13.Ash's Rikoto Story

Chapter 54 Sailport Town

As the group makes their way toward Rassic City, they spot Rick standing in front of the Pokémon Center.

"You again?" Ash groans, frustration evident in his voice. He can hardly believe he's running into Rick again, especially so soon after their last encounter in Coralite Town.

Rick smirks, clearly relishing the opportunity to antagonize Ash. "Ah, it's you, wimp. Long time no see... So, you're heading to Rassic City? I told you it's my hometown. It's not a place for a weakling like you."

Ash meets Rick's gaze with a cold stare. "You know what? The only weakling I see here is you," he retorts. "After all, do you even keep track of how many times I've beaten you?"

Rick's smirk falters, and he grits his teeth, his temper flaring as Ash's words hit home. "Fine," he snaps. "I'm heading there too, and I'm going to battle Rex! He's one of the Elite Four! If I can beat him, I'll be one of the best trainers in Rikoto. But first, how about we battle? I want to test out my new Pokémon."

Without waiting for a reply, Rick sends out his Frogoo. Ash counters with his Flearoe, swiftly defeating Frogoo. One by one, Rick's other five Pokémon fall to Ash's team—Pikachu, Orcail, Phoxiven, Aeroma, and Greninja each taking down an opponent with ease.

"Drat!" Rick mutters through clenched teeth as he watches his team lose yet again. "I guess these new Pokémon need more training..." His frustration turns to defiance as he adds, "I'll find stronger Pokémon in Ancient Pass. You have to go through there to reach Rassic City. But honestly, you shouldn't bother—Rassic City's too much for a weakling like you. Haha."

Pikachu, fed up with Rick's constant insults toward Ash, doesn't hesitate. With a sudden burst of electricity, he unleashes a Thunderbolt, shocking the smug trainer. Rick yelps in pain as he's knocked to the ground.

Ash sighs, a mix of exasperation and amusement crossing his face. He hadn't expected Pikachu to attack a trainer, but seeing Rick sprawled out on the ground is undeniably satisfying. With a mocking tone, Ash comments, "How strange... A weak Pikachu shouldn't have made you fall like that. Don't you think?"

"You..." Rick seethes as he struggles back to his feet, his fury boiling over. Without another word, he turns and storms off, his pride bruised.

Delia, having watched the exchange, steps forward. "Ash, that wasn't very nice," she gently scolds. "Even if the trainer keeps insulting you, you shouldn't have done that."

"I know, Mother," Ash replies, nodding. He turns to Pikachu, his expression softening. "Pikachu, I appreciate you standing up for me, but attacking others like that isn't right. Please, don't do it again."

Pikachu lowers his head in shame, clearly regretting his impulsive action. Just then, Rodney's voice cuts through the air as he approaches the group. "That was... unexpected," he remarks, a mix of surprise and amusement in his tone. "I didn't think you'd get so mad that you'd zap him like that. But honestly, I think he had it coming."

Ash and Alice greet Rodney warmly, shaking hands and sharing a quick hug. With a smile, Alice asks, "Rodney! Good to see you again. What brings you here?"

Rodney returns the smile before explaining, "Professor Pinewood called and asked me to find you. He said he's waiting for us at the Pokémon Center here in Sailport Town. Keira will be there too."

Delia, seeming to have an idea of what this might be about, nods thoughtfully. "I see... So it's time, huh?"

"Time for what?" Ash asks, his curiosity piqued. He turns to his mother, a hint of suspicion in his voice. "Mom? Are you hiding something from me again?"

Delia smiles, but before she can respond, Red chimes in, "I know you're curious, Ash. But you'll just have to wait and see."

Ash can only groan in frustration, realizing his father is siding with his mother in keeping whatever secret they're hiding.