Chapter 432: Chapter 20: Quagsire
After successfully capturing Chikorita, Ash decided to take a measured approach. Instead of rushing her into training, he focused on helping her adjust to her new environment while developing a training plan tailored to her abilities and personality.
As the day progressed, Ash spent time bonding with Chikorita and learning about her strengths.
To his delight, he discovered she already knew an impressive set of moves: Synthesis, Poison Powder, Reflect, and the basic attacks Tackle, Razor Leaf, and Vine Whip.
The inclusion of Vine Whip particularly intrigued him—it was a move Chikorita had inherited genetically, a testament to her unique lineage.
Ash could feel the connection between them growing stronger with each passing moment.
"Enjoy today, because tomorrow we'll start your training," Ash said during dinner, smiling down at Chikorita as she nestled comfortably in his arms. "If you want to become a powerful Pokémon, we need to work hard together."
Chikorita's wide, expressive eyes gleamed as she rubbed her head against Ash, clearly enamored with him.
"Chiko…," she murmured softly, almost pleading for more affection.
Misty, noticing the exchange, crossed her arms with a huff. "Looks like someone's already a bit spoiled," she muttered under her breath.
Ash chuckled. "Don't worry, Chikorita. You'll get plenty of attention, but we'll balance it with training. Trust me, you'll be stronger than ever."
Chikorita nodded earnestly, her earlier frustrations replaced by a determination to impress Ash.
The following morning, after a quick workout with the team, Ash, Misty, and Brock resumed their journey. By midday, they stumbled upon a peaceful riverbank and decided to set up camp early.
As Brock prepared lunch, Ash and Misty ventured to the river to try their luck at fishing.
Chikorita, who was lying nearby, saw that they were doing something interesting and got close to Ash to see what it was.
"Want to help us fish, Chikorita?" Ash asked, noticing her curiosity.
"Chiko!" she chirped happily, curling into his arms.As Ash scooped her up and rubbed his face on her belly.
"Looks like she just wants to hang out with you," Misty remarked, her tone tinged with mild annoyance.
Ash laughed. "Can't blame her for wanting to relax after yesterday."
After a hearty lunch, Misty began catching fish with ease, while Ash struggled to get a bite. Just as he was about to give up, his rod jerked violently.
"I've got something!" Ash exclaimed, carefully setting Chikorita down to focus on reeling in his catch.
The water churned as a large shadow emerged, and Ash's excitement grew. "This is going to be a big one!"
To his surprise, instead of a fish, a blue, round-headed Pokémon surfaced, holding onto the line with its three-fingered hand.
"Wait… you're not a fish; you're a Pokémon!" Ash exclaimed, staring at the creature in confusion.
"It's a Quagsire!" Misty said excitedly. "Water and Ground-type. They're known for being gentle but also incredibly strong in battle!"
Ash studied the Pokémon as it stared back at him with its vacant, yet oddly curious, eyes.
Type: Water/Ground
Category: Water Fish Pokémon
Abilities: Damp or Water Absorb
Hidden Ability: Unaware
Level: Bronze
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Before Ash could make a move, Chikorita stepped forward, positioning herself protectively in front of him. Her leaves rustled as she glared at the Quagsire, her competitive spirit igniting.
"Are you ready for a battle, Chikorita?" Ash asked, impressed by her sudden show of bravery.
"Chiko!" she cried, her determination blazing as she prepared to face the larger Pokémon.
"Alright! Let's do this. Use Razor Leaf!"
Chikorita leaped into action, launching a flurry of sharp leaves toward Quagsire. But the Water Fish Pokémon dived beneath the surface, evading the attack with ease.
"It's got the advantage in the water," Ash observed, quickly devising a new plan. "Use Vine Whip to pull it out!"
Chikorita responded immediately, her vines shooting into the river and wrapping around Quagsire.
With a mighty tug, she hauled the surprised Pokémon out of the water, slamming it onto the riverbank.
"Nice work!" Ash cheered, but the battle was far from over.
Quagsire shook itself off and stood, its normally lazy demeanor replaced with a fierce determination. Its eyes narrowed as it sized up Chikorita, ready to retaliate.
"Get ready, Chikorita!" Ash called, his voice filled with encouragement.
Chikorita lowered her head, preparing for Quagsire's counterattack. The tension in the air was palpable as the two Pokémon faced off, each determined to prove their strength.
"Let's show them what you've got!" Ash urged, pride swelling in his chest as he watched his new partner hold her ground.
The battle was just beginning, and Ash could feel the excitement of another thrilling adventure unfolding.
With every step forward, his bond with Chikorita—and his team—would only grow stronger.
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