Ash Ketchum: Journeys

Chapter 12

Ash and Serena stepped out of the Oreburgh Gym, waving to Roark, who had just shown them around his fossil displays and training areas. They'd planned on just visiting, but Roark had other ideas.

"Ash!" Roark called, jogging up to him. "How about a quick battle? Gym Leaders are getting invited to the World Coronation Series, and I want to test my skills. Plus, it'd be a great warm-up for you!"

Ash's eyes sparkled with excitement. "You bet! I've been itching for a battle. Let's make it a one-on-one!"

They moved to the battlefield outside the gym, with Serena taking her spot at the sidelines, eager to cheer Ash on. Roark wasted no time calling out his trusted partner. "Alright, Rampardos, let's go!"

The towering Rock-type roared, ready to face any challenge. Ash reached for a Poké Ball, confident in his choice. "Torterra, I choose you!"

Torterra appeared with a powerful stomp, its lush shell of foliage a stark contrast to the rugged battlefield. Ash grinned, knowing the bond he shared with Torterra would make this a fierce match.

Roark started the battle with intensity. "Rampardos, use Head Smash!"

Rampardos charged with blinding speed, its head lowered and glowing with energy. Ash responded swiftly. "Torterra, brace yourself and use Earthquake!"

Torterra reared up, then slammed its front legs into the ground, sending shockwaves that shook the entire battlefield. The ground split under Rampardos, causing it to stumble just before its Head Smash connected.

But Roark wasn't done. "Rampardos, get up and use Zen Headbutt!"

Rampardos regained its footing and launched itself at Torterra, head glowing with a psychic aura. Ash watched carefully, then made his call. "Torterra, use Frenzy Plant!"

Vines erupted from the ground around Torterra, twisting and lashing out at Rampardos. The powerful vines collided with Rampardos mid-attack, stopping it in its tracks. The impact sent Rampardos crashing to the ground, unable to continue.

The referee declared Ash the winner, and Serena cheered, thrilled by the display of power from Torterra. Ash jogged over to Torterra, giving his partner a proud pat.

Roark approached with a smile, recalling his Rampardos. "Thanks, Ash. That was an amazing battle! You've really grown since our first match. Your Torterra's as strong as ever."

"Thanks, Roark! You and Rampardos put up a great fight," Ash replied, grateful for the challenge.

Roark reached into his bag and handed Ash a compact box. "As a token of appreciation, take this special Mining Kit. It's useful for finding hidden treasures underground. Maybe you and Serena can find something interesting while you're here in Sinnoh!"

Ash accepted the Mining Kit with a grin, while Serena looked intrigued. "Thank you, Roark! We'll put it to good use."

After stepping outside the Oreburgh Gym, Ash and Serena examined the Mining Kit Roark had gifted them. Serena tilted her head, curious. "I wonder what this Mining Kit actually does? It looks like more than just a regular digging tool."

Ash shrugged, flipping open the case. Instantly, a shimmering glow appeared beneath their feet, forming into a dark hole with a ladder leading downward. Ash and Serena exchanged startled glances.

"Uh... did this kit just... open a hole?" Serena asked, wide-eyed.

Ash chuckled nervously. "Well, only one way to find out what's down there!" Without hesitation, he began descending the ladder, with Serena following close behind.

As they reached the bottom, their surroundings came into view—an expansive underground cavern, unlike anything they'd seen before. It was breathtaking. Long tunnels stretched out in every direction, and glimmering crystals adorned the cave walls, casting a soft light over the pathways. They stood in awe, realizing they were in the heart of the Grand Underground.