Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Ashley Ketchum’s alarm clock blared like a wild Jigglypuff concert gone wrong. She groaned and slapped at it blindly, missing twice before finally smacking it silent with a loud clunk. The sunlight was merciless, creeping in through the gap in her curtains and landing right across her face. "Ugh, Sun! Take a hint," she mumbled, yanking her blanket over her head. For a split second, she entertained the brilliant idea of using Dig to escape deeper under the covers. Her toes wiggled as if prepping for action, but her brain kicked in a moment later.

Today wasn’t just any day—it was the day.

Her eyes shot open like a Staryu’s gem, and she bolted upright in bed, her blanket flying off her like a Togekiss taking off. “Today’s my first day as a trainer!” she squealed, practically vibrating with excitement. She threw her legs over the side of her bed and stood up so fast she almost tripped on her Pikachu-patterned pajama pants.

Ashley spun around her room, arms wide as if she could hug the entire day. The room was a chaotic mix of childhood memories and budding trainer aspirations. A stack of Pokémon magazines was precariously leaning near the bookshelf, a half-finished Poké Ball puzzle sat abandoned on her desk, and a hand-drawn poster of the Indigo League hung above her bed. On her dresser, her stuffed Jigglypuff stared at her with judgmental button eyes, clearly unimpressed by her morning theatrics.

“Sorry, Puff,” she said with a cheeky grin, giving it a quick pat as she sprinted to the bathroom.

Ashley tossed her pajamas onto the bathroom floor with the precision of someone who absolutely planned to clean up later—probably, maybe. She turned on the shower, letting the water heat up, and grabbed her toothbrush. Foam bubbled as she brushed, leaning against the sink and glancing at her reflection in the slightly fogging mirror. The excitement buzzing under her skin was almost enough to distract her from the fact that it was stupidly early. Almost.

She rinsed out her mouth, rubbed the sleep out of her eyes, and then stepped into the shower. The first blast of water hit her like a Water Gun attack, startling her. “Whoa! Cold! Cold!” she yelped, hopping on the spot until the warmth kicked in. As the steam filled the small bathroom, she let out a long, satisfied sigh. The hot water ran down her face and arms, washing away the last hints of grogginess.

“This is worth it,” she mumbled to herself, tilting her head back under the spray. Waking up this early wasn’t her usual vibe—she preferred to roll out of bed closer to brunch than sunrise—but today was special. Today, she’d be the first one at Professor Oak’s lab. No way was she letting Gary Oak, of all people, beat her there.

Her fingers absently traced the tiles on the shower wall, following the faint grooves and patterns like they might somehow ground her racing thoughts. The water cascaded down her back, warm and steady, but her mind was anything but calm. She’d been waiting for this moment forever—or at least it felt that way. Back when she was a kid, turning 10 had seemed like the magical finish line, the moment when her whole life would finally begin. Ten was the age when trainers got their first Pokémon, hit the road, and became legends in the making. It was supposed to be her golden age, her ticket to adventure.

But then, just as that dream was within reach, it had all been snatched away. That law. She could still hear the monotone voice of the news anchor breaking the story, his expression painfully neutral, as if he didn’t realize—or didn’t care—that he was crushing the dreams of kids everywhere.

“No trainers under 18,” she muttered now, her voice dripping with sarcasm as she mimicked his dry tone. Her hand tightened into a fist against the tile, and she gave a frustrated sigh. She’d been furious back then, a bubbling volcano of anger and disappointment. For weeks, she’d stormed around the house, demanding answers from her parents, from the universe, from anyone who’d listen.

She tilted her head back, letting the water soak through her hair before grabbing the shampoo and squeezing a dollop into her palm. Her movements were quick, almost aggressive, as she scrubbed it into her scalp. Back then, she’d pleaded with her parents to make an exception for her. She’d argued with every ounce of passion her ten-year-old self could muster, insisting she was ready, that she could handle it.

“I need to go!” she remembered shouting one night at dinner, her voice cracking with frustration. “You don’t get it—this is my chance!”

Her parents’ calm, steady replies had only made her angrier. They’d explained the reasoning behind the law, talked about dropout rates and how young trainers often got in over their heads. They’d told her stories about kids who had gone out too young, unprepared for the dangers that lurked in forests, caves, and even the seemingly peaceful open roads. Kids who didn’t come home.

She’d hated every word of it. To her, it had all felt like a giant conspiracy, an unfair punishment for something she hadn’t even done. The adults were overreacting. She wouldn’t have been one of those kids. She’d have been smart, careful, unstoppable. That’s what she told herself.

Ashley scrubbed harder, her fingers working through the tangles in her hair with a little too much force. The suds foamed up around her hands, and she closed her eyes, trying to push the memory away.

Even after the initial fury had faded, the disappointment lingered, like a heavy weight pressing on her chest. She remembered watching Gary Oak waltz around town with his smug grin, bragging about how he’d totally have been a champion already if it weren’t for “that stupid law.” Of course, he’d framed it like he was the biggest victim, and Ashley had wanted to punch him square in his overconfident face. Not because he was wrong, but because she felt the same way—and she hated that he was better at pretending he didn’t care.

The water rinsed the shampoo from her hair, and she exhaled hard, the sound echoing slightly in the steamy bathroom. Back then, she’d thought the whole thing was just a cruel joke, a way to keep kids like her from achieving their dreams. But now? Now, she could kind of see where they were coming from. Kind of.

She reached for the conditioner, her fingers moving slower now, more deliberate. It had taken years, but she’d come to understand that being a trainer wasn’t just about the battles and the badges. It was about responsibility, strategy, and knowing when to push forward and when to hold back. The world wasn’t as simple as she’d thought at ten. There were dangers out there—real ones—and she wasn’t invincible.

But now, at 18, she was ready. Stronger, smarter, tougher. She’d learned to take care of herself, to think on her feet, and to face challenges head-on. And yeah, graduating high school hadn’t exactly been a walk in the park either, but she’d done it.

She smirked, rinsing the last of the soap from her hair as she thought about Gary again. He might’ve been born with an ego the size of a Snorlax, but at least she had one thing over him now: maturity. Not that she’d ever say that to his face—his head was already big enough. But still, it felt good to know she’d earned this moment.

“Take that, Gary Oak,” she muttered under her breath, flicking the water off her hands with a sense of finality.

She reached out and twisted the shower knob with a decisive click, the last few drops of water splashing onto the tiles with faint echoes. The steady stream of warmth that had cocooned her faded, replaced by the cool air pressing against her skin. Wrapping herself in a fluffy towel, Ashley stood for a moment, letting the heat from her shower linger before reality reeled her back in. The air was thick with steam, swirling lazily around the bathroom like a soft fog. She swiped her hand across the fogged-up mirror, revealing her reflection—a face flushed from the hot water, damp strands of black hair clinging to her cheeks.

“Looking good, future champion,” she muttered, her voice just above a whisper, as if the bathroom itself might somehow share in her excitement. Her lips curled into a quick, confident grin, and she gave herself a playful wink. It wasn’t bravado, not really—it was more like a promise, a reminder to herself that today was hers to own.

Her long black hair dripped down her back, tiny rivulets of water running along the towel’s edge and pooling at her feet. With a flick of her wrist, she grabbed the comb resting on the sink and started working through the tangles. The teeth of the comb caught here and there, and she winced, muttering under her breath about “snarls tougher than a wild Onix.” Still, she persisted, humming softly as she worked, a melody that vaguely resembled the PokéRap. The rhythm seemed to lighten her mood, and by the time she was finished, her hair fell in a sleek, damp curtain over her shoulders, smooth and untangled.

The bathroom had started to feel like a sauna, and Ashley pushed the door open, stepping into the cooler air of the hallway. A shiver ran through her as the early-morning chill nipped at her skin, making her toes curl slightly against the hardwood floor. From somewhere outside, she could hear the soft, familiar chirps of Pidgey, their calls blending with the distant, rhythmic sound of waves from the Pallet coastline. The world outside was waking up, and so was she.

The soft morning light filtered through the pale curtains, casting a golden glow over everything. The faint dust motes floating lazily in the light made her pause for a second, taking in how quiet and still the room felt compared to the buzz of her own thoughts. But there was no time to linger. She tossed her towel into the laundry basket with a quick flick of her wrist, already moving toward her closet.

It was time to suit up.

Her outfit was laid out exactly where she’d left it the night before, a stark contrast to the piles of magazines, Poké Ball stickers, and half-folded clothes that cluttered the rest of her space. There was something almost ceremonial about it, like the clothes themselves had been waiting for this moment as much as she had. She slipped into her red skirt first, the pleats swishing lightly as they settled against her legs. The fabric felt familiar, like slipping into a role she’d been rehearsing for years.

Next came the white button-up shirt. The material was crisp and cool against her skin as she worked her way down the row of buttons. It fit just right—snug but not too tight. She tugged on the black vest over the shirt, smoothing it out before adjusting it until it sat perfectly. Satisfied, she bent down and grabbed her sneakers from under her desk. They were a little scuffed, the red on the sides faded in places from years of running through Pallet Town’s winding paths and grassy fields. But they were reliable, and reliable was exactly what she needed today. She laced them up with practiced speed, double-knotting them out of habit. No loose laces to trip her up—not today.

Her pink and black backpack was propped up against her desk chair, and she swung it onto her shoulders with practiced ease. She double-checked the contents like her life depended on it: Potions? Check. Snacks? Double check. A roll of extra socks? Probably unnecessary, but also check. She tugged the straps tight, feeling the comforting weight of it on her back.

Finally, her eyes landed on her most prized possession: her red and white Poké Ball hat. It hung from the corner of her mirror, waiting like a crown ready to be claimed. She grabbed it carefully, turning it over in her hands as her thumb brushed across the brim. The fabric was worn in spots, soft from years of use. This wasn’t just a hat—it was a piece of her story. It had been with her through every stage of her dream: the early days of imagining her first battle, the frustration of waiting for her chance, and now, this moment.

Ashley stood there for a beat, holding the hat in her hands, her heart pounding just a little faster. It wasn’t just an accessory—it was a symbol of everything she wanted to become. With a deep breath, she set it firmly on her head, tilting it back just enough to add a hint of attitude. She glanced at herself in the mirror, the corners of her lips twitching into a smirk.

“Perfect,” she said, the word slipping out like a declaration.

Her reflection stared back, not just as Ashley Ketchum, the girl from Pallet Town, but as someone ready to take on the world. Today wasn’t just another day—it was the start of everything she’d been dreaming of. And she was ready.

Ashley spun on her heel, taking one last look around her room. Her eyes lingered on her bed, still rumpled from her mad dash out of it, and then on the little framed photo on her desk. It was a picture of her and her parents, standing in front of the Pallet Town sign, grinning like a trio of Meowth that had just scored a payday. “I’ve got this,” she whispered, a small smile tugging at her lips.

She left her room, the door creaking slightly as it closed behind her. The familiar sound of her mom bustling around the kitchen floated up from downstairs, along with the faint clink of dishes. Ashley couldn’t help but grin as her sneakers squeaked against the wooden stairs as she bounded down, two steps at a time, her bag bouncing lightly against her back. The warm smells of freshly made breakfast pulling her in like a lure on a line. Her mom, was standing near the counter, her apron slightly dusted with flour, and Mimey was bustling about, balancing plates of toast and pancakes on one arm like a pro waiter. Meanwhile, her dad sat at the kitchen table, his Ranger jacket slung casually over the back of the chair. His Flareon was curled up neatly at his feet, her fur glowing faintly in the sunlight streaming through the window. On the sofa, Raichu sprawled like a lazy king, its his flicking lazily to the side.

“Morning, champ!” her dad called out, raising his mug of coffee in a toast. He had a voice like a Growlithe’s bark—warm, full of energy, and just a little rough around the edges.

“Morning, Dad!” Ashley chirped back, throwing her bag onto a nearby chair and sliding into her usual seat. She grabbed a piece of toast off the stack Mimey set down, giving the Pokémon an appreciative nod. “Thanks, Mimey!”

“Mime-mime!” Mimey responded with a cheerful wave, already shuffling back to grab another dish.

Her mom walked over and plopped a glass of orange juice in front of her. “Eat up, Ashley. You’re going to need your strength today.” Her tone was light, but there was that mom-level seriousness underneath it that made Ashley nod and take a big bite of toast without protest.

Her dad leaned back in his chair, his hand absently scratching Flareon’s ears. “So, you’ve got everything packed, right? Spare socks, Potions, antidotes? And you remember how to pitch a tent?”

Ashley rolled her eyes, crumbs falling from her mouth as she spoke. “Yes, Dad. I’m not gonna, like, wander into the wilderness and immediately get lost or something.”

“Good,” he said, smirking. “Because I’ve seen what happens when rookie trainers forget the basics. Trust me, you don’t want to end up sleeping under a Beedrill nest.”

Ashley made a face. “Ew, gross. Thanks for that mental image.”

Raichu stretched from his spot on the sofa, letting out a long yawn, and shot her a look that was somewhere between amused and unimpressed. His cheeks sparked faintly, a sign he was perfectly content to laze the morning away.

Her mom sat down next to her and rested a hand on her shoulder. “Just promise you’ll use the PokéNav we gave you for your last birthday, okay? Once a week. Minimum.”

Ashley nodded, swallowing another bite. “I will, I promise! You’re just a call away. I won’t forget.”

Her dad, ever the over-preparer, chimed in. “And if you run into trouble, remember to use the emergency frequency I programmed in there. And—”

“Dad,” Ashley interrupted, holding up a hand. “I’ve got it. Emergency frequency. Call if I need help. Don’t try to fight an Onix with a Pidgey. I’ve been listening to you tell me this stuff since I could walk.”

He laughed, his grin crinkling the corners of his eyes. “Fair enough, kiddo. But, just in case…” He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out a small case. He slid it across the table toward her.

Ashley raised an eyebrow as she picked it up and clicked it open. Inside were several small disks, the kind trainers would instantly recognize. “TMs?” she asked, her eyes widening.

“Reusable TMs,” her dad corrected with a wink. “I picked these up back during my own journey. They’ve served me well, and now they’re yours. Protect, Swift, Double Team, Substitute, and Hidden Power. You use these right, and you’ll be ready for anything.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped as she stared at the disks, her fingers brushing over the smooth surface of the one labeled Protect. “Dad, this is… this is awesome! Are you sure? These are, like, legit vintage.”

“Of course, I’m sure,” he said, leaning forward and tapping the case. “I want you to have the best start you can. Besides, I’ve got other tricks up my sleeve. You think I made Ace Ranger rank by being unprepared?”

Ashley laughed and snapped the case shut, carefully tucking it into her bag. “Thanks, Dad. Seriously. This is gonna help so much.”

Her mom smiled warmly, her hand still on Ashley’s shoulder. “We’re so proud of you, sweetheart. I know you’ve been waiting for this day for a long time.”

Ashley glanced between her parents, her chest tightening with a mix of excitement and emotion. They’d always been her biggest supporters, even when she was just a kid running around Pallet Town pretending to battle imaginary trainers. Now it was real. Now, she was about to step into the world for real.

“Don’t go getting all mushy on me now,” she teased, though her voice wavered slightly. She stood up, slinging her bag back over her shoulder and adjusting her hat. “Alright. I’ve got a lab to get to, and a Pokémon to pick!”

Her dad stood as well, giving her a firm clap on the back that almost made her stumble. “That’s the spirit. Go get ’em, champ.”

Flareon yawned and stretched, watching her with bright eyes, while Raichu gave a half-hearted wave with its tail. Mimey gave a cheerful “Mime!” as she headed for the door, her parents following behind.

Ashley turned back at the last second, her grin wide and full of determination. “Next time you see me, I’ll have a whole team of awesome Pokémon, and a complete set of badges!”

Her parents waved as Ashley stepped out the front door. The sunlight spilling over Pallet Town like a warm, golden blanket. The morning air was crisp and clean, carrying the faint scent of wildflowers from the nearby fields. Her bag felt comfortably heavy on her shoulders, a reassuring reminder that she was finally about to set out on her long-awaited journey. But before she could head to the lab, she paused at the edge of the path, glancing toward the backyard.

She couldn’t leave without saying goodbye to the rest of her dad’s Pokémon. These were the Pokémon that had been there since she was little, the ones who’d let her climb all over them when she was barely tall enough to reach their knees. They were family.

With a determined nod, Ashley jogged around the house, the grass crunching softly beneath her sneakers. The backyard opened up into a spacious training area, a mix of dirt patches and lush grass surrounded by a wooden fence. Her dad’s Pokémon team was scattered around, basking in the morning light or quietly going about their routines. The sight of them made her grin so wide her cheeks hurt.

Rapidash was the first to notice her, her flame-tipped mane flickering gently in the breeze like a living torch. The fiery horse Pokémon stood near the far end of the yard, her sleek, cream-colored body practically glowing in the sunlight. Her powerful legs, lean and strong, were dusted with a faint sheen of sweat from an earlier gallop, and her long tail burned just as brightly as her mane, sending small flickers of heat into the cool morning air. Rapidash’s dark, intelligent eyes locked onto Ashley as she approached, her ears twitching at the sound of her voice. The rhythmic sway of her flames cast flickering shadows across the ground, adding a warm glow to the grassy yard.

“Hey, girl!” Ashley called, slowing her brisk walk to a casual saunter. Her grin widened as Rapidash lifted her regal head, nickering softly, the sound low and musical. The Pokémon’s long, graceful neck arched slightly, and she trotted a few steps closer to meet her, her movements as fluid and elegant as water flowing downhill.

Ashley reached out a hand, and Rapidash lowered her head to nuzzle her palm, the warmth of her velvety nose instantly noticeable. She could feel the heat radiating off her body—not scorching, but comforting, like standing near a campfire. “I’m heading out today. Can’t leave without saying goodbye, though.” Her voice softened as she ran her hand down Rapidash’s smooth neck, her fingertips brushing the short fur that framed the base of the creature’s flickering mane.

Rapidash nickered again, her breath warm against her hand. Ashley laughed quietly, giving her a gentle scratch behind one of her ears. “Keep an eye on Dad for me, okay? He’s gonna need you to remind him not to overdo it.”

The Pokémon whinnied softly, a sound that almost seemed amused. her ears twitched as if to say, I’ve got it covered. Rapidash leaned into her touch for a moment longer before stepping back, her flames flickering brighter, almost in a show of encouragement.

Ashley’s grin lingered as she turned toward the yard’s center, where Rhyhorn was sprawled in a patch of soft dirt, half-dozing under the morning sun. The massive Pokémon’s rocky hide gleamed faintly, each crag and ridge catching the light and giving it the appearance of a living boulder. His sturdy frame was both imposing and oddly endearing, with a jagged horn protruding from his head like a small mountain peak.

As Ashley approached, Rhyhorn let out a low rumbling breath that made the ground beneath her feet tremble slightly. His thick tail twitched lazily, stirring up small clouds of dust. “Hey, big guy,” she said, crouching beside the Pokémon and resting a hand on one of his massive, rough legs. The texture felt like sun-warmed stone beneath her fingers. “Bet you’ll miss me yelling at you to stop knocking over the garden fence, huh?”

Rhyhorn cracked one heavy-lidded eye open, his dark pupil glinting in the sunlight. He let out a short, huffy snort that ruffled Ashley’s hair, clearly too comfortable in his lazy sprawl to do much else.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. It wasn’t always your fault,” Ashley said with a mock-sigh, giving the rocky leg a couple of firm pats. “Still, try to behave while I’m gone, okay? I’d rather not come home to find half the yard flattened.”

With a mischievous grin, she reached up and gave his horn a playful tap. Rhyhorn rumbled softly, his eyelid drooping closed again as if to say, No promises. Ashley laughed and stood, brushing the dirt off her hands as she took a step back to admire her dad’s Pokémon.

A shadow passed over her, swift and deliberate, and Ashley instinctively glanced up. Pidgeot, her dad’s majestic Flying-type Pokémon, descended in a graceful arc, sunlight glinting off her sleek, golden-brown feathers. Her broad wings sliced through the air with ease, each feather so perfectly arranged it looked as though she’d spent hours preening. She landed a few feet away, her talons making only the softest sound as they touched the earth. The motion was fluid, practiced, and undeniably elegant.

Pidgeot stretched her wings wide before tucking them neatly against her sides, the tips brushing the ground for just a moment. Her sharp, amber eyes locked onto Ashley’s, their intensity softened by a spark of recognition and affection. A small breeze followed her descent, ruffling Ashley’s hair and the hem of her skirt.

“Show-off,” Ashley teased, her grin widening as she held out an arm. Pidgeot stepped closer, her head tilting slightly, giving her the haughty-but-friendly look that was her trademark. With a soft chirp, she nuzzled Ashley’s forearm, her beak surprisingly gentle for something so sharp.

Ashley ran her fingers over the smooth, sleek feathers of Pidgeot’s head, tracing the faint gradient of gold into warm red that crowned her like a crest. “You’ve always been the cool one, huh? Don’t let it go to your head.” Her fingers trailed down one of Pidgeot’s wings, carefully brushing along the edge where the feathers tapered into a sharp, almost blade-like structure. The texture was soft yet firm, a testament to Pidgeot’s power in flight.

Pidgeot cooed softly, the sound rolling like a low chuckle as she puffed out her chest and ruffled her feathers. It was as if she were saying, Too late.

Ashley laughed, shaking her head as Pidgeot gave a satisfied shake of her tail feathers before stepping back. “Yeah, yeah, we all know you’re amazing. Don’t get used to hearing it, though.”

As Pidgeot settled herself back into a proud stance, Ashley’s gaze shifted to the far end of the yard, where Venusaur was sprawled beneath the shade of a sprawling oak tree. The massive Grass-and-Poison-type Pokémon looked completely at ease, his wide, leafy hide blending almost seamlessly with the greenery around him. The enormous flower on his back, a burst of vibrant reds and pinks with a thick green stem, seemed to glow in the dappled sunlight filtering through the branches above. The petals fanned open like a natural parasol, catching and refracting the light like stained glass.

“Hey, buddy,” Ashley called out as she jogged over, her sneakers crunching against the grass. Venusaur turned his massive head toward her, his deep, earthy eyes glinting with familiarity and fondness. He let out a low rumble, a sound that vibrated through the ground beneath her feet. It was a greeting as much as an acknowledgment.

Ashley didn’t hesitate, leaning her back against his broad, rough flank like she’d done a hundred times before. His hide was textured like bark, sturdy and ancient-feeling, and it radiated a faint warmth, as if the sun’s energy was stored inside him. Her hand automatically reached out to pat his side, the leaves brushing against her fingertips as she did.

“Thanks for always being there,” she said, her voice soft but clear. “You’re like... the wise old grandpa of the team, you know that?”

Venusaur let out another rumble, deeper this time, and Ashley swore it sounded suspiciously like a laugh. His massive body shifted slightly, almost as if he were nodding.

“What? It’s a compliment!” she added with mock indignation, tapping his hide gently. “Anyway, I’m gonna miss you. Don’t let Dad slack off on his training, okay? You’ve got the authority to keep him in line.”

Venusaur turned his head slightly, his large, expressive eyes meeting hers. After a moment, he gave a slow, deliberate nod. Ashley smiled, pressing her hand flat against his rough skin and letting the warmth seep into her palm.

As she straightened up, she let her eyes wander across the yard, taking in the sight of her dad’s Pokémon one more time. Rapidash stood proudly by the fence, her flame-tipped mane and tail flickering like living fire. She nickered softly, stamping a hoof against the ground as if to say, You’ve got this. Pidgeot flapped her wings once, creating a small gust that stirred the air and made the leaves rustle. Rhyhorn, still sprawled in his patch of dirt, snorted in contentment, shifting slightly to settle himself more comfortably. Venusaur rumbled again, his flower swaying gently in the breeze.

They weren’t just her dad’s Pokémon—they were her family. They’d been there for every scraped knee, every impromptu training session, every silly idea she’d ever had. The realization hit her like a soft but firm nudge to the chest: she wasn’t just leaving her house or her town. She was leaving them, too.

Her chest tightened slightly, but she pushed the feeling down, determination flaring in its place. She adjusted the brim of her hat, her fingers steady and sure. “Alright, everyone,” she said, her voice rising with confidence. “Next time you see me, I’ll have my own team. And trust me, they’re gonna be just as awesome as you, guys. Maybe even better.”

Rapidash whinnied, her mane flaring brighter for a moment. Pidgeot let out a low, melodic trill, her wings spreading briefly in a display of approval. Rhyhorn gave another snort, his rocky hide shifting as he turned his head lazily toward her. Venusaur rumbled one last time, his flower swaying as if nodding in agreement.

Ashley laughed, the sound bright and free, as she took a step back toward the path leading out of the yard. “Yeah, yeah, I’ll try not to get a big head about it,” she teased, waving a hand over her shoulder.

As she walked away, she couldn’t resist glancing back one last time. The Pokémon were still watching her, their gazes steady and supportive. It was like they were silently saying, We’re proud of you. Now go make your own story.

Her grin widened as she turned forward, her hand brushing the brim of her hat again. “Watch out, Kanto,” she muttered under her breath, her voice full of determination. “Here I come.”

Ashley’s grin widened, and she broke into a jog, her bag bouncing against her back. The lab wasn’t far now, and she could practically feel the anticipation buzzing in the air. This was it. Her journey was officially about to begin. And she was ready.

Ashley hummed under her breath, a cheerful tune that seemed to match the rhythm of her skipping feet. The dirt path leading toward the lab stretched ahead of her, but she wasn’t in a hurry. She’d waited years for this moment; a few extra minutes wouldn’t hurt. Besides, Pallet Town deserved a proper goodbye.

The morning sunlight bathed the quaint little village in a warm glow, making every blade of grass and patch of wildflowers sparkle like they’d been dusted with glitter. She paused near a patch of daisies growing along the roadside, crouching down to gently brush her fingers over the petals. “Gonna miss these little details,” she murmured before standing back up and brushing the dirt off her knees.

Pidgey flitted between the rooftops, their chirps filling the air with a kind of music only Pallet Town could offer. Ashley’s gaze followed one of them as it darted down toward the cobblestone path that led to the main square. A little kid, maybe four or five, was tossing breadcrumbs onto the ground, giggling as a small flock of Pidgey pecked at the crumbs.

She smiled and kept moving, her sneakers kicking up tiny clouds of dust as she walked. Just ahead, the familiar scent of freshly baked bread wafted from the open windows of the local bakery. As she passed by, old Mrs. Abbott was setting a tray of rolls out on a table by the front door, her apron dusted with flour.

“Well, if it isn’t Ashley Ketchum!” the elderly woman called out, shading her eyes from the sun with one hand. “Big day, huh?”

Ashley stopped, turning on her heel to face her. “You bet it is, Mrs. Abbott! First day as a trainer. I’m finally hitting the road!”

Mrs. Abbott chuckled, her wrinkled face crinkling with warmth. “About time, if you ask me. You’ve been talking about this since you were knee-high to a Poliwag. Here.” She reached for one of the rolls and handed it to Ashley, who took it with wide eyes.

“For me? Thanks, Mrs. Abbott!”

“Don’t mention it, dear. You’re going to need your strength out there. And don’t forget—when you’re a big-time trainer, you’ll still be from Pallet Town. Make us proud.”

Ashley gave her a mock salute, holding the roll in her other hand. “Will do! Pallet Town’s going to be famous because of me, just you wait.”

She waved goodbye and took a bite of the roll as she continued walking. It was still warm, the buttery flavor melting on her tongue. She sighed contentedly, glancing toward the fields on the edge of town where Tauros grazed lazily in the distance. A farmer leaned against the fence, watching over them with a straw hat tilted low over his face.

“Don’t let those Tauros get too comfortable, Mr. Haywood!” Ashley called out, grinning as the old man straightened up.

“They won’t, as long as you don’t scare ’em off with all your hollerin’,” he teased, tipping his hat at her. “Good luck out there, Ashley.”

“Thanks! I’ll bring you a souvenir from the Indigo Plateau!” she shouted back, her voice carrying easily across the open field.

The road curved slightly, leading her toward a familiar grove of trees that bordered Pallet Town. Ashley slowed her pace, her fingers brushing against the rough bark of one of the old oaks. This had been her playground once, back when her biggest dream was climbing high enough to see over the rooftops. She stopped at one particular tree and squinted up at a low branch. Sure enough, the faint carving she and her childhood friends had etched into the bark was still there: a Poké Ball surrounded by their initials.

“Still here, huh?” she said softly, tracing the lines with her fingertip. She stepped back and smiled, giving the tree a small pat before moving on.

As she neared the town square, a familiar figure came into view. Old Mr. Tanaka sat on a bench near the fountain, tossing small handfuls of Pokémon Treats to his Growlithe, who barked happily as it chased after them. Ashley stopped a few steps away, crossing her arms and raising an eyebrow.

“Doesn’t Growlithe ever get tired of being spoiled, Mr. Tanaka?”

The old man looked up, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. “Spoiled? This boy works hard guarding my house. He deserves it! Besides, shouldn’t you be on your way to the lab? Don’t tell me you’re slacking already.”

Ashley snorted, sticking out her tongue. “Yeah, right. I just wanted to take my time. You know, soak it all in before I head out.”

Mr. Tanaka nodded, stroking his beard thoughtfully. “That’s smart. The world’s a big place, kiddo. Don’t forget where you came from.”

“I won’t,” she promised, giving him a small wave as she turned to go. “See you around, Mr. Tanaka. Don’t let Growlithe eat too many treats!”

The elder laughed, his voice carrying after her as she walked away. “No promises!”

Ashley’s steps slowed as she reached the top of a small hill overlooking the rest of Pallet Town. She stopped, her hand automatically going to the brim of her hat. From here, she could see everything—the cozy houses, the fields stretching toward the horizon, the glimmer of water where the river met the sea.

This was her home. It always would be. But now, it was time to leave it behind and find her place in the world. Taking a deep breath, Ashley started back down the hill, her destination clear in her mind.

Professor Oak’s lab was waiting. And so was her first Pokémon.

The dirt path led her to the towering gates of Professor Oak’s lab, the building standing tall on a slight hill overlooking Pallet Town. The polished dome of its roof gleamed in the sunlight, and a slight breeze rustled the bushes lining the walkway. Ashley adjusted her hat and took a deep breath, gripping the straps of her backpack as she stepped forward.

The lab doors slid open with a faint whoosh, revealing the familiar sterile but welcoming interior. The faint hum of machinery filled the air, and shelves crammed with Poké Balls, books, and Pokémon research equipment lined the walls.

“Professor Oak! I’m here!” she called out, her voice echoing through the space.

A clatter came from somewhere deeper in the lab, followed by hurried footsteps. Professor Oak appeared from behind a desk piled high with papers, a half-eaten sandwich in one hand and a pencil tucked behind his ear. His eyebrows shot up when he saw her.

“Ashley? What are you doing here so early?” he asked, brushing crumbs from his lab coat. “I didn’t expect you for at least another hour.”

Ashley smirked, leaning on the edge of a nearby table. “What can I say? I wanted to beat Gary. Can’t let that guy hog all the glory, right?”

Oak chuckled, shaking his head. “I see you haven’t lost your competitive spirit. Well, since you’re here, let’s not waste any time.” He set down his sandwich and gestured for her to follow him deeper into the lab.

Ashley trailed behind, her sneakers squeaking faintly against the polished floor. As they walked, she couldn’t help but glance around at all the equipment. Monitors displayed data on various Pokémon, and a sleek machine in the corner hummed softly as it processed a tray of Poké Balls. She spotted a few lab assistants working at their stations, each one immersed in their tasks. One of them gave her a polite nod as she passed, and she nodded back.

They stopped in front of a raised platform, where three Poké Balls rested on a tray under a spotlight. Ashley’s heart skipped a beat as she stared at them. This was it—the moment she’d been dreaming about for years.

Professor Oak carefully picked up the first Poké Ball, its surface gleaming under the bright lab lights as he turned it in his hand. “Alright, Ashley. As you know, we’ve got three choices for new trainers in the Kanto region. First up, Bulbasaur—the Grass and Poison type. A solid choice for beginners, with excellent balance in offense and defense.” He pressed the button on the ball, and with a flash of white light, the Pokémon materialized in front of them.

Bulbasaur stood confidently, its stubby legs planted firmly on the lab’s smooth floor. Its round, blue-green body was covered in darker, patchy spots, and the bulb on its back glowed faintly as if catching some of the light in the room. Its large, red eyes blinked up at Ashley with curiosity, and it tilted its head slightly, letting out a soft, inquisitive “Bulba?”

Ashley crouched down, resting her elbows on her knees as she smiled warmly at the Pokémon. Up close, she could see the fine texture of its skin, almost like the surface of a leaf. “Hey there, little guy,” she said, her voice light and friendly. Bulbasaur’s ears twitched, and it took a tiny step forward, sniffing the air. “You’re adorable,” Ashley added with a chuckle, reaching out as if to touch it but stopping short. “But let’s see the others first, okay?”

Bulbasaur let out a small, almost understanding sound, stepping back as Professor Oak pressed the button on the Poké Ball again. In another flash of light, Bulbasaur disappeared, its bulb dimming as it was safely recalled.

Oak moved to the next ball, holding it up with a practiced motion. “Next, we have Squirtle, a Water type. Known for its strong defensive abilities and versatility in battle.” He clicked the button, and this time the light gave way to the compact form of a tiny turtle Pokémon.

Squirtle’s shell caught the light, its smooth surface shining as if freshly polished. Its round, cheerful face lit up as it immediately struck a pose, puffing out its chest and placing its tiny hands on its hips. “Squirt!” it chirped, its voice high and full of energy.

Ashley grinned, standing up to get a better look. “A natural show-off, huh? I like your style.” She knelt back down, watching as Squirtle’s big brown eyes tracked her movements. Its tail, curled like a perfect spiral, swished back and forth behind it. Tentatively, she reached out to pat its smooth, shiny head, and Squirtle leaned into the touch, clearly enjoying the attention.

“Alright, you’re cool,” Ashley said, standing again and brushing off her knees. “But let’s see who’s next.”

Professor Oak chuckled softly as he recalled Squirtle, the little Pokémon disappearing in a flash of red light. He picked up the third and final Poké Ball, the small smile on his face deepening. “And finally, Charmander, a Fire type. Known for its fiery spirit and strong bond with its trainer.”

When Oak pressed the button, the flash of light seemed brighter than the others—or maybe that was just Ashley’s imagination. As the light faded, Charmander appeared, its small, lizard-like body standing upright with its tail flame flickering like a tiny torch. Its bright orange skin practically glowed in the lab’s light, and its large, sky-blue eyes locked onto Ashley’s almost instantly.

“Char…” it said softly, its voice quieter than the others had been, but no less full of wonder. It tilted its head slightly, its tail swaying behind it in slow, curious arcs.

Ashley’s breath caught in her chest. There was something about the way Charmander looked at her—like it already trusted her, even though they’d just met. She crouched down again, lowering herself to its level, and held out her hand, palm up. “Hey there, buddy,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

Charmander hesitated for a moment, then took a small step forward, sniffing her fingers carefully. After a second, it leaned in and nuzzled her palm, its warm, smooth nose brushing against her skin. Ashley’s heart swelled, and she let out a small laugh. “Looks like you and me are gonna be a team.”

Charmander’s eyes lit up, and it let out an excited, high-pitched “Char! Charmander!” Its tail flame flared brighter for just a second, the flicker reflecting the excitement in its voice.

Professor Oak smiled, his expression soft and knowing. “Looks like you’ve made your choice,” he said, watching the two interact.

Ashley stood up, her grin spreading across her face. “Yeah,” she said, her voice firm with certainty. “I mean, no offense to Bulbasaur and Squirtle—they’re great—but this guy... we just click.” She glanced down at Charmander, who was now standing right beside her, his tail flame flickering with enthusiasm.

“An excellent choice,” Oak said, his tone approving as he handed her the Poké Ball. “Charmander is a loyal and brave partner. Treat him well, and he will do the same for you.”

Ashley nodded, turning the Poké Ball over in her hands. It felt surprisingly light for something that carried so much weight—symbolic and literal. She tucked it into her belt and glanced back at Charmander. He looked up at her, his bright eyes practically sparkling with anticipation, and she couldn’t help but smile.

“Thanks, Professor. I won’t let you down,” she said, her voice brimming with excitement and determination.

Oak chuckled. “I have no doubt you’ll make Pallet Town proud. Just remember to take things one step at a time.” Professor Oak placed the Pokédex firmly into Ashley’s hand, his eyes twinkling with the kind of pride that only came from seeing another trainer start their journey. “Now, this, my dear, is your Pokédex,” he said, his voice laced with his usual grandfatherly tone. “It’ll record data on every Pokémon you encounter. Think of it as your ultimate field guide. Oh, and…” He reached over to the table and grabbed a small pouch, holding it out. “Here are five Poké Balls to get you started. Use them wisely.”

Ashley took the Poké Balls, her grin widening as she clipped them onto her belt with a satisfying click. “Thanks, Professor! This is gonna come in handy when I find my dream team.” She glanced at Charmander, who tilted its head and let out a curious “Char?”

“Don’t worry, buddy,” Ashley said, crouching down to give her new partner a reassuring pat on the head. “You’re already the star of the show.”

Professor Oak chuckled, folding his arms. “So, Ashley, I assume you’ll be heading to Viridian City first. That’s the usual route for new trainers.”

Ashley stood up, adjusting the strap of her backpack and shaking her head. “Actually, I’ve got a different plan,” she said, her voice brimming with excitement. “I’m heading to Cinnabar Island. Blaine’s the strongest Fire-type trainer in Kanto, right? Who better to give me pointers on raising Charmander?”

Oak blinked, clearly caught off guard, but then his expression shifted into one of approval. “Hmm. That’s… unconventional, but I like your thinking. Going straight to the experts, are we?”

“Exactly!” Ashley said, punching a fist into her palm. “Charmander and I are gonna be unstoppable. Plus, it’s Cinnabar Island! Beaches, volcanoes, and awesome Pokémon. What’s not to love?”

Professor Oak laughed heartily. “Well, I have to say, you’re certainly starting your journey with style. But you’d better get moving. The ferry to Cinnabar leaves in—” He checked his watch and raised his eyebrows. “—15 minutes.”

“Wait, what?” Ashley blurted, her voice rising an octave. “15 minutes?! How am I supposed to get to the dock in time?”

“Luckily for you, I can help you with that,” Oak said with a grin. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small ferry ticket, holding it up between two fingers. “Take this. It’s already paid for. Just show it at the dock, and you’re all set.”

Ashley snatched the ticket, her movements a blur as she stuffed it into her pocket. “You’re the best, Professor!” she said, already moving toward the door. She paused halfway, glancing back with a sheepish grin. “Uh, gotta run now. Thanks for everything!”

“Don’t forget to call home!” Oak called after her, waving as she bolted out the door. “Good luck, Ashley—and take good care of Charmander!”

The lab doors slid shut behind her, and Ashley hit the ground running, her sneakers pounding against the dirt path as she sprinted toward the docks. Charmander kept pace beside her, its little legs moving comically fast to keep up. The flames on its tail flickered brightly in the breeze, and it let out a series of excited “Char-char-char!” sounds as it ran.

“Come on, buddy, we’ve got this!” Ashley said between breaths, her voice tinged with laughter. She couldn’t help but feel a rush of adrenaline as they weaved through the quiet streets of Pallet Town.

Mr. Haywood was still leaning against his fence, and he straightened up as Ashley zoomed past. “Whoa there, Ketchum! What’s the rush?”

“No time to chat!” Ashley yelled over her shoulder. “Gotta catch the ferry!”

Haywood chuckled, shaking his head as he watched her disappear down the road. “That kid’s got energy, I’ll give her that.”

Ashley and Charmander rounded the corner by the bakery, narrowly avoiding Mrs. Abbott, who was now arranging pastries in the window. “Ashley, slow down before you—” But her words were lost in the distance as Ashley dashed past, laughing.

The docks came into view just as the sound of the ferry horn echoed across the water. Ashley’s heart leapt into her throat as she saw the crew beginning to pull up the gangplank. “No way we’re missing this!” she shouted, pushing herself to run faster.

Charmander matched her stride, its tail flame blazing like a tiny torch as they closed the gap. “Char!” it cried, its voice full of determination.

“Wait!” Ashley yelled, waving her arms wildly as they reached the dock. “We’re here! Don’t leave yet!”

One of the deckhands, a burly man with a Machoke assisting him, glanced up and saw her barreling toward the ship. He raised an eyebrow but held up a hand to halt the gangplank. “Hold on a second!” he called to the crew.

Ashley skidded to a stop, panting heavily as she handed over her ticket. “T-told you… we’d make it…” she wheezed, grinning as the deckhand inspected the ticket and nodded.

“Alright, you’re good to go,” he said, motioning for her to board.

“Thanks!” she said, scooping up Charmander and dashing onto the ferry. The deck was bustling with other trainers and travelers, but Ashley found a spot near the railing where she could catch her breath.

Setting Charmander down, she leaned on the railing and looked out at the sparkling ocean. The ferry began to pull away from the dock, and Pallet Town grew smaller in the distance. Ashley couldn’t help but smile as she took it all in—the sun glinting off the waves, the salty breeze, and the excited chatter of the other passengers.

Charmander climbed onto the railing beside her, its wide eyes fixed on the horizon. “Char?” it said softly, tilting its head toward her.

Ashley ruffled the top of its head, her grin widening. “We did it, buddy. First step of the journey, and we’re already making waves—literally. Cinnabar Island, here we come!”

Charmander let out a happy chirp, its tail flame glowing brighter as the ferry picked up speed, carrying them toward the adventure of a lifetime.

The gentle rocking of the ferry and the salty breeze in the air made everything feel a little surreal. Ashley leaned against the railing, her hair whipping in the wind as she stared out at the endless blue of the ocean. Charmander, sitting beside her, balanced on the edge with surprising confidence, its tail flame flickering brightly in the sunlight.

Ashley grinned and pulled out her shiny new Pokédex from her bag. The device hummed softly as it booted up, the screen flickering to life. “Alright, let’s check you out,” she said, angling the Pokédex toward Charmander.

The device beeped, and a cheerful robotic voice chimed, “Charmander, the Lizard Pokémon. It has a preference for hot things. When it rains, steam is said to spout from the tip of its tail.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, glancing down at Charmander’s tail. “Steam, huh? That’s kinda dramatic. Bet you’ll be a hit during the rainy season.”

Charmander puffed out its chest proudly, its tail flame glowing brighter as if to prove a point. Ashley chuckled and tapped the screen to pull up more information. “Okay, let’s see your stats.”

The screen changed, displaying Charmander’s abilities and moves in neat rows. Ashley squinted at the information, reading aloud as she scrolled. “Blaze ability… alright, that boosts Fire moves when you’re in a pinch. Pretty sweet. And you’re a dude, huh? Good to know.”

Charmander tilted his head, looking curious but interested as he listened.

“Move set: Ember, Smokescreen, Scary Face, and Slash.” Ashley paused, leaning closer to the screen. “Wait, what’s this? Egg move: Dragon Rush. Not unlocked yet.” She let out a low whistle, impressed. “A Dragon-type move in your future? You’re gonna be unstoppable.”

Charmander’s eyes lit up, and he let out an excited “Char-char!” hopping in place. His enthusiasm made Ashley laugh.

“Alright, alright, calm down,” she said, waving a hand. “I know you’re awesome, and you know you’re awesome, but let’s not let it go to your head too fast.”

Charmander responded by flexing one of his tiny arms, letting out a playful growl. Ashley snorted, reaching out to ruffle the top of his head. “You’re ridiculous, but I like it.”

She tucked the Pokédex back into her bag and leaned against the railing again, her hand resting on her chin as she studied Charmander thoughtfully. “You know,” she started, “we should probably give you a name. Something cool. Something that screams, ‘This guy’s gonna kick your butt and look good doing it.’ What do you think?”

Charmander perked up at the idea, his tail wagging slightly as he clapped his claws together. “Char! Char!”

“Alright, so you’re into it. Let’s brainstorm.” Ashley tapped her chin, her brow furrowed in concentration. “What about Blaze? It’s classic. Fiery. To the point.”

Charmander tilted his head, his expression neutral.

“Okay, not Blaze. Uh… how about Inferno? Sounds intense, right?”

“Char…” Charmander let out a low sound, his tail flame dimming slightly as he shook his head.

“Wow, tough crowd,” Ashley said, crossing her arms. “Fine. What about something unique? Like… Phoenix?”

Charmander made a face, scrunching up his nose like he had just smelled something nasty.

Ashley burst out laughing. “Alright, alright, no Phoenix. Geez, you’re picky. You’re lucky you’re cute.” She looked up at the sky, searching for inspiration. The sun was high, glowing a deep orange-red, almost like…

“What about Mars?” she said suddenly, snapping her fingers. “It’s short, fiery, and kinda badass. Plus, it’s the god of war or something. Fits a future Charizard, don’t you think?”

Charmander’s eyes widened, and his tail flame flared up brightly. “Char! Char-char!” he cried, jumping up and down with excitement.

Ashley grinned. “Mars it is, then. Nice to meet you officially, Mars.” She held out her fist, and Charmander—no, Mars—bumped it with his tiny claw, his smile wide and full of pride.

“Alright, Mars,” Ashley said, straightening up and looking out at the horizon again. “You and me, we’re gonna make a name for ourselves. Cinnabar Island’s just the start. After that? Who knows?”

Mars chirped happily, his tail swishing back and forth as he settled beside her. Ashley rested a hand on his head, her grin softening into something more determined. “Yeah, I’d say this is a pretty good start to the journey.”

The ferry continued to glide across the ocean, the sound of waves mingling with laughter and the excited chatter of other trainers on board. For Ashley and Mars, the future was wide open—and they couldn’t wait to see what came next.

Chapter Text

From the moment the Professor released him from his Poké Ball, Charmander knew. This was it. This human—wild, grinning, and brimming with energy—was his human. He didn’t need much time to figure it out; he could feel it in the way she looked at him, in the way her voice softened as she crouched down to meet his gaze. When she reached out her hand, something clicked inside him, like a puzzle piece sliding into place.

And when she chose him, when she grinned and said they were going to be a team, that was it. No doubts. No hesitation. He was delighted. It was like she’d felt it too—that spark, that connection. And that wasn’t something you ignored.

From then on, the fun started immediately.

No sooner had they left the lab than Ashley took off running, her sneakers kicking up little clouds of dirt as they sped through Pallet Town. Charmander, for his part, didn’t need any convincing. His legs pumped furiously to keep up, his tail flame blazing in excitement as he dashed beside her. She was wild, unpredictable, and just a little bit reckless. He loved it.

“Come on, Charmander!” she shouted, laughing as she weaved around an old man walking a Growlithe. “We’ve got a ferry to catch! No time to slow down now!”

Charmander barked out a cheerful “Char!” in response, his claws scrabbling against the cobblestones as he matched her pace. His chest swelled with pride every time she glanced down at him, her grin wide and full of encouragement. This, he thought, is exactly what I’ve been waiting for.

The town passed by in a blur of colors and sounds—the rustling of wind through trees, the distant calls of Pidgey, and the occasional “Hey, watch it!” from someone Ashley almost barreled into. Charmander soaked it all in, his sharp eyes darting everywhere as they raced toward the docks.

By the time they reached the ferry, both of them were panting, their breaths coming out in short gasps. Ashley flashed their ticket, and with a quick thank-you to the deckhand, they sprinted up the gangplank just as the boat’s horn sounded. They’d made it.

Charmander let out a triumphant “Char-char!” his tail swishing wildly as they stepped onto the deck. Ashley bent over, hands on her knees as she caught her breath, but her grin never faded. It was then that Charmander earned his name, Mars.

He loved it!

They wandered over to the edge of the ferry, where the ocean stretched out before them, vast and shimmering under the midday sun. Mars froze again, his jaw dropping slightly as he took in the sight. The water was so big. So blue. It glittered like the scales of a Gyarados, and it seemed to go on forever.

“Pretty amazing, huh?” Ashley said, leaning her elbows on the railing. She glanced down at Mars, whose wide eyes were locked on the endless expanse of water. His tail swished back and forth, the flames flickering like they were caught in the rhythm of the waves.

Mars let out a soft, awed “Char...” He stepped closer, his claws clinking against the metal railing as he propped himself up for a better look. The salty breeze tousled his tail flame, making it dance even higher. For a moment, he was completely still, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of it all.

Ashley smiled, watching him take it in. “First time seeing the ocean, huh?” she said softly. Mars nodded, his gaze never leaving the water. He was mesmerized. This was nothing like the little ponds and controlled habitats he’d known back at the facility. This was wild, untamed, and full of possibilities.

She reached out and gave his back a light pat. “Get used to it, buddy. We’re gonna be seeing a lot of new things from here on out. This is just the beginning.”

Mars turned to look at her, his eyes shining with excitement. “Char-char!” he chirped, hopping down from the railing to stand beside her. He puffed out his chest again, his tail flame blazing brighter than ever.

Ashley laughed and ruffled his head as the ferry continued its journey across the ocean. The two of them stayed by the railing, watching the waves and talking about what might be waiting for them on the other side. Mars couldn’t understand all the words Ashley was saying, but he understood the energy behind them—the promise of adventure, of battles, of challenges worth facing.

His sharp eyes darting around as he took in the unfamiliar sights and sounds of the ocean. The rhythmic churning of the ferry’s engine, the cries of Wingull swooping overhead, and the vast expanse of water—it was all new, and it was exciting. For a Fire-type like Mars, born and raised in captivity, this was a whole new world.

Ashley could tell he was soaking it all in, and she found herself wondering about his life before they met. She crouched down to his level, resting her elbows on her knees. “So, Mars,” she started, her tone casual but curious, “what was life like before you met me?”

Mars looked at her, his tail flicking as if he were considering how to answer. He sat down, his tail flame curling protectively behind him, and let out a soft “Char…” before glancing back out at the water.

Ashley tapped her chin, her mind racing to piece together what she already knew. “Let me guess,” she said, leaning forward slightly. “You were raised in one of those big, fancy facilities, right? Like the ones they have for starters?”

Mars perked up at that, nodding quickly. His tail flame flared slightly, and he let out an excited chirp, as if to say, You got it!

“Yeah, I thought so,” Ashley said, smirking. “I mean, Professor Oak explained it all once. Charmanders aren’t exactly easy to find in the wild, huh? Low numbers, and all that.” She rested her chin in her hand, her voice turning more thoughtful. “I bet you were surrounded by other Charmanders, huh? Maybe some Charizards, too?”

Mars puffed out his chest proudly, clearly pleased with her guess. “Char! Char!” he barked, nodding again. His tail flame flickered higher for a moment, and Ashley couldn’t help but laugh.

“Okay, okay, I get it. You had a whole Fire-type family,” she teased, giving him a playful poke on the nose. “But I bet it wasn’t just Charmanders. I mean, those places usually have Squirtles and Bulbasaurs too, right?”

Mars let out a soft growl of agreement, his eyes narrowing slightly as if recalling something specific. Ashley raised an eyebrow, curious. “What? Did the Squirtles give you a hard time or something?”

Mars huffed, crossing his tiny arms and looking away dramatically. “Char…” he muttered, clearly annoyed by whatever memory he was recalling.

Ashley burst out laughing, leaning back on her heels. “Oh, no way! Did they gang up on you? I can totally see it—those little water brats probably thought they were so cool, huh?”

Mars glared at her, but the twinkle in his eye gave him away. After a moment, he let out a reluctant chuckle, the sound low and gravelly.

Ashley grinned and reached out to ruffle the top of his head. “Don’t worry, buddy. You’ve got me now. If any Squirtles try to mess with you, they’re gonna have to deal with both of us.”

Mars chirped happily at that, his tail swishing with renewed energy.

Ashley tilted her head, her smile softening as she watched him. “But… I bet it wasn’t all bad, right?” she asked. “You had your mom, and the breeders, and the scientists taking care of you. I mean, it sounds pretty peaceful.”

Mars hesitated, then gave a small nod. “Char…” he said softly, his tail flame dimming slightly as he sat back down. His gaze drifted back out to the ocean, and Ashley could see a hint of longing in his eyes.

“But peaceful can get boring,” she guessed, her tone understanding. “You’re a Fire-type. You need more than just a safe little bubble, huh? You need a challenge, an adventure.”

Mars turned back to her, his eyes bright with agreement. “Char! Charmander!” he barked, hopping to his feet. His tail flame flared brighter, and Ashley could feel the heat of it even from where she crouched.

“Yeah, I thought so,” she said, standing back up and brushing off her knees. “You were probably waiting for this moment forever, huh? Waiting for someone to pick you so you could finally get out there and see the world.”

Mars nodded again, his tail swishing so hard it nearly knocked into Ashley’s leg. She laughed, stepping back to avoid the flames. “Well, lucky for you, your patience paid off. ‘Cause now you’ve got me. And trust me, Mars, we’re gonna see everything.”

Mars let out an excited chirp, hopping in place as he flared his tail flame even higher. Ashley shook her head, grinning. “Alright, alright, calm down. We’ve got a whole journey ahead of us. Save some of that energy for when we actually get to Cinnabar.”

For both of them, this was the start of something big. And for Mars, it was more than just the end of a monotonous life—it was the beginning of an adventure filled with the challenges, excitement, and fun he’d always dreamed of.

As soon as the ferry made it to the island, Mars bounded off the ramp with all the energy of a freshly unboxed Fire Stone, his tail flame bobbing brightly behind him as he skidded to a stop on the sandy pavement of the bustling harbor. His sharp claws clicked against the ground as he took a moment to soak it all in, his blue eyes widening with excitement. This was nothing like the structured, predictable world of his past. The island was alive in a way Mars had never experienced before.

Ashley strolled up behind him, slinging her bag higher onto her shoulder. “So, what do you think, Mars?” she asked, gesturing at the chaos around them. “Pretty wild, huh?”

Mars turned back to her, his jaw slightly agape as if to say, You have no idea.

The air was thick with the salty tang of the ocean, mingling with the smoky aroma from a nearby food stand. The streets were a kaleidoscope of movement and sound—tourists snapping pictures, trainers haggling with shopkeepers, and Pokémon of all shapes and sizes weaving through the crowds. A flock of Wingull circled lazily overhead, their high-pitched cries adding to the symphony of Cinnabar Island’s harbor.

Mars sniffed the air curiously, his nose twitching as he picked up a dozen different scents at once. Somewhere to their right, the sharp metallic tang of machinery hinted at a mechanic’s shop, while further down the road, the sweet scent of Poké Puff frosting wafted from a bakery.

“Yeah, it’s a lot to take in,” Ashley said, nudging him lightly with her foot. “But stick with me, and we’ll figure it out.”

Mars didn’t need convincing. He was already laser-focused on his surroundings, his gaze darting from one sight to the next. A Persian slinked by, her sleek fur practically glowing in the sunlight. The feline moved gracefully, her golden charm swaying with each step, as she followed an older woman who was dripping in pearls and fine fabrics. Mars watched the Persian with wide eyes, his tail flame flickering higher as if to say, I could take you in a battle, easy.

Ashley caught the look on his face and smirked. “Don’t even think about it, Mars. That Persian could probably outclass us both without breaking a sweat.”

Mars grumbled something under his breath and turned his attention to the other side of the street, where a group of Rattata was darting between the legs of an unsuspecting vendor. The little rodents were quick, their purple fur flashing in the sunlight as they swiped crumbs from a fallen loaf of bread. One paused to glance at Mars, his whiskers twitching in defiance, before scampering off with his prize.

“See that?” Ashley said, pointing at the Rattata. “That’s what I call street smarts. You could learn a thing or two.”

Mars crossed his arms and let out a huff, his tail flicking indignantly. Clearly, he thought he was plenty smart already.

They continued down the bustling street, the sound of footsteps and voices blending into a constant hum around them. Mars’s claws clicked against the pavement as he kept pace beside Ashley, his head swiveling to take in every little detail. The shadows cast by the tall buildings stretched long across the street, and as they passed one particularly dark alley, Mars froze, his tail flame flickering in alarm.

Ashley noticed his sudden stillness and stopped, turning to follow his gaze. “What is it, Mars?” she asked, lowering her voice slightly. “See something?”

Mars’s eyes were locked on the shadows of the alley. For a moment, there was nothing but stillness—and then, a pair of glowing, mischievous eyes appeared, followed by the faint outline of a wide, toothy grin.

“Haunter,” Ashley muttered, recognizing the floating, ghostly figure as he emerged halfway from the darkness. The Haunter cackled softly, his disembodied hands floating menacingly as he waved at them.

Mars growled low in his throat, stepping forward with a determined look in his eyes. His tail flame flared brighter, casting flickering light across the alley.

“Easy, Mars,” Ashley said, placing a hand on his shoulder. “It’s just a Haunter. Probably belongs to a trainer.” She glanced around and spotted a young man leaning casually against a wall a few feet away, a Poké Ball clipped to his belt. He was watching the interaction with an amused smirk.

“Yours?” Ashley called out, tilting her head toward the Haunter.

The trainer nodded. “Yeah, sorry about that,” he said, pushing off the wall and strolling over. “He likes to spook the newbies. He is harmless.”

Ashley rolled her eyes, her hands on her hips. “Well, tell him to cut it out. My Charmander’s ready to throw down.”

Mars barked in agreement, his claws flexing as he glared at the Haunter. The ghost Pokémon laughed again, floating back toward his trainer as if thoroughly pleased with himself.

The trainer chuckled. “Don’t take it personally. He’s just messing around. Welcome to Cinnabar, by the way.”

“Thanks,” Ashley replied, her tone light but firm. “And maybe teach your Haunter some manners while you’re at it.”

The trainer gave a mock salute before turning away, his Haunter following close behind. Ashley shook her head and looked down at Mars, who was still bristling. “Alright, tough guy, save that energy for Blaine’s gym, huh? You’ll get your chance to show off soon enough.”

Mars let out a reluctant huff but nodded, his tail flame settling back to its usual steady flicker. They continued down the street, the energy of the island buzzing around them. For Mars, everything was new, exciting, and just a little overwhelming. Mars could hardly contain himself. His tail flame flickered with energy as he bounced on his toes, his sharp claws clicking against the pavement every time he shifted. This place—Cinnabar Island—was unlike anything he had ever known. The constant movement, the bright colors, the mix of sounds and scents, and the endless Pokémon to see... it was exhilarating. For a Fire-type who had spent his early days in controlled habitats, this chaos was exactly what he’d been waiting for.

Ashley seemed just as energized. “Alright, Mars,” she said, pulling out her phone as they stood in front of a colorful marketplace. Stalls lined the street, selling everything from berries and Poké Balls to handmade trinkets shaped like Magmar and Rapidash. The air smelled like a mix of roasted nuts and fresh seawater. “What do you think? Should we send a picture home to show them how awesome we’re doing?”

Mars tilted his head, curious, as Ashley leaned down and opened the camera app in her PokéNav. She extended her arm, framing both of them against the lively backdrop of the marketplace. “Alright, smile!” she said, grinning widely.

Mars responded by puffing out his chest and flashing his sharp teeth in what was either an attempt at a smile or a very toothy growl. Ashley snorted, unable to hold back a laugh. “Okay, okay, maybe less intimidating and more... I don’t know, cute?”

Mars raised an eyebrow at her but relented, softening his expression as he tilted his head just enough to catch the light on his flame. Ashley snapped the picture, the click of the PokéNav making Mars perk up as she turned the screen to show him the result.

“See? Perfect,” she said, pointing at the screen. Mars leaned in, his nose almost pressing against the glass, and let out a pleased chirp.

“Alright, next stop!” Ashley announced. Mars followed close beside her as they moved deeper into the bustling streets of the island. Every corner they turned seemed to reveal something new. A group of trainers were sparring in a small, open courtyard, their Pokémon—an Arcanine and a Ninetales—dodging and weaving as their trainers called out commands. Mars stopped in his tracks, eyes glued to the fiery battle.

Ashley noticed and paused, crossing her arms. “Thinking about joining in?” she asked, her tone teasing. “Pretty sure you’d wipe the floor with them.”

Mars gave her a look that practically screamed you know it and puffed out his chest again, his tail flame flaring up as if he were already imagining the victory.

“Alright, showboat, let’s keep moving,” Ashley said with a laugh, tugging lightly at his arm. “We’ve got a gym to scope out, remember?”

Reluctantly, Mars let his gaze linger on the battle for a moment longer before trotting after her, his claws clicking against the ground as they headed toward the heart of the island.

They passed a few tourists taking photos near a giant Magmar statue that loomed over a fountain, its flame-shaped tail curling upward like real fire. Ashley opened the camera app once again and nudged Mars. “Let’s grab another one. This is too good to miss.”

Mars hopped up onto the edge of the fountain and posed dramatically in front of the statue, his tail flame glowing brightly against the stone Magmar’s sculpted flames. Ashley snapped a few pictures, laughing as Mars tried to strike increasingly over-the-top poses. “Okay, Mars, you’re gonna put that statue to shame if you keep this up.”

As they continued their tour, Mars’s enthusiasm only grew. Every new sight was like a spark to his already burning excitement. He spotted a Machamp helping unload crates of supplies from a docked ship, his muscled arms moving with impressive precision. Near a bakery, a group of Eevee darted around a trainer’s feet, their fluffy tails wagging as they chased each other in circles. Mars stopped again, watching with interest as the Eevee played, their high-pitched barks mixing with the chatter of the crowd.

Ashley crouched beside him, following his gaze. “You wanna play too?” she teased, giving him a light nudge.

Mars let out a soft growl, his tail swishing back and forth as he watched the Eevee race away. But before Ashley could say anything more, his attention snapped to something else—a Magikarp flopping helplessly in a shallow puddle near a seafood stand.

“Char!” Mars barked, pointing with one claw.

Ashley followed his gaze and immediately stepped forward. “Oh, hey, hold up,” she said, kneeling beside the Magikarp. The Pokémon flailed weakly, her scales glistening in the sun. “Looks like it got caught out of the tank.”

Without missing a beat, she carefully scooped the Magikarp into her hands. “Mars, let’s get it back to the water.”

Mars trotted beside her as they carried the Magikarp to a small pool connected to the ocean. Ashley knelt down and gently released her into the water, watching as she splashed once before darting away into deeper waters.

“There you go, buddy,” she said with a smile, brushing her hands off as she stood. “Another crisis averted.”

Mars let out a proud chirp, his tail flame flickering brightly as if he were the one who had done all the work. Ashley laughed and ruffled his head. “You’re such a hero,” she teased. “Next thing I know, you’ll be rescuing Wailords or something.”

The afternoon stretched on as the duo explored more of the island. From the bustling streets to the quieter edges where trainers practiced in the shadow of Cinnabar’s volcanic peaks, every moment felt like a step further into the adventure Mars had been waiting for. He could feel it in the way his heart raced with every new sight, every new sound. This was his life now—full of excitement, challenges, and a trainer who seemed just as ready as he was to take on the world.

And for Mars, it was perfect.

The duo wandered into the shade of a busy street lined with colorful awnings, the buzz of trainers and tourists filling the air. That’s when Ashley spotted it—a small ice cream parlor nestled between a souvenir shop and a Poké Ball repair kiosk. The storefront was painted in pastel pinks and blues, and a wooden sign swung gently in the breeze, reading “Sweet Scoops Ice Cream—Cool Down, Trainer Style!”

Ashley stopped in her tracks, tugging lightly on Mars’s arm. “Hey, buddy, what do you think? Want to try something cold for a change?”

Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing thoughtfully behind him. He wasn’t entirely sure what cold meant, but the sweet, creamy smell wafting from the parlor already had his attention.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” Ashley said, grinning as she walked inside.

The interior was cozy, with bright walls and shiny tiled floors. A cheerful woman behind the counter greeted them. “Welcome! What can I get for you?” she asked, gesturing to the rows of ice cream flavors displayed under a curved glass case.

Ashley leaned down, scanning the colorful assortment. “Okay, Mars, this is a big decision,” she said, her tone mock-serious. “We’ve got vanilla, strawberry, caramel... and ooh, chocolate.” She glanced at Mars, who was now peering over the counter with wide eyes. His nose twitched, and his tail flame flickered in excitement.

“Yeah, I thought so,” Ashley said, pointing. “We’ll take one chocolate cone, please.”

The woman nodded and quickly prepared their order, handing Ashley a single scoop of rich, dark chocolate ice cream perched neatly on a waffle cone. Ashley paid and turned to Mars, holding the cone out like it was a trophy. “Here you go, champ. Our first official snack as a team.”

Mars blinked at the cone, leaning forward to sniff it curiously. A cool mist rose from the ice cream, and his nose crinkled at the unexpected chill.

“It’s not gonna bite you,” Ashley teased, holding the cone closer. “Just try it. It’s sweet, I promise.”

Tentatively, Mars stuck out his tongue and gave the ice cream a quick lick. His eyes went wide, and his tail flame flared brightly for a second before he let out an excited bark. “Char! Char!”

Ashley laughed, crouching down so she was at his level. “Told you it was good!”

Mars wasted no time after that, eagerly lapping at the cone while Ashley held it steady. He shivered slightly at the cold, his body unused to the sensation, but he didn’t seem to mind. In fact, every lick made his tail swish faster, like he was savoring each bite.

“Careful, you’re gonna get a brain freeze,” Ashley warned, though she couldn’t help but smile as Mars practically buried his face in the ice cream.

Mars paused for a moment, looking up at her with chocolate smeared on the tip of his nose. Ashley burst out laughing, covering her mouth with her free hand. “Oh, my Arceus, you’ve got a little...” She pointed to her own nose, still giggling.

Mars tilted his head, clearly confused, before following her gesture. When he realized what she meant, he huffed indignantly and wiped his nose with his tiny claw. But Ashley’s laughter was contagious, and before long, Mars was letting out a playful “Char-char!” as if he were laughing along with her.

“You’re such a goof,” Ashley said, her giggles subsiding as she stood back up and handed Mars the cone. He gripped it carefully in his claws, taking small licks now like he was determined to enjoy it properly.

The two of them found a small bench outside the parlor, sitting down to watch the lively street while Mars continued devouring his treat. Ashley leaned back, her hands behind her head, and let out a contented sigh. “Y’know, Mars, I think we make a pretty good team. You’re fun, you’re fiery, and you like chocolate. What more could I ask for in a partner?”

Mars glanced up from his cone, his blue eyes shining with happiness. He barked a cheerful “Char!” and swished his tail, the flame casting a warm glow even in the bright daylight.

“Yeah, yeah, I like you too,” Ashley said, grinning as she gave him a light nudge with her elbow. “Just don’t go stealing all my snacks, got it?”

Mars let out a playful growl, his mouth full of the last bite of ice cream. He licked the cone clean before tilting his head up at her, his expression almost smug.

Ashley smirked, shaking her head. “Alright, mister. You earned it this time.” She reached out and ruffled the top of his head, her fingers brushing against the smooth scales between his horns. “But next time, we’re getting two cones. You’re a hungry little guy.”

Mars chirped in agreement, his tail swishing lazily as he leaned back on the bench. For a moment, they sat in companionable silence, the sounds of the bustling street filling the air around them.

Ashley glanced over at her partner, who looked perfectly content, his tail flame flickering gently as he relaxed. She couldn’t help but smile. This was the kind of moment she’d always dreamed about—simple, fun, and shared with someone who already felt like family.

“Alright, Mars,” she said after a while, standing up and stretching her arms above her head. “Break time’s over. Let’s get going to the Pokémon Center.”

Mars hopped off the bench, his claws clicking against the pavement as he followed her. His flame flared brightly as he gave an eager “Char!” as he followed his trainer down the streets of the island. It did not take them long before they reached their destination.

The Pokémon Center loomed ahead, its iconic red roof and bright Poké Ball logo shining like a beacon. Ashley pushed the door open, the quiet ding of the entrance bell signaling their arrival. Inside, the atmosphere was calm and orderly—a stark contrast to the lively streets they’d just left. Trainers lounged in chairs, some tending to their Pokémon while others scrolled through their PokéDexes. The air was cooler here, the faint hum of machinery blending with the occasional soft Chansey! from somewhere behind the counter.

Mars trotted in behind Ashley, his claws clicking lightly against the tiled floor. He sniffed the air, his tail flame flickering curiously as he tried to make sense of this new place. The scents were different here—muted, sterile, and artificial. It wasn’t unpleasant, just... strange. He wrinkled his nose and looked up at Ashley, tilting his head in silent question.

Ashley noticed his hesitation and crouched down beside him. “Yeah, I know,” she said, ruffling the top of his head. “Smells kinda weird, right? That’s because this is a Pokémon Center. Trainers bring their Pokémon here when they’re hurt or tired so they can get healed up.”

Mars glanced around, his sharp eyes catching sight of a trainer handing a Poké Ball to Nurse Joy at the counter. Behind her, a Chansey was carefully organizing a tray of medical supplies. The Pokémon hummed softly to herself, her egg nestled snugly in her pouch.

Ashley’s voice softened, her tone taking on a note of seriousness. “This is kind of a special place, Mars. It’s where trainers and their Pokémon come when they need help. So, we’ve gotta be respectful, okay?”

Mars blinked up at her, then gave a firm nod. He puffed out his chest and turned toward the counter, striding forward with surprising dignity. When he reached Nurse Joy, he stopped and bowed his head politely, earning a delighted smile from both her and Chansey.

“Char,” he said solemnly, his tail swishing once behind him.

Ashley couldn’t help but laugh as she stepped up beside him. “Look at you, Mr. Manners,” she teased, handing over her PokéDex to Nurse Joy. “Hi! I’d like to register for the Indigo Pokémon League, and I’ll need a room for the night, too, please.”

Nurse Joy took the PokéDex with a practiced motion, her warm smile never faltering. “Of course! It’ll just take a moment to get you registered. Your room will be ready shortly.”

As Nurse Joy tapped away at her computer, Mars wandered a little, his nose twitching as he took in more of the Center. The faint beep of monitors and the occasional hum of healing machines caught his attention, but nothing fascinated him quite as much as the Chansey. He watched the pink Pokémon work, marveling at the way she carefully handled medical supplies with her stubby arms.

“Char?” Mars tilted his head, his flame flickering brightly.

Chansey glanced over and gave him a cheerful wave. “Chansey!”

Mars barked back in greeting before trotting back to Ashley’s side just as Nurse Joy handed over the PokéDex. “All set,” she said. “Your room is down the hall, second door on the left. Have a great stay!”

“Thanks!” Ashley said, giving a quick wave as she motioned for Mars to follow her. They made their way down the hallway, the bright lights and smooth floors giving everything a clean, almost futuristic feel.

When they reached their room, Ashley swiped the key card and pushed the door open. The small but cozy space was exactly what she’d expected—a simple bed with crisp white sheets, a desk with a small lamp, and a window overlooking the street below.

Mars hesitated at the doorway, his tail flame casting a warm glow over the floor. He sniffed the air again, his eyes landing on the bed. His trainer walked over and flopped onto it, bouncing slightly as the springs creaked under her weight.

“Oh man,” Ashley sighed, spreading her arms out dramatically. “I’ve been on my feet all day. This feels amazing.”

Mars padded closer, his claws clicking against the floor as he stopped at the edge of the bed. He tilted his head, staring at the mattress like it was some kind of alien object.

Ashley propped herself up on one elbow and raised an eyebrow at him. “What’s the holdup, Mars? You’re not scared of a bed, are you?”

That did it. Mars let out a defiant “Char!” and scrambled up onto the mattress, his claws sinking slightly into the soft material. His tail swished once, the flame casting dancing shadows on the wall as he settled down beside her.

Ashley laughed, reaching over to scratch the back of his head. “See? Not so scary, huh?”

Mars chirped softly, curling up against her side. The mattress was softer than anything he’d ever felt, and the faint warmth of Ashley’s body was comforting in a way he hadn’t expected. He let out a low, contented growl, resting his head on her arm.

Ashley adjusted herself, wrapping an arm around him as she lay back. She could feel the steady rhythm of his breathing, and she couldn’t help but smile as his tail flame flickered softly at the foot of the bed.

“Y’know,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, “Today was awesome, and I’m glad I’ve got you with me.”

Mars didn’t respond with words. Instead, he shifted closer, his small, warm body pressing against hers. The sound of her heartbeat was steady and soothing, lulling him into a peaceful haze. Ashley closed her eyes, the weight of the day finally catching up to her. As sleep began to take over, she felt Mars nuzzle into her side, his soft growl fading into the quiet hum of the Pokémon Center.

The following morning, they woke up to the sunlight filtered through the thin curtains of their Pokémon Center room, spilling soft golden light onto the walls and floor. Ashley groaned as the brightness nudged her awake, turning over and pulling the blanket up over her face. Unfortunately for her, Mars was already wide awake.

The little Charmander sat at the edge of the bed, staring at her with an expression of quiet curiosity. He had been watching her sleep for a few minutes now, fascinated by how humans managed to look both peaceful and totally ridiculous at the same time. Her hair was sticking out in every direction, and her mouth hung open just slightly. Mars tilted his head, his tail flame flickering as he pondered the mystery of human sleeping habits.

Ashley mumbled something unintelligible and shifted again, her blanket sliding down to reveal her face. Mars leaned closer, his sharp claws clicking against the mattress as he sniffed at her.

“Ugh,” Ashley muttered, swatting lazily in his direction. “Mars, give me five more minutes.”

Mars, of course, had no intention of waiting. He let out a cheerful “Char!” and hopped onto her stomach, his weight pressing down just enough to make her eyes snap open.

“Alright, alright, I’m up!” Ashley groaned, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. She glared playfully at Mars, who sat proudly in her lap, looking far too pleased with himself. “You couldn’t just let me sleep, huh?”

Mars chirped in response, his tail swishing happily behind him.

Ashley shook her head, swinging her legs over the side of the bed and standing up with a stretch. “Okay, buddy. If I’m awake, you’re stuck dealing with my morning routine. Fair warning—it’s not pretty.”

Mars followed her eagerly as she shuffled over to the small bathroom. He watched as she splashed water onto her face, the cold making her gasp slightly. Next came the toothbrush, which seemed to fascinate Mars to no end. He tilted his head as Ashley squeezed toothpaste onto the bristles, his eyes narrowing as she began scrubbing her teeth.

“What?” she asked, her voice muffled as she talked around the toothbrush. “Never seen dental hygiene before?”

Mars barked a laugh, clearly amused by the ridiculous faces she was making in the mirror. Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn’t help smirking.

Once her teeth were clean, she moved on to her hair. Mars sat cross-legged on the floor, his tail flame flickering against the tiled walls as he watched her wrestle with a hairbrush.

“See, this is the difference between you and me,” Ashley said, pulling at a particularly stubborn knot. “You’ve got the perfect low-maintenance look. Me? I’ve gotta deal with all this nonsense.”

Mars snorted, leaning back on his hands as he watched her tame the wild mess atop her head. When she was finally satisfied, she tied her hair back and turned to him with a grin. “There. Not bad, huh?”

Mars gave her an approving “Char!” and stood up, ready for whatever came next.

“Alright, breakfast time,” Ashley announced, grabbing her bag and slinging it over her shoulder. She motioned for Mars to follow her as they headed down the hall toward the Pokémon Center cafeteria.

The smell of food hit them the moment they stepped inside, a mix of freshly cooked eggs, toast, and something that smelled suspiciously like roasted berries. Trainers and their Pokémon filled the room, chatting and laughing as they dug into their meals.

Ashley grabbed a tray and started scanning the options. “Let’s see... scrambled eggs for me, and for you…” She glanced down at Mars, who was practically vibrating with excitement as he sniffed the air.

“Char!” he barked, pointing toward a bowl of Pokémon food shaped like little flame symbols.

“Good choice,” Ashley said, grabbing the bowl and adding it to the tray. They found a small table near the window and sat down, Ashley sliding the bowl over to Mars.

“Dig in,” she said, picking up her fork.

Mars didn’t need to be told twice. He immediately dove into his food, chomping happily as his tail flame flickered in rhythm with his chewing. Ashley watched him for a moment, shaking her head with a fond smile.

“You’re like a walking garbage disposal,” she said, taking a bite of her eggs. “But at least you’re enjoying yourself.”

Mars glanced up, crumbs stuck to the corner of his mouth, and gave her a wide, toothy grin. Ashley snorted, covering her mouth to keep from spitting out her food.

As they ate, the room buzzed with energy. A pair of trainers at a nearby table were arguing about strategies for taking on Blaine’s gym, their voices rising and falling as they debated. A Bulbasaur sat obediently at their feet, as she watched the conversation unfold.

“Think we’ll be ready for Blaine?” Ashley asked, glancing down at Mars.

Mars looked up from his bowl, his eyes shining with determination. He puffed out his chest and let out a confident “Char!”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought,” Ashley said, smirking. “We’ll train a little more today, just to be safe. But honestly? I think we’ve got this.”

Mars nodded, his tail swishing happily as he polished off the last of his food.

Once their plates were empty, Ashley leaned back in her chair with a satisfied sigh. “Alright, breakfast is done. Time to get moving.” She reached down to pat Mars on the head, earning a cheerful chirp in response.

Together, they left the cafeteria, making their way to the back of the Pokémon Center, where a sprawling training ground spread out like a playground for trainers and Pokémon alike. The area was fenced in and dotted with equipment—dummies for practicing moves, hoops for agility drills, and plenty of open space for sparring. A handful of trainers and their Pokémon were already hard at work, their shouts and cheers mixing with the sounds of Pokémon cries and the occasional explosion of a particularly powerful move hitting its mark.

Ashley stretched her arms over her head as she surveyed the field, a grin spreading across her face. “Alright, Mars,” she said, glancing down at her partner. “Let’s get to it.”

Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing curiously behind him. “Char?” he asked, pointing a claw at her.

“Yeah, I said we,” Ashley replied, crouching down to his level. “You didn’t think I was just gonna stand around shouting orders, did you? That’s not my style. We’re in this together.”

Mars blinked at her, momentarily stunned. His previous experiences with humans didn’t include anything like this. Trainers were usually the ones yelling commands from the sidelines while their Pokémon did all the heavy lifting. But Ashley? She was already tying her hair back into a ponytail, looking like she was ready to jump into the thick of it.

Ashley smirked, clearly reading the disbelief on his face. “Of course I’m serious. What kind of trainer would I be if I didn’t pull my weight? Besides, you’re not the only one who needs to get stronger. Now, come on!” She jabbed a thumb toward the dirt track circling the training field.

Mars’s eyes lit up with excitement, and he let out a bark of laughter. “Char-char!” he cheered, bounding after her as she started jogging toward the track.

The two of them lined up at the edge, Ashley squaring her shoulders like she was about to take on the Pokémon League itself. “Alright, first up—laps,” she said, glancing down at Mars. “Think you can keep up?”

Mars narrowed his eyes at her, his competitive streak kicking in. He crouched slightly, his claws digging into the dirt in preparation for a sprint.

Ashley grinned. “Alright, tough guy. On your mark... get set... go!”

They took off, kicking up small clouds of dust as they rounded the track. Ashley’s sneakers thudded steadily against the ground, her ponytail swaying with every stride. Mars, on the other hand, was practically a blur of orange, his tail flame streaking behind him like a comet.

“Hey!” Ashley called out, laughing as she tried to match his pace. “You’re supposed to run with me, not leave me in the dust!”

Mars glanced over his shoulder, his eyes twinkling mischievously. He slowed down just enough to let her catch up, his tail swishing playfully.

“Show-off,” Ashley muttered, though her grin betrayed her amusement.

By the time they finished their laps, both trainer and Pokémon were panting, their breaths coming in short gasps. Ashley bent over, hands on her knees, while Mars flopped onto the grass, his tail flame flickering softly as he caught his breath.

“Not bad,” Ashley said between breaths, giving Mars a thumbs-up. “But we’re just getting started.”

Mars perked up at that, his energy returning almost instantly. He hopped to his feet, his claws clicking against the ground as he waited for her next move.

Ashley walked over to a set of cones arranged in a zigzag pattern. “Alright, agility drills next,” she said, motioning for Mars to follow her. She demonstrated by weaving through the cones, her movements quick but a little clumsy. “See? Easy peasy.”

Mars watched her with an expression that clearly said, You call that quick?

“Fine, your turn, hotshot,” Ashley challenged, stepping aside.

Mars darted forward, weaving through the cones with the precision of a trained Dodrio. His tail flame flickered with every turn, but he never so much as brushed a cone.

“Okay, okay, you win this round,” Ashley admitted, clapping as Mars finished with a flourish. “But let’s see how you do with core training. You’re not getting out of this one, buddy.”

They moved to a clear patch of grass, and Ashley immediately dropped into a plank position, her elbows digging into the dirt. “Alright, Mars. Match me. We’re holding this for thirty seconds.”

Mars stared at her, clearly confused. He crouched down, mimicking her position as best as his stubby arms would allow. His tail swished uncertainly behind him, the flame hovering just above the ground.

“Ready?” Ashley asked, her voice strained as she held herself steady. “Three, two, one... hold!”

Mars gritted his teeth, his claws digging into the dirt as he held his position. His muscles burned, but he wasn’t about to let Ashley outlast him.

“Not bad, Mars,” Ashley said, glancing over at him. “But let’s see if you can—oof—keep this up!”

Mars growled in determination, his tail flame flaring as he pushed through the discomfort. By the time Ashley called time, both of them collapsed onto their backs, staring up at the sky.

“Okay,” Ashley panted, her chest rising and falling as she caught her breath. “I might’ve underestimated how hard that would be.”

Mars barked a laugh, rolling onto his side to look at her. “Char!” he said, his tone teasing.

“Yeah, yeah, laugh it up,” Ashley muttered, sitting up and brushing the dirt off her hands. “But you gotta admit—that was kind of awesome.”

Mars nodded, his tail swishing happily as he stood up and stretched.

They spent the rest of the morning running through various drills, from practicing basic moves like Ember and Slash to working on agility and endurance. Ashley was right there beside Mars the whole time, cheering him on, teasing him when he got too cocky, and pushing herself just as hard.

By the time they finished, both trainer and Pokémon were sweaty, tired, and completely satisfied. Ashley flopped onto the grass, her arms spread wide as she stared up at the sky. “Alright, Mars,” she said, her voice light but tired. “I think we earned a break. What do you say?”

Mars plopped down beside her, his tail flame flickering steadily as he let out a contented “Char...”

Ashley reached over and ruffled his head, a wide grin spreading across her face. “Yeah, I had fun too.” Mars purred softly, leaning into her touch.

After lying on the grass for a while, letting the sun warm them and their breaths even out, Ashley sat up, brushing stray blades of grass off her vest. Mars, still sprawled on his back, lazily kicked his legs in the air, his tail flame swaying gently above the ground.

“Alright, Mars,” Ashley said, nudging him lightly with her foot. “Break’s over. We’ve got some serious planning to do.”

Mars rolled onto his stomach, blinking up at her with a curious tilt of his head. “Char?”

Ashley reached into her bag and pulled out a small case. Inside were several shiny discs, each labeled with neat numbers and letters. She spread them out on the grass in front of them like a fan, the metallic surfaces glinting in the sunlight.

“These,” she began, holding one up, “are TMs—Technical Machines. They’re basically pre-recorded moves that I can teach you.”

Mars leaned closer, sniffing one of the discs cautiously. His claws reached out to poke at it, but Ashley gently swatted his hand away. “Easy there, buddy. These aren’t snacks.”

Mars grumbled something under his breath, crossing his arms as his tail flicked in mild annoyance. Ashley laughed and held up a disc with a bold ‘90’ printed on its surface.

“Okay, so here’s the deal. I’ve been thinking about how we’re gonna build your move set, and I’ve got a plan. These TMs are gonna help, but we need to be smart about when and how we use them.” She paused, her expression turning a bit more serious. “Some of these moves are pretty advanced, though. Stuff like Protect and Hidden Power? Those are gonna take more power than you’ve got right now. We’ll save those for when you evolve into Charmeleon.”

At the mention of evolving, Mars’s eyes lit up, and he puffed out his chest proudly. “Char! Char-char!”

“Yeah, yeah, I know you’re excited,” Ashley said, ruffling his head fondly. “But let’s not rush it. You’ll get there when you’re ready. For now, let’s focus on what we can do with what we’ve got.”

Mars nodded, his expression growing more focused as he settled in to listen.

“Alright,” Ashley continued, picking up the first TM and holding it between her fingers. “First on the list is Double Team. It’s gonna be great for evasion. You know how sometimes you’re up against a Pokémon that’s faster or hits harder than you expect? Double Team will let you create illusions of yourself to confuse your opponent, which gives you time to dodge and counterattack. It’s sneaky, but it works.”

Mars’s eyes narrowed thoughtfully, and he mimicked the motion of stepping side to side, as if already imagining himself splitting into multiple copies. His tail flame flickered with excitement.

“Exactly,” Ashley said, nodding. “Now, after Double Team, we’ll work on teaching you Swift.” She held up the TM for it, turning it so the sun caught the metallic surface. “Swift’s a long-range attack that never misses. That’s a big deal, Mars. Sometimes your opponents will try to dodge everything you throw at them, but Swift? It locks on, no matter what. Plus, it’ll give us another ranged option to balance out Ember.”

Mars’s tail flame flared brightly as he let out an enthusiastic “Char!” He swiped at the air with his claws, miming a long-range attack with a dramatic flourish.

Ashley snorted, shaking her head. “Okay, settle down, show-off. We’re not done yet.” She reached for another disc, this one labeled Substitute. “Now, this one’s a little trickier. Substitute lets you create a decoy—basically a fake version of yourself that takes the hit instead of you. It’s great for buying time or setting up your next move.”

Mars leaned closer, his nose almost touching the disc as he stared at it intently. “Char?” he asked, tilting his head.

“I know it sounds a little weird,” Ashley admitted, setting the TM down. “But trust me, it’s a game-changer. If you’re up against someone who keeps hitting hard and fast, Substitute can give us the breathing room we need to figure out a counterattack.”

Mars scratched his head thoughtfully, then nodded, his tail swishing slowly as he processed everything she’d said.

“So,” Ashley said, clapping her hands together, “here’s the plan: We’ll teach you Double Team first. It’s a good starting point, and it’ll help you get used to thinking on your feet. Then we’ll move on to Swift, so you’ve got a guaranteed hit in your arsenal. Finally, we’ll tackle Substitute once you’re ready for something more advanced.”

Mars puffed out his chest again, his eyes blazing with determination. “Char-char!”

Ashley laughed, leaning back on her hands as she looked at him. “You’re really into this, huh?”

Mars nodded vigorously, his tail flame flaring brighter with each bob of his head.

“Good,” Ashley said, picking up the discs and carefully tucking them back into their case. “Because this is gonna take a lot of practice. You ready for that?”

Mars responded by hopping to his feet, his claws digging into the dirt as he barked an eager “Char!”

Ashley stood up as well, brushing the grass off her skirt. “Alright, then. Let’s get to work. No time like the present, right?”

Mars bounced in place, his tail swishing excitedly as they prepared to dive into their next challenge. Ashley pulled out the gray TM disc labeled Double Team, holding it up like it was a rare treasure. Her fingers brushed over the surface, and she turned it toward Mars with a grin. “Alright, buddy, this is it. First step on the road to being even more unstoppable.”

Mars tilted his head, his tail swishing curiously as he eyed the disc. “Char?” he asked, unsure what exactly she planned to do with it.

Ashley crouched down in front of him, her tone patient but teasing. “This,” she said, holding the disc closer, “is where the magic happens. But don’t freak out when it feels a little weird, okay?”

Mars raised a skeptical eyebrow, leaning back slightly as she pressed the disc gently against his forehead. The moment it made contact, a strange, tingling sensation rushed through him. His eyes widened as he felt a flood of knowledge pouring into his mind—not in words, but in instincts and images. He could see himself moving faster, splitting into copies, darting around opponents like a flame in the wind.

Ashley pulled the disc away, tucking it back into her bag as she watched Mars process the experience. “Pretty wild, huh?” she asked, her grin widening when he shook his head as if to clear it.

Mars blinked up at her, his tail flicking behind him as he tried to put the new knowledge into practice. “Char?” he barked, ready for instructions.

“Alright, let’s give it a shot,” Ashley said, stepping back to give him some space. “Mars, use Double Team!”

Mars crouched low, focusing his energy as he moved. His body blurred for a moment, and then—just as he’d seen in his mind—two shimmering copies of himself appeared on either side. They moved in sync with him, tails swishing in unison, their flames flickering as brightly as the real one.

Ashley let out a low whistle, clapping her hands once. “Nice! Look at you, nailing it on the first try!”

Mars stood tall, his chest puffed out proudly. But before he could bask in the glory too long, Ashley held up a hand. “Hold on, we’re not done yet. Let’s see if those copies can keep up when you attack.”

Mars nodded, his tail flicking with determination. Ashley pointed toward a small training dummy a few feet away. “Alright, Mars. Use Ember!”

Mars reared back, inhaling deeply as he prepared to unleash a small burst of flame. The copies mimicked his movements perfectly, their mouths opening as if they were about to launch fire of their own. But when the flames shot forward, only the real Mars and one of the copies managed to produce anything. The second copy fizzled out, disappearing with a faint shimmer.

Mars’s tail flame dimmed slightly as he stared at the results, his shoulders slumping. He turned to Ashley with a disappointed huff, his claws digging lightly into the dirt. “Char…”

Ashley walked over, crouching down to his level and placing a hand on his shoulder. “Hey, don’t look so bummed,” she said, her tone warm but firm. “That was awesome for a first try. Do you know how hard it is to even pull off Double Team right away? Most Pokémon need a ton of practice just to get those copies to look believable.”

Mars glanced up at her, his expression still unsure.

“Listen,” Ashley continued, giving his shoulder a light squeeze. “Here’s the thing about TMs—they don’t just magically make you perfect at a move. They give you the basics, sure, but mastery? That’s something you gotta earn. It’s all about training.”

Mars tilted his head, his tail flicking thoughtfully as he considered her words.

“Think of it this way,” Ashley said, tapping her temple. “The TM is like a teacher showing you how to ride a bike. They give you the tools, the push to get started, but you’re the one who has to keep pedaling. You’ll get there. Trust me.”

Mars straightened up slightly, his tail flame flickering brighter as he nodded.

“There’s the fire I like to see,” Ashley said, grinning as she stood up. “Now, let’s try again. Same move, same target. This time, focus on keeping all the copies in sync. Don’t just go through the motions—feel it.”

Mars crouched down again, his eyes narrowing as he locked onto the dummy. He took a deep breath, channeling the energy from before. His body blurred, and once again, two shimmering copies appeared on either side.

“Nice,” Ashley said, watching closely. “Now hit it with Ember!”

Mars inhaled sharply, the flames in his chest building as he launched a burst of fire toward the dummy. This time, both copies joined in, their movements perfectly in sync with his. The combined flames hit the target, leaving a faint scorch mark on the fabric.

“Yeah!” Ashley cheered, pumping her fist in the air. “That’s what I’m talking about! You’re killing it, Mars!”

Mars barked triumphantly, his tail flame blazing brightly as he turned back to her.

“See? What’d I tell you?” Ashley said, kneeling to meet his gaze. “A little practice, and you’re already crushing it. You’re gonna be unstoppable once we really start putting in the work.”

Mars puffed out his chest again, his confidence restored.

“Alright, let’s keep this momentum going,” Ashley said, standing up and gesturing toward the rest of the training grounds. “We’ve got a lot to cover, and I want to see how far we can push this move. Think you’re ready?”

Mars gave an enthusiastic “Char!” and bounded forward, his tail flame leaving a fiery trail in the air.

Ashley watched him with a grin, her hands on her hips. “That’s my boy,” she muttered, jogging after him. For both of them, the real work was just beginning—but neither of them would have it any other way.

The sun climbed high into the sky as Ashley and Mars worked through the day, the training grounds becoming their personal arena of sweat, grit, and fiery determination. By the time noon rolled around, they’d already cycled through a few rounds of drills, Mars practicing Double Team over and over until his movements blurred into a flickering dance of orange scales and glowing tail flames.

“Alright, Mars,” Ashley called, shielding her eyes with her hand as she stood on the edge of the field. “Let’s see if you can pull off five copies this time. Quick succession—no lag, no hiccups. Got it?”

Mars puffed out his chest, his eyes narrowing with focus. “Char!” he barked, planting his claws firmly into the dirt as he prepared to move.

Ashley crossed her arms, her grin turning sly. “I’m counting on you, buddy. But no pressure or anything. It’s only your first day.”

Mars shot her a side-eye glare, his tail flicking once behind him as if to say, Watch me.

With a deep breath, Mars crouched low, his body blurring as he darted to the left. A second Mars shimmered into existence beside him, then another, and another. In seconds, the real Mars stood flanked by four identical copies, all perfectly in sync. Their tails swayed in unison, the flames casting sharp shadows across the dirt.

“Five!” Ashley whooped, clapping her hands as she took a step closer. “Mars, that’s perfect! Look at you—you’re like your own little fire squad.”

Mars beamed, the copies mirroring his proud stance.

“Okay,” Ashley continued, rolling up her sleeves. “Now for the real test. We know you can make the copies, but can they keep up with your moves? Let’s see Ember.”

Mars let out a sharp bark of acknowledgment and reared back, his chest glowing faintly as he summoned the familiar warmth of his flames. He exhaled, and a volley of bright orange fireballs shot forward. The copies followed suit, each one launching their own fiery projectiles toward the row of training dummies set up a few feet away.

The combined attack hit its mark with satisfying thuds, leaving the dummies charred and smoking. Ashley let out an impressed whistle, her hands on her hips as she surveyed the damage.

“Okay, okay,” she said, a laugh slipping out. “Not gonna lie—that was kind of terrifying. If I didn’t know which one of you was the real deal, I’d probably run screaming.”

Mars let out a triumphant “Char-char!” his copies fading into wisps of light as he bounced on his toes, his tail flame flaring brightly.

Ashley held up a finger. “Alright, don’t get cocky yet. We’ve still got Slash and Smokescreen to work through. Think you’re up for it?”

Mars grinned, his claws flexing as he crouched low again, ready to start.

For the next few hours, they cycled through more drills, tweaking and perfecting each move until Mars’s copies moved like a seamless extension of himself. Ashley ran alongside him, shouting encouragements and occasionally teasing him when one of his Smokescreens came out a little too light or when one of his Slashes hit a tree stump instead of the intended target.

“Come on, Mars,” she called, pointing toward the largest dummy on the field. “You’re not gonna let that thing beat you, are you? Get those claws out and make it regret existing!”

Mars growled playfully, charging forward with his copies in tow. The dummies didn’t stand a chance as the group of Charmanders unleashed a flurry of glowing slashes, their synchronized attacks leaving deep gouges in the wood.

“Yeah! That’s what I’m talking about!” Ashley cheered, pumping her fist in the air. “Take that, you lifeless hunk of driftwood!”

By the time the sun began to dip toward the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Mars was a blur of practiced precision. He stood in the center of the field, his chest heaving but his eyes alight with energy as his fifth set of copies faded into glowing particles.

Ashley jogged over, a water bottle in hand, and knelt down beside him. “Here,” she said, holding it out. “You’ve earned it, champ.”

Mars gratefully took a long gulp, water dripping down his chin as he finished and handed the bottle back. “Char,” he said softly, his voice tired but satisfied.

Ashley grinned, leaning back on her hands as she looked out over the field. The training dummies were scorched, slashed, and covered in faint trails of smoke. The ground was littered with small craters from Ember attacks, and the air smelled faintly of ash and singed grass.

“You’ve come a long way today,” she said, glancing down at Mars. “Five copies, all using Ember, Slash, and Smokescreen like pros? That’s no joke, Mars. You’re killing it out here.”

Mars puffed out his chest, his tail flame flickering with renewed pride.

“Gotta love TMs,” Ashley said with a chuckle, stretching her arms over her head. “But honestly? This was all you, Mars. You put in the work, and it shows.”

Mars tilted his head, his expression softening as he looked up at her. “Char?”

Ashley reached down, ruffling the top of his head. “Yeah, I’m proud of you, too,” she said with a grin.

For a moment, the two of them sat there, soaking in the quiet of the evening as the other trainers began to pack up and leave. The air was cool now, the heat of the day fading with the setting sun, but the warmth of their bond was stronger than ever.

“Alright,” Ashley said finally, standing up and brushing the dirt off her pants. “Let’s head back to the Pokémon Center. You’ve earned a good meal and a soft bed.”

Mars hopped to his feet, his claws clicking against the ground as he followed her. His tail swayed behind him, its flame glowing like a tiny beacon in the fading light.

As they walked back toward the Pokémon Center, Ashley glanced down at her partner and smirked. “Y’know, Mars,” she said, nudging him lightly with her foot, “at this rate, Blaine’s gym isn’t gonna know what hit it.”

Mars barked a laugh, his flame flaring brightly as he bounded ahead, ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Chapter Text

Two weeks on Cinnabar Island had been a whirlwind. When Ashley first stepped off the ferry, she had been buzzing with excitement, ready to march straight into Blaine’s Gym and demand the legendary Fire-type master take her under his wing. But as the days passed, she realized that rushing in headfirst, full of bravado, wasn’t going to cut it. If she wanted to earn Blaine’s respect, she needed to prove she was worth his time.

And that meant training. Lots of training.

Ashley and Mars threw themselves into their routine with the kind of determination that turned heads. Each morning, they’d wake with the sun, their bodies still sore from the day before, and head out to the training grounds. Every evening, they’d stumble back to the Pokémon Center, their steps heavy but their spirits high, ready to collapse into bed and do it all over again the next day.

Now, as the two weeks wrapped up, Ashley sat cross-legged on the grass, scribbling notes in her battered journal. The pages were filled with messy handwriting, sketches of move techniques, and hastily scrawled plans. Mars lay sprawled out beside her, his tail flame burning softly as he gnawed lazily on a berry.

“Alright, let’s see,” Ashley muttered, tapping her pencil against her chin. “We’ve got Swift locked in. Double Team? Check. Substitute? Nailed it. Man, you’ve got to love TM’s!” She glanced at Mars, who perked up slightly at the mention of their progress.

Mars puffed out his chest proudly, tossing the berry core over his shoulder with a casual flick of his claw. “Char!”

“Yeah, yeah, don’t get too cocky,” Ashley teased, nudging him lightly with her foot. “We’re still not where we need to be. Ember’s solid, but it’s not hitting as hard as it could. And Slash? Don’t get me started. You keep overswinging like you’re trying to chop down a tree.”

Mars let out a defensive growl, crossing his arms as his tail flame flared indignantly.

“Oh, don’t give me that,” Ashley said, rolling her eyes. “You know I’m right. The move’s got power, but it’s all over the place. We’ve gotta get your aim tighter.”

Mars grumbled under his breath, but the determined glint in his eye betrayed his agreement.

“And then there’s Smokescreen,” Ashley continued, flipping to another page in her journal. “It’s good for buying time, but it’s not sticking around long enough to give us a real advantage. We’ve gotta figure out how to make it denser.”

Mars tilted his head thoughtfully, his claws idly scratching at the ground.

Ashley set her journal aside and leaned back on her hands, staring up at the sky. The sun was beginning to set, streaking the horizon with vibrant oranges and pinks that matched the fiery hue of Mars’s scales. “Two weeks,” she murmured, more to herself than to Mars. “That’s all it’s been. Feels like we’ve been at this forever.”

Mars let out a soft chirp of agreement, his tail flame flickering gently as he leaned against her leg.

“But you know what?” Ashley said, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “We’ve come a long way. Remember when you couldn’t even get two copies to stick during Double Team? Now you’re out here creating ten without breaking a sweat. That’s all you, Mars.”

Mars straightened up, his eyes shining with pride as he puffed out his chest again.

“And Swift?” Ashley added, reaching over to ruffle the top of his head. “You’re practically a sniper with that move now. Never misses. It’s kinda terrifying, honestly.”

Mars barked a laugh, his tail swishing behind him as if to say, What can I say? I’m awesome.

Ashley chuckled and stood up, brushing the grass off her pants. “But we’ve still got work to do,” she said, holding out a hand to Mars. “Blaine’s not gonna be impressed by half-baked moves. If we’re gonna ask him for mentorship, we’ve gotta show him we’re serious.”

Mars hopped to his feet, his tail flame flaring brightly as he let out an eager “Char!”

“Atta boy,” Ashley said, grabbing her bag and slinging it over her shoulder. “Let’s run through everything one more time before we call it a night. Same order as always—Double Team, Swift, Substitute, then the rest. Ready?”

Mars nodded, his claws flexing as he followed her to their usual training spot.

The next hour passed in a blur of movement and fire. Mars darted across the field, his copies appearing in quick, seamless flashes as he practiced Double Team. His Swift attacks cut through the air like golden streaks, hitting their targets dead-on every time. When it came to Substitute, he created a near-perfect decoy, using it to dodge a mock attack from Ashley, who hurled a practice ball toward him with more enthusiasm than accuracy.

“Nice!” Ashley called, shielding her eyes as the decoy faded into shimmering light. “You’re getting faster with that. Keep it up!”

But when they moved on to Ember, things got a little trickier. Mars’s flames were hot and fast, but they lacked the punch Ashley was looking for.

“C’mon, Mars,” she said, planting her hands on her hips. “You’ve got the fire—literally. You just need to focus it. Tighten the blast. Less of a scattershot, more of a flamethrower, you know?”

Mars growled softly, his claws digging into the dirt as he tried again. This time, the flames came out sharper, more concentrated, but it still wasn’t quite there.

“It’s progress,” Ashley said, giving him a thumbs-up. “We’ll keep at it.”

As the sky darkened and the stars began to peek out, Ashley and Mars finally called it a night. They walked back to the Pokémon Center together, tired but satisfied.

Ashley glanced down at her partner, her voice soft but firm. “We’re getting closer, Mars. I can feel it. Blaine’s gonna see how hard we’ve worked. And when he does? He won’t be able to say no.”

Mars looked up at her, his tail flame glowing brightly in the darkness, and gave a resolute “Char-char!”

For now, they still had a ways to go. But with each day, each practice session, they were building something stronger—something undeniable. The last week of training had been tough—no, grueling—but totally worth it. When the day to face Blaine finally came, the day started with the sun was shining brightly.

Ashley and Mars made their way toward the Cinnabar Island Gym, as the sea breeze ruffled her hair and sent a flicker through Mars’s tail flame. Every step they took felt lighter, more confident, like they were walking toward their first big milestone. Ashley’s fingers drummed against the strap of her bag as her mind replayed everything they’d worked on.

“This is it, Mars,” she said, glancing down at her partner. “All those hours we’ve spent busting our butts? They’re about to pay off. Blaine’s gonna see we mean business.”

Mars trotted beside her, his claws clicking against the pavement. His tail flame swayed with the rhythm of his steps, glowing brighter than usual. “Char-char!” he barked, puffing out his chest with pride.

Ashley laughed, giving him a thumbs-up. “That’s the spirit! But maybe don’t go setting the guy’s Gym on fire the second we walk in, okay? We’re here to impress him, not terrify him.”

Mars tilted his head innocently, his flame flickering in a way that was almost... mischievous.

“Yeah, sure, you’re totally trustworthy,” Ashley said with a smirk. “Just keep the pyrotechnics to a minimum until we’ve got his attention.”

The two of them rounded a corner, the gym finally coming into view. Ashley’s grin faltered slightly. It wasn’t what she’d expected. The large building was quiet—too quiet. The bright red-and-orange paint on the façade looked weathered, and the giant emblem above the entrance was faded from years of sun and salt air. There weren’t any trainers hanging around, no sounds of battle echoing from within, no buzz of excitement in the air.

Ashley slowed her pace, her stomach tightening as a flicker of unease crept in. “Uh… is it just me, or does this place look kinda… abandoned?”

Mars stopped beside her, his nose twitching as he sniffed the air. He glanced around, his expression curious but not alarmed.

“Maybe it’s just a slow day,” Ashley said, though she didn’t sound convinced. She pushed open the heavy double doors and stepped inside.

The gym was empty. The air inside was cool and still, the faint smell of scorched rock lingering like a ghost of battles past. The floor was cracked in places, and patches of ash clung stubbornly to the walls. Ashley’s footsteps echoed as she walked further in, her voice breaking the silence.

“Hello?” she called, her voice bouncing off the stone walls. “Anyone here?”

Mars followed close behind, his tail flame casting a warm glow that danced across the shadowed corners of the room.

Nothing. No response. No Blaine.

Ashley’s shoulders slumped as a sinking feeling settled in her chest. She turned to Mars, her voice quieter now. “Okay, this is weird, right? Like, super weird?”

Mars nodded, his claws tapping nervously against the floor.

Ashley turned on her heel and made her way back to the Pokémon Center, her pace quicker now, her thoughts racing. Nurse Joy would know what was going on. She had to.

The familiar ding of the Pokémon Center’s sliding doors felt unusually loud as Ashley stormed inside. She approached the counter, her hands gripping the edge as she leaned forward. “Nurse Joy, what’s going on with the Cinnabar Gym? It’s… empty.”

Nurse Joy looked up from her clipboard, her kind face tinged with sympathy. “Oh, dear. You must be one of the trainers hoping to challenge Blaine.”

“Yeah,” Ashley said, her brows furrowing. “I’ve been training for two weeks for this. Why is it closed? Did something happen?”

Nurse Joy sighed, setting her clipboard down as she folded her hands on the counter. “The gym has been closed for a while now. Blaine has stepped away from accepting challengers. He wasn’t happy with how things were going.”

Ashley blinked, trying to process the words. “What do you mean, stepped away? He’s just… done? Why?”

Nurse Joy’s expression softened further. “It’s complicated. Blaine wasn’t pleased with how the island has become more of a tourist destination than a serious training ground. Many of the trainers coming to challenge him weren’t doing it because they wanted to grow or prove themselves. They were just ticking it off their list, like another photo op for their vacation albums. It didn’t sit well with him. Blaine’s someone who values passion, dedication, and respect for Pokémon.”

Ashley’s hands dropped to her sides as the words sank in. “So… he closed the gym because he didn’t want to deal with a bunch of tourists?”

Nurse Joy nodded. “That, and there were fewer trainers coming here with genuine intent. Over time, it just became too much. He decided to take a step back and focus on his own research.”

Ashley slumped against the counter, her shoulders drooping like someone had just let all the air out of her. “Great,” she muttered. “I’ve been busting my butt for two weeks, and for what? A locked door and an empty gym?”

Mars, who had been standing quietly by her side, let out a soft chirp and tugged gently at her sleeve.

Ashley glanced down at him, her frustration softening just a little. “I know, Mars. I’m just… I don’t know. I thought we were ready to prove ourselves, y’know? To show Blaine we’re serious.”

Nurse Joy gave her a sympathetic smile. “Don’t be discouraged, Ashley. Blaine may not be taking challenges right now, but that doesn’t mean all your hard work was for nothing. If you truly want to get his attention, show him that you’re not like the others. Prove that your dedication is genuine.”

Ashley straightened up slightly, her fingers tapping against the counter as she considered the words. “And how am I supposed to do that if I can’t even find him?”

Nurse Joy hesitated for a moment before speaking again. “Blaine hasn’t left the island entirely. He has a private lab where he conducts his research. But…” She trailed off, her expression turning hesitant.

“But what?” Ashley pressed.

“He’s very selective about who he allows to visit,” Nurse Joy admitted. “If you go looking for him, you’ll need to be prepared to prove yourself in ways that go beyond battling. Blaine values creativity, strategy, and heart.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up, a spark of determination replacing the disappointment that had weighed her down moments ago. “Alright,” she said, nodding firmly. “If that’s what it takes, then that’s what we’ll do. We didn’t come all this way to give up now.”

Mars let out a fiery bark of agreement, his tail flame flaring brightly as he hopped up beside her.

Nurse Joy smiled, her tone encouraging. “I have no doubt you’ll find a way to reach him. Just remember—Blaine isn’t looking for perfection. He’s looking for passion.”

Ashley turned to Mars, her grin returning as she ruffled his head. “You hear that, Mars? We’re gonna show him exactly what we’re made of. Let’s get back to work.”

Mars chirped enthusiastically, his tail swishing as the two of them headed back outside. Ashley didn’t know exactly how she was going to pull this off, but one thing was certain: she wasn’t giving up without a fight.

Her fingers drummed against the counter as she leaned toward Nurse Joy, her voice sharp with determination. “Alright, so where can I find him? You said he has a private lab, right?”

Nurse Joy hesitated, her gentle smile dipping slightly as she looked Ashley over. “It’s not that simple,” she said finally. “If you’re serious about meeting him, you’ll need to solve this.”

From under the counter, Nurse Joy pulled out a small piece of paper and slid it toward Ashley. Written on it was a riddle, the letters looping elegantly as if they had been carefully crafted just for this purpose:

“Where fire meets stone and secrets hide,
The heart of the island where legends reside.
A path once clear, now cloaked in flame,
Only the worthy will know my name.”

Ashley squinted at the riddle, tilting her head as she read it aloud under her breath. Her voice trailed off, and she frowned, tapping the paper with her finger. “Okay… dramatic much?” she muttered.

Mars stood beside her, craning his neck to peer at the paper. He sniffed it once, his nose crinkling in confusion. “Char?”

Nurse Joy chuckled softly. “Blaine has always been theatrical. He believes that riddles like this separate those who are determined from those who aren’t.”

Ashley smirked, folding the paper and tucking it into her pocket. “Lucky for him, I grew up with Professor Dak’s haikus. This? This is nothing.”

She turned to Mars, her grin widening. “The heart of the island where legends reside? That’s gotta be the volcano. Blaine’s hiding in the volcano, Mars!”

Mars’s eyes widened, and he let out an excited “Char-char!” bouncing on his toes.

Nurse Joy’s eyes twinkled as she nodded. “You’re a sharp one. If you head toward the base of the volcano, you might just find the path you’re looking for.”

“Thanks, Nurse Joy,” Ashley said, giving her a quick wave as she turned toward the door. “C’mon, Mars, we’ve got a legend to track down!”

Mars bolted after her, his claws clicking against the tiled floor as they burst through the Pokémon Center doors and into the sunlight.

The path leading to the volcano wasn’t exactly obvious. The dense greenery of the island’s outer edges thinned as they climbed higher, replaced by jagged black rocks and patches of hardened lava that gleamed faintly in the sun. Ashley wiped the sweat from her brow, adjusting her bag as they continued upward.

“Man,” she muttered, glancing back at Mars, who was bounding over the uneven terrain with ease. “Why do all these Fire-type geniuses have to live in the most dramatic places? What’s wrong with a nice beach house, huh?”

Mars let out a bark of laughter, his tail swishing as he leapt onto a boulder and waited for her to catch up.

“Oh, sure, you’re having a blast,” Ashley said, narrowing her eyes at him as she climbed. “Just wait till I make you carry my bag. Then we’ll see who’s laughing.”

The climb grew steeper as they neared the base of the volcano. The air became hotter, thicker, each breath tinged with the faint metallic scent of sulfur. Ashley slowed her pace, her hand resting on her knee as she looked around for any sign of a trail.

“Okay,” she muttered, pulling the riddle out of her pocket and scanning it again. “‘A path once clear, now cloaked in flame…’ That’s not vague at all.”

Mars tilted his head, his sharp eyes scanning the rocky terrain. Suddenly, he let out a sharp “Char!” and pointed with one claw toward a narrow gap in the rocks up ahead.

Ashley followed his gaze and squinted. At first, it just looked like another pile of boulders, but as she stepped closer, she noticed something strange—a faint shimmer in the air, like heat waves rising from the ground.

“Good eye, Mars,” she said, crouching down to inspect the gap. “This has gotta be it.”

She reached out tentatively, her fingers brushing against the shimmering air. It was warm—warmer than it should have been—but it wasn’t burning. She pulled her hand back and glanced at Mars. “You ready for this?”

Mars nodded, his tail flame glowing brightly as he stepped up beside her.

Together, they squeezed through the narrow gap, emerging on the other side into a narrow, winding path carved into the volcanic rock. The heat was more intense here, and the walls of the path were lined with jagged cracks that glowed faintly with molten light.

“Okay,” Ashley said, taking a deep breath and glancing around. “This is definitely the right place. No one builds something this dramatic without it leading somewhere cool.”

Mars barked in agreement, his claws clicking against the stone as they continued forward.

As they walked, the path began to twist and turn, leading them deeper into the volcano. The faint hum of the island’s natural heat filled the air, and every so often, a gust of warm wind would blow through, carrying with it the scent of ash and stone.

Ashley glanced at Mars, her voice steady but laced with excitement. “You feeling this, Mars? This whole vibe? It’s like something out of a movie.”

Mars nodded, his tail swishing as he let out an eager “Char!”

The path eventually widened into a small clearing, the walls of the volcano towering around them like the ribs of some ancient beast. In the center of the clearing was a single pedestal, its surface smooth and polished, with a small, glowing insignia carved into it—a flame.

Ashley stepped forward, her eyes narrowing as she studied the pedestal. “What is this, some kind of test?” she muttered.

Mars sniffed the air, his claws tapping nervously as he moved closer to her side.

Ashley reached out cautiously, her hand hovering over the pedestal. The moment her fingers touched the surface, the glow intensified, and a low rumble echoed through the clearing.

Mars stepped in front of her protectively, his tail flame flaring as he growled softly.

“Relax, Mars,” Ashley said, her voice steady despite the sudden noise. “I think this is a good sign. Blaine’s probably watching us right now, laughing at how dramatic this whole setup is.”

Mars shot her a look that clearly said, You better be right about this.

Ashley smirked, adjusting her hat as she took a step back. “Alright, Blaine,” she called, her voice echoing off the walls. “We’re here. What’s next?”

The rumbling stopped, and the clearing fell silent again. Ashley’s heart raced as she glanced at Mars, who stood poised and ready for anything.

They didn’t know what was coming, but one thing was clear—they were getting closer.

Ashley and Mars had been navigating the narrow, twisting paths along the base of the volcano for what felt like ages. The air was thick with heat, the ground underfoot warm enough to make every step feel like walking on sunbaked stone. Ashley wiped a line of sweat from her forehead with the back of her hand, glancing down at Mars, who was soldiering on with his usual fiery determination.

“Alright, Mars, keep your eyes open,” Ashley said, scanning the jagged rocks for any hint of a hidden entrance. “Blaine’s gotta be around here somewhere. I swear if he’s got a secret door that’s camouflaged as lava, I’m gonna—”

She was cut off by the sudden sound of snarling and the clash of fire attacks echoing through the narrow valley. Ashley’s head snapped up, her eyes narrowing as she turned in the direction of the commotion. “You hear that?”

Mars growled softly, his tail flame flaring as he nodded. “Char.”

“Let’s go,” Ashley said, already moving toward the noise. They raced up a small incline, ducking under an outcropping of volcanic rock and skidding to a stop when they saw what was happening.

A group of three Magby had surrounded a single Growlithe, their stubby arms raised as they hurled small embers at the trapped Fire-type. The Growlithe stood its ground, fur bristling, but it was clearly outnumbered. Ashley noticed immediately that despite being under attack, the Growlithe wasn’t showing signs of burns or pain. Flash Fire, she realized. That’s the only reason it’s still standing.

Mars growled beside her, ready to charge in, but Ashley held up a hand. “Wait,” she whispered. “We need a plan. We’re not just diving in headfirst.” She eyed the Magby, who were closing in, clearly unaware of the new arrivals.

Ashley’s eyes darted to Mars. “Smokescreen, now. Let’s give that Growlithe some cover.”

Mars nodded and inhaled deeply before releasing a thick cloud of black smoke that spread rapidly across the clearing, swallowing up the combatants. The Growlithe let out a surprised yelp but didn’t move, clearly confused by the sudden turn of events.

“Hey!” Ashley shouted through the smoke. “Over here!” She waved her arm, trying to get the Growlithe’s attention.

The Growlithe turned toward the sound of her voice, its sharp eyes shining through the haze. It bolted in her direction, skidding to a stop beside her and Mars.

Ashley knelt down quickly, her voice calm but urgent. “It’s okay, we’ve got your back. Just hold on a bit longer.”

The Growlithe’s eyes met hers, its stance relaxing slightly as if it understood. Mars puffed out his chest beside it, his tail flame glowing brighter as he prepared for the next command.

“Alright, Mars,” Ashley said, standing back up. “Double Team. Let’s confuse those little flame-hurlers.”

Mars blurred into action, creating ten identical copies of himself that stood like a miniature army of Charmanders. The Magby were still hidden in the smokescreen, their confusion evident in the way their growls overlapped and bounced off the rocks. Ashley didn’t waste any time.

“Now, Swift!” she ordered.

Mars and his copies launched a barrage of glowing stars that cut through the smoke like knives, each one slicing through the air with deadly accuracy. The Magby let out surprised cries as they were pelted by the attack, their outlines just barely visible through the thinning smoke.

The Growlithe let out a low, warning growl, then turned its head to Ashley and Mars, clearly itching to contribute.

Ashley smirked. “Your turn, Growlithe. Let’s send them running.”

As if it had been waiting for permission, the Growlithe drew in a deep breath and let out a powerful Roar. The sound echoed off the rocks, an intimidating wave of force that washed over the battlefield. The Magby froze for a split second before turning tail and scrambling away, their squeals fading as they retreated into the shadows.

Ashley let out a sigh of relief, dropping her hands to her knees as the adrenaline began to fade. “Nice teamwork, guys.”

Mars hopped forward, his copies vanishing as he puffed out his chest in triumph. The Growlithe stepped forward cautiously, its fur still bristling as it looked between Ashley and Mars. However, the trio’s brief victory over the Magby was cut short when the Growlithe swayed on its feet, its legs wobbling before it crumpled to the ground with a soft whimper. Ashley’s heart skipped a beat.

“Growlithe!” she cried, rushing to its side. She dropped to her knees, gently cradling the Fire-type in her arms. Its breathing was shallow, its body trembling despite the intense heat around them.

Mars crouched beside her, his claws fidgeting anxiously as his tail flame flickered in worry. “Char? Char!”

“I don’t know, buddy,” Ashley said, her voice shaky as she pressed a hand to Growlithe’s side. “I think it overexerted itself. That Roar must’ve taken everything it had.”

Before she could fully spiral into panic, the sound of hoofbeats echoed through the clearing. Ashley’s head shot up, her eyes widening as a Rapidash emerged from the shadows, its fiery mane glowing like molten gold. On its back sat an old man with a sharp gaze and a bald head, partially hidden by dark sunglasses. His white lab coat fluttered behind him like a cape, giving him an almost otherworldly presence.

“Well, well,” the man said, his voice deep and gruff but carrying a hint of amusement. “Looks like you’ve had a bit of excitement.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped. “Wait, are you—”

“Blaine,” he said, dismounting Rapidash with surprising agility for someone his age. He strode over to her, his piercing eyes scanning the scene. “And you must be the trainer Nurse Joy mentioned. The one who’s been stirring up all this noise on the island.”

Ashley blinked, still holding the weakened Growlithe. “Uh, yeah, that’s me. Ashley.” She paused, glancing between Blaine and the Rapidash, whose flames flickered gently as it nuzzled its trainer’s shoulder. “Not that I’m not grateful you showed up, but... how did you find us?”

Blaine smirked, adjusting his sunglasses. “You don’t live near a volcano without keeping tabs on what’s going on around it. The moment you entered my secret passage, I had my cameras on you. I was not expecting wild Pokémon to have sneaked in as well. Or for them to gang up on this fella.” His tone turned serious as his gaze dropped to the Growlithe in her arms. “But enough chit-chat. That pup needs help. Follow me.”

He turned on his heel and swung himself back onto Rapidash in one smooth motion. “The gym’s this way. Try to keep up.”

Ashley scrambled to her feet, cradling the Growlithe carefully as she nodded to Mars. “C’mon, Mars. Let’s go!”

Mars barked and fell into step beside her as they followed Blaine’s Rapidash through a winding path that seemed to appear out of nowhere. The heat intensified the closer they got to their destination, but Ashley barely noticed, too focused on the Pokémon in her arms.

“Hang in there, Growlithe,” she whispered, her voice soft but steady. “We’ve got you.”

The lab, hidden in a cave nestled near the volcano’s base, was nothing like the abandoned building Ashley had seen earlier. This one was alive with heat and light, its walls glowing faintly from veins of molten lava running through the rock. The air was thick and warm, but not stifling, and the room was filled with the faint hum of machinery.

Blaine dismounted Rapidash, giving it a pat on the neck before turning to Ashley. “Over here,” he said, motioning toward a large table set against the far wall.

Ashley hurried over, gently laying Growlithe down on the table. Blaine moved with practiced ease, pulling out a small device that looked like a scanner and passing it over the Pokémon.

“It’s nothing serious,” he said after a moment, his voice calm. “Just exhaustion. A little rest and hydration, and it’ll be good as new.”

Relief flooded Ashley’s chest as she let out a shaky breath. “Thank Arceus,” she muttered, running a hand through her hair.

Blaine produced a small vial from a nearby cabinet, pouring its contents into a bowl of water before setting it beside Growlithe. “This will help replenish its energy. Give it a moment.”

As the Growlithe lapped at the water weakly, its tail began to wag faintly. Ashley smiled, leaning down to stroke its fur. “You’re a tough little guy, aren’t you?”

The Growlithe looked up at her, its eyes softening as it let out a low, appreciative whine. Then, to her surprise, it nuzzled against her hand before licking her cheek.

Blaine watched the interaction with a knowing smirk. “Looks like you’ve made a friend for life, kid.”

Ashley straightened, wiping her cheek with her sleeve. “Huh?”

“That Growlithe,” Blaine said, nodding toward it. “It’s bonded with you. Earned its trust. There’s not much you can do about it now.” He paused, adjusting his sunglasses. “Unless you plan to walk away, but something tells me that’s not your style.”

Ashley glanced down at the Growlithe, who was now wagging its tail more energetically, its eyes full of gratitude as it looked up at her. “Walk away? No way.” She crouched down again, meeting its gaze. “What do you think, Growlithe? Want to stick with me?”

The Fire-type barked sharply, its ears perking up as it wagged its tail even harder.

“That’s a yes if I’ve ever heard one,” Blaine said with a chuckle.

Ashley grinned, pulling a Poké Ball from her bag. “Alright, buddy. Let’s make it official.”

She held the ball out toward the Growlithe, who bumped it with its nose without hesitation. The ball opened, and with a flash of light, the Growlithe disappeared inside. It wobbled once, twice, then clicked shut with a satisfying sound.

Ashley stared at the ball in her hand for a moment, a sense of pride swelling in her chest. “Welcome to the team,” she said softly.

Mars barked in excitement, bouncing on his toes as his tail flame flared brightly.

Blaine crossed his arms, watching the scene unfold with a small smile. “You’ve got good instincts,” he said. “And now you’ve got a loyal partner to show for it. But don’t think that’s the end of the road. If you want to be a real trainer, the hard work starts here.”

Ashley stood, turning to Blaine with a determined look. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

She then smiled as she released the Poké Ball, and in a flash of light, Growlithe reappeared on the lab’s floor. Its tail wagged furiously as it barked and bounded toward Mars. The Charmander greeted it with an enthusiastic “Char!” before the two started circling each other in what could only be described as a playful standoff.

Mars puffed out his chest, his tail flame swishing dramatically as he crouched low in a playful stance. Growlithe responded with an eager bark, darting forward and nipping lightly at the air near Mars’s tail.

“Looks like you two are already best buds,” Ashley said, watching as the two Fire-types began chasing each other around in tight circles, their playful growls and chirps echoing through the lab.

Blaine, leaning casually against a nearby table, chuckled softly. “Fire-types tend to understand each other pretty quickly. They’re competitive by nature, but once they’ve shared a battle? That bond is almost unbreakable.”

Ashley knelt, her eyes following the two Pokémon as they tumbled across the floor. “Good thing they’re on the same team now,” she said with a grin.

Reaching into her bag, she pulled out her Pokédex, the screen lighting up as she aimed it at Growlithe. The device beeped cheerfully before reciting its entry:

“Growlithe, the Puppy Pokémon. Extremely loyal, it will fearlessly bark at any opponent to protect its trainer. It has a superb sense of smell and can sense the emotions of others.”

“Aw, buddy,” Ashley said, glancing at Growlithe, who paused its wrestling match with Mars just long enough to bark in acknowledgment. “You’re a little bodyguard, huh? No wonder you were holding your ground against those Magby.”

Mars took the opportunity to pounce, lightly tackling Growlithe, who yelped in surprise before wriggling free.

Ashley laughed, swiping through her Pokédex to pull up Growlithe’s stats. Her eyes scanned the screen as she read aloud. “Okay, let’s see here... Pokémon: Growlithe. Male. Ability: Flash Fire—already knew that one. Ooh, moves: Ember, Roar, Helping Hand, and Bite. Nice.”

Growlithe trotted over to her, his tail wagging proudly as if he understood every word. Mars followed, sitting beside him and giving Ashley an expectant look.

Ashley smirked, raising an eyebrow at the two of them. “What? You want me to tell you you’re awesome too, Mars? Fine. You’re both awesome.”

Satisfied, Mars puffed out his chest while Growlithe sat down and tilted his head, curious as Ashley continued reading.

“Wait, what’s this?” Ashley said, narrowing her eyes at the screen. “Hidden Ability: Justified?”

Blaine, who had been quietly observing, stepped forward. “Ah, Justified. That’s a rare one,” he said, his tone approving. “When attacked by a Dark-type move, Growlithe’s attack power increases. It’s a solid ability, especially if you know how to use it strategically.”

“Nice,” Ashley said, looking at Growlithe with a grin. “You’ve got some serious potential, buddy. We’re gonna make a great team.”

Growlithe barked happily, his tail thumping against the ground.

Ashley sat cross-legged on the floor, setting the Pokédex aside and looking up at the two Pokémon. “Alright, next order of business—you need a name. Mars here got his name on day one, and I’m not about to leave you hanging.”

Growlithe’s ears perked up as he stared at her expectantly.

“Okay, let’s brainstorm,” Ashley said, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “How about... Goofy?”

Growlithe immediately shook his head, his tail slowing to a stop.

“Alright, not a fan of the classics,” Ashley said, jotting the name down and crossing it out just as quickly. “What about Bolt? Or Snoopy?”

Another head shake.

“Hotshot? Inferno? Flame-o-rama?” she suggested, her tone turning more dramatic with each attempt.

Growlithe snorted, looking distinctly unimpressed.

Mars, meanwhile, was rolling on his back, laughing so hard his tail flame flickered erratically.

Ashley groaned, covering her face with her hands. “Man, you’re a tough critic,” she muttered before looking up again. “Okay, let’s change tactics. Mars’s name came from a God from an old civilization—God of War, specifically. You like the idea of something powerful like that?”

Growlithe tilted his head, considering the idea before giving a tentative bark.

“Alright, progress,” Ashley said, snapping her fingers. “So, how about Vulcan? God of Fire and the Forge. He was all about flames and strength and making cool stuff.”

Growlithe’s tail started wagging again, this time faster. He barked loudly, hopping up and licking Ashley’s face in approval.

“Vulcan it is,” Ashley said, laughing as she wiped her cheek. “Guess we’ve got our name.”

Mars barked in agreement, standing beside Growlithe—now Vulcan—and nudging him playfully with his head.

Blaine crossed his arms, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Vulcan’s a fitting name. Strong, dependable, and just a little fiery—just like him.”

Ashley grinned, standing up and brushing the dust off her knees. “That’s what I was going for. Alright, Vulcan,” she said, looking down at her newly-named partner. “Welcome to the team. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Vulcan barked enthusiastically, his tail wagging so hard it was a blur.

“Looks like he’s ready to go,” Blaine said, nodding approvingly. “But before you dive into any more training, you might want to take a moment to appreciate what you’ve built here. Two Fire-types, already working together seamlessly? That’s no small feat.”

Ashley glanced at Mars and Vulcan, who were now playfully sparring, their movements fluid and synchronized despite their brief time together.

“Yeah,” she said softly, her grin widening. “We’re gonna make a great team.” Ashley then turned away from Mars and Vulcan, who were playfully circling each other, and faced Blaine with a determined glint in her eye. She took a deep breath, steadying herself. “Fire Master Blaine,” she started, “I came to Cinnabar for a reason. I want you to mentor me.”

The words hung in the air for a moment, and Blaine raised an eyebrow, clearly caught off guard. He folded his arms, tilting his head slightly as if assessing her. “Mentor you?” he repeated slowly.

Ashley nodded firmly. “Yeah. Look, I know you don’t run the Gym anymore, but I did not come to Cinnabar Island just for a badge. I’m here because I want to start strong. My partner, Mars—” she gestured at the Charmander, who paused his play to stand a little straighter at her mention, “—he’s my first Pokémon. If I can build a solid foundation with him now, I’ll be ready for whatever comes next.”

Blaine rubbed his chin thoughtfully, his expression unreadable. “Interesting,” he murmured. “But I have to wonder—are you looking to specialize in Fire-types? After all, you’ve got two already.” He nodded toward Mars and Vulcan, who barked proudly in response.

Ashley shook her head, her tone earnest. “No, Vulcan was just a coincidence. He joined us because we helped each other back there. I’m not planning to specialize. I just figured if I wanted to get Mars off to the best start possible, learning from the Fire Master himself was the way to go.”

For a long moment, Blaine said nothing. His sharp eyes studied her, and Ashley couldn’t help but shift nervously under his intense gaze. Her fingers fidgeted with the strap of her bag, and she glanced down at Mars, who offered an encouraging “Char!”

“Alright,” Blaine said finally, his voice calm but deliberate. “I’ll admit, I didn’t expect that answer. Most trainers who seek me out are Fire specialists—or at least think they are. But you? You’re here because you’re thinking big picture. I respect that.”

Ashley let out a small breath of relief, but Blaine wasn’t done.

“Still,” he continued, his gaze narrowing slightly, “mentoring someone isn’t something I agree to lightly. It’s a commitment, even for a short time. Why should I take you on?”

Ashley’s heart thudded in her chest, but she stood her ground. “Because I’m serious about this. I don’t want shortcuts, and I’m not looking for an easy ride. I know I’ve got a lot to learn, and I’m willing to put in the work. I’ve been training Mars every day since I got him, and Vulcan already trusts me enough to join our team. I think I’ve got what it takes to keep up with you. I just need the chance to prove it.”

Blaine tilted his head, the corners of his mouth twitching into a faint smile. “You’re not lacking in confidence, I’ll give you that,” he said. He let out a low chuckle, folding his arms as he watched her. “Alright, kid. You’ve convinced me.”

Ashley’s eyes widened. “Wait, really?”

“Don’t make me repeat myself,” Blaine said, raising a hand to adjust his sunglasses. “But I’ve got one condition—you’ve got two weeks. That’s all I can spare before I head to Hoenn for a conference on fossils and Pokémon revival. If you’re not up for that, now’s the time to back out.”

Ashley’s grin spread across her face, her fists clenching in excitement. “Two weeks is perfect! That’s more than enough time to learn from you.”

Blaine smirked at her enthusiasm. “We’ll see. I don’t go easy on anyone I agree to mentor. If you’re serious about this, you’d better be ready to work harder than you ever have before.”

Mars let out an excited “Char-char!” hopping in place with his tail flame blazing brightly. Vulcan barked, wagging his tail as he bounded over to Ashley’s side.

Ashley knelt down, ruffling both of their heads as she laughed. “You hear that, guys? We’ve got two weeks with the Fire Master himself. Let’s make it count!”

The two Pokémon cheered alongside her, their enthusiasm filling the lab with a warm, vibrant energy.

Blaine watched the trio with an amused expression. “Alright, we’ll start tomorrow morning. Early. And I mean early. Be here at sunrise, ready to work.”

Ashley stood, her determination undeterred. “We’ll be here. You can count on it.”

“Good,” Blaine said, his tone firm but approving. “Now get some rest. You’re going to need it.”

Ashley gave him a quick nod before turning toward Mars and Vulcan. “Alright, team. Let’s head back to the Pokémon Center. We’ve got a big day tomorrow.”

The three of them walked toward the exit, their spirits high despite the exhaustion creeping into their muscles. As they stepped outside into the cooling evening air, Ashley looked down at her two Pokémon, her smile softening.

“Two weeks with Blaine,” she murmured. “This is it, guys. This is where we start building something amazing.”

Mars chirped softly, his tail flame glowing steadily in the twilight, while Vulcan barked in agreement, his eyes bright with trust and excitement.

Ashley adjusted her bag, her gaze shifting to the distant horizon where the last rays of sunlight faded into the sea. The road ahead was still uncertain, but with Mars and Vulcan by her side, she knew they could face whatever challenges came next.

Chapter Text

Training under Blaine was nothing like Ashley had expected. It wasn’t just hard—it was brutal. The lab inside the volcano wasn’t just a place for battling; it was a full-on training facility designed to push Fire-types and their trainers to their limits. Every corner was optimized for controlled intensity: lava channels lined the edges of the cavernous room, radiating heat that made every move feel like a workout. Metal training dummies, heat-resistant targets, and even a ring of fire for agility drills dotted the space.

From the moment Ashley stepped in with Mars and Vulcan, Blaine wasted no time throwing them into the deep end.

“Alright,” Blaine barked, his arms crossed as he surveyed the trio. “If we’re going to make something of you three in two weeks, there’s no time to waste. We’ll start with Vulcan. He’s got potential, but he’s got a lot of catching up to do if he’s going to keep up with that Charmander of yours.”

Ashley glanced at Vulcan, who stood at attention beside her. His tail wagged slightly, but his eyes were focused and determined.

“Let’s do it,” she said, adjusting her hat and kneeling down to ruffle Vulcan’s fur. “You ready to level up, buddy?”

Vulcan barked sharply, his tail flicking with excitement.

Blaine strode back and forth in front of Ashley and Vulcan, his hands clasped behind his back like a drill sergeant sizing up his recruits. The lab’s heat lent an extra edge to his words, the faint smell of molten rock in the air making every moment feel intense.

“Most trainers,” Blaine began, his voice sharp and deliberate, “think that throwing a TM at a Pokémon is enough. They slap the disc on, watch the little light show, and then—boom—they expect perfection.” He stopped pacing, turning to fix Ashley with a piercing stare. “You know what that gets you?”

Ashley paused mid-scribble, glancing up from her notebook. “Uh... a half-baked move?”

Blaine smirked. “Exactly. A Pokémon that can perform the move but doesn’t own it. And if your Pokémon doesn’t understand the move—really understand it—how can you expect them to use it effectively when it matters most?”

Ashley nodded furiously, her pencil scratching against the paper as she tried to keep up. “Okay, so how do we make Vulcan own it?”

“Intent,” Blaine said, his tone firm as he crossed his arms. “Your Pokémon needs to know what it’s creating and why. Substitute isn’t just some flashy trick—it’s survival. It’s about leaving something behind that’s convincing enough to take the heat, giving you the time you need to regroup or counterattack. If Vulcan’s just going through the motions, the decoy’s going to be weak, short-lived, and, frankly, useless.”

Vulcan tilted his head, his ears flicking as he listened closely.

Blaine crouched down to meet Growlithe’s gaze, pointing toward a large, metal training dummy in the center of the gym. “Alright, Growlithe. Picture this: that thing over there? It’s coming for you. Fast and hard.”

Vulcan’s hackles rose slightly, and he let out a low growl, his amber eyes narrowing as he locked onto the dummy.

“Good,” Blaine said, his tone low but encouraging. “Now here’s the catch—you’re not dodging. You’re not running. You’re leaving something behind to take the hit for you. That’s what Substitute is. It’s your escape route. Your shield. You’ve got to believe you’re making something strong enough to stand in for you.”

Ashley stepped back, watching as Blaine guided Vulcan through the mental steps. She’d never thought about TMs this way before—like they were tools, not shortcuts. It was as if Blaine was peeling back the layers of the move, showing her and Vulcan how it worked from the inside out.

“Alright,” Blaine said, his voice softening as he leaned closer to Vulcan. “You see it?”

Vulcan growled again, his muscles tensing as he kept his focus on the dummy.

“Good,” Blaine said, stepping back and motioning to Ashley. “Let him try.”

Ashley clutched her notebook tightly, feeling a surge of nervous energy. “Alright, Vulcan, you heard him,” she said, her voice steady but tinged with excitement. “Substitute!”

Vulcan crouched low, his fur bristling as he concentrated. For a moment, his body flickered faintly, a shimmer of light forming around him—but it quickly fizzled out, leaving him standing there, panting slightly.

Ashley frowned, but Blaine didn’t seem bothered. “Not bad for a first attempt,” he said, nodding approvingly. “But it’s not enough to want the move to happen. He’s got to commit to it.”

“Commit how?” Ashley asked, glancing between Blaine and Vulcan.

“Picture it,” Blaine said, gesturing toward the Growlithe. “He needs to see the Substitute in his mind. Every detail. The shape, the size, the feel of it standing there in his place. If it doesn’t exist in here—” he tapped the side of his temple, “—it won’t exist out here.”

Ashley crouched beside Vulcan, resting a hand on his back. “You hear that, buddy? We’ve gotta up our imagination game.”

Vulcan barked softly, his tail wagging faintly as he tilted his head at her.

“Let’s try again,” Blaine said, his voice calm but commanding. “And this time, I want you to believe it’s there.”

Vulcan crouched again, his eyes narrowing as he focused on the dummy. His fur bristled as he let out a sharp bark, and this time, the shimmering light began to take shape. A faint outline of a decoy appeared in front of him, flickering like a mirage but holding steady for a few moments before fading.

Ashley gasped, clapping her hands together. “Yes! That’s it!”

“It’s a start,” Blaine said, though his tone carried a note of approval. “He’s got the basics now. The rest is refinement.”

The rest of the day was spent refining that flicker into something solid. Blaine gave Vulcan pointers on how to hold the image longer, while Ashley cheered him on and scribbled notes like a madwoman. Mars even jumped in at one point, demonstrating his own Substitute with practiced ease, which seemed to fire Vulcan up even more.

By the time evening rolled around, Vulcan stood proudly in the center of the lab, a solid, glowing decoy standing beside him. The decoy’s features mirrored his perfectly, down to the fiery gleam in its eyes and the way its tail wagged slightly.

Ashley clapped so hard her palms stung, her grin stretching from ear to ear. “Nice work, Vulcan!” she called, running over to give him a high-five.

Vulcan barked happily, returning the gesture with a paw before bounding over to Mars, who gave him an approving nudge.

Blaine crossed his arms, a satisfied smirk on his face. “Not bad, kid,” he said, glancing at Ashley. “You and Vulcan make a good team. But don’t think for a second that you’ve mastered it yet. Substitute is a move you can always improve on. The stronger his confidence, the stronger his decoy will be.”

Ashley nodded, her notebook still clutched in one hand as she looked down at her panting but ecstatic Growlithe. “Got it. We’ll keep working on it. Right, Vulcan?”

Vulcan barked again, his tail wagging furiously as he looked up at her with shining eyes.

Blaine turned toward the lab’s exit, motioning for them to follow. “That’s enough for today. Get some rest—you’re going to need it for tomorrow.”

Ashley stood, slinging her notebook into her bag as she looked down at her Pokémon. “Hear that, guys? We’re just getting started.”

Mars and Vulcan chirped in unison, their energy still buzzing despite the long day of training. As they followed Blaine out of the gym, Ashley couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. Her team was growing stronger, and for the first time, she could see just how far they could go together.

The following day, the heat in the lab felt even more intense, as if the volcano itself knew they were about to push their limits again. Blaine didn’t waste any time. The moment Ashley and her team stepped onto the training floor, he gestured toward a series of targets arranged in a chaotic pattern across the room. Some were stationary, others rotated slowly, and a few zipped back and forth on tracks like hyperactive Voltorb.

“This move,” Blaine said, holding up a TM with a calm, practiced air, “is all about precision. Swift is famous for not missing, but that’s only half the equation. If your Pokémon’s energy is scattered, those stars are just as likely to hit the wrong target—or bounce back at you.”

Ashley tilted her head, her notebook already in hand. “Wait, so they don’t miss but could still hit the wrong thing?”

Blaine smirked, clearly enjoying the teachable moment. “Exactly. The stars will land somewhere, but it’s up to Vulcan to guide them to the right place. Control is everything.”

Vulcan barked, his tail wagging eagerly as he stepped forward, ready for the challenge.

“Alright, buddy, let’s see what you’ve got,” Ashley said, crouching down and ruffling his fur. “You ready to light this place up?”

Vulcan gave a sharp bark, his chest puffed out confidently.

Blaine handed the TM to Ashley, and with her guidance, Vulcan learned Swift in moments. The glowing stars flickered faintly around him as the knowledge of the move settled into his mind. He shook his fur out, looking excited but unsure.

“Let’s start simple,” Blaine said, stepping back and pointing to a stationary target in the center of the room. “Vulcan, aim for that one. Focus on the energy inside you—don’t just launch it. Guide it.”

Vulcan barked again, crouching low as the golden stars began to form around him. With a sharp bark, he launched the first volley. The stars shot forward, glowing brightly as they zoomed toward the target—but instead of a clean hit, they scattered wildly, bouncing off the target’s edge. One ricocheted off the wall and zipped past Blaine’s head, close enough to ruffle the edges of his lab coat.

Ashley winced, clutching her notebook tightly. “Uh, sorry about that,” she said, her voice sheepish.

Blaine didn’t flinch, calmly adjusting his sunglasses. “Not bad for a first try,” he said evenly, though there was a glimmer of amusement in his tone. “He’s got power, but no focus. Vulcan’s trying to brute-force it. That’s not going to work here.”

Ashley crouched down beside Vulcan, who looked a little dejected, his ears drooping. She scratched behind his ear and gave him an encouraging smile. “Hey, it’s okay. We’ve got this. You’re strong—we just need to dial it in. One step at a time, right?”

Vulcan’s ears perked up slightly, and he let out a determined bark.

Blaine nodded approvingly. “Good attitude. Let’s keep going.”

The next few hours were spent refining Vulcan’s Swift attack, and it was... a process. Blaine pushed him hard, running him through every type of target the lab had to offer. At first, the stars continued to scatter wildly, hitting multiple targets with no real pattern. But with each attempt, Vulcan grew a little more confident, his energy more controlled.

“Focus, Growlithe,” Blaine said as Vulcan prepared another attack. “Don’t think of the stars as separate from you. They’re an extension of your will. Where you look, they go.”

Ashley clapped her hands. “You hear that, Vulcan? Think of yourself as a star commander. You’re the boss—they’ve gotta follow your orders!”

Vulcan barked sharply, his tail wagging as he crouched low. This time, when he launched his attack, the stars were sharper, their movements more deliberate. Two hit the moving target dead center, while the third barely clipped it.

“That’s it!” Ashley cheered, pumping her fist in the air. “You’re getting it!”

Mars, who had been watching from the sidelines, stepped forward with a determined glint in his eye. He glanced at Ashley, then at Vulcan, before stepping into position beside the Growlithe.

“What’s up, Mars?” Ashley asked, tilting her head. “You wanna help?”

Mars nodded, letting out a firm “Char!”

Blaine raised an eyebrow but didn’t intervene. “Interesting. Let’s see what your Charmander’s got.”

Mars crouched low, his tail flame flaring brightly as he launched a volley of stars toward one of the rotating targets. Each one hit dead center, the golden light shimmering against the metal surface.

Ashley whistled, clearly impressed. “Okay, show-off. Save some brilliance for the rest of us.”

Mars gave a playful smirk, then turned to Vulcan, gesturing with his claws as if to say, Watch and learn.

Vulcan watched closely as Mars repeated the attack, this time focusing on a faster-moving target. The stars zipped through the air with precision, striking the target in rapid succession. Vulcan’s eyes narrowed, his competitive spirit kicking in.

“Alright, Vulcan,” Ashley said, crouching beside him. “You see how he’s doing it? The focus, the control? Let’s try that again.”

Vulcan barked sharply, his tail wagging as he squared his stance. This time, when the stars formed around him, they glowed brighter, their movements steadier. With a sharp bark, he launched them toward a rotating target. The stars zipped through the air, striking the target cleanly in a neat cluster.

“Boom! Nailed it!” Ashley shouted, throwing her hands up in triumph.

Vulcan barked excitedly, his tail wagging so hard it was practically a blur. Mars gave him an approving nod, nudging him lightly with his head.

Blaine adjusted his sunglasses, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Not bad,” he said, his tone calm but genuinely impressed. “He’s starting to get it. But don’t stop here. Keep refining it. The more control he has, the more versatile that move will be.”

By the end of the day, Vulcan’s Swift was sharp and precise. The lab’s targets were littered with scorch marks and faint scratches from the repeated volleys, but Ashley couldn’t have cared less.

She knelt down beside Vulcan, scratching behind his ears. “Look at you, hotshot,” she teased, her grin stretching from ear to ear. “You’ve got some serious skills now.”

Vulcan barked proudly, his tail wagging as he looked up at her with shining eyes. Mars stepped forward, nudging Vulcan playfully before standing beside him, their tails swishing in unison.

By the third day of Blaine’s intense training regimen, Vulcan was finally catching up to Mars’s skill level. Growlithe’s movements were sharper, his confidence stronger, and his ability to harness the energy from TMs was becoming second nature. Still, when Blaine announced that Double Team would be their next challenge, Ashley could feel Vulcan tense up slightly.

“It’s not just about making copies,” Blaine explained, his voice calm but deliberate as he stood in front of Ashley and her Pokémon. His gaze shifted between Vulcan and Mars, his sharp eyes carrying the weight of his experience. “It’s about selling the illusion. If your opponent can tell which one is the real you, you’ve already lost.”

Ashley furiously jotted down notes, her pencil scratching against the notebook as she glanced up. “So... it’s like acting?”

Blaine smirked, crossing his arms. “Exactly. Confidence, timing, and speed are key. Your Growlithe needs to believe in every copy he creates. If he hesitates, even for a second, the illusion falls apart.”

He turned to Vulcan, gesturing toward the center of the lab where the floor was marked with faint scorch marks from previous training sessions. “Alright, Growlithe. Show me what you’ve got.”

Vulcan stepped forward, his tail wagging slightly as he crouched into position. His amber eyes locked onto the target dummy ahead, his ears twitching as he focused. With a low growl, he leaped into action, his body blurring for a split second as faint flickers of light appeared beside him.

But the copies didn’t hold. They flickered weakly, out of sync with his movements, and disappeared almost as quickly as they formed. Vulcan stumbled slightly as he landed, his tail drooping in frustration.

“Don’t beat yourself up,” Ashley said quickly, stepping closer to him. She crouched down, giving him a reassuring pat on the head. “This one’s tricky, but you’ll get it. We just need to figure out what’s missing.”

Blaine nodded, his tone thoughtful as he addressed the Growlithe. “You’re hesitating. You’re trying to create the copies, but you don’t trust them to hold their own. Remember—they’re not just shadows. They’re reflections of you. Move like they’re all equally real.”

Vulcan barked softly, his ears perking up slightly at Blaine’s words.

Mars, who had been sitting off to the side, stood up and trotted over to join them. His tail flame swayed as he gave Vulcan a confident nod, then stepped forward to demonstrate.

“Alright, Charmander,” Blaine said, his tone carrying a hint of challenge. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Mars crouched low, his tail flame flaring brightly as he darted forward. In an instant, ten identical copies of him appeared, each moving in perfect unison. They circled the training dummy in a fluid, synchronized dance, their movements so seamless that even Ashley couldn’t tell which one was the real Mars.

“See that?” Ashley said, crouching beside Vulcan as Mars and his copies vanished in a flicker of light. “That’s the goal. Every copy needs to be just as convincing as the original. But don’t worry—you’ve got this.”

Vulcan growled softly, his tail wagging as he squared his shoulders and stepped forward again. This time, his movements were more deliberate, his focus sharper. He crouched low, his fur bristling as he tried again.

The light flickered around him, and this time, the copies held for a moment longer. They were still faint, still out of sync, but it was progress.

“Better,” Blaine said, his tone encouraging. “Now let’s try it again. Confidence, Growlithe. Don’t think—just move.”

The rest of the day was a blur of trial and error. Blaine’s voice rang out across the lab, guiding Vulcan through each attempt. “Faster!” “Hold the image!” “Move like you mean it!” Ashley cheered him on from the sidelines, her voice filled with encouragement as she clutched her notebook.

Mars stayed close, jumping in to demonstrate whenever Vulcan seemed stuck. His presence seemed to calm the Growlithe, and with each attempt, Vulcan’s copies grew stronger and more stable.

By mid-afternoon, Vulcan was finally starting to get the hang of it. His copies moved more fluidly, their shapes clearer and more convincing.

“Nice one, Vulcan!” Ashley called, clapping her hands as he created three identical clones that circled the target dummy. “You’re getting there!”

Vulcan barked happily, his tail wagging as he glanced back at Ashley. But his distraction caused the copies to flicker and vanish.

“Focus, Growlithe!” Blaine barked, his voice sharp but not unkind. “Your opponent won’t wait for you to admire your work.”

Ashley winced slightly but nodded. “He’s right, Vulcan. Let’s try it again—this time, no looking back. Stay in the zone.”

Vulcan huffed softly, shaking out his fur as he squared his stance once more.

By the time the sun began to set, Vulcan was a different Pokémon. His final attempt of the day was nearly flawless—five identical clones surrounded the target dummy, each moving with perfect synchronization. They darted left, then right, weaving through each other in a dizzying display of speed and precision.

Ashley leaped to her feet, her grin stretching from ear to ear. “Yes! That’s it!” she shouted, pumping her fist in the air. “Vulcan, you nailed it!”

Vulcan barked triumphantly, his tail wagging furiously as he bounded over to Ashley. She crouched down, wrapping her arms around him in a quick hug. “I knew you could do it,” she said, ruffling his fur.

Mars trotted over as well, giving Vulcan an approving nudge before the two began playfully sparring, their energy still buzzing from the day’s success.

Ashley sank to the gym floor, cross-legged, her notebook resting on her lap as she watched her two Fire-types wrestle and tumble in the background.

“Blaine,” she said, glancing over at the Fire Master, who was leaning against a nearby table, polishing his sunglasses. “These techniques you’re teaching us? They’re a goldmine. I can’t thank you enough.”

Blaine smirked, slipping his sunglasses back on with a casual shrug. “Don’t thank me yet, kid. We’re just getting started.”

Ashley grinned, glancing at Mars and Vulcan. “I don’t know,” she said lightly, her tone teasing but sincere. “If Vulcan can learn this much in three days, imagine what we can do in two weeks.”

Blaine’s smirk widened. “That’s the spirit. But don’t get comfortable—I’ve got a few surprises in store for you tomorrow.”

Ashley laughed, tapping her pencil against her notebook as she leaned back on her hands. “Bring it on. We’re ready for anything.”

The next phase of Blaine’s training was where the heat really turned up—literally. Fire-technique training wasn’t about flashy moves or raw power, as Ashley quickly learned. Blaine insisted on starting small, almost maddeningly so.

“You want to master Fire-type moves?” Blaine said, pacing in front of Mars and Vulcan with his hands clasped behind his back. “Then forget about power for now. Control is the foundation of every great Fire-type technique. Without it, your Pokémon’s flames are just chaos.”

Ashley stood off to the side, notebook in hand as she scribbled furiously. “Control over power,” she muttered, underlining the phrase twice. “Got it. So, where do we start?”

Blaine smirked and reached into a nearby box, pulling out a collection of small, unlit candles. “Here,” he said simply, placing them in a row on the lab’s floor.

Ashley blinked. “Candles? That’s it?”

“Patience, kid,” Blaine replied, setting up another row of candles a few feet away. “Your Charmander and Growlithe are still in their first evolutionary stages. They don’t have to worry about managing overwhelming amounts of power yet—but that doesn’t mean they don’t need precision. We’re starting small because if they can’t control a flame here, they’ll never manage moves like Fire Spin or Flamethrower later.”

Ashley nodded slowly, glancing down at Mars and Vulcan. “Alright, guys. You ready to light things up?”

Mars puffed out his chest, his tail flame swaying brightly as he stepped forward. Vulcan followed, his ears perked and his amber eyes fixed on the row of candles in front of him.

“Good,” Blaine said, standing back to observe. “Now, I want each of you to use Ember. The goal is simple: light the candle without melting it into a puddle of wax. Start small, controlled bursts.”

Mars and Vulcan exchanged a glance before crouching low, their tails flicking with anticipation.

“Alright, Mars, you’re up first,” Ashley said, motioning toward the closest candle. “Let’s show ‘em what you’ve got.”

Mars nodded, narrowing his eyes as he inhaled deeply. A tiny spark of flame formed in his mouth, glowing brighter as he released it in a short, sharp burst. The flame shot forward and struck the wick, instantly igniting the candle—but also reducing half of it to a dripping mess.

Ashley winced. “Uh... A+ for enthusiasm?”

Blaine raised an eyebrow, his expression calm but critical. “Too much force. He needs to focus on the size of the flame, not the speed. Go again.”

Mars looked slightly embarrassed, his tail flame flickering lower for a moment. Ashley crouched beside him, resting a hand on his back. “Hey, it’s alright. First try. We’ll get it.” She grinned at him. “Think of it like blowing out a match. You don’t need a gust—you just need the right touch.”

Mars perked up, his flame brightening as he nodded.

“Vulcan, you’re next,” Blaine said, motioning to the Growlithe. “Same instructions. Control, not power.”

Vulcan stepped forward, his claws clicking softly against the gym floor. He opened his mouth, a small flicker of flame forming at the back of his throat. When he released it, the ember arced through the air and hit the candle’s wick—but instead of igniting, it snuffed out in a puff of smoke.

Ashley bit her lip to stifle a laugh as Vulcan blinked at the unlit candle, tilting his head in confusion. “Well... that was definitely controlled,” she said, earning a soft growl from Vulcan, who looked determined to do better.

The hours that followed were filled with trial and error. Mars and Vulcan took turns, each attempt bringing them closer to the balance Blaine was pushing them toward. The first few hours were rough—Mars’s flames were either too strong, leaving melted stumps in their wake, or too weak, flickering out before they reached their target. Vulcan, on the other hand, struggled to generate enough heat to catch the wicks, his embers often falling short.

“Breathe, Growlithe,” Blaine instructed as Vulcan prepared for another attempt. “Your flame comes from within. Don’t force it. Let it flow naturally.”

Vulcan closed his eyes, his chest rising and falling as he steadied himself. This time, when he released the flame, it was steady and precise, igniting the wick without so much as a scorch mark on the wax.

“Yes!” Ashley cheered, throwing her arms up. “That’s what I’m talking about!”

Mars barked encouragingly, his tail flame swaying as he prepared for his turn.

“Focus, Charmander,” Blaine said as Mars stepped forward. “You’re close, but you’re still rushing. Slow it down.”

Mars growled softly, narrowing his eyes as he released a small burst of flame. It hit the wick perfectly, the candle flaring to life without any damage.

“Perfect!” Ashley exclaimed, clapping her hands.

As the days stretched on, Blaine’s training became more intricate and demanding, a carefully calculated progression that kept Ashley, Mars, and Vulcan constantly on their toes. What began with single candles lined neatly in a row quickly escalated to chaotic clusters of varying sizes and shapes, placed at unpredictable distances around the lab. Some candles were set close together, practically begging for a single wide burst of flame to light them all at once, while others were spaced far apart, requiring sharp, precise embers to hit their marks.

Blaine’s voice carried across the lab like a drill sergeant’s, sharp and unwavering. “Don’t get comfortable! Each flame needs to be deliberate. Every ember you release must have a purpose. If you’re just shooting blindly, you’re wasting energy—and in a battle, wasted energy can cost you the match.”

Mars, with his natural flair for intensity, tended to go too big, his embers flaring hot and fast but often overshooting their targets. More than once, a candle’s wax dripped into a melted puddle as Ashley called out encouragement from the sidelines. “Dial it back, Mars! It’s not a bonfire—you’re aiming for finesse!”

On the other hand, Vulcan, ever the methodical thinker, struggled with hesitation. His embers were often perfectly aimed but lacked the heat needed to catch the wick on the first try.

“Don’t second-guess yourself, Growlithe,” Blaine said, crouching down to meet Vulcan’s focused gaze. “Confidence. Fire is as much about instinct as it is control. Trust yourself, and the flames will follow.”

Ashley knelt beside him, scratching behind Vulcan’s ears as she added, “You’ve got this, buddy. Remember how you crushed those candles yesterday? You’re a natural!”

Vulcan barked softly, his tail swishing in tentative determination as he prepared for another attempt.

By the end of the week, the progress was undeniable. Mars’s embers, once wild and unrestrained, became tighter and more focused, his aim improving with each session. Vulcan’s hesitation melted away, replaced by a growing confidence that fueled his flames with just the right amount of heat and intensity.

Blaine began setting up moving targets—candles mounted on small, rotating platforms that spun at unpredictable speeds. The challenge forced Mars and Vulcan to think quickly, adjusting their timing and angles on the fly.

Mars nailed it first, his embers streaking through the air to hit three spinning wicks in rapid succession. Ashley threw her arms up in celebration. “That’s what I’m talking about, Mars! Nailed it!”

Vulcan, not to be outdone, narrowed his eyes and crouched low, releasing a controlled burst of flame that curved slightly mid-air, striking two of the spinning candles with precision.

Ashley gasped, clapping her hands. “Vulcan, did you just curve your ember? You’re a total pro!”

Blaine gave an approving nod, his arms crossed as he watched the duo. “Good. Now let’s see if you can sustain it.”

Blaine unveiled his next test: a tall, ornate candelabrum with six unlit candles spaced evenly around its edges. The sight alone was intimidating—this wasn’t about hitting single targets anymore. This was about endurance, control, and precision all rolled into one.

“This,” Blaine announced, gesturing toward the candelabrum, “is where you learn to maintain a steady output of flame. Fire Spin and any other sustained Fire-type moves demand more than just bursts of power. They require consistency. Without it, your flames will burn out before they’ve done any real damage.”

Ashley crouched between Mars and Vulcan, resting a hand on each of their backs. “Alright, guys. One shot. We’ve got this. Focus on what we’ve practiced—small, steady flames. No rushing, no second-guessing. Just let it flow.”

Mars was up first. He puffed out his chest, his tail flame glowing brightly as he prepared to strike. With a deep inhale, he released a stream of embers, each one curving toward a candle in turn. The first four lit up in rapid succession, but by the fifth, Mars faltered slightly, his stream flickering as he struggled to maintain the pace. He stumbled forward, releasing one last burst of energy to catch the final wick just in time.

“Not bad,” Blaine said, nodding approvingly. “But you’re losing focus near the end. You need to pace yourself. The goal isn’t to finish fast—it’s to finish strong.”

Ashley gave Mars an encouraging pat. “You’ll get it, buddy. That was awesome for a first try.”

Mars barked, his tail wagging as he stepped back to let Vulcan take his turn.

Vulcan inhaled deeply, his ears twitching as he locked onto the candelabrum. This time, his confidence was unmistakable. He released a steady ember, the flame weaving gracefully around the candles like a dancer. One by one, the wicks flared to life, each perfectly lit with just the right amount of heat.

“Yes!” Ashley shouted, springing to her feet as the final candle flickered to life. “That’s what I’m talking about! Vulcan, you crushed it!”

Mars barked in agreement, nudging Vulcan playfully with his head. The Growlithe wagged his tail, his tongue lolling out in a happy pant as Ashley crouched down to give him a hug.

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the volcanic lab, Ashley sat cross-legged on the floor, her notebook resting on her lap. Mars and Vulcan sparred playfully nearby, their tails swishing as they exchanged mock attacks.

“You’ve got a solid team,” Blaine said, his voice breaking the comfortable silence. He leaned against a nearby wall, adjusting his sunglasses as he spoke. “You should be proud of the progress they’ve made. I was not expecting them to learn Fire Spin that fast. I was only aiming for control this week.”

Ashley looked up at him, a grin spreading across her face. “I am. But honestly? I’m more excited about what’s next. If Vulcan and Mars can learn this much in one week, I can’t wait to see what they’ll look like by the end of two.”

Blaine chuckled, his smirk widening. “That’s the right attitude. But don’t think for a second that we’re done. This was just the warm-up. Next week, we’ll see if they’ve got what it takes to handle real heat.”

Ashley laughed, standing up and adjusting her hat. “Bring it on. We’re ready for whatever you’ve got.”

As she watched Mars and Vulcan tumble across the lab floor, their playful growls and sparks of flame lighting up the dim space, Ashley felt a swell of pride and excitement. They’d come a long way in a short time, and she knew the best was yet to come.

Chapter Text

The volcanic gym buzzed with activity, the thick, humid air rippling with heat waves rising from the lava channels carved into the gym floor. The sharp crackle of flames punctuated the occasional bark of Blaine’s Pokémon as they diligently oversaw the training of Ashley’s team. Magmar, with its molten aura shimmering in the intense light, barked gruff commands to Vulcan, while Rapidash stamped a hoof in approval as Mars scrambled up a rocky incline. Ninetales stood silently by, her nine tails moving hypnotically, her watchful eyes like molten gold.

Ashley sat across from Blaine at a sturdy wooden table pushed to the edge of the arena, the surface scattered with her open notebook, pencils, and a few diagrams Blaine had drawn earlier. The heat, while oppressive at first, had become a familiar companion over the last two weeks, and now Ashley barely noticed the sweat dripping from her brow. Her pencil scratched feverishly against the paper as Blaine spoke, his calm and deliberate tone cutting through the ambient noise of the lab.

“Fire-types thrive on adaptability,” Blaine began, leaning back slightly in his chair. “A battle isn’t just about power—it’s about using the resources around you. Terrain, weather, the psychology of your opponent... they all play a role in tipping the scales.” He reached out to tap the corner of one of Ashley’s diagrams. “Your Pokémon might have the strongest firepower on the field, but without strategy, it’s like throwing gasoline on a fire without knowing where the flames are going to spread.”

Ashley looked up, her gaze locking onto his as she nodded. “Got it. So, you’re saying I can’t just blast my way through every battle?”

Blaine smirked, his trademark sunglasses sliding down slightly as he gave her a knowing look. “That’s the rookie mistake, kid. Bigger isn’t always better. Fire is a tool. A weapon, sure, but also a sculptor. It can clear a forest or forge steel, depending on how you wield it. A smart Fire-type trainer understands control. That’s why we taught your team Sunny Day. It’s not just a move—it’s a game-changer.”

He leaned forward, gesturing with his hand for emphasis. “Sunny Day can amplify your firepower, weaken Water-type moves by reducing the moisture in the air, and even provide healing for Pokémon with abilities like Solar Power. It changes the battle environment to suit your strengths. But here’s the key—it’s not just about activating it. You need to learn to combine it with terrain advantages. If you’re battling in a desert or volcanic area, Sunny Day turns those places into fortresses for your Fire-types. But in a forest? You risk igniting everything around you, including yourself.”

Ashley’s pencil flew across the page as she jotted down notes, muttering under her breath. “Sunny Day... weather synergy... terrain effects... got it.”

“Good,” Blaine said with a nod, leaning back as he adjusted his sunglasses. “Speaking of control, take a look at your Growlithe.”

Ashley’s eyes followed his gesture to Vulcan, who was weaving through a series of flaming hoops set at varying heights and distances. Magmar stood nearby, its arms crossed as it observed Vulcan’s progress. Each hoop flickered with carefully calibrated flames, requiring Vulcan to leap with precision while maintaining his momentum. His paws barely skimmed the lab’s floor as he darted between the obstacles, his fur glinting in the fiery light.

“Good boy, Vulcan!” Ashley called, cupping her hands around her mouth. “You’ve got this!”

Vulcan’s ears twitched at her voice, but it no longer made him break focus. His muscles rippled as he sprang through the final hoop, skidding to a stop with an excited bark. Magmar gave a slow nod of approval before raising one arm and launching small, controlled bursts of Dark-type energy at him.

Ashley winced slightly as the dark energy struck Vulcan’s side, but the Growlithe didn’t falter. Instead, he braced himself, the gleam in his eyes growing sharper as he pushed forward through the assault.

“He’s got the makings of an excellent Arcanine,” Blaine said, leaning back in his chair as he watched Vulcan carefully. “This speed training is critical. Arcanine are known for their unmatched speed, but without control, it’s more of a liability than an advantage. These drills are building the foundation he’ll need to stay agile and focused, even at top speed.”

Ashley tilted her head, watching Vulcan push through another volley of dark energy. “Is that why Magmar’s using Dark-type moves? To unlock Justified?”

Blaine nodded, his expression thoughtful. “Exactly. Hidden Abilities like Justified aren’t just genetic traits—they’re psychological triggers. Vulcan needs to associate Dark-type moves with strength, not weakness. Every time that energy hits him, he’s learning to turn it into fuel for his next move. But it’s not just about exposure—it’s about mindset. He has to believe that every hit makes him stronger.”

Ashley frowned slightly, her pencil hovering above the page. “Do you think he’ll unlock it before the two weeks are up?”

Blaine tilted his head, his tone calm but cautious. “It’s possible. He’s close, but abilities like this can’t be rushed. It’s like forging steel—the right amount of heat and pressure will shape it, but push too hard or too fast, and it’ll crack.”

Ashley nodded, her gaze shifting to Mars, who was in the middle of a steep terrain drill. The Charmander clung to a rocky incline, his claws digging into the jagged surface as he climbed steadily upward. Rapidash stood at the base of the slope, her flames flickering softly as she watched Mars’s progress with a critical eye.

“Flexibility training,” Blaine explained, gesturing toward Mars. “If he wants to master moves like Dragon Rush one day, he needs to prepare his body now. That move requires a combination of power, precision, and balance—one misstep, and it’s useless. These drills are teaching him to maintain his footing in unstable terrain and control his momentum during high-speed attacks.”

Mars reached the top of the incline, his tail flame blazing like a torch against the rocky backdrop. He paused for a moment, puffing out his chest proudly before leaping down to start the climb again.

“Show-off,” Ashley muttered with a fond grin, shaking her head as she scribbled another note.

Blaine chuckled, his smirk widening. “He’s earned it. Your Charmander’s got natural talent, but talent only gets you so far. Training like this? That’s what separates good Pokémon from great ones.”

Ashley leaned back in her chair, her gaze flicking between her two Pokémon. “They’ve come a long way,” she murmured, more to herself than to Blaine. “But there’s still so much to learn.”

Blaine reached over and tapped the corner of her notebook, his tone shifting to something almost grandfatherly. “That’s the right mindset. A good trainer never stops learning. And trust me—these two? They’re only just getting started.”

Ashley flipped to a fresh page in her notebook, the crisp sound of the paper cutting through the background hum of the lab. Her pencil hovered above the page, ready to capture every word Blaine had to offer. “Speaking of realizing potential,” she began, glancing up at the Fire-type master, “how do I make the most of Sunny Day? I get that it boosts Fire moves, but what else can I do with it? There’s gotta be more to it than just stronger flames.”

Blaine leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his expression thoughtful and focused. “Sunny Day isn’t just a move,” he began, his tone carrying the weight of experience. “It’s a strategy. Think of it as a tactical shift in the battlefield—a way to bend the environment to your team’s advantage. Sure, it powers up Fire moves and weakens Water moves, but that’s only scratching the surface.”

Ashley’s pencil scratched across the page as she jotted down notes.

“Let’s break it down,” Blaine continued, gesturing animatedly. “First, we’ve got weather synergy. When the sun is shining, certain Grass-types benefit from abilities like Chlorophyll, which doubles their speed. This means your opponent could use Sunny Day against you if they have the right team composition. Always know who benefits and who doesn’t before you set it up.”

Ashley’s pencil paused mid-word as she frowned. “So, it’s not always an automatic win for Fire-types?”

“Exactly,” Blaine said, giving her a sharp nod. “It’s a double-edged sword if you’re not careful. But the advantages for Fire-types far outweigh the risks if you know what you’re doing. Moves like Solar Beam—normally a two-turn move—become instant under Sunny Day. That means your Grass-type opponents won’t need time to charge, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.”

Ashley wrote furiously, underlining instant Solar Beam three times.

“Now,” Blaine said, his voice picking up as he leaned back slightly, “what most trainers overlook is the interaction with abilities. Some Fire-types, like Charizard, have abilities like Solar Power. Under Sunny Day, this ability boosts their Special Attack, turning them into powerhouses—but there’s a catch.”

Ashley glanced up, her pencil poised. “The catch being...?”

Blaine smirked. “They take gradual damage while the sun’s out. It’s a trade-off—raw power in exchange for sustainability. If you’re not careful, your own weather condition can burn you out before you take down your opponent. That’s why timing is everything. You don’t want to set up Sunny Day too early, or you might run out of steam before the battle’s done.”

Ashley nodded slowly, chewing on the end of her pencil as she absorbed the information. “So, it’s all about timing and synergy. Knowing when to pull the trigger.”

“Exactly,” Blaine said, his tone carrying approval. “And don’t forget defensive interactions. Abilities like Dry Skin—found on some Water-types and even certain Grass-types—make them weaker under the sun. They’ll take damage every turn, so you can chip away at them without even lifting a finger. On the flip side, Pokémon with abilities like Harvest can use Sunny Day to regenerate berries, keeping themselves in the fight longer. Knowing your opponent’s team can make or break this strategy.”

Ashley scribbled furiously, her lips moving as she read her notes aloud to herself. “Weather synergy... Harvest, Solar Power, Dry Skin... Okay, got it. So, Sunny Day isn’t just for offense—it’s a chess move. One wrong play, and it could backfire.”

“Exactly,” Blaine said, his voice firm. He gestured toward the training arena, where Vulcan and Mars were sparring under the watchful eye of Ninetales. “That’s why I’ve been drilling them with Sunny Day. You’re not just training Fire-types—you’re building a team that can adapt to any situation. In the Indigo League, adaptability isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. You can’t brute-force your way to the top. You need to think three moves ahead.”

Ashley leaned back in her chair, watching as Mars launched a controlled ember at Vulcan, who dodged gracefully before countering with a quick burst of flames. The two Fire-types moved with an ease and synchronicity that made her chest swell with pride.

“Thanks, Blaine,” she said after a moment, her voice soft but sincere. “I’ve learned more in these two weeks than I ever thought possible.”

Blaine smirked, adjusting his sunglasses with a practiced flick of his fingers. “Don’t thank me yet, kid. You’ve still got a lot to learn. But you’re off to a good start.”

Ashley grinned, snapping her notebook shut as she stood. She clapped her hands together, the sound echoing faintly through the lab. “Alright, team!” she called, her voice carrying across the arena. “One more round, and then we’re calling it a day. Let’s finish strong!”

Mars and Vulcan barked in unison, their tails wagging as they squared off for one final sparring session. Mars’s tail flame burned bright as he darted forward, feinting left before launching a stream of controlled embers. Vulcan countered with a nimble dodge, his paws moving with practiced precision as he sent a carefully aimed ember back at his teammate.

Ashley watched them with a mix of pride and excitement, her mind racing with possibilities. Blaine’s lessons had opened up a world of strategies she hadn’t even considered before. The journey ahead was still long, but as she watched Mars and Vulcan push each other to new heights, she felt an unshakable confidence settle in her chest.

That evening, the walk to the Pokémon Center was a quiet one. The fading light of the Cinnabar Island sunset casting long shadows across the path. Ashley’s backpack jingled faintly with the sound of her Poké Balls, though Mars and Vulcan were out of their capsules, trotting happily by her side. Mars’s tail flame flickered brightly against the darkening sky, while Vulcan padded along with a confident spring in his step, his tongue lolling out in contentment.

“You guys were amazing today,” Ashley said, adjusting her hat as she looked down at her team. “Seriously, you’re both kicking butt and taking names. Blaine didn’t stand a chance against how cool we looked.”

Mars puffed out his chest, letting out a proud “Char!” Vulcan barked in agreement, nudging his trainer’s leg with his nose.

“Okay, okay, don’t let it go to your heads,” Ashley teased, reaching down to scratch behind Vulcan’s ears. “We’ve still got work to do tomorrow, so let’s save some of that swagger, huh?”

The Pokémon Center came into view, its soft glow welcoming them in the cool evening air. The automatic doors whooshed open as Ashley stepped inside, greeted by the familiar antiseptic-clean smell of the lobby. Nurse Joy stood behind the counter, giving her a warm smile as Ashley passed by with a wave.

Straight to her room, Ashley thought, her legs aching from a long day of training. “Alright, team, chow time!”

Once inside, Ashley flicked on the lights and dropped her bag on the neatly made bed. Mars immediately hopped onto the small rug in the corner that had become his makeshift perch, while Vulcan wagged his tail as he padded toward his food bowl.

Ashley crouched by her backpack, rummaging through it to pull out their dinner. She portioned out some specialized Fire-type Pokémon food, making sure to sprinkle a little extra protein powder on Vulcan’s portion. “For those gains,” she said with a smirk, setting the bowls down.

Mars and Vulcan dove in with gusto, their tails wagging as they ate. Ashley leaned back against the bed, watching them with a fond smile. “You guys make this whole trainer thing look easy,” she muttered, reaching over to pull out her PokéNav from her bag.

After a few bites of her own snack—a protein bar she barely tasted—Ashley stood and made her way to the small bathroom attached to her room. She tied her hair back loosely and splashed some water on her face, sighing at the refreshing coolness against her volcano-warmed skin.

“Okay, Ash,” she said to her reflection, grabbing her comb and pulling it through her hair. “One more day of killing it with Blaine, and then it’s off to whatever madness Kanto throws at us next.”

She had just finished tying her hair into a braid when her PokéNav buzzed on the countertop, the screen lighting up with a familiar caller ID: Mom & Dad.

Ashley grinned, swiping to answer the call. “Hey, guys!”

Her mom’s face filled the screen first, her warm smile lighting up the video. “Ashley! Oh, sweetie, it’s so good to see you!”

Her dad’s voice came from just off-screen, gruff but teasing. “You’ve got soot in your hair, kiddo. What’ve you been doing, rolling in the volcano?”

Ashley laughed, leaning against the counter. “I mean, practically. Training with Blaine is no joke. He’s the real deal.”

“We’re so proud of you,” her mom said, clasping her hands together. “Getting to train under Blaine is such an honor! And it sounds like you’re working so hard.”

“Of course I am!” Ashley replied, puffing out her chest dramatically. “You think I’d slack off with the Blaine watching me? Please. Vulcan and Mars are killing it too.”

As if on cue, Vulcan barked from the other room, his head poking around the corner to investigate the sound of Ashley’s voice.

“Oh, my goodness, is that Vulcan?” Delia gushed, leaning closer to the camera. “Ashley, bring him here! I want to see him!”

“Alright, alright,” Ashley said, chuckling as she waved Vulcan over. The Growlithe trotted into the bathroom, his ears perked and his tail wagging as he looked at the screen.

“Hi, sweet boy!” Delia cooed, her expression melting into adoration. “Look at those eyes—and his little nose! Oh, Ashley, he’s such a cutie!”

Vulcan barked happily, his tail wagging harder as Ashley scratched behind his ears. “Yeah, he’s pretty great,” Ashley admitted with a grin. “And he’s been working hard. Blaine’s putting him through the wringer, but he’s taking it like a champ.”

Her dad’s face appeared on the screen, his expression proud. “I hear you’ve been putting those TMs to good use. How’s the team shaping up?”

Ashley straightened up, her tone turning serious for a moment. “Really well, actually. Mars and Vulcan have both mastered Double Team, Swift, and Substitute. Not to mention, Fire Spin. And Blaine’s been teaching us how to use Sunny Day for battlefield control. It’s... a lot, but we’re learning so much.”

Her dad nodded, clearly impressed. “Good. Those TMs aren’t just for show, you know. They’re tools—ones I knew you’d figure out how to use. Keep at it, and you’ll be giving Blaine a run for his money in no time.”

Ashley grinned, the praise making her heart swell. “Thanks, Dad. We’re doing our best.”

Delia chimed in, her voice light and teasing. “And don’t forget to take care of yourself, young lady. No skipping meals or skimping on sleep, alright? Your Pokémon need you to be at your best too.”

“Got it, Mom,” Ashley said with a mock salute. “Eat, sleep, train, repeat. The Ashley Ketchum way of life.”

Her parents both laughed, and for a moment, the three of them just smiled at each other through the screen.

“Alright, we’ll let you get some rest,” her dad said finally, his voice softening. “But we’re proud of you, Ash. Keep up the good work—and don’t forget to call us once in a while.”

“Will do,” Ashley promised, her grin softening into something more heartfelt. “Love you guys.”

“Love you too!” her mom said brightly, while her dad gave a small nod of approval.

The call ended, leaving Ashley alone with her reflection in the mirror. She set the PokéNav down and looked at herself for a moment, the tired but satisfied face staring back at her.

“Alright,” she said, rolling her shoulders as she headed back into the room. Mars and Vulcan were already sprawled out on their respective spots, their tails flicking lazily as they dozed. Ashley smiled, grabbing a blanket and draping it over her bed before climbing in herself.

As she lay there, listening to the soft breathing of her team and the distant hum of the Pokémon Center, Ashley felt the weight of the day settle into her bones. Tomorrow would be another challenge, another step closer to her dreams—but for now, she was exactly where she needed to be.

When the final day of training finally dawned, it came with a bittersweet feeling. Ashley stood near the edge of the training arena, her arms crossed as she watched Mars and Vulcan spar lightly, their movements more refined than ever before. Despite the pride swelling in her chest, the thought of leaving Blaine’s mentorship brought a pang of sadness.

“You’re looking a little gloomy there, kid,” Blaine’s voice rang out, calm but laced with a teasing edge. He approached with his hands in his coat pockets, his signature smirk firmly in place.

Ashley turned toward him, adjusting her hat with a sheepish grin. “Can you blame me? It’s been two weeks of nonstop learning and leveling up, and now it’s over. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I’m excited to see what’s next, but... this has been amazing.”

Blaine gave a small chuckle, reaching up to adjust his sunglasses. “Tell you what,” he said, stopping a few feet away from her. “Why don’t we send you off with a bang? One last spar, trainer to trainer. Call it your final test.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up instantly, a wide grin spreading across her face. “Are you kidding me? Yes!” She turned toward Vulcan and Mars, clapping her hands. “You hear that, guys? We’ve got one more battle! Let’s make it count!”

Vulcan barked sharply, bounding over with his tail wagging furiously. Mars followed, his tail flame flickering with excitement.

“Alright,” Blaine said, taking a step back and pulling a Poké Ball from his coat pocket. “Let’s see what you and your Growlithe can do.”

The volcanic lab was alive with heat and energy as Ashley stood at one end of the battle arena, her hat tilted forward in anticipation. Across from her, Blaine adjusted his sunglasses with a casual smirk, a single Poké Ball spinning lazily in his hand. Mars and Vulcan were by Ashley’s side, both alert and eager, though Vulcan’s tail wagged furiously in excitement.

Ashley crouched down, resting a hand on Vulcan’s head. Her fingers ran through his thick fur, feeling the faint warmth radiating from him, the kind of heat that hinted at the fire burning inside. “You ready for this, buddy?” she asked, her voice steady but brimming with excitement. “One last battle with Blaine to show him what we’ve got.”

Vulcan barked sharply, the sound echoing through the lab. His amber eyes locked onto the arena ahead, blazing with a determination that mirrored her own. He lowered his stance, his claws scraping the ground as his tail wagged once, its flame flickering brighter.

Ashley grinned, standing up and adjusting her hat. Her finger shot forward, pointing directly at Blaine. “Alright, old man, let’s see what you’ve got!”

Blaine chuckled, shaking his head as he reached into his coat and pulled out a Poké Ball. “Don’t think I’m going to go easy on you just because it’s your last day,” he said, his smirk widening. With a flick of his wrist, he tossed the ball high into the air. “Vulpix, let’s show them how it’s done!”

The Poké Ball burst open with a flash of light, illuminating the lab for a brief moment. From the light emerged a sleek Vulpix, landing gracefully on all fours. Its six tails flicked elegantly, their tips glowing faintly as it let out a sharp, confident cry. The small Fire-type’s ruby eyes locked onto Vulcan, narrowing with fiery intensity.

“Looks like Vulpix means business,” Ashley muttered, her grin widening. She glanced down at Vulcan. “Alright, big guy, let’s give them a fight to remember.”

Blaine gave a quick nod toward his Pokémon, his voice sharp and commanding. “Vulpix, Fire Spin!”

Without hesitation, Vulpix opened its mouth, releasing a swirling vortex of flames that spiraled across the arena toward Vulcan. The flames roared to life, twisting and crackling as they encircled the Growlithe, creating a fiery prison that distorted the air with its searing heat.

Ashley didn’t flinch. Her lips curled into a confident smirk as she called out, “That won’t work, Vulcan has Flash Fire!”

The moment the flames touched Vulcan’s fur, they flickered and were absorbed instantly. Vulcan’s entire body glowed faintly with energy, the fire from Vulpix’s attack powering up his own internal flames. His tail flame roared brighter, casting sharp shadows across the arena. Vulcan barked triumphantly, shaking himself off as if the swirling inferno had been no more than a summer breeze.

Blaine’s eyebrows rose slightly above his sunglasses. “Good,” he said, his tone calm but impressed. “You’re using his ability to its fullest. But let’s see how you follow up.”

Ashley’s grin widened as she jabbed her finger toward Vulpix. “Vulcan, hit it with Ember!”

Vulcan planted his paws firmly on the ground, inhaling deeply. The energy from Flash Fire surged through him, channeling into the flames gathering in his throat. With a sharp exhale, he released a burst of embers that streaked through the air like glowing meteors.

The embers burned hotter and brighter than normal, leaving faint trails of light as they hurtled toward their target. Vulpix barely had time to react, letting out a sharp yelp as the attack struck it directly, the boosted flames singing its fur and forcing it to stagger back.

Ashley’s voice rang out across the gym, filled with pride and energy. “Nice shot, Vulcan! That’s what I’m talking about!” She pumped her fist in the air, her excitement contagious.

Vulcan barked again, his chest puffed out and his tail wagging in quick, sharp bursts. His amber eyes never left Vulpix, though, his focus locked on his opponent as he awaited the next move.

Blaine adjusted his sunglasses with a slight smirk, nodding as Vulpix recovered and shook itself off, its tails flicking sharply in irritation. “Not bad,” he said, his tone carrying a note of approval. “But don’t think this is over.”

Ashley’s eyes sparkled with determination as she raised her voice. “Vulcan, Double Team!” Vulcan darted to the side, his form blurring for a moment before splitting into multiple identical copies. The illusions spread out across the arena, moving in perfect unison.

“Vulpix, Fire Spin again—don’t give them an inch!” Blaine commanded and Vulpix responded instantly, unleashing another vortex of flames, this one more concentrated than before.

The fiery spiral surged across the battlefield, aiming to trap Vulcan once more. The flames of Fire Spin swirled through the battlefield, but they couldn’t distinguish the real Vulcan from his copies.

Ashley grinned, her eyes flicking toward Blaine. “What’s the matter? Can’t hit what you can’t see?”

Blaine chuckled, unfazed. “Cute. But tricks like that won’t work forever. Vulpix, clear the field!”

The flames intensified, sweeping across the arena and scattering the illusions like smoke. When the vortex subsided, the real Vulcan stood alone, his body low to the ground as he prepared for the next command.

Blaine’s smirk grew sharper as he crossed his arms. “Alright, Vulpix, time to change the game. Use Foul Play!”

Ashley’s heart skipped a beat as Vulpix darted forward, its movements swift and precise. The Dark-type move lashed out, striking Vulcan with a surprising force that sent him skidding across the arena floor. Vulcan let out a sharp growl, shaking his head as he steadied himself.

But something changed. Vulcan’s body glowed faintly as his stance grew stronger, his muscles tensing with newfound power. Ashley’s eyes widened as realization dawned on her. “Justified!” she shouted, her voice ringing with excitement. “Your Justified ability kicked in!”

Blaine’s expression shifted, his smirk softening into something more genuine. “Looks like that Dark-type move gave him a boost. You’ve got some real firepower now, kid. Let’s see if you know how to use it.”

Ashley clenched her fists, her voice steady and confident as she called out, “Vulcan, use Bite!”

Vulcan charged forward, his jaws glowing faintly with dark energy as he lunged at Vulpix. The boosted attack hit with incredible force, landing squarely on Vulpix and sending it tumbling across the floor.

The lab fell silent for a moment as the dust settled. Vulpix struggled to stand, its legs wobbling beneath it before it let out a soft whine and collapsed.

Ashley’s grin was wide and triumphant as she ran to Vulcan, dropping to her knees to wrap her arms around him. “You were amazing, buddy!” she said, her voice bubbling with pride. Vulcan barked happily, his tail wagging furiously as Mars ran over to join the celebration, clapping his claws together with a cheerful “Char!”

Blaine chuckled, his smirk as fiery as the heat in the lab. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a Poké Ball, tossing it high into the air with practiced ease, as he simultaneously recalled his fallen Vulpix. “Don’t think this is over! Ponyta, let’s show them how it’s done!”

The ball burst open in a brilliant flash of light, and a sleek Ponyta landed with a light thud, its fiery mane and tail flaring brightly. The elegant Pokémon tossed its head, letting out a sharp whinny as its hooves scraped against the arena floor. Its sharp, focused eyes locked onto Mars, who stood at Ashley’s side, his tail flame swaying in anticipation.

Ashley crouched slightly, glancing at her Charmander. “Mars, you’re up. Think you can handle this?” she asked with a grin, her tone teasing but confident.

Mars stepped forward, puffing out his chest as his tail flame flared in response. “Char!” he barked, his voice resolute.

“Good,” Ashley said, standing straight and pointing toward the center of the arena. “Let’s do this!”

Without waiting for instructions, Blaine snapped his fingers. “Ponyta, start with Agility!”

The fiery horse shimmered for a moment before bursting into motion, its movements a blur as it began circling Mars at breakneck speed. The sound of its hooves pounding the ground echoed through the lab as it moved so quickly that it seemed to leave trails of fire in its wake.

Ashley’s eyes followed Ponyta’s rapid movements, her mind racing. “Mars, use Double Team!” she shouted, her voice sharp.

Mars darted forward, his form blurring before splitting into several identical copies that scattered across the battlefield. Each clone mirrored Mars’s stance, their flames burning brightly as they moved in perfect synchronization.

Ponyta skidded to a stop, its sharp eyes flicking between the identical Charmanders. For a moment, it hesitated, unable to pinpoint the real target.

“Smart,” Blaine said, his tone approving but firm. “But Ponyta, don’t let them confuse you. Use Stomp!”

Ponyta reared up on its hind legs before slamming its hooves down with a powerful force. The impact sent a shockwave across the arena, dispersing Mars’s illusions one by one.

Ashley grit her teeth, her mind working quickly. “Mars, use Substitute!”

Just as Ponyta charged again, Mars created a decoy that absorbed the blow. The fake Charmander shattered like glass, giving the real Mars time to slip out of Ponyta’s reach and reposition himself.

“Good work!” Ashley called, her voice carrying over the sound of Ponyta’s hooves. “Now, Smokescreen!”

Mars inhaled deeply before releasing a thick cloud of black smoke that quickly enveloped the battlefield. The acrid haze obscured Ponyta’s vision, earning an irritated whinny as the fiery horse pawed the ground, clearly frustrated.

“Don’t let the smoke throw you off, Ponyta!” Blaine commanded, his voice calm but firm.

Ashley’s grin widened. “Mars, follow up with Scary Face!”

From within the smoke, Mars’s eyes glowed ominously as he unleashed an unsettling wave of energy. Even through the haze, the effect was clear—Ponyta’s movements faltered as fear crept into its usually confident stance.

“Now’s our chance!” Ashley shouted. “Mars, use Slash—aim for the legs!”

Mars darted forward, emerging from the smoke with claws glowing faintly. He lunged at Ponyta’s legs, slashing with precision and forcing the fiery horse to stumble. The hit wasn’t devastating, but it was enough to throw off Ponyta’s balance.

Blaine’s brow furrowed slightly as he watched the exchange. “Not bad, kid,” he muttered under his breath.

Ashley’s eyes gleamed with determination. “Alright, Mars, time to end this! Use Sunny Day!”

Mars planted his feet firmly, his tail flame flaring brighter as he released a pulse of energy into the air. The lab seemed to shimmer as the artificial sunlight intensified, bathing the battlefield in a golden glow. The temperature in the gym rose noticeably, amplifying the already sweltering heat.

“Follow up with Fire Spin—make it count!” Ashley called, her voice ringing with authority.

Mars inhaled deeply, his flames boosted by the Sunny Day effect. He released a massive vortex of fire that roared to life, spiraling toward Ponyta and enveloping it in a blazing inferno. The flames twisted and crackled with an intensity that filled the gym, leaving Ponyta trapped with no escape.

The fiery whirlwind raged for several moments before dying down, revealing Ponyta kneeling on the ground, its flames dimmed and its legs trembling. With a soft whinny, the elegant Pokémon collapsed, fainted.

Ashley exhaled deeply, her fists clenched at her sides as she watched the flames dissipate. Mars stood tall at the center of the battlefield, his chest heaving as his tail flame blazed victoriously.

“Way to go, Mars!” Ashley shouted, running onto the battlefield to scoop up her Charmander. “That was incredible—you’re a total superstar!”

Mars chirped happily, wrapping his claws around Ashley’s arm as she spun him around in celebration.

Blaine approached, recalling Ponyta with a nod of respect before slipping the Poké Ball back into his coat. “That was a well-fought battle,” he said, his tone carrying genuine approval. “You didn’t just rely on power—you adapted. You controlled the battlefield with Smokescreen and Scary Face, used Substitute to protect yourself, and finished it off with a boosted Fire Spin. That’s the kind of thinking that wins battles.”

His smirk softened into something more genuine as he pulled a small, fiery-red badge from his pocket. Without a word, he tossed it to Ashley in a smooth arc. “Here. You’ve earned it.”

Ashley barely caught the badge, fumbling it for a second before gripping it tightly in her hand. Her eyes widened as she looked down at the intricately designed Volcano Badge, its flame-like pattern glowing faintly in the heat of the room. “Wait... hold up,” she said, her voice filled with confusion. “A badge? But didn’t you close the gym? This isn’t even your official arena—it’s your secret volcano lab!”

Blaine chuckled, crossing his arms and leaning slightly to one side. “That’s true,” he said, his tone casual but laced with a hint of mischief. “But watching you these past two weeks, I’ve realized something. Closing the gym wasn’t the solution. I was tired of all the unworthy challengers—tourists looking for a quick thrill or trainers only in it for the bragging rights. But you? You reminded me why I became a Gym Leader in the first place.”

Ashley blinked, clutching the badge tighter as her brain caught up with his words. “So... does this mean you’re reopening the gym?”

“Not exactly,” Blaine said, shaking his head. “I’ll remain a Gym Leader, but only for those who prove themselves worthy. If they want a Volcano Badge, they’ll have to find me first—solve my riddles, navigate my maze, and show me they’ve got the brains and guts to handle what I throw at them.”

He pointed at her with a smirk. “Just like you did.”

A wide grin spread across Ashley’s face as the realization sank in. She looked down at the badge again, turning it over in her hands. The edges were warm to the touch, almost as if it held a small piece of the fire they had just battled with. Without thinking, she launched herself forward, throwing her arms around Blaine in an exuberant hug.

“Thank you!” she exclaimed, squeezing him tightly before stepping back, her face glowing with gratitude and excitement. “Seriously, Blaine. Thank you for everything. For the training, the battles, the advice... all of it. You’re the best!”

“Alright, alright, don’t get all sentimental on me, kid,” he said, though the warmth in his tone betrayed his amusement. “Here’s the Fire Blast TM, don’t worry it is reusable. And the prize of $1,920 Poké Dollars.” Blaine laughed, handing the beaming Ashley her prizes. “Just promise me one thing.”

Ashley tilted her head, her expression curious. “What’s that?”

“Give it your all at the Indigo League,” Blaine said, his voice firm but encouraging. “You’ve got the talent, the drive, and one heck of a team. But the League’s no joke. If you’re serious about being a champion, you’ll need to dig deep and keep pushing yourself—even when it gets tough.”

Ashley straightened up, her grin turning into a determined smirk as she adjusted her hat. “You can count on me,” she said, her voice steady. “Mars, Vulcan, and I—we’re not stopping until we’re at the top.”

Mars and Volcano barked in unison, their fiery determination mirroring Ashley’s.

“Good,” Blaine said with a nod. “Then I’ll be watching. Don’t make me regret giving you that badge.”

“Never,” Ashley replied confidently, slipping the Volcano Badge into her case with care. She turned to her team, gesturing toward the exit. “Alright, guys. Let’s get going. The Indigo League’s waiting, and we’ve got a lot of work to do.”

As the three of them headed toward the exit, Ashley glanced back one last time. Blaine stood in the center of the arena, his hands on his hips and his Rapidash now standing at his side, its mane blazing brightly. He gave her a small wave, his smirk still firmly in place.

Ashley waved back, her heart swelling with a mix of pride and excitement. As the heavy gym doors closed behind her, the heat of the volcano faded, but the fire in her chest burned hotter than ever. The journey ahead was still long, but she was ready for whatever came next—with her team by her side and a Volcano Badge in her case to prove it.

The moon hung low over the Pokémon Center, casting a soft glow through the window of Ashley’s room. She lay sprawled on her bed, her legs dangling over the edge as she held the Volcano Badge above her face. The light from the badge shimmered faintly, almost as if it was still alive with the fiery energy of her battles. Ashley sighed, a slow smile spreading across her face.

“Our first badge,” she muttered, turning it over in her fingers. “Not bad for a first-timer, huh?”

Mars, perched on the foot of the bed, let out a quiet “Char,” his tail flame flickering with a warm, steady light. Vulcan was curled up on the rug near the bed, his soft snores punctuated by the occasional twitch of his ears.

Ashley glanced at them, her smile softening. “We’ve got a long way to go, but... we’re doing pretty great so far, aren’t we?”

Her PokéNav buzzed suddenly, the screen lighting up with a familiar name: Professor Oak. Ashley blinked, propping herself up on one elbow as she swiped to answer the call.

“Hey, Professor!” she greeted, her tone bright as she adjusted the screen.

The familiar face of Professor Oak filled the display, his warm smile immediately putting her at ease. “Ah, Ashley! Good evening! I hope I’m not interrupting anything?”

Ashley shook her head, sitting up fully and tucking her legs beneath her. “Nah, just admiring my Volcano Badge,” she said, holding it up to the screen with a grin. “Pretty sweet, huh?”

Oak’s eyes twinkled as he adjusted his glasses. “Very impressive. I’ve heard about your training with Blaine—quite the feat for a young trainer. Not many can say they’ve been personally mentored by a Gym Leader, let alone one as skilled as Blaine.”

Ashley laughed, scratching the back of her head. “Yeah, he’s pretty great. Tough, but great. Mars and Vulcan learned so much—probably more than I have!”

The professor chuckled warmly before his expression shifted slightly, a spark of curiosity lighting his eyes. “Speaking of progress, I wanted to let you know... Gary’s already reached Pewter City. He’s earned his Boulder Badge and is nearly at Cerulean City.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, leaning back slightly. “Huh. Good for him, I guess. He’s probably been tearing through the routes, huh?”

Oak nodded, his tone a mix of pride and amusement. “He has indeed. Gary’s been very active—he’s caught a Scyther, a Nidorino, and a Nidorina already. Quite the collection for someone so early in their journey.”

Ashley shrugged, tilting her head as she adjusted her hat—which she still hadn’t taken off. “Yeah, well, good for him. I’m happy for the guy, but I’m not in a rush. The only reason he’s getting around so fast is that ridiculous car of his. What’s he going to do when he hits a mountain trail? Call Triple Pidgey for help?”

Oak laughed, his voice rich and genuine. “Now, now, Ashley. Let’s not underestimate Gary’s resourcefulness.”

“I’m just saying, Professor,” Ashley said with a smirk, crossing her arms. “There’s no point in racing through all this. I’m here to learn, to train, and to actually enjoy the journey. What’s the rush to get to the Indigo League if your team isn’t ready for it?”

Oak’s expression softened, a note of pride in his voice as he replied. “A wise approach, Ashley. You’ve already shown remarkable maturity in your decisions. Catching a rare Pokémon like Growlithe is no small feat, and choosing to take your time to train with Blaine? That shows a level of foresight many trainers lack.”

Ashley grinned, glancing over at Vulcan, who shifted slightly in his sleep. “Yeah, Vulcan’s pretty awesome. He kinda chose me, though. I just happened to be there when he needed a hand.”

“That’s the mark of a true trainer,” Oak said warmly. “It’s not just about catching powerful Pokémon—it’s about forming bonds with them, understanding their needs, and helping them grow. You’re doing wonderfully in that regard.”

Ashley leaned her chin on her hand, her grin softening into something more thoughtful. “Thanks, Professor. That means a lot coming from you. I just want to do my best, you know? For them and for myself.”

Oak nodded sagely. “And you will. Just keep up the good work, Ashley. With your determination and the team you’re building, I have no doubt you’ll make a name for yourself in the Indigo League.”

Ashley sat up straighter, her grin returning in full force. “You bet I will! Mars, Vulcan, and I—we’re going to be unstoppable!”

Mars chirped from the bed, his tail flame flaring slightly in agreement. Even Vulcan, half-asleep on the rug, let out a quiet bark of acknowledgment.

Oak chuckled once more, his expression filled with warmth. “I’ll let you get some rest, then. You’ve earned it after everything you’ve accomplished so far. Keep me updated, won’t you?”

“Will do, Professor,” Ashley said, giving him a quick salute. “Thanks for the call!”

Just as Ashley was about to end the call, Professor Oak’s voice stopped her. “Oh, before you go, Ashley, there’s something else I wanted to mention.”

Ashley tilted her head, her finger hovering over the screen. “What’s up, Professor? Another pep talk? Because, not gonna lie, I’m kinda riding high on compliments tonight.”

Oak chuckled, shaking his head. “No, no. This is about an opportunity. A friend of mine happens to be on Cinnabar Island at the moment, and she’s planning a research trip to the Seafoam Island. She’ll need a field assistant to help with her work, and I thought of you.”

Ashley blinked, sitting up straighter. “Seafoam Islands? Field assistant? That sounds... kind of awesome, actually. What kind of research are we talking about?”

“The Seafoam Islands are home to some fascinating Ice-type Pokémon ecosystem,” Professor Oak explained, leaning back slightly. “It’s a rare opportunity, and I think you’d learn a great deal from her. Plus,” he added with a knowing smile, “she’s more than willing to pay you for your time. And as an added bonus, she can be your ride to Fuschia City when her research concludes.”

Ashley’s eyes widened, excitement bubbling up as she grinned. “Are you kidding me? This sounds amazing! I get to help with research, visit some tropical islands, and I don’t have to hoof it to Fuschia City? Sign me up!”

Oak nodded approvingly. “I thought you’d like the sound of that. But you’ll need to be ready early. She’s departing tomorrow morning at seven sharp.”

“Seven?” Ashley repeated, her grin faltering for half a second. But then she laughed, running a hand through her hair. “Eh, no problem. After training with Mars and Vulcan this last month, sleeping in isn’t even in my vocabulary anymore. You can’t exactly stay in bed when you’ve got two Fire-types who wake up the second the sun hits the horizon.”

“Excellent,” Oak said, smiling warmly. “I’ll let her know you’re on board. She’ll meet you at the Cinnabar dock. Be sure to pack appropriately—this will be a working trip, after all.”

Ashley nodded firmly, her grin returning in full force. “Got it. Thanks, Professor. Seriously, this is... wow. I won’t let you down.”

“I know you won’t,” Oak replied, his tone warm but steady. “Now, get some rest, Ashley. You’ve got a big day ahead of you.”

With that, the screen went dark, leaving Ashley alone with the soft hum of the Pokémon Center room. For a moment, she sat there, staring at her reflection in the darkened screen. Then, slowly, a wide grin spread across her face.

“Seafoam Islands, huh?” she muttered, her mind already spinning with possibilities. “This is going to be awesome.”

With a smile, Ashley slid the Volcano Badge back into her case and set it on the nightstand. She lay back on the bed, pulling the blanket over herself as she stared up at the ceiling. “Alright, Gary,” she muttered to herself, her voice quiet but confident. “You might have a head start, but you’re not the only one who’s going to make waves in the Indigo League. We’ll get there. And when we do, we’re going to show you what real training looks like.”

With that, Ashley closed her eyes, the steady sound of her team’s breathing lulling her into a peaceful sleep.

Chapter Text

Ashley stood by the docks at exactly 6:30 AM, the early morning mist clinging to the air like a soft veil. The salty tang of the ocean mingled with the faint scent of seaweed, and the occasional sound of waves lapping against the wooden piers punctuated the stillness. It was quiet—almost eerily so—with only a few fishermen bustling about, their low voices carrying over the otherwise tranquil setting.

Mars and Vulcan flanked her, their presence as solid and reassuring as ever. Vulcan sat attentively at her side, his ears perked and his tail swaying gently, the flame at its tip burning steadily against the cool breeze. Mars, meanwhile, was perched on a low crate nearby, his tail flicking idly as he kept a sharp eye on their surroundings. His gaze darted between the fishermen and the occasional Wingull overhead, but his posture was relaxed, showing his growing maturity.

Ashley pulled out her Pokédex, the familiar hum of the device breaking the silence. She scrolled through the data, her eyes scanning the updated stats of her team. “Alright, let’s see,” she muttered to herself, angling the screen so it caught the dim light of the sunrise. “Fire Spin... Sunny Day... both learned and mastered. Nice.”

She glanced at Vulcan, who was watching her with a quiet curiosity. “You’ve been on fire lately,” she said with a smirk, lowering the Pokédex to meet his gaze. “Literally and figuratively.”

Vulcan barked softly, his chest puffing out with pride.

Ashley chuckled and tapped the screen, pulling up more data. Mars’ profile appeared next, and her eyes lit up as she read through the progress. “Mars, you’re killing it too. Every move in your set? Mastered. And that Egg Move—Dragon Rush—it’s almost ready to unlock. Just gotta wait until you evolve into a Charmeleon.”

Mars let out an eager “Char!” and leapt down from the crate, landing with a little flourish as his tail flame flared briefly.

“Show-off,” Ashley teased, but her grin betrayed her pride. “And don’t think I haven’t noticed how much stronger you’ve both gotten. Stamina? Check. Speed? Check. Overall physical condition? Best I’ve ever seen.”

She pocketed the Pokédex and crouched down, placing a hand on each Pokémon. “I don’t care what Gary’s caught or how fast he’s moving. We’re in this for the long haul, and you two? You’re my A-team.”

Mars and Vulcan barked in unison, their tails wagging as they leaned into her touch.

The sound of approaching footsteps caught Ashley’s attention, and she straightened, turning toward the source. A striking woman with flowing red hair that caught the early sunlight like fire strode confidently down the dock. She wore a stylish outfit and carried a clipboard in one hand. Her eyes sparkled with a mix of sharp intelligence and warmth as she approached. Beside her walked a graceful Jynx, the Pokémon exuded an air of calm power, her movements fluid and deliberate as she kept pace with her trainer.

“You must be Ashley,” the woman said, her voice smooth and melodic, but carrying a clear note of authority. She stopped a few feet away, her gaze shifting to Vulcan and Mars with a curious, appraising look. “And these must be your Fire-types. I can see why Samuel recommended you.”

Ashley grinned, giving her two Pokémon a quick pat on the head. “Yep, that’s us. I’m Ashley, and these are Mars and Vulcan. We’re ready for whatever you’ve got planned, Professor... uh...”

“Prima,” the woman said with a small smile, extending a hand. “Professor Prima. And I’m glad to hear it. This trip isn’t going to be easy, but if you’ve been training with Blaine, I suspect you’re up for the challenge.”

Ashley shook her hand, her grin widening. “Training with Blaine was no joke, but I’ve got to say—it was worth every minute. These two? They’re stronger than ever.”

Prima knelt briefly, extending her hand to Vulcan, who sniffed it before giving an approving bark. Mars hopped forward, puffing out his chest as he chirped a polite “Char!” Prima chuckled, her smile softening.

“Impressive. They’re disciplined, and they trust you. That’s a good foundation,” she said, straightening and adjusting her clipboard. “But let me be clear—this isn’t a vacation. The Seafoam Islands are beautiful, yes, but they’re wild. You’ll be assisting with my research, which means labor. Think you’re up for it?”

Ashley adjusted her hat, her grin turning into a confident smirk. “Absolutely. Bring it on.”

Prima nodded, before turning on her heels and confidently marching to the end of the dock, her Jynx—a sleek, regal-looking Pokémon with a flowing mane of icy blue hair and a calm, piercing gaze—at her side. Ashley trailed behind, her eyebrows knitting together as they reached the edge of the pier. She squinted at the horizon, expecting to see a ship waiting for them, but the waters were empty save for a few bobbing Wingull.

“Uh... Professor,” Ashley began, shifting her weight as she glanced around. “Where’s the boat? Don’t tell me we’re swimming to the Seafoam Islands.”

Prima threw her head back and laughed, a clear, melodic sound that carried easily over the gentle waves. “Oh, Ashley, I’d never ask that of you. Although,” she added with a teasing grin, “I wouldn’t put it past Blaine to throw a challenge like that your way.”

Ashley snorted, crossing her arms. “No kidding. That man made me run laps through volcanic terrain. But seriously—what’s the deal?”

Prima reached into her coat and pulled out a Poké Ball, holding it up for Ashley to see. “This,” she said, her tone suddenly smooth and confident, “is our ride.”

With a flick of her wrist, she released the Pokémon inside. In a flash of light, a gorgeous Lapras materialized in the water, her shimmering scales glinting in the early sunlight. The elegant creature let out a melodic cry, her long neck arching gracefully as she turned to face Prima.

Ashley’s jaw dropped. “No way. That’s... that’s amazing!” She stepped closer to the edge of the dock, her eyes wide with awe as she took in Lapras’s serene expression and powerful build. “You’ve got your own Lapras taxi? That’s the coolest thing I’ve ever seen!”

Prima chuckled, patting Lapras’s neck affectionately. “Lapras has been my partner for years. She’s taken me on more expeditions than I can count. There’s no better way to travel across the seas.”

Ashley beamed, turning to her team. “You hear that, guys? We’re riding in style today!”

Mars, perched beside her, let out an excited “Char!” and hopped closer to the water’s edge. Vulcan barked, his tail wagging, though he remained at a safe distance from the lapping waves.

But as Ashley’s gaze flicked to Mars, her grin faltered. She frowned, kneeling down to meet her Charmander’s eyes. “Hey, buddy,” she said gently. “We need to talk.”

Mars tilted his head, his tail flame flickering as he chirped curiously.

Ashley hesitated for a moment before sighing. “I’m going to have to recall you for this ride. Lapras isn’t a ship—it doesn’t have rails or any kind of protection to keep you from slipping. If your tail flame even touches the water, it’s game over, and I’m not about to risk that for a thrill.”

Mars’s eyes widened, and he let out a low growl of protest, stepping back with a defiant stomp of his foot. His tail flared slightly, his expression a mix of indignation and disappointment.

“Don’t give me that look,” Ashley said, crossing her arms. “You know I’m right. I get it—you hate missing out on the action. But this isn’t up for debate.”

Mars huffed, his shoulders slumping as he glanced longingly at Lapras.

“Hey,” Ashley said, her tone softening. She reached out to ruffle the top of his head. “It’s not forever, okay? Just until we’re on solid ground again. Trust me on this, alright?”

Mars grumbled, his tail flicking irritably, but after a long pause, he gave a reluctant nod.

“Good boy,” Ashley said with a smile, pulling out his Poké Ball. “I promise I’ll let you out as soon as we’re there.”

With a final, quiet “Char...” Mars allowed himself to be recalled, the beam of red light pulling him back into the safety of his Poké Ball.

Prima, who had been observing the interaction with quiet interest, nodded approvingly. “You’ve got a good handle on him,” she said, her voice carrying a note of respect. “Charmanders are known for their fiery tempers—literally and figuratively. But you handled that like a pro.”

Ashley clipped Mars’s Poké Ball to her belt with a grin. “Thanks. He’s a handful sometimes, but he’s my handful, you know?”

Prima smiled, gesturing to Lapras. “Shall we?”

Ashley nodded, and with Vulcan by her side, she carefully climbed onto Lapras’s broad shell. The surface was surprisingly stable, the ridges of the shell providing plenty of grip. Vulcan hopped up beside her, his paws clicking lightly against the smooth surface as he settled near the edge.

Prima climbed on next, her movements practiced and fluid as Jynx leapt up gracefully, her icy mane shimmering in the sunlight. Lapras let out a soft cry, shifting slightly to balance her passengers before turning toward the open sea.

As they began to glide across the water, Ashley couldn’t help but marvel at the smoothness of the ride. The gentle rhythm of Lapras’s movements was almost hypnotic, and the salty breeze carried a sense of freedom that made her heart race.

As Lapras carried them farther from the dock, the mist began to lift, revealing the vast, open sea ahead. Ashley leaned forward, her excitement building with each gentle wave they passed. The journey had only just begun, but she could already tell it was going to be an adventure she’d never forget.

Lapras cut smoothly through the waves, the gentle rocking motion of its movements creating a soothing rhythm as the open sea stretched endlessly in all directions. The salty breeze tousled Ashley’s hair, and the sunlight danced on the water’s surface, painting rippling patterns of gold and blue. Vulcan sat comfortably by Ashley’s side, his amber eyes watching the occasional Wingull that swooped overhead.

Ashley, however, barely noticed the beauty around her. She sat cross-legged on Lapras’s broad shell, her Pokédex balanced on her lap and her notebook propped open against her knee. Her pencil moved rapidly across the page as she jotted down notes, occasionally glancing between the screen and her scribbles.

Prima, seated at the front of Lapras with Jynx lounging gracefully beside her, watched this with mild amusement. She tilted her head, her crimson hair catching the sunlight, and called back over her shoulder, “You’re awfully quiet back there, Ashley. Shouldn’t you be enjoying the view? It’s not every day you get to sail across the open sea on a Lapras.”

Ashley blinked, glancing up from her notebook. She flashed a sheepish grin. “Sorry, Professor! I mean, Prima. The view’s great, really, but I’ve been trying to figure something out, and it’s kind of bugging me.”

Prima raised an eyebrow, her green eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Oh? And what exactly has you so focused that you’re missing one of the best parts of this journey?”

Ashley held up her notebook, tapping her pencil against the margin. “It’s Hidden Power. My dad gave me a bunch of TMs when I started my journey—Protect, Swift, Double Team, Substitute—and Hidden Power was one of them. The problem is that… I don’t totally get it. Like, I know it’s customizable depending on the Pokémon’s type alignment, but there’s so much more to it, right?”

Prima let out a low whistle, leaning back slightly as she crossed her arms. “Hidden Power, huh? That is an interesting one. Not exactly a beginner’s TM, though—it’s one of the most nuanced moves out there.”

“Tell me about it,” Ashley muttered, scratching her head with the pencil. “I’ve been trying to wrap my head around it for weeks. It’s like the more I read, the more questions I have.”

Prima chuckled, gesturing toward the notebook and Pokédex. “Alright, first thing’s first. Put those away for now.”

Ashley hesitated, looking down at her notes like they might vanish if she stopped for a second. “But—”

“No buts,” Prima interrupted, her tone light but firm. “You’ve got one of the most stunning views in all of Kanto right in front of you. You can study later. Right now, we’re going to talk about Hidden Power, and we’re going to do it while appreciating this incredible scenery. Trust me—you’ll learn better if you’re relaxed.”

Ashley sighed but closed her notebook and tucked it into her bag alongside the Pokédex. “Alright, alright,” she said, scooting forward slightly to join Prima near the front of Lapras. “So, what’s the deal with Hidden Power?”

Prima glanced over her shoulder with a small smile before gesturing toward the sparkling water around them. “Hidden Power is unique because it isn’t tied to a specific type in the traditional sense. Its strength and type depend entirely on the individual Pokémon using it—their genetic makeup, so to speak.”

Ashley frowned, leaning forward as she rested her chin on her palm. “Okay, but how does that work? Like, how can one move have so many different variations?”

“It’s all about potential,” Prima explained, her voice calm and patient as Lapras let out a soft cry. “Every Pokémon has a natural alignment, a sort of energy signature that’s unique to them. Hidden Power taps into that signature, drawing out a latent type that isn’t always obvious at first glance. For example, Vulcan’s Fire-type alignment might suggest one result, but Hidden Power could reveal an entirely different affinity—like Electric or Grass.”

“Wait—so Hidden Power could make him shoot beams or something?” Ashley asked, her eyes widening. “That’s wild!”

Prima laughed, shaking her head. “Not quite beams, but you’re on the right track. Think of it as a way to expand your Pokémon’s arsenal, giving them access to moves that might counter types they’d normally struggle against. But mastering it requires understanding your Pokémon’s nature, their strengths, and even their hidden traits.”

Ashley let that sink in, her gaze drifting toward the horizon. “So, it’s not just about using the TM—it’s about knowing your Pokémon inside and out.”

“Exactly,” Prima said, her tone approving. “That’s what makes Hidden Power such a fascinating move. It’s not about brute strength or raw power—it’s about precision and strategy. The trainers who can unlock its full potential are the ones who take the time to understand their Pokémon on a deeper level.”

Ashley sat back, her arms resting on her knees as she mulled this over. Vulcan barked softly, nudging her with his nose as if to remind her he was listening too. She grinned, scratching behind his ears. “Hear that, Vulcan? We’ve got some homework to do.”

Ashley leaned forward on Lapras’s shell, her elbows resting on her knees as the ocean breeze tousled her hair. “Okay, so Hidden Power is like, this secret weapon buried inside each Pokémon,” she said, her brow furrowing. “But how do you even figure out what type it’s going to be? Is it like some kind of guessing game?”

Prima chuckled, her emerald-green eyes sparkling with amusement. “It’s not entirely guesswork, Ashley. There’s a method to it. But it does take a little trial and error, along with some careful observation. Luckily for you, I’ve got experience with this kind of thing.”

Ashley perked up, her excitement bubbling over. “Oh, this is gonna be good. Alright, Professor Genius, lay it on me.”

Prima smirked at the nickname but turned her focus to Vulcan, who was sitting upright, his ears perked as if he, too, was paying close attention. “Let’s start with Vulcan,” Prima said, gesturing to the Growlithe. “We already know he has a Fire-type alignment, but Hidden Power draws from deeper, less obvious traits. To figure it out, we test how he interacts with different types of energy.”

Ashley tilted her head, confused. “What, like throwing random types at him and seeing what sticks?”

“Close,” Prima said with a laugh. “But it’s more controlled than that. For example...” She reached into her satchel, pulling out a small, crystalline device that shimmered faintly in the sunlight. “This is an energy resonance tester. It’s a tool researchers use to measure how Pokémon respond to different elemental frequencies.”

Ashley blinked, watching as Prima knelt beside Vulcan, holding the device near him. Vulcan sniffed it cautiously, his tail wagging slightly as the crystal began to glow with a faint green hue.

Prima nodded, holding it up for Ashley to see. “See that? Green resonance indicates a Grass-type affinity. That means Vulcan’s Hidden Power is likely Grass-type.”

“Grass?” Ashley repeated, her eyes widening. “That’s... kinda wild. I mean, he’s a Fire-type. Isn’t that like the complete opposite?”

Prima smiled knowingly. “Exactly. That’s what makes Hidden Power so special—it often draws out abilities that complement or contrast a Pokémon’s primary type. For Vulcan, having a Grass-type Hidden Power gives him an edge against Water-types, which are normally a major weakness for Fire-types.”

Ashley whistled, glancing at Vulcan, who puffed out his chest as if already proud of his newfound ability. “Alright, buddy. Looks like you’re about to be the ultimate Water-type counter. Just imagine the look on their faces when you take them down with Grass moves.”

Vulcan barked enthusiastically, his tail wagging as his flame burned a little brighter.

“Now let’s check Mars,” Prima said, turning her attention to the Poké Ball on Ashley’s belt.

Ashley unclipped it, holding it up with a grin. “Alright, Mars, time to see what you’re hiding.” With a flash of red light, Mars materialized, stretching and letting out a sharp “Char!” as his tail flame flared to life.

Prima repeated the process with the resonance tester, holding it near Mars. This time, the crystal glowed a soft blue.

Ashley’s eyes lit up. “Blue? That’s gotta be Water, right?”

Prima nodded. “Correct. Mars’s Hidden Power is Water-type. Which, I’ll admit, is a rare and fascinating combination for a Fire-type like him. Water and Fire together create a unique balance—offense and defense in one package.”

“Whoa,” Ashley said, her voice tinged with awe as she crouched to Mars’s level. “You hear that, bud? You’re basically a walking paradox. A Fire-type with Water moves? That’s insane!”

Mars grinned, letting out an excited “Char-char!” before hopping in place, clearly thrilled by the revelation. Ashley panicked and rapidly recalled him, there is no way she was risking him falling into the water. She loved her starter, but he could be a big dummy when he wanted.

“But,” Prima interjected, her tone growing more serious, “it’s not just about having a cool Hidden Power. You need to understand when and how to use it. For Mars, having a Water-type move is great for countering Fire, Rock, and Ground-types—types he might otherwise struggle against. But you’ll have to be strategic. Just because you can use Water-type moves doesn’t mean you should lead with them every time.”

Ashley nodded, her mind racing as she jotted down quick notes in her notebook. “Right. It’s all about timing and knowing the opponent’s weaknesses. Got it.”

Prima gestured to Vulcan. “And the same goes for Vulcan. His Grass-type Hidden Power is incredibly useful against Water, Rock, and Ground-types, but it won’t do much against Flying-types or other Fire-types. You’ll need to be aware of the matchup before committing to a move.”

Ashley leaned back, tapping her pencil against her chin. “So basically, it’s all about playing smart. Hidden Power is like this secret trump card, but it’s not foolproof. You have to know when to pull it out.”

“Exactly,” Prima said, smiling as she leaned back against Lapras’s shell. “And that’s why Hidden Power is such a fascinating move. It challenges trainers to think critically, to understand their Pokémon’s strengths and weaknesses on a deeper level. Mastering it isn’t just about power—it’s about strategy and adaptability.”

Ashley grinned, glancing at Vulcan who barked in return, as Lapras let out a soft, melodic cry, and Prima laughed, brushing a strand of crimson hair from her face. Lapras slowed as they neared the rocky outcropping of the Seafoam Islands, her elegant form cutting smoothly through the cold, frothy waves. The jagged cliffs loomed high above the water, their icy surfaces glinting faintly in the pale sunlight. Ashley leaned forward on Lapras’s shell, her breath visible in the crisp air as she squinted to get a better look at the islands.

“Man, it’s like an ice fortress,” she muttered, pulling her jacket tighter around her. “I feel colder just looking at it.”

Prima, seated at the front of Lapras, smiled faintly, her red hair a stark contrast against the dull gray of the cliffs. “The Seafoam Islands are home to some of the strongest Ice-types in the region. It’s a harsh environment, but one that’s perfectly suited to them. You’ll get used to the chill.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, glancing at her team. Vulcan sat close, while Mars was still safely tucked in his Poké Ball. “I mean, I’ll survive,” Ashley said with a grin. “But I don’t think Mars is going to be a fan of this place.”

Prima chuckled as Lapras came to a gentle stop at a natural dock formed by the rocks. Jynx leapt gracefully onto the icy platform, her movements smooth and deliberate as she turned to wait for the others. Prima dismounted with practiced ease, holding out a hand to steady Ashley as she climbed down with Vulcan at her heels.

Once her boots hit the rocky ground, Ashley immediately reached for Mars’s Poké Ball. “Alright, buddy,” she said, pressing the button. “Welcome to the ice box.”

In a flash of light, Mars materialized, his tail flame flaring briefly before dimming as he took in the unfamiliar surroundings. He let out a low, grumbling “Char...” and crossed his arms, his expression a mix of poutiness and disdain for the cold.

Ashley crouched down, placing a hand on his head. “Hey, don’t give me that look. You were the one who wanted to be out of your Poké Ball so bad. Besides,” she added, her grin widening, “you’ve got me and Vulcan to keep you warm. Right, Vulcan?”

Vulcan barked enthusiastically and stepped closer, his body radiating comforting heat. Mars hesitated for a moment before reluctantly stepping forward, pressing against Ashley’s side. Ashley laughed, wrapping an arm around each of her Fire-types. “See? Fire gang’s got this.”

Prima, who had been observing the interaction with an amused smile, gestured for them to follow. “Alright, team. Time to get moving. We’ve got work to do.”

Ashley stood, slipping on the heavy coat she’d bought back in Cinnabar Island. The thick fabric provided some relief from the biting cold, though she still appreciated the warmth radiating from her Pokémon. “So, what’s the plan, Professor?” she asked as they followed Prima and Jynx toward the mouth of a cavern.

Prima’s expression grew more serious as they walked, her boots crunching against the frost-covered rocks. “I’ve received some intel from the G-Men about unusual activity in these caves. The Ice-types here have been acting erratically—aggressive toward each other and any trainers who wander in. That’s not normal behavior for them.”

Ashley frowned, glancing at Vulcan and Mars. “What do you think’s causing it? Environmental stuff? Or maybe a strong Pokémon throwing its weight around?”

“That’s what we’re here to find out,” Prima replied, her voice steady. “The Seafoam Islands have a delicate ecosystem, and any changes—whether natural or external—can disrupt it. Our job is to investigate and determine what’s behind this behavior. With any luck, we’ll find a solution.”

As they approached the cavern entrance, the air grew noticeably colder, and a faint, eerie blue light glowed from within. Ashley shivered despite her coat, but her Fire-types moved closer, their combined warmth enough to take the edge off.

“Alright,” Prima said, stopping just inside the entrance. Her voice echoed slightly in the cavern’s icy expanse. “Here’s how we’re going to do this. I’ll take the lead with Jynx. She’s experienced in handling Ice-types, and her presence will help keep them calm. Ashley, you’ll stay close and assist with observations and data collection. Your Pokémon can provide backup if we encounter anything hostile but try to avoid unnecessary battles. We don’t want to stress the local Pokémon any more than they already are.”

Ashley nodded, pulling her notebook from her bag and tucking it into her coat pocket for easy access. “Got it. Observe, collect data, and only battle if we have to.”

“Exactly,” Prima said, giving her an approving nod. “And remember—stay alert. These caves can be tricky to navigate, and the Ice-types here are quick to defend their territory.”

Ashley gave a mock salute, her grin returning. “Roger that, Professor. Let’s solve this mystery Scooby-Doo style.”

Prima chuckled softly, leading the way deeper into the cavern with Jynx at her side. Ashley followed closely, her boots crunching on the frozen ground as Vulcan and Mars flanked her. The glow from the ice-covered walls bathed everything in a faint, otherworldly light, and the occasional drip of water echoed in the stillness.

As they moved deeper into the caves, Ashley couldn’t shake the feeling that they were being watched. Every now and then, she caught a glimpse of movement out of the corner of her eye—a flash of white fur, the glint of ice-blue eyes—but whenever she turned to look, there was nothing there.

“You feel that, guys?” she whispered, glancing at her Pokémon.

Vulcan growled softly, his ears twitching, while Mars’s tail flame flared slightly, casting flickering shadows on the walls.

Prima paused, glancing back over her shoulder. “Something on your mind, Ashley?”

Ashley hesitated, her eyes scanning the shadows. “I don’t know... it just feels like we’re not alone.”

Prima’s expression remained calm, though her eyes narrowed slightly. “Good instincts. Keep your guard up, but don’t jump to conclusions. The Ice-types here are curious creatures—they might just be observing us.”

Ashley nodded, her grip tightening on her notebook as they continued forward. Whatever was lurking in the shadows, she knew one thing for sure—this was going to be anything but a simple field trip.

The deeper they ventured into the icy labyrinth of the Seafoam Islands, the more alive the caves became. Frost-coated stalactites hung from the ceiling like jagged teeth, and the floors glimmered with patches of ice that reflected the faint blue light from the walls. The temperature dropped even further, making Ashley’s breath visible as small clouds of condensation. Despite the chill, Ashley was determined, pulling her coat tighter as she followed Prima’s lead.

Prima was in full researcher mode, crouching beside an icy wall with a scanning device that hummed softly in her gloved hand. “These readings are fascinating,” she murmured, her voice low and focused. “The ice density here has increased significantly compared to my last visit. Something’s definitely affecting the cave’s environment.”

Ashley, however, had a different task: crowd control. The wild Ice-types in the caves were not thrilled about the human intruders, and Ashley had her hands full keeping them at bay. A particularly feisty Swinub had just skittered out from behind a frosty boulder, its tiny tusks glinting as it charged at Prima’s tools with a high-pitched squeal.

“Vulcan, intercept!” Ashley barked, pointing at the approaching Swinub. Vulcan dashed forward, his paws skidding slightly on the slick ice before planting himself firmly in the creature’s path. His tail flame flared brightly as he let out a sharp growl, stopping the Swinub in its tracks.

“Nice save,” Ashley said, giving Vulcan an approving nod. “Alright, buddy, give it a quick Ember—just enough to send it packing.”

Vulcan inhaled deeply, releasing a controlled burst of flame that shot across the icy ground, stopping just short of the Swinub’s tiny hooves. The heat made the Swinub squeal again, this time in alarm, as it turned tail and bolted back into the shadows.

Ashley grinned. “That’s what I’m talking about. Great work, Vulcan.” She glanced at Mars, who was watching from a safe distance with his arms crossed. “You’re up next, Mars. Stay ready—we’ve got a lot of ground to cover.”

Mars let out an eager “Char!” his tail flame flickering brightly as he hopped from foot to foot, clearly itching for his turn.

Meanwhile, Prima remained unbothered by the commotion, her attention fully on the scanning device in her hand. “You’re doing great, Ashley,” she called without looking up. “The less interference, the better. Keep them off me for a little longer—I need to collect more data on these ice formations.”

“No problem,” Ashley replied, turning just in time to spot a trio of Smoochum waddling out from behind a cluster of icicles. “Alright, Mars! Triple threat incoming. Use Double Team to confuse them!”

Mars leapt into action, his small frame flickering as multiple illusory copies of him appeared around the Smoochum. The tiny Ice-types blinked in confusion, their wide eyes darting between the shifting images. Before they could decide which Mars to target, Ashley pointed decisively. “Now hit ’em with Ember—wide spread!”

Mars inhaled deeply, releasing a flurry of small flames that scattered across the battlefield. The Smoochum let out startled cries as they scurried back into the shadows, their icy path quickly melting into puddles.

“Nice! That’s how you do it,” Ashley cheered, her voice echoing slightly in the cavern. She jogged over to Mars, crouching down to ruffle his head. “You’re getting sharper every time. Blaine would be proud.”

Mars grinned, puffing out his chest as his tail flame flickered proudly. Vulcan barked his agreement, wagging his tail as he trotted over to join them.

“Alright, team,” Ashley said, standing and scanning the cave. “Stay sharp. Something tells me this place isn’t going to get any friendlier the deeper we go.”

As if on cue, a loud rumble echoed through the cavern, followed by a sudden, piercing cry that sent shivers down Ashley’s spine. She turned toward Prima, who was standing now, her scanning device clutched tightly as she scanned the darkened passage ahead.

“That sounded like a Dewgong,” Prima said, her voice calm but edged with caution. “It must be the alpha of this section. If it’s that agitated, it’s likely defending its territory—or its pod.”

Ashley’s hand instinctively went to her Pokemon, her fingers brushing against Mars and Vulcan. “You want me to handle it?”

Prima shook her head. “Not yet. Let’s avoid direct confrontation if we can. Dewgong are powerful, but they’re not naturally aggressive unless provoked. If we stay on the periphery and don’t make any sudden moves, it might let us pass.”

Ashley nodded, her heart pounding as the distant sound of Dewgong’s cry echoed again. She motioned for Mars and Vulcan to stay close, her eyes darting around the cavern for any signs of movement. Every shadow seemed to shift, and every flicker of light felt like a potential threat.

Prima led the way forward, her steps careful but purposeful, with Jynx gliding silently beside her. Ashley followed closely, her Pokémon flanking her like vigilant sentinels. The air grew colder with each step, and frost began to form on the edges of her coat. Despite the chill, she could feel a bead of sweat trailing down the back of her neck.

As Ashley and her team made their way deeper into the icy expanse of the Seafoam Islands, they had managed to evade the Dewgong but the battles had also become more intense. For the most part, Mars and Vulcan handled the smaller, more common Ice-types like Swinub and Smoochum with growing confidence. Ashley was getting better at managing her team in these skirmishes, calling out commands with sharp precision and making mental notes on how to improve their strategies.

But then there were the other moments—the ones where Ashley knew she was out of her league. Like now.

“Uh, Prima?” Ashley called, her voice wavering slightly as she backed up a step. “We’ve got a situation here.”

A hulking Cloyster loomed before them, its jagged shell glinting like armor in the dim blue light. Its piercing eyes were locked onto Vulcan, who growled low in his throat, his tail flame flaring defiantly despite the intense chill in the air. The Cloyster let out a deep, menacing rumble as its spikes bristled, its entire body radiating an intimidating energy.

Prima, who had been crouched beside an icy outcropping with her scanning device, didn’t even glance up. “Cloyster’s no joke,” she said calmly, adjusting a knob on the device. “Its Defense stat is through the roof, and its Water-type moves will make short work of your Fire-types if you’re not careful.”

“Yeah, no kidding,” Ashley muttered, her eyes darting between the Cloyster and her Pokémon. “Mars and Vulcan don’t stand a chance against this thing.”

Finally, Prima stood, slipping the scanner into her satchel and brushing frost from her gloves. She stepped forward, her Jynx gliding gracefully beside her, the Ice/Psychic-type’s eyes narrowing as it sized up the Cloyster.

“Don’t worry,” Prima said, her voice calm but commanding. “Jyn and I will handle this one. Pay attention, Ashley—this is a perfect opportunity for a lesson in dealing with type disadvantages.”

Ashley nodded quickly, pulling her team back to give Prima room. “Alright, Vulcan, Mars—watch closely. We’re about to see how the pros do it.”

The Cloyster hissed, its shell snapping shut before reopening with a sharp clang. A swirling ball of water began forming in front of it, its energy crackling as it prepared to launch a Hydro Pump.

“Jyn, Light Screen,” Prima commanded, her tone steady.

Jynx moved instantly, raising her slender arms as a shimmering barrier of light materialized in front of her. The Hydro Pump slammed into the barrier, dispersing into harmless droplets that scattered across the icy floor.

“Whoa,” Ashley breathed, her eyes wide. “That was awesome!”

Prima smirked, her emerald eyes flicking toward Ashley for just a moment. “Light Screen halves the damage from Special Attacks like Hydro Pump. It’s a must-have when you’re up against strong Water-types with high-powered moves.”

Ashley scribbled furiously in her notebook, muttering under her breath. “Light Screen... add that to the list...”

The Cloyster growled in frustration, its spikes bristling as it charged forward with an Ice Shard attack. Sharp, jagged chunks of ice flew through the air, aiming straight for Jynx.

“Dodge and hit back with Psychic,” Prima said smoothly.

Jynx twirled gracefully to the side, avoiding the ice shards with ease. Her eyes glowed an intense pink as she focused her energy, lifting the Cloyster into the air with a burst of Psychic power. The massive Water/Ice-type flailed helplessly, its shell rattling as Jynx slammed it back onto the icy ground.

“See how Jynx keeps her distance?” Prima asked, glancing at Ashley. “When you’re at a type disadvantage, the last thing you want to do is engage in close combat. Use ranged attacks and defensive moves to wear your opponent down.”

Ashley nodded, her gaze locked on the battle. “Got it. Keep our distance, stay flexible.”

The Cloyster, though battered, wasn’t done yet. It opened its shell wide, releasing a powerful Blizzard that swept across the cavern, the icy wind howling as it threatened to engulf them.

“Counter with Icy Wind,” Prima ordered, her voice sharp.

Jynx spread her arms wide, releasing a controlled burst of freezing air that collided with the Blizzard. The two forces clashed in a dazzling display of frost and snow, but Jynx’s precision won out, neutralizing the attack and leaving the Cloyster visibly weakened.

“Finish it with Focus Blast,” Prima said, her tone unwavering.

Jynx’s hands glowed with energy as she formed a concentrated sphere of fighting energy. With a graceful motion, she launched the Focus Blast straight at Cloyster, the move striking it with a resounding impact. The Cloyster let out a final groan before collapsing, its shell clattering closed as it fainted.

Ashley let out a low whistle, her awe clear as she stepped forward. “That was incredible. Jynx is a total powerhouse.”

Prima smiled, patting Jynx on the shoulder as the Pokémon preened under the praise. “It’s all about strategy, Ashley. Even the strongest opponent has a weakness—you just have to find it. And when you’re at a disadvantage, it’s about using your head, not brute force.”

Ashley crouched beside Mars and Vulcan, who had watched the battle intently. “You guys see that? That’s what we’re aiming for. It’s not just about hitting hard—it’s about hitting smart.”

Mars let out an eager “Char!” while Vulcan barked in agreement, their eyes shining with determination.

Prima crossed her arms, nodding approvingly. “You’ve got good instincts, Ashley. And with practice, you and your team will get there. For now, let’s keep moving—the deeper we go, the more answers we’ll find.”

Ashley stood, adjusting her coat as she gestured for her team to follow. “Lead the way, Professor. We’re ready for whatever comes next.”

Ashley couldn’t help but glance back at Vulcan and Mars, her grin widening. They might not be on Prima and Jynx’s level yet, but they were getting closer with every battle—and she knew they had the potential to take on anything the Pokémon world threw their way.

Ashley’s breath was visible in the frigid air, each puff hanging momentarily before dissipating into the cold as they ventured deeper into the cavern. Her coat, though thick, did little to shield her from the biting chill that seemed to seep from every surface. She hugged herself tightly, trying to stop the shivers that wracked her frame, though her trembling wasn’t solely from the cold.

Down here, in the lowest levels of the Seafoam Islands, everything felt different. The air was denser, the silence heavy, save for the occasional dripping of water or the distant cries of Pokémon. Even the light seemed dimmer, filtered through layers of frost and ice, casting eerie shadows across the uneven walls.

Mars and Vulcan flanked Ashley as they moved, their body heat a welcome relief from the oppressive cold. Vulcan let out a low growl as they passed a cluster of icy stalagmites, his amber eyes darting around suspiciously. Mars, ever more expressive, kept muttering soft “Char-char” sounds under his breath, clearly uneasy.

“Stay close, you two,” Ashley murmured, her hand brushing the Poké Balls at her belt for reassurance. “I don’t think the Pokémon down here are going to roll out the welcome mat for us.”

She wasn’t wrong. The Pokémon they’d encountered on these levels were stronger, faster, and far more aggressive than those above. A trio of Jynx had ambushed them earlier, their synchronized Ice Beams forcing Ashley to think on her feet. She and her team had managed to hold their ground, but it was clear they were in enemy territory now.

Prima, on the other hand, seemed as calm as ever. She moved with practiced ease, her Jynx gliding silently beside her. But Ashley could tell from the slight furrow in her brow and the occasional glance at her satchel that something was bothering her.

“Your tools still on the fritz?” Ashley asked, her voice breaking the uneasy silence.

Prima sighed, adjusting the strap of her bag. “Fritz isn’t the word I’d use. They’re... overwhelmed. The deeper we’ve gone, the less reliable the readings have become. It’s as though the magnetic fields in this area are completely out of sync. I had to put the scanners away—they were practically screaming at me two levels up.”

“Magnetic fields?” Ashley repeated, her curiosity piqued. “What would mess with something like that?”

Prima shrugged, though her expression was thoughtful. “Could be natural—a shift in the Earth’s crust or something affecting the cave’s structure. But the erratic behavior of the Pokémon suggests there’s more to it than that. I’m beginning to suspect there’s an external factor at play.”

Ashley frowned, glancing at Mars and Vulcan, who were now walking shoulder to shoulder, their eyes darting at every noise. “You mean, like, a Pokémon?”

“Possibly,” Prima replied, her tone cautious. “But until we find more evidence, it’s just a theory.”

They pressed on, the passage narrowing until it opened up to reveal a wide, glistening pond that reflected the faint light from above. The water was unnaturally still, its surface like glass, though Ashley could feel the cold radiating from it even from a distance.

Her eyes widened as she spotted movement near the far edge of the pond. A small group of Lapras was gathered there, their elegant forms almost blending with the icy backdrop. One young Lapras broke away from the group, his curious gaze fixed on Ashley and her team.

Ashley’s initial tension melted away as she met its gaze. She smiled, raising a hand in a cheery wave. “Hey there, little guy!” she called, her voice soft but warm.

The young Lapras tilted his head, studying her for a moment before letting out a melodic cry. He waved a flipper back at her, his wide eyes shining with interest.

“That’s adorable,” Ashley whispered, glancing back at Prima. “Can I take him home?”

Prima chuckled, shaking her head as she reached for her own Poké Ball. “Lapras are highly intelligent creatures, but I think this one has its pod to look after. Speaking of which, it’s time for mine to lend a hand.”

With a flick of her wrist, Prima released her own Lapras, the graceful Pokémon appearing in a flash of light. It let out a soft cry of greeting, its gaze sweeping the group before settling on the young Lapras, who chirped excitedly in response.

Mars, however, was less enthused. He let out a loud, dramatic “Charrrr...” and crossed his arms, his tail flicking irritably as he glared at the water.

Ashley sighed, crouching down to meet his pouty gaze. “Come on, Mars. You knew this was coming. Lapras isn’t exactly built to handle your tail flame. I’m not risking you slipping into that water.”

Mars grumbled, his glare softening only slightly.

Ashley reached out, ruffling the top of his head. “Hey, it’s just for the ride, alright? I’ll let you back out as soon as we’re on the other side.”

With a reluctant nod, Mars allowed himself to be recalled, though not without a dramatic flick of his tail. With Vulcan hopping up onto Lapras’s shell beside them, Ashley followed Prima’s lead, carefully climbing aboard. The young Lapras chirped again, watching them intently as Prima’s Lapras began to glide across the pond.

As they moved, Ashley noticed the faint ripple of a current beneath the surface, and her curiosity got the better of her. “Hey, Prima,” she said, glancing at the water. “This looks more like a river than a pond. Where does it lead?”

Prima nodded, her gaze following Ashley’s. “Good observation. This isn’t a pond—it’s the end of an underground river that feeds directly into the sea.”

“Wait, really?” Ashley asked, her eyes widening. “Why didn’t we just take this route to get here?”

Prima chuckled, shaking her head. “Because it’s not exactly traveler-friendly. The river is deep, the current is strong, and the water is freezing. Even with a Lapras, it requires extensive diving to navigate safely. For humans, it’s borderline impossible without specialized gear.”

Ashley let out a low whistle, glancing back at the still, deceptively calm water. “Yeah, okay. Good call. I think I’ll stick to the scenic route.”

Prima smirked, her attention shifting back to the cavern ahead. “Smart choice. Now, let’s see what’s waiting for us on the other side.”

Ashley tightened her grip on Vulcan as they glided forward, the icy air growing colder still. Whatever lay ahead, she had a feeling they were getting closer to the heart of the mystery—and the answers they were searching for.

Lapras glided smoothly to the rocky edge of the cavern, her movements so graceful that the water barely rippled around her. As she slowed to a stop, Prima swung her legs over and stepped onto the frosty ground with practiced ease. Ashley followed close behind, her boots crunching softly against the ice as she hopped off with Vulcan right behind her, shaking himself slightly to ward off the cold.

True to her word, Ashley immediately unclipped Mars’s Poké Ball. With a flash of light, the Charmander reappeared, his tail flame flaring brighter as he stretched and looked around, grumbling softly.

“Alright, drama king, you’re back,” Ashley teased, crouching down to ruffle the top of his head. “And just in time for the next leg of the adventure.”

Mars gave her a look that screamed I told you so, but he leaned into her hand anyway, his grumbles subsiding.

Prima, meanwhile, recalled her Lapras with a quiet word of thanks, the Pokémon disappearing into its Poké Ball in a flash of light. She turned toward the deeper recesses of the cave, her expression calm but her eyes sharp. “We’re getting close,” she said, her voice echoing faintly in the cavern. “The air feels different here—heavier. Stay alert.”

Ashley straightened, nodding as she gestured for her Pokémon to stick close. “You heard the Professor, guys. No wandering off.”

The group moved deeper into the cave, the cold biting harder with each step. The walls, once jagged and rough, now glistened with a smooth, crystalline sheen, as though the ice had been polished to perfection. The air was still, almost unnaturally so, and the faint sound of dripping water had disappeared entirely.

It wasn’t long before the passage widened, opening up into a vast chamber that seemed to shimmer with its own light. Ashley froze mid-step, her breath catching in her throat.

At the center of the chamber was a massive frozen stage, its surface smooth and flawless, like a mirror made of ice. And there, nestled in the very heart of the stage, was the source of the cavern’s ethereal glow: Articuno.

The Legendary Ice bird was perched gracefully on a nest of intricately arranged ice shards, her long, flowing tail curling around her like a cascade of frozen silk. Her feathers glimmered in shades of pale blue and white, each one catching the faint light and refracting it like the facets of a diamond. The downy feathers around her chest and neck were a pristine white, blending seamlessly into the darker, shimmering blue of her wings. Even in slumber, her presence was commanding, her head tucked slightly under one wing, her beak nestled in the soft plumage.

Ashley’s mouth fell open, her hands fumbling for her PokéNav as she stared at the breathtaking sight. “No way,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “That’s Articuno.”

Prima held up a hand, signaling for Ashley to stay quiet. She stepped closer, her movements deliberate and slow as her sharp eyes scanned the scene. “That explains a lot,” she murmured, her voice low. “Articuno doesn’t usually nest here. It prefers solitude, often retreating to its island in the Orange Archipelago. But every now and then, it migrates—and it seems this time, it chose the Seafoam Islands.”

Ashley nodded, still staring in awe as she slowly raised her PokéNav. Her hands shook slightly as she snapped a series of pictures, the device’s faint clicking sound barely audible in the stillness of the chamber. “No wonder there are so many Ice-types down here,” she said, her voice trembling with excitement. “They’re drawn to her, aren’t they? Like she’s... I don’t know, their queen or something.”

Prima nodded, her expression thoughtful. “In a way, yes. Articuno’s presence likely disrupts the natural order here—not intentionally, of course, but it’s inevitable. Her power is immense, and Ice-types can’t help but be drawn to it. That would explain the aggression, too. They’re competing for her attention or approval, even if she’s unaware of it.”

Ashley lowered her PokéNav, her eyes never leaving the Legendary. “She’s... perfect,” she said softly. “Like, I’ve seen pictures in books and stuff, but seeing her in real life? It’s like she’s not even real. She’s too beautiful.”

Mars and Vulcan stood on either side of her, their usual fiery confidence momentarily replaced with quiet awe. Even Mars, who rarely stopped grumbling, was silent, his tail flame dimming slightly as though he didn’t want to disturb the serene atmosphere.

The icy stage around Articuno was equally mesmerizing. The ice wasn’t just cold—it was alive, pulsing faintly with a light that seemed to echo the steady rise and fall of Articuno’s breath. Intricate patterns like frost flowers spread outward from the nest, their delicate shapes shimmering with every subtle movement of the bird’s feathers.

Ashley couldn’t help but take another step closer, her boots crunching softly against the frozen ground. “Prima,” she whispered, “do you think she knows we’re here?”

Prima smiled faintly, her gaze fixed on the Legendary. “She knows. Even in sleep, a Pokémon like Articuno is hyper-aware of its surroundings. But as long as we don’t pose a threat, she won’t react. Articuno is peaceful by nature—it only fights when provoked.”

Ashley nodded, tucking her PokéNav away as she took a deep breath. “Still... it feels like we’re trespassing or something. Like we’re in her throne room.”

Prima chuckled softly. “In a way, we are. Articuno is one of the most regal Pokémon in existence, and this chamber is a reflection of her presence. But don’t worry—we’re not here to harm her or her territory. We’re just observing.”

Ashley relaxed slightly, though her awe remained. Mars let out a soft “Char,” his eyes wide as he watched the Legendary. Vulcan pressed closer to Ashley, his body warm against her side. For a long moment, the group stood in silence, the only sound the faint hum of the icy chamber. Ashley felt a strange sense of peace settle over her, as though Articuno’s presence had temporarily erased all the exhaustion and tension from their journey.

Finally, Prima placed a hand on Ashley’s shoulder, her touch light but firm. “We should move on. As incredible as this is, we still have work to do.”

Ashley nodded, reluctantly standing and taking one last look at the sleeping Legendary. “Yeah,” she said softly. “But this? This is going in the memory books forever.”

With one final glance, the group turned and continued deeper into the cave, the awe of what they’d witnessed lingering with every step.

The climb back up through the icy tunnels felt like a blur. Whether it was the awe of seeing Articuno or the adrenaline that had carried them through the intense cold and aggressive Pokémon, Ashley wasn’t sure. All she knew was that the trip back felt faster—easier somehow—as if the majesty of what they’d witnessed had put everything else into perspective.

Mars and Vulcan padded close to her on the way up, their warmth a constant comfort against the frigid air. Neither of them made their usual chatter; they were as subdued as she was, still processing the encounter. Vulcan occasionally glanced back over his shoulder, as though he half-expected the icy cavern to vanish or Articuno to suddenly stir and take flight. Mars, meanwhile, kept close to Ashley, his tail flame brighter than usual as if he was silently warding off the chill.

When they finally emerged from the mouth of the cave, the brightness of the outside world felt almost shocking after the dim glow of the tunnels. Ashley shielded her eyes with one hand, blinking against the sudden sunlight as a crisp breeze swept over the rocky shore. She stumbled forward a few steps before her knees gave out, and she dropped to the ground, laughing breathlessly.

"Okay, wow," she said, running a hand through her windswept hair. "That was... something else."

Mars and Vulcan rushed to her side, their worried cries pulling her attention. Mars tugged at her sleeve, his amber eyes wide with concern, while Vulcan leaned against her, his warmth a silent question. She waved them off with a tired but genuine smile.

"I’m fine, you guys," she said, reaching out to ruffle Mars’s head and scratch behind Vulcan’s ears. "Just... coming down from the Articuno high, you know? Adrenaline’s a heck of a thing."

Prima wasn’t far behind, her red hair catching the light as she stepped onto the rocky shore. She looked no worse for wear, but there was a weight to her usual calm demeanor. Her Jynx stood beside her, gazing back toward the cave entrance as if keeping watch.

Prima pulled a sleek communication device from her satchel, holding it up as she spoke into it with crisp authority. "Yes, this is Prima. I’m confirming Articuno’s presence in the Seafoam Islands. Effective immediately, I want this location closed off to all trainers and tourists. No exceptions. Ensure the G-Men handle this quietly—we don’t want a stampede of thrill-seekers disturbing the area."

Ashley raised an eyebrow from her spot on the ground, still catching her breath. "Wait, hold up. You can just... do that? Shut down an entire island?"

Prima glanced at her, a faint smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. She finished her call with a curt nod before slipping the device back into her bag. "I don’t usually flaunt it, but yes. As one of the Indigo League Elite Four, I have the authority to take measures like this when it involves Legendary Pokémon or environmental disturbances."

Ashley blinked, her jaw dropping slightly. "You’re—wait, you’re in the Elite Four? Like, the Elite Four?" She slapped her forehead, groaning. "Oh, come on! How did I not put that together? It makes so much sense now!"

Prima chuckled, crouching down beside Ashley with an amused look. "I didn’t think it was relevant to mention earlier. You were doing just fine without knowing."

"Relevant?!" Ashley exclaimed, throwing her hands in the air. "You’re basically a Pokémon celebrity! That’s super relevant!"

Before Prima could respond, a loud splash from the nearby shoreline interrupted them. Ashley turned her head just in time to see the young Lapras from earlier bobbing in the water, his sleek head tilted curiously as he let out a melodic cry. He swam closer, lifting one of his flippers to wave at her in the same playful manner he had back in the cave.

Ashley’s frustration evaporated instantly, replaced by a wide grin. "Well, hey there, little guy," she said, pushing herself up to her feet. She walked to the water’s edge, Mars and Vulcan following close behind. "You came to see us off?"

The Lapras chirped again, splashing the water with his fins in what looked like excitement. He swam even closer, nudging its head against the rocks as though inviting her to come closer.

Prima joined her at the water’s edge, folding her arms as she watched the interaction. "Looks like you made quite the impression back in the cave," she said, her tone light. "It’s not often a wild Lapras seeks out a trainer like this."

Ashley crouched down, reaching out a hand toward the Lapras. The Pokémon didn’t hesitate, leaning in to nuzzle his head against her palm. His skin was smooth and cool to the touch, but there was a warmth in its gaze that made Ashley’s chest tighten.

"You’re incredible, you know that?" she murmured, running her fingers along Lapras’s neck. "Strong, smart, and brave enough to come find us out here. You’ve got the heart of a champion."

The Lapras let out a soft coo, his eyes bright with affection. Prima chuckled, placing a hand on Ashley’s shoulder. "I think it’s safe to say this one’s chosen you," she said. "You might not have gotten to take Articuno home, but it looks like you’ll still be leaving with something rare."

Ashley’s jaw dropped slightly as she turned to Prima. "Wait, you mean... I can catch him?"

Prima nodded, her smile warm. "If he’s willing, then yes. Wild Pokémon only form bonds like this with trainers they trust. It’s a rare opportunity—don’t let it slip away."

Ashley’s heart raced as she pulled an empty Poké Ball from her belt. She held it out, glancing at the Lapras for confirmation. "What do you say, buddy? Want to come with me and see the world?"

The Lapras let out a delighted cry, bobbing his head enthusiastically. With a steady hand, Ashley tapped the Poké Ball against his side. The device opened, drawing the Lapras inside in a flash of light. It shook once, twice, three times before clicking shut.

Ashley stared at the ball in her hand, a grin spreading across her face as the realization sank in. "We did it," she whispered, holding it up for Mars and Vulcan to see. "We’ve got a Lapras!"

Mars let out a triumphant "Char-char!" while Vulcan barked excitedly, his tail wagging furiously. Prima clapped her hands once, her smile broad. "Congratulations, Ashley. That Lapras will make an excellent addition to your team."

Ashley laughed, slipping the Poké Ball into her bag as she turned to face the sea. "This is the best day ever," she said, her voice filled with excitement. "Articuno, a new teammate, and I got to work with an Elite Four member. What’s next, finding Mew?"

Prima chuckled, shaking her head. "One step at a time, Ashley. Let’s focus on getting you to Fuschia City first."

Chapter Text

The journey to Fuschia City was tranquil but tinged with the bittersweet feeling of parting. Ashley sat comfortably on Lapras, Vulcan nestled beside her and Mars perched carefully in her lap, his tail flame flickering steadily. Ashley had finally relented to allow him to ride with them, only if he remained on her lap. Lorelei’s Lapras glided effortlessly through the water, carrying them away from the Seafoam Islands and back toward the mainland. The rhythmic sound of the waves was soothing, but Ashley couldn’t help the pang of excitement and sadness as their adventure together wound down.

Lorelei sat a short distance away on Lapras’s broad shell, her arms crossed, and her sharp eyes fixed on the horizon. The sunlight caught her fiery hair, making it almost glow, but her expression was serious as she finally broke the silence.

“Ashley,” Lorelei began, her tone firm but not unkind. “There’s something we need to discuss before we part ways.”

Ashley looked up from where she’d been absently scratching Vulcan behind the ears. “Yeah? What’s up?”

Lorelei turned slightly to face her, gesturing toward the satchel slung over Ashley’s shoulder. “Those pictures you took of Articuno. They can’t go public. Not now, not ever.”

Ashley blinked, momentarily startled by the gravity in Lorelei’s voice. “I wasn’t planning to post them or anything, if that’s what you’re worried about. I mean, who would even believe me?”

Lorelei’s lips twitched into a brief smile, but the seriousness didn’t leave her eyes. “It’s not just about credibility. Articuno’s presence in the Seafoam Islands is delicate. If word gets out, the area will be overrun with trainers and tourists trying to catch a glimpse—or worse, trying to capture it. That kind of disturbance could throw the entire ecosystem into chaos.”

Ashley nodded quickly, her expression earnest. “I get it. I’ll keep them private. Only Professor Oak will see them—promise.”

Lorelei studied her for a moment before nodding in approval. “Good. I knew I could count on you.” She adjusted her position slightly, leaning back with a more relaxed posture. “You’ve got a good head on your shoulders, Ashley. Not every trainer your age would handle a situation like this with as much maturity.”

Ashley grinned, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks. “Thanks, Lorelei. That means a lot coming from you.”

The journey continued in comfortable silence for a while, the sea breeze ruffling Ashley’s hair as she leaned into the warmth of her Pokémon. It wasn’t until they were nearing Fuschia City that Lorelei broke the quiet again, her tone shifting to something more thoughtful.

“Speaking of rewards,” Lorelei began, turning slightly to face Ashley again, “you’ve earned more than just experience from this little venture.”

Ashley sat up straighter, curiosity sparking in her eyes. “Oh? Like what?”

Lorelei smirked, reaching into her coat pocket and pulling out a small, sleek device. “First, I’m authorizing your trainer account to carry more than six active Poké Balls. Normally, that privilege is reserved for League members or highly vetted trainers, but after what I’ve seen from you, I think you can handle it.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped. “Wait—seriously? I can carry more than six? Like, at the same time?”

Lorelei chuckled at her reaction, lining up her device with Ashley’s Pokédex. “Don’t get too carried away. Just because you can doesn’t mean you should. Managing a larger team is a huge responsibility. But this will give you more flexibility as you build your roster.”

Ashley looked at her Pokédex reverently, turning it over in her hands as if it were made of gold. “This is way cooler than money,” she said, grinning from ear to ear.

“I thought you might feel that way,” Lorelei said, her smirk widening. “But that’s not all.”

Ashley looked up, her excitement evident. “There’s more?”

Lorelei nodded. “I’ve also decided to gift you a rare Ice-type Pokémon. Something special, to commemorate our adventure.”

“An Ice-type? Really? What kind of Pokémon is it?” Ashley’s eyes widened.

Lorelei laughed, holding up a hand to stop her. “Not so fast. I haven’t decided which one yet. I want to find the perfect fit for you and your team. That might take some time, but when I’ve made my choice, you’ll be the first to know.”

Ashley’s excitement didn’t waver in the slightest. If anything, it grew. “Take all the time you need, Lorelei. This is so much better than money. Seriously, thank you!”

Lorelei waved a hand dismissively, though her smile softened. “You’ve earned it. And who knows? Maybe one day you’ll have an Ice-type as legendary as Articuno in your roster.”

Ashley laughed, hugging Mars closer as Vulcan let out an excited bark. “One step at a time, right? But don’t think I won’t hold you to that promise.”

Lorelei shook her head, her laughter mingling with Ashley’s as Lapras began its final approach to Fuschia City. As the docks came into view, the excitement in Ashley’s chest bubbled over. Her team had grown, her knowledge had expanded, and she was leaving with more than she’d ever dreamed.

For a moment, she looked back at the horizon, where the Seafoam Islands were now just a faint outline in the distance. “Thanks for everything, Articuno,” she whispered, her voice carrying just enough for Mars and Vulcan to hear.

Lorelei watched her with a knowing look but said nothing, allowing the moment to settle. Lapras slid smoothly into the dock, and they began to disembark. Once secured on ground, Ashley spun around to beam at the young Lapras that had been following them closely and silently. He cranned his long neck toward her with a cheerful cry as he settled into the shallow water near the edge of the dock. Ashley grinned as she crouched down to his level, brushing her fingers along his smooth, glistening skin.

“Alright, big guy,” she said, her tone playful but affectionate. “Now that you’re officially part of the team, we’ve got to get you a name. Can’t just keep calling you ‘Lapras.’”

The Lapras tilted his head, his deep blue eyes filled with curiosity.

Ashley tapped her chin thoughtfully, her other hand resting on Mars to keep him steady. “All of my Pokémon are named after Gods from an ancient civilization. Mars, Vulcan...” She gestured to the Charmander and Growlithe, who both perked up at the mention of their names. “So, it’s only fair you get the same treatment. Let’s see... something fitting for the ruler of the seas...”

She paused, a wide grin spreading across her face as inspiration struck. “What about Neptune? God of the seas and all that. Pretty cool, huh?”

The Lapras let out an excited cry, his fins splashing the water in a way that made it clear he approved of her choice.

Ashley laughed, her eyes sparkling. “Neptune it is, then. Welcome to the team!”

She pulled out her Pokédex and scanned Neptune, eager to see his stats. As the screen lit up with the information, she read aloud for Mars and Vulcan’s benefit, even though she was mostly talking to herself.

“Alright, let’s see what we’re working with here. Neptune’s a Water/Ice type—duh—gender: male, ability: Shell Armor. Oh, that’s a nice one! No critical hits for you, buddy.” She winked at Neptune, who gave her a proud little nod.

Her eyes widened as she continued reading. “Moves: Water Gun, Sing, Mist, Life Dew, Ice Shard, and Body Slam. Dang, Neptune, you’ve got some variety! And... oh, wait. Hold up.” She scrolled down, her jaw dropping slightly. “Hidden Ability: Hydration. Are you kidding me? That’s amazing!”

Mars and Vulcan exchanged curious glances, neither entirely sure what all the fuss was about, but they barked and growled their approval anyway. Neptune, on the other hand, puffed out his chest proudly, his fins flexing in the water.

Ashley tapped the Pokédex’s screen, mentally running through the implications of Neptune’s abilities. “Okay, Hydration’s super useful. If we’re ever in the rain, you can heal any status conditions automatically. And with moves like Sing and Life Dew, you’re gonna be amazing in battles and support. You’re not just a tank—you’re a tactical powerhouse.”

She leaned back on her heels, her hands on her hips as she gave Neptune a teasing grin. “You’re officially the MVP of water transport and battles. No pressure, though.”

Neptune let out a playful trill, flicking his tail to splash a small wave at Ashley. The water caught her square in the face, making her yelp in surprise as Mars burst into laughter, his small claws clutching her shoulder for balance. Vulcan barked happily, wagging his tail as he danced away from the splash zone.

“Oh, it’s on now,” Ashley said, wiping her face with a dramatic flair. She stood up, pretending to shake her fist at Neptune. “I name you, and this is how you thank me? You’re lucky I like you already.”

Neptune responded with a cheeky cry, clearly enjoying the attention.

Lorelei, who had been watching the exchange with an amused smile, stepped forward, her Jynx by her side. “He’s a good fit for you,” she said, her voice warm. “Lapras are intelligent and loyal. Neptune’s going to take you far, Ashley.”

Ashley turned to face her, her grin softening into something more sincere. “Thanks, Prima. For everything. I mean it. The last impromptu lesson in how to train the Lapras species. The adventure at Seafoam Island. This whole experience? It’s been incredible. I’ll never forget it.”

Lorelei placed a hand on her shoulder, her eyes filled with quiet pride. “You’ve earned it, Ashley. Keep taking care of your team the way you have, and you’ll go far. Just remember—training isn’t just about battles. It’s about understanding your Pokémon, building trust, and growing together. And do call me whenever you have questions about your newest member!”

“I will!” Ashley waved happily, still not believing she had Lorelei’s PokéNav number. “And hey, when you find that perfect Ice-type for me, you know where to find me, right?”

Lorelei chuckled, stepping back as Jynx gave a graceful wave. “You’ll be the first to know.”

As Lorelei prepared to depart, Ashley turned back to Neptune, Mars, and Vulcan, her heart swelling with gratitude and excitement. “Alright, team,” she said, placing her hands on her hips. “Fuschia City, here we come. Let’s make it count.”

Ashley clicked the button on Neptune’s Poké Ball, recalling the Lapras in a flash of red light. The ball snapped shut with a satisfying click, and she held it up with a grin. “Alright, Neptune, you earned a rest. We’ll break you out again soon—promise.”

Mars gave a huff, crossing his little arms as if to say, We’ll see about that. Vulcan, ever the calmer of the two, nudged Ashley’s leg with his nose, his tail wagging lightly.

“Alright, you two,” Ashley said, planting her hands on her hips. “Let’s get moving. The Pokémon Center’s calling your name, and I’m pretty sure Nurse Joy’s got her work cut out for her after all the chaos we’ve been through.”

Mars perked up at the mention of the Center, his tail flicking excitedly as he bounded ahead. Vulcan trotted beside Ashley, ever the loyal companion, his amber eyes scanning the streets as they made their way through Fuschia City.

The town had its usual quiet, traditional charm. The locals went about their business in hushed tones, their heads nodding politely to Ashley as she passed. It was a far cry from the bustle of Cinnabar Island, but Ashley found herself liking the calm—at least for now.

They reached the Pokémon Center, the automatic doors sliding open with a soft whoosh. Nurse Joy was at the counter, as always, her pink hair perfectly in place despite the busy day. A Chansey stood beside her, organizing a tray of Potions and Antidotes.

Ashley approached the counter, unclipping her three Poké Balls from her belt and holding them out. “Hey, Nurse Joy! Could you give my team a thorough check-up? They’ve been through a lot—battling, training, and some... uh... icy adventures.”

Nurse Joy smiled warmly, accepting the Poké Balls with practiced ease. “Of course, Ashley. I’ll make sure Mars, Vulcan, and Neptune are in perfect shape. It might take a little longer than usual—Seafoam Islands can be tough on Pokémon.”

Ashley nodded, leaning against the counter with a tired grin. “Take all the time you need. They’ve earned the rest.”

As Nurse Joy handed the Poké Balls to Chansey, who whisked them away to the back, Ashley stretched her arms over her head, letting out a dramatic groan. “Guess that means it’s shower and nap time for me,” she muttered to herself.

Nurse Joy chuckled softly. “Your room is ready whenever you are. Just let me know if you need anything.”

“Thanks, Nurse Joy. You’re the best,” Ashley said, giving her a mock salute before heading down the hallway to her assigned room.

The moment she stepped inside, Ashley kicked off her shoes with a sigh of relief. The room was small but cozy, with a neatly made bed, a nightstand, and a small bathroom. A faint scent of lavender lingered in the air—a fitting touch for Fuschia City.

Ashley tossed her bag onto the chair in the corner, her hat following shortly after as she ran a hand through her messy black hair. She made a beeline for the bathroom, twisting the shower knob and letting the water run until it was hot enough to steam up the mirror.

As she stepped under the spray, Ashley let out a contented sigh, the warmth washing away the chill that still clung to her from the Seafoam Islands. She tilted her head back, letting the water cascade over her face and down her back, easing the tension in her muscles.

Her thoughts drifted as she scrubbed her hair, the events of the day replaying in her mind. Articuno. Neptune. Prima’s wisdom. It felt surreal, like something out of a dream. But the faint ache in her legs and the sting of a few lingering scrapes reminded her it had all been real.

After what felt like an eternity, Ashley finally stepped out of the shower, wrapping herself in a fluffy towel as she wiped the fog from the mirror. Her reflection stared back at her, a mix of exhaustion and pride in her eyes.

“Not bad, Ketchum,” she muttered, smirking at herself. “Not bad at all.”

She padded back into the room, flopping onto the bed with a dramatic sigh. The mattress was soft, the blankets warm, and she could feel the pull of sleep tugging at her already. But her mind was too wired to fully relax yet.

Reaching for her PokéNav on the nightstand, Ashley opened the photo gallery and scrolled through the pictures she’d taken that day. Neptune’s mischievous grin. Mars and Vulcan in action. And, of course, the breathtaking images of Articuno. She lingered on the last one, her thumb brushing over the screen.

“I’ll keep my promise,” she whispered, her voice soft. “Just Oak. No one else.”

Setting the PokéNav aside, Ashley let herself sink further into the pillows, her damp hair splayed out around her. Her eyelids felt heavy, but she knew sleep wouldn’t come until her team was back in her arms. Until then, she’d rest and recharge.

As Ashley sprawled out on the bed, her PokéNav vibrated on the nightstand. She groaned dramatically, rolling over and stretching an arm to grab it. “Who’s calling me now? Can’t a girl just lie here and bask in her own awesomeness for five minutes?” she muttered, her voice muffled by the pillow.

She flipped the device open and blinked at the name on the screen. Professor Oak. A grin spread across her face as she answered the call. “Hey, Professor! What’s up? Miss me already?”

Professor Oak’s warm chuckle crackled through the speaker. “Ah, Ashley! I see you’re in good spirits. I take it your adventure to the Seafoam Islands went well?”

“‘Well, is an understatement,” Ashley said, sitting up and crossing her legs on the bed. “It was insane, Professor. Do you have any idea what I just went through?”

“I was hoping you’d fill me in,” Oak said, his tone curious but calm. “Though I must say, I’m quite eager to hear about it. Prima spoke very highly of you.”

Ashley leaned back against the headboard, her grin turning mischievous. “Oh, yeah? Prima, huh? You mean Lorelei? The Elite Four member you conveniently forgot to mention?”

There was a brief pause, and then Oak’s chuckle returned, tinged with amusement. “Ah, so the secret’s out. I thought it might make for a nice surprise.”

Ashley huffed, puffing out her cheeks like an annoyed Jigglypuff. “Nice surprise? Professor, you sent me off with someone who can take down half the League in her sleep! You couldn’t have given me a heads-up? A little ‘by the way, she’s kind of a big deal’?”

“I thought you might perform better if you didn’t feel the pressure of her status,” Oak admitted, his voice light but thoughtful. “And from what I’ve heard, you more than rose to the occasion.”

Ashley’s faux-annoyed pout faded, and she felt a warmth creep into her chest. “Well... yeah. I guess I kinda did, huh? Not to brag or anything.” She paused, her grin returning as she added, “Okay, totally to brag. I crushed it out there, Professor.”

“Why don’t you tell me all about it?” Oak prompted, his tone encouraging.

Ashley launched into a detailed recount of her adventure, starting with her arrival at the Seafoam Islands and the battles with the wild Ice-types. She described working with Prima—er, Lorelei—learning about Hidden Power, and even naming Neptune. Oak listened intently, offering the occasional hum of interest or question to clarify a detail.

But when Ashley got to the part about Articuno, her tone softened, and her words slowed. “And then, Professor... we saw her. Articuno. The actual Legendary Pokémon. She was just... there. Nesting. Sleeping. Right in front of us.”

There was a long pause on the other end of the line before Oak’s voice returned, quieter this time. “Articuno, you say? That’s... extraordinary, Ashley. Truly extraordinary. What did you do?”

“Nothing,” Ashley admitted, running a hand through her damp hair. “We didn’t wake her up or anything. Prima—uh, Lorelei—explained how delicate the situation was. She’s already called for the Seafoam Islands to be closed off until Articuno leaves. She said we have to protect her, and, honestly? I agree.”

Oak’s voice carried a note of pride. “That’s a very mature decision, Ashley. I’m glad you had someone as experienced as Lorelei with you. And I’m even more glad you understood the importance of respecting Articuno’s space.”

Ashley’s cheeks flushed, and she fiddled with the edge of the blanket. “Yeah, well... I’m not just some rookie trainer, you know? I get how big a deal this is. I mean, I even promised Lorelei I’d only share the pictures with you. No one else.”

“That was very wise,” Oak said, his tone approving. “And I appreciate your trust. If you do send those photos, I’ll ensure they’re handled with the utmost care. But tell me, Ashley—how are you feeling after all this? It’s not every day a trainer has such an encounter.”

Ashley let out a long breath, her gaze drifting to the ceiling. “Honestly? It still feels kinda surreal. Like, did that really happen? Did I really just see one of the Legendary Birds? But at the same time, I feel... I don’t know. Inspired, I guess? Like, if I can handle this, I can handle anything.”

Oak chuckled warmly. “That’s the spirit. And if I may say so, Ashley, I think this experience will serve you well as you continue your journey. You’ve proven yourself to be a capable and thoughtful trainer—and those qualities will take you far.”

Ashley couldn’t help the grin that spread across her face. “Thanks, Professor. That means a lot coming from you.”

“And before I forget,” Oak added, his tone lightening, “Lorelei also mentioned your new Lapras. Neptune, was it? A fine addition to your team.”

“You bet he is!” Ashley said, sitting up straighter. “He’s got Shell Armor and Hydration. Plus, his moveset? Water Gun, Sing, Mist, Life Dew, Ice Shard, Body Slam—he’s already a powerhouse! I can’t wait to see what he can do once we start training.”

Oak’s chuckle carried a note of pride. “It sounds like Neptune is in very good hands. I’ll be looking forward to hearing more about his progress—and yours, of course.”

“You’ll get updates,” Ashley promised, her voice brimming with excitement. “And next time? Maybe I’ll have another Legendary story to share.”

Oak laughed, the warmth in his tone palpable even through the device. “I’ll hold you to that. Take care, Ashley—and give my regards to your team.”

“Will do, Professor. Talk to you soon!”

As the call ended, Ashley set her PokéNav back on the nightstand, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. She flopped back onto the bed, staring at the ceiling as the weight of the day’s events finally began to sink in.

“Legendary encounters, new teammates, and praise from the Professor,” she murmured, her grin widening. “Not bad for a day’s work, huh, guys?”

Though her Pokémon were still with Nurse Joy, Ashley could almost hear their voices responding in her mind—Mars’s eager cheer, Vulcan’s steady bark, and Neptune’s melodic trill.

With a contented sigh, she closed her eyes, letting the promise of tomorrow carry her into a well-earned rest.  

No sooner had Ashley set her PokéNav down than it buzzed again, the vibrations rattling against the wooden nightstand. She groaned, half-laughing as she rolled over to grab it. "What now? Mars, Vulcan, did one of you call to complain about the snacks at the Pokémon Center?"

Flipping the device open, her expression softened when she saw the names: Mom & Dad.

"Hey, Mom, Dad!" Ashley greeted, her voice light and cheerful as she sat up on the bed. "What’s up?"

Delia’s voice came through first, warm and effervescent as always. "We missed you, sweetie! Your dad and I were just talking about you, and we have some exciting news!"

Ashley perked up immediately, sitting cross-legged on the bed. "Oh? What’s the big news? Did Flareon finally figure out how to use Hyper Beam? Or did Mimey convince Dad to cook dinner instead of just grilling every night?"

Her dad’s chuckle rumbled through the speaker. "Funny. But no, this is even better. Flareon and Raichu had their Pokémon Egg hatch not long after you started your journey."

Ashley’s jaw dropped, her hand instinctively clutching her chest. "Wait, what? Flareon and Raichu had an egg? Why didn’t you tell me sooner?! That’s huge!"

Delia chimed in quickly, her voice carrying that motherly excitement. "We wanted it to be a surprise! And now that the baby’s hatched, we thought it was the perfect time to tell you."

Ashley flopped back onto the bed, laughing in disbelief. "You two are sneaky, you know that? Alright, spill—what’s the baby? Boy or girl? Is it cute? Is it ridiculously overpowered like Raichu? C’mon, I need details!"

Her dad’s voice came back, calm and steady as always. "It’s an Eevee. Healthy, energetic, and already causing mischief around the house. Flareon and Raichu are both keeping a close eye on him, but he’s got a lot of energy. He’s been knocking over plants and trying to climb up the counters."

Ashley’s eyes sparkled. "An Eevee? No way! That’s amazing!" She paused, a grin spreading across her face. "And, uh, what’s this about climbing counters? Are you saying this Eevee might have inherited Raichu’s knack for trouble?"

Delia’s laugh was melodic as she added, "Oh, you should see it, Ashley. Flareon tries to keep him grounded, but Raichu just laughs and encourages him. It’s adorable, really."

Ashley could practically picture it—Flareon’s stern but loving attempts to discipline the energetic Eevee while Raichu cheered him on mischievously. She shook her head, her grin never fading.

"Okay, so what’s the plan?" Ashley asked, sitting back up. "When do I get to meet this little rascal?"

Her dad’s voice softened slightly. "We are planning on waiting until he is ready to train and get him prepared so he’ll be ready for you. Flareon and Raichu are doing an amazing job, but they asked for time with him before he joins your team."

“Aw, that’s so sweet,” Ashley placed a hand over her heart, touched by the thought. "Wait! He is joining me? Thank you! Of course they’d want that time. I’d never take that away from them."

“You are welcome sweetie,” Delia’s voice returned, brimming with excitement. "Are you ready to have a new addition to your team, sweetie?"

"Ready?" Ashley said, her grin stretching wide. "Mom, I was born ready! An Eevee? That’s like the dream Pokémon! They’re adorable, versatile, and you never know which way they’re gonna evolve. He’s gonna fit right in with my team."

Her dad chuckled. "Just don’t let him run circles around you. He’s got a lot of spirit, and if you’re not careful, he’ll be the one leading you instead of the other way around."

Ashley laughed, leaning back against the headboard. "Don’t worry, Dad. I’ve got this. If I can handle a pouty Charmander and a cheeky Lapras, an Eevee’s gonna be a breeze."

“You caught a Lapras? Congratulation, sweetie!” Delia’s voice softened, filled with pride. "We know you’ll do great, Ashley. Flareon and Raichu wouldn’t have suggested this if they didn’t trust you completely. And we’re so proud of how far you’ve come already."

Ashley swallowed the lump in her throat, her voice warm but steady. "Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad. That means a lot."

After a few more minutes of chatting—mostly Delia gushing about how cute Eevee was and her dad reminding Ashley to stock up on supplies—the call came to an end. As the PokéNav’s screen went dark, Ashley sat in thoughtful silence for a moment.

"A new Pokémon," she murmured to herself, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "An Eevee, no less. This journey just keeps getting better and better."

She flopped back onto the bed, staring at the ceiling as her mind raced with possibilities. What kind of partner would this Eevee be? What adventures would they share? And, most importantly, what path would this Eevee’s evolution take?

As excitement bubbled in her chest, Ashley let out a contented sigh. "One thing’s for sure," she said aloud, her voice light and confident. "This team’s gonna be unstoppable."

With that thought, she finally let herself relax, closing her eyes and letting the day’s excitement carry her into a well-earned rest. Ashley had just begun to drift off when the familiar chime of her PokéNav jolted her awake. She groaned, her hand fumbling for the device on the nightstand. “What now?” she muttered, squinting at the message notification.

Nurse Joy: Your Pokémon are ready for pick-up!

She sat up quickly, a sleepy but eager grin spreading across her face. “Finally,” she said, her excitement pushing aside any lingering grogginess. Swinging her legs off the bed, she grabbed her hat, slipped on her shoes, and headed out of the room.

The Pokémon Center was quiet in the late evening, the hum of the lights and the faint chatter of a trainer speaking softly to his Chansey the only sounds. Ashley approached the counter where Nurse Joy greeted her with a warm smile.

“Hello, Ashley,” Nurse Joy said, holding a tray with three Poké Balls. “Mars, Vulcan, and Neptune are all in excellent health. They’ve been quite the talk among the staff—such polite Pokémon.”

Ashley laughed sheepishly, scratching the back of her head. “Well, they’ve had a lot of practice lately. Thanks for taking care of them, Nurse Joy. You’re the real MVP.”

Nurse Joy chuckled, sliding the tray across the counter. “It’s my pleasure. Remember to give them some rest—they’ve certainly earned it.”

“I will,” Ashley promised, carefully clipping the Poké Balls back onto her belt. “Thanks again!”

Heading outside, Ashley inhaled deeply, the crisp night air filling her lungs. Fuschia City was serene at this hour, the muted glow of lanterns giving the old, cobblestone streets an almost magical ambiance. She stepped onto the grass nearby and released Vulcan and Mars in flashes of red light.

Mars landed on the ground with his usual boundless energy, stretching his little arms and letting out a cheerful, “Char!” His tail flame flickered brightly, reflecting his good mood. Vulcan was calmer but no less enthusiastic, wagging his tail and nudging Ashley’s hand with his nose.

“Welcome back, guys!” Ashley said, crouching to pat both of them. “Feeling good? Nurse Joy said you’re in top shape.”

Mars puffed out his chest, clearly proud, while Vulcan let out a soft bark of agreement.

“Alright,” Ashley began, her tone shifting to something more serious as she sat cross-legged on the ground. “We need to talk. Listen, I know we’ve been on fire lately—literally and figuratively—but we’ve also been pushing ourselves hard. A whole month of training, earning a badge, and then... well, you know, the whole Articuno in the Seafoam Islands thing.”

Vulcan tilted his head, his ears flicking as he listened intently. Mars crossed his arms, frowning slightly like he knew where this was going.

“Don’t give me that look, Mars,” Ashley said with a laugh, poking his side. “You’re just as beat as I am, and you know it. And Neptune? He’s amazing, but he’s new—he needs time to adjust. What I’m saying is...” She paused, making sure she had their full attention. “We need a break. Just for a day or two. No battles, no training. Just... relaxing. Being tourists.”

Vulcan let out a bark of approval, his tail wagging harder. Mars, on the other hand, looked skeptical, tapping his foot.

Ashley rolled her eyes. “Oh, come on, Mars. You’re telling me you don’t want to explore this place? Like we did Cinnabar Island? Fuschia City is awesome—it’s so old-school and different from anywhere we’ve been so far. There’s cool architecture, history, and probably some great food.”

Mars huffed but eventually nodded, his tail flame flickering a little brighter.

“See? I knew you’d come around,” Ashley said, ruffling the Charmander’s head. She stood, brushing off her pants. “Alright, team, let’s go see what Fuschia City has to offer!”

She took a step toward the road, but then paused, a yawn slipping out. The cobblestone path stretched ahead, dimly lit by lanterns swaying in the night breeze. Ashley blinked, realizing just how late it was. Her shoulders sagged. “...Or, maybe we should do that in the morning,” she admitted with a sheepish laugh. “Tourism is probably enjoyed better when you’re not half-asleep.”

Ashley guided them back to their room, and soon enough they were curled up in bunks, Mars’s flame gently crackling at the foot of his bed. When morning came, the first rays of sunlight spilled through the paper-paneled windows, painting the room in soft amber. Ashley stretched until her back popped, then grinned at her team. “Alright—now we can see what Fuschia’s got!”

They had a quick breakfast and soon they found themselves walking through the cobblestone streets, all while Ashley marveled at the town’s unique charm. The buildings were a mix of traditional and modern, with wooden beams and ornate carvings that spoke of a rich history. Lanterns hung from posts, their soft light casting long shadows that danced with the breeze.

They passed a small outdoor market where vendors sold handmade trinkets, incense, and herbs. Ashley stopped to admire a display of amulets said to bring luck in battles. Mars poked at one with a claw, his curiosity getting the better of him.

“Careful, buddy,” Ashley said, laughing as she tugged him back. “We’re here to look, not break things.”

Vulcan sniffed at a stall selling freshly baked pastries, his nose twitching eagerly. The vendor, a kind-looking older woman, chuckled and handed him a small piece of bread.

“Looks like someone’s got a sweet tooth,” Ashley teased, patting Vulcan’s head as he wagged his tail happily.

They continued their exploration through Fuchsia City, the vibrant streets buzzing with life, but it wasn’t long before Ashley’s curiosity led them to a grand building nestled at the edge of the city—a structure adorned with intricately carved pillars and banners featuring silhouettes of legendary Pokémon. Above the large wooden doors, gilded letters spelled out: Fuchsia City Museum of Pokémon History and Culture.

Ashley’s eyes lit up, and she practically skipped to the entrance, her Fire-types trotting behind her. “A museum? Oh, this is gonna be good! Come on, guys, we’re about to dive into some serious history!”

Mars let out a skeptical “Char...” his tail flicking lazily as if to say, History? Really? Vulcan, however, barked in approval, his tail wagging in anticipation.

Inside, the air was cool and filled with the faint smell of polished wood and aged parchment. The grand hall opened up into several wings, each one dedicated to different regions, historical periods, and Pokémon lore. Glass cases filled with artifacts stretched out in every direction, while large paintings and diagrams adorned the walls. Ashley’s excitement skyrocketed as she took it all in.

“Okay, where do we start?” she said, spinning in a small circle as her eyes darted from one exhibit to the next. “Oh! Look at that!” She pointed to a towering display featuring a detailed statue of Lugia, the guardian of the seas, its wings spread wide as if ready to take flight.

She practically dragged her Pokémon to the statue, standing in awe as she read the accompanying plaque aloud. “Lugia: said to be the master of the seas, capable of calming even the most ferocious storms. It’s believed to reside in the Whirl Islands.” Ashley sighed dreamily. “One day, I’m gonna see a legendary Pokémon like this up close.”

Mars crossed his arms, giving the statue a dismissive glance before turning his attention to a nearby bench. He hopped up, lounging with a bored expression. Vulcan, however, stayed by Ashley’s side, his ears perking up as he sniffed the air, his eyes darting toward another exhibit.

Ashley noticed his sudden interest and followed his gaze. “What’s got your attention, buddy?” she asked, crouching beside him. Vulcan barked softly, nudging her leg before trotting toward a smaller wing of the museum marked Fire and Flame: The Lore of Fire-Type Pokémon.

“Oh, you’ve got good taste,” Ashley said, grinning as she trailed after him. “Let’s check it out!”

The wing was dimly lit, the exhibits glowing softly under strategically placed spotlights. Ashley’s breath caught as she took in the displays—beautifully preserved carvings of ancient Fire-types, old trainer journals detailing the bond between humans and their fiery partners, and even a collection of fire-themed artifacts like torches and volcanic stones.

Vulcan stopped in front of a glass case containing a sleek, fire-blackened sword with intricate patterns etched into the blade. The plaque below read: The Blade of Cinder—Believed to Belong to an Ancient Fire Pokémon Trainer.

“Whoa,” Ashley murmured, crouching beside Vulcan again. “Look at this. Can you imagine what kind of battles this sword must’ve seen? It’s like something straight out of a storybook.”

Vulcan barked softly, his amber eyes reflecting the soft glow of the exhibit as he stared at the blade, clearly intrigued. Ashley couldn’t help but smile at his interest.

As they moved further down the wing, another exhibit caught Vulcan’s eye. This one featured a massive mural depicting a fierce battle between a trainer and a Moltres, the Legendary Fire Bird. The flames were painted in vibrant hues of orange and gold, and the trainer’s silhouette stood tall, their hand outstretched toward the bird as if commanding it.

“Check this out, Vulcan,” Ashley said, gesturing to the mural. “That’s Moltres. Blaine told me about it once—it’s a legendary Fire-type that’s supposed to embody the essence of flame. Some people think it’s responsible for reigniting volcanoes and keeping the world’s fire in balance.”

Vulcan tilted his head, his eyes glued to the painting as if he were trying to memorize every detail. Ashley chuckled, resting a hand on his head. “Maybe one day we’ll see one of those, huh? You’d totally go toe-to-toe with a Moltres and come out looking awesome.”

Mars, meanwhile, wandered over with an exaggerated yawn, glancing up at the mural before giving Ashley a look that clearly said, We done here yet?

Ashley laughed, standing up and brushing off her knees. “Alright, fine, Mars. One last thing, and then we’ll go grab some snacks.” She turned to Vulcan with a teasing grin. “But for the record, at least one of you has good taste in museums.”

They moved to the final exhibit in the wing, which featured a timeline of Fire-type Pokémon’s evolution over the centuries—both in biology and in their roles alongside humans. Ashley scanned the plaques, her notebook already out as she jotted down interesting tidbits.

“Did you know,” she said, pointing at one of the displays, “that ancient trainers used to carry fireproof cloaks because their Fire-types’ flames weren’t as controlled back then? They had to bond with their Pokémon and teach them how to regulate their power.” She glanced at Vulcan and Mars, smirking. “Good thing you two are pros, huh?”

Mars gave an exaggerated huff but puffed out a small ember from his mouth, clearly showing off. Vulcan barked in amusement, nudging Ashley’s leg.

By the time they left, the stars were twinkling overhead, and Ashley felt a sense of peace she hadn’t realized she needed. She looked down at her team, her grin wide. “See? I told you a break would be good for us.”

Mars let out a reluctant “Char...” but nodded, while Vulcan barked in agreement.

“Alright, let’s head back to the Pokémon Center and call it a night,” Ashley said, leading the way. As they walked, she couldn’t help but feel grateful for this quiet moment. Tomorrow would bring new challenges, but for now, she was exactly where she needed to be—with her team, exploring the world one step at a time.

The Pokémon Center came into view as Ashley strolled through Fuschia City’s lantern-lit streets, but something caught her eye just before she reached the doors—a small clothing shop nestled between two larger buildings. Its display window was framed with paper lanterns, and inside, mannequins wore flowing kimonos in vibrant patterns.

Ashley stopped in her tracks, her curiosity piqued. “Ooh, fancy! What do you think, guys? Should we check it out?”

Mars tilted his head, his tail flame casting a soft glow on the cobblestones. Vulcan barked softly, nudging her leg in approval.

“Guess that’s a yes,” Ashley said with a grin. “Alright, fashionistas, let’s see what they’ve got!”

The shop’s bell jingled softly as they entered, the warmth of the interior immediately enveloping them. The walls were lined with racks of kimonos, each one more beautiful than the last. Soft traditional music played in the background, adding to the serene atmosphere.

“Welcome!” a cheerful voice called. An older woman with kind eyes and silver hair emerged from behind the counter. She gave Ashley a warm smile before her gaze shifted to Mars and Vulcan. “Ah, and what lovely companions you have! Please, feel free to look around.”

Ashley returned the smile, giving the woman a quick nod before wandering deeper into the shop. Mars poked at a rack with his claw, his curious expression making Ashley laugh.

“Careful, Mars,” she teased, gently pulling him back. “We don’t need you setting anything on fire. These kimonos look expensive!”

Vulcan, meanwhile, sniffed at a folded display of fabric near the counter, his tail wagging slightly. The shopkeeper chuckled, crouching down to pat his head. “You’ve got a calm one here,” she said, her tone affectionate.

Ashley laughed softly. “He’s my rock. The little guy over there?” She gestured toward Mars, who was now eyeing a bright red kimono with golden embroidery. “He’s the troublemaker.”

The shopkeeper smiled knowingly and straightened; her hands clasped in front of her. “Troublemakers keep life exciting, don’t they?”

“Exciting’s one word for it,” Ashley said with a grin.

As she moved through the racks, her fingers brushed against the soft, silky fabric of the kimonos. There were so many styles—some bold and vibrant, others muted and elegant. One in particular caught her eye: a deep fuschia kimono adorned with delicate golden patterns resembling swirling wind and falling leaves.

“Whoa,” Ashley breathed, holding it up to get a better look. The fabric shimmered slightly in the light, and she couldn’t help but imagine how it would look on her.

The shopkeeper approached, her smile widening. “Ah, you have excellent taste. That one is inspired by Fuschia City’s autumn breezes. It would suit you well.”

Ashley glanced down at Mars and Vulcan. “What do you guys think? Is it me?”

Mars tilted his head, his tail flame flickering thoughtfully before he let out a decisive “Char!” Vulcan barked in agreement, his tail wagging harder.

“Alright, alright,” Ashley said, laughing. “If my team approves, who am I to argue?”

She brought the kimono to the counter, where the shopkeeper carefully folded it and placed it in a paper bag adorned with lavender sprigs. “You’ll look lovely in this,” the woman said, handing the bag to Ashley.

“Thanks,” Ashley said, feeling a warm sense of accomplishment as she tucked the bag under her arm. “This is gonna be perfect for when I want to feel... I don’t know, fancy or something.”

Mars gave her a cheeky look, as if to say, Fancy? You?

Ashley ruffled his head with a grin. “Don’t give me that look, mister. Even trainers can have style.”

With her purchase in hand, Ashley led her team back out onto the street. The night was quiet, the faint sound of a distant flute drifting through the air. The lanterns cast long, dancing shadows, and the cool breeze carried the scent of lavender and woodsmoke.

“Alright, boys,” Ashley said, adjusting the bag on her arm. “I’d say that wraps up a pretty awesome first day in Fuschia City. What do you think?”

Mars let out a triumphant “Char-char!” while Vulcan barked in agreement.

Ashley laughed, feeling a lightness in her chest. “Yeah, I think so too. Let’s get back to the Pokémon Center and call it a night. Tomorrow’s a new adventure waiting to happen.”

Chapter Text

Ashley stretched her arms high above her head, letting the warm sun soak into her skin as the salty breeze played with her hair. The sound of crashing waves filled the air, mixing with the cries of Wingull and Pelipper circling overhead. She stood at the edge of Fuchsia City’s beach, her bare toes digging into the soft sand as she gazed out at the sparkling water. This was a far cry from the scorching heat of Cinnabar’s volcano and the bone-chilling cold of the Seafoam Islands. It was... nice. Relaxing, even.

“Alright, Neptune, ready to hit the waves again?” Ashley called, grinning as she glanced back at the water.

Her Lapras bobbed in the surf, letting out a cheerful, melodic cry as he tilted his head toward her, clearly eager for another ride. His shell gleamed in the sunlight, the patterns on it catching the light just right, and his gentle eyes practically sparkled with excitement.

Ashley waded into the water, the coolness lapping against her legs as she approached him. Mars and Vulcan sat on the shore watching, their tails flicking idly as they soaked in the sun. Mars looked particularly grumpy about being left out of the water fun, but Ashley had already promised him a battle session later to make up for it.

“Alright, Neptune, let’s show these guys what you’ve got,” Ashley said as she climbed onto his back. She adjusted her grip on the shell, leaning forward slightly. “Let’s try picking up the pace today—get those muscles working!”

Neptune let out a determined trill before diving forward, slicing through the water like a knife. Ashley leaned into the motion, her heart racing as the wind whipped past her face. Riding Neptune was different from the Lapras they’d taken to Seafoam. This felt more... natural.

“You’re getting stronger already!” Ashley shouted, laughing as Neptune sped up, weaving around the buoys set up along the water. She glanced back at the shore to see Mars standing now, pacing anxiously as Vulcan barked encouragement.

“Don’t worry, Mars!” Ashley called, cupping her hands around her mouth. “Your turn’s coming! I know you’re dying to show off.”

Mars crossed his arms and let out a loud “Char!” before sitting back down, pretending not to care. Vulcan snickered at him, earning a playful shove.

Ashley turned back just as Neptune slowed, gliding over the small waves and coming to a smooth stop. She patted his neck, beaming. “You’re a natural, buddy. We’re totally gonna blow through Water-type battles when we need to.”

Neptune trilled proudly, puffing out his chest before tilting his head toward the shore. Ashley followed his gaze and spotted a group of Horsea and Seadra playing near the rocks, spraying water at each other. Neptune let out a curious cry, and the smaller Pokémon responded with their own playful whistles.

Ashley grinned. “Making friends already, huh? That’s my boy.”

She slid off Neptune’s back, wading back toward the shore with him close behind. Mars and Vulcan were on their feet the second she hit the sand, both Pokémon rushing up to her like overprotective siblings.

“Okay, okay, I’m fine!” Ashley laughed, holding her hands up as Mars inspected her, sniffing at her legs like she’d somehow drowned and come back. “I swear, you’re worse than Dad sometimes.”

Mars huffed and stepped back, clearly not convinced, while Vulcan circled Neptune, sniffing him like he was making sure the Lapras was still part of their team. Neptune blinked and let out a low, questioning note, and Vulcan barked in reply, seeming satisfied.

Ashley crouched down, ruffling both their heads. “Relax, you two. Neptune’s part of the family now. You don’t have to keep checking.”

Mars finally stopped pouting, though he still glared at the water like it had personally offended him. Ashley rolled her eyes and pulled out some treats from her bag, handing one to each Pokémon.

“Alright, snack time,” she said, plopping down onto the sand with them.

Mars perked up immediately, his tail flame flaring slightly. Vulcan barked in approval, wagging his tail. Neptune tilted his head before letting out a happy trill, clearly eager to be included. Ashley leaned back, letting the sun warm her skin as her Pokémon settled beside her, enjoying their snack.

As the morning slowly faded into noon, Ashley found herself standing once more ankle-deep in the gentle surf, the morning sun casting golden streaks across the water. Neptune bobbed just a few feet away, his bright eyes fixed on her as if waiting for instructions. Mars and Vulcan sat further up the shore, perched on a large rock, watching the lesson unfold with varying levels of interest. Mars leaned forward slightly, tail flickering like he was ready to jump in and take over if Neptune slipped up, while Vulcan sprawled out lazily, occasionally barking encouragement.

“Alright, Neptune,” Ashley said, brushing her damp hair out of her face. “We’re starting with Swift. Let’s see if we can get those stars flying straight instead of, you know, raining chaos everywhere.”

Neptune let out a soft trill, his tail flicking water in excitement. Ashley laughed. “I’ll take that as a ‘let’s do this.’ Now focus! Remember, precision is key!” Ashley motioned for Neptune to take aim at the cluster of driftwood logs she’d arranged as targets along the shoreline. “Swift!”

Neptune’s eyes glowed as shimmering stars formed around him, bright and sharp like tiny daggers of light. With a low cry, he sent them flying. Most of them hit their marks, splintering the logs and sending smaller pieces skidding across the sand. A few, however, veered off wildly, one shooting straight into the air and another plopping harmlessly into the water.

Mars snorted from his perch, clearly unimpressed. Ashley spun to face him, jabbing a finger in his direction. “Oh, like you nailed Swift on your first try, Mr. Perfect?”

Mars crossed his arms with an exaggerated huff, looking pointedly away. Vulcan barked out a laugh, earning a shove from Mars that almost knocked him off the rock.

Ashley shook her head, turning back to Neptune. “Don’t listen to them, bud. That was awesome for your first shot! Let’s tighten it up and try again. Focus on keeping the spread controlled this time.”

Neptune gave a determined trill, his eyes narrowing. He inhaled deeply, then released another barrage of stars. This time, they flew straighter, every single one hitting a log dead-center. Ashley whooped, throwing her arms up. “Yes! That’s what I’m talking about!”

Neptune practically glowed at the praise, bobbing in the water and slapping his fins against the surface, spraying Ashley in the process. She sputtered, laughing, and waved him off. “Alright, alright! Celebrate later—we’ve still got work to do!”

Next came Double Team. Ashley knew this one would be trickier—speed and timing were everything, especially for a Pokémon as large as Neptune. She walked him through the motions first, demonstrating quick pivots and movements on the sand while Neptune mimicked her from the water, his fins churning waves as he tried to keep up.

“Double Team!” Ashley finally called out, and Neptune’s body shimmered. For a moment, three Lapras hovered in the water, but as Neptune shifted nervously, two of them flickered and vanished. Ashley winced, but Vulcan barked encouragement, and Neptune squared his shoulders—or, well, his shell—and tried again.

By the fifth attempt, Neptune held his copies steady, moving in near-perfect sync as the illusions danced around him. Mars finally stood up, letting out a grudging “Char,” which Ashley interpreted as approval. “See?” she called over her shoulder. “Told you he’s a natural!”

They wrapped up with Substitute, Neptune forming shimmering replicas of himself that absorbed imaginary attacks as Ashley shouted mock battle commands. Vulcan jumped in to act as a sparring partner, sending out bursts of Ember and quick dashes to test Neptune’s timing. By the end of the drill, both Pokémon were panting, but Neptune held his final substitute like a pro.

Ashley wiped the sweat from her forehead with the back of her hand, leaning heavily against one of the driftwood logs scattered along the beach. “You’re absolutely killing it, Neptune. Seriously.” Her voice was warm, but the hint of pride made the Lapras perk up, his shell shimmering under the sun as he let out a pleased trill.

Ashley knelt by the water’s edge, brushing her fingers lightly along his smooth, cool scales. The gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore felt like a calm backdrop to their hard-earned progress. She tilted her head, giving Neptune a playful grin. “One more move, and we’re calling it a day. How do you feel about giving Rain Dance a shot?”

Neptune tilted his head, his large eyes blinking curiously as he let out a soft, questioning hum. Ashley laughed, brushing the damp strands of hair out of her face. “Yeah, I figured you’d be into it. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves—this one’s tricky. It’s not just about splashing water around or shooting ice shards. This is a move that affects the whole field.”

She turned back toward the shore where Mars and Vulcan had plopped down in the sand, both looking more than ready to call it a day. Mars stretched lazily, claws digging into the warm grains, but Vulcan’s ears twitched, already curious about what was coming next.

“You two might want to take cover,” Ashley called, trying to sound serious, but her grin ruined the attempt.

Mars grumbled, flicking his tail and sending a small spray of sand toward Vulcan before trotting off toward the rocks. Vulcan hesitated, glancing back at Neptune like he didn’t want to miss whatever was about to happen, but a sharp look from Ashley sent him padding off after Mars, though his wagging tail betrayed his excitement.

Once they were out of the way, Ashley crouched beside Neptune again, her voice quieter now, more focused. “Alright, Neptune, this one’s all about visualization. You need to picture it first—what we’re aiming for. Close your eyes if it helps.”

Neptune blinked at her, but then he closed his eyes, his long neck lowering slightly as he let out a slow breath.

Ashley leaned closer, speaking steadily as if she could build the image in his mind. “Think about the air getting heavier, like it does right before a storm. Picture the clouds rolling in, dark and thick, and the wind starting to shift, carrying the smell of rain. Feel the water around you pulling upward, rising toward the sky until the pressure can’t hold it anymore. And then… it bursts. Rain falling in sheets, steady and strong.”

Neptune hummed softly, his tail swishing gently through the water, sending ripples outward as if testing the idea.

Ashley gave his side a firm pat. “You’re not forcing it—you’re inviting it. Rain doesn’t come from nowhere. It builds up naturally, and all you’re doing is helping it along. Now let’s try it.”

Neptune straightened, his expression more determined now. Ashley stepped back, giving him room as he lifted his head and let out a long, haunting cry. The sound carried across the water, echoing off the rocks, and Ashley swore she felt the air shift.

The breeze picked up slightly, tugging at her hair. She squinted up at the sky, watching as faint wisps of clouds began to swirl and thicken, but they remained stubbornly pale. No darkening. No rain. Neptune looked down at her, his eyes wide and uncertain.

Ashley immediately stepped forward, resting a hand on his smooth neck. “Hey, it’s okay,” she said, her voice calm and steady. “This is one of those moves that takes practice. Weather doesn’t change on command—it’s more like… persuasion.” She smiled and gave him a reassuring rub. “You’re already halfway there. Let’s give it another shot.”

Neptune let out a more determined cry this time, the water around him churning as his tail swayed. The clouds overhead rippled, shifting and growing thicker, heavier. Ashley felt the temperature drop slightly, the breeze picking up just enough to stir the hair around her face.

Then—plop. A single raindrop hit her arm. Another splashed against the sand.

Neptune let out a surprised trill, and Ashley laughed, raising her arms as a few more drops spattered down before the clouds thinned out again.

“Close enough!” Ashley cheered, grinning as Neptune let out a happy bark-like cry. “That’s a win, buddy. We’ll work on building it up later, but you absolutely nailed the start!”

Mars and Vulcan trotted back over, Vulcan barking encouragement while Mars gave a more grudging nod of approval. Ashley ruffled both their heads, then leaned over to hug Neptune’s neck.

“You guys are unstoppable,” she said, her grin practically glowing. “And once we master this? We’re going to be ready for anything.”

Neptune nudged her shoulder, almost knocking her off balance in the process, but Ashley just laughed, hugging him tighter before pulling back.

“Alright,” she said, brushing her hair out of her face. “Let’s call it. We’ve earned some serious dinner after all that.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, already trotting toward the path back to the Pokémon Center, and Mars followed with a flick of his tail. Ashley climbed onto Neptune’s back, letting him guide them through the shallows as they headed toward shore.

Her thoughts buzzed with excitement. Rain Dance wasn’t perfect yet, but it was coming together. And with a team like this? There wasn’t a challenge in Kanto she didn’t feel ready to face.

The following day, bright and early, Ashley practically vibrated with excitement, her red sneakers tapping against the cobblestone path leading up to the massive gates of the Fuchsia City Safari Zone. The towering entrance loomed before her, vines and tropical plants creeping up the stone walls like nature itself was trying to reclaim the place. A pair of statues shaped like Kangaskhan flanked the archway, their carved eyes staring down as if sizing up each new visitor.

Mars and Vulcan stood at her sides, both watching her bounce on her heels with mild amusement. Mars crossed his arms, giving her a look that said Calm down already, while Vulcan wagged his tail, clearly feeding off her energy. Neptune, safely resting in his Poké Ball, wouldn’t be making this trip—the Safari Zone was landlocked, and the big guy deserved a break after all the training.

Ashley adjusted her hat, tugging it down a little tighter as she stared up at the sign above the entrance:

Welcome to the Safari Zone—Where Pokémon Roam Free!

“This is it, guys!” Ashley grinned, turning to her team with bright eyes. “Rare Pokémon paradise! Think about it—Kangaskhan, Scyther, Chansey, maybe even a Tauros if we’re lucky! The dream team could get even stronger.”

Mars snorted, clearly unimpressed, and leaned back against one of the statues like he had all the time in the world. Vulcan barked, bouncing in place and looking like he was ready to sprint through the gate before it even opened. Ashley knelt, resting a hand on Vulcan’s head and scratching behind his ears.

“I know you’re pumped, buddy,” she said, grinning. “But no fire moves, alright? We’re not burning down the grassland habitats today.” Vulcan huffed but wagged his tail, clearly promising nothing.

Mars rolled his eyes, but Ashley jabbed a finger at him. “And you—no attitude!”

Mars barked indignantly, crossing his arms tighter and puffing out a little ember from his nose. Ashley laughed, standing up and brushing off her skirt. They stepped up to the ticket counter, where an attendant handed Ashley a map of the massive reserve. Ashley handed over her Pokédex and the 500 Pokédollars with a bright grin that didn’t quite match the sharp gleam in her eyes. She was practically bouncing in place, fingers drumming impatiently on the counter as the attendant counted out her thirty Safari Balls and pushed them across to her in a neat little pouch. The small green-and-white capsules glinted under the fluorescent lights of the entrance hall, promising endless possibilities.

“Alright, rules time,” the man behind the counter said, clearly used to overexcited trainers vibrating with anticipation. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the counter as he fixed her with a no-nonsense look. “No battling. No coercion. No tricks.”

Ashley opened her mouth, but he raised a finger to stop whatever protest was coming.

“That means no chasing, no cornering, and no sneaking up while they’re asleep.” He jabbed his thumb toward a bright red sign behind him that read: ‘Wild Pokémon Are Not Prizes—They Are Partners!’

“Only one Pokémon out at a time,” he continued, already pulling a clipboard toward him. “And it’s for defense only. If something charges at you, you’re allowed to command your Pokémon to protect you, but no attacking unless absolutely necessary. And don’t even think about weakening them for easier captures.”

Ashley let out a dramatic groan, leaning heavily on the counter. “What’s the point of a Safari if I can’t do anything cool?”

The man raised an eyebrow and smirked. “If you wanted a fight, you should’ve gone to the Battle Dome. This place is for catching, not chaos.” He pushed the clipboard toward her and handed her a pen. “Sign here to agree to the rules.”

Ashley grabbed the pen and scribbled her name, her excitement bubbling back up despite the restrictions. She slid the clipboard back and picked up the Safari Balls, tucking them carefully into her bag.

“Now,” the attendant said, straightening up. “Any Pokémon you catch will be transferred to us at the desk for processing. Once your time’s up, we’ll swap them into standard Poké Balls, and you’ll pick them up on the way out. No exceptions.”

Ashley nodded, she turned to her Pokémon and pondered who to choose. Vulcan was shaking out his fur as he stretched, while Mars was yawning. Ashley sweat dropped, and took out her starter’s Poke Ball, before returning him. Vulcan it is. The attendant gave a low whistle.

“Nice Growlithe,” he said, nodding in approval. “You don’t see too many of those around here. He looks well-trained.”

Ashley grinned, ruffling the fur on Vulcan’s neck. “Thanks. He’s the calmest of my team—usually—so he gets bodyguard duty today.” She shot Vulcan a look. “You hear that, buddy? No setting the grass on fire just because it looks at you funny.”

Vulcan huffed, but his tail wagged slightly. He sat down obediently, though his nose was already twitching, picking up the scents of unfamiliar Pokémon wafting in from deeper in the park.

The attendant chuckled, waving her toward the entrance gate. “Good luck in there, kid. Remember—patience pays off.”

Ashley saluted. “Got it! Thanks!”

The moment she stepped through the gate, the world seemed to shift. The air grew warmer, thicker, and the hum of distant Pokémon calls echoed around her. Tall grass rustled in the breeze, and the trees swayed overhead, their leaves dappling the ground in shifting patterns of sunlight and shadow.

Vulcan padded ahead cautiously, sniffing at the ground as they made their way down the dirt path. Ashley held one of the Safari Balls in her hand, rolling it between her fingers as her eyes darted from shadow to shadow.

“This place is huge,” she muttered under her breath, pulling out the map the attendant had given her. “Okay, we’re in Zone 1. Mostly Grass-types and Normal-types here... but if we head toward the water, we might get lucky with something rare.”

Ashley wandered deeper into the Safari Zone, the soft crunch of dirt under her shoes and the occasional rustle of grass making her feel like she’d stepped into another world entirely. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, dappling her path in patches of gold and green. It smelled like earth and blooming flowers, and the air practically buzzed with life—calls of Pokémon echoing from every direction. She couldn’t help but grin, snapping quick pictures with her PokéNav whenever a Pokémon poked its head out of the tall grass.

“Okay, that one’s a definite keeper,” she muttered to herself, zooming in on a pair of Doduo darting across a clearing, their legs kicking up little clouds of dust. Vulcan padded beside her, his nose twitching as he sniffed the air, occasionally breaking into playful sprints after stray leaves or fluttering Butterfree.

“Vulcan, don’t scare them!” Ashley called out with a laugh, quickly pocketing her PokéNav to chase after him. “They’re supposed to be watching us, not running for their lives!”

Vulcan skidded to a stop, turning back with his tongue lolling out in what could only be described as a mischievous grin. Ashley rolled her eyes, jogging to catch up and ruffling the fur on his head when she reached him.

“You’re lucky you’re cute,” she said, crouching down to his level. Vulcan barked, wagging his tail and bumping his head against her knee.

Ashley looked out at the clearing they’d just entered. The tall grass here was thicker, almost waist-high, and dotted with wildflowers. A small Nidoran peeked out from between the stalks, twitching nervously before they ducked out of sight. A flock of Pidgey soared overhead, their wings catching the sunlight in flashes of soft brown and white.

“Man,” Ashley breathed, resting her hands on her hips. “I can see why so many people come here. It’s like stepping into one of those nature documentaries.”

Vulcan barked again, but this time it was more of a warning. Ashley turned to find him standing stiffly, his fur bristling as his ears twitched. She followed his gaze and spotted a Rhyhorn lumbering toward them from the edge of the clearing.

“Whoa,” Ashley muttered, reaching slowly for one of her Safari Balls. The Rhyhorn snorted, its horn gleaming in the sunlight as it pawed at the dirt. Vulcan growled low in his throat, stepping in front of Ashley protectively.

“Easy, Vulcan,” she whispered, keeping her voice calm. She tossed a small piece of bait toward the Rhyhorn, hoping to distract it, but the massive Pokémon ignored the food completely. Instead, it kept its eyes locked on Vulcan.

Ashley’s heart skipped. Great. Territorial Rhyhorn.

“Alright, buddy, no sudden moves,” she murmured, slowly backing away. Vulcan matched her steps, his muscles tensed like a coiled spring. The Rhyhorn snorted again, but before it could charge, something else caught its attention—a Chansey waddling out of the tall grass with a cheerful cry.

The Rhyhorn immediately turned, distracted by the new arrival. Ashley let out a breath she didn’t know she’d been holding and grabbed Vulcan’s collar before he could bark again.

“Come on,” she hissed, tugging him toward another path. “Let’s not test our luck.”

Once they were far enough away, Ashley let Vulcan go, and he immediately flopped down onto the grass, panting.

“Yeah, I’m exhausted too,” she said, crouching beside him and pulling out a water bottle. She poured a little into her hand, letting him lap it up before taking a swig herself.

“Note to self,” she muttered. “Maybe don’t hang out in the Rhyhorn Zone.”

Vulcan let out a huff, rolling onto his back and wiggling around in the grass like he had no worries in the world. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh, pulling out her PokéNav again to snap a picture of him mid-roll.

“Alright, drama king,” she said, standing up and brushing dirt off her shorts. “Break’s over. Let’s keep moving.”

The next area opened into a small grove of trees with a gentle stream trickling through the middle. A pair of Exeggcute sat nestled near the water’s edge, their round bodies bobbing slightly as they dozed in the sun. Ashley slowed her steps, nudging Vulcan to stay quiet.

“Think we should try for one of those guys?” she whispered. Vulcan tilted his head, then sniffed the air and gave a soft bark.

Ashley reached into her bag for more bait, tossing it toward the Exeggcute. One of them cracked an eye open, inspecting the food for a moment before scooting closer.

“Alright... easy does it...” Ashley crouched low, pulling out another Safari Ball and getting ready to throw.

But just as she was about to make her move, something rustled in the bushes nearby. Both Exeggcute shot upright, their sleepy expressions vanishing as they bolted toward the undergrowth.

Ashley groaned, dropping back onto her heels. “Seriously? Again?”

A Paras scuttled out of the bushes, oblivious to the frustration it had caused. Vulcan barked at it, and the bug Pokémon let out a startled squeak before disappearing back into the grass.

Ashley shook her head, stowing the Safari Ball back in her bag. “We are not leaving here empty-handed,” she declared, standing up and brushing off her knees. “Come on, Vulcan. Let’s find something rare before time’s up.”

The Growlithe barked in agreement, and together they pressed on, the sounds of the Safari Zone surrounding them like the hum of a living, breathing world. Ashley and Vulcan made it to a clearing filled with flowers. It was beautiful. The vibrant colors and sweet aromas surrounded them, drawing their attention completely. They were so distracted by the scene that they didn’t notice the group of Oddish and Gloom until the sole Vileplume released her Poison Powder.

Luckily, Vulcan reacted quickly, unleashing a defensive Fire Spin to burn away the spores before they could spread. The swirling flames danced through the air, neutralizing the threat, as it exploded into mini fireworks of purple and red, leaving only harmless embers floating down by the end. Ashley let out a breath of relief and patted Vulcan’s head.

“Nice work, Vulcan! That was incredible. We’ll have to use that against Koga,” she said, already mentally filing the move away for their upcoming battle.

Ashley blinked, glancing down at the little Gloom tugging shyly at the hem of her skirt. The Grass-and-Poison-type’s petals trembled slightly but not from fear—more like excitement. Her gaze flickered toward Vulcan, who stood at Ashley’s side, still glowing faintly from the Fire Spin he’d just used to neutralize the Poison Powder cloud.

“Well, hello there,” Ashley said, crouching down carefully so she wouldn’t spook it. “What’s up, little buddy? Did you like the show?”

The Gloom let out a soft chirping sound, shuffling closer and sniffing at the lingering embers still glowing faintly in the grass. Her eyes practically sparkled, and she wobbled her petals in what Ashley could only describe as awe.

“Oh my gosh, are you a fireworks fan?” Ashley laughed, reaching out her hand slowly to let the Gloom sniff her fingers. She didn’t hesitate, leaning in and giving a curious sniff before pressing her head against her palm with a happy hum.

Vulcan let out a low bark, stepping forward protectively and giving the Gloom a once-over. Ashley shot him a look.

“Hey, come on. Don’t scare her off!” She ruffled his fur before turning back to the Gloom, who had stepped back slightly but was still staring at Vulcan’s flames.

“Sorry about him,” Ashley said with a grin. “He’s a bit overprotective. It’s kind of his thing.” She looked at the Gloom again, noticing how she kept glancing between her and Vulcan’s flames. “You’re really into fire, huh? Not exactly what I’d expect from a Grass-type.”

The Gloom let out another hum, bouncing slightly where she stood.

Ashley straightened, hands on her hips, and studied it for a moment. “You know, I don’t have a Grass-type yet,” she mused out loud, causing Vulcan to tilt his head and let out a questioning whine. She knelt back down, pulling a Safari Ball from her pouch and holding it up. “What do you think, girl? Want to join us? You’ll have to put up with a lot of flames, though.”

The Gloom perked up immediately, hopping closer and tapping the Safari Ball with her stubby little arm without hesitation.

“Well, that was easy,” Ashley muttered as the ball sucked Gloom inside with a flash of light. It barely wobbled before clicking shut.

Vulcan barked in surprise, but Ashley grinned and held the ball up triumphantly. “Guess we’re building a fireworks team, huh?” she said, giving Vulcan a wink.

He barked again, this time more approvingly, before stepping closer to sniff the Safari Ball, taking a startled jump backwards when the ball disappeared. Ashley patted his head, laughing, before turning her attention back to the field of flowers—and the rest of the Oddish and Gloom, and even the Vileplume, who were now nervously edging away after the earlier flames.

“Don’t worry,” Ashley called out to the retreating Pokémon. “We’re not going to set anything else on fire. Probably.” She paused, glancing down at Vulcan. “Actually, no promises.”

The Growlithe gave her an innocent look that didn’t fool her for a second.

“Come on,” Ashley said, tugging lightly at his collar as she started toward the next path. “Let’s keep moving. We’ve still got time, and I’m not leaving this place without one more rare catch.”

Vulcan trotted after her, his tail swishing as they pushed deeper into the Safari Zone. The sound of buzzing wings made Ashley glance up, just in time to see a Venomoth fluttering above the treetops.

“Okay, maybe not that one,” Ashley muttered, speeding up. Vulcan huffed a bark of agreement, clearly not thrilled about chasing down something that could paralyze him.

They wandered through the next clearing, which opened up into a small pond surrounded by reeds. Ashley slowed down, her eyes scanning the water’s edge. “Hmm... Water-types?”

Vulcan sniffed at the air again, then suddenly tensed and let out a growl.

“What?” Ashley whispered, immediately reaching for another Safari Ball as she scanned the area. Her eyes locked on the rippling water just ahead of them, and before she could react, something burst out of the pond in a spray of droplets—a Psyduck, holding its head and letting out a shrill quack.

Ashley stumbled back, startled by the sudden appearance, while Vulcan barked and immediately braced himself in a defensive stance.

“Whoa, okay! Chill, it’s just a Psyduck!” Ashley said, holding out her hand to calm Vulcan down. The Psyduck, however, didn’t look particularly threatening—it just stood there, staring blankly at them with its head tilted to one side.

Ashley blinked. “Huh. You’re, uh... not exactly intimidating, are you?”

Vulcan barked softly, but his fur relaxed, and Ashley couldn’t help but laugh. “You know what? I think we’ll pass on this one.” She turned to walk away, but the Psyduck let out another quack and waddled after them, still clutching its head.

Ashley sighed. “Nope. Don’t follow us. I don’t need a headache.”

Vulcan let out another bark, this one sounding suspiciously like a laugh.

As they continued deeper into the Safari Zone, Ashley couldn’t believe how easily the Gloom had decided to join them. A Grass-type was exactly what her team needed to balance out all the Fire and Water coverage—and one that was already fascinated by flames? That had to be a good sign.

She smiled, adjusting her bag as they walked. “Vulcan, I think we’re gonna need to come up with a good name for her,” she said. The Growlithe barked in agreement, and together they disappeared down the winding path.

Ashley and Vulcan then made it to a small hill, where a pack of Eevees were chasing each other. Vulcan faithfully remained beside his trainer, but Ashley could see he wanted to join. So, she nudged him towards them. Growlithe did not need to be told twice.

Ashley moved to sit against the sturdy trunk of a tree, the cool shade a welcome relief from the midday sun. Her camera was balanced carefully in her hands, her finger hovering over the capture button as she zoomed in on Vulcan. Her Growlithe was practically vibrating with excitement as he darted around the grassy clearing, weaving between the playful pack of Eevee like he’d always been part of their group. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh softly as Vulcan flopped onto his back, letting a pair of Eevee pounce on him like he was a fluffy jungle gym.

“You’re supposed to be my dignified protector,” Ashley teased under her breath, snapping another picture as Vulcan barked happily, rolling over to gently pin one of the Eevee beneath his paws before letting it go again. “Yeah, super intimidating. They’re terrified of you.”

She lowered the camera for a moment, just long enough to lean her head back against the tree and close her eyes. The sounds of the Safari Zone buzzed faintly in the background—rustling leaves, chirping Spearow overhead, and the occasional splash of water from a nearby pond. But mostly, it was the laughter-like cries of the Eevee and Vulcan’s excited yips that filled the clearing.

Ashley peeked one eye open, unable to resist watching the chaos unfold. Vulcan was now leading the pack in a game of chase, zigzagging through the field as the Eevee scrambled to keep up. One particularly small Eevee stood out, lagging slightly behind the others but trying her best to catch Vulcan’s tail.

“Aww, come on, little guy,” Ashley murmured, leaning forward with a grin. “You’ve almost got him—don’t give up!”

As if it had heard her, the tiny Eevee let out a determined squeak and launched herself forward. Vulcan slowed just enough to let her tackle him, flopping dramatically onto his side as though he’d been defeated. The Eevee squeaked again, clearly triumphant, and pounced onto Vulcan’s chest like she had just won a championship match.

Ashley couldn’t stop laughing, snapping a few more pictures before putting her camera aside. But then Vulcan stood up, trotting toward her with the little Eevee bouncing along right beside him.

“Uh, Vulcan?” Ashley said, raising an eyebrow as the Growlithe stopped in front of her and barked once, wagging his tail. The Eevee mimicked him, sitting down primly and looking up at Ashley with wide, shining eyes.

“Oh no,” Ashley muttered, already feeling her resolve crumbling. “Don’t do this to me.”

Vulcan barked again and nudged the Eevee closer with his nose. The little Pokémon tilted her head, blinking up at Ashley expectantly.

“Guys, I can’t—look, my parents are literally giving me an Eevee in a couple of months! I can’t just—ugh!” She groaned, flopping back against the tree and covering her face with her hands.

Vulcan whined, pawing at her leg, and the Eevee let out the tiniest, most pitiful squeak Ashley had ever heard.

“Nope,” she said, sitting up again and pointing at them both. “Don’t give me those eyes. It’s not happening.”

They kept staring.

“Not fair!” Ashley groaned, grabbing one of her Safari Balls and holding it up. “You two are a nightmare, you know that?”

Vulcan barked happily, stepping aside as Ashley knelt down and gently offered the Safari Ball to the Eevee. “Okay, little guy—only if you’re sure. You’ll have to put up with Vulcan’s energy and Mars’s temper, though.”

The Eevee practically tackled the Safari Ball, booping her with her nose and letting herself get sucked inside with a flash of light. The ball didn’t even wiggle before clicking shut, before disappearing.

Ashley sat back on her heels, staring at it for a moment before looking at Vulcan. “I’m officially the biggest pushover ever.”

Vulcan barked proudly, his tail wagging so hard it was a blur.

“Alright, alright, don’t rub it in.” Ashley stood up with a pout. “At least, Eevee’s can evolve into many forms, so I might get two different Pokémon. Here’s to hoping, but with my luck, who knows?” Vulcan was already back to playing with the rest of the Eevee pack, but Ashley called him back with a sharp whistle. “Sorry, buddy, but we’re on a schedule now,” she said as he trotted back to her side. “You got your fun, and I got a new teammate. Win-win, right?”

Vulcan barked again, clearly satisfied with the arrangement.

Ashley couldn’t help but grin as she turned toward the winding path leading deeper into the Safari Zone, her steps light as the sounds of chirping Pidgey and rustling leaves filled the air. Her team was growing faster than she’d ever expected, and after a day full of surprises—new Pokémon, unexpected bonds, and way too much adrenaline—she decided it was time to unwind. The moment her eyes caught the glimmer of the lake through the trees, she knew exactly where she wanted to end the day.

The clearing by the water was perfect—calm, quiet, and bathed in the golden glow of the late afternoon sun. Ashley let out a contented sigh as she dropped her bag and sank onto a smooth, sun-warmed rock by the water’s edge. She leaned back, letting the heat from the stone seep into her muscles, and closed her eyes for just a moment to take it all in—the rhythmic lapping of the water, the gentle rustling of the reeds, and the soft hum of Bug-types somewhere in the trees.

Vulcan flopped down beside her with a dramatic thud, his warm fur pressing against her leg as he sprawled out like he’d just run a marathon. His tail flicked lazily, the tiny ember at the tip glowing faintly as he chewed on the last bite of his Poké Puff. Ashley laughed softly, reaching out to ruffle his thick mane. “You’re living the dream, huh, Vulcan?”

He let out a low, contented huff, his tail giving a slow, rhythmic wag as she scratched behind his ears. His eyes drooped, half-lidded and sleepy, but he still leaned into her touch.

Ashley leaned back against the smooth curve of a large, sun-warmed rock, letting the sound of rippling water and rustling leaves settle into her bones. Vulcan moved to sprawl beside her, his warm fur pressed against her leg as he lazily chewed on the last bite of his Poké Puff. Ashley grinned, running her fingers through his thick coat and scratching behind his ears, earning a contented huff as his tail gave a slow, rhythmic wag.

“This,” she said, stretching her legs out and letting her boots rest near the water’s edge, “is what we needed. No training, no battles, no puzzles to solve—just us, snacks, and the great outdoors.”

Vulcan barked softly in agreement, licking a stray crumb from his paw before resting his head against Ashley’s knee.

Ashley reached into her bag, pulling out another Poké Puff—this one decorated with pink frosting and a swirl of sprinkles—and set it on the small plate beside her. “Seriously, we should do this more often,” she added, popping a smaller bite-sized treat into her mouth. “Not every day has to be explosions and fire drills, right?”

But before Vulcan could respond—or growl in protest—Ashley noticed something.

The plate was missing a puff.

She froze, her chewing slowing as her eyes darted toward the plate and then down at Vulcan, who gave her an innocent look, his tail still wagging.

“Wait,” she said slowly, setting her snack down. “I just put three here. You saw me, right? Vulcan?”

The Growlithe let out a low whine, clearly trying to assure her he was innocent this time. But Ashley’s eyes narrowed as her gaze swept the area. The lake was still calm, the trees swayed lazily in the breeze, and nothing seemed out of place—until she noticed a faint ripple in the water nearby.

“What the—”

Before she could finish, something small and sleek shot out of the water in a smooth arc, landing on the rock beside her with a soft thud. Ashley yelped, scooting back as Vulcan jumped to his feet, his fur bristling until Ashley quickly raised her hand to calm him.

It took her a second to process what she was looking at—a Dratini.

His serpentine body gleamed faintly in the sunlight, the pale blue scales shimmering like the lake itself. His round, pearl-like head tilted curiously as he met Ashley’s wide-eyed stare, a tiny flick of his tail making the water behind it ripple again.

Ashley blinked. “You’ve gotta be kidding me.”

The Dratini blinked back. Then, as if completely unfazed, he slithered closer—ignoring Vulcan’s wary stare—and coiled his long, slender body around Ashley’s shoulders.

“Wait—what?!” Ashley squawked, stiffening as the Dragon-type settled himself comfortably, his smooth scales cool against her skin. He rested his head right over her chest, nuzzling down as though he had just claimed her as his new pillow.

Vulcan let out a sharp bark, stepping closer, but Ashley raised her hand again. “No, no, it’s okay! He’s—uh, friendly? I think?”

She glanced down at the Dratini, who let out a soft, musical hum that vibrated lightly against her chest. His eyes were half-closed, looking completely relaxed—and maybe even a little smug.

Ashley snorted, finally easing back against the rock again, though her shoulders stayed tense. “Oh, you’re bold,” she said, craning her neck to look at him. “You show up out of nowhere, steal my snacks, and now you’re using me as a nap spot? Real classy.”

The Dratini didn’t even flinch, just made a contented noise and curled a little tighter around her shoulders.

Vulcan, however, looked like he wasn’t sure whether to bark again or just accept defeat. He finally sat back down, still eyeing Dratini like he might pull something sneaky at any second.

Ashley grinned, reaching up carefully to stroke the smooth scales along his back. “Okay, okay, I get it. You’re cute. But I’m still docking points for the snack theft.”

The Dratini hummed again, clearly unbothered, and Ashley sighed. “Guess we’ve got another guest, huh, Vulcan?”

Her Growlithe huffed but eventually settled down beside her again, though he kept one eye open and fixed on the Dragon-type. Ashley let herself relax too, closing her eyes as the gentle warmth of Vulcan on one side and the coolness of Dratini on the other balanced out perfectly.

And just like that, their peaceful afternoon stretched on, filled with quiet laughter, gentle ripples on the lake. When Ashley finally stood up, brushing bits of grass off her skirt, and stretched her arms above her head with a satisfied groan. Vulcan hopped to his feet beside her, giving his fur a good shake to rid himself of any stray leaves that had gotten tangled during his wrestling match with the pack of Eevee earlier. Dratini, however, didn’t budge from where he was still curled loosely around her shoulders, his tail draping lazily across her arm like he had no intention of letting go anytime soon.

“Alright, nap time’s over,” Ashley said, reaching up to nudge Dratini gently. “I’ve gotta start heading back before the Safari Zone closes. And no offense, but you can’t just hitch a ride forever.”

Dratini raised his head with a soft, inquisitive trill, tilting he just enough to make Ashley falter.

“Don’t—” She pointed a finger at it. “Don’t do the cute thing.”

Dratini blinked.

Ashley groaned. “Ugh, you’re worse than Vulcan.”

Vulcan barked indignantly, clearly not appreciating the comparison, but before Ashley could say anything else, Dratini shifted. With surprising grace, he uncoiled himself and slithered down her arm, landing with a soft thump in the grass. Ashley watched curiously as the little Dragon-type straightened, his head held high as he turned to face her.

“What are you up to?” Ashley asked, crouching slightly.

Dratini didn’t answer—not in words, anyway. Instead, he leaned forward, bumping his smooth forehead firmly against the Safari Ball still clipped to her belt.

Ashley froze. The ball popped off, fell to the ground, and with a burst of light, Dratini disappeared inside.

“What—wait—hold on!” Ashley stammered, scrambling to pick up the ball as it wiggled once, then twice. With an audible click, it locked. Then it disappeared, sealing Dratini and Ashley’s fate.

For a moment, Ashley remained frozenn, her mouth hanging open as Vulcan padded closer, tilting his head as if to ask, Did that seriously just happen?

And then, laughter bubbled out of her, uncontrollable and bright as she flopped back onto the grass. “You’ve got to be kidding me! Did—did we get a Dratini to catch himself?!”

Vulcan barked, wagging his tail, and Ashley clutched her chest, still laughing. “You sneaky little—wow. That’s it. I give up. You’re on the team.”

Shaking her head, she stood back up and dusted herself off again, this time with a grin plastered across her face. With Vulcan at her side and her newest addition securely in her pocket, she made her way back toward the Safari Zone’s entrance.

By the time she reached the front desk, her cheeks were still sore from smiling so much. The older man at the counter looked up as she approached, giving her an easygoing smile.

“Back already?” he asked, leaning against the counter. “Didn’t think I’d see you for another hour at least.”

Ashley grinned and set three Safari Balls down in front of him. “Guess I work fast.”

The man picked up the first ball, rolling it thoughtfully in his palm before placing it into the machine behind him. With a faint hum, the transfer began, switching the Safari Ball into a standard Poké Ball.

“So, what’d you end up catching?” he asked, glancing at her with interest.

Ashley crossed her arms and smirked. “A Gloom, an Eevee, and a Dratini.”

There was a beat of silence before the man let out a sharp whistle. “No kidding? A Dratini? Here?”

Ashley nodded, unable to stop the proud grin from spreading. “Walked right up to me, stole my snacks, and then caught himself.”

The man barked out a laugh, shaking his head as he finished the transfers and handed her the new Poké Balls. “Sounds like he picked you, kid. That’s rare, especially for a Pokémon like Dratini. Hold on to that one tight.”

“Oh, don’t worry,” Ashley said, tucking the balls safely into her belt. “I’m never letting him go.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, puffing his chest out proudly like he’d somehow had a hand—or paw—in the whole situation. Ashley laughed and ruffled his fur before turning back to the man.

“Thanks for the help. And, uh, if you see anyone else looking for Dratini around here, maybe—don’t mention this?”

The man gave her a wink. “Don’t worry. Safari Zone catches are private business. Your secret’s safe with me.”

Relieved, Ashley gave him a wave, her heart still buzzing with excitement as she looked down at the three new Poké Balls on her belt. “Alright, Vulcan,” she said. “Looks like we’ve got a lot of new teammates to train. And I think this one’s gonna be extra tricky.” Vulcan barked in agreement, his tail wagging as they walked.

Ashley stepped out of the Safari Zone, her heart still buzzing with excitement as she looked down at the three new Poké Balls securely fastened to her belt. The night air in Fuchsia City was crisp and carried the faint scent of blooming flowers and damp earth, making her pause to take in the scene. The cobblestone streets were lit by old-fashioned lanterns that gave the town a cozy, almost magical glow. Vulcan padded beside her, his tail flame casting a flickering light that danced along the walls of nearby buildings as they walked.

“Alright, Vulcan,” Ashley said, her voice light but filled with determination, “looks like we’ve got a lot of new teammates to train.” She ran a hand over the Poké Balls, her fingers pausing briefly on each one as if she could feel the weight of the responsibility they carried. “And I think this one’s gonna be extra tricky.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, his tail wagging as he trotted along, clearly as excited as she was about their growing team. They passed by the colorful stalls still open near the main square, where merchants sold handmade charms, herbal remedies, and souvenirs shaped like Kanto’s iconic Pokémon. Ashley made a mental note to come back later and pick up a couple of trinkets for her mom and dad.

As they approached the Pokémon Center, Ashley slowed down, taking a moment to appreciate how peaceful the town felt at night. Despite its reputation as the home of poison specialists and ninja mysteries, Fuchsia had a charm that was hard to deny—especially under the soft glow of the stars overhead.

She pushed through the doors, and the warm, familiar atmosphere of the Pokémon Center greeted her. Nurse Joy was still at the counter, finishing up some paperwork. She looked up and smiled when she saw Ashley.

“Back already? How’d it go?”

Ashley grinned and patted the Poké Balls on her belt. “Better than I ever expected. Three new teammates, and one of them’s a Dratini!”

Nurse Joy’s eyes widened slightly. “A Dratini? That’s amazing! You must’ve had quite the adventure.”

“Oh, you have no idea,” Ashley replied with a laugh. “But first things first—I need a bath, and so does Vulcan.”

Nurse Joy chuckled and waved her off. “Go ahead. I’ll be here if you need anything.”

Ashley made her way up to her room, unlocking the door and immediately setting her bag down by the bed. Vulcan hopped up onto the mattress like he owned the place, only to be unceremoniously lifted off by Ashley. “Not yet, mister,” she teased, pointing toward the bathroom. “Bath time first.”

Vulcan gave her an unimpressed look but followed her into the bathroom anyway.

Half an hour later, Ashley emerged from the steamy bathroom with her hair damp and smelling faintly of lavender. Vulcan trotted out behind her, his fur fluffed up and slightly damp, looking both annoyed and refreshed. “Don’t give me that look,” Ashley said, draping a towel over his back and giving him a quick rubdown. “You’ll thank me when you’re not itchy.”

Once Vulcan was properly dried off and back to wagging his tail, Ashley grabbed Mars’s Poké Ball from her belt and released him into the room. Mars stretched the moment he materialized, his tail flame flaring slightly as he took in the surroundings. He spotted Vulcan immediately, giving Growlithe a casual nod before turning to Ashley, his eyes sharp and expectant.

Ashley flopped down onto the edge of her bed, her legs swinging idly as she stretched her arms high above her head with a satisfied groan. Mars sat beside her, his tail flame flickering gently and casting soft shadows across the walls. He tilted his head, clearly waiting for an explanation, his bright eyes locked on her expectantly.

“Alright, alright,” Ashley said, leaning down to ruffle his head before he could burst with curiosity. “You’re not gonna believe the day Vulcan and I had.”

Mars perked up immediately, his tail flame burning a little brighter as he scooted closer, claws tapping against the floor. Ashley laughed, pulling out the three new Poké Balls from her belt and holding them up for him to see.

“We didn’t just go for a stroll in the Safari Zone,” she said, shaking the balls slightly before setting them down in front of her. “We came back with these guys.”

Mars let out an excited chirp, practically bouncing on his feet as Ashley clicked the first ball open. A flash of light filled the room, and Gloom appeared, wobbling slightly before straightening up and letting out a cheerful “Gloo!”

Mars blinked, then leaned closer, sniffing at the Grass-type curiously. Gloom tilted her head at him before letting out another cheerful cry, her stubby arms waving in greeting. Mars seemed to approve, giving her a small, playful growl that made Gloom sway happily from side to side.

“Looks like you two are gonna get along just fine,” Ashley said, grinning before grabbing the second Poké Ball. With another burst of light, Eevee materialized, her fluffy fur practically glowing as she shook herself off and looked around.

The Normal-type’s big, round eyes darted between Mars and Gloom before landing on Ashley. Her ears twitched as she padded toward her, nose wiggling as she sniffed at her hands.

Ashley chuckled, reaching down to scratch behind her ear. “Well, hey there, little lady. You’ve already met Vulcan, but it looks like it’s Mars’s turn.”

Mars leaned in, clearly intrigued by Eevee’s soft coat, but before he could get too close, Eevee suddenly crouched low, wiggled her tail, and pounced.

Mars yelped and scrambled backward, his tail flame flaring up slightly as Eevee tackled him playfully. Ashley burst out laughing as the two rolled across the floor, knocking into one of the chairs in the corner of the room.

“Easy, guys!” she called, but her grin didn’t fade as they separated, Mars huffing while Eevee pranced back toward her looking very pleased with herself.

“And finally,” Ashley said, lifting the last Poké Ball and giving it a quick kiss for luck before pressing the button.

The light swirled in front of her, and Dratini appeared, his sleek, serpentine body coiling gently around himself. His big, sapphire-like eyes blinked slowly as he adjusted to the room, but the moment he spotted Ashley, he slithered straight toward her and wrapped himself around her arm, pressing his head against her shoulder with a soft, contented trill.

“Hey, you,” Ashley said softly, stroking the smooth scales along his back. “Looks like you’re still sticking close, huh?”

Mars approached cautiously, giving Dratini’s tail an experimental sniff. Dratini lifted his head slightly, regarding him with mild curiosity before giving a soft chirp that seemed to ease the tension. Mars stepped back and nodded, apparently satisfied, and sat down next to Gloom, who had been watching the interactions like she was judging a performance.

Ashley leaned back, taking in the sight of her growing team as they began interacting—Eevee and Mars immediately started roughhousing again, Gloom waddled over to investigate one of Ashley’s spare bags, and Dratini simply curled up comfortably in her lap like it was the most natural thing in the world.

She smiled, brushing her fingers lightly along Dratini’s back. “Well, looks like we’re officially a family now, huh?”

Vulcan barked in agreement from his spot by the window, where he’d been keeping watch over the group like a proud big brother. Ashley shot him a wink. “Don’t worry, buddy. You’re still top dog.”

Vulcan wagged his tail and let out a happy bark before trotting over to curl up by her side. Ashley reached down and scratched behind his ears, her gaze drifting across the room as the rest of her Pokémon settled in.

Gloom had finally decided to claim the bag as her personal seat, plopping down on it with a satisfied hum. Eevee was now gnawing on one of Mars’s claws, which Mars didn’t seem to mind—if anything, he looked amused. And Dratini had closed his eyes entirely, clearly ready for a nap.

Ashley grinned, letting the sound of her Pokémon fill the room as the tension from the past few weeks melted away. Ashley clapped her hands together, snapping her Pokémon’s attention away from their antics. “Alright, team! Circle up!”

Mars, already familiar with Ashley’s pep talks, immediately trotted over and sat down, his tail flame casting a warm glow across the room. Vulcan followed suit, stretching lazily before settling next to Mars, looking just as ready. Dratini uncoiled from Ashley’s lap and slithered to the floor, where he lifted his head curiously, his sapphire eyes blinking at her expectantly. Gloom waddled over next, humming softly as she plopped down with a faint rustle of petals. Eevee, meanwhile, bounded forward, skidding to a halt with a dramatic flourish of her fluffy tail.

Ashley grinned, crossing her arms as she surveyed them. “Okay, listen up. So far, you’ve probably noticed that Vulcan, Mars, and Neptune have some pretty cool names, right?”

At the mention of their names, Vulcan lifted his head proudly, Mars puffed out his chest, and Neptune’s Poké Ball gave a faint shake from its spot on Ashley’s nightstand, like he knew he was being talked about.

Ashley smirked. “Exactly. Cool names. But they’re not just cool—they’re powerful. They’re named after Gods from ancient mythology. And you know what that means?”

Eevee tilted her head, her ears twitching. Gloom blinked.

“It means,” Ashley said, leaning forward dramatically, “you’re all joining the Pantheon.”

Dratini let out a soft trill, clearly intrigued, while Eevee’s tail wagged so fast it blurred. Gloom just tilted her head, looking more thoughtful than excited. Ashley dropped to her knees, her voice warm as she explained.

“This is a team, but it’s also a family. And names? They’re important. They tell people who you are and what you’re about. You’re not just Pokémon—you’re legends in the making. So... let’s make it official.”

She straightened and held her arms out wide. “Who’s first?”

Dratini, clearly caught up in the moment, raised his head high and let out a confident cry.

Ashley grinned. “Oh, we’ve got a volunteer! Alright, big guy, let’s see…” She tapped her chin, pacing slightly as the others watched. “You’re sleek, you’re elegant, and you’ve got this regal vibe going on. Plus, you’re a Dragon-type, which basically makes you royalty already. What do you think about… Apollo?”

Dratini’s eyes lit up immediately. He reared up slightly, his tiny tail swishing as he trilled his approval.

“Alright! Apollo it is!” Ashley cheered, crouching down to rub under his chin, which earned her a happy hum. “The God of the Sun and Prophecy. Pretty fitting for a future Dragonite, don’t you think? A Golden Dragon in the making!”

Next up, Gloom waddled forward, her stubby arms swaying as she stepped closer. She looked almost shy, which made Ashley’s smile soften.

“You, my dear, are strong and sweet,” Ashley said, kneeling down to meet Gloom’s gaze. “And honestly? You’ve got this whole ‘queen of the garden’ vibe. What do you think about Proserpina?”

Gloom blinked, her petals quivering slightly. Ashley waited, her voice gentle. “She was the Goddess of Spring and Growth, but also—get this—the Queen of the Underworld. Sweet on the surface, but don’t mess with her.”

That seemed to do the trick. Gloom let out a happy hum, nodding enthusiastically before twirling in place. Ashley laughed and reached out to pat her head. “Proserpina it is. Welcome to the Pantheon, Queen of Flowers.”

Finally, all eyes turned to Eevee, who had been bouncing on her paws, clearly trying to play it cool but failing miserably. Ashley knelt down and scratched under her chin, earning an immediate purr-like noise.

“Now you, buddy. You’re versatile, adaptable, and honestly? Pretty dang charming. But you’re also a little diva, aren’t you?” Eevee wagged her tail, clearly agreeing.

Ashley leaned back, thinking hard. “Hmm… how about Venus?”

Eevee froze, then practically vibrated as she bounced in place, her paws tapping against the floor in excitement.

Ashley laughed, scooping him up into her arms. “Venus it is—the Goddess of Beauty and Love. It fits, doesn’t it?”

Eevee nuzzled into her chest in response, letting out a happy squeak. Ashley held her close for a moment before setting her back down.

She stood, looking over the group as they all adjusted to their new names. Apollo curled his tail around himself, his eyes half-closed as if already embracing his regal title. Proserpina gave a tiny bow, her petals fluttering, while Venus sat proudly, her tail swishing like she’d been born for the spotlight. Mars and Vulcan stood behind them, both looking equally proud—like older brothers keeping an eye on their younger siblings.

Ashley clapped her hands again, drawing their attention one last time. “Alright, Gods and Legends, now that we’ve got our names sorted, it’s time to start living up to them. We’ve got training to do, battles to win, and plenty of adventures ahead.”

She knelt down, meeting their eyes with a grin. “But tonight? We celebrate.”

Venus barked excitedly, Apollo trilled, and Proserpina swayed happily. Even Mars and Vulcan let out matching barks, clearly on board with the plan.

Ashley grabbed her bag, pulling out an assortment of Poké Puffs and snacks, and spread them out across the bed. “Dig in, everyone. You earned it.”

The Pokémon didn’t hesitate, diving into the treats while Ashley leaned back against the pillows, her heart full as she watched them. This team—no, this family—wasn’t just strong. They were unstoppable.

And as Venus tackled Mars over the last Poke Puff, and Apollo curled up on her lap, Ashley couldn’t help but grin. The Pantheon was just getting started.

Ashley stretched out on the bed, the soft hum of her Pokédex filling the room as she flipped through the profiles of her newest team members. She propped herself up on one elbow, her other hand idly scratching behind Venus’s ear as the little Eevee curled up by her side, already half-asleep. Vulcan had claimed the foot of the bed, his tail flame burning low and steady, casting warm flickers of light across the walls. Mars had sprawled out near the pillows, his claws lightly digging into the fabric as he snored softly, while Apollo coiled loosely near Ashley’s legs, his sleek body radiating a gentle, calming warmth. Proserpina had made herself at home near Ashley’s shoulder, her petals rising and falling in rhythm with her breathing.

Ashley tilted the Pokédex slightly, tapping the screen as she pulled up Venus’s profile first. The little Eevee perked her head up as if she knew she was being examined and let out a soft, proud chirp.

“Alright, let’s see what we’ve got,” Ashley murmured, scanning the details. “Eevee, female, ability—Adaptability.” She paused, raising her brows. “Wow, Venus, that’s actually really solid. Boosts same-type moves. Not bad at all.”

Venus wiggled closer, her fluffy tail twitching as if in agreement. Ashley grinned and kept reading.

“Moves: Tackle, Baby-Doll Eyes, Charm, and Copycat.” She leaned back a little, thoughtful. “Okay, so you’re cute—no surprise there—but you’ve also got some strategy moves in the mix. I can work with that.” Then Ashley’s eyes landed on the note at the bottom, and her grin widened. “Oh-ho, what’s this? Egg move: Wish.”

Venus tilted her head, ears perking up at Ashley’s tone.

“Wish is huge, girl. Healing mid-battle? That’s game-changing. We’re definitely unlocking that as soon as we can.” She reached down and gave Venus a quick scratch under the chin, earning a happy squeak.

Satisfied, Ashley swiped over to the next profile, her eyes landing on Apollo’s stats. The Dratini let out a soft hum, his tail lightly brushing against her leg as if he was already listening.

“Dratini, male, ability—Shed Skin,” Ashley read, nodding. “That’s a lifesaver. Status conditions are going to have a hard time sticking to you.”

Apollo puffed out his chest—or, well, tried to—and let out a proud trill. Ashley chuckled but kept going.

“Wrap, Thunder Wave, and Twister,” she listed, pausing thoughtfully. “Okay, Wrap’s good for control, Thunder Wave’s clutch for paralysis, and Twister… not bad for a starting Dragon move. Could use more punch, but we’ll get there.”

She scrolled down and let out a low whistle. “Egg move: Supersonic. Confusion? Oh, you sneaky little serpent. That’s going to make life very interesting.”

Apollo flicked his tail, clearly pleased with himself. Ashley shook her head and grinned before moving on to Proserpina’s profile.

The Gloom stirred slightly, her petals fluttering as Ashley turned her attention to the screen.

“Gloom, female,” Ashley began, glancing over at Proserpina, who let out a soft hum. “Ability—Chlorophyll. Boosts speed in the sun. Hah, Blaine’s Sunny Day training is going to pay off.”

Proserpina swayed in place, clearly enjoying the praise.

“Absorb, Growth, Poison Powder, Sleep Powder, Stun Powder, and Sweet Scent.” Ashley leaned back against her pillows, whistling softly. “Talk about versatility. Status effects, healing, and crowd control—you’re basically my trump card, huh?”

Proserpina wiggled her leaves proudly, earning a laugh from Ashley.

Then Ashley spotted the note at the bottom of the profile and raised her brows. “Egg move: Synthesis? Oh, now that’s perfect. Extra healing potential, especially in the sun. You and Vulcan are going to make a killer combo.”

Proserpina gave a happy spin, her petals rustling softly as Ashley reached out to pat her on the head.

With all the profiles reviewed, Ashley set the Pokédex aside and stretched her arms over her head. “You guys are seriously awesome,” she said, her voice warm and proud. “This team’s shaping up to be unstoppable.”

Venus let out a soft yip, Apollo trilled again, and Proserpina hummed happily. Even Vulcan cracked an eye open long enough to wag his tail before curling back up again.

Ashley yawned, suddenly feeling the weight of the day as the adrenaline started to wear off. She tugged the blanket over herself—or at least she tried to before realizing she didn’t really need it. Between Vulcan’s warmth at the foot of the bed, Apollo coiled near her legs, and Proserpina snuggled up at her shoulder, she was already surrounded by enough heat to keep her cozy.

Not to be outdone, Venus wriggled her way under Ashley’s arm and flopped onto her chest, her soft fur practically radiating warmth. Ashley chuckled, reaching up to pet her gently.

“Alright, alright, you win. Everyone gets cuddles tonight.”

With a final yawn, Ashley let her head drop back against the pillow, her hand still resting lightly on Venus’s back. Her team’s soft breathing filled the room, and as her eyes drifted shut, she couldn’t help but smile.

They’d come so far already—training in Blaine’s gym, braving Seafoam Islands, discovering Articuno—and now, with three new teammates added to the Pantheon, the journey ahead felt even more exciting.

Ashley let her mind wander as sleep crept in, imagining all the battles, challenges, and adventures waiting for them. But for now, surrounded by her Pokémon and the steady warmth they provided, she let herself relax.

Tomorrow would come soon enough. For tonight, they rested—together, like the family they’d become.

Chapter Text

Ashley leaned against the headboard of her bed, the dim glow of her bedside lamp casting soft shadows across the room. Her notebook lay open on her lap, pages already filled with diagrams, move sets, and strategies, but now she was staring at the latest blank sheet, the pen in her hand tapping lightly against the paper. Vulcan was curled up at the foot of the bed, his fur warm against her toes, while Mars sat perched by the window, his tail flame flickering gently as he stared out into the night. The room was quiet except for the faint sound of their breathing, the occasional rustle as one of them shifted in their sleep.

Sometimes, Ashley still couldn’t believe it—six Pokémon. A full team. It hadn’t even been two months since she left Pallet Town, yet here she was, sitting in a Pokémon Center, surrounded by Pokémon who were more than just teammates. They were family. Her Pantheon.

She smiled softly, glancing down at her notes and tapping the edge of her pen against the page again. It wasn’t just their names—Mars, Vulcan, Neptune, Venus, Proserpina, Apollo—that made them feel like Gods. It was their potential. Every single one of them was capable of becoming something powerful, something awe-inspiring, and Ashley was determined to make sure they did.

Her eyes drifted to Neptune’s Poké Ball, sitting on her nightstand. “The God of the Sea,” she murmured under her breath, smiling at the thought. Neptune was already strong—his Ice Shard packed a punch, and Body Slam was no joke—but his true power wasn’t in brute strength. No, Neptune’s strength was in control. If she could train him to master Rain Dance and then add Thunder to his arsenal, he’d be able to create devastating thunderstorms. Pair that with Ice-type moves like Blizzard, and Neptune wouldn’t just be a powerhouse—he’d be unstoppable. The idea of her Lapras summoning hailstorms and lightning strikes made her grin.

“Neptune, the stormbringer,” she said, testing the title. It fit.

Her pen scratched against the notebook as she jotted down the combination ideas, already planning out training drills for when they had time to get back to work. But Neptune wasn’t the only one she had big plans for. Ashley’s gaze shifted to Proserpina’s Poké Ball, her mind already turning over ideas.

Proserpina, her Gloom, might not be flashy like Neptune, but Ashley could see the potential in her too. She’d already shown she could be resilient, using her status moves to disrupt opponents and keep control of the battlefield. With a little more focus, Proserpina could become the kind of Pokémon that other trainers hated facing—durable, tricky, and impossible to knock out. Moves like Synthesis and Sleep Powder gave her natural recovery options, and Ashley was already considering teaching her Leech Seed once she evolved.

“Definitely the team’s tank,” Ashley muttered, sketching a quick diagram of Proserpina’s possible strategies. “She’s the one who keeps everyone else in the fight.”

Ashley’s pen paused as her eyes landed on Venus’s Poké Ball, and she felt her excitement flicker just a little higher. Venus was still young, still small, but Eevee’s true strength was in her potential. She could evolve into eight different forms, and each one brought something different to the table.

Ashley chewed on the end of her pen, her mind racing through possibilities. A Vaporeon would give her another Water-type, but that felt redundant with Neptune on the team. Jolteon’s speed and Electric moves would be great for coverage, especially against Water-types, but Espeon’s Psychic abilities were tempting too. Then there was Flareon—another Fire-type—which she dismissed almost immediately, and Umbreon’s defensive capabilities, which could make Venus another tank alongside Proserpina.

“Too many choices,” she groaned, flopping back against the pillows and staring at the ceiling. Venus was playful and quick, but she also had that soft, caring side—like when she’d curled up next to Apollo earlier, letting him rest his head on her back. That could lean toward Sylveon, a Fairy-type, which would give her an edge against Dragons, but Ashley wasn’t sure yet.

“Guess we’ll see what you want to be,” she said aloud, already imagining Venus stepping into battle, elegant and confident no matter what form she took.

Her eyes finally landed on Vulcan, who had shifted to rest his chin on her foot. She reached down to scratch his ears, her smile widening as he let out a low, contented rumble. Vulcan had already proven himself—fast, fiery, and fiercely loyal. But Ashley wasn’t done pushing him.

“Speed and fire,” she murmured, running her fingers along the notebook’s edge. “And if we add Iron Tail to the mix...” Her pen flew across the page as she sketched out potential combinations. Iron Tail could act like the forge hammer Vulcan was named after—blunt, heavy, and devastating. Combined with his natural agility and firepower, Vulcan could become a true powerhouse.

Ashley leaned back again, staring at the notes spread out in front of her. Her Pantheon wasn’t just coming together—it was thriving. Neptune, the stormbringer. Proserpina, the tank. Venus, the shapeshifter. Vulcan, the hammer. Mars, her fiery warrior. And Apollo...

Her gaze shifted to the last Poké Ball, and her smile softened. Apollo was still young, still learning, but there was something about him—something steady, calm, and full of potential. She could already imagine him as a Dragonite, soaring through the skies and commanding the battlefield with ease. But first, they had to work on building his strength and confidence.

Ashley closed the notebook, setting it aside and stretching out her legs. Her Pokémon were already drifting off around her, Vulcan sprawled across the bed and Mars curled up by the window again. She leaned over, brushing her fingers lightly against each Poké Ball as if grounding herself in the reality of it all.

“Not bad for two months,” she whispered, her voice barely loud enough to be heard over the sound of their breathing. She pulled the blanket up, letting her eyes drift closed as the day’s excitement finally caught up with her.

Her last thought before she fell asleep was simple, but it made her grin anyway—her Pantheon was only just getting started.

The following few days were focused on making sure Apollo, Venus, and Proserpina learned the TM moves Swift, Double Team, and Substitute. After that, Ashley sent Apollo and Proserpina with Mars and Vulcan to be mentored in the move Sunny Day. Ashley had wanted to do the same with Venus, but her Eevee was more interested in learning Rain Dance with Neptune. Which is what the three of them were doing at the training grounds of the Fuchsia City’s Pokemon Center.

The faint scent of rain lingering in the air. Her sleeves were rolled up, her hair damp and sticking to her forehead as she crouched beside Neptune and Venus, both Pokémon looking up at her with eager eyes. The sun peeked out from the receding clouds, casting a soft glow over the training field, but Ashley wasn’t ready to call it quits just yet.

“Alright, guys,” she said, brushing stray strands of hair out of her face as she gestured at the puddles dotting the field. “Let’s give it one more shot. Neptune, you’ve got the rhythm down—you just need to hold it longer this time. And Venus? Keep moving. You’re helping him build momentum, so don’t stop until the rain’s pouring.”

Neptune let out a low, determined trill, while Venus gave an enthusiastic bark, her tail wagging as droplets clung to her fur. Ashley grinned, clapping her hands. “That’s what I like to hear! Let’s make this one count.”

Neptune shifted his weight, the water rippling around him as he lifted his head toward the sky. Ashley stepped back, giving him room, but her eyes flicked to Venus as the little Eevee began bounding in tight circles, her movements light and graceful. It was almost like she was dancing—no, conducting—as she leaped and twirled around Neptune, sending splashes of water into the air.

“Good, keep it up!” Ashley encouraged, her voice carrying over the sound of Neptune’s cry as the Lapras let out a haunting, melodic call. The air thickened again, a faint mist curling up from the grass, and Ashley felt the temperature drop.

Venus’s movements grew faster, her paws kicking up sprays of water as her fur shimmered with the moisture in the air. Ashley bit her lip, her heart pounding. The clouds overhead darkened, heavier this time, and a single drop hit her cheek.

“Yes!” Ashley shouted, pumping her fist. “That’s it! You’ve got it!”

Neptune’s cry rose again, and the rain began in earnest—first a light drizzle, then a steady pour that pounded against the ground and rippled through the puddles. Venus let out a delighted bark, spinning in the rain as her fur slicked down, and Ashley laughed, tilting her head back to feel the drops on her face.

Neptune let out a triumphant trill, water droplets rolling off his shell as he turned to look at Ashley, his eyes bright. Ashley stepped forward, wrapping her arms around his neck despite the rain soaking through her clothes. “You did it, Neptune! You made it rain for real this time!”

Venus darted over, shaking herself off and sending more water flying. “Hey! Watch it!” Ashley protested with a laugh, trying to shield herself, but Venus just gave her an unapologetic grin before bouncing back toward Neptune, who greeted her with a low hum.

Ashley wiped the water from her face, her grin never fading. “I think we’ve got our weather team in the making,” she said, crouching to scratch Venus behind the ears. “Imagine what we’ll be able to do when we add Thunder to the mix.”

Venus yipped in excitement, clearly already sold on the idea, while Neptune let out a soft, rumbling sound of approval. Ashley stood, stretching her arms and glancing toward the other end of the training grounds, where Apollo and Proserpina had been working earlier with Mars and Vulcan.

She spotted them huddled under a makeshift shelter, their training momentarily paused as they waited out the rain. Proserpina looked annoyed by the dampness, her petals drooping slightly, but Apollo seemed unfazed, curling his long body into a loose coil as Mars and Vulcan watched the rain with wary expressions.

Ashley shook her head, chuckling. “Guess they’re not as thrilled about the weather as you two are,” she said, glancing back at Neptune and Venus. “We’ll have to get them on board eventually, though. If we can combine Rain Dance and Sunny Day, we’ll have total control over the battlefield.”

Neptune hummed, his eyes half-closed as he basked in the cool rain, while Venus bounced on her paws, clearly still riding the excitement. Ashley grinned, already imagining how the combinations could work in a real battle.

“Neptune’s got the power to make storms,” she mused aloud, resting a hand against his shell. “And with Thunder added to the mix, no one’s getting close without taking a hit. Venus? You’re quick and unpredictable, which means you can mess with opponents while Neptune keeps the pressure up.”

Venus barked in agreement, clearly pleased with the praise, and Ashley nodded. “It’s perfect. You’ll be like the tide—calm one moment, overwhelming the next.”

She turned her gaze toward the other half of her team, her grin softening. “And those four? They’re fire and sunlight. Mars and Vulcan already have power, but Apollo and Proserpina? They’re going to round out the team perfectly.”

Her mind buzzed with possibilities as the rain finally began to slow, the clouds starting to break apart. Ashley ran a hand through her wet hair, her lips curving into a determined smile. “We’re getting stronger every day,” she said quietly, mostly to herself but loud enough for Neptune and Venus to hear. “We’re building something amazing.”

Venus nuzzled against her leg, and Neptune gave a low, contented hum. Ashley’s smile widened.

“Alright, guys,” she said, clapping her hands. “Let’s take it from the top!”

Neptune was lazily floating in a shallow pool, his shell glistening under the sun as he practiced summoning faint wisps of mist to mimic Rain Dance. Venus darted around the edge of the water, splashing playfully while occasionally leaping into Neptune’s mist, her fluffy fur slicked down but her energy endless. Apollo coiled nearby, focused and intent as he practiced Double Team, his copies flickering faintly before solidifying. Proserpina stood rooted in the grass, her petals swaying as she used Sweet Scent to calm the team between drills. Mars and Vulcan watched from the sidelines, taking a rare break after working with Apollo and Proserpina on Sunny Day maneuvers earlier.

Ashley stood back, hands on her hips, smiling at the chaos of activity. Her team was starting to move like an actual unit now. They weren’t just individual Pokémon doing their own thing—they were learning to complement one another. The Pantheon, as she liked to call them, was starting to feel like something powerful.

But, of course, the moment felt too good to last.

“Well, look at this,” a voice sneered from behind her. Ashley turned to see two girls about her age leaning against the fence, their arms crossed and their expressions smug. They were dressed in matching pastel outfits, their hair styled in intricate curls that probably took hours to get just right.

Ashley blinked, wiping her hands on her shorts. “Uh, can I help you?”

One of the girls, a blonde with an obnoxiously glittery scarf, tilted her head and gave Ashley’s team a once-over. “Are you seriously trying to be a Gym Challenger?”

Ashley stiffened, immediately on edge. “Yeah? So what?”

The other girl, a brunette with way too many bracelets jangling on her wrists, laughed. “Wow. That’s so… basic. Gym battles are, like, ancient history. No one actually cares about them anymore. Coordinators are where it’s at now.”

Ashley blinked again, genuinely confused. “Coordinators?”

The blonde scoffed. “Yeah, like in Pokémon Contests. Pokémon Coordinators are way more skilled than some random Gym Challenger throwing attacks around. It’s not just about power—it’s about style, grace, and presentation. You wouldn’t get it.”

“Wouldn’t get it?” Ashley echoed, crossing her arms. “Are you kidding me? What do you even think Gym Battles are? You don’t just throw attacks—you have to strategize, adapt, and actually win.”

“Oh, please,” the brunette said, rolling her eyes. “Battles are so rough and messy. Coordinators have class. Pokémon Contests actually mean something. You should stop embarrassing yourself and step it up.”

Ashley narrowed her eyes, her temper flaring. Vulcan growled softly at her side, clearly not a fan of the attitude either. “Right. And what exactly am I supposed to do? Toss sparkles at my opponents until they give up? No thanks.”

The girls both scoffed and turned away, muttering something under their breath about “wannabes” and “wasting time.” Ashley clenched her fists but forced herself to let it go. Barely.

Instead, she pulled out her PokéNav and started typing furiously.

“Coordinators,” she muttered, scrolling through search results. “What even is this? Oh—okay, contests, stages, routines…” She paused, leaning closer to the screen. “Wait, there’s one in Fuchsia City?”

Ashley glanced up at her team. Venus had wandered over, tilting her head curiously at the screen. Ashley showed her the picture of a contest stage—a grand setup with lights, ribbons, and Pokémon performing dazzling moves. Venus let out a high-pitched bark, clearly interested.

“You think that’s cool?” Ashley asked, raising an eyebrow. Venus wagged her tail excitedly.

Ashley sat back on the grass, her mind spinning. She’d spent so much time training for battles—thinking about strategies, weaknesses, and counterattacks. But this? This was a whole different world. And if she was honest, it kind of intrigued her.

She glanced at Venus, who was already bouncing in place. “Alright, girl,” Ashley said, smirking. “You want to give it a shot?”

Venus barked again, hopping in a circle. Neptune let out a low hum from the water, and even Apollo peeked over, curious about the excitement.

Ashley stood, brushing herself off. “Fine. Let’s see what this Coordinator stuff is all about. But don’t get too comfortable—we’re not ditching battles. If we’re doing this, we’re doing both.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, stepping closer as if to remind her of their real focus. Ashley grinned, crouching to ruffle his fur. “Don’t worry, Vulcan. You’ll always be my hammer. But maybe Venus can be the sparkles.”

With that, she called her team together, quickly gathering her things before heading off inside. Her mind was still racing with questions, but she couldn’t help the buzz of excitement building in her chest.

Gym Battles were her main goal—that hadn’t changed. But contests? That could be a challenge worth taking, too. And Ashley never backed down from a challenge.

Ashley pushed through the Pokémon Center doors, the familiar chime ringing overhead as she strode inside, her steps quick and purposeful. Venus trotted beside her, her fluffy tail swishing with every bounce of her paws. Vulcan padded along at Ashley’s other side, his sharp eyes scanning the room as if ready to pounce on anything out of line. Ashley’s excitement bubbled just beneath the surface, but she did her best to keep it cool as she approached the counter where Nurse Joy was sorting through a stack of medical charts.

“Hey, Nurse Joy!” Ashley greeted, leaning casually against the counter while Venus hopped up to place her paws on the edge. “I need a favor.”

Nurse Joy glanced up with a warm smile. “Ashley! What can I do for you?” Her eyes flickered down to Venus. “And I see you’re traveling with quite the energetic Eevee today.”

Ashley chuckled, scratching Venus behind the ear. “She’s definitely a handful. But I think she’s ready for something big.” She tapped her fingers against the countertop. “I want to register as a Kanto Coordinator. Oh, and sign up for the Fuchsia City Contest.”

The words tumbled out faster than Ashley expected, but she squared her shoulders, determined to follow through. Venus let out an eager chirp, hopping back down and wagging her tail as if to echo the sentiment.

Nurse Joy paused, raising an eyebrow as she set down the charts. “A Pokémon Contest? Really?” She tilted her head, studying Ashley with curious but supportive eyes. “That’s a bit of a change from Gym Challenges. Are you sure about this?”

Ashley laughed nervously, rubbing the back of her neck. “Honestly? Not completely. But I figured it’s worth a shot. Something new, you know? And besides...” She glanced down at Venus, who was practically glowing with excitement. “I think this one was born to show off.”

Nurse Joy’s expression softened as she pulled up the registration files on her computer. “That’s the right attitude. Trying new things is what being a Pokémon Trainer is all about.” She tapped a few keys, then gestured toward the screen. “Okay, let’s get you registered. Name, Trainer ID, and primary Pokémon for this contest?”

Ashley leaned closer, reading over the form while Vulcan sniffed curiously at the printer beside the desk. “Ashley Ketchum. Trainer ID 01301.” She hesitated for only a second before patting Venus’s head. “And I’ll be using Venus.”

“An Eevee, huh?” Nurse Joy typed it in, nodding as she scrolled through the options. “Good choice. Versatile, adorable, and flexible for appeal rounds. Plus, with the right training, she’ll have no problem holding her own in battle.”

Ashley exhaled, feeling a bit of the tension drain from her shoulders. “You really think so?”

“Absolutely.” Nurse Joy hit ‘enter’ and the printer whirred to life, spitting out a small slip of paper. “And for what it’s worth, you’re not the first Gym Challenger to try their hand at contests. Wallace—he’s one of the best examples. Water-type Gym Leader, Top Coordinator, he even has Sinnoh Cup named after him.”

Ashley blinked. “Wait, Wallace? The Wallace? No way.”

“Way.” Nurse Joy handed her the slip, smiling as she leaned against the counter. “If he can do it, why can’t you?”

Ashley grinned, tucking the registration slip safely into her pocket. “Guess I’d better start taking this seriously, then.” She looked down at Venus, who gave an excited bark in response. “No pressure, huh?”

Nurse Joy handed her another paper with the contest schedule. “The contest is in three days. It’s single-Pokémon only, so Venus will have to carry you through both the appeal and battle rounds.”

Ashley nodded, already running through potential strategies in her head. “Got it—focus on versatility. Thanks, Nurse Joy.”

“Anytime,” Nurse Joy replied. “And remember—contests are as much about heart as they are about skill. Don’t get so caught up in the details that you forget to have fun.”

Ashley laughed, saluting as she turned to leave. “Fun, right. I’ll keep that in mind.”

Vulcan trotted after her as they made their way toward their room, but Venus paused to give Nurse Joy one last wag of her tail before bounding after Ashley. “Well, looks like we’re Coordinator trainees now,” Ashley said, mostly to herself but loud enough for Vulcan and Venus to hear. Vulcan gave a low bark of approval while Venus practically danced in place. Ashley couldn’t help but smile. “Alright, let’s do some research. We’ve got three days to turn you into a star.”

Ashley entered her room, the moment the door clicked shut, Venus leaped onto the bed, hopping excitedly from one pillow to the next while Vulcan sprawled out on the floor, clearly ready to nap.

Ashley dropped her bag, pulling out her PokéNav, her fingers already scrolling through the contest archives as she kicked off her shoes and sank into the chair. Vulcan sprawled out on the rug near the door, his sharp eyes flicking toward the screen while his ears twitched at every little sound outside.

“Alright, Venus,” Ashley said, pulling up a video file. “Let’s see what we’re up against.” She clicked play, and the screen lit up with footage of Wallace in the middle of a massive stadium, his signature Milotic gleaming under the spotlights.

The crowd roared as Milotic unleashed a dazzling Water Pulse, the rippling energy catching and refracting light until it looked like glittering diamonds were suspended in midair. Then, with the grace of a dancer, Milotic twisted through her own attack, shattering the droplets with a twirl of her tail and sending sparkling rain cascading across the stage.

Ashley whistled low. “Okay. That’s… fancy.” She leaned back, resting one elbow on the desk as Venus sat up straighter, her fluffy tail twitching with interest. “No wonder everyone freaks out about him. This isn’t just battling—it’s like watching a whole performance.”

Venus let out a soft squeak, scooting closer to the screen as another round began. This time, Wallace’s Ludicolo spun into action, creating a rhythmic dance with Energy Balls that hovered and pulsed in time with the music playing in the background. When it finished, the orbs exploded into shimmering green lights, leaving the judges clapping and the crowd screaming.

Ashley reached over to scratch behind Venus’s ear. “You like that, huh?” Venus chirped, her ears perking up as if she were already imagining herself on that kind of stage. Ashley grinned. “You think you can outshine that guy? ’Cause I think you can.”

Vulcan snorted from the floor, clearly unimpressed by all the sparkle and flair. Ashley smirked, glancing down at him. “Oh, don’t start. Just because you’d rather roast things than make them pretty doesn’t mean Venus can’t rock this.”

Vulcan huffed but didn’t argue further, instead rolling over to face the wall with a dramatic sigh. Ashley turned her focus back to the screen, rewinding the footage to break down the performance. “Okay, so it’s all about timing,” she muttered, grabbing her notebook and jotting down notes. “Not just hitting the move right but making it look good while you’re doing it. And transitions—those have to be seamless.”

Venus let out a sharp bark of agreement, hopping off the bed and landing beside Ashley’s chair. She pawed at Ashley’s leg until her trainer looked down. “What?” Ashley asked, raising a brow. “You’re already hyped? We haven’t even planned your routine yet.”

Venus squeaked again and spun in a circle before striking a little pose, her head held high, and tail perfectly fluffed. Ashley burst out laughing. “Okay, okay! I get it—you’re ready to be a star.” She reached down and scooped Venus into her arms, spinning her around once before setting her back down. “But let’s work on the details before we start celebrating, alright?”

The next clip played, showing Wallace’s Milotic using Aqua Ring to create a dazzling halo of water that refracted light into rainbows as it moved gracefully across the stage. Ashley paused the video, her eyes narrowing in thought. “We’re gonna need a lot more practice with Rain Dance.”

Venus’s ears flicked, and she let out an uncertain chirp. Ashley gave her a reassuring pat. “Don’t worry—we’ll get there. We’ve already started, and Neptune’s a natural at water moves. He can help you perfect it. And we’ll figure out how to make you stand out, I promise.”

She glanced back at the screen as the footage shifted to the battle round, Wallace commanding Milotic with calm precision as it countered every attack with fluid grace. Ashley leaned forward, her pencil flying across the page as she took more notes.

“Look at how he controls the flow of the battle,” she murmured, mostly to herself. “It’s not just about overwhelming power. He’s forcing his opponents to play by his rules—shifting the tempo, using the field to his advantage. We can do that too.”

Venus padded over and climbed onto her lap, pressing her head against Ashley’s chest as if to say, I trust you. Ashley grinned, scratching the Eevee’s ears. “You’re gonna be amazing, Venus. Just wait.”

She spent the next hour dissecting more of Wallace’s performances, pausing and replaying sections to study the smallest details—how he signaled commands, how the Pokémon synchronized their movements, even how the lights and music added to the effects. Venus stayed glued to her side the entire time, occasionally chirping and bouncing when she saw something particularly cool.

By the time Ashley finally shut the PokéNav off. She leaned back in her chair with a satisfied stretch. “Alright, Venus. Tomorrow, we hit the training grounds and start making this routine ours.”

Venus yipped in excitement, hopping onto the bed and twirling in a quick spin before flopping onto her side. Ashley laughed, scooping her up and setting her down beside Vulcan, who barely cracked one eye open to acknowledge the new cuddle buddy.

Ashley climbed into bed, pulling the blanket up and letting her Pokémon snuggle close. Her mind buzzed with ideas, but for now, she let herself relax, lulled by the steady warmth of her team and the quiet hum of excitement for what tomorrow would bring.

The next three days passed flying, as Venus and Ashley focused on the Pokémon Contest, while the rest of the Pantheon focused on training with each other. Ashley’s notebook was filled with plans—notes on timing, combos, and strategies she wanted to try, until the right ones fit. Then the contest day came, and they were at the Contest Hall. The place was huge, but Ashley did not allow herself to be intimidated.

Ashley adjusted the last strand of hair into place, her reflection in the mirror staring back at her with a mixture of nerves and determination. The sakura blossom hairpin shimmered faintly under the soft glow of the dressing room lights, adding a delicate touch to her otherwise fierce expression. She tugged lightly at the sleeves of her fuchsia kimono, smoothing out any lingering wrinkles before straightening up. Venus sat on the counter beside her, paws neatly tucked under her chest, her fluffy tail twitching with barely contained excitement.

“Alright, Venus,” Ashley said, turning to her partner and flashing a confident grin. “Let’s show them why Gym Challengers can rock the Contest Hall too.” Venus chirped in agreement, hopping down gracefully and landing with a soft thud before striking a playful pose.

Ashley’s grin widened, but before she could say more, the door to the backstage dressing room swung open. The two coordinators from before—the ones who had mocked her for being a Gym Challenger—were back. Their matching outfits sparkled obnoxiously under the lights, clearly meant to show off in the appeal round. The blonde one, whose hair was tied up in twin buns, crossed her arms and gave Ashley a once-over.

“So, you are here, huh?” she sneered, her tone dripping with condescension. “You’re really going through with this? Gym Challengers don’t belong in contests. You’re just going to embarrass yourself.”

The other girl, a shorter brunette with a feathered hairband, leaned against the doorframe and smirked. “Better to back out now before you make a fool of yourself in front of the judges—and everyone else.”

Ashley didn’t flinch. She stood tall, her kimono catching the light as she folded her arms. Her eyes sparkled with sharp confidence—sharp as a Sharpedo, she’d joke later—and her smile was steady.

“Oh, don’t worry about me,” Ashley said sweetly, tilting her head just enough to let the sakura pin catch their attention. “I’ll be just fine. After all, Wallace didn’t let being a Gym Leader stop him from becoming a Top Coordinator, did he?”

The taller girl froze, her face going red, while the brunette visibly deflated. Ashley could almost see the gears turning in their heads as the realization hit. Wallace—the Wallace—was a Gym Leader and a Top Coordinator. And here they were, talking down to someone who had clearly done her homework.

The sudden snickers and whispers from other coordinators nearby made it even better. Someone let out a soft “Ooh, burn,” and Ashley bit back a laugh as the two girls turned redder by the second.

“Well,” the brunette muttered, straightening up and brushing imaginary dust off her dress, “don’t think this means you’re special. Wallace is one in a million. You’re not him.”

“Nope,” Ashley shot back, her grin widening. “I’m Ashley Ketchum. And that’s more than enough.”

The taller girl huffed, grabbing her friend’s arm and dragging her out of the room. “Whatever. Don’t trip over your kimono,” she snapped before the door slammed behind them.

Ashley snorted, finally letting herself laugh as Venus jumped up to perch on the counter again, looking smug. “You see that, Venus? They didn’t stand a chance.”

Venus let out a happy squeak, spinning in a quick circle and flicking her tail dramatically. Ashley reached out and gave her a gentle scratch under the chin.

“Alright, let’s focus. We’ve got a contest to win,” Ashley said, pulling out her PokéNav and opening her notes one last time. She double-checked the routine they’d practiced—the timing, the combinations, the transitions. Venus watched her intently, ears twitching as if she could sense the excitement bubbling under her trainer’s calm exterior.

The announcement from the speakers overhead called for all contestants to gather backstage, signaling the start of the contest. Ashley took a deep breath, snapping the PokéNav shut and sliding it into her bag. Ashley could feel the energy shift. Coordinators bustled around with their Pokémon, making last-minute adjustments to costumes and props. The faint hum of chatter, the clink of accessories, and the occasional sparkle of special effects moves filled the space.

The stage lights glimmered just beyond the curtains, and Ashley could hear the crowd buzzing in anticipation. She turned to Venus one last time, crouching down and smoothing a stray tuft of fur on her partner’s chest.

“We practiced for this. You’re ready,” she said softly, her voice steady but warm. “No matter what happens out there, we’re going to give it everything we’ve got. Let’s make it rain, Venus.”

Venus nuzzled her hand, her tail flicking as she let out a determined chirp. Ashley stood, recalling her partner, and making her way to the stage.

And then, the announcer called her name.

Ashley stood at the edge of the stage, taking a steadying breath as the announcer’s voice echoed across the Contest Hall. The lights dimmed slightly, and the soft sound of rain effects played through the speakers, setting the atmosphere before the real performance even began. She felt Venus’s Poké Ball vibrate lightly in her hand, and with a flick of her wrist, she released her partner in a burst of shimmering mist from the Ball Capsule Sticker.

The mist swirled across the stage as Venus landed lightly on her paws, her sleek fur glistening under the lights. The crowd let out a soft collective gasp at the ethereal sight, and Ashley smiled. This was it. Time to shine.

“Let’s set the stage, Venus! Rain Dance!” Ashley’s voice rang out confidently, and Venus immediately raised her head high, her fur bristling with focus. She let out a musical cry as her body glowed faintly, and the air around them began to shift. A cool breeze rolled in, stirring the mist into spiraling patterns, and then droplets of water started falling from above. The artificial rain shimmered under the lights, each droplet catching the glow and scattering it like tiny diamonds.

Ashley resisted the urge to glance at the judges, though she could already hear murmurs of approval. Instead, she focused entirely on Venus, who stood at the center of the stage, her fur dampened just enough to make her shine.

“Now, Double Team!”

Venus moved in a graceful arc, and suddenly there were five of her, then seven. The illusions rippled like reflections in water, weaving through the mist and rain in perfect synchronization. The audience leaned forward, eyes darting to keep track of the real Eevee, but the shifting mirages made it nearly impossible.

Ashley grinned. That’s exactly what they wanted.

“Alright, Venus—let’s charm them next! Baby-Doll Eyes!”

The illusions froze in place, and all of them turned at once, their large, shimmering eyes wide and innocent. A soft coo rippled through the audience, and Ashley caught the faintest hint of one judge dabbing at their eyes.

“Follow it up with Charm!” Ashley called, her voice steady but warm.

Venus tilted her head adorably, her real form and the copies mimicking the gesture in unison. They pranced lightly through the mist, tails flicking and ears twitching in just the right way to amplify the cuteness factor. The rain caught their movements, making each step sparkle like they were dancing through a dream.

Ashley resisted the urge to pump her fist in triumph when the crowd let out a soft “aww.” Instead, she pressed forward.

“Let’s take it up a notch—Copycat!”

Venus paused, then glowed faintly as she mimicked her own Rain Dance, causing the drizzle to intensify briefly before settling again. The move blended seamlessly with the performance, leaving the audience wondering if it had been planned—or just another layer of illusion.

Ashley grinned, raising her hand for the final move.

“Now, Venus—Substitute!”

The illusions rippled again, but this time one of the copies shimmered and faded into a translucent shadow before disappearing entirely, leaving only a misty shape in its place. Venus darted behind it, making it seem as though she’d completely vanished.

The mist thickened, and Ashley let the moment stretch just long enough for the audience to start murmuring in surprise. Then, with a soft cry, Venus reappeared, bounding through the mist and leaping into Ashley’s waiting arms.

Ashley caught her partner easily, spinning once for dramatic effect as the lights shifted back to full brightness and the rain slowed to a stop. Venus nuzzled into her chest, her tail swishing as Ashley laughed and held her close.

The crowd erupted. Cheers and applause filled the Contest Hall as the mist dispersed, revealing the judges’ impressed expressions. One of them leaned into whisper to the others, and Ashley could tell from their nods that Venus had made quite the impression.

Ashley beamed, lifting Venus slightly so the audience could see her better. “You were amazing, Venus!” she whispered, and Venus let out a happy squeak, licking Ashley’s cheek.

As the applause continued and Ashley returned backstage, caught a glimpse of the two girls from earlier, the ones who had mocked her. They were looking far less smug than before. One of them crossed her arms and scowled, while the other gave a reluctant clap, clearly not wanting to admit defeat but unable to deny what they’d just seen.

Ashley smirked but didn’t dwell on it. She was too proud of Venus to care what anyone else thought.

Ashley leaned back against the cushioned bench, her fingers absentmindedly stroking Venus’s soft fur as the Eevee curled up in her lap. The little Pokémon let out a soft purr-like hum, clearly as pleased with herself as Ashley was. They both kept their eyes glued to the screen mounted on the wall, where the final appeal rounds were wrapping up.

The last contestant—a girl in a bright green dress with a Butterfree fluttering gracefully around her—gave a respectable performance, but Ashley couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride knowing Venus’s mirage-themed appeal had hit harder. The screen shifted, and the eight coordinators advancing to the battle rounds flashed into view.

Her heart jumped when she spotted her name—Ashley Ketchum, Pallet Town, 3rd Place. The name shimmered in bold letters under her picture, where she was mid-spin with Venus in her arms. Ashley couldn’t stop the triumphant laugh that bubbled out of her.

“We did it!” She lifted Venus up, earning a delighted squeak from the Eevee as they celebrated together.

Ashley barely had time to bask in the moment before movement to her left caught her eye. The two girls who had taunted her earlier stood frozen in front of the screen. Their names weren’t listed. Neither of them had made it through.

Ashley knew she should just keep her head down, but—nope. Not happening. She turned, plastering on the sweetest smile she could manage, and gave them a polite wave. “Better luck next time, girls!”

Venus, apparently catching the vibe, added a soft “Eevee!” that sounded suspiciously like it was mocking them.

That was the breaking point. One of the girls turned bright red and let out an angry shriek. “You—! Ugh!” She stomped her foot so hard that her flustered Skitty flinched. The other girl yanked on her arm, dragging her away before she could cause more of a scene.

Ashley bit the inside of her cheek to keep from laughing outright, but Venus had no such restraint. The little Pokémon wiggled in her lap, her tail wagging triumphantly.

“Oh, my Arceus, Venus, we’re terrible,” Ashley said, even though she didn’t sound sorry in the slightest. “But did you see their faces? Priceless.”

Venus wiggled happily again before curling back into her lap, clearly content to bask in the victory. Ashley leaned back, letting out a breath and feeling a lot lighter than she had all day.

As the round of battles flashed on the screen, Ashley’s competitive instincts stirred. She’d made it through the appeals, but now the real test was coming. She’d have to battle. She rubbed Venus’s ears gently, her eyes narrowing at the matchups on screen.

“Alright, girl,” she said, her voice dropping to a more serious tone. “You dazzled them out there, but now? We fight.”

Venus looked up at her, eyes shining with determination, and gave a firm nod.

The battle rounds passed quickly, Venus and Ashley were quick on their feet. They could strategize on the spot and their reflexes were sharp. Venus might be new in Ashley’s team, but Ashley was mentored by Blaine and gets tips from Lorelei from time to time, normal coordinators don’t stand a chance against her. They make it to the final round without breaking any sweat.

Ashley crouched down next to Venus, brushing a thumb over the fur between her ears as the soft hum of the contest hall buzzed faintly in the distance. The final round was minutes away, and yet the backstage area felt eerily quiet. It was hard to believe that just hours ago, the place had been packed—trainers adjusting costumes, last-minute pep talks, and the constant rustle of brushes smoothing fur or wings. Now, it was just her and Venus on one side, and Harry with his sleek Meowth on the other.

Ashley glanced across the room where Harry leaned casually against the wall, adjusting the sleeves of his suit jacket. His Meowth sat primly at his feet, his fur so polished he practically shimmered under the fluorescent lights. Even the coin on his forehead gleamed like he had been buffed moments before.

“Not gonna lie,” Ashley said, breaking the silence as she stood and smoothed her kimono. “This feels a little weird with just us left.”

Harry chuckled, straightening up and giving her an easy smile. “It’s always like this in the finals. Most of the others clear out once they’re knocked out, and the last two are left stewing in their nerves.”

“Nerves? What are those?” Ashley teased, flashing him a grin as Venus let out a playful “Eevee!” that earned a soft laugh from Meowth.

Harry tilted his head, studying her for a moment. “You don’t look nervous,” he admitted. “You’ve got that same energy Wallace had when I saw him compete in Hoenn. Focused but... loose. Like you’re having fun.”

Ashley blinked, momentarily stunned. Wallace? Again? She’d been using him as inspiration, but hearing someone else use the comparison out loud? That hit different.

“Wow. Uh, thanks. That’s a big compliment,” she said, rubbing the back of her neck as Venus wagged her tail excitedly. “I guess I just got lucky with a great team and some good teachers.”

Harry gave her a knowing look. “No one gets this far on luck.” He bent down to run his fingers along Meowth’s back, and the feline let out a low purr. “You’ve got skill, Ashley. Anyone watching can see that. But contests are about more than just skill. They’re about style, and you’ve got that too.”

Ashley’s eyes softened at that. “Thanks, but don’t think flattery’s gonna make me go easy on you.”

“Oh, wouldn’t dream of it,” Harry said with a smirk, stepping toward the stage entrance as the announcer’s voice boomed overhead, calling them to the final match. “Let’s give them a battle they’ll be talking about for weeks.”

Ashley followed, Venus trotting at her side with her head held high. “Count on it.”

They emerged onto the stage, and the crowd roared as the spotlights hit them. Ashley felt the familiar jolt of adrenaline settle in her chest, and she straightened her shoulders, adjusting the sleeves of her kimono as Venus hopped forward to her starting position. Across the stage, Harry and Meowth mirrored them, both radiating calm confidence.

The announcer’s voice rang out, echoing across the hall. “Ladies and gentlemen, we’ve reached the final round of the Fuchsia City Contest! On one side, we have Ashley Ketchum and her Eevee, Venus, whose mirage-themed performance wowed us earlier today! And on the other, Harry and his Meowth, the pair known for their elegance and precision! This promises to be a spectacular showdown!”

Ashley shifted her weight slightly, giving Venus one last look. “You ready, girl?” Venus let out a sharp bark, her eyes locked on Meowth. Ashley grinned and stood up, giving Harry a confident nod as the announcer finished introducing the finalists. “Let’s give them a show they won’t forget,” she said, loud enough for Harry to hear.

Harry smirked, adjusting his tie. “Wouldn’t dream of anything less,” he shot back, and his Meowth let out a sharp, confident cry as he stretched his claws.

The stage lights flared, and the announcer raised a hand. “Let the final round begin!”

Ashley grinned. “Let’s take it up a notch, Venus—Rain Dance, again!”

Venus let out a soft cry, lifting her head as the rain thickened, the droplets cascading harder and faster, adding drama to the shimmering stage. The lights dimmed further, giving the entire arena an almost underwater feel as the rain glistened in sheets.

Harry recovered quickly, his eyes narrowing as Meowth steadied himself, claws digging into the slick, rain-slicked floor of the stage. “Not bad,” he called over the sound of the shimmering droplets falling around them. “But we’re just getting started! Meowth—Swift, light up the rain!”

Meowth hissed, leaping into the air with surprising grace. His claws glowed gold again as he spun midair, releasing a spiral of glowing stars that sliced through the rain. The droplets caught the light, refracting into a cascade of tiny rainbows that danced around the arena, drawing gasps from the audience.

Ashley clenched her fist, the beauty of the move not lost on her—but she wouldn’t be outdone. “Venus, Double Team—scatter!”

Venus split again, copies flickering and darting through the rain-soaked stage like ripples across a pond. The Swift stars burst through the illusions, shattering them in flashes of light and mist, but the real Venus remained hidden in the chaos, her fluffy coat gleaming under the stage lights as the reflections rippled across her fur.

Ashley smirked, brushing a strand of hair out of her face as the damp mist clung to her kimono. “Let’s add a little drama. Venus—Charm, now!”

Venus emerged from the mist, the remaining doubles trailing behind her like shadows. Her eyes shimmered, big and innocent, as she let out a soft cry that made even hardened audience members sigh dreamily. The stage lights seemed to focus solely on her, the rain giving her an almost ethereal glow.

But Harry wasn’t fooled. “Meowth, Fury Swipes—cut through the illusions!”

Meowth darted forward with practiced precision, claws flashing as he slashed through the lingering copies. Each one burst apart in wisps of mist and light, but Ashley was already a step ahead.

“Substitute!” she called, her voice sharp.

Venus shimmered, fading just as Meowth’s claws sliced through what looked like her real form. The substitute burst apart in a glowing cloud of water droplets, leaving the real Venus perched elegantly on the far side of the stage, her tail curled like she hadn’t even broken a sweat.

The crowd gasped as the rain intensified, turning the stage into a glowing, ethereal backdrop. Ashley smirked. This wasn’t just a battle—it was a performance.

Harry narrowed his eyes. “You’re playing defense. Let’s see how long that lasts. Meowth, Feint Attack!”

Ashley’s heart skipped as Meowth lunged again, his body glowing dark and ominous as he shot through the rain like a blur. “Let’s turn this around, Venus! Baby-Doll Eyes!”

Venus’s gaze softened, glowing faintly as she locked eyes with Meowth. The Dark-type move lost momentum, and Meowth stumbled slightly, giving Venus the opening she needed.

“Now, Copycat!”

Venus’s eyes flashed, and before Harry could react, she mirrored Meowth’s Feint Attack, diving forward with a burst of speed. Her small body struck Meowth head-on, sending the cat Pokémon skidding back in the rain.

Harry gritted his teeth, but the clock was already ticking down. “Meowth, don’t stop—Swift!”

Ashley was ready. “Venus—Swift, right back at him!”

The two Pokémon launched bursts of glowing stars that collided midair, scattering sparks and light in all directions. The shimmering gold clashed with the silver rain, and the crowd roared as the stage seemed to explode with brilliance. Venus’s stars cut through, pushing back against Meowth’s weakened attack. Meowth stumbled back, panting heavily while Venus stood poised and ready, her fur glistening in the rain.

The timer on the stage beeped loudly, signaling the end of the match. Both Pokémon froze as the crowd erupted into cheers. The scoreboard flashed the results. Ashley’s breath caught in her throat as the numbers lit up—barely a handful of points separated her and Venus from Harry and Meowth. But those precious points made all the difference.

“We have our winners!” Lilian Meridian’s voice boomed through the contest hall, her excitement mirroring the roaring applause. “Ashley Ketchum and Venus take the Fuchsia Ribbon!”

Ashley froze for half a heartbeat, her mind scrambling to catch up. Then Venus let out an excited cry, leaping into her arms and nearly knocking her back with the force of her enthusiasm. Ashley laughed, spinning with her Eevee in her arms as the crowd continued to cheer.

“We did it, Venus!” Ashley beamed, holding her partner close as Venus nuzzled against her cheek, her tail wagging so fast it was almost a blur. “We actually did it!”

Harry stepped forward, his Meowth looking a little ruffled but still proud as he padded at his side. “Not bad, rookie,” he said with a crooked grin, tipping his hat slightly. “You definitely earned that ribbon.”

Ashley grinned back, shifting Venus onto her shoulder as she reached out to shake his hand. “You didn’t make it easy,” she admitted. “That Feint Attack? Almost threw us completely off balance.”

Harry shrugged. “Almost. But you and Venus? You’re sharp. I didn’t expect you to bounce back so fast.” He knelt to scratch Meowth behind the ears. “We’ll be training extra hard before our next contest. You better be ready if we meet again.”

Ashley smirked, “We’ll be ready,” she said confidently.

The spotlight swung toward her again as Lilian stepped onto the stage, carrying the Fuchsia Ribbon displayed in a clear case. “Ashley Ketchum and Venus, this is for you,” Lilian said, her smile warm as she held it out.

Ashley took it carefully, feeling its weight and smooth edges. She turned it in her hands, the light catching on the silver crown in the middle that stood up against the fuchsia color of the ribbon. It was stunning—and it was hers.

“Thank you,” she said, her voice a little softer now as reality sank in. She held it high, and the crowd cheered again, Venus yipping proudly from her shoulder.

But as the noise died down and Ashley stepped off the stage, the weight of the battle and the performance finally caught up with her. Her legs felt a little wobbly, and Venus flopped down on her head, apparently deciding she’d earned a ride.

“Well,” Ashley muttered under her breath, her grin tugging at the corner of her mouth. “Guess we showed them, huh?”

Venus chirped in agreement, flicking her tail.

Her first contest had been intense—more than she’d expected—but it had also been thrilling. She could still hear the roar of the crowd and feel the adrenaline as Venus danced through the rain. Maybe this wasn’t just a one-time thing after all.

Ashley glanced down at the ribbon again, her fingers tracing the silver pattern.

“So,” she said softly, more to herself than anyone else. “Gym battles and contests? Who says I can’t do both?”

Venus’s triumphant bark rang out, making Ashley laugh. “Looks like you agree.”

This was only the beginning.

Chapter Text

Ashley stepped through the grand, sliding doors of the Fuchsia City Gym, her heart pounding with excitement. The atmosphere inside was dim, with flickering torches casting eerie shadows along the walls. The faint scent of incense hung in the air, adding to the mysterious, almost theatrical vibe. She could already tell this Gym wasn’t going to be straightforward—and that only made her grin wider.

As she approached the front desk, a young attendant in a sleek black uniform looked up and greeted her with a polite bow. “Welcome to the Fuchsia City Gym. Are you here to challenge Leader Koga?”

“You bet I am,” Ashley said, adjusting her bag. “I’ve been looking forward to this.”

The attendant gave her a sharp nod but didn’t reach for any paperwork or registration forms. Instead, she gestured toward the back of the room, where the faint outline of a maze loomed, walls rising high and twisting unpredictably. “To earn the right to battle Leader Koga, you must first make it through the ninja maze. It’s designed to test your reflexes, instincts, and ability to handle traps. Be warned—hidden ninjas are stationed inside. If you’re caught, you’ll be forced back to the start.”

Ashley’s grin only widened. “A ninja maze? Seriously? That’s so cool.”

The attendant blinked, clearly not expecting that reaction. Most challengers groaned at the mention of traps. But Ashley was already reaching for her belt, plucking Vulcan’s Poké Ball and releasing her trusty Growlithe in a flash of light.

Vulcan stretched as he emerged, shaking out his fur and giving an eager bark as his tail wagged. Ashley knelt down and ran her fingers through his thick fur, lowering her voice so only he could hear. “Alright, buddy. This maze is full of ambushes and traps, but I’m counting on your nose to sniff out the right path and avoid the ninjas. Think you’re up for the challenge?”

Vulcan barked again, sharper this time, and gave her an enthusiastic nudge with his head. Ashley laughed and straightened up, brushing off her skirt as she adjusted her bag. “Let’s do this.”

The moment they stepped into the maze, the air thickened, like the walls themselves were closing in to listen. The torches along the narrow corridors flickered, their flames casting jagged shadows that danced ominously across the stone. Ashley swallowed, her fingers brushing against Vulcan’s fur for reassurance. The Growlithe didn’t flinch. His ears twitched, nose pressed low to the ground as he padded forward, his tail wagging just enough to let her know he wasn’t spooked—just focused.

“Alright, buddy,” Ashley murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. “You’re in charge. Sniff us out of this mess.”

Vulcan let out a quiet bark, his paws moving with purpose as he veered left. Ashley followed, keeping her steps light and mimicking the crouched, stealthy posture she’d seen in those ninja flicks she’d grown up watching. It didn’t stop her heart from hammering every time she caught movement in the corner of her eye. Shadows shifted along the walls, but no one ever stepped out—yet.

At an intersection, Vulcan stopped suddenly, his nose working overtime as he sniffed both paths. Ashley tensed. The air felt heavier here, like it was buzzing with unseen energy. Vulcan turned sharply to the right, his ears flicking as he growled low in his throat.

“Hold it,” Ashley hissed, reaching out to touch Vulcan’s back, her fingers brushing through his fur. He froze, muscles tight as he stared into the dimly lit corridor ahead. Ashley followed his gaze—and saw it.

A flicker of movement, too quick to be natural. Before she could even process it, a figure dropped silently from the ceiling, landing with a predatory grace. Ashley instinctively took a step back, raising her arm in front of Vulcan, but the figure didn’t move closer. Instead, the ninja straightened, gave her an almost playful smirk, and then vanished back into the shadows, his footsteps echoing faintly before fading altogether.

Ashley let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “Nope. No way. We’re not dealing with that,” she muttered under her breath, swiping at the sweat gathering on her brow.

Vulcan gave a low rumble in agreement before trotting down the opposite corridor, his nose leading the way. Ashley followed closely, her eyes darting from shadow to shadow, but the deeper they went, the more the maze seemed to twist around them. The walls felt closer now, the passages tighter, and the flickering torchlight made it impossible to tell what was real and what was illusion.

More than once, Ashley swore she saw flashes of movement—a streak of black cloth, the gleam of a kunai—but Vulcan never hesitated. His paws stayed sure, his nose never faltered, and he led her through narrow bends and sharp turns with the confidence of a Pokémon born to navigate chaos.

At one point, they passed a wooden dummy rigged with kunai traps, the blades still faintly trembling as though someone had triggered it seconds before they arrived. Ashley gave it a wide berth, whispering, “Not today, thanks.” Vulcan paused just long enough to growl at it before leading her onward.

The maze seemed endless—corridors looping back on themselves, walls that shifted slightly when she wasn’t looking—but Vulcan never doubted his path. Finally, after what felt like hours, Ashley saw the light.

The walls opened up abruptly, revealing a massive arena bathed in the warm glow of torches. The polished floor gleamed, almost too clean compared to the oppressive maze behind them. At the far end of the room, a raised platform loomed, shrouded in darkness. Ashley stepped forward cautiously, Vulcan pressing close to her leg.

Then—BOOM.

A cloud of purple smoke exploded from the platform, curling toward the ceiling as Ashley coughed and stumbled back. Vulcan barked, his hackles raised, but the smoke parted, revealing a figure in the center of the haze. Koga stood with his arms crossed, his expression sharp and unreadable, like he’d been carved from stone.

Ashley blinked rapidly as the smoke swirled around her feet. “Okay,” she said, her voice echoing slightly in the vast chamber. “Not gonna lie—that was pretty cool.”

Koga smirked, crossing his arms as the smoke faded. His sleek, dark ninja outfit blended perfectly with the shadows, and his sharp eyes locked onto Ashley like he could see straight through her. “Impressive,” he said, his voice smooth but carrying an edge of authority. “Few make it through the maze on their first attempt. Fewer still avoid every ambush. Your Growlithe’s senses must be as sharp as yours.”

Ashley straightened, brushing ash off her pants. “Well, I had Vulcan,” she replied, giving her Growlithe a quick scratch behind the ear. “He’s got a nose for trouble. And ninjas.”

Koga’s expression softened just slightly, though his eyes remained sharp. “A bond between trainer and Pokémon is a weapon stronger than any technique. But I must warn you—this battle will not be so simple.”

Ashley didn’t flinch. Instead, she set her feet firmly and crossed her arms, matching Koga’s confidence. “I wouldn’t want it to be.”

Koga’s lips twitched into the faintest of smiles before he gestured toward the field. “Tell me, challenger—how many badges do you have?”

Ashley reached into her bag, pulling out her Volcano Badge and holding it up with pride. “Just one so far, but it’s the Volcano Badge from Blaine.”

Koga’s eyes flickered with interest, and he nodded approvingly. “The Volcano Badge is not easily earned. Blaine does not hand out victories lightly.”

Ashley shrugged but couldn’t hide the pride in her voice. “We trained hard for it—and Blaine’s training stuck with us. We’re ready for whatever you’ve got.”

Koga straightened; his demeanor sharpened like a blade. “Then you will find that I do not disappoint. This will be a two-on-two match.”

Ashley’s fingers brushed against her Poké Balls, her mind already racing with strategies. Vulcan barked, clearly eager to get started.

“Ready when you are,” Ashley said, her voice steady despite the rush of adrenaline.

The battlefield remained thick with the fading haze of Koga’s smoke bomb as the first Poké Ball arced through the air, snapping open in a burst of light. Out of it came a sleek, menacing Golbat, his wings spread wide as he hovered high above the battlefield. His fangs gleamed under the flickering torchlight, and his high-pitched screech echoed off the walls as he flapped in place, already scanning the field like a predator circling prey.

Koga stood tall, arms folded inside his sleeves, his sharp eyes locked on Ashley. “This is Golbat,” he said, his voice calm but cutting. “He’s fast, precise, and silent when he needs to be. Let’s see how you handle him.”

Ashley didn’t flinch. Instead, she grinned, pulling out her own Poké Ball and tossing it forward with practiced ease. “Alright, Proserpina, let’s show them what we’ve got!”

The ball popped open, and Proserpina materialized in a soft glow, her petals rustling as she landed gracefully on the battlefield floor. Her wide eyes scanned Golbat with calm focus, and a faint hum escaped her as she tilted her head, already analyzing her opponent.

Ashley crouched slightly, pointing toward Golbat. “We’re playing this smart. Start with Sweet Scent!”

Proserpina swayed her leaves in a hypnotic rhythm, her petals trembling before releasing a shimmering pink mist that drifted upward like silk threads carried by the breeze. The aroma spread quickly, rich and intoxicating, layered with the sweetness of honey and undertones of ripe berries. It hung heavily in the air, wrapping the battlefield in an invisible haze. Golbat faltered mid-air, his wings stuttering as the alluring fragrance washed over him. His sharp, predatory eyes softened; the intense focus replaced with a glazed, dreamy look. His flight turned uneven, dipping dangerously close to the ground as he struggled to resist the scent’s pull.

Koga narrowed his gaze, his lips curling into a faint smirk. “Don’t get distracted, Golbat. Wing Attack!”

Golbat snapped his head up, his trance broken by Koga’s sharp command. With a guttural screech, he launched himself forward, wings slicing through the air like twin blades. The gusts they created kicked up dust as he barreled toward Proserpina, cutting through the haze of Sweet Scent with sheer determination.

“Sunny Day!” Ashley called out, her voice rising above the sudden roar of Golbat’s attack.

Proserpina lifted her head, her petals quivering before a radiant orb of light shot upward. It exploded high above them, releasing a cascade of golden rays that bathed the battlefield in dazzling brilliance. The light danced off the shimmering mist, refracting into prismatic glimmers. Golbat flinched mid-flight, his sensitive eyes squinting against the harsh glow. His wings clipped Proserpina’s side as he flew past, but the hit was off-center, more of a glancing blow than a decisive strike.

Ashley clenched her fist, eyes blazing. “Perfect! Now, Stun Spore!”

Proserpina spun gracefully, her leaves shaking as a golden cloud of powder burst outward. The spores glittered under the intensified sunlight, each speck catching the light like tiny stars. Golbat screeched, flapping wildly as he tried to evade the shimmering cloud, but the residual effects of Sweet Scent slowed his reflexes just enough. The spores clung to his wings and body, their paralyzing properties sinking in. His movements turned jagged and uneven, and he dipped lower, struggling to keep himself airborne as the paralysis began to take hold.

Koga’s eyes flashed, his calm demeanor cracking. “Golbat, fight through it! Air Cutter!”

Golbat steadied himself as best he could, forcing his wings to slice the air with renewed vigor. The gusts that followed formed sharp, crescent-shaped blades of wind that hurtled toward Proserpina.

“Growth, now!” Ashley shouted, urgency in her voice.

Proserpina planted her feet firmly, her leaves reaching toward the sunlight flooding the battlefield. They glowed a vibrant green, stretching outward as her form swelled slightly, absorbing energy from the light itself. The Air Cutter blades slammed into her, pushing her back a few steps, but she dug in, roots anchoring her as she withstood the attack. A determined glint shone in her eyes as the glow surrounding her intensified.

Ashley exhaled sharply, adrenaline buzzing in her veins. “Alright, girl, let’s finish this! Swift!”

Proserpina twirled, her petals releasing a volley of glowing stars that shot forward in rapid succession. They streaked through the air like comets, each one leaving a faint golden trail in its wake. The stars rained down on Golbat, slamming into him repeatedly. He flinched and screeched, wings flailing, but the paralysis locked his joints mid-flap. Gravity took hold, and he dropped to the battlefield floor, his body shuddering as he struggled to rise.

Koga clenched his jaw, barking out a final command. “Get up! Use Leech Life!”

Ashley leaned forward, voice sharp as a blade. “Not happening! Absorb!”

Proserpina’s leaves glowed once more, this time emitting soft, green tendrils of light that snaked out and wrapped around Golbat. The tendrils pulsed, draining the last remnants of Golbat’s strength and transferring it back to Proserpina. Golbat writhed against the energy pull, but his movements grew weaker with every passing second. Golbat’s struggle slowed, then stilled entirely. His wings sagged, and his eyes drifted closed.

Silence filled the battlefield before the ninja referee raised her arm. “Golbat is unable to battle! The victory goes to Ashley and Proserpina!”

Ashley pumped her fist, a wide grin breaking across her face as Proserpina swayed triumphantly. The sunlight glinted off her petals, and Ashley could already feel the thrill of the next challenge ahead.

Koga stood silently for a moment, then raised his hand and recalled Golbat into his Poké Ball with a quick flick of his wrist. “Well played,” he said, his voice calm but with a sharp undertone of respect. “You predicted my movements and countered effectively. But don’t celebrate just yet.”

Ashley straightened, brushing sweat from her brow but unable to keep the grin off her face. She glanced at Proserpina, who stood proudly despite the cuts and scuffs marking her leaves. “You were amazing,” Ashley said, crouching briefly to pat her gently. Proserpina hummed happily, already swaying in victory.

Koga drew his second Poké Ball, the faintest smirk tugging at his lips. “The first match was just the opening act,” he said, holding the ball aloft. “Let’s see how you handle the main event.”

Ashley stood, her grin was back, sharp and determined. “Bring it on.”

The tension in the battlefield, as smoke hissed from Koga’s sleeves as he released his next Pokémon in a flash of light. Venomoth materialized midair, her delicate, powdery wings catching the arena’s light as she hovered gracefully above the battlefield. Her compound eyes gleamed as she surveyed the field, her antennae twitching in anticipation.

Ashley’s heart skipped, but she quickly steadied herself. Venomoth wasn’t just a Bug-type—her Psychic abilities made her dangerous, and Ashley knew this wouldn’t be easy. Still, she squared her shoulders and glanced down at Proserpina, who was already stepping forward.

“Still up for it?” Ashley asked, crouching slightly to meet her Gloom’s determined gaze.

Proserpina hummed softly, her petals trembling as if itching for the next round. Ashley smirked. “That’s my girl.”

Koga’s voice was calm but commanding. “Confusion.”

Before Ashley could call out an order, Venomoth’s compound eyes gleamed with a piercing light. Psychic energy rippled outward in a shimmering, undulating pulse that distorted the air like heatwaves on a summer day. The wave struck Proserpina dead-on, and the Grass-type staggered back, her wide eyes swirling as the mental attack seized her mind and twisted her focus.

Ashley’s stomach dropped. “Proserpina, snap out of it! Focus!”

Proserpina swayed, her delicate petals trembling as she struggled against the disorienting haze clouding her senses. Her limbs moved sluggishly, as though she were pushing through deep water, and her balance faltered, nearly causing her to collapse.

“Quiver Dance.”

Ashley’s head snapped up. “Wait—what?”

Venomoth fluttered higher, her powdery wings glowing faintly as they began to move in a hypnotic rhythm. She spun in tight, mesmerizing circles, each rotation faster and more precise than the last. Sparkling powder flaked off her wings like glittering stardust, swirling around her in a radiant spiral. The light caught the dust, making it shimmer and pulse in time with her movement. Ashley clenched her fists. Quiver Dance was bad news—it wasn’t just a boost; it was a game-changer, enhancing Venomoth’s Speed, Special Attack, and Special Defense all at once. If Koga kept stacking boosts, this battle would end before Ashley had a chance to mount a real offense.

“Proserpina, use Sunny Day! Clear your head and blind her!”

Proserpina let out a shaky, warbling cry as she forced herself to focus. Her petals flared wide, catching the faint glimmers of light around her and amplifying them until a burst of golden sunlight erupted overhead. The battlefield was bathed in warm, blinding light, casting sharp shadows and intensifying the heat. Venomoth faltered, her hypnotic movements momentarily disrupted as the sudden brightness made it harder to keep her patterns precise. But Koga didn’t give Ashley time to capitalize.

“Air Slash.”

Venomoth dove, wings slicing downward with a force that compressed the air into a visible, razor-sharp arc. The shimmering blade of wind howled as it cut through the sunlight, striking Proserpina cleanly across the chest. She cried out as the impact sent her skidding backward, her legs scrambling for purchase on the dry earth. Ashley bit her lip. The hit was too clean—too sharp.

“Come on, Proserpina!” Ashley shouted. “You’ve got this! Stun Spore!”

Proserpina wobbled, her movements still shaky, but she managed to shake herself free of her confusion long enough to lower her head and release a golden cloud of paralyzing powder. The spores drifted lazily through the sunlight, catching the light and glowing like flecks of gold. But Koga was already a step ahead.

“Psybeam.”

Venomoth’s antennae pulsed, and a spiraling beam of multicolored energy tore through the air. The swirling light twisted violently as it carved through the cloud of spores, dispersing them in every direction before they could reach their target.

“Use Growth!” Ashley ordered.

Proserpina closed her eyes, drawing in the amplified sunlight. Her petals glowed as veins of golden energy spread across her body, making her bloom larger and more vibrant. Her form seemed to pulse with life, her attack power surging as she absorbed the warmth radiating from above. But Koga wasn’t about to let her gather momentum.

“Air Slash again.”

Venomoth dove once more, her wings slicing down to unleash another razor-sharp gust. The cutting wind howled as it tore through the air, striking Proserpina head-on and sending her reeling. Ashley’s heart clenched. She was running out of options. With Venomoth’s boosted stats, the fight felt overwhelmingly lopsided.

“Hang in there, Proserpina! Use Swift—scatter her!”

Golden stars erupted from Proserpina’s petals, streaking upward in dazzling arcs. The glowing projectiles shimmered as they filled the air, forcing Venomoth to twist and weave to avoid the barrage. Her movements were less fluid, her dodging hindered by the sheer volume of the attack.

Ashley saw her opening. “Absorb—now!”

Proserpina lunged forward, her tendrils glowing green as they latched onto Venomoth, drawing thin streams of energy back into her trembling form. Venomoth shuddered in midair, her wings fluttering erratically as the drain took hold. But she shook it off quickly, regaining her poise with frightening speed.

“Finish it. Psybeam.”

Ashley barely had time to react before the rainbow-colored beam streaked across the battlefield. It struck Proserpina dead-on, the force of the impact sending her sprawling. She let out one final, pained cry before collapsing onto the ground, motionless.

Ashley froze, her breath catching in her throat. Proserpina didn’t stir. The battle was over. Ashley swallowed hard and quickly recalled her Pokémon. “You did amazing, Proserpina,” she whispered, her fingers tightening around the Poké Ball.

Koga stood calmly, his Venomoth hovering confidently at his side. “A strong showing,” he said. “Your Gloom fought with determination, but your strategy relied too much on setups. Against a fast opponent, hesitation costs battles.”

Ashley didn’t let the words sting. “Don’t worry, Koga,” she said, her voice brimming with determination. “I’ve still got plenty of tricks left.”

Ashley’s fingers trembled slightly as she clipped Proserpina’s Poké Ball back onto her belt. Her heart was pounding, but she wasn’t about to back down—not when the battle was still wide open. She reached for her next Poké Ball, her grip tightening around it as her eyes locked onto Koga’s Venomoth, still hovering gracefully despite the hits it had taken.

“All right, Mars,” Ashley said, her voice steady as she threw the ball. “Let’s heat things up!”

In a flash of red light, Mars burst onto the field, landing with a sharp growl and swishing his tail, the flame at its tip flaring bright and steady. His claws flexed against the ground as he sized up Venomoth, his eyes burning with determination.

Koga’s expression didn’t falter. “You’re sending a Fire-type against me?”

Ashley smirked. “Not just any Fire-type. This one’s been training in a volcano.”

“Poison Powder,” Koga commanded calmly, his voice steady and precise.

Venomoth flared her wings wide and flapped hard, releasing a shimmering cloud of purple spores. The toxic particles glittered ominously as they billowed outward, spreading in waves that rippled through the air. Ashley’s breath caught. The cloud was expanding fast, and if even a trace of it reached Mars, he’d be in serious trouble.

“Burn it away! Let’s go, Mars—Fire Spin!” Ashley shouted, her voice cutting through the tension.

Mars wasted no time. With a deep inhale, the Charmander exhaled a spiraling vortex of fire that roared to life, twisting and crackling as it surged forward. The flames hungrily consumed the advancing spores, their heat making the toxins sizzle and pop as they disintegrated into harmless ash. The fiery spiral didn’t stop there—it twisted upward, creating a brief, blinding pillar of light that flickered against the rocky battlefield. Ashley allowed herself a breath of relief, but she wasn’t ready to celebrate yet.

Koga’s eyes narrowed slightly, his gaze sharp. “Impressive defense,” he admitted, his tone betraying no emotion. “But it won’t stop this—Confusion!”

Venomoth’s compound eyes flared with a pale blue glow, and waves of psychic energy rippled outward like invisible currents of force. The ground trembled slightly beneath their intensity as the attack barreled toward Mars.

Ashley gritted her teeth. “Smokescreen! Hide in the fog!”

Mars slammed his claws into the ground and spun, releasing a dense cloud of black smoke. The thick fog swallowed him instantly, creating an inky shroud that spread across the battlefield. The psychic waves sliced through the smoke, parting it in bursts, but Mars’s silhouette remained hidden. The smog churned uneasily, broken only by faint glimmers of light from the fire at the tip of his tail.

“Stay sharp, Mars,” Ashley called, her voice echoing faintly through the haze. “Now, Sunny Day!”

A sudden burst of light erupted from within the smoke, scattering the shadows as a golden glow washed over the battlefield. Mars’s silhouette emerged, his claws raised toward the sky, and the sunlight intensified in response. The battlefield brightened, shadows stretching long and sharp. Venomoth flinched, her wings twitching in protest at the sudden glare.

“Push through! Swift!”

Stars of light shot out from the smoke, glittering as they caught the sunlight. They streaked through the air like fireworks, their path direct and unerring. Venomoth tried to evade, fluttering high, but the stars homed in relentlessly. The shimmering projectiles struck her wings, forcing her lower as her flight faltered under the impact.

“Now! Fire Spin!”

Mars erupted from the remaining smoke like a fiery comet, flames swirling around him as he launched another spiraling inferno. The vortex engulfed Venomoth, and she let out a sharp cry, her movements erratic as the flames trapped her in place. The heat intensified under the blazing sunlight, distorting the air around her.

Ashley clenched her fists, her heart racing. “Yes! That’s how we do it, Mars!”

But Koga’s voice cut through the moment like a blade. “Solar Beam!”

Ashley froze. “Wait, what?!”

Venomoth, scorched and struggling, suddenly flared with energy. Her wings shimmered with an emerald glow, greedily absorbing the sunlight that poured down. The swirling flames around her weakened as she drew power from the light, her entire body vibrating with intensity. Ashley’s eyes widened. There was no charge time—not in this sunlight.

In the blink of an eye, Venomoth fired. A massive, glowing beam of green energy exploded outward, cutting through the battlefield like a lance. It slammed into Mars with bone-jarring force.

Mars yelped in pain, the impact hurling him backward. He skidded across the rocky terrain, stones scattering in his wake. Ashley’s stomach twisted as she watched him struggle to rise. His limbs shook, and his breathing was ragged, but then his tail flame flared—strong and steady.

Ashley exhaled slowly, her eyes locked on her partner. “You’ve got this, Mars. We’re not done yet.”

Mars let out a deep, guttural growl that reverberated across the battlefield. His body began to glow, light consuming him as the shape of his frame shifted and grew. Ashley’s breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening as the brilliance intensified.

“No way,” she whispered, stepping back as the light flared one final time before shattering outward.

When the glow dissipated, Mars stood taller and more imposing. His limbs were stronger, his claws sharper, and his tail flame flared like a roaring bonfire. The air around him seemed to shimmer with heat, radiating his newfound strength.

“Charmeleon!” Mars roared, baring his teeth and slashing the air with his glowing claws.

Ashley’s shock melted into awe, and then pride. “You’re incredible, Mars!” she called, her voice ringing with excitement.

Across the battlefield, Koga’s eyes narrowed, his expression sharp and calculating. “An evolution mid-battle… interesting,” he murmured, crossing his arms. “But evolution won’t save you.”

Ashley wasn’t listening. She could see it—the determination burning in Mars’s eyes, the fire in his heart ignited to its fullest. He was ready for more. So was she.

Before Ashley could issue her next command, Mars’s claws began to glow with a faint blue aura. Ashley blinked in surprise, her mind racing. That wasn’t one of his usual moves. What was he—?

Suddenly, the aura intensified, swirling and crackling as his entire body became enveloped in dragon energy. Ashley’s jaw dropped as she realized what was happening.

“Mars, that’s—” But the words caught in her throat. She hadn’t taught him this move.

Mars let out a defiant roar and crouched low, his tail flame surging. Then, with a powerful push, he shot forward like a blazing comet, leaving a trail of blue energy in his wake.

“Dragon Rush!” Ashley gasped, her surprise quickly giving way to exhilaration. It was an egg move—one they hadn’t even known he possessed—and it had awakened with his evolution.

Venomoth’s wings fluttered as she tried to take to the air, her movements quick but frantic. Mars, however, was faster. The dragon energy crackled and roared around him as he closed the distance in a flash.

The impact was like a thunderclap, the force sending Venomoth spiraling backward through the air before she hit the ground hard, skidding to a stop in a cloud of dust and debris. Ashley held her breath as the dust began to settle.

Venomoth lay still, her wings twitching faintly before going limp.

The ninja referee stepped forward, raising her hand. “Venomoth is unable to battle! The winner is Charmeleon!”

Ashley’s heart pounded as the declaration rang out. She stared at Mars, who stood tall, his claws still glowing faintly as the remnants of the dragon energy dissipated. He turned his head back toward her, his eyes gleaming with triumph.

“You’re amazing, Mars. Absolutely amazing.” Ashley let out a cry of victory, throwing her arms in the air as Mars stood tall, his tail blazing like a beacon. Mars let out a low, confident growl, the fire in his tail burning brighter than ever.

Koga recalled Venomoth, his expression unreadable. Then, after a long moment, he stepped forward and gave a slow nod.

“You fought with skill and heart,” he said, his voice calm. “And you adapted when it mattered most. That is the mark of a true ninja… and a worthy challenger. For demonstrating adaptability, precision, and strategy in the heat of battle,” Koga said, his voice steady but tinged with respect, “I award you the Soul Badge.”

Ashley’s hands flew to her mouth, and for just a moment, she froze, stunned. Then she quickly stepped forward and took the badge with both hands, holding it as if it were the most delicate treasure in the world. “Thank you,” she breathed, bowing slightly out of instinct. Her words spilled out before she could stop them. “I mean—thank you so much! This… this really means a lot.”

Koga nodded. “It is well-earned. But your journey does not end here.” He reached into his sleeve again and produced a small disc—a Technical Machine, its surface a glossy silver-purple. He flipped it between his fingers before handing it over. “Take this as well. TM—Toxic. It is not a move of brute strength, but one of patience and calculation. Use it wisely.”

Ashley turned the TM over in her hands, the weight of it sinking in as Mars leaned closer to inspect it, sniffing at it curiously before huffing and sitting back down. Ashley laughed softly. “Don’t worry, bud. This one’s not for you.”

Koga folded his arms, watching her carefully. “Many trainers underestimate status moves, focusing only on raw power. But a battle is not won by strength alone. Poison wears down even the strongest foe—just as patience can outlast recklessness.” He raised a brow. “You showed patience today. But I expect you’ll continue to refine that skill as you grow.”

Ashley straightened, her grip tightening on the badge and TM. “I will,” she said firmly. “You can count on that.”

“See that I can,” Koga replied, his tone low but carrying a distinct note of approval.

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, the city lights glinting off the Soul Badge in her hand, Ashley couldn’t help but grin. Two badges down, six to go. And if today had proven anything, it was that she and her team were more than ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Ashley walked alongside Koga down the dimly lit streets of Fuchsia City, the soft glow of the streetlights bouncing off the polished surface of her new Soul Badge. Mars padded beside her, his steps light but energetic, his tail flame flickering brightly in the fading evening light. He was still riding the height of his evolution, occasionally puffing out a small ember just because he could. Ashley gave him an affectionate nudge with her knee, earning a smug growl from her newly-evolved Charmeleon.

Koga walked with practiced ease, hands folded behind his back, his stride steady and deliberate, like someone who was always aware of his surroundings. Ashley glanced sideways at him, still holding the Toxic TM tightly in her hand as she debated how to start the conversation bubbling in her head. She opened her mouth, hesitated, then exhaled through her nose and just went for it.

“So, uh, Koga,” she began, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear, “about Poison-types…”

Koga didn’t slow his pace, but his eyes flicked toward her, sharp even in the dim light. “Yes?”

Ashley bit her lip, suddenly feeling a little self-conscious, but Mars’s encouraging growl gave her the boost she needed. “I’m not exactly… good with them,” she admitted, waving the Toxic TM like it explained everything. “I mean, I get the basics—status moves, long-term strategies—but I’ve mostly trained Fire- and Water-types so far. Even my Gloom, Proserpina, I’ve been focusing on her Grass-type moves. I don’t want to fail her by skipping out on the Poison side of things, but I just—I don’t know where to start.”

Koga’s steps slowed, and he turned to face her, his gaze steady but not unkind. “Acknowledging a weakness is the first step to overcoming it,” he said, his voice low but carrying a weight that made Ashley stand up a little straighter. “Your Gloom has potential. I could see it in your battle earlier. But power without control leads to recklessness.”

Ashley nodded quickly. “Exactly! I want to give her more control. Proserpina’s already tanky, and I know she’s great at status effects, but she needs more precision. More finesse.”

Koga raised a brow, clearly intrigued by her focus. “And you believe Poison techniques will give her that?”

“I do,” Ashley said without hesitation, then faltered, her enthusiasm dipping just slightly. “I mean… if I can teach her right.”

Koga’s lips quirked into the faintest hint of a smile. “It is rare for a trainer to recognize the subtleties of Poison-types so early. Most dismiss them as underhanded, reliant on cheap tricks. But Poison is an art form—one that demands patience and discipline.”

Ashley blinked. “Wow, I feel like I just signed up for a philosophy lecture.”

Koga smirked. “Then prepare to take notes.”

They reached the Pokémon Center just as he said it, the glass doors sliding open with a quiet hiss. The warm, sterile glow of the interior made Ashley realize just how much dirt and ash still clung to her sleeves and boots, remnants of her battle with Koga. Nurse Joy looked up from the counter and greeted them with her usual bright smile, but Ashley caught the flicker of recognition in her eyes as she spotted Koga.

“Good evening, Koga! I see Ashley here gave you a run for your money,” Nurse Joy said cheerfully, taking Mars’s Poké Ball and Koga’s from his hands.

Ashley coughed, rubbing the back of her neck. “Uh, well, it was close,” she admitted, shooting Mars a glance. The Charmeleon puffed out his chest proudly, as if daring anyone to disagree.

Koga inclined his head respectfully. “It was an impressive match. One worthy of recognition.”

Ashley tried not to let her grin take over her whole face. “Thanks!” She handed over Proserpina’s Poké Ball as well before turning back to Koga. “So… about that training…”

“Let’s sit down to talk, while we wait,” Koga offered with a kind smile.

Ashley beamed and moved to sit in a chair at the Pokémon Center’s lounge, her legs stretched out as she balanced a notebook on her knee and tapped the end of her pen against her chin. Across from her, Koga sat with the same unnerving stillness he carried everywhere, like he was a shadow waiting to move.

“So,” Ashley started, flipping a page in her notebook and looking at Koga expectantly, “perfect Vileplume—where do we even begin?”

Koga studied her for a moment, as if measuring her enthusiasm against the weight of what she was asking. “We begin,” he said, leaning forward slightly, “by understanding what a Vileplume is.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow. “A Grass- and Poison-type tank with massive petals and enough pollen to knock out a Tauros?”

Koga smirked faintly. “Simplistic, but not inaccurate.” He steepled his fingers. “Vileplume is a master of attrition. It does not win battles through brute force but through control. Status effects, terrain manipulation, and endurance—it dominates by making every move its opponent takes a costly one.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up as she scribbled furiously, nodding along. “Okay, so—slow, steady, and suffocating.”

“Poison is not suffocation,” Koga corrected gently. “It is erosion. It wears down its target, exploiting weaknesses until nothing remains. That is what Proserpina must embody.”

Ashley paused, tapping the pen against the notebook before looking up. “But Gloom’s not exactly slow. She’s not fast like Vulcan, but she’s spry. Won’t she lose that when she evolves?”

“Somewhat,” Koga admitted, “but evolution is not merely growth—it is refinement. You are not losing speed. You are gaining durability, power, and the ability to force your opponent’s hand.” He leaned back, arms crossing. “Proserpina will need to learn how to control space, not just react to it. Moves like Stun Spore and Sleep Powder are tools, but they must be wielded with precision, not desperation.”

Ashley scribbled down his words, biting her lip. “So, no panicking and just spamming powders. Got it.”

Koga’s lips twitched. “Correct.” He reached out and tapped Proserpina’s Poké Ball lightly. “And the key to making those powders effective? Fear.”

Ashley blinked. “Fear?”

“Proserpina’s strength will be psychological as much as physical,” Koga explained. “When her opponent knows one misstep could mean paralysis or sleep, they will hesitate. They will falter. And hesitation is an opening.”

Ashley sat back, impressed and maybe just a little intimidated. “Man, you make this sound way cooler than it has any right to be,” she said, grinning. “You’re sure you’re not secretly a Dark-type specialist?”

Koga allowed the tiniest chuckle. “Poison and darkness are not so different.”

“Noted,” Ashley muttered, writing that down too. Then her pen stilled as another thought struck her. “What about her Grass-type moves? You’re focusing a lot on the Poison side, but I don’t want to lose the utility Grass moves bring.”

“Nor should you,” Koga said, nodding approvingly. “Grass provides recovery, sustainability. Moves like Absorb, Giga Drain, and Leech Seed will allow Proserpina to outlast opponents while chipping away at their stamina. It complements her Poison strategies perfectly—offense and defense working as one.”

Ashley whistled, shaking her head. “Man, I thought Fire-types were complicated. This is like playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers.”

“Poison requires patience,” Koga said simply. “But for those who master it, it is unmatched.”

Ashley grinned. “Then let’s make Proserpina unmatched.”

Nurse Joy’s voice interrupted them, calling Ashley to the counter. She quickly gathered up her notebook and jogged over, returning with her Poké Balls in hand. Ashley released Proserpina, who blinked up at her sleepily before looking around and spotting Koga.

“Alright, girl,” Ashley said, crouching down and gently patting her Gloom’s petals. “We’re gonna turn you into the best Vileplume this side of Kanto. You ready?”

Proserpina let out a chirping hum and swayed slightly, already looking more confident just hearing Ashley’s words.

Koga rose, his gaze sharp as ever. “We’ll begin at sunrise,” he said. “Your Gloom is capable, but potential means nothing without refinement.”

Ashley straightened and saluted dramatically. “Yes, sensei.”

Proserpina gave what almost sounded like a giggle. Koga, for his part, didn’t even blink.

“Get some rest,” he said, already turning toward the door. “You’ll need it.”

Ashley watched him go, her grin growing as she turned back to Proserpina. “You hear that? He thinks you’re capable. And you know what? So do I.”

Proserpina puffed up slightly, her leaves twitching with pride.

“Tomorrow,” Ashley said, scooping her Pokémon up into her arms and earning a startled squeak, “we start turning you into the queen of status effects. Venus better watch out because you’re about to give ‘cute’ a run for its money.”

Proserpina hummed in Ashley’s arms, already leaning into her trainer’s warmth, and Ashley couldn’t help but smile.

Tomorrow couldn’t come fast enough.

When night fell, Ashley found herself shifting under the covers of her bed, the soft hum of the Pokémon Center’s nightlights casting a dim glow across the room. Mars lay sprawled beside her, his newly evolved Charmeleon form taking up way more space than he used to as a Charmander. His tail flame flickered lazily, the light dancing on the walls in waves of orange and gold. Ashley smiled, reaching out to run her fingers along the rougher scales on his arm. They were tougher than before—stronger—but still warm. Always warm.

“You know,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper, “I was kind of worried something might change after you evolved.”

Mars cracked one eye open, his tail flicking slightly as if to ask what?

“This.” Ashley gestured vaguely at him with her free hand. “The whole evolution thing. I’ve heard stories—trainers whose Charmanders evolve and then suddenly decide they’re too cool to listen anymore.” She paused, brushing her thumb over one of the sharper ridges along his elbow. “Not you, though. You’re still my Mars.”

Mars huffed, the sound somewhere between an exhale and a low rumble, and shifted closer, resting his head against her arm like he was trying to make his point without words.

Ashley grinned, but her voice softened. “You don’t know how relieved I am about that.”

Mars let out a grunt, rolling onto his back and stretching, claws flexing in the air as if to show off. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh, pressing a palm against his stomach before he could get any ideas about clawing up the blankets.

“Yeah, yeah, I get it. You’re bigger now—stronger. But don’t think I didn’t notice that Solar Beam almost knocked you out earlier,” she teased, poking his side lightly. “You’re not invincible yet, hotshot.”

Mars snorted, clearly offended, and shifted back onto his stomach with a flick of his tail. His eyes narrowed in what Ashley immediately recognized as his “I dare you to repeat that” look. She raised her hands in mock surrender.

“Hey, I’m just saying! You’re still my number one, but we’ve got work to do if you’re gonna live up to that whole ‘God of War’ thing we’ve got going on.”

Mars seemed to consider that, his eyes flickering with something more serious before he finally grumbled and settled down again. Ashley smiled, rubbing the spot between his horns until he leaned into it.

“I mean it, though,” she murmured. “I feel lucky. I’ve seen trainers crying their eyes out because their Charmeleons suddenly got moody or wouldn’t listen anymore. I guess you’re just too stubborn to stop trusting me, huh?”

Mars gave her a sidelong glance, then licked her hand in response, making her yelp.

“Gross!” Ashley wiped her hand against the blanket, laughing as Mars rumbled in amusement. “You better not make that a habit, or I’m sending you back to your Poké Ball.”

Mars clearly didn’t believe her, judging by the smug flick of his tail, but Ashley just shook her head and leaned back against the pillows, her arm resting lightly over his shoulders.

The room fell quiet for a while after that, save for the faint hum of machinery and the soft crackle of Mars’s flame. Ashley let her thoughts drift, staring at the ceiling as she tried to picture what the next step in their journey might be like. She had two badges and one ribbon now—a solid start—and a full team that was shaping up faster than she could’ve expected.

Her hand drifted down to Mars’s scales again, tracing idle patterns along his shoulder. He didn’t flinch away or grumble this time, just stayed close, his breathing slow and steady.

“Tomorrow’s gonna be busy,” she said quietly, more to herself than to him. “Training with Koga, getting Proserpina ready to evolve… and I still need to figure out Venus’s path.” Her eyes flicked toward the Poké Balls lined up on her nightstand. “You’re all growing so fast. I’m barely keeping up.”

Mars let out a low, comforting rumble, and Ashley smiled. “I guess that’s a good thing, though. I mean, I’d rather be running to keep up than standing still.”

Mars made a soft sound of agreement, but Ashley could feel his breathing slowing. He was already half-asleep, his tail flame steady and calm. She let out a breath of her own, closing her eyes as she let herself relax for the first time all day.

“Goodnight, Mars,” she murmured. “We’re just getting started.”

The Charmeleon didn’t respond, but his tail flame flared slightly, almost like it was answering for him. Ashley smiled at that before sleep finally pulled her under, surrounded by the soft warmth of her oldest partner.

Chapter Text

Ashley stood at the edge of the Fuchsia City Gym’s training grounds, the cool morning air tingling against her skin as the first rays of sunlight pierced through the treetops. She shifted on her feet, the faint rustle of fabric catching her attention. She still couldn’t get over how awesome the ninja outfit felt—sleek, flexible, and surprisingly comfortable. The deep purple fabric clung snugly without restricting her movements, and the dark sash tied at her waist made her feel like she belonged in one of those old martial arts movies.

She tugged at the fingerless gloves Koga had handed her earlier, flexing her fingers to test the grip. Not bad. The soft fabric moved with her, perfect for scaling walls or—hopefully not—throwing kunai. She grinned at the thought.

Proserpina stood beside her, swaying slightly as if mirroring the motion of the grass around her. The Gloom tilted her head up at Ashley, despite her usual droopy appearance, Proserpina looked alert, her petals twitching as she caught faint scents carried by the breeze.

“Look at you,” Ashley teased, crouching down to give Proserpina a light pat on the head. “Already getting into the ninja mindset. You’re gonna rock this.”

Koga’s voice cut through the morning calm, sharp but calm. “Compliments won’t get her far. Training will.”

Ashley flinched and shot upright, turning to see Koga approaching with his arms folded behind his back. He was already dressed in full ninja garb—his outfit blending perfectly with the shadows cast by the Gym’s high walls and surrounding trees. His movements were nearly soundless, and Ashley briefly wondered if he’d just materialized out of nowhere.

“Right,” she said, straightening her back and giving a mock salute. “Ready when you are, sensei.”

Koga arched an eyebrow but smirked faintly. “We’ll see how ready you are soon enough.” He stepped closer, inspecting Proserpina with a critical eye before gesturing for Ashley to follow him toward the center of the training ground.

Ashley exchanged a quick glance with Proserpina and followed her steps quietly against the packed dirt. She couldn’t help but notice how the training area had transformed since yesterday. Bamboo poles lined one side, a rope net hung from another, and several large logs sat stacked in a corner. On the far end, a shallow pit filled with sand and stones suggested some kind of agility course—or a very unpleasant obstacle course.

“So,” Ashley said, looking around. “We’re... not just focusing on Pokémon moves?”

Koga turned slightly, his sharp eyes glinting in the morning light. “Training a Poison-type Pokémon requires more than brute strength. You need precision. Control. Adaptability.” He stopped in front of the rope net and tapped the edge with his foot. “This training will sharpen both your mind and your body. Proserpina must learn to harness the subtlety of toxins, and you must learn to think like a Poison-type trainer—patient, calculating, and resourceful.”

Ashley nodded, her grin widening despite the weight of his words. “Got it. Stealth, strategy, and poison. Like a ninja.”

Koga’s smirk returned. “Exactly.” He motioned toward a small rack of weighted training kunai. “You’ll also need to understand timing. We’ll start there.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up, but Proserpina let out a low hum, clearly less thrilled by the idea of weapon practice. Ashley knelt down and scratched behind Proserpina’s leaves.

“Don’t worry,” she whispered. “You’re the star here. I’m just your backup.”

The Gloom let out a soft chirp, her petals puffing slightly as she straightened.

Koga observed the interaction but said nothing. Instead, he held out a kunai to Ashley, his expression sharp. “Catch.”

Ashley’s hand shot out instinctively, and she snatched the kunai by the handle before blinking at it in surprise. “Oh. Hey, not bad.”

“Not bad,” Koga echoed, though his tone carried a hint of amusement. “But not good enough, either.”

Ashley rolled her eyes but smiled, feeling the weight of the kunai in her hand. It wasn’t just about looking cool; she could already tell balance and precision were going to be key. She turned it over, her fingers tracing the smooth edge before glancing up at Koga.

“So... what about Proserpina?”

Koga crossed his arms, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “Proserpina will learn to control her toxins—to use them as weapons without wasting energy. She’ll train in accuracy and timing, just like you. But for now, we’ll start with the basics—understanding how to control her powders and status moves.”

Ashley gave Proserpina a thumbs-up. “You hear that? You’re getting ninja training, too.”

Proserpina swayed her leaves confidently, though Ashley could’ve sworn the Gloom looked just a little smug.

“First,” Koga said, stepping toward the sand pit, “we’ll test her ability to spread her spores efficiently. The wind, terrain, and distance will all play a role.” He gestured toward a row of target dummies lined up on the opposite end of the pit. “The goal is precision. She’ll need to hit only the targets I specify, and nothing else.”

Ashley blinked, her excitement building. “Alright, Proserpina. Looks like we’re kicking this off ninja-style.” She pointed toward the targets, her voice steady. “Let’s make them regret ever underestimating a Gloom.”

Koga’s faint smirk returned as he folded his arms, watching them closely. “We’ll see.”

Ashley turned back toward Proserpina and grinned. “Ready?”

Proserpina chirped, her petals trembling slightly as the sunlight glinted off them.

Ashley crouched beside Proserpina, her fingers brushing the Gloom’s petals as if to ground them both before the training officially began. “Alright, girl. You heard him—precision is the name of the game.” She pointed toward the first target dummy, a faded wooden figure wrapped in straw and patched-up cloth. “Let’s start with Stun Spore. Just the left one. We need pinpoint accuracy.”

Proserpina hummed softly, swaying her leaves as if rolling her shoulders before a battle. She planted her stubby feet into the sand and closed her eyes, focusing. Ashley felt her own breath hitch as golden spores began to shimmer from Proserpina’s petals.

“Easy,” Ashley said softly, her voice low but steady. “Aim... now!”

Proserpina whipped her head to the left, releasing a concentrated puff of golden mist. The spores floated lazily at first, then swirled in the breeze, homing in on the target. For a split second, Ashley thought they’d missed—until the spores clung to the dummy’s straw arms, coating them in a glittering haze.

“Yes!” Ashley pumped her fist, but Koga’s voice cut through her excitement.

“Don’t celebrate yet.” He stepped closer, his eyes sharp as he examined the target. “Effective, but notice the spread.” He gestured toward the faint trail of spores that had drifted off to the right, catching the edge of another dummy. “Sloppy. You wasted energy and risked catching unintended targets.”

Ashley frowned, rubbing the back of her neck. “Alright, alright. We’ll tighten it up.” She knelt beside Proserpina, lowering her voice. “Okay, girl, let’s try again, but this time, control the release. No cloud bursts—short, quick sprays.”

Proserpina nodded—well, swayed—and turned back to the targets. This time, her petals quivered for just a second before releasing a short, focused puff of golden spores that hit the center dummy dead-on, leaving the others untouched.

“Better,” Koga said, his tone neutral, but Ashley caught the slight lift of his brow. She knew that was ninja-speak for impressed.

They ran the drill several more times, switching between Sleep Powder and Poison Powder. The Sleep Powder created a soft, shimmering mist that settled gently like snowfall, while the Poison Powder hit the targets in sharp bursts, the purple haze swirling aggressively before clinging to the dummies like smoke.

By the time Koga raised his hand to call a halt, Proserpina was panting softly, her petals drooping slightly, but Ashley could see the improvement. Her attacks were tighter, faster, and more precise.

Ashley crouched down, giving Proserpina a gentle pat. “You crushed it, Prose. Take five.” She pulled out a bottle of water, misting the Gloom lightly before offering her a sip. Proserpina leaned into the water bottle gratefully, letting out a happy chirp.

Koga cleared his throat, drawing Ashley’s attention. “You’re adapting quickly,” he said, his gaze fixed on Proserpina. “But precision is only part of the skill set. Control also means knowing when not to attack.”

Ashley tilted her head. “Meaning…?”

Without answering, Koga tossed something small and dark into the air. Before Ashley could react, it exploded in a puff of smoke, obscuring their view of the targets completely.

Ashley coughed, waving her hand in front of her face. “Okay, what was that for?!”

Koga’s voice came calmly through the haze. “Battlefields aren’t perfect. Smoke, wind, distractions—everything works against you. Proserpina needs to be able to release spores in unpredictable conditions and hit targets she can’t always see.”

Ashley bit her lip, glancing at Proserpina, who was shifting nervously. “You hear that? Looks like we’re leveling up already.”

Proserpina puffed out her chest—or the leafy equivalent of a chest—and chirped determinedly.

“Good,” Koga said, stepping back into view as the smoke cleared. “We’ll focus on blind targeting next. Proserpina’s instincts will sharpen the more you push her.”

Ashley grinned, rising to her feet as she tossed the kunai Koga had given her earlier, flipping it in her hand before pointing it toward the targets. “Alright, Prose—ready to train like a real ninja?”

Proserpina let out a sharp cry, her petals flaring as if ready for battle.

Koga smirked. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

The drills that followed were tougher. Koga introduced moving targets, forcing Proserpina to adjust her timing as dummies swung unpredictably. He added obstacles—ropes, wooden beams, and hanging cloths that disrupted visibility—and even had Ashley toss smoke bombs into the mix, creating clouds Proserpina had to work around.

Each drill left Proserpina stronger and sharper. By the end of the day she was exhausted, but she could pinpoint targets through the smoke with near-perfect accuracy, adjusting her aim even as the air shifted.

Ashley wiped her brow, crouching beside her exhausted but triumphant partner. “You’re unstoppable,” she whispered, brushing Proserpina’s petals with pride.

Koga stepped forward again, his gaze sharp but approving. “You’ve proven yourself—and so has she. Keep pushing her limits. With enough discipline, Proserpina will be worthy of her evolution.”

Ashley smiled, her fingers brushing the Leaf Stone tucked in her pouch. “Soon,” she promised softly, looking down at Proserpina, who swayed contentedly beside her. “But not yet.”

Koga gave a nod and turned, his robes swirling as he walked toward the exit. “Rest up. Tomorrow, we’ll move into advanced tactics.”

Ashley groaned but smiled as she stood, rolling her shoulders. “Guess we’re not done yet, huh?”

Ashley left the gym that evening with sore muscles and a head full of strategies, but her steps were light as she made her way toward the Pokémon Center. The cool evening air was a welcome relief after the heat of training, and Proserpina waddled beside her, swaying slightly but humming contentedly despite her exhaustion.

“You were amazing today,” Ashley said, crouching down to rub Proserpina’s petals. “Seriously, all that precision work? You’re going to make Koga eat his words when you evolve.”

Proserpina chirped and leaned into her trainer’s touch, her leaves rustling softly.

Ashley straightened up and pushed open the doors to the Pokémon Center, the familiar jingle welcoming her as she stepped inside. Nurse Joy glanced up from the counter and smiled warmly.

“Rough training session?” she asked, eyeing Ashley’s slightly disheveled hair and the bits of dirt clinging to her ninja outfit.

“You could say that.” Ashley gave a sheepish laugh and unclipped Proserpina’s Poké Ball, handing it over. “Proserpina really pushed herself today. Can you make sure she’s ready for round two tomorrow?”

Nurse Joy nodded, already calling out Chansey to assist as she placed Proserpina’s ball on the healing machine. “Of course. She’ll be good as new by morning. And you should get some rest too—you look like you need it.”

Ashley smiled. “Believe me, I plan to.”

After thanking Nurse Joy, she headed to her room upstairs, tossing her ninja gear onto a chair before collapsing onto the bed with a groan. Vulcan, who had been resting in his Poké Ball all day, immediately popped out and jumped up next to her, letting out a low bark as he curled up against her side.

“Yeah, yeah, I missed you too,” Ashley murmured, burying her fingers in his thick fur. Within minutes, she was out cold, the day’s training finally catching up to her.

Ashley woke up before her alarm, the first rays of sunrise streaming through the window. She stretched, wincing slightly at the soreness still clinging to her muscles, but the excitement buzzing in her chest drowned out any thoughts of hitting snooze.

“Alright,” she said, sitting up and rubbing the sleep from her eyes. “Day two. Let’s do this.”

After a quick shower and a rushed breakfast, Ashley collected her Pokémon from Nurse Joy, who assured her that everyone was in top condition. Proserpina’s Poké Ball was still warm from the machine, and Ashley grinned as she clipped it back onto her belt.

But today, she wasn’t coming alone.

Ashley stepped outside and released her entire team—Mars the Charmeleon, Vulcan the Growlithe, Neptune the Lapras, Apollo the Dratini, Venus the Eevee, and, of course, Proserpina. They stretched and yawned, still waking up, but their eyes brightened as they saw the determination in Ashley’s stance.

“Alright, everyone. Today’s going to be tough, but we’re here to learn and get stronger—together.” She crouched down, meeting their eyes one by one. “We’re not just a team anymore. We’re a unit. And we’re going to train like one.”

Mars let out a low growl, his tail flame flaring higher in anticipation. Vulcan barked, his tail wagging furiously. Venus bounced on her paws, her ears twitching, while Neptune gave a calm trill that sent ripples through the puddle left behind by his earlier hydration. Proserpina swayed proudly, and Apollo curled around Ashley’s arm, looking ready for anything.

“Good,” Ashley said, grinning. “Let’s move out.”

By the time she reached the gym, the morning sun was high enough to warm the dirt underfoot. Koga was already waiting in the training yard, his arms crossed as he observed their arrival.

“You’re late,” he said, though the corner of his mouth twitched upward in what might have been approval.

Ashley bit back a retort, straightening up and meeting his eyes. “Or maybe we’re just dramatically on time.”

Koga gave her a dry look but gestured for her team to spread out. “Let’s see if yesterday’s lessons stuck.”

Ashley stood tall, her Pokémon quickly pairing up as Koga barked out instructions.

“Listen up!” Koga’s sharp voice cut through the air, snapping everyone’s attention toward him. Even Vulcan, who had been sniffing at the edges of the sandpit, sat straight with his ears perked. Koga’s gaze swept over the group, lingering on each Pokémon before he turned back to Ashley.

“The move Toxic isn’t just an attack. It’s a weapon. A technique. A promise.” He extended his arm dramatically, the sleeve of his ninja garb fluttering slightly. “When you use it, you’re telling your opponent they’re on borrowed time.”

Ashley smirked. “No pressure, right?”

Koga’s lips twitched, but he kept going. “Toxic is about control, patience, and precision. It’s not flashy, but it’s devastating. If your Pokémon use it correctly, they can wear down even the strongest opponent. But—” He raised a finger, his sharp eyes locking on Ashley. “It’s only as effective as the user’s ability to read the battlefield. Poor timing? Missed opportunity? Then you’ve wasted a move and given your opponent an opening. And we don’t do openings.”

Ashley nodded, feeling a familiar spark of determination light up inside her. She glanced at her team—her Pantheon—who were all watching her intently. Mars stood with his claws flexing, his tail flame burning brightly. Vulcan sat beside him, tail wagging slowly but focused, while Proserpina swayed slightly as though already absorbing every word. Apollo coiled lightly on the ground, his scales catching the light, and Neptune rested calmly nearby, exuding quiet confidence. Venus sat prettily by Ashley’s feet, her large brown eyes glinting with curiosity.

“Alright, team,” Ashley said, clapping her hands. “Let’s do this. Toxic training starts now.”

She turned to Koga, who nodded and gestured to the field, where wooden dummies shaped like different Pokémon were set up at various distances. Some were close enough to touch, others far enough to test range and accuracy.

“Proserpina goes first,” Koga instructed. “Let her set the standard.”

Ashley crouched beside her Gloom, resting a reassuring hand on her leaves. “You ready for this, Proserpina? You’re leading the charge.”

Proserpina hummed softly before stepping forward, her petals trembling with energy.

Koga’s voice cut through the moment. “Focus her energy. Toxic isn’t just an attack—it’s venom concentrated into its deadliest form. She needs to visualize it, pull the toxins from within, and deliver them in a way that’s deliberate. No scattering, no guesswork.”

Ashley nodded, then looked at Proserpina. “You hear that? Picture it like a poison arrow—sharp, fast, and straight to the point. You got this.”

Proserpina’s eyes narrowed as she inhaled deeply. Her petals glistened faintly as a sickly purple glow began to radiate from her leaves. Ashley held her breath as the energy built, swirling until Proserpina suddenly flung her head forward. A concentrated glob of purple liquid shot out, hitting the dummy dead center.

“Yes!” Ashley pumped her fist, but Koga immediately cut in.

Koga’s sharp tone sliced through Ashley’s celebration like a kunai through paper. “No. Not yet.” He stepped forward, his eyes fixed on Proserpina as the Gloom wobbled slightly, her petals still faintly glowing from the attack.

Ashley blinked, lowering her fist. “What? That was a direct hit!”

Koga shook his head. “It was a hit, but Toxic isn’t about accuracy—it’s about intent.” He crouched down, his voice quieter now but no less intense. “Toxic is a move that gets under your opponent’s skin—literally. It builds, layer by layer, becoming more dangerous the longer it lingers. That wasn’t venom—it was spit.”

Proserpina let out a small hum of protest, her leaves drooping slightly, but Ashley immediately knelt beside her. “Hey, don’t listen to him—well, actually, do listen to him, but don’t take it personally.” She gave her partner’s petals a quick, reassuring rub before turning back to Koga. “Okay, sensei, how do we fix it?”

Koga gave a slight nod of approval at her attitude before standing and gesturing to the training dummy again. “She needs to focus. Poison-type moves are about more than physical effort—they require control. Proserpina must direct her toxins, not release them blindly.” He glanced down at the Gloom. “Picture it pooling—like venom collecting in fangs—until it’s ready to strike.”

Ashley mirrored Koga’s stance, kneeling again and placing her hand gently on Proserpina’s petals. “You hear that? Focus it—like it’s bubbling under the surface, waiting to burst out. But not yet. Not until you’re ready.”

Proserpina’s leaves twitched as if understanding. She closed her eyes, swaying lightly as her body seemed to gather itself. A faint, purple mist began to rise around her, swirling at her feet. Ashley’s pulse quickened.

“That’s it,” Koga said quietly. “Now channel it.”

Proserpina opened her eyes, sharp and determined this time. She inhaled deeply, her petals trembling as the mist thickened, becoming denser and darker. Ashley could feel the change in the air—heavier, more charged.

“Now!”

Proserpina snapped forward, unleashing a concentrated burst of venom that cut through the air like an arrow. The glob of poison struck the target with a sharp hiss, and this time, instead of dripping harmlessly, the liquid spread outward, sizzling as it sank into the dummy’s surface and left a faint, corrosive mark.

Ashley’s eyes went wide. “That was—whoa. That was awesome!”

Proserpina wobbled slightly but straightened up, her petals still glowing faintly as if proud of herself.

Koga nodded, but his expression remained serious. “Better. But not perfect. Toxic isn’t just about raw strength—it’s about lingering effects. The venom needs to stay, infect, and worsen with every second.”

Ashley stood, brushing the dirt off her knees and planting her fists on her hips. “Okay, so what’s next? Do we keep practicing that buildup?”

Koga’s lips quirked slightly, almost forming a smile. “We practice until it’s second nature. Until she doesn’t think about it—she just strikes. And when we’re done, no opponent will stand their ground against her toxins.”

Ashley grinned, glancing down at Proserpina, who was already straightening up and swaying slightly, clearly eager for another attempt.

“Alright, Prose,” Ashley said, crouching beside her again. “You heard him—let’s make this attack perfect. Think venom. Think precision. Think ninja.”

Proserpina hummed and planted her feet, already gathering energy as Koga stepped back, folding his arms to observe.

“Again,” he said, his voice sharp but steady.

Ashley pointed at the target. “Let’s show him how it’s done.”

Proserpina inhaled, her petals trembling with effort as the purple glow returned, stronger this time, more refined. Ashley didn’t take her eyes off her partner, her heart pounding with anticipation.

And when Proserpina fired, the venom struck dead center, sizzling instantly as it seeped in deeper, spreading like wildfire across the dummy’s surface. Ashley let out a whoop, pumping her fist in the air as Proserpina gave a triumphant chirp.

“Now that,” Koga said, finally allowing a small smile, “is Toxic.”

As Proserpina continued practicing, the rest of the team lined up. Mars went next, his claws sparking slightly as he focused, but the glob he fired fell short. He grumbled, tail flame flaring, but Ashley stepped in.

“Breathe, Mars. Focus. This isn’t Dragon Rush—no brute force. It’s all control.”

Mars exhaled through his nose and tried again, this time landing the Toxic hit but with slightly uneven spread. Vulcan followed, his attempt quick but messy, earning a sharp correction from Koga. Neptune’s turn was next—his calm demeanor made his attacks smooth, but the move lacked the punch Koga was looking for.

“Neptune, more pressure,” Ashley called. “Picture the rain gathering before a storm and then let it loose.”

Venus struggled the most, her attempts cute but ineffective, the poison dispersing like harmless mist rather than a concentrated hit. Ashley crouched beside her, scratching behind her ears.

“It’s okay, Venus. You’re new to this. Think of it like a wish—except instead of sparkles, it’s poison. Deadly, dangerous sparkles.”

Venus blinked up at her before trying again, this time managing to at least hit the base of the dummy. Ashley gave her a high-five, even as Koga shook his head and muttered about needing more discipline.

By the end of the session, Proserpina stood tall, her Toxic attacks landing every single time with deadly precision. Mars and Vulcan had improved, their moves faster and more controlled, though still needing polishing. Neptune showed promise, his long-range delivery steady, and Apollo’s focused blasts hinted at hidden potential. Venus was clearly the weakest with the move, but Ashley promised herself that they’d work on it.

Koga crossed his arms as the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the field. “Not bad for a first day,” he admitted, though his tone remained sharp. “But you’re not done yet. Mastering Toxic isn’t just about learning the move—it’s about knowing when and how to use it. That comes with experience.”

Ashley wiped sweat from her brow, grinning as she glanced at her team. “Good. We’ll get it.”

The following morning sun barely peeked over the horizon when Ashley arrived at the Fuchsia Gym’s training yard, stretching out sore muscles and wincing as she rotated her shoulders. Every joint felt stiff, every muscle heavy after the previous day’s training. But there she stood, dressed once again in the sleek purple ninja outfit Koga had given her, the fabric surprisingly light but durable. It made her feel ready—dangerous, even—like she could take on anything.

Until Koga arrived.

He appeared silently, stepping out from the shadows as if he’d been there the whole time. Ashley flinched, stumbling back a step before she caught herself. Vulcan barked beside her, his ears perked.

“Still too easy to catch off guard,” Koga said, not even a hint of humor in his voice. “You’ll need sharper instincts if you want to train like a ninja.”

Ashley straightened, trying to look more confident than she felt. “You try being sharp at sunrise after two days of hard work!”

Koga arched a brow. “A ninja does not complain.”

Ashley opened her mouth to fire back but immediately shut it when Koga’s sharp eyes pinned her in place. Fine. No complaining. She could handle that. Probably.

“Good,” Koga said, stepping back and gesturing to the obstacle course now set up in the training yard. Wooden beams crisscrossed like scaffolding, rope ladders hung from posts, and narrow balancing logs stretched over pits filled with water.

Ashley swallowed hard. “Is that… for me?”

Koga smirked. “It’s for both of you,” he said, glancing at Proserpina, who swayed eagerly beside her. “She trains her mind and venom, and you train your body and instincts. You’ll only grow stronger by pushing your limits.”

Ashley glanced at Proserpina, who hummed confidently as if this whole thing was already in the bag. Ashley, on the other hand, felt sweat forming on the back of her neck. But there was no backing out now.

“Alright,” she muttered, tying her hair back into a tighter ponytail. “Let’s do this.”

Koga didn’t waste time. “First—agility.” He stepped onto the balancing beams with the ease of someone walking down a sidewalk, barely making a sound as he moved. “Follow me.”

Ashley climbed onto the first beam and immediately wobbled, her arms flailing. Proserpina paused to watch, tilting her head as if silently judging her trainer.

“I’m fine!” Ashley hissed, catching herself before she fell and setting her jaw. Vulcan barked encouragingly from below.

Koga, already several steps ahead, barely glanced back. “Bend your knees. Lower your center of gravity. Think like a predator, not prey.”

Ashley grumbled but followed his instructions. Slowly, she steadied herself, moving across the beam in careful steps. Her confidence grew until—

“Duck!” Koga barked.

Ashley instinctively dropped into a crouch just as something whizzed overhead. She looked up to see a kunai embedded in the post beside her.

“What the—did you just throw that at me?!”

“Not at you,” Koga said flatly. “Near you. Learn to anticipate danger, not react to it.”

Ashley glared but forced herself to keep going. Her arms shook as she reached the end of the beam, dropping down to solid ground with a relieved sigh.

Koga didn’t let up. “Again.”

Ashley groaned, but Proserpina clapped her leaves together, clearly enjoying the chaos.

By mid-morning, Ashley had run the course so many times she lost count. She tumbled, dodged, and stumbled her way through rope ladders and climbing walls. She nearly face-planted twice while trying to leap between narrow beams but managed to stick the landing—barely. Her legs felt like jelly, and her arms trembled whenever she reached the next obstacle.

Meanwhile, Proserpina practiced firing Toxic blasts at moving targets. Koga called out commands as she trained, pushing her to aim faster, sharper, and with more precision. At one point, he threw three targets into the air at once, and Proserpina nailed all three before they hit the ground.

“Showoff,” Ashley panted as she hung upside-down from the rope net, she’d gotten tangled in for the second time.

Proserpina chirped happily, clearly thriving under Koga’s praise.

By noon, Ashley collapsed onto the grass, her arms spread wide as sweat soaked through her ninja outfit. Vulcan padded over and flopped down beside her, panting just as hard from running laps around the field.

Koga stepped over her, his shadow falling across her face. “Not bad for a first day.”

Ashley peeked up at him, groaning. “You mean this is just the warm-up?”

Koga actually smiled—barely. “Of course.”

Ashley let out an exaggerated whimper before sitting up, brushing dirt off her sleeves. “Fine. What’s next?”

Koga crouched beside her; his expression suddenly became more serious. “Next, we push harder. Today was about learning balance, agility, and control. Tomorrow, we test your reflexes and endurance. And Proserpina?”

Ashley looked over to see her Gloom standing tall, her petals trembling with energy.

“She’ll learn the art of deception,” Koga said, eyes glinting. “Poison isn’t just about brute force—it’s about subtlety. And I’ll make sure she masters it.”

Ashley grinned, already feeling the excitement bubbling up despite her exhaustion. “Good. Because we’re not backing down.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, and Proserpina twirled in place, as if already picturing her next victory.

Ashley pushed herself to her feet, legs wobbling slightly, but her determination never faltered. She was sore, exhausted, and covered in dirt, but she was ready for whatever Koga had planned next. And from the way he smirked, she knew it was going to be intense.

Unfortunately, Koga was still a Gym Leader and that came with its duties. So, the following morning, Ashley’s training was handed over to someone else as the Poison Master handled challengers.

Ashley sat cross-legged on the training field, her fingers tugging at blades of grass as Proserpina stood a few feet away, focused and determined. The morning sun cast a soft glow over the arena, but the heat of the day was already settling in. Janine, Koga’s daughter, stood off to the side, arms crossed and eyes sharp as she appraised Proserpina’s form. Her purple ninja uniform matched Ashley’s but with darker accents, making her look even more intimidating. Her Crobat hovered silently above her, its wings barely making a sound as it observed the session.

“Again,” Janine ordered, her tone brisk but not unkind. “Channel it properly this time. You’re not siphoning energy; you’re stealing it. Own that.”

Proserpina let out a determined hum and shifted her stance, her petals trembling as faint green energy began to pulse around her leaves. Ashley leaned forward, gripping her knees as she called out encouragement. “You got this, girl! Just like we practiced—deep breaths and focus!”

Proserpina’s glow flickered, and a beam of green light shot toward the training dummy across the field, latching onto its target. The leaves shimmered, and the tendrils of energy wavered slightly before fizzling out. Proserpina slumped slightly, looking disappointed.

“Better,” Janine said, stepping closer, her sharp eyes narrowing as she knelt beside the Gloom. “But you’re hesitating. You’re too cautious. Giga Drain isn’t polite—it’s relentless. You don’t give your opponent a chance to catch their breath.” She turned to Ashley, smirking. “Your girl’s got guts, but she’s still too nice.”

Ashley grinned despite herself. “Hey, we’re working on it. She’s already tougher than most.”

Janine straightened, her hands on her hips. “Tough’s good, but ruthless wins battles. Now, let’s try this again.” She gestured to her Crobat, which swooped down and hovered in front of Proserpina, its wings flaring outward menacingly. “You need to practice under pressure. Crobat’s not holding back. Ready?”

Proserpina’s leaves stiffened, her petals twitching as her eyes hardened with focus. Ashley felt her own pulse quicken but resisted the urge to call out instructions. She knew this was as much Proserpina’s battle as it was hers.

Janine snapped her fingers. “Crobat, Air Cutter!”

Crobat moved fast—too fast—and the sharp arcs of wind shot toward Proserpina before Ashley even had time to react. But Proserpina stood her ground, digging her feet into the dirt as the attack sliced toward her.

“Dodge!” Ashley finally shouted, but Proserpina didn’t move. Instead, her leaves began to glow, bright and vivid green, just as the Air Cutter connected.

“Wait—what’s she—” Ashley’s words caught in her throat as tendrils of energy shot out from Proserpina’s leaves, wrapping around Crobat before it could retreat. The beams pulsed, draining energy and glowing brighter as Proserpina absorbed the attack’s force and used it to fuel her own strength.

“Yes!” Ashley yelled, jumping to her feet as Proserpina’s glow intensified. “That’s it, girl! Don’t let go!”

Crobat screeched, flapping its wings frantically, but Proserpina held firm. The Giga Drain attack was steady this time—focused, sharp, and unrelenting. Janine’s lips quirked upward as she raised a hand. “Crobat, fall back.”

The bat Pokémon broke free, its wings wavering slightly as it retreated, clearly winded. Proserpina straightened, her petals glowing with restored energy, and let out a triumphant hum.

Ashley rushed forward, dropping to her knees and throwing her arms around her Pokémon. “You did it! You really did it!” Proserpina hummed happily, swaying her leaves and bumping her head against Ashley’s shoulder.

Janine approached, her Crobat landing beside her, looking slightly disgruntled but otherwise fine. “Not bad,” Janine said, her tone casual, but the faint smile tugging at her lips gave her away. “She’s got the hang of it now. You just need to keep practicing so she can hit faster targets without hesitation.”

Ashley stood, brushing dirt off her knees. “We’ll make it happen. Right, Proserpina?”

The Gloom nodded firmly, already looking ready for another round. Ashley glanced at Janine, tilting her head. “So, what’s next? Or do I get five minutes to catch my breath first?”

Janine smirked. “You get one minute. After that? We’re working on combos.”

Ashley groaned, but she couldn’t stop the grin spreading across her face. “Of course we are.”

As Janine turned to reset the training dummies, Ashley crouched beside Proserpina and gave her a quick scratch under her petals. “You’re amazing, you know that? We’re going to make Koga proud.”

Proserpina hummed, leaning into her trainer’s touch before straightening again, her eyes sharp and ready for more.

Janine didn’t waste any time. The moment the dummies were back in place, she clapped her hands sharply, drawing Ashley and Proserpina’s attention. “Alright, you two. Let’s see if you can handle layered tactics. Combos are all about creating momentum—setting up one move to make the next one even stronger.” She gestured toward the lineup of dummies. “This time, we’re not just working on raw power. We’re focusing on disruption and control. Think you’re ready?”

Ashley stood, brushing off the dirt from her knees as she gave Proserpina a quick nod. “We were born ready. Right, Prose?”

Proserpina swayed confidently, her leaves shimmering as she hummed in agreement.

“Good,” Janine said, stepping to the side with her arms crossed. “We’re going to start with your powders—those are your foundation. Build from there and control the field. And if you miss even once…” She let the words hang ominously.

Ashley smirked, cracking her knuckles. “Don’t worry. We won’t.”

Janine’s eyes sparkled with approval. “Then let’s begin. Start with Sleep Powder!”

Ashley was quick. “Proserpina, hit them with Sleep Powder!”

Proserpina’s petals quivered before she shook them, releasing a shimmering wave of blue-green spores that danced through the air. The fine mist spread quickly, settling over the dummies like a blanket of fog.

“Now layer it—Poison Powder!” Janine barked.

Ashley didn’t hesitate. “Prose, follow it up!”

Proserpina spun, her petals glowing faintly as a cloud of purple spores joined the haze. The combination created a swirling, toxic mist that made the air shimmer ominously.

Janine raised a brow. “Not bad. But let’s see how you handle pressure. Crobat, Air Cutter!”

Crobat shot forward, wings glowing as it unleashed slicing gusts of wind aimed straight for Proserpina and the mist.

“Counter it! Fire Swift through the haze!” Ashley shouted.

Proserpina reacted instantly. She inhaled deeply, her petals glowing a sharp gold before launching multiple stars through the cloud. The Swift cut through the Air Cutter like a blade through paper, hissing as it struck the dummies and slashing through the surface.

“Yes!” Ashley grinned, pumping her fist. “That’s what I’m talking about!”

Janine didn’t let up. “Not bad, but you need to keep up the pressure! Set a trap—Stun Spore, now!”

Ashley caught on quickly. “Prose, spread it wide!”

Proserpina’s petals trembled again, releasing golden spores that mixed into the already toxic haze. The mist pulsed, sparkling like fireworks as it thickened.

“Crobat, evade!” Janine called, but the thick cloud slowed the bat Pokémon’s movements.

“Giga Drain!” Ashley yelled.

Proserpina locked on, her leaves glowing bright green as tendrils of energy shot through the mist, snaking toward Crobat. The bat flapped desperately, trying to retreat, but the haze dulled its reflexes just enough for the energy to connect. The draining tendrils latched on, pulling energy away as Proserpina glowed brighter.

Janine raised a hand. “Enough!”

Crobat pulled back, wings drooping as it settled onto the ground, looking annoyed but not seriously hurt. Janine walked forward, her arms crossed but a glimmer of pride in her expression.

“Well,” she said, nodding at Ashley, “that was better than I expected.”

Ashley beamed, crouching beside Proserpina to rub her leaves affectionately. “You were amazing out there. Totally unstoppable.”

Proserpina hummed happily, swaying from side to side.

Janine stepped closer. “You’re not done yet, though. Combos like these are only useful if you can keep them up under pressure. The powders can layer and control, but you’ll need to practice timing—any hesitation and a faster opponent will rip right through your setup.”

Ashley stood, brushing dirt from her pants again. “Got it. We’ll work on the timing. And maybe add a few surprises.”

Janine smirked. “Good. Because tomorrow, you’re facing me directly. And I don’t plan on holding back.”

Ashley froze mid-stretch, her grin faltering slightly. “Wait—what?”

Janine turned on her heel and started walking away, Crobat following her. “You’ve got one day to sharpen your tactics. Don’t waste it.”

Ashley blinked, then turned to Proserpina with a shaky laugh. “Guess we’re pulling an all-nighter.”

Proserpina let out an exhausted hum, but even through the tiredness, Ashley saw determination in her eyes.

“Let’s do this,” Ashley said, crouching beside her Pokémon. “We’re not just winning tomorrow—we’re showing everyone what you can really do.”

Proserpina swayed, ready to face whatever came next.

The next day, Ashley stood and stretched, already feeling the soreness in her muscles but pushing it aside. She glanced up at the sky, where the sun had risen higher, heating the field and casting long shadows. It was going to be a long day, but as Ashley watched Proserpina square off with yet another, Crobat, she knew they were ready for it.

Koga stood with his arms crossed, his sharp eyes locked on Proserpina as she swayed in place, her leaves trembling with anticipation. Ashley knelt beside her Gloom, brushing a few stray leaves from Proserpina’s petals before standing up and clapping her hands to get their attention.

“Alright, girl,” Ashley said, her voice steady despite the slight flutter of nerves in her stomach. “We’ve got this. You ready to add some edge to your arsenal?”

Proserpina hummed in response, her petals bobbing up and down. She looked focused—determined even—but Ashley could see the slight twitch in her leaves, that flicker of hesitation that always came when they were about to try something new.

Koga stepped forward, his hands moving in precise, fluid gestures as he spoke, like every word was part of a kata. “Acid is more than just an attack. It’s intimidation. Control. Poison is not about brute strength—it’s about erosion, weakening the opponent piece by piece until they can’t fight back.”

Ashley nodded along, her arms crossed as she considered his words. “So… basically, it’s about wearing them down, not going for the knockout punch right away?”

Koga gave her a sharp nod. “Exactly. It’s a slow burn. Acid isn’t about flashy power—it’s about persistence. The trick is precision. If Proserpina’s aim is sloppy, the attack will lose its potency. But if she strikes with focus, the damage will stick, lingering with every hit.”

Ashley crouched down to meet Proserpina’s gaze, resting her hands on her knees. “You hear that? This is all about focus. We need to make every hit count. No holding back.”

Proserpina let out a soft hum, her leaves stiffening in response.

“Good,” Koga said, stepping back and gesturing toward one of the training dummies. “Start with a small burst. Don’t aim for power yet. Just control.”

Ashley straightened, pointing toward the target. “Alright, Proserpina—let’s give this a shot. Use Acid!”

Proserpina planted her feet and closed her eyes. Her petals began to tremble, glowing faintly as a strange purple liquid started to form at their edges. Ashley watched closely, her fists clenching at her sides.

The glow intensified, and Proserpina released a spray of shimmering, corrosive liquid that arced through the air like a whip. It splattered against the dummy, sizzling faintly as the liquid seeped into the material. Ashley’s eyes widened.

“Whoa,” she breathed, stepping closer. “Did you see that? It’s like—”

Koga interrupted, his voice sharp. “Again.”

Proserpina flinched slightly but straightened immediately, her petals trembling as she prepared another attack. This time, the acid hit slightly off-center, landing closer to the dummy’s base and leaving a smaller splash.

“Too wide,” Koga said, pacing closer as Proserpina sagged slightly. “You’re scattering your energy. Narrow your focus. Picture a single point. Breathe into it.”

Ashley knelt beside Proserpina again, resting a hand on her petals. “Don’t worry about messing up,” she said softly. “You’re still learning. We’ll figure it out.”

Proserpina hummed, her leaves rustling as if shaking off her earlier misfire.

Ashley stood, her voice stronger this time. “Let’s go again, Proserpina. One target. Right in the center!”

Proserpina closed her eyes, her petals trembling as the purple glow returned. This time, Ashley could feel the shift—the focus Koga had been talking about. The energy condensed, sharper and more concentrated, before bursting forward in a thin, controlled stream. It struck the dummy dead center, sizzling loudly as it ate away at the material.

“Yes!” Ashley pumped her fist in the air, her grin splitting wide. “That’s what I’m talking about!”

Koga gave a small nod, his expression unreadable, but Ashley caught the faintest hint of approval in his eyes.

“Better,” Koga said. “But we’re not done yet. Acid is only useful if you can fire it under pressure. We’ll test that next.”

Ashley blinked. “Wait, under—”

Before she could finish, Koga snapped his fingers, and Janine’s Crobat swooped down from above, circling the arena. Ashley barely had time to shout before the bat let loose a gust of wind, scattering dust and leaves across the training ground.

“Defensive practice,” Koga said simply, crossing his arms. “Proserpina needs to hit a moving target—and she needs to hit it before it strikes first.”

Ashley bit her lip, but Proserpina was already stepping forward, her petals trembling but steady.

“Alright, girl. You heard him. We’re not backing down now!” Ashley pointed toward Crobat. “Wait for the opening—then Acid!”

Crobat dived, its wings slicing through the air as it aimed for Proserpina. The Gloom held her ground, her petals glowing faintly as she tracked the movement. At the last second, just before Crobat could close the distance, Proserpina fired.

The Acid shot out in a sharp arc, and Crobat barely dodged, a few droplets grazing its wing and leaving faint, sizzling marks. The bat hissed and retreated to the rafters.

Ashley pumped her fist. “That’s it! Keep that aim steady!”

Proserpina straightened, her glow fading as she let out a soft hum of triumph.

Koga stepped forward, his sharp gaze settling on the Gloom. “She’s improving. But don’t get comfortable. You’ll need more than accuracy to handle opponents that fight back.”

Ashley smirked, wiping sweat from her forehead. “Don’t worry. We’re just getting started.”

Proserpina swayed proudly, her petals lifting in the light as if ready to keep going. Ashley couldn’t help but grin. They were definitely going to ace this training.

Ashley stood at the edge of the training arena, arms crossed and eyes sharp as Proserpina prepared for yet another round of drills. The sun had dipped low, casting long shadows across the polished floor, but Ashley didn’t call it quits. Not yet. Not until they nailed this. Proserpina swayed slightly, petals trembling with energy as she focused on her next shot.

“Alright, Proserpina,” Ashley said, her voice steady but encouraging. “One more time. Focus everything you’ve got—no holding back.”

Proserpina let out a determined hum, her eyes narrowing as she rooted herself to the ground. Her leaves began to glow faintly, the same vibrant purple hue that had become more controlled with every attempt. Ashley watched carefully, her heart pounding as the attack formed.

“Steady...” Ashley murmured, watching Proserpina’s stance. “Aim for precision. Not too wide, not too sharp. Just like we practiced.”

Proserpina’s petals quivered as droplets of corrosive liquid began to form along their edges, glowing faintly in the dimming light. Then, with a sharp flick of her leaves, the Gloom fired the stream of Acid.

The attack shot through the air like liquid lightning, arching gracefully before splattering directly onto the target dummy. This time, it wasn’t just a hit—it was a perfect strike. The acid sizzled on impact, eating into the material and leaving behind a deep, smoldering scorch mark.

“Yes!” Ashley jumped in the air, pumping her fist. “That’s it, Proserpina! You nailed it!”

Proserpina swayed happily, her petals shimmering as she let out a cheerful hum. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh, stepping closer and crouching down to give her Pokémon a quick pat on the head.

“Look at you!” Ashley said, grinning as Proserpina leaned into the touch. “You didn’t just hit the target—you melted it! That’s what I’m talking about!”

Behind her, Koga stood with his arms crossed, his usual stern expression softened by a hint of approval. He stepped forward, his quiet footsteps echoing in the near-empty gym.

“She’s mastered the technique,” he said simply, his gaze flickering to Proserpina. “Her control has improved significantly, and her aim is precise.”

Ashley straightened, brushing dust off her pants before flashing a proud grin. “Told you she had it in her.”

Koga nodded but kept his tone even. “Mastery of Acid is only the beginning. Poison-types are versatile, but they require adaptability. The next step is learning how to combine Acid with her other techniques—to control the flow of battle.”

Ashley tilted her head, curious. “What do you mean?”

“Watch,” Koga said, stepping back and gesturing for Proserpina to prepare again. “Proserpina, Acid—followed by Stun Spore.”

Proserpina perked up at the command and quickly readied herself. She fired another stream of Acid, this one just as precise as the last, but before the attack even landed, she shook her petals, releasing a fine golden mist of Stun Spore that swirled through the air. The spores clung to the corrosive droplets, dispersing in a wide arc as they drifted toward the target.

Ashley’s eyes widened. “Whoa... that’s—”

“A layered assault,” Koga finished, nodding. “The Acid forces an opponent to evade, leaving them vulnerable to the secondary effect of the spores.”

“That’s genius!” Ashley turned back to Proserpina, who beamed proudly at the praise. “Did you see that? You’re a natural at this!”

Proserpina let out an eager chirp, bouncing on her stubby legs. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh, brushing back a loose strand of hair before focusing again.

“Alright, let’s keep going,” Ashley said, her grin returning. “We’re not stopping until we’ve perfected this combo.”

Koga smirked faintly, stepping back to observe as Ashley and Proserpina dove back into their drills. They practiced the combination over and over—Acid, then Stun Spore—tightening the timing, refining the arc of the attack, until the transition between the two moves was seamless.

Hours passed, but Ashley barely noticed. She was too focused, too energized by the steady progress they were making. Proserpina’s accuracy sharpened with each attempt, and by the time the gym’s torches were flickering low, they had the combo down to an art form.

They tried many combination, and what fun they were!

First came the Stun Spore—her petals quivered before a cloud of golden dust exploded outward, sparkling in the dim light of the gym like glitter. Ashley’s eyes locked on the spread, noticing how the particles drifted evenly instead of scattering wildly. It was faster this time, too, blanketing the air in seconds.

“Good! Now Sleep Powder!”

Proserpina barely hesitated, already shaking her petals again. This time, a soft, silvery mist rolled out from her leaves, weaving through the golden haze like a phantom. It drifted low, pooling toward the floor and creating a shimmering layer that seemed to pulse as it mixed with the Stun Spore.

“Now Poison Powder!”

Proserpina’s petals flared, releasing a deeper, violet-colored dust that swept through the air like smoke. Ashley tensed, watching as the cloud darkened, layering on top of the others until the arena looked more like a toxic fogbank than a training room.

Koga raised his hand sharply. “Hold!”

Proserpina froze mid-motion, her breathing heavy but steady as the powders slowly began to settle. Ashley couldn’t stop her grin—Proserpina had done it. She’d layered all three powders in seconds without losing focus.

Ashley rushed forward, crouching beside her Pokémon and brushing her fingers gently over Proserpina’s petals. “You’re amazing, you know that? Look at you—you just turned this whole gym into a status nightmare!”

Proserpina let out a soft chirp, swaying as if she were trying to look modest, but the pride radiating off her was impossible to miss.

Koga stepped closer, nodding thoughtfully. “She’s fast, but more importantly, she’s efficient. Notice how little powder she used?”

Ashley blinked, glancing at the faint traces of dust still lingering in the air. He was right. Proserpina hadn’t emptied her stores like she used to—she’d released just enough to coat the field without wasting any energy.

Ashley’s eyes widened. “Wait... is that why she’s still standing? Her attacks are stronger, but she’s not burning through all her stamina to pull them off.”

Koga allowed himself the faintest of smiles. “Exactly. Efficiency and control go hand in hand. With enough practice, she’ll be able to overwhelm her opponents before they even realize what’s happening.”

Ashley looked down at Proserpina, her grin returning. “You hear that? You’re on your way to becoming a status queen.”

Proserpina hummed happily, her petals practically glowing with pride.

“But,” Koga said sharply, pulling Ashley’s attention back. “It’s not just about spreading powders. It’s about what comes after. She needs to capitalize on that opening. Whether it’s locking the opponent in place, sapping their energy, or setting up a finisher—you need to think ahead.”

Ashley nodded, already running through combinations in her head. “So... pair Stun Spore with Acid to trap them, then Giga Drain to recover health while they’re paralyzed?”

Koga nodded approvingly. “A solid strategy. But you’ll need variations. Don’t get predictable. Surprise is a ninja’s greatest weapon.”

Ashley smirked. “Guess we’ll just have to keep get creative until we’re unpredictable.”

Koga crossed his arms again, his tone serious but not unkind. “I’ll expect nothing less.” Finally, he gave a slight nod, stepping forward with the kind of precision that made Ashley wonder if his feet even touched the floor. Koga cleared his throat, drawing their attention back. He reached into the folds of his uniform and pulled out a small pouch tied shut with a black ribbon. “For you,” he said, holding it out toward Ashley.

She blinked, stepping forward carefully and taking it with both hands as if it might explode—which, honestly, wasn’t off the table given who it was coming from. The pouch felt light, but when she untied the ribbon and peeked inside, she let out an audible gasp.

“Smoke bombs?” Ashley looked up at Koga with wide eyes, barely able to keep from grinning. “Are you serious?”

Koga gave the faintest smirk. “You’ve proven you can handle the basics of misdirection and strategy. Consider these tools a symbol of your progress—and a reminder to keep practicing.”

Ashley held the pouch close, already imagining the kind of tricks she could pull off with these. “You have no idea how much I’m gonna overuse these.”

Koga’s smirk deepened. “I think I do.”

Proserpina let out a curious hum, nosing at the pouch before Koga stepped forward again. This time, he held something smaller—smooth, green, and faintly glowing. A Leaf Stone. Ashley froze, her breath catching.

“For her,” Koga said, extending the stone carefully, but he locked eyes with Ashley. “But only when you’re both ready.”

Ashley stared at the Leaf Stone, her fingers brushing against the smooth surface before curling around it gently. The glow seemed to pulse faintly in her palm, like it was alive. She swallowed hard, then looked down at Proserpina, who was watching the stone with wide eyes and trembling petals.

“Not yet,” Ashley said softly, crouching so she was eye level with Proserpina. “You’re strong—crazy strong—but we’re not there yet, are we?”

Proserpina blinked, then slowly shook her head, letting out a soft sound that was almost like a sigh of relief. Ashley smiled.

“But when we are?” Ashley lifted the stone slightly, making sure Proserpina could see the light bouncing off it. “This is ours. You’re gonna bloom into something amazing, I know it.”

Proserpina chirped, brushing her petals against Ashley’s hand before stepping back and straightening up again, her confidence returning.

Koga watched the exchange quietly, then gave another nod. “You’re learning to trust each other. That bond is what makes a team strong—not just moves and stats.”

Ashley pocketed the Leaf Stone carefully, making sure it was secure before standing again. “Thanks, Koga. Seriously. For everything.”

He waved her off, turning sharply on his heel. “Don’t thank me yet. This is only the beginning. You’ll need more than powders and toxins to survive the League.”

Ashley grinned, her energy renewed despite the exhaustion weighing on her limbs. “Good thing I’ve got time—and the best training partner ever.”

Proserpina let out a proud hum, and Ashley laughed, reaching down to scoop her up in her arms as the Gloom let out a happy squeak. She twirled in place, ignoring how tired she was and making Proserpina’s petals flutter wildly in the motion.

“Now let’s go celebrate,” Ashley said, hugging Proserpina close. “You totally earned it.”

As they left the gym, the pouch of smoke bombs jingling lightly at her waist and the Leaf Stone safely tucked away, Ashley couldn’t help but feel the weight of the day settle into her bones—not the exhaustion, but the thrill of progress.

Chapter Text

Ashley adjusted the straps of her backpack, the warm afternoon sun trailing down on her shoulders as she made her way onto the Cycling Road. The wind carried the faint scent of salt from the ocean, mingling with the earthy smell of the tall grass lining the route. Her boots crunched against the dirt path as she walked beside Venus, her Eevee trotting lightly at her side, and Vulcan, her Growlithe, who sniffed every blade of grass like it held the secrets of the universe.

Venus let out a soft chirp, her fluffy tail swishing as she jumped onto a low rock and perched there like a queen surveying her kingdom. Ashley smirked and reached out to ruffle her fur. "You’re really feeling yourself after that contest win, huh? Not that I blame you. You were amazing out there.”

Venus purred and lifted her nose proudly. Vulcan huffed, looking unimpressed, and nudged Ashley’s leg with his head as if to remind her that he’d been the one to help her survive ninja training, not prance around in ribbons.

“Don’t give me that look,” Ashley said, crouching to scratch behind his ears. “Venus can be the beauty queen, and you can be my knight in furry armor.”

Vulcan barked, satisfied with the answer, and padded forward with his nose low to the ground again. Ashley straightened up, watching him sniff out the trail, before glancing back at Venus, who had hopped off the rock to keep pace.

“So,” Ashley began, shifting her bag to one shoulder, “what do you guys think we’re gonna run into out here? Trainers? Wild Pokémon? Maybe someone with a better sense of direction than me?”

Vulcan barked again, this time sharper, and Ashley paused, following his gaze to a patch of rustling grass. Venus bristled, her ears perking as she stared at the movement. Ashley reached for one of her Poké Balls instinctively but didn’t throw it just yet.

“Alright, team,” she said quietly, crouching down and lowering her voice. “Eyes sharp. Let’s see what we’re dealing with.”

The rustling grew louder, and suddenly, a pair of Doduo burst out from the tall grass, their heads bobbing wildly as they sprinted across the path. Vulcan lunged forward, barking at them, but Ashley snapped her fingers.

“Leave it!” she called, and Vulcan skidded to a stop, looking back at her with a frustrated whine.

“Sorry, buddy,” Ashley said, patting his head, “but we’ve already got a bird waiting for us back home. Let’s not go chasing new ones just yet.”

Venus, meanwhile, had turned her attention back to the road, prancing forward with her tail swishing behind her. Ashley shook her head, laughing under her breath. “She’s acting like she already owns this whole route.”

The path sloped upward as they continued, the incline growing steeper. Ashley could hear the faint whir of bike chains and bells ahead, signaling they were finally nearing the main Cycling Road. She paused at the top of the hill to catch her breath, wiping sweat from her forehead as she looked out at the view.

Below, the road stretched out in a long, winding curve, suspended over the water on a massive bridge. Cyclists zipped back and forth, calling out to each other as they rode past. Ashley grinned, leaning on the railing to take it all in.

“Man, I can’t believe we’re finally here,” she said, mostly to herself. “It’s weird, right? Like, we’ve been through volcanoes, ice caves, contests, ninja training, and now we’re just… on a bridge. Walking.”

Venus hopped up onto the railing beside her, peering down at the water. Vulcan stood at her feet, tail wagging as he sniffed the air. Ashley reached down to scratch his head again.

“Not that I’m complaining,” she added. “After Koga, we kinda earned a quiet walk, don’t you think?”

Vulcan barked in agreement, and Venus let out a soft trill.

Ashley pushed herself off the railing and started walking again, her team keeping pace. The wind tugged at her hair, carrying the cries of wild Pokémon in the distance.

“Let’s keep moving,” she said, tightening the straps on her backpack. “I heard you can rent bicycles from the check points at the ends of the road. And I do not know about you, but I am aiming for a speed up!”

With that, they set off down the Cycling Road, the bridge stretching endlessly before them and the horizon calling them forward.

Ashley leaned forward, gripping the handlebars of her bright red bike as the wind whipped through her hair. The sun glinted off the polished frame, and the tires hummed against the road as she pedaled faster, the thrill of the speed making her heart race. Venus sprinted at her side, her fluffy tail streaming behind her like a banner, while Vulcan galloped just ahead, his tongue lolling out and his fur rippling in the breeze.

“This is amazing!” Ashley shouted over the sound of the wind, glancing at her Pokémon with a wide grin. “I feel like we’re flying!”

Venus let out a chirping cry in agreement, and Vulcan barked enthusiastically before bolting ahead. Ashley narrowed her eyes, smirking as she pushed harder on the pedals.

“Oh, you think you’re faster than me, huh?” she teased, leaning onto the handlebars. “We’ll see about that!”

She kicked up her speed, her legs pumping as the bike shot forward, closing the gap between her and Vulcan. The Growlithe barked in surprise and picked up the pace, paws pounding against the pavement as he tried to stay ahead. Venus, meanwhile, darted between them, effortlessly weaving back and forth like a racer determined to play referee.

Ashley laughed so hard her sides started to hurt, but she didn’t slow down—not yet. The road ahead stretched out like a ribbon, sloping downward as they approached the entrance to Route 16. The breeze turned cooler as they neared the trees lining the route, and Ashley finally pulled back on the brakes, letting the bike slow as Vulcan and Venus caught up.

“Alright, alright!” Ashley gasped, leaning over the handlebars and grinning at her Pokémon. “You win this one, buddy.” She patted Vulcan’s head as he padded over, panting but clearly pleased with himself. “But don’t get cocky. I’m still faster on two wheels than you are on four paws.”

Vulcan huffed in mock offense, his tail wagging despite his dramatic act. Venus, still full of energy, circled them both before hopping onto a nearby rock and looking around, her ears twitching as she surveyed the area.

Ashley stretched her arms high above her head, letting out a long sigh as she stepped past the checkpoint and waved goodbye to the rental attendant. “So much for wheels,” she muttered, shifting her bag higher onto her shoulders. The red bicycle had been fun, but there was something grounding about being back on her feet. Her sneakers crunched against the dirt path as she walked, and she glanced down at Venus and Vulcan trotting beside her.

Ashley straightened, taking in the view herself. The entrance to Route 16 was flanked by tall trees, their branches heavy with leaves that cast dappled shadows on the path below. Wildflowers dotted the grassy edges, their petals swaying in the gentle breeze. Off in the distance, she could hear the faint calls of bird Pokémon and the rustling of something moving through the underbrush.

“Looks like we’re back in wild territory,” Ashley said, pulling out her Pokédex and flipping it open. “Better keep an eye out. Who knows what kind of Pokémon we’ll run into here?”

Venus perked up at that, hopping down from her perch and trotting closer, clearly curious. Vulcan, on the other hand, kept sniffing at the ground, his nose twitching as he tracked something. Ashley squinted, stepping closer to see what had caught his attention.

“What is it, boy? Smell something good—or something we should worry about?”

Before Vulcan could react, a rustle in the bushes made all three of them freeze. Ashley instinctively reached for a Poké Ball, but the sound that followed—soft and melodic—made her pause. She lowered her hand as a Pidgeotto fluttered out from the underbrush, its wings catching the sunlight as it landed a few feet away and began pecking at the ground.

Ashley exhaled, letting go of the tension in her shoulders. “False alarm,” she said with a grin, stepping back. “No battles today unless they come to us. Hope you guys are ready for some serious walking,” she said, flashing them a grin. “Because Celadon’s not exactly around the corner.”

Venus twitched her ears and chirped, already darting ahead to sniff at a patch of wildflowers growing along the edge of the trail. Vulcan, ever the loyal shadow, padded closer to Ashley’s side, his tongue hanging out as his tail wagged lazily behind him.

Ashley laughed and reached down to scratch behind his ears. “You’re not fooling anyone, Vulcan. I saw how fast you were running back on the Cycling Road. You’ll be fine.”

The Growlithe gave her an exaggerated huff but didn’t complain, instead keeping his eyes sharp as he scanned the trail ahead. Venus suddenly let out a squeak and bounded off the trail, disappearing into the tall grass. Ashley blinked, stepping forward. “Venus? Hey—don’t go too far!”

Before she could follow, the Eevee popped back out, carrying a bright red berry in her mouth. She padded up to Ashley and dropped it proudly at her feet. Ashley crouched down, taking the berry and inspecting it. “A Razz Berry, huh? Nice find, Venus.” She patted the Eevee’s head, tucking the berry into her bag. “Keep this up, and you’re officially in charge of snack duty.”

Venus wagged her tail, clearly pleased with herself, before bounding off again to look for more treasures. Vulcan followed this time, his nose to the ground as he helped scout ahead.

The path wound through fields and scattered groves of trees, and Ashley soaked in the scenery as she walked. Kanto’s landscape never failed to amaze her—rolling hills to the east, patches of flowers and berry bushes tucked in every corner, and the occasional flock of Pidgey fluttering overhead.

She paused when she spotted a small pond off to the side of the trail. “What do you guys think? Water break?”

Vulcan barked, already trotting toward the edge, while Venus circled back, clearly eager to join. Ashley followed, dropping her bag onto the grass before kneeling by the water’s edge.

As Vulcan lapped up the cool water, Venus dipped her paws in, splashing around as if testing the temperature. Ashley laughed. “You’re not a Water-type, Venus. Don’t get any ideas.”

Venus ignored her, playfully swiping at the ripples her paws created. Vulcan stepped back, shaking his fur and giving the Eevee a look that said, Seriously?

Ashley leaned back on her hands, letting the sunlight warm her face. “Alright, five more minutes, and then we’re moving again.”

Of course, five minutes turned into ten, and then fifteen, as Venus found herself fascinated with a group of Goldeen swimming in the pond. She pawed at the water, chirping excitedly whenever one came close. Vulcan, meanwhile, seemed more interested in chasing his reflection until Ashley finally stood up and stretched.

Ashley scrolled through the map, her finger tracing the path ahead. “Looks like this route’s gonna take us straight to Celadon City if we keep heading north. Gym number three.” She glanced down at her Pokémon with a grin. “You guys ready for that? Or do we need a couple more pit stops before we face Erika?”

Venus let out a chirp of intrigue, and Vulcan barked, hopping to his feet and wagging his tail like he was ready to leave right that second. Ashley laughed, tucking her PokéNav away and standing up again.

“Alright, alright, I get it. We need to keep up the routine and do some sightseeing!” She ruffled Vulcan’s ears one last time before swinging her leg back over the bike and adjusting the straps on her bag. “Let’s hit the road. Celadon City, here we come!”

With that, she pushed off, the wheels spinning as she pedaled forward, and Venus and Vulcan raced after her. The rest of the walk passed in relative peace—aside from the occasional wild Pokémon popping out of the grass to give them a curious look. Ashley kept one hand near her Poké Balls, ready just in case, but none of the Pokémon seemed too interested in picking a fight.

By the time Celadon City’s towering buildings came into view, Ashley felt her legs starting to protest. She stopped at the top of a hill overlooking the city, letting out a low whistle.

“Look at that, guys.” She shifted Venus to her shoulder and pointed. “That’s Celadon. Gym number three. Erika’s supposed to be tough, but I think we’re tougher.”

Venus let out a soft cry of agreement, and Vulcan barked, his tail wagging furiously.

Ashley grinned and patted them both. “What about some shopping? This city’s supposed to have a huge department store. I bet we can find some new gear—and maybe something fancy for you, Venus.”

The Eevee tilted her head, clearly interested, and Ashley laughed as she started down the hill, her Pokémon at her side and the city sprawling out ahead of them.

Ashley stepped through the bustling streets of Celadon City, her head swiveling as she tried to take it all in. The towering buildings stretched high, their windows reflecting the golden light of the afternoon sun. Crowds moved in waves around her, people chattering, laughing, and haggling at market stalls. The scent of roasted chestnuts and fresh pastries drifted through the air, making Ashley’s stomach grumble despite the snacks she’d packed earlier.

Venus perched proudly on her shoulder, her fluffy tail brushing against Ashley’s neck as she turned her head this way and that, wide-eyed at the endless rows of shops and colorful signs. Vulcan stayed close by Ashley’s legs, his nose twitching as he tracked every new scent.

Ashley adjusted her bag and gave them both a quick look. “Alright, you two, listen up.” She crouched, pointing a finger at Venus first. “You stay put. No hopping off my shoulder to chase shiny things, got it?”

Venus let out a soft chirp and flicked her tail in what Ashley decided was agreement—though there was definitely a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Ashley shifted her focus to Vulcan next, narrowing her eyes. “And you. No running after anything that smells like food. I mean it. I don’t care how good it smells or how much you want to ‘investigate.’”

Vulcan huffed but wagged his tail, earning a scratch behind his ears.

“Good. Now let’s see what this place has to offer before we get lost.”

The first stop was an outdoor flower market, where stands overflowed with blooms of every color. Venus nearly wriggled off Ashley’s shoulder at the sight of the brightly colored petals, and Ashley had to tighten her grip.

“Hold it,” she warned, laughing as the Eevee let out an impatient squeak. “You can’t just pounce on someone’s flowers!”

The vendor, an elderly woman with dirt-streaked hands and a kind smile, waved them closer. “Oh, don’t worry about that little one,” she said. “She’s curious. Let her have a sniff.”

Ashley let Venus hop down, keeping a close eye on her as the Eevee darted between displays, pausing to nose at sunflowers and lavender bunches. Vulcan stayed at Ashley’s heel, sitting politely as the vendor handed Ashley a small bouquet of marigolds.

“Here—good luck charms,” the woman said, tucking them into Ashley’s bag.

Ashley grinned. “Thanks! We’ll need all the luck we can get for the gym battle.”

The next stop was the Celadon Department Store, which towered like a fortress in the middle of the city. The entrance was flanked by glass doors that whooshed open as Ashley stepped inside, Venus hopping back onto her shoulder and Vulcan padding in cautiously, his claws clicking against the polished tile floor.

Ashley let out a low whistle as she took in the sheer size of the place. Shelves stretched in every direction, stacked high with Poké Balls, potions, and battle items. Posters hung overhead, advertising the latest TM sets and evolutionary stones, while a salesclerk demonstrated the new PokéGear upgrades to a small crowd.

“Okay, this place is officially dangerous,” Ashley muttered, already eyeing the shelves of grooming supplies and decorative collars. Venus perked up, her ears twitching as if she could sense her trainer’s weakness.

“Nope,” Ashley said firmly, steering them toward the practical items first. “Battle stuff first. Fancy stuff later.”

They ended up spending nearly an hour browsing. After managing to drag herself away from the store without completely blowing her budget, Ashley wandered over to the Game Corner, drawn by the flashing lights and excited cheers. She didn’t go in—there were more important things to focus on than slot machines—but she made a mental note to check it out later if they had time.

Ashley sat down on the edge of the fountain, letting herself relax for a moment. “Well, guys,” she said, stretching her legs out, “I’d say it’s pretty good start. No one got lost, no one got into trouble—”

She broke off as Venus suddenly reached a paw into the water and flicked it, sending a splash right into Vulcan’s face. The Growlithe yelped and backed up, shaking himself off with an indignant huff.

Ashley snorted. “Never mind. I take it back.”

Venus let out a happy chirp, clearly pleased with herself, and Vulcan gave chase as she darted around the fountain. Ashley let them play for a bit, keeping an eye on the two as they burned off their energy.

Eventually, she stood and scooped Venus up mid-run, ignoring her protests as she set the Eevee back on her shoulder. “Alright, you two, let’s get back to the Department Store.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, and the three of them made their way back through the city. Ashley felt her excitement building again. Ashley stepped through the sliding glass doors of Celadon’s Department Store, and the moment the blast of cool, air-conditioned air hit her, she knew she was in trouble. Not because of the sheer size of the place—though the five towering floors stacked with merchandise were enough to make her wallet preemptively cry—but because Venus was already hopping on her shoulder, her fluffy tail brushing Ashley’s cheek as she let out an excited squeak.

“Calm down, princess,” Ashley laughed, balancing the Eevee as she grabbed a shopping basket. “We’re not buying the whole store.”

Vulcan padded along at her feet, his nose twitching as they passed rows of displays filled with Poké Dolls, shiny accessories, and grooming kits. Ashley winced as his tail wagged dangerously close to a stack of glittery collars. She reached down to guide him away before disaster struck.

“Eyes on the prize, guys. We’re here for supplies,” Ashley reminded them, steering her team toward the elevator. Venus let out a dramatic sigh and flopped onto her shoulder as if the weight of the world—or maybe the lack of immediate treats—was too much to bear.

Ashley jabbed the button for the fourth floor, her heart picking up a little as she spotted the sign: TMs and Battle Items. Now this was what she’d been waiting for.

The elevator dinged, and the doors slid open to reveal shelves upon shelves of neatly stacked Technical Machines. The walls were lined with glass cases displaying some of the rarer ones, and Ashley’s eyes sparkled as she stepped inside, practically vibrating with excitement.

“Alright,” she said, her gaze already scanning the labels. “Let’s see what we’re working with.”

Venus perked up, hopping off Ashley’s shoulder to investigate the brightly lit displays, while Vulcan trotted after her, occasionally glancing back to make sure Ashley was still keeping up.

Ashley stopped dead when she spotted the TM section for high-powered moves. “Jackpot,” she breathed, crouching down to get a closer look. The reusable TMs were encased in protective plastic, their names written in bold letters that practically screamed ‘Buy me!’

Ashley stopped dead when she spotted the TM section, her eyes scanning the neatly organized shelves filled with move cases. Each one gleamed under the fluorescent lights, their labels practically shouting for attention. She knelt down, brushing her fingers over the rows as she read them aloud.

“Egg Bomb? Too unpredictable. Mega Punch? Meh. Mega Kick? Looks cool, but not really our style.” Her eyes trailed further. “Take Down—yeah, let’s not go with self-damage. Submission? Way too risky for what we need right now.” She sighed, rocking back on her heels as Vulcan sniffed one of the lower shelves, his tail flicking curiously.

Then her gaze landed on Shadow Ball. Ashley’s fingers hovered over the case as her mind raced. “Huh,” she murmured, tilting her head. “This could work… eventually. Apollo could probably learn it once he evolves.” She tapped the case lightly, thinking it through. “But no. Not today.” She left it where it was, earning a soft huff from Vulcan, who had clearly been hoping for something more dramatic.

And then—bingo.

Ashley’s eyes locked onto a case labeled Iron Tail, and she didn’t hesitate. “Now we’re talking,” she said, pulling it off the shelf and holding it up triumphantly. “This one’s for you, Vulcan.” The Growlithe barked, his tail wagging as if he already knew what the move could do.

Ashley turned the TM over in her hands, grinning. “Just picture it—smashing through defenses like it’s nothing. You’ll be like the god of blacksmiths, just… with more fur.” Vulcan gave an enthusiastic bark, clearly sold on the idea.

Satisfied, Ashley tucked it into her basket and kept browsing. Venus, meanwhile, darted down another aisle, her fluffy tail waving behind her as she squeaked excitedly. “Venus, wait up!” Ashley called, though she was already following.

She found the little Eevee sniffing at a display of scarves, her nose brushing against a pale blue one that shimmered faintly under the lights. Ashley crouched beside her. “You’ve got expensive taste, huh?”

Venus chirped and pawed at the scarf, as if she’d already claimed it. Ashley laughed, giving in immediately. “Alright, alright—you’ve earned it.” She grabbed the scarf and tossed it into her basket. “But don’t expect this to be a habit,” she teased, though Venus clearly wasn’t buying it as she puffed out her chest proudly.

Ashley straightened up and turned back toward the shelves, scanning the cases one more time. That’s when her eyes fell on Ice Beam. She froze for a moment, her mind already jumping to Neptune.

“Oh, this is perfect,” she said, reaching for it. “Neptune’s gonna be unstoppable with this.” The Lapras’s calm, steady style would pair perfectly with such a precise and devastating move. Ashley smirked, already imagining Neptune freezing an entire battlefield into submission.

Vulcan tilted his head, clearly unimpressed, but Ashley ruffled his fur. “Don’t give me that look. Not everything can be fire and fury, okay? Sometimes you’ve got to hit them where they least expect it.”

Vulcan huffed but didn’t argue, turning his attention back to sniffing the shelves while Ashley finalized her choices. By the time they reached the checkout counter, Ashley’s basket was filled with supplies—TMs, Potions, and even a few Poké Puffs for later. Vulcan sat patiently by her feet, though his eyes never strayed far from the snacks in the basket, and Venus was already preening with the scarf tied neatly around her neck.

Ashley handed over her Trainer ID and payment, waiting as the clerk rang up her haul.

“Stocking up for the gym challenge?” the woman asked, eyeing the TMs.

Ashley nodded. “Yup. Erika’s next on my list.”

The clerk grinned. “Good luck with that. Grass-types are tricky, but it looks like you’ve got a solid team.”

“Thanks,” Ashley said, glancing down at her Pokémon. “They’re the best.”

As they stepped back out onto the busy streets of Celadon, Ashley slung her bag over her shoulder, the weight of her new purchases giving her an extra boost of confidence.

“Alright, team,” she said, tilting her head toward the Pokémon Center in the distance. “Let’s rest up and get ready for tomorrow. Erika’s not gonna know what hit her.”

Venus hopped back onto her shoulder, her new scarf fluttering in the breeze, while Vulcan let out a sharp bark and fell into step beside them.

Ashley grinned. Gym battles, contests, training—whatever came next, they were ready for it. And with her growing team and arsenal of moves, Ashley felt like she was finally starting to hit her stride. A stride that was interrupted when she smelled the most delicious scent in her life. She stopped, and almost glued her face to the glass window.

It was a perfume shop!

Ashley did not even need Venus’ encouragement, she pushed open the glass door of the perfume shop, a soft chime ringing out as she stepped inside. The moment the scent hit her, she knew she wasn’t leaving empty-handed. The air was thick with floral and fruity aromas, mingling with hints of vanilla and lavender. Even Vulcan, who usually had zero interest in anything that didn’t involve fire or food, perked up and sniffed the air curiously. Venus, on the other hand, was practically vibrating with excitement, hopping off Ashley’s shoulder and landing lightly on the polished tile floor.

“Easy there,” Ashley whispered, scooping her up before she could bolt toward a display of delicate glass bottles. “No knocking anything over, princess.”

Venus huffed, but Ashley gave her a reassuring scratch under the chin before turning her attention to the shelves.

Rows of perfume bottles glimmered under soft lighting, their elegant shapes and pastel colors reflecting on the glass countertops. Ashley wandered past a section labeled Floral Fantasy before stopping at one marked Sweet Indulgence. A small tester bottle with a golden ribbon around its neck caught her eye. She picked it up, gave it a light spray on her wrist, and inhaled deeply.

“Oh, wow,” she murmured, her lips curling into a grin. “Vanilla and… caramel?”

Vulcan barked, clearly approving, and Venus chirped as if demanding her turn to smell it. Ashley bent down and held her wrist closer.

“What do you think?” she asked.

Venus’ nose twitched rapidly before she rubbed her cheek against Ashley’s wrist, clearly sold.

“Well, that settles it,” Ashley said, placing the bottle on the counter with a determined nod. “We’re getting this one.”

The shopkeeper, an older woman with short lavender hair and a warm smile, stepped forward. “Good choice, dear. That one’s very popular.” She glanced at Ashley’s Pokémon. “And it seems like your little friends approve.”

Ashley laughed. “They have good taste.”

But just as she was about to pay, her gaze wandered to a side shelf filled with grooming kits. Brushes, sprays, shampoos, and conditioners—all designed with Pokémon in mind. Her fingers twitched. Proserpina’s petals could definitely use a polish after all that poison training, and Neptune’s smooth shell could probably shine brighter with the right wax.

“Hold on,” Ashley muttered, stepping over to inspect the kits. Vulcan padded after her, his nose already buried in a bag labeled Fire-Type Fur Essentials.

“Alright, let’s see…” Ashley muttered, pulling items off the shelf. She grabbed a berry-scented polish spray for Proserpina’s petals and a soft-bristled brush for Vulcan’s thick coat. Then she spotted a waterproof shell-care set and tossed it into her basket with Neptune in mind.

“Don’t think I forgot about you,” she said, tapping Venus’ nose playfully before picking up a silky conditioner made for normal types. “We’re getting this too. Can’t have you looking anything less than perfect in your next contest.”

Venus preened at the attention, her fluffy tail swishing.

By the time Ashley made it back to the counter, her basket was overflowing. The shopkeeper raised an eyebrow but didn’t comment, instead ringing up the total with an amused smile.

“Looks like someone’s spoiling their Pokémon,” she said, carefully wrapping the perfume bottle and placing the grooming products in a separate bag.

Ashley grinned, handing over her payment. “They’ve earned it. Trust me.”

Once the transaction was complete, Ashley blinked in surprise as the elegant Gym Leader stepped closer, her green kimono swaying gently with each step. Erika’s serene expression contrasted sharply with the bright colors and bold scents of the shop, but there was an unmistakable warmth in her smile.

“Thank you so much for your support,” Erika said softly, clasping her hands together in front of her. “It’s always wonderful to see trainers who care for their Pokémon as much as you clearly do.” Her eyes flickered toward the bags Ashley held, overflowing with grooming supplies.

Ashley grinned, shifting the weight of the bags. “Well, they work hard. They deserve a little spoiling now and then.”

“I couldn’t agree more,” Erika replied, her voice calm but genuine. Then her gaze sharpened slightly, and a knowing glint crossed her features. “Although… I had a feeling it was you when you walked in.”

Ashley blinked. “Me?”

Erika nodded. “Blaine mentioned you. And Koga. It’s not every day two Gym Leaders speak so highly of the same trainer.”

Ashley’s cheeks warmed, and she laughed nervously, scratching the back of her neck. “Wow, uh, no pressure or anything, right?”

“None at all,” Erika said, though her small smile suggested otherwise. Then her expression shifted, more thoughtful now, as she gestured for Ashley to follow her toward the back of the store. “Actually, since you’re here… I think there’s something you might find useful.”

Ashley glanced at Vulcan, who was already padding after Erika like she’d offered him a treat. Venus squeaked from her perch on Ashley’s shoulder, clearly just as curious.

“Okay,” Ashley said, stepping after her. “I’m listening.”

Erika led them to a quieter corner of the store where a glass case displayed an assortment of delicate bottles, each smaller than the palm of Ashley’s hand. Unlike the flashy, colorful perfumes out front, these were sleek and understated—black glass with subtle etchings.

“These aren’t on display for just anyone,” Erika explained, unlocking the case and carefully removing one of the bottles. “This is something I only share with trusted customers—trainers who understand the importance of subtlety and preparation.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow. “I feel like I’m about to join a secret club or something.”

Erika laughed softly. “In a way, you are. This perfume—” She held up the bottle, tilting it so the light reflected faintly off its smooth surface. “—erases scents completely.”

Ashley blinked. “Wait. What?”

Erika nodded. “It’s a blend I developed specifically for trainers who deal with Poison-types—or anyone who needs to move unnoticed. Strong Pokémon like Gloom, Vileplume, or Weezing tend to leave traces of their toxins behind. It makes them easy to track, even when they’re trying to hide.”

Ashley’s eyes widened. “That… actually makes a lot of sense.”

“Koga thought so too.” Erika put the bottle gently in Ashley’s hand. “In fact, he specifically asked me to add you to my list of trusted clients. He said you’d need every advantage you could get while training under him.”

Ashley’s jaw nearly dropped. “Wait, Koga did that? And you’re just—giving this to me?”

“Selling it,” Erika corrected with a playful smile. “But only because I think you’ll actually put it to good use.”

Ashley stared down at the sleek little bottle in her hand, feeling its weight in more ways than one. She couldn’t help but grin. “I have to admit, I didn’t see myself walking out of here with stealth gear, but this? This is awesome.”

Erika’s expression softened. “I’m glad you think so. It’s a rare item, so use it wisely. A little goes a long way.”

Ashley nodded firmly, tucking the bottle into her bag like it was a treasure. “You can count on it.”

“Good.” Erika stepped back, folding her hands again. “Now, don’t keep me waiting too long for our battle. I look forward to seeing how you—and Proserpina—handle my Grass-types.”

Ashley stiffened at the mention of Proserpina, then grinned. “You’ll see. We’ve been training like crazy, and I think we’ve got more than a few surprises up our sleeves.”

Erika chuckled. “I’m sure you do. I’ll be ready.”

Ashley turned to leave, but not before pausing at the door to glance back. “Thanks again—for everything.”

“You’re welcome,” Erika said warmly. “And good luck, Ashley.”

With that, Ashley stepped out of the store, her head still spinning from the unexpected encounter. Vulcan barked beside her, tail wagging, and Venus wiggled excitedly on her shoulder, clearly sensing her trainer’s mood.

“Okay, guys,” Ashley said, clutching her bag tightly. “We’ve got some serious prep work to do if we’re going to impress Erika. But first—let’s go celebrate. I think we earned it.”

Venus chirped in agreement, and Vulcan let out a happy bark as they trotted down the street together, the sunlight glinting off the perfume shop’s windows behind them.  

Ashley slung the bags over her shoulder and stepped back out into the bustling streets of Celadon. The vanilla scent lingered on her wrist, and Vulcan walked with an extra pep in his step, clearly proud of the new brush tucked away in her bag.

By the time they reached the Pokémon Center, Ashley’s arms ached, but her spirits were high. She dropped the bags onto the bed in her rented room, one at the ground floor with a balcony that allowed her to be able to release her larger Pokémon, and began sorting through them, pulling out the grooming kits and setting them in a neat row.

“Alright,” she said, clapping her hands and looking at her Pokémon, who were now all out of their Poké Balls and gathered around her. “Tonight, we’re having a spa night. Everyone’s getting cleaned up and pampered, no exceptions.”

Mars flicked his tail flame, looking skeptical but resigned, while Proserpina hummed in approval, already swaying happily at the thought of a polish.

Ashley gave Neptune’s shell a tap, the smooth surface cool beneath her fingertips. “You’re up first, big guy.”

Neptune let out a melodic cry, bobbing his head as if to say, bring it on. Ashley grinned and grabbed the shell-care set, stepping out onto the small balcony connected to her room. The evening air was crisp but calm, and the distant hum of Celadon City’s nightlife buzzed softly below. She knelt beside Neptune, running her fingers lightly along the ridges of his shell, inspecting every curve and groove.

“Alright, let’s get this shiny enough to blind someone,” she teased, popping open a jar of polish and grabbing a soft cloth. Neptune let out a contented hum, closing his eyes as Ashley started working in smooth, circular motions.

She took her time, making sure to buff every inch of the shell until it gleamed under the fading sunlight. The blue surface caught the light, reflecting a faint rainbow sheen as Ashley tilted her head, admiring her work. “You’re basically a mirror now,” she said, tapping the shell lightly. “One hit with Ice Beam and Erika’s team is gonna freeze out of pure awe.”

Neptune chirped proudly, lifting his head before Ashley gave him one last swipe with the cloth.

“Vulcan, you’re next,” Ashley called, turning back toward the room and holding up the fire-type brush. “I better not find any knots in that coat.”

Vulcan’s ears perked up, and he let out a bark, his tail wagging so hard it practically blurred. He bounded over and plopped down right in front of her, stretching his legs out and flopping onto his stomach like he’d been waiting for this moment all day.

“Drama queen,” Ashley muttered fondly, kneeling beside him. She ran the brush through his thick fur, working slowly to smooth out any tangles she found. Vulcan huffed in delight, his eyes slipping half-closed as Ashley scratched gently behind his ears.

“Not so tough now, are you?” Ashley teased as Vulcan let out a low groan, practically melting into her hands. She laughed softly and kept brushing, marveling at how the reddish-orange fur seemed to glow under the light. When she was done, Vulcan looked like he’d just walked out of a grooming salon—sleek, polished, and ready for battle.

Proserpina was next. The Gloom swayed her petals expectantly as Ashley reached for the polishing cloths, her petals already faintly glowing from their recent training. Ashley sat cross-legged, gently tilting Proserpina’s flower-like top to catch the light.

“Okay, girl,” Ashley murmured, carefully wiping each petal until it gleamed. “You’re already pretty, but Erika’s team needs to know you’re deadly too.”

Proserpina hummed softly, clearly enjoying the attention, especially when Ashley finished and lightly misted her leaves with a fine spray of water to keep them hydrated and glossy.

Venus bounced over last, practically vibrating with excitement as she pawed at Ashley’s knee. Her fur already looked soft, but Ashley couldn’t resist adding a bit of extra shine.

“Alright, your turn, princess.” Ashley picked up the brush, and Venus immediately flopped onto her back, paws up, ready to be pampered.

“You’re ridiculous,” Ashley laughed, brushing through Venus’s fur with short, gentle strokes. The Eevee preened under the attention, her tail flicking as Ashley smoothed out her coat and fluffed up her mane. Ashley finished by adjusting the pale blue scarf Venus had picked out, making sure it sat perfectly before tying it in a neat knot.

“Now you’re unstoppable,” Ashley said, stepping back and admiring her work. Venus gave a happy chirp, spinning in a circle to show off her look.

Ashley wiped sweat off her brow but wasn’t done yet. She turned to Mars, her Charmeleon, who had been watching with an air of impatience, arms crossed and tail flame flickering brightly.

“Alright, tough guy, you’re up,” she said, holding up a tougher brush meant for scales.

Mars snorted but stepped forward, plopping down and crossing his arms again like this was purely a formality. Ashley smirked, running the brush over his crimson scales.

“You act like you’re above this,” Ashley teased, carefully polishing the dull edges of his scales until they gleamed. “But I see that tail wagging, mister.”

Mars flicked his tail to the side, but his eyes slid shut as Ashley worked, brushing down his back and arms, polishing his claws and smoothing out the fine scales along his tail.

“See? Even Gods of War need to look good,” Ashley said, carefully running the brush over his horns.

Mars huffed, clearly trying to look aloof, but Ashley caught his tail flicking contentedly. By the time she was done, his scales glistened under the lights, and his tail flame burned even brighter.

Finally, Apollo slithered over, the Dratini’s sleek body practically glowing already. Ashley arched a brow. “You’re trying to show me up, huh?”

Apollo chirped and flicked his tail, coiling beside her.

“Fine, fine. But I’m still giving you the spa treatment,” Ashley said, pulling out a smaller polishing cloth. She carefully ran it along Apollo’s scales, smoothing out any imperfections and adding extra shine.

Apollo stretched out under her touch, letting out soft trills as Ashley gently buffed his head and polished the gem-like scale above his eyes.

“There, all set,” Ashley said, admiring how Apollo practically sparkled.

Ashley stretched, her arms and shoulders sore from the effort, but the sight of her team looking polished and battle-ready made it worth it. She flopped onto the bed, arms spread wide.

“Okay, that was more work than training,” she said, her voice muffled by the pillow. “But look at you, guys. You’re ready to take on the world.”

Venus hopped onto her stomach, curling up with a satisfied hum while Vulcan sprawled out beside her, resting his head on her knee like a guard dog.

Ashley smiled softly, reaching down to scratch Vulcan’s head as her eyelids grew heavy. She let her head sink into the pillow, surrounded by the gentle sounds of her team settling down for the night. Proserpina swayed slightly near the corner, Neptune tucked comfortably in his shell by the balcony, and Venus’s tail twitched faintly in her sleep.

Ashley’s breathing slowed as she let herself drift off, already dreaming of victory and the bright, glimmering Rainbow Badge waiting at the end of her battle.

Chapter Text

Ashley was riding high on her recent victories, practically buzzing with confidence as she strolled through the bustling streets of Celadon City. Two badges, one ribbon, and a team that was sharper and stronger than ever. She felt like she could take on the world—or at least Erika in the gym. But then, as she passed a colorful poster advertising the upcoming Celadon City Contest, she stopped dead in her tracks.

A grin spread across her face. “Another contest? Oh, I’m in.”

Venus, perched on her shoulder, chirped in excitement, while Vulcan trotted up beside her, his tail wagging like crazy. He glanced up at her with a look that practically screamed, You’re seriously doing this again?

Ashley crouched down, holding the poster at Vulcan’s eye level. “Don’t look at me like that. You’re gonna love it,” she said with a sly grin. “Because this time, you’re up.”

Vulcan barked, clearly taken aback, before puffing out his chest. Venus gave a teasing chirp, flicking her tail as she hopped down to stand beside Vulcan, looking smug as usual.

“Easy there, princess. You’re sitting this one out,” Ashley said, ruffling Venus’s fur. The Eevee gave a mock pout but didn’t argue, clearly satisfied with her previous win.

Ashley folded the poster and slipped it into her bag, her mind already racing with plans. “Okay, so this contest has different rules. One Pokémon for the appeal round and another for the battle round.” She stood, her hands on her hips as she glanced at Vulcan and Mars, who had just wandered over from his spot in the shade. “I’m thinking we keep it classic. Fire on fire. Vulcan, you’ve got the appeal round. Mars, you’re gonna handle the battles.”

Mars tilted his head, his arms crossed in a way that said you expect me to do what now?

“Don’t give me that look,” Ashley said, pointing at him. “You’ve got the power and the moves. Plus, you love a good fight. Don’t even pretend you don’t.”

Mars snorted; he did not look convinced but didn’t argue.

Ashley knelt, scratching Vulcan behind the ears. “And you, mister, are going to charm the socks off everyone in that appeal round. You’ve got the style, you’ve got the speed, and you’ve definitely got the cute factor.”

Vulcan barked in agreement, his tail wagging so hard it was practically a blur.

Ashley stood, brushing the dust off her knees. “Alright, team, we’ve got work to do. First stop: the Pokémon Center to sign up.”

At the Pokémon Center, Nurse Joy greeted her with a warm smile as Ashley slid her Trainer ID across the counter. “Back so soon?”

Ashley grinned. “You know it. I’m here to sign up for the contest.”

Nurse Joy’s eyes lit up. “Ah, the Celadon Contest. It’s going to be a big one this time. Have you decided which Pokémon you’ll use?”

“Yup,” Ashley said confidently. “Vulcan for the appeal round and Mars for the battle round.”

“Great choices,” Nurse Joy said, typing something into her computer. “Both Fire-types, right? That’ll definitely stand out.”

“That’s the plan,” Ashley said with a wink, leaning on the counter. “We’re bringing the heat—literally.”

After finishing the registration, Ashley made her way to the training grounds behind the Center, her Pokémon trotting close behind.

“Alright, let’s start with you, Vulcan,” Ashley said, tossing a ball for him to chase. He caught it mid-air, returning with a bounce in his step.

Ashley paced back and forth on the practice field just outside the Pokémon Center, her sneakers crunching against the gravel as she waved her hands animatedly. Her Growlithe, Vulcan, sat a few feet away, his orange tail swishing eagerly in the cool breeze.

“For the appeal round, we’re going big—flashy, fiery, and unforgettable,” Ashley said, spinning on her heel to point at Vulcan. “We start with Fire Spin. Not just any Fire Spin, though. I want a huge one. I’m talking a spiraling column of flames that looks like it’s gonna reach the stars! Something so dramatic, even people in the cheap seats are like, ‘Whoa, now that’s showbiz!’”

Vulcan let out a sharp bark, his tails agging furiously as he crouched low, eyes gleaming with excitement.

“Good boy, I knew you’d be on board,” Ashley said, grinning as she knelt to his level and scratched behind his ears. “But we’re not stopping there. Once you’ve got that Fire Spin roaring, we’ll add some Swift. You know, the sparkles—golden stars flying everywhere, lighting up the flames. Like, bam! Instant pizzazz!”

She stood again, clapping her hands together for emphasis. “And here’s the kicker—the grand finale. We combine them. Flaming stars bursting out of the Fire Spin, shooting into the sky and exploding into red fireworks. Like a meteor shower on fire. You get what I’m saying, right?”

Vulcan barked again, louder this time, and crouched even lower, his small body quivering with energy.

Ashley laughed, crossing her arms and stepping back to give him room. “Alright, alright, I see you’re ready to strut your stuff. Let’s do this. Show me what you’ve got, Vulcan!”

The little Growlithe sprang into action, his paws kicking up tiny puffs of dirt as he dashed forward. His mouth opened, and with a sharp inhale, he unleashed a swirling vortex of flames. The fiery spiral grew quickly, twisting upward like a living flame tower, its light casting flickering shadows across the ground.

“Yeah! That’s it!” Ashley cheered, pumping her fist. “Keep it tight, make it spin faster!”

Vulcan concentrated, his eyes narrowing as the column of fire tightened, the flames spinning so fast they began to emit a low whooshing sound.

“Perfect!” Ashley called. “Now, Swift! Give me the sparkle!”

Vulcan barked again, jumping slightly as golden stars erupted from his mouth, weaving into the Fire Spin. The stars darted through the flames, their light shimmering and refracting in the heat, making the entire display look like a molten disco ball.

Ashley clapped her hands together, practically bouncing on her toes. “Yes! That’s it, Vulcan! Now, for the finale—combine them!”

With a sharp growl, Vulcan focused, the stars in the Fire Spin glowing brighter as they began to break free from the spiral. One by one, the flaming stars shot upward, trailing smoke and light behind them before exploding in bursts of red fire high above. The sky lit up with brilliant, fiery blooms, the pops and crackles echoing across the field.

Ashley threw her arms in the air, letting out an excited laugh. “That’s what I’m talking about! Vulcan, you’re a genius!”

Vulcan trotted back to her, panting but clearly proud of himself. Ashley crouched down, scooping him into her arms. “You nailed it, buddy. They won’t know what hit ’em at the appeal round. We’re taking this one by storm—or, y’know, by fire!”

Vulcan let out a contented yip, snuggling into her arms as Ashley spun around, already imagining the stunned faces in the crowd when they pulled off their fiery spectacle.

Next up was Mars. Ashley put Vulcan down and then crossed her arms as she watched Mars stretch, his tail flame flickering brighter with each movement.

“Alright, big guy. For the battle round, we’re going for raw power and precision. I want you to start with Smokescreen to disorient your opponent, then follow up with Fire Spin to trap them. After that, we’ll hit them with Dragon Rush to finish it off. Think you can handle that?”

Mars snorted, rolling his shoulders before giving her a confident nod.

Ashley grinned. “That’s what I like to hear. Let’s see it.”

Mars leapt into action, releasing a thick cloud of smoke that quickly engulfed the area. Ashley could barely make out his silhouette as he released a spiraling Fire Spin, the flames cutting through the smoke like a beacon.

“Dragon Rush!” Ashley shouted, her voice sharp.

The smoke parted as Mars shot forward, his body glowing with a faint blue aura. The Dragon Rush was fast and fierce, the impact sending a shockwave through the training grounds. Ashley shielded her eyes as the dust settled, revealing Mars standing tall, his tail flame burning brightly.

“Now that’s what I call a showstopper,” Ashley said, her voice filled with pride.

Mars gave her a smug look, crossing his arms as if to say, what else did you expect?

Ashley laughed, walking over to scratch under his chin. “Alright, you win. You’re amazing.”

She glanced at her team, all of them looking fired up and ready. “Tomorrow, we’re taking that stage, and we’re going to blow them away.”

The following day, Ashley sat on a bench just outside the contest hall, her head resting in her hands as the noise of the bustling Celadon streets buzzed faintly in the background. Venus curled up on her lap, purring softly as if trying to comfort her, while Vulcan lay sprawled at her feet, his fur still shimmering faintly from his stunning performance in the appeal round. But her thoughts weren’t on them. They were on Mars.

“Ugh,” Ashley groaned, leaning back and letting her arms flop to her sides. “What was that, Mars?”

The Charmeleon stood a few feet away, leaning against a nearby tree, his arms crossed and his tail flame flickering with visible annoyance. He wasn’t even looking at her, his gaze fixed stubbornly on the horizon. Ashley sighed, shaking her head as she rubbed her temples.

“It wasn’t supposed to go like that,” she muttered to herself, her voice tinged with frustration. She glanced down at Venus, who blinked up at her with an understanding look, then shifted her gaze to Vulcan. “Your appeal was amazing, buddy. You were perfect. But Mars…” Her words trailed off as her mind replayed the disaster that had been the battle round.

She had walked into the battle round feeling good—no, great. Vulcan’s appeal had been a showstopper, earning high marks from the judges and enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. When it came time for Mars to take the stage, Ashley had felt confident. Sure, Mars wasn’t as eager to participate in contests as Vulcan, but he had power, and power could be refined into something breathtaking.

At least, that was the plan.

The moment Mars stepped onto the battlefield, Ashley knew something was off. His posture was stiff, his expression more irritated than determined. She had tried to hype him up, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. “Alright, Mars! Let’s show them what we’ve got!”

But Mars had just snorted, barely glancing back at her before stomping into position. The other coordinator, a boy with a Kadabra, smirked as the battle began.

Ashley’s strategy had been simple: highlight Mars’s power and agility while showing off his precision and control. It was supposed to be a dazzling display of Smokescreen, Fire Spin, and Dragon Rush, each move flowing seamlessly into the next to keep the opponent guessing while keeping the judges impressed.

What she got instead was… chaos.

“Smokescreen!” Ashley had called, hoping to start with an air of mystery. Mars had obeyed, releasing a thick, dark cloud that enveloped the field. It was a strong start—almost too strong. The Smokescreen was so dense that it obscured everything, including Mars himself. The audience murmured, some impressed, others confused.

“Okay, now Fire Spin to light it up!” Ashley commanded, trying to steer things back on course.

Mars’s tail flame flared as he unleashed a massive spiral of fire. It cut through the smoke, burning away some of the darkness and creating a striking visual effect. But instead of using the move to trap the Kadabra or create a controlled display, Mars had poured everything into raw power. The Fire Spin roared to life like a wild blaze, shooting high into the air before spiraling out of control.

“Mars! Pull it back!” Ashley had shouted, her voice tinged with panic.

But Mars wasn’t listening. He was locked onto the Kadabra, who dodged the unruly flames with ease, countering with a dazzling Psybeam that cut through the chaos like a knife. The audience gasped at the precision of the psychic attack, and Ashley felt her heart sink.

She tried to redirect. “Okay, Dragon Rush! Let’s bring it home!”

Mars roared, charging forward with a burst of blue energy surrounding him. The Dragon Rush was powerful, explosive—but it wasn’t what a contest needed. It was a gym battle move, pure and simple, designed to overwhelm and knock out the opponent. There was no finesse, no flair, just brute force. Kadabra teleported out of the way, reappearing behind Mars and landing a Confusion that sent him stumbling.

The judges’ scores reflected the disorganization. Points dropped with each misstep, and Ashley could only watch helplessly as the gap widened. By the time the round ended, it was clear they had lost.

Ashley groaned again, pulling herself back to the present. She could not believe she had gone from winning her first contest to losing on the first round of the battle stage! She glanced over at Mars, who was still pointedly ignoring her.

Ashley sighed, her heart weighed down like a boulder she couldn’t shake. “Let’s head back to the Pokémon Center. It’s been a long day.” Her voice was barely audible, more to herself than anyone else.

As she returned her Pokémon to their Poké Balls, a pang of guilt shot through her. Proserpina had tried her best, and her whole team had supported her without hesitation, yet here she was, too drained to face them. It wasn’t fair, but she couldn’t help it. She needed time to think—alone.

Walking into the Pokémon Center, the familiar warmth and hum of activity were muted. Nurse Joy wasn’t at her usual post; instead, a single Chansey manned the desk. The Pokémon gave her a cheerful wave, but Ashley only managed a weak smile in return. “Guess Nurse Joy’s still at the Contest Hall,” she murmured, her voice sounding hollow even to her own ears.

She trudged down the quiet hallway, the sound of her sneakers on the tile echoing faintly, and unlocked the door to her room. The moment she stepped inside, the silence hit her like a wave. There were no chirps, barks, or the usual scuffles of her team getting comfortable. Just the soft hum of the air conditioner and the faint creak of the bed when she sat on its edge. Her Pokémon’s Poké Balls sat lined up on the nightstand, glowing faintly in the dim light. They looked peaceful, but it only added to the emptiness she felt.

“I’m sorry, guys,” she whispered, though no one could hear her. With a sigh, she grabbed her towel and headed for the bathroom.

The hot water of the shower was soothing, though it couldn’t wash away the ache in her chest. She stood there longer than usual, letting the water cascade over her as she stared at the tiles, her thoughts swirling. It wasn’t just the loss that stung—it was the sense that she’d let her team down by not being better, by not thinking ahead.

When she finally emerged, steam trailing behind her, she felt lighter physically but just as weighed down emotionally. Her damp hair was wrapped in a towel draped over her shoulder, stray strands sticking to her cheeks. She slipped into her favorite comfort pajamas—soft, pastel shorts with little Poké Ball patterns and an oversized shirt that read “Trainer in Training” in bold, cheerful letters. She’d packed them at the start of her journey, thinking they’d make her feel confident, like she was working toward something great. Now, they just felt like a cruel joke, the words mocking her as she caught her reflection in the mirror.

She sat back down on the edge of the bed, staring at the Poké Balls again. Usually, she’d have her team out, the room buzzing with life as Mars and Vulcan play-wrestled, Apollo hummed softly to himself, and Venus curled up in her lap. But tonight, the stillness pressed down on her like a heavy blanket.

She reached for the remote and turned on the small TV mounted on the wall, flipping through channels aimlessly. Contests, battles, news—it all felt too close to home. She settled on a nature documentary about the rare migration patterns of Lapras. Neptune would’ve loved it, but watching it alone felt hollow. She turned it off after a few minutes and let the silence return.

Leaning back against the wall, she pulled the thick comforter up to her chin, tucking herself into its warmth as if it could block out the sinking feeling in her chest. She rested her cheek against her bent knees, her eyes staring blankly at the softly glowing lamp on the bedside table. Her fingers fidgeted with the edge of the blanket, twisting the fabric as her thoughts churned.

This was her first real loss—a true, stinging defeat. The kind that didn’t come with a “good effort” pat on the back or an encouraging pep talk. She could feel it in every fiber of her being, the weight of it pressing down on her shoulders like a boulder she couldn’t shake.

Ashley had wanted to hold it together, to push through like she always did. But the silence was heavy, and when she finally let out a long, shaky breath, her chest tightened, and her vision blurred.

Why did this feel so awful?

“It’s not like I haven’t messed up before,” she muttered to herself, her voice cracking. “But this—this was different.”

Her words hung in the air, unanswered, and she felt a single tear escape down her cheek. She swiped at it quickly, as if denying it could stop the flood threatening to break loose. But it didn’t work. The tears came anyway, quietly at first, sliding down her cheeks as she buried her face in her arms.

She replayed the contest in her head, every misstep and miscommunication between her and Mars. She had thought she could convince him, guide him, make him see the bigger picture. But instead, it had felt like they were on two completely different wavelengths, clashing instead of working together.

“I pushed him too hard,” she whispered, her voice muffled against the blanket. “I wanted him to be something he’s not, and it’s my fault it all went wrong.”

Another tear slipped out, followed by another, and soon she couldn’t stop them. The frustration, the guilt, the disappointment—it all came pouring out in hot, silent sobs that shook her shoulders. She hated feeling this way. Hated how losing had stripped away her confidence, leaving her doubting herself for the first time since she’d set out on this journey.

Her mind drifted to her team. Vulcan, who had given his all during the appeal round, so eager to shine and make her proud. Venus, who had watched the battle unfold with her wide, curious eyes, clearly confused by the tension between Ashley and Mars. And Mars…

Ashley wiped her face with the edge of her sleeve, sniffling as she thought about her Charmeleon. She had seen the frustration in his eyes after the contest, the way he had turned away from her at first. But she had also seen the faint glimmer of understanding when they’d finally talked. He wasn’t angry, not really. He just wasn’t built for contests, and she needed to accept that.

“He’s a battler,” she said softly, her voice steadier now. “And I need to let him be that.”

She sighed, leaning her head back against the wall and staring up at the ceiling. The tears had slowed, leaving her with a dull ache in her chest but also a strange sense of clarity. She looked over at the Poké Balls on the nightstand, her fingers twitching with the urge to call them out, to hold them close and apologize. But she stopped herself. They deserved to rest after the long day, just like she did.

Instead, she reached for her PokéNav, scrolling through the pictures she had taken during the day. There was one of Venus with her silk scarf, looking ridiculously proud. Another photo of Vulcan mid-spin, his fire trailing behind him like a comet. And then there was Mars, his expression as stubborn and determined as ever.

Ashley smiled faintly, her heart feeling just a little lighter. “We’ll get there,” she murmured, snuggling deeper into the blanket.

Ashley’s PokéNav buzzed in her hand, startling her. She sniffled, wiping her face quickly with the edge of her pajama sleeve. The last thing she wanted was anyone seeing her like this. But when she glanced at the caller ID, her heart sank and warmed all at once—it was her mom and dad.

“Great,” she muttered under her breath, half-laughing and half-sighing as she reached for the device. She forced a smile as she answered, but the attempt was flimsy at best, her lips twitching as they tried to hold their shape.

Her mom’s face appeared first, her warm eyes instantly narrowing with concern. Her dad was right behind her, leaning into the frame. “Sweetheart,” her mom said gently, her tone immediately cutting through the quiet like a hug in word form. “What’s wrong?”

Ashley shook her head, trying to wave it off, but the motion only made her tear-streaked cheeks more obvious. “Nothing! I’m fine. Really.” Her voice cracked on the last word, and she winced, quickly lowering her eyes. “I’m just—ugh—I’m a mess.”

Her dad frowned, leaning closer to the screen. “Kiddo, we just watched the contest. You were great.”

Ashley’s pout deepened, her lips pressing into a tight line. “I lost,” she said flatly, the words heavy on her tongue.

Her mom leaned back slightly, her brow furrowing as if weighing her response carefully. “Ashley,” she said softly, her voice steady, “losing doesn’t mean you weren’t great.”

Ashley blinked, her grip tightening on the PokéNav. “Doesn’t feel that way,” she muttered, her shoulders slumping under the weight of her emotions. “Mars didn’t even want to be there, and I couldn’t figure out how to work with him. I messed up. I’m supposed to be his trainer, but—”

“Stop,” her dad interjected, his tone firm but kind. “First of all, no one becomes a perfect trainer overnight. Second of all…” He trailed off, glancing at Ashley’s mom as if asking for backup.

Her mom smiled faintly, tilting her head. “Second of all, you’ve been a trainer for what—two months now?”

“Three,” Ashley corrected quietly.

“Three,” her mom repeated, nodding. “And in those three months, you’ve earned two gym badges and a contest ribbon. Do you know how impressive that is? Do you know how proud we are of you?”

Ashley sniffled, her fingers twisting the edge of the blanket. “You’re just saying that.”

“No, we’re not,” her dad said firmly, his voice rising just enough to catch her attention. “Ashley, part of being a trainer is losing. Even the best trainers lose. What matters is what you do after.”

Her mom chimed in, her expression softening. “You’ve always been good at that, Ash. You fall down, but you get right back up. Remember when you lost that swimming race in fourth grade? You spent the whole next summer practicing until you could beat everyone in your class.”

Ashley couldn’t help but crack a small smile at the memory. “Yeah, but this is different. Mars… he didn’t trust me out there. And I don’t blame him. I pushed him into something he didn’t want to do.”

“That’s part of learning too,” her mom said gently. “Figuring out what works for your team. It’s not just about battles or contests—it’s about building trust. And sometimes, that takes time.”

Her dad nodded. “And hey, Mars is a Charmeleon now. He’s probably trying to figure himself out too. You’ll get there, Ash. Just don’t give up on him—or yourself.”

Ashley swallowed hard, her chest tight as she processed their words. They weren’t wrong, but it didn’t make the sting of the loss any easier. Still, hearing their voices, their unwavering belief in her, was like a balm to her bruised confidence.

“I guess you’re right,” she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper.

“We’re always right,” her dad said with a grin, earning a playful nudge from her mom.

Ashley sat up straighter on the bed, her comforter pooling around her waist as her dad’s words sank in. On the screen, his face was serious, but there was a flicker of gentleness in his tone.

“I know it’s hard, kiddo,” her dad continued, leaning closer to the camera. “Part of being a trainer is pushing your Pokémon to be better, to grow stronger. But there’s a difference between challenging them and forcing them into something they don’t believe in. Mars didn’t look happy out there, and honestly, neither did you.”

Ashley’s fingers fidgeted with the edge of her pajama sleeve. She felt her cheeks heat as guilt crept up her spine. “I… I just thought it would be good for him, you know? Like, learning contest moves could make him unpredictable in battles. I wasn’t trying to make him miserable.” Her voice cracked slightly at the end, and she looked away from the screen, embarrassed.

Her mom’s voice chimed in, softer but no less firm. “Honey, no one’s saying you meant to hurt him. But Mars is your partner. He trusts you to guide him, and that means listening to him, too. You can’t lead a Pokémon who doesn’t believe you understand them.”

Ashley glanced back at the screen, her heart sinking. “I know. I messed up.” She let out a long sigh, her shoulders slumping as the weight of the realization hit her. “He was upset even before the battle started. I should’ve noticed. Heck, I noticed! I just thought I knew better!”

“You’re noticing now,” her dad pointed out. “That’s what matters. You’ve got to make it right, Ash. Talk to him. Show him that you understand where he’s coming from.”

Ashley nodded, her resolve hardening. “I will,” she said firmly. “Tomorrow, I’ll talk to Mars first thing. I’ll fix this.”

Her mom smiled, her expression warm and encouraging. “Good. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes, Ashley. That’s how you learn. What matters is how you grow from them.”

Her dad chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Sounds like we’ve got this covered, huh? Just don’t make a habit of it, kiddo. Your mom’s not the only one who wants to see you do your best.”

Ashley managed a small laugh, some of the tension in her chest easing. “Thanks, you guys. Really. I needed this.”

“That’s what we’re here for,” her mom said with a wink. “Now, go get some rest, sweetheart. You’ve got a big day tomorrow.”

Her dad nodded. “And don’t forget to apologize to Mars properly. Pokémon can hold grudges, you know.”

Ashley smiled faintly, her voice soft but genuine. “I won’t forget. Night, guys.”

“Goodnight, Ashley,” they said in unison before the screen went dark.

Ashley set the PokéNav down on the nightstand and leaned back against the pillows, exhaling deeply. Her parents were right. She couldn’t ignore this. Mars was her partner, and she owed him better than what she’d given him today.

The thought of facing him tomorrow made her stomach twist with nerves, but she knew it had to be done. If she wanted to be the kind of trainer her Pokémon deserved, she had to start by owning up to her mistakes.

Pulling the comforter back over herself, Ashley closed her eyes, her determination settling into a steady rhythm with her heartbeat. Tomorrow, she would make things right.

Ashley stirred awake with the soft glow of the early morning sun filtering through her window. The familiar hum of the Pokémon Center’s bustling morning routine buzzed faintly beyond her door, but the quiet stillness of her room made the perfect cocoon for waking up. Stretching her arms above her head, she felt the tension from yesterday melt away. Today was a new day, and she was ready to face it.

Sliding out of bed, she padded over to the small desk by the window and grabbed her brush. As she ran it through her hair, she decided on something different. “Let’s try a braid today,” she murmured to herself, her fingers deftly weaving her hair into a neat plait. Once it was secured, she gave herself a quick glance in the mirror. The braid made her look a bit more serious, more determined. Fitting.

Dressed in her usual comfortable trainer gear, Ashley grabbed her bag and slung it over her shoulder before heading out. Her footsteps echoed faintly as she walked down the hall toward the cafeteria. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling pancakes greeted her as she stepped inside. Trainers and their Pokémon were scattered across the room, chatting and laughing over their meals.

Ashley made a beeline for the counter, scanning the menu for something special. “The premium breakfast platter, please,” she said with a smile, sliding her Trainer ID across the counter. She tapped her foot as the attendant prepared the order, her thoughts drifting to her team.

As the tray was placed in front of her, her smile widened. The premium breakfast was no joke: golden pancakes stacked high with whipped cream, fresh berries, and syrup; perfectly cooked eggs; crispy strips of bacon; and a variety of Poké Puffs arranged artfully on the side. It wasn’t just food—it was an apology in edible form.

Balancing the tray carefully, Ashley made her way out of the Pokémon Center and into the backyard. She found a quiet corner of the cafeteria and set everything up. One by one, she released her team. Out behind the Pokémon Center, the soft sounds of the surrounding forest mixed with the hum of trainers coming and going. The morning sun filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows across the small clearing. Ashley stretched her arms wide and yawned, releasing her team one by one with a flick of her Poké Balls.

First out was Vulcan, who immediately barked and spun in a circle, clearly thrilled to be outdoors. Neptune appeared next, his melodic trill adding to the tranquil atmosphere, while Venus popped out with a bright chirp, her new scarf fluttering in the breeze. Proserpina hummed softly as she swayed on her stubby legs, and Apollo coiled contentedly at the edge of the clearing, blinking sleepily in the sunlight. Finally, Mars emerged with a burst of light, he crossed his arms and looked away, still holding onto a hint of yesterday’s irritation.

“Good morning, everyone,” Ashley said brightly, ignoring Mars’s aloofness for now. She gestured to the feast before them. “Look what I got! Premium breakfast for my premium team.”

Vulcan barked happily, hopping beside her, while Venus darted forward to inspect the Poké Puffs. Neptune nuzzled Ashley’s shoulder before settling in beside Proserpina, who hummed in approval as she eyed the berries.

“Dig in!”

Vulcan didn’t need to be told twice. He dove in, his fluffy tail wagging furiously as he grabbed a strip of bacon and gulped it down. Venus, ever dainty, inspected each Poké Puff carefully before nibbling on the edges, while Neptune used his flippers to slide a bowl of berries closer. Proserpina swayed happily as she ate her share, and Apollo seemed to enjoy wrapping himself around a pile of Poké Puffs like a protective dragon guarding treasure.

Ashley glanced toward Mars, her smile faltering. Her Charmeleon hadn’t moved from his spot. He stood with his back to the group, tail twitching occasionally, his arms still firmly crossed.

With a sigh, Ashley picked up a strip of bacon and walked over to him. “Mars?” she started, keeping her tone soft.

He didn’t turn to face her, but his tail flicked again—a subtle acknowledgment.

Ashley lowered herself to the grass beside him, crossing her legs and leaning back on her hands. She waited a beat, letting the quiet between them settle before speaking. “Look,” she began, glancing up at his rigid posture. “I owe you a proper apology.”

Mars shifted slightly, his claws digging into the dirt, but he still didn’t look at her.

Ashley sighed again, running a hand through her braid. “I messed up, Mars. Just because everyone else on the team is into gyms and contests doesn’t mean I should’ve pushed you into something you didn’t want. I got caught up in the excitement, and I wasn’t listening to you. That’s on me.”

Finally, Mars turned his head slightly, one red eye meeting hers.

Ashley gave him a small, apologetic smile. “I get it now. You’re not about fancy moves or showing off. You’re about power, focus, and getting things done. And honestly?” She reached out, resting a hand gently on his arm. “That’s pretty awesome. I should’ve celebrated that about you instead of trying to change it.”

Mars’s tail flame flickered brighter for a moment, and his rigid stance softened. He uncrossed his arms, his gaze still fixed on Ashley.

“I promise I won’t push you like that again,” she continued. “From now on, we’ll focus on what you want to do—what makes you the best version of yourself. Deal?”

For a moment, Mars just stared at her, his expression unreadable. Then, with a low growl that sounded more like a sigh, he stepped forward and wrapped his arms around her in a tight hug.

Ashley froze, surprised, before her smile widened and she hugged him back. “Thanks, big guy,” she murmured, her voice warm. “I’ll do better. For you and for the team.”

Mars pulled back, giving her a toothy grin before turning toward the others. Vulcan barked happily, tail wagging, while Venus chirped and hopped closer, clearly sensing the mood had shifted.

Ashley stood, brushing grass off her pants. “Alright, breakfast isn’t going to eat itself. Come on, Mars—premium bacon’s got your name on it.”

This time, Mars didn’t hesitate. He joined the rest of the team, sitting beside Vulcan and grabbing a Poké Puff. Ashley watched him with a mixture of relief and pride, her chest feeling a little lighter now.

As the team finished their meal, the air filled with laughter and playful growls. Ashley leaned against a tree, arms crossed, her smile never fading. Today felt like a fresh start—a chance to move forward stronger than before.

With her team safely returned to their Poké Balls, save for Mars, Ashley slung her bag over her shoulder and stepped out of the Pokémon Center into the bustling streets of Celadon City. The morning sun had climbed higher, casting a golden glow over the city’s vibrant buildings and bustling walkways. She glanced down at her Charmeleon, who was walking beside her with his usual confident stride, his tail flame flickering brightly.

“Alright, Mars,” Ashley said with a grin, nudging him lightly with her elbow. “Today’s just you and me. No battling, no training—just some well-earned fun.”

Mars tilted his head up at her, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly, but there was a flicker of curiosity there.

Ashley leaned down conspiratorially, lowering her voice like she was sharing a secret. “First stop? Ice cream. I know you’ve got a sweet tooth—you’re not as sneaky about stealing Poké Puffs as you think.”

Mars snorted, a puff of smoke escaping his nostrils, but there was no denying the way his tail flame perked up.

The two wandered through the city, Ashley occasionally pointing out landmarks or window shopping as they passed bustling storefronts. Mars kept close, his claws clicking lightly against the pavement, his eyes scanning the crowd with a watchful sharpness that never quite left him.

When they reached the ice cream stand, Ashley felt a wave of nostalgia hit her. The brightly colored umbrellas shading the tables, the mouthwatering scent of fresh waffle cones—it reminded her of summer days back in Pallet Town. She turned to Mars, who was already eyeing the menu board with surprising intensity.

They approached the counter, the clerk, a cheerful young man in a green apron, greeted them with a bright smile. “What can I get for you two today?”

Ashley crouched slightly, pointing to the menu. “Alright, Mars, take your pick. They’ve got chocolate, vanilla, berry swirl, uh... ooh, mint chip. That sounds good!”

Mars folded his arms, his tail swaying thoughtfully as he examined the options like a connoisseur. Finally, he jabbed a claw decisively toward the chocolate option.

“Chocolate it is,” Ashley said, turning back to the clerk. “One chocolate for him, and I’ll take a strawberry cone, please.”

The clerk chuckled as he scooped their orders. “Your Charmeleon’s got good taste.”

Ashley laughed. “He knows what he wants, that’s for sure.”

A few minutes later, they were seated at a small table under one of the umbrellas. Mars was perched on the chair across from her, holding his chocolate cone delicately between his claws. He took a cautious lick, his expression neutral at first—then his tail flame flared slightly as his eyes lit up.

“Good?” Ashley asked, grinning around her own strawberry cone.

Mars gave a sharp nod, already diving back in for another lick.

They sat there for a while, enjoying the warm sun and cool ice cream. Ashley let her gaze wander across the busy street, taking in the sights and sounds of Celadon City. Beside her, Mars was fully focused on his cone, occasionally glancing up at her like he was making sure she wasn’t sneaking a bite of his.

“See? This is nice,” Ashley said after a moment, leaning back in her chair. “No battles, no contests—just us hanging out. Feels like old times, huh?”

Mars glanced up, his expression softening slightly as he let out a low rumble of agreement.

Ashley chuckled, reaching over to tap the side of his cone playfully. “You better finish that before it melts, big guy. Chocolate stains aren’t fun to get out of scales, I bet.”

Mars rolled his eyes but picked up the pace, finishing his ice cream with a few quick bites. When he was done, he leaned back in his chair, looking surprisingly relaxed.

Ashley finished her cone and stood, stretching her arms over her head. “Alright, partner. What’s next? Wanna check out the fountain in the park? I hear it’s got some cool statues.”

Mars hopped off his chair, his tail flicking with enthusiasm as he gave a short growl of approval.

Ashley grinned. “Fountain it is. Let’s go.”

As they walked side by side through the city, Ashley couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. Mars might be tough as nails, but moments like this reminded her that underneath the fiery attitude, he was still her first partner—the Pokémon who had been with her since the beginning.

And she wouldn’t trade him for anything.

However, as they were making their way to the park, Mars stopped Ashley, grabbing her by the skirt. Ashley followed Mars as he pointed his claw toward the Game Corner. The big neon sign outside flashed in playful patterns, promising excitement and maybe a little chaos inside. Ashley grinned, a mix of curiosity and amusement bubbling up.

“Alright, alright,” she said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. “I get it—you want to check it out. Let’s see if your instincts are as good as your battling skills.”

Mars gave a confident huff, his tail flame flaring slightly as he trotted ahead, the automatic doors sliding open with a cheerful ding.

The inside of the Game Corner was alive with noise and light. The sound of coins clinking, reels spinning, and cheerful jingles filled the air. Rows upon rows of slot machines blinked with colorful patterns, their displays promising jackpots just out of reach. A few trainers were hunched over machines, their expressions ranging from laser-focused determination to pure excitement.

Ashley stepped up behind Mars, who was already examining a row of machines with narrowed eyes, like he was sizing up opponents. She chuckled, shaking her head. “You’re really taking this seriously, huh? Alright, let’s pick one.”

Mars pointed at a machine with a bold red and gold design, flames etched around the screen. Ashley raised a brow, folding her arms. “Of course you’d pick the fire-themed one. Fine. Let’s see what you’ve got.”

She slid into the seat, dropping a handful of coins into the machine. The reels began to spin, each one blurring into a whirl of fruit symbols, numbers, and Poké Ball designs. Ashley tapped the button to stop the reels one by one, her eyes flicking between Mars and the display.

“Come on, lucky machine,” she muttered, leaning in closer as the first two reels landed on matching symbols.

Mars leaned forward, his claws gripping the edge of the machine as if his intense stare could will the third reel into place. With a triumphant ding, the final reel stopped on the same symbol, and a cascade of coins spilled out into the tray below.

Ashley let out a surprised laugh, scooping up the coins. “Mars, you genius! You’ve got the touch!”

Mars puffed out his chest, clearly pleased with himself, while his tail flame danced with excitement.

Encouraged by their success, Ashley moved to another machine, this time one with a sleek blue design. She slid in more coins, Mars standing by her side like a determined coach. “Alright, let’s see if lightning strikes twice.”

The reels spun, the colorful lights reflecting in Mars’s eyes as he watched intently. The first reel stopped—a Poké Ball. The second—a shiny star. The third—a jackpot symbol that triggered a shower of celebratory lights and music.

Ashley gasped, clapping her hands together as the machine poured out an even bigger pile of coins. “No way! We’re on fire today!”

Mars let out an excited growl, hopping slightly in place as Ashley gathered their winnings. “We’re cleaning up, buddy! Should we keep going or quit while we’re ahead?”

Mars gave her a look that clearly said one more, gesturing toward another row of machines. Ashley laughed, patting him on the head. “Alright, but if we lose, it’s on you.”

The next machine didn’t yield quite as much, but Ashley didn’t mind. They were having a blast. By the time they stepped away, her coin bucket was impressively full, and Mars looked as smug as ever.

“Not bad for our first time at the Game Corner,” Ashley said as she held up the bucket of coins. “Now the real question is, what do we spend this on? These are 5500 coins.”

Mars tilted his head thoughtfully before pointing toward a prize counter. Ashley grinned. “Good idea. Let’s see what kind of loot they’ve got.”

Ashley and Mars approached the prize counter, the bucket of coins jangling with each step. Mars’ tail flame flickering in satisfaction. Ashley scanned the shelves behind the counter, her fingers tapping lightly against the edge as she tried to make a decision. Plushies, rare items, and an array of technical machines lined the display, each encased in shiny protective cases.

Her eyes caught on a particular TM, its label bold and unmistakable: Hyper Beam.

Ashley let out a low whistle, leaning forward. “Well, hello there,” she murmured, her grin widening as she imagined the sheer power this TM could bring to her team. A reusable Hyper Beam? That wasn’t just a prize—it was a game-changer.

“Think this is the one, Mars?” she asked, glancing at her Charmeleon.

Mars tilted his head, then gave a firm nod, his gaze lingering on the TM with a glint of approval. It was clear he liked the idea of having that kind of firepower on the team—probably because it fit his flair for the dramatic.

Ashley handed over her coins, watching as the clerk retrieved the TM and slid it carefully into a protective bag. “One Hyper Beam TM,” the woman said with a professional smile, though her tone carried an edge that Ashley couldn’t quite place.

“Thanks,” Ashley said, tucking the TM into her bag. She offered a quick smile before stepping back. Mars followed at her heels, as they moved toward the exit.

As they left the counter and made their way to the door, something prickled at the back of Ashley’s mind. Years of training with her father as a Ranger had taught her to read a room, to notice details that others might miss. The Game Corner, for all its flashing lights and cheerful sounds, had an undercurrent of something… off.

Ashley’s gaze swept the room, her head remaining lowered to avoid drawing attention. She noticed the faint bulges under the jackets of the employees stationed at strategic points around the floor. Hidden holsters, maybe? The way their eyes subtly scanned the room didn’t feel like casual observation—it felt like vigilance.

Even the way they moved spoke of training. Their steps were deliberate, calculated. This wasn’t just a Game Corner staff—they were guards.

Ashley swallowed, her heart picking up speed. Mars seemed to sense her unease, glancing up at her with a questioning look. She gave him a small, reassuring smile, her hand brushing his head briefly. “We’re fine,” she whispered, keeping her tone light and steady. “Just stick close.”

Her focus shifted back to the exit. As they stepped out into the bustling Celadon streets, the cheerful ding of the door felt almost mocking. Ashley exhaled slowly, her grip on her bag tightening. She resisted the urge to look over her shoulder, even though every instinct screamed at her to check if anyone was watching them leave.

Once they were a safe distance from the Game Corner, she let out a low breath and crouched down to Mars’s level. “Okay, that was… interesting,” she muttered, her brow furrowing as she glanced back toward the neon-lit building.

Mars tilted his head, his expression curious but calm.

“I don’t know what’s going on in there,” Ashley said softly, “but something tells me it’s not just about coins and prizes.” She stood, brushing off her knees and squaring her shoulders.

Mars gave a small growl of agreement, his tail flicking with renewed determination.

Ashley ruffled his head affectionately. “Come on, let’s get back to the Pokémon Center, I need to make a call.”

Together, they made their way back through the crowded streets, the Game Corner fading into the distance behind them. The bright lights of Celadon City still twinkled cheerfully, but Ashley couldn’t shake the feeling that the place hid more secrets than it let on. She glanced down at Mars, who was walking beside her.

At least, she thought with a small smile, they’d walked out with what they came for—and a little extra.

Ashley closed the door to her room at the Pokémon Center, leaning her back against it as she let out a long, controlled exhale. Mars, ever-attentive, watched her closely from his spot by the bed. He tilted his head, his expression was serious, as if sensing her lingering unease.

"Okay, bud," Ashley muttered, sliding her bag off her shoulder and setting it on the desk. "Let's make the call." She pulled out her PokéNav, her fingers moving swiftly as she navigated to her dad's number. The soft hum of the device was the only sound in the room as it began to ring.

Her dad picked up on the second ring, his warm but alert voice filling the air. “Hey, Ashley! What’s up? Everything okay?”

Ashley bit her lip before responding. “Hey, Dad. Yeah, everything’s fine. Kind of. I just... ran into something weird, and I figured you’d want to know.”

There was a pause at the other end before her dad’s tone shifted, becoming sharper. “Weird how? You alright?”

“Yeah, I’m good,” she assured him quickly, glancing over at Mars, who gave her a small, encouraging nod. “It’s about the Game Corner here in Celadon City. You know, the one everyone talks about.”

Her dad’s voice was steady but concerned. “What happened?”

Ashley walked to the small desk in the corner of the room and sank into the chair, spinning it slightly as she recounted the details. “It’s not just some regular arcade,” she began, tapping the edge of the desk nervously. “The staff there—Dad, they’re armed. They move like they’ve had actual training. And they’re not just standing around. It’s like... they’re watching everything, keeping tabs.”

Her dad didn’t interrupt, letting her get it all out. “And,” Ashley added, her voice dropping slightly, “there’s this vibe. You know, that feeling you always talk about? Like something’s just... off? I had that the whole time I was there.”

Her dad hummed thoughtfully. “You did good picking up on that, Ashley. Not everyone would notice. And you got out without drawing attention?”

“Yeah,” Ashley said, glancing toward Mars again. “Didn’t make a scene or anything. Just kept my head down and left as soon as I got what I needed. Mars was with me the whole time.”

“Good,” her dad said firmly, his tone lightening just a fraction. “You’ve got sharp instincts. I’m proud of you for not trying to play hero.”

Ashley chuckled, though it was a bit strained. “Yeah, well, I figured busting into whatever that place is hiding isn’t exactly in my skill set. At least, not yet.”

Her dad’s laugh was short but genuine. “Smart girl. Listen, I’ve got some contacts in Celadon City. Rangers who might know more about what’s going on there. I’ll give them a call, see if this lines up with anything else they’ve been hearing.”

“Do you think it’s... you know, something big?” Ashley asked hesitantly, twisting a strand of her braided hair between her fingers.

“Hard to say without more details,” her dad admitted. “Could just be a front for something shady, or it could be tied to bigger players. Either way, you did the right thing by telling me.”

Ashley let out a small sigh of relief, leaning back in her chair. “Thanks, Dad. I just... I didn’t want to ignore it, but I didn’t know what else to do.”

“You did exactly what you should,” he assured her. “And Ashley?”

“Yeah?”

“Stay out of that place. I mean it. Whatever’s going on there, it’s not worth putting yourself in danger.”

“Got it,” Ashley said quickly, holding up a hand as if he could see her swearing on it. “No sneaking back in, I promise.”

Her dad chuckled. “Good. Now, go take care of your team and focus on your journey. I’ll handle this.”

Ashley smiled, some of the tension finally easing from her shoulders. “Thanks, Dad. Let me know if you find out anything?”

“Always,” he replied. “Be careful out there, darling.”

“I will. Love you, Dad.”

“Love you too, kiddo.”

As the call ended, Ashley set the PokéNav down on the desk and let out a deep breath. Mars climbed onto the bed, his eyes trained on her as he waited for her next move.

“Well,” Ashley said, turning to him with a small, wry smile. “Looks like we’re sticking to the gym circuit and contests for now, huh?”

Mars gave a soft growl of agreement, his tail flame flickering in the dim light. Ashley walked over and plopped onto the bed beside him, scratching under his chin.

“Thanks for having my back today, buddy,” she murmured. “Guess we’ll see what Dad finds out.”

Mars nuzzled her hand in response, and for the first time since they’d left the Game Corner, Ashley felt like she could finally breathe easy. Without thinking, Ashley wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a tight hug. Mars let out a low, rumbling growl, and nuzzled his snout against her shoulder. The heat radiating from him was comforting, grounding her in the moment.

She didn’t let go for a long time, needing the reassurance more than she wanted to admit. Mars didn’t protest, sitting perfectly still in her embrace, his claws lightly tapping against the edge of the bed as if reminding her he was there to stay.

Finally, Ashley pulled back, offering him a small, tired smile. “Alright, big guy, let’s call it a night.”

Mars gave a soft huff of agreement and clambered onto the bed with her, careful not to scorch the sheets with his tail. Ashley grabbed the comforter and pulled it over herself, Mars settling in beside her. She hesitated for a moment, staring up at the ceiling as her mind replayed the events at the Game Corner—the strange behavior of the staff, the hidden weapons, the unsettling sense of being watched. She felt like she should have done something more, but her dad’s voice echoed in her mind: You did the right thing by getting out.

Even with that reassurance, her chest felt tight. She turned onto her side, her gaze landing on Mars, who was already watching her intently. His eyes held none of the fiery stubbornness that usually defined him—just calm, unwavering support.

“Guess I wasn’t as ready for this journey as I thought,” Ashley admitted quietly, her voice cracking just a little. “It’s not just about battles or badges, is it? There’s so much more going on out here than I ever realized.”

Mars blinked at her, his tail flame flickering a little brighter, as if to remind her she wasn’t alone.

Ashley reached out, placing a hand gently on his head. “I don’t know what’s going on in that Game Corner, but I’m glad we walked out of there together. You’re my rock, Mars. Always will be.”

Mars let out a low, approving growl, and his tail curled slightly toward her as he nestled closer. Ashley smiled faintly, her hand still resting on his warm scales.

Unlike the night before, sleep didn’t come easily. Ashley’s thoughts raced, bouncing between what her dad might uncover and how she’d move forward. But Mars’s steady breathing and the rhythmic glow of his tail eventually began to lull her into a fragile sense of calm. She closed her eyes, her hand still resting lightly on Mars’s shoulder, and let the weariness of the day pull her under.

Her dreams that night were restless, filled with flashes of shadowy figures and corridors that twisted endlessly. She could hear distant whispers and the faint jingle of coins, but every time she turned to see where they were coming from, the scene shifted.

Through it all, a faint warmth lingered at her side, and she clung to it like a lifeline.

Chapter Text

The following day, Ashley found herself standing outside Celadon Gym much earlier than she’d anticipated. After the tense conversation with her father about the Game Corner, her nerves had gotten the better of her. She hadn’t been able to sit still at the Pokémon Center, every creak and shadow making her jumpy. The idea of wandering through the city, even with Mars by her side, felt just as unsettling. The looming weight of suspicion surrounding the Game Corner had left her feeling out of place and on edge, like a stranger in what should’ve been a friendly, bustling city.

So, instead of pacing the walls of her room or forcing herself to walk through crowded streets, she’d headed straight for the one place she thought she might find a sense of purpose again—the Celadon Gym.

Now, she stood outside the massive greenhouse-like structure, her heart thudding in her chest with a mixture of excitement and nerves. The gym looked nothing like the imposing buildings she’d imagined as a child. Instead, it radiated tranquility and beauty, with thick vines cascading down the walls like nature’s curtains. The glass roof sparkled under the morning sunlight, refracting beams of light into rainbow patterns that danced across the ground. She could smell the fragrant aroma of blooming flowers wafting through the open doors, their scents a heady mix of sweet and earthy.

Ashley tugged on the brim of her hat, trying to steady her thoughts. “Well, here we are,” she muttered to herself, glancing down at Mars. “Ready to take on the Garden of Doom?”

Mars, her Charmeleon, stood with his arms crossed, his fiery tail swishing behind him with quiet confidence. His narrowed eyes scanned the entrance of the gym, as though already anticipating the battle ahead. The steady flicker of his flame felt oddly reassuring to Ashley—a constant reminder that, no matter how much doubt she carried, Mars was always ready to face the next challenge.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” Ashley said with a faint grin, placing a hand on his head briefly before stepping forward. She hesitated just before the entrance, looking up at the carved sign hanging above the doors. The letters spelling out “Celadon City Gym” were surrounded by intricate floral patterns, painted in soft, pastel colors.

“It’s pretty, I’ll give them that,” she muttered. Mars let out a low grunt that almost sounded like agreement.

Taking a deep breath, Ashley adjusted the straps of her backpack and stepped through the doors, the scent of flowers growing even stronger as she entered. Sunlight streamed in from the glass ceiling, illuminating the interior with a warm, golden glow. Rows of vibrant plants lined the walls and paths, and Pokémon like Bellsprout, Oddish, and Gloom wandered freely, their presence adding life to the already breathtaking environment.

She took another step, the sound of her sneakers muffled by the soft moss that carpeted the floor. The air was cooler inside, with a faint humidity that reminded her of the Safari Zone. It felt more like stepping into a hidden garden than a place meant for intense battles.

“Alright, Erika,” Ashley murmured under her breath. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

Mars let out a quiet growl beside her, his tail flicking upward as his claws flexed. He was ready, even if she still had a knot of nerves twisting in her stomach.

The gym’s interior was truly breathtaking. The entire space was a vibrant garden, filled with every shade of green imaginable. Brightly colored flowers bloomed in neat arrangements, forming intricate patterns that seemed almost too perfect to be real. Overhead, sunlight filtered through a glass dome, casting a soft glow over everything. In the center of it all was a massive floral display shaped like a Vileplume, its wide petals forming a canopy that provided shade to the battlefield below.

Ashley was so caught up in taking it all in that she didn’t notice Erika approaching until she was only a few feet away. The Celadon Gym Leader looked as serene as her gym, her long hair pinned back with delicate flowers. She wore a kimono decorated with patterns of vines and leaves, and her smile was warm as she clasped her hands in front of her.

“Ashley! You finally graced my gym with your lovely presence,” Erika said, her voice soft but carrying a confident undertone. “I’ve been quite excited.”

Ashley blinked, startled. “You have?”

Erika’s smile widened just a fraction. “Of course. Word travels fast in our community, and I’ve heard about your battles with Blaine and Koga. It’s rare to see a trainer tackle gyms in such an unconventional order. It speaks to your determination.” She gestured toward the battlefield. “Shall we?”

Ashley grinned, her earlier nerves melting away as excitement bubbled to the surface. “Absolutely!”

She followed Erika to the battlefield, which was bordered by hedges and ringed with colorful blossoms. Mars trotted beside her, his tail swishing as he surveyed the area. Ashley glanced down at him, her confidence bolstered by his steady presence.

As the two trainers took their places on opposite sides of the field, Erika’s expression turned serious, though the warmth in her eyes didn’t fade. “Before we begin, there’s something you should know. At my gym, we value nature and growth, not just in Pokémon but in trainers as well. That’s why our gym challenge reflects these principles.”

Ashley tilted her head, curious. “What do you mean?”

Erika folded her hands gracefully. “This will be a three-on-three battle, but with a unique twist. Each trainer must use one Pokémon from each evolutionary stage—first stage, second stage, and final stage. The idea is to showcase the journey of growth and to appreciate each phase of development.”

Ashley frowned slightly, her hand instinctively brushing against her Poké Balls. “That’s... a great idea, but I’ve got a bit of a problem.” She hesitated, then raised her hand like a kid in class. “I don’t have any fully evolved Pokémon yet. But—” she added quickly, “I do have a Pokémon that doesn’t evolve. Could they count as my final stage Pokémon?”

Erika regarded her thoughtfully, then nodded. “Yes, that’s acceptable. Pokémon that cannot evolve have their own kind of completeness, and they can absolutely represent the final stage of growth.”

Relieved, Ashley flashed her a grin. “Thanks, Erika. That means a lot.”

Erika inclined her head, her smile returning. “You’re very welcome. I appreciate your honesty, Ashley. It’s a sign of a good trainer to adapt and find solutions. Now, let’s see how you fare in battle.”

Ashley’s pulse quickened as she adjusted her cap and prepared to select her lineup. "Alright," she said under her breath. “Let’s make this one to remember.”

The female referee raised her hand, her voice clear and formal as she announced, “The Celadon Gym Challenge begins!”

Ashley grinned, gripping Apollo’s Poké Ball tightly before releasing him onto the field. The sleek, serpentine Dratini materialized in a swirl of light, his scales glinting under the sunlight streaming through the greenhouse dome. Apollo coiled in place, his bright eyes fixed on the Pokémon across the field.

Erika smiled gently as she released her Tangela. The bundle of writhing blue vines landed gracefully, her large, curious eyes peeking out from behind her tendrils. Tangela swayed slightly, as if testing the breeze, her vines rustling faintly as she prepared for battle.

Ashley took a deep breath, pointing at Apollo. “Alright, Apollo, let’s show them what you’ve got!”

“Begin!” the referee called, her voice echoing across the serene battlefield.

Tangela moved first, her vines snapping forward like coiled springs released at lightning speed. “Vine Whip!” Erika commanded, her tone as calm and steady as a river’s flow.

“Dodge it, Apollo!” Ashley shouted, her voice sharp with urgency.

Apollo’s serpentine body shimmered under the sunlight as he twisted and slithered with incredible agility. The Vine Whip lashed out but struck empty air, missing him by mere inches. His movements were fluid, each motion calculated, earning an approving hum from Erika.

“Now, Wrap!” Ashley countered, her finger pointing forward with determination.

Apollo darted toward Tangela with precision, his lithe form a blur as he coiled tightly around her. His grip was firm yet measured, restricting Tangela’s movements and pinning her vines close to her body. Tangela wriggled furiously, her glowing blue vines thrashing wildly in an attempt to escape, but Apollo’s hold was unyielding.

“Stun Spore,” Erika said, her eyes gleaming with strategic intent.

Tangela’s vines glowed faintly before releasing a cloud of golden spores. The shimmering dust enveloped both Pokémon in an instant. Ashley’s heart clenched as the glowing particles clung to Apollo’s sleek scales.

Then, Apollo’s body shimmered faintly, the spores sliding off harmlessly. “Shed Skin!” Ashley cheered, punching the air. “Way to shake it off, Apollo!”

Erika’s lips curved into a small, impressed smile, but she wasted no time. “Don’t lose momentum, Tangela. Shake free and prepare for Sleep Powder.”

Ashley, seeing the opportunity, quickly called out, “Thunder Wave, Apollo! Let’s slow her down!”

Electricity sparked along Apollo’s scales before a jolt of energy shot toward Tangela. The attack crackled as it struck her directly, the charge locking her vines in place as paralysis set in. Tangela’s movements slowed, her thrashing vines now jerky and stiff.

“Sleep Powder,” Erika ordered, unfazed.

Tangela shook her vines again, releasing a glittering cloud of green powder that floated gently toward Apollo. Ashley’s jaw tightened. “Double Team!” she called, her voice steady.

Apollo’s form flickered before multiplying into a dozen identical copies, each one shimmering faintly in the golden sunlight. The Sleep Powder drifted harmlessly through the illusions, the real Apollo slithering to safety. Tangela’s wide, confused eyes darted between the clones, her paralyzed movements too sluggish to figure out the real target.

“Yes!” Ashley exclaimed, her confidence surging. “Now, Twister!”

Apollo whipped his tail in a graceful arc, summoning a swirling vortex of wind. The twister spiraled forward, the force lifting Tangela slightly off the ground. Leaves and loose petals swirled in the gust as Tangela’s vines flailed wildly, unable to stabilize her in the storm.

Ashley seized the moment. “Let’s turn up the heat—Sunny Day!”

Apollo raised his head, releasing a small glowing orb that shot skyward. The orb exploded in a burst of light, illuminating the battlefield with a warm, golden glow. The flowers around the field shimmered as if sparkling with life, the entire atmosphere shifting into one of radiant beauty.

Erika tilted her head slightly, her brow raised in curiosity. “Using Sunny Day in a Grass-type gym? An interesting choice.”

Ashley smirked, brushing her hand along the brim of her cap. “Let’s see if it pays off.”

Erika remained composed. “Absorb, Tangela.”

Tangela, still buffeted by paralysis but determined, extended her glowing vines toward Apollo. The energy tendrils latched onto Apollo’s form, draining a faint glow of energy. The healing effect, though minimal, gave Tangela a brief reprieve.

“Not bad,” Ashley murmured. “But let’s show them what you’re really made of. Apollo, Fire Blast!”

It was a bet. Like using Sunny Day in a Grass-type Gym. Fire Blast in the newly taught move to Ashley’s team, which she taught to Mars, Vulcan, and Apollo. But it seems to have worked, the Sunny Day-Fire Blast combo was what was needed for the win!

Apollo reared back, his body glowing with fiery energy. His mouth opened, releasing a massive kanji-shaped burst of flames that roared forward, fueled by the intensified sunlight. The blazing attack illuminated the battlefield, casting shadows across the lush greenery.

The Fire Blast struck Tangela head-on, the flames consuming her form in a controlled explosion of heat and light. Tangela let out a soft cry as her vines drooped, her energy spent. The sunlight seemed to dim slightly as Tangela collapsed onto the grass, her movements stilled.

The referee raised her hand confidently. “Tangela is unable to battle! The first round goes to Ashley and Dratini!”

Ashley let out an exhilarated cheer, pumping her fist into the air. “We did it, Apollo!” she called, her voice brimming with pride.

Apollo slithered back toward her, his tail swishing happily as Ashley crouched down to give him an affectionate pat. “You were incredible out there,” she whispered, her grin wide. “That Fire Blast was perfection.”

Erika recalled her fainted Tangela with a small nod of respect. “Your strategy was bold, and your bond with Dratini is evident. But this was only the first round. Prepare yourself, Ashley. The battle is far from over.”

Ashley straightened, her grin never faltering. “Bring it on, Erika. We’re just getting started.”

Ashley pumped her fist, beaming as Apollo slithered back to her side, his chest puffed out in pride. She knelt to ruffle his head. “You were amazing out there, Apollo! That’s how we do it!”

Erika recalled Tangela with a soft smile. “Your Dratini’s agility and control are impressive. This battle is far from over, but you’ve certainly earned this first round.”

Ashley grinned, her excitement bubbling over as she prepared for the next phase of the challenge. "Round one down. Let’s keep this momentum going!”

The referee stepped forward, as Ashley recalled her Dratini, and spoke up, “For the second round, only Pokémon who are on their secondary evolutionary stage are allowed to participate. Do you understand?”

Erika stood with her arms crossed, a serene smile playing on her lips as she released her second Pokémon. In a burst of light, a Weepinbell appeared on the battlefield, swaying slightly in the light breeze. Across from her, Ashley adjusted her hat and cracked a smirk, brushing a strand of hair out of her face as Mars barked in determination. She winced, realizing that she would have her started angry at her for a second time in such a small amount of time.

She knelt before him and grimaced, “Sorry buddy, but you already had two gyms and a contest. We need to let the others in the team have fun as well.” Mars pouted, but he seems to agree, most likely recalling his win in the previous gym, in which he was able to evolve. Standing up with a relieved smile, Ashley recalled him, before she patted her second Poke Ball. “Proserpina, you are up next!”

Her Gloom, Proserpina, appeared with a burst of light, waddling forward with determination. The bright glow of her entrance reflected off her gleaming petals, and she turned to face Weepinbell with a focused hum, her small body radiating determination.

"Alright, Proserpina, let's crank up the heat! Sunny Day!" Ashley called, snapping her fingers for emphasis. Her voice rang with confidence, cutting through the quiet hum of the gym.

Proserpina lifted her stubby arms, the petals on her head trembling slightly as a small ball of golden light formed above her. The orb shot skyward with a shimmer, exploding into a cascade of bright rays that bathed the field in intense sunlight. The atmosphere shifted immediately—the golden light cast intricate shadows of leaves across the gym’s lush terrain. Proserpina’s petals sparkled under the sunlight, her movements becoming noticeably quicker and more fluid as her Chlorophyll ability kicked in.

Erika raised an eyebrow, her serene expression unshaken. "Not a bad start," she remarked, her tone calm but commanding, "but we're just getting warmed up. Weepinbell, show them we're not afraid. Stand your ground."

Weepinbell swayed slightly, his wide, puckered mouth giving him a perpetually unimpressed look. He shifted his bulbous body, the vines coiled tightly around his base twitching as though they were alive, ready to spring into action.

"Time to bulk up! Growth!" Ashley ordered, pumping her fist with enthusiasm.

Proserpina glowed faintly, a warm, pulsing energy surrounding her as the sunlight intensified her power. Her stubby body seemed to swell slightly, her leaves glistening as her strength and special attack surged. She let out a contented hum, the energy crackling faintly in the air.

Ashley grinned, her confidence growing. "Looking good, girl. Now let's—"

"Vine Whip," Erika interrupted, her tone carrying an edge of quiet authority, like a blade sliding from its sheath.

Weepinbell’s vines lashed out without hesitation, slicing through the air with an audible snap. The twin tendrils streaked toward Proserpina, their speed surprising despite Weepinbell’s seemingly relaxed stance.

Ashley yelped, hopping back instinctively. "Whoa, whoa! Double Team, now!"

Proserpina’s form shimmered and then multiplied, creating a cluster of identical Glooms scattered across the field. The Vine Whip struck one of the clones, the force causing it to fizzle and vanish in a brief sparkle of light. The real Proserpina darted to the side, her movements erratic yet deliberate, each step calculated to keep her one step ahead of the whipping vines.

"Nice dodge!" Ashley cheered, clenching her fists with excitement. Proserpina swayed slightly, her clones moving in perfect synchronization with her, adding to the confusion.

Erika’s eyes narrowed slightly, her Weepinbell already poised for his next strike. "Keep up the pressure," she instructed, her tone firm yet calm.

Weepinbell nodded, his vines coiling tighter before lashing out again in rapid succession. The attacks came like a rhythmic assault, each whip slicing through the air toward the scattered images of Proserpina.

Proserpina darted left, then right, narrowly avoiding the strikes. The shimmering illusions flickered as the vines struck them down, but Proserpina herself remained unscathed, her stubby legs moving with unexpected grace.

"Stand your ground, Proserpina!" Ashley called. "Let’s make it count. Growth again!"

Proserpina swerved to avoid another lash of the vines, planting her feet firmly into the soft grass. Her petals quivered as she glowed faintly once more, drawing strength from the sunlight that bathed the field. Her form seemed to pulse with energy, the increased power radiating from her leaves and petals in shimmering waves.

Erika’s Weepinbell retracted his vines, pausing for a brief moment, his gaze locked onto Proserpina as if recalculating his next move. Erika tilted her head, her voice carrying a note of challenge. "You’ve increased your power, but it’s meaningless if you can’t land a hit. Weepinbell, Acid."

Weepinbell swayed again, his puckered mouth glowing faintly purple before releasing a stream of bubbling, corrosive liquid. The attack arced through the air, sizzling faintly as it made contact with the ground, leaving small scorch marks in its wake as it raced toward Proserpina.

"Intercept it with your own Acid!" Ashley shouted, her voice ringing with determination.

Proserpina swayed forward, opening her petals wide as a violet liquid sprayed forth, meeting Weepinbell’s attack mid-air. The two streams collided in a burst of steam, the hiss echoing across the field as the acidic sprays neutralized each other.

Ashley smirked. "Nice work! Now, Stun Spore, quick!"

Proserpina spun on her stubby legs, shaking her petals vigorously. A golden cloud of sparkling spores erupted from her leaves, spreading rapidly across the battlefield. Weepinbell, still recovering from his Acid attack, had no time to dodge. The spores settled on his vines and bulbous body, causing his movements to jerk and slow as paralysis took hold.

Erika pressed her lips together, her calm demeanor cracking just slightly. "Razor Leaf."

Despite the paralysis, Weepinbell summoned a flurry of sharp, spinning leaves, launching them toward Proserpina in an elegant arc. The sunlight reflected off the leaves, making them shimmer as they closed in.

"Counter with Swift!" Ashley commanded.

Proserpina’s petals glowed as she unleashed a barrage of glowing stars that zipped through the air, meeting the incoming leaves in mid-flight. The two attacks collided, scattering leaves and stars alike in a dazzling burst of light.

Ashley jabbed a finger toward Erika’s Pokémon. "Cloud time! Recall your training with Koga! Give it everything you’ve got!"

Proserpina’s stubby legs dug into the earth, and her petals flared wide as she began to charge. The golden sunlight streaming down from the earlier Sunny Day seemed to funnel into her, making her glow with an intense, almost blinding light. The air around her seemed to ripple with heat as she prepared to unleash her power. Her petals trembled with the effort, emitting faint sparks of energy.

Erika raised her hand slightly, her voice soft but cutting through the tension like a blade. "Acid."

Weepinbell didn’t hesitate. His puckered mouth glowed faintly purple before spewing a glob of bubbling, corrosive liquid. The attack streaked across the field with startling speed, sizzling faintly as it arced through the sunlit air. The Acid splattered across Proserpina’s petals and face, hissing as it burned.

Proserpina flinched, letting out a startled cry as her glowing charge flickered and faded. She stumbled back, shaking her head vigorously to rid herself of the burning sensation. Drops of Acid hissed against the grass beneath her, leaving charred patches in their wake.

Ashley groaned, throwing her hands in the air. "Ugh, come on! Seriously? That was dirty!"

Erika offered a delicate shrug, her lips curving into a faint smile. Her calm demeanor was maddening. "It's a battle. We take every opportunity."

Proserpina growled lowly, the trembling in her petals now one of determination rather than pain. Her stubby legs steadied as she shook off the lingering discomfort, her eyes narrowing. She wasn’t going down that easily.

Ashley jabbed her finger forward again. "Alright, you’re not stopping us that easily! Sunny Day, one more time!"

Proserpina lifted her face to the sky, her petals quivering as another golden orb shot upward. The sun above flared even brighter, bathing the battlefield in light so intense it made the grass shimmer and the air feel warmer. Proserpina moved faster now, her body a blur as she darted into a better position.

But Erika didn’t look concerned. "Solar Beam," she commanded smoothly, her Weepinbell already charging.

Weepinbell opened his mouth wide, a sphere of golden light gathering rapidly inside. The sunlight-boosted Solar Beam didn’t take long to charge. With a sharp cry, Weepinbell unleashed the beam, a brilliant, searing ray of energy streaking directly toward Proserpina.

"Move it, Proserpina!" Ashley shouted, panic creeping into her voice.

Proserpina twisted to dodge, but the beam’s speed was overwhelming. The Solar Beam struck her full force, sending her skidding backward across the field. She staggered as she tried to recover, her petals drooping slightly, her breaths coming in shallow huffs.

Ashley winced, her fists clenched. "Don’t just stand there! Giga Drain, let’s go!"

Proserpina swayed unsteadily but obeyed, her leaves glowing a vibrant green. Tendrils of energy reached out toward Weepinbell, aiming to sap his strength and replenish her own. But Erika’s sharp eyes caught the move.

"Knock Off," she said, her voice sharp and precise.

Weepinbell’s vines coiled and then snapped outward, slamming into Proserpina with a force that cut through the Giga Drain tendrils. The attack sent her stumbling again, leaving her visibly weakened.

Ashley growled, stomping her foot in frustration. "Come on, think... Okay, Proserpina, go for Toxic! You’ve got this!"

Proserpina steadied herself, her petals trembling as she tried to summon her remaining strength. A dark purple glow began to form around her, but before she could release the attack, Erika was already one step ahead.

"Finish this. Solar Beam, again."

Weepinbell took advantage of the residual sunlight, charging up the powerful beam almost instantly. The energy blast hit Proserpina squarely, the impact shaking the ground and sending a cloud of dust into the air. When it cleared, Proserpina was barely standing, her body trembling as she struggled to stay upright.

Ashley bit her lip, her heart sinking. "Proserpina..." she whispered, her voice soft.

But Erika didn’t let up. "Vine Whip," she commanded, her voice carrying a finality that made Ashley flinch.

Weepinbell’s vines lashed out in a blur, striking Proserpina with a resounding crack that sent the Gloom sprawling onto the grass. The field fell silent as Proserpina lay still, her petals twitching faintly before going limp.

Ashley’s hat nearly flew off her head as she recoiled. "Oh, come on!" she shouted, exasperation mingling with her concern. She ran onto the field, crouching beside her fallen Pokémon.

The referee raised her hand. "Gloom is unable to battle! The round goes to Erika and Weepinbell!"

Ashley sighed heavily, scratching the back of her head as she gently lifted Proserpina into her arms. "Alright, alright, you win this one," she muttered, her tone begrudging but not without a hint of admiration. She glanced at Erika, who was already beckoning Weepinbell back with a calm nod. "But don’t think I’m letting you off easy next round!"

Erika smiled faintly, resting a hand lightly on Weepinbell’s vines as they curled around her wrist. "I wouldn’t expect anything less."

Despite her loss, Ashley grinned, adjusting her hat with a flick of her wrist. "Next round, you’re the one eating dirt. Just wait." She turned, holding Proserpina close as she returned to her side of the battlefield, her mind already racing with strategies for the final round.

Erika’s eyes sparkled with quiet amusement as the sunlight dimmed slightly, signaling the end of the battle. "We’ll see."

The tension crackled in the open field as the third round began. Erika and Ashley recalled their Pokémon. They released their third choice as soon as the referee’s flag was waved.  Erika’s Vileplume came out in a burst of light, her enormous flower bobbing rhythmically, releasing faint puffs of shimmering spores with each step. Across from her, Ashley’s Lapras, Neptune, glided into position on his smooth belly, his serene expression betraying none of the power lurking beneath his shell.

Erika adjusted her kimono with a fluid motion, the hint of a smile touching her lips. “Vileplume, let’s take the lead. Start with Acid.”

Vileplume wasted no time, leaning forward as a stream of noxious purple liquid arced toward Lapras. The attack splattered harmlessly across Neptune’s shell, the sturdy armor gleaming as the droplets rolled off.

Ashley smirked and wagged a finger at Erika. “Yeah, nice try, but Neptune’s got more defense than a fortress. Water Gun, Neptune!”

Neptune reared his head before releasing a high-pressure jet of water. The spray struck Vileplume dead-on, her petals rippling from the force, but the Grass-type dug her stubby feet into the damp earth and refused to budge.

"Good footing," Ashley muttered under her breath. “Alright, big guy, let’s keep—”

“Stun Spore,” Erika interjected, her voice calm but commanding.

The air shimmered gold as Vileplume spun, releasing a cloud of sparkling spores. Neptune flinched as the particles settled on his slick, damp body. Ashley frowned, her fingers twitching toward her hat.

“Come on, Neptune, shake it off! You’re not going down like this,” Ashley said, practically bouncing on her heels.

The moment she said it, the sky darkened as thunder rumbled in the distance. Neptune’s Hydration ability kicked in, the moisture from the spores dissipating instantly under the rain that began to pour. Ashley grinned and pointed dramatically. “Rain Dance! Boom! Your Stun Spore just got washed away!”

Erika blinked up at the now-overcast sky, the downpour soaking into the grass and making the field slick. “Impressive. But let’s not give up the weather advantage so easily. Sunny Day.”

Vileplume raised her arms, attempting to part the heavy clouds with a faint golden glow. The effort was valiant, but the rain overwhelmed it, and the clouds thickened again, the sun retreating completely. Erika’s smile wavered, but only slightly.

Ashley leaned forward, elbows on her knees. “Sorry, but you can’t outshine Neptune in his own storm. Ice Shard!”

Chunks of jagged ice materialized around Neptune’s body before being launched at Vileplume like mini torpedoes. The shards pelted Erika’s Pokémon, sending her skidding backward. Vileplume let out a low groan, her petals drooping slightly.

“Keep steady, Vileplume,” Erika encouraged, her voice firm. “Sweet Scent.”

The field filled with a cloying, floral aroma, the misty rain now tinged with the smell of honeysuckle and damp earth. Lapras blinked, momentarily distracted, but Ashley wasn’t about to let them lose focus.

“Don’t let it get to you, Neptune! Double Team!”

Neptune shimmered as copies of his massive form appeared across the field, each one mirroring the real Lapras. Vileplume spun in confusion, his eyes darting between the identical figures as Ashley clapped her hands.

“Now we’re cooking! Let’s make some noise—Swift!”

Neptune launched glowing stars from all angles, the attack raining down on Vileplume like hail. Each star found its mark, leaving the Grass-type wobbling. Erika frowned, her usually serene demeanor showing the faintest sign of concern.

“Sleep Powder,” she said softly, her voice almost drowned out by the rain.

Vileplume puffed out another cloud of spores, this one heavy and green, wafting toward the cluster of Lapras copies. The spores settled on the illusions, causing them to fade, but the real Lapras glided smoothly to the side, unharmed.

Ashley’s grin widened. “Missed me! Now, let’s end this—Body Slam!”

The rain slicked field gave Neptune a surprising burst of momentum as he surged forward, his massive body slamming into Vileplume like a freight train. The impact sent the Grass-type sprawling, mud splattering across her petals.

Erika pressed her lips together, her gaze steady. “Giga Drain, now.”

Vileplume raised a trembling arm, trying to sap energy from the looming Lapras, but the rain-slick field and Neptune’s evasive gliding made it nearly impossible to land the attack. The energy dissipated harmlessly into the wet air.

Ashley straightened, her hands on her hips. “Nice try, but you’re outta juice. Neptune, Life Dew!”

Neptune released a calming mist that swirled around his body, the sparkling water rejuvenating him while further demoralizing Vileplume. The mist seemed to extinguish what little fight the Grass-type had left.

“Finish it with one last Ice Shard,” Ashley said with finality.

The jagged ice flew once more, striking Vileplume squarely. The Grass-type toppled over, her petals fluttering to the ground like a wilting flower.

Erika sighed, recalling her fainted Pokémon with a nod of respect. “A fine performance. Your Lapras is certainly resilient.”

Ashley tipped her hat, Neptune letting out a triumphant cry. “What can I say? Neptune knows how to make a splash!” The rain slowed, the field quieting as Erika prepared for the next round. Ashley, meanwhile, made her way next to Neptune, scratching his neck. “You crushed it, big guy. Ready for the next?”

Neptune let out a low, melodic hum, his eyes gleaming in the fading rain.

The rain had finally stopped, leaving the battlefield drenched and gleaming under the faint glow of the sun breaking through the clouds. Ashley stood next to Neptune, her arms crossed, and a cocky grin plastered across her face. Neptune let out a low, satisfied hum, water dripping off his shell as he nudged Ashley with his massive head.

Erika walked toward them with her usual calm elegance, holding something in her hand. She stopped a few feet away, her Vileplume safely back in her Poké Ball. A soft smile played on her lips as she extended her hand. “Congratulations, Ashley. You’ve earned this.”

Ashley blinked, then leaned forward slightly, her grin growing wider when she saw the Rainbow Badge. It was shaped like a delicate flower, its petals painted in soft rainbow hues that caught the light. She snatched it up with both hands, holding it above her head dramatically. “Yes! Look at this, Neptune! We did it!”

Neptune let out an enthusiastic bellow, and Ashley threw her arms around his neck, laughing as the big Water-type nuzzled her shoulder. “You’re the best, big guy. Totally crushed it!”

Erika chuckled softly, watching the display with an amused expression. “You fought well, and your strategy with Lapras was... surprising. I didn’t expect you to use the weather so effectively. Or for him to be able to slide across the muddy grass as if it was ice.”

Ashley smirked, brushing some damp hair from her face and spinning the badge between her fingers. “Yeah, well, when are raised by a Ranger for a father, you pick up a few things about using the territory as your advantage. Gotta keep you Grass-types on your toes!”

Erika tilted her head, her gaze softening. “Speaking of your father…”

Ashley froze mid-spin, the Rainbow Badge slipping from her fingers before she caught it awkwardly. “Huh? What about my dad?” she asked, narrowing her eyes.

Erika clasped her hands in front of her, her tone steady but serious. “I wanted to thank you. For what you told me about the Game Corner.”

The badge almost fell again as Ashley stared at Erika, completely blindsided. “Wait, what?” She waved her hands as though trying to physically catch the conversation. “You mean... that shady stuff I mentioned? You were the one to check that out?”

Erika nodded, her serene expression giving little away. “I did. And you were right. There was a Team Rocket lair hidden behind a false wall, underneath the Game Corner.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped, and she pointed a finger at Erika as though trying to make sense of what she just heard. “You’re telling me I—like, me, Ashley Ketchum—found a Team Rocket base? Are you kidding?”

Erika smiled faintly, clearly amused by Ashley’s disbelief. “No, I’m not kidding. Your information was instrumental. After you called your father, he reached out to his contacts here in Celadon City. A Ghost Specialist was brought in to investigate.”

Ashley gaped. “A Ghost Specialist? Those are rare… What did they do? Spook the Rockets out of hiding?” She mimed waving her arms dramatically, making ghostly “oooh” sounds.

Erika allowed herself a small laugh before continuing. “Not quite. The specialist used their Pokémon to slip through walls and report back on what was inside. Once we confirmed the lair’s location, I coordinated with the police to plan a raid. We struck in the dead of night.” Her expression grew sharper, her tone more serious. “We used the element of surprise. By morning, the lair was dismantled, and Team Rocket had been... neutralized.”

Ashley’s eyes widened even further, and she clutched her hat. “Neutralized? Whoa, whoa, whoa—are we talking handcuffs, or did you all just, like, Thunderbolt them into oblivion?”

Erika gave her a calm look, though there was a glint of something almost playful in her eyes. “Let’s just say they won’t be causing trouble in Celadon City any longer.”

Ashley let out a low whistle, rocking back on her heels. “Man, and here I thought I was just spilling some random gossip! How did you even know it was me who tipped you off?”

Erika’s expression softened again. “No one else knew about that call you made to your father. He informed his contacts, who then worked with me. But don’t worry,” she added, holding up a hand as Ashley’s mouth opened in protest, “your involvement is a secret. No one else knows.”

Ashley let out a sigh of relief, slumping slightly as she shook her head. “Phew. The last thing I need is some Rocket goon showing up at my door like, ‘Hey, heard you were snitching.’” She jabbed a thumb at Neptune. “I mean, Neptune’s tough, but even he can’t Ice Shard every Rocket in Kanto.”

Erika chuckled again, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “You did the right thing, Ashley. You stopped a Pokémon Traffic Ring. Celadon is safer because of you.”

Ashley rubbed the back of her neck, suddenly looking a little embarrassed. “Yeah, well, I just thought it was sketchy, y’know? I didn’t think anyone would actually do something about it. But, uh… thanks. For, y’know… handling it.”

Erika bowed slightly; her movements as graceful as ever. “The thanks are mine. And congratulations again on your victory. You’ve more than earned your Rainbow Badge and this reusable Giga Drain TM.”

Ashley took the TM with a grin. “Yeah, I guess I did, huh?”

Erika watched the pair with a faint smile. “Here’s also my PokéNav number, in case you have any questions about raising Proserpina. After all, I do specialize in the Oddish line.”

“Thank you!” Ashely beamed, returning Neptune as she made her way out.

The streets of Celadon City bustled around Ashley as she stepped out of the gym, the Rainbow Badge tucked safely into her jacket pocket. The city seemed as lively as ever—people laughing, chatting, and hurrying about their day—but for once, Ashley felt completely disconnected from the chaos. Her mind was spinning like a Pokéball after a failed catch.

“A Team Rocket lair,” she muttered under her breath, her steps almost robotic as she navigated the cobblestone streets toward the Pokémon Center. “A freaking Rocket lair. What did I almost walk into?”

Mars, who Ashley had called back out, let out a low rumble, as he nudged her arm with his head.

“I’m fine, big guy,” Ashley said automatically, waving him off. “Just, y’know… processing the fact that I might’ve been on Team Rocket’s ‘Most Annoying Trainer’ list without even realizing it.”

She blew out a breath, her gaze drifting toward the sky. The sunset had left the city covered in hues of orange, giving the city a dreamlike quality. Normally, she’d love it—Celadon looked like it belonged in a postcard right now—but all she could think about was Erika’s calm, almost too-casual explanation of the raid.

Ashley pushed open the Pokémon Center’s glass doors, the jingling bell above her head snapping her back to reality. The warmth inside hit her immediately, the faint hum of machinery and the soft chatter of trainers creating a cocoon of comfort. She approached the counter where Nurse Joy stood, her ever-present smile in place.

“Hey, Nurse Joy,” Ashley said, her voice unusually subdued as she unclipped her Pokéballs one by one. “My team’s pretty beat up after the gym battle. Mind taking care of them?”

“Of course!” Nurse Joy replied cheerily, taking the Pokéballs and placing them onto a tray. “Lapras too?”

Ashley shook her head and patted Neptune’s Poké Ball. “Yeah, he won his battle, but still. Though, keep a special eye on Proserpina. She’s, uh… been through a lot.”

Nurse Joy nodded, her expression softening as she took the tray and disappeared into the back room. Ashley watched her go, then dropped herself onto one of the waiting area’s couches, slumping back so far, her hat almost fell off. Mars settled beside her, his claws holding her hand in comfort.

She tightened her hold on Mars and stared at the ceiling, her foot tapping restlessly against the tile. “Okay, Ashley, let’s break this down,” she muttered, her voice low enough that only Neptune could hear. “You call your dad, you think you’re just passing on some random gossip about sketchy dudes in suits hanging around the Game Corner, and boom! Turns out you’re helping to take down an entire Rocket base.”

Mars tilted his head, his gaze steady but questioning.

“I know, I know,” Ashley said, throwing her hands in the air. “It’s awesome in theory, but in practice? What if I’d screwed it up? What if those Ghost-types Erika mentioned couldn’t find anything? Or what if Team Rocket did find out I was the one who squealed?!” She gestured wildly, nearly smacking a passing trainer with her elbow. “Like, what am I supposed to do if a Rocket admin shows up looking for revenge? Hide behind Proserpina’s Sleep Powder and hope for the best?”

The trainer gave her a weird look but quickly moved on, muttering something about dramatic kids. Ashley ignored them, leaning forward to rest her elbows on her knees.

“I mean, sure, Erika said no one else knows, but still… this is Team Rocket we’re talking about. Those guys have resources. And me? I’m just a kid.”

Mars let out a low hum, nudging her shoulder again.

“Yeah, yeah, I know you’re tough,” Ashley said with a small smile, scratching Mars’ head. “But this whole thing… it’s just a little too big, y’know? Like, I wanted to stay here and train with Erika—she knows her stuff, and Proserpina could really learn from her team—but after this? Nah. I’m out. No way am I sticking around Celadon while the dust from that raid is still settling.”

She leaned back again, pulling her PokéNav out of her pocket and flipping it open. Erika’s number was already saved, sitting at the top of her contacts list. Ashley stared at it for a moment, her thumb hovering over the call button.

“If I need advice on Proserpina, I can just call her,” she said aloud, as if trying to convince herself. “I don’t have to be here for that. Right?”

Mars gave a small nod, as if agreeing, and Ashley let out a sigh of relief. “Thanks, buddy. You’re the voice of reason I never knew I needed.”

The ding of the Center’s machines caught her attention, and Nurse Joy reappeared with her tray of Poké Balls. “Your team is all healed up and ready to go!”

Ashley stood, grabbing the Pok Balls and clipping them back onto her belt. “Thanks, Nurse Joy. You’re a lifesaver.”

She turned toward the stairs, Mars following closely behind. As she stepped into the private area where all the rooms were located, Ashley felt herself relax.

“Okay,” she said, adjusting her hat and giving Mars a determined grin. “One good night’s sleep, and then we’re outta here. Next stop… I dunno, anywhere that doesn’t involve Team Rocket or secret lairs. Sound good?”

Mars let out an enthusiastic growl, and Ashley laughed, patting his head as they entered their room.

Chapter Text

Ashley had set in the clearing for the day. Ashley sat cross-legged on her sleeping bag, a TM case open in her lap. She held the Giga Drain TM disc carefully between her fingers, its surface gleaming faintly in the firelight.

"Alright, Neptune," she said, looking up at her Lapras, who was lounging comfortably in the grass nearby. His sleek shell glimmered faintly under the sun, his large, gentle eyes focused on her with curiosity. "Time to teach you something new—Giga Drain. It’s going to give you an edge when things get tough."

Neptune let out a melodic trill, bobbing his head in understanding, allowing Ashley to press the TM against his forehead. There was a light glow, before Neptune shook his head in disorientation. Before Ashley could get started, Proserpina waddled into view, her stubby legs kicking up faint puffs of dust as she approached the Lapras with purpose. The Gloom’s petals swayed slightly, and her expression carried an intensity that made Ashley blink in surprise.

"Uh, Proserpina?" Ashley raised an eyebrow. "You okay there?"

Proserpina didn’t respond directly. Instead, she pointed one of her leaves at the TM in Ashley’s hand, then at Neptune. Her intent was clear.

Ashley tilted her head, confused but intrigued. "Wait, you want to help him master the move yourself?"

Proserpina nodded firmly, her petals quivering as if to emphasize her point.

"Alright then." Ashley held up her hands in surrender, a small grin tugging at her lips. "You know Giga Drain better than anyone else on the team. If you think you’ve got this, go for it."

Neptune let out a soft hum, tilting his head as he watched Proserpina shuffle closer. The Lapras seemed curious, his large eyes following every deliberate movement of the Gloom.

Proserpina turned to Neptune, her petals drooping slightly, and let out a quiet hum of her own. Ashley could see it now—there was something more going on here. Proserpina wasn’t just eager to teach; she was still processing her loss to Erika’s Weepinbell. The usually easygoing Gloom carried a weight today, and Ashley chose not to interfere. Whatever was driving Proserpina, it was important enough for her to take charge.

Proserpina raised her stubby arms and began to sway gently, demonstrating the glowing green tendrils of energy that emanated from her petals. The soft hum she emitted grew into a deeper, resonant sound, and the tendrils reached out toward a small bush nearby. The moment they connected, the plant seemed to wither slightly as energy flowed back into Proserpina, causing her petals to glow faintly brighter.

Neptune blinked, watching intently. Proserpina repeated the process, this time slower, her movements more deliberate. The tendrils glowed vividly in the dim light, almost hypnotic in their movement. She then gestured with her leaves, motioning for Neptune to try.

The Lapras hesitated for a moment, his gaze shifting between Proserpina and the bush. He let out a questioning trill, unsure if he could replicate the move.

"You’ve got this, Neptune," Ashley encouraged, leaning forward slightly. "Just focus and follow her lead."

Proserpina nodded, her expression softening as she hummed again, urging Neptune to attempt the move. The Lapras closed his eyes, his body glowing faintly as he concentrated. Slowly, tendrils of green energy began to form, wavering unsteadily at first.

"That’s it!" Ashley cheered, her hands clapping softly. "Keep it steady, big guy!"

Neptune’s tendrils reached out, connecting with the bush. The transfer of energy was shaky, the tendrils flickering like a weak flame, but they managed to draw a faint pulse of energy back toward him. The bush drooped slightly, its leaves losing some of their vibrancy.

Proserpina’s petals perked up, and she let out an approving hum, her stubby arms gesturing for Neptune to try again. This time, she demonstrated with exaggerated movements, emphasizing the rhythm of the attack.

Neptune mimicked her motions, his body glowing brighter as he found his rhythm. The tendrils formed more confidently, wrapping around the bush with a steadiness that hadn’t been there before. The energy transfer was smoother now, and Neptune’s shell gleamed faintly as he absorbed the energy.

"Yes!" Ashley leapt to her feet, grinning ear to ear. "That’s it, Neptune! You nailed it!"

Neptune let out a triumphant cry, his eyes sparkling with pride. Proserpina stepped back, her petals swaying as she hummed contentedly. The tension in her posture seemed to ease, and for the first time that night, she looked genuinely at peace.

Ashley crouched beside Proserpina, giving her a gentle pat on the head. "You did a great job, can you keep it up? I think I can leave him in your hands."

Proserpina gave a soft chirp, nudging Ashley’s hand with her petals before waddling back toward the fire. Neptune, still glowing faintly from the successful Giga Drain, followed, his melodic hum blending with the crackle of the fire.

Ashley watched them both with a smile, feeling a swell of pride for her team. As she sat back down, her heart felt lighter, as she watched her team growing, supporting each other, and becoming stronger together.

Ashley leaned back against the trunk of a large tree, her legs stretched out in front of her as she let the cool shade wash over her. The sun was relentless today, and even with the faint breeze blowing across Route 8, the heat was enough to make her shirt stick to her back. She tugged at the collar, fanning herself with her cap as Neptune and Proserpina continued their training.

Ashley sighed, pulling her PokéNav from her bag. She hadn’t called her dad in a couple of days, and the Game Corner situation had been nagging at the back of her mind ever since she first reported it. With a quick swipe, she pulled up his contact and hit the call button.

The familiar ringtone buzzed before the screen lit up with her dad’s face. His Ranger uniform was visible in the background, along with the faint sound of commotion—probably a busy day at the outpost.

"Hey, kiddo!" His voice was warm and energetic, but Ashley didn’t miss the hint of weariness in his eyes. "How’s Celadon treating you? Got that badge yet?"

Ashley chuckled, leaning her head back against the tree. "Got it. Erika’s no joke, but we managed it. I am out of the city already, on Route 8 to Saffron City. But I wanted to ask about the Pokémon from the Game Corner. How’s everything going with that?"

Her dad’s expression shifted, his usual light-hearted demeanor replaced with something heavier. He let out a long breath, rubbing the back of his neck. "Well, I’ll be honest with you, Ashy—it’s a mess. A real bureaucratic nightmare."

Ashley frowned, sitting up straighter. "How bad are we talking?"

"Pretty bad," he admitted, his tone growing more serious. "There are so many rare Pokémon involved—stuff you don’t usually see outside of their home regions. We’re talking Bagon, Larvitar, and even some Fossil Pokémon. They were clearly being trafficked for big money, but now the question is, what do we do with them?"

Ashley tilted her head, confusion knitting her brows. "What do you mean? Can’t you just send them back to their regions?"

Her dad let out another sigh, shaking his head. "It’s not that simple. A lot of these Pokémon have been in captivity for who knows how long. Some of them aren’t fit to be released into the wild—not yet, anyway. They need rehabilitation first. But then there’s the other issue: do we rehabilitate them here or send them back to their regions and let the local authorities handle it?"

Ashley’s lips pressed into a thin line. She could feel the frustration radiating through the screen, and it made her stomach twist. "So, what’s the hold-up? Why not just decide?"

Her dad laughed, but it was humorless. "Because, Ashley, this is the world of paperwork. Every region has its own protocols, its own way of handling things. Johto’s Rangers want the Johto-native Pokémon back immediately, but Hoenn’s officials are saying they’d rather wait until the Pokémon are healthy. Then you’ve got Kalos chiming in about how certain species might need specialized care. Everyone’s arguing over what’s best, and in the meantime, those poor Pokémon are stuck in limbo."

Ashley’s hand tightened around the PokéNav. "That’s ridiculous! They’re Pokémon, not some kind of... of international trade goods! Why can’t everyone just work together for once?"

Her dad gave her a wry smile. "You sound like a true Ranger, Ashley. Maybe you’ll follow in my footsteps after all."

Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn’t help the small smile tugging at her lips. "Yeah, well, someone’s gotta have some common sense around here."

He chuckled, his tone softening. "I know it’s frustrating. But the good news is, they’re safe now. We’ve got some of our best people on this. They’ll get the care they need—it’s just going to take time."

Ashley leaned back again, her fingers tapping against the edge of the PokéNav. "I just... I can’t stop thinking about it. What if we hadn’t noticed? What if they were still there?"

Her dad’s expression softened, a mixture of pride and concern in his eyes. "But you did notice, Ashy. You saw something wrong and acted on it. That’s more than most people would’ve done. And because of you, those Pokémon have a chance at a better life."

Ashley let the words sink in, her chest loosening slightly as the tension began to ebb away. She glanced over at her team—Vulcan dozing peacefully, Venus absently plucking at a blade of grass—and felt a small surge of determination.

"Yeah," she said softly, more to herself than anyone. "I guess you’re right."

Her dad grinned. "Of course I’m right. That’s my job. Now, you focus on your journey and let me handle the paperwork, okay?"

"Deal," Ashley said, a faint laugh escaping her. "But don’t think I’m letting you off the hook. I want updates."

"You’ll be the first to know, kiddo. Promise." He gave her a quick salute before glancing off-screen. "Looks like duty calls. Talk soon, alright?"

"Yeah. Thanks, Dad." Ashley ended the call and let out a long breath, her shoulders relaxing as she ended the call and slipped her PokéNav into her bag, her mind still swirling with the weight of her father’s words. She leaned back against the tree and exhaled deeply, letting the cool shade soothe her.

And then she froze.

Something warm and surprisingly heavy was draped around her shoulders. For a split second, her instincts screamed danger, but then she caught sight of the familiar, smooth blue scales curling just under her chin.

“Apollo!” Ashley yelped, craning her neck to get a better look at the Dratini. “When did you—? Seriously?”

Apollo, clearly unbothered by her sudden alarm, let out a soft coo and nuzzled her cheek, his serpentine body snugly wrapped around her like a scarf. His bright eyes blinked at her innocently, as if to say, What’s the problem?

Ashley snorted, shaking her head. “Oh, so this is your thing now, huh? You’re gonna be a scarf? Should I add you to my outfit? Call it the ‘Dragon Wrap’ look?”

Apollo hummed, his tail giving a small flick as he adjusted himself to sit more comfortably around her shoulders. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh, reaching up to scratch the spot under his chin that always made him wriggle with delight.

“You’re ridiculous, you know that?” she teased, her tone light but fond. “But, hey, at least you’re cute. Fashionable and functional.”

Apollo’s tail thumped lightly against her shoulder in what she could only interpret as agreement.

Ashley shifted her position slightly, leaning forward to rest her arms on her knees. Her gaze drifted toward the horizon, where the faint outline of Saffron City was just visible beyond the hills. The memory of her dad’s words lingered, and for a moment, the laughter faded.

“Man, I really wish I could’ve seen those Pokémon,” she murmured, mostly to herself but loud enough that Apollo let out a questioning trill. “I mean, it’s not every day you hear about a Larvitar or a Fossil Pokémon just... sitting in some shady Game Corner.”

Apollo tilted his head, his body tightening slightly around her neck as if he sensed her mixed emotions.

Ashley sighed, running a hand through her damp hair. “But, yeah, I get it. They’ve been through a lot. Probably way more than I can even imagine. They don’t need some rookie trainer like me dragging them around the region. They need stability, y’know? A place to heal.”

Her fingers absentmindedly scratched Apollo’s scales as she spoke. “Still... it sucks. Feels like there’s so much I can’t do yet. But at least they’re in good hands now, right? That’s what matters.”

Apollo gave a soft chirp, his tail flicking against her cheek in what felt like reassurance. Ashley smiled, the tension in her chest easing slightly.

“And hey,” she added, her grin turning mischievous, “at least I didn’t walk away empty-handed. That reward money from ratting out the Game Corner intel? Oh, it’s so good.”

She leaned back against the tree again, her grin widening as she thought about the payout. “Seriously, that shopping spree in Celadon? Covered. And I’ve got plenty left over for supplies, too. It’s like I hit the jackpot twice.”

Apollo cooed, and Ashley could’ve sworn the Dratini looked smug, his head held high as if he’d played some part in her success.

“Don’t you start taking credit,” she said, poking him lightly in the side. “Unless you secretly hacked into their security system, that cash was all me.”

Apollo’s response was to nuzzle her cheek again, clearly unbothered by her teasing. Ashley laughed, the sound ringing out into the quiet of the clearing. For the first time since leaving Celadon, she felt lighter, the heaviness of the past few days finally starting to fade.

She reached up and gently adjusted Apollo, letting him slide off her shoulders and into her lap. “Alright, buddy,” she said, her tone soft but determined. “Break time’s over. Let’s head back to camp. We’ve got a lot more to do before we hit Saffron.”

Apollo let out a cheerful cry, his body coiling slightly as if ready to spring into action. Ashley stood, dusting off her shorts and slipping her cap back onto her head. She looked down at her Pokémon with a smile.

“C’mon, scarf boy,” she teased, slinging her bag over her shoulder. “Let’s show the rest of the team what we’ve been up to.”

With Apollo trailing close behind, his scales glinting in the sunlight, Ashley set off toward camp, ready to tackle whatever came next. Ashley settled herself at the edge of camp, her PokéNav in hand, the screen glowing softly as she skimmed through the messages Erika had sent her. Apollo was curled up beside her, his serpentine body coiled like a spring, while Mars lounged near the fire. But Ashley’s mind buzzed too much for rest.

She squinted at the screen, scrolling through Erika’s advice. The Grass-type Gym Leader’s words were precise, almost elegant in how she described each move and its potential. Erika was explaining how difficult it was for Proserpina to show off her abilities, when most of her repertoire relied on status effect moves. Erika advised expanding her moveset with Magical Leaf, Seed Bomb, and Grassy Terrain.

Ashley tapped her chin, her thumb idly scrolling back up. “Magical Leaf, huh? Sounds like a guaranteed hit move might save us from another Vine Whip situation,” she muttered. “Erika’s right. If we rely too much on poison clouds and spores, we’re gonna hit a wall eventually. Seed Bomb could give her a real punch. And Grassy Terrain? She’d be setting the stage for the whole team.”

Ashley smirked, leaning back against a tree trunk. “We’ll start working on these moves as soon as we hit Saffron. Speaking of—” She clicked open another message from Erika, her brows lifting as she read. “There’s a Contest in Saffron next week. She’s practically daring us to show up.”

Apollo perked up at that, his head tilting. Ashley patted bellow his chin until he purred, before taking out her notebook. The PokéNav has an app that allows you to take notes, but Ashley has always preferred to write by hand. There’s something about the touch of paper.  

Ashley tapped the end of her pencil against the edge of her notebook, her thoughts spiraling into a plan. The warm glow of the campfire flickered across the page as she sketched out her ideas, the faint scratch of lead on paper mingling with the soft crackle of burning wood. Apollo coiled himself around Ashley’s shoulders again, his cool, smooth scales comforting as he peered curiously at the notebook. Mars was curled up closer to the fire, his tail flame casting playful shadows against the trees.

"Alright," Ashley said, breaking the silence, "if we’re gonna make this work, it’s gotta be something that really stands out. Proserpina is not just competing—she is making a statement.”

"I thought of Grassy Terrain. It’s bright, it’s lively, and it gets the stage looking like a natural masterpiece. But it does not show anything from part of the Pokémon. The judges will expect the coordinators to create a Grassy Terrain-worthy garden from a combination of different moves, not just with one more." Ashley continued, her voice turning thoughtful. "Also, Seed Bomb on its own is not very impactful for the appeal round. Maybe if combined with Grassy Terrain, but we’ve only got a week. So, we have to focus—no overcomplicating things. We should focus on only teaching Proserpina one move."

“And I think Magical Leaf is the move to do it." Ashley scrawled down the words, underlining Magical Leaf three times. "See, this move has got it all—precision, flashiness, and no chance of missing. It’s practically begging to be part of an appeal."

Apollo let out a soft trill, leaning over her shoulder to flick his tail across the page, as if he were approving of the plan. Mars snorted lightly in his sleep, his ears twitching as if he were somehow still following the conversation.

Ashley sat back down, flipping to a fresh page in her notebook to jot down a rough training schedule. The fire crackled softly, and the night stretched out around them, calm and serene. As she wrote, her mind buzzed with excitement. This wasn’t just about winning a ribbon—it was about rebuilding Proserpina’s confidence and showing the world what her team could do.

Ashley tapped her pencil against her chin, her notebook balanced on her knee as she lounged near the campfire. The soft glow of embers lit her face, while her team relaxed around her. Venus sprawled out by her side, her soft tail twitching with the occasional crackle of the fire, while Vulcan sat nearby, his ears flicking every so often at the distant sound of wild Pokémon. Neptune rested closer to the edge of the clearing, his shell reflecting the firelight as he watched Ashley quietly, his melodic hum almost lulling everyone into a sense of calm.

“Alright,” Ashley muttered, her eyes narrowed in thought as she stared at the page in front of her. She had the appeal round locked in for Proserpina. Now came the harder part—who to pick for the battle round? Her gaze drifted toward Venus, the little Eevee grooming herself lazily but with an unmistakable air of pride.

Ashley smirked. “You’ve been killing it lately, huh, girl?” she said, ruffling the Eevee’s soft fur. Venus let out a chirp of agreement, nuzzling Ashley’s hand in response.

“No kidding,” Ashley continued, more to herself now. “Iron Tail? Last Resort? And don’t even get me started on Wish. You’re practically a powerhouse.” She paused, scratching the back of her head. “But you already crushed it in a contest before. Should I let you have another go, or save you for Erika’s gym?”

Venus paused her grooming, tilting her head curiously as if waiting for Ashley to elaborate. Vulcan gave a huff from his spot by the fire, clearly unimpressed by the indecision.

“Don’t start,” Ashley said, waving him off. “This is strategy, not second-guessing.”

Her gaze flickered to Neptune. The Lapras sat serenely, his deep blue eyes reflecting the stars above. He’d been a standout in the Celadon gym battle, but unlike Venus, he hadn’t stepped into the contest spotlight yet. His strength was undeniable—he could handle the variability of battle rounds in a contest if she gave him the right prep.

“Neptune could take it,” she said aloud, her pencil hovering over his name in her notebook. “He’s got that natural grace, and we’ve been working on his Ice Beam. If I polish his transitions, he could wow the judges. But... Venus is so quick. She’s got the agility to adapt to weird combos.”

Apollo, curled around her neck like a scarf, gave a soft trill, his tail flicking idly against her arm. Ashley reached up to pat him absently. “You’re out of this one, buddy. Contests are all about versatility, and you’re still growing. Don’t worry, you’ll get your time. Maybe after you evolve.”

Apollo gave a soft chirp of understanding, nestling closer against her neck. His cool scales were soothing, even as Ashley continued to wrestle with her options.

“Here’s the thing,” she said, leaning back and addressing her team. “If Venus does the gym, it makes sense to let Neptune try the contest. He’s never done one, and he could really surprise everyone. Plus, Venus can handle the pressure of a gym battle. But...” She trailed off, chewing on the end of her pencil.

Vulcan rolled his eyes—or at least, Ashley swore he did. “Don’t give me that look,” she teased, tossing a small pebble in his direction. “It’s called planning.”

Venus sat up straighter, her tail swishing with renewed vigor as if to remind Ashley she was still a top contender. Neptune, ever patient, let out a soft hum, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to Venus’s playful energy.

“Alright, fine,” Ashley said, tossing her pencil down with a sigh. “Proserpina does the appeal, Neptune gets the contest battle rounds. Venus, you’re taking on Sabrina with the rest of the team. No complaints.”

Venus chirped happily, bouncing in place, while Neptune inclined his head slightly, as if acknowledging the challenge with quiet dignity. Proserpina, however, shifted awkwardly on her stubby legs, her gaze dropping to the ground. Her petals quivered slightly, and Ashley could tell by the way she avoided eye contact that something was bothering her.

Ashley straightened, resting her hands on her hips as she tilted her head. “Proserpina? What’s up?”

The Gloom let out a low hum, her petals drooping ever so slightly. She shuffled in place, her hesitation clear as day. Neptune and Venus exchanged glances, with Venus giving Proserpina a gentle nudge of encouragement.

Ashley crouched back down, her expression softening. “Hey, come on, talk to me,” she said gently. “You’ve been through way tougher stuff than this. I mean, you’re the queen of status moves! This appeal round is gonna be perfect for you.”

Proserpina didn’t look convinced. She let out another hum, this one tinged with doubt, and turned her head slightly to avoid Ashley’s gaze.

Ashley sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. “Alright,” she said, sitting cross-legged in front of her Pokémon. “Let’s get real for a second. I know Erika’s Weepinbell was rough. And yeah, the Venomoth before too. But you’ve grown so much since then, Proserpina. You’ve been training like crazy. You even taught Neptune Giga Drain! That’s not nothing.”

The Gloom glanced up at her trainer, her eyes softening slightly, though the doubt still lingered. Ashley grinned, leaning forward to poke one of Proserpina’s petals. “Look, this isn’t just about winning. It’s about showing everyone what you’ve got. And trust me, you’ve got a lot. You’re gonna make that appeal round look like a piece of cake.”

Venus chimed in with an enthusiastic chirp, hopping up to bump Proserpina lightly with her head. Neptune hummed his agreement, his calm, steady presence adding weight to Venus’s encouragement.

“See?” Ashley said, gesturing to the others. “We all believe in you. Now it’s your turn. What do you say?”

Proserpina hesitated for another moment, her petals trembling faintly. Then, with a deep breath, she straightened her posture, her petals lifting as a faint glow returned to her leaves. She let out a determined hum, nodding firmly at Ashley.

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Ashley said, her grin widening. She reached out to scratch Proserpina lightly under her petals, earning a soft, pleased hum from the Grass-type. “You’re gonna crush this. I can feel it.”

Venus let out another chirp, hopping onto Ashley’s lap and wagging her tail as if to say, What about me? Ashley laughed, ruffling the Eevee’s fur. “Don’t worry, you’re gonna crush it too, Miss Gym Challenger.”

Neptune rumbled softly, and Ashley turned her attention to the Lapras. “And you, big guy. Battle rounds are all about poise and precision. You’ve got both in spades. I just need you to show it off.”

Neptune dipped his head in acknowledgment, his serene confidence grounding the group.

“Okay,” she said, standing and stretching. “Let’s call it a night. Tomorrow, we hit the ground running. Proserpina’s got appeal practice, and Neptune? You’re learning how to strut your stuff in battle rounds. Venus, get ready to face some Grass-types. I need all of you at your best.”

Her team responded with soft cries and determined nods, their confidence feeding into Ashley’s own. As she packed up her notebook, she felt a flicker of excitement. The Saffron contest and gym battle loomed ahead, but with a solid plan and her team behind her, she was ready for whatever came next.

The week of training on Route 8 that followed had been grueling but rewarding. As Ashley approached the gates of Saffron City, she couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride and excitement. Proserpina’s Magical Leaf was razor-sharp and precise, Neptune’s battling reflexes had significantly improved, and Venus had mastered the flow of her Wish-Iron Tail-Last Resort combo. Her team was coming together beautifully.

When she arrived at the Pokémon Center, her first stop was the front desk. “Hi, Nurse Joy!” she greeted, offering her Trainer ID. “Can I get a room, heal up my Pokémon, and sign up for the Saffron Contest?”

Nurse Joy smiled warmly as she took Ashley’s ID. “Of course! Welcome to Saffron City. Let me get you all set up.” She handed Ashley a registration form for the contest. “While I’m healing your Pokémon, go ahead and fill this out. The Contest Hall is expecting a lot of participants this time, so it’s best to sign up early.”

Ashley nodded eagerly, thanking Nurse Joy as she grabbed the form and a pen. She plopped down at a nearby table, scribbling her details while occasionally glancing at the Poké Balls resting on the counter. Just as she was about to finish, a sudden movement made her freeze. Something yanked her hat off her head.

“Hey!” she yelped, spinning around in her chair. Her eyes landed on a grinning Haunter floating a few feet away, holding her hat in his ghostly claws. The mischievous Pokémon waggled his tongue at her, clearly enjoying its prank.

“Oh, come on,” Ashley groaned, standing up and placing her hands on her hips. “Give it back, you spooky little thief!”

A familiar laugh rang out behind her. “You’re still fun to mess with, huh?”

Ashley turned sharply, her eyes narrowing as she recognized the figure leaning casually against the doorframe. It was the same trainer she’d met shortly back on Cinnabar Island. His dark hoodie was slung loosely over one shoulder, and his Haunter floated beside him, holding her hat like a trophy.

“You again?” Ashley huffed, though she couldn’t help the small smirk tugging at her lips. “Did I not tell you to keep that Haunter in check?”

The trainer chuckled, his Haunter drifting over to place the hat back on Ashley’s head. “What can I say? You’re a good sport.” He crossed his arms, his grin widening. “So, how’s that cute little Charmander of yours?”

Ashley adjusted her hat, smoothing her hair underneath it as she answered proudly. “Mars is doing great. He’s a Charmeleon now, and he’s with Nurse Joy getting healed up.”

The trainer let out a low whistle, clearly impressed. “Charmeleon, huh? Sounds like you’ve been putting in some serious work.” He gave her a mock salute. “Guess I’ll have to watch my back. See you at the Contest Hall.”

With that, he turned and strode out of the Pokémon Center, his Haunter following close behind, giggling as he floated through the wall. Ashley stood there for a moment, blinking in surprise. “What just happened?” she muttered to herself. “Seems like he is a coordinator too…”

Returning to her seat, Ashley shook her head, trying to shake off her confusion as she finished the form. When Nurse Joy returned with her Pokémon, Ashley thanked her and slipped the registration form across the counter. “All set! Thanks, Nurse Joy.”

As she clipped her Poké Balls back onto her belt, she couldn’t help but glance at the door, half-expecting the trainer and his Haunter to pop back in. When they didn’t, she sighed and looked down at her team. “Alright, guys. Saffron Contest, here we come. Let’s show them what we’ve got!”

The next day, Ashley arrived at the Saffron Contest Hall with her team in tow. The grand building sparkled in the sunlight, its intricate architecture giving off an air of elegance. Ashley adjusted her fuchsia kimono, the silver leaf designs shimmering as they caught the light. She had tied her hair into an elegant bun, secured with a delicate sakura blossom pin—her trademark Contest look.

“Alright, girl,” she said, looking down at Proserpina. “This is our big day. Let’s show Saffron what we’re made of!” Proserpina gave a confident sway of her petals, though there was still a hint of nervousness in her expression.

As they entered the Contest Hall, the air was buzzing with excitement. Trainers and their Pokémon moved about in a flurry of preparation. Some were practicing moves, others were adjusting costumes or accessories, and a few were seated in quiet corners, mentally preparing for the competition. Ashley’s eyes darted around, taking in the energy of the room, when she spotted a familiar face—or rather, a familiar ghostly grin.

There he was, the mysterious trainer from the Pokémon Center, standing near the door with his Haunter floating mischievously by his side. But this time, his usual laid-back vibe was replaced by something more dramatic. He wore a black suit with a high collar, a flowing cape draped over one shoulder, and a white half-mask covering one side of his face. If Ashley hadn’t known better, she would’ve thought he’d walked straight out of a play—Phantom of the Opera, anyone?

Ashley let out a short laugh, unable to help herself. “Well, if it isn’t Mr. Theatrics,” she muttered under her breath. She strode toward him, her kimono swishing softly as she walked. “Ashley Ketchum.”

The trainer turned at the sound of her voice, his mask glinting under the Contest Hall’s bright lights. His lips curled into a smirk. “Damian Hart,” he said, his voice carrying a smooth, almost playful tone. He gestured to Proserpina, who was standing close to Ashley’s feet, “I’m guessing today’s star isn’t your Charmeleon.”

Ashley shook her head, crouching to gently pat Proserpina’s petals. “Nope. This is Proserpina’s time to shine. We’re going for elegance and precision.”

Damian raised an eyebrow, his Haunter cackling beside him. “Interesting. I’ll be watching closely.”

Before Ashley could respond, Lillian stepped onto the stage and addressed the crowd. “Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Saffron City Pokémon Contest! Today’s competitors are some of the region’s finest, and they’re here to dazzle us with their skill, creativity, and the bond they share with their Pokémon!”

The audience erupted into cheers, the sound reverberating through the hall. Ashley felt her heart pound with excitement and nerves as Damian adjusted his cape and flashed her a grin. “Showtime,” he said simply, before turning and heading onto stage. His Haunter floated after him, spinning in the air with an eerie giggle.

Ashley watched him go, rolling her eyes but smiling all the same. “He’s so dramatic. It’s like he’s performing before he even gets on stage.”

“Gloom?” Proserpina tilted her head, clearly unsure what to make of Damian and his ghostly companion.

“Don’t worry about them,” Ashley said, giving Proserpina a reassuring smile. “We’ve got our own performance to focus on. And it’s going to blow them away.”

A short while later, Ashley found herself backstage, waiting for her turn. Damian’s name was called, and she sat at the bench to watch his performance by the TV. The stage was bathed in dim, flickering light, casting long shadows that danced across the walls. Haunter floated to the center, his eerie grin and glowing eyes amplified by the dramatic lighting.

“Night Shade,” Damian commanded, his voice carrying a smooth confidence.

Haunter’s eyes glowed a sinister red, and the stage was consumed by dark, swirling energy. Shapes began to form in the darkness—phantom figures that twisted and writhed, their ghostly forms both terrifying and mesmerizing. The audience gasped, some leaning forward in their seats while others shivered at the haunting display.

“Hypnosis,” Damian said, his tone lower this time, almost a whisper.

Haunter’s eyes shimmered again, casting rings of pale light that spun outward, creating a hypnotic effect. The phantom shapes moved in time with the rings, their motions synchronized like a haunting ballet. It was eerie yet oddly beautiful, the kind of performance that left an impression long after it ended.

As Haunter finished with a dramatic Shadow Ball that exploded in midair like dark fireworks, the crowd erupted into cheers. Damian bowed slightly, his cape sweeping behind him as he exited the stage with a flourish.

Backstage, Ashley let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. “Okay. That was... something.”

“Gloom,” Proserpina murmured, glancing at Ashley with wide eyes.

Ashley crouched down, resting a hand on her Pokémon’s head. “Hey, don’t let it rattle you. We’ve got a whole different vibe, and it’s going to be just as good. Trust me.” Proserpina straightened, nodding firmly. Ashley smiled, feeling a surge of pride. “That’s my girl. Let’s show them what real teamwork looks like.”

Ashley made her way to the stage, her heart pounding, but for once, it wasn’t from nerves. She was excited. The energy of the Contest Hall buzzed around her as Lillian called her name. “And now, please welcome Ashley Ketchum from Pallet Town to the stage!”

She took a deep breath and adjusted the pin holding her hair in place. “Alright, Proserpina, this is our moment,” she whispered, holding up Proserpina’s Poké Ball. With a flick of her wrist, she released her Pokémon onto the stage.

Proserpina appeared in a dazzling burst of light, surrounded by a flurry of shimmering petals. The crowd gasped in awe as the little Gloom waddled forward, her confidence already shining through. Ashley stepped into the spotlight, her fuchsia kimono catching the light of the arena.

“Let’s get started, Proserpina!” Ashley called, her voice steady and sure. “Sweet Scent!”

Proserpina swayed her stubby arms, releasing a soft, shimmering mist into the air. The scent was rich and intoxicating, carrying hints of blooming flowers and honey. The petals from her entrance began to swirl in the air, carried by the fragrant wind. The mist sparkled under the stage lights, catching the audience’s attention and pulling them into the performance.

“Beautiful!” Ashley cheered. “Now, Magical Leaf!”

Proserpina’s petals glowed faintly before glowing shards of energy shot into the air, swirling through the mist. The Magical Leaves arced gracefully, weaving between the petals as if performing a synchronized dance. The colors were vibrant, a mix of emerald greens and soft purples, creating a stunning visual contrast against the golden light of the stage.

The audience murmured in awe, leaning forward in their seats.

Ashley grinned. “Time to step it up—Stun Spore!”

Proserpina shook her petals, releasing a fine, golden dust that spread through the air. The glittering spores caught the Magical Leaves and petals mid-flight, halting their motion as if time itself had paused. The stage transformed into a surreal tableau: frozen leaves and petals hung in midair, shimmering under the lights, the entire scene resembling a starlit night frozen in time.

The crowd was silent for a moment, then gasped in amazement.

Ashley’s voice rang out with confidence. “Now, Sunny Day!”

Proserpina raised her face to the ceiling, releasing a glowing orb of light that shot upward. It burst high above the stage, casting the entire arena in a radiant golden glow. The light illuminated the frozen arrangement of petals and leaves, revealing the intricate design Ashley and Proserpina had planned—a breathtaking bouquet etched against the ceiling, as if painted by nature itself.

The crowd erupted into cheers, applause echoing through the Contest Hall. Ashley looked out at the audience, but her focus wasn’t on the applause or the judges’ reactions. Instead, she watched Proserpina, who stood at the center of the stage, basking in the golden light of her own creation.

For the first time since their battles with Erika, Proserpina’s posture was confident, her petals swaying proudly. This wasn’t just a win for the Contest; it was a win for her.

Ashley stood, raising her hand with a grin. “Let’s hear it for Proserpina!”

The crowd’s cheers grew louder, and Proserpina turned to face them, her petals glowing faintly with the residual sunlight. For the first time, she didn’t flinch under the attention. Instead, she seemed to bloom under it.

As they left the stage, Ashley caught sight of Damian backstage. His arms were crossed, and his Haunter floated lazily beside him, but there was no denying the impressed smirk on his face.

“Not bad,” Damian said as Ashley passed.

Ashley tilted her head, her grin playful. “Not bad? Please, that was incredible.”

Damian chuckled. “Fair enough. Let’s see how it holds up in the rankings.”

Ashley waved him off as she turned to Proserpina. “Don’t let him get in your head. You’ve already won where it matters.”

Proserpina chirped in agreement, her confidence unshaken as they prepared for the next round.

Ashley moved to stand among the bustling trainers and their Pokémon, the air electric with anticipation. The TV in the center of the room lit up, displaying the rankings from the appeal round. The crowd around her hushed as names began to scroll.

First Place: Damian and Haunter.
Second Place: Ashley and Proserpina.

Ashley’s eyes widened, and she couldn’t stop the grin spreading across her face. “Second place!” she whispered, turning to Proserpina, who stood beside her with her petals swaying lightly. “We did it!”

Proserpina chirped, puffing herself up as if to say, Of course we did.

Damian, leaning casually against the wall nearby, turned at the sound of Ashley’s voice. His smirk was already firmly in place as he straightened up and sauntered over. His Haunter floated behind him, his mischievous grin matching his trainer’s.

“Well, well,” Damian drawled, gesturing lazily at the screen. “Looks like you’re right behind me, fuchsia girl. Second place, huh?”

Ashley crossed her arms, tilting her head at him. “Don’t sound too surprised. We came to win, remember?”

Damian chuckled, the sound low and confident. “Winning’s good and all, but you’re gonna have to go through the battle rounds first. You think you can handle it?”

Ashley’s grin didn’t falter. “Oh, I’m not just handling it. I’m coming for you in the finals.”

Damian raised an eyebrow, impressed by her boldness, and clapped his hands once, the sound sharp and echoing through the room. “That’s what I like to hear. Bring your A-game, though. I don’t want any excuses when my team wipe the floor with you.”

Ashley rolled her eyes, waving him off. “Yeah, yeah. Talk all you want. I’m not the one hiding behind scary faces and cheap tricks.”

“Cheap tricks?” Damian scoffed, his smirk widening. “Haunter, did you hear that? She thinks we’re cheap.”

Haunter laughed, his voice echoing eerily as he spun in a circle around Damian, waving his claws for dramatic effect.

Ashley pointed at them, her tone playful but firm. “Oh, I heard it. And you’d better hear this: we’re not scared of you. We’re making it to the finals, and when we do, you’ll see just how far a little teamwork and creativity can go.”

Proserpina nodded along, her petals puffing slightly as if to emphasize Ashley’s point.

Damian shrugged, but the gleam in his eye said he was looking forward to the challenge. “Alright, fuchsia girl. Let’s see if you can back that up.”

Before Ashley could respond, Lillian’s voice boomed through the speakers, calling trainers to prepare for the first battle round. The room buzzed with activity as trainers rushed to check on their Pokémon and finalize their strategies.

Damian gave Ashley a lazy salute as he turned to leave. “Don’t choke,” he called over his shoulder.

Ashley stuck her tongue out at his back. “Don’t trip over your ego!” she shot back, earning a laugh from a few nearby trainers who overheard.

Turning to Proserpina, Ashley knelt and placed a hand gently on her petals. “Alright, Proserpina, your part’s done, and you nailed it. Time to rest up. Let’s cheer Neptune on in the battle rounds, yeah?”

Proserpina let out a happy hum, her confidence shining brighter than ever as Ashley returned her to her Poké Ball. Standing up, Ashley grabbed the next Poké Ball from her belt, holding it tightly in her hand. Her reflection in its polished surface stared back at her, determined.

“You ready for this, Neptune?” she whispered to the ball before stepping toward the arena entrance, the roar of the crowd growing louder with every step.

The battle rounds came and went, Damian used his Tyrogue to make it to the finals, while Ashley and Neptune crushed the competition to the top. Neptune was truly becoming a moving fortress, who was so much like the myths of his namesake and the sea. Sweet at times, whenever he is not battling, and a terror at other times, a true weather nightmare in battle. In between battles.

Backstage, Ashley leaned against the cool metal wall of the Contest Hall’s waiting area, trying to steady her breathing. The buzz of activity from earlier rounds had died down, replaced by an almost eerie quiet. Only two trainers remained now: her and Damian.

Neptune rested in a corner, his serene expression belying the powerhouse he had proven himself to be in the battle rounds. His shell gleamed from a quick wipe-down Ashley had given him after their last match, and his fins twitched occasionally as if itching for the next fight.

“You’re a nightmare, you know that?” Ashley said with a teasing grin, crouching down to meet Neptune’s eyes. “Out there, you’re like the ocean itself. Calm one second, crashing down the next.”

Neptune let out a soft, melodic trill, tilting his head toward Ashley in response. She reached up to rub the smooth ridge of his neck, her fingers tracing over the faint lines of battle scuffs he’d earned earlier. “But seriously, you’re amazing, Neptune. You’re making us look good.”

From across the room, Damian spoke up, his voice carrying a smirk. “Oh yeah, you looked real good out there. For a second, I thought that last Mach Punch might’ve had you, but nope. Your fortress of a Lapras just shrugs it all off like it’s nothing.”

Ashley turned her head, raising an eyebrow. “Jealous?”

Damian was sitting cross-legged on the floor, tossing a small Poké Ball up and down absentmindedly. Haunter floated behind him, making exaggerated spooky faces at Proserpina, who swayed back and forth, giggling softly. Despite their trainers’ banter, the two Pokémon seemed to have hit it off during the downtime.

“Jealous?” Damian echoed, his grin widening. “Not really. Tyrogue’s been holding his own just fine. Besides, Haunter would wipe the floor with your fortress. Ghosts don’t care about walls.”

Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn’t help laughing. “Oh, please. Haunter might be great at spooking people, but Neptune’s all business. He’d drown you in a tidal wave before you even had time to smirk.”

Haunter, hearing his trainer’s name, floated over dramatically, pretending to collapse in front of Neptune like he’d already been defeated. Neptune blinked down at him, unimpressed, before letting out a gentle trill and nudging the ghost with his nose.

Damian chuckled. “See? Haunter’s got flair. That’s what counts.”

“You’re getting a little too comfortable with that first-place energy. I think it’s time we take you down a peg,” Ashley shot back, standing and stretching.

“Oh, is that right?” Damian stood as well, crossing his arms. “You’re assuming you’re ready for me.”

Ashley smirked, leaning slightly forward. “I’m always ready.”

The tension in the air between them shifted, lighthearted banter giving way to the weight of the looming final battle.

The silence was broken by the intercom crackling to life. “Finalists, please report to the main stage. The final battle will begin in fifteen minutes.”

Ashley exhaled, her hand brushing against Neptune’s neck. “Alright, big guy. This is it. You ready?”

Neptune let out a melodic cry, his gaze calm but determined. Ashley smiled and returned him to his Poké Ball, clipping it securely to her belt.

She turned to Damian, who was doing the same with Tyrogue. “Guess it’s just us now,” she said, glancing around the nearly empty backstage area. The once-busy space was eerily still, with only the faint hum of distant cheers from the crowd.

Damian shrugged, sliding his hands into his pockets. “Yeah, kinda feels like a ghost town back here, doesn’t it? Fitting.”

Ashley rolled her eyes, adjusting her kimono. “I’m not scared of ghosts, Damian.”

“No,” he replied, his smirk returning. “You’re scared of losing to me.”

Ashley snorted. “Keep dreaming.”

They stood there for a moment, the playful banter falling into a quiet understanding. Both trainers knew what was at stake, and despite their trash talk, there was mutual respect.

Finally, Ashley broke the silence, her grin softening. “May the best trainer win.”

Damian raised an eyebrow, his smirk still intact. “Oh, I plan to.”

Ashley laughed, turning toward the exit that led to the main stage. Proserpina trotted up beside her, giving her a reassuring nudge before she returned the Gloom to her Poké Ball. With one last glance back at Damian, Ashley strode confidently toward the stage, her heart pounding with anticipation. This was it—the final battle. And she wasn’t going down without a fight.

Lillian’s voice boomed across the arena, "Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting for—the final round! Please welcome our contestants, Damian and Ashley!"

Ashley stepped onto the stage, her heart pounding in rhythm with the cheers of the crowd. She adjusted her hat, glancing at Neptune’s Poké Ball in her hand. “Alright, buddy,” she whispered. “Let’s show them the power of the ocean.” She tossed the Poké Ball into the air with a confident flourish.

A burst of light emerged, and Neptune appeared in a swirl of water droplets, his shell gleaming under the stage lights as his melodic cry resonated through the arena.

Across the stage, Damian smirked and released his Tyrogue. The Fighting-type landed on the rain-slicked battlefield with a sharp, disciplined stance. He flexed his arms, his expression a mix of focus and determination. “Let’s give them a show, Tyrogue!” Damian called, his tone brimming with confidence.

“Begin!” Lillian started the finals with a flourished bow.

Neptune reared back, summoning fresh storm clouds that thickened above the stage. A renewed downpour cascaded, each droplet refracting the arena lights into a symphony of sparkling colors. The rain wove a magical backdrop, amplifying Neptune’s serene yet commanding presence. The audience leaned forward, their gasps blending into murmurs of awe.

Damian narrowed his eyes, refusing to let Neptune dominate. "Tyrogue, break through with Fake Out!"

Tyrogue darted forward in a blur of motion, his agility cutting through the rain like a knife. He clapped his hands with a resounding CRACK, the shockwave rippling through the stage. Neptune flinched, his rhythm briefly interrupted as the rain shimmered from the impact. The audience responded with a collective "ooh," appreciating the bold counter.

But Ashley wasn’t about to let Damian steal the show. "Neptune, Double Team—let’s dazzle them!"

Neptune shimmered as multiple illusions of himself appeared, each gliding gracefully through the rain. The Lapras clones danced in perfect harmony, their reflections rippling in the puddles like living artwork. The crowd erupted in applause, enchanted by the otherworldly display.

Damian crossed his arms, lips curling into a determined smirk. "Tyrogue, Bulk Up!"

Tyrogue’s body pulsed with raw energy as he flexed, his muscles swelling visibly. The rain glistened on his frame, emphasizing his display of strength. The audience clapped politely, though the visual impact couldn’t match Neptune’s ethereal illusions.

Ashley seized the moment. "Neptune, let’s create something unforgettable. Ice Shard, then Ice Beam—show them your artistry!"

Neptune opened his mouth, releasing crystalline shards of ice that spiraled into the air. As they ascended, he followed up with a precise Ice Beam that collided with the shards. The explosion of frost and light created a cascading snowfall that swirled beautifully through the rain, transforming the stage into a winter wonderland. Gasps and cheers echoed through the hall as the shimmering ice reflected the arena lights.

"That’s how it’s done," Ashley muttered under her breath, her confidence growing.

Damian wasn’t about to let the spectacle go unanswered. "Tyrogue, High Jump Kick!"

Tyrogue leapt high into the air, spinning gracefully before aiming a powerful kick toward one of Neptune’s illusions. His movements were sharp and precise, slicing through the rain in an impressive display of athleticism. But the slick, rain-soaked stage proved challenging—his landing faltered slightly, and his kick only grazed one of Neptune’s decoys. The real Lapras remained untouched, eliciting murmurs of admiration for Ashley’s clever strategy.

"Substitute, Neptune!" Ashley called, her voice ringing with excitement.

In a flash, Neptune created a decoy that shimmered faintly in the rain. Tyrogue lunged, landing a punch that caused the substitute to burst into a cloud of mist. The ethereal fog blended seamlessly with the rain, adding an air of mystique that left the crowd entranced.

Damian gritted his teeth. "Don’t let them outshine us, Tyrogue! Keep the pressure on!"

But Ashley was already planning her finale. "Neptune, Sing!"

Neptune tilted his head back, releasing a hauntingly beautiful melody that rose above the rain’s rhythm. The sound was hypnotic, weaving through the air like a spell. The audience fell silent, captivated by the serene lullaby. Even the raindrops seemed to slow in response to the enchanting notes.

Tyrogue staggered, his movements growing sluggish as the melody seeped into his mind. Damian’s fists tightened. "Stay awake, Tyrogue! You can do it!"

But it was too late. Tyrogue’s eyelids drooped, and his stance faltered, leaving him vulnerable.

Ashley saw her chance. "Now, Giga Drain!"

Neptune’s fins glowed with a vibrant green aura as tendrils of energy extended toward Tyrogue. The move was executed with elegance, the swirling tendrils of light merging with the rain to create a mesmerizing display. The audience erupted into applause as Neptune absorbed Tyrogue’s strength, his vitality visibly restored.

Tyrogue dropped to one knee, unable to recover. The referee glanced at the scoreboard as the final buzzer sounded, signaling the end of the match. Lillian’s voice rang out over the cheers. "The scores are in! With a stunning performance that blended elegance, strategy, and power, the winner is Ashley and Neptune!"

Ashley gasped, her hands flying to her mouth before she broke into a triumphant grin. She ran to Neptune, wrapping her arms around his damp neck. "We did it, Neptune! You were amazing!"

Neptune let out a melodic cry, nuzzling Ashley as the crowd’s cheers thundered around them. Their cheers became even louder when Ashley released Proserpina to join in their little team celebration.

Damian returned Tyrogue to his Poké Ball, a crooked smile on his face as he walked over. “Okay, I’ll admit it—you earned this one. That Lapras of yours is something else.”

Ashley straightened, smirking. “Told you we’d take you down.”

Damian chuckled, offering a handshake. “Fair enough. But next time? It will be my win.”

Ashley took his hand, her grin widening. “Keep dreaming.”

As Lillian Meridian approached with the Contest Ribbon, the spotlight followed her, making the gold and purple design glimmer. The heart motif seemed to catch the light just right, casting tiny reflections that danced across the stage. Ashley’s breath hitched as Lillian stopped in front of her, the ribbon in her outstretched hands.

“Congratulations, Ashley,” Lillian said, her voice warm and carrying effortlessly over the applause of the crowd. “Your performance today was nothing short of breathtaking.”

Ashley’s hands trembled as she accepted the ribbon. The fabric was softer than she expected, and the simple design of a heart felt impossibly perfect in her fingers. She turned to the crowd, lifting the ribbon high above her head with a radiant smile. The cheers swelled to a roar, and Ashley felt the warmth of their admiration wash over her like sunlight breaking through clouds.

Beside her, Neptune let out a melodic cry, his fins shimmering in the stage lights as droplets of rain slid down his sleek shell. Proserpina waddled forward, her petals swaying with newfound confidence. The Gloom puffed out her chest proudly, her earlier hesitance replaced with a glow of self-assurance. Ashley crouched down and hugged both Pokémon tightly, the ribbon dangling from her hand as her emotions bubbled over.

“We did it,” she whispered, her voice catching. “You both were incredible. Absolutely incredible.”

Neptune nuzzled her cheek, his gentle hum vibrating softly against her. Proserpina let out a happy chirp, nudging her head into Ashley’s shoulder. The audience’s cheers seemed to grow louder at the touching moment, and Ashley blinked quickly to hold back tears.

Ashley stood again, glancing out at the crowd, who were still clapping and shouting their congratulations. She caught glimpses of familiar faces: Damian stood backstage, clapping with a crooked grin, and a few trainers from earlier rounds waved enthusiastically.

Lillian, ever the professional, stepped closer and gestured toward the ribbon. “Ashley, care to share a few words with your audience?”

Ashley froze for half a second, her eyes wide, before she nodded and stepped toward the microphone. Her heart pounded as she adjusted her hat, glancing back at Neptune and Proserpina for reassurance. The two Pokémon gave her encouraging nods—or in Neptune’s case, a low, melodic hum—and Ashley took a steadying breath.

“Wow,” she started, her voice shaky but filled with gratitude. “This... this means so much to me. When I signed up for this contest, I wasn’t sure how far I’d make it, but seeing Neptune and Proserpina shine out there—it reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.”

The crowd quieted slightly, hanging on to her words.

“I’ve learned so much from my Pokémon,” she continued, her confidence growing. “About perseverance, about trust, and, well... about letting them be themselves. Proserpina here wasn’t exactly feeling her best a little while ago, but she got up there and reminded all of us of what it means to bloom, even when it’s tough.”

The audience erupted into cheers, and Proserpina’s petals fluttered with pride. Neptune let out another melodious cry, and Ashley laughed, the sound bright and free.

“Thank you to everyone who cheered us on today,” she finished, holding the ribbon high once more. “And to my team—you’re the real stars.”

Chapter Text

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.

Chapter Text

The bustling streets of Saffron City buzzed with their usual energy, but Ashley’s attention was firmly fixed on the grand double doors of the Saffron Gym. She leaned against a lamppost, arms crossed, her gaze flicking occasionally to her PokéNav. Damian was late—not that she was surprised. He seemed to have a knack for being fashionably delayed.

A familiar, cheeky laugh snapped her out of her thoughts. “Sorry, sorry! I know, I’m late,” Damian called, jogging up the path with a wide grin plastered across his face. His Hitmonchan jogged alongside him, his movements smoother and more confident than before. Haunter floated lazily above them, occasionally phasing through lampposts and giggling at his antics.

Ashley smirked, straightening up. “Took you long enough. Did you get lost in the city or something?”

Damian shook his head, still catching his breath. “Nope, but saying goodbye to the dojo felt like a farewell ceremony or something. I swear, every trainee there had to come shake my hand. Twice.” He gestured dramatically, as if the weight of their gratitude had physically slowed him down.

“Wow,” Ashley teased, giving him a playful nudge. “Guess someone’s become a local celebrity. Should I start calling you Mr. Popular now?”

Damian laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Hey, I can’t help it if they love me. Or, well…” He glanced down at his Hitmonchan, who was shadowboxing casually. “...if they love him. This guy’s been a hit over there. Pun totally intended.”

Ashley snorted. “Of course it was. But I gotta admit, he looks good. You two must’ve been putting in serious work.”

Damian’s grin softened into something more genuine. “Yeah, the dojo was amazing. They really helped us hone in on his strengths. He’s got some serious power now, but it’s all about control. You should’ve seen him sparring with Machoke earlier—total knockout.”

Hitmonchan glanced up at Damian with a proud smile, jabbing the air as if to emphasize his point. Ashley gave him an approving nod. “Looking sharp, Hitmonchan. Next time, Mars might just give you a run for your money, though.”

Damian raised a brow. “Oh, is that a challenge? Because we can make that happen.”

“Easy, champ,” Ashley said with a laugh, holding up her hands. “Let’s save it for when we’re not about to part ways.”

That last part made Damian’s grin falter slightly. He tilted his head, a touch of curiosity and disappointment in his tone. “Part ways? You mean you’re not sticking around?”

Ashley sighed, her expression softening. “I can’t, Damian. I’ve been in Saffron for a week already, and Vermilion’s calling my name. There’s a contest there in two weeks, and Lt. Surge? He’s been on my gym list forever.”

“Ah, time management,” Damian said with a knowing nod, though his voice carried a hint of regret. “The eternal struggle for trainers like us.”

“Exactly,” Ashley said, crossing her arms again. “Gym badges, contest ribbons—balancing the two is a nightmare sometimes. But hey, you’ve got your own plans, right?”

Damian perked up a bit, his disappointment fading. “Yeah! There’s a contest in this little town between Saffron and Lavender. Thought I’d swing by, show Haunter and Hitmonchan off, snag a ribbon.”

Ashley grinned. “Sounds like a solid plan. You’ve been killing it lately. I’m sure you’ll crush it.”

“Thanks,” Damian said, though his smile had a wistful edge. “Still, it’s a bummer. Would’ve been cool to hit the contest circuit together. You’ve got the chops for it.”

“Who says we won’t cross paths again?” Ashley replied, tilting her head with a smirk. “Though, we still have one more day together. Ready to see me take on Sabrina?”

Damian’s smirk returned. “Now, that will be a show to enjoy.”

Ashley adjusted her hat nervously as she stood at the threshold of the Saffron Gym, the imposing structure radiating an eerie stillness that wasn’t helping her nerves. She shot a quick glance at Damian, who was flipping a coin idly in one hand, his other resting on his Hitmonchan’s shoulder. The Fighting-type stood tall, his gloved fists raised slightly, as though he were ready to take on whatever lay inside. Haunter, on the other hand, was floating upside down above Damian’s head, grinning mischievously.

“Okay,” Ashley said, taking a deep breath. “We just go in, do our thing, and walk out with a badge. Easy peasy.”

Damian smirked, but before he could respond, an old man seemingly materialized out of nowhere. “Turn back!” he wheezed, clutching a tattered broom like it was some kind of sacred relic. His eyes were wild, darting between Ashley and Damian with a mix of desperation and fear.

Ashley froze mid-step. “Uh... hi?”

The old man shook his head vehemently, jabbing his broom at the gym entrance. “You don’t understand! Sabrina cannot be defeated! She’ll read your mind—know your every move before you make it! And if you lose, she’ll trap you inside forever!”

Damian blinked, clearly unsure how to react. “Trap us inside? Like... as prisoners? That’s illegal, isn’t it?”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, forcing a laugh. “Uh, yeah. I don’t think that’s a thing. Right?” She glanced at Damian, who shrugged.

“I’m just saying,” Damian whispered, leaning closer, “weird rumors fly around this place. Like, seriously weird.”

Ashley rolled her eyes, brushing past the old man. “We’ll be fine. Sabrina’s a gym leader, not a ghost story. No one can actually read minds.”

The old man opened his mouth to protest again, but Ashley and Damian were already walking into the gym, his warnings fading behind them.

The first thing Ashley noticed was the silence. It was the kind of quiet that pressed against your ears, making you hyper-aware of every creak and shuffle. The interior was massive, stretching out into an almost infinite void of dim light and shadow. The walls were stark white, but the emptiness made them feel sterile, like a blank canvas waiting to be filled. The floor was polished to a mirror-like sheen, reflecting distorted glimpses of Ashley, Damian, and their Pokémon as they walked further in.

“No trainers, no Pokémon... not even a referee,” Damian muttered, glancing around warily. “This is definitely not normal.”

“Understatement of the century,” Ashley replied, crossing her arms as she tried to push down her unease. “I mean, I get minimalist décor, but this is... something else.”

Haunter floated ahead, his eerie chuckles echoing faintly as he phased through one of the gym’s walls, only to pop back out moments later. His grin widened as if he’d discovered some grand secret, but he said nothing, his purple form twirling lazily in the air.

Damian’s Hitmonchan tensed, his eyes darting around the space as though he could sense something neither trainer could. He raised a gloved fist, his stance shifting into a defensive position.

“Okay,” Ashley said, breaking the tension with a forced laugh. “So, let me guess—you’ve heard all about this place, right?”

Damian hesitated. “Maybe a little. Like... I’ve heard people say the gym’s weird, but nothing specific. Just... you know, stuff about spooky vibes and people walking out looking like they’ve seen a ghost.”

“Haunter, please don’t take that as a challenge,” Ashley quipped, though her voice had a strained edge. The ghost Pokémon wiggled his stubby arms in mock innocence, earning an exasperated sigh from Damian.

Ashley continued walking, her footsteps echoing faintly. “Look, it’s probably just a gimmick. Sabrina’s got a whole psychic thing going on, so maybe this is part of her schtick—creepy empty rooms, mind games, whatever. She’s just trying to psych us out.”

Damian smirked faintly. “Psych us out. Nice pun.”

“Unintentional, but thanks,” Ashley shot back. She slowed her pace, glancing down at the polished floor. Her reflection stared back at her, warped and stretched like a funhouse mirror. For a brief moment, she swore the reflection smirked at her before she did.

Ashley blinked and shook her head. “Okay, that’s it. Next time, we go straight to the gym leader without stopping for ominous old guys, creepy reflections, or... whatever this is.”

Damian chuckled but didn’t look entirely convinced. He tilted his head toward Hitmonchan. “What do you think, buddy? Feeling anything off?”

Hitmonchan gave a sharp nod, his fists clenching tighter. He stepped closer to Damian, his movements precise and cautious. Haunter, meanwhile, seemed to be having the time of his life, darting in and out of walls, occasionally making exaggerated spooky noises.

“Haunter,” Damian said with mock sternness, “quit trying to freak us out.”

“He’s fine,” Ashley said with a wave of her hand. “It’s probably good practice for Sabrina, honestly.”

As they ventured deeper into the desolate gym, the silence seemed to grow heavier, almost tangible. The walls seemed to stretch higher, the lights dimming slightly as if reacting to their presence. Ashley forced a grin, trying to keep the mood light.

“Well,” she said, her voice echoing slightly, “at least we’re getting plenty of cardio in.”

Damian snorted. “Sure. If we don’t get mind-controlled and turned into furniture first.”

Ashley gave him a flat look. “Okay, now you’re just being ridiculous.”

“Am I?” Damian asked, raising a brow. “Because I’d argue that this place is the definition of ridiculous.”

Ashley rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a grin. “Alright, fine. Point taken. Let’s just find Sabrina and—wait, did that wall just... move?”

Both trainers stopped, their eyes locking onto the far wall, where a faint shimmer rippled across the surface. Hitmonchan and Haunter tensed, their stances shifting as if preparing for something to emerge.

“Yeah, this is fine,” Damian said, his voice an octave higher than usual. “Totally fine.”

Ashley forced herself to laugh, though her grip tightened on her belt. “Okay. Maybe it’s not entirely fine... but we’ve come this far. No turning back now.”

They exchanged a glance, both trying to read the other’s expression. After a beat, Ashley took a deep breath and stepped forward, her heart pounding in her chest. “Let’s just get this over with.”

Ashley and Damian stood frozen as they stared at the shimmering wall they had just passed through. It had felt almost... gelatinous, and the sensation of it still lingered on Ashley’s skin, making her shudder. She turned to Damian, her voice low and strained.

"Okay, so... that wasn’t just a normal wall. But it’s not psychic powers, right? Because psychic powers aren’t... I mean..."

"Totally not psychic powers," Damian said, though he didn’t sound convinced. His Hitmonchan stood protectively at his side, fists raised, while Haunter floated a few feet ahead, his grin unusually subdued as he surveyed the room.

The battlefield stretched before them, but it wasn’t like any gym arena they’d seen before. The air shimmered with hues of pink and purple, each color swirling like smoke caught in a faint breeze. Everything felt... off. Like the room wasn’t quite real, or maybe they weren’t. Ashley swore she saw the floor ripple when she moved, but when she blinked, it was perfectly still.

Damian leaned toward her, his voice barely above a whisper. "Is it just me, or does this feel like... a fever dream?"

Ashley nodded slowly, her eyes scanning the strange, distorted arena. "If it is, we’re definitely having the same fever."

Before Damian could reply, a soft, childlike giggle echoed through the room, sending chills down Ashley’s spine. She turned sharply, her breath catching as a young girl stepped forward from the shadows, clutching a small, tattered Pokémon plushie. The girl’s expression was blank, but her dark eyes glimmered with something uncomfortably sharp, like she was seeing far more than she should.

"Welcome," the girl said in a voice that was eerily calm. She tilted her head slightly, her grip tightening on the plushie. "I’m Sabrina."

Ashley and Damian exchanged a stunned glance, the tension between them palpable. "Wait," Ashley blurted, pointing at the girl. "You’re Sabrina? As in... the Sabrina?"

Sabrina nodded, her movements unnervingly slow and deliberate. "Yes," she said simply. "To leave this gym, you’ll need to defeat me."

Damian took a half-step back, his Hitmonchan mirroring his unease. "So... the old guy wasn’t kidding," he muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief. "This is real."

Ashley tried to force a laugh, but it came out more like a strangled choke. "Great. Just great. Because being trapped in a creepy gym with a psychic kid was totally on my bucket list."

Sabrina’s lips curved into a faint smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. "You find this amusing?" she asked softly, her tone betraying no emotion.

"Not really," Ashley muttered, her hands tightening into fists. "But hey, when life gives you telekinetic nightmares..."

Before she could finish, Sabrina’s eyes flashed briefly, and Ashley’s belt suddenly unhooked itself. A Poké Ball floated into the air, glowing faintly as it opened. In a burst of light, Venus appeared, the Eevee blinking in confusion as she landed on the shimmering battlefield.

"Venus?!" Ashley shouted, her voice a mix of shock and anger. "What the—"

Sabrina tilted her head, her expression calm as ever. "You were planning to use her, weren’t you? Your plan all along was to allow her to experience a Gym Challenge. I am only allowing you the chance, after all, this will be a one vs one battle."

Ashley’s jaw dropped. "I—well, yeah, but I was gonna... you know... actually choose her!"

Sabrina ignored the protest, her gaze locked on Venus. "She is eager to prove herself," she said softly. "And I only need one Pokémon to face her."

Ashley’s heart sank as a single Poké Ball floated from Sabrina’s side. It opened slowly, releasing a flash of white light that formed into an Abra, his small body sitting calmly on the field. Abra’s eyes were closed, but the energy radiating from he was impossible to ignore.

Damian leaned toward Ashley, whispering urgently. "Okay, not to freak you out, but this might be... bad. Really bad."

Ashley let out a shaky laugh. "You think?!" She glared at Sabrina, her mind racing. Why Venus? she thought bitterly. If I’d known I only had one shot, I’d have picked Mars. At least he knows Brick Break!

Ashley’s stomach flipped, her hands clenching into fists as she stared at Venus. The little Eevee stood tall despite the strange atmosphere; her ears twitching as she took in her surroundings. Ashley could see the determination in her eyes, the same spark that had carried them through their first contest win. She even left her scarf and pearl behind to show how serious she is taking this Gym Challenge!

"Alright, Venus," Ashley said, her voice steady despite the turmoil inside her. "Looks like it’s you and me against the psychic prodigy. You ready?"

Venus chirped, her fluffy tail swishing as she crouched slightly, her muscles tensing in anticipation.

Damian stepped back, his Haunter floating beside him with an unusually serious expression. "No pressure," he muttered. "Just, you know, the fate of our freedom hanging on this battle."

Ashley shot him a glare but couldn’t help a faint grin. "Thanks for the pep talk."

Ashley took a deep breath, her eyes locked on Venus. We’ve got this, she told herself. We have to have this.

But as the strange, shimmering battlefield pulsed faintly around them, she couldn’t shake the feeling that they were in way over their heads.

Sabrina raised her hand, her plushie dangling limply from her fingers. "Let the battle begin," she said.

From the get-go the Abra was proven to be a hard challenge. Abra teleported away from any attack Venus tried to land, almost as if he and Sabrina could read Ashley’s mind, they knew what she would command Venus to do before she even opened her mouth. Rain Dance was met with Sunny Day, Swift was neutralized by Psyshock, Iron Tail was teleported away, Venus never got close enough to try her new move Double Kick.

Ashley’s heart pounded in her chest as Venus struggled to stay on her feet, her tiny body battered and bruised. She was no longer the carefree Eevee that had danced around the battlefields with excitement. No, this Venus was tired, beaten, and on the edge of collapse. Her fur was matted with sweat, and every breath she took seemed to take longer than the last.

On the other side of the battlefield, the small Abra stood with an almost smug look on his face. His eyes were closed, but the eerie glow of his psychic power swirled around him like a tangible force. He had already used Psyshock to send Venus flying twice, and that was just the beginning. It was almost like the Abra was toying with them, reading their moves before they even made them.

“Ashley!” Damian’s voice snapped her out of her haze. “This is bad! That Abra is way stronger than any normal one! No way it should know all these moves!" He frantically ran his fingers through his hair, his voice rising in panic. "This is like... a nightmare!"

Ashley didn’t answer him at first; she couldn’t. Her gaze was fixed on Venus, who had staggered to her feet, determined but clearly on the verge of giving out. Come on, Venus... she thought desperately, watching the Eevee's exhaustion as her body swayed slightly. You can do this... We’re in this together.

Sabrina, still clutching her plushie like a bizarre little doll, stood there, unnervingly calm. “Your Pokémon is strong, but not strong enough,” she said, her voice flat and almost lifeless, like she was reciting a script she knew too well. “Abra’s power is greater than you realize.”

Ashley’s jaw clenched. “I don’t care how strong it is,” she muttered, eyes narrowing. “Venus, let’s try again! Swift!”

Venus shot forward, tail held high as her fur gleamed with the glow of the attack. A flurry of glowing stars launched from her body, zipping toward Abra, but before they could even make contact, the Abra teleported. A flash of light, and he was gone—reappearing behind Venus in the blink of an eye. He barely seemed to break a sweat.

“Dammit!” Ashley hissed under her breath, eyes blazing with frustration. "I can't catch a break."

Damian’s voice cut through her thoughts. “It’s not you! That thing’s like a mind reader! Sabrina’s gotta be feeding it all the moves, and the teleporting... It’s insane!”

The Abra, still floating lazily, let out a soft, almost bored “Abra...” before raising his tiny arms and letting loose a Thunder Punch.

Venus cried out, the electric energy slamming into her side. Her body jerked, and she staggered back, fur singed and trembling.

“Venus!” Ashley yelled, panic creeping into her voice. She could see her Eevee struggling to stand, her legs shaking as she tried to keep her balance. Every time she tried to retaliate, the Abra just zipped away, his ability to teleport seeming to defy logic and physics. And each time, Venus took the brunt of the attack, getting weaker with each blow.

“No! Not like this!” Ashley’s voice wavered. “Venus, please—use Wish! Heal yourself, just for a moment!”

Venus’s ears flicked, and she raised her head, barely able to keep her eyes open. With what little energy she had left, she focused, summoning the healing energy needed for Wish. Her body glowed faintly, the energy wrapping around her, knitting together some of her injuries. It helped, in a way, but it couldn’t undo the exhaustion the battle had already taken on her.

“See?” Sabrina said, voice still eerily calm. “Your efforts are futile. She’s not strong enough to defeat Abra.”

Ashley clenched her fists so tightly that her knuckles turned white. No, no way. I’m not losing like this. I can’t.

Beside her, Damian was frantically pacing. “This is bad. We’re gonna be trapped in here forever if we don’t figure something out! What is that Abra?”

Ashley’s mind raced. A normal Abra would never be able to do this, she thought, eyes darting between Venus and the Abra. Fire Punch? Ice Punch? Thunder Punch? No way. This is way beyond just a regular Psychic-type.

Suddenly, something clicked in her mind, and her gaze hardened. “Wait a second… it’s Sabrina. She’s doing this. She has to be. The way she’s acting... the way that Abra knows all these moves, it’s like she’s controlling it, guiding it.”

Damian stopped pacing and looked at her. “What are you talking about? You think Sabrina’s doing this on purpose?”

“Not on purpose,” Ashley snapped, her thoughts finally starting to align. “I don’t think Sabrina even realizes what she’s doing. Whatever happened to her—whatever’s going on with her—she’s warping reality here. That’s why everything feels so weird. That’s why Abra’s so strong. She’s manipulating everything with her mind.”

“So... you’re saying she’s actually a psychic?” Damian asked incredulously.

Ashley threw him a sharp glance. “What else would she be, Damian? We’re not fighting a normal battle here. This isn’t about type advantage anymore. It’s about getting her out of our heads!”

Venus was still wobbling, but she managed to look up at her trainer, eyes filled with determination despite the pain. Ashley knew the Eevee was exhausted, and she didn’t have many options left. Come on, Venus!

Venus seemed to understand the unspoken challenge, and with a fierce look, she began to gather her energy for another move. Ashley’s heart skipped a beat—this was the moment they had to get it right.

But just as Venus took a step forward, the Abra’s eyes snapped open. He raised a small hand, and the glow around it flared as he unleashed a Fire Punch. This time, Venus didn’t see the punch coming. She was struck head-on, fire coursing through her body, and she collapsed to the ground with a soft cry.

“Venus!” Ashley’s voice cracked as she rushed forward, her feet slipping on the misty battlefield. She knelt beside Venus, her fingers trembling as she reached out to her Pokémon. Venus looked up weakly, her tail flicking a bit in acknowledgment.

"I... I can't..." Ashley murmured, staring at her Eevee, unsure of what to do next. “You’re... you're so strong, Venus, but I don’t know how to beat that thing…”

Damian crouched beside her, his voice low but urgent. “Ashley, we need to come up with a plan now. This is getting out of hand, and I don’t think Venus can take much more.”

Ashley nodded grimly. “Alright,” she whispered fiercely. "I’m not going to let that... whatever it is, win. We're finishing this."

But first, she had to find a way to break through Sabrina's psychic hold, and fast.

As the sound of Sabrina’s eerie giggles filled the air, the tension in the room seemed to shift. Ashley froze, clutching Venus tightly against her chest as she tried to figure out where the noise was coming from. Her heart was racing, her adrenaline surging after watching her Eevee endure such a brutal battle.

Damian grabbed her shoulder, pulling her attention back. “Ashley, do you hear that?” he whispered, his voice low and edged with fear.

She nodded, her eyes scanning the battlefield. “Yeah. What is—”

Her words caught in her throat as she spotted Haunter floating near Sabrina. The mischievous ghost Pokémon was pulling exaggerated faces, stretching his mouth wide and waggling his tongue, his large eyes bulging as he floated in circles around her.

“What is he doing?!” Ashley hissed, eyes wide in disbelief.

Damian blinked, his voice pitching upward. “I—I think he’s making her laugh?”

Sure enough, Sabrina’s childlike form was giggling uncontrollably, clutching her plushie to her chest as she rocked back and forth on her feet. Each laugh sent tremors through the room, the distorted battlefield flickering like a glitching projection. The pink and purple hues dimmed, breaking apart into fleeting flashes of normality before surging back again.

Ashley took a cautious step back, her grip on Venus tightening. “Damian, I don’t think this is just a laugh fest. The room’s breaking apart.”

He didn’t need to be told twice. The ground beneath them trembled violently, the fog swirling chaotically as the shimmering walls began to crack like glass. “We need to go. Now.”

“But what about Haunter?!” Ashley cried, her voice strained as she glanced toward the ghost Pokémon, who was now juggling ethereal flames in his hands like a circus act, eliciting more giggles from Sabrina.

Damian gritted his teeth, his fists clenching. “He does this all the time. Trust me—he’ll find his way back. He always does.”

The floor beneath them buckled, sending Ashley stumbling. Venus whimpered in her arms, her tiny body trembling. The walls around them shattered like a mirror hit with a hammer, shards of the surreal pink and purple hues falling into nothingness.

Ashley didn’t wait for further argument. “Let’s go!” she shouted, breaking into a sprint toward the fake wall they’d entered through.

Damian and his Hitmonchan were right behind her, the Fighting-type’s gloves glowing faintly as if ready to punch through anything that got in their way.

The ground continued to quake, and a deafening crash echoed behind them. Ashley risked a glance over her shoulder, her breath hitching as she saw the remnants of the battlefield collapse in on itself, swirling into a vortex of psychic energy.

“Don’t look back!” Damian yelled, his voice sharp with urgency. “Just keep moving!”

Ashley swallowed hard, her legs pumping as she clutched Venus close. The Eevee’s fur was damp with sweat, and Ashley could feel her trembling, but she was still hanging on. “We’re almost there,” she muttered, more to herself than anyone else. “We’re almost out.”

The fake wall loomed ahead, but it looked different now—flickering like the rest of the room, its edges jagged and unstable. For a brief moment, Ashley hesitated, fear creeping into her thoughts. What if it doesn’t let us out?

Damian didn’t hesitate. “Hitmonchan, clear the way!”

With a powerful leap, Hitmonchan lashed out with a glowing Knock Off, shattering the wall in an explosion of psychic residue. The path ahead cleared, revealing the gym’s eerily quiet entryway.

Ashley bolted through, Damian and Hitmonchan hot on her heels. As soon as they were through, the wall reformed behind them with a deafening crash. The sound echoed in Ashley’s ears as she stumbled to a stop, her chest heaving as she struggled to catch her breath.

Venus whimpered softly, nuzzling weakly against Ashley’s chest. “I know, girl,” Ashley murmured, her voice shaking as she stroked the Eevee’s fur. “I know. We’re almost there. Just hold on.”

Damian doubled over, his hands on his knees as he gasped for air. “That... was insane. What even... was that?”

Ashley shook her head, her hands trembling as she adjusted her grip on Venus. “I don’t know. I don’t care. We just need to get out of here.”

The old man who had warned them earlier appeared out of nowhere, his wild eyes wide with alarm. “You escaped?! How? No one escapes Sabrina!”

Ashley ignored him, brushing past as she headed toward the street. Damian followed, muttering under his breath about crazy psychics and haunted gyms.

“We need to get to the Pokémon Center,” Ashley said firmly, her voice steadier now but still laced with urgency. “Venus needs help.”

Damian nodded, his expression serious. “Yeah, no arguments here. Let’s go.”

The two of them hurried down the street, their Pokémon close by. Behind them, the Saffron Gym loomed, its unsettling aura still lingering in the air. Neither of them looked back.

The streets of Saffron City blurred past as Ashley and Damian sprinted through the crowded sidewalks, their footsteps echoing against the pavement. People yelped in surprise as the two barreled forward, narrowly dodging street vendors, hurried office workers, and the occasional Pokémon weaving through the bustling city.

“Sorry! Coming through!” Ashley shouted breathlessly, clutching Venus close to her chest. The Eevee’s fur was damp, her breaths shallow. Ashley’s heart clenched with every labored rise and fall of Venus’s tiny chest.

“Almost there!” Damian called from behind, his Hitmonchan keeping pace at his side. The Fighting Pokémon’s sharp eyes scanned the streets, ever alert for potential obstacles or threats.

They skidded around a corner, Ashley nearly losing her footing but catching herself just in time. Her cap was askew, her braid undone and bouncing against her back as she pushed herself to keep moving.

Finally, the glowing red sign of the Pokémon Center came into view. “There it is!” Ashley cried, relief washing over her like a wave. She surged forward, her legs burning but refusing to stop.

Bursting through the automatic doors, Ashley practically collapsed onto the counter, gasping for air. “Nurse Joy!” she managed to choke out, her voice cracking with panic. “Please, Venus—she needs help!”

Nurse Joy, calm and composed despite the commotion, leaned forward with a reassuring nod. “Of course. Chansey, let’s get her to the back.”

The round, pink Pokémon waddled over, her face a mask of determination as she held out her tiny arms. Ashley hesitated for a moment, reluctant to let Venus go, but Chansey gave her a soft coo of reassurance.

“You’ll take care of her, right?” Ashley whispered, her voice trembling.

“Venus is in good hands,” Nurse Joy promised gently, motioning for Chansey to hurry. The Pokémon cradled Venus delicately, disappearing through the swinging doors as Nurse Joy followed close behind.

As the doors shut, sealing Venus away from view, Ashley’s knees buckled. She sank onto the waiting room bench, burying her face in her hands. The weight of everything—the battle, the escape, the fear—crashed down on her all at once.

Damian sat down beside her, his expression grim. He hesitated for a moment, unsure of what to say, before reaching out and wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “Hey,” he murmured, his voice softer than usual. “It’s okay. She’s tough—just like you. She’ll pull through.”

Ashley let out a shaky breath, her hands falling from her face as tears streaked down her cheeks. “I-I shouldn’t have let it happen,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I knew Sabrina wasn’t normal, but I thought... I thought we could handle it. Venus trusted me, and I—”

Damian shook his head, his grip on her tightening. “Don’t do that. Don’t blame yourself. No one could’ve seen that coming—not the psychic mind-reading, not the Abra pulling off moves it shouldn’t even know. That wasn’t on you, Ashley.”

She sniffled, her hands trembling as she clutched the edge of her shorts. “I just... I felt so useless. Watching her get hurt like that and not knowing how to stop it—”

“You weren’t useless,” Damian interrupted firmly. “You got her out. You got us out. You kept fighting, even when things looked impossible. That’s what a good trainer does.”

Ashley blinked up at him, her tear-filled eyes searching his face for any sign of doubt. But Damian’s expression was resolute, his usual smirk replaced with a rare look of sincerity.

“You’re not alone in this,” he added, glancing toward the swinging doors where Venus had disappeared. “And neither is Venus. We’ve got her back—just like she’s always had yours.”

Ashley’s lips quirked into a small, wobbly smile. “Thanks, Damian.”

He gave her a crooked grin, leaning back against the bench. “What can I say? I’ve got a soft spot for underdogs—and their stubborn trainers.”

The faintest laugh escaped her, more of a hiccup than anything else, but it was enough to break the tension.

The two sat in silence for a while, the hum of the Pokémon Center’s machines filling the quiet. Ashley kept her eyes fixed on the doors, willing Venus to walk through them, good as new. Damian stayed by her side, his hand never leaving her shoulder. Hitmonchan stood nearby, his arms crossed as he kept a vigilant watch, his usually stoic face softening every time he glanced at Ashley.

After what felt like an eternity, Nurse Joy returned. Ashley shot to her feet, her heart in her throat.

“Venus is stable,” Nurse Joy said with a reassuring smile. “She’s resting now, and with a bit of time, she’ll make a full recovery.”

Ashley let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding, her knees nearly giving out again. Damian caught her elbow, steadying her.

“Thank you,” Ashley said, her voice hoarse but filled with relief. “Can I see her?”

“Of course,” Nurse Joy replied, gesturing for them to follow her.

As they walked through the quiet halls of the Pokémon Center, Ashley felt a sense of calm begin to return. She wasn’t out of the woods yet—not with Sabrina still looming over her journey—but for now, Venus was safe.

And that was all that mattered.

Ashley’s chest tightened as she stepped into the recovery room, her eyes immediately falling on Venus. The small Eevee lay nestled in the center of an oversized hospital bed, her tiny frame dwarfed by the fluffy blankets and the machines humming softly around her. Wires ran from her to monitors, tracking her vitals in a steady rhythm. Seeing Venus like this, so vulnerable, made Ashley’s throat tighten.

“Oh, Venus…” she murmured, rushing to her side. She pulled a chair close to the bed and sat down, gently brushing her fingers over the trimmed patches of fur on Venus’s side. The Eevee stirred slightly at her touch, letting out a soft whimper. Ashley’s heart broke all over again.

Damian stood quietly behind her, Hitmonchan lingering in the doorway with Chansey. The Fighting-type Pokémon stood tall and alert, his sharp eyes scanning the hallway as if daring anyone to disturb them.

Nurse Joy walked in, her clipboard in hand and a calm smile on her face. “Venus is stable,” she began, her voice soft but reassuring. “The injuries she sustained weren’t as severe as they looked. Most of what you’re seeing here is just precautionary monitoring. Her exhaustion was the biggest concern.”

Ashley looked up, her voice wavering. “What about… her fur? The burns?”

Nurse Joy’s smile didn’t falter. “The elemental punches caused some singeing, and we had to trim her fur in a few spots to treat the burns. But the damage isn’t permanent. Eevee’s fur grows back quickly, and with proper care, she’ll be good as new.”

Ashley exhaled a shaky breath, her fingers brushing through the untrimmed parts of Venus’s soft coat. “So, she’s going to be okay?”

“She will,” Nurse Joy confirmed. “And honestly, you have her move Wish to thank for that. It worked wonders in mitigating the worst of the damage. Without it, the damage could’ve been much more severe.”

Ashley nodded, blinking back tears as she gazed at her Pokémon. “She’s tougher than I gave her credit for.”

Damian nudged her shoulder, a lopsided grin on his face. “I told you. You’re a good trainer, Ash. You taught her to be tough—and smart. Wish isn’t exactly the first thing most trainers think of under pressure, but you made the call, and it worked.”

Ashley’s lips twitched into a faint smile. “I don’t feel like a good trainer right now,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. Ashley sighed, resting her forehead against the edge of the bed. “I just want her to know that she doesn’t have to fight for me. Not if it means this.”

Nurse Joy stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on Ashley’s shoulder. “You’re both going to need some time to recover, but she’ll bounce back. Pokémon are incredibly resilient, especially when they know they’re loved and cared for.”

Ashley nodded silently, glancing back at Venus. The Eevee’s chest rose and fell steadily, her small body wrapped snugly in the blanket.

“So… when can I sign her release?” Ashley asked, her voice hesitant.

“Tomorrow,” Nurse Joy replied with a kind smile. “Just make sure she takes it easy for at least a week—no training, no battles. After that, she’ll be back to her old self.”

“Thank you,” Ashley said earnestly, her voice cracking slightly. She stroked Venus’s head, her fingers brushing over the trimmed fur. “I’ll make sure she gets all the rest she needs.”

As Nurse Joy left the room, Damian stayed beside Ashley, settling into the chair next to her. “So,” he said after a long silence, “what’s the plan? You’re not seriously thinking about going back to that gym, are you?”

Ashley didn’t answer right away. She kept her eyes on Venus, her hand resting gently on the Eevee’s side. “I don’t know,” she admitted. “I want to—no, I need to finish this journey. But… Sabrina? I don’t think I’m ready for her. Not yet.”

Damian nodded, his expression thoughtful. “Makes sense. That gym… it’s not normal.”

Ashley let out a soft laugh, the sound tinged with exhaustion. “I guess we’re both a little spooked, huh?”

“Understatement of the century,” Damian said, grinning. “But hey, that’s a problem for another day. Right now, let’s just focus on getting Venus back on her paws.”

“Yeah. One step at a time.” Ashley smiled, the weight on her chest easing ever so slightly. “One thing for sure, I will not remain in this city for long. The moment I sign Venus out, I will be leaving for Vermilion City.”

“Yeah, me too,” Damian sighed, before hesitating. “Do you… do you want me to go with you?”

“No,” Ashley turned to him sharply. “You better not dare skip that contest you were planning. I do not need coddling.”

Damian raised his hands, in mock defeat, his confident smirk coming back, “As you wish.”

The room was silent except for the soft hum of the machines monitoring Venus when the door creaked open, drawing both Ashley’s and Damian’s attention. Officer Jenny stepped inside, her expression serious but calm. Behind her floated Damian’s Haunter, a mischievous grin plastered across his ghostly face as he drifted closer to his trainer.

Ashley shot up from her chair, her eyes wide. “Officer Jenny?” she asked, her voice cautious. Damian stood a second later, looking equally confused.

Jenny gave them a nod of acknowledgment. “I came to thank you both,” she said, her tone steady but carrying an edge of urgency. “You helped save Sabrina from what could have been a very dangerous situation.”

Ashley blinked, her mind racing. “We—wait, what? Save her? What are you talking about?” She glanced at Damian, who raised an eyebrow in silent agreement with her confusion.

Jenny sighed, stepping further into the room. “I understand you’ve been through quite an ordeal, and it’s probably hard to process right now, but Sabrina was… unwell. She was affected by a powerful psychic outburst—one that seems to have disrupted not just her but many Psychic-types across Kanto.”

Damian tilted his head, his hand gesturing vaguely toward Haunter. “So, like… she got hit with some kind of psychic explosion and lost it? Is that what you’re saying?”

“Essentially, yes,” Jenny confirmed. “But Sabrina is one of the most powerful psychics in Kanto, possibly the world. The outburst didn’t just affect her powers—it distorted her mind, twisting her abilities into something far more dangerous. That’s what you experienced in her gym.”

Ashley felt a shiver run down her spine. She sat back down heavily, her hands clutching her knees. “So… that wasn’t just her being a super intense gym leader. That was—”

“Something completely out of her control,” Jenny finished, her tone softening. “She’s been transported to a specialized treatment center where she can recover safely. Before she left, she regained enough clarity to apologize for her actions.”

Damian let out a low whistle, scratching the back of his head. “Man, we were running out of there like it was the end of the world, and she was the one who needed help. That’s… a lot.”

Ashley nodded, her brow furrowing. “It didn’t feel like she was herself in there. But how… how did she come back to herself? I mean, the room was breaking apart, and—”

Jenny gestured to Haunter, who hovered closer, looking surprisingly proud of himself. “You can thank your friend here for that. Haunter’s ghostly powers disrupted the psychic energy surrounding Sabrina, giving her the chance to fight back against the distortion. It’s not something just any Pokémon could do. Haunter’s unique abilities made all the difference.”

Damian blinked, then broke into a grin. “Haunter, you absolute legend!” He held up his hand for a high-five, and Haunter eagerly slapped it with his ghostly appendage, laughing in his eerie way.

Ashley leaned back in her chair, staring at Haunter with newfound respect. “So, you’re saying… Haunter was the MVP of all of this?”

Jenny nodded. “Without a doubt. And because of his actions—and yours—you’ve both earned these.” She reached into her pocket and pulled out two gleaming Marsh Badges, their concentric golden circles catching the light. She handed one to each of them.

Ashley stared at the badge in her hand, her fingers trembling slightly. “But… we didn’t win. We didn’t even finish the battle.”

“You didn’t need to,” Jenny explained. “A gym badge can be awarded not only for a victory in battle but also for performing an act of service for the gym leader. You helped save Sabrina. That’s worthy of recognition.”

Damian turned the badge over in his hand, his expression a mix of awe and disbelief. “Wow. I didn’t think we’d end up with badges after… well, everything. I’m not even a Gym Challenger! But I’ll take it.”

Ashley’s lips curved into a small smile. “Yeah, me too. I just—” Her smile faltered as her thoughts turned back to Sabrina. “What about the psychic outburst? Do you know where it came from?”

Jenny’s expression darkened slightly. “That’s what we’re trying to figure out. Psychic Pokémon across Kanto have been acting strangely ever since the outburst occurred. It’s unprecedented, and we don’t have a clear origin point yet. But rest assured, we’re investigating.”

Ashley exchanged a glance with Damian, her stomach twisting. “So… this isn’t over, is it?”

“Not yet,” Jenny admitted. “But you’ve done your part today. Focus on recovering and taking care of your Pokémon.” She gave them a reassuring smile before turning to leave. “Thank you again for what you’ve done.”

As Jenny exited, Damian plopped back into his chair, turning the Marsh Badge over in his hand with a lopsided grin. "So… what do we even call this? The most chaotic gym challenge in history?"

Ashley leaned back, clutching her badge as if it might float away, and let out a disbelieving laugh. "I think we call it the day we ran away from a horror movie only to be introduced to a sci-fi one. What the Arceus?! How is this our life?"

Damian snorted, shaking his head. "Seriously, if this is what gyms are like in Kanto, I might stick to contests. At least those just involve sparkles and choreography."

Ashley shot him a teasing look. "Oh, yeah, because dodging Shadow Balls in sequins is so much safer."

Damian chuckled. “Works for me.”

They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of what they’d experienced settling in. But as Ashley held her badge tightly, she felt a flicker of pride. They’d been through a nightmare and come out stronger. And for now, that was enough.

Chapter Text

The morning sun streamed through the window of Venus’s recovery room, casting soft golden light across the tidy space. Ashley was perched on the edge of the bed, carefully tying the bright blue scarf back around Venus’s neck. “There,” she said softly, scratching under her Eevee’s chin. “You’re officially back to being the best-dressed member of the team.”

Venus chirped happily, her fur fluffed and shining after Nurse Joy’s care. She looked stronger, her energy slowly returning, though her movements were still careful. Across the room, Damian stood with his arms crossed, his expression somewhere between guilt and hesitation. Beside him, Hitmonchan stood tall and poised, while Haunter floated lazily, grinning like he had no care in the world.

“You sure you don’t need me to stick around?” Damian asked, his tone uncharacteristically serious. He scratched the back of his neck, glancing at Venus. “I mean… after everything that happened yesterday—”

Ashley spun around, hands on her hips. “Damian, if you don’t leave now, I’m going to start thinking you’re scared of losing that contest.”

“Scared?” Damian shot back, his grin returning. “Please. I’ve got this in the bag.” But his confidence wavered as he glanced at Venus again. “I just don’t want to bail on you guys when—”

“Bail?!” Ashley interrupted, pointing dramatically at the door. “You are not bailing. You are going to walk out of here, get on that stage, and show every other coordinator what a Hitmonchan can do. Right, Venus?”

Venus gave an enthusiastic squeak, puffing out her chest. Ashley chuckled. “See? Even Venus wants you to go kick some butt. And don’t worry, we’re gonna cheer you on from here.”

Damian laughed, though it was tinged with a bit of nervousness. “Alright, alright. You win.” He crouched slightly, meeting Venus’s gaze. “Thanks for letting me off the hook, partner. Get some rest, okay?”

Venus nudged his hand gently with her nose, her expression soft and understanding.

Hitmonchan gave a low bow, his movements precise and disciplined. He straightened with a faint smile, as if silently saying, We’ll make you proud.

And then there was Haunter. True to form, the ghost darted forward, sticking out his tongue and floating upside down as he made exaggerated faces. Venus tilted her head, unimpressed, but when Haunter’s antics became even more ridiculous—complete with spinning in the air—Venus let out a small, chirping laugh.

Ashley blinked. “Wait. Did she… just laugh at Haunter?”

Damian smirked. “Looks like somebody’s warming up to the MVP.”

Haunter crossed his arms with a smug grin, puffing out his chest as if to say, Of course she is.

“Alright, alright,” Ashley said, shaking her head with a smile. “You saved her life; you get a free pass for being insufferable.” She leaned down, scratching behind Venus’s ears. “And look at you, letting him tease you. I’m proud of you, too.”

Damian straightened up, his confidence back in full force. “Okay, this is my cue. You guys better actually watch my contest, though. I expect loud cheering—even if it’s through the PokéNav.”

Ashley gave him a mock salute. “You got it, star performer.”

Hitmonchan gave Venus one last respectful nod, and Haunter floated lazily toward the door, giving a final wave. Venus lifted her paw slightly in farewell, her tail swishing as the trio left the room.

As the door clicked shut, Ashley let out a breath, flopping back into the chair beside Venus. “Well, there he goes. Think he’ll win?”

Venus tilted her head, then gave a small, determined chirp.

Ashley grinned. “Yeah, me too. But for now…” She gently pulled a blanket over Venus, her voice softening. “Let’s focus on you, alright? You’re the real MVP here, partner.”

Venus purred softly, curling into the warmth of the blanket. Ashley leaned back in the chair, watching her Pokémon rest.

Ashley felt a pang of guilt as she left Venus alone in the recovery room, her Eevee’s small frame tucked into the bed. She wanted nothing more than to sit by Venus’s side, but she also knew the rules—Pokémon couldn’t be released in the recovery room, and Chansey was there to keep a close eye on her. With a heavy sigh, Ashley made her way to the front desk, her shoulders slumping as she picked up a pen to fill out the paperwork for Venus’s release.

Her thoughts swirled as she wrote, guilt gnawing at her. I should’ve been stronger, faster... smarter. Venus wouldn’t be here if I’d done better. She shook her head, trying to push the thoughts away, but they lingered, a dull ache in the back of her mind.

Just as she finished signing the last form, Nurse Joy approached, her soft voice pulling Ashley from her reverie. “Ashley, you’ve got a call on one of the machines in the waiting room.”

Ashley blinked in confusion. “A call? But… why not my PokéNav?” She set the clipboard down and followed Nurse Joy to the waiting room, curiosity and unease twisting in her stomach. The glowing monitor of the video phone blinked with an incoming call. She hesitated for a moment, then pressed the button to answer.

Her parents’ faces appeared on the screen, her mom’s gentle smile and her dad’s steady expression immediately soothing some of the tension in her chest. “Mom? Dad?” she said, surprised. “What’s going on?”

Her dad leaned closer to the screen, his voice firm but laced with concern. “We heard about what happened at Sabrina’s gym. My contacts in Saffron told me you had a rough time.”

Ashley’s stomach dropped. Of course, her dad’s connections in law enforcement would’ve gotten word. “It was… something, alright,” she admitted, her voice shaky. “But Venus—she’s hurt. She’ll be okay, though,” she added quickly, seeing her mom’s worried expression. “Nurse Joy says she just needs rest.”

Delia placed a hand over her heart, visibly relieved. “Oh, thank goodness. And you, Ashley? Are you okay?”

Ashley hesitated, her fingers curling against the edge of the phone. “I’m… I’ll be fine. Shaken, but fine.” She offered a faint smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “It just feels weird, you know? I didn’t win the badge. It doesn’t feel right to keep it.”

Her mom’s expression softened. “Ashley, you earned that badge in a different way. Venus fought to help Sabrina, to save her and that gym. Not accepting the Marsh Badge would be a disservice to everything Venus did.”

Her dad nodded in agreement. “Your team isn’t just about battling, Ash. It’s about stepping up when things go wrong, and that’s exactly what you did. Sabrina gave you that badge because she recognized your strength, even if it wasn’t in a traditional battle.”

Ashley bit her lip, her heart aching as her parents’ words sank in. “I guess you’re right,” she murmured, glancing down. “It’s just… hard to think of it that way.”

Delia smiled gently. “You’ll see it differently once Venus is back on her feet. She’s a fighter, just like you.”

Ashley exhaled deeply, a small but genuine smile breaking through. “Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad.”

Her dad cleared his throat, his tone turning lighter. “By the way, we called through here instead of your PokéNav because we’ve got something special for you.”

Ashley tilted her head, curiosity sparking. “Special? What do you mean?”

Delia’s face lit up. “We can transfer Poké Balls through this machine. And there’s someone here who’s been dying to meet you.”

Ashley blinked at the screen, her parents’ faces looking back at her with a mix of concern and excitement. Her brain stalled for a second, processing her mom’s words. “Wait, wait, what? My second Eevee? You mean now?”

Delia chuckled softly. “Well, yes, now. We thought you could use a little good news after what happened, sweetie. And with the transfer machine, we can send him straight to you.”

Her dad, standing next to Delia, grinned. “He’s been bouncing around ever since he hatched. Full of energy and ready for adventure. We figured Saffron was as good a place as any to send him to you. Big city, big debut.”

Ashley rubbed the back of her neck, suddenly a little overwhelmed. “I mean, I’d love to meet him, but Venus is still recovering, and I don’t want to—”

“Don’t want to what? Make your Eevee happy?” her dad interrupted, raising an eyebrow. “Ashley, you’re overthinking. Venus isn’t going to feel replaced. You’re not doing anyone any favors by holding off. Besides, this Eevee’s raring to meet you. Trust me.”

Ashley opened her mouth to argue, but Delia cut her off, her tone gentler. “Sweetheart, we know you’re still processing everything that happened at Sabrina’s gym. But this is a reminder that good things are still happening, too. And Venus would probably love to meet her new teammate.”

Ashley hesitated, then sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Alright, alright. You win.” She gestured toward the transfer machine. “Send him over.”

Her mom’s face lit up, while her dad gave a thumbs-up. “One Eevee, incoming!” he said, stepping off-screen for a moment.

The machine in front of Ashley hummed to life, the screen blinking as data transferred across regions. A Poké Ball materialized in the slot with a bright flash. Ashley stared at it for a moment, the shiny red-and-white orb glinting under the fluorescent lights.

Delia clapped her hands. “We’ll let you two bond. Give Venus a kiss from us, and let us know how it goes with the new addition, okay?”

“Will do,” Ashley said, her smile softening. “Thanks, Mom. Thanks, Dad. This was… exactly what I needed.”

As the call ended, Ashley stood, cradling the Poké Ball in her arms. As Ashley walked down the quiet, sterile hallways of the Pokémon Center, she clipped the Poké Ball in her belt. No matter what her parents told her, she did not have it in herself to handle a new Pokémon right now. She felt too frazzled already, as if she was hanging by a wire.

Reaching the recovery room, she pushed the door open, her train of thought screeched to a halt as her eyes landed on someone unexpected. Standing near Venus’s bed, her arms crossed in a composed yet commanding manner, was Lorelei, the Ice-type master of the Indigo League Elite Four. Her crimson hair caught the overhead light, her glasses reflecting just enough to give her an air of authority.

Ashley blinked in disbelief. “Lorelei?! What are you doing here?”

Lorelei turned her sharp gaze toward Ashley, a small smile softening her usual stoic expression. “I was wondering when you’d show up,” she said, her tone as calm and cool as the Pokémon she specialized in. “I’ve been waiting.”

“For me?” Ashley stepped inside. “I mean, it’s not every day you see an Elite Four member hanging out in a Pokémon Center recovery room.”

Lorelei chuckled lightly. “You’d be surprised how often I visit these places. Especially when things like this happen.” She gestured vaguely to Venus, who was still resting comfortably, and then toward the city beyond the window. “You were at Sabrina’s gym, weren’t you?”

Ashley’s stomach twisted slightly at the memory. “Yeah,” she admitted, her voice quieter. “It was… something else. We barely made it out.”

Lorelei nodded, her expression turning serious. “I’ve been sent to investigate what in the Distortion World has been going on here. The Indigo League should’ve been informed the moment things started spiraling out of control, but apparently, no one thought to make that call.”

“Wait,” Ashley said, frowning. “You mean the League didn’t know about Sabrina?”

“Not until very recently,” Lorelei confirmed. “And by then, it was too late to intervene properly. I came here personally to assess the situation.” She glanced toward Ashley, her piercing gaze softening slightly. “It sounds like you’ve already done more than your share of handling it.”

Ashley shrugged, though her posture stiffened slightly. “I don’t know about that. We mostly just… survived.”

“That’s more than some could’ve done,” Lorelei said. “Sabrina’s power isn’t something to take lightly—especially not when it’s out of control.” She uncrossed her arms and took a step closer. “I also wanted to thank you.”

Ashley blinked. “Thank me? For what?”

Lorelei tilted her head slightly. “For alerting the authorities about the trafficked Pokémon. I was part of the team escorting them back to their home regions.”

Ashley’s eyes widened. “Wait, you were in charge of that?”

Lorelei nodded. “The Elite Four divided the responsibility between us. I personally oversaw the group heading to Alola. And while I was there…” She reached into her coat pocket, pulling out a single Poké Ball. “…I picked out something for you.”

Ashley stared at the Poké Ball in shock, her mouth opening and closing as she tried to process what was happening. “You… got me a Pokémon?”

Lorelei handed the ball to Ashley with a small smile. “I did promise you an Ice-type for your aid during the Seafoam Islands debacle. You’ve got potential, Ashley, but it’s clear you’re pushing yourself hard. This Pokémon should help you not only in battles but also remind you that you’re allowed to accept help when it’s offered.”

Ashley took the ball carefully, her fingers brushing against the cool surface. Her heart raced with curiosity and excitement, but Lorelei’s words held her attention more than the mystery of what was inside. “Thank you,” she said sincerely. “Really. I’ll take good care of… whoever’s in here.”

Lorelei nodded approvingly. “I’m sure you will. But I’ll let you discover them in your own time. I’ll leave you to it.”

“Wait,” Ashley said, taking a step forward. “Are you leaving already?”

Lorelei glanced over her shoulder, her smile turning faintly amused. “I’ve got work to do. And you’ve got your hands full.” She gestured toward the two new Poké Balls. “But who knows? Maybe we’ll meet again, under different circumstances.”

Before Ashley could say anything else, Lorelei slipped out of the room, her presence as commanding in her exit as it had been when Ashley first walked in. Ashley looked down at the Poké Ball in her hand, then at Venus, who was watching her curiously. “Well,” she said, exhaling deeply. “I guess today just keeps getting more interesting.”

Before Venus could even reply Nurse Joy and Chansey entered the recovery room, for one last check out. Nurse Joy’s gentle hands moved over Venus one last time, her expression soft but firm as she completed the Eevee’s final check-up. “She’s doing well,” Joy said, looking up at Ashley with a reassuring smile. “But remember to keep her out of battles for at least a week. She’s recovering, but she needs rest more than anything.”

Ashley nodded, her heart twisting as she looked at Venus. The Eevee blinked up at her with tired but trusting eyes, her trimmed fur evidence of the tough battle she’d endured. “Thanks, Nurse Joy,” Ashley murmured, stroking Venus’s head gently. “I’ll make sure she rests.”

With that, Ashley carefully recalled Venus into her Poké Ball, her fingers lingering on the button for a moment longer than necessary. The room suddenly felt quieter, emptier, without Venus’s presence. Swallowing the lump in her throat, Ashley turned to finish packing her things. Her backpack felt heavier than usual, not because of the contents, but because of the emotional weight she carried.

Lorelei had left the Pokémon Center earlier, her cryptic words still echoing in Ashley’s mind. She had said something about keeping an eye on the distortion affecting Kanto, and Ashley couldn’t help but feel like her journey had intersected with something far bigger than she could understand. But she wasn’t ready to face that yet. She wasn’t ready to face much of anything.

Once her pack was secured, Ashley left the Pokémon Center without looking back. The bright, bustling streets of Saffron City seemed to close in around her. The noise, the lights, the constant movement—it was all too much. Her chest felt tight as she made her way through the crowds, her head down and her pace brisk. She didn’t stop to admire the towering buildings or the neon signs she would normally marvel at. She didn’t pause to watch the wild Pidgey fluttering overhead or the street performers showcasing their Pokémon’s tricks. None of it mattered right now.

Saffron City disappeared behind her as she passed through the gates leading to Route 6. The path ahead was a mix of winding trails and open fields, dotted with the occasional tree and wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. Normally, Ashley would have taken her time here. She would have snapped pictures of the Butterfree dancing among the blooms, pointed out a curious Rattata scurrying through the grass, or released her team to stretch their legs and enjoy the open air. But not today.

Today, she kept walking, her eyes fixed on the path ahead. She didn’t stop to smell the flowers, didn’t slow down to appreciate the scenery. The warmth of the sun on her back and the soft chirping of wild Pokémon went unnoticed. Her mind was too full—of Venus’s battle, of the haunting experience in Sabrina’s gym, of Lorelei’s visit and the questions it left behind.

Her boots kicked up dust as the paved roads gave way to the rougher terrain of Route 6. Normally, Ashley would have been pointing out wild Pokémon to her team or snapping pictures of the scenery to send back to her parents. But today, the vibrant greenery of the route blurred together in her peripheral vision. Her heart was still heavy from everything that had happened. The excitement of holding a new Pokémon’s Poké Ball in her pocket couldn’t outweigh the mental fatigue that pressed on her shoulders.

She didn’t know how long she walked, only that the sun had started its descent by the time she realized she couldn’t go any farther without resting. Ashley realized her legs were aching, her muscles begging her to stop, her throat was dry as the desert. Spotting a small clearing near a creek, Ashley decided it was as good a place as any to set up camp.

Dropping her bag onto the ground, Ashley groaned, rubbing the back of her neck. Normally, setting up camp was a fun little routine she’d developed with her Pokémon. Neptune would ferry supplies with his shell, Venus would help fluff the sleeping bag, and Mars would light a fire with a flick of his tail. But not tonight. Tonight, it was just her.

She started with the tent, her fingers fumbling slightly as she unrolled it and struggled to secure the stakes. “Come on,” she muttered, yanking one corner taut. The tent seemed determined to resist her efforts, but after a few frustrating minutes, she managed to get it upright. It wasn’t perfect—one side sagged a bit—but it would do. Next, she pulled out her sleeping bag, spreading it inside the tent before gathering some firewood from nearby. Without Mars’s reliable flame, starting a fire took longer than she expected, and by the time she got a small blaze going, her patience was paper-thin.

Ashley dropped onto the ground beside the fire, pulling her knees to her chest. The warmth of the flames licked at her face, but it didn’t bring the comfort it usually did. She reached into her pocket, pulling out the Poké Ball Lorelei had given her. Turning it over in her hands, she stared at its polished surface, her reflection distorted in the curved metal.

“What kind of trainer are you?” she muttered to herself, her voice bitter. “Venus nearly got destroyed, and you’re sitting here sulking instead of figuring out how to get stronger.”

The Poké Ball felt heavier than it should have, and she tucked it back into her pocket with a frustrated sigh. She pulled her knees closer, resting her chin on them as the fire crackled softly. The quiet around her was unnerving. She missed the chatter of her team, the way they always seemed to fill the silence with their presence. But right now, she didn’t trust herself to face them.

Her stomach growled, but she didn’t move to grab food from her bag. The thought of eating alone made her chest tighten. “You’ll get over it,” she whispered, as if trying to convince herself. “Just... one night to reset.”

The stars began to peek through the darkening sky, their light flickering faintly against the creeping shadows of the trees. Ashley tilted her head back, watching them in silence. Normally, she’d point out constellations to her Pokémon or laugh when Mars pretended not to care but clearly listened. Now, the stars felt distant, like they belonged to someone else’s story.

The soft murmur of the creek in the distance was the only company she had, and for a moment, Ashley let herself close her eyes, her mind drifting. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of Venus’s battle, Damian’s encouragement, Lorelei’s cryptic words, and the weight of her journey so far. She had always known this adventure wouldn’t be easy, but she hadn’t expected it to feel so... lonely.

When she finally opened her eyes, the fire had burned down to embers, the warmth fading into the cool night air. She sighed, standing to add more wood to the fire. As the flames grew again, she reached for her bag, pulling out her PokéNav. She stared at the screen for a moment before opening her messages. Her thumb hovered over Damian’s name.

Ashley: Made it out of Saffron. Thanks again for everything.

She hit send before she could second-guess herself, tossing the PokéNav back into her bag. Sitting down again, she leaned back against the tent, staring into the fire. Making a decision, she took out her two new Poké Balls. It was finally time to meet them.

The flickering fire cast warm, dancing shadows on the walls of Ashley’s small campsite. She pulled her knees up to her chest, staring at the two Poké Balls in her hand. One was from her parents, holding the Eevee she had been waiting to meet since she started her journey. The other was Lorelei’s gift, a Pokémon that she still couldn’t quite believe she’d been entrusted with. Taking a deep breath, Ashley pressed the release buttons and set the balls down gently.

With twin flashes of light, the male Eevee and Alola Vulpix appeared.

Eevee stretched his small frame, blinking up at Ashley with wide, curious eyes. His coat was soft and pristine, and he immediately trotted over to sniff the ground, his bushy tail swaying.

The Alola Vulpix, by contrast, appeared with the kind of quiet elegance Ashley might expect from a Lorelei-trained Pokémon. She stepped forward delicately, her snow-white fur glinting in the firelight. Her icy blue eyes locked onto Ashley, assessing her with a look that was almost regal.

Ashley gave a low whistle, her grin spreading wide. “Wow, you two are something else, huh?” she said, her voice filled with awe. “Alright, let’s see what we’re working with here.”

She pulled out her Pokédex, flipping it open as it scanned the two Pokémon. The screen lit up with Eevee’s information first.

“Eevee,” Ashley read aloud. “Male. Ability: Adaptability. Moves: Tackle, Quick Attack, Sand Attack, Dig… Oh, and an egg move? Detect. But it’s locked for now.”

Eevee perked up at the sound of his stats being read, his ears twitching. He bounded over to Ashley and pawed lightly at her knee, as if to ask, What’s next?

Ashley laughed, scratching behind his ear. “Hold on, buddy, let’s check out your teammate first.”

She aimed the Pokédex at Vulpix, who was still standing a few feet away, her head held high.

“Alola Vulpix,” Ashley said. “Female. Ability: Snow Cloak. Moves: Disable, Powder Snow, Confuse Ray, Mist, Aurora Veil… And a hidden ability? Snow Warning.”

Her eyes widened as she processed the last detail. “Snow Warning? Seriously? Lorelei, you overachiever!” She looked up at the Vulpix, grinning. “I don’t even have to say it—you’re going to be amazing against any Dragon-types we face.”

The Vulpix tilted her head slightly, acknowledging the praise with a small, dignified yip.

“Okay, okay,” Ashley said, setting the Pokédex aside and reaching for her bag. “Before we get too ahead of ourselves, let’s eat. You’ve gotta be hungry after a day like this.”

She pulled out two bowls and filled them with Pokémon food, setting them down near the fire. Eevee immediately bounded over and started digging in, his enthusiasm making Ashley chuckle. “You don’t hold back, do you, buddy?”

Vulpix approached her bowl more cautiously. She sniffed it delicately, then began eating with small, precise bites. It was a stark contrast to Eevee’s energetic chomping.

As they ate, Ashley leaned back against her pack, watching them. She couldn’t help but marvel at how different they were. Eevee was all energy and curiosity, while Vulpix exuded calm confidence.

“So,” she said, addressing the two of them, “what are we gonna call you? You can’t just be ‘Eevee’ and ‘Vulpix’ forever. That’d be way too confusing once you evolve.”

Eevee perked up at the word “evolve,” his tail wagging furiously. He looked at Ashley expectantly, as if he already knew exactly what he wanted.

“Oh? Do you have something in mind?” Ashley asked, pulling out her Pokédex again. She scrolled to the section on Eevee evolutions, holding it out for him to see.

Eevee’s reaction was immediate. He reared up on his hind legs and jabbed his paw at the image of Jolteon.

“Jolteon, huh?” Ashley said, raising an eyebrow. “Let me guess—you take after your dad, right? Raichu’s gotta be proud.”

Eevee barked excitedly, his tail wagging even harder. Ashley laughed. “Alright, I get it. Jolteon it is. So, what about a name? Something fast, electric, maybe a little flashy…”

She thought for a moment before snapping her fingers. “Mercury. Fastest God, right? And it’s got a cool ring to it.”

Eevee barked again, his approval clear. He trotted in a circle, his excitement contagious.

Ashley turned her attention to Vulpix, who had finished her meal and was now grooming herself. “Alright, your turn, Miss Fancy Tails. You’ve got some big shoes to fill with that Snow Warning ability. How about… Chione? She’s a snow goddess.”

The Vulpix paused her grooming to look up at Ashley, her icy blue eyes thoughtful. After a moment, she gave a single, quiet yip and flicked her tails in approval.

“Chione it is,” Ashley said, grinning. “Welcome to the team, you two.”

As the night went on, the bond between them began to grow. Mercury darted around the campfire, chasing fireflies and occasionally tripping over his own paws. Chione stayed close to her new trainer, her calm demeanor unshaken as she watched Mercury’s antics with a mix of amusement and mild exasperation.

“Don’t worry, Chione,” Ashley said, stretching out on her sleeping bag. “He’ll settle down… eventually.”

Chione tilted her head, as if to say, I’ll believe it when I see it.

When the fire burned low and the stars filled the sky, Ashley pulled Mercury and Chione close, their warm and cool fur providing the perfect balance. As she drifted off to sleep, she felt a sense of peace she hadn’t experienced in days. With Mercury and Chione by her side, she fell asleep.

Ashley woke up to the gentle rustling of leaves and the faint hum of nature around her camp. The early morning sunlight filtered through the trees, casting soft golden beams onto the forest floor. She stretched under her blanket, glancing to her side where Mercury and Chione were curled up together, their soft breaths rising and falling in sync.

“Good morning, you two,” Ashley said quietly, not wanting to disturb the serene moment too soon.

Mercury’s ears twitched first, the Eevee lifting his head with a wide yawn and a tail wag that immediately brightened Ashley’s mood. Chione opened her icy blue eyes soon after, blinking sleepily before delicately stretching her paws in front of her and fluffing her pristine white fur.

Ashley smiled as she got up, dusting off her clothes and starting her morning routine. She made quick work of dousing the campfire’s remaining embers and folding her tent, occasionally glancing back to find Mercury sniffing curiously at every rock and root nearby while Chione sat regally in the sun, her fur sparkling like freshly fallen snow.

“Alright, breakfast first, then we hit the road,” Ashley said, pulling out their bowls and some Pokémon food. She filled one with a hearty mix for Mercury, who practically pounced on it, and prepared another for Chione, who accepted it with her usual composed nod of gratitude.

“You’re quite the pair,” Ashley chuckled, watching them eat. Mercury’s enthusiasm sent crumbs flying while Chione ate with the precision of someone who had perfected the art of dining. “One’s all energy, and the other’s royalty. What did I get myself into?”

Once breakfast was done and the camp was packed, Ashley slung her bag over her shoulder and adjusted the straps. Mercury darted ahead, his tail waving like a flag as he explored the edge of the path, while Chione trotted beside Ashley, her elegant pace matching her calm demeanor.

As they began their trek down Route 6, the forest opened up slightly, revealing the dirt path winding its way toward Vermilion City. The cool morning air filled Ashley’s lungs, and for the first time in a while, she felt a sense of calm. But she wasn’t going to travel alone for long.

Half an hour into the walk, she paused, looking at Mercury and Chione. “Alright, you two. Let’s bring out the rest of the crew. It’s about time they got to stretch their legs.”

She reached for the Poké Balls on her belt, tossing them into the air one by one. In bursts of light, her team appeared: Mars, the fierce Charmeleon; Vulcan, the ever-loyal Growlithe; Proserpina, the resilient Gloom; and Apollo, her playful Dratini, who immediately slithered up to her and coiled around her neck like his favorite scarf.

“Good to see you too, scarf boy,” Ashley teased, scratching Apollo under his chin. The Dratini chirped happily, nuzzling her cheek.

Mars stretched his arms, his tail flame flaring brighter in the cool morning air. Vulcan barked excitedly, his ears perking up as he scanned the surroundings. Proserpina waddled over to Ashley, giving her a little hum of approval before settling at her side.

Mercury darted up to Mars, clearly eager to play, while Chione flicked her tails and observed the group with quiet curiosity.

“Alright, team,” Ashley said, her voice carrying a newfound energy. “We’re heading to Vermilion City, but let’s take it easy. No battles, no stress. Just a good walk and some fresh air.”

Mars smirked, crossing his arms as if to say he didn’t mind a battle or two if the opportunity came up. Vulcan trotted ahead, his nose to the ground as he sniffed for anything interesting. Mercury bounded after him, barking in excitement. Proserpina and Chione followed more calmly, though Proserpina hummed a cheerful tune as she waddled along.

As they moved down the path, Ashley found herself smiling more and more. The quiet moments with her team, watching them interact and enjoy the journey, were exactly what she needed after the chaos of the past few weeks. Even with the ache of Venus’s absence lingering in the back of her mind, she felt lighter. Her team was here, and they were moving forward together.

The morning passed in a peaceful rhythm. Ashley occasionally paused to take a sip of water or give her team snacks. Mars and Vulcan had a playful spar, their fiery personalities clashing in a way that made Ashley laugh. Mercury tried to join in, only to get playfully batted away by Mars, who then patted the smaller Eevee’s head in a rare show of affection. Chione stayed close to Ashley, though she occasionally flicked snow at Mercury or Vulcan when they got too rowdy.

“Chione, you’ve got a mean streak,” Ashley teased, watching as the Vulpix sent another perfectly aimed puff of snow into Vulcan’s face. The Growlithe shook his head, his tail wagging as if accepting the challenge.

As the team began to settle into their usual antics, Ashley couldn’t help but feel the ache in her chest as she looked around. Venus wasn’t there. She should’ve been racing around with Mercury or teasing Vulcan into chasing her. Ashley sighed softly but reminded herself that Venus needed rest to recover fully. She wasn’t going to risk her partner’s health for the sake of companionship.

Instead, Ashley focused on capturing more moments with the camera app on her PokéNav, finding solace in the vibrant energy of her Pokémon. She crouched low, the sunlight filtering through the trees casting a golden glow on the scene, and aimed her lens at Chione. The Alolan Vulpix was mid-leap, her snow-white fur catching the light in a way that made her look almost ethereal. Her paws stretched forward gracefully as she sailed over a fallen log, her delicate movements perfectly accentuated by the fading sunlight. The resulting shot was picture-perfect, a snapshot of elegance and playfulness.

Before Ashley could stand, Mercury bounded into the frame, his curious energy adding a new layer to the scene. He nudged Chione playfully, his movements swift and full of enthusiasm, his tail wagging as if to encourage her to chase him. Chione darted after him with a delighted yip, their playful nips and light tackles creating a lively flurry of movement. Ashley laughed softly as she tried to capture the dynamic pair in motion, the photos blurring slightly in the best way to reflect their energy. She swiped through the shots and smiled. “You two are naturals,” she murmured.

After a while, Ashley noticed that things had quieted behind her. Turning, she caught sight of Apollo, the Dratini wrapped snugly around her neck like his usual scarf, his soft snores faintly audible. Ashley chuckled and decided it was selfie time. Holding up her PokéNav, she angled the camera to capture her own face, glowing with contentment, alongside the peacefully napping dragon-type. Apollo’s serene expression contrasted hilariously with the energetic chaos in the background, where Mars and Vulcan had joined Mercury and Chione in a new game of chase.

Ashley snapped a few selfies, leaning her head slightly against Apollo’s coils and grinning wide for the camera. “Look at us,” she said to the Dratini even though he was fast asleep. “Just a couple of travelers soaking up the peace before the next storm.”

She added some silly faces to the mix, sticking her tongue out and winking in one shot, holding up a peace sign in another. Apollo, blissfully unaware, remained the unbothered star of every picture. Satisfied, Ashley swiped through the gallery, her smile growing wider with every photo. Each image was a little piece of calm in the whirlwind of her journey, a reminder that even in the chaos, moments like these made it all worthwhile.

“Alright, team, let’s find a good spot to set up camp before it gets too dark,” Ashley called out, slinging her camera back over her shoulder. The Pantheon fell in line as she led them off the main path, her sharp eyes spotting a clearing by a gently flowing stream. The golden hues of the setting sun painted the area in soft light, making it feel peaceful despite the day’s travel.

Ashley made quick work of setting up her tent, the rhythmic movements calming her mind. As the firepit crackled to life, she laid out food bowls for her Pokémon, each marked with their names. She smiled as Mars and Vulcan instantly dug in, while Mercury and Chione sniffed their meals before settling in to eat.

As twilight descended, Ashley reached for Venus’s Poké Ball. “Okay, girl,” she murmured, releasing her Eevee into the clearing. Venus appeared in a flash of light, stretching luxuriously as if she’d just woken up from a spa day. She blinked at Ashley, her gaze soft but expectant, and then turned her attention to the Pantheon with a regal air.

Ashley didn’t need to say anything. Venus immediately strutted over to where Mercury and Chione were sitting, her tail swishing elegantly. She gave Mercury a light nudge, prompting him to sit straighter, and sniffed Chione with a discerning eye before giving her an approving nod. The younger Pokémon seemed to respond to her presence immediately, their playful energy shifting into something more focused.

“Well, I guess that settles it,” Ashley muttered, watching the scene unfold with a smirk. “Venus is back on duty.”

Venus positioned herself in the center of the group like a regal queen holding court, her chest puffed out and her fluffy tail swishing lazily behind her. Her bright eyes, sharp and full of command, darted between Mercury and Chione as if she were assessing their potential with all the seriousness of a veteran trainer. Mercury, eager to please, sat attentively, his tail wagging slightly in anticipation. Chione, ever graceful, mirrored the posture but kept her gaze cool and calm, clearly curious about what Venus had planned.

Then Venus raised a paw, and as if presenting a sacred artifact, she revealed a TM. Ashley’s jaw dropped, the camera in her hand lowering slightly. "Wait, what? Venus, where in the Distortion World did you—?" Her voice trailed off as she realized exactly what had happened. Venus had somehow snuck into her bag and pilfered the TM.

Ashley groaned, rubbing her temples. "Of course, you stole that. Why wouldn’t you? You’re practically a professional thief at this point." Venus ignored her entirely, her nose in the air as if to say, Your approval wasn’t needed, darling.

With a flick of her paw, Venus rolled the TM toward Mercury and Chione, gesturing with a pointed glance for them to touch it. Mercury hesitated for half a second, glancing at Ashley for confirmation. When Ashley shrugged, mumbling, "Well, she’s not wrong. It’s a good move," he eagerly nudged the TM with his paw. Chione followed with a dainty touch of her own, her nose wrinkling as the data downloaded into her brain.

And then Venus, seasoned TM user and self-appointed training guru, stepped into action. She demonstrated Swift with her usual flair, leaping gracefully into the air and sending a precise flurry of glowing golden stars hurtling toward a nearby tree trunk. The stars sparkled as they made impact, leaving faint marks on the bark. Venus landed lightly, turned to face her pupils, and sat back down with an air of expectation. Mercury and Chione exchanged glances before attempting the move themselves.

Mercury was the first to try, his stars shooting out in a scattered, chaotic burst. They glimmered beautifully but barely reached their target. Chione tilted her head, unimpressed, before stepping forward. Her execution was more controlled, though her stars fizzled slightly before hitting the tree. Venus gave a small huff, walking between them to adjust their stances with her paw and chirping what could only be interpreted as detailed instructions.

Meanwhile, Mars and Vulcan watched from the sidelines, lounging beneath the shade of a nearby tree. Mars leaned back on his claws, his tail flame flickering lazily as he shot Vulcan a sideways glance. Vulcan tilted his head toward Venus and raised a single eyebrow, as if silently asking, How did we get roped into this? Mars snickered under his breath, crossing his arms as if to say, Don’t ask me—I just work here.

Ashley, leaning against another tree nearby, couldn’t stop laughing softly as she observed the scene. She raised her PokéNav and snapped a few more photos, capturing Mercury’s determined face as he tried Swift again, his stars landing slightly closer to their target. Another click immortalized Chione’s second attempt, her icy grace evident even in the golden flurry she produced.

But the best shot, in Ashley’s opinion, was Venus herself. The Eevee stood tall in the center of it all, her eyes gleaming with pride as her "students" improved before her. The light from the setting sun haloed her fur, giving her an almost angelic glow. "Look at you," Ashley whispered with a grin. "Venus, the queen, ruling her kingdom."

Venus turned her head slightly, one ear flicking as if she’d heard Ashley. But instead of acknowledging her trainer, she went back to barking out more orders, pointing to the tree trunk as if challenging Mercury and Chione to do better. Ashley chuckled, shaking her head. "Diva," she muttered affectionately before snapping one last photo of the determined group.

“You’re incredible, Venus,” Ashley said under her breath. “Even when you’re not battling, you’re still the heart of this team.”

The night deepened, stars dotting the sky as the Pantheon continued their impromptu training under Venus’s guidance. Ashley sat by the fire, her PokéNav resting in her lap as she watched her Pokémon. Her heart felt lighter, the weight of the past few days slowly easing. Venus’s confidence seemed to radiate through the entire group, reminding Ashley that nothing will ever keep her Pokémon down.

Thanks to the TM’s Ashley had on hand—and Venus’s tireless efforts as an unofficial coach—Mercury and Chione had made impressive progress during their journey toward Vermilion City. Over the course of several days, the two new recruits went from rookies to skillful battlers, learning not only the mechanics of their new moves but how to integrate them effectively in battle and coordination.

Mercury had taken a particular shine to Swift, eagerly practicing the move until his golden stars shot out in controlled, radiant arcs that zipped through the air like tiny comets. He combined it with Double Team to create illusions of himself, each one firing identical stars that dazzled the target and left opponents guessing which one was real. Ashley couldn’t help but smile every time he executed it flawlessly, his tail wagging excitedly as if to say, Did you see that?

And then there was Sunny Day, which Mercury took on with particular pride. It was a nod to his admiration for his mother, the Flareon he adored. Mercury would leap gracefully, summoning a glowing orb of light that climbed into the sky and brightened the battlefield. The sunlight not only boosted his teammates' morale but also hinted at his determination to evolve into a Jolteon, a future where his speed and lightning-fast strikes would match the sun's intensity. Ashley couldn't help but feel a swell of pride watching him develop, knowing how deeply personal this move must have been for him.

Chione, on the other hand, mastered her moves with an icy elegance that reflected her personality. Her Swift had a different flair compared to Mercury’s—it was sharper, faster, and almost seemed to sparkle with a frosty sheen. Her Ice Beam quickly became her signature attack. She practiced until the beam of frigid energy was strong enough to freeze a targeted boulder solid, leaving intricate frost patterns in its wake. Ashley found herself marveling at the precision Chione displayed, the Vulpix’s focus unshaken even when Mercury’s playful antics tried to distract her.

Chione’s use of Substitute was almost theatrical. She would craft a decoy with a dramatic flourish, often paired with her Double Team to create a scene where opponents struggled to figure out which version was real. The finesse in her execution left even Venus, the queen of battle theatrics, nodding approvingly.

By the time they neared Vermilion City, the two Pokémon had become a seamless part of Ashley’s growing Pantheon. Venus watched over them like a proud mentor, occasionally stepping in to refine their techniques or redirect their energy when they got carried away. Mars and Vulcan occasionally pitched in, offering challenges to test the duo’s progress. Even Apollo, still coiled around Ashley’s neck most of the time, would peek out to chirp encouragements during their training sessions.

Ashley found herself beaming with pride as she observed her team’s progress. Each new move felt like a step toward something bigger—a stronger Pantheon, a more confident Mercury and Chione, and herself growing as a trainer. She knew her mentors—Koga with his tactical mindset, Lorelei with her emphasis on balance, and even Blaine with his practical, survival-based training—would all be impressed with how far she had come.

As she watched Mercury summon a perfect Sunny Day that cast golden rays over the forest path and Chione fire a chilling Ice Beam into the sunlight, creating a cascade of refracted rainbows, Ashley grinned to herself.

The fire crackled gently, casting a warm, flickering glow over the small clearing where Ashley had set up her camp. Her team had settled down for the night, the air filled with the soothing sound of rustling leaves and the distant calls of wild Pokémon. Chione lay curled up near the edge of the fire, her alabaster fur reflecting the flames, while Mercury had plopped himself on a soft patch of grass, his tail twitching contentedly. Vulcan and Mars were off to the side, playfully sparring under the watchful eyes of Proserpina, who occasionally barked a firm correction when their enthusiasm got a little too wild.

Ashley sat cross-legged near her tent, her grooming kit spread out neatly beside her. Venus lounged in front of her like a queen awaiting her royal spa treatment, her paws tucked neatly under her chest and her eyes half-lidded in contentment. The dim light caught on her recently trimmed fur, which had lost a bit of its usual luster from the intense battle in Saffron City.

Ashley picked up a soft-bristle brush and began to run it gently through Venus’s fur, starting with her ears. “Alright, Venus,” she said, her voice warm and teasing, “this is the deluxe treatment tonight. Just you and me, okay?”

Venus let out a soft chirp, closing her eyes completely as Ashley worked. Her tail flicked lazily, and her body relaxed under Ashley’s careful hands. Ashley chuckled softly, shaking her head. “I swear, you’re getting spoiled. You’re going to expect this every night, aren’t you?”

Venus cracked one eye open, her expression smug. She gave a soft yip, as if to say, Of course I will.

“Oh, don’t push it,” Ashley said, laughing, but she leaned closer, brushing with extra care. She moved down to Venus’s neck and chest, brushing out the fine fur there before switching to a polishing cloth to give it a light sheen. “You’ll be back to your old self in no time,” Ashley promised, her tone turning softer. “This fur’s got a lot of fight in it—just like you.”

Venus let out a pleased hum, her ears twitching slightly at the compliment. Ashley continued, her strokes rhythmic and soothing. As she worked on Venus’s sides, she glanced over at the rest of the team. Mercury was now dozing lightly, his paws tucked under him, while Chione had begun to entertain herself by conjuring tiny puffs of snow and scattering them across the grass. The playful display made Ashley smile, and she made a mental note to bring out her PokéNav camera again tomorrow.

“Do you see that, Venus?” Ashley asked, nodding toward Chione. “Your new protégé is shaping up to be quite the show-off. I think she’s aiming to steal your diva crown.”

Venus opened her eyes and tilted her head toward Chione, letting out a soft, approving yip.

Ashley grinned, moving the brush down Venus’s back and toward her tail. “That’s right, you’re still queen bee around here. But it wouldn’t hurt to share the spotlight a little, you know?”

The Eevee gave a pointed flick of her tail, her expression unimpressed. Ashley laughed again, shaking her head. “Okay, okay, one diva per team. Got it.”

As the brushing session continued, Ashley’s tone grew thoughtful. “You’ve been through so much, Venus,” she said quietly, her voice barely above a whisper. “That fight with Sabrina’s Abra... I know it was rough. But you were incredible, you know? You didn’t give up, even when things got bad.”

Venus turned her head slightly, her bright eyes meeting Ashley’s. For a moment, trainer and Pokémon shared an unspoken understanding. Ashley reached out, stroking Venus’s cheek gently. “You’re my rock, girl. And I promise, I’m going to make sure you’re always at your best.”

With the final strokes of the brush, Venus’s fur gleamed softly in the firelight. Ashley set the tools aside and leaned back, admiring her work. “There,” she said, satisfied. “Fit for royalty again.”

Venus stood, giving her fur a small shake before prancing around in a circle, showing off her refreshed coat. Ashley clapped lightly, grinning. “Look at you! You’re going to make the whole team jealous.”

The Eevee hopped onto Ashley’s lap, curling up and resting her head on Ashley’s knee. The show of affection had Ashley feeling a lump rise in her throat. She gently stroked Venus’s head, her touch light and careful.

“I love you too, Venus,” she murmured, her voice soft. The two sat in quiet companionship for a while, the fire crackling softly in the background.

As the stars began to dot the night sky, Ashley’s heart felt lighter. Her team was healing, and so was she. Tomorrow, they would reach Vermilion City, ready to face whatever challenges came next. For now, though, she was content to stay here, surrounded by the warmth of the fire and the steady presence of her beloved Pokémon.

Chapter Text

The Pokémon Center was quiet, the usual hum of late-night activity reduced to a few sleepy trainers lounging in the waiting area, their Pokémon snoozing by their sides. Nurse Joy stood at the front desk, her Chansey bustling beside her as they went through the usual evening paperwork. The soothing sound of the sliding doors opening drew her attention, and she instinctively looked up with her practiced welcoming smile.

"Welcome to the—" The greeting stalled briefly in her throat as her eyes settled on the young woman stepping through the doors.

The girl was striking, not for any flamboyance but for the quiet determination etched into her features. Long, dark hair fell loose over her shoulders, the soft sway of it matching her measured steps. She wore a simple yet coordinated outfit: a pink skirt, a white shirt under a black vest, and a white-and-pink hat perched atop her head. At her feet walked two Eevee—one with fur so impeccably groomed it seemed to sparkle under the center’s fluorescent lights, and the other with an eager, curious bounce to his step, his wide eyes darting around to take in everything.

Nurse Joy's heart clenched slightly as realization hit. This was Ashley Ketchum. Her cousins from various Pokémon Centers had spoken of her with fondness, recounting tales of a polite, dedicated trainer who always took exceptional care of her Pokémon. Ashley’s reputation had grown quickly—an up-and-coming rookie trainer who had earned the respect of gym leaders and contest coordinators alike. But behind the admiration, there was also sympathy. Everyone had heard about what happened to her and her Eevee, Venus, in Saffron City. The details were murky, but what was clear was that it had been harrowing.

Pushing these thoughts aside, Nurse Joy composed herself and brightened her smile. She was a professional, and her job was to provide comfort and support. “Good evening! Welcome to the Vermilion Pokémon Center,” she said warmly.

Ashley approached the desk, her expression tired but polite. Her brown eyes still held a flicker of warmth, though they seemed weighed down by fatigue. She reached into her bag and pulled out her trainer ID, placing it on the counter. “Hi, I’d like to book a room for the night and sign up for tomorrow’s contest at the Vermilion Contest Hall,” she said, her voice calm but soft, as if she were conserving energy.

“Of course, Miss Ketchum,” Nurse Joy replied, accepting the ID and typing swiftly into the system. “We have plenty of rooms available, and I can get you registered for the contest right now.”

As she worked, Ashley crouched down beside her Eevee. Venus, ever the dignified diva, sat primly by her side, while Mercury pawed lightly at Ashley’s knee, his tail wagging. “It’s just for one night,” Ashley murmured to them, giving Mercury a reassuring scratch behind the ears. “Tomorrow, we’ll be ready to shine.”

Nurse Joy handed back the ID, her gaze softening. “All set, Miss Ketchum. Your room is on the second floor, and here’s your keycard. Would you like to leave your Pokémon with us for a check-up tonight? We’ll make sure they’re in perfect condition for the contest tomorrow.”

Ashley hesitated briefly, glancing at the Poké Balls clipped to her belt. “Yeah, that would be great,” she said after a moment. She unclipped the balls one by one, pausing as her fingers brushed over each one. “They’ve all been working so hard. A little extra care couldn’t hurt.”

She handed the Poké Balls to Nurse Joy, who accepted them with a gentle nod. Chansey waddled over, holding a tray to carefully collect the capsules. “We’ll take great care of them,” Nurse Joy assured her. “They’ll be ready for you first thing in the morning.”

“Thanks, Nurse Joy. I really appreciate it.” Ashley offered a small smile, her shoulders relaxing slightly. She recalled her Eevees and gave Nurse Joy those Poké Balls as well. “Goodnight,” Ashley said quietly before heading toward the stairs, her steps steady but unhurried.

Nurse Joy watched her go, her heart tugging once more. This girl carried herself with such quiet resilience, even after all she’d been through. As the doors to the second floor closed behind Ashley, Nurse Joy turned back to her duties, already planning to give her Pokémon a little extra TLC tonight. Trainers like Ashley deserved it.

Nurse Joy and Chansey guided Ashley’s Pokémon to the back rooms. As the team emerged one by one from their Poké Balls, Nurse Joy’s professional demeanor gave way to quiet amazement. The Charmeleon, stretched his arms with a dignified air, his tail flame flickering steadily as he surveyed the room with a protective glance toward the rest of the team. The Growlithe, was all energy, immediately trotting over to Chansey and sniffing curiously at her basket of berries. His fluffy orange coat gleamed with health, the product of attentive care.

Next came the Lapras, who materialized with a soft, melodic hum. The water Pokémon’s calm presence filled the space, and his shell shimmered faintly under the bright lights. Joy took a moment to appreciate how Neptune’s eyes seemed to follow the activity with quiet intelligence.

The Gloom, waddled out and yawned dramatically, her petals twitching as she looked for a comfortable corner to settle in. There was a serene confidence in her movements, as though she carried the wisdom of countless battles.

When the Dratini, materialized, he immediately coiled himself into a neat little spiral on one of the examination beds, his smooth blue scales catching the light like rippling water. He lifted his head lazily, blinking at Nurse Joy as though sizing her up before settling down again.

The Alolan Vulpix, appeared next in a swirl of icy mist, her snow-white fur making her seem almost otherworldly. She shook herself delicately, sending a few sparkles of frost into the air, and padded over to sit primly beside Neptune.

Then came the Eevees. The female one emerged with an unmistakable air of royalty, her fur perfectly groomed and her steps light yet deliberate as she leaped onto an empty counter to oversee the proceedings. She gave Nurse Joy a sharp look, as if to say, Don’t mess this up, before curling her tail neatly around her paws. The male one, in contrast, popped out with boundless energy, his head swiveling in every direction as he took in his new surroundings. He trotted after Vulcan, mimicking his older teammate’s curious inspection of Chansey’s supplies.

Nurse Joy mentally counted the Pokémon as they settled in, her smile faltering briefly. Eight Pokémon? That wasn’t typical for a rookie trainer. Her gaze shifted to the screen displaying Ashley’s trainer ID, and her eyes widened as she noticed the note attached to the file: “Trainer authorized to carry more than six Pokémon—League exception granted.” Nurse Joy raised an eyebrow. That kind of exception wasn’t just handed out. Whoever Ashley Ketchum was, she’d clearly caught the attention of some important people in the League.

Turning back to the team, Joy’s smile returned as she reviewed their profiles. The names Ashley had chosen stood out immediately. Mars, Vulcan, Neptune, Proserpina, Apollo, Chione, Venus, and Mercury. Each one carefully selected, rich with meaning. It wasn’t just a list of names; it was a reflection of the bond she had with her Pokémon.

Chansey began the routine check-ups, starting with Mercury and Chione. The male Eevee flinched slightly at the stethoscope’s touch but quickly relaxed when Chansey offered him a gentle pat on the head. Chione, ever composed, sat perfectly still, her icy breath misting faintly in the air as Chansey inspected her.

Next, they moved to Mars and Vulcan. Mars huffed, his fiery tail curling around his feet as if to say, I don’t need a check-up, I’m fine. Vulcan, on the other hand, wagged his tail enthusiastically, clearly enjoying the attention as Chansey checked his teeth and paws.

Neptune was as cooperative as ever, his calm demeanor making the process easy. Proserpina grumbled softly, but a few reassuring words from Nurse Joy kept her in place. Apollo stretched lazily, his movements so slow and relaxed that Chansey chuckled as she tried to check his vitals.

Finally, they reached Venus. Nurse Joy’s heart softened as she saw the Eevee’s elegant pose and bright, intelligent eyes. Despite everything Venus had been through, she radiated strength and resilience. Nurse Joy gently ran her hand over Venus’s coat, noting how soft it had become after Ashley’s meticulous care. She smiled. “You’re back to your old self, aren’t you?” she murmured.

Venus responded with a regal flick of her tail, but there was a hint of warmth in her gaze as she glanced at Mercury and Chione, who were busy chasing each other in circles.

By the end of the check-up, Nurse Joy was thoroughly impressed. Every member of Ashley’s team was in exemplary form—not just physically, but emotionally as well. It was clear that Ashley was a trainer who cared deeply for her Pokémon, nurturing their individual strengths and personalities.

As Nurse Joy finished updating the files, she glanced at Chansey, who gave an approving nod. “They’re all in top condition,” Joy said softly, glancing back at the team. “Ashley Ketchum… no wonder you’ve been the talk of my cousins.”

After leaving the back rooms for Ashley’s team to rest, Nurse Joy and Chansey were relieved by another set of nurses and Pokémon. After leaving the bustling Pokémon Center behind, Nurse Joy and Chansey stepped into the cool Vermilion evening. The air was calm, filled with the faint hum of distant waves from the harbor. The duo strolled down the cobblestone path to their nearby home, a quaint little house tucked just around the corner from the Pokémon Center. It was a cozy retreat, painted a soft pink with white shutters and flower boxes brimming with blooming berries.

As soon as they entered, Joy let out a small sigh of relief, setting her bag down by the door. “Well, Chansey, that was quite a day,” she said, her voice light but tired. Chansey chirped in agreement, patting her trainer’s arm affectionately before waddling off to help unpack their supplies.

Joy stretched her arms high above her head, the day’s tension melting away. “I’m heading for a shower,” she announced, already halfway up the stairs. “Keep an eye on the stew, okay?”

Chansey saluted cheerfully before bustling into the kitchen, her stubby arms expertly tending to the bubbling pot on the stove. The aroma of herbs and fresh vegetables filled the house, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Upstairs, Nurse Joy let the hot water wash over her, her thoughts drifting to Ashley and her remarkable team. She couldn’t help but smile as she replayed the moment Chione, the Alolan Vulpix, had materialized in a swirl of icy mist. An Alolan Vulpix, she thought, rinsing soap from her hair. Those are practically unheard of outside of Alola. Who could have given it to her?

Wrapping herself in a soft towel, Joy padded back downstairs just as Chansey was setting the table. The stew was perfectly ladled into two bowls, steam curling from the surface. Joy sat down with a grateful hum, letting the warmth of the meal and the comfort of home ease her.

As she sipped her stew, she couldn’t stop herself from speculating out loud. “You know, Chansey, I wonder where Ashley got permission to carry more than six Pokémon. That’s not exactly standard for a rookie trainer. Someone high up must have vouched for her.”

Chansey tilted her head thoughtfully, then gave a knowing wink as if to say, Whoever it was, they must have seen something special in her.

Joy chuckled. “No kidding. And they were right. That team of hers is incredible. Did you see how well-groomed they all were? And their moves! That Alolan Vulpix knows Aurora Veil, for goodness’ sake. Not to mention Venus, the female Eevee—she has such a presence.”

Chansey nodded enthusiastically, her stubby arms mimicking Venus’s regal stance as Joy laughed. “It’s no wonder all the Joys talk about her. I mean, she’s polite, her Pokémon are well-behaved, and she clearly cares for them deeply. I can’t wait to see her contest performance tomorrow.”

At the mention of the contest, Joy’s eyes lit up. “Oh, it’s going to be exciting! I love that we Joys get to judge these events. Seeing the bonds between trainers and their Pokémon is always so inspiring. And Ashley—well, I have a feeling she’ll be one to watch.”

Chansey clapped her hands, chirping in agreement as she pushed a small bowl of berries toward Joy. The two finished their meal, their conversation peppered with anticipation for the next day’s event.

After cleaning up, they prepared for bed. Joy double-checked her notes for the contest before slipping under her pink and white comforter. Chansey snuggled into her own bed, a miniature version in the corner of the room. The soft glow of a moonlit night filled the space as Joy closed her eyes.

“Goodnight, Chansey,” she murmured.

“Chan-sey,” came the drowsy reply.

As sleep overtook them, their thoughts lingered on the promise of tomorrow. Joy couldn’t shake the feeling that the upcoming contest would be something special, and she couldn’t wait to see what Ashley Ketchum and her extraordinary team had in store.

The morning sunlight streamed through the curtains of Nurse Joy’s cozy home, casting a soft glow across the room. Joy stretched in her bed, a peaceful smile on her face as she turned to see Chansey already bustling about. The cheerful Pokémon was carefully preparing Joy’s contest uniform, a tailored outfit of pale pink and white, complete with an embroidered emblem of the Pokémon League. Joy chuckled, sitting up and running a hand through her hair.

“Thanks, Chansey. You’re always one step ahead of me,” she said, her tone warm.

Chansey beamed, chirping a happy reply before pushing a tray toward Joy’s bedside—a simple breakfast of tea and toast. Joy quickly ate, eager to get ready for the day. She dressed swiftly, fastening the final button on her uniform as Chansey adjusted her nurse cap to sit perfectly.

With a nod of approval, Joy grabbed her bag and said, “Let’s go, Chansey. Today’s the big day.”

The duo stepped outside into the crisp morning air, Vermilion City waking with a slow, deliberate rhythm that Nurse Joy had come to adore. The scent of salt and sea carried on the gentle breeze, mingling with the faint aroma of freshly baked bread from the harbor-side cafés. Wingull circled lazily above, their cries echoing over the docks, where the early risers among the sailors and fishermen were already at work. The gentle creak of ropes and the occasional clang of a ship’s bell provided a soothing backdrop to the scene, a melody unique to Vermilion.

Nurse Joy inhaled deeply, savoring the cool air. She loved her city—every corner of it felt alive, from the bustling port with its massive cruise liners to the charming streets lined with vendors selling everything from seashell jewelry to freshly grilled Magikarp skewers. The docks were the heart of Vermilion, a constant hive of activity where people from all over the world arrived and departed, each bringing a piece of their home with them. The city was a mosaic of cultures, its port a gateway that connected Kanto to regions near and far.

Her pace quickened as her eyes caught the first glimmer of the Vermilion Contest Hall’s façade. The building stood proudly at the heart of the city, an elegant structure that managed to blend Vermilion’s nautical charm with the grandeur befitting a contest venue. Its sweeping arches seemed almost wave-like, curving gracefully against the skyline, while its stained-glass windows depicted various Pokémon in contest poses, their vibrant colors catching the morning sunlight. To Joy, it symbolized the city’s spirit—proud, welcoming, and endlessly creative.

She glanced toward the docks as she walked, watching the cargo ships unload their goods with practiced efficiency. A group of sailors joked loudly as they hoisted crates onto the pier, their laughter mingling with the squawk of Pelipper perched on the rigging above. A sense of pride swelled in her chest. Vermilion wasn’t just her home—it was a city full of stories, a place where people came together to share their lives, their Pokémon, and their dreams.

“Vermilion never sleeps,” she murmured to herself, a smile tugging at her lips. “Even at its quietest, it’s always moving.”

Chansey gave a cheerful chirp of agreement, waddling along beside her with an energetic bounce. The Pokémon seemed equally enthralled by the morning bustle, her gaze darting toward the fishermen hauling in their nets and the children skipping stones along the water’s edge.

As much as Joy adored her city, she couldn’t help but think about its most vexing resident: Lieutenant Surge, the local Gym Leader. His larger-than-life personality and boisterous ways had a way of getting under her skin. He was brash, loud, and had a knack for turning simple conversations into full-blown debates about strategy or battle techniques. And yet, she had to admit, he was as much a part of Vermilion’s charm as the docks and the Contest Hall.

“Probably yelling at one of his trainers to ‘shock ‘em good,’” Joy muttered with a shake of her head. Chansey giggled, clearly amused by her trainer’s exasperation.

Despite his antics, Joy knew Surge cared deeply about Vermilion and its people. He was always the first to volunteer when the port needed help or when trainers sought guidance in battles. As frustrating as he could be, Vermilion wouldn’t be the same without him.

Turning a corner, Joy’s thoughts refocused as the Contest Hall came into full view. It was more than just a building to her—it was a place of joy, creativity, and connection. The contests brought trainers and spectators together, showcasing not just the strength of Pokémon but their grace, intelligence, and personality. It was a celebration of the bonds between trainers and their partners, a reminder of why she loved her work.

As she approached the hall, its polished façade gleaming in the sunlight, Joy felt a familiar sense of excitement bubbling within her. Today, Vermilion would shine, just as it always did, and she was honored to be a part of it.

Inside, the hall was eerily quiet, the usual buzz of trainers and spectators replaced with a calm stillness. Joy felt a slight chill as she entered, a stark contrast to the warm excitement she knew would soon fill the space. She walked briskly toward the stage, her heels clicking softly against the polished marble floors. Chansey waddled beside her, carrying a clipboard that seemed comically oversized in her stubby arms.

On stage, two familiar figures were already waiting. Mr. Contesta, a distinguished man with a sharp suit and an air of authority, was reviewing a set of notes. Beside him stood Mr. Sukizo, a shorter, jolly man with a round face and a twinkle in his eye. He was adjusting his tie, muttering something about how it “must look impressive for such a remarkable day.”

“Good morning, gentlemen!” Joy called as she approached, her voice bright.

“Ah, Nurse Joy!” Mr. Contesta greeted, straightening and offering a polite bow. “Punctual as ever. It’s always a pleasure having you on the judging panel.”

Mr. Sukizo nodded enthusiastically. “Truly remarkable!” he declared, his trademark phrase bringing a small laugh to Joy’s lips.

She joined them on stage, glancing around at the empty hall. Rows of seats stretched out before them, the faint glow of the stage lights illuminating the polished floors and intricate carvings along the walls. Behind the stage, a massive screen hung, ready to display the action for the audience. The atmosphere felt anticipatory, like the calm before a storm.

“We’ve got about an hour until the trainers and spectators start arriving,” Mr. Contesta informed her, his tone all business. “I trust you’ve reviewed the list of contestants?”

“I have,” Joy replied, her smile softening. “There are some promising trainers today, but there’s one in particular I’m looking forward to seeing.”

“Let me guess,” Mr. Sukizo chimed in, a knowing grin on his face. “Ashley Ketchum?”

Joy couldn’t help but laugh. “Guilty as charged. She’s already made quite the impression on my family. If she’s anything like what they’ve said, today’s contest will be unforgettable.”

Mr. Contesta adjusted his glasses, his expression thoughtful. “I’ve heard whispers of her progress as well. It will be interesting to see how she fares under the pressure of a live audience.”

As the three judges discussed the upcoming competition, Chansey took the opportunity to inspect the stage, ensuring every detail was perfect. She adjusted the positioning of the podiums, fluffed the decorative banners, and even polished the bell used to signal the start of each round. Joy watched her partner fondly, feeling a sense of pride in Chansey’s dedication.

The peaceful quiet was soon broken by the distant sound of footsteps and murmurs. The trainers were starting to arrive, their voices echoing faintly in the grand hall. Joy straightened her posture, her expression shifting to one of professionalism.

“It’s time,” Mr. Contesta said, his voice carrying a hint of excitement.

The three judges moved to their designated seats behind the judging table, their chairs elevated slightly to give them a clear view of the stage. The empty hall began to fill with life as trainers and their Pokémon entered, chatting animatedly and glancing around at the competition. The energy in the room shifted, anticipation building as the contest drew nearer.

Joy exchanged a glance with Chansey, who gave her an encouraging nod before scurrying off to assist with last-minute preparations. Joy took a deep breath, letting the excitement of the moment wash over her. Today wasn’t just another contest—it was a chance to witness the bonds between trainers and their Pokémon, to celebrate their growth and creativity.

As the first notes of the opening music played and the lights dimmed, Joy smiled to herself. This was going to be a day to remember.

Nurse Joy settled into her seat at the judge’s panel, smoothing the hem of her pristine white apron. Her Chansey was positioned just behind her, clutching its egg as if it were part of the team. The Contest Hall had transformed from the peaceful, empty space of the morning into a vibrant, buzzing arena. Rows of spectators filled the seats, their excited chatter echoing through the high-ceilinged hall. Bright spotlights illuminated the stage, where Lillian, the ever-energetic presenter, was already commanding everyone’s attention.

“Ladies and gentlemen!” Lillian’s voice boomed through the microphone, amplified and carried throughout the hall. “Welcome to the Vermilion City Pokémon Contest! Are you ready to see some amazing Pokémon displays of skill, creativity, and flair?”

The crowd erupted in cheers, clapping and hollering as Lillian grinned and gestured toward the stage with a sweeping motion. Joy couldn’t help but smile. Lillian had a knack for setting the tone, her charisma shining as brightly as the sequins on her electric-blue dress.

“She really knows how to fire up a crowd,” Joy remarked softly, leaning toward Mr. Contesta.

“She’s a natural,” he agreed with a nod, his distinguished demeanor unshaken despite the thunderous applause. “A true professional in every sense.”

Mr. Sukizo, seated to Joy’s left, chimed in with his signature phrase: “Remarkable!”

Joy exchanged a knowing look with Contesta, stifling a laugh. Sukizo’s enthusiasm was contagious, even if his commentary was... limited.

As the crowd settled down, Lillian continued. “Today, our trainers will compete to dazzle you with their Pokémon’s abilities and creativity. They’ll show us what makes their bonds unique! Let’s hear it one more time for all our amazing participants!”

The crowd’s applause returned, accompanied by scattered whistles and cheers. Joy adjusted her notes, glancing at the clipboard in front of her. The first trainer’s name was announced, and the contest officially began.

One by one, trainers took the stage, their Pokémon leaping out of their Poké Balls in dazzling displays of light and color. A young boy stepped forward with a Butterfree that used Stun Spore to form a shimmering golden mist around itself, following it up with a whirlwind that scattered the sparkling spores across the stage. Joy nodded appreciatively as she scribbled notes on her clipboard.

“Great use of the environment,” she whispered to Mr. Contesta. “But it could have used a little more control. The spores dispersed too widely.”

“I agree,” Contesta replied in a hushed tone. “A commendable effort, though.”

“Remarkable!” Sukizo added, as Joy smiled indulgently.

Another trainer followed, this time with a graceful Dewgong that slid across the stage on a sheet of its own ice, its Aqua Jet creating a cascading water display behind it. Joy’s pen moved quickly, jotting down comments about the fluidity and creativity of the appeal.

“That Aqua Jet was a nice touch,” she murmured. “But it could have been timed better. The movement felt slightly rushed.”

As the appeals continued, the judges whispered among themselves between rounds, sharing observations and debating scores. A Pachirisu zipped across the stage, scattering sparks of electricity in a precise, rhythmic pattern that resembled a light show. A Roselia twirled gracefully, scattering petals with Magical Leaf in an intricate design that looked like blooming flowers.

Joy’s clipboard quickly filled with notes. Each Pokémon brought something unique, whether it was power, elegance, or sheer creativity. Some trainers relied on flashy moves, while others focused on storytelling and thematic consistency.

“Each one brings their own flavor,” Joy whispered to Contesta, who nodded in agreement.

“The variety is what makes these contests so special,” he replied, his tone reflective. “No two appeals are ever the same.”

Lillian, meanwhile, kept the audience engaged between performances, her commentary lively and humorous. “That Pachirisu just lit up the stage—literally! Somebody call the electrician!” she quipped, earning laughter from the crowd.

As the appeals continued, Joy found herself drawn to the energy and passion of the trainers. Though some appeals were more polished than others, every performance reflected the bond between trainer and Pokémon.

“Remarkable,” Sukizo said again after a particularly well-executed appeal by a Ninetales that used Will-O-Wisp to create a floating ring of fire.

“Yes, that was remarkable,” Joy agreed, her voice soft but sincere. “The control over those flames was impressive.”

The contest moved at a steady pace, with each new performance bringing fresh excitement. Joy glanced toward the stage, her smile never fading. This was why she loved contests—the creativity, the connection, and the sheer joy that filled the air. Today’s participants had already set a high bar, and she couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the day would bring.

The sudden explosion of smoke on stage silenced the bustling contest hall in an instant. Gasps rippled through the audience, their eyes wide as the haze cleared to reveal Ashley, striking an impressive pose in a sleek purple ninja outfit. Gone was her usual fuchsia kimono; instead, she was clad in flowing, lightweight fabric that shimmered subtly under the contest lights, her every movement whisper-quiet and deliberate. Around her neck, like a living scarf, Apollo coiled snugly, his radiant blue scales catching the light.

The crowd collectively leaned forward, murmurs of awe breaking out at the sight of a Dratini. Joy couldn't help but smile as she caught snippets of astonished whispers: "A real Dratini? I’ve never seen one in person!" and "Isn’t it supposed to be one of the rarest Pokémon? They call it the Mirage Pokémon!"

Joy’s jaw dropped slightly, her usually composed demeanor faltering. The stage entrance was several feet away, yet Ashley had appeared in the very center as if by magic. There’s no way… she thought, her mind racing. But she shook her head, a knowing smile creeping onto her face. “It’s all a ninja trick,” she murmured to herself. Ashley really knows how to work the crowd.

Lillian, ever the professional, recovered first. “Well, folks, it looks like we’ve just been transported to a ninja battlefield! Let’s see what Ashley and her Dratini, Apollo, have in store for us!” Her voice carried excitement, setting the stage for the dramatic performance.

Ashley wasted no time. With a swift motion, she pulled out a handful of silver shurikens from a pouch at her side. The metallic edges gleamed menacingly as she flung them forward in rapid succession. Apollo reacted immediately, leaping gracefully from her neck and twisting mid-air to intercept the projectiles with his glowing Iron Tail. The clash of steel against steel rang through the hall, sharp and rhythmic, as the audience gasped and clapped at the display of precision and trust.

“Amazing!” Joy whispered, leaning slightly forward. She watched as Ashley darted to the side, her kunai flashing in her hand. With a flick of her wrist, she deflected the shurikens that Apollo parried back toward her. The two moved in perfect harmony, their exchanges so seamless it was hard to believe this was a match between a human and a Pokémon.

Apollo’s movements were quick and elegant, his serpentine body weaving through the air as he executed precise, whip-like strikes with his tail. Ashley mirrored his energy, leaping and spinning, her kunai catching the shurikens with deft, almost effortless movements. It was a dance of strategy and synchronicity, the shurikens spinning between them like they were locked in a real ninja battle.

The crowd was entranced, their cheers growing louder with every exchange. Then, as if on cue, Apollo coiled tightly and unleashed a powerful Twister. The gale howled as the shurikens were caught in the swirling winds, spinning like a metallic storm within the draconic vortex. The audience gasped as the shimmering hurricane dominated the stage, the lights reflecting off the whirling projectiles to create a mesmerizing, kaleidoscopic effect.

Ashley wasn’t done yet. She leaped backward, landing in a crouch as she called out, “Now, Apollo—Fire Blast!”

Apollo’s small mouth opened wide, and from deep within, a blazing inferno erupted. The iconic kanji-shaped flames roared into the Twister, the fire merging with the wind in a dazzling display of raw power and artistry. The shurikens, still spinning within the Twister, became streaks of molten light, raining down in fiery arcs as the hurricane dispersed. Sparks danced across the stage, reflecting brilliantly off the polished floor. It was a spectacle of fire and wind, danger and beauty, perfectly balanced.

The audience erupted into applause, their cheers deafening as the final embers faded. Joy clapped enthusiastically, her face alight with wonder.

“Now that was remarkable,” Mr. Sukizo said, his expression unusually animated.

Mr. Contesta nodded approvingly, scribbling on his clipboard. “A flawless blend of precision, power, and presentation. She’s set a new standard for creativity.”

Lillian, her voice brimming with excitement, took over as the cheers continued. “Give it up for Ashley and Apollo! I don’t know about you, but that was one of the most dynamic and thrilling appeals we’ve seen today! A ninja and her Mirage Pokémon—what a duo!”

Ashley stood at center stage, slightly out of breath but grinning from ear to ear. Apollo slithered back to her, his body curling protectively around her arm. She gave him an affectionate rub under the chin, earning a soft coo in return. The two bowed in unison, the crowd roaring their approval.

But just as the applause reached its peak, Ashley reached into her pouch and threw down yet another smoke bomb. The explosion of smoke enveloped the stage, and when it cleared moments later, she and Apollo were gone.

The audience erupted into even louder cheers, amazed by the sudden disappearance. Lillian, barely containing her laughter, gestured toward the empty stage. “Ladies and gentlemen, let’s hear it one more time for the incredible Ashley and her Mirage Pokémon, Apollo!”

Joy clapped along with the crowd, shaking her head in amused disbelief. “She really outdid herself this time,” she muttered, her admiration growing even stronger.

“That was... exceptional,” Mr. Contesta said, his usual stoic demeanor softened by a smile. He leaned forward, glancing at his notes. “Her use of theatrics didn’t just captivate the crowd—it enhanced Apollo’s elegance and skill. The precision of their synchronization was remarkable.”

Mr. Sukizo nodded, his characteristic phrase slipping out almost reflexively. “Remarkable!” he agreed, his eyes shining as he flipped through his scoring sheet. “The way they combined Twister and Fire Blast to create that flaming cyclone... It was both beautiful and powerful. A true testament to their bond.”

Joy tapped her pen against her clipboard thoughtfully, her lips curling into a proud smile. “You can tell she put a lot of work into that performance. It wasn’t just about showing off Apollo’s strength; it was about telling a story. The ninja theme, the dynamic interactions, the flawless transitions between her actions and Apollo’s—it all worked together seamlessly.”

“And let’s not forget,” she added, leaning in slightly, “how rare it is to see a Dratini. That alone had the audience hooked before she even started.”

The other judges nodded in agreement, jotting down their final scores. Each of them knew the importance of not just talent, but the connection between trainer and Pokémon. Ashley and Apollo exemplified that bond, and it showed in every part of their appeal.

As the appeal round continued, trainer after trainer took the stage, showcasing their own unique Pokémon and skills. A Venomoth performed a dazzling Confusion-Psybeam combo that turned the stage into a kaleidoscope of light, while a Shuppet created a mesmerizing Will-o-Wisp display that danced like ethereal flames. But while many of the appeals were impressive, none seemed to match the creativity and emotional impact of Ashley and Apollo’s performance.

When the final appeal concluded and the scoreboard lit up, murmurs of anticipation filled the contest hall. Joy glanced up at the screen, her heart skipping with excitement as the names began to appear.

There it was—Ashley and Apollo sat proudly at the top of the scoreboard, their performance earning the highest points of the round. Joy couldn’t help but smile, clapping softly as the room buzzed with whispers of admiration for the young trainer.

“She’s really setting the bar high,” Joy remarked to her fellow judges. “The battle round will be interesting. Apollo is graceful, but we’ve yet to see how they handle a high-stakes fight.”

Mr. Contesta chuckled. “If her strategy is anything like her appeal, I think we’re in for a treat.”

Backstage, Ashley leaned against a wall, Apollo perched comfortably on her shoulder, his sleek body coiled like an elegant ribbon. She glanced up at the scoreboard and couldn’t help but grin. “Top of the board, buddy,” she said, nudging Apollo gently with her finger. “We nailed it.”

Apollo let out a soft trill, nuzzling her cheek in response.

Around her, other trainers whispered among themselves, some stealing glances in her direction. A few looked impressed, others a bit nervous. One trainer with a smug-looking Jolteon walked past, giving Ashley a respectful nod. “Nice work out there,” he said, his tone casual but sincere.

Ashley returned the nod with a friendly grin. “Thanks. Good luck in the battle round.”

She turned her attention back to Apollo, her fingers brushing over the scales of his tail. “Alright, buddy. The appeal round’s done, but the real challenge is up next. Ready to show them what we’ve got?”

Apollo’s eyes gleamed with determination, his body tightening in anticipation. Ashley straightened up, adjusting her hat as her grin widened. “Let’s do this.”

The announcement for the battle round echoed through the backstage area, and the trainers began gathering their thoughts and Pokémon. As Ashley stepped toward the doors leading to the battlefield, she glanced down at Apollo. “No pressure or anything,” she teased, “but we’ve got to live up to that score, okay?”

Apollo gave her a playful flick of his tail, and together, they stepped out into the arena, ready to take on whatever came next.

The energy in the Vermilion Contest Hall was electric as the battle rounds began. Joy sat poised in her seat, her professional demeanor masking her growing excitement. She had no doubt that Ashley and Apollo would shine in this phase. The appeal round had already showcased their bond and creativity, and Joy was confident they would carry that same energy into the battles.

From the moment Ashley stepped onto the stage, there was a quiet confidence in her stride. Apollo, coiled beside her, moved with an effortless grace that reflected the trust between trainer and Pokémon. The crowd leaned forward with anticipation, eager to see how this rare Dratini would fare in combat.

Joy watched closely, impressed by how Ashley and Apollo navigated each match. Their strategies were as clever as they were seamless, blending precision and adaptability with a dash of flair. It wasn’t just about winning—it was about captivating the audience, something Ashley seemed to understand instinctively.

“She’s a natural,” Joy murmured to Mr. Contesta as Ashley advanced through the rounds.

"Indeed," he replied, nodding approvingly. “There’s a finesse in her approach that’s rare for someone so early in their journey.”

Apollo and Ashley climbed the ranks steadily, their victories met with increasing cheers from the audience. Joy could see the way Ashley’s confidence grew with each round, her commands becoming sharper and her timing impeccable. Apollo matched her energy, his movements fluid and precise, as if he anticipated her thoughts before she even spoke them.

When the final match concluded, Ashley stood center stage, her chest rising and falling with exhilaration. The applause was deafening as Lillian stepped forward, microphone in hand, to announce the results.

“And the winner of the Vermilion Contest is… Ashley Ketchum!”

The crowd erupted, their cheers echoing through the hall as Ashley accepted the yellow ribbon adorned with its lightning crown emblem. Joy clapped along with the audience, her smile as wide as it had been during the appeal round.

"She earned every bit of that victory," Mr. Sukizo said, his tone full of admiration.

“Remarkable,” Joy replied, echoing his signature word with a playful grin.

From the judges’ box, Joy watched as Ashley held the ribbon high for all to see. Apollo slithered around her shoulders, his scales catching the light as he nuzzled her cheek. It was a picture-perfect moment, one that spoke volumes about the bond between trainer and Pokémon.

Joy leaned back in her chair, her heart full as she joined the standing ovation. She couldn’t wait to see what the future held for Ashley. If this contest was any indication, it was going to be something extraordinary.

Chapter Text

The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the grassy area behind the Vermilion Pokémon Center. Ashley stood with her hands on her hips, her signature hat slightly askew as a breeze ruffled her hair. She watched Proserpina, her Gloom, with an intensity that rivaled any gym leader’s gaze.

“Alright, Proserpina, you know the drill,” Ashley said, pointing to the makeshift targets she had set up using large rocks and sturdy tree stumps. “Let’s start with Magical Leaf and flow straight into Seed Bomb. Keep it smooth—Surge won’t see it coming!”

Proserpina gave a determined hum, her stubby legs bracing against the soft earth. She swayed her leaves, summoning a cluster of glowing, multicolored leaves that hovered in the air. With a sharp flick, they shot forward, spinning and weaving through the air as if alive. Each leaf struck its target dead-on, slicing through the bark of a tree stump with precision. Before the last leaf faded, Proserpina quickly launched Seed Bomb. Glowing green orbs of energy sprouted from her petals, flying toward the same target and exploding into bursts of light and grass. The combined attack left the stump covered in singed vines and a fine layer of pollen.

Ashley grinned, clapping her hands. “Yes! That’s what I’m talking about! Smooth transitions, just like that. Now, let’s add Grassy Terrain to the mix.”

Proserpina nodded, her eyes narrowing as she concentrated. She dug her roots into the soil, and a radiant green energy pulsed outward. The ground around them sprang to life, lush grass and tiny flowers blooming in seconds. Ashley could feel the energy in the air, almost like the terrain itself was charged with power.

“Perfect,” Ashley said, crouching to get a closer look at the results. “See, this is why I picked you for this gym. Electric-types? They’re toast when they’re stuck dealing with all this!” She gestured to the vibrant grass and the scorched target with an exaggerated flourish.

Proserpina puffed out her chest proudly, letting out a satisfied hum.

Ashley stood, hands on her hips, and glanced at her notes scribbled in her PokéNav. “Okay, so here’s the plan: you start with Grassy Terrain. That’ll give you a nice boost while keeping Surge’s Pokémon on edge. Then we hit them with Magical Leaf to keep them guessing—there’s no dodging that one. And when they’re distracted, bam!” She punched the air. “Seed Bomb to finish it off.”

Proserpina gave an enthusiastic nod, swaying her leaves in agreement.

“Exactly,” Ashley said with a grin. “But you gotta keep the pressure up. Surge is a powerhouse, and his Electric-types are fast. That’s why we’ve been drilling this chain attack. You’ve got to keep them on their toes—er, paws, claws, whatever.”

Proserpina waddled toward her trainer, nudging her leg as if to say, I’ve got this.

Ashley crouched and gently patted her head. “I know you do, Proserpina. You’re my ace for this gym. We’re gonna crush this, together.”

From behind them, the sound of footsteps interrupted the moment. Ashley turned to see Nurse Joy walking out to the back area with a tray of water bottles.

“I thought you might need these,” Nurse Joy said with a warm smile, holding out the tray. “Training this hard deserves a break.”

Ashley stood and grabbed a bottle, giving Joy a sheepish smile. “Thanks, Nurse Joy. We’ve been going pretty hard, huh?”

Joy chuckled as she handed Proserpina a smaller dish of water. “It’s clear you’re determined. Surge has his reputation for a reason, but I have no doubt you’ll give him a run for his money.”

Ashley grinned, cracking open her bottle. “Oh, we’re not just giving him a run for his money. We’re taking that badge, no question.”

Proserpina sipped her water with an equally confident hum, her eyes sparkling with determination.

As Ashley took a long drink and wiped her forehead, she glanced at the glowing battlefield they’d created. She could already imagine the thrill of facing Surge, the surge of adrenaline, and the moment the Thunder Badge would be in her hand.

Nurse Joy’s eyes were sparkling with a mix of encouragement and curiosity. “I can tell you’re taking this seriously. That’s good—Lieutenant Surge has a reputation for being one of the toughest Gym Leaders in Kanto.”

Ashley grinned, stretching her arms behind her head. “Oh, I’m ready for him. My team’s been working nonstop, and we’re more than prepared to handle his Electric-types. Proserpina here? She’s got a combo that’s going to turn his battlefield into a blooming nightmare.”

Proserpina let out a proud hum, sitting a little taller as if to say, Darn right, I will!

Nurse Joy chuckled, but then her expression grew thoughtful. “You know,” she began, “if you manage to defeat Surge, there’s more than just a badge waiting for you.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Oh? What else is on the table?”

Joy’s smile widened. “If you impress him during the battle, he might reward you with a Technical Machine. And, more importantly, you’ll earn a ticket to board the S.S. Anne.”

Ashley blinked, momentarily caught off guard. “The S.S. Anne? You mean the S.S. Anne? The luxury cruise ship with the trainer tournament onboard?”

Joy nodded. “Exactly. Trainers from all over the region compete in that tournament, and the prizes are quite enticing.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped, and she jumped to her feet, nearly knocking over her water bottle. “No way. Are you serious? I could be battling on the S.S. Anne?”

Nurse Joy smiled patiently, clearly amused by Ashley’s excitement. “I’m completely serious. But there’s one small catch—you’ll need to defeat Surge by tomorrow. The ship departs this weekend, so there’s no time to waste.”

Ashley groaned dramatically, throwing her head back. “Why is there always a catch?!” She turned to Proserpina, who tilted her head in confusion, then to Nurse Joy again. “So you’re saying I have less than a day to polish everything up, battle Surge, and win? No pressure or anything.”

Joy laughed softly. “I know it’s sudden, but from what I’ve seen of you and your team, you’re more than capable. And, Ashley, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

Ashley let out a deep sigh, running a hand through her hair. “Alright, fine. I’ll do it. We’ve trained hard for this. Besides,” she added, a mischievous smirk curling at her lips, “who wouldn’t want to see me take Surge down and then strut onto the S.S. Anne like a champ?”

Nurse Joy chuckled. “That’s the spirit. Just remember to get plenty of rest tonight—you’ll need all your energy for the battle.”

Ashley nodded, determination sparking in her eyes as she turned to Proserpina. “Alright, girl, break time’s over. Let’s make sure this combo is flawless.”

Proserpina hopped up eagerly, her petals glowing faintly as she prepared for another round of practice. Ashley glanced over her shoulder as Nurse Joy and Chansey made their way back into the Pokémon Center.

“I’ll see you after I crush Surge!” Ashley called after them, her voice brimming with confidence. Nurse Joy waved, her smile full of encouragement.

With a deep breath, Ashley focused her attention back on Proserpina. “Okay, Magical Leaf first, then Seed Bomb—let’s make Vermilion City remember the name Ashley Ketchum!”

After wrapping up her training for the day, Ashley gently returned Proserpina to her Poké Ball, giving it an affectionate tap before slipping it onto her belt. She stretched, her muscles aching from the long day of preparation, and made her way inside the Pokémon Center. The familiar, calming atmosphere greeted her—the soft hum of machines, the gentle chatter of trainers, and the ever-present warmth of Nurse Joy’s kind smile at the front desk.

Once in her room, Ashley wasted no time heading to the bathroom. She turned the shower on, letting the warm steam fill the small space. As the water cascaded over her, she let out a deep sigh, her thoughts swirling. Tomorrow was a big day—not just another badge, but a chance to step aboard the legendary S.S. Anne. She closed her eyes, feeling the tension ease slightly under the soothing spray.

After drying off and slipping into her comfortable pajamas, Ashley flopped onto her bed, grabbing her PokéNav. She planned to check a few messages and call it a night, but just as she started scrolling, the device lit up with an incoming call.

“Koga?” Ashley murmured, her brow furrowing in surprise. Of all her mentors, she had the most communication interactions with Lorelei and Erika, occasionally exchanging updates with Blaine and Koga. A call from the Poison-type specialist was unexpected.

Intrigued, she swiped to answer, and Koga’s stern but familiar face appeared on the screen. His backdrop was dimly lit, with a faint glow from the candles Ashley remembered from the Fuchsia Gym.

“Good evening, Ashley,” Koga greeted, his tone formal but laced with a faint hint of amusement. “Word of your contest victory has traveled quickly.”

Ashley’s lips quirked into a grin. “Word travels fast in the ninja world, huh? Thanks, Koga. It means a lot. Honestly, I was just trying to make Apollo shine—he’s the real star.”

Koga’s expression softened, his usual stoicism giving way to a small smile. “Your kunai technique has improved as well. I noticed how seamlessly you incorporated it into your appeal. And the smoke bombs… Well played. Very well played.”

Ashley laughed, scratching the back of her head sheepishly. “I had to put all that training to good use somehow, right? Though I’m still not great at that whole disappearing without tripping over my own feet thing.”

“Practice will remedy that,” Koga said, his voice calm but encouraging. Then, with a faintly teasing tone, he added, “Though it appears you managed to avoid embarrassing yourself this time.”

Ashley rolled her eyes playfully. “Gee, thanks for the vote of confidence.”

The two shared a brief chuckle before Koga’s expression shifted, his brows raising slightly. “And tomorrow, what is your plan?”

“I face Surge,” Ashley nodded, her grin fading into something more determined. “I’m going for the badge and that ticket to the S.S. Anne. I’ve been working my team hard, and I know they’re ready, but…” She hesitated, running her fingers through her damp hair.

Koga tilted his head slightly, his gaze sharp. “You seem unsettled. Do you feel unprepared?”

Ashley shook her head quickly. “No, it’s not that. My team is solid—we’ve trained nonstop, and they’re in top shape. It’s just…” She trailed off, searching for the right words. “I don’t like being rushed. I’ve always preferred taking my time in cities, enjoying the sights, meeting people, and really soaking it all in. But now, because of the timing, I have to cram everything into one week. It feels like I’m missing something, you know?”

Koga nodded slowly, his eyes narrowing in thought. “Ah, I see. You value the journey as much as the destination. It is a commendable trait, one that will serve you well. However,” he added, his voice firm but not unkind, “there are times when adaptability is required. As a trainer and a ninja, you must learn to seize opportunities when they arise, even if they disrupt your preferred rhythm.”

Ashley let out a small sigh, leaning back against her pillows. “Yeah, I get that. It’s just frustrating sometimes. But you’re right—I can’t let this chance slip by. I’ll make it work.”

“You will,” Koga said confidently. “You have already proven your resourcefulness and dedication. Tomorrow is simply another step on your path. Remember, every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger.”

Ashley smiled, feeling a little lighter. “Thanks, Koga. That actually helps. I’ll make you proud.”

“I have no doubt,” Koga replied, his faint smile returning. “Now, get some rest. A sharp mind and steady hand are just as important as a strong team.”

“Will do. Goodnight, Koga.”

“Goodnight, Ashley.”

As the call ended, Ashley set her PokéNav on the nightstand and stretched out on the bed. Her conversation with Koga had eased some of the tension she hadn’t even realized she was carrying. Tomorrow was going to be big, but she felt ready.

With a final glance at the Poké Balls lined up neatly beside her, she whispered, “We’ve got this,” before turning off the light and drifting into a peaceful sleep.

The following morning, sunlight streamed through the curtains of Ashley’s room at the Pokémon Center, casting a warm glow that matched the excitement bubbling inside her. She stretched with a grin, her thoughts buzzing with the day’s challenge. Lt. Surge’s gym was waiting, and she was more than ready to tackle it.

After a quick shower, Ashley decided to switch things up for her look. “Let’s go with something different today,” she mused, parting her long black hair into two neat braids that framed her face. She checked herself in the mirror, nodding in satisfaction. “Perfect. Time to take on Vermilion’s big bad leader.”

As she made her way downstairs, the Pokémon Center was its usual hub of activity. Trainers gathered in clusters, exchanging stories and strategies. Nurse Joy, standing behind the counter, spotted Ashley and immediately waved her over.

“Good luck today, Ashley!” Joy said brightly, her Chansey giving a cheerful coo beside her. Then, with a flash of fire in her eyes that didn’t quite match her sweet demeanor, Joy added, “Make sure you teach Lt. Surge a lesson, okay? He’s been a little too smug lately.”

Ashley blinked, taken aback. “Uh, thanks? But... are we talking about the same guy? Big, loud, likes to call people ‘baby’?”

Nurse Joy nodded firmly, crossing her arms. “Oh, we’re definitely talking about the same person. Surge needs to be reminded that not every trainer’s going to run out of his gym in tears.” She gestured subtly toward the door, where a young trainer was leaving, visibly sniffling and clutching his Poké Balls.

“Noted,” Ashley said with a nervous chuckle. “I’ll, uh, see what I can do.”

“Kick his ass,” Nurse Joy added sweetly, and Ashley decided it was time to leave before Joy’s cheerfulness became any more intimidating. “Oh, and tell him I send my sweetest regards.”

Stepping out into the crisp morning air, Ashley was immediately greeted by the sight of Vermilion City buzzing with activity. The sea breeze carried the faint cry of Wingull overhead, and the distant hum of ships in the harbor reminded her just how alive this port city was. She walked briskly toward the gym, her confidence high—until she turned the corner and saw the line.

Ashley froze, staring at the crowd of trainers stretching down the block. “You’ve gotta be kidding me,” she muttered, her excitement deflating like a popped balloon. “What is this, a concert?”

She sighed and joined the line, shuffling forward as the queue inched along. With little else to do, Ashley pulled out her PokéNav, but before she could dive into her messages, her attention was drawn to the trainers leaving the gym.

The first one stumbled out, holding a fainted Pikachu in his arms. His expression was a mix of frustration and despair as he mumbled something about “those electric traps.” Behind him, another trainer emerged, shaking her head and muttering about “that Raichu’s Thunderbolt.” One by one, trainers left the gym, their Pokémon battered and their spirits crushed.

“What in the Distortion World is going on in there?” Ashley muttered under her breath, craning her neck to get a better look at the gym’s imposing entrance. The massive double doors, emblazoned with lightning bolt designs, loomed ominously at the end of the line.

Her mind raced as she watched more trainers trickle out, some wiping their eyes, others cradling their injured Pokémon protectively. Lt. Surge wasn’t just handing out losses—he was practically breaking spirits. Ashley’s brows furrowed as she tried to piece it together. Was this just his strategy, or was there something else going on?

The line moved again, and Ashley found herself closer to the entrance. The tension in the air was palpable, the kind of electric buzz that could only come from a gym specializing in Electric-types. She took a deep breath and adjusted her hat, determination flickering in her eyes.

“Let’s see what you’ve got, Lt. Surge,” she whispered, her voice steady but laced with anticipation.

Ashley finally stepped to the front of the line, a mix of relief and anticipation washing over her. Two towering men, their muscles bulging under military-style uniforms, stood at the entrance. Their stern expressions softened slightly as they gave her a once-over.

“Here to challenge the boss?” one of them asked, his voice gruff but professional.

Ashley nodded, adjusting her hat with a confident grin. “You know it.”

“Alright, you’re in,” the second man said, pushing the heavy door open. The faint hum of electricity buzzed from somewhere inside, a subtle reminder of what kind of battle awaited her.

Ashley stepped through the doors, half expecting some elaborate obstacle course—after all, many of the gyms she’d been to so far had been more like puzzles than straightforward battlefields. But what greeted her inside was startlingly simple: a massive arena, the standard white lines marking the battlefield clearly in the center. No riddles to solve, no ninja mazes, no sprawling gardens. Just a battleground.

“Finally,” Ashley muttered under her breath, the simplicity of the setup feeling like a breath of fresh air. After the chaos of Saffron Gym, the straightforward nature of this challenge was a welcome change.

At the far end of the arena stood Lt. Surge, a mountain of a man with broad shoulders and an imposing stance. His blonde buzz cut and sunglasses gave him the look of someone who’d just walked off a military base, and the way he carried himself screamed authority. His sleeveless shirt showcased arms that looked like they could bend steel beams, and the confident smirk on his face made it clear he was no stranger to victory.

“Well, well,” Surge called out, his voice booming across the gym. “What do we have here? Another bright-eyed rookie lookin’ for a quick win? Or…” His eyes narrowed slightly, his smirk widening. “...are you here for that ticket to the S.S. Anne?”

Ashley placed her hands on her hips, tilting her head as she met his gaze. “The ticket would be a nice bonus,” she admitted with a shrug. “But I’m here for the badge. That’s what really matters.”

Surge let out a booming laugh, the sound echoing through the empty gym. “I like your style, kid! Most trainers come in here drooling over that ticket like it’s a golden egg. But you? You’ve got your eyes on the real prize.” He pointed a thumb at his chest. “Maybe this’ll actually be worth my time.”

Ashley smirked. “Oh, it will be.”

Surge leaned forward slightly, studying her. “Alright, you’ve got guts, I’ll give you that. How many badges you got so far?”

“Four,” Ashley said, holding up four fingers with a small, confident smile.

The whistle that came from Surge was low and impressed. “Four, huh? Not bad. Most of the trainers I get in here barely scrape by with two or three. Someone with four... that’s eye-catching.”

Ashley chuckled, adjusting the strap of her bag. “What can I say? I’ve been doing things a little out of order.”

Surge crossed his arms, his smirk growing wider. “That’s a good way to shake things up. Keeps people on their toes. Alright, here’s how this is gonna go down. Four Pokémon each, no substitutions allowed. You’re stuck with what you send out, and so am I. You good with that?”

Ashley nodded, her grin never wavering. “Sounds perfect.”

Surge jabbed a thumb toward the battlefield. “Good. Get your team ready, rookie. Let’s see if you’ve got what it takes to earn that badge—and maybe impress me while you’re at it.”

As Ashley walked to her designated side of the battlefield, her heart thudded in her chest, not from nerves but from excitement. She could already feel the energy in the air, the faint buzz of electricity that seemed to charge the very ground beneath her feet.

Ashley and Lt. Surge locked eyes from opposite sides. The referee stood between them, his voice booming across the gym. “This is an official Vermilion City Gym Battle! Both trainers will use four Pokémon, no substitutions allowed. Let the battle begin!”

Surge grinned, already gripping the Poké Ball in his hand. “Alright, rookie. Let’s see what you’ve got.” He tossed his ball high into the air. “Magnemite, report for duty!”

In a flash of light, the hovering, spherical Magnemite materialized, its magnet arms sparking with electric energy. The steel body gleamed under the bright gym lights as it rotated slowly, its single eye locked onto Ashley.

Ashley smirked, twirling a Poké Ball between her fingers before releasing it. “Proserpina, time to shine!”

Proserpina appeared in a burst of light, her stubby legs planting firmly on the battlefield as her vibrant petals swayed. The Gloom let out a low, determined hum, her eyes narrowing as she focused on her opponent.

Surge let out a short laugh. “A Gloom, huh? Not exactly what I’d call heavy artillery.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. “We’ll see about that. Proserpina, start us off with a Sunny Day-Growth combo!”

Proserpina raised her leafy arms, summoning a golden orb of light that shot into the sky. The battlefield was instantly bathed in a warm, radiant glow, the artificial lighting of the gym paling in comparison. The sunlight intensified, glinting off Magnemite’s steel surface and making Proserpina’s petals shimmer. Especially, as Growth kicked in.

Surge nodded, clearly unimpressed. “Alright, Magnemite, let’s not waste time. Flash Cannon, now!”

Magnemite spun in midair, its magnet arms glowing as it charged up a brilliant silver beam. The energy swirled and coalesced before firing straight at Proserpina with a sharp hiss.

“Substitute!” Ashley called, her voice steady.

At the last second, Proserpina glowed faintly and a decoy appeared in her place, taking the full brunt of the Flash Cannon. The substitute exploded into a puff of shimmering light, and the real Gloom emerged from beneath Magnemite, her petals vibrating with readiness.

“Nice dodge, but it won’t last!” Surge barked. “Magnemite, reposition!”

But Ashley was already a step ahead. “Acid, now!”

Proserpina opened her petals wide, releasing a spray of purplish liquid that coated Magnemite’s lower body. The Steel-type didn’t flinch, its metallic exterior glinting as the attack slid off harmlessly. Surge’s laugh echoed across the gym.

“You serious? Poison doesn’t do squat to Steel-types, kid! You’re wasting your moves.”

Ashley smirked, her hands resting casually on her hips. “Oh, I know. But Sleep Powder sure does.”

“What?” Surge’s confident grin faltered as Magnemite began to wobble midair. Its single eye blinked erratically before it drooped, its magnet arms sagging as the Pokémon clunked unceremoniously to the ground. Soft snores escaped the Magnemite as it lay still.

“Sleep Powder… through Acid?” Surge muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Ashley couldn’t resist the grin spreading across her face. “What’s the matter, Lieutenant? Didn’t see that one coming? Guess all that military training doesn’t leave much room for creativity.”

Surge’s jaw tightened, but before he could retort, Ashley raised her arm sharply. “Proserpina, Magical Leaf! Finish it!”

Proserpina swayed her petals before releasing a flurry of glowing leaves. They sliced through the air with unerring precision, their mystical energy ensuring every single one hit its target. The barrage bombarded Magnemite, the Steel-type letting out a low metallic groan before collapsing completely.

The referee stepped forward, raising a flag in Ashley’s direction. “Magnemite is unable to battle! Gloom is the winner!”

Ashley pumped her fist in the air, her face lighting up. “Great job, Proserpina!” The Gloom trotted back toward her trainer, her expression calm but proud as Ashley knelt to give her a high-five.

Lt. Surge clicked the button on his Poké Ball, recalling the fainted Magnemite in a flash of red light. He adjusted his aviator sunglasses, giving Ashley a nod that was equal parts impressed and grudgingly respectful. “Not bad, kid. I’ll give you this—you’re sneaky. That’s not something I see every day.”

Ashley tilted her head, crossing her arms as she grinned. “Sneaky? I call it strategy. You underestimated Proserpina just because she’s a Gloom.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Surge waved his hand dismissively, though the corner of his mouth twitched into a smirk. “Magnemite is always a good way to start the battles, as it got the advantage since it can levitate outta reach of most of their attacks. But you played it smart. You knew I’d let my guard down against poison moves.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. “Who, me? No idea what you’re talking about.”

Surge let out a booming laugh, shaking his head. “Alright, kid, enough games. Let’s see how you handle this!” With a flick of his wrist, he tossed his second Poké Ball high into the air. “Electabuzz, hit the field!”

The ball burst open, releasing a surge of yellow light that materialized into a hulking Electabuzz. Its fur bristled with static electricity, and it pounded its fists together, sparks flying as it let out a low growl. Its piercing eyes locked onto Proserpina, sizing her up.

Ashley’s grin didn’t waver, though her eyes flicked to Proserpina. “You ready for this, girl?” The Gloom nodded, her petals vibrating slightly as if to say, Always.

Surge jabbed a finger forward. “Electabuzz, get in close! Quick Attack!”

Electabuzz moved like lightning, its bulky frame a blur as it rushed across the battlefield toward Proserpina. Ashley’s heart skipped a beat at the sudden burst of speed, but she recovered quickly. “Proserpina, go into the chain attack—NOW!”

Proserpina’s eyes glowed as she summoned the power of the sun-drenched battlefield. The lingering effects of Sunny Day  and Growth made her movements sharper, faster. Before Electabuzz could land its attack, Proserpina’s petals shimmered, releasing a flurry of glowing leaves. Magical Leaf.

The homing projectiles hit their mark, causing Electabuzz to stagger but not stop. “Keep going, Electabuzz! Don’t let up!” Surge barked.

Ashley was already two steps ahead. “Seed Bomb, follow up!”

The Gloom stomped her stubby legs, releasing a cluster of glowing green seeds that arced through the air before landing near Electabuzz. The seeds exploded on impact, throwing up a burst of grass and light. Electabuzz stumbled, sparks flying off its fur as it struggled to regain its footing.

“Finish it, Proserpina!” Ashley shouted, her voice steady with determination. “Grassy Terrain—let’s wrap this up!”

The battlefield shifted as emerald grass sprouted rapidly, overtaking the gym’s floor. The shimmering grass pulsed with energy, surging toward Proserpina and strengthening her final attack. The Gloom’s petals glowed with a radiant green light as the effects of Growth and Sunny Day pushed her power to its peak.

“Electabuzz, Thunderbolt, now!” Surge roared, but his Pokémon couldn’t react in time.

Proserpina unleashed a blinding burst of light, the combined power of her chain attack overwhelming the battlefield. The cascading energy from Magical Leaf, Seed Bomb, and Grassy Terrain collided with Electabuzz in a brilliant explosion of green and gold. When the light faded, Electabuzz was on the ground, its body sparking faintly as it lay motionless.

The referee raised a flag toward Ashley’s side. “Electabuzz is unable to battle! Gloom is the winner!”

Ashley pumped her fist in the air, a wide grin spreading across her face. “That’s how it’s done, Proserpina!” The Gloom waddled back toward her, looking as serene as ever despite her impressive performance. Ashley knelt to pat her on the head, earning a pleased hum in response.

Lt. Surge’s hearty laughter filled the gym as he recalled Electabuzz and then clipped his Poké Ball back onto his belt. He gestured toward Proserpina, who was waddling back to the battlefield, her petals glowing faintly from the residual energy of her last attack. “That’s one powerful flower, kid! Gloom’s got more fight in her than most heavyweight Pokémon I’ve faced.”

Ashley grinned. “She’s not just a flower—she’s a tank. Right, Proserpina?” The Gloom hummed in agreement, her stubby arms raising slightly in victory. “Take a break, girl. You earned it.”

Surge’s smirk widened as he plucked another Poké Ball from his belt. “Don’t get too comfy, rookie. Let’s see how you handle this one. Go, Voltorb!”

With a flick of his wrist, Surge tossed the ball high into the air. It burst open, releasing a Voltorb that hit the gym floor with a sharp crackle of electricity. The spherical Pokémon rolled slightly on impact, its unblinking eyes locking onto Ashley with unnerving precision. Sparks danced across its surface, giving off an ominous energy that made Ashley shift her weight uneasily.

“Alright, Voltorb,” Surge barked, clapping his hands together. “Rollout, let’s go!”

The electric Pokémon tucked itself in tighter and shot forward like a spinning top, the speed and force of its movement kicking up a small gust. Ashley barely had time to react before it was closing the distance.

“Whoa—Proserpina, get out of there!” she shouted, her voice edged with panic.

But the battlefield was small, and Voltorb was fast—much faster than Proserpina could ever hope to be. Within seconds, it barreled into her with a thunderous impact. Proserpina let out a startled cry as she tumbled backward, her body visibly shaken. Ashley clenched her fists, her mind racing for a counter.

“Okay, we’re not out yet!” she called. “Hang in there, Proserpina! Let’s—”

“Explosion,” Surge interrupted, his voice calm and deliberate.

Ashley’s heart stopped. “Wait—what?!”

Voltorb came to an abrupt halt, its sparking surface intensifying into a blinding light. Ashley’s eyes widened as realization dawned. “Proserpina, MOVE!” she screamed, but it was too late.

The explosion detonated with a deafening roar, a fiery shockwave engulfing the battlefield in an instant. Ashley instinctively shielded her face with her arms, stumbling back from the force. When the smoke cleared, both Proserpina and Voltorb were down, fainted on the gym floor.

Ashley’s chest heaved as she recalled Proserpina, her hand trembling slightly. “You… you used Explosion?” Her voice wavered, but her eyes burned with a mix of disbelief and frustration. “Are you serious?”

Surge walked forward a few steps, his expression softening when he noticed Ashley’s hands shaking as she clipped Proserpina’s ball back onto her belt. “Hey, kid,” he said, his voice less boisterous than usual. “I didn’t mean to rattle you like that.” He paused, scratching the back of his head. “I needed her out of the fight. No hard feelings, right?”

Ashley exhaled slowly, forcing herself to steady her breathing. “No… I get it,” she said finally, though her voice was still tight. Taking deep breaths and trying to remind herself that she was not in Saffron and Surge was not Sabrina. “Proserpina was a huge advantage against your team. You had to make a call.”

Surge nodded, his expression serious. “Exactly. But hey, you handled it like a champ. A lot of trainers lose their nerve after a move like that.”

Ashley managed a small smile, her hand brushing over the remaining Poké Balls on her belt. “Well, I’m not most trainers. I’ve still got a few more tricks up my sleeve.”

Surge’s grin returned as he reached for his next Pokémon. “That’s the spirit, kid! Let’s keep this battle rolling.”

Ashley adjusted her hat, determination sparking in her eyes. “You better believe it.”

Ashley clenched her jaw as she took a moment to breathe, centering herself. The explosion had been brutal, but she couldn’t afford to dwell on it. With a determined flourish, she plucked another Poké Ball from her belt and grinned at Surge across the battlefield.

“Alright, Surge,” she called, her voice steady. “Let’s see how your next Pokémon handles this one.”

Surge chuckled, spinning his own Poké Ball in his hand before tossing it high into the air. “You’re gonna love this,” he said. “Raichu, let’s show her what real strength looks like!”

The ball burst open with a crackle of lightning, and a sleek, muscular Raichu landed on the battlefield with a confident stance. Its cheeks sparked with electric energy, and it flicked its long tail in anticipation. Ashley couldn’t help but notice the aura of raw power it exuded. It was no ordinary Raichu—this one was trained to dominate.

Ashley smirked, although she felt a flicker of apprehension. She tossed her own ball, releasing Vulcan onto the field in a burst of light. Her Growlithe landed gracefully, his orange fur gleaming and his stance poised for battle. He let out a deep, fiery bark, the flames on his back flickering brighter.

Surge’s grin widened. “A Growlithe, huh? Not bad, but let me tell you something, kid. Evolution is key. Strength. Power. That’s what my gym’s all about.” He gestured to Raichu. “This guy evolved just last week, and he’s been crushing every trainer who walks through that door. You’re not gonna be any different.”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, her arms crossing over her chest. “Oh, really? Well, I’m not here to argue about evolution or strength. I’m here to win. Let’s see if your Raichu can handle Vulcan.”

Surge snorted. “Suit yourself, rookie. Raichu, Thunderbolt!”

The electric rodent’s cheeks glowed as it charged up, releasing a jagged bolt of lightning that streaked toward Vulcan. Ashley’s eyes widened.

“Dodge it, Vulcan!”

Vulcan blurred into motion, narrowly avoiding the bolt as he sped across the battlefield. He looped around, closing the distance between himself and Raichu with remarkable agility.

“Now, Iron Tail!” Ashley commanded.

Vulcan’s tail glowed with a metallic sheen as he lunged forward, aiming for Raichu’s side. But Raichu smirked, its movements impossibly fast.

“Double Team!” Surge barked.

Raichu’s image split into multiple shimmering clones, and Vulcan’s tail swung through a mirage, missing its mark. Ashley grimaced as the real Raichu darted to the side, its speed surpassing anything Vulcan could match. For the first time, they were meeting someone who was faster than Vulcan and they did not know what to do with this.

“Let’s turn up the heat!” Ashley yelled. “Fire Spin!”

Vulcan growled, igniting into a spinning inferno as he charged toward the Raichu clones. The fire dissipated the illusions, but Raichu darted in behind Vulcan’s fiery assault, its speed unparalleled.

“Volt Tackle!” Surge roared.

Raichu’s entire body crackled with electricity as it surged forward, slamming into Vulcan with brutal force. The collision sent Vulcan skidding across the battlefield, his fur singed and sparks dancing across his body. Ashley gasped, her hands balling into fists.

“Come on, Vulcan, get up!” she called, her voice laced with urgency.

Vulcan staggered to his feet, his body trembling slightly from the blow. But before he could recover fully, Raichu was already closing in.

“Finish it, Raichu! Thunder Wave!” Surge ordered.

Raichu released a wave of paralyzing energy, and Vulcan froze in place, his body locked in the grip of the electric attack. Ashley’s heart sank as she saw the struggle in Vulcan’s eyes. He let out a defiant bark, but his muscles wouldn’t obey.

“Volt Tackle, one more time!” Surge shouted.

Raichu charged again, a streak of lightning that collided with Vulcan in a flash of electric fury. When the light faded, Vulcan lay unconscious on the ground. Ashley’s shoulders slumped as she pulled out his Poké Ball.

“You did great, Vulcan,” she murmured, recalling him with a soft smile. “Rest up.”

Across the battlefield, Surge crossed his arms, a smug grin plastered on his face. “Told you, kid. Evolution and power. That’s what it takes.”

Ashley’s eyes narrowed as she clipped Vulcan’s ball back onto her belt. She still did not agree with Surge’s words, but she could admit that his Pokémon is a strong one. “Maybe, but this battle’s not over yet. I’ve got more than power on my side.”

Surge laughed. “I like your spirit, rookie! Bring out your next one. Let’s see if it’s got what it takes!”

Ashley hesitated for a fraction of a second as she considered her options. Her hand hovered over her belt of Poké Balls, her mind racing through the potential matchups. Neptune was out—too risky against an Electric-type like Raichu. Mercury and Chione were too green for a battle of this caliber, and Apollo had already shone in the contest. Venus, while healed, wasn’t quite ready for this level of intensity.

That left one option.

Her fingers closed around Mars’ Poké Ball, and with a confident flick of her wrist, she released her Charmeleon onto the battlefield. The fire lizard emerged in a blaze of light, his tail flame flaring brightly as he sized up Raichu with a low growl. His yellow eyes glinted with determination, and Ashley couldn’t help but grin. Mars was ready.

“Interesting choice,” Surge said, his grin widening. “Let’s see if your Charmeleon can handle the heat—Raichu, Volt Tackle!”

Raichu didn’t hesitate, its body crackling with electricity as it launched itself like a lightning bolt toward Mars. The power and speed were blinding, and Ashley’s heart skipped a beat. But this time she was ready for this attack and for Raichu’s speed. She raised her voice, sharp and decisive.

“Mars, Fire Spin! Circle it around yourself—now!”

Mars inhaled deeply, and with a ferocious roar, expelled a spiraling vortex of fire that encircled him in a protective ring. The flames danced and roared, their heat palpable even from the sidelines. Raichu’s charge faltered as it approached the fiery barrier, its momentum slowing as the intense heat made it hesitate.

Ashley smirked. “Good, now Iron Tail!”

Mars didn’t need further instruction. His tail shimmered with metallic energy as he leaped forward, breaking through the flames in a dramatic spin. The glowing appendage met Raichu head-on, clashing with its electrified body in a shower of sparks and embers. The battlefield erupted with light, and both Pokémon clashed, their breaths heavy from the impact.

Surge barked out his next command, his voice booming. “Raichu, don’t let up!”

Ashley’s eyes narrowed, reading the situation. “Mars, Brick Break! Close quarters!”

Mars planted his feet and swung his claws upward, glowing with a bright, fighting energy. The move connected squarely with Raichu’s head, through the Volt Tackle, the impact sending the Electric-type stumbling backward, dazed. Ashley seized the moment.

“Sunny Day!” she commanded, her tone brimming with authority.

Mars reared back, lifting his claws toward the sky as a golden orb shot upward. The light in the gym intensified, bathing the battlefield in a warm, golden glow once more. The fire circle around Mars burned brighter, and his tail flame flared to double its size. Ashley could feel the shift in power, and she wasn’t about to waste it.

“Let’s finish this! Fire Blast!”

Mars inhaled deeply, the flames at his core stoked to their maximum under the Sunny Day. He unleashed a massive star-shaped inferno that roared toward Raichu, its edges crackling with white-hot intensity. Surge’s eyes widened as he shouted for Raichu to dodge, but the Electric-type was too slow, still recovering from the Brick Break. The Fire Blast engulfed Raichu, and when the flames dissipated, it lay unconscious on the ground.

The referee raised his flag. “Raichu is unable to battle! The round goes to Charmeleon!”

Ashley let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, her heart racing as she watched Mars strut back to her side. As Surge recalled his fallen Raichu into its Poké Ball, Ashley knelt to high-five Mars. The Charmeleon’s tail flame blazed proudly as he smacked her hand with his claw, a victorious grin plastered across his face.

“You did it, buddy!” Ashley exclaimed, rubbing his head affectionately. “You were amazing out there—especially that last Fire Blast. I think you just set a new personal best!”

Mars puffed out his chest, basking in the praise, though he couldn’t resist a playful snort as he rolled his eyes toward Surge, who was laughing heartily on the other side of the battlefield.

The towering Gym Leader approached with his signature swagger, clapping his hands loudly. “Well, kid, I’ll be honest,” Surge began, his deep voice carrying a mixture of respect and amusement. “You’re the first trainer to actually take me down today. Most of the others didn’t even get past Raichu, let alone that monster Fire Blast your Charmeleon just pulled off.” He stopped in front of her, crossing his muscular arms and nodding approvingly. “You’ve got guts, strategy, and some damn fine Pokémon. Not to mention, the most important thing. Strength.”

Ashley stood up straight, her cheeks flushing with pride. “Thanks, Lt. Surge. That means a lot coming from you. My team worked really hard for this.”

Surge chuckled and reached into his jacket, pulling out a gleaming Thunder Badge and a small case containing the reusable TM for Thunderbolt. “Here you go, kid. You earned these fair and square. Thunder Badge, TM for Thunderbolt, and...” He paused, pulling a crisp envelope from his pocket, “...one ticket to the S.S. Anne. The tournament on board starts soon, so don’t miss the boat.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up as she eagerly took the items, her grin widening as she fanned herself dramatically with the envelope. “Wow, a badge, a TM, and a ticket? Gym challenges really do pay off.” She slipped the envelope into her bag with a wink. “I think I’ll treat my team to something special with the reward money.”

Mars tilted his head, clearly curious about what “something special” might entail. His tail flicked with excitement, but he didn’t have long to ponder as Ashley leaned in conspiratorially. “Before I go celebrating too hard, there’s one last thing,” Surge said, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. “I’ve got a message to deliver.”

Surge raised an eyebrow. “A message?”

At that, Ashley’s face split into a mischievous grin. “Ohhh, that’s right. Nurse Joy sends her regards.”

The moment the words left her mouth, Surge’s face turned so pale it could’ve rivaled Chione’s snowy fur. His confident smirk vanished, replaced with a look of pure dread. “She... she said that?” he stammered, his usually commanding voice suddenly faltering.

Ashley folded her arms, trying—and failing—to suppress her amusement. “Yep. And let me tell you, she looked real serious about it too.”

Surge groaned, dragging a hand down his face. “Aw, man... I was hoping she’d let it slide this time.” He glanced nervously toward the door as if expecting Nurse Joy to burst in at any moment.

Mars, who had been observing the exchange, let out a loud snicker that quickly escalated into a full-on laugh. The Charmeleon fell onto his back, clutching his stomach with his claws as he rolled around, howling with glee.

Chapter Text

As Ashley had a couple of days before the S.S Anne left the docks, she decided to cram in everything she had on her to-do list for Vermilion City. It was a fast pace, but she was not missing the chance to get her shopping and pictures done. At the moment, she is an art gallery that was having an exposition where an artist and his Smeargle were painting live for the public.

Ashley stepped into the art gallery, the gentle hum of conversation and the soft strokes of a paintbrush creating an atmosphere that felt worlds away from the chaos of battles. The polished floors gleamed under the natural light filtering through high windows, casting a serene glow over the vibrant paintings adorning the walls. At the far end of the room, the star attraction—a renowned artist and his Smeargle—was busy creating a new masterpiece in real-time. The Smeargle’s tail moved with surprising finesse, its painterly strokes almost hypnotic as it worked alongside its human partner.

Ashley adjusted her hat and glanced down at Proserpina and Vulcan, who trotted eagerly beside her. Proserpina’s flower emitted a faint, sweet aroma, blending harmoniously with the subtle scent of paint and fresh canvas in the air. Vulcan’s tail wagged excitedly, though his steps were more measured. He was clearly on his best behavior, aware of the quiet reverence of the space.

“Alright, you two,” Ashley said, her tone light but playful. “This is your reward for kicking butt at the gym. Soak it all in. Just, uh... maybe don’t touch anything, okay?”

Proserpina gave a soft trill of acknowledgment, her wide eyes scanning the colorful paintings with genuine curiosity. Vulcan sniffed the air, his nose twitching as he tried to make sense of the strange smells. Ashley chuckled at his perplexed expression and snapped a quick picture with her PokéNav.

“Perfect,” she muttered, grinning as she reviewed the photo. “Mars is gonna feel so left out when he sees this.”

They wandered further into the gallery, pausing occasionally to admire pieces that caught Ashley’s eye. One painting depicted a serene coastal scene, the waves shimmering as though they were alive. Another was an abstract swirl of colors that seemed to shift the longer she looked at it.

Proserpina stopped in front of a particularly striking piece—a vibrant field of flowers rendered in exquisite detail. The Gloom tilted her head, clearly enraptured.

“You like that one?” Ashley asked, crouching beside her Pokémon. She read the small plaque below the painting. “‘Elysian Blooms.’ Fitting.” She reached out to scratch Proserpina under her leaf-like head, earning a pleased hum in return. “Maybe I should get you a little flower crown to match the vibe.”

Vulcan, meanwhile, was inching closer to the live painting demonstration. The Smeargle’s tail flicked with precision, dabbing vibrant blue onto the canvas while the artist added delicate details with a fine brush. A small crowd had gathered to watch, their whispers barely audible over the faint scratch of bristles.

“Vulcan, don’t even think about it,” Ashley warned, her voice low but teasing as she noticed the Growlithe’s curiosity shifting dangerously close to the wet canvas.

Vulcan froze mid-step, giving her a sheepish glance before retreating a few paces. Ashley sighed in mock exasperation. “You’re lucky you’re cute.”

The artist, noticing the interaction, smiled warmly at her. “A well-behaved Growlithe in an art gallery—now there’s something you don’t see every day.”

Ashley straightened, grinning. “He tries. Can’t say the same for my Charmeleon, though. Mars would’ve set the place on fire by now. Not on purpose!” she added quickly when the artist’s eyebrows shot up. “He’s just... high-energy.”

The artist laughed, his Smeargle pausing to glance at Vulcan with what Ashley swore was an approving nod before returning to its work.

After watching the demonstration for a few more minutes, Ashley decided it was time to move on. “Alright, team,” she said, clapping her hands lightly. “One last loop around, and then we’ll grab Mars and find that ice cream I promised.”

Proserpina gave an enthusiastic chirp, while Vulcan barked softly in agreement. As they wandered through the final section of the gallery, Ashley couldn’t resist taking a few more pictures. She captured Proserpina examining another floral piece, her Gloom’s bright petals almost blending into the painted blooms. Vulcan posed (albeit reluctantly) next to a minimalist painting of a roaring Arcanine, his smaller stature making the comparison amusingly stark.

When they finally exited the gallery, Ashley stretched her arms above her head, her hat tipping slightly. The afternoon sun was warm, a stark contrast to the cool, tranquil air inside the gallery.

“Well,” she said, glancing down at her Pokémon, “that was nice, wasn’t it? A little culture before we dive back into the usual chaos.”

Proserpina and Vulcan both seemed content, their energy mellow but happy. Ashley smiled, already imagining Mars’ reaction when she told him about their art excursion.

“Alright, let’s go find that ice cream,” she declared, her voice full of determination. “And maybe something extra for Mars so he doesn’t feel too left out.”

With that, they set off down the bustling streets of Vermilion City, they strolled along the bustling street. Ashley’s nose catching the sweet aroma of waffle cones and sugary treats wafting from the ice cream shop up ahead. The colorful awning over the shop’s entrance seemed to invite her inside with its cheerful stripes, and the window display of decadent sundaes sealed the deal.

"Alright, team," she said, glancing down at Proserpina and Vulcan, who padded happily beside her. "Ice cream time. Let’s treat ourselves."

Inside, the shop was lively but not too crowded. Ashley’s eyes scanned the menu displayed above the counter, a myriad of flavors and combinations making the choice difficult. After a few minutes of debate, she settled on a caramel cone for herself, a vanilla cup for Vulcan, a matcha one for Proserpina, and a towering chocolate sundae for Mars.

"That should make everyone happy," she muttered to herself as she balanced the tray of treats.

She found a cozy spot at a small table outside the shop, where the sun cast a warm glow over the sidewalk. As soon as she set the tray down, Vulcan’s nose twitched, and his eyes lit up at the sight of his vanilla cup. Proserpina waddled over to her matcha cone, her bright petals rustling in excitement.

"Dig in, you two," Ashley encouraged, grinning as Vulcan lapped at his ice cream with enthusiastic swipes of his tongue. Proserpina, ever the composed one, took her time, savoring each bite as if critiquing the delicate flavor.

Ashley leaned back in her chair, the caramel sweetness of her own cone hitting the spot. Watching Vulcan enjoy himself so freely brought her a sense of calm. She’d been worried after his loss to Raichu, but he was clearly unbothered, his tail wagging furiously as he finished his treat.

"You’re really something else, Vulcan," she murmured, reaching down to scratch behind his ears. "No sulking, no moping. Just onto the next thing. I could learn a thing or two from you."

Vulcan barked softly, licking his muzzle clean before nuzzling her hand in gratitude.

With a grin, Ashley reached for Mars’ Poké Ball. "Speaking of someone who deserves a treat... Let’s not keep him waiting."

The red beam materialized into her Charmeleon, who stretched and yawned as he took in his surroundings. His orange eyes landed on the tray, and they widened comically at the sight of the massive chocolate sundae.

"Surprise," Ashley said, laughing at his stunned expression. "You earned it, Mars. Go on!"

Mars didn’t need further encouragement. He dove into the sundae with gusto, shoveling bites of whipped cream and fudge into his mouth like he was trying to devour it before it disappeared. Ashley couldn’t stop laughing as he paused only to let out a satisfied growl before continuing his assault on the dessert.

"Slow down, Mars! It’s not going anywhere!" she teased, though her smile softened at the sight of her fiery teammate enjoying himself so much.

Meanwhile, Vulcan and Proserpina watched their friend’s enthusiasm with varying degrees of amusement. Proserpina gave a soft trill, tilting her head as if questioning Mars’ manners, while Vulcan barked lightly, his version of laughter.

Ashley snapped a quick picture on her PokéNav. "Okay, this one’s going in the album," she said, already imagining the hilarious caption she’d add later.

With her team happily full and relaxed, Ashley licked a smear of caramel off her thumb as her PokéNav buzzed on the table. She tapped the screen to see Erika’s smiling face appear. “Erika!” she greeted, her grin widening. “Hey, I wasn’t expecting a call. What’s up?”

Erika’s serene voice was as calming as ever. “I wanted to congratulate you on your win against Surge. Surge himself sang your praises in the Kanto Gym Leaders chat.”

Ashley froze mid-bite, the spoon halfway to her mouth. “Wait, Surge did that?” Her cheeks turned a faint pink. “Okay, that’s... wow. I wasn’t expecting that. I mean, I know we did well, but Surge doesn’t seem like the complimenting type.”

Erika chuckled softly. “He’s not, but he’s also not stingy with his praise when he sees potential. Koga and Blaine mentioned they already reached out to you?”

Ashley nodded, waving her spoon in the air as she spoke. “Yeah, Koga messaged me about my ninja moves and how I apparently I learned the art of deception.” She snickered at the memory. “And Blaine just sent a volcano emoji with a thumbs-up. Classic Blaine.”

“Classic indeed,” Erika agreed, her tone warm with amusement. Her attention shifted slightly. “And is that Proserpina I, see?”

Ashley blinked, Erika wasn’t being subtle at all. She had turned her PokéNav just enough to capture her Gloom, who was blissfully unaware of the call and happily licking at her matcha ice cream with precise little movements. Her petals shifted slightly with each bite, almost as if she were savoring every moment.

“Actually, since you’re on the line, I wanted to ask about her. Do you think she’s ready to evolve?” Ashley admitted with a sheepish grin, tilting the screen a little more to focus on Proserpina.

Erika’s brows lifted in interest, her expression thoughtful. “Interesting question. I haven’t seen Proserpina up close since our battle. Let me get a better look at her.”

Ashley angled the camera fully, Proserpina still oblivious as she carefully tilted her cup to catch a drip of melting ice cream. Erika smiled, studying the Gloom’s form through the screen.

“She’s grown quite a bit,” Erika noted after a moment. “Her leaves are vibrant, a deep, healthy green. Her stature is larger than I remember as well, which is another indicator. And her posture—she carries herself with more confidence. Yes, I’d say she’s ready.”

Ashley beamed, pride bubbling up in her chest. “That’s what I was thinking! I just didn’t want to rush it. I mean, Mars is my only evolved Pokémon so far, and that happened in the middle of a battle. I’ve never used a stone for evolution before.”

Erika’s voice was soothing, a quiet reassurance. “Evolution through stones is an important moment, but it’s nothing to be anxious about. Proserpina has clearly reached the stage where she’ll benefit from the change. Trust your instincts, Ashley. You’ve done wonderfully with her so far.”

“Thanks, Erika.” Ashley exhaled, her nerves settling. She glanced at Proserpina, who had finished her ice cream and was now wiping her face with a leaf like a proper lady. The sight made Ashley laugh softly.

“Oh, one more thing,” Erika added, her tone teasing now. “If you decide to evolve her, make sure to take plenty of photos. I’d love to see them, and I’m sure Koga would as well. He’s probably just as curious about your progress as I am.”

Ashley chuckled, giving Erika a mock salute. “Consider it done. I’ll make sure her evolution is picture-perfect. Thanks for the advice, Erika. You always know how to calm me down.”

Erika’s smile widened. “It’s what I’m here for. Good luck, Ashley. I look forward to hearing all about your next adventure.”

The call ended with a soft chime, and Ashley leaned back in her chair, holding her PokéNav loosely in her hand. She glanced at Proserpina, who was now sunning herself lazily as if she were on the bench, her petals glowing faintly in the golden light.

“Guess it’s time to dig out that Leaf Stone,” Ashley murmured, a small smile tugging at her lips. The prospect of seeing Proserpina evolve filled her with both excitement and a little trepidation, but Erika’s words echoed in her mind, bolstering her confidence.

One thing was for sure—when the moment came, it would be unforgettable.

Ashley was practically vibrating with excitement as she gathered the empty cups and cones, threw them in the nearby trash bin, and led her Pokémon back toward the Pokémon Center, ready for whatever adventures awaited them next. The moment she reached the iconic red-roof building, she made a beeline for the front desk, where Nurse Joy stood sorting paperwork.

“Nurse Joy!” Ashley’s voice carried a mix of eagerness and nerves. “Can I borrow one of the bigger rooms in the back? I, uh, I’ve got something important to do, and I’d feel better if you and Chansey were there. You know, just in case.”

Nurse Joy tilted her head, her curious expression quickly melting into a warm, proud smile. “Of course, Ashley. I’d be happy to help.” She motioned to Chansey, who immediately set down her tray and waddled over. “Follow me. We’ll get everything set up.”

Ashley exhaled in relief and followed, her team’s curiosity growing with every step. Vulcan trotted close to her side, his ears perked up in interest. Mars, as usual, sauntered behind them with his arms crossed, pretending to be unimpressed but glancing at her bag more than once. Proserpina waddled along, blissfully unaware of the big moment ahead.

When they reached the room, Nurse Joy pushed open the door to reveal a spacious training area with soft mats covering the floor. The lighting was warm, casting a gentle glow that made it feel safe and inviting.

“Alright,” Ashley said, clapping her hands together. “Everybody out!”

She released her entire team from their Poké Balls. Neptune materialized with a graceful hum, his large frame taking up one corner of the room. Chione and Mercury appeared in flashes of light, both blinking curiously as they took in their surroundings. Venus, ever the diva, stretched daintily as if she’d just stepped off a stage, while Apollo slithered around Ashley’s neck like his usual living scarf.

What’s going on? Mars skeptical snort seem to ask, his tail flame flickering as he crossed his arms again. Vulcan barked in response, wagging his tail as if to say, Something exciting, obviously!

Ashley reached into her bag and carefully pulled out the Leaf Stone, holding it up so everyone could see. “This,” she said, her voice brimming with excitement, “is why we’re here. Proserpina’s ready to evolve!”

The room erupted in a mix of cheers and reactions. Chione let out a dainty bark, twirling in place, while Mercury bounced on his paws. Venus sat up straighter, her eyes sparkling with approval, clearly taking credit for her teammate’s readiness. Even Mars let out a low growl, as if saying, About time, flower girl.

Ashley handed her PokéNav to Chansey with a grin. “Think you can handle recording this? I don’t want to miss a second.”

“Chansey!” the pink Pokémon chirped, giving a determined nod as she took the device. She positioned herself perfectly, ready to capture the moment.

Ashley turned to Proserpina, crouching to meet her at eye level. “Alright, girl, this is your moment. Are you ready?”

Proserpina tilted her head, her petals trembling slightly as if she were processing the weight of the moment. Then, with a resolute nod, she reached forward and touched the Leaf Stone that Ashley held out to her.

The effect was immediate. A radiant green light engulfed Proserpina, her small frame glowing as the energy of the Leaf Stone surged through her. Ashley stepped back, her breath catching in her throat as the light grew brighter, filling the entire room. The rest of the team watched in awe, their eyes wide as they took in the transformation.

Proserpina’s form began to shift, her petals expanding and unfurling into a magnificent, vibrant bloom that radiated life and energy. Her body grew taller, her once-waddling legs now sturdier and more balanced. The light around her pulsed one final time before fading, leaving a stunning Vileplume standing in her place.

The room was silent for a beat, everyone staring at the newly evolved Proserpina in awe. Her massive red flower swayed slightly, its vivid color glowing under the soft lights. She blinked, looking down at herself, and then at her teammates.

Ashley broke the silence with a whoop of joy, throwing her arms around Proserpina in a tight hug. “You did it! Look at you—you’re beautiful!”

Proserpina let out a delighted trill, nuzzling Ashley with her larger petals. The rest of the team quickly crowded around her, offering congratulations in their own ways. Venus tapped her gently on the leg with an approving paw, while Neptune let out a harmonious call. Chione barked excitedly, her snowy tail wagging furiously, and Mercury tried to imitate it, only to stumble into Vulcan, who laughed and nudged him back upright. Even Mars patted her on the shoulder.

Chansey chirped and waddled over, holding up the PokéNav triumphantly. The video had turned out perfectly. Meanwhile, Nurse Joy was clapping her hands, her smile radiant. “That was incredible, Ashley. Proserpina looks stronger than ever.”

Ashley beamed, brushing away a tear of happiness. “Thanks, Nurse Joy. Could you give her a check out? This is the first time I’ve used an evolutionary stone.” She gave Proserpina another hug before stepping back, letting her teammate bask in the attention.

“Of course,” Nurse Joy smiled fondly.

Nurse Joy took a step back, her gaze softening as she took in the full splendor of Proserpina, her vibrant petals unfurling in a magnificent display of color. The transformation from Gloom to Vileplume was striking—Proserpina's once-slight frame had expanded, the deep purple of her flower now bursting with shades of pink, red, and yellow, the colors shifting like a living painting in the light. Nurse Joy couldn't help but admire the beauty of the evolution, the way Proserpina carried herself with new, dignified poise.

She gently ran her hand along the edge of one of the flower's massive petals, the soft texture contrasting with its delicate strength. Proserpina seemed to stand taller, her wide, elegant petals glowing with energy, a calm yet commanding presence. "She's absolutely healthy," Nurse Joy remarked, her voice warm with approval. Her smile stretched wider as she met Ashley's eyes. "In fact, I'd say she's in prime condition. You’ve done a wonderful job raising her."

The words of praise made Ashley’s chest swell with pride, though a hint of nervousness lingered in her expression. She watched as Nurse Joy meticulously checked every part of Proserpina, looking for any signs of stress or imbalance after the evolution. When Nurse Joy spoke again, it was with the kind of certainty that put Ashley at ease.

Chansey, standing nearby with a clipboard in hand, nodded enthusiastically at Nurse Joy's words. "Chansey, Chansey!" the pink Pokémon chirped, making a few quick notes, her eyes twinkling with happiness at the good report.

Ashley let out a deep breath she hadn’t realized she was holding, and a huge grin spread across her face as the tension she had been carrying melted away. "That's a load off my mind," she admitted, her voice lighter now, filled with relief. She took a step toward Proserpina, running a hand over her partner's smooth, leafy stem. "I knew she’d be fine, but... you know, first-time evolution jitters."

Nurse Joy chuckled softly, her tone understanding. "It’s completely natural to feel that way. Evolution is a big step for both of you, and seeing how well Proserpina is adjusting? It’s clear you’ve been there for each other every step of the way." She glanced at Chansey, who nodded in agreement with an enthusiastic "Chansey!" before turning back to Ashley with a reassuring smile. "She’s flourishing, both in body and spirit."

Proserpina, now reaching Ashley’s midbody, nuzzled her trainer with one of her massive petals, letting out a trill of appreciation. The rest of the team crowded around her again, as if still marveling at her new form. Mars gave her an exaggerated once-over, nodding approvingly, while Vulcan circled her feet, barking playfully.

“You’re gonna need to watch your step now, Proserpina,” Ashley teased, leaning back against the massive flower and laughing when Proserpina gave her an indignant huff. “I mean it—one wrong move, and you’re flattening someone.”

Venus, ever the diva, made an exaggerated leap out of Proserpina’s path as if to drive the point home, landing daintily with a dramatic flick of her tail. Ashley snickered and ruffled the Eevee’s fur. “See? Even Venus agrees.”

The following days in Vermilion City became all about helping Proserpina adjust to her new body and size. Ashley made sure to carve out time between her errands and sightseeing to practice with her newly evolved Pokémon, ensuring she felt confident and comfortable.

One morning, the team gathered in a quiet park near the harbor. The air smelled of saltwater and blooming flowers, a mix that seemed to invigorate Proserpina. Ashley had set up an impromptu obstacle course using cones and fallen logs to help the Vileplume work on her movement.

“Alright, Proserpina, let’s start simple,” Ashley called, stepping to the side as her Pokémon readied herself. “Just weave between the cones—nice and steady.”

Proserpina nodded, determination gleaming in her eyes. She moved forward, her petals swaying with each step. At first, she wobbled slightly, her larger size making the sharp turns awkward. Vulcan barked encouragement from the sidelines, and Mercury darted between the cones himself as if to demonstrate.

Ashley laughed, clapping her hands. “See, you’ve got this! Just take your time.”

By the third run, Proserpina was navigating the course with more confidence. Her movements became smoother, and her massive flower swayed less as she adjusted to her new center of gravity. Chione and Neptune cheered from the sidelines, while Mars remained perched on a nearby bench, lazily applauding with sarcastic flair.

In addition to her agility, Ashley worked with Proserpina on her new moves. They practiced using Grassy Terrain to blanket the area in vibrant, energizing greenery, followed by precise Magical Leaf attacks.

“Focus, Proserpina,” Ashley said, holding up a target ring she’d bought in town. “Hit the center!”

Proserpina narrowed her eyes and let out a hum of concentration before releasing a flurry of shimmering leaves. The glowing projectiles spiraled through the air and struck the center of the ring with pinpoint accuracy, earning cheers from the entire team.

Ashley grinned, lowering the ring. “That’s my girl!”

When the evenings rolled around, the group would gather by the harbor to relax. The gentle waves lapping against the docks provided a soothing backdrop as Ashley and her Pokémon watched the sun dip below the horizon.

Ashley leaned back with a contented sigh. “You know,” she said, glancing at Proserpina, “I think you’re gonna be the star of the show on the S.S. Anne. You’ve got this whole graceful powerhouse thing going on.”

Proserpina tilted her head, letting out a soft trill, while Mercury and Venus playfully nipped at each other’s tails. Chione rested her snowy head on Vulcan’s back, the two of them enjoying the cool evening air.

Mars, sitting on the bench next to Ashley, smirked. Ashley snorted, elbowing him lightly. “Don’t get ahead of yourself, hotshot. You’ve got competition.” She gestured to the rest of the team. “This crew is full of stars.”

Mars rolled his eyes but didn’t argue, a rare moment of humility for the fiery Charmeleon.

By the time the day to board the S.S. Anne arrived, Proserpina was moving with ease and confidence, her massive bloom swaying with effortless grace. Ashley couldn’t have been prouder. Standing at the gangway of the grand ship, with Venus and Mercury gathered around her, she felt a surge of excitement for what lay ahead.

“Well, guys,” she said, clutching her ticket, “next stop, adventure. Let’s make it a good one!”

The moment Ashley stepped onto the polished deck of the S.S. Anne, her jaw nearly hit the floor. The ship was massive, glimmering under the sun like a floating palace. Trainers, tourists, and well-dressed staff moved about with a purposeful elegance that made the entire experience feel unreal. Mercury and Venus, however, were not as awe-struck. The two Eevees darted and weaved around her legs, their playful growls and quick feints turning the gangway into their personal playground.

“Mercury! Venus!” Ashley half-laughed, half-scolded as she sidestepped yet another dive at her ankles. “Do you want me to faceplant in front of everyone?”

A sailor passing by chuckled, tipping his cap. “You’ve got a handful there, miss.”

“Don’t I know it,” Ashley muttered with a grin, expertly navigating their antics without a single stumble. Thanks to Koga’s training and her time at the Fighting Dojo, her reflexes were sharper than ever—though she suspected her Eevees were testing her on purpose.

After handing over her ticket to a sharply dressed attendant, Ashley was guided down a gleaming corridor lined with gold-trimmed railings and intricate carvings of legendary Pokémon. Her eyes widened further with each step, the grandeur of the ship sinking in.

Finally, the attendant stopped in front of a polished oak door and handed her a keycard. “This will be your cabin for the duration of the cruise. If you need anything, don’t hesitate to ask.” He tipped his hat and disappeared down the hallway.

Ashley swiped the keycard and stepped inside—and immediately let out a loud gasp. “Whoa.”

The cabin was enormous, especially compared to the usual cramped quarters she’d grown used to at Pokémon Centers. There was a large bed with fluffy pillows that looked like they belonged in a five-star hotel, and a sitting area with plush sofas. But what caught her attention the most was the sheer size of the floor space—spacious enough for Neptune to stretch out and sleep comfortably.

“Luxury cruise, huh?” Ashley muttered, a wide grin spreading across her face as she set her bag down. Mercury and Venus darted past her, leaping onto the bed in unison and immediately pawing at the pristine blankets. “Hey, hey, paws off the linens!” Ashley rushed over, laughing as she tried to shoo them back down.

Mercury gave her an innocent tilt of his head, while Venus simply flopped onto her side, refusing to budge.

“Oh, you’re gonna play it like that, huh?” Ashley smirked, scooping up Venus with a feigned groan. “Fine, I’ll let you get away with it this time. But if Nurse Joy finds out you’re behaving like a diva on a luxury cruise, she’s gonna take her revenge.”

Venus let out a soft “Vee,” clearly unimpressed by the warning.

Ashley placed her back on the floor and turned her attention to her Poké Balls. With a quick toss, she released Neptune, Mars, Chione, and Proserpina into the room. Neptune’s towering presence nearly filled the space, but he let out a low trill of delight as he realized he could stretch out without bumping into anything. Chione scampered across the room, inspecting every corner with her icy curiosity, while Mars wasted no time claiming one of the sofas as his throne. Proserpina, ever the graceful one, waddled to the balcony and peeked outside, her vibrant petals glowing softly in the sunlight.

“Well, gang,” Ashley said, leaning against the edge of the bed, “this is home for the next few days. Let’s enjoy it, huh? You’ve all earned a little break after the madness in Vermilion.”

Mars snorted. “Char,” he muttered, clearly not one for lounging about.

Ashley rolled her eyes. “Don’t worry, hotshot. There’s a tournament on board, remember? You’ll get your chance to show off soon enough.”

Satisfied, Mars smirked and stretched out further, closing his eyes like he already owned the place.

Neptune settled near the round windows, his long neck resting gracefully on the carpet. Mercury and Venus took turns darting between his fins, their high-pitched laughter echoing in the cabin. Chione hopped up beside Ashley and nuzzled her arm, her snowy fur cool to the touch.

“You guys are too cute,” Ashley murmured, scratching behind Chione’s ears. “Alright, let’s unpack and get settled. We’ve got a big adventure ahead.”

After ensuring her team was comfortable in the spacious cabin and her belongings were neatly stowed away, Ashley grabbed her bag and motioned for Mercury and Venus to follow her. The two Eevees didn’t need any encouragement—practically vibrating with excitement, they darted toward the door.

“Alright, you two,” Ashley said with a grin, holding the door open as Mercury sprinted ahead and Venus pranced beside her. “Let’s go see what this floating palace has to offer!”

The second they stepped into the ship’s grand hallway, the sounds of laughter, conversation, and the faint hum of live music greeted them. The air buzzed with excitement, and Ashley could feel her own energy rising to match the lively atmosphere.

Her first stop was the casino floor, and as Ashley stepped through the grand entrance, she immediately felt like she’d walked into a scene straight out of a spy movie. The air was alive with a buzz of excitement, the kind that made you feel both out of place and utterly drawn in at the same time. Chandeliers sparkled overhead, casting a soft, golden glow that reflected off the polished marble floors. Slot machines chimed and flashed as trainers celebrated small victories, while others gathered around the blackjack table.

At the roulette table, a group of trainers stood, eyes locked on the spinning wheel as Pokémon perched proudly on their shoulders, their tiny faces filled with concentration. The hum of chatter and the occasional joyful shout filled the air, blending with the sounds of coins clinking and the mechanical whir of the Pachinko machines on the far side of the room.

Ashley was momentarily swept up in the scene. It was all so vibrant, so full of life—yet part of her remained focused, scanning the crowd for any signs of trouble or familiar faces. She was here for fun, but she wouldn’t let her guard down.

Mercury’s ears perked up at the sharp, satisfying sound of jingling coins spilling from a nearby machine, his eyes lighting up with interest. Before Ashley could react, he leapt onto her shoulder with a practiced hop, his fluffy tail twitching in excitement as he tried to get a better look at the money tumbling down.

"Don’t get any ideas, buddy," Ashley teased, tilting her head so she could scratch the Jolteon's chin, feeling the familiar electric charge in his fur. "I’m not blowing our Gym winnings here."

Mercury’s tail wagged furiously, his way of saying, Oh, but it looks so fun! But Ashley knew him too well—he’d be just as likely to start causing trouble as he was to enjoy a game of chance.

Behind her, Venus had already trotted off, her little legs quick to explore the new surroundings. Ashley turned to see the Eevee standing in front of a row of brightly lit Pachinko machines, her fur shimmering under the lights as she curiously inspected a Smeargle who was acting as the dealer. The Smeargle was a blur of colors, his tail sweeping up and down as he shuffled the colorful balls, placing them into various channels with a meticulous precision that clearly indicated a mastery of the game.

Venus let out a soft “Vee?” as if questioning the mechanics of the game, her head cocking to one side. She looked so intrigued, her eyes wide with wonder, as though she were trying to figure out how the tiny balls could bring so much excitement.

Ashley chuckled to herself, stepping forward to scoop Venus into her arms before the Eevee could press her paw against any buttons or, worse, accidentally win a jackpot. “Yeah, I don’t think this is your scene either, diva,” she said, her voice light with affection. Venus gave a small, disappointed whimper but nuzzled against her trainer’s chest, content in her arms.

Ashley gently adjusted her hold on Venus, her attention split between the bustling casino floor and her two energetic Pokémon. It was a strange feeling—being so caught up in the excitement of the place yet feeling the comforting weight of her partners by her side. Mercury’s soft purr on her shoulder and Venus’ curious gaze, grounding her in the moment. She couldn’t help but smile as she looked around once more, letting herself enjoy the atmosphere, but keeping one eye on her team.

From there, they made their way to the buffet, and the sheer variety of food on display made Ashley stop in her tracks. The long tables overflowed with dishes from all regions: Alolan malasadas, Sinnohan poffins, spicy Unovan wings, and towering cakes that seemed too elaborate to eat. Pokémon and trainers alike were enjoying the feast, their chatter mingling with the clinking of plates and cutlery.

Mercury’s nose twitched furiously as he zeroed in on a platter of sushi. Before he could pounce, Ashley stepped in.

“Easy, tiger,” she said, tugging him back gently by his scruff. “You just ate like, one hour ago.”

Venus, on the other hand, sat primly by Ashley’s feet, staring pointedly at a display of Oran Berry parfaits. Ashley sighed. “Fine, you win,” she relented, grabbing a small parfait cup for Venus and a berry salad for Mercury.

She grabbed a snack for herself—a buttered roll and some Kanto-style noodles—then found a table near the window. The sight of the endless ocean stretching into the horizon was mesmerizing.

“This is the life,” Ashley said between bites, leaning back in her chair as Venus daintily licked her parfait and Mercury wolfed down his berries.

Next stop was the shopping deck, where boutique stalls were set up to sell everything from specialty Poké Balls to rare accessories for trainers and Pokémon. Ashley found herself drawn to a display of Evolution Stones, her eyes lingering on the glittering gems.

Nearby, a Machoke vendor was selling muscle bands and training weights. Ashley picked up a Power Band, thinking it might help Mars during their next round of strength training. Venus sniffed at a silk scarf stand, her tail wagging faintly.

“Don’t even think about it,” Ashley laughed, getting her away from the scarf she was eyeing. “You already have one, with a pearl accessory!”

Ashley put back the Power Band and left the shops before Venus would convince her to buy the whole place. One day she will learn to stop taking Venus shopping. She is a shopaholic menace!

Ashley leaned against the railing on the deck, her two Eevees at her side. The breeze ruffled her hair, carrying with it the salty scent of the ocean. Trainers and Pokémon milled about, the lively energy of the day slowly giving way to a more tranquil evening.

“This ship’s incredible,” she murmured, scratching Mercury behind the ears. “I’m glad we’re taking this little break before the tournament. We’ve earned it.”

Venus let out a soft “Vee,” her way of agreeing, while Mercury yawned contentedly.

Finally, they made their way to the pool deck, and the sight took Ashley’s breath away. The massive pool sparkled under the afternoon sun, with small Pokémon splashing in the shallows and trainers lounging on recliners. Beyond the pool, the vast ocean stretched endlessly, the water blending seamlessly with the sky.

Venus immediately bolted toward the edge of the pool, pawing at the water. Ashley quickly scooped her up.

“Not yet, my sweet diva,” she said, laughing. Venus licked her trainer’s face and started barking excitedly, tail wagging. “You’re ridiculous, you know that? Fine! But we will need to go back to the shops, I did not pack a swimsuit. I was not expecting to catch an Eevee that seems to love the water as much as breathing.”  

Ashley found herself back at the shopping deck, grinning as she browsed through racks of swimsuits. Venus had made it very clear she was ready to make a splash, quite literally, and Ashley wasn’t about to let her diva down. She thumbed through a few options, her Eevees at her feet, Mercury investigating every corner of the shop while Venus sat primly beside her, as if silently approving—or judging—her choices.

“Okay, how about this one?” Ashley held up a bright yellow swimsuit with frilly edges. Venus flicked an ear but didn’t seem overly impressed.

“Not your style? Alright, tough crowd,” Ashley muttered, tossing it back onto the rack. She kept browsing until her fingers grazed a bold red and white bikini. Its design mimicked a classic Poké Ball, with sleek lines and a flattering fit. Ashley held it up to herself in front of a mirror.

“What do you think?” she asked, glancing down at Venus.

The Eevee let out an approving “Vee!” while Mercury, poking his head out from behind a shelf of sunglasses, chirped his agreement.

“Great, it’s a win,” Ashley decided with a laugh. She grabbed a matching red beach towel and a pair of simple white flip-flops before heading to the register.

With her new swimwear on and her essentials packed into a beach tote, Ashley returned to the pool deck, ready for some well-earned relaxation. Her red and white bikini gleamed in the sun, the design drawing a few admiring glances from trainers lounging nearby. Ashley didn’t notice, though—she was too focused on Venus, who surprised Ashley by leaping into the water without hesitation. The Eevee landed with a graceful splash, her paws paddling expertly as she glided through the water like a natural swimmer. Ashley blinked in surprise, her mouth slightly open as she exchanged an incredulous look with Mercury.

Mercury tilted his head as if sharing her disbelief, then let out a soft bark as Venus did a quick circle in the pool, her wet fur glistening in the fading sunlight.

"Guess she’s full of surprises," Ashley murmured, slipping off her flip-flops. She sat at the edge of the pool, dipping her legs into the cool water. Venus swam up to her, giving a delighted yip as she splashed Ashley’s feet with her tail.

"Oh, you think that’s funny, huh?" Ashley said with a laugh, flicking water back at Venus with her toes. The Eevee responded with an even bigger splash, drenching Ashley’s legs. Mercury hopped closer, sniffing at the water as if debating whether he should join in. When a playful Goldeen splashed near the edge, he leapt back, his fur fluffing up in alarm. Ashley couldn’t help but laugh.

“First time seeing a pool, huh?” she said, patting his head. “Don’t worry, Mercury. You’ll get used to it.”

Ashley waded into the pool, the cool water a refreshing contrast to the warm sun. Venus paddled alongside her, her little paws churning the water energetically. Mercury stayed on the deck for a moment, watching nervously before finally mustering the courage to jump in with an adorable splash.

“See? Not so bad!” Ashley cheered, grinning as Mercury swam awkwardly toward her. She gently guided him to shallower water, where he could stand with his paws touching the bottom.

Mercury soon join Venus in swimming circles around Ashley, their playful barks echoing across the deck. Venus, ever the show-off, dived briefly underwater before resurfacing with a triumphant shake, sending droplets flying. Mercury followed her lead, his strokes clumsy but determined, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Alright, you two," Ashley said, treading water as she watched them splash and play. “Let’s all calm down.”

Venus let out a delighted bark, while Mercury attempted a splash that ended up soaking Ashley’s face. She gasped, sputtering playfully. "Oh, so that’s how it’s gonna be, huh?"

Ashley cupped her hands and sent a wave of water back at Venus, who squealed in delight. Mercury joined in; his earlier hesitation forgotten as he joined the splashing war. Nearby trainers chuckled at the sight, some even encouraging their own Pokémon to join the fun. A Poliwag and a Starmie floated over, adding to the chaos, and Venus happily barked at her new companions.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the pool deck, Ashley eventually guided the two Eevees to the shallow end, where they could stand comfortably. Venus stood tall, looking as regal as ever despite her damp fur, while Mercury flopped onto his side, panting softly as if to say, This is the life.

Climbing out of the pool, Ashley grabbed her red beach towel and wrapped Venus up first, gently rubbing her fur dry. "Not bad, Princess," she teased, earning a proud chirp from the Eevee. Mercury flopped at her feet, rolling onto his back with a contented sigh, making Ashley laugh as she leaned down to dry him off as well.

"I think that’s enough excitement for one day," she said, glancing down at the two Eevees, as she guided them to a recliner. Venus yawned, her eyes drooping, while Mercury nuzzled against Ashley’s ankles, already half-asleep.

The last rays of sun were warm against Ashley’s skin as she lounged on a cushioned recliner near the pool, sipping on a tall glass of fresh orange juice with a little umbrella poking out the top. The gentle hum of conversation and the occasional splash of water provided a peaceful backdrop. Venus and Mercury were sprawled on towels beside her, their fur still slightly damp from their earlier swim but fluffing up in the sun’s rays. Venus stretched lazily, her tail flicking idly, while Mercury rolled onto his back, one paw twitching as he dozed.

Ashley smiled at the sight of them. “You two have got this luxury life figured out, huh?” she teased, tilting her sunglasses to give them a playful look. Venus responded with a contented chirp, her bright eyes sparkling as she looked out toward the pool. Mercury gave a sleepy yawn, flicking an ear in acknowledgement before settling back down.

Taking another sip of her juice, Ashley turned her gaze to Venus. A thought had been nagging at the back of her mind and now seemed like the perfect moment to bring it up. She set the glass on the little side table and leaned forward slightly, resting her elbows on her knees.

“Hey, Venus,” she began, her tone soft but curious. The Eevee perked up immediately, tilting her head at Ashley’s tone. “We’ve never really talked about what you want to evolve into, have we?”

Venus blinked, her ears twitching. Mercury cracked an eye open at the question, though he quickly closed it again, clearly uninterested.

Ashley continued, her fingers absentmindedly playing with the edge of her towel. “Mercury’s been pretty set on being a Jolteon since day one. I mean, he practically pointed it out on the Pokédex like it was calling his name.” She grinned at the memory, but her expression softened as she looked back at Venus. “But you’ve always been more... patient about it. Like you’re not in any rush.”

Venus gave a small nod, her tail swishing behind her. Ashley reached over to scratch behind her ear, eliciting a pleased hum from the Eevee.

“I get it,” Ashley said with a chuckle. “Honestly, I’m the same way sometimes. There’s no need to rush a big decision like that.” She paused, studying Venus thoughtfully. “But have you thought about it? Do you know what you want to become?”

Venus hesitated for a moment, then glanced toward the pool. Her gaze lingered on the shimmering water, and she gave an almost imperceptible nod before looking back at Ashley.

Ashley tilted her head, puzzled. “The pool?” she asked, leaning forward slightly. “You mean… you want to evolve into a Vaporeon?”

At that, Venus’s face lit up, and she nodded vigorously, letting out a delighted chirp as her tail wagged with enthusiasm. Mercury, now fully awake, rolled onto his side to give her a surprised but approving look.

Ashley’s eyes widened before a fond smile spread across her face. “Wow, really? I should’ve guessed earlier. You were a natural in the water earlier today, weren’t you?” Venus puffed up proudly, clearly pleased with herself.

Leaning back against the recliner, Ashley laughed softly. “You must’ve been inspired by Wallace’s performance, huh?” she teased. Venus let out an excited bark, practically bouncing on her towel. Her admiration for Wallace’s water-themed Contest performances that they had used as research, had clearly left an impression.

“Well,” Ashley said, sitting up straighter and holding her glass of juice aloft like she was making a toast, “if that’s what you want, then I promise we’ll make it happen. One Vaporeon, coming right up.”

Venus let out a delighted cry, nuzzling against Ashley’s leg. Mercury joined in with a cheerful bark, though it was clear he was more interested in the prospect of seeing his teammate evolve than anything else.

Ashley ruffled Venus’s fur affectionately. “You’re going to be amazing, Vee. Not that you aren’t already.” She smirked as Venus chirped in agreement, her confidence practically radiating from her.

They spent the rest of the afternoon lounging in comfortable silence, the warmth of the sun and the gentle sounds of the ocean creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Chapter Text

At first, it had been perfect. Cruising from city to city in his sleek red convertible, the wind in his hair, the sound of his cheerleaders calling his name in sweet, sing-song voices. Gary Oak! Gary Oak! He’s our man, if he can’t do it—no one can! He was a prodigy, a rising star, and every town he passed through reminded him of that fact. He had the skills, the confidence, and—let’s be real—the looks. It wasn’t just about being good. It was about being the best.

So, he hadn’t even blinked at the fact that Ashley had beaten him to Professor Oak’s lab. She got there first? So what? It didn’t change anything. He had his first pick of Pokémon, his Wartortle was thriving, and he was setting records on his way through Kanto.

Or at least… he thought he was.

It wasn’t until he reached Pewter City that he realized something was off.

Ashley wasn’t there.

That wasn’t possible. He had a car. He had speed. He had the advantage. How could Ashley Ketchum, of all people, have gotten ahead of him? He figured maybe she was taking her time. Maybe she was stuck in Viridian Forest, lost in a swarm of Beedrill, fumbling around in her usual chaotic way.

But no.

No, because when he called Gramps to brag—because of course he did, three Pokémon caught before his first badge? That was elite—Gramps just had to drop the bomb on him.

“Ashley? Oh, she’s on Cinnabar Island. Mentoring under Blaine.”

Gary had nearly dropped the phone. “She’s where?!”

Blaine. The Fire-type Gym Leader. The genius scientist. The Elite-level Trainer.

The absolute last person Gary had expected to take Ashley under his wing.

But that wasn’t even the worst part.

“Oh, and she caught a Growlithe,” Gramps added, like it was just some fun fact. “Quite the find, wouldn’t you say?”

A Growlithe?!

Gary had practically choked on his own words. “How did Ashley Ketchum find a Growlithe?!”

They were rare. Practically legendary for trainers starting out. And she just—what? Stumbled onto one? Got lucky?

It wasn’t possible. It shouldn’t have been possible. But it was.

And that’s when Gary had felt it.

That first, sharp prick of doubt.

Because it wasn’t just the Growlithe. It wasn’t just Blaine.

It was everything.

Ashley was already miles ahead of him, and she hadn’t even been trying.

And for the first time, Gary didn’t feel like the best.

It all started going downhill from there.

Gary’s journey—the one he had been so sure would be a legendary adventure, filled with excitement, rare Pokémon, and the thrill of crushing every opponent in his way—was turning out to be… boring.

Watching the forests of Kanto blur past through his rearview mirror lost its charm after the first few weeks. What was the point of speeding through the region when he wasn’t seeing anything? What was the point of having a convertible, of cruising ahead of the competition, if he wasn’t actually experiencing anything? And, oh Arceus, the cheerleaders.

What had once been an endless source of entertainment—constant praise, constant validation, constant cheering—had started to grate on his nerves. At first, it had been nice. Gary Oak is the best! Gary Oak will pass the test! But after hearing it every single day for months? He swore it echoed in his dreams.

And worst of all? He wasn’t finding anything special.

No rare Pokémon, no once-in-a-lifetime encounters, no Growlithe or Lapras or Dratini—just the usual run-of-the-mill catches. Golem. Kingler. Doduo. Even his most exciting catch, an Abra, had only become notable because it evolved into a Kadabra.

He was supposed to be the grandson of the famed Professor Oak! His team should have been legendary by now! Instead, he was stuck with a team that was… ordinary.

And then, just when he thought things couldn’t get worse, the losing streak began.

Pewter City? A joke. Cerulean? Even easier. But Celadon?

Celadon was a nightmare.

Gary had never hated status effects more in his entire life.

It had taken him three tries to get his hands on the Rainbow Badge. Three humiliating, frustrating, infuriating battles where his Pokémon had been put to sleep, paralyzed, poisoned, and—his personal least favorite—confused beyond all reason.

By the time he finally won, Erika had barely even looked at him. No impressed smile. No words of encouragement. And, worst of all—no TM. After all, only those who impress the Gym Leaders get a TM, and Gary? He had not earned it. Erika had just handed him the badge with a polite but utterly unimpressed nod and sent him on his way.

He should have taken the hint. He should have realized that his approach wasn’t working. But no, Gary Oak didn’t need to change! He just needed to push harder! Train more!

And then he walked into Vermilion City Gym.

Gary had never been so thoroughly wrecked in a battle before in his life.

Lt. Surge destroyed him.

Five times.

Five.

It had taken five tries before he finally scraped by with a win. By the end of it, he wasn’t even proud to hold the Thunder Badge. It felt like pity. Like Surge had finally just let him win out of exhaustion.

And of course, just like Erika, Surge didn’t give him a TM.

No wonder no rookie had completed the Kanto Gym Challenge Eight in over a century.

It had seemed so simple at first. Train hard, catch strong Pokémon, defeat the eight Gym Leaders, and march straight to the Pokémon League. That was the dream, right?

But reality?

The main eight Gyms of Kanto were known as the Thirteen Pillars, alongside the Elite Four and the Champion. These were the strongest trainers in Kanto—the absolute best. They weren’t just obstacles to be cleared; they were tests of skill, endurance, strategy, and patience. And Gary had been too arrogant to realize it before.

Looking back, it was obvious. The first two Gyms—Brock’s and Misty’s—dumbed down their abilities to help new trainers get used to Gym Battles. That’s why he had breezed through them. It wasn’t that he had been particularly great—it was because they were going easy on him.

That stung.

Gary had spent so long believing he was leagues ahead of every other trainer his age, only to be smacked in the face by reality when he reached Celadon and Vermilion. He had not been prepared. He had walked into those battles expecting easy wins, expecting his name alone to carry him through.

And he had paid for it.

Gary still didn’t know what stung worse—the losses or the fact that he didn’t even deserve the win. The adventure he had dreamed of was crumbling beneath him, and for the first time in his life… Gary Oak didn’t feel like the prodigy he had always believed himself to be.

Still, if there was one thing Gary had been thankful for after his complete humiliation at Lt. Surge’s hands, it was the S.S. Anne ticket.

It was the one good thing to come out of that experience.

The ticket had meant a break—a real break—from his increasingly annoying cheerleaders. He didn’t hate them or anything, but after months of constant chanting and flattery, he needed silence.

Just him, his Pokémon, and a moment to breathe.

He hadn’t realized how much he needed it until he was already stepping onto the ship, leaving behind the noise and the distractions.

Gary let out a loud, exaggerated groan, flopping back in his chair like a deflated balloon. His half-finished glass of pineapple juice rocked precariously on the table, catching the warm glow of the afternoon sun. On the floor beside him, Wartortle barely cracked an eye open from where he was stretched out, sunbathing on his shell like he had not a single care in the world.

"Must be nice," Gary muttered, side-eyeing his partner. "Just laying there, no responsibilities, no stress, no battle tournament that I can’t enter because Surge wrecked half my team."

Wartortle let out a sleepy "Waaaarrr," barely lifting his head before rolling over onto his stomach. Clearly, he wasn’t worried.

Gary, however, was seething.

The tournament had been his one shot at getting his hands on an evolutionary stone—something his Gramps refused to just hand over to him, despite being literally one of the most influential Pokémon researchers in the world.

Because apparently, this was his journey, and he had to earn his way.

Gary scoffed, crossing his arms as he sank further into his chair.

"Earn my way, huh?" he grumbled. "Tell that to Surge. Guy didn't have to go that hard."

His mind replayed the brutal takedown of his team. Even with his tactical mind and natural talent, he had been completely outclassed. His Pokémon were good—no, great—but the Gym Leaders of Kanto weren’t just any trainers. They were called the Thirteen Pillars for a reason.

Still, it didn’t make the situation any less frustrating.

He needed those Moon Stones for Nidorino and Nidorina. He needed a Metal Coat for Scyther. He needed something to give him an edge, and now his best shot had slipped through his fingers because half his team was out of commission.

And if that wasn’t bad enough, he still had to figure out what to do about the Kanto Gym Challenge.

Four badges down, four to go.

But after Celadon and Vermilion, it was painfully clear that the remaining Gyms were going to be nightmares to get through. He had already barely scraped by at Surge’s gym—if he went into another major battle without seriously training his team, he was going to get wiped.

He drummed his fingers against the table, his lips pressing into a thin line.

Maybe it was time to be realistic.

If he wanted to actually compete in the Conference, he might need to drop out of the Kanto Challenge Eight and get his remaining badges from minor gyms. They wouldn’t carry the same prestige, but they would get him the necessary qualifications.

And at this point? He just needed something to go right.

Gary groaned again, rubbing his hands down his face. Everything was a mess. His team was injured, he couldn’t compete in the tournament, and his cheerleaders were probably off somewhere crashing his car.

Wartortle finally sat up, yawning before giving Gary a lazy nudge with his paw. "War?"

Gary exhaled heavily, tilting his head back toward the sky.

"Yeah, yeah, I know. No use sulking about it," he muttered. He reached over and patted Wartortle’s head, earning a satisfied hum from his partner. "Guess I just gotta figure out what to do next."

Not that he had many options.

But maybe—just maybe—this was the wake-up call he needed.

“Gary!” His head snapped when he heard the familiar cheerful voice calling out his name. Gary’s eyes widened when he saw Ashley waving her hand excitedly, smiling widely.

Gary leaned back in his chair, schooling his expression into one of cool indifference as Ashley slid into the seat across from him, her usual grin in place. She set her glass of orange juice on the table, the condensation already dripping down the sides in the warm afternoon sun. Her two Eevees settled beside her—one immediately engaging in an energetic playfight with Wartortle, while the other, the one with the pearl-adorned light blue scarf, climbed into Ashley’s lap with an air of entitlement that reminded Gary a little too much of Daisy when she used to boss him around as a kid.

He had noticed right away how much Ashley had changed since Pallet Town. Her training was paying off—she was leaner, her muscles more defined, her movements sharper, more purposeful. She carried herself differently now, and it wasn’t just confidence; it was experience.

Gary scowled, not at her, but at the fact that more than a few eyes were lingering on her. Men old enough to know better, their gazes lingering a second too long. Gary shot them all a glare, a silent warning that had more than one of them awkwardly looking away. Disgusting. He knew Ashley could take care of herself, but still.

Ashley, oblivious to the silent death stares Gary was throwing around, took a sip of her juice before resting her chin on her hand, her reddish-brown eyes sharp with interest. "So, are you joining the tournament?" she asked casually.

Gary felt his jaw tighten, but he managed to keep his expression neutral. He was not about to admit that he couldn’t enter. Instead, he scoffed and leaned back, folding his arms behind his head with an easy smirk.

"Please, like I’d waste my time playing with a bunch of rookies," he drawled lazily. "I’m saving my energy for real challenges."

Ashley gave him a long, knowing look, her lips twitching slightly like she was holding back a laugh. "Uh-huh," she said, clearly not buying it. "So, you think the tournament is just for rookies, huh?" She gestured vaguely at the cruise around them. Gary's smirk twitched, and he felt a pang of regret so deep in his soul, but he had already committed to this lie, and there was no way he was backing down now. Ashley raised an eyebrow, looking highly amused. "Right," she said slowly, then turned her attention to the Eevee in her lap, idly scratching behind her ears. "Well, I’ll be in the tournament. Not sure if I’ll win, but hey, who knows?" She shrugged. "Could be fun."

Gary rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, rub it in, why don’tcha."

Ashley laughed at that, the sound bright and carefree. "Oh, I definitely will," she teased. Then, glancing at his half-finished pineapple juice, she nudged her foot against his under the table. "What about you? You just gonna mope around by the pool all day?"

Gary snorted, crossing his arms. "Mope? Please. I’m just relaxing."

Ashley grinned at him, clearly not believing a word of it, and Gary found himself scowling again, mostly because—ugh—this was Ashley, and she was way too good at reading him.

He wasn’t sulking.

Not at all.

Definitely not about missing the tournament.

Not even a little.

Gary leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, swirling his half-empty pineapple juice with a frown. “Alright, humor me,” he said, trying to sound casual. “How many badges do you have now?”

Ashley perked up, completely oblivious to the tension creeping into his voice. “Five!” she said, her eyes sparkling with pride.

Gary nearly choked on his drink. “Five?!” He sat up, gripping the edge of the table. “No way.”

Ashley smirked. “Way.”

This whole conversation wasn’t going the way he thought it would. He’d been ready to rub his latest gym victories in Ashley’s face, but instead, it was her kicking his butt in the badge count. Gary ran a hand through his hair, frustration and disbelief warring inside him. He’d been struggling to get through some of his battles, and yet somehow Ashley—his childhood rival who he refused to acknowledge as an equal—was not only keeping up but surpassing him?!

“Which ones?” he asked, trying to sound indifferent.

Ashley, who was still on her post-victory high, listed them off on her fingers. “Volcano, Soul, Rainbow, Marsh, and Thunder.”

Gary slumped back in his seat, utterly floored. “You’re kidding me. You got five of the strongest Kanto Challenge Eight? And Thunder was your most recent?” He shook his head, absolutely stunned. “How did you even do that?”

Ashley shrugged like it wasn’t a big deal. “I train hard, my team trains harder, and we don’t back down.” She grinned, clearly pleased with herself.

Gary, on the other hand, was not pleased. He only had four badges, and compared to hers, they felt unimpressive. She had some of the toughest Gym Leaders in Kanto under her belt—Blaine, Sabrina, Koga, Erika, Surge. That wasn’t just impressive, that was insane. And here he was, struggling through basic battles, barely scraping through Vermilion City.

A wave of insecurity washed over him, and before he could stop himself, he deflected. “Alright, alright,” he said, forcing a laugh that felt a little too fake. “Let’s talk about something else. Like your team.” He leaned forward, feigning interest, trying to regain some sense of superiority. “Who’s in your lineup?”

That was a mistake.

Because Ashley’s face lit up, and before Gary could even brace himself, she was already pulling out her PokéNav, scrolling through her photos like a proud mother showing off baby pictures.

“Oh man, Gary, you have no idea!” she gushed, tapping through the images. “Okay, okay, so first up—Mars, my Charmeleon. Fiery as ever, total powerhouse, and my starter—look at him, he’s a beast!” She turned the screen toward Gary, showing a picture of a battle-scarred, smirking Charmeleon mid-Flamethrower. “Then there’s Vulcan—my Growlithe, best boy ever—”

Gary was already regretting this.

“—and Neptune, my Lapras, the storm bringer—” she swiped to a photo of Neptune using Rain Dance over the ocean, the storm clouds reflecting in his massive eyes, “—Proserpina, my tank of a Vileplume, Venus, my queen—”

Gary blinked. “Queen?”

Ashley turned the screen again, showing Venus the Eevee—no, wait, that’s the Eevee sitting on Ashley’s lap like royalty.

Gary stared. “You seriously trained an Eevee into thinking she’s royalty?”

Ashley huffed. “Excuse you, she knows she’s royalty.”

Gary wanted to argue, but Venus yipped from her trainer’s lap, looking like a spoiled noblewoman. He sighed, motioning for her to continue.

Ashley grinned and moved on. “Apollo—my cute, adorable Dratini—” she paused for dramatic effect, then flipped the screen around.

Gary felt something in his brain short-circuit.

But Ashley was already moving on. “Anyway, then there’s Mercury—my other Eevee, he’s still super playful and hyper, but I know he wants to be a Jolteon—” she swiped again to show a blurry image of the little Eevee mid-air, mid-pounce, his expression pure chaos.

Gary was barely listening at this point. He felt like he was drowning in a tidal wave of what the hell. “Where do you even find this stuff?” he muttered.

Ashley ignored him. “—and last but definitely not least—Chione! My Alolan Vulpix!” She turned the screen again, revealing a snow-white Vulpix, delicate and regal, sitting in a pile of frost.

Gary just stared.

Because of course Ashley, of all people, had an Alolan Vulpix. Because why not? Because nothing about her journey could be normal.

“You have a regional variant Pokémon?!” he blurted out, barely believing it.

Ashley beamed. “Cool, right?”

Gary took another sip of his pineapple juice as he watched her sharing the story behind every picture, trying really hard not to be bitter about the fact that his best Pokémon at the moment was Wartortle.

And that Ashley’s team could probably wipe the floor with him.

He needed to train. Fast.

When Ashley stopped at one picture in particular, Gary blinked at the PokéNav, then at Ashley, then back at the PokéNav again, his brain barely keeping up with what he was looking at. Has she lost her damn mind?

A Dratini scarf? A Dratini scarf?!

That thing was a pseudo-legendary! A Pokémon people spent years searching for! And here Ashley was, casually letting it coil around her neck like it was just another fashionable accessory. Like it wasn't one of the rarest Pokémon in the world, just hanging off her like a decorative boa.

“Are you—” Gary shook his head, pointing at the image. “Are you seriously telling me you wear your Dratini?! Like an accessory?!”

Ashley laughed. “It’s comfy!”

Gary dragged a hand down his face. “You’ve lost it. You’ve completely lost it.”

Gary could feel his sanity slipping.

And the training pictures that followed?

Koga. Freaking Koga.

She had been trained by Koga. The freaking Ninja Master himself.

Gary couldn't breathe for a second. How in the world had Ashley Ketchum—the girl who once thought a Weedle was a baby Dragonite (yes, he still remembers that embarrassing phase, thank you very much)—ended up rubbing elbows with some of the strongest Gym Leaders in Kanto like it was nothing?!

What did she do to deserve that? How did she get that kind of privilege? He had the last name Oak, and no one was out here giving him secret ninja training!

It was like she was living his dream, and she didn't even realize it.

"—so yeah, Koga really helped me with my speed and reflexes, and Blaine was incredible with battle strategies! I mean, he's so smart, and he really drilled into me how to handle high-pressure situations. It's helped a lot in my battles, and I think it's part of why I won against Surge so cleanly!"

Gary barely processed what she was saying anymore. He just kept staring at the PokéNav like it was personally attacking him.

Ashley Ketchum had an insane team.

Ashley Ketchum had five badges.

Ashley Ketchum had mentors in Koga and Blaine.

And now, Ashley Ketchum was about to enter a tournament on the S.S. Anne, casually stacking more wins like they were nothing, while Gary was stuck nursing his losses and realizing his team wasn’t even close to being on the same level.

Gary felt sick.

Gary groaned, burying his face in his hands. “This isn’t a team, this is a freaking rock band.”

Ashley laughed, not catching the frustration laced in his voice. “I know, right? That’s why I call them The Pantheon.”

Gary stiffened.

She named them.

She actually named them.

The Pantheon.

Oh, Arceus, that was even cooler.

Gary sat back, staring at the sky in defeat. His whole journey, his whole self-image, was slowly crumbling before his eyes. He had been riding through Kanto in his fancy car with his cheerleaders, thinking he was untouchable—only to get outpaced, out-battled, and out-styled by Ashley freaking Ketchum.

The worst part?

He was jealous.

However, as much as he wanted to be annoyed, as much as his pride hated it—he couldn’t help but feel the smallest flicker of pride, too. Because Ashley, the girl he had spent years teasing, the girl he had always seen as his childhood rival and annoying little sister—was actually killing it.

Ashley—Ashley Ketchum—was out here collecting Dratini and Lapras like they were Pidgey on Route 1, earning five of the strongest badges before he even got halfway through the Challenge Eight, and casually showing it all off with zero awareness of the absolute existential crisis she was throwing him into. She was out there doing all of this without a fancy car, without rich-kid status, without even making a big deal out of it.

She was just being herself, and somehow, that was enough.

Gary exhaled through his nose, shaking his head. “Unbelievable.”

Ashley blinked. “What?”

Gary stood up, dusting himself off. “Nothing.” He smirked at her.

Luckily Gary did not need to invent some kind of excuse or lie, because Ashley stood up, stretching with a bright, carefree smile, completely oblivious to the existential crisis she had just thrown him into.

"Sorry, I gotta get going," she said, reaching down to scoop Venus into her arms, as Mercury ran circles around her yipping. "Gotta get ready for my first match! You coming to watch?"

Gary snapped out of his daze just enough to force a grin, masking the growing pit in his stomach. "Of course, wouldn’t miss it for the world. Someone’s gotta be there in case you trip over your own ego."

Ashley rolled her eyes, clearly used to his jabs, and turned to walk away. Gary watched her go, eyes lingering as she disappeared into the crowd, her long black hair swaying with every step.

Gary barely registered himself moving, his body running on autopilot as he made his way to the battle area. His mind was still reeling, drowning in the heavy realization that Ashley was ahead of him in every way that mattered. His stomach twisted as he stepped into the tournament area, Wartortle padding beside him with a calm, easygoing gait, as if completely unaware of his trainer’s inner turmoil.

The battle stage was impressive—not unexpected, considering this was a luxury cruise filled with people who probably bought their Pokémon rather than caught them themselves. The platform gleamed under the setting sun, polished and pristine, with elegant gold trim along the edges, as if that somehow made the battles fancier. Surrounding it were rows of cushioned chairs, occupied by wealthy spectators sipping on overpriced wine and munching on hors d’oeuvres that probably cost more than Gary’s entire trainer stipend.

Of course, they weren’t the ones fighting for evolutionary stones.

Gary took a seat, leaning back as he crossed his arms, eyes scanning the crowd. He wasn’t surprised by the high-class turnout. Evolutionary stones were one of the few things that bridged the gap between actual trainers and the wealthy snobs who treated Pokémon like trophies. Everyone wanted them—whether for battle, for contests, or for simply making their Pokémon look stronger without putting in the work.

He didn’t know which category the competitors here fell into, but either way, it was frustrating as hell to sit on the sidelines when he should’ve been down there. If Surge hadn’t fried half his team into uselessness, he would’ve been down there.

His fingers twitched against his arm.

He should’ve gotten that Thunder Badge on the first try. He should’ve swept Erika without needing three attempts. He should’ve been battling right now, standing on that stage instead of watching other people do what he should have been doing.

Instead, he was stuck here. Sitting. Watching.

And then, as if this tournament wasn’t already rubbing salt in his wounds, some pompous, overdressed fool took the stage.

Gary groaned the second the man opened his mouth.

“Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and valiant trainers who dare step upon this most prestigious stage!” The announcer’s voice was dripping with so much forced grandeur that Gary could physically feel his soul trying to escape his body. “Welcome to the glorious Battle Tournament of the legendary S.S. Anne! Where strength, strategy, and the indomitable spirit of competition shall determine who among you is worthy of the coveted prize!”

Gary felt secondhand embarrassment. Who talked like this?!

Around him, the rich folk clapped politely, some of them nodding in approval, others adjusting their monocles or whatever. A few younger trainers in the audience were side-eyeing the announcer in the exact same way Gary was—silently questioning how this man had the confidence to say those words out loud in public.

Wartortle let out a slow exhale, clearly bored, plopping down on his shell like he already knew this was going to take forever. Gary absentmindedly reached down to scratch the top of his head.

The announcer continued.

“We have gathered here today to witness battles beyond compare! Feats of strength, cunning, and unwavering determination!” He gestured dramatically toward the stage, his extravagant blue and gold suit shimmering under the lights. “And let us not forget—the reward for such excellence! A treasure most rare! Evolutionary stones, generously provided by our illustrious sponsors—” He made a sweeping motion toward the VIP section, where a cluster of well-dressed businesspeople nodded in smug satisfaction.

Gary rolled his eyes.

A treasure most rare? Really? This guy was acting like they were battling for the keys to the universe, not a couple of shiny rocks.

Gary sat back in his seat, arms crossed, fingers tapping idly against his bicep as the announcer droned on. It was almost impressive how this guy could take something as simple as a battle tournament and dress it up like it was some kind of grand legendary event.

“The best of the best!” the announcer declared, his voice echoing dramatically across the arena. “The top sixteen trainers, chosen through sheer grit, skill, and determination! These trainers stand before you today as the elite—the worthy! A preview of the strength to be witnessed at the Indigo Conference! Only those who have defeated the fearsome Lt. Surge have earned their place upon this hallowed battlefield!”

Gary barely refrained from snorting out loud. Yeah, sure, buddy.

More likely, there were probably a bunch of other trainers who won against Surge but couldn’t compete because their teams were still recovering from the absolute beating they took in the process. Like him.

He would bet his entire Pokédex that at least half the trainers who should have been here were sitting somewhere on this ship with their Pokémon still wrapped in bandages. He had lived it, so he knew.

But sure. Let’s pretend like this was some grand, mystical elite sixteen scenario.

The announcer continued, gesturing wildly with his hands.

“The first round shall test the raw strength and strategy of our competitors in a one-on-one showdown! The second round will push their teamwork to the limit with two-vs-two battles! In the semifinals and grand finals, only the most capable will advance, proving their worth in a three-vs-three battle!”

Gary fought the urge to groan into his hands.

Just start the damn battles already!

Mercifully, the crowd erupted into cheers as the announcer finally wrapped it up, raising his arms like he was personally bestowing divine blessings upon the tournament.

“LET THE BATTLES… BEGIN!”

A gong—a literal gong—echoed through the stadium.

Gary stared blankly. Where did they even get a gong?

The first pair of trainers took the stage, and with that, the tournament finally began.

Gary leaned forward, watching with detached interest as the first two competitors released their Pokémon. The battle was… decent. It wasn’t anything special, but he supposed it wasn’t bad.

The second battle followed. Then the third. Then the fourth.

One by one, the tournament rolled forward. Some battles were good, some were absolute train wrecks, but none of them really had Gary sitting on the edge of his seat. His Wartortle seemed even less interested, now completely sprawled on his back, arms and legs spread out in what Gary could only assume was a maximum comfort pose.

And then he saw it.

The bracket on the screen flashed to life, displaying the current progress.

And there, right at the very bottom, was Ashley’s name.

Gary felt a rush of amusement at the irony. Of course she was the last match of the first round.

Of course, the universe decided to make him sit through seven entire battles before she got her turn.

It was just so on-brand for her.

She probably didn’t even realize it.

Gary shook his head, smirking despite himself. He had no doubt she was going to wipe the floor with whoever she was facing. Gramps had already warned him.

“She’s different this time,” his grandfather had said when Gary last called home. “She’s learning from some of Kanto’s best. And she’s got a real team now, Gary. Not just Pokémon. A team. She’s catching up. Fast.”

Gary had scoffed at the time, brushing it off, but now?

Watching these battles, seeing the names flash by on the brackets, knowing exactly who was still waiting in the wings?

Yeah.

Ashley was probably about to make these trainers look like they just walked out of Pokémon Tech.

He just hoped, for everyone else’s sake, that the announcer didn’t have another speech lined up before her match.

He wasn’t sure he could handle another one of those.

Luckily, Ashley strode confidently onto the stage, without any speech from the pompous announcer. Across from her, her opponent from Sinnoh approached with a steady stride, a confident smirk on his face. The battlefield gleamed under the bright lights, the polished surface reflecting the excitement in the air. The crowd hushed, anticipation hanging thick.

Both trainers reached their designated spots, locking eyes in silent understanding. No words needed to be exchanged—this was a battle, and both sides were ready to give it their all.

The referee raised his flags. "Trainers, release your Pokémon!"

In perfect synchronization, Ashley and the Sinnoh trainer tossed their Poké Balls into the air.

"Mercury, let's go!"

"Elekid, time to shine!"

Twin flashes of light erupted on the field, materializing into two small yet formidable battlers. Elekid’s arms crackled with electricity as he shifted into a stance, his fierce eyes locked onto his opponent. Mercury, on the other hand, looked downright giddy, bouncing on his paws like he’d just been promised an all-you-can-eat Poké Puff buffet.

Gary, watching from the stands, leaned forward with interest. He expected an immediate clash, but Ashley had other plans.

"Double Team!"

In an instant, multiple copies of Mercury flickered into existence, surrounding Elekid from all sides. The little Electric-type glanced around, fists sparking as he tried to pinpoint the real one.

"Elekid, Discharge!"

A surge of golden electricity burst outward, zapping every single Mercury on the battlefield. The illusions vanished in a blink, and the real Mercury skidded back, shaking off the residual sparks that danced across his fur.

"Not bad," Ashley called out with a grin. "But you’re gonna have to do better than that if you wanna keep up with my little speed demon! Quick Attack!"

In a flash, he slammed his entire body into Elekid’s side with a Quick Attack of his own, the force sending the Electric-type skidding backward, his heels digging into the battle stage as he barely managed to stop himself from tumbling over.

The Sinnoh trainer gritted his teeth. "Counter with Thunder Punch!"

Elekid recovered fast, sparks flying from his fist as he swung at the retreating Eevee. But Mercury was already gone, his Substitute taking the hit instead.

Ashley grinned. "Sand Attack!"

Mercury kicked up a flurry of dust right into Elekid’s eyes. The Electric-type stumbled back, furiously rubbing at his face as his trainer shouted, "Shake it off! Use Swift!"

Stars shot out in every direction, homing in on Mercury. There was no dodging that one. Ashley didn’t even try.

"Substitute!"

Another Mercury flickered into existence just before the attack landed, taking the hit and dispersing into nothingness. The real Mercury became a streak through the battle stage, his tiny paws barely making contact with the stage before he was gone again, dashing at impossible angles, vanishing and reappearing like a mirage. Elekid wasn’t just standing there, either. The Electric-type was a blur of yellow and black, trying to match Mercury’s speed with rapid footwork, his fists sparking as he spun, searching for an opening. But every time Elekid lunged to counter, Mercury twisted away at the last second, slipping past his attacks with playful ease.

The two Pokémon turned the battlefield into a whirlwind of motion, a game of high-speed cat and mouse with neither willing to slow down. Elekid growled in frustration, his arms windmilling as he launched into a Quick Attack, aiming to catch Mercury mid-dash. But Mercury, cheeky as ever, let Elekid get close—just close enough to think he had a chance—before pulling off a sharp pivot at the last possible second.

From the stands, Gary leaned forward, eyes locked on the battle. He wasn’t just impressed—he was genuinely fascinated. Mercury wasn’t just matching Elekid’s speed, he was outmaneuvering him. That wasn’t just raw speed, that was instinct, control, and an almost playful level of precision. Most Normal-types would struggle to keep up with an Electric-type’s agility, but Mercury was making it look effortless.

Surprising everybody, Elekid was the first to get tired. He wobbled on his feet, his breath coming in short, sharp pants, while Mercury was still bouncing in place, his tail flicking excitedly. Ashley couldn't help but laugh as her little Eevee yipped, eyes still bright with energy, ready to go another ten rounds if needed. The little monster had barely broken a sweat!

Gary shook his head in disbelief from his seat, a grin tugging at his lips. Those two match each other too well—two little kids hyped up on sugar! He found himself laughing along with them, entertained despite himself. It was like watching an unstoppable force of chaotic energy crash into the battlefield, and there was no stopping it.

The Sinnoh trainer clenched his fists, desperation flashing in his eyes. "Elekid, Discharge! Full power!"

Electricity erupted from Elekid in a final, desperate bid to land a hit, golden lightning crackling wildly across the battlefield.

Ashley’s eyes sharpened. "Dig!"

Mercury dove into the ground just before the electricity hit, completely avoiding the attack. The Sinnoh trainer’s eyes widened.

"Get out of there, Elekid!"

Too late.

Mercury erupted from the earth beneath Elekid, slamming into his chin with enough force to send him airborne. Elekid hit the ground hard, struggling to push himself back up—but his little arms shook, and then he collapsed with a groan.

The referee raised a flag. "Elekid is unable to battle! The winner is Ashley Ketchum!"

The crowd erupted in cheers as the referee signaled Elekid’s defeat. Ashley pumped her fist in victory, her grin wide and triumphant as Mercury bounced around the battlefield, yipping excitedly. The little Eevee was still buzzing with energy, like the battle had only just started for him.

Gary leaned back in his seat, shaking his head with an amused smirk. Yeah, that tracks. The way Mercury and Elekid had zipped around the battlefield like two over-caffeinated Pidgeys had been exhausting to watch. But somehow, the Eevee still had energy left in the tank.

Ashley strode forward to kneel down beside Mercury, ruffling his fur affectionately. “You little speedster, that was awesome! You dominated that match!”

Mercury purred at the praise, his tail wagging as he nuzzled into Ashley’s touch.

On the other side of the field, the Sinnoh trainer sighed as he recalled Elekid, rubbing the back of his neck before giving Ashley a sheepish grin. “Man, I thought for sure my Elekid could outspeed an Eevee. Guess I was wrong!”

Ashley laughed, standing back up and tossing her hair over her shoulder. “Mercury’s a little monster when it comes to speed training. He just loves running circles around everyone.” She gave Mercury a teasing look. “And showing off.”

Mercury yipped proudly, puffing out his chest.

Gary snorted. Yeah, he’s definitely going to be a Jolteon. The way Mercury moved, the way he thrived in a speed battle, it was obvious. He had Jolteon written all over him.

The announcer’s voice boomed through the speakers, hyping up Ashley’s victory as her name lit up on the tournament brackets. “And with that electrifying performance, Ashley Ketchum moves on to the next round! What an impressive showing of speed and strategy!”

Ashley gave a dramatic bow, Mercury mimicking her with an exaggerated stretch, his fluffy tail flicking in the air. The crowd chuckled at the little show-off, and even the Sinnoh trainer laughed as he waved her off. As Ashley walked off the stage, Gary could see her scanning the stands, her eyes searching. When they landed on him, she lit up, waving enthusiastically.

Gary smirked, shaking his head as he lifted his juice in a mock toast. “Not bad, Ashy-girl,” he muttered under his breath. “Not bad at all.”

Wartortle, who had been watching from the side with lazy interest, gave a slow nod of approval before rolling onto his back again.

As the next trainers took the stage, Gary crossed his arms. Ashley had taken her first win easily. And if that was any indication of what was coming next… This whole tournament might as well have already been hers.

Gary leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, Wartortle sitting beside him with a relaxed expression as they watched the quarterfinals unfold. Unlike some of the earlier battles, which had been predictable or flat-out boring, these matchups actually had some bite to them. Trainers were forced to think on their feet, balancing offense and defense while strategizing what Pokémon to use first and which one to have as backup. Some had a natural rhythm to their battling, their partners working seamlessly together, while others fumbled under the pressure, their strategies falling apart the moment their Pokémon got overwhelmed.

But then—

The announcer’s voice boomed through the tournament area, his tone shifting to something more energetic. "And now, ladies and gentlemen, the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The final match of the quarterfinals is about to begin!"

The crowd, which had been lively but tame, suddenly erupted into a frenzy of cheers, as the energy spiked. Gary raised an eyebrow, not surprised in the least. Of course, they’ve been waiting for this one.

A figure stepped onto the battlefield, her movements confident, purposeful.

Ashley Ketchum had arrived.

She walked with an easy grace, her long black hair tied in a high ponytail. A smirk played at the edge of her lips as she took her position on one side of the battle stage. Her stance was relaxed, but there was an undeniable energy around her—a battle-readiness that made even seasoned trainers take notice.

On the other side, her opponent stepped onto the stage. A girl from Johto, tall with a sleek, confident air about her. She adjusted the brim of her cap and gave Ashley a measured look before flashing a competitive grin.

"Guess I better make this one count," the Johto girl called out.

Ashley chuckled, rolling her shoulders as the referee raised his hand. "Same here."

Gary leaned forward, arms resting on his knees. Alright, Ash. Let’s see what you’ve got this time.

The stadium held its breath as Ashley reached for her Poké Ball. She didn’t hesitate—she already knew who she was sending in. With a swift flick of her wrist, the Poké Ball arced through the air, bursting open in a flash of light. The crowd gasped in unison as the light faded, revealing the long, serpentine form of Apollo, her Dratini.

The reaction was immediate. Whispers spread through the audience like wildfire.

“A Dratini? No way!”
“That’s the Mirage Pokémon!”
“Man, I wish I had my camera out!”

Ashley smirked at the familiar reaction, but her focus remained on the battle. Across from her, the Johto girl lifted her own Poké Ball, her expression tightening for a split second before she tossed it forward. "Let’s go, Bayleef!"

With a bright flash, a sturdy-looking Bayleef landed on the battlefield, shaking her leaf-tipped head with a determined cry. She immediately planted her feet, the large leaf around her neck flaring slightly as if she were already preparing for a fight.

The referee raised his hand. "Trainers, ready?"

Ashley rolled her shoulders, a smirk playing on her lips. "Always."

Her opponent nodded, adjusting her cap with a confident tilt of her chin. "Let’s do this."

The referee’s hand dropped. "Begin!"

“Razor Leaf!” the Johto trainer commanded.

Bayleef swung her head sharply, sending a flurry of spinning, razor-sharp leaves flying through the air. They cut through the battlefield at a rapid pace, glinting under the lights like tiny blades.

“Double Team!” Ashley countered.

In the blink of an eye, Apollo’s form split into several identical copies, all of them weaving through the air in different directions. The Razor Leaf barrage tore through some of the illusions, but the real Apollo remained untouched, slithering across the battlefield with an almost playful ease.

“Nice try,” Ashley called out, her grin widening. “Let’s see how you handle Twister!”

Apollo’s body curled as the air around him twisted violently. A powerful vortex of wind and draconic energy roared to life, spiraling forward like a living storm. It surged toward Bayleef, kicking up debris as it barreled down on her.

“Reflect!”

Bayleef’s eyes glowed as a shimmering golden barrier formed in front of her just in time to absorb the brunt of the Twister’s impact. The wind howled as the attack dispersed, leaving Bayleef with only minor scuffs.

Ashley clicked her tongue. That defense is annoying.

The Johto trainer smirked. “Not so easy, huh? Now, Body Slam!”

Bayleef charged forward with surprising speed, using her weight to try and crush Apollo beneath her bulk.

“Substitute!”

Just before impact, Apollo’s body flickered. Bayleef slammed down with full force, but the Dratini beneath her vanished in a puff of smoke—only a decoy remained. The real Apollo slithered out of the way, his body coiled tightly in preparation for the next strike.

Ashley saw her opening. “Twister again—full force!”

Apollo reared back and unleashed another roaring vortex of wind and energy. This time, the Reflect barrier had faded, and the full brunt of the attack sent Bayleef tumbling backward. She skidded across the battlefield but dug her feet into the ground, shaking her head to clear her focus.

The Johto trainer clenched her fists. “We’re not done yet! Sunny Day!”

Bayleef’s leaf glowed with a warm golden hue, sending a beam of light into the sky. Instantly, the battlefield was bathed in an intense, golden glow. The air grew warmer, and the sunlight intensified, amplifying Bayleef’s natural affinity for the sun.

Ashley smirked. “Oh, thanks for that. I needed a boost.”

The Johto trainer blinked, then her expression shifted into panic. “Wait—”

“Fire Blast!” Ashley commanded.

Apollo slithered upward, his body coiling elegantly before he let out a roar of energy. Flames gathered in front of him, forming a massive kanji-shaped inferno that surged across the battlefield like a raging dragon.

The Fire Blast crashed into Bayleef with devastating force. The heat from the sun-enhanced flames was overwhelming, and Bayleef let out a sharp cry as she was thrown backward, tumbling across the battlefield. When the flames died down, she was still standing—barely. Her legs wobbled, her body scorched, but she refused to go down.

“Giga Drain!”

Bayleef’s body pulsed with green light as tendrils of energy shot toward Apollo, sapping his strength, aiming to recover her own. Apollo growled as he felt his energy slowly drain, he struggled against it. But when everything seemed to be impossible… it happened.

The entire stadium seemed to hold its breath as Apollo’s body became engulfed in a brilliant, almost blinding light. The glow pulsed outward in waves, sending flickering reflections across the battlefield as if the very air was charged with power. Every eye was locked onto the radiant cocoon, anticipation thick enough to cut with a knife. The crowd, which had been rowdy moments before, fell into a stunned silence.

Gary felt his fingers tighten around the armrest of his seat. He had seen evolutions before—heck, he had plenty of evolutions under his belt—but this was different. This was a Dratini, a Pokémon that most trainers would be lucky to see once in their lifetime, let alone own. A species whispered about in myths and old Kanto folk tales, creatures that were said to be messengers of the gods. And Ashley—Ashley—had one. And it was evolving. Right in front of his eyes.

The glowing silhouette of Apollo stretched and expanded, his once small, serpent-like frame elongating, refining, becoming something grander. His elegant shape took form, his soft blue hue intensifying, deepening. The delicate white fin on his forehead sharpened into a more defined crest, while two stunning wing-like appendages sprouted from either side of his head, gleaming like liquid silver in the contest lights. His pearl-like orbs, once small and subtle, now shimmered boldly along his slender body, crackling softly with barely contained energy.

And then, the light faded.

Apollo hovered effortlessly in midair, his newly evolved form exuding a presence unlike anything before. His body was no longer just sleek—it was regal. A creature of legends, right there on the battlefield. He coiled in place, his long, sinuous form undulating slightly as if adjusting to his newfound power. The very air around him seemed to shift, carrying a faint charge that sent shivers down the spine of anyone close enough to feel it.

Gary’s jaw tightened as an involuntary chill ran down his arms. Holy Distortion World!

Gary felt something deeply conflicting bubbling inside him. Envy. A sharp, bitter thing at the pit of his stomach, whispering that Ashley was growing far beyond him, that she was surpassing expectations he hadn’t even considered. But at the same time—pride. Immense pride. Because Gary had never seen a trainer—rookie or veteran—command the battlefield like his little sister did.

The crowd began to stir, murmurs turning into exclamations of shock, admiration, and sheer disbelief. Gary could hear snippets of excited chatter—

"Did you see that? That’s a Dragonair! I’ve never seen one evolve in battle!"
"That’s gotta be the rarest Pokémon in the entire tournament!"
"No way she’s a rookie—there’s no way!"

Ashley could barely process what had happened, but Apollo didn’t hesitate. His instincts took over. Apollo let out a haunting, high-pitched frequency that reverberated through the battlefield. Gary realized at once what that move was. Supersonic! Bayleef staggered, her eyes swirling as she became disoriented from the attack.

Ashley saw her chance. “Finish it—Fire Blast!”

One last kanji-shaped inferno erupted from Apollo’s mouth, racing across the field like a dragon’s fury. Bayleef, too dazed to dodge, took the full impact head-on. The explosion of heat and fire rocked the stadium.

When the flames cleared, Bayleef collapsed, her trainer biting her lip as she quickly recalled her fallen Pokémon.

The referee raised his flag. “Bayleef is unable to battle!”

The Johto girl didn’t even flinch as she recalled her fainted Bayleef, her expression unreadable as she reached for her next Poké Ball. The crowd was still abuzz from Apollo’s evolution, murmurs of admiration and excitement running wild through the stands. But Gary, watching closely, felt his stomach drop the moment the girl threw her Poké Ball into the air.

With a burst of light, a Wigglytuff landed on the battlefield.

Gary clenched his jaw. A Fairy-type. Just Ashley’s luck.

He saw the moment Ashley realized it too—her lips pressing together in a sharp line, her hand already moving to recall Apollo. Smart move. Dragons stood no chance against Fairy-types. Even if Apollo had just evolved and was riding the high of newfound power, this was an unnecessary risk. He had done his job. He didn’t need to stay out there.

But before she could even call for a switch, Apollo roared.

The sound was deep, commanding, sending vibrations through the battlefield. His sleek body coiled, his wings flaring slightly at the sides of his head. His silver-blue eyes locked onto Wigglytuff, his gaze burning with challenge.

Ashley hesitated, staring at her partner. "Apollo, are you sure?" she asked, voice steady but cautious.

Another roar in response. No hesitation. No fear.

Gary groaned, dragging a hand down his face. "She’s really about to pit a Dragon against a Fairy," he muttered under his breath. Had Ashley lost it? Sure, Apollo was strong—incredible, even. But the type disadvantage was brutal. If Wigglytuff landed even one Fairy-type move, Apollo was toast.

Ashley took a breath, then nodded. "Alright, let’s do this."

The Johto girl smirked, crossing her arms. "Bad call," she said, rolling her shoulders. "Wigglytuff, let’s—"

The referee’s whistle barely left his lips before Apollo moved.

Without waiting for a command, Apollo whipped his long body in a powerful Twister, the spiraling wind kicking up debris and whipping through the battlefield. But this wasn’t just any Twister. Apollo’s control over the attack had sharpened—he didn’t need its Dragon-type energy right now. What he needed was the hurricane itself.

As the Twister roared to life, Apollo’s sleek form weaved through it, his fangs glowing faintly as he spewed a thick Toxic into the swirling vortex.

Gary’s eyes widened. No way.

The wind carried the poisonous mist, spinning it into a venomous hurricane, trapping Wigglytuff in its swirling grasp. The moment the pink Pokémon inhaled—bam. Poisoned.

The Johto girl’s confident smirk faltered.

Ashley, meanwhile, grinned like a maniac. "Nice thinking, Apollo! Now, Iron Tail!"

Apollo whipped his tail forward, the metallic sheen blazing silver as he crashed it down onto Wigglytuff.

Then he did it again.

And again.

Wigglytuff, still dizzy from the spinning storm, tried to counter with a desperate Dazzling Gleam, but Apollo was already moving. The glow from the Fairy attack barely flared before his Iron Tail slammed into her side once more, sending Wigglytuff bouncing across the field.

Gary sat up straighter, his heart pounding. Holy hell, he’s steamrolling her.

Apollo wasn’t just attacking—he was strategizing. The Toxic-Twister was genius, spreading the poison and keeping Wigglytuff on the defensive. And Iron Tail? Not only did it keep Apollo protected from the poison, but it was also a move from one of the only two types in existence that could counter Fairy-types.

And Ashley—whether she had planned this or was rolling with Apollo’s instincts—was using it to perfection.

The Johto girl gritted her teeth. "Wigglytuff, use Rest!"

Ashley’s eyes sharpened. "Intercept it! Fire Blast!"

Apollo reared back—and then, with a flick of his tail, unleashed a roaring inferno straight into the dazed Wigglytuff before she could even think about sleeping off the poison.

The blast landed, engulfing Wigglytuff in a swirling blaze of fire. When the flames cleared, she was still standing—but only just. The poison from Toxic was still eating away at her, and her pink fur was scorched from the Fire Blast.

One more hit.

Ashley saw it. Apollo saw it.

"Wigglytuff—" the Johto girl started.

"Apollo, finish it with Iron Tail!"

With one final, brutal strike, Apollo’s glowing tail slammed into Wigglytuff’s side. The Normal-Fairy Pokémon let out a dazed oof before collapsing onto the battlefield.

Silence.

Then—

"WIGGLYTUFF IS UNABLE TO BATTLE!" The referee’s voice rang through the tournament area. "DRAGONAIR WINS!"

The stadium erupted.

Gary let out a breath he hadn’t even realized he’d been holding. The entire crowd was on its feet, roaring their excitement, unable to believe what they’d just witnessed.

Apollo—the newly evolved Dragonair—had just crushed a Fairy-type.

Gary ran a hand through his hair, letting out a low whistle. "Holy shit, Ashley," he muttered, shaking his head. "That was insane."

And just like that, Ashley Ketchum advanced to the semifinals.

Chapter Text

Ashley sat on the cushioned bench of the S.S. Anne’s healing center, idly tapping her fingers against her knee as she waited. The tournament was on a break between the quarterfinals and the semifinals, giving trainers just an hour to rest, strategize, and, most importantly, get their Pokémon healed up. And after that absolute brawl of a match, Apollo deserved nothing less than the best care possible.

She exhaled, leaning back against the wall, her mind still running over everything that had happened. Apollo had evolved. That alone was still sinking in. The sleek, elegant Dragonair that had emerged from that glow was an entirely new presence—a larger, more powerful force than the small Dratini who once coiled around her like a living scarf. And while Ashley trusted him, she couldn't shake the small knot of worry in her stomach. Had the battle and sudden evolution put too much strain on him?

Her knee bounced anxiously as she glanced toward the closed door of the medical ward. Come on, Nurse Joy, give me some good news.

As if on cue, the door slid open with a soft hiss, and Nurse Joy stepped out with a warm smile, her Chansey following behind. But the real relief came when Ashley saw Apollo slithering behind them, his long, elegant body moving smoothly across the floor. His blue scales gleamed under the clinic’s bright lights, his pearl-like orbs shimmering as he moved. His expression was calm—no signs of fatigue, no sluggishness, just the same intelligent gleam in his eyes.

Ashley barely had time to sigh in relief before Apollo launched himself forward and wrapped around her torso in a loose coil.

"Hey—whoa!" Ashley laughed, stumbling back slightly from the sudden weight of him. Apollo, despite his newfound size, still tried to act like the tiny Dratini that could curl up around her neck. He pouted, nuzzling into her cheek, clearly irritated.

Ashley blinked before realization hit her like a Thunderbolt. "Oh, my Arceus. You’re mad that you can’t sit on my shoulders anymore."

Apollo let out a long, grumbling trill, his head flopping against her shoulder in the most exaggerated display of suffering she’d ever seen.

Gary—who had apparently shown up to check on her after the match results—stood a few feet away, arms crossed, eyebrows raised. "Are you serious?" he deadpanned. "You evolve into a freakin' Dragonair, one of the coolest Pokémon in existence, and you're mad because you're too big to be a scarf now?"

Apollo shot him a haughty look, flicking his tail dismissively before winding himself more securely around Ashley’s waist.

Ashley couldn’t help it—she lost it. Doubling over, she clutched Apollo’s smooth body as laughter shook her shoulders. "I—oh man, I can’t—Apollo, you drama queen!" She wiped at the corner of her eye, still chuckling. "This is the crisis we’re dealing with? Not the fact that you went toe-to-toe with a Fairy-type? Not the fact that you unlocked Supersonic as an egg move? No, the real issue here is that you can’t hitch a ride on my shoulders anymore?!"

Apollo gave an indignant huff and turned his head away, nose pointed skyward.

Gary shook his head, snickering. "Unbelievable. You and your Pokémon are all weird."

Ashley shot him a grin, still breathless. "Takes one to know one, Oak."

Nurse Joy, who had been watching the entire interaction with amused fondness, finally stepped forward. "Apollo is in perfect condition," she reassured Ashley. "There was no strain from the evolution, and his stamina is exceptional for a newly evolved Pokémon. Whatever training you’ve been doing with him, it’s clearly working."

Ashley beamed, reaching up to rub under Apollo’s chin, earning a pleased coo from the dragon. "That’s my boy," she said proudly. "You did amazing out there."

Apollo rumbled in satisfaction, his tail swishing slightly as he nuzzled against her again.

"You should be proud," Nurse Joy added with a smile. "Dragonair are incredibly rare, and for him to evolve during a battle—well, that’s something special."

Gary let out a low whistle. "Yeah, no kidding. The crowd lost their minds when he evolved. Even I was impressed, and I don’t impress easily."

Ashley rolled her eyes at the obvious flex, but the warmth in her chest grew. She was proud—of Apollo, of how far they’d come, of the entire Pantheon. But she couldn’t get too caught up in the moment.

Gary leaned back against the wall, arms crossed, watching Ashley fuss over Apollo as the Dragonair draped himself around her torso like a sash that was far too big for its wearer. He smirked. "Y'know, with a Dragonair on your team now, the rest of this tournament’s gonna be a total breeze for you."

Ashley shot him an amused glance, shaking her head. "No way. Apollo’s sitting this one out."

Gary blinked, caught off guard. "What? Seriously?" He pushed himself off the wall, looking at her like she had just declared she was planning to challenge the Elite Four blindfolded. "Why?"

Ashley sighed, reaching up to scratch under Apollo’s chin, which earned another pleased little coo from the dragon. "Because he just evolved, Gary. You saw how wild he was in that last battle—he charged in without waiting for my commands. If I keep using him without proper training, he’s gonna get reckless and hurt himself." She ran a hand along Apollo’s now much longer body, feeling the shift in his muscles. "He needs time to adjust to his new size and power before I throw him into another fight."

Gary studied her for a moment, then let out a short chuckle, shaking his head. "Huh. Look at you, Ketchum. Thinking ahead, strategizing. Actually taking your time instead of just jumping headfirst into battle like a reckless idiot."

Ashley rolled her eyes. "I never jump headfirst into battle like a reckless idiot."

Gary gave her a look. "Saffron Gym."

Ashley groaned. "Okay, one time."

"Seafoam Islands."

"That doesn’t count!"

"Literally every time you train with Koga."

"Okay, fine!" Ashley huffed, throwing her hands up before crossing them over her chest. "Maybe I used to jump into things without thinking, but I’m not doing it this time. Apollo’s safety comes first. How did you even know about all of that?!"

“The moment the quarterfinals were over I called Gramps so he could catch me up with all of your adventures,” Gary’s smirk softened into something more genuine. "You’ve grown a lot, y'know," he said, his voice lacking its usual teasing edge.

Ashley blinked at him, caught off guard by the sudden sincerity. She averted her gaze, rubbing the back of her neck. "Yeah, well… I had to, didn’t I?"

They stood in silence for a moment, the chatter of trainers and Pokémon in the background filling the space between them. Then, in typical Gary Oak fashion, he ruined the moment. "Still, would’ve been hilarious if he had turned into a disobedient nightmare. Imagine you trying to boss around a dragon that just straight-up ignores you."

Ashley groaned dramatically. "Oh, Arceus, don’t even joke about that." She glanced down at Apollo, who tilted his head at her, clearly unaware of the terror he could have become. "I barely got through Mars’ rebellious streak when I tried to force him into contests—I do not need a giant flying dragon giving me attitude."

"That would’ve been a nightmare! Can you picture it? You’d be up there, trying to make some grand commanding gesture, and Apollo would just… fly off and do whatever he wants." Gary barked out a laugh, making Ashley wince. Gary then tilted his head as he realized what Ashley had said. “Wait… contests? Miss Battle Junkie is also a coordinator?”

Ashley ignored Gary’s last question as she turned to look at her beloved dragon. "Yeah. No thanks." She gave Apollo another affectionate pat. "I’m so glad his little ‘ignore Ashley’s commands’ stunt was just adrenaline. Otherwise, I’d be doomed."

Apollo flicked his tail, puffing up in what was probably supposed to be an indignant response, but it only made Ashley laugh. Gary snorted. "Well, at least you don’t have to deal with that. Still, sucks that you’re benching him—would’ve been cool to see him wreck the competition."

Ashley shrugged, shifting Apollo’s weight around her shoulders. "I’ve got other Pokémon, Gary. This isn’t a one-mon show. Besides," she grinned, "if I can’t win this tournament without Apollo, then I don’t deserve to win it."

Gary raised a brow, giving her a lazy smirk. "Wow. Bold words, Ketchum. Hope you don’t eat 'em later."

"Not a chance." Ashley grinned back. "Alright," she said, straightening up and adjusting Apollo’s position so he wasn’t completely restricting her ability to move, before recalling him into his Poke Ball. "It’s time for the semifinals."

Gary smirked, stepping aside to let her pass. "Just don’t wipe the floor with them too hard, Ketchum. You’re making the rest of us look bad."

Ashley threw him a wink over her shoulder. "No promises."

And with that, she strode toward the next stage of the tournament, Gary watched her go, shaking his head with a small smirk. "Hmph. Annoying little sister or not… she's definitely gonna win this thing."

Ashley stepped onto the stage, her confidence practically radiating off her. The buzz of the crowd filled the air, excitement building as the semi-finals kicked off. Across from her stood her opponent, a girl from Celadon City, who looked as poised and graceful as a traditional dancer. She was dressed in a stunning kimono—deep emerald with delicate golden embroidery resembling leaves in the wind. The way she held herself, the smoothness of her movements, everything about her screamed elegance.

Ashley, meanwhile, was… well, Ashley.

Her mind wandered immediately. That kimono—where did she get it?! If Ashley was going to make it to the Grand Festival, she was definitely going to need something as grand as that. Maybe something in deep blue with gold accents? Or maybe black and red to match Mars? Oh! Or maybe—

She was snapped out of her mental fashion spree when the referee raised a hand and announced, “The first semi-final match will now begin! Trainers, release your Pokémon!”

Ashley fumbled with her Poké Ball, nearly dropping it as she scrambled to return her focus to the actual battle.

Right. Battle first, kimonos later.

With a flick of her wrist, she released Vulcan onto the battlefield. The Growlithe landed on all fours, tail wagging slightly as his deep amber eyes locked onto his opponent. Ashley had thought long and hard about her choice—Vulcan was the best pick for this battle. He was resilient, eager, and, more than anything, she wanted her puppy to feel like a winner again after his loss against Surge. And if there was one thing she knew about Vulcan, it was that he always bounced back stronger.

Her opponent, calm and collected, pulled out her own Poké Ball and released Tangrowth.

Ashley’s eyes widened slightly as the massive Grass-type landed with a soft thud, her long vine-like appendages shifting and curling around her body. The living mass of vines swayed slightly, her red eyes peering out from within her tangled form.

Ashley grinned, her blood pumping in excitement. She had taken down Erika’s Tangela back in Celadon—this was like a rematch, but supercharged. This Tangrowth would be stronger, faster, and way trickier than her pre-evolved form. And that was exactly what Ashley wanted.

She met her opponent’s gaze, both trainers sizing each other up, determination burning in their eyes.

This was going to be fun.

The referee raised his flags, voice ringing through the stadium. “Let the battle begin!”

The moment the referee’s flag dropped, the battle erupted into motion.

“Tangrowth, use Ancient Power!” The Celadon girl’s voice was calm and steady, like she was calling out dance moves rather than commands.

Ashley grinned, eyes gleaming with excitement. “Vulcan, Double Team—then Fire Spin!”

Tangrowth wasted no time, summoning shimmering boulders from thin air, her vines glowing as she launched them at Vulcan with frightening precision. But before they could land, Vulcan had already blurred into motion, splitting into multiple mirage-like copies, each one darting in a different direction. The rocks crashed into the illusions, shattering harmlessly against the ground.

Vulcan, the real one, had already moved, his fangs bared in a fierce grin as he skidded to a stop a few feet away from Tangrowth. With a sharp bark, he unleashed a spiraling cyclone of Fire Spin, trapping Tangrowth in a swirling inferno.

Ashley watched closely, eyes narrowing as she saw her opponent’s expression remain unfazed. That was a red flag.

“Tangrowth, use Leech Seed.”

Ashley’s heart skipped a beat. “Vulcan, get back!”

But the Celadon girl, Eva if Ashley recalled correctly, had timed it perfectly. Just as Vulcan leapt backward, a flurry of glowing seeds shot out from within the flames, bypassing the fire vortex and latching onto Vulcan’s fur. The seeds sprouted almost instantly, glowing vines wrapping around Vulcan’s legs and sapping his energy.

Ashley gritted her teeth. Great.

“Vulcan, Iron Tail—break them off!”

Vulcan twisted mid-air, his tail gleaming silver as he brought it down against the vines with a sharp crack. The vines snapped, freeing him before they could drain too much of his stamina. He landed with a grunt, shaking his fur out, clearly annoyed.

Ashley shot a look at her opponent, who was still unnervingly calm. The girl gave a small, knowing smile. Ashley clicked her tongue. “Vulcan—Sunny Day!”

Vulcan barked, bounding backward as he released a pulse of heat into the air. The cruise seemed to glow brighter, bathing the battle stage in golden warmth. The Fire Spin trapping Tangrowth intensified, the flames flaring up under the amplified sunlight.

But still, her opponent didn’t flinch.

“Tangrowth, Synthesis.”

Ashley’s eyes widened as Tangrowth absorbed the sunlight like a sponge, her body glowing with a soft, verdant light. The burns on her vines began to heal almost instantly.

Ashley groaned. Of course! Blaine had warned me of this! Weather moves could be used equally by both parties!

Vulcan let out a small growl, ears flattening. He had been expecting this fight to be fast-paced, but Tangrowth was like a living wall. And worse—she was recovering faster than he could chip away at her.

Ashley crossed her arms, tapping her foot as she quickly ran through her options. She had two choices: go all in for an overwhelming attack or slowly whittle her down before she could recover again.

Yeah. No contest.

“Vulcan, Fire Blast—full power!”

Vulcan barked before slamming his paws onto the ground. Vulcan sucked in a deep breath, eyes flashing. A massive Fire Blast erupted from his maw, shaping itself into a five-pronged inferno as it roared toward Tangrowth.

Eva’s eyes flickered with something—respect, maybe?—before she called, “Tangrowth, Power Whip!”

From within the raging Fire Spin, Tangrowth’s thick vines shot out, slicing through the air with staggering force. They cracked like whips, colliding with the Fire Blast head-on.

For a moment, it looked like they might cancel each other out.

Then the fire exploded.

The sheer force of the heat swallowed Tangrowth whole, blasting the massive Grass-type backward. She crashed against the battlefield with a heavy thud, smoke rising from her scorched vines.

Ashley held her breath, watching.

A beat of silence.

Then the referee raised a flag. “Tangrowth is unable to battle! The winner of this round is Ashley and her Growlithe!”

The crowd erupted into cheers, but Ashley wasn’t celebrating just yet.

She glanced at Vulcan, who was standing tall, chest heaving with exhaustion. His legs wobbled just slightly—he had pushed himself hard, and even though he won, Ashley knew she’d have to recall him.

She pulled out his Poké Ball with a proud smile. “You did great, bud. Take a break.” With a flick of her wrist, the red beam of light pulled Vulcan back in.

She exhaled, rolling her shoulders. One down. Two to go.

Her opponent silently recalled Tangrowth, then met Ashley’s gaze with a small, confident smile. “I was hoping you’d give me a challenge.”

Ashley grinned, tilting her head. “Oh, don’t worry—I’m just getting started.” She picked out her next Poke Ball and released it. “Chione, you are up next!”

From the bright light a fluffy Alolan Vulpix landed in the middle of the battle stage. Her white fur had the crowd gasping in awe and confusion. The murmurs in the audience grew louder as more people processed what they were seeing.

“Is that really a Vulpix?”
“I thought they were supposed to be orange?”
“She’s so… white and fluffy! Looks like a little snowball!”
“What did she mean by regional variant?”

Even the referee seemed intrigued, though he wisely remained neutral, waiting for the battle to continue.

Eva smiled as she adjusted her grip on her Poké Ball, nodding in appreciation. “I’ve heard about regional forms before, but I’ve never seen one up close. Your Vulpix is stunning.”

Ashley smirked, crossing her arms as Chione sat elegantly at her feet, fluffy tail curling around her dainty paws. “She knows it too. Believe me.”

Eva chuckled at that, tilting her head curiously. “And she’s a different type than the usual Fire-type Vulpix?”

Ashley tapped her chin, eyes gleaming mischievously. “Maaaybe.”

Eva raised an eyebrow, amused. “And you’re not going to tell me, are you?”

Ashley shrugged dramatically, shifting her weight to one side. “Where’s the fun in that? You’ll figure it out soon enough.”

Eva let out a good-natured laugh. “Alright, alright, I see how it is. Guess I’ll just have to find out the hard way.” She spun her Poké Ball between her fingers before giving a short toss. “Parasect, let’s do this!”

With a flash of light, a large bug-like Pokémon emerged, standing on his six spindly legs. The massive mushroom on his back pulsed ominously, his beady eyes glowing beneath the shadow of the fungal growth.

Ashley stole a glance at Chione, who was watching Parasect with an unreadable expression. The little Vulpix was still as a statue, fur bristling ever so slightly. Ashley crouched down beside her, whispering. “What do you think, girl? Feeling up for it?”

Chione flicked her ears and let out a small, confident yip before stepping forward onto the battle stage.

Eva adjusted the sleeve of her kimono, her expression thoughtful. “Parasect is a tricky opponent, I’ll warn you now. If you let your guard down, he’ll put your Vulpix to sleep before you even realize it.”

Ashley grinned, feeling excitement bubble in her chest. “Then I just won’t let my guard down, will I?”

Eva smirked back. “I like your attitude.”

The referee, sensing the renewed energy between the trainers, finally lifted their flags.

“Trainers, are you both ready?” Ashley and Eva locked eyes, nodding at the same time. “Then begin!”

The battle kicked off the moment the referee dropped their flag, and Ashley didn’t waste a second. “Chione, Double Team!” she called, her voice sharp and focused.

The little Alolan Vulpix dashed forward, her pale blue paws barely making a sound as multiple shimmering copies of herself sprang into existence around the battlefield. The illusions flickered and shifted, surrounding Parasect in an almost ghostly formation.

Eva, unfazed, merely smiled. “You’re quick, I’ll give you that. Parasect, use Stun Spore!”

Parasect’s massive mushroom pulsed ominously before he shook his body, releasing a cloud of golden spores that scattered across the field like a slow-moving mist. Ashley narrowed her eyes—Eva was smart. Stun Spore didn’t need to hit Chione directly; it would linger in the air, forcing the Vulpix to be extra careful with her movements.

Ashley smirked. “Not bad, but we’re not sticking around. Chione, Mist!”

Chione let out a soft yip before a swirling fog of icy energy burst from her body, surrounding her like a protective veil. The golden spores attempted to settle, but the Mist prevented them from taking effect, leaving the battlefield cold and shrouded in white.

Eva’s eyebrows shot up. “A counter already? You really did your homework.”

Ashley shrugged playfully. “Gotta be prepared. Chione, Powder Snow!”

From the mist, a cold wind rushed forward as Chione exhaled a flurry of shimmering snowflakes. The attack hit Parasect head-on, the icy touch making the Bug-Grass type shudder as frost clung to his legs. It wasn’t a hard hit, but it was the beginning of something much worse.

Eva’s expression didn’t waver. “Parasect, Spore!”

Ashley’s stomach clenched—this was bad. Spore wasn’t like Stun Spore or Sleep Powder. It was guaranteed to put the opponent to sleep if it landed. Before the attack could take effect, Ashley snapped her fingers. “Chione, Disable!”

Chione’s eyes flashed an eerie blue, and Parasect’s body stiffened. The spores that had started to form suddenly dissipated into nothing. Eva’s lips parted slightly in surprise. Ashley grinned. “No sleep for us, thanks.”

Eva chuckled, crossing her arms. “You’re crafty. Parasect, X-Scissor!”

With surprising speed, Parasect lunged forward, crossing his pincers as a glowing blue energy formed between them before slashing down toward Chione.

Ashley’s heart jumped. “Substitute!”

The instant Parasect’s attack connected, Chione’s body burst into a puff of icy mist—nothing more than an illusion. The real Chione had already darted to the side, standing with her tails flicking playfully as if mocking Parasect for missing.

The crowd murmured in awe, and even Gary, watching from the stands, smirked. “That fox is sharp,” he muttered, arms crossed.

Ashley pointed forward. “Now’s our chance—Ice Beam!”

Chione inhaled sharply, her entire body glowing with a chilling light before releasing a concentrated beam of ice straight at Parasect. The frozen energy struck the bug square in the center, causing frost to spread across his mushroom and legs.

The moment he staggered, Ashley called out again. “Swift!”

Golden stars shot from Chione’s tails, striking Parasect with pinpoint accuracy. The bug let out a slow, shuddering groan. Ashley clenched her fist. “Finish it—one more Ice Beam!”

Chione let out a determined cry and fired another icy beam, this one hitting Parasect dead-on. The ice spread rapidly, engulfing Parasect’s body in a thick layer of frost. Within seconds, the towering Bug-Grass Pokémon was completely frozen in place, its body encased in shimmering ice. The entire crowd fell silent as the referee stepped forward, taking one look at the unmoving Parasect before raising his flag.

“Parasect is unable to battle! Alolan Vulpix is the winner!”

The crowd erupted into cheers, many still murmuring in awe at Chione’s sheer control of ice. Ashley grinned widely as Chione let out a delighted chirp, trotting back to her trainer with her tails held high. Ashley knelt down, running a hand through her Pokémon’s thick, snowy fur.

“You were amazing, Chione,” she whispered. “Your first battle and it is a win!”

Eva sighed, smiling as she recalled her frozen Parasect. “Well, that was unexpected. Looks like I learned something today.”

Ashley laughed. “That’s what battles are for, right?”

Eva smirked. “True enough. But I’m not done yet.” She held up her next Poké Ball, a glint of determination in her eyes. “Let’s see how you handle this next one.” Eva wasted no time as she tossed her next Poké Ball into the air. “Alright, let’s go, Exeggcute!”

With a burst of light, a cluster of six pink eggs materialized onto the battlefield, each one shifting slightly, their tiny eyes blinking in unison. A soft telepathic hum filled the air, a sign of their psychic connection. Ashley bit the inside of her cheek. Exeggcute wasn’t a full-blown Exeggutor yet, but that didn’t mean they weren’t dangerous. Psychic and Grass-types together made for a tricky combo.

Chione stood firm, her icy tails swishing behind her, the cold mist from her earlier attacks still lingering in the air. Ashley could tell she was getting tired, but her little fox was nothing if not determined.

“Hope you’re not too attached to your strategy,” Eva called with a smirk. “Because we’re about to break it apart! Exeggcute, Confusion!”

The cluster of eggs glowed with a shimmering blue light before firing a wave of psychic energy straight at Chione.

Ashley’s brain worked fast. “Chione, Substitute!”

Just before the psychic attack connected, Chione’s body flickered, leaving behind a translucent ice decoy in her place. The Confusion struck the fake Vulpix, causing the substitute to shatter like glass. The real Chione materialized a few feet away, letting out a short yip as she landed gracefully.

Eva clicked her tongue. “Not bad, but you can’t dodge forever. Hypnosis!”

Ashley’s stomach twisted—she knew what was coming. Exeggcute’s eyes glowed an eerie pink, sending a hypnotic wave pulsing toward Chione.

“Chione, Mist!” Ashley countered.

A rush of cold fog exploded from Chione’s body, swirling around her and disrupting the hypnotic waves. The arena was suddenly coated in a thick white haze, making it harder for Exeggcute to lock onto their opponent.

Eva didn’t even look phased. “Oh, you wanna play like that? Fine. Exeggcute, Leech Seed!”

Ashley tensed as the cluster of eggs released a spray of glowing seeds into the air. The tiny green orbs drifted through the mist like fireflies, waiting to latch onto their target. Ashley gritted her teeth. She couldn’t let Chione get caught in that—if she did, her stamina would drain fast.

“Double Team, then Ice Beam!”

Chione split into multiple copies, each of them darting in different directions. The Leech Seeds latched onto some of the false images, instantly withering away as they hit nothing but air. Then, from the swirling fog, a beam of icy energy burst through, hitting Exeggcute dead-on.

Eva flinched as her Pokémon let out a collective shriek, frost forming over their tiny shells.

Ashley pumped a fist. “Alright! Follow it up with Powder Snow!”

Chione exhaled another flurry of cold air, aiming to completely freeze her opponent before they could retaliate.

But Eva was ready. “Exeggcute, Light Screen!”

Just before the icy wind could land, a shimmering psychic barrier formed in front of Exeggcute, blocking most of the attack. The remaining frost clung to their shells but wasn’t enough to freeze them solid.

Ashley narrowed her eyes. “Persistent.”

Eva grinned. “You know it. Confusion, now!”

The psychic wave slammed into Chione before she could dodge, sending the small Vulpix skidding backward. She shook her head as she tried to get back on her feet, but her legs wobbled—Ashley’s heart clenched.

“Chione?” she called. Chione let out a shaky breath, determined, but Ashley could see her stamina running on fumes. This battle had dragged on too long. She had to go all-in now. “Alright, let’s finish this! Ice Beam, one last time!”

Chione inhaled sharply, her small body glowing with frigid energy before firing off a final, powerful blast of ice.

Eva’s eyes widened. “Exeggcute, Confusion, redirect it!”

Exeggcute’s eyes flashed blue, and for a moment, it looked like they might manage to catch the Ice Beam—but they were too slow. The attack hit them full-force, encasing the entire group of eggs in thick ice. Their bodies trembled before, one by one, they toppled over, completely frozen.

Silence stretched through the crowd before the referee raised their flag.

“Exeggcute is unable to battle!”

Ashley’s relief was quickly overshadowed by exhaustion as she watched Chione sway on her paws before collapsing onto her side, breathing heavily. Ashley rushed forward, just as the referee made the next call.

“Alolan Vulpix is also unable to battle! This match is a double knockout!”

Ashley sighed, kneeling beside Chione and stroking her fur gently. “You did amazing, girl.”

Chione let out a soft mrrp of contentment before Ashley recalled her into her Poké Ball.

Eva was already walking toward her, shaking her head in amusement. “I’ll be honest, I was not expecting an Ice-type Vulpix. That was a wake-up call.” Making Ashley laugh. Eva chuckled before holding out her hand. “Well, congratulations. You still have one more Pokémon, which means you win.”

Ashley shook her hand firmly. “That was one of my toughest battles in this tournament yet. You’re incredible.”

The crowd erupted into cheers, and Ashley could barely hear herself think as the announcer called out the final results.

“And with that intense match, Ashley Ketchum advances to the finals of the S.S. Anne Tournament!”

Ashley grinned as she looked out at the roaring audience, her heart pounding in exhilaration. One more battle. One more victory. She was this close.

Ashley and Eva made their way off the stage, arms bumping as they giggled like old friends. The adrenaline from the battle was still coursing through Ashley’s veins, but instead of focusing on the fact that she had just secured her spot in the finals, her brain had latched onto a much more pressing matter—Eva’s stunning kimono.

"Okay, okay, forget battling for a second," Ashley said, practically bouncing on her heels as they stepped into the healing area of the S.S. Anne’s Healing Center. "Where did you get that kimono? That fabric, the pattern, the way it flows—it’s gorgeous!"

Eva laughed as she handed her Poké Balls over to Nurse Joy, who took them with a kind smile. "You have no idea how many trainers ask me that," she said, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "It’s actually from this super exclusive tailor in Celadon. You can’t just walk in and buy one off the rack—you have to request it in advance."

Ashley’s jaw nearly dropped. "A custom-made kimono? Are you serious?"

Eva nodded. "Yep. An old seamstress runs the place. She makes every kimono by hand, and they’re tailored specifically to the person wearing them. Erika gets all of hers from there."

Ashley gasped dramatically, grabbing Eva’s hands. "No way. If Erika goes there, I need to go there."

Eva smirked. "I thought you might say that."

Ashley let out a dreamy sigh as she leaned against the counter. "Alright, new plan—after I win this tournament, I’m so saving up for one. Do you think if I drop Erika’s name, I can get in faster?"

Eva laughed. "Maybe, but even with a recommendation, they’re still insanely pricey."

Ashley waved her hand dismissively. "Oh, trust me, money won’t be a problem. I’ve been raking it in ever since I started my journey."

Eva raised an eyebrow. "Oh? A high roller, are we?"

Ashley grinned. "Let’s just say gym challenges pay really well. And so do contests. And since I’m traveling mostly on foot, staying at Pokémon Centers, and only splurging on the occasional shopping spree, my savings are looking real nice."

Eva crossed her arms, impressed. "Wow, so you’re not just a strong trainer—you’re financially responsible too?"

Ashley puffed out her chest dramatically. "I am the dream trainer."

They both burst into laughter as Nurse Joy returned, handing them their Poké Balls back. Ashley took hers with a grateful nod, as she heard the crowd cheers all the way from the Healing Center. The second semi-final battle must have already begun.

"You’re not watching?" Eva asked, tilting her head.

Ashley shrugged. "I probably should, but honestly? I’m way more invested in this kimono situation."

Eva shook her head with a grin. "You’ve got your priorities straight, that’s for sure."

Ashley stretched her arms over her head. "Well, I am gonna win this thing, so it doesn’t really matter who my opponent is. I’ll battle whoever makes it to the finals."

Eva chuckled. "That’s some confidence."

Ashley winked. "It’s not confidence—it’s reality."

Ashley and Eva’s conversation was abruptly cut off by the roar of the crowd. The two trainers exchanged looks before making their way back to the battle stage, where the energy had just skyrocketed. Ashley blinked as the audience erupted in cheers, and when she followed their gaze, she spotted the trainer standing in the center of the stage, throwing his fist into the air with a confident grin.

Nate.

Ashley vaguely remembered hearing his name before—Pewter City native, heavy hitter, and apparently, her next and final opponent. He stood tall in the center of the battle stage, soaking in the applause like he had already won the whole thing. He turned his head slightly, scanning the crowd, and the moment his eyes landed on Ashley, his confident smirk widened. With a deliberate motion, he lifted a hand and pointed directly at her, mouthing something she didn’t quite catch—but she didn’t need to. The challenge in his expression was clear as day.

Eva let out a low whistle from beside her. “Oof. Looks like someone’s got his sights on you, Ketchum.”

Ashley laughed, flipping her hair over her shoulder as she stood up. “Let him. My team’s ready for anything.”

Eva grinned as she nudged her in the ribs. “I like that confidence. Go show him why you made it this far.”

Ashley shot her a wink. “That’s the plan.”

Just then, the announcer’s voice boomed over the speakers, his theatrics dialed up to a hundred. “Ladies and gentlemen, the moment you’ve all been waiting for! The final battle of the S.S. Anne Tournament is about to begin!”

Ashley inhaled deeply, pushing past the anticipation buzzing in her chest. The crowd was already wild with excitement, and as much as she wanted to focus on the battle, she couldn’t ignore how ridiculous this announcer was being.

He droned on, voice swelling with exaggerated flair. “These two have battled their way through some of the most talented trainers aboard, but now only one can claim the grand prize! From the stone-clad heart of Pewter City, we have Nate! A trainer who has crushed his opponents with sheer willpower and strategy! And facing him, from the world-renowned town of Pallet, a trainer who has left even Gym Leaders in awe—ASHLEY KETCHUM!”

Ashley resisted the urge to roll her eyes. Seriously, the guy could not be more dramatic if he tried. At this point, she was half-convinced he was practicing for a theater audition rather than hosting an actual tournament.

Still, the cheers that followed sent a thrill through her. The excitement in the air was electric, and despite the dramatics, it was impossible not to get swept up in it.

She walked forward with steady steps, owning every bit of confidence that had carried her this far. She didn’t need to puff up her chest or play to the crowd—her presence alone was enough. Her Pantheon had fought tooth and nail to get her here, and she wasn’t about to let all their effort go to waste.

As she took her place on the battlefield opposite Nate, he cocked an eyebrow at her. “Didn’t think I’d get to face you in the finals,” he mused, crossing his arms. “Guess this’ll be a battle to remember.”

Ashley smirked. “I’d get used to it if I were you. I don’t lose easily.”

Nate chuckled. “Good. Wouldn’t want it to be too easy.”

Ashley was about to fire back with another quip when the referee raised his flags. She immediately snapped into battle mode, rolling her shoulders and getting into position.

“Final match!” the referee called. “This will be a full three-vs-three battle! Trainers, send out your first Pokémon!”

Ashley exhaled, already running through her team’s strengths in her head. Nate mirrored her, his expression sharpening with determination. This was it. The last battle. The moment that would decide the tournament champion. Ashley tightened her grip on her Poké Ball, a slow grin spreading across her face.

Let’s do this.

Ashley released Neptune in a flash of light, the Lapras emerging onto the battlefield with a graceful cry, his shimmering blue scales catching the overhead lights of the battle stage. At the same time, Nate’s Graveler landed with a thud, the weight of its rocky form cracking the surface beneath it. The two Pokémon stood in stark contrast—one an elegant water-born behemoth, the other a rough, earthen tank built for brute force.

Ashley’s eyes gleamed. This was going to be fun.

Graveler had a clear disadvantage against a Water-type, but Ashley wasn’t about to let herself get cocky. Neptune’s greatest strength wasn’t just his typing—it was his ability to control the field itself. And Ashley was going to make sure that this battlefield belonged to him. Graveler might be immune to Electric-type attacks, so a Thunder Storm was out of the question. Luckily, Ashley had taught Hail to both Neptune and Chione just in time for this tournament.

She knew exactly what Nate was going to go for—Graveler was sturdy, tough, and a roller. Rollout was the go-to move for Rock-types that wanted to gain momentum fast, and there was no way Nate wouldn’t open with it.

She wasn’t about to let that happen.

“Graveler, Rollou—”

“Neptune, bring the storm!” Ashley cut in sharply, pointing at the sky.

Neptune trilled in response, his entire body glowing as he summoned his signature weather manipulation technique. The air around them shifted instantly. The overhead lights dimmed as thick storm clouds materialized, swirling in a violent dance as the temperature plummeted. A freezing wind howled through the battlefield, making the entire battle stage shiver.

But Ashley wasn’t done.

“Hail!” she commanded, her voice ringing out over the roaring storm.

With a single cry, Neptune sent icy shards cascading down from the sky, mingling with the cold rain, creating an absolute tempest. Pellets of ice battered the battlefield, covering the ground in a slick layer of frost, and within seconds, the entire stage looked more like the frozen tundra than a high-end cruise battle arena.

Nate took an instinctive step back. “What the—?!” His Graveler, caught in the chaos, barely got the chance to move before the sheer cold overtook it. Its rocky body trembled, frost creeping over its limbs, locking its movements before it could even roll.

Ashley smirked. Perfect.

The crowd let out collective gasps as the icy storm wrapped around the battle stage like a natural disaster, completely overtaking Nate’s side. The Rain Dance-Hail combo was brutal—rain slicked the floor, making movement even harder, while the Hail ensured anything caught in it was going down fast.

Graveler, still mid-command, froze solid.

Nate’s jaw dropped. “You’ve gotta be kidding me—”

Ashley’s grin widened. “Neptune, finish this!”

With a fierce cry, Neptune launched himself forward, his body glowing with raw energy as he executed Body Slam. The ice beneath him cracked as he propelled herself forward, the impact of his weight slamming into Graveler’s frozen form with a loud CRACK.

For a split second, time seemed to pause—then the ice shattered, pieces flying in every direction as Graveler was sent flying, landing in an unmoving heap on the other side of the battlefield.

Silence.

And then—

An explosion of cheers erupted from the stands, the crowd completely losing it as the referee raised a flag.

“Graveler is unable to battle! Lapras wins!”

Ashley flicked her hair over her shoulder, casually resting a hand on her hip as she shot Nate a smirk. “Well,” she said, voice teasing, “that was fast.”

Nate just stared, looking between Ashley and his obliterated Graveler before running a hand down his face. “That—” He let out a weak laugh, shaking his head. “That was brutal.”

Ashley grinned. “Hey, you wanted a battle.”

The icy storm was still going strong around them, hail and rain mixing together in an absolute spectacle, making the entire battle stage look like a winter storm in the middle of a cruise ship. Neptune let out a pleased trill, basking in the glory of his own handiwork.

Gary, watching from the stands, let out a low whistle. “Well, damn.”

One round down. And she was just getting started.

Nate’s second Pokémon was Dugtrio. Ashley smirked as Nate commanded them to use Sandstorm—they were most likely trying to counter the icy storm of Neptune. But the Sandstorm was too weak. Ashley’s Stormbringer easily overpowered it, the combined effects of Rain Dance and Hail overwhelming Dugtrio’s attempt to take control of the battlefield. Instead of disrupting Neptune’s storm, the Sandstorm was swallowed whole, leaving the chilling tempest raging stronger than ever.

However, Ashley quickly found herself frustrated when Nate took a different approach. Instead of countering her storm directly, he ordered Dugtrio to get underground and remain there until the time was right. What followed was a battle of wills and patience. Dugtrio was hiding, biding its time beneath the surface, while Neptune hovered above, unable to land an attack without a clear target. Ashley sighed through her nose. Once upon a time, she would have lost her patience and charged in recklessly. But Koga’s brutal ninja training had beaten patience into her—literally.

If Nate thought this strategy would throw her off, he was sorely mistaken.

Minutes passed. The tension in the air grew thick. The crowd began to murmur. Was Dugtrio just going to stay hidden? Would Neptune ever be able to land a hit? But Ashley didn’t move, and neither did Neptune. Instead, the Lapras remained in place, the icy storm continuing to rage.

Then, out of nowhere, the referee stepped forward and raised a hand. “Dugtrio is unable to battle! Neptune is the winner!”

Nate snapped his head towards the referee, eyes wide in shock. “Wait, what?!” His voice carried his disbelief as he turned back toward the battle stage. “There are no rules that disqualify me for using Dig for a prolonged time! This isn’t the Indigo Conference, so—”

Ashley finally spoke, her smirk widening. “You were too busy paying attention to the sky and the icy storm that you forgot to look down.”

Nate blinked, his frustration flickering into confusion.

Ashley tilted her head, as if explaining something very simple to a very slow student. “Giga Drain is a lovely move,” she said, voice dripping with amusement. “And you know what makes it even better? The ground is an excellent conduit.”

Nate’s mouth fell open slightly, his eyes darting toward the battlefield as realization sank in. The entire time Dugtrio had been burrowing, completely still beneath the surface, Neptune had been gradually leeching its stamina away. The constant, subtle energy drain had gone unnoticed in the middle of the intense storm.

The Psychic-type referee overseeing the battlefield waved their hand, and Dugtrio’s fainted form levitated from the earth, proving Ashley’s victory. The crowd erupted into cheers, still reeling from the sheer sneakiness of the tactic.

Nate rubbed the back of his head, letting out an incredulous chuckle. “I gotta admit, I didn’t expect you to be so sly. You’re always so flashy—I figured you’d go for another big, dramatic move.”

Ashley only laughed, taking the comment in stride. “Oh, trust me, I love a flashy move,” she said, giving Neptune an affectionate pat. “But sometimes, subtlety gets the job done. My sensei beat that lesson into me.”

Gary, watching from the stands, let out a low whistle. He had never seen Ashley battle like this. This wasn’t just power—this was cold, calculated patience. And that? That was almost scary. He had long since stopped lying to himself, he was so damn proud of her.

Nate’s final Pokémon was Sandslash, and as the Ground-type emerged onto the battlefield, the crowd murmured with anticipation. Sandslash was a tough, battle-worn Pokémon—his claws sharp, his spiny back bristling as he eyed Neptune with a predator’s focus.

Everyone was expecting Ashley to keep Neptune in play. A Water-type against a Ground-type? The advantage was obvious. That’s why the entire arena gasped when Ashley recalled Neptune and threw out a different Poké Ball.

With a flash of light, Proserpina, Ashley’s recently evolved Vileplume, took the stage, shaking her massive, vibrant petals as she let out a musical cry. The moment she landed, she gave a little shake, as if still getting used to her larger body. Ashley had to bite back a chuckle—this was as much a test run for Proserpina as it was a real battle.

Nate raised an eyebrow. “Huh. Thought you’d go with your Lapras.”

Ashley smirked. “Nah, I already showed you what he can do. Now it’s Proserpina’s turn.”

Nate shrugged, but there was amusement in his gaze. “Alright then, let’s see what she’s got. Sandslash, get in close with Crush Claw!”

Sandslash immediately lunged forward, his claws glowing with raw power as he tore across the battle stage.

Ashley, unfazed, simply raised a hand. “Proserpina, Substitute, then Sunny Day!”

With a flick of her petals, Proserpina created a double that took then hit from the Crush Claw. Then from the other side of the battle stage, she let out a burst of shimmering energy into the sky, cutting through the remnants of the icy battlefield and bringing a warm, golden glow overhead. The thick layer of ice Neptune had created melted away in seconds, turning the battlefield from an arctic tundra to a sun-drenched paradise. Ashley could already feel the shift in the air—the arena was now her terrain.

“Sandslash, use Aerial Ace!” Nate commanded, but Ashley had already predicted his next move.

“Grassy Terrain!” Ashley called out, her smirk widening.

Proserpina slammed her feet into the ground, sending a pulse of green energy rippling through the battlefield. Almost immediately, thick, vibrant grass shot up from the ground, tangling around Sandslash’s legs. The sudden shift threw the Ground-type off balance, causing him to stumble mid-attack. The crowd gasped at the sheer transformation—one second, the battlefield was solid rock, the next, a lush field of emerald green.

“Magical Leaf!” Ashley followed up smoothly.

From Proserpina’s massive petals, a flurry of glowing leaves shot forward, slicing through the air in a mesmerizing arc. Sandslash barely had time to regain his footing before dodging the attack.

But Ashley wasn’t done.

“Seed Bomb—mix it up!” she ordered.

Proserpina’s petals rustled, then launched several glowing green orbs straight into the air. They pulsed with energy, looking like harmless, oversized seeds… until they rained down like mini-explosions. But Ashley had added a twist—each Seed Bomb was coated in Stun Spore, the fine golden dust spreading like fireworks across the battlefield.

BOOM.

The explosions hit Sandslash directly, and before he could recover, golden sparks danced over his body, his limbs locking up in paralysis.

Nate swore under his breath. “Sandslash, shake it off! Use Earthquake!”

Ashley’s grin turned almost mischievous. “Oh no, you don’t. Proserpina, coat it!”

The moment Sandslash tried to stomp down to create a shockwave, another flurry of glowing leaves surged forward. But this time, they shimmered with a dark purple hue—Toxic.

Magical Leaf, already a homing attack, slammed into Sandslash’s body. Each glowing projectile left behind streaks of poison, the toxins seeping into his skin. Now, not only was Sandslash paralyzed, but he was also poisoned, his body trembling from the dual-status conditions.

The crowd let out a stunned murmur. Gary let out a low whistle, shaking his head. This wasn’t just a Grass-type battle. This was a ninja’s battle.

“Wrap it up, Proserpina,” Ashley commanded.

Proserpina gave an elegant twirl before sending one final Seed Bomb straight at Sandslash. The paralyzed Pokémon had no way to move, no way to dodge. The attack landed perfectly, sending the Ground-type tumbling backward.

The moment the dust settled, the referee raised his hand. “Sandslash is unable to battle! The victory goes to Ashley Ketchum!”

The crowd erupted into cheers as Nate sighed, shaking his head before recalling his fainted Pokémon. He looked over at Ashley and gave a rueful grin. “Man, you’re ruthless.”

Ashley gave him a cheeky grin in return. “Nah. Just resourceful.”

Nate and Ashley clasped hands in a firm shake, both still grinning from the intensity of the battle. The crowd’s cheers swelled around them, echoing through the cruise’s grand battle stage, but Ashley barely had time to take it all in before she was suddenly tackled into a hug by Eva.

"You absolute monster!" Eva practically shrieked, squeezing Ashley tight before pulling back, her grin wide. "You wrecked him! That wasn’t even a battle, that was an execution—a tactical execution!"

Ashley let out a breathless laugh, still feeling the rush of adrenaline pumping through her veins. “Hey, hey, he put up a good fight!” she defended, throwing Nate a nod of respect. “That Sandslash was no joke.”

Nate chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck with a sheepish smile. “Yeah, yeah. But let’s be real—I got outmaneuvered. That whole ‘sly ninja’ thing? Definitely works for you.”

Ashley smirked at that, but before she could respond, she heard the sound of slow, deliberate clapping from the stands. Turning her head, she spotted Gary casually strolling toward her with his Wartortle at his side. He had that signature smirk of his—equal parts teasing and begrudgingly impressed.

“Well, well, well. Look at you, Ketchum,” he said, crossing his arms as he stopped just in front of her. “From running around Pallet Town like a hyperactive kid to terrifying an entire cruise ship’s worth of trainers. Never thought I’d see the day.”

Ashley scoffed, putting her hands on her hips. “Oh, please. I’ve always been terrifying.”

Gary snorted. “Yeah, sure. And I’m the Champion of Kanto.”

Before Ashley could throw a comeback, the announcer—who she had completely forgotten about—stepped forward, holding a microphone as if he were preparing to deliver some grand, long-winded speech. Ashley barely had time to groan internally before the man launched into his monologue.

"And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen! A spectacular display of skill, cunning, and—"

"Yeah, yeah, great sportsmanship, amazing battle, inspiring journey, all that," Ashley cut him off smoothly, reaching forward and swiftly plucking the briefcase from his hands before he could continue.

The announcer let out a choked noise of protest, clearly thrown off, but Ashley had already turned her attention to the briefcase. She wasn’t about to sit through another painfully dramatic congratulatory speech—she could only take so many of those in one day!

As she clicked open the case, all four of them—Ashley, Eva, Nate, and Gary—leaned in, and a collective whistle escaped them at the sight.

Sitting neatly inside was a very hefty check with a prize amount that made Ashley’s eyes widen. The sum was more than enough to pay for that tailored kimono she’d been eyeing. Maybe even two, she thought, dazed. And a nice meal. And still have plenty left for her journey.

But while the money was nice, it wasn’t what truly had Ashley buzzing.

Nestled beside the check, gleaming under the cruise lights, were three perfectly cut evolutionary stones—the Kanto Trio.

A Fire Stone. A Water Stone. A Thunder Stone.

Ashley’s hands twitched as excitement bubbled up in her chest. "No way." She gingerly picked up each one, feeling the smooth, cool surfaces beneath her fingertips. These weren’t just stones. These were future powerhouses.

She turned to her friends, practically vibrating with glee. “Vulcan, Venus, and Mercury are gonna flip!”

Gary leaned in slightly, eyeing the stones. “Damn, not bad. So, what’s the plan? You evolving all three right now?”

Ashley hesitated, glancing down at the stones thoughtfully. “Mm… not right this second. I wanna talk to them about it first. Make sure they’re ready.” She smirked. “But knowing them? They’re gonna be begging me to use these.”

Eva nudged her with an elbow, grinning. “Well, whatever you decide, I better get a front-row seat when you evolve them. I wanna see that majestic glow-up in person.”

Ashley laughed, tucking the stones safely into her bag. “Oh, don’t worry. You’ll definitely get to see it.”

Nate crossed his arms, shaking his head in amusement. “Man, I should’ve fought harder. I could’ve used one of those stones.”

Gary clapped a hand on Nate’s shoulder, smirking. “Hey, don’t feel too bad. You never stood a chance.”

Nate rolled his eyes but grinned anyway, and Ashley just laughed as the group started walking off the stage together, the cheers of the crowd still echoing behind them.

Chapter Text

The morning sun streamed through the windows of Ashley’s cruise suite, illuminating the ridiculous amount of food spread out before her and her team. The cruise had truly outdone itself—golden stacks of fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit arranged in an intricate pattern, eggs cooked in every imaginable style, and an assortment of fresh-baked pastries that had Ashley raising an eyebrow at the sheer excess. And that was just her breakfast.

The Pantheon had their own meals, each dish custom-tailored to their needs. Neptune’s was the largest portion, a spread of specially prepared kelp and nutrient-dense fish, while Chione’s dish was a delicate mixture of frozen berries and shaved ice. Vulcan’s meal was warm and slightly spicy, Mercury and Venus each had high-energy kibble, and Proserpina’s was packed with vitamins meant for Grass-types. Apollo, the newest big boy on the team, was coiled comfortably, looking quite pleased with his upgraded dragon-sized meal.

Ashley sat cross-legged on the plush carpet, still in her oversized pajamas, hair an absolute mess, and completely unbothered by the grandeur of the suite. With a yawn, she reached for a croissant while watching her Pokémon interact.

Apollo, for his part, was basking in the attention. Venus, ever the queen, was carefully inspecting the scales of the newly evolved Dragonair, while Mercury excitedly yipped and pounced at Apollo’s long, sleek tail like it was the best new toy in the world. Proserpina swayed side to side, practically humming in delight as she sniffed Apollo’s wings.

Ashley shook her head with a chuckle, breaking off a piece of her pancake and popping it into her mouth. “You’re all way too fascinated with him. He just grew longer and shinier.”

Apollo lifted his head dramatically at that, flicking his tail with an air of faux offense.

“Oh, sorry, did I insult the mighty Dragonair?” Ashley teased, snickering. “Should I start calling you Lord Apollo now? Or, wait, maybe The Magnificent Apollo, Ruler of the Skies and Annoyer of Trainers Everywhere.”

Mercury yipped in approval, and Venus, ever dignified, nodded as if considering it seriously. Apollo, however, rolled his eyes and flicked his tail, knocking over Ashley’s juice glass in retaliation.

“Oi!” Ashley yelped, scrambling to grab napkins before the spill could get worse. “You did that on purpose!”

Apollo let out a smooth, melodious hum, which definitely sounded like smug satisfaction.

The laughter died down when Ashley caught movement out of the corner of her eye—Mars was sitting near the back, his arms crossed, poking at his food with disinterest.

Ashley frowned, setting down her plate and crawling over to him. “Hey, bud,” she said softly, ruffling the fire-lizard’s head. “You okay?”

Mars huffed and refused to meet her eyes, his tail flame flickering in irritation. Ashley knew exactly what this was about.

“Still mad about the tournament?” she asked, already knowing the answer. Mars huffed again, his claws tapping against the plate in a slow, sulking rhythm. The rest of the team was celebrating, but he had barely touched his food.

Ashley sighed and leaned against him, resting her chin on his shoulder. “I get it,” she said, nudging him gently. “You wanted to be out there. Kicking ass. Showing off.” Mars’ claws clenched slightly. “But you also turn green when you’re on a ship for too long,” Ashley reminded him, a teasing lilt in her voice.

That got a twitch out of him. A tiny grunt. His worst secret—Mars, the fiercest, most battle-hungry member of the Pantheon, had sea sickness. Not just any sea sickness, severe sea sickness. It was fine when he was on Neptune’s back—Lapras’ movement was smooth, and he could handle that. But the cruise ship? Too much motion. Too much swaying.

Ashley grinned, nudging him again. “We both know you wouldn’t have made it past one battle before you started looking like a poisoned Spinda.”

Mars growled lowly, not wanting to admit she was right, but Ashley caught the slight upturn of his mouth.

“I promise you’ll get your shot next time, alright?” she continued, giving him a scratch under his chin—the one spot he would never admit he liked. “You’ll get to torch someone properly.” Mars grumbled but finally picked up a piece of steak and eating it. Victory. Ashley smiled, stretching her arms as she stood up. “Alright, everyone! Eat up, ‘cause once we’re done, we’ve got some serious conversations to have.”

Mercury barked excitedly, while Venus elegantly flicked her tail as if acknowledging an order. Vulcan wagged his own tail eagerly, clearly ready for more action. Apollo, despite just evolving, let out a pleased hum, probably just happy to be included. Neptune lazily splashed some water from his food dish, making it very clear he would not be training. Ashley rolled her eyes but let him be—Lapras deserved to rest after obliterating that tournament.

Once breakfast was over, she heard a knock from the door, she stood up and opened it. She found Eva and Gary waiting for her, the two of them were wearing their pajamas too. All three of them were on the same floor, how they did not cross paths before the tournament was a miracle.

Ashley grinned as she shut the door behind Eva and Gary, shaking her head in amusement at their pajama-clad appearances. “Didn’t even bother changing, huh?”

Gary scoffed, crossing his arms. “Why should I? You’re still in pajamas too.”

Eva giggled as she plopped onto the floor beside Ashley’s team, adjusting the sleeves of her oversized sleep shirt. “It’s way too early for real clothes.”

Ashley smirked but didn’t argue. Instead, she turned her attention to the Pokémon joining them. Gary’s Wartortle followed him in, looking as smug as his trainer, while Eva’s Ivysaur trotted beside her, sniffing at Proserpina before giving an approving nod—one Grass-type acknowledging another. Ashley chuckled at the unspoken exchange before Mars stepped forward, looking between them all with a considering stare.

“You realize something?” Ashley mused, tilting her head. “We each have one of the Kanto starters… and they’re all in their second stage.”

The realization hit all three of them at the same time. Eva giggled, covering her mouth as her Ivysaur puffed out his chest proudly. Wartortle folded his arms in a stance that screamed of course I’m the coolest one here, and Mars? Mars just smirked and flicked his tail flame, clearly satisfied by the irony.

“That’s… actually kind of awesome,” Eva admitted. “Like fate or something.”

Gary, however, wasn’t paying attention. His gaze was locked onto Apollo, who had coiled elegantly near the window, his blue scales gleaming in the morning sunlight. Gary's eyes narrowed in curiosity before he turned back to Ashley. “Did you call my Gramps about him?” he asked, nodding toward the Dragonair.

Ashley leaned back on her hands and snorted. “Obviously. I spent most of last night talking to him on my PokéNav. He nearly had a heart attack when I told him Apollo evolved.”

Gary rolled his eyes, but there was something softer behind the exasperation. “Figures. He probably went into full professor mode.”

“Oh, he did.” Ashley smirked. “You should’ve seen it, Gary. He had his glasses all the way down his nose, muttering under his breath about genetic markers and optimal conditions for Dratini evolution. It was full-blown ‘Oak Research Mode.’”

Gary clicked his tongue but didn’t deny it. “Yeah, sounds about right.”

Ashley studied him for a second, watching the way his fingers tapped absently against his knee. Gary didn’t realize it, but he loved talking about Pokémon studies—he just never let himself admit it. She’d always thought it was a waste, seeing him struggle under the weight of living in his grandfather’s shadow. She didn’t say it aloud, but she knew that, deep down, Gary belonged in research. Maybe one day, he’d figure it out for himself.

Eva, sensing the shift in conversation, turned to Ashley expectantly. “So, are we really in time?”

Ashley blinked before snapping back to reality. “Oh! Yeah, you are.” She straightened up, rolling her shoulders before looking toward the Pokémon at the center of this moment.

She turned to Vulcan first, then to Venus, and her voice softened. “Winning the tournament got us something really special. We got a Fire Stone, a Water Stone, and a Thunder Stone.”

Venus’s ears twitched in intrigue, while Vulcan’s tail wagged slightly.

Ashley then turned to Mercury, who had been watching the conversation intently. “Merc, I’ve got a Thunder Stone for you too,” she assured him. “But I’ll save it for when you’re ready, okay? No rush.”

Mercury yipped and nudged her leg, his tail wagging slightly. He was still young, but Ashley already knew—his time would come when he was ready to take it.

She then turned to Chione, who sat primly at her side, her white fur glistening in the morning light. “And you, Chione, I promise I’ll find you an Ice Stone. But that’s way down the line. You and Mercury are still the newest members of the Pantheon. You’ve both got time before you evolve.”

Chione blinked up at her, tilting her head in an almost regal nod, as if accepting her trainer’s words like a queen granting permission.

Finally, Ashley took a deep breath and turned back to Vulcan and Venus, who were practically vibrating in excitement. “Alright, guys,” she said, the weight of the moment settling over her. “Are you ready?”

Vulcan let out an excited bark, his tail wagging a mile a minute. Venus, ever the elegant one, simply lifted her head with a soft, determined chime.

Eva beamed. “Oh, this is so exciting! I’ve never actually seen a Pokémon evolve using a stone in person!”

Gary, however, crossed his arms and smirked. “Yeah, yeah, just get on with it, Ketchum. Let’s see what these two are made of.”

Ashley grinned. Oh, they were about to find out.

Ashley knelt down, placing the Fire Stone before Vulcan with both care and excitement. The Growlithe sniffed at it curiously, his ears twitching as the stone pulsed with warmth. He looked up at Ashley, as if silently asking if this was really happening.

Ashley smiled. "Whenever you're ready, buddy."

Vulcan hesitated only for a second longer before stepping forward. The moment his paw made contact with the Fire Stone, it glowed a brilliant orange, the light wrapping around his entire body in a warm, fiery embrace. The intensity of the glow made everyone instinctively squint, and Ashley could feel the heat radiating from where she knelt.

Then, as the light pulsed outward, Vulcan’s form expanded. His small frame lengthened, his legs stretched taller, and his fur thickened into a magnificent mane. His tail, once a small fluffy curl, became a sweeping, elegant plume, swaying gently behind him even before the light fully faded.

When the glow finally dimmed, standing before them wasn’t a small Growlithe anymore—but a massive Arcanine.

Ashley barely had time to react before Vulcan let out a deep, exhilarated bark, his body trembling with excitement. And then—

"Vulcan, no!—"

Too late. The newly evolved Arcanine lunged toward her, intending to give her the same affectionate licks he always had as a Growlithe. But instead of a cute, puppy-sized lick—

WHAM!

Ashley let out an oof as she was promptly tackled to the ground, her back landing against the soft carpet. Vulcan hovered over her, his tail wagging like crazy, eyes sparkling with joy as he finally licked her cheek—his tongue now comically oversized compared to before.

Eva gasped, hands over her mouth, before bursting into laughter. Gary? He was dying, doubled over as he wheezed. "Oh man—Ketchum down! I repeat—Ketchum down!"

Ashley groaned but couldn’t stop laughing either, reaching up to pat Vulcan’s fluffy mane. “Vulcan—bud, I love you, but you weigh a ton now!" She ran her fingers through his fur, pausing mid-motion before gasping. "Oh, my Arceus, you're so soft!"

Eva immediately dropped to her knees beside them, running her hands through Vulcan’s fur as well. “Oh wow! He’s like a walking cloud of warmth! I might be a Grass Specialist, but I want one!"

Gary, trying to keep his cool but failing, crouched down and gave Vulcan’s side a pat, eyebrows raising. “Yeah, okay, I’ll admit it—this is quality fur. Ketchum, I’m almost jealous. You must have taken good care of Vulcan’s fur while he was a Growlithe.”

Vulcan let out a happy woof, clearly pleased with all the attention, his large tail swishing behind him. Ashley finally sat up—barely, since her newly evolved Arcanine still loomed over her—and grinned as she ruffled his thick mane.

"Yeah," she said, laughing as she scratched behind his ears. "Best evolution ever."

Once Vulcan had finally calmed down—meaning, after several more minutes of tail wagging, affectionate headbutts, and Ashley firmly instructing him not to pounce on her again—she dusted herself off and turned toward Venus. The female Eevee had been sitting patiently the entire time, watching Vulcan’s evolution with her usual regal poise, her fluffy tail curled neatly around her paws.

Ashley knelt down, reaching for the light blue scarf Venus always wore. “Alright, princess, let’s take this off first,” she said softly, carefully untying the scarf and removing the pearl. “Wouldn’t want it to rip when you—” Ashley paused, giving her a knowing look. “Dramatically grow two feet taller.”

Venus huffed, clearly unimpressed by Ashley’s teasing, but she allowed her trainer to fold the scarf neatly and place it in her bag. Then, Ashley reached into the same bag and pulled out the Water Stone, its surface gleaming with an almost liquid shimmer.

She set it down before Venus. "Whenever you're ready."

Unlike Vulcan, who had taken his time before touching his Fire Stone, Venus was decisive. Without hesitation, she stepped forward and placed her paw on the stone.

The transformation was instant.

A radiant blue glow engulfed her body, the light pulsing in gentle waves, almost like rippling water. Venus’s small frame began to shift and elongate, her fur melting away into a sleek, smooth body. Her large, fluffy tail dissolved into a flowing, fin-like structure. The warmth of her fur faded, replaced by a distinct coolness that Ashley could feel even from where she sat.

Then, the glow dimmed, revealing Venus’s new form.

She was no longer the fluffy, dainty Eevee—now, she was an elegant Vaporeon, her new form shimmering under the room’s light. Her soft, round ears had transformed into fin-like crests, and her neck was now adorned with a delicate, translucent frill. Her deep brown eyes had shifted into a striking ocean blue.

Venus took an experimental step forward, her body gliding effortlessly, her movements smoother than they had ever been. But Ashley could tell—there was hesitation in the way Venus held herself. The way her legs trembled slightly, how she flexed her paws against the carpet as if testing them.

Ashley immediately reached out, placing a hand on Venus’s head. "Hey, easy there," she murmured, rubbing gently between her fins. "I know it feels weird, but you’ll get used to it."

Venus let out a quiet, unfamiliar sound—something between a purr and a soft chime. Ashley’s eyes widened slightly at how cold she felt. Eevee fur had been warm and soft, but this? Venus’s skin was smooth, almost slippery, and icy to the touch. Not quite as frigid as Neptune’s shell or Chione’s snowy coat, but still shockingly cool compared to what she’d been just moments ago.

Gary let out a low whistle. “Whoa. That’s… different.” He crouched down, holding out a hand cautiously. Venus tilted her head at him before pressing her nose against his fingers. The second she made contact, Gary flinched. “Yeah, that’s definitely new. She’s cold as Distortion World.”

Eva giggled, reaching out to feel Venus’s frill. “She’s so smooth! And her fins are soft!”

Ashley smiled, scratching behind Venus’s newly evolved ears. "Takes some getting used to, huh?"

Venus blinked at her before taking a few more steps, flexing her long tail behind her. Ashley could see her slowly adjusting to the way her body moved differently now—how her limbs responded with fluid grace rather than the light-footed agility of an Eevee. She was no longer built for dashing around on land; she was built for gliding through water.

“Guess you’re really ready for that Wallace-inspired performance now, huh?” Ashley teased, grinning at her. Venus let out a more confident chime, her tail flicking playfully. Ashley beamed. “Alright, then. Welcome to the next stage, Vaporeon.”

Eva picked up her PokéNav, tapping through a few messages before her eyes brightened. “Oh! Nate just texted—he’s already at one of the training rooms in the cruise’s gym. He booked it so Apollo could get used to his new size, and now Vulcan and Venus can do the same.” She looked up at Ashley with a small grin. “He really went all out for you.”

Ashley blinked before smiling, touched by the gesture. Nate might’ve been her opponent in the finals, but he was still a good guy. “That’s really thoughtful of him. Tell him we’ll be there soon.”

Eva nodded and quickly sent back a reply while Gary stretched, rolling his shoulders. “Welp, I better go get changed. Wouldn’t want to show up to a training session in pajamas. As hilarious as that would be.”

Eva giggled. “Speak for yourself—I totally would.”

Ashley snorted as they both turned to leave, waving her off. “Go on, go on, I’ll meet you guys there.”

With that, Ashley turned back to her Pokémon, recalling them one by one. When she got to Vulcan, wo was still enjoying his new bulk, he gave one last excited huff before vanishing into his Poké Ball. Venus flicked her newly finned tail before disappearing into hers as well. Ashley let out a deep breath once the room was quiet again, rolling her shoulders before heading to get dressed.

She went with her usual outfit—her comfortable pink skirt, a white shirt, and her black vest. She laced up her pink sneakers, then grabbed her white-and-pink Poké Ball hat, hesitating for a moment before deciding to leave her hair loose today. Her bag was slung over her shoulder in a practiced motion as she stepped out of her room.

Now she just had to wait on those two slowpokes.

Leaning against the hallway wall, Ashley checked her PokéNav, scrolling through some of the photos she’d taken the last few days. She didn’t have long to admire them before Gary and Eva finally emerged from their rooms.

“All right, all right, we’re ready,” Gary said, adjusting his jacket. “Let’s go before Nate thinks we bailed.”

Ashley pushed off the wall and fell into step beside them. The three of them walked toward the cruise gym, but Ashley was very pointedly ignoring all the looks being sent her way. She could feel them—curious, impressed, envious, the whole mix—but she was not dealing with it. Not this early in the day.

Of course, Eva and Gary noticed immediately.

“You’re famous now,” Eva teased, nudging her lightly.

“Better start practicing your autograph,” Gary added, smirking. “Maybe they’ll even put your face on the next batch of PokéDollars.”

Ashley groaned, pulling her hat lower over her face. “I hate you both.”

They laughed as they finally reached the gym, pushing through the doors and into the private training section. Ashley let out a relieved breath as soon as they stepped inside—it was quiet, private, and most importantly, not filled with people staring at her.

Nate was already there, leaning against a training dummy with his arms crossed. The moment he saw them, he straightened up with a grin. “Took you long enough.”

Ashley smirked back. “Blame these two. They took an eternity to get ready! And then they wouldn’t stop talking about my newfound celebrity status.”

Gary scoffed. “Oh, like we’re the problem.”

Eva giggled. “She’s just in denial.”

Nate chuckled, shaking his head before gesturing to the open space. “Alright, let’s get to it. You’ve got three Pokémon who need to adjust to their new forms, and we’ve got this whole space to ourselves. Let’s see what they’ve got.”

Ashley nodded, already reaching for her Poké Balls. “Let’s do this.”

As soon as the Poké Balls hit the ground, flashes of white light illuminated the training room, and in seconds, Ashley’s newly evolved Pokémon stood before them. Vulcan stretched out his massive Arcanine frame, shaking his thick mane before sitting back on his haunches, tail wagging lazily behind him. Venus, now a sleek Vaporeon, flexed her fins and took a cautious step forward, still adjusting to the way her new body moved. Apollo, towering in his Dragonair form, coiled in the air, his long body undulating smoothly as he tested his newfound grace.

Nate let out a low whistle. “You really didn’t waste a second using those stones, huh?” He folded his arms and smirked. “First your Dratini turns into a freaking Dragonair in the middle of a battle, and now you’ve got a Vaporeon and an Arcanine. You just had to show off, huh?”

Ashley grinned as she patted Vulcan’s side, the fire-type practically vibrating with excitement. “Hey, I had the stones, might as well put ‘em to good use. Venus was more than eager for sure.”

Nate nodded but then tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing in curiosity. “Wait, hold on—Venus? I thought your Eevee was Mercury? The one you used in the tournament was male.”

Ashley chuckled, crossing her arms. “Yeah. That’s because I do have two Eevees. Mercury’s actually a hatchling from one of Dad’s Pokémon, while Venus is a catch from the Safari Zone. Mercury the one you saw in the tournament. He’s still new to the team, so I’m holding off on evolving him for now. He’s already set on becoming a Jolteon, but I want to make sure he’s got enough experience before I give him the Thunder Stone.”

Nate whistled again, shaking his head with a look of disbelief. “Man, you’re just hoarding potential, aren’t you? Two Eevees, a freaking Dragonair, a Lapras—it’s like you’re building a team specifically to flex on all of Kanto.”

Gary snorted. “She already is flexing. She just doesn’t realize it.”

Ashley groaned, dragging a hand down her face. “I hate all of you.”

Eva giggled, giving Venus an affectionate pat on the head. “Well, flexing or not, it’s impressive. Venus looks gorgeous.”

Ashley glanced at her newly evolved water-type, watching as Venus cautiously stepped forward, her movements still a little unsteady. “I think she will be thrown off by the whole ‘suddenly being a water-type’ thing for a while. She was a normal-type, and now boom—she can breathe underwater.”

Venus flicked her tail and let out a soft chitter, as if agreeing.

Gary smirked. “Yeah, well, at least she didn’t immediately tackle you like a certain oversized puppy.”

Ashley shot a glare at Vulcan, who, in response, gave the most innocent look possible, tongue hanging slightly out of his mouth. Ashley sighed, pressing a palm to his mane. “Yeah, yeah. You know you’re lucky you’re so soft.”

Vulcan let out a pleased rumble, clearly taking that as a compliment.

Nate clapped his hands together. “Alright, enough chit-chat. You’ve got three Pokémon that need to get used to their new size and power, so let’s put them through their paces.”

Ashley grinned, cracking her knuckles. “Now that is a plan I can get behind.”

The private training room quickly turned into an organized chaos of movement, commands, and excited Pokémon energy. Ashley, Nate, Eva, and Gary each took their spots, calling out encouragement and guidance as they worked together to help Vulcan, Apollo, and Venus adjust to their newly evolved forms.

Vulcan, being the most physically imposing of the three, was the first to test his strength and speed. Nate took the lead, standing at the far end of the room while calling out commands. “Alright, big guy! Let’s see how much faster you are now!”

Vulcan didn’t even hesitate. His paws slammed against the ground with powerful force, and in an instant, he became a blur, streaking across the room like a bolt of fire. Ashley barely had time to blink before Vulcan skidded to a stop in front of Nate, kicking up a gust of wind that ruffled everyone’s hair. Nate let out an impressed whistle. “Okay, that was ridiculously fast.”

Gary, standing with Wartortle at the side, smirked. “Guess he’s not a hyperactive little puppy anymore.”

Ashley grinned, but before she could respond, Vulcan let out a deep, excited bark and spun around, immediately sprinting back toward her. “Oh no—” Ashley had exactly one second to realize what was about to happen before the massive Arcanine barreled into her at full force, knocking her flat on her back.

Gary and Eva burst out laughing again as Ashley groaned dramatically from where she lay, Vulcan standing proudly over her with his tongue lolling out, tail wagging like he hadn't just tackled her with the force of a small truck. “Vulcan,” she wheezed, pushing herself up on her elbows, “I already told you; you cannot do that anymore. You weigh like a Tauros now!”

Vulcan let out a huff, nudging his snout into her cheek in apology. Ashley sighed but patted his mane. “Yeah, yeah, you’re forgiven. But seriously, we need to work on your control.”

Meanwhile, Apollo was in his own little world, coiling and uncoiling his long, elegant body in the air. He flicked his tail, testing how it moved now that he was no longer the compact little Dratini he used to be. Eva was beside him, arms crossed, observing with fascination. “How’s he handling it?” She gestured to Apollo’s long, serpentine body.

Ashley dusted herself off and turned toward her Dragonair, watching as he awkwardly twisted midair, his movements still clumsy compared to how fluid they should be. “I think he’s still figuring out his balance,” she said. “He used to be able to wrap around me like a scarf, but now he’s too big for that. He needs to learn how to maneuver himself better.”

Gary rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Maybe have him do some aerial drills? Like, weaving between obstacles or doing quick turns. He’s got power, but if he can’t move properly, he’s not gonna be able to use it.”

Ashley nodded. “Good idea.” She turned to Apollo, who was currently trying to loop himself into a perfect coil and fail miserably. “Alright, buddy, time to practice precision flying. Let’s have you weave through those training dummies.”

Apollo perked up at the challenge, letting out a determined trill before shooting forward. At first, he was a bit wobbly, his long tail nearly knocking over the dummies as he tried to swerve around them, but after a few tries, he started getting the hang of it.

But while Vulcan and Apollo were making solid progress, Ashley’s real concern was Venus. Unlike the others, who had only grown in size or refined their strengths, Venus had undergone a complete elemental change. She wasn’t a Normal-type anymore—she was now fully Water-type.

And she was struggling.

Venus was pacing in tight circles, ears flicking back in frustration. Every time Ashley tried to get her to use a Water-type move, Venus hesitated, as if she wasn’t sure how. It was one thing to learn a new move, but this was instinct. A Normal-type Pokémon didn’t have the natural feel for water that a Water-type did, and Ashley could tell that Venus was completely lost.

Ashley crouched beside her, placing a reassuring hand on her sleek, smooth back. “It’s okay, Venus. This is all new, I get it.” Venus let out a small chirrup, looking up at Ashley with uncertainty. “We just need to take this slow. You don’t have to get it all right away.”

Venus flicked her tail, obviously still uncomfortable, and Ashley knew she had to try a different approach. “Hey,” she said, standing up and stepping back, “why don’t we start simple? Let’s try just summoning a tiny bit of water. Nothing big, just a little Water Gun. Don’t think about it too much—just feel it.”

Venus hesitated, her head dipping low. Ashley could almost see the gears turning in her head. Then, slowly, Venus opened her mouth, and—a small, pathetic drizzle of water dribbled out.

There was silence.

Gary, standing at the side, coughed. “Uh... well, that’s... a start?”

Ashley snorted, trying to stifle her laugh. Venus let out an annoyed chirp, shaking her head as if embarrassed.

“Hey, don’t be like that,” Ashley said, patting Venus again. “Let’s give it another try.”

Venus blinked up at her, still uncertain but willing to try again. They kept at it for a while longer, pushing through the awkwardness of adjustment. Venus, despite her initial struggles, refused to give up, Ashley could already see improvement. Apollo and Vulcan had been taking turns getting used to their evolved forms as well, testing their new range of movement and power. Apollo was still adjusting to the way his elongated body moved in the air, occasionally misjudging his own speed and nearly crashing into the floor more than once. Vulcan, on the other hand, was relishing his new strength, sprinting across the training area with an impressive display of speed, but stopping was another matter entirely.

After a particularly enthusiastic sprint that resulted in Vulcan skidding to a halt mere inches from crashing into Ashley, she decided they’d done enough for now. “Alright, alright, break time before someone ends up going through a wall,” she announced, raising her hands in surrender. Venus paddled to her trainer, looking up at Ashley expectantly. Ashley knelt down, patting her head with a smile.

“Hey, don’t worry,” she said, patting Venus again. “It’s your first attempt. I’d be more worried if you suddenly mastered it on your first try.”

Venus still looked unconvinced, her large eyes filled with uncertainty. Ashley sighed, kneeling beside her again. “Listen, evolving into a Water-type isn’t just about learning moves. It’s about feeling the element. You used to be a land Pokémon, but now? Water is your home. You just have to learn to trust it.”

Venus blinked up at her, still hesitant, but there was a quiet determination in her gaze. Ashley gave her one last reassuring scratch behind the ear before standing up. “We’ll get there. For now, let’s rest.”

The group migrated toward the far side of the training area, settling against the walls as their Pokémon dug into well-earned snacks. Nate’s Sandslash had joined Gary’s Wartortle, Eva’s Ivysaur, and Ashley’s Apollo, Venus, and Vulcan on the floor, happily munching on PokéPuffs. Meanwhile, the trainers grabbed drinks and sank onto the ground, finally relaxing after hours of training.

Eva stretched her legs out in front of her, rolling her shoulders as she took a long sip from her juice. “Honestly, I still can’t believe I managed to get third place,” she said, grinning at her Ivysaur, who was happily munching away on a PokePuff. “I mean, I knew my team was strong, but seeing all the strategies in this tournament? I was sweating.”

Ashley snorted, swirling her straw absentmindedly in her cup. “Are you kidding? You gave me a serious run for my money back there. That Tangrowth was a menace. And let’s not forget how your Exeggcute wiped out Chione. That battle could’ve gone either way.”

Gary, leaning back against the wall with his arms crossed, smirked. “Yeah, yeah, but we all know that Ash was gonna win. She’s been steamrolling her way through this journey.” He nudged her playfully with his foot. “Seriously, if you don’t make it to the Indigo League finals, I’ll be personally disappointed.”

Ashley rolled her eyes but smiled. “No pressure, huh?”

Nate groaned loudly, rubbing his face with both hands before letting them drop to his lap. “Ugh, you might have had a solid goal in mind with this tournament, but now I have to figure out what to do with this stupid amount of money.” He gestured vaguely to his bag, where his runner-up prize sat. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love prize money, but this is more than I’ve ever had at one time. I don’t even know what to do with it.”

Ashley tilted her head, glancing at him. “Have you thought about investing in some good TMs? They gave you a voucher for a free TM with that money. I mean, you specialize in Rock and Ground-types, right? There are a ton of good coverage moves you could teach them.”

Gary nodded in agreement. “Yeah, you could go for something like Rock Slide or Earth Power—heck, maybe even Stone Edge if you want that raw power.”

Eva tapped her chin thoughtfully. “Or if you want some real flexibility, maybe something unexpected? A lot of Rock-types can learn moves like Thunder Punch or Fire Punch, depending on the Pokémon.”

Nate made a face. “Thunder Punch? With what hands?” He gestured to his Sandslash, who looked up momentarily from his PokePuff before turning his attention back to it. “These claws? They’re made for digging, not punching.”

Ashley grinned. “I mean, hey, if you catch a Rhyperior down the line, then Thunder Punch might not sound so crazy.”

Nate hummed in thought, looking at his voucher like it held the mysteries of the universe. “I do like the idea of Earth Power, though,” he admitted. “A good special attack option could throw people off since everyone expects Rock and Ground-types to just smash things.”

Gary nodded approvingly. “Solid choice.”

Ashley took another sip of her juice before glancing at Eva. “So, what about you? Any big plans with your prize money?”

Eva shrugged but looked satisfied. “Honestly? I think I’m gonna invest it in training supplies. Maybe buy a few better healing items, get some vitamins for my team, that kind of thing. And, of course…” She smirked, eyes twinkling mischievously. “I will be ordering a custom kimono from that tailor I told you about.”

Ashley gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. “You’re living my dream! You still have to pass me the contact.”

Eva laughed. “I will do it later today, promise.”

“That tailor is in Celadon City, right?” Nate asked. “I still have not gotten the Rainbow Badge, any pointers? I need to make sure my team is ready for Celadon Gym. Erika isn’t gonna make things easy for me.”

Gary scoffed. “No kidding. Her Gym wrecked me. Three times.”

Ashley and Eva turned to stare at him. “Three times?” Ashley repeated, trying not to laugh.

Gary groaned, rubbing his forehead. “Yeah, yeah, go ahead, laugh it up. Those status moves are brutal.”

Ashley patted him on the shoulder. “It’s okay, Gary. We all have our embarrassing battles.” She grinned cheekily. “Like how you totally chickened out of entering this tournament.”

Gary sputtered. “I did not chicken out! I strategically saved my energy!”

Nate chuckled. “Sure, man. Keep telling yourself that.”

Ashley stretched, finishing the last of her juice and setting it aside. “Well, if nothing else, today was a huge success. Vulcan, Venus, and Apollo are getting used to their new forms, we got a ton of good training in, and someone has some very important TM decisions to make.”

Nate sighed dramatically. “Fine, fine, I’ll pick Earth Power. But only because you guys won’t stop bullying me.”

Gary smirked. “It’s for your own good.” Gary then turned towards his childhood friend, with a frown on his face. “You won’t escape me today, I want answers, Ashy. I still can’t believe you—Miss ‘I’m-Gonna-Crush-Every-Gym’—are also a Coordinator.” He looked Ashley up and down like she had suddenly transformed into a completely different person. “Seriously, when did this happen?”

Ashley smirked as she leaned back against Vulcan’s side, her newly evolved Arcanine had moved to curl up beside her, his tail occasionally wagging against the floor. “Oh, come on, Gary. You say that like you don’t know me. I’ve always had style.” She flipped her hair dramatically for emphasis. “Besides, Contests are fun—a totally different type of battle that requires just as much strategy as Gym Battles. Plus, it gives my team a chance to show off their skills in a way that’s not just about knocking out the other Pokémon.”

Gary snorted. “Yeah, yeah. Next thing I know, you’ll be telling me you’re also training to be a Ranger or something.”

Ashley grinned. “No, but now that you mention it—"

“No!” Gary cut her off, throwing his hands up. “You’re already doing too much!”

Nate chuckled, flipping through one of the cruise pamphlets he had grabbed earlier. “Actually,” he interrupted, pointing at a section of the brochure, “if you really want to see Ashley in full Coordinator mode, we might get the chance sooner than expected.” He turned the pamphlet around so everyone could see. “Looks like the cruise is making a stop in Chrysanthemum Island, and they’re selling tickets for a Pokémon Contest happening there.”

Ashley sat up so fast she nearly knocked Venus, who had been lazily lounging across her lap, onto the floor. “WHAT?!” She scrambled forward, snatching the pamphlet from Nate’s hands and scanning it with wide, excited eyes. “No way! A Double Performance Contest?” Her head snapped up, her expression already shifting into determination. “I have to enter this!”

Eva laughed at her reaction. “Wow, you didn’t even hesitate.”

Ashley waved the pamphlet in the air. “Of course I didn’t! This is perfect practice for the Grand Festival!” She turned to the others with an eager grin. “Okay, help me brainstorm. I need to come up with a performance and decide which Pokémon I’m using.”

Gary sighed, rubbing his temple. “We’ve lost her,” he muttered. “She’s gone full Contest mode.”

Eva nudged him with a smirk. “Come on, you can’t tell me you’re not a little curious.”

Gary grumbled something under his breath but didn’t outright refuse to participate. Ashley took that as a win. Ashley grinned. “Okay, okay! Let’s think about this logically. Since it’s a Double Performance, I need two Pokémon that complement each other, both visually and in battle synergy.”

Nate leaned forward, resting his arms on his knees. “Well, you could go classic fire and water—Vulcan and Venus would make a crazy cool visual contrast.”

Ashley hummed, considering it. “True, but they just evolved. I want to give them more time to get used to their size before we try something flashy.”

Eva tapped her chin. “How about something with movement? Like Apollo and Chione? Dragonair and Alolan Vulpix could make a really elegant team.”

Ashley’s eyes lit up. “Ooh! That’s a solid idea.”

Gary rolled his eyes. “Or you could just use Mars and punch your way through.”

Ashley gave him a deadpan look. “Gary. This is a Contest. Not a Gym Battle. Also, I promised my starter no more contests.”

Gary smirked. “You say that, but you are competing.”

She ignored him and focused back on her choices. “Okay, let’s narrow it down. I think I want one elegant Pokémon and one that adds a dramatic effect. Maybe Chione with someone strong and eye-catching…”

Nate snapped his fingers. “How about Apollo and Proserpina? A Dragonair and a Vileplume? Apollo has natural grace, and Proserpina’s movements are bold and flashy.”

Ashley blinked, then gasped. “Oh, my Arceus, that’s perfect! Apollo’s fluid motions with Proserpina’s powerful techniques—yes! That’s would be a good duo!”

Gary sat back with his arms behind his head. “And this is where things get chaotic.”

Ashley grinned. “Nah, it’s where things get fun.”

As their Pokémon finished their snacks and kept lazing around, the four trainers continued brainstorming, as they sat comfortably against the wall, relaxing, joking, and just be trainers—friends—sharing a rare, well-earned break.

Chapter Text

Ashley exhaled deeply, stretching her arms over her head as the sun warmed her skin. The soft rise and fall of Vulcan’s breathing made for the best pillow she could ask for—fluffy, warm, and just the right amount of squishy. The Arcanine let out a contented huff, barely acknowledging the fact that he was being used as furniture.

Mars, curled up against her side, flicked his tail once, the embers at its tip glowing slightly before settling. His eyes were half-lidded, arms folded like he was too cool to be cuddling up with his trainer—but the way he leaned just a little closer whenever Ashley shifted told a different story.

The beach was… fine. It was a little too crowded, a little too polished, the kind of tourist-trap setup with overpriced drinks and beach chairs that cost extra to rent—basically, a Gary Oak paradise. But the sea itself? That was something else. The water was crystal clear, waves lapping gently against the shore, reflecting the bright midday sun in rippling patterns.

And Venus—Venus was in her element.

Ashley propped herself up on one elbow, adjusting her sunglasses as she watched her newly evolved Vaporeon weave through the water. The fear and hesitation that had once stiffened her movements were completely gone now. She ducked beneath the surface, her sleek body cutting through the waves effortlessly before re-emerging with a playful twirl. Neptune trilled in approval, nudging her along with his head, while Gary’s Wartortle and Kingler flanked her, keeping up with the impromptu training session.

Ashley could hear Kingler’s aggressive clacking even from here, which probably meant he was being unnecessarily dramatic about something. Wartortle, on the other hand, was egging Venus on, swimming ahead and looking over his shoulder like he was daring her to catch up. Venus narrowed her eyes, flicked her tail, and surged forward, easily closing the distance.

Ashley grinned. “Look at her go! She’s finally got her groove back.”

Eva, lying beside her on a towel, propped herself up on her elbows and nodded. “Told you she would. She just needed time.” She squinted at the water, watching as Venus easily matched Wartortle’s speed before flipping underwater in a perfectly executed roll. “I think she might actually be faster than Wartortle now.”

Gary, stretched out beside them with his arms behind his head, cracked one eye open. “Hey, hey, hey. Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. My Wartortle has technique.”

Ashley snorted. “Right, because technique totally matters when Venus just smoked him.”

Gary sat up, brushing some sand off his shorts before pointing toward the ocean. “First of all, it’s called pacing. Wartortle is pacing himself. He’s been swimming longer than she has today.”

“Oh, please,” Eva scoffed, sitting up fully. “You realize you don’t have to defend your Pokémon’s honor every five seconds, right?”

Gary scoffed right back. “You realize that it’s not my fault all of my Pokémon are objectively better?”

That earned him a face full of sand.

“HEY!” He spluttered, shaking his head wildly as he tried to get the grains out of his hair. “What the hell, Ketchum?!”

Ashley casually brushed off her hand, not even bothering to look guilty. “Oops. Hand slipped.”

Eva was giggling next to her, trying (and failing) to look innocent as Gary continued his dramatic suffering.

Nate, who had been sitting off to the side watching his Dugtrio and Sandslash have a very strategic game of tag with Mercury, finally decided to chime in. “Y’know, I think this might be the most relaxed I’ve ever seen all of you. I mean, normally there’s a tournament, a training session, or a coordination appeal brainstorm.” He gestured toward Ashley. “You’re actually sitting still. It’s a miracle.”

Ashley huffed, leaning back onto Vulcan again. “It’s called a vacation, Nate. Ever heard of one?”

Nate smirked. “Oh sure, but I didn’t think you had.”

“Wow, thanks,” Ashley deadpanned.

Nate just chuckled before nodding toward the ocean. “But seriously, seeing Venus out there like that? That’s gotta feel good. She was totally out of it when she first evolved. I can’t believe it’s only been a week since.”

Ashley’s gaze softened as she watched Venus dive under the water again, this time disappearing for a good few seconds before surfacing with a splash. “Yeah… she had it rough. I mean, imagine one day having a completely different body, completely different instincts. It’s not a normal evolution where you just get bigger or faster—she went from a land-based Pokémon to an aquatic one in a few minutes.”

Gary rubbed the back of his neck. “I get that. I’ve seen many Pokémon in Gramps’ ranch going through something similar. They are totally thrown off at first—not used to how their bodies felt.” He shrugged. “Takes a while for them to adjust, but once they do? They owned it.”

Ashley nodded. “Exactly. Venus just needed time. And a little help.” She shot a glance toward Neptune, who had taken up the role of patient big brother, letting Venus swim circles around him while occasionally nudging her into different currents to get her used to the push and pull of the sea. “I owe a lot to Neptune. He helped her figure things out way faster than I could have.”

Eva smiled, resting her chin in her hands. “I love that. Pokémon helping Pokémon. It’s like a built-in support system.”

Nate smirked. “Or, y’know, they just get tired of watching their teammates struggle and decide to do the job themselves.”

Ashley laughed. “Honestly? Probably a mix of both.”

At that moment, Venus let out a sharp, playful cry before leaping out of the water in a full arc, twisting midair before splashing back down. Wartortle whistled in appreciation, Kingler clacked his pincers like some kind of judge at a diving competition, and Neptune let out a proud trill.

“Show-off,” Ashley muttered, but she couldn’t keep the smile off her face.

Gary scoffed. “You say that like you didn’t just have a full proud-mom moment.”

Ashley pointedly ignored him.

Mars grunted beside her, clearly unimpressed with all the water-type nonsense, and curled further into the warm sand. Meanwhile, Mercury had abandoned his game with Dugtrio and was now digging into the shore with the intensity of a Pokémon possessed, his tiny paws a blur of motion as he kicked up sand in all directions. His fluffy tail wagged so hard it could’ve powered a windmill, and his ears were perked in full treasure-hunting mode.

Eva blinked, watching a fresh spray of sand fly past her leg. “Uh, what exactly is he doing?”

Ashley let out a long, suffering sigh, crossing her arms as she watched her hyperactive Eevee go full-on archaeologist. “Probably trying to tunnel to Sinnoh.”

Gary smirked. “Well, tell him to send a postcard when he gets there.”

Nate shook his head with a knowing chuckle. “Nah, knowing Ketchum’s luck, he’ll somehow unearth some crazy rare fossil or stumble onto a hidden treasure chest.”

Ashley threw up her hands, exasperated. “I get lucky ONE TIME—”

Eva, Gary, and Nate all shot her identical, unimpressed looks.

“…Fine, maybe a few times.”

Gary snorted. “Yeah, like the time you tripped over a rock and found a buried TM under it? Like who in the Distortion World ends up finding a Shadow Ball TM on the first day in an island?! Do not get me start it with you going treasure hunting as a joke and finding an Ice Rock just floating around an Intertidal Reef—”

Ashley groaned, rubbing her temples. “Okay, okay, we get it, the universe has a twisted sense of humor when it comes to me.”

“Yeah,” Nate muttered. “A profitable sense of humor.”

At that moment, Mercury let out a sharp bark, tail wagging even harder, his entire body half-buried in the hole he’d dug. His paws scraped frantically against something in the sand, and a second later, there was a small metallic clink.

Ashley blinked. “Oh no.”

Eva leaned forward. “Oh yes.”

Mercury whipped around, looking victorious, his mouth now clutching onto something shiny. He trotted back proudly, his chest puffed out like he had just uncovered an ancient relic. Ashley knelt down, prying the object gently from his jaws before dusting off the sand. The moment she got a good look at it, her eyes widened.

“…You have got to be kidding me.”

Gary leaned in. “What is it?”

Ashley held it up, the sunlight glistening off the metallic sheen.

A Metal Coat.

There was a moment of pure silence.

And then—

Nate burst out laughing. “WHAT DID I JUST SAY?!”

Gary pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling. “This isn’t even luck anymore. This is a phenomenon.”

Eva clapped her hands together. “Okay, seriously, is Arceus, like, personally watching over you?”

Ashley groaned dramatically. “I CAN’T CONTROL IT.”

Mercury, entirely unbothered, wagged his tail happily and immediately dove back into the sand, fully intent on finding more treasure.

Ashley narrowed her eyes at him. “Merc, if you find an Eviolite in there, I’m putting you in a lab.”

“Too late,” Gary muttered, smirking. “You should be put in a lab.”

Ashley shot him a look, then sighed, shaking her head before tossing the Metal Coat toward him. “Here. You’re the one with a Scyther—you take it.”

Gary caught it with one hand, blinking. “Wait, seriously?”

Ashley shrugged. “I have zero use for it. But you? I’m pretty sure your buddy is eager to evolve.”

Gary turned the Metal Coat over in his hands, considering it. “…You’re not wrong.”

Nate crossed his arms. “Okay, but now I wanna know—how far does this insane luck go?” He turned to Mercury, who was still digging like his life depended on it. “If I start digging, am I gonna find something rare too?”

Ashley smirked. “Only one way to find out, buddy.”

Without hesitation, Nate dropped to his knees and started shoveling sand with both hands.

Gary facepalmed. “Oh, my Arceus.”

Eva, cackling, leaned forward with mock seriousness. “If you unearth an evolutionary stone, I’m gonna start believing in destiny.”

Ashley just sat back, watching the chaos unfold, completely resigned to whatever absurdity was about to happen next. Because, knowing her life?

It wasn’t a question of if something ridiculous would happen.

It was a question of when.

The sound of the waves mixed with the distant laughter of other beachgoers, the scent of salt and sunscreen lingering in the air. For once, there was no urgency, no battle waiting to happen, no looming challenge. Just the sun, the sand, and the sheer ridiculousness of their friend group. Nate was still digging around for a buried treasure, while Mercury had had enough and started building a sandcastle with Dugtrio and Sandslash. Much to Ashley’s relief, a TM, an Ice Rock, and a Metal Coat are more than enough.

She will never go treasure hunting again!

Ashley adjusted her sunglasses, squinting against the sun when the familiar voice reached her. She didn’t even need to turn around to know who it was—the energy was way too familiar. A grin split across her face as she nudged Mars off of her. The Charmeleon grumbled at the disturbance but didn’t fight her as she stood up, brushing sand off her legs.

“Damian!” she called, her voice full of excitement as she jogged toward him.

The young man waved with that same easy confidence he always carried, his Hitmonchan walking beside him with a steady, measured stride. As soon as she was close enough, Ashley pulled him into a quick, firm hug, patting his back before stepping back with a bright smile.

“Man, what are you doing here?” she asked, hands on her hips.

Damian chuckled, shaking his head. “Please, like I’d pass up a chance to hit up Chrysanthemum Island.” He gestured around them with a lazy smirk. “Beaches, good food, and the upcoming Contest? I’d be an idiot not to be here.”

Ashley rolled her eyes but grinned. “Yeah, yeah, always about the performances with you.”

“Of course,” Damian shot back. “And don’t act like you’re not here for the same reason.”

Before she could respond, Ashley glanced around. “Wait—where’s—?”

Right on cue, chaos erupted.

The sandcastle that Mercury, Sandslash, and Dugtrio had been working on suddenly moved. Not a small shift. No, this thing came alive. The whole structure lurched forward with a low, echoing booooo, sending the Pokémon scrambling in absolute terror.

Mercury yelped, fur puffing out like he had just been hit by a Thunder Wave, and bolted toward Ashley at full speed. Without thinking, she caught him, stumbling back slightly as the fluffy Eevee practically buried himself into her arms.

Sandslash dove into the sand and disappeared in a flurry of dirt, while Dugtrio shrieked in their weird, synchronized triple voices before tunneling underground at a frankly impressive speed.

Ashley cackled, holding Mercury up as she ruffled his fur. “Oh, come on, Merc. There’s nothing to be afraid of!”

Mercury whined, ears flattened, fully committed to the wronged victim act.

She turned back toward the sandcastle, which was now just vibrating ominously. Narrowing her eyes, she pointed a finger at it. “Haunter. Stop messing around.”

The castle collapsed instantly, and from the pile of sand, a dark purple mass emerged, spinning around her in wild, playful circles. Gengar grinned with that signature, mischievous look, clearly pleased with himself before stopping on the other side of Damian.

“No way!” Ashley’s eyes widened. “You evolved? So proud of you buddy!”

Damian, completely unfazed, just smirked. By this point, Gary, Nate, and Eva had wandered over, each of them giving Damian a once-over. Gary, in particular, looked less than thrilled about the mysterious guy suddenly showing up and hugging his little sister.

Nate, ever the casual one, was the first to speak. “Alright, so who’s this?” He jerked a thumb toward Damian. “You got another rival we didn’t know about, Ketchum?”

Ashley smirked. “Yep. Guys, this is Damian—my other rival.” She nudged his arm. “And before you ask, yeah, he’s the Contest kind.”

Gary, arms crossed, immediately looked mildly less suspicious. “Huh. So, you’re that Damian.”

Damian arched a brow. “That Damian?”

“The guy from Saffron,” Gary specified. His usual overprotective stance about random guys around Ashley softened as he nodded in understanding.

Damian, on the other hand, tensed at the mention of Saffron. He allowed his gaze to drift over Ashley’s team, looking for a distraction. His expression shifting into something both impressed and nostalgic. His eyes landed on Vulcan, who was still sprawled out in the sand like the oversized, fire-breathing pillow that he was. With a low whistle, Damian took a step closer, giving the Arcanine’s thick mane a good ruffle.

“Man, would you look at you,” he said, shaking his head in amusement. “You’re definitely not the little pup I remember.”

Vulcan cracked open one eye, huffed, and let his tongue loll out lazily—very much embracing his new massive and unbothered energy.

Ashley grinned, patting Vulcan’s side. “Right? I keep telling people he’s still the same goofball, just way heavier.”

Damian smirked. “Yeah, I bet you realized that real quick the first time he tackled you.”

Ashley groaned. “Do not remind me. My back is still recovering.”

Gary, arms crossed, smirked. “You say that like you didn’t immediately forgive him because he’s ‘so fluffy.’”

Ashley shot him a glare. “Listen. That is classified information.”

Damian chuckled but then tilted his head, finally noticing the shivering ball of fur still clinging to Ashley’s chest. He blinked. “Okay, hold on. Who is this? Because the last time I checked, the Eevee I knew was a whole princess, and this guy?” He leaned in slightly, watching as Mercury’s ears flattened even further. “This guy looks like he just saw a Ghost—”

Right on cue, Gengar materialized directly behind Damian.

“Boo.”

Damian flinched—just a tiny, almost unnoticeable jolt—but that was enough for Ashley to immediately latch onto it.

“Ohhhh, no way,” she gasped, beaming as she pointed at him. “Did Gengar just get you?”

Damian cleared his throat, schooling his expression into one of forced calm. “No.”

Nate raised an eyebrow. “That looked like a flinch.”

“It was not a flinch,” Damian argued, brushing nonexistent dust off his jacket.

Eva, giggling, looked at Gengar. “Do it again.”

Gengar grinned wickedly and phased through Damian’s back, making his shoulders twitch involuntarily.

“Okay, fine,” Damian admitted, throwing his hands up. “Maybe I wasn’t expecting that, alright?”

Ashley snickered, shifting Mercury in her arms before shaking her head. “Anyway—this little guy is Mercury. He’s new.”

She smoothed out the fur on his head, though it immediately puffed back up.  Mercury squeaked indignantly but made no effort to defend himself, still staring at Gengar like the Ghost-type was his personal boogeymon.

Damian huffed out a laugh. “Alright, alright, so where’s Venus then? You can’t tell me she turned into a coward too.”

Ashley beamed, barely containing her excitement as she turned and pointed toward the water.

There, moving seamlessly through the waves, was Venus.

She glowed in the sunlight, her sleek, wet fur catching the light as she dove under a wave and resurfaced with a smooth flick of her tail. Neptune rumbled in amusement beside her as she effortlessly twisted through the water, circling Kingler and Wartortle like she’d been a Water-type all her life.

Damian stared for a second, then let out a slow chuckle, shaking his head. “No way.”

“Yes way!” Ashley turned back to him, practically bouncing. “She evolved!”

The sheer pride in her voice was impossible to miss, and Damian couldn’t help but smile at the sight. “Man, that’s awesome!”

Gengar had taken off toward the water at full speed, floating with a ridiculous amount of enthusiasm. He zipped across the surface like some kind of deranged water ghost, stopping just short of colliding with Kingler and Wartortle.

The two Water-types immediately stiffened, snapping to attention like someone had just thrown a Voltorb into their personal space.

Kingler clacked his pincers aggressively, eyes narrowed.

Wartortle crossed his arms, giving Gengar a long, slow blink that clearly said, What in Arceus’ name are you supposed to be?

Neptune, ever the composed one, simply tilted his head.

Venus, however? She let out an excited trill before launching herself toward Gengar, water cascading off her sleek form as she bounded through the shallows.

Neptune followed suit, swimming up beside her with a happy rumble.

Kingler made a grumpy clacking noise—probably something along the lines of, We just got used to the last new addition—but Wartortle just shrugged, apparently deciding that if Venus and Neptune were cool with this floating menace, then he’d allow it.

Venus wasted no time making her way onto the beach, her smooth body glistening as she shook off some of the water. She trotted up to Damian and Hitmonchan, eyes bright and full of recognition.

Damian knelt down as Venus nuzzled against his hand, giving her a few firm pets. “Look at you, all grown up,” he said, grinning as he ran his fingers along her now-sleek skin. “Guess you’re not the little fluffball from Saffron anymore, huh?”

Venus purred—a low, almost musical chime—before she turned her attention to Hitmonchan. The Fighting-type stood with his arms crossed, observing her with a thoughtful nod before giving her an approving pat on the head.

“It’s kinda nice seeing them all together again.” Ashley commented. “After… everything that happened in Saffron, I think we kinda needed this.”

There was a brief pause.

A memory hung in the air for a second—one neither Ashley nor Damian needed to say out loud. Saffron had been chaos, a nightmare of a situation that had pushed all of them to their limits. But it had also forged something strong.

Their teams had fought together. Had won together.

Had survived together.

Damian exhaled, patting Venus one last time before standing up. “Well,” he said, flashing a grin, “looks like we’ve got one more thing to celebrate, huh?”

Ashley smirked. “Duh.”

Nate stretched, cracking his knuckles. “Sooo, are we still eating first, or is this about to turn into a full-blown beach battle?”

Gary scoffed. “Obviously food first.”

Eva clapped her hands together. “Yes, thank you! Someone with priorities.”

Ashley, still smiling, patted Venus on the head before nudging her toward the water. “Go back and swim a little longer,” she said. “We’ll come get you guys when it’s time to eat.”

Venus let out an excited chirrup before bounding back toward the ocean, Neptune trailing behind her as Gengar twirled midair and shot after them.

As the trainers turned and started heading toward the food stalls, Damian chuckled. “Man, it’s never boring with you, is it, Ketchum?”

Ashley threw her arm over his shoulder with a smirk. “Never.”

As they walked toward the food stalls, the chatter was lively—mostly Nate loudly debating with Eva about which food stand had the best deep-fried bites. Once they had their purchases, they made their way back, savoring the food.

Eva, ever the curious one, turned to Damian. “So, are you competing in the Chrysanthemum Island Contest?”

Damian grinned, taking a bite from his deep-fried bites. “Of course. You think I’d skip out on a chance to redeem myself?” He shot Ashley a playful side-eye. “I might’ve lost Saffron, but I’m winning this one.”

Ashley snorted, shoving a bite into her mouth. “Oh, you think.”

“I know,” Damian corrected smugly. “You got me once, Ketchum, but I’ve been working on some new routines. This time? I’m not going easy.”

Ashley smirked, tilting her head. “Neither am I.”

Gary groaned, rubbing his temples. “Oh, great. Here we go again.”

Eva giggled. “Come on, it’s fun watching them go at it.”

Nate, who was now very done listening to the contest debate and apparently ready to switch gears, perked up as he got rid of the paper wrap as he finishes his food. “Okay, okay, I got a better idea—before you two start throwing Poké Balls at each other, let’s do a beach volleyball match.” He jabbed a thumb at Damian. “You and Hitmonchan versus me and Eva.”

Damian blinked, then glanced at his Hitmonchan, who was stretching his arms in a very battle-ready way. He smirked. “Oh, we are so in.”

Eva cheered, already rolling up the sleeves of her cover-up. “Yes! Prepare to get wrecked.”

Ashley shook her head, chuckling. “Oh, this is gonna be good.”

She and Gary stepped back toward a more shaded part of the beach, close enough to watch but far enough to not get hit with sand shrapnel.

Damian grabbed the ball, tossing it up and catching it with ease. “Alright, let’s make this interesting—first to fifteen.”

Nate cracked his knuckles. “Deal.”

Hitmonchan, already in a fighting stance like this was an actual battle, nodded firmly.

Ashley sat down in the shade, stretching her legs out while Vulcan plopped down beside her with a heavy sigh. Gary, standing nearby with his arms crossed, was watching the game unfold with an amused smirk.

Then, with no real transition, he muttered, “You really do make friends everywhere you go, huh?”

Ashley raised an eyebrow, adjusting her hat. “Uh, yeah? I talk to people. That’s kinda how friendships happen.”

Gary exhaled sharply, shaking his head. “It’s just… I don’t know. You’ve never had a problem with it. You just go places, meet people, and suddenly they’re in your life.”

Ashley shrugged. “It’s not that hard, Gary. You could do it too, y’know.”

Gary scoffed. “Right. Because I totally have time for that.”

Ashley gave him a look. “No, it’s because you don’t make time for it. You cruise through everywhere, meet people, make nice for five minutes, and then move on before it can turn into anything real.”

Gary’s jaw tightened slightly, but he didn’t interrupt.

Ashley sat up a little, brushing some sand off her legs. “Not everybody is after the Oak name, Gary.”

He exhaled, glancing at the ground.

Ashley leaned back onto her palms, looking out at the ocean where Venus and Neptune were still gliding through the water. “I wasn’t.” Her voice was softer now. “I mean, come on, even after how much of a jerk you were to me, I still stayed, didn’t I?”

Gary was quiet for a second. He didn’t look at her—he just watched the game in front of them, where Nate was currently screaming about a technical foul that absolutely did not exist.

Then, finally, he said, “Yeah. But that’s because you’re special.”

Ashley turned to him fully, frowning. “Gary—”

“No one else is like you,” he continued, still watching the game, his tone unusually serious. “People are different with you. You don’t care about names, reputation, or what anyone thinks. You just are, and people like that.”

Ashley studied him for a second before sighing, leaning back again. “They could be like me,” she muttered. “If you gave them a chance.”

Gary didn’t respond, but the way his fingers tapped absently against his arm told Ashley he was thinking about it.

The volleyball game suddenly erupted into chaos as Nate made a terrible dive, landing face-first in the sand.

“I REGRET EVERYTHING,” he wheezed.

Damian cackled just like his Gengar. “Point for us!”

Ashley and Gary both turned back to the game, and for now, the conversation ended.

But Ashley knew she’d planted the seed.

And maybe—just maybe—Gary would start to see things a little differently.

When the sun set and the moon rose, they all parted ways. The night breeze was warm but carried just enough of the sea air to make it refreshing. The ocean stretched out beyond the massive luxury cruise ship, shimmering under the moonlight as waves gently lapped against the hull. The deck was quieter than usual—most of the passengers were either out enjoying Chrysanthemum Island’s nightlife or winding down in the ship’s lounges.

Nate, Eva, and Damian remained on the island, deciding to go out for drinks, the three of them made a quick and strong friendship. Ashley, however, had only one destination in mind.

The buffet.

Even after two weeks on this cruise, she was still obsessed with the endless mountains of food available at all hours of the day. And as Gary followed her inside, he was doing a terrible job at hiding his amusement.

“You do realize we have literally eaten here every single night, right?” he asked, arms crossed as he leaned against the buffet counter, watching as Ashley enthusiastically loaded up her plate.

Ashley barely glanced at him as she reached for another serving of cheesy scalloped potatoes. “And?”

Gary scoffed, shaking his head. “And you still act like it’s your first time here.”

Ashley grinned, balancing a frankly dangerous amount of food on her plate. “That’s because it never gets old, Gary. It’s like living in a Pokémon Center, but better. Do you know how long I had to survive on vending machine snacks and stale PokéMart sandwiches before this?”

Gary rolled his eyes, grabbing a much more reasonable plate of food before following her to one of the quieter tables near the window. They sat down, the glow of the ship’s deck lights casting a soft reflection against the glass.

Ashley wasted zero time digging in.

Gary took a more casual approach, chewing a bite of grilled fish before tilting his head slightly. “So,” he started, tone lighter than usual, “have you figured out your lineup for the contest yet?”

Ashley swallowed, tapping her fork against her plate. “Yeah, but it’s not like I had many choices.” She ticked them off on her fingers. “Chione and Mercury haven’t been trained for contests yet, so they’re out. Mars would literally set my clothes on fire if I forced him into another one—”

Gary snorted. “Smart call.”

Ashley nodded. “And Apollo, Vulcan, and Venus? They only just evolved. I don’t trust their control over their new bodies yet.” She pointed her fork at him. “And in contests, control is everything. Doesn’t matter how strong your Pokémon are if they can’t land a move exactly how you want it.”

Gary leaned back, nodding thoughtfully. “Makes sense.” He tapped his fingers against the table, thinking. “So that leaves… Proserpina and Neptune?”

Ashley took another bite of food before answering. “Yup.”

Gary hummed. “You do realize that if this were a gym battle, that team would take almost anyone, right? You’ve got Proserpina, your tank, and Neptune, your stormbringer.”

Ashley smirked at the nicknames. “Oh, now you acknowledge how busted they are?”

Gary rolled his eyes. “I always knew they were busted, I just don’t whine about it like your opponents do.”

Ashley snickered but then leaned back in her chair, expression turning more serious. “But contests are a whole different game.”

Gary studied her carefully. “You don’t sound convinced.”

Ashley shook her head, swirling her fork absentmindedly in her mashed potatoes. “I’m not.”

Gary arched a brow. “That’s new. You usually go in ready to win.”

Ashley exhaled, resting her elbow on the table and propping her chin on her hand. “Look, I barely beat Damian in Saffron.” She met Gary’s gaze. “He was literally just a couple of points short from winning.”

Gary frowned, tapping his fingers against the table again. “So, you’re saying he should have beaten you?”

Ashley groaned. “No, I earned that win. But—” She gestured vaguely with her fork. “If the match had gone on for even a few more seconds, he would’ve turned it around.”

Gary leaned forward slightly, resting his arms on the table. “And you think he’s improved since then?”

Ashley nodded. “Oh, definitely. Damian’s not the kind of guy who just sits on a loss.” She smirked slightly. “If anything, losing probably pissed him off just enough to go full hyperfocus mode.”

Gary chuckled. “So, you’re saying he’s me?”

Ashley rolled her eyes. “Arceus, no, he’s way more fun than you.”

Gary placed a hand over his chest, gasping dramatically. “Wow. The betrayal.”

Ashley snorted, shoving another bite of food into her mouth.

Gary shook his head, but his expression turned thoughtful again. “So, what’s the plan, then?”

Ashley exhaled, setting her fork down for a second. “I don’t know yet. I mean, Proserpina and Neptune have the power, and they definitely have the synergy, but… I still need to figure out how to use them in a way that’ll actually stand out.”

Gary nodded slowly. “You need strategy instead of just brute force.”

Ashley smirked. “Exactly. See? You do understand contests.”

Gary scoffed. “Don’t push it, Ketchum.”

Gary only truly understood what Ashley meant the next day as he sat in the stands of the Chrysanthemum Island Contest Hall, wedged between Nate and Eva, watching Damian’s appeal round unfold on stage.

And it was brilliant.

The moment the spotlight hit the battlefield, Damian had stepped forward with absolute confidence, the kind that made even the most casual audience member sit up a little straighter. His Pokémon—Gengar and Hitmonchan—stood across from each other, their stances so perfectly controlled that for a second, it didn’t even look like a contest.

It looked like the opening act of a professional martial arts performance.

Gary leaned forward slightly, arms crossed, watching as the two Pokémon circled each other, Hitmonchan bouncing lightly on his feet, his fists raised like a true fighter, while Gengar hovered midair, grinning like a chaotic menace.

Then, with a sharp flick of his wrist, Damian gave the command.

Hitmonchan lunged—his fists glowing with the energy of a Mach Punch, his movements so fast and fluid it looked like a real battle.

And then—nothing.

The moment his attack should have connected, Gengar simply phased through it, his body shifting into smoke as he vanished on impact. The audience let out a collective murmur of surprise, a mix of excitement and intrigue.

They were going all out, throwing punches, dodging, striking, and countering—but neither of them could actually hurt the other.

So, instead of a battle, it became a performance.

Gary exhaled through his nose. Damn. Ashley wasn’t kidding. This guy really is on another level.

Nate let out a low whistle beside him. “Okay. Gotta admit. That’s cool.”

Eva, who was already clapping way too enthusiastically, nodded. “Are you kidding?! This is amazing!”

The display continued, Gengar now countering Hitmonchan’s Power-Up Punch with a swift Sucker Punch—both moves harmlessly phasing through their targets, making the fight look seamless. It was a dance, a carefully choreographed exchange of attacks that never quite landed, making it feel like watching a legendary showdown between two rivals in an old martial arts flick.

Then, right as the timer began to tick down, Damian delivered his finishing move.

With a single, commanding gesture, Gengar dove forward, Shadow Claw glowing in his hand as he slashed downward—and at the exact same time, Hitmonchan ducked, his fist flashing with Brick Break energy, passing harmlessly through Gengar’s stomach as the Ghost-type’s attack swiped through thin air.

And then—freeze.

The two Pokémon stopped, locked in position, inches from what would have been a final, simultaneous knockout punch.

It was cinematic perfection.

The end of the performance was followed by the audience erupted into applause.

Gary clapped, actually impressed despite himself. “Well, damn.”

Nate nodded. “Yeah, that was sick.”

Eva was practically bouncing in her seat. “That was so cool! And the way they moved—ugh, it was flawless.”

Gary leaned back in his seat, rubbing his chin as he watched Damian take a quick bow before returning his Pokémon to their Poké Balls.

As the Contest Hall buzzed with excitement, Gary, Nate, and Eva stayed glued to their seats, watching the rest of the double appeals unfold on stage. Each performance brought something new—some acts were jaw-dropping, others were hilariously overcomplicated, and a few were… well, straight-up disasters.

Gary sat back with his arms crossed, watching as the next Coordinator stepped up. “Alright, place your bets. Is this one gonna be impressive or a total train wreck?”

Nate squinted down at the contestant—a young girl with a Seadra and a Togetic. “Hmm. Could go either way.”

Eva leaned forward, resting her chin in her hands. “I hope it’s good! I love seeing how people mix up their strategies.”

The lights dimmed, and the next performance began.

The appeal started smoothly enough. The contestant, a younger Coordinator with an energy that screamed “rookie,” stepped up to the center of the stage with an eager grin, her Seadra and Togetic poised for action.

From the get-go, the strategy looked solid on paper. Seadra unleashed a Twister, his spiraling water vortex twisting through the air in a perfect, controlled storm. Togetic’s role was to dance through it, dodging between the swirling currents like a fairy in an enchanted cyclone.

For the first few seconds? It looked amazing.

Togetic twirled elegantly, her tiny wings catching the light as she maneuvered through the air, barely grazing the Twister’s edges while sparkling mist scattered in her wake. She was graceful, dynamic, and visually stunning—a balance of power and finesse that should have made for an impressive showcase.

But then—

It all went horribly wrong.

Gary noticed it first. He narrowed his eyes. “Wait a second. Is she supposed to be that close?”

Then came the moment of realization.

Togetic, a little too excited with her own movements, miscalculated a turn. She drifted too far inward—right into the strongest part of the Twister.

And then?

Togetic got sucked in.

The tiny Fairy-type let out a startled squeak as she vanished into the vortex, wings flailing wildly. A second later, she was violently ejected out the other side, spinning through the air like a badly thrown Poké Ball.

Nate gasped dramatically, grabbing Gary’s arm.
“OH NO, SHE’S GOING DOWN.”

Eva clutched her seat, eyes wide in horrified fascination.
“SOMEBODY CATCH HER!”

Gary, deeply unimpressed, simply raised an eyebrow. “...Well. That’s unfortunate.”

Togetic was now spinning like a completely out-of-control Drifloon, shrieking in an increasingly panicked pitch as she flailed.

But the worst part?

It was headed straight for Seadra.