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"Butts"- Humans speaking
"Butts"- Pokemon speaking
'Butts'- thoughts
"Butts"-Pokedex entries/TV commentary
A Haunting First Loss
Misty: I can't wait to get to Vermillion City. They have a luxury cruise ship and I have to see that!
Ash: *mumbling* That's nice, Misty.
It had been 3 days since Ash's gym battle at Cerulean City, earning him not only 2 badges, but also allowing Green to evolve to his next stage. However, ever since they started their trip to Vermillion, Ash has been a little…. Down in the dumps.
Misty: *elbows Ash* Are you even listening to me?
Ash: *jolts up* Huh? Oh… Sorry, Misty. What were you saying?
Brock: Someone has his head in the clouds today. What were you thinking so hard about?
Ash: The Vermillion Gym. I was trying to figure out how to beat Lieutenant Surge's Raichu…
As Ash told them, both Brock and Misty noticed Ash looking slightly nervous when he said the word 'Raichu.'
Ash: We need to end the fight quick, hit it fast and hit it hard. After thinking about it, Cobalt would be my best bet since he's the only one of my Pokemon with a Ground type move, noww how should we…
Cobalt: Ash, calm down. We have a week or so to think up a strategy.
Cobalt knew that he, along with the team, knew this Gym was going to give Ash a bit of a problem, especially after he had seen his face when he mentioned Lieutenant Surge's Raichu.
Misty: Getting some more Pokémon might be a good idea. And you'll have to train really hard.
Ash: I know I will. Lieutenant Surge was a commanding officer in the war. He's really, really good, especially with Electrics and he's got to know a ton of battle strategies. He was actually one of my idols when I was younger. I really respect him.
Brock: That's how you knew about him even though you didn't know the Leaders of the Cerulean Gym.
Ash: Yeah. I've always looked up to him. He's a regional hero.
As they rounded a bend in the road, a young boy with a Rattata by his side came up to them.
Boy: Hey. Would any of you like to have a battle with me?
Ash: Sure. Hey, Cobalt, you up for a battle?
Cobalt: For you, Ash. Always.
The boy looked intimidated by the new Pokemon as he stepped forward, but continued anyway.
Boy: Rattata, go!
The Rattata stepped forward, growing at the Grovyle.
Boy: Use Quick Attack!
Ash: Take the attack and use Counter, Cobalt!
Cobalt stood his ground as the Rattata slammed into him, only for the Riolu to knock the mouse back with double the force of the Quick Attack. Due to the Rattata's low level, it was a one hit KO.
Boy: Oh no! Rattata! *returns Rattata* You did a good job, Rattata. *to Ash* You're a great trainer. I bet you could even beat AJ.
Ash: AJ?
Boy: Yeah. He lives right over there. *points to distance* AJ trains savage Pokémon. He even built his own Gym. And he's never lost a single match!
Green: Hey, that sounds cool! Let's do it, Ash!
He was eager for a battle, since he had only recently evolved and kept wanting to use his new strength. Ash too was eager. AJ sounded extremely tough, and Ash wanted to see if he could beat him. Plus, maybe he could figure out why the name seemed familiar.
—-
Following the directions the kid had given them, Ash, his friends, and his team walked over to the Gym. It looked extremely professional and well made as an electronic scoreboard overhead read 98 Wins to 0 Losses.
Misty: Wow. Ninety-eight wins. This guy's going to be tough.
Ash: I know. But I'm still going to give it a shot.
?: Are you my next victim?
They looked over to the opening of the tent to see a kid with black and green hair, an orange and black shirt, and blue pants approach them.
Ash: Are you AJ?
AJ: Yep, that's me. You looking for a match?
Ash: *nods* Yes, please.
AJ: Well, prepare to lose. Beating chumps like you is my hobby.
AJ taunted as he gestured Ash and his friends into the gym. Ash bit back the retort that desperately wanted to come out, doing his best to shrug the insult off. He had learned the hard way that insults only got worse if he rose to them. Ash's Pokémon glared at AJ, and Brock and Misty exchanged concerned glances. The Gym was well designed inside as well, with a dirt battle arena.
Ash: Wow…
Misty: Not too shabby at all. This is almost as well built as one of the official League Gyms.
A Butterfree flew down to them, grabbing AJ's backpack off the ground and taking it into the tent.
Ash: What's in the backpack?
AJ: The wild Pokémon I just caught. There's a bunch more in the tent. And then some.
Ash: Can I see them after the match?
AJ: I mean, if you want.
He climbed up the steps to the arena, carrying a brown whip.
AJ: So which Pokémon are you going to choose for my ninety-ninth win?
Ash decided not to respond to that and just walked up into the arena.
AJ: This will be a one on one match. Are you ready, kid?
Though he was confident, AJ was wondering what was up with this kid, and why he wouldn't rise to his taunts. Most other challengers did, and it usually worked one of two ways. They would either give AJ a halfway decent challenge, or they would be so angry and arrogant that they'd do something incredibly stupid. So, what would this kid do?
Ash: I'm ready whenever you are.
AJ: Let's get started then.
He then threw out a Poké Ball as his starter, a Sandshrew, appeared.
Ash: A Sandshrew, huh?
Ash murmured, looking over at his team as he brought out his Pokedex.
Pokedex: Sandshrew, the Mouse Pokemon. A Ground type. Sandshrew's carapace is hard enough to deflect bullets, which allows this Pokemon to curl up and protect itself when attacked. It buries itself in the desert when it sleeps.
Looking at his team, any of them could be a good match for them, bt Green had the type advantage. And he could tell that his Grovyle really wanted to be in this battle, so…
Ash: Green, I choose you!
He gave Ash a two-fingered high five as he stepped onto the ring, his foot twisting as he prepared to charge.
AJ: Sandshrew, go!
AJ ordered, cracking his whip near the Sandshrew, which made Ash frown slightly at the boy.
Ash: Green, use Iron Tail!
Green ran at the Sandshrew, jumping as he reeled his head back. Noticing his tail had been shortened from the evolution, Ash worked with him to improvise a way to use Iron Tail, smacking the enemy with the leaf on his head as it turned metallic.
AJ: Rollout!
Ash: Sidestep!
As commanded, Green quickly stepped to the side, scraping the Sandshrew with his metallic head leaf.
AJ: Good tactic, but not good enough! Sandshrew, turn around!
Unbelievably, Sandshrew turned on a dime, heading straight for Green.
Ash: Block it with Leaf Blade!
Both attacks connected, and both Pokémon went flying backward. Green fell on his back, but got up quickly.
Green: Damn, this guy's fast…
AJ: Use Earthquake, Sandshrew!
Ash: Green, hurry, jump!
Green got off the ground just in time, flipping over while Ash had to grab onto the side of the arena to keep himself from falling…. But AJ was prepared for this tactic.
AJ: Use Rollout while he's in the air!
Sandshrew slammed into Green, sending him flying. He landed hard on the ground about ten feet away, clutching his side.
Ash: Green!
Green: Ow… I… I'm not out yet, Ash! I can still fight!
AJ: Use Rollout again, Sandshrew!
Ash: Stop it with Energy Ball!
Green did manage to land the Energy Ball on the Sandshrew, but the force of the Sandshrew's attack was too much for him. Green fainted as AJ's scoreboard went from 98 to 99. Ash rushed onto the battlefield to check on Green, spraying one of the Revives he had bought using his Gym winnings and a Super Potion on her.
Green: *groans* Did anyone get the name of that Rhyhorn?
Ash: I'm sorry, Green. I messed up with the strategy. You did great out there though.
He was disappointed because he lost, but more scared of how Greem would react to it. What if he hated him?
Green: Eh. It's no big deal. *Ash helps him up* Losses happen. Dad always said that you learn more from your losses than your wins. We'll just have to train harder for the next time, right?
Ash gave a small smile as he nodded, gripping his hand with Green's. He was glad Green wasn't mad at him.
Ash: I can put you back in your Poké Ball so you can take a rest if you want.
Green: Naw man, I'm good.
Like Cobalt, he hated being inside Poké Balls, though he put up with it for Ash's sake. It was boring and lonely in there, plus tight spaces suck. Ash nodded, understanding the problem, and put the Poké Ball back. He sprayed another Potion on her, just to be safe, then turned to AJ as he handed over the prize money.
Ash: Thanks for the battle.
AJ: …That's it? No whining? No protesting? No accusing me of cheating?
Ash: You didn't cheat. You beat me fair and square.
And a teacher at Ash's school had always said that whining and protesting if you lost was the sign of a very poor sport, and that a good trainer should always have good sportsmanship, win or lose. Both Ash and Gary had got a very firm talking-to once about whining because they lost a match. The man had been one of Ash's favorite teachers, and Ash took his words to heart.
AJ stared at Ash for a minute, feeling some respect for his latest challenger. The kid might be inexperienced, but at least he was a good sport. And Ash had given him a decent challenge.
AJ: What's your name again?
Ash: I'm Ash.
AJ: Well, Ash, I have to admit you're not half bad. Your Grass type over there actually gave my Sandshrew a workout. Plus, that method of using Iron Tail with that short of a tail? Genius! But I can see where you made your error. You trained on Attack and Speed, but neglected Defense, didn't you?
It was a rookie mistake that most trainers made, especially when they were first beginning. They taught their Pokémon new attacks and leveled them up, but forgot the importance of teaching them how to take a hit. Ash had to admit that was true. He helped his Pokémon with learning new moves and boosting their Attack, and he worked especially hard on Speed, but besides having his Pokémon battle against each other, he did not do much training on Defense.
Ash: How did you get your Sandshrew's Defense so high?
AJ smiled, he kind of liked being a role model to the less bratty younger kids.
AJ: Come in and see.
They followed AJ inside, but unbeknownst to the group…. A certain trio was spying on them from the trees during the battle.
—-
The inside of the tent was a lot bigger on the inside than it looked from the outside. The Butterfree from earlier was battling with a Beedrill, and a Rattata was jumping through flaming hoops. At the center of the tent was a massive pool. AJ turned to his Sandshrew and slipped some sort of device over its head.
AJ: Now it's time for some serious training! Get in the pool! *cracks whip*
Ash: Hey!
Ash was about to charge forward and stop AJ from hurting the Sandshrew. Brock grabbed Ash's arm, not wanting his young friend to get into a fight with a kid that was much bigger than he was while defending a Pokémon that may not even need defending. This made Ash pause and stop to think. The whip, while being snapped near Sandshrew, hadn't actually touched it. And Sandshrew, who was climbing up to the diving board, didn't seem upset or scared.
AJ: Now, dive!
Sandshrew: On it!
Sandshrew then leapt into the pool face-first, coming back up for air. Cobalt clapped at the sight, making the Sandshrew thank him
Ash: Won't the water hurt your Sandshrew?
Ash was worried, but was relieved and surprised when Sandshrew climbed out, unfazed.
AJ: You're looking at the only Sandshrew in the world that's strong enough to withstand water. *to Sandshrew* Get back in the water!
Ash flinched, both at the tone AJ used with his Pokémon and his harsh training methods. Cobalt too looked a little uncomfortable, as did Psi. Green seemed a little unsure, but not as worried as the others. Sandshrew was completely unbothered though, and simply climbed back up on the diving board and made another spectacular dive.
AJ: Good job.
He pointed to an area where two Rattata were waiting, and Sandshrew hurried over. Ash noticed the device Sandshrew was wearing; multiple metal straps connected to a circular metal piece on Sandshrew's stomach.
Ash: What's he wearing?
Psi: It's a strength intensifier. It's to measure a Pokemon's endurance and show how to improve their power and stamina.
AJ explained just as Psi did, Ash internally sighed in relief since his secret wouldn't be in jeopardy.
Brock: Who invented it?
AJ: *proud* I did. It's my own secret weapon for unleashing a Pokémon's powers.
He turned to where Sandshrew was curled into a ball, rolling between two Rattata.
AJ: Sandshrew, pick up your pacing!
Ash: Why are you so tough on Sandshrew? It seems… you know….
AJ: Mean? I know. But I have to be tough. But I ask no more of Sandshrew then I do of myself. The very best.
Ash: But you aren't nearly as tough on any of your other Pokémon.
AJ: That's because Sandshrew was the first Pokémon I ever caught. *faraway look* I will never forget that moment. We promised to do whatever it took to become the greatest Pokémon trainer of all time. Nothing would stop us from reaching our dream no matter how difficult our path. Enduring harsh storms and raging winds, we've sacrificed everything to achieve our dream. And it worked. We're an unbeatable team. And when we reach one hundred wins in a row, we're going to compete for Badges and become the greatest Pokémon Master there ever was!
Ash: Why are you waiting for one hundred wins to compete for the Badges?
AJ: Because I don't want to be merely "good" but the best. And if I want to become a Pokémon Master, I have to train like a Pokémon Master.
Ash nodded. He saw what the guy was doing, but AJ's methods still bothered him a little. Did AJ really care about his Sandshrew, or just about winning?
Brock: Your Pokémon are all in great shape, AJ. What type of food do you give them?
AJ: My own special recipe. C'mon, I'll show ya.
AJ told him, opening a large cabinet filled to the brim with jars of labeled Pokémon food. As AJ and Brock discussed Pokémon recipes, Ash walked over to Cobalt, who was lying down and watching AJ's Pokémon train. Checking to make sure AJ wasn't listening, Ash crept up to Cobalt's side and whispered.
Ash: What do you think about this?
Cobalt: I think that strength intensifier looks uncomfortable. Plus, it looks really drab.
He says this as he watched Sandshrew and Green, who had joined in on the training, lift weights while Psi was talking to the Beedrill.
Ash: Yeah, I agree, but I meant AJ's training methods. Do you think they're a little… harsh?
Cobalt: How can I not? That's the first thing in this hell gym I took note of!... But his Pokémon seem okay with it, and that's what counts, right?
However, neither he or Ash noticed AJ watching them out of the corner of his eye.
Ash: I guess you're right.
Psi, having only been a short distance away, overheard their conversatiob.
Psi: If it would please you, Ash, I can ask them if they are okay with AJ's training.
Ash gave a slight nod, not wanting AJ to overhear. Psi nodded as he teleported to the weights, whispering the situation to AJ's Sandshrew, which made him approach Ash.
Sandshrew: Hey, listen. I appreciate the concern and I know AJ's methods seem harsh, but he's a good trainer. He cares about us. And we care about him.
Ash let out a soft sigh of relief. At least he knew AJ was no abuser.
AJ: Hey, Ash, can you come over here for a sec?
Ash walked over and AJ led him to a private corner of the tent, Cobalt coming with just in case.
AJ: You're one of those Speakers, aren't you?
Cobalt gasped in horror as he and Ash backed away a step nervously.
Ash: I-I don't know what you mean.
AJ: I mean, you can understand Pokémon. Also you're a terrible liar.
Cobalt: He gets that a lot.
Ash was horrified. He had accidentally revealed his ability to a complete and total stranger! How could he have goofed this bad? Ash's other Pokémon saw his distress and rushed over, thinking AJ was threatening him. Misty and Brock noticed as well, and went over to see what was going on.
Misty: What's the problem?
Ash: *whispers* He knows.
Misty/Brock: *panicked* WHAT?!
Green simply groaned in annoyance as he turned the leaves on his left arm into a leaf blade.
Green: Great, now we gotta kill him.
Cobalt: What?! Green, no!
AJ: Woah, woah. Chill out. It's okay. My little cousin can understand Pokémon too. I'm not going to tell if that's what you're scared of.
Ash relaxed a little and so did his Pokémon. Cobalt could tell that AJ was telling the truth, and reassured the other three.
Ash: Thanks. Misty and Brock know, but I'm trying to keep it a secret from the rest of the world. I guess I'm not very good at it. But how were you able to tell?
AJ: I started to suspect when I noticed you whispering to *points at Cobalt* your friend here. The fact that you kept looking over to see if I was watching meant you had something to hide. Your nervousness is what ruined your charade. And when my Sandshrew walked over and started saying something to you, I knew for sure. Don't act so obvious that you're hiding something, and be careful where you're talking to your Pokémon if you want to keep your ability secret.
Ash: I can't believe I messed up that bad at keeping a secret.
AJ: Eh. Most people either won't notice or won't care.
AJ smiled at Ash, he reminded him a bit of his little cousin, of whom he was very fond.
AJ: A lot of people talk to their Pokémon even if they can't hear the responses back like you can. Plus, some Speakers have even gone public with their ability and don't bother to hide it. I think you're wise to try to keep it a secret, though. Criminal gangs like Team Rocket could try to exploit it, so be careful.
Ash: I will.
Inside the tent, AJ rang a bell as he turned to his Pokemon.
AJ: Okay, you wimps get a fifteen minute break!
Once again, Ash flinched at the tone, even though he now knew AJ cared about his Pokémon. All of AJ's Pokémon laid down to rest, panting. All except two fell asleep. Sandshrew and another Pokemon in the corner facing a punching bag, a purple formless wisp with floating hands. Misty grew nervous at the sight of the Pokemon while Ash turned to AJ as he showed off his inventions while scanning the ghost type.
Pokedex: Haunter, the Gas Pokemon and the evolved form of Gastly. A Ghost and Poison type. Haunter can watch opponents by hiding in walls and can phase through anything in its way. Those Haunter licks with its gaseous tongue become victims of unrelenting trembling.
Ash: Hey, AJ? Who's that over there?
AJ: Oh, you mean the Haunter? He's not mine.
Ash: He's not? Well, why is he here?
Misty: M-M-MY thoughts, ex-x-x-x-xaclty….
AJ: I dunno. He just showed up one day and startd hitting that unching bag. And so… He just never went away.
Misty: Oh, why did it have to be a ghost? I hate ghosts!
Haunter: Hey, can you stop yelling! I'm trying to train here!... *to himself* At last, Yami, the mightiest of all ghost types, is now facing his biggest opponent yet! He starts off with a Shadow Punch attack!
With a shadowed fist, the Haunter smacked the punching bag, where it then broke in half. He celebrates his victory, only to become saddened that he broke his only punching bag.
While Green and Psi stayed with Ash, Cobalt became curious about something else as he went over to Sandshrew as Sandshrew was taking his strength intensifier off.
Cobalt: Huh, really odd piece of equipment. Would you mind if I try that on to see how it works?
Sandshrew: *shrugs* Knock yourself out.
He hands the strength intensifier to Cobalt, who tries to pull the stretchy metal bands of the suit over himself, but fails, getting himself tangled. He tried to struggle free, only getting himself more stuck, until he was in the shape of a ball. Rolling around frantically and hoping to find Ash so that his trainer could rescue him. Sandshrew laughed, rolling into a ball just like Cobalt.
However, unknown to them, a large red ball rolled into the tent, where it then rolled over Sandshrew as a pair of gloved hands grabbed him and pulled him. The ball sped off, nearly bumping into the side of the tent on its way out as a familiar Brooklun accented voice kept groaning in pain. The bell rang, and AJ walked out of the back area, followed by the others.
AJ: Alright, time's up! Back to work, all of ya!
His team woke up and quickly went back to their exercises. However, Yami was still sad about his punching bag. Suddenly, Ash and Green walk over, hooking up a new punching bag in its place. Yami was confused at this, but smiled in gratitude. But just as he was about to punch it, AJ chimed in, sounding worried and confused.
AJ: Where's Sandshrew? And what's your Pokemon doing?
Ash saw the blue ball that was Cobalt rolling around madly, which made him run over to him worriedly as Green tried to detangle him.
Green: Cobalt! What happened to you, dude?!
Psi and for some reason Yami rushed over to see what was up, though the Haunter simply laughed at the sight. Both Ash and Green tried tugging at the metal, but the only result they got was Cobalt squeaking in pain.
AJ: Here, give it to me.
AJ then pressed the secret lever that opened the strength intensifier and untangled Cobalt. He set him gently on the ground and the dizzy Cobalt tried to take a few steps before falling before Ash scooped him up and hugged him.
Ash: Are you okay, Cobalt?
Cobalt: Can someone stop the room please? I want to get off. *shakes head*
Yami: *laughs* Well, they say curiosity killed the Meowth, but nothing about lwtting the jackal have a ball! *laughs*
Ash: Seriously, Yami, that was the worst pun I've ever heard.
Yami: Well, they can't all be zingers….. *shocked* Wait…. Am I hearing things or did you just call me by my name and say my pun was bad?
Ash: I can understand Pokémon. Long story. I'll explain later. *to AJ* Thanks, AJ.
AJ: No problem. *to Cobalt* Hey, Cobalt's your name, right? Have you seen Sandshrew?
Cobalt: *nods "no"* The only thing I saw was my own stomach for…. Who knows how long.
AJ: You haven't?!
AJ now started to look more afraid than anyone had ever seen him, calling out throughout the gym for his partner.
AJ: Sandshrew! Sandshrew, where are you?!
Misty: Maybe he had to go outside or get a drink of water.
AJ: His drinking bowl and litter box are inside.
Yami: It's true. It's hilarious.
He went outside the tent anyway, looking around. But Sandshrew wasn't anywhere to be found as Ash and the others joined him.
Ash: Did you find him?
AJ: No…
Ash: AJ, Sandshrew wouldn't just leave you. When we were talking, he told me that you were a good trainer, that he cared about you and you cared about him. He wouldn't have said that to me if he was running away.
AJ gave a faint smile at that, but his expression soon turned back to worry.
AJ: But where could he be? It's not like Sandshrew to just wander off.
Brock: Maybe one of the other Pokemon saw something.
AJ: They were asleep when we came out of the back room.
Yami: Actually, I might have seen something. But it was so weird that I thought I was seeing things. Some giant red ball with arms and legs grabbed Sandshrew and ran out of the tent. And there was this little blue ball that was rolling around screaming. Though the blue ball was real, so…
Ash relayed the Haunter's words to AJ as it was the only clue they had. But AJ looked at him strangely.
AJ: I KNEW I needed to add less Bluk Berries to your food…
Cobalt: Actually, there may be something to this. Who do we know that uses ridiculously stupid and convoluted plans to steal Pokémon?
Ash's eyes widened as he translated his Pokemon's words for AJ as he came to a realization.
Ash: Team Rocket!
AJ: You think Team Rocket grabbed my Sandshrew?
Misty: Who else would think up such a strange plan? We've dealt with them twice now. Let's just say their methods are off the wall.
AJ: *frantic* We've got to find Sandshrew! *into tent* Beedrill, Butterfree, patrol the air; see if you can spot any of them.
Ash: Green, help them, but be careful!
Everyone rushed off to search for AJ's kidnapped Sandshrew. Meanwhile, Team Rocket, who had run a short distance away, stopped to catch their breath while James was holding a garbage bag with pink gloves on.
Jessie: Those clowns will never find us.
James: I'm exhausted. You take the bag now.
Jessie: *sweetly* But a real gentleman always carries the bag.
James: Is that so? Well, as you know, I'm no gentleman!
Sandshrew burst out of the bag as they were fighting, knocking Jessie and James over, and rushing back towards his trainer, unknowingly dragging Meowth with him.
Meowth: No! No no, wait, stop! No! *to camera* I know you all are watching! HELP!
—-
As the group exited the tent, hoping to find Sandshrew, Sandshrew found them first, rushing towards them and accidentally knocking over Ash in his panic. Sandshrew leapt into AJ's arms, and AJ hugged him tightly.
AH: Sandshrew. I'm so glad you're okay!
Sandshrew licked AJ's cheek, happy to be back in his trainer's arms. AJ's other Pokémon and even Yami crowded around them, relieved that their friend was safe. Speaking of Yami, the ghost type helped the dazed Ash to his feet, Ash smiled to see AJ and Sandshrew reunited. Despite AJ's tough training methods, it was obvious that AJ cared for his Pokémon very deeply.
Rattata: Hey, what's this doing here?
One of AJ's Rattata prodded the unconcious Meowth that Sandshrew had dragged in with him, yanking at the gold coin on Meowth's forehead.
Ash: It's Team Rocket's Meowth.
Psi: Obviously.
Ash blushed, feeling a little stupid. But he probably shouldn't have got so close to Meowth, because when the Scratch Cat Pokémon opened his eyes, he panicked and clawed Ash right in the face. Ash cried out in pain, covering his face. As you can imagine, this enraged Ash's Pokémon.
Meowth: Hey, where am I? What's going on here?
Meowth barely evaded a Vacuum Wave from a very angry Cobalt, and was struck by several Leaf Blades from a pissed-off Green. He ran screaming, Ash's Pokémon and AJ's chasing after him. The oly one remaining was Yami, who was looking at Ash, and then displayed a small smile. Only this time, it was heartfelt.
Meowth: How am I going to get out of this mess?
Meowth wondered this aloud as a Psyshock from Psi missed him by millimeters. Suddenly, a welcome voice (to Meowth) announced in the open, revealing to be Jessie as James came onto the scene.
Jessie: Prepare for trouble!
James: Make it double.
Meowth ran up to Jessie and James, hiding behind them.
Meowth: Use the old motto!
Jessie: To protect the…
Psi: Will. You. Just. SHUT UP!
Those three had almost killed two of his closest friends; now they were out for blood. Ash's other Pokémon followed, shocked at the demeanor of the usually level-headed Kadabraa.
Jessie: Don't ever interrupt the motto!
Jessie released Ekans as James released Koffing. Ash was about to send in Cobalt to help Psi, when AJ blocked him.
AJ: I'll take care of this. They grabbed my Sandshrew; now I'm gonna get my revenge. Sandshrew, go!
Psi: You get the miasmic sphere, I get the serpentine?
Sandshrew: I have no idea what the means; so how about you get the snake, I get the gas ball?
Psi: ….Fine.
Jessie: Ekans, bind that Kadabra now!
Psi teleported away from the attack, and Ekans ended up tying itself into a knot, where it was knocked out in one blow as Psi used Psycho Cut.
Sandshrew: Nice!
Psi: Thank you. I believe it is your turn, my rodential compariot.
James: Koffing, Sludge Attack!
Koffing shot off a black ball of ooze, but Sandshrew rolled into a ball and spun, deflecting the sludge.
James: Meowth, don't just stand there! Do something!
Meowth ran onto the field, batting the Sandshrew ball around playfully while Psi just shook their head in annoyance.
Jessie: Stop pussy-footing around!
Meowth: Just "biting" my time.
Meowth then sank his fangs into the Sandshrew, then screamed in pain as he chipped a tooth on Sandshrew's shell.
AJ: Finish them! Sandshrew, Fissure Strike!
Sandshrew: You might want to get off the ground.
Psi started floating in mid-air as Sandshrew leapt in the air and spun, diving headfirst towards the ground, punching it. A crack began forming, small at first, but quickly getting larger. One of Ash's feet was near the crack and he almost fell, but Green grabbed him, pulling him to safety.
Dazed and bruised, Meowth, Koffing, and Ekans pulled themselves out of the split as they then ran off.
Meowth: That's it! I forfeit the match!
Jessie: *runs after them* Come back here!
James: *follows Meowth* Meowth, where are you going?
Meowth: To write us a theme song!
Jessie: Not that again!
Psi: Um… What?
Green: I really don't want to know and I really don't care.
AJ: We did it! We reached victory number 100!
The scoreboard changed from 99 to 100. AJ cheered as Sandshrew hugged him out of joy. That was the second time the scoreboard had changed without any buttons being pressed on it.
Misty: How'd you change the scoreboard?
AJ: Remote control. Today, all our sacrifices and hard work have finally paid off! Now we can start winning our Badges!
Outside the gym, the group said goodbye to their new friend.
AJ: Once I come back here, I'll be the greatest Pokémon Master of all time.
Ash: Some day we'll meet again at the big Pokémon League competition.
AJ: Make sure you're in tip-top shape. Because I only want to beat expert trainers.
Ash: It's a deal. *as AJ walks off* But watch out! Next time, I just might beat you!
—-
That evening, Ash was quiet and contemplative as he snuggled into Green's side and scratched Cobalt's back as the Riolu sat on his lap, eyes closed in bliss. He watched Psi float with their eyes closed meditating near Misty, who was sitting on the picnic blanket reading a magazine she had brought, while Brock was fixing dinner. Brock left his pot of soup on the fire to simmer and walked over to Ash.
Brock: You okay? You've been quiet all evening.
Ash: Do you think I need to be more like AJ to become a good trainer?
Cobalt opened his eyes and stared at his trainer in shock. Psi heard the outburst, stopping their meditation, and went over to their trainer as Misty set down her magazine and listened.
Cobalt: Ash, you already ARE a good trainer. What makes you think you aren't?
Ash: I messed up today, and Green fainted because of it.
Green: Hey, I lost too. Does that make me a bad Pokémon?
Ash looked at Green in horror, thinking he wwas talking down on himself.
Ash: Of course not! You're an awesome Pokémon!
Green: And you're an awesome trainer. Like I said before, losses happen. They were more experienced than we were. We'll train, and get stronger and more experienced.
Brock: Ash, you don't need to be exactly like AJ to become a great trainer. Every trainer has a different training style, and personally, I don't think AJ's style fits your personality at all. If you want to learn how to improve your Pokémon's defense, I'll teach you some of my techniques, but don't try to be someone you're not.
Misty: And if you tried using a whip like AJ, you'd probably whack yourself right in the eye.
Psi: And frankly Ash, I am glad you are not AJ. I do not think AJ would put up with us and weirdness.
Ash: Oh, Psi, you know we love you, wierdness and all.
Cobalt and Green nodded, smiling at the Kadabra. Psi brightened at that and smiled back while Cobalt turned to Ash.
Cobalt: And Ash, win or lose, we'll still think you're the greatest trainer in the world. Speaker or not.
He knew that was why the loss had bothered Ash so much; that they'd think less of him or reject him for having lost a match. Mentally, he cursed Pikachu and Gary for bringing Ash's confidence so low that he feared his own Pokémon would reject him over a measly battle or a tiny mistake.
Cobalt: Oh, and there's another reason I'm glad you're not AJ. I'd really rather not get my head stuck in one of those stupid Strength Intensifiers again.
Ash burst out laughing, then managed to compose himself enough to tell Brock and Misty what Cobalt had said, which sent the whole group into fits of laughter. Once everyone calmed down, Brock went back to his soup and Misty to her magazine. However, Ash jolted up as he felt a ghostly presence poke his shoulder.
Ash: What was that?
Misty: What?
Ash: I just felt something tap my shoulder just now.
Brock: Maybe it was just the wind?
?: Or maybe there are spirits amok~...
Ash and his team froze as a shape rose from the ground, a few screaming from them, along with a shriek from Misty sounding off as the shape is revealed to be Yami, the Haunter from AJ's gym.
Yami: Hi…..
Ash: Yami? What are you doing here?
Yami: I followed you.
Ash: Okay…. But why? Did you just want to scare us?
Yami: Actually, I think I want to stick with you guys.
Ash: Wait, you… You want me to be your trainer? But why me?
Yami: As you probably could tell, I ain't from the area of AJ's gym. I left home so I could pursue my dream. I want to become the mightiest ghost type Pokemon ever. So, when I saw your team and how strong they were, I thought "Hey, maybe if I stick with this guy, I'll be stronger than I would working alone". So… Yeah. Oh wait. *face palms* Silly me. I never did ask you first. Do you want to be my trainer?
His fear-inducing eyes, though usually full of mischief and humor, were pleading and vulnerable, like he feared that Ash would reject him. But they were evaporated as Ash smiled at the ghost
Ash: I'd love to be your trainer, Yami.
Yami: Okay, but I uh…. I have a condition. You have to battle me first.
Ash: *nods* Deal.
As the ghost nodded, Ash took out his Pokedex, scanning the other information on Yami.
Pokedex: Haunter, the Gas Pokemon and the evolved form of Gastly. A Ghost and Poison type. Haunter can watch opponents by hiding in walls and can phase through anything in its way. Those Haunter licks with its gaseous tongue become victims of unrelenting trembling. This Haunter is level 23, Male, and has the ability Levitate. It knows the moves Shadow Punch, Venoshock, and Night Shade.
Ash: Ghost and Poison. It's a risk, but….. Psi, think you're up to it?
Psi: *nods* Very well.
Cobalt: And I'll act as referee! Now, this is a one on one battle with no substitutions. Take your positions! *both Yami and Psi do so* And battle…. NOW!
Yami started off with Venoshock, which Psi couldn't dodge in time. They grunted in pain as Yami inflated slightly before spitting a stream of poisonous liquid at them.
Ash: You okay, Psi?
Psi clutched their arm and wince, but nodded. Yami rushed towards them, about to use Shadow Punch.
Ash: Psi, use Teleport to get out the way, then use Psyshock!
Psi teleported away as Yami's fist was mere inches away from them before reappearing behind him and firing a bolt of psychic energy from their spoon, making Yami lose his altitude and fall to the ground.
Ash: Now use Psycho Cut while he's still getting up!
Psy wielded their spoon like a sword as they then swiped it and launched a streak of energy at Yami, knocking him back to the ground. He got a Night Shade in, though while they were close. Psi was hit by super effective damage and staggered a little, getting close to fainting. Ash knew he needed to end it quickly.
Ash: Psyshock, now!
With the last of their energy, Psi struck Yami as he was struggling to get up, and he once again hit the ground, not getting up this time as Ash then threw a Pokeball which sucked him in. Ash held his breath as it rattled once, twice, three times. Then it finally clicked and Ash picked it up.
Ash: Welcome to the family, Yami.
He let the Haunter out of his ball and after the Ghost type cheered greatly, Ash healed both his Kadabra and Haunter with the potions he bought with his earnings. Seeing Yami now happy with his new trainer, Cobalt and Green exchanged a playful glance, an idea sprouting on how to make him feel at home.
Cobalt: Hey Ash!
When Ash turned to look at her, the Riolu threw a soft clod of dirt at him, hitting him in the shoulder. The brothers were seen playfully smirking at him before Green ble a raspberry as they began to run. Laughing, Ash started running after Cobalt.
Ash: I'm gonna get you two for that!
Green: Like to see you try, Ashy!
He managed to get close to Cobalt and dived to catch him, only to have him dodge and land flat on his face.
Ash: I'm okay!
He then proceeded to get up and chase after a laughing Green, with Cobalt joining his trainer in the chase.
Yami: Hey, wait for me!
Yami laughed, grabbiing Psi by the arm as he dragged them into the fray.
Psi: Hey! Let me go!
Cobalt: *chases after Yami* I'll save you, Psi!
Brock and Misty watched with smiles on their faces. It was nice seeing Ash actually act like the 10-year-old kid he was. Misty and Brock let out their own Pokémon as well, and a huge game of tag started, which Misty eventually joined in on. After an hour and a half of playing, Brock called everyone over for supper, and the game was reluctantly put on pause. After dinner, the game started up again, Brock even joining in this time. It lasted until it was too dark to see, and after Ash managed to run facefirst into a tree, the game was called off, and everyone soon hit the sack….
However, Green had learned the hard way that apparently, ghost types don't really need to sleep. As when he was awoken by some mysterious presence, he woke yup to see Yami floating above his face and smiling ight at him.
Yami: ….What'cha dreaming about?
Green: I WAS dreaming that I was forced to watch both of my families being murdered….. *frowns* But now…. I kind of want to go back to that.
TO BE CONTINUED….