Search for Knowledge: A Champion's Story

[Mikey]

This is a new fanfic I just started. Usually when I start a fic I get bored and stop, but this one is going to go all out. Chapter 1 mainly introduces you to the three main characters and a few of the cameo people. The story will start getting good next chapter, but enjoy this one for now.

Chapter One: The Beginning of a Legend

It was 4 am when the alarm went off in Mike's room. With a swat of his hand, the alarm flew across the room and hit the floor hard. Mike sat up rubbing his eyes. This was the earliest he had every gotten up, especially since he got home from last night's party at 3 am! He slowly got to the side of the bed and stood up stretching. After a few yawns and brushing back his dark-blonde tipped hair, he started for the light switch.


"Bah, a person shouldn’t have to walk this far to bring light into the room." He thought to himself as he switched on the light. With another rubbing of the eyes, he sat at the edge of his bed and turned on the television. The channel was set to channel 4, and when Mike tried to turn it, the station stayed.


"What the hell is going on here, I want to watch South Park!" He screamed to himself. "Bah, I guess this is better then nothing." He started to watch what was on the screen. It looked like some educational show, with a teacher and everything.


"Welcome to the Pokemon Tech TV Station!" The instructor blared. As soon as those words were uttered, Mike remembered why his alarm went off so early. Today was the start of his classes at Pokemon Tech! "Yes, I get a Pokemon to train with today!" He remembered this and many other aspects of what the students received. His mother had enrolled him along with 2 of his best friends.


The instructor on the television continued to talk and Mike couldn't help but turn it up. "As most students know from the broacher, each student that begins classes today will be issued a beginner's Pokemon, a Pokedex, and Pokeballs. Though each student will receive these, they are not allowed to leave school grounds to catch Pokemon at any times. Each student must spend the entire month at the school and get a passing grade. If they do, they will receive a trainer card which will allow them to start their journey collecting badges." The instructor finished his introduction and continued to a nearby table.


"There are over 100 species of Pokemon that will be available for first beginners, but there is only one of each type. To assure that our students can handle any type of Pokemon, they will choose their beginner randomly. That is all you need to know for now, the rest of the information will be given in your morning classes." The instructor finished his speech and the screen began to flash images of the Pokemon that would be available.


Mike instantly got up and walked to his closet. There he pulled out his navy blue shirt and slipped it on. He then put on his newly purchased blue jeans and finally his hunter green vest. Mike had spent the whole summer getting in shape for this journey, and he was now more muscle then anything. After, he walked to the door and into the hall. As he slipped into the bathroom, he could hear his mom making breakfast. She always made a huge one before he would leave somewhere.


After doing the normal bathroom tasks, Mike joined his mom in the kitchen. There he was presented with a feast of steak and eggs! His mother sat down next to him with a disgruntled look on her face. "What is it mom?" Mike asked.


"O nothing, just waiting for your lazy brother to get up. His first day of Pokemon Tech and he is still sleeping! I don't know what I'm going to do with him!" She laughed. Mike's brother Matt was a year older then him, but his mother decided to enroll him when Mike was ready. He wasn't that into Pokemon training, but he needed a hobby.


Matt slowly walked out of his room. He was dressed, but poorly. "I decided not to do my hair today; it'll save time!" He smirked. He then grabbed his backpack from the kitchen and headed toward the door. "Where do you think you're going?" His mom asked. "My friends are waiting outside so that's where!" He smirked before walking out the door.


"Yeah, I better head off too." Mike replied as he grabbed his backpack. "Be safe!" His mom told him and with a final hug, Mike stepped into the nice morning air. He left the security of his front yard to the open road. Matt and his pals were already up ahead, but Mike wasn't about to join them.


After a few steps he turned onto the drive way of his best friend Jeff's house. After several rings of the doorbell, Jeff opened the door. His hair was freshly cut and he wore his black and blue sleeved shirt. Mike laughed. Jeff always looked so tall and gimpy, and the fact that he wanted to train dark types was even funnier. Jeff had a light-hearted, energetic, and carefree personality, all of which are not qualities of dark Pokemon.


"You ready?" Mike asked as Jeff stepped out the door. "Ready as I'll ever be." Jeff replied. The two boys continued down the road some more before reaching their last stop. This was the home of Amanda, Mike's long time best friend. They knew each other since they were 6, and have grown up spending countless days just chilling in each other's houses. She was already waiting on the porch and when she saw the, she jumped up and rushed toward them. Amanda had long brownish hair. She was a little short, but very pretty. Her purple bandana and matching shirt were on, as it was her "lucky ensemble". She smiled as she approached, and after a brief conversation, the three headed off to Pokemon Tech. "I can't wait to get my first Pokemon!" Amanda announced as they headed off. "As long as it's a dark type, I don't mind!" Jeff added in. "We'll just have to wait and see." Mike ended with as they approached the front gate of what will be the greatest month of their lives…..

Next Chapter- Beginners Galore! Time to Choose!
Mike and his friend's choose their beginners, and start their classes. ETA- Later Today

[RJdude]

Hey, this is pretty good. It's well written, and has good potential. My only suggestion is that you space out the paragraphs.

See how easy is it to tell one paragraph from the other? But that's your only flaw (don't worry, I didn't space out when I started either). You did a Good job, and I can't wait to see what Pokemon they'll get. Keep it up.

[Mikey]

Thanks RJ! Here's Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Beginners Galore! Time to Choose!

The gates opened up to a wide park environment surrounded in foliage. Mike and his friends walked in to see many students littered the area. As they headed up the dirt path that lead to the school, three young boys happily ran by. A Pidgey, Rattata, and Shroomish followed after.


"Looks like they already got their beginners." Mike noted to the others as they approached the wide set of stairs that lead to the doorway. The three walked inside to see 100's of new students at the front desk. There was a lot of commotion, but Mike expected this for the first day. He shot a look to his right to see a little girl bawling her eyes out. Her mother tried to soothe her. "A Caterpie is a great beginner Pokemon!" She said. The girl began to cry harder and Mike noted that maybe the random selection isn't such a good idea.


When he came too, he saw Amanda and Jeff already in line to register. He quickly walked up to them as Amanda began her registration. The lady gave her a small eye and reaction test, then sent her to the Pokeball table. "Crap, Mike I forgot my contacts!" Jeff remembered. "Jeff, just take the exam, your eyes can't be that bad if you can see right now!" Jeff sighed and stepped up.


"Read the top!" The bulky woman said. She sounded bored and Mike didn't blame her. Dealing with students all day must be tough. Jeff began to read the letters. "Um, E, H, 4, 676…" He began. The woman stared at him blatantly. "Son, they are all letters…" She replied. Jeff sat up from the eye test and explained about his contacts. The woman grinned and escorted him to a phone to call his parents. Mike sighed and stepped up to take his.


After taking the test, Mike moved along to receive the custom Pokeballs the school offered. They were like normal ones, except baby blue in colors. Amanda was receiving her Pokedex now. She then stepped off to the side to pick her first Pokemon. While waiting in line for his Pokedex, Mike watched her pick one of the Pokeballs. "Ahh, now let's see what you have their." The instructor replied. She threw the Pokeball onto the ground. It bounced a bit then opened up in a flash of red to reveal Amanda's beginner Pokemon.


"Ralts!" The Pokemon cried as it placed its hand on its helmeted head. "Ahh, great choice miss. Let me record your Pokemon. By the way, it's called Ralts and it's a psychic type!" He added in. Amanda stared at it for some time, and then bent down. The Pokemon smiled and waddled towards her. "It's cute!" She said as she picked it up. She then pulled out her Pokedex and scanned the little creature.


"Ralts; the feeling Pokemon. Ralts senses the emotions of people using the horns on its head. This Pokemon rarely appears before people. But when it does, it draws closer if it senses that the person has a positive disposition…" The Pokedex uttered. Mike walked up to her after getting his Pokedex. "Wow, you must have a very positive disposition. Ralts really likes you!" He smiled happily. Amanda nodded. "Pick your Pokemon Mike! I can't wait to see what you get!" She happily said.


Mike walked up to the table to find many Pokeballs. All of them looked the same, and his choice now determined his best al for the rest of his life. After scanning for some time, Mike decided to go with the one farthest to the left. He really wanted the right side, but he read somewhere that it's best to go with the opposite direction in times of uncertainty. He picked the Pokeball up and casually threw it down. Like Amanda's, it erupted in a fountain of red after hitting the ground. There stood Mike's first Pokemon.


"Tttttrike!" it growled happily. "Ha, you got Electrike! It's an electric Pokemon!" The instructor commented. Mike leaned down as Electrike sniffed at his heel. He petted the furry back of the cute Pokemon, and then took out his Pokedex.


"Electrike; the lightning Pokemon. Electrike stores electricity in its long body hair. This Pokemon stimulates its leg muscles with electrical charges. These jolts of power give its legs explosive acceleration performance." The Pokedex marked. "Wow, you got Speedy Gonzalez!" Jeff said as he approached. "And Amanda, you got…a helmet head!" Jeff laughed. "Shut up and pick your Pokemon!" Amanda laughed.


Jeff walked towards the desk and casually picked a ball. "Here comes my dark type!" He grinned and threw the ball. In an eruption of red, a small circle formed. "dot dot dot!" The Seedot said as it happily leaped up and down. "Cutey!" Amanda grinned. "It's pretty cool!" Mike laughed. He then saw jeff drop the Pokeball; his mouth wide in shock. "No…dark….type!" Were his first words in moments. They were so silent it was hardly audible.


"NO DARK TYPE!" This however, was loud and heard throughout the school. Seedot waddled up to Jeff and rubbed against his leg. It then proceeded to roll around on the ground. "Keep it down sir! That's a Seedot you got there right? Don't worry; its evolved forms will be part dark. You'll get your dark type eventually!" The instructor informed him. Jeff stared down at the rolling acorn again. He then picked it up.


"So you become a big scary dark type, huh?" He asked it. The Pokemon grinned. Jeff then pulled out his Pokedex to learn more." Seedot; the acorn Pokemon. Seedot attaches itself to branches using the top part of its head. It sucks moisture from the tree while hanging off the branch. The more water it drinks, the glossier this Pokemon's body becomes." "Great, if I give you water, you can become a lamp!" Jeff shouted. The Seedot just happily smiled at him.


"Let's go Jeff; we have to check out our dorm!" Mike shouted. Jeff took off after his friends. The three headed down the long twisting hallways with their new Pokemon in hand. Ralts seemed to really enjoy Amanda's company, but stayed clear of Jeff. "Even Ralts can sense you have a rather negative disposition!" Amanda laughed as the group headed down. Jeff was busily seeing how high Seedot could go. He threw it high into the air and caught it as it descended. Electrike and Mike got off to a good start. The Pokemon was really energetic, and after some time, Mike put it down so it could run off some energy.


The group had to pass by the tennis courts to get to the next part of the dorm hallway. It was a beautiful day outside, so they decided to stop at the tables to the side. Mike looked around a bit as Electrike investigated some nearby bushes. "Hey Mike, it's your brother!" Amanda pointed to the tennis court. There he was, playing tennis with his friend Kevin. To the side of him was a Totodile. It slashed as the tennis ball came over the net and sent it back to a Houndour hat was also playing.


"Your brother is actually playing doubles with a Pokemon?" Jeff asked. He then added in about how much he liked Houndour. The three stood up and Mike motioned to Matt. "Get lost! I'm busy!" He stammered and hit the ball back over the net. "Wow, an idiot as usual!" Amanda replied. Ralts didn't like him either, and it should it by folding its arms. Mike looked down at Electrike, who was chasing a small butterfly around. It saw him and ran up to his feet. Mike picked it up and the three continued toward their dorm.


The three opened the door to find a bunk bed on one side, and a small bed on the other. Amanda got dibs on the small bed, and Mike got the bottom bunk. Jeff didn't lie the idea of top bunk, but he had no choice. Electrike instantly bolted into the room. It investigated every nook and cranny before happily sitting down in the middle of the room. Amanda set Ralts on the bed and began to unpack her things. The Pokemon leaped off and waddled toward Seedot. The two Pokemon smiled and began to play.


Jeff threw his stuff onto the top bunk and grabbed Seedot. "You guys hungry? I think I'll pick us up a pizza at that pizza place we saw on the way to the dorms." He asked. Mike nodded and Amanda grinned. He then left the room. "I think he likes Seedot." Mike laughed. "Probably!" Amanda added. Electrike leaped onto Mike's bed and peered into the suitcase. Mike grabbed his Pokeball clock and placed it on the shelf. Electrike yelped and grabbed Mike's hat. It then leapt of the bed and ran around the room. Mike laughed and chased after it. He found it quite hard to keep up with the little Pokemon, and knew he would have the advantage of speed in battle.


Ralts sat in the corner playing with a ball Amanda handed it. The Pokemon was very carefree, and Mike could tell it was the perfect Pokemon for Amanda. He then looked down at his and laughed. Electrike was good too, and he knew they would be best friends. Jeff reentered with the pizza some time later and the 6 of them enjoyed it.


After, they each grabbed some books and stepped out the dorm to head to class. Mike was enrolled in the Pokemon League Preparation Class. After all, he was the one collecting the badges, and he needed to know the basics. Amanda was in the Pokemon Contest Class, as she wanted to compete in contests. As for Jeff, he was in Dark Trainer Strategies. He was so set on getting a dark type as his beginner that he signed up for it without thinking. The three agreed to meet back in the dorm after classes, and they would watch a movie or something.


Mike's class was actually pretty fun. His teacher, Mr. Straglin, was a leading expert in Pokemon battles. They even got to see his star Pokemon, a very powerful Hariyama. The professor explained the basics, and informed the students that each trainer would have to pass a battle test with him at the end of the month in order to pass. They didn't have to win, but they had to show that they learned something.


As for Amanda; her class was a blast too. Her teacher was a middle aged woman named Ms. Applebee. She was a kind woman and an expert in Pokemon Contests. Her star Pokemon was a Roselia, and Amanda would have to have a Contest Battle with it at the end of the month. That was the only thing she didn't look forward too.


Jeff got stuck with Mr. Farken, the meanest teacher in the school. He was assigned a lot of homework on the first day, and dreaded returning the next. He also had to actually beat Mr. Farken's Crawdaunt in order to pass, something he didn't expect to do. The month was going to be tough, but when it was over, each of them would be able to head off into the world as Pokemon trainers!


Next Chapter- A Month Goes By! The Final Test!
Summary of Mike and co's month at Pokemon Tech and each of their final tests!

[RJdude]

Very good. The group got their first Pokemon, and they allsuit their trainers. I liked Jeff's reaction to Seedot, but hopefully it'll evolve soon so he'll get his dark type. You did a good job describing this chapter, and I can't wait for the next one. I also can't wait for when they start their journey.

[Mikey]

Thanks again RJ. Here's the final chapter for today. Tomorrow starts their adventure!

Chapter 3: A Month Goes By! The Final Test!

"Electrike, use quick attack!" Mike shouted. The Pokemon ran full blast at the Machop across the field. "Machop, dodge and use karate chop!" The young student yelled. The Machop dove out of the way, but its speed was no where near Electrike. "Electrike, use spark before it can recover!" Mike followed up. Electrike let out a growl as static bolts generated over it. The hairs on its back stood up and the Pokemon let out a large ball of electricity. Machop turned, but was hit hard by the attack. It stumbled a bit, and then fell back.


"We have our winner!" Mr. Straglin announced. Electrike growled happily, and then leapt into Mike's arms. "Ha-ha! Great job buddy!" Mike laughed. The month was almost over and he had learned so much. Electrike had gotten stronger everyday from all the practice battles Mr. Straglin made them have. He won every match so far. Mr. Straglin called him and Electrike "The Unbeatable Duo!" It was the second to last day of class, and tomorrow was Mike's battle against Mr. Straglin himself. The students returned to their seats as Mr. Straglin began the rules for tomorrow.


"Tomorrow is your exam. As you all know, you will be fighting my Hariyama. Though I don't expect any of you to win, as I have never been defeated, I do expect you to show the skills necessary to become a trainer. It will be a one on one match, no time limit. It will take place outside in the rock battlefield. That's all for today, good luck tomorrow!" With that, the students rushed from the room. Mike recalled Electrike to its Pokeball and headed out the door.


Amanda was waiting outside in the hallway. Her face lit up when she saw him. "How'd it go?" She asked. "Another win for the unbeatable duo!" Mike laughed. "That's awesome!" Amanda replied. "So where's Jeff?" Mike changed the subject. "After class studying; Mr. Farken has been working his butt off. There's like no way Jeff will beat him tomorrow." Amanda answered. "My match should be over before his starts. I hope I can make it in time to watch his." Mike replied.


The two headed into the park for some quiet relaxing
time. Students loved this place and saw it as a way to put all their troubles to rest. They sat under the tree for some time, waiting for Jeff to join them. It was several minutes before he showed. "I hate Mr. Farken with every inch of my body!" He screamed. He then stuck Seedot on the branch above them. It swayed a bit, and then happily stayed.


Across the park a small battle was going on between a boy and a girl student. The girl's Bellsprout put up a tough fight, but it was no match for the other trainer's Numel. The three talked a lot. It was getting late and they knew it was almost time to go. "So what is our game plan for when we graduate?" Amanda asked. "IF we graduate…" Jeff added in. "I say we head out together. Maybe head to Hoenn and start out adventure. It isn't that far." Mike suggested. The other two agreed. The three then stood up and headed off towards the dorm.


Mike was already up when Amanda woke up. He was dressed and ready. He and Electrike were practicing attacks and seemed to be doing quite well. "Sorry I can't watch your battle today Mike." Amanda said tiredly. "No problem, you have your contest to worry about!" Mike replied. Amanda stood up and released Ralts. "Ralts!" It cried out and leapt into her arms. "Ralts and I will do fine." She laughed. Mike gave her a thumbs up then headed out the door. Amanda looked at the top bunk to see Jeff still sleeping. She laughed to herself, and then snuck up to him. With a quick jerk, Jeff found himself on the floor. Amanda laughed hysterically next to him.


Mike made it too the rock field to see Hariyama take
out the Machop from yesterday with a single arm thrust. He knew it was going to be a difficult match. Mr. Straglin motioned to him, and Mike stepped up. "You ready for this Mike?" He grinned. Mike nodded and the two took their sides of the field. Mike threw his Pokeball to reveal Electrike. "Triiike!" It happily growled. "Time to see if this class paid off for you!" Mr. Straglin laughed.


The battle began with a charge from Hariyama. "HARI!" It roared as it blundered toward Electrike. Electrike, use quick attack!" Mike shouted. The Pokemon dodged Hariyama, and then jumped back. It connected with Hariyama's thigh and bounced off. "Hariyama's big bulk won't be outdone by that Mike!" Mr. Straglin commented. He then ordered a mega punch. Hariyama glared at Electrike, and then wound up its arm for the attack. Electrike stood its ground, and then dodged as the hand smashed down where it stood


"Great job Mike! You're really using Electrike's speed to your advantage!" Mr. Straglin commented. Electrike turned to face Hariyama, who had its back to it. "Use spark!" Mike yelled. Electrike nodded and released the ball of electricity. It struck Hariyama hard, sending it back a few feet. "Hariyama, counter with arm thrust!" Mr. Straglin ordered. Hariyama brushed off the attack, and then bounded towards Electrike. Electrike dodged again, but the last arm hit it hard. It sailed threw the air and landed with a hard thud. Mike looked worried, but Electrike slowly got up. "Hariyama, double edge!" The teacher yelled. Sweat was now dripping down his face. He had never been outdone by a student, and this was the closest it had ever come.


Hariyama thundered toward Electrike, who let off a massive spark. It struck Hariyama hard but it kept coming. Hariyama smashed into Electrike and sent it sprawling. It landed hard and this time did not get up. Hariyama then collapsed from the recoil of its own attack. "It was a draw…" Mr. Straglin commented. Mike picked up Electrike and congratulated it. "Nice job buddy…" He whispered. Mr. Straglin approached him. "I have never had a draw with a student." He grinned, and then walked off.


Meanwhile, Amanda was in the middle of her Pokemon Contest. After 4 rounds of showing off attacks in a match against Ms. Applebee's Roselia, she only had 1 round to go. Ralts was raring for more, and Ms. Applebee herself said it shows off its smartness well. Amanda had used calm mind last turn, and from all her studies she knew what to follow up on.


"Ralts, show them how smart you are with confusion!" She screamed. Ralts let off the attack and it blasted into Roselia. "Very good Amanda. That was a nice combo move. Calm mind plus confusion scores you extra points!" Ms. Applebee grinned. The match ended. Amanda hugged her smart little Ralts as Ms. Applebee congratulated her.


Amanda met up with Mike in the hallway. "I did awesome Mike. It was a wonderful event!" She said hugging him. "I wish I could've been there to cheer you on. Mr. Straglin and I tied." He replied. Amanda was impressed. The two continued down the hall to the shadow room. Jeff would be sure to be having his match in there.


They stepped in to find Jeff and Mr. Farken had just started. Seedot rushed in for a tackle, but Crawdaunt just dodged. "If Jeff looses this he fails." Mike said. Amanda nodded. Seedot recovered quickly and dodged a crab hammer from the giant lobster. "Seedot, use leech seed!" Jeff yelled. The little acorn closed its eyes and a little seed appeared on its head. The seed launched itself and connected with Crawdaunt. Vines spread around it and sucked a lot of its energy away. Mr. Farken was starting to sweat.
"Crawdaunt, chop the vines off with vice grip!" He ordered.


The vines were slashed away, but Crawdaunt was now breathing heavily. "Ugh, use crunch Crawdaunt!" The teacher ordered. Crawdaunt lunged for Seedot, but it dodged. "Use leech seed again, then bide!" Jeff remarked. Mike could tell he knew what he was doing. The seed connected again and Crawdaunt struggled to get it off. It then blasted Seedot away with crunch. Seedot then used this time to let off its bide, which smashed into Crawdaunt. Both Pokemon were now exhausted. Suddenly, a towel flew into the ring. Jeff looked up to see Mr. Farken grinning. "I know when my Pokemon can't go on." He whispered. "You pass!"


The next day was graduation, and each trainer was presented with their official trainer cards. Mike saw Matt and his friend Kevin had both passed, and he was sure he would be seeing them throughout his journey. "Now that you head out on your own adventures, remember what you have learned at Pokemon Tech. I hope to see each and every one of you come back here as champions!" The principal yelled. The students all threw their caps and yelled.


Mike, Jeff, Amanda, and their Pokemon all looked out at the long road. "This will take us to Little Root Town." Mike winked at them. Their own Pokemon legend was about to unfold….

Next Chapter- A New Challenge! The Hoenn League
Mike and friends meet Prof. Birch and start their Hoenn adventure.

[RJdude]

Good chapter. he battles could be longer and a little more descibtive, but they were basiclly just practice battles, so that's okay. I have a question: will they get Pokemon from Birch as well, or will they just keep the Pokemon they have?

[Mikey]

It's a surprise, you can find on in the next chapter
Yeah, I shortened the battles in this chapter because I didn't see them as really important ones. Trust me the gym battles will be long and descritive. Thanks for being my only fan so far! LOL

[DannyBoy]

Your story is really cool so far. I like how everyone choose randomly for there pokemon. Electrike is a cool starter for Mike. Amanda seems like a really cool person. Electrike is a really strong pokemon, you show hown good it can be. You have good length and some good description. If you double space after you finish a paragrpah it will help make people read it better. Thats just a thought for you. Keep it up!

[Mikey]

Thanks for the comment. I'll start double spacing on my next chapter which will be avaliable tomorrow. New characters and character development will be in the next episode, and just maybe some new Pokemon!

[Mikey]

Here's Chapter 4

Chapter 4: A New Challenge! The Hoenn League!

Mike and co continued on through the dark forest which separated Pokemon Tech from the lush land of Hoenn. They had been walking for about a day and were getting pretty tired. "Can't we stop and rest for just a second." Jeff moaned. Mike sighed and looked down at Electrike. It didn't seem to mind the hike at all. It still had lots of energy. The Pokemon ran ahead a few feet; turned and happily growled. It waited for the rest to catch up, and then proceeded to do it again.


"Amanda, how close does it say we are?" Mike asked. Amanda stopped and kneeled down to search through her sack. After some time, she pulled a large map from it and spread it across the ground. "Probably a ten minute walk from here." She grinned. "A Whole ten minutes? Dude, let me just die right here and you can drag me the rest of the way!" Jeff growled. Amanda ignored him and packed back up.


Mike didn't mind the hike at all. It was great exercise and the fresh air was wonderful. He took the time to look up in the trees at the few Pidgeys that flew around. "Just wait till I get to Hoenn, then I'll start catching some." He thought to himself. The trees soon began to fade and Mike found himself nearing a beach boardwalk. The trees here consisted of a few palms to the side and a lovely beach. "Here we are, Little Root Town!" Amanda smirked.


The three stared at this beautiful town. Wingull flew above. Their calls echoed and Mike knew this must be a peaceful place. They continued on a few yards where they entered the actual town. It seemed more like a neighborhood; no Pokecenter and only a few stores. They decided to stop for something to eat at a small diner. "Do you guys have any idea how we sign up for this league?" Amanda asked while feeding Ralts. "Bah, didn't think about that." Mike sighed. "There is a professor in this town! He could probably help us." Jeff suggested. "Right, we'll walk up to a complete stranger's lab and demand he help us." Amanda laughed sarcastically.


After lunch, the three continued on. Outside the actual town was more beach with a forest on the other side. They walked for another hour with Jeff complaining the whole way. Suddenly, Electrike began to get jumpy and it raced full speed into the darkness of the forest. "Electrike, come back!" Mike shouted and raced after it. It was very hard to keep up with the tiny sprinting Pokemon, but it became apparent that someone up ahead was calling for help.


Electrike growled as they entered the scene. A over sized man in some khaki shorts and a lab coat was hanging on the branch of a tree. Down below a pack of Poochyena growled fiercely. "Help me!" The man pleaded. "Electrike use spark!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon shot the attack at the relentless pack, which yelped in surprise. They backed away and growled towards the group. "Seedot, use explosion!" Jeff yelled. The little Pokemon grinned happily, and then stared at him confusedly. "Yeah, let's wait till Seedot gets to level 43 to say that." Amanda said laughing. "Ralts, use growl!" Amanda roared. Ralts let out a low and painful moan which caused the pack of Poochyena to yelp and rush off into the forest.


The man leapt from the branch and crashed down hard. Mike helped him up and he thanked them all. "The name is Professor Birch." He grinned. "Wait a minute, you’re the Professor Jeff was talking about? I thought he was just being a moron!" Mike commented. "Ha, nope, I'm real." Birch gave a low laugh. "Those are some great Pokemon you have there. Let me guess; Pokemon Tech graduates?" He asked. "Yep, that's us!" Amanda replied. "Well now, accompany me to my lab heroes and we'll talk further." He grinned.


The three followed Birch through a small trail through the forest. It was obviously made by Birch himself. After awhile, the forest ended and a large building surrounded with palm trees appeared. "This is my lab!" He grinned to himself. "Let's go inside, we have much to discuss." He added. The doors opened and another man looked up. "This is my assistant Joshua." Birch commented. Joshua smiled and continued his work. "Professor, we were wondering how the heck we sign up for the Hoenn League." Jeff commented. "Ha-ha, quite a spirit!" Birch laughed. "Well, you have to sign up in Oldale Town. It's the nearest town; about a day's walk from here." He replied. "The Nurse Joy at the Pokemon Center will help you." He laughed. "Are any of my saviors hungry?" He changed the subject. "Nah, we just ate." Mike replied.


"Well I have to do something for you rescuing me…wait I know!" A grin shot across his face. "Come with me!" He added and turned. The three accompanied him into what looked like a storage room. Three Pokeballs were on the table. "Each of you may pick one." He grinned pulling the first Pokeball from the table. He pressed the small button and it opened up. The Pokemon opened its eyes and smiled. "Treeeeko!" it growled. "DIBS!" Jeff shouted. "It looks like the perfect dark type!" He smiled. Jeff grabbed the Pokemon. "Actually Jeff, Treecko is a grass type." Birch commented. Jeff stared at it for some time. "Looks like you have a keen eye for grass types Jeff. Maybe you should train them!" Amanda laughed. Suddenly Treecko was sailing into her face. "You have that one; I'm getting his dark type!" Jeff screamed.


"Sorry Jeff, you already picked it." Mike said. Jeff sighed and picked Treecko off of Amanda. Treecko and Jeff glared at each other. Treecko obviously liked him, but it had the same personality as Jeff, which means it would be damned if it would admit it. Birch then pulled another Pokeball from the table and released it. "Mudkip!" The cute blue Pokemon grinned. Amanda went starry eyed. "Oh it's so cute. I want it!' She screamed and picked it up. She placed her cheek against its face and rubbed it. Mudkip seemed to enjoy it.

"Well, then that leaves this one for me." Mike said and released the Pokemon. "Torchic!" It smiled happily. "Wow, a fire type!" Mikes grinned and petted it. "Well that's it then." Birch laughed. "Thanks so much!" Everyone replied. Mike released Electrike who sniffed at Torchic. "This is our new buddy!" Mike commented. Electrike growled happily and began to chase Torchic around. The two Pokemon got along fine. Amanda introduced Ralts to Mudkip, and the two Pokemon were inseparable. Jeff tried to have Seedot and Treecko meet, but Seedot was more interested in rolling around. Treecko folded its arms in a distasteful manner.


Outside the lab, Mike and friends thanked Birch for all his help. "It was my pleasure, seeing as how you saved me." He grinned. Suddenly, the forest erupted in a cloud of smoke. Two voices were suddenly heard from the forest.
"Team Magma, Team Aqua, who cares!
We joined together and now we're a pair!
Two people with the same dream; it's really fun!
And that is to steal everyone's Pokemon!"
The two voices ceased and two people appeared from the forest. One was a girl dressed in blue jeans with a black and white stripped shirt and a blue bandana. The other was a guy in the same uniform, only the blue was red. "The name's Bonnie!" She laughed. "And I'm Clyde!" The guy snapped. "Uhh, aren't those thieves from the early 1900's?" Amanda asked. "Does it make a difference?" The two snapped. "We are here for the Pokemon Birch owns. Hand them over!" "Not on your life!" Mike roared. "Then we'll take them by force!" Clyde roared back.


Clyde threw a Pokeball to the ground. When the red disappeared, a Slugma was present. Bonnie threw her Pokeball next and a Wooper appeared. "Double battle!" They said grinning. Jeff and Mike stepped up. "Let us handle this!" They replied. Mike released his new Torchic and Jeff called on Treecko. "Torchic, use scratch!" Mike shouted. The little bird ran at Slugma and scratched hard, but it didn't seem to phase it. "Slugma, use rock throw!" Clyde commanded. "Slug…" The Pokemon roared as rocks were hurled at Torchic. It was struck hard and went flying back. "Torchic return!" Mike shouted." Treecko then rushed in to pound Wooper. "Slugma, use ember!" Clyde shouted. The Pokemon released the ball of fire, striking Treecko and knocking it out.


"You'll never beat us if you can't learn to have your Pokemon work together." Bonnie laughed. "Electrike, show them what you got!" Mike roared. "Ralts go!" Amanda stepped up. The four Pokemon glared at each other. "Wooper water gun now!" Bonnie ordered. The Pokemon shot the water gun straight at Ralts. "Electrike take the hit!" Mike commanded. The Pokemon flew in front and was doused, but it didn't seem hurt. "Now use spark!" Electrike growled and released the ball of electricity. It struck Wooper but did nothing. "Wooper is part ground; you can't hurt it with weak electrical attacks!" Bonnie laughed.


"Slugma, use smog!" Clyde commanded. "Ralts use confusion!" Amanda ordered. The Pokemon lifted its arms to its head and caught Slugma before it could release the attack. "Electrike, use spark while it's stuck!" Mike shouted. The Pokemon sent another ball of electricity at Slugma, frying it. "Now Ralts, send Slugma into Wooper!" Amanda commanded. Ralts did so and the Pokemon flew back into their masters. "Electrike, quick attack!" Mike yelled. Electrike ran full speed. It jolted its own legs with electricity to gain speed and smashed into the two thieves. They were flying sky high before they knew what hit them. "We'll be back!" They screamed and disappeared over the horizon.


Mike thanked Amanda for her help and hugged Electrike. "Looks like we need more experience with our new Pokemon." He added in. Amanda and Jeff agreed. "That was a splendid battle!" Birch announced. The three then waved goodbye to the professor and headed off down the road towards Oldale City…

Next Chapter- The Secrets of Oldale Town!
Mike and friends sign up for the Hoenn League, but also stumble upon some secrets.

[RJdude]

So they do get Pokemon from Birch. Anyway, good chapter. The battle could still be a little better, but it was still good. And that's pretty original, having one member from each team. I wonder what their ultimate goal is.

[Mikey]

Thanks RJ. Yeah, battles with the new "team Rocket" equivalants will never be too long, probably shorter then this one now. As for their goals

Mike- Pokemon Master
Amanda- Pokemon Contest Master
Jeff- Dark Type Trainer Master
As for Team Steam (name for them). Their goal will be revealed in an upcoming chapter

[DannyBoy]

That was a pretty good chapter. It was a little unoriginal with the Birch getting caugh in the tree because of the Poochyena but its ok. It is your first fic. BUt dont follow the anime or the game exactly or it will just get boring as it goes on. You had some ok description. The battle was ok could have went maybe a little longer. But still its just the beginning. Length is really good. Keep it up!

[Mikey]

Chapter 5: An Unexpected Challenge! Off to the Archipelago!

It was a nice and sunny day as Mike, Amanda, and Jeff strolled down the road. Oldale City was now in sight, and everyone's hopes were brought up. "There it is Jeff!" Amanda grinned and the three broke into a run. They reached the outskirts of the town in no time flat. "This is a town?" Mike asked stunned. The place was a little small, with just a few homes, a shop, and of course the Pokemon Center. "Guess so…" Jeff sighed. "Better head to the center. It's getting late." Amanda commented. The three kids walked inside to find it almost empty, except for a teenage kid and a busy Nurse Joy.


"Can I interest you in the new challenge?" Nurse Joy asked the boy. "Nah, Hoenn is where I belong. Island hopping isn't my thing." The boy replied. Nurse Joy sighed and registered the kid. She then noticed Mike and friends standing in the doorway. "Ahh, new registries I presume?" She looks excited, her expression changing when she saw them. "Yeah!" Mike replied. Nurse Joy fished through the shelf next to her and pulled out a broacher. "Can I get you to take a look at this? I don't want to sound like a telemarketer or anything, but we need some registries." She smiled and turned back to the teenage boy.


Mike looked down at the broacher. The words "Hoenn Archipelago" were stamped across it. Nurse Joy finished the boy's registration and turned back to Mike. "I bet you're wondering what that is." She smiled. "Kind of…" Mike admitted. Nurse Joy motioned for her nearby Chansey. It waddled up to her and she whispered in its ear. The Chansey nodded and waddled off. "Though I am not the expert on this place, I am supposed to be offering it to trainers." She began.


"The Hoenn Archipelago is Hoenn's newest challenge. They have been working on it for over 15 years now. Instead of traveling through just out little continent, trainers can choose to head there instead. The Archipelago is similar to the Hoenn gym challenge and such, except there are different gym leaders and types they use. Actually, it’s a whole new version of the Hoenn League. Trainers sail from island to island and collect the 8 new badges there. There are new contest buildings, cities, and everything." She ended.


Mike studied the broacher. It looked a lot nicer traveling through islands instead of a continent full of trees and mountains. "Why did the Hoenn District set this up?" Mike asked. "I believe I can answer that." A broad old man said as he stepped into the lobby. Nurse Joy thanked Chansey and introduced the group to Mr. Alabaster.


"The Hoenn district sought new ways to promote their league; after all, our attendance has been declining over the years. We are happy to say that we are the first league to promote two different paths to take. This will bring back trainers who competed in the league once, and they can earn the eight new badges to participate again. You see, which ever path you take, you'll still end up at the league competition." Mr. Alabaster finished. Mike nodded.


"Why are you promoting this to us though?" Amanda questioned. Mr. Alabaster smiled. "My dear, this league just opened up. Most trainers already started their Hoenn journey so there aren't many that are taking our new challenge. We need beta testers if you will." He replied. "So far we have about 100 kids that have entered. Mr. Alabaster showed Mike and friends a chart with pictures and names of the trainers. Mike took the list and flipped through a few pages to see Matt and Kevin listed. "Why don't we give it a try?" Mike asked. Jeff looked hesitant, but Amanda nodded in agreement. "Traveling the seas beats land any day!" Mr. Alabaster smiled and motioned to Nurse Joy.


Mike and co walked towards her and she registered them for this new league. She then handed Amanda a map. Mr. Alabaster then approached. "As compensation for your beta testing, I present each of you with a Pokenav." He smiled. Amanda was given a pink one, while Mike and Jeff got green ones. "This is Devon Corporation's latest version. It comes complete with all the aspects of the first and more!" He grinned. Mike and friends thanked him. Mike then turned to Amanda. "We'll spend the night here and head towards the harbor first thing tomorrow." He murmured. Amanda nodded.


The teenage boy sat down beside the group. "The name's Justin." He said. Mike introduced himself and his friends. "So you guys are being guinea pigs huh?" He laughed. "There's no way they'd get me to go island hopping. Though I hear the scenery is beautiful there." He seemed interested to make friends. "So you just starting your adventure?" Mike asked. "Yeah, Chikorita and I!" He smiled. Mike grinned. "How bout a practice match? I know it's late but I'm really in the mood." Mike asked. Justin nodded and the two boys headed towards the field outside. Amanda turned to have Jeff follow, but he was fast asleep on the bench. She smiled and headed outside.


"Go Chikorita!" Justin said as the ball landed at his feet. The Pokemon took shape ready to battle. "Go Torchic!" Mike yelled. Torchic took shape and happily jumped up and down. "Chikorita, tackle it!" Jeff yelled. Chikorita rushed in and battered Torchic. It flew back, but was ready for more. "Torchic, use ember!" Mike yelled. The tiny bird opened its mouth and tiny bolts of flames sprayed out. Chikorita dodged for a while, but its leaf soon caught on fire. "Chikorita, twirl your leaf to put it out!" Justin shouted. Chikorita did so, and it looked ready for more. "Now use vine whip!" He yelled. Vines emerged from Chikorita's neck and wrapped around Torchic.


"Torchic, peck the vines!" Mike yelled. Torchic went haywire on the vines, causing Chikorita to let go. "Now scratch it!" Mike commanded. Torchic ran full blast at Chikorita, but it dodged out of the way. "Tackle again!" Justin shouted. Chikorita tackled Torchic and sent it sprawling. Mike thought it was over, but the Pokemon was up seconds later. "Now Torchic, use ember again!" Mike yelled. Torchic released the fireballs towards Chikorita, but a barrier formed in front of it. "Nice reflect Chikorita!" Justin grinned. "Razor Leaf!" Chikorita shots leaves towards Torchic, but Mike had it burn them away. "Torchic, use focus energy!" Mike yelled. Torchic closed its eyes and focused in on Chikorita. "Vine whip!" Justin commanded. The vines shot at Torchic, but it dodged. "Sand attack!" Mike yelled. The sand blinded Chikorita and it shook its head desperately trying to see again. "Now ember!" Mike commanded. The fire hit Chikorita and it went down.


"Chikorita return!" Justin commanded. The Pokemon was enveloped in red and soon disappeared inside the Pokeball. Mike and Justin shook hands. "Great battle!" Mike commented. Suddenly they heard Nurse Joy screaming. The two turned to see Bonnie and Clyde, the two menaces from before rushing from the Pokecenter with many Pokeballs on a cart.
"Team Magma, Team Aqua, who cares!
We joined together and now we're a pair!
Two people with the same dream; it's really fun!
And that is to steal everyone's Pokemon!"
The two shouted as they ran off. "Geeze, how'd they return so quickly?" Mike asked to no one in particular. Justin stepped up. "Team Steam, they're at it again!" He yelled and chased after them. Amanda nodded to Mike and the two followed.


Meanwhile, Jeff had awoken from his nap. "Where the hell is everybody?" He looked around but the Pokecenter was completely empty. With an angry look on his face, he stormed outside and into the woods. Team Steam was running full blast with the cart in hand. They released Slugma and Wooper, who attacked from the cart. Wooper shot a water gun at the ground, making it muddy and slipping Mike, Amanda, and Justin up. The three slid across the ground and their Pokeballs flew onto the dirt. Bonnie left the cart; grabbed them, and headed back. "Come back here!" Mike yelled. Nurse Joy and Mr. Alabaster approached, but they too had no Pokemon.


"We're going to get away!" Bonnie grinned. Suddenly a barrage of razor leaves sailed across, chopping the wheels from the cart. It toppled over spilling Pokeballs and Wooper and Slugma. "Give them back!" Jeff yelled with Seedot and Treecko in front of him. "You ruined our getaway you moron!" Clyde yelled. Jeff ordered Treecko to pound Slugma, and it smashed into the cart. "Ugh, there's plenty of Pokeballs here to use against you!" Clyde remarked and threw one. It opened up to reveal A Magikarp. Nurse Joy laughed a bit. "Today was my annual Magikarp check up day!" She remarked. Clyde grabbed his head and Bonnie sent in Wooper. It used slam on Treecko as Seedot ran by. Seedot kicked the Pokeballs back to the others. "No, our perfect plan ruined by a seed!" Bonnie yelled. Mike released Electrike. Amanda called out Mudkip, and Justin released Chikorita. "Spark, water gun, razor leaf!" They all said together. The attacks struck Team Steam, sending them flying into the sky and disappearing.


"Yeah!" Everyone shouted. Amanda picked up her Mudkip and hugged it. "Great job Electrike!" Mike said petting it. "You have some great Pokemon!" Justin commented. "If it wasn't for Jeff they would've gotten away." Nurse Joy exclaimed. Jeff blushed and said it was nothing. The next day Mike and co waved goodbye to Nurse Joy and Mr. Alabaster as they headed out. The group came to a crossroad. To the right was a large harbor and a big ferry boat which would take them to the Hoenn Archipelago. To the left was the road to Petalburg City, where Justin was heading. "See you at the Hoenn League tournament!" Mike said and he and Justin shook hands. With one final goodbye, the group headed into the harbor.

[RJdude]

Good chapter. It's good that you're senidn them to a different league, pretty original. Plus, the got a new companion. Pretty good.

[DannyBoy]

That was a good chapter. You made it original and that is good! I can't wait to see how this goes. Justin seems like a really cool person. The battle was pretty good. It was better then the others. Keep it up!

[Mikey]

Thanks for the comments guys. The last chapter for today should be up in an hour or so. I'll give you a hint, there's a capture involved. You'll have to wait another hour before it happens though.

[Mikey]

Last Chapter for today! Enjoy!

Chapter 6: Taillow Trouble! Last Plunge for the Ferry!

The group had now entered the large harbor known only as the Wingull Cove Harbor. Mike could tell how they got the name by the many Wingull flying around. "If one of those things craps on me there will be hell to pay!" Jeff yelled as they approached the first building. A sailor was writing down his day's capture on a billboard. "Excuse me mister, but could you tell us when the ferry for the Hoenn Archipelago leaves?" Amanda asked politely. The sailor eyed her, and then a grin formed on his face. "The ferry leaves in a half hour. In fact, that's the vessel I'm boarding as well." He replied. "The name's Greg. Amanda thanked him for the information. "Tell you what, for such a pretty girl, if you meet me back here in fifteen minutes, I'll give you all free passes." Greg added in. Amanda blushed and thanked him again.


"What are we going to for a whole half hour?" Jeff moaned. Mike spied a nearby bench and the three of them sat down. "Why don't you just take in the nice cool sea air?" Mike suggested. Jeff glared at him. "Sea air? It smells like rotting fish guts and Wingull poop to me." He replied. Mike sighed and looked out to sea. There were so many Wingull out there that it looked like a giant cloud covered the harbor. There was one bird in particular that caught Mike's eye. Though it was far away, Mike could tell it wasn't white in color.


The bird seemed to be dipping down toward the water and heading to shore fast. Behind it, a flock of Wingull gave chase. Mike stood up and put his hand over his eyes to block out the glare. The bird was closing it and when it reached the nearest boat it pulled up and shot across the boardwalk. Mike took out his Pokedex to see what it was. "Taillow; the tiny swallow Pokemon- Taillow courageously stands its ground against foes, however strong they may be. The gutsy Pokemon will remain defiant even after a loss. On the other hand, it cries loudly if it becomes hungry." Mike put the dex away and smiled.


"Taillow sounds like an awesome Pokemon." Mike grinned and turned to the others. The Wingulls were now pecking at it furiously, but the tiny Pokemon fought back even though it was greatly outnumbered. Mike watched it fly over the building and disappear into the forest. "I have to catch it; I'll be back before the ferry leaves." Mike murmured and ran off. "Mike, ugh, you're going to miss the boat. Come back!" Amanda yelled. Mike didn't care. The thought of capturing such a cool Pokemon was the only thing in his mind. He stepped out the harbor and straight into the forest.


Meanwhile, behind some bushes, Team Steam watched the scene. "Maybe we aught to catch that Taillow." Bonnie said turning to Clyde. "Good idea!" Clyde replied. "It will be hard with that moron kid around, but who's the more experienced captors here?" He continued. Bonnie laughed and the two headed after Mike into the forest.


Mike walked along the foliage listening for any sign of the fighting Pokemon. The bushes rustled to the side and Mike turned, but only a Rattata emerged. "You're not what I'm looking for." He grinned. "Electrike, come out buddy!" Mike shouted and released his starter. "Electrike, you have a good nose. Why don't you smell out a Taillow for me?" Mike asked. Electrike growled happily and began its search. Mike followed the Pokemon some ways and soon could hear a lot of squawking. The forest opened into an open field where Taillow lie on the ground. The Wingull flock continued to batter it.


"Electrike, use spark…or maybe just a quick attack so you don't hurt Taillow." Mike yelled. Electrike nodded and raced towards the squawking pests. The Wingulls backed away in fright, and then proceeded to peck at Electrike. "Not the best of ideas." Mike grinned to himself. "Electrike, just lead them away from Taillow and give them a good spark." Electrike happily ran with the pursuing birds as if it was a game, and then shocked the crap out of them. The birds cried out and flew off. "Great job pal!" Mike yelled. Electrike smiled and proceeded to run around the field.


Mike walked up to the fallen Pokemon. As soon as it saw him it took to the skies. "I'm not going to hurt you buddy." Mike started to say. Taillow wasn't listening though. It flapped once then dive bombed Mike and began pecking hi fiercely. "Ahh, get it away!" Mike yelled. Electrike yelped and ran toward him. It used spark, but Taillow flew off and the attack only shocked Mike. He collapsed to the ground sizzling. Electrike ran up and began to lick him, but Mike was soon on his feet. Taillow disappeared back into the forest.


Meanwhile, Amanda and Jeff met Greg back at the docks. "Here you go, just as I promised." Greg said handing them three tickets. "How'd you come across these?" Jeff asked. "I work on your transportation vessel!" He said grinning. Amanda thanked him once again. "You guys want to board right now?" He asked. Jeff nodded. "I want out of this stink hole and into a nice cozy bed!" He demanded. Amanda shook her head. "You guys go on ahead. I have to make sure Mike makes it on." She replied. Greg shrugged and he and Jeff headed toward the ferry.


Team Steam was now lost. "We haven't seen that Taillow or the moron in ages." Clyde moaned as they pressed on. "I could use some water. Maybe we should go back to the harbor." He added in. Bonnie glared at him. "You want to give in so fast? We need that Taillow!" She yelped. No sooner did she say that then Taillow appeared. It landed on a branch above them and began to nurse its wing. "Speak of the birdie!" She laughed. "Go Wooper!" The Pokeball opened and Wooper appeared. "Water gun the thing out of the tree!" She demanded. Wooper did as told, but the Taillow just dodged. It then flew down and began to peck Bonnie endlessly. "Ow! Crap! Stop it! Don't just stand there Clyde!" She roared. Clyde nodded and released Slugma.


"Slugma, use ember!" He commanded. Bonnie went numb as she saw the Pokemon open its mouth. "You dumb fu…" Was all she muttered before the fire engulfed her head. Taillow flew back onto the branch and laughed as Bonnie ran back and forth down below. Clyde put his hands behind his head and started panicking. Wooper laughed a bit, and then doused Bonnie with water. She breathed heavily, then walked up and slugged Clyde hard.


Mike suddenly entered the area. Taillow saw him and flew down. It began to peck at him hard again, and Mike swatted at it. "Not you guys…owww…again!" He yelled as the Pokemon continued its fun. "Yes it's us you nitwit!" Bonnie roared. "We want that Taillow, so why wouldn't we come here?" Mike glared at them. "Electrike, get rid of them!" He yelled. "Slugma, Wooper, attack!" Team Steam shouted. "Two against one isn't fair! Go Torchic!" Mike yelled. The little bird Pokemon appeared and began jumping.


"Slugma, smog attack!" Clyde shouted. The forest was soon filled with thick smoke and Mike couldn't see. "Ha-ha, Wooper use water gun on Torchic!" Bonnie replied. Wooper found its way through the fog and nailed Torchic hard. "I can't battle if I can't see!" Mike said to himself. Suddenly, the smog was blown away. Mike looked up to see Taillow using whirlwind. "So you want to help?" He laughed. Taillow let out a cry and swooped down. "Hey if two against one isn't fair, then three against two isn't either!" Clyde yelled out. "I don't play by the rules with you two!" Mike grinned.


"Electrike, take care of them!" Mike called out. Electrike ran at Wooper and quick attacked it hard. Wooper fell back and Bonnie roared in anger. "Slugma, ember!" Clyde yelled. The attack headed straight for Electrike, but Taillow blew it away with whirlwind. It then flew down and wing attacked Slugma away. "Torchic, let's fry our friends before they go, shall we?" Mike grinned. Torchic let out a barrage of fireballs that charred Team Steam. "Enough!" They cried. "They've had enough, do what you want Taillow!" Mike grinned. Taillow nodded and created another large whirlwind, sending the team flying through the woods.

Electrike and Torchic leapt happily and Taillow flew down to peck Mike. "Oww!" Mike yelled. Taillow then flew a few feet away and taunted him. "You want a match, huh?" Mike laughed. "Electrike go!" Electrike ran in. Taillow started by swooping down, but Electrike easily dodged. "Taillow may be fast, but we're faster!" Mike yelled. Electrike nodded and started to run around the area. Taillow watched it as it went, not able to follow for long. "Electrike, use spark!" Mike called out. Electrike stopped and shot the attack at Taillow. It hit hard, but Taillow was not out. It swooped down and wing attacked Electrike while it recharged. Electrike flew back, but came in for more.


Taillow was now tired, and Mike could tell one more spark should do it. "Let's confuse it with our speed again!" Mike yelled. Electrike began to run again, but Taillow swooped down right in front of it. It quick attacked Electrike, causing it to fall back. "Hmm, it knows my strategy. Smart bird." Mike thought to himself. Taillow seemed happy with itself as it flew back up. "Electrike, use howl!" Mike yelled. Electrike let out a piercing growl and Mike knew its attack was now higher. "Make it come in low!" Mike shouted. Electrike nodded and released a spark straight at the Pokemon. It dodged and flew down to counter. "Quick attack!" Mike yelled. Electrike smashed into Taillow and sent it flying. Mike pulled out one of the Pokemon Tech balls and chucked it at Taillow as it fell. "Pokeball go!" He screamed.


The ball hit Taillow and enveloped in red light. Taillow was sucked in, and after some shaking, it stopped. Mike made his first actual capture! He jumped and rushed to pick up his new Pokeball. Electrike ran to him and Mike thanked it. He then released their new friend. Taillow emerged from its ball and started pecking him. He could tell it didn't mean to harm him. It was showing affection, but it still hurt. Mike then remembered that he needed to make it back to the harbor and took off running. Electrike, Torchic, and Taillow followed.


Mike made it to the harbor to see Amanda waiting. The ferry was beginning to pull up its bridge. She saw him but suddenly a cargo truck blocked the path. "Amanda, I can't get by!" Mike yelled. A plastic card flew over the truck and landed at his feet. It was the ticket he needed to board. Amanda ran up the stairs into the ferry. As she did, she motioned next to Mike. He turned to see a ladder that lead to the roof of the building.


Mike climbed the ladder and looked out over the cargo car. It was a long fall. He then got an idea. He released Taillow, who came out in a barrage of pecks. After calming it down, he clutched at its feet and leapt off. The bird held him up just enough to glide safely over the cargo car. He landed and quickly recalled it. He showed his ticket to the employee and boarded the ferry.


"Wow, what a day!" He said as he approached Amanda. "Where's Jeff?" He then asked. "Sleeping of course, didn't think you'd make it!" She replied. "Good thing I had Taillow." Mike replied back. The two then headed toward their room.

[DannyBoy]

That was a good chapter. Taillow seems like it will be a cool pokemon to read about. Mike trained Electrike good. It is really strong for a first pokemon that he has had for a little bit. Good length and description is getting better, keep it up!

[RJdude]

Good chapter. We se more of Team Steam, and Mike gets Tailow. And of course, Jeff sleeps in some more...lol.

[CrystalPinkTorchic]

GoldenNoctowl77- Wow! Your fic, if I might speak my mind, seems to blend the typical cliches of a trainer fic with some very original ideas. For example, it was quite a surprising twist when you placed the concept of the " two different paths " to the Houen League Finals. It was also interesting to hear of the way that you have combined Team Aqua and Team Magma into one. What exactly caused the two teams, fighting against one another, to unite into one? Is it because of some mysterious goal they have that they knew requires the both of them to work together in order to come out on top? Or is it just because they were tired of fighting each other and just decided to unite their teams into one? Whatever the case, this is an excellent fic! It seems to be following the anime formula, but it is still okay!

[Mikey]

Thanks guys! Chapter 7 will be done shortly. This chapter is where we learn why Team Steam was created and what their true intentions are. We also see a battle! It should be done within the hour. Thanks for the comments again!

[Mikey]

Here's the first Chapter of today! Enjoy!

Chapter 8: The Road to the Hoenn Archipelago! Intentions Revealed!

Jeff awoke with a raging headache. It was still dark, but going to sleep at 6 PM would do that to you. He sat up and looked around. Mike and Amanda were fast asleep. The ferry rocked lightly and Jeff remembered how much he hated the sea. "I need some air." He said to himself as he walked towards the door. He stumbled through the hall and stopped at a dining cart stationed at a passenger's door. "What looks good?" He asked himself as he pried off the tops of the containers.


"You there, boy! That is not for you, get away!" A funny looking man with a large mustache said. He grabbed the cart and rolled it away, leaving Jeff drooling. "Humph, nice people here." Jeff yelled as he headed for the stairs. He opened the door and stepped onto the deck. It was a nice night. A light breeze was blowing and the deck was lit up by the moon above. Only a few people strolled on it. Jeff walked to the edge of the ferry and peered over. The eaves rolled down below. Even though Jeff hated the sea, he liked the peacefulness of it all.


"Hello there mate!" Greg said as he appeared beside Jeff. "Hey Greg." Jeff said sarcastically. The man was way to friendly, and all for Amanda. "So what brings you out here at this time of night?" Greg said trying to make conversation. "Nothing, just not tired." Jeff said. He was already bored of the sailor and was waiting for a good time to make his exit. Greg grinned. "Thought you wouldn't, seeing as how you slept as soon as you boarded. If you're bored, we could always battle at the ships battlefield." He grinned. Jeff's interest was suddenly renewed. "A battle would be great!" Greg nodded and escorted him to the bow of the ship.


Team Steam was now following the ship in a small submarine. "It really pays to have an Aqua member with you! You'll never have to worry about sea transportation!" Clyde grinned. Bonnie shot him a look then turned back. "You do realize why we are following these kids, don't you?" She asked. Clyde shook his head. "You haven't let me in on your intentions. You just told me to get my posterior in the sub." Clyde replied. Bonnie sighed. She never knew why she took this assignment, but Archie has been so set on her too.


She started to think back on how it all happened. She was a well educated girl from Mossdeep City with a great love for water. After being shot down for a job at the local Space museum, she then found Team Aqua. She was a grunt for years, until Archie approached her with a proposition. He said that if she accomplished this task he would make her an executive. She instantly agreed, and Archie explained to her what she had to do. "You are to team up with a grunt from Team Magma. Though I do not like this, it would be the only way. For you see, though Maxie and I are arch enemies, we each posses a desire to awaken more then Groudon and Kyogre. There is a Pokemon from space said to lie dormant in the Hoenn Archipelago. Maxie and I have a proposition that whoever battles the Pokemon and win gets it. That is where you come in. You see, the Pokemon can only be awoken by a trainer that possesses both courage and a pure heart. You and the Magma grunt must find this trainer, and slowly lead him/her to the resting place of the Pokemon."


Her flashback ended. She knew she could've done this alone, but Archie and Maxie were both honorable men. They told them to work together as to give each leader a fair chance. She didn't like it, but the grunt she was paired with wasn't too bad. They had the same interests even though he was a blockhead sometimes. As they tracked the Hoenn region looking for trainers, Clyde would tell her stories of his earlier career in a different team; one called Team Rocket. He explained that they stole Pokemon from trainers, and were handsomely rewarded for it. Bonnie was very interested by this, and after some time, stealing Pokemon became an "on the side" hobby for them. She stopped thinking and turned to Clyde. "One of these trainers has to be the one!" She said. Clyde nodded. It sounded far fetched to him, but anything was good if it would make him an executive.


On deck, Greg and Jeff took their sides of the battlefield. "Go Treecko!" Jeff yelled as the ball hit the deck and the gecko appeared. "I choose you Seel!" Greg said as the Pokemon formed. "Nice Seel!" Jeff grinned. "Treecko, use pound!" Jeff yelled. The Pokemon nodded and raced towards Seel. "Seel, dodge and use head butt!" Greg commanded. Seel did as ordered with the grace of a swan. "Forgot to mention, I'm a Pokemon Contest buff. My Pokemon show off as they battle!" He yelled. Jeff sighed. "Wow, well then it shouldn't be too hard to defeat them! Treecko, use absorb!" Jeff yelled. Greg shot Jeff a look, and then ordered Seel to dodge. Treecko stood its ground as a greenish ball flew from it and smacked into Seel. Sell fell down onto the deck wiggling as the ball sucked at its energy. The ball then left it and returned to Treecko, revitalizing it.


"Not to shabby!" Greg yelled. "Seel, use aurora beam!" He yelled. Seel's horn began to sparkle many colors and it shot off the attack. Treecko dodged, but its tail was caught in the attack and it was thrown back some ways. "Did some damage, but not enough!" Jeff smirked. "Treecko, try a quick attack!" Treecko nodded and raced towards Seel. "Seel, use surf!" Greg roared. The Pokemon clapped, then dove off the side of the ferry. "What the hell, you Pokemon just committed suicide!" Jeff yelled. Suddenly, Seel appeared again. Under it was a giant wave. "Guess it's back from the dead!" Greg grinned. The wave splashed onto the deck and slammed into Treecko, sending it sprawling to the ground. "Now Seel, use ice beam!" Greg commanded. The attack slammed into Treecko before it knew what hit it, and it was done.


"Treecko return!" Jeff yelled recalling the Pokemon. "Seedot, get in there!" He yelled as his playful little acorn emerged on deck. It jumped a few times, and then began rolling around. "Ha, this will be easy." Greg said. "Seel, destroy it with an ice beam!" Seel nodded and released the glistening beam of ice towards Seedot. "Seedot, dodge and use razor leaf!" Jeff shouted. Seedot jumped up as the attack hit the ground below it. It then landed and released the barrage of leaves. Seel dodged a few, but was blown back by the last bunch. Seedot jumped happily and began to roll around on the ice.


"Seel return!" Greg shouted. "Go Lotad!" Greg shouted. The Pokemon formed on the deck and made a tiny spout to show off. "Seedot, razor leaf again!" Jeff shouted. The acorn let out the barrage of leaves towards the Lotad. "Lotad, use mist!" Greg shouted. The deck was soon shrouded in a fog and Jeff couldn't tell where Lotad had gone too. "Lotad, use astonish!" Greg shouted. The Pokemon leapt from the fog and battered Seedot, sending it flying. It then retreated back into the fog. "Ugh, I can't attack if I can't see. Seedot, you better use harden." Jeff commanded. Seedot's coat glistened and its defense rose. "Astonish again!" Greg shouted. Lotad leapt from the mist and battered Seedot again. It then retreated in the same manner.


We have to get it out of there!" Jeff shouted. "I know, Seedot use bullet seed!" Seedot jumped happily and a storm of seeds began pouring into the mist. Greg was worried and it paid off, as Lotad raced from the mist, dodging the seeds. "While it's out, use razor leaf!" Jeff commanded. Seedot released the attack and it smashed into Lotad. Lotad fell back unable to battle. "Lotad return!" Greg said. The sun started to appear on the horizon. "Tough match kid!" Greg said to Jeff. Jeff nodded and petted Seedot. "Finally showing affection to your Pokemon Jeff?" Mike said as he stepped out of the shadows. Taillow sat on his shoulder pecking away at his head. "Uh, no!" Jeff said nervously.


The ferry was now pulling into the harbor of the first island in the Hoenn Archipelago. "According to the map, this is Burgundy City, the heart of Akbar Isle." Amanda remarked. "Is there a gym here?" Mike asked. Amanda checked the map. "Yep, and it looks like it’s a ground type trainer." Amanda replied. "Great, we'll head there then!" Mike smiled. His first gym battle was soon to come…

Next Chapter- Chapter 8: Accused of Cheating! Jeff's Special Seedot!
Mike and co are on the way to the gym, but Jeff stops to battle a trainer. When the kid sees his Seedot using razor leaf, he accuses Jeff of cheating. How does Seedot know an attack is shouldn't? Find out in the next episode. PS, there may be a surprise involved!

[DannyBoy]

That was a good chapter. It told why Team Steam is Team Steam now. That battle was ok. Could have went a little longer but its good. Good length and everything. Can't wait to see the next chapter, sounds intresting. Keep it up!

[RJdude]

So Team Steam is after either Jirachi or Deoxys (both are from space)... sounds pretty good. Also, good battle. I like Jeff, he's becoming my favorite character.

[Mikey]

Chapter 8: Accused of Cheating! Jeff's Special Seedot!

The ferry was now docked in the Burgundy City harbor. Greg escorted Mike and friends off and into the busy streets. "So were you three off to?" He asked. "We're heading to the Burgundy City Gym." Mike replied. "O, I'm heading off to Sandstone City on the other side of the island. They are taking registrations for Pokemon Contests." Greg informed them. At this, Amanda leapt up. "Pokemon Contests! Mike, as soon as your gym battle is over, we're heading there!" She screamed while tugging at his arm. "Wow, you're into contests too?" Greg asked. Amanda nodded. "I love Pokemon Contests. It's such a great feeling to train your best friends to look beautiful!" She laughed. Greg nodded.


"Can I see what Pokemon you have?" He grinned. Amanda nodded and released Ralts and Mudkip. "Haven't had time to train Mudkip much. I do brush it everyday though!" She laughed. Mudkip rubbed against Amanda's leg and she picked it up. Ralts looked up at the bulky sailor towering over it. "Ralts is my smarty. It's great at smart contests!" Amanda informed him. "Looks perfect!" He smiled. "Well I have to be going, see you at the contest!" He grinned. Mike and friends thanked him and he headed off.


"Well, should we be off too?" Mike asked. Amanda nodded and picked Ralts up as well. Both Pokemon rested in her arms as she began to cradle them. "Dude, if you baby your Pokemon they'll just become wusses." Jeff muttered. Amanda shot him a dirty look. The three began to walk through the city. It was heavily populated, but there were surprisingly no cars on the road. People transportation consisted of biking and walking. "The gym isn't to far ahead. We just have to pass through Burgundy Park." Amanda informed them looking at the map. Mike nodded.


The three headed into the park. Lots of trainers were relaxing here and Mike could tell it was a hang out. "Hmm, what do you say we take a break and do some training here?" Mike announced. "I could really use it before battling the gym leader." Amanda agreed and Jeff shrugged. "Wouldn't hurt me." He replied. They found a nice shady tree and all sat down under it.


"Taillow, Torchic, Electrike, come on out!" Mike said tossing their Pokeballs. The three Pokemon appeared. Taillow immediately landed on Mike's shoulders and began pecking away at his head. "Ow, Taillow, don't you realize that hurts!" He yelled. Torchic began to run around the field as Electrike tugged at Mike's pant leg. "Seedot, Treecko, come on out!" Jeff yelled. The Pokemon appeared. Treecko sat down next to Jeff, making sure it didn't seem obvious it wanted to be near him. Seedot happily rolled around.


"Ok guys, we're going to practice some techniques. We'll try accuracy first!" Mike announced. He pulled a Frisbee from his backpack. "Taillow, when I throw the Frisbee, I want you to wing attack it." He ordered. Taillow pecked hard at his head and then nodded. Mike tossed the Frisbee into the air and the bird took flight. It swooped low and swung up, knocking the Frisbee down. "Good job buddy!" Mike yelled. "Now bring it back!" Taillow grinned and flew down. It grasped the Frisbee in its talons and flew off across the park. "Taillow, come back here!" Mike yelled as he raced after it. Electrike growled happily and he and Torchic followed.


Amanda sat up. "You guys ready to practice some contest skills?" She asked her Pokemon. They nodded and she turned to Jeff. "Aren't you going to train?" She asked. Jeff lie with his head against the tree and a hat over his face. "Do I have too?" He muttered from under it. Amanda nodded and Jeff took the hat off. "You two, Seedot and Treecko. Fight to the death." He ordered, and then laid back down. Treecko looked at Seedot, who just glared back. Amanda shrugged and walked off.


"Excuse me, but are those your Pokemon?" A girl's voice sounded. Jeff removed the hat to see a young trainer staring at him. "Uh, yes." He muttered. "Wow, they are so cute!" She smiled. "Ugh, doesn't anyone care that I'm trying to sleep!" He muttered to himself. "The name's Laura, fancy a match?" She asked. "Fine, if it'll get you to stop bothering me." He muttered as he stood up. "Yay!" Laura said as she ran to the far end of the field. "Go Marill!" She shouted as the Pokemon formed. "Seedot, I guess you can go out there!" Jeff said yawning. The acorn raced into battle.


Meanwhile, Mike had finally caught up to Taillow. He took some peckings, but the Frisbee was now back in his possession. "Electrike, we're going to work on your quick attack, as electric attacks will do no good against this gym leader." Mike said. Electrike nodded and Mike threw the Frisbee. It growled happily and ran after it, pumping its legs with volts. It leapt into the air and smashed into the Frisbee, sending it sprawling to the ground. "Good job dude!" Mike yelled. Electrike landed next to the Frisbee and started to attack it. "No, Electrike, you're done!' Mike yelled as he pulled the Frisbee away from the snarling Pokemon. "Torchic, you're up!" Mike smiled. Torchic nodded and Mike tossed the Frisbee. It let out a barrage of embers, charring the Frisbee, but also causing Mike to leap out of the way. "Nice aim, but your attacks go wild!" Mike laughed.


Team Steam was now strolling through the park. "So many Pokemon!" Clyde grinned. "Yeah, but the moron's are still the best I've seen." Bonnie replied. She pointed down the park to where Amanda stood training her Pokemon. "There's one of them. Fancy a Ralts and a Mudkip?" She asked. Clyde grinned. "Mudkip, use water gun!" Amanda ordered. Mudkip let loose the fountain of water straight up. You cuteness is splendid!" She yelled. "Now try a mud slap!" Mudkip nodded and switched attacks. It began to happily kick up mud, making Amanda laugh. "You’re the perfect cute contest competitor!" She grinned. "Now Ralts, how's your smartness coming along?" Ralts grinned and waved to her. It was practicing its calm mind/confusion combo and it was going smoothly.


Suddenly, a bag whooshed over it. Amanda turned and saw one snatch up Mudkip as well. "What's this?" She asked. Team Steam leapt from the bushes laughing.
"Team Magma, Team Aqua, who cares!
We joined together and now we're a pair!
Two people with the same dream; it's really fun!
And that is to steal everyone's Pokemon!"
They said grinning. "Ta ta!" The added in and ran away. Amanda gave chase after them.

"Marill, tackle it!" Laura yelled. The Pokemon nodded and raced towards the tiring Seedot. The battle had been going on a while, and Seedot was almost out. "Seedot, roll out of the way!" Jeff yelled. Seedot did so and happily jumped up and down. "Now use razor leaf!" He yelled. Seedot let off the attack, but Laura picked up her Marill. "What is this? How the heck does your Seedot know razor leaf?" She asked in a distasteful manner. "How the heck should I know? I ordered the attack the first day I got it, and it performed it. Why is that bad?" Jeff replied. "You’re a little cheater! Seedots don't learn razor leaf. I don't battle cheaters!" She yelled and stormed off. "Huh? Seedot you nitwit! What's wrong with you?" Jeff yelled. Seedot stared at him then proceeded to roll around.


"Electrike, keep dodging!" Mike yelled. All of his Pokemon were now dodging each other. Each was doing splendidly. "Get back here!" Amanda yelled. Mike turned to see Team Steam carrying two large sacks as his friend angrily chased. "Don't they learn?" Mike sighed and stepped in front of him. "Out of our way kid!" Bonnie roared, but Mike stood his ground. "Go Slugma! Wooper I choose you!" The two yelled. Mike signaled to his Pokemon and they leapt in front of him. "Time for some real practice!" He grinned.


Jeff had now left the park and back into town. Seedot and Treecko followed quaintly behind. "You think there would be a decent amount of video phones around here!" Jeff said sarcastically. The Pokecenter was just up the road. Jeff walked inside. Nurse Joy sat at the front desk. "Nurse Joy, I need your help!" He stated as he walked up to her. "What can I do for you?" She grinned. "It's my Seedot. Some girl I battled said it cheats. I think it has a disease or something." He replied. Nurse Joy looked down to see the smiling Pokemon. "Looks perfectly fine to me." She grinned. "Yeah, but the girl said it can't learn razor leaf, but it does. Is that bad?" Jeff asked. Nurse Joy laughed. "Don't think so. Maybe you're just a good trainer." She said grinning.


Jeff sighed and walked to the video phone. Though he didn't want to, only Mr. Farken could clear this up. The phone rang three times before the teacher picked up. "Jeff? Why how is my star pupil?" He said smiling. Jeff was shocked. Mr. Farken was an idiot, why was he being so nice? "Uh, let me be frank Mr. Farken." He began. "Why the heck does my Seedot know razor leaf?" He added in. Mr. Farken stared at him. "Hmm, yes I remember!" He stammered. "Mr. Leaof, the grass type teacher, was the one who caught it. He was shocked as well by this. It seems your Seedot is one of a kind, the only one of its species that mastered the attack. Mr. Leaof was stunned as well, but he decided to add it to the starters. He wanted to spice it up and give a lucky trainer the Pokemon." Mr. Farken addressed. "Looks like you're him." "So I'm special?" Jeff grinned. The thought of being better then Mike and Amanda crossed his mind. "No! But your Seedot is!" Mr. Farken replied. Jeff fell down anime style. "Well, have to go, got a class!" Mr. Farken said and hung up.


Jeff stood up and stared at Seedot. He then noticed Laura behind him. "I heard what your teacher said. Sorry I was mean earlier, I was just shocked by your Seedot knowing that attack." She said with her head down. "You should be! And to make it up to me I want a rematch!" He said. Laura looked up smiling. "You're on!" She said.


"Taillow wing attack!" Mike muttered. The Pokemon flew down and bashed into Wooper. Slugma, try a yawn!" Clyde roared. Slugma let out a low yawn and soon Taillow fluttered to the ground. A small bubble appeared on its beak and Mike knew it was asleep. "Return!" He shouted. "Ooh, put them all to sleep!" Bonnie said excitedly. "Electrike, use spark!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon let off the attack, but Wooper leapt in the way. "Yawn!" Clyde yelled. Slugma let off the attack again, and Electrike fell asleep in no time flat. "Return!" Mike yelled. Now only Torchic remained. "Torchic, use ember!" Mike yelled. Torchic let off the attack, but Wooper just took it. "Ha-ha, what a weakling!" Bonnie snickered. Suddenly, Torchic let its attack go haywire, causing fire to go everywhere. A speck hit the bag Bonnie held and burned it open, allowing Mudkip to escape. "Yawn!" Clyde yelled. "Mudkip, use water gun!" Amanda yelled. The Pokemon launched the attack and Slugma was smashed into Clyde. He dropped his bag and Amanda untied it. Ralts leapt out and hugged her. "Use confusion!" She yelled. Ralts did so, picking up all the team members. "Say bye!" Mike said to the Pokemon as Ralts launched Team Steam far away.


"Thanks Mike!" Amanda said picking up Ralts. Mike blushed and recalled Torchic. "I got some good training in today!" He replied. "So did I!" Let's go check to see if Jeff's awake yet!" Amanda said. "Seedot, razor leaf!" Jeff said. The special Pokemon released the barrage of leaves at Marill, but it dodged. "Marill, use iron tail!" Laura commanded. Marill wound up its tail and smacked into Seedot. Seedot sprawled across the field and slowly got back up. "Use growth!" Jeff shouted. Seedot nodded and it began to soak in energy. "Marill use bubble!" Laura shouted. Mike and Amanda approached to see Seedot struck with the attack. "Battling again?" Mike commented. Jeff let out a fake laugh.


"Seedot, use nature power!" He commanded. Seedot released the attack, which struck Marill. "Now razor leaf!" It launched the leaves at the immobile Marill, sending it flying. "Marill get up!" Laura yelled. Marill slowly did, but it was getting tired. "Seedot!" The acorn suddenly roared. "What's up with you?" Jeff asked. Seedot's expression changed and it suddenly began to glow! Mike and Amanda starred in shock as the acorn's shape changed into that of a small Pinocchio like figure. "Nuzzzzleaf!" It said in a sturdy manner. "You evolved…" Jeff muttered.

Amanda pulled out her Pokedex. "Nuzleaf; the wily Pokemon. Nuzleaf live in densely overgrown forests. They occasionally venture out of the forest to startle people. This Pokemon dislikes having its long nose pinched." The Pokedex muttered. "You have your first dark type!" Mike grinned. Jeff was completely still. He then leapt high into the air and made a fist. "YESSSS!" He screamed. "In case you're forgetting, we still have a battle to finish." Laura said. Mike could tell she was worried. Jeff landed and returned to the battle. "Nuzleaf, use razor leaf!" He ordered. "Nuzzzz!" The Pokemon roared as it released the barrage of leaves. Ha, now I have a special Nuzleaf!" He said happily. Marill dodged. "Use iron tail!" Laura yelled. The Pokemon wound its tail again and slammed into Nuzleaf. It bounced back, but raced in at Marill. "Nuzleaf, use faint attack!" Jeff yelled. The Pokemon disappeared and reappeared beside Marill. It struck it hard, sending it flying. "Ha, like what I learned in Dark Pokemon Strategies?" he grinned.


Laura recalled Marill. "Wow, you're an awesome trainer." She said. Jeff shook her hand and she apologized for before. "No problem, maybe we can battle again!" He said. She nodded and headed off. Jeff then turned to Nuzleaf. It starred up at him and he leaned down. He placed his palm out and Nuzleaf cocked its head. It then figured out what he wanted and smacked him a high five. "Aww, little Jeffy is showing affection?" Mike laughed. "Hell yeah I am, this is a dark type we're seeing!" He laughed. "Well how about heading to the gym now?" Amanda suggested. "Good idea, you can see me kick butt Jeff." Mike said. Jeff laughed and recalled his new Pokemon. "Let's go buddy!" He laughed. He then ran off down the path as Mike and Amanda chased after.


Next Chapter- Chapter 9: Tough Battle! Mike's First Gym Fight!
Mike fights the Burgundy City Gym Leader for a chance at the Desert Badge!

[DannyBoy]

That was a good chapter. Nuzleaf is a cool pokemon. Razor leaf is a big help for it. Your battles are getting better every chapter and thats really good. THen length is excellent! The gym abttle chapter looks really good. I cant wait to read it. Keep it up!

[Mikey]

Thanks IloveX-Tina! It really means a lot to me that some people are taking the time to read my fics. I promise I will find time to read all of yours. That was the last chapter for today as I was gone with my friends all day and only got to do 2. Look forward to the gym match tomorrow morning!

[RJdude]

Yeah! Seedot evolved! He's my favorite Pokemon on this fic, so I'm glad he evolved first. The battles were also good, and now Jeff has a Dark type. Good job!

[Chris 2.1]

Hey GN, or Mikey as you're know. It's great seeing someone in the Anime Trend starting up a fanfic! let's see now...


Well, the starters are all very well chosen; Electrike is a particular favourite Ru/Sa Pokemon of mine, besides the adorable Kecleon, obviously, but I really must give you two thumbs up for that.


The description is good, but you can always improve. The paragraphing is great, no immediately obvious spelling errors either.


Be careful, however - this is veering into yet another Trainer Fic. I want you to watch out, because you may wind up having the 'eight badges, league, new league, *blank* badges' route that we've all gone down. Make some twists and turns to really make the best of your ability.


That's all, so take care, keep plugging away and, most importantly, enjoy it!

[Mikey]

Thanks for the comments RJ and ShinyMarill.! Sorry guys, but I didn't get a chance to write today. I had a doctor's appointment and have been out with friends all day. I wrote for about 5 minutes, then got a bit of writter's block. I may finish the gym chapter tonight, but if not it will be avaliable tomorrow morning!

[Mikey]

Chapter 9: Tough Battle! Mike's First Gym Fight!

Mike looked up at the large bulky gym from the Pokecenter window. "So that’s the Burgundy City Gym?" He asked. Amanda nodded. The gym was huge. It was shaped like a boulder and the top was fashioned to look like the earth's surface. "Here you are! All checked up and raring to go!" Nurse Joy exclaimed as she brought Mike's Pokemon to him. Taillow flew onto Mike's shoulder and of course began to peck at him. Electrike scurried to his leg and began to tug on it. Torchic just jumped into Mike's lap. "You guys ready to prove how good you are?" He smiled. The Pokemon all let out happy calls.


Mike walked out of the center and into the busy street. People took no notice of him, but he knew they would soon. "After I beat their precious gym leader, they'll treat me like a king!" He grinned to himself. Amanda stepped up next to him. Jeff was still packing inside the center. He looked up to see Mike and Amanda already halfway across the street. "Nice to wait up for me!" He yelled to himself. He then chased after.


The doors opened easily enough and Mike found himself inside a large corridor made completely out of the ground. "Hello?" He yelled stepping in. His call echoed through the chasm. Amanda stepped in behind him. "What a weird gym." She thought to herself. Jeff rushed in seconds later and smashed into her back. "Ow!" She muttered. She pulled away from him and walked in front of Mike. Suddenly, she was falling. Mike and Jeff stood in shock as the ground gave way beneath her and she disappeared into the darkness below.


Team Steam exhausted hauled back into town. Bonnie looked up at the nearby clock tower to see it was already 3 in the afternoon. "Time flies when we're flying!" She yelled to Clyde. "We're the heck could the morons have gone too?" She then asked. Clyde wasn't responding, so she turned around. He was way back practically crawling after her. "Get up you nitwit!" She yelled. Clyde slowly got to his feet. "Bonnie, I'm tired, can't we rest?" He pleaded. "We'll rest later; we have to find the morons first!" Bonnie ordered. "But we could always go to the gym after some rest!" He yelled. "So that's where they went? Let's go!" She replied and ran off down the road. Clyde sighed and dragged himself after her.


"Amanda, are you ok?" Mike called down the hole. "I'm fine!" She replied. "There's cushioning for the first few feet. It seems like someone intended for us to fall!" She added in. "Intended?" Mike shot a look at Jeff. "Geronimo!" He cried out as he leapt down after her. "Ugh, why not?" Mike replied and leapt in. Mike landed on some soft cushioning. Someone definitely designed the floor to break on purpose. He got to his feet but heard Jeff moan. "What's wrong with you?" He asked. "I landed on my head!" Jeff yelled.


Mike laughed then turned to see Amanda by the wall. "Looks like a lantern!" She yelled. "Mike, have Torchic light it and we can see what's down here!" Mike stepped up and released the tiny bird. "Torchic, use ember!" He yelled. Torchic nodded and lit the torch. The room wasn't very big. Lots of cushioning, a few feet of ground, then a door. "Might as well try what's behind door number 1." Mike said and approached it. "Thanks for helping me up guys!" Jeff said as he pulled himself off the cushioning.


Mike pulled the lever and the door spun open. Inside was a large room lighted up by many torches. In the middle of it was a gigantic battlefield with rocks covering it. "I see you have made it!" A voice called out. A woman dressed in explorer like gear was visible. "Which one of you is here for a Gym battle with the leader?" She asked. Mike stepped up. He was still confused with the situation, but this woman posed little threat. "I am!" he replied. "Well then step right up laddie!" She said. Mike approached her.


"The name's Gretta, and I am the Burgundy City Gym Leader!" She said with a warm smile. "I'm Mike." Mike said confidently. "You three seem like beginners, am I right?" She asked. "Yes, from Pokemon Tech!" Mike replied. "Well then techie, how about a three on three match? You have three Pokemon right?" She asked. "Yes and three on three would be fine!" Mike replied. Gretta smiled. Mike could tell she liked company. Her pretty face was well hidden in the dark, but he could make out her beautiful brown eyes and her sandy blonde hair. With a flick of her graceful fingers, a man in a ref's uniform appeared at the side of the battlefield. "Well you going to stand there all day newbie?" She smiled.


Mike turned and headed to his side of the field as Gretta went to hers. Amanda and Jeff stepped up to the sidelines. "Here we go! Isn't this exciting?" Amanda asked. "Not as exciting as my Nuzleaf!" Jeff commented. The ref began to speak. "This will be a 3 on 3 Pokemon battle with no time limit. The trainer may switch Pokemon whenever he chooses, but the Gym Leader may not!" He spoke. "Ready for the biggest match you've had so far? Let's see how you handle the all-mighty earth!" Gretta asked. She then smirked and gracefully threw a Pokeball to the ground.


Bonnie reached the gym ages before Clyde. She waited impatiently as Clyde huffed and puffed toward her. "You are such a weakling!" She roared as he finally made it. Bonnie pulled the door open and stepped inside. It was very dark and she couldn't see a thing. "Clyde, check it out for me!" She yelled tossing him in. Clyde let out a gasp of horror and disappeared. "What the hell?" Bonnie murmured. "What is this place?" She was now frightened, if Clyde could disappear like that she could be next. "I'm all right!" Clyde yelled. Bonnie heard it from below. "There's a door down here!' He called up. "Good!" Bonnie called down and leapt into the darkness.


The Pokeball hit the earth with a thud and opened seconds later. The Phanpy stood there with its broad nose flailing. "Phanpy; the long nose Pokemon. For its nests, Phanpy digs a vertical pit in the ground at the edge of a river. It marks the area around its nest with its trunk to let others know that the area has been claimed." The Pokedex muttered. "A Phanpy huh?" Mike smiled. "Go Torchic!" The Pokeball hit the ground and Torchic appeared. "A fire type? This should be interesting." Gretta responded. "Phanpy use rollout!" She ordered. Phanpy grinned and curled up. It began to roll towards Torchic gaining speed as it went.


"Torchic, dodge and use ember!" Mike yelled. Torchic did so and let off the attack. The tiny blots of fire hit Phanpy but it kept rolling. "You should know fire attacks don't do much to ground Pokemon!" Gretta laughed. "Phanpy use take down!" Phanpy turned its direction and rolled towards Torchic again. "Dodge again!" Mike yelled. Torchic leapt away, but Phanpy diverted its direction so quickly that it didn't have time to react. It was sent flying by the massive power of the rolling Pokemon. "Torchic, are you ok?" Mike asked. Torchic slowly got up. "Use scratch!" Mike yelled. Torchic raced towards Phanpy, but it just rolled away. "Like Torchic is going to catch my Phanpy while it's rolling!" Gretta laughed. "Rollout again!" Phanpy turned around and headed straight back at the tiny bird.


"Torchic jump!" Mike yelled. The little bird did as ordered and landed on Phanpy. It struggled to keep its balance as the Pokemon rolled on. "Peck!" Mike yelled. Torchic chirped and began to peck down. Phanpy rolled on, but soon it slowed. "Now jump away and use scratch!" Mike shouted. Torchic leapt off Phanpy and it crashed into a nearby rock. Torchic then raced in for a scratch. "Phanpy, use rock smash!" Gretta yelled. The Pokemon swung its nose and smashed the rock next to it, spraying it all over Torchic. "Now use take down!" She commanded. Phanpy smashed into the dazed Pokemon and it was sent flying. The ref raised the left flag. "Torchic is unable to battle. Gretta wins round 1." Mike recalled Torchic. "Electrike won't be any good against Phanpy. I have to go with Taillow!" He said to himself.


Mike threw the ball and the swallow appeared. "Hmm, interesting!" Gretta shouted. "Taillow, use quick attack!" Mike shouted. Taillow flew up and sped towards Phanpy. "Roll away!" Gretta ordered. Phanpy dodged and Taillow smashed into the ground, leaving a loop in the dirt. "Taillow follow it!" Mike ordered. Taillow continued its pursuit, but the Phanpy was too fast. "Rollout!" Gretta yelled. Phanpy diverted direction and smashed into Taillow. "How am I supposed to get it out of its roll?" Mike thought. He then noticed the loop hole. "Taillow fly back!" He shouted. Taillow did as ordered and Gretta had Phanpy follow. "Taillow go straight over the loop hole!" Mike shouted. Taillow was already over and before Gretta could react, Phanpy hit it and was sent flying high. It opened from its roll and Mike took this chance.


"Taillow, use wing attack!" He roared. Taillow's wig glowed and it whooshed by Phanpy in a fast streak. Phanpy landed with a thud on the ground. It was out. The ref declared Mike the winner and Gretta recalled Phanpy. "Not bad!" She replied. "Trapinch, go!" She yelled as the big mouthed Pokemon formed. "Taillow take a rest!" Mike said recalling it. "Electrike go!" The Pokemon burst from its ball and immediately began investigating its new surroundings. "Trapinch, use dig!" Gretta yelled. "Piinch!" It squeaked and bit down into the ground. It seconds it was completely submerged. "Electrike, use agility and race around the field!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon nodded and began to run. A small bulge from the ground chased it.


"I won't get anywhere with this. Electrike is too fast for Trapinch." Gretta thought to herself. "Trapinch, surface and use sand storm!" She yelled. Trapinch poked its head out and released a veil of sand over the field. Electrike was struck by it, stopping it in its tracks. "Now use bite!" Gretta commanded. Trapinch dove under the ground and came up under Electrike. It latched onto it and bit down hard. "Spark!" Mike yelled. Electrike let off the attack, but Trapinch continued to bite. Mike was now worried as there was no way to break the Pokemon off. Electrike yelped as it raced across the field. It smashed itself into a rock and Trapinch flew off. "Great job! Now use quick attack!" Mike yelled. Electrike jolted toward Trapinch and smashed into it. Trapinch flew but dove back under the ground.


Trapinch then surfaced on the opposite side of Electrike. "Use faint attack!" Gretta commanded. "Quick attack!" Mike yelled. Trapinch disappeared and reappeared next to Electrike, but Electrike was already moving. It dodged to the side and smashed into Trapinch, taking it out! "Great job!" Mike yelled. Electrike growled happily. 'You did good Trapinch!" Gretta said recalling it. "Go!" She then yelled throwing a Pokeball. The Pokemon took shape and Electrike was now up against a Sandslash.


"Sandslash; the mouse Pokemon. Sandslash's body is covered by tough spikes, which are hardened sections of its hide. Over a year, the old spikes fall out, to be replaced with new spikes that grow from beneath the old ones." Mike's Pokedex muttered. "Ok, be strong Electrike!" Mike yelled. Suddenly the doors swung open to reveal Team Steam.
"Team Magma, Team Aqua, who cares!
We joined together and now we're a pair!
Two people with the same dream; it's really fun!
And that is to steal everyone's Pokemon!"
They said with grins. "Why are you disrupting an official match?" Gretta roared. "Because, stealing Pokemon is what we do!" Bonnie replied. "Sandslash, get rid of them!" Gretta said with no fear whatsoever. Sandslash let loose a powerful swift, and before Team Steam could react, they were flying out of a hole made in the roof of the gym. "What do you say we get this over with?" Gretta asked. Mike smiled.


"Electrike use quick attack!" He commanded. Electrike sped towards Sandslash, but it easily dodged. "You matched in speed this round!" Gretta laughed. Amanda shot a look at Jeff. "You think he can win?" She asked. Jeff nodded, but said nothing. "Sandslash, use swift!" Gretta roared. The Pokemon released the barrage of stars which smashed into Electrike. It slowly got up, but in great pain. "Electrike, quick attack!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon growled and rammed into Sandslash. It flew back, then dug into the earth. "Run!" Mike shouted, but it was too late. Sandslash erupted from the ground, sending Electrike flying and ending this round. Mike recalled it. "Good job buddy! Now it's up to Taillow." He said and released the bird again. "Too bad Mike, maybe next time!" Gretta laughed.


"Sandslash use slash!" She yelled. Sandslash leapt at Taillow, but it flapped away. "Taillow, use quick attack!" Mike yelled. Both Pokemon tried to hit each other, but were each dodging quite efficiently. Suddenly, Sandslash swerved and was able to knock Taillow back. It recovered well, but looked tired. "Taillow, focus energy!" Mike yelled. The bird nodded and closed its eyes. "Sandslash, use slash!" Gretta commanded. The Pokemon sent its claw at Taillow, but it dodged at the last second. Sandslash' claw became embedded into a rock and it struggled to free itself. "Now use wing attack!" Mike yelled. Taillow whooshed by Sandslash, smashing it from the rock and scoring a critical hit. "Now use quick attack!" Mike yelled. The bird smashed into Sandslash and it hit the ground hard. It slowly got up and dove under the ground.


"It can still fight?" Mike was shocked. Sandslash erupted from the ground and smashed into Taillow. It hit the ground hard and Sandslash brought its claw down. Suddenly, there were many Taillows lying on the ground. "Huh?" Mike wondered. "Oh my, your Taillow learned double team!" Gretta said in shock. Sandslash's claw smashed into a fake one and the real Taillow flew up. "Wing attack!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon smashed its wings into Sandslash with all its might and it went down! The ref declared Taillow the winner.


"I did it!" Mike yelled and leapt up. Amanda and Jeff grabbed hands and began to dance. Jeff then realized what he was doing and stopped. Taillow flew onto Mike's shoulder and he thanked it. It smiled, then began pecking away at his head. Gretta recalled her Sandslash and smiled. She walked up to Mike and held out her hand. In it was the Desert Badge, one of the man Mike would be earning. "Take it, you've earned it!" She smiled. Mike thanked her and grabbed the badge. "I got a Desert Badge!" He yelled.


Outside the gym, Mike and friends said their goodbyes to Gretta. "I'm sure you'll go far in the Hoenn League Mike!" She said and headed back inside her gym. She turned one last time. "I've learned a lot today!" She replied, then disappeared inside. "Remember your promise! Time to head to Sandstone City, and my first Pokemon Contest!" Amanda said. Mike nodded and the group headed off.

Next Chapter- Chapter 10: Skitty and Delcatty! Feel the Love!
Mike and friends are passing through a quaint city on the way to Sandstone when Amanda notices a Skitty.

[DannyBoy]

That was a great chapter. The gym battle was excellent. I liked how your character thought of what to do. Good description of it. The length as perfect. Taillow did a great job for its first battle. Keep it up!

[RJdude]

Good chapter. The Gym battle was exciting, long, and well-written. Can't wait for the next chapter.

[Chris 2.1]

Hey, nice battle Mikey, That was a pretty good chapter. it seems Amanda is like May, Mike like Ash...but Jeff can get really funny, 'oh thanks guys, wait for me...' XD

One thing to bear in mind - you're churning multiple chapters a DAY here, aren't you? That last Chapter was 5 pages in Microsoft Word, you can slow down! Write at YOUR PACE, when YOU get the inspiration. I, and everyone else can wait a couple days, even a week for a new Chapter. Heck, One Chappie a week's still considered an awful lot. I post Chapters when I complete them, usually with 4-5 day gaps.

Keep it up!

[Mikey]

I always have the inspiration to write. It's one of my favorite hobbies. Plus, writing this much keeps me in shape for when Honors English rolls along again next year. Many, many essays! *shudders*

Anyways, Chapter 10 may or may not be up tonight
Also, I did base the characters a little off the anime. Except
Mike knows what he's doing unlike Ash and will not be training all cuties.
Amanda knows what she's doing and likes Pokemon.

[Mikey]

Sorry about the wait. I have been a little busy the last couple of days.

Chapter 10: Skitty and Delcatty! Feel the Love!

Mike and friends are just emerging from a quite forest. It's another beautiful, yet HOT day. "I can't feel my body…" Jeff moaned as the three headed on. "There's a small city up ahead. We can stop for something to drink there." Mike replied. The three pressed on into the city. "How far to the nearest diner?" Amanda asked. "Bah, can't be that far." Mike replied. Jeff put his head down and continued to follow them.


"I can't see why an island would be this hot. Don't they get breezes or something?" Amanda added in. As Mike and Amanda pressed on with their conversations, Jeff stumbled a bit of course. He placed his head up and saw them. He jogged back and continued to follow. Amanda and Mike started by an alley, but they stopped. "What's that?" mike asked pointing to a weird three-pronged tail sticking from a trash can in the alley. "I don't know. What is it Jeff?" Amanda replied. The two turned, but Jeff was gone. "Uh, we're missing Jeff." Mike said. They both shrugged and turned back to the tail.


The Pokemon then revealed itself. It came out of the trash can with a fish skeleton in its maw. "Wow, it's a Skitty!" Mike said. Amanda pulled out her Pokedex. "Skitty; the kitten Pokemon. Skitty has the habit of becoming fascinated by moving objects and chasing them around. This Pokemon is known to chase after its own tail and become dizzy." It muttered. The Skitty was very dirty. On its head was a big red bow that seemed to be tarnished. "Looks like it had a previous owner. Wonder why it doesn't anymore." Mike said.


Amanda walked up to it. "With some love and care, I could make Skitty a great contest Pokemon!" She said. The kitten pulled away from her as she approached. Amanda leaned down and set out her hand to pet it. The Skitty hissed and swung its tail, knocking her hand away. "Ow!" Amanda cried out in alarm. Skitty then leapt onto a nearby fire escape and up to the roof of a building. "That thing is decently acrobatic!" Mike said looking up. Amanda got up. "To bad it doesn't like me." She replied. "We better look for our lost comrade. Knowing Jeff he couldn't have gotten far." Mike replied. Amanda nodded and they started off. Skitty watched them go from the top of the building. After they were far enough ahead it made its decent.


Jeff walked for what seemed like hours. "Guys, are you guys not smart enough to find your way to a diner?!" He yelled. The two turned in surprise, and Jeff realized he wasn't following his friends. "I beg your pardon?" The woman said with a nasty look. "Uh, sorry, I thought you were someone else!" He said in shock. The woman turned and the two headed off. Jeff looked around. Mike and Amanda were gone. He was lost; Jeff was lost in the city. "O that is just great!" He screamed at the top of his lungs. He started to walk on, hoping maybe they were not far off. Up ahead a group of kids were gathering around a young woman.


"What goes on here?" Jeff moaned. He shoved some of the kids aside to find a woman with a Pokemon by her side. She seemed to be showing it off. "Delcatty; the prim Pokemon. Delcatty prefers to live an unfettered existence in which it can do as it pleases at its own pace. Because this Pokemon eats and sleeps whenever it decides, its daily routines are completely random." Jeff's Pokedex said as he scanned it. "Wow, a Pokedex. I'd say you're a trainer!" The girl aid grinning. "I swear, if she wants a match I am going to kick her!" Jeff said to himself. He was tired of being asked for matches at times he should be focusing on other things, like sleeping or finding his friends.


"Well then trainer, take a seat and enjoy my pretty friend here!" She smiled. Her grin was warm and Jeff felt himself liking her. She didn't want a battle, and she was asking him to relax and watch her. She was perfect! "I'll sit!" He found himself say. "…as long as you tell me your name." The kids giggled and the girl smiled. "The name is Christina." She smiled. Jeff soaked in the name and sat down. The children smiled and crowded around him. "Well now, as many of you know I am a Pokemon Street Performer!" She exclaimed. "My Delcatty and I will be giving you a wondrous show!"


Mike and Amanda stopped at a nearby diner on their search for Jeff. Amanda gave off a sigh as she sat at the outdoor table sipping an ice tea. "I wish that Skitty was nicer. It's so cute, but a real snot." She remarked. Mike nodded. They both suddenly heard some commotion around the corner. Mike tipped the waiter and the two shot off. "Maybe Jeff is over there. He is usually attracted to large crowds!" Mike laughed. The two rounded the bend to find Christina and her acrobatic Delcatty entertaining the crowd. "Wow! A Delcatty!" Amanda screamed excitedly. She raced into the crowd and bumped into Jeff.


"O, hi Jeff" She said and scooted closer to the front. She then realized who she just passed up and turned around. "Jeff, you nitwit! We've been searching all day and you're watching a Delcatty!" She roared. Mike finally caught up. "Answer me you buffoon!" Amanda replied. Jeff was in a trance. He was too busy watching the beauty up ahead to pay attention to her. "We've lost him!" Mike laughed. Amanda turned to a little girl seated next to her. "Can I borrow your Lapras doll?" She asked. The little girl smiled and handed it to her. Amanda turned back to Jeff and smashed the doll into the side of his head. Jeff flinched, but continued his stare. Amanda smacked him again, and this time he fell back. The kids began to giggle. "Thanks!" She said handing the doll back.


"Seems to be a bit of a situation in my crowd!" Christina said eyeing Amanda. Amanda embarrassedly laughed and stepped up. "I'm sorry; we've just been looking for this idiot all day." She said turning to Jeff. Christina smiled. "Ok kids, that's it for today! See you tomorrow!" With that the kids dispersed. "Well now, looks like you're pretty sought after." Christina said laughing. Jeff shrugged. "Why don't you three come to my house for some lunch?" She then added in. Jeff nodded. "That would be great!" They all exclaimed.


Team Steam was watching from the rooftops. "Well now, a cute performing Delcatty!" Bonnie said excitedly. "I could really use one of those." She added in. Clyde sighed and turned around. There was the rabid Skitty. It glared at him then leapt onto his chest. Clyde screamed and jumped up as the kitten clawed. Bonnie wasn't paying attention. She continued to spy on the Delcatty below as Clyde struggled with the possessed Pokemon in the background. He finally got it off and the kitten ran away. Bonnie turned around. "Clyde, stop fooling around and let's go! Those morons aren't going to lead themselves to the shrine!" She said. Clyde sighed again.


The group sat down in Christina's backyard while happily eating. Everyone released their Pokemon for some much needed relaxation. "I like your Delcatty!" Amanda said. "I saw a cute Skitty when we entered town, but that thing was insane!" She added in. Christina sat up. "Yeah, that poor Pokemon. I've seen it around many times. It lost one Pokemon contest and its trainer left it in the alley." She said sadly. Amanda was shocked at this. "You mean it is abandoned?" She asked. Christina nodded. "And not one person in this town gives it a second glance. They see it as a menace. I really never got the chance to help it out with my schedule." She replied. Electrike ran around the backyard, and then leapt into Mike's lap. "I would never abandon my Pokemon just because of a loss." Mike said petting Electrike.


Skitty peered over the rooftop of the opposite building. It saw the group and eyed the food. It then leapt into the tree in the corner of the backyard. The group continued their conversation. "I wish I could tell that Skitty that I meant no harm and just wanted to pet it." Amanda said. "Geeze, it's just a stray cat! They're everywhere. Why is this one different?" Jeff said. Amanda and Christina glared at him. "Hmm, maybe you were right about the idiot part." Christina said laughing to Amanda. Amanda laughed and looked out to see if her Pokemon were all right. Ralts and Mudkip were playing by the tree. She then noticed Skitty above them. "Speak of the devil!" She said.


Amanda got up and took some food with her. Skitty saw this and went deeper inside the branches. "I won't hurt you! Here, I'll just leave some food at the foot of the tree." She said. Skitty peaked out. It was obviously hungry. Amanda smiled and the Pokemon started down. It made it to the bottom after some reluctance and began to eat. Amanda reached out her hand and stroked its back. It felt cold, and Amanda felt a great deal of pity. Skitty finished its meal and looked up at her. Amanda smiled again and the Pokemon just sat there. "Don't worry!" Amanda said. She put her arms around it and picked it up. Skitty couldn't help but allowing her too.


"Wow, someone's made a friend just like herself! Insane and possessed!" Jeff said laughing. Amanda shot him a look. She then asked Christina if she could fill a bucket with water. Christina nodded to Delcatty and it ran inside. It reappeared a minute later carrying a bucket. It set it down and Amanda knelt beside it. She pulled a cloth from her backpack and dipped it in. She then began to clean the Pokemon. Skitty didn't like water, but the compassion this trainer was showing for it was worth more then getting wet. Skitty was soon clean and feeling happy.


Suddenly, Delcatty was being sucked away. The Pokemon dug its claws into the dirt, but it didn't hold out for long. Everyone turned to see none other then Team Steam with a grappling hook. They reeled the Pokemon in and jumped happily.
"Team Magma, Team Aqua, who cares!
We joined together and now we're a pair!
Two people with the same dream; it's really fun!
And that is to steal everyone's Pokemon!"
They said together. "Give Delcatty back!" Christina yelled. The two laughed and darted out into the street. Jeff was instantly on his feet giving chase with Mike not far behind. "Taillow, fly ahead and cut the hook!" Mike shouted. Taillow nodded and flew off. Clyde saw the incoming Pokemon and released Slugma. "Use flamethrower!" He shouted. The Pokemon released the attack, which smashed into Taillow. "Now smog!" He yelled. Slugma covered the team in a thick smoke. Jeff leapt through the smoke but Mikes topped. "It’s too thick, come back!" Mike yelled.


Jeff emerged from the smog and continued his pursuit. He wasn't about to let Team Steam get away with his beloved's Pokemon. "Go Treecko!" He shouted releasing the Pokemon. "Use pound!" The Pokemon nodded and raced in. "Slugma, flamethrower!" Clyde shouted again. Slugma let off the attack, but Treecko dodged and smashed into it. "Now quick attack!" Jeff replied. Treecko smashed back into Slugma and it was out. Clyde recalled it. Jeff then noticed that Bonnie and Delcatty were both missing. He failed!


Bonnie ran laughing towards the forest. She was almost home free! She felt a little bad for leaving Clyde, but they could always meet back up when the coast was clear. Suddenly, a small kitten and a familiar girl leapt into her only means of escape. "Drop the Pokemon!" Amanda yelled. "Not on your life!" Bonnie replied releasing Wooper. "Use water gun!" She yelled. Wooper let loose the attack, but Skitty dodged. "Um, you want to battle?" Amanda asked it. Skitty nodded and Amanda smiled. "Skitty use tackle!" Amanda roared. The cat raced towards Wooper and smashed into it. "Counter with slam!" Bonnie yelled. Wooper smashed into Skitty a lot harder and sent it flying. "Skitty use attract!" Amanda said. Skitty let loose a barrage of hearts and let off a cute smile. Wooper was instantly in love. "What are you doing you fool, use water gun!" Bonnie yelled. Wooper just stood there with hearts for eyes. "Double slap!" Amanda yelled. Skitty used its tail to smash Wooper repeatedly, then sent it flying into Bonnie.


"Torchic, break the rope with ember!" Mike said as he approached. Torchic let loose the attack and Delcatty was freed. Jeff approached also and Nuzleaf flung Clyde into Bonnie also. "Skitty, tackle!" Amanda shouted. The Pokemon blazed towards the team and smashed into them really hard. They rolled into the lake and washed away. "You did it!" Amanda yelled picking up the kitten. Skitty was so happy with itself and allowed Amanda to hug it tightly.


"Looks like you made a new friend!" Christina said. She walked up to Amanda and held out her hand. In it was a small pink scarf. "Here, take this. The judges in the contest will definitely eye Skitty if its wearing this!" Christina said happily. Amanda was a little reluctant. "Go on, it's the least I could do for you saving Delcatty!" Christina replied. Amanda nodded and grabbed the scarf. She then bent down and removed the dirty old red bow and placed the cute pink scarf on it. Skitty leapt up and down happily.


"You have a new contest Pokemon!" Mike mentioned. Amanda smiled. "You ready to win some contests Skitty. And I promise I won't abandon you like your other trainer if you loose!" She said. Skitty happily purred. The group thanked Christina and Delcatty for their hospitality then began to head off. Jeff didn't want to go so Mike had to drag him away. "Jeff, there will be others." He said smiling. Jeff folded his arms and continued to sulk as they made their way into the forest; Amanda with her new Skitty.

Next Chapter- Chapter 11: Forest of Frights! A Ghoulish Experience!
Mike and friends make their way through a dark forest where a strange Pokemon stalks them.

[DannyBoy]

That was a great chapter. Poor Skitty was abandon because it lost. I hope that trainer dies! Amanda is a much better trainer for it. For some reason I cna picture everything thats going on with your fic because of how the title sounds and I really enjoy reading this. Also Delcatty was in it so you had both pokemon in it and Amanda knows what she will hopefully end up getting when she evolves it. I think thats a great pokemon for contests. Keep it up!

[RJdude]

Good chapter. Now Amanda has another Pokemon for contest... keep it up.

[Mikey]

Bah, this is a long chapter, but I enjoyed writing it. Horror is my favorite type!

Chapter 11: Forest of Frights! A Ghoulish Experience!

Mike and friends have left the comforts of the big city to the long dirt road path. Mike turned to Amanda as they approached a heavily wooded hill. "Sandstone City is just through this forest!" Amanda grinned checking the map. "It looks pretty dark in there." Mike replied. "Did you say dark?" Jeff grinned. "Maybe there's some dark type Pokemon in there!" With that Jeff disappeared into the forest. "Ugh, I didn't want to rush into this. Go into a forest like that and you could find yourself lost forever!" Mike sighed. "Well if it's the quickest way to the contest, I say let's go!" Amanda smirked and rushed after Jeff. Mike called out Electrike. "Let's go buddy! At least I have some company who doesn't run ahead." He said. Electrike happily growled and took off into the forest. "Ugh, some pal you are!" Mike said chasing it.


Jeff was already lost. "Dark types come out of the dark!" He said as he did a 360. The forest was a lot different inside then looking in on it. A Furret ran by his legs and scampered into a hollow log. Amanda, Electrike, and Mike soon caught up. "Great, we're already lost!" Mike muttered. "Calm down. Let's just make camp here for the night and we'll figure it out in the morning." Amanda commented. Mike nodded. "Where's Electrike?" He then asked.


Electrike happily followed the Furret through the woods. It seemed to have run a mile, but it wasn't tired at all. The Furret saw that it was being pursued and scampered away. Electrike lost it and appeared in a small clearing. It looked around, but saw no sign of Mike. Suddenly, something gave off a laugh from the right. Electrike turned, but it was then heard to the left. The forest was filled with laughs and Electrike soon started seeing faint shadows soar by. It backed away slowly and the laughing stopped. Electrike was now frightened, and it started to dart back towards camp. It turned, and saw a skulled face!


Mike was frantically searching the bushes. "Electrike, where are you?" He said as he pushed them away. Suddenly, the familiar squeal of Electrike filled the forest. "Electrike!" Mike screamed. The Pokemon did not respond. "I have to find it!" He nodded and rushed off. Amanda grabbed his arm and pulled him back. "Something is wrong here. We can't have you wandering off!" She said with an emotional voice. "Guys, I think we have some peeping toms!" Jeff said. Amanda and Mike turned to see him frozen with fear. All around them were bright eyes. "What the hell is going on?" Mike said. The frightful laughs filled the forest.


"They don't seem to be making any moves." Amanda said. "They seem to like the dark, so we won't give it to them!" Mike said and released Torchic. "Jeff, grab some branches from that fallen log!" Mike ordered. "Are you insane?" Jeff said with a serious gaze. "Fine, I'll get it!" Mike said and shot a look to Jeff. The eyes fixed their gaze on Mike as he stood up. One eye in particular frightened him. It was unlike the others; larger and red. Mike wished he could make out what they belonged too, but the forest was so dark. He made it to the fallen log. The eyes had not changed their gaze. With a quick thrust, Mike pulled some firewood away and ran back to camp.


The laughing filled the forest. "This is not good! We're going to die here! It's like the fricking twilight zone!" Jeff said over and over. Mike set the wood in the middle of their camp and ignored his muttering. "Torchic, help me out!" Mike motioned. The tiny bird nervously approached and lit the branches. "They won't last for long." Mike said looking at Amanda. "And it doesn't give off enough light to see what they are." She replied. "Whatever they are, they have Electrike, and we aren't leaving until we figure out what they did with it." Mike added in. "I'm out of here at dawn dipstick!" Jeff yelled. "Shut up Jeff, this doesn't concern you!" Mike said sarcastically. "I'm marked for death too, so it concerns me! Quite an adventure we're having. A month of school, one badge, and now we'll disappear in some insane Blair Witch incident!" He replied.


Mike rolled his eyes. "They haven't done anything yet!" He reminded him. "Yeah, cause they are testing us. Maybe they feed off our fear!" Jeff replied. "That's from a Goosebumps book you nitwit!" Mike yelled. "Whatever, let's just get some sleep." He then said. "Sleep, hell no!" Jeff replied. Mike didn't want to sleep either. Electrike was with these things and he had to find a way to get it back. He noticed the big red eye starting to move. The smaller eyes moved away as it changed position. "That big eye has something to do with Electrike. I can feel it!" Mike said not taking his eyes off it. Amanda looked at him. "What do you plan on doing?" She asked. "Stay here!" He said and moved toward the eye.


Bonnie and Clyde were now in a tree. They were also surrounded by the freaky eyes as soon as they entered the forest. "I hope eyes can't climb trees!" Clyde muttered. "Shut up you nitwit! Maybe they didn't see us." Bonnie replied. "Uh, they are looking right at us!" Clyde roared. "They'll be gone by morning!" Bonnie replied. "So will us!" Clyde added in.


Mike had stepped out of the light of the camp and into the forest. The eyes that were by him didn't move at all. They still were very distant, and he couldn't make them out. Suddenly, some bushes moved to his side. Mike turned while gripping Taillow's Pokeball. Suddenly, Torchic leapt out. "Ah, it's only you! Want to help me out?" Mike asked. Torchic leapt into Mike's arms. Mike felt relieved. He then noticed Taillow's Pokeball was gone! He turned to see a pair of eyes laughing as it retreated. "Get back here!' Mike yelled. Torchic let off an ember striking the eyes. They fell to the earth and Mike approached.


Mike approached, but the eyes disappeared into the ground before he could see what they were. "Ok, that freaked me out!" Mike whispered. He grabbed the fallen Pokeball and realized he couldn't see where camp was. The big eye was still near. He could make it out even as it moved farther away. "Why is it avoiding me?" He muttered. He began to follow it.


"Mike's been gone awhile." Amanda said. "You think the eyes got him?" Jeff asked. "I don't know, but the big one is gone!" She replied. Only tiny eyes watched them. The fire began to dwindle. "O great, we have no fire anymore!" Jeff yelled. "Calm down!" Amanda replied. "No! I will not! I have seen to many horror pictures! I know how this turns out. We'll be dead by morning!" Jeff said. He grabbed his knees and began rocking back and forth. "Ugh, I'll be right back!" Amanda said. "NO!!! Never say that! In every horror movie, the person doesn't come back after they say that!" Jeff said. He was going insane. "I will be back. I'm going to look for Mike. Here, take this!" She said. She digged through her backpack and produced a small flashlight. "You'll need it when the fire goes out!" Jeff took it and proceeded to rock. Amanda shot out into the darkness.


Mike followed the eye as it picked up its pace. He knew that it knew he was following it, and it seemed to be leading him somewhere. The eye darted away and disappeared. Mike followed and saw that the forest opened up into a large run down wood house. The door creaked, and Mike knew it was used recently. He looked up. The moon was covered by a thick sheet of clouds. Not the best day to be snooping around abandoned houses. "At least there is only the large eye here!" Mike muttered and pushed the door open.


Jeff was alone. Everyone had abandoned him to a fate worse then death, undesirable fear! He leapt up in shock as his Pokeball opened. Nuzleaf stood there. "You scared the crap out of me!" Jeff said. Nuzleaf looked around. The eyes were watching it as well. "What are you doing out of your ball?" He asked. Nuzleaf put a hand on his shoulder and sat down next to him. "You don't want me to be alone?" Jeff asked. The Pokemon nodded. Jeff let out a little grin.


Amanda had found the house as well. She saw Mike's shoe prints in the muddy soil. "Why would you go in here?" She asked herself. "Mike is going to get himself killed!" She looked around. There were no visible eyes, but she wasn't so sure about inside the house. She opened the door. It creaked loudly. As she made her first step, dust rose from the ground. She made her way inside where an old living room was. There was still a dusty old couch there and an unlit candlestick. Cobwebs littered the room. Amanda saw Mike's shoeprints in the dust. "It looked like he went into the basement." She said to herself. "What a place to go!" She walked down the steps, each creaked as she went. When she made it to the bottom, she saw Mike leaning down to inspect something. Torchic noticed her first. There on the ground was a skeleton!


"Oh my god!" She screamed in horror. She darted back up the stairs with tears of fear in her eyes. Mike raced up after her. He grabbed her and put his arms around her. "Shhh, it's ok. I'm here, I'm here!" Mike said brushing her hair with his hand. "No it's not ok!" She screamed. "There's a body down there! What is going on?" She asked. Mike held up a note. "It was on the floor next to it. Seems like the poor guy was all alone up here. It is dated 10 years ago. All it says is that he is very old and weak, and he some stuff about living life to the fullest. I guess an old lonely man lived here." Mike said. Amanda had calmed down. "Now, Electrike is in here. I can feel it. Can you search the bedrooms for me?" Mike asked. Amanda nodded. His presence made her feel better. Mike gave her one last look and descended down the stairs.


Amanda made her way through the dusty hall. She opened the first door. Inside was what looked like the old man's bedroom. She walked inside. She approached the closet and opened it. Inside was a freaky looking dummy with a key around its neck. Amanda grabbed the key. Suddenly, something came through the mirror behind her. Amanda turned in horror. "Duskull!" The ghost let out laughing. "The eyes, they must belong to these!" Amanda recognized them. "Duskull; the requiem Pokemon. Duskull can pass through any wall no matter how thick it may be. Once this Pokemon chooses a target, it will doggedly pursue the intended victim till the break of dawn!" Her Pokedex muttered. Amanda pulled out a Pokeball as it eyed her. "Mudkip go!" She said releasing it. Mudkip stared at the Duskull. The Duskull let out a large purple ray. Mudkip's eyes became dizzy. "Mudkip!" Amanda screamed. She grabbed the Pokemon and ran out the door. She closed it and breathed a sigh of relief. The Pokemon suddenly came through the wall. She screamed and headed for the stairs.


Mike had found a large room in the basement. He walked in. There was the source of the large red eye. "Dusclops; the beckon Pokemon. Dusclop's body is completely hollow- there is nothing at all inside. It is said that its body is like a black hole. This Pokemon will absorb anything into its body, but nothing will ever come back out." His Pokedex said. Electrike was locked in a cage behind it. "Torchic go!" Mike yelled. Torchic ran in. "Torchic, use ember!" Mike yelled. Torchic let off the attack, but the Pokemon easily dodged. It smashed into Torchic with its fists, blowing it back. "Wow a shadow punch!" Mike said. He moved around the battle to the cage. It was securely locked. Electrike was passed out inside, but still breathing. Mike found another note on the desk next to the cage.

"The ghost Pokemon know that my time is almost up. They grieve for me, and I have realized that they have become bitter and mean as I pass on. Don't blame them, we were all great friends!" It read. Torchic was blown back again. "Torchic, use ember again!" Mike yelled. The Pokemon released the attack, and this time it struck the Dusclops. Mike saw it was a little charred. "Torchic, you must've burnt it!" Mike yelled. The Dusclops tried to attack again, but its burn was paining it. It gave one final look, then disappeared into the floorboards. "Great victory Torchic!" Mike yelled.


Amanda rushed into the room. "What happened?" He asked. Amanda looked back. The Duskull was still on her tail. "That!" She screamed. It came through the door, but was suddenly blown away by a faint attack. Jeff and Nuzleaf stood behind it. "I got bored!" He yelled. Amanda smiled and handed Mike the key she found. It fit into the lock and Mike opened it. He picked up his Pokemon, who woke up. "How you doing buddy?" He asked. Electrike yelped happily. He could tell it wasn't hurt.


The three exited the house. The sun rose above the clouds and Mike saw no sign of the ghosts that had plagued them during the night. They walked a bit of ways, and found that the house was decently close to the other side of the forest. They stepped out onto the road. Jeff bent down and kissed it. Mike turned back to the forest. "Pity how those ghosts turned out…" He said. Amanda put her hand on his shoulder. "They'll accept that man's death someday." She said. Mike nodded and picked up Electrike. "Good to have you back!' He said. The Pokemon happily growled and the three headed off.


Meanwhile, Team Steam were also heading for the other end. "That was hell!" Bonnie muttered. "Yeah, those morons have no idea how easy they have it. We had to spend a night in a tree while they got a nice cozy camp." Clyde replied. They then came upon the rundown house. Maybe there's something to eat or drink in there!" Clyde yelled and the two headed inside…

Next Chapter- Chapter 12: Sandstone City! Amanda's First Contest!
Mike and co make it to Sandstone City where Amanda trains and signs up for her first contest.