty, Princess Yuria and their Pokémon stand, content in their victory.
"Finally," Luke says. "Ash, along with his partner Pikachu and their new ally Misty, defeats Captain Cilan and rescues Princess Yuria!"
"Wow, that sounds like a great story!" Ash remarks. Rubbing Pikachu's head with one hand, he uses his free one to give Misty a thumbs-up. "Looks like the two of us make a great team!"
"Cha~!" Pikachu cries as Misty, saying nothing, has a bright gleam in her eyes.
"Typical." Iris remarks. "Getting carried away the moment you see something cool." she looks down at Axew, not waiting for Ash's reply even as he turns to her with an indignant stare. "If anything, what's really impressive is the legendary Dragon Master, right Axew?"
"Axew!" he cries; eyes falling shut, he lifts up a claw.
Iris nods her head once before turning to Cilan. The man in question is currently starring at the easel. Arms crossed over his chest, attention unwavering, he appears deeply thoughtful.
"Too bad you're the bad guy, Cilan."
Cilan laughs. At first, the sound is sudden and silted, earning concerned stares from Ash, Misty and Iris. However, in Misty's case, her eyes are just a tad narrowed with suspicion. Cilan laughs once more, this time more genuine and fitting of his exuberant personality.
"'Too bad'?" he repeats. "Villains play a vital role in an action movie. You see, the actor that plays the villain must show real depth of character, accentuating the hero and heroine's characters. Which makes me a hero too."
"I couldn't agree more!" Luke says with a closed-lip smile. "Each and every character in a movie helps it reach its full potential! Now, let's hit the set!"
"Golett!" it cries.
The set, as it turns out, is actually two pieces. Placed in the center of an open area, there is a castle on one side and a pirate ship on the other, both of them separated by several feet. Cilan, his Pansage and Zorua stand on the deck of the pirate ship whilst Ash - with Pikachu on his shoulder - stand between the pirate ship and the castle.
As for the others, they're either recording the proceedings or lending their assistance behind the scenes.
"The first scene: this is where Captain Cilan kidnaps Princess Yuria in front of Sir Ash." Luke says, fiddling with his camera to get just the right angle.
Standing atop the ship, Cilan is dressed in the black and red coat and purple doublet of the wicked pirate, his trusted Pansage at his side. A long mustache, separated in the middle, adorns his face. At Cilan's waist, a makeshift sword rests. As for Zorua, she need only transform into Princess Yuria to prepare, her arms bound behind her back.
Ash, meanwhile, is dressed in brown boots, white trousers and a blue doublet and hat. A makeshift sword rests at his belt. Pikachu rustles the red cape around his trainer's shoulders when he jumps to the ground.
"Ready?" Luke says, once satisfied with his camerawork. Golett gets into its own position: it stands to the side of Luke's camera, holding a clapperboard with 5-1 written on it in front of the camera.
"Ready!" Ash, Misty, Cilan and Iris cry out.
(Not even Pikachu notices the way that Ash's voice wavers with uncertainty.)
"And…" Luke drawls. "Action!"
The click of the clapperboard serving as his cue, Ash begins. He begins, and it's only then that his nervousness becomes readily apparent.
"Uhh, stop Captain Cilan!" Ash shouts. "Release the princess! Princess Yuria!"
"Cut! Cut!" Luke says, bringing the shooting to an end for the moment. Moving away from the camera, he crosses the distance to meet with Ash. "You're too nervous. I think you should try to chill out a bit."
Ash laughs, rubbing at the back of his neck. "Guess this is harder than I thought."
"Ash."
In his current mindset, Ash is startled just a little when he feels a hand suddenly clamp down on his shoulder. Looking over, he sees that strange minds think alike for Cilan came down from the pirate ship to check on him.
"Have you ever seen the film which follows a young actress and her passion for acting?" Cilan continues. "The classic Yamask of the Opera."
Cilan steps away from his friend then, embracing himself with his eyes closed. "In order to capture an audience, you must become one with your character!" he performs a little twirl, spreading his arms out wide. "And once you become your character, there's no room to be nervous!"
"You sure talk like a film connoisseur." Ash remarks. With his eyes wide and tone of voice, he looks more unnerved by Cilan's behavior than the prospect of acting. "Wish I knew what you meant."
Cilan's only response is to fall to the ground, the color draining from his form. "Such is the life of a film connoisseur." he murmurs into the dirt.
He recovers a moment later, taking his place atop the pirate ship once again.
"Basically," Luke says with a sympathetic glance in Cilan's direction. "Cilan is saying: give it all you've got!"
"That's what he meant?" Ash says. "No problem!"
"That's the spirit!" Luke remarks, already making for his camera. "Once again!"
With his back turned, Luke doesn't see how doubt still lingers on Ash's face. But another does.
"Hey Ash!" Misty calls, one hand to the side of her mouth. "Don't think of this as acting; think of it like a Pokémon battle!"
"Think like a Pokémon battle?" Ash repeats thoughtfully. There's a beat; he turns back to Cilan, the glint of recognition in his eyes complimenting his confident smirk.
"And…action!" Luke shouts to the tune of the clapperboard.
"Captain Cilan!" Ash shouts, pointing aggressively at the mustachioed villain. "Release Princess Yuria at once!"
"Pika!" he adds; crouched on all fours, his cheeks spark with electricity.
"And why would I release her!" Cilan sneers. Stomping his foot down on the edge of his ship, he leers down at would-be heroes. "The princess holds the secret to finding the treasure!"
"Someone as wicked as you could never get their hands on the treasure!" Ash retorts. Glowering, he thrusts his arms out with a command of: "Pikachu, use Electro Ball!"
"Pikachu Pikapi!" he shouts. Leaping into the air, Pikachu performs a series of somersaults as he gathers an immense amount of electrical energy at the tip of his tail. Forming the Electro Ball, he doesn't hesitate to fire it at Captain Cilan and his crony.
"Pansage, use Solar Beam!" Cilan demands. "Show them their heroism is for naught!"
Gathering a sphere of energy in his hands, with the sun shining bright above them, Pansage is able to fire a Solar Beam near-instantaneously.
The Solar Beam collides with the Electro Ball, the point of impact forming an umbrella of energy. However, the Solar Beam appears too much as it not only shatters the Electro Ball, but assaults Ash and Pikachu as well.
Ash and Pikachu shout out in pain, obscured from sight by the resulting clouds of smoke.
Zorua-as-Princess Yuria opens her mouth as, off-screen, Iris gasps. Glancing down at her script, Iris lends her voice to the damsel. "Oh no! Sir Ash!"
Once the smoke clears, Ash and Pikachu are on the ground. Battered as they are, they're in no condition for further battling.
"Have you given up?" Cilan jeers. "Your Pokémon Knight days are over! Princess Yuria - and the treasure she protects - shall be mine forevermore!"
Captain Cilan throws down a smoke bomb, the ensuing black mist obscuring him, his Pansage, and Princess Yuria from sight.
"Sir Ash, help!" Princess Yuria cries out.
Grimacing, Ash struggles to his feet to no avail. Hapless, a bead of sweat dripping down the side of his face, he stares at the black smoke with a determined glare.
Luke keeps the camera trained on Ash's face for a few short moments more before nodding his head, satisfied.
"Cut!" he shouts.
Ash jumps to his feet immediately, Pikachu climbing up his trainer to rest on his shoulder. Given the special material with which was used to create the smoke bomb Cilan had, it doesn't take long for nature's brisk winds to disperse it.
Cilan, Pansage, and Zorua-as-Princess Yuria remain on the ship as Luke, Iris, Ash and Misty congregate before the stairs leading up to the boat.
"People, that was amazing!" Luke cheers. "Great! Now, let's move on to the scene where the Pokémon Knight gets trained by the legendary Dragon Master."
With their course set, it doesn't take long for them to reconvene in the nearby woods. A tree, tall and mighty, serves as the backdrop for the scene. Standing in a patch of dirt surrounded by greenery, Iris and Axew face off against Ash and Pikachu.
Iris wears a simplistic cream-colored robe, an orange sash tied around her middle. On her brow sits a silver and red headpiece: two prongs of silver are separated by an ornate ruby jewel.
"Action!" Luke shouts to the tune of Golett using a clapperboard, 7-1 written on it.
"Hear me, Pokémon Knight Ash!" Iris shouts. "If you want to defeat Captain Cilan, first you must battle and defeat Axew! The most powerful and cherished of my Dragon-Type Pokémon!"
"Axew!" he cries, voice low and dramatic.
"If it means saving Princess Yuria…" Ash says. He blinks, takes a deep breath. "Pikachu, use Electro Ball!"
"Axew, use Dragon Rage!"
At the same time Pikachu jumps into the air, electricity gathering at his tail, a light blue orb takes shape inside of Axew's stomach. Pikachu fires off the Electro Ball the same time Axew unleashes a stream of blue and black energy in the shape of a dragon. The Dragon Rage not only decimates the Electro Ball, it continues on its journey, colliding with Pikachu. A plume of smoke appears and disappears.
"Pikachu!" Ash shouts.
Pikachu flies through the air, landing not in a heap, but gracefully and on all fours.
"Your Pikachu is finely trained." Iris remarks, her voice cool, clinical. "However, that's not enough. You're going to have to put your heart into the move. Your soul."
"My heart, huh." Ash muses.
"Attack me with all your might!" Iris demands. "You do wish to save Princess Yuria, do you not? Prove to me you're worthy of that which you seek!"
"More than anything!" Ash proclaims, sharing a glance with Pikachu. "Pikachu, show them what you're made of!"
Cheeks sparking, Pikachu spins around and fires off another Electro Ball the same time Axew uses Dragon Rage. The two attacks collide, but unlike last time, they appear evenly matched. Neither the Electric-Type nor the Dragon-Type move wishes to give an inch.
"Just a little more…" Ash says. "Pikachu, use Thunderbolt!"
Cheeks sparking once more, Pikachu brings down his arms close to his chest before unleashing one of the most powerful Electric-Type attacks. The bolt of yellow electricity makes contact with the Electro Ball. When it does, it serves to increase the Electro Ball's power, the sphere growing in size.
An explosion rocks the immediate area, the two attacks dissipating into plumes of gray smoke. Ash lifts an arm to his face, closing his eyes to shield them from the smoke. Pikachu does much the same, hunkered low to the ground.
When the smoke clears, it reveals that Iris and her Axew have vanished from sight. Nonetheless, her voice soon becomes audible, carried by the wind.
"Sir Ash," she begins. "I have now seen what truly lies within your heart. Continue on your course and you will attain the strength you need to rescue Princess Yuria."
Ash and Pikachu share an exuberant high-five while Iris watches on, sitting a few paces behind Luke, the others and his equipment.
"Cut!" Luke says upon ending the recording. "Awesome work! We're really on a roll; all we have left is the scene where Sir Ash encounters Water Master Misty and the scene where the two of them defeat Pirate Captain Cilan!"
It didn't take long for this intrepid crew to make their way to their next destination.
"It's beautiful!"
With that joyful cry, Misty becomes entirely enamored with the cascading torrent of water dropping down into the nearby stream.
"So pretty!" Iris agrees.
"Axew!"
"Sorry it's not quite as impressive as the drawing." Luke says, even bowing his head. "There aren't many waterfalls around and this is the best I could do on such short notice."
Not Misty nor any of her friends are perturbed by this information.
"This is gonna be amazing!" Misty cheers, handing Marill over to Ash without preamble. "I can't wait to get started! Hey Iris, do you think you could help me with my hair?"
"Your hair?!" Iris exclaims, as Misty is already dragging her somewhere out of sight of the boys. "I mean, I guess I can try?"
"Nonsense!" Cilan shouts, giving Luke a reassuring grin. "The mark of any true director is making the best of what they have on hand! The best filmmakers in the world have worked with much less even in today's world!"
"I wouldn't sweat it!" Ash adds, wrenching a hand free to clamp Luke on the back. "A waterfall's a waterfall if you ask me! Besides, it looks like Misty really liked it!" a puff of smoke hurtles into the air from where the girls disappeared to, making him add, "Maybe a little too much?"
Misty and Iris return a few moments later: the former looking absolutely gorgeous in the simple attire Luke had sketched of the Water Maiden's ensemble, her stave hanging languidly from one hand; the latter looking like they just encountered a wild throng of Electrode.
"My word!" Cilan exclaims, looking positively gobsmacked. He rushes over to Iris, places a hand on her shoulder. "Iris, are you okay?"
Iris shakes her head, the dust and grime disappearing from her form with the ease of throwing a Poké Ball. "Yeah, I'm great Cilan!"
"But the grime?"
"Oh that?" Iris says. "I let out Emolga to help put flowers in Misty's hair, she let out Frillish to help us keep cool and, well…"
"Emolga does tend to get into fights." Cilan remarks.
Ash has a different tact in mind. "You look amazing, Misty."
A rosy flush immediately darkens Misty's cheeks. "Don't we have a movie to shoot?!"
"Indeed we do!" Luke says over the sound of Ash's warm laughter. He claps his hands twice. "Places, people! Places!"
It takes even less time for this merry band to acquiesce. Cilan hefts the boom microphone high, ready to capture any and all sound. Luke and his Golett prepare their equipment for taking video of the ensuing scene. Meanwhile, Iris, Axew and Zorua hover nearby, ready to lend any assistance they might provide.
As for Ash, Misty and Pikachu…
The two of them stand on opposite sides of the stream. Ash and Pikachu stand on one side, wooded area to their backs whilst Misty - and her Staryu - stand on the other, Luke, Cilan and the rest of their companions nearby.
What truly completes the scene is the waterfall. While it isn't quite as impressive as the one depicted in Luke's drawing, it's still very breathtaking. It bears nature's quiet, implacable strength, dropping down into the stream. The waterfall's roar, low and steady, is mesmerizing.
But to Ash Ketchum, nothing is quite as captivating as the sight of his girlfriend.
Misty Waterflower.
His next breath leaves him in a quiet sigh.
Just like Iris before her, she's dressed in understated attire. Outfitted in dark blue robes, she has the makeshift staff firmly in hand. And her hair, a veritable crown of beautiful flames, is ornamented with an array of orange flowers.
Standing there, the waning sun still so glorious and bright, Ash is speechless. Standing there, with his girlfriend looking at him with tender confidence, Ash is breathless. Not for the first time, he's mesmerized by his girlfriend's - by Misty's - unassailable beauty.
Thus, with a smile on his face and resolve in his heart, he comes to a decision.
"Well, Pokémon Knight Ash," Misty says, tapping the bottom of her staff against the ground exactly once. "Care to battle?"
"That's the spirit!" Luke shouts, hands cupping his mouth. He sweat drops. "Maybe save the enthusiasm for when we actually start rolling?"
Misty laughs, rubbing the back of her neck. She recovers, staring down Ash.
"Alright…" Luke says, his Golett hovering with a clapperboard showing 9-1 written on it. His voice a hush, his present company manages to hear him. "And action, guys!"
"Pokémon Knight Ash!" Misty shouts, her Staryu gazing steadily ahead. "The Pokémon of this land have told me much about you and your actions! That your fair princess was kidnapped by the despicable Pirate Captain Cilan! Is that correct?"
Ash nods his head with subdued enthusiasm. "All he cares about is using Princess Yuria to find the Pallet Kingdom's treasure! He doesn't care about what happens to her!" he shakes his head, no acting necessary to bring the fire in his eyes to life. "I have to rescue her!"
"Pika Pikachu!" he cries in agreement, cheeks sparking. "Pikachu Pikapi Pika!"
"Hyah!" Staryu cries and Misty nods her head.
"Well said, Sir Ash." Misty remarks, bringing the top of her stave into her unoccupied hand. She taps it against her palm, almost rhythmically. "However! Pretty words will not be enough to save your princess."
"Pretty?!"
"I have heard that you've earned the recognition of the Dragon Master." Misty continues. "That is not an easy feat; her will and her Pokémon are a treacherous mountain."
"She said that I'd only be able to save her if I put all my heart into it." Ash says. He looks down at his hand, a closed fist, before looking back to Misty. "No matter what, I will save Princess Yuria!"
Misty nods, gripping her staff in her hands. "Though you may have bested Iris and taken her words to heart, there lies one last challenge in front of you before you can defeat Cilan and save your princess."
"One last challenge?" Ash repeats with furrowed brow.
Misty smirks, dropping her staff to hold in one hand. "Your last challenge, Sir Ash, stands before you."
Ash stares at Misty, uncomprehending for a moment before realization sinks in. With realization, Ash returns the smirk. "If you're as strong as Iris, Princess Yuria won't have anything to worry about."
"Confident." Misty remarks. "You will find my Pokémon up to the task."
Pokémon Knight Ash and Water Master Misty, as well as their Pokémon, Pikachu and Staryu, stare at each other in silence across the expanse of their makeshift battlefield for a time.
Ash is the first to act, initiating the first move.
"Pikachu, use Thunderbolt!"
"Staryu, dodge and use Water Gun!"
"Pikachu!" he shouts. Cheeks sparking with electricity, his entire body becomes engulfed in brilliant yellow energy. Rearing back on his hind legs, he unleashes the Thunderbolt directly for Staryu.
An attack that Staryu has no intention of letting land. Springing away from the spot he occupied just before the Thunderbolt lands, Staryu prepares a counterattack. Its topmost point bending forward, Staryu releases a spiral of crystal clear blue water.
And unlike the Thunderbolt, the Water Gun hits its mark.
The Water Gun collides with Pikachu, the force of the blast sending him back a few paces. Despite this, Pikachu is relatively unharmed, albeit soaking wet.
"Use Thunderbolt again!"
"Pikachu!" he cries, shaking himself free of water first. Cheeks sparking with electricity, Pikachu unleashes another bolt directly for Staryu. And this time, as the electricity arcs through the air, it hits its target.
"Staryu!"
The Pokémon in question convulses as lines of yellow crisscross its form. Even when subjected to the pure might of a super-effective attack, Staryu stands strong.
"The Pokémon were right." is all Misty says.
"Your Staryu's amazing, too!" Ash remarks.
Misty barks out a chuckle at that. She sobers up, thrusting her free hand out. "I believe this battle has gone on long enough. Staryu, finish this bout with your Ice Beam!"
"I couldn't agree more!" Ash says with a nod. He shares a glance with Pikachu, one hand clenched in a fist. "Pikachu, you use your Iron Tail!"
"Hyah!"
"Pikachu Pikapi!"
Their respective Pokémon cry as they prepare their attacks. Jumping into the air, Pikachu's tail glows white then silver; when it catches the sun, the effect is nearly blinding. Meanwhile, crystals of ice gathering on and around Staryu's form, it gathers a light blue orb of energy in front of its shining red jewel.
Giving another cry, Pikachu performs a somersault, ready to bring his Iron Tail down on Staryu whilst Staryu fires off the Ice Beam, two interlocking beams of light blue. When the Iron Tail meets the Ice Beam, an explosion of smoke erupts.
The smoke lasts for but a second, revealing Pikachu and Staryu in the field in front of Misty. The two are battered and panting - Staryu's jem flickering with light - but still standing.
"Princess Yuria is fortunate to have such a devoted knight." Misty murmurs thoughtfully.
Ash's heart jerks out of place, a blush on his face for a moment then gone. "I guess…this battle is a draw?"
"A draw." Misty agrees with that same wondering tone of voice. She clears her throat, smiles at Ash. "You have proven yourself time and again, Sir Ash! Press forward, and you and I will be able to save Princess Yuria without issue!"
"Thank you, Mistress Misty!" Ash says with an earnest grin. Just as he drops into a bow… "Wait, you and I?"
"Pirate Captain Cilan is a notorious criminal." Misty explains. "His tactics are unscrupulous and his Pokémon crafty and powerful. Should we work together…"
"Work together?"
Silence, as ordained by the script, fills the air. Luke focuses the camera first on Misty's face before moving onto Ash's. Bringing the camera out to show both of them, Luke records the sound of the waterfall for a few seconds then declares, "Cut!"
"That was amazing!" Luke cheers once all of them reconvene. "This picture is shaping up to be my best one yet! Come on guys, let's keep this energy going! To the forest cave!"
His new companions cheer in agreement, Cilan's voice loudest among them.
With their backs to the forest cave, Ash, Cilan, Misty and Iris and their Pokémon listen as Luke explains the scene to them.
"The big final scene is where Ash and Misty defeat Cilan and rescue the princess!" he says, flanked by his Golett and Leavanny. "It's important that the camera keeps rolling, so don't stop no matter what!"
"Got it!" Ash says.
"But what happens if we mess up?" Iris asks.
"Would we have to start the scene over?" Misty adds.
"Should that happen," Cilan says. "Then we improvise!"
"Improvise?" Ash repeats, turning to his friend. "What's that mean?"
"It's when you make the lines up off the top of your head and act as you go along!" Cilan explains. "Sometimes, the most interesting and memorable parts of a movie are those unplanned moments when the improvised dialogue and actions have absolutely nothing to do with the script!"
"Yeah?" Ash says, interest piqued.
"Yeah!" Iris says. "Sounds like lots of fun, too!"
"I don't think you guys have anything to worry about!" Luke asserts, turning to his Leavanny then his Golett. His Golett produces a clapperboard from a sack of materials sitting nearby. On it is inscribed 10-1.
His new companions quickly get into positions. Ash and Misty hiding for dramatic effect, Cilan, Pansage, and Zorua-as-Princess-Yuria outside the cave entrance and Iris near Luke, ready to provide voice lines to Princess Yuria.
"And…" Luke says, his focus razor-sharp on his camera. "Action!"
"Well!" Pirate Captain Cilan cries after hearing the clack of the clapperboard. "As I thought! The princess' power has opened the door to the treasure cave!" He roughly grabs a hold of the ropes keeping Princess Yuria bound. "Now let's go inside!"
"Hold it!"
Cilan stops, perturbed by the new arrival. Ash stands atop a rock outcropping not too far from the treasure cave. And standing a few paces away on a different rock outcropping, is Misty.
"That's far enough, Pirate Captain Cilan!" Misty shouts.
The two of them jump off their rock outcroppings with their Pokémon - Ash and Pikachu, Misty and Staryu. They land in a crouch right in front of Cilan before rising to their feet.
"Sir Ash!" Iris lends her voice to Princess Yuria. "And…Water Master Misty?!"
"You!" Cilan sneers. "How did you know?"
"I found you because Princess Yuria's heart and mine are connected!" Ash says. "So! Release her at once!"
"Quit talking like a fool!" Cilan demands. "Now, Pansage, use Bullet Seed!"
"Pikachu, use Quick Attack!"
"Staryu, use Water Gun!"
Pansage puffs his cheeks up before unleashing a torrent of green baubles outlined in gold. The Bullet Seed is fast, but Pikachu's Quick Attack is faster. The electric rodent manages to evade each barrage of Pansage's Bullet Seed, even managing to ram directly into Pansage's chest.
The same cannot be said for Staryu. Staryu has the unfortunate experience of being struck by not one, but two different instances of Bullet Seed, the Water Gun a mere thought. Staryu stands strong, his gem flickering with light.
Pansage is sent staggering back, wincing.
"Impressive." Cilan remarks. "But we won't be bested so easily! Pansage, use Solar Beam!"
Pansage brings his arms high above his head. Channeling a ball of yellow energy between his paws, it doesn't take long for Pansage to release a powerful beam of golden energy. And although the day is reaching its twilight, no one could deny that it's the most powerful display of Solar Beam they've seen all day.
Ash is quick to retaliate.
"Pikachu, use Energy Ball with spirit!"
"Staryu, you lend your help with Ice Beam!"
"Pikachu!" he cries, spinning around thrice and leaping into the air, electricity radiating off of him all the while. A sphere of arcing golden light gathering at his tail, Pikachu performs a mid-air somersault and fires the Electro Ball directly for the Solar Beam.
"Hyah!" it cries, crystals of ice gathering on its form, quickly firing two interlocking beams of light blue to join the Electro Ball.
When the three attacks collide, it becomes clear that the Electro Ball and Ice Beam are evenly matched with the Solar Beam.
Ash and Misty are undeterred.
"Thunderbolt!"
"Water Gun!"
A bolt of electricity erupts from Pikachu's form the same time Staryu releases a spiral of water from its topmost limb. The effect the two attacks have on the Electro Ball and Ice Beam is immediate, powering them up just enough to overwhelm Pansage's Solar Beam. The Solar Beam shatters, allowing the intensified Electro Ball and Ice Beam to move unhindered through the air.
In light of such powerful attacks headed directly for them, Cilan and Pansage are left with little recourse. They cling to each other in fright just as the Electro Ball and Ice Beam hit.
The air becomes suffused with a light mist from the Ice Beam and beams of electricity race up high into the sky, a result of the Thunderbolt-powered Electro Ball. A furious crash of thunder pierces through the air.
Ash and Misty look on with triumph, finding Cilan and Pansage as blackened ice sculptures. The ice shatters, leaving them twitching on the ground.
"We did it!" Ash cheers, sharing a high five with Pikachu.
"Pikachu Pikapi!" he cries. "Pika Pikachupi!"
"Thank you, Staryu!" Misty says, patting her Pokémon gingerly on the head.
"Hyah!" it cries, striking a dramatic pose.
"Are you hurt, Princess?" Ash asks while Misty busies herself with guarding Cilan and Pansage. He goes over to join her, untangling the ropes leaving her imprisoned. "It's awful what that Captain Cilan tried to do!"
"I'm completely fine!" Zorua-as-Princess-Yuria says with the assistance of Iris' voiceover. "Thanks to you, my fearless knight."
"Of course!" Ash cries. Once he frees Zorua-as-Princess Yuria from the ropes, he tosses them over to Misty. Misty doesn't waste any time, quickly using the ropes to bind Cilan and Pansage both. "The Kingdom of Pallet would be lost without her princess."
Zorua-as-Princess-Yuria only smiles.
"Princess," Ash is saying, his voice dropping to a whisper. Once Misty is confident that Cilan and his Pokémon won't go anyway should they awaken, she rejoins Ash. Nevertheless, she leaves Staryu to watch over them. "If you don't mind, what exactly is the treasure you're protecting?"
"It drove Captain Cilan to kidnap you for it." Misty says. "I'll admit, I'm a bit curious too."
Zorua-as-Princess-Yuria looks between her two saviors before letting out a sigh. "You're right. Not only have you saved me, but you've captured a known criminal. Sir Ash, you've been a loyal companion for many moons. And Mistress Misty, you and Mistress Iris have protected so many people and Pokémon alike."
There's a tense moment, Princess Yuria looking between Ash and Misty before making off for the treasure cave with only a clipped command of, "Follow me."
Ash and Misty oblige.
Luke records the three of them making their way through the darkened interior until a soft golden glow begins to make itself known and…
"Whoa…"
"This is the treasure?!"
A nod. "Behold what my family has spent their entire lives protecting!
"Behold!" Princess Yuria commands, sweeping an arm in a wide arc to indicate the trove of riches laid out before them. "What my family has spent their entire lives protecting!"
"It's incredible!" Pokémon Knight Ash remarks. "And to think: the treasure was so close!"
"It's reassuring to know this won't fall into Pirate Captain Cilan's hands." Water Master Misty adds.
Princess Yuria nods. "In recognition of your loyalty and admirable deeds, each of you may choose an item to take with you. But move quickly, we musn't linger."
Ash and Misty share a glance, the glint from the treasure reflected in their eyes.
The scene changes to the exterior of a grand brick façade. Princess Yuria stands on the steps leading into the chapel. As for her champion, Ash kneels before Yuria with his Pikachu. The sun is setting, lending a rich ambiance to the scene.
"I must thank you once again for your aid, Sir Ash." Princess Yuria says, giving a bow of her own. "The Kingdom of Pallet must count her lucky stars every night to have such a brave defender of what is good and just."
"Thank you, Princess Yuria." Ash says. He has a shield upon his back: the surface silver and inlaid with gold. "And I swear, as long as you rule and I have Pikachu by my side, we will always protect you!"
Princess Yuria smiles; an utterly mystifying sight.
"Quite." she says. "And together, let us do our best to make a brighter future for the Pallet Kingdom in this Pokémon world."
The camera pans out then, showing Dragon Master Iris and Water Master Misty observing from afar. They watch carefully, both of them basking in the satisfaction of seeing justice prevail. The sapphires embedded in Misty's staff - a new addition - certainly doesn't damper her high spirits.
The screen fades to black, leaving the audience with naught but their thoughts.
Judging by the way every single person inside the theater not only rises to their feet, but engages in rapturous applause, their thoughts are nothing but positive.
Ash, Misty, Cilan, Iris, Zorua-as-Princess-Yuria, Luke and his Leavanny and Golett behold the unfolding scene with pleased smiles. Ash gives Pikachu a small high-five, Misty and Iris share a smile with their Pokémon and Cilan adjusts his bowtie, both hands to the sides.
As the crowd begins to filter out of the theater to make their way home, Ash and his friends stand with Luke and Mister Matthews outside the theater. They stand a few paces away from the entrance and the departing crowd.
Currently, the theater's marquee displays an image of the fiendish Captain Cilan, the heroic Sir Ash and the lovely Princess Yuria.
"Wow, talk about a lucky break!" Luke remarks, Zorua transforming back from Princess Yuria in a flash of pink light. "The film turned out great, thanks to you!"
Cilan gives an agreeable hum, nodding his head. "An innovative motion picture teeming with lots of herbs and spices!"
"It was amazing!" Misty agrees. "And it helped me make my Staryu just a little bit stronger!"
Iris hums, as if she had partook in a most delicious dish. "I had no idea making a movie could be so much fun!"
"Though," Mister Matthews begins, turning to Luke. "I must say, I wish the battle scenes were a bit more exciting."
Luke's shoulders slump at the criticism, cupping his chin in thought. "Hmm, yeah."
"I know! Luke, why don't you enter the Nimbasa Battle Tournament!" Mister Matthews suggests.
Luke hums in polite intrigue.
Ash breathes, a quick exhalation. His eyes glimmer, a smile soon pulling at his lips. "There's gonna be a battle tournament in Nimbasa City?"
"I suppose you could say that." Mister Matthews answers, his eyes firmly on Luke. "If you enter, I'm sure the experience will help you learn how to shoot all kinds of exciting battle scenes!"
"Okay, I'll do it!" Luke says with a determined nod and clenched fists.
"Hey, I think I'm gonna enter that tournament, too!" Ash says with a similar manner.
"Yeah, me three!" Iris shouts, lifting her arms high.
"I'll be Entrant Number Four!" Cilan declares.
"Sounds like a great time!" Misty adds. "It's been too long since I've been able to stretch my battling muscles!"
"We're all going to enter?!" Luke exclaims, a touch incredulous. "This is gonna be a blast!"
Cilan raises a hand, wagging a finger back and forth exactly once. "Keep in mind: that also means we're all going to be rivals!"
"Cool!" Iris says. "Can't wait!"
"I'm so psyched!" Ash cheers, adjusting the brim of his hat.
"Pikachu!"
"This'll be a great experience, Marill!" Misty says.
"Marill Marill!" she cheers, practically vibrating in her trainer's arms.
"Then let's get moving so we can enter right away!" Cilan says.
"Right!" his four companions cheer.
Mister Matthews laughs, a full-bellied guffaw. "Ah, you youngsters and your energy."
"Thanks a lot, Mister Matthews!" Luke says, addressing the projectionist before turning to his newfound friends. "It'll get dark pretty soon, so let's rest up at the Pokémon Center!"
"An excellent idea!" Cilan praises, giving a snap of his fingers. "After all, it would be unwise for us to go trudging through the dark."
Iris yawns, big and loud. Axew mimics his trainer, his eyes drooping. "Honestly, I couldn't agree more! Being an actress sure was fun, but it's really exhausting, too!"
"Then let us retire together." Cilan suggests, offering an arm to Iris. "What do you say, ma chérie?"
Immediately, Cilan's and Iris' eyes go wide.
"I-I mean," Cilan stammers, wrenching his arm away as if Iris intended to use a Flamethrower on him. His entire face is dominated by a fierce blush. "What I meant to say is it is rather late and who knows if Nurse Joy has any available rooms at the moment?" he brings his arms to his side, stands ramrod straight, and drops into a deep bow. "I should go to the Pokémon Center at once!"
Cilan doesn't linger a moment more, sprinting away from Iris and the others like a supercharged Zebstrika.
"The Pokémon Center?" Iris repeats, something distant in her tone. She shakes her head, the faintest trace of red on her face. "Right, the Pokémon Center! That's a great place to rest!"
She takes off in the direction Cilan had gone, albeit at a much slower pace.
Mister Matthews returned to the inside of the theater to take care of some last minute matters sometime during the exchange. Luke, being a new acquaintance to the group, isn't sure what to make of it. He stares after Cilan and Iris, blinking.
"What's going on with Cilan and Iris?" Ash murmurs; dense as he's oft to be, an idea is already taking root in his mind.
But for Misty, such a display not only waters the idea, it leaves her drowning in produce.
"That's a very good question." Misty says with a knowing grin.
Luke yawns then, looking at Zorua. "It's getting late; we should check in with the Pokémon Center to make sure there are rooms available."
Zorua barks, the two soon going off in the direction of Cilan and Iris.
"He's right." Misty says, stretching her arms above her head. "It's getting late and I'm so tired. What do you say, Ash. Ash?"
Misty looks over to Ash, finding an unusually thoughtful expression on his face.
"Ash?" she says again.
"Misty." Ash replies, something in his tone unwinding a cord of tension from around her heart. "Do you remember what you said? Back when Iris and Excadrill were trying to be buddies again?"
It takes a while for Misty to find her voice. "I remember. Is there a reason you're bringing this up now?"
Ash takes to rubbing the back of his neck. "No reason, it's just…" he pauses, the tiny smile on his face one of the most incredible she's ever seen. "I think I'm ready to talk about what happened. You know, in Eindoak Town."
In spite of her tired state, the words hit her like a Thunderbolt would a Gyarados in a swimming pool during a Rain Dance.
"But that'll have to wait until tomorrow, huh?" Ash continues, unabashed as he lets out a huge yawn. "Today was a pretty busy day and I'm tired."
"You're right about that." Misty says, just a little bit petulant. While sleep does sound appealing and she does feel ready to collapse, she also feels wide awake following Ash's confession. "Okay Ash, I'll hold you to that."
Ash laughs at that, holding his hands up. "C'mon Mist, I wouldn't mention it if I didn't plan on telling you!"
"Your mouth has a way of working faster than your brain." Misty retorts, stepping forward to poke Ash in the forehead.
Ash only laughs.
Ash and Misty make their way over to the Pokémon Center. In her sleep-deprived state, surrounded by her boyfriend and two of her closest friends, Misty cannot help but laugh along with him. The two engage in quite a bit of childlike tomfoolery. The couple take to poking at each other; Ash with both his hands, Misty with one of hers.
Once they reach the Pokémon Center, they have to lean on each other to stay standing.
"Oh my!"
That cry precludes Nurse Joy and Audino rushing over to them.
"Are you two alright?"
"Audino!"
"Yeah Nurse Joy," Ash answers with a lopsided grin. "We're just fine."
"It's been a long day." Misty says. "That's all."
The two share a conspiratorial smile at that. They share one last laugh, helping Nurse Joy help them reunite with their friends. After that, the five humans and their Pokémon soon drift off to sleep.
"One little Pikachu did what?!"
Audino Town's Officer Jenny had braced herself for whatever information she might discover during her investigation. If there was one thing her tenure as a police officer has taught her, it's that you must be prepared to face all manner of terrifying oddities. Especially when a fiendish criminal organization is involved.
So, she knew that she would discover something.
She just didn't think that it would happen so soon nor how that something would be quite so…outlandish.
The Officer Jenny stationed in Viridian City nods her head. "I thought the same thing! Riding up to the Pokémon Center on my motorcycle, I didn't expect to make it just in time for the fireworks!"
The Officer Jenny from the Audino Town hums deeply, writing the testimony down on her notepad. "You're saying the entire Pokémon Center?"
At that, Viridian City's Officer Jenny turns a tad sheepish. She lifts a hand to the back of her neck, letting out a nervous chuckle. "Honestly, I didn't see anything that happened. Everything I told you, I heard from the Nurse Joy there."
"Must've been quite the experience." The Audino Town's Officer Jenny remarks, mostly to herself.
"It was!"
"And how does Team Rocket factor in?"
In light of the question, Viridian City's Officer Jenny launches into a summary of the events. How she had assisted a much younger Ash Ketchum in getting medical aid for his Pikachu. How a trio of agents from Team Rocket - Jessie, James and a talking Meowth - sought to pilfer a plethora of Pokémon from the Pokémon Center. How a group of Pikachu helped by not only unleashing several volts upon the dastardly agents, but supercharged Ash's Pikachu, giving him that last bit of energy needed to revitalize him and grant him the electricity required to send the Team Rocket Trio packing.
"Interesting." Audino Town's Officer Jenny says. She maintains eye contact over videophone. "So, just to make sure I understand, these operatives from Team Rocket wanted to steal Pokémon from the Pokémon Center and were stopped when a group of Pikachu worked together with Mister Ketchum and his Pikachu. Is that everything?"
"The important parts, anyway."
"Thank you, sir." Audino Town's Officer Jenny says mildly, giving her fellow officer a salute. "This has proven most valuable."
"Glad to assist a fellow officer, sir." Viridian City's Officer Jenny says with a salute. She falters, frowning as she lowers her arm. "Although…"
"Something wrong?"
"I mean no disrespect," Viridian City's Officer Jenny is quick to say. "But why is a member of the Unovan Police Force looking into this? It happened so long ago. Not to mention, the perpetrators of this crime are nothing more than common criminals."
"They're part of Team Rocket!" Audino Town's Officer Jenny asserts without heat.
"Indeed, but they've never succeeded in doing anything substantial." Viridian City's Officer Jenny says. "Jessie, James and their talking Meowth have mostly just served to annoy the local Kantonian populace."
"I'm not sure I can say the same here." Audino Town's Officer Jenny says, memories of that day still fresh and bright. "Just recently, Team Rocket kidnapped several Audino from their trainers."
"You think these three were involved?" Viridian City's Officer Jenny asks.
Audino Town's Officer Jenny sighs. "Not them specifically; I know Team Rocket is involved. I discovered a large symbol on the floor of their hideout long after all the Audino were safely returned back to their trainers."
Viridian City's Officer Jenny nods, eyes widening slightly in realization. "You think they'll strike again?"
Audino Town's Officer Jenny nods. "Ineffectual or not, Team Rocket has made their presence known. For all I know, this might be their only criminal exploit."
"And if it's not?"
"I'd like to be prepared."
Audino Town's Officer Jenny's Herdier barks, steel in its eyes.
"I understand." Viridian City's Officer Jenny says. "In that case, I'll be more than happy to help. However, I don't think you have anything to worry about. From what I've heard, Mister Ketchum and Miss Waterflower were always able to deal with Team Rocket whenever they showed up."
"That's reassuring." Audino Town's Officer Jenny remarks with a genuine smile. "Should Team Rocket show up again, I know exactly who to call."
The two officers share a smile.
They move onto less intense topics after that, discussing family matters, the local delicacies and landmarks of Kanto and Unova. Soon, they bid each other farewell, promising to catch up again under more favorable circumstances.
The Audino Town's Officer Jenny stares at the darkened videophone in silence. Running the conversation over in her head, she shifts her attention to her notepad featuring the news articles about Team Rocket's multi-regional exploits.
"Team Rocket," she murmurs, writing a line through the headline about the Viridian City Pokémon Center explosion. "What are you plotting, I wonder?"
Originally Added: October 13th, 2023.