The next day,
The Mane 7 and their new friends were walking down the path through Viridian Forest.
“So, tell me again why we are going through this forest with all these creepy crawly bugs?” Misty asked.
“What’s wrong with bugs? I think they’re adorable myself,” Fluttershy asked.
“Yeah! I think all Pokemon can be cute or cool in some way,” Ash agreed.
“Just as long as they aren’t ladybugs or snakes,” Twilight said.
“Well, darling, after last night I can see you are definitely afraid of snakes,” Rarity said sympathetically.
“But what’s wrong with ladybugs?” Rainbow Dash wondered.
“Yeah! Those itty bitty little guys with their itty bitty spots are just the cutest!” Pinkie Pie cheered.
“Um, guys?” Spike warned as he saw that Twilight was looking scared of being reminded of ladybugs.
“Maybe we should stop. I mean, Twilight is looking scared. I mean, Plusle and Minun scare me and I’d rather not be reminded of them if I can help it,” Dawn pointed out.
“I agree. We shouldn’t push the issue on Twilight if she doesn't want to,” Applejack agreed.
“But, back to Misty, what is your problem with bugs, if you don’t mind me asking?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“What did I just say?” Applejack reminded Rainbow Dash with a look of annoyance.
“It’s just…Bugs get me all bugged out! Just keep them away!” Misty fearfully cried out.
“Sounds to me like Misty has a case of Entomophobia,” Twilight said.
“What now?” Ash asked, confused as Snivy and Pikachu shook their heads.
“Yeah. What does that have to do with opening doors?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“It means that Misty has a fear of bugs,” Spike answered.
“Yeah! I’ve looked into it, and entomophobia is the fancy scientific name for a fear of bugs,” Fluttershy confirmed.
“Sadly, we’ll be seein’ a bunch of bugs in this forest. The guide says that most of the Pokemon found here are either Bug-types or Grass-types with the occasional Flying-type or Pikachu,” Applejack said, making Misty more freaked out to be reminded of that.
“There, there, darling. We should be out of the forest in…,” Rarity asked the others.
“According to the guide it’ll be at least a three day hike,” Applejack confirmed.
“Aw! Three days?! I already aren’t big on traveling on foot, but now you tell me we have to be away from civilization for three days?!” Rarity complained.
“I’m afraid so. Hopefully, we can find a way to manage things away from civilization,” Dawn said.
“Hey! Look over there!” Ash interrupted, going a bit forward upon seeing a green worm Pokemon. “I can’t believe I found a Caterpie!”
“You mean the bug?” Rainbow asked as Misty looked away fearfully.
“A Caterpie is a caterpillar-like Pokemon that eventually is able to evolve into a butterfly-like Pokemon called a Butterfree,” Fluttershy answered.
“They aren’t the strongest long-term, but they are great for starting Trainers,” Twilight explained.
“You really are a walking fact book, aren’t you Twilight?” Dawn asked as Twilight blushed.
“And look!” Fluttershy pointed to a pink Caterpie that was close by. “Looks like Ash’s future Caterpie has a girlfriend.”
“So, I take it you wanna catch Caterpie, Ash?” Rainbow asked.
“Of course! I wanna make as many new friends as possible on my journey!” Ash confirmed.
“I relate! I love making new friends back in Ponyville! I’m an expert at making friends!” Pinkie Pie said joyfully.
“Now, Pokeball, go!” Ash cried out as he threw a Pokeball. Shocking everyone at how forward he was being. “What? I don’t wanna hurt the little guy if I can help it.”
“Well…I guess to each their own,” Spike mumbled, but to everyone’s surprise, Fluttershy also threw one at the pink Caterpie.
“Um, Fluttershy? So, I take it that you wanna catch that Caterpie as your new friend?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Yes. I figured the couple would miss each other if I didn’t catch the other one, so I decided to catch one,” Fluttershy explained.
“That’s very sweet of you, Fluttershy,” Twilight complimented her friend’s kindness.
The two Pokeballs hit their target, the Caterpies within struggle to break out, but they end up getting captured.
“Yes, I did it! Ha ha! I did it! I got Caterpie!” Ash cheered as he took Misty's hand and starts running around with her. "I did it all by myself! I caught myself another Pokémon!” Ash cried out joyfully as Pikachu cried out as well and Ash's Snivy shrugged apathetically, though she did smile. “This is yet another step on my way to becoming the number one Pokémon master in the whole world.”
“Hey! Wait a minute. I'm getting dizzy! Ash, you’re gonna get me sick! Quit it!” Misty protested.
“Oh! I like this game! Can you spin me next?” Pinkie Pie asked.
“Uh…darling, I don’t think this is a game,” Rarity pointed out.
“Look out, Pokémon! Nothing's gonna stop me now!” Ash cried out.
“I know you’re excited to have a new friend, but can you please calm down? You are acting a bit too overeager,” Dawn told her excited friend, who blushed in embarrassment.
"Yeah. No offense, but you're acting more like a filly than a grown-up," Applejack pointed out.
“Oh, sorry. It’s just that this is one of my first captures and my first Bug Pokemon,” Ash said as he got a bit close to Misty.
“That’s good, Ash. I just need to find myself a Pokemon to catch now,” Dawn smiled, though she also looked a bit sad at not having a Pokemon other than Piplup. Piplup noticed the sadness in his Trainer’s eyes and hugged her leg.
“Thanks, Dawn! Hopefully you’ll find some Pokemon in the forest. We’re going to be here for a few days, anyway,” Ash reminded as he tried to contain his excitement.
"I'd still rather we just teleport out of here with the scissors," Rarity muttered.
"And miss out on finding some new Pokemon friends? No way!" Pinkie Pie responded.
“I just hope we get out of here fast. Like with Rarity, the last thing I need is to rough it out here for days on end,” Dawn said.
“Seriously? You plan on becoming a Trainer yet you aren’t willing to rough it? Weak,” Misty said in annoyance.
“Hey! I can handle it out here for a couple of days! I’d just prefer not to!” Dawn hotly protested.
Ash interrupted by saying, “I understand your annoyance Misty. I had similar conversations with Dawn over the last few months.”
“Hey!” Dawn yelled in annoyance.
“Still, I’ve grown to understand thanks to my mom and Professor Oak that not everyone will love nature like me and not be bothered by it. Dawn can find some beauty in nature and Pokemon, but she still prefers to sleep in a real bed, for example,” Ash said as his excitement returned. “Look! Inside this ball is one of the very first Pokémon I ever caught in my whole entire life.”
“Well, someone sure is excited still…,” Dawn noted.
“Hey! I’m just happy to have a new friend and family member join our crew. Remember, the bigger the team, the easier it will be to become a Pokemon Master someday!” Ash pointed out.
“When you put it like that, it makes sense to be excited, if a bit childish,” Dawn said as Ash looked annoyed, but was quick to shake it off.
"In that case, it may be a great idea to catch some more Pokemon myself. I just need to find one that fits us, right Snivy?" Rainbow asked as Snivy cried out. "Uh, translation Futtershy?"
"She says she's a bit nervous about making new friends, but she's willing to try for your sake," Fluttershy confirmed as Rainbow's Snivy nodded.
"Okay...? Well, thanks I guess...," Rainbow was confused.
"Don't worry, Snivy. You'll soon see that making friends is gonna be the best!" Pinkie Pie said.
“So, Misty, what do you make of my brand new Caterpie?” Ash asked as he held the Pokeball near Misty.
“Great. Just keep it away from me. Will you?” Misty warned.
“You're not afraid of an itty bitty Caterpie in a Pokéball, are you?” Rainbow Dash was in disbelief.
“Yeah! Our two Caterpie's aren't even with us right now! Though I’d love to see them soon!” Pinkie Pie said.
“Now, now. Let’s be respectful. Just because we don’t have a fear of bugs doesn’t mean we should ignore it,” Applejack tried to remind the group.
“Agreed. But I suppose if we have our two Caterpie keep their distance perhaps we can let them out,” Dawn suggested.
“Maybe…Then again, I don’t have a problem with bugs,” Fluttershy said.
“Really? Looks like we know what to avoid around her…I guess. Still won’t stop me from loving Caterpie as much as I love Pikachu and Snivy. I like bugs, even when not in Pokéballs. It must be great for Caterpie inside the Pokéball, all cute and comfortable inside there. I love my new little Pokémon,” Ash cooed at his new Pokemon.
“I guess it takes a worm to love a worm,” Misty mumbled.
“Little rude, don’t you think?” Rarity asked.
“Yeah! He’s just happy to have a new Pokemon!” Rainbow agreed.
“Yeah, very funny. Pikachu, Snivy, we’ve got a new friend,” Ash cheered as Pikachu and Snivy cried out in agreement. “Oh, Pikachu. Snivy. I’m glad you both like him. And from now on we’ll catch a whole bunch of new friends. Caterpie, you‘re sticking with us.”
“Same to you, my adorable little friend!” Fluttershy squeed as she held her Pokeball.
“Does that mean …,” Misty was dreading where this was going.
“You better believe it,” Fluttershy said gleefully.
“Caterpie, come out!” Both Ash and Fluttershy said as the Pokéballs opened. Misty runs for her life, screaming as she does so. Both of the Caterpie materialize and nuzzle against each other.
“Aw they’re little lovebirds!” Rarity found the sight cute.
“Hey, Misty. I bet if you gave Caterpie a chance you’d like her,” Fluttertshy suggested.
“Yeah! There’s nothing to be scared of. Come on Caterpie. Climb up on my shoulder,” Ash said as he held a hand out to Caterpie. Ash’s Caterpie is about to do so, but he spots Misty and runs towards her. “Hey, Caterpie, come back.” Ash’s Caterpie starts rubbing against Misty's leg.
“Aw! That’s so precious!” Dawn cooed.
“I know! Caterpie likes you, Misty!” Rarity agreed.
“You wanna give Misty a chance, too?” Fluttershy asked her Caterpie, who responded by nuzzling against Misty’s leg as well.
“Isn’t that cute, Misty? You have yourself a new friend!” Pinkie Pie cheered.
“Well, this is interesting. A Caterpie attracted to someone with Entomophobia. I wonder how things will go,” Twilight was curious.
“Get these disgusting bugs away from me. Please don’t come any closer to me!” Misty fearfully cried out.
“What? You think Caterpie is disgusting?” Ash asked, a bit hurt and sad.
“I think our Caterpie are adorable to be honest,” Fluttershy said.
“Now, now. Misty can like or dislike any Pokemon she pleases,” Applejack reminded.
“Still, it is a little mean to not at least give the Caterpie a chance,” Rainbow pointed out.
“Oh! I know! You be friends with those creepy bugs and I’ll be friends with Pikachu,” Misty suggested.
“Pikachu only likes me and Fluttershy right now. He zaps anybody who tries to..,” However, Ash is surprised when Pikachu likes the attention Misty is giving him. “Pikachu!”
“Well…So much for that approach, eh Ash?” Spike teased.
“Yeah. Yeah,” Ash grumbled.
“Well, at least Pikachu is opening up to more people. That means something, right?” Dawn said.
“I guess,” Ash reluctantly agreed.
“Well, I’m afraid Pikachu isn’t distracting Misty anymore,” Twilight said as she pointed back to a fearful Misty.
“It's so gross. Ash, put that slimy thing back in the Pokéball! You too, Fluttershy! Bugs are one of the three most disgusting things in the world!” Misty cried out.
“Aside from your attitude, what are the other disgusting things?” Ash sarcastically asked.
“Ash…,” Fluttershy warned.
“Very funny. Carrots, peppers, and bugs. Everybody has something they don't like and I don't like bugs!” Misty noted.
“And we’ll do our best to respect that. Right girls?” Applejack asked the others.
“Right! We’ll do our best not to give Misty a heart attack over bugs,” Rainbow bluntly said, causing the others to give her glares. “What”
“I should probably not be a sour sport about the subject,” Rarity agreed with Applejack.
“I may catch myself some Bug-types for study, but I’ll try to keep them away from Misty,” Twilight said.
“Good call,” Spike agreed quietly.
“As for me, I suppose it was kinda mean of me to expect you to like Caterpie when you were scared. In fact, Caterpie return,” Fluttershy said as she recalled her pink Caterpie. “Also, I get that you don't like bugs. I’ll do my best to respect that. But you should be thankful Caterpie doesn't see you as a threat. Because according to the Pokédex…”
Fluttershy’s Pokedex chirped, “Caterpie, the Worm Pokémon. Using the suction cups on its feet, Caterpie can climb trees in order to camouflage itself from predators. It also releases a stench from its bright red antenna to drive off predators.”
“You see, Misty? If Caterpie wasn’t that much of a fan of you, you'd be smelling its repelling odor about now. That must mean something, right?” Twilight asked.
“Maybe, but that still doesn't change the fact that bugs are as disgusting as carrots and peppers!” Misty said.
“Yeah? Well, I like carrots, and peppers, and bugs. What I don't like is the way you're hurting Caterpie's feelings with your silly fear of bugs,” Ash chided Misty.
“Maybe we should be more respectful of Misty’s fear like Applejack said,” Dawn whispered to Ash.
“Fine. As for my new Pokemon, I don’t think you’re ugly or disgusting at all Caterpie. Come on. Climb up on my shoulder,” Ash suggests to Caterpie, who does so. “You’re not gonna scare Misty anymore.”
“What do you mean he won't scare me,” Misty hotly protested.
“Well, to be fair, you were more afraid of him than vice versa,” Dawn said.
“True. Ash, maybe you should recall your Caterpie,” Rarity suggested.
“But I wanted to spend more time with him,” Ash said.
“I do too, but Misty is obviously scared,” Fluttershy said.
“Right. Well, if she still wants to travel with us, she can keep her distance from us,” Ash countered.
“I think we should go on without her if she’ll be this much of a hassle,” Rainbow suggested.
“But what about our friendship?” Pinkie Pie was worried.
“To be fair, we aren’t exactly friends yet. But, maybe we could be on better terms, even if that will be difficult,” Ash was conflicted.
“Oh, yeah? I’ll show you!” Misty protested as the girl stood still, annoyed for a moment as the others walked on past.
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“Uh, Ash? Are you sure that we should have just left Misty like that? I know she was being difficult, but that was mostly due to her phobia,” Dawn pointed out.
“It’s not just that. She was actively treating Caterpie like trash for trying to be nice to her. She couldn’t even appreciate his kindness or at least try to!” Ash yelled.
"I agree! She was ruining our journey by being a spoil sport!" Rainbow noted as Applejack and Twilight gave her a glare. "What?"
“Okay? But remember, she only has a Goldeen on her right now. She’ll get into trouble if she runs into a dangerous wild Pokemon or more of those Team Rocket crooks,” Dawn reminded.
"I know! Those crooks could have hurt us back at the Pokemon Center!" Fluttershy muttered.
"Hmph! I wasn't scared! And neither should any of us! Remember, those bad guys stood little to no chance against us!" Rainbow boasted.
"This coming from someone who wasn't knocked out," Spike grumbled.
"What was that?" Pinkie Pie asked.
"Nothing!" Spike said.
“Yeah…you all do have a point," Ash noted.
"Maybe we should go back for her before...," Applejack began before being interrupted.
"But, at the same time, those crooks won’t care for a Goldeen that could easily be caught anywhere and as long as you stay on the path you don’t have to worry about wild Pokemon,” Ash reasoned.
“I guess so…,” Dawn mumbled.
"I have to admit it does make sense. I mean, the guidebook does say that most dangerous wild Pokemon don't go down the main path, like Ash said," Twilight agreed.
"Then we have nothing to worry about! Let's get going to look for more Pokemon now!" Rainbow yelled.
"But...what about Misty?" Fluttershy asked in concern.
"What about her?" Rainbow grumbled.
"Well...we don't know for certain if she'll remain safe the whole way through the forest. I don't want to see her get hurt, even if she was being a bit insensitive," Twilight noted.
"Ah agree with Twilight. We should go and give Misty a second chance. Phobias are no reason to shun a person," Applejack said.
"Agreed...But what if she says no? How do we pay her back then?" Ash asked.
"Well, she said she was a Gym Leader in Cerulean City. Maybe we can visit her when she's home?" Dawn suggested.
"And if she's not, we can leave the money with whoever else lives at her home," Rarity said.
Suddenly, the group was stopped by the bushes shaking nearby with a big purple mass sticking out of them, catching all the teen’s attention. “Do you think it’s a Pokemon, Ash?” Dawn wondered.
“It could be. Let’s check the Pokedex,” Ash said more quietly, in order to avoid getting the mass’s attention, as he scanned the mass.
Axew, the Tusk Pokémon. Axew marks its territory by making scratch marks on trees with its tusks, which regrow if they fall out.
"Aw! Axew looks so cute, don't you all think?" Fluttershy cooed.
"I have to agree, he looks so adorable in his Pokedex entry!" Pinkie Pie agreed.
"Yeah, but I guess this Axew had something happen to them," Rainbow rudely noted.
"Rainbow Dash! That was very rude of you to say!" Rarity protested. "But, to be fair, both the creature in front of us and the image in the Pokedex don't look anything alike."
“I agree with Rarity here. That mass looks nothing like an Axew,” Ash noted as Pikachu nodded in agreement.
“I know. Do you think the Axew is living in that mass?” Dawn wondered.
“Could be. You said that some Pokemon live on a Torterra’s back, right Twilight?" Ash asked.
"Correct. Torterra is so big, that many smaller Pokemon choose to spend their entire lives on their backs," Twilight confirmed.
"Aw, that is so cute and sweet of them!" Fluttershy squeed, along with Twilight.
"Maybe this is another one of those situations,” Spike suggested. "Though, I have to say something about that mass looks familiar..."
“Apparently, according to the Pokedex, Axew is another Unova Pokemon. Strange to see one stuck in Kanto, right?” Dawn asked.
"They could have been abandoned here by some jerk," Rainbow noted.
"Aw, don't be a sour sport, Dashie! They could have just flown over here!" Pinkie Pie suggested.
"Axew doesn't look like he has wings," Applejack snarked.
"Maybe he took a plane?" Pinkie Pie guessed.
“All I know is that it’s cool to see yet another cool Pokemon to become our friend," Rainbow said.
"I know! Our family is about to get even bigger! You can have this one, Dawn,” Ash offered. “I’ll try if you fail.” At this, the rest of the humans along with Pikachu, Piplup, and both Snivy fell comically as Piplup protested.
“Um, thanks Ash,” Dawn awkwardly accepted the offer.
"Hey! Why can't I catch the Axew?! He looks cool to me!" Rainbow countered.
"Because I don't have any Pokemon other than Piplup while you have two starters?" Dawn reminded Rainbow.
"Oh right. Hehe...," Rainbow blushed in embarrassment.
"Way to be rude, Rainbow...," Applejack grumbled.
“Since the mass isn’t attacking, the Pokemon must not have seen us yet," Twilight noted.
"I agree. They could be asleep. I’ll try to avoid a battle right now by throwing a Pokeball. Pokeball, go.” Dawn said.
And so, Dawn threw her Pokeball at the mass. However, instead of opening and sucking in the mass or the Axew, the Pokeball bounced off the mass as it yelled, “Ouch!”
“Wait…Ouch?!” Dawn started to realize that she and the others had made a mistake.
“Okay what was that for?!” The mass, revealed to be a girl with large purple hair and dressed in cream and pink clothes, called out in rage, not happy to have been bopped on the head.
"Wait...Iris?!" Spike was shocked to see the teen girl again.
"Y'all know her?" Applejack asked Spike.
"Uh huh. I met her just the other day," Spike confirmed.
"Oh, so that's why the mass didn't look like an Axew! It was this cute little girl instead!" Pinkie Pie realized.
"Thanks I guess. But that still doesn't excuse you jerks from bopping me on the head! I mean, one minute I'm getting berries to feed my friend...The next you jerks threw a Pokeball at me!" Iris protested.
“Sorry about that, miss! We didn’t mean to hurt you or interfere with whatever you were doing!” Dawn apologized.
"Y-Yeah! We didn't intend to do anything bad, right girls?" Twilight asked the others, who all nodded in agreement.
“Yeah, we really didn’t. You see… Dawn here was just trying to catch a Pokemon.” Ash awkwardly responded.
“So what you’re really saying is that I look like a Pokemon?” the girl responded in suppressed rage, “Your Pokedex, tell me, is this cute face in there? Tell me, is it?!” She suddenly shrieked out.
“No, uh… sorry?” Ash asked in fear of this girl.
“Fine. I accept your apology. But still, you have a long way to go as trainers if you make a mistake like that. Right, Axew?” The girl lifted the berry in her hand up to her hair. As she did so, the Axew from the Pokedex entry popped out of her hair and took a bite out of the berry.
“So, we were right. The Axew was in your hair,” Ash said, amazed…before remembering the insult directed at him and Dawn. “Hey! You know, we did just start off as Trainers! We still have room to grow!”
“Agreed!” Dawn nodded.
"Same here! I may have just started out, but I can grow into the very best like no one ever was!" Rainbow protested.
"Now, hold on girls! Maybe we oughta not break out into a fight over this girl's poor choice of words!" Applejack said as she pulled the trio back.
"Wow. You're pretty strong," Dawn noted.
"Yeah! Iris here probably didn't mean anything negative by that! Right, Iris?" Spike asked as the girl looked at him in shock.
"Of course not! I was just being hon-Hold on. Spike?! Is that really you?! I was so distracted by being bopped on the head I didn't notice you. How's it going?" Iris asked a bit shyly.
"It's going good! Ash and Fluttershy each got a Caterpie a little bit ago. Dawn would have caught an Axew if it wasn't already yours," Spike noted.
"Uh...I guess they're friends of yours then?" Iris asked quietly.
"Uh huh. Everyone, I'd like you to meet my new friend, Iris," Spike introduced Iris.
"Yup, that's me!" Iris greeted.
"I guess she may be cool. I mean, she has a Dragon Pokemon, so she probably is!" Rainbow yelled out.
"Axew is a D-Dragon-type?" Fluttershy nervously asked.
"I think so. At least according to the Pokedex," Ash said as Fluttershy looked nervous.
"Don't worry about it, darling. See? This Dragon looks relatively harmless," Rarity comforted.
"I know! He looks kinda cute!" Pinkie Pie cheered.
At this, Axew couldn't tell if he should be flattered or sad at the comments. "Uh, is your Axew okay?" Twilight asked in concern.
"Oh, Axew wants to be a powerful Haxorus someday. So, calling him weak can hurt his feelings. So, please don't say that again in the future," Iris answered, saying the last part with annoyance.
"Got it! Sorry!" Fluttershy apologized.
"You know, it may be for the best that we introduce ourselves. I'm Dawn Berlitz," Dawn suggested.
"Uh huh! My name is Twilight Sparkle. And these are Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, and Ash!" Twilight introduced the others. "So, this is the girl you wanted us to meet yesterday, right Spike?"
"Uh huh. And she can...," Spike began only to be interrupted by Pinkie.
"Well, looks like we will be best buds already! So, what is the first thing we should do as friends?" Pinkie Pie asked.
“Maybe we can understand each other better with a battle. I’m sure Ash would be happy to give you one,” Dawn suggested.
"Or I could! I would like for me and Snivy to test out our skills against a tough Dragon Pokemon! Right, Snivy?" Rainbow excitedly asked as her Snivy thought it over.
"Now, Rainbow...give Ash here a chance to battle!" Rarity suggested.
"Yeah! Y'all should probably train first," Applejack reminded.
"You can battle with me and Eevee latter if you want...," Fluttershy reluctantly offered.
"Well...alright. Snivy, let's watch this battle. Ash, it's all you," Rainbow decided.
“Yeah, okay! I haven’t been able to have a real battle yet aside from Paul. It would be great to see how I’d manage myself against a real Trainer. Let’s go!” Ash agreed to the challenge.
Suddenly, Iris looked very nervous. “Uh…, You know what, why not do so another time? I mean, I’m a pretty tough customer and can beat rookies like you all very easily.”
“Hey! We’re not rookies!” Ash protested…only to simmer down and admit, “Actually, we did just get our first Pokemon a few days ago, so yeah…"
"Coulda remembered that sooner?" Dawn teased.
"Maybe...I’d still like to battle soon, right Pikachu?”
In an instant, the girl went from nervous to ecstatic in seconds. “Wait. Is that a Pikachu?!” The girl cried out as she picked him up and hugged him tightly, rubbing his face against hers. “You have got to be the sweetest thing ever. So cute! And these cheeks,” The girl proceeded to flick Pikachu’s red cheeks. “You can’t find anything this jiggly in Unova! I’ve been in and out of this forest for a few days looking at all the Pokemon this forest has in store, but I’ve never seen a Pikachu before, even though this forest should have some. You’re so lucky to have one!” The girl squeed as she held out her free hand. Meanwhile, Pikachu uncomfortably struggled to get free from Iris’s grip.
“It’s nice to meet you and it's nice that you love Pikachu,” Dawn greeted as she looked at Pikachu and saw his negative mood. “Um, Ash?”
“Oh, right,” Ash began to understand. “And maybe you should let Pikachu go before he-,” Before Ash could finish, Iris got zapped by Pikachu, causing Iris to fall to the ground with Axew avoiding the fall thanks to Iris using her free arm to hold Axew up. Piplup and Axew worriedly shook Iris and tried to get her back up. Snivy, meanwhile, shook her head before trying to get her back up with Vine Whip. In a few seconds, the teen girl was back on her feet.
“Uh…sorry about that, Iris,” Dawn apologized with a bow.
“Yeah. We didn’t mean for you to get hurt. Pikachu still isn’t exactly in love with everyone yet,” Ash agreed.
"Yep. He still can get all zappy with just about anyone! I mean, he zapped me this morning when I tried to give him cookies!" Pinkie Pie said.
"Didn't y'all try and shake him awake?" Applejack asked.
“You know what? It’s fine,” Iris accepted the apology quickly. “To be honest, I am pretty curious what you all are doing wandering the forest alone. You planning on going to a Gym? Looking for Pokemon? Any of you on a date?” Iris asked the last one jokingly, but both Ash and Dawn blushed in embarrassment.
“N-Nothing like that, Iris!” Dawn answered nervously.
“Well…not the date part. You see, I’m planning on entering and winning the Indigo Plateau Conference that is coming up in the next several months. It’s been my dream to enter that Conference and become a Pokemon Master someday," Ash explained.
"Same with me, Applejack, and Rainbow! We plan on making it as far as possible in the League," Twilight said.
"I plan on winning!" Rainbow said.
"Kinda rude, don't you think?" Dawn asked.
"As for Dawn, she’s just following me because we’re friends and so that I can support her in Contests starting with one in Cerulean City," Ash explained.
"Yep! I plan on being a Top Coordinator someday!" Dawn agreed.
"Same with me and Pinkie Pie here. Ooh! I can't wait for Squirtle and me to show that crowd what we're made of!" Rarity squeed excitedly.
"Regardless, we’re all looking for Pokemon to help us with our goals,” Ash answered.
“Oh, interesting. I guess that none of you are lovebirds, but it’s nice to see I got the other two reasons correct at least,” Iris said.
“So, what about you, Iris? What are you doing out here?” Dawn wondered.
"That's a good question. I never learned what you were doing back in Viridian. Are you planning on entering the League as well?" Spike asked curiously.
"Would be a bit strange to not battle if that was the case," Rainbow snarked.
"Rainbow...," Applejack scolded.
"Or be a Coordinator? It would be so exciting to have another rival!" Pinkie Pie cheered.
“Uh…,” Iris suddenly became a lot more nervous upon being asked this question, which Axew noticed and tried to wave his claw in front of her so that she would regather her thoughts.
“You know, if you were planning to head over to Pewter City, you can come with us. I’m always open for more friends to travel with,” Ash suggested.
"Same here! Friends are the best! The more the better I always say!" Pinkie Pie agreed.
"And she may need our friendship considering how she feels about...," Spike said, only to be interrupted.
"Now, now. We shouldn't be too intrusive if she isn't comfortable," Rarity consoled.
"The last thing we need is for Iris to have a panic attack," Dawn agreed.
"I agree. But can you all please let me fin-," Spike tried to talk only for Iris herself to interrupt.
“A-Actually, I agree with Ash and Spike here...and the girl with the weird name. I can go along with you all to Pewter City. I mean, I kinda have some doubts that you all could survive the forest without my help. Forests are practically made for people like me. I’m an expert on finding berries and Pokemon that are likely to make for good catches. Right Axew?” Iris asked her dragon partner, who nodded and said his name a few times. “Looks like you agree with me again. But what do ya mean I should be less rude? They're the ones asking all the intrusive questions.”
“Uh…Iris?” Dawn asked, confused.
“What?” Iris asked bluntly.
“You see-,” Dawn began.
“Did you just talk to Axew just now?” Ash asked.
"Uhhhh....," Iris nervously buffered.
"Looks like she's broken," Pinkie whispered.
“Ash! Pinkie! Don’t be rude!” Dawn scolded.
“But I was just asking!” Ash countered as Snivy shook her head.
"And I was just worried!" Pinkie said.
"Good to be concerned...but maybe next time we don't be too forward," Twilight whispered.
“Don’t worry! I’ve been asked this before. Yes, I did just talk to Axew,” Iris sadly admitted.
“You did? But how? Only Pokemon can understand Pokemon,” Ash asked as Snivy and Dawn sighed in frustration for failing to read the room.
“Ash? Let’s not intrude or be blunt here!” Dawn warned.
"Yeah! She could be awkward over that fact. Is she, Spikey?" Rarity asked the young boy.
"Kinda?" Spike answered.
“It’s okay, Dawn. I guess… I don’t know why, but ever since I was a little kid, I was able to understand what Pokemon can say. Not just Dragon-types, but all Pokemon," Iris explained.
"Aw! There is someone out there just like me!" Fluttershy was very interested.
"Even so, Dragon-types have always gotten more than just words that I can understand. I can understand their feelings and thoughts at times as well. Someday…,” Iris was about to continue until she realized she was about to get too personal and stopped talking.
“Uh, someday what?” Ash asked as he and Pikachu were both on the edge of their seats.
“Uh…maybe some other time. Sorry to unload all that understanding Pokemon stuff on you. You probably think I’m some insane weirdo, right?” Iris asked with a red face, trying to hide how self-conscious she was feeling right now.
“Actually, that sounds pretty cool! I wish I could understand Pokemon any time like you can!” Ash admitted.
“Yeah! What you have is a gift. I’m surprised more people aren’t happy to have it,” Dawn agreed.
"I don't see a problem with your power. It must be pretty handy!" Twilight said.
"If anything, it makes you pretty awesome like Fluttershy here!" Rainbow yelled out.
"Um...yes?" Fluttershy blushed.
"If anyone made you feel bad in the past, then they're the ones in the wrong!" Applejack said.
"See? I told you they'd be understanding!" Spike said.
“R-Really? You think so?” Iris asked as she smiled big with a tear in her eye. “Thanks so much! You’re the first people other than Drayden to think so.” Before Iris could say anything else, she felt Axew be confused at something behind her. Upon turning around, she saw that both Snivys had turned around. “Uh, excuse me, but I think your Snivys are trying to say something,” Iris pointed to the Unova Grass starters who had just turned around as they heard something. Suddenly, Pikachu turned around as well.
“So, what is Pikachu saying? What’s the problem?” Ash asked.
Pikachu and both Snivy all talked at once, but they were saying the same thing. “Apparently, some teen girl named Misty is following us currently. I’m just not sure why. You think she needs help traveling through Viridian Forest?” Iris wondered.
“Look, I’m sorry about your bike, really I am, but…,” Ash began.
“I think I can guess what you plan on saying,” Spike interrupted.
“Yeah! You don’t have to follow us when you clearly are miserable and crabby all the time!” Rainbow Dash yelled out as her Snivy was about to nod only to stop upon seeing Ash’s Snivy shake her head.
“Kinda rude there, darling,” Rarity whispered to the woman.
"And...if you're finding us so unbearable, why are you even bothering with us?" Ash demanded.
“So, I’m confused. Are they crushing on each other mad or mad mad?” Iris asked.
“Mad mad,” Dawn answered. “These two are just incredibly stubborn to an annoying degree.”
“You want me to break up their fight?” Iris suggested.
“If it goes on for much longer, I’d say yes,” Dawn admitted.
“I won’t give up until I get my bike paid for! Besides, I’m not following you. This happens to be the fastest way through the woods,” Misty pointed out.
“Um, Iris? Is this really…?” Dawn asked only to be interrupted.
“Yes, yes it is. It’s a bit childish to think I’d have to be asked something this simple,” Iris answered, with her latter comment annoying Ash and Dawn.
“Gee, thanks,” Dawn grumbled.
“Well...fine. I don’t mind the extra company, so you can come with us if you want,” Ash suggested half genuinely and half annoyed.
“Same here. It would be interesting to travel with a Gym Leader,” Twilight noted with excitement and curiosity.
“By the way, what type is your Gym, anyway?” Fluttershy kindly asked.
“I happen to run a Water-type Gym,” Misty said proudly.
“Well, no offense, but Pikachu and Snivy will kinda have an advantage against you and your sisters,” Ash pointed out.
“But, I will have a disadvantage with my Growlithe, if that helps you,” Applejack said, trying to cool Misty’s anger before she could become frustrated again.
“Hmm…Like I said last night, I’m going with you guys. I still wanna see the world after all. But that doesn’t mean we’re friends!” Misty decided.
“Well, okay…,” Dawn answered.
“Hopefully you’ll change your mind soon,” Ash said with annoyance.
“Bellsprout!”
Everyone’s attention was turned to a small plant with a yellow bell-shaped head.
“Aw! He’s so adorable!” Fluttershy gushed.
“I know, right!” Dawn agreed.
“Looks a little creepy to me,” Rarity admitted.
“Still, it could be a helpful Pokemon to have travel with us,” Applejack decided.
“So, what’s his name?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“It’s a Bellsprout!” Ash answered.
"Oh yeah! I just saw one a little while ago!" Iris noted.
"Did you find out anything special about them?" Fluttershy asked.
"Not really...," Iris admitted lamely.
“Oh, right! I remember seeing one at Professor Oak’s lab!” Twilight remembered.
“Well, let’s see what the Pokedex says,” Dawn said as she got out her Pokedex.
Bellsprout, the Flower Pokémon. A Grass and Poison type. Bellsprout loves high temperatures and humidity. It can be lightning fast when it extends its vines in order to grab something.
“So, who do you think should capture it?” Fluttershy asked.
“Ooh! Can I catch it? He looks like he’d make a good playmate to my Poliwag!” Pinkie Pie suggested.
“Come on! I only have two Pokemon and I’ll need more in order to compete in the League!” Rainbow Dash complained as her and Ash’s Snivy shook their heads.
“Same with me. But, to be fair, four Pokemon should be more than enough for now,” Ash said.
“Besides, Rainbow Dash, you started off with two Pokemon instead of one,” Rarity reminded the brash girl, Rainbow blushing at the reminder.
"So, yeah...you're probably the last one to talk about wanting more Pokemon," Iris noted as Rainbow looked annoyed.
“Why don’t we find a way to reasonably decide who gets the Bellsprout, preferably before he escapes,” Dawn suggested.
“Why don’t we draw straws?” Twilight suggested.
“Perfect! We just need to find some straws. Does anyone have some?” Applejack asked.
“Oh, I do!” Pinkie Pie answered as she got out many straws of varying length.
“Where did you get them from?” Dawn asked.
“Trust me when I say, ‘It’s Pinkie Pie. Don’t question it,’” Spike whispered to Dawn.
“Hey, Misty, you wanna try to catch the Bellsprout too? He’s pretty cute! And not a bug!” Fluttershy asked politely.
“I’m good. I’m more into my Water-types and cuties that are associated with water,” Misty declined, being polite for now as she took her focus away from Caterpie.
"Okay? You may need to have more than just Water-type Pokemon in the future...," Iris noted, not being sure if she was being hypocritical or not.
And so, everyone but an apathetic Misty drew a straw, and Applejack drew the longest one so she got to fight against the Bellsprout.
“Okay now, Growlithe, let’s get the show on the road!” Applejack said as the Bellsprout looked interested in Applejack and her Pokemon, wondering if she would make a good Trainer or not. “Now, Growlithe, use Ember!” Growlithe shot out some fire pellets as Bellsprout sent out some sharp leaves.
“He’s using a Razor Leaf attack!” Twilight warned.
“Yeah, but maybe the Ember will burn them,” Ash suggested.
“I think they are!” Spike pointed to the now burnt leaves as some of the Ember hit Bellsprout.
“Perfect! Now then, get in close with Bite!” Applejack commanded as Growlithe rushed in to attack. Suddenly, Bellsprout sent out a purple liquid.
“What’s that?” Dawn asked.
“I think Bellsprout is using Acid!” Twilight realized.
“Does that mean Growlithe will melt?!” Fluttershy asked in worry.
“Relax. Acid, the move, won’t melt substances that are organic. However, it will still sting,” Misty noted.
"Uh...how does she not know that?" Iris questioned suspiciously.
"Trust me. You don't wanna know," Spike answered.
“Quick! Dodge the attack, Growlithe!” Applejack called as Growlithe jumped over the spray and bit down on Bellsprout. “Great job!” Suddenly, Bellsprout used Vine Whip in order to knock Growlithe off of him.
“That has got to hurt,” Ash noted sympathetically.
“I know, right? Still, it’s kinda cool that Bellsprout has found a way to counter Acid being dodged as well as dealing with that Ember,” Rainbow said as her Snivy nodded.
“I know! I wish I was the one to capture Bellsprout!” Twilight squeed.
“Calm down now, Twilight,” Spike said to try to bring Twilight back to reality.
“You’re a pretty tough customer, Bellsprout, but this battle is just about over! Growlithe, use your Flame Wheel to finish things up!” Applejack called as Bellsprout tried to counter with a Razor Leaf. However, Growlithe burned through the leaves and tackled into Bellsprout. “Alright, let’s do this! Pokeball, go!” Applejack threw an empty Pokeball that proceed to catch Bellsprout in the Pokeball. A few shakes later, the Pokeball caught the Bellsprout successfully. “This is perfect! Looks like we caught ourselves a Bellsprout!”
“That’s great Applejack! I should get out some cookies I baked last night to celebrate this new capture!” Pinkie Pie cheered.
“Uh, maybe we should do this after we leave the forest full of creepy crawlies!” Misty yelled out.
“We’ll get to that, darling! I honestly wish we could be out of here ourselves. All the sweat and humidity is a lot to take in,” Rarity noted sympathetically.
“Same here. But we’ll have to make do with all the issues that come with being in a forest for now,” Dawn said reluctantly.
“Like what?” Twilight wasn’t seeing the problem.
“Yeah! Forests outside of the Everfree Forest are pretty relaxing and peaceful. And one filled with animals or Pokemon are even better,” Fluttershy gushed.
“Well…for one thing it is very easy to get messy in the forest with all the mud and leaves,” Rarity confessed.
“And they would do a number on your hair to boot,” Dawn agreed.
“Seriously? That’s it? Sure, forests are dirty, but getting a little messy won’t kill us,” Rainbow Dash pointed out.
"Yeah! That is a very kiddish reason for not wanting to be involved with a forest. Like Fluttershy said, nature is beautiful," Iris noted in awe along with Axew.
“Says the girl who lives in the clouds and the one who was built for forests,” Applejack snarked. “But, to be fair, I’ve been camping out at least once a year and I can tell that being in the woods is no issue.”
“Yeah! Like Fluttershy said, imagine all the Pokemon we will meet! We may even see more bu-,” Pinkie Pie was interrupted by Ash and Twilight covering the bubbly girl’s mouth before she could remind Misty of her fears.
“Maybe we should focus on getting out of the forest before things get worse for us,” Twilight said nervously.
“Sure thing! But first, maybe it will be a good and relaxing thing for us to take a break for Pinkie Pie’s cookies,” Ash suggested, hoping everyone would calm down if they did so. Thankfully, his suggestion worked and everyone happily sat down for cookies.
—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Later, our heroes have stopped for the night.
“So, Dawn, what are we going to have for dinner?” Ash asked curiously.
“Uh…,” Dawn nervously looked in her bag to see that nothing was in it. “I forgot to fill our bags, Ash. I spent most our time shopping looking for clothes and stuff. Looks like we’re gonna have to skip out on dinner tonight. Great! First I have to rough it out here for a few days and now we have no food!”
"I agree! This is the worst. Possible! Thing!" Rarity over melodramatically wailed.
"Don't worry, Rarity. I packed some food back in Viridian. We can eat tha-," Twilight reassured as she opened the bag...only to see that it was empty.
"Uh...where's the food, Twilie? Oh! Did you shrink it for portability?!" Pinkie Pie asked.
"Not really. I think I kinda...sorta...left part of it back at the Pokemon Center. We ate what was left of it for lunch earlier," Twilight admitted with a blush.
"For the record, I don't mind...," Fluttershy began only to be interrupted by Rainbow.
"Seriously?! We've been walking around for hours and you couldn't have remembered that sooner?!" Rainbow yelled out.
"For your information, Miss Dash, I was focusing on a myriad of other issues other than our food!" Twilight countered.
"Now, now, girls. Let's not jump down each other's throats," Applejack stopped the fight. "We'll just have to use the Dimensional Scissor and go get it."
"...Provided no one stole it," Rainbow snarked.
"Should I just go and check?" Spike suggested.
“Well then, it looks like you all are just gonna have to wait a few days to eat. Where’s the annoyance in me now?” Misty said a bit smugly.
“What? And you have food?” Ash retorted as Pikachu and Snivy tried to hold him back.
"Yeah! I don't see you eating!" Rainbow agreed.
“As a matter of fact, Mr. and Mrs. Master, I d-,” Misty looked in her bag only to see that she also forgot to fill her bag back at the Pokemon Center.
“Looks like you all forgot to gather some food back in Viridian then? Looks like I really am dealing with little kids. Don’t worry. A little bit earlier when we stopped for a break, Axew and I gathered a bunch of berries for us all to eat. Dig in!” Iris said as Axew nodded and opened Iris’s bag filled with berries for the group to eat. The group all drooled greedily upon seeing the many different types of healthy berries that they could have for dinner.
"Well...looks like we're gonna eat after all," Fluttershy said in relief.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A little bit later, after the group had finished their delicious berry meal…
"You're telling me that you all come from another world entirely?!" Iris asked.
"Uh huh! And We are pretty famous heroes where we come from too!" Rainbow boasted.
"Uh...we only saved Equestria once, remember?" Applejack reminded.
“Not only that, but Pikachu here was willing to risk everything to save you even though he spent the whole day and weeks prior hating him beforehand?” Iris asked for confirmation.
“Uh, huh! He saw how much I was willing to risk for him and he began to see me in a different light,” Ash admitted.
“That must have taken a lot of courage to do something so risky, though,” Iris said shyly.
“No, it didn’t. Well, maybe a little bit. I just did what needed to be done,” Ash said.
“Really? Cool,” Iris said as she thought, “Maybe someday I could do something similar to help out Axew or Excadrill.”
“Oh, Ash! Tell him that last part. You know, before we ended up going to the Pokemon Center!” Dawn said.
“Oh, right! Before we left, and after I caught my Aipom, Pikachu and I both saw a Ho-oh in the sky, just like that!” Ash said gleefully.
“You did?! But…seeing one in your life is supposed to almost never happen!” Iris was amazed.
“Well, Pikachu and I were lucky enough to be among those rare few,” Ash said.
"Well...if you all aren't lying, then I'd say I made some pretty cool friends," Iris said.
"Trust me. All that happened is true, and A'm not the type to lie," Applejack said.
"Yeah! Applejack is kinda not that good at it anyway," Rarity noted.
"Really? I couldn't tell!" Pinkie Pie said innocently.
“We‘d better get some sleep you guys. Tomorrow’s gonna be a big day,” Ash said as he got into his sleeping bag as Pikachu nodded in agreement and Snivy gave a confused look.
“Don’t we have to wait a few more days to get to Pewter City, though?” Twilight asked.
“Yeah! According to our map, we still have to wait a while to get out of the forest,” Spike agreed.
"And it's only been a single day so far," Iris reminded.
“The sooner we leave the better, I’d say,” Rarity said.
“Let me guess, Ash. Being on your journey more will bring a lot of joy to you and it also means meeting more Pokemon and people. Am I right?” Dawn asked.
“Well…yeah. How did you know, Dawn?” Ash asked with a blush.
“Lucky guess. Personally, going through this forest wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be. As long as my hair doesn’t get messed up I should be fine prior to returning to civilization again,” Dawn sighed in relief as she turned to hide a blush as well.
"See? Traveling around isn't so bad!" Iris said, happy to have been proven right.
“I kinda wish we could be here longer. After all, it would be interesting to see the different lives and habits of the various Pokemon,” Fluttershy said with a squee.
“Now, hold on there, Fluttershy. I know you wanna do that. But remember that we all are on a journey and I think we only have a specific amount of time to get our Ribbons and Gym Badges. Do you really wanna inconvenience us like that?” Applejack reminded the shy girl gently.
After a moment, Fluttershy blushed before apologizing, “Sorry.”
“What about us all getting some sleep? I mean, the sooner we sleep, the sooner we can wake up and find more Pokemon,” Rainbow Dash huffed in annoyance.
“Well, we’d all get some sleep if you shut your big mouth. And if your pals would just settle down!” Misty grumbled in annoyance.
“You know what? I think we’ve done enough talking for tonight. We‘d better get some sleep you guys. Tomorrow’s gonna be a big day,” Dawn suggested.
“You have a point, Dawn. It would be easier to sleep if Ash and Misty here weren’t arguing like little kids,” Iris said, which got the two blushing angrily.
“You know, she has a point,” Spike agreed reluctantly. “Let’s go to sleep, Dratini.”
“Yeah. I really would rather have plenty of energy tomorrow than stay up. Good night!” Dratini said as she dozed off.
“Don’t let the bed bugs bite,” Rainbow grumbled, trying to get under Misty’s skin in anger.
“Haha! Very funny. Now, go to sleep now!” Misty yelled sarcastically.
"I got it, okay?!" Ash grumbled.
—-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
During the night, Fluttershy woke up, having had trouble sleeping due to being excited to meet new Pokemon. Before she could try to return to sleep, she noticed that some of the Pokemon, including both Caterpie, were awake and talking. “Um…is anyone awake?” Fluttershy asked the others. For the most part, everyone was asleep. However, as it turned out, Dawn was also still awake.
“What is it, Fluttershy? It is the middle of the night,” Dawn reminded Fluttershy.
“I just woke up and I’m hearing our Pokemon talking,” Fluttershy answered.
“What? Oh right. You can understand what Pokemon say,” Dawn remembered.
“Yeah! And, I don’t mean to intrude, but I’m finding their conversation interesting,” Fluttershy said.
“What’s going on?” Dawn asked as the two Caterpie were looking at the moon in awe.
“Ash’s Caterpie is in awe at the moon, along with my Caterpie. Not only that, but both Caterpie wish to be able to evolve into Butterfree and be able to fly through the sky freely, especially in the beautiful night sky,” Fluttershy explained.
“Really?” Dawn was surprised. “Wow. I guess being able to understand Pokemon is a really special gift to have. I kinda wish I could do the same. Maybe then I could be closer with my Piplup,” Dawn admitted.
“Well…it is a helpful gift. But that doesn’t mean you and your Pokemon can’t be close. It just means that when your connection does grow it will be due to your own talents,” Fluttershy said.
After a moment, Dawn smiled. “Thanks, Fluttershy. Perhaps we should go back to sleep now.”
“Yeah. Well, goodnight, Dawn,” Fluttershy said as she laid down to rest.