Spike's Pokemon Journey

Chapters

Welcome to Pokemon!
New Trainer
The Everfree Forest

Welcome to Pokemon!

Somewhere far away, there is a world like ours. People live normal lives in the cities and towns around the world.

The world is also inhabited by strange creatures only known as Pokémon. They come in many shapes, forms and types but they all share a biological connection to each other.

Pokémon and humans live together in several regions all across the world. Some people have Pokémon for pets, others try to use them for battling. The relationship between people and Pokémon is one of friendship, trust, and respect. Scientists have tried to study Pokémon for years they have never uncovered all the secrets of Pokémon.

And first we come here, to the Equestrian Region. It is one of the larger regions and has many Pokémon. It has several towns and cities and is one of the only regions to have Two Pokémon League Champions.

But now we head to the town of Ponyville. Where one of the brightest of Pokémon Professors live, Professor Twilight Sparkle. She’s renown in the world of Science for her extraordinary research on Pokémon. She once lived in Canterlot but now lives in Ponyville after she was requested by one of the Pokémon League Champions to help young Pokémon trainers in a smaller town. She was uneasy at first but she has now settled in with some new friends.

She’s responsible for giving the children of Ponyville there starter Pokémon. They can choose from a selection of three Pokémon. A Fire type, a water type and a grass type. There are many different starter Pokémon and they are sent once a month by the Pokémon League.

But she doesn’t live alone. She has her own Pokémon nicknamed Owlowiscious, a HootHoot, and a young boy named Spike.

Spike had been with Twilight ever since he could remember. He helped her as she learned more and more on Pokémon and when she finally became a Pokémon Professor. When Twilight moved he was still relatively young so he didn’t miss Canterlot a lot and made new friends in Ponyville.

Okay, now that that is finished, onto the story!

As the sun neared its peak of midday, the boy named Spike mentioned before was sleeping upstairs above Twilight’s laboratory. He slept in his bed as the sun warmed his room nicely, letting him sleep comfortably.

Spike’s room had a single bed with a bedside table that had a clock and a green and white cap with a poke ball in the middle. He had a large glass door which lead to a balcony, and had several shelves of books opposite to his bed. There was a closet of clothes opposite to the glass door as well as the bedroom’s main door.

Spike eyes fluttered open and he yawned. He began to sit up and stretch his back. He smiled as he looked at his bedside clock, which quickly changed his reaction from pleasant to panic.

“Oh no!” He yelled as he quickly threw his blanket away and jumped up and rushed for his closet.

He rushed himself as he dressed himself in his usual clothes. He wore a green shirt with purple pants and a purple jacket. He tied his purple sneakers as fast as possible before quickly grabbing his hat and rushing out the door to the bathroom.

He stumbled as he tried to brush his teeth and then comb his green hair in the shortest time before accomplishing his appearance, slapping his hat on and running out of the bathroom before making his way down the stairs.

He jumped down the last step to see the laboratory that took up most of the first floor, with a huge glint of hope in his eye.

“Sorry Spike, I just gave away the last starter Pokémon.”

Spike was greeted by Professor Twilight Sparkle, wearing her usual lab coat with a purple shirt underneath and her dark purple hair, with one strip lavender and another pink.

“Again!?” Spike yelled.

“Yes, you slept in again.” Twilight said.

Spike just sighed in disappointment and lowered his head.

“How long has this been happening to me, two months now?” Spike asked.

“Two months and two weeks actually.” Twilight said as she walked over to Spike. She smiled at him and gave him a hug.

“Don’t worry, you’ll get a Pokémon one day.”

“Yeah, I know.” Spike said with slight doubt in his voice.

“Come on, I’ll make you some pancakes.” Twilight said, Spike’s smile instantly rose.

“Thanks Twilight.” Spike said.

Twilight walked to the kitchen and pulled out some pancake mix while Spike walked back upstairs to his bedroom to finish one of the Pokémon books he recently got.

Twilight eventually finished two stacks of pancakes and placed them on the table.

“Spike! Pancakes!”

Spike moved at lightning speed down to the table. Twilight giggled at Spike’s childish behaviour before eating some of the pancakes herself.

“Twilight, I think I’m going to need a new clock.”

“What do you mean Spike? Your clock’s perfectly fine.” Twilight said.

“Well every time I set an alarm on it, it never goes off. I end up waking up late and all the starters are gone.” Spike says.

“Hmm, tell you what, I’ll go in town later today and see what’s wrong with your clock.” Twilight said.

“Thanks Twi, for the pancakes and fixing my clock.” Spike said eat a pancake whole.

“You’re welcome Spike.” Twilight said.

Once the pancakes were finished, Twilight offered to do the dishes while Spike would head over to Sweet Apple acres to get some more apples as they were fresh out.

Spike walked outside to see the town’s people out and about. He smiled as he walked down the street seeing several people and their Pokémon going on with their day.

He was so distracted with the day that he didn’t see the person in front of him, and of course he bumped into them; he fell on his rump with an ‘oof!’

“Sorry about that.”

“You should be you big loser!”

Oh Arceus.

Spike looked up to see someone he doesn’t particularly enjoy seeing. It was a girl about his age, wearing a pink dress, sparkling fake pink high heels, diamond earrings and a silver tiara.

“Hey Diamond Tiara.” Spike said as he got himself up.

“Watch where you’re going next time, you have any idea how much this dress costs?” She asked him.

“A check from your daddy?” Spike asked, smiling to himself.

“Hmpf, at least I can have stuff like this. You don’t even have a

Pokemon!” She said.

“Neither do you.” Spike replied.

Diamond just smiled and laughed as she bumped Spike out of the way.

“Don’t need to wait for one, my daddy says he’s going to buy me the most beautiful starting Pokémon ever! Ha! Later loser!” She laughed and laughed as she walked away from Spike. He clenched his fist in anger before walking back on track.

He soon left the town’s streets and houses and found himself on a dirt path with apple trees and a white wooden fence in the distance. He smiled as he could smell the fresh baked apples from the smooth breeze that was blowing, probably Granny Smith making an apple baked dish again.

He walked through the gate a headed for the apple trees. Either Applejack or Applebloom would probably be somewhere there to give him his apples. He guessed right as he found another girl his age next to an apple tree. She wore blue overalls, a yellow t-shirt with a massive red bow in her red hair.

“Hey Applebloom!” Spike yelled.

The girl turned to see Spike and waved back at him.

“Hey Spike, what bring you ‘round here?” She asks him.

“Twilight sent me to get some apples from you guys.”

“Ah, well we better go get Applejack. She’s with the Ponyta.” Applebloom said as she led the way.

Spike followed Applebloom until they could see a white fence through the apple trees. Were they came across several Ponyta’s grazing in the grass.

“You sure have a lot of Ponyta’s.” Spike said leaning on the fence.

“Eeyup! Were the best in the business!” Applebloom said with pride.

“So where’s Applejack?” Spike asked.

“Right here sugarcube.”

Spike looked to his right to see a girl the same age as Twilight sitting on a Rapidash with a saddle. She wore an orange buttoned shirt with white lines, blue jeans, brown boots, and a big Stetson hat. She also had large yellow hair tied in a red band at the end.

“Nice to see you again Applejack.” Spike said as he walked up to the Rapidash, The Pokemon whining happily and rubbing his snot into Spike’s chest.

“Looks like Rapidash here missed ya.” Applejack chuckled.

“He sure did.” Spike said as he patted the snout.

“So, ya here for tha apples?” Applejack asked.

“Yep.” Spike said.

“Ah thought so.” Applejack said as she jumped off Rapidash and opened one of the saddlebags. She pulled out a bag of an assortment of apples and handed it to Spike.

“Here ya go. One bag of fresh apple family apples.”

“Thanks Applejack, these look great. As usual.” Spike complemented.

“Ya welcome Spike, now ya better get back to Twilight. She’s gonna send a search party if ya a minute late.” Applejack joked.

“That sounds like Twilight.” Applebloom said, all the three had a good laugh at the joke.

“Applebloom, why dontcha help Spike outta here while I go find Big Mac and Winona and see how their doin’ with the Miltank.” Applejack said before she jumped back onto Rapidash and trotted off.

“Come on Spike, time’s a wastin’.” Applebloom said. Spike nodded and the two walked away.

As they walked, Applebloom brought up a particular topic.

“Ya know it’s a week before I turn ten. And I get my first Pokemon.”

“Oh yeah. But I thought you already had a Pokemon of your own, you living on a farm and everything.” Spike said.

“Yeah, but all of tha Pokemon belong ta my siblings and Granny Smith to. This is when ah get my first Pokemon.” Applebloom explained.

“Ah; well I know the next Pokémon we get is in two weeks. And I think we get is Froakie, Turtwig and Torchic.” Spike explained.

“Ah thought ya still had two Pokemon with ya?” Applebloom asked.

“Me to, but Twilight told me she had already given it to other trainers this morning.”

“Broken alarm again?” Applebloom asked like she knew.

“Yep.”

“Well darn, ah wanted to get Mudkip.”

“Sorry Applebloom. You could wait but I don’t know when we’ll get another one from the Pokemon League.” Spike told her.

“Nah, it’s okay. Any Pokemon is fine by me.” She said.

The two reached the end of the farm, with Spike waving goodbye to Applebloom who was waving from the gate. Spike walked on the path back to Ponyville, unaware of the Aipom that plotted to steal said apples from him.

Spike saw the town’s first buildings in the horizon, glad that his trek was almost over. The bag of apples was slung over his shoulder as he happily walked down the path. But his vision was blinded as he felt something on his shoulders.

“Hey, what the-“He pulled his off of his eyes to see an Aipom dancing in front of him while holding the apples.

“Hey! Give those back!” Spike yelled. The Aipom blew a raspberry at him before running towards the Everfree forest, Spike chasing the Pokemon thief.

The Aipom laughed all the way as Spike tried to grab it, but it was too quick for him. The Aipom jumped with its strength and grabbed a branch of a tree and disappeared into the Everfree forest; Spike, being the loyal friend he is to Twilight, decided to continue pursuing the Aipom.

Spike hopes became less and less as he pushed branches and bushes out of the way but the purple Pokémon became a purple blob barely seen. He wouldn’t give up though and kept on running, but he was running out of breath.

Spike couldn’t keep up anymore and stopped when he got to one of the many dirt paths of the Everfree, he stopped as he had ran out of breath and grabbed his knees.

“He got away…Twilight’s going to be so-“

Spike stopped short of finishing that sentence as he heard the tall grass behind him rustle. He immediately turned around to see something coming straight for him through the grass.

“Oh no.” Spike said as he braced for whatever Pokemon jumped out at him. He took a deep breath as the Pokemon got closer and closer towards him. But he was quickly surprised as to what it was.

It wasn’t any of the usual forest Pokemon, it wasn’t even a Pokemon usually found in other parts of Equestria.

It was a Charmander.

Spike looked amazing as the little orange Pokemon ran out of the grass at a great speed, but dug its little feet into the ground to stop. Spike looked in awe as the Pokemon seemed to catch its breath; which looked up and jumped in fright at the sight of a human.

Neither of the two seemed to move as each looked as scared as the other, thinking there next move should include running away from the other in fear of injury.

Spike looked at the little Pokemon but noticed that the tall grass behind it was moving towards him again, except it was much bigger this time. The Charmander noticed Spike’s gaze and looked behind him, and immediately remembered what he was running away from. The Charmander jumped towards Spike and turned around, scared for its life.

Spike raised his eyebrow as the Charmander jumped but immediately left his curiosity behind as he saw a terrifying sight. Three Mightyenas, teeth sharp and not looking very happy.

The Mightyenas growled and barked at the two in front of them, and slowly closing in on them. Spike and the Charmander looked at each other with the exact same thought.

Run.

The two sprinted down the path away from the Everfree Mountain and towards Ponyville, the Mightyenas hot on their trail. Spike looked back to see the Pokemon pursuers, and his face got paler immediately. Spike looked at the Charmander and it was struggling to keep up with him; he didn’t notice it before but he saw several scratches on the Charmanders body, and guessed the Mightyenas were coming to finish the job.

Spike was quick to react as he could practically feel the Mightyenas chomp right behind, and picked up the Charmander and pushed his legs to the limit. Spike made a shield for the Charmander while also trying to avoid setting his clothes on fire with the Charmanders tail.

“Don’t worry little guy, I’ll protect ya.” Spike said as his adrenaline pumped his legs to run even faster, gaining some distance from the Mightyenas.

The Charmander looked up at the human boy that was trying to save him, the look on the boy’s face showed he seemed to be as in as much pain as he was, but he was still saving him.

Spike’s whole body was red and legs began to ache but the adrenaline in his body ignored the pain and He kept running. Spike was really hoping he would soon find Fluttershy’s cottage, or the Mightyena might make chow out of him and the Charmander.

“Fluttershy!” Spike cried.

Outside of the Everfree was a small cottage, were several small Pokemon were flocking and enjoying their day around it. The person who owned the cottage was another girl that was as tall as Twilight and Applejack who wore a yellow shirt, pink skirt and had long pink hair. She was currently taking care of an Ursaring that usually visited.

“Do you feel better Mr.Ursaring?” She asked, the Pokemon growling in gratitude as she wrapped a bandage around its arm.

“You should stop trying to battle all the Pokemon you see. You’re going to get seriously hurt again.” She told the Ursaring, who responded with a growl.

“There, you should be better in a few days.” The girl said as she finished the bandage. The Ursaring got to his feet and growled a thanks to the girl.

“Fluttershy!”

The Girl jumped as she heard her name being called from the Everfree, but the voice sounded like one she had heard before.

“Is that Spike?” She asked herself.

“Fluttershy!”

She defiantly knew who it was now, she recognized that boys voice anywhere.

“Spike, what is-“

She gasped as she saw the young trainer run out of the bushes holding a Charmander in his hands, Spike looking not to fine himself.

“Oh thank Arceus I made it!” Spike yelled as he ran over to Fluttershy.

“Spike what happened to you?” Fluttershy asked concerned.

Spike was going to tell her but the Mightyenas had already jumped out of the bush. They were going to continue their hunt but the sight of an angry Ursaring made them rethink of what to do next. They slowly walked backwards before running back into the Everfree.

Spike took a breather for the first time since he saw the Mightyenas to begin with, which reminded him of his injured acquaintance.

“Fluttershy, this Charmanders hurt, can you heal him?” Spike asked.

“Of course, come inside.” She said as she led the exhausted duo into her house.

“I’ll take care of Charmander, you better get some rest yourself mister.” She said as she took Charmander from Spikes arms. Spike could only nod before he went to sit on Fluttershys couch; and felt relaxed and comfortable as he got off his aching legs.

He felt very hot from all of the running and felt relief in his bones before he began to grow tired, all of his energy gone. He yawned before he fell asleep on Fluttershy’s couch.

New Trainer

Spike awoke to the sunshine hitting his face, keeping him warm on the sofa in which he slept on. His eyes twitched before fully watching the world around him. He let out a yawn and stretched his arms and legs, which felt tired but Spike walked it off as he stood up from the sofa.

He looked around and realised he was in Fluttershy’s cottage, and his memory came back to him as he recalled the previous events of the day.

“The Charamander!” He said as Fluttershy walked down the stairs to see the boy up.

“Ah, you’re up Spike. How did you rest?” She asked.

“Oh fine thanks. How is the Charmander?” Spike asked.

“He’s resting now. Good thing you helped it Spike, he had a lot of scratches and he was actually poisoned. It could have been worse if you didn’t help the poor dear.” Fluttershy said, Spike sighed in relief.

“Thank Arceus, I thought I would be to slow.” Spike admitted.

“Come upstairs Spike, I think he’d like to thank you.” Fluttershy said.

“Alright.” Spike walked behind Fluttershy as he followed her up the stairs.

Spike walked up stairs to see the Charmander lying on his stomach on a small bed on a bench, eyes closed as it breathed peacefully, the clean bandages wrapped around his arms and on his tail. Spike smiled at the sight, and to see the Charmander better then when he first met it. The Charmander opened his eyes to see Spike and instantly raised his head. Spike froze at the sudden motion as he had no idea really what the Charmander was thinking.

Fluttershy walked up to the Charmander and began to pet its head, to which the Charmander replied by rubbing his muzzle into the hand and making a noise that sounded like he was enjoying the feeling. Fluttershy smiled at Spike and motioned him over.

“Come over Spike. Why don’t you try it?”

“Umm, sure…” Spike said unsure as he walked over, he uneasily raised his hand to pet the Charmander, who had noticed the boy again and turned his attention to the hand. The Charmander looked up at Spike which didn’t help Spike as he tried to guess the Charmander’s feelings towards him.

“Easy boy, easy. I don’t want to hurt you.” Spike said as he slowly and carefully moved his hand forward.

Spike touched the Charmanders face, the contact making him feel awkward and even scared that he may never see his hand the same again. But the Charmander slowly began to nuzzle Spike’s hand, and soon a weight was lifted off of Spike’s shoulders as the Charmander nuzzled him. Fluttershy smiled as she saw the connection between the boy and the Pokémon.

The moment was interrupted however as a Bunnelby jumped onto the bench, and tapped its foot while looking irritated. Fluttershy, Spike and the Charmander all turned to the Bunnelby.

“Oh, is it time for afternoon tea Angel? Okay, Spike, can you help me in the kitchen?” Fluttershy asked.

“Of course.” Spike said as the two walked back down the stairs. The Bunnelby looked at the Charmander and blew a raspberry at the Charmander before turning around, arms crossed and waiting for his food. But after a while, he began to smell smoke, and felt very warm behind him. He looked back to see his fur was almost set alight by the Charmander’s tail fire.

The Bunnelby named angel immediately jumped up and ran out of the room and down the stairs, a trail of smoke following him as the Charmander chuckled.

Spike and Fluttershy were definitely not expecting to see Angel run down the stairs with his rump on fire. Fluttershy quickly finished what see was doing and reached for some water to pour on the Bunnelby. Spike watched as Fluttershy helped the Bunnelby and although he wouldn’t admit it, he took a small bit of enjoyment for the Pokémon that as far as he knew wasn’t very fun.

Fluttershy finally ended the fire and got Angel to calm down and sit while he waited for his snack. Fluttershy walked over to see Spike holding the finished snacks.

“Here we are, two servings of Pokemon food.”

“Oh thank you Spike. Why don’t you go up and fed Charmander while I take care of Angel.” She said.

“Um, okay.” Spike said. He knew the Charmander somewhat trusted him but the sight of Angel of fire brought a scenario to the back of his head. He walked up the stairs with the tray and brought it over to the Charmander. The Charmander got excited as he saw the food being brought towards him, and instantly grabbed the food before stuffing his face. Spike chuckled at the little creature before he rubbed the back of the Charmander’s head, who let the boy procced as he ate his food.

Fluttershy walked back up to see the boy and the Pokémon getting along.

“Looks like you two are becoming fast friends.” She commented.

“Yeah, he’s seems really happy when I scratch him in the right spot.” Spike said, proving his point as the Charmander made a noise in appreciation.

Fluttershy giggled at the silly behaviour before something dawned on her.

“Spike, you’ve never had your own Pokémon have you?” Fluttershy asked.

“Yeah. I’m always waking up to late before the starting Pokémon are gone.” Spike said.

“Well Charmander here seems to really like you, maybe he could be your Pokémon.” Fluttershy suggested.

Fluttershy’s suggestion made Spike and Charmander stop the scratching and let the idea slip into their judgement. Spike himself was really interested. He always wanted a starter Pokémon so he could finally go somewhere other than Ponyville and sometimes Canterlot. But he trusted the Pokémon he got from the Pokémon league because they were trained before they arrived, but this Charmander was a wild Pokémon, and he had no idea what it would be like. Most of the books in the lab on wild Pokémon talk on how to battle, avoid or capture them, not having them as a starter Pokémon.

“Um…maybe, but what about Charmander? What if he doesn’t want to become a caught Pokémon?” Spike asked.

“Oh that’s simple.” Fluttershy said as she leaned towards Charmander who paid full attention to what she had to say.

“Mr.Charmander, would you be okay if you became Spike’s first Pokémon?” She asked.

The Charmander looked down on the ground, as it went through its own gains and losses. Spike and Fluttershy waited for some time until Charmander looked up to Spike. The two looked each other in the eyes for a while until Charmander looked at Fluttershy and said ‘Char’. Fluttershy smiled and looked at Spike.

“Looks like you have a new friend Spike.” She said. Spike grew a smile as he finally got himself a Pokémon.

“Yes!” Spike jumped in joy, and Fluttershy giggled at his victory pose.

“I have a spare Pokeball, I’ll give it to you so you can make it official.” Fluttershy said as she walked back down the stairs. Spike walked in front of the Charmander and got down to eye-level with him.

“You really want to be my Pokémon?” Spike asked. A lick to his face was the answer he got, and he laughed at the Pokémon’s act.

Fluttershy soon came back up with a Pokeball in her hand. She handed it to Spike as he walked to the other side of the room and Fluttershy removed the bandages from Charmander. Spike looked at the Pokeball and then back to Charmander who was now standing on his legs again.

“Go ahead Spike.” Fluttershy said.

“Char.” Charmander nodded.

Spike smiled at the two before throwing the Pokeball at Charmander. The Pokeball hit the Charmanders yellow stomach before the Pokeball opened and Charmander was encased in energy and sucked into the Pokeball before closing.

Spike watched anxiously as the Pokeball wriggled once. Twice. An audiable click was soon heard.

“CONGRATULATIONS!!!”

Spike had an immediate heart attack and fell forward onto the floor. He stopped just from smashing his nose and turned around to see who shouted right behind him.

It was another girl Fluttershy’s age, with pink poofy hair that could be mistaken for cotton candy. It was Pinkie Pie, a girl Spike knew as someone totally unpredictable. She wore a pink shirt with three balloons on it, two blue and one yellow, a pink skirt and two pink shoes.

“Pinkie!? What are you doing here? How did you even get in?” Spike asked the girl. She just giggled as an Abra and a Sandile appeared from behind Pinkie.

“Abra used teleport to send us here from town!” Pinkie Explained.

“But how did you know I was catching a Pokemon?” Spike continued.

“Oh I have my ways.” Pinkie said with a sly smile. Spike gave up and walked over to the Pokeball and picked it up.

“Hello Pinkie, would you like something to drink?” Fluttershy asked.

“No thank you, I’ve got to organise a party right away!”

“Party? For what?”

“For Spike becoming a trainer of course! He’s been waiting so long to become a trainer, and now he is, we have to celebrate!” Pinkie said supporting her logic.

“You don’t have to throw a party just for me Pinkie.” Spike said.

“Are you kidding!? I have to throw you a party! It’s what I do! I want to do it Spike! Please?” Pinkie said that last word with a pout and puppy dog eyes.

How she does that I’ll never know.

“Okay Pinkie, but as long as it’s only us and our friends.” Spike said. Pinkie jumped for joy and had a huge smile.

“Okie, Dokie, Loki!” She said before disappearing as her Abra teleported her out of the room.

“I’ll never understand Pinkie Pie.” Spike said out loud.

“I don’t think anyone does.” Fluttershy said giggling. Spike suddenly realised something he forgot about.

“Oh no! Twilight’s probably worried sick about me. I better get back home.” Spike said as he began to run for the door.

“Sorry to leave in a rush Fluttershy! Thanks for the help!” He yelled to her as he ran out of the cottage.

“See you at the party Spike!” She yelled back with a wave, which Spike replied with a wave of his own before he continued running, his new Pokémon in hand.

Spike ran through Ponyville once again, passing through the crowds to make his way to the lab. He passed through one last group of people before the laboratory was in sight.

Spike was excited, he wondered how Twilight would react. He would always wake up to see other children leave with a smile on their faces leave the building with their new Pokémon. Now he could go and explore more of the region other than Ponyville and Canterlot, he couldn’t wait!

Spike was quick to open the door and was about to call for Twilight except she was standing there with a scowl waiting for Spike.

“Twilight! I-“

“Where have you been Spike? I was worried sick!” Twilight cut him off. Spike’s expression changed quickly from happy to slightly embarrassed.

“It’s, uh, a long story.” Spike said.

“I’ve got time.” Twilight said.

“Well, I was bringing the apples back. But an Aipom grabbed the bag and ran off into the Everfree. I followed it to try and get the apples back when I ran into some Mightyenas and-“

“Mightyenas!” Twilight immediately forgot everything and pulled Spike into a tight hug.

“Are you hurt!? Are you alright!?”

“Twilight, I’m-“

“How many fingers am I holding up!?” Twilight said holding up three fingers.

“Twilight.-“

“Oh no! You’re delusional! Quick, lets head to the-“

“TWILIGHT!” Spike yelled, snapping Twilight out of her worried state.

“I’m fine, really, just a bit tired.” Spike said.

“Are you sure?” Twilight asked, still worried.

“Really. I’m okay.” Spike pulled Twilight in for a hug, which she happily accepted.

“Okay. Thanks for stopping me going overboard…again.” Twilight giggled.

“That’s what I’m here for.” Spike said as they broke the hug.

“Actually Twilight, I didn’t just run into Mightyenas.” He admitted, tightening the grip on the Pokeball behind his back.

“You weren’t chased by a Luxray were you?” She asked, concern coming back.

“No, something better.” Spike said as he pulled out the Pokeball and pushed the button. The Pokeball opened as energy flowed out onto a nearby bench, before it formed the Charmander.

Spike smiled as Twilight eyed the Charmander with curiosity.

“A Charmander? Whose is it Spike?” She asked.

“Mine Twilight. He’s my first Pokémon!” Spike said excitingly, Charmander nodded his head to confirm Spike’s statement.

Twilight’s eyes widened as she stepped back a bit, her balance slightly off. She looked at the Charmander and then at Spike.

“Twilight? You okay?” Spike asked.

Twilight slowly regained her balance before she put on a fake smile.

“I’m fine. That’s great Spike. You finally have your…own Pokemon.” She said, fake smile all the way.

“Yeah, Pinkie’s throwing a party to celebrate. Anyway, I’m going to quickly show Charmander around before Pinkie probably comes by. Come on Charmander, follow me.” Spike said.

Charmander jumped down from the bench and followed Spike upstairs to the living quarters. Twilight sighed in relief as she could stop the fake smile since Spike left, but she began to grow worried. She walked up and down the lab floor, her mind in deep thought.

Oh no, oh no. What do I do? I wasn’t ready for this! If only this happened a few years later. What’s stopping Spike now from-

“Whatcha doin’?”

Twilight screamed and jumped high as she turned around to see Pinkie Pie standing behind her.

“Pinkie! When did you get here!? You gave me a heart attack!” Twilight said.

“Abra used teleport! Sooooooooooo, what were ya doin’?” Pinkie asked.

“Um…just thinking.” Twilight responded, hoping Pinkie would buy the lie.

“Okie dokie! I came by to grab you guys for the party! Everyone else is at Sugarcube corner.” Pinkie explained. Soon Spike walked into the room with Charmander next to him.

“Hey Pinkie, the party ready?” Spike asked.

“Yep! See ya there!” Pinkie said right before she flied out through the door.

“Spike, what’s this party about?” Twilight asked.

“Oh. Pinkie decided to throw a party to celebrate me becoming a trainer. She only invited our friends though, so it’s not like her usual parties.” Spike said as he walked down the stairs. He then pulled out his Pokeball and spoke to Charmander.

“Okay Charmander, back into your Pokeball for now.”

Charmander nodded and was soon returned to the Pokeball, which Spike then put back into his pocket. He then looked up to see Twilight in deep thought.

Okay, calm down Twilight. It’s not bad. It’s just your little Spike going out into a world he has no idea about fighting monsters that could easily-

“You coming Twilight?”

“Huh?” Twilight looked to see Spike looking at her slightly worried.

“Yeah, sure. Let’s go.” She said as the two left the lab and headed for Sugarcube corner.

The two arrived at a building that looked like it was built out of candy, and walked in to be greeted by Pinkie holding a tray with green cupcakes.

“Hey guys! Cupcake!?” Pinkie asked. Twilight and Spike grabbed a cupcake before Pinkie zoomed off.

“I swear even Starswill wouldn’t be able to understand her.” Twilight said.

“She IS Pinkie.” Spike pointed out as he took a bit out of his cupcake.

“True.” Twilight said, her mind still in a loop as she took a bit of her cupcake.

This cupcake is delicious at least.

Spike also enjoyed the cupcake as he walked over to the drinks table. He finished the cupcake and whipped the crumbs of his face and grabbed a can of lemonade. He cracked the can open and was about to drink but was stopped as he was grabbed around the neck by someone behind him.

“So, what this I hear of my favourite guy getting a Pokémon of his own?”

Spike recognized the voice, and looked up to see a girl with Rainbow coloured hair.

“Hey Rainbow, can you let me go?” Spike asked.

“Not after this.” Rainbow said as she began to rub Spike’s head, with Spike trying to resist the annoyance.

“Oh Rainbow, leave the poor dear alone. It is his party.” A voice said.

Rainbow released Spike, who rubbed his neck to see Rainbow wearing a cyan jacket, a cyan sport t-shirt, a pair of cyan sport shorts, and sneakers. He also looked to see a girl wearing a pure white dress, dress shoes and purple curly hair. Spike was immediately captured by the girl’s beauty.

“H-Hello Rarity.” Spike said.

“Hello Spike. Congratulations on getting a Pokemon.” Rarity said as she hugged the boy, who eagerly returned the hug.

“Thank you Rarity.” Spike said. Rarity giggled and pecked Spike on they broke the hug. Spike immediately blushed and stood stiff.

“I think you broke him Rarity.” Rainbow commented as she started to try and break Spike out of his trance.

“Dude? Dude? Hey, Spike!” Rainbow yelled, causing Spike to shake his head and look at the rainbow girl.

“Yeah?”

“What Pokemon did you get anyway?” Rainbow asked.

“A Charmander.” Spike replied as he finally took a sip of his lemonade.

“Charmander? I thought you guys didn’t have a Charmander.” Rainbow pointed out.

“Yeah, I caught the guy after saving him from some Mightyenas in the Everfree.” Spike said.

“Mightyenas! Oh you poor thing!” Rarity said as she grabbed Spike and examined him violently, not that he minded.

“Are you injured? Hurt?”

“I’m fine Rarity, Fluttershy patched me up.” Spike explained as he escaped Rarity’s grip.

“Oh thank Arceus, I couldn’t imagine if anything happened to my Spikey Wikey” Rarity exclaimed, a bit over dramatic to the amusement of Rainbow. She laughed and got a sour look from Rarity, while Spike took a sip from his drink.

“So Spike, when can I expect you to come around the gym?” Rainbow asked.

Spike opened his mouth to answer but nothing came out as he realised he never really thought about it. He was more concentrated on getting a Pokémon more than getting gym badges. Rainbow herself was the gym leader of the Ponyville gym, and regularly battled the new trainers that arrived straight from Twilight’s lab, confident they could win.

“I-I don’t really know Rainbow. I’ll probably train Charmander first before fully challenging you.” Spike told Rainbow. Rainbow smiled and patted Spike on the back.

“Looks like you learned something from me Spike, Keep it up and you might have a chance to beat me. But don’t push your luck; you’ll need to seriously train if you want to challenge me.” Rainbow said, Spike smiled to her and took another sip from his drink.

The party went on for several hours, all into the early night. Spike got congrats from Applejack, who gave him a jar of zap apple juice and some apples for his trip. Fluttershy also gave Spike some potions and other bottles to cure any condition Charmander suffered from. Pinkie pie gave Spike a bag filled with sugary sweetness and some special lemonades in case he or Charmander got hurt. Rarity gave Spike several gems, many he had helped Rarity gather, to use as money in Pokemarts to buy any extra goods he might need. Rainbow also gave Spike some advice for battling and catching Pokémon, so that he could challenge the gyms. By the end of it, Spike and Twilight entered the lab with full pockets and tired bodies.

The next morning, Spike made himself, Twilight and Charmander breakfast before he got ready to leave on his journey. Spike made sure his bag had all the items he had gotten last night and Charmander’s Pokeball before the two meet with Twilight near the door. Twilight held out several Pokeballs and a Pokedex in her hands.

“Here you go Spike. Here’s my gift to you for your journey.” Twilight said as Spike grabbed the Pokedex and the Pokeballs and placing them in his pockets.

“Thanks Twilight.” He said.

The two pulled each other into a hug as a final goodbye. Spike felt this hug was different however, as Twilight seemed to be gripping onto him tighter. She also held on the hug for a long time.

“Twilight? You okay?” Spike asked, Twilight finally letting go.

“Yeah, I’m fine Spike.” She said.

“Okay…see you later Twilight.” Spike said as he and Charmander walked out of the lab.

“Be sure to visit!” Twilight called out, Spike turned around and waved back.

“We will!”

Twilight watched as Spike and Charmander disappeared, she sighed as she say her longest friend and assistant leave her.

Please just be safe Spike. I need you back here.

The Everfree Forest

The Everfree forest, a first step for many new trainers in Ponyville. Filled with many normal Pokémon, it’s considered a good spot for beginners of the region. Although you wouldn’t consider it due to the gloom effects on display. Mist and fog constantly floating around and the trees drooping as had been doing for some time. Tall high grass where a trainer might find himself attacked by a wild Pokémon.

That was where Spike and his Charmander were. Standing on a pathway just outside of the forest. The two looked to each other, sharing a slightly worried glance before proceeding onwards.

Spike had been here many times before, walking to Zecora’s and back he was pretty familiar with the forest. It didn’t mean he wasn’t ever surprised by the environment. He looked down at his Charmander, who looked right back up at him. Spike let out a deep breath, calming his nerves slightly before nodding to his Charmander; the two walking off into the Everfree.

They soon found themselves near a patch of thick tall grass, trees all around surrounding them. Spike looked around to see for any wild Pokémon.

“Charmander, look out for any wild Pokémon, we don’t want another run in with Mightyena's again.” Spike told his Pokémon, who nodded and also began to look around.

Spike gazed through the trees and the grass, almost finding no life wherever he looked. The rustling of nearby grass however drew his attention. He and his Charmander turned to see wild grass moving, something coming right towards them.

The two waited in anxiousness, not wanting another Mightyena to pop up again. The Pokémon got closer until it popped out of the grass, revealing itself to be an Ekans.

“An Ekans!” Spike stated, he pulled out his pokedex and soon an image of the purple snake came up.

“Ekans. Snake Pokémon. It sneaks through grass without making a sound and strikes unsuspecting prey from behind.”

“It’s not very good at it then.” Spike said before putting the Pokedex away.

“Okay Charmander, it’s our first battle. Let’s do this!” Spike said to his Charmander, who nodded and smiled at his trainer before jumping in front of the Ekans.

“Use scratch!” Spike said.

Charmander ran towards the Ekans, claws ready before he jumped in the air and slashed the Ekans. It let out a grunt in pain before it wrapped his whole body around the Charmander.

“It used wrap! Quick Charmander! Scratch again!” Spike said.

The Charmander struggled in the wrap, taking small damaged from the tight confines of the snake Pokémon. But was able to get his claw free and scratched the Ekans face. The Pokémon screeched in pain before Charmander jumped back to Spike.

“Nice work there buddy.” Spike said.

The Ekans slowly slithered up and stared at Charmander, using leer to lower his defence.

“Quick Charmander! One more scratch should do the trick!” Spike said.

The small dragon smiled and charged yet again, claw ready for the finishing blow; one scratch and the Ekans was knocked back and knocked out. The duo had won the battle.

“We won!”

Charmander and Spike celebrated their victory with a little dance of joy, Spike soon noticing something.

“Wait, why am I tired?” Spike asked, confused.

Spike’s adrenaline had climbed down a bit, and he noticed that he had a distinct lack of air in his lungs. His arms felt heavy and he felt slightly weak in the legs. He rubbed the back of his neck and smiled.

“I guess that fight took some energy out of me to.”

His Charmander nodded, also resting slightly from his fight with the snake Pokémon, the wrap attack really giving him some pain in his body.

But soon his ears picked something up, the sound of little feet on a nearby branch alerted him that another Pokémon had showed up.

Charmander quickly jumped away as something crashed directly into the ground where he was standing. Spike scrabbled for his Pokedex as the Pokémon pulled itself out of the hole in the ground, shaking the dirt off its beck, swirls on his eyes. He aimed the Pokedex to record the Pokémon properly.

“Pidgey. Tiny Bird Pokémon. It is docile and prefers to avoid conflict. If disturbed, however, it can ferociously strike back.”

Spike put the Pokedex away as he noticed the Pidgeys eyes, and how it was struggling to stand up straight.

“Must’ve hit its head way to hard trying to use tackle, Charmander! Use scratch!”

Charmander was quick to act and with one hit, knocked the confused Pidgey out. The bird Pokemon landing in a soft patch of tall grass.

“Alright, good job Charmander, do you want to rest in your Pokeball?”

Spike asked his Pokémon. Charmander nodded as Spike pulled out the red and white ball. He pressed the button and threw it up in the air.

“Charmander return!”

The Pokeball opened as Charmander was surrounded by red energy before shrinking and flying into the ball. A click was heard before the ball bounced off the ground and back to Spike, who caught it with one hand.

He placed the Pokeball away in his bag and continued to walk on.

Spike walked further into the Everfree, avoiding the tall grass for any further encounters with wild Pokémon. He followed a path and soon found himself in a clearing, a small stream of water glistening in the sunlight.

“Finally, natural light!” Spike said outloud to himself, immediately regretting the decision and thankful no one was around. He turned his attention to the stream, watching where it leaves and enters the clearing, he looked left to see the stream head towards Ponyville, probably a part of the local river in town, and to the right it went deeper, towards the huge mountain behind the Everfree.

Spike reached into his bag and pulled out Charmander’s Pokeball, pressing the button and releasing his Pokemon on the ground before putting the ball away.

“Okay Charmander,” Spike announced to his Pokemon, “First I’ll give you something to eat, then for the next few hours were going to train you up so we can take on the next gym; sound good to you?”

Charmander nodded and Spike smiled.

“Okay then, let me just get some Poke-food.”

After the small energy boost, the two went on to training in the clearing. Charmander and Spike explored the surrounding areas to see if any wild Pokemon would attack; they were lucky as it seemed many Pokémon didn’t like the two in the first place. Spike’s Pokedex had at least eleven Pokemon recorded by the time the two took another break, Charmander slowly being able to take out the Pokemon with one hit. The real surprise come however after their first battle training.

A Bidoof found itself knocked back after being scratched by Charmander a second time. Spike did a fist bump before his Pokedex made a noise, alerting him of a notification. He pulled it out of his pocket and opened the device, clicking on where his Pokemon were listed and reading Charmander’s profile.

“Charmander, you learned a new move?” Spike asked.

The Pokemon nodded, quickly rushing around grabbing some nearby twigs and running back to the clearing.

“Hey what are you doing?” Spike asked.

Charmander placed the twigs down near the stream, and took a deep breath before opening his mouth, a small fireball popping out; the twigs catching on fire and burning. Spike watched in awe of his Pokémon before smiling and putting the pokedex away.

“You learned ember, nice work Charmander!” Spike walked up and gave his Pokemon a hug, who returned the friendly hug before the two broke it off. Spike quickly pushed the twigs into the river with his foot before noticing a Sudowoodo standing in front of them, ready to fight.

“Looks like a volunteer Charmander.” Spike said, his Pokemon grinning as he prepared the attack again.

The second time came from after fighting a horde of Oddish’s, all of them easily beaten with Ember now available. Spike heard a familiar noise and pulled his Pokedex out again.

“Smokescreen?”

The Pokémon nodded and proceeded to take a deep breath and blow smoke out of its nose to create a screen around him. Spike waved a hand in front of his face and coughed before the smoke finally cleared. Charmander walked over to make sure his trainer was okay.

“I’m fine Charmander, I’m fine.” Spike said, the two continuing their training.

An hour had passed, Spike and Charmander finishing the training with Charmander being stronger and knowing two new moves; however, the two decided to go up the river, explore the forest for stronger Pokémon to fight. The sun leaning slightly westward as they left the clearing.

Walking near the river, Spike noticed Charmander standing next to him away from the river, which made sense to him since Charmander was a fire-type Pokémon, and if the fire on his tail went out, he would die.

The sun still shined through the trees; unlike the entrance, the middle of the forest was quite pleasant on a sunny day. Spike particularly enjoyed the weather for today, thankful his first day as a trainer wasn’t terrible, a smile on his face as his head leaned back into his arms, looking up above at the clear sky.

Spike’s smile disappeared as he heard something loud in the distance, further up the river. He stopped looking at the sky and looked up a head, the sounds of battle being heard over the hill where the river lay and began; he turned to his Charmander, who looked up at him with a similar look before the two began a sprint up the hill, towards the commotion.

Spike and Charmander ran and ran until they reached a lake, the source of the river, where the mountain base was blocked only by a few trees, bushes and patches of tall grass. Their attention was drawn to the three characters that stood by the lake.

There was a trainer and two Pokémon, a Spearow, looking very angry, and a Dratini, which appeared to be bruised and was breathing heavily. The trainer stood behind the Spearow. He stood taller than Spike, by a foot at least, he wore a red leather jacket, simple jeans with cuts in them for design, black shoes and had a tall yellow spiky Mohawk.

“Urgh, this is stupid, why don’t you just dodge the freaking thing?” The trainer said to the Dratini.

The Pokémon winced in pain as it tried to stand on its tail, struggling to stand straight. The trainer just smacked his face and groaned.

“C’mon, I went through the trouble of catching you, the least you could do is actually be strong.”

The Dratini just began to shake more and more until it fell onto the ground, trying to curl up into a protective ball due to the pain. The trainer’s patience had run out and was now fuming.

“That’s it! Spearow, just finish her off, we’re just going to have to find another.”

The bird Pokémon jumped in the air, flapping its wings to keep it airborne as it got ready to finish the Dratini off. Its beck glowed energy as it dive bombed the Dratini, which could do nothing but close its eyes as it waited for the final hit.

“Charmander! Ember!”

A fireball hit the Spearow mid-attack, stopping the peck attack and sending it to the ground. The trainer looked in shock before angrily turning to the source of the attack, Spike and Charmander, ready for a fight if needed.

“Hey, what’s the big idea!?” The trainer yelled, furious at the new arrivals.

“What’s the big idea? Look at what you’re doing to your own Pokemon! Your Dratini’s clearly hurt and all you could do is tell your Spearow to ‘finish it’.” Spike said.

“Look just buzz off kid, it’s none of your business and you don’t wanna fight me, I’d beat your butt in a minute or less.”

Spike glared at the trainer, and the trainer glazed back, both furious with one another. Spike clenched his fists in anger, just who was this guy? He looked at the Dratini, who was looking at him and Charmander in awe, particularly Charmander. Spike eyes switched from Dratini to the trainer constantly, then an idea popped into his head.

“Really? Well then let’s see. I challenge you to a battle!” Spike said, the trainer just looked at him with disbelief.

“Fine, I’m going to enjoy this.”

“But before we do, why don’t we place a little bet? If I win, you give me your Dratini.” Spike suggested. The trainer raised an eyebrow,

questioning Spike; but he soon began to think on it before a grin grew on his face, staring Spike dead in the eyes.

“Ok, but if I win, you give me all you money. All of it.”

“Fine, deal. What’s your name anyway?” Spike asked.

“The name’s Garble, now prepare to lose kid.”

The two trainers took their positions, as did their Pokémon. Spearow and Charmander both looking at each other, each ready for their trainer's words. Spike and garble both eyeing each other from across the battlefield.

“I’ll let you go first kid, don’t wanna be so harsh when I beat you.”

“Okay, you sure?” Spike asked.

“Yeah.”

“Alright then, Charmander! Hit ‘em with and ember!”

Charmander took a deep breath and unleashed a fireball, which moved so fast that the Spearow couldn’t dodge it in time. It fell over but quickly got up and ready to attack.

“Spearow, knock him out with peck!”

Spearow took flight once again and charged at fast speeds towards Charmander, who just stood there, ready to move out of the way at the right time. Spike smiled, looking at Garble, which confused the other trainer. Spearow was almost about to hit Charmander but he dodged just in time so Spearow just crashed into the ground; the Spearow flying out of the ground and back near Garble.

“What? How’d you dodge it!?”

“Sparrow's not the first bird Pokémon we’ve faced. A Pidgey tried the exact same thing earlier today and that didn’t work either,” Spike said, ”Charmander, quickly, Smokescreen!”

Smoke flared out of the nostrils of the orange dragon Pokémon, concealing him and Spike behind a wall of smoke. A sweat drop rolled down Gable's forehead, not knowing where Charmander was would cause some problems.

“Spearow! Seek ‘em out with a fury attack!”

Spearow nodded and flew straight into the smokescreen, hoping to hit something he flew around aimlessly, trying to seek out the fire type Pokémon and his trainer. The efforts didn’t help as he couldn’t seem to hit anything in the screen, so the Spearow gave up looking and tried to leave before he was attack, but it was too late.

“Use scratch!”

Spearow found itself being thrown out of the smoke screen due to a scratch attack from behind, landing in front of Garble, who was shocked at the state of his Pokemon. The Dratini behind him also saw the sight of Spearow, and a small glimmer of hope grew in her eyes. The smokescreen soon disappeared revealing Spike and Charmander, their eyes focused on the Spearow, which looked like it was about to faint soon, Garble clenched his teeth and gave a death stare at Spike.

“That’s it! Spearow, fury attack once more!”

The bird Pokémon was happy to oblige and quickly rushed at Charmander, finally landing a hit, if only twice. His beck hit Charmander right in the stomach, the first time knocking him in the air and the second knocking him back down to the ground. Charmander landed with a thud on his back right in front of Spike.

“Charmander! Are you okay?” Spike asked, clearly worried. Charmander stood back on his feet and nodded.

“Alright then, use ember one more time!”

Charmander took in a deep breath and with all his might, blew a final fiery fireball at the Spearow, hitting it on the side, knocking it to the ground in front of Garble. The Spearow cried in pain from the attack before it finally fainted, exhausted from the heat of battle.

Spike had won the battle!

Grable looked down at his Spearow, unimpressed and disappointed. He just grabbed his face in shame and pulled out a Pokeball.

“Spearow, return.”

The bird Pokémon was returned to his Pokeball, which Garble put away into his own bag, and then looked at Spike and Charmander. His gazed could be considered hate filled, but he changed his expression to a smile.

“Not bad kid, not bad. Here’s your prize.”

Spike caught the Pokeball thrown at him, having to jump so it would go over his head, and then looked at Garble.

“What were you trying to do anyway Garble?” Spike asked, the teen just laughed and turned his back to Spike.

“Well since you beat me, I’ll tell ya. You see, I want to become strong, the strongest in the region actually, so I need strong Pokémon, I need fearless Pokémon; If their weak, their useless to me. Just like that Dratini there.” Garble explained as he began to walk away, hoping to find a Pokemon Center or a Pokemart somewhere to revive his comrade.

“But you can’t just treat Pokémon like that, you can’t just expect them to be strong, and you should take good care of your Pokémon.” Spike said to Garble, who just laughed out loud and looked over his shoulder.

“Doesn’t matter, as long as I’m the strongest, I don’t care. See you later Kid.”

Spike clenched his fist as he saw Garble walk off down a dirt path, laughing out loud as he left the lake. He couldn’t understand Garble’s logic, but then again there were a lot of things he couldn’t understand in the world like advanced physics or Pinkie Pie. He soon diverted his attention to his newest Pokémon, the Dratini staring at him and Charmander with awe and happiness. Spike released the Dratini was still hurt and put her Pokeball away, pulling out a potion. He kneeled down near the dragon, and sprayed the pink healing liquid, letting its effects settle in. The bruises and damage on the Dratini soon began to fade until a healthy Dratini stood on its tail again.

“There we go, healthy and happy.” Spike said.

He was about to pet Dratini but she had other plans, as she rushed past Spike and towards Charmander. Charmander tried to jump out of the way but Dratini got to him first and tackled him to the ground. He landed on his back, with Dratini’s body wrapped around his body, her head above his with a smile. She nuzzled his cheek, while Charmander just blushed furiously and tried to get loose. Spike looked at his Pokémon and couldn’t help but laugh at the situation, he laughed as Charmander tried to escape Dratini’s grasp before he eventually decided it was enough.

“Okay Dratini, you can get off Charmander now.”

The small dragon looked sad before she winked at Charmander and eventually slithered off his body. Charmander slowly climbed to his feet and dusted himself off.

“Looks like you have an admirer Charmander.”

Charmander simply stuck his tongue out at Spike, while Dratini just giggled.

“Nice work there.”

A booming voice entered the fray, to which Spike, Charmander and Dratini all turned around to see. Standing a few feet from him was the tallest man he had ever seen, and that’s saying a lot since he’s seen Big Mac. The man wore no shirt, just two strips that crossed over his chest and connected his pants, which exposed his muscled body to the world, dark grey shorts, and heavy, grey hiking boots. His hair was a small Mohawk of black hair and he had a small goatee on his chin. He stood arms cross, his shadow almost reaching Spike himself. A sweat drop rolled down Spike’s forehead, hoping the man wasn’t hostile.

“I was going to take on the twerp myself, but you showed up before I could stop him. I saw you battle him, you’ve got guts, and you can battle, but you still need work.” The man told Spike.

“Who are you?” Spike asked, the man chuckled before he began to pose.

“My name is Iron Will,” The man said as he switched poses, “And I am a Pokémon Gym leader!” He soon started flexing, “The fighting-type gym leader!”

Three massive sweat drops rolled down Spike’s, Charmander’s and Dratini’s head, the display they just witnessed was unlike anything they had seen before, and not in the good way. Iron Will began to do several more poses and flexed countless times to show off before Spike realised something.

“A gym leader? What are you doing out in the Everfree?” he asked.

Iron Will stopped his show and returned to the pose he entered with.

“I too was training my Pokémon, they are young and need some good training if they’re to battle challengers. Similar to you and your Pokémon.” Iron will analysed Spike, staring at him and his two Pokémon before coming to a decision.

“Then there is only one option. We must battle!”

“B-battle?” Spike asked.

“Yes, it will be the perfect exercise! I, Iron Will, shall teach you on how to win a battle, and we shall both see our Pokémon grow stronger! If you defeat me, I shall give you a badge, the courage badge!”

Iron Will then twirled around before showing Spike the badge, which looked like a steel fist. Spike looked down at Dratini and Charmander, he kneeled down to the two to be eye-level.

“What do you guys think? Wanna take him on?”

“Char.”

“Dra-Dratini.”

Spike nodded before he stood up tall and looked at Iron Will.

“Alright, I challenge you to a Pokémon battle!” Spike yelled.

“Good!” Iron Will said, laughing out loud, “Then let us begin!”

The trainer and the gym leader both stared as they stood apart over a large field of grass near the lake. Iron Will made the first move and called out one of his Pokemon.

“Timburr, go!”

Out of the Pokeball jumped a Pokemon, it stood as tall as Charmander, it had grey skin, red veins on its body and was holding a large log. Spike pulled out his Pokedex and scanned the new Pokemon.

“Timburr. Muscular Pokémon. It fights by swinging a piece of lumber around. It is close to evolving when it can handle the lumber without difficulty.”

“Charmander! You’re first!” Spike said as he put the pokedex away, the orange Pokémon jumping onto the field.

“Timburr, use low kick!”

“Charmander, use Smokescreen!”

The Timburr quickly rushed for Charmander, but Charmander was able to act first and created a smokescreen around him, hiding himself from view. Timburr sweeped low and tried to hit Charmander through the smoke but failed, and found himself surrounded by smoke.

“Timburr! Use bide quickly!” Iron Will said.

The Timburr nodded and got ready for any attacks. Just as the smoke was about to clear, Charmander jumped up from behind Timburr.

“Ember!” Spike said.

“Char!”

Charmander let loose a fireball that hit Timburr right in the back, sending him flying onto his stomach, the Pokémon letting out a cry as it landed. But it got up off its feet and turned around, except it looked redder and was breathing more heavily. Spike looked in curiosity, wondering why Timburr wasn’t attacking, and Iron Will was just standing there saying nothing, arms crossed as usual.

“Aren’t you going to attack?” Spike asked.

“Ha, I am attacking. When a Pokémon uses bide, it takes whatever damaged the opposing Pokémon does, doubles it and then attacks said opposing Pokemon.” Iron Will said.

Spike immediately started to sweat. He already did a lot of damage from the ember attack, if he couldn’t knock Timburr out, Charmander would be knocked out. He then remembered the Pokedex data and what moves Charmander could do, and he then released what move to use.

“Charmander! Growl quick!”

Charmander did so as the smoke finally cleared and let out a huge growl towards Timburr, who shivered slightly but remained still and continued to gather energy. Iron Will saw what Spike was doing and smiled.

“Ah, very clever. I see what you are doing, clever but it won’t save you.” Iron Will stated.

“He’s still charging, use growl again!” Spike said to Charmander.

Charmander growled on more time, and prepared for the incoming attack. Timburr finally stopped charging and ran with lighting speed at Charmander, log in his hands ready. He ran up to Charmander before smashing him with his long, hitting him right in his side. Timburr ran back to Iron Will, panting from doing such an attack and already damaged as Charmander grabbed his stomach in pain.

“Are you alright Charmander!?” Spike yelled to his comrade.

Charmander grunted before standing back up, taking deep breathes from the hit he just endured. Spike rubbed some sweat off his brow before filling himself with determination.

“Charmander, finish it with ember!”

Charmander used what energy was left to summon up a fireball and launched it, it hit Timburr right in his chest, making the fighting Pokémon faint. Iron Will called Timburr back into his Pokeball and threw his next Pokémon onto the field. Spike also pulled out a Pokeball and called Charmander back.

“You rest buddy, you deserve it.” He said before he pulled his pokedex out for the next Pokemon.

“Mienfoo! Your turn!”

Out of Iron Will’s Pokeball was a small Pokémon with yellow and red fur. Spike’s pokedex quickly scanned the Pokémon and beeped with the results.

“Mienfoo. Martial Arts Pokémon. It takes pride in the speed at which it can use moves. What it loses in power, it makes up for in quantity.”

“Well then, Dratini, I hope you’re ready for this.” Spike said as he sent Dratini out, the small dragon ready to battle.

“Actually what moves do you know?” Spike asked to himself as he pulled out his pokedex one more time, he selected his Pokémon and pressed Dratini. A page full of details on Dratini showed up, like her health, gender and her known moves. He looked over the moves as a strategy formed in his mind.

“Are you going to go!?” Iron Will asked, he and his Mienfoo getting impatient. Spike nodded and put the pokedex away.

“Dratini use Wrap.”

Dratini rushed forward across the grass, jumped in the air and then wrapped her tiny body around the Mienfoo. It’s arms being pressed to the sides of its body as Dratini squeezed the Pokémon, causing some pain.

“Well, you’ve just made this battle a lot easier. Mienfoo, use meditate.” Iron Will said, a smug grin on his face as he his Pokémon meditated, its attack increasing with the move.

“Really? Dratini, use Thunder Wave.”

Iron Will’s smug grin disappeared as he released what Spike was attempting to do. Dratini Created an electric wave around her, causing the Pokémon that she wrapped to become paralysed; the Mienfoo frozen in place as Dratini slithered back to Spike. Iron Will began to sweat as he fear he was about to lose this battle.

“Mienfoo, try to use detect!” He yelled.

“Use Twister.” Spike said.

Mienfoo struggled to move out, but the electric shock held him in place as Dratini summoned a twister out of thin air. The attack moved towards the paralysed Mienfoo and carried him up high above the twister, unable to move as he is thrown around in the sky. The twister soon faded and Mienfoo fell to the earth, crashing into the ground with lighting velocity. Mienfoo wasn’t paralysed anymore, but it failed to get up and fainted from the impact.

Iron Will called back Mienfoo into its Pokeball, while Spike walked up to Dratini and rubbed its head, who began to nuzzle Spike’s hand.

“Great work Dratini.” Spike said.

“Dratini Dratini”.

“Come on, you can rest in your pokeball if you like.” Spike said as he took out Dratini’s Pokeball. Dratini nodded and soon returned to her Pokeball which Spike put away in his bag.

Iron Will looked at the sight, and a smile began to grow on his face. He started to laugh out loud, which caught Spikes attention.

“Well done! You’ve trained your Pokemon well! As promised, here is your courage badge!”

Iron Will did his poses once more, flexing and stretching, causing a sweat drop to grow on Spike’s head, before he produced the badge. Spike walked up to Iron Will and grabbed the badge from Iron Will’s open palm, feeling slightly awkward as Iron Will still stood in his pose.

“Thanks for that…” Spike said, attaching the badge to the inside of his jacket.

“So what are you trying to achieve on your journey young trainer?” Iron Will asked.

“Achieve?” Spike asked back.

“Yes, do you plan to take on the Elite four? Perhaps collect Pokémon? Or do you just wish to explore the world?” Iron Will explained.

Spike released he actually didn't plan that far ahead for this journey. He wanted to take on the gyms, get a few badges, and settle a bet or two with Rainbow, which was the original goal. But now that he thought about it, what exactly did he want to do? Collect? Explore? Or train? He wasn’t really interested in collecting all the Pokémon, that was more Twilight’s thing, getting all the data on his Pokedex, although he already did have a good starting amount recorded. He began to think maybe he should take on the Elite Four, it couldn’t hurt to try, plus he could still explore the region while battling. He did appear to be naturally skilled in battling, beating both Garble and Iron Will.

“Well, I was just planning on taking on the gyms, maybe explore the region a bit. But now that you mention it, I might take on the Elite Four.” Spike said to Iron Will.

“Very good! I see bright things for you with your skills. I take it you are from Ponyville, so you will need to go around Mt. Green, then exit this forest and onto Route 5 to Appaloosa. There is a gym there that would best for you. Go back to Ponyville when you have three badges, then you will be ready to take on Rainbow Dash.” Iron Will told Spike.

“You know Rainbow Dash?” Spike asked.

“Yes, all the gym leaders meet together every two months to discuss rules and any issues in the region. Although I have had very little time to talk with her, always trying to talk to Spitfire; but she is strong, I will say that.” Iron Will said.

“Okay, thanks for your help sir.” Spike said.

“Your welcome! What is your name by the way? I forgot to ask.”

“Spike, my name’s Spike.”

Spike tipped his hat to Iron Will before leaving the lake, walking on a route that lead up the mountain, unaware that the craziness of his journey had just begun.