Hey guys! Just wanted to let you know the next chapter is coming this Thursday.
I hope you guys will indulge me for adding some of my personal head canon into the first scene. I try to stick to canon, but this is one change I felt didn't alter things too much.
This chapter title is based on the song from Trapt.
To all of you who read, follow, favorite, and review this story, thank you all! Your interest in this story fuels my motivation. I hope you enjoy this chapter.
As the four trainers settled around a cluster of trees, seeking refuge from the afternoon sun that beat down on the grassy field below. Pikachu and Piplup rested by their trainers who were anxiously awaiting their recovery. Akari, cradling her Chimchar in her lap, turned to Ash with a thoughtful expression.
"You know," she began, "when Gary first mentioned you, the image I had in my head didn't quite match the reality." Her words piqued Ash's curiosity, drawing a surprised look from his face.
"You know Gary?" he asked, a spark of interest igniting in his eyes. "Did you see him when he came back? He left for Sinnoh the day before I did," Ash added, a hint of disappointment ringing his voice at the missed connection.
Brock perked up at the exchange, a knowing smile playing on his lips. Dawn tilted her head in confusion as the name held no meaning to her. She glanced between the others, silently seeking an explanation.
"Gary was helping out at Professor Rowan's lab from time to time," Akari explained, her voice laced with a hint of amusement as she reminisced. "He spent a lot of time assisting with evolution experiments, which is actually how we met. I haven't seen him return from his trip to Kanto, so he's probably out exploring the region right now." Her gaze drifted towards the north, where she imagined Gary might be exploring.
"Ah, that explains the Electivire, then!" Ash exclaimed, a wave of realisation washing over him. "He totally crushed me with it in our last battle. Said I shouldn't get cocky after conquering the Battle Frontier – that Sinnoh has a whole new level of strong Pokémon I haven't even seen yet." He scratched the back of his head sheepishly, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his lips. The competitive fire in his eyes flickered for a moment, a silent promise to himself to rise to the challenge.
Akari's head whipped around to face Ash, her eyes widening in surprise. "The Battle Frontier?" she gasped. "You conquered the entire Battle Frontier? That's incredible! It's a gruelling challenge that only the most skilled trainers can overcome. No wonder you were so determined to save Pikachu – he's clearly a valuable partner on your journey." A hint of curiosity flickered in her gaze. "Though, I must admit, it is a bit surprising to see an Elite Trainer like yourself travelling with only two non-evolved Pokémon."
This revelation also caught Dawn's attention. Her gaze flicked to Ash, her impression of him improving even more than she first thought. A hint of awe crept into her eyes as she looked at the seemingly unassuming trainer sitting before her.
Ash chuckled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. "Well, it wasn't exactly a walk in the park," he admitted. "But I wouldn't trade the experience for anything. It's all about getting stronger, you know?" He grinned, his competitive spirit shining through.
"Speaking of getting stronger," he continued, tilting his head at Akari's words, "I actually came to Sinnoh specifically to catch some new Pokémon with only Pikachu. Aipom ended up tagging along as a Stowaway." He gestured towards the energetic monkey resting on a tree branch besides Starly. "Aipom snuck aboard the boat from Kanto and he only made themselves known just before we made it here." A fondness flickered in his eyes as he spoke of his unexpected companion. "And about unevolved Pokémon..." He glanced down at Pikachu with a grin. "Sure, Pikachu can evolve, but I don't think either of us are quite ready for that just yet, are we buddy?" He nudged Pikachu gently, who responded with a weak but affectionate pika.
"Wait," Ash suddenly realised and turned back to Akari. "Aipom can evolve? I wasn't aware of that." he admitted.
Akari nodded. "That's right," she explained. "Aipom typically evolves when they master the move 'Double Hit.' It requires a lot of focus and coordination, but it unlocks a whole new level of power for them." She watched as Ash absorbed this information, a thoughtful crease appearing on his forehead.
Before Ash could delve deeper into the topic of Aipom's evolution, Dawn piped up, her voice filled with newfound excitement. "That explains Pikachu's incredible power! Even with Piplup's help, they were the ones who chased off Team Rocket and managed to hold back that giant robot for a while. Piplup couldn't do a thing, but Pikachu..." Her voice trailed off, replaced by a look of awe. "Only a truly strong Pokémon, maybe even an Elite-level one like yours, could have done something like that!"
Ash turned to Dawn, his initial surprise at Akari's revelation giving way to a thoughtful expression. He glanced briefly at Akari, then back at Dawn, a double-take escaping him. It seemed he noticed the similarity of the two girls. He opened his mouth to comment about it, then stopped himself, redirecting his focus to his original question. "This 'Elite' thing you guys keep mentioning," he began, addressing both Akari and Dawn. "Is that a specific term here in Sinnoh or something?"
Brock, who had been silently observing the conversation with an amused smile, finally chuckled. "Didn't anyone tell you, Ash?" he rumbled. "Beating the entire Battle Frontier isn't just a badge of honour – it qualifies you for the title of Elite Trainer. It's a pretty prestigious honour, reserved for only the most skilled trainers."
Ash's head whipped around to face Brock, his jaw dropping in disbelief. Shock flooded his features. "What?! No one ever mentioned that! I just did it because I wanted to challenge myself and get stronger," he exclaimed, a mixture of surprise and frustration tinge his voice. It seemed the weight of his accomplishment hadn't fully sunk in until that very moment.
Brock chuckled, shaking his head good-naturedly. "Seems there are a few gaps in your knowledge, Ash. No worries, though, that's what friends are for! Let Brocko give you the rundown." He settled back against the tree trunk as he explained.
"So, the trainer ranking system goes something like this. First, you gotta collect eight gym badges from across the region. That qualifies you to participate in the Regional League. If you make it, you become an Expert Trainer – basically, you've proven you're a cut above the average trainer."
A flicker of understanding crossed Ash's face. "Oh, right, that makes sense."
"Next level up is Ace Trainer," Brock continued. "This is for trainers who've reached the top four in a Regional League, or participated in three Leagues in a row. You actually became an Ace Trainer back in Hoenn at the Ever Grande Conference, which is probably why Scott recognized your potential and invited you to challenge the Battle Frontier. An Ace Trainer is one step below an Elite Trainer, see?"
Ash nodded slowly, a thoughtful frown creasing his forehead.
"Now, Elite Trainer," Brock said, leaning forward with emphasis. "This title is all about raw power and accomplishment. There are three ways to achieve it: winning a Regional League Championship, defeating an Elite Four member or a Champion in an official match, or – you guessed it – conquering the Battle Frontier. And that's exactly what you did, Ash." He grinned a hint of admiration shown clearly on his face.
Ash's eyes widened in realisation. A slow grin spread across his face, mirroring the spark of pride that ignited in Pikachu's. They exchanged a silent glance, a wordless communication that spoke volumes of their shared journey and unwavering determination. A surge of renewed energy coursed through Ash.
"That means I'm much closer to becoming a Pokémon Master than I even imagined!" he exclaimed, raising his fist triumphantly into the air. Pikachu, echoing his enthusiasm, let out a determined cry, "Pikapi Pikachu!"
As Ash's enthusiastic declaration echoed through the clearing, Piplup, who had been blissfully asleep through the entire conversation, startled awake. The sudden noise sent a jolt through him, and he rubbed his eyes comically with a tiny paw before tumbling off of Dawn's lap with a surprised squawk.
Brock's grin widened further as he stood up. "Well said, Ash! If you two got that much fire in your belly after your rest, I think you're more than ready to get back on your feet and head back to Professor Rowan's lab!" He reached down and offered Ash a hand up, his own spirit piqued by the young trainer's newfound resolve.
Akari noticed Piplup's sudden awakening and a smile played on her lips as she stood up. With a gentle click, she returned Chimchar to her Poké Ball. Seeing the movement, Dawn carefully scooped up a still-groggy Piplup, returning him to his Poké Ball with a soft, "Get some more rest, Piplup."
Akari then offered Dawn a hand up, a silent gesture of camaraderie. Dawn, touched by the gesture, accepted Akari's help with a grateful smile. "Thanks, Akari. I'm a bit sore, but Piplup took the brunt of it. He'll be fine though, I know it."
With everyone back on their feet and their Pokémon in their Poké Balls, the group decided it was time to continue their journey. Akari, remembering a nearby public phone booth, suggested they make a quick call to Professor Rowan to inform him of their adventure and their estimated time of arrival. The afternoon sun hanging high in the sky, casting the landscape in a bright glow as they set off, a newfound sense of camaraderie and shared purpose propelling them forward.
Their steps quickened as they approached the phone booth, a beacon of connection in the rural landscape. Akari stepped inside with the others following behind, dialling the familiar number of Professor Rowan's lab. With a deep breath, they launched into a detailed explanation of their day's events, weaving together the individual accounts of each trainer.
A moment later, Akari's expression softened. "Professor Rowan," she said, her voice carrying a hint of gratitude, "it's great that everything worked out. We're all a little shaken, but thankfully no one's seriously hurt."
Professor Rowan's voice seemed just as relieved as his voice crackled through the receiver. "Excellent news, Akari. I was quite concerned when I received word of the Team Rocket incident. I'm relieved to hear you've all managed to overcome this challenge."
"Thanks, Professor," Dawn chimed in with the others also nodding along in agreement.
"Of course," Professor Rowan replied, his tone warm and reassuring. He paused for a moment, then added, "Also, Ash, a package recently arrived from your mother. It's waiting for you here at the lab."
Ash's head snapped up, surprise flickering across his features. "Mom sent something? I wasn't expecting that..." A spark of curiosity ignited in his eyes, momentarily pushing aside the fatigue that weighed on him.
Their conversation about the previous encounter lingered in the air as they exited the phone booth. The afternoon sun, hanging high in the sky, casting bright light that lead the path leading back to the lab. Seizing the opportunity presented by the lull in their journey, the trainers, still buzzing with the adrenaline of their recent encounter, decided to formally introduce themselves.
One by one, they exchanged names and aspirations. When it was Brock's turn, a hint of pride as he announced he's a Pokémon Breeder. His statement drew a gasp from Dawn. "A Pokémon Breeder? That's amazing, Brock!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine curiosity. "This is the first time I've ever met one!"
Brock chuckled, scratching his cheek sheepishly. "Well, it's not a profession I expected so much passion when people hear about it. Actually," he continued, a playful glint in his eyes, "as soon as we get back to the lab, I might just whip up a batch of special Pokémon food. Perfect for keeping water-types energised."
Piplup, who had woken from his slumber after the phone call, perked up at the mention of food and waddled excitedly beside Dawn, his tiny flippers clapping in a joyful jig. Dawn giggled, watching his display of enthusiasm.
"You're one lucky Pokémon, Piplup," she cooed.
Walking besides them, Akari's hand drifted towards her Dive Ball, a thoughtful expression gracing her features. Perhaps, she mused, Brock's culinary expertise could extend beyond Piplup and could make some for Magikarp.
Their conversation flowed easily as they continued their walk towards the lab. The rhythmic chirping of Pokémon filled the air, a symphony of nature blending with the soft crunch of their footsteps on the gravel path. Suddenly, the distant rumble of an engine pierced the tranquil scene. It grew louder, rapidly approaching, until a sleek motorcycle emerged around a bend in the road. As it drew closer, they recognized the familiar figure of Officer Jenny at the helm.
"Ash!" she boomed, her voice carrying over the engine's purr as she slowed down to a stop beside them. Her bright teal hair flowed freely in the wind, and a warm smile creased her features.
"Hey, Officer Jenny!" Ash greeted, a wave of surprise washing over him. He wasn't expecting to see her again so soon.
Jenny's gaze swept over the group, lingering for a moment on Pikachu perched on Ash's shoulder. Relief softened her eyes. "I'm glad to see Pikachu's back," she said, her voice laced with relief.
"Thanks for the assist, Officer Jenny," Ash replied, offering a grateful smile. "Pikachu's doing great."
Brock took this opportunity to interject. With a lovestruck look that could melt steel, he sidled up to Officer Jenny and boldly reached for her hands. "And so is your beauty!" he exclaimed, hearts practically floating out of his eyes. "Your thoughtfulness knows no bounds! Thank you for helping Ash in his time of need."
Officer Jenny, momentarily speechless, blinked in surprise at Brock's attitude. A look of confusion flickered across her face. This elaborate display of gratitude wasn't quite the reaction she'd anticipated for simply doing her job.
"Sure?" Jenny finally managed, her voice laced with uncertainty. Helping people was second nature to her, but Brock's theatrics felt...strange. Was he thanking her, or...?
"Huh?" Akari and Dawn echoed in unison, their expressions mirroring Jenny's confusion, even Piplup chirped in a bewildered tone.
"And now," Brock continued, "I'm asking you to help me out in my hour of need. Because I need you!" He squeezed Jenny's hand with an intensity that made her wince internally.
Jenny's jaw dropped. Speech had deserted her entirely. She wasn't sure how to respond to this sudden, unwarranted declaration. Was he serious? A misunderstanding?
"Ash?" Dawn piped up, her voice barely a whisper. "What's the deal with Brock?" This drastic change in his behaviour was completely baffling.
Akari, her lips pursed in a thoughtful frown, considered explaining how Brock seemed to be womanising. However, a glance at Dawn's innocent face quickly squashed that thought. Some things were best left unsaid, especially to a young trainer like Dawn.
Ash let out a tired chuckle. "Nothing, not for him, anyway." he mumbled, offering a weak smile. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, mirrored his trainer's weariness with a small, listless pika.
Somehow, they managed to extricate themselves from the bizarre situation with Officer Jenny, the memory of Brock's theatrics lingering in the air like a half-forgotten dream. Relief washed over them as the familiar silhouette of Professor Rowan's lab emerged on the horizon.
With a quickened pace, they reached the lab and were greeted by Professor Rowan himself. His kind eyes crinkled at the corners as he surveyed the weary but determined trainers. "Welcome back," he said warmly. "It seems you've all had quite an eventful day."
A chorus of tired murmurs rose from the group in response. Professor Rowan chuckled knowingly, then gestured towards a table where a package sat neatly wrapped. "Here is the package, Ash. It seems to have arrived safety."
He carefully unwrapped the package, a sense of anticipation building in his chest. Finally, the paper yielded and the box opened, revealing a brand new outfit neatly folded within. "Wow," he breathed, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and delight. "Check out these new clothes!" He excitedly glanced at the contents: a fresh black jacket with a yellow stripe, Jeans, sturdy new shoes, a stylish bag, and a cool new red and black hat with a blue Poké Ball top symbol instead of his current green.
After Ash unpacked his new clothes, excitement crackled in the air. He wasted no time to head to a changing room, pulling on the fresh jacket and pants, slipping on the sturdy shoes, and topping it all off with the stylish hat. He grabbed the bag, slinging it over his shoulder, and admired his reflection in the window. The new outfit felt like a fresh start, a symbol of the adventures that awaited him in Sinnoh.
With a renewed sense of purpose, Ash headed to the lab's videophone and dialed his mom's number. Her face flickered to life on the screen, a wave of relief washing over her features as she saw her son safe and sound.
"Ash! Thank goodness you're alright," she exclaimed, her voice laced with concern. "We were worried sick after Professor Rowan called."
Ash chuckled sheepishly. "Sorry, Mom. We had a bit of a rough time, but everything's okay now. Thanks for the awesome new outfit, by the way! It's perfect."
"I'm glad you like it, honey," his mom replied, a warm smile gracing her lips. "It's good to hear you're all safe. Did you call Professor Oak to let him know what happened?"
Ash's eyes widened in realisation. He'd been so focused on his new clothes, he'd completely forgotten. "Oh no! You're right, Mom. I completely spaced on that. I'll call him right after we talk."
With a quick goodbye to his mom, Ash hung up the phone and turned to the others. "Professor Oak's next," he announced. "Let's all say hi."
Professor Oak's face materialised on the screen a moment later, his kind eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Ash, my boy! How are things in Sinnoh?" he boomed, his voice filled with enthusiasm.
Ash launched into a detailed account of their day's adventures, from the initial Team Rocket encounter to their unexpected detour with Akari. He described Pikachu's bravery, Brock's unexpected appearance, and Dawn's timely intervention. Akari and Dawn listened intently, adding their own details and observations when prompted.
As Ash finished his story, Professor Oak chuckled heartily. "It sounds like you've had quite the day, young man. I appreciate you telling me about your adventure. And hello there!" he added, his gaze shifting to Akari and Dawn. "So you two are Akari and Dawn, is it? Ash tells me you've both been a great help to him."
Akari, keeping up the picture of professionalism, offered a small bow. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Professor Oak. I'm Akari, Professor Rowan's assistant."
Dawn, bubbling with enthusiasm, mirrored Akari's bow. "And I'm Dawn! It's nice to finally meet you! I'm a new trainer, and I helped Ash find Pikachu earlier today."
Professor Oak beamed at them both. "A brand new trainer and an assistant to Professor Rowan, eh? Well met, young ladies! Keep up the good work, and don't hesitate to reach out if you ever need any advice. The world of Pokémon training is an exciting one, filled with challenges and rewards."
Akari and Dawn exchanged a smile, their faces glowing with determination. They both nodded their heads in unison, eager to embark on their own journeys and embrace the challenges that awaited them.
After Professor Oak's words of encouragement, a curious silence descended upon the group. The weight of his experience and the promise of future challenges hung heavy in the air. Suddenly, Dawn impulsively blurted out a question.
"Right, erm..." she began hesitantly, her voice laced with a mix of nervousness and excitement. "You're Samuel Oak, the one who makes Pokémon Haiku, right?"
The unexpected question sent a jolt through the room. Ash, Brock, Akari and Pikachu all stared at Dawn in stunned silence, while Professor Oak himself let out a hearty chuckle.
"Oh, indeed!" he boomed, wiping a tear from his eye. "Not many people recognize me from that venture. Most know me for my work in Pokémon science."
Dawn's face lit up with a radiant smile. "Amazing! I had no idea you and Ash were friends in the Pokémon Haiku sphere!" She turned to Ash, her eyes sparkling with newfound respect.
Ash, however, felt a bead of sweat roll down his temple. He offered a weak smile, scrambling to clarify the situation. "Actually, Dawn," he interjected, "Professor Oak isn't really known for Pokémon Haiku. He's more like... the leading expert in Pokémon science, just like Professor Rowan here."
Dawn's brow furrowed in confusion. "But... but on TV," she stammered, "whenever I see him, he's always reading these poems about Pokémon. They're kind of short and have a certain rhythm..."
A sheepish look washed over Ash's face. He scratched the back of his head, unsure how to explain the situation. Akari, witnessing the exchange, shared Ash's bewildered expression. This was the first time either of them had heard about Professor Oak's foray into Pokémon Haiku.
Professor Rowan, sensing the awkwardness was stalling the conversation, decided to intervene. "Well, on that note," he said with a chuckle, "perhaps Professor Oak and I could have a little chat we've been meaning to have." He gestured towards the front lobby.
With a silent understanding, the four trainers and Pikachu headed towards the lab's entrance. As they walked, they faintly heard Professor Rowan's voice, laced with good-natured amusement, reprimanding Professor Oak about his television appearances. Apparently, Professor Rowan wanted to be promoting Pokémon science– he seemed determined to steer Professor Oak away from his more whimsical style of promotion.
As the trainers and Pikachu exited the lab, they veered off towards the designated Pokémon area. There, Starly was perched on Aipom's head, the two engaged in a conversation with Piplup. The Pokémon chirped and chattered amongst themselves, seemingly oblivious to the trainers' arrival. Akari thought about bringing out her Pokémon, but has decided against it to give them more time to rest from their fight with Ariados.
Once they were a safe distance away from the professors' hushed discussion, Brock broke the silence. "Seems like Professor Oak and Professor Rowan have quite a history together," he mused, a thoughtful expression gracing his features.
Ash simply shrugged and offered a casual, "Guess so."
Dawn, however, couldn't contain her curiosity. "So," she chirped, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm, "what are you guys planning to do here in Sinnoh?"
Ash, a determined glint in his eyes, met her gaze. "Well," he began, puffing out his chest slightly, "I came here with a goal in mind: to compete in the Sinnoh League! And to do that, I'll need to collect eight gym badges."
Hearing this declaration, Brock perked up. He reached into his backpack and retrieved a travel guide titled "Exploring the Sinnoh Region." Flipping through the pages with ease, he finally landed on a specific section.
"According to this guide, the closest gym to Sandgem Town is located in Oreburgh City. However, Jubilife City lies directly on the route between here and Oreburgh, so that would be our first stop."
As Brock finished outlining their initial route, Dawn's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That's awesome!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with a newfound sense of purpose. "Can I come with you guys?"
The three trainers turned back to her, surprised by her sudden request. A questioning look flitted across their faces.
"I want to be the next Top Coordinator," Dawn explained, her voice brimming with determination. "And guess what? There's actually a Pokémon Contest happening in Jubilife City – my very first one!"
Ash's face instantly broke into a wide grin. "A Pokémon Contest? That sounds incredible, Dawn! Of course you can come with us! The more the merrier, I always say. Right, Brock?" He shot a glance at Brock, seeking confirmation. Pikachu, perched on his shoulder, mirrored his trainer's enthusiasm with a series of excited Pika-pika's.
Brock nodded in agreement. "Yeah, I think travelling together would be a great way to experience Sinnoh." he admitted, a smile gracing his lips.
"It looks like we get to spend some more time together as well, Pikachu," Dawn commented, reaching down to scratch Pikachu affectionately behind the ear. The loyal Electric-type Pokémon responded with a happy chirp, nuzzling his trainer's hand.
As they retrieved their Pokémon back into their Poké Balls, Akari spoke up. "Well, once Professor Rowan is finished with his conversation," she said, resting her hand on her hip, "we can give you a proper send-off."
Pikachu, however, remained perched on Ash's shoulder. Dawn couldn't help but notice this, her brow furrowing slightly. "Why didn't you return Pikachu to his Poké Ball?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.
Ash chuckled, giving Pikachu a friendly scratch behind the ears. "Nah," he replied, "Pikachu hates being cooped up inside his Poké Ball. He finds my shoulder much more fun, wouldn't you agree, buddy?" Pikachu responded with a confident chirp and a spark of electricity danced across his cheeks, confirming Ash's statement.
Professor Rowan then appeared, a hint of amusement lingering in his eyes as he approached the group. He'd clearly overheard their conversation. "Pokémon have just as many personalities as humans, Dawn," he explained, stopping beside them. "So you should expect such behaviour in the future."
"Thanks for everything, Professor," Ash said, offering a sincere bow of gratitude. "We truly appreciate your help and hospitality. It's time for us to head out now."
The doors of the lab slid open with a hiss, revealing a figure standing expectantly at the entrance. A jolt of surprise crackled through the group at the sudden appearance. It was the boy, clad in a striking Purple jacket, that they met earlier in the day.
Professor Rowan's eyes widened in recognition. "Ah! You are..." he trailed off, his voice laced with a hint of surprise. Akari, ever observant, couldn't help but wonder. Could this be a former trainer who'd embarked on his journey from this very lab? She strained her memory, searching for any recollection of the boy during her time as Professor Rowan's assistant, but nothing surfaced.
The boy, seemingly unfazed by the surprised silence, took a confident step forward. "The name's Paul," he announced, his voice firm and unwavering. "From Veilstone City. And you're Professor Rowan, I presume?"
Professor Rowan gave a curt nod. There was something about Paul that seemed to jog the Professor's memory. "Indeed," he finally replied.
Paul's gaze then shifted to Ash, a challenging glint flickering within. "I was waiting for him," he declared, gesturing towards Ash.
Ash blinked, momentarily thrown off guard by the unexpected encounter. "For me?" he blinked, unsure how to react.
"You've got three Pokémon now, right?" Paul continued, his voice devoid of any pleasantries. His gaze flicked down to Pikachu, perched confidently on Ash's shoulder. Pikachu, sensing the shift in atmosphere, mirrored Paul's intensity with a determined spark in its own eyes. "Let's battle."
A competitive fire ignited within Ash. "Sure! I'm ready!" he boomed, his voice brimming with confidence. "I'm on a journey to become a Pokémon Master, and that means taking on all challengers like you!" With a swift jump, Pikachu hopped off his shoulder. The loyal Electric-type Pokémon landed with a determined thud, his cheeks sparking with anticipation.
Professor Rowan cleared his throat. "Mhm! Off to the battle court in the backyard, then," he grunted, gesturing towards the well-maintained training area not yet visible from their position.
Reaching the designated area, Paul and Ash took their positions on opposite sides of the battlefield, a tense silence settling between them. Pikachu stood proudly beside Ash, his cheeks crackling with electricity. Seeing the challenger's steely resolve, Brock stepped forward. "I'll be the referee." he declared, taking charge of the situation.
"This is my first time seeing a real Pokémon battle!" Dawn exclaimed, her voice filled with wide-eyed anticipation as she perched herself beside the battlefield.
Ash, already strategizing his moves, turned to Dawn with a grin. "Then watch closely," he called out. "A battle like this is a million times more exciting to see in person than on TV!"
Paul, however, scoffed at Ash's enthusiasm. A smug look crossed his face as he muttered under his breath, a remark that didn't quite reach Ash's ears.
"What's so funny?" Ash demanded, whirling around to face Paul, his brow furrowed in confusion.
The smug look on Paul's face widened into a smirk. "Nothing," he drawled, his voice dripping with condescension. "Just thought you sounded a little... childish."
Ash's temper flared. "What was that supposed to mean?" he yelled, his voice laced with anger.
Ignoring Ash's outburst, Paul launched into an explanation of the battle rules, his voice devoid of warmth. "Just so we have things clear," he began, "this will be a three-on-three battle with no substitutions. We'll fight one Pokémon at a time, and the winner will then be returned, bringing in a new Pokémon each. The first trainer to secure two victories wins the whole thing. Understood?"
Ash, fuming but determined not to back down, gritted his teeth and nodded curtly. "Fine by me," he growled, reaching for a Poké Ball on his belt. "Starly, I choose you!" With a burst of light, Starly emerged from the Poké Ball, chirping excitedly at the prospect of battle.
Akari, observing from the sidelines, couldn't help but grimace at Ash's hasty choice. They both knew Paul has an Elekid – a natural counter to Ash's flying-type Starly.
Meanwhile, Paul mirrored Ash's action, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his lips. "Go, Starly. Standby for battle!" he commanded, sending out his own Starly. It seemed Paul intended to meet Ash's choice head-on, a test to see which trainer possessed the superior Starly. The two Starly circled each other in the centre of the field, their wings beating a steady rhythm in the warm afternoon air.
"I'll let you have the first move, Ash," Paul called out with a cocksure air, offering Ash the initiative. Confident in his own strategy, Ash readily accepted.
"Starly, use Quick Attack!" he commanded, his voice ringing out with determination. Starly, a blur of feathers and determination, launched itself at its opponent. With incredible speed, it struck the opposing Starly, knocking it off balance and sending it spiralling into a dive.
"It hit!" Dawn exclaimed, jumping on her feet in excitement, her eyes glued to the unfolding battle.
Professor Rowan, however, remained composed. "Indeed," he observed, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "A good start, but it seems the attack didn't inflict much damage." His words drew Dawn's attention, prompting her to turn towards him with a questioning look.
Akari chimed in with her own analysis. "Professor Rowan's right," she agreed. "That manoeuvre by Paul's Starly was likely a calculated one. By falling with the hit and taking the dive, it minimised the damage it received." Her explanation cast a new light on the situation, causing a frown to crease Dawn's brow. She hadn't considered that possibility.
"Starly, use Aerial Ace to climb up high!" Paul commanded, his voice sharp with urgency. His Starly wasted no time in obeying, its wings beating furiously as it propelled itself skyward. With a determined cry, it flew up towards Ash's Starly, striking it solidly underneath. Caught off guard by the manoeuvre, Ash's Starly tumbled through the air before regaining its composure mid-flight, chirping in pain.
"Wing Attack!" Ash called out, his voice a mix of determination and concern. Starly's wings glowed with a white light as it launched itself forward in a counterattack.
But Paul was ready. "Double Team!" he barked, his hand snapping out in a sharp gesture. His Starly responded instantly, creating a multitude of shimmering duplicates that filled the air. Ash's Starly, overwhelmed by the sudden influx of illusory birds, falters in its attack, its wings hovering uncertainly. Seeing his opportunity, Paul seized it. "Aerial Ace!" he yelled, his voice ringing with triumph. From above, the real Starly, hidden amongst the clones, dove down with incredible speed.
"Starly, watch out! They're above you!" Ash bellowed, his voice laced with panic. He desperately tried to warn his Pokémon, but it was too late. Paul's Starly, a blur in the sky, connected with Ash's Starly's back with a powerful Aerial Ace. The impact sent Ash's Starly spiralling downwards, landing with a heavy thud on the ground, its eyes swirling.
Brock stepped forward, his voice booming across the battlefield. "Starly is unable to battle! The first victory goes to Paul's Starly!" He raised a hand towards Paul in acknowledgement.
Ash carefully recalled his Starly. "Starly, return," he murmured softly, his voice tinged with sympathy. As the red light of the Poké Ball enveloped the small bird, Ash held the Poké Ball close, a determined glint flickering in his eyes. "Good job, Starly," he whispered. "You did your best. We'll get 'em next time."
Paul, however, remained unimpressed. He recalled his own Starly with a flick of his wrist, muttering into the Poké Ball with a frown, "Is that the best you've got?" before turning back to Ash.
"Is your battle style to cover up weakness with mettle?" he taunted, his voice dripping with condescension. "Alongside your lack of strategy, I pity any Pokémon caught by a lousy trainer like you." His words flew into the air, a cruel barb aimed at Ash's confidence.
"I choose you, Aipom!" Ash declared, flinging a Poké Ball with a determined flick of his wrist. Aipom emerged in a flash of red light, its tail swishing excitedly as it surveyed the battlefield. It seemed eager to prove itself after witnessing Starly's defeat.
Paul countered with his own choice. "Chimchar, stand by for battle!" he commanded, sending out his Pokémon. A fiery chimp, reminding Akari of her own, materialised from its Poké Ball with a fierce growl. Recognition flickered in Ash's eyes for a brief moment, but the thrill of the battle quickly eclipsed it.
He reached for his Pokédex, the handheld device whirring to life as it scanned Chimchar. Lines of data scrolled across the screen, the digital voice of the Pokedex giving trivia about Chimchar.
However, Paul couldn't resist another dig. "Interesting," he drawled, his voice laced with sarcasm. "I wonder if that info will help you beat Chimchar."
Ash, his temper flaring once more, snapped the Pokédex shut. "We'll see about that!" he growled, falling for Paul's provocation. He hasn't shown any patience so far, and Paul was clearly exploiting that weakness.
Determined to prove himself, Ash issued his first command. "Aipom, launch out a Swift!" he yelled. Aipom, its tail glowing with a soft light, whipped it back and forth with incredible speed. A barrage of star-shaped projectiles shot towards Chimchar, sparkling like a celestial storm.
Paul, however, remained calm. "Hit back with Ember!" he countered, his voice steady. Chimchar took a deep breath, its fiery spirit igniting within. It exhaled a wave of hot embers that met the incoming Swift attack head-on. The two attacks collided in a dazzling display of light and heat, the embers effectively neutralising the barrage of stars.
Ash gritted his teeth. He needed to think fast. "Focus Punch!" he called out, hoping to land a decisive blow. Aipom concentrated its energy, its fist glowing with a white light as it prepared to unleash a powerful punch.
"Get in close with the Flame Wheel!" Paul countered swiftly. Chimchar reacted with impressive agility, its body igniting in flames. It curled into a ball, transforming itself into a fiery wheel that spun rapidly towards Aipom. The unexpected manoeuvre caught Aipom off guard, disrupting its concentration as the flaming wheel slammed into Aipom with a loud impact, sending the monkey Pokémon flying through the air before it landed hard on the ground with a pained cry.
"What happened to the Focus Punch?" Dawn gasped, her voice laced with concern as Aipom crumpled to the ground. The sudden turn of events left her bewildered.
Professor Rowan, ever the patient teacher, explained once more. "Focus Punch is a powerful move, Dawn," he began, his voice calm and reassuring. "But it has a drawback. It takes a moment for the Pokémon to channel its energy and focus entirely on the attack. During this time, it leaves itself vulnerable to outside attacks." He gestured towards Aipom, who was slowly stirring on the ground. "If a Pokémon using Focus Punch is interrupted, it loses its concentration and has to start the entire process over again."
Akari chimed in with additional insight. "That's why Focus Punch is best used strategically," she explained. "Ideally, it should be used after their opponent uses a defensive move like Protect or Synthesis, when they are unlikely to attack. Trying to use a move like Focus Punch on a whim, without proper timing, can leave your Pokémon wide open, just like what happened to Aipom here."
"Pathetic move," he sneered, his voice dripping with condescension. "Learn to choose your attacks wisely." He turned towards Chimchar, his voice hardening with a predatory glint in his eyes. "Chimchar, get in close. Finish this." The fiery chimp let out a determined cry, its eyes fixated on the downed Aipom. However, Paul held off on issuing a specific attack command yet.
Sensing the danger, Ash scrambled to formulate a plan. "Aipom, get up quick!" he called out, his voice a mix of encouragement and desperation. "We need to create some space! Use a Double Team!" Aipom, with a valiant effort, responded to its trainer's command. Its form shimmered and split, creating a confusing array of identical Aipom clones that surrounded the real one. This tactic, while not foolproof, could potentially buy them precious time to strategize.
Paul, however, wasn't fooled for a second. He recognized the Double Team manoeuvre for what it was – a desperate stall tactic. "Don't let those illusions distract you, Chimchar," he commanded, his voice sharp with strategy. "Take them all out with Ember!" Chimchar unleashed a powerful torrent of flames, the fiery projectiles engulfing the Aipom clones in an instant. The real Aipom, caught off guard by the swiftness of the attack, yelped in surprise as a stray ember singed its fur.
Taking advantage of Aipom's momentary lapse in focus, Paul pressed his attack. "Scratch them quickly, Chimchar!" he barked. Chimchar, a blur of orange fur, propelled itself forward, its sharp claws extended and ready to strike. Aipom, still reeling from the Ember attack, found itself defenceless against the incoming assault.
Aipom, fueled by a surge of adrenaline, managed to make space from Chimchar's Scratch attack. With a burst of agility, it leaped high into the air, quickly getting away from the sharp claws.
"Use Focus Punch once more!" Ash called out, his voice laced with renewed hope.
Paul, however, was already prepared. "Flame Wheel like last time, Chimchar!" he commanded swiftly. Chimchar, well-drilled in its trainer's strategies, reacted instantly. Its body ignited once more, transforming it into a fiery wheel that rocketed towards the predicted landing spot of Aipom.
But Ash had learned from his previous mistake. "Jump once more, Aipom!" he yelled, his voice straining with urgency. Aipom, with an impressive display of athleticism, propelled itself upwards with another powerful leap using its arms for leverage. This time, the jump launched itself just before the spinning inferno of Chimchar's Flame Wheel crashed into it.
Seizing the golden opportunity, Ash roared, "Now! Hit it!" Aipom, suspended in mid-air, twisted its body with amazing nimbleness and unleashed its Focus Punch. The powerful attack connected squarely with Chimchar's back, sending a jolt through the Fire-type Pokémon. Both Pokémon hit the ground with heavy thuds, but it was Chimchar who lay motionless, its eyes swirling. Aipom, panting heavily but victorious, stood tall.
"Chimchar is unable to battle! The winner is Aipom!" Brock declared, raising a triumphant hand towards Ash's side of the field. The crowd erupted in cheers, the sound echoing through the arena. Dawn, ecstatic at the turn of events, jumped up and down, waving her arms in celebration. Akari, on the other hand, remained composed but a hint of impressed surprise flickered in her eyes. Aipom's tenacity and Ash's strategic adjustment with the Focus Punch had surprised even her.
Paul, however, remained undeterred by the setback. He recalled Chimchar with a flick of his wrist, muttering a harsh reprimand into the Poké Ball. "You're still letting me down," he growled, his voice laced with frustration.
Ash, on a high from the unexpected victory, beamed at Aipom. "Great work, Aipom!" he praised, returning the valiant Pokémon to its Poké Ball. He then turned to Paul, a newfound confidence radiating from his posture. "Looks like it's down to the wire, Paul. We're tied at one win each."
"Alright, Pikachu, it's all on you!" Ash declared, turning to his loyal companion. Pikachu, eager to battle, scurried out from besides Ash's legs and onto the battlefield. His electric cheeks sparked with anticipation as it met Paul's gaze, a silent promise of a fierce battle to come.
Paul remained silent, his face an unreadable mask. He reached down to his belt, selecting a Poké Ball with a practised ease. With a flick of his wrist, he sent it flying through the air. "Elekid, stand by for battle!" Paul commanded, his voice firm and unwavering. The light erupted, revealing a small, yellow and black Pokémon with a pair of yellow antennae that crackled with faint electricity. It was an Elekid, the pre-evolved form of Electabuzz. The little Electric-type Pokémon stretched its arms wide, letting out a high-pitched cry as it surveyed the battlefield, its black eyes gleaming with a spark of competitive energy.
"That's the Pokémon that used Volt Tackle earlier today, isn't it?" Paul inquired, a flicker of recognition crossing his features. The memory of Pikachu's electrifying attack earlier that day seemed to spark a new strategy in his mind.
"Yeah, so?" Ash replied, oblivious to the implication behind Paul's question.
"No reason," Paul muttered cryptically, his gaze fixed on Pikachu.
With a determined shout, Ash called out, "Let's go, Pikachu! Thunderbolt!" Pikachu responded with a surge of electricity. A bolt of lightning erupted from its cheeks, crackling with raw power as it arced towards Elekid.
Paul, however, remained calm in the face of the oncoming attack. "Spin your arms, Elekid!" he commanded, his voice sharp with strategy. Elekid, well-drilled in its trainer's commands, whirled its arms into a rapid spin. As the Thunderbolt struck, the small Electric-type Pokémon winced momentarily, its body momentarily engulfed in the electrical current.
However, to Dawn's surprise, Elekid remained standing, albeit a little singed around the edges. "What happened?" she gasped, her brow furrowed in confusion. She had witnessed Pikachu's raw power firsthand, and seeing Elekid take a direct Thunderbolt with minimal damage seemed impossible.
Akari, observant as ever, noticed the faint static field crackling around Elekid as it spun its arms rapidly during the attack. "It's because Elekid is an Electric-type," she explained patiently, her gaze fixed on the battlefield. "Electric-type moves are generally less effective against other Electric-type Pokémon. But that's not all. See how Elekid is spinning its arms? That's actually a defensive technique. By spinning its arms so fast, it creates a static field that redirects some of the electrical energy from an attack and channels it into its own body, essentially powering itself up and adding another layer of defence against Electric-type moves."
"Thunder!" Paul barked, his voice sharp. Elekid responded instantly, leaping high into the air with its arms still in motion. Then, in a sudden burst of movement, it halted its spinning, its arms extended towards Pikachu. A massive jolt of electricity erupted from its body, arcing towards the yellow mouse Pokémon with incredible speed. Pikachu, caught off guard by the sudden shift in tactics, could only react with a startled yelp as he was struck by the powerful attack. The impact sent him skidding backwards across the battlefield, leaving a trail of scorched earth in its wake.
Ash, heart pounding in his chest, scanned Pikachu anxiously. Relief flooded him as he saw the Electric-type Pokémon slowly get back on its feet, albeit a little singed and worse for wear. Before he could formulate his next move, Paul's voice cut through the tense silence.
"See why I let you attack first?" Paul taunted, a smug smirk twisting his features. "By having Pikachu use Thunderbolt, you unwittingly powered up Elekid's Electric attacks. You played right into my hands."
Ash gritted his teeth, his frustration mounting. He hadn't considered that possibility. He may have been eager to showcase Pikachu's strength, but it seemed he had fallen for Paul's subtle manoeuvring.
"Then how about this!" he countered, his voice laced with determination. "Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!" Pikachu, eager to unleash this attack, responded with a determined cry. His entire body crackled with a surge of electricity as he bolted forward, transforming into a blur of yellow lightning hurtling towards Elekid. While Ash hadn't realised it in the heat of the moment, this particular move, with its close-quarters contact, would prevent Elekid from utilising its arm-spinning defence.
"Perfect timing," he declared, his voice dripping with confidence. "Protect!" Elekid reacted with impressive speed. Its arms crossed in front of its body, forming a brilliant barrier of shimmering energy. Pikachu, propelled by his own momentum, slammed head-on into this barrier with a deafening crash. The force of the impact sent him flying backwards through the air before he landed hard on the ground with a pained yelp.
"Pikachu! What happened?" Dawn cried out, her voice filled with worry as she watched the yellow mouse Pokémon struggle to get back up. It seemed the impact from bouncing off Protect had inflicted more damage than the Thunder Elekid attacked with.
"That's because Volt Tackle, while powerful, has a drawback," Akari explained patiently, her brow furrowed in concern for Pikachu. "It deals damage to both the target and the user. By using Protect, Elekid negated all incoming damage, while Pikachu took the full brunt of the attack's recoil. Honestly, with Elekid's ability to absorb and redirect electrical attacks, it's almost like it was designed to counter Pikachu." She mused for a moment, a thoughtful expression on her face. "It's quite rare to see a Pokémon's moveset be such a perfect counter to another."
"Is that all you've got?" Paul scoffed, a cruel edge to his voice as he watched Pikachu rise to its feet, its movements wobbly and its fur singed. Despite the clear disadvantage, Ash refused to give up.
"This fight is far from over, Pikachu!" he declared, his voice ringing with unwavering determination. He thrust his arm forward, pointing a resolute finger at Elekid. "Iron Tail!"
Pikachu, fueled by Ash's unwavering belief, let out a resolute cry. Mustering what little strength he had left, the yellow mouse Pokémon surged forward. With a powerful leap, he propelled itself into the air, its tail glowing with a metallic sheen as he prepared to strike.
"Brick Break!" Paul countered swiftly, his voice sharp with strategy. Elekid reacted instantly, its arm glowing brightly as it launched a powerful punch towards the airborne Pikachu. The two attacks met in a dazzling display of light and sound, creating a temporary stalemate. But Paul wasn't finished yet. A cunning glint flickered in his eyes.
"Have you noticed the issue?" he taunted, a cruel smirk twisting his features. "Your Pikachu is at a disadvantage. He only has one tail, while my Elekid boasts two arms. Thunder Punch!" As if on cue, Elekid's other arm crackled with electricity, preparing to unleash a devastating Punch.
"Not so fast, Paul!" Ash roared, his voice laced with defiance. He wouldn't let Paul's words break his spirit. "Pikachu, use that Brick Break to your advantage! Push off of Elekid's fist and dodge that Thunder Punch!"
Pikachu, with a display of agility that defied its injuries, reacted with lightning speed. Using Elekid's own attack against it, Pikachu sprang off the glowing fist with a powerful push of his tail, narrowly avoiding the incoming Thunder Punch. As he spun gracefully in mid-air, his iron tail swung upwards, delivering a powerful uppercut towards Elekid's jaw.
"Brick Break!" Paul yelled, desperation creeping into his voice. Elekid, momentarily stunned by Pikachu's unexpected manoeuvre, scrambled to defend itself. With a burst of speed, it swung its arm outwards, attempting to counter the incoming Iron Tail.
The two attacks flew past each other, hitting their opponent and sending both Pokémon flying through the air. Pikachu landed with a heavy thud on one side of the battlefield, while Elekid tumbled across the ground before collapsing a close distance apart. The Pokémon tried to get up, but Pikachu fell, followed by Elekid shortly after. Both Pokémon lay motionless, their eyes swirling.
"Both Pokémon are unable to battle! The match ends in a draw!" Brock declared, his voice booming across the battlefield. The crowd erupted in a cacophony of cheers and groans, the outcome leaving them divided.
"Wow, a tie! That means they must be equally strong," Dawn exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement at the dramatic conclusion.
Akari, however, felt compelled to offer a more nuanced perspective. "Not quite, Dawn," she interjected gently. "Pikachu was undeniably the stronger Pokémon. Most of the damage he took was actually from his own attacks redirected by Elekid's defence. The true credit for this draw goes to Paul's brilliant strategy. He managed to exploit Pikachu's moveset and Ash's initial approach, effectively using Pikachu's power against themselves. It was a close call, and only the sheer determination of Ash and Pikachu prevented a clear defeat." Akari's keen eyes followed Ash as he rushed to Pikachu's side, his face etched with concern. Paul, on the other hand, recalled Elekid with a flick of his wrist, his expression unreadable.
Brock approached Ash, a sympathetic smile softening his features. "That was a truly even match," he remarked, offering words of encouragement. Ash, cradling the weakened Pikachu in his arms, shook his head stubbornly.
"No way, Brock," he argued, his voice laced with a hint of defiance. "Pikachu went down first. That has to be my loss, right, Paul?" He directed the question towards his rival, hoping for some validation.
Paul, however, remained impassive. He met Ash's gaze for a fleeting moment before reaching for a Poké Ball at his belt. "Given the circumstances," he finally spoke, his voice devoid of his usual arrogance, "a victory would be a hollow claim." With a flick of his wrist, he sent out a burst of blue light. A silhouette materialised briefly before a Starly, its wings outstretched, took flight. It chirped once, seemingly acknowledging its former trainer, before soaring away into the vast blue sky.
"Why'd you release it?" Ash demanded, anger bubbling just beneath the surface of his voice. He couldn't understand Paul's cold logic.
Paul shrugged, a dismissive gesture. "There are plenty of Starly of that calibre out there," he explained, his voice devoid of any warmth. "The moment I find a stronger one, I'll simply replace it." His words were a slap in the face, implying that not only was his Starly too weak for him now, but Ash's Starly, defeated by Paul's in the previous encounter, must have been even more pathetic.
Ash clenched his fists, his jaw tightening with suppressed fury. He understood the implication loud and clear. "What was that supposed to mean?" he growled, his voice strained.
But Paul simply ignored him. Turning towards Professor Rowan, he bowed politely. "Thank you, Professor, for the use of your field. I appreciate it." With that, he turned on his heel and walked away, his figure disappearing into the distance.
"Wait a minute, Paul! Let's battle again!" Ash yelled after him, his voice echoing across the empty field. But Paul didn't even turn his head. He was already gone.
"He just ignored me..." Ash muttered, slumping his shoulders in defeat. Pikachu, sensing his trainer's frustration, stirred in his arms. As he weakly opened his eyes, Pikachu also glanced in the direction Paul had disappeared, letting out a weak but determined cry, his small body bristling with defiance. Even though they were exhausted, both Ash and Pikachu knew this wasn't over. The fire of their competitive spirit still burned brightly. They would get stronger. They would defeat Paul. One day.
Akari, acting as a calming presence, walked over to Ash and gently placed a hand on his shoulder. "Hey," she said softly. "Let's head to the Pokémon Center and get your Pokémon healed up." She understood his frustration, but right now, his Pokémon needed attention.
Ash looked up at her, his eyes filled with a mixture of frustration and determination. He nodded slowly, accepting the wisdom in her words. There would be time for rivalry later, but for now, his priority was his Pokémon's well-being.
With Akari leading the way, the trainers said their goodbyes to Professor Rowan. Since Akari lived in the town, she knew exactly where the Pokémon Center was located. Brock, ever the flirt, tried his luck with Nurse Joy as they entered, but Ash, sensing the impending disaster, quickly pulled him away and ushered the group towards the waiting lounge.
Once they were settled after giving Nurse Joy their Poké Balls, a collective sigh escaped their lips. The intensity of the battle hung heavy in the air, draining their energy reserves. Dawn leaned forward, her brow furrowed in thought.
Once they settled into the waiting lounge after entrusting their Poké Balls to Nurse Joy, a collective sigh of exhaustion escaped their lips. The intensity of the battle lingered in the air, a heavy weight that had drained their energy reserves. Dawn leaned forward, her brow furrowed in concentration as she replayed the events of the fight in her mind.
"That was an incredible battle, even if it ended in a draw," she declared, her voice filled with awe. "You put on an amazing performance!" She looked at Ash, a wide smile spreading across her face.
"Thanks, Dawn," Ash replied, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "We'll get stronger. We'll beat Paul next time."
After some time, Nurse Joy emerged from the back room, a gentle smile gracing her lips. "Wonderful news, everyone!" she announced. "All of your Pokémon are fully healed and ready to continue your journey!"
A wave of relief washed over the trainers. Ash reached out and scratched Pikachu affectionately behind the ear as the electric mouse happily chirped and hopped back onto his shoulder. "Thank you so much, Nurse Joy," they chorused in gratitude.
With lunchtime having arrived, the group made their way to the Pokémon Center's on-site Trainer kitchen. Brock, showing his culinary skills, took charge, preparing a hearty meal not just for the trainers, but for their Pokémon companions as well. Akari, remembering her new Magikarp, piped up, "Brock, do you think you could whip up some special food for my Magikarp too? I want to make sure it gets the best fuel for its training."
Brock grinned. "Of course, Akari! A well-nourished Pokémon is a happy Pokémon, after all. Leave it to me!"
Once they were settled around a table, a delicious spread laid out before them, Akari spoke up. Glancing out the window at the bright afternoon sun, she noted, "There's still plenty of daylight left, wouldn't you say? Once you've finished your meals, you three will likely be heading out, right?"
The trio exchanged glances, a silent conversation passing between them. After a moment, they all nodded in agreement.
"Yeah, that sounds like a good plan," Dawn said. "Why don't you come with us, Akari?" she added, not wanting their new friend to feel excluded.
Akari shook her head, a small smile playing on her lips. "I appreciate the invitation, Dawn, but I still have some things to do at Professor Rowan's lab. But I'll probably be leaving in a few days to continue my own journey as well."
While a small part of her enjoyed the camaraderie they offered, Akari knew deep down that her path was best travelled alone with her Pokémon.
"That's a shame," Ash said, his gaze drifting towards the window where the imposing peak of Mount Coronet dominated the horizon. "Maybe we'll run into each other again while we're exploring Sinnoh."
With renewed energy and their Pokémon revitalised, the group exited the Pokémon Center and headed back out onto the bustling streets. Akari walked with them for a while, seeing them off as they embarked on Route 202. They waved goodbye, their figures growing smaller until they disappeared from view in the distance. Akari stood there for a moment, a contemplative expression on her face. As she turned and headed back towards the lab, a spark of excitement ignited within her. The journey had just begun, and she was eager to see what adventures awaited her on the road ahead.
When she entered the lab and settled back into her desk chair, the first thing that caught her eye was a framed photo nestled amongst her research papers. It was a warm picture, taken on a snowy Christmas Eve. Akari, Professor Rowan, and Lucas, all bundled up in festive attire, beamed brightly at the camera. A pang of reminiscence tugged at her heart as she thought about her cousin. Lucas was currently working as a teacher's assistant at the Pokémon School in Jubilife City.
Lost in thought, Akari turned her head unconsciously, her gaze drifting towards the north window. Professor Rowan, entering the lab with a stack of research materials under his arm, noticed her wistful expression and the direction of her gaze.
"Thinking about Lucas, are we?" he inquired kindly, his voice a warm rumble. "Perhaps you should pay him a visit. It could be a nice way to kick off your own journey."
Akari whipped her head around, startled by the professor's unexpected suggestion. "Start my journey now?" she sputtered, a flurry of anxieties bubbling up. "But Professor, I haven't finished preparing! There's still so much data to collect!"
Rowan nodded his head in understanding. "True," he said, offering a solution. "But if I assisted you, we could probably finish everything by tomorrow night, if what you told me about your timeline is accurate."
Professor Rowan's eyes twinkled with amusement. "I also think that battle with Ash and Paul has fired you up, hasn't it? If you aim to compete in the Sinnoh League someday, consider them your rivals. They'll be out there, training and growing stronger. Do you think spending more time cooped up in the lab while they're gaining experience is the best strategy?"
That last point struck a chord with Akari. Professor Rowan's words, delivered with a kind but firm nudge, left her with no arguments. Her shoulders slumped slightly. A part of her felt overwhelmed by the sudden push, but a wave of relief washed over her as well. The prospect of finally embarking on her Pokémon journey, something she'd dreamt of for months, was both terrifying and exhilarating.
As if sensing her internal conflict, a red blur erupted from its Poké Ball. Chimchar, her loyal fire-type companion, landed on her desk with a determined glint in its eyes. It let out a short, sharp cry, a clear message of encouragement. With this final nudge, Akari felt a surge of determination. She was ready.
Akari appreciated the offer, and a small smile slipped onto her lips. "I would love the assistance, Professor," she admitted. "If that happens, I could leave Sandgem Town the morning after."
Having solidified a plan, they dove headfirst into their work, determined to finish Akari's project within the next two days. With Professor Rowan's guidance, a seasoned Professor in Pokémon Science, they chipped away at the remaining work with renewed vigor. Discussions about Pokémon behavior and regional variations filled the air, punctuated by the satisfying clicks of data being uploaded and the rustle of turning pages in old research journals.
In what felt like a blur of focused activity, two nights had passed. Akari, with a sense of accomplishment washing over her, finished relaying the entirety of her Hisui experiences to Professor Rowan. Knowing this valuable information was now carefully documented and preserved eased any lingering anxieties. Perhaps, on her journey, she might even find her way back to the legendary Temple of Sinnoh. A flicker of hope ignited within her – the possibility of a real-world conversation with Arceus, outside the dreamscape, was a thought that brought a secret smile to her face.
Akari inhaled deeply, a surge of nervous excitement coursing through her veins. With meticulous care, she began gathering the essentials for her journey. Her backpack was carefully unpacked and laid flat. Inside, it would soon be a meticulously organized haven for her needs.
First came the essentials for her Pokémon companions: a generous supply of Poké Balls, a well-stocked pouch of berries that catered to different tastes and needs, and various healing items. Nestled beside these vital supplies sat a detailed map of the Sinnoh region, its once pristine surface now adorned with creases and highlighted paths – testaments to countless hours spent studying and meticulously planning her adventure. Additional necessities, like extra clothing and personal care items, were carefully chosen and added to the growing collection.
Finally, Akari turned her attention to her own attire. Nostalgia tugged at her heartstrings as she decided to incorporate cherished pieces from her Tanabata outfit. The long, flowing red scarf, would add a vibrant splash of color to her journey ensemble. The white bandana would be worn proudly around her head, with both acting as a constant reminder of Hisui. Of course, the Arc-Belt never left her waist since she got it for Christmas.
Once the morning came, Akari arrived at the lab one last time to give her farewells. Professor Rowan stood at the doorway of the lab, a warm smile gracing his features and a hint of pride shining in his eyes. With a final wave goodbye, Akari and Chimchar, her fiery partner perched confidently on her shoulder, stepped out into the bustling streets. The crisp morning air held the promise of adventure.
The journey north, towards Jubilife City, was the first step on a path brimming with possibilities. A vast world stretched before her, teeming with new Pokémon to discover, challenges to overcome, and lifelong friendships waiting to be forged. The flame of a Pokémon Trainer's spirit burned brightly within Akari, and a thrill of anticipation danced in her chest. She couldn't wait to see where the path would lead, each twist and turn a new chapter in the grand story of her Pokémon journey.
I know some of you might be disappointed that Akari won't be joining the Diamond and Pearl gang on their journey. While that was my original plan ages ago, there's a key reason why I changed course.
I don't want this story to be a complete retelling of Diamond and Pearl. While I did add some original details, like the Ariados battle, the overall plot remained similar to the original episodes. There wasn't much Akari could change at this point in the story.
Frankly, I don't want to get bogged down by the filler content prevalent in Diamond and Pearl. Even if we ignore the filler, I'd be juggling not only Akari's story but also Ash's and Dawn's, along with Team Rocket's antics. As much as I enjoy Team Rocket, writing them was a nightmare.
Akari will eventually reunite with the gang before the end of Volume 1. However, I believe it's important for her to have some solo travel time to allow her character to develop further.
Tune in next week for Dreams Never End: Chapter 8 - Ignite