[Pokémon] The Eclectic City Saga

[Masquerainisthajam]

Eclectic City; it's a city known for its random culture and random city life and structure. Many of the attractions there include the PokeDome (for contests), The Gym (one of the toughest Gym Leaders), and the world famous Rose Garden. As Ash, Dawn, and Brock arrive there, they face a Pokemon Contest, a Gym Battle, and not to mention Team Rocket. How will our heroes fare in this adventure? Read on to find out! This is the Eclectic City Saga.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

The Eclectic City Saga: Part I
Contested and True

(Ash, Brock, and Dawn are preparing for their next contest and gym battle in the mysterious Eclectic City. They are walking on the road when they feel an intense gust of wind. Being the brave souls they are, they immediately run to the site of the wind's origin. There is a tall man with black jeans and a black and white checked shirt next to a big rock and a tree. He has brown skin with a buzzed haircut and he is wearing gray and white tennis shoes. Next to him is a Dewgong and a Masquerain. He doesn't notice the gang behind him, but he continues his training. The gang sneaks behind the rock and watches…)

Irvine: Now Dewgong, use your Horn Attack against that rock!

(The Dewgong with its sleek, white body lurches toward the rock, the horn on its head glowing. It attacks the rock, shattering it into thousands of pieces)

Irvine: Great job Dewgong! That was awesome!

Dawn: (unable to control her excited emotions) Wow! That was great!

(Her Piplup starts squealing at her to be quiet. The mysterious trainer turns around shocked that he has a small audience observing him and his Pokemon. He strokes the back of his head.)

Irvine: Oh my, I didn't expect to see anyone here. What are you doing here?

Ash: I'm not sure. We were on our way to Eclectic City when we felt an intense gust of wind. We ran here to find out what it was. Sorry if we startled you.

Irvine: Oh, it's perfectly fine. Who are you?

Ash: (clenches his fist in excitement) My name is Ash from Pallet Town and this is my best pal, Pikachu. (Pikachu squeals happily) I'm working on becoming a Pokemon Master and possibly a member of the Elite 4!

Dawn: I'm Dawn from Twinleaf Town and this is my Piplup. I plan on becoming a top coordinator.

Brock: I'm Brock from Pewter City and I want to become a top Pokemon Breeder.

Irvine: Wow, you have great dreams and aspirations. My name is Irvine and this (points to Dewgong) is my Dewgong. And this (points to a Masquerain) is my lifelong companion, Masquerain. (Masquerain does an aerial somersault) I'm training my Pokemon for their next contest in Eclectic City."

Dawn: Seriously? We were on our way to participate in the next contest also!

Irvine: (exclaims) Great! We can enter together! But let me warn you; I have not lost a single contest battle. (Showcasing his Contest ribbons to Dawn) I already have 4 ribbons. I'm one away from entry into the Grand Festival.

Dawn: (pulls out her ribbons) Look Irvine, I also have 4 ribbons! Whoever wins this will be able to go to the Grand Festival first.

Irvine: Well, I'm looking forward to this contest. You'll be surprised at the things I do! Can I tag along with you until we get to the city?

Ash: Sure! You can come with us if you like.

Irvine: Awesome! (He then calls Dewgong back into its Pokeball and starts to walk with the group.)

******​

​

(As the gang walks to Eclectic City, Irvine looks a little nervous. His hands are a little fidgety and his eyes and head are darting back and forth from Ash to everywhere else.)

Irvine: (nervously) Hey guys, um, I have a confession to make.

Ash: (to Irvine) What is it?

Irvine: Um, I live in Eclectic City so um…

Brock: (reassuringly, with a hand on Irvine) Go ahead, tell us what's wrong. You'll feel a lot better if you just get it off your chest.

Irvine: Well, not only am I working on becoming a top coordinator, I'm also kind of the Gym Leader of Eclectic City.

(A wave of shock passes through our heroes.)

Ash: (open mouthed and surprised) Seriously, YOU are the Gym Leader of Eclectic City?

Irvine: Well, yeah. Actually, for the past 4 years, I have been the Gym Leader of Eclectic City, specializing in all Pokemon types. (he takes a deep breath) I was one of the strongest Gym Leaders in the region, but then trainers found it easier and easier to beat me. My strategy had become stale. Just for the fun of it, I decided to join a Pokemon contest. That was where I won my first ribbon, after a few days of training, of course. Then, I found the spark in my Pokemon strategy. I traveled all over the regions, putting my Pokemon to the test, winning ribbon after ribbon. (points finger to Dawn) I have seen you perform, Dawn, and I wish to battle you in the next contest. When I am not working on contests, I fight trainers in the Gym Battles. (pumps his fist in the air) Now I am proud to say that I haven't lost a single contest battle yet!

(everyone looks at Irvine with awe and inspiration)

Dawn: Oh, wow! I never thought you could use Contest style techniques into Gym Battles!

Brock: (to Dawn) If you have the dedication and drive to do something, anything is possible.

Irvine: Not only that, but I can incorp…(stops, then smiles) Actually, never mind. I'll show you my strategy at the next Contest and Gym Battle! (pointing ahead) There is my home, Eclectic City!

(the group runs toward the horizon to the city.)

******​

(In Eclectic City, Irvine stops the gang.)

Irvine: (concerned) Hey guys, this is where I split up with you. I have to do some more training for the Contest tomorrow morning. We shall meet again!

(Irvine runs down one street with his Masquerain close behind him. The group looks at each other, concerned about Irvine, but they keep walking until they make it to the Pokemon Center, having their Pokemon healed, and turning in for the night)

******​

(The morning sun beams its bright rays over Eclectic City as everyone gathers at the PokeDome. And in the center of the stage is the host, Marian, holding a handheld microphone in her hand. On the end of the stage are the three judges: Mr. Contesta, Mr. Sukizo, and Eclectic City's Nurse Joy.)

Marian: (with proud excitement) Welcome one and everyone! My name is Marian and our next Pokemon Contest is underway! Let's get to our judges! (she extends her hand, leading everyone to the judges' panel.) Our first judge is the head of the Pokemon Contests, Mr. Contesta! Our second judge is the head of the Pokemon Fan Club, Mr. Sukizo! And our last judge is Eclectic City's own Nurse Joy! (attention is brought back to Marian) Let's start with the ever amazing Appeals Round where the beauty of each Pokemon's moves is showcased and judged!

(cut to the preparation room. The Coordinators' tensions are high, including Dawn. She puts her hand on her racing heart. She hears a familiar voice behind her and her friends.)

Irvine: Hey Dawn, are you ready for the contest?

(Dawn and the gang turn around to find their new friend Irvine dressed in a short sleeved black button down shirt, a black and white striped tie, white pants, black dress shoes, and a hat with a white rose sticking out of it.)

Irvine: (with a hand on Dawn's shoulder) I see you are nervous. You really shouldn't be too nervous because your Pokemon can feel this anxiety. If you are confident, then your Pokemon will feel the same way.

Dawn: (smiling) Thanks for the advice!

Loudspeaker: Dawn, please report to the stage.

Dawn: Well, I guess I'm going first. Wish me luck! (She runs out to the stage, prepared for her performance.)

Marian: And now it is time for our first contestant, Dawn!"

(A smile comes across Dawn's face as she remembers Irvine's advice. She takes her PokeBall, takes a running start and throws the PokeBall straight ahead.)

Dawn: Now Piplup! Spotlight! (Her PokeBall opens with a shower of hearts appearing before everyone while revealing her Piplup.)

Dawn: (with concentration) Piplup, let's start by using Whirlpool!

(Piplup produces a gigantic whirlpool and holds it there.)

Dawn: Now use Bubblebeam!

(Piplup then spits bubble after bubble into the whirlpool, causing them to spiral and swirl around the whirlpool.)

Marian: (to crowd) Dawn's Piplup is using the bubbles to surround the whirlpool to create a beautiful swirling effect!

Dawn: Now Piplup, let's finish by spinning and using Peck!"

(Piplup spins, beak elongating as bubble swirling whirlpool is above it. It jumps and attacks the whirlpool straight on, causing the whirlpool to break, sending mist and bubbles everywhere. A collective gasp enraptures the audience.)

Marian: Look at how the mist is reflecting off the sun's rays!

Mr. Contesta: It's amazing how Piplup was in its element!

Mr. Sukizo: It's absolutely remarkable!

Nurse Joy: (smiling) Seeing that Piplup break that whirlpool is beautifully brilliant!

(Back in the preparation room, Ash and Irvine has just finished watching Dawn's performance.)

Ash: (to Irvine) I wish you good luck with your round.

Irvine: Why, thank you!

Loudspeaker: Irvine, will you please report to the stage.

Irvine: Well, that's my cue to start my round. See you in a second" (He then runs out to the stage.)

Marian: Now it's time for a four time ribbon winning champion, never defeated before contestant. Give a welcome to your very own Irvine!"

(The crowd cheers for Irvine as he closes his eyes, taking a deep breath, and grabbing his PokeBall.)

Irvine: (with vitality) Kirlia, you're in the limelight!

(He tosses his PokeBall in the air and it opens, sending fireworks into the air. Kirlia then appears on the stage dancing.)

Irvine: Alright Kirlia, let's start off with a Psybeam!

(Kirlia's eyes glow and emanate a colorful beam skyward.)

Marian: (concerned) I don't know where this is headed to, (smiles) but I'm sure can't wait to see the finish!

Irvine: Spin around Kirlia!!

(Kirlia starts to spin around, causing the Psybeam to circle around Kirlia and spiraling in the air.)

(Meanwhile in the preparation room, Dawn and Ash are watching Irvine's performance.)

Dawn: (to Ash) What do you think he's doing?

Ash: I think he has something up his sleeve!

Irvine: (to Kirlia) Now! Let's use Psychic!

(Kirlia's eyes glow a light blue with the same outline around the Psybeam. The Psybeam stops in its place.)

Marian: (watching in amazement) The way Kirlia's Psychic caused the Psybeam to stop in its place gave the chance for the colors of the Psybeam to stand out! This is absolutely amazing!

Irvine: (to Marian) I'm not done yet! (to Kirlia) Let's finish this up by jumping in the air and incorporating your Psywave!

(Kirlia then jumps into the air while still spinning, and sends wave after wave of psychic energy, causing the frozen Psywave to separate in different directions and different angles. Kirlia descends next to Irvine and both of them take a bow. The crowd goes crazy and they start chanting Irvine's name over and over again.)

Marian: That is the most spectacular display of Psychic moves I have yet witnessed!

(Brock is hit with a realization in the preparation room.)

Brock: (to Ash and Dawn) Hey, remember when Irvine said something, but he stopped himself? I think he meant to say that he incorporates his attacks with his own or his opponent's attacks. I think both of you are in for a very intense battle!

(Dawn and Ash then look out on the stage, concerned and pondering about their future battles.)

(Back on the stage are more shouts from the crowd after Irvine's performance.)

Mr. Contesta: Your Kirlia is a really good handler of Psychic moves!

Mr. Sukizo: Absolutely remarkable!

Nurse Joy: Psychic Pokemon are awesome to behold and your Kirlia made me love them even more!

(As Irvine heads back to the preparation room, Jesselina prepares to go onstage)

Marian: Now it's time for our next Coordinator, Jesselina!

(Jessie, in her contest clothes, walks onto center stage, blowing kisses to the crowd. She then grabs her PokeBall in anticipation.)

Jesselina: (with a determined smile) Yanmega, let's do it the way it should be done!
(She throws her PokeBall in the air and it opens with a shower of hearts pouring out. Yanmega appears, fanning the hearts away with its dragonfly-like wings. It flies around Jesselina as she closes her eyes.)

Jesselina: Yanmega, let's start off with Sonic Boom!"

(Yanmega flies in front of Jesselina and flaps his wings, sending out waves of sonic booms out towards her.)

Jesselina: (unflinching) Now, Silver Wind!

(Yanmega then flaps furiously, starting an enormous silver-banded windstorm. The sonic booms get caught in the wind and start to fly around Jesselina.)

Marian: (excitedly) Seeing Jesselina's fearlessness with the sonic booms around her is certainly a sight to behold!

(The sonic booms meet in the center above Jesselina and collide into each other, causing an enormous shower of glittering explosions. The crowd gasps in awe.)

Marian: How those sonic booms collided in the air was absolutely gorgeous!

Mr. Contesta: Sonic Booms are pretty dangerous and are known to cause good damage, but that Yanmega knew how to handle it!

Mr. Sukizo: Indeed. Very remarkable!

Nurse Joy: I have never seen a Coordinator so fearless before. She wasn't afraid to get hit if something went wrong!

(Jesselina runs back to the preparation room. More contest performances are viewed and it is intermission. A few moments later, after careful consideration of the judges, Marian is back on the center of the arena with a microphone in her hand.)

Marian: (energetically) We are sorry this took so long. Here on the big screen are the people taking part in the next round, the Battle Round!

(The screen displays faces one by one on the screen, each having a shot at the next round for the Eclectic City Ribbon. Among the eight faces on the screen were Dawn, Irvine, and Jesselina. All three of them jump with joy and excitement that get to go to the next round.)

Marian: (to audience) Without further ado, the computer will now randomly generate who will fight against whom in the Battle Round!

(The computer randomly picks the contestants and the second round begins. Jesselina defeats her opponents with Seviper, Dawn storms the competition with Buneary, while Irvine defeats his opponents with an Ampharos. Time passes and the semi-final round begins.)

Marian: Now it's time for the semi-final round. The next matches are Irvine versus Ramon and Dawn versus Jesselina!

(With five minutes on the clock, Irvine manages to easily defeat his opponent. Dawn, Ash, Brock, and Jesselina watch backstage.)

Jesselina: (nervously, biting her nails) This is going to be a huge problem Irvine's really powerful. (to Dawn) Whoever wins our will have to face him.

(Dawn squeezes her Piplup tightly. Piplup squeals in pain. Dawn realizes what she is doing and releases Piplup.)

Loudspeaker: Will Dawn and Jesselina come to the stage please.

Dawn: (smiling, to Jesselina) Good luck, you'll need it! (She reaches for her Pokeball.) Piplup! Spotlight!

(Her PokeBall opens with a shower of hearts revealing Piplup ready for battle.)

Jesselina: Let's go Seviper! (She throws her PokeBall out and it opens with a flurry of musical notes revealing Seviper)

Marian: (shouts) Begin the match!

(The contest clock counts down. Dawn fights against Jesselina but ends up losing to her Seviper in the end by a knockout. Distraught, Dawn walks back to the preparation room with Jesselina close behind her.)

Jesselina: (mockingly, with a smirk) Think about the bright side, twerp…I mean Dawn; you can always enter the Grand Festival later!

Dawn: (retorts with a smile) Well, at least I don't have to fight Irvine in the final round. Good luck to you!

(This realization hits Jesselina hard and she is all of a sudden a bunch of nerves.)

Jesselina: (thinking) I don't know if I can do this. "Irvine has never lost a single Contest match. (But with determination) But I can't give up here. I want to become a top coordinator!

(A disappointed Dawn goes to her friends in the preparation room.)

Dawn: (sadly) I was hoping to battle Irvine at the end, but Jesselina beat me to him.

Irvine: (behind Dawn) Hey, you can still battle me, after the contest. I might be up to some more competition after all. (Dawn looks over her shoulder to see Irvine) Don't be so sad, Dawn, I would love to still battle you contest style. You have an impressive style about you.

Dawn: (with eyes wide open and a grin across your face) Thank you!

(Meanwhile, Jesselina talks to James and Meowth about her predicament with fighting Irvine. James reassures her.)

James: Jessie, you didn't have any problem with the other contestants and fighting that twerp Dawn was easy, why are you freaking out now?

Meowth: Yeah, you don't have to wimp out now, Jessie. Get out there and teach that guy a thing or two about losing!

Jesselina: (with fire in her eyes) You're right!

Loudspeaker: Jesselina and Irvine, please come out to the arena for the final match.

Jesselina: I will show this kid that I'm a force to be reckoned with!

(With this, she cackles loudly, making the people around her nervous. She then runs out on the stage. Meanwhile, the same announcement was made.)

Irvine: (taking a deep breath) Well, that's my cue. Wish me luck! (Runs off to the arena)

******​

​

(in the arena, Irvine and Jesselina are standing on opposite sides of each other, both excited and ready for the final round. Marian is in the center.)

Marian: (with vitality) It's time to determine the winner of the Eclectic City Contest Battle! It's all between Eclectic City's own Irvine and Majolica Town Contest Winner Jesselina!

(The crowd cheers and then falls silent. Irvine grabs his PokeBall.)

Irvine: (shouts excitedly) The spotlight is yours, Masquerain!

(He tosses his PokeBall into the air. It bursts open with a shower of feathers and Masquerain appears ready for battle.)

Jesselina: (scoffs) A flying type, eh? Well two can play at that game. (While tossing her PokeBall in the air) Yanmega, let's go! (The ball bursts open with a shower of hearts. Yanmega appears fanning the hearts away with its wings.)

Marian: (with excitement) Now it's time for the final round to start. Five minutes on the clock please! (to Irvine and Jesselina) Are you two ready!

(Jesselina and Irvine give the thumbs up while both their Pokemon do an aerial sommersault.)

Marian: (shouts) Begin!

(The timer starts to count down…)

+=+ To be continued… +=+​

 

[fordjon88]

It's good. I like contest Fics I kinda wanted to know how dawn loss through -_-

 

[Masquerainisthajam]

I'm gonna re-edit it some, but my mind is overflowing with awesome ideas!! Be patient!!

 

[Sgt Shock]

Contest fan-fiction are probably really fun once you do them. I couldn't bring myself to do one but I have a friend that is amazing at doing them.

I do like your fan fiction by the way.

 

[Masquerainisthajam]

Thanks, but I made some new changes to it. Instead of Irvine starting with Dewgong, I'm going to replace it with Kirlia.

 

[Masquerainisthajam]

Part II: Getting "Winded!"

The Eclectic City Saga: Part II
Getting "Winded"!

**In the last chapter, Ash and gang were on the way to Eclectic City for Dawn's next contest. On the way, they met Irvine who is a resident of that city and also the Gym Leader and a Contest Coordinator. After some great Contest rounds, it's all down to Irvine and Jesselina, Masquerain vs. Yanmega. Find out who wins…**

(The five minute contest clock starts counting down. Jesselina has the utmost determination on her face as she starts the first move.)

Jesselina: Yanmega, let's start by using Hidden Power!

(Yanmega summons a ball of white colored energy and hurls it at Masquerain. Irvine didn't look concerned in the least bit.)

Irvine: (to Jesselina) Good starter, but not good enough! (to Masquerain) Now Masquerain, cut that Hidden Power with your Razor Wind!

(Masquerain's wings glow and it flaps them once, sending two blades of wind towards the orb. It slices through the orb easily, causing a starry explosion)

Marian: (awestruck) Seeing Masquerain's Razor Wind like that made it show off some unique ways to cancel attacks!

(Jesselina's points start to decrease.)

Irvine: (points in the air) Masquerain, go high in the sky!"

(Masquerain flies upward to the ceiling.)

Irvine: (points to Yanmega) Now use Quick Attack!

(Masquerain dives toward Yanmega at all possible speed. Jesselina smiles.)

Jesselina: (retorts) You will not make a fool of me! Yanmega, use Steel Wing!

(Yanmega flies toward Masquerain, wings glowing. It hits Masquerain with a direct hit! Masquerain starts to fall from the sky.)

Marian: (exclaiming) That direct hit was amazing!

(Irvine's points start to decrease. However, right before Masquerain hits the ground, it regains itself and is in battle position, ready to fight some more. Jesselina snarls at the recovery.)

Irvine: (sneering at Jesselina) Nice move, Jesselina, but you can't knock down my Masquerain that easily!

(Jesselina's point decrease some more.)

Jesselina: (with determination in her eyes) Hmph! (to Yanmega) Keep it up Yanmega!

Irvine: (shouts) You too, Masquerain!

(Yanmega and Masquerain keep attacking each other and the battle becomes a total stalemate.)

Marian: (while clenching her microphone) Now this is what I call a combat in the skies!

Jesselina: (thinks) Oh man, this is a lot worse than I thought. I bet this isn't all he does! (out loud) Yanmega, use Sonic Boom!

(Yanmega flaps its wings extra hard, sending a wave of sonic energy towards Masquerain.)

Irvine: (smiling) Masquerain, dodge it and use Whirlwind!

(Masquerain does a roll to the right and then flaps its wings repeatedly, sending a tornado like wind toward Yanmega. Yanmega is trapped in the whirlwind.)

Marian: (exclaims) That dodge was amazing! I have never seen a Pokemon dodge hits that easily!

(Jesselina's points decrease some more. There are two minutes on the clock. Jesselina is starting to panic. Then she remembers...)

Jesselina: (with a spark in her eye) Now Yanmega, use Silver Wind!

(Yanmega, flaps his wings, sending a silver banded wind in the opposite direction. The whirlwind was cancelled out in a flurry of stars.)

Marian: (impressed) Look at that Yanmega, canceling out that Whirlwind by sending the Silver Wind in the other direction!

(Irvine is taken aback in surprise as his points decrease some more.)

Irvine: (shouting) WHAT? I had never seen this before. (to Jesselina) You are a worthy opponent, but now you must be defeated. (to Masquerain) Masquerain, Use Whirlwind!

(Masquerain flaps his wings repeatedly, sending tornadic winds towards Yanmega.)

Jesselina: I don't think so, buddy! Yanmega, meet his Whirlwind with your Silver Wind!

(Yanmega flaps his wings, sending a Silver Wind to meet Masquerain's Whirlwind. The winds collide, creating a gigantic crossfire made of a tornado with the Silver Wind banded in it. Everyone's clothes start to flap in the wind.)

Marian: (shouting as she is holding on to her microphone) Everybody hang on to something. You don't want to be caught in this storm! I have never seen such passion and drive in a Pokemon contest before but these two are certainly putting their best effort to it!

(There are 30 seconds left on the clock. The wind flaps around everyone's clothes. Suddenly, like the Majolica contest, the wind surrounding Jesselina causes the ribbons in her hair to fall to the ground. The wind streams through her hair, showing the sheen of her hair. The audience cheers as they hold on to their seats.)

(Ash, Dawn, and Brock along with their Pokemon are holding on to the railing in front of them in the audience, trying their best not to get caught in the storm.)

Ash: (holding on to the railing as tight as possible, screaming as he hopes to make his voice heard in the deafness of the "storm") This is WAY too intense for me!

(His Pikachu squeals in agreement as it holds tightly onto Ash's leg. Dawn decides to call Piplup back into its PokeBall. Both Coorinators are encouraging their Pokemon to keep it up as the crossfire is getting stronger and stronger and yet even stronger.)

Marian: (as she is getting the hair out of her face) You can see fatigue setting in on the Pokemon right now! Each one is giving it their all while fighting exhaustion to win this battle!

(The Pokemon are getting tired as their flapping gets weaker. The clock counts down. Five.......four.......three.......two.......one.......)

Marian: (shouts) TIME'S UP!

(The crowd cheers and applauds for both Coordinators as the intense windstorm clears and both Yanmega and Masquerain are on the ground, extremely tired. Thoughts are going through both Irvine's and Jesselina's minds.)

Marian: (breathing a sigh of relief) That was a very intense battle. Now according to our judges, let's see who had won.

(Everyone looks up at the screen and sees that both Coordinators had the same exact point level.)

Marian: (in shock) Oh my goodness. For the first time ever in Pokemon Contest history, both Coordinators have tied! That means both Coordinators will win the Eclectic City Contest Ribbon!

(The crowd goes insane as Jesselina runs to her Yanmega and Irvine runs to his Masquerain)

Jesselina: (with concern) Yanmega, are you all right? (Yanmega responds weakly) Well then, you deserve a long rest. Return. (Yanmega is returned into her PokeBall. She goes to the center to meet Irvine.)

Irvine: (to Masquerain) Are you okay? (Masquerain responds weakly) You had an intense battle. You might need to go in your PokeBall for a bit. Return! (His Masquerain is returned into its PokeBall. He then goes to meet Jesselina in the center.)

Irvine: (smiling and with awe to Jesselina) My, my, my. I had never been defeated in a Contest before, but I managed to tie to you! You certainly have such passion and drive in your contest training! (he extends his hand)

Jesselina: (to Irvine) I never thought I would come to face someone like you. I didn't think I was going to beat you, more or less tie with you. You certainly are the best! (she shakes his hand)

( The crowd goes crazy once again.)

******​

(Contest awards ceremony. Jesselina and Irvine are standing in the center of the arena with their Yanmega and Masquerain. Behind them are Mr. Contesta, Mr. Sukizo, and Nurse Joy. Marian is in front of them, holding the microphone.)

Marian: Now it is time for the awards ceremony where Mr. Contesta will hand the ribbons to the winners of this contest!

(Mr. Contesta makes it to the center of the stage with the ribbons in each hand.)

Mr. Contesta: (happily) It is my esteemed pleasure to present the Eclectic City Contest Ribbons to both Irvine and Jesselina for their extremely hard work in training their Pokemon and battling today!

Mr. Sukizo: The way you used your Pokemon to their best, including the last battle was remarkable!

Nurse Joy: I had never seen flying Pokemon be at their fiercest like that and I wish you both the best in the future!

(Jesselina and Irvine look at each other, smile, and takes the ribbons from Mr. Sukizo and raises them proudly in the air, prompting the crowd to shout their names repeatedly.)

Marian: That marks the end of this Contest. The next Contest is to be announced. Thank you for coming out today and witnessing history in the making!

******​

​

(It was the end of the contest, and as Ash, Dawn, and Brock are walking out, Irvine catches up behind them.)

Irvine: (with concern) Hey guys. Where do you think you are going?

Ash: (smiling, to Irvine) Oh, we are going to take a walk around the city!

Irvine: Okay. Well, you still have that Gym Battle with me! I will be ready for you. Tomorrow at 1 p.m.? (extends his hand)

Ash: (excitedly) You bet! And I am going to win that Randomize Badge from you! (shakes Irvine's extended hand)

Irvine: (devilish smile) A word of warning, Ash, I use all kinds of Pokemon; that's my specialty. You never know until the last second which Pokemon I am going to use. (looking at Masquerain) Isn't that right, Masquerain?

(The Masquerain beside him flies around our heroes.)

Irvine: (looks at his watch, then back to the group) Well, it's time for me to head out and prepare for tomorrow. Take some time out to look around a bit. You'll see why they call it Eclectic City!

Ash: Sure! See you tomorrow!

(Ash and gang walk deeper into the city as Irvine sees them off.)

(No wonder the civilians call it Eclectic City. There are building of all shapes, sizes, and colors abound. People are wearing all kinds of crazy colors and materials. Ash, Dawn, and Brock look around in sheer amazement.)

Dawn: (in awe) No wonder they call it Eclectic City!

Brock: (looks at the map section of the PokeGuide) The landmarks are very easy to find here. According to the map, the Eclectic City Gym is colored a solid blue.

Ash: Apparently, everything's easy to find. That's nice and all, but we have a match to win. Isn't that right, Pikachu?

(His Pikachu squeals in agreement. The gang heads to the Pokemon center, train their Pokemon, and retire for the night.)

******​

(Meanwhile, Jessie is boasting about her contest win to James and Meowth.)

Jessie: (Marching around in pride) I can't believe I won another contest!

James: (matter-of-factly) You do realize, of course, that you just tied with Irvine and not won, right?

Meowth: That guy was a pretty tough character to beat, more or less tie to!

Jessie: (in jubilee) I don't care what you two say. I won another ribbon! I'm one step closer to the Grand Festival!

Irvine's voice: Hey, you look familiar.

Jessie/James/Meowth: (in a nervous shock) Who was that? (They turn around to find Irvine with his Masquerain behind them.)

Irvine: (pointing to Jessie) Yeah you, with the red hair. You look extremely familiar, like I've seen you before.

(Jessie gets nervous. Thoughts are running through her head.)

Jessie: (with a small weak, trembling voice) I d…d…don't remember seeing you. M…m…must have mistaken me for another.

(Irvine stares at her, she stares at him back for what seems like an eternity.)

Irvine: (smiles) Okay, sorry I was mistaken. Oh by the way, I have a Gym Battle tomorrow at 1 p.m. Interested in coming?

Jessie: Uh, sure. I'll be happy to!

Irvine: (fist clenched) Alright, see you then! Come on Masquerain! (he runs off back towards the direction of the Gym with Masquerain close behind him.)

(All three of the Team Rocket gang take a deep breath and sigh heavily.)

Jessie: (exhaling) Whew! That was too close to call!

James/Meowth: Same here! (their Wobuffet pops out.)

******​

(On the next day, Jessie, James and Meowth, along with Ash and the gang are in the Eclectic City Gym. Ash is on one side of the battlefield, Dawn and Brock are on one side of the stands with their Piplup, Happiny, Buneary, and Pachirisu, while Jessie, James and Meowth are on the other side of the stands with their Mime Jr. and Wobuffet. The referee stands in middle on the boundary of the battlefield.

Referee: (out loud) Today is the day we have been waiting for. On my right is the challenger from Pallet Town in the Kanto region, Ash Ketchum!

(Jessie has a realization)

Jessie: (to James and Meowth) Hey, Irvine invited us to watch him fight that twerp, Ash!

Referee: And now on my left is the role model of Eclectic City, and Grand Festival eligible Coordinator, Irvine!

(The doors on the other side open, and Irvine walks through them with his Masquerain close behind him.)

Irvine: (with a smirk on his face) So Ash, are you ready to battle me?

Ash: (with his fists clenched and a smile with his heart pumping) You bet, Irvine!

Referee: This will be a special 3 on 4 Pokemon battle and the match is over when all of one person's Pokemon are unable to battle. Only the challenger is allowed to substitute Pokemon. Also as a special rule, the challenger is allowed to fight with four Pokemon. Irvine, Ash, are you both ready to battle?

Ash/Irvine: You bet!

Referee: Okay, let the battle begin!

Ash: (grabbing his PokeBall) Staraptor, I choose you!

(He tosses his PokeBall and out pops a Staraptor, the evolved form of Staravia.)

Irvine: I should let you know, Ash, I don't play by advantages. Therefore, I call forth my Grass Type, Meganium!
(He tosses his PokeBall and out comes a Meganium, the evolved form of Bayleef.)

+=+ To be continued… +=+​

 

[Masquerainisthajam]

Part III: A Gym Battle of Epic Randomness!


The Eclectic City Saga: Part III
A Battle of Epic Randomness !

**In the last chapter, Irvine and Jesselina fought in the Eclectic City Contest. They tied in the end and were both presented the Contest Ribbon. Later on, Ash challenged Irvine to a Gym Battle for the Randomize Badge. For the first match, Ash calls out Staraptor while Irvine calls out Meganium.**

(The story continues…)

Referee: (shouts) Begin!

Ash: Now Staraptor, use Quick Attack!

(Staraptor speeds toward Meganium with all force. Irvine smirks.)

Irvine: (sneering) Are you seriously going to attack me head on like that? Meganium, use Magical Leaf!

(Meganium then pulls leaf after glowing green leaf after Staraptor. Staraptor dodges them inside and out while still headed for Meganium.)

Irvine: (to Ash) Thank me for the distraction! (to Meganium) Now Meganium, use Leaf Storm!

(Meganium summons a windstorm of leaves and hurls it at Staraptor. Staraptor is then caught in a very strong headwind with the leaves attacking it at the same time. Up in the stands, Brock has his hand on his chin looking concerned.)

Brock: Ash might be in trouble. Irvine is using the element of distraction to gain the upper hand.

Dawn: You think so? I thought Irvine would normally defend that attack if it was head on.

Brock: But remember, Irvine doesn't play by advantages. He knew that Quick Attack would damage Meganium, so he threw in a diversion to throw Ash off course. Also not to mention, Staraptor was spending too much time dodging that Magical Leaf attack.

(Meanwhile, on the field, Ash's Staraptor is suffering a lot of damage from being caught in the headwind suffering from the leaves the Leaf Storm was hitting it with.)

Irvine: (to Meganium, smiling) Next, incorporate your Magical Leaf into the storm!

(Meganium then sends the same glowing leaves into the storm, causing even greater damage to Ash's Staraptor.)

Ash: (cries out) Staraptor! Gust!

(Staraptor proceeds to flap his wings, sending a breeze in the other direction, cancelling out the Leaf Storm and the Magical Leaf. Irvine stands impressed.)

Irvine: I'm very impressed, but this is just the beginning. I see you paid attention to the Contest battle on yesterday when Jesselina canceled my Whirlwind. What I meant to tell you when we first met was that I knew how to incorporate my attacks or an opponent's attacks and use it against them. But, I'd rather you find out than me telling you.

Ash (thinking) So that's his strategy. I must try to stay one step ahead of this guy. (out loud) Now Staraptor, use Aerial Ace!

(Staraptor flies high in the air and then starts to swoop down toward Meganium. )

Irvine: Meganium, use Sweet Scent!

(Meganium emanates a sweet smelling spice from its leaves coming towards Staraptor. Staraptor smells the scents, stops the attack, and then starts to fly around Meganium in Attract status.)

Ash: (concerned, shouting) What's going on?

Brock: (cupping his hands, yelling to Ash) Ash! (Ash turns to him) Sweet Scent hits your Pokemon with Attract status. It will not be able to attack unless it stops smelling the scent!

Irvine: (to Ash) Your friend is right indeed. What are you going to do this time?

(Ash is scratching his head, confused about what to do next. While he is thinking, Irvine starts the next attack.)

Irvine: Meganium, use Sunny Day!

(Meganium then gathers a small white ball of energy from its mouth and shoots it upward. The stadium, for it had a skylight, and the day got intensely brighter.)

Irvine: (to Meganium) Now stop the Sweet Scent and start Solarbeam!

(Meganium stops the Sweet Scent attack and starts gathering energy from the sun to charge its attack.)

Ash: (smiling) Now I know I can hit Meganium now! It can only fire the Solarbeam after a few seconds. Staraptor…

(Meganium fires the Solarbeam in a matter of a few seconds, hitting Staraptor, causing it to fall to the floor, knocked out.)

Referee: (puts his arm straight out) Staraptor is unable to battle. (raises his hand to Irvine's side) The victor of this match goes to Meganium.

Ash: (dismayed) Staraptor, return! (His PokeBall shoots a red beam at Staraptor, putting the Pokemon back in. To Irvine.) Hey, how come that Solarbeam was so fast in firing?

Irvine: Because, my friend, I use Sunny Day to strengthen my Pokemon's Grass Type moves, and I also trained it to fire in a short time. It was really time consuming, but it was worth it!

(Meanwhile, Jessie, James and Meowth are watching the Gym Battle from the other side of the Gym, checking out Irvine's strategy.)

Jessie: (smiling) Oh, attack incorporation! That sounds like a very good idea!

James: It's perfect to bring that twerp and his gang of goody two shoes down!

Meowth: Plus, we can teach your Pokemon how to do that, so we can capture Pikachu a lot easier.

(All three of them start to laugh as they continually watch the battle go on.)

(Down at the field, Irvine asks Ash to select his second Pokemon. Ash selects a PokeBall and tosses it in the air.)

Ash: Chimchar, I choose you!

(Chimchar pops out of the PokeBall, ready for battle.)

Irvine: (with excitement) Oh, you choose Chimchar, eh? Let's see how this match will end. It's your turn.

Ash: You asked for it! Chimchar, use Flame Wheel!

(Chimchar gets a flame going in its mouth, and then starts spinning like a wheel towards Meganium. Irvine smiles.)

Irvine: Meganium, use Leaf Storm and incorporate Magical Leaf into it!

(Meganium generates a leaf storm with the glowing green leaves and throws it at Chimchar, stopping the Flame Wheel while inflicting damage on Chimchar at the same time. Dawn looks a little confused.)

Dawn: (to Brock) How did Chimchar's Flame Wheel get cancelled? It's a Fire-Type move.

Brock: Sure it's a Fire-Type move, but Leaf Storm carries a Gust quality to it, causing the flame in that Flame Wheel to go out.

(Down at the field…)

Irvine: Come on Ash, you have got to do better than this!

Ash: (smirking) Oh, I got something better! Chimchar, use Dig!

(Chimchar digs a hole in the ground and jumps in it. Meganium stops the attack and looks around trying to find where the Chimchar went. Irvine is just as confused as Meganium is.)

Ash: Now Chimchar! Jump out and use Flame Wheel once more!

(Chimchar jumps out behind Meganium and generates the same Flame Wheel and headed for Meganium. It hits Meganium with a direct hit.)

Ash: (to Chimchar) Follow that up with a Flamethrower!

(Chimchar spins around in the same Flame Wheel, stops the attack and fires a Flamethrower at Meganium and it lands with another direct hit. Meganium falls to the ground, knocked out.)

Referee: (arm out) Meganium is unable to battle. (raises hand to Ash's side) Chimchar wins this match!

Irvine: (inquiringly, to Ash) How did you beat my Meganium?

Ash: It's simple actually. Before my Turtwig evolved into a Grotle, it was able to move around quickly. I figured out the same thing with your Meganium, before it evolved from Bayleef and Chikorita. When my Turtwig evolved into Grotle, it couldn't move as fast to avoid attacks. I figured that was the same case as you.

Irvine: Ah, very impressive, (he calls Meganium back into its PokeBall) but I have another Pokemon for you to battle. A Dragon Type, as a matter of fact. Dragonair, let's go! (He tosses another PokeBall into the air. Dragonair pops out of the PokeBall, ready to go. Irvine smiles.) It's your turn.

Ash: Okay. Then I might just have to change up on Pokemon. Chimchar, return! (Ash calls Chimchar back into his PokeBall.) I'm going to use a Water-type this time! Buizel, I choose You!

(He tosses another PokeBall into the air. It pops open and Buizel appears, ready for battle.)

Ash: (thinking) Man, this guy is tougher than I thought. Maybe I should use the Counter-Shield technique I used against Fantina in the Hearthome City Gym Battle. (out loud) Buizel! Use Sonic Boom!

(Buizel jumps in the air and spins around, his tail sending a wave of sonic energy towards Dragonair.)

Irvine: Dragonair, dodge it and use Confuse Ray!

(Dragonair slithers quickly to the side avoiding the Sonic Boom and fires a golden colored ray towards Buizel. Ash smiles.)

Ash: (with excitement) I knew you were going to do that! (to Buizel) Now spin and use Water Gun!

(Buizel gets on the ground, spins around, and fires a Water Gun from its mouth, sending it in all directions. The Water Gun completely knocks out the Confuse Ray, not to mention that it's also damaging Dragonair at the same time.)

Irvine: (smiling) Well, well, well, if it isn't the good ol' Counter-Shield! You knocked out Dragonair's Confuse Ray while damaging my Dragonair at the same time! But, my dear friend, you will not have the upper hand! Dragonair, now you spin and use Ice Beam!

(Dragonair starts to spin, shooting a bluish white beam from its mouth in all directions causing the water from the Water Gun to freeze and fall on the ground as shards of ice. Buizel stops in awe, astounded that the Counter-Shield worked for a short time. Ash stares, his jaw dropping.)

Ash: (shouts) What?!

Irvine: (matter-of-factly) Nice strategy, Ash, but you won't win this battle so easily! Dragonair, hit the ice shards at Buizel with your tail!"

(Dragonair takes its tail and flings the ice shards with it, causing the shards to fly toward Buizel with all possible speed.)

Ash: Buizel, dodge that and use Aqua Jet!

(Buizel dodges the ice shards, and then envelops itself in water and leaps towards Dragonair.)

Irvine: (laughing) I got you right where I want you, Ash! Dragonair! Use Dragon Rage!

(Dragonair shoots a red and white flame like beam towards Buizel's Aqua Jet. The Dragon Rage collides with the Aqua Jet, cancelling it and sending Buizel backwards and on the ground.

Irvine: Now Dragonair, use Constrict!

(Dragonair slithers towards Buizel and wraps itself around Buizel, squeezing it. Buizel cries out in pain.)

Ash: (cries out) Buizel!

(Buizel struggles to get free from Dragonair's grip.)

Irvine: Like I said before, I got you right where I want you. Dragonair, Confuse Ray!

(Dragonair shoots the same golden colored ray at Buizel. The ray hits it and now Buizel's eyes glow purple and is dazed. Dragonair lets go of Buizel. Buizel staggers around the battleground with Confuse status. On the seats of the Gym, Brock and Dawn are astounded by the performance.)

Dawn: (astounded) Wow, Irvine is tricking Ash left and right.

Brock: You see, Irvine keeps distracting Ash with flashy moves that seem to do damage. Ash is trying to dodge and use head on attacks, but Irvine is continually blindsiding him.

(Back on the floor, Irvine is about to announce his next attack.)

Irvine: Dragonair, let's finish this off with Dragon Rage!"

(Dragonair shoots the same white and red flame-like beam towards Buizel.)

Ash: (desperately) Buizel, dodge it!

(However, due to Buizel's confusion, it is unable to dodge it. Instead, it hurts itself. Not only did Buizel hit itself, Dragonair's Dragon Rage hits Buizel with full force. Buizel takes the damage and it falls, knocked out.)

Referee: (arm out) Buizel is unable to battle! (raises hand to Irvine's side) Dragonair is the winner of this match!

Irvine: (to Ash) I told you not be distracted. I have more up my sleeve than you think! Call out your next Pokemon, you only got two left!

Ash: (to Pikachu) Hey Pikachu, do you think you can handle this?

(Pikachu looks back at Ash, smiles, and then runs out to the field.)

Ash: I'm ready, Irvine!

Irvine: Alright! Dragonair, use Dragon Rage!

(Dragonair fires the white and red flame-like beam towards Pikachu. Ash now has a smile on his face.)

Ash: Alright, Pikachu! Spin and use Thunderbolt!

(Pikachu spins and emanates a super electric attack that constantly bombards Dragonair with electricity. Dragonair cannot move; it's paralyzed.)

Ash: (smart-alecky) What do you think about that, Irvine?

Dawn: (shouting from the stands) There you go, Ash!

(Dawn shouts from the stands. Pachirisu, Buneary, and Piplup are squealing in delight.)

Ash: Now Pikachu, use Volt Tackle!

(Pikachu charges towards Dragonair, its whole body emanating electrical energy. It runs faster and faster. It hits Dragonair successfully.)

Ash: You see, Irvine, you might be able to block my water Counter-Shield, but you can't dodge an electrical one!

Irvine: (laughs) I didn't expect for my Dragonair to be paralyzed with a Electric Counter-Shield. However, you might want to eat those words later on. Dragonair, use Safeguard, then Constrict!

(Dragonair's entire body glows a beautiful yellowish green, cancelling out the Paralysis and then it starts to spring towards Pikachu, ready to wrap its body around its opponent.)

Ash: (smiling) Now you're attacking me with a head-on attack! Now Pikachu, Iron Tail!

(Pikachu's tail glows a solid white and runs towards Dragonair. Pikachu jumps and whips its tail on Dragonair. The hit lands on Dragonair with such force. Dragonair falls on the ground, knocked out.)

Referee: (arm out) Dragonair is unable to battle. (raises hand on Ash's side) The winner of this match is Pikachu.

Irvine: (with interest in his voice) I must admit, Ash, I am impressed. I'm quite honored to have fought an opponent like you, really I am. Most people wouldn't be able to get past my Dragonair. Well, those who DO get past my Dragonair won't win against my Flying Type! (He looks at his Masquerain.) Now I send my Flying-type, Masquerain, to battle!

(Masquerain flies out to the field, ready to fight.)

Irvine: (reminding Ash with a smile) Just remember Ash, I don't play by advantages. How are you going to fight this battle? It's your turn!

Ash: Like this! Pikachu, use Quick Attack!

(Pikachu runs toward Masquerain with full force. Irvine smiles once again.)

Irvine: (mockingly) Why the rush? You must really like doing head on attacks. I must teach you a lesson. Masquerain, use Whirlwind!

(Masquerain flaps its wings furiously, sending a tornado of wind at Pikachu. Pikachu's attack is stopped and it gets trapped in the wind. Pikachu is then lifted off of its feet, absolutely helpless.)

Irvine: (to Ash) You see, my friend, your Pikachu isn't able to move much at all. Now watch this. (to Masquerain) Masquerain, incorporate Razor Wind!

(Masquerain, still flapping its wings with the Whirlwind, has its wings glow white. It then flaps once to send two blades of wind towards the Whirlwind. The wind-blades fly in and out of the Whirlwind, constantly damaging Pikachu at the same time.)

Jessie: (from the stands, to Team Rocket in awe) Wow! Irvine could've done that to me at the Contest. I would've lost if he had done that!

(Back on the floor, Irvine now is enjoying the action taking place as the wind is flapping around everyone's clothes.)

Ash: (shouts) Pikachu!

Irvine: Your Pikachu is helpless. Now Masquerain, Hypnosis!

(Masquerain's eyes glow then the energy travels to the wings, causing the wings to glow. Pikachu is fooled by the eye-like wings and falls fast asleep. He is hit with Sleep status.)

Ash: (confused) Wait a minute! But those are wings on your Masquerain.

Irvine: Check this out. The wings on my Masquerain look like a pair of eyes. Other Pokemon are easily fooled by this. Now your Pikachu has Sleep Status. I'm going to finish this off. Masquerain, stop all attacks and finish this off with a Quick Attack!

(Masquerain then stops flapping its wings and then proceeds to dive towards Pikachu with all possible speed. It hits Pikachu with a direct hit, knocking Pikachu out.)

Referee: (arm out) Pikachu is unable to battle. (Hand up on Irvine's side) Masquerain is the winner!

Irvine: (scoffing) Come on, Ash, you've got to do better than this! You have Chimchar left. It's your turn.

(Ash carries out Pikachu and calls out Chimchar.)

Ash: (thinking) Man, that Masquerain is one tough Pokemon, and Irvine is one tough opponent! (out loud) Chimchar, use Scratch!

(Chimchar's fingers glow as he approaches Masquerain. Irvine smirks._

Irvine: Nice, but you can't fool me Ash! Masquerain, dodge it and use Hypnosis!

(Masquerain rolls to the right and is about to use its eye-like wings to hypnotize Chimchar.)

Ash: Now, Chimchar, use Dig!

(Chimchar digs in the ground just before Masquerain hypnotizes it. Irvine smiles.)

Irvine: Okay, you think you might be able to attack my Masquerain like you did Meganium, but that's not going to work again this time! Masquerain, Double Team!

(Masquerain spits into multiple copies of itself and waits for Chimchar to come back up. Chimchar comes back up on the ground, but is confused by the many Masquerain surrounding it.)

Ash: (thinks for a second, then says) Chimchar, spin and use Flamethrower on the Masquerain!

(Chimchar starts to get rid of some of the Masquerain copies. Irvine smiles once again)

Irvine: Now Masquerain, use Razor Wind!

(The remaining Masquerain copies make their wings glow white, and then they flap their wings, sending blades of wind toward the Flamethrower. They collide and cancel out each other.)

Irvine: Now, Whirlwind!

(The Masquerain copies generate a massive whirlwind, lifting Chimchar off the ground. Irvine laughs.)

Irvine: I love it when a plan comes together! Now Masquerain, Hypnosis!

(The Masquerain copies disappear while the real Masquerain's eye-like wings glow, fooling Chimchar. Chimchar falls asleep, hit with Sleep status.)

Ash: (cries out) Chimchar! No…

Irvine: Okay Masquerain, let's finish this off with one more Razor Wind!

(Masquerain sends the same blades of wind toward Chimchar, hitting it with full force, knocking it out.)

Referee: (arm out) Chimchar is unable to battle. (arm raised to Irvine's side) The winner of this match goes to Masquerain. The winner of this Gym Battle is Irvine!

(Ash, extremely downcast, calls Chimchar back into its PokeBall. His friends and Irvine come to console him.)

Dawn: (comforting) Hey Ash, you did really well!

Brock: Yeah, he was a tough opponent, but you managed to fare out just fine!

Irvine: You know, Ash, usually I fight people who are all but a challenge to me. You actually gave me a run for my money. You actually inspired me to train more with my Pokemon. And with that, I thank you.

(He extends his hand to Ash, in which Ash shakes it gracefully.)

Ash: (smiling) Thanks, man!

Irvine: Let me do you guys a favor. I want to take you all to my rose garden at my house. This garden is like none other in the world, not to mention it's legendary. Care to come?

Ash/Dawn/Brock: You bet!

Irvine: I'll see you in front of the Pokemon Center tomorrow morning, then!

(Irvine leaves with his Masquerain close behind him. The gang heads out to the Pokemon Center to have Ash's Pokemon healed. Nurse Joy tells Ash that his Pokemon are just exhausted and will do fine in the morning. With that, they retire for the night. Team Rocket leaves, but are now intrigued by the thought of a legendary rose garden.)

+=+ To be continued… +=+​

 

[Masquerainisthajam]

Part IV: Roses are Red...and Green, and Blue, and Yellow, and White...

The Eclectic City Saga: Part IV
Roses are Red…and Green, and Blue, and Yellow, and White…

**In the last chapter, Ash challenged Irvine, the Gym Leader of Eclectic City, to a Gym Battle. Despite all the efforts made, Ash lost to Irvine. Ash and friends are now at the Pokemon Center, about to go to Irvine's legendary rose garden.**

(The sun rises over a new day at Eclectic City. Ash, Pikachu, Dawn and Brock are preparing to head to the rose garden. As soon as they exit the Pokemon Center, they meet up with Irvine and his Masquerain flying alongside him.)

Irvine: (smiling) Hey guys! How was your morning?

Ash: It was great, thank you! (his Pikachu agrees)

Irvine: Is everything alright after my Gym Battle with you? Because you know I'm concerned about the people who challenge me!

Ash: Everything's cool. You're definitely a tough opponent! No wonder people can't beat you the first time! (extends hand to Irvine, who shakes it gratefully)

Irvine: (smiling, as if one is blushing) Oh stop! It's just my fighting style, that's all! You just have to avoid my distractions, that's all!

Dawn: (to Irvine) I definitely agree! But Irvine, I really want to see your rose garden! (like a 5 year old) Can we go now? Please??

Irvine: (to Dawn) Now Dawn, you must be patient! We will get to the rose garden soon enough!

Brock: (to Dawn and Ash while flipping through the guidebook) Well according to this PokeGuide, the rose garden in Eclectic City is one of the landmarks of the Sinnoh region. People come from miles around for tours.

Irvine: That's true! The rose garden here is extremely popular and it counts for a lot of the commerce in this city. But since Ash is a challenger for the badge, I will let you and your friends in for free! I do this for all the challengers. Are you interested in my offer?

Ash/Dawn/Brock: (smiling) You bet! (Pikachu and Piplup squeal in happiness)

Irvine: That's awesome! (his Masquerain flies around the group multiple times) Just follow me, okay?

Ash: That's fine!

(Ash and friends follow Irvine on the pathway to the rose garden. Meanwhile, while they are having a conversation, Team Rocket is looking through their binoculars, spying on the group.)

James: (to Jessie and Mewoth) Well, well, a rose garden, huh? This I gotta see!

Jessie: I know! Think of all the roses we'll see…and then steal!

Meowth: I don't know guys. Every time we try to steal something, we always get caught and then go blasting off again by those twerps!

Jessie: (to Meowth) Come on scaredy Meowth! You should be used to it!

Meowth: (went from a scared look to determined) You know, you're right! Let's go get those roses and then Pikachu!

(They all take their own route to the rose garden.)

******​

(Ash and friends, along with Irvine, are walking down the pathway to the Rose Garden. On the way, they see a girl wearing a white T-shirt, a black vest, black pants and white knee-high boots and shoulder length black hair with a PokeBall hairpin. Next to her is a Glaceon.)

Irvine: (excited gasp) Priscilla! You're here! (runs to hug Priscilla. Brock looks downcast. Irvine turns back to the gang.) Oh guys, this is my sister Priscilla. She's working on becoming one of the Elite Four!

Priscilla: (smiles) It's nice to meet you all! This (pointing to her Glaceon) is my Pokemon Glaceon.

Ash: (to Priscilla) Hey, I'm Ash and (pointing to Pikachu) this is my best friend, Pikachu! (Pikachu squeaks happily) I'm working on becoming the world's greatest Pokemon Master and possibly become part of the Elite 4!

Dawn: Hi! My name is Dawn and I plan on becoming a Top Coordinator! (she gets shoved out of the way by Brock) Hey!

BrocK: (absolutely gaga to Priscilla. He holds Priscilla's hand and is on one knee.) Hey, my name is Brock and I want to become a Pokemon Breeder, but I also want to become the professor of love. Let me sweep you off your feet. I want to be by your beautiful side forever. I think about people like you in my dreams. I…YAAAH!

(Brock is then hit in the side by Croagunk's Poison Jab. Brock falls to the ground.)

Brock: (in pain as he is falling) Well, I guess I'll keep dreaming because this is a reality! (his Croagunk drags him away, while everyone else laughs awkwardly)

Irvine: (to Priscilla) Anyway, Priscilla, I want to take my friends to the rose garden. Do you care to come with?

Priscilla: (smiling) Sure! I need a break anyway from my training. (Her Glaceon agrees totally with her)

Ash: (curiously, to Priscilla) Training? For what?

Irvine: Oh, what I forgot to tell you is that my sister Priscilla is a Gym Leader.

(collected gasps from all around)

Brock: (surprised) Really? Which Gym?

Priscilla: (elbows Irvine, in which Irvine rubs his side in pain) Irv, I was going to tell them! (to Ash and gang) I'm the Gym Leader of Sonataville.

Dawn: (to Priscilla) Where and what is Sonataville?

Priscilla: It's a town not far from Eclectic City. Just like its name, it's a place of musical prowess. I specialize in Pokemon that use musical type moves.

Brock: Oh, like Sing and Metronome?

Priscilla: (excitedly) Yeah, like that! Exactly like that! I also use the dances and other moves. Just like my brother Irv, I use different Pokemon types.

Ash: (sighs) Oh great… (he hangs his head)

Priscilla: (concerned, to Ash) What's wrong?

Dawn: Well, yesterday Ash had a Gym battle with Irvine and he lost. He really wanted that Randomize Badge from him.

Priscilla: (half smiles) That's exactly like my brother. Nobody has ever beaten him the first time, so he shouldn't be too down about that. (to Ash) Isn't that right?

Ash: (smiles) You know, you have a point there! When I fought against other Gym Leaders, I had to fight some of them a second time like Whitney of Goldenrod City and Fantina of Hearthome City.

Brock: It looks like Ash got his spark back!

Irvine: It looks like it indeed! We should be at the rose garden really soon. I know you all are excited.

Brock/Ash/Dawn: (smiling) You bet! (Pikachu and Piplup squeal in happiness. Masquerain does an aerial somersault.)

*********​

​

(Our heroes, along with Irvine and his sister Priscilla, arrive at some huge oak doors fringed with steel at the end of the pathway. Irvine pulls the doorbell cord. A voice is heard over the loudspeaker.)

Voice: Who wants to go in the rose garden?

Irvine: Father, it's me, Irvine. I'm here with Priscilla and a few other friends.

Voice: (excited) Irvine and Priscilla?! Well come on in! Come on in!

(the big steel lined doors swing open in front of the group revealing a cobblestone walkway lined with red and white roses. The group gasps in awe. At the end of the walkway is a man wearing blue jeans with grass stains, a green shirt and a straw hat standing in front of a large manor. The man is waving at the group. Irvine and Priscilla smile.)

Irvine: Father!

Priscilla: Daddy!

(they both run to the man, hugging him. The man spins them around as they are being hugged. He then stops.)

Irvine: Father, you should meet some new friends I had made! (He escorts the man to Ash, Dawn, and Brock.) This (pointing to Brock) is Brock. He wants to be the greatest Pokemon Breeder.

Priscilla: This person (pointing to Dawn) is Dawn. She wants to be a top Coordinator.

Irvine: And this (pointing to Ash) is my current challenger. His name is Ash. He wants to be a Pokemon Master and part of the Elite 4! (to the group) Hey guys, this is my father, Sullivan, but you can call him Sully. He's the manager of the rose garden. This is one of the most popular places in the world.

Sullivan: That's right, Irv, my boy! (with arms wide open) We have over 490 roses here!

Ash: (inquiringly, to Sullivan) Why over 490?

Brock: (flipping through his guide) According to this guide, each rose represents a Pokemon, and there's about over 490 of them.

Sullivan: But what you don't know is that each rose resembles a Pokemon by color and/or personality. That's what makes my Rose Garden so popular! (looking at Pikachu, then smiles) Let's see, your Pikachu is an Electric-type, yellow, black with red cheeks and a lightning bolt tail. Let me escort you all to rose #25, which is your Pokemon's number. It's in the electric section. (takes out a PokeBall and throws it) Roserade, come on out! (the ball opens and Roserade appears) Hey Roserade, do you think you can escort us to the electric section to rose #25?

(Roserade gladly accepts and starts walking inside the manor. Everyone else follows along inside the manor. Team Rocket are about to come to the end of the path as soon as they walk inside…)

********​

(Inside the manor…)

(Ash, Dawn, Brock, Pikachu, Piplup, Irvine, Masquerain, Priscilla, Glaceon, Sullivan, and Roserade are inside the manor hallway. The hallway is lined with glass doors with various insignias on them. Sullivan leads them to a glass door marked with a lightning insignia. He turns around and talks to the group.)

Sullivan: Okay guys, this is where I keep all the roses made for Electric-type Pokemon. Some of the things you might see or hear might surprise you. With that being said, enter at your own risk. (He pulls out a key shaped like a lightning bolt. He puts the key in the respective lock and turns it. The door swings open and everyone walks in.)

(Inside the Electric Room, a strobe light is constantly flickering. On the big screen in the back of the room is a video of lightning flashing. On the walls and the floor contain vines loaded with roses. Everyone looks around in awe. Sullivan looks at the group laughing at the wide-eyed, jaw-dropped expressions on Ash, Dawn, and Brock's faces.)

Sullivan: (to the group) This is the Electric Room. As you can see, there are roses out the wazoo here. Each rose has a picture of the Pokemon and it has the Pokemon's colors. You wanted to see Pikachu's rose, right? (to Roserade) Roserade, can you locate #25? (to Ash) Once we find it, can you pick it up? The vine won't break, I promise you!

(Roserade nods its head and walks to the respective rose. Everyone follows it to the rose. Ash picks it up and he and his Pikachu gasp in amazement. The top of the rose is tipped in black, the petals are yellow colored with two red circles in the middle with the leaves on the bottom shaped like lightning bolts. He passes the rose to Dawn and Brock, who are amazed at the rose.)

Dawn: (in amazement) Oh wow! I have never seen a rose so beautifully crafted like that! (to Sullivan) How did you do something like that?

Priscilla: (to Dawn) My dad is an expert botanist, especially when it comes to roses. He started this rose garden because civilians wanted to beautify this city. He took it upon himself to create this rose garden. However, he didn't know that his creation would be a worldwide sensation.

Irvine: (to the group) Yeah, his garden gets attention everyday. He's been featured by DJ Mary on the morning radio show. I also didn't mention that he came up with the floral design for the ribbon for the Eclectic City Contest.

Sullivan: (stroking the back of his head, smiling) Well, I didn't expect the fame to hit like it did, but I rather enjoyed doing what I do. (to everyone) I don't give guided tours, so you can look around if you want. (reaches in his pocket to pull out a bunch of keys, which he hands to Ash.) Here are the keys to the rooms; just make sure you return them. There is a bestiary of all the Pokemon in the Grand Hall. There are 4 different floors. The basement floor is the Prehistoric Hall containing all the Pokemon from ages back. This floor is the nature and elemental floor containing rooms for Fire, Water, Ice, Ground, Bug, Rock, Grass, Flying, Electric, and the Prehistoric. The 2nd floor contains the offense/defense floor containing rooms for Fighting, Psychic, Ghost, Normal, Steel, Dark, Poison, and Dragon-Types. The top floor is the most important; that contains Legendary Hall, containing roses for all the Legendary Pokemon. At the back of that floor contains exclusive roses for Dialga, Palkia, and Giratina. I'm currently in the works of creating the final rose.

Ash: Which one is that?

Irvine: The Pokemon of creation…

Priscilla: The possessor of the famed Jewel of Life…

Everyone: (out loud) Arceus!

Dawn: (to Sullivan) Wow, are you really going to try to create a rose for Arceus?

Sullivan: (to Dawn) I don't see why I can't! This will be my biggest challenge yet! I'm kind of close to completing it, and for that I have decided to hold on to the key to Legendary Hall. But you definitely should check out the rest of the garden! I'm going to work on the final rose! (to Roserade) Roserade! Let's go; we got a rose to finish! (to Irvine and Priscilla) Irvine, Priscilla, you two are in charge while I'm working.

(Roserade happily obliges and follows Sullivan out to the hallway. The group walks out to the hallway.)

Brock: (to Priscilla) So Priscilla, we can go just about anywhere we want to, is that right?

Priscilla: That's right! Go to the room of your favorite Pokemon and check out the rose Daddy made for it.

(A doorbell rings in the distance to the last notes of the first Pokemon theme song. Everyone hears it.)

Priscilla: Hey Irv, do you think you can get that?

Irvine: Uh, sure, I'll be right back. Come on Masquerain!

(Irvine walks down the long hallway to the door with his Masquerain flying close behind him.)

Priscilla: (claps her hands in excitement) I have an idea! How about everyone goes to the rooms of their Pokemon and we'll meet in front of Legendary Hall in an hour? Does that sound good?

Ash: (pumps his fist in the air) Yeah! Come on Pikachu! (Pikachu squeals in excitement as it runs off alongside Ash)

Priscilla: (calling out to Ash) Hold on Ash, WAIT!!!

(Ash stops, looks back at Priscilla and scratches the back of his head)

Ash: Yeah? What's going on?

Priscilla: Put all your Pokemon in this experience. Bring them all out!

Ash: (smiling) That sounds like a good idea! (grabs all of his PokeBalls) Alright everyone! Come on out! (He tosses all of his PokeBalls in the air revealing Gliscor, Chimchar, Staraptor, Buizel, and Grotle.)

Priscilla: (to Brock and Dawn) I suggest you do the same.

Dawn/Brock: Sure (they throw their PokeBalls in the air) Everyone, come on out! (the PokeBalls open and out comes Pachirisu, Buneary, Mamoswine, Ambipom, Sudowoodo, Happiny, and Croagunk.)

Priscilla: Speaking of which, I should do the same thing! (to Ash) If you do happen to challenge me, here's some of the Pokemon you will see! (throws her PokeBalls in the air) Let's go!

(The PokeBalls open, revealing a Wigglytuff, a Togetic, a Scyther, Clefable, amd Kirlia. Brock looks at the Togetic with interest.)

Brock: (to Priscilla) You know, that Togetic of yours looks pretty familiar. Might I ask where you got it from?

Priscilla: Well, I used to be a traveling trainer like you all before the Pokemon League asked me to be a Gym Leader for Sonataville. I was traveling around the Kanto region when I ran into Cerulean City. I challenged the Gym Leader there which I believe her name was Misty. I defeated her with a Lanturn I once had. She really admired my Lanturn and she wanted to take it on. She wasn't doing much with that cute Togepi of hers so we settled on a trade. My Lanturn for her Togepi. I raised her Togepi until it became a Togetic!

Ash: No wonder that Togetic looked familiar! It used to belong to Misty!

Brock: Wow, I wonder if it recognizes us. (to Togetic) Hey do you remember us?

(Togetic walks up to Brock, looks around him, sniffs him, smiles, and nuzzles up to Brock, who in response hugs him. It does the same thing to Ash.)

Dawn: (awkward smile) Well, I guess old friends are really something, especially when they are Pokemon! Now let's go! I want to see all the roses!

(everyone and their Pokemon agree and split off into different directions checking out all the rooms with the respective keys. Meanwhile, Irvine is at the manor door with his Masquerain. He presses a button on the loudspeaker while looking at the video revealing Jessie and James disguised in paparazzi attire with Digital SLR cameras around their necks.)

Irvine: Hello, who is this?

James: Hello good sir! We're with the local newspaper and we are doing a cover story on your rose garden.

Irvine: (thinks for a second with his hand stroking his chin) Wait a minute. This rose garden has been featured already on the local paper. Why are you doing another cover story on it?

Jessie: We heard that your daddy is finishing the final rose and we wanted exclusive pictures of it to show the world.

Irvine: Well, I can't let you in with those motives. My father's work in the rose garden is a secret and shouldn't be leaked to anyone.

James: (frustrated) But can't you please give us a tour of the garden, anyway?

Irvine: (unsure) I don't know…well, okay! Just turn in your cameras to me, is that clear?

Jessie: (fake smiles) Of course, sir!

(Irvine presses a button, causing the doors to swing open. He walks down the path with his Masquerain flying by him. Standing at the wood and iron gates in front of him is Team Rocket. James has a bazooka on his shoulder and fires it, the shell exploding, revealing two nets that ensnare Irvine and Masquerain.)

Irvine: (trying to fight his way out of the net) What is this travesty? (to Masquerain) Use Razor Wind!

(Masquerain's wings glow white and it flaps them, sending blades of wind to slice the net. The blades are repelled back onto Masquerain, hitting it directly. Team Rocket laughs. Irvine looks on in horror.)

Irvine: (shouts as in fear) Masquerain! No!

Jessie: Guess what Irvine? We're going to take your Pokemon and all those roses! (cackles loudly)

James: These roses will look great in our boss' headquarters! Especially one for me to keep!

Irvine: (angrily, while struggling to get free) You don't know what you are doing! This place is special to my father. You won't get away with this!

Meowth: Father, Schmather. We're gonna get rich from all this! Now onward to that Pikachu!

(Team Rocket runs inside the manor cackling out loud. Irvine and Masquerain struggle to get free, but to no avail. In the meantime, there is a mysterious Pokemon that had seen all the trouble that was going on. The Pokemon slinks away to our heroes…)

+=+ To be continued… +=+​