"Yes! I managed to get this chapter out before the day ended! Why is today so significant? Because today's my birthday! And I've had an awesome day, and finishing this chapter was just the icing on the cake! I hope you guys enjoy this chapter! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to enjoy the rest of my birthday. ^^ I own nothing but the story.
Chapter 22
Misty's POV
After that whole experience with Paul and Chimchar, I had gotten a real close-up view at how much Ash had matured trainer-wise. He had taken the situation so calmly, something he would've never have done when we were traveling in Kanto. And I also saw the hostile side of Ash that was usually only unleashed when Gary was around, but Paul was worse than Gary would ever be. I actually felt guilty for holding him back, or not chucking my mallet at Paul myself.
We had a small talk before we rolled out the sleeping-bags, and I thanked him for "defending my honor". Ash truly was my knight in shining armor, even if sometimes I didn't ask him to be. I guess then I could call Paul the fire-breathing dragon. After all, he blew a lot of smoke earlier. I'm glad Charizard was able to give him a whuppin', but I wasn't completely surprised when Paul managed to beat it eventually.
As much as I hated to admit it, despite his ruthless method, Paul had extremely powerful Pokémon who listened to what he said. But personally, if I was a Pokémon, I'd rebel against him. And after having a good night's sleep, as close as I could get to Ash of course, we walked the last leg of the journey to Pastoria City.
"When we got there, Ash immediately took off for the gym so he could challenge the gym leader. As a water-type trainer, I too was interested in seeing what the leader would be like. Which brought us to where we were now, standing in front of the Pastoria Gym.
Normal POV
"Alright! We made it guys!" Ash exclaimed excitedly. "So what are you waiting for? Let's see what this gym leader is like!" Misty said. "Alright…!" Ash was cut-off suddenly when he bumped into something hard and landed on his butt. "Ow…that hurt." Ash said, rubbing his aching tailbone. "Hey, are you alright?" Dawn asked. "Feels like I ran into a brick wall." Ash said.
"Or the equivalent in muscle." Misty said, looking up at the gigantic figure bearing down on them. The group shrank back with intimidation, as they stared at the human who was more than twice Brock's size at least. "Ok…who are you?" Ash asked nervously. "I'll just tell you. I'm the Pastoria Gym Leader, Crasher Wake!" Wake exclaimed, his booming voice echoing in the ears of the four teens.
"Aaah! You ever seen a leader like that?" Dawn asked. "Better question, have you ever seen a human like that?" Misty asked. "No to both questions, but my experience has shown that there are all kinds of gym leaders in this world." Brock said. "Not in Kanto or Johto there aren't." Misty said.
Ash got up and looked at the giant gym leader with determination. "Well my name's Ash, and I've come from Pallet Town and I'm here to challenge you to a gym battle!" Ash exclaimed. "I've got some urgent business to attend to today, so I regret to tell you that I can't." Wake replied. Ash lost his fiery demeanor and groaned. "Wha? Aww man.
"Though if you like, you can all come with me, whaddya say?" Wake asked. "Err…go where?" Ash asked nervously. Wake pointed out into the distance and laughed heartily. "Up there! You'll understand soon enough." he said.
Wake suddenly took off running, when he heard an alarm bell go off. "Where's he going?" Misty asked. "Come on; just follow me to the train yard!" Wake exclaimed. The group shrugged and chased after Wake as he continued to put space between himself and them.
"We've gotta hurry or we won't make it onboard!" Wake yelled. "Let's move!" Ash exclaimed. "Step on it!" Dawn exclaimed, pushing Brock to get him to move faster. Misty suddenly lost her balance and fell to the ground; luckily no damage was made to her knees. "Aah! Misty!" Ash yelled. Ash turned back and charged right in-between Dawn and Brock, and helped Misty back to her feet.
"Hurry up! The train is leaving!" Wake boomed. Dawn and Brock managed to get on the train just before the small safety door closed, but Ash and Misty weren't so lucky. "We're leaving without them!" Dawn screamed. "Maybe I can get the conductor to stop the train." Wake said. "Just wait, they'll get here." Brock said calmly.
"Sorry Ash, if I hadn't have tripped we wouldn't have been left behind." Misty said guiltily. "Who said we're getting left behind? Just watch." Ash said. Ash waved his hand, signaling Misty to step back. Misty complied and gave Ash room to move. "Charizard, I choose you!" Ash exclaimed. Charizard emerged with a roar, and the couple quickly hopped onto its back.
"We've got a train to catch!" Ash exclaimed. Charizard roared and took off after the still slowly chugging train. It didn't take long before Charizard had caught up to the train and moved up to the caboose. "Alright, now all we gotta do is hop onto the caboose." Ash said. Ash leapt off of Charizard and landed safely onto the caboose, while Misty was reluctant to do the same.
"Come on Mist, the train is speeding up!" Ash exclaimed, as Charizard was forced to fly faster and faster to avoid being left behind. "Ash, if I don't make the jump, I'm road kill!" Misty screamed fearfully. "Don't worry, I'll catch you!" Ash yelled. "Catch me? He's got a little bit of muscle but I don't think he can pull that off!" Misty thought.
"Misty, trust me!" Ash yelled. Misty bit her bottom lip and thought about it, she did trust Ash, so she closed her eyes and jumped. Half-expecting to feel a sharp pain, she was welcomed by the comforting feeling of Ash's body. After breathing a sigh of relief, she opened her eyes and noticed that Ash had indeed caught her, but not the way she pictured it.
"Oof, see? I told you I'd catch you." Ash strained, as the weight of Misty's body pressed against his chest. Misty scrambled to her feet and helped Ash back to his. "That wasn't what I had in mind you know." Misty giggled. "Did you think I could catch you any other way?" Ash asked. "Nope, you're too wimpy to catch me." Misty teased. "And to think I used to call you scrawny, I should call you something the opposite now." Ash replied in the same tone.
"Rule number one of being a boyfriend; don't ever call your girlfriend anything less than pretty." Misty said teasingly. "Ok, how about…beautiful then?" Ash said sheepishly. Misty turned to meet Ash's gaze and lightly blushed. "The door's locked by the way." Ash said. "So what?" Misty replied. The two moved closer to embrace each other, but they never made contact, for a 'Flamethrower' had shot right in between them.
Ash and Misty looked to see where it came from and laughed. Charizard was trying to get their attention, since it was now flying as fast it could possibly go and was getting tired. "Sorry Charizard, thanks for your help." Ash said, returning Charizard to his Pokéball. "Now, where were we?" Misty asked timidly. They smiled at each other and hugged each other lovingly, with Misty's arms wrapped around Ash's neck, and his left arm around her waist, and his right hand fingered her bright orange hair.
"Hey, did you know that you're a great kisser?" Misty asked. "No, I didn't know that." Ash replied. "Well, the only way to get better is to practice." Misty said. "What does that…oh…I get it." Ash replied with a smirk. Misty giggled at his reply. The two moved in to share their second kiss, which both thought would be just as wonderful as the first, but they were interrupted by Dawn, Brock, and Crasher Wake, who had come to the caboose to see if they had made it. It was quite obvious that they had.
"Well, should we just leave you two alone then?" Wake boomed, laughing heartily. "N-No, that's alright, thanks for letting us in." Misty stammered. Ash and Misty walked past their watchers, and sat down next to each other on the train seat. Dawn, Brock, and Wake followed soon after. They looked out the window, staring at the glorious scenery of trees, green grass, and mountains beyond.
"Ahh, the majesty of wide open spaces…the Pastoria Great Marsh." Wake said. "You're right Wake, it's impressive." Brock said. "I wonder what kind of Pokémon live there." Ash said. "It's a marsh, that means water, and that usually means water-Pokémon. I should feel right at home here." Misty said. "You know Misty; marshes usually have a lot of bugs too." Brock joked. Misty's face turned pale, and she scooted closer to Ash for comfort.
"So, you're a fan of water-type Pokémon?" Wake asked. "Yeah, Misty used to be the gym leader in Cerulean City in Kanto, and the gym specializes in water-Pokémon." Ash answered for her. "Gym leader huh? Well it's certainly a pleasure to meet one of my fellow leaders, especially when they specialize in water-types." Wake said. "I'm more proud of my water-type expertise than my gym leader title; my goal in life is to become the world's greatest water-Pokémon master!" Misty exclaimed.
"A noble mission. Well, the best of luck to you." Wake replied. "Not that this conversation isn't fascinating, but I'd still like to know where we're going." Dawn said. "You'll find out in a minute." Wake said.
No sooner had he said that, the train stopped and they stepped out to the muddy swamp. "Alright folks, follow me!" Wake boomed. Yelling, Wake charged down the long bridge that spanned across the entire marsh. "Hey, come on Wake! Wait for us!" Ash yelled, running as hard as his legs would carry him.
The group of teens ran in vain, as Crasher Wake had disappeared from sight, leaving them completely lost in the middle of the swamp. "Now where'd he go? For a big guy, that Wake can move." Ash said. "If I didn't think a bug was going to show up at any moment, I'd say that the scenery was something to look at." Misty said, gripping tightly onto Ash's left arm.
A strange noise was heard, which Misty cringed at upon hearing it. "You're alright Mist, calm down." Ash said soothingly. "Piplup, quit making those strange noises, you're scaring Misty." Dawn scolded. "Piplup pi piplup." (That's not me.) "What? Then who is it?" Dawn wondered. "It sounds like it's coming from the tall grass." Ash said.
The group looked around with nervousness, although in Misty and Dawn's case, it was more like fear. Suddenly, several pairs of yellow, half-moon shaped eyes appeared from the bushes, which brought screams of terror from Misty and Dawn. A figure slowly emerged from the bushes. Misty hid herself behind Ash, and Dawn did likewise to Brock. The group of frightened teens braced themselves for whatever was coming, but felt slight relief when all they saw was a Croagunk.
"Hey, it's just Croagunk." Ash said. "You really scared us." Dawn said, as the Croagunk walked by without acknowledging their presence. "That's not my Croagunk." Brock said, holding the Pokéball that contained his own Croagunk.
"Then whose is it?" Ash asked. Just then, a whole bunch of Croagunk came walking out of the nearby bushes, each marching along with the same dull expression as the last. "I guess this isn't a water-type swamp after all." Misty said, still hiding behind Ash. "Yeah, it's crawling with Croagunk instead." Dawn said. "I guess they must all be wild Croagunk." Ash figured.
"I don't think so, look over there." Brock said. The group of teens turned and saw many more Croagunk appearing, except they had trainers with them. "What's going on?" Ash asked. "I was just wondering the same thing." Dawn said. "Looks like it's a Croagunk carnival or something." Misty joked, trying to calm herself. "There's only one way to find out!" Ash exclaimed.
Ash took off in the direction the other Croagunk took, leaving the still slightly frightened Misty without a hiding spot. "Hey! Wait for us Ash!" Misty cried, taking off after him. Dawn and Brock soon followed. After a few minutes of running, the group reached an unbelievable sight: A giant Croagunk statue. "Whoa, check it out." Ash said. "I haven't seen anything like that since the Wobbuffet statue in Johto." Misty said in awe. "Isn't that something Piplup?" Dawn asked. Piplup replied with an awed chirp. "I want Azurill to see this." Misty said.
Misty pulled out a Pokéball, and Azurill formed in Misty's arms. "Check that out Azurill." Misty said. "Azu." (Cool.) Azurill replied. They stared a while longer, until Wake had noticed their arrival. "Hey! What took you so long? I was getting worried." Wake said. "What took us so long is that you run too fast." Misty joked. Wake laughed heartily. "I guess I do move pretty fast for someone my size." he said. "So, what's up with the Croagunk statue?" Dawn asked.
"Well you see, here in Pastoria City, our Croagunk are honored as guardians of the Pastoria Great Marsh, and the people here treat them with massive respect." Wake explained. "Can you say, 'Déjà vu'?" Misty whispered in Ash's ear. Ash quietly laughed at Misty's joke, as Wake continued his story.
"Each and every family in our fair city is responsible for raising one Croagunk with great reverence and care, and once every year, everyone gathers together to hold the Croagunk Festival, where they choose the year's Croagunk champion! And the festival happens to be tonight!" Wake explained. "Croagunk Festival?" the group said in unison.
"Precisely! And as a conclusion, the winning Croagunk receives a crown, encrusted with a beautiful diamond and pearl." Wake said. "A crown eh?" Ash said. "Oooh, I want it!" Dawn squealed. "Sorry to burst your bubble, but you need a Croagunk for that." Misty said. Dawn face-faulted and groaned, which brought laughter from everyone except Brock, who was intently listening to a distant voice.
"Hey Brock, what's wrong?" Ash asked. "Sssh! Do you hear that?" Brock asked. "I don't hear anything Brock." Misty replied. She spoke too soon, as a shrill and panicked voice was heard in the distance. "Only one beautiful voice can make those bell-like tones! Nurse Joy! Over there!" Brock yelled. Brock raced to the frightened Nurse's location, where she was defending herself from a verbal onslaught.
"You said there'd be a marriage this year and this year's here!" the young man exclaimed. "I don't remember making a promise like that!" Nurse Joy defended, waving her arms back and forth. "Stop it now!" Brock yelled angrily. Nurse Joy and the young man looked over at the chivalrous Pokémon Breeder.
"I refuse to let you force Nurse Joy into a marriage she doesn't want!" Brock yelled. "What are you talking about?" the young man asked exasperatedly. Brock lost his fire and became confused. "But…didn't you propose?" he asked. "No, no. Hamilton doesn't want to marry me; he wants my Croagunk to marry his Croagunk." Nurse Joy explained.
Ash, Misty, and Dawn had joined their friend on the stairs by now, and they simultaneously looked down at Nurse Joy's feet, where a female Croagunk wearing a large, pink bow was hiding behind her master's leg for protection.
"As usual, Brock makes a fool of himself in front of a girl." Misty joked. Ash and Dawn laughed along with Misty at the sweat-dropping Pokémon Breeder. But Brock refused to back down, as he was determined to try and salvage Nurse Joy's first impression of him. "Alright then buddy, where's your Croagunk?" he asked angrily.
"You wanna see my Croagunk?" Hamilton asked. "That's what I said!" Brock replied. Hamilton put on a cheesy grin and turned, revealing his Croagunk who was clinging onto his shirt. "He's right here! Say hello to Craig!" he exclaimed cockily. "Wow, look at that! He's got a crown on!" Dawn exclaimed, noting that Hamilton's Croagunk was wearing the championship crown.
"Craig must've won the festival last year." Brock figured. "That's cool, but why is Craig hanging on your shirt like that?" Ash asked. "Look who's talking. You've got a Pikachu on your shoulder, she's got an Azurill in her arms, and she's got a Piplup on her head." Hamilton replied. "He's got us there." Dawn moaned. "Pokémon Trainer and Pokémon always hang tight together and we're no exception." Hamilton said. Craig croaked in agreement. "Alright, admit it, wouldn't it be an honor and a privilege to marry King Craig?" Hamilton asked smugly. "Oh please." Brock snapped. "You're just jealous that you don't have a champion. Seeya later Nurse Joy, after the festival!" Hamilton snickered, as he walked away in a smug fashion.
"It's like Hamilton doesn't hear a word I say…I told him that my Krissy doesn't like his Craig, but he doesn't listen." Nurse Joy said dejectedly. "Well, I'm Brock and I'll listen." Brock said, holding Nurse Joy around her shoulders. "And here we go." Misty sighed. "Nurse Joy, don't worry your pretty head." Brock said soothingly. "Huh?" Nurse Joy asked in bewilderment.
"Once my Croagunk becomes champion, Hamilton will see the light, and then your Croagunk and mine will join together in wedded bliss, and perhaps we may follow in their footsteps as well! Arm in arm, hand in haaaaand!" Brock had been 'Poison Jabbed' right in the middle of his romantic dialogue. "I…could…use…a…nurse…anyway." Brock strained. Brock doubled over in pain, and was dragged away by the irritated frog, leaving the surprised Nurse Joy to watch as Brock was dragged off.
"We're sorry about our friend, whenever he sees a pretty girl, he can't help himself." Misty said. "That's alright, that IS quite a Croagunk he has though." Nurse Joy said, apparently impressed by Brock's Croagunk. "Of course, Brock's an awesome trainer too, along with being a Pokémon Breeder in training." Ash said. "He might be able to save my Krissy at that." Nurse Joy said.
"Well, I have to get ready for the competition, see you all later." Nurse Joy said, walking away. The three teens waved goodbye to the pink haired nurse. "Well guys, since this is a festival, let's go have some fun!" Dawn exclaimed. "Sounds good to me, how about it Ash?" Misty asked. "Sure thing Mist…but first…I wanna check out that concession stand!" Ash replied, running off to the nearest food stand. "Looks like Ash's stomach is still stronger than his heart." Dawn joked. "One day…one day." Misty said with a sweat-drop.
Meanwhile, while the group of teens were enjoying themselves at the festival, Team Rocket was trudging through the swamp, although James was cheerier than anyone else.
"Wow! All the memories!" James exclaimed cheerfully. James may have been happy, but his two partners in crime weren't exactly happy about ankle deep in mud. "Mushville." Jessie moaned. "It was right here in the gorgeous Pastoria Great Marsh that my dear Carnivine and I first met." James said.
"I was merely marching along, singing a song, when suddenly I heard a faint moaning. I looked around and saw a muddy Carnivine who was obviously in pain. Upon seeing it, I said: 'Fear not, I'll save you! Stay right there!' I ran to save the poor Pokémon, and I dragged it all the way to dry land. And it was then a dear friendship was born." James explained.
"That's the story of how Carnivine and I crossed paths, such sweet memories." James said. Wanting his friend to share the memories, James pulled out a Pokéball from his pocket. "Carnivine, feel the magic!" he exclaimed, as his old friend bit onto his head affectionately.
Jessie and Meowth sighed exasperatedly, as James yelled incoherently through Carnivine's unique display of affection. "Jess…we slathered out here in this sludge so James could get his reunion ya-yas out?" Meowth asked. Jessie laughed. "Now you don't think I'd muddy my designer boots for that, do you?" she replied.
"Ok, what gives?" Meowth asked. "The Pastoria Great Marsh is the slurpy sight of the Croagunk Festival, the winning Croagunk of which gets a magnificently jeweled crown." Jessie explained. "But we're outta Croagunk ta enter your magnificently jeweled silk." Meowth said. All of a sudden, Meowth felt very small next to Jessie, who was grinning at him maliciously. "Ahh, but we DO have a Croagunk to enter." Jessie said. Meowth moaned nervously. "So how come I'm scared to ask who it is?" he said with a sweat-drop. With that, Jessie dragged Meowth off to get into his guise.
Back at the festival, Misty and Dawn were watching as Crasher Wake was instructing the workers on what to put and where. "I get it. No wonder Wake told us there wasn't a moment to have a gym battle right now." Dawn said. "Uh, yeah, sure." Misty replied quickly, as she turned her head in all directions. "Still looking for Ash?" Dawn asked. "I haven't seen him in a while." Misty replied.
As if on cue, Ash walked up with a bag of treats in his hand. "Hey guys, isn't the festival great?" Ash said. "Where have you been anyway? I wanted to hit the midway with you." Misty said. "Oops, sorry Mist, guess my stomach got the better of me." Ash apologized. "You and your stomach… (Sigh) what am I gonna do with you?" Misty moaned.
"Hey, you should try this, it's a Croagunk Pie, they're awesome!" Ash exclaimed, offering one of his treats to Misty. She stared at it for a few seconds before sweat-dropping. "Erm…I'd rather not eat something that's looking at me." she said. "Ok, watch this." Ash said. Ash flipped the pie over, which hid the Croagunk face from view. "How about now?" Ash asked.
Misty looked again, and reluctantly gave in. She ripped off a piece of the pie, and chewed it cautiously. After a few minutes, she smiled. "Hey, they're not bad." Misty said, taking the rest of the small pie to munch on. "I told you! Here Dawn, you try one." Ash said, offering one to the younger girl. "Ew! Just ew!" Dawn squealed. Ash and Misty laughed at the panicking girl who wanted no part of the choice of snack.
"Alright Ash, I did what you wanted, now let's go have some fun!" Misty exclaimed. She grabbed his hand and dragged him off to the middle of the festival. "Here Dawn, hold these for me!" Ash yelled, tossing his bag of pies to Dawn. Dawn cringed and dodged the bag of disgusting frog pies. "I repeat: Ew!" Dawn screamed. Piplup hopped off of Dawn's head, and started eating the pies that had dropped on the floor.
"Ew! Piplup, how can you eat those things?" Dawn asked. "Piplup piplup pi piplup." (Because they actually taste good.) Piplup replied. "Let me rephrase…EW!" Dawn squealed. Piplup sweat-dropped and continued eating.
After about a half-hour of frolicking in the midway, Ash and Misty returned from their "date-night". "Thanks for winning me that Pokédoll Ash." Misty said, holding the small Croagunk plushy that Ash had won for her. "No problem, after all this time throwing Pokéballs, knocking those bottles down was easy." Ash replied proudly.
"Hey, I'm kind of hungry, how about you go and get us some cotton candy or something?" Misty suggested. "Cotton candy, coming up. Hey Pikachu, stay here and keep Misty company ok?" Ash said before walking off. "Pika Pikapi!" (Ok Ash!) Pikachu replied. As soon as Ash was out of earshot, Misty looked around and saw a little girl trying to win her own Croagunk plushy.
She walked over to the girl and offered up her own plushy. "Here you go, enjoy it." Misty said cheerfully. "Gee, thanks so much!" the girl squealed. The little girl took off running, cheerfully swinging her new toy around with glee. "Pika pika Pikachupi?" (Why'd you do that Misty?) Pikachu asked. "I appreciated Ash's effort, but somehow, a Croagunk plush toy doesn't really appeal to me." Misty replied. "Pika pika." (Good point.) Pikachu said.
Ash came back with a cotton candy, half blue, and half pink. "Where's your Pokédoll Misty?" Ash asked. "I gave it to a little girl that wanted one, she was trying so hard to win one, and I just couldn't help it." Misty said, feigning guilt. "That's alright, we'll just have to go and win another one for you." Ash said. "N-No, that's alright, let's just enjoy this cotton candy, ok?" Misty said, taking a bite of her pink half. "But Misty…" Ash was cut-off when Misty stuffed a piece of blue cotton candy into his mouth.
Ash swallowed and smiled. "Alright Mist, whatever you say." he said. The two smiled at each other, and then looked up, where the fireworks display had started, signaling the beginning of the competition. "Where have you two been?" Dawn screamed angrily, walking up from behind the couple. "Right here, why?" Ash asked. "Because I've been looking for you for at least half an hour, watching Piplup eat those disgusting Croagunk pies!" Dawn replied. "Pi piplup plup pi plup." (They're not disgusting.) Piplup said. "Oh whatever." Dawn moaned.
"Oops, sorry about that Dawn." Ash said. Dawn was about to mount another verbal assault, when Misty quickly changed the subject. "Hey look, Wake's ready to go." she said, pointing up to the stage. Sure enough, there was Crasher Wake with a microphone in his hand.
"Hey, Croagunk fans! It looks like we got us a spirited crowd for this year's Croagunk Festival, so do your M.C. a heap sized favor, let me hear you scream!" Wake boomed, screaming along with the crowd.
"All Croagunk entrants who make it past the first and second round will face off against the defending champion in a final battle for the crown. So if Hamilton would be so kind as to kindly take that coveted crown back from Craig." Wake said. Hamilton complied, and placed the crown back onto its pedestal.
"Then, as you know, the winner of this year's Pokémon battle will be crowned this year's Pastoria Great Marsh Croagunk Festival Diamond and Pearl champion!" Wake exclaimed. With that, Wake ran for the judges table and joined his two partners.
"Our judges include your own gym leader, Wake, of course, along with yours truly, Nurse Joy. And last but certainly not least, Cardy, our beloved station chief." Nurse Joy said. "Thank you, pleasure to be here." Cardy said with a southern drawl. "You know the drill, give it all you got, and your Croagunk might wear the crown." Wake said.
The crowd cheered wildly, which included Ash, Misty, and Dawn of course. "Now, our beauty contest, for the premiere round, so let's bring out our first Croagunk contestant!" Nurse Joy exclaimed. Immediately, one Croagunk walked across the stage and squatted, as it croaked with bulging orange cheeks. The crowd oohed and aahed.
Cardy: "Now there's a real looker."
Wake: "And how."
Nurse Joy: "Thank you, and now for our next contestant."
Another Croagunk walked on stage, just as the previous one walked off. It did precisely what the previous Croagunk did: squatted and croaked with bulging cheeks, and the crowd oohed and aahed some more. "Wait a sec, did I miss something?" Misty asked. "I'm…not…sure?" Ash said.
Cardy: "Dashing good looks!"
Nurse Joy: "Agreed. Handsome. And now our third Croagunk."
Yet another Croagunk appeared onstage, and did exactly the same thing, and the crowd apparently loved it. "Is that Brock's Croagunk?" Misty asked. "I can't really tell." Dawn said. "I guess we'll have to look for Brock then." Ash said.
Cardy: "Now that's one of a kind."
Wake: "Indeed."
Nurse Joy: "Wow."
"Well, the crowd seems to love it." Ash said. "I'm a little confused as to why though." Misty added. "Yeah, they all look exactly the same." Dawn added. "Hey, there's Brock! His Croagunk's gotta be next!" Ash exclaimed. "I guess I'll cheer for his sake, but I still can't see any differences." Misty said.
"I'm counting on you Croagunk." Brock said. With that, Brock's Croagunk walked on stage…and did exactly the same thing. Except this time, Wake, Cardy, and Nurse Joy gasped at the sight. "What happened? What's wrong?" Brock panicked.
Wake: "Wow, that shine and glimmer, it's…incredible! Especially those startlingly adorable eyes!"
"Nurse Joy: "Those eyes are startling!"
Cardy: "They're like nuthin…I've ever seen."
"Whoa, they sure love Brock's Croagunk, don't they?" Ash said. "I still think they all look the same." Dawn said. "Maybe to us they do, they obviously see something we don't." Misty said.
"Excellent! You're a hit Croagunk! They love you, they really love you! Yahoo!" Brock cheered. As they walked off the stage, Team Rocket appeared in disguise with Meowth in a Croagunk costume. "Those fans haven't seen anything yet." Jessie said. "Ya tink dis Croagunk costume's gonna woik?" Meowth asked exasperatedly. "Of all the Croagunk in the world you're the Croagunkiest!" James said.
Meowth moaned and did his impression of a Croagunk, squatting down just like all the other Croagunk before him. The judges and everyone in the crowd gasped in shock at the sight of Meowth in his costume.
"Who woulda thought a fake Croagunk could lay an egg?" Meowth mumbled to himself. After a while though, the crowd suddenly started cheering for what they thought was the most unique Croagunk they had ever seen.
Wake: "Those sparkling eyes, pearly whites, and a belly that looks so…soft! I've never seen a Croagunk quite like it."
Cardy: "You know, it's prettier than a Persian!"
Nurse Joy: "One of a kind!"
"Hmmph, the bozos bought it." Meowth mumbled to himself, sweat from the fear of getting caught dripping from his brow. "Now that's a Croagunk of a different color." Ash said in approval. "I guess you could put it that way." Dawn said. "Something seems oddly familiar about that Croagunk though." Misty said suspiciously. "Like what?" Ash asked. "I can't put my finger on it. But I know I've seen it somewhere before." Misty replied.
"And now folks, all the Croagunk who have made it past the first round will move on to the brick breaking competition! The Croagunk who breaks the largest number of bricks from this ten brick stack will be our winner! Alright, begin!" Wake yelled.
The first Croagunk stepped up to the stack, and managed to smash the first two bricks. "Breaking two bricks is a very good start." Nurse Joy said.
After replacing the two broken bricks, the next Croagunk came up and smashed two bricks. The next one broke four bricks, and the one after that broke seven bricks. "My hand's starting to hurt just watching them." Ash said. "I think that the skinny Croagunk won't have much luck." Misty said. "Why do you say that?" Dawn asked. "Like I said, something seems familiar about that Croagunk." Misty replied.
Finally, the time came for Brock's Croagunk to get his shot. "I know you can break all ten bricks Croagunk, so get in there!" Brock encouraged. Croagunk stepped up to the pile and leaped high into the air, smashing all ten bricks with a powerful punch. "Just like that!" Brock cheered.
Nurse Joy stood up from her seat with sheer astonishment. "Ten bricks? That was an amazing performance!" she exclaimed. The crowd cheered for Brock's Croagunk, who merely stood there as the applause continued.
"Here comes that skinny one." Hamilton said, as he sat watching from the champion throne. "The only ting dat I'll be able ta break is my neck!" Meowth said with a sweat-drop. Wake stepped up to the scratch-cat Pokémon in disguise and stared it down. "Alright, you're our last contestant, keep in mind that Brock's Croagunk broke through all ten bricks, if you don't match that, this is as far as you're going, right?" Wake said.
Meowth moaned and sweat-dropped, as he stepped up to the huge pile of ten bricks, which in Meowth's mind seemed more like a hundred bricks. He took a deep breath and slammed his fist into the pile, and then a cracking sound was heard, as Meowth failed to even put a dent into one brick. "I wonder if that hurt?" James said. Meowth turned and faced his two friends, with his right paw hanging down in pain.
"Nuthin gets past you." he moaned. And with that, Meowth face-faulted and was dragged off by Jessie and James. "I told you so." Misty said. "I could've sworn I heard that Croagunk talking." Dawn said. "Nah, must be your imagination. It doesn't matter now, Brock's Croagunk won!" Ash said.
"Now that our brick breaking competition is behind us, we know who's going on to the final round! It's the Croagunk belonging to Brock! So now it's time to decide our big winner! A face-off between Hamilton and Brock, as both their Croagunk engage in a battle for the crown!" Wake exclaimed.
"I just knew Brock's Croagunk could do it!" Ash exclaimed. "Now it's time to show that creep, Hamilton, what's he's made of!" Misty exclaimed. "I really hope they win after they've worked so hard!" Dawn added.
"Brock, good luck to you and your Croagunk!" Nurse Joy said with a wink. "Luck is not necessary, only love. And after our victory, I vow to protect you and your Krissy from the selfish and greedy clutches of Hamilton and…" Brock's fantasy was cut-off when Hamilton leaped from the throne and readied for battle.
"Did Nurse Joy just wink at Brock?" Dawn asked in shock. "In very rare cases, the girl that Brock hits on will like him back somewhat." Misty replied. "Yeah, like Suzy from Kanto and Johto." Ash added. "Wow, I didn't know that Brock actually had chances with girls!" Dawn laughed. "Like I said, in RARE cases." Misty said.
"Hey Brock, I've got a little song for you." Hamilton said. Brock refused to reply, but Hamilton went ahead anyway. "Courage! Courage! Unlimited strength and skill, Brock and his Croagunk won't win this but Craig and I will!" he said, snickering after he finished. Brock clenched his fists and growled, with Croagunk by his side, ready to defend the honor of himself and his master. "Hamilton, I want you to know that I'm hoping will all my heart that Brock and his Croagunk beat you and your Craig." Nurse Joy said angrily. "Come now Nurse Joy, that's no way to treat Krissy's future husband. See you at the ring!" Hamilton said smugly.
"Don't worry Nurse Joy, we won't let you down. Let's go Croagunk!" Brock said determinedly. And with that, Brock placed Croagunk into the fighting ring with Craig. "Good luck to both of you." Nurse Joy whispered to herself.
"Alright folks, the moment you've all been waiting for! Our championship battle!" Wake yelled. "Ok Croagunk, keep it clean." Brock said. The bell went off, signaling the battle to begin. The two Croagunk faced off against each other, each keeping the other at bay with occasional punches and kicks.
"Yeah! Show 'em how Croagunk!" Ash cheered. "I still can't tell you two apart, but good luck wherever you are!" Dawn cheered.
"Alright, 'Cross Chop' Craig, let's go!" Hamilton ordered. Craig bounced off the ropes, and hit Brock's Croagunk dead on. "Croagunk!" Brock yelled. Croagunk landed on his back with a thud. "(Gasp) Is this it for Brock's Croagunk?" Nurse Joy exclaimed worriedly.
"Finish up with 'Dynamic Punch'!" Hamilton ordered. Craig readied himself to finish off Brock's Croagunk right then and there, but Croagunk managed to roll out of the way and dodge the super-powerful punch. "Now use 'Poison Jab' and keep it up!" Brock ordered.
Croagunk leaped for the now vulnerable Craig, and nailed it with three consecutive 'Poison Jabs', which sent Craig flying into the air. Craig landed back on the mat with a thud, and slowly got up to stare down Croagunk once more.
"Looks like an even match!" Ash exclaimed. "Which means now Brock's technique is the only thing that can decide the winner." Misty added. "Yeah, but who's who?" Dawn asked, still confused.
"Since they're both equal in attack and defense skills, I can't imagine either one of those two giving a single inch." Wake mumbled to himself. A strange noise was suddenly heard from the sky. Everyone in the area looked up, and saw what appeared to be a giant Croagunk robot falling from the sky.
The audience screamed in terror and ran away in hordes. "Where'd that come from?" Brock yelled. "What's that thing?" Ash yelled. "I knew that Croagunk looked familiar! It must've been Meowth in disguise!" Misty screamed. "That's gotta be it! And now they're here in that thing!" Ash yelled.
Jessie: "Excuse me twerp, this is not a thing!"
James: "The latest craze has a greater ring."
Meowth wasn't in the mood to do their motto, since his paw had been wrapped into a cast from smashing it into the brick pile. "Quit your quackin'! Blabbamouths, instead of flappin' your gums, let's chase and cop that crown! Get down!" he exclaimed angrily. Meowth pushed a button with his good paw, and the Croagunk mecha fired a sticky tongue which stole the crown right from its pedestal.
"Wow! What a tongue-lashing!" Jessie and James cheered. "If we had done dat before, I woulda been able ta save my paw." Meowth moaned. "Oh no, our crown's been stolen!" Wake shouted. "Hamilton, let's take a break and help out!" Brock yelled. "Ok, fine with me!" Hamilton replied.
"Croagunk, get that crown back, right now!"
"Ok Craig, you too!"
The two Croagunk charged the giant robot. "It's time ta get a few more licks!" Meowth exclaimed. Meowth pushed the button again, and the sticky tongue got a hold of Croagunk and Craig.
"Aah! They've got Croagunk!" Brock screamed. "And Craig too!" Hamilton added. "Quick, Pikachu, use 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu's cheeks sparked wildly as it readied its attack. "Pikachu, stop!" Misty screamed.
Pikachu looked back with confusion. "She's right! If you launch a 'Thunderbolt', you might injure those Croagunk!" Dawn exclaimed. "So…what do we do?" Ash asked. Wake suddenly appeared in front of them. "You just leave this to old Crasher! It's my duty as the Pastoria…" Wake started searching his pockets frantically, but found nothing.
"My Pokéballs! Of all the absent-minded maneuvers, I can't believe I left my Pokéballs at the gym!" Wake yelled. Ash, Misty, and Dawn exhaled with exasperation. "Fine, then I'll take it on! Misty calls Gyarados!" Misty exclaimed.
Misty's water-dragon roared upon release, and stared up at the giant mecha with rage. "Aah! Gyarados!" James squealed, hiding himself from the water-type's gaze. "You have a Gyarados too?" Wake asked. "Yep, I sure do!" Misty replied proudly. "I don't care how big dey get, dis bad boy can still give you a lickin'!" Meowth exclaimed. The button was pushed yet again, and the tongue shot out and wrapped Gyarados up, leaving it helpless.
"Oh no, Gyarados!" Misty cried. "Alright contestant Croagunk, it looks like we have no choice but to fight!" Wake yelled. The hundreds of Croagunk attending the festival all charged their giant, mechanical counterpart, and started punching, kicking, and doing everything in their power to knock it down.
But the mecha merely shook them off, and started collecting them all in its giant mechanical belly. "I won't allow them to steal our precious Croagunk, no way! Krissy, shall we?" Nurse Joy said determinedly. Nurse Joy and Croagunk charged the giant robot to attack.
"Joy and a Croagunkette!" Jessie exclaimed. "Good runners, but useless." James said. The robot swung its arm, but Nurse Joy made an impressive jump to dodge its attack. "Use 'Vacuum Wave'!" Joy ordered. Krissy spun in mid-air, and fired a somehow heart-shaped attack at the robot. The incredible impact caused the mecha to release its captives from its tongue, and as it fell over, all the Croagunk in its belly made a break for it.
"Awesome!" Dawn cheered. "Joy and Krissy are incredible!" Brock exclaimed. "Ok Pikachu, NOW use 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered. "I want a piece of them too! Gyarados, 'Flamethrower'!" Misty ordered. The two attacks were launched, and the mecha blew up with a fiery explosion.
"Our charismatic, cutting-edge Croagunk's crumbled into a piece of Croa-junk." Jessie said. "And to think I used to like tongue-twisters back when I was young." James added. "Wish I'd kept up my karate lessons back when I was young…" Meowth paused.
"Then we wouldn't be blasting off again!" *Ping*
The crown that was sent flying into the air from the explosion, landed safely in the waiting palms of Crasher Wake. "Good. Our crown, beautifully safe and sound." Wake said. "Nurse Joy, Krissy was simply amazing!" Brock complimented.
"I have to say, you outdid my Craig!" Hamilton admitted. "(Giggle) We'll try not to go quite as hard as you next time." Nurse Joy said, sticking her tongue out at Hamilton. "Alright sports fans! In light of the fact that Nurse Joy's Croagunk saved all our beloved Croagunk, what say we make Krissy this year's winner?" Wake yelled. The crowd roared their approval.
"And what do you say Brock?" Wake asked. "Oh, it's more than alright with me." Brock replied. "Me too! Hey, without Krissy's help, there wouldn't be a festival!" Hamilton added. Without any further delay, Wake presented Krissy with the crown and declared her the winner.
"Nurse Joy, I'm happy to crown your Croagunk as this year's champion." Wake said. The crowd cheered loudly for the winners. "Congratulations Nurse Joy." Brock said. "Thank you Brock, and thanks for trying to help." Nurse Joy replied. "Oh, it was nothing, really." Brock said. "You know, I never got the chance to repay you, how about after we clean this place up, you join me for a festival dance?" Nurse Joy offered.
"You…want to dance…with me?" Brock asked excitedly. "It's the least I can do." Nurse Joy replied. "I…I…" Brock fainted on the spot. The thought of Nurse Joy actually wanting to dance with him willingly was too much for his bulging heart to handle.
"Are you alright?" Nurse Joy asked. Misty came up and grabbed Brock's wrist. "Don't worry; he'll be raring and ready to go soon." Misty reassured. Misty dragged the love-stricken Brock away, and rejoined Ash next to Crasher Wake.
"Misty, your Gyarados must be extremely well trained to be able to use 'Flamethrower', I'm impressed." Wake said. "Thanks a lot! It sure took me a while to get it going though." Misty replied. "Nevertheless, I'm extremely impressed by your abilities." Wake said. "Thanks." Misty replied. "And you young man, it looks like you've done such a fine job of raising your Pikachu, I'd be proud and happy to accept your gym battle challenge." Wake said. "Wow! Wake, you mean it?" Ash asked excitedly. Wake laughed heartily. "Of course Ash, but today we've still got a festival to celebrate, how about tomorrow?" he suggested.
"I'll be there!" Ash exclaimed. "And now if you'll excuse me, I've got to start the dance!" Wake said. "Seeya then Wake, I'll just party the night away!" Ash called out. "Now, ladies and gentlemen, time for our Pokémon dance!" Wake yelled from atop the drum tower.
Brock had by now come back to his senses, and was enjoying his dance with Nurse Joy, who actually seemed to be enjoying Brock's company. "Well Mist, it's not exactly Maiden's Peak, but whaddya say we go and dance?" Ash offered. "It'd be my pleasure." Misty replied. "How about you Dawn, wanna come dance too?" Ash asked. "That's alright, you two go ahead." Dawn replied.
"Try not to embarrass me Ash." Misty said teasingly. "Oh come on Mist, I'm not that…" Ash stopped talking, as he gazed at Misty in the moonlight. In his own mind, she was wearing the exact same kimono she wore at Maiden's Peak, which was one of the few times in the old days that he had acknowledged her beauty.
"Ash, you alright?" Misty asked. Ash shook himself from his fantasy and smiled at her. "Yeah, I'm alright, come on, let's dance!" Ash exclaimed. As if replaying history with switched roles, Ash grabbed Misty's hand and ran to the dance floor, where the two joined in with the rest of the crowd.
After much dancing and snacking, the group, accompanied by Nurse Joy, finally headed back to the Pokémon Center, where they proceeded to get their room for the night. "One room for four please." Brock said wearily. Nurse Joy handed Brock the key to their room, and then handed him a kiss on his cheek. "Thank you Brock." she said. Brock's face now bore a huge grin, and he then fainted on the spot, grin and all.
"Oh good grief Brock." Misty face-palmed. "Hang on, I'll fix this." Ash said. Ash reached into Brock's Pokéball belt and called out Happiny. "Happiny, you mind carrying Brock to our room?" Ash asked. Happiny smiled and nodded, and then lifted Brock up the stairs to their room. "G'night Nurse Joy, thanks for everything." Dawn said. "You're very welcome." Nurse Joy replied.
The group of tired teens reached their room and took turns changing into their pajamas. "(Yawn) What time is it anyway?" Dawn asked. "Past curfew, that's for sure." Brock replied. "Feels like it's 3:00 A.M." Ash said. "(Yawn) Actually, it's 1:00 A.M. It just seems later cause we're exhausted." Misty replied.
"Get some sleep guys, Wake'll be waiting for us tomorrow." Brock said. Brock and Dawn got into their individual bunks, while Ash and Misty went and shared the bottom bunk on the other side of the room. Not even Dawn bothered to comment; Ash and Misty's closeness was growing more and more with each passing day, and she didn't want to embarrass them too badly. Besides, she was too tired to think of anything clever.
Ash and Misty cuddled together and smiled at each other. She kissed his nose and then buried her head into his chest, nuzzling it to get into a comfortable position. Ash responded by kissing the top of her head and tenderly stroking her back. It wasn't long before the soft breathing of the water-type trainer was heard. He looked at her lovingly, and placed his head onto the pillow so that his nose was only centimeters away from her fruity smelling hair.
Ash felt as if he and Misty were the only ones in the room, and in the warm atmosphere that Misty's presence created for him, he quickly fell into a deep and peaceful sleep.
The next morning, Misty woke up to find that no one else was awake except for her. "Geez, you'd think my body would let me sleep in, just this once." she thought. She tried to turn and see what time it was, but she quickly blushed when she found that Ash had securely grabbed her around the waist in his sleep, and showed no signs of letting go.
"(Giggle) I love you too Ash. But if we don't get moving, you'll miss your gym battle." Misty thought. She tapped his shoulder to bring him to consciousness. It worked…kinda. "(Groan) Pikachu?" Ash said, mistaking Misty's touch for Pikachu. Pikachu gave a groggy squeak in response. Misty kissed his nose, which brought him to full consciousness. He smiled and released her from his grip so he could stretch. "Morning Misty." he said in mid-stretch.
"Good morning to you too sleepy-head." Misty giggled. "Man, that festival sure was something." Ash said, as he rubbed the sand out of his eyes. "C'mon Ash, wake up faster! We've gotta get some breakfast and do some last minute training!" Misty exclaimed. Ash narrowed her eyes at her. "Why are you so perky right after waking up?" Ash asked. "It's better than being a mope, that's why." Misty replied.
Ash shrugged and walked into the bathroom to change into his regular clothes, and then came back out to find that he and Misty were still the only ones awake. "What time is it anyway?" Ash asked. "It's 9:30, why?" Misty replied. "Don't you think we should get Brock and Dawn up?" Ash asked. Misty smiled and entwined her fingers into his. "I'm in no rush." she replied. Ash smiled back and squeezed her hand softly.
The now fully awake Pikachu hopped out of the bed and hopped onto Ash's shoulder to greet them. "Pika Pikapi, pika Pikachupi." (Morning Ash, morning Misty.) Pikachu said. "And good morning to you too Pikachu." Misty replied, allowing the small electric mouse to jump into her arms for a tight hug. Pikachu squealed with glee in response.
Ash, Misty, and Pikachu walked down to the Pokémon Center lobby, where Nurse Joy was busy with some paperwork. "Good morning you two." Nurse Joy said. "Morning Nurse Joy." Ash and Misty replied. "Say, where's Brock and his Croagunk?" Nurse Joy asked. "Still asleep, we're only up because I have a battle with Wake soon." Ash replied. "In that case, make sure you get a good breakfast, because Wake will be really tough to beat." Nurse Joy said. "Don't worry Nurse Joy, I'm gonna do some last minute training with Misty, so I'll be ready to battle when Wake shows up." Ash replied.
"Either way, good luck to you." Nurse Joy said. "Thanks." Ash replied. With that, the couple walked to the Pokémon Center cafeteria, where they treated themselves to a breakfast of French toast and sausages.
Afterwards, they went outside to warm up their Pokémon for the oncoming battle. "Turtwig, Buizel, come on out!" Ash yelled. The two Pokémon popped out of their balls. Turtwig greeted Ash cordially, while Buizel merely crossed its arms and looked away. "Alright Misty, who do you have for us this time?" Ash asked. "You'll see…Misty calls Gyarados!" Misty threw out her Pokéball, and Gyarados emerged with a mighty roar, which even Buizel couldn't help but flinch at. "Waah! Why Gyarados, Misty?" Ash asked nervously. "Because last night, I remember Wake asking me if I had a Gyarados too, which means that he probably has one waiting for you." Misty replied.
"In that case, Pikachu, get in there!" Ash exclaimed. Pikachu confronted the large dragon with sparking cheeks. "Since I'm going to be as gym leader-like as possible, you have the honor of going first!" Misty exclaimed. "Alright Pikachu, let's start off with a 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu launched the attack, which nailed Gyarados with a direct hit.
"Alright, now use 'Iron Tail'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu charged the sparking Gyarados with a steel-hard tail. "Use 'Protect'!" Misty countered. Gyarados was suddenly enveloped by a green shield, which completely negated Pikachu's attack. "Alright, use 'Hydro Pump'!" Misty ordered. Gyarados fired an ultra-powerful stream of water at the vulnerable Pikachu, who landed back on the ground with a soaking wet splash.
"You ok Pikachu?" Ash asked. Pikachu shook itself dry, and eyed its opponent with determination. "Alright, use 'Volt Tackle'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu charged ahead with an electric aura surrounding it, readying itself to knock out Gyarados with one hit.
"Use 'Hyper Beam'!" Misty countered. Gyarados charged the ultra-powerful attack in its mouth, and fired at the incoming lightning bolt. "Jump and spin to dodge!" Ash countered. Pikachu leaped into the air and spun to avoid being nailed by the beam.
Now with an extra twist of power in its attack, Pikachu hit Gyarados dead-on with the attack, and it fainted on the spot. "Way to go Pikachu!" Ash cheered. Turtwig cheered as well, but Buizel seemed preoccupied with something else.
"Good job Gyarados, take a break." Misty said, returning her most powerful Pokémon to its ball. "Nice job with that attack guys, it hit in mid-air!" Misty exclaimed. "Thanks, I think we'll be using that spinning move a lot more now!" Ash replied.
"And now for my next Pokémon…Misty calls Vaporeon!" Misty called out her newest Pokémon, who stood at battle-ready upon release. "Alright Buizel, you're up!" Ash exclaimed. Buizel had not heard, for he had his back turned the whole time Pikachu and Gyarados were sparring, and was warming himself up by punching the air.
By this time, Dawn and Brock had just come outside with all of their Pokémon. "What took you guys so long?" Misty asked. "Ask Brock." Dawn replied. Brock said nothing, as he had a goofy grin on his face. "Uh, Brock, you awake?" Ash asked. Brock didn't respond. "I'll snap him out of it." Misty said.
Misty called out Azurill, who formed in her arms and squealed upon release. "Azurill sweetie, would you mind bringing Uncle Brock back to reality?" she asked sweetly. Azurill gave an affectionate smile to its mother and squirted a soft 'Water Gun' at Brock's face.
Brock panicked and started swinging his arms wildly at the incoming water. "Earth to Brock, come in Brock." Ash joked. The group laughed at the all wet Pokémon Breeder. "It took me forever to tear him away from Nurse Joy." Dawn explained. "My sweet…sweet Nurse Joy." Brock said dreamily. "Brock, if you zone out on us again, it'll be Gyarados that gets you wet this time." Misty warned.
"Alright, alright. So, what's the status on the training?" Brock asked. "Pikachu and Gyarados just had a sparring match, and we were about to get going with Buizel versus Vaporeon." Ash explained. "But I think Buizel has his own training in mind." Dawn pointed out, as she watched Buizel continue to punch the air.
"Yeah, Buizel's sure training hard." Ash said. Suddenly, Buizel leapt into the air, did two mid-air kicks and then did a backwards somersault, just before landing, taking a deep breath, and then going back into its usual crossed-arms stance.
"Wow…Buizel seems different than before." Dawn said. "You're right; Buizel's got a whole new level of focus for our next gym battle." Ash said. "Yeah, since the battle against Maylene was a draw, Buizel wants to make sure it wins this time around." Misty added. "And how do you know that?" Dawn asked. "As a water-type master in training, I have to be able to read what water-types are feeling, that includes Buizel." Misty explained.
"Well, since Buizel's doing his own thing, whaddya say to another round Pikachu?" Ash asked. Pikachu pumped his fist with determination. "Alright Vaporeon, let's do it!" Misty exclaimed.
"Pikachu, get in close with a 'Quick Attack'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu ran ahead towards Vaporeon, who stood steady as Pikachu charged it. "Use 'Blizzard'!" Misty countered. Vaporeon launched a freezing wind at Pikachu, who was stopped in its tracks.
"Don't forget about the surprise ice-type attacks!" Misty warned. "Right…Pikachu, use 'Iron Tail' and jump up!" Ash ordered. Pikachu used an 'Iron Tail' to spring high up into the air and avoid the remainder of the 'Blizzard' attack.
"Use 'Water Pulse'!" Misty ordered. Vaporeon fired the energized water-ball at Pikachu, who was still in mid-air. "Use that 'Iron Tail' and break it up!" Ash countered. Pikachu swung its tail and chopped the 'Water Pulse' in half with a powerful 'Iron Tail'. "Impressive!" Misty exclaimed. "Now, 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered.
Pikachu fired, but immediately regretted it, as the attack flew over Vaporeon's head and headed straight for Misty. "Pikachupi!" (Misty!) Pikachu cried. Misty ducked to avoid getting fried, but in the process, she had left Buizel to get nailed by the powerful electric attack.
"Are you ok Buizel?" Dawn asked. Buizel turned its head slightly, but not enough that the group could see it growling with fury. "Buizel, sorry about that, it wasn't on purpose." Ash apologized. Pikachu tried to apologize as well, Buizel wouldn't hear it.
Buizel jumped off the wall it was standing on and stared down Pikachu with an angry grimace. Sensing a fight coming on, Turtwig and Vaporeon held the angry water-weasel back from Pikachu. But a too-hard shove knocked Buizel backwards, only fueling its rage.
Buizel growled at the three Pokémon and prepared to launch a 'Sonic Boom' in vengeance. "Stop Buizel!" Ash yelled. Buizel ignored Ash's cry and launched the attack anyway. As was his custom, Ash reacted on impulse and leaped in front of Pikachu, Turtwig, and Vaporeon to protect his and Misty's Pokémon.
"Ash!" Misty cried. Ash landed on his back after the 'Sonic Boom' struck his mid-section. And Misty wasted no time kneeling down to tend to him. "Oh no." Brock said sullenly. "Ash, are you alright?" Misty asked worriedly.
Ash groaned, but then sat up and smiled at his water-weasel. "That was great Buizel; make sure you focus just like that in the gym battle!" Ash exclaimed. Buizel looked away and crossed its arms with frustration.
"Pikachu upset Buizel, and that just makes things much more difficult for the rest of the Pokémon." Dawn said. "I guess that does show how serious Buizel is about battling. But it's the teamwork between Buizel and the others that's got me worried." Brock said.
"Good morning!" Wake had come from behind the group of teens and given them a loud greeting, which badly startled them all. Wake laughed heartily at their startled reactions. "That's good, you're awake now!" he boomed.
Misty helped Ash up to his feet, and then they looked up at the gentle giant named Wake. "Morning Wake!" Ash exclaimed. "Please, don't scare me like that." Dawn said. "Well, since our party boy had such a great time last night, I thought I'd come to you!" Wake said, slapping Ash's shoulders friendlily. Ash smiled sheepishly and sweat-dropped. "So Ash, you all set?" Wake asked. "Yep, the whole team's focused and ready to go, right you guys?" Ash said.
Ash looked back at his Pokémon, and what he saw instantly brought a frown to his face. The whole team felt tense after the fight that had taken place. And Wake himself noticed the tense atmosphere between Ash's Pokémon.
"You see, Buizel got upset with Pikachu, and it ended up turning into a fight." Dawn explained. Wake pondered the situation for a few moments. "I should've just taken that hit." Misty said guiltily. "Come on Misty, nobody would've expected anyone to just take it." Brock said. "I've got an idea." he said. "Wake, I wouldn't do anything hasty." Misty said nervously.
Buizel opened one eye as Wake walked up to him, and then opened the other eye to stare up at him. "Well, I like that face! Like to battle, do you?" Wake asked. Buizel responded with a low growl, but kept his cool demeanor. "Little buddy, today you're going to battle a good friend of mine…come out…Floatzel!" Wake threw out a Pokéball, and the evolved form of Buizel emerged and actually brought intimidation to Buizel. "Floatzel, check it out!" Ash said, pulling out his Pokédex.
"Floatzel, the sea-weasel Pokémon, and the evolved form of Buizel. It's flotation sac developed as an aid in chasing aquatic prey, Floatzel can also carry people on its back." the Pokédex chirped.
Buizel growled at its evolved form, and then looked past it, shouting at Ash determinedly. "Ok Buizel, I'm right there with ya!" Ash exclaimed. "Now that's the kind of attitude I like, whaddya say we continue this party at the gym?" Wake boomed, laughing heartily and slapping Ash's back.
"You got yourself a deal!" Ash replied. The group called back their Pokémon, and made the short walk from the Pokémon Center to Wake's gym. When they entered, they gasped in awe at the sight. "Welcome to my gym!" Wake boomed.
"Amazing! That water looks so clear; it makes me want to just jump in." Misty said. "Maybe after the battle then." Wake replied with a laugh. "Ok, I'm gonna hit the field!" Ash exclaimed. "Very well, see you in a few minutes." Wake said, disappearing into the shadows of the gym corridor. "Good luck big guy." Brock said. "Same here." Dawn added.
Brock and Dawn climbed into the stands, giving Ash and Misty a moment. "Thanks for all that training Mist, I feel totally prepared now!" Ash exclaimed. "Just remember not to get too cocky, otherwise I'll have a field day with you." Misty warned teasingly. Ash chuckled and put his hand behind his head. "I'll keep that in mind." he said.
"Good luck Ash." Misty said. "Thanks." Ash replied. Misty came close and gave Ash a good luck kiss on his nose before joining Brock and Dawn in the stands. "Alright…let's do this thing!" Ash thought, fully energized by Misty's presence.
Ash charged towards the gym corridor, where he awaited the referee's announcements. "Wow, this is such a beautiful water-type gym." Dawn said. "It's also tricky though. The key in any water-gym is to be able to use those islands floating on the water, if you can't; it's really hard to win." Misty replied, showing off her water expertise.
"The referee appeared and announced Ash and Wake. "In the blue corner: the challenger, Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town! And in the red corner: the gym leader of Pastoria Gym, Crasher Wake!" he announced. Wake threw off his cape, revealing a mountain of muscle. "Ok, Crasher Wake is in the house!" he yelled.
The referee called out the usual gym battle rules: three Pokémon each and only Ash could substitute Pokémon.
"As the leader of the Pastoria Gym, it is my privilege and responsibility to see just what kind of power and skill you and your Pokémon have! Gyarados, on the water!" Wake called out his water-dragon, who roared menacingly upon release.
"Gyarados huh? Good thing Misty had us fight hers this morning! Pikachu, get in there!" Ash exclaimed. Pikachu hopped onto the nearest platform and stood on all fours in battle-ready stance. From the stands, Buneary was wearing her cheerleader outfit, and was cheering for Pikachu with enthusiasm. Pikachu got out of battle-stance just for a moment, so he could wave back at Buneary, who was surprised by Pikachu's response and blushed ever so slightly. "Pikachu eh? Good, looks like we're ready. Now give it everything you've got!" Wake boomed.
"We never do anything less!" Ash yelled back. The referee signaled the battle to begin. "Alright Pikachu, use 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu fired, and the attack hit Gyarados dead-on. "Bulls-eye!" Ash exclaimed. "Wow, they're looking great!" Dawn cheered. "But look again!" Misty said. Dawn did look, and after the attack finished, Gyarados roared as if nothing had happened.
"That 'Thunderbolt' didn't do a thing!" Ash exclaimed in surprise. "But…but how?" Dawn asked in shock. "Gyarados must have incredible stamina to tolerate Pikachu's 'Thunderbolt' like that." Brock said. "Not even my Gyarados can handle that much power, Wake and his Gyarados must train really hard to pull that off." Misty added.
"Your strategy to take on my water-type with an electric-type is correct. Of course my Gyarados isn't going to take that lying down! Let's go!" Wake boomed. Gyarados dove underwater and swam towards the small electric-type. "Now use 'Dragon Rage'!" Wake ordered. Gyarados emerged from the water and fired a blazing ball of energy. "Pikachu, break that move up with 'Iron Tail'!" Ash countered. Pikachu jumped up and slashed the attack in half with a powerful 'Iron Tail'. "He did that with me this morning!" Misty exclaimed.
"Use 'Bite' and don't let it get away!" Wake ordered. "Use 'Volt Tackle'!" Ash countered. Still in mid-air, Pikachu went into a diving stance and fell down toward the incoming Gyarados with a sparking, electric aura. With a huge explosion, Pikachu nailed Gyarados with a direct and powerful strike. "Alright! A great shot!" Ash cheered. "What? But that 'Volt Tackle' hit in mid-air!" Wake exclaimed in shock.
Gyarados had taken all it could handle, and amidst the ashes of the explosion, it fainted with a huge splash. "Awesome job Pikachu!" Ash cheered. Pikachu winced a bit at the recoil damage, but ultimately shared its master's enthusiasm.
"Wow! What a move!" Dawn exclaimed. "Me and Ash practiced that this morning, I knew my Gyarados would be a good warm-up." Misty said proudly.
"Gyarados, thanks. You did your best. As for you, the way you used the speed from Gyarados' fall with that 'Volt Tackle' was incredible!" Wake said. "Alright Wake, thanks a lot!" Ash replied. "Time for our next battle! Quagsire, on the water!" Wake yelled, throwing out a Pokéball.
"So his second choice is Quagsire." Dawn said, pulling out her Pokédex. "Quagsire, the water-fish Pokémon, and the evolved form of Wooper. "Known as quite dim-witted, it doesn't care when it bashes its head against rocks or the bottoms of boats." her Pokédex chirped. "Doesn't care huh?" Dawn said. "Sounds like something Brad would like." Misty joked.
"Since Quagsire is a part ground-type Pokémon, electric-type moves won't work. Pikachu, you take a break." Ash said. Pikachu complied and joined Ash on the battle platform. "Now, Turtwig, I choose you!" Ash called out his grass-type, who immediately jumped into battle-ready stance.
"Excellent strategy to come after my Quagsire with a grass-type. After you Ash." Wake said. "Turtwig, 'Energy Ball'!" Ash ordered. Turtwig fired, and on impulse, Quagsire dodged the attack. "Just barely a scratch!" Dawn exclaimed. "That thing sure is slippery!" Misty added. "Ok Quagsire, in the pool!" Wake ordered. Quagsire complied and jumped into the water.
"They're attacking from the water are they? Turtwig, keep on moving around to confuse Quagsire!" Ash countered. Turtwig complied and used its trademark speed to jump from platform to platform; it even managed to run on the wall. "Wow…would you look at that speed…but none of that will help one bit against my Quagsire." Wake said.
"Sludge Bomb' now!" Wake ordered. Quagsire listened for Turtwig's footfalls, and then fired a direct-hit at the small grass-type. "Hey Turtwig, you alright?" Ash asked. Turtwig got back to its feet and eyed its opponent.
"So how did those two know we were gonna do that?" Ash asked. "Even underwater, my Quagsire's excellent hearing allows it to know just where Turtwig is every second! I'm afraid there's no place to hide in MY gym!" Wake yelled. "Then we'll just have to rely on dodging." Ash figured. "Quagsire, 'Ice Beam'!" Wake ordered.
"Here comes that ice-attack Ash!" Misty screamed. "Right! Turtwig, get moving!" Ash countered. Turtwig jumped over the leaping Quagsire, and just barely avoided being turned into a chunk of ice. "Keep using 'Ice Beam'!" Wake ordered. Quagsire continued to fire at the leaping Turtwig, and finally managed to nail Turtwig with the freezing attack.
"A direct-hit!" Dawn cried. "With a lot of power!" Brock added. "Quagsire, 'Sludge Bomb' again!" Wake ordered. Quagsire fired while Turtwig was still stunned. "Now, Turtwig, return!" Ash yelled. Turtwig was recalled into its ball, just before the attack bombarded the platform.
"Smart. That was an excellent decision." Wake said. The onlookers sighed with relief when Ash recalled Turtwig. "That Quagsire can use 'Ice Beam'." Dawn said. "I warned Ash about that. Most water-type gym leaders teach their Pokémon an ice-type move to counter the grass-types that they come with." Misty said. "This is obviously going to put pressure on Ash." Brock added.
"In that case, I'm going with a water-type! Buizel, that's you!" Ash called out Buizel, who glared at its opponent upon release. "You can do it Buizel!" Dawn cheered. Pikachu cheered from next to Ash, but upon hearing the encouragement, Buizel looked back and shot an icy-glare at the electric-type.
Pikachu told Buizel to pay attention to the battle and not him, but Buizel refused to let Pikachu have the last say and shot back with an angry reply. "Oh no, Buizel's still mad about getting fried earlier." Misty said. "If Buizel doesn't relax, Ash doesn't stand a chance." Brock said. "Buizel, you know you're battling Quagsire, remember?" Ash said warningly.
Buizel turned around, but its anger was still there. "Ok, Buizel, 'Sonic Boom', go!" Ash ordered. Buizel fired the shock waves at Quagsire, who didn't even flinch from the impact. "What the?" Ash cried. "That's not going to do at all. Use 'Ice Beam'!" Wake ordered. "Big mistake Wake!" Misty cheered.
"I think we'll use some of that 'Ice Beam' too! Buizel, 'Aqua Jet', now!" Ash countered. Buizel charged ahead and was enveloped in the icy-attack. "Perfect!" Dawn cheered. "What's going on?" Wake asked in shock. "Get ready for an 'Ice Aqua Jet'!" Dawn exclaimed. Buizel smashed into Quagsire's mid-section, and Quagsire immediately fainted after sliding backward on its back.
"Nice job Buizel." Ash congratulated. Buizel smiled and crossed its arms confidently. "That was fantastic!" Dawn cheered. "Yeah they put together a great combination!" Brock said. "And now that Wake's down to only one Pokémon, everything's sure going Ash's way!" Dawn exclaimed. "It seems that way, but don't forget who Wake's last Pokémon is." Misty said.
"Quagsire, excellent. Time for a good rest. Nice Ash, you've really given me an enjoyable battle! Your speed and combinations are all first-rate, and that deserves respect!" Wake boomed. "Thanks Wake!" Ash replied. "And now for my final Pokémon…Floatzel, on the water!" Wake threw out a Pokéball, and his final Pokémon emerged on the platform.
Floatzel gave a battle cry, and Buizel gave a low growl in response. "I know that's Buizel's evolved form, but I'm sure it'll work out fine. You can do it Buizel!" Dawn cheered. "I don't think it can." Misty whispered to Brock. "Neither do I, but let's see what Ash does." Brock replied. "Buizel, use 'Aqua Jet'!" Ash ordered.
Buziel charged its evolved form with incredible speed. "Bounce it back!" Wake countered. Floatzel's flotation sac inflated to an enormous size, which kept Buizel from causing any damage. "What's going on?" Dawn asked. "Oh no, Floatzel's defense is too tough!" Ash exclaimed worriedly. "Ha ha ha ha! I'll tell you, Floatzel's floatation sac can get big enough for a person to ride! Even a super-strong move like 'Giga-Impact' wouldn't have any effect either! Pretty powerful stuff, eh?" Wake said.
Buizel growled furiously. "Then how about this? Use 'Water Pulse'!" Ash ordered. Buizel fired the energized ball of water, but all Floatzel had to do was punch it, and the attack disintegrated. "Floatzel's so strong!" Dawn said fearfully. "It…just punched it." Misty said in shock. "Now we'll just have a turn. Use 'Razor Wind'!" Wake ordered.
Floatzel launched a sharp crescent at its devolved form, who landed in the water from the impact. "Buizel, no!" Ash cried. "That was a double-bladed 'Razor Wind'!" Dawn exclaimed. "This'll be tough. They're both water-types, and Floatzel's evolved from Buizel. Ash is at a disadvantage if Buizel stays in." Brock explained. "Ash, hurry up and get Buizel out of there!" Misty screamed. Upon hearing that, Buizel glared at Misty furiously, which made her slightly nervous.
"Cool it Buizel." Ash warned. Buizel hesitated, but eventually focused back to Floatzel. "I don't think Buizel will let Ash take it out." Dawn said. "But Ash could switch to Pikachu or Turtwig and finish it now." Misty said. "We won't give up! Use 'Water Gun'!" Ash ordered. Buizel fired, and Floatzel merely blocked it off. "Water-types moves aren't going to beat us!" Wake yelled. "Buizel's about more than just moves!" Ash yelled back.
Buizel leaped towards Floatzel to attack. "Intercept it!" Wake countered. Floatzel merely stepped out of the way and punched Buizel in the back. "Oh no, Buizel!" Dawn cried. "Come on Ash, wake up and realize you're in trouble!" Misty exclaimed. "He's battling a gym leader; he can't win on pure power!" Brock added.
"Floatzel, it's time for 'Bulk Up'!" Wake ordered. Floatzel complied and glowed in a red-aura. "What's 'Bulk Up'?" Ash asked. "It raises attack and defense stats, which means he's planning to finish it now!" Brock yelled. "Come on Ash, switch to Turtwig or Pikachu!" Misty screamed.
Floatzel dove into the water and chased after the swimming Buizel. "Buizel, 'Sonic Boom'!" Ash ordered. "Use 'Razor Wind'!" Wake countered. The two attacks fired, and a huge pillar of water shot out of the water when the attacks collided. "Buizel, think of the water as your friend and then attack!" Ash yelled. "In and out of the water, now we'll see which trainer has the better connection with their Pokémon!" Wake boomed.
On its own instincts, Buizel inflated its collar and stopped cold, leaving Floatzel to swim ahead of it. Buizel then went into an 'Aqua Jet' and rammed into Floatzel's mid-section. Buizel then followed up with a 'Water Pulse', which was fueled by the water it was submerged in.
The 'Water Pulse' shot Floatzel out of the water, and it pushed Floatzel all the way up to the ceiling. "Now THAT'S a 'Water Pulse'." Ash said. "What a move! Buizel incorporated the pool water perfectly!" Brock exclaimed. "I'm speechless! Ash seems to overcome any disadvantage thrown his way!" Misty added.
"Don't count your winnings just yet! Use 'Ice Fang'!" Wake ordered. Floatzel blasted out of the water pillar, and fell down bearing its fangs. "Sonic Boom', go'! Ash countered. Buizel fired, but Floatzel dodged and bit down on Buizel with freezing fangs. "Oh no, another ice-type move!" Misty cried. "We won't lose!" Ash yelled determinedly, "Use 'Water Pulse'!"
Buizel broke free, and fired the energized ball of water. "Bounce it back!" Wake countered. Floatzel inflated its sac, and bounced the 'Water Pulse' back at Buizel, who took the full brunt of the attack. "Hey Buizel, you ok?" Ash asked worriedly. "Buizel, get up quick!" Dawn screamed. Buizel did get up, but when it opened its eyes, they were glowing purple.
"B-Buizel's confused!" Misty cried. "What?" Dawn screamed. "Razor Wind', now!" Wake ordered. Floatzel launched the double-edged attack. "Come on Buizel; intercept it with 'Aqua Jet'!" Ash countered. In its own mind, Buizel heard Ash say to turn and take it. So it turned its back and took the full brunt of the attack, knocking Ash over in the process.
"But…how did Buizel end up confused?" Dawn asked. "Water Pulse' can confuse the foe, but I've never seen it confuse the user like that." Misty replied. "That just goes to show how much stronger Floatzel really is. Ash has been improvising this whole time." Brock added. "Buizel, how about NOW you take a break?" Ash suggested. Confused and in pain, Buizel complied.
"Alright then Turtwig…" Ash was cut-off by Misty, who screamed from the bleachers. "Ash! Floatzel can use 'Ice Fang', remember?"
"I would listen to her if I were you." Wake said. "Misty's right. Ok then Pikachu, get in there." Ash said. Pikachu nodded and leaped into battle-ready. "Buizel, let's leave the rest up to Pikachu. Pikachu, Floatzel took a lot of damage from battling Buizel, so let's finish this battle up right now!" Ash yelled.
"Don't be too sure." Wake warned. "Alright! 'Thunderbolt'!" Ash ordered. Pikachu leaped and fired the electric-attack. "Use 'Whirlpool'!" Wake countered. Floatzel quickly formed an enormous 'Whirlpool' and fired it at the lightning bolt.
"Not even Piplup can make a 'Whirlpool' that big!" Dawn exclaimed. The attacks collided, and electrified drops of water went flying in all directions. One of them struck Buizel, which snapped it out of its confusion.
"Volt Tackle'!" Ash ordered. "Razor Wind'!" Wake countered. Floatzel fired in front of the charging Pikachu, and the explosion from the platform's destruction sent Pikachu flying into the air. "Pikachu, no!" Ash cried. "Use 'Ice Fang'!" Wake ordered. Floatzel launched a close range ice-type attack at the small mouse, who took the full brunt of the attack.
After much difficulty, Pikachu stood up, only to wince in pain. "Pikachu! (Gasp) What's on Pikachu's back?" Ash yelled. "It looks frozen!" Dawn exclaimed. "Poor Pikachu's got a chunk of ice on its back, like freezer burn!" Misty added. "That's a side effect of 'Ice Fang'!" Brock explained.
"You see Ash, my amazing Floatzel is no ordinary water-type Pokémon…it's the strongest water-Pokémon!" Wake boomed. "I'm willing to bet Misty could beat you in a water-type showdown!" Ash yelled. "Maybe she could, but right now you're the one battling." Wake replied. Ash growled.
Buizel began tugging on Ash's leg to get his attention. "Buizel, your confusion wore off! Pikachu's in trouble, so can you get back in the battle?" Ash asked. After a quick one-on-one discussion, Pikachu and Buizel graciously agreed to switch places. "Oh, excellent teamwork!" Wake exclaimed.
"Hey Pikachu, switch with Buizel now!" Ash yelled. Pikachu and Buizel exchanged high-fives as they switched places, and then Buizel fired a soft 'Water Gun' to break up the painful ice chunk on Pikachu's back.
"Wow, look what Buizel did!" Dawn exclaimed happily. "Finally, Buizel and Pikachu are friends again." Misty said with relief. "Thanks a lot Buizel." Ash said gratefully. "Show him what you've got Buizel!" Misty cheered. "You hear that Buizel? This battle's all in your hands!" Ash added.
"That's wonderful, seeing true friendship between Pokémon. So, Ash, bring it all on!" Wake boomed. "Ok Buizel, use 'Aqua Jet'!" Ash ordered. "Ha, you can't defeat Floatzel with water-type moves! 'Ice Fang', go!" Wake countered. The two attacks collided with an explosion. "Why didn't 'Ice Aqua Jet' activate?" Dawn asked. "Probably because 'Ice Fang' is a physical attack, so it's like running into something." Misty explained.
"Destroy where they stand with 'Razor Wind'!" Wake ordered. Floatzel complied and fired. "That's the same way it used that move before!" Dawn exclaimed. "Jump above Floatzel!" Wake ordered. Floatzel leaped over the smoke, ready to finish Buizel off, but was shocked to find that Buizel had disappeared.
"What the?" Wake yelled in shock. "Alright Buizel, knock Floatzel down with 'Water Pulse'!" Ash ordered. Buizel leaped out of the water and held the 'Water Pulse' against Floatzel's belly. The attack detonated and Floatzel was sent flying, and then it fainted.
"They won, they really won!" Dawn cheered. "That was amazing! All that damage and they still hung in there!" Brock added. Misty ran out of the bleachers to embrace her boyfriend in a congratulatory hug. "Congratulations Ash!" Misty exclaimed, hugging Ash tightly. "Thanks Misty, but I owe it all to you and Buizel." Ash replied.
"As always, great job Floatzel…witnessing Buizel dive underwater like that during the explosion was something to see, they're quite a team." Wake said to himself.
After the celebratory cheer, Ash and Co. joined Wake outside the gym, where Pikachu and Buizel shook hands and made up. "Friends again." Misty said with relief. "It's nice to see everyone making up." Dawn added.
"Ash, you did a masterful job combining each of your Pokémon's abilities, great effort, requiring the cooperation of Pokémon and trainer alike. I was quite moved. You should be very proud!" Wake said. "Gee thanks, but I couldn't have done it without Misty training us all this time." Ash said. "Nah, I didn't do much, you and your Pokémon did most of it." Misty replied.
"And here's the proof that you were victorious at the Pastoria Gym. The Fen Badge." Wake said. Ash graciously accepted the badge from Wake and thanked him. "Alright! We just got…the Fen Badge!" Ash cheered.
"And now where will you go?" Wake asked. "How about the Pokémon Center to see Nurse Joy?" Brock asked excitedly. Croagunk appeared and jabbed Brock to the ground. "Ahh, there's that incredible Croagunk. Come back next year for the next festival ok?" Wake said. Croagunk croaked in a laughing matter, and the rest of the group followed.
After Brock came back to his senses, the group waved goodbye to their new friend, and they walked into the sunset, on the road of Sinnoh.