Chapter 36: Chapter 36: Weedle
After Kai Ross's defeat, the samurai boy sent out another Pokémon: Metapod!
Metapod, the evolved form of Caterpie, is known for its excellent defense. However, this form sacrifices mobility for protection, making it almost immobile. Against Ash's Pidgey, it stood little chance. Lacking offensive power and mobility, it was quickly defeated, offering no resistance.
Frustrated by the loss, the samurai boy accepted his defeat and left, his heart heavy with regret. Over the past two days, he had suffered consecutive losses against two Trainers from Pallet Town: Ash and Gary, both of whom were just rookies. For someone who prided himself on his strength, this was a devastating blow.
As he walked away, the samurai boy glanced back at Ash and Misty, who were just behind him, and made a silent vow. "Next time, I'll make sure to prove my strength to them!" His determination burned brighter as he departed.
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A New Day in the Forest
After parting ways with the samurai boy, Ash and Misty continued their journey. Pikachu, however, seemed a bit sulky. It had not participated in the recent battle, and its dissatisfaction was written all over its face.
Ash couldn't help but laugh at Pikachu's behavior. In the anime, Pikachu was known for being cheerful and non-aggressive, but this Pikachu seemed to have inherited Ash's fiery and competitive spirit. Perhaps this change came from Ash's bond with Osiris, the Soaring Dragon Pokémon from the myths.
As the sun reached its peak, Ash and Misty decided to set up camp for lunch. Unlike the previous day, they struggled to find a suitable spot near a water source. They eventually settled in a dry but safe location, though they knew this would strain their water supplies.
Ash prepared lunch, sharing leftover food with Pikachu and Pidgey, while Misty busied herself setting up the tent. As they ate, Ash reflected on his earlier battle. He carefully analyzed Pidgey's performance, pointing out areas for improvement.
Pidgey listened intently, its eyes bright with understanding. It was clear that Pidgey admired Ash's dedication as a Trainer. Yesterday's training, today's battle, and now this review session had opened new horizons for Pidgey. It now saw its Trainer as not only a mentor but also a guide to achieving its potential.
"I'm lucky to have found such a Trainer," thought Pidgey, feeling more motivated than ever.
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Training and Bonds
After lunch and a brief rest, Ash and Misty began their respective Pokémon training. Ash decided to modify his training regimen to include combat techniques alongside move practice.
The plan was simple: the first half of the afternoon focused on refining moves, while the latter half emphasized combat skills. Ash set up a friendly sparring session between Pidgey and Pikachu to teach them practical fighting techniques.
Curious, Misty approached. Seeing the intensity of Ash's training methods, she asked to join. Soon, the training evolved into a full-on practice battle: Pidgey squared off against Misty's Staryu, while Pikachu faced her Starmie.
Both sides held back, ensuring no one got hurt. After all, this was meant to improve skills, not settle scores.
The results were impressive.
Pidgey began targeting weak points in its opponent's defense, showing a newfound tactical awareness. Pikachu displayed better flexibility and agility, overcoming its earlier tendency to charge head-on.
On Misty's side, both Staryu and Starmie showed marked improvements in accuracy. Their Water Gun attacks became faster and more precise.
Ash and Misty took note of their Pokémon's progress and decided to incorporate these training sessions into their daily routine. Their shared goal was to grow stronger with their Pokémon.
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Encounters in the Forest
The night passed peacefully, and on the third morning, Ash and Misty continued their journey through the dense Viridian Forest. Along the way, they encountered two Trainers and decided to challenge them.
Ash faced one Trainer while Misty took on the other. Both battles ended in victories, further boosting their confidence.
"I feel like I've grown so much stronger since traveling with you," Misty admitted as they searched for a campsite.
Previously, her training had been sporadic and aimless. But Ash's influence had inspired her to adopt a more structured approach, focusing on both training and battling.
"You've helped me a lot too," Ash replied sincerely. Traveling with Misty had made the early days of his journey less overwhelming. Her companionship was a source of comfort and motivation.
"It would be better if you stopped trying to catch Bug-type Pokémon," Misty teased, though her tone carried genuine concern.
Ash laughed, knowing her aversion to Bug Pokémon. He had recently captured Pidgey, but his eyes were already set on catching another Pokémon.
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Weedle Appears
Ash had decided it was time to catch his third Pokémon. With Pikachu and Pidgey showing significant improvement, he could now afford to expand his team. He had his sights set on either Caterpie or Weedle, both of which had unique evolutionary advantages.
While Butterfree was versatile and skilled in status moves, Ash preferred Beedrill's raw offensive power. Its speed and aggressiveness aligned perfectly with his battle style. Moreover, Beedrill had a Mega Evolution, a transformation Ash hoped to unlock someday.
However, finding Weedle wasn't easy. Unlike Caterpie, Weedle often traveled in groups, making it risky to approach without provoking an entire swarm.
Just as Ash pondered this, fate intervened. While scouting for a campsite, they stumbled upon a lone Weedle perched on a tree branch.
Ash's eyes lit up. "This is perfect! Maybe I really am the protagonist of destiny," he thought, feeling a surge of excitement.
Misty, on the other hand, hid behind Ash, her fear of Bug Pokémon still evident despite her efforts to adapt.
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The Capture Battle
Ash stepped forward confidently. "Weedle, I'm going to catch you!" he declared, tossing a Poké Ball to release Pidgey.
The battle began. Weedle, though small, proved to be a formidable opponent. It moved with surprising agility, using Poison Sting to keep Pidgey on its toes.
Ash guided Pidgey through the fight, encouraging it to stay airborne and avoid close combat. "Keep your distance and strike with Gust!"
Pidgey obeyed, flapping its wings to unleash a powerful Gust attack. The force of the wind sent Weedle tumbling from the branch, but it quickly recovered, retaliating with another Poison Sting.
Ash admired Weedle's spirit. "You've got the heart of a fighter," he said, a smile on his face. "But this battle is ours!"
After a well-timed Quick Attack, Weedle was finally weakened. Ash seized the opportunity and threw a Poké Ball. The ball wobbled on the ground, signaling Weedle's resistance, but eventually, it clicked shut.
Ash had caught his third Pokémon!
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A Team Taking Shape
Ash held the Poké Ball triumphantly. "Welcome to the team, Weedle!" he said, his excitement palpable.
Misty peeked out from behind him, still wary of the new addition. "You're really set on Bug-types, aren't you?" she muttered, half-teasing, half-resigned.
Ash laughed. "Weedle's going to be a great asset. Just wait and see!"
That night, as they set up camp, Ash introduced Weedle to the team. Pikachu and Pidgey welcomed their new companion, while Misty kept her distance.
Ash spent the evening reviewing Weedle's abilities and planning its training regimen. His goal was clear: evolve Weedle into a Beedrill and unlock its full potential.
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The Journey Continues
With Weedle now part of the team, Ash felt a renewed sense of purpose. Each Pokémon he caught brought him closer to his dream of becoming a Pokémon Master.
As they prepared to leave the Viridian Forest, Ash and Misty reflected on how much they had grown—not just as Trainers, but as friends. Their journey was just beginning, but the bonds they were forming would carry them through any challenge.
For Ash, the road ahead was filled with possibilities. And with his team by his side, he was ready to face whatever came next.
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