The Pantheon

Game Corner

Ashley was riding high on her recent victories, practically buzzing with confidence as she strolled through the bustling streets of Celadon City. Two badges, one ribbon, and a team that was sharper and stronger than ever. She felt like she could take on the world—or at least Erika in the gym. But then, as she passed a colorful poster advertising the upcoming Celadon City Contest, she stopped dead in her tracks.

A grin spread across her face. "Another contest? Oh, I'm in."

Venus, perched on her shoulder, chirped in excitement, while Vulcan trotted up beside her, his tail wagging like crazy. He glanced up at her with a look that practically screamed, You're seriously doing this again?

Ashley crouched down, holding the poster at Vulcan's eye level. "Don't look at me like that. You're gonna love it," she said with a sly grin. "Because this time, you're up."

Vulcan barked, clearly taken aback, before puffing out his chest. Venus gave a teasing chirp, flicking her tail as she hopped down to stand beside Vulcan, looking smug as usual.

"Easy there, princess. You're sitting this one out," Ashley said, ruffling Venus's fur. The Eevee gave a mock pout but didn't argue, clearly satisfied with her previous win.

Ashley folded the poster and slipped it into her bag, her mind already racing with plans. "Okay, so this contest has different rules. One Pokémon for the appeal round and another for the battle round." She stood, her hands on her hips as she glanced at Vulcan and Mars, who had just wandered over from his spot in the shade. "I'm thinking we keep it classic. Fire on fire. Vulcan, you've got the appeal round. Mars, you're gonna handle the battles."

Mars tilted his head, his arms crossed in a way that said you expect me to do what now?

"Don't give me that look," Ashley said, pointing at him. "You've got the power and the moves. Plus, you love a good fight. Don't even pretend you don't."

Mars snorted; he did not look convinced but didn't argue.

Ashley knelt, scratching Vulcan behind the ears. "And you, mister, are going to charm the socks off everyone in that appeal round. You've got the style, you've got the speed, and you've definitely got the cute factor."

Vulcan barked in agreement, his tail wagging so hard it was practically a blur.

Ashley stood, brushing the dust off her knees. "Alright, team, we've got work to do. First stop: the Pokémon Center to sign up."

At the Pokémon Center, Nurse Joy greeted her with a warm smile as Ashley slid her Trainer ID across the counter. "Back so soon?"

Ashley grinned. "You know it. I'm here to sign up for the contest."

Nurse Joy's eyes lit up. "Ah, the Celadon Contest. It's going to be a big one this time. Have you decided which Pokémon you'll use?"

"Yup," Ashley said confidently. "Vulcan for the appeal round and Mars for the battle round."

"Great choices," Nurse Joy said, typing something into her computer. "Both Fire-types, right? That'll definitely stand out."

"That's the plan," Ashley said with a wink, leaning on the counter. "We're bringing the heat—literally."

After finishing the registration, Ashley made her way to the training grounds behind the Center, her Pokémon trotting close behind.

"Alright, let's start with you, Vulcan," Ashley said, tossing a ball for him to chase. He caught it mid-air, returning with a bounce in his step.

Ashley paced back and forth on the practice field just outside the Pokémon Center, her sneakers crunching against the gravel as she waved her hands animatedly. Her Growlithe, Vulcan, sat a few feet away, his orange tail swishing eagerly in the cool breeze.