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Chapter Text

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Om-!

On the blue sea, a medium-sized ship was slowly docking at the port to the sound of its whistle.

Although the coastal city is bustling and the pier lively, if you look closely, the passengers on the ship aren't focused on the scenery.

Instead, they're all gathered on the deck, watching a Pokémon battle that has just concluded.

The two Pokémon facing off are a Ralts and a purple Rattata, with their trainers being a handsome man in his 20s and a middle-aged man in a suit.

The intense battle had taken a toll on Rattata, leaving it visibly exhausted.

Realizing his disadvantage but still eager to turn things around, the middle-aged trainer anxiously shouted, "Rattata, close the distance and use Tackle!"

On command, Rattata sped forward on all fours, sprinting directly at Ralts and preparing to ram with all its might.

But just before impact, Ralts suddenly split into several identical phantoms!

Rattata charged through one of the illusions, confused as it stopped to find only a shadow.

It was a Double Team!

Seeing Rattata disoriented, Kai knew it was time to end the battle.

"Ralts, use Confusion!"

As he commanded, all the Ralt's phantoms raised their arms.

The next moment, Rattata was enveloped in a strange light, lifting it off the ground.

Despite its desperate struggles, it couldn't break free from the psychic hold.

Ralts gestured forward, and Rattata flew back, slamming into the fence with a thud.

Unable to continue, Rattata fell to the ground, exhausted.

The crew member acting as the referee raised his hand and announced loudly, "Rattata is unable to battle. Ralts wins!"

The spectators applauded enthusiastically, with one spirited girl even whistling in admiration at Kai.

"Wow, that's seven wins in a row!"

"Right? And this Ralts hasn't even taken a hit it's amazing!"

Kai stepped forward, gently patted Ralts's head, and then shook hands with the middle-aged man.

The man praised, "Your Ralts has been well-trained. I admit defeat."

"Your Rattata was strong, too," Kai replied respectfully, showing due sportsmanship. "I hope we get a chance to battle again someday."

As the man stepped back, other trainers exchanged glances, eager to challenge Kai next. But just then, Kai held up his hand.

"Sorry, everyone. We've reached our destination. It's time to disembark!"

The passengers turned, realizing that the ship had indeed arrived at the port.

———

The warm, bright sun shone over the city, while waves lapped tirelessly against the long seawall.

Gazing at the horizon, all Kai could see was a vast blue expanse where sea and sky merged like a giant mirror.

The moist, salty sea breeze blew gently, making for a comforting welcome.

This was an important seaport in the Kanto region a southern city bathed in the warm orange glow of the sunset Vermilion City.

As Kai stepped off the ship, he couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement.

Ash, Misty, Brock, Pikachu, Professor Oak, the Kanto region, Indigo League...

Memories of his childhood in his previous world filled his mind.

Though months had passed since his arrival in the Pokémon world, he still felt a sense of wonder each time he reflected on it.

Sensing Kai's excitement, Ralts let out a soft, joyful cry.

Glancing down, Kai smiled and said, "Alright, now that we're in Kanto, before challenging the Indigo League, we should head to the Pokémon Center to register for the Indigo League."

Leaving the port, Kai took out his phone, checked the map, and made his way toward the Pokémon Center.

Along the way, trainers with their Pokémon could be seen all over the city.

Pokémon had become integral to life here, involved in everything from entertainment and food services to deliveries and security.

But when people saw Ralts at Kai's side, they often did a double-take.

With its green hair resembling a half-cabbage covering much of its face and a white body looking as though it wore over-long pants, Ralts, uncommon in Kanto, drew plenty of curious glances.

Reaching the city centre, Kai soon arrived at the Pokémon Center.

Nurse Joy, in her familiar pink uniform, was at the front desk. When she noticed Kai, she greeted him with a warm smile.

"Hello! Welcome to the Pokémon Center. How can I assist you?"

"Hello, Nurse Joy," Kai replied politely. "I'd like to register for the Indigo League."

"Of course!" She pointed to a computer terminal. "Please place your Pokédex here for verification."

Kai nodded, pulled his Pokédex from his jacket, and placed it on the computer. His details appeared on the screen, and a synthesized male voice read out the information.

"Kai from Vaniville Town in the Kalos region. Registration for the Indigo League is complete. Current badge count: zero. Wishing you success in your battles!"

"Kalos?" Nurse Joy raised an eyebrow in surprise. "That's quite far!"

"Yes," Kai replied, half-jokingly. "It wasn't easy to make it here."

"Chansey! Chansey!"Just then, a Chansey waddled over carrying a box adorned with the Indigo League logo.

With a smile, Nurse Joy gestured to it and said, "For registered trainers, here's a badge case for your collection. Please take it."

Kai accepted the case, thanked Nurse Joy, and then asked, "By the way, my Pokédex still contains data from the Kalos region. Could I get it updated for Kanto Pokémon?"

"I'm afraid not," Nurse Joy said, shaking her head. "We can't update Pokédex data here, but if you visit Professor Oak's lab in Pallet Town or Professor Cerise's in Vermilion, they'd be glad to help."

----

Thank you for reading!

Chapter Text

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Coming out of the Pokémon Center, Kai didn't want to go that far to find Professor Oak but headed directly to the Cerise Laboratory in Vermilion City.

The Cerise Laboratory is located on the outskirts of Vermilion City, covering a vast area.

The entrance opens to a large courtyard, and the main building is a three-story structure with an attic.

A few days ago, Professor Cerise bought the place at a high price and converted it into a research institute.

Climbing up the steps, Kai was about to ring the doorbell when he suddenly heard light footsteps behind him.

He looked back and saw a young girl in a white dress that resembled a school uniform, standing a short distance away and watching him curiously.

The girl had a delicate, beautiful appearance, with long wine-red hair tied into a single ponytail. Her clear, large eyes gave her a sweet and gentle look.

Kai recognized her at once, she was Chloe, the childhood friend of Goh, another protagonist in the "Pokémon Journeys" anime and the daughter of Professor Cerise.

Chloe tilted her head slightly and asked softly, "Hello, can I help you with something?"

Kai quickly replied, "Hi, I need to speak with Professor Cerise. Is he in the lab?"

"You're looking for my father?" Chloe looked him up and down, then nodded. "He's inside. Come in with me."

Opening the door to the Cerise Laboratory, Kai followed Chloe through the entrance hall, arriving in a cosy living room.

Looking around, Kai was struck by the size of the building it felt like a small castle.

The decor had a refined, English manor style, with elegant furnishings and intricate decorations.

Chloe gestured to the sofa in the living room and said, "Please wait here for a bit. My dad's still working, but I'll go let him know you're here."

"Thank you very much."

Kai nodded and waited for Chloe to leave. Instead of sitting, he wandered over to a window.

Outside, he could see a dense forest filled with blooming flowers and, in the distance, the bustling city of Vermilion.

"Starters will help if I can find them," Kai thought while looking at the flowers.

Listening carefully, he could even hear the faint sound of waves from the nearby sea.

A short while later, Chloe returned, accompanied by a middle-aged man with hair the same colour as hers.

The man, around his late 30s, wore thick-rimmed glasses, a kind smile, and a white lab coat.

It was evident from his demeanour that he was a dedicated researcher.

In Kai's mind, Professor Cerise wasn't just a well-respected researcher in the Kanto region, he was also one of the few professors authorized by the Pokémon League to distribute starter Pokémon and Pokédexes to new trainers.

Seeing Kai, Professor Cerise was about to greet him but was immediately drawn to the small Ralts by Kai's side.

"A Ralts!? That's a rare Pokémon to see around here!"

At that moment, a small Pokémon bounded into the room, immediately heading over to Chloe and rubbing affectionately against her leg.

This Pokémon looked like a short, playful puppy with a tan coat, a thick yellow tuft around its neck, large, shining eyes, and a small lightning bolt-shaped tail full of energy.

Noticing Ralts, the puppy-like Pokémon's eyes filled with curiosity, and it started to approach.

But when Ralts's hands glowed slightly, the puppy Pokémon quickly backed off and dashed to Professor Cerise's side.

Professor Cerise crouched down to pat the Pokémon's head. "This is our family's Yamper. Sorry if he startled you."

"It's alright," Kai said, smiling. "Yamper is full of energy, as expected of an Electric-type."

"Oh?" Professor Cerise's eyebrows raised in surprise. "You're familiar with Yamper?"

Kai replied, "Yes. Yamper, an Electric-type Pokémon from Galar, stores electricity in its neck fur, so it often runs around discharging energy. It's adorable to watch."

"You seem very knowledgeable not an average trainer." Professor Cerise skipped the pleasantries and got right to the point. "Chloe mentioned you needed my assistance?"

"Sorry to interrupt your work, Professor." Kai took out his Pokédex. "My name is Kai, I come from the Kalos region, and I just arrived here today. I'd like your help upgrading my Pokédex to include data for Kanto Pokémon."

Accepting the Pokédex, Professor Cerise looked it over. "Certainly, that's no trouble at all. Follow me."

He led Kai from the living room to the laboratory's work area, where two assistants, a man and a woman helped him with his research.

The female assistant had dark blue hair styled in loose waves, and a warm, welcoming smile.

The male assistant, though more reserved, wore glasses and seemed highly capable.

Both assistants greeted Kai warmly as Professor Cerise introduced them.

"Hello, I'm Renji in short Ren, Professor Cerise's assistant."

"And I'm Chrysa. Nice to meet you!"

Kai shook hands with them. "Hi, I'm Kai. Thank you for your help."

Chrysa waved it off with a smile. "It's no trouble! We're not too busy since the lab hasn't officially opened yet, so it's nice to have some company."

"Absolutely," Renji added with a nod. "There are only a few of us here, so it's great to have some extra energy around."

Professor Cerise took the Pokédex, placed it in a machine, and after a few minutes, handed it back to Kai.

"All done! The Pokédex is now updated with Kanto data. Are you planning to challenge the Indigo League next?"

Kai nodded. "Yes, but I only have Ralts with me right now. I'll need a few more Pokémon to challenge the gyms."

Hearing this, Renji perked up. "There are so many great Pokémon in Kanto! Any in particular you're hoping to catch?"

Kai replied, "I'd love to catch the Kanto starters Charmander, Squirtle, and Bulbasaur. Other than that, I'll see what fate has in store."

---

Thank you for reading!

Chapter Text

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"Starter Pokémon?" Professor Cerise chuckled, "That's an interesting term."

"It's just a nickname, Professor; don't take it too seriously." Kai asked again, "Do you know where any wild Starter Pokémon might be found around here?"

"As for the Starter Pokémon, Charmander can usually be found near volcanoes or in lava caves, while Squirtle can only be found along remote coasts and isolated islands."

"And as for Bulbasaur, you'll likely see them in dense forests," Ren seemed to think of something and asked, "Have you heard of the Mysterious Garden?"

"The Mysterious Garden?" Kai was taken aback for a moment, then shook his head.

Beside them, Professor Cerise explained, "Legend has it that the Mysterious Garden is a place where Bulbasaur gather to hold a festival celebrating their evolution, but since it has never been discovered, some people believe it only exists in myth."

Hearing this, Kai seemed to remember an episode about it.

He recalled that in the Hidden Village chapter, Ash once encountered the Mysterious Garden and found a group of Bulbasaur gathering there!

Curious, Kai asked, "But is it the season for them to hold their festival?"

"I'm not sure," Professor Cerise thought for a moment, then added, "But I do believe the Mysterious Garden is real. And even if it's not the festival season, I imagine quite a few Bulbasaur would still inhabit the area."

"I see." Kai frowned. "But I don't know its exact location. How can I find it?"

Professor Cerise activated his computer and pulled up a map of the area around Vermilion City on the large screen.

"While I don't know the exact location of the Mysterious Garden, we've noticed that in the forest north of Vermilion City, there are quite a few wild Bulbasaur. You could try your luck there."

"I see." Kai's eyes lit up, and he thanked him sincerely, "Thank you so much, Professor Cerise!"

---

Walking down the steps of the research lab with Chloe, Kai looked back and saw Professor Cerise's Yamper had followed them out, wagging its tail and trotting close beside Chloe.

Kai smiled and said, "Looks like it likes you."

"Really?" Chloe glanced down at Yamper, her tone neutral. "I don't feel much about it it often hangs around my parents at home. I think it treats everyone the same."

In their brief interaction, Kai realized Chloe wasn't the talkative type.

Though she was only ten, her calm and composed demeanour made her seem mature and well-behaved.

Kai knelt, gently scratching Yamper's forehead.

Yamper closed its eyes contentedly and stuck out its long tongue, enjoying the attention.

"No need to see me off any further. Chloe, I'm sure we'll meet again."

After waving goodbye to Chloe, Kai headed to an outdoor store in Vermilion City.

Where he bought a cap, sleeping bag, water bottle, binoculars, portable food, and some cooking supplies, packing them into a large backpack.

Since he was heading into the wild, he needed to be prepared.

If he missed a town by nightfall, he would rely on this equipment to camp out.

Leaving Vermilion City, Kai and Ralts walked northward until they reached a dense forest.

Entering the forest, his cell signal quickly disappeared, and his GPS stopped working.

Kai had to rely on his intuition as he navigated.

The forest was vast and dense. Initially, he found a few narrow trails, but as he ventured deeper, the paths faded, and Ralts had to use its psychic powers to move branches so they could continue.

The surroundings were silent.

There weren't any Caterpie, Weedle, Oddish, or Bellsprout Pokémon usually common in forests.

The more he noticed this, the more convinced Kai became that he had entered a special habitat.

In this sprawling forest, he walked and paused, and finally, at dusk, he heard cries of multiple Pokémon ahead.

He quietly pushed through the branches and found himself overlooking a basin in the thick forest.

In the centre of the basin was a giant dead tree, around which countless Bulbasaur were playing.

After a long journey, Kai had finally discovered the fabled Mysterious Garden!

Seeing this peaceful sanctuary, he refrained from entering to avoid disturbing the Bulbasaur.

Instead, he took out his binoculars and observed them as the sunset.

Bulbasaur was a four-legged Pokémon that resembled a small dinosaur with green, spotted skin, bright red eyes, and a large plant bulb on its back.

The Bulbasaur didn't seem to notice Kai's presence, but with so many around, it was hard to choose which one to approach.

After some observation, Kai fixed his gaze on a Bulbasaur that had just wandered away from the group.

This Bulbasaur looked relaxed, occasionally using its vines to pick fruit from trees and eat it. Slowly, it distanced itself from the others.

Seeing an opportunity, Kai moved silently, careful not to make a sound as he approached it.

Kai chose this Bulbasaur since he didn't want to venture too deep and cause panic among the others.

Once close enough, Kai made his move, stepping out quietly to block its retreat.

Hearing the noise, Bulbasaur turned and froze upon seeing Kai.

It lowered its stance, then raised two vine whips from the bulb on its back, waving them threateningly in the air.

Locking eyes, Kai raised his hand, and Ralts stepped forward to meet Bulbasaur's gaze.

Upon seeing Ralts, Bulbasaur seemed to understand something, letting out a soft cry of "Saur! Saur!" as it prepared for battle.

----

Thank you for reading!

Chapter Text

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"Ralts, use Psychic!"

Following Kai's command, Bulbasaur was suddenly surrounded by light and lifted into the air.

"Bulba...Saur!!

After the initial shock, though it was in pain and unable to move its body, Bulbasaur resisted the urge to surrender.

It endured the pain and used its Vine Whip to strike Ralts fiercely.

Kai wasn't about to let Ralts take that hit directly.

"Use Teleport!"

Through the red horns on its head, Ralts could keenly sense Kai's emotions.

As soon as the words were spoken, Ralts had already vanished, teleporting away from harm.

The Vine Whip struck the ground, scattering grass clippings everywhere.

When Ralts reappeared, it had shifted from Bulbasaur's front to its rear.

With a wave of its hands, Bulbasaur's body was thrown sideways, slamming into a tree trunk before tumbling to the ground.

Bulbasaur cried out in pain, the bulb on its back quivering as it launched a small, peach-pit-sized seed toward Ralts Leech Seed, which would sap the opponent's energy!

"Ralts, dodge it!"

Ralts used Teleport again to avoid the attack.

But as it reappeared, Bulbasaur was already charging toward it, attempting a Tackle.

This time, without Kai needing to say anything, Bulbasaur was surrounded by light again and thrown back against the tree with even more force than before.

"Bul...ba... saur..."

A loud thud echoed.

This time, Bulbasaur completely lost consciousness.

Seeing this, Kai quickly took a Poké Ball from his belt and tossed it at Bulbasaur.

The red light engulfed Bulbasaur, pulling it into the Poké Ball. The ball shook slightly before the light dimmed with a soft click.

Bulbasaur had been successfully captured!

Only then did Kai's racing heart finally calm down.

In the distance, several other Bulbasaur had been drawn by the sound of the battle.

Kai picked up the Poké Ball but didn't leave right away.

Instead, he quietly moved to the edge of the clearing, took out his phone, and snapped several photos of the Mysterious Garden before departing, satisfied.

A few hours later, as he emerged from the forest, the night sky was already filled with stars and moonlight.

Under the gentle glow, Kai spread out his sleeping bag, and Ralts gathered some branches.

Once the campfire was lit, the warm flames not only dispelled the chill but added a comforting brightness to the night.

Setting up a pot stand, Kai took out some canned food and prepared a simple, warm meal for himself and his two Pokémon.

The aroma drifted gently into the air.

Although not a skilled cook, Kai found that heating canned food was simple enough.

When everything was ready, he opened the Poké Ball to let Bulbasaur out.

After a few hours of rest, Bulbasaur had regained most of its strength.

But upon seeing Kai, it took a cautious step back, eyes still wary.

"Bulba! Bulba-saur!"

Smiling gently, Kai spoke, "Bulbasaur, I'm sorry about earlier, but I'm glad to have you with us now. Welcome, and I hope we'll take care of each other."

He offered a plate of food to Bulbasaur.

The tempting aroma wafted under its nose.

"Bulbasaurrr!" (Humph, I forgive you human)

Swallowing hard, Bulbasaur seemed to be drawn in by the meal.

After some hesitation, seeing Ralts eating peacefully, Bulbasaur finally lowered its guard, leaned toward the food, and began to eat.

"Food can tame everything," Kai thought while looking at Bulbasaur.

…

Following the same path back, Kai returned to the Cerise Laboratory.

Seeing Bulbasaur with Kai, Professor Cerise and the others were astounded.

"Bulbasaur!? You found the Mysterious Garden!?"

Kai took out his phone and sent all the photos of the Mysterious Garden to Professor Cerise.

As Professor Cerise displayed the pictures on his computer, everyone gathered around, marvelling at them.

After carefully reviewing the photos, Professor Cerise adjusted his glasses and said, "Discovering the Mysterious Garden is indeed a remarkable find. However, from the images, we can see that it's an untouched ecosystem. I believe we should protect this place and keep its existence a secret."

"You're right, Professor," Kai agreed, nodding. "This special habitat deserves to be preserved and undisturbed."

With everyone in agreement, they tacitly decided not to discuss the Mysterious Garden any further.

Just then, Cerise looked down at Bulbasaur.

"Judging by the strength of this Bulbasaur, it must be pretty powerful, right?"

Though a researcher, Professor Cerise owned a Magnemite and enjoyed watching Pokémon battles.

At the lab, he paid close attention to Pokémon strength.

"Yes." Kai knelt beside Bulbasaur, gently patting its forehead. "This Bulbasaur is quite strong. On the way back, we encountered a challenge from a Youngster."

"Bulbasaur took on two opponents, Diglett and Rattata, defeating both of them. Thanks to that, I feel my bond with Bulbasaur has grown."

At that moment, Professor Cerise approached Kai.

"Kai, I have a proposal for you."

Seeing the professor's serious expression, Kai asked curiously, "Of course, Professor. What do you need?"

Professor Cerise explained, "From what I've seen, you're quite exceptional. You can uncover mysteries that most people overlook, and you're thoughtful and composed, especially when it comes to Pokémon."

"You may have a special talent hidden within you. Would you consider becoming a Special Research Fellow here at our laboratory?"

"A Special Research Fellow?"

Professor Cerise elaborated, "As you journey, you will meet, connect with, and learn from various Pokémon across this planet."

"By doing so, you'd deepen our understanding of Pokémon and uncover hidden secrets around the world."

Kai was taken aback. He remembered how, in the anime, Ash and Goh both had served as Special Research Fellows at Cerise Laboratory.

Now, was he the one who had achieved that role first?

----

Thank you for reading!

Chapter Text

--

At noon, during the school lunch break…

In a cool café by the seaside in Vermilion City, Kai, Chloe, and his two Pokémon sat across from each other at a table.

In front of them was a large, colorful Super Sundae a store specialty that came in a rainbow of flavors and colors.

As the shop's signature dessert, this sundae wasn't just delicious; it was ice-cold, sending a shiver straight to the brain after the first taste!

Despite the brain freeze, Chloe couldn't help but sigh, "No matter how many times I have this, the flavour of the Super Sundae is unforgettable!"

Kai had originally planned to have lunch at the lab. But with some free time afterwards, he wandered around the city and happened to spot Chloe on her lunch break near her school. He invited her for a little rest at the café.

After two days of spending time together, they had grown more comfortable, their conversation now flowing naturally.

In particular, when Kai shared some of his travel stories, the atmosphere warmed even more between them.

After a few bites, Chloe asked, "What's your plan next?"

"My plan…" Kai stretched his arms, gazing out the window. "Even though I'm now a special research investigator, Professor Cerise hasn't given me any specific assignments."

"Other than collecting the three starter Pokémon, I'm planning to challenge the Gyms, earn badges, and work toward the Indigo League Championship."

"Challenge the Gyms?" Chloe, not very familiar with Pokémon battles, asked curiously, "Are you going to challenge the Vermilion Gym?"

"No," Kai shook his head. "Lt. Surge, the Vermilion Gym Leader, is a master of Electric-type Pokémon. While my grass type might have an advantage, I'm planning to head to Cerulean City and Pewter City first to challenge the Cerulean and Pewter Gyms. But before that, I need to catch another Pokémon."

Chloe looked puzzled. "Why start so far away?"

"It's a bit like levelling up in a game," Kai smiled. "Starting from easier challenges and building up to harder ones makes the journey more exciting."

Outside, students in school uniforms passed by, and a boy with slightly tanned skin about Chloe's age-spotted her through the open window and approached out of curiosity.

"Chloe, who's this guy?"

As he spoke, his gaze moved between Kai and Chloe, as if trying to figure something out.

"Goh?" Chloe blinked, then casually introduced him. "This is Kai; he's a special research investigator at my dad's lab. Kai, this is Goh, my classmate."

Kai looked him over; he looked exactly like he did in the anime.

"My name's Kai. Nice to meet you." Although Kai didn't have the best impression of Goh from the anime, he extended his hand politely.

"Hey, I'm Goh." Goh eyed Kai, sizing him up before reluctantly shaking his hand. As he withdrew, his gaze fell on Ralts, who was sitting beside Kai.

"Whoa! What kind of Pokémon is that?"

"This is my Ralts. It's a Psychic and Fairy-type Pokémon. She's a bit reserved and doesn't like strangers, so you might want to keep some distance."

But Goh didn't seem to hear Kai's warning. Gazing at Ralts, he grew more and more enamoured.

"It's so cute! I'll have to catch a Ralts someday!"

Hearing this, Kai's curiosity sparked. "Goh, what's your dream?"

Although surprised by Kai's question, Goh answered honestly, "My dream? To catch every Pokémon in the world, of course including Mythical Pokémon!"

Just as I thought.

Kai sighed inwardly. "But if that's the case, with the number of Pokémon always growing, wouldn't it be hard to find time to properly train all of them? Wouldn't that mean you'd end up neglecting some of the Pokémon you've caught?"

"Well…" Goh hesitated, seeming to have never considered this before. But after a moment, he shrugged. "It doesn't matter! My goal is to catch them all. Everything else can wait."

"Then we're different," Kai chuckled. "My dream, besides winning the Championship, is to travel with my Pokémon to every corner of the world and experience the incredible sights. I don't need too many Pokémon; just a few I genuinely connect with."

Hearing Kai's words, Chloe looked down at her sundae, lost in thought.

Traveling with Pokémon?

It was something she'd never imagined, but somehow, it sounded wonderful.

After spending some time together, they eventually went their separate ways.

----

Leaving Vermilion City, Kai headed north along the road.

Beside him, his two Pokémon, Ralts and Bulbasaur, walked by his side.

He'd decided not to keep them in their Poké Balls, inspired by Ash's style.

Hiking alongside his Pokémon wasn't only a good way to strengthen their skills, but it also deepened their bond. Travelling like this, he would never feel alone.

Between Vermilion and Cerulean City lies Saffron City, the largest and most bustling metropolis in Kanto, while Celadon City is located to the west of Saffron City.

Saffron City was full of towering skyscrapers and was famous even beyond Kanto.

It also housed two gyms: Sabrina's Psychic-type Gym and the Fighting Dojo.

But with his current skills, Kai knew he wasn't ready for those Gyms, so he bypassed Saffron City and continued toward Cerulean City.

The journey was mostly quiet. However, as he passed a large meadow, a fox-like Pokémon caught his attention.

It had brown fur, a bushy tail, slender legs, bright brown eyes, a small black nose, and long rabbit-like ears, giving it a cute, gentle appearance.

Before it noticed him, Kai quickly took out his Pokédex and pointed it toward the Pokémon.

Pokédex: Eevee, the Evolution Pokémon. Normal-type. Known to evolve into many different forms

A wild Eevee? There's no way I'm letting this chance slip!

"Bulbasaur, it's your turn!"

At Kai's command, Bulbasaur sprang into action, bounding toward Eevee.

"Bulba! Bulba!"

Seeing Bulbasaur, Eevee didn't run but cried out excitedly and launched its attack!

"Oh? Interesting," Kai grinned. "Coming at me head-on? Looks like you've got a Fighting spirit!"

---
Thank you for reading!

Chapter Text

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"Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip!"

From the bud on Bulbasaur's back, two vines lashed out, slicing through the air with a sharp swish, aimed straight at Eevee.

But Eevee was quick and nimble, its small, brown paws moving like a blur.

With a precise twist, it darted sideways, evading the vines just as they cracked down onto the ground, kicking up a faint puff of dust.

"Veee~"(Weak)

Then, as if taunting, Eevee looked back and gave Bulbasaur a mischievous cry, eyes sparkling with challenge.

"Bulba!" Bulbasaur's face tightened with frustration, but just as it was about to charge forward, Kai's calm voice cut through the tension.

"Bulbasaur, don't get distracted by its taunts. Focus! Keep using Vine Whip!"

At Kai's command, Bulbasaur's vines shot out again, this time in a relentless, rhythmic assault.

Each swipe whistled through the air, closing in on Eevee from every angle.

"Good! Keep up that speed! We'll wear it down bit by bit!"

Eevee was keeping up, dashing and weaving through the flurry of strikes, each movement a display of its agility and spirit.

But over time, it began to tire, the strain showing in its laboured breaths and slightly slower steps.

Finally, one of Bulbasaur's vines found its mark, striking Eevee hard across the side.

The small Pokémon stumbled, letting out a pained yelp.

"Eee...vee..."

But Eevee wasn't done yet. Digging its paws into the ground, it pushed off, throwing itself into Bulbasaur with all its remaining energy.

"Oh, so you want to go head-to-head, huh?" Kai smirked. "Bulbasaur, don't back down! Use Tackle!"

With a determined look, Bulbasaur lowered its head and charged, matching Eevee's speed.

The two Pokémon collided with a powerful impact, each one thrown backwards by force, landing in the dirt.

"Eee...vaah..."

They lay there, visibly weakened, both struggling to stand.

But Bulbasaur recovered first, getting up with a grunt. It stretched its vines out again, taking advantage of Eevee's exhaustion.

This time, Eevee couldn't dodge, and with a few more well-placed strikes, it finally collapsed.

Seeing his chance, Kai reached for a Poké Ball. With a confident throw, he watched as the ball absorbed Eevee in a flash of red light. It rocked slightly before clicking shut.

A smile spread across Kai's face. He'd done it. Another Pokémon was added to his team.

-----

The next morning, at the Pokémon Center in Cerulean City…

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the Pokémon Center, Kai thanked Nurse Joy for the meal.

His Pokémon were well-rested and back to peak condition after their previous day's battles.

Just as he was about to step outside, he noticed a new notice pinned on the door.

Curiosity piqued, Kai walked over for a closer look and was surprised to see it was a wanted poster.

Blurry photographs showed two figures he immediately recognized Team Rocket's notorious Jessie and James.

Behind the counter, Nurse Joy noticed him looking and offered a warning. "Trainer, there've been reports of Pokémon thieves in this area. Please stay alert."

Kai nodded, giving her a reassuring smile. "Thank you, Nurse Joy. I'll be careful."

With that, he headed off, following the main road toward the Cerulean Gym.

The Cerulean Gym was an impressive sight, built on a large lake that served as its foundation.

The entire structure towered above the surrounding buildings, with sleek, dark grey walls and a massive, glittering glass dome atop it a true architectural wonder that looked both elegant and powerful.

As Kai approached, he remembered what Nurse Joy had told him: the Gym Leader here wasn't Misty.

But her three older sisters, known as the "Sensational Sisters." Daisy, Lily, and Violet were famed not only for their skill but for their beauty, often referred to as the "Flowers of Cerulean."

However, instead of the usual quiet around the Gym's entrance, a lively crowd had gathered outside.

Kai overheard a few conversations and quickly pieced together that today, the three sisters were putting on one of their popular synchronized water ballets.

The buzz was palpable; it seemed everyone in town was eager to catch a glimpse of the performance.

Kai couldn't help but chuckle. "Some things never change," he thought. "Boys will always be boys but I am also a boy"

Realizing he'd need to wait until after the show to challenge the Gym, Kai decided to buy a ticket and join the crowd. Why not enjoy the show while he waited?

The performance hall was centred around an expansive pool, with seats arranged to give everyone a perfect view.

Kai found his seat just as the lights dimmed, and a voice came through the speakers, calm and theatrical.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for waiting. The Cerulean City Water Ballet, performed by the Sensational Sisters, is about to begin!"

With those words, spotlights flared to life, all converging on the diving platform.

There stood the three sisters, each dressed in a shimmering swimsuit, waving to the audience with graceful smiles.

The crowd's cheers were deafening, and Kai couldn't help but admire them himself.

The sisters were undeniably stunning, with long, elegant legs that drew the audience's attention.

As the music swelled, they dove into the water, moving in flawless harmony.

Their routine was mesmerizing, each twist, turn, and synchronized leap a testament to their skill and practice.

The audience was completely absorbed, and before Kai knew it, nearly an hour had passed, the time slipping away like water itself.

When the show ended, the audience erupted in applause, a wave of admiration that filled the hall.

"Daisy is so beautiful and gentle a perfect lady!" someone exclaimed nearby.

"You're crazy! Lily is the most stunning! Her blue hair and red eyes are out of this world!" countered another.

"Hmph, neither of you has any taste. Violet is the cutest by far!"

Kai chuckled, amused by the lively debate.

Now that the show was over, it was finally his turn to take the stage!

He slipped out of the main seating area and made his way down a side stairwell.

Soon, he spotted the three sisters walking through the aquarium's glass-lined hallway, their conversation lively and their spirits high.

"Did you see the audience's reaction?" Daisy laughed, clearly thrilled. "Today's show was a huge success!"

"It was," agreed Lily, brushing her hair back. "All that extra training paid off."

Just as they were about to disappear around a corner, Kai quickened his pace, calling out to them.

"Excuse me, Miss Daisy! Just a moment, please!"

The three turned, looking at him with surprised expressions.

"Sir, the show's over," Daisy said, her voice polite but firm. "If you want to see it again, you'll have to come back tomorrow."

"Oh, no, that's not it…" Kai began, but before he could explain further, Lily cut in with a smile that was polite but businesslike.

"Are you a reporter? If so, interviews need to be scheduled through our agent."

"Reporter?" Kai shook his head, a bit flustered. "No, I'm not here for an interview. I'm here to…"

"Oh, I see!" Violet crossed her arms with a teasing grin. "You're here for an autograph, aren't you?"

Kai felt himself getting exasperated; these three didn't give him a chance to get a word in edgewise.

Noticing his flustered expression, Daisy looked at him more closely, a knowing smile dawning on her face. "Wait a minute… are you here to challenge the Gym?"

----

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter Text

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The battlefield at Cerulean Gym consisted of a large, deep, circular pool with a jagged rock formation protruding in the centre.

Since it was a Water-type Gym, there wasn't much space for other types of Pokémon to manoeuvre, so every move would have to be planned carefully.

On opposite sides of the pool, where the Trainers commanded their Pokémon, Kai and the Sensational Sisters stood face-to-face across the water.

Daisy spoke up first. "The rules are simple: each of us will use one Pokémon. If you can defeat all three of us, you'll win the challenge."

Violet folded her arms and asked, "So, who would you like to challenge first?"

Kai glanced at each of them. "Doesn't matter to me. I'll leave it up to you."

"What confidence!" The youngest sister, Lily, stepped forward eagerly, taking a Poké Ball from her pocket. "In that case, let me go first! Come on out, Goldeen!"

A flash of red light and a sleek white fish with a single sharp horn appeared in the pool, elegantly swimming in place.

"Gol-deen!!"

Kai pulled out his Pokédex and scanned the Goldeen.

Pokédex: "Goldeen, the Goldfish Pokémon. Its dorsal and tail fins are well developed, allowing it to swim at speeds of up to five knots. Because its tail fin flutters gracefully like a dress, it's also called the Water Queen."

Putting his Pokédex away, Kai glanced at his feet.

"Eevee, it's your turn!"

Eevee gave an excited cry and leapt onto the rocky ledge with a graceful bound.

The two Pokémon didn't have any type advantages over each other, so this battle would come down to pure strength.

However, given the watery terrain, it wouldn't be easy for Eevee to gain the upper hand over Goldeen.

"Goldeen, use Peck!"

With Lily's command, the battle officially began!

Goldeen used its tail to propel itself out of the water, its horn aimed directly at Eevee as it shot through the air.

"Eevee, dodge it!"

Eevee sidestepped deftly, dodging the attack with ease.

"Use Tackle!"

As the two Pokémon crossed paths, Eevee jumped into the air and lunged toward Goldeen, ready to strike.

But just as Eevee was about to land the hit, Goldeen dove back into the water, disappearing from sight.

Eevee, unable to halt its momentum, tumbled into the water but quickly resurfaced, paddling on all fours to scramble back onto the rock,

Its fur soaking wet and drooping comically like a drenched puppy.

On the opposite side, Lily chuckled. "Well done, Goldeen! Keep forcing it back into the water!"

Goldeen repeated its strategy, lunging up with Peck once more. But now, with Eevee weighed down by its soaked fur.

Its movements had slowed, and it only barely dodged Goldeen's second attack.

Seeing Eevee's close call, Kai let out a sigh of relief, but worry crept into his expression.

If Eevee took a few direct hits, it wouldn't hold up for long.

Thinking quickly, Kai scanned the area and noticed a cluster of rocks under Eevee's feet. An idea started forming in his mind.

"Eevee, jump onto that pile of rocks beneath you!"

Eevee turned and glanced back at Kai, slightly puzzled, but it obediently leapt to the indicated spot.

Lily laughed. "Whatever you're planning won't make a difference. Goldeen, use Horn Attack!"

Once again, Goldeen propelled itself out of the water, its horn aimed directly at Eevee.

"Eevee, dodge!"

Eevee sidestepped at the last second, causing Goldeen to miss and shatter the rock Eevee had been standing on just moments before.

"Eevee, jump back to where you were!"

Eevee quickly leapt back to the original spot, as Goldeen circled around for another attack.

Seeing Goldeen closing in, Kai remained calm. "Eevee, use Sand Attack!"

At Kai's command, Eevee turned swiftly, and with a strong kick from its forepaws, it sent a cloud of dust and gravel flying toward Goldeen.

The sand cloud struck Goldeen's eyes, disorienting it, and disrupted its speed, causing it to crash onto the rock.

Lily's face paled. "What?!"

Kai smirked. It didn't matter how elegantly a fish flopped; without water, it was just as helpless.

Frantically, Lily called out, "Goldeen, get back in the water!"

But Goldeen floundered on the rock, unable to find its way as it writhed in confusion.

"Darn it," Lily muttered as Eevee began to approach Goldeen. "Goldeen, use Supersonic!"

A visible soundwave rippled from Goldeen's mouth, and while it did manage to disorient Eevee briefly, the effect didn't last.

Once Eevee regained its bearings, the situation remained unchanged.

"Eevee," Kai instructed, "time to end this battle!"

Eevee nodded and lunged forward, striking Goldeen with a solid hit that left it unable to continue fighting.

Lily sighed, recalling Goldeen back into its Poké Ball as she stepped aside silently.

"Not bad," Violet remarked as she walked over to the Trainer's area, throwing her own Poké Ball into the water. "But the next Pokémon won't be so easy. Come on out, Kingler!"

In a flash, a crab-like Pokémon appeared, raising its massive claws, which gleamed intimidatingly.

But on closer inspection, its red-and-white shell and dull eyes gave it a slightly goofy, not-so-bright look.

Kai pulled out his Pokédex again.

Pokédex: "Kingler, the Pincer Pokémon. Its claws are extremely powerful but may sometimes fall off when used for attack. However, they grow back quickly. Kinglers are often seen battling for territory on beaches with scarce food. When threatened, they produce foam to make themselves appear larger."

Putting his Pokédex away, Kai called to Eevee, "Eevee, come back. You did great."

As Eevee trotted back to his side, Kai patted it affectionately on the forehead, then looked over to Bulbasaur.

"Your turn, Bulbasaur!"

"Bulba! Bulba!" Bulbasaur eagerly hopped to the edge of the pool and leapt onto the rock formation.

Bulbasaur had a type advantage with its Grass-and-Poison typing against Kingler's Water type.

But, as before, the waterlogged battlefield limited its movement.

Keeping Bulbasaur safe from falling in would be essential to secure victory.

----

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter Text

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Kai looked up at the ceiling. This battle wasn't without its advantages.

Through the glass dome overhead, he could see the sun clearly, casting a soft, bright light down onto the battlefield.

Sunny weather again today…

"Let's begin!" Violet shouted, her voice full of energy. "Kingler, use Water Gun!"

A thick jet of water shot out from Kingler's mouth, aimed directly at Bulbasaur.

"Bulbasaur, dodge! Use Vine Whip!" Kai commanded.

At his command, Bulbasaur leapt to the side to dodge, while two vines whipped out from the bud on its back, lashing toward Kingler.

"Kingler, dive into the water!" Violet ordered.

In an instant, Kingler plunged into the pool, leaving Bulbasaur's vines striking the water's surface and splashing water everywhere.

Seeing this, Violet smiled. "One on land and one in the water it's hard for either of us to land a hit like this. Looks like we need a change of plan. Kingler, climb onto the rocks!"

"Oh?" Kai raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Are you sure it's wise to give up the advantage of the water?"

Violet grinned. "Unlike Goldeen, my Kingler's still strong on land! Kingler, use Leer!"

Kingler's four legs propelled it up the rocks in quick, sideways steps.

Its eyes, usually dull, suddenly glowed red as it locked a chilling stare onto Bulbasaur.

'Trying to make Bulbasaur more vulnerable with fear, huh?' Kai thought.

"Bulbasaur, don't be intimidated! Use Growth!" he called out.

A faint green glow enveloped Bulbasaur's body. The Growth move would boost its attack power, and with the sunlight, its effects would be even stronger.

Seeing her chance, Violet's eyes sparkled as she gave her next command. "Kingler, use Water Gun now!"

Bulbasaur didn't have time to dodge, and the Water Gun hit it directly.

Although Leer had lowered Bulbasaur's defence, the attack still didn't do much damage, thanks to its Grass typing reducing Water-type moves.

"Bulbasaur, it's our turn to strike! Use Tackle!"

Knowing the potential force behind the move, Violet quickly countered, "Kingler, use Harden!"

Just before Bulbasaur hit, Kingler's shell took on a metallic sheen, making it tougher and slicker.

With a loud thud, Bulbasaur's Tackle hit solidly, forcing Kingler to stumble back slightly.

"Now, Kingler, use Vice Grip!"

Kingler's large claw snapped forward, clamping tightly around Bulbasaur's neck.

"Bul...baaa!"

Bulbasaur cried out in pain. Vice Grip, being a Normal-type move, wasn't weakened by Bulbasaur's Grass and Poison typing.

Combined with Leer's defence drop, it was dealing serious damage.

But Kai wasn't about to give up.

"Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip!"

Bulbasaur's vines rose high and came crashing down on Kingler again and again, dealing massive damage each time.

After several blows, Kingler finally couldn't withstand the pain and let go, retreating from Bulbasaur.

"Now it's our turn!" Kai commanded. "Bulbasaur, use Leech Seed!"

From the bud on Bulbasaur's back, a small seed flew out, attaching itself to Kingler.

Quickly, it sprouted vines that wrapped around Kingler, steadily draining its energy.

Violet, seeing Kingler struggle, made one last attempt. "Kingler, get back to the water!"

Trying to escape now?

Too late!

"Bulbasaur, finish it! Use Vine Whip!"

Bulbasaur's vines shot out again, delivering a final, heavy blow to Kingler.

The Grass-type advantage, combined with the draining effect of Leech Seed, left Kingler drained of all its remaining energy.

"K-Kling...ler…"

With a heavy thud, Kingler collapsed on the rock.

"I've lost." Violet sighed, and with a flash of red light, she recalled Kingler.

Only one Pokémon remained now to defeat.

With a serious expression, Daisy stepped into the Trainer's position. "You're strong, but we won't give up that easily. Go, Seel!"

With a flash, she released Seel onto the pool. The grey-white, sea lion-like Pokémon appeared, wagging its forked tail.

Kai pulled out his Pokédex and pointed it at Seel.

The Pokédex beeped: "Seel, the Sea Lion Pokémon. Seel lives among icebergs and uses the sharp horn on its head to break through ice. Its thick skin allows it to thrive in temperatures as low as minus 40 degrees."

"Come back, Bulbasaur," Kai recalled Bulbasaur, then released his last Pokémon, his ace Ralts.

"Ralts, it's up to you!" he called out.

"Raa...lts!"

Ralts let out a soft cry, teleporting instantly to a rock near the pool.

It looked at Seel, and there was a gleam in its eyes beneath its bangs.

"Ralts, huh?" Daisy's expression softened at the sight of the cute Pokémon. "It's adorable. Is it from another region?"

"That's right," Kai confirmed, offering a kind reminder. "Be careful, Miss Daisy."

"What a gentleman." Daisy smiled, then turned serious again. "But I won't hold back just because of that. Seel, use Aqua Jet!"

Aqua Jet cloaked Seel's body in water, propelling it at Ralts with impressive speed a physical Water-type attack stronger than Water Gun.

The move showed Seel's level was no small feat.

"Ralts, dodge!"

In an instant, Ralts teleported out of the way, effortlessly avoiding Seel's attack.

"Psychic types are tricky," Daisy admitted, shaking her head. "Alright then, let's limit its movements. Seel, use Icy Wind!"

A fierce, icy blast erupted from Seel's mouth, covering Ralts and the surrounding area.

The temperature dropped dramatically, and even the surface of the water began to freeze, forming a thick layer of ice.

Although Ralts used teleportation to evade the attack, the freezing environment slowed it down noticeably.

----

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter Text

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"Ralts, use Confusion!"

Following the command, Ralts prepared to unleash its psychic power, but just then, Seel darted into the water at incredible speed.

The thick ice on the surface obscured Ralts' view of Seel's position.

As Ralts searched, Seel suddenly broke through the ice from a blind spot and landed a strong headbutt.

Though caught off guard, Ralts had been training with Kai for months and quickly used Teleport to escape.

"Seel, use Ice Shard!"

Seel opened its mouth, creating multiple ice shards, which it launched at the recently teleported Ralts.

The explosion scattered ice and debris, enveloping Ralts.

However, as the dust settled, Daisy and the others were astonished.
Despite being hit, Ralts seemed largely unharmed!

"Huh? Strange," Daisy murmured in surprise. "There shouldn't be a type advantage here Ralts has Psychic and Fairy types, while Seel is Water. And Ice Shard is an Ice-type move. Why didn't it do more damage?"

Kai grinned. "Miss Daisy, your Seel must have the Thick Fat ability, right?"

Daisy nodded. "That's right, but why does that matter?"

Kai explained, "My Ralts has Trace as its ability, allowing it to copy Thick Fat from your Seel. That's why your Ice-type moves don't pose a real threat."

"Oh, so that's it," Daisy said, realizing. "So Ralts copied Seel's Thick Fat at the start of the battle?"

Kai nodded, and Daisy chuckled. "What a rare ability it caught me off guard. But I'm not giving up just yet!"

"Seel, use Aqua Jet!"

Kai quickly commanded, "Ralts, use Magical Leaf!"

Before Ralts, shimmering leaves materialized, rotating and condensing before launching continuously toward Seel.

The leaves collided with the incoming Aqua Jet, resulting in a burst of energy.

When the fog lifted, it was clear that the Magical Leaf had not only neutralized Aqua Jet but also injured Seel!

Seel staggered, forced down onto the ice.

Grass-type moves are super effective against Water-type Pokémon!

"Ralts, use Confusion!"

"Seel, retreat to the water!"

This time, however, Ralts anticipated Seel's movements. Concentrating, it lifted Seel into the air with Confusion.

Caught in psychic energy, Seel cried out in pain, struggling in vain against Ralts' hold.

As Ralts raised it higher, it swung Seel toward a nearby rock.

With a resounding crash, Seel hit the rock and fainted.

"We lost."

Daisy retrieved her fainted Seel into its Poké Ball, and she and her sisters approached Kai.

But before Kai could recall Ralts, a glow enveloped it. Moments later, Ralts had evolved into Kirlia!

Lily gasped, covering her mouth. "Wow! It evolved!"

Kirlia now had a graceful, ballerina-like form, wearing what appeared to be a short dress.

Its hair, no longer covering its eyes, framed its face with shoulder-length bangs, revealing its large red eyes.

The two red horns on its head had also shifted, now resembling hairpins.

Kai took out his Pokédex and pointed it at Kirlia.

Pokédex: Beep! Kirlia, the Emotion Pokémon. When the horn on its head heightens its psychic power, it can create a dazzling mirage. Sensitive to its Trainer's feelings, it will dance when the Trainer is happy, drawing strength from their joy.

Kirlia, still adjusting to its new form, did a small twirl before returning to Kai's side.

"Kirlia, you look amazing."

"kiii-rii-ya"

Kirlia looked up at Kai, a bit shy. When Kai patted its head, it nuzzled his hand affectionately.

Just then, Daisy approached, holding a blue badge in her hand.

"This is for you, as a reward for your victory."

Kai smiled, thanked her, and placed the Cascade Badge into his badge case.

Looking at the lone badge in Kai's case, Lily pouted. "So we're the first Gym Leaders he's defeated. That's kind of disappointing!"

Kai smiled but remained silent. The sisters seemed more focused on their water ballet than training Pokémon for battles.

Among the many Gyms, their strength was known to be relatively weak.

Everyone has their own dreams, though. Kai hoped that someday Misty would take charge of the Gym.

As Kai left the Gym with his Pokémon, he waved goodbye. Not long after he exited, a red-haired girl with a side ponytail walked in.

"Sisters, I've been looking all over for you! What's going on? Why do you all look so down?"

Daisy sighed dramatically. "Misty, we were emotionally devastated by a guy just now!"

"Devastated?" Misty raised an eyebrow, puzzled. As she listened to Daisy explain, she burst out laughing. "Oh, you mean you lost the battle? For a second, I thought one of you got dumped!"

Daisy considered this and giggled. "Well, he was gentle and powerful. Honestly, he'd make a pretty good boyfriend."

Misty rolled her eyes. "I can't believe you guys. If I'd been here, there's no way he would have taken that Cascade Badge so easily!"

Violet wagged her finger at Misty. "Don't underestimate him, Misty. That guy with the Kirlia was really strong. I doubt even you could have won."

"Don't count me out!" Misty huffed, indignant. "I'm going on a journey soon, and I won't return until I've become a top Trainer!"

----

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter Text

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In the distant sea off Cerulean City, a fishing boat drifted slowly along the waves.

With the sea breeze blowing, Kai and his three Pokémon leaned back on the deck, savouring a rare moment of relaxation.

Eevee: "Eee...vee!" (I wonder what's beyond this ocean!)

Bulbasaur: "Bulba...saur!" (You always want to explore, don't you?)

Eevee: "Vee...vee!" (Don't you? There could be whole new islands out there!)

Bulbasaur: "Bulba! Bulba!" (I think I'm good right here on the shore!)

Eevee: "Eee...!" (But what if there's even better sun on another beach?)

Bulbasaur: "Saurrr..." (Hmm, maybe... but I'm still cozy right here!)

Eevee: "Vee-vee!" (One day, let's go across the waves together!)

Bulbasaur: "Bulba-saur!" (Alright, one day!)

Meanwhile Kirlia was gazing towards Kia.

The warm sunshine poured down, making everyone feel so content they didn't want to move.

Unfortunately, the strong fishy smell on the boat marred what would have otherwise been a perfect, peaceful trip.

After more than an hour of sailing, the fishing boat finally stopped at the edge of a small island.

The rugged captain, face weathered from years at sea, stepped out of the cabin and said to Kai, "Brother, this is the place you were looking for. We're heading further south into the deep sea. When we return tonight, we'll come by to pick you up. Best of luck out there!"

"Thank you!" Kai called, hopping off the fishing boat and watching as it sailed away. Then, he turned to examine the small island.

This island was lush and green, encircled by trees, with a solitary mountain at its centre.

Dense shrubs grew in neat rows along the mountain, giving it the appearance of a massive turtle shell from afar.

This was Blastoise Island a place uncharted on most maps, known only to the Pokémon residing here and the most seasoned of fishermen who could navigate to it.

True to its name, the island was home to a Blastoise and a colony of its pre-evolved forms Wartortle and Squirtle.

Kai had searched long and hard at the docks and asked many locals before someone finally agreed to ferry him to this elusive island.

However, his real target wasn't Blastoise; he didn't have a death wish.

Crossing the beach and entering the forest, Kai soon spotted a group of playful Squirtle and Wartortle.

He took out his phone, snapping a few photos of the area. He wanted to send them to Professor Cerise, but with no cell signal, he had to give up for now.

After observing the group for a while, Kai stepped forward to approach them.

"Squirtle, Squirtle!"(this human is weirdo)

"Wartortle… Wartortle!"(should we call the boss [Blastoise] )

The Squirtle and Wartortle were startled by Kai's sudden appearance, but they didn't flee. Instead, they stood still, looking at him curiously.

"Perfect," Kai said, addressing them. "Pokémon, I'm gathering teammates to challenge the Pokémon League. Does anyone here want to leave and travel the world with me?"

In this magical world, most Pokémon could understand at least some human language.

Hearing Kai's invitation, the Squirtle and Wartortle exchanged glances but showed no immediate interest.

"Squirtle!" (weak)

"War-tor-tle… Wartortle!!" (Baby Squirtles are Stronger than you)

Only one Squirtle, perhaps mischievous or curious about Kai, stepped forward.

"Squirtle, Squirtle!" ( let's test you )

"Brave one, aren't you?" Kai smiled. "All right, let's battle! If I win, you'll be my partner!"

The other Squirtle and Wartortle made way as Kai readied himself.

He pulled out his Pokédex and pointed it at the blue Pokémon standing before him.

The Pokédex chimed: "Squirtle, the Tiny Turtle Pokémon. A Water type. Squirtle's strong shell protects it from attacks. It sprays water at opponents as a powerful counterattack."

Raising his hand, Kai called, "Bulbasaur, it's your turn!"

"Bulba, Bulba!" Bulbasaur stepped forward, facing Squirtle.

With the Pokémon ready, Kai gave his command: "Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip!"

Two vines shot out from Bulbasaur's bulb, striking towards Squirtle.

Calmly, Squirtle pulled its head and limbs into its shell just as the Vine Whip closed in.

There were two light snaps as the vines struck Squirtle's solid shell, resulting in only minor damage.

Emerging from its shell, Squirtle retaliated with a Water Gun, sending a stream of water towards Bulbasaur.

"Bulbasaur, dodge it!"

Kai's command came in time, but as Bulbasaur dodged, it still got partially drenched by the Water Gun.

"Bulbasaur, use Leech Seed!"

A seed shot from Bulbasaur's bulb, but just as it neared, Squirtle countered with a series of bubbles, nullifying the attack.

Kai grinned. "You've got some impressive instincts for a wild Squirtle."

"Squirtle, Squirtle!"

Kai pointed ahead, commanding, "Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip again!"

The vines shot toward Squirtle once more, and just like before, Squirtle withdrew into its shell.

But this time, Kai was ready. "Bulbasaur, wrap it up and hold it tight!"

Instead of retracting, the vines coiled around Squirtle's shell, tightening with each loop.

"Squirtle?!"

Squirtle, surprised, tried to poke its head out, but all exits were blocked. It squirmed but couldn't break free.

"This is called getting caught in your own trap," Kai chuckled. "Bulbasaur, lift it and give it a taste of the pendulum!"

Following Kai's command, Bulbasaur hoisted Squirtle up with its vines, then swung it down hard onto the ground, repeating the move a few times.

When there was no movement from inside the shell, Kai motioned for Bulbasaur to release its hold.

Seeing that Squirtle was motionless, Kai threw a Poké Ball.

In a flash of red light, the capture was successful, the ball barely shaking.

Kai had caught his fourth Pokémon!

But his celebration was cut short by a distant roar, and the ground began to shake. From the sound of it, a powerful Pokémon was approaching.

"Blaaah-stoise!!!!!!" A deep, confident cry, indicating attention and readiness.

It seemed the battle had attracted the attention of the Blastoise guarding the island.

Kai knew he'd have to hide until the fishing boat returned to retrieve him.

"Bulbasaur, return! Let's move before things get too dangerous!"

…

As the sun set and rose again, Kai found himself back on the mainland, standing on the streets of Cerulean City.

After a night of rest and recovery at the Pokémon Center, Kai, along with his four Pokémon, was ready to head out toward Pewter City.

In his spare time, he sent the photos from Blastoise Island to Professor Cerise.

As a special field researcher for the Cerise Laboratory, his trip to Blastoise Island had allowed him to document its unique ecology, fulfilling his research duties perfectly.

But just as he was about to leave Cerulean City, a tall boy with green hair and a backpack stepped in front of him.

"Hey, you there! Wait up! Would you be interested in a battle?"

----

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!

Chapter Text

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Kai turned to him. "Are you challenging me?"

"That's right." The boy adjusted his jacket and smiled confidently. "My name is A.J., known as the 'Beast Trainer.' Since I started training, I've never lost. So, are you up for a battle?"

A.J., the Beast Trainer? Kai thought, glancing down at the Sandshrew by A.J.'s side with a look of understanding.

"I'm in," Kai replied, looking around. "But where will we battle? There's no proper field around here."

Thanks to the popularity of Pokémon battles, much like open-air basketball courts in the old world, simple arenas can often be found in parks, schools, riversides, and streets around the city.

Unfortunately, where they stood now was quite a ways from any public battle spot.

A.J. pointed toward Vermilion City. "I've set up a personal training arena in a nearby field. It has a battle zone. Follow me."

The two left Cerulean City together, and after about ten minutes, they arrived at a basic camp surrounded by fences and tents.

Outside the camp stood a large sign reading:

Unofficial Pokémon League Gym - 92 Consecutive Wins.

Seeing A.J.'s confident expression and the bold statement on the sign, it was clear he was indeed a capable and determined trainer. And he enjoyed attracting attention.

But his stocky build, thick eyebrows, and serious expression gave him a somewhat comical appearance after a moment of observation.

Noticing Kai eyeing the sign, A.J. grinned. "My goal is to reach a 100-win streak. Once I do, I'll start challenging official gyms to earn badges."

Inside the camp, they reached A.J.'s personal gym. Through the open tent flap, Kai could see a few Pokémon training.

A Butterfree and Beedrill clashed in midair, honing their combat skills, while three Rattata on the ground wore weighted harnesses, likely practising their endurance.

"Well? Impressive, right?" A.J. said, stepping into the trainer's command area. "If I win this battle, that'll be 93 victories in a row!"

"That's something to celebrate," Kai replied, taking his position across the field. "You do look like a formidable opponent, but I should warn you I haven't lost a match since I began my journey."

They stood on a hard-packed dirt field, rough but resilient, a common type of battlefield for outdoor trainers.

"Really? Well, looks like one of us is due for a loss today!" A.J. chuckled, spreading his hands. "The rules are simple: we each use one Pokémon. Whoever's left standing wins."

Kai nodded. "Got it."

With a flourish, A.J. cracked a whip forward. "Sandshrew, show them our strength!"

Obeying, the Sandshrew trotted confidently to the centre of the field.

On closer inspection, this ground type looked quite different from a typical pangolin, with an earthy yellow, brick-like hide that gave it a distinctive, armoured look.

Kai pulled out his Pokédex and scanned it.

Pokédex: "Sandshrew, the Mouse Pokémon. Ground type. Dislikes water and digs deep burrows in dry locations. When threatened, it curls into a ball to defend itself."

Considering type advantages, Kai thought both Bulbasaur's Grass-type and Squirtle's Water-type moves were effective against Ground types.

But Kai remembered that A.J.'s Sandshrew had defeated Ash and Team Rocket's Pokémon before, so he didn't underestimate it.

After careful thought, he sent out his ace Pokémon Kirlia.

Seeing the elegant, humanoid Kirlia, A.J. looked surprised. "That's a rare Pokémon, but no matter. The result will be the same! Sandshrew, use Rollout!"

Sandshrew dropped to all fours, quickly built up speed, curled into a ball, and charged at Kirlia in a rolling attack.

"Kirlia, use Double Team!"

In an instant, multiple illusions of Kirlia appeared, confusing Sandshrew.

Too fast to stop, Sandshrew rolled past its target and through a clone, only to realize it had hit an illusion.

"Kirlia, use Confusion!"

"kiii-rii-ya"

Kirlia raised its hand, and a psychic aura enveloped Sandshrew, lifting it into the air.

In response, Sandshrew instinctively curled up, shielding itself with its hardened scales, and as it was released, it tumbled to the ground, getting back up with minimal injury.

"Impressive," Kai praised. "You trained Sandshrew well it knows how to minimize damage by using Defense Curl."

A.J. smirked. "This Is nothing! My Sandshrew has trained rigorously & even conquered its weakness to Water moves!"

"Really?" Kai replied, eyebrows raised. "Overcoming its weakness to Water attacks? That's impressive!"

Kai has already noticed two key aspects of A.J.'s battle strategy. Firstly, his Sandshrew was particularly strong.

Secondly, the two had developed a unique communication system. A.J. would simply crack his whip, and Sandshrew would instantly understand his commands without verbal cues, allowing them to adapt quickly and execute surprising moves.

These strengths had undoubtedly fueled their past success, achieving over 90 consecutive victories.

But now, facing Kai and his Kirlia, they had met their match.

Kai and Kirlia shared a similar understanding. Thanks to the red horns on its head, Kirlia could sense Kai's emotions, and as a psychic type, it could even pick up on hints of his thoughts.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!"

Kirlia gathered shimmering green leaves in her hands, launching them toward the Sandshrew in a rapid, unerring stream.

Seeing this, A.J. cracked his whip softly, and the Sandshrew responded instantly, burrowing into the ground at high speed to evade the attack.

Left without a target, Kirlia stood on alert, watching the ground beneath her with caution.

After a tense pause, a hole suddenly opened up next to her. Without warning, Sandshrew burst out, diving at Kirlia with surprising speed.

But Kirlia, prepared for a sudden attack, used Teleport to evade just as the ground broke open.

"Think that's it?" A.J. taunted, flicking his whip with a shout, "Sandshrew, use Earthquake!"

Sandshrew leapt high, glowing with a fierce, earthen light as it spun and smashed into the ground with a massive impact.

The earth quaked and fissured, splitting the battlefield into a web of cracks, spreading out from where Sandshrew struck.

Earthquake is a powerful Ground-type move that could knock out nearly any Pokémon caught in its reach.

"Kirlia! Use teleport!" Kai shouted urgently.

Kirlia rapidly used Teleport again and again, blinking across the battlefield, dodging crack after crack until she managed to reach a safe corner, clearly exhausted but unharmed.

"What!!" A.J. looked at Kirlia In shock. Earthquake, while difficult to land accurately, had rarely failed to connect in his previous matches.

Meanwhile, Kai breathed a sigh of relief as Kirlia found safe ground.

Seeing that Sandshrew was momentarily worn out from the powerful attack, Kai took his chance: "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!"

With a sweep of her hands, Kirlia sent another wave of green-glowing leaves flying toward Sandshrew. This time, the Grass-type attack struck directly.

Grass beats Ground the effect was clear!

The Sandshrew staggered, trying to stand, before finally falling.

"Sandshrew!"

A.J. ran to his Pokémon, eyes wide with disbelief. He'd won 92 consecutive matches, and he'd been so close to reaching his goal of 100 victories just eight more to go.

As Kai took in his victory, he approached A.J., clapping. "That was an amazing battle. Your Sandshrew is one of the toughest opponents I've ever faced."

A.J. recalled his Sandshrew, looking disappointed but determined. "I lost… but your Kirlia is strong. I'll get back up, train harder, and when I reach my goal, I'll challenge you again!"

Kai extended his hand with a warm smile. "I look forward to it. It's trainers like you that make me want to keep getting better."

After their parting, Kai planned to head toward Pewter City to challenge the Pewter Gym.

But then a call from Professor Cerise summoned him back to Vermilion City.

At the Cerise Research Institute, Professor Cerise greeted him with a smile. "I'm sorry to call you back on such short notice, but I have a favour to ask."

Kai nodded. "Of course, Professor. What do you need?"

Professor Cerise handed him a small, securely packed box. "Inside is a prototype for a precision instrument. It's still in development and needs to be delivered to Professor Oak in Pallet Town. Because of its sensitivity, we can't ship it, and we're too busy with research here to make the trip ourselves. Can you help us out?"

Kai nodded. "Absolutely. As a field researcher, I'll make sure it arrives safely!"

Leaving Vermilion City, Kai travelled swiftly, bypassing the Viridian Forest, and by nightfall, he arrived in Viridian City.

Since it was late, he decided to spend the night at the local Pokémon Center, planning to set out for Pallet Town first thing in the morning.

Before settling in, he stopped by a nearby shop to restock some supplies, just in case.

While paying, his phone rang. Kai glanced down at the caller ID Chloe.

"Hey, Chloe," he answered.

On the other end, Chloe's voice was bright. "Didn't you say you'd be back in Vermilion today? I wanted to see Kirlia's new look she must be even more beautiful now!"

Kai chuckled, glancing at the time. "I'm actually in Viridian City now. I had to head straight here after visiting the professor's lab. But hey, it's late you should get some rest."

After hanging up, Kai was about to leave the shop when the clerk suddenly spoke up.

"Excuse me, young man," the clerk said, waving him over.

Kai paused, turning back. "Yes?"

The clerk pulled out a package from under the counter, looking relieved. "I couldn't help but overhear… Are you heading to Professor Oak's lab in Pallet Town?"

Kai nodded, surprised. "That's right."

The clerk smiled gratefully. "Wonderful! Professor Oak ordered this package a few days ago, but we've been swamped and haven't had a chance to deliver it. Could you take it along?"

----

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Chapter Text

----

The Oak Research Lab is located in Pallet Town, a beautiful and tranquil place.

In the afternoon, when Kai knocked on the door of the Oak Lab, Professor Oak, a kind old man with short grey hair who occasionally hummed the Pokémon Theme, greeted him with a warm and generous smile.

"Professor Oak, sorry to bother you," Kai introduced himself. "I'm Kai from the Cerise Research Institute in Vermilion City. Professor Cerise asked me to deliver something to you."

Professor Oak nodded, "Professor Cerise mentioned you'd be coming, though I didn't expect you to travel from Vermilion City in just two days. That's quite fast!"

"I couldn't delay Professor Cerise's request," Kai replied, handing the box containing the prototype to Professor Oak, followed by a package from the Viridian City store that he pulled from his backpack.

Professor Oak looked at the package happily. "You brought this as well? That's a huge help! Tomorrow is the day a new group of trainers departs I was starting to worry about how we'd be ready."

Kai responded casually, "This time of year must be busy for you, Professor. It sounds like hard work."

"That's right. You know, you're getting older when it feels harder every year," Professor Oak laughed, spreading his hands. "But this year, my grandson, who has quite the independent streak, will be starting his journey. I'm excited to see who he'll become."

Kai's curiosity was piqued. "Would that be Gary?"

"Oh?" Professor Oak asked in surprise. "You know Gary?"

"Not personally," Kai said, waving his hands. "I just heard Professor Cerise mention him once."

Despite playing it cool, Kai couldn't help feeling a thrill. So Gary was heading out on his journey tomorrow? Could that mean Ash, his peer, would also be starting his adventure with Pikachu?

Looking forward to meeting them, Kai decided it was time to go. Declining Professor Oak's invitation for lunch, he headed toward Pewter City once more.

After passing through Viridian City, Kai chose to explore the Viridian Forest this time since he wasn't in such a hurry.

Viridian Forest, located between Viridian City and Pewter City, is a dense maze of trees, creating a natural labyrinth.

Even with a map, countless people get lost each year in its massive and winding paths.

The forest is home to many Bug- and Flying-type Pokémon, earning it the reputation as a "Bug Catcher's Paradise."

Once inside, Kai wandered based on his instincts, defeating many wild Pokémon that ambushed him.

He encountered Pidgeotto and Butterfree, both of which he once admired. But after some hesitation, he decided not to catch them.

His four Pokémon trained hard in the forest, each showing progress in their way.

After a long while, the bushes ahead started rustling. Kai braced himself, thinking it was another wild Pokémon when a young trainer dressed in warrior-like armour with a net and a sheathed sword leapt from the bushes.

"Aw, I was hoping it'd be a rare Pokémon," the young samurai said, looking at Kai's Pokémon, "But since it's you, how about a battle?"

"Uh, that's pretty direct," Kai replied, surprised.

"Of course! As Pokémon trainers, our eyes meeting is the signal to battle!" declared the samurai, releasing a Poké Ball without waiting for Kai's agreement. "Come out, Pinsir!"

The Poké Ball opened, revealing a fierce-looking Bug-type Pokémon with huge horns.

Kai took out his Pokédex to scan it:

Pokédex: "Pinsir, the Stag Beetle Pokémon. Its type is Bug. Pinsir's two powerful horns never let go once they grab hold, tearing apart anything in their grasp."

Sighing, Kai looked at his Pokémon and said, "Squirtle, this one's yours."

Between the Grass-type Bulbasaur and Psychic-type Kirlia, both would be at a disadvantage against the Bug-type Pinsir.

Eevee and Squirtle had neutral matchups with Pinsir, so he chose Squirtle.

"Squirtle, squirt!" Squirtle hopped forward, eyes gleaming with fighting spirit.

But just when Kai anticipated a close match, Squirtle won with a few quick moves, handling Pinsir with ease.

"What!?" The samurai couldn't believe it. "My Pinsir lost so fast?"

"It's simple," Kai replied with a smirk. "Your Pinsir's level isn't high enough yet. If you get the chance, you should train it more."

The samurai turned red with embarrassment and clenched his fists. "Fine! I'm not done yet! Go, Caterpie!"

A red light flashed as the samurai released his second Pokémon, a Caterpie.

Ah, so it's just a bug larva, Kai thought with a grin. Without switching Pokémon, he let Squirtle battle on, and it defeated Caterpie just as easily.

With the battle over, Kai was about to leave when he stopped, turning back to the samurai. "By the way, I came from Pallet Town. If you want to improve, train hard, and you might even challenge the rookie trainers coming after me."

"Pallet Town? Rookie trainers?" the samurai repeated.

"That's right," Kai said with a proud smile. "Trainers from Pallet Town are strong. No matter who you face, you won't have an easy time."

"Don't be so cocky!" the samurai shouted at Kai's fading figure, clenching his fists with determination. "Remember this! No matter how strong your Pallet Town trainers are, next time, I'll make you eat those words!"

"Dude, I am not even from Pallet Town; it's just that everything there is strong or stronger", Kai murmured to himself.

---

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Chapter Text

---

Northwest of Pewter City, near a mysterious, unnamed volcano.

Since leaving Viridian Forest, Kai had spent two long days exploring the vast area around this volcano.

His goal was initially to challenge the Pewter Gym, but when he overheard that there was a group of Charmander in the area, he changed his plans, making it his priority to track one down and capture it.

This urgency wasn't driven solely by Charmander's renowned final evolution, Charizard, known for its impressive power.

For Kai, Charmander's cool appearance and fiery nature had captivated him since his past life. To him, catching one felt like a calling.

However, after scouring half the volcano's slopes, he had only come across a few Diglett, Zubat, Geodude, and Cubone.

"F*ck, my luck" Kai cursed in frustration.

Frustration was beginning to set in no sign of Charmander anywhere.

As dusk fell and darkness crept over the land, Kai reluctantly set down his backpack, preparing to camp for the night.

But just as he started to unpack, Eevee, whom he had sent ahead to scout, came rushing back with an urgent expression.

"Eee...vee!" (I found Charmanders)

Seeing Kai, Eevee dashed up to him, vocalizing in an anxious tone.

Though he couldn't understand Eevee's exact words, Kai's heart raced as he recalled the mission he had given it.

"You found Charmander!?" he asked, excitement lacing his voice.

"Vee-vee!" (Follow me)

Eevee nodded vigorously, turning to lead the way, gesturing for Kai to follow.

Without a moment's hesitation, Kai grabbed his backpack and followed Eevee, crossing a rocky field.

Finally, he noticed a cluster of faint lights flickering in a narrow mountain crevice up ahead.

These lights, glowing against the evening shadows, immediately stood out.

As he moved closer, Kai could make out a gathering of Charmander and Charmeleon, their tails aglow with fire.

Looking up, he could even see a few charizards gliding in the sky; wings stretched wide against the night.

The glowing flames on their tails, the flames of life, were visible even from a distance.

"Char! Char-man-der!"(my father is flying with your mother) a young Charmander taunted a Charmander beside him.

"Char...?"(What?) Charmander, who got taunted, was confused.

"Chaar-MAN-DER!"(are you dumb or too innocent) Now the young Charmander was confused.

After hours of searching, Kai had finally found a whole group of Charmander!

"Chaaar-IZARD!!!!!" Charizard alerted others with a powerful, bellowing roar.

But capturing one would be tricky. He couldn't simply walk in and challenge a Charmander, not with Charmeleon and Charizard on high alert to protect their own.

While Charmander itself was known for its comparatively gentle nature, Charmeleon and Charizard were notorious for their fierce tempers and protective instincts.

Lying low within a patch of dense foliage, Kai observed the group carefully.

Then, glancing at his backpack, a strategy began forming in his mind.

He quietly opened his backpack, pulled out a flashlight, and covered the lens with a few strips of tape, leaving only a small, circular opening to create a narrow beam.

He then retrieved a can of Pokémon rations, opened it and placed it behind a large, concealing boulder nearby.

After setting up his bait, he gestured to his Pokémon to hide around him.

"We don't have time for a formal battle strategy this time," Kai whispered. "When I lure a Charmander over, everyone attacks together. Let's finish quickly before any Charizard takes notice. Understood?"

"Squirtle! Squirtle!" responded his Pokémon, nodding confidently.

Satisfied, Kai returned to his hiding spot and began watching the Charmander group closely.

Charmander resembled a small carnivorous dinosaur with a sleek, orange body, cream-coloured underside, and, of course, its iconic tail flame.

This flame was more than a physical trait; it was a gauge of Charmander's health and emotional state.

A bright, vigorous flame meant it was healthy and energetic, while a dim flame hinted at fatigue or low spirits.

According to legend, if a Charmander's tail flame ever went out, it would signify the end of its life.

However, as long as it was healthy, even heavy rain couldn't extinguish that flame.

Male Charmander: shy but trying to be confident "Char... Char-man-der! (Hey there! I noticed your flame burns bright!)"

Female Charmander: giggling softly "Charrr... charmander! (Oh, really? Yours is pretty bright, too!)"

Male Charmander: blushing "Char-man-der, char! (Aw, thanks! I, um… I've been practising my Flamethrower, you know. It's pretty impressive!)"

Female Charmander: playfully "Char-man-der! (Oh, is that so? Maybe I'll have to see it sometime!)"

Male Charmander: getting bolder. "Char-man-der, Charmander! (Only if I get to see yours, too!)"

Female Charmander: flicks her tail playfully "Charrrr, charmander! (Maybe I'll show you… if you can keep up!)"

Male Charmander: grinning "Char! Char-man-der! (Challenge accepted!)"

Female Charmander: smiling warmly "Charrrr, charmander... (Well, I'll be looking forward to it...)"

Male Charmander: blushing deeper "Char... charmander... (Me too...)"

At that moment, the Charmanders were still playfully interacting with one another, completely oblivious to Kai's presence.

After watching for a while, he noticed one Charmander that stood out.

Though it was playing with its companions, this Charmander had an energetic and slightly clumsy nature, often using more force than necessary.

This behaviour seemed to annoy its friends, who would scold it with playful nudges.

Kai couldn't help but smirk. Alright, you're the one.

Carefully aiming the flashlight at the Charmander, he switched it on, directing a focused beam toward it while keeping the light subtle enough to avoid alerting the rest of the group.

At first, the Charmander simply blinked, turning its head away to ignore the beam. But as the light persisted, following its face, it grew curious.

A puzzled expression crossed its face as Charmander glanced around and, unable to ignore the strange light, began moving cautiously in Kai's direction.

Seeing it take the bait, Kai slowly backed up, moving behind the large boulder.

Charmander soon arrived, only to find the light had vanished. In its place was a strange but invitingly fragrant food item in the open.

Charmander sniffed the air, taking a few tentative steps forward.

Suddenly, in a coordinated strike, Kai's Pokémon sprang from their hiding spots and attacked simultaneously.

Caught off guard, Charmander was hit by a Water Gun, Confusion, Vine Whip, and a Tackle, leaving it stunned and collapsing to the ground, its vision fading to black as it lost consciousness.

"Perfect!" Kai whispered, exhilarated.

With Charmander down, Kai leapt from behind the boulder, pulled out a Poké Ball, and tossed it over.

A flash of red light enveloped Charmander, and the capture was completed without even a single shake.

Squirtle watched, momentarily dazed. It had a strange sense of déjà vu as if it had seen this scene play out before.

"What are you waiting for?" Kai chuckled, playfully tapping Squirtle's head. His grin, bright even in the dark, was infectious. "We caught it. Before the others realize, let's get out of here!"

Late that night, at the Pokémon Center in Pewter City.

In the quiet dining area, Kai lounged on a chair with his feet propped up, sipping vegetable juice with a relaxed smile.

Today had marked a milestone: he had finally gathered all three of Kanto's starter Pokémon!

Nearby, his five Pokémon ate contentedly, while Charmander, newly captured, looked around the unfamiliar setting with a dazed expression.

"Char...?"(where am I?) Charmander, who got kidnapped was visibly confused.

Its memory of the recent events was fragmented as if waking from a strange dream to find the world had changed around it.

How did I get here?

Why is this human my trainer now?

And who are these other Pokémon?

I had a date!!

Noticing its confusion, Kai pushed some food toward Charmander with a warm smile.

"Eat up! Still feeling a bit out of sorts? Don't worry; you'll settle in soon enough."

-----

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Chapter Text

---

In the early morning, after a night's rest, Kai was full of energy and was about to leave the Pokémon Center when he noticed a boy with a Pikachu and an orange-haired girl arguing in front of a poster on the wall in the lobby.

The boy wore a cap, a T-shirt, and a blue jacket. Despite looking a bit silly, he was energetic, with a lively expression brimming with enthusiasm.

The orange-haired girl had a side ponytail and a beautiful appearance. She wore shorts and a close-fitting yellow tank top that revealed her midriff, along with a pair of white, delicate arms and long, slender legs. She looked youthful and exuded vitality.

With just one glance, Kai recognized who they were.

Isn't that Ash and Misty?

And the yellow mouse next to Ash isn't that the legendary Pikachu?

Seeing the two of them with backpacks and looking travel-worn, Kai couldn't help but think to himself, I didn't expect to run into them so soon. They've already arrived in Pewter City!

He overheard Misty pointing to the poster as she said, "Challenging the Pokémon League isn't as simple as you think. You need to defeat at least eight Gym Leaders and earn their badges to qualify for the League Conference."

"That's nothing I can't handle," Ash replied confidently, with the bravado of someone who doesn't know the challenges ahead. "I'm going to challenge the Pewter Gym soon, and you'll see our true strength!"

Misty: "Ash, are you sure you're ready for the first Gym? You only just started your journey! Gym battles aren't like the battles you've had with wild Pokémon."

Ash: "I know that, Misty! But I've already got Pikachu, and we've trained together. How hard can one Gym be?"

Misty: "Ash, the first Gym Leader specializes in Rock-types, and your Pikachu doesn't have the advantage. Rock types are strong against Electric moves. You need a better plan."

Ash: "Pikachu and I are strong together, type advantage or not. I can just push through! I'll figure something out when I'm there."

Misty: (shaking her head) "That's exactly the problem, Ash. You can't just go in hoping things will work out. The Gym Leaders are tough, and they know their Pokémon inside out."

Ash: "So what, I'm supposed to just skip it? I'll never be a Pokémon Master if I avoid every challenge just because it's hard."

Misty: "I'm not saying to skip it! I'm saying be prepared. Maybe catch another Pokémons first. Think about your team, not just charging ahead with Pikachu."

Ash: "If I start worrying about every battle before it happens, I'll never get anywhere! I'm taking on the Gym my way."

Hearing their conversation, Kai couldn't resist stepping forward and interrupting.

"Are you Ash?"

Ash turned, realizing the voice came from a young man he didn't know.

"Yeah, that's me! And who are you?"

Looking at him, Kai replied, "My name is Kai. When I was in Pallet Town a few days ago, I overheard Professor Oak talking about you. I didn't expect to meet you here today."

"Oh, so you know Professor Oak too?" Ash said with a smile. "This is my partner, Pikachu, and she—"

Before he could finish, Misty interjected, "I'm Misty, the most beautiful girl in the world!"

The most beautiful girl in the world?

Kai glanced at Misty's appearance. She was indeed attractive, but her features were still youthful.

It seemed she still had a long way to go to become "the most beautiful girl in the world." her sisters are more attractive.

Misty, meanwhile, was observing Kai, noting his handsome appearance and the Kirlia at his side. Suddenly, she remembered something.

"So, you're the trainer with the Kirlia who defeated my sister?"

Kai faked surprise and asked, "Oh? Who is your sister?"

But Misty fell silent, clearly reluctant to reveal she was from Cerulean Gym.

At that moment, a middle-aged man with a red cap and a large beard approached them.

"Are you here to challenge Brock, the Pewter Gym Leader?"

Ash nodded confidently. "Of course! As soon as we leave the Pokémon Center, I'm heading to the Pewter Gym to take him on!"

Upon hearing Ash's words, the man burst into laughter.

"Haha! Just you?"

His tone sounded mocking. Before Ash could respond, the man laughed again and walked out.

As the man left the Pokémon Center, Kai couldn't help but ask, "Who was that guy? Why does it seem like he doesn't take you seriously?"

Misty explained, "That's Flint. We met him when we arrived in town. He sells stones around here."

Flint? The stone seller?

Kai paused, realizing that Flint was Brock's long-absent father.

Watching the man leave, Ash said indignantly, "Hmph, he's underestimating me! Fine, I'll head to the Gym and show him I can beat Brock!"

"What a coincidence," Kai said with a smile. "I'm also planning to challenge the Pewter Gym. Why don't we go together?"

Pewter City, named after its stone-grey colour, is known for its abundance of rocks and fossils but not much else.

It's a quiet, small city in the northern region, surrounded by mountains and farmland.

A wide river divides the city, with the Pewter Gym located in the northwest.

Nearby, across the street, is another of the city's landmarks the Pewter Museum of Science.

The group made their way to the Pewter Gym.

From afar, the Gym appeared to be made of layers of massive boulders reinforced with steel.

But up close, they realized that the stones were merely a façade thin slabs decorated as doors.

Behind this façade, the actual structure of the Pewter Gym looked more like an ordinary warehouse.

"What?" Misty murmured. "I thought the whole Gym was made of solid stone, but only the front is real stone!"

Pushing open the Gym's doors, the inside was dim, even in daylight.

Kai and the others filed in, and as they reached the centre of the Gym, a spotlight switched on, illuminating a corner where a man in a green vest sat cross-legged.

"Who are you?"

The man's voice was steady, with a calm and authoritative tone.

"Are you Brock, the Gym Leader?" Ash asked. "I'm Ash from Pallet Town, here to challenge you!"

Kai added, "I'm Kai, also here to challenge the Gym."

"As the Gym Leader, I don't mind how many people challenge me," Brock said as he stood, his tone composed. "However, each match will be two Pokémon each. Which one of you would like to go first?"

It was only at this point that Kai got a clear look at Brock's appearance. His hair was spiky, his face prematurely stern, and his eyes perpetually squinted, making it hard to tell if they were open or closed.

Ash, brimming with excitement, stepped forward. "I'll go first. Bring it on!"

Seeing Ash's eagerness, Kai chose to stand back and took a seat in the stands.

"Good luck, Ash!" Misty called out, joining Kai in the audience.

Brock snapped his fingers, and instantly, the Gym's lights switched on, illuminating every corner.

From beneath the stands, the warehouse doors opened, and two rocky battlefields emerged and locked into place, forming a single large arena.

As a Rock and Ground-type specialist, Brock's Gym naturally had a rock-strewn terrain.

Seeing Ash take his place with Pikachu on the field, Brock leapt to the other side of the arena, ready to battle.

Ash pointed forward and shouted, "Go, Pikachu!"

"You're inexperienced," Brock said, smiling. He tossed a Poké Ball into the air. "Come out, Onix!"

----

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Chapter Text

---

As soon as the massive Onix emerged, Pikachu was startled by its huge body and the cold, disdainful look it gave the small Pokémon.

"Pika! Pika! (I am out of this sh*t)" Pikachu exclaimed, trotting back to Ash, tugging on his jacket, and trying to press the buttons on Ash's other Poké Balls, hoping to swap itself out for another Pokémon!

"Hey, hey!" Ash picked up Pikachu with an exasperated expression. "Pikachu! Don't try to switch out with Pidgeotto on your own get back out there and battle!"

With Ash's encouragement, Pikachu reluctantly returned to the battlefield.

"Pika! Pi.."

The Electric-type hit the ground, preparing itself…

In the stands, Kai chuckled softly. He knew Ash didn't fully grasp type matchups yet and often relied on sheer creativity to win battles.

This could be both Ash's weakness and his strength. It was this unpredictability that sometimes let him defeat powerful foes.

But for now, his lack of experience was obvious.

Shaking his head, his Pokédex fetish started to work on him Kai pulled out his Pokédex and pointed it at Pikachu.

The Pokédex spoke: "Pikachu, the Mouse Pokémon. An Electric type. Its cheeks contain electric sacs that store electricity. When it gets angry, it unleashes a powerful electric shock."

Kai then turned his Pokédex toward Onix.

"Onix, the Rock Snake Pokémon. A Rock- and Ground-type. Its body is made up of boulders that resemble a snake, and it tunnels underground at 50 miles per hour."

As Brock gave the command, the battle began.

"Onix, use Tackle!" Brock called.

In the arena, Onix twisted its massive body and hurled itself head-first toward Pikachu.

Overwhelmed by Onix's intimidating presence, Pikachu darted around in fear, not even trying to counterattack.

Soon, Onix seized the chance and ensnared Pikachu tightly with its tail.

"Good, Onix! Use Bind!"

Seeing Pikachu struggling in Onix's grip, Ash became anxious. "Pikachu, use Thunder Shock!"

"Pikaaa!Chuuuuuuu..!!"

At Ash's command, sparks gathered on Pikachu's cheeks before releasing a powerful jolt of electricity.

But despite Pikachu's effort, the attack seemed ineffective against Onix.

Brock crossed his arms and smirked. "Trying to beat my Onix with an Electric attack? That's a rookie mistake."

"Darn it!" Ash clenched his fists, his frustration mounting.

Seeing Pikachu unable to break free and struggling in pain, Ash finally shouts, "Please, stop! I surrender!"

Brock nodded, and Onix released Pikachu, who slumped to the ground. Ash quickly rushed in to pick him up.

"Are you okay, Pikachu?"

As the battle ended, Kai made his way down from the stands, unsure how to comfort Ash.

But he knew Ash's determined personality he would bounce back soon.

Reaching the trainer's area, Kai said to Brock, "Alright, that was the warm-up. It's my turn now."

Brock recalled Onix and took out another Poké Ball. "You're a different opponent altogether, I see."

"Yes," Kai said, smiling. "Though he's a bit inexperienced now, I believe Ash has the potential to become a great Pokémon Master."

Ash, holding Pikachu, looked back in surprise. This was the first time someone had recognized his potential, and he felt a swell of emotion.

This person… believes in me?

"Go, Geodude!" Brock shouted, releasing the next Pokémon. In a flash of red light, a round rock with muscular arms appeared before Kai.

Ahhh...Pokédex

Kai pointed his Pokédex at it.

"Geodude, the Rock Pokémon. A Rock- and Ground-type. Commonly found in mountainous areas, it often buries itself partially underground, camouflaged as a rock. People frequently trip over it without noticing."

Kai turned his gaze to his own Pokémon choices, eventually deciding, "Bulbasaur, it's your turn!"

"Bulba, Bulba!"

Both Squirtle, a Water-type, and Bulbasaur, a Grass-type, could easily exploit the quadruple weakness of Rock- and Ground-types, so either would make this battle manageable.

In the stands, Misty patted Pikachu and teased Ash. "Unlike you, Kai knows his type matchups well. He's got the makings of a skilled trainer."

Surprisingly, Ash didn't argue back. Instead, he carefully observed Kai's every move, still touched by Kai's earlier encouragement.

As both Bulbasaur and Geodude took their positions, the battle began.

"Geodude, use Tackle!"

Kai commanded, "Bulbasaur, show them our new move Razor Leaf!"

"Bulba!!saur...!!!!"

Before Geodude could get close, sharp leaves glowing with a green hue appeared around Bulbasaur and shot toward Geodude.

"Geodude, dodge it!" Brock ordered.

But Razor Leaf was too fast; it hit Geodude directly, causing a super-effective impact.

After the dust cleared, Geodude was clearly in pain. Brock responded quickly. "Geodude, use Rock Throw!"

Geodude raised its arms, summoning several large rocks that hovered momentarily before hurling them toward Bulbasaur.

The area of attack was wide, and Kai knew Bulbasaur wouldn't dodge in time. He gave a quick command: "Bulbasaur, aim for those rocks with Razor Leaf!"

"Bulba!"

Bulbasaur's leaves shot out, shattering most of the rocks, though a few smaller fragments still struck it. Despite the hits, Bulbasaur stood firmly, unfazed by the pain.

---

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Chapter Text

----

"Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip!"

"Bulba!!"

Bulbasaur shook the dust off its body, stretched out two vines from its bud, and snapped them forward, landing a heavy blow on Geodude.

Geodude took several hits, wincing in pain. Seeing that his Pokémon was struggling, Brock called out quickly, "This isn't going to work, Geodude! Close the distance and use Rollout!"

Geodude pulled in its fists, spun rapidly, transformed into a stone ball, and rolled toward Bulbasaur at high speed.

Trying to close the distance to avoid Bulbasaur's Razor Leaf, huh?

Kai shouted decisively, "Don't let it close in, wrap it with Vine Whip!"

However, Geodude was too fast. After dodging the vines a few times, it managed to hit Bulbasaur.

Unfortunately, since Rollout is a Rock-type move, it only dealt limited damage to Bulbasaur.

As soon as the rolling stopped, Bulbasaur seized the opportunity, lifting Geodude high with Vine Whip and suspending it midair.

"Time to end this! Bulbasaur, use Razor Leaf!"

At close range, the Razor Leaf hit Geodude head-on. This time, Geodude completely lost its fighting ability, falling to the ground as if sinking to the bottom of the sea, motionless.

As he recalled Geodude, Brock's face grew serious, realizing that he couldn't rely on type advantage or brute strength.

"It's clear from the battle that you're a strategic trainer," Brock acknowledged with a nod. "But if you want the Boulder Badge, you'll need to defeat this next Pokémon. Go, Onix!"

"Rrrrhhhhh! Grrruuummmmhh!"

Seeing Onix take the field, Kai recalled Bulbasaur and sent out Squirtle.

"It's up to you, Squirtle!"

"Squirtle, Squirt!"

Perhaps having learned from the previous encounter, Brock wasted no time. "Onix, use Rock Throw!"

Onix raised its massive body and opened its mouth wide. In an instant, numerous large rocks materialized and rained down toward Squirtle.

"Squirtle, withdraw into your shell!"

Following Kai's command, Squirtle quickly pulled its head and limbs inside its shell.

A moment later, a rock crashed down, only to bounce off the sturdy shell.

"Now's our chance!" Brock's eyes flashed. "Onix, use Bind!"

While Squirtle was still in its shell, Onix moved in quickly, wrapped its tail around Squirtle, and squeezed it tightly.

The pressure was so strong that even the shell began to emit a creaking sound.

In the stands, Misty's heart was pounding, and Ash's eyes widened, eager to see how Kai would respond.

In the battle area, Kai remained calm. "Squirtle, use Rapid Spin!"

"Squiiiiirrrrttt-leee!"

Squirtle's shell began vibrating, and then the rotation intensified, colliding with Onix's body. In a burst of force, Squirtle spun free of Onix's grip like a top.

Rapid Spin, a Normal-type physical move, not only dealt damage but allowed Squirtle to escape binding moves and Leech Seed!

As Onix was left briefly stunned, Kai seized the moment. "Squirtle, use Water Gun!"

Brock hesitated just a fraction too long, and by the time he reacted, Onix had already been hit by the Water Gun.

Water is super effective against Rock and ground types!

With a pained roar, Onix struggled. Brock ordered, "Onix, dig underground!"

Who would have expected a giant like Onix to use its head to burrow through the rocks and soil and disappear underground?

The battlefield fell silent as Squirtle kept its eyes sharp, watching for any movement.

Suddenly, the ground beneath Squirtle split open, and Onix lunged up. But Kai was prepared.

He knew that Dig was an ambush move. As Onix emerged at Squirtle's feet, Kai shouted, "Squirtle, use Bubble!"

A stream of bubbles erupted from Squirtle's mouth, quickly surrounding Onix.

The bubbles not only clouded Onix's vision but also dealt continuous Water-type damage.

Kai thrust his hand forward. "Now, let's end this! Squirtle, use Water Gun!"

"Squirt! Squirtle!"

Squirtle looked up at the towering Onix, fearless. It opened its mouth and blasted a powerful Water Gun.

"Rrrruuuhhh...crrrkkkk..."

With a resounding crash, Onix fell to the ground, defeated!

Clap, clap, clap!

The applause filled the gym as Brock recalled his fainted Onix and walked up to Kai, a sincere expression on his face. "You were incredible. I fully accept my defeat."

"Oh, it's nothing," Kai said modestly. "I just had a type advantage. If it were a different Pokémon, it wouldn't have been this easy."

In reality, Brock's strength was not as high as other Gym Leaders. With both parents gone, he had been responsible for his nine younger siblings from a young age, cooking and caring for them, which limited his time for Pokémon training.

Though stronger than most trainers, he wasn't unbeatable.

Brock stepped aside and took out a badge from a box, handing it to Kai.

"This is the Boulder Badge. As a reward for completing the challenge, I present it to you now."

The badge, shaped like a cut diamond, shone brightly even in its dark grey colour.

Finally, the second badge of the Indigo League!

After placing the badge in his badge case, Kai praised his two Pokémon and turned to look for Misty and Ash.

However, he noticed Ash and Pikachu were nowhere to be found, with only Misty waiting for him.

"Huh? Where's Ash?"

Misty shrugged. "He saw how easily you won and seemed a bit down. He ran out without a word and didn't look back. No idea where he went."

Kai chuckled. "Don't worry. Knowing him, he's probably off doing some intense training somewhere. Even if we don't find him now, I'm sure he'll be back soon to challenge this Gym again."

---

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Chapter Text

----

After leaving Pewter City Gym with Misty, Kai pointed to the Pewter Science Museum across the street. "The museum here is quite famous. It's one of the major attractions in Pewter City. What do you think? Want to check it out together?"

"Sure," Misty agreed without hesitation, having nothing else to do.

Crossing the street, the grand structure of the museum came into view.

Upon entering, Kai bought two tickets, and they walked into the first-floor lobby together.

The Pewter Science Museum was divided into two sections: the exhibition area and the research area.

Unfortunately, the research area was not open to the public, leaving visitors restricted to the exhibitions.

The exhibition area spanned two floors. The first floor was dedicated to fossils, displaying rare ancient Pokémon in various glass cases.

The highlights included the skeletal remains of Aerodactyl and Kabutops.

However, Misty didn't seem interested in fossils. She glanced briefly at each display case before quickly moving on.

"I don't get it. Why would anyone want to display these creepy things?"

They proceeded to the second floor, where the theme shifted to space exploration.

Exhibits included historical artefacts, moon meteorites, and even a model of a space shuttle.

As Kai and Misty examined the shuttle model, an elderly man nearby remarked, "It's been decades since humanity first set foot on the moon. Now, they're planning to reach the red planet! News like this, whether true or not, always excites me."

The two smiled politely at the man before continuing their leisurely tour of the museum. Eventually, they left and found a nearby restaurant for lunch.

The restaurant wasn't fancy, but both the appetizers and desserts were surprisingly satisfying.

During their meal, Kai listened to Misty recount her story of meeting Ash and the incident with her bike.

"You should've seen how bad it looked," Misty said, still harbouring resentment. "I'd just bought that bike, and the next thing I knew, Ash and Pikachu had burned it to a crisp!"

"So, until he compensates you, you're sticking with him?" Kai asked.

"That's part of the reason," Misty replied with a sly smile. "But my real goal is to become a Water-type Pokémon Master, and travelling is the best way to achieve that!"

Kai chuckled, offering a few encouraging words. Though he'd seen this story unfold in the anime, hearing it directly from Misty felt strangely different.

That evening, they returned to the Pokémon Center but still hadn't seen Ash.

"Do you think he's already left Pewter City?" Misty asked, concerned.

"Not likely," Kai reassured her. "Ash won't leave until he defeats Brock. I'd bet he'll show up at the gym again tonight or tomorrow morning."

Just as Kai predicted, the next morning, while they were having breakfast, Ash appeared, looking both exhausted and fired up.

"Ash!" Misty waved him over. "Where were you yesterday?"

"Sorry for worrying you," Ash said as he joined them at the table, quickly wolfing down some food. "I ran into Flint outside the gym and spent the day training with Pikachu at his place."

"Flint? Training?" Misty echoed, puzzled. "But Pikachu is an electric type. How's that supposed to help against Brock's Rock-types?"

"You'll see," Ash said confidently. "Pikachu is a whole different Pokémon today!"

"Oh?" Misty smirked. "Well, I'll believe it when I see it."

Kai, wiping his mouth with a napkin, suddenly said, "Ash, good luck. It's a shame I can't stick around to witness it."

"Why not?" Ash asked, surprised.

Kai replied with a smile, "Your goal is to compete in the Indigo League, right? Well, we're rivals. I have my journey to continue, and it's time for me to head to the next city."

"You're leaving already?" Misty asked, disappointed. Despite knowing Kai for only a short time, she'd enjoyed his company.

Kai smiled warmly. "Don't worry. Even though Kanto is vast, we share the same goal. We'll meet again maybe in the next city or gym."

After returning to Vermilion City, Kai went straight to the Cerise Laboratory.

"Thank you for your hard work," Professor Cerise said, greeting him warmly. "After you delivered the prototype to Professor Oak, he called to praise you. He went on for so long that I was starting to feel embarrassed!"

Just then, Chloe walked in with her school bag. Noticing Kai's Pokémon Eevee, Squirtle, and Charmander her eyes lit up.

"Wow, you've caught so many Pokémon!" she exclaimed.

"That's right," Kai replied. "I've gathered the Kanto starters, and now I'm looking to catch one more to complete my team." He gestured to his Pokémon. "Everyone, this is Chloe. Say hello!"

As the Pokémon greeted her, Chloe knelt to admire Kirlia. "Is this Kirlia's evolved form? It's so adorable!"

Kirlia responded with a polite bow, its gentle demeanour making Chloe smile in delight.

Watching the interaction, Professor Cerise said, "By the way, Kai, I've arranged a dormitory for you here at the lab. You won't need to stay at the Pokémon Center anymore. Plus, we've completed construction on Cerise Park, where all your Pokémon can stay safely."

"Cerise Park?" Kai repeated, intrigued.

Professor Cerise pointed out the window. "Take a look."

Outside, a massive glass dome stood behind the laboratory. Within the dome, streams, pools, hills, and dense forests could be seen as a perfect sanctuary for Pokémon.

----

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Chapter Text

----

In Cerise Park, Kai and Chloe walked side by side, leisurely exploring the grounds.

The environment was stunning lush greenery, flowing streams, and clusters of fruit trees basking in ample sunlight.

Functionally, it resembled the forest behind Professor Oak's lab, where trainers could leave their extra Pokémon to thrive in a safe environment.

As they strolled, Kai observed the park's ecosystem and remarked, "This place is incredible. It seems completely self-sufficient. Dr. Cerise must have put a lot of effort into designing it."

Chloe smiled knowingly. "It wasn't finished until yesterday. My dad said the first thing to do after completion was to have a trainer like you test it out and identify any flaws."

Kai chuckled. "As expected of Professor Cerise always so meticulous."

Nearby, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, Eevee, and Charmander played together, darting around in a lively game of chase.

It was clear they enjoyed the park's environment.

Only Kirlia remained close to Kai, walking calmly by his side.

Watching his Pokémon, Kai called out, "Bulbasaur, that's enough playing around. Save some energy we've got work to do later."

"Work?" Chloe asked, curious. "What do you mean?"

Kai grinned mischievously. "I'm heading to Vermilion Gym for a battle. Want to come and watch? Real Pokémon battles are so much more thrilling than what you see on TV. They'll get your blood pumping!"

"Real Pokémon battles..." Chloe repeated, intrigued. After a moment's hesitation, she nodded. "Alright, I'd like to see that."

As the sun dipped low, painting the skies over Vermilion City with shades of orange, the Vermilion Gym stood tall on the west coast.

Its design was bold, primarily yellow and white, resembling an inverted trapezoid like a modern sports arena.

Kai and Chloe entered the gym and were greeted by a receptionist. After Kai stated his intent to challenge the gym, they were led to the central battlefield.

"Please wait here. Gym Leader Lt. Surge will arrive shortly."

Kai scanned the area. The battlefield's khaki-coloured ground was bare, a classic setup for formal battles.

Surrounding the field were tiered seats on all sides, capable of accommodating nearly a thousand spectators.

The grandeur of the setting made Chloe visibly nervous, her unease evident in her fidgeting.

"Relax," Kai said, patting her shoulder. "There's nothing to worry about just enjoy the battle."

"I'll try." Chloe took a deep breath, then offered a soft, "Good luck."

As Chloe moved to the viewing area, Kai turned back to see several figures emerging from the opposing entrance.

Leading them was a tall man with spiked blond hair, a muscular build, and a commanding presence.

He wore a green military vest, camouflage pants, and aviator sunglasses, with a dog tag around his neck. His confidence, almost intimidating demeanour made it clear this was Lt. Surge, the Gym Leader of Vermilion City.

It was rumoured that Lt. Surge had once been a major in the Air Force, piloting aircraft powered by Electric Pokémon in wartime.

His reputation for aggressive tactics and hard-hitting battles preceded him, with challengers often leaving with severely injured Pokémon if they weren't prepared.

Standing in his command zone, Lt. Surge smirked. "So, you're here to challenge me, huh? Looks like another overconfident rookie walked into my gym."

Kai remained calm, unfazed by the provocation. He stepped forward and said firmly, "I'm here for the Thunder Badge, and I officially challenge you, Lt. Surge."

Lt. Surge folded his arms. "You want the badge? Let's see if you can earn it! Every day, I see plenty of trainers walk in here thinking they're hotshots. Most of them are just babies who don't stand a chance. Tell me, are you one of them?"

Kai frowned at the taunt but kept his composure. "What are the battle rules?"

Lt. Surge grinned, tossing two Poké Balls into the air. "It's simple: no time limit. If you can defeat the two Pokémon I'll use, the badge is yours."

"RAI-CHUUU!"

With a flash of red light, a Raichu appeared on the battlefield. Its larger size, darker fur, and whip-like tail gave it a commanding presence.

Lt. Surge smirked. "Alright, kid, what's your first Pokémon?"

Kai turned to his partner. "Kirlia, it's your time to shine."

"Kir-LIAA!"

Kirlia nodded gracefully and stepped forward onto the battlefield.

Lt. Surge raised an eyebrow, recognizing the Pokémon from another region. Even so, he scoffed. "A Kirlia? Seriously? None of your Pokémon are fully evolved. You've got a lot to learn, baby!"

Kai's expression hardened. "Let's battle first, shall we."

Lt. Surge's smirk faltered slightly, replaced by a serious expression. "Talk is cheap, kid. Raichu, let's go! Use Mega Punch!"

The battle began as Raichu charged forward, its fist glowing with power. Kai reacted quickly. "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!"

"Kir-kir-lia!"

Glowing green leaves materialized around Kirlia and shot toward the charging Raichu. Lt. Surge, unfazed, commanded, "Raichu, counter with Thunderbolt!"

"Raaaai... CHUUU!!!"

Electricity crackled from Raichu's body, colliding with the Magical Leaf attack in midair.

An explosion followed, but the leaves pierced through the lightning and struck Raichu, pushing it back slightly.

Kai's strategy was off to a strong start, but the intensity of the battle was far from over.

----

PS: Fun fact a player once defeated the Elite Four and Champion using six Magikarp. Anything is possible with strategy!

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Chapter Text

---

Although Raichu was struck by Magical Leaf, the Grass-type move didn't deal much damage due to the lack of type advantage against the Electric-type Pokémon.

The attack had minimal impact, but it was enough to catch Kai's attention.

Raichu hadn't relied on its speed to dodge but instead attempted to counter with a move.

While this seemed like a reasonable choice, in hindsight, Lt. Surge might have underestimated the power and precision of Magical Leaf.

Now that the attack had proven effective, Kai wasn't about to change his strategy. He raised his voice, commanding, "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf again!"

Magical leaves began to form once more, shimmering with energy as the leaves swirled and sharpened like spinning blades.

This time, Lt. Surge barked a different command, "Raichu, dodge it! Move!"

Raichu darted to the side in an attempt to evade, but Magical Leaf was a homing move it never missed its target.

The spinning leaves chased Raichu down, striking repeatedly with pinpoint accuracy. The impacts landed like rapid machine-gun fire.

BOOM!

A cloud of smoke enveloped the battlefield, obscuring the view. As it dissipated, Raichu emerged, its body battered and bruised but its fighting spirit undeterred. With a determined shake of its head, it charged straight toward Kirlia.

"Raichu, use Mega Punch!" Lt. Surge commanded.

Raichu rose onto its hind legs, its claws curling into glowing fists, surging with energy as it closed the distance to Kirlia with incredible force.

"Kirlia, Double Team!" Kai countered.

In an instant, Kirlia split into a dozen identical illusions, all fanning out across the battlefield.

Raichu froze mid-stride, glancing around in frustration as it attempted to identify the real Kirlia.

It lashed out wildly, its fists dispersing several phantoms, but the true Kirlia remained untouched.

Lt. Surge's frown deepened as he realized the tactic. "Raichu, enough of this! Use Thunderbolt to destroy them all!"

At the command, Raichu abandoned its punches, channelling electricity across its entire body.

Lightning bolts erupted in every direction, a dazzling web of electricity striking indiscriminately across the field.

The intense brightness forced Kai to shield his eyes with his arm.

When the dust finally settled, the illusions had vanished.

Only the real Kirlia remained standing calmly at a distance, unharmed.

It had teleported at the last moment, evading the attack entirely.

"Great work!" Kai praised a hint of relief in his voice. "Kirlia, now use Psychic!"

Kirlia raised its arms gracefully, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly light.

Suddenly, Raichu was lifted off the ground, flailing helplessly in mid-air as an invisible force gripped it.

With a flick of Kirlia's hand, Raichu was hurled to the ground, crashing with a heavy thud.

Lt. Surge clenched his fists. "Raichu, get up! Close the distance!"

Raichu staggered to its feet, summoning the last of its strength, and sprinted toward Kirlia with unwavering determination.

It was at this moment that Kai remembered a crucial detail. During Ash's first challenge against Lt. Surge in Vermilion City, Raichu's lack of speed was its downfall.

Due to evolving too quickly, Raichu hadn't learned moves that capitalized on agility, which gave Ash's Pikachu the upper hand in their rematch.

As Raichu drew closer, Lt. Surge gave a decisive command. "Raichu, Body Slam!"

Raichu leapt high into the air, its body stretched out and ready to crush Kirlia with its full weight.

Kai didn't hesitate. "Kirlia, Psychic again!"

Raichu stopped mid-fall, as though it had hit an invisible wall.

Caught in Psychic's grip, it was suspended in mid-air. Kirlia swung it violently, spinning Raichu before slamming it into the ground with a thunderous impact.

This time, Raichu lay motionless, its eyes rolling back as it fainted.

The referee raised his flag, declaring, "Raichu is unable to battle! Kirlia wins!"

Cheers erupted from the audience. Among them, Chloe, Kai's companion, clapped excitedly.

She couldn't help but be swept up in the thrill of the live battle.

Just as Kai had said earlier, watching a battle in person was far more exhilarating than seeing it on television. Her emotions ebbed and flowed with every move, and now, she was ecstatic.

Lt. Surge returned Raichu to its Poké Ball with a determined look. "Not bad, kid. You're stronger than I expected. Beating my Raichu proves you're no pushover, but if you want my badge, you'll have to defeat my next Pokémon!"

With that, he tossed another Poké Ball into the air. A flash of red light revealed a yellow Pokémon with black stripes, standing on two legs.

A black lightning bolt adorned its chest, and sparks of electricity crackled from circular organs near its head. Its sharp fangs jutted slightly out of its mouth.

.... Pokedex

Kai scanned it with his Pokédex.

Pokédex: "Electabuzz, the Electric Pokémon. The evolved form of Elekid. Its body is charged with electricity, which it uses to paralyze foes or power cities. However, it often causes blackouts by absorbing too much electricity."

Kai recalled Kirlia and sent out Bulbasaur.

"Bulbasaur, it's your turn!" he said confidently.

"Bulba, Bulba!" Bulbasaur responded, leaping into position.

Lt. Surge smirked. "This battle is just getting started. Electabuzz, Quick Attack!"

Electabuzz darted forward with blinding speed, closing the gap between itself and Bulbasaur almost instantly.

"Bulbasaur, use Razor Leaf!" Kai countered.

A flurry of sharp, spinning leaves flew toward Electabuzz. But Lt. Surge wasn't fazed. "Electabuzz, Thunder Wave!"

Lightning crackled from Electabuzz, meeting the leaves in mid-air. The attacks cancelled each other out in a bright explosion of sparks and shredded leaves.

As Electabuzz pressed forward, Kai ordered, "Bulbasaur, use Vine Whip!"

Two thick vines shot forward, striking Electabuzz hard. But Electabuzz powered through, closing in with raw determination.

"Now, Thunder Punch!" Lt. Surge shouted.

Electabuzz's fists glowed with electricity as it swung them toward Bulbasaur, landing a direct hit. Despite the impact, Kai remained calm.

"Bulbasaur, hang in there!" he encouraged. Bulbasaur stumbled but quickly steadied itself.

Its Grass typing resisted Electric moves, reducing the damage significantly.

This was exactly why Kai had planned to rely on Bulbasaur for this fight. He smirked.

The match was far from over, and he was ready to turn the tables.

----

For early access to advanced chapters and exclusive illustrations made by me, visit my P@treon:

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Chapter Text

----

"Bulbasaur, use Sleep Powder!"

"Bulbasaurrrr!"

After being hit a few times, Bulbasaur seized an opening, shook the bud on its back, and released a shimmering cloud of phosphorescent pollen.

The pollen drifted without the aid of wind and, in just a breath, blanketed half the battlefield.

Lt. Surge's expression changed slightly as he urgently called out, "Electabuzz, dodge it!"

But Electabuzz was too close. Caught off guard, it was covered by the Sleep Powder.

A heavy drowsiness overcame it, and it couldn't resist. Staggering, it collapsed to the ground and began snoring softly.

"Electabuzz! Wake up, now!!"

Lt. Surge's desperate shouting did nothing; Electabuzz was fast asleep. No matter how loud he yelled, it was futile Electabuzz's consciousness was completely submerged in slumber.

"It's over." Kai gave Bulbasaur its final command. "Use Razor Leaf!"

Bulbasaur walked up to the slumbering Electabuzz, looking down at it. Leaves formed at the tip of its bud, sharp and glowing, before flying out in rapid succession to strike Electabuzz directly.

The attack landed cleanly, dealing critical damage!

Still fast asleep, Electabuzz had no chance to recover before fainting.

Lt. Surge sighed as he retrieved its Poké Ball, recalling the unconscious Pokémon in a flash of red light.

But just then, a radiant glow enveloped Bulbasaur. In a matter of seconds, the light faded, revealing its evolved form Ivysaur!

"Bulbasaur evolved into Ivysaur?" Kai exclaimed in surprise.

Compared to Bulbasaur, Ivysaur didn't look drastically different, but its body was a richer shade of green.

The bud on its back now had four large, banana-shaped leaves surrounding it.

Kai pulled out his Pokédex and scanned Ivysaur.

Pokédex: "Ivysaur, the Seed Pokémon. A Grass- and Poison-type. The bulb on its back grows larger as it absorbs sunlight. Once it is fully nourished, it blooms into a large flower."

"Congratulations," Lt. Surge said as he walked over. Despite losing, he didn't seem upset. "Not only did you beat me, but your Pokémon evolved as well. It looks like a promising partner has grown even stronger!"

At that moment, Chloe came down from the stands and joined Kai. She looked even happier than Kai but remained quiet in the presence of others.

Instead, she crouched down to pat Kirlia and Ivysaur, expressing her joy with gentle gestures.

Lt. Surge reached into his pocket and handed a badge to Kai.

"This is the Thunder Badge. You earned it. Take it."

The badge resembled a golden-orange sun, radiating bright rays.

Kai accepted the badge and turned to leave with Chloe, but just as they reached the exit, Lt. Surge called out, "Wait a second. I've got something else for you."

He tossed a small, shiny stone through the air. It arced perfectly, but just before it reached Kai, it stopped in mid-air, suspended by Kirlia's psychic power.

Ever protective, Kirlia wouldn't let anything unfamiliar approach its trainer unchallenged.

Kai examined the stone. It resembled a gleaming green gemstone, and through its crystal surface, he could see a distinct lightning bolt etched inside.

"A Thunder Stone?" Kai murmured, puzzled by the gift.

"Take it," Lt. Surge said with a grin. "Consider it a personal token of recognition from me. You've proven yourself a skilled trainer."

Kai was stunned but smiled brightly as he accepted the gift. "Thank you! I'll put it to good use!"

---

That Evening

The sky had turned dark as Kai and Chloe left the Vermilion Gym and returned to the Cerise Laboratory, strolling along the brightly lit streets.

Inside the lab, Professor Cerise was still hard at work, typing at his computer.

When he heard about Kai's successful Gym Challenge, his face lit up with pride.

Upon learning that Chloe had also attended, he was even more surprised.

"I never thought I'd see the day you'd enjoy a Pokémon battle, Chloe!"

Chloe glanced at Kai, her tone soft but amused. "Watching it live made me realize how fascinating Pokémon battles can be."

Without Kai's invitation, Chloe doubted she'd have attended on her own.

As the hour grew late, Kai stretched and yawned. He was about to bid the professor and Chloe goodnight when Cerise stopped him.

"By the way, Kai, if you're free tomorrow, I have a favour to ask."

"What is it?" Kai asked curiously.

"There's an unmanned power plant nearby that supplies electricity to the lab. Although it's been abandoned for years, its systems have always operated without issue until recently."

"For the past few days, the voltage has been unstable, causing frequent blackouts. I suspect wild Electric-type Pokémon are interfering with the machinery."

Kai nodded. "An abandoned power plant… Sure, leave it to me!"

----

Late Night

Back at the dormitory, Kai had showered and was lying on his bed, the Thunder Stone in his hand.

The cosy room was warmly lit, its blue and green minimalist décor giving it a serene atmosphere. His Pokémon were relaxing nearby.

Kai waved over his Eevee, who approached curiously. "Eevee, have you thought about what you want to evolve into?"

Eevee tilted its head, its eyes wide and inquisitive.

"I was thinking…" Kai turned the Thunder Stone in his fingers. "You're quick and full of energy. Jolteon might be a perfect fit for you! But if you'd prefer another path, I'll respect your choice."

"Ee-vee-vee!"

Eevee let out a soft cry, gazing at the Thunder Stone. After a moment of contemplation, it slowly leaned forward and touched its forehead to the stone.

In an instant, a brilliant flash of electricity filled the room. Jolteon was emerging.

----

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Chapter Text

Kai is Facing a Young & exhausted Zapdos, who was resting in the power plant, i just gave This has a reminder.

----

When the light faded, what appeared before Kai was a dazzling new evolution of Eevee.

Its sleek, yellow body crackled with electric energy and sharp, lightning-like spikes jutted from its fur Jolteon!

Kai observed his newly evolved companion with a mix of awe and admiration.

Jolteon's slender limbs and small claws looked deceptively delicate, but the ruff of white fur around its neck and the sharp, needle-like spines bristling from its coat told a different story.

This was a Pokémon imbued with immense power. Even without touching it, Kai could feel the raw vitality and electricity emanating from its form.

Pausing for a moment, Kai pulled out his Pokédex. The device whirred softly before displaying information about Jolteon:

Pokédex: Jolteon, the Lightning Pokémon. Electric type. Evolved using a Thunder Stone. When frightened, its fur becomes spiked needles, intimidating enemies. It can absorb negative ions from the air and discharge high-voltage electricity up to 10,000 volts. Known for its incredible speed, it is sometimes employed as a guard Pokémon in certain areas.

Kai couldn't hide his excitement. "Amazing," he murmured, his voice calm but tinged with admiration.

He knelt beside Jolteon, reaching out carefully to touch its spiny fur. "This form suits you perfectly, Jolteon. It's a symbol of your strength and potential."

"Jolt!Chrrt-chzzzt!"

Jolteon gave a soft growl of approval, the sparks along its body dimming slightly in response to Kai's gentle tone.

----

Early Morning.

The first rays of dawn spilt across the horizon as Kai set out from the Cerise Laboratory.

He walked along a winding mountain trail, his steps steady and purposeful.

The journey ahead wasn't just about exploring the unknown; it was about growth for both himself and his Pokémon.

The terrain gradually grew steeper, the cityscape of Vermilion giving way to dense forests.

Towering trees lined the path, their leaves whispering in the cool breeze.

In the distance, wind turbines spun lazily atop the hills, their blades casting long, slow-moving shadows.

Nestled within the forested mountains was an old power plant. Its red brick structure stood as a relic of the past, its weathered walls and moss-covered cracks bearing witness to years of neglect.

Several of the windows were shattered, and vines crept along its façade, further emphasizing its abandonment.

Yet, the faint hum of electricity coursing through the wires and the occasional flicker of light from within suggested the plant was still functional, if only barely.

Maintenance workers probably visited occasionally to ensure the ageing machinery didn't fail completely.

Kai paused at the entrance, taking in the stillness of the scene. The air felt heavy, charged with an odd tension.

Despite the natural beauty around him, the forest was eerily quiet.

Not a single wild Pokémon stirred, and the usual chorus of Pidgey and Spearow was conspicuously absent.

The main gate was locked, a rusted padlock dangling from its chains. Kai frowned, his analytical mind already forming a plan.

Kai's gaze shifted to a side window, half-open and broken, its jagged edges glinting in the sunlight.

After a quick scan of his surroundings to ensure no one was watching, Kai slipped through the window with practised ease, landing lightly inside the plant.

The interior of the power plant was a maze of corridors, each one dimly lit by flickering orange emergency lights.

The air was thick with the metallic tang of electricity and the faint scent of oil.

Kai pulled out his flashlight, its beam cutting through the shadows as he began to explore.

His steps echoed softly as he moved, his eyes scanning every corner for signs of life.

Room after room revealed nothing but dusty equipment and broken furniture. The silence was oppressive, broken only by the faint hum of machinery.

"Kirlia, do you sense anything unusual?" Kai asked, his voice low but steady.

Kirlia, walking at his side, closed her eyes and focused, her psychic energy sweeping through the area. After a moment, she shook her head.

Kai nodded thoughtfully. "Let's keep searching. There's a reason this place feels off."

As he and his Pokémon moved deeper into the plant, a sudden cry echoed through the corridors.

The sound was brief but unmistakable a clear, sharp call that sent a chill down Kai's spine.

"What was that?" he murmured, stopping in his tracks. He glanced at his team, noting their alert expressions. They had heard it too.

Without hesitation, Kai led the way, his footsteps quick but deliberate.

The sound had come from deeper within the plant, and he wasn't about to ignore it. His instincts told him something significant lay ahead.

After navigating a series of twisting hallways, Kai arrived at a half-open door.

Peering through the gap, he saw sunlight streaming in through a glass ceiling, illuminating a large room filled with humming generators.

But what truly caught his attention was the figure perched atop one of the machines a massive, golden bird Pokémon. Its body radiated power, its spiked feathers gleaming in the sunlight.

The air around it crackled with electricity as it absorbed energy directly from the generators.

Kai's breath caught. "Zapdos," he whispered.

The legendary Pokémon was awe-inspiring, its sharp eyes scanning its surroundings with an air of authority.

Known as the Thunderbird, Zapdos was a creature of legend, revered for its ability to command lightning and change the weather.

Kai's mind raced. This was a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, an opportunity few trainers ever dreamed of.

But he knew better than to act rashly. Zapdos was no ordinary opponent he was powerful, intelligent, and likely to be hostile if provoked.

Kai turned to his team, his expression calm but serious. "This is going to be the toughest battle we've ever faced. Zapdos isn't just any Pokémon it's a legend. If we want to win, we need to work together and stay focused."

Each Pokémon cried out in acknowledgement, their determination clear.

Kai pushed open the door, stepping into the room with quiet confidence. Jolteon darted forward, taking its position at the forefront. Zapdos turned its sharp gaze toward the intruders, its feathers bristling with electricity.

Kai met its gaze evenly. "Zapdos, I challenge you! If I win, I'll earn your respect and partnership. Let's see which of us is stronger."

"Kraaaak-kaaaaw!!!!!!!"

The legendary Pokémon screeched, its voice echoing through the room. It flapped its massive wings, releasing a surge of electricity that filled the air with a deafening crackle.

Zapdos glanced at Kai with disdain, its sharp eyes betraying a hint of amusement.

"Alright, I'll take that as a yes," Kai said, tossing a Poké Ball into the air. "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf! Ivysaur, Razor Leaf! Charmander, Ember! Squirtle, Water Gun! Everyone, let's Gang Bang!"

At Kai's command, his Pokémon unleashed their moves in unison, their combined power hurtling toward Zapdos. The battle to capture the legendary Pokémon had begun!

---

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Chapter Text

----

"Kraaaak-kaaaawwwwwe!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

The Zapdos let out a shrill cry, its piercing tone echoing through the power station.

It spread its majestic wings, and arcs of electricity danced wildly across its body, illuminating the dimly lit space.

The air grew heavy with static, making Kai's hair stand on end. With a single, devastating Thunderbolt, Zapdos effortlessly neutralized the incoming attacks from the Pokémon.

Sparks erupted from the nearby equipment, casting flickering shadows on the walls.

Kai couldn't suppress his admiration. "As expected of a Legendary Pokémon!" he exclaimed, eyes wide with awe. "Even when outnumbered, it handles everything so calmly!"

His words carried across the room, perhaps louder than he intended. Zapdos's gaze snapped toward him, its sharp, predatory eyes narrowing.

Without warning, a bolt of lightning crackled through the air, aimed directly at him.

"Whoa!" Kai yelped, diving behind the nearest doorway. The searing heat of the lightning passed just inches away, leaving a scorch mark on the wall.

His heart pounded in his chest as he pressed himself flat against the doorframe.

Peeking out cautiously, Kai shouted, "Kirlia, quickly find a way to restrict its movements!"

Kirlia stepped forward, her delicate form glowing with psychic energy. Her hands extended as an aura surrounded Zapdos, attempting to lock it in place.

For a moment, it seemed like she might succeed. But Zapdos, with its overwhelming power, let out a defiant screech and thrashed its wings.

The psychic hold shattered like glass, sending shockwaves rippling through the room.

Kai gritted his teeth. "The level gap is too big… We're barely keeping up," he muttered under his breath.

Zapdos swooped under the shattered skylight, its sleek body spinning in a controlled dive.

The sunlight streaming through the broken glass gave its feathers a golden sheen.

As it descended, its long, sharp beak began to glow menacingly. It had locked onto Ivysaur.

"No, it's Drill Peck!" Kai shouted. "Charmander, use Smokescreen!"

The small Fire-type acted without hesitation. A thick, black smoke billowed from Charmander's mouth, quickly enveloping the battlefield.

The acrid scent of the smoke stung Kai's nose, but it provided much-needed cover.

Zapdos's glowing beak cut through the smoke, missing its intended target and striking the ground instead.

The sheer force of the attack left a massive crater on the floor, and the entire building shook from the impact.

Loose wires dangled from the ceiling, sparking dangerously.

Kai shielded his face from the debris. "That was too close," he murmured. "Ivysaur, are you okay?"

From the smoke, a low growl of determination answered him.

As the smog thickened, Zapdos rose above it, its glowing body visible like a beacon.

The electrical currents coursing through its feathers made it impossible to lose sight of.

Kai's mind raced. "It's strong, but it's not invincible," he thought. "We just need to find the right opening…"

Suddenly, two streams of elemental energy, water and fire, pierced through the smoke, converging on Zapdos.

The attacks collided with its body, eliciting a pained screech. Kai grinned. "Great work, team!"

"Zzzraaaawwwkkkk!!!!!"

Zapdos flapped its wings with fury, dispersing the smokescreen in one powerful gust.

It glared down at the Pokémon below, its body crackling with renewed energy. At that moment, two vines shot upward, wrapping tightly around its wings.

Kai's eyes lit up. "Ivysaur, that was amazing! Pull it down!"

Ivysaur strained, its vines trembling under the weight of the powerful Legendary.

The ground beneath it cracked as it dug its claws in for leverage. Zapdos, however, was far from helpless.

It flapped its wings fiercely, creating a stalemate in midair.

"Jolteon, it's your turn! Use Quick Attack!"

The sleek Electric-type Pokémon dashed forward, its speed blurring its form as it ran up the walls and leapt into the air.

Jolteon slammed into Zapdos with precision, disrupting its balance. The Legendary faltered, giving Ivysaur the chance to yank it down.

"Now!" Kai commanded. "Everyone, attack together!"

His team launched a flurry of moves flames, water, and psychic energy converged on Zapdos in a dazzling display.

"Screeaaawkkk!!!!"

The Legendary Pokémon let out a cry of pain, struggling to stay airborne.

But Zapdos was not easily defeated. With a defiant shriek, it unleashed another Thunderbolt.

The attack tore through the room, its erratic energy destroying everything in its path.

Sparks flew as machinery exploded, filling the air with the acrid smell of burnt metal.

Kai ducked behind the door again, his heart pounding. When the lightning ceased, he peeked out cautiously.

The power station was in ruins broken machinery, shattered glass, and plumes of smoke dominated the scene.

He scanned the battlefield, his stomach tightening as he saw his Pokémon. Jolteon stood firm, but the others were visibly injured.

Ivysaur's vines were singed, Charmander panted heavily, and Kirlia clutched her side. Even Squirtle, though safe in its shell, was rattled.

Zapdos hovered above, its sharp gaze scanning the weakened team. Its eyes burned with fury.

It had been humiliated, and it was ready to unleash its full power.

"Krrrraaaaakkk!!!!"

With an enraged cry, it summoned dark storm clouds through the shattered skylight.

Thunder rumbled ominously, and flashes of lightning illuminated the growing tempest.

The once-clear sky was now a swirling mass of black and grey.

Kai swallowed hard, sweat trickling down his forehead. He opened his mouth to issue a command, but his Pokégear buzzed suddenly.

Startled, he fumbled to answer. Professor Cerise's voice came through the speaker, filled with concern.

"Kai! Are you alright? I heard explosions, and the entire area, including the lab, had lost power! What's going on?"

Kai glanced up at the storm clouds, the tension in his chest tightening. "Sorry, Professor. There's… a bit of trouble here. But no matter what happens, this will be over soon."

As he spoke, a massive bolt of lightning shot down from the storm, piercing through the skylight.

The room was bathed in blinding light as the attack targeted everything indiscriminately.

Zapdos's ultimate move, Thunder, was a devastating Electric-type attack. Its sheer power and range made it almost impossible to avoid.

Kai's Pokémon braced themselves, but there was no escape in the enclosed space.

In that critical moment, Jolteon leapt into the air, meeting the thunderstorm head-on.

"Jolteon, no!" Kai cried, reaching out instinctively.

The lightning struck Jolteon, and the room was filled with an intense flash. Kai shielded his eyes, his heart sinking.

When the light faded, he opened his eyes cautiously. What he saw left him speechless.

Jolteon stood tall, completely unharmed. Its fur bristled with absorbed energy and a fierce determination burned in its eyes.

For a moment, Kai was stunned. Then he remembered. "Volt Absorb…" he murmured. "Of course! Jolteon's ability makes it immune to Electric-type moves. It even healed from the attack!"

A wide grin spread across his face. "Amazing, Jolteon! You're incredible!"

Zapdos, visibly shaken, hesitated midair. It had not expected such resilience.

Kirlia took the opportunity to restrain it with psychic energy, while Ivysaur's vines wrapped tightly around its wings.

"Don't let it recover!" Kai shouted. "Everyone, attack together and finish this!"

With renewed determination, the team unleashed a final barrage of moves. Flames, water, psychic energy, and vines all struck Zapdos in unison.

"Chrrt-chzzzt!"

This time, the Legendary Pokémon could no longer fight back. With a final screech, it crashed to the ground, its wings splayed out in defeat.

Kai didn't waste a moment. He grabbed an empty Poké Ball and threw it with all his might.

The ball struck Zapdos, enveloping it in a red light. It shook violently once, twice, three times before finally clicking shut with a soft ding.

Kai approached the ball cautiously, his hands trembling as he picked it up.

Staring at the red-and-white sphere in his palm, he struggled to process what had just happened.

"I… I actually caught Zapdos," he whispered, his voice barely audible.

For a moment, the world around him faded away, and all he could feel was the weight of the Poké Ball in his hand.

----

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Chapter Text

---

Dragging his tired body, Kai arrived at the Pokémon Center in Vermilion City.

After handing over his Pokémon to Nurse Joy for treatment, he headed back to Professor Cerise's Research Institute once the healing was complete.

Along the way, the city was in chaos.

Due to the explosion at the Power Plant, as Professor Cerise had mentioned during their phone call, there was a large-scale power outage in the area around the institute.

Transportation, restaurants, and workplaces were all heavily affected.

Kai even saw Officer Jenny standing in the middle of the road, directing traffic with her Growlithe by her side.

Fortunately, key buildings like the Cerise Research Institute and the Pokémon Center had backup power sources, ensuring they could continue functioning for the time being.

When he reached the institute, Kai explained the situation to Professor Cerise.

Upon hearing that Kai had encountered Zapdos, the professor shot to his feet in shock.

"You actually met the legendary Pokémon, Zapdos?!"

Seeing Kai nod, Professor Cerise quickly calmed himself and continued, "So that's why we've been experiencing these strange power outages... Zapdos must have been causing trouble. But now that the explosion at the Power Plant has occurred, I doubt it will appear again. I'll call the power company to have the equipment repaired and replaced immediately."

"Actually..." Kai scratched his head awkwardly. "I also managed to catch Zapdos."

"What?!" Professor Cerise nearly choked on his breath. After a brief coughing fit, he looked at Kai in disbelief. "You caught it?!"

"Yep." Kai took out the Poké Ball containing Zapdos and waved it in front of the professor to prove his claim. "But to avoid any unnecessary trouble, I'd appreciate it if you could keep this a secret for now."

Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Professor Cerise nodded. "Don't worry. I'll keep quiet until you're ready to reveal it yourself."

At this moment, Kai hesitantly asked, "Professor, about the six-Pokémon limit for trainers when I catch a new Pokémon, it's automatically sent to the research institute. Is there any way to adjust this setting?"

Hearing this, Professor Cerise smiled. "What? Are six Pokémon not enough for you?"

"Under normal circumstances, they are," Kai explained, gesturing to the Poké Ball in his hand. "But in this case, it's inconvenient to send Zapdos elsewhere. Carrying it around as an extra would disrupt my team for normal battles."

Professor Cerise's expression shifted as he understood. "You don't plan on using Zapdos in regular battles, do you?"

"Exactly," Kai replied. "For me, Kirlia and Ivysaur are my main battlers. Legendary Pokémon like Zapdos are too conspicuous. I see it as a trump card a hidden ace. Alternating between obvious strengths and concealed strategies can give me the upper hand in battle."

"That's a smart approach," Professor Cerise said with approval. "Hand me your Pokédex."

Kai passed it over, watching as the professor connected it to the computer and made a few adjustments before returning it.

"All set. I've updated your permissions to allow you to carry up to 12 Pokémon instead of 6. This way, you won't have to worry about rare Pokémon being sent away unexpectedly."

Later that afternoon, at Cerise Park...

Kai released Zapdos from its Poké Ball. The park was closed to the public, so he didn't have to worry about anyone seeing the legendary Pokémon and causing a commotion.

Zapdos flapped its powerful wings and glared at Kai with a haughty expression.

Kai smiled. "I know you're not happy about being beaten by weaker Pokémon, especially when you were outnumbered. But don't worry. Over time, I'm sure you'll accept me as your trainer!"

Zapdos raised its head proudly, clearly unamused.

"Screeawkk"(Humph)

Kai chuckled at its defiance. "You don't have to talk to me if you don't want to, but as my Pokémon, you have responsibilities. Since you're so powerful, how about being a training partner for the others?"

Without waiting for a response, Kai turned to his team. "Alright, everyone, attack together!"

"Krrrraaaaakkk!"(Attack me Bastards!)

With an indignant screech, Zapdos unleashed a dazzling surge of electricity, lighting up the entire park.

After a day of rest, Kai prepared to leave the Cerise Research Institute with his backpack and Pokémon.

He was heading to the next gym city when someone called his name.

Turning around, he saw Ash, Misty, and Brock approaching him!

Was it fate that had brought them together, just like in the anime?

"You guys got to Vermilion City already?" Kai greeted them with a smile. "Are you here to challenge the Vermilion Gym?"

Ash grinned and unzipped his jacket to reveal three badges pinned to the inside.

"The Boulder Badge, Cascade Badge, and Thunder Badge?!" Kai exclaimed. "You earned three badges in just a few days? That's impressive!"

Ash rubbed his nose proudly. "Becoming a Pokémon Master means aiming high. Three badges are nothing!"

"I can't believe you!" Misty teased. "You only got my Cascade Badge because I went easy on you!"

Brock nodded in agreement. "Exactly. A little humility wouldn't hurt."

Ash looked sheepish but quickly laughed it off.

Misty stepped forward, greeting Kai warmly, though her usual bossy tone seemed softer, even shy.

Kai smiled and said, "It's only been a couple of days, Misty, but you're looking more beautiful than ever & your claim to be the most beautiful girl in the world is not a lie it seems but it's still a long way until you become one"

"What!!" Misty growled in anger & shock.

Meanwhile, Brock extended his hand for a handshake. "We haven't officially met. I'm Brock. I resigned as the Pewter City Gym Leader to travel with Ash and Misty. I'm now working toward becoming a Pokémon Breeder."

"That's a great goal," Kai replied, shaking his hand. "But have you ever considered becoming a Pokémon Doctor? You'd be great at it."

Before Brock could respond, Kai added with a grin, "By the way, are you really only 15 years old? You look older than me!"

Brock froze for a moment before letting out an awkward laugh.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Ah, well..." Brock shook his head with a wry smile. Unexpectedly, the first topic of conversation upon reuniting was about who looked older!

But he understood that Kai was joking it was just a way to break the ice. Spreading his hands, he replied, "Maybe it's because I have nine younger siblings to take care of. Being overworked ages you quickly."

"By the way," Ash interjected, "do you want to come to the port with us?"

Kai asked, puzzled, "What's going on at the port?"

"We were just in the city centre," Misty explained, "and someone handed us tickets for a luxury cruise ship. They said it's hosting a grand banquet for Pokémon Trainers, financed by a wealthy sponsor. Tons of people are attending, it sounds like fun, and it's all free!"

"Really? That sounds too good to be true," Kai frowned. "Are you sure it's not a scam?"

Seeing Kai's scepticism, Ash took out a ticket from his pocket.

"It's real. Look, here's the ticket. On our way here, we saw loads of people rushing toward the port."

"Even so," Kai said, eyeing the ticket suspiciously, "there's only one ticket. How are the three of you planning to get on board?"

Ash opened the ticket to reveal the word Group printed on it.

"See? It's a group ticket. We can all go together. If you're interested, join us!"

Kai examined the ticket closely. The front displayed a picture of an extravagant cruise ship, and next to it were the words S.S. Anne.

S.S. Anne?!

Kai suddenly remembers the storyline of S.S. Anne. Wasn't this the famous shipwreck from the Pokémon anime?

Unaware of Kai's hesitation, Ash continued enthusiastically, "It's going to be amazing! We'll meet Trainers from all over, battle new Pokémon, and share strategies. Isn't that exciting?"

"Exactly!" Brock chimed in, his mind clearly elsewhere. "Not to mention all the delicious food and the gorgeous older ladies..."

Misty's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Traveling by sea, lounging on the deck, basking in the sun it sounds so dreamy!"

While the others were lost in their imaginations, Kai was thinking about something entirely different.

If he remembered correctly, shortly after the S.S. Anne set sail, it was attacked by Team Rocket, caught in a storm, and ultimately sank to the bottom of the ocean.

A luxury cruise ship like this must have cost billions, yet it was destined to meet such a tragic end.

But what could he do? Even if he warned everyone, would they believe him? Team Rocket's infiltration must have been carefully planned, and alerting the crew without solid proof might just tip off Giovanni, their mastermind.

As for the storm... Kai figured such a large ship would have access to accurate weather forecasts.

It wouldn't set sail unless the conditions were deemed safe unless Team Rocket tampered with its course, or if the storm formed too suddenly to predict.

"Huh? Kai, what are you thinking?" Misty asked, noticing his prolonged silence. "So, are you coming with us?"

Kai nodded after a moment's thought. "Sure, I'll join you. I want to see it for myself."

The group made their way to the port in Vermilion City. As they approached, the sight of numerous ships lined up along the coast greeted them.

Among them, the S.S. Anne stood out as the largest and most luxurious vessel, towering more than ten stories high.

Its grandeur made it the undeniable centrepiece of the harbour.

The S.S. Anne was world-renowned, visiting Vermilion City once a year before continuing its global voyage.

Just as Ash had mentioned, the docks were bustling with Trainers and their Pokémon, all eagerly boarding the ship.

"Wow, it's enormous!" Misty exclaimed, craning her neck to take in the full height of the ship. "We're really going to sail on this?"

Before the group could board, Kai stopped them. "Wait a moment I need to grab something first."

He headed toward a nearby diving shop and browsed for a while before purchasing a pair of diving goggles and a simple respirator. The price tag made him wince.

So expensive...

After paying, Kai slid the items into his backpack with a heavy heart.

The purchase had significantly dented the savings he'd accumulated from part-time jobs.

"What's with the gear?" Ash asked curiously.

"I'm not the best swimmer," Kai replied nonchalantly. "These might come in handy someday."

He chose not to reveal the ship's impending fate to his friends.

After all, it hadn't happened yet, and in the original timeline, they had survived without incident. Surely they'd find a way to escape if disaster struck.

After queuing, checking tickets, and boarding, the group ascended the gangway and stepped onto the deck. They entered a magnificent hall that left them all awestruck.

The hall was vast and grand, with gleaming gold decorations and countless crystal chandeliers casting reflections across the space.

Tourists of all kinds mingled, chatting animatedly about their travels and Pokémon.

A long red-carpeted table in the centre of the room was laden with an assortment of food, inviting everyone to indulge.

Vendors lined the sides of the hall, selling everything from jewellery and figurines to life-sized Pokémon plushies.

The lively atmosphere buzzed with the sound of haggling and laughter.

In the centre of the hall, a crowd had gathered to watch a Pokémon battle. A middle-aged man in a suit and a teenager in a green shirt stood as opponents, commanding their Pokémon: a Raticate and a Starmie.

----

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Chapter Text

----

Kai looked closely at the man in the suit and felt he seemed very familiar.

After thinking carefully, he realized it was the same man he had battled on the ship when travelling to the Kanto region!

What a coincidence.

However, the small purple Rattata from their previous battle had now evolved into a large, brown Raticate.

"Raticate, use High Jump Kick!"

"Starmie, use Tackle!"

The two Pokémon collided. While they appeared evenly matched at first, Raticate clearly had the upper hand.

As they separated, the man in the suit issued another command: "Raticate, use Hyper Fang!"

With a burst of speed, Raticate rushed at Starmie, sinking its sharp front teeth into its opponent's body.

As it bit down with all its might, the jewel at the centre of Starmie shattered, and the Pokémon fell backwards onto the ground and fainted.

A round of applause erupted from the crowd, cheering loudly for the winner.

The boy knelt to embrace his fallen Pokémon, and though the man in the suit had won, he still maintained a gentlemanly demeanour.

"This was just a small battle," he said warmly. "It seems the goddess of victory smiled on me today. Train your Starmie well, and it will surely grow stronger."

At that moment, a woman in a red tube-top dress approached and took the man's arm, her presence exuding elegance.

Victorious in battle and lucky in love this man certainly seemed to enjoy life to the fullest.

"Now then, is there any trainer brave enough to challenge my Raticate?" he called out.

Before Kai could react, Ash had already stepped forward with his usual enthusiasm.

"I'm fired up! Let my Butterfree be your opponent!"

Kai shook his head with a slight smile, opting not to watch the battle.

Instead, he greeted Misty and Brock, then walked away with Kirlia by his side.

Before boarding the ship, Kai had decided to recall his other Pokémon to avoid the noise of the crowd, leaving only Kirlia with him.

As he wandered through the market stalls, something caught his eye.

A young man dressed as a waiter was chatting with an older man selling Magikarp.

The young man had sharp, handsome features, with blue-grey, shoulder-length hair parted in the middle. His demeanour gave off a mix of charm and mischief.

"I'll tell you a secret," the Magikarp seller whispered conspiratorially. "This Magikarp can lay golden eggs!"

The young man blinked in astonishment. "Golden eggs?"

"Exactly!" the seller replied, lowering his voice. "One Magikarp lays a thousand eggs. A thousand Magikarp lay a million eggs. Imagine the profits when those million lay eggs again it's astronomical!"

Dazzled by the absurd prospect, the young man muttered, "That... sounds incredible."

Seizing the opportunity, the seller grinned. "And the best part? This Magikarp is only For 3000 Pokédollar! With just three rounds of breeding, you'll be swimming in billions!"

"Just three rounds?!" the young man exclaimed, his eyes lighting up. "I'd become a billionaire in no time!"

Kai couldn't believe his eyes. The "waiter" was none other than James from Team Rocket! And the scheming Magikarp vendor? The source of countless scams.

Kai stifled a laugh but couldn't resist stepping in. Seeing James reaching for his wallet, he coughed lightly and approached.

"Excuse me, sir. Would you sell this Magikarp to me for 500 Pokédollars?"

The vendor's cheerful façade dropped. "What? Are you kidding? This is a golden Magikarp! I won't sell it for 500 Pokédollars!"

"Golden, huh?" Kai mused, peering at the flopping Magikarp. "It looks like a regular Magikarp to me. You can find these in any river or lake. Honestly, why would anyone buy one?"

James froze, the reality sinking in. "A Magikarp you can find anywhere?"

Sensing his mark slipping away, the vendor panicked. "Hey, don't listen to him! This Magikarp is different special! It lays gold!"

Kai smirked. "If it's so special, why are you still selling Magikarp instead of becoming a millionaire?"

James snapped back to his senses. "You liar! How dare you trick me!"

With a frustrated yell, he kicked the fish tank and stormed off, pausing only to nod in gratitude toward Kai before disappearing into the crowd.

Kai smiled, satisfied, and turned to leave but the vendor quickly stepped in his path.

"Hey, kid! Why'd you ruin my sale?!"

Kai tilted his head and replied calmly, "I couldn't just stand by and watch someone get scammed, especially someone I know. If you want to sell your Magikarp, try the next unlucky customer."

Ignoring the vendor's protests, Kai began to walk away. But as the man reached out, Kirlia stepped forward, her eyes glowing ominously.

The vendor recoiled in fear and lowered his hand.

Kai's gaze shifted to the Magikarp. Based on its condition, it seemed close to evolving. Buying it might mean obtaining a Gyarados a deal too good to pass up.

"All right," he said. "I'll buy it for 500 Pokédollars."

The vendor groaned in frustration. "It was just about to sell for three thousand Pokédollars!"

Kai didn't budge. Knowing he had no other choice, the vendor sighed and relented. "Fine. 500 it is. Take it."

Kai smiled and handed over the money. As he walked away, he couldn't help but feel satisfied his good deed had also netted him a promising new companion.

----

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Chapter Text

----

After paying, Kai received the Magikarp into its Poké Ball, marking it as his seventh Pokémon.

As he walked through the corridor, the number of tourists gradually thinned.

By the time he reached the guestroom area of the cruise ship, even the crew were scarcely seen.

It seemed most passengers were congregated in the main hall or on the deck, enjoying the start of the voyage.

After all, few would board a luxury cruise ship just to rest in their rooms.

Glancing around, there was no sign of Team Rocket. However, due to the security cameras, Kai dared not wander aimlessly.

Pretending to head to the restroom, he planned to return to the lobby but spotted a shadowy figure darting around a corner in the corridor ahead.

Could it be Team Rocket?

Exchanging a glance with his Kirlia, Kai decided to follow quietly.

As he reached the corner, he carefully peeked out and saw the figure crouching in front of a guestroom door, using a lockpick to tamper with the lock.

It was a middle-aged man dressed in a brown trench coat over a suit and tie.

He was of average build, neither particularly slim nor heavy, with a serious but weary face that suggested frequent sleepless nights.

Kai's gaze shifted to the surveillance camera above. He noticed the feed had been blocked by a jamming device, which explained the man's boldness.

The man concentrated on his task, his lockpick working deftly. With a faint click, the door unlocked.

However, just as he was about to feel triumphant, the light from the hallway revealed a shadow creeping onto the door panel in front of him.

Startled, the man broke into a cold sweat.

He spun around, one hand instinctively reaching for his waist, only to find a young man, about 20 years old, watching him with an amused expression.

"Who... who are you?" the man stammered, his voice betraying a foreign accent due to his nervousness.

"Uncle, are you with Interpol?" Kai asked casually.

"Ah?" The man's expression shifted dramatically. His heart seemed to skip a beat as he hastily denied it. "What nonsense are you spouting? I'm not with Interpol!"

"Oh, really?" Kai replied with feigned innocence. He pulled out a wallet and waved it in front of the man. "But I found this wallet earlier, and it contains your Interpol ID photo."

The man's hand shot to the pocket on his back, only to find it empty.

"Ah... well..." He snatched the wallet back with an awkward smile. "Alright, you got me. I am with Interpol. But I'm currently investigating a major criminal organization, so please keep this a secret."

"A criminal organization?" Kai raised an eyebrow. "You mean Team Rocket?"

The man's composure crumbled further. He grabbed Kai's arm and led him to a nearby stairwell.

"are you from interpol? What's with this detective skills? How do you know about Team Rocket?" he whispered urgently.

Kai shrugged. "It's hardly a secret. They're infamous, with plenty of bounty posters to their name. I'd be more surprised to find a trainer who hasn't heard of them."

"Fair enough," the man admitted, casting a glance at Kai's Kirlia. "Are you a trainer?"

Kai pulled out his Pokédex and showed his identification. "Not just a trainer, but also a special research investigator for a research institute."

The man straightened his tie and adopted a more formal tone. "My apologies for not introducing myself earlier. My code name is Looker, and I'm currently investigating Team Rocket's operations in the Kanto region to put an end to their criminal activities."

"Looker?" Kai blinked, giving the man a once-over. "With that name, are you sure you're not just being narcissistic? You don't exactly scream 'Looker.'"

The man's face turned red, possibly from indignation or embarrassment, and he coughed a few times before responding. "It's just a code name! No need to read into it!"

Kai taunted. "Still, choosing 'Looker' as a code name is a bit... self-indulgent, don't you think?"

Looker sighed, clearly exhausted by the banter. "Let's move on. I still have work to do."

"Work? You mean breaking into that room?"

Looker hesitated but finally nodded. "Yes. While tracking a senior member of Team Rocket, I discovered he had boarded this ship the S.S. Anne. I suspect they have plans for this cruise, so I was trying to gather information while he was away."

"Well, that's a coincidence," Kai said, deciding to offer a clue. "Before boarding, I noticed a group of people sneaking onto the ship in disguise. If there's a Team Rocket squad here, it's probably them."

"What? A whole group!?" Looker's expression darkened. "This isn't good. If they've deployed multiple operatives, they must be planning something major. I need to contact headquarters immediately."

But just as he finished speaking, the ship's whistle sounded, and the vessel began to sway as it pulled away from the port.

"Hoooot!"

Looker rushed to a window, watching as the S.S. Anne departed. "This is bad. If I can't alert headquarters now, it'll be too late!"

He pulled out his phone, but his expression soured when he saw there was no signal.

"Damn it!" He moved around, trying different angles, but the result was the same. The signal was completely blocked.

Kai also checked his phone and confirmed there was no service.

Looker sighed and looked at Kai with a complicated expression. "You should leave this area. I'm heading to the captain's cabin to investigate. This is no place for civilians."

When Kai returned to the lobby, he saw Misty and Brock at a dining table, eagerly devouring their meals.

Ash sat beside them, uncharacteristically quiet, his expression melancholy.

"What's wrong, Ash? Did you lose your last battle?" Kai asked, puzzled.

Ash looked up at him with a rare seriousness. "No... I won."

"Then why the long face?" Kai pressed. "Did something else happen?"

----

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Chapter Text

----

After giving Ash a blank look, Misty said, "Although he won the battle just now, he traded his Butterfree for the opponent's Raticate."

"A trade?" Kai was taken aback for a moment but, recalling the plot, shook his head in disbelief. "Isn't Butterfree your partner? Why would you trade it away? Besides, you're not aiming to collect Pokédex entries, and Raticate isn't exactly a rare Pokémon. There's no real reason to make this trade."

"But…" Ash was visibly conflicted, his tone tinged with regret. "Brock agreed to the trade earlier."

"He was too busy gawking at the opponent's female companion to think straight. You know how he gets when he sees a pretty girl," Misty added, exasperated by Brock's habitual behaviour.

Since the trade had already happened, Kai didn't press Ash to reverse it immediately. After all, everyone learns through their experiences.

If Ash regretted the trade, it would be something he'd have to come to terms with on his own.

"That's right," Misty said, taking another bite of her cake before turning to Kai. "By the way, where did you go just now?"

"Just wandering around." Eyeing the cake in Misty's hands, Kai smiled and teased, "You're still growing, but you shouldn't eat too many sweets, or you'll gain weight."

Misty glanced at Kai and, though reluctant, slowly put the cake down, remembering something. ( Hmm...Most beautiful girl in the world )

At that moment, a whistle blew. The St. Anne had been sailing for quite some time now, and outside the windows, there was nothing but endless blue water no land or other ships in sight.

Sitting next to Misty, Kai had barely taken a few bites of his food when a loud bang echoed through the hall.

All the doors slammed shut, and a group of ominous figures appeared seemingly out of nowhere.

The intruders wore black hats, masks covering their faces, and black uniforms emblazoned with a red 'R.'

Each carried a device with multiple nozzles strapped to their backs and began surrounding the passengers.

Before anyone could react, the hall lights dimmed, and two figures, one male and one female, in white uniforms leapt onto a stack of tables. Amid mocking laughter, a spotlight illuminated them.

"Prepare for trouble"

"And make it double"

"To protect the world from devastation!"

"To unite all people within our nation!"

"To denounce the evils of truth and love!"

"To extend our reach to the stars above!"

"Jessie!"

"James!"

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

"Surrender now, or prepare to fight!"

"Meowth, that's right!"

Team Rocket's infamous trio had made their dramatic entrance.

Jessie, her long magenta hair flowing, stood with her hands on her hips and declared, "Today, Team Rocket is taking all the Pokémon here!"

"That's right!" James added, arms crossed. "And if anyone dares to interfere, they'll regret it!"

As the passengers stood frozen in shock, Team Rocket's black-uniformed grunts activated their devices.

A powerful suction force erupted, pulling Poké Balls from passengers' hands and belts. Chaos broke out as people struggled to hold onto their belongings.

From their position further back, Ash, Misty, and Kai weren't yet affected by the suction.

Watching the scene unfold, Kai remarked, "Just like in the anime… Team Rocket strikes again."

However, the passengers weren't about to give in. As Poké Balls began releasing their Pokémon, trainers rallied their partners to fight back.

Team Rocket's grunts mainly used Poison-type Pokémon like Ekans, Koffing, and Zubat.

The passengers' Pokémon varied but were mostly unevolved ones like Rattata, Pidgey, and Bellsprout.

Ash, Misty, and Brock soon joined the fray, commanding their Pokémon in the chaotic battle.

The clash intensified, with explosions and flames reducing the hall to shambles.

Still, it was clear that unless Team Rocket had a backup plan, their defeat was only a matter of time.

But could it really be that simple?

Kai observed calmly until He noticed something unusual on the second-floor balcony.

A man with a sharp appearance, codename Looker, was locked in battle with a Team Rocket officer sporting a purple mohawk.

The officer, with an air of menace, commanded two Pokémon: a Zubat with a sinister, gaping mouth and a Koffing spewing toxic gas.

Looker, on the other hand, had a Croagunk and a Growlithe by his side.

Recognizing the situation, Kai didn't hesitate. He dashed up the stairs to the second floor.

"Kai!" Looker called out, relief flashing across his face. He gestured toward the mohawked man. "This guy's name is Petrel
one of Team Rocket's four high-ranking commanders and the mastermind behind this heist. If we capture him, the entire operation will collapse!"

"Tch, don't interfere!" Petrel snarled "Interpol or not, anyone who gets in Team Rocket's way will pay the price!"

Kai quickly assessed the scene. Looking down at the chaotic hall, He said coldly, "Stop yapping, Kirlia, use Psychic!"

At his command, Kai's Kirlia unleashed a burst of psychic energy, slamming Petrel's Zubat to the ground.

The tide of the battle shifted immediately, and with Kai's intervention, Petrel
found himself outmatched.

Realizing he'd lost, Petrel grit his teeth and hissed, "Don't think this is over! We'll be back!" He then barked, "Koffing, use Smokescreen!"

Thick black smoke filled the area, obscuring everyone's vision. By the time the smoke cleared, Petrel and his Pokémon had vanished.

"Damn it!" Looker cursed, covering his nose as he scanned the area. "He got away…"

Despite Petrel's escape, the passengers and their Pokémon had largely regained control of the situation.

Team Rocket's heist had been thwarted, thanks to the combined efforts of everyone aboard.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Damn it!" Looker slammed his hand against the corridor railing. "I still let him get away!"

Before Kai could respond, Looker explained, "That was Petrel, a senior Team Rocket operative I've been tracking. I almost had him, but in the end, it slipped through my fingers!"

"You've already done well to stop this robbery," Kai reassured him. Then, with a sudden shift in tone, he added, "But now's not the time for self-reproach. The priority is dealing with the remaining Team Rocket grunts below!"

"You're right," Looker nodded firmly. "Let's move quickly!"

A gust of wind swept through, and the previously calm sea began to churn.

In the distance, the sky darkened, and a massive, ominous storm cloud steadily approached the S.S. Anne.

On the first floor of the ship, the combined efforts of passengers and Pokémon quickly drove off the Team Rocket grunts.

Scattered, they fled in all directions, disappearing in the chaos.

Even the skilled Interpol agent had reached his limit. He could only watch helplessly as the remaining Rocket members escaped.

With no way to bring all of them to justice on his own, he gave Kai his phone number, exchanged a brief farewell, and quietly departed.

Suddenly, a massive wave struck the ship, causing it to lurch violently.

Passengers were caught off guard, losing their balance and stumbling to the floor.

Reacting quickly, Kai grabbed a nearby table to steady himself. Before he could fully recover, a small figure collided with him.

It was Misty!

Kai instinctively wrapped an arm around her waist to keep her from falling. "Are you okay?" he asked with concern.

Misty blushed slightly, looked up at Kai, and gave a small nod.

The S.S. Anne rocked perilously as wave after wave-battered it. Its stabilizers struggled against the storm's intensity.

Passengers crowded around the windows, peering out at the darkened sky illuminated by streaks of lightning.

"It's a storm!" someone shouted, sparking immediate panic.

Brock helped Misty to her feet and sighed. "In weather like this, there's no way this ship can make it back."

Elsewhere, the ship's captain, who had been conspicuously absent, finally appeared.

Though flustered, he tried to put on a calm façade. "The storm caught us off guard," he admitted. "But rest assured, the S.S. Anne is a massive vessel, tested against harsh conditions. I guarantee it won't sink!"

No sooner had he said this than another wave slammed into the ship, sending everyone sprawling again.

When they scrambled to their feet, they spotted the captain making a beeline for the emergency exit, where he boarded a lifeboat.

"Everyone!" the captain called out, already seated in the lifeboat. "I guarantee this ship will not sink! Please remain calm!"

But seeing the captain fleeing, no one believed his words. The crowd surged toward the lifeboats in a chaotic frenzy of screams, shouts, and cries.

"Let's go too," Kai urged Misty and Brock. As they turned to leave, they noticed Ash was missing.

"Huh? Where's Ash?" Kai asked, scanning the crowd.

After a frantic search, they found Ash by a trading machine in the corner, exchanging Pokémon with a man in a suit.

"There he is!"

Rushing over, they saw the suited man notice Kai. "It's you!" the man exclaimed in surprise. "In such a short time, your Ralts have already evolved into Kirlia. It must be much stronger now!"

Kai responded with a polite nod but didn't elaborate.

Ash had just taken his Butterfree's Poké Ball from the machine when another violent wave shook the ship.

The ball slipped from his hands, rolling into a nearby corridor.

"But...Butterfree!" Ash cried, dashing after it. Misty and Brock, worried, followed close behind.

Kai hesitated, glancing back at the lifeboats. Now was the safest time to escape.

But logic told him that even in a lifeboat, the storm's waves would be perilous.

Shaking his head, he decided not to leave them behind and chased after Ash and the others into the corridor.

After sprinting down the hallway, they finally caught up to Ash. Just as he picked up the Poké Ball, the ship lurched with unprecedented force.

Kai felt his world flip upside down as his body was flung into the air, slamming hard against the wall.

The impact was brutal. When Kai finally got to his feet with the help of his Kirlia, he realized the S.S. Anne had capsized.

He could feel the ship sinking and heard the ominous sounds of water rushing in.

"It's sinking…" he muttered grimly.

Around him, Ash, Misty, and Brock were sprawled on the floor. Kai quickly roused them, and as they grasped the situation, their faces turned pale.

Another tremor shook the ship. It seemed to have settled on the ocean floor, leaving the corridors eerily still.

Miraculously, the lights remained on, indicating the power system was still functional for now.

"What do we do now?" Ash asked in a panic, staring out the window at the watery abyss. "The ship's completely sunk!"

"Calm down," Kai instructed firmly. "We need to find a way out before the water fills the ship completely!"

'Looks like we are getting the Titanic ending, but it's good that I don't have a female near me... hmm...wait...' Kai started to sweat Just imagining the situation.

Fortunately, the trapped air and the ship's construction gave them some time before the seawater fully flooded the interior.

The group moved cautiously through the overturned corridors. With the ship's layout reversed, "up" was now "down," and some areas were blocked off entirely. Pools of water made progress slow and treacherous.

Reaching a staircase, they found it completely submerged. Standing before the waterlogged steps, their path forward seemed uncertain.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Are we diving into the water next?" Ash asked.

Brock gently stirred the seawater with his hand, then said worriedly, "But if we dive down and swim for a long time only to find a dead end or a gate we can't open, we'll be in serious trouble."

"That's why we'll rely on our Pokémon!" Misty said as she pulled out a Poké Ball, releasing her Goldeen into the water. "Goldeen, go check out the situation and find us an escape route!"

Goldeen nodded, dove into the water, and disappeared quickly.

However, time passed, and it didn't return.

"Just as I thought..." Misty frowned. She was about to dive in herself when the water suddenly rippled.

After a moment, a dishevelled figure emerged, its head bobbing on the surface like a water ghost!

"Ahhhhhhhhhhh!!!!"

The unexpected sight startled everyone. Misty screamed and instinctively hid behind Kai, clutching the edge of his sleeve and trembling.

Unlike her, Kai was calmer. Forcing himself to stay composed, he observed the head as it rose further and realized it was Team Rocket's trio floating up.

"Don't worry, everyone. It's just Team Rocket," Kai said, patting Misty on the shoulder. She peeked out and sighed in relief when she recognized them.

"What in the world?! Why are they in the water?"

Jessie, James, and Meowth lay sprawled on the deck, coughing up seawater and looking utterly exhausted.

But the moment Misty's voice reached them, they jumped to their feet with surprising vigour.

Jessie snapped, "Of all the rotten luck! We run into you again?!"

The atmosphere grew tense as both sides reached for their Poké Balls. Jessie and James sent out Arbok and Koffing, while Ash and Brock countered with Squirtle and Geodude.

"Wait!" Misty stepped forward, waving her arms to stop the confrontation. "Hold on, all of you! My Goldeen just saved you from drowning! Look around this is no time to fight! If we don't work together to find a way out of here, we're all going down with the ship!"

Her words managed to stop the clash, though the two sides still eyed each other warily.

At that moment, James pointed at Kai and exclaimed, "Hey! It's you! Thanks for earlier if it weren't for you, I would've been scammed into buying that useless Magikarp!"

"Idiot!" Jessie slapped James on the head. "We're bad guys! We don't thank people!" She glanced at Kai, narrowing her eyes. "But wait... who is he?"

James flushed, unwilling to confess that he almost wasted their salaries on a Magikarp that could only flop around.

Kai stepped forward to defuse the situation. "Misty's right let's stop this nonsense. Time is running out!"

Reluctantly, both sides withdrew their Pokémon. Through their exchange, Kai and the others learned that Team Rocket hadn't evacuated the S.S. Anne in time.

When the ship capsized, the trio had tried to break through the hull to escape, only to flood the cabin further and get swept into the currents.

If not for Goldeen passing by, they might not have survived.

"Hmph!" Jessie crossed her arms smugly. "Don't think this is over. This is just a temporary truce! We'll deal with you later!"

Kai smirked. "Do you even have any Water-type Pokémon? We'll need to swim to escape soon, so maybe tone down the arrogance."

At this, the trio's faces fell as they realized their predicament. In an instant, they dropped their pride and bowed apologetically. "We're sorry! Please help us!"

Kai couldn't help but chuckle. Despite the tense situation, Team Rocket always managed to lighten the mood.

Once the Rockets were dealt with, the group could finally discuss their escape plan.

Brock stroked his chin thoughtfully. "So, how do we get out of here?"

"Leave it to me!" Misty declared confidently, puffing out her chest. "I once studied a model of the S.S. Anne. I know its structure well. Since the path below is blocked, we'll need to head upward. I remember the hull below the engine room is weak. If we break through there, we can escape!"

Ash and Brock nodded in agreement, but Kai raised a hand in objection.

"No, we can't break the bottom of the ship!"

"Why not?" Misty asked, puzzled.

"If we breach the hull, water will pour in from above. The pressure will be too intense to swim against, and the cabin will flood completely, leaving us no time to try another method if this fails."

Misty's eyes widened in realization. "I see! So, what's your idea?"

Kai explained, "Since the lower section is already submerged, we should have our Water-type Pokémon create an opening in the ship's wall where the water has pooled. That way, we'll face less water pressure when we escape."

"But..." Misty hesitated. "That'll take longer than going upward. Can we hold our breath that long?"

"Don't worry," Kai reassured her. "I just glanced out the window. The ship sank in a shallow area, and we're not far from the surface." He pointed to the water below them. "Look what's that?"

Everyone turned to see several empty plastic bottles floating nearby.

"Those bottles must've drifted here after being emptied. If we use them as makeshift air pockets, we'll get a few extra breaths, which should be enough to make it to the surface. Plus, the shallow depth means we don't need to worry about them getting crushed by water pressure."

Misty looked at Kai, impressed by his quick thinking. "That's brilliant!"

The others exchanged uncertain glances, but with Misty's support, they eventually nodded in agreement.

"All right," Ash said decisively. "Let's do it!"

----

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Chapter Text

----

As the Poké Ball was opened, Misty sent out her Goldeen and Starmie. Kai and Ash also released their respective Squirtles, and the four Water-type Pokémon dove into the water.

Together, they repeatedly tackled the ship's window.

The continuous impacts gradually weakened the window until it finally broke, leaving a large hole big enough for two people to pass through simultaneously.

Because the hole was already submerged underwater, no additional seawater rushed in, nor did it disrupt the cabin's air pressure.

When the Pokémon returned, Brock pulled out some drying ropes from his backpack and tied everyone to their respective Pokémon.

"Hey!" Jessie exclaimed anxiously when she saw everyone had a Water-type Pokémon. "What about us? We don't have any Water Pokémon!"

At that moment, Kai released his Magikarp.

In the anime, Team Rocket had once escaped a shipwreck using James's Magikarp.

Unexpectedly, even after changing owners, this Magikarp's fate seemed to remain the same.

James looked at the flopping Magikarp and immediately recognized it. "Ah! Isn't this the Magikarp from that shady salesman?!"

Kai nodded slightly. "That's right. I bought it for 500 Pokédollars."

"That scoundrel!" James clenched his fists in frustration. "He talked it up so much, but this Magikarp is only worth 500 Pokédollars!"

"Alright," Kai said, turning to Team Rocket. "Let this Magikarp take you out. But let me warn you just look at it. It's clumsy and might not understand human commands, so I'm not responsible if anything happens to you along the way."

"That's right!" Misty added. "And don't try anything sneaky, or we'll leave you behind!"

"Don't worry!" Team Rocket quickly shook their heads, adopting a humble demeanour. "We'd never dare cause trouble in a life-and-death situation!"

"Yeah, meow!" added Meowth.

Still, Kai pointed at Meowth. "Just in case, Meowth, you're coming with me."

"Me? Why? Meow?" Meowth asked, startled.

"Of course, you'll be my hostage," Kai replied flatly. He then turned to Jessie and James. "If you want Meowth back after we escape, take care of my Magikarp. Otherwise, I'll use it to settle the score."

Horrified at being made a hostage, Meowth stared at Kai, while Jessie muttered under her breath, "This guy's more villainous than we are!"

With everything arranged, Kai recalled his Kirlia into its Poké Ball and tied Meowth securely to his waist.

Brock, meanwhile, gathered a few empty plastic bottles and handed them out. "I don't know if this will help, but it's better than nothing. Everyone should take one."

Kai then took out his phone and snapped a few photos of the scene. Despite the dire situation, he considered it a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

He sealed his phone, Pokédex, and wallet in waterproof bags, double-wrapped them in a raincoat, and stored them in his backpack.

Finally, he pulled out a pair of diving goggles and a portable underwater rebreather.

Although he could swim, his underwater skills weren't great he couldn't move fast or keep his eyes open underwater like the others.

The rebreather, a small portable oxygen tank, could provide three minutes of air under normal conditions, though he wasn't sure how long it would last at this depth.

With everyone ready, Kai put the rebreather in his mouth, gave an "OK" gesture, and joined the others in the water.

The currents beneath the surface were relatively stable. Kai, tied to his Squirtle, was pulled along effortlessly.

After swimming down a corridor for several meters, they finally reached the shattered window.

One by one, they exited the cruise ship and began swimming toward the surface.

Sunlight filtered faintly through the water, casting shimmering patterns, though visibility was poor beyond a few meters. The surrounding darkness was vast and ominous.

Amid the faint light, Kai could see Misty's legs swaying ahead of him, resembling a mermaid's graceful movements.

As they swam, the plastic bottles in their mouths began deforming under the water pressure and their breathing.

One by one, they discarded the bottles after taking deep breaths.

A few meters further, Kai glanced back and noticed Jessie and James struggling.

Their ropes had become tangled, causing them to spin helplessly and generate resistance against Magikarp's efforts.

Seeing this, Kai pulled his rope to signal Squirtle, who turned back to assist.

Kai swam toward Jessie and James, attempting to untangle their ropes, but the knots were too tight to undo underwater.

Just then, Misty noticed the delay and swam back to help. Despite their combined efforts, the ropes wouldn't budge.

Finally, Meowth lost his patience, slashing James's rope with his sharp claws and freeing them.

Unfortunately, during the struggle, Jessie's foot accidentally kicked Misty in the stomach.

"Glub... glub... gurgle..."

Misty winced in pain and instinctively opened her mouth, releasing the last of her air in a stream of bubbles.

Noticing this, Kai immediately removed his rebreather and handed it to Misty. She quickly took it, inhaling deeply to regain her composure.

After a moment, Misty returned the rebreather to Kai, giving him a thumbs-up to signal she was fine.

Kai nodded in acknowledgement and motioned for Squirtle and Starmie to resume pulling them upward.

The rest of the journey went smoothly, with no further mishaps. The light above grew brighter as they ascended.

Finally, after several more meters, they broke through the surface and escaped the sinking ship.

----

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Chapter Text

----

On the surface of the sea, Ash and Brock, who had floated up moments before Kai, had already found some wooden planks from the wreckage and pieced them together into a makeshift raft.

Seeing Kai and the others emerge from the water, Ash quickly reached out to pull them aboard.

"Finally, we're safe!"

James collapsed onto the planks, soaked to the bone. Lying on his back, he stared up at the blue sky and white clouds, feeling as though he'd narrowly escaped a brush with death.

Kai removed his diving goggles, untied the rope around Meowth, and released him. At the same time, he returned the Magikarp to its Poké Ball.

Under the warm sun, the sea was calm. Debris from the St. Anne floated everywhere, but besides their small group, there wasn't another soul in sight.

Brock squinted, scanning the horizon. "It looks like everyone who escaped in the lifeboats has already left."

"What should we do now?" Ash asked. Then he noticed Misty sitting on her knees with her back to the group, her face flushed.

"That's strange. Misty, are you okay?"

Startled, Misty quickly stood up and shook her head. "It's nothing! I just swallowed a bit of water earlier and feel a little uncomfortable."

Though she tried to act normal, her gaze kept flicking toward the respirator in Kai's hand and then to the corner of his mouth. Her cheeks turned an even deeper red.

Approaching Kai, she seemed unusually subdued, speaking in a soft voice. "Thank you so much for earlier."

Kai immediately understood what she meant. In the moment of urgency, he hadn't had time to think of anything else; his focus had been solely on saving her life.

"You don't need to dwell on that," Kai said, coughing lightly. He sensed her embarrassment and decided not to elaborate. Instead, he turned to Ash. "Ash, send out Pidgeotto. Have it scout the area for passing ships or nearby islands."

Ash nodded, releasing Pidgeotto from its Poké Ball. The bird Pokémon soared above them, circling twice before flying off into the distance.

It wasn't long before Pidgeotto returned, landing on Ash's shoulder and gesturing animatedly with its wings.

As a Pokémon capable of understanding human speech, Meowth stepped in to translate. "It says there's a port town not far ahead!"

At the mention of a "port," everyone's spirits lifted. They immediately called on their water-type Pokémon to help guide the raft toward the town.

Maiden's Peak, a small port town situated near Vermilion City, awaited them.

Though modest in size, the town was bustling with activity. Its natural harbour and location on an important trade route made it a lively hub for passing ships and travellers.

As they reached the shore, setting foot on the soft sand, Team Rocket seemed to regain their energy.

Jessie and James dramatically produced roses from who-knows-where, striking their usual flamboyant poses.

Sniffing the flower delicately, Jessie sneered, "Now that we're here, it's time for us to say goodbye."

"Exactly!" James added, a rose clenched in his teeth. "Although we're grateful you saved us, don't expect mercy the next time we meet!"

"That's right, meow!" chimed in Meowth.

"Hahhahahahahahha...."

With a burst of maniacal laughter, the trio dashed off toward a large rock by the sea, disappearing from sight.

"I can't stand those guys," Misty sighed. "But honestly, I don't have the energy to deal with them right now. I just want a hot bath and a good night's sleep."

It wasn't just Misty who was exhausted. Kai, too, felt worn out after everything they'd been through.

"Let's head to the Pokémon Center and rest," Kai suggested, adjusting his backpack as they made their way into town.

However, just as he turned, a strange feeling overcame him. Glancing toward a small pier in the distance, he spotted a woman in a flowing white dress. Her long pink and purple hair swayed in the breeze, revealing a delicate and sorrowful expression.

For reasons he couldn't explain, a faint melancholy seemed to surround her.

Brock noticed her as well, his eyes instantly turning to hearts. "What a beautiful woman!"

Hearing this, Ash and Misty looked toward the pier, but neither saw anyone.

"What are you talking about?" Misty asked. "There's nothing there."

"Huh?"Kai blinked in confusion, and in that instant, the mysterious woman vanished.

After arriving at the Pokémon Center and checking in, Nurse Joy greeted them with a cheerful smile.

"Welcome! You're just in time. Our town is hosting a summer festival! There will be parades, bonfire parties, and plenty of delicious snacks. You shouldn't miss it!"

Misty's face lit up at the mention of the festivities, and even Ash seemed excited. However, they were all too exhausted to do much at the moment.

After agreeing on a time to meet later, they retreated to their rooms to rest.

The Maiden's Peak Pokémon Center was smaller than most, reflecting the town's modest size.

The male dormitory consisted of a single clean room with two bunk beds.

Though simple, the white sheets seemed to beckon Kai, tempting him to collapse right then and there.

Still, he resisted, opting to take a quick shower and toss his clothes into the dryer before finally allowing himself to fall onto the bed. Sleep came quickly.

The afternoon sun gave way to dusk by the time he stirred awake. Stretching, Kai glanced around to find Ash and Brock still asleep.

He woke them, then knocked on Misty's door, and the group reunited before heading out into the town.

By then, the festival was in full swing.

The streets were alive with laughter, and floats paraded through the town, accompanied by well-dressed locals and tourists.

Surrounded by the joy and cheer of the celebration, even the group's fatigue seemed to fade.

---

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----

Kai and the others joined the bustling crowd, moving forward slowly alongside the other tourists.

The street was lined with two rows of stalls, offering all kinds of delicious snacks and trinkets.

When Ash seemed interested in the treats, Kai bought a few to share with everyone.

At one point, Misty stopped in front of a jewellery booth, gazing at the display before walking away silently.

Noticing this, Kai approached the booth, carefully selected a hairpin, and gifted it to Misty.

A warm smile spread across Misty's face. Though she didn't say much, her expression made it clear she was delighted by the thoughtful gesture.

As in previous years, the festival was lively and vibrant. They walked further and came upon a woman dressed in elaborate attire, performing an exotic dance to music and the cheers of the crowd.

However, unlike Kai and the others, Brock had no interest in playing. He trailed behind with a lovesick expression, clearly still pining for the woman he met at the pier earlier.

He muttered softly under his breath, lost in thought.

"Please wait!"

A firm yet spirited voice called out from behind them.

Kai turned to see an elderly woman with white hair, standing less than a meter tall.

She leaned on a cane and wore a flowing purple robe. Her skin was dry, her mouth wide, and her sharp eyes glimmered with energy.

Brock, still daydreaming about the woman from before, turned to look and recoiled in shock. He stumbled and fell to the ground.

"W-Whoa! A... a shrivelled old kappa!"

"Who are you calling a kappa!?" the old woman snapped angrily. She glanced between Kai and Brock, her expression mysterious. "Listen closely! Beware of beautiful women, or misfortune will find you today!"

"What are you talking about!?" Misty exclaimed, stealing a quick glance at Kai. A slight blush rose to her cheeks. "How could I bring him bad luck?"

"ugly child!" the old woman retorted. "I'm not talking about brats like you!"

"What!? Did you just call me a Ugly!?" Misty's face turned red with indignation. Clearly, the comment struck a nerve.

Brock, meanwhile, seemed to take the woman's words seriously, pondering them deeply.

Only Kai, who suspected the elderly woman might be a ghost in disguise, observed her calmly, choosing not to dwell on her cryptic warning.

Misty, determined not to let the encounter ruin their rare festival outing, huffed. "What nonsense! Let's not waste our time here. Come on!"

Grabbing Kai by the back and tugging Brock by the ear, she led the group away.

The festival's path eventually led to a shrine at the edge of town.

When they arrived, an elderly priest was performing a ritual, ringing a bell and beating a drum to mark the hour.

"Everyone, quiet please!" he announced. "The Maiden Shrine's treasure will now be unveiled!"

Beside the priest stood a large scroll covered with a white cloth, obscuring the image beneath. The crowd gathered closer, murmuring in anticipation.

"This painting has been a sacred treasure of the Maiden Shrine for over 2,000 years," the priest explained. "It is displayed only once a year during the summer festival. Please, observe it with reverence."

With a flourish, he removed the cloth, revealing the scroll.

The painting depicted a full-body portrait of a woman. Her hands were clasped at her chest as if in prayer, and her sorrowful eyes gazed forward.

Despite being rendered only in black and white, the portrait radiated beauty and melancholy.

Brock gasped in astonishment. "That's... that's the woman I saw at the pier earlier!"

The priest continued, his voice solemn. "Two thousand years ago, there was a young couple deeply in love. When war broke out, the man was drafted into the army and sent overseas. Before departing, he promised to return in triumph once the war was won."

"The woman waited for years, longing for his return. But he never came back. Consumed by endless waiting, she turned into stone, standing on the cliff where she last saw him. To this day, she remains there, waiting for her beloved."

The crowd fell silent, moved by the tragic tale.

Brock, as if possessed, suddenly asked, "Where is this rock now?"

The priest looked surprised. "You mean Maiden Statue?"

Night had fallen, blanketing the land in darkness.

The group found themselves on a rugged cliff path by the sea. A solitary wooden house stood nearby, illuminated faintly by the moonlight.

Rounding the corner, they spotted the stone statue of a woman perched on a cliff overlooking the water.

The statue, worn by the passage of time, seemed fused with the surrounding rock.

The waves crashed against the reef below, and the town's festival lights twinkled in the distance.

Despite the faint echoes of celebration, the atmosphere here felt heavy and still.

Gazing at the statue, Misty whispered, "Do you think this really was a woman once?"

Kai shook his head. "Who knows? At least I don't see any signs of it being carved by human hands."

A sudden gust of wind swept through, carrying a cool chill. The moon disappeared behind thick clouds.

Sensing an ominous presence, Kai instinctively reached for two Poké Balls. In a flash of red light, his Charmander and Jolteon appeared by his side.

The flames on Charmander's tail and the sparks from Jolteon lit up their surroundings, offering both illumination and reassurance.

"There's nothing more to see here. Let's head back to town," Kai said.

But just as Misty turned to leave, the door of the wooden house creaked open.

Creeeak...

At first, she thought it was the wind. But the next moment, a glowing, blurry figure floated out of the doorway.

"A-Aah! A ghost!!" Misty screamed.

----

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----

Hearing Misty's scream, Kai and the others hurriedly turned their heads and saw the so-called ghost.

The ghost's shape was identical to the woman in the portrait. She floated in the air, her body transparent and blurry, slowly gliding toward them.

"I miss you so much," the ghost softly murmured.

Kai didn't feel anything unusual, but Brock, captivated by her beauty, stood mesmerized.

"I miss you too..." Brock muttered dazedly.

The ghost looked at them, her expression softening. "I've been waiting for you to come back," she whispered.

Suddenly, a strange wind blew through the room. In the next moment, Kai and Brock's bodies were enveloped in the wind and began to float uncontrollably toward the ghost.

The suction was so strong that Kai instinctively reached out to grab something, but there was nothing nearby.

As he was pulled closer and closer, a pair of delicate hands suddenly grabbed his wrist.

It was Misty.

Seeing Kai being pulled away, Misty ignored her fear of ghosts.

"Where do you think you're taking them?!" she shouted angrily.

Gripping Kai's hand tightly, she pulled with all her strength. Despite being a young girl without much physical power, she refused to let go, even as the strange wind howled around her.

Realizing the ghost was a disguised Gastly, Kai seized the opportunity Misty gave him and shouted, "Charmander, use Ember! Jolteon, use Thunder Shock!"

Flames and lightning shot toward the ghost simultaneously.

The ghost let out a cry as the attacks struck. Losing control of the wind, the suction dissipated, and Kai and Brock plummeted to the ground.

Misty instinctively tried to catch Kai, but he crashed into her, knocking them both over. Brock, meanwhile, landed heavily on the floor.

The impact seemed to snap Brock out of his trance.

"What... what happened?" he asked groggily, looking around in confusion. Since entering Maiden's Gorge, his mind had been foggy, as if bewitched.

The ghost, frustrated by the interference, snarled, "You meddling fools! Stop interfering!"

With her words, a swarm of skeletal figures appeared, flying overhead with eerie wails.

"What are those things?!" Misty cried, clutching Kai's arm in fear.

Kai stood up, glancing at the others, who appeared paralyzed by fear. He shouted, "Don't worry! It's just a Pokémon!"

Ash Pulling out his Pokédex, he aimed it at the ghost.

Pokédex: "Gastly, the Gas Pokémon. Ghost and Poison type. Born from poisonous gas, Gastly is skilled at hypnosis and enjoys pranks. It can make itself invisible and pass through solid objects."

"Just a Gastly!?" Ash and Misty said in astonishment.

The ghost's form began to shift. She first morphed into an elderly woman cloaked in purple before transforming into a black, smoke-shrouded orb with sharp eyes and a fanged grin.

"Sometimes, I'm a legendary beauty. Other times, a mysterious fortune-teller. But my true form is... Gastly!"

Kai and the others stared at the Pokémon, whose mischievous grin only widened.

Ash exclaimed, "A real Pokémon!? Alright, let's battle! Pikachu, I choose you!"

"Pika! Pikachu!"

Gastly chuckled. "Battle? I'm in a hurry, so let me finish this quickly!"

Circles of ghostly energy emanated from Gastly, launching Hypnosis attacks at the group.

Recognizing the move, Kai shouted, "Watch out! It's Hypnosis!"

But before anyone could react, the hypnotic waves passed over them. One by one, Kai, his friends, and their Pokémon fell into a deep sleep.

Gastly surveyed the sleeping trainers with satisfaction. "Too easy," it said smugly. "Now, back to business!"

The strange wind returned, wrapping around Brock. Gastly turned toward Kai, but its expression changed when it noticed a red flash from one of Kai's Poké Balls.

A Pokémon emerged a Kirlia with green hair and an elegant, human-like form.

"Oh? You came out on your own? Are you trying to protect your trainer?" Gastly sneered. "But your Psychic moves are no match for my Ghost type. It's pointless to resist!"

Kirlia, aware of its disadvantage, didn't attack directly. Instead, it used its psychic power to release the rest of Kai's Pokémon from their Poké Balls.

In a flurry of red light, the rest of Kai's team appeared, including his prized Zapdos.

Gastly's gaze swept over the group of Kirlia, Ivysaur, and Squirtle and finally rested on the proud Zapdos.

"Four against one? I see this trainer has some impressive Pokémon... what the hell even a Zapdos!!" Gastly said with a nervous grin.

"Krrrraaakkk" (I want to Taste a Roasted Gastly, today)

Zapdos raised its head arrogantly, its electric aura crackling with power.

Intimidated by Zapdos, Gastly hesitated. After a moment, it sighed. "Fine. I'll let you off this time... but I'm taking him with me!"

Before anyone could stop it, Gastly vanished, taking Brock with it.

When Kai woke up, he found himself lying on the ground. Kirlia stood by his side, looking worried.

"You let yourself out?" Kai asked softly, rubbing its head.

Sitting up, he noticed Ash, Misty, Pikachu, Charmander, and Jolteon all sleeping nearby. However, Brock was nowhere to be found.

Looking around, he spotted the rest of his Pokémon, including Zapdos.

'Even Zapdos' Kai thought, piecing together the events.

----

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----

At the Pokémon Center, Nurse Joy examined Brock and confirmed that he was merely exhausted. Relieved, the group let out a collective sigh.

No matter how much they prodded him, Brock couldn't remember anything after being taken by Gastly. His memories were a complete blank.

After settling him into bed in the dormitory, Kai instructed Ash to watch over him before leaving the Pokémon Center alone.

Though dealing with the ghost would be challenging, Kai had made up his mind to capture it.

As a wild Pokémon that had lived for centuries, its abilities were bound to be extraordinary.

Most importantly, it could speak human language just like Team Rocket's Meowth!

Such a Pokémon would be invaluable for better communication with his team, eliminating the need for guesswork.

But where was Gastly now?

It was already 2 a.m., and the night felt darker than ever. Kai surveyed his surroundings and decided to head to Maiden's Statue by the seaside cliffs, hoping to find a clue.

Following the mountain path out of the town, he soon reached his destination.

However, the scene was as empty as before, with only the sound of waves crashing below and the salty breeze filling the air.

"Gastly, are you here?" Kai called out, his voice echoing into the distance. There was no response.

"Not here, huh?" He muttered, stepping closer to Maiden's Rock. "Maybe I should just destroy this Statue and solve the problem!"

"Hey!" A voice snapped behind him. "I can't just ignore a threat like that!"

Kai turned with a sly smile, spotting Gastly hovering in the air.

"Gastly, let's battle!"

"Oh?" Gastly's tone grew serious. "You want to capture me?"

Kai pulled a Poké Ball from his belt and enlarged it. "Of course! I will solve the current problem & get a strong Pokemon with it!"

"Arrogant aren't you?" Gastly Commented with a sly smile

With that, Kai tossed the Poké Ball, and in a flash of red light, his Jolteon appeared. Its sleek fur crackled with electricity as it growled confidently.

"A Jolteon?" Gastly sounded mildly surprised, though more amused than alarmed. "I thought you'd bring out that Zapdos. Against a legendary Pokémon, even I wouldn't stand a chance."

'You think I don't want to? If only I could actually control it!' Kai chuckled.

"Don't worry," he said aloud, crossing his arms. "Even if Jolteon loses, I won't use Zapdos against you." He gave a confident smirk. "Let's cut the chatter and get started! Jolteon, use Thunder Shock!"

Jolteon's fur sparked with electricity, sending a bolt of lightning toward Gastly.

Gastly countered by summoning a swirling black Shadow Ball, which collided with the Thunder Shock midair.

The Shadow Ball's power easily overpowered the Thunder Shock, continuing toward Jolteon.

"Jolteon, dodge!" Kai commanded. "Then use Pin Missile!"

Jolteon leapt nimbly to the side, avoiding the Shadow Ball. The spines on its back bristled like steel needles before launching a barrage of Pin Missiles toward Gastly!

----

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---

Facing the roaring attack, a mysterious gust of wind blew through, scattering all the Pin Missile needles.

Kai asked curiously, "What kind of move is that?"

"Jie Jie~" Gastly replied proudly, "During my long life, I haven't just learned human speech I've also picked up many abilities like this!"

As if to demonstrate, Gastly transformed into Luxray with a mischievous grin.

Kai couldn't help but complain, "That's a strong foul! And isn't transforming the ability of Ditto? How can you do it too?"

Glancing at Kirlia, Gastly seemed to trust Kai slightly more after observing his earlier actions.

Cancelling the transformation, Gastly explained, "Actually, it's just Hypnosis, but my version doesn't put people to sleep. It directly affects the real world!"

Kai frowned 'Is it really that powerful?'

The sensation of the wind brushing against his cheek felt undeniably real.

Hypnosis shouldn't be able to do that. Still, Gastly was clearly extraordinary, defying conventional understanding.

"Jolteon, use Thunder Fang!"

Sparks crackled between Jolteon's sharp teeth as it lunged toward Gastly with incredible speed.

But just as the attack was about to connect, Gastly's form seemed to vanish, swept away like a breeze!

"Jie Jie!"

Gastly reappeared beside Jolteon, extending its long, eerie tongue to give a playful lick.

Jolteon shuddered violently, attempting to jump back, but it froze in place, paralyzed and unable to move.

"Electricity tastes funny," Gastly chuckled, forming a Shadow Ball and launching it straight at Jolteon.

The attack hit directly, and Jolteon collapsed and fainted.

"A one-hit knockout? Is there such a big difference in strength?"

Kai recalled Jolteon, looking at Kirlia.

"It's your turn."

Kirlia nodded, stepping forward to face Gastly.

"Trying to wear me down with repeated battles?" Gastly sneered. "But you know Psychic-types can't beat me, right?"

"Of course I know." Kai grinned, pulling the remaining Poké Balls from his bag and tossing them onto the field. "Which is why Kirlia isn't fighting alone!"

Ivysaur, Squirtle, and Charmander appeared, lining up beside Kirlia.

"Ah, so it's a team effort." Gastly rolled its eyes but didn't seem bothered.

"What choice do I have?" Kai smiled. "Your battle with Jolteon made me realize your strength. Conventional methods won't work if I want to catch you!"

Gastly paused before asking, "Why are you so determined to catch powerful Pokémon? Is winning the Pokémon League really that important to you?"

"Well…" Kai thought for a moment. "Life is full of ups and downs. While the Pokémon League isn't everything, it's both a dream and a goal of mine. What about you? Don't you have something you want to pursue?"

"A dream? A goal?" Gastly murmured. As a Pokémon that loved pranks, it had spent countless years amusing itself without ever considering such ideas.

Kai's eyes sparkled, 'A chance!'

"Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!"

The green, glowing leaves spun toward Gastly.

"Hey! Sneak attacking now? That's low!" Gastly dodged hastily, only to be hit by a Water Gun from Squirtle.

"This isn't low it's decisive!" Kai called out. "Charmander, use Ember!"

The Water Gun grazed Gastly, and as it regained balance, a stream of fiery sparks struck its face.

"Enough!" Gastly snarled, disappearing again only to reappear and take another hit this time from Ivysaur's Razor Leaf.

The continuous attacks left Gastly flustered. Its expression darkened as it emitted a wave of light energy that enveloped all of Kai's Pokémon.

'I can't counter this yet' Kai's heart sank.

"Charmander, use Smokescreen!" he yelled.

Charmander exhaled a dense, black smoke, quickly shrouding the area.

"Trying to obscure my vision to lower Hypnosis' accuracy?" Gastly cackled. "A clever idea, but too naive!"

Gastly focused intently. The light waves accelerated, expanding into an area-wide attack. Within moments, all of Kai's Pokémon fell asleep.

Kai was at a loss.

Gastly floated above the smoky battlefield, launching its final move. Wisps of pink energy flowed from the sleeping Pokémon into Gastly, who glowed with renewed vigour.

"Dream Eater!" Kai muttered as his Pokémon collapsed, completely defeated.

As the smoke cleared, Kai surveyed his unconscious team and sighed deeply.
"This Gastly is far stronger than any of its kind. Not even battling Zapdos felt this hopeless."

Recalling his Pokémon, Kai admitted, "I lost."

Gastly floated closer, studying him.
"No, you haven't."

It glanced at the Poké Ball holding Zapdos and smirked. "You still have a Legendary Pokémon. Without sending it out, this isn't a proper loss. Besides, I've used a lot of energy too. Let's call it a tie."

"Huh?" Kai blinked in surprise, unprepared for Gastly's unexpected words.

Gastly continued, "You're an interesting Trainer. I may not have any dreams yet, but I do want to leave this place and see the world. Winning the Pokémon League sounds like a worthy adventure."

Kai's heart leapt.
"Are you saying…?"

Gastly grinned. "That's right. I acknowledge you. Take out your Poké Ball I'll be your Pokémon and help you achieve your dream!"

----

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----

Kai took out a Poké Ball and carefully extended it toward Gastly.

Without hesitation, Gastly tapped the button, allowing its body to be enveloped in the red light and pulled into the ball.

The Poké Ball shook slightly before stopping with a soft "click."

It worked!?

Before Kai could celebrate, the Poké Ball suddenly opened, and Gastly floated back out.

"I really can't stand the environment in there it's dark and cramped," Gastly grumbled, shaking its gaseous body. "I'm used to being free. I much prefer staying outside."

Kai shrugged. "That's fine. Honestly, I don't like travelling alone anyway. It'd be nice to have a Pokémon by my side."

Gastly nodded and floated toward Maiden Rock once more.

"The summer festival has ended for this year, but your legend will continue to be told," Kai remarked.

A faint, translucent figure of a woman appeared from the Maiden Statue. It was the spirit of the maiden herself!

"Thank you, Gastly," she said softly.

"Oh, don't mention it," Gastly replied with a grin. "I just wanted to make sure this fading legend stayed alive in people's memories."

The spirit clasped her hands together. "For so long, I've remained here, waiting to reunite with him. No matter how long it takes, I'll continue to wait."

Gastly moved aside to let the spirit see Kai and added, "You heard what she said earlier. I'm going on a journey now, but if I happen to meet your lover somewhere, I promise to pass along your message."

"Thank you so much!"

The maiden's tone brightened. Slowly, she floated back toward Maiden Statue and vanished, leaving behind a gentle, lingering warmth.

By the time Kai returned to the Pokémon Center, dawn was breaking. Stepping into the warm room, his exhaustion finally caught up with him, making his eyelids heavy.

Ash was sound asleep, but Brock stirred awake, having already rested plenty during the day. His complexion looked much better after a full recovery.

"Why are you back so late?" Brock asked, rubbing his eyes.

Kai yawned. "I stayed out to handle the Gastly situation."

Suddenly remembering something, Kai turned to Brock and said, "Gastly gave you some trouble earlier. Why don't you let it apologize?"

"You caught it?" Brock asked in surprise.

Kai didn't respond, but a black sphere wreathed in purple mist emerged from his shadow and floated into view.

"Whoa!" Brock exclaimed, startled. His yell woke Pikachu, who blinked curiously, while Ash merely rolled over, still fast asleep.

"Hey, small-eyed man!" Gastly cackled. "Apart from being a hopeless flirt, you scare way too easily. What happened earlier was just a little prank, no hard feelings, right?"

Brock, ever good-natured, chuckled. "I wasn't really upset about it anyway. Apology accepted."

Kai glanced at his phone to check the time. "I'll probably sleep in for a while. When Ash wakes up, you should head out without me. I'll stay here for another day or two. If fate allows, we'll meet again."

Brock was puzzled. "Isn't the Gastly situation resolved? Why stay longer?"

Kai didn't explain further, only nodding as Brock said, "Alright. Take care, then."

After a quick wash, Kai collapsed into bed. When he opened his eyes again, it was already afternoon.

The past few days of nighttime adventures and little rest had left his biological clock in chaos, and even now, he felt drained.

Ash, Misty, and Brock had long since left. Misty had initially wanted to stay behind with Kai, but since he hadn't asked her to, she reluctantly continued the journey with Ash.

Kai's decision to remain stemmed from his desire to preserve the legend of Maiden Statue.

Experiencing it firsthand had convinced him that true, unwavering love existed.

However, Gastly's earlier approach wasn't sustainable it was inefficient and didn't help spread the story effectively.

Now that Gastly was his Pokémon, Kai felt a responsibility to ensure the legend endured.

He documented everything that had happened at Maiden Statue and visited the Maiden Shrine to speak with the old priest.

The priest shared tales of love and tragedy from 2,000 years ago. Combining these accounts with his own experience, Kai crafted a poignant, heartwarming story.

Recalling a past conversation with Chloe, he remembered her mentioning her mother, Talia, who was both an artist and an aspiring illustrator.

Kai emailed the story to Chloe, asking if her mother could help by adding illustrations.

Chloe responded with a simple "OK" emoji.

Shortly after, an unfamiliar number called him.

Answering, Kai heard a cheerful voice on the other end. "Hello, this is Talia Cerise. Is this Kai?"

Realizing this was Chloe's mother, Kai replied politely, "Yes, ma'am. It's a pleasure to speak with you."

Talia continued, "Chloe told me about you. The story you sent is beautifully written! I've heard the legend of Maiden Rock before, but I didn't know it was true!"

Kai smiled. "It's hard to believe, but I did see the maiden's spirit myself. However, I'd appreciate it if you kept this quiet too much attention could bring harm to the site."

"Of course," Talia assured him. "My husband's research also requires discretion. Chloe mentioned you'd like some illustrations for your story?"

"Yes," Kai admitted, "but I hate to trouble you. After learning the full legend, I feel it's important to preserve and share it."

Talia laughed lightly. "No trouble at all! After all, you're part of the Cerise Lab family. In fact, instead of simple illustrations, how about turning it into a full manga or a comic?"

----

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----

"Manga?" Kai raised an eyebrow, surprised. He hadn't considered that direction before.

Yoshino Cerise smiled. "That's right! Compared to plain text and illustrations, manga can better convey the excitement of the story. Plus, it's much more appealing to younger audiences."

"Wouldn't that be a lot of work?" Kai asked hesitantly.

"Well, it is more involved," Yoshino admitted, her voice brimming with enthusiasm. "But you've already laid out the structure and framework of the story. All I need to do is bring it to life visually. Besides, I have free time at home, and this could fulfil one of my dreams."

Hearing her eagerness, Kai had no reason to refuse. They discussed some details before ending the call.

Since the plan had changed, Kai messaged Misty, letting her know they didn't need to wait for him.

He suggested they proceed to challenge the Saffron City Gym without him.

For the next two days, Kai remained in Maiden Peak, gathering materials and staying in contact with Yoshino.

He frequently shared expanded details and resources to help her enrich the manga.

On the third day, Yoshino called, excitedly announcing she had finished the first draft of over twenty pages.

Feeling his task there complete, Kai set off for Vermilion City.

Professor Cerise's house was a traditional Japanese-style home, not far from the Cerise Laboratory.

Having heard of Kai's arrival, Dr. Cerise waited at home instead of heading to the lab.

Being a Saturday, the entire family, including Chloe and her younger brother, Sota/Parker, came out to greet him. Even Yamper scurried over, wagging its tail enthusiastically.

Seeing the cheerful family, Kai couldn't help feeling slightly awkward. Why does this feel like meeting future in-laws for the first time… and I didn't even bring a gift?

Dr. Cerise was the first to speak. "Welcome, Kai! Please, come in."

Kai nodded politely, his gaze briefly passing over Sota before settling on Yoshino. "It's a pleasure to meet you, ma'am. Thank you for having me."

Yoshino, wearing red-framed round glasses, bore a resemblance to Chloe, though her features were softer and more mature. Her long, cherry-coloured hair was styled in a side braid resting over her left shoulder.

Sota, on the other hand, resembled Dr. Cerise a calm and composed boy who appeared more reliable than his years.

Kai slipped on the guest slippers and followed them into the living room.

Yoshino retrieved a clear file from a shelf and handed it to Kai, revealing the first twenty pages of manga inside.

"I've completed these so far," Yoshino explained. "If I continue at this pace, I estimate the full story will require around 190 pages."

Kai admired her precision and dedication. Flipping through the pages, he couldn't help but marvel. "These are incredible! It's such a pity you aren't a professional manga artist."

Yoshino chuckled, clearly pleased. "And your story is wonderfully written! A great story paired with great artwork that's the key to making something truly memorable."

Chloe nodded in agreement. "I'm the first reader of this manga, and it's captivating."

"I'm the second reader!" Sota added proudly, reclining with his hands behind his head. "Dad's the third."

Suddenly, Sota squinted at Kai's shadow, where he thought he saw a round head making a goofy face.

"Heh"

Rubbing his eyes, he leaned in closer just as Gastly emerged with a mischievous grin!

"BOO!"

"AHHH!" Sota yelped, jumping so high he tumbled over the back of the couch.

Gastly cackled. "Jeez, what a scaredy-cat!"

Dr. Cerise helped Sota up, smiling as he examined Gastly. "Is this the Gastly from the story?"

"That's right," Kai confirmed, gently nudging Gastly aside. "In a way, Gastly is the main character."

Sota, undeterred by his earlier fright, quickly became fascinated. He leaned closer to Gastly, peppering it with questions about how it hid in Kai's shadow.

At noon, the Cerise family invited Kai to stay for lunch. The meal was filled with laughter and lighthearted conversation, making the table feel warm and welcoming.

When Kai shared underwater photos he'd taken during the S.S. Anne incident, the entire family was astonished.

Professor Cerise adjusted his glasses, his expression serious. "The sinking of the S.S. Anne made headlines across Kanto. I can't believe you not only experienced it but also explored the ocean floor afterwards and survived!"

Chloe looked at Kai as if seeing him in a new light.

Sota's eyes sparkled with admiration. "You're so cool, Kai!"

After finalizing a timeline with Yoshino for completing the manga, Kai resumed his journey, heading toward Saffron City.

Golden sunlight bathed the skyline as Kai entered the bustling city a dazzling hub of modernity in the Kanto region.

Saffron City boasted towering skyscrapers, a thriving commercial district, and the most advanced infrastructure in the area.

It even housed a maglev train station connecting Kanto and Johto, where trains sped between Saffron and Goldenrod City at 550 kilometres per hour, fueling both regions' economies.

Walking through the busy streets, Kai arrived at the Saffron Gym.

The building's exterior resembled a cluster of interconnected white umbrellas, their curved structures lending the gym a futuristic yet minimalist design.

Compared to other gyms, it felt slightly less impressive to Kai, but it still exuded an air of sophistication.

Entering through the automated doors, Kai found the main hall empty. He walked further, peeking through a side window, and spotted a group of people in lab coats sitting at a table.

Each held a spoon, concentrating intently it seemed they were practising psychic techniques.

----

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----

As Kai stepped into the gym's main hall, the sound of footsteps echoed behind him.

A middle-aged man wearing a baseball cap, a scruffy beard, and casual attire approached.

"What brings you here?" the man asked curtly.

"Hello," Kai replied politely. "I'm here to challenge the Gym Leader, Sabrina. Is she available?"

The man nodded, his gaze shifting to Kirlia beside Kai.

"You're interested in Psychic-type Pokémon, huh? But... you don't seem to have any psychic potential yourself."

Kai blinked in confusion. "Psychic powers? Why would I need those? I'm here for a Pokémon battle, not a magic show."

"M-Magic show!?" The man's face turned red as he coughed in disbelief. He waved Kai along. "Come with me. But don't say I didn't warn you without psychic abilities, you can't fully unlock the potential of a Psychic-type Pokémon!"

Kai smiled faintly but didn't argue. He gave Kirlia an encouraging pat on the head and followed. If only he knew...

The corridor led to a grand battlefield. Marble tiles stretched across the floor, flanked by tall stone pillars that reached the ceiling.

Torches burned brightly on the sidelines, casting flickering shadows across the room. It felt less like a gym and more like an ancient temple.

On the far side, a striking woman sat silently on a raised platform. Her sleek black hair framed her pale face, and her piercing eyes watched him intently.

Dressed in a red leather skirt and long black stockings, she exuded an intimidating presence.

This was Sabrina, the Gym Leader of Saffron City.

"Sabrina, another challenger has arrived," the middle-aged man said, stepping into the centre of the battlefield to act as the referee.

Without a word, Sabrina rose from her chair. To Kai's amazement, she floated effortlessly to the trainer's platform, her feet never touching the ground.

"Impressive," Kai murmured, envious of her psychic abilities.

"I sensed your arrival," Sabrina said coldly, her voice devoid of emotion. Her sharp gaze flicked to Kai's shadow, and a faint smirk appeared. "You carry a disruptive presence... that mischievous spirit hiding in your shadow."

Kai wasn't surprised. Sabrina's psychic abilities were legendary, after all.

He recalled her backstory vividly: Sabrina had awakened her psychic powers as a child but became consumed by them.

She isolated herself, shut out emotions, and estranged her family once even turning her mother into a doll and banishing her father.

This obsession led to the emergence of two personalities: the cold and powerful Sabrina, and a lonely, mischievous side longing for connection.

But thanks to Ash and his Haunter, Sabrina had recently reconciled with her family.

Though she still carried an air of aloofness, she was no longer consumed by her powers.

Kai glanced at the middle-aged man. That must be her father.

"Let's begin," Kai said, snapping out of his thoughts. "What are the rules?"

Sabrina's expression remained impassive. "A one-on-one battle. If you defeat my Pokémon, you earn the Marsh Badge."

She produced a Poké Ball, and with a flash of light, her Alakazam materialized a golden humanoid Pokémon with a thick moustache and a spoon in each hand.

Kai nodded to Kirlia, who stepped forward, ready for battle.

"Not using your Ghost-type Pokémon?" Sabrina asked.

Kai shook his head. "Kirlia needs the training. Using a Ghost-type would be too one-sided."

"Arrogant, aren't you?" Sabrina asked with a stoic face.

As if on cue, a Haunter floated into the battlefield. It circled Sabrina playfully before noticing Gastly peeking out of Kai's shadow.

"Kehehehe"

With a delighted laugh, it zipped over, and the two Ghost-types began making silly faces at each other.

Kai smiled. 'That's Ash's Haunter. Looks like it decided to stay with Sabrina instead of returning to Lavender Tower.'

With the battlefield set, Kai called out, "Kirlia, use Psychic!"

Kirlia raised its delicate hands, unleashing a powerful wave of psychic energy that surged toward Alakazam.

Sabrina didn't speak, but Alakazam raised a spoon, countering with its own psychic force.

The two energies clashed mid-air, creating a dazzling burst of light.

Kirlia strained under the pressure, its movements slowing as Alakazam's superior psychic power overwhelmed it.

Kai observed Alakazam with a calm expression.

"Magic Leaf!" Kai commanded.

Kirlia summoned a flurry of glowing leaves that zipped toward Alakazam in an unpredictable pattern.

Without a word, Sabrina's Alakazam used Teleport, vanishing and reappearing several feet away, dodging the attack effortlessly.

Kai clenched his fists. Of course. Telepathy. Sabrina doesn't need to speak to give commands.

Sabrina's expression remained unreadable, but her focus was unshakable. "Psychic," she finally said.

Alakazam's eyes glowed, and Kirlia was lifted off the ground, writhing as it was thrown across the battlefield.

"Kirlia!" Kai shouted.

The Psychic-type Pokémon struggled to stand but nodded to Kai, determined to keep fighting.

Kirlia's resilience brought a faint smile to Sabrina's face. "Interesting. Let's see how far you can push yourself."

---

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----

As the battle continued, Alakazam launched another Psychic attack. The move struck Kirlia, lifting it into the air.

However, Kirlia resisted with its own psychic power, breaking free from the grip after a brief struggle.

"Kirlia, use Magical Leaf!" Kai commanded.

The shimmering green leaves shot toward Alakazam, but as before, it deftly avoided the attack by teleporting.

This time, however, Kai was prepared. With a silent command, Kirlia, understanding his intent, unleashed a Psychic attack the moment Alakazam reappeared.

Caught off guard, Alakazam faltered. Though it managed to shake off the attack, the damage was evident.

The battle was evenly matched so far.

Sabrina observed calmly, "Even without psychic abilities, you can communicate with your Pokémon effectively. That's impressive. It seems your Kirlia is well-trained."

"You and your Alakazam are formidable!" Kai responded sincerely. "In terms of sheer psychic strength, my Kirlia doesn't measure up."

A faint smile touched Sabrina's lips, though her expression remained stoic.

Being praised by another trainer wasn't something she often encountered, but she didn't allow it to affect her focus. Her next move came with no mercy.

Alakazam's eyes glowed red, unleashing a pulse of Psychic energy a Dazzling Gleam. The attack rippled toward Kirlia, with a chance to confuse it.

"Kirlia, use Teleport!" Kai called out.

Kirlia vanished, narrowly avoiding the attack. Kai's mind raced.

Psychic moves alone wouldn't determine the outcome of this battle. He needed a strategy.

After a brief pause, inspiration struck. "Kirlia, use Psychic!" he shouted.

Sabrina's voice carried a note of scepticism. "Are you sure about that? You admitted yourself that Kirlia's psychic strength is no match for Alakazam."

She communicated telepathically with her Pokémon, commanding it to counter with Psychic as well.

But as Alakazam concentrated its power, the incoming attack wasn't Psychic it was another Magical Leaf!

"What?" Sabrina's composure broke slightly.

Even Alakazam faltered, surprised by the switch. The enchanted leaves clashed with its Psychic barrier, breaking through and striking it.

Being neutral to Grass-type moves, the damage left Alakazam visibly shaken.

Feeling surprised, Kai exclaimed, "Kirlia, why didn't you follow my command?"

Sabrina narrowed her eyes, clearly unimpressed. "You tricked us."

Kai coughed, hiding a grin. "Tactical deception. That's what I call it."

Sabrina's expression remained neutral, but she silently vowed not to fall for such tactics again.

She commanded Alakazam to use Recover. A golden glow enveloped the Pokémon as its wounds began to heal.

"Kirlia, don't let it finish! Use Psychic!" Kai ordered.

"Ki-irlll-ia"

Kirlia raised its arms, sending another wave of psychic energy toward Alakazam.

The attack interrupted the healing process, knocking the spoon from its hand.

Kai seized the opportunity. "Now! Use Magical Leaf!"

The spinning leaves formed a small cyclone, bombarding Alakazam. Without its spoon, teleportation was delayed, leaving it vulnerable. The attack ended with Alakazam kneeling, visibly weakened.

"Finish it! Use Disarming Voice!" Kai called.

Kirlia unleashed a melodious cry, sending pink soundwaves toward Alakazam.

The Fairy-type attack struck true, and Alakazam wavered before collapsing, unable to continue.

Sabrina's father raised his hand. "Alakazam is unable to battle. Kirlia is the winner!"

Sabrina recalled her Pokémon and approached Kai. Despite the loss, her face remained impassive as she handed him a badge. "You've earned this."

The badge floated into Kai's hand, a Golden Badge shaped like a radiant, circular emblem.

Kai placed it in his badge case, beaming. "Four badges down. Just four more to go until the Indigo League!"

With a parting wave, Kai left the gym, heading to the Pokémon Center to heal his team.

However, on the way, a spark caught his attention. Looking up, he noticed smoke and flashes of light emanating from the tenth floor of a skyscraper nearby.

"Is that... the Silph Tower?" he murmured, reading the building's name. A sense of unease crept in as he realized something unusual was happening there.

----

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----

Kai stared up at the building. "Isn't this the headquarters of Silph Co., the same building that Team Rocket took over in the Pokémon games?"

He studied the first floor carefully. Everything appeared normal security guards patrolled routinely, and a bored receptionist yawned at her desk. Yet, something felt off.

Suddenly, the wail of a police siren echoed as a patrol car sped past.

It didn't stop at the Silph tower but continued toward another part of the city.

Kai frowned and listened closely. The sound of distant shouting suggested a commotion a few streets away.

"Weird," he muttered. "Why does the city feel so chaotic all of a sudden?"

Seeking answers, Kai climbed to a vantage point in a deserted alley. From his backpack, he retrieved a pair of binoculars and focused on the higher floors of the Silph tower.

The smoke had mostly dissipated, but through the windows, he caught sight of figures in black uniforms with a prominent red 'R' emblazoned on their chests.

They were herding researchers to other areas while extinguishing the remnants of a fire.

"Team Rocket!"

Kai's eyes narrowed. He hurried to a nearby public phone booth and called the police.

The line rang for a long time before someone picked up. He quickly described what he'd seen, but the response shocked him.

"What? We've already sent officers to investigate the Silph tower, and they didn't find anything unusual," the operator said firmly. "In fact, we've checked twice. The building is clear. Now, if you'll excuse me, we're dealing with real emergencies, unlike your pranks."

"Pranks?!" Kai protested, but the operator had already hung up.

He sighed, piecing together Team Rocket's strategy. They must have staged this perfectly:

Call the police early. When officers arrived at the Silph tower and found nothing, they dismissed it as a false alarm.

Create chaos elsewhere. By orchestrating citywide disturbances, Team Rocket pulled law enforcement away, ensuring no one investigated the tower again.

Control the narrative. Even if a researcher managed to call for help, disguised operatives in the lobby would dismiss the claim as a repeat hoax

"A clever plan," Kai admitted grimly.
Kai snapped a few photos of the tower with his phone and sent them to Looker, the Interpol agent he'd worked with before. The call came moments later.

"Kai! Is it really Team Rocket's doing?" Looker asked urgently. "I'm tied up investigating their base in Celadon City. I'll head there, but I'm hours away."

"Yes, it's them," Kai confirmed. "But their strategy has everyone fooled. I've tried calling the police, and they're convinced it's another prank."

Looker groaned. "That explains a lot. But what are they after? Silph Co. produces Pokémon-related tech, including Poké Balls... surely Team Rocket doesn't need those?"

Kai shrugged. "Who cares? Whether they're after rare tech or hosting their boss's birthday party, we can't let them succeed."

Looker chuckled. "True. But your photos didn't capture much evidence. Without visible Rockets in the frame, it'll be hard to convince anyone official to act."

Kai smirked. "Sounds like you're asking me to handle this myself."

"Not alone," Looker assured him. "I've contacted the Pokémon League to send backup. Someone should be arriving soon to assist you."

Before Kai could respond, the call ended. He tucked his phone away and resumed observing the tower. A few minutes later, a familiar voice startled him.

"What are you doing here?"

Kai turned and froze. "Sabrina?!"

Sabrina, the Saffron City Gym Leader, raised an eyebrow. "You? I was told by the Pokémon League to assist an Interpol operation. I didn't expect you to be involved."

Kai quickly explained the situation, gesturing toward the Silver Tower.

Sabrina nodded. "So we need to infiltrate the building and uncover their plan. What's your strategy?"

Kai thought for a moment. "Sneaking in from the lobby won't work. My original plan was to have Kirlia use Psychic to lift me to a higher floor, then scout with Gastly. But since you're here, let's tackle this together."

Sabrina smirked faintly. "Fine. But let's make one thing clear I'm not here to babysit."

Kai grinned. "Wouldn't dream of it."

----

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----

Sabrina asked calmly, "So, how do we get in?"

Kai glanced up at the monitors around the Silph Co. building, then surveyed the area and pointed to a nearby office tower.

"That building is only half as tall as the Silph Co. tower. If we can access the roof and get inside from there, we can avoid the Team Rocket grunts stationed at the base."

Sabrina didn't argue. She followed Kai across the street, blending in with a crowd of white-collar workers as they entered the adjacent office building.

The two took the elevator to the top floor. At the stairwell leading to the roof, Sabrina used her psychic powers to break the lock, allowing them to proceed unimpeded.

'Psychic powers really are incredibly convenient,' Kai thought.

The cold wind greeted them as they stepped onto the rooftop. Kai walked to the edge of the railing and looked out.

From this height, the cars on the street below seemed like tiny toys. The Silph Co. tower stood some distance away, looming imposingly.

"What's the matter? Are you scared?" Sabrina asked, her voice soft.

"It's not fear," Kai admitted, "though my legs are trembling a bit. But there's no way I'm backing down now."

He scanned the tower across the gap, his sharp eyes quickly spotting a broken floor-to-ceiling window likely damaged during Team Rocket's incursion.

Beyond the shattered glass was an office, now abandoned due to the chaos.

"That's our entry point!" Kai declared.

Sabrina nodded slightly in agreement. Kai then turned to his Kirlia, motioning for her to come closer.

Kirlia wrapped her small arms around his waist, ready to teleport.

In an instant, they vanished, reappearing moments later in the abandoned office within the Silph Co. tower.

Kai turned to look back across the gap and saw Sabrina effortlessly levitating toward them.

She floated in through the window, landing gracefully.

'Of course, psychic powers,' he thought wryly. Must be nice.

When they regrouped, Kai whispered, "Gastly."

A ghostly form emerged from his shadow. "What's up?" it asked.

Before Kai could respond, Sabrina's hand flew to her mouth in surprise.

"It... can talk?"

Gastly shot her a sidelong glance. "What's so surprising about that? It's just human language, after all. Kid, you've got a lot to learn about the world."

"Enough," Kai interjected, waving a hand. "No need to be smug, Gastly. I need you to scout the area. Focus on locating Team Rocket's positions."

"Got it," Gastly replied before phasing through the wall and disappearing.

Sabrina watched the ghost Pokémon leave, then turned her attention back to Kai, her expression one of quiet curiosity.

"Trainer, member of Interpol, and you have a talking Gastly... I didn't expect someone my age to have experienced so much."

"I'm nothing compared to you," Kai replied, his tone light. "You're a gym leader with psychic powers. That's way more impressive."

Sabrina didn't react to the compliment, instead pressing on. "Do you know what Team Rocket's goal is here?"

Kai shook his head. "No idea," he admitted in his thoughts. 'I can barely remember anything about Silph Co. from the games it's been too long. But it must involve the company president.'

He took out his phone and frowned. As he'd suspected, there was no signal, just like aboard the S.S. Anne.

It wasn't long before Gastly returned. "Most of the grunts are concentrated on the top and bottom floors," it reported. "The middle floors have fewer guards."

"What about the staff?" Kai asked.

"They've been herded into a few rooms and are being guarded separately. But it doesn't seem like Team Rocket plans to hurt them, at least for now."

"What's our next move?" Sabrina asked.

Kai thought for a moment. "We can't save everyone by ourselves, but if we rescue the company president, we could disrupt Team Rocket's plans. That seems like our best bet."

Sabrina nodded. "Dangerous, but reasonable. Don't worry I promised to help, and I will."

"That's reassuring," Kai said with a small smile.

Taking a deep breath, he peered cautiously into the hallway but quickly pulled back. "There's a security camera ahead. If we step out now, they'll spot us. We need to take out the surveillance first."

He turned to Gastly. "Split up. Find the security room and disable their system. Meet us on the top floor when you're done."

Gastly grinned mischievously. "Leave it to me! Breaking stuff is my speciality!" With that, it dissolved into the shadows.

-----

Silph Co., Security Room – Ground Floor

Two Team Rocket grunts sat watching the monitors, their eyes glued to the screens.

They had strict orders from both the boss and their squad leaders: maintain vigilance at all times.

Despite being part of an "evil organization," Team Rocket treated its members surprisingly well.

The group had access to significant resources, including Pokémon, high-tech equipment, and competitive salaries.

They even hosted social events like tea parties and team-building activities, fostering loyalty among their ranks.

Suddenly, a voice crackled over the intercom. "How's everything looking down there?" It was a smooth, almost mocking tone.

"All clear outside, sir!" one grunt replied, his voice tense.

"And inside?" the voice pressed.

The grunt scanned the screens. "No anomalies detected on any floor, sir."

"Excellent," the voice said. "Stay alert and report any changes immediately."

"Yes, sir!"

The grunt set down the walkie-talkie and wiped his forehead. "No matter how many times I talk to the higher-ups, it's nerve-wracking every time," he muttered.

He waited for his partner to chime in, but there was no response. Confused, he turned around to see the other grunt slumped over the console, unmoving.

"Hey, quit messing around!" he barked, shaking his companion. "How can you fall asleep on the job—"

"Hehehehheheheh!"

Before he could finish, a sinister laugh echoed through the room, sending chills down his spine.

----

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Chapter Text

----

Despite his efforts, he pushed several times, but the Team Rocket member showed no signs of waking up.

Startled, he was about to cry out when he suddenly felt something behind him. Whipping his head around, he found a large, round black face pressed against his own.

Before he could scream, a thick, slobbery tongue licked his face.

In an instant, he felt his head spin, and like his companion, he collapsed to the ground unconscious.

"Jie jie..." Gastly cackled mischievously. "Enjoy your nightmares!"

Having incapacitated the two Team Rocket members, Gastly turned its attention to the array of surveillance equipment in the room.

A Shadow Ball began to form before it hurled at the main control console. With a burst of sparks, the monitors flickered and went dark.

"That should do it."

Satisfied, Gastly nodded at its handiwork and prepared to vanish, but just then, the walkie-talkie on the desk crackled to life.

"Monitoring room? I thought I heard something just now. What's going on over there?"

Gastly's form shimmered and morphed until it perfectly resembled one of the unconscious Team Rocket members. Picking up the walkie-talkie, it mimicked the original voice flawlessly. "Report: Everything's normal here. The noise earlier was just me bumping into a chair."

"Understood," came the voice from the other end, without a hint of suspicion. "Continue monitoring!"

On the fifteenth floor, Kai peeked cautiously down the corridor. As soon as the red light on the monitor faded, he knew Gastly had succeeded.

Gesturing to Sabrina, the two began making their way toward the stairwell.

In their current situation, taking the elevator was too risky. If discovered, they'd have no chance of escape.

However, luck was not on their side. Just as they reached the stairs, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed from below.

Kai froze. The footsteps were alarmingly close, and there wasn't enough time to retreat to their previous room.

Before he could decide on a course of action, Sabrina grabbed his sleeve and pulled him into a nearby room.

They barely managed to close the door before several Team Rocket members emerged onto their floor.

Realizing they couldn't afford to be discovered, both quickly scanned the room for a hiding spot.

It appeared to be a recreation room belonging to Silph Co., with several pool tables, sofas, and potted plants scattered about. In the far corner, a row of tall lockers stood side by side.

Hurrying over, they attempted to open the lockers, but each one was locked.

Just as Sabrina was about to use her psychic powers to force one open, Kai managed to tug a door loose.

It was just big enough for the two of them to squeeze inside. With footsteps growing louder, Sabrina ducked in first.

Kai quickly recalled Kirlia into its Poké Ball and joined her in the cramped space.

Although the locker accommodated both of them, it was still tight, forcing them into proximity.

Their breathing was shallow and audible, mingling in the confined air.

They had no time to dwell on the awkwardness. The activity room door creaked open as several Team Rocket members entered.

"Search the place thoroughly," one of them barked. "Leave no stone unturned!"

"Captain," another protested, "haven't we already swept the entire building? Why go through it again?"

"Fool!" the captain snapped. "This place is massive, and those scientists are crafty. They might still be hiding somewhere. Our plan cannot afford any slip-ups, so stay sharp!"

Footsteps approached the lockers. One grunt tugged at a locker door but found it firmly locked. Grumbling, he moved to the next one. The same result.

When he reached Kai and Sabrina's locker, Kai braced himself, expecting the worst.

However, the grunt yanked at the handle only to find it immovable, thanks to Sabrina's psychic powers.

"Why are all these lockers locked?" he muttered before moving on.

Across the room, the captain called out, "What's the situation? All locked? Fine. Move on to the next room."

"But, Captain," one grunt complained, "can't we take a break? We've been combing floor after floor without stopping."

"Yeah, just a short rest," another chimed in.

After a moment's hesitation, the captain relented. "Alright, five minutes. Then we resume the search."

The grunts cheered softly and slumped onto the sofas.

Inside the dim, stifling locker, Kai and Sabrina remained silent. The air was growing stuffy, and the temperature steadily rose in the enclosed space.

Meanwhile, in the room, the grunts took advantage of the break to chat idly.

"Captain, what's the big deal about this operation anyway?"

As lower-ranked members, they weren't privy to the details of Team Rocket's mission. Curious, they pestered the captain for answers.

At first, the captain was tight-lipped but eventually gave in. "Fine, fine. I'll share a little. But keep it to yourselves."

Clearing his throat, he continued, "The assets of Silph Co. are valuable, but our real target is the Master Ball they've been secretly developing!"

"Master Ball?" one grunt echoed, confused. "What's that?"

The captain's expression lit up with excitement. "It's the ultimate Poké Ball. They say it can catch any Pokémon no battle, no effort required, and with a 100% success rate!"

"No way!" one of the grunts gasped.

"Believe it," the captain chuckled. "That's why Team Rocket has gone to such lengths to seize this place. If we get our hands on the Master Ball, capturing rare and powerful Pokémon will be child's play!"

The grunts murmured in awe at the revelation, their fatigue momentarily forgotten.

----

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Chapter Text

----

'Master Ball? This is indeed their goal!' At this moment, Sabrina twisted slightly in discomfort.

After holding the same position for an extended period, her body had inevitably grown stiff.

However, as she shifted to relieve the tension, her proximity to Kai grew closer.

Feeling the warmth and noticing a few soft sensations, Kai's heart began to race. Even Sabrina's breathing seemed to quicken slightly.

Fortunately, the Team Rocket members only took a short break before leaving the activity room.

As their voices faded away, Kai and Sabrina quickly emerged from their hiding spot in the cramped locker.

After being confined for so long, Kai took a deep breath of fresh air. Was it his imagination, or had Sabrina's subtle fragrance lingered on him?

To avoid further awkwardness, Kai deliberately avoided meeting Sabrina's gaze and instead peeked cautiously out the door.

A dark, round face stared back at him.

Kai flinched before realizing it was his own Gastly.

"Why are you outside?!" he whispered.

"It's because you were moving so slow," Gastly floated in through the wall, glancing suspiciously between Kai and Sabrina. "Weird… what were you two doing just now? Her face looks a little red."

"Hey, don't talk nonsense!" Kai waved his hand, attempting to cover Gastly's mouth, but his hand went straight through its ethereal form. "We were just hiding from Team Rocket!"

Gastly smirked, clearly unconvinced. "Sure, sure. Whatever you say. Anyway, the coast is clear now. Let's get moving."

Leaving the activity room, Kai and Sabrina ascended the stairs cautiously.

The building, however, was crawling with Team Rocket members. Before long, they ran into a group head-on.

"Who are you?!" one of the grunts barked.

Kai and Sabrina's attire didn't match the lab-coat-wearing researchers.

Before the grunt could act, Sabrina's eyes glowed faintly, and the entire group was swiftly enveloped in psychic energy.

Moments later, they were transformed into small, doll-like figures, completely immobilized.

This was the same technique Sabrina had once used to deal with Brock and Misty when Ash challenged her at the Saffron City Gym.

The victims could not resist and could only be manipulated by her psychic powers.

However, the grunt's shout had alerted others. More Team Rocket members poured into the area.

"Things aren't going as smoothly as we hoped!" Kai muttered.

The two bolted up the stairwell, with an ever-growing crowd of Team Rocket grunts in pursuit.

"Intruders!"

"What's going on? Why didn't the surveillance room catch this?"

"How did they sneak in? Report this to the executives!"

After several frantic flights of stairs, their path was blocked by another group of grunts at the next landing.

With enemies both in front and behind, their situation looked grim.

"Guess we have no choice!" Kai said, pulling out a Poké Ball. He released his Kirlia, while Gastly floated eagerly by his side.

"Gastly, use Hypnosis! Kirlia, use Psychic!"

Both Pokémon launched their moves simultaneously. The grunts, caught off guard, crumpled to the ground like bowling pins before they could even summon their own Pokémon.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Kai and Sabrina pressed on, heading for the upper floors.

----

Top Floor of the Silph Co. Building – President's Office

As the leader of Team Rocket, Giovanni stood in the grand office, exuding an aura of authority.

Dressed in his signature black suit with impeccably combed hair, his piercing gaze was fixed on an elderly man seated on the sofa.

Despite being in his seventies, the man radiated resilience. Even under the current circumstances, his expression remained calm, betraying no hint of fear or panic.

"Old man," Giovanni said, his voice deep and commanding. "For the sake of your employee's safety, tell me where you've hidden the Master Ball."

The old man's tone was steady as he replied, "You'd best abandon that idea. Such a dangerous device will never fall into your hands."

He paused before continuing with a wry smile, "I must admit, though, I'm surprised. The infamous leader of Team Rocket, personally leading an operation to seize my company? Quite bold of you."

Giovanni remained unmoved by the sarcasm. His focus was absolute.

After a thorough search of the building had turned up no Master Ball, this man was his last hope.

A Team Rocket grunt approached Giovanni, whispering something in his ear.

"Intruders?" Giovanni's sharp eyes narrowed. "And you're only telling me this now?"

The grunt paled, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. "They broke into the control room first, sir. Knocked out our personnel and destroyed the surveillance equipment. That's why—"

Giovanni's plans, meticulously crafted, now faced an unexpected disruption.

"Who are they?"

"There are two intruders, sir," the grunt stammered. "One is confirmed to be Sabrina, the Saffron City Gym Leader. The other is a male, roughly her age, but we haven't been able to identify him yet."

"Sabrina?"

A flicker of irritation crossed Giovanni's face. As a Gym Leader officially recognized by the Pokémon League, Sabrina's involvement was a serious threat.

Worse, her psychic abilities could uncover Giovanni's secret role as Team Rocket's leader, a revelation that could jeopardize everything.

He turned his attention to one of the Rocket executives leaning casually against the wall.

"Archer," Giovanni ordered coldly, "take care of this. Make sure they don't leave this building alive."

The man, dressed in Team Rocket's standard black uniform and sporting long blue hair, straightened with a sly smile. "As you wish, boss. This won't take long."

Kai and Sabrina finally reached the top floor, gasping for air. As they caught their breath, the sound of helicopter blades sliced through the air.

Looking out the window, they spotted a helicopter lifting off from the rooftop and disappearing into the distance.

After barricading the stairwell door, they turned to survey the room.

The sound of clapping broke the silence.

Stepping forward, Archer applauded mockingly. "I must admit, you two are impressive. Getting this far through our defences? Not bad at all."

Behind him, a squad of Team Rocket grunts stood ready. At the same time, the stairwell door rattled violently as the grunts they'd outrun finally caught up, smashing it open.

The corridor was now teeming with enemies, leaving Kai and Sabrina surrounded.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"But your good luck ends here."

As Archer's words echoed, all the Team Rocket members released their Pokémon one after another, quickly filling the corridor.

Kai and Sabrina stood back-to-back, pressed tightly together and ready for action.

"What do we do now? Should we try to escape?" Sabrina asked softly.

"Escape? Absolutely not." Kai shook his head firmly. He reached for a Poké Ball at his waist and threw it into the air. "We've come this far. How could we give up now?"

With a flash of red light, a magnificent Pokémon with a nearly three-meter wingspan, a golden body, and arcs of electricity crackling across its form appeared before everyone.

"It's Zapdos!?"

"Wow, this is my first time seeing one!"

Team Rocket members cried out in shock. Even Sabrina couldn't help but glance at Zapdos in awe.

Legendary Pokémon like Zapdos are extraordinarily rare so rare that most people will never encounter one in their lifetime, let alone capture or battle alongside it!

"Don't panic!" Archer's voice cut through the commotion as he tried to rally his subordinates. "Even if he has a Zapdos, it doesn't matter! Attack together!"

Kai raised his voice as well. "Zapdos! Use Thunderbolt!"

Zapdos initially hesitated, clearly reluctant to follow Kai's command.

But with attacks coming at it from all directions, it roared in frustration and unleashed its power in self-defence.

"Krrrraaaaakkk!!!"

A blinding surge of lightning erupted from Zapdos, radiating outward. The corridor was filled with crackling energy as the thunderbolt not only cancelled out the enemy attacks but spread across the hall, overwhelming everything in its path.

As the electricity surged, Kirlia teleported herself, Kai, and Sabrina to safety on the other side of the corridor, just before the attack consumed their position.

The intense brightness and crackling energy made it difficult to see, but the screams and groans of Team Rocket members echoed clearly.

When the light finally dimmed, the corridor was littered with fallen Rocket members and their Pokémon.

"Damn it!" Archer growled as he glared at Kai.

Standing further back, Archer had avoided the worst of the blast. He gritted his teeth and released more Pokémon: a swarm of Zubat and Weezing, much like those used by Lambda/Petrel, another Team Rocket executive Kai had faced aboard the S.S. Anne.

The sound of footsteps reverberated as more Rocket members rushed in from the stairs, positioning themselves behind Archer.

"Tch," Kai muttered with a sigh. "This is getting tiresome."

At that moment, Sabrina stepped forward, positioning herself between Kai and the advancing Rockets. Her posture was confident, her tone calm.

"Leave this to me," she said, her back to Kai. "You go and do what you need to do."

Kai hesitated but quickly realized there was no time for debate. Sabrina's abilities were formidable there was no need to worry.

"Fine," Kai relented. "I'll leave Zapdos and Gastly to back you up. Be careful!"

Without waiting for her response, Kai grabbed Kirlia and dashed toward the president's office, evading any resistance thanks to Sabrina's efforts.

"Stop right there!" Archer yelled, trying to pursue him. But Sabrina calmly released her own Pokémon, blocking his path.

Kai burst into the office and found an old man slumped on a sofa. The room was eerily empty, with no one else present.

Giovanni isn't here?

Kai's thoughts raced, and he recalled the helicopter that had just departed. He quickly deduced the truth.

No time to waste. Spotting the man's dishevelled appearance and realizing he wasn't with Team Rocket, Kai rushed forward to help him.

"Are you all right?"

The man opened his eyes and sighed in relief upon seeing Kai.

"You police officers took long enough to get here..."

"I'm not with the police," Kai admitted, shaking his head. "I was sent here to investigate."

"What!?" The man's eyes widened in disbelief. "You're not the police? How did you get in here?"

Kai gestured toward the corridor, where faint sounds of chaos still lingered. "The Rockets outside isn't an issue anymore. Let's get out of here."

As Kai helped the old man to his feet and prepared for Kirlia to teleport them to safety, a sharp, mocking voice interrupted.

"I knew Archer was incompetent, but letting someone like you slip through? What a waste of the boss's trust."

Kai turned abruptly toward the source of the voice. Standing in the corner was a woman with striking red hair and a white Team Rocket uniform. Her sudden appearance was so uncanny it was as if she had materialized out of thin air.

"One more Team Rocket's Joker, it seems", Kai demanded.

The woman smiled cruelly. "Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Ariana, one of Team Rocket's executives and a researcher. Unlike that fool outside, I'm here on more important business."

"Another executive?" Kai muttered, sizing her up.

Ariana continued, her tone sharp. "I'm here to study the effects of sound waves on forced Pokémon evolution. I had hoped to examine the Master Ball as well, but this old man refuses to cooperate."

Kai remained cautious. "A researcher, huh? Shouldn't you stick to research rather than picking fights? How about letting us walk out of here and pretending we never met?"

Ariana's smile twisted. "You're a cheeky one. But I'm afraid I can't let you leave."

She reached for two Poké Balls and released her Pokémon: an Arbok, its coiled form exuding menace, and a Murkrow, its feathers dark as night, its hat-like crest lending it an air of sinister cunning.

Kai didn't waste time with more words. He threw his own Poké Balls into the fray, releasing Ivysaur, Squirtle, Charmander, and Jolteon.

The room crackled with tension, the air heavy with anticipation. A fierce battle was about to begin.

-----

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Chapter Text

----

Protecting the elderly man behind him, Kai acted swiftly, commanding, "Everyone, let's go together!"

His Pokémon responded immediately, unleashing a flurry of colourful attacks.

The array of moves streaked through the air, targeting the Murkrow and Arbok in a chaotic display of power.

Ariana sneered, expertly directing her Pokémon to evade. "Your way of battling is certainly… unconventional," she mocked.

Kai didn't rise to her taunt. This wasn't a typical trainer battle, so there was no point in discussing rules.

However, Ariana's Pokémon were undeniably strong, and even under the assault of multiple opponents, they seized every opportunity to counterattack.

"Murkrow, Wing Attack! Arbok, use Acid!"

Unfazed, Kai opted for a direct clash. "Charmander, use Ember! Squirtle, Water Gun!"

The opposing moves collided midair, erupting in a deafening explosion. With his advantage in numbers, Kai pressed on: "Jolteon, use Thunder Shock! Ivysaur, Razor Leaf!"

The Murkrow and Arbok couldn't dodge in time. Both Pokémon were struck, letting out cries of pain.

"Tch!" Ariana gritted her teeth, realizing she had underestimated both Kai and the number of Pokémon he commanded.

"Great!" Kai capitalized on the momentum. "Kirlia, use Psychic to hold them down!"

As Kirlia's psychic power immobilized the enemy Pokémon, Kai's team found their mark, combining their attacks in a coordinated strike.

The successive hits overwhelmed Ariana's team, leaving her with no choice but to issue a reluctant command.

"Damn it! Retreat!"

Recalling her Arbok into its Poké Ball, Ariana made a break for the shattered office windows. Without hesitation, she leapt from the skyscraper!

Kai's heart raced as he caught a glimpse of movement. A shadow zipped past Murkrow darting through the air to catch Ariana's arm, whisking her away from the Silph Co. building.

With Ariana's departure confirmed Kai exhaled deeply. Surveying the wreckage around him, he turned to the elderly man. "I'm sorry for the state of your office."

The man gave a reassuring smile. "Don't worry about it. Compared to protecting lives, this damage is trivial."

What neither of them expected was that Athena's retreat would trigger a chain reaction.

The sound of fighting in the corridors had ceased. No voices from Team Rocket could be heard anymore.

When Kai opened the office door, he found himself face-to-face with Sabrina.

"Are you alright?" Kai asked, glancing past her to ensure there were no lingering threats.

"I'm fine," Sabrina replied, shaking her head. "It's strange. They suddenly retreated."

The once-bustling corridor now lay eerily quiet. Even the unconscious Team Rocket grunts had been taken away.

"Perhaps their plans fell apart when they failed to capture the president," Kai speculated. He began recalling his Pokémon, leaving only Kirlia and Gastly out.

The elderly man, watching Kai closely, nodded thoughtfully. Turning to Kai, he spoke with sincerity. "I can't thank you enough. Without your intervention, not only would this company have been destroyed, but the world itself might have faced disaster."

His words weren't an exaggeration. If the Master Ball were to fall into Team Rocket's hands and be mass-produced, the resulting ecological imbalance could have dire consequences.

"We only did what we could," Kai replied modestly. He then addressed Sabrina. "There are researchers still locked up elsewhere. We should alert the authorities and let them handle the situation."

Sabrina nodded, heading downstairs to contact the police. Meanwhile, Kai sent Gastly to scout for any lingering dangers.

Once everything was secure, the elderly man invited Kai back into the office.

"I don't believe I haven't introduced myself," the man said. "My name is Mr. Silph, president of this company."

Kai smiled politely. "It's an honour to meet you, Mr Silph. I'm Kai, a Pokémon Trainer."

Gesturing for Kai to sit, Mr. Silph studied him for a moment before walking to a hidden panel in the wall.

Activating a switch, he revealed a high-tech safe. After entering his fingerprint, he retrieved a unique Poké Ball from inside.

The ball's upper half was a vibrant purple with two pink semicircles resembling eyes, while a bold "M" adorned its centre.

"As a token of my gratitude, I'd like you to have this Master Ball," Mr. Silph said solemnly.

Kai hesitated.

Mr. Silph shook his head. "Please, take it. The chaos this project has caused already worries me. If it were ever completed, the consequences could be catastrophic."

Kai considered his words before finally accepting the Master Ball with both hands. "Thank you. I'll make sure it doesn't fall into the wrong hands."

When Sabrina returned, Kai decided it was best to leave quietly before the authorities arrived.

The Master Ball and his Zapdos were not things he wanted to draw attention to.

After bidding farewell to Mr. Silph, Kai and Sabrina exited the building. The setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and red, a stark contrast to the intensity of the past few hours.

"Well," Sabrina said, breaking the silence, "my task here is done. I should return to the Saffron Gym."

Kai turned to her, his gratitude evident but unspoken. Extending his hand, he said, "I hope we meet again."

Sabrina shook his hand, her expression softening. "Something tells me we will."

----

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Chapter Text

----

At the Pokémon Center in Saffron City, Kai was having dinner while speaking on the phone with Looker.

During their conversation, Looker praised him enthusiastically. "You're incredible! I only asked you to check the situation, but you managed to handle the entire ordeal!"

"Handled?" Kai said, taking a large sip of juice. "Not really. Team Rocket held their ground for quite a while. If their leader hadn't left early, causing disarray, they might have succeeded. In the end, they chose to retreat wisely. No casualties on either side, though."

"Don't sweat the details." Looker's tone remained upbeat. "If it were anyone else, they wouldn't have completed the task as effectively as you did. How about considering a position with Interpol? I see great potential in you."

"No, thanks," Kai replied bluntly, leaning back in his chair. "My goal is to become a Champion. I'd rather not spend my days chasing after criminals." Then he added, "How's the situation on your end? Have you located Team Rocket's base yet?"

"Not yet," Looker admitted. "Celadon City is huge, and every lead we've had so far has turned into a dead end. By the way, your next destination is Celadon City, right? When you get here, I'll treat you to a meal as thanks."

"Sure, I'll let you know when I arrive."

Even as he spoke, Kai's thoughts drifted elsewhere. Team Rocket's base?

He hesitated to say anything further. Having too much foresight wasn't always a good thing.

If he said the wrong thing, it might raise suspicions or lead to misunderstandings.

After resting overnight in Saffron City, Kai set out the next morning for his next Gym challenge.

According to his map, Celadon City was the nearest Gym location. He hadn't contacted Misty recently, so he wasn't sure if Ash had already earned his fifth badge.

The journey wasn't far, but it still took until noon to cover half the distance. Along the way, Kai passed through scenic plains and lush forests.

A gentle breeze carried swarms of Butterfree across the sky, creating a mesmerizing sight.

Kai took a photo of the rare scene and was about to find a place to rest when a red convertible zoomed past him only to screech to a halt and reverse back.

As the dust settled, Kai turned to see five people seated in the car. Among them, a handsome young man with reddish-brown hair sat in the passenger seat. The others, including the driver, were all beautiful young women.

The boy adjusted his large sunglasses and studied Kai carefully before saying, "I remember you. When you delivered something to Professor Oak's lab, I saw you from a distance."

The boy was none other than Gary Oak, the grandson of Professor Oak and Ash's first rival.

"You're Gary, right?" Kai asked knowingly. "Ash mentioned you a few days ago. He said you've been his childhood friend and his greatest rival."

"Did he?" Gary said dismissively. "Ash sure knows how to talk. By the way, judging by your Pokémon, you must be the trainer from Viridian Forest who taught that rookie a lesson, huh?"

Kai chuckled, recalling the incident. "That's me. Why? Did he tell you about it?"

"Oh, he did," Gary replied with a pout. "Thanks to you, I got ambushed by him the moment I entered the forest. He also claimed you're a powerful trainer. I wonder if that's true."

"It depends on who you're comparing me to," Kai replied nonchalantly. "I haven't lost a single battle during my journey so far."

"Big deal," Gary retorted. "I haven't lost, either!" Unsure whether Kai was boasting or genuinely strong, Gary asked, "How many badges do you have, then?"

"Four," Kai answered. "But I'm on my way to Celadon City to challenge the Gym Leader for my fifth badge."

"Only four? That's pretty slow. You're about on par with Ash," Gary said arrogantly. "I've already collected seven badges. I'm heading to Viridian City next for the eighth."

Gary's tone was undeniably smug, but Kai didn't let it bother him. He's just starting his journey. With his lofty attitude and lack of setbacks, he's bound to underestimate others.

Thinking of this, Kai retrieved a Poké Ball and spun it on his finger. "How about it? Want to battle me?"

"Battle?" Gary shrugged. "Sorry, I don't have time for that. If you're so eager, make it to the Indigo Plateau and face me at the Pokémon League!"

With a wave, Gary signalled for the car to speed off, leaving Kai in the dust.

At that moment, Gastly floated out of Kai's shadow, chuckling. "Seems like we were underestimated."

Kai shook his head, watching the car disappear into the distance. A red convertible and a car full of admirers… must be nice.

Pushing those thoughts aside, Kai set down his backpack and asked Kirlia to gather firewood for cooking.

He released his other Pokémon, except for Zapdos and Magikarp, to help.

Squirtle fetched water from a nearby river, Charmander lit the firewood, and Ivysaur led the others to gather berries from the forest. Everything was carried out with practised efficiency.

Once everyone had eaten their fill, Kai took out Magikarp's Poké Ball and released it into the river. The Pokémon swam about joyfully in the cool water.

Studying it closely, Kai sighed. I got scammed by that salesman.

This was clearly a male Magikarp. How could it possibly lay eggs?

Even more puzzling was the lack of evolution. Considering how long it had been with him, Magikarp should have evolved into Gyarados by now. Yet, it showed no signs of doing so.

"Gastly," Kai called, glancing at his companion. "Any ideas on how to get it to evolve?"

Gastly cackled mischievously. "Evolve? You're seriously struggling with something as simple as that?"

----

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Chapter Text

----

"What do you mean by that?" Kai was taken aback.

"I mean, if you want to evolve, you can do it anytime, anywhere!"

As Gastly spoke, its body was suddenly surrounded by a bright light. When the light faded, a new Pokémon appeared before Kai.

Kai was stunned.

Without any warning, Gastly had evolved into a Haunter!

Compared to its previous form, Haunter's rounded body had transformed significantly.

The purple mist that once surrounded Gastly was gone, replaced by three jagged, spike-like protrusions on each side.

Two disembodied claws floated in mid-air, no longer attached to its body.

"Wait, you just evolved like that? How did you do it?" Kai asked, his mouth hanging open.

"What's the big deal?" Haunter replied casually, flexing its floating claws and testing their movement. "I could evolve further right now if I wanted to!"

"Stop, stop!" Kai interrupted quickly. "Evolving too fast isn't a good thing. You should get used to this new body first."

Kai then turned his attention back to the Magikarp.

"That said, even though I'm thrilled you evolved, the issue with Magikarp isn't resolved yet. Hey, Haunter, see if you can communicate with it!"

"Me? Talk to that?" Haunter's face twisted in disbelief. Nevertheless, it floated over to Magikarp, staring intently.

Its mouth moved as if speaking, but after a while, it returned, shaking its head.

"Nope. That thing's brain seems completely empty. I can't figure out what it's thinking at all!"

Kai frowned but said nothing. Sensing Kai's frustration, Haunter tried to analyze the situation.

"Look, if it's close to evolving but stuck at the critical point, it's probably missing some experience or a trigger. A battle should do the trick. That ought to give it the push it needs."

"Experience? A trigger?" Kai's eyes lit up as inspiration struck him.

Seeing Kai's expression, Haunter looked surprised. "Wait, you're not serious. Are you going to make it a battle? That thing can't do anything but Splash! It'll just get beaten up & it's too dumb for a battle!"

"Don't worry about that!" Kai said confidently. "I've got an idea. Everyone spread out and see if you can find a wild Pokémon nearby!"

They were near a river bend, with a small forest not far away. Kai's Pokémon began searching, and soon Kirlia found a Bug-type Pokémon Weedle; resting on a tree trunk.

Kirlia let out a soft cry, and when Kai arrived, he examined the Weedle and nodded in satisfaction.

"A Weedle? Perfect. Everyone, surround it! Don't let it escape!"

Though puzzled, the Pokémon obeyed, encircling the Weedle and cutting off its escape routes.

Once everything was in place, Kai gave Charmander an order. "Charmander, use Ember!"

Charmander approached quietly, inhaled deeply, and unleashed a burst of embers at the unsuspecting Weedle. The flames engulfed it instantly.

It's super effective!

"Magikarp, now it's your turn!" Kai declared, picking up the flopping fish. Holding it high, he shouted, "Let's show Weedle our combo move Flopping Smash!"

Kai swung Magikarp downward with all his might, slamming it into Weedle. A loud thud echoed as the two Pokémon collided.

Weedle was shaken but not yet defeated. Kai raised an eyebrow.

"Huh? Still standing? You're tougher than you look! But that's fine. Magikarp, let's do it again!"

This time, the impact was too much for Weedle, who fainted. At the same time, Magikarp began to glow brilliantly.

"Yes! It's happening!" Kai exclaimed.

With a triumphant roar, Magikarp evolved into a Gyarados!

Kai quickly checked the Pokédex.

Pokédex: "Gyarados, the Atrocious Pokémon. Water and Flying-type. The evolved form of Magikarp. Gyarados has an extremely violent temperament. Its steel-like scales and razor-sharp teeth can crush rocks. When enraged, it causes devastation, burning everything in its path even during a storm."

The newly evolved Pokémon stood over six meters long, its back a fierce Red, with a light yellow underbelly.

A three-spiked crest adorned its head, and two long whiskers framed its face. Its massive mouth and glaring eyes radiated perpetual fury.

"GYAAAAARRRRR!!!"

Despite the successful evolution, Gyarados didn't seem calm. It roared and thrashed wildly, launching an indiscriminate attack on its surroundings.

"Hey! What's wrong with this guy's head?" Haunter exclaimed, flying out of Gyarados's rampaging path. "Did you break it by throwing it?"

"Idiot! Don't spout nonsense!" Kai yelled, retreating to a safe distance. "Didn't you hear the Pokédex? It's just naturally aggressive! It's a Pokemon version of Broly!"

"Now, Who the fuck is Broly! Then what do we do now?" Haunter asked. "Wait for it to calm down?"

"Of course not! We worked hard to evolve it. No way, we're giving up now!" Kai waved a hand forward. "Okay, everyone! Show this disobedient Gyarados who's boss! If it attacks its trainer and friends, it's time for some discipline, let's start our Gangbang!"

----

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Chapter Text

----

Kai's Pokémon attacked the Gyarados relentlessly. With Jolteon's final Thunderbolt, a move that dealt quadruple damage due to Gyarados's Water and Flying types.

The mighty Pokémon couldn't endure anymore. It collapsed heavily onto the ground.

"You should calm down now," Kai remarked.

It is said that the reason Gyarados becomes so aggressive lies in its evolution process; the restructuring of its brain cells during transformation drastically alters its personality.

However, a Gyarados will only truly settle down after building trust with or recognizing its Trainer.

Recalling advice he'd heard before that touching a Gyarados's horns can help calm it Kai approached cautiously.

With his right hand, he stroked its rigid horns. Sure enough, Gyarados's eyes gradually softened, shifting from resistance to acceptance.

After taking a brief rest to recover his strength, Kai reorganized his backpack and set off toward Celadon City once more.

However, unbeknownst to him, a conspiracy was already unfolding in a hidden chamber beneath the Viridian City Gym.

----

In the dimly lit room, Giovanni sat on a plush leather sofa. A Persian with gleaming ruby-like eyes rested elegantly at his feet.

There was a knock at the door, and a woman with a bob haircut and glasses stepped inside.

Giovanni glanced at her indifferently. "Matori, have you completed the investigation?"

Matori handed him a dossier. A blurred photo of Kai was visible in the top-right corner.

"The investigation is complete," she replied, her tone professional. "This Trainer's name is Kai. He's 20 years old and arrived in Kanto from the Kalos region about two weeks ago."

"During this time, he's been challenging Gyms across the region. According to Lambda's confirmation, he interfered with our plans during the S.S. Anne incident and again during the Silph Co. operation. He has already hindered us twice."

Giovanni flipped through the document, scanning the information about Kai's Pokémon team, which included Jolteon and Gastly.

"Where is he now?" Giovanni asked.

"Based on his recent movements, his next destination appears to be the Celadon Gym," Matori responded while adjusting her glasses.

"Celadon City?" Giovanni frowned slightly. "Isn't Interpol investigating our operations there?"

Matori nodded. "Yes, he's been lingering in Celadon for several days. Though we've managed to avoid direct confrontations, it seems he hasn't given up his search."

"We can't allow him to interfere any longer. Send someone to eliminate him." Giovanni's tone was cold and dismissive as if he were ordering the swatting of a fly. "Which agents are stationed near Celadon City?"

Matori hesitated. "Aside from the base's security forces, many of our top operatives have been dispatched to Johto, and the rest are spread thin across other regions. Only Jessie and James remain in the vicinity."

"Then send them," Giovanni decided. But noticing Matori's hesitation, he raised an eyebrow. "What is it? Is there a problem?"

"Well..." Matori hesitated briefly before speaking. "With all due respect, their competence isn't exactly reliable. Perhaps my elite team, the Matori Matrix, would be better suited for this task."

"It's fine," Giovanni said dismissively, lighting a cigar. "Even if they fail to eliminate him, they can at least buy us some time. Use this opportunity to clear out Interpol's presence in Celadon City."

Celadon City, the second-largest metropolis in Kanto after Saffron City, sparkled like a dream in the hues of a rainbow.

Known for its prestigious university and sprawling shopping malls, the city also boasted the famous Celadon Game Corner.

As Kai walked down the street leading to the Celadon Gym, a peculiar fragrance caught his attention.

It was a blend of various perfumes, carried gently on the breeze, saturating the entire street.

Looking ahead, Kai noticed a large perfume shop nestled between several buildings. Intrigued, he decided to check it out.

"Welcome," chimed several stylishly dressed shop assistants near the counter. They were chatting casually but turned their attention to him with warm smiles.

"Are you here to buy perfume?" one of them asked.

Kai nodded, scanning the array of bottles but feeling a bit overwhelmed. He wasn't sure where to begin.

A younger assistant approached him, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Is it for your girlfriend?"

Kai shook his head. "No, I don't have a girlfriend. I'm just looking for a few bottles to gift to some friends."

"Friends?" the assistant teased, clearly amused. "Sounds suspicious! Are you sure you're not juggling multiple girlfriends?"

Kai became annoyed. "I-"

"Enough joking around," came a soft yet authoritative voice from behind.

The assistants immediately straightened up as a young woman in a kimono with shoulder-length hair and a red headband approached gracefully.

"Manager Erika!" one of the assistants exclaimed in surprise.

Erika smiled politely. "Please sort the new perfume deliveries in the back. I'll handle this customer."

With a respectful bow to Kai, Erika said, "I apologize for their behaviour. They're used to teasing customers playfully. I hope you weren't offended."

"Not at all," Kai replied, shaking his head. He had already recognized Erika as the Celadon Gym Leader.

"What kind of perfume are you looking for?" Erika asked.

Kai hesitated before describing the personalities of his friends: a cheerful and outgoing friend, a quiet and reserved one, and a refined yet commanding individual.

Finally, he mentioned Professor Cerise's daughter, Chloe, who had helped him greatly and requested a recommendation for her as well.

"I see," Erika said with a nod. She walked to a specific section of the shelf. "Our shop carries a variety of excellent perfumes. Based on your descriptions, I recommend these."

She pointed to four perfumes at the centre of the display. "These floral scents are our signature blends. The two on the left one is perfect for lively personalities, and the other for quieter ones. The two on the right have a subtler but longer-lasting fragrance, suitable for refined tastes."

----

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Chapter Text

----

Kai didn't know much about perfume, but he figured that listening to the advice of professionals would be a safe bet.

At that moment, Erika pulled out a trial-sized bottle of perfume she had selected for Sabrina. Rolling up her sleeve, she sprayed a little onto her wrist.

"Here, smell this. Isn't it lovely?"

Kai glanced at her pale, smooth arm before leaning in slightly to catch the scent.

Sure enough, the fragrance was delightful and delicate, yet not overpowering.

Mixed with the perfume was a youthful, feminine scent that made his heart beat just a little faster.

This fragrance was distinct from Sabrina's, subtly highlighting the differences in personality between the two women.

Erika smiled warmly. "This perfume is exclusive to our shop. It's a unique blend you won't find anywhere else."

Clearing his throat, Kai replied, "Alright, I'll take these four. Please wrap them up for me."

After paying for the perfumes, Kai bid Erika farewell and exited the shop. He attempted to contact the "Looker guy," but his call didn't go through.

"That's strange," Kai muttered. "Didn't he say he'd meet me once I got to Celadon City?"

Still, considering the man's enigmatic nature, Kai shrugged it off. He's probably on some kind of mission.

Since Erika was busy at the perfume shop, it was clear she wasn't available for a Gym battle. Kai decided there was no point in heading to the Gym just yet.

After a moment of thought, he turned and walked toward Celadon Game Corner. Might as well pass the time.

Located in the southeast part of the city, the Game Corner was far grander in person than it appeared in the games.

It wasn't just an arcade there were hotels, restaurants, a movie theatre, and even dance halls!

Inside the bustling Game Corner, Kai observed the lively crowd.

Young groups and middle-aged visitors mingled among claw machines, arcade games, slot machines, dance platforms, and even pachinko machines. The atmosphere was vibrant.

Kai purchased a handful of game coins from the counter. Just as he was heading to a claw machine, something at a nearby stall caught his eye.

The stall owner, a middle-aged man, was selling an array of Pokémon-themed masks.

"Boss, how much for that Gengar mask?" Kai asked, pointing to one in particular.

The mask's upper half resembled Gengar's mischievous, dark-purple face, covering most of the wearer's face, while the lower section was cut away to expose the mouth.

"You've got good taste," the stall owner said with a grin. "This mask is one of my best. Sturdy, with glass eyes that won't obstruct your view. Usually, it's 300 Pokédollars, but today's special price is just 250!"

Kai frowned. "That's still pretty steep. How about 100 Pokédollars?"

The stall owner feigned shock. "Are you joking? 250 is already a bargain!"

Kai smirked and walked away without another word. As expected, the man quickly called him back, Asian bargaining skills.

"Alright, alright! Since it seems like fate brought you here, how about 150 Pokédollars?"

Kai suppressed a chuckle. This tactic always worked. Without hesitation, he pulled out a single 100 Pokédollar bill.

The stall owner sighed theatrically but handed over the mask in exchange.

The transaction was so fast that Kai briefly wondered if even 100 Pokédollars was too much.

Tucking the Gengar mask securely into his bag, he returned to the claw machine. After a few tries, he managed to snag two plush toys.

As he prepared to leave the Game Corner, he became aware of several eyes watching him from the shadows.

Hidden in a nearby phone booth, Jessie, James, and Meowth were whispering among themselves.

"Are we really gonna go after him?" James asked nervously. "He helped us escape from the underwater base last time. Isn't it wrong to go after him now?"

Jessie crossed her arms. "Don't be ridiculous! We're bad guys, remember? The Boss gave us direct orders to deal with him!"

"But the Game Corner's near our secret base!" James protested. "Isn't it risky to act here?"

Jessie rolled her eyes. "Obviously, we wait until he leaves! Then we'll strike."

As Team Rocket schemed, Kai received a message on his phone. It was from the "Looker guy," containing nothing but a location pin.

'What's this about? Is this where we're supposed to meet?'

Kai decided to investigate but remained cautious. The coordinates led him to a cluster of warehouses near the freight train station, on the city's outskirts.

The area was eerily quiet, with only the occasional passing train breaking the silence.

"Haunter, scout the area. Kirlia, stay alert," Kai instructed, donning the Gengar mask he had purchased earlier.

It hadn't been long since he bought the mask, but it was already proving useful.

After a brief search, Haunter returned, shaking its head.

"No ambushes, but there's someone seriously injured in that warehouse ahead," it reported telepathically.

Kai's heart skipped a beat. 'A seriously injured person?'

Following Haunter's guidance, Kai arrived at the warehouse. The large iron doors were ajar, one hanging crookedly on its hinges.

A dark red trail of blood stretched from the entrance into the shadows beyond.

The sharp, metallic scent of blood filled the air, warning of something grim ahead.

----

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Chapter Text

----

Kai walked into the warehouse. Behind a stack of cargo boxes at the far end, he saw a man sprawled on the ground, his appearance haggard yet unmistakably handsome.

At the moment, Looker looked to be in terrible shape. He was gravely injured, with his abdomen wrapped in bandages that were soaked with fresh blood, staining his suit crimson.

Upon seeing the mask on Kai's face, Looker initially flinched but quickly relaxed after spotting the Kirlia beside him.

A faint, weary smile appeared on his pale lips.

"You... finally came... ahem..." he rasped weakly.

Without hesitation, Kai retrieved a spray bottle of Potion from his bag and applied it to the man's wounds.

As a prepared Trainer, Kai always carried essentials like Potions, Antidotes, Burn Heals, and even Pain Relievers in his backpack ready for emergencies like this.

"How did you end up so badly hurt?" Kai asked, ignoring the blood staining his hands as he grabbed fresh bandages and rewrapped the man's abdomen.

It was his first time dealing with so much blood, but he kept his composure.

The metallic smell and sight of gore were overwhelming, but he stayed focused until the bandaging was complete.

"I was ambushed... caught off guard," Looker muttered, his lips pale as he released two Poké Balls. "My Pokémon... they're injured too. I'm counting on you!"

A Toxicroak and Growlithe emerged, both in dire condition. Their bodies were battered, and the Growlithe showed signs of poisoning.

Kai quickly grabbed an Antidote and gently treated the Growlithe before tending to their wounds. Afterwards, he returned them to their Poké Balls.

Although these basic treatments would stabilize their conditions, they would still need professional care at a Pokémon Center for full recovery.

At least inside their Poké Balls, the Pokémon could rest and avoid further harm.

Kai handed the man a water bottle, helping him take a few sips. Seeing some colour return to his face, Kai asked, "Who did this? Team Rocket?"

"Who else?" Looker replied bitterly. "But this time, it wasn't just grunts. I was targeted by the Rocket Elite Unit the Real Bird Division. They're exceptionally dangerous... It took everything I had just to escape."

Real Bird Division!?

Kai frowned. The name sounded vaguely familiar, but he couldn't recall specific details.

"I'll take you to a Pokémon Center," Kai offered.

"No!" Looker protested, his voice weak but firm. "The Rockets are everywhere in this city. They'll spot me the moment I step outside. Their spies are even in the police force... No, I can't risk it."

"Then what's your plan?" Kai pressed.

Looker glanced toward the back of the warehouse. "There's a freight train station nearby. I timed it earlier there's a train every ten minutes. I'll hop on one and get out of the city."

Kai hesitated but finally nodded. "It's risky, but if you're set on this, let's move. Just try to stay out of sight."

Kai helped Looker to stand on his feet, but as they approached the warehouse exit, laughter echoed through the air.

"Oh ho ho ho! Finally caught up with you!" a woman's voice cackled.

Two figures leapt through a window Jessie and James of Team Rocket.

"Jessie!?" Kai tensed, recognizing them. "Why aren't you pestering Ash for once?"

"Orders from the boss!" Jessie sneered. "This time, we're here to take you down! Go, Arbok!"

She hurled her Poké Ball, releasing the massive serpent. James reluctantly followed her lead. "Fine... Go, Weezing…"

Looker, still leaning on Kai for support, sighed. "Even they're after you now? Team Rocket doesn't let up."

Kai didn't respond. Instead, he threw two Poké Balls of his own. "Charmander, Squirtle handle them!"

The small Fire- and Water-types sprang into action, countering Arbok and Weezing's attacks with Ember and Water Gun.

Meanwhile, Kai focused on getting the injured man out through the back door.

"You're not getting away!" Meowth jumped out from nowhere, claws gleaming as it lunged at Kai.

"Nice try!" Jessie cheered, but her grin faded as Kirlia stepped forward. A shimmering Psychic barrier halted Meowth in mid-air and flung it backwards with tremendous force.

The feline Pokémon smashed into a stack of crates with a loud crash.

"Arbok! Weezing! Don't just stand there and attack!" Jessie shouted.

Charmander and Squirtle quickly intercepted, their moves neutralizing the Rockets' Pokémon.

Kai didn't wait. Supporting the injured man, he slipped out the back door and headed toward the railway tracks.

Just as they thought they were safe, a missile streaked toward them with alarming speed.

Kai had no time to react, but a sudden gust of wind enveloped them, lifting both him and the man to safety just as the missile exploded nearby.

The freight station shook from the blast, debris scattering everywhere, but the mysterious wind shielded them.

"Well, well... you dodged that? Impressive."

A deep voice echoed from above. Kai looked up to see five figures clad in black Rocket uniforms and berets standing on the roof. Their leader, a burly man with an eyepatch, sneered.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I'm Gozu, and we're the Real Bird Division, the Team Rocket Elite Unit. Now that we've caught you... your luck ends here."

Kai narrowed his eyes, bracing himself. "What do you want from us?"

Gozu smirked darkly. "Your lives."

----

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Chapter Text

----

"You're the Real Bird Division!?"

Kai's voice betrayed his surprise as he turned to glance at the injured man beside him.

Seeing the man's slight nod, Kai's expression hardened this situation had just become significantly more dangerous.

"Looks like you are more interested in an introduction than in a fight," Kai muttered.

Gozu smirked, folding his arms. "fight? We're the bad guys, our intro should be perfect & Completing the mission is all that matters." His eyes gleamed as he turned to the injured man.

"But I must admit, I didn't expect to find you hiding here. We were merely tracking those two buffoons, curious about their antics, but this buffoon gave us a surprise & we stumble upon a bonus prize."

"Buffoons!?" Jessie's voice rang out indignantly as she and James stumbled out of the warehouse, looking worse for wear.

Their hair was singed, their clothes drenched, and their Pokémon Arbok and Weezing were visibly battered.

Behind them, Kirlia, Charmander, and Squirtle emerged, determined expressions on their faces as they pursued the fleeing Rocket duo.

Jessie pointed an accusatory finger at Gozu. "Hey! I know you! You're one of Matori's lackeys, aren't you? How dare you shadow us!"

"Matori's lackeys?" Gozu's face darkened. "You've got guts to insult Ms. Matori like that."

"Cut the chatter!" Jessie snapped. "This man is our target. Stay out of our way!"

Gozu raised an eyebrow and smirked at Kai. His gaze lingered on Kai's mask for a moment before realization struck. "Ah, so this is Kai! Excellent. With the two of them here together, we can eliminate both targets at once. Saves us the trouble of hunting them down separately."

"Excuse me!?" James looked appalled. "You'd defy the boss's orders and steal our mission?"

"You fool." Gozu reached for his Poké Ball and threw it to the ground. "As long as the mission is accomplished, the boss won't care who gets it done. Go, Aggron!"

A flash of light revealed a massive, armoured Pokémon with sharp horns and a steel-plated tail. The Aggron roared, its voice shaking the ground.

The other members of the Real Bird Division followed suit, releasing their Pokémon one after another.

"Out you come, Toxicroak!"

"Go, Purugly!"

"It's your turn, Skuntank!"

"Show them your power, Rhyperior!"

The five Pokémon stepped forward, their menacing presence growing as they surrounded Kai and the injured man.

Fight or flee?

Kai made his decision in an instant. Without hesitation, he released all his Pokémon. Red light flashed as Jolteon and Gyarados joined Kirlia, Charmander, and Squirtle.

"GYAAAAARRRRR!"

The Gyarados let out a thunderous roar, its crimson eyes locking onto the Aggron with unrelenting intensity.

"Is that... a Gyarados and a Zapdos!?" the injured man exclaimed, his voice filled with shock.

Even Jessie and James froze, their jaws dropping at the sight of the legendary bird.

"Zapdos!? They didn't say anything about this!" Jessie wailed. "Matori is the worst!"

James looked uncertain. "What do we do now? We can't win against that."

Jessie clenched her fists. "We can't let those Real Bird clowns complete their mission! If they succeed, we'll be humiliated in front of the boss and Matori!"

"Eh? So... are we stopping them?" James asked, confused. "But if we interfere, won't the boss punish us?"

"Don't be silly," Meowth interjected slyly. "We're just following orders. Any collateral damage is purely accidental!"

Jessie and James exchanged glances before nodding in agreement.

"You're a genius, Meowth!" they exclaimed in unison, vanishing into the shadows.

Meanwhile, the battle had begun. Gyarados lunged at Aggron, teeth bared, while Toxicroak squared off against Kirlia.

Purugly darted toward Charmander with lightning speed, Skuntank targeted Jolteon, and Rhyperior took on both Squirtle and Kirlia at once.

"Screeaaawkkk!"

Zapdos hovered above, its piercing cry echoing across the battlefield. However, the Real Bird Division's coordinated efforts had temporarily pinned the legendary Pokémon, preventing it from unleashing its full power.

Kai assessed the chaotic scene, issuing orders with calm precision. "Kirlia, switch to Toxicroak! Squirtle, focus on Rhyperior with Kirlia's support. Jolteon disengages from Skuntank and goes after Purugly. Charmander, hold off Skuntank!"

The tactical adjustments quickly turned the tide. Each Pokémon's attributes were matched to counter the enemy effectively, creating a more balanced fight.

Kai glanced at Gyarados and Aggron, whose battle had devolved into a brutal clash of raw power.

Despite its intimidating size and strength, Gyarados was still newly evolved and inexperienced, struggling to keep up with Aggron's relentless attacks.

Kai knew it was only a matter of time before Gyarados was overwhelmed without intervention.

As the distant whistle of a train echoed through the air, Kai's eyes lit up. This was their chance.

"Haunter, it's your turn!" he called.

Emerging from Kai's shadow with a mischievous grin, Haunter flew toward the injured man, wrapping him in its spectral aura.

The man's body lifted gently into the air, floating toward the approaching train. With Haunter's help, he landed safely in one of the freight cars.

Gozu's eyes widened in alarm. "Stop him! He's escaping!"

The Real Bird Division began to shift focus, abandoning their fight against Zapdos.

But before they could act, a massive Meowth-shaped robot crashed onto the scene, blocking their path.

"What's this!?" Gozu snarled.

From the robot's cockpit, Jessie's voice rang out triumphantly. "This is our moment to shine! Prepare for trouble!"

"And make it double!" James added, their signature motto echoing across the battlefield.

As the train began to pull away, Kai exhaled in relief. The injured man was safe for now. But the fight wasn't over yet.

"Let's finish this," Kai muttered, turning his attention back to the fray. His eyes burned with a vengeance.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Who are you? How dare you block our way?!" Gozu snapped angrily.

"It's you who are in the way!" Jessie's voice echoed from inside the Meowth robot. "We've got business with that kid, so if you're smart, step aside!"

As she spoke, the robot's upper body began to rotate. The two massive mechanical claws spun like bladed fans, generating a powerful hurricane!

Kai, watching from nearby, couldn't help but give a wry thumbs-up.

'Where do they even find this kind of tech so quickly?' he thought.

"Damn it!" The violent wind pressure blew the hats off the Matori Matrix team members.

Delayed by the commotion, Gozu could only watch helplessly as the freight train sped past on the side rails.

He shouted furiously, "How dare you interfere with our operation? I'll report this to the boss!"

"What nonsense are you spouting?!" James glared down at Gozu from the cockpit's glass cover. "We're on a mission here when did we ever mess up your operation?"

Despite Gozu's mounting frustration, he realized arguing would be pointless. Instead, he turned his focus back to Kai, intent on targeting him directly.

But when his eyes landed on Kai again, his expression shifted. After the intense battle, Kai's Pokémon were clearly struggling!

"Squirtle! Use Water Gun! Ivysaur hit it with Razor Leaf!" Kai commanded firmly.

Squirtle and Ivysaur opened the gap in the battle. Against Gozu's Rhyhorn, a Rock- and Ground-type Pokémon, their Water- and Grass-type attacks dealt massive damage four times the usual amount!

Despite Rhyhorn having evolved into its second stage, its bulky frame made it slow and vulnerable. After repeated attacks, it collapsed to the ground.

"Tch!" One of the Matori Matrix members clicked their tongue and reluctantly returned Rhyhorn to its Poké Ball.

"Stay sharp, everyone!" Gozu barked at his team. "He's just one guy! We can't afford to lose here!"

But even as he shouted encouragement, another Pokémon went down. Toxicroak, a Poison- and Fighting-type, was no match for Kirlia's Psychic-type moves.

It barely managed a few attacks before being overwhelmed and fainting.

Although these defeats came quickly due to type disadvantages, the other three Pokémon were much tougher to deal with.

First was Alolan Persian. Though its Normal typing didn't make it particularly special in terms of resistance, it had an impressive agility that belied its pudgy appearance.

It darted around the battlefield so quickly that only Kai's Jolteon could keep up with it.

The two Pokémon chased each other until they vanished somewhere beyond the skirmish.

Then there was Skuntank, a Poison- and Dark-type Pokémon. Its dual typing made it resistant to most of Kai's team's moves, and its foul stench kept other Pokémon at bay.

Finally, Gozu's Aggron took centre stage. Despite being at a disadvantage against Gyarados, the Steel- and Rock-type Pokémon managed to hold their ground and even started to gain the upper hand.

"Aggron! Use Iron Tail!" Gozu commanded. The massive Pokémon swung its tail, striking Gyarados hard on the head.

The impact sent Gyarados crashing to the ground with a wail.

Gozu smirked, ready to press the advantage, but at that moment, the Meowth robot lumbered into the fray.

"Time for my stomp attack!" Meowth laughed sinisterly as he manoeuvred the robot's legs to stomp heavily on the ground, causing tremors to ripple through the battlefield.

The vibrations didn't just destabilize Gyarados they also took a toll on Aggron, whose Steel and Rock typing left it vulnerable to such shockwaves. Aggron toppled over with a groan.

"You idiots! Stop messing around!" Gozu yelled, trying to halt the chaos, but the tremors knocked him off balance.

"We're helping you!" Jessie cackled, covering her mouth with feigned innocence. "You're welcome!"

"Perfect!" Kai's eyes lit up as Aggron fell. Quickly recalling Gyarados, he called out to his other Pokémon. "Ivysaur, Squirtle attack now!"

A concentrated blast of Water Gun and Razor Leaf rained down on Aggron, striking it while it was vulnerable.

Meanwhile, the Meowth robot continued its rampage, turning its sights on Skuntank.

Skuntank, primarily relying on close-quarters moves, found itself cornered. With Kirlia's support, Kai's Charmander managed to hold its ground despite the intense pressure.

"Skuntank, use Crunch!" a Matrix team member shouted.

Skuntank lunged at Charmander with its jaws wide, but the Meowth robot stepped in at just the right moment.

Unable to stop in time, Skuntank crashed headlong into the robot with a loud clang.

The impact left Skuntank disoriented. Worse, its signature stench couldn't penetrate the robot's airtight cockpit.

"Heh heh heh…" The Team Rocket trio grinned smugly.

Finally, the Matrix team began to catch on. It was clear that Jessie, James, and Meowth weren't allies they were undermining them at every turn.

"Captain, what do we do?" one team member asked nervously.

"Retreat for now," Gozu growled, his eyes narrowing as he glared at Kai. "This guy's stronger than Interpol. If we keep this up, we're finished."

"But what about those three clowns?" another member protested, gesturing at the Meowth robot in disgust.

"We'll deal with them later!" Gozu snapped. "We'll report to Ms. Matori let the boss handle their punishment!"

"Understood!"

The team recalled their remaining Pokémon and retreated into the shadows.

"Finally!" Jessie sighed in relief as the Matrix team disappeared. Turning her gaze back to Kai, she smirked. "No more distractions! Now we can finally show you how powerful we really are!"

The Meowth robot stomped forward, charging directly at Kai with heavy strides

----

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Chapter Text

----

Facing the "Menacing" Team Rocket trio, Kai waved his hand lightly. In the next moment, his Pokémon concentrated all their energy and launched a chaotic barrage of moves toward the Meowth-shaped robot in unison.

"Eh!?"

Caught in the relentless attack, the warning lights in the robot's cockpit began flashing wildly before exploding.

The steel shell, unable to withstand the assault, gave way.

After a violent blast, Jessie, James, and Meowth were thrown into the rubble, unable to escape in time.

Blinking in shock as they looked around, they found themselves surrounded by countless pairs of hostile eyes.

The trio forced an awkward smile, their earlier arrogance completely deflated.

Their dreams had been lofty, but reality was harshly unforgiving.

Before they could utter a word, a sudden gust of wind swept them into the air.

Their forms grew smaller and smaller until they disappeared into the clouds.

"Team Rocket's blasting off in defeat..... again!!!"

Finally, it was over.

Kai breathed a sigh of relief and surveyed the area. The devastation was immense containers were smashed, and buildings lay in ruins as if a hurricane had torn through.

His Pokémon bore injuries of varying severity. Kai recalled Zapdos first, then prepared to return the others to their Poké Balls.

Just as he reached for Squirtle, a burst of white light enveloped it.

Squirtle had accumulated enough experience in the battle and was evolving!

Moments later, a newly evolved Wartortle stood before Kai. Its appearance had changed slightly fangs now protruded from its mouth, furry ears resembling small wings adorned its head, and its tail had taken on the shape of a crashing wave.

Before Kai could dwell on this, a group of guards arrived from the distance. Confirming that his mask was still secure, he quickly recalled his Pokémon and left without looking back.

----

That evening, Kai arrived at the Pokémon Center. He handed his team over to Nurse Joy for treatment, then settled into a corner and pulled out his phone.

A message from Looker sent half an hour earlier, was waiting.

Looker:
"I've arrived in Saffron City. How are things on your end?"

Kai:
"I made it back safely to the Pokémon Center. I managed to repel Team Rocket for now, but I'm not sure if they'll come after me again."

Looker:
"That's incredible! To take on such overwhelming odds and win… you're truly impressive. Are you sure you won't reconsider joining the International Police?"

Kai:
"Thanks, but no. I don't want to go through something like that again. How's your injury?"

Looker:
"I'm in the hospital now. The doctor stitched me up, and I'm stable, but I need to rest for a while. I owe you big time. The doctor said if it weren't for the timely treatment, I might not have made it."

Kai paused, his fingers hovering over the keyboard. After some thought, he replied, revealing the location of a hidden Team Rocket base beneath the Game Corner in Celadon City.

If Team Rocket had already targeted him, this was his way of hitting back. The base had been operational for years exposing it would be a devastating blow.

No sooner had Kai sent the message than Looker called him, his voice full of shock.

"Are you sure the base is really there? Is your intel reliable!?"

Though they weren't face-to-face, Kai could picture Looker's astonishment just from his tone.

In the background, a nurse's voice could be heard urging him to calm down.

"Sir, please don't get so worked up! Your wound might reopen!"

Once Looker processed the information, Kai added, "I'm fairly certain, but you'll need to send someone to verify the exact entrance method."

After a long pause, Looker said with admiration, "We've spent years investigating, and you uncover this in half a day? Incredible. I'll report this immediately!"

Kai shook his head. "Don't give me too much credit. I just had some foresight, that's all."

"Wait," Kai continued. "There's something else I need to tell you, but you have to promise not to overreact."

"Nothing could surprise me more than discovering a hidden Team Rocket base!" Looker replied confidently.

Seeing his calm demeanour, Kai dropped the bombshell: "Giovanni, the Viridian Gym Leader, is Team Rocket's boss."

"What!?!"

Looker's voice boomed through the phone, drawing the attention of everyone in the Pokémon Center, including Nurse Joy. Kai winced as his ears rang.

Amid the chaos, the nurse exclaimed, "Sir! Your wound has reopened! Stay still while I get the doctor!"

After a flurry of footsteps and hushed urgency, Looker, now gasping, spoke again. "Giovanni… the Viridian Gym Leader…? Are you certain?"

Kai confirmed it with a hum.

The revelation left Looker speechless. Though shocking, the more he thought about Giovanni's personality, the more it all made sense.

"This changes everything. I need to report this directly to headquarters!"

After hanging up, Kai spent the night at the Pokémon Center. Contrary to his expectations, Team Rocket made no further attempts to retaliate.

The next morning, as he prepared to challenge the Celadon Gym, Looker called again. This time, his tone was grave.

"The Interpol decided to investigate and raid the Team Rocket base. As for Giovanni's identity, it's too sensitive to act on immediately. Verification will take time, but for now, you need to leave the city. It's not safe for you there."

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Don't worry," Kai said solemnly. "After I challenge the Celadon Gym, I'll leave immediately."

"I believe in your strength, so I wish you success in the challenge," Looker said. Then, with a shift in tone, he added, "But I need to let you know something. At the base, a special operations team is being formed as a vanguard. You may be invited to join."

"Me?" Kai was momentarily stunned but quickly agreed. "Of course, I'd be glad to help. Since Team Rocket already sees me as a target, I can't just stand by and do nothing. But who else will be part of this special operations team?"

"Well…" Looker thought for a moment. "Only the best. We'll do our best to invite members of the Elite Four and also reach out to exceptional Gym Leaders from the Pokémon League."

Kai nodded thoughtfully. "If that's the case, the team might just be able to infiltrate and disrupt Team Rocket's base effectively."

After hanging up the phone, Kai followed the main road to the Celadon Gym.

----

The gym's design resembled a school sports facility. Its roof was earthy yellow, and the walls were silver-grey. It stood in the middle of a sprawling garden in the city centre.

As Celadon City's official Pokémon Gym, its leader, Erika, specializes in Grass-type Pokémon. Trainers who manage to defeat her earn the Rainbow Badge.

Inside, the gym had a spacious hall where several women dressed casually in shorts were working. One of them, a blue-haired girl, approached Kai.

"Excuse me, can I help you?"

Kai explained that he was there to challenge the Gym Leader. The girl nodded and led him deeper into the gym.

As they passed through the hall, Kai noticed several glass greenhouses filled with lush greenery.

The greenhouses teemed with vibrant trees, shrubs, and flowers, giving the area the feel of an indoor garden rather than a battle arena.

Speaking of which, the perfume I bought yesterday was made here, Kai realized.

The staff, mostly young, beautiful women, not only maintained the gym but also managed the adjoining perfume shop.

Grass-type Pokémon roamed freely throughout the facility, playing and frolicking under the watchful eyes of the staff. It was clear they were well-cared for.

At the end of the path, they reached an elegantly simple room. Through the window, Kai saw Erika seated on a tatami mat, delicately trimming flowers in a vase while teaching a group of women.

The blue-haired girl noticed Kai's curiosity and explained, "Miss Erika is not just the Gym Leader; she's also a renowned ikebana artist. Every week, people come to learn flower arranging from her. Do you also enjoy ikebana, sir?"

"Well, in a way," Kai replied with a smile. "Arranging flowers is both calming and uplifting. It's a great way to ease the mind."

Soon, the lesson ended. Erika stepped out of the room and immediately recognized Kai.

"You're the one from the shop yesterday," she said with a smile.

"That's right," Kai confirmed. "I hope I wasn't a bother then. Today, I've come to challenge you."

Kai took a moment to observe Erika. She was petite, around eighteen or nineteen, with a graceful presence. Her traditional kimono and serene demeanour reflected her refined style, reminiscent of a Yamato Nadeshiko.

"Well, please follow me," Erika said.

The trio retraced their steps to a fork in the path that led toward the gym's battle arena. Along the way, Kai saw more Grass-type Pokémon.

"Oddish, Bellsprout, Exeggcute, Gloom, Victreebel, Vileplume… You have such a diverse collection of Grass-types," Kai remarked.

Erika smiled. "I've always loved nature and Grass-type Pokémon. They bring me peace. The perfumes in our shop are made using the leaves and flowers from these Pokémon."

At the battlefield, Kai noted its simplicity. The arena was open, with no special terrain that would favour Grass-types.

However, a skylight above allowed sunlight to pour in, illuminating the entire space, a natural advantage for Grass Pokémon during sunny weather.

A blue-haired girl stepped forward to referee.

Erika said, "The rules are simple. Each of us can use three Pokémon. If you manage to defeat all of mine, you win."

With that, she sent out her first Pokémon.

It was a Pokémon completely covered in blue vines. Only its red, boot-like feet and two large eyes were visible through the tangles.

Kai selected his first Pokémon and threw the Poké Ball.

"Go, Charmander!"

The small Fire-type Pokémon emerged, the flame on its tail burning brightly.

Erika frowned slightly but seemed composed. As a Grass-type specialist, she had likely faced countless Fire-type challengers before.

The referee raised her hand. "Begin!"

Erika took the initiative. "Tangela, use Stun Spore!"

"Charmander, Counter with Ember!"

"Charrrrr!"

A cloud of sparkling yellow powder drifted toward Charmander. However, the embers it exhaled ignited the powder in midair, causing it to burst into flames.

The resulting fire blazed toward Tangela, forcing it to evade. Despite Tangela's boosted speed under the sunlight, it narrowly dodged the attack.

Erika's strategy to paralyze Charmander early had failed. Now the battle was swinging in Kai's favor.

-----

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Chapter Text

----

"Charmander, keep using Ember!"

Since fire is super effective against grass, Kai didn't need to adjust his strategy. He relied on fire moves to put heavy pressure on the Tangela.

Erika shouted, "Tangela, use Vine Whip to entangle it!"

Tangela, which had been deftly dodging the flames, suddenly darted forward, its vines writhing and swiftly coiling around Charmander, binding it tightly!

"Closing the distance for a physical attack?" Kai thought, his lips curling into a smirk. "That works in my favour."

With the Chlorophyll ability boosting Tangela's speed in the sunny weather, it had been difficult for Kai to plan an energy-efficient way to end the battle.

But now that Tangela had delivered itself into range, he wasn't about to waste the opportunity.

"Charmander, let your Ember travel along its vines!"

"Chaar..rr..r!"

Despite being tightly squeezed, Charmander strained against the pain.

At Kai's command, it opened its mouth and launched a ball of Ember, sending flames racing along the vines directly toward Tangela!

"Uh-oh!" Erika cried, her voice filled with urgency. "Tangela, let go!"

But it was too late. The fire spread rapidly along the vines, engulfing Tangela in flames.

In the next instant, Tangela was ablaze, resembling a moving fireball!

"Nice work!" Kai said calmly. "Charmander, now get closer!"

When Tangela finally managed to extinguish the flames, it saw an orange figure already rushing toward it.

Before it could react, Kai issued another command. Charmander unleashed another burst of Ember, directly hitting Tangela.

Super effective!

Tangela was left with severe burns. Shaking her head, Erika returned it to its Poké Ball. She then threw out her next Pokémon.

Out emerged a Pokémon resembling a trumpet with a wide mouth. Its yellow body was adorned with large green leaves on either side, and its round black eyes gave it a slightly dazed expression.

Though Charmander had taken minor damage earlier, Kai showed no intention of switching it out & it will help Charmander to become for powerful & maybe he could also evolve.

As the battle began anew, Erika, perhaps mindful of her earlier loss, took the initiative.

"Weepinbell, use Razor Leaf!"

A flurry of sharp leaves shot toward Charmander. Kai motioned with his hand. "Charmander, counter it with Ember!"

The two moves collided mid-air, neutralizing each other with a loud explosion. But when the dust cleared, Weepinbell had vanished.

"Fast! Could it also have the Chlorophyll ability?" Kai exclaimed.

"You guessed right," Erika replied with a sly smile, briefly glancing at the Kirlia standing beside Kai. "Your Pokémon may have the type advantage, but the bright sunshine today has helped level the playing field."

Her tone and subtle smirk carried a teasing challenge. Kai couldn't help but admire her confidence.

Returning his focus to the battle, Kai saw Weepinbell closing in. "Charmander, use Smokescreen!"

A thick black cloud erupted from Charmander's mouth, enveloping the field.

But as the smoke spread, Weepinbell suddenly fired a sticky yellow liquid into the darkness.

"Acid!"

Weepinbell's combination of speed and precision left Charmander no time to evade fully.

Although most of the acid splashed harmlessly, some droplets struck, causing Charmander to wince in pain.

Despite the injury, Charmander steadied itself. The smoke now blanketed half the battlefield, hiding Charmander from view.

The arena grew tense, with a silence so profound you could hear a pin drop. After a long pause with no sign of Charmander, Erika narrowed her eyes at Kai.

"Stalling until the acid's effects fade?" she speculated.

Determined not to let Kai gain the upper hand, Erika shouted, "Weepinbell, use Razor Leaf into the smoke!"

But as the leaves flew, Kai seized the moment.

"Now!"

Charmander burst from the other side of the smoke, ignoring the grazing blows from the Razor Leaf, and launched a direct Ember at Weepinbell!

Weepinbell, still locked in the attack animation, couldn't dodge in time. The flames struck head-on.

Super effective!

But Charmander wasn't done yet. It rushed forward, slashing with its sharp claws before following up with a powerful Dragon Rage, sending Weepinbell flying.

The blue-haired referee raised her hand. "Weepinbell is unable to battle!"

Erika recalled Weepinbell and prepared her third Pokémon. Just as she was about to send it out, a glow enveloped Charmander.

"Huh? Is it evolving?"

Charmander's body began to change, its silhouette growing larger and more powerful. When the light faded, it had evolved into Charmeleon!

Charmeleon's appearance was fiercer, its skin darker, its claws sharper, and its eyes brimming with energy. A horn-like protrusion had also formed on its head.

"Chaaarr! Raaaghh!"

The newly evolved Charmeleon roared, its fighting spirit surging. With this evolution, Kai's starter Pokémon had all reached their second forms.

Erika sighed softly, understanding the stakes had just risen. Despite her reluctance to see her Pokémon hurt, her pride as a Gym Leader drove her forward.

"Go, Gloom!"

----

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Chapter Text

----

As the red light flashed, a Pokémon with short limbs, closed eyes resembling Brock's, and a red-brown flower on its head appeared on the battlefield.

Its shape was similar to the Rafflesia flower found in tropical rainforests.

The stamen on its head was surrounded by four spherical petals, and beneath the massive flower was a body resembling a blue plant bulb.

The air around Gloom was thick with its stench. Even though Kai stood in the trainer's command area, he could smell it from a distance.

Judging from its odour, it seemed to share the same Stench Ability as the Stunky they had encountered the day before.

Kai glanced at his Charmeleon, who, despite the unbearable smell causing it to wince and gag, stood firm, determined not to retreat.

It seemed to have experience battling such opponents before, and its unwavering spirit burned brightly in its eyes.

Knowing the situation would worsen if he delayed, Kai took the initiative. "Charmeleon, start with an attack!"

Charmeleon opened its mouth, unleashing a flame far more powerful and intense than its usual Ember.

"Flamethrower already?" Erika exclaimed, her eyes widening. "Gloom, dodge it!"

Unfortunately for Erika, without Chlorophyll to boost its speed, Gloom's sluggish movements rendered evasion futile. The scorching flames hit their target, engulfing Gloom in a blaze.

As the flames dissipated, Erika called out quickly, "Gloom, use Sleep Powder!"

Recognizing the threat, Kai anticipated her strategy. "Charmeleon, use Smokescreen!"

"Charrrr!"

The black smoke spread across the battlefield, creating a dense veil.

Meanwhile, fine green powder floated from Gloom's flower, mixing into the smoke and dispersing across the arena.

Through the thinning smoke, Erika saw Charmeleon stumble, its movements slowing before it collapsed into a deep sleep.

"Well done! Gloom, use Growth!" Erika commanded.

Gloom's body glowed faintly green as its size increased, and its abilities were further bolstered by the sunlight streaming into the arena.

Kai realized Charmeleon would not awaken without external stimuli, so he remained silent, waiting for Erika's next move.

After a pause, Erika revealed her trump card. "Gloom, use SolarBeam!"

The gloom began absorbing sunlight, particles of light gathering at its stamen.

Within moments, a radiant ball of energy formed, and with a burst of power, it unleashed the SolarBeam.

The beam cut through the remaining smoke, striking Charmeleon squarely. The attack sent it staggering back, nearly knocking it out.

Though Grass moves were only half as effective against Fire types, the boosted power from Growth made the attack devastating.

Charmeleon struggled to rise, its body trembling from exhaustion. But the intense damage also roused it from its slumber.

With a roar, Charmeleon's Blaze Ability activated, igniting its fighting spirit. Without waiting for Kai's command, it charged at Gloom, driven purely by instinct.

"Impressive spirit!" Erika praised. "But with its strength nearly depleted, what can it accomplish? Gloom, use Poison Powder!"

Gloom released a cloud of green powder, forming a toxic barrier. Erika intended to force Charmeleon to retreat, but it pressed forward fearlessly, leaping through the poisonous cloud.

Midair, Charmeleon opened its jaws, its teeth ablaze, and clamped down on Gloom's body.

"Fire Fang!" Erika gasped.

Gloom screeched in pain, flames searing its petals. Erika was about to command a counterattack, but the Poison Powder had finally taken its toll.

Charmeleon wavered and collapsed, succumbing to its injuries.

Erika let out a sigh of relief, but before the referee could declare the match over, something unexpected occurred.

Gloom's body turned bright red, trembling violently.

"A burn!?" Erika exclaimed.

The burn damage from Fire Fang proved too much. Gloom fell, unable to battle.

Both trainers stared in shock as the blue-haired referee finally raised her hand. "Both Pokémon are unable to battle. The challenger wins!"

Kai recalled his Charmeleon, whispering his gratitude. This Gym battle had pushed them both to their limits.

The unexpected burn revealed Charmeleon's true potential, and Kai vowed to nurture it further.

Erika approached with a warm smile. "Congratulations on your victory. Your Charmeleon's determination was truly impressive. You've earned this."

She handed him the Rainbow Badge, a beautifully designed emblem shaped like a blooming flower with petals in rainbow hues.

Kai placed the badge in his case, bowing slightly. "Thank you, Miss Erika. I look forward to our paths crossing again."

As he left the Gym, the Rainbow Badge gleamed in the sunlight a testament to his hard-earned victory.

----

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Chapter Text

----

"Haunter, use Shadow Ball!"

Under the sunny sky of Cerise Park, Haunter and Zapdos darted around in a fierce aerial chase.

Electric- and Ghost-type moves streaked across the battlefield, colliding in flashes of light and shadow.

When one of Haunter's Shadow Balls struck Zapdos, both Pokémon, having expended more than half their stamina, began to tire, signalling the end of their intense training session.

As they descended to the ground, both were visibly out of breath. Judging by the battle, if Haunter hadn't used Hypnosis, their contest would have been entirely even.

After months of training and bonding, Zapdos finally began to lower its guard around Kai.

Though it wasn't fully obedient yet, Kai could command it without much trouble a significant step forward.

Nearby, Ivysaur basked lazily in the sun, Wartortle floated on its back in the pond, Charmeleon rested on a rock with its tail flicking idly, and Jolteon darted around, playfully pestering its teammates.

Suddenly, Kirlia let out a soft cry, catching Kai's attention. With a quick motion, he returned Zapdos to its Poké Ball, while Haunter silently slipped back into his shadow.

Moments later, a boy and a girl entered the park.

It was Chloe and Goh!

Kai picked up a brush from the ground and walked to the pond, calling for Wartortle. While gently scrubbing the gaps in its shell, he asked, "What brings you two here?"

Chloe clasped her hands behind her back, her big eyes sparkling. "Dad mentioned you returned to the lab yesterday. So after school, I came to see Kirlia. Goh insisted on tagging along I had no choice."

Kirlia, ever elegant, bent slightly in a dancer-like bow to Chloe, who returned the gesture with a smile.

Meanwhile, Goh paced the area, hands behind his head, scanning the expansive park. "Is this all the Pokémon you've caught so far, Kai? After travelling for so long? If it were me, I'd have at least a dozen more by now!"

His tone was half-mocking, his confidence evident. The sight of Kai's rare Pokémon had impressed him at first, but now, he seemed less convinced of Kai's prowess.

Before Goh could say more, a large, dark face emerged from Kai's shadow, floating unnervingly close to him.

"Boo!"

"Ahh!" Goh yelped, stumbling back with a high-pitched shriek.

"Heh heh heh!"

But Haunter wasn't finished. In the pond, a huge shape broke the surface of Gyarados. Its ferocious, gaping maw and piercing eyes locked onto Goh, who froze in terror.

"Grrrrrrrr?" (A Kid?)

"Wha—!" With a startled cry, Goh tripped and fell backwards into the water with a loud splash.

Spluttering, he paddled to the edge and scrambled out, soaked and shivering. Goh shot a glare at Haunter. "Why is there a Pokémon hiding in your shadow? And do you have to scare people like that?"

"Jeez, you're jumpy," Haunter replied with a mischievous laugh. "If you're this scared, how do you expect to become a Pokémon Trainer? Maybe you should rethink your career goals!"

"Wait, it can talk?!" Goh gasped, pointing a trembling finger at Haunter.

Haunter rolled its eyes. "Wow, someone's easily impressed, looks like you will not survive in catching the Pokemons" It sank back into Kai's shadow, still snickering.

Kai, unfazed, walked to his backpack and pulled out a neatly wrapped box, handing it to Chloe.

"This is a gift I picked up for you in Celadon City."

"For me?" Chloe exclaimed, her face lighting up as she opened the box. Inside was an elegant bottle of perfume.

She sprayed a little on her wrist, and a delicate fragrance filled the air. "It smells amazing! Just the other day, my classmates were talking about Celadon's perfumes they're supposed to be the best in Kanto!"

Seeing Chloe's delight, Kai felt a sense of relief. Goh, however, scowled slightly at her enthusiasm.

"It's too early for you to be wearing perfume," he grumbled. "Aren't you a little young for that?"

"Ugh, stop being so old-fashioned!" Chloe shot back, rolling her eyes. "Perfume isn't just about smelling nice. It can relax you, boost your mood, and even help you focus. It's not just for adults!"

Goh opened his mouth to retort but found himself at a loss for words.

"Oh, that's right!" Chloe exclaimed, turning back to Kai. "My mom said her latest comic is finished. She asked if you could come by to pick it up when you have time."

"Already?" Kai said, surprised. However, instead of heading to Chloe's house right away, he first returned to the lab to find Professor Cerise.

"Professor, could you transfer Zapdos from this Poké Ball to a Premier Ball?" Kai asked, setting the two balls on the table.

Professor Cerise adjusted his glasses. "Oh? Why the switch?"

Kai sighed. "Zapdos has finally started cooperating, but it's still hung up on being captured in a regular Poké Ball. Using a Premier Ball might ease its mind and make it more comfortable."

"Ah, I see," the professor said with a nod. "No problem leave it to me!"

----

Later at Chloe's House

Inside, Kai sat with Chloe and her mother, Talia Cerise, while Chloe's younger brother, Parker, played outside with his friends.

Kai handed Talia a gift he had brought for her. "You've been working so hard, Mrs. Cerise. This is just a small token of appreciation."

"Oh, you didn't have to!" Talia said though she accepted the gift with a grateful smile.

While Chloe poured tea for everyone, Kai's attention was drawn to a beautifully bound manga sitting on the table.

Opening it, he admired the intricate illustrations. He had read earlier chapters before, but the new pages impressed him even more.

Talia's artistry brought the characters' emotions to life with remarkable detail, capturing the depth and essence of the story flawlessly.

"This is fantastic," Kai said, closing the book with a smile. "When this gets published, I'm sure it'll be a huge hit!"

Talia blushed slightly at the praise. "Thank you. Hearing that makes all the effort worthwhile."

----

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Chapter Text

----

Porta Vista is located between Vermilion City and Maiden's Peak. Until a few months ago, it was just a simple wharf town.

However, due to its location by the sea, a wealthy investor set their sights on the area.

They planned to build a luxurious seaside hotel, hoping to transform Porta Vista into a famous resort destination rivalling Celadon City.

After leaving Vermilion City, Kai passed through Post vista on his way. Unexpectedly, at the pier, he ran into Ash, Misty, and Brock again!

The trio sat lazily on the shore, staring at the endless sea, seemingly lost in thought.

"What are you three doing here?"

Kai's sudden voice startled them.

"Huh? Kai!" Misty exclaimed, springing to her feet. Her earlier listlessness vanished, replaced by vibrant energy.

Brock greeted Kai and then sighed, "We're waiting for the ferry. We originally planned to take the ship to Fuchsia City on the other side of the sea, but we missed it. Now, we'll have to wait at least three hours for the next one."

After chatting, Kai learned that the group had been busy since their last meeting. After challenging the Celadon Gym, they rested in Celadon City for a day, captured a wild Primeape, reunited a lost child with their family, defeated Team Rocket in the Celadon Shopping District, and helped Brock catch a Vulpix!

In terms of adventure, their journey had been rich and colourful.

Ash, however, was more concerned about badges. After hearing that Kai had earned the Rainbow Badge, Ash excitedly asked, "Want to challenge the Fuchsia Gym with us?"

"Not yet," Kai replied politely, shaking his head. "I still have things to handle. You guys should go ahead."

At that moment, Misty noticed something floating in the sea.

"Hey! Look over there! It's a Horsea! So cute!"

Everyone turned to see a Pokémon shaped like a seahorse, with its head partially visible above the water, watching them.

However, Brock quickly noticed something odd. "Strange, it looks injured!"

Kai squinted to get a better look. Indeed, Horsea's face seemed bruised, with a large blue discolouration.

Such a sharp observation!

Kai glanced at Brock, wondering if his constant squinting gave him superior focus.

Horsea didn't flee despite being watched. Instead, it called out a few times before spitting a large puddle of black ink onto the sea, as if trying to convey a message.

The ink spread out and formed a drawing on the water two jellyfish-like shapes.

"Is it... drawing something?" Ash asked, staring at the image. "But why jellyfish?"

Misty, with her love for Water-type Pokémon, pulled out a Poké Ball and aimed it at Horsea.

"If it's injured, helping it should come first! Horsea, come into the Poké Ball!"

Just as Misty was about to throw the Poké Ball, a loud explosion from a distance drew their attention.

A small cargo ship passing near the under-construction Seafoam Hotel had been attacked.

The explosion split the ship in two, and it quickly sank into the sea, emitting thick smoke.

Crew members were thrown overboard in the chaos.

"What's happening?!" Ash and Brock jumped to their feet in shock.

"Now's not the time to wonder!" Misty shouted. "People are in the water! We need to help!"

Energized by anything water-related, Misty put away her Poké Ball, temporarily ignoring Horsea, and released three of her Pokémon.

"Goldeen, Starmie, and Staryu rescue those people!"

Kai released his Wartortle to assist, while Ash and Brock quickly secured a speedboat and headed toward the survivors.

With the speedboat's limited space, Misty joined Ash and Brock while Kai stayed behind, observing.

Beneath the wreckage, he noticed a group of creatures glowing red as they swam away.

As he suspected, this was just like the events of the anime episode a colony of Tentacool and Tentacruel seeking revenge on humans!

After a frantic rescue, the survivors were brought back to the pier. However, they were in bad shape, their bodies paralyzed and unable to move.

"We... were attacked by Pokémon," one crew member gasped, grabbing Brock's arm. "Quickly... notify the president..."

----

In a nearby office, Kai, Ash, Misty, and Brock met the president of the company.

She was a short, elderly woman with a stern demeanour, long red hair tied in a bun, and a sharp tongue.

Four sharply dressed male assistants stood at her side, attending to her every need.

"I heard you rescued my crew," she said. "Thank you very much!"

They learned her name was Nastina. Though eccentric and verbose, she constantly added an air of arrogance to her tone.

"Wait a minute..." Ash stared at her. "Didn't we meet someone like you in Porta Vista?"

Nastina's expression darkened. "Don't compare me to that wretched woman. That's my cousin, and I'm nothing like her!"

"Your cousin?"

Kai couldn't help but shake his head. There seemed to be no end to look-alike characters in the Pokémon world.

Whether it was Officer Jenny, Nurse Joy, or even Professor Oak's cousin in Alola, the resemblances were uncanny.

Nastina led them to a model of the under-construction hotel and explained, "I'm building a tourist resort to surpass Celadon City! The Seafoam Paradise Hotel will be a landmark!"

"But those blasted Tentacool and Tentacruel have been attacking us constantly, delaying my project! It's causing me endless trouble!"

Looking at the group, she proposed, "Since you can handle Pokémon, why not help me drive them away? If you succeed, I'll reward you with 100 million Pokédollars!"

----

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Chapter Text

----

Hearing about the 100 million reward, both Ash and Brock were visibly excited. However, before either of them could speak, Misty loudly refused.

"Stop joking! Who would agree to such a ridiculous request?!"

After speaking, she grabbed Kai's arm and stormed out of the office.

As they walked along the coast in the small town, Ash and Brock were still puzzled over why Misty was so angry.

"Wait a minute, Misty, why don't you want to help her?" Ash asked, confused. "With that reward, I could finally pay you back for your bike!"

"That Nastina is outrageous!" Misty fumed. "Tentacools are so adorable! Why would anyone want to harm them? I'm sure there's a reason they're attacking humans!"

"Tentacool... adorable?" Ash, Brock, and Kai exchanged sceptical glances.

"That's right," Misty said dreamily. "Tentacool feels soft and pleasant, and the red part on their heads is called 'the ruby of the sea.'"

"Ruby?" Ash groaned. "Whenever Water-type Pokémon are involved, you completely change, Misty!"

At that moment, a loud broadcast echoed throughout the town. The voice of Nastina boomed over the speakers:

"To drive away the Tentacool menace, we are recruiting capable trainers! Anyone who can get rid of those hateful Tentacools will receive a reward of 100 million! I want to develop this town, and no Tentacool is going to stop me! Trainers, hurry to the pier!"

The announcement was repeated three times, stirring the trainers in town. Whether motivated by greed, a desire to help, or mere curiosity, crowds began to gather at the port.

"How could she do this?!" Misty exclaimed, frowning. She immediately turned toward the pier, leaving the others to scramble after her.

When they arrived, the pier was already packed. Kai and the others squeezed through the throng to see Nastina sitting in a tank.

To their surprise, Team Rocket was also present, boarding a boat after seemingly accepting the task!

"Team Rocket?!" Misty gasped, her unease growing. "If they're involved, this is going to get even worse!"

Sure enough, Team Rocket's boat sailed toward the coral reef but was swiftly attacked by Tentacool, resulting in an explosion.

Only then did the townspeople realize that tens of thousands of Tentacool had gathered near the reef.

Beneath the water, their dark forms created an ominous shadow, and the glowing red orbs on their heads shimmered with a sinister light, creating an unsettling sight.

But then, something strange occurred. After being doused with an unknown liquid by Team Rocket, one Tentacool suddenly mutated, evolving into a massive Tentacruel towering tens of meters high!

When the enormous Tentacruel emerged, panic erupted among the townspeople. Some, seeing the terrifying sight, quietly fled.

"How did it grow so massive?!" Misty exclaimed, her eyes wide with disbelief.

Kai speculated, "It could be Dynamax energy! Maybe that liquid contained substances imported from the Galar region. That's the only explanation for such an abnormal phenomenon."

"Dynamax?" Ash echoed, intrigued. "Oh, I remember! We saw a giant Pokémon in the fog near Bill's lighthouse. Was that a Dynamax Pokémon too?"

"Who knows," Kai replied, shaking his head. "There are many mysteries in the Pokémon world that science has yet to uncover. There's still so much we don't understand."

Misty chuckled lightly. "You sound like a researcher when you talk like that, Kai."

"Eh? Do I?" Kai asked, surprised. "Maybe it's from spending too much time around Professor Cerise."

Meanwhile, the massive Tentacruel had climbed onto the construction site of the unfinished hotel.

Its tentacles wrapped around the structure, crushing it entirely, like a scene from a monster movie.

Seeing her dreams crumble, Nastina's face paled, and she nearly fainted.

"You destroyed my hotel! I'll never forgive you! Attack! Attack!!" she shrieked.

The tank she was sitting in began firing, and a group of henchmen appeared with rocket launchers, aiming at the colossal Tentacruel.

But their weapons were useless. The attacks bounced harmlessly off Tentacruel's rubbery body, failing to inflict any damage.

Unfortunately, the assault only enraged the Tentacruel further. With a powerful roar, it summoned a massive wave, sending its Tentacool army to invade the town.

"Everyone, stop standing around and run!" Kai yelled, snapping Ash and Brock out of their shock. He grabbed Misty's hand, and they all sprinted away.

But the wave was relentless. Despite running tens of meters, the group was overtaken by the surge.

Behind them, others were swept away, and the town was reduced to chaos as buildings were flooded, cars submerged, and debris scattered everywhere.

"Gyarados" Kai shouted, releasing his Gyarados from its Poké Ball. The group quickly climbed onto its back, and the Water Pokémon carried them to safety.

Eventually, they reached a TV tower on a nearby hill. From there, they looked down at the devastated town below.

The enormous Tentacruel, still furious, continued its rampage. It led its Tentacool swarm deeper into the town, its tentacles destroying everything in sight.

Brock sighed heavily. "So this is what Horsea was trying to warn us about earlier."

"But why are they doing this?" Misty wondered. "If this keeps up, people will only hate them more!"

Kai pointed toward the ruins of the hotel. "Look closely. That hotel was built on a coral reef their home. Humans destroyed their habitat and invaded their territory. This is retaliation."

----

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Chapter Text

----

As the seawater slowly receded, revealing the city overtaken by Tentacool, the residents, whether willing or not had no choice but to make one last stand to protect their land.

After retreating to a safe distance, everyone unanimously released their Pokémon to repel the Tentacool and launch a counterattack.

Seeing this, Brock took out a Poké Ball and called to Ash and Kai, "Let's help too!"

"But..." Ash hesitated. "How are we supposed to fight something that big?"

"Don't overthink it!" Kai released his own Pokémon, calling out, "Let's deal with the smaller Tentacool first! Kirlia, Gyarados, Jolteon, Ivysaur, and Wartortle go help!"

At this critical moment, everyone realized they had no choice but to join the battle.

Ash sent out Pikachu, Pidgeotto, Bulbasaur, and Squirtle. Brock released his Zubat, while Misty attempted to calm the commotion through persuasion.

"It's no use," Kai warned, pulling Misty back as she tried to intervene. "Until the Tentacruel's anger subsides, it won't listen to reason. We need to let it calm down first if we're to communicate with it."

If anyone else had said this, Misty, true to her fiery personality, would likely have argued.

But coming from Kai, she felt strangely convinced. Reluctantly, she nodded. "Alright. Then I'll help too! Go, Staryu, Starmie, and Goldeen!"

As the trainer's Pokémon joined the fray, the battle intensified, spreading across every corner of the city.

In such a chaotic, large-scale melee, issuing individual orders was nearly impossible.

The trainers had to rely on their Pokémon's instincts and past experiences to fight effectively.

Despite their best efforts, the overwhelming number of Tentacools and the immense power of the colossal Tentacruel made it impossible to gain the upper hand.

As the battle dragged on and the city suffered extensive damage, Kai realized something had to be done.

Hesitating for only a moment, he turned to Misty and said softly, "I'll leave my Pokémon to you for now I need to take care of something."

"Huh?" Misty asked, puzzled. "Where are you going?"

Kai raised a finger to his lips, signalling for silence. Without explaining further, he slipped away from the group, heading toward the back of the TV tower.

Once out of sight, Kai crouched in a quiet corner and retrieved a Gengar mask from his bag. His Haunter emerged from the shadows, its mischievous grin as sharp as ever. It seemed to have already guessed Kai's plan.

"You're really going through with this?" Haunter asked.

Kai smirked. "What? Planning to stop me?"

"Stop you?" Haunter cackled. "This sounds too fun to miss!"

"Good. I'm counting on you to watch my back!" Kai declared.

He donned the mask and noticed a black raincoat snagged on a nearby bush.

Using its hood as a makeshift cloak, he draped it over himself, ensuring his identity would remain concealed even from those who knew him well.

With his preparations complete, Kai released his Zapdos.

As soon as the legendary bird appeared, it spread its wings and let out an electrifying cry.

Zapdos, like most legendary Pokémon, disliked being confined in a Poké Ball and made its irritation clear.

"Zapdos," Kai began, "this time, we're facing a huge and powerful opponent. I'm counting on you."

The Zapdos stared at Kai for a moment before nodding begrudgingly.

"Good. Take me to the top of the TV tower," Kai said, pointing to the spire.

Zapdos narrowed its eyes, clearly displeased. It squawked as if to say, I'm not your personal transport!

"Come on, don't look at me like that," Kai coaxed. "Without Kirlia, I can't teleport up there, and the tower's height gives us the perfect vantage point to command the battle."

Zapdos turned its gaze to Haunter as if seeking support.

"It's true," Kai added quickly. "Haunter would give me away. If I bring it with me, people might recognize who I am. I really need your help here."

Without waiting for Zapdos' approval, Kai leapt onto its back and wrapped his arms tightly around its neck.

The legendary bird bucked and twisted, trying to shake him off, but Kai clung stubbornly.

"Alright, Zapdos, no more wasting time!" Kai urged. "This city needs us let's go!"

Reluctantly, Zapdos gave in. With a powerful flap of its wings, it soared into the sky, carrying Kai toward the top of the TV tower.

As they ascended, Kai noticed how the bird's rigid, lightning-charged feathers prickled against his skin.

The faint smell of ozone filled the air, mingling with the salty sea breeze whipping through his hair.

Zapdos' speed was astonishing. Within moments, it reached the tower's rooftop.

Kai dismounted smoothly, landing lightly before turning his gaze to the enormous Tentacruel in the distance.

"Look at that, Zapdos," Kai said, pointing. "That's Tentacruel, our target. It may be massive, but it's still a jellyfish. With its Water/Poison typing, we have the advantage!"

"Zzzraaaawwwkkkk!!"

Zapdos' eyes gleamed with determination. Letting out a fierce cry, it charged toward the Tentacruel without hesitation.

Down below, the trainers continued their desperate battle.

Despite their Pokémon's valiant efforts, the sheer number of Tentacools overwhelmed them.

Suddenly, a brilliant golden streak of lightning lit up the sky. Someone shouted, "Look it's Zapdos!"

All heads turned skyward. As they saw the legendary Pokémon

----

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----

"Zapdos!? It's really Zapdos!?"

"Why is this Legendary Pokémon here!?"

The crowd erupted into astonished chatter. The sudden appearance of Zapdos captivated their attention even more than the massive Tentacruel.

Just as someone considered abandoning the Tentacool and Tentacruel to follow Zapdos, they witnessed it flying at incredible speed toward the giant Tentacruel and launching an attack!

"What!? It's attacking the giant Tentacruel!?"

People were stunned momentarily before realizing something.

"Does Zapdos already have a Trainer?"

Their eyes followed the direction Zapdos had come from. After searching, they finally spotted a figure on the TV tower a man wearing a black robe and a Gengar mask.

The man's identity was obscured; his face and age were indeterminate due to the distance and the mask.

The crowd could only see his mouth moving slightly, as though giving commands.

On the roof, Kai stood on the edge of the tower, glancing down nervously. "Haunter... I'm starting to think I'm a little afraid of heights. My legs are shaking so much...!"

From within Kai's shadow, Haunter's eyes gleamed. It sighed in exasperation. "If you're scared of heights, you should step back. Stop looking down and focus on Zapdos's battle!"

"No way!" Kai replied with determination. "You can only overcome fear by facing it head-on. But... if I accidentally fall, you'll save me, right? Hey, why are you quiet all of a sudden? Say something!"

Haunter emerged slightly, feigning annoyance. "Ugh, I didn't realize you could be this chatty. Fine, if you fall, I'll catch you exactly 0.01 meters before you hit the ground. Maybe then you'll learn how scary a Haunter rescue can be! Hehehehheheheh"

Haunter's dark humour lightened Kai's mood. Looking below, he saw his other Pokémon battling countless Tentacools under Misty's command.

"She is handling them better than expected," Kai thought to himself.

The crowd was captivated. Many began recording Kai and Zapdos with their phones.

"Good thing I planned ahead," Kai mused. "Otherwise, I'd be completely exposed by now."

In the distance, Zapdos soared around the massive Tentacruel, electricity surging from its wings as it attacked.

The Tentacruel retaliated, firing laser-like beams from the ruby atop its head.

Despite being struck multiple times by Zapdos's electric attacks, the enormous Tentacruel seemed unfazed, its durability boosted by its sheer size.

Kai shouted, "Zapdos! Don't hold back use Thunderbolt!"

As if hearing him through the wind, Zapdos unleashed an overwhelming surge of electricity.

Lightning radiated in all directions, hitting not only the Tentacruel but also the Tentacool surrounding it.

The Tentacool were instantly incapacitated, floating unconscious on the water's surface.

Finally, the giant Tentacruel roared in pain, its tentacles writhing.

One of its tentacles lifted Meowth Team Rocket's Meowth, to be precise. Controlled by poison affecting its nervous system, Meowth's voice echoed with Tentacruel's fury:

"We are Tentacruel and Tentacool! You humans destroyed our habitat, so we will destroy your city in revenge! Feel the despair of losing your home!"

Tentacruel turned its gaze toward Zapdos.

"And you! You're a Pokémon like us why side with humans!?"

Zapdos's response was swift and decisive: another thunderous strike.

Tentacruel, enraged, lashed out with its many tentacles, but not one grazed Zapdos's feathers.

Realizing Zapdos was untouchable, Tentacruel shifted its attention to Kai, moving its massive body toward the TV tower.

Any Pokémon in its path was mercilessly swatted aside. Seeing this, Kai acted quickly.

"Zapdos! Stop it with Drill Peck!"

Zapdos swooped down, spinning rapidly in midair. Its beak glowed as it struck Tentacruel with tremendous force. Tentacruel roared in pain, the impact echoing across the city.

The battle left spectators in awe.

"Wow... incredible!"

"Is this the power of a Legendary Pokémon!?"

Trainers, including Ash and Brock, gazed at Zapdos with admiration.

As tempting as it was for any trainer to imagine capturing a Legendary Pokémon, Tentacruel wasn't defeated yet.

It fired a powerful laser beam directly at the TV tower, striking the structure near Kai's position.

The impact caused the tower to tremble and collapse under Kai's feet. As debris fell, Kai plummeted toward the ground but Zapdos swooped in and caught him just in time.

"Hah!" Kai exhaled in relief. His heart pounded from the close call. "Tentacruel sure knows how to aim for the leader... Thanks, Zapdos! After all the hits you've taken, you still saved me!"

For a moment, Zapdos considered dropping him again.

Suddenly, Tentacruel fired another round of beams. Carrying Kai, Zapdos's speed was hindered, and it narrowly avoided the attacks.

"This isn't working," Kai muttered. "Zapdos! Use that move!"

Zapdos nodded, and Kai leapt off its back, astonishing the crowd.

In a breathtaking display, Kai seemed to defy gravity, gliding effortlessly back to the tower's top. His descent against the wind left onlookers speechless.

"My god! How did he do that!?" someone exclaimed.

----

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----

Kai's ability to fly was naturally thanks to Haunter.

As long as Haunter was by his side, there was no need to worry about accidents; he could surf through the skies freely!

"Screeaaawkkk!!"

With Zapdos's enraged cry, dark clouds rapidly spread over the city. The thick, overlapping clouds turned the sky into a pitch-black abyss.

Under the TV tower, Ash and Pikachu exchanged a glance before looking up at Zapdos, whose brilliance pierced through the stormy sky like a beacon. The light seemed to flow in Ash's eyes.

"This move is…"

"That's Thunder," Brock said knowingly. "It's one of the most powerful Electric-type moves. On a rainy day like this, it's almost impossible to dodge!"

"Krrrraaaaakkkkkkk!!!!!"

As the power of lightning reached its peak, Zapdos let out another thunderous cry. A colossal bolt of electricity struck the massive Tentacruel, its roar loud enough to shake the heavens.

The giant Tentacruel couldn't endure the attack any longer and collapsed! Whether from exhaustion or unconsciousness, its body shrank, returning to its normal size.

Cheers erupted from the crowd. With their leader defeated, the Tentacool scattered, retreating from the city.

Zapdos glided through the air before flying back toward the TV tower. Seizing the moment, Kai leapt onto its back.

Under the watchful eyes of the crowd, humans and Pokémon swiftly disappeared behind the tower.

Before long, Kai removed his mask, blended into the crowd, and returned to the TV tower as if nothing had happened.

The aftermath of the attack was staggering. The Tentacruel incident had caused tens of billions in damages, leaving countless buildings in ruins and properties destroyed.

Nastina, who had invested heavily in Porta Vista, not only lost her assets but also her reputation. Her dream of further investment was shattered.

The tragedy left many wondering how the city would recover and what lessons could be learned.

Ash and Brock, caught up in the excitement of the battle, didn't notice Kai's departure.

Misty, however, seemed to sense something. She smiled subtly in Kai's direction but said nothing.

As the group regrouped, they noticed Horsea approaching Misty. During the chaos, Misty had tended to Horsea's injuries and even protected him.

Touched by her kindness, Horsea decided to join her as her Pokémon.

After hours of effort, the group set up camp outside the city to rest and share a meal.

Kai took his first taste of Brock's cooking and was immediately impressed.

"Wow, this is amazing!" Kai said, giving a thumbs-up. "Compared to your cooking, everything I make is an insult to my stomach. I need to find someone with your skills to travel with someday!"

Kai wasn't exaggerating. Brock's care and skill transformed simple ingredients into extraordinary dishes, delighting both humans and Pokémon alike.

Embarrassed by the praise, Brock took out some recipes and handed them to Kai.

"These are pretty simple, but if you follow the instructions, they'll turn out great!"

"Thanks a lot!" Kai said, carefully tucking the recipes away.

Meanwhile, footage of Zapdos battling Tentacruel had already gone viral online, spreading to regions far and wide.

The mysterious figure with the ghost mask and the sheer power of Zapdos became hot topics of discussion.

Many speculated about the identity of the masked trainer, while others marvelled at Zapdos's strength.

Later, the group prepared to part ways. Though Misty felt sad, she understood it was time to move on.

Before leaving, Kai handed her a small gift box.

"Take this. I bought it for you in Celadon City. I hope you like it."

Blushing slightly, Misty accepted the box without opening it.

It didn't matter what was inside; even if it was just candy, she would cherish it.

As Kai's silhouette disappeared into the distance, Misty's eyes grew misty. She whispered softly, "Mr Kai..., let's meet again."

Ash's ears perked up. "Huh? Mr Kai? Why are you calling him that?"

"Idiot!" Misty snapped, blushing fiercely. Grabbing Ash's ear, she retorted, "It's basic politeness! He's older than us, so it's normal to call him 'Mr.'"

"Oh, I see!" Ash said, nodding. "Then I'll call him 'big brother Kai', it sounds nice!"

After leaving Porta Vista, Kai headed north, eventually arriving at Maiden's Peak.

It felt strange returning after so many days, but Kai didn't dwell on it. He made his way to the Maiden Shrine, where he found the old priest sweeping the courtyard.

Upon hearing Kai's plan to use comics to share the story of Maiden's Peak, the priest nodded energetically.

"That's a wonderful idea! Thank you so much."

The priest hesitated only when Kai mentioned involving the whole town. "This story is deeply rooted in our town's history, so I can't make this decision alone. Let me inform the mayor. He'll want to hear about this."

Kai was taken aback. He had only intended to honour the spirit of the Maiden and reassure Haunter, not to involve local politics. But now, it seemed his plan was garnering more attention than he'd expected.

----

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----

When a young mayor, wearing gold-rimmed glasses and exuding an air of politeness, arrived at the shrine, Kai recounted the story to him.

The mayor listened attentively, flipping through the manga, then lifted his head slightly. His glasses reflected a glint of light, revealing his sharp interest.

As a mayor elected by the local business community, he had a keen eye for spotting lucrative opportunities.

Maiden Peak, known for its legendary tale of the Maiden, attracted tourists during specific times of the year.

However, aside from that, it lacked unique features. Nearby attractions such as the renowned Celadon City and the bustling Vermilion Harbor overshadowed it, leaving Maiden Peak relatively unnoticed.

"If this manga gains popularity, it could attract more young people to this area," the mayor mused. "We could host stage plays, otaku culture events, comic exhibitions, and sell themed merchandise just like the major cities. This would surely boost tourism and make this town stand out."

"I heard you're planning to donate the manga to the shrine?"

"That's right," Kai nodded. While he had spent considerable time and effort on the manga, he had never intended to profit from it.

To Kai's surprise, the mayor offered a different perspective. "Creating the story and artwork must have been no small feat. I'd like to purchase the copyright from you. What do you think?"

"Huh? Purchase it?" Kai was taken aback. "But this manga is adapted from the local legend of the Maiden. Do I even own the rights? Besides, it's uncertain if it'll become popular."

The mayor smiled confidently. "I have my ways to manage those matters. With the full support of Maiden Peak, I believe a little promotion can yield substantial results."

Kai understood the mayor's intent: buying the rights at a low price now would prevent disputes and complications if the manga became a success later.

However, the offered sum felt like a windfall to Kai, who was struggling financially.

To demonstrate sincerity, the mayor offered 20,000($) and transferred the amount immediately.

Kai's dwindling savings suddenly surged, giving him a sense of financial relief.

After signing the agreement, Kai left the shrine and promptly transferred 10,000($) to Chloe, asking her to send it to her mother.

Shortly after, Professor Cerise's wife, Talia, called. At first, she refused to accept the money, but Kai eventually convinced her.

With this, the matter of Maiden Peak finally came to a close.

As the manga began circulating, Haunter no longer had to worry about the legend being forgotten.

Freed from that burden, he could now travel wholeheartedly with Kai!

----

The Outskirts of Celadon City
Dressed in a Gengar-themed mask and a black cloak, Kai approached a heavily guarded temporary camp.

The stationed officers, noticing his suspicious attire, immediately drew their weapons and surrounded him.

"Stop! Who are you?"

Kai spoke calmly. "Looker called me. Please let him know I'm here."

The officers hesitated but relayed the message. Shortly after, Looker emerged, looking slightly fatigued.

"Why are you wearing that mask again? Take it off!"

Kai shook his head. "No. I learned my lesson with Team Rocket last time. From now on, it's safer to stay masked during operations like these."

Looker chuckled helplessly. "You're already on their radar. A mask won't change that. But suit yourself. Come in."

Inside the camp, Kai observed SWAT officers armed to the teeth, police Growlithe teams patrolling diligently, and rows of armoured vehicles and helicopters on standby.

"With this level of firepower, you're going all out," Kai remarked.

Looker nodded. "We've pinpointed Team Rocket's hideout. Apart from the underground Game Corner tunnels, we uncovered another exit outside the city."

Noticing Looker's laboured breathing, Kai asked, "How's your injury?"

"Nothing serious," Looker replied with a wave. "The doctors insisted on rest, but this situation is urgent. Otherwise, they'd never have let me out of the hospital."

Kai couldn't help but marvel at the advanced healthcare in the Pokémon world.

Humans and Pokémon alike could recover remarkably quickly with proper treatment from a Pokémon Center.

"And yet you're still here?" Kai asked sceptically. "Interpol doesn't rely on just you, right?"

"Of course not," Looker said, gesturing around. "These officers are from HQ, and even my boss is here, leading from the frontlines."

Before Kai could respond, a familiar figure caught his eye.

A tall woman with sleek black hair, dressed in a sharp outfit, stood out among the crowd. Her piercing gaze fixed on Kai.

It was Sabrina.

Kai hadn't seen her in a while and didn't expect her to join this operation.

"Last time, you said we'd meet again soon," Kai said, approaching her. "I didn't think it'd be this quick!"

Sabrina's eyes seemed to pierce through Kai's mask, meeting him directly.

"I had a feeling you'd come," she said. "So I waited. Looks like I was right."

Looker took a step back, startled.
'What's going on here?'

The aloof, psychic-powered Sabrina, known for her cold demeanour, was speaking warmly to someone. Looker could hardly believe it.

"By the way," Kai said, rummaging through his bag, "I brought this for you."

He handed Sabrina a gift box containing perfume.

"It's a token of thanks for your help last time. Please, take it."

----

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----

When Kai walked into the lounge, several people were already scattered about.

At the front sat a handsome man with a serious face. His spiky, fiery red hair added to his intense aura, and he wore a black cloak that further emphasized his commanding presence.

His sharp eyes seemed to pierce through everything. Beside him lay a Dragonite, curled up lazily on the floor, dozing off.

In the corner was an elderly woman wearing a purple robe, leaning on a cane. Her hair had turned a greyish-yellow hue, and her demeanour was untouchable.

With her imposing aura, one might mistake her for a wicked witch if they didn't know better.

Next to her sat an old man with greying hair and prominent dark circles under his eyes. His haggard appearance made him seem more unwell than one might expect.

Despite wearing a SWAT uniform, he had it open at the chest and paired it with slippers, giving off a starkly casual and almost careless vibe.

And then there was Erika, the Gym Leader of Celadon City, seated elegantly yet watchful of her surroundings.

With Kai's arrival, the lineup for this special operations team was complete: Sabrina, Erika, and the others now formed a full team with him.

As soon as Kai entered, all eyes were on him.

"Why are you still wearing a mask?" the old man quipped, raising an eyebrow. "You're not some undercover agent on a secret mission, are you?"

Erika observed Kai from a distance, her brow furrowing slightly. There was something familiar about his figure, but since she'd only encountered him a few times, she couldn't immediately place him.

However, Sabrina walked past Erika, and the faint scent of perfume wafted to her nose. Erika's sharp sense of smell immediately identified it it was one of her store's unique perfumes.

When Sabrina had left earlier, she hadn't been wearing perfume. Moreover, as a Gym Leader, her visits to the perfume shop would have been unforgettable to the staff.

Erika's mind raced. It didn't take long for her to piece together the story, realizing Kai's identity and deducing that the perfume was a gift from him.

Erika's eyes narrowed as a flurry of questions arose in her mind. What is their relationship? Why did he give Sabrina perfume? And more astonishingly... why did Sabrina accept it?

Meanwhile, the man in the black cloak walked to the tactical board. He addressed the group, his authoritative voice drawing their attention.

"Now that everyone is here, let's start with introductions. But…" His gaze lingered on Kai's Gengar mask, and he sighed helplessly. "Forget it. You can introduce yourself."

Kai cleared his throat. "Hello, everyone. My name… well, my code name is Player. I specialize in using Ghost-type Pokémon. Please take care of me."

Code name? Player?

The man's expression darkened, but he chose not to comment. Instead, he introduced the others.

"On the left, we have two of the Kanto Elite Four: Ms. Agatha, the Ghost-type Master, and Mr. Lance, the Dragon-type Master and a Pokémon Investigator."

Agatha chuckled lightly. "Oh dear, calling me Ms. at my age? You're making me blush." She nodded at Kai, her sharp eyes glinting. "Young man, wearing a Gengar mask and claiming to specialize in Ghost-types bold, aren't you? Fewer and fewer trainers appreciate Pokémon that carry the essence of death."

Kai accepted the remark calmly. Although he only had Haunter, it was by far his strongest Pokémon. In that sense, her observation wasn't wrong.

Lance stepped forward and shook Kai's hand firmly. "Welcome. Your presence here speaks to your capabilities. On behalf of the team, I welcome you aboard."

Kai nodded, appreciating Lance's professionalism.

The cloaked man then turned to the others. "You already know Sabrina, so no introductions are needed there. And Erika… well, you've met before, so I'll skip that too."

Finally, his gaze rested on the old man with the haggard appearance. "This is Mr. Nanu, my former superior. He's an expert in Dark-type Pokémon and the Kahuna of Ula'ula Island in the Alola region."

Nanu waved dismissively. "Oh, don't mind me. Just an old man counting the days to retirement. Let's get this over with so I can go back to my peaceful life."

The man in the cloak laughed. "You're still young, Mr. Nanu. Why rush to retire?"

Before Nanu could respond, the lounge door opened, and a bald man in a sharp suit entered. His presence commanded immediate respect, and the atmosphere grew serious.

"Is everyone here?" the man asked.

The cloaked man saluted. "Yes, Commander. All seven members of the Special Operations Team are present!"

The bald man nodded. "I am Zero, the commander-in-chief of this operation. Thank you all for gathering here to tackle the menace of Team Rocket, not just for Kanto but for the world."

Applause followed, led by Nanu, albeit half-heartedly.

Zero flipped the tactical board and continued. "This mission has two phases. The primary unit, consisting of International Police SWAT forces, will launch a frontal assault on the base using armoured vehicles and helicopters. Their attack will draw Team Rocket's attention."

"Meanwhile, your Special Operations Team will infiltrate the base via the underground entrance beneath Celadon City's Game Corner. Once inside, you'll neutralize key operatives and assist in the overall takedown."

Lance asked, "What about Giovanni?"

"Good question." Zero's expression darkened. "The other two members of the Elite Four, Bruno and Lorelei, are stationed in Viridian City. When the time comes, they'll storm the Viridian Gym to apprehend Giovanni."

Agatha sighed. "It's still hard to believe that someone like Giovanni, admired as Viridian City's Gym Leader, is the leader of Team Rocket."

Zero smirked. "The more successful a man appears, the more secrets he hides. No one is exempt from the truth eventually surfacing."

----

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-----

Celadon City

At nine o'clock in the morning, two sleek black cars pulled up outside the bustling Celadon Game Corner, one after the other.

The street buzzed with activity vehicles of all sizes flowing continuously, and pedestrians hurrying about their day. No one paid much attention to the two cars stopping abruptly.

"Is it time?" asked a young man seated in the passenger seat, his face hidden behind a Gengar mask.

The driver, a frail-looking man, glanced at the dashboard and nodded. "Right on schedule."

"Shall we move?"

"Not yet. We need to wait for the signal. Team Rocket has eyes everywhere here. Stay alert."

"Understood!"

"Hey, hey!" interrupted Erika, her tone a mix of annoyance and amusement. "Could you two talk normally? You're making it sound like we're spies in a bad movie!"

"Ah, my bad!" the man in the driver's seat, known simply as Looker, replied sheepishly. "It's just that Kai's mask gives off such a villainous vibe. I can't help but get into character!"

Kai shot him a solemn look. "Mr. Looker, please refrain from making careless remarks."

"Huh? What did I say wrong?" Looker blinked in confusion, sensing an unexpected seriousness.

Kai responded with deliberate precision: "When we're in action, do not call me by my name. Use my codename instead of 'Player'!"

"...Seriously?" Looker exhaled, his frustration evident. "I thought it was something urgent, but you're just nitpicking about a name!?"

"Of course," Kai replied earnestly. "It makes us sound more professional."

From the backseat, Erika covered her mouth, trying to stifle her laughter, while Sabrina allowed the faintest smile to touch her lips.

Suddenly, a distant explosion echoed from outside the city, followed by the relentless crackling of what sounded like fireworks or gunfire. Despite the distance, the noise carried clearly.

Pedestrians paused, looking toward the outskirts of Celadon City, but their view was obstructed by towering buildings.

"Is that the signal?" Kai asked, his tone sharpening.

Looker checked his watch, nodding decisively. "Time's up. Let's move!"

At his command, the group exited the vehicles. From the car behind them, Lance, Agatha, and Nanu emerged, their expressions grim and focused.

Without hesitation, the team made their way into the Game Corner.

Inside, the atmosphere was lively, with players engrossed in various arcade games.

The sudden arrival of the group drew curious and startled glances from the patrons.

Ignoring the stares, Kai and the others headed for a seemingly ordinary staircase leading to the second floor.

Instead of ascending, Looker began examining the wall near a poster. After a few moments, he found a concealed switch hidden behind it.

With a press of the button, the floor opened, revealing a staircase descending underground.

At last, the veil over Team Rocket's long-hidden secret base in Celadon City was lifted!

Two disguised Rocket grunts, posing as Game Corner employees, rushed over upon hearing the commotion.

The moment they saw the hidden entrance exposed, their faces turned pale.

"Intruders!" one of them shouted.

Before they could sound an alarm, Lance and Nanu surged forward. With swift precision, they knocked the grunts unconscious and dragged them into a corner.

The team descended into the hidden base, their anticipation growing. The underground space was vast, illuminated by bright lights and filled with advanced equipment.

However, the flashing red alarms on the walls signalled a disturbance. The International Police and a Special Task Force were attacking another entrance to the base on the outskirts of Celadon, diverting Team Rocket's attention.

"Perfect," Looker said with satisfaction. "Everything is going according to plan. Let's split up as discussed!"

Nodding in agreement, everyone released their Pokémon and divided into two groups, heading down separate corridors to secure critical areas like the control room, R&D lab, archives, armoury, and power generator.

Their objective: outmaneuver Team Rocket and take control of these key locations.

Kai teamed up with Looker, Erika, and Sabrina. They moved quickly, taking down any Rocket grunts they encountered.

However, the deeper they went, the stronger the resistance grew.

Team Rocket operatives armed with firearms and groups of Pokémon launched coordinated attacks, forcing the team to fight with all their might.

"These guys are tougher than the usual grunts!" Looker exclaimed, narrowly dodging an Acid Spray that melted part of a nearby wall. He wiped the sweat from his brow, his face pale.

Kai commanded his Haunter to unleash a Shadow Ball, taking out several opposing Pokémon. "Not just tougher they're more experienced too!"

"Over here!" Erika suddenly called out, pointing to a large, reinforced door. "This looks like the R&D lab!"

Looker inspected the door and peered through a small glass panel. "You're right. This is where they develop their tech and equipment. But the door's too thick we can't break it open."

"Leave it to me," Sabrina said, stepping forward. Her eyes glowed with psychic energy, and the supposedly indestructible door bent and tore apart under the force of her Psychic attack.

Inside, the lab was in disarray. Papers littered the floor, and coffee mugs lay shattered. It was clear the researchers had fled in a hurry.

"Damn it!" Looker growled, rushing to the computers. He began typing furiously, searching for any useful data that might have been left behind.

Meanwhile, Kai wandered through the room, observing the still-active equipment. Among the clutter, a peculiar pair of binoculars caught his eye.

The device was sleek, with a white body and faintly glowing blue lenses. Curious, Kai picked it up.

"What's this?" he muttered, examining the object.

Out of curiosity, he held it up to his eyes. To his surprise, the binoculars didn't magnify, zoom in, or offer any special vision capabilities everything appeared normal.

However, when he turned toward his Haunter, something extraordinary happened.

----

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Chapter Text

----

At this time, Haunter floated quietly in place, its large eyes watching Kai intently.

Its body shimmered faintly, appearing semi-transparent, though it didn't fully manifest.

However, through the pair of binoculars in Kai's hands, Haunter's appearance was vividly clear.

Even its faintly missing parts were now visible with striking detail.

Kai lowered the binoculars, and Haunter's appearance returned to normal, leaving him stunned.

"Eh? Why are you looking at me like that?" Haunter asked curiously.

Kai replied, "Your body is invisible without these binoculars, but I can see you perfectly with them."

Haunter looked surprised. "What? These glasses are that powerful?"

Kai nodded thoughtfully. "If I'm not mistaken, this must be the Silph Scope."

"The Silph Scope? What's that?"

As Erika and Sabrina approached, Kai explained, "It's a high-tech device created by the Silph Company. It allows the user to see things the naked eye can't like invisible Ghost Pokémon. It can see through smokescreens, detect hidden enemies, and even reveal psychic energy fluctuations in the air."

"That's incredible!" Haunter exclaimed.

Kai turned toward Sabrina, his expression serious. "This could very well be loot stolen by Team Rocket from the Silph Company during their last raid."

Sabrina surveyed the lab with a discerning gaze, her expression calm but sharp. "If that's the case, they're probably trying to reverse-engineer it for mass production."

Kai was about to reply when the door to the R&D lab suddenly burst open. Several figures stormed in, their faces familiar.

Dressed in berets and black uniforms, they were members of the Elite Rocket Strike Force that had previously tangled with Kai. At their forefront was the burly, one-eyed commander Gozu.

"You damn pests!" Gozu bellowed, his one good eye narrowing as he locked onto Kai and Looker. "Breaking in here again?! This time, without those two idiots from before, I'll crush you for good!"

The sight of Gozu made Looker wince, the memory of his previous injury still fresh. He clenched his fists and shouted, "Gozu! You coward! You'll pay for your sneak attack last time. This time, I'll make sure Team Rocket is finished!"

As the two exchanged heated words, their Pokémon leapt into action. On both sides, the air filled with battle cries and the flash of attacks.

Kai tucked the Silph Scope into his backpack and prepared to command Haunter to join the fray, but Looker stopped him.

"We can't all get caught up here," Looker said firmly. "You and the others need to move on. Don't let them destroy any more data!"

"You're suggesting we split up again?" Kai frowned. "If we keep dividing our forces, we'll lose our advantage."

Kai preferred sticking together as a unit to ensure everyone's safety. However, he understood that Looker, as an international officer, prioritized completing the mission above all else.

"Don't worry," Looker said with a forced smile, trying to seem nonchalant. "I'll meet up with you after I take care of these guys!"

"Alright, I'm counting on you!" Kai replied reluctantly.

Seeing them preparing to leave, Gozu yelled furiously, "Trying to escape? None of you are getting away! Aggron, use Head Smash!"

With heavy, resounding steps, Aggron charged toward Kai and the others.

Before it could connect, Sabrina stepped forward, her eyes glowing as she used her psychic powers to halt the massive Pokémon mid-charge.

"I'll stay and help Looker," Sabrina said without turning her head. "You two, keep moving!"

The situation reminded Kai of the events at the Silph Co. building. Without hesitation, he and Erika made their way through the back exit, leaving the fight behind.

Navigating through a long corridor, they reached the core area of the base, where an elevator stood waiting. Kai pressed the button, but the elevator didn't budge.

Erika pointed to a card slot on the control panel. "Looks like we need a key card to activate it. Let's find another way."

The two pressed onward, passing through several rooms before entering what appeared to be the base's cafeteria.

They stopped abruptly, not because of the rows of dining tables but because two figures were seated at the far end of the room.

Though they were calmly eating, it was clear from their demeanour that they had been waiting for this encounter.

One of them was Ariana, the Rocket executive Kai had previously faced at the Silph Co.

The man beside her, dressed in the same white Team Rocket uniform, had sharp features and short blue hair.

Finishing his meal, the man dabbed his mouth with a napkin and slowly stood up. His piercing gaze settled on Kai.

"So, you're the one who caused all that trouble," the man said coldly. "Unfortunately for you, this is where your journey ends."

The walls around them suddenly burst apart, and a massive, Godzilla-like Pokémon charged forward.

The Tyranitar slammed into Erika, who staggered backwards before Kai caught her just in time.

Blood trickled from the corner of her mouth as she grimaced. "That's a Tyranitar," she murmured, her tone grave.

Kai gently set her down and stepped protectively in front of her. "Looks like one more intro is coming" he mocked.

The man stepped forward, a cold smile on his face. "I'm Archer, one of Team Rocket's four executives. Like Ariana, Petrel(Lambda), and Proton, I'm here to ensure you go no further."

Ariana smirked. "Take off your ridiculous mask. Do you really think it can hide your identity from me?"

As she spoke, she released her Arbok and Honchkrow.

"Maybe you should remove your makeup first & show us your real face" Kai taunted

Kai realized there was no avoiding the battle. With a flick of his wrist, he tossed his Poké Balls into the air.

In flashes of light, Kirlia, Jolteon, Charmeleon, Wartortle, and Ivysaur appeared, taking defensive positions around him.

On Erika's side, her Vileplume and Exeggutor readied themselves for battle.

"GRAAAWWRRRRHHH!!!"

With a roar from Tyranitar, the two sides clashed in a storm of moves, the battle beginning in earnest!

----

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Chapter Text

----

Seeing the scene becoming increasingly chaotic, Kai quickly issued commands to reorganize the battlefield.

"Kirlia, Charmeleon—take on Murkrow!"

"Jolteon, Wartortle—handle Arbok!"

"Ivysaur, team up with Exeggutor and Vileplume to take down Tyranitar!"

Hearing his orders, the Pokémon promptly adjusted their tactics.

Meanwhile, Kai turned to Haunter and commanded, "Haunter, take them out one by one!"

"Got it!"

Haunter disappeared from sight, only to reappear near Arbok. The Arbok, twisting its body, narrowly avoided a Flamethrower attack before countering with a burst of Acid, splashing it toward its two opponents.

Charmeleon couldn't dodge in time, but Kirlia teleported them to safety. Meanwhile, Haunter silently emerged behind Arbok, catching it off guard.

"Ari—Arbok! Look out behind you!" Ariana yelled.

But it was too late. Haunter unleashed a Shadow Ball at point-blank range, slamming into Arbok and leaving it stunned.

Without hesitation, Haunter licked Arbok's face with its ethereal tongue, inflicting paralysis.

"Now's our chance!" Kai shouted. "Kirlia, use Magical Leaf! Charmeleon, Fire Fang!"

The synchronized attacks landed, and Arbok collapsed, unable to battle further.

"Excellent work!"

Kai turned to focus on the Murkrow next, but Archer's voice cut through the din. "Tyranitar, use Dark Pulse!"

Tyranitar opened its maw and unleashed a wave of dark energy accompanied by multiple shadowy orbs, targeting not just the Pokémon but also Kai and Erika!

The exeggutor managed to deflect part of the attack with Psychic, but the remaining force surged toward Erika.

"Watch out!"

Kai leapt forward, pushing Erika to the ground just as the blast struck. While they shared the brunt of the impact, they rolled together, landing a few meters away.

Kai felt his limbs burn from the bruises and scrapes, and his mask was knocked aside. Erika, pale but unharmed, looked up at him with gratitude.

"Thank you," she said softly.

Though her delicate form rested against him momentarily, Kai hurriedly said, "This isn't the time for that. Let's make sure it doesn't happen again!"

Erika nodded and quickly got up, resuming commands for her Pokémon to counterattack.

When Kai donned his mask again, Haunter had already defeated Ariana's Murkrow.

However, Archer's Tyranitar was proving a formidable foe, shrugging off several attacks. The situation worsened when Archer released a second Pokémon: a Magmortar, its body ablaze like a living fireball.

"Magmortar…" Kai murmured. The Fire-type posed a significant threat to Erika's Pokémon.

Noticing Kai's hand hovering near a special Poké Ball on his belt, Erika whispered, "If you've got a trump card, now's the time to use it. Don't hold back."

Kai hesitated, ready to release Zapdos, but the sound of shattering glass interrupted him.

A man with fiery red hair and a black cloak leapt through the broken window.

"I AM HERE"

"Looks like I arrived just in time!"

It was Lance.

Archer scowled. "Lance! So, even you decided to join this operation?"

Lance waved casually. "Come on, Archer. We've clashed plenty of times before don't act so surprised."

As he spoke, his Dragonite burst through the window and slammed into Tyranitar, pinning it against the far wall.

Kai relaxed slightly and asked, "Mr Lance, what's the status outside?"

Lance gave him an assuring nod. "The Interpol and SWAT teams have breached the base. They're sweeping through the floors as we speak. These guys won't hold out much longer."

Realizing the tide had turned, Archer and Ariana exchanged a quick glance before recalling their Pokémon. Without a word, they retreated through a concealed passage.

"They're escaping?"

Kai exhaled deeply, finally lowering his guard. Around him, the sounds of combat and chaos began to subside as the police secured the base.

Leaving Haunter and Kirlia at his side, Kai made his way out of the cafeteria. The corridors were now swarming with SWAT officers detaining or chasing down Team Rocket grunts.

Noticing familiar faces, Kai approached Nanu, Erika, Sabrina and Looker, who were regrouping with Agatha.

Looking at Lance, Kai asked, "What about the True Bird Unit?"

Before Lance could reply, Looker interjected, "They pulled back. Once they realized the SWAT team had entered the base, they retreated on their own."

Kai frowned. "So, we didn't catch them this time either?"

Looker sighed. "Yeah, it's their hideout, after all, full of traps and escape routes. Capturing them was always going to be a long shot."

As the group pushed deeper into the base, they secured the second and third underground levels without much resistance.

However, upon reaching the fourth basement level, they encountered an unexpected scene.

A man in a tailored suit sat calmly on a plush sofa in the centre of the expansive underground hall, his gaze fixed intently on the intruders.

"I've been expecting you."

----

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Chapter Text

-----

"Giov... Giovanni?!"

Everyone froze in shock, immediately tensing and assuming defensive postures.

"What's going on?" Kai whispered to Looker. "Why is he here? Didn't you confirm that he was still at the Viridian Gym? And didn't you already send Bruno and Lorelei to deal with him?"

Looker hesitated before responding. "I don't know either. Giovanni's movements have always been erratic. Maybe Bruno and Lorelei missed him! But since he's shown up here, this saves us the trouble we can capture him directly!"

Behind Giovanni stood four Team Rocket Executives: Archer, Ariana, Proton, and Petrel. Despite the tense situation, none of them showed any signs of panic.

Looker stepped forward, locking eyes with Giovanni. "Giovanni! You are charged with kidnapping, sabotage, and multiple acts of terrorism. Under international security law, I hereby place you under arrest!"

"Talk no Jutsu won't work on him," Kai murmured

Giovanni glanced at him, his voice calm and dismissive. "The exposure of this base was only a matter of time. I'm not surprised you found it. What does surprise me is your speed several years faster than I anticipated. It seems the Interpol aren't entirely incompetent."

"Enough talk!" Looker's tone grew firm. "The destruction of Team Rocket is inevitable! Surrender now, or do you still plan to resist?"

Giovanni slowly rose from the sofa. "Do you think taking one of my bases means you've won?"

"What do you mean?" Looker gestured to the others behind him. "We've mobilized so many people today. Even Lance and Agatha are here. Do you still think you can escape?"

Lance's expression was pained as he addressed Giovanni. "Mr Giovanni, I once thought you were an honourable man. But now, it seems I was gravely mistaken."

Agatha sighed deeply. "Giovanni, we've known each other for years, but I never imagined you'd be hiding such an identity."

"Humans are often deceived by appearances, failing to see the truth beneath the surface. How could you ever hope to understand the real me?" Giovanni's tone was as cold and unyielding as his demeanour.

"Enough of this nonsense!" Looker snapped. "Giovanni! The strongest Trainers and Pokémon in Kanto are here. If you're smart, you'll surrender now!"

"The strongest?" Giovanni sneered. "What a laughable notion. You fools have no idea what true power is. Allow me to show you what the strongest Pokémon looks like!"

As Giovanni spoke, a crimson glow illuminated the dark corridor behind him.

Out of the shadows emerged a humanoid Pokémon clad in sleek armour and wearing a helmet.

Its appearance was concealed by its armour, revealing only silver-white, feline-like legs and a long, thick purple tail. The Pokémon hovered effortlessly, its psychic power palpable in the air.

"What kind of Pokémon is that?!" gasped Lance and Agatha, both astonished despite their vast experience.

Kai, however, remained calm, his gaze steady. He knew exactly what this Pokémon was it was Mewtwo. At this point, it was still under Giovanni's control.

"Do you think one Pokémon is enough to stop us?" Looker declared, sending out his Toxicroak and Growlithe.

The two Pokémon immediately launched their attacks Toxicroak unleashed a volley of Poison Stings, while Growlithe fired a stream of flames.

However, before the attacks could land, Mewtwo raised its arm. Both the Poison Sting and Flamethrower halted mid-air, encased in shimmering blue light.

With a simple gesture, Mewtwo redirected the attacks, sending them hurtling back at the two Pokémon, slamming them into the wall.

Boom!

Both Toxicroak and Growlithe collapsed to the ground. The sheer power of Mewtwo's counterattack stunned everyone into silence.

Lance nodded to his Dragonite, while Agatha sent out her Gengar. The two Pokémon charged at Mewtwo from opposite directions.

Gengar hurled a Shadow Ball, while Dragonite lunged forward with its wings extended for a direct strike.

But just as their moves were about to connect, Mewtwo vanished in an instant, only to reappear behind them.

With a wave of its arms, both Dragonite and Gengar were caught in its psychic grip and slammed into the ground.

"Just as I expected," Looker muttered grimly. "Everyone, attack together!"

Gym Leaders Sabrina and Erika stepped forward, sending out their Pokémon. As Looker's Toxicroak and Growlithe recovered and rejoined the fray, the battle escalated.

Pokémon attacks flew in all directions, shaking the underground facility with their intensity.

Ghost Pokémon Haunter turned to Kai and hesitated. "Uh, shouldn't we jump in too?"

Kai hesitated, his expression thoughtful. Giovanni and his Executives showed no signs of concern.

They didn't attempt to flee or send out additional Pokémon. Their calmness suggested absolute confidence in Mewtwo's strength.

As Kai considered the situation, a voice echoed in his mind in a strange, neutral tone.

"You know my name?"

Startled, Kai looked around, realizing the voice was telepathic. It was Mewtwo speaking directly to him. Despite its fierce battle, Mewtwo seemed to focus on him.

"You truly know my name... Who are you?" Mewtwo's voice pressed deeper into Kai's thoughts.

Before Kai could respond, a sudden wave of psychic energy surged through him. Memories flooded his mind as if someone or something was rifling through his life.

"Kirlia!!!" Kai shouted urgently. His cry startled Sabrina, Erika, and Haunter nearby.

Without hesitation, Kai extended his hand toward Kirlia, who immediately teleported to his side.

The Psychic Pokémon wrapped its glowing hands around Kai's, amplifying his own psychic resistance.

----

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Chapter Text

----

The blue aura of Kirlia's psychic power enveloped Kai, shielding his mind and heart.

Thanks to Kirlia's intervention, Kai finally broke free from Mewtwo's telepathic intrusion. No longer hearing its voice in his head, he exhaled in relief.

However, as he glanced at Mewtwo again, his expression turned wary.

He couldn't shake the unease of not knowing how much of his thoughts and memories Mewtwo had glimpsed in that brief encounter.

On the battlefield, Mewtwo, who had been effortlessly overpowering all challengers, suddenly froze midair.

Its body remained suspended, motionless, except for its thick purple tail, which writhed in agitation as though reflecting its inner turmoil.

This unexpected shift caused Lance, Agatha, Looker, and the other officers to tense up, watching with uncertainty.

None of them dared to issue an attack command. Their Pokémon, exhausted and breathing heavily, paused as well, awaiting orders.

Giovanni narrowed his eyes as he observed Mewtwo's behaviour.

This wasn't the first time Mewtwo had reacted like this. Giovanni recalled a similar moment in the laboratory during its creation when Mewtwo had questioned its existence and purpose.

That moment of introspection had unleashed a devastating rage, reducing the entire island to ruins.

Now, seeing this behaviour again, Giovanni couldn't help but recall that inferno of destruction.

"What are you doing? Defeat them! You need to master your power otherwise, you'll bring only devastation to this world!"

Giovanni's commanding voice echoed through the hall, but Mewtwo showed no response.

Giovanni's expression darkened. Realizing the precarious situation, he exchanged a glance with his executives, Archer, Ariana, Proton, and Petrel before casually walking toward the elevator.

"Giovanni, where are you going?!" Looker shouted, his voice echoing in desperation.

Giovanni ignored him, producing a key card to activate the elevator. The doors opened slowly, revealing a shadowed interior.

"Stop him! Don't let him escape!" Looker Shouted, directing his Pokémon. "Toxicroak, Growlithe, block the elevator!"

But before the Pokémon could act, Mewtwo erupted in a burst of dazzling blue light.

The resulting shockwave blasted through the room, sending strong winds howling in all directions.

Everyone was knocked off their feet, shielding their eyes against the force. When the light dimmed, they saw Mewtwo levitating upwards looking towards Kai & crashing through several layers of the ceiling before vanishing into the night.

The remnants of Mewtwo's armour scattered across the floor, but its true form remained unseen.

"It's gone…" Lance murmured, gazing up at the gaping hole in the ceiling. "Why would it flee like that, abandoning its trainer?"

"Giovanni!" Looker snapped, turning back toward the elevator only to see the doors closing.

Giovanni's face, shadowed but resolute, was visible for a moment before disappearing from view.

"After him!" Looker shouted. Realizing the elevator couldn't be stopped, he and his team rushed toward the stairs in pursuit, but the odds of catching Giovanni seemed slim.

----

Later, Kai returned to Vermilion City, his body and mind weighed down by the events of the past few days.

Between battling Team Rocket and the encounter with Mewtwo, he was thoroughly exhausted.

Deciding to take a short break, he spent some time training his Pokémon at Vermilion Park.

"Charmeleon, use Flamethrower! Jolteon, dodge and counter with Thunder Fang!"

Reclining on a rocking chair, Kai issued commands to his Pokémon as they sparred.

Meanwhile, Chloe sat nearby, brushing Kirlia's hair with a wooden comb.

"You're way too laid back," she teased, watching his relaxed demeanour. "How are your Pokémon supposed to improve if you're barely paying attention?"

Kai chuckled. "They're training each other teamwork builds strength. Besides, it's not like I have other trainers around to help."

Chloe smirked. "Didn't you always say travelling was the best way to grow stronger? Why the sudden urge to rest?"

Stretching, Kai gazed at the sky. "Even trainers need to recharge. Taking a break now helps me prepare for whatever comes next."

"Oh, speaking of travelling," Chloe said, pulling out her phone, "you've got to see this!"

She showed Kai a video of a battle the footage from his clash with the giant Tentacruel at Vermilion Harbor.

Though blurry, the video had been filtered to emphasize the intensity of the battle, making it appear even more dramatic.

Kai leaned closer, watching intently. "This looks incredible! The Zapdos look amazing. What power! What precision!"

At his waist, the Poké Ball containing Zapdos quivered slightly, as if pleased by the praise.

Chloe nodded. "It's been going viral everyone in my class is obsessed with this video. They think the trainer's battle style is awesome, but…" She paused, stifling a laugh.

"But?" Kai asked, sensing trouble.

"They think the trainer's outfit is awful! That raincoat and mask combo? Yikes."

"…Awful?!" Kai groaned, slumping in his chair. "It's not awful it's mysterious! The cloak and Gengar mask give off a sense of intrigue!"

Chloe laughed harder. "Sure, if 'mystery' means looking like a walking disaster."

----

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Chapter Text

---

Chloe was about to speak, but Kai's phone suddenly rang. She chose to remain silent, squatting on the ground with her chin resting on her hands, smiling at him as she waited for him to finish the call.

Kai glanced at the screen it was Sabrina calling.

"Hello?" he answered, skipping pleasantries and getting straight to the point. "How did it go?"

On the other end, Sabrina's voice remained cold and direct. "I've handed the Silph Scope to Mr. Silph. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for retrieving it from Team Rocket."

Kai had expected more. When Sabrina paused, he couldn't help but raise an eyebrow and ask, "Huh? That's it?"

Sabrina chuckled faintly. "What's wrong? Disappointed?"

"Of course," Kai admitted without hesitation. "Considering I got it back from Team Rocket, I thought he might reward me with another Master Ball."

"Another Master Ball?" Sabrina laughed softly. "Do you think Master Balls are as common as the Poké Balls sold in every Poké Mart?"

"I know they're rare," Kai replied, "but Humans are greedy creatures. We always fantasize about getting things we can't have."

Whether Kai's words amused her or not, Sabrina fell silent for a moment. Then, with a hint of mischief in her tone, she said, "All right, I won't tease you anymore. Actually, Mr. Silph knows you're planning to continue your journey, so he had the Silph Scope modified to attach to your mask."

"Mask? What mask?" Chloe's ears perked up at the mention, her curiosity piqued.

"Wait, he gave me the Silph Scope?" Kai exclaimed, lowering his voice when he noticed Chloe eavesdropping. Turning away slightly, he muttered, "Ahem… Well, thanks to you and Mr. Silph. I'll leave it with you for now. I'll pick it up when I swing by Saffron City."

----

That afternoon, Kai returned to the Cerise Laboratory, but he didn't remain idle. Instead, he assisted Professor Cerise and his team with their research.

In addition to Professor Cerise, Renji and Chrysa taught him a lot, including how to write observation notes, use basic equipment, and analyze data. They truly treated him as a part of their team.

Taking advantage of this, Kai studied diligently, asking questions and soaking up every bit of Pokémon-related knowledge he could.

---

Before long, Monday arrived. As Chloe returned to school, Kai set off on a new journey, this time heading toward Fuchsia City, home to the Fuchsia Gym.

The direct distance between Fuchsia City and Vermilion City wasn't far, but with a sea separating them, Kai had only two options.

The first was a long, overland route heading east from Vermilion City, through dense mountains, and then south along the coast.

However, this route was time-consuming and exhausting, covering over ten times the direct distance.

The second option was to take a cruise and cross the sea directly.

But Kai decided to try something new.

"Come out, Gyarados!"

As the Poké Ball opened, the sea rippled, and a massive Gyarados emerged, its dragon-like head towering over the waves.

Kai leapt onto its back, landing firmly. Ever since arriving in this world, he had dreamed of travelling across the sea on a Water-type Pokémon. This was the perfect chance to fulfil that wish.

With a joyful cheer, Kai pointed in the direction of Fuchsia City, and Gyarados swam rapidly across the shimmering sea.

The endless expanse of blue, the bright sky, and the occasional Pokémon leaping from the water made the journey exhilarating. Even the salty sea breeze felt refreshing.

However, as time passed, even the most beautiful scenery grew monotonous. Just as Kai was beginning to feel bored, a sudden strong wind snapped him to attention.

In the distance, he spotted a violent storm rolling toward him.

"Seriously? Why do I always run into storms at sea?" Kai muttered, sighing. He quickly instructed Gyarados to change course, but the storm moved too fast, overtaking them within minutes.

The fierce wind stung his eyes, and the torrential rain drenched him instantly. As he considered switching to Zapdos to escape by air, massive waves began battering them.

No matter how strong, both humans and Pokémon were helpless against the raw power of nature.

Gyarados struggled to stay afloat, its massive body tossed about by the waves. Kai clung to its neck with one hand while reaching for an Great Ball on his belt with the other.

Before he could act, several Pokémon appeared in the sky, their round, yellow bodies unmistakable even in the storm Dragonite!

The Dragonite seemed unaffected by the raging winds, their presence glowing against the stormy backdrop.

One of them swooped down and, without a word, grabbed Kai in its claws.

"Wha—? Wait, what's going on?" Kai exclaimed, hurriedly recalling Gyarados to its Poké Ball. Despite his confusion, he sensed no malice from the Dragonite and allowed them to carry him away.

The Dragonite flew steadily, cutting through the storm. Eventually, they emerged into calm skies, revealing a breathtaking sight below a lush, green island surrounded by a ring of storm clouds.

Kai's eyes widened in recognition. "Could this be… Dragonite Island?"

When the Dragonite landed, Kai stepped onto the soft sand and looked around. The Dragonites surrounded him, their expressions brimming with pride as if waiting for his approval.

Their expectant gazes reminded Kai of children eager for praise after doing a good deed.

"Uh… okay," he muttered, coughing lightly before giving them a nod. "Thanks for rescuing me from the storm… even though I didn't need it."

---

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Chapter Text

---

Being brought to the island by Dragonite wasn't entirely unexpected. After all, whether it was Ash and Goh during their journeys or other stranded sailors, Dragonites have always been known to rescue those in need.

"Drooo-gah!"( Our new member )

Hearing Kai's thanks, the Dragonites around him squinted their eyes and let out cheerful cries.

Dragonites are naturally kind-hearted Pokémon. When they find ships in distress, they guide them to safety.

Known for their immense strength and speed, it's said that Dragonite can circle the globe in just 16 hours, making them one of the fastest-flying Pokémon in the world.

As Kai appeared unharmed, the Dragonites gradually dispersed. They left him alone on the island, showing no signs of monitoring his actions.

Their lack of concern about him potentially causing trouble was a testament to their trusting nature.

Kai shook his head in mild exasperation.

"With a temperament like this, it's no wonder their habitats are dwindling, and wild Dragonite sightings are so rare nowadays," he muttered. "It's almost impossible to find Dragonite living in the wild anymore."

Looking deeper into the island, Kai noticed that besides the Dragonite, the forest was also home to many of their pre-evolved forms: Dratini and Dragonair.

These Pokémon roamed freely, foraging for berries and enjoying a carefree life.

Pulling out his phone, Kai wasn't surprised to find there was no signal. He snapped a few photos of the idyllic scene for his collection, shook off the raindrops still clinging to him, and headed toward the heart of the island.

As he walked, Haunter emerged from his shadow, intrigued by the sight of Dratini and Dragonair around them.

"Dratini and Dragonair are so sleek and elegant," Haunter commented, "but why do they turn chubby and orange after evolving into Dragonite?"

Kai chuckled. "It's not that strange. This world doesn't always follow logic. To be honest, I think Milotic looks more like it could be the final evolution of Dratini and Dragonair."

Haunter's eyes widened. "Oh? What makes you say that?"

"It's not just about their appearance or size," Kai explained. "Have you heard of the Marvel Scale ability?"

Haunter shook his head. "Nope, what's that?"

Kai smiled knowingly. "Pokémon with the Marvel Scale ability gain increased defence when affected by a status condition. It's an extremely rare trait. Across all Pokémon, only Dratini, Dragonair, and Milotic have this ability. Doesn't that suggest a connection between them?"

Haunter grinned. "Interesting theory! I can see it now."

With that, Kai continued exploring, eventually finding himself at the base of a waterfall. The cascading river formed a crystal-clear lake below, surrounded by smooth rocks.

Many Dratini had gathered there, playing, resting, and chasing one another. It appeared to be their nesting area.

Seeing Kai and Haunter, the Dratini approached curiously. Although naturally shy, they seemed bolder when gathered in such numbers in their familiar territory.

Kai grinned. "Alright, everyone, come out and join the fun!"

He released his Pokémon from their Poké Balls, including Zapdos. The sight of such unique Pokémon excited the Dratini, who began circling them in delight. Kai's Pokémon, equally playful, joined in on the games.

Amid the cheerful chaos, Kai noticed a lone Dratini curled up in the corner. It looked on with a mix of envy and apprehension, its eyes betraying its hesitation.

Haunter noticed as well. "Why is that Dratini sitting there by itself? Do you think it's being excluded by the others?"

Kai frowned. "It doesn't look like it's being excluded. It seems… afraid of me."

He approached cautiously, but as he drew near, the Dratini retreated further. Sighing, Kai decided not to push it and stepped back.

The sound of footsteps caught his attention, and several Dragonites approached from the distance. They nodded in approval at the sight of the playful Dratini and even cast friendly glances toward Kai.

"Haunter," Kai said, "can you ask them what's going on with that Dratini?"

Haunter floated over to speak with the Dragonite. After a brief exchange, it returned to Kai with a sombre expression.

"Turns out it's a sad story," Haunter said. "That Dratini's mother left the island a while ago and never returned. Since then, it's become withdrawn and refuses to interact with the others or leave the nest."

Kai's heart sank. "Did something happen to its mother?"

"Not exactly," Haunter replied. "Apparently, its mother ran off with a trainer's Dragonite to get some milk. One of the Dragonites here spotted her a few months ago, and she seemed to be living a happy life."

Kai blinked in disbelief. "She… abandoned her child to elope with someone else's Dragonite? That's... not what I expected."

He glanced back at the solitary Dratini, his heart aching. Despite knowing its mother was alive, the Dratini's situation seemed even more pitiful.

Kai reached into his bag and pulled out a can of Pokémon food. Walking carefully toward the Dratini, he opened the lid, letting the delicious aroma waft through the air.

"Hey, don't be afraid. This food's really tasty. Give it a try," Kai said gently.

The Dratini sniffed the air, and its stomach growled audibly. Hesitating for a moment, it crept closer, snatched the can, and darted back to its corner to eat.

Kai smiled softly. "I don't know how to comfort you, little one. But life is unpredictable. At least your mother is happy now, even if she isn't here with you. That has to count for something, right?"

---

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Chapter Text

---

The Dratini was so absorbed in eating that it hardly seemed to notice the words around it.

In truth, a long time had passed since its mother left. Although it still thought of her occasionally, the trauma was slowly healing, and it was no longer as heartbroken as it had been at the start.

After licking the can clean, it looked at Kai with an eager expression.

Seeing this, Kai quickly pulled out a second can and handed it over.

"Here, eat as much as you want."

This time, the Dratini seemed a little bolder. It cautiously approached Kai, took the can, and started eating again.

Kai couldn't help but feel amazed as he watched it finish the second can as effortlessly as the first.

"For such a small body, it sure has a huge appetite," he mused. "It probably eats as much as two Wartortle combined!"

At that moment, Haunter glanced at the sky and remarked, "It's getting late. We've been here for too long. Shouldn't we leave?"

Kai nodded, called his Pokémon together, and prepared to ride away on Zapdos. But as he started to leave, the Dratini stared at him for a long time and then hurriedly followed, letting out a series of soft cries.

"Huh?" Haunter said curiously. "It looks like it wants to come with us!"

"Come with us?" Kai was pleasantly surprised.

As the pre-evolution of Dragonite, one of the rarest and most powerful Dragon-type Pokémon, Dratini was incredibly special.

Before arriving on this island, Kai had always dreamed of catching a Dragonite. But after seeing how peacefully the Dragonite family lived here, he hadn't wanted to disturb their tranquillity. The idea of taming one had left his mind entirely.

Yet now, here was a little Dratini, wanting to leave with him of its own accord.

"Hey, Haunter," Kai said with a grin, "do you think it's following me just because it wants more canned food?"

"You might be onto something," Haunter replied, rolling its eyes. "It's probably sick of eating berries all the time. Your backpack must look like a bottomless pit of delicious meals. As long as it sticks with you, it'll get to feast on new flavours every day!"

"Mother left for milk; it is leaving the island for canned food", Kai chuckled. Regardless of the reason, he was thrilled to have the chance to bond with such a rare Pokémon so easily.

He glanced at the nearby Dragonite, who seemed to show no objections if anything, they appeared relieved.

"Dooor-grahhh!" ( We Approve )

Taking that as approval, Kai squatted down and pulled an empty Poké Ball from his bag.

"Are you sure about this?" he asked the Dratini seriously. "If you come with me, it might be a long, long time before you return here."

But the Dratini, entirely focused on the Poké Ball, seemed to think it was something edible.

It moved forward and tapped its nose against the button. In a flash of red light, it was drawn into the Poké Ball.

The ball shook briefly, then clicked shut.

Kai sighed with a smile. "What a little foodie," he muttered.

Still, he couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. After so much travelling, he had finally caught his eighth Pokémon.

---

Riding on Zapdos, Kai soared through the air, passing through the circular storm surrounding Dragonite Island and leaving it behind.

When his phone signal returned, he checked his position and set a course for Fuchsia City.

The high-altitude winds were freezing and nearly took his breath away. To ease the strain, he patted Zapdos on the back, signalling it to descend.

As they flew lower, the air became more bearable, and the sea beneath them sparkled in the sunlight.

After travelling a considerable distance, Kai decided to avoid detection by switching to Gyarados and continuing the journey across the water.

Riding the massive sea Pokémon, he eventually reached the shoreline.

Fuchsia City, with its pinkish hue and serene beauty, lay ahead. Known as a key city in the southwestern Kanto region, its most famous attractions included the Fuchsia Gym and the Safari Zone, a vast nature reserve where trainers could catch Pokémon for a small fee.

In the Safari Zone, visitors were given 30 Safari Balls and could catch Pokémon without battling.

This opportunity drew countless people, especially those hoping to capture their very first Pokémon.

However, Kai had no interest in the Safari Zone. He already had a strong team and no targets left in this area.

After a brief glance at the reserve, he moved on, heading straight for Fuchsia Gym.

Fuchsia City's urban area, filled with high-rise buildings, gave way to rugged mountain roads as Kai followed his map to the gym.

Unlike other gyms located within city limits, Fuchsia Gym was hidden deep in the mountains, a tradition tied to its leader's ninja heritage.

The journey was exhausting. Kai crossed streams, climbed slopes, and even balanced on narrow bridges. In the dense forest, wild Pokémon peeked out curiously from behind the trees.

Seeing Kai struggle with the terrain, Haunter offered, "Want me to give you a lift with Psychic or something?"

Kai shook his head. "No, thanks. As tiring as this is, it's good exercise."

Haunter frowned. "I don't get it. Why build a gym so far out? It's supposed to be a place where trainers can battle for badges, but just getting here feels like a test in itself. By the time we arrive, I'll bet half the challengers are too exhausted to fight!"

Kai adjusted his backpack and replied, "The Fuchsia Gym Leader, Koga, is not only a master of Poison-type Pokémon but also a ninja. His family has a long history of practising in secret, so they value this isolation. Reaching the gym is part of the challenge."

After another ten minutes of hiking, they finally reached a high ridge. From there, Kai could see a sprawling, elegant compound nestled on the other side of a cliff.

The simple yet sophisticated design of the gym stood out. All the buildings were connected by long, narrow corridors, forming a seamless structure that blended perfectly with the surrounding nature.

Kai exhaled in relief. "Finally," he muttered. "Let's see if this ninja gym lives up to its reputation."

---

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Chapter Text

---

Crossing the long suspension bridge, Kai walked up to the closed main entrance of the Fuchsia Gym.

He was about to use the door knocker when, without warning, the two wooden doors swung open on their own!

Looking into the courtyard, Kai saw no one behind the doors neither staff to greet him nor any Pokémon present.

Was some sort of mechanism triggered?

"Excuse me, is anyone here?" Kai called out loudly.

His voice echoed through the courtyard, but after waiting a long time, there was still no response.

The area was eerily silent, almost oppressive, as though the air itself was thick with tension and hidden danger.

"Hmm, mysterious. Is this really a ninja's domain?" Haunter murmured, intrigued.

Known for its mischievous and playful nature, Haunter thrived in spooky, unconventional places like haunted houses or ancient cemeteries.

"Maybe this is a test," Kai thought aloud.

Without further hesitation, he stepped into the gym. Following a gravel path, he soon reached the entrance of the main building.

However, just as he stepped onto the floor, the Fuchsia Gym delivered its first surprise!

The ground beneath him abruptly shifted, the floor tilting steeply to create a smooth, slippery incline.

Kai, anticipating traps, reacted swiftly, grabbing hold of a nearby pillar to steady himself.

He glanced down to see that beneath the rotating floor lay a worn and uneven stone surface, likely weathered from years of careless trainers falling prey to this trap.

To ensure his safety, Kai released Kirlia from her Poké Ball. Her Psychic abilities would help her handle any unexpected hazards.

Regaining his composure, Kai entered the main hallway again.

Past a screen adorned with bamboo, he found himself in a dimly lit corridor. At the end of the corridor were two branching paths one to the left and one to the right.

Both paths seemed ordinary, but in this mysterious ninja gym, traps were likely waiting at every turn. Kai knew he had to tread carefully.

After a brief deliberation, he decided to follow his instincts and chose the left path.

The wooden floor creaked beneath his steps, and after only a dozen steps, the ground suddenly gave way! A hidden pit opened beneath him!

Fortunately, Kirlia's Psychic abilities enveloped Kai in a protective aura, gently lifting him to safety on solid ground.

"Nice work, Kirlia!" Kai praised, patting her head affectionately.

Peering into the pit, he saw nothing sharp or deadly just smooth walls and a deep drop that would make climbing out impossible for anyone who fell.

So, this is meant to teach careless trainers a lesson, Kai mused, appreciating the thoughtfulness behind the trap's design.

He pressed onward. The once-flat floor began to slope upward slightly. Sensing something amiss, Kai gestured to Haunter to scout ahead.

Before Haunter could move, a sound echoed down the corridor a faint click, followed by a mechanical rumble.

The ceiling above cracked open, and a massive boulder, perfectly sized to the width of the corridor, came crashing down!

The enormous rock, gathering speed as it rolled downhill, barreled straight toward Kai.

"Kirlia!" Kai shouted.

Kirlia quickly used Psychic to stop the boulder's momentum. With her assistance, Kai retreated to safety behind the earlier pit.

As Kirlia released her hold, the boulder fell into the pit with a heavy thud.

If someone else had faced this, without superpowers or a powerful Pokémon, this trap could have crushed them entirely!

"This trap feels… a bit too dangerous," Kai muttered under his breath.

Before he could relax, the faint sound of footsteps echoed again this time retreating quickly down the corridor.

"Haunter, follow them!" Kai ordered.

Haunter phased through the wall, his eerie laughter echoing from the other side. Moments later, a piercing scream split the air.

"Ahhh!"

Suddenly, the wall in front of Kai flipped around, and a girl stumbled out, nearly falling.

She wore a traditional ninja jumpsuit in black, complemented by a pink-and-red cape. Her purple hair was tied in an enormous ponytail.

The girl coughed awkwardly, clearly flustered. "Well, it seems my training still needs some work if you found me so easily."

Kai raised an eyebrow, unfamiliar with her. "Sorry for entering the gym unannounced. I'm here to challenge the Gym Leader, Koga. Is he here?"

The girl crossed her arms and smirked. "If you want to challenge my father, you'll have to get past me first!"

"Father? So…"

"That's right! My name is Janine, and I'm Koga's daughter," she said, sizing Kai up. "Follow me. I'll take you to the battlefield."

Janine led Kai through several more traps before they reached a simple battlefield inside a spacious room.

The arena's floor was made entirely of wood, an odd choice given how easily Fire, Ground, or Rock-type moves could destroy it.

Kai stood on one side of the field, with Janine opposite him. She gestured to a door behind her.

"Defeat me, and you can pass through that door," she said, her tone serious.

"Understood," Kai replied calmly. "What are the battle rules?"

"One-on-one. The first Pokémon to faint loses," Janine declared, tossing out a Poké Ball. "Let's go, Crobat!"

A purple, bat-like Pokémon with two pairs of wings appeared, flapping energetically.

Kai turned to Haunter. "You've never fought a Gym battle before. Want to give it a try?"

Haunter grinned mischievously, floating onto the battlefield.

---

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Chapter Text

---

"Forget it." Haunter lost interest, shaking his head. "Too weak. It's not worth my time."

"Too weak?!" Janine, clearly offended, raised her voice. "Did you just call me weak, you talking Pokémon?! Don't underestimate us! Do you dare to battle my Pokémon and back up those words?"

Haunter was entirely unfazed. Sticking out his long tongue, he teased her. "Blehhh! Nope, I'm not battling. What are you gonna do about it?"

Janine's face turned red with frustration, and her temper flared. Seeing this, Kai quickly stepped in to diffuse the tension.

"Apologies! Haunter has a... unique personality. Please don't take it personally, Miss Janine."

Kai glanced at Janine's Crobat, whose fierce expression showed it was ready for battle. Thinking for a moment, he reached for a Poké Ball.

"Alright, Haunter doesn't want to participate, so I'll send in Jolteon!" He tossed the Poké Ball, and Jolteon materialized in a flash of light, its spiky fur crackling with electricity.

Janine raised an eyebrow. "Jolteon, huh? Interesting choice. But no matter who you send out, my Crobat will show you just how strong we are!"

Both Pokémon stood ready, their eyes locked as the battle began. Janine wasted no time. "Crobat, Air Slash!"

Crobat flapped its powerful wings, sending sharp blades of compressed air hurtling toward Jolteon.

"Jolteon, dodge it!" Kai commanded.

Using its exceptional speed, Jolteon easily evaded the attack and countered with Pin Missile, launching a barrage of glowing needles toward Crobat. However, Crobat deftly weaved through the assault, its agility matching Jolteon's speed.

Realizing ranged attacks wouldn't work, Janine shifted her strategy. "Crobat, use Cross Poison!"

Crobat swooped down with claws glowing a toxic purple, aiming for a direct strike. Kai made a quick decision.

"Jolteon, meet it with Thunder Shock!"

As Crobat closed in, Jolteon discharged a bolt of electricity, striking Crobat mid-attack.

The impact slowed Crobat, but it pushed through and landed its poisonous claws on Jolteon.

Both Pokémon took significant damage, but Crobat, being part Flying-type, suffered more from the electric attack.

Janine pressed on. "Crobat, Poison Fang!"

Kai responded in kind. "Jolteon, counter with Thunder Fang!"

The two Pokémon lunged at each other, their fangs glowing Crobat's with venom and Jolteon's with electricity.

They collided in a fierce clash, biting and clawing in a raw display of power. Both sustained injuries, but soon the aftermath of their attacks became clear.

Jolteon was poisoned, its body turning faintly green as the venom took hold.

Meanwhile, Crobat was paralyzed, electricity coursing through its body and leaving it unable to move.

Kai seized the opportunity. "Jolteon, finish this with Discharge!"

Electricity surged through Jolteon's body, building up until it erupted in a blinding flash. Crobat took the full force of the attack and collapsed, unable to continue.

Janine sighed, returning Crobat to its Poké Ball. "I lost..." She gave a small, rueful smile. "Looks like I underestimated you."

Kai smiled politely, walking over to Jolteon with an antidote in hand. "Great job out there, Jolteon." He patted its head, administering the antidote. "You fought well. Rest now." Returning Jolteon to its Poké Ball, he turned back to Janine.

Janine stepped aside, gesturing to a door behind her. "As I said, if you defeat me, you can proceed. My father, Koga, awaits further inside. Good luck."

Before Kai could respond, Janine disappeared into the shadows with the agility of a true ninja.

"Why does every gym have to be so complicated?" Kai muttered, shaking his head. He turned to Haunter and Kirlia. "Come on, let's go."

The group moved through the wooden door into a dimly lit staircase. Ascending to the second floor, they found themselves in a bright corridor with sunlight streaming in through transom windows.

Haunter hovered beside Kai. "It looks safe, but in a ninja's lair, you can never be too sure. Watch your step."

Kai advanced cautiously, but after several uneventful steps, his hand suddenly pressed against an invisible barrier.

Startled, he examined the obstruction and found it to be a thick, transparent glass wall reflecting faint white light in the sunlight.

Haunter effortlessly phased through the glass. "Need me to break it?"

Kai shook his head. "No need." He turned back toward the stairs but found another glass wall blocking the way. Both exits were sealed.

A memory surfaced. Kai recalled seeing Ash face this exact trap during his challenge at the Fuchsia Gym.

Smirking, he walked to the side of the corridor where the wooden walls and transom windows were located.

Raising his leg, he aimed for the wall and kicked it hard. Bam!

---

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Chapter Text

----

Under Kai's strength, the wooden wall was kicked open like a door panel on a hinge.

In the next instant, the entire wooden wall collapsed outward, revealing a sheer cliff behind it.

And more than ten meters below the cliff was a bottomless, rushing river!

It was clear that if a trainer got trapped in the corridor and attempted to escape through the transom, this unexpected trap would likely send them plunging into the torrential waters below.

Haunter tilted its head curiously. "Huh? How did you know there was a mechanism here?"

Kai smirked. "Because there was a very valuable lesson learned by someone else before me!"

With that, Kai turned and approached another wall. With a firm push, the trapdoor mechanism activated, rotating the wall to reveal an indoor battlefield.

Kai stepped through the opening, but as soon as he set foot inside, a flurry of ninja darts flew toward him with incredible speed.

The darts roared past him, a few whizzing so close that they brushed his ears, the wind from their speed ruffling his hair.

Thud! Thud! Thud!

When the commotion settled, Kai glanced back to find the ninja darts embedded into the trapdoor in the shape of a perfect humanoid outline.

The dart thrower clearly had exceptional aim.

From above, a woman descended gracefully and landed in front of him. She had long green hair tied in a ponytail, wore a revealing pink ninja uniform, and radiated an air of confidence.

"Born in darkness, living in shadows this is the fate of a ninja," she said in a sultry voice. "I am Aya, the kunoichi! Prepare yourself!"

Despite her dangerous aura, Kai couldn't help but think she exuded a certain flirtatiousness. Her beauty was striking, but her outfit seemed impractical for stealth missions.

Perhaps she was the type of ninja who relied on charm to disarm her enemies?

"It's impressive that you defeated Janine and made it through the traps to get here," Aya said, clapping her hands. "And to remain so calm under my ninja darts? You're quite extraordinary!"

Kai remained stoic. 'Should I tell her that I didn't even flinch because I couldn't process what happened in time?'

"After all that effort, I thought I'd finally meet the Gym Leader," Kai remarked dryly.

Aya chuckled. "If you want to face my brother, you'll have to defeat me first. However, since you just battled Janine, your available Pokémon are now limited to two!"

With a whistle, Aya summoned a Pokémon to her side. A fluffy, insect-like creature with compound eyes resembling a fly landed before her.

Kai quickly assessed his options. He tapped a Poké Ball at his belt, releasing a Pokémon with a favourable matchup.

"Go, Charmeleon!"

In a flash of blue light, Charmeleon appeared on the battlefield. It roared confidently, flames flickering on its tail as it sized up its opponent.

The battlefield mirrored the one where Kai had faced Janine earlier. Kai briefly wondered if he had somehow returned to the same room.

Once both sides were ready, Kai wasted no time issuing a command. "Charmeleon, use Flamethrower!"

"Charrrrrr!"

Charmeleon inhaled deeply, its chest swelling, and unleashed a torrent of flames toward Venonat.

Venonat had no chance to dodge. The flames engulfed it, and the super-effective hit made it stagger.

Aya reacted swiftly. "Venonat, use Disable!"

Venonat emitted strange waves of light that enveloped Charmeleon. The effect was immediate the Flamethrower move was sealed temporarily.

"Now, Venonat, use Stun Spore!" Aya commanded.

Venonat released a cloud of yellow spores toward Charmeleon. Kai commanded. "Charmeleon, use Smokescreen!"

Thick black smoke billowed out, mingling with the spores, but Venonat's compound eyes easily cut through the obscurity.

"Venonat, Leech Life!" Aya ordered.

Venonat darted into the smoke, sinking its fangs into Charmeleon. Kai couldn't see through the smoke but called out, "Charmeleon, Dragon Rage!"

Even blinded, Charmeleon retaliated with a shock wave that blasted Venonat out of the smoke and onto the floor outside.

The smoke dissipated, revealing both Pokémon Venonat struggling to stand and Charmeleon visibly slower due to the paralysis.

"Charmeleon, finish it with Fire Fang!" Kai commanded.

Charmeleon's fangs ignited as it charged forward, but the paralysis took effect, halting its movement mid-step.

Aya seized the moment. "Venonat, use Confusion!"

Psychic energy shot from Venonat's antennae, forcing Kai to think quickly. "Charmeleon, counter with Dragon Rage!"

The two attacks clashed, briefly holding the battle in balance.

Aya smirked. "Venonat, Leech Life again!"

As Venonat charged forward, Kai's eyes glinted. "Charmeleon, use Flamethrower!"

Aya's eyes widened. "What? Flamethrower!?"

Charmeleon, free from Disable's effect, unleashed another blazing inferno that consumed Venonat. The Bug Pokémon collapsed, unable to continue.

Aya sighed, recalling her Pokémon. "You caught me off guard, I'll admit. I got so caught up in the battle I forgot Disable's duration was limited."

Kai smirked. "Miss Aya, that's where you made a mistake."

----

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Chapter Text

---

"Thank you, For the Battle"

However, from her expression, it was clear that she was not reconciled to her defeat.

At that moment, a smoke bomb suddenly exploded on the battlefield. As thick smoke filled the area, a figure emerged from the dissipating haze, standing beside Aya.

This man appeared to be in his forties, with spiky blue-black hair, wearing a black ninja uniform and a red cape. His serious demeanour immediately commanded attention.

"Brother!"

Seeing the man, Aya quickly half-knelt on the ground.

Koga spoke calmly, "Aya, you and your Venonat still have a long way to go."

Hearing his words, Aya looked ashamed. "I was too careless earlier. If I hadn't misjudged the timing of my Disable move, I could have—"

"Enough," Koga interrupted. "A loss is a loss. No excuses." He then turned his gaze to Kai. "That was an impressive battle. I am Koga, the Gym Leader of the Fuchsia City Gym."

Kai nodded. "It's an honour to meet you, Mr Koga. My name is Kai, and I'm here to challenge you!"

Aya and Janine, stepped aside, leaving the battlefield to Kai and Koga.

Facing Koga, Kai didn't dare to underestimate him. After all, Koga was once promoted to the position of Elite Four in the Kanto and Johto regions, specializing in Poison-type Pokémon.

Even though this was a standard Gym battle and Koga likely wouldn't use his ace Pokémon, his other Pokémon would still be formidable.

Koga declared, "The rules remain the same: defeat one of my Pokémon to win the challenge. However, since you've already defeated both Aya and Janine, you may now use three Pokémon against mine."

'Three against one?' Kai nodded in understanding and stepped into position. Koga waved his hand, sending out a Poké Ball.

When the blue light dissipated, an overpowering stench filled the air, making Kai recoil instinctively.

'Ugh! That smell! Could it be another Skuntank?' As Kai's eyes adjusted, he saw the culprit—a Muk.

Pinching his nose, Kai thought quickly. This was a rare opportunity to battle a high-level trainer, and with three Pokémon at his disposal, he planned to let each gain valuable experience.

"Let's go, Jolteon!"

Kai released his Jolteon, who had already fought against Janine earlier. Despite its injuries, it stood ready for another battle.

The match began. At first, Jolteon's agility and Thunderbolt attacks put Muk on the defensive.

However, as Jolteon's stamina waned, Muk managed to seize an opportunity to land a powerful Sludge Bomb, knocking Jolteon out.

Kai smiled, recalling Jolteon. "You did great. Rest now."

Next, he sent out his Charmeleon. "Charmeleon, your turn!"

Koga's eyes gleamed with approval as he observed Kai's strategy. "He's not just battling to win; he's using this match to train his Pokémon. Very clever."

Kai grinned sheepishly. "Mr. Koga, your Pokémon are incredibly strong. This is a rare opportunity to learn from a master like you."

Charmeleon charged in with Ember and Dragon Breath, managing to deal significant damage to Muk. However, Muk's resilience and a well-timed Gunk Shot proved too much, and Charmeleon eventually succumbed to its injuries.

Recalling Charmeleon, Kai prepared for his final Pokémon. This time, he was serious.

---

"Let's finish this! Wartortle, I choose you!"

As the Water-type Pokémon appeared, it turned to Kai with a determined expression, ready to battle.

"Wartortle! Wartortle!"

Despite the type neutrality, Muk's stamina was clearly waning after its battles with Jolteon and Charmeleon. Kai knew this was his chance to turn the tide.

"Wartortle, start with Water Gun!"

A powerful jet of water burst from Wartortle's mouth, striking Muk directly. Muk endured the hit and retaliated with a Mud Bomb.

"Dodge it, Wartortle!"

Wartortle leapt aside, narrowly avoiding the mud attack, but Koga wasn't letting up.

"Muk, use Body Slam!"

Muk launched itself into the air and slammed its body down onto Wartortle, pinning it to the ground.

Wartortle gritted its teeth, struggling against Muk's overwhelming weight.

Off to the side, Aya smirked. Muk had defeated Kai's first two Pokémon, and now Wartortle seemed helpless.

But her confidence was short-lived.

"Wartortle, use Rapid Spin to break free!"

The shell on Wartortle's back began to spin rapidly. The force of the rotation dislodged Muk, sending it flying backwards.

As Muk struggled to regain its balance, Kai saw an opportunity.

"Great timing! Use Aqua Tail!"

Wartortle's tail shimmered with water as it leapt forward to strike Muk. However, just as Wartortle was about to land the attack, its body began to glow brightly.

"What's happening?" Aya gasped.

Kai's eyes widened. "It's evolving!"

In a brilliant flash of light, Wartortle's form began to change. Its shell grew larger and more ornate, its limbs and tail became stronger, and when the glow subsided, Blastoise stood proudly in its place.

"Blastoise!!!!"

Koga's eyes narrowed with a hint of approval. "A mid-battle evolution? Impressive. But let's see if it can handle this Muk, use Gunk Shot!"

Muk launched a glob of toxic sludge straight at Blastoise.

"Blastoise, counter with water gun!"

The newly evolved Blastoise unleashed a torrent of water from its cannons, blasting through the sludge and striking Muk head-on.

---

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Chapter Text

---

After being struck by such a powerful Water-type attack, Muk was slammed hard onto the floor with a resounding thud.

The impact was so strong that it cracked the floor, leaving visible fractures!

Koga shouted, "Muk, use Poison Gas!"

Muk struggled to rise, shaking its dizzy head. A green, noxious gas spewed from its mouth, quickly enveloping Blastoise.

Kai shouted, "Rapid Spin!"

Hearing Kai's command, Blastoise retracted its limbs into its shell and began spinning at high speed.

The rapidly rotating shell generated a whirlwind so strong it completely dispersed the poisonous gas!

"Impressive counter!" Koga couldn't help but praise his opponent, despite being in battle.

But Blastoise wasn't done yet. It launched itself into the air and came crashing down onto Muk with tremendous force.

Seeing this, Koga quickly shouted, "Block it!"

Muk extended its arms, attempting to grab Blastoise. A flash of light coursed through Muk's body, and its once-soft form hardened like cement.

The two Pokémon collided with a loud crash. Muk let out a low growl; while it managed to catch Blastoise, the impact still inflicted damage.

After battling three Pokémon in succession, Muk's strength was waning, its stamina nearly depleted.

Yet Koga refused to surrender.

"Muk, use Mud Bomb!"

Muk unleashed a large blob of mud, spraying it directly into Blastoise's shell openings.

The attack rendered Blastoise's defensive spinning ineffective. Unable to maintain its composure, Blastoise emerged from its shell, its face slowly turning green from poison.

Unfortunately for Koga, the battle was nearing its conclusion. At Kai's command, Blastoise fired a powerful Hydro Pump, sending a thick torrent of water at Muk and knocking it out.

As Muk collapsed to the ground, Aya, acting as the referee, raised her hand.

"Muk is unable to battle! The winner is Blastoise!"

Kai approached Blastoise to treat the poison, but Koga was quicker, tossing him an antidote.

"Use this my special antidote."

"Thank you," Kai said, accepting the medicine and administering it to Blastoise. The effects were immediate, and Blastoise's condition improved in no time.

"Amazing!" Kai exclaimed, surprised.

Aya smiled proudly. "Of course. My Brother is a Poison-type master. He's not only skilled in using poisons but also in creating antidotes. This formula neutralizes any poison and even provides temporary immunity!"

Kai was impressed. "Mr. Koga, would it be possible to—"

Before he could finish, Koga tossed him two more antidotes.

"Take these. I hope they prove useful in the future."

Kai was touched by Koga's generosity, having not even asked for payment.

At this moment, Aya retrieved a pink, heart-shaped badge from her pocket and handed it to Kai.

"Here. This is the Soul Badge, proof of your victory at the Fuchsia Gym."

Though her tone was formal, Aya felt guilty. She knew her brother's strength well and couldn't shake the thought that if her Venonat hadn't been defeated by Charmeleon earlier, Koga might not have lost the battle.

After bidding farewell to Koga, Kai left the Fuchsia Gym. However, as he stepped outside, a familiar voice called out to him.

Turning around, he saw Aya approaching.

"Miss Aya? What's the matter?"

Aya blocked his path and declared, "Battle me again!"

Kai blinked, confused. "Another battle? Why?"

"Revenge!" Aya said with determination, pulling out three Poké Balls and shaking them. "The gym battle had rules that limited me. This time, I want a proper three-on-three battle!"

"Sorry," Kai said, shaking his head. "My Pokémon are injured and need to recover at the Pokémon Center. Another day, perhaps."

Aya frowned, then gestured toward his Haunter and Kirlia. "Aren't they fit to battle?"

"They're both exhausted," Kai replied. "Besides, I have urgent matters to attend to. I really can't battle right now."

Aya hesitated but eventually nodded. "Fine. Another day. But don't think you can run away I'll find you no matter where you go!"

---

Back in Fuchsia City, Kai arrived at the Pokémon Center. After restoring his team's health, he joined them for lunch in the dining area.

As he ate some fries, Kai noticed his Dratini sitting alone in a corner, eating rapidly.

Its withdrawn behaviour concerned him, and he pondered how to help it integrate into the group.

His gaze fell on Charmeleon, and an idea struck him.

"Charmeleon, come here!"

"Charr?" Charmeleon approached, looking puzzled. Kai walked over to Dratini.

"Dratini," Kai said, catching its attention, "this is Charmeleon. Although you've met before, you probably don't know each other well. Starting today, Charmeleon is your big brother, and you're its younger sibling. Support each other and grow stronger together!"

Both Pokémon looked bewildered, exchanging confused glances.

Sensing their hesitation, Kai leaned close to Charmeleon and whispered, "Listen, Dratini's been through a lot and needs guidance. Help it regain confidence, okay?"

"Charrrrrrrrrrr!"(First, you Kidnapped me & I missed my date, now I have to babysit)
Charmeleon sighed but nodded reluctantly, ready to take on its new role.

---

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Chapter Text

---

The Charmeleon loudly patted its chest with a confident expression, as if to say, "Leave it to me!"

When Kai returned to the dining table, Haunter floated over and asked curiously, "Why did you leave this task to Charmeleon? Wouldn't it be better and more efficient for you to handle it yourself?"

"Of course, I'll help from the sidelines," Kai replied with a smile.

Haunter still looked puzzled, so Kai elaborated, "Actually, it's because of Charmeleon's straightforward personality. If I had given specific instructions, it might not have picked up on Dratini's subtle emotions. But its blunt and sincere behaviour might help Dratini adjust naturally!"

"For example," Kai continued, "I once met someone with a strong-willed personality. He became close friends with someone aloof by being persistent and sincere. That's why I believe Charmeleon is the perfect choice to help Dratini grow."

---

After leaving Fuchsia City, Kai headed south. Spending the night camping in the wild, he eventually arrived at the southern coastline of the Kanto region.

Continuing along the shoreline, he soon stumbled upon a quiet seaside town. Spotting some fishermen unloading their boats at the pier, he approached and asked, "Excuse me, do you know where the Seafoam Islands are located?"

"The Seafoam Islands?" An old fisherman, his face weathered by the sea, took a drag from his pipe and looked Kai over. "It's along the waterway leading to Cinnabar Island. It's quite far from here. Why do you ask, young man?"

Kai gazed out at the distant sea and replied, "I've heard rumours of a rare Pokémon there, and I just want to find it"

"A rare Pokémon? Are you talking about Articuno?" The old fisherman exhaled a puff of smoke and chuckled. "That's just an old tale. I've lived and fished in these waters for decades, but I've never seen any Articuno. Every year, people search for it, only to return disappointed."

Kai smiled politely. "I just want to try my luck. Even if I don't see Articuno, it'll be a fun adventure."

After patiently listening to the old man's stories, Kai finally managed to get directions to the Seafoam Islands.

Marking the location on his Pokégear, he thanked the fisherman and left the town.

Mounting his Gyarados, Kai ventured out to sea. As he approached the deep waters and his phone signal began to fade, a message notification popped up on his screen.

The sender was a girl with long, curly blonde hair. Her profile picture showed her holding someone's arm, her shy yet radiant smile lighting up the frame.

Staring at her picture, Kai seemed lost in thought. He hesitated, his fingers hovering over the screen, but he didn't open the message.

"Who's this lovely girl?"

Startled by the sudden voice, Kai nearly dropped his phone into the ocean. "Haunter! Don't sneak up on me like that!"

"Sneak up on you?" Haunter retorted, incredulous. "I've been calling your name! You're the one spacing out like a Staryu!"

Kai coughed awkwardly, quickly denying it. "I wasn't spacing out. I was just... thinking."

"Oh really?" Haunter teased, glancing at the phone. "So, who's the girl? Is that your arm she's holding?"

"She…" Kai hesitated, clearly reluctant. "She was a neighbour when I lived in the Kalos region. We used to play together, so we were close friends."

"That's it? Then why not reply to her?" Haunter pressed.

Kai sighed. "Something happened... something that makes it hard for me to face her now."

Recognizing the unease in Kai's tone, Haunter decided to change the subject. "By the way, how did you become a trainer? You never mentioned it before. Even Kirlia won't tell me!"

Kai shook his head. "It's a long story. I'll tell you when the time is right."

---

As Gyarados swam farther into the open sea, Kai decided to switch to his Zapdos. Taking to the skies, they flew westward, and two hours later, they arrived at their destination.

Scanning the area for landmarks, Kai spotted two islands in the distance. Known as the Seafoam Islands, their twin peaks rose abruptly from the ocean, resembling a pair of sentinels guarding the sea.

After circling the islands a few times, Kai instructed Zapdos to land on the larger one. A chilling sea breeze swept across the rocky terrain, making the sparse vegetation and exposed cliffs appear even more desolate.

"This place feels unwelcoming," Kai muttered, pulling his jacket tighter.

Almost immediately, wild Pokémon emerged from the shadows, fiercely defending their territory.

As Kai readied his Poké Balls, he muttered, "Guess I'm not getting a warm welcome here…"

---

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Chapter Text

----

"Ivysaur, use Razor Leaf!"

Following Kai's command, sharp leaves flew out from the bud on Ivysaur's back, striking the Geodude in front of them with precision.

Thud! Thud! Thud!

Under the relentless assault, the wild Geodude couldn't withstand the damage and rolled down the hillside into the forest below.

Kai exhaled a sigh of relief. Counting this encounter, it was the sixth wild Pokémon that had aggressively attacked him since arriving on the island.

Zubat, Geodude, Tentacool, Slowpoke, Shellder, Graveler, Kai had no idea what might show up next!

While his Pokémon were strong enough to handle these attackers with ease, constant battling was starting to wear them out.

After some thought, Kai decided to take precautions. He released all his Pokémon at once, letting them surround him.

The familiar blue glow of Poké Balls filled the air as Jolteon, Blastoise, and his other team members appeared, forming a protective circle around him.

"This should make any wild Pokémon think twice about attacking," he muttered to himself.

He continued deeper into the island, eventually reaching a cliff. A natural stone bridge spanned the chasm, and he carefully crossed it before passing through a narrow rock crevice.

On the other side, he found himself at the entrance to a vast, rocky labyrinth.

With his Pokémon by his side, the wild encounters dwindled. It seemed that the sight of so many Pokémon deterred most attackers.

The labyrinth was a maze of towering stone walls, with paths that twisted and turned in every direction.

Many of the corridors looked identical, and after taking a few wrong turns, Kai realized he had completely lost his sense of direction.

Haunter, floated alongside him, scanning the area. "Are you sure there's an Articuno on this island? We've been walking for ages and haven't seen a single clue!"

Kai smiled despite his exhaustion. "If it were easy to find, it wouldn't be such a legendary Pokémon, would it? People think birds like Articuno roost in high places, but I think we need to head downward instead."

Haunter blinked in surprise. "Down? You think there's something beneath this island?"

Kai nodded. "Feel that cold air seeping up from the ground? There's probably a massive icy cavern below. It's the perfect habitat for Articuno."

"That makes sense!" Haunter exclaimed. "But how do we find a way down?"

Kai looked up at Haunter and his Zapdos, the Thunder Pokémon perched nearby. "You two, check from above. Look for anything that might be an entrance to the underground."

"On it!" Haunter and Zapdos nodded, taking to the air to scout.

As they flew off, Kai sighed and leaned against a rock to rest. "If only I had a Pokémon that could dig," he muttered. "This would be so much easier."

After a brief pause, he resumed his journey, following the maze's winding paths. He stuck to the classic maze-solving strategy of keeping one hand on the wall and following it, hoping it would eventually lead somewhere.

The labyrinth bore signs of previous visitors abandoned campsites, faded scorch marks, and weathered supplies.

It seemed the old fisherman was right: many trainers had come here in search of Articuno, only to leave empty-handed.

When Haunter and Zapdos returned, they brought disappointing news. "No luck," Haunter said, floating down to Kai. "It's all just rocks and more rocks. There's no obvious way in from above."

Kai frowned, thinking for a moment. "If we can't find an entrance from above, let's try from below. Haunter, you can phase through the ground. Search for any underground caves and find a passage leading back to the surface."

"Got it!" Haunter's eyes lit up with excitement, and it sank into the ground.

This time, the wait was short. When Haunter returned, it wore a triumphant expression. "You were right! There's a massive ice cavern deep below, and I found a tunnel that leads straight to it!"

"Excellent!" Kai climbed onto Zapdos's back, and Haunter led the way. They flew over the maze until Haunter fired a Shadow Ball into the air to mark the location of the tunnel.

Zapdos landed gracefully near the hidden entrance. Kai dismounted and immediately noticed how well-concealed the tunnel was.

Thick weeds grew around it, and a massive rock partially blocked the opening, casting deep shadows that made it nearly invisible.

A gust of icy wind flowed out from the tunnel, biting through Kai's clothes and sending a shiver down his spine.

"This is the right place," he said, pulling his jacket tighter. He took out a flashlight and turned to Charmeleon. "You take the lead."

Charmeleon nodded, its tail flame illuminating the dark tunnel ahead. The group cautiously filed inside.

As they descended, the air grew colder and colder. The walls glistened with frost, and the ground became slick with ice. Kai could see his breath forming misty clouds in the frigid air.

"Almost there," he whispered, a mix of excitement and nervousness building within him.

----

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Chapter Text

---

As Kai moved deeper the temperature dropped significantly.

Seeing this, Kai couldn't help but approach Charmeleon, hoping to draw a little warmth from the flame on its tail.

As he passed through the long, narrow tunnel, the space suddenly expanded, becoming tall and wide. It was as though most of the mountain had been hollowed out.

Above him, sunlight streamed in through a gap, illuminating the area and dispelling the dimness he had anticipated.

Looking around, Kai noticed that the interior of the cave extended in all directions, forming a labyrinth whose endpoints were a mystery.

The cave bore obvious signs of past battles. Judging by the damaged stone walls and shattered pillars, countless trainers must have fought their way through the maze over the years to reach this place.

"Follow me," Haunter said.

Under Haunter's guidance, Kai ventured deeper, turning left and right through the maze. Finally, they arrived at a narrow, dug-out hole, no more than a meter wide in diameter.

The cave was teeming with wild Pokémon. Along the way, Kai caught glimpses of red lights in the darkness hostile eyes glaring at him from the shadows.

Yet none of them dared to approach, seemingly wary of Haunter's presence and the group as a whole.

Beside the hole, Kai observed traces of paw prints. He crouched down and ran his fingers over the scattered gravel and dirt.

The hole appeared old and dry, suggesting it wasn't the result of a battle but was instead dug out by a Pokémon, perhaps one that burrowed through to travel underground.

Kai aimed his flashlight into the hole, but the bottom was nowhere in sight. The shaft seemed to drop straight down.

Haunter grinned. "Don't underestimate this little hole. It might look ordinary, but it's actually a shortcut! Go down here, and we'll bypass several levels and reach the deepest point of the caves."

Kai didn't hesitate. He returned his other Pokémon to their Poké Balls and allowed Haunter to envelop him in a protective veil of ghostly energy. Slowly, they descended into the shaft.

The cramped space barely allowed Kai to move his arms or legs, but Haunter's protection eased his concerns.

Thick layers of rock and soil blurred past his vision as they descended rapidly. In just a short time, they had bypassed at least four levels of the cave.

At the bottom of the shaft, they emerged into a vast, open space. The area was barren, save for scattered rocks and stones.

Judging by the depth, Kai estimated they were far below sea level. Without Haunter's guidance, reaching this point would have been impossible without extraordinary luck or immense effort.

The air was noticeably colder, though there was no ice in sight an indication that their destination lay even further below.

"Where to next?" Kai asked.

"We need to go further down," Haunter replied, flashing a mischievous grin. "But from here on, we take a more... unique path."

Kai raised an eyebrow. "Unique path?"

Haunter led him through a jagged crevice in the rocks. The sound of rushing water grew louder until they reached a massive underground waterfall, its roar almost deafening.

Glancing at Kai, Haunter smirked. "This is it. We're here!"

Kai could barely hear Haunter over the crashing water. He raised his voice and shouted, "This is the 'unique path' you mentioned?!"

Haunter nodded enthusiastically. Kai sighed in exasperation and stepped cautiously to the edge of the cliff.

Looking down, he saw the waterfall plunging into the depths, its powerful current carving a path further below.

"Well, it seems there's no other way," Kai muttered. Releasing Kirlia from its Poké Ball, he gestured toward the waterfall. "Kirlia, can you teleport us to the bottom?"

Kirlia nodded, and with a touch, Kai and Charmeleon were teleported to the base of the waterfall, arriving at the deepest part of the Seafoam Islands.

The underground cavern was breathtaking. Stalactites of ice hung from the ceiling, while the floor was covered in a thick sheet of frost.

The air was so cold it seemed to pierce through Kai's bones. Yet the icy crystals reflected light, making the chamber brighter than the caves above.

Shivering, Kai quickly released Charmeleon and wrapped his arms around the Fire-type Pokémon for warmth. "Charmeleon, I'm so glad I caught you back then. You're my saving grace right now."

Charmeleon gave him a resigned look as if to say, Again with the hugging? It even tried to push him away.

At that moment, Haunter floated beside them, gesturing toward the distance. "Look over there!"

Kai squinted and saw a lake formed by the waterfall's crashing waters. In the middle of the lake stood a small island, its surface covered in a forest of icicles.

The island sparkled like a crystalline temple, otherworldly in its beauty.

"If Articuno is hiding anywhere, it's there!" Haunter exclaimed.

Kai snapped a few quick photos before kneeling by the lake. He dipped his fingers into the icy water, only to jerk them back immediately.

"It's freezing!" He quickly dried his hands on Charmeleon's tail flame. "Kirlia, I don't want to risk getting soaked. Can you teleport us across the lake?"

Kirlia nodded again, gently touching Kai and Charmeleon. In an instant, they appeared on the island.

Before Kai could take in his surroundings, a sudden burst of icy wind swept across the island, forcing him to shield his face.

Kirlia quickly created a protective psychic barrier, shielding them from the freezing gale. Even with the barrier, the air was so cold it felt like every breath burned his lungs.

Kai's teeth chattered. "Is this... the power of Articuno?"

He rummaged through his backpack and pulled out a potion-like bottle filled with a warm-tonic blend.

Drinking it, he felt heat spread through his body, as if he had downed a strong drink.

Haunter floated over with a sly grin. "We're definitely in the right place! Articuno must be here."

"Kreeee-aaaaahhhhhh!!!!!"

As if on cue, a piercing cry echoed through the icy chamber. A massive blue bird emerged from the forest of icicles, its shimmering feathers radiating a cold aura.

Its eyes locked onto Kai and his Pokémon filled with a majestic, icy resolve.

Kai couldn't help but grin despite the freezing air. "So this is Articuno... the Legendary Pokémon that so many trainers dream of meeting!"

---

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Chapter Text

----

The appearance of Articuno is notably distinct from Zapdos.

Unlike the dry, spiky feathers of Zapdos, Articuno's feathers are slightly translucent and a stunning shade of blue.

They are soft and fluffy, giving it a regal and elegant look. Its red eyes gleam with intensity, and a crown of three dark blue prismatic feathers sits majestically atop its head.

However, the most striking feature is its long, ribbon-like tail, which flows gracefully as it flies.

As Articuno soared and circled in the air, its tail trailed behind, making its movements appear fluid and majestic.

The moment Kai laid eyes on the magnificent creature.

Without hesitation, Kai pulled a Great Ball from his belt and released the Pokémon inside.

"Screeaaawkkk!!!!!"

In a flash of blue light, a sharp cry echoed as Zapdos appeared, flapping its jagged wings mid-air.

Zapdos and Articuno locked eyes, their auras radiating fierce energy. Though no words were spoken, the tension in the air was palpable.

This was more than a battle it was a clash of nature's forces, ice versus lightning, and a test of dominance over their shared territory.

Kai smirked and called out, "Articuno, you know why I'm here! Are you going to fight us or back down?"

His words were a challenge, daring Articuno to respond. The Legendary Ice Bird flapped its wings powerfully, summoning a frigid wind that howled through the area.

"Kirlia, block it!" Kai commanded. His Psychic Pokémon raised its arms, creating a barrier of psychic energy that dissipated the cold gust.

"So, that's your answer," Kai muttered, his eyes narrowing. "Zapdos, let's go! Use Discharge!"

Zapdos let out a sharp cry as its wings crackled with electricity, releasing a massive bolt of lightning that surged toward Articuno.

But Articuno was quick to counter, flapping its wings to form a barrage of sharp ice shards that flew toward Zapdos.

The air exploded with electricity and shards of ice as the two Legendary Pokémon clashed, their moves filling the battlefield with dazzling light and freezing winds.

Ice shards rained down, and Kai shielded himself as Kirlia used its psychic power to block the debris.

"Zapdos, don't let up! Hit it with Thunderbolt!" Kai shouted.

Zapdos launched a searing bolt of electricity, which struck Articuno with a deafening crack.

"Creee-aaaahhh!!!"

Articuno cried out but retaliated immediately, executing a swift Triple Axle.

Spinning with icy precision, it struck Zapdos with powerful kicks, sending the Electric Bird tumbling to the ground.

"Zapdos, get up! Don't give in!" Kai yelled.

Zapdos, though battered, unleashed a desperate Wild Charge, electricity surging as it collided with Articuno.

The impact sent shockwaves across the icy terrain, causing fissures to spread through the frozen ground.

Articuno screeched in pain but remained resilient, flapping its wings to summon a devastating Blizzard.

Snow and ice swirled violently, engulfing Zapdos and leaving the battlefield obscured in a frosty haze. Kai gritted his teeth, struggling to see through the storm.

"Zapdos, use Thunder! Give it everything you've got!"

Amidst the howling blizzard, thunder boomed as Zapdos released its most powerful attack.

RUMMMBLE!

A massive bolt of lightning tore through the storm, striking Articuno with blinding force.

The explosion of energy was so intense that the entire cave trembled, icicles shattering and falling around them.

When the storm finally settled, both Pokémon were grounded, battered from the exchange.

Zapdos lay unconscious, its energy completely spent. Articuno, though wounded and breathing heavily, managed to rise shakily into the air.

"Skraaa-oooooo!!!!"

With a victorious cry, Articuno flapped its wings, signalling its dominance.

Kai sighed, recalling Zapdos into its Poké Ball. "Zapdos, you did great. Take a well-earned rest."

He turned to his other Pokémon Kirlia, Jolteon, and Haunter determination burning in his eyes. "Articuno isn't down yet, and neither are we. Let's change our strategy. This time, we're all going in together!"

With his team at his side, Kai prepared for the next phase of the battle, determined to capture the Legendary Ice Bird no matter what it took.

----

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Chapter Text

---

Charmeleon and Jolteon nodded in agreement, but Haunter and Kirlia looked at Kai with worried eyes.

"Be careful out there," Haunter warned. "Don't get caught up in the battle!"

"Don't worry, I'll be cautious," Kai reassured them, patting Kirlia on the shoulder before releasing Gyarados and Blastoise from their Poké Balls. "These two will stay as guards and serve as backup. With them here, my safety is guaranteed. Now, you can focus on fighting with everything you've got!"

"Blastoise! Blastoise!"

Blastoise nodded firmly at Haunter, its expression resolute, as if to say, Leave this to me!

"All right, let's go!"

Haunter grinned excitedly and rushed toward Articuno, leading the rest of the Pokémon into battle.

Articuno flapped its wings, sending a fierce gust of wind through the area as if trying to intimidate the unevolved Pokémon into retreating.

"This pressure is intense!" Kai exclaimed. Then, shouted to his team, "Don't back down! Articuno is Injured & exhausted right now. Don't give him a chance to recover, Kirlia, use Psychic! Jolteon, Thunder Shock! Charmeleon, Flamethrower!"

The three attacks converged on Articuno. Sensing the danger, Articuno quickly whipped up a whirlwind, neutralizing the incoming moves.

But then, a Shadow Ball struck Articuno from behind, catching it off guard!

"Shrreee..ooooh!!"

Articuno cried out, spinning around to find Haunter laughing mischievously behind it.

"Hehehehe, do you want one more?"

Angrily, Articuno retaliated with an Ice Shard attack, but Haunter vanished into the shadows with a chilling laugh.

The icy projectile missed its mark, shattering harmlessly against the cave wall.

"Ha ha ha..."

Haunter's eerie laughter echoed, keeping Articuno on edge. Before it could pinpoint the sound's source, another Shadow Ball hit it, further enraging the Legendary Pokémon.

Articuno, now furious, unleashed an attack of icy snow, blanketing the battlefield indiscriminately in an attempt to flush Haunter out.

However, while Articuno focused on this, a fiery Flamethrower struck it from below. Unable to dodge in time, Articuno's side was scorched!

Articuno screeched in frustration. Surrounded by attacks from multiple directions, it struggled to keep up.

The damage it sustained began to take its toll, and its movements became slower.

Suddenly, Articuno narrowed its eyes, spread its wings, and ascended toward the cave's stone ceiling.

"Is it retreating?" Haunter asked, puzzled.

"No," Kai said, watching Articuno intently. "It's preparing a powerful move! Everyone, stay on guard!"

Realizing the danger, Kai's team launched a volley of attacks, but the distance was too great, and their moves couldn't reach in time.

As Haunter prepared to intercept, Articuno completed its attack. A misty blue energy condensed into a sphere before crashing downward toward the ground.

Kai's expression darkened. "It's Sheer Cold! Everyone, get out of the way!"

Like Fissure, Sheer Cold was a one-hit KO move. If it landed, the damage would incapacitate any Pokémon that wasn't immune to Ice-type attacks.

Reacting swiftly, Haunter disappeared into the shadows, Kirlia used Teleport to escape, and Jolteon dashed out of the attack's range with its incredible speed.

But Charmeleon wasn't fast enough and was struck by the icy blast.

The freezing mist enveloped Charmeleon, forming massive shards of ice that trapped it completely.

Unable to even cry out, Charmeleon was instantly frostbitten and lost consciousness. As the ice shattered, Charmeleon fell to the ground, motionless.

Kai quickly returned Charmeleon to its Poké Ball. "Haunter! Don't let it launch another attack! Do something!"

"Got it!" Haunter replied, its tone serious now.

Haunter's eyes glowed as they manipulated the icy stalactites in the cave, hurling them at Articuno.

Simultaneously, waterspouts began forming outside the cave, swirling toward the Legendary Pokémon.

Although the waterspouts were slow and mostly missed, some of the ice shards struck Articuno. Unfortunately, the damage was minimal.

"Hey!" Kai shouted. "Ice-type attacks won't work against it! Don't waste your energy!"

"I know!" Haunter replied, frustrated. "But this cave is full of ice and water I can't create something out of nothing!"

"Then use Hypnosis!" Kai commanded.

Haunter nodded and began emitting hypnotic waves in a circular motion. The waves penetrated Articuno's mind, causing its eyelids to droop.

Within moments, Articuno fell into a deep sleep, losing altitude rapidly.

Just before Articuno hit the ground, Haunter activated Dream Eater.

Bang!

The combined impact of Dream Eater and the fall dealt massive damage, leaving Articuno unconscious.

"Good work, Haunter!" Kai called out as he approached the fainted Pokémon.

Articuno, once majestic, now lay on the ground with its feathers ruffled and its form battered.

Wasting no time, Kai retrieved a Great Ball from his bag and threw it at Articuno.

The Great Ball engulfed Articuno in a flash of red light. After shaking a few times, it clicked shut, signifying a successful capture.

Kai let out a sigh of relief, a smile breaking across his face.

"That's it another Legendary Pokémon is mine!"

---

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Chapter Text

---

Kai's Pokémon slowly gathered around him, carefully forming a protective circle.

Picking up the Poké Ball containing Articuno, Kai took one last look at the Ice Temple.

The beauty of this sacred place had been destroyed by the fierce battle earlier, leaving behind only devastation and ruins.

He sighed. "Though it's become like this, it's a shame. But maybe, in time, other Articuno will return to inhabit this place. I believe that in a few years, it will look just as magnificent as before."

Gathering his thoughts, Kai, now that his goal had been accomplished, turned and departed without lingering.

When Kirlia used Teleport to transport Kai outside the island in the middle of the lake, Kai didn't retrace his steps. Instead, he waited for Haunter to scout a way out.

Climbing partway up a steep rock wall, he flew for a long distance before finally finding a narrow crack leading to the surface.

As the light returned to his surroundings, the refreshing sea breeze brushed against his skin.

Kai stood on the cliffs of the Seafoam Islands, gazing at the endless blue sky and ocean.

Although the Seafoam Islands appear as two distinct landmasses surrounded by water, they are connected by underwater passages, reflecting their twin-like nature.

---

Leaving the Seafoam Islands, Kai travelled westward along the waterways. After several hours, he crossed the sea and arrived at Cinnabar Island.

The island's fiery red colour lived up to its name. Situated at the southernmost point of the Kanto region, Cinnabar Island is the largest landmass in the southern waters.

It is covered in lush forests and dominated by a massive, active volcano. In recent years, tectonic movements have caused instability, leaving residents uncertain when the volcano might erupt again.

Kai's reason for coming here was clear: to challenge the Cinnabar Gym and earn the Volcano Badge!

Next to the golden, pristine beach stood Cinnabar Town, a popular tourist destination and resort town.

As night fell, Kai arrived in the town. His first stop was the Pokémon Center to heal his injured Pokémon.

At the Pokémon Center, Nurse Joy, a woman with slightly tanned skin, received Kai's Poké Balls. When she saw the two legendary Pokémon inside, her eyes widened in surprise.

"This is..."

However, her professionalism quickly took over. She composed herself, smiled politely at Kai, and took the Poké Balls into the treatment room.

It didn't take long for his Pokémon to recover. Afterwards, Kai booked a room and took a warm, relaxing bath to rid himself of the lingering cold. Finally, he had time to tend to Zapdos and Articuno.

---

Kai began by releasing Zapdos. A flash of blue light illuminated the room, and Zapdos appeared. Its usual fiery arrogance was gone, replaced by a dejected demeanour after its earlier loss.

'His loss against Articuno has humbled him' Seeing this, Kai gently patted the bird's wing and spoke words of encouragement.

"Winning or losing doesn't matter, Zapdos. You're incredibly strong in my eyes. But Articuno was just stronger this time. Don't let this defeat weigh on you."

He paused and smiled. "Think of it this way: having a strong rival gives you a goal to strive toward. When you've grown even stronger, you can challenge Articuno again. Next time, give it your all and prove your strength!"

After hearing Kai's motivational words, Zapdos perked up, its spirit visibly lifted. Satisfied, Kai returned it to its Poké Ball and released Articuno next.

The room's temperature plummeted as Articuno appeared, its shimmering blue feathers glinting in the light.

The icy chill felt like turning on an air conditioner at the height of summer.

"Articuno, welcome to the team!" Kai said warmly. "I'm Kai. I hope we can get along well from now on."

Articuno didn't hold any grudges about being captured. Despite facing multiple opponents, it had been an intense battle. It had defeated Zapdos but eventually lost to Haunter, acknowledging the ghost's strength.

After introducing the rest of his Pokémon to Articuno, Kai changed into clean clothes and left his room to grab some food.

---

Just as he was about to eat, a familiar voice called out behind him.

"Brother Kai!"

Turning around, he saw Misty, Ash, and Brock approaching.

That old nickname stirred memories of a girl who used to cling to him back in Kalos's Coumarine City. Kai shook his head and smiled.

"What a coincidence! I didn't expect to see you all here."

"That's right!" Misty beamed. "We just arrived on this island and were planning to rest up tonight. Tomorrow, we'll accompany Ash to challenge the Cinnabar Gym!"

Ash and Brock greeted Kai warmly, and even Pikachu chirped happily.

"It seems we have the same goal again," Kai remarked, his gaze landing on a Pokémon cradled in Misty's arms.

It was small, with a patterned shell resembling an egg. Only its starfish-shaped yellow upper body was visible.

"Huh? You've got a Togepi?"

"That's right!" Misty said proudly, holding Togepi up for Kai to see. "It hatched from an egg when we passed through the Valley of Charizard!"

Seeing Misty's joy, Kai smiled. "That's a rare Pokémon. You should take good care of it!"

As they chatted, the four of them headed to a restaurant and shared dinner together.

Amid laughter, they talked about their travels, swapping stories and experiences.

Ash, eager to show off, opened his jacket to reveal six shiny badges. "Big Brother Kai, look! We have the same number of badges now. How about we see who can earn the next one first?"

Kai chuckled. "There's more to life than competition, Ash. Besides, Blaine, the Cinnabar Gym Leader, is a formidable opponent. Don't underestimate him."

Ash, always brimming with confidence, replied, "My Pokémon are strong! No matter who the opponent is, I can handle it!"

Misty smirked. "Oh, really?" She snapped her fingers and began listing Ash's badge wins. "Let's see... The Boulder and Cascade Badges were handed to you because Brock and I took pity on you."

Ash's face turned red, but Misty continued relentlessly.

"Then there's Sabrina's Marsh Badge. You only won because the Haunter you brought from the Pokémon Tower made her laugh. And Erika's Rainbow Badge? If Team Rocket hadn't set her gym on fire and you hadn't saved her Gloom, you probably wouldn't have earned that one either!"

"In fact," Misty concluded, "the only badges you won fairly were from Lt. Surge at the Vermilion Gym and Koga at the Fuchsia Gym."

Ash, flustered, could only laugh awkwardly. But the lively exchange left everyone in high spirits as they enjoyed their meal.

---

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Chapter Text

----

Ash's energy instantly faded.

Indeed, of everyone he had encountered during his journey, the only one who could criticize him so bluntly was Misty, known for her fiery temperament and unwavering honesty qualities that made her one of a kind.

"Hey! Don't underestimate me like that!" Ash retorted loudly, clearly offended. "Fine! Tomorrow, I'll show you how I earn the Volcano Badge with my strength!"

"Really?" Misty said, smirking as she baited him further. "If you're so confident, then we'll just have to wait and see!"

---

That night, Kai returned to his room but found himself unable to sleep. On the other two beds, Ash and Brock were snoring loudly, their rhythmic sounds grating on his ears like nails on a chalkboard.

After tossing and turning for what felt like forever, Kai grabbed his Pokégear and opened a messaging app. His eyes lingered on an unread conversation.

PinkDream: "Brother Kai, is everything going well?"

Although it was a short and simple message, Kai could tell it carried a depth of concern, underscored by the familiarity of the nickname.

He sighed, recalling the strong yet delicate girl who had sent it someone who had once cried in front of him when he gently refused her feelings.

That memory still pained him, like a knife twisting in his chest.

After a moment of hesitation, he began to type.

Kai: "Everything's fine. I managed to catch a few Pokémon, and Ralts evolved into Kirlia."

Feeling the message was too curt, he added:

Kai: "Sorry for not keeping in touch for so long. How have you been recently?"

The message was sent, and Kai stared at the chat for a moment. Their profile pictures were from the same photo. His was of him smiling faintly, with her arms looped tightly around his. It felt bittersweet now.

To his surprise, a reply came almost instantly. Adjusting his posture, Kai read her message.

PinkDream: "The same as always. Mom still has me practising with my Rhyhorn every day. Crying emoji. It's so tough!"

Her reply felt lighthearted, but Kai could sense her underlying excitement. He responded with casual updates about his journey, and they chatted for another ten minutes before his fatigue finally overtook him.

He ended the conversation with a promise to talk again soon.

---

The next morning, Kai, Ash, Misty, and Brock left the Pokémon Center and began exploring Cinnabar Island, famous for its hot springs and resorts.

Tourists swarmed the streets, browsing stores that sold traditional yukata, hot spring eggs, and other souvenirs.

Following the directions on Kai's Pokégear, they made their way to the Cinnabar Gym.

But when they arrived, they found a hot spring resort in its place.

"Huh?" Misty tilted her head. "A hot spring resort? Did the gym move somewhere else?"

Before anyone could answer, an elderly man wearing a bright red jacket, sunglasses, and sporting a long white beard approached them from the resort. Without hesitation, he asked:

"The head is cold, but the body is warm. What is it?"

Ash blinked in confusion. "Is this a riddle? Uh, maybe it's... someone who sticks their head in snow but wraps their body in an electric blanket?"

The old man frowned. "What kind of answer is that? Don't answer if you don't know!"

Misty stepped forward. "I think the answer is an open-air hot spring."

The old man's face lit up. "Exactly! You're quite the clever young lady! Now for the next riddle: Cake, eggs, and rice what does a puppy like to eat most?"

Brock scratched his chin thoughtfully. "Hmm, maybe rice? Puppies wouldn't like sweets, would they?"

"No way!" Misty shook her head. "I bet it's cake!"

Ash rolled his eyes. "Misty, you're the one obsessed with cake. Puppies definitely wouldn't eat something that sugary!"

Ignoring Ash and Misty's argument, Kai smiled knowingly. He already recognized who the old man was. "I think the answer is eggs."

"Oh?" The old man's eyes twinkled. "And why do you think that?"

"Because," Kai said, "people often say there are bones in the egg."

The old man burst into laughter. "Correct! Isn't my riddle fun?"

Ash, Misty, and Brock exchanged helpless looks, clearly unimpressed.

Kai smirked. "Since you enjoy riddles so much, how about I ask you one?"

Intrigued, the old man nodded. "What a rare treat! No one has ever quizzed me before. Go ahead!"

Kai cleared his throat. "If two people fall into a trap, the dead one is called 'dead.' What is the living one called?"

The old man and Misty guessed several answers, but none were correct. Finally, Misty admitted defeat and asked, "What's the answer?"

Kai grinned. "The living one is called 'help,' because they're shouting for it!"

He laughed at his own joke, but his companions remained silent, their expressions blank.

"You don't get it?" Kai asked incredulously.

"Not really," Brock admitted. Ash and Misty shook their heads in agreement.

The old man sighed. "Kid, I thought my riddles were dull, but yours might be even duller."

Kai staggered as if physically struck. "What?! My riddles are great! Fine, let me try one more!"

He leaned in dramatically. "What's something people know is fake, but they're still willing to spend money on?"

Before anyone could answer, Kai pointed at the old man's head and exclaimed, "A wig! Hahaha!"

Ash, Misty, and Brock facepalmed simultaneously. Even the old man sighed and patted Kai's shoulder.

"Young man," he said gravely, "you've mastered the art of cold humour. From today, I acknowledge you as my greatest rival in riddles."

Kai blinked, stunned. "Wait, what? I never said I wanted to compete in cold humour!"

----

For early access to advanced chapters and exclusive illustrations made by me, visit my P@treon:

P@treon/iamxeno

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!