13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 51 Baawool and the Ranch

As the group leaves the Lighthouse, Beacon gives Gina a warm goodbye hug before they set off toward Route 11. Gina smiles as she walks alongside the others, her excitement evident. "This route is actually famous for the Haybarrel Ranch," she says, her voice filled with enthusiasm.

"Haybarrel Ranch?" Ash repeats, curiosity piqued. "What kind of place is that?"

Red glances at Ash, a knowing smile on his face. "Why don't we head there so you can see for yourself?" he suggests.

Ash nods eagerly, and they continue down the path, the landscape around them gradually changing. As they approach the entrance to the route, a familiar figure comes into view—Keira, strolling toward them with a bright smile on her face.

"Hey, guys! Isn't this place beautiful? That lighthouse is just incredible," Keira exclaims, her eyes still glowing with admiration.

Alice nods in agreement. "You're right, it really is."

Keira's gaze shifts to the two new faces in the group, her expression curious. "Who are these two? It seems like you're always switching up your travel companions."

After Alice introduces Gina and Red, Keira's eyes widen in surprise. "Wow, the King has returned? That's huge news!" She laughs lightly. "But I'm having a great time on this journey. I've met so many different kinds of people and Pokémon. It's been a lot of fun."

Ash grins. "I agree, it's definitely been fun."

Keira's eyes sparkle with excitement as she continues, "Not far from here, there's a place called Lake Bliss. I've heard it's full of beautiful flowers and some really cute Pokémon. I've even heard rumors about some rare ones. I'm planning to check it out and see what I can find."

"Rare ones?" Ash's interest is immediately piqued. "That sounds interesting."

Keira's grin widens, and she reaches for a Pokéball. "But before that, how about a Pokémon battle?" she suggests. With a flick of her wrist, she sends out her Roobeop. "Let's see how much we've both grown."

Ash confidently sends out his Kapplash, ready to take on Keira's challenge. The battle begins with Kapplash swiftly dodging Roobeop's Power-Up Punch. Seizing the opportunity, Kapplash strikes with a powerful move, securing the first win as Roobeop misses its attack.

Next, Keira sends out Pooldog, but Ash is quick to respond with Pikachu. Pikachu's speed and agility prove too much for Pooldog, and with a series of well-timed Quick Attacks, Pikachu scores another victory.

Keira isn't deterred and calls upon Nimblow. Ash counters by sending out Eclipser. Nimblow tries to gain an advantage with its aerial maneuvers, but Eclipser cleverly uses Rock Tomb, slowing Nimblow down. With its speed reduced, Nimblow falls prey to Eclipser's powerful Stone Edge, resulting in another win for Ash.

Undeterred, Keira sends out Pixilily as her fourth Pokémon. Ash chooses Frogoo for this round. Pixilily's attempts to overwhelm Frogoo with its fairy-like charms are quickly countered by Frogoo's precise Sludge Bomb, which secures another win for Ash.

Finally, Keira calls forth her last Pokémon, Mountree. Ash meets the challenge with Purryo. The intense battle culminates with Purryo's Flamethrower scorching Mountree, followed by a strategic use of Quicksand to trap it. Mountree is unable to escape, leading to Ash's final victory in the match.

"You did so well," Keira says as she recalls her Mountree, a smile on her face despite the loss. "But I think I did well, too! You always need to have confidence in yourself and learn from your losses!"

"You're right," Ash agrees, appreciating her positive outlook.

Keira then pulls out a shiny object, handing it to Ash. "Well, I have a useful gift for you as well," she says, revealing an Amulet Coin.