A New Moon Rising Pokémon Saga: Kanto Journeys

by The Story's Shadow

A new hero and a new journey begins as a new young trainer, Dakota, sets off on his own Pokémon journey inspired by his hero, Ash Ketchum, and other influential people in his life. History follows a similar rhythm as Dakota faces challenges as he also battles against Team Rocket renewed in their hunger for power while also making lifelong friends with his starter, Rockruff.

6. Episode 6

(Here's the next episode to the story. Hope you all enjoy it! (Also, I've been thinking about rewriting my A New Breed saga from scratch because I haven't gotten that far into the second book and the first book wasn't that great in it's writing so I was thinking about rewriting it from the start though I left a poll up on my author's page to get everyone's personal feelings/choices on it. (I will do a similar poll for my True Heroes saga after I get enough feedback on my A New Breed one.) So let me know on there, they should be up by the time this episode/chapter is uploaded, please and thanks.))

Death Fury: Thanks.

MBS41: I appreciate the love and support. With this story it follows the anime and not the game, so I will be sticking with the anime worldbuilding (it was an interesting idea though). As for Dakota's age, I thought I said he was the same age as when Ash started his journey. Was that not clear? (Genuinely asking, sorry if the question came across as rude.)

H R C Stanley: Thanks. Well them talking was a part of the show.

Nobel Six: Thanks again.

Episode 6: Fun and Fury in the Forest

(Viridian Forest, the next day)

The limousine was parked on the side of a dirt road within the forest under some trees, the shade kept it as cool as possible. Within a few yards distance, a clearing opened up in the forest where Jason and the driver whose name they were told was Robert were setting up a table for an afternoon lunch. A small pond laid pristine a little over a yard away from the table.

Close by were electric skillets that were cooking food that Dakota was using and not too far was a smaller table with multiple bowls filled with Pokémon food that he'd also go to fix up. Both Dakota and Jason's Pokémon were out of their Poké Balls, waiting on their food. Jason's team waited around the table with Jason and Robert who had sat down after finishing the table.

Rockruff sat at Dakota's feet, smiling as he waited for his food. Magikarp floated in the pond nearby. Jason and Robert smiled as they watched Dakota cook, the former spoke up.

"I could've cooked, you know? I've had some training with some professional chefs."

Dakota turned to him, surprised.

"Really? What'd you fix?"

"Nothing overly fancy, just some standard restaurant recipes that are pretty popular for various customers."

"Your agent set that up?"

Jason's smile shifted with embarrassment as the memories came back to him.

"Y-Yeah, he thought it'd be funny to have friendly 'cooking competitions' with the chefs at the end of my time with them."

Robert and Jason's team laughed at this.

"Mr. Reagan shared with me some recordings of those events with me the other day."

"He what?!"

Robert and Jason's team continued to laugh. Swampert smiled as he gently patted Jason's shoulder.

"Swampert, Swamp."

Jason sighed, shaking his head.

"William never fails to come up with these jokes."

Dakota turned to look at Rockruff and Magikarp, both of whom shrugged in their own manners in response. The boy then returned to fixing up food and after several more minutes he finished. He prepared the plates and bowls for people and Pokémon.

After a few minutes, everyone began to eat and enjoy their food. Robert smiled widely.

"You're going to have to give me the recipe for these noodles, young man. I have to share them with my family."

"Sorry, family recipe."

"Perhaps your family could open up a restaurant?"

Dakota pondered on this.

"I'll talk to my mom about it."

"If you don't, I will."

Jason chuckled at this.

"It seems our friends are also enjoying their food too."

The three turned to see the pokémon chowing down on their food. Aggron held the bowl in both hands up to his mouth as he scarfed down the food. Charmeleon and Snivy kept picking and tossing food into their mouths with big smiles on their faces. Latios had taken a spot in some shade close by next to Alakazam who both used Psychic to move food into their mouths to savor the taste. Swampert walked over and into the pond to enjoy the calm sensation of the water while he ate.

Magikarp savored her food with a smile on her face while Rockruff wolfed down his food as he sat halfway between Dakota and Magikarp, tail wagging.

Dakota smiled with embarrassment.

"W-Well, my mom always made sure I knew how to feed different types of Pokémon. One time I fed her Incineroar some Pokémon food that she wouldn't eat until my mom showed me how to make it correctly."

Robert chuckled.

"My wife tried to show me how to cook once, but I almost burned our house down in the process. Now I have to take daily small cooking lessons with her just to prove I'm not a danger to our home."

He and Jason laughed at this before the latter spoke.

"William tries to convince me constantly to get on one of those cooking shows with Alakazam to compete with professional chefs and their psychic types. Needless to say, we haven't done it."

Dakota smiled slightly as he took another bite of his food before he spoke.

"It's a tradition in our family to cook to show we can pass on even supposedly small family lessons from one generation to the next from what my mom has said."

"What about your dad?"

Dakota's smile receded.

"We don't really talk much anymore."

"Why not?"

"He tried to convince me not to be a Pokémon trainer. He tried to and couldn't do it, he said, so he doesn't want me to experience the same thing. The more I got involved at Professor Oak's ranch and lab, the more he would say not to and to avoid anything to do with Pokémon as much as possible."

Jason, Robert, and the Pokémon gasped a little at this.

"It's hard to believe a parent saying that."

"Well…he has…and told me a couple of days before what happened with Team Rocket. My mom and him separated in part because of how he is with me."

Jason sighed.

"I guess family reunions aren't typically happy occasions."

"We don't have them much anymore."

"O-Oh."

Robert sighed and shook his head, one hand rubbing his dark gray hair.

"It's a father's job to worry about his children, though it's another thing to do that."

Jason nodded.

"You have kids?"

"Two, my girl's a student working on her doctorate of physics at a university and my boy is actually a chef (whom my mother always tries to bring home so she can get him to help her teach me how to cook)."

Jason chuckled.

"You must be proud."

Robert smiled and nodded.

"I'm just glad they both took their brains from their mother."

He chuckled at this then turned to Dakota.

"Don't worry, son, I can see your mother instilled a lot of her and her family in you. That's especially from what I saw on TV, you had Team Rocket scared stiff."

Dakota gasped and smiled with embarrassment.

"W-Well, I mean-"

Rockruff laughed a little at this and smiled at Dakota. The boy sighed.

"I just hope I'm making her proud."

"Believe me, I could see you are."

Dakota smiled and nodded.

About an hour later of eating, resting, and cleaning up, Dakota walked over to the pond where Magikarp swam and Rockruff beside him. He knelt down to level with them.

"Ok guys, now that we've rested for a bit, it's time to get some training in. Magikarp, let's start with you."

"Karp."

Dakota tossed off most of his clothes until he was just in his shorts then walked into the water and moved about a yard and a half away from her.

"Ok, I want you to use Tackle and knock me into the water."

"Karp?!"

"Ruff?!"

Jason, Robert, and Jason's Pokémon gasped at this, eyes wide. Robert chuckled nervously.

"N-Now son, maybe you could try a different tactic?"

"Magikarp should test her strength against a solid object that will try to resist her attacks."

"B-But you're gonna get hurt!"

"A small price to pay."

Robert turned to Jason, who looked just as surprised as him though it settled into a small smile. He took a sip from his drink.

Dakota didn't see this though as he was still facing Magikarp.

"Use Tackle."

"Mag..Magikarp!"

The water type shook her head at this after a moment of hesitation. Dakota sighed and a small smile appeared on his face.

"It's ok, I'm choosing to do this. We're testing your strength, it's only fair that I share in this training with you."

"Karp?"

"...Ruff…"

Rockruff's eyes widened a little at this as he was still on all fours. Dakota turned to his partner and smiled before turning back to Magikarp.

"Use Tackle."

"...Mag…Magi…Magikarp!"

The water type, after some hesitation, lunged forward. Her body hit Dakota's chest though despite her attack, the boy was still standing. Despite the pain, he did keep himself from showing it.

"Again."

"K-K…Karp!"

Magikarp lunged again, hitting him in the face this time. Dakota's head flew back from the hit and one of his legs was pushed back from the attack yet he still didn't fall in. Magikarp's eyes widened at this especially when she saw Dakota move his head back into position. There was a bruise under his eye though he didn't frown.

"Again."

"Karp!"

Magikarp lunged forward, striking his face again which pushed him back slightly like before though he kept his balance.

Swampert walked over to sit beside Jason.

"Swam, Swampert?"

"And here I used empty soda cans with you, buddy."

"Swampert, Swamp."

"Yeah, not what I was expecting either."

Magikarp lunged forward, striking Dakota's torso. The boy gritted his teeth as he skidded back slightly though held his ground.

"Find a way to knock me down."

"Magikarp!"

The water type lunged forward, striking the same spot she had just before. Dakota's balance started to shift in the water though he managed to keep his stance stable. Magikarp then jumped up then used a Flail attack against the boy's face.

Dakota winced as the water type's tail striked repeatedly, throwing his head back. Magikarp then dropped back into the water then turned back and used Tackle against his torso. The boy hadn't yet fully opened his eyes as the water type hit him again.

Jason watched as the boy kept getting hit above water, the water type striking again and again. Small bruises started to appear from each hit as time went on.

"He's really not giving in."

Dakota felt his footing come more loose as he kept getting hit by Tackle and Flail though he was keeping balance. He'd spent time in the ocean whenever his family visited Alola and found that it was coming in handy with the training now.

Rockruff had been watching, seeing how Magikarp's attacks had struck hard against Dakota though the boy kept his balance. As Magikarp kept dropping into the water, the splashing kept getting close to the boy's face. The rock type's eyes then widened as something popped into his mind. Rockruff then barked at Magikarp. The water type turned then nodded.

"Karp!"

Magikarp jumped up then fell back down, using the Splash move. Jason raised an eyebrow at this.

"Splash? What will-?"

Once Magikarp fell back in, the water flew up and hit Dakota in his face. He sputtered at this, eyes closed as he winced. The water type, once back in the pond, used Tackle and aimed for the boy's legs. Once her attack hit, Dakota fell in the water.

Rockruff barked excitedly, tail wagging. Magikarp smiled as she emerged from the pond.

"Karp! Magi!"

Dakota picked himself out of the water, pulling his thick black hair back. He wiped the water off his face as he chuckled lightly.

"Good work you two."

The boy turned to Rockruff.

"Good call having her go for my legs, it used her element."

"Ruff! Ruff!"

Rockruff wagged his tail, smiling. Dakota then turned to Magikarp, whom he gently rubbed the side of her head.

"You finally got me, knew you could do it."

"Karp!"

Dakota then readied himself in the pond again.

"Ok, this time-"

"Might I make a suggestion? One that doesn't involve you having yourself pummeled?"

Dakota turned to see Jason standing up from where he was sitting. The boy turned to him, his face marked with curiosity.

"Oh, sorry."

"I just didn't want to see my first instance of you training to end with you getting a concussion."

Dakota rubbed the back of his neck, slightly embarrassed.

"Right…so, what did you have in mind?"

"Battling can often be the best form of training, so let's try that."

Dakota nodded after a moment then pulled himself back on the ground. He walked over to his traveling gear and pulled out a towel then began drying himself off.

"I'll start with Magikarp, what about you?"

Jason turned to his team.

"Snivy, up for a battle?"

"Sni? Vy!"

The grass type rushed over to her trainer's side, a confident smile on her face. Dakota nodded as he finished drying himself off and got changed behind a bush. He walked over to the side of the pond, Magikarp moving to stay by his side in the water. Rockruff sat next to Dakota, awaiting the battle. Jason smiled.

"We'll start."

"Fine by me."

"Ok, Snivy use Razor Leaf!"

"Sni! Vyyy! Snivy!"

Snivy jumped up and released her ranged attack, and several blades leaves surged towards Magikarp.

"Dive under the water!"

"Karp!"

Magikarp dived into the water, the grass type attack missed as the leaves struck the water and then became immobile once they hit it.

"Now use Tackle!"

The water type lunged out of the water, leaping for Snivy.

"Dodge it!"

"Vy!"

Snivy leapt out of the way, clearing Magikarp's attack before the water type could get close. The water type grunted as she struck the ground and motioned to face the grass type as best as she could.

"Leap behind Magikarp and use Energy Ball!"

The grass type jumped forward and over the water type, readying her move in her mouth. Dakota looked up at the grass type then to Magikarp.

"Jump up and use Flail!"

"Magikarp!"

The water type lunged up and toward Snivy, which made the grass type gasp in surprise. Magikarp quickly twisted in the air and slapped her tail against Snivy's face repeatedly. Jason gasped at this in return then a smile returned to his face.

"That Magikarp really is something. But don't think it'll take just one surprise attack to win this. Snivy, use Vine Whip!"

"Snivy!"

Two vines emerged from around the grass type's neck that struck out at Magikarp, knocking her back down to the ground.

"Now Energy Ball!"

"Sniiiivy!"

Snivy then fired the move she had attempted earlier faster this time and fired it. Magikarp looked up, trying to get her balance.

"Magikarp get up!"

The water type tried to move, but the Energy Ball hit its target sending Magikarp flying back towards and into the pond. The splash rose up fairly high once Magikarp fell back into the water and after it fell back down, Magikarp emerged from the water bruised and struggling in pain.

Dakota gasped and turned to her.

"Magikarp, are you ok?!"

The water type nodded after a moment, managing to push through the pain.

"...Ok, you still up for it?"

"...Karp!"

The water type nodded.

Jason sighed.

"Ok Snivy, use Razor Leaf!"

"Sniiiiivy!"

Snivy threw her tail forward, firing more of the sharp leaf projectiles.

"Magikarp, dive under the water!"

"Magi!"

Magikarp attempted to dive again and did for the most part though one of the leaves struck her flank as she did this. The water type flinched under the water, wincing at the pain. Snivy slowly approached the pond, eyes scanning it.

"Now use Tackle!"

Magikarp then jumped out of the water and towards Snivy, but her former speed was gone. Jason didn't waste the opening he saw.

"Grab Magikarp with Vine Whip!"

The vines shot out and entangled the water type just a few feet from the edge of the pond. The water type struggled to get out of the hold but her attempt was cut short.

"Now Energy Ball!"

"Vy!"

Snivy shot the grass type attack forward which struck Magikarp in the face and created a small cloud. When it receded, it was revealed Magikarp was knocked out.

Dakota rushed over to her, kneeling over the edge of the pond.

"Magikarp, are you ok?"

The water type focused back on her surroundings and looked to Dakota then nodded after a moment.

"K…Karp."

Dakota gave her a supportive smile, gently rubbing her head.

"You did great, don't think anything else."

The water type slowly managed a smile.

Jason knelt down and rubbed Snivy's head as she walked over to approach her, both sharing a smile.

"You did great as well, just as we practiced."

"Snivy!"

Jason turned to Dakota.

"Magikarp has some real potential, she'll be an invaluable member to your team."

"She already is."

Dakota gently patted his Pokémon's head, which received another smile from Magikarp. He then stood up and turned to Jason.

"Another battle?"

"If you're up for it."

"Rockruff?"

"Ruff! Rrrrruff!"

Rockruff jumped forward, barking as he positioned himself in front of Dakota. Jason chuckled at this.

"Ok, Snivy, rest up. Charmeleon?"

"Charrr!"

Charmeleon jumped forward and landed in front of Jason, grinning and tail blazing. The older Pokémon of Jason's team smiled at one another at this display, chuckling. Jason smiled as he saw Rockruff only growl louder at this display from Charmeleon.

"Ok, you start this time Dakota."

"Alright, Rockruff use Growl!"

"Rrrrrruff!"

Rockruff let out as loud a growl as he could, the same effect of vibration before shot from his maw and towards the fire type.

"Dodge and use Smokescreen!"

"Char! Mel Charrr!"

Charmeleon jumped to the side, evading the attack then released a large gaseous blast of dark gray and black smoke from his mouth which covered the immediate area. The smoke blocked Rockruff and Dakota's view of the others.

Rockruff looked from side to side, trying to catch a glimpse of Charmeleon to no avail. Dakota had been doing the same to the same effect.

"Where is he?"

"Charmeleon! Use Dragon Rage!"

Dakota and Rockruff turned in the direction of where Jason's voice came from. Moments later, a sphere of bright range charged energy that burst out from the smoke and flew towards Rockruff.

"Dodge it!"

Rockruff leapt up into the air, narrowly missing the attack.

"Use Rock Throw, aim in the direction where the attack came from."

"Ruff! Rrrrruff!"

Rockruff's mane glowed and from his tail rocks shot out in the direction of where he believed the fire type had fired the attack from.

"Dragon Rage again!"

The same attack from before launched from the smoke, a few feet away from where Rockruff aimed his attack at. This time the attack hit Rockruff as he fell back to the ground.

"Rockruff!"

The rock type landed on the ground as the smoke cleared with Charmeleon standing in the area the dragon type attack had been launched from. The fire type stood with his back straight, arms crossed. Rockruff growled as he struggled to pick himself back up.

"Are you ok, Rockruff?"

"...Rrrr…Rrruff!"

"Ok, use Rock Throw!"

Rockruff's mane glowed again before rocks launched at the fire type from his tail.

"Dodge and use Metal Claw!"

"Char!"

Charmeleon charged forward, his claws glowed with a metallic glint. The fire type jumped to the side of the rocks and lunged forward with his claws.

"Dodge it and use Tackle!"

Rockruff slipped under the attack from Charmeleon then jumped back at the fire type, striking against the fire type's flank. Charmeleon skidded not truly too far away from where he'd been hit, having turned to face the rock type.

"Metal Claw back to back!"

"Dodge them and use Tackle!"

Rockruff barked as he rushed forward, jumping over the next strike from the fire type.

"Hit Rockruff with Iron Tail now!"

Charmeleon's tail glowed with a metallic glint like his claws right before he swung it, striking the rock type right from under him. Rockruff yelped as the blow landed, being thrown to the ground again by the force of the blow. The rock type whimpered and growled as he tried to stand up, bruised from the super effective strike.

Charmeleon held Rockruff's gaze, the rock type baring his teeth as he managed to stand up. Jason smiled at this.

"That's quite some spirit he's got."

"Rockruff, use Rock Throw!"

Rockruff's mane started to glow as Jason called out his order.

"Use Metal Claw!"

"Char!"

The fire type lunged forward and struck with the steel type attack, slamming Rockruff to the ground. Charmeleon pulled back the hand that hit, revealing Rockruff had been knocked out. Dakota ran over to Rockruff, kneeling down and picking up his partner who shook off the pain.

"You did great, buddy."

"...Ruff…"

"It's ok."

Jason walked over and gently rubbed Charmeleon's heading, earning a smile from the fire type.

"Gotta say, Rockruff's resilience continues to impress."

Dakota didn't look at him as he gently rubbed Rockruff's head.

"That's why he's the best."

Rockruff smiled at this and licked the boy's cheek. Dakota smiled and gently nudged his head against his partner's. Jason smiled at this.

(Current location, an hour later)

Dakota started crushing some berries in a bowl, preparing the start of another batch of Pokémon food. Jason walked over to stand beside him, looking down at the boy's work.

"So how do you-?"

"Sorry, family recipe."

"Come on, my agent could help fix something up."

"That's up to my mom."

"I think he could persuade her."

"Good luck with that."

Robert laughed at this, sitting at the other end of the table.

"She sounds like my wife."

Jason chuckled.

"Ruff?"

"Sni, Snivy."

The three turned to see Rockruff being approached by Snivy, the grass type motioning to the woods. Rockruff turned to see them looking at him and Snivy. The grass type turned to them, motioning with her hands to Jason and created a circle with her vines. Jason nodded to her.

"Ok, be careful and you know what to do if you get into trouble."

"Sni."

The grass type started to walk off, while Rockruff turned to look from her to Dakota. Jason turned to Dakota.

"She's just going to get berries and wants him to go along. Don't worry, they'll be safe together. Snivy's been trained well."

Dakota turned from him to Rockruff.

"Be careful, watch out for each other."

The rock type smiled then headed off to follow Snivy.

(Another part of Viridian Forest, several minutes later)

Rockruff sniffed the ground, Snivy walking beside him, as he followed the ever growing stronger scent of berries. The grass type strutted with a smile through the forest, enjoying the quiet of the woods and the serene calm of nature. The rock type had been steered by Snivy through the woods as she led them on another of her ventures from camp.

The rock type had been surprised the grass type invited him along, though he was happy to help. He had felt good in helping those he liked and trusted. Though he did feel guilty still over the first encounter with the Pokémon from Unova, though she and her friends informed him there was no ill will.

Now though, he kept his focus on the search. His nose was becoming invaluable as Snivy was carrying a fairly substantial number of berries in her hands. She was pleased to have food already to bring back, though kind of embarrassed this new friend had found berries faster than even she's had before despite not wishing to admit it to herself.

Rockruff got close to another bush with a few berries and took a long sniff. Snivy looked them over, curious then turned to the rock type. The rock type then began to eat one, a smile on his face as he enjoyed the taste. The grass type took hold one with her vines then placed it in her mouth. Snivy smiled as she enjoyed the taste of the berry.

"Ruff? Ruff."

"Sniv. Snivy."

The two smiled at one another as they continued to eat the berries from the bush. Then Rockruff's ears twitched and stood erect and his nose now picked up a new scent or rather several new scents. Snivy didn't detect this until the sound of running and flapping wings neared. They both turned to see Pokémon break through the brush on the opposite side of the small clearing the two had been in. Rattata, Raticate, Weedle, Caterpie, Pidgey, Butterfree, and Pidgeottos rushing across the clearing, eyes wide and crying out.

"Rat!"

"Raticate!"

"Freeeee!"

"Pidgeoooo!"

Rockruff and Snivy turned, seeing the Pokémon fleeing around and past them. Their eyes were wide as they cried out, not even paying mind to the two before them. Snivy's head moved back and forth as they fled while Rockruff's ears perked up and nose twitched. The rock type turned and growled, causing Snviy to turn to see the target of Rockruff's growling.

Before them stood three people dressed in dark attire with a large red R on their shirts, each with a Pokémon beside them: a Fearow, a Pinsir, and a Poliwrath. The Team Rocket grunts gasped then grinned at the two Pokémon in front of them.

"A Rockruff and a Snivy?! Oh this is too good!"

"They'll be worth something alright."

"Are you kidding me?! A Lycanroc and a Serperior would both come in handy in our missions."

The three Pokémon loomed over Rockruff and Snivy, the former only growling louder whilst Snivy looked in a specific direction. One of the grunts smirked.

"Ok, Pinsir, use-"

"Sni!"

Snivy dropped the berries in her hands then used her vines to wrap around Rockruff then rushed off in the direction she looked in moments ago. The grunts stood, surprised at this before they shook it off then rushed after them with the Pokémon following them.

Rockruff barked loudly, firing Rock Throws at their pursuers. The grass type moved through some thicker brush just outside of the sight of Team Rocket before she fired an Energy Ball in the air then instantly used Razor Leaf which struck her first move, causing the attacks to burst into several brilliant lights that scattered across the sky.

After a few minutes, the Team Rocket grunts and their Pokémon cornered them in a small clearing with a pond between them and more of the forest behind it. The grunts gasped and panted a little though their smiles returned momentarily.

"Nice try, you two, but we've got you now."

"Just in time for the auction."

"I know who I'm bidding on."

Snivy gently placed Rockruff down beside her then turned to the grunts and smirked widely. Team Rocket's smile slowly shifted into masks of confusion.

"W-What? Why's it smiling? We have them cornered."

"Do you?"

The three grunts and their Pokémon looked to see a young man walk into the clearing just behind Snivy as he fixed his cap into place on his head. One of the grunts scoffed.

"Some trap? Just one loser against the three of us."

"Wait, this guy looks kinda familiar."

"Yeah, isn't he…Wait…no…he's the former Hoenn Champion!"

"What?"

Jason smirked a little at this.

"Well I have to give credit to my team, I think you should meet them."

From the woods around Team Rocket Jason's teams quickly moved into place surrounding them. The grunts and their Pokémon visibly sweated especially at the sight of the angry Aggron though they did gasp as they locked eyes with Latios.

"Y-You have a-?!"

"More than one friend."

The grunts turned, seeing Dakota and Robert, Magikarp emerged from the pond close by. The grunts flinched at the sight of the boy especially who locked a furious gaze upon them.

"Y-You're the brat from the news!"

"You're gonna pay for what you're doing!"

Rockruff ran and leapt to his side, growling at Team Rocket. Jason frowned as his arms crossed, Swampert stepping up to stand beside him.

"Swam! Swampert!"

"Aggron! Aggron!"

Aggron clashed its massive arms against one another whilst his tail slammed against the ground. This caused Team Rocket to leap back around, visibly sweating.

Robert smirked a little.

"I think there's only one reasonable choice for you here."

The grunts shared a look of dread with one another.

A few minutes later, Team Rocket had been tied up and their Pokémon now laid asleep beside them thanks to Alakazam's Hypnosis along with being frozen by Swampert's Ice Beam. Rockruff growled at the grunts while Dakota knelt down and grabbed one of them by their shirt with both hands, gritting his teeth as he growled his demand.

"Why is Team Rocket here in Viridian Forest?! What do you want?! Tell us!"

"Ruff! Ruff! Rrrrrr!"

Rockruff stood beside him, eyes ablaze.

Jason stood there, watching the Team Rocket grunts sweat. Even though Swampert and Aggron stood to either side of him, he could still see the grunts moving their nervous gazes to the boy and his Rockruff every so often. Robert stood to the either side of Aggron, a partially amused smile on his face.

"I informed Officer Jenny of this debacle, she's on her way from Viridian City."

"Good, though that will take time. We have to have answers now. Alakazam?"

"Kazam."

"Care to do the honors?"

The psychic type nodded then turned to the grunts. His eyes glowed a blue and the grunts were soon covered in an aura of the same color before they were lifted high into the air as they cried out and screamed.

"W-Wait! Stop!"

"Let us down!"

"I'm scared of heights!"

Jason walked to stand beside Dakota who now stood up.

"I suggest you answer my friend's questions if you wish to return to Earth."

"W-What?!"

"What is Team Rocket doing in Viridian Forest? Either tell us or Alakazam will keep you up there until he gets tired and you drop."

"N-No, I'll talk! A small group of us has been tasked with capturing Pokémon here in the forest."

"We guessed that already. Some information we don't know would be appreciated."

"A-An auction!"

"Go on."

"There's an auction being held in another part of the forest. New members are going to bid on Pokémon they'll use in our operations and other buyers are coming to bid for whatever reasons they're coming! N-Now put us down!"

"A few more questions before we bring you down."

After several more minutes, the grunts had been brought back down to the ground. Swampert's Ice Beam had frozen their arms and legs and they too had been put to sleep by Alakazam's Hypnosis to make sure they couldn't get free. Jason laid out a map of the forest on the table nearby. Dakota, Robert, and the Pokémon looked around at it. Jason placed a cup on a specific location.

"This is where the auction is being held, there's several grunts and their Pokémon keeping guard over it. Cages are being held behind where the bidding will take place. We need to sneak in there to free those captured as a first priority."

Jason turned to his team.

"Aggron, you'll stay here to make sure Team Rocket doesn't try to escape and warn their friends."

"Agg?! Agg! Aggron!"

The steel and rock type appeared almost mortified, shaking his massive head as he hit one arm against his chest. Jason slowly shook his head.

"I'm sorry, big guy, but this is mainly a stealth mission and you would be best at keeping those grunts in their place. Plus you need to stay here with Robert in case any Team Rocket members go looking for their buddies. Charmeleon and Latios will remain here as backup."

Aggron groaned and Latios & Charmeleon turned to Jason.

"I'll send a message to Robert in case we need some help. Latios can come in fast while carrying Charmeleon."

Latio and Charmeleon nodded. Jason then turned to his other Pokémon.

"Swampert and Snivy will come in their Poké Balls, while Alakazam helps us sneak in."

The three nodded.

Dakota turned to Jason.

"Us?"

Jason smiled slightly.

"Right. You and I will be heading there to free the Pokémon. Rockruff's nose and ears will help keep watch as we get to work."

"What about those jerks there?"

"If there's time and a clear opportunity, we'll keep them occupied until Officer Jenny gets there."

Dakota turned to Rockruff, the rock type barked and nodded. They turned to see a look of guilt and sadness on Magikarp's face.

"...Karp..."

Dakota and Rockruff walked over to the water type, the former knelt down and rubbed her head. The boy's face was marked by guilt and sympathy.

"I know, this wasn't what I intended for our first day of training to go. We'll be back though. Plus, we also need you to keep an eye on Team Rocket. If any of their friends show up, they might not think to look here in the pond."

"...Karp."

The water type nodded after a few moments, a more steeled expression fixed upon her face. Dakota nodded, a small smile on his face. Rockruff followed the boy's lead on this.

"Ruff."

"Karp."

Dakota and Rockruff walked over to Jason who recalled Swampert and Snivy into their Poké Balls, Alakazam standing beside him. Jason turned to them.

"Ok, we've got a little ways to go before we get there. We don't have any time to waste."

"Right."

(Another part of Viridian Forest, several minutes later)

Dusk started to approach as the group made their way to and just stopped at the treeline next to the opening of another clearing, much larger than the one they had set up camp at. Several yards away there was a stage set up with curtains that lined the entire length of the clearing from one side to the other.

Team Rocket Grunts either stood guard around the stage or on either side of a few rows of chairs where people, both civilians and Team Rocket Grunts, sat and waited. Cars and trucks were parked not too far from where the people sat as some of the grunts stood around them. No Pokémon were in sight.

Jason had a grim expression on his face.

"It seems those grunts weren't lying, the Pokémon must be behind that curtain."

"There's a lot of people here for this 'auction', so they must've captured a lot of Pokémon."

Dakota gritted his teeth as he glared daggers at the people before them. Jason frowned though he remained as composed as possible.

"There's likely to be some of them in the forest here, let's sneak around back. Alakazam, let us know if anyone approaches."

"Kazam."

Rockruff grumbled, teeth bared. Dakota gently rested a hand on his back.

"I know buddy, come on."

"...Ruff…"

The group slowly made their way through the woods to circle around towards the back. As they got closer and closer, Rockruff's ears twitched as. The rock type growled though Dakota gently shushed him, which the Pokémon nodded in response to and quieted down. Jason saw this before he turned his attention back to his surroundings.

Rockruff and Alakazam's gazes shifted a little further into the forest. Dakota and Jason followed their gazes, a few moments later a female Nidoran emerged from the forest. Her eyes widened as she ran into their view and stopped when she locked eyes with them. She then took a battle position, growling though her eyes shook.

Jason gasped.

"She might give us away, Alakazam use-"

"Wait."

Dakota and Rockruff slowly approached the poison type which continued to growl though her body and eyes shook.

"Shhh, it's ok, we're not gonna hurt you."

"D-Dakota, she might-"

The poison type jumped forward, using a Tackle attack that struck the boy's chest. Jason and Alakazam gasped at this, just managing to stay quiet enough. Rockruff's eyes widened and despite Jason's initial thought he'd attack in response, he didn't. He then focused his gaze on Dakota, the boy was still standing. He held the surprised poison type with one hand and motioned with another to for Rockruff to remain still.

As Dakota pulled the hand back, he focused his gaze which was without fear or anger on the poison type.

"They took one of your friends? Didn't they?"

The poison type gasped, eyes widened at this. The boy slowly used his free hand to gently rest it on her head.

"It's going to be ok, we're here to help."

The Nidoran grunted, her head cocking slightly to the side. Dakota slowly approached back towards the clearing though kept himself hidden in the brush while he moved Nidoran's head in a small opening in the brush as he whispered.

"There's Team Rocket, your friend is behind that curtain. We gotta sneak behind it and free them, we have to do it quietly though."

The poison type's eyes widened at the set of what the humans had set up in the forest. There were so many humans there, so many that had taken Pokémon from the forest. Nidoran had seen the cage they'd put her friend in, she had been in the brush when they'd attacked. He tried to fight back yet he'd been overwhelmed by their surprise attack.

She'd try to chase after them but they'd gotten too far ahead. It had taken her close to an hour to follow his scent. This was more than she'd thought she'd find, there were so many of the humans. Dakota gently rubbed her head.

"Don't worry, we'll free them all then we take the fight to them."

Nidoran looked to him then to Rockruff who gave her a confident smile which she returned. Now with her by their side, the group continued to make their way around the perimeter of the clearing just out of sight of the grunts. Jason's eyes were focused on the grunts as they slowly kept moving through the woods.

Alakazam then held up one hand, causing the group to stop moving. The psychic type then motioned for the group to crouch down, which they did. Within moments, a few Team Rocket grunts made their way through the woods towards the area behind the curtain.

"I can't wait to get out of this stupid forest, it's too cold out here."

"We've got a job to do here, Officer Jett is keeping a tight schedule and won't tolerate any mistakes or slip ups."

"R-Right."

The grunts then continued to go on their way. Dakota turned to Jason.

"Officer Jett?"

"Probably the one in charge of this auction. They also clearly scare these guys, which is cause for concern at the most and caution at the least."

Dakota nodded in return before they kept moving. Within a minute or so, they rounded to the area across from the space behind the curtain. What they first saw was a track to a conveyor belt that was being managed and checked over by grunts. Nidoran whimpered and growled, her gaze focused on something else.

Grunts stood around or over Pokémon in cages, some being pushed on carts towards the start of the conveyor belt. Both Dakota and Rockruff gritted their teeth at this sight. The grunts snickered at the caged Pokémon, while others spoke down at them as they whimpered in the cramped spaces.

Jason and Alakazam frowned at this as well, memories of their encounters with Pokémon Hunters in the past came flooding back.

"I was really hoping that there wouldn't be any of this when we came to Kanto."

"Ala."

The psychic type nodded.

Nidoran grumbled as her eyes focused on a specific spot. Dakota followed her gaze, past a few cages with Butterfrees and Beedrills, was a male Nidoran. The little purple poison type just glared at the Team Rocket grunts that walked by. The boy knelt down and rested a gentle grasp on the poison type's shoulder.

"We'll free him, don't worry. They'll pay."

Jason looked over the cages as best as he could from where he hid. He saw no locks or chains on them rather pads with two lights with one bright and the other dull. He then turned to the others.

"There's no metal locks and chains. Which means the cages are managed by an electronic key. Alakazam, see if you can find the one with it."

"Kazam."

The psychic type nodded before he closed his eyes. His mind reached out to the grunts in front of them, looking into their minds for what they could see from them. It took a few minutes before the psychic type located his target. His eyes opened then he turned to Jason and pointed one finger to a grunt with a few around them.

"Ala, Alakazam."

"Good work, ok, do your thing."

"Kazam."

Alakazam nodded then turned his attention back to the grunts. His eyes glowed blue as he focused his mind upon the grunts. The Team Rocket grunts gasped as they felt this sudden wave of exhaustion and draining of energy that overwhelmed them suddenly as their bodies glowed with a blue aura.

"W-What? What is-?"

"It's…It's Hypnos-"

The grunts then all fell asleep and their bodies were frozen in the air before they were placed on the ground. Alakazam then nodded to Jason, who patted his Pokémon's shoulder.

"Well done, well done."

He then turned to the others.

"Come on. Let's get to work."

They nodded to him then they all moved to the back area. The Pokémon gasped as they watched the Team Rocket grunts had fallen asleep then turned to see the group rushing into the space between them and the conveyor belt that connected to the stage. The male Nidoran gasped and quickly pressed against the cage as the female Nidoran rushed over to him, both sobbing happily at their reunion.

Dakota and Rockruff immediately tried to pry the cage open with their hands and mouth respectively. The male Nidoran flinched at this though he then saw the look of support from his friend, who nodded to him. Then the poison type's attention turned to Dakota and Rockruff as the boy spoke up.

"D-Don't worry, we'll get you out. You and all the others."

The male Nidoran gasped at this, eyes wide as he saw the look of determination on the boy's face as well as the one on the rock type's. Dakota knew there was an electronic key, but he didn't want to waste any time in trying to free the Pokémon. He realized he may have looked silly in doing this, but his first instinct was to tear open the trap.

The female Nidoran then joined him and Rockruff in trying to tear open the trap. The other caged Pokémon saw this, gasping as they watched this random boy trying to free them with his bare hands.

Jason turned to Alakazam and whispered.

"Keep an eye out, make sure no one gets in our way."

"Ala."

The psychic type nodded before he then levitated in the air a few feet up and closed his eyes while opening his mind. Jason turned to see Dakota, Rockruff, and Nidoran trying to tear open the cage. He then walked over to the grunt Alakazam pointed out and knelt down. As he did this, he picked up a tablet that he'd been holding.

Jason scrolled through the tablet's screens, while he did this he heard then saw the conveyor built turn on. Then the sounds of the lights on the stage turned on and footsteps just on the other side of the curtain.

"Well bidders, it's time to begin the auction. Our newest members now have the chance to bid on the first single or perhaps even multiple Pokémon you'll use out in the field to further Team Rocket's goals. While these aren't truly the best, they are a start. As for our guests, we trust that the subjects we've gathered will give you more reason to support our team's cause."

The words came from a baritone voice, Jason couldn't help but feel there might be some level of charisma to it. He didn't even know what this guy looked like yet he felt his caution raise more. This made him continue to swipe through the screens. Then as the next screen came up, a smile appeared on his face.

"Finally."

On the other side of the curtain a tall man dressed in a silver version of the Team Rocket uniform stood on the stage. His short smooth reddish orange hair held a frame that matched his amber eyes. He held himself with a confident energy that the grunts surrounded themselves around. Officer Jett had a small smile on his face as he took a step towards the conveyor belt.

"As promised, the auction will have the bidding for one Pokémon at a time. We will start the bidding for each one as determined by Team Rocket's Pokémon categorized monetary value. We have quite a few of them to offer you so make sure you do your bidding correctly. And rookies, make sure you keep your eyes out for ones you know would be of use to Team Rocket."

"Yes sir!"

The Team Rocket grunts that sat in the chairs all answered in unison, which made Jett nod.

"Though our supporters are of course encouraged to bid for whatever your heart desires. I know that you came to leave with something, so we hope you enjoy what we have to offer."

He didn't turn to face the curtain or more accurately the grunts behind it as he spoke.

"Ok, let's start the auction off!"

Jett waited for the first Pokémon to appear, most likely a Caterpie or Weedle. They weren't particularly valuable to Team Rocket though he wagered there'd be someone who bid on them. When they got to the Beedrills eventually was when more of the bidding wars would occur. He'd gone through the catch himself before this event, so he knew where to start the bidding.

He stood there waiting to see the eventual interest in the faces of the grunts and civilians. Though after a few minutes, he only saw confusion and frustration on their faces. On the faces of the grunts who stood guard, he saw the same confusion which caused a frown on his face. He knew there likely wouldn't be much interest in a Caterpie or Weedle, but he knew they knew they started small.

Though as he thought this, he didn't hear what he considered to be the pathetic and tedious whimpering of a captured Pokémon. When he turned to face the conveyor belt, he saw no Pokémon. This caused him to turn his gaze backwards.

"This is no time for jokes! Send out the first one!"

After a few moments, he heard something heavy being loaded onto the conveyor belt. Jett's frown slowly receded.

"Finally. Now for the bidding, we shall start at-"

"What in the world?!"

Jett frowned as he focused on the faces of the crowd and guards, only seeing shock and fear on their faces. This made him pause as he turned to the conveyor belt. Much like those present, complete shock took hold of him of what he saw on the conveyor belt: a Team Rocket grunt bond, gagged, and trying to scream for help.

"What the-?!"

The curtain was torn to shreds as suddenly they watched two people and a score of Pokémon charge across the stage. The members of Team Rocket gasped in even greater shock at seeing the boy that had aided in the defeat of their assault on Professor Oak's Ranch as he roared alongside those he charged beside.

"You'll pay Team Rocket!"

Jett gritted his teeth as his eyes shook at this sudden attack. He then turned to see the other person beside the boy, whom he recognized now as the former champion of Hoenn, jump forward with a Swampert, Alakazam, and Snivy.

"You three know what to do!"

They nodded to their trainer and turned to the enemies in front of him. The Team Rocket guards threw their Poké Balls forward, calling forth various Pokémon to fight. Jett reached for one of his yet was then charged by two Nidorans, the male he recognized as one of the Pokémon that had been caged. Both used their Tackle attacks and knocked him back across the stage.

Dakota launched himself into a Team Rocket grunt, knocking him on their back as he called out to Rockruff.

"Let's go, Rockruff!"

"Ruff!"

Rockruff howled as his mane glowed before rocks fired from around his tail, striking several of Team Rocket's Pokémon. Swampert stood on the stage, releasing an Ice Beam that froze several Team Rocket grunts as they attempted to jump on and grapple some of the now freed Pokémon. Alakazam used Psychic to halt the attacks of several other Team Rocket Pokémon while Snivy released Razor Leaf which peppered these same opponents.

The freed Beedrills fired Pin Missile, which peppered the ground around Team Rocket which caused them to try to continually dodge the attacks. At the same time, freed Weedles and Caterpies use String Shot to ensnare other grunts while Mankeys and even a couple of Primeapes launched brutal Low Kicks and Fury Swipes against the various enemy Pokémon.

A Team Rocket grunt turned and focused on Jason, then turned to his Pinsir.

"Pinsir! Use Megahorn!"

The bug type lunged forward, its horns glowing white as it charged at Jason. Alakazam then jumped forward, one fist glowed with white and blue light before it launched a punch at the bug type. The Focus Punch landed and sent Pinsir flying back. Jason saw this and smiled.

"Thanks, Alakazam. Now use Psybeam!"

"Alaaaakazam!"

The psychic type locked his spoons together before a zagging burst of energy that swarmed with different colors launched forward. The attack hit Pinsir dead on and sent it onto the ground. The bug type hit the ground, knocked out. The grunt grumbled as he sweated as another grunt called out an attack.

"Raticate, Quick Attack!"

"Rat! Raticate!"

Alakazam turned to see the normal type rushing forward at a considerable speed only for Swampert to lunge forward and knock the Raticate down with a Hammer Arm. When the dust cleared, it was revealed Raticate had been knocked out. Swampert and Alakazam nodded to one another, smiles on their faces. Jason smiled at this, happy to see the old friends were still in sync as ever. He then saw Snivy jump up and fire an Energy Ball at a Golbat that flew in the air, diving towards Swampert and Alakazam with a Wing Attack.

Jason chuckled at this, especially when Snivy stood with pride after the attack hit.

"Great job, you three. But we're not done yet."

The three nodded then their focuses turned on Team Rocket grunts calling out for their Pokémon, several Spearows and Fearows, to attack. Jason smirked slightly.

"Swamper use Ice Beam, Alakazam use Psybeam, and Snivy use Razor Leaf!"

His Pokémon nodded at his command then released their respective attacks which surged forward and struck the flying types as they tried to close in. They cried out as they were frozen, peppered, and knocked down to the ground.

Dakota turned his gaze, seeing the civilians who came to attend the auction attempting to run.

"They're running, don't let them get away! Rockruff use Rock Throw!"

The rock type growled as his mane glowed and rocks flew from around his tail. The projectiles struck the ground around the people who flinched and fell back onto the ground. Some gasped as they picked themselves up and attempted to flee again.

A few freed Butterfree noticed this and flew forward, releasing a Sleep Powder which within moments made the people fall asleep on the ground. Pidgeys and Pidgeottos also flew around the remaining Team Rocket grunts, using Gust attacks to knock them back towards the stage as they attempted to flee or try to gain another position in the clearing.

Dakota looked to see some of the grunts with a few Pinsirs charging towards the Mankeys and Primeapes.

"Rockruff, use Rockthrow at those Pinsirs!"

"Ruff! Rrrrrrooo!"

Rockruff barked and howled as his mane glowed again and rocks fired out at the bug type Pokémon. The Pinsirs hissed and grunted as the rocks peppered their bodies as they attempted to lunge at the fighting types.

"Use Growl!"

"Rrrrrruff!"

The attack fired forward and enveloped the bug types, their bodies having the same energy effect that lowered the power of their attacks. The fighting types then turned to them and jumped forward, launching Low Kick and Karate Chop attacks.

"Use Tackle!"

Rockruff charged forward and launched himself against one of the Pinsirs, knocking it back before a Mankey followed up the attack with a Low Kick. The fighting types launched themselves forward at both the Pinsirs and the grunts, both of whom visibly panicked as the formerly caged Pokémon furiously launched more attacks as they lunged at them.

Dakota looked around at seeing more Team Rocket grunts attempting to order their Geodudes to surround a group of the freed Weedle and Caterpie.

"Use Rock Throw!"

Rockruff again released a barrage of rocks. The rock type Pokémon blocked the attack with their arms, withstanding the attack. The grunts started to grin despite the chaos at their auction only to see their Pokémon and themselves being wrapped up in the String Shots from the Weedles and Caterpies they'd tried to round up.

Dakota smiled a little at this.

"Use Tackle, go!"

Rockruff rushed forward at the Geodudes, as did the Caterpies and Weedles, launching Tackle attacks that sent the Geodudes skidding back and into the grunts. Moments later it was revealed they'd all been tangled up in a messy pile. The bug type Pokémon cheered at this while Rockruff smiled and barked.

"This is crazy!"

"Let's get out of here!"

Jason turned to see some of the grunts attempting to run into the woods. He turned to Swampert.

"Don't let them get away, use Ice Beam!"

"Swamp! Swaaaampert!"

Swampert opened his mouth and fired the attack, freezing the grunts in place which was still yards away from the treeline. Jason smiled at this.

"Nicely done!"

"Swamp! Swampert!"

Jason turned his gaze at seeing the man, whom he concluded was Officer Jeet, stand up at the opposite end of the stage. The Nidorans they'd met had been firing Poison Sting attacks at more of the enemy Pokémon or a Double Kick attack when one of them got close. The two Nidorans turned to see these two, growling.

Jett frowned as he held his torso with one hand and as he was about to speak, he heard another unwelcome sound: sirens. His gaze turned across the clearing at seeing lights shining in the distance. He turned, meeting the gaze of Dakota, Jason, their Pokémon, and the Nidorans.

"I guess I shouldn't be surprised, after you managed to keep us from taking the World Champion's Pokémon days ago. Still, I didn't expect I'd come across you myself and not like this."

Dakota gritted his teeth, fists clenched as he glowered at Jett. Jason then rested a hand on the boy's shoulder as he glared at the Team Rocket Officer.

"Your friends are down, your auction destroyed, Officer Jenny is coming, and the Pokémon are free. You can't win."

Jett scoffed slightly.

"...You're right…for now, at least."

"What?"

Jett pulled out a Poké Ball which opened and from it emerged a Hypno. The man then rested a hand on the Pokémon's shoulder.

"I'll be seeing you later. Hypno, Teleport now."

The psychic's type body as well as Jett's glowed white then seconds later despite both Dakota and Jason trying to call out attacks they disappeared. Dakota's eyes went wide as he screamed in anger at this.

"You won't get away with this!"

Jason's eyes widened a little at this, seeing the boy's seething form. He sighed as he turned to his Pokémon, rubbing their chins.

"You did great guys, thank you."

Dakota dropped onto one knee, one hand gripping his dark hair. Rockruff walked over and licked his face. The boy turned to him and slowly inhaled then exhaled. He then gently rubbed Rockruff's head.

"Thanks, Rockruff. You did great."

Officer Jenny then drove up on her motorcycle, other police drove up into the clearing on motorcycles. She looked around at the beaten Team Rocket grunts, supporters, and Pokémon then to Jason.

"Thanks for the tip, Mr. Sorenson, we got here as fast as we could…though it seems you managed it. Thanks, Champion…or former champion."

"It's alright."

Jenny rubbed the back of her head as she chuckled in embarrassment. She then turned and gasped at seeing Dakota.

"...You…you're the-"

Dakota turned to her, silent though still visibly upset. Jenny wasn't sure what to say to him though Jason spoke up.

"From what we understand, this was just a small operation of theirs. Though an officer of theirs escaped, so at least some of them should have some information for you."

"...Gotcha…thanks again."

Officer Jenny nodded then turned her gaze to Dakota, whose same upset and possibly even angry gaze fell upon her. The look on her face seemed to make her flinch before she shook it off then walked over to join her fellow police officers. Jason noticed this all though didn't say anything. Dakota sighed after a moment then turned to the Nidorans, who gently rubbed their heads against one another who turned to him.

"At least we helped free your friend and the others. Take care and watch out for Team Rocket."

The Nidorans turned to one another, eyes widened as they gasped. Dakota then turned to Rockruff after receiving a nod from Jason.

"Alright, let's get back to camp buddy."

"Ruff."

The group started to walk off. The female Nidoran turned to the male who looked from her to the boy then back to her while she stared at the boy with her eyes shaking. After a few moments, the two Nidorans then rushed in front of Dakota and Rockruff. They both started trying to communicate something to him. Dakota gasped as Rockruff smiled at this, tail wagging. The boy then knelt down to them.

"Are you…Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

The two Nidoran smiled.

"Are you wanting to come with me, with us?"

The two Nidoran smiled and nodded. Dakota gasped and smiled then turned to Rockruff, the rock type smiled at him and nodded. The boy then took out two Poké Balls and held them out before the poison types.

"Then let's go."

The Nidorans smiled and gently pressed their heads against them, which welcomed them into the items before the Poké Balls marked they'd become part of Dakota's team. The boy then held up the Poké Balls up to his face.

"Thank you, you two."

"Ruff! Ruff!"

Dakota turned to his partner and rubbed his head, both looking forward to what was next.

To be continued…

(I hope you all enjoyed this new episode!)