The sunlight gleamed off the towering skyscrapers of Saffron City, their sleek, modern designs a stark contrast to the quaint, nature-filled settings Ashley had gotten used to explore. She craned her neck to take it all in, her hat tipping back slightly as her eyes sparkled with curiosity. Beside her, Venus trotted along, her blue scarf fluttering lightly in the breeze, while Proserpina waddled at her other side, her petals swaying with each step.
Ashley adjusted the strap of her bag, grinning as she glanced down at her Pokémon. "Alright, girls, first things first—what's the vibe? Shopping? Food? Or do we hunt down one of those famous Saffron museums?"
Venus let out an enthusiastic chirp, hopping up onto her hind legs briefly, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Proserpina, ever the calmer of the two, tilted her head thoughtfully, her stubby arms folding in what Ashley could only describe as a "thinking pose."
"Venus wants shopping," Ashley said, laughing as the Eevee puffed out her chest proudly. "Proserpina's vote is... probably museums. You do give off those sophisticated vibes, don't you, girl?"
Proserpina hummed softly, swaying in agreement, her petals releasing a faint, pleasant scent that caught the attention of a passing child. The boy tugged on his mother's sleeve, pointing at the adorable Gloom, and Ashley couldn't help but wave.
"Tell you what," she said, leaning down conspiratorially toward her Pokémon, "we'll do both. Shopping first because Venus looks like she might explode if we don't."
Venus yipped excitedly, spinning in a quick circle before darting ahead. Ashley jogged to catch up, laughing as Proserpina kept pace, her waddling steps surprisingly determined. The trio wove through the bustling streets of Saffron, the city alive with people and Pokémon. Ashley spotted trainers walking with their Machops carrying heavy packages, and a Doduo courier expertly maneuvered through the crowd with a parcel strapped to its back.
"This place is wild," Ashley muttered, her grin widening. She spotted a store with an elaborate window display featuring sparkling Poké Dolls and trainer accessories. "Alright, Venus, let's check this out."
The store was as glamorous as its exterior suggested, with shelves lined with glittering ribbons, shiny decorations, and colorful Poké Puffs that looked almost too pretty to eat. Venus immediately darted toward a display of custom Pokémon collars and scarves, her tail wagging furiously as she nosed through the options.
"Venus, you're a menace," Ashley teased, picking up a pale green scarf embroidered with tiny leaves. She held it up for Proserpina, who inspected it with a critical eye before nodding her approval. "Good choice. Alright, let's grab this and—Venus, put that down!" Ashley lunged to stop Venus from dragging a sequined bow off the shelf.
After paying for the scarf and a few extra treats ("Because you're impossible to say no to," Ashley told Venus), the trio stepped back onto the bustling sidewalk. Proserpina wore her new scarf with an air of quiet dignity, and Ashley couldn't help but snap a quick picture with her Poké Nav.
"Alright, museum time," Ashley said, pulling up a map on her device. She tapped her chin thoughtfully. "There's one nearby all about Pokémon battling history. Sound good?"
Proserpina nodded enthusiastically, and even Venus seemed intrigued, tilting her head at the mention of battling. They made their way toward the museum, stopping occasionally to admire street performers and food vendors. Ashley grabbed a hot pretzel from one stall, tearing off a piece to share with Venus and Proserpina as they walked.
The museum was an architectural marvel, its glass façade reflecting the sunlight and giving it an almost ethereal glow. Inside, exhibits ranged from ancient battle tactics to the evolution of moves over the decades. Proserpina was fascinated, her wide eyes taking in every detail as Ashley read the plaques aloud. Venus, on the other hand, found herself captivated by the interactive displays, batting at holographic projections of famous Pokémon moves.
"Venus, you're supposed to learn from this, not fight it," Ashley said, laughing as the Eevee leaped at an illusion of Flamethrower.
Proserpina nudged Ashley's leg, drawing her attention to a display featuring historical Grass-type Pokémon. The exhibit detailed the contributions of Grass-types in the development of restorative moves, and Ashley felt a surge of pride as Proserpina stood taller, her petals glowing faintly under the soft museum lights.
"You're part of something pretty incredible, huh?" Ashley murmured, patting Proserpina's head. The Gloom hummed happily, her earlier confidence from the contest shining through once again.
As they left the museum, Ashley stretched her arms over her head, sighing contentedly. "Alright, girls, what's next? Food? Or just wander and see where we end up?"
Venus barked eagerly, and Proserpina gave a decisive nod. Ashley grinned, wrapping an arm around each of her Pokémon as they headed off down the bustling streets, ready to see where the day would take them.
Ashley sauntered down the cobblestone street with a bounce in her step, a mix of excitement and mischief twinkling in her eyes. The street was lined with charming boutiques, their windows filled with trinkets, accessories, and treats. Proserpina walked at her left, her new green scarf fluttering slightly in the breeze, while Venus trotted ahead, her bushy tail swishing with delight.
"Venus, I'm starting to think you might have a problem," Ashley said with a mock-serious tone, raising an eyebrow at her Eevee, who had her nose pressed against yet another shop window. This one featured a variety of small jewelry pieces, each one sparkling under delicate spotlights.
Venus turned back to her trainer, letting out a sharp, chirping bark as if to say, You don't understand. This is important. She pawed at the window dramatically, her eyes practically sparkling as they locked onto a small pearl accessory displayed near the center.
Ashley groaned, running a hand down her face but unable to suppress her grin. "Seriously? We just bought you all that stuff. Now you want jewelry too? You're gonna clean me out, girl."
Venus let out an insistent yip, sitting back on her haunches and staring at Ashley with her best puppy dog eyes. Ashley froze, her resolve faltering. Proserpina tilted her head, her petals swaying slightly as if judging whether Venus's manipulation would work.
"Don't look at me like that," Ashley muttered, crossing her arms and trying to stand her ground. "I'm not falling for it this time."
Venus tilted her head even further, her ears flattening slightly in an adorably calculated move. Ashley groaned louder.
"Fine!" she said, throwing her hands in the air. "But you're not getting a shopping allowance or anything. This is a one-time deal, got it?"
Venus barked in triumph, bouncing on her paws before darting toward the shop door. Ashley chuckled, shaking her head as she followed. "I swear, you've got expensive taste for someone who doesn't have a wallet. You are lucky I still have some leftover from my reward money."
The shop was small but cozy, filled with glass cases displaying delicate accessories for both trainers and Pokémon. A cheerful clerk greeted them as they entered, and Venus wasted no time hopping onto the counter—much to Ashley's embarrassment.
"Venus! You can't just—" She sighed as the clerk laughed, waving a hand dismissively.
"It's alright," the clerk said, her smile warm. "Looks like someone knows exactly what they want."
Venus's paw tapped insistently on the glass above the pearl accessory. Ashley leaned over, eyeing the small but elegant piece. It was a perfectly round pearl set on a tiny golden clasp, designed to attach to scarves or collars.
"Wow, Venus," Ashley said, raising an eyebrow. "You've got an eye for the fancy stuff, huh?"
The clerk chuckled as she retrieved the piece, holding it up for Ashley to inspect. "This is one of our most popular designs. Simple, elegant, and versatile."
Ashley glanced down at Venus, who was practically vibrating with anticipation, then at Proserpina, who had wandered over to inspect a display of flower-themed brooches. "What do you think, Proserpina? Does Venus pull off 'elegant'?"
Proserpina gave a hum that sounded suspiciously like agreement, her petals swaying as if nodding. Ashley sighed, feigning exasperation. "Alright, alright. How much?"
After a quick exchange, Ashley clipped the pearl onto Venus's scarf. The Eevee immediately puffed out her chest, prancing around the shop like a model on a runway. Ashley and the clerk laughed as Venus paused in front of a mirror, admiring her reflection.
"You happy now?" Ashley teased, crouching down to ruffle Venus's ears. "You're gonna have to win a lot of battles to earn back the money I've spent on you today."
Venus barked happily, licking Ashley's cheek before spinning in a circle and posing again. Proserpina waddled over, giving Venus an approving nudge with her petals, and Ashley couldn't help but laugh at her Pokémon's antics.
"Alright, fashionistas, let's get out of here before Venus decides she needs a crown or something." Ashley stood, adjusting her bag and nodding at the clerk. "Thanks again!"
As they stepped back onto the street, Venus strutted proudly, her new accessory gleaming in the sunlight. Proserpina walked beside her, her scarf flowing gently in the breeze, while Ashley trailed behind, grinning.
"You know," Ashley mused, looking down at her team, "I thought this was supposed to be my day off, but somehow you two ended up being the stars. You're lucky I love you both."
Venus yipped in agreement, and Proserpina gave a content hum as the trio continued down the bustling street.
They found a lovely café next. It was tucked away on a quieter street, with cozy outdoor seating shaded by striped awnings. Ashley pushed open the door, the cheerful chime of the bell above announcing their arrival. The smell of fresh pancakes and brewed coffee filled the air, and Ashley's stomach growled. Venus and Proserpina looked equally eager, their eyes darting toward the display case filled with desserts.
"Alright, team," Ashley said, clapping her hands together as they approached the counter. "Pancakes it is. But no fighting over toppings. Everyone gets their own."
Venus let out a chirpy bark, her tail wagging, while Proserpina hummed, her petals swaying gently as if already imagining the flavors. The menu was scrawled in looping handwriting on a chalkboard, listing an assortment of pancake flavors and toppings.
Ashley leaned down to her Pokémon. "Okay, you get to choose. Proserpina, what's it gonna be?"
Proserpina waddled up to the counter, her wide eyes scanning the options. Her gaze stopped on a photo of fluffy pancakes drizzled with matcha glaze and dusted with powdered sugar. She pointed with one stubby arm, giving an insistent hum.
"Matcha, huh?" Ashley grinned. "Classy choice. Venus, your turn."
Venus didn't even hesitate. She jumped up to place her paws on the counter, her nose pointing directly at a picture of pancakes topped with a mountain of blueberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of syrup. She turned to Ashley with a triumphant bark, clearly satisfied with her decision.
Ashley rolled her eyes, laughing. "Of course, blueberries. Why am I not surprised?" She glanced at the menu herself, tapping her chin. "Hmm… Guess I'll keep it classic. Strawberries for me."
The barista smiled as she took their order, clearly amused by the dynamic. "Coming right up. Feel free to grab a table!"
Ashley led the way to a sunny spot near the window. Venus hopped onto the bench beside her, while Proserpina sat across from them, her petals quivering as she admired the plants decorating the café. Small succulents and trailing ivy lined the shelves, and Proserpina gave an approving hum.
"Don't get any ideas about stealing their decorations," Ashley teased, pointing a finger at her Gloom. "We're here for pancakes, not plant souvenirs."
Proserpina looked mock-offended, crossing her stubby arms. Venus snickered, nudging her friend playfully with her paw.
Soon, their plates arrived, and Ashley's mouth watered at the sight. The pancakes were stacked high and perfectly golden, with each topping arranged like a work of art. Proserpina's matcha glaze sparkled in the sunlight, Venus's blueberries practically glowed, and Ashley's strawberries were sliced into delicate hearts.
"Alright, dig in!" Ashley said, grabbing her fork.
Venus didn't need any encouragement. She dove face-first into her plate, licking at the whipped cream with wild abandon. Proserpina, on the other hand, approached her stack more delicately. She took small, precise bites, savoring each taste of the earthy matcha and fluffy pancake.
Ashley took a bite of her strawberry pancakes, groaning happily. "Oh, man. This was such a good idea. You guys have great taste."
Venus lifted her head, her face covered in whipped cream and let out a proud bark. Proserpina nodded solemnly, as if agreeing with Ashley's assessment.
Between bites, Ashley leaned back, soaking in the moment. The café buzzed with quiet conversation, and the sunlight streaming through the window made everything feel warm and peaceful. Ashley was mid-bite into her fluffy strawberry pancake, the sweetness of the syrup blending perfectly with the tart strawberries, when a familiar voice cut through her peaceful moment.
"Well, if it isn't Saffron's rising star," Damian said with a smirk as he approached the table, Haunter floating lazily behind him.
Ashley nearly choked on her bite, her eyes widening as she waved him off, trying to gulp down her food quickly. "Rising star? Pfft, hardly." She gestured to the empty seat across from her. "What are you doing here?"
"Pancakes," Damian replied casually, sliding into the chair as Haunter cackled and phased through the table to hover beside him. "And congratulating you again, I guess. That appeal? Solid. And Neptune? Beast mode. I mean, seriously, who knew Lapras could be so terrifying?"
Ashley grinned, scratching the back of her head as she tried not to blush at the compliment. "Neptune's a show-off when he wants to be, but thanks. And hey, you weren't too bad yourself. That Tyrogue's got some moves."
Damian gave a mock bow, the corner of his mouth quirking upward. "He tries. So," he leaned forward, resting his arms on the table, "why are you still here? Figured you'd already be on the road to the next contest."
Ashley shook her head, stabbing her fork into another piece of pancake. "Nah, I'm also doing the Gym Challenge. Sabrina's next on my list, so I'm sticking around for a bit before heading to the gym."
Damian let out a low whistle, sitting back in his chair. "Gym battles and contests? That's ambitious. You trying to collect all the trophies in Kanto or what?"
Venus, perched on the bench beside Ashley, let out a small bark of agreement, her pearl accessory glinting in the sunlight. Proserpina, still nibbling delicately at her matcha pancakes, glanced up and gave a soft hum, as if seconding the sentiment.
Ashley shrugged, though her grin betrayed a hint of pride. "I mean, why not? Gyms make me stronger as a trainer, and contests let me show off what my Pokémon can do. They're both important, you know?"
Damian tapped his chin thoughtfully. "Yeah, but it's rare. Most coordinators I know stick to contests. They don't think gyms matter—or worse, they think they're boring." He rolled his eyes dramatically. "All those flashy moves, and they forget that battles are where the real strategy comes in."
Ashley nodded, her expression serious. "Exactly! I mean, don't get me wrong, I love contests, but gyms push me to think differently. It's not just about looking good; it's about adapting, planning, and, y'know, winning." She paused, pointing her fork at Damian. "Why don't you try it? You're all about unpredictability. Gyms could be your thing."
Damian chuckled, leaning back as Haunter floated closer, playfully swiping at Venus's scarf. Venus batted Haunter away with her paw, huffing indignantly. "Me? Nah. I'm all about the theatrics. Gyms are... too straightforward for me. I like keeping my opponents guessing."
Ashley raised an eyebrow, smirking. "Oh yeah? You mean like how you kept me guessing when you stole my hat? Real subtle."
Damian laughed, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Okay, okay, point taken. But seriously, it's cool that you're doing both. Shows you're not afraid to step out of your comfort zone."
Ashley glanced at her Pokémon, her expression softening. "It's not just me. My team's the one stepping up, learning all these crazy moves and adapting to whatever's thrown at us. I couldn't do it without them."
Proserpina straightened at the compliment, her petals quivering with pride, while Venus let out a happy chirp, wagging her tail. Even Haunter gave a slow clap, his mischievous grin making it impossible to tell if it was genuine or just teasing.
Damian smiled, nodding. "Well, if anyone can pull it off, it's you. Just... don't let Sabrina freak you out, alright? Word is she's intense."
Ashley snorted, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Intense is an understatement. But hey, I'll figure it out. I always do."
The two trainers continued to chat, their Pokémon interacting like old friends. Proserpina hummed quietly as she shared her pancakes with Venus, while Haunter floated overhead, occasionally flipping Damian's hood up just to annoy him.
Ashley tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her eyes as she adjusted her hat. "So, Damian, why are you still in Saffron City anyway? I have the gym, but should you not be looking for your next contest." She smirked mischievously. "Especially, since you lost this one."
"Cheeky girl," Damian laughed, leaning back in his chair and letting Haunter hover lazily over his shoulder. "Oh, I've got my reasons. Mainly the Fighting Dojo. They specialize in the Tyrogue line, and I figured they might help my little guy figure out where he wants to go, y'know? Hitmonlee, Hitmonchan, Hitmontop… the whole evolution shebang. My Pokémon has been wired up a lot lately, I think he might be close to evolving. Maybe they are the last push he needs."
Ashley leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table, clearly intrigued. "Wait, they can help with that? Like… training for specific evolutions?"
"Yeah, apparently," Damian replied, twirling a fork absentmindedly. "They've got all kinds of exercises and techniques to shape Tyrogue's growth. Plus, it's supposed to be a killer workout for other Pokémon too. Something about mastering moves that emphasize precision and power."
Ashley's face lit up, her grin spreading wide. "Mars could use that! And now that you mention it, I bet Vulcan and Venus would get a kick out of it too—literally."
Damian chuckled, tapping the table with his knuckles. "What're you thinking?"
Ashley smirked, counting on her fingers. "Mars could pick up Brick Break—he's all about raw strength anyway, so it'd fit his style. It would work perfectly against Sabrina and her Light Screen too! And Vulcan? Double Kick would round out his moveset nicely. Venus too, actually. She's got agility to spare, so teaching her a physical move would make her even more versatile."
Damian raised an eyebrow, impressed. "You've really thought this through, huh?"
Ashley shrugged, grinning. "That's what happens when you've got a team like mine. You've gotta stay one step ahead, or they'll start running the show."
Haunter snickered, phasing through the table to poke at Venus's pearl accessory. Venus swatted at him with a paw, her nose scrunching up in mock irritation. Proserpina watched the exchange with a bemused hum, still savoring the last bite of her matcha pancakes.
"So, what d'you say?" Ashley leaned back, folding her arms. "Mind if we tag along? I'd love to check this place out. It was supposed to be a girls day out, but let's be real, Mars could probably use a day of punching things."
Damian's grin widened, his sharp eyes glinting with mischief. "Why not? Sounds like a good time. But just so you know," he added with a playful smirk, "those guys don't mess around. You ready to sweat?"
Ashley laughed, rolling her shoulders as if prepping for a match. "Oh, please. This dojo's got nothing on my previous workouts."
They stood up to pay for their food and left the café. The streets of Saffron City buzzed with life, the hum of traffic and chatter filling the air as Ashley and Damian strolled side by side. The city seemed to glow under the setting sun, the glass windows of towering skyscrapers reflecting the warm hues of orange and pink. Ashley tilted her head up, admiring the way the city skyline seemed to stretch endlessly.
"This city's something else," Ashley said, adjusting her cap. "Feels like you could spend a week here and not see everything."
Damian chuckled, hands stuffed casually into his jacket pockets. "Yeah, it's got that vibe. Kinda makes you feel small, huh? Like the city's got its own personality or something."
Ashley nodded, her grin widening. "I mean, it's not as cool as, say, ninja mazes or volcano islands, but it's got its charm."
"What kind of places have you been to?" Damian asked her stunned.
The two laughed, their easy banter blending with the city noise. Venus trotted beside Ashley, her blue scarf fluttering as she peered curiously into shop windows, her nose twitching at the array of scents wafting out. Proserpina waddled along on Ashley's other side, her petals gently swaying with each step. She seemed content for the most part, though her eyes darted around warily, as if on edge.
"Venus looks like she's about to spend more of your money," Damian joked, nodding toward the Eevee. "You better keep her out of trouble."
Ashley groaned playfully, running a hand through her hair. "Tell me about it. That pearl accessory she picked out? Not cheap. But hey, how can you say no to this face?" She leaned down, giving Venus a quick scratch behind her ears.
Venus chirped happily, wagging her tail, but her joy was short-lived. From the shadows of a nearby alley, Haunter materialized, his grin as wide as ever. He floated silently behind Venus, his mischievous gaze locked onto her. With a quick flick of his spectral hands, he made a faint, ghostly noise.
Venus froze, her ears perking up as she whipped her head around, eyes wide. Seeing nothing, she let out a low growl, her fur bristling slightly.
"Relax, Venus," Ashley said, raising an eyebrow. "It's probably just—"
Before she could finish, Haunter struck again, this time appearing directly in front of Venus with a loud "Boo!" His face distorted into a dramatic mask of mock horror.
Venus yelped, hopping backward and colliding into Proserpina, who stumbled with a startled grunt. The Gloom let out an indignant hum, shaking herself off and glaring up at Haunter.
"Haunter!" Damian called, his tone a mix of amusement and exasperation. "What did we say about scaring Pokémon just for fun?"
Haunter shrugged, his grin never faltering as he floated back to Damian. Proserpina, however, wasn't letting it go. She puffed herself up, releasing a faint but sweet-smelling Sweet Scent that surrounded Haunter like a fragrant fog.
"Looks like she's got her own way of handling things," Ashley said with a laugh, watching as Haunter recoiled dramatically, pretending to gag and swoon under the effects of the scent. Venus, meanwhile, regained her composure, sticking close to Ashley and eyeing Haunter suspiciously.
Damian smirked, giving Haunter a playful nudge as he floated beside him. "Alright, enough messing around. Don't make me send Tyrogue after you."
Haunter blew a raspberry in response before vanishing back into the shadows, though the faint sound of his laughter lingered in the air.
Ashley shook her head, her grin never leaving. "Your Haunter's a menace. I don't know how you keep up with him."
"Pure talent," Damian quipped, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "But hey, he's got his charm. Kinda like me."
Ashley rolled her eyes, but the laugh that followed gave her away. "Sure, if by 'charm' you mean 'trouble.'" She glanced down at Venus and Proserpina, both of whom were still recovering from Haunter's antics. "You guys okay?"
Venus let out a huff, tossing her head as if to say, Barely. Proserpina, on the other hand, simply hummed in acknowledgment, her gaze fixed ahead with a determined glint.
"Proserpina's taking this whole 'don't mess with me' vibe to a new level," Damian observed, nodding toward the Gloom.
Ashley laughed, patting Proserpina on the head. "She's got that post-contest confidence. Haunter's just lucky she kept it non-effective and didn't break out the Stun Spore."
Damian raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Now that would've been a show."
As they continued walking, the city seemed to come alive around them—street performers showcasing their talents on busy corners, neon signs flickering to life as the sun dipped lower, and the smell of fresh food wafting through the air. For a moment, it felt like the world outside of Saffron didn't exist, the city's vibrant energy wrapping around them like a warm blanket.
"You know," Ashley said, glancing at Damian, "I could get used to days like this. Just wandering around, no battles, no contests. Just… hanging out."
Damian smirked. "Don't get too comfortable. You've got a badge to earn, remember?"
Ashley groaned, but her smile didn't fade. "Yeah, yeah. I know. And I cannot wait!"
With that, the two trainers and their Pokémon disappeared into the bustling streets, their laughter blending seamlessly with the rhythm of the city. Five minutes later, Ashley found herself standing outside the Fighting Dojo, her eyes narrowing as she took in the stark contrast between its traditional structure and the sleek modernity of the rest of Saffron City. The wooden beams, sliding paper doors, and red lanterns gave it a distinct air of old-world charm, almost as if the building were a relic transported straight out of Kantonian history.
"Wow," Ashley said, adjusting her cap. "This place sticks out like a sore thumb." She gestured dramatically to the dojo. "Saffron's all skyscrapers and neon signs, but then there's this—'Ancient Martial Arts 101.'"
Damian smirked, stepping up beside her. "Hey, maybe that's the point. Makes it easier to spot when you're looking for a challenge."
Ashley rolled her eyes but laughed as she pushed open the heavy wooden door. Inside, the dojo smelled of sandalwood and effort—polished wooden floors gleamed under the warm light of hanging lanterns, and the soft thuds of feet on mats echoed in the vast space.
It wasn't just the atmosphere that caught Ashley's attention, though. The dojo was filled with men, each one engaged in rigorous training. Some sparred with their Pokémon, others practiced their form alone, their movements sharp and deliberate. The sheer focus and intensity in the room were almost palpable.
Ashley raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "Hmm. A bunch of guys throwing punches and pretending women can't keep up. Typical."
Before Damian could respond, a deep voice boomed from the far end of the room. "Oh? And who says women can't keep up?"
Ashley looked up, startled, as the dojo master approached. He was an older man, his build sturdy and his expression stern yet kind. His long black hair was tied back, and his traditional martial arts gi was pristine, contrasting with the calluses on his hands that spoke of years of experience.
"Uh, well…" Ashley hesitated, realizing her muttering had been overheard. "I just—there aren't any women here, and—"
"An oversight," the master interrupted, his tone thoughtful. "But if you believe women can stand equal to men in the art of fighting, why not prove it?"
Ashley blinked. "Prove it?"
"Indeed." He clapped his hands, and two assistants appeared, each holding neatly folded training uniforms. Before Ashley could protest, the master added, "You and your Pokémon will train here, as equals to anyone else who walks through these doors."
Ashley's jaw dropped as the assistants handed her and Damian the uniforms. "Wait, you mean now?"
Damian stifled a laugh as he accepted his gi. "Guess we're not just tourists anymore."
Ashley pouted, glaring at him. "Don't act so smug. You're getting roped into this, too." Ashley sighed, reluctantly heading to the changing area, after releasing Mars and Vulcan so they could join their teammates. "This better not turn into another Koga situation," she muttered under her breath.
When Ashley returned to the mat, she felt a strange mix of déjà vu and hilarity. The white gi felt stiff, the belt awkwardly tied around her waist. She adjusted the fabric, shooting a glare at Damian, who looked far too comfortable in his uniform.
"Don't laugh," she warned.
"I'm not laughing," Damian said, grinning. "I'm just… appreciating the moment."
Ashley groaned, turning her attention to the dojo master, who stood in the center of the room, arms crossed. "Alright," she said, trying to sound confident. "What's first?"
"The basics," the master replied, gesturing to the mats. "Footwork, stances, and discipline. And your Pokémon will train alongside you. They must learn to sync with your movements, for in combat, trainer and Pokémon are one."
Ashley felt a shiver of familiarity run down her spine. The words reminded her of Koga's teachings, and for a brief moment, she wondered if she was cursed to endure endless ninja-esque training regimens.
"Okay," she said, shaking it off. "Let's do this."
The master nodded and began demonstrating a series of movements—simple but precise. Ashley and Damian mimicked his steps, their Pokémon doing their best to follow along. Mars quickly fell into rhythm, his natural intensity making him an eager student. Vulcan, on the other hand, kept pausing to glance at Venus, as if silently asking if this was all really necessary.
Venus, to her credit, tried to keep up, her tiny paws darting across the mat. But halfway through a stance change, she tripped over her scarf, landing in an ungraceful heap.
Ashley knelt down, hiding a smile as she helped Venus to her feet. "You okay, fashionista? Maybe tie it a little tighter next time?"
Venus huffed, shaking herself off and trying again, her determination shining through.
As the session continued, the moves became more complex. On one side, their Pokémon were gathered around seasoned Fighting-types—Primeape, Hitmonlee, and Hitmonchan—each receiving individual instruction tailored to their abilities. On the other side of the mat, Ashley and Damian faced a line of human instructors, all dressed in traditional gis, their serious expressions adding a layer of gravity to the moment.
Damian cracked his knuckles, rolling his shoulders back with a smirk. "This'll be easy," he said, eyeing the black belts in front of them. "I've been in plenty of scraps back home."
Ashley raised an eyebrow, adjusting the belt on her gi. "Yeah, sure. Keep telling yourself that. Just don't cry when you hit the mat."
Proserpina, watching from the sidelines, let out a cheerful hum, her stubby arms waving in encouragement. The Gloom had positioned herself comfortably on a wooden bench, acting like Ashley's personal cheer squad.
The lead instructor stepped forward, his arms crossed. "This is not a sparring match," he said, his tone firm. "This is about precision, patience, and the ability to read your opponent. Strength alone will not suffice."
Ashley smirked, her hands on her hips. "Sounds good to me. Let's do this."
The instructor nodded, and with a sharp clap of his hands, two black belts stepped forward, their stances low and poised. One faced Damian, who immediately dropped into a defensive position, his grin widening.
"Alright, bring it on!" he said, bouncing slightly on the balls of his feet.
Ashley, meanwhile, took a deep breath, her gaze locking onto her opponent. The black belt in front of her was taller and broader, his movements deliberate as he began to circle her.
The first strike came fast—a sweeping kick aimed at her legs. Ashley sidestepped smoothly, her body turning just enough to let the kick sail past her.
"Too slow," she quipped, flashing a grin.
The black belt didn't respond, his expression stoic as he reset his stance and came at her again, this time with a series of punches. Ashley's heart raced, but her training with Koga kicked in. She kept her movements minimal, letting the punches glide past her as she stayed just outside his reach.
On the other side of the mat, Damian was struggling. His opponent was relentless, landing sharp strikes that forced him to backpedal. "Hey, no one said you'd actually hit back!" he called, wincing as he narrowly avoided a palm strike.
Ashley chuckled, but her focus didn't waver. Her opponent lunged forward, aiming to grab her arm and throw her off balance. Instead of resisting, Ashley shifted her weight, stepping into the motion. At the last second, she pivoted, using the black belt's momentum against him.
With a sharp twist, she flipped him over her shoulder, sending him sprawling onto the mat. The thud echoed through the dojo, and Proserpina cheered loudly, her stubby arms waving wildly.
"That's my cheerleader!" Ashley called back, giving her Gloom a playful salute.
The black belt got to his feet, nodding in approval. "Impressive. You've trained with a master."
Ashley shrugged, adjusting her gi. "Let's just say I had a tough teacher."
Meanwhile, Damian finally managed to get a foothold in his match. With a well-timed sidestep, he dodged a punch and countered with a shoulder tackle, sending his opponent stumbling. "Ha! Told you I've got moves!" he shouted, grinning over at Ashley.
"Yeah, sure," she teased, rolling her eyes. "Let's see if you can actually land something next time."
The session continued, each challenge becoming more complex. Ashley faced a series of opponents, each testing a different skill—quick reflexes, precise strikes, and grappling techniques. She wasn't the strongest or the fastest, but her ability to wait for the right moment and use her opponent's momentum made her a formidable match.
By the time the instructors called for a break, Ashley was drenched in sweat but grinning from ear to ear. She plopped down beside Proserpina, who immediately hopped onto her lap, humming contentedly.
Ashley was still taking a break when she noticed Damian's stunned expression. He was staring at her as if she'd just flipped the entire dojo on its head—which, technically, she had. "You okay there, buddy?" she teased, shaking her arms out. "You look like you've just seen a ghost."
Damian blinked, then laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I mean, I knew you were tough, but that? You were out there tossing black belts like they were pillows."
Ashley shrugged, scratching Proserpina's head. "Let's just say Koga wasn't big on letting me sit still. Half my training was just surviving his crazy ninja boot camp."
Damian laughed, leaning back against the wall. "Well, it's paying off. I thought I'd have to carry us through this, but you're stealing the show."
Ashley smirked, tossing a towel over his face. "Don't get too comfortable. We've got more training ahead, and I'm not letting you slack off."
Before Damian could reply, a loud commotion from the other side of the dojo caught their attention. The sound of claws scraping against mats, excited barks, and something that sounded suspiciously like a punch echoed across the room. Both trainers turned to see Ashley's Pokémon swarming Damian's Tyrogue.
"Whoa, what's going on over there?" Ashley asked, jogging over with Damian hot on her heels.
Proserpina was already by the mats (freaking Pokémon speed!) hopping up and down, cheering wildly as Mars squared off with Tyrogue. The Charmeleon was grinning, his tail flame flickering brighter than usual as he brought down his claws with a clean Brick Break that Tyrogue barely dodged. Vulcan and Venus were circling, their movements in perfect sync as they launched into a combined Double Kick, forcing Tyrogue to leap back with surprising agility.
"Hey! What are you guys doing?" Ashley called, though her voice carried more curiosity than scolding.
"Ty!" Tyrogue barked defiantly, his fists raised. The little Fighting-type wasn't backing down, even as Mars lunged forward for another Brick Break.
Damian whistled, impressed. "Looks like Tyrogue's showing off. And, uh, holding his own pretty well."
Ashley crossed her arms, watching with a mix of amusement and concern. "Yeah, but against three of them? That's a bit much, don't you think?" She stepped forward, ready to intervene, but Damian put a hand on her shoulder. "Especially, since my Pokémon are trained for the Gym Challenge circuit and yours is not."
"Wait," he said, his voice quieter. "Let's see where this goes."
Ashley hesitated, but as she watched, she realized that Tyrogue wasn't just holding his own—he was thriving. Every time Mars swung a Brick Break, Tyrogue countered with a quick dodge or block, his footwork precise and his fists steady. When Vulcan and Venus rushed him with their Double Kicks, he ducked low, weaving between their strikes with an agility that seemed almost effortless.
Then, just as Vulcan landed a glancing blow, Tyrogue's entire body began to glow.
"Oh, no way," Ashley breathed, her eyes wide.
The light around Tyrogue intensified, expanding outward in a radiant sphere that filled the dojo with an almost blinding glow. The air seemed to hum with energy, and everyone—trainers, Pokémon, and instructors alike—paused to watch the transformation unfold. Tyrogue's small, scrappy frame was barely visible within the cocoon of light, but the faint outlines of his body began to change.
His arms stretched, growing longer and more muscular, and his legs straightened, giving him a more defined and upright stance. His rounded head shifted, becoming more angular and determined, as if the very act of evolving was forging his fighting spirit anew. The glow pulsed rhythmically, like a heartbeat, as his gloved hands formed, the gloves themselves appearing as if woven from the radiant energy surrounding him.
The bright sphere pulsed one final time before the light shattered outward like shards of glass, dissipating into the air. Standing in Tyrogue's place was a fully evolved Hitmonchan, his form sleek and powerful, his stance exuding confidence and discipline. His gloved fists gleamed, one striking out in a controlled jab as though testing his newfound strength, while his piercing eyes scanned the room with a sharper focus than ever before.
"Hitmon!" he declared, his voice deeper and more resonant than the playful tone he'd had as a Tyrogue. He raised his fists into a ready position, his movements smooth and precise, the product of natural talent honed into something more.
The room fell silent for a moment, the trainees and instructors watching with awe. Even Mars stopped mid-attack, his claws still raised as he stared at the newly evolved Pokémon.
Damian blinked in awe before a grin broke across his face. "Whoa, buddy! Look at you!" He rushed forward, dropping to one knee to meet Hitmonchan at eye level. Hitmonchan turned toward his trainer, a glimmer of pride in his gaze, and offered Damian a quick fist bump. Damian laughed, the sound echoing through the dojo. "I knew you had it in you!"
Ashley couldn't help but grin. "That's awesome. Congrats, Ty—uh, Hitmonchan!" She clapped her hands, and Proserpina joined in, her stubby arms flailing as she hummed in excitement.
As Damian stood beside his newly evolved Hitmonchan, the energy in the dojo felt electric. He patted his partner on the shoulder, his grin stretching ear to ear. "You've been holding out on me, huh?" Damian teased. Hitmonchan responded with a series of quick jabs at the air, each punch a blur of movement that left faint ripples in the dojo's warm air.
"Alright, alright, save some of that energy for the real battles," Damian said, laughing as he stood up, giving Hitmonchan a nod of approval. "You earned it, buddy."
Ashley watched the scene with a smile, her hands on her hips as Mars came to lean against her leg, arms crossed in his usual cool demeanor. Vulcan barked excitedly, hopping up on his hind legs to nudge Mars, who eventually relented with a quiet grunt of approval. Venus joined in the celebration by trotting over to Hitmonchan and tugging gently at one of his gloves with her teeth, as if testing their durability.
As the commotion settled slightly, the dojo master approached Ashley, his hands tucked behind his back and a thoughtful expression on his weathered face. His movements were deliberate, the kind of measured calm that only came with years of discipline and experience. "You know," he began, his deep voice cutting smoothly through the hum of conversation, "that Tyrogue of Damian's... he's been on the cusp of evolving for weeks."
Ashley blinked in surprise, tilting her head as she looked up at the master. "Really? He seemed pretty solid already."
The master nodded slowly, his gaze drifting to the now-proud Hitmonchan standing tall beside Damian. "He had the strength and the will, yes. But sometimes, a Pokémon needs more than just training—they need a challenge that truly pushes them. A moment where they can test the limits of their potential. That's where your Pokémon came in."
Ashley glanced at Mars, who was preening slightly under the praise, and then at Vulcan and Venus, who looked equally proud of their roles in the showdown. "Wait, so you're saying we helped him evolve?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief.
The master's lips curled into a faint smile. "Indeed. Your Charmeleon, Growlithe, and Eevee gave him that push. Their determination, their skill—it brought out the best in Tyrogue. He needed that final spark, and you and your team provided it."
Ashley blinked, the weight of the words sinking in. A grin slowly spread across her face. "Huh. Guess we're pretty good at this teamwork thing."
The master chuckled, a sound like distant thunder. "You underestimate yourself, young one. Your bond with your Pokémon is strong, and it shows in how they train, how they fight. You have a knack for bringing out the best in those around you."
Ashley scratched the back of her head, feeling a blush creep up her cheeks. "Thanks, sensei. That means a lot." Then, with a mischievous smirk, she added, "Though I think Mars here would argue it's mostly his doing."
Mars let out a low growl of agreement, his tail flame flaring slightly as he gave a mock nod of superiority. Vulcan barked in protest, jumping up to paw at Mars's arm, and Venus let out a soft chirp, clearly siding with Vulcan.
The dojo master chuckled again, watching the playful banter unfold. "Your team's spirit is commendable. They remind me of my own partners when I was younger—always pushing each other to be better."
Ashley smiled, her heart swelling with pride as she looked at her Pokémon. "We've still got a long way to go, but we're giving it everything we've got."
The master nodded. "And that's what makes a true trainer." He gestured toward the training area, where several other Pokémon were sparring under the watchful eyes of their trainers. "If you'd like, we can continue your training. I believe your Charmeleon was working on mastering Brick Break?"
Ashley's eyes lit up, and she turned to Mars, who straightened immediately, his tail swishing with excitement. "Hear that, Mars? Time to show these black belts what you've got."
Mars let out a confident growl, striding toward the training area with his head held high. Vulcan and Venus followed, eager to continue their own lessons, while Ashley turned back to the dojo master.
"Thanks for giving us this chance," she said sincerely. "And for letting my team jump in with Tyrogue—I mean, Hitmonchan."
The master inclined his head. "It was my pleasure. Your journey is just beginning, but with your spirit, I have no doubt you'll accomplish great things."
With that, Ashley joined her Pokémon in the training area, her determination renewed. As Mars practiced Brick Break under the guidance of a seasoned Hitmonlee, and Vulcan and Venus worked tirelessly on their Double Kick techniques, Ashley couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging in the dojo. The sound of punches hitting targets, the steady rhythm of kicks, and the encouragement of trainers filled the air, a symphony of hard work and growth.
From the sidelines, Damian watched the scene unfold, his arms crossed and a smirk on his face. "Looks like you're fitting right in," he called out to Ashley.
She turned, flashing him a grin. "What can I say? We're naturals."
Damian chuckled. "Yeah, I can tell. You're lucky to have a Pokémon that pushes you like that." His gaze shifted to Hitmonchan, who was busy shadowboxing nearby, testing the speed and power of his new form. "We're sticking around Saffron for a bit. The dojo's got some advanced training, and Hitmonchan's going to need it if we're going to get him comfortable with all these new moves and that extra muscle."
Ashley crossed her arms, tilting her head. "Makes sense. Evolution's a big deal—new moves, new strengths. Gotta learn to control all that power."
"Exactly," Damian said, his tone turning a bit more serious. "But hey, when you go to take on Sabrina next. Mind if I tag along? I wouldn't want to miss watching your team throw down in a gym battle."
Ashley raised an eyebrow, a teasing smirk tugging at her lips. "What, you're not scared of Sabrina's Psychic-types messing with your head?"
Damian scoffed, waving her off. "Please. Haunter here's already got me used to a little chaos." He gestured toward his ghostly companion, who cackled in agreement and promptly phased through Vulcan, causing the Growlithe to leap up with a startled bark.
Ashley snorted, watching as Haunter dodged Vulcan's halfhearted swipes. "Alright, fine. You can come. But don't be surprised if my team steals the show."
"Looking forward to it," Damian replied with a grin. He extended a hand toward her. "Deal?"
Ashley took his hand, shaking it firmly. "Deal."
As they released the handshake, Venus nudged Ashley's leg, letting out a curious chirp. Ashley crouched down again, scratching behind Venus's ears. "Don't worry, girl. You'll get your chance to shine, too. Sabrina's not ready for what we're bringing."
Mars let out a low growl of approval, his arms still crossed as if to say, Of course she's not.