It's been two days since they arrived at Nacrene City. They spent two days traveling the path to Nacrene and no fuss that happened except when they bumped into Bianca, a new trainer who brought Ash his badge case that Professor Juniper forgot to give, accompanied by her friends Cheren and Hilbert – the very same Cheren and Hilbert that helped Daniel fight off Team Plasma.

"Bianca was actually accompanying the little girl as we fought off Team Plasma," said Cheren. Bopping his head, Hilbert added, "We're just accompanying Bianca here because we missed traveling with each other because her overprotective father didn't allow her to be a Trainer and join us in our gym circuit."

N's mind was whirling at how both described the way Plasma treated their Pokemon and the Pokemon they kidnapped. It was far from the Plasma his father told him about.

The group found out that Cheren was slated to open and lead a gym in Aspertia City – "Aha, that's why your name was familiar!" said Cilan – and Hilbert was just in for the ride since he failed to place at the Pokemon League.

"Why don't you try again?" questioned Misty to which Hilbert answered, "This is Bianca's time now! I'll be there to support her along the way!"

Ash and his friends turned to Bianca who was still rummaging for the badge case which caused Hilbert to fall flat on his face and Cheren to adopt a blank look. Chuckling, Cheren looked at Bianca softly, saying, "She's always clumsy and disorganized, but she's a great person."

The group had to agree after seeing Bianca's determination in catching the Minccino that stole Ash's badge case. Funnily enough, her quirk led her to catch the Minccino. Bianca also challenged Ash to a fight which resulted to Pikachu winning over her Pignite. Cheren and Hilbert promised Ash a battle one day before both groups continued on their separate ways.

After arriving at Nacrene, the group checked in the Pokemon Center to make sure the eggs are in perfect health and because Misty decided to send Staryu back to the Cerulean Gym. The group immediately set their sights to the Nacrene Museum which is also the gym – "Wow, Unova Gyms just have their own gimmick, don't they? Striaton's a restaurant and Nacrene's a museum. I wonder what's for the next gym," quipped Misty – only to find out it was close.

The group met Hawes, which told them the paranormal activity that caused him to close it temporarily. The group decided to stay the night, which was irrational to N, but the majority wanted to discover the truth.

Naturally, Misty and Iris were terrified out of their wits while Cilan was adamant that there was a scientific explanation to all this. N was admittedly spooked out but he was not scared despite what Zorua said, thank you very much. Lenora, the Gym Leader, arrived and uncovered the truth that a Yamask was causing the haunting because it couldn't get its mask back.

N was angered by this, naturally, but he was mollified when Hawes was sincerely apologetic about the whole thing. They waved goodbye to Yamask at sunrise which was when Ash challenged Lenora to a gym battle using Oshawott and Tepig, only to lose to Lenora's Lillipup and Watchog.

Thus why, in their third day in Nacrene, they were in the Battle Club training Oshawott and Tepig. Ash once again sent Rufflet and Gabite to the ranch in exchange for Buizel and Infernape to help Oshawott and Tepig in their training.

As all of them had met Infernape, Buizel was the center of attention who relished on it until Misty grabbed him in a hug and cuddle. The weasel was trying and failing to get off Misty. Misty, after having her moment, plopped Buizel gently to the ground. The weasel only had a moment of respite before being swept to a hug by Iris.

"Oh, look at you! You're so cute and cool!"

Iris got a blast of water in the face, but was still grinning as she let Buizel go.

"What very sleek fur! You take care of your Pokemon well, Ash!" said Cilan, which N silently agreed with, as Buizel let him look closely.

Ash rubbed his neck. "I'm pretty sure Tracey should get the recognition now that they're mostly staying at the ranch, but thank you!"

Hearing this, Buizel turned to Ash and ranted.

"Bui! Bui bui bui! Bui bui bui bui bui!" Don't just leave us off at the ranch! I want to battle!

N's curiosity was piqued, yet again. Ash held up his arms placatingly, saying, "All right, all right. Tell you what, after training Tepig and Oshawott, I'll find some trainer to battle here in the club. Sounds good to you?"

Buizel stopped for a moment and considered before nodding his head. Ash had already given Infernape permission to start with Tepig's training before beckoning Oshawott towards Buizel.

Ash crouched down to meet Buizel's eyes saying, "Hey, Buizel, I wanted to ask your help with Oshawott's training. We challenged Nacrene Gym and lost to Lenora. I figured your style is closer to Oshawott, so does Totodile for that matter, but you know how Totodile entails a different type of training."

Buizel looked blankly for a moment, as if remembering Totodile's kind of training before nodding determinedly at Ash. Buizel's eyes lit up with a passion for battling and found Oshawott's, which unnerved the latter. The otter let out a squeak when the weasel formed a fist, ice flickering into life and subsequently punched the fist to his other hand, before raising an eyebrow at Ash.

"Yeah! An Ice-type move would be great!"

Later, they all found out just how hard a taskmaster Buizel was especially after Oshawott developed an affinity to Aqua Jet. Buizel's eyes glinted maniacally as he performed an Ice Aqua Jet which awed everyone, including Oshawott. However, Buizel became irate as he realized that Oshawott wasn't opening his eyes during the attack.

"Hey, hey! What's the big idea, Buizel?" Ash asked as he stopped Buizel from jumping on Oshawott.

"Bui! Bui bui bui!" Buizel barked urgently, pointing a fin toward Oshawott. He's closing his eyes!

"What?" asked Ash, whether in confusion or clarification. This prompted all of them to look at Oshawott.

Buizel pointed emphatically at Oshawott, who was attempting the Aqua Jet technique again, this time with his eyes tightly shut. The otter's attack was still impressive, but the lack of visibility was clearly an issue for Buizel.

"What's got Buizel's tail in a twist?" Iris asked, raising an eyebrow as she glanced between the two Water-type Pokémon. Axew peeked out from her hair, equally concerned.

Misty, however, had already pieced it together. "Oshawott's eyes are closed," she observed, her voice calm but laced with urgency.

"What?!" Iris's eyes widened as she looked from Misty to Oshawott, who was zooming across the water with impressive speed but shaky aim. "How do you know that?"

Misty didn't answer immediately, her expression thoughtful. N, standing nearby, watched her intently. He could see that her focus wasn't just on the battle but on something deeper. Misty's experience with Water Pokémon was speaking louder than words.

Don George, who had been supervising the training session from the sidelines, nodded in agreement with Misty's assessment. "If that's the case, Oshawott will have a hard time perfecting Aqua Jet. He needs to see where he's going to control it properly."

"He's right," Cilan added. "Oshawott's lack of visibility will make it nearly impossible to execute the move with precision."

Ash's brow furrowed in concern. If Oshawott couldn't master Aqua Jet, he wouldn't push him into a battle. But the delay would mean they'd have to stay in Nacrene City longer than planned, and Ash wasn't thrilled about that. He wanted to keep moving, to keep pushing forward.

Just then, he felt a firm hand on his shoulder. Ash turned to see Misty standing beside him, her gaze steady and determined. She didn't need to say a word—Ash understood what she was thinking. They had been through enough together to understand each other even without words.

With a mutual nod, Ash and Misty began to strip together, preparing to enter the water.

"Wait—what are you both doing?!" squeaked Cilan, his face flushed with surprise. Iris and N exchanged equally startled glances, clearly taken aback by the sudden turn of events.

Misty tilted her head innocently. "Stripping?" she teased, her tone playful.

Ash snorted, nudging her with his elbow. "Stop messing with them, Mist."

Misty pouted, but the mischievous glint in her eyes gave her away. "Spoilsport!" she giggled.

Ash turned to the group, his signature grin spreading across his face. "We're going in. If Oshawott's going to learn to keep his eyes open, he needs to know it's okay to trust the water."

Without further hesitation, Ash and Buizel leaped into the pool, creating a huge splash that sent ripples across the water.

Misty, always one to add a dramatic flair, smirked as she prepared to dive in. "And what better way to learn than from Misty Waterflower?" she declared confidently.

With a graceful leap, she executed a perfect dive, her form so flawless it seemed time slowed for a moment. Mid-dive, she flashed a wink and a wide grin at the group. "Watch the magic of the world's greatest Water Pokémon Master!"

Everyone watched in awe as Misty entered the water with barely a ripple, her expertise evident in every move. Ash, Buizel, and Misty quickly swam over to Oshawott, who was still struggling with his Aqua Jet. With their guidance, Oshawott would soon learn that the water wasn't something to fear—it was his greatest ally.

Ash and Misty swam toward Oshawott, who was bobbing nervously in the water. Buizel was already there, circling the otter Pokémon with an encouraging look on his face. Oshawott glanced between them, his large eyes full of uncertainty.

Misty spoke first, her tone gentle yet firm. "Oshawott, I know it's scary, but you've got to trust the water. You can't let fear hold you back."

Ash nodded in agreement. "Misty's right, buddy. If you can keep your eyes open, you'll see where you're going, and your Aqua Jet will be a lot stronger. We're here to help you."

Oshawott looked at them, still unsure, but he trusted his Trainer and Misty. He took a deep breath, puffing out his chest a little as if steeling himself for the challenge.

Misty gestured to Buizel. "Watch Buizel, Oshawott. See how he moves through the water? He's relaxed, focused, and most importantly, his eyes are always open. He trusts the water to carry him."

Buizel demonstrated, swimming smoothly around the pool with his eyes wide open, cutting through the water like a sharp blade. He occasionally glanced back at Oshawott as if saying, See? It's not so hard.

Ash leaned in closer to Oshawott. "You don't have to be afraid. We're all in this together, okay? Just try it with us."

Oshawott took another deep breath and nodded. Misty smiled warmly and reached out her hand. "Let's start slow. Just float with me and keep your eyes open. I'll be right here with you."

Oshawott hesitated but grabbed her hand. With Misty guiding him, he started to float on his back, staring up at the sky. His eyes were open but still filled with a hint of fear.

"Good, Oshawott," Misty praised, keeping her voice calm and encouraging. "Now, let's try moving around a bit. Just follow Buizel, nice and easy."

Buizel led the way, swimming in a slow circle around the pool. Oshawott followed, still holding onto Misty's hand. At first, his movements were shaky, but with each lap, he grew more confident. Ash swam beside them, offering reassurance with a smile and an occasional thumbs-up.

"Great job, Oshawott!" Ash cheered. "You're doing it!"

After a few more laps, Misty gently let go of Oshawott's hand. "Try it on your own now. Remember, keep your eyes open and trust the water."

Oshawott took a deep breath and began swimming by himself, eyes wide open. This time, there was no fear—only determination. He followed Buizel, mimicking his movements, and for the first time, he didn't close his eyes. The water wasn't scary anymore; it was familiar, almost like a friend.

Ash's heart swelled with pride. "You're doing awesome, Oshawott! Now, let's put it all together."

Misty nodded in agreement. "Let's try Aqua Jet again, Oshawott. This time, focus on keeping your eyes open the whole time."

Oshawott positioned himself, determination burning in his gaze. He concentrated, water swirling around him as he prepared to launch his Aqua Jet. With a burst of energy, he shot forward, eyes wide open. This time, he moved with precision, cutting through the water like Buizel had, swift and powerful.

"Yeah! That's it!" Ash shouted, punching the air in excitement.

Misty grinned. "You did it, Oshawott! That was perfect!"

Buizel barked in approval, swimming up to nudge Oshawott affectionately.

Oshawott's eyes sparkled with pride. He had done it—he had conquered his fear and mastered Aqua Jet. And with his friends by his side, there was nothing he couldn't do.

Back on the sidelines, the rest of the group watched in awe as Oshawott completed his Aqua Jet with newfound confidence. The transformation was undeniable, and it left everyone buzzing with excitement. Pikachu was jumping up and down with joy at Oshawott's achievement.

Cilan was the first to speak, his eyes gleaming with admiration. "Simply incredible! Ash and Misty have such a deep understanding of their Pokémon. They knew exactly how to guide Oshawott through his fear and turn it into strength. The way they combined trust and technique—truly a recipe for success!"

Iris, arms crossed and a grin tugging at her lips, nodded. "I have to admit, that was pretty impressive. I didn't think Oshawott would be able to keep his eyes open like that, but they made it look easy. Ash and Misty are really something when they work together."

Axew, perched atop Iris's shoulder, let out an excited cheer. "Axew, axew!"

N observed quietly, his expression contemplative. "Ash's bond with his Pokémon is truly remarkable. He sees beyond their abilities—he understands their fears, their hopes, their potential. I'm beginning to understand why his Pokémon are so devoted to him."

Zorua noted that N's eyes shone with admiration. N then glanced at Misty, who he had a newfound respect, recognizing her role in the breakthrough. "And Misty's experience and insight were crucial. She wasn't kidding when she said she's a water specialist. She is quite remarkable in the water. Her connection to Water-type Pokémon is as deep as the ocean itself."

Don George, who had been observing from a distance, clapped his hands together with a booming laugh. "Ha! Now that's what I call teamwork! Oshawott's going to be a real powerhouse in no time. This is the kind of thing that makes training battles worth watching—seeing a Pokémon overcome their limits with the help of their Trainer and friends."

While the others continued cheering, in the water Ash turned to Misty as they swam back to land. Ash's eyes reflected deep admiration. "Wow, Mist. You were incredible. You've… changed. A lot. And it's great!"

Misty, caught off guard by the sincerity in his voice, felt her cheeks flush slightly. She let out a small laugh. "Thanks, Ash. I guess we've all changed a bit, huh?"

Ash nodded, his gaze unwavering. "Yeah, but it's different with you. You've always been strong, but now… it's like you've grown into who you were always meant to be."

Misty smiled softly, touched by his words. "I could say the same about you, Ash. You've always had that determination, but now, you really understand your Pokémon and your journey in a way you didn't before. You've become a great Trainer… and a great friend."

Ash felt a warmth spread in his chest, a feeling of deep connection with the girl who had been by his side through so many adventures. "It's all thanks to you, Misty. You were the first person who believed in me, who challenged me to be better. I wouldn't be here without you."

Misty's eyes softened as she looked at him, memories of their shared past flooding her mind. "We've come a long way, haven't we?"

"Yeah," Ash agreed, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "And we've got a long way to go."

The two shared a quiet moment, the cheers and laughter of their friends filling the background. It was a reminder of how much they had grown—not just as Trainers, but as people.

The group still chattered as the Misty got out of water. She could even hear the tail end of Cilan's insights and compliments to the both of them.

She chuckled as she joined the conversation. "Well, we've had our share of ups and downs, but we always figure things out together. That's what being a team is all about."

Ash, still in the water with Buizel, waved to the group, his usual enthusiasm shining through. "We couldn't have done it without everyone's support. And Oshawott—he really gave it his all!"

Oshawott, now back on the pool's edge, struck a triumphant pose, proudly puffing out his chest. But this was interrupted as Buizel shot him a spurt of water.

Oshawott narrowed his eyes. You…

Buizel smirked. Don't get too cocky, you're still miles ahead from me.

Oshawott stuck his tongue out at him before turning to look at Ash and Misty with gratitude and determination, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Iris laughed and called out teasingly, "Looks like Oshawott's found his groove! Watch out, Ash—he might just outshine you in the next battle!"

Ash grinned back, giving Oshawott a thumbs-up. "I wouldn't have it any other way!"

"Infernape! Tepig!"

Both Pokémon turned to see Ash, a wide grin on his face. After training with Oshawott, he immediately bounded towards their training room to check in on them. Seeing them training together brought a sense of pride to his heart.

Infernape gave a nod, acknowledging Ash's presence without breaking his stance. Tepig, on the other hand, bounded over to Ash, eager to show off what he had learned. Ash knelt down, rubbing Tepig's head affectionately. "You've been working hard, haven't you?"

Tepig snorted in affirmation, his eyes shining with excitement. Ash chuckled, then looked up at Infernape. "Thanks for taking care of Tepig. I knew you'd be a great mentor for him."

Infernape smiled and gave Ash a thumbs-up before motioning for Tepig to return to training.

"Just one more round, Infernape. Then, we're going to rest."

Ash stood back, watching as the two Fire-types resumed their practice with renewed vigor. Infernape and Tepig sparred together, their flames dancing in sync as they pushed each other to be stronger.

With Oshawott and Tepig's training session concluded, Ash set about finding a trainer for Buizel's desired battle. After a quick search around the Battle Club, he found a willing opponent—a young trainer namaed Kenji with a Sawk and Throh.

The battle was set up, Buizel and Infernape took their position on the field, excited to finally show off their skills. Both of them were eager to team up again after Sinnoh. It was clear to the group watching on the sidelines that Ash, as well as Buizel and Infernape, had a deep bond that manifested in their seamless teamwork on the arena.

The battle between Ash and Kenji was heating up. Buizel and Infernape stood their ground against Kenji's Sawk and Throh, both sides showing remarkable strength and determination. But the intensity of the fight was pushing everyone to their limits, especially Buizel.

"Buizel, use Aqua Jet!" Ash shouted.

Buizel shot forward like a torpedo, aiming straight for Throh, who was preparing to counter. The collision sent shockwaves across the battlefield, but as the dust settled, Buizel staggered back, clearly worn down by the relentless attacks from Sawk and Throh.

Kenji, seeing an opportunity, called out, "Sawk, finish it with Close Combat!"

Sawk charged at Buizel, fists flying with rapid, precise strikes. Buizel tried to dodge, but the barrage was too overwhelming. Ash's heart pounded as he watched Buizel struggle.

"Come on, Buizel, you can do it! Don't give up!" Ash encouraged, his voice filled with determination.

But just as it seemed like Buizel might be overwhelmed, something incredible happened. A fierce light began to surround Buizel's body, growing brighter and more intense with each passing second.

Ash's eyes widened in surprise. "Buizel…?"

The light intensified, and suddenly, Buizel's form began to change. The otter Pokémon grew larger, more muscular, and his sleek body took on a new, more powerful shape. The light burst forth, revealing Buizel's new form—Floatzel.

Misty's eyes sparkled with pride. "Ash's Buizel just evolved into a Floatzel mid-battle! That's incredible!"

"Floatzel!" Ash exclaimed, a mix of shock and excitement in his voice.

Kenji took a step back, clearly caught off guard by the sudden evolution. "No way…!"

Floatzel let out a mighty roar, the newfound power surging through him. His confidence was palpable, and he turned to face Sawk with renewed determination.

Ash grinned, seeing the fire in Floatzel's eyes. "Alright, Floatzel, let's show them what you've got! Use Aqua Jet!"

With his increased size and strength, Floatzel launched forward at blinding speed, his Aqua Jet attack now even more formidable. The water around him roared as he slammed into Sawk with incredible force, sending the Fighting-type skidding backward across the battlefield.

"Throh, use Seismic Toss!" Kenji shouted, trying to regain control of the battle.

But Floatzel was ready. Before Throh could grab him, Floatzel dodged with lightning speed and countered with an Ice Punch. The icy fist struck Throh hard, freezing the ground beneath him and slowing his movements.

"Infernape, let's wrap this up! Use Flame Wheel!" Ash called out.

Infernape nodded, igniting into a blazing wheel of fire and crashing into Throh, creating a massive explosion. The combined power of Floatzel and Infernape proved too much for Kenji's Pokémon, and both Sawk and Throh were unable to continue the fight.

Kenji stood in stunned silence as he recalled his Pokémon. "That… that was incredible, Ash. Your Floatzel is something else."

Ash smiled, pride swelling in his chest. "Thanks, Kenji. Floatzel, Infernape, you were both amazing!"

Floatzel, still adjusting to his new form, grinned at Ash, clearly thrilled with his evolution. Infernape gave him a congratulatory nod, acknowledging his newfound strength.

Cilan, ever the connoisseur, was quick to analyze. "Ah, such a perfect blend of power and strategy! Buizel's evolution changed the entire dynamic of the battle, just like a fine ingredient can transform a dish."

Iris was wide-eyed, her hands clutched to her chest. "Wow, Ash is really something else! Floatzel and Infernape are unstoppable together. That battle was so intense!"

Pikachu cheered excitedly from Ash's shoulder, his eyes shining with pride for his friend's achievement. "Pika pi!" Great job, Ash!

Pikachu nodded at Floatzel and Infernape. Look at you two dogs!

Infernape grinned. Right?

Floatzel barked in indignation. I resent that! I am a weasel!

Axew, perched in Iris's hair, clapped his tiny hands, bouncing up and down with glee. Meanwhile, Zorua, who had been watching closely, transformed into a tiny Floatzel in admiration, grinning playfully as he mimicked the new evolution.

This action made Floatzel even more frustrated.

Tepig was inspired by Infernape's strength. He stomped his hooves in anticipation, eager to grow stronger himself. Infernape looked at him and his eyes softened, before reaching out and rubbing the pig's head. You'll do well. I'm proud of you.

Oshawott, who had been shyly standing behind the group, peeked out with wide eyes. Seeing Buizel evolve filled him with awe, and he couldn't help but cheer, waving his scalchop in the air. "Osha!"

Floatzel raised his eyebrows as he grinned smugly. See, I'm still greater.

Oshawott's face fell flat, glaring at Floatzel. He growled. I'll beat you one day!

Floatzel grinned ferally. I'd like to see you try!

N was admittedly overwhelmed by everything, what with Pokemon loving to battle but he was now certain that this group was special. They were family. And they extended it to him. He was glad to be a part of it. Zorua nudged him from his ankles and N crouched to scratch at him.

"I'm happy, Zorua. Truly, I am."