Hey readers - here we are with the next new chapter : )
I don't actually have an awful lot to say this time, so I'm just going to move on to the results of last week's voting topic. I am pleased to announce that the winner of the last voting topic was... Chinchou!
Now, I'm actually kind of in two minds about this one. I absolutely adore this line. I think it's actually one of the few evolutionary lines in Pokemon where only having two in it doesn't feel like something's missing. I don't think it needs a baby form or an evolution. Plus, both Chinchou and Lanturn are SO Cute, so I'm happy that Nolan will be getting one, especially considering it'll be unique in his dual type compared to all of Nolan's other Water Type Pokemon. My only drawback is, I was actually hoping you guys would go for one of the others, so that I could get a Chinchou/Lanturn in the eventual Hoenn Nuzlocke, where they come in abundance in all those water-only routes. It would have been a nice opportunity to broaden out Nolan's Johto Pokemon even after this particular Nuzlocke comes to a close. Still, I can't complain too much about that : )
Also, I really want to give a 'Shout-Out' to a new reviewer. Thank you very much to Joy 7658. This reviewer is the first one ever to offer up a potential name for Nolan's newest Pokemon. I won't say what the suggestion is here in case some readers don't want spoilers, but I thought the name offered up was SUPER cute, very fitting for a Chinchou/Lanturn, and much cleverer than the idea I had lingering at the back of my mind, so thank you Joy 7658 for the suggestion : )
Beyond that, I just want to say a GIGANTIC thank you to everyone that has reviewed, favourited, and followed this story. The support that has been shown to the story is amazing, and it means so much to me, so thank you : )
Please remember that Pokemon is not mine, only my OC's are : )
I hope you enjoy this chapter : )
Bulbasaur and the Hidden Village - Part 6
The sun hung low in the sky, casting an ominous glow over the enormous inflatable stadium that loomed high above the Hidden Village. Its vibrant colours belied the chaos it had already managed unleash, and on the rooftop, Team Rocket continued to stand as the orchestrators of the seemingly never ending mischief.
Jessie's eyes narrowed, a storm brewing behind them as she glared down at the snug cabin nestled among the trees. She could almost see the twerps bustling about, frantically carrying wild Pokemon inside, like precious treasures being hidden away from prying hands.
It was infuriating to say the least.
"Those rotten little pests!" she snarled, her teeth and fists clenched out of sheer frustration, "They're always ruining our flawless plans!"
Beside her, James wore a smug expression, a glimmer of mischief dancing in his eyes.
"Not this time, Jessie," the cyan haired man replied, his voice smooth and confident, "Those little twerps have inadvertently gathered them all in one place for us".
The male criminal leaned over the edge of the inflatable roof, peering down with a gleeful grin.
"Why, it's like they've set a buffet just for Team Rocket!" James cackled darkly.
Meowth, bouncing excitedly on his paws, chimed in with a laugh that echoed across the wind.
"Our super-vacuum will suck 'em up!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon's eyes sparkled with the thrill of the heist.
The trio could almost taste victory.
Jessie, fuelled by a bubbling sense of determination, clutched the remote control tightly. With a flick of her wrist, she pressed a button that sent electric pulses through the machine, its power rising like a tidal wave.
The air crackled with anticipation, and the vacuum roared at an even louder volume, a metallic beast ready to feast.
Down in the tranquil forest clearing, the idealistic little log cabin trembled where it stood, creaking against the tremendous force that was building outside. The trees rustled, and a chill coursed through the air as nature sensed the chaos that just kept continuing to unfold.
Team Rocket, caught up in their infectious excitement, began to dance with reckless abandon.
"Let's go, team!" they sang, voices harmonizing in chaotic glee, "To steal 'em is our dream! Let's go, Rocket! Put Pokémon in our pocket!"
Their hearts swelled with certainty, a heady mix of confidence and adrenaline. This time, they thought, nothing could stand in their way.
Little did they know that their grand design, filled with sparkles and ambition, was about to be challenged in ways they could never have imagined...
The cabin was a pressure cooker of fear, every nook and cranny overflowing with Pokemon of all shapes and sizes, their wide eyes reflecting the panic that was gripping them all.
The wind howled like a rabid beast outside, each gust an assault against the wooden walls, the structure groaning under the relentless strain as if it might buckle any second. Nolan sat perched precariously on a rickety stool, his face etched with deep concern, Meadow nestled securely in his lap, her presence a small comfort in the oppressive tension. Nearby Ash stood, rigid and tense, his eyes narrowed into slits, his focus unwavering. Misty and Brock hovered near the barricaded door, their expressions mirroring the worry that hung heavy in the air. Meanwhile Melanie, a picture of nervous agitation, paced back and forth, her voice trembling as she was the one that finally broke the almost unbearable silence.
"It's... it's getting worse" the pretty blue haired young woman whispered with a tremor, "I can feel the cabin shuddering. It won't be long before they break through, I just know it".
Nolan, however, refused to succumb to despair, his resolve hardening as he glanced at his friends, seeing their shared fear but also the spark of courage that resided within each of them.
"We can't just sit here and wait for them to smash their way in" the golden haired boy spoke with a quiet but firm conviction, his voice cutting through the oppressive atmosphere, "We have to do something, anything. We can't let this happen."
Melanie's reaction was immediate, her anxiety escalating, her voice rising in a frantic plea.
"But what can we do, Nolan?" the young woman wrung her hands together nervously, her worries practically palpable by this point, "Team Rocket, they're... they're dangerous! We can't possibly fight them head on. They're clearly more powerful than us, we're not ready for this!"
Her words were laced with the raw edge of fear, that was easy to hear from everyone in the room.
Ash, however, was clearly not on the same page, his eyes blazing with righteous fury as he responded to Melanie's despair, the words tumbling out of him in an angry rush.
"They are trying to steal sick and injured Pokémon! That's not okay!" the raven haired boy all-but roared in outrage, his russet orbs burning brightly, "How can we possibly stand by and let them do that? These Pokemon need our protection. We have to save them! We just have to!"
With a swift, decisive motion, he reached for a pokeball on his belt, unclipped it, and held it up for everyone to see. A small smirk played on his lips as he tossed it up in the air and caught it again, his expression laced with a mixture of confidence and determination.
"Well… when in doubt, go back to what you know. That's what I always say" the raven haired boy flashed them a cocky grin, "And I know Pokémon battles like the back of my hand. Winning them is my strongest skill!"
Misty couldn't help but roll her eyes at Ash's declaration, even in the dire situation, but there was a gentle warmth in her expression.
"Talk about being humble" the orange haired girl muttered sarcastically, but the teasing affection was clear in her voice as she quipped, "Someone thinks rather highly of themselves, don't they?"
Nolan, despite the severity of the situation, couldn't suppress a small eye roll at the playful banter. He swiftly moved to steer the conversation back to the dire situation at hand.
"Time and place, Misty!" the golden haired boy swiftly interjected, before he turned his attention back to his best friend and smiled tightly, "And anyway, Ash is actually right, to be fair. We need that kind of confidence right now... even if its coming from a cocky hothead".
Ash pouted, but said nothing as Nolan gestured helplessly around the cramped log cabin.
"We don't stand a chance trapped in here, we're sitting Psyduck!" the golden haired boy exclaimed, his voice filled with frustration as he pointed out the obvious, "At least outside we have room to strategize. We have to engage them. We don't have a choice."
Meadow, perhaps sensing her partner's shift in mood, jumped up into Nolan's arms, her small body quivering with energy, emitting a series of excited little cries, as if agreeing with him.
Nolan reciprocated, sharing a small, reassuring smile with his partner, a brief moment of connection in the chaos.
Melanie, her voice rising in panic, took a step towards him, clutching at his arm, her desperation evident as she pleaded with the youngsters to see reason.
"No, no! That's far too dangerous!" the pretty blue haired young woman implored frantically, 'Someone could get hurt, that's a chance that I don't want to take. This is too risky!"
Ash, however, turned to face her, his expression resolute, determination hardening his features.
"We know the risks, Melanie. But we can't let them get away with this" the raven haired boy countered her fears, "We have to protect these Pokemon. It's our responsibility as trainers".
The wild Pokemon inside the cabin, all huddled together, murmured and chattered nervously, their fear becoming increasingly palpable, their eyes wide with concern.
Ash paused, turning towards the barricaded door, his hand hovering over its surface. Before he reached it however, the raven haired boy hesitated, looking at Nolan, a touch of worry creeping in his expression.
"Nolan… are you sure about this? Your ankle was banged up pretty badly after the bridge collapsed. These conditions out there… it might be too much for you, we don't want you to overdo it" Ash's russet coloured eyes were wide with concern, before he sheepishly suggested, "Maybe you should stay here with the others".
The golden haired boy was not impressed.
Scoffing at the suggestion, Nolan stubbornly pushed himself up from the stool despite the pain he felt, his back straightening with renewed determination, his posture radiating his refusal to be held back.
"An injured ankle isn't going to hold me back, especially not when a bunch of innocent Pokemon are at risk" Nolan retorted in a voice that wasn't to be argued with, "I'm not going to sit here, doing nothing, while they steal them all. We could be the only hope these Pokemon have got!"
Unable to help himself, Ash grinned, the fire in Nolan's eyes mirroring his own.
"Alright, then. Let's do this!" the raven haired boy accepted his best friend's decision without any further argument, his own confidence renewed, "I knew I could count on you to be brave".
Nolan and Ash both started towards the door, their intentions clear. Before they could reach it however, the Wild Bulbasaur that lived with Melanie, the one that guarded the Hidden Village, stepped in front of them, its big red eyes fixed firmly on the barricaded door, its body rumbling with determination. Ash looked down at Bulbasaur, a sense of understanding and fondness washing over him.
"You want to help, too?" he questioned, "You know that this could be dangerous, right?"
The Bulbasaur nodded up at Ash eagerly, a small smile playing at its lips as it confirmed its intention, a far cry from the distrust it had shown him before. It was clear that Bulbasaur was warming up to him and his group of friends.
Ash grinned, pleased to see Bulbasaur's change of heart.
Nolan then turned his gaze towards the other humans, his expression serious, his voice ringing with authority as he spoke up.
"Misty, Brock, Melanie, you guys stay here" the golden haired boy said firmly, quickly continuing when all three of them showed signs of protesting, "You need to make sure the other Pokemon are safe, and that this cabin is secure. We're going to need backup if things go south. We're relying on you to keep them safe".
Misty looked at Ash and Nolan, a mixture of concern and apprehension in her gaze.
"Be careful, you guys, it's not safe out there" the Water Type Pokemon Specialist urged them, her voice laced with worry, "We don't know if Team Rocket has any other nasty surprises out there waiting for you".
Brock, however, offered an encouraging smile.
"We're counting on you! We know you can do this!" the aspiring Pokemon breeder cheered them on, having full confidence in his friends' ability to pull this off.
Melanie had tears of gratitude welling in her eyes.
"Good luck… and please, stay safe" the pretty blue haired young woman whispered, before her gaze snapped over to her unofficial Pokemon partner, "Bulbasaur, please keep an eye on everyone".
Bulbasaur nodded its large head.
"Bulba..." the little green creature responded, it's voice confident, "Bulbasaur!"
Ash, Nolan, and the wild Bulbasaur finally reached the door, their hands hovering over the makeshift barricade, ready to push it aside. Pikachu leapt up onto Ash's shoulder, whilst Meadow braced herself for what was to come from her spot in Nolan's arms. They all looked back one more time at their other friends, a sense of responsibility washing over them.
"Ready?" Ash turned to Nolan, his voice low and serious.
Nolan wearily nodded his head, his facial muscles tense.
"Let's go, we can do this" the golden haired boy replied, trying to sound more confident than he felt.
With a burst of adrenaline and a single decisive movement, Ash threw open the door, and they rushed outside, the wild Bulbasaur and Pikachu bounding with excitement, the sounds of their cries lost in the cacophony of the wind.
Almost immediately the whole group was almost swept right off their feet. This certainly felt a lot more intense than it had a few minutes ago. Team Rocket must have increased the power of their vacuum. Nolan couldn't help but gasp as he staggered on his feet, accidentally putting all of his weight on his bad ankle. The golden haired boy hissed through clenched teeth, but miraculously managed to remain standing upright. He quickly adjusted his weight before he allowed himself to get distracted.
They couldn't afford to make any mistakes here after all. Too much was riding on the outcome.
The door of the cabin quickly slammed shut behind them, the sounds of the wind and the roar of the giant vacuum intensifying, the wooden structure groaning in protest, as they left their friends in the safety of it's walls. The forest clearing was a chaotic whirlwind, a scene of utter disarray. Trees were bent double by the gale, leaves and debris swirling through the air in a dizzying dance, and the colossal, inflatable stadium loomed over the clearing, the giant vacuum hose firmly attached to its side.
Nolan immediately gasped in horror. The peace and tranquillity of the Hidden Village, this beautiful little paradise for the local wild Pokemon, had been completely obliterated. He immediately glared at the small figures of Team Rocket in the distance, the loathing he felt for them never stronger than it was than that moment.
Apparently that feeling was shared by the Pokemon as well.
Meadow left out a fierce snarl of rights anger and disgust from where she was cuddled up safely in Nolan's arms. Pikachu leapt down from Ash's shoulder and landed facing the giant inflatable stadium, a look of fierce determination on his face, his vivid yellow fur bristling with energy. The wild Bulbasaur stood beside the Electric Type Pokemon, ready to unleash an attack, standing proud and strong.
They were all prepared and ready to face down Team Rocket, and protect the sick and injured Pokemon that had made this beautiful place their home. And they would.
Any alternative simply wasn't an option.
The colossal, inflatable stadium loomed over the Hidden Village, a garish monument to Team Rocket's audacious scheme.
Jessie, James, and Meowth were still perched atop the inflated monstrosity, their figures silhouetted against the sky. The giant vacuum hose, a metallic serpent of destruction, snaked from the stadium's side, its nozzle aimed menacingly at the small log cabin, the only structure in this quaint haven. The air vibrated with the ominous hum of the vacuum, a sound that promised to steal away everything in its path. With malicious glee, the trio had unleashed their newest, most devastating plan, utterly convinced that nothing could stand in their way. Their laughter bounced off the trees, a chorus of arrogance and anticipated victory. They had the village cornered, and soon all the Pokemon would be at their mercy.
They were sure of it.
As Ash and Nolan emerged from the cabin, the silence of the forest was broken by Jessie's mocking tone, her voice cutting through the tension like a poisoned dart.
"Well, well, well! Look what the Persian dragged in," the magenta haired woman sneered, her eyes glinting with cruel amusement, "It's some of the twerps, out from their quaint little hiding place! Fancy meeting you here, in our soon-to-be-captured Pokemon paradise!"
The carefully curated serenity of the forest was shattered by their arrival, the air heavy with their presence. Her words were a declaration of war, a prelude to the chaos she and her team intended to unleash. Her gaze was fixed on the pair, a predatory stare that seemed to suggest they were already defeated. Their determination was nothing but a minor inconvenience in her self-assured eyes.
"Nolan! Ash!" James, equally smug, leaned forward, his eyes narrowed in malicious delight as he added his taunts to the mix, "How delightful to see you on the precipice of... utter defeat!"
Down below in the clearing, Ash and Nolan both glowered up at the trio of criminals. Their faces, usually bright with youthful energy, were now clouded with anger and a steely resolve.
The sheer, unadulterated confidence in James's voice underscored the gravity of the situation, a sense of impending doom hanging in the air. His words were a taunt, a deliberate effort to break down their morale before the real battle even began. He was thriving on their frustration, feeding off their determination, and revelling in the prospect of their imminent downfall. The stadium, a towering symbol of their arrogance, loomed above, casting a long, menacing shadow.
Meowth, never one to be left out, pushed himself between Jessie and James, his tongue lolling out in a display of undisguised glee.
"Yeah! Dis time's gonna be different, twerps!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon screeched, his voice sharp and grating. "We're gonna suck up every last Pokemon in dis forest, including dat pesky Pikachu of yours! Might as well just hand him over now and save yourselves da trouble!"
His words dripped with a smug certainty, a belief that their victory was all but assured. He saw the two trainers as Bug Types beneath his feet, easily crushed, their Pokemon a prize to be claimed. His anticipation was palpable, bordering on frenzied, and his glee only served to amplify the tension in the air.
The forest held its breath, its inhabitants beyond the Hidden Village trembling in fear.
Ash's face, usually open and friendly, was now clenched in fury, his jaw tight as he stood his ground.
"Never!" the raven haired boy exclaimed, his voice ringing with defiance, "Pikachu is my partner, and we're not letting you get anywhere near him! Or any of the other Pokemon here!"
His words were not just a response, but a vow, a promise to protect his friends and their home.
Ash's determination was unwavering, a stubborn refusal to surrender to the villains' superior power. His hands clenched into fists, his body tense, prepared to fight with every fibre of his being. The fire in his eyes burned brighter than ever before, a beacon of hope in the face of overwhelming odds.
Team Rocket's response was a wave of arrogant laughter, their jeering echoing through the trees, a declaration of their perceived invincibility.
"Oh, aren't you now?" Jessie, her voice dripping with condescension, cooed mockingly, "Well, aren't you brave!"
Her words were laced with sarcasm, a dismissal of their courage as if it were nothing more than a childish fantasy. She moved with a theatrical flair, relishing the moment.
"But bravery won't stop… this!" the magenta haired woman declared savagely.
With dramatic emphasis, she pressed a large, crimson button on the remote control she held, a symbol of the destructive power at her command.
The moment was broken by a loud whirring sound, sending a shiver down everyone's spines as the vacuum hose began to adjust and target the two trainers. The vacuum hose lurched downwards, its massive maw now pointed directly at Ash and Nolan, the air around them twisting and churning as the machine whirred to life. The wind intensified to an almost unbearable gale, whipping leaves, dust, and debris into a chaotic frenzy.
Nolan's eyes widened in alarm, the gravity of their situation crashing upon him.
"ASH, LOOK OUT!" he yelled out, his voice barely audible above the roar.
The force of the vacuum hit them with the force of a battering ram, uprooting the pair instantly. Nolan was thrown off his feet, his injured ankle twisting awkwardly upon impact, causing him to cry out in pain. Despite the agony, his instinct to protect Meadow overtook any pain, and he desperately shielded her with his body from the approaching chaos.
The sudden, violent gust of unnatural wind had sent Ash sprawling onto the forest floor as well. It was a disorienting and forceful attack that left the raven haired boy momentarily stunned. Quickly regaining his senses, Ash called out for his partner.
"Pikachu!" he yelled over the roar of the makeshift hurricane, his tone and expression both very concerned.
Struggling against the relentless pressure of the wind, the raven haired boy tried to stand, his eyes fixed on his beloved partner Pikachu, who stood a short distance away, clearly shaken by the abrupt onslaught.
But, in a horrifying moment that stopped Ash and Nolan's heart, both Pikachu and the wild Bulbasaur from the Hidden Village were ensnared in Team Rocket's nefarious vacuum, their small bodies lifted into the air, swirling uncontrollably, echoing cries of alarm cutting through the roaring wind.
"CHUUUU!" the small yellow creature let out a squeak of pure and unadulterated terror.
"BULBA! BULBASAUR!" the wild Bulbasaur cried out in panic.
It was scene of pure chaos and fear, unfolding before the helpless eyes of the two trainers.
High above, on the inflatable stadium roof, Team Rocket celebrated their apparent victory with boisterous cheers and unrestrained dancing.
"Yes! Yes! Yes! Pikachu is ours!" Jessie, her fist raised triumphantly, shouted gleefully, "Finally! After all this time, victory is within our grasp! And look! The other twerp's Bulbasaur's been thrown in for good measure!"
But James, squinting down at Nolan, frowned, realisation dawning on him that something wasn't quite right.
"Hold on a moment, Jessie" the cyan haired man held up his hand to attract the attention of his female counterpart and friend, "Isn't the Bulbasaur we usually see with the twerp Nolan?"
Meowth, quickly double-checking, came to the same conclusion.
"Wait a minute… yeah! Dat Bulbasaur ain't da twerp's Bulbasaur, Meadow" the Scratch Cat Pokemon confirmed, his tail swishing back and forth excitedly, "It must be one of dese Hidden Village fellas!"
Jessie, however, saw an opportunity, and delightedly cackled with glee.
"Even better!" the magenta haired woman beamed, rubbing her gloved hands together greedily, "Two Bulbasaur for the price of one! What a steal! Suck 'em up! Suck 'em all up!"
Down in the clearing, the situation became dire as Pikachu and the wild Bulbasaur were drawn closer to the vacuum's menacing nozzle, their helpless cries swallowed by the relentless wind.
"NOOOOOO!" Ash, his voice filled with terror and urgency, screamed in horror, "PIKACHU! BULBASAUR!"
But just as it seemed they would be sucked into the device, two thick, emerald green vines suddenly shot out from near Nolan, lashing out like living whips, a stunning display of power and precision.
These vines, striking with incredible speed, wrapped around both Pikachu and the Bulbasaur, holding them tightly and preventing them from being pulled any further, the two Pokemon gasping with a mixture of relief and amazement as they were suddenly held fast.
The heroic act was naturally the work of Meadow, who, clutched securely in Nolan's arms, had managed to execute a Vine Whip attack, a feat of skill and quick thinking that had turned the tide of the battle, proving yet again her loyalty and courage.
"Meadow!" Nolan, his face a mixture of relief and gratitude, exclaimed, "You did it!"
Ash, still crouched on the ground, next to Nolan's crumpled form, grinned, a wave of immense gratitude washing over him.
"Meadow, thank you!" the raven haired boy said to the small green creature clutched in his best friend's arms earnestly, his russet orbs shining with gratitude, "You saved Pikachu! And the other Bulbasaur too!"
Meadow dipped her head proudly, her vines beginning to reel Pikachu and the wild Bulbasaur back toward them, a testament to her strength and determination. As Meadow's vines brought them back down to the ground, Ash, his heart filled with relief, quickly scooped both Pikachu and the wild Bulbasaur into his arms, holding them close, a protective gesture of affection and gratitude.
Pikachu immediately nuzzled against him lovingly, the fear from the near-disaster fading into simple joy. The wild Bulbasaur, now comfortable enough and completely won over by the kindness he was receiving from these humans, mirrored Pikachu's behaviour, snuggling into Ash's arm, a sign their trust had been earned.
Ash's smile widened as he looked at the two Pokemon.
"You're okay now!" the raven haired boy assured the two small creatures in his arms kindly, his voice full of warmth as he petted them, "You're okay. Thanks to Meadow you're safe!"
Nolan, his own worries put to rest by Meadow's heroic act, cheered happily.
"Way to go, Meadow!" the golden haired boy praised his beloved Pokemon partner, "That was amazing!"
Meadow, clearly pleased by the praise, preened slightly, gently nudging Nolan's cheek affectionately as if to say 'It was nothing, I would do anything for you'.
"Bulbasaur!" she modestly replied.
Her tone was a mixture of pride and quiet affection, a display of her devotion to her partner not lost on anyone.
Up on the stadium roof, Team Rocket, their initial joy replaced by a renewed and more intense anger, grew furious as their plans were once again thwarted by the unexpected interference of Meadow, their cheers turning into frustrated growls and shouts of rage.
"Dat glorified salad is interfering again!" Meowth, spitting mad, hissed and raised his lethally-sharp claws menacingly, "She's ruining everything!"
Jessie, her eyes narrowing, smirked darkly, an ominous glint in her eyes.
"Not for long Meowth. Not for long at all," she jeered, her tone warning filled with menace, practically promising that this bleak situation was far from over.
Jessie then jabbed another button on their remote control, a move that hinted at another plan, another scheme designed to capture Pikachu and ruin the day for Ash, Nolan, and everyone else in the area. Her actions were like that of a predator circling its prey, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike. The button press was deliberate and full of purpose, an indication of the desperation and lack of any moral barrier that defined Team Rocket.
They would stop at nothing to steal what they wanted, despite the clear harm they would bring to others.
Jessie's smirk was a chilling sight as her finger danced over the remote, a malevolent glint in her eyes. The vacuum hose, previously a menacing drone, now emitted a forceful WHIR, recalibrating its deadly aim. This time, it locked onto Nolan and Meadow, the air around them swirling with a specific, targeted ferocity. A sharp gasp escaped Nolan's lips, his voice cracking with alarm as he pulled Meadow closer, desperately trying to shield her.
"Oh no! Meadow, look out!" the golden haired boy yelled, his concern a tangible thing.
Then, with a sudden, brutal force, the vacuum blast slammed directly into Nolan, sending him hurtling across the forest clearing like a discarded plaything. His body tumbled through the air, a sickening THUD echoing as he slammed into a thick tree stump. A cry of raw, agonising pain ripped from his throat.
"AAAAARGH!" Nolan let out a terrible scream that pierced the air.
Slumped against the unyielding wood, Nolan groaned in agony, his body screaming in protest. Yet, even in the midst of his torment, his grip on Meadow remained firm, a fierce determination to protect her even as he himself suffered.
Up on their ridiculous inflatable stadium, Team Rocket erupted into cruel laughter, their faces twisted in a mocking display of glee.
"There you go, twerp!" James, his voice dripping with smug satisfaction, cackled, "Consider that payback for every time you've helped send us blasting off!"
Unaware of their pathetic taunts, Meadow nuzzled her face against Nolan's, her soft whimper a clear sign of her worry and distress.
"Bulba… Bulbasaur…" she whispered, her voice laced with concern.
Despite the pain that radiated throughout his body, Nolan managed to offer her a strained smile, his expression a mixture of pain and reassurance.
"I'm… I'm okay, Meadow. Really… just… winded," he mumbled, his words weak and raspy.
But it was an obvious lie, written all over Nolan's tormented features; the severity of his injuries undeniable.
A wave of overwhelming fury surged through Meadow, watching her beloved partner hurt, her adorable features distorting into a mask of rage. Her glare shot upwards, towards the inflatable stadium and the taunting figures of Team Rocket, launching a series of angry, guttural cries in her own unique Bulbasaur language.
"BULBA! SAUR! BULBASAUR! BULBA!" she shouted venomously, her voice laced with an intensity that belied her normally gentle nature.
Up on their bizarre inflatable perch, Jessie raised a sceptical eyebrow, her gaze shifting to Meowth.
"What did the little weed just say, Meowth?" she asked, her tone laced with boredom.
Meowth, a smug grin plastered across his feline face, translated Meadow's furious words.
"She says… 'You're gonna pay for that!' Hah!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon cackled gleefully, his tail swinging back and forth in obvious amusement, "Like she can do anything!"
A fresh wave of laughter erupted from Jessie, James, and Meowth, each laugh more callous than the last.
"Oh really? And what are you going to do, little Bulbasaur?" Jessie leaned over the side of their stadium, taunting Meadow with a haughty tone, "Sprout some daisies at us? Tickle us with your vines?"
James, ever eager to join in the humiliation, added his own sarcastic comments, mocking Nolan's partner Pokemon.
"Maybe threaten us with… photosynthesis?" the cyan haired man sneered, his voice dripping with patronizing mockery, "Oh, we're shaking in our boots!"
Down below, in the heart of the forest clearing, Meadow, her small body vibrating with a white-hot rage, suddenly let out a fierce, defiant war cry.
"Bulba… SAUR!" she shrieked, her voice resonating with an unprecedented power.
And then... something truly astonishing happened...
The bulb on the Seed Pokemon's back suddenly erupted in an ethereal, bright glow. Nolan, stunned, gazed at Meadow with a mixture of disbelief and awe.
"Meadow…?" Nolan whispered her name breathlessly "What…?"
With a sudden, powerful surge of energy, Meadow unleashed a torrent of tiny, hard seeds from her bulb, the long-practiced attack, which she had been struggling with for a long time. It was Bullet Seed, an honest-to-God Bullet Seed, finally under her control, and unleashed with an unrestrained force.
Nolan's jaw dropped open in sheer, unfiltered disbelief as he watched the attack hurtle through the air.
The Bullet Seed attack hit the vacuum hose directly on, near the nozzle. There was a flash of light and a small, powerful explosion erupted around said nozzle. The vacuum's aggressive WHIR immediately sputtered and died down, its power extinguished, its loud vacuuming coming to an abrupt and satisfying end. The intense wind pressure that had threatened them immediately eased up, the chaotic gusts dissipating into nothing.
Soon enough, the forest clearing fell silent, the only sounds being Meadow's panting breaths and the faint groans from the injured Nolan. The air was still thick with tension, the moment's earlier events still fresh in everyone's minds.
Nolan, despite the pain, couldn't help but stare at Meadow, a new level of awe and respect shining in his eyes.
The tables had finally turned, the dynamic had shifted, and the forest clearing now held a tense anticipation. Team Rocket's laughter had been cut short by Meadow's remarkable feat, and a hint of uncertainty crept into their faces. Meadow meanwhile stood tall, her body quivering with adrenaline, the memory of Nolan's pain fuelling her anger.
It was clear that this was not over, not by a long shot.
The forest, once filled with the sound of Team Rocket's cruel laughter, now held a different kind of energy, a feeling of power and change, and the determination of a Bulbasaur ready to fight back for her trainer. The dust settled, the scene now a tableau of the aftermath. A broken vacuum, a battered Nolan, and a fiercely protective Meadow, her soft green body glowing in the aftermath of her first successful Bullet Seed.
This was not a victory for Team Rocket.
This was a clear message that Nolan and Meadow were not to be underestimated, that even the smallest and the most vulnerable can rise up with immense power when pushed. This was a game-changer, a moment that would forever be etched into their memories, the memory of Meadow's powerful fury ready to defend the one she loved most.
The immediate, oppressive pressure of the wind, which had moments before threatened to tear them from the very earth, abruptly vanished. The previously chaotic gusts subsided, leaving an unnerving and sudden stillness in their wake.
Nolan's attention wasn't on any of that though.
Instead, the golden haired boy's gaze was fixated downwards, his eyes wide with a mix of disbelief and awe, locked on Meadow. The small Grass Type Pokemon stood proudly, head held high and a smattering of seeds on her bulb.
Nolan could scarcely comprehend that she had actually unleashed her Bullet Seed, that she had finally mastered the technique which had eluded her for so long. Nolan found himself grinning, a wide, incredulous expression stretching from ear to ear. The sheer audacity of it, to master such a complex move in the midst of such danger, filled him with a strange, giddy joy.
"Meadow!" Nolan exclaimed, his voice cracking with excitement, "That was Bullet Seed! You did it! You actually did it!"
He pushed himself up, the pain in his ankle a distant sensation compared to the exhilaration flooding his being. He looked down at Meadow, his heart swelling with pride, his eyes shining with sincere admiration.
"I can't believe it!" the golden haired boy continued happily, struggling to articulate the depth of his feelings, "You finally mastered Bullet Seed! And at the perfect moment! You were incredible!"
Meadow, in response, offered a small, smug smirk, the corner of her mouth turned up ever so slightly. It was clear she was just as proud as Nolan was. He had never seen her so confident.
High above, atop the slightly ruffled inflatable stadium, Team Rocket were caught in a moment of stunned silence. For a heartbeat, not a single word was uttered, their faces a mix of shock and disbelief. But then, like a dam bursting, their quiet awe transformed into furious outrage as the reality of what had happened settled in.
Jessie, her face contorted with rage, glared down at Meadow, her hand clenching into a fist.
"Hey!" the magenta haired woman shrieked, her voice sharper than any blade, "Watch it, you little… potted plant! You damaged our equipment!"
James, equally indignant, scowled down with matching anger.
"That's not fair!" he exclaimed, puffing out his chest angrily, "You can't just… attack our inflatable stadium!"
The often nonchalant Meowth looked especially annoyed.
"Yeah!" the Scratch Cat Pokemon grumbled, his usually nastily voice rough with irritation, "Dat's property damage! You gonna pay for dat, salad-breath?!"
Nolan, standing tall, despite the throbbing in his ankle, scoffed at their audacity. The nerve they had, complaining about property damage in this situation. It was almost comical.
"Property damage?" the golden haired boy repeated incredulously, his tone a mix of disbelief and mockery, "That's what you get for trying to steal sick and injured Pokemon! This is a sanctuary for them! You should be ashamed of yourselves!"
Meadow, in agreement, nodded her head vigorously, her leafy bulb pointed in their direction. Her expression was fierce, her normally gentle eyes flashing with a fiery resolve that surprised even Nolan.
"Bulba!" she declared in affirmation, "Bulbasaur!"
The two of them stood united in defiance, a small Pokemon and her trainer standing up to those who sought to harm the vulnerable.
Looking down at Meadow, Nolan felt a warm wave of affection wash over him.
"Of course, your Bullet Seed would manifest now..." the golden haired boy murmured thoughtfully, marvelling at the timing of her incredible breakthrough, "It would come when it was needed most, when it was required to defend innocent Pokemon".
The boy smiled warmly at his beloved partner Pokemon, his heart full of gratitude for her bravery.
"You truly are one of a kind," he said softly, his words a personal testament to her.
Meadow's face lit up at the praise. Beaming happily, she responded with enthusiasm.
"Saur!" Meadow exclaimed cheerfully.
The little green creature happily nuzzled into the boy's arms, her small form snuggling against him. The feeling of her soft body against his brought him a small measure of calm, despite his throbbing pain and the ongoing danger.
Nolan's thoughts quickly shifted back to the dire situation they were in. Despite the pain in his ankle, and Meadow's comforting presence, a new sense of determination surged through him. He quickly turned to Ash, his eyes bright with a newfound strategic spark.
"Ash!" the golden haired boy urgently exclaimed, "This is our chance! They're momentarily stunned!"
The look in his eyes communicated the importance of acting quickly, before Team Rocket recovered. This opportunity was too good to pass up, the chance to reclaim the sanctuary of the Hidden Village, before the villains could regroup and cause more chaos.
Ash, instantly recognizing the opportunity, his eyes blazing with renewed determination, nodded decisively.
"Right!" the raven haired boy exclaimed with conviction, "Let's do it! Pidgeotto, I choose you!"
With swift motions, Ash threw the pokeball he was still clutching up into the air. The red and white burst open, releasing Pidgeotto in a flash of crimson light. The Flying Type Pokemon soared into the air, her wings spreading wide as she circled above them, assessing the situation. She let out a proud cry, a powerful sound of readiness.
"GEOTTO!"
Ash grinned up at his loyal Pokemon, his faith in her abilities unwavering.
"Alright Pidgeotto," he commanded, his voice ringing with energy, "Use Whirlwind! Full power!"
"PIDGEOTTO!"
Pidgeotto immediately responded to his request, her powerful wings beginning to flap with incredible speed and force.
A swirling vortex of wind started to appear beneath her, rapidly growing in size and intensity. The whirlwind, a swirling mass of power, began to tear across the clearing towards the inflatable stadium, a terrifying sight of raw elemental energy directed at their opponents.
Team Rocket, having recovered from their initial shock, now stared in alarm as the massive whirlwind came bearing down upon them. Their triumphant cackling from only moments before faded into nervous whimpers as their bravado was replaced with the growing fear that their plans were about to fall apart.
"Uh oh…" Jessie uttered, her voice trembling with apprehension.
James, his eyes wide with panic, nervously watched the vortex sweeping towards them.
"This doesn't look good…" he stammered, his usual charm replaced with outright fear.
Even Meowth, the normally confident strategist, trembled with terror.
"I think we might be… in trouble… again!" Meowth whimpered, shaking like a leaf.
WHAM!
The whirlwind slammed into the inflatable stadium with the full force of Pidgeotto's power, and absolute chaos erupted. Team Rocket, caught completely off-guard, clung desperately to the fabric as the stadium rocked violently. The inflatable structure began to buckle and deflate, the once proud structure cowering under the sheer force of the wind. The stadium groaned and deflated further, collapsing inwards on itself like a dying creature, a metallic groan echoing through the clearing as the inflatable frame gave way.
Jessie, James, and Meowth, utterly helpless to resist its pull, were all swept up into the vortex like helpless ragdolls, their desperate screams carried away on the wind.
"WHAT ARE WE GONNA DO NOW?!" Meowth's voice wailed upon the cacophony.
Even whilst spinning around inside a tornado, Jessie summoned up the energy to respond sarcastically.
"CHALLENGE THEM TO WIND SURFING?!" the magenta haired woman quipped.
James just whimpered as he spiralled around inside the whirlwind as well.
Down on the ground, Nolan wore a smug and mischievous grin as he looked up at the vortex. It was obvious that the golden haired boy was revelling in Team Rocket's misfortune. Turn about was only fair play after all. His smile widening, he glance back down at his beloved Pokemon companion, an eyebrow arched.
"You want the honour?" he asked her playfully.
"Bulba!" Meadow nodded cheerfully.
The bulb on the little green creature's back began to glow with a ethereal, bright light again. With another strong burst of energy, Meadow once again called on her newly learned attack, and unleashed another torrent of tiny, hard seeds from her bulb. It almost felt like second-nature now, and Meadow could scarcely believe that she hadn't been doing this all along. It suddenly felt so easy. It was an incredibly refreshing feeling for the Seed Pokemon.
"SAUR!" she roared as she let loose her Bullet Seed upon their enemies without so much as a hint of mercy.
BBBBBBOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMM!
The volley of explosive earthy projectiles were absorbed into the vortex, and the resulting impact was catastrophic. A blinding flash of light followed by a deafening roar that echoed across the forest clearing. The air crackled with raw energy, the ground trembled beneath the assault, and the sky itself seemed to recoil from the sheer magnitude of the collision, as if nature itself was holding its breath in the face of such unbridled power. Debris flew in all directions, a chaotic dance of leaves, dust, and shattered seeds, painting a picture of raw, untamed force that had momentarily transformed the serene landscape.
Inside the eye of this tumultuous storm, amidst the swirling currents of air and scattered projectiles; Jessie, James, and Meowth, found themselves caught in the maelstrom. Their characteristic shrieks pierced through the roar of the battle as they were violently spun around, their bodies tossed like ragdolls within the turbulent vortex. The world was a blur of greens, browns, and blues as they tumbled head over heels, the ground below and the sky above becoming indistinguishable as direction became a useless concept and nausea began to gnaw at their insides. Their ill-fated attempt to capture Pokemon had once again backfired, leading them not to victory, but to a dizzying, disorienting ride through the air, destined to be deposited at some unknown and probably humiliating location as the power of the collision sent them hurtling across the heavens, a stark reminder of their continued failures.
"LOOKS LIKE TEAM ROCKET'S BLASTING OFF AGAIN!" the criminal trio screamed as a collective.
Then they were gone.
Nothing more than a twinkle on the horizon.
Nolan, Ash, Meadow, Pikachu and Bulbasaur all heaved a tremendous sigh of relief upon witnessing the villains abrupt departure. They had done it. They had protected the wild Pokemon that lived here, and had dealt with Team Rocket.
The Hidden Village was safe once more.
Nolan, his adrenaline still coursing from the recent battle, carefully navigated the forest clearing, each step a testament to his lingering injury. A small sense of relief washed over him as he noticed the sharp throbbing in his ankle had subsided, replaced by a dull ache that he could easily ignore. He was certain he would be able to keep up with his companions when their journey resumed, though he suspected they would want to rest a bit longer here. With a renewed sense of optimism, he approached Melanie's quaint log cabin, the refuge of his friends and the Hidden Village's wild Pokemon, his hand rising to knock on the wooden door. Behind him, Ash praised Pidgeotto on a job well done, before calling her back into her pokeball.
"Brock! Misty! Melanie! It's safe to come out now, you guys!" the golden haired boy called out cheerfully as he rapped his knuckles on the wooden surface, "Me and Ash have seen off Team Rocket!"
A moment of tense silence followed, but then the door slowly creaked open, revealing the hesitant faces of Brock, Misty, and Melanie.
Their wary expressions quickly transformed into relief as they recognized Nolan and saw that he appeared reasonably unharmed. All three stepped outside, their bodies radiating gratitude, their smiles as bright as the sun filtering through the leaves of the trees surrounding the cabin, relieved that the threat to the Hidden Village had been averted. Melanie's gaze, however, lingered on Nolan, Ash, Pikachu, Meadow and the wild Bulbasaur, a worried frown creasing her brow.
"Is everyone feeling okay?" the pretty blue haired young woman asked with genuine concern.
Nolan nodded with a reassuring smile. At his side, Melanie's heartfelt inquiry was met by a mischievous grin from Ash.
"I just had the wind knocked out of me" the raven haired boy joked playfully.
Nolan groaned at the poorly timed joke, frowning with a shake of his head.
"That was bad, Ash" Nolan gave his best friend a look that could only be determined as a cringe of revulsion, "Really, really bad."
Ash, rubbing the back of his neck apologetically, chuckled.
"Sorry Nolan. I guess that was in bad taste, considering you really did get winded during this whole fiasco" the raven haired boy replied softly.
Misty, Brock, and Melanie instantly looked concerned again.
"Why?" Misty's voice was laced with worry as she questioned, "What happened?"
Sighing, Nolan braced himself for the inevitable flurry of concern.
"Nothing too serious," the golden haired boy said with an attempt at casualness, "Team Rocket's vacuum just knocked me over and I crashed into the tree stump. I'm fine now, I promise."
Misty, Brock, and Melanie's faces relaxed, their expressions turning from anxiety to relief upon hearing his reassuring words, Melanie speaking her thoughts aloud with a light sigh.
"Well, I'm certainly glad to hear it" the pretty blue haired young woman told the young Pokemon trainer sincerely, "I don't know what I would have done if one of you had been seriously hurt protecting us from those criminals. I honestly can't thank you all enough for defending the Hidden Village!"
At Melanie's side, the wild Bulbasaur, that beloved friend of hers, looked up at Nolan, Ash, Misty, and Brock, its eyes shining with an abundance of appreciation and joy.
"Bulba! Bulbasaur!" the Seed Pokemon gently voiced its gratitude.
Nolan smiled warmly at the gesture of gratitude, before turning his attention back to Misty, Brock and Melanie.
"Are all of the Pokemon okay?" the golden haired boy asked quickly, his own concern evident from both his torn and his expression.
Brock chuckled, as he gestured towards the cabin door.
"See for yourself" the aspiring Pokemon breeder smiled.
Nolan turned to follow the direction of Brock's gesture, his heart swelling with emotion as all of the Pokemon residing in the village came flooding out, the fear and tension of the previous moments replaced by their joy.
Melanie's eyes scanned the crowd of Pokemon, her gaze landing on the struggling Magikarp. She quickly scooped the Fish Pokemon up into her arms and jogged over to the pond, placing it gently back into the water where it could freely swim. The other wild Pokemon happily gathered around the pretty blue haired young woman, grateful for her care and devotion, their fear now a distant memory. The wild Bulbasaur came over and looked up at her, a silent exchange of emotions passing between them.
And then somehow... she just knew...
Melanie immediately understood that it was time for Bulbasaur to move on, not knowing whether this was a temporary goodbye or a permanent one. The pretty blue haired young woman swallowed hard, plastering a smile on her face, her heart aching at the thought of parting with her friend, but knowing it was the right decision. She turned her attention back to Ash, whose presence radiated a sense of humility. Her genuine gratitude evident in her tone, Melanie before to speak softly to him.
"I want to thank you properly Ash, for really stepping up in our hour of need" the pretty blue haired young woman began to make her proposal slowly, carefully and subtly, "Nolan may have helped, but it was your bravery and determination to go back out into danger that was the catalyst for defeating Team Rocket. I think you deserve to be rewarded for that."
Ash blushed slightly, his russet eyes looking down at the ground, an unusual show of modesty on full display. He quickly waved off the praise, his cheeks turning a delicate shade of pink.
"There's really no need for that" the raven haired boy stated, his voice quiet but genuine, "I was just trying to do the right thing".
Melanie's smile widened, the warmth of her gratitude evident as she regarded Ash with affection and admiration. Her gratefulness for his bravery had no bounds. Ash had proven himself to be a true hero, despite his young age and his overconfident nature.
Yes.
Melanie was positive now that he would be ideal for what she was about to suggest next. So, with a deep breath, she continued.
"Ash, don't you agree that Bulbasaur would be an excellent addition to your team?" the pretty blue haired young woman queried, her question hanging in the air like a playful melody.
Ash, completely oblivious to the deeper currents beneath her words, his mind still a simple canvas of potential, beamed up at her with genuine enthusiasm.
"Oh, yeah! Would he ever!" he exclaimed, his reply a cheerful affirmation that echoed the surface of her statement but failed to grasp the undercurrent of meaning.
Melanie's smile softened, her lips curving into an almost wistful expression, a mixture of fondness and a deep knowing of what she was about to do, a knowledge of the inevitable separation that was the key to their friend, the wild Bulbasaur's development.
A deep breath filled Melanie's lungs, a quiet attempt to steady the flutter of nerves that danced within her chest. It was a confession she would make to Ash that was for the benefit of her beloved friend, a decision born of deep understanding and love.
"I think Bulbasaur should go with you," she stated, the words released as if a dam had broken, and the truth she had been carrying was now in the open.
Ash's jaw dropped, his expression one of pure, unadulterated shock, a reaction mirrored by his companions, Nolan, Misty, and Brock, all of them momentarily stunned into a bewildered silence.
"Huh?!" Ash managed, his voice a soft exhale of disbelief.
Melanie took another breath, each one a conscious effort to control the swirl of emotions within her, as she thought of what she was about to begin explaining to the young trainer, about how it was the best choice for her friend.
With a tenderness that spoke volumes, Melanie gathered the wild Bulbasaur into her arms, her embrace a protective haven. She hugged him tightly, her affection a tangible force, before turning back to Ash, her smile now a beacon of quiet determination.
"Bulbasaur has stayed here to protect the weaker Pokemon," she explained, her voice soft but firm, "But this place is too small, so the bulb on its back can't grow properly. It needs to go out into the world now, and I know you'll take good care of it. Please do me this favour. Please take Bulbasaur with you on your journey. He'll be a good companion".
The words were uttered with heart in her plea to Ash, the words laced with the confidence that he was the only one she'd trust for the noble task ahead for her beloved friend. The four young trainers were taken aback by the earnest request.
Nolan in particular felt a surge of surprise and shock. He was the only one among them who had heard the tale of how Melanie had met Bulbasaur. The depth of their relationship, their bond of friendship, was a sacred story shared only between him and Melanie. He was in awe of her willingness to part with her friend simply because she knew in her heart that it was the best thing for Bulbasaur. His already high respect for her grew even more, and he knew he would always hold her in high regard. He felt a tinge of sadness for her knowing just how difficult this decision must have been for her to make, but also knew that she was a very strong person, and she would get through this painful moment.
Misty, recovering from the shock, surfaced first. Her brow furrowed with concern as she voiced the question that had bubbled up from her very own worries.
"But what will happen to the village without Bulbasaur?" the Water Type Pokemon Specialist asked, her voice tinged with genuine anxiety.
Brock, nodding in agreement with Misty's concerns, looked equally worried, his gaze darting around the Hidden Village in thought.
"Yeah, who's going to protect you?" he added, his voice echoing the sentiment of Misty.
Nolan, his eyes reflecting the same worries about the wild Pokemon, glanced at Melanie.
"Are you sure you guys will be okay without having Bulbasaur around to keep an eye on you all?" the golden haired boy asked with a hint of nervousness.
The three young Pokemon trainers and their worries about Melanie and the other Pokemon were well-intentioned. Melanie smiled, her heart touched by their concern for the welfare of the Hidden Village; she knew she had made some good friends today, and she felt comforted by their questions.
"It's true that Bulbasaur has done a great job, maybe too great a job," the pretty blue haired young woman replied softly, her voice a gentle echo of their concerns as she took a deep breath, her mind preparing for the explanation that was to follow what she had said, "You see, these Pokémon shouldn't remain in this village forever and ever," she began to explain, her eyes sweeping across the faces of the young trainers, "After they recover, the Pokemon are supposed to leave. But it's too safe here, so none of them wants to go away. They don't want to return to the outside world".
A chorus of agreement came from the wild Pokemon around them, their soft murmurs and gentle head nods creating an atmosphere of solidarity. The Poliwag that Misty had befriended earlier that day bobbed its whole body with enthusiasm, as if echoing the sentiments of the others.
"Poli... Poliwag" the Tadpole Pokemon whispered, its voice rising in a melodious affirmation that was not lost on the kind hearts of the young trainers.
Melanie smiled down sadly at them all for a moment, her heart aching at the thought of all of them being stuck in the safe enclosure for the rest of their lives. She then turned her attention to the four young trainers once more, her eyes filled with the hope that they could understand what was about to be said, as she continued with her explanation.
"But I think it's important that all of them return to the wild. That's where Pokemon belong" Melanie declared, her voice carrying the conviction of her life's work. "And hopefully, someday, they'll find good trainers like the four of you".
Melanie's smile brightened slightly as she thought of her life's mission and how fulfilling she found it. Her gaze, alight with a warm sincerity, held the promise of a brighter future for all of the wild Pokemon she had the privilege of helping at the Hidden Village.
"Of course, taking care of sick Pokémon will always be my mission, but I know my job isn't finished until they return where they came from, so it's the day a Pokémon leaves that's most rewarding to me," she added, her smile radiant as she spoke of the joy she derived from seeing her patients recover and return to the world.
Brock, his brow furrowed with a mixture of understanding and concern, looked at Melanie with a troubled expression.
As a Pokemon breeder himself, Brock understood her mindset; he knew the bittersweet joy of watching a Pokemon grow and leave, of knowing one has done one's job well, but he also knew how hard it was to say goodbye to them when one had cared for them so deeply.
"Melanie, I..." he began, but ended up trailing off and gesturing hopelessly.
Melanie, as if reading his unspoken words, nodded, acknowledging his unspoken concern with a gentle understanding. She then turned back to Ash, her smile a beacon of warmth and hope. Melanie spoke to Ash with the gentlest tone in her voice, her words carrying the weight of her trust and the hope for the future.
"So, you see, it's time for Bulbasaur to leave here," the pretty blue haired young woman said, her eyes meeting Ash's, "Please take it with you, Ash. It won't be a burden, I promise".
Ash was still in shock, and tried with all his might to understand the sheer magnitude of the trust she was making by placing him this request.
"Bulbasaur still has a lot of growing to do. I want it to be in a place where I'm sure it can grow strong and happy. I'm sure that place is with you, Ash," she finished, her voice carrying the weight of her conviction.
Ash, humbled by her kind words, looked at the Bulbasaur that was still nestled safely in her arms, and knew he would try his hardest to honour her wishes for Bulbasaur.
"Well, if you really want me to..." Ash, still a little stunned, managed a hesitant reply.
The wild Bulbasaur, a verdant sprite of a creature, grinned up at Melanie, a spark of playful challenge in its eyes.
"Bulbasaur" the Seed Pokemon chirped out cheerfully.
Melanie, with a fond roll of her eyes and a giggle, seemed to understand the creature perfectly, a language Ash, with his bond limited to Pikachu, could only observe with curiosity.
"What did it say?" the raven haired boy inquired, perplexed by the gentle communication.
Melanie, her attention shifting from the smirking Bulbasaur to Ash, shook her head with amusement.
"Bulbasaur will join your team on one condition, Ash," the pretty blue haired young woman announced, her voice tinged with a hint of warning, "It wants to battle you in a Pokemon match. Right, Bulbasaur?"
The little green Pokemon, a picture of eager anticipation, eagerly nodded, its smirk widening as it responded.
"Bulbasaur" he grinned confidently.
Ash, ever the enthusiastic Pokemon trainer, instantly perked up at the prospect of a battle, his eyes sparkling with a familiar excited gleam.
"Ha! If you want a match, you'll get it!" he proclaimed, his competitive spirit fired up.
From his spot nearby, Nolan, a grin lighting up his handsome face, chuckled good-naturedly.
"Looks like you're going to get that rematch you wanted after all, Ash," the golden haired boy teased, offering words of encouragement, "Give it your all, and good luck."
Ash, beaming at his best friend, responded with a confident nod.
"Thanks, Nolan" he said gratefully.
The stage was set, the anticipation building as Ash and Bulbasaur prepared to engage in their match. The forested clearing of the Hidden Village became their battleground, with Nolan, Meadow, Misty, Brock, Melanie, and the village's wild Pokemon all gathering to watch the spectacle unfold. Poliwag, the little Tadpole Pokemon that Misty had befriended, nudged her ankle affectionately, garnering a tender smile and a warm response from the human in question.
"Hey Poliwag! You wanna watch Ash and Bulbasaur battle each other with me?" asked the kind-hearted girl.
Poliwag's enthusiastic hops and joyful "Poliwag! Wag!" were answer enough.
With a gentle scoop up into Misty's arms, they, along with everyone else, turned their focus to the upcoming battle.
Ash thought carefully for a moment, a serious expression gracing his face before he turned to his reliable partner.
"Alright, Pikachu! I choose you!" the raven haired boy declared, filled with a renewed determination.
Pikachu, his own small body buzzing with excitement, leaped forward, his bright yellow fur gleaming in the sunlight as he faced Bulbasaur on the other side of the clearing.
"Pika!" he called, his small voice echoing through the clearing.
Bulbasaur, unperturbed by the appearance of the Electric Type Pokemon, stood his ground, a confident smirk plastered across his face as he declared his own challenge with a firm battle cry.
"Bulbasaur!" the Seed Pokemon returned.
The battle would soon be underway, an electric energy crackling between the two Pokemon as everyone watched the unfolding clash with bated breath. The Hidden Village had become a temporary coliseum, and all eyes were on Ash and the wild Bulbasaur, ready to see who would emerge victorious...
And that's another chapter finished : )
YES! Finally, after so long, I've FINALLY been able to give Meadow her Bullet Seed attach! All the way back in the first episode, when Nolan's father gave him the TM for Bullet Seed, I'd planned for Meadow to master it at this exact moment! After all, I couldn't let an entire episode revolving around a Bulbasaur pass without giving Meadow a little special something! That's also part of the result why I didn't that he wouldn't be getting one of his Pokemon from the Hidden Village, since that would be overkill. So yes, Meadow will now have Bullet Seed in her arsenal moving forwards : )
Aside from that though, I think we should move on to this week's voting topic. Now this one is familiar ground, but with a little twist added. Now that I have started to defeat the Team Rocket Admins in earnest, the Pokewalker is finally, finally coming into play! I've been super excited about this aspect of the Nuzlocke for literally months now, ever since I started the Johto Nuzlocke in fact. As I'm sure anyone who bought the Heart Gold/Soul Silver games when they first came out will know, the Pokewalker comes with a fun mini-game where you get to capture a variety of different Pokemon that you can then transfer into the main game, allowing you earlier access to some that are held back until later in regular game-play. So how this works in terms of my Nuzlocke is that each time I defeat a Team Rocket admin, I get to randomly pick one of the courses available out of the eight standard ones. Each of those courses is split up in Groups A, B, and C, all three of which offer two available Pokemon for me to capture in the Pokewalker. I will be catching a Pokemon of each group for each course. I'll then pair those courses up, and you guys will get to vote between the options as normal, only there'll be six instead of the standard five option for these four special Pokewalker Encounter Votes. However, there's another factor that comes into play with this. Some of the groups in the different courses do not offer me any potential new Pokemon. For example, in the Town Outskirts course, Group A only offers Abra and Voltorb, both of which are Pokemon Nolan already has. So when this situation arises (which will be several times), I have devised a hopefully creative solution. Substitutions. To give you guys the maximum amount of Pokemon to vote between, I will randomly select one of the Pokemon I caught in the normal game that did not win the vote it was in and was rejected by you guys. I think this is a fun way to give some of those Pokemon a second chance to possibly get voted onto the team : ) So, for my defeat of Proton at the Slowpoke Well, I shall be unlocking the Rugged Road Pokewalker Course. Paired to this, for my defeat of Petrel at the Rocket Hideout, the Pokewalker Course to be unlocked will be the aforementioned Town Outskirts Course. Here are the options you guys get to vote between : )
Pokemon Options: -
Rugged Road Course Group A: - Magby - Male - Serious Nature - Flame Body Ability
Rugged Road Course Group B: - Machop - Female - Lax Nature - No Guard Ability
Rugged Road Course Group C: - Hoothoot - Female - Rash Nature - Keen Eye Ability
Town Outskirts Course Group A (Substitution): - Slowpoke - Male - Jolly Nature - Own Tempo Ability
Town Outskirts Course Group B: - Grimer - Male - Careful Nature - Sticky Hold Ability
Town Outskirts Course Group C: - Furret - Male - Careful Nature - Keen Eye Ability
Some really interesting choices in this one : ) There's definitely two I'd favour over the others, but I actually think the majority of these could be interesting to add to Nolan's Johto Team. I already have a few ideas in mind for possible character traits for some of them, but as always, it isn't up to me. It's up to you guys, so please go leave your vote in a review and help pick the first Pokewalker Pokemon Encounter : )
And I think that's just about everything from me for this time. Thank you so much for reading this chapter and my story in general. I hope you are enjoying it all so far, and please consider leaving a review because I'd love to hear your comments and feedback : )
Until the next time, keep on reading : )
