Castelia City, Unova

"Natalie, come here! Meine kleine Erdnuss."

Ross had a surprise from his sister. With a long tiring day working at Burger Queen and going to school behind him, he could focus his attention on preparing the gift he had planned for Natalie. As he stood in the living room waiting for his sister, a fish tank he bought for his sister sat on the living room table full of cold salt water. Behind him, he held a special kind of Poke Ball, known as a Lure Ball. A ball that worked best when trying to catch Pokemon while fishing.

Ross turns to his Dachsbun, who was right by his side. "Isn't this exciting Dachsbun? Natalie will be thrilled!" Dachsbun barks. She was excited for Natalie.

Natalie walks into the room. She takes her earbuds out of her ears and throws her tablet onto the couch. "What is it Ross?"

Ross smiles. "You know how you've been begging me to get you a Pokemon as a Pet?"

"Yes!" She stands on her tips toes, balls up her fits, smiles and bounces like a Buneary. "Did you get me a Pokemon as a pet?" She runs over to her brother and starts shaking him. "Please tell me that you got me a Pokemon as a pet?"

Ross nods. "Yeah, I did!" He throws the Lure Ball into the air, and a Magikarp comes out. Magikarp falls and Ross catches him. "Here you go Nat Nat! A Pokemon Pet of your own!" He hands her the Magikarp.

She couldn't take her eyes off Magikarp, refusing to believe that this was happening. "Wow, I can't believe I'm a Pokemon Trainer now!"

"Woah, Natalie! First of all, Magikarp is my Pokemon, you're just taking care of it." Ross gets down on his knees to level with Natalie. "It's like a school project, helping you get ready for when you become a Pokemon Trainer at 10."

"Fine, this is acceptable." She gives in. "I can't wait to tell Ash tomorrow at camp." Natalie was enrolled at the Pokemon Academy's Preparation Camp. A camp for young people aiming to prepare them for the world of Pokemon by teaching them the basics. Natalie rushes to her room, so she can call Ash. Natalie watches his sister and smiles. He was happy. But what mattered most was just seeing his little sister happy.

"Everyone will love you tomorrow at camp, I just know it!" She smiles at Magikarp, and Magikarp just responds with a derpy look. Which wasn't unusual for how it normally looked.

Chapter 30

Chapter 12 of The Mysteries of Eevee Arc

That Magik Moment

The next day arrives. It was a beautiful cold day, and Natalie was happy to go to Camp. Everyone at the camp was wearing jackets. It was a little chilly outside, but not too much to the point where it was necessary to wear a heavy coat. As the campers were gearing up to prepare the day. Natalie walks up to her best friend Ash with her brother's Lure Ball in her hand. Ash was busy playing Pokemon Cafe Remix on his smartphone.

"Hey, Ash!"

"Oh hey, Nat!" Ash puts his phone away. "So did you bring Magikarp?" The two had a lengthy and lengthy conversation over the phone yesterday. Natalie told Ash everything about the Magikarp Ross got her and he even got to see Magikarp for a bit.

"Of course!" She shows him the Lure Ball, which thrilled him. "Magikarp, I choose you! Eee, I always wanted to say that!" She tosses the ball into the air, and Magikarp comes out. Magikarp lands on the ground and starts flopping, like a fish out of water. "Meet Karpy!" Natalie had decided to give Magikarp a nickname.

"Oh my gosh, look at her!" Tina taunts. "See Carlos, this is what happens when we let people from the "projects" walk aimlessly around."

Natalie looks down. The constant harassment from Tina was starting to get her. But the only thing she worried about was Magikarp's feelings. Ash comforts his friend. "Don't listen to her, Natalie! Magikarp is an incredible Pokemon." Ash puts his hand on Natalie's right shoulder. She was glad to have him as a friend.

"Incredible? All it does is splash around." The six year old bully mocks. "It can't even use any attacks besides Tackle and Splash, it's pathetic! Isn't that right, Carlos?" She was looking for a more immediate response, but Carlos was too busy looking at Sewaddle, who was munching on a leaf.

"So pretty!" Carlos was mesmerized by how Shoddy Magikarp was.

"Carlos!" The blonde hair girl yells.

Carlos swallows his spit. "Yeah, yeah, it's ugly! Yeah ugly, I think."

"No, it's not! Magikarp is cool, and it evolves into a powerful and strong Pokemon!" Ash protests, protecting his friend Natalie, causing her to blush.

Tina folds her arms and closes her eyes. She tilts her head to the side, trying to give off the impression that she was much more important and inflectional than she actually was. She then points at Ash. "As for you Ash, I don't even know why you would want to hang out with someone who has a stupid dream. What is a Pokemon Master anyway?"

Carlos had to think for a second. And by second, it actually meant a long time. "A master of Pokemon?" Carlos asks.

"SHUT UP Carlos!" Tina shouts.

"Yes, Miss Tina!"

Natalie comes running into the house, crying. "You're the worst big brother, ever!"

"Huh? What did I do?" Ross asks. In the speed of a Volt Tackle, Ross pauses the show he is streaming. "Don't worry Tank Aces, I'll catch up with you later. You know Ross' character seems oddly familiar…" He gets up and checks on his sister. He walks into her room. A room full of things pink, cute and cuddly, such as plushy and tea sets. "Natalie, is everything okay?"

"No!" Natalie throws her Poliwag plush at Ross. "You ruined my life."

"You say that every week…"

Natalie throws another plushy at her brother, this time it was a Teddiursa plush. However, Ross catches it this time. "What happened this time?" He walks over to the end and sits down, concealing her. She gets and doubles down on the crying. She wipes away a tear as Ross hugs her. "Come on Natalie, I'm your brother, you can tell me anything."

She sighs. She needed to get this off her chest. "I showed everyone at the Preparation Camp the Magikarp you gave me, but they all started laughing at me. They said Magikarp was weak and useless."

"That's not true, all Pokemon are special!"

"That's a load of Tauros, and you know it! Why couldn't you get me an awesome Pokemon like a Dragonite or a Toxtrcity like the one Piers has!" She points to a poster of Piers, the Galar Dark-type Gym Leader and Famous Musician. On the poster, it shows him along with his band, the Maximizers, which consisted of a group of him and four Pokemon.

Ross was feeling down, feeling like he made a mistake giving Natalie Magikarp. He was walking home from school with his best friend Jeremiah. Jeremiah and Ross went to Malcolm X High School in Castelia City. Unlike some people, the high school they went to had nothing to do with Pokemon. It was beginning to get late outside, with the cold winds blowing and crunchy fall leaves on the ground.

Jeremiah notices Ross was feeling down. "What's good bro? Are you okay?"

"No. I got Natalie a Magikarp because she wanted her own Pokemon so bad, but when she showed it off to the people at the Preparation Camp, they all made fun of her!"

Jeremiah didn't take too kindly to that. He thought of Natalie as a sister. "Children can be so evil."

"I know, and now I don't know what I'm going to do! Ich bin so dumm!"

Jeremiah started thinking. "I think I know two Pokemon loving goobers who might be able to help…"

"Huh? Really?" Ross was shocked. "You're going to try and help with a Pokemon related problem? I thought you outgrew Pokemon and thought they were for kids."

"Oh no, I still think Pokemon are for kids. But I know what Natalie's going through, getting bullied and all that jazz."

Ross hugs Jeremiah, showing his gratitude. "Thank you, bro, thank you! You're the best ever!" The hug was a little tight, but Jeremiah appreciated it.

"I know I'm awesome." He shrugs.

The evening in Ross's apartment feels quieter than usual. The air is a little cooler, and the sounds of the city outside—car horns, people talking, the distant hum of traffic—seem muffled as they sit in the apartment. The small space is cozy, filled with mismatched furniture and shelves overflowing with random items. In the middle of the living room sits a large fish tank that Ross set up earlier that day for his sister's new Pokémon, a bright splash of cold saltwater reflecting the light from a nearby lamp.

Natalie sits on the floor, cross-legged, her face scrunched up in frustration as she holds Magikarp's Lure Ball tightly in her hands. Her gaze is fixed on the ball, but it's clear her mind is elsewhere, far from the gleaming fish inside. Ash sits beside her, trying his best to comfort her, but even his usual cheerful presence doesn't seem to be helping.

Ross walks back and forth, his shoes softly tapping against the floor as he runs his hand through his hair. He's clearly stressed, trying to figure out how to help Natalie after what happened at camp. Jeremiah is leaned against the counter, scrolling through his phone with a smirk on his face, while Ashley flips through a Pokémon magazine, her eyes skimming over the pages as if distracted. Davey is on the couch, petting Dachsbun, who's sitting happily next to him, her tail wagging gently in rhythm with the conversation.

After a few moments of silence, Jeremiah looks up from his phone, a gleam in his eyes. He leans forward, his expression bright with an idea. "I think I've got it," he says, holding up his phone to Ross. "Look at this."

Ross stops pacing, his brow furrowed as he walks over to take a look at the phone. The screen shows a poster for an event in Fuchsia City, a place he's never been but is instantly curious about. He squints at the words, reading them aloud. "The Magikarp Jump Competition?" His eyes widen slightly as he processes the idea.

"What's that?" Natalie asks softly, still staring at the Lure Ball in her hands.

Jeremiah steps forward, his voice confident as he explains, "It's a competition in Fuchsia City where Magikarp from all over participate in a jumping contest. There are no battles—just pure Magikarp jumping action." He grins, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Magikarp aren't useless, they just need the right kind of challenge. It's all about showing off their special talents, and this competition is perfect for that."

Ash, who's been quiet up until now, perks up at the mention of the competition. "That's perfect! It's a chance to show everyone what Magikarp can really do. All the kids at camp may have laughed, but they won't be laughing when they see Magikarp in action!"

Natalie looks up, her brow furrowing in doubt. "But… everyone already says Magikarp is weak. What if this just makes it worse?" She sounds unsure, the weight of her fears still heavy on her shoulders.

Jeremiah shrugs, unfazed. "That's exactly why you need to do it. You've got the chance to show them all that Magikarp has something they don't see. People love an underdog, Natalie. They'll root for you and Magikarp once they see how much effort you're putting in."

Ashley, who had been silent, now leans forward, enthusiasm lighting up her face. "And let's not forget—Magikarp can actually jump pretty high when trained right. There's a whole bunch of techniques out there that could make Magikarp a real contender."

Davey, looking a little skeptical but supportive, shakes his head with a half-smile. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but… I think it might actually work. It's not just about battling. Magikarp has other talents."

Ross crouches down in front of Natalie, his tone softening as he speaks to her. "I know you're disappointed. I know this wasn't the Pokémon you dreamed of, but it's still special. I gave it to you because I believe in you, and I believe Magikarp can do something amazing if you give it the chance."

Natalie looks down at the Lure Ball in her hands again. For a moment, it feels like too much. But then, she glances at Ash, who's giving her an encouraging smile, and at Ross, who's looking at her with so much hope. She swallows the knot in her throat. "You really think Magikarp can do it?" she asks quietly, her voice filled with doubt.

Ash, his face serious but full of belief, nods. "Absolutely. We'll train hard, and you'll see. It's not about what other people think. It's about you and Magikarp, proving everyone wrong."

Jeremiah claps his hands together with a bright grin. "That's the spirit! First thing tomorrow, we'll hit the park. We've got to get Magikarp in the best shape possible for the competition."

Ashley flips through her magazine, then pauses, her eyes lighting up. "I'll look up some training tips tonight. There have to be ways to help Magikarp jump higher—maybe it's special food or techniques that other trainers have used."

Ross stands up, brushing his hands off. "We'll help you, Natalie. You won't be doing this alone. You've got all of us behind you."

Natalie's eyes flicker from the Lure Ball to her friends. There's a warmth spreading inside her, a tiny spark of hope. Maybe it's not as hopeless as she thought.

She glances down at the ball one last time, her fingers running over the smooth surface. "Alright, Magikarp. We're doing this," she mutters under her breath, before turning to the group. "I'm in. Let's enter the competition and show them what we can do."

Magikarp, as usual, bursts out of the ball without any warning. It lands with a wet splat on the carpet and begins flopping around aimlessly. The room goes quiet for a moment. Then, without fail, everyone bursts into laughter. Even Natalie can't help but laugh.

"Well, Magikarp," Ross says, his smile soft but filled with warmth. "We've got a lot of work to do."

But despite the silliness of the moment, there's something else now. A sense of purpose. Natalie feels the weight of her worries begin to lift. Maybe, just maybe, this competition is the chance they've been waiting for. It's time to show the world what Magikarp—and she—are really made of.

The morning sun is bright, casting long shadows across the park as the group assembles by a large open field. The air is crisp, and the cool breeze ruffles the leaves in the trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere. A few trainers are scattered around, walking their Pokémon or setting up for various activities, but for now, the area feels mostly empty—perfect for training.

Ross, Ashley, Davey, and Ash stand by, watching as Jeremiah paces back and forth like a coach ready to begin an intense training session. He's already knee-deep into the training plan, and it's clear that he's fully committed to helping Natalie and Magikarp. His enthusiasm is infectious, and even though he's always claimed Pokémon aren't his thing, today, he's all in.

Jeremiah claps his hands together, then looks over at Magikarp, who's flopping around on the grass with its usual awkward grace. "Alright, Natalie! Time to show Magikarp what we're working with today!" He grins wide, practically vibrating with excitement.

Magikarp lets out a few weak splashes as it attempts to jump but only manages to flop a little higher than usual, landing with a soft thud back onto the ground. It's clear that jumping isn't something it's used to. Natalie's shoulders slump as she watches, a frown tugging at her lips.

"Come on, Karpy," she mutters under her breath, urging the Pokémon on. "You can do this."

Jeremiah takes a few steps forward, clapping his hands to get the Pokémon's attention. "Magikarp! Focus! I want to see some power in those fins!" He crouches low, leaning in toward the flopping fish, his voice suddenly dropping to an intense level of seriousness. "You think you're gonna show up in Fuchsia City without some real flair? You gotta jump higher than that!"

The sudden shift in his tone catches everyone off guard. Ross raises an eyebrow. "Jeremiah, since when did you get so… intense about Pokémon?"

Jeremiah doesn't even respond, his gaze focused entirely on Magikarp. "Look, if Magikarp wants to win, it's got to jump higher than that. We're not here for baby steps, we're here to prove a point!" He turns to Natalie, his usual laid-back attitude replaced with an almost fiery passion. "Magikarp needs discipline, Natalie. It needs focus! Don't let it slack off! You need to show it that this is serious business!"

"Wow," Ashley says, glancing at Davey with an amused smirk. "I've never seen Jeremiah like this. He's really getting into it."

Davey chuckles, petting Dachsbun, who's watching the whole scene with a wagging tail. "Yeah, he's like a Pokémon trainer now. Kinda wild to see."

"I mean, I get it," Ash adds, still holding his Poké Ball in his hand, though his eyes are locked on Jeremiah. "Magikarp's gotta learn how to work if it's gonna impress anyone. But still… Jeremiah being this serious about it?"

Jeremiah's voice rises in excitement as he paces again, waving his arms around like he's orchestrating a grand performance. "You can't just expect results without putting in the work! Magikarp, show me what you've got! Jump!"

Magikarp lets out a pitiful splash, struggling to get off the ground even by an inch. It tries again, flopping harder, but it doesn't gain much height. Its face remains as derpy as ever, and it lands with an ungraceful plop on the grass.

Natalie sighs deeply, rubbing her forehead with a hand. "This isn't working. Why can't you jump higher?" Her voice is filled with frustration, a bit of desperation creeping in.

Jeremiah pauses his pacing and kneels down next to Natalie, his expression softening. "Hey, it's okay. It's gonna take time. Magikarp isn't going to be perfect right away. We've got a long way to go, and I'm not giving up. Neither should you. You've got this. You and Karpy are gonna surprise everyone."

Natalie looks down at the flopping Magikarp, then back at Jeremiah. She can feel the weight of his words, but doubt still lingers in her mind. "I don't know… maybe I was just being silly. Maybe I should've asked for a different Pokémon. Maybe I'm not cut out for this."

"No way!" Jeremiah exclaims, suddenly standing up and pointing at her with renewed energy. "You're definitely cut out for this! You've got the heart to make it work, and that's half the battle. You're not giving up now, are you?"

Natalie blinks, then slowly nods. The words sink in, and though she's still unsure of what's going to happen next, she can't shake the feeling that Jeremiah's right. She's come this far—there's no turning back now.

"Alright, let's give it one more shot," she says, determination creeping into her voice.

Jeremiah flashes a grin, clapping his hands once more. "That's what I like to hear! Now, Magikarp, you better jump higher than that or I'll make you do ten push-ups!"

Everyone laughs, and even Natalie can't help but smile at the absurdity of it all. Magikarp flops again, its body stretching higher this time, but it still doesn't reach much altitude. It lands, looking just as goofy as ever.

"Okay, okay, let's take a break," Jeremiah says, wiping his brow as if he just finished an intense workout. "We've been at this for a while. Maybe a little food will help. Magikarp's gotta fuel up!"

Ashley pulls out a small bag of berries from her backpack, handing one over to Jeremiah. "Here, these might give it a little energy boost."

Jeremiah takes the berry and offers it to Magikarp, who sniffs it curiously before snapping it up in a quick gulp. There's a brief moment of silence before the Pokémon starts flopping again, a little more enthusiastically this time. It's a small change, but it's something.

"See that?" Jeremiah says, pointing excitedly. "That's improvement! Don't underestimate Magikarp! Just watch—next time it'll jump higher. It's all about the right balance, training, and the right food!"

Ross shakes his head, chuckling. "I can't believe it. Jeremiah's finally getting into Pokémon. You're like a different person."

"Yeah," Davey adds with a smile. "You're like a full-blown trainer now. If I didn't know better, I'd think you were getting attached to the whole thing."

Jeremiah, feeling a little embarrassed but also proud, shrugs with a grin. "Maybe I'm starting to like 'em a little. But don't expect me to start collecting badges or anything. I'm still not about that life."

Ash laughs, his arms crossed, looking out at Magikarp as it continues to practice. "You're a natural, man. Who knows? Maybe you'll surprise yourself one day."

Natalie watches Magikarp, feeling a renewed sense of determination. The road ahead is still long, and she knows it won't be easy, but for the first time in a while, she feels a glimmer of hope. She's not alone in this. She's got her friends—and even someone like Jeremiah, who's getting more and more hooked on Pokémon than he'll admit.

"Let's keep going," she says, her voice filled with newfound confidence. "We've got a competition to win."

And though Magikarp still struggles, Natalie knows they'll keep pushing, one jump at a time.

The morning sun is bright, casting long shadows across the park as the group assembles by a large open field. The air is crisp, and the cool breeze ruffles the leaves in the trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere. A few trainers are scattered around, walking their Pokémon or setting up for various activities, but for now, the area feels mostly empty—perfect for training.

Ross, Ashley, Davey, and Ash stand by, watching as Jeremiah paces back and forth like a coach ready to begin an intense training session. He's already knee-deep into the training plan, and it's clear that he's fully committed to helping Natalie and Magikarp. His enthusiasm is infectious, and even though he's always claimed Pokémon aren't his thing, today, he's all in.

Jeremiah claps his hands together, then looks over at Magikarp, who's flopping around on the grass with its usual awkward grace. "Alright, Natalie! Time to show Magikarp what we're working with today!" He grins wide, practically vibrating with excitement.

Magikarp lets out a few weak splashes as it attempts to jump but only manages to flop a little higher than usual, landing with a soft thud back onto the ground. It's clear that jumping isn't something it's used to. Natalie's shoulders slump as she watches, a frown tugging at her lips.

"Come on, Karpy," she mutters under her breath, urging the Pokémon on. "You can do this."

Jeremiah takes a few steps forward, clapping his hands to get the Pokémon's attention. "Magikarp! Focus! I want to see some power in those fins!" He crouches low, leaning in toward the flopping fish, his voice suddenly dropping to an intense level of seriousness. "You think you're gonna show up in Fuchsia City without some real flair? You gotta jump higher than that!"

The sudden shift in his tone catches everyone off guard. Ross raises an eyebrow. "Jeremiah, since when did you get so… intense about Pokémon?"

Jeremiah doesn't even respond, his gaze focused entirely on Magikarp. "Look, if Magikarp wants to win, it's got to jump higher than that. We're not here for baby steps, we're here to prove a point!" He turns to Natalie, his usual laid-back attitude replaced with an almost fiery passion. "Magikarp needs discipline, Natalie. It needs focus! Don't let it slack off! You need to show it that this is serious business!"

"Wow," Ashley says, glancing at Davey with an amused smirk. "I've never seen Jeremiah like this. He's really getting into it."

Davey chuckles, petting Dachsbun, who's watching the whole scene with a wagging tail. "Yeah, he's like a Pokémon trainer now. Kinda wild to see."

"I mean, I get it," Ash adds, still holding his Poké Ball in his hand, though his eyes are locked on Jeremiah. "Magikarp's gotta learn how to work if it's gonna impress anyone. But still… Jeremiah being this serious about it?"

Jeremiah's voice rises in excitement as he paces again, waving his arms around like he's orchestrating a grand performance. "You can't just expect results without putting in the work! Magikarp, show me what you've got! Jump!"

Magikarp lets out a pitiful splash, struggling to get off the ground even by an inch. It tries again, flopping harder, but it doesn't gain much height. Its face remains as derpy as ever, and it lands with an ungraceful plop on the grass.

Natalie sighs deeply, rubbing her forehead with a hand. "This isn't working. Why can't you jump higher?" Her voice is filled with frustration, a bit of desperation creeping in.

Jeremiah pauses his pacing and kneels down next to Natalie, his expression softening. "Hey, it's okay. It's gonna take time. Magikarp isn't going to be perfect right away. We've got a long way to go, and I'm not giving up. Neither should you. You've got this. You and Karpy are gonna surprise everyone."

Natalie looks down at the flopping Magikarp, then back at Jeremiah. She can feel the weight of his words, but doubt still lingers in her mind. "I don't know… maybe I was just being silly. Maybe I should've asked for a different Pokémon. Maybe I'm not cut out for this."

"No way!" Jeremiah exclaims, suddenly standing up and pointing at her with renewed energy. "You're definitely cut out for this! You've got the heart to make it work, and that's half the battle. You're not giving up now, are you?"

Natalie blinks, then slowly nods. The words sink in, and though she's still unsure of what's going to happen next, she can't shake the feeling that Jeremiah's right. She's come this far—there's no turning back now.

"Alright, let's give it one more shot," she says, determination creeping into her voice.

Jeremiah flashes a grin, clapping his hands once more. "That's what I like to hear! Now, Magikarp, you better jump higher than that or I'll make you do ten push-ups!"

Everyone laughs, and even Natalie can't help but smile at the absurdity of it all. Magikarp flops again, its body stretching higher this time, but it still doesn't reach much altitude. It lands, looking just as goofy as ever.

"Okay, okay, let's take a break," Jeremiah says, wiping his brow as if he just finished an intense workout. "We've been at this for a while. Maybe a little food will help. Magikarp's gotta fuel up!"

Ashley pulls out a small bag of berries from her backpack, handing one over to Jeremiah. "Here, these might give it a little energy boost."

Jeremiah takes the berry and offers it to Magikarp, who sniffs it curiously before snapping it up in a quick gulp. There's a brief moment of silence before the Pokémon starts flopping again, a little more enthusiastically this time. It's a small change, but it's something.

"See that?" Jeremiah says, pointing excitedly. "That's improvement! Don't underestimate Magikarp! Just watch—next time it'll jump higher. It's all about the right balance, training, and the right food!"

Ross shakes his head, chuckling. "I can't believe it. Jeremiah's finally getting into Pokémon. You're like a different person."

"Yeah," Davey adds with a smile. "You're like a full-blown trainer now. If I didn't know better, I'd think you were getting attached to the whole thing."

Jeremiah, feeling a little embarrassed but also proud, shrugs with a grin. "Maybe I'm starting to like 'em a little. But don't expect me to start collecting badges or anything. I'm still not about that life."

Ash laughs, his arms crossed, looking out at Magikarp as it continues to practice. "You're a natural, man. Who knows? Maybe you'll surprise yourself one day."

Natalie watches Magikarp, feeling a renewed sense of determination. The road ahead is still long, and she knows it won't be easy, but for the first time in a while, she feels a glimmer of hope. She's not alone in this. She's got her friends—and even someone like Jeremiah, who's getting more and more hooked on Pokémon than he'll admit.

"Let's keep going," she says, her voice filled with newfound confidence. "We've got a competition to win."

And though Magikarp still struggles, Natalie knows they'll keep pushing, one jump at a time.

Fuchsia City, Kanto

Fuchsia City is bustling with excitement as the group walks through the gates of the massive arena where the Magikarp Jump Competition is being held. The sound of laughter and chatter fills the air, mixed with the occasional splash of a Magikarp attempting to leap in the nearby training area. The event is drawing in competitors from all over the region, and Fuchsia's iconic pink-themed buildings stand tall, making it impossible not to feel the energy of the city.

There are 64 competitors lined up in front of a large, open pool, each with their Magikarp bouncing around in their own respective training areas. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high—first place will win a Pokémon Egg, an incredible prize for any trainer looking to add a new Pokémon to their team.

As the group approaches the registration table, the air is thick with anticipation. A colorful banner flutters above, proudly announcing the event and its grand prize. Natalie's heart races in her chest as she looks over at the pool, where Magikarp after Magikarp attempts to leap.

"Can you believe it?" Ashley says, her voice full of excitement. "Sixty-four people… that's a lot of competitors!"

Ross grins, his eyes scanning the crowd. "Yeah, but I think Nat Nat's gonna show them all how it's done."

Natalie glances at her brother, a nervous smile on her face. "I don't know… I still feel like Magikarp's a little behind everyone else."

Jeremiah, who's been uncharacteristically quiet since they arrived, suddenly speaks up, his voice firm. "You've got this, Nat. Don't think about the others. Just focus on your Magikarp."

Ash, walking alongside the group, pats Natalie's shoulder. "Jeremiah's right. It's all about your bond with Karpy. You've been working hard for this. You'll do great."

Before Natalie can respond, the announcement rings out across the arena, signaling the start of the competition. The first competitors take their positions at the edge of the pool, ready for their turn.

"Alright, first contestant!" a voice calls from the loudspeaker. "Step up and show us what you've got!"

The crowd cheers as the first Magikarp, a large, vibrant orange one with noticeable fins, is released into the pool. The trainer shouts commands as the Pokémon attempts its first jump, struggling but managing to make it a few feet into the air before landing with a splash.

"Not bad," Davey mutters, his arms crossed as he watches closely. "But I've seen better. Karpy can do better than that."

Another competitor steps forward, their Magikarp looking far more agile. The Pokémon jumps with ease, soaring higher into the air and making a graceful landing. The crowd erupts into applause, and the trainer beams with pride.

Ashley, her eyes wide, watches the Magikarp in awe. "That one's impressive… but there's something about that last one." She looks at the competition pool where a new trainer is about to begin.

Another contestant steps forward, and Natalie feels her stomach tighten as they release a Magikarp that sparkles under the sunlight. The fish Pokémon has a shiny appearance, with scales that shimmer a distinct golden hue.

"Is that a shiny Magikarp?!" Ashley exclaims, her eyes locked onto the dazzling Pokémon. "I've never seen one in person before!"

The crowd gasps in amazement as the shiny Magikarp leaps with grace, soaring effortlessly into the air and landing with a powerful splash. The trainer holds up their hands in triumph as the crowd cheers wildly. Even Natalie's group can't help but be impressed by the sheer beauty and skill of the shiny Magikarp.

"That's incredible!" Natalie exclaims, watching in awe as the shiny Magikarp continues to perform jump after jump, each more perfect than the last. "But how… how could I ever beat that?"

Jeremiah nudges her gently, his voice low but full of conviction. "You've got something special too, Nat. Don't worry about the shiny Magikarp. Focus on Karpy. We've worked hard for this."

"Right," Natalie says, taking a deep breath and straightening her posture. She glances down at Karpy, who's flopping around next to her, looking a little unsure but eager to try.

A few more trainers go before it's finally Natalie's turn. The competition continues to heat up, with some trainers managing to make spectacular jumps, while others are left with little more than awkward splashes. It's nerve-wracking, but also exciting, and the energy in the air is contagious.

The loudspeaker calls out, "Next up: Natalie from Castelia City!"

All eyes turn toward Natalie as she steps forward, her heart pounding in her chest. Ash, Davey, and Ross all give her supportive nods, while Jeremiah gives her an encouraging thumbs-up.

"Okay, Karpy, let's do this," she murmurs, releasing her Magikarp into the pool. The fish Pokémon splashes into the water, looking more determined than before, but still struggling to find its rhythm.

"Alright, Karpy! Jump high!" Natalie shouts, trying to steady her nerves. The Magikarp moves sluggishly at first, its body flopping in an attempt to gain height. It makes a small jump, barely clearing the water's surface before landing back with a gentle splash. The crowd murmurs, and Natalie feels a pang of frustration.

"Come on, Karpy! You can do it! Jump higher!" she urges, her voice shaking with a mix of hope and doubt.

Jeremiah leans forward, watching closely. "Focus on the technique, not the height. Give it all you've got, Karpy!" he shouts, his voice full of encouragement.

The Magikarp gives another attempt, but once again, its jump falls short. The crowd's reaction is polite, but it's clear that the Pokémon isn't impressing anyone yet. Natalie's heart sinks. She wanted this so badly, but it feels like her Magikarp isn't ready.

A few more competitors go, and the pressure is starting to build. But then, with the crowd watching closely, it's time for one more try. Natalie takes a deep breath, steadying herself. "Okay, Karpy. This is our last shot. Let's make it count."

She looks at her Magikarp, who is swimming eagerly in the pool, its fins flicking. With a final, determined shout, "Jump, Karpy!" the Pokémon leaps with everything it has, soaring higher than before.

The jump isn't perfect, but it's a solid effort. Karpy lands with a splash, sending waves of water into the air. The crowd claps, a few cheer, and for the first time since stepping up, Natalie feels like they've done something worth celebrating.

She smiles, relief washing over her as she looks at Karpy. "We did it. We actually did it."

Jeremiah gives her a proud nod. "That was solid, Nat. You gave it your all, and that's what matters."

Ashley, still wide-eyed, grins. "You've got something special, Natalie. Don't worry. You've got this."

With one last glance at the other competitors, Natalie knows that while they might not have taken first place yet, they've made their mark—and she's ready for whatever comes next.

The sun beats down on the arena as the competition heats up. The crowds have gathered, and a palpable sense of excitement fills the air as the remaining competitors go head-to-head. The announcer's voice rings through the loudspeakers, keeping everyone on edge.

The montage begins with trainers tossing their Lure Balls into the air, releasing their Magikarp one after another. Some leap gracefully, their bodies arching high before they splash back into the water. Others struggle, their attempts hardly reaching above the waterline. The crowd cheers with each jump, eager to see who will make it to the final two.

First, a young girl from Nimbasa City sends her Magikarp soaring through the air, its jump reaching an impressive height. But it falters slightly before splashing down, not quite enough to put her into the finals. The crowd murmurs in approval but quickly shifts their focus to the next competitor.

A trainer from Castelia City, not unlike Natalie, watches his Magikarp launch into the air. His Pokémon's jump is good, but not great. It reaches a solid height, yet the trainer's excitement fades as the splash down isn't clean. The judge raises a hand, indicating that the competitor has been eliminated. The crowd applauds politely as they move on to the next.

One after another, competitors are eliminated, their Magikarp falling short or not making the kind of impressive leap needed to push them through to the final round. Natalie watches, her heart racing as the numbers dwindle.

Then, it's her turn. Natalie stands tall, her face full of determination as Karpy leaps higher and higher, reaching new heights with each attempt. The crowd watches in awe as the once-weak Magikarp, struggling to jump even a few feet, now looks like a formidable competitor. Karpy's final leap sends a ripple through the crowd, and as it lands with a big splash, cheers erupt around the arena. Natalie's classmates, watching the competition live on a stream at the Preparation Camp, gasp in surprise.

"Karpy… did that?!" one of them exclaims, staring at the screen. "This is insane!"

"No way, she's actually doing really well," another classmate says, shaking their head in disbelief. "But… do you really think she can win? Look at that shiny Magikarp in the final."

Despite the growing support for Natalie, a few of them still aren't convinced. "It's still a long shot," one of them adds. "That golden Magikarp is way too good."

Back in Fuchsia City, the competition narrows down to the final two: Natalie and the trainer with the golden Magikarp. The golden Pokémon, with its shimmering scales, exudes an aura of superiority as it bounces in its tank. The trainer stands confidently next to it, a smile of smug satisfaction on their face.

The announcer's voice booms again, "And now, we have our final competitors! On the one side, we have Natalie and her Magikarp, Karpy! And on the other, we have the trainer with the shiny Magikarp, a stunning display of grace and power! Who will take home the Pokémon Egg?"

The crowd murmurs in anticipation as the two trainers step up, positioning their Magikarp at the edge of the pool. Natalie feels a twinge of nervousness, but she pushes it away, focusing solely on Karpy. Karpy looks at her with a mix of excitement and determination in its eyes.

The first jump is made by the golden Magikarp. The crowd holds its breath as it leaps into the air with breathtaking speed and elegance, soaring effortlessly higher than any other Magikarp seen that day. It lands smoothly with a splash that causes a small wave to ripple through the water.

The announcer's voice crackles through the speakers: "An incredible jump from the shiny Magikarp! A new high for the competition! Can Natalie's Magikarp match it?"

Natalie swallows hard but nods. "We've got this, Karpy. Let's do it."

She gives the signal, and Karpy lunges forward with all its might, leaping high into the air. It's a solid jump, almost reaching the height of the shiny Magikarp's performance. The crowd reacts with mixed applause—impressed but still unsure if it's enough to win.

Natalie watches, her heart pounding in her chest. She knows Karpy has more in it. They've come so far, and now it's all on the line.

The announcer's voice cuts through the tension: "That was a strong jump from Karpy, but the shiny Magikarp is still in the lead! The final decision will come down to this last round. Will Karpy pull off the upset, or will the shiny Magikarp claim victory?"

Natalie's hands tremble as she gives the command for the final jump. This is her moment. Karpy responds with a determined flick of its fins, preparing for its biggest leap yet. The golden Magikarp watches from the side, a look of superiority in its gaze as it awaits its turn.

As the golden Magikarp prepares for its final jump, the crowd falls into a hush, each person holding their breath. The Pokémon leaps into the air with incredible grace, reaching a height that seems almost impossible. It lands perfectly, drawing cheers from the crowd as the trainer raises their hands in victory.

But Natalie's Magikarp, Karpy, is still ready for the challenge. She can feel the weight of the moment pressing down on her. Karpy had already proven so much, but this final leap would determine if they could pull off the impossible. The golden Magikarp's flawless jump is still in her mind, taunting her. She can't help but wonder if it's too much for Karpy to overcome.

"Alright, Karpy," Natalie whispers, trying to steady her nerves. "Let's show them what you can do. One last jump."

She gives the signal, and Karpy lurches forward, swimming with everything it has. Karpy's jump begins, higher than any of the previous attempts. The crowd holds its breath, watching with wide eyes as the Magikarp shoots into the air. It reaches an impressive height, but then, something unexpected happens. Karpy doesn't stop climbing.

It keeps going.

The crowd gasps, and Natalie's heart skips a beat. Karpy is too high now, way higher than any Magikarp has ever jumped in this competition. And then, as if in slow motion, Karpy starts to lose control.

"Karpy!" Natalie shouts, but it's too late.

The poor fish, once the laughingstock of the camp, is now caught in the midst of a wild, uncontrolled leap. Karpy plummets downward, unable to correct its trajectory, and with a massive splash, crashes into the pool. The sound of the splash is deafening, and for a moment, everything goes silent.

Natalie's stomach drops as she watches the water settle, her Magikarp floating limply in the pool. Her classmates, still watching the stream, gasp in disbelief. Some of them have their hands over their mouths, not sure how to react.

But then, something incredible happens.

From the depths of the pool, Karpy's body begins to glow. A radiant, blinding light envelopes the water, causing the crowd to gasp in unison. Natalie's eyes widen as she watches in awe, her mouth falling open.

Karpy's form begins to shift and change, the transformation unmistakable. The glow dims, revealing the massive, terrifying shape of a Gyarados. The once-weak Magikarp has evolved right before everyone's eyes, and the arena erupts into an explosion of cheers and gasps.

Natalie can hardly believe what she's seeing. She stares at Gyarados, still floating in the pool, a Pokémon that once seemed so weak but now radiates power. The evolution feels like a dream. Karpy—a Gyarados!

"Karpy…" she whispers, her voice filled with awe. "You did it."

The announcer's voice booms over the speakers, barely audible over the cheering crowd. "And there you have it, folks! The winner of the Fuchsia City Magikarp Jump Competition is… Natalie and her Magikarp, now evolved into a magnificent Gyarados!"

The crowd goes wild. Trainers are clapping and shouting in celebration, amazed at the unexpected turn of events. Some even rush over to take photos of the newly evolved Gyarados, the power and grace it now exudes capturing the hearts of everyone watching.

Natalie stands there, her eyes locked on her Gyarados, still in shock. She can't believe it. She won! They won!

Her classmates, who had been so doubtful of her, are now cheering her on. "Wow, I can't believe it!" one of them exclaims. "She actually won! With a Magikarp, no less!"

Another classmate, equally amazed, adds, "Who knew it could evolve into a Gyarados like that?"

Ash, standing by Natalie's side, grins and pats her on the back. "I knew you had it in you. You've got a strong bond with Karpy, and that's all that matters."

Davey, standing nearby, chuckles. "I don't think anyone saw that coming. From Magikarp to Gyarados… What a turn of events!"

Jeremiah, who had been watching with his arms crossed, looks at Natalie with a proud smile. "You did it, Nat. I'm seriously impressed. I think Karpy's jump might've been a little… excessive, but it was worth it."

Natalie, still processing everything, slowly turns her attention back to Gyarados. The massive water Pokémon looks back at her, its powerful eyes glowing with the same energy she feels inside. She feels an overwhelming sense of pride. She did it.

But then, as if the victory wasn't enough, Natalie's thoughts turn to the prize—the Pokémon Egg. The announcer calls out the reward.

"And as the winner, Natalie will be receiving the grand prize: a Pokémon Egg!"

Natalie stares at the egg being handed to her, but something tugs at her heart. She thinks about how much this competition meant to her, but she also remembers Jeremiah—how he had helped her, supported her when she felt like giving up. It was him who had believed in her even when no one else did, even when she doubted herself.

Natalie glances at him, his expression a mix of pride and awe. Without thinking twice, she walks over to Jeremiah and holds out the Pokémon Egg.

"Jeremiah," she says, "you've been there for me this whole time. You helped me when I was about to give up. This… this is for you."

Jeremiah looks at the egg in her hands, his eyes widening in surprise. "Wait, really? For me?"

She nods. "Yeah. You deserve it. You believed in me when no one else did."

Jeremiah grins, his eyes shining with gratitude. "Thanks, Nat. I'll take care of it. This… this is the best thing ever."

The crowd continues to cheer in the background, but for Natalie, the moment feels perfect. She looks at her Gyarados one more time and smiles. This was just the beginning.

The campgrounds are alive with excitement as the campers gather around Natalie, showering her with congratulations. She can hardly believe it—she won the competition. Her victory still feels surreal, and the warm buzz of accomplishment fills her with pride.

"Nat, that was incredible! I can't believe you actually won!" Ash exclaims beside her, his eyes wide with admiration.

"I still can't believe it either," Natalie admits, still in shock. "I mean, Karpy really did it. A Magikarp turns into a Gyarados in one jump!"

The campers around them are all buzzing with excitement. "You really showed us what Magikarp can do!" one camper says, clapping Natalie on the back. Another one grins and says, "That Gyarados is going to be a powerhouse!"

Everyone is thrilled for her, but there's one person who isn't clapping or smiling—Tina. Standing at the edge of the crowd, Tina watches Natalie with a look of disdain, arms crossed and lips curled into a sarcastic sneer.

"Wow, so impressive," Tina says, her voice dripping with mockery. "A Magikarp turned into a Gyarados. Yeah, that's real impressive. Not." She steps forward, her voice loud enough for everyone to hear. "It's not like you did anything special. Just a fluke."

The murmurs around her turn uneasy as everyone shifts uncomfortably. Despite the crowd's positive energy, Tina's cutting words hang in the air.

Natalie's smile falters for a moment, but then she feels a sudden surge of confidence. Tina might be trying to tear her down, but she's not going to let her.

"Well, Tina," Natalie says, stepping toward her with a calm but steely gaze. "You can keep acting like a bully all you want, but it doesn't change the fact that I won." She lets the words hang in the air, each one meant to sting.

Tina's eyes narrow, clearly not expecting this. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Natalie doesn't back down. "It means that while you've been busy trying to make everyone else feel small, I've actually been out there training, working hard. I've been focusing on my Pokémon and myself, not throwing shade at others."

Tina scowls, her posture defensive. "You think you're some kind of hero now? What, because you won a competition with a fish?"

Natalie shrugs. "It's not about the fish. It's about the hard work and dedication I put into it. Something I'm sure you don't understand."

The crowd goes quiet for a moment, watching the exchange with interest. Tina, however, refuses to lose face.

"Whatever, you still don't have what it takes to be a real trainer. You're just lucky, that's all."

Natalie looks her up and down, feeling the urge to press even further. "If luck is all it takes to win, I guess you've been really unlucky, huh?"

Tina's face flushes with anger, but before she can snap back, her loyal follower Carlos steps forward, his usual passivity now replaced by an uncomfortable hesitation.

Tina glares at Carlos, her eyes narrowing. "Carlos, what are you standing there for? Help me out here!"

Carlos immediately jumps into action, moving to Tina's side with a slight, almost apologetic glance at Natalie. "Uh, right, Tina," he mutters, unsure of what exactly she expects him to do.

But Tina, in her fury, just pushes him forward, demanding, "Carlos, do something! Send her away already!"

Without missing a beat, Carlos moves in behind Tina and awkwardly gestures for Natalie to leave. "Yeah, uh, yeah. You should go, Natalie. Tina said…" He trails off, his voice lacking conviction.

The sight of Carlos, who would usually do anything Tina tells him, trying to stand up for her in such a half-hearted way, only makes Tina look worse. The crowd, which had once been in awe of her, is starting to turn, their attention focused now on the tension between the two.

"Carlos, you're embarrassing yourself," Natalie says, her tone no longer holding back. "Is this what you've come to? Letting Tina boss you around like that?"

Carlos glances down, his face flushed with awkwardness. He looks like he wants to speak but is too afraid to oppose Tina directly.

Tina huffs, hands on her hips. "Carlos, do your job! She's not worth your time. Get her out of here!"

Carlos sighs, his shoulders slumping in resignation. "Fine. Whatever." He looks at Natalie again, his expression apologetic. "You heard her, right? Just go already."

The crowd watches as Tina and Carlos argue, their small, almost pathetic drama unfolding right before everyone's eyes. It's clear to everyone now that Tina's position of power in the camp is slipping. No one really respects her when she's acting like this—especially with her own "minion" so visibly uncomfortable.

Natalie stands tall, smiling inwardly at the sight of Tina's crumbling attitude. "I don't need to be part of your little show, Tina. But maybe next time, you can try being a little nicer. Might get you a little more respect."

Tina opens her mouth to retort, but her words die in her throat. She's speechless, standing there with her arms crossed, unable to come up with anything that might save face.

Without another word, Natalie turns to Ash, who's been watching quietly, amused by the exchange. She starts walking away with him, leaving Tina fuming behind them. The campgrounds feel lighter now, the tension that Tina had built up evaporating with each step they take.

Ash grins. "That was awesome, Nat. You really showed her who's boss."

Natalie smiles, her confidence renewed. "I think I just showed her how much more fun it is to actually be nice to people. Maybe next time, Tina can try that." Behind them, the campers continue to chatter, some offering congratulations, others whispering about the recent showdown. Natalie can hear the laughter and see the smiles as she walks with Ash.