Pokemon Fan Fiction / Pokemon Fan Fiction ❯ Betrayal ❯ Betrayal ( Chapter 1 )

[ P - Pre-Teen ]

Disclaimer: I don't own Pokemon in any way. I'm not associated with Nintendo, Pokemon, or Wizards of the Coast. The character Sean is of my own creation.

Betrayal

Wintertime had arrived bringing its cold weather and snow. A thin blanket of snow had already covered the grounds of Pallet Town. Ash was excited to be home, taking a break from his Pokemon training. His friends Misty and Tracey had departed to visit their families for a time, but promised to meet back. Although excited to be home, Ash felt lonely. This was his first time without his friends. Still he had Pikachu, who was riding on top of his head. Ash smiled looking up at his best friend.
This was also his chance to deliver the GS ball that he so badly wanted to know the secret it held. Then he would be back to compete in the Orange League.
"Pika!" Pikachu happily stated smiling.
Ahead Ash could see his mom's Mr. Mime sweeping the snow of the path to his home. Seeing his home, Ash picked up his pace. "Mom, I'm home!" Ash yelled as he stepped into the house.
"I'm so glad you came!" his mother greeted hugging him. "I wouldn't be able to put up with another lonely Christmas."
"That's why I'm here," Ash replied smiling.
"Where are your friends?" his mother asked finally noticing that it was only he and Pikachu.
"They wanted to visit their families too. After Christmas we plan to meet up again and continue our journey."
"Oh, I just can't believe my little boy is growing up," she said tearfully.
"Mom, don't cry."
"I know, I can't help it," she sniffed and smiled. "Any way I invited Professor Oak and Gary over for dinner tonight, to celebrate Christmas."
"Gary's here too?" Ash said a little bitterly.
"Gary's always home for the holidays."
"At least he has the time too," Ash muttered. "I'm going to Professor Oak's lab to visit my Pokemon."
"Be back before dinner!" his mother yelled after him.
"It's been a long time, father," Ash heard as he neared the lab. Professor Oak was standing in a front of a younger man. The young man was dressed in black. He had long brown hair that resumed Gary's spiky hair. Around his neck he wore a necklace much like Gary's. In fact the young man resembled Gary very much.
Ash quickly hid behind a tree not wanting to be noticed, but at the same time wanting to know what was going on.
*****
"Sean?" Professor Oak asked a little surprised.
Sean smiled. "I didn't think I'll ever be able to come home."
"Was your journey full filling?" Professor Oak questioned as he and Sean sat down.
"Somewhat. How's my son?"
"Gary's doing fine. In fact he's home."
"Do you think he remembers me?" Sean asked.
"I would think he would, but he hasn't talked about you for a long time."
"Is Gary training to become a Pokemon master?"
Professor Oak nodded, smiling. "He's doing very good. Would you like to come in?"
"I used to have the same dream too," Sean nodded. "Is Gary inside?"
Snow had begun to fall as they walked inside.
"He's doing some chores right now. He should be in soon. Ash why don't you come in too." Professor Oak said as he peered over where Ash had been hiding. Sheepishly Ash came forward. "Ash, this is my son, Sean, Gary's father."
"You're a Pokemon trainer too?" Sean asked smiling, as he held out his hand. Ash shook it.
"I want to be a Pokemon master," Ash stated with pride.
"I see you have a Pikachu," Sean indicated as he bent down to pet the Pokemon.
"Pika!" the Pokemon happily replied.
"So what brought you back to Pallet Town?" Professor Oak asked once inside after brushing off the pile of snow that covered his shoulders.
"I figured I would visit my mom, during Christmas and also see my Pokemon," Ash replied while he drank some hot cocoa. Next to him Pikachu nibbled on an apple.
"Your Pokemon are doing fine. Although I was hoping you would send me more Pokemon."
"I know," Ash sighed starring into his half-empty mug.
The door opened and Gary stepped in covered in snow at the same time brining in more snow. After closing the door he took off his coat and hat. "Got the chores done, Gramps. Some off the fence by the rocky area needs to be repaired. I tried to fix it up as best as possible. A storm had begun to pick up so I had to leave."
"We'll work on it tomorrow after the storm blows over. I made some hot cocoa, so sit down and join. Ash is also here and some one else who wishes to see you."
For the first time Gary noticed that another person, beside Ash was sitting at the table. "Who are you?" he asked having no idea that he was.
"I told you I would come back. I wasn't hoping it would be this long," Sean replied.
"Father?" Gary hesitantly questioned. Sean nodded, smiling.
"Well, anyway I better go, it's getting late. Thanks for the drink," Ash said as he grabbed his coat. He felt uncomfortable being part of this reunion. "Come on, Pikachu jump in here." Ash opened his coat just enough for Pikachu. Gary was right (as usual) that a snowstorm had started. Luckily he only lived next door. Eagerly Pikachu took the comfort of his coat.
"Ash, can you see if it's alright with your mom if we have another guest?" Professor Oak asked.
"Sure. I'm sure she wouldn't mind," Ash replied before he closed the door.
*****
Once alone Sean grabbed the phone. "I'm at the lab."
"Good. I gather you had no trouble," his boss replied in a low tone.
"The old fool happily took me in. He believed everything I said."
"What about the GS ball?"
"I haven't seen it yet. It's probably in his lab," Sean stated while he made sure no one had entered his room.
"I'll have Butch and Cassidy retrieve the DNA samples soon. Your mission is to get the GS ball."
"Will do."
"I sense some reluctance. Is there a problem?" the boss questioned. In the background Sean could here the soft rumble of the Persian's purr. Sean could picture his boss stroking the cat, which would be in his lap as he sat behind his desk.
"No," Sean quickly answered.
"I'll let you know when Butch and Cassidy are arriving." The phone went dead as the boss hung up.
Sean sighed. He had hoped this would be an easy mission. The situation had grown worse. How could he steal something from his father? Now he was finally with his son, who still didn't trust him. Sean also wanted to be with his son. It had been along time. Maybe he could persuade Gary into joining Team Rocket with him. That was a wild idea.
*****
"This is a nice treat," Jessie commented as she watched from her binoculars way above in a tree near Ash's home. "The little twerp is alone."
"That's nice, but can we get down from here and find a warm place to stay? It's snowing and it's cold!" James complained from a branch below.
"My fur's freezing!" Meowth chimed.
"Oh, quit your whining!" Jessie yelled hitting James in the head with her elbow and slapping Meowth. "This is going to be our only chance! The twerp is alone and none of his friends are around!"
"Only if it were warmer," James chattered.
"If you moved you would be warm!" Jessie angrily replied glaring at her partner. From her binoculars she watched Ash brace against the snowstorm as he walked to his house heading back from the laboratory. In his coat she could see Pikachu peeping out. "Toss the net!" she ordered facing her partners again.
"Let me find it," James replied as he fumbled around in the backpack he had brought. "Oh, my rose. I wonder were that went. This brings back many memories."
Next to him Jessie raised an eyebrow.
"I found it!" James quickly stated.
"Good, now toss it!" Meowth commanded as he shivered.
Clumsily James aimed the net toward Ash and tossed at the same time falling with it. In an effort to hold on, he grabbed Jessie's leg pulling her along while she grabbed Meowth's tail. All three of them tumbled to the ground. Snow from the branches shortly piled on to them.
"Ouch, get off me, Meowth!" Jessie mumbled as she tried to untangle herself from the many arms and legs and the net itself.
"That's my leg!" James whined.
"How could you screw up our only chance?" Jessie yelled slapping both of them once she untangled herself.
"We still have plenty of chances," James hesitantly replied shying away from Jessie.
"None like that one," Jessie growled.
*****
The snowstorm had ended sometime during the night. The next morning the sun sparkled on a thick layer of snow that reached up to Ash's knees making it difficult for him to travel. Gary snickered at Ash's attempts, despite the fact that he was having the same problem. Pikachu avoided the snow and rode on top of Ash's head. He wasn't free of all snow. Snow from branches constantly fell.
"Chu!" Pikachu complained after more snow fell on him. Ash laughed. A snowball soared toward him, unfortunately he didn't duck in time. Gary laughed while he formed a new snowball.
Grinning Ash made one and threw it. Instantly snowballs soared back and forth. Ash laughed as one hit Gary in the face. Gary grinned and threw another hitting Ash in the back of his head.
Ash had planned to deliver the GS ball to Professor Oak, but a more important issue had risen as he quickly formed more snowballs. Quickly as he formed them they vanished. Worn out from the battle Ash collapsed on the snow.
"I win," Gary happily stated.
"What else is new?" Ash mumbled. Then he remembered what he come to do. "Where's Professor Oak?"
"In the lab. Are you planning to turn in your Pokedex?" Gary sneered.
"No. I have to deliver something to him."
"Nothing can be that important if you're delivering it."
Ash threw a snowball, but unfortunately missed causing Gary to laugh. Ash stood up, brushing off the snow. Gary followed, curious to see what this package was. Meanwhile Pikachu had spotted something interesting in the snow.
*****
"Check this out guys!" Meowth called having taken over the binoculars as they floated high above in their hot air balloon. Since the snow had stopped they could now use their balloon.
"What is it Meowth?" James asked moving over to see.
"That!" Meowth replied pointing toward a small figure down below. "It's Pikachu! The twerp is going inside along with the other kid."
"And he's alone!" James said taking the binoculars away from Meowth. "How sweet."
Jessie laughed evilly as she took her turn. "Today is our day in the sun. We will surely be promoted!"
"Oh, Pikachu!" James cooed as they lowered the hot air balloon closer to the electric mouse.
Pikachu looked up after hearing its name.
"Pi!" it angrily, cried once he recognized the person. Pikachu immediately sent more electricity.
Jessie laughed. "We know your ways, Pikachu! Your electricity isn't going to help this time." She gave a sinister smile.
From beneath the basket of their hot air balloon a cage slowly dropped. "This cage is Pikachu proof. No electricity for you!" James taunted.
The cage's bottom opened from beneath. Pikachu ran hoping to out run them. The cage soon swept the Pokemon up. "Pika!" it cried.
The three Team Rocket members laughed as they held up the cage.
"Prepare for trouble."
"And make that double."
"To protect the world from devastation."
"To unite all peoples with in our nation."
"Jessie."
"James."
"Team Rocket blast off at the speed of light."
"Surrender now or prepare to fight. For we have Pikachu!"
"Meowth, that's right!"
"The world is ours!" Jessie happily claimed. "I just wish I could see Cassidy's face!"
"We've proved them all wrong!" James stated.
"Chuuu!" Pikachu cried miserably. "Pikachu!"
*****
"I've been wanting to study this for quit a while," Professor Oak happily stated while he held the GS ball. Gary frowned at Ash.
"How come you didn't have me deliver this to you? I would have gotten it here sooner," Gary stated.
"You had already started your Pokemon journey when I was informed," Professor Oak answered.
"What does it do?" Ash asked.
"I'm not sure that's why Professor Ivy wanted me t have it. No one knows. Speaking of Professor Ivy, I should give her a call."
In an instant he had her lab on screen. Instead of Professor Ivy, Brock was there."
"Why hello, Brock. How's everything?" Professor Oak greeted.
"Things are going along fine, Professor. How about you?"
"I'm fine."
"Hi, Brock!" Ash greeted interrupting them. It had been along time since he had seen his friend. Brock smiled.
"I here you're going to compete in the Orange League," Brock replied.
"Yeah, as soon as I get back. I already have the four badges needed!" Ash replied as he showed them.
"Congratulations! I'll try to be there to see you compete," Brock replied.
"I hate to interrupt this reunion, but I need to speak to Professor Ivy," Professor Oak stated.
"Hold on one minute," Brock said. For a second the screen was blank and then Professor Ivy appeared. Brock waved in the background and then took his Vulpix with him out the room.
*****
"Boss, we finally have him!" Jessie happily claimed.
"We found him alone," James added.
The boss gave a small smile. "At last you two fools finally did something right. A raise will be given. This Pikachu will be our first test."
"What are you going to do with him?" James asked.
"It's of none of your concern. Leave the Pikachu here."
Happily the three of them left. "We're finally going to get our raise!" Jessie stated excitedly.
"What if this is a dream?" James suddenly asked.
"A dream don't be silly, James," Jessie replied.
"James could be right. We never had anything this good happen to us before," Meowth said.
"How do we know if we're awake?" Jessie asked, suddenly worried.
"If we pinch ourselves we'll know," James answered.
"Remember the last time?" Jessie reminded them not to happy with the memory.
"How else will we know?" Meowth said.
"On three we'll each pinch each one," Jessie reluctantly said. "One...two...three."
"Ouch! We're up!" all three of them stated as they rubbed their cheeks.
"Our dreams have finally come true!" Jessie said dreamily.
"Why don't I feel to happy about this one?" James asked.
"Why shouldn't we?" Meowth asked.
"I don't trust what the boss had said," James said.
"Don't be silly, James, we earned this reward! Let's go celebrate!" Jessie replied.
"I don't think it's right, what we did. How would you feel if Arbok was taken?" James continued.
"James, we're Pokemon thieves. We're supposed to take other trainers' Pokemon!" Jessie said growing irritated.
"This one's different. Face it Jessie, we were never meant to be thieves. The only time we ever worked well was when we worked with the twerps," James said.
Jessie sighed. "You're right."
"How are we going to rescue Pikachu?" Meowth said, "With out the boss knowing it was us?"
"Hum...This could be difficult," they replied.
*****
The sun was setting as Sean walked outside. He wondered when the plan would be brought into action. Professor Oak now had the GS ball. It would be a matter of time now. A snowball hit him in the back of the head. Sean turned around thinking that it might have been Gary or Ash. It was Butch. He signaled him to go near the trees.
"Tonight?" Sean questioned.
"Yes, we just need to know where everything is," Cassidy replied.
"That's not a problem. But how are you getting in?"
"With Drowzee," Cassidy stated holding up a Poke Ball.
"What about the brats?" Butch questioned in his scratchy voice.
"I'll handle them. The Ash kid lives next door. I'll handle the other," Sean answered.
"Actually I'll take care of the kid," Cassidy said her eyes narrowing. "The boss said you were a little hesitant about this. He's your son."
"Alright so you found me out. I was going to persuade my son to join us."
"You seriously think he would?" Cassidy laughed. "The old man's more of his father then you are. The brat doesn't even trust you."
Sean glared. "How do you know all of this?"
"We have our sources," Butch stated stepping in front of Cassidy.
"Don't get pushy," Sean said holding up his hands.
"About midnight we'll strike," Cassidy stated.
"I'll be ready."
"You better."
*****
Professor Oak yawned, stretching at the same time. It was getting late. The sun had set awhile ago. The time had quickly flown while he studied the GS ball. He was coming close to unlocking it. Now it was time to put it away. Carefully he picked it up and then walked over to a small safe and placed it inside. Turning off the lights he closed the door.
Quietly Cassidy jumped from the rooftop and landed silently in the snow. Butch followed behind. "The old man's asleep," Cassidy announced peering into the dark windows. Taking a glasscutter from her waist she cut a hole big enough for her hand to fit through, into the glass door. She then reached in with her hand and unlocked the door. Quietly she opened the door for them.
Once Butch was inside she took out a Poke Ball. From the Pokeball a Drowzy came out. "Drowzee, use hypnosis!" Cassidy ordered in a whisper.
"Drowzzzze," the Pokemon replied and began to chant in a hypnotic tone as it waved its arms about.
"This should keep the old man asleep," Cassidy said. "Drowzee well handle anyone who gets in the way. Sean, you're in charge of the GS ball. We'll get the DNA keys."
*****
Quietly Sean stepped in to the lab. To his surprise Gary was in there, his expression bitter.
"Did you forget to tell us that you were apart of Team Rocket?" Gary greeted coldly.
"Gary, I don't want any trouble. Why don't you come with me and together we can start a new life?" Sean replied.
"Why would I want to be with you? My own father is stealing from us. You stepped out of my life when I was young. Now you expect me to happily come back?" Gary laughed. "Maybe when I was younger, not any more. I have my grandfather."
"How did you know about this?"
"I saw you leave. I was hoping I could talk to you, but then I saw you talking with two other people. I hid and that's when I found out the truth. Wait till grandfather hears."
"Gary, please. Just do as I say. Give me the GS ball and you won't be bothered again."
"I'm not going to let you."
*****
Quietly Jessie and James jumped down from the vents into their boss's office. The office was pitch black.
"I'm not too sure about this," James whispered, with a touch of fear. "It doesn't seem right sneaking into the boss's office."
"Well, how else are we going to get Pikachu?" Jessie hissed.
"Pikachu's not going to be in this office," Meowth stated. "It'll be in the lab."
"The lab?" both asked as the looked at each other.
"What's he going to do?" James asked.
"From what I heard the boss is trying to make Pokemon dark. You know evil. He wanted Pikachu to be the first one," Meowth explained.
"But how can you make a Pokemon evil?" Jessie asked.
"Beat's me. I'm just telling you what I heard."
"If Pikachu's not in here, but in the lab, why are we here?" James pointed out.
"The lab's hidden. We can probably find it in the boss's computer," Meowth stated.
"Right," both replied.
"I think these are the floor plans," Jessie said after along search, while James kept an eye out for anyone coming in.
"The lab would be there," Meowth said, pointing to the computer screen.
"That floor doesn't exist," Jessie said.
"It's a hidden room."
"But how are we going to get in it?" James asked from his post.
"I liked it when we were evil," Jessie stated.
"Someone's coming!" James cried in a whisper.
"Quick! Hurry up and shut the computer down!" Meowth cried as he and Jessie scrambled to shut it off. With the help from James Meowth and Jessie climbed back into the vents. Once in they pulled him up, unfortunately forgetting to close the vent back up.
"How are we going to get to the lab from the vents?" James asked a little bit too loud.
"Keep quiet they could hear us!" Meowth hissed.
"We follow this," Jessie whispered as she pulled out a crumbled piece of paper. Meowth shined his small flashlight on to the paper. "I just barely printed this out."
*****
Ash tossed and turned in his sleep. The only thing he could think about was Pikachu. Ever since they went in, he was unable to find his friend. Where could Pikachu be? Pikachu was always with him. He had no reason to leave. After a while Ash finally fell into a restless sleep.
"Prepare for trouble.
And make that double.
To protect the world from devastation.
To unite all peoples with in our nation.
Jessie, James.
Team Rocket blast off at the speed of light.
Surrender now or prepare to fight!"
In the hot air balloon Jessie and James evilly laughed as they held Pikachu above them. Pikachu gave a muffled cry from within the dome they had caged him in. His electricity was useless.
"Pikachu!" the Pokemon cried as it stared helpless at Ash.
"Pikachu!" Ash yelled from below. From his waist he pulled out a Poke Ball. "Alright Bulbasur let's get Pikachu!" he ordered his voice full of determination. From the Poke Ball a plant like dinosaur appeared.
"Bulba!" the Pokemon answered.
"Razor leaf!" Ash ordered.
From the plant on its back a whirlwind of leaves came soaring toward the hot air balloon. The leaves helplessly bounced back.
"Your Pokemon can do nothing to help your Pikachu," Jessie taunted, laughing.
"Bulbasuar return. Charizard, it's up to you now," Ash determinedly stated.
The dragon Pokemon soared up into the air. It then turned and faced Ash and sent forth a fire blast.
"Charizard, I thought we were a team!" Ash stated surprised as he watched the dragon fly around circling the hot air balloon.
"We told you your Pokemon would do no good," James stated.
"Your Pokemon are ours now!" Meowth stated, grinning mischievously.
"Just to be nice, we'll give you Pikachu back," Jessie announced.
Ash watched confused by the entire event. First they wanted to capture Pikachu now they wanted to give Pikachu back. From the hot air balloon Jessie tossed down Pikachu, releasing the Pokemon from its dome container.
Surprised, Ash barely caught Pikachu, at the same time almost falling down. Pikachu didn't seem too happy as Ash hugged his friend. "Pikachu!" he happily cried. The Pokemon looked up at Ash darkly.
"Pikachuuuuuuuuuuu!" Pikachu cried as it unleashed its electricity upon Ash.
"Pikachu, why?" Ash cried with pain and surprise. From the hot air balloon the Team Rocket members laughed.
"And this is only the beginning..." Jessie stated.
Ash quickly sat up. "It was only a dream," he said, although his heart pounded. He looked at his clock and found that it was just about midnight. His bedroom seemed empty as he took in the familiar sights. Ash already knew why. Pikachu was missing. Did the dream mean anything? Was Pikachu in trouble?
*****
"Sean, we have the DNA samples. Quit stalling and grab the GS ball," Cassidy hissed as she barged into the room. She narrowed her eyes. "The boss never did trust you on this mission."
"I'm still part of the team. I'm just dealing with a minor problem at the moment," Sean replied.
"Like I'm going to believe that. You don't have enough back bone," Cassidy bitterly stated. From behind Butch quietly crept into the room. Cassidy spotted him. She would have to make sure that Butch got the GS ball and not Sean.
"What I'm doing is no concern to you," Sean replied.
Butch easily found the safe where the GS ball was place. Using a special card he passed through the codes and unlocked the safe. The GS ball wasn't inside. Butch had seen the professor place it inside.
"The GS ball isn't in there," Sean replied.
"Hand it over, Sean," Butch ordered.
"I don't have it."
"What do you mean? You're the only one who knows."
"Gary, hand over the GS ball," Sean ordered as he returned his attention to his son.
"I don't have it," Gary answered, glaring up at his father.
"You know where it is, since you already knew about this plan."
"You'll have to find it yourself," Gary stated.
"Look, brat, you better hand it over now. We're not afraid to dispose of you," Cassidy threatened as she cornered Gary into a corner.
"You won't," Gary replied, as he hid his fear.
"Leave my son alone," Sean angrily stated and shoved Cassidy out of the way. "No body threatens my son."
Cassidy sneered. "Why do we suddenly have a heart?"
"Alakazam, go!" Sean ordered. From his Poke Ball the Pokemon appeared standing in front of him and Gary. "Team Rocket's going to far. I've had enough of this. Alakazam, use your psychic."
Unable to do anything Cassidy found herself floating in the air. "Drowzee, use hypnosis!" she cried. Alakazam reflected the Pokemon's attack
"Gary, run and get Professor Oak!" Sean ordered.
Butch was a step ahead. Using Drowzee's attack he had the Pokemon focus on Gary. Unable to fight it's hypnotic powers Gary fell asleep. Sean shortly followed behind.
Cassidy soon regained control. "Forget the GS ball. We have the main thing that the boss wants."
"The boss isn't going to happy once he hears what happened," Butch replied.
"With Pikachu and the keys he'll be satisfied. Besides we're not like those bumbling idiots Jessie and James."
"What we should do about Sean? He's a traitor to Team Rocket," Butch stated.
"The boss will deal with him. He's not our concern any more."
*****
"Here's the lab," James announced, "and it's all clear."
Quietly they opened the vent and jumped down. The lab was pitch black.
"Are you sure that this is the right place?" Meowth asked feeling uncomfortable.
"It says so right on the map," James pointed out.
"Pika!" a familiar voice cried.
"I told you this was the right place," James triumphantly replied.
"Quit gloating and let's get Pikachu so we can hurry out of here," Jessie ordered.
A burst of light filled a corner of the lab as Pikachu unleashed its electricity. The electricity did no damage to the cage it was in. Pikachu wasn't the only Pokemon around. There were thousands of Pokemon. All of them were in cages.
"This is where the Pokemon go that we capture?" James asked horrified.
"You mean, if we capture any," Meowth corrected.
Both Jessie and James slapped him.
"Alright, Pikachu, we're here to rescue you," Jessie whispered once she reached the Pokemon. Pikachu glared at her.
"Chu!" it growled.
"Pikachu, we're here to help!" Jessie angrily replied. "If you're going to be that way we can keep you there!"
"Pi?" the Pokemon questioned, now with interest.
"Oh, so now you'll listen."
With a key card Jessie unlocked the cage. Hesitantly Jessie picked the Pokemon up. Slightly disturbed Pikachu let out a small burst of electricity. "Pikachu!" Jessie cried almost dropping the Pokemon. Pikachu quickly stopped.
"Let's get out," Jessie suggested.
*****
Evil laughter filled the room. "You really think that you could go against us?" an all too familiar voice stated. The lights turned on and Giovanni stepped out. Next to him was his Persian. Jessie and James gulped.
"I've been monitoring the three of you for some time. You three seem to have a record of turning in your own members."
"Yet you wouldn't help us when we needed your help, yet you would help the others," Jessie stated.
"Unlike you three they proved worthy. You have done nothing except screw up. Even when I allowed you to take over my gym, you managed to destroy it," Giovanni shot back.
"Well we would have won if Meowth hadn't tampered with the stadium," Jessie muttered.
"It would have worked!" Meowth replied.
"Enough! The three of you had just created a serious a crime, which is going against Team Rocket. Now you'll be punished."
"We're not going to given so easily," Jessie challenged holding out a Poke Ball. "Arbok, go!" From the Poke Ball a giant cobra-like snake appeared. "Poison sting attack!" The Pokemon sprayed out a group of pins that were full of poison toward Giovanni.
Giovanni stood his ground. In front of him appeared a large boulder shaped Pokemon with hands. The Pokemon was a Golem. It's rocky exterior easily reflected Arbok's attack.
"Arbok, take that Pokemon down with your tackle!" Upon her command the Pokemon dived at the Golem, only to knock it's self out while the Golem remained unharmed.
"Weezing, your turn!" James continued. Instead of Weezing a large plant came out and immediately covered his head. "Victreebel, it's not your turn!" he cried in a muffled voice as he struggled to get his head out of the plant. The Pokemon only screamed, ignoring its master.
"Pathetic," Meowth mumbled.
"Since you changed your Pokemon. I think I will too. Golem, return. Persian, go."
"The Persian's mine," Meowth determinedly stated.
"But, Meowth, you won't be able to stand a chance against that monstrous cat," James commented, with concern, now that he had freed his head.
"He has too, this is something that Meowth needs to do," Jessie replied hushing her partner.
"I see now."
"Meowth, slash," he ordered himself. With his claws, Meowth charged at the cat and scratched its face, leaving a set of claw marks across its face. Angry, the Persian growled, glaring at Meowth. Meowth gulped, but held his ground.
"Meowth, Meowth! He's our cat!" Jessie and James cheered now wearing black outfits and waving flags about. "He'll always be our top cat!"
Filled with confidence Meowth attacked again, only to be knocked down by the Persian's paw. The Persian calmly sat down, looking bored. It's tail flicked about.
From Jessie's arms Pikachu glared at the Pokemon.
"Pikachuuuuuuuuuu!" the Pokemon cried as it jumped down next to Meowth. Pikachu shot out a bolt of electricity toward the Persian.
"Pikachu, this is Meowth's battle!" James stated.
"Pi-Pika-Pikachu!" Pikachu replied.
"Pikachu says he's just trying to help since you helped him," Meowth replied.
Half dazed the Persian turned to attack Pikachu. The Pokemon collapsed to the ground.
"Nidoqueen, go!" Giovanni ordered. "Body slam the Pikachu!"
"Weezing, smoke screen!" James quickly ordered. The lab quickly filled with smoke, making it hard to see. Making sure that they had everyone, Jessie and James hurried out of the room.
*****
Slowly Gary woke up to his Sean sitting next to him. The room was pitch black except for a flashlight the Sean was holding. "The GS ball!" Gary suddenly cried, remembering everything that happened.
"They didn't get it," Sean replied in a quiet tone.
"What about the other stuff?"
"Unfortunately, yes."
"Grandfather!" Gary cried, as he stood up.
"He's fine. The only thing they did was make sure he stayed asleep," Sean stated.
"It's all your fault! If you hadn't come here none of this would have happened!" Gary angrily stated.
"I was the one who had stopped them."
"You would have taken the GS ball if I wasn't there," Gary pointed out.
"You're going to keep on fighting, aren't you?" Sean stated in a hurt tone.
"After what you've done?" Gary stated, staring up at his father with hatred. "Why don't you crawl back to Team Rocket and beg them to forgive you? I'll even give you the GS ball so you'll at least have a chance." From his waist along with the rest of his Poke Balls Gary pulled out the GS ball. "Take it."
Sean stood there, too surprised and hurt by his son's comment, much of what Gary had said he deserved. "I'm not going to take it, Gary. I plan on telling your grandfather the truth and then turn myself in."
Surprise filled Gary's face. "You're what?"
"Yes. I admit what I had done. My only regret was not being the father I was supposed to be. I'll go and get your grandfather."
*****
"Is there a problem?" Professor Oak asked as he stepped into the lab before Sean could leave. Through one of the windows Sean could see the sun risen. "Oh my, what happened here?"
"Team Rocket busted in trying to steal your GS ball and some keys. They got the keys, but I have the GS ball," Gary quickly answered as he handed his grandfather the GS ball.
"How come I didn't know?" Professor Oak asked, who was very confused. "I would have heard if someone tried to break in."
"They used a Drowzee," Gary stated.
"Now it makes sense. Did you say keys?" Professor Oak continued. Gary and Sean nodded.
Professor Oak sat down in his chair next to his computer. "I was wondering if anyone was going to attempt that. It would be Team Rocket who would."
"What are you talking about, gramps?" Gary asked.
"The keys are DNA samples of Pokemon. At one point scientists were trying to clone Pokemon, but the process went under a drastic change when the Pokemon they had managed to clone were evil. The Pokemon destroyed the lab, yet one of the scientists had managed to save some of the DNA. He had hoped to figure out what went wrong. The scientist was unable to find the cause, for he had died in a fire at his lab. The DNA samples were left in my possession."
"What happened to the evil Pokemon?" Gary asked.
"I was never told. Now Team Rocket has them. I have no idea what Team Rocket wants them for, but I do know it's for evil purposes."
"Shouldn't we alert the police?" Sean asked, still slightly mystified by Gary's cover up.
"Not until I know for sure. I don't want anyone to panic," Professor Oak replied. "Now that everything's settled why don't we have some breakfast and open our presents."
"Presents?" Gary questioned.
Professor Oak laughed. "It's Christmas morning. Normally you would have been the first one up trying to wake me up."
Gary had forgotten that is was Christmas. Eagerly he rushed to the kitchen.
Silently Ash sat in front of the Christmas tree, not touching any of his presents. "Ash, aren't you going to open them? You would have already had them opened by now," his mom stated with concern.
"Not without Pikachu," Ash replied determined not to cry.
"Oh, Ash. I'm sure Pikachu returned. Maybe he went to explore. Pikachu will be back," his mother replied.
"Pikachu doesn't just disappear. Pikachu is always with me."
The doorbell ringed and Mr. Mime rushed to get the door. "Mime!" it called. Ash's mom shortly followed behind. At the front door were Misty, Brock, and Tracey. In Brock's arms was Pikachu.
"Merry Christmas!" Misty greeted smiling with Togepi in her arms.
"Ash, your friends are here and so is Pikachu!" his mother called.
Hearing the name Pikachu, Ash ran to the front. Pikachu happily jumped out of Brock's arms and into Ash's. "Pikachu!" Ash happily cried as he hugged his friend.
"You wouldn't believe what happened," Tracey stated. "On our way up here Jessie and James trapped us in a net. They then shoved Pikachu into our arms and said merry Christmas. Before we could say anything they had floated away in their hot air balloon."
"Jessie and James?" Ash said puzzled.
"I know. I didn't believe it either," Misty said, "They're the ones who are trying to capture Pikachu."
"I'll never understand those two," Brock stated, "Anyway I brought presents for everyone." From his backpack he pulled out one present after another.
"I thought you guys were visiting your families?" Ash asked as they opened their presents.
"I had to leave before I strangled my sisters," Misty stated, "They never let up with their teasing. Plus I picked up my Horsea, so I'm fine. Besides it wouldn't be Christmas without your friends."
"I talked with Professor Oak on our way up and he offered me a job!" Tracey excitedly stated. "I can't believe my dream came true!"
"That's great!" Ash stated, "At least we'll be able to see each other."
"I'm going to join you guys again," Brock added.
"This is the best Christmas ever!" Ash happily stated while he hugged Pikachu.
*****
"Do you plan to stay here?" Professor Oak asked Sean as they walked outside.
"Just for the day then I plan to some traveling. I have a lot to think about," Sean replied.
Professor Oak nodded, knowing full well what Sean meant. He already knew Sean's secret and about Gary's cover up. He respected their wishes knowing that he had nothing to worry about. "What about Gary," he asked. "Is everything alright between the two of you?"
"I'm still trying to work that out," Sean stated, "Gary already knows that I'm leaving. From what I can tell he accepted the fact. I just hope I can earn his respect and love again."
"In time you will."
Next door Professor Oak could see a heated snowball fight going on between Ash and his friends. Gary was among them.
*****
"Do you think we did the right thing?" James asked as they floated in their hot air balloon.
"I think so," Jessie said.
"But now the boss will always be after us," Meowth pointed out.
"There's a whole world to explore," Jessie pointed out.
"The boss will never find us," James said.
"Plus we'll always have each other," Jessie stated. From behind her backpack she pulled out two presents. "Merry Christmas."
"Merry Christmas," James and Meowth stated also holding presents.
*****
"You let Sean get away with the GS ball?" Giovanni bellowed standing up from his chair.
"But we got the DNA samples!" Cassidy and Butch replied at the same time.
"We lost the GS ball and three members of the team, plus Pikachu! This is what I don't need to hear. Get out!" Giovanni yelled.
"I told you, the boss wouldn't like the news," Butch stated as they left.
"Oh shut up," Cassidy replied.
*****
Giovanni sat back in his chair, still angry at the news he had received. At least they managed to accomplish something. He fell back into the pattern of stroking the Persian who had rejoined him in his lap. With the DNA samples he would be able to begin his plans. The world would fall to his feet with his dark Pokemon. Soon no one would be able to trust a Pokemon.
*****
Silently Tracey stared out the window. The sun was shinning bright. There wasn't a cloud in the sky. The weather was perfect. Tracey was satisfied watching the world by the window. Next door Ash's mom, Delia was working on her garden. She stopped and waved at him. Tracey returned the wave.
Tracey felt restless. He finally managed to achieve his dream and that was to be Professor Oak's assistant. He missed traveling around with his friends, Ash and Misty. Recently Ash had gone back on his Pokemon training and was traveling in Johto to compete in the Johto League. Ash had recently won in the Orange Island competition. Their other friend Brock had gone along with them.
Back in Pallet Town everything seemed to be in order. As he traveled there was something new each time. His friends had often joked of how he invented himself along the journeys, but in time they had become good friends finding they had some in common.
They often talked about their lives and their dreams as they traveled. Often they tried to get him to join in their conversations. Tracey always managed to change the subject. He didn't like to talk much about his life. It was too painful. He found it better not to mention anything.
Now that he was in Pallet Town those memories were coming back. During his journeys as a Pokemon watcher he managed to bury those memories, by keeping busy. Tracey couldn't understand why they were coming back. He didn't know what triggered these memories. Maybe it was because Professor Oak reminded him of his father and how caring Delia was.
Tracey shook his head at the thought. He fingered the orange headband that he constantly wore. Misty often teased him about that. The headband served its purpose. The headband hid the many memories of his past. He often avoided taking it off as much as he can. Underneath it was a scar a reminder of the near death he escaped which his family was unable to.
When he was young Team Rocket had tried to get his parents to join them. His parents were well known scientists noted for their research on Pokemon. They had refused and as punishment were killed. Tracey barely managed to escape their fate. The memories had become vague as the years went by but still they were just as pain full. Tracey dreamed of being a scientist just like his parents. Now that he was working with Professor Oak he knew his dream would come true.
*****
The sun was shinning brightly. Finally the bus pulled to a stop. Aaron climbed down followed by his partner Paul. The bus had taken them to Pallet Town, which was where their next assignment was waiting. Aaron didn't understand what Team Rocket wanted with Pallet Town besides the fact it was the home of Professor Oak a famous Pokemon scientist.
It was through him that they were able to begin cloning Pokemon. Already it was done before, but the experiment had failed when the Pokemon turned around destroying everything including the scientists. No one knew what had happened to that Pokemon. Professor Oak had kept some DNA samples that those scientists had used to create that Pokemon. A few years before Team Rocket had sent some of its members to steal that DNA after finding its locations. At the same time they were supposed to steal the G.S. Ball too, but that was unsuccessful.
The DNA samples were used to create Pokemon, but these weren't any ordinary Pokemon. They were dark Pokemon. These Pokemon were about to bring about a fear among all Pokemon. Soon no one would be able to trust any Pokemon. Which was what Team Rocket wanted.
Aaron didn't understand what brought them back. "Do you have any idea why we are here?" he asked his partner.
"You'll see," Paul stated his face expressionless. Paul vaguely reminded him of their boss Giovanni. The thought sickened him. Aaron didn't approve much of Team Rocket's actions, but he knew that if he turned he would be killed. Betrayal meant death for any Team Rocket member.
"This is where it all begins," Paul stated after a while. In his hand he held a Poke Ball.
"They're going to use the dark Pokemon now?" Aaron said surprised.
Paul nodded out from the Poke Ball came a Dugtrio. "You know what to do."
Immediately the Pokemon dug under ground. Aaron couldn't tell a difference in the Pokemon, but except there was something about its eyes.
"And exactly what is it going to do?"
"Just watch," Paul simply replied, his arms crossed.
The ground began to shake slightly, but soon it became worse. The streets and sidewalk began to crumble and pull apart. People were yelling in panic not understanding what was happening.
"Earthquake!" some one yelled.
Just as it started the trembling stopped leaving the sidewalks and streets upturned. There was minor damage done to the buildings. Office Jenny had already reached the scene. Her expression matched the people around her, one of confusion and fear.
"And earthquake, I don't think it could be," Officer Jenny commented. "Pallet Town has never had an earthquake before."
"Then what could it be?" a bystander asked. Others questioned the same thought.
"I don't know, but I'll find out what it could be," she replied.
Paul sneered. "Oh they'll find out, but they'll never understand why."
Secretly Paul had returned the Pokemon, before any one could guess it was the Dugtrio that had caused the damage.
"I don't think this will work," Aaron said in disbelief. "It'll never bring the fear your expecting."
"It will just give it time."
*****
"And earthquake?" Professor Oak repeated, "It felt like an earthquake, but it don't think its one." Behind him Tracey listened trying to put together what just happened. Their house suffered minor damage but the ground around them looked like a war zone. All the Pokemon seemed to be very disturbed by the event.
"Yes," Officer Jenny stated nodding. "We were wondering if you can examine this and see if it could be a Pokemon."
"That does seem like the likely solution. I'll be over there in a couple of minutes," Professor Oak replied.
"Do you think it could be a Pokemon?" Tracey asked as Professor Oak began to pack up some equipment.
"It could be two things and earthquake or a Pokemon. Its less likely to be an earthquake considering that Pallet Town has never had one before. What we'll have to do is find the Pokemon that's causing this and capture it."
"Why do you think a Pokemon would do such a thing though?" Tracey asked.
"That's a good question. Hopefully we'll be able to find out."
Soon they reached uptown. The whole area had been roped off causing much confusion among the crowd that had gathered. Officer Jenny eagerly permitted Professor Oak and Tracey into the scene. Right away Professor Oak sent to work.
"Where're right about one thing. It's not a natural earthquake. This was indeed done by a Pokemon. Luckily the Pokemon didn't continue the attack or it could have done a lot more damage," Professor Oak finally stated.
"But what kind of Pokemon?" Officer Jenny asked.
"Judging by the tracks and how the ground is upturned, I would have to say it was Dugtrio. There seems to be only one though, luckily for us. Usually they come in numbers."
"Is there a chance that we can capture it?"
"We can, but it's no longer here. The tracks seem to have stopped right about here," the professor explained as he indicated where the Pokemon had seemed to disappear. "My guess is that this Pokemon belongs to a trainer. A trainer who could possibly be having troubles training it."
"Alright everyone there's nothing to see," Officer Jenny announced to the crowd. "You heard what Professor Oak said."
Reluctantly the crowd began to fade away. Some were still fearful. Near by some one was taking pictures of the scene. There were a few flashes toward them. Tracey turned to see who was taking the pictures. Two men were walking around taking pictures. One of them had just taken a picture of them. There was something about them that Tracey didn't trust.
"O.k., Tracey, I think our work is done here," Professor Oak stated.
"Do you really think that this was done because of a poor trainer?" Tracey asked as they headed back to the lab.
"It seems to be, but I'm getting some theories. I've recently received some information that the media wasn't given. The news is rather disturbing. Pokemon have been destroying property, turning on their trainers. Right now its being kept quiet in fear that it would bring panic across the land. That's not what we need right now," Professor Oak explained.
"But Pokemon would never do such a thing unless it has a perfectly good reason," Tracey commented in surprise.
"I know, which is why this is being kept quiet."
Tracey wondered if Ash and his knew that any of this was happening. Were they having troubles too? Or was it just here? Then again, Ash's Pikachu would be one of the first Pokemon to know that something strange was going on. If something bothered Pikachu, Ash would be set on finding out what bothered his companion.
Darkness had finally settled. If there was any moonlight it was blocked by clouds. A thick fog had covered Pallet Town.
*****
"O.k. its time to go on to step two," Paul stated sitting in on a chair at the hotel they were staying in. "Pallet's going to witness more then a little earthquake. The whole town's going to go down."
"Don't you think that's a bit too much?" Aaron asked. "I can understand an earthquake but the entire town?"
"How else do you think this will strike fear in everyone's hearts?" Paul countered narrowing his eyes. "I'm beginning to wonder about you, Aaron."
"You have nothing to worry about. I just don't think its wise to move at such a fast pace at this."
Outside Paul tossed out a couple of Poke Balls. Out of each one was a Dugrtio. "He says they come in numbers. That's what he'll get." Immediately they dived under ground. In the sky a helicopter lowered and a rope ladder hung down. Paul and Aaron climbed up it and into the helicopter. On the side of the helicopter was a big letter R. The operator of the helicopter was also wearing an R on his shirt.
*****
"This is exactly what I thought would happen," Professor Oak stated as he and Tracey rushed to help settle the chaos that had risen in Pallet Town. Building began to fall and the ground was beginning to split in different places.
"Merrill, Scyther, Venonat, go and help!" Tracey ordered tossing out his Poke Balls. All three Pokemon came out and set to work.
"There are Dugtrio every where!" Office Jenny worriedly commented. "How can we stop them all?"
A few of the Dugtrio had begun to use hyper beam to destroy the buildings and the ground around them. Despite Tracey's attempts to battle them with his own Pokemon, the Dugtrio didn't seem to look as if they would ever wear out. They looked as if they would fight to their death. His Pokemon were beginning to wear out. All around Pallet Town was falling apart. People were trying to help others or trying to stop the Dugtrio. The task seemed impossible.
*****
"James, look! This is what the boss wanted with those Pokemon," Jessie commented. The three of them were standing in the crowd clutching to each other in fear.
"How can we stop this?" James asked as he watched wide-eyed as the Pokemon destroyed the town around them.
"And to think that this is what Team Rocket had in mind," Meowth stated.
"I think I like trying to capture Pikachu better," James said.
"We have to stop this, James. We already betrayed Team Rocket once actually more then once. What Team Rocket is doing now is wrong. We can't let them do this," Jessie said.
James looked at Jessie with surprise. He had never thought that Jessie of all people would be saying this. He was usually the one to voice such an opinion. It was he who had persuaded the rest of the team to help the twerps the few times they did.
"Of course, Jessie," James replied.
"But there's only one problem. The Pokemon you guys have can't even beat Pikachu. Do you think they could beat a bunch of raging Dugtrio?" Meowth grimly pointed out.
Jessie and James sighed.
"Hey look isn't that the Orange Island twerp that was friends with the other twerps?" Jessie said pointing over at Tracey's direction.
"It is, but why is that important?" James asked.
"He would be the one who would actually agree with us. Face it, James, no one would believe us since we're part of Team Rocket."
"Not any more, Jessie, did you forget that?" Meowth questioned.
"No, but the others don't know and they wouldn't believe us if we were telling the truth," Jessie replied with a frown.
"Well, Jessie, we don't exactly have an honest past," James said.
"How are we going to stop this?" Meowth asked.
"They're ground type to they have to weak against water. We need to dig further down enough to break into the water and some how to get it up," Jessie said after a while. "Arbok it looks like its up to you! Go and tunnel till you reach water!" she ordered tossing her Poke Ball.
A large purple snake came out and dived into one of the holes that a Dugtrio had left behind. After a while water sprouted from the ground showering every where. "You did a great job, Arbok," Jessie commented as she returned it.
For once their plan worked. All around the Dugtrio began to collapse. "We did it!" Jessie and James happily cried.
*****
"It would figure that it would be you two to be causing all the trouble," Officer Jenny stated as she approached them her arms crossed. Her expression was grim.
"But we didn't do it not this time!" they protested
"How can we tell your telling the truth?" she questioned.
"We're the ones who stopped this!" Jessie protested.
"Yes, you two had tried to break into my lab twice," Professor Oak stated as he and Tracey joined Officer Jenny.
"But that was then. We're not a part of Team Rocket no more!" James said.
"Do you see us wearing our uniforms?" Jessie asked.
"You three are known for your disguises," Tracey pointed out. "You three could just be playing some kind of trick."
"But we've helped you before!"
"Professor Oak, they're right. They did help us before. I believe this time they're telling the truth," Tracey said after a while as he looked into their eyes trying to find something to tell them if they were lying. He couldn't find anything but hope and fear.
"You know them more then I do," Professor Oak finally said. "Officer Jenny, let them go. They only helped us. Plus they may be a key to help us."
Officer Jenny looked at them skeptically. "Are you sure about this? They are part of Team Rocket."
"Were a part of Team Rocket!" Jessie cut in.
"Yes," Professor Oak sternly answered. "You three come with me. You may be able to answer some questions that I haven't been able to answer."
Hesitantly Jessie and James looked at each other. Then they followed the professor. Pallet Town no longer resembled the town it once was. Most of it was in ruins. The three of them looked at it in despair. They couldn't believe that this had happened. They knew that more was to come, but when was the question.
*****
"I told you the twerp would be a help," Jessie whispered.
"What could we know that could help the professor?" James replied nodding to Jessie's reply.
"I'm amazed that he had helped us. Could this be some sort of trap?" Meowth worriedly commented.
"Why would he do such a thing?" Jessie asked.
"No one can be trusted any more," Meowth simply stated.
"Well he can be trusted. Even I trust him," Jessie said.
"Do you think that Professor Oak can stop this though?" James questioned.
Jessie and James sighed, as they looked at worriedly looked at each other.
*****
"Tracey, once we get back to the lab see if you can find out where Ash and his friends are. It's time that they need to know about his. Tell them that they must return to Pallet Town," Professor Oak instructed as they reached the lab.
"Yes, Professor. But what if I can't find them?"
"Then leave a message at every Pokemon Center in Johto for them. I also want Gary to know too. I'm afraid that everyone's going to have to work together on this one."
"One more question, professor. I thought that this was to be kept quiet?" Tracey asked, with concern.
"It is, but I have a feeling that at one point we won't be able to keep it quiet. Some one will be bond to tell the media. Only then will things become chaos."
*****
"Boss, phase one is complete. It won't be long before the world will know of the new dark Pokemon," Paul announced as he and Aaron stood in front of Giovanni's desk. A hand stroked the top of a Persian's head. Giovanni's face could partially be seen among the shadows of the office.
"You've wanted these pictures," Aaron said as he placed some photos onto the desk.
"You're job is complete for now," Giovanni said in an expressionless tone. "You may leave."
Both of them bowed and left. Aaron gave a skeptical look at Paul who only shrugged his face matching that of Giovanni's.
*****
Giovanni reached for the pictures once the two of them left. He quickly shifted through the pile until he came up to one with that of Professor Oak and a young teen. He then turned his attention to the computer before him. After typing a few words Giovanni pulled up the teen's file. He left it there, gazing at it, his face expressionless as his hand constantly stroked the Persian.
****
The waves gently crashed against the shoreline. Rudy smiled as he stared across the ocean. He loved living on the Orange Islands. Ever since he could remember they were his home. Not far in the water is his little sister Mahri was playing the water with her Pokemon Seel. Something was missing. He could hear her laughing. Her laughter and innocent smile always brought a smile to his lips.
It could never get rid of the dull ache in his heart or the haunted look in his eyes, which he carefully hid with his smile and helpful manner. He remembered the day his parents had died; Mahri was too young to remember. Since their death he was placed in charge of Mahri, which he took seriously.
Reluctantly he gave up his childhood to take on the bigger responsibilities of raising Mahri, for they had no one but each other. It didn't stop him from his role as gym leader of the Trevolta Gym. On Trevolta Island he was well respected. People looked to him for advice.
More then anything Rudy wanted to find some one special to share his life with. He always seemed to win a young woman's heart but not for long. They always seemed to come and go. Rudy knew how much his sister wanted a big sister. It was hard for her being the only girl in the group. For all the other trainers in the gym were guys.
Once he thought he finally found someone. Her name was Misty and she had saved Mahri from being swiped away in the ocean. Yet her heart was set for a young trainer named Ash who had won against him in gym battle. It was because of Misty that the trainer had won, for Rudy knew that he would have won for sure. Reluctantly he let her go as he watched Misty and her friends ride off into the sunset.
"Rudy!" one of the trainers yelled as he came running toward him. Quickly Rudy stood up and hurried over. The trainer was named Mark, who seemed very upset.
"What's wrong, Mark?" Rudy asked.
"The gym, some one broke into the gym," Mark replied as he tried to catch his breath. "Officer Jenny is already there taking the reports from the other trainers."
"Did they take anything?" Rudy asked full of concern.
"Nothing which was strange," Mark answered.
"Mahri, we need to go to the gym. We have an emergency," Rudy yelled in his sister's direction. As Mark ran off, Rudy waited till his sister reached him and grabbing her hand hurried off.
Rudy's face faulted once he saw the gym. He couldn't believe what he was saying. The windows were broken and there was no door anymore. Inside the gym it was worse. What Rudy couldn't understand was why they broke into the gym but didn't steal anything.
"Rudy, what happened?" Mahri asked wide-eyed.
"I'm not exactly sure, Mahri, but once I find out I will put a stop to this," Rudy said.
*****
Officer Jenny then stepped over. "You are the gym leader here?"
Rudy nodded
"Then you can answer some questions for me hopefully," she said holding a pad and pen in her hands.
As best he could Rudy answered what he knew, but from all the question and answering they couldn't find one theory to why some one broke in.
Officer Jenny sighed. "As soon as we find something we'll let you know."
"Thank you, Officer Jenny," Rudy said as he watched the cop speed off on her motorcycle.
"Who would break in a gym and not steal a thing?" Mark asked as he joined Rudy once again.
"That's what I would like to know," Rudy replied as he began to examine the gym.
"Will these people come again?" Mahri worriedly asked as she clutched her brother's hand.
"I really don't know."
*****
"That was easy enough," Cassidy stated as she and Butch flew in a helicopter high above the gym.
"Let's hope this plan works though," Butch replied, "Remember that Giovanni isn't exactly happy with us."
"I know, Butch. This plan will succeed. They will never know the true reason why the gym was broken into," Cassidy stated smiling evilly as she glanced below. Far below the gym looked like a tiny speck in the sky.
"Those bumbling idiots Jessie and James wouldn't be able to pull this one off," Butch commented.
"They're not even part of the team anymore. They're on the extermination list for betraying Team Rocket."
"Those two were never meant to be evil."
"I'm amazed they lasted that long. Now we can see if the dark Pokemon will actually work as predicted," Cassidy said.
"Team Rocket will never be the cause for the blame, the brat will be their scapegoat."
*****
"Jessie, do you think it's really wise to be going to my home?" James asked full of fear as they approached the huge mansion that was once his home.
"James, this is the only way. Professor Oak says that we should lie low
for a while and you're home will be the best place to stay," Jessie explained. "They would never think that we would come here."
"But, Jessie, these are my parents that you're talking about! Remember the last time?" James frantically pointed out. He couldn't believe that Jessie had said that they should go to his home. This was the last place he wanted to be the very last place. In the comforts of his home lurked his fiancée Jezebel. The last time they met he barely escaped her clutches.
"That was last time. Now I have a more secure plan that will work," Jessie persisted.
James whimpered at the thought as he peeped out of the bushes looking toward the huge mansion. He shuddered at the sight.
"I told you this plan wasn't going to work, Jessie," Meowth commented sighing.
"Shut up, cat. Why don't you try helping?"
"You mean you discussed this without me?" James asked slightly hurt.
"We had to because we knew you wouldn't like it," Meowth stated.
"And your right I don't. Now lets leave before they spot us," James said as he started to head back.
Jessie quickly pulled him back. "You're not getting away this easily. We are going to do this whether you like it or not. Just hold on one minute and everything will be explained." Jessie then stood up and disappeared behind a tree.
"EEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!" James fearfully cried out. Quickly Meowth had to place his paws on his mouth to silence him. Before him stood Jezebel.
"James, be quiet or everything will be ruined," Jezebel said in Jessie's voice.
"Jessie?" James fearfully asked. Jezebel nodded.
"This is the plan, since I look like her I'm going to pretend to be her. I managed to find out that she went on a vacation and we could use this to our benefit. You are going to say that you have finally decided to propose. Your parents will be happy and plus you'll get your inheritance," Jessie explained.
"They'll never fall for this, they didn't fall for you last plan," James desperately pointed out.
*****
"Well everything else seems intact," Rudy said after he thoroughly examined the gym. "All the Pokemon are fine too."
"Do you think they'll come again?" one of the trainers asked
"I seriously doubt that, but to be on the safe side we should have a guard during the night."
"I can do that," Mark offered.
"Great then we're all settled. I believe I have a match to attend to," Rudy replied and waving walked off with Mahri beside him.
"This time you're going to win. It's been a while since you had a battle," Mahri said as they walked over to meet the trainer. Already the trainer had passed the pretest and now it was on to the main match.
It was rare that anyone have managed to beat Rudy, which was a surprise when Ash had won. Since that battle Rudy had improved his strategies not wanting someone to win by luck.
On the shore the trainer was waiting. He seemed to be tough looking. The trainer twirled a Poke Ball on the tip of his finger. From the first glance Rudy could tell that the trainer had no true feelings toward his Pokemon. There was something about his attitude that Rudy didn't like.
"I told you I would pass that simple test and now I'll prove to you that I can beat you in the battle," the trainer greeted with a sneer.
"We'll see about that, Damion," Rudy replied. "Then we'll see who's the true Pokemon trainer."
At the stadium the rules were announced and the battle begun. It was over in a few minutes. The trainer had lost. Rudy had already predicted that he would. Happily Mahri cheered Rudy on hugging him.
"I knew you would win!" She happily commented.
"That's impossible, I want another match!" Damion angrily replied as he recalled his Pokemon. "That wasn't even a match!
"You're right it wasn't a match. I suggest you train your Pokemon even more. Maybe even show them some love. Pokemon isn't just about battling," Rudy reprimanded.
"I don't need advice from the likes of you. I know how to train my own Pokemon!" Angrily the trainer walked off. Silently Rudy watched him leave. He hated to see trainers who didn't care about their Pokemon. He hoped that this battle would teach him a lesson.
"He was a mean trainer," Mahri commented as she and Rudy headed back to the gym.
"Mahri, he just doesn't understand that's all. Hopefully he'll learn from the battle. Then he might be a good trainer."
"Someday I hope to be a great Pokemon trainer like you, Rudy!" Mahri happily said as she hugged her brother. Rudy smiled and returned the hug.
"I have no doubt that you will in my mind," Rudy replied.
*****
The sun had begun to set. An orange hue reflected against the ocean. Rudy loved the sunsets. They were so beautiful in the Orange Islands. Whenever he got the chance he would watch them. Suddenly the sky had begun to darken as an angry roar of a gryados ripped through the air. Startled Rudy turned around to see several gryados in the ocean. All of them were using dragon rage. Mahri fearfully clutched Rudy's hand.
His heart pounding, Rudy picked his sister up and ran down the beach. Very few had managed to survive from the dragon rage of a gryados. It was every sailor's fear to fall under one. Once a gryados was angry it was impossible to stop it.
"Rudy, what's happening? Why are they attacking?" Mahri asked fearfully as she buried her face in Rudy's arms.
"Something had to upset them, but what I don't know," Rudy replied as he tried to catch his breath. He gently placed his sister down now that they were safely in the gym. From the windows they watched as the Pokemon continued their attacks, their piercing screams filling the air. The trainers gathered around them trying to find out what happened. They followed Rudy's gaze and watched in fear as the peaceful ocean turned into a wild ride.
One of the trainers collapsed to the ground. Rudy managed to catch her before she hit the ground. "Not again," Rudy said as he tried to wake the trainer, "Come on, Joy, pull through."
Joy moaned and slowly opened her eyes. "What happened?" she asked.
"You fainted again," Rudy stated. The other trainers crowded around with concern.
"I did?" Joy asked surprised.
"Maybe we should take you to a doctor. This is the third time that this happened," Rudy said.
"No, I'm ok, just a little wore out. When I was looking at the gryados I sensed this dark power. Then suddenly I find myself here," Joy carefully said.
"How about the other times?" Rudy asked already forming an idea of what was happening?"
"I don't remember it's been a while," Joy answered with a puzzled expression.
"Joy, I'm thinking your psychic. I plan to get in contact with Sabrina. If I'm correct it might be better that you go to her gym not here, especially since you have an impressive Kadabra."
Joy smiled. "If I do have powers how come I never knew before?"
"Sometimes people don't find out till later." Gently Rudy helped Joy on to her feet. "I suggest you rest for a while."
Joy nodded and with the help of her fellow trainers headed to her room. Silently Rudy watched till they were out of view. Slowly the pieces were coming together. A theory was forming of why his gym was broken into. The gryados was the key to this mystery.
"Mark, do me a favor and watch over Mahri I need to check out something," Rudy ordered.
"What are you going to do?" Mark asked.
"There's something about those gryados that I don't like. It's hard to explain."
"Rudy, I want to come with you!" Mahri protested.
"No, Mahri, you can't. This could be dangerous and I don't want you hurt."
"What if you get hurt?" Mahri persisted close to tears.
"I won't get hurt. You listen to Mark ok?"
Reluctantly Mahri nodded. Rudy then picked up a dart gun he grabbed from a drawer. Picking up some tranquilizers he loaded it. He knew that Pokemon alone wouldn't be able to do the job. Outside the beach was torn apart and water had flooded almost to his gym. Their angry cries rang through the air. Lightening illuminated the dark sky.
*****
Rudy grabbed a Poke Ball from his waist and called out Blastoise his strongest water type Pokemon. Next was his Pokemon Starmie. "Alright, Blastoise, this is going to be a tough one. I'm going to need you to get me as close to the gryados as possible."
"Blastoise!" the Pokemon determinedly replied. Rudy then climbed onto its back and steadying himself he stood on its huge shell. Easily the gigantic Pokemon glided through the tossing waters of the ocean.
Once they got close enough Rudy pulled out another Poke Ball. The easiest thing to do would be to use Starmie who had some properties of the lightening type Pokemon. That would do more then hurt the gryados but everyone. Yet Staryu would be a fairer choice. This Pokemon could use psychic.
"Staryu, psychic attack now!" Rudy yelled as the first evolution of Starmie appeared. A purple hue mingled in with the dark sky. Thunder rumbled in the distance. The gryados tossed about in pain as the attack struck them. Angrily they circled around him.
"Blast?" Blastoise questioned unsure what to do as it waited for its master to give it orders.
Rudy nodded. "Use your water gun attack!" The Pokemon then aimed its two cannons at the gryados and pumped out large bursts of water at them. The force of the impact was able to shove them back giving them enough space to escape. Rudy then aimed his dart gun. Once he locked his target he pulled the trigger striking the dart in the neck of the gryados.
Quickly he then through out a Poke Ball which opened and pulled the gryados inside it. The Poke Ball then came back to his hands. "Alright, Blastoise, we came for what we wanted. Swim as fast as you can before the others are able to attack again." The Pokemon didn't need another encouragement as it glided back to land.
Rudy looked at the Poke Ball he held in his hand. "Now we'll see what this is all about. Hopefully Professor Ivy would have an explanation."
*****
"James, this is the only way we can do this," Jessie tiredly persisted.
"But what about Meowth?" They'll differently know it was us!"
"We know, that's why Meowth is going on a different mission."
"Where is Meowth going?"
"He is going to look for Sean. We're thinking that we should combine forces to defeat Giovanni once and for all. We need to find any other ex-Team Rocket members and others who are willing to help," Jessie said in a serious tone.
"Its time we put a stop to Team Rocket once and for all. For even if we do stop this dark Pokemon business they'll find some more deadlier plan," Meowth stated.
"Team Rocket is so many and we're so few!" James persisted, his voice full of fear.
"Well this is the time that we can prove that we're worth something. You know how Giovanni never thought of us as anything."
"You're right," James said after a while. "But I still don't think this will go well."
"It will, if you play it right. Let's go," Jessie replied and grabbing his arm she dragged him to the front door of the huge mansion. James gulped. He looked behind him to see Meowth walking off. Jessie range then rang the doorbell.
After a while the door opened and the Morgan's butler Hopkins appeared before them. "How may I help you?" he asked and then his eyes widened once he recognized who they were. "Why, master James and Jezebel, what a pleasure to see you both! Yet, I thought you were away on vacation?"
Jessie smiled and spoke in her southern accent; "He is the reason why I came home so early."
"Yes, I have finally realized that my parents were right and that she was the best one for me," James added as he forced a smile while his heart pounded. He could swear that everyone around him could also hear his heart pounding.
"That is splendid! Your parents will be so pleased. I shall go and announce your arrival. Please come in, settle down and relax." Hopkins then held the door open for them. "It shall be a few minutes." Once they were seated he then turned around and walked down the hallway.
"I don't know, Jessie. I really don't think they'll buy this. Hopkins seemed rather suspicious," James whispered as he worriedly glanced around the sitting room.
"It's just your imagination, James. Just don't blow it," Jessie hissed back as she pulled out a fan.
*****
"Do you think there really could still be a Mew out there?" Kate asked as she glanced from her sketchpad to look at her partner, Sean.
Sean wiped the rain off his face with his sleeve. Ever since they started this expedition it had been raining almost nonstop. It didn't seem as if the rain would ever stop. "More then likely it's just going to be some wild rumor. It was pure luck to find that fossil of Mew those scientists had found a while back," he replied after a while.
"But if it's a rumor what made you join this expedition then?" Kate challenged smiling. Upon the expedition she and Sean had been paired up as partners. She hardly knew anything about Sean, except that he was ever so serious. Sean rarely talked about himself and if she tried to get some kind of information from him he would some how change the subject or not even bother to answer.
While she on the other hand talked about her life and dreams. Kate was an outgoing person who loved to be in the thick of things. She was always asking questions trying to find the reason behind why such things existed. Among the group of scientists she was the youngest, there fore considered a rookie. Most of the scientists disapproved of her, yet Sean didn't seem to share any kind of emotion about her. Her biggest dream was to meet the famous Professor Oak. Although a scientist she loved to draw. She was constantly drawling anything that she found fascinating, even if it rained. Which it was raining now.
"It would be interesting to see the rare Pokemon Mew. Even though this could just be a rumor I wouldn't pass up an opportunity to see the Pokemon. I love traveling and this expedition gives me even more a chance to see the world," Sean replied after a while.
Most of what he said was the truth. He wasn't about to tell her that he was once part of Team Rocket and now running from them. This was the best way to hide. Team Rocket would never think to find him here out in the wilderness chasing after a rumor. If there was more proof Team Rocket would have sent some of their men to investigate this. Since there wasn't, they weren't about to waste their time on such an unreliable expedition.
Sean was a scientist. That's why Team Rocket had hired him in the first place. His knowledge on Pokemon was a great benefit to their team. If there were a Mew then Team Rocket would love to have this Pokemon. He would be sure they would use it for their current plan of dark Pokemon.
He shifted the weight of his backpack. Something in it stirred. Surprised he took it off and opened it. A Pokemon appeared before him. The Pokemon was a Meowth.
"Well it ever stop raining? Or does it rain when ever you're around?" the Pokemon questioned looking up at Sean.
"Meowth? Why aren't you with Jessie and James?" Sean asked realizing quickly who this Pokemon was.
"Hiding. I was sent to find you," Meowth answered, appearing to be quite comfortable in the backpack.
"WOW! A talking Meowth!" Kate excitedly stated. "I never heard of a talking Pokemon."
"Well then you never met me," Meowth said, sneering.
Sean eyed Kate wearily. "Why are you looking for me then?"
"We have business to take care of," Meowth began and launched into an explanation. Kate looked up at Sean surprised and confused. She didn't say a thing. Sean sighed not to happy that Meowth had managed to tell everything that he had been trying to keep a secret.
*****
"Well it looks as if our boss was right. The traitor is here," Cassidy stated shifting her backpack. "I just wish it would stop raining."
"Truthfully I think that this is a waste of time," Butch commented.
"The boss ordered us to bring him back and also the Pokemon if this rumor is true."
"Do you really think that Mew would be around here? What are the chances of seeing such a Pokemon?"
"If there is a chance we'll get it. But we have to lay low. We can't let the other scientists here know that we're from Team Rocket," Cassidy continued.
*****
Giovanni sat in his chair staring out the window of the dark sky. The plans were slowly being put together. Soon everyone would fear all Pokemon. He knew where both Jessie and James were along with Sean. His men were already set in their locations waiting for his signal. Giovanni wasn't about to let any traitors walk away free.
Something deep inside him stirred. Feelings that he thought he had buried long ago. He didn't know what triggered those feelings, but he knew that he had to dispose of those feelings. These feelings would destroy what he had worked so hard to achieve and it would go against everything that he had set.
Giovanni didn't think that this could possibly be true. He looked at his computer and on its screen was the young teen. Slowly he pulled out an old picture from a drawer in his desk. The picture was faded and turned yellow over the years. It showed of a young man and woman. The man was he long ago. The young woman, whose hair was a dark green, smiled back at him dressed in a long wedding gown.
That was a long time and over the years she had drifted while Giovanni became the head of Team Rocket. Sighing Giovanni placed the picture away. His Persian then walk up to him and laid its head on his lab. The cat Pokemon began to purr as Giovanni stroked the cat.
*****
Something wasn't right. There was an unbalance, but what caused this, Mewtwo couldn't figure out. It was something that threatened the Pokemon. That much Mewtwo knew. His peaceful world, one mainly nothing but water, had become dark and its clear waters murky. He could no longer sense the other presence of the world's inhabitants. That Mewtwo didn't like.
"What is the meaning of this?" Mewtwo questioned out loud, not expecting an answer. Silence only followed. Mewtwo swam from the depths of the ocean and up into the once blue sky. The sky was now dark and a storm threatened to form.
"We can't fight this alone. We are going to need the humans to help us," Mew commented through telepathy.
Mewtwo didn't realize that Mew had followed it. "Humans? Humans wouldn't help us. They're probably they ones behind this!" it angrily stated.
"Yes, but others will be willing to help," Mew persisted.
"I don't care what you say. Humans are ignorant to what they do. They're the ones who created me!"
"Didn't you learn from that young trainer?"
Mewtwo remained silent as he thought this over. Mew was right. Mew was always right. The thought calmed him down. Mewtwo was never found of humans, but the one trainer changed his opinion of them. Still he was reluctant to trust them. "Who are we going to find that would help us? And who would know what is causing this unbalance?"
"They will find us," Mew simply answered.
Mewtwo looked at Mew reluctantly. He still didn't like this idea, but he did realize that they would need help.
*****
"Well, well, well, I would never have thought to meet you here, Ashy boy," Gary greeted with a sneer.
Ash glared. "You again! I want a rematch!"
Misty and Brock sighed. This was going to be a long night. Already outside the rain was falling. They were lucky to make it to the Pokemon center before the rain had hit. Togepi quietly rested in Misty's arms.
"Ash, can't you at least accept your defeat?" Misty said.
"I did, but now I'm stronger and I'm ready to try again," Ash said. Beside him Pikachu nodded in agreement.
"Look I don't have time for this," Gary replied. "Why don't you save your energy for the Johto League? I wouldn't be surprised if we'll be battling each other there."
Brock and Misty exchanged glances. Ash was already hyped up enough about the Johto League. Here Ash was to sign up for it and then it would be time to compete.
"There you are, Ash!" Professor Oak cheerfully greeted. With him were his mother and Tracey.
"Oh, Ash, I'm so happy to see that you made it this far!" Delia commented as she hugged her son.
"I told you I would," Ash replied.
"Congratulations," Tracey said. "I can't wait to see the battles and all new Pokemon."
"You haven't changed one bit, Tracey," Misty said and hugged her friend.
"I missed traveling with you guys, but I'm glad that I could stay here," Tracey stated as he returned the hug.
*****
"Hey, grandfather, did my dad make it?" Gary quietly asked once no one was around.
"Your father said he wanted to, but he was called away to an expedition, Gary."
"Figures," Gary replied and walked off with Eevee tailing behind.
Professor Oak sighed. That was the one question he hoped Gary wouldn't ask. It was always uneasy when it dealt with Gary's father.
*****
"Did you guys here about all this strange stuff that's been happening lately?" Tracey asked Ash and his friend as they gathered to eat.
"What kind of strange things?" Misty asked. Ash was to busy concentrating on his food to really pay attention.
"This is just some of the stuff that's been happening. A group of Dugtrio attacked Pallet Town almost destroying it from the earthquakes they were making. In the Orange Islands, Gyarados were attacking Trevolta Island."
"Really?" Ash asked surprised, his fork stopping in front of his mouth.
"Trevolta Island? Isn't that were Rudy stays?" Misty asked.
Tracey nodded. "He was the one to stop the attack. He managed to captured one of the Gyarados too."
"That's impressive. I heard about that, but I didn't think it was really that important," Brock said.
"When did you hear about that?" Misty asked.
Brock shrugged. "While Ash was fighting some trainer I over heard a bunch of fishermen talking about it. They said that Rudy had managed to catch the Gyarados while it was using dragon range. That is really impressive. I have to say, Ash that you were lucky to win that battle."
Ash grinned. "It was a close one too."
"Wow, look at all these people here. Are all these people here to compete in the Johto League?" Tracey asked.
"I think so," Ash said, "but I'm going to beat them all."
*****
Silently Gary sat by himself. He wasn't interested in sitting with any one, nor was he hungry. Eevee sat beside Gary and rested its head on his lap. Gary scratched behind its ears. He was glad for the Pokemon's company.
"Ash, why don't see if Gary want's to join us?" Misty suggested pointing to Gary he sat alone.
"Why should I? He never has anything nice to say. More then likely he'll turn it down," Ash replied a little surprised by Misty's suggestion.
"How do you know that? Gary's changed a lot, Ash. Haven't you noticed that?"
Ash sighed. "Alright, I'll go and ask, but I won't promise you anything."
Reluctantly He walked over to Gary. "Um, Gary?"
"What do you want?" Gary replied not bothering to look up.
Ash looked at Misty as if to say I told you so. "My friends and I were just wondering if you wanted to join us."
The question surprised Gary. In the distance he saw his grandfather who nodded. "If it means that much to you. Don't think I'm going to go easy on you either," Gary answered after a while.
"Well that went rather well," Misty whispered, surprised to see Gary following Ash to the table.
"I honestly didn't think that he would accept that," Brock said.
*****
"These humans are the ones who could help us?" Mewtwo questioned in disbelief as they stared down at the same expedition camp. "They're scientists. They would rather study us!"
"You must give them a chance. I can sense that there are those who care among them. Those will be the ones to help us," Mew replied. Happily Mew glided from the clouds and somersaulting in the air came for a closer look at the humans. The Pokemon giggled, thinking how funny they looked. Curious Mew went to see what this one woman was sketching. Mew marveled at the beauty and ability on how the woman was able to capture the scenery around her on paper.
"Hey, Sean, do you have the feeling you're being watched?" Kate asked as she glanced around. She saw nothing. Mew giggled as she followed the woman's movements. "What was that?"
Sean raised an eyebrow. "Maybe the heat is getting too much for you, Kate," Sean simply stated as he went to take down the tent.
Mew giggled and gently poked Meowth, only to teleport away. Puzzled Meowth turned around and found nothing. "Who ever is poking me, they better stop or they'll get a makeover with my claws!" the Pokemon challenged as he glared at whatever was around him.
"Meowth, keep your mouth shut. We don't need anyone else knowing about this!" Sean angrily whispered.
"I don't care. I want to get who ever keeps poking me!" Meowth shot back.
*****
"Hey is that Meowth? That talking cat who is with Jessie and James?" Butch questioned pointing to the trio whom were packing up camp.
"Interesting. I wonder why that cat is with Sean instead of Jessie and James?" Cassidy asked out loud.
"Especially if they are hiding. That cat's probably playing messenger," Butch concluded.
"And that is making my curiosity grow."
"I can't believe that this many Team Rocket members have turned against us. Do you think that Giovanni is loosing his touch?"
"Giovanni is a brilliant man. It's the others who are loosing their way, unlike us," Cassidy stubbornly replied.
*****
"I am so glad the rain has stopped!" Kate happily commented as she shrugged on her backpack.
"So after seven days of nothing but rain, now we're going to have seven days of sunlight?" Sean sarcastically commented.
"Lighten up, Sean. I seem to remember that you were the one who was always complaining about the rain."
"I say we break away from this mission and find Jessie and James," Meowth suggested, riding in Sean's backpack.
"Get out of there, cat. Who said you could ride in this?" Sean said as he gave a look of dismay at the Pokemon.
"Well, I can't be spotted, right? It's the perfect place to hide."
"I'll bet. Just don't make a mess in the backpack."
Meowth grinned and relaxed as the expedition continued their journey once more. "So how are we going to meet with Jessie and James?"
"We can't leave this expedition, Meowth. It will defiantly reveal our cover. You being here is going to make this more difficult," Sean answered.
"That was the whole entire point of me coming here. I was supposed to get you."
"Don't worry, Meowth. I'll join them, even though I doubt our teaming up could do anything to stop our boss."
*****
Ash's heart pounded as he and Pikachu stepped onto the field. The stands were filled with cheering people. He could easily spot his small group of friends and family. All of them were standing. He smiled. Their support came him the reassurance that he needed. "You ready, Pikachu?"
The electric rat looked up and nodded. Ash straightened his hat and pulled out a Poke Ball. Across from him was a young girl. She too appeared ready and determined. The Poke Ball she held was one of the one's that Kurt was known to make. Ash had some of them. He wondered if this trainer was going to use Johto Pokemon.
Finally the referee stepped out into the center field. He held up both flags and after stating the rules he brought them down. The crowd cheered loudly. "Bulbasaur, I choose you!" Ash shouted as he tossed his Poke Ball.
The trainer laughed. "I hope you like my Cynaquil," she announced and threw out her Pokemon.
Ash gulped. This beginning wasn't looking too well. He didn't care. He was going to give it all he had. Surprisingly the battles quickly began and ended. Ash came out victorious. "I won!" Ash yelled as he picked up Pikachu. "I did it!"
"Congratulations!" Misty said and happily hugged both Ash and Pikachu.
"Just remember, Ash, this is only the first round," Professor Oak cautioned.
"Which I'm planning to keep this winning streak," Ash said and placed Pikachu down. The Pokemon suddenly tensed up and its expression was one of concern. Its long ears twitched. Togepi hid in its eggshell.
"Pikachu, what's the matter?" Ash asked concerned.
"Even Togepi seems upset," Misty said with a hint of fear.
"What do you suppose it could be?" Tracey asked.
"All I know is that when ever something's wrong with Pikachu it usually mean's something bad is about to happen," Brock commented, his arms crossed as he tried to think what this could be.
For an instant the ground began to shake. Misty screamed and hung onto Ash while almost knocking Ash down in the process. Tracey had to struggle to keep his balance. Quickly the crowd began to flee the stadium, unsure what was about to happen. Screams of fear filled the area. "Not another earthquake," Delia cried and clung to Professor Oak.
"Now, now, Delia. It wasn't technically an earthquake. Dugtrio were the one's who created the earthquakes," Professor Oak stated.
"Do you think it could be Dugtrio again?" Tracey asked.
"It could be, but I don't think so. This minor tremor didn't really do any kind of damage."
Even though the trembling stopped both Pikachu and Togepi still appeared to be upset. "I don't think this is over," Tracey said observing the Pokemon.
True to Tracey's words the ground began to shake even more. Slowly a crack ran through the ground in which parts where tumbling. The stands were crumbling down in a rapid past. Misty screamed in terror. Professor Oak worked to race his family and friends out of the stadium. Ash fell, tripping over a piece of ruble. As he picked himself up the ground split again separating him from his family.
"Ash!" Delia cried as she turned to go for her son.
*****
Gary broke from his grandfather's grasp and ran, half stumbling. "Grab hold of my hand!" he shouted, stretching out his arm over the growing abyss. Ash reached out, trying to grab hold of Gary's hand.
"I can't reach it!" Ash shouted, his gloved hand a few inches away from Gary's.
"Pika! Pika! Pikachu!" the Pokemon cried out, in desperation, trying to figure out how to help its master.
"I got an idea!" Ash announced and quickly reached for a Poke Ball, in which Bulbasaur appeared. "Bulbasaur, use vine whip now!"
The Pokemon sent out its long vines which wrapped around Gary's out stretched hand and Ash's. Gary pulled with all his strength. Just when he felt he was about to let go Brock and Tracey rushed over and helped. Soon Ash was among them.
Slowly the ground stopped trembling. Once the dust settled a ruined stadium surrounded them. Ash picked himself up, dusting the dirt off his clothes. His mother rushed over and hugged him.
"Oh, Ash, I was so worried about you!" she said with tears in her eyes. "It's because of you, Gary, that I still have Ash. Thank you." She then turned and hugged Gary who was surprised by the emotion.
"Thank you, Gary," Ash said at lost for words. He held out his hand once again. Hesitantly Gary shook it.
"Friends?" Ash asked, with hope in his eyes.
"Friends," Gary answered after a pause, and smiled a true smile.
"Pika!" Pikachu happily stated and climbed up on to Gary's shoulders after taking Ash's hat and placing it on Gary's head.
Ash. Misty, Brock, and Tracey laughed. Gary was not a hat person.
"Do you think that this was an actual earthquake?" Tracey asked bringing back the reality of the situation.
"I don't think so, Tracey," Professor Oak answered, picking up a small piece of black metal. "This is a remaining piece of an explosive."
*****
Giovanni smiled a cold smile. His hand rested on the head of the Persian. Silently he read the reports that were being sent up onto his computer. Everything was coming into plan. Phase two was complete. Now it was time to move on to the next phase.