Pokemon - The Biggest Wish

Chapter 32 - Steel Sign-Up

“Mind that gap, you'll hurt yourself!”

“Yeah, yea-AGH!”

“Toby!”

“Mum... Thanks!”

“Seriously, I told you to watch it.”

“Sorry...”

“Now come on, I need to show you how to catch a Pokemon.”

“You get the PokeBall, and throw it! Right?”

“No, you have to weaken it first. Look, there's a Treecko! Go Growlithe!”

“Whoa!”

“Use Ember!”

“Awesome!”

“Now Toby, throw the PokeBall!”

“Right, go PokeBall!”

“Good one! You can keep that Treecko!”

“I can? Thanks Mum!”

“M-Mum!?” I exclaimed, sitting up straight.

“Toby...?” It was Nelly. I took a deep breath and sighed. It was still dark, presumably early morning. “Are you ok?” She asked.

“Its ok... I-I'm fine.” I replied. Nelly lay her hand on my shoulder.

“You don't look ok...”

“Don't worry about me. Let's just get back to sleep.” I muttered, leaning backwards and placing my back against the wall once more. Nelly took her hand away slowly, a worried look in her eyes. She sighed and leant backwards as well. “Ok... Sleep well...”

Morning came quickly, and Holly was the first to awake. In turn, she woke up everybody. “WOOHOO!” She screamed at the top of her voice. Everybody's eyes shot open, moaning at the noise. “One more badge! Come on! Get up, get up!” Holly cried, unable to contain herself. “Come on! Sleepy heads!” She laughed, grabbing my wrist and wrenching me to my feet.

“Gah! W-whoa! I'm up!” I groaned. Everyone else climbed to their feet, yawning and stretching. Nobody seemed too pleased with the sudden wake up announcement, and their faces showed. “Do you ever sleep?” Jake moaned. Ethan stepped forward, seemingly pleased with Holly's attitude.

“She's right you know.” He pointed out. “We should get going straight away. The last Gym is in Viridian City.” He finished, answering Bonnie's question before it passed her lips.

“Let's go then!” Holly said, calling out Amber. Ethan brought out Charizard and we took our usual places.

The air was cool and the sea below housed thousands of Pokemon. Just a few clouds were in the sky, but nothing major. I kept thinking back to my dream. I hadn't had one like that since way back in Vermillion City. It didn't matter though, it was only natural that I'd be thinking of her. But even still... Nelly was clearly worried about me too. She kept looking over her shoulder for the duration of the flight. I simply smiled bleakly, but I wish I could explain it to her. Viridian City soon came into view, and we saw the others walk into the Gym as we landed. The City was placed rather conveniently, as the entrance to the beginning of Victory Road was just around the corner. One final step...

The air in the Gym was tense, and I could tell that this was going to be a tough challenge. The Gym Leader spoke with a young Irish accent, happy and hearty. “Ah! Toby and Holly!” He smiled. “I've been looking forward to our battle! The name's Dylan, by the way.” He greeted, eyes flaring with passion. Dylan seemed overjoyed, outstretching his hand towards us. Holly sprang forward and shook it vigorously. “Nice to meet you!” She grinned. “Shall we get started? Do you take double battles?” Holly asked. Dylan retracted his hand, obviously pleased with Holly's attitude.