1.Ash's Story (Part 2: Johto)

Chapter 31: Root Badge

The Pokéathlon Dome rose over the open land like a whole stadium had decided to become a town.

Its silver roof curved wide under the Johto sky, catching the sunlight until Pikachu lifted one paw over his eyes. The paths were busy with Trainers, Pokémon, vendors, families, and people wearing sports uniforms in every color.

Reisa slowed beside me, her eyes wide as she hugged Marill closer against her chest. "Wow, this place is so big."

"It really is," I said, looking up at the huge entrance. "This place is actually cool."

East was already studying the lines of people and the different gates. "Several entrances. Main spectators forward. Competitors probably left."

Ethan bounced on his heels. "If this is a sports place for Pokémon, Exbo is going to love it."

Pikachu's ears twitched sharply before he stepped closer to my shoulder. His meaning came through warm and alert: "Big place. Many feet. Stay close."

"I know, buddy," I murmured, letting my hand rest near him. "We'll stay together."

Lillie smiled softly, because she understood the same meaning I did. "It is crowded, but everyone seems excited instead of frightened."

Before I could answer, a loud laugh burst from the crowd.

"Muhaha!" a man in a sharp sports coat shouted as he marched toward us with bright, excited eyes. He stopped in front of me so suddenly that Pikachu leaned back, cheeks sparking from surprise.

The man pointed at me, then at Pikachu. "I feel it! The twinkle in your eyes! The twinkle of friendship! You're quite something, bud!"

"Uh, thanks," I said, blinking at him.

He leaned closer, studying Pikachu with even more excitement. "Your Pikachu is quite a Pokémon! It is ready to participate in the Pokéathlon! Most of all, your solidarity with and trust in Pokémon make me believe in infinite potential!"

Pikachu tilted his head, unsure whether he had been praised or challenged.

Ethan whispered, "He talks like a Contest judge and a Gym announcer got mixed together."

Reisa covered a giggle with one hand. Kris tried to look polite, but her mouth twitched. East simply looked at the man's route through the crowd, as if deciding whether this counted as safe guidance or suspicious speed.

The man threw one arm toward the entrance. "All right! Follow me!"

Lillie stepped closer as we followed him. "Ash, do you know him?"

"No," I admitted. "But he seems friendly."

"He seems loud," East said.

He led us toward the front doors, where banners showed Pokémon leaping, rolling, throwing snowballs, smashing blocks, and racing across bright tracks.

He spread both arms wide in front of the entrance. "What do you think? This is the Pokéathlon Dome!"

Lillie looked from one banner to another. "So what is this Pokéathlon?"

"The Pokéathlon is a sports festival for Trainers and Pokémon!" the man declared. "Inside the Dome are various challenges awaiting Trainers and Pokémon to test their friendship, timing, strength, stamina, and skill. Why don't you try it?"

"That sounds fun," Kris said, glancing at Megaree. "I guess we can become Pokéathletes as well."

Megaree straightened proudly at her side, and Bonee tapped his bone against the ground like he approved of testing himself.