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  1. #51
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 37: Hearts of Fire (part 1)

    "Hello?" the image of Prof. Oak asked as it blipped on the phone's screen.

    "Hi, Professor...we're on our way to Goldenrod City now, but not without a few adventures..." Ash smiled.

    "I heard about Venti's victory in the Pokemon Swap Meet--well done." Prof. Oak smiled. "Of course, then Cinque and Otto had to argue over who would beat Venti in a fight. Thankfully, Sette broke it up, but Venti assured his herd-mates that he was proud to represent the herd in the match."

    "That's Sette for you--ever the peacemaker." Ash smiled. "What are some sights we can see in Goldenrod City and the surrounding areas?

    "Well, there's the National Park, where a bug catching contest is held..." Prof. Oak began as Misty and Brock arrived, with Nurse Joy not far behind. "You may want to leave Misty at the mall if you plan to do that."

    "Actually, professor, I've signed up to participate in the Pokethlon." Misty assured Prof. Oak.

    "In that case, the stadium where that kicks off is by the park." Prof. Oak explained. "Then there's the Radio Tower, where many shows of both an informative and entertaining nature are broadcast across the region--the main station's call letters here are WJTO."

    "I've always wanted to sing and tell stories on the radio!" Brock gasped. "I can see the show now: 'Live from the Fireside'...

    Prof. Oak chuckled. "With your talent for storytelling and music, I believe you would make a fine radio star, Brock."

    He looked at the clock out of the frame. "Speaking of radio shows, I have to prepare for this week's edition of 'Pokemon Talk'--so I must be going. Take care, and be safe!"

    "We will." Ash smiled before the call ended.

    "I must know what you do to keep your Pokemon so happy and healthy, Ash...they're all in tip top shape!" Nurse Joy smiled before allowing Ash to see his team on the gurney.

    Before Ash could answer, Brock slipped before Nurse Joy, guitar in hand. "Maybe you could give me a little TLC and listen to this song I wrote telling of your kindness and beauty..."

    "Uh, that's okay--I just remembered I have to inspect the competitors for the Fire and Rescue Grand Prix. Thank you, and see you!" Nurse Joy stammered before hurrying off back behind the counter, to Brock's shock.

    "Sorry, Mr. Balladeer..." Misty smirked as she heard the DOING of Brock's G string breaking.

    "That's okay--the song was a little rough around the edges, anyway." Brock assured his companions as he went to work fixing the broken string.

    "If you're curious, the Grand Prix is a firefighting and rescue competition for Pokemon and their trainers." a girl explained as she settled on a couch, gesturing to a poster advertising the Grand Prix on a window.

    "Sounds fun!" Ash gasped. "Where do I sign up?

    "Tiny problem, hero--the only Water types you have are Brenna and River--are you sure a team of two would be enough?" Misty asked.

    "One step ahead of you--I'll just borrow Michelle and Pearl to round out the team." Ash grinned confidently.

    "Now wait a minute! When did I say you could use Michelle or Pearl for ANYTHING?" Misty demanded. "If you wanted to use them, you could've ASKED first!"

    A pop of a Poke Ball got Misty's attention. [Actually, Misty, I wouldn't mind competing in this fire and rescue competition.] Michelle assured her master. [It actually sounds like fun!]

    Misty sighed. "Okay...you can use Michelle and Pearl in the competition, but in return, I expect you to take extra good care of them." she told Ash.

    "Got it!" Ash replied.

    Just then, both Ash and Misty perked up at a familiar male voice calling them. "Is that..." Misty gasped as she saw a familiar man with tanned skin and orange work clothes leading a team of Wartortles in their direction.

    "Captain Aidan!" Ash cried as he ran to embrace the man.

    "It's good to see you and Misty again." Aidan smiled. "And who might your singer friend be?" he asked, noticing Brock putting the finishing touches on the repaired guitar string.

    "That's Brock, the aspiring musician and storyteller and master archer we told you about." Misty replied. "Brock, this is Captain Aidan of Ascorbia Island--while Ash and I were with Tracey in the Orange Islands, we saw firsthand why he and his Wartortles are known as the best firefighters in the area!"

    "Really?" Brock was intrigued.

    "Not just that, he gave Brenna some training, and in return, she helped them put out a major fire!" Ash went on. "It'd be a perfect song!"

    "You can tell me about it later--I'd call it 'The Ballad of Captain Aidan'". Brock grinned.

    Aidan just chuckled. "Here's another idea for a verse in 'The Ballad of Captain Aidan'--the Wartortles and I defending our title in the Grand Prix."

    "I can see why you've won a title--every one of your Wartortles looks championship worthy!" Brock raved as he observed the team of Wartortles.

    "Thank you..." Aidan smiled before addressing the team. "All right, team! Report!"

    [Captain Mist, standing by!] the lead Wartortle announced. One by one, the other Wartortle introduced themselves:

    [Engineer Sleet, standing by!]

    [First Lieutenant Rima, standing by!]

    [Second Lieutenant Haley, standing by!]

    [Third Lieutenant Dew, standing by!]

    [We are Team Wartortle! No fire can stand against our big wave!] the five Wartortles chorused.

    [You guys!] Brenna dashed out to meet the Wartortles. [I missed you!]

    [We missed you too, Honorary Lieutenant Brenna.] Mist smiled as she and Brenna shook claws for the first time in a long time. [No one in the islands ever forgets what you did to help us.]

    "Now I'm REALLY interested in hearing just what Brenna did..." Brock mused as Ash lead the way out of the Pokemon Center...

    ---------

    "I've talked to the Grand Prix coordinators, and they have allowed Ash to compete even though he did not submit an entry form." Aidan explained as the group walked down a hallway and into the main practice room of the competition's workout center.

    "Wow..." Ash gasped as a team of Azumarill practiced hosing down a replica of a burning house. A Greninja ordered its Froagie charges to rescue a Clefairy doll, and a team of Piplups hurried into position for their attempt at dousing the burning house.

    "You were lucky to be entered because a good word from a friend--all these teams look like seasoned pros." Brock cautioned. "So bring your A game."

    "I'll bring more than that--I'll bring my S game!" Ash grinned, unfazed at his competition.

    Just then, Brenna spotted Officer Jenny and four familiar Squirtles. [Officer! It's me, Brenna!] she called, waving a claw in their direction.

    "Hello there, Brenna..." Jenny knelt down and hugged Brenna. "Think you can spray some sense into your old squadmates?" she asked, gesturing to the four Squirtles, who were visibly shaking in fear at the other teams present.

    Brenna stepped before the four Squirtles. [Eddy...Chill...Mellow...Tear...you guys still remember me, right?]

    [Of course we do, Brenna.] Eddy replied. [We're just worried about what good us Squirtles can do against all these big and tough Pokemon.]

    [We can do anything if we all work together as a team, gang.] Brenna replied. [As all the Sorin stories say, the small can overcome the big and tough not by strength, but by wits!]

    [You've got a point there, Brenna...] Chill smiled as he woke up from a nap with a yawn.

    "It's always nice to see you, Officer." Misty smiled as she and Ash watched Brenna converse with the other Squirtles, all the while watching and hoping Brock would not attempt to sing Jenny a sappy love song.

    "Brenna seems happy to see her squad mates again." Ash agreed.

    "It seems like only yesterday they were little rascals bringing terror on Vermilion City...and look at them now--the city's most famous, reliable, and cutest firefighters." Jenny smiled. "And I have you to thank for that, Ash."

    "Aw, it was nothin.'" Ash smiled. "I bet they could even take down Team Wartortle, the returning champions!"

    Brenna rolled her eyes as the other Squirtles gasped at the mention of Team Wartortle. Oh brother...I'm gonna have to remind them what it means to be a hero again...

    To Be Continued...
    Last edited by EmeraldSky; 01-14-2017 at 08:19 PM.
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  2. #52
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    @Scytherwolf;

    Episode 38: Hearts of Fire (part 2)


    "Is it okay if the Squirtle Squad can have a joint practice session with Team Wartortle?" Jenny asked, smiling a little as Brenna and the other four Squirtles chatted.

    "Sure." Aidan agreed. "Let's start with the target test."

    Jenny whistled to get the Squad's attention. "Come on, guys--with me." The Squirtles nodded, and followed Brenna and Jenny over to a row of round targets that could be ignited at any time.

    "Okay, team! The key to a good score on a target test is to focus on each target, communicate with Mist and each other, and work as a team." Aidan instructed his team. "Got it?"

    [Yes sir!] the Wartortles chorused before looking to Brock for their instructions.

    "All right--before you is a row of flaming targets." Brock explained, gesturing to the burning targets that a technician had ignited for them. "As the sound of the whistle, work as quickly as you can to put them out--the team that puts out all five targets the fastest, wins. Any questions?"

    [Do we have to put them out one at a time, or what?] Mellow asked.

    "You can use any strategy you want, so long as the targets are put out." Brock explained.

    When he saw that none of the other Squirtles had questions, he announced "Okay! Ready...set..." before blowing his whistle.

    The Wartortles wasted no time in hurrying to a target and firing the most powerful Water Gun they could at the raging fire balls. But over on the other range, Ash winced as the Squirtle Squad's attacks went in five different directions. "Come on, guys! Focus!" he called.

    [Chill's trying to put two out!] Eddy protested. [He has his own!]

    "Chill, focus on your own target first, then help Eddy if he needs it." Jenny gently coaxed.

    "Hey!" Ash gasped as Mellow sprayed Tear. "This is not the time to play, focus on the targets!"

    Misty winced at how terribly the Squirtles were doing. "I'm not so sure they're ready for a competition at all..."

    "They're probably nervous being next to such a high-rated team." Brock mused as he toyed with his whistle, waiting for either Jenny or Mist to signal that one team's targets were all out.

    Brenna, meanwhile, grimaced at her teammates. Fine, if they want to goof off and play rather than win the competition, I'm taking matters into my own claws!

    Ash suddenly heard cries of [Ow!] [Eep!] [Yipe!] [Oof!], followed by a single uniform spray. "I don't believe it...the Squirtles finally managed to learn to work together!" he gasped as he watched the Squirtles work on dousing their targets.

    [Oh, I just gave them a step in that direction.] Brenna smiled. [A step on their tails, that is.]

    She then addressed her squad-mates. [Okay, Squad! Take down each target! And quickly, since we need to make up for lost time!]

    [Yeah!] the other Squirtles replied before intensifying their sprays.

    Misty watched as both teams raced neck and neck, but when she saw Mist and Brenna signal Brock at the same time, she smiled as Brock blew his whistle again to signal that the target test had ended in a tie. "Well! The Squirtle Squad seem much more confident with their leader back."

    "That may be true, but the Squad does not seem to function without Brenna." Ash cautioned as the extinguished targets were rolled out of the room. "I can only hope they'll survive the competition proper."

    ---------

    "Our next event is the Flaming Target Test!" the emcee announced some time later.

    "Okay, our competition is Team Quack Attack." Jenny explained to the Squirtles, showing them a picture of a group of Golducks. "Let's not have a repeat of the Flame-Off event and the disaster with the Muks."

    "I know Team Quack Attack is very skilled--they came in second place in last year's Grand Prix." Aidan told Ash and Jenny. "I fear that the pressure of the competition may be breaking the Squirtles' concentration...."

    "You may be right...the Squad looks even more nervous than it did during the practice session." Ash agreed as the siren to start the event blared into the stadium. He watched as the five Golducks raced to the blazing target range, but the Squirtle Squad stayed put on the starting line, intimidated by the size of the Golducks.

    "Come on, guys! Go! Go! Go!" Ash called to the Squirtles, but the four Squirtles refused to budge.

    He noticed Brock's whistle hanging from his bag. "Mind if I borrow your whistle for a second?" he asked.

    "Sure--give it a good, hard blow to get the Squirtle Squad going." Brock smiled.

    Ash nodded, took the deepest breath he could muster, and blew the whistle, startling the Squirtles, making Eddy trip, which brought all four Squirtles into a struggling heap.

    Brenna winced as she watched the Squad aim a haphazard Water Gun assault at their targets. [You're gonna need a lot more than a referee's whistle to help the Squad...] she sighed as Ash handed Brock the whistle.

    Inspired, Ash called "Tintri, use a static bolt on the Squirtle Squad!"

    [Got it!] Tintri replied as he fired a static bolt at the Squirtles, making them yelp.

    [What was THAT for?] Mellow demanded, rubbing his shell in pain from the static bolt.

    "Now that I have your attention, you guys really should listen to your leader." Ash explained, gesturing to Brenna.

    [What?] Brenna gasped. [Me, the leader? I've always been a teammate, and you've been the leader.]

    "I know that, but the Squirtles seem to listen to you better than they do any of us--and you have a lot of qualities a good leader should have." Ash assured Brenna. "The Squad needs you now...so will you go help them?"

    Brenna nodded, and called to the Squad. [Okay, Squirtle Squad! We can still win this if we all work together!]

    [YEAH!!!!] the Squirtles cheered as they each hurried to a target, easily making up for the time they had lost, and defeating Team Quack Attack by one target.

    ---------

    "Brenna? Can we talk for a minute?" Ash asked as he found Brenna and the Squad resting as the arena was prepped for the next event.

    [What about? Am I in trouble?] Brenna asked.

    "Oh, no, no one's in trouble." Ash assured Brenna. "I know that the Squirtle Squad is very strong, but without you, their leader, the Squirtle Squad are lost. I understand that it is a big change for you, since you're so used to having me lead you to battle, but can you be me to your squadmates? If that means leaving me and the others and going with the Squad, I'll respect that decision. But the ultimate choice is yours."

    Brenna contemplated what her master had said for a moment. [While I love you, Ash, and would do anything for you, I love my squadmates too, and I want them to succeed like I have.]

    She ran to Chill's side. [It's decided...I will lead the Squirtle Squad!]

    ---------

    "Okay..the final event is Team Wartortle against the Squirtle Squad in the Great Clefairy Rescue." Brock explained to the Pokemon. "The challenge is to rescue a Clefairy doll from a smoky building the fastest."

    "I'm kinda glad the Pokemon are doing that and not the people." Misty sighed. "The rope climb wore me out!"

    "I'll say...Captain Aidan has getting into a fire suit down to an art." Ash mused. "But at least the Squad did well with the moving targets and the distance event."

    The emcee then announced "Our two final teams that will compete in the Great Clefairy Rescue are Team Wartortle and the Squirtle Squad!", snapping the group to attention.

    "Come on, Squirtle Squad! You can do it!" Ash shouted encouragement to the Squad on the left start line as a familiar song of encouragement started playing over the stadium PA system.

    "Good luck to both teams!" Misty called, waving at the Wartortle.

    She was jolted from her excitement by Brock singing along with the PA system. We all have a dream inside our hearts that we will follow to the end...
    When you make a wish upon a star, the power flows, inside of you!
    Everybody listen to this song and sadness will just disappear!
    My wishes, dreams and hopes go forth into the world...


    "Brock! This is not a karaoke contest!" Misty hissed.

    "I know, I'm just singing a little fight song for the Squirtle Squad." Brock explained.

    With that, he picked up the chorus without missing a beat. Come with me and we will see the wonders of the world!
    All of the glory, is in our story!

    As we make our way to heaven, take it step by step
    And get the glory, upon the great stage!...


    Ash sighed over Brock's enthusiastic rendition of "Glory in our Story"--he hadn't counted on his friend to do something potentially embarrassing in public. "Personally, I don't know if Brock is singing that for the Squirtle Squad or Officer Jenny." Misty discreetly whispered.

    "Let him sing--it appears to be helping the Squad." Ash replied as both teams raced into their smoky houses, Brock singing all the while.

    ---------

    We all have a dream inside our hearts that we will follow to the end...
    When you make a wish upon a star, the power flows, inside of you!


    [Okay squad! listen up!] Brenna called as she adjusted the mini camera that would allow her to see where she was going in the thick smoke. [This is meant to simulate a smoky house--our objective is to find a Clefairy doll hidden somewhere in the house, and bring it outside as quick as we can!]

    [But how are we supposed to see in this smoke?] Tear asked.

    [I have a camera on my shell wired to vision goggles that will allow me to see clearly.] Brenna explained. [So when in doubt, follow me.]

    With that, she pulled down the vision goggles. [Okay, Squirtle Squad! Move out!]

    Everybody listen to this song and sadness will just disappear!
    My wishes, dreams and hopes go forth into the world...


    Seconds seemed to tick by like hours as the five Squirtles hurried through the simulated house, checking the drawers in the prop furniture, behind the appliances, and other places they felt a Clefairy would conceivably get trapped.

    Every so often, one of the Squirtles would be sprayed with a warning spritz as a gentle reminder to stay focused and not worry about the smoke or the props.

    Come and take my hand right now, come with me for the ride,
    Together we will step through the door,
    And see the light shining from our own heavenly land!


    Just then, Chill found a pink form on the charred remains of a bed. [Brenna! I found the Clefairy!] he called, waving the Clefairy doll for his squadmates to see.

    [Good! Let's hurry and bring it outside!] Brenna called as the other Squirtles rallied to the bedroom where the Clefairy was--the next part was retracing their steps back outside.

    Come with me and we will see the wonders of the world!
    All of the glory, is in our story!

    As we make our way to heaven, take it step by step
    And get the glory, upon the great stage!


    Back outside, Ash watched the two smoky houses intently. "You think Brenna and the others are okay in there?" he asked as he listened to Brock continue "Glory in Our Story"

    "I think so." Misty replied. "Although this is, what, the fourth or fifth time we've had to hear Brock sing that?"

    We can go anywhere, so long as we're together
    I truly believe it with all of my heart...
    The cards here in my hand,
    Show you the way...
    Brock concluded the song yet again, seconds before both Team Wartortle and the Squirtle Squad emerged from the smoky houses at the same time, causing the song to end and the officials to review the replays.

    Murmurs wafted through the crowd before cheers went up at the appearance of Team Wartortle's time on the scoreboard: 3:54:02. "Not bad..." Misty smiled as the crowd applauded.

    "Now to see how the Squirtle Squad did..." Brock mused.

    The tense look on Ash's face turned to joy when he saw the Squirtle Squad's time: 3:53:00! "YA-HOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!" he screamed as he tossed his cap into the air in celebration.

    "They did it!" Misty cried before motioning for the others to follow her down to the stadium, where the Squirtles and Officer Jenny were laughing and hugging each other over their narrow victory.

    "Looks like my fight song worked!" Brock grinned as Brenna embraced Ash.

    "I don't think it was a fight song--they came together as a team when it mattered most." Captain Aidan explained. "So even though we lost, I just want to congratulate these little guys for a job well done."

    [If you ever visit the island again, you're always welcome to come help us put out some fires, Honorary Lieutenant Brenna.] Mist smiled as she and her fellow Wartortles saluted the Squirtle Squad.

    [I'll remember that, but right now, we've got the fires at home to put out.] Brenna replied as Officer Jenny gave each Squirtle a gold star symbolizing their victory.

    ---------

    "Well done, Brenna. " Ash smiled as the other four Squirtles piled into the basket in the back of Jenny's police cycle. "You proved yourself a real leader today."

    [Aw, it was nothin'!] Brenna smiled.

    "i just want to thank you for for letting Brenna leave your party and continue leading the Squirtle Squad." Jenny began. "I know she'll do very well in that capacity."

    [Tintri...write me a letter every so often, okay?] Brenna asked.

    [Sure!] Tintri replied. [I'll send you a gazillion letters!]

    [Misty...thanks for all the pool time.] Brenna went on as she hugged Misty. [I'm gonna miss ice surfing in the Gym's main pool.]

    "I'll tell my sisters to have the pool ready for you any time you want to do some water rescue training." Misty smiled.

    [Brock...I'm really gonna miss your stories and your songs.] Brenna went on, choking back tears as she hugged Brock.

    "I'm always on MyTube, so you can watch my latest performances--and share old favorites with the Squad--anytime you want." Brock assured Brenna. "You know the channel name, right?"

    [PewterSong.] Brenna smiled before looking over at River, Luce, Mina and Cyndy.

    [Keep that fire in your heart burning.] Cyndy smiled.

    [Even though we've only been together a short time, I'll never forget that shockingly powerful spirit of yours.] Luce smiled as Brenna hugged her.

    [Be safe, Brenna...] Mina wrapped Brenna in her wings for a moment as Brenna tearfully hugged her.

    [Ash, I wanna give my friend a farewell hug.] River smiled before hugging Brenna. [Relax, Brenna--Ash is in good hands with me.]

    [Okay.] Brenna smiled before hugging Ash. [And Ash...thank you for teaching me how to be a leader, and how to be a good friend.]

    "Anytime!" Ash smiled. "You're always welcome back, no matter where in the world I am."

    "All right, that's everyone." Jenny smiled as Brenna climbed in the basket. "Let's move out, Squirtle Squad!"

    [Bye, everyone!] Brenna screamed over the motorcycle's throaty rumble. [I'll miss you all!]

    "Bye, Brenna!" Ash nearly screamed through his tears as the police cycle sped off into the sunset. "I'll always love you, no matter what!"

    A familiar guitar playing a soft melody in G got his attention. So long, old friend... he heard Brock sing,
    I wish that I could see you once again...
    I never knew, the time would come when I'd be losing you,
    I hope you know, in times when things went badly,
    I always knew just what a friend like you is for...


    Ash brushed away another tear as he reflected on all the times when Brenna had come through for him--Gym battles, rescuing Tintri, the Indigo League, and even what had transpired just a few hours before.

    I never thought that things would end so sadly...
    And you'd be walking through that door...
    Brock continued playing his song, smiling a little at Ash's remaining Pokemon gathering around him.

    So long, old friend,
    I wish that I could see you once again...
    I never knew, the time would come when I'd be losing you,
    I always thought our grand adventure would go on and on...


    Just then, Ash choked out one final goodbye to the setting sun. "So long....Brenna..."

    Misty rushed to hold Ash close as Brock sang the last line of his farewell song. I never knew I'd have to say,
    So long....


    To Be Continued...
    Last edited by EmeraldSky; 01-15-2017 at 12:09 AM.
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  3. #53
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    Episode 39: Hour of the Houndour (part 1)


    "Ash doing okay?" Misty asked as she sliced a block of Cheddar cheese in preparation for lunch. It had been a few days since Brenna, Ash's Squirtle, had left the party to return to Kanto with the Squirtle Squad. She wondered if he was still grieving losing two of his greatest Pokemon--first Blaze, and now Brenna. Judging from how she had to hold him close as he cried in her arms, he had taken this parting very hard.

    "He's his usual energetic and happy self today, thankfully." Brock replied as he finished laying out some ham, turkey, and roast beef by the different cheeses Misty had already sliced. "He should be back with some berries to go with our sandwich bar any moment now...think we have enough cheese options, or do you want to slice some more?"

    "Mozzarella would go very nicely with the roast beef, actually--just like a pizza." Misty suggested. Brock just set a sphere of fresh mozzarella cheese before Misty, allowing her to create another cheese option for the sandwich bar as she sliced the ball of cheese into circles just large enough to fit on a piece of bread.

    "I'm back!" Ash smiled as he and Tintri returned with basketfuls of wild Berries, oblivious to the many red eyes watching them. "We found Bluk Berries, Kuran Berries, Razz Berries, Belue Berries, Rawst Berries, and mint leaves..."

    He was about to say more when he noticed the baskets were gone. "Funny..our berries and mint were just here a minute ago..."

    "What about the bread for our sandwiches?" Misty asked as she and Brock cleaned up what food they did not prepare.

    "It was in my bag...which appears to be gone as well!" Ash gasped when he saw that his bag was no longer on his back.

    [That's what you get for not paying attention...] Tintri scolded.

    "I was watching my stuff like a Braviary!" Ash protested. "Looking in the camp won't help, since I remember having it with me when we left!"

    [That's true...] Tintri mused.

    Brock, however, noticed some vaguely canine footprints on the ground. "Hey, look! Pawprints!" he called as he slung his bow and the quiver of thirty arrows on his back.

    "Maybe if we follow them, we can find my stuff!" Ash lead the way through the brush.

    ---------

    Meanwhile, in town, Nurse Joy and one of her Chanseys departed the grocery store and started the short walk back to the Pokemon Center. "As soon as we get these home, Merri, we'll start by making some food for the less fortunate families in town." she smiled at the Chansey as she approached the crosswalk.

    [Ham and au gratin potatoes sounds wonderful!] Merri agreed.

    Just then, a familiar joyful melody caught her attention as an ice cream truck arrived in the town square. [Look! The ice cream man's here!] she called as hundreds of children, Pokemon, and adults hurried to get in line.

    "We've eaten mostly healthy all this week, so there's no harm in the occasional treat." Nurse Joy agreed as she led Merri to the end of the line, within eyesight of their groceries. "What would you like to have?" she asked Meri, unaware that the ham they had bought was vanishing into the brush.

    [I can't decide between Kalosian vanilla or Oran sorbet...] Merri mused. [Every flavor's so good!]

    "I'm getting a sundae cone..." Nurse Joy smiled before it was her and Merri's turn in line.

    [I'll get Oran sorbet, then.] Merri smiled.

    As the two of them returned to their waiting groceries, Nurse Joy noticed the ham had disappeared. "How strange...our ham is gone, but none of the other groceries were taken." she mused, getting the group's attention as they rounded the corner.

    "Is everything okay, Nurse Joy?" Ash asked, noticing the nurse's perplexed look.

    "Well...Merri and I had bought a ham to feed the less fortunate of the city, and as we stopped to get something from the ice cream truck, it disappeared." Nurse Joy explained.

    [Even weirder, we had our groceries where we could see them the whole time we were in line.] Merri added.

    "So your food and my bag, which also had food in it, are gone..." Ash mused. "But who would be stealing food, and why?"

    "I have a sneaking suspicion that it is a certain guy, girl, and talking Meowth..." Misty suggested.

    "But why would Team Rocket want to steal food?" Ash wondered.

    "As much as I want to confirm or deny your suspicions, I didn't see the thief--or thieves--at all." Nurse Joy sighed.

    Brock, meanwhile, noticed more pawprints leading into a forested area near the park. "Hey guys! Here's some more pawprints like what we found by our campsite!"

    "Maybe if we keep following them, they'll lead us to whoever--or whatever--is taking our food!" Misty smiled as she followed Brock into the brush, with Ash not far behind her.

    "Good luck, you three...and thanks!" Nurse Joy waved goodbye as the group continued on their way.

    ---------

    "Food thefts on da rise in da city..." Meowth read from a newspaper before seeing a glimpse of the group from the alleyway Team Rocket was hiding in.

    "Well, we'd never stoop so low as to steal food." Jessie mused as she petted Sahana. "Never mind this Wobbufett I somehow received at the Swap Meet barely eats anything..."

    "Maybe, if we followed where the twerps went, we can outthieve whatever's taking all the food!" James suggested as he watched Ash disappear into the brush.

    "Den what're we waitin' for?" Meowth asked as he folded up the newspaper. "Let's go!"

    ---------

    After following the trail to the end, the group arrived in a clearing dotted with flowers. "There's no more tracks..." Misty wheezed.

    Brock noticed the sun was going down. "We may be close to the thief's hideout--but it's getting late, so let's just make camp here for tonight."

    "Good idea!" Misty suggested as she retrieved her camp gear. "I have a spare tent you can use until we can get your bag back." she assured Ash.

    Ash, meanwhile, noticed Brock adding some meat flavored Pokemon attractant on a stick roughly the size of a hot dog. "Uh, Brock? Why are you cooking a stick?" he asked as he helped Misty pitch the spare tent.

    "It's an idea to lure what's taking the food over here." Brock explained as he placed the wooden hot dog on a plate. "The idea being that once the culprit finds out it has a fake, it will return for the real thing if it is actually hungry."

    "Oh..." Misty mused. "That is a clever idea!"

    "I'd keep an arrow ready if the culprit is dangerous..." Ash wasn't so sure if Brock's plan would work.

    Minutes seemed to tick by like hours as the group waited patiently but fearfully for the culprit's return. After about fifteen agonizing minutes had passed, Ash spotted some familiar scary red eyes in the bushes. "Something's here!"

    He waited for Brock to nock an arrow, then called into the bushes "Okay, thief! I'm not scared of you, and want to know why you're taking our stuff!"

    A growl thundered through the brush in reply as several black and red dog Pokemon with bone-like appendages emerged from the brush. "On second thought, maybe planting a decoy was a bad idea..." Brock stammered when he noticed one of the dog Pokemon had his decoy in its jaws.

    Ash, meanwhile, decided to read up on the dog-Pokemon as Brock prepared to fire a warning shot at them:

    "Houndour, the dark Pokemon. It uses different kinds of cries for communicating with others of its kind and for pursuing its prey."

    "That's both fascinating and frightening..." Misty mused as she reached for two of her Poke Balls. "Michelle, Pearl, I need your help!"

    "Get ready for a fight, bud." Ash warned Tintri.

    [You got it.] Tintri replied.

    [Let me soak some of those for you...] Michelle offered, spritzing the arrow Brock was about to fire.

    A howl snapped the group to attention, prompting Brock to fire his shot, making some of the Houndours rear back in fear from the watery spray as Tintri, Michelle, and Pearl ran to engage the pack....

    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  4. #54
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 40: Hour of the Houndour (part 2)

    "Let's go, Tintri!" Ash called as the pack of Houndours charged at the trio.

    Tintri balked as a watery arrow splashed him as it landed in the ground. [Brock, you're not supposed to hurt the Houndour!] he protested as he threw off an attacking Houndour with a Seismic Toss.

    "I'm not--I'm only firing into the ground, in hopes that the watery arrows will frighten off the Houndour." Brock assured Tintri as he readied another shot. "You know that I would never intentionally harm a Pokemon with my arrows."

    With that, he fired at a patch of dry ground, catching a Houndour off guard as it ran to attack Michelle.

    [Trying to attack me as prey? You forget I can put you out!] Michelle warned as she blasted away the Houndours with a Water Pulse.

    "Good call, Michelle." Misty smiled a her faithful Golduck before hurrying to assist Pearl.

    [Incoming!] Pearl called as she Rapid Spinned her way through the crowd of snarling Houndours, knocking the pack to the ground.

    "Pearl, try Power Gem while they are down!" Misty called.

    [HAH!!!] Pearl heaved a watery sapphire at the pack, dousing all four Houndours just as another watery arrow landed on the ground.

    [Back off, everyone!] a fifth Houndour with shiny blue fur barked as he nimbly jumped down from a cliff. [Clearly the boy and his Pikachu are strong--i wish to challenge them myself.]

    [Okay, chief!] the other Houndours replied as they darted away, allowing their shiny leader to face Tintri.

    A few tense minutes passed, with neither Pokemon moving a muscle. "Why are they just staring each other down?" Misty wondered.

    "I guess it's a test of wills..." Brock suggested.

    He reared back as the shiny Houndour attacked first with an Ember, but heaved a relieved sigh as Tintri darted around it with a Quick Attack. As the Shiny Houndour looked for Tintri, Tintri heaved the strongest thunderbolt he could muster at his opponent. [HI-YAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!]

    [Retreat! Retreat!] the Shiny Houndour barked before heaving a cloud of smoke at the group, making the three humans, the Pikachu, the Golduck, and the Starmie cough as the Houndours disappeared into the brush.

    "Everyone okay?" Misty asked when she had recovered.

    "I think so." Ash replied before coughing up the last of the smoke. "Follow those Houndour!"

    ---------

    Meanwhile, the group arrived at a small cave at he end of the path. "This must be those Houndours' den..." Misty noted before noticing all the stolen belongings cluttered around a wounded Houndour. "I get it...the Houndours were taking things to help one of their own!"

    Brock froze when he heard a familiar roar-like cry. "Golem!" he gasped, pointing out a massive round reptilian Pokemon approaching the den, intent on harming the wounded Houndour. His first thought was to nock an arrow, but watched as the other Houndours and their shining leader arrived. [Go away! Leave Noir alone!] the leader demanded before the other Houndours heaved a collective Flamethrower at the massive Pokemon.

    "That's not gonna help..." Misty mused as the flames fizzled to nothing. "Rock can withstand fire..."

    Just then, she noticed the Golem about to heave a rock at the Shiny Houndour. "Oh no!"

    "I got this!" Ash made a flying jump towards the shiny leader, his body forming a shield around him as the rock hit his back.

    [You...saved me?] the Shiny Houndour gasped as Ash weakly stood up, his back lightly throbbing in pain from the rock. [Even though we were mortal enemies moments before?]

    "I did it because your pack needs you." Ash explained. "Without a leader, any group of Pokemon is helpless."

    The Shiny Houndour nodded. [You are wise beyond your years, human boy--my name is Duin, chief of the Blackpaws]

    He motioned to the wounded Houndour. [This is Noir, a young pup--he slipped and broke his paw playing in the crags one day, and though we do what we can, we fear the worst, as he grows sicker by the day.]

    "An infection..." Misty realized. "We have to get Noir to a Pokemon Center, and fast!"

    "Duin...we know where a healer is that may be able to help Noir." Ash explained. "Do you trust me enough to allow me to take him there?"

    "Ash! You realize we're in the middle of nowhere, and we'd have to walk a long way in order to get Noir to town?" Misty gasped.

    Duin nodded. [If this healer is as skilled as you say, we entrust Noir to your care, and allow you to take your belongings.]

    "Thanks!" Ash replied as he located his bag in the clutter, slung it on his back, and gently picked up the wounded Houndour.

    He turned to address Misty and Brock. "I can see the city lights in the brush, so I know I can carry Noir to the Pokemon Center."

    "All right...but we'll come with you just in case." Brock replied.

    Just then, Ash heard rustling in the bushes and gasped as Team Rocket climbed through the brush, covered in burs and thorns. "Team Rocket! You're not laying a finger on this Houndour!"

    "We'll take anything, walking through the brush was a lot of trouble..." Jessie groaned as she picked thorns from her shirt.

    "And with all the roots and spines everywhere, it makes our pain double..." James agreed as he pulled off a bur on his leg.

    The Houndours, meanwhile, ignited a few arrowheads with an Ember. "Thanks, guys..." Brock smiled as he aimed one of the fiery arrows at the Rockets, while each Houndour readied a Flamethrower.

    "To protect the--WAUUUUUUUUUUUGH!!!!" the Rockets screamed as the Houndours and Brock unleashed their flaming assault, buying Ash and Misty time to run towards the city lights...

    ---------

    "We...made...it..." Misty wheezed as she and Ash arrived at the Pokemon Center, locating Brock on a couch in the main lounge.

    "About time--I was hoping working with the Houndours to give the Rockets hot feet would give you enough time to get here." Brock wheezed. "After we scared them off, the pack was willing to give back what they stole--and so that's why I'm tired."

    Just then, Nurse Joy spotted the Houndour Ash carried. "Oh my! That Houndour's paw looks severely infected!"

    "I had to brave the brush in order to get it here." Ash explained as he gently gave Noir to Nurse Joy."

    "It's fortunate you brought it here--it would've died if you'd waited too much longer." Nurse Joy explained as a Chansey rushed Noir off to the emergency bay.

    ---------

    Nurse Joy returned a few hours later. "All right...I have an update on your Houndour. He is responding well to medicine, and he will recover, but we will keep him overnight before returning him to the wild."

    Everyone heaved a sigh of relief. "It turned out the wild Houndours in this area were taking food in an attempt to help their own." Ash explained.

    "I've already returned most of the stolen food to their owners...but here's one last thing that needs to return." Brock explained, offering Nurse Joy the ham.

    "My ham! Thank you!" Nurse Joy cried, hugging Brock joyfully.

    "Aw, it was nothin'" Ash smiled, but he noticed Brock's dreamy look from being embraced by one of his "two perfect girls". "We just did what we had to do."

    "It's too late to travel tonight, so we'll rest here before we leave in the morning." Misty suggested.

    "Good idea--I could use it after the long walk here." Ash agreed, to laughter from his companions as he sprawled out on a couch to doze...

    ---------

    "Remind me not to try and steal that Pikachu when the Robin Hood twerp is there..." James shuddered, ever aware of the flaming arrows that blanketed the ground around the tree they had climbed.

    "I'll say...I didn't count on hangin' out here tonight." Meowth grumbled as he tried to climb up to the branch Jessie was clinging to.

    Some growls snapped him to attention. "But I'll take da flamin' arrows over wild Houndour any day!" he screamed as he scrambled up the tree...

    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  5. #55
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 41: The Totodile Duel

    The whizzing of a fishing line filled the air as the three companions camped by a river. "Boy, fishing sure is boring..." Ash sighed as he watched his lure bob in the water.

    "I know, fishing can be boring, but they always say patience is a virtue." Misty assured her friend.

    "Virtue or not, it feels like we've been waiting for hours for a bite..." Ash was unimpressed.

    Brock, meanwhile, was baiting his own line with a Wurmple lure. "It could be the wrong time of day for fish to be out, or maybe we're all using the wrong kind of bait..." He let that hang as he cast his line.

    Misty was annoyed at Ash's constant complaining. "Well, maybe if you'd be quiet, you wouldn't scare all the fish away!"

    "Look who's talking!" Ash shot back.

    "I am NOT yelling! Misty retorted. "You are!"

    "Yes you are!"

    "No I'm not!

    "Oh, yes you are!

    "Am not!

    "Are too!"

    "Am not!"

    "Are too!"

    [And here they go again...] Ami smiled as she invited Tintri onto a large rock with some popcorn.

    [This is way better than TV...] Tintri agreed.

    Just then, Ash and Misty were jolted from their fight by Misty's line jerking. "I think you've got something!" Ash smiled.

    "Really?" Misty gasped, excited as she ran to her jerking rod and pulled it.

    But after a few minutes of pulling and tugging, the three trainers looked crestfallen at what Misty had actually caught. "I just caught a tea kettle..."

    "It put up a good fight, though..." Ash mused as he studied the old white teapot with faded purple flowers on it.

    "Maybe you can throw it back and try for a coffee maker?" Brock jokingly smiled.

    "I CAME HERE FOR POKEMON, NOT APPLIANCES!" Misty roared.

    She smiled as she took out a lure that looked like a miniature version of her in superhero's garb. "I guess it's time for me to bring out my secret weapon--the Mini-Misty DX!"

    The boys sighed as Misty cast her line into the water again, the lure's tiny cape fluttering is it flew towards the water. "I grew up around Water types, so I want to train as many as I can." Misty went on as she settled beneath a tree with Ami.

    Suddenly Ash spotted a familiar Totodile dancing on a rock in the stream. Of all the Totodiles I've seen here, I've never thought to look them up in the Pokedex... he thought as he opened Dexter:

    "Totodile, the big jaw Pokemon. Despite its small body, its jaws are very powerful. While it may think it is just playfully nipping, its bite has enough strength to cause serious injury."

    "Wow!" Misty was impressed. "I don't know if I'd want to have one of those!"

    Ash then recognized the Totodile dancing before the group. "Besides, this Totodile has an owner! This is Dundee!"

    "Dundee?" Misty asked before the name clicked. "Oh! Ethan's Totodile!"

    "I was wondering where he got to..." Ethan smiled as he and Lyra emerged from the brush. "He seems to love to dance..."

    "Maybe he could dance a little while we play?" Brock asked.

    "Yeah--you need to play 'The Ballad of Brian and Epona' for Ethan and Lyra." Misty suggested.

    "Brock's quite the songwriter as well as a storyteller, and has set a number of folktales and memorable events from our own travels to music." Ash explained. "My favorite one so far is 'The Ballad of Brian and Epona'"

    Lyra smiled. "We'd love to hear that song...after we parted ways last, Ethan and I have been exploring caves and ruins before we got back on this road."

    "Come prepared with Repels if you go to Azalea Town via Union Cave." Ethan cautioned.

    "Wasn't there a drought in that area?" Lyra wondered as she watched Hana and Dundee converse with Tintri.

    "Yeah--but we found out Team Rocket was harassing the Slowpoke, and we gave them what for!" Ash replied. "Brock's also put his archery skills to good use against them!"

    "Fire arrows are a good idea to scare them off, and an easy way to pop their Meowth balloon." Brock grinned as he joined Ash and Misty on the hill.

    "I see you have gotten some new Pokemon..." Lyra noted when she saw several new Poke Balls at Ash's side.

    "I have gotten some new team members...come on out, everyone!" Ash called as he heaved his four Poke Balls skyward.

    He then proceeded to introduce his newer Pokemon to his friends. "You've met River before, and this is Luce..." He gestured to the Mareep. "...and Cyndy." He gestured to the Cyndaquil.

    "Where did Blaze and Brenna get to?" Lyra wondered.

    "Blaze is honing his skills with the Charizards of the Charific Valley, and Brenna's returned to Kanto with her old Squirtle Squad." Ash replied, brushing away a tear at the thought of his old companions. "I miss them both, but I also know they're happy where they are--and they can always come back if they want."

    "That's very sweet of you, and probably not an easy decision for you to let them go." Lyra smiled. "You and River seem to get along well, and I'm sure you and Luce and Cyndy will be great teammates."

    "Would you be willing to have a friendly match?" Ethan offered. "Two of yours against my two--a Phanpy I caught and named Ellie, and Dundee?"

    "It's a deal!" Ash replied. "I choose River and Tintri for the match."

    ---------

    "Representing the Gold side, Ethan and Ellie!" Brock announced, making a grand gesture to Ethan and a small blue elephant-like Pokemon.

    [Bring it on!] the elephant Pokemon cried.

    "...and representing the Silver side, Ash and River!" Brock announced, making another gesture to Ash and River.

    [This'll be too easy!] River taunted.

    "Are both sides ready?" Brock asked.

    Both boys cheered in reply. "Good luck, Ash!" Misty called from a log.

    "Okay...and three...two...one..." With that, the referee's whistle echoed across the lake.

    "River, open with an Aqua Jet!" Ash commanded.

    "Ellie, use Protect!" Ethan called.

    [Hah!] River cried as she streaked at the Phanpy, only to find herself hitting a teal barrier. [What the...]

    "You forget Protect can deflect any and all attacks." Ethan smiled.

    Piqued, Ash dug out Dexter to read up on his opponent as River tried to attack from another angle:

    "Phanpy, the long nose Pokemon. It swings its long snout around playfully, but because it is so strong, that can be dangerous."

    A [WAUUUUGH!] got his attention, just in time to see the Phanpy whack River across their makeshift battlefield and land at his feet. "You okay?" he asked.

    [I think so...when they say a Phanpy's snout is strong, they aren't kidding!] River wheezed as she weakly stood up.

    "Ellie, use Rollout!" Ethan ordered, noticing the Marill was weakened.

    "River, try and use Superpower!" Ash commanded.

    Misty winced as both attacks landed at the same time. But when the dust cleared a few moments later, both Pokemon were heaving with exhaustion. [That had to hurt...] Ami noted.

    "I'm sure it did." Misty agreed as she watched Ethan and Ash recall their tired Pokemon.

    "Both sides have one Pokemon apiece!" Brock announced as Ethan sent out Dundee and Ash whistled for Tintri.

    "This should be easy, bud--you have an advantage." Ash smiled as Tintri stared down the Totodile before him.

    He balked as Dundee heaved a Water Gun at Tintri, making Tintri stumble backwards. "Tintri!"

    [I'm fine...] Tintri replied. [I can--!]

    This was far as he got before Dundee pounced on him with a Crunch attack, making him cry in pain from Dundee's powerful jaws!

    "Good work!" Ethan called. "Now, freeze him with Ice Fang!"

    [I can't give up...] Tintri growled as he weakly stood up to face the charging Totodile. [I WON'T GIVE UP!] he cried, unleashing a ball of electricity at the same time Dundee attacked.

    [Did Ash come through?] Ami wondered as the icy electric explosion started to clear.

    A familiar whistle pierced the air some seconds later. "Neither side has any Pokemon that can battle--this match is a tie!" Brock announced.

    "A tie...both boys must've been evenly matched." Lyra mused as she used a Revive on Tintri.

    "Thanks, Lyra." Ash replied as Tintri jumped aboard his shoulder again.

    "You did great in that match." Lyra smiled. "I hope I can battle you sometime."

    "Nice job, even if it did come out a tie." Misty agreed.

    Ethan turned to Ash. "Good match--I have to commend your heroic effort."

    "You did great yourself, even though you haven't been trained Pokemon for very long." Ash replied as the two friends shook hands. "We'll have to battle again when we both get stronger."

    "I'll hold you to that." Ethan smiled as he and Ash embraced.

    Lyra, meanwhile, told Brock "I'd really like to hear your ballad of 'Brian and Epona'." as she spread out a blanket and set out some food for the group to enjoy.

    "I don't see why not." Brock replied as he hurried to retrieve his guitar from the campsite.

    Once everyone was settled in and Brock was tuned, he started a brisk introduction before singing It's of a jolly beggarman came tripping o'er the plain,
    He came unto a castle fair, a lodging for to gain
    His Royal Highness, he came down and viewed him cheek and chin
    He said, 'You are a handsome man, of course I'll take you in...'


    We'll go no more a roving, a roving in the night, Ash and Misty eagerly joined in.
    We'll go no more a roving, let the moon shine so bright
    We'll go no more a roving...

    The beggar that the king took in, was not poor as he claimed,
    Brock started the next verse alone, trying not to laugh at Dundee dancing along on a rock.
    He really was a handsome prince, and Brian he was named
    He'd traveled far on a holy steed in search of fortune fine
    And bringing honor and great fame upon his royal line...


    "Everybody now!" Ash called before leading the chorus. We'll go no more a roving, a roving in the night
    We'll go no more a roving, let the moon shine so bright
    We'll go no more a roving...


    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  6. #56
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 42: Hot Matches! (part 1)

    "I'm glad to know Ethan and Lyra are doing okay." Misty smiled as Ash received his Pokemon from the front desk. It had been a few days since Ash had had a friendly match against Ethan and his enthusiastic Totodile, Dundee. Though the match had ended in a tie, both he and Ethan had promised to keep getting stronger.

    "They said they'd meet us on the main road after we're done here." Ash assured Misty as the group started for the Pokemon Center entrance.

    "According to the map, we should get back on the main road in a day or two." Brock reported, pointing out the group's current location and the point on the main road where Ethan and Lyra had promised to meet them.

    "Well, whatever you do, you may want to find another way to the main road." a navy haired boy cautioned as his Growlithe was rolled away into the intensive care bay. "Some red haired punk is challenging anyone that passes the bridge leading to the main road. He really did a number on Cameron, my Growlithe."

    "We'll be careful, okay?" Misty assured the boy as the group stepped out into the sunshine.

    "If this red haired punk is who I think it is, I have a bone to pick with him..." Ash muttered as he stepped over a tree root. "The roadside Pokemon Center stood at the end of a forested path, not far from the main road.

    "But what if it's not Kamon?" Brock suggested.

    "Then I'll show him--or her--that bullying people's not nice." Ash replied as the group rounded a corner that led towards the bridge.

    Misty gasped when she saw Kamon in the distance tending to a large steel bird Pokemon. "Speak of Darkrai...it is Kamon!"

    Ash growled when he saw Kamon, but Brock's hand on his shoulder calmed him. "Before you do something you'll regret later, will you let me try and talk to him?"

    "Okay..." Ash sighed as he did his best to calm himself--although Kamon had done many things that bothered him, he also knew that anger wasn't the best way to solve a problem.

    Kamon, however, smiled as Brock approached him. "Oh look, it's the bow wielding mage...what kind of spell are you gonna cast this time with your holy arrows?"

    "I'm not here to fight." Brock replied as he met Kamon on the bridge. "You've done some things that concern me and my friends, and I want to know if there is a way we can resolve things peacefully."

    "What's there to talk about? I'm on a Pokemon journey as much as you are." Kamon replied. "You guys keep trying to take the Pokemon I wanted to have."

    "For one thing, you were explicitly told you weren't supposed to go on a journey." Brock explained. "Then you tried taking a Totodile that was meant for another trainer, a young Pokemon that was in no way ready to leave the wild, and then you tried taking a Farfetch'd that very clearly belonged to another. All three times were stealing a Pokemon, and all we were doing was getting them back where they really belonged."

    "Okay, if it makes you feel any better, I got myself a Pokemon fair and square." Kamon replied, gesturing to the steel bird. "His name is Talavar--which means 'sword' in some language. If you're so confident, try and beat him! Send out your best Fire type!"

    "Why?" Brock asked as he took the Poke Ball containing his Vulpix, Hinata. "You know that since Steel types are weak to Fire, you're effectively asking for me to beat you?"

    "I wouldn't be so sure, Robin Hood...I want Talavar to be able to beat any type of Pokémon; even Fire types." Kamon smirked

    He turned to see Ash approaching. "So, are you gonna battle, or what?"

    Brock sighed, opened his bag, and dropped the chain holding his referee's whistle into Ash's hands. "Would you mind reffing for us, Ash?"

    "Sure!" Ash complied as he put the whistle around his neck.

    ---------

    "Representing the Gold side, Kamon and Talavar!" Ash announced, making the steel bird Pokemon cry in reply. "And representing the Silver side, Brock and Hinata!"

    [Bring it on, steel beak!] Hinata taunted, swishing her six tails in an attack display.

    "Are both sides ready?" Ash asked, to cheers from both ends of the bridge. "And three...two...one..."

    No sooner had the whistle blown did Talavar flap a dust cloud into Hinata's face. [GAH!] Hinata gasped as she made out Talavar swooping back into the air through her watering eyes.

    As Brock and Hinata watched for an opportunity to attack the massive steel bird Pokemon, Ash decided to read up on Brock's opponent:

    "Skarmory, the armor bird Pokemon. The feathers that it sheds are very sharp. It is said that people once used the feathers as swords."

    Wow...I hope Brock knows what he's doing... Ash thought as he turned his attention back to the battle.

    Just then, Brock noticed Talavar diving down towards Hinata! "Hinata, intercept the Skarmory with Flamethrower!"

    [HAH!] Hinata heaved a stream of fire at the diving Skarmory, only for it to power past the flames with Agility! Hinata would fire again, and Talavar would dive past it.

    After a few more Flamethrower attempts, Hinata grimaced. [Catch me if you can!] she taunted and dashed away thanks to her own Agility!

    "Come on, Brock! You can do it!" Misty called from behind a rock, where she and Ami watched Talavar and Hinata chase each other, desperately attempting to make the other fall in the water.

    Finally, Kamon noticed that Hinata was tiring. "Talavar, let's finish this with Steel Wing!"

    "NOOOOOOOOOO!!!" Brock cried as the Skarmory whacked Hinata with a glowing wing, sincing her flying across the bridge and landing at his feet.

    Tears formed in his eyes as the whistle confirmed his worst fear. "Silver is unable to battle--Gold wins!" Ash announced.

    "Hinata...you okay?" Brock asked as he got a Revive from his bag to wake his Vulpix.

    [Ow...that's gonna hurt in the morning.] Hinata grimaced as she shook her tails in a huff.

    "Is that all you've got?" Kamon asked Brock.

    Brock was about to answer when Ash replied "I've got a Fire type, but she might just be too hot for your Skarmory to battle against!"

    "Really? Try me, Wonder Boy." Kamon smirked.

    "You're better than me at reffing, actually." Ash told Brock as he returned the whistle.

    "You did pretty good for your first try, actually." Brock assured his friend as he ran to the middle of the bridge, where Ash had reffed moments before.

    ---------

    "And three...two...one..." Brock counted before blowing his whistle again, prompting Ash to send out Cyndy.

    "Talavar, open with a Fury Attack!" Kamon commanded, prompting the Skarmory to sind out a barrage of steel spikes. But Cyndy nimbly dodged every spike, and prepared to fire a Flamethrower of her own at the massive steel bird.

    [WAUGH!] Some Swift stars sent her rolling backwards, but she recovered enough to jump away from another wave of Fury Attack once, twice, three times...

    [OW!] she yelped as a fourth Fury Attack spike jabbed her in the stomach. Angered, Cyndy heaved a Flamethrower at her opponent, only for it to veer off to the right as the Skarmory flew away.

    "Cyndy! You try and intercept it!" Ash called.

    [Got it!] With that, Cyndy heaved another Flamethrower, only for it to miss the swooping and diving Skarmory again.

    Kamon threw up his hands in frustration. "Okay, I give...we'll call a truce, since we'll be here all day at this rate."

    "Okay, I concede as well." Ash replied.

    Brock just blew his whistle again to end the match. "Game Set! This match is a tie!"

    To Be Continued...
    Last edited by EmeraldSky; 01-29-2017 at 02:43 AM.
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  7. #57
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 43: Hot Matches! (part 2)

    "I am so glad to be back on the main road!" Ash smiled as he charged ahead of Misty and Brock. He figured Kamon had left after battling him to a draw, so they wouldn't have to risk resting at the Pokemon Center, and then their teams being thrashed again.

    "I'll say..." Brock mused. "Luckily, Hinata should be okay until we get to a town proper, provided we don't run into Team Rocket or something."

    "I'm in no mood to see those goons at the moment." Misty muttered. "It was bad enough seeing you guys get hammered by Kamon's new Skarmory, and who am I to think that Team Rocket could ambush us while we are weakened?"

    Ash shuddered as Brock consulted his guidebook. "Ethan did tell us before we parted ways that some Pokemon Daycares allow trainers to stop and rest for the night...so if we can't reach a town, we could try finding one of those to rest for the night, if you don't want to risk camping."

    "Like that one?" Ash pointed out a small house with a large field in the distance that resembled an identical picture in Brock's guidebook.

    "Speak of Darkrai..." Misty gasped. "Just what we need--provided the family is one of those that welcomes travelers."

    "Only one way to find out!" Ash grinned before hurrying to the house's front stoop and knocking.

    A dark brown haired man answered the door. "Oh, travelers! How can I be of service?" he asked as an auburn haired woman and a red haired girl joined him at the door.

    "We're not sure how far away a town is from here, so will you please grant the three of us shelter for the night?" Ash asked.

    "Of course--the house has some spare rooms just for this reason." the man replied. "Come on in and make yourselves at home."

    "You came at a good time--I was about to start dinner." the woman smiled. "Roast Combusken with all the trimmings--Miki's favorite." The red haired girl smiled, pleased that the group would be sharing her favorite meal with her family.

    "If you need a helping hand in the kitchen, I'd be happy to pitch in." Brock offered. "As well as some post dinner entertainment."

    As Brock and the woman departed into the kitchen, Miki noticed Tintri perched on Ash's shoulder. "How come your Pikachu isn't in his Poke Ball?" she asked.

    "Well, Tintri is one of those Pokemon that doesn't like being in a Poke Ball, so my solution is to leave him out--and my right shoulder is his preferred spot." Ash explained, bending down to Miki could pet Tintri. "We do almost everything together."

    "Kinda like that deep red haired guy and the Skarmory I've seen near the field lately..." Miki mused. "Maybe he does almost everything with his Skarmory too?"

    Kamon... Ash grimaced--the memory of his draw with Kamon was still fresh in his memory.

    "Something wrong, Ash?" Misty asked as she came downstairs.

    "Miki says she's been seeing Kamon a lot in this area with his Skarmory, and thinks they do almost everything together, like Tintri and I do." Ash explained.

    "Maybe Kamon isn't as bad or as evil as we think he is..." Misty suggested. "He may love his own Pokemon as much as we do ours."

    "That may be true, but he told us, in his exact words, that he is a 'punk with standards'." Ash reminded Misty. "This devotion to his Skarmory Talavar may be one of those standards."

    "We'll go with that, then." Misty smiled as she went to help Miki set the table.

    Ash, meanwhile, located Brock tending to some mashed potatoes in the kitchen. "I'm gonna take Cyndy outside and train for a bit, so I'd love if you'd keep my share of dinner warm."

    "You got it." Brock replied. "It should be ready here in a few minutes."

    "I'll try not to stay out too late!" Ash called back as he motioned for Cyndy to follow him out into the grassy hills that surrounded a forest.

    ---------

    "Come and get me!" Ash called in encouragement to the Cyndaquil running up the hill after him, giggling all the while.

    After the two of them reached the top of the hill, Ash instructed Cyndy. "Okay, now hit me with the hardest Tackle you can muster!"

    [HIIIIIIIII-YA!] Cyndy cried as she rammed into Ash, making him tumble down the hill. She noticed that even though he had fallen, he was still laughing as he eased himself to his feet and rejoined her at the top of the hill. This hardly seems like training at all--it's more like a game!

    "Okay...that was very good!" Ash wheezed as he composed himself. "Next, let's work on your Flamethrower!"

    Cyndy nodded, and unleashed a stream of flames into the sky. After firing the Flamethrower straight up, Ash watched as she made several more fire streams in several different directions, being careful not to set anything ablaze all the while.

    Ash applauded as Cyndy finished her Flamethrower display. "You're getting so good at controlling the flames--before they seemed to fizzle out if you turned your head or changed direction."

    [Thank you--your advice about focusing on a target was a big help.] Cyndy smiled. [What should we practice next?]

    Okay, we've gone over Tackle, we've gone over Flamethrower... Ash thought before an idea came to him. "Let's work on Agility next--try to catch me if you can!" he smiled before taking off down the hill.

    [I'm gonna getcha!] Cyndy called as she powered down the hill with Agility, eager to catch her running master in this glorified game of chase...

    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  8. #58
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 44: Hot Matches! (part 3)

    Back at the house, Miki noticed that Ash's place at the table was empty. "Where did Ash get to? I hope he's okay..."

    "He's fine--he just took his Cyndaquil Cyndy out to train for a while." Misty assured Miki as she passed Miki's mother the mashed potatoes.

    "If you're worried that he'll go hungry, relax, I gave Ash a share--it's being kept warm in the oven." Brock added as he refilled his glass with Leppa Berry juice. "Hopefully he'll be back in time for the sing-along after dinner."

    "I'm sure he will be--we won't start without him." Misty smiled as she fed Tintri a Leppa Berry.

    "Good--if you guys are as talented as you say, I wouldn't miss a sing-along for the world!" Miki smiled as she returned to her own meal.

    ---------

    Back on the hill, a growl got Ash's and Cyndy's attention. "Wow...have we really been out that late?" Ash wondered as he watched the sky begin to turn pink and orange as the sun sank below the trees. "I'm starved!"

    [Maybe we could go back...] Cyndy suggested. [I'm sure the others are worried about us.]

    "Okay...but before we do, do one more Tackle on me!" Ash asked.

    [All right, I'm coming at'cha!] Cyndy replied before barreling into Ash, sending him stumbling backwards and landing against a Leppa Berry tree.

    Moments after Ash examined himself and saw he was none the worse for wear, he was showered in Leppa Berries that had been dislodged by the force of Cyndy's attack. "Well, at least one of these should hold us until we get back to the house." he smiled before finding a suitable Leppa Berry in the pile.

    He balked when he saw an angry Beedrill looking back at him. "WAUGH!" he yelped as he dropped the Leppa Berry and took off down the hill.

    [Run for it!] Cyndy called as more Beedrills emerged from the tree.

    Ash nodded, and did his best to keep up with the Cyndaquil, periodically looking back to see if the Beedrills were gaining on them. We have to get back to the house, no matter what!

    He did not, however, expect to trip over a rock buried in the grass. [ASH!] Cyndy screamed as she watched Ash tumble head over heels into a heap, his arms dotted with various scratches and nicks.

    She gritted her teeth as she heard the low hum of the Beedrills approaching--she was not about to have her master be stung by thousands of Beedrills! [Beedrills! Don't you dare sting my master!] she warned before unleashing a Flamethrower into the approaching swarm, burning many of the Beedrills.

    Ash came to in time to see the remainder of the swarm flying away. "Ungh...Cyndy...did you just--ow--rescue me?"

    [I sure did!] Cyndy smiled as she gently rubbed some of Ash's wounds with her quills, creating a soothing warmth that eased the pain. [We didn't even need Brock to come out here and shoot an arrow at them!]

    Ash smiled. "Thank you--if we get to battle Kamon and his Skarmory in the morning, remember how you rescued me and fought off those Beedrills, okay?"

    [If I can take on those buzzers, I can take on a Skarmory easy!" Cyndy smiled as she led Ash back to the house.

    ---------

    "Ash! You made it!" Misty smiled as Ash and Cyndy returned some moments later. "Although...what happened to you?" she asked as Brock hurried to assess the many bites and wounds on Ash's arms.

    "We were training on the hill near the house, and I asked Cyndy to Tackle me." Ash explained. "She did, and I landed against a Leppa Berry tree. Just as I found one that was ripe enough to eat, I saw a Beedrill on it, which angered a whole swarm!"

    "So, what did you do?" Brock was interested.

    "We tried to run away, but as we ran, I tripped on a rock." Ash went on. "That explains all the bites and scratches. Just when it looked like the end, Cyndy ran in front of the swarm and used Flamethower. She managed to burn almost the whole swarm!"

    "Wow!" Miki gasped.

    "Maybe she might be ready to try taking on Kamon and Talavar again." Brock smiled. "But he's probably gone to bed by now, so we'll try to find him in the morning."

    As soon as he was happy with all the swirls of medicine on Ash, he saw Miki waiting with hopeful eyes. "All right--gather 'round and we'll have our sing-along and storytime."

    [YAAAAAAAAY!!!!] Cyndy was just as excited as Miki was as she followed Ash into the living room, where the others had gathered.

    Once the group had settled in and their instruments were tuned, Brock kicked off the first story of the night. "Once upon a time, in a place far from here, and in a time far from now, there was a queen who had three beautiful daughters, who were renowned far and wide for their beauty, wisdom, and kindness to all. They were courted by kings and princes, and many others of high degree, but hadn't yet chosen any of them. One day a great prince, that no one knew, and who had never been seen in that land before, came, like the others, looking for the hand of one of these beautiful ladies. But the queen approved of him, in case he was able to succeed in winning the willing hand of either of her daughters...."

    ---------

    The next morning, the group and Kamon met near the same hill Ash and Cyndy had trained by the night before. "You realize that you're asking to be beaten?" Kamon smirked as Talavar eyed the tiny Cyndaquil.

    "Bring it on!" Ash snapped back. "Cyndy's a lot stronger than yesterday!"

    "All right, but don't come crying to me when your Cyndaquil has to be rushed to the emergency bay." Kamon grinned as he motioned for Brock to give the count.

    "Okay! Three...two...one..." Brock counted before blowing his whistle to start the match.

    As if the whistle was its cue, Talavar took flight, circling around the makeshift battlefield once before diving in with a Steel Wing. But when Cyndy didn't appear to be any the worse for wear, the huge armored bird grimaced and soared skyward again.

    Ash just calmly observed the circling Skarmory from the Silver side of the arena. "Remember how you saved me from the Beedrills last night." he reminded Cyndy.

    [Don't worry...] Cyndy growled before bracing herself for a second Steel Wing. Although the second attack sent her sliding backwards, she shook off the pain and bounded forward, waiting for an opportunity to counter her huge opponent.

    I see...it's vulnerable right after it delivers Steel Wing! Ash thought as he watched the Skarmory fly away again. Maybe if Cyndy has enough strength to attack after it attacks again...

    He called "Cyndy, use Flamethrower if you can!" as soon as he heard the THWANG! of a Steel Wing impacting.

    [HAAAAH!!!] Cyndy cried as she unleashed a stream of flames, sending the armored bird crashing to the ground, writhing in pain from the fire.

    "Gold is unable to battle--the match goes to Silver." Brock announced as Cyndy cheered.

    Kamon seemed surprisingly calm at his loss. "So you managed to find the fatal flaw in my strategy--well played." he smirked. "That just means I have to train even more until I can be invincible--and you won't have a lucky shot to save you when that happens!" With that, he stormed off in a huff.

    "Great job, Ash..." Miki smiled. "I want to learn to be a great hero like you--and like the heroes in the stories your friend tells. So I'm going on a journey of my own."

    "Oh Miki..." Miki's mother hugged her daughter. "Whatever path you take in your Pokemon journey, we'll support you all the way."

    "I believe you could be a hero like Ash, sweetie." Miki's father agreed.

    Miki, meanwhile, hugged Ash one last time. "Be safe on your own travels, Ash--and I hope you and I can meet again!"

    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


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  10. #59
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    Episode 45: Dundee's First Love (part 1)

    After bidding Miki and her family goodbye, the group had no problem meeting up with Ethan and Lyra. The walk since their meeting had taken the five travelers under a forested canopy. After following the winding path under the trees for a while, they emerged onto another stretch of open road nearby a lake.

    "We should be coming up on Lake Cobalt over on the left..." Brock reminded the group as they rounded the bend near the lake.

    "Perfect spot for a picnic, actually." Lyra agreed. "Anybody need a break from walking?"

    "I do...it's getting hot." Ash complained as he wiped the sweat from his brow.

    "We're right here by the lake, so I have no problem making camp here." Misty assured Lyra before heaving four of her five Poke Balls skyward. "Come out out, guys! Break time!"

    "What about the fifth Pokemon?" Lyra wondered as she watched Michelle make a flying leap into the water. "It deserves some swim time too."

    "Well, a Lapras would take up the whole lake, so I only get Aurora out near the beach." Misty assured Lyra.

    "That's fair." Lyra replied before returning to her waiting picnic supplies.

    "River, you too!" Ash heaved the Poke Ball with his Marill skyward.

    "Dundee, come on out!" Ethan called as he tossed the Poke Ball containing his Totodile skyward.

    Dundee yawned as he materialized on the grass, but perked up when he saw the forms of Magikarps swimming beneath the lake surface. [Look at me! I'm a TV star!] he called to Ethan as he proceeded to spray water at the Magikarps, juggling them like balls.

    Misty couldn't help smiling at Dundee's juggling act. "Well! If Dundee wants to go on a talent show on TV, let him--he's got the perfect act!"

    "I dunno--my biggest fear is if he gets stage fright on 'Johto's Got Talent'." Ethan mused.

    Just then, Dundee was snapped to attention by a female voice in the distance. [Floating in the sky, just like the silver moon
    Although I try to reach you, I can't hold you, and you slip away...]


    Piqued, Dundee followed the song to another part of the lake shore, where a blue and white spotted rabbit-like Pokemon with similar features to a Marill was singing the song:

    [From within the darkness, I reach for the future
    Although I call out for you, my voice only fades away...]


    Dundee's eyes turned to hearts over the rabbit Pokemon and her song. She's so beautiful! I'm gonna do a little dance for her!

    With that, he dashed out before the rabbit Pokemon and proceeded to tap dance to a melody only he seemed to hear. The rabbit Pokemon, however, was unimpressed with the dancing Totodile before her, so she sprayed him with a Water Gun before walking off in a huff, to Dundee's despair.

    ---------

    Meanwhile, the five humans and some of their other Pokemon had settled in to enjoy the mini sandwiches Lyra had packed, when a rustle in the bushes got Misty's attention. "Huh?"

    She gasped when a Golduck with glowing dark blue feathers and a red beak and webbing emerged from the brush. "A Shiny Golduck!"

    "Before you get too excited, I would wait to see if anyone owns that Shiny Golduck first." Brock cautioned as the Shiny Golduck peeked in several more bushes and behind trees, as if looking for someone or something.

    Just then an auburn haired girl emerged from the brush with a Pidgey not far behind her. "Any luck, Wave?" she asked the Golduck as the Pidgey perched on her shoulder.

    [Not so far...I've checked every place Breeze said to check.] the Golduck sighed.

    "Please leave the guitar behind..." Misty hissed as Brock got up from the table to introduce himself, desperately hoping Brock would not try to sing to a girl that was in obvious distress.

    "Hi there--my name's Brock." Brock began as he approached the girl. "Is there something I can do for you?"

    A hopeful look formed on the girl's face. "My name's Trixie--nice to meet you. "Have you happened to see any Azumarills around here?"

    Brock then emerged with a familiar guitar in hand, making Misty facepalm. "I may not have seen any Azumarills around here, but please, have a song to inspire your search!"

    With that, he started a familiar introduction, oblivious to Trixie's confused look and Misty storming in his direction. It's of a jolly beggarman came tripping o'er the plain,
    He came unto a castle fair, a lodging for to gain
    His Royal Highness, he came down and viewed him cheek and chin
    He said, 'You are a handsome man, of course I'll take you in...!


    "You'll do no more a-singin', Mr. Balladeer!" Misty snapped as she dragged Brock back to the table, guitar and all. "She looks clearly distressed, and the best you can do is sing one of your stupid ballads?"

    Trixie stifled a giggle at Misty ranting before Ash spoke up. "Forgive Brock, Miss Trixie--he just likes to serenade any girl he can find."

    He then changed the subject. "May I ask what you're looking for?"

    "I'm looking for my Azumarill, Meri." Trixie explained as the Azumarill from before tiptoed behind her master's legs. "Have you seen her?"

    Piqued, Ash decided to consult Dexter:

    "Azumarill, the aqua rabbit Pokemon. By keeping still and listening intently, it can tell what is in even wild, fast-moving rivers."

    "Cool!" Ash smiled.

    He heard Dundee making kissy noises at Meri, but Meri just turned her head away.

    ---------

    "Here we are, gang--the Cirque Jubilee!" Trixie smiled as she made a grand gesture to a large blue and white circus tent and several smaller tents in the distance.

    "Wow..." the group gasped as they looked out at the sprawling grounds.

    "It's beautiful!" Lyra raved.

    "Thank you--I've enjoyed the circus and performing since I was very little, so it only made sense I taught all my Pokemon to do tricks." Trixie replied. "However, over the last week or so, I've had trouble with Meri, who has been acting weird since Wave joined the troupe."

    Elsewhere, Brock had decided to pitch in in setting up the show. "Okay, Dundee--think you can fill this swimming pool for the high dive act?" he asked the excited Totodile, gesturing to a large inflatable swimming pool that had just been inflated.

    [Okay!] Dundee replied before taking a deep breath and unleashing a Water Gun, filling up the pool. [Be right back!] he called before hurrying off.

    "What are you--!" Brock asked before he saw Dundee return with Meri, and set her in the pool. He then winced as Meri sprayed Dundee, then stormed off.

    "I'm confused...why would Dundee be suddenly obsessed with this Azumarill?" Ethan wondered as he retrieved Dundee and dried him off.

    "Maybe he's falling in love?" Misty suggested.

    A grin formed on Ethan's face. "There's an idea...who would've thunk Pokemon could develop crushes too?"

    ---------

    "And now, here's Meri the Marvelous and her amazing water juggling act!" Trixie announced, to thunderous applause from a large crowd as a spotlight appeared on Meri, who was juggling a set of seven balls with a single Water Gun.

    "Whoa! She's good!" Ash raved.

    Misty noticed Dundee squirming to get free from Ethan's arms. "Dundee's being antsier than usual..."

    "He's--!" Ethan started before Dundee wriggled free from his arms and made a beeline for the stage! "Dundee! NOOOOOOO!!!"

    He watched as Dundee eagerly danced for the crowd a little, but when someone threw a Tamato Berry at him in an attempt to get him offstage, he eagerly sprayed it with a Water Gun, proceeding to juggle it himself.

    The crowd roared with laughter and eagerly threw more Berries for Dundee to juggle. [Fine--if that lovesick Totodile wants to upstage me, he can have the stage!] Meri grumbled before storming off with a huff.

    Back in the audience, Ash took the lights going down as an opportunity to capture Dundee. "Come on, Ethan--if we're gonna get Dundee off the stage, now's our chance!"

    "Right!" Ethan replied and followed Ash to a stage entrance. He was already embarrassed enough that Dundee had upstaged the scheduled acts, but deep down, he feared he would be even more embarrassed by being roped into an act.

    Neither of the boys realized that Dundee had finished juggling Berries and had dashed off after Meri until they felt spotlights appear on them and a recording of the Johto reel "The Chorus Line" blared into the air, making both boys freeze in their tracks.

    Inspired, Ash decided to shuffle-step in time to the beat. When in Orre... Ethan sighed as he too mimicked Ash's shuffle-stepping, making sure to mimic every kick, roll step, toe step, and jump his friend did. To the crowd, it looked like the two boys onstage had been trained in traditional dancing for years, when in actuality, they were only making up the steps as they went along.

    Even Lyra was impressed as the reel "Goldenrod House" began. "Wow...I didn't know Ash and Ethan knew how to step dance!"

    "They don't--they're only making it up as they go." Misty replied, trying oh-so-hard not to laugh at Ash's and Ethan's awkward smiles as they "danced" to the song.

    The song ending and the boys taking a relieved bow gave her an idea. "Okay Brock--now you can sing one of your folktale ballads while Ash and Ethan look for Dundee."

    "You got it!" Brock replied as he hurried off, guitar in tow.

    Ash motioned for Ethan to follow him backstage as Brock started the introduction to the ballad he had tried to sing before, making the audience clap along. "Brock's got the audience busy, let's find Dundee!"

    "Right behind you." Ethan smiled. "Although...that step dancing cover was a good idea, even if we were making up the steps on the fly."

    "The sooner we find Dundee, the better." Ash muttered as he heard Brock lead the ballad's chorus on the stage:

    We'll go no more a roving, a roving in the night
    We'll go no more a roving, let the moon shine so bright
    We'll go no more a roving...


    To Be Continued...
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


  11. #60
    Senior Moderator EmeraldSky's Avatar
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    Episode 46: Dundee's First Love (part 2)

    Elsewhere, Team Rocket watched Ash and Ethan's awkward dance and Brock's epic ballad from the safety of a bush. "So, the two hat boys fancy themselves dancers, do they..." Jessie smiled. "Maybe if we just grabbed that Azumarill and the hat-twerp's Pikachu, we could start our own little traveling show..."

    "And Robin Hood twerp also fancies himself a rock star...interesting." James smiled, bemused over Brock singing and playing guitar on the stage.

    "I dunno, you guys...I don't want my tail used as a chew toy..." Meowth was unsure about his human companions' idea.

    A smile formed on his face. "I would, however, be game for a soykis if I got ta announce da acts rather dan bein' an act."

    "All right, what would you put in our traveling show if we let you announce the acts?" Jessie was intrigued.

    "It'd be a show for da ages--not jus' for da admins and da boss, but truly da greatest show on oith!" Meowth replied, slipping into a daydream of a crowd of Rockets entering a huge circus tent, with the four admins and Giovanni in a private box overlooking the center ring. "And it wouldn't be jus' you guys and any swiped Pokemon handlin' da acts--any of da grunts dat could perform could join in!"

    "Okay...so what kind of acts do you think Archer, Ariana, Petrel, and Proton would like?" James asked as the Meowth in the daydream announced Meri doing her juggling act, to "aw"s and laughter from the Rockets in the audience.

    "Lessee here...Archa likes big spectacle, so any acrobatical act would be poifect!" Meowth replied as in his daydream, Jessie, as a trapeze artist, performed a graceful somersault over the crowd and stuck the landing, to Archer's ecstatic applause.

    "Ariana loves da teater, so any sort of tricks with actin' will do for her." Meowth mused as in his daydream, James proceeded to perform a Pyroar taming act with a story.

    "Petrel likes magic acts and illusions...." Meowth mused as a Rocket magician appeared on the stage. "But don't tink we're jus' pullin' Bunearies out of a hat--dese will be tricks so amazin' you have ta see'em to believe'em!" The Petrel in the daydream gasps in awe as the young magician performs a clothing change trick.

    "Protons' da techno-geek, so anyting with video game music and lasas will do for him." The daydream shows some more acrobats doing an elegant aerial dance to a techno version of The Legend of Zelda theme, to the Proton in the dream's awe.

    In the present, Meowth sighed dreamily as he imagined his circus. "That's actually a good idea, Meowth--let's move out and get those Pokemon, and we'll make your dream circus come true." Jessie's voice snapped the tiny cat-Pokemon back to reality.

    "Okay--right behind ya!" Meowth replied as he hurried to catch up to his companions.

    ---------

    "I'm so sorry Dundee upstaged your act, Trixie." Ethan apologized some time later, after the show had ended. "I don't know what got into him, but he seems obsessed with your Azumarill for some reason..."

    "It's okay--you and your friends are pretty talented yourselves." Trixie replied.

    "Speaking of Dundee, where did he get to?" Misty wondered.

    "Last I checked, I gave him to Brock to try and talk some sense into him, but I think he's only making the problem worse..." Ethan groaned as he looked over towards a tree, where Brock was talking to Dundee.

    "If you want a girl to like you, they love getting gifts." Brock explained. "So why don't you try giving Meri some of the Pokechow I made yesterday?"

    [Okay!] Dundee smiled as Brock gave him three balls of Pokechow, then hurried over to the lakeshore, where Meri was resting. [Would you like a snack? Fresh Pokechow?] he asked, offering Meri one of the balls.

    [No thanks--I wouldn't want to spoil my dinner] Meri replied as she got up to leave.

    [Aw...] Dundee sighed. But his sadness turned to horror when he saw a large net come down onto Meri! [Meri! I'll save ya, sweetheart!] he called before hurrying off after the net

    Horrified at seeing Meri captured, and Dundee's heroic efforts to grab at the net as it was dragged through the grass, Brock fumbled for his referee's whistle. I never thought I'd have to use the alert signal I once learned as a scout, but this is an emergency!

    With that, he blew a single long blast, sending Ash, Misty, Ethan, and Lyra hurrying to the shoreline. "What happened?" Ethan asked, his heart pounding in fear as he watched Dundee grab at the net.

    "I was trying to teach Dundee some proper behavior around a lady when I saw a net come out of nowhere and take Meri." Brock explained. "Dundee chased after it, and is still trying to grab at it."

    Ash growled as a familiar Meowth balloon appeared in the sky, allowing Dundee to see that the net was attached to the basket. "I knew Team Rocket would catch up to us sooner or later..."

    "Your little friend can try all he wants, but it won't be worth the trouble." Jessie smirked as Dundee tried to jump onto the net.

    "And should he fall from the sky, he pain will be double!" James agreed.

    With that, the two Rockets began the all-too-familiar motto:

    "To protect the world from devastation..."

    "And unite all peoples within our nation..."

    "To denounce the evils of truth and love!"

    "To extend our reach to the stars above!"

    "Jessie!"

    "James!"

    "Team Rocket! Blast off at the speed of light!

    "Surrender now, or prepare to fight!"

    "Meowth! Dat's right!"

    "Errrgh...Tintri, use Thunderbolt!" Ash called.

    "Not today, hat-boy!" Meowth sneered as he trapped Tintri inside a shock-proof jar. "You want him? Come and get him!"

    "Tintri!" Ash called as the balloon flew away.

    [I'll save them both!] Dundee vowed as he hurried off in the direction the balloon was going. [Even if I have to go to the end of the world to do it!]

    "No!" Ethan gasped as he and Ash hurried off after Dundee. "Dundee, it's too dangerous! Please, come back!"

    ---------

    "Well...we got back Dundee, and then lost him again..." Ethan sighed a few hours later, as he and Ash returned to the camp near the shore, where the group had gathered to plan their next move.

    "But we need to get back Tintri and Meri..." Ash sighed as he shared a tearful embrace with Trixie.

    He then turned his cap back. "Trixie...you have our word we will do everything we can to save Meri, okay?"

    "Well, we can't do any rescuing while we're having one big pity party!" Misty grumbled. "I know it hurts to lose a Pokemon, but we can't sit here and cry all night! We have to do something!"

    "So what do you suggest, Lady Misty?" Brock asked, bowing before Misty as if she were a knight.

    "Let's begin our search on the other side of the lake, in the direction the balloon went--the Rockets can't have gone very far." Misty began as Ash helped her break camp.

    "Breeze, try to search from the air, and tell us if you see any sign of those hoodlums that Poke-napped Meri." Trixie instructed her Pidgey.

    "If we find the balloon, I'll be happy to pop it again." Brock grinned as he retrieved his archery gear, put out the campfire, and followed Misty and the others into the brush...

    To Be Continued...
    Last edited by EmeraldSky; 02-12-2017 at 04:20 PM.
    Everyone has a dream that fills their heart. A journey they must take. A destiny to fulfill. As close as your imagination exists a magical place, where wondrous creatures with incredible powers help make dreams come true. It's the world of Pokemon!!"


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