Mike Ketchum's Pokemon Journey

[Phoenix004]

Hi everybody! I'm so glad the forum is back! (Aren't we all?) So I thought I'd start right away! Enjoy the first part of chapter one, I'll have more up soon! There may be a slight delay as I am making one or two changes. Until then however, here it is:

(Disclaimer: Pokemon is not and never will be owned by me. It belongs to the geniuses at Nintendo and its creator, Satoshi Tajiri).

Chapter 1: Mike Ketchum, Son of the Pokemon Master.

Mike Ketchum was a twelve-year-old boy from Pallet Town. He was tall and reasonably athletic, and had short dark brown hair, and dark brown eyes. Mike was the only child of Pokemon Master Ash Ketchum and Misty Waterflower, an expert on Water Pokemon.
Tomorrow he departs on his Pokemon journey after passing his trainer’s licence exam and getting his first Pokemon. But right now he is watching the battle that earned his father the rank of Pokemon Master (for about the millionth time).
“Go Dragonite!”
“Go Pikachu!”
“Pikachu use Thunder!”
“Dragonite, Hyper beam!”
Dragonite started charging up a ball of raw energy and fired at Pikachu.
“Pikaaaaa…Chuuuuu!”
Huge bolts of electricity shot from the electric mouse and…..CLICK! The TV went off.
Mike turned around to see his mum and dad; his mum was holding the TV remote.
“Mum! I was watching that!” Mike complained.
“You shouldn’t be watching TV now Mike; its 11:30 and you should be asleep,” his mother pointed out.
“But…” Mike began.
“But tomorrow you begin your Pokemon journey, you can’t sleep. I know Mike I said the same thing twenty years ago,” his dad told him with a smile.
“Ok I’ll go to bed in a minute I just need to pack a few extra things,” Mike said.
“Alright, good night Mike,” his mum said as she left the room.
Mike put his copy of How to be a Pokemon Master by Ash Ketchum in his backpack and climbed into his bed. As he tried to get to sleep he thought of which Pokemon to pick the next day. In his father’s day, the Pallet town starting Pokemon had been: Bulbasaur, Squirtle and Charmander. Mike even had posters of these three Pokemon, and many others, tacked to his bedroom wall. Mike rolled over in his bed to face the posters.
Bulbasaur, the Grass type. Bulbasaur looked like a small blue dinosaur with a green bulb on its back. It had red eyes and a determined look on its face. Bulbasaur were known to be very loyal Pokemon, and pretty tough when it comes to a fight. It was the ideal choice for beginners.
Squirtle, the Water type. Squirtle looked like a blue turtle with a bushy tail and rock-solid shell. However, despite Squirtle’s cute appearance, you would be most unwise to mistake this Pokemon for a weakling; Squirtle can be offensive as well as defensive.
And last but not at all least; Charmander, the Fire type Pokemon. Charmander looked like a cute orange lizard with a burning flame on the end of its tail. Once again looks can be deceiving, as Charmander is believed to be the most powerful of the three; releasing scorching flames from its mouth. Charmander are the hardest to raise however, and have been known to disobey inexperienced trainers on occasion.
Mike sighed as he looked at his poster of Charmander. Pokemon league rules had changed since his Father’s day, and it was thought that Charmander was too much for some beginning trainers to handle. Especially if it evolved before it respected its trainer. Five years ago, the governors of the Pokemon League Committee had announced that Pikachu was to be the replacement starter Pokemon for Charmander. Mike had been very disappointed at this announcement, as he had always wanted a Charmander. Well there’s no point in thinking about it all night, Mike thought. I’ll probably get a Pikachu like dad. So with that in mind, he eventually went to sleep...

[Tidus24]

His rival could be, Brendan Oak, Gary Oak son.

[Phoenix004]

I appreciate your suggestion Tidus, but I'd already started this on the old forum and had got as far as Viridian forest. The reason I haven't posted anymore yet is because there was a large ammount of editing which needed to be done in Chapter 1, so I couldn't post anymore until now.
I am grateful for any feedback, good or bad. Now here's more:

“Dodriiiiiiiooooo!”
Mike was awakened by the screeching of the local Dodrio. He shot out of bed and looked at his bedside clock and breathed a sigh of relief as it was only 8:30. He changed into his black T-shirt with a Pokeball symbol on the front, and his Army combat trousers. He then went down stairs and ate his breakfast at warp speed.
Twenty minutes later, after continuous testing by his dad he was ready to leave and so he set off towards Professor Oak’s lab. As he approached the lab he saw three other trainers walking up to it. Mike was good friends with two of the three boys.
The tall, muscular boy with spiky black hair and blue eyes was Ben Marshell (or Moz, as his friends called him. No-one could quite remember why he was called this). He had been a friend of Mike’s since his early childhood. Ben also happened to be the son of Bruno, the world master of Fighting Pokemon, and ex-member of the Indigo League Elite Four. It was because of this that Mike and Ben had originally become friends; they both knew what it was like to have fame and popularity for something your father had done.
The second boy was Daniel Crono. Daniel was several inches shorter than Mike, but not fat or thin. He had short black hair and emerald green eyes, and was wearing a metallic-grey shirt and plain blue jeans. Daniel was not exactly a household name, but he still one of Mike’s closest friends.
Last but not least, Mike’s greatest rival, Andrew Oak. He was about average height and build, and had long, wavy, brown hair, and steel-grey eyes. He wore a red sweatshirt and black jeans.
Andrew’s father was Gary Oak, the Viridian gym leader and friend of Ash Ketchum. Professor Oak was Andrew’s great Grandfather. Despite the fact that Ash and Gary were now good friends, Andrew wanted nothing to do with Mike. He seemed to resent the fact that Mike was so famous and popular, even though Mike disliked people’s undeserved attention. Andrew was certainly no friend of Mike’s, quite the opposite in fact. Andrew hated him. Mike had no idea why Andrew loathed him so much. But that’s another story.
As Mike walked towards the lab one of them, Ben, noticed Mike and waved.
“Hi guys, great to see you!” Mike said grinning from ear to ear in anticipation.
“Hey Mike, I see you did decide to join us after all,” Ben said as Mike finally reached them.
“We were starting to think your old man’s Pikachu had shocked you into paralysis!” Daniel teased him jokingly. All four of them reached the entrance and went inside the vast laboratory.
Mike followed the other trainers inside. Once inside the lab Mike sat down next to the other trainers and looked at Professor Oak who was smiling at them.
Professor Oak was over sixty years old now, and rumour had it that he was planning to retire in a couple of years, but he didn’t look so old to Mike. The fiery passion for his work could still be clearly seen in the Professor’s eyes.
“Welcome to my Laboratory,” Professor Oak greeted them kindly. “Although some of you have been here before.” He added with a smile. The Professor was well aware of the fact that all four of us had been there before.
“The four of you are here today because you have decided to become Pokemon trainers, to train Pokemon to be the best that they can be. I know that each and everyone of you have the ability to go far in this world. I have faith in you; all you need is to have faith in yourselves.” The professor’s voice was full of pride. “However, if you wish to achieve greatness, you must first be given a starter Pokemon. The Pokemon League will not allow me to give you a starter Pokemon without filling out this form first,” he said, holding up an A4 sized sheet. “There are also ten questions on the sheet which need to be answered. You must answer at least six out of ten to pass. You have twenty minutes. Can you hand them out please Tracey?”
From out of a side door, Tracey, Professor Oak’s Aide, appeared with a hand full of forms.
Tracey was a tall, thin man, with short black hair, and dark eyes. He was about thirty years old and wore plain brown trousers and a white lab coat. Mike first remembered meeting him at a “Trainer’s Reunion Party” when he was five.
Tracey whispered “Good luck, though I doubt you’ll need it,” as he passed Mike a form to fill out. Mike answered the questions as follows:

Name: Mike Ketchum.
Age: 12.
Address: 152, Phoenix Street, Pallet Town.
Reason for becoming trainer: I love Pokemon and I want to travel the world and meet new friends. One day I will be a Pokemon Master!
Preferred starter Pokemon: I would have liked to have picked Charmander, but I guess I’ll take Pikachu instead.

Now answer the following questions:
1) How many types of Pokemon are there?
Eighteen.
2) Which type is the most recently discovered?
Light type.
3) How many badges are needed to enter the Indigo League?
Nine.
4) In which location is the newest gym located?
Seafoam Islands.
5) What do Alakazam, Girafarig, and Gardevoir have in common?
They are all Psychic Pokemon.
6) Is “Hurricane” a Pokemon move?
No.
7) What does Eevee evolve into when it touches a Metal Coat?
Cyboreon.
8) What Pokemon is said to be so powerful that it lives beneath the sea?
Lugia.
9) If you think that you’ve had a dream you can’t remember, which Psychic Pokemon has probably eaten it?
Hypno.
10) If you saw a wild Pokemon that was injured, what would you do?
Take it to the nearest Pokemon Centre.

[fire_turtle]

Hey, great story! He got 3, 6, 7 and 8 wrong, right? Just enough to pass? I think the one with Lugia could be Kyogre but then he would fail. Wait! that must be it! Am I right?

[Phoenix004]

Actually, there have been some changes in the Pokemon League in the last twenty years, as well as some newly discovered Pokemon. Will Mike pass? You're about to find out!



“Your time is up!” Professor Oak announced. “Please hand in your tests!”
All four trainers walked up to Oak’s desk and handed in the sheets, they then returned to their seats and waited in scared silence for Oak to finish the marking. The Professor then called them into a side room one-by-one, to tell them the results of their tests. Mike had to wait fifteen agonising minutes before Professor Oak called him to the side room. He was the last one to get his results.
“Congratulations Mike,” Professor Oak said as Mike entered the room. “The actual answer to question nine was Drowsee, but that still means you got nine out of ten. You've passed the test; now follow me to get your Pokemon!” He added with a smile. Mike, who was tingling with excitement, followed Professor Oak to the back of the lab where there was a small glass dome containing three Pokeballs.
“I’m afraid that the other three Pokemon trainers also passed the test so…” Professor Oak started to explain.
“WHAT!” Mike demanded. “You mean there are no Pokemon left!”
“I didn’t say that,” Prof. Oak said. “I said that the other three trainers have passed the test and been given a Pokemon. However, there is one Pokemon left, but I’m not so sure you’ll be to keen on this Pokemon…” Professor Oak hid a smile.
“I don’t care if it’s a Magikarp! I have to have a Pokemon!” Mike insisted.
“Well I don’t see why not, it should obey you fine,” said Professor Oak.
He took a Pokeball from a shelf and handed it to Mike who took it. Praying that it wasn’t a Magikarp, Mike threw it into the air and yelled “Pokeball go!”
There was a flash of light and then a cute orange Pokemon with a flaming tail appeared in front of Mike and said “Charmander, Char.”
“Wow a CHARMANDER! Thank you so much Professor!” Mike cried with delight.
“I’m glad you like it Mike. Here is your Pokedex. It’s called Dex. And here are your pokeballs,” Professor Oak explained while handing Mike five pokeballs and a red rectangular object that looked like a fold-up computer. He decided to look up Charmander on his Pokedex:

Pokedex Data Download: Charmander: The Fire lizard Pokemon. This Pokemon enjoys hot places and dislikes the rain. The flame on the end of its tail symbolizes its life force, the bigger the flame, the more powerful this Pokemon gets.

“Thanks again Professor,” said Mike gratefully. He walked out of the lab feeling like he was a Pokemon Master already.

[Phoenix004]

Chapter 2: A new friend, and a new enemy.

“You got a Charmander? That’s great!” Mike’s mum told him happily.
“Your Charmander sure looks happy about going on a journey with you Mike,” his dad told him. Mike looked at his Charmander who was talking and laughing with his dad’s Pikachu.
“Mike, I want you to have this,” his dad said. He reached into his pocket and took out something that looked a little like a mobile phone.
“A PokeGear?!” Mike gasped in shock. PokeGear was extremely expensive due to all the extras installed into the latest model. Not only was it a mobile video phone with a built in Satellite map; but it could also be used to transfer Pokemon from Professor Oak’s lab to wherever Mike might be.
“Make sure you look after it Mike,” Ash told him.
“Thanks dad.” He didn’t know what else to say to him.
“Well everybody I better get going, come on Charmander its time to go on our journey!” Mike announced.
All of Ash and Misty's Pokemon shouted their farewells.

*

“We’re not getting anywhere Charmander! We haven’t seen a single Pokemon all day!” Mike complained.
“Charmander char, mander char,” Charmander pointed out.
“I know we’ve only been walking for an hour Charmander, but I still thought we’d have seen something by now,” Mike said worriedly.
“Aaaaaaaahhhhhhh!”
A deafening scream came from over the hill.
“Let’s go check it out Charmander!” said Mike.
Mike and Charmander ran to the top of the hill and saw a Primeape attacking a girl (around Mike’s age) and her Cyndaquil. The Cyndaquil looked very weak. The girl was trying to recall her Cyndaquil but was being blocked by the Primeape.
“Let’s see what Dex says,” said Mike, flipping open his Pokedex:

Pokedex Data Download: Primeape: The evolved form of Mankey, the pig monkey Pokemon. This ape-like Fighting Pokemon is very powerful, aggressive; bad tempered, and won’t give in easily; approach with extreme caution!

“She needs help! Charmander use your Fireball attack on that Primeape!” Mike ordered.
“Char!” Charmander fired a small ball of fire from its mouth, which hit the enraged Pokemon in the face and diverted its attention to Charmander.

(Author’s Note: ‘Fireball’ is an attack that I made up myself, please don’t steal it! Thank you!)

“Vulpix, I choose you!” shouted the girl, throwing a Pokeball towards the Primeape.
FLASH! An orange Pokemon with six tails appeared.

Pokedex Data Download: Vulpix: the fox Pokemon. Although born with only one tail, Vulpix’s tail splits into six as it gets older. It has an everlasting flame inside its body, which means that it must occasionally release some of this fire during the day to stop its body temperature getting too hot.

[Phoenix004]

“Vulpix, quick attack!” she ordered.
An orange blur shot towards the Primeape and hit it in the chest. Now the Primeape glared at Vulpix, and it was obviously very angry!
“PRIMEAPE!”
The Primeape ran towards the girl with its fists raised.
“Charmander, finish it off with your Flamethrower!” Mike called for the finishing blow.
“Char, man, der!”
Charmander unleashed a powerful blast of flame from its mouth, scorching the Primeape and causing it to run terrified and burnt into the forest.
“You’re lucky I was passing by, what’s your name?” Mike asked.
“Thanks for the help, my name’s Pyra Flames, what’s yours?” Pyra asked; she didn’t seem at all shaken by what had just happened.
“I’m Mike Ketchum from Pallet town,” Mike replied.
“Ash Ketchum’s son? Cool! You look a lot like your dad,” Pyra commented.
Pyra did have a point; He had black hair and dark eyes just like his dad.
Mike looked at Pyra. She had long blonde hair, streaked with red; and blue eyes. She wore black jeans and a T-shirt which looked as if it had been made out of flames, as it was striped with red, orange and yellow colouring. It didn’t take a genius to guess that she liked fire.
Pyra stared at Mike; Mike stared back.
She’s cute, Mike thought.
He’s cute, Pyra thought.
I wonder why they’re staring at each other like that, Charmander thought.
“Err…we should take Cyndaquil to the Pokemon Centre,” said Mike, who was still staring at Pyra.
“We?” asked Pyra, who was hoping that was what he meant to say.
“Charmander and I might as well come with you, we were on our way to Viridian City anyway,” Mike told her.
“That’s fine; Vulpix, Cyndaquil return,” she said; recalling her Pokemon to their Pokeballs then turning to Mike and expecting him to return Charmander.
“Charmander you deserve some rest,” he said, as he returned Charmander to its Pokeball, and they set off towards Viridian.
As they were travelling to Viridian, Mike and Pyra told each other about themselves.
Mike told her about himself and how he had wanted to become a Pokemon Trainer and passing the exam and then getting Charmander as his first Pokemon.
Pyra told him that she was a granddaughter of Blaine Flames the ex-Cinnabar island gym leader and sister of Flaira Flames, the new gym leader. She also told him that she had wanted to be the gym leader, but her sister defeated her in a Pokemon match. So she decided to travel the world and become the world’s greatest Fire Pokemon Trainer!
Unfortunately she had been attacked by a Primeape and her Cyndaquil was attacked before it could light its flame.

*

“There’s no need to worry about Cyndaquil, the procedure went well and it should be fine, you can talk to it in the recovery room if you want,” said Nurse Joy in a caring voice.
“Thanks Nurse Joy,” Pyra said with relief as she entered the recovery room.
Mike waited patiently in the waiting room and decided to call home. Ring ring ring, ring ring ring. Phone call! Phone call! Ring ring ring, ring ring ring. Phone call! Phone call!
“Hello, Ash Ketchum speaking,” Mike’s dad said.
“Hi dad, I’m in the Viridian City Pokemon Centre!” Mike said happily.
“Wow you were fast Mike, it took me a whole day to get to Viridian city,” his dad said; he sounded very impressed.
“Have you caught any new Pokemon yet?” Ash asked eagerly.
“Err, not yet,” Mike said sounding embarrassed.
“Don’t worry about it Mike I didn’t catch any Pokemon before Viridian City,” Ash pointed out.
“Yeah I know it’s just that the reason I didn’t catch any Pokemon is because I met someone on the way here who was in trouble and I got side tracked,” Mike told him.
“I seem to recall a similar thing happening on my first day. Well… the meeting and getting side tracked part anyway. So how did you meet her?” Ash asked. “How did you know it was a girl?” Mike asked shocked.
“Because she’s standing behind you,” Ash told him with a smile.
After another shock for Mike, he and Pyra told Ash how Mike had saved her from the wild Primeape and taken Cyndaquil to the Pokemon Centre.
“Well, it seems you two are getting along well already; I wonder how your relationship will turn out?” Ash wondered aloud.
They both blushed at the thought.
“This is going to be very interesting,” Ash laughed.
“We better get going,” Mike said breaking the silence. “Tell mum I called dad, bye!”
Mike hung up and sighed.
“Sorry about that Pyra, my parents are nice but they do embarrass me sometimes,” Mike apologised.
“Its alright, my parents are like that to,” Pyra said.
Suddenly a Meowth and a boy and girl in their late teens and dressed in black outfits with a red `R` on their chests came in; they were each carrying a Pokeball.

(Author’s note: You may notice small changes in the Team Rocket motto).

“Prepare for trouble!” shouted the girl.
“And make it double!” yelled the boy.
“To plague the world with devastation!”
“To destroy all peoples within our nation!”
“To reject the evils of truth and love!”
“To extend our power to the stars above!”
“Jessica!”
“Jack!”
“Team Rocket, fighting Earth all day and night!”
“Surrender now or it’s time to fight!”
“Meowth that’s right!” yelled the Meowth.

[Phoenix004]

Here's some more, sorry for the delay. Please tell me what you think!

“Team Rocket! I thought they broke up ten years ago!” Mike said shocked.
“That’s what everyone thought,” said Jack.
“But we were really gathering our forces, waiting to return with even more power than before!” Jessica yelled.
“And with a brand new Team Rocket motto,” Meowth added.
“Hey wait a minute,” Pyra interrupted. “A talking Meowth? The only talking Meowth I’ve ever heard of evolved into a Persian before Team Rocket surrendered. How did you learn to talk?” she asked the Meowth.
“That Persian happens to be my dad. And he taught me ‘Human talk,’” Meowth told her.
“Enough of the chit chat Meowth! Let’s just get what we came for!” Jessica complained loudly.
“Yeah Meowth,” said Jack. “We came to steal their Pokemon not to give them your life story!”
“You’re not getting our Pokemon!” Mike yelled defiantly.
“Try and stop us twerp!” Jack yelled back as he threw a Pokeball towards them. “Go Scyther!”
FLASH!
A green bug Pokemon with large scythe-like claws appeared.
“Scyyyyyyther!” it screamed.
Mike pointed his Pokedex at the Scyther:

Pokedex Data Download: Scyther: The pre-evolved form of Scizor. This bug type Pokemon has deadly scythe-like claws, and can use its ninja-like agility and speed to create the illusion that there is more than one of them.

Jessica also threw a Pokeball, and from it emerged what looked like an over sized bee with huge stingers.
“Beeeeeeeeeeedrill!” it yelled.
It was a Beedrill!
Mike turned his Pokedex towards the Beedrill:

Pokedex Data Download: Beedrill: The evolved form of Kakuna. These aggressive bee-like Pokemon attack in large swarms and use their sharp stingers to poison their enemies.

A Scyther and a Beedrill? This is going to be tough, Mike thought.
“Do you actually think you can capture a Pokemon Centre with only two Pokemon?” Mike asked with a laugh. “Dream on Team Rocket! Charmander I choose you!” Mike hurled his Pokeball towards the Scyther and Charmander emerged, its tail blazing.
“Two fire Pokemon are stronger than one,” Pyra said “Go Vulpix!” she cried as she threw her Pokeball towards the Beedrill.
“Scyther use your slash attack on that fire lizard!” Jack ordered.
Mike waited until Scyther was just in front of Charmander, then he called out “Alright Charmander, jump and use you Ember attack!” Charmander leaped into the air above Scyther and hit him on the head with his fiery tail, knocking Scyther to the ground.
“Get up you worthless Pokemon!” Jack yelled. “Use Swords Dance!”
Scyther began to spin round at an incredible speed, forcing Charmander to back away.
“Don’t let that bug scare you Charmander, use Fireball!” Charmander shot a fiery ball at Scyther which hit it square in the face, stunning it.
“Good job Charmander!” Mike yelled.
“Forget the Pokemon, Beedrill!” Jessica shouted. “Aim for their trainers, use Poison Sting on the girl!” Beedrill shot dozens of small needles from its tail towards Pyra.
Mike jumped in front of Pyra and braced himself for the impact; but all he felt was a wave of heat fly passed him. Confused, Mike glanced up to see what had happened.
Standing in front of him was a two feet high orange lizard with a blazing tail. Charmander! A Pokemon that he had only met a few hours ago had just saved his life! Mike couldn’t believe how loyal Charmander was. But then again, hadn’t he acted in the same way by risking his own life to save Pyra?
Coming to his senses, he noticed that Team Rocket’s Pokemon had been knocked out by Vulpix’s Tackle attack. Mike took a step forward and said “I think it’s time you guys hit the road Team Rocket. Pyra?” he looked at the girl he had saved. She nodded.
“Charmander!” Mike shouted.
“Vulpix!” Pyra yelled.
“Flamethrower!” They cried in unison.
Two streams of flame shot out from each Pokemon, hitting Team Rocket at exactly the same time. As soon as the two Flamethrower attacks collided, there was a small explosion that sent Team Rocket and their Pokemon flying through the roof of the Pokemon Centre and blasting through the night sky into the far distance.

[Phoenix004]

When Team Rocket finally landed in the middle of Viridian Forest, Jessica yelled “That kid has some nerve! I don’t care if he is the son of the Champion, no-one insults Team Rocket like that!”
“Those stupid twerps won’t be laughing when we steal all there Pokemon!” Jack boasted.
“Then it’s agreed,” Meowth said. “We won’t rest until we steal those twerps’ Pokemon!” (Author’s note: I know what you’re thinking. Don’t worry!)
“Yeah and nothing’s gonna stand in our way!” Jack cried.
“I’m not so sure about that Jack,” Jessica said, pointing behind him.
Jack turned around and found himself face to face with a group of twenty Primeape.
“PRIMEAPE!” The Primeape charged at them with their fists raised.
“AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!” Team Rocket’s terrified screams could be heard echoing through out the whole forest that night.

[Phoenix004]

Chapter 3: Mike’s first capture and battle.

“I’m really sorry about the roof Nurse Joy,” Mike apologised.
“Don’t worry about it Mike,” said Nurse Joy, smiling. “Things could have been a lot worse if you weren’t here. I’ll go and give Charmander and Vulpix a quick check up.” The Pokemon followed Joy into a room.
Pyra turned to Mike. “Why? Why would you risk your own life to save me?” she asked.
Mike sighed. “If I hadn’t asked you to come here with me, you wouldn’t have been in any danger in the first place.”
Pyra nodded. It seemed like a reasonable explanation, but she got the feeling that he wasn’t telling her something. She shrugged it off.
Nurse Joy returned with their Pokemon and suggested that they stayed the night; they agreed and went to find rooms.

*
The next morning they set off through the Viridian Forest, on their way to Pewter City. In Pewter City they would find the first Pokemon Gym of the Indigo League. The leader of this Gym just so happened to be one of Mike’s best friends, Jake Stone. His father was Brock Stone, a world famous Pokemon Breeder and Ash Ketchum’s best friend.
Pyra had decided to travel with Mike, as she had also decided to collect the Gym badges and enter in the Pokemon League to prove her skills as a Fire Pokemon trainer.
They had been travelling through the forest for ten minutes, when suddenly a small almost rabbit/like Pokemon with a horn on its head, leaped out of a bush and started pawing the ground softly in preparation for a Tackle attack.
“At last a Pokemon!” Mike cried as he got out his Pokedex:

Pokedex Data Download: Nidoran Male: This Poison type Pokemon will stiffen its ears if it senses danger. The larger its horn, the more venom it secretes. The Nidoran is very strong for its size, and is a perfect addition to any beginning trainer’s team.

“Yes! It’s is time for me to catch my first Pokemon! Charmander I choose you!” Mike yelled excitedly as he threw Charmander’s Pokeball in the direction of the Nidoran.
“Charmander!” Charmander exploded from the Pokeball in a flash of light.
“Alright Charmander, Tackle attack!” Mike ordered. Charmander charged at Nidoran, and sent it flying into a tree. But Nidoran wasn’t giving up. It quickly recovered its self and shot a dozen sharp needles at Charmander.
“Watch out for that Poison Sting Charmander! Counter it with a Fireball attack!” Charmander fired a ball of flame at the needles which deflected them easily. Nidoran started to run into the forest.
“Quick Charmander!” Mike cried. “Use Flamethrower before Nidoran gets away!”
“Chaaaaaar!” Charmander unleashed a powerful Flamethrower attack, which stopped Nidoran in its tracks, leaving its skin burnt black.
“Now’s my chance,” Mike told himself. “Pokeball go!” Mike hurled a Pokeball at the unconscious Pokemon, and the Nidoran disappeared inside. The Pokeball shook once… twice… three times… and then stopped shaking.
“Alright!” Mike yelled. “I caught it! I caught a Nidoran!”
Mike started jumping up and down and cheering to celebrate what he called “the first caught Pokemon of a future Pokemon Master!”
“Well done Mike!” said Pyra happily.
Mike stopped shouting and blushed when he saw that Pyra’s face was full of pride.
“Thanks Pyra,” he thanked her. “And you too Charmander!”
“Char!” Mike’s Pokemon replied happily.
Mike returned Charmander to its Pokeball and then released Nidoran from his.
Nidoran looked a bit worn out so Mike sprayed it with a Potion, this seemed to do the trick because Nidoran looked much happier.
“It’s nice to meet you Nidoran,” Mike greeted it kindly. “I’m Mike and I’m your trainer!”
“Nidoran!” it squeaked with joy.
Mike laughed.
“Well it seems Nidoran isn’t going to be hard to control,” he said with relief. He remembered his Dad telling him about how disobedient his Charizard had been when he was a rookie trainer.
It was Pyra’s voice that brought him to his senses.
“I’m not so sure about that Mike,” she said worriedly as she pointed at Nidoran which was now walking towards a nearby tree.
Mike was about to question his Nidoran, when suddenly, a small blue Pokemon with similar features to Mike’s Nidoran, jumped out from behind the tree.
“Whoa, another one!” Mike yelled excitedly as he took out his Pokedex:

Pokedex Data Download: Nidoran Female: Although this Poison type Pokemon is small, its venomous barbs make this Pokemon just as deadly as the Male, despite its smaller horn.

“Great!” Mike yelled. “Now I can…”
“Hold it Mike!” Pyra interrupted as she grabbed a Pokeball from her belt. “This one is mine!” She hurled the Pokeball into the air, and Cyndaquil emerged.
“Cynda!” it squeaked determinedly. Realising that he hadn’t yet checked Cyndaquil’s data, Mike reached for his Pokedex.

Pokedex Data Download: Cyndaquil: the fire mouse Pokemon. Wild Cyndaquil are generally very timid, and many will curl up into a ball at any sign of danger. If threatened, it can flare up the flame on its back for protection.

“Okay Cyndaquil, let’s show ‘em what you’ve got!” she yelled. “Swift attack!”
Cyndaquil fired a dozen small stars from its mouth which hit the Nidoran Female dead-on, causing it to retaliate with a Tackle.
“Cyndaquil, use Agility to dodge!”
Cyndaquil began to sprint around the arena, dodging Nidoran’s attacks, and trying to light its flame.
“Cyndaquil hit it hard with a Quick attack!”
Cyndaquil ran at top speed towards the Nidoran, hitting it hard in the chest. However, just as Nidoran was recovering, the flame on Cyndaquil’s back lit up!
“Alright! Cyndaquil, finish it with a Flamethrower!”
Cyndaquil shot a burst of red-hot flame which scorched the Nidoran.
“Great job Cyndaquil,” Pyra said with a smile. “Go Pokeball!”
Pyra’s Pokeball flew towards the Nidoran and sucked it inside. It shook once…twice…three times…

[Raddstealth316]

I like this story, good job, i hope to read more soon. :smile:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks Dap! It's good to know people still read and appreciate my story. I'd hate to disappoint you... so I'll be posting more later today!

[Sixto]

Awesome job Phoenix004! I'm liking what I'm reading, keep up the great work!

[Phoenix004]

The Pokeball stopped shaking. The female Nidoran had been captured.
“YES!!!” Pyra cried as she picked up the Pokeball. “Now I have my very own Nidoran!” She started to hug Cyndaquil, but was interrupted as a large man wearing shiny armour leaped out of the bushes wielding a Samurai sword.
Seeing Pyra in danger caused Mike to leap into action, jumping forward and kicking the stranger in his unprotected knee-cap. The man fell to the ground screaming in pain and clutching his bruised knee.
“Why did you attack us?!” Mike demanded angrily. The man slowly stood up.
“My name is Samurai and I am the guardian of this forest,” he said. “I also battle beginning trainers from Pallet who pass through here. I was only trying to make a dramatic entrance.” He added bitterly.
“Oh, sorry!” Mike replied, embarrassed. “But if you’re looking for a rookie trainer then I can help you there. I’m Mike Ketchum, from Pallet Town and…”
“The son of Ash Ketchum, the Pokemon Master?!” he cried. He grabbed Mike’s hand and shook it vigorously. “I have been looking forward to this day for a very long time.”
“You have?” Mike asked, puzzled.
“Why yes! I actually battled your father when he was your age as a matter of fact!” he told Mike excitedly.
“Who won?” Mike asked.
“I guess you could say it was a draw,” Samurai replied. “But I always knew he’d go far.” Samurai started staring into empty space and spotted Pyra. “And who might this pretty young lady be?” he asked. Pyra blushed.
“I’m Pyra Flames of Cinnabar Island,” she answered as she returned her Cyndaquil.
“So how about that battle Samurai?” Mike challenged, diverting Samurai’s attention from Pyra.
“Challenge accepted!” replied Samurai as he grabbed a Pokeball from his belt. “One-on-one okay?”
“That’s fine with me,” said Mike. “Go Nidoran!” Nidoran stopped sniffing a nearby tree and ran to Mike’s side. It looked ready for battle.
“Go Butterfree!” Samurai shouted. A large butterfly with big white wings appeared.
“Freeeee!” it cried.
“Whoa, cool Butterfree!” Mike said. “I better check the Pokedex.” Mike took out his Pokedex and pointed it at Butterfree:

Pokedex Data Download: Butterfree: This butterfly Pokemon is the evolved form of Metapod, the cocoon Pokemon. In battle, Butterfree will flap its wings at high speed, releasing toxic dust into the air. This dust can be used to poison, paralyse, or put an enemy to sleep.

“Be careful Nidoran!” Mike warned. “Use Poison Sting!”
Nidoran fired dozens of tiny needles towards Butterfree.
“Butterfree, counter it with Whirlwind!” ordered Samurai.
Butterfree flapped its wings rapidly, causing a powerful gale to blow the tiny needles harmlessly into the bushes.
“This thing is tougher than I thought,” Mike muttered. “Okay Nidoran, try a Horn attack!”
Nidoran charged at Butterfree with its horn raised, but just as Nidoran had leapt into the air, Butterfree flew up higher, just out of Nidoran’s reach.
“Uh-oh!” Mike had just realised his mistake in sending Nidoran against a flying Pokemon. Nidoran couldn’t even reach Butterfree!
“Butterfree, Tackle it!” Samurai called out.
Butterfree flew towards the ground at high speed and collided with Nidoran, causing it considerable damage.
“Nidoran, are you okay buddy?” Mike asked.
Nidoran was still on its feet, it wasn’t down yet.
“Butterfree, Stun Spore!”
“Nidoran dodge it!”
Unfortunately, Nidoran didn’t have time to react, as a cloud of orange dust stunned him into paralysis.
“Another Tackle attack Butterfree!” Samurai yelled.
Butterfree swooped down tackled the defenceless Nidoran. The attack shook off the paralysis, but Nidoran was in a bad way. It wouldn’t last much longer. Mike would have to think of something fast if he was going to win this battle.
Think Mike, think, he told himself. There has to be a way of reaching Butterfree…
“Butterfree! Finish it off! Take Down!” Samurai called for the finishing blow.
Butterfree started powering towards the ground at top speed, preparing to take out Nidoran. Butterfree was closing in on its target, when Mike suddenly had an idea.
“Nidoran jump now!” Mike yelled.
“WHAT?!” Samurai cried.
Nidoran leaped into the air split second before Butterfree would have made contact, and landed on Butterfree’s back!
“Nidoran Bite it!”
Nidoran sunk its teeth into Butterfree’s wing, caused it to flinch in pain. Butterfree started to fall.
“Jump off Nidoran!” Mike ordered. Nidoran dived to the ground just before Butterfree hit.
“Butterfree, can you stand?” Samurai asked.
Butterfree slowly struggled to its feet.
“Quick Nidoran!” Mike cried. “Tackle!”
Nidoran trampled towards Butterfree tackled it, sending it hurtling into a nearby tree, knocking out Butterfree.
Mike stared in shock for a few seconds and then smiled.
“WAHOO!” he yelled. He ran up to his Nidoran and hugged it. “I JUST WON MY FIRST REAL POKEMON BATTLE!”
As Mike was celebrating his victory, Samurai returned his Butterfree and smiled. Seems like he’ll go as far as his Father; maybe even further…
“I concede defeat,” Samurai said, bowing. “I feel no shame in losing to the son of the Champion.”
“Thanks Samurai,” Mike said as he shook hands with the strange ninja. “We should battle again one day.”
“I look forward to it Mike,” Samurai said.
Mike affectionately petted his Nidoran on the head and grinned.
“Great first battle Nidoran, return!” Mike’s Pokeball de-solidified Nidoran and sucked it inside.
“I’m afraid I must go now Mike,” Samurai apologised. “The Beedrill in this forest have been acting very strangely lately, they’re completely out of control! It’s not a good idea to hang around.” With that said, Samurai leaped behind a nearby tree, and disappeared into the shadows.
“Out of control Beedrill?!” The note of hysteria was clear in Pyra’s voice.

[Phoenix004]

Chapter 4: Facing the impossible.

“I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about,” Mike tried to reassure her as they continued on there way through the forest. “After all, we’ve been in here quite awhile now and we haven’t seen a single Weedle! Let alone a swarm of enraged Beedrill!”
“You’re probably right Mike,” Pyra replied. “And besides, my Fire Pokemon can easily fry a couple of Beedrill.”
Pyra was actually a lot less sure of herself than she sounded. The memory of the previous night’s encounter with Team Rocket was still troubling her. What if a whole swarm of Beedrill attack us? She thought nervously. What if we can’t send out our Pokemon in time? What if Mike tries to protect me again? What if he gets hit? What if he…? Pyra shook her head furiously to erase the terrible thoughts from her mind. Don’t think about it Pyra, she told herself. Don’t think about what could… “Pyra? Are you okay?” Pyra looked up see Mike staring down at her, his eyes flashing with concern.
Pyra forced a smile to form on her face.
“I’m fine Mike,” she lied. “Just feeling a little tired from last night I guess.”
Mike nodded and smiled sympathetically acting like he believed her, but Mike was very experienced at spotting lies and bluffs. His Father had always told him “to be a good trainer, you not only have to study Pokemon, but their trainers as well.” Mike knew what Pyra was really worried about.
“Well now’s as good a time as any to stop and take a break,” Mike said as he sat down on a fallen tree and took two bottles of Mt. Moon Spring Water from his backpack and handed one to Pyra. He then took out a selection of sandwiches and shared them with Pyra.
Twenty minutes later, after they had eaten and drunk their fill, they continued on the route through Viridian Forest. Both of them keeping a watchful eye on the surrounding woods. So far however, the woods had been completely silent.
“I told you there was nothing to worry about,” Mike said.
“Yeah I guess you were right Mike,” Pyra replied. A feeling of relief washed over her. “I mean, if there was a swarm of deranged bugs flying around I think we would have noticed.”
A rustling sound came from the trees and bushes surrounding them.
“Maybe we spoke to soon,” Mike said worriedly.
“It was probably just the wind,” Pyra replied with a nervous laugh. “Except that there isn’t any wind is there?”
“Beedrill!”
An entire swarm of Beedrill flew out from behind the bushes and buzzed angrily. There had to be at least two dozen of them; more than they had any hope of fighting.
“Oookaaaaaaaay…” Mike said. “All we have to do is very slowly back away, and then…RUN!!!”
So they ran… straight into a swarm of strange flying/bug Pokemon with large claws.
“Jssssssssssk!” they screeched loudly.
“What the hell are those things Mike?!” Pyra had to shout over the buzzing.
Mike took his Pokedex out of his pocket and opened it up to check the bug’s Pokedex data.

Pokedex Data Download: Ninjask: Ninjask are hostile and extremely difficult to train. If they are not trained properly, they will ignore orders and screech loudly. Because of this quality, this Pokemon is said to be one that puts a trainer’s abilities to the test.

Mike glanced at the Ninjask. There must have been just as many Ninjask as there were Beedrill. They were surrounded and completely outnumbered. Based on their current situation, their chance of escape was approximately… zero.
“Pyra?” Mike asked.
“Yeah Mike?” Pyra replied.
“Remember when you said that your Pokemon could easily fry a few bugs?” Mike questioned.
“Is that a rhetorical question?” Pyra asked hopefully.
“But surely what you actually meant was ‘my Pokemon can easily fry A LOT of bugs’ wasn’t it?”
“I’m afraid not Mike.”
“Well in that case we’ll just have to send everything we’ve got,” Mike told her calmly as he grabbed two Pokeballs from his belt.
“Do you think that there is any chance of us getting out of this Mike?” Pyra clutched her three Pokeballs in her hands.
Mike sighed. Then, surprisingly, he smiled at a distant memory.
“Someone once told me ‘Follow your heart, and you can achieve anything.’”
“Who told you that?” Pyra asked curiously.
“My father said that to me a few years ago after I had nearly convinced myself to forget Pokemon training because I could never beat him,” Mike told her. “He told me that to try and change my mind.”
“Did it work?” Pyra asked, despite knowing the answer. She needed to hear it.
Mike smiled encouragingly at her.
“It convinced me then, and it’s convinced me now,” Mike said. “Now let’s barbeque some bugs!”
“Vulpix, Cyndaquil, Nidoran…”
“Charmander, Nidoran…”
“GO!” they shouted in unison.
Five red/white spheres flew through the air, and released five bursts of light, which formed Mike and Pyra’s Pokemon.

[Tidus24]

Will appear more Hoenn Pokemon and Johto Pokemon, or only Kanto pokemon? :cool:

[Phoenix004]

I will use a variety of Kanto, Johto, and Hoenn Pokemon. Now here's more:

Nidoran female: Looking small and cute but ready for anything these bugs could throw at her. Prepared to make every last drop of venom count.

Cyndaquil: Although Dex called it a “Fire mouse” there was nothing harmless about this flaming hedgehog. Get on its bad side, and you’ll find that fiery quills equal a fiery temper.

Vulpix: Its six bushy tails were as hard as daggers, and although Vulpix is very cute, it can still release flames hot enough to melt small rocks.

Nidoran male: Tiny but deadly would be the most accurate way of describing this tough little critter. He pawed the ground and raised his horn menacingly.

Charmander: The hottest and coolest of all lizards; and more than capable of proving it with a couple of Flamethrower attacks. If Charmander was going down, he was gonna roast a few bugs before he did.

Together they were small, yet powerful, fighting force. If they had been facing a swarm of Bug Pokemon of a similar size, they could have won quite easily.
Unfortunately for them, they were facing them an army of at least twenty or thirty giant, grotesque bugs; each one capable of slicing down a tree in a single blow. In other words… they didn’t stand a chance!!!
It’s a good thing mum’s not here, she’d be hysterical with all these bugs around, Mike thought glumly.
“Ready Mike?” Pyra asked.
Mike put on a brave face.
“Let’s roast some bugs!” Mike said with a smile.
*
“Alright guys!” Mike yelled. “Charmander, Nidoran, use…!”
Before Mike could finish giving commands, the Beedrill and Ninjask charged towards them!
“Mike look out!” Pyra screamed.
Mike grabbed Pyra’s hand; and together they ran for the edge of the clearing. Their Pokemon weren’t far behind. They reached safety just before the tidal wave of bugs collided. Mike and Pyra sighed with relief. The insane insects seemed completely oblivious to Mike, Pyra, and their Pokemon. They had more than enough targets to be getting on with.
“Looks like the Beedrill and Ninjask weren’t attacking us after all,” Pyra pointed out. “They were fighting each other!”
“I guess that explains why the Beedrill have been acting strange lately; Samurai said they were going a bit crazy.” Mike said, remembering the ninja’s words.
“Maybe we can sneak away without attracting any of them,” Pyra suggested.
No sooner had Pyra said this, than a Rattata ran out from the bushes behind them and, clearly not looking where it was going, ran head-first into Charmander.
“Rattata!” the small purple rodent screamed in terror as it sprinted back into the bushes.
The Beedrill and Ninjask halted their confrontation long enough to notice a boy, a girl, and five Pokemon in the corner of the clearing. Under normal circumstances, the enraged bugs would have attacked, but they were in the middle of a war which would decide on the sole rulers of Viridian forest, now was not the time to fight humans. Except perhaps, humans who happened to be standing next to the Beedrill and Ninjask nest trees…
The Beedrill raised their venomous stingers, and the Ninjask raked the air with their vicious claws. Just as Mike and Pyra were about to leave the clearing, the Beedrill, buzzing with intense rage, charged! The agitated Ninjask were not far behind.
Charmander and the others leapt into action, releasing a barrage of Flamethrower and Poison sting at the oncoming bugs. Mike and Pyra’s Pokemon fought with all their strength, but no matter how many Beedrill and Ninjask they took down, there was always more to replace them. The Beedrill and Ninjask were slowly but surely beginning to overpower them; the bugs would soon be victorious.
We can’t keep this up, Mike thought in despair. We can’t win.
Perhaps Mike would have thought differently if he had seen what was twenty metres to his right behind a certain tree. A young man dressed in an all black jumpsuit, was observing their every move. He was holding a Pokeball…

[Phoenix004]

Starting to think I'd forgotten you eh? Not a chance! Here's Chapter 5:

Chapter 5: A Miraculous rescue?

“We need to come up with a battle strategy,” Pyra said. Their Pokemon were still repelling the oncoming bugs, but only just. Unless they came up with a plan soon, they were all in deep trouble.
“You’re right there Pyra,” Mike agreed as he avoided a nearby Beedrill. “Any suggestions?”
Pyra started to shake her head when an idea suddenly popped into her head.
“‘Type Tactics,’” she repeated a phrase her sister had once told her.
“What?” Mike looked bewildered.
Pyra called out to her Pokemon. “Vulpix, Cyndaquil, concentrate your Flamethrower attacks on the Beedrill. Nidoran, focus your Poison sting on the Ninjask!”
Pyra’s Pokemon swiftly obeyed her commands as Pyra herself turned to Mike and advised him to take the same course of action with his Pokemon. Mike followed her advice, ordering Charmander to attack the Beedrill and Nidoran to fight the Ninjask, but was still puzzled. His confusion must have showed on his face.
“Beedrill are Bug/Poison type,” Pyra explained. “So Fire type Pokemon are super effective, and…”
“I knew that!” Mike said defensively.
Pyra caught his eye and smiled at him.
She has a nice smile… Mike thought dreamily. Pyra then continued to talk, snapping Mike out of his daydream.
“… from the look of the Ninjask, I’d say they’re a Bug/Flying type,” She paused for a moment to see that the battle was moving in their favour again. “That means that they’d be weak to Fire types as well, but because the Beedrill are part Poison, our Nidorans’ Poison sting attacks won’t be as effective. However since Ninjask aren’t part Poison type, Poison sting will be super effective against them.” Pyra concluded smugly.
Mike just stared at Pyra as if he had never seen her before. She had never told him that she knew so much about Pokemon, though he should probably have known that. After all, she did have a Gym Leader for a sister, and her grandfather used to be Gym Leader too.
Must run in the family, Mike thought with a smile.
“You’re amazing Pyra!” Mike yelled. “You’ve saved us! I think it’s really turned this fight around for us. Look at the…” Mike froze as the three Ninjask nearest to him, glowed white. And as they stopped glowing, the three bugs became nine. Mike cursed under his breath.
“Oh hell! Double team!” he groaned. Mike recognised the attack from the League Tournaments he’d seen on TV.
Pyra tried to look on the positive side.
“At least only three of them have…”
Right on cue, the remaining Ninjask all began to glow before their very eyes, and a few seconds later, there were three times as many Ninjask in the battle.
“Ah…” Pyra sighed. “This could be a problem.”
What was left of the battle area was littered with the unconscious bodies of Beedrill and Ninjask (mostly Beedrill); however, most of the Ninjask were still in action (all using Double team).
Charmander, Cyndaquil, Vulpix, and the two Nidoran, were still in shape to battle too, but the fatigue was clearly showing on their battered bodies. They unleashed their powerful attacks at the bugs, in a final desperate attempt to force back the wave of insane insects.
Some of the Beedrill taken down, but the Ninjask continued to charge, unfazed by the blasts. Occasionally one or two of the attacks got through, but only the illusionary Ninjask were hit. The real Ninjask were completely unaffected.
Once again, the Ninjask began to close the gap between the young trainers and their Pokemon. Slowly but surely, Charmander and the others were being forced backwards.
“There must be something we can do!” Pyra cried despairingly. Pyra expected Mike to reply with some form of encouragement; and perhaps he would have if he had heard a word she’d said.
Mike hadn’t heard Pyra because he was gazing intently at a group of trees twenty metres to his right. Was it his imagination playing tricks on him? Or had he really seen a small flash of light come from behind one of those trees?
You’re imagining it Mike, he told himself. Who would be out in the middle of this forest at this very moment, just as we need to be rescued? What are the odds of that?
What Mike didn’t know, was that the strange man in the black jumpsuit hadn’t just appeared when they needed him. He had in fact been following them ever since Mike and Pyra had first entered the forest.
“Mike!” Pyra yelled, interrupting his thoughts. “They’re trapped!” She pointed towards their Pokemon. They were all beginning to collapse from exhaustion, and were surrounded by the deadly bugs.
“What can we do Mike?” Pyra asked.
“The only thing we can do,” Mike admitted. He took two Pokeballs from his belt. “Retreat.” He returned Nidoran and Charmander to their Pokeballs.
Pyra started to object, but then she noticed how badly beaten her Pokemon were. She changed her mind, and decided to accept defeat gracefully. Her sister had always told her “Grace is the acceptance of the inevitable.” It seems that she was right, at least in this situation.
“Vulpix, Cyndaquil, Nidoran, return!” Three red beams of light shot past the remaining Beedrill and Ninjask, and absorbed the three Pokemon back into their Pokeballs.
If anything, the Beedrill and Ninjask were even angrier. They felt as if they had been cheated out of finishing off the Pokemon. The furious bugs turned their heads towards Mike and Pyra. They stared at the young trainers as a cat would stare at a mouse before pouncing. The look of a predator locating its prey. In the time it would have taken Mike or Pyra to blink, the enraged bugs had changed course and streamed towards them at high speed.
In the last few seconds before the wave of bugs collided, Mike decided that he had to say something. He had to tell her.
“Pyra? There’s something I need to tell you before…” he started.
“Please don’t say anything Mike,” Pyra interrupted. “I know you probably mean well, but anything you say will sound like ‘goodbye,’ and I don’t want it all to end like this.”
“I understand Pyra,” Mike tried to force himself not to look disappointed.
Pyra saw straight through the pretence. She stepped closer to Mike, and took his hand in hers. Mike smiled at her kindness, despite the fact he believed it to be only out of pity.
So this is how it ends, Mike thought miserably. Even if I did see someone in the woods just then, it would be too late to save us now…
Will anyone ever find out what happened to us? Pyra wondered. She thought of how her family would react to hear the news of her death. It was not a happy picture. She shuddered.
The murderous insects were closing in on them. Ten metres! Nine! Eight… Seven… Six… Five… Four… Three…

BOOM!!!

A huge orange beam of incredibly powerful raw energy blasted out from the trees to their right! It hit the bugs dead centre, taking them all out in a single blow. The shock wave also knocked out Mike and Pyra, lifted them off their feet, and hurled them back several feet.
Had they been conscious, Mike and Pyra would have seen a shadowy figure of a man, along with a dinosaur-like Pokemon, escaping into the dark depths of the forest…

[Phoenix004]

You guys will be happy to hear that the post after this one will be all new never before seen Chapters of Mike Ketchum's Pokemon Journey!

The Beedrill and Ninjask were slowly circling Mike and Pyra, the battered bodies of their Pokemon lay still on the forest grass…
The bugs charged at them without warning, they were head for Mike…
Pyra tried to run towards Mike, but her sister was holding her back, laughing as Pyra struggled against her strong grip…
The bugs were closing in on Mike now; the Beedrill raised their lethal stingers and the Ninjask sliced the air with their fierce scythes…
Pyra could only watch helplessly as the nearest Ninjask raised its claw in triumph, brought it swishing down towards Mike’s head, and then…

Pyra woke up, her body rigid with fear. Her eyes snapped open. If anyone had been watching, they would have seen the cold terror in her eyes. The memory of the end of her terrible nightmare flooded her now conscious mind. Pyra gasped in horror.
“Pyra?”
Pyra looked up to see Mike’s concerned face gazing down at her. She sighed with relief and a warm joy filled her heart as she noticed that Mike was okay. It had all been a dream.
“You’re alright!” Mike yelled as Pyra stood up, unharmed. Mike flung his arms around her and hugged her for several seconds, before he quickly withdrew, his face blushing with embarrassment.
Pyra, her face turning a deep scarlet, glanced at the empty clearing and…
“Where did all the bugs go Mike?” Pyra asked curiously.
Mike shrugged.
“I don’t know,” he said. “But I’m betting that whoever fired that orange blast has something to do with the missing Beedrill and Ninjask.”
“If someone did save us, then where did they go?” Pyra asked.
“I…” Mike started to reply, but suddenly remembered the flash of white light he had seen during the battle.
That flash! Mike thought. It looked like a Pokemon being released from its Pokeball!
“Mike? What is it?” Pyra asked.
Mike walked over to a group of trees at the edge of the clearing.
“During the battle, I saw a flash of light behind these trees,” Mike told her as he approached the trees. “And I’m pretty sure that blast came from over here too.”
Pyra followed Mike and together they stared in confusion at a small backpack concealed behind the tree. Mike picked up the bag, opened it, and examined the contents.
“Five Super Potions, and five packs of Pokemon food,” Mike informed Pyra. “That’s a potion and a bag of food for each of our Pokemon.”
“Whoever it was must have been following us!” Pyra exclaimed.
Mike nodded thoughtfully.
“Yeah, but who?” he asked.
“And why?” Pyra added.
It was getting dark so they decided to set up camp for the night.
“We must have been unconscious for quite a while,” Mike pointed out as he started to make a fire out of the dry wood he had found.
“Yeah…” Pyra agreed. “The person who saved us…I wonder where she is now.”
“Or he,” Mike corrected her.
Pyra shrugged.
“Whoever it was is probably miles away by now…”
Little did they know, they were still being watched…

[Phoenix004]

Finally the brand new, never seen before script of MKPJ! I would really appreciate the feedback thank you! Did any of you guess the mystery man's Pokemon? You're all about to find out!

Chapter 6: Feathered fiends!

Cloaked in the shadows of the forest, a young man in a black jumpsuit, his eyes concealed by a pair of sunglasses, observed the two young trainers as they healed their Pokemon with the Super Potions he had left for them to find.
The man turned to look at his own Pokemon. It was dark in colour, and had the look of a fearsome prehistoric Dinosaur. It was this Pokemon which had fired the devastating Hyper beam attack which had completely obliterated the Beedrill and Ninjask.
“Tyranitar return,” he whispered as his Pokemon dissapeared into its Pokeball. The Pokeball had a black letter ‘S’ on the front. “Right, now to get down to business.” He pressed three buttons on a device on his wrist which resembled a digital watch. After pressing the third button, he began to speak quietly into the device.
“This is Agent Shadow Diver reporting in,” he whispered. “Two ‘Potential Targets’ have been acquired. Requesting direct link to Shadow Master.” There was a brief pause.
“This is Shadow Operational Control Centre,” a computerised feminine voice replied. “Your link has been accepted.”
“Make this quick Shadow Diver,” Shadow Master’s voice called out from the ‘Watch Communicator.’
“Sir, your idea of releasing Ninjask into the Viridian forest has finally been a success,” Shadow Diver informed his boss. “Two young trainers, a boy and a girl, and their Pokemon managed to fight off all of the Beedrill and the Ninjask!”
“And, you did not aide their victory?” Shadow Master asked.
“Not at all,” Shadow Diver lied. “If I had assisted them, I would not have reported them to you.”
“Powerful they must be,” Shadow Master commented. “Have you identified them?”
“According to the Database,” Shadow Diver said. “The girl is Pyra Flames of Cinnabar Island –”
“The Gym Leader’s sister?” Shadow Master interrupted. He seemed more interested now.
“The very same,” Shadow Diver continued. “And the boy is none other than Mike Ketchum of –”
“WHAT!?” his voice bellowed from the communicator. “THE SON OF ASH KETCHUM!? THE POKEMON MASTER!?”
“Correct.” Shadow Diver smiled.
“Good work, Shadow Diver,” Shadow master finally managed to regain his composure. “I’m putting you down for immediate transfer; you are to be re-assigned to keep watch on these young trainers.”
“Thank you sir,” Shadow Diver said gratefully. It wasn’t easy hanging around in the forest all day.
“However,” Shadow Master continued. “I want you to keep your distance; we don’t want you spotted before the time is right. And also; DO NOT interfere under any circumstances. Is that clear?”
“Perfectly clear sir,” Shadow Diver replied.
“Good. You will continue to send me your reports weekly, unless a situation arises.” Shadow Master ordered.
“Understood sir. Shadow Diver terminating link.” He pressed a button and his communication link to Shadow Master was disconnected.

[Tidus24]

It's an evil team?? Rival to Team Rocket?
They could be acquiring new trainers for their Team, Team Shadow is a good name :biggrin:

[Phoenix004]

Yes that is exactly what they are doing, recruiting. However, I didn't technically say they were called Team Shadow, but I guess it was kind of obvious. Thanks for the comments Tidus, please keep reading!

[Phoenix004]

The sun had barley risen above the horizon, when Mike’s eyes snapped open as he suddenly awoke from his troubled slumber. His sleep had been disturbed violent nightmares of the previous day.
Mike sat up in his sleeping bag, rubbed the sleep from his eyes, and looked at his watch. 6:30 am. Mike sighed, knowing he would never get back to sleep after a night of bad dreams. He was not an early riser by nature, but he found it very hard to get back to sleep after he had woken up.
Mike climbed out of his sleeping bag. Then, trying not to wake Pyra, he walked into the forest in search of fire wood.
*
Two hours later, Pyra woke to the smell of burning wood and fried eggs.
“I was wondering when you would wake up,” said a voice behind her. Pyra turned around to see Mike smiling at her.
“Hey, just cause’ you’re an early riser, doesn’t mean you can make fun of me!” Pyra whined.
“Actually I’m not really a morning person either,” Mike admitted. “I just woke up a little earlier than normal and decided to make breakfast.”
Pyra knew why he hadn’t got much sleep, and she really didn’t want to talk about it, so she thought it wise to change the subject.
“So…where did you learn to cook?” she asked.
“Well it was my mum who first taught me how to cook,” Mike explained. “But I’ve got much better at it since my Uncle Brock started teaching me.”
“Uncle Brock? Brock Stone?” Pyra guessed. “The famous Pokemon Breeder who went on a journey with your dad?”
“Yeah, he runs a Pokemon Breeding Centre in Pewter City.” Mike told her.
“The Gym Leader’s his son right?” Pyra enquired.
Mike’s eyes opened wide with surprise.
“How’d you know that?”
Pyra smiled at him.
“You seem to be forgetting the fact that I come from a family of Gym Leaders, it’s my family’s business to know when a Gym Leader is replaced.” She pointed out.
“I guess I wasn’t really thinking,” Mike grinned sheepishly. “I told you I’m not a morning person!”
“Well in that case, keep an eye on the stove,” Pyra said with a laugh. “I don’t want my eggs to burn!”
“Actually Pyra, it’s almost impossible for these eggs to burn,” Mike pointed out. “This stove automatically starts beeping once it reaches a certain temperature, so when I hear the beep; I just turn the stove off.”
“The wondrous miracles of modern technology,” Pyra said sarcastically. “So what’s the plan for today?” she asked, suddenly seriously.
Suddenly, from the depths of the silent forest came three loud battle cries.

“SPEAR!”
“HOOT!”
“PIDGE!”

“What the hell was that?” Mike cried.
“Let’s go find out!” Pyra yelled excitedly. She jumped to her feet, grabbed her backpack, and took off in the direction of the enraged cries.
Mike smiled as he picked up his own backpack and slung it over his shoulder.
“Well dad,” he said to himself. “I guess you were right again; Pokemon training is hard, but it’s more than worth it!” He began to race ahead to catch up to Pyra.
*
After about five minutes of constant running, Mike finally caught up with Pyra; and the source of the deafening cries.
“Holy…!” Mike exclaimed.
“What is this? A flying Pokemon convention?” Pyra demanded.
The reason for their shocked exclamations lay in the tries in front of them. A flock of nearly thirty varied bird Pokemon. The flock was a combination of Pidgey, Hoothoot, and Spearow. And not one of them, not even the “docile” Pidgey looked happy. Quite the opposite in fact; they were as outraged as the rest.

“PIDGE!”
“HOOT!”
“SPEAR!”

“Why are they acting like this?” Mike asked. He had to yell just to be heard over the noise of the furious birds.
“Whatever set them off must have really made them mad!” Pyra shouted over the screeching.
“Well I’m going to catch one!” Mike told her as he took a Pokeball from his belt and enlarged it.
“Are you sure that’s a good idea Mike?” Pyra questioned him. “They look mad enough already, I doubt now is the time to try and piss them off!”
For once, Mike ignored her. He hurled his Pokeball to the ground, and Charmander materialised in a flash of light.
“Char!” Charmander swung his blazing tail and growled menacingly.
“Charmander attack those birds with your Flamethrower!” Mike ordered.
“Char…man…der!” Charmander breathed in deeply before releasing a powerful blast of intense flame which shot towards the bird Pokemon at top speed.

“HOOT!”
“SPEAR!”
“PIDGE!”

The infuriated flying Pokemon screamed with ferocity, and began to flap their tiny, yet strong, wings creating a huge gale to blow through the clearing, kicking up large amounts of sand to blind the young trainers.
“What…are they…doing?” Mike gasped between coughs.
“I think it’s a Sand storm attack!” Pyra shouted through the cloud of sand. “I can’t see a thing!”
True, Mike silently agreed with her. But that also means that they can’t see us either…
Following the true Pokemon Master instinct, Mike grabbed an empty Pokeball from his belt, and hurled it blindly into the dirty swirling mass of gravel.
Whether it was destiny, fate, or simply luck, will never be known. But by whatever means, at the very moment Mike had thrown the Pokeball, another Pokemon, different from the birds which surrounded it flew into the clearing. It was tired, weakened by its earlier confrontation with the birds, and the immense Sand storm attack had left it confused and disorientated. It didn’t see the Pokeball until it was too late. The poor creature struggled as hard as it could, trying to break free…

[HondoomMaster]

You have done a great job on this fic, I can't wait to see what Pokemon Mike "accidently" caught. I thnik its a bug type though.

[trp9292]

You have done a great job on this fic, I can't wait to see what Pokemon Mike "accidently" caught. I thnik its a bug type though.
I think it is a pidgeotto like the one his dad caught.

[Tidus24]

It's a Taillow or Wingull?

[Neo Pikachu]

Ha, everyone's going to try and guess what he got...

Nice job Phoenix, the new chapters are awesome! Keep it up!

[KCash]

Well if i know Phoenix's story well enough, everytime you think its one thing it always ends up being something else so I'm not even going to try and guess it but I will say this story has really unfolded and now the characters and settings are really coming to place. This story just keeps getting better with every post and if that keeps happening then this story will unfold to be one of the greats. Awesome job Phoenix!

[Tamer Marco]

This is awesome! Keep it up!

[Phoenix004]

Thank you so much for all your comments everyone, they mean a lot to me and really inspire me to write more. I can't believe how many people have posted since I last came on. I promise to update soon, but until then, you can keep on guessing what Pokemon it is. Besides, you don't even know if Mike has caught it yet!
Thanks again everyone, please keep on reading and posting comments. I want to know exactly what you like about the story and its characters. See you guys soon!

[Phoenix004]

Hey I made it with 20 minutes before the deadline. I never break a promise! Here's some more of the exciting adventures of Mike and Pyra. (Sorry if it isn't very much). Has Mike caught the Pokemon, and if so, what is it? You are all about to find out! Well...the first part anyway! (Yes I know, I'm cruel!)

The Sand storm dispersed as suddenly as it had arrived, with nothing left but Mike, Pyra, Charmander, and a shaking Pokeball. All the Pidgey, Hoothoot, and Spearow, were long gone, having used the Sand storm as a distraction while they escaped into the depths of the forest.
“Looks like they escaped Mike,” Pyra said once the sand had died down. She brushed herself down and shook the sand out of her hair.
Mike was still gazing intently at the Pokeball, willing it not to open. The Pokemon inside finally gave up the fight; the Pokeball stopped shaking. Mike’s face opened up into a broad smile as he picked up his newly caught Pokemon.
“Yes!” he yelled excitedly. “I caught a…erm…I don’t know what it is!” he grinned sheepishly.
“Duh, you don’t know what it is because you can’t see through walls of sand!” Pyra pointed out.
“Well in that case…” Mike said as he raised the Pokeball. “How about we found out-”
“In a Pokemon battle!” a voice bellowed from the other side of the clearing.
Mike and Pyra both turned to see who had spoken and found themselves facing a boy wearing blue jeans and a metallic-grey shirt. He was slightly shorter than Mike, and about average build. The boy also had short black hair, and emerald green eyes; he looked to be about the same age as Mike and Pyra.
“Dan?” Mike wondered aloud. “Is that you?”
“It’s me Mike,” Dan replied. “Long time no see.”
“You know this guy?” Pyra asked.
“Oh sorry!” Mike said, grinning sheepishly. “Pyra this is Daniel Crono, but we call him Dan. He’s an old friend from Pallet; he took the Trainer’s test with me in Pallet Town the other day. Dan, this is Pyra Flames, she’s the sister of the Cinnabar Gym Leader.”
“Nice to meet you Dan,” Pyra greeted him kindly.
“Likewise,” he replied casually.
“You mentioned a battle Dan?” Mike challenged.
“Do you think you’re ready for it Mike?” Dan asked as he picked a Pokeball from his belt.
“I don’t think I am. I know I’m ready!” Mike declared confidently.
“How’s a three-on-three sound?”
“…er…” Mike hesitated. He had only just caught his third Pokemon, and he didn’t even know what it was yet! Still, there was no way he was going to refuse. “A three-on-three’s okay with me!” he replied after a moments silence. Mike returned Charmander, and placed both Charmander’s and his new Pokemon’s Pokeball on his belt. He then picked Nidoran’s Pokeball.
“Pokeball, go!” both trainers yelled as they each hurled a Pokeball at the ground.
FLASH! Mike’s Nidoran appeared. It growled and pawed the ground threateningly.
“Nidor!” it growled.
FLASH! Dan’s Pokemon materialised in a burst of light. It looked like a miniature red bug with a white belly; it was covered in small thorns. It had small pointed tail and a little horn on his head which were both yellow.
Mike reached for his Pokedex…

[Shadow]

this fic is real good pheonix, the suspense is killin me.
is dans pokemon a Wurmple? thats a red bug.
i cant wait to find out what mike caught, is it a Spearow?

[Dr Skottie]

Hey man this is awesome work! Its original, written well and the characters are believable. I'm lookin forward to the next post! :cool:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks so much you two, it's great to hear feedback once in a while. Even the big legends like Dr Skottie are giving me praise!
BTW Shadow, those are some pretty good guesses. They may be right, or they may not. You'll have to wait and see!
I'll try to update as soon as possible, but in the mean time everyone, feel free to post any comments, good or bad.
To those of you who have posted feedback, I thank you.

[KCash]

Geez, I hate reading cliff hangers. Hurry and post up the next part! We are all waiting on the edges of our seats!

Way to go on the story Phoenix, the story is doing better every post. Keep up the fantastic work!

[fire_turtle]

One word: Awsome. Everything about this fic is great! Keep up the great work!

[Phoenix004]

Thank you KCash and fire_turtle! All on the edge of your seats eh? In that case I'll have to post some more... later tonight! Sorry for making you guys wait so long during a cliffhanger, but I've been up to my ears in school work lately. I'll be able to post more often during the Easter holidays.
I promise to post a bit more later on, but I can't promise that it will be a large post.
To KCash- It's just like I said the other day. Cliffhangers: I hate reading them, but I love writing them!
To fire_turtle- One word: Thanks! I'm glad you like it so much, since I hope to be a professional author one day.
Please keep posting comments people!

[Phoenix004]

Sorry if it's not much, but I've had so much work lately. I'll get more done in the holiday. Please post any comments, and thanks for reading!

Chapter 7: Friendly fire!

Pokedex Data Download: Wurmple: the worm Pokemon. This spiky worm protects itself from predators with the poisonous spines with cover its body. Wurmple can evolve into one of two Pokemon; Silcoon or Cascoon.

Sounds pretty nasty, Mike thought. But I know Nidoran will pull through.
“Keep an eye out for those thorns Nidoran!” Mike warned his Pokemon. Nidoran looked Mike in the eye and nodded.
“Wurmple Tackle attack!” Dan commanded.
“Counter it with a Horn attack Nidoran!” Mike ordered.
Nidoran charged towards Wurmple with its pointed horn lowered to attack. Wurmple responded in kind, crawling at high speed to knock Nidoran down. The two Pokemon collided and both attacks made their mark; the impact sending them flying backwards. Nidoran was the first to recover from the blow and leapt up back onto all-fours, ready to attack again.
“Okay Nidoran, Tackle it before it can recuperate!” Mike yelled. Once again Nidoran charged towards Wurmple, hoping to catch it off guard.
“Tie it up with your String shot Wurmple!” Dan cried.
“Oh s**t!” Mike exclaimed as Wurmple shot a thick sticky web of silk at the oncoming Nidoran, stopping it in its tracks. “This is bad.”
“Time to wrap things up Wurmple,” Dan grinned. Mike sighed.
“Dan, buddy; you really need to work on some better material,” Mike pointed out mockingly.
“What do you ‘work on some better material?’” Dan demanded, pretending to be insulted. “I’m going to be a Pokemon Master not a comedian!”
“I’m glad to hear it,” Mike said. “Because from this side of the battle field, nothing looks very funny to me.” He made a pointed glance at his Nidoran, which was being constricted by the web-like adhesive. However, as Mike watched his helpless Nidoran being tormented by Wurmple, a plan began to form in his mind.
“My victory will be a great start on my way to becoming the Master!” Dan declared confidently.
“This match isn’t over yet buddy,” Mike replied with equal enthusiasm. “Nidoran, cut through the silk with your Poison sting!” he cried. Nidoran’s face was half covered by the sticky web when he fired off a barrage of toxic needles. The Poisonous pins sliced away most of the silk from his head and continued in the direction of the unfortunate worm which had tried to wrap up Nidoran like a Christmas present.
“WORM!” the bug screamed. Surprisingly loud considering its size. Fired off a volley of venomous stingers in retaliation.
“Nidoran Defence curl now!” Mike instructed. Nidoran curled up into a ball to protect itself from Wurmple’s own Poison sting. The miniature needles tore away the remaining silk which had still been attached to Nidoran. Mike’s Pokemon received minimal damage.
“Crap,” Dan muttered under his breath. He knew this was it.
“Nice work Nidoran. Now finish it with a Take down!” Mike called for the finishing blow.
Nidoran shot towards Wurmple like a bullet from a gun. The helpless insect was hit with such force that it was sent flying through the air and crashed into a nearby tree. It was definitely knocked out. Mike could almost imagine the Pidgeys hovering above its head.
“I guess round one goes to you Mike,” Dan accepted defeat gracefully. He returned his fainted Wurmple.
“Thanks Dan, I’m just hoping it stays that way.” Mike told him. Dan grinned devilishly.
“That’s highly unlikely…” He tossed another Pokeball into the battlefield.

[Neo Pikachu]

Nice job, that was a very descriptive battle! You're getting better and better at this Phoenix!

[Dr Skottie]

I love it Phoeinix! Keep it coming, my thirst for excellent reading mateiral needs to be quenched! Good job... :cool:

[Phoenix004]

Excellent reading material? Stop it Skottie you're making me blush!
I'll be posting some more either today or tomorrow.

[fire_turtle]

Pheonix, this is really good like I've said before. You should start posting it on www.fanfiction.net as well so more people have a chance to read it.

[Alakazam6845]

Aaah, so this is the fic you told me about! Guess who! It's me, Moltreken! Anyways, I can't wait for more chapters! Please update!

[Phoenix004]

Hi Moltreken! It's good to see you, what do you think of the fic so far?
Fireturtle, I may consider posting this on fanfcition.net. Some of the fics on there are pretty good. However, for the time being I will keep it on this forum only.
I realize that I am quite a bit over the deadline, but I will try to get some more posted ASAP. In the mean time, please keep posting comments!

[Alakazam6845]

I love it! It's AWESOME compared to a fic I'm working on. -_-p

[Phoenix004]

Okay guys, I know I'm way over the deadline, and I'm afraid this post is going to be pretty short. This post is in honour of Neo Pikachu's Birthday, which sadly will end in 15 minutes. Anyway, I'll try to update ASAP, so keep sending feedback please!

The Pokeball opened up in a flash of blinding white light revealing a small bird, with red, white, and black feathers, and a brown head. It also had a hooked beak and was glaring at Mike with a fierce look in its eyes. If looks could kill, then Mike would have made the trip to heaven and back ten times over.

Pokedex Data Download: Spearow: the angry bird Pokemon. This flying type Pokemon is much more aggressive than the often docile Pidgey, and very protective of their territory. Its wings are short, but it is very fast and its cry can be heard from over half a mile away.

Mike whistled.
“That is one mean looking bird,” Mike commented. “Think you can take it out Nidoran?”
Nidoran was panting slightly, but turned to Mike and nodded.
“Okay then Nidoran, Poison sting!”
“Fight back with Quick attack Spearow!”
Spearow streamed towards Nidoran and hit it hard before Nidoran had a chance to react. Nidoran fell to the ground.
“Can you still stand Nidoran?” Mike asked.
Nidoran slowly struggled to its feet and turned to face its formidable flying foe.
“Spearow, finish it with a Gust attack!” Dan called for the final blow.
Spearow began to flap its wings rapidly, causing a huge gale to blow through the trees and send Nidoran soaring. Mike knew before it even hit the ground, that it was lights out for Nidoran.
“Great job Nidoran, you deserve a rest.” Mike said as he called Nidoran back to its Pokeball. He then reached for the Pokeball containing his latest catch.
“Are you sure about that Mike?” Pyra asked incredulously. “You don’t even know what Pokemon that is.”
Mike nodded his head firmly.
“Now’s as good a time as any,” Mike was trying to convince himself as much as her. The fate of the battle depended on the performance of this new mystery Pokemon. “Go…whatever you are!” Mike hurled the red and white sphere into the battle field. The Pokeball exploded in a burst of white light; and from it emerged…

[fire_turtle]

You're joking right?!?!?!?!?!?! After all that waiting we still don't know what's in the pokeball?!?!?!?!?! Please update soon!

[Neo Pikachu]

Nice update, but what did Mike catch already? We're dying to know! I'd love to see more of this soon Phoenix! Keep up the good work!

[Horseystar]

Phoenix, this is probably the best fanfic I've read! Really good--I can't wait until you post again!!

[Phoenix004]

fire_turtle- Yes I am extremely cruel when it comes to cliffhangers!

Neo Pikachu- Thanks NP, I'll try to update ASAP. Can you guess what it is?

Horseystar- Wow! Thank you so much! I didn't realize my fic was going to be so popular!

I will hopefully be updating soon, so stay tuned!

[Tidus24]

You want us, to have a heart break :evil:
When's the anime,lol or BD, lol. :happy:
Don't stop posting in here :biggrin:

[Phoenix004]

Hey guys! I'm really sorry you had to wait so long on a cliff hanger, my writer's block got pretty bad the other day and I've had loads of work to do too. Please send feedback for this post. BTW, I know how much you all love cliff hangers! Hint hint! *Evil laugh*

… A small feathered bird Pokemon, with red, blue, and white feathers. It also had short stubby wings, and a pointed beak.

Pokedex Data Download: Tailow: the territorial bird Pokemon. This hostile bird is extremely territorial, and courageously stands its ground against foes, however strong they may be. Whatever the challenge, Tailow will not surrender.

“Alright my very own Tailow!” Mike shouted with glee. Mike remembered his dad’s Swellow and the stories of how Tailow had been caught in Petalburg Woods and went on to become a vital member of the team in Ash’s attempt at the Hoenn League Tournament. Mike had always admired Swellow’s brave heart, determination, and persistence. Swellow reminded him of himself; never backing down, no matter what difficulties lay ahead.
“A Tailow eh?” Dan said. “Not a bad catch Mike, let’s see how it fairs in a fight. Spearow hit it with a Wing attack!”
“Tailow, Quick attack!” Mike responded immediately.
Spearow swooped down low, trying to take out Tailow before it left the ground. Tailow was too fast for his opponent to keep up, and shot up into the air, easily evading the irritated Spearow before plunging back down to the ground. Tailow hit Spearow hard, pummelling him with his stubby beak. Spearow was dazed and slightly startled by the speed of his enemy, but soon recovered and jumped to his feet, awaiting the next command.
“Tailow’s pretty tough Mike,” Dan commented.
“Thanks Dan, your Spearow’s not so bad either,” Mike returned the praise. “Blind it with a Sand attack Tailow!”
“Blow it away with Whirlwind!” Dan countered.
Tailow skimmed low across the forest floor and used its wings to kick up sand and dust to distract Spearow. But Spearow beat its wings rapidly, causing a windstorm to drive away the blinding dust.
I need a plan that can catch it off guard, Mike thought. An idea miraculously appeared in his head.
“Strike it hard with another Quick attack Tailow!” Mike yelled.
Tailow sped towards Spearow beak first, with its wings outstretched and its sleek body shining in the early morning light.
“You never learn do you Mike?” Dan shook his head. “Block it with another Wing attack!”
Spearow responded swiftly, and began to glide smoothly towards the oncoming bird. It was bringing its wings into attack position, forming a horizontal ‘V’ shape in the air in preparation for the collision of the two aerial attacks. However, this also meant that it would be extremely difficult for Spearow to pull out of the dive. It was just what Mike had been counting on.
Tailow and Spearow were closing in on each other. Closer…closer…
“PULL UP!” Mike cried out.
Tailow pulled away from the ferocious Spearow at the last second. Spearow wasn’t so lucky. It kept on going and plummeted into the grassy forest floor. Unconsciousness was immediate; it was out cold.
Pyra stared at the unmoving Spearow, astounded by the clever plan which had put it there. Mike was certainly no amateur when it came to battle strategies, that much was clear to her.
“That…that was kinda cool,” Pyra commented.
“Yeah that was really something,” Dan agreed. “You’ve definitely got your parents skill buddy.”
“Thanks Dan, you aren’t so bad yourself.” No-one ever said Mike was without modesty. Dan returned Spearow.
“Good try Spearow, you’ve made me proud.” Dan spoke to the Pokeball in his hand. He then placed it on his trainer belt and grabbed his third and final Pokeball. “I hope you’re ready for this Mike, because my starting Pokemon won’t go down easily.” With that said, Dan tossed the Pokeball containing not only his most powerful Pokemon, but his last chance of winning this epic battle…

[KCash]

THANK YOU! Now we finally know which pokemon it was.. thats a load of my shoulders. Great job Phoenix and keep up the great work. You have approved quite a bit.

EDIT: Sorry Skottie, typing a 100 MPH is to fast for me to think as well. *IMPROVED*.. you've IMPROVED Phoenix.. lol

[Neo Pikachu]

Hey, nice job Phoenix, finally we know what that Pokemon was! Great update, Swellow seems like a nice choice for Mike, if that's what your intentions are.

[Dr Skottie]

Good job man! This is quickly becoming one of my fave's. Keep it up. :cool:

PS: i think KCash means improved, instead of approved :silly:

[Horseystar]

Phoenix, post more, post more!! I can't wait to read your next post - Keep up the great work!! :clap:

[Dr Skottie]

EDIT: Sorry Skottie, typing a 100 MPH is to fast for me to think as well. *IMPROVED*.. you've IMPROVED Phoenix.. lol

hehe, its all good man. i know what u mean :razz:

[Tidus24]

It's a Taillow or Wingull?

I guessed right :biggrin: :silly:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks for all your comments everyone, I can't believe how many people seem to love this fic! Even the famous writers like Skottie, KCash and NP! (Your fics are great BTW).
You were correct Tidus, so well done, but you actually guessed twice. Can anyone guess what Dan's starter is? You'll have to guess quickly because I'm hoping to have the next part up inthe next few days, preferably sooner. It all depends on how often I can get on the computer. In the mean time, please keep sending your comments. Thank you!

[Tidus24]

the chapter name is "friendly fire", so must be a fire type, since is a starter, Mike as a charmander, Pyra as a cynda, so must be a Torchic :biggrin: .

[Phoenix004]

That would be logical guess. Maybe it's right...maybe it isn't. I'm not going to tell you so you'll have to wait for me to update. Keep on guessing!

[Phoenix004]

Thought I'd forgotten you guys eh? Not a chance! Sorry it's been so long, I've got Parent's evening coming up at school so I've been busy trying to convince the teacher's that I'm not a complete idiot. Anyway, sorry I kept you waiting, please tell me what you think. Did any of you guess Dan's starter? I doubt it!

Dan must have either Bulbasaur, Pikachu, or Squirtle. Mike thought to himself. Which means that if he took Pikachu, then Tailow is in trouble, but if he’s got Bulbasaur I’ll have the advantage with Tailow and Charmander.
There was a blinding burst of light as a strange creature emerged from the Pokeball; but it wasn’t Squirtle, Pikachu or Bulbasaur. This Pokemon was a small, shiny, metallic specimen.
“What the-” Mike started.
“Surprised Mike?” Dan asked rhetorically. “I guess old Oak didn’t tell you my Uncle Steve gave me a starter Pokemon.”
Mike stood there for a moment, confused. Hadn’t the professor told him that the three starters had been taken? He thought back to the day at the lab…

“You mean there are no Pokemon left!”
“I didn’t say that,” Prof. Oak said. “I said that the other three trainers have passed the test and been given a Pokemon."

Of course! Mike grinned at the memory. Oak had said that they had all passed the test and been given a starter; but he didn’t say that Pikachu, Bulbasaur and Squirtle had been taken. The professor knew Mike had had his heart set on getting a Charmander, so he made Mike think that the other three had been taken so it didn’t look like favouritism. Technically he didn’t even lie. Mike made a mental note to thank Oak at the nearest opportunity.
“Okay then, let’s see what this little fella is,” Mike took Dex out of pocket and pointed it at the steel critter.

Pokedex Data Download: Aron: the metal mouse Pokemon. This rare and unusual Pokemon is native to the land of Hoenn and is not often seen in Kanto. Its body is made of steel but it is also part Rock type. To maintain its metallic structure, it feeds off iron ore dug up from under mountains. Despite its small size, this tough Pokemon can disable a truck in a single charge.

“Ouch, sounds nasty. I’m not sure if Tailow can pull this one off,” Mike wondered aloud. “Tailow, try a Quick attack!”
“Bad move Mike. Protect yourself with Harden Aron!” Dan declared his attack with quiet confidence.
Aron scrunched up into a ball and began to glow slightly, only seconds before Tailow struck its steel shell.
CLANG!
Tailow collapsed in a heap on the ground with its beak half flattened by the harsh blow; Aron received not even a scratch. Tailow slowly climbed to its feet (or talons) but Mike could see signs of heavy fatigue on the bold bird’s face. He knew it couldn’t continue in this condition.
“Return Tailow, you’ve earned a break,” Mike recalled Tailow to it’s Pokeball.
“Are you ready to surrender yet Mike?” Dan challenged.
Mike selected his final Pokeball and looked Dan in the eyes with a smile.
“You wish buddy, you know I never give in without a fight. Now’s it’s just down to you starter stick mine. Go get ‘em Charmander! Let’s show Dan how it’s done!”
Charmander exploded from it’s Pokeball; tail blazing and ready for battle.
“Charmander!” he cried.
“Arrrrrrrr, ron!” Dan’s starter responded in kind. Despite having a slight weakness to fire, Aron wasn’t going down easily.
“Alright Charmander, let’s heat things up a little with your Flamethrower!” Mike commanded.
“Aron, fight back with Roar!” Dan swiftly retaliated.
As Charmander began to shoot a stream of red hot flames towards his opponent, Aron began to howl at the fire lizard.
“AAARRRRRRRRONNNNN!!!” Aron’s deafening roar temporarily stunned Charmander and it was unable to finish the fiery attack.
“Nice job there Aron, now hit it hard and fast with your Tackle!” Dan called out. He was definitely taking advantage of Charmander’s reluctance to attack.
Aron slammed into Charmander at high speed, knocking the Fire Pokemon senseless.
An unpleasant feeling hit the pit of Mike’s stomach, as he realised there was a real chance he could lose this match…

[Dr Skottie]

good job mate, keep it up! :cool:

[Tidus24]

Where's the rest?? :ermm:

[Phoenix004]

Don't worry Tidus, I'll have more up ASAP. I'm sure glad it's a Bank Holiday today!

[Neo Pikachu]

Little Aron has become... quite popular lately...

Nice new addition to the story Phoenix! Finally we know who was Mike's mystery Pokemon!

[Phoenix004]

I didn't realise Aron was popular, I've been trying to use Pokemon which don't appear often. Originally Mike was going to capture a Pidgey, but that was before I noticed that almost every trainer was catching either a Pidgey or a Pidgeotto. That's why I chose Tailow instead. It may also become a Swellow later on, but I won't promise anything.
Anyway, thanks for the feedback NP, I really appreciate it; especially from such a famous writer on PE2K. I'm glad you approve of Aron as Dan's starter, I thought it might be slightly unexpected. Many of you probably thought, as Mike did, that it would be Bulbasaur, Pikachu, or Squirtle. Tidus thought it was a Fire type from the title, which I have to agree would have been interesting to see, but I called it "Friendly Fire" because that's what the military call it when you shoot one of your own men. Just like Mike is battling one of his best friends, get it? I guess it doesn't really matter.
Just to let you know, the next part will probably be up this weekend. Please keep sending feeback until then. Thank you!

[Phoenix004]

I've got loads of homework so I'll be brief: thanks to those who posted feedback, it was helpful. I'm sorry this will be very short but I thought you'd want to see more. So here it is:

Chapter 8: Off to Pewter.

If I don’t think of something fast, I could be in trouble, Mike thought worriedly.
“Tackle it again Aron!” Dan called out. Aron shot towards Charmander like a heat-seeking missile about to collide with its target.
“Hit it with a Fireball!” Charmander fired a flaming ball which struck Aron in its metallic face, temporarily disorientating it. “Great work Charmander, now whack it with your Ember attack!”
Just as Aron was recovering from the fiery surprise, Charmander appeared, as if out of nowhere, at the back of Aron.
“Arrr?” Aron still sounded dazed from the Fireball.
“Aron look out!” Dan pleaded. Too late.
Charmander swung its tail at Aron and whipped it with the blazing tail-flame. Aron crumpled with a burn on its steel shell.
“Aron, can you stand?” Dan asked. His face was full of worry. That was when Aron leapt at Charmander, taking it completely by surprise. Charmander was knocked down, but quickly recovered.
That’s a pretty smart Pokemon, Pyra though as she watched from the sidelines.
“Be careful Mike,” Pyra warned. “Something tells me this Aron won’t be easy to take down.”
Mike nodded in agreement.
“I think you could be right there Pyra, I’ve never even heard of a Pokemon “playing dead” before. Something tells me this isn’t going to be easy.”

[Phoenix004]

This post will also be extremely short, but I promise the next one will be much longer! The reason this is so short is that I just had to leave you hanging off the edge of your seats. Plus it gives me a little more time to finish the rest of the chapter! Anyway, your free to post feedback you know *hint! hint!* and I should be posting a significantly bigger post in the next day or so. Until then, please enjoy one of the most evil cliffhangers of all time!

“You’re damn right it ain’t gonna be easy!” Dan shouted. “Aron, Metal claw!”
Aron’s steel paw began to glow as he shot towards Charmander.
“Charmander look out!”
Charmander dived left and Aron flew over his head, missing him by millimetres. Aron sailed straight into a tree. Or, to be more specific, Aron went through the tree and slammed into the grassy forest floor. It had only sustained minimal damage, but it was starting to get worn out.
Mike didn’t hesitate.
“Roast it with your Flamethrower buddy!” Charmander began to spurt a fiery stream from his mouth.
Sadly for Mike and his starter Pokemon, Dan was pretty quick on the uptake too.
“Metal claw!” Aron charged up another power packin’ punch and barreled into the unfortunate fire lizard, sending a torrent of flames flying off harmlessly into the open forest air.

WHAM!!!

Charmander crumpled and fell to the floor.
“Hit him while he’s down Aron,” Dan ordered swiftly. “Headbutt!” Aron raced towards Charmander for the finishing blow. However, as Aron approached at high speed, Charmander did something quite amazing. Not only did he manage to climb to his feet, but he also began to glow white!

[Neo Pikachu]

Wow. Sure wouldn't want to be Aron at a time like this...

Can't wait for your next chapter Phoenix! Keep it going!

[Tidus24]

lol, he evolved to a Charmeleon,lol :cool:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks for the feedback guys, it means a lot to me. You'll be happy to hear that this post will be quite a bit longer. Read on for the conclusion of the match!

It can’t be… Mike gasped in awe at the incredible sight before him. Charmander can’t possibly be evolving already, he’s only been with me for two days! What the hell is going on?
Perhaps Mike would have voiced these thoughts if he hadn’t noticed something rather unusual that was happening to Charmander. He wasn’t getting taller like the Charmeleon he would become; it almost looked like he was getting wi-
It was only then, as Mike realised what was happening to his fiery companion, that a broad smile emerged on his face. Charmander stopped glowing.
Aron continued the attack, undeterred by the strange glow. There was no way he could miss at that range.
Aron’s rock hard head connected with his opponent’s chest…
And passed right through him…
Aron hit the ground hard…
Charmander had dissapeared…
And now two Charmanders stood in his place. Yeah that’s right, two.
Charmander hadn’t evolved at all; he had learnt a cunning new technique.
“Double team?” Pyra was astounded.
“Double team?” Dan was equally bewildered.
“Double team.” Mike confirmed with a grin. He had figured it out when he noticed that Charmander was getting wider and not taller. Charmander had learned a new move at just the right time; narrowly avoiding defeat by tripling itself at the last nano-second. Aron had been at point-blank range by this point and so wouldn’t have had enough time to compensate, even if he had seen the other two Charmanders mysteriously pop into existence.
“Aron! Are you okay?” Dan was very concerned for his friend. Aron dragged itself to its feet, but it wasn’t looking to good. “Try and manage one last Metal claw Aron!”
As Aron ran at Charmander (the remaining copy and vanished due to Charmander’s inexperience with the move), Mike knew that neither Aron nor Charmander could take another hit. If Aron’s attack struck first, it would be all over for Charmander.
I don’t think so… Mike thought as his determined mind (no doubt a gift from his strong-willed parents) immediately selected a course of action.
“FLAMETHROWER!!!”
“Char…man…der…CHAR!!!!!!!!!!!!” A tidal wave of napalm exploded from Charmander. It seemed almost unbelievable that such an immense amount fire could emerge from the mouth of a two foot high lizard. But shocking as it seemed, it was happening. And with incredible speed and power behind it. Aron was sent soaring by the force of the fiery blast, and hit the ground hard. He was down and most certainly out. Out, but definitely not cold. Aron was going to have one hell of a headache when he woke up, and it wouldn’t be anytime soon.
“Return Aron,” Dan re-called his unconscious Pokemon with a grim, defeated smile on his face. No-one could ever accuse Dan of being a sore-loser, and today’s battle wouldn’t change that. Anyway, Dan could always be happy knowing that it was a friend who had beaten him.
Okay, Pyra decided. He is good. Mike ran forward and hugged Charmander.
“Great work buddy, I knew you’d pull through!” Mike told his Pokemon kindly.
“Char char!” he replied happily. Mike reached into his pocket and took out a Pokemon treat for Charmander. While his Pokemon chewed on the treat, Mike turned to Dan.
“Not bad Mike,” Dan commented. “Not bad at all.”
“Aw, come on!” Mike said modestly. “I was lucky that’s all! You’re a great trainer Dan, and I can’t wait to face you in the Pokemon League competition.”
“Well in that case I’ll just have to train harder and beat the Master’s son in a League battle!” Dan said.
“What have I told you about calling me that?” Mike asked in mock anger. “You know I hate being known for having famous parents.”
“If you keep up on this level of battling, then you’ll soon get a reputation of your own I’d say.” Dan told him. The compliment made Mike smile.
“Thanks Dan, that means a lot to me. By the way, have you seen Ben since Pallet? I haven’t seen him since I got Charmander.”
“Yeah I saw him last night before I set up camp,” said Dan. “He challenged me to a one-on-one against his starter. You can probably guess what he got off his dad.” Dan gave Mike a meaningful glance.
“Tyrogue?” Mike asked Dan, although he already knew the answer.
“Tyrogue,” Dan confirmed. “Ben’s been after one since he was ten; and you know what he’s like with Fighting and Rock types. Seems you aren’t the only one who inherits his father’s traits.”
“It’s not what my father is that counts, it’s what I am.” Mike insisted. “I make my own decisions. You of all people should know that Dan.”
“I do know,” Dan replied seriously. His face then broke out into a broad smile. “I was just trying to make the fact that I beat him look better!”
“Congratulations Dan, I look forward to battling him myself, although I doubt he’ll be easy.” said Mike.
“Hey, we’re from Pallet remember?” Dan winked at him. “We never go down easily.”
“Very true,” Mike conceded. “Sadly that means Andy isn’t going to be a walk in the park either.”
“You’re a hundred times better trainer than he’ll ever be Mike, I can guarantee you that much.”
“Like that’s a challenge,” Mike said with a grin. Then he was serious again. “Say Dan, why don’t you tag along with us for a while?”

[Dr Skottie]

Very nicely done, nice end to the battle... :clap: I see you have taken some inspiration from my story Phoenix... I thought I was reading my story for a second. Your treading dangerous ground mate, don't copy me... :evil:

Haha! :biggrin: Nah its okay dude, just jokin :razz:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks for the comment Skottie, and if I am copying your story I didn't realize it sorry.
Your fic is great though, but I have created this story myself, so if anyone suspects me of copying anything, I can assure you that it was not intentional.
Please keep sending feedback and I'll try to get back to you guys ASAP!

[Azhure]

Hi there!
I just wanted to say that this is a great fanfic and im loving every minute of it.
I write fanfic myself ( for heaps of things...) and i wanted to tell you that i think that this is a well thought out story with great characters and wonderful color.

Thats all... Keep up the great work Phoenix! :clap:

[Latias10]

I am impresed with the battles. You make the battles long and interesting. I like it when Mike thought Charmander was evolving when it was learning Double Team. You got great writing skill so use them for good and write some more for us.

[Neo Pikachu]

I am impresed with the battles. You make the battles long and interesting. I like it when Mike thought Charmander was evolving when it was learning Double Team. You got great writing skill so use them for good and write some more for us.

One thing you have to know about Phoenix's story is that nothing ever happens until it actually happens.

Very cleverly done, I thought for sure Mike was getting a Charmeleon.

[Dr Skottie]

Yeh i know ur not copying phoenix. i love ur story. its just that part about him trying to escape his fathers fame, it kinda echoes my story. but thats okay i guess... hehe as long as u don't steal my fans! :razz:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks so much all of you guys, its great to hear all your comments, and it real encourages me to carry on writing.
I thought it was cool to make you all think he was going to evolve, but it's going to be a while before he evolves.
Skottie, I'm sorry if this sounds like copying, but actually I started making notes on this story before I read AAOAL. I hope you believe me. Anyway, I'll try not to copy any future ideas.
I'll try to update this weekend.

[Phoenix004]

As you can see there has been a slight delay. I hate school so much! How am I supposed to keep up with my story with all this work? Anyway, I'll be sure to post some more as soon as possible under my current work-load pile on.

[KCash]

Well since your such a great author and friend I made sure I would remember your birthday, now one thing I didn't make sure is to remember the time differences of where we live. So whatever time it might be there, HAPPY 15th BIRTHDAY!

Your doing a great job on this fic Phoenix, I just read some so I can catch back up. I think its safe to say that you are one of the greats here at PE2K.

[Phoenix004]

YAY!!! You remembered my Birthday! Thanks KC! I can't believe you guys like my fic so much, and you even think I'm one of the greats?! I don't know about that, but thanks for the compliment anyway! I'll try to live up to your standards.
Sadly, despite the fact I was due to post more before the days end, I've been out most of the day, so you guys are going to have to wait a little longer. I apologise for the delay.
By the way KC, the post you made was at 6:36am in my time.

[Tidus24]

I want to know the rest of the story :eh:

[Phoenix004]

Well you're about to find out Tidus. Yes that's right, I'm actually updating! *fanfare starts playing* Anyway, please tell me what you think and I'll post more when my exams finish!

“I think it would be best if we went our separate ways for now Mike, then I can look forward to annihilating you next time!” Dan joked.

“Yeah I guess you’re right…except for the annihilation thing of course.” Mike replied.

“Wait ‘til next time and we’ll see.” Dan said. Mike and Dan shook hands.

“I guess we’ll catch up with you later then buddy,” said Mike.

“I look forward to it Mike,” Dan replied. He turned to face Pyra. “And I wouldn’t say no to a battle from you one day either.”

“You can count on it Daniel, but don’t think I’ll go down without any trouble.” Pyra warned.

“Glad to hear it, I like a good challenge.” With that said, Dan walked off into the woods continuing on to Pewter city.

“He sounded alright,” Pyra commented as she and Mike (after returning Charmander) chose a different path back through the woods to where they had set up their temporary campsite.

“Sure. Sounded.” Mike teased. He looked her in the eye and raised an eyebrow suggestively.

“What? What do you-” she paused in mid-sentence, and a deep scarlet blush spread over her face. “Oh no! NO! I didn’t mean anything like that!” she insisted.

Mike laughed at the look of embarrassment on her face; and before long, Pyra was laughing with him. The horrors of the previous night put behind them, if not forgotten.

“We better hurry up Mike,” said Pyra, who was still grinning sheepishly. “It’s nearly 10:00 already and we haven’t even eaten yet.”

“Hey yeah, I’m getting pretty hungry t-” Mike froze in mid-sentence. “Uh-oh,” he gasped. He began to run to the camp. I just hope I’m not too late…

“Mike? Mike!” Pyra darted after him. Why is he running? Is something wrong? She wondered. Pyra finally caught up with Mike as the two of them entered the campsite.

“It’s worse than I thought,” Mike told her grimly as she approached. He was holding something in his left hand, but it was concealed from view.

“What is it Mike?” Pyra asked. What could be so terrible?

Mike held out his left hand for Pyra to see.

“The eggs are ruined!” he exclaimed. He was holding a frying pan by its heat resistant handle. Inside were the charred remains of what used to be four fried eggs.

Pyra sighed with relief. Then realisation of the terrible misfortune struck home.

“Great, now we’re going to have to wait until Pewter get some food!” she complained. Her stomach was starting to rumble.

“Now that’s where you’re wrong Pyra,” Mike told her with a mysterious grin. He took his backpack off his shoulders and began to search. “Fortunately I picked up some extra supplies before we-” For the second in as many minutes, Mike stiffened and stopped talking. Pyra is not going to like this, he thought.

“Please don’t tell me you forgot something else Mike,” Pyra moaned, more in despair than anger.

“I’m afraid so,” Mike admitted. “I didn’t pack extra supplies because I thought we’d be in Pewter by now.”

“Typical boy! Always forgetting the essentials. Luckily I came prepared.” Pyra told him proudly. She reached into her pocket and took out two chocolate bars. “No-one should start a journey across Kanto without a small stash of Chansey’s Caramel bars.” (Author’s note: A popular make of human chocolate. They aren’t Pokemon treats, but since when did that stop them!)

“You’re the best Pyra!” said Mike as he gratefully accepted the chocolate. “This will keep us going until we reach Pewter. We should be there within the hour if we don’t get sidetracked again.” They each tore the wrapper away to reveal to mouth-watering caramel centred chocolate bars.

Mike and Pyra quickly wolfed down the chocolate and, with slightly fuller stomachs, set off once again for Pewter city.

[Horseystar]

You're doing great, Phoenix -- Keep it up!!!

[Phoenix004]

You guys will be happy to hear that the first Gym Battle will be coming up in a few posts time. I want to know which of the two young trainers you think should battle the Gym Leader first. I have set up a Poll in the Mixed Polls section. I would also appreciate any reasons or comments concerning your choise.

[Phoenix004]

I'd like to be more patient with the Poll, but I'll be writing the first Gym battle fairly soon and I need to know, so I have selected myself who will battle first. It could be Mike, or it might be Pyra, you're going to have to wait and see. Thanks to the two people who voted, especially Tidus for being the only one to comment on his choise, and to Horseystar for posting comments here.
The exams are finally over! HURRAY! And I've had time between revision periods in the week to write down more on paper, which I will be transferring onto the computer ASAP. I will be posting more tonight or tomorrow night depending on how much time I get to write more. In the next post, Chapter 8 will be concluded, and our two young heroes will finally reach Pewter City! (It's about time!) They will battle the Gym Leader when they get there... or will they? I'm not going to say because it's great leaving you guys in suspense! And for those of you who are probably asking, yes I am very cruel when it comes to cliffhangers. It's one of my many talents.

[Phoenix004]

Sorry this is a little later than planned and it won't be too long because it's right near the end of the chapter; but I hope you enjoy it anyway! I'll try to post more soon.

After an hour of trudging through the deep, dark, gloomy forest; Mike and Pyra were finally reaching the end of their almost lethal experience in Viridian forest. The ancient, battered trees were thinning out, and pinpoints of light from the mid-morning sun were peeping through the gaps in the distance. The muddy, murky path beneath their feet had been replaced by a concrete footpath as they neared the wood’s end.

Awful memories of the unexplained happenings of the forest were left behind them, as the trees opened up to reveal the stone grey coloured city of Pewter.

“Alright! We’re finally here!” Pyra rejoiced.

“Yeah, for a moment back there I thought we’d never see the end of this forest.” Mike cheered with relief.

“Now we can finally get our first badges,” said Pyra.

“That’s great to hear Pyra, but I think we should stop by the Pokemon Centre first. I know the way.” Mike suggested.

“Good. We can get some food at the Pokemon Centre too,” she agreed. “And then we can decide who battles the Gym Leader first.”

The two trainers turned to face each other, their eyes full of hope, and looks of determination on their faces. They gazed into each others eyes and smiled at the thought of all the adventures which lay ahead of them.

Suddenly, like jet-powered rockets, they took off running down the hillside, desperate to reach the Pokemon Centre, and to continue their quest.

Pewter City was the first beacon on the road to the ultimate goal of the Pokemon League Tournaments. No matter what struggles lay ahead of them, they would find a way…

[Shadow]

hi pheonix, long time no see. i cant wait til mike battles the gym leader, its gonna be so cool!

[Tidus24]

I want more :biggrin: , because I'm starting to act :goofy: :oops: ,lol

[Phoenix004]

Sorry but you're going to have to wait a few days Tidus, as my brother lost our back up disks after the computer broke down. Also I am writing my WAR fic which I will start posting either today or on Friday. I apologise for the delay.

[Tidus24]

:think: This taking to long, and I'm starting to go nuts :goofy: , lolol

[Phoenix004]

OMG, sorry Tidus, I didn't realise it had been so long since my last update! I've been busy with two other fics, including my WAR fic, so I haven't had much chance to write up much of chapter nine yet. I'll try to post it ASAP. I gurantee that the first part of Chapter Nine- Fossils and resurrection (three guesses where they are going to go in this chapter!) will be posted by the end of the week. You have my word.

[Phoenix004]

Sorry it's been so long guys, I've been busy working on other fics as well as coursework. I'll make a post now, but I won't post another for quite a while.

Chapter 9: Fossils and resurrection.

“I checked with Nurse Joy, she said that our Pokemon will be ready to pick up in a few hours.” Mike told Pyra as they sat down in the Pokemon Centre Café. “That should give us time to grab a bite to eat and see the sights.”

The café wasn’t huge, but it wasn’t tiny either. It contained just over a dozen tables, most of which were occupied my Pokemon trainers of various ages; probably taking a break from their travels across Kanto. The tables and chairs were a bright crimson, but the walls and ceiling were a simple white. The tiled floor was a combination of red and white.

Pyra didn’t verbally answer Mike, she merely nodded in agreement. She didn’t even look up from the booklet she was reading: “A Tourist’s Guide to Pewter City.”

Mike however, was busy studying the menu.

“It’s late enough for an early lunch right? I’m thinking cheeseburger and fries,” said Mike.

“And I’m thinking Pewter Pokemon Museum.” Pyra replied.

“Oh yeah, I went there when I visited my Uncle two years ago,” Mike told her as he looked up from the menu. “Cool place. It’s got loads of different Pokemon fossils and displays.”

“It says here that they’ve just found a new fossil on Mt. Cinnabar; they think it might be a new species of Pokemon!” Pyra said excitedly. “We could go check it out while our Pokemon are being healed.”

“Sure, but first we eat.” Mike insisted.

“But first we eat,” Pyra agreed, reaching for the second menu. “Now how much are those cheeseburgers?”

[Phoenix004]

Since there has been a huge ammount of feedback lately (now you know what sarcasm sounds like!) I'll probably have more posted in about a week, possibly less. I may decide to write a URPG fic, so it may take a little longer. I would have posted more by now if my teacher had hadn't confiscated my notes, but at least I don't have to put up with school again for over five weeks.

Anyway, I'll get some more posted as soon as I can. In the mean time, any feedback on what you guys thought of the previous post would be appreciated. That is of course assuming people are still reading this story, it's kind of hard to tell what with the view count not working!

[Tidus24]

Don't worry man, I'm still reading your story, but it's taking to long to update.
This is my opinion, if you start writing many fics and rpg, you don't have time to update all, you should write at least 2 stories at the time. After you finished those fics, you create other things, but this only my opinion :biggrin: .
I see Mike, likes cheeseburguers like his father :razz: , cheeseburguers the food of heroes :biggrin:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks Tidus, I'm glad someone is still reading this. I know I don't post as often as I should, but I'm going to really try to write as much as I can this holiday. I should be posting more by the end of the week.

By the way, I love cheeseburgers too! Who doesn't really?

[Tidus24]

I want more, lol :evil:

[Phoenix004]

Well people, it's certainly been a while. I've had lots of work to do since I got back to school, and during the holidays my computer broke down 3 times and I was away for two weeks on holiday. Anytime I have had the time to write, I just haven't really been in the mood. I haven't had much inspiration lately. However, I am thinking of comtinuing this fic if people are interested. Just out of curiosity, how many of you would actually read this if I continued it?

[KCash]

I would read any of your fics Phoenix, I hope you continue this cause its a great fic and I enjoy reading it.

whasup! I made the 100th post!

*EDIT*
Well technically its only the 99th post but just let me have my glory for once.

[Dr Skottie]

Hey man, I'd keep reading it, I've been waiting in anticipation for this to be updated for ages! I love this story man, the characters are the coolest. Keep writing...

[Phoenix004]

I must admit that I'm quite suprised to see that two of my favourite authors both gave their support for my fic. Thanks so much guys! I really appreciate it. Luckily I managed to find a little time and a little inspiration last night so I've managed to get a small post done. I hope you two enjoy it, as well as anyone else who is still reading this story! (Note to KC: Your post was the 100th, it was the 99th reply to my original post).

Almost an hour later, Mike and Pyra left the Pokemon Centre with full stomachs, but also an appetite for adventure and a thirst for knowledge. They set off towards the Museum, ready to check out the mysterious new fossil.

As they trudged on through the busy afternoon streets, the two young trainers began to wonder about their up-coming Gym match later that day.

Pewter Gym has a famous reputation for specialising in Rock types, so Cyndaquil and Vulpix will be at a disadvantage, Pyra thought worryingly. I’m going to need to think up a strategy to beat him if I want that Boulder Badge.

Meanwhile, Mike was trying to figure out which Pokemon the Gym Leader was likely to use.

I wonder what kind of Pokemon Jake will use? Mike pondered. He’ll probably stick to the tradition of using Rock and Ground types. I remember the last time I saw him he only had that Geodude his dad got from the Breeding Centre, but he went on vacation to Johto last year so he’ll probably have a whole bunch of different Pokemon now. I hope my Pokemon have enough experience from those battles in the forest.

They continued walking down the grey stone path, when they finally reached the museum. It was a gigantic glass-domed building filled with a hundred different displays of ancient Pokemon fossil relics from millions of years ago.

Mike and Pyra walked up to the magnificent building only to find a sign saying: “Closed for Preparation” on the front door.

“Great, how are we going to get to see the new exhibit now?” Pyra complained. She had been really excited about seeing the Mt. Cinnabar fossil on display.

“Hold on a minute Pyra, we might be in luck!” Mike informed her as he finished reading a small notice beneath the sign. “It says here that the museum will be closed until 7:00 pm tonight while arrangements are made to install the new fossil display, the first viewing is tonight!” He cried excitedly.

“That’s great news Mike!” her face broke out into a wide smile. “But what are we going to do until then?”

“Well since we have plenty of time, I guess I could swing by my uncle’s Breeding Centre and see what the family are doing.” Mike said. “You’re welcome to join me but I thought that while we’re here you’d probably want to do some-”

“SHOPPING!” Pyra shouted with delight as she noticed all the different department stores in streets surrounding them.

“Exactly,” Mike said with a grin. “So how about we meet back at the Pokemon Centre at 6 pm to pick up our Pokemon and grab a bite and then we can head over here and check out the display.”

“Sounds like a plan Mike, I’ll see you back at the Centre!” she winked at him and then tore down the street remembering a store she had spotted along the way.

“Pokemon I can learn to understand,” Mike said to himself. “But girls will always be a mystery to me!” He set off towards the Breeding Centre.

[Neo Pikachu]

Hey, pretty good new addition! Another thing that's pretty good with your fic that I haven't mentioned before is that they flow so smoothly, and keep moving along at a steady pace. Plus your description is very good and you don't slow down the story to tell the reader what things looks like (Something I always do...). It's best to make description touch and go, and you did that very well.

I hope you keep going with this fic. It's really well done.

[Phoenix004]

Thanks so much Neo! I never realised that about my description, it just comes naturally, but thanks for pointing that out. Now all three of favourite authors have made comments this week! And yes I will be continuing this fic, but I'm not sure how often I will be updating it. I'm getting loads of coursework and I have work experience next week. I'll probably just post more when I have the time.

[KCash]

Great addition Phoenix! I have to go on Neo's word on the description. Some fics the description is needed but I like how you just get down whats needed. I perfer doing that on trainer fics as well. I'm glad to see a new post up because I really didn't want this fic to die. Awesome job and I hope I can see more up within the next week.

[Dr Skottie]

You know if a story is written well when you can read it outloud with fluency and ease. Based on that alone, this is a well written story, and one of my favourites! Nice update, flows well, good dialogue. More please. :biggrin:

[Trainer_Trevor]

Very good story I love it. That is also cool he got a Charmander. See I judge the story not the Paragraphing. If there was a rating 1-10 I'd give you 10/10

[Phoenix004]

Thank you so much for all your comments everyone! It means a lot to me. I'll try to update as soon as I can, I have loads of coursework at the moment.

[Tidus24]

(...) Where's the rest? :confused:
Already passed 11 days.

[Phoenix004]

Hi Tidus! Long time no see! I've been up to my neck in work lately, but I might be posting again sometime next week. Watch this space...

[Entei]

OMG!!! That was almost the greatest story I've ever read!!! Keep up the brilliant work, Phoenix!!

[Dr Skottie]

So Phoenix, buddy, mate... when are you updating?! It's been so long since you have posted anything to this great story of yours...

Haha I guess I shouldn't talk, I havent updated in awhile either... :razz:

[Phoenix004]

Wow! People are still reading my fic even though it's been ages since I posted? Thanks so much to anyone who has read my fic! And an extra thank you to Skottie (and anyone else who has been really pateint waiting for my update) and my new reader Entei, thanks for the feedback man! Nice to know that I'm still getting new readers.

I'm really sorry it's been so long since I've posted, I've had too much work to do lately. What with school, coursework, other writing projects I'm working on...the list is endless. I promise to update this fic as soon as I possibly can.

I'm also really looking forward to more of An Adventure of a Lifetime by Dr. Skottie, who is one of my favourite authors and I would recomend his fic to anyone who likes Trainer fics and has a lot of spare time on their hands!

EDIT: Cool, my 700th post!

[Tamer Marco]

This story is great! Can't wait for more! I haven't read in a while now, but i'm gonna catch up!

[Entei]

[QUOTE=Phoenix004] and my new reader Entei, thanks for the feedback man!
QUOTE]

Man! I'm insulted! I'm a girl! :susp: meh, no hard feelings. Still love your work!

[Phoenix004]

Oops! I'm really really sorry Entei! I forgot to check your profile to make sure. Won't make that mistake again! (Hmmm... somehow I don't think that's the first time I've said that!)

Another big thank you to Dark Luddico, I didn't even know you read this fic! I'm glad you enjoy it, but exactly how long is "a while?" I haven't posted since September 21st! Hopefully I will have posted by the time I next post.

By the way Entei, you said earlier that this was "almost" the greatest story you've read, can you make any comments or suggestions which might make the story more enjoyable to read? Thanks a lot.

P.S. I'm going to continue writing the next post tonight, so if you are lucky there might be a new post coming soon!

[Entei]

I can't really think of any improvements, and i can truthfully say this is THE greatest pokemon story ever! I said "almost" becoz i have so many favourite stories. Up in the top ten are probly 'The Power of Five' adapted by elizabeth leinhard, and the 'Immortals' series by tamara pierce. Keep writing, coz i was very sad to see no more when i logged in. I'm going to have to re read it to remeber what's happening! :wink: Love your work!!

[pikachu 6_5]

?

[Phoenix004]

Thank you so much Entei! You're seriously going to re-read the whole thing? That could take a while unless you are a fast reader like me! Anyway, I'm really sorry I let you all down by not posting yet, but this time I have a proper reason! (Thought you'd be suprised). My internet connection is messed up at the moment so I can't get online on my home computer. I have almost finished writing the next post, but so far it is only on paper. I'm going to type it up on my laptop and get it posted as soon as I can. I'm really sorry for the wait! As a personal thank you for your patience, I'll tell you this: Mike will actually meet up with the Gym Leader in this chapter! (Well I would tell you more but I wouldn't want to spoil the suprise!).

[Entei]

I'm getting very sad with no more story. :redface: by the way, you said that you couldn't log on? :neutral: how'd you post that then?! PLEASE keep writing, your fans are dying out here! :goofy:

[Phoenix004]

Sorry Entei, I have written the next post but it's still on my laptop so I'll have to post it a bit later. I couldn't get online on my home computer, so I went to my dad's house to make that post. Fortunately I can access the internet at home now, but I can't access Broadband at the moment so I won't be able to stay online as long.

I would also like to thank you Entei for inspiring me to carry on writing this story. I had a sudden burst of inspiration a few days ago and decided to carry on writing. I WILL be making a post later today. Hope to see you then! :biggrin:

EDIT: If there any Moderators reading this, can you please delete the post made last week by pikachu 6_5? Thanks.

[Phoenix004]

I told you I'd post today, so here it is, let me know what you think.

After walking along through the city for several minutes, Mike finally reached his destination, his Uncle Brock’s house. The house itself was fairly large, similar in size to Mike’s own house, but the Breeding Centre was attached to the back of the house making it seem much bigger. Despite being quite rich, neither Brock nor Mike’s parents really liked the idea of living in mansions in big cities. Instead they had bought moderate houses in comparison to their wealth, and had decided to stay in smaller towns closer to their families.

Brock lived here in Pewter along with his wife, Suzie, a fellow breeder he had met years ago during his long travels Ash and Misty. They also had a son living with them called Jake, who was four years older than Mike and had started his badge quest six years ago on his tenth birthday; although he had actually received his first Pokemon, a Geodude, on his eighth birthday.

After competing three times at the Indigo Plateau, he had returned home for the funeral of his Grandfather Flint, who had died of lung cancer. Mike had also been at the funeral. Shortly after the funeral, Jake’s uncle had offered him the position of Pewter Gym Leader (his uncle had married an attractive young woman from Celadon and had decided to move there to start a family with her). Jake had gladly accepted, eager to gain recognition and continue the family tradition. He had then left most of his Pokemon in his parents breeding centre to be cared for; as he wanted to start from scratch with his starter Pokemon, Golem. Although Mike had visited Pewter several times since then, Jake had never told him what other Pokemon he had caught; he wanted it to be a surprise for when Mike battled him for the Boulder Badge.

Over the past three years, Jake had become quite a successful Gym Leader, and it was rare for a rookie to beat him first time round. Jake also took occasional trips to other continents to train and capture new Pokemon. His Aunt Monica, one of Brock’s siblings who still lived in the city, usually took charge of the gym while he was away.

Mike’s thoughts were suddenly interrupted as something small and furry hit the back of his head. He didn’t even flinch; he had been expecting it.

“Vulpix! How’re you doing buddy?” Mike exclaimed. He reached behind his head, gently picked up what felt like a large fur ball, and lifted her over his head. This was the very same Vulpix that Brock had been given to care for by Suzie during his travels with Mike’s parents. Despite her growing age, Vulpix was still as cute as ever and she had greeted Mike in the same way for the past six years; by sneaking up on him and jumping onto the back of his head. This was one of the many reasons that Mike had always enjoyed visiting Pewter, as Vulpix was very friendly and seemed to enjoy Mike being there as much as he did.

She obviously looked a lot like Pyra’s Vulpix, except that her fur coat was shinier, and was also a darker shade of orange almost red colour. Mike had been told that this trait was quite common among female Vulpix. Mike assumed that Pyra’s Vulpix was a male.

“Vulpix! Vul!” she cheered happily.

Naturally Mike had absolutely no idea what she had said, but the smile on her cute orange face made it obvious. A voice then spoke out from behind Mike.

“Well it looks like ‘Miss Pokemon World’ is glad to see you.” ‘Miss Pokemon World’ is a Pokemon Beauty Pageant which is held in Celadon once per year, and Vulpix had won the gold medal for the last three years running. “And she’s not the only one.” The voice added.

[Dr Skottie]

Hey, nice little update there. A bit short but thats okay. Just keep in mind not to cram so much detail and back history into it, i know it can help explain the situation but a lot of the time its not needed. Keep up the good work.

[Phoenix004]

Thanks for the tip Skottie, I'll keep that in mind.

I'm off school at the moment, but I still have coursework to do which takes up a lot of my time. Fortunately, I have had time during school breaks to write more of this fic. I'll probably have more posted in a few days.

[Neo Pikachu]

Hey, nice work on this fic Phoenix! Yeah, I agree with Skottie that it could be a bit longer, but nonetheless, it's still quite good and shows evidence that you put a lot of thought into it.

Keep it up, I hope you keep going with this fic since it's quite good.

[Firestorm]

Wahooooooooooooooooo! I like it! It's just an idea, but mebbe vulpix should evolve. Once again (all shout this if you like the fic) I LIKE IT! :biggrin:

[Phoenix004]

Thanks Neo and Firestorm! I know my posts need to be longer, I just haven't had much spare time at the moment. Most of my time has been spent on coursework. I've been ill most of the week but my mum still forces me to do work. There are two things I really hate: school and disappointing my readers. So I just have to post when I can at the moment. I also have other stories to work on, and Neo's RP which is opening soon (highly recomended to anyone who likes cool RPs!).

I know that hasn't been much big happening recently in the story, but I can assure you that soon enough, something major is going to happen...

I am however, very glad to see my work appreciated. A lot of work has gone into this and that's why I'm not going to quit now.

Oh, and Firestorm? I LIKE IT!!! :biggrin:

[Firestorm]

I've been ill most of the week
Are you O.K now?

[Phoenix004]

I'm not feeling brilliant, but a lot better than I was a few days ago. Thanks for caring Firestorm!

Anyway, I've almost finished typing up the next post on my laptop, so I'll probably be posting either tomorrow (Saturday) or on Sunday. Hope to see you guys then!

[Firestorm]

BTW, is it counted as 'advertizing' to request for people to se my fanfic?

[Keeper_of_Light]

Hey, I have now read your fic. It about time really but I finally did it. Its GREAT!!! You had better post again soon or I will shout at you. Well since you aint here at the moment I expect every min you are away to be working on your fic. Cant wait to read more.

[Phoenix004]

It could be a while before I next post I'm afraid. I've been banned from the internet so I've had to sneak on late at night using a friend's user to post this. You probably won't see much of me for the next two weeks, but I'll try to get on as much as I can. See you soon everyone!

[Neo Pikachu]

Meh, that's a bummer. I like this story too, but if you can't write it, I hope you still think about it.

[Phoenix004]

I am still writing it, but I won't be able to get on much for the next two weeks. I'll post some whenever I can.

[Firestorm]

I can't wait for the next episode!

[Phoenix004]

Thanks Firestorm, I'm glad you enjoy it! There is a good chance I'll be posting more tonight.

Just out of curiosity, has anybody spotted areas of my fic which need improvement?

[Firestorm]

Not that I can see... although I still think Brock would have evolved his Vulpix by now...

[Phoenix004]

Possibly, but I personally think that Brock would be as likely to evolve Vulpix as Ash would be to evolve Pikachu.

Sorry I haven't updated yet, been busy with exams. I'll try to post soon.

[Firestorm]

No matter... I can't wait for the next chapter! :wink:

[Dr Skottie]

No matter... I can't wait for the next chapter! :wink:

I'm looking forward to an update too :happy:

[Tidus24]

I want more, I want to read more :biggrin: lolo

[Phoenix004]

I'm really sorry I haven't posted in a long time everyone. Having a few problems at the moment, but I can promise a post sometime next week. I apologise for the delay.

[Dragon Lover]

This storys great ill be waiting for u to update *waits patiently for a moment*
*goes beserk the next moment* :rolleyes:

[Phoenix004]

Anybody who reads this fic please check out my poll in the Mixed Polls section: MKPJ Poll- READERS ONLY!

[Firestorm]

Done it! DON'T STOP!

[kellycook1990]

hey mike great story! I'm not finished it yet but I thought I'd comment on it. Ur battles are very descriptive, which is great! I also like the romance u've added with Pyra and Mike. U can't go wrong with romance!

[Phoenix004]

I'm glad you enjoy my fic Kelly, and I'm really sorry it's been so long since I updated. I've been caught up in a lot of other things and haven't had much time to work on this story. I really was planning to work on it this holiday, but I've had coursework to finish and a bunch of other things to sort out. I'll be sure to let you know when the next update is due, but it could be a while yet. My deepest apologies.

[kellycook1990]

no problemo. lookin foward to hearing from ya.

[Pokedash]

Phoenix I just read your fic and I really hope you get to post some more soon. You are, without a doubt, 300 times better than me in describing anything in your fic. Don't give up, keep up the good work.

[Phoenix004]

Thanks so much Pokedash! That means a lot to me. I find it quite amazing that even though it's been ages since my last update, people are still replying to this thread. I thought everybody had given up on me.

To be perfectly honest, I have no idea when I'll next be updating. Two things I generally need to work on a story are time and inspiration, both of which have been in short supply lately I'm afraid. I've had way too much work at school, plus I have exams coming up this summer.

I'll try to update whenever I can, but if I can't gurantee a lot before my exams. I apologise deeply to anybody who reads this fic.

[Pokedash]

It's ok because I completly sympatize with you on the exams, I have testing in about 3 weeks. Just know that whenever you post a new chapter or part of one I will be reading it. You have written, without a doubt, the best fic I have seen in a long, sine I quit and rejopined PE2K that' is. Continue you great work when it is conventient to you.

[Entei]

Phoenix, how dare you not add some!!! Destruction of your very being is the only answer. I haven't been online for like a MONTH!!! and you can imagine how disapointed i was when there wasn't something new!! I'll tell you - i WAS VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!!! :dazed:

[Kayden Javlaíakín]

Entei? I thought you had gone... Well, anyway, don't diss experinced trainers. They deserve respect!

[Phoenix004]

LMAO! Thanks Kayden! About time me got some respect around here... (joke)

You are quite right of course Entei, I'm very sorry for letting you all down, I've just been really tied up with other things lately, none of my stories have been updated in a while. I might be able to type up a post this weekend, so please at least postpone my crucifixion until then! See you all soon!

[Suisho Ai]

Heh, i thought Entei had gone too. Loving the story, Phoenix, loving it.

I happen to agree with Entei - WE NEED MORE STORY!!

destruction of your very being is clearly the only answer.

In a most respectful manner, of course.

(that good, Weed Lady?)

[Kayden Javlaíakín]

I will report you after calling me "Weed Lady" in a thread other than the Renaming thread. Stop following me everywhere I go!

[Dragon Lover]

Suisho i dont know ur problem with Kayden or grass pokemon. I've been to other threads looking for something interesting and i've seen u callin her weedy lady. Read the rules if u want a link go here. (http://www.pokemonelite2000.com/forum/showthread.php?t=28) It clearly says respect other members.

Now with that done lets end the fighting and start getting along.(im startin to sound strange now.... :signsigh: )

[Phoenix004]

Please don't post your arguements in my thread guys, take your fighting elsewhere.

EDIT: Excuse my language, but HOLY CRAP!!! I just looked up when I last posted... I didn't know it had been that long! I really am cruel for leaving you all hanging all this time. I really need to get round to posting some more...

[Deathspector]

Hey Phoenix love the fic.

I would have posted earlier, but I took some time to finish reading the fic (the extra time was worth it)

I don't mind you not posting, just make the next post as good as the others.



P.S. You should have a fan club :wink:

[jozza_90]

*applause*awsome story im actually liking reading it and im not much of a reading person its great 10/10 story

[Phoenix004]

You might not mind Deathspector, but I imagine that some of my older readers are getting as little impatient now (not that I blame them).

Big thanks to you both for your compliments, but you are supposed to be more constructive when posting your views on a story (at least according to the new reviewing policy). Is there anything you don't like about my story? Is there anything missing which you think should be added? I'd be very grateful to have some more constructive feedback.

I'll try getting in a post either today or tomorrow. If not, then I'm afraid you might have to wait until next weekend. You wouldn't believe all the work I've had to do in the past few months. Sorry again for the delay.

[Deathspector]

Sorry Phoenix. I'll put some constructive in this (or at least try). Umm...How about trying to make bigger posts? I think it will attract more readers.

That's about all I can think of...your story is the best!

[Phoenix004]

:biggrin: Thanks Deathspector, I'm glad you like the fic so much. And yes I am quite aware of the lacking size of my posts. I'll definitely have to find time to work on this fic this week, maybe I'll make a post at the weekend.

Everybody feel free to post further comments in the mean time, I could use a little inspiration.

EDIT: If nobody can think of anything bad about this story, please tell me what you most like about it so I can add more of the stuff you like. I wouldn't want to disppoint you all after so long waiting!

[Suisho Ai]

apologies again to flower girl kayden!

hey phoenix, you know what i really like about your story? Its in real time! Most stories nowadays put the characters travels in the space of a well-turned paragraph - with this we have to wait a week for a week's journey!

(if that sounded insulting its really not meant to be - i've noticed that ppl have taken offense to things i've said that really really weren't meant to be offensive - see "Weed Lady")

i'm planning to re-read the story again :oops: to remember what's happening - keep up the brilliant work!

[Phoenix004]

Don't worry about it Suisho, I don't find it at all insulting (I deserve it). I actually thought it was quite funny! :biggrin: I like people who can look on the psitive side of a bad situation. I once again apologise for not posting in so long, but after extensive searching I have managed to recover my hand written copy of the next chapter. This means you can all expect a post quite soon, possibly later today. Until then, I appreciate any comments.

[kellycook1990]

pheonix, i know u like ppl giving u tips or whatever when they review ur fic, but i honestly can't think of anything that needs to be improved. maybe the posts a little longer, but i know u've already explained that ur busy and stuff. looking forward to ur next update! :happy:

[Deathspector]

Handwritten copy! making me jump up and down in joy (no, not really)

Why did I just do that? getting spasticated.

anyway, Im hoping to see some writting soon

[Suisho Ai]

hmm, im losing faith... if there hasn't been anything new since i last went on then thats something to worry about - i hardly ever go online!

[Phoenix004]

I would like to point out that you've only been a member here since April Sushio. Also, I'll probably be making a post tonight. I'm really sorry it's been far too long, I planned to make a post last weekend but my teachers seem to insist on increasing my work load. I also have important exams coming up soon.

[Phoenix004]

Done two exams so far, not sure how well I've done. Fortunately I don't have anymore until 6th June. Anyway, I haven't had much spare time to type up the paper copy (my mum is making it difficult for me to get on the computer due to the exams) but I hate having to make you all wait like this, so I'm giving you a small post in honour of my 16th birthday (which ended about 10 minutes ago). Sorry it's so short. ENJOY!!!

“Great to see you too Jake,” Mike said as he turned to face his friend. “What’s new?”

“Nothing big really,” Jake replied with a shrug. “Caught a bunch of Pokemon in Johto, they have some tough little critters hanging out there, perfect for the Breeding Centre. How’ve you been Mike? Caught any new Pokemon? Dad told me you started with Charmander, although I knew you’d pick him anyway!”

“I sure did! He’s working out great and we got loads of training in the forest. I even caught a Nidoran and a Tailow.” Mike told him.

“Not bad Mike,” Jake nodded approvingly. “Dad also mentioned that you’d met someone?”

“Oh yeah! I met this really cute- I- I mean I met this girl on my way to Viridian.” Mike informed him, his face turning a dark crimson. Jake laughed, but in a kind-hearted way.

“So what’s she like then?” Jake asked.

“Her name’s Pyra and she’s the Cinnabar Leader’s sister. We decided to travel around together to collect the badges.”

“Sounds pretty cool Mike, it’s always best to travel with someone.” Jake pointed out. “By the way, if you two want a battle it’ll have to wait until tomorrow; where is she anyway?”

“Well we were going to visit the Museum but it was closed, so we’re going to meet back at the Pokemon Centre to get our Pokemon back from the nurse and then head over to the museum. She wanted to go shopping, so I decided to come visit you guys.”

“A wise move Mike, very wise.” Jake nodded thoughtfully. “You have learned one of the most important rules of Pokemon training: ‘Never take a girl shopping under any circumstances.’”

Mike laughed. “So anyway, why can’t we battle you today?”

“Well I kind of just battled this guy, Daniel Crono. He’s a friend of yours I believe.” Jake said. “Besides, I want my Pokemon to be in top shape when I battle you two.”

“Dan’s battled you already?! Did he get a badge? Did he win?” Mike shouted hysterically.

“Calm down Mike, no need to interrogate me,” Jake replied. “Yes Dan did get one of my badges, he’s quite a battler, but your other two friends aren’t here yet.”

“Andrew Oak is definitely not my friend, the guy hates my guts.” Mike scowled.

“I doubt that’s true Mike, maybe he’s just jealous of you.”

“Yeah, maybe.” Mike wasn’t in the mood to argue so he decided to change the subject. “Have you seen the new fossil at the Museum yet?”

“Are you kidding me? I wish; tonight’s the first showing and the guys at the museum are insisting that nobody gets to see it before then.”

[Dragon Lover]

Thank you Pheonix. I know you have exams and mine are startin on monday so I cant complain about the lenght. This could use a bit moer discription but since most of it was speech....

Hope you do good in the place they call hell (exams)...,

~DL~

[Suisho Ai]

Alright! Two thumbs up for more writing! Now ... when's the next bit?!
Hehe... Sorry, im not very patient. Don't worry, I'll wait! :oops:

[Deathspector]

Great work Phoenix.

I have to agree with dragon lover (exams r hell. I just finished mine... :biggrin: )

Hope u do well, and then u can spend more time on the fanfic

[Blaze Lizardon]

Great story, Phoenix004! :wink: I spent the last few days reading this entire story, and from what I've seen it's turned out really well. I wish it would go faster, but as we all know, some things in that area just can't be amended. :happy:

Anyway, onto the review:

Characters
I've found that they're very interesting; I believe characters carry the story and yours do a good job at that. Mike is a fascinating character, being the son of the Champion and all. Adding to that, he's very modest and wants to step out of his father's shadow. You've taken an interesting concept and did well with it, in my opinion. Pyra is also interesting, but I'd like to see some more background info on her, or at least some sort of sequence that could possibly develop her character more. As a character I believe she has a ton of potential, but it's all up to you. :happy: Having read all that I read now, all I know about her is that she likes fire Pokémon, shopping, and is related to a gym leader.

Story
One thing's for sure, this story is nowhere near predictable. And that's what I love about it. It's not to the point where I'm sitting on the edge of my seat like "OMG, anything can happen," (which can be a good or bad thing) but you keep the readers on their toes with new surprises. With that said, it'll be interesting to see how the characters react to the inevitable changes that will occur in the story. Also, this is another area where a lot of potential is waiting. The whole "Team Shadow" thing, the rivalry with Oak's kid, the relationship between Mike and Pyra, etc. are all capable of really letting this story take off. So far, I think you've done an excellent job handling them. Let's just hope you continue to do it justice in the future! :wink:

Overall
I've got to admit, initially I wasn't too excited about the concept of this story. Having already read Skottie's "Adventure of a Lifetime," the idea of a famous trainer's son/daughter trying to step out of their father's shadow didn't sound so original. But having read this story, I've gotta hand it to you: you've really proved that this idea has a lot of flexibility and is capable of making a good story with well-developed characters and great scenarios. Just keep going with the same scenario you're going with, and I'll continue to enjoy this! :biggrin:

[Phoenix004]

Wow! An actual review! And a good one too! :biggrin:

Thank you so much Blaze! Now I know which aspects of this story need work. You do make a good point about Pyra's character, it does need a little more development. Now that you mention it, that does give me an idea...

I'm also glad to hear you like my unpredictable plot twists, it's so much fun writing them! Team Shadow in particular really add to the whole mystery. You can all expect a lot more of them, that much I can gurantee.

I have to admit though, I didn't think this story was going to be popular at all, especially due to all the other awesome trainer fics around. However, like you said, trainer fics can be full of variation.

As for what you said aout timing, that won't be as much of a problem when the holidays start after the exams. I might even use this story as a WAR fic. Either way, I'll try to get another post up ASAP!

[2wings]

I’m speechless........ This fic is above aweso - * develops a serious case of laryngitis* :silenced:

[Redlark]

ooooo00000OOOO000000ooooooo - I likey, I likey. What really struck me was how the story progressed. Tension build up, etc. etc. Very imaginative; I don't know what's coming next, and now I really want to know! It reminded me of the classic anime, but with a whole different "fresh" thingie I'm really bad at explaining. Either way; you've gained another fan reader. :wink:

I guess the only thing I'd say, without repeating what other people have said, would be: perhaps some more dialogue and/or situation. I don't know though; it's really good as it is. Very fun. :hungry:

[Charizard3370]

This story is just plain awesome! 'Nuff said. Keep wr- i mean typing!

[Phoenix004]

Thanks so much to everybody for their praise, it makes typing all this worth while. I'm sorry for the delay in posting, but it won't be too long now until my exams are over, and I might be able to get in a post before they finish.

Also, due to the exams taking up a lot of my time, I plan to use this story as my WAR fic. So you can expect quite a few updates during the summer!

[Dragon Lover]

Thanks so much to everybody for their praise, it makes typing all this worth while. I'm sorry for the delay in posting, but it won't be too long now until my exams are over, and I might be able to get in a post before they finish.

Also, due to the exams taking up a lot of my time, I plan to use this story as my WAR fic. So you can expect quite a few updates during the summer!

Phoenix...don't let this go to your head because of people like me not giving proper reviews. We are violating the reviewing policy so I will try to give my best reviews. Just saying this 'cause of the HMW incident.

~DL~

[Phoenix004]

Don't worry, praise doesn't go to my head. Just goes through one ear and out of the other! ^_^

You are correct however, from now on I would prefer people to only post here if they are going to give constructive comments.

[Neo Raichu]

Nice job phioneix! I love it! please write more I started last night and just finished.

to make the story better I think that you should put more advanced pokemon in.
And I LOVE the way you made your own attack and evolved form for when evee touches a metal coat.

Keep it up I love this fic

[2wings]

I ''love the fic'', like every one here has reapeted over and over again. but it has a minor flaw. you haven't updated for ages and that way you lose readers...... sure they might come back after a few months but hey......... if you don't update and one of your reader's get attracted by another fic...... then they'll pretty much forget bout yours. just thrieng to help you out buddy i now what its like not having any ideas. what you need is inspiration.

[Phoenix004]

Thank you for your input, and yes I am quite aware of this problem. Lately I just don't feel like writing more of this even though I know what's happening next. I'm also writng some other stories, one of which is another fanfic. I want to concentrate on my actual stories as I plan to get them published one day, but whenever I think of stopping this fic I think of how much work and planning I put it and I can't bear to completely abandon it.

Therefore, I will be cotinuing this fic, butI don't know when. Depends when I get the inspiration for it. Sorry for the inconvinience.

[Vulpix_Master]

OMG, this is some of the best work i have ever seen seriously you my friend phoniex you are like satoshi tajri the creator of pokemon

[Chaos Power Dragon]

This is a great fic, and it should be continued. But then, this is your fic, so I shouldn't be saying anything. But anyway, this has great length and plot, with twists and turns on every chapter. You are obviously a master of suspense. Now, I'm not trying to revive a dead thread if this is one, 'cause then I obviously missed the funeral, but I sure hope this is revived some time before I'm 21...In any case, this was a great fic while it lasted-not the best, but it certainly could have been.

[RocketMeowth]

I'm sorry but you did revive an old thread. Look at the date of the last post to be certain it is dead or not. It may have been a good fanfic but don't post here okay? Thank you.