A New Journey - Ash Ketchum {2}

Chapter 80 - Mewtwo Returns

Note: I changed it in the middle because Team Rocket of course kidnapping Emma. I hope it turned out okay.

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As the golden sun began its descent in the late afternoon sky, Emma, Ash, Brock, Molly, and Misty found themselves perched on a cliff overlooking the majestic Purity Canyon. The breathtaking view of Mount Quena stretched before them, its snow-capped peak piercing the clouds above.

Emma's female Pikachu sat atop her shoulder, her ears twitching with curiosity as she surveyed the new surroundings. Togepi nestled comfortably in Emma's arms, cooing softly and waving its tiny arms with excitement. Ash's male Pikachu mirrored his counterpart's position on his shoulder, "Pika."

The group stood in awe of the natural beauty that surrounded them. The canyon walls were a patchwork of earthy reds, oranges, browns, and vibrant greens, with the occasional waterfall cascading down the rocky cliffs, creating a soothing melody that accompanied their thoughts.

"It looks so big!" Molly gasped, her eyes wide as she leaned forward, almost slipping from the rocky edge.

"Careful, Molly!" Ash called out, reaching out to steady her with a gentle hand. "You don't want to fall in."

Brock looked at the guidebook. "Purity Canyon, the Johto region's greatest natural wonder."

"Yeah, no wonder," Ash said as he grinned, taking in the view with renewed enthusiasm.

"But the best part," Emma chimed in, her voice laced with excitement, "Is that we might even see some wild Pokémon! This place is known for its rare sightings." She glanced at Ash, their eyes meeting for a brief moment that sent a flicker of warmth through them both.

"But how we get across?" Misty asked, her brow furrowing as she scanned the steep drop-off. "There's no bridge, and it looks really dangerous down there."

Brock looked at the guidebook again. "The book says it's impossible on foot. The only way to get across is by bus or a car, but the bus only makes the trip once a month."

"When does it leave?" Misty asked, a hint of disappointment creeping into her voice.

Brock flipped a few pages, his brow furrowed with concentration. "Uh, according to this," he said, tracing a finger down the page, "it should have left just lunchtime today. Which was three hours ago."

A collective disappointed sigh emerged from the group. Emma bit her lip, thinking quickly. "What if we try to find a way down to the river? We always find a way, right? We could follow it and see where it leads. There might be a shallow spot we can cross."

"Yeah, that sounds like a plan!" Ash said, his enthusiasm rekindled. He looked at Emma, the corners of his mouth turning up in a hopeful smile. "Besides, we can't let a little canyon get in our way to my next Gym Battle!"

"Exactly!" Emma replied, her eyes sparkling with the thrill of adventure. "Let's do it!"

As the group started to descend the steep path leading down to the canyon floor, dark clouds began to gather overhead. The wind picked up, rustling through the trees and carrying with it the scent of impending rain.

"Guys, I think we should hurry," Brock called out, glancing worriedly at the sky. "It looks like a storm's coming."

They quickened their pace, carefully navigating the rocky terrain. Molly clung to Ash's hand, her small legs working hard to keep up with the older kids.

Suddenly, a loud crack of thunder echoed through the canyon, causing them all to jump. Mere seconds later, the sky opened up, and rain began to pour down in heavy sheets.