Chapter 51: Lian Sheng Family, King YanChapter 51: The Winning Streak Family, SwellowAfter bidding farewell to Misty, Ash's group, aiming for Fallarbor Town, continued their down-to-earth journey, and they were now in a scorching wilderness!"Sweat, sweat~ Xiao Gang, is there any water left to drink~ I'm about to collapse~" May felt like she was about to be dehydrated.Xiao Gang looked at the water bottle and shook his head helplessly, "There's none left, not a single drop, and we're still a long way from the next town!""Ah—" May and her brother Σ(ﾟ∀ﾟﾉ)ﾉ"Ah, what should we do! No water... I can't, I'm a little dizzy!" May was about to fall, and Max and Xiao Gang were also about to collapse right after.Xiao Zhi had no choice either, after all, a Water-type Pokémon's Water Gun isn't drinkable, right? Xiao Zhi had to send out Mudkip and Corphish to spray everyone with Water Gun to cool down; at least it could last for a while.Just then, a Camerupt with two volcanoes on its back and an Uncle beside him walked over, "Excuse me, what's wrong with you?"Xiao Zhi briefly explained the situation: "Hello! Because the weather is too hot, we've run out of water, so...""So that's it, then please follow me, my house is just up ahead!" The Uncle warmly invited them."Really?!" Upon hearing this, May, Max, and Xiao Gang immediately revived on the spot, making even Xiao Zhi feel a bit awkward.Afterward, Ash's group followed Camerupt and the Uncle to his house. His family had cleared land in the wilderness, had their own vegetable garden, and because there were few people nearby, they were very hospitable. The family consisted of the Uncle Haruhiko, his wife Yasue, their daughter Yuki, and his mother Mitsuyo, four people in total."We're full! Thank you for your hospitality!" "Pika~" "Eevee~"However, the only special thing was that Max was captivated by a glass of water handed to him by Yuki, his face turning red. As long as Max dared to take a step forward, Xiao Gang was ready to go up and get revenge!!"Oh right, I heard you plan to participate in the Hoenn League tournament, correct?" The oldest, Grandma Mitsuyo, asked."Yes! To be precise, I am participating," Xiao Zhi replied."To tell you the truth, my eldest son Ryohei is just like you; he's traveling outside to become the Champion of the Pokémon tournament!" Yasue said, her eyes revealing pride when speaking of her son."I see! That's why you're especially kind to us then!" Xiao Zhi responded with a smile."Oh right, since that's the case, how about we have a battle!" Grandma Mitsuyo's eyes revealed fighting spirit, "You know, everyone calls us the Winning Streak Family!""Ah~" The sudden battle invitation caught everyone off guard. Haruhiko and the other two also showed fighting spirit towards Xiao Zhi and the other three. The four of them together made a wing-spreading pose and shouted: "We are the Winning Streak Family!"Xiao Zhi and the others (￣ェ￣;)...After all, Xiao Zhi and the other three had eaten their food, so they agreed to just one battle.As Haruhiko led Xiao Zhi and the others to the battle arena, he introduced, "As I just said, my eldest son Ryohei is traveling outside to become the Championof the Pokémon League!"Yasue also added from the side: "With the feeling of cheering for Ryohei, our family often has Pokémon battles!""But battling among ourselves as a family gets boring after a while!" Yuki interjected."Well then, how about a 4-on-4 match?" Grandma Mitsuyo suggested with a smile."Hold on a minute, Max doesn't even have his own Pokémon yet!" May said worriedly, but Max glanced at Yuki and insisted on borrowing a Pokémon for a battle!!"Alright! Then Haruhiko will be the vanguard, Yasue will be the second, Yuki will be the vice-general, and the general will be this old woman!" Grandma Mitsuyo turned to Haruhiko's family and arranged seriously, "To cheer for Ryohei, this battle absolutely cannot be lost!""Yes!" The three replied in unison."Max, then I'll lend you Torchic, you're more familiar with this one!" Xiao Zhi handed Torchic's Poké Ballto Max."Okay! Thank you, Xiao Zhi!"After arriving at the battle arena, they found it to be very well-regulated, and Yuki said this was the result of their family's hard work!The first match was Haruhiko VS Xiao Gang, with Grandma Mitsuyo as the referee.It was Zigzagoon versus Mudkip. Unfortunately, Xiao Gang was careless. Zigzagoon was very agile and could use Thunderbolt, so he was knocked out by Uncle Haruhiko!"Mudkip is unable to battle, Zigzagoon wins, the winner is Haruhiko!" Grandma Mitsuyo first fulfilled her duty as the referee, then praised, "Well done, Ryohei will surely receive this spirit of yours!"Little did they know, Ryohei was not far from home at that moment. He had saved Team Rockets and was pouring out his heart to them, and Team Rockets were currently giving him guidance!!For the second match, Yasue battled May. Seeing Yasue send out Roselia, May recalled that sharp-tongued green-haired Drew and her fighting spirit was immediately ignited. Originally intending to send out Combusken, she directly changed her mind and sent out Beautifly, ready to avenge her previous defeat! She burst out with two hundred percent of her battle power!First, a Hurricane, followed by a Silver Wind, directly caused Yasue to forfeit! Beautifly seemed to break through to Elite Mid-Stage as if releasing a knot in her heart!For the third match, it was Yuki VS Max, Marillagainst Torchic. Because of his good feelings for Yuki, Max originally didn't want to attack.Unfortunately, both Xiao Zhi and Max forgot about Torchic's desire to win. Taking hits passively?! Impossible! It didn't listen to Max's commands either, constantly using Flame Charge. Its Speed Boost ability activated, and its speed got faster and faster. Marill couldn't hit Torchic at all and was actually worn down and defeated! It became Torchic's experience boost, advancing it to the peak of Normal stage! The gap that Mudkip and Ralts had finally managed to close among the three little ones was once again widened!"Chamo~" Torchic looked proudly at the defeated Marill. Seeing this battle situation, May silently said, my Torchic is still cute, this is too brutal!!"Marill is unable to battle! Torchic wins! The winner is Max!"Max... I wanted to lose!!! He cautiously glanced at Yuki."Marill, Marill..." ˃̣̣̥᷄⌓˂̣̣̥᷅ Yuki sadly hugged Marill."Is Marill okay?" Max asked cautiously."You're so mean! Why did you beat it up like this, it's too much!" Yuki glared at Max angrily, "I hate Maxthe most!"Crack!! This time, it wasn't Xiao Gang whose heart was broken, but Max! His first love ended just like that before it even began!!Everyone... Xiao Zhi complained in his heart, I gave you the weakest Pokémon that was even at a disadvantage, and you still lost? I should have given you Mudkip. This terrifying desire to win!! Sigh~ It's fate! Max, this is all I can help you with, the rest is up to you!!May clicked her tongue, Max still needs to work harder!! Xiao Gang said, I'm familiar with this feeling, do you want me to teach you the trick to quickly get over a broken heart?The last match, naturally, was Grandma Mitsuyo VS Xiao Zhi!Mitsuyo wore a white headband for victory and sent out Camerupt! At the same time, Ryohei, under the guidance of Team Rockets, was bringing Team Rockets home. He happened to see this scene and secretly hid behind a Rock.[Camerupt][Elite Late-Stage]"I choose you, Taillow!" "Siba~""Taillow, Wing Attack!" Taillow quickly flew in front of Camerupt, and one Wing Attack directly repelled Camerupt!! "Follow up! Steel Wing!" The silver wings hit Camerupt, knocking it down!"Get up, get up for me, Camerupt! Under this sky, Ryohei, who is working hard somewhere, must also be watching you!" Grandma Mitsuyo activated her revitalization roar!Ryohei behind the Rock heard... I really am watching!Under the effect of the secret technique revitalization roar, Camerupt successfully stood up!Just then, "Siba~" a blue and white light of evolution burst from Taillow's body. Its body continuously grew larger, evolving into Swellow!Everyone... No, it just made Camerupt stand up, how did you evolve?![Swellow][Strength: Elite Peak][Moves: Brave Bird, Air Slash, Hyper Beam...]"Don't be afraid! Camerupt's effort is equal to Ryohei's effort, and Ryohei's drive is Camerupt's drive. Camerupt, use Sandstorm!" Mitsuyo encouraged!Camerupt exhaled a breath, and a Sandstorm rose in the arena!"That's it! Camerupt, use Take Down!" Cameruptcharged towards Swellow. "Swellow, use Brave Bird to decide the match!" "Siba~"The two Pokémon collided. Camerupt was sent flying and became unable to battle!"I actually lost!" Grandma Mitsuyo said to Xiao Zhi, feeling unbelievable yet serious, "You are truly a formidable Trainer! Oh right, if you happen to meet my Ryohei during your journey, I hope you can help me convey something!""What is it?" Xiao Zhi felt the Aura behind the Rock, glanced over, and responded with a smile."That child Ryohei is soft-hearted and doesn't like to compete with others. Asking him to be the Champion of the Pokémon League is too much for him!" Saying this, Grandma Mitsuyo glanced towards the Rock. It was clear she had also noticed someone behind the Rock. After all, this was her home, and these words were specifically for Ryohei: "Perhaps, right now he's troubled somewhere because of this! If that's really the case, I really want to tell him this: If you have found what you truly want to do during your journey, then work hard towards that direction with all your might!""Grandma!" Ryohei behind the Rock was so moved he was about to cry!"You only live once. If you have a dream, it's not a bad thing to work hard and move forward on that path. Our family will always support our Ryohei!"Even Xiao Zhi and the others were deeply moved. No one understands and supports you more than your family!Xiao Zhi said he would definitely convey the message to Ryohei!And Ryohei left with Team Rockets to pursue his dream, and after succeeding, he would return to share it with his family!After Xiao Zhi and the others told the Winning Streak Family, they soon met Ryohei. After encouraging each other, they continued towards Fallarbor Town!To be continued...
Chapter 52 New partner, Meowth!Chapter 52: New Partner Skitty!Ash's group, aiming for Fallarbor Town, had already arrived near the town and were preparing to take a good rest. However, May dared not slack off and began new special training for the Akiba Conference!Since Combusken evolved too suddenly, Maydecided to let Beautifly participate this time. Moreover, May had made great progress and was doing very well with the frisbee, so much so that she became complacent and chatted with Ash and the others while practicing. As a result, she used too much force and threw the frisbee far away!"Oh no, I threw it too far!" May scratched her head awkwardly and stuck out her little tongue at Ashand the others!"Cha Mo~" Combusken came to May and patted his chest, indicating to leave it to him! After evolving, Combusken had become much more reliable!So Combusken went to pick up the frisbee happily. Soon after, "Cha Mo~" Combusken returned with the frisbee and a small pink cat."Great! Thank you, Combusken!" May took the frisbee, looked at the little cat, took out her Pokédex and scanned it: "This Pokémon is..."Skitty...May curiously looked at Skitty: "Wow, so cute! I really want one! Hello, my name is May!""Meow~" Skitty curled up and replied listlessly.Seeing this, May took Skitty from Combusken's arms, "It's very listless!"No matter how much everyone teased it, it had no energy!Ash guessed: "It must have played too much and is too tired!""Then leave it to me!" Xiao Gang's eyes lit up, and he immediately patted his chest to guarantee!Afterward, Xiao Gang excitedly led Ash, May, and Max in a certain direction. Along the way, they encountered many Grass-type Pokémon such as Oddish, Weepinbell, and so on.Soon, they arrived at a Yamako Research Institutewhose exterior was surrounded by flowers and plants forming an archway, and inside were lush flowers and plant vegetation.Xiao Gang excitedly introduced: "Okay, we're here! This is the Green House, the Yamako Research Institute for Pokémon Aroma Therapy!""Pokémon Aroma Therapy?" May asked doubtfully.Xiao Gang tirelessly explained: "Pokémon Aroma Therapy is a method of treating tired Pokémon with fragrance. A magazine once featured a special article on it!"At this moment, a woman with long blue hair saw Ash and the others in the yard and came out to inquire: "Excuse me, is there anything I can help you with?"Xiao Gang started to become infatuated: "Are you Ms. Arisa, the Aroma Therapist? You look even more beautiful in person than in the magazine photo!""This is his real purpose!" Max complained. At the same time, he decided to use the true teachings he learned from Misty! My first love is gone, but I've become stronger!!May explained the reason: "It's like this, this Skittyseems very listless."Everyone was invited in. Xiao Gang rushed straight in, "This humble one will enter through the main door with integrity. I hope you will give me more guidance and forbearance then."Arisa was completely stunned...Max immediately jumped up and twisted Xiao Gang's ear, dragging him away, "Ah! It hurts, it hurts, it hurts..."Subsequently, Ash and the others walked into the Green House through the main door and followed Arisa to the room. Arisa enthusiastically introduced various essential oils to everyone!May placed Skitty on a cushion on the table, "It's this Skitty, please help it!"Arisa picked up Skitty and looked at it carefully, saying: "It does look very listless! However, it's fine, it should just be too tired from playing!"Arisa picked up the beaker of clear water next to her: "Don't worry, I will definitely prepare a fragrance suitable for this child!"Arisa began to select essential oils from the test tube rack to prepare! Xiao Gang was about to say a few more flowery words when he was dragged away by Max.After a while, Arisa finished preparing and sprayed it around Skitty. Even Ash and the others felt comfortable after smelling it. Afterward, Arisa took Ash and the others on a good tour of the Yamako Research Institute! And May chose to stay by Skitty's side! I have to say, May has really grown a lot!When Ash and the other two returned, Skitty was sleeping. "Meow~" Skitty suddenly woke up, looking much more energetic, and started chasing its tail in circles, then spun itself dizzy!Everyone... It seems Skitty was tired like this before. I don't know how fun this tail is!! Seeing that Skittyhad completely recovered its energy, everyone was relieved!"Skitty, I want to catch you!" May squatted down and said to Skitty."Meow~" Skitty also knew that May was taking care of it, and it chose to battle! May then took Skittyoutside the Yamako Research Institute.[Skitty][Gender: Female][Attribute: Normal][Ability: Attract][Strength: Normal Late Stage][Moves: Tackle, Fake Out, Assist...]"Okay! Go, Combusken! Take the stage!" "Cha Mo~"Skitty directly used Tackle and charged over. "Combusken, Double Kick!" Combusken kicked the charging Skitty twice, knocking it dizzy on the ground!"Good! Go, Poké Ball!" May threw the Poké Ball, and it was caught directly without resistance!"Yay! New partner Skitty, I got it!" ٩(*´◒`*)۶ Mayjumped up excitedly. "Cha Mo~"As for Team Rockets~ "I found you, Team Rockets!" "Pika~" "Eevee~" This woke up Team Rockets, who were fantasizing about stealing the aroma and dreaming of being praised by Giovanni!"S-Satoshi?! Why are you here!!" Team Rocketswere shocked."To prevent the peace here from being destroyed, I will mercifully send you away! Pikachu, Thunderbolt! Eevee, Tera Blast!" "Pika~" "Eevee~"Seeing the golden lightning and white light coming, Team Rockets were shocked. Do we not even have a chance to appear?!Bang! "What a nasty feeling!" "Wobbuffet (˃ʍ˂)~"Team Rockets, flying in the air, chatted, "What should we do, Satoshi is getting stronger! We are no match for him now!" "We can't stand still, let's start special training for a while! Let's take revenge on Satoshi in one go and steal Pikachu!" "That's right, meow~ Satoshi is too strange now, he can even find our location and see through our disguises, meow!""Before special training, of course, we have to participate in the Akiba Conference first!" "Wobbuffet~"——————————After Ash returned, "Eh~ Ash, where did you go just now?" May asked curiously."It's nothing, just dealt with a few troublesome guys!" Ash waved his hand."Oh." May nodded and didn't inquire further.Afterward, everyone bought several kinds of aroma beneficial to Pokémon from Arisa, and then, dragging the reluctant Xiao Gang, they said goodbye to Arisa!After May successfully caught her third Pokémon, and because there was no disturbance from Team Rockets during this time, after a brief reunion with the shorts-wearing boy Archie, they separated, and then Ash and the others successfully arrived at Fallarbor Town! And there were only three days left until the Pokémon Contests Akiba Conference!And a large number of Pokémon Coordinators had already gathered here. The first goal for Ash and the others was naturally to go to the Pokémon Center to register and then sign up for the Contests!To be continued...
Chapter 53: May's First ribbon badgeAt the Pokémon Center, there were indeed many Coordinators gathered for the Contests, making Mayfeel 'overwhelmed'. Moreover, there were many beautiful older sisters among the Coordinators, causing Brock to almost lose control, but he was firmly suppressed by Max's powerful ear-twisting technique!Ash, meanwhile, had sent his newly evolved Swellow back and brought over Beautifly, intending to train this Shinny Beautifly well.When Ash returned, he found that there was an additional older sister among May's group. After learning more, he discovered her name was Grace, and she was also a Coordinator. They had met because she had been so engrossed in training Confusion with her partner Medicham that she accidentally controlled Max's glasses!"Hello! I'm Ash from Pallet Town, and these are my partners Pikachu and Eevee!" "Pika~" "Eevee~""Hello! Please guide me, Ash! I've seen your battles! This time, we'll defeat you and win the ribbon badge!" Grace looked at Ash as if facing a formidable enemy."Uh..." May indicated, 'Can you please not ignore me? Only I'm participating this time, Ash isn't! Seriously!'Ash smiled and shook his head in response, "I'm not planning to compete this time; I'm here to accompany May.""Oh~ really?! That's a pity! Then, May, you must do your best!""So, would you like to have a practice match with me?" Ash invited."I'd be happy to. Medicham and I will give it our all!" Grace nodded in agreement.Upon arriving at the battleground, Brock acted as the referee. "Come out, Medicham!" Grace sent out her partner Medicham first.MedichamStrength: Superior late stage"Then, I choose you, Electrike!" "Woof~" A green puppy appeared on the field."Medicham, use Ice Punch!" Medicham floated in the air, striking yoga poses, continuously throwing ice-blue fists radiating cold air. Specks of ice crystals scattered from the sky! Truly worthy of a specialized Coordinator, every attack carried a gorgeous flair."Is that a combination move! Electrike, meet it head-on with Charge, then Thunder Fang!" Blue electric arcs flashed around Electrike as it rushed towards Medicham like lightning, a huge blue electric fang appearing in its mouth. Bang! The two Pokemonwere evenly matched."Wow! Is that a combination move?!" *⁂((✪⥎✪))⁂* For May, combination moves were a whole new world. At the same time, she understood that Ash's battle with Grace was also meant to help her improve and understand her rival Grace's battle style. Thinking of this, May felt delighted!"Medicham, use Confusion!" Medicham unleashed blue psychic energy, trying to control Electrike!"Electrike, Protect! Then use Thunderbolt!" "Woof~" A shield appeared in front of Electrike, blocking Confusion, and then it released blue electricity, knocking Medicham down.Grace's expression changed, and she shouted, "Get up quickly! Medicham!""Electrike, finishing blow! Wild Charge!" "Woof~" Electricity surged around Electrike as it charged into Medicham. Bang! Medicham fainted!"Medicham!" Grace looked helplessly at the fallen Medicham and recalled it. "You tried very hard. Come back and rest!""Good job! Electrike!" "Woof~"Grace came up to Ash. "Ash! You are indeed strong. I won't lose to you next time!"Afterward, Grace bid farewell to Ash's group and returned to the Pokémon Center to rest!Ash, meanwhile, released Beautifly to help Maywith special training for combination moves, aiming for the Akiba ribbon badge! Although Drew came to help, May didn't notice his assistance and instead had a big argument with him.After several days of effort, with Ash's help, Maybarely managed to complete the combination moves. However, Ash specifically prepared a trump card for May's Beautifly against Medicham. As for whether the combination moves would succeed in the competition, it would depend on which side Lady Luck stood!——————————The Akiba Conference officially opened with many contestants, but only four could enter the second round's Gorgeous Five Minutes.As expected, Drew ended with Roselia's Petal Dance, scoring a high 29.6 points. Grace ended with Medicham's High Jump Kick, scoring a high 29.5 points. Both of them were almost certainly through this time.May continued with her previous performance. Although there were no mistakes, she only scored 25.9 points, hovering at the passing line!Jessie also participated this time and, by cheating, got the highest score of 29.7. Ash shook his head. If Jessie had put in effort and not cheated, she would have easily passed, as the others simply lacked performance talent!With the last contestant scoring only 25.8 points, the final ticket to the Gorgeous Five Minutes was given to May, making her feel 'overwhelmed', as everyone else was a top-tier contestant with over 29 points!The second round began with May battling Jessie. During the match, May knocked off the device on Dustox's neck, exposing Jessie's cheating to everyone. The audience began to condemn Jessie, and due to Ash's intimidating presence, Jessie had no choice but to strategically retreat, planning to seek revenge on Ash after her strength improved!It must be said that people in the Pokémon world are very naive; such an obvious cheating device went unnoticed!In the next match, Drew battled Grace. Drew was once again defeated, falling behind in the battle. He originally wanted to take a gamble with Solar Beam, but Medicham used Ice Punch on the ground, causing ice blocks to rise. Due to the physical reflection of light, it was returned to Roselia, and he was OUT!! Indeed, knowledge changes destiny!!The final battle, naturally, was May VS Grace!On the field, "Go, Beautifly!" May unleashed a revitalizing roar, awakening Beautifly, who had been entangled and frozen by her own String Shot, allowing it to break free!Grace decided to end the match. "Medicham, first use a yoga pose, then finish it with High Jump Kick!"Medicham leaped into the air, closed its hands, moved its head left and right twice, and charged towards Beautifly!"Quick, dodge! Beautifly!" Beautifly bravely dodged the attack!Medicham crashed to the ground, injuring its knee. May seized the opportunity, sending a Silver Windto knock Medicham flying, signaling the counterattack! May's protagonist aura began to activate. First, she used a combination of Tackle and String Shot, forming a white silk Twister under Beautifly's rotation. Even Medicham's Confusionwas useless, as it was controlled!Then, using a combination of Silver Wind and Tackle, the normally offensive Silver Wind split into two, becoming a control-type attack. Medicham, who had just managed to break free from the white silk, was controlled again and sent flying by a direct hit from Beautifly!Grace had not given up: "The match isn't over yet! Medicham, use High Jump Kick for a comeback!""Beautifly, use the results of our special training these past few days! Full power Aerial Ace!"Under the effect of Aerial Ace, Medicham was sent flying into the wall!At this moment, the Gorgeous Five Minutes ended. Ultimately, May won the Akiba ConferenceChampion with a score advantage!May was stunned in disbelief..ヽ(^Д^*)/. She hugged Beautifly and happily exclaimed, "I won! I really won! Thank you so much, Beautifly!"And so, May received her first ever medal, the Akiba ribbon badge!"Yay! Big sister won!" Max cheered. Ash and Brock exchanged glances, also feeling relieved. May had grown from a clueless newbie!After bidding farewell to Drew and Grace, Ash's group set off again, heading towards Lavaridge Town!To be continued...
Chapter 54: The Cat's HandChapter 54: Skitty's Cat HandAs the winner of the Akiba Conference, May was now jumping up and down with her ribbon badge, constantly wiping it clean!!Ash and the others smiled helplessly and shook their heads, but for May, who won a ribbon badge in her second Contests, her talent was still very strong, having already surpassed most Coordinators!"Ash, thank you!" May thanked Ash solemnly. If it weren't for Ash, she wouldn't have grown so fast!Ash smiled and said, "This is all the result of your hard work, keep up the good work! There are still four ribbon badges left!""Yes!"Ash's group was now heading towards Lavaridge Town. Fallarbor Town and Lavaridge Town were very close, separated only by Mt. Chimney. Ash's group was now about to cross the Fiery Path at the base of Mt. Chimney!Of course, the journey wouldn't be smooth. May's energetic Skitty suddenly ran out and used Tackleon a Slugma, attracting a group of Slugma to chase them!Ash saw a group of normal-level Slugma. Wasn't this a perfect experience package! "Okay, in that case, let's go! Torchic, Mudkip, Ralts!"The three little ones appeared on the field. Just like that, Torchic became a warrior with one Flame Charge, charging into battle and slaughtering everything. Mudkip, as a mage, continuously dealt damage from the back with Water Gun. Ralts, as a support, used Confusion and Disarming Voice to control, occasionally launching Mystical Fire to finish off opponents."Wow! So amazing! As expected of Ash's Pokemon!" May looked at Ash with admiration. At the same time, she also sent out Combusken. The occasional Superior-level Pokemon that appeared were all left for Combusken to battle!Just like that, with the escort of the three little ones, Ash's group walked out of a cave entrance on the Fiery Path when it was getting dark, preparing to camp!Outside the cave entrance was a grassland. They came to a fruit tree, and under the tree lay a Numel. And May's Skitty started causing trouble again, giving it two slaps. Numel, being a slow Pokemon, hadn't reacted yet, but Ash and the others were already stunned!"Skitty, why are you doing this again!" May, angered, put her hands on her hips and lectured Skitty!At this moment, Numel also woke up. It wasn't looking for revenge on Skitty, it was just hungry and stood up to eat the tree fruit!Ash's group... It got hit and didn't even fight back, what a good attitude!!Suddenly, a Furret appeared beside Numel, and a pleasant voice came, "Dongdong..."Ash's group looked over and saw a beautiful girl wearing a bandana, bringing three Numel towards them. "What! Dongdong, so you were here! I've been looking for you for a long time!"After confirming that Numel was fine, the girl noticed Ash's group. "You don't seem to be from around here! Hello, my name is Yangzi! I live in a ranch nearby and live with Numel!"Everyone introduced themselves, and Xiao Gang immediately rushed forward with hearts in his eyes, "Miss Yangzi, hello! My name is Xiao Gang! To show my affection, please raise me just like you raise Numel!""Ah?" Yangzi was completely stunned!Before Max could act, Numel heard someone trying to steal its food bowl and immediately got angry. It came to Xiao Gang's side and sprayed hot air from its hump at Xiao Gang, making Xiao Gang scream!Yangzi quickly had Furret stop Numel, then comforted Numel, and invited Ash's group to be guests at her ranch, where they could also rest for the night!In return, Xiao Gang immediately made a sumptuous dinner to show his affection for Miss Yangzi!!——————————The next day, Xiao Gang actively helped Miss Yangzi manage the ranch and even employed child labor, bringing Max, the free labor who wanted to experience grooming Numel!Meanwhile, May approached Ash. "My Skitty seems to really like battling, so I want to give it a good chance to compete!""No problem!" Ash nodded in agreement. "Pikachu~" "Eevee~"At this moment, after Yangzi handed over all the ranch matters to Xiao Gang and Max, she walked over with Furret. "Why not consider battling me? I haven't had a chance to battle recently, and I'm afraid my skills have gotten rusty!"May thought for a moment and agreed.Afterward, the three of them came to an open space, with Ash serving as the referee.The battle was naturally Skitty VS Furret!"Listen carefully, Skitty! First, observe your opponent's movements carefully, and then..." Mayinstructed seriously, but unfortunately, Skitty didn't listen and charged directly towards Furret!Seeing Skitty attack, Yangzi counterattacked: "Furret, use Tackle!"Furret rushed towards Skitty. Just as the two were about to approach each other, Furret suddenly turned around, and Skitty started chasing its big tail!"Furret, stop quickly!"Furret immediately braked. The Skitty chasing behind directly crashed into Furret's tail and was sent flying!Next, Skitty did listen to May's commands, but whether it was Tackle or Double Slap, Furret easily dodged them.This made May incredibly anxious. With Yangzi's reminder, she used the Pokédex and discovered another of Skitty's moves - Assist!"Okay! Skitty, use Assist!"Skitty's little claws emitted white light and sent out a small cluster of Ember towards Furret! But Furretdodged it!"Skitty, Encore, use Assist!"Skitty's little claws emitted white light again and sent out streaks of Silver Wind. However, Furretjumped up, avoided the whirlwind, and knocked Skitty away with a Pound!"Okay! The battle is over!" Seeing this, Ashannounced the end of the battle. The level difference was too large, and May's chances of winning if it continued were slim!May picked up Skitty: "Skitty! Are you okay?""It's fine, it'll be okay after a good rest!" Ash checked and replied."By the way, Ash, what kind of move is Assist?! It can use both Ember and Silver Wind, it's amazing!" May asked Ash."The Assist move can randomly use a move from a Pokemon that hasn't been sent out in battle. What move is chosen from among many depends entirely on luck!" Ash explained.May's eyes lit up: "Wow? This Assist move is really interesting!" "Meow~" At this moment, Skitty also woke up.Yangzi took out some Energy Cubes for Pikachu and the others to eat. After talking, it turned out that Yangzi had also participated in a few Contestss."May, your Skitty has quite good potential. Both its speed and the sharpness of its moves are good. After cultivating it for a while, it will perform well in both battles and Contestss!" Yangzi encouraged."Really?! Thank you, Miss Yangzi!" May was very happy to receive the approval of a senior.The next morning, after Yangzi pointed out the direction for everyone, they said goodbye to her and set off on the road to Lavaridge Town, dragging the reluctant Xiao Gang, whose eyes were full of unwillingness!To be continued...
Chapter 55: Action at Yantu MountainChapter 55: The Operation at Mt. ChimneyMt. Chimney is a dormant volcano in the northern Hoenn Region, a very famous place, and its scenery is magnificent!Since we are already here, we naturally have to take the cable car to see the view from the summit! Finally, Ash's group arrived just in time before the cable car departed!"So tired!" May and Max sat down, panting. Even Xiao Gang started to pant, showing how urgent it was for Ash's group to catch the cable car. Xiao Zhi shook his head helplessly from the side. After the transformation by Aura and the Super True New Human physique, he was not comparable to ordinary people!(♡⌂♡) "Wow, what a beautiful view! It's so refreshing!" May lay on the window, admiring the beautiful scenery outside the car, and her fatigue also disappeared!Ash's group was playing with many Pokemon when suddenly, "Pikachu~" Pikachu seemed to sense something and looked to the right. Ash's group also followed his gaze and saw a red helicopter flying by!At this moment, "Eevee~" Eevee also made a sound, pointing to the left. Ash's group turned to the left and saw a blue helicopter flying by!Xiao Zhi frowned. Had Team Magma and Team Aqua started acting again!At this moment, at the summit of Mt. Chimney, an Uncle was holding a detector, searching for the meteorite from a few days ago. He finally found it, but was blocked by Team Magma. Team Aqua had taken control of the control room, and the operating cable car stopped, suspended in the air!!"Ah! Why did it stop? It's so scary!" May and her younger brother were instantly panicked, looking at Xiao Zhi not knowing what to do!Xiao Zhi stood up and said, "It should be Team Magma or Team Aqua. I'll go to the control room to check. You wait here!""Ah~ Wait, Xiao Zhi..." Before Xiao Gang could finish speaking, Xiao Zhi had already opened a cabinet under the bench, which contained a rope with an iron hook for first aid!Then, Xiao Zhi, with Pikachu and Eevee, climbed out through the skylight on the roof of the cable car!May said worriedly, "Be careful! It's too high here!"Xiao Zhi made an OK gesture, rotated the rope a few times, and threw it towards the iron tower, tying the iron hook tightly to the iron tower. He then tied the other end to the cable car!"I'm going over first! You wait for me inside. I'll go find someone to rescue you!" After Xiao Zhi finished speaking, he climbed along the rope towards the iron tower with Pikachu and Eevee!"Got it! Be careful!""Go for it!" "We're counting on you!"After Xiao Zhi, Pikachu, and Eevee reached the iron tower, they descended to the ground and ran towards the summit, colliding with an Uncle carrying a Rock who was running down the slope!"Ah~ Stop... Can't stop, can't stop..."Xiao Zhi stretched out his hand and stopped the Uncle, making him stop!"Phew~ Saved, thank you!" The Uncle thanked him, then said nervously, "Oh no, those bad guys are chasing after me! Run!"Just then, three people in red clothes ran down the slope. The Uncle quickly took Xiao Zhi and hid behind a Rock on the side. "It's Team Magma!""You know them!" The Uncle asked, puzzled.Xiao Zhi nodded and explained, "Yes! Those people are villains who specialize in using Pokemon to do bad things! Hello, my name is Xiao Zhi!""What! Hello, my name is Wobbuffet, and I am a Dr.. I am a scholar who studies meteorites!" After introducing himself, Dr. Wobbuffet showed the Rockin his hand to Xiao Zhi, "It's this, look! Because of it, I'm being chased by them, so I absolutely cannot let it fall into the hands of bad guys!""This should be a meteorite, right?"Dr. Wobbuffet nodded and explained the situation: "That's right, this is a meteorite found near the volcano on top. They suddenly appeared and wanted to snatch the meteorite!"Just then, a Golbat flew over to sneak attack, trying to snatch the meteorite. "Pikachu, Thunderbolt!" Pikachu's golden-yellow electric current stunned the Golbat!"Watch out, Team Magma is here!""The meteorite is here, quickly! Hand over the meteorite quickly or we won't spare you!" one of the Team Magma members threatened.Meanwhile, Tabitha also arrived with the rest of the Team Magma members. Seeing Xiao Zhi, he subconsciously took a step back. "It's you again, kid! You still dare to obstruct our Team Magma! Let's go together and take him down!" At the same time, he released a Mightyena!The rest of the Team Magma members also released Mightyena and Golbat of varying levels!"Then let's try it! Come out! Torchic, Ralts, Mudkip, Corphish, Electrike, Beautifly!"A great battle was about to begin! Pikachu fought Tabitha's Mightyena alone, while the other Pokemon dealt with the other small fry!As a result, the first battlefield to finish was Pikachu's. Pikachu instantly knocked out the Mightyena with one Electro Ball! "How is that possible, you've improved so fast!" Tabitha said in horror. This Pikachu had improved too much since their last meeting!The rest of the small fry were also quickly dealt with by Xiao Zhi's Pokemon!Seeing this, Tabitha knew there was no hope. "Damn it, retreat! Kid, I won't let you off next time!""Yes!" Team Magma immediately left!"Tsk tsk, if you've got the guts, don't run!" Xiao Zhi looked at his Pokemon and found that after a group battle, Ralts and Mudkip had advanced to the peak of ordinary level. Xiao Zhi smiled and nodded, "Everyone worked hard, come back and rest!"Dr. Wobbuffet came to Xiao Zhi's side. "Thank you so much, Xiao Zhi! You are truly amazing!""It's nothing..." Xiao Zhi rubbed the back of his head from the praise, then suddenly remembered, "Oh right! My companions are still trapped in the cable car!""Ah! Then come with me, I'll take you to the control room!"Meanwhile, Team Aqua, hidden behind the Rocks in the volcano crater, saw Xiao Zhi's strength, and Shelly ordered a retreat!!Afterwards, Xiao Zhi and Dr. Wobbuffet went to the cable car control room. After untying the staff, they got the cable car running again, and Xiao Gang and the others were successfully rescued!"Yay! Saved! I knew Xiao Zhi was the best! Thank you so much!" ٩(*´◒`*)۶ May cheered.Xiao Gang pondered, "What are Team Magma doing with the meteorite?! It seems the meteorite has nothing to do with Groudon!""Who knows!" Xiao Zhi shrugged."Wow, this is the meteorite!" Max examined the meteorite in Dr. Wobbuffet's hand.Then, Ash's group said goodbye to Dr. Wobbuffet, and the Dr. pointed in a direction and said, "From here you can reach Lavaridge Town. Xiao Zhi, I believe you will definitely win the Gym Badge! Goodbye, everyone!""Goodbye!" x4Ash's group set off on their journey again, leaving the dormant volcano of Mt. Chimney, and soon arrived at Lavaridge Town in the evening! Xiao Zhi was very much looking forward to the upcoming Gym Match!To be continued...
Chapter 56: Rookie Gym Trainer - AshaChapter 56: The New Gym Leader—FlanneryAs a town at the foot of Mt. Coronet, Lavaridge Town shares the same characteristics as Cinnabar Island in the Kanto Region, with large and small hot springs and sand baths!Ash and the others first checked into the Pokémon Center, then enjoyed a comfortable hot spring bath! After that, they had a good night's rest!The next morning, after eating breakfast, Ash and the others prepared to challenge the Lavaridge Gym! On the way, May shared the hot spring buns, a specialty of Lavaridge Town that she had bought at some point, with everyone!"It's so delicious!" May's cheeks puffed out as she ate, looking very cute. "Pika~" "Eevee~"Ash took a bite, "Hmm, the sweet red bean paste filling is indeed tasty!""Right! Right! Hot spring buns are amazing!"Soon, Ash and the others arrived at the Lavaridge Gym, only to find that no one was opening the door. "Excuse me, is anyone there?" Xiao Gang called out.Just then, a red-haired girl with flames trailing from her coat rushed out of the courtyard. As expected of a Fire-type Gym, even her movements brought flames."So hot... so hot..." Everyone was speechless... This really was a Fire-type Gym. Ash shook his head, "Come out! Mudkip, use Water Gun!" Mudkipextinguished the flames with a shot of Water Gun!"Phew~ I'm saved!" The red-haired girl breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing Ash and the others, she coolly shook off her damp coat. "Thank you!"Xiao Gang's eyes immediately turned into hearts as he rushed forward, "So beautiful, your flames ignited this little one's heart, let's have a burning romance together!"Max twisted Xiao Gang's ear and dragged him away, "Alright, alright! If you want to burn, burn by yourself!"May asked curiously, "But?! Why did your clothes catch fire?""Because I was doing special training for Mag and Mega!" The girl scratched her head awkwardly. As she spoke, two Slugma walked up beside her. The girl squatted down and stroked the Slugma's heads. "Those are the names of these two Slugma. To help them evolve, I was helping them with special training! But I accidentally got burned by the Flamethrower they sprayed! By the way, why did you come here?"Ash explained his purpose: "I'm Ash from Pallet Town, and I'm here to challenge the Gym!""Challenge the Gym! That's great, a challenger has finally arrived!" (✧∇✧) Flannery jumped in front of Ash and said excitedly, "I've been waiting for a challenger to come! My name is Flannery, hello!" She then shook hands with Ash, which made Xiao Gang stare blankly, wanting to push Ash aside and shake hands for him!Afterwards, everyone introduced themselves!"Finally, a Gym Match I can fight! I'm burning up!" Flannery's fighting spirit was constantly burning!"But, I remember the Gym Leader of the Lavaridge Gym is supposed to be an old man named Old Man Mula, right?" Xiao Gang asked, confused by the information he had gathered earlier.After learning more, it turned out that Mula was Flannery's grandfather. Because he fell in love with Professor Oak's haiku, he decided to travel back to his hometown in the Johto Region. He had only handed the Gym over to Flannery three days ago, meaning Flannery was a rookie Gym Leader!However, Flannery was excessively new. Not only did she not renovate the bumpy battleground, but she also didn't know where the Gym Badge, the Heat Badge, was kept, leaving everyone speechless!Just as Ash and the others were searching high and low for the badge, an old man dressed in beachwear with an Afro walked in to borrow the restroom. He helped find the safe box containing the badge on a shelf in the restroom!Anyone with eyes could see that the old man was more familiar with the place than Flannery, so just as the old man was about to leave, "You must be Old Man Mula, right?" Although Ash was asking, his tone was very certain!"Huh~ Grandpa!" ♦(•'╻'• )꒳ᵒ꒳ᵎᵎᵎ Flannery looked at the old man in surprise, "It's true! The more I look, the more it looks like him!"Seeing this, Old Man Mula had no choice but to drop his disguise and nodded in admission!"Grandpa! It really is you, why did you come back!" Flannery asked, confused."Sigh~ Isn't it because I was worried about you!" Old Man Mula sighed, then looked at Ash with appreciation, "Young man, you are very good, your observation is very sharp!"Afterwards, Old Man Mula and Ash and the others worked together to fix the battleground. They enjoyed the hot spring and sand bath at Flannery's house at noon, and the Gym Match officially began in the afternoon!——————————Old Man Mula, acting as the referee, announced: "Now is the Gym Challenge between the rookie Gym Leader Flannery and Ash from Pallet Town, the match is about to begin!"Flannery complained, "Grandpa! The word 'rookie' is unnecessary!"Old Man Mula replied sternly, "Flannery! I am the referee now, you are not allowed to call me Grandpa!""The number of Pokemon used is limited to three, and only the challenger can switch the Pokemonthey are using!""Mag, come out!" Flannery made the first move, sending out a Slugma to battle!"I choose you, Mudkip!" "Gle~" Mudkip looked at the opposing Slugma with fighting spirit![Slugma][Superior Early-Stage]"Ash, you go first!" "Mudkip, Water Gun!""Gle~" Mudkip sprayed a stream of water towards the Slugma."Mag, quickly dodge!" Unfortunately, Slugma was too slow and was hit by Water Gun!"Are you okay, Mag! Don't lose, use Flamethrower!" Slugma spewed an orange flame towards Mudkip. "Mudkip, Water Pulse!" Mudkip gathered a water sphere in its mouth, which collided with the flames, bang! A large amount of steam rose!"Now, Mudkip, Mud-Slap!" Mudkip gathered mud and hit Slugma in the face, blocking its vision! "Go! Mudkip, Water Pulse!""Gle~" Mudkip gathered a water sphere and attacked. "Ah! Mag, quickly use Double Team!" Slugma created countless duplicates, and the Water Pulse hit a duplicate! The rest surrounded Mudkip!Flannery said confidently, "No matter how many shadows you hit, you won't cause any damage!""Return! Mudkip!" Ash smiled and recalled Mudkip, since Mudkip didn't have area-of-effect moves. "I choose you, Torchic!""Chamo~" "Detect, Flame Charge!" Torchic directly saw through the real body and attacked the Slugmaextremely quickly, knocking it away!"Mag! So fast! Come on, don't give up, Mag!" Slugmastruggled to stand up, and a blue-white light of evolution emanated from its body. A huge shell formed on its back, and it became a Magcargo![Magcargo][Superior Mid-Stage]"It evolved! That's great, Mag!" Flannery cheered, "Alright, go! Flamethrower!""Torchic, dodge!" Torchic easily avoided the Flamethrower. Although Magcargo had evolved, it was even slower. Torchic continuously increased its speed, and finally broke through its limits to reach Superior Early-Stage, defeating Magcargo with one Flame Charge!"Magcargo is unable to battle! Torchic wins!"Flannery composed herself, "Go, Mega!"Another Slugma appeared. "Return, Torchic! I choose you, Mudkip!" "Gle~"[Slugma][Strength: Superior Early-Stage]"Mega, Body Slam!""Mudkip, Rock Smash counter!" Bang! The two Pokemon collided. "Mudkip, now! Water Pulse!" "What?!" At such a close distance, Slugma naturally couldn't dodge and was directly knocked away!"Final blow, Tackle!" "Gle~"Mudkip directly tackled Slugma, rendering it unable to battle!To be continued...
Chapter 57: Flame Badge, Fire King MuraChapter 57: Heat Badge, Fire Elite Mula"Slugma is unable to battle, Mudkip wins!" Mulasighed. Flannery's battle experience was still too little!"Meg, you worked hard! It's your turn to come out, Torkoal!" Flannery sent out her last Pokemon.[Torkoal][Strength: Gym Leader Early Stage]Clearly, Torkoal was the ace Mula left for Flannery!"Come back and rest! Mudkip!" Ash recalled Mudkip, then took out another Poké Ball. "Then, Corphish, I choose you!""Heh heh~" Corphish waved its pincers and shouted excitedly."Battle start!""Corphish, use Bubble Beam!" Corphish waved its giant pincers and sprayed a large amount of bubbles.Flannery also said seriously, "Torkoal, use Flamethrower!"The five fiery red depressions on Torkoal's shell glowed red, and a thick orange flame shot out, suppressing Corphish's Bubble Beam with its level advantage!"Corphish, use Harden!" Corphish strengthened its defense and withstood the flames! "Heh heh~""Okay, Corphish, Crabhammer!" Corphish waved its giant pincers, emitting white light, and charged towards Torkoal!"Torkoal, use Withdraw!" Flannery responded calmly. Torkoal retreated into its shell, bang! It blocked the Crabhammer!Flannery seized the opportunity: "Now, use Sludge Bomb!" Torkoal spit out a few balls of Toxic sludge, hitting Corphish head-on!"Oh no, Corphish!" Ash asked anxiously. He hadn't expected Torkoal to use a Poison-type move!"Heh heh~" Corphish stood up again. Fortunately, it was lucky and wasn't poisoned!"Very good, Corphish! Counterattack with continuous Shell Blade!" "Heh heh~" Water blades surged on Corphish's giant pincers and attacked, but as expected, they were defended by Torkoal's shell!"Too troublesome! It's hard to break Torkoal's defense with Corphish's strength!" Ash frowned, thinking of a countermeasure."Good opportunity! Go, Torkoal! Flamethrower!" While Ash was momentarily stunned, Flannerylaunched a counterattack. "Corphish, quickly use Harden!" Corphish first emitted a sheen all over its body, then was enveloped in flames!"Hang in there! Corphish!" Ash said nervously, "Heh heh~" Corphish emitted the light of evolution in the flames!"It evolved! It evolved in battle again!" Maxexclaimed.Corphish's body grew larger, a five-pointed star appeared on its head, and it was no longer its previous cute appearance. It successfully evolved into the aquatic bully—Crawdaunt![Crawdaunt][Strength: Superior Peak][Moves: Swift, Crunch, Hydro Pump, Knock Off...]"Very good! Crawdaunt, Swords Dance! Crabhammer!" Crawdaunt's Swords Danceshredded the flame attack and increased its attack, its giant pincer sent Torkoal flying! This caused Torkoal's shell to flip over and spin continuously, and Torkoal entered a dizzy state!"Final blow! Hydro Pump!" "Torkoal!" The situation reversed too quickly, Torkoal had already been defeated by Crawdaunt's Hydro Pump!"Torkoal is unable to battle! Crawdaunt wins! The winner is Ash from Pallet Town!" Old Man Mulaannounced."Crawdaunt, you did great! Come back and rest!" With that, Ash recalled Crawdaunt.Old Man Mula came to Flannery's side and encouraged her, "Your battle performance was already very good! Ash's strength is still very strong, and I can now rest assured about going out on a journey!"Receiving her grandfather's recognition, Flannerysaid excitedly, "Really?! Thank you, Grandfather!"Flannery walked up to Ash and handed him the Heat Badge. "Ash, thank you for having a great battle with me. I'll give you this Heat Badge!"Ash took the badge. "Great, I got the Heat Badge!" "Pika~ Pikachu~" "Eevee~"[Ding~ Obtained the Heat Badge, Reward: 1000 points]Afterward, Ash turned to Old Man Mula and said, "Old Man Mula, as far as I know, you were the Fire Elite of the Hoenn Region before, right! I want to battle you!""Oh?! No problem!" Old Man Mula readily accepted the challenge!"Huh?! Old Man Mula is actually the Fire Elite!" Maxand the others exclaimed in surprise. They hadn't expected the Lavaridge Gym to be truly hidden!Flannery served as the referee, and one Pokemonwas used!"Go, Typhlosion!" "Boom~" A surge of Elite aura swept across the field![Typhlosion][Strength: Elite Early Stage (Originally Elite Late Stage, strength declined due to old age)]"I choose you, Pikachu!" "Pikapi~" Pikachu looked at the Typhlosion before him with full battle spirit!"Pikachu?! Typhlosion, Fire Blast!" The move Fire Blast's power is higher the more stamina the user has. It seems the old man doesn't intend to go easy at all!"Pikachu, Zippy Zap! Dodge and approach Typhlosion!" "Pika~" Pikachu turned into a flash of lightning, dodging the giant pillar of fire and knocking Typhlosion back!Old Man Mula looked at Pikachu with serious eyes, its speed was too fast! "Now, Surf!" A giant wave surged from under Pikachu, sending Typhlosionflying!"What?!" Mula and Flannery were greatly surprised. Pikachu could actually learn Surf, it was incredible!Old Man Mula gave Pikachu a deep look. "Interesting, Typhlosion! It seems I need to be serious, Earthquake!"Ash smiled at the corner of his mouth, which made Old Man Mula feel a little surprised. Could it be..."Pikachu, Fly!" "Pika~" Just as expected, Pikachuflew into the sky, making it impossible for Earthquake to hurt it!Old Man Mula and Flannery's eyes widened. If Pikachu knowing Surf was a bit surprising, Pikachuknowing Fly was simply out of this world! If they hadn't seen it with their own eyes, anyone who told them Pikachu could Fly would get a big slap to wake them up!"Pikachu, Surf!" "Pika~ Chu~" Pikachu rode the Surfand flew down towards Typhlosion!"Typhlosion, Overheat!" Bang! Boom!!"Pika~" "Boom~" Both Pikachu and Typhlosionstood, breathing heavily."Ash, not bad! Let's decide it with one hit!" Mulasuggested. Ash nodded in agreement, after all, Pikachu didn't have much stamina left either!"Thunderbolt!" "Flamethrower!""Pika~" "Boom~" Bang! Boom!!!As the smoke cleared, both Pikachu and Typhlosionhad fallen and were unable to battle!"Pi... Pikachu and Typhlosion are both unable to battle, it's a draw!" Flannery steadied herself. She knew her grandfather's Typhlosion was Elite-level! It was actually traded with a near-Elite Pikachu!!"The younger generation is formidable!! I'm old, I'm old! This world is still the stage for you young people!" Old Man Mula sighed, then took out a notebook and handed it to Ash. "Ash, this is my experience in training Typhlosion. If you don't mind, please take it!""Experience in training Typhlosion?! This is too precious, Old Man Mula!" Ash quickly waved his hand, refusing."Take it! Refusing is looking down on this old man!" Mula said with a stern face, stuffing the notebook into Ash's hand."Okay! Thank you, Old Man Mula!" Ash bowed respectfully to Mula to thank him. This was an Elite's notebook! With this, Ash's Quilava could grow rapidly![Ding~ First time defeating an Elite, Reward: emerald orb]Ash's eyes widened, emerald orb!! Hiss~ The system is preparing to let him catch Rayquaza!"Ash, you're too amazing! You can actually defeat an Elite level!" May and Max looked at Ash with admiration. You know, when he battled Stevenbefore, he was only near-Elite level, which only showed Ash's great potential. But now, he had truly defeated an Elite, even if it was a one-for-one trade, it was enough to show that Ash had squeezed into the Elite level!Just like that, Ash's group said goodbye to Old Man Mula and Flannery and left the Lavaridge Gym!To be continued...
Chapter 58: Xiaogang and the Heartbroken and Shaky BanChapter 58: Xiao Gang and the Heartbreak Spinda's Unbreakable BondReturning to the Pokémon Center in Lavaridge Town, Ash first handed his Pokémon over to Nurse Joy for treatment, and then exchanged Pokémon with Professor Oak!Ash's team: Pikachu, Eevee, Quilava, Ralts, Mudkip, Electrike, Beautifly, Jigglypuff.Beautifly's level was still relatively low, so the next Contests would naturally be attended by Jigglypuff! As for Quilava, Ash had just received the cultivation notes from Elite Mula, so he could just let Quilavaimprove!Afterward, they returned to the Pokémon lobby to meet up with Xiao Gang and the other two to discuss their next itinerary!"Starting from here, the nearest Gym is naturally the Fortree Gym in Fortree City! But we have to cross a large desert in the middle!" Xiao Gang analyzed and suggested, "How about we return to Mauville Cityfirst, and then go to Petalburg City?"The suggestion was approved by the three. For Ash, who had one win and one loss in his previous practice match with Norman, he would naturally defeat Norman this time to get the Balance Badge!As for May and Max, they had been traveling away from home for so long, and they could finally go home and visit!"Who will win the final match between Ash and Dad?!" Max looked forward to it. If it were before, he wouldn't have to think about it, Norman would definitely win. But after traveling with Ash for so long, and Ash had even defeated the former Eliteand Champion, it made it difficult for Max to choose!After planning the itinerary, Ash's group packed their luggage and set off for Mauville City!——————————Leaving Lavaridge Town, they walked into the forest, and soon climbed a big mountain!"Huh?" Ash's group was stopped by a Spinda on their way forward!May took out her Pokédex and scanned it:Spinda, the Spot Panda Pokémon. It is said that the pattern of each one is different, and its wobbly appearance is used to confuse enemies.At this moment, a large group of Spinda appeared in front of Ash and the others!"It's true, each one is different!" Max observed the group of Spinda and said."So many Spinda live on this mountain!" Xiao Gang exclaimed.(♡⌂♡) May's eyes suddenly lit up and she pointed behind her, "Look, that Spinda has a heart shape on its forehead! It's so cute!"Among the large number of Spinda, the Spinda with a heart-shaped spot in the center was indeed very eye-catching and made people very fond of it!"Spinda!" While everyone was looking at the Spinda, a shout came from behind. Ash turned around and saw a young lady dressed gorgeously, followed by a butler. "So you're here! I've been looking for you for a long time!"However, when the heart-shaped Spinda saw the woman's arrival, it ran away in a flash!"The Spinda that can bring happiness..." Seeing the Spinda run away, the young lady said helplessly.Everyone had to step forward to understand the situation. The young lady's name was Miss Ai Li and the butler was named Royds. After learning about it, they found out that this Spinda was entrusted to her by a friend, and after being with the Spinda, countless happiness had come upon Miss Ai Li. However, she was supposed to return the Spindatoday, but the Spinda suddenly ran away!The horn of Xiao Gang's charge for love was blown again, "No problem! Leave it to me! I will definitely find that Spinda that brings happiness!"Ash shook his head helplessly. Anyone with a discerning eye could see the loving look in Miss Ai Li's eyes when she mentioned her friend, so Xiao Gang was bound to get nothing!However, Ash and the others still decided to help Miss Ai Li find the heart-shaped Spinda that represented happiness!As everyone searched, there were many Spinda on this mountain. They found a few, but unfortunately none of them were the heart-shaped Spinda!"Found it!" Xiao Gang exclaimed. Everyone looked over and saw that the Spinda was sideways, but from the arc on its forehead, it was indeed heart-shaped!Believing that happiness had come upon him, Xiao Gang immediately ran forward, hugged that Spinda, and thought about his happy life with Miss Ai Li!"Caught it!" May and Max cheered. But Ash shook his head, this Spinda was obviously different from the heart-shaped Spinda, it was clearly not this one!Xiao Gang gently held the Spinda, but when that Spinda raised its head, Xiao Gang was stunned in place as if struck by lightning!Everyone looked over and saw that the Spinda's head was not a heart but a heartbreak!"Super unlucky..." Xiao Gang froze in place and released his hands, and the Spinda walked away wobbling! Everyone sighed helplessly!At this moment, Miss Ai Li also successfully found the heart-shaped Spinda, but the Spinda noticed her and ran away wobbling! In the process of Miss Ai Li chasing, she met up with Ash and the others and chased all the way to a beautiful sea of flowers!Miss Ai Li finally understood the Spinda's intention here. This was the place where Miss Ai Li and the Spinda's Satoshi met. At this moment, the Spinda's Satoshi also arrived here. He was a Looker man. Miss Ai Li held the Spinda and looked at the man happily! An atmosphere of love appeared around the two!According to the introduction by the butler Royds, he was an adventurer and also Miss Ai Li's fiancé!"Fiancé!" Xiao Gang was immediately heartbroken by the blow, and the Heartbreak Spinda appeared in front of Xiao Gang again and happily hugged him!Xiao Gang looked at the Spinda with a stiff face, "Unlucky spots..."He immediately started his self-hypnosis method of getting over a broken heart before he got out of the predicament. Xiao Gang immediately stood up invigorated, but an empty Poké Ball fell out!The Heartbreak Spinda looked at the Poké Ball on the ground, then looked at Xiao Gang, and immediately pressed the button on the Poké Ball!"Wait! No!" By the time Xiao Gang noticed, it was already too late. The Poké Ball took the Heartbreak Spinda in without even shaking, and with a bang, the capture was successful!"No--unlucky spots!" Xiao Gang immediately knelt down, held his head with both hands, and shouted to the sky!——————————After bidding farewell to Miss Ai Li, everyone set off for Mauville City and walked into a forest, but Xiao Gang stared blankly at the Spinda's Poké Ball!"Xiao Gang, don't be sad!" Ash comforted him, "If it's willing to follow you, it means you have a high compatibility! Look at Misty's Psyduck, Misty was very troubled at the time, but now it has become Misty's treasure!""Pika~" Pikachu nodded in agreement.Under Ash's guidance, Xiao Gang put away the Spinda's Poké Ball with a complicated expression. After all, since he had caught it, he had to be responsible!"After walking out of this forest, you can see the streets of Mauville City!" Xiao Gang, who had regained his spirits, said confidently.But when Ash and the others walked out of the forest, it was not the streets of Mauville City, but a valley full of gravel.Indeed, taking shortcuts was not suitable for Ashand the others. Taking shortcuts would only waste more time than taking the main road, because Ashand the others were either lost or on the way to getting lost!May and Max looked sideways at Xiao Gang...Max asked, "Why can't we see any sign of the city?"Xiao Gang scratched his head helplessly, "Could it be?! I took the wrong road again!""I hate it, why do you always want to take shortcuts! If I knew it would turn out like this, I would have taken the normal route in the first place!" Maycomplained as she sat on the ground.At this moment, a few figures attracted the attention of Ash and the others.To be continued...
Chapter 59: Coal Turtle and Steel ValleyChapter 59: Torkoal and Steel ValleyAsh and the others saw a Skarmory flying in the air, and below it, three Magnemite were using blue Thunder Wave to suspend a Torkoal in the air, causing the Torkoal great discomfort as it struggled constantly!Moreover, the Torkoal kept spewing flames, trying to attack them and break free, but unfortunately, it didn't hit anything. Instead, it was hit by the Skarmory's Swift and was in great pain!At this moment, the Magnemite suddenly stopped emitting Thunder Wave, causing the Torkoal to fall from a high place!"Oh no!" Ash immediately ran towards the Torkoal, but when the Magnemite saw Ash enter the valley, they immediately sent out a yellow current towards Ash!"Ash! It's dangerous!" Xiao Gang and the other two exclaimed."I choose you, Electrike!" "Woof!" The current was completely absorbed by the Electrike, which had the Lightning Rod ability! Ash took the opportunity to catch the Torkoal!"Alright, next, let's deal with them! Pikachu, Electrike, Thunderbolt! Eevee, Shadow Ball!""Pika~chu~" "Woof~" "Eevee~"Pikachu and Electrike's golden-blue Thunderboltdefeated the Magnemite, while the Skarmory was hit by Eevee's Shadow Ball and lost its ability to battle! At the same time, Xiao Gang and the others also ran over."Are you okay? Torkoal!" Ash put the Torkoal down and asked with concern, while also recalling Electrike into its Poké Ball!The Torkoal immediately had tears in its eyes and thick black smoke puffed out of its nostrils, instantly blackening the faces of Ash and the other three!"Cough cough..." Ash and the others started coughing!At this moment, a roar came from the depths of the valley. While everyone was still wondering, the Torkoal had already run towards the direction of the sound!"So fast!" Ash's eyes lit up. Then, Ash called out to everyone and chased after the Torkoal!After Ash and the others entered the valley, Ashused his Aura to follow closely behind the Torkoal. Boom! Ash and the others heard the sound and quickly sped up. They saw that the Torkoal was facing off against the Skarmory and Magnemiteagain below!The Torkoal was entangled with the three Magnemite, while the Skarmory was circling above, preparing to ambush. Ash quickly jumped down and threw out two Poké Balls, "Electrike, Discharge! Come out, Quilava, Lava Plume!""Woof!" Electrike's blue Quick Attack interrupted the Skarmory! "Boom~" Quilava's area-of-effect Lava Plume dealt with the Magnemite!"Torkoal~" The Torkoal took the opportunity to finish off the Skarmory with a Flamethrower!♡(*´∀｀*)people(*´∀｀*)♡ May and Maximmediately cheered, and May asked strangely, "Why are there so many Magnemite and Skarmoryhere?"Xiao Gang thought for a moment, "Regarding this, if I'm not mistaken, we must have accidentally entered Steel Valley!"Max also remembered, "That's right! Steel Valley is the place Nurse Joy told us never to go near before entering the Forest!""That's right, she said that the Steel-type Pokémon living here are very territorial, and it would be very dangerous if we accidentally entered this place!" Xiao Gang nodded and analyzed the current situation, "Given that, this Torkoal probably also accidentally entered this place and was attacked by them!"The Torkoal heard this and nodded in agreement!"What should we do? Ash, should we turn back and take a safer route?" Max asked."Since we're here, of course we have to go through!" "Pika~" "Eevee~" "Woof~" "Boom~""Torkoal, let's go through this valley together!" Ashinvited, "With you, we will definitely succeed!"The Torkoal immediately had tears in its eyes and thick black smoke puffed out of its nostrils. This time, Ash quickly used his Aura to defend himself and wasn't blackened!Everyone also agreed and prepared to go through Steel Valley!At this moment, "Roar~" The ground began to shake, and a huge Steelix appeared before everyone![Steelix][Strength: Gym Leader Early Stage]Apparently, this Steelix is the ruler of Steel Valley!"Torkoal~" The Torkoal looked at the Steelix with fighting spirit. "Torkoal, do you want to listen to my command and defeat this Steelix together!" Ashinvited."Torkoal~" The Torkoal nodded seriously![Torkoal][Gender: Male][Type: Fire][Ability: Drought (When it enters battle, the weather becomes sunny)][Strength: Superior Peak][Moves: Flamethrower, Overheat, Lava Plume, Withdraw...][Dynamax Type: Fire]"Roar~" The Steelix spewed out a green Dragon Pulse and attacked! "Torkoal, Withdraw!" The Torkoal immediately pulled its body into its shell. The Dragon Pulse hit the shell and didn't cause the Torkoal any damage!Ash smiled slightly, this time I'm finally not troubled by this shell! "Torkoal, Flamethrower!" "Torkoal~" A huge pillar of fire attacked the Steelix. The Steelixdidn't dodge and took the hit, then slammed the Torkoal with an Iron Tail!"The attack is too high! Torkoal, Flame Wheel!" This time, the Steelix used Dig and burrowed underground. Unfortunately, the Torkoal doesn't know Earthquake, otherwise, it would have definitely made the Steelix suffer!"Torkoal, get ready to Overheat! Finish it off the moment Steelix comes out!" "Torkoal~"Ash used his Aura to find the Steelix's position and shouted, "Torkoal, jump up, then Overheat and charge down!""Torkoal~" The Torkoal jumped up without hesitation, dodging the Steelix's attack. At the same time, it unleashed its full power, hitting the Steelixwith a scorching white flame!"Roar~" The Steelix twisted its steel body in the face of the powerful Fire-type move, bang! It fell down and lost its ability to battle!"Torkoal~" The Torkoal excitedly started spewing Lava Plume!"Torkoal, if you don't mind, would you like to travel with me!" Ash invited, while taking out a Poké Ball!"Torkoal~" The Torkoal again had tears in its eyes and nodded, releasing a large amount of black smoke, directly knocking Ash to the ground. Its head hit the Poké Ball, and with a bang, the capture was successful!"Torkoal is really easy to move!" Max hit the nail on the head with his comment."Alright! I caught Torkoal!" Ash held up the Poké Ball, "Pika~" "Eevee~" Then, the Poké Ball became smaller and was transported to Professor Oaks Laboratory!"That's amazing! So there's this kind of capture method too!" (✧∇✧) May's eyes were truly opened today. This was the first time she had seen this kind of capture method!And the defeated Steelix had already left with the Magnemite and Skarmory, tacitly acknowledging that they had gone through Steel Valley!After passing through Steel Valley, Ash and the others successfully found the correct path and realized that Mauville City was already within sight!——————————Ash and the others, aiming for Petalburg City, returned to Mauville City after a few days!To be continued...
Chapter 60: Team Rocket Returns, ThundermonChapter 60 Team Rockets Return, Manectric"Great, we're finally out. We've arrived in the city!" May cheered after entering Mauville City."Look over there!" Max seemed to have discovered something and pointed in a direction, cheering.They saw that a carnival seemed to be taking place in the square there, so Ash and the others walked over!At this moment, two people wearing mascot costumes walked towards Ash and his group, enthusiastically saying, "Welcome, welcome! Let's all have fun!""The grand prize is a luxurious doll!" They said while showing it to Ash and the others."Wow~ So cute!" (♡ ᗜ ♡) May looked at the Torchicin front of her and loved it incredibly!Ash's mouth twitched as he looked at the two people in front of him. "It's been a long time! Team Rockets!""Team Rockets!" x3"Really, I told you it's impossible to fool Satoshi, but you still didn't believe me!" Meowth walked out and stood in front of Ash and his group!"We had to try!" Musashi and Kojiro removed their disguises. "Long time no see, Satoshi! Little girl!""Since you... that's how it is, Meow!" "Wobbuffet!"Xiao Gang fell into deep thought, then suddenly clenched his fist and hit the palm of his other hand. "I was wondering what was missing recently! So it was you! Team Rockets!"May and Max nodded in agreement. Their journey was much quieter without Team Rockets!"Hmph, times are different now. Let us show you the results of Team Rockets' cruel special training! Go, Seviper, Dustox!""That's right, go! Cacnea! Ah, that hurts!"[Seviper] [Superior Peak][Dustox] [Superior Later Stage][Cacnea] [Superior Peak][Wobbuffet] [Gym Later Stage]"Then let's give it a try. Go, Electrike and Quilava!" "Beautifly, take the stage!" "Go, Forretress!"The eight Pokémon faced each other. "Seviper, Sludge Bomb! Dustox, Venoshock! Wobbuffet, prepare Payback!" "Cacnea, Solar Beam!"Looking at Team Rockets' attacks coming, Team Rockets had indeed grown a lot. The level of each Pokémon had increased, and they had all learned powerful moves!"Electrike, Thunderbolt! Quilava, Fire Blast!" "Beautifly, Silver Wind!" "Forretress, Iron Defense!" Forretress erected a silver-white metal wall in front of the many Pokémon. Poison-type moves are ineffective against Steel-types, and Forretress's level was also very high, already at Superior Peak! So it effortlessly blocked the attack!On the other side, three attacks merged into one, a huge pillar of fire surrounded by blue current and Silver Wind. "Wobbuffet~" Wobbuffet still stood firm and reflected the attack back. "Well done, Wobbuffet!" The Team Rocket Trio praised. "Wobbuffet~"As expected of the Fruit God, "Eevee, Protect! Pikachu, Electrike, Thunderbolt! Quilava, Flamethrower!" "Forretress, Protect!" "Beautifly, Hurricane!"Under the protection of Eevee and Forretress, the attack was successfully blocked. As for Team Rockets, although they had the Fruit God, Ash had the Electric God on his side! Team Rockets were sent flying!"What a hateful feeling!" "Wobbuffet (˃ʍ˂)～""This time we were defeated by six Pokémon!" "That's right, we only had four, so we will definitely succeed next time after we prepare!" "That's right, Meow!""What a great feeling!""I didn't expect their strength to increase so much after not seeing them for a while!" Xiao Gang exclaimed."That's right, actually, if Team Rockets reformed, they might be very talented Trainers!" Both Ash and Xiao Gang shook their heads. With the Team Rocket Trio's loyalty to Giovanni, who knows who won't shed tears!"I have to work harder too!" May realized that even Musashi had improved so much, so she also had to speed up her strength improvement!——————————Upon arriving at the Pokémon Center in Mauville City, Ash and his group met Gym Leader Wattson. At Wattson's invitation, Ash decided to have a practice battle with Wattson, and May also planned to have a battle with Watari!Everyone came to Mauville Gym again and found that Mauville Gym had undergone a major renovation. May couldn't help but shiver when she thought of the thrilling mechanisms.Everyone came to the Gym's battle arena from the side door. First, Watari's Ampharos battled May's Skitty.Surprisingly, May won. Skitty's Assist was full of uncertainty, and after using it, it turned the tide, allowing Skitty to successfully defeat Ampharosand increase its strength to Normal Peak!However, it also proved that the tacit understanding between May and Skitty was very high. They trusted each other, otherwise it would have been difficult for May to turn the tables!Next was Wattson's battle against Ash. "Hahaha, Ash, come on, go, Jolteon!" "Lei~""It's Jolteon! One of Eevee's evolutions!" Max said excitedly as he looked at Jolteon.May took out her Pokedex and scanned it:Jolteon...[Jolteon] [Superior Peak]"Haha, Ash! This is the Eevee I found near the power plant not long after you left. It just evolved into Jolteon not long ago!" Wattson laughed loudly."Then it's decided, you are the one, Electrike!" Ashsent out Electrike. Electrike was about to evolve, and this battle could just provide the final experience!"Oh?! It's that Electrike! Jolteon, Dig!" Both sides have the Lightning Rod ability, so it's naturally a non-Electric type duel between Electric type Pokémon!"Quick Attack! Dodge!" Just as Jolteon appeared from behind Electrike, Electrike quickly dodged!"That reaction is really fast! Ash! What about this move! Jolteon, Swift!""Electrike, Quick Attack plus Fire Fang!" Electrikeendured Swift and quickly approached Jolteon, biting Jolteon with a large crimson fang! "Lei~""Electrike, Crunch!" "Jolteon, Double-Edge!" Electrike had already condensed Dark-type energy on its teeth and attacked, but Jolteon didn't move.Wattson also noticed the abnormality. "Oh no! It's the flinching status, Jolteon!" And Jolteon had already been defeated by Electrike's Crunch!"Jolteon is unable to battle, Electrike wins, the winner is Mr. Ash!""Woof~" Electrike's body emitted a blue and white evolutionary light, its body grew larger, with yellow hair and a blue body—Manectric appeared![Manectric][Strength: Superior Peak][Moves: Hyper Beam, Electric Terrain, Snarl, Thunder...]"Congratulations! Ash!" Wattson congratulated."Thank you!" Ash and Wattson shook hands!Watari on the side suddenly spoke, "I heard you're participating in the Contests, right? The PokémonContest will be held in Verdanturf Town not long from now!""Really?!" (✧∇✧) May was surprised.Max took out the Navigator to find the route. "We can also reach Petalburg City from Verdanturf Town!""Okay! Then let's go to Verdanturf Town first to participate in the Pokémon Contest, and then go to Petalburg City to challenge the Gym!" Ash decided.May immediately raised her hand first in agreement!Afterwards, they bid farewell to Wattson and Watari, rested at the Pokémon Center for the night, and prepared to set off early the next morning! At the same time, Ash sent Manectric back and sent Torkoal over.To be continued...