Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 6

By the next day, five of Louise’s Pokemon have been evolved: Honda into Revavroom, Emmet (her Buizel) into Floatzel, Rockette into Graveler, Evinrude into Yanmega, Puja into Hypno, and Maggie into Magneton. Louise and Ping decided to stay at a hotel in Celadon City until she was ready to fight Gong Shen. Anyway, the two had finished breakfast, and Ping decided to ask Lousie a question.

“Do you know what trades are?” He asked.

“Of course I do!” She replied. “It’s when two Trainers exchange Pokemon in order to either evolve them or get Pokemon unavailable in that Region.”

“Well, do you know about GTS?” He asked.

“Sorry, but Dynaxing doesn’t work on humans.” Answered Louise. “They've tried, and it’s not pretty.”

“Not that!” Replied Ping. “I’m talking about a Global Trade Station. It’s where you can meet Trainers from all over the world to trade Pokemon instead of going to your local Pokemon Center.”

“I believe there’s one in Goldenrod City,” Said Louise. “Where the Game Corner used to be. It was shut down when players got upset over Voltorb Flip.”

“Looks like we’ll be going to Goldenrod, then.” Declared Ping. “We might also buy some Stones from Celadon later today.” Louise got out Honda and rode him to Saffron City, with Ping following in pursuit.

“Why didn’t I bring Dragonite?” He asked himself.

—---------------------------------------------

An hour has passed, and Louise and Ping have arrived in Goldenrod City. Right where the Goldenrod Game Corner used to be, there was a tall building with all sorts of gadgets inside. When the two entered the building, they were greeted by a Nurse Joy lookalike.

“Welcome to the Global Trade Center!” She said. “Here, you can trade with any Trainer from all over the world. Would you like to trade with another Trainer from another Region?”

“Yes, actually.” Said Louise. “My Graveler needs to evolve into Golem, but I need someone to trade with.”

“Are you looking for any Pokemon in particular?” Asked the NJ lookalike.

“Not really.” Answered Louise. “Any species will do. As long as it’s not Seadra, Kadrabra, Haunter, or Onix.”

“Very well.” Said the NJ lookalike. “Head to the computer to the right of the building. We will call another Trainer from around the world and hook you up with him or her in a moment.” Louise and Ping walked over to the computer, sat in front of it, and waited for a Trainer to show up on screen. Soon, an Alolan girl around Louise’s age popped up on screen.

“Hi, there!” She said. “My name is Mahina. A little Spearow told me that you need to evolve your Graveler into Golem. That’s convenient since I need to evolve Slowpoke into Slowking! Do you suppose you could help me?”

“Sure!” Replied Louise, and a cylinder with a hole big enough to place a Poke Ball in popped out of the keyboard.

“Please take good care of Rockette, Mahina.” Said Louise. “She’s my only Rock-Type Pokemon I have. As well as my only Ground-Type, for that matter.”

“As long as you take good care of Slowqueen!” Replied Mahina. The two girls then placed their Poke Balls in the cylinder, and after a few minutes, a Net Ball popped out of Louise’s cylinder. She opened the Poke Ball, and Slowpoke came out holding a King’s Rock.

“This must be Slowqueen.” Said Louise, and the Dopey Pokemon started evolving. Slowqueen got taller, grew a fancy frill, and the King’s Rock turned into a sentient shell that sat on her head. Slowqueen had evolved into Slowking.

“Wow, did you see that?” Said Mahina. “Graveler evolved into Golem! Is it okay if I use her in battle for a few hours?”

“Okay.” Said Louise. “But I won’t have a Rock or Ground-Type Pokemon with me.” This gave Ping an idea.

“I have an idea.” Said the Professor. “How about we go to Mt. Mortar to catch a Carbink?”

“But it isn’t Saturday.” Said Louise.

“Don’t worry!” Assured Ping. “I have my ways. Next stop, Mt., Mortar!”

Author's Notes: Emmet (Louise's Floatzel) is named after the critically acclaimed Muppet special Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas.

The Net Ball is best used to catch Water and Bug-Type Pokemon.

Starting with the DS era of Pokemon games, players can trade with other players from all over the world thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. There would be locations in the games called Global Trade Stations, or Global Terminals, that allowed this function.

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 5

Later that day, Louise and Ping arrived at Saffron City. Louise’s Pokemon by this point included Rockette, Oliver, Evinrude (her Yanma), Puja, Maggie, and Bella (her Bellsprout), all of which were between Levels 18-21.

“Let’s start by evolving Geodude into Graveler.”  Said Ping. “Golem is a powerhouse of a Pokemon, so you’re very lucky to have caught a Geodude. Ground beats Fire, Electric, Poison, Rock, and Steel, while Rock beats Bug, Fire and Flying.”

“But what about my other Pokemon?” Asked Louise.

“They should evolve as well.” Replied Ping. When they arrived at the Fighting Dojo, it was packed with Trainers with Flying, Psychic, and Fairy-Type Pokemon.

“What’s the occasion?” Asked Louise.

“They’re gonna give away a rare Fighting-Type Egg to whoever beats Kiyo!” Said a younger Trainer.

“Let me guess.” Said Louise. “Tyrogue.”

“Nope.” Said the Trainer.

“Mankey?” Asked Ping.

“It’s a Riolu egg.” Said another Trainer. “He got the Egg from a special Breeder who specializes in canine Pokemon like Growlithe, Snubbull, and Lillipup to make sure they have the best moves, Natures, and Abilities!”

“This is your chance, Louise!” Said Ping, handing her a brown diamond. “Use this opportunity to train Geodude.”

“What’s the diamond for?” Asked Louise.

“You’ll see.” Ping replied with a smile on his face.

“Actions speak louder than words!” Said the first Trainer. “Go, Pidgeotto!” Pidgeotto was sent out.

“I choose you!” Shouted Louise. “Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“Pidgeotto!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Steel Wing!” Pidgeotto tried smacking Rockette with his wings, but luckily, the Geodude avoided the attack.

“Rockette!” Said Louise. “Use Rock Slide!” Rockette threw boulders at Pidgeotto, and the Bird Pokemon fainted.

“How was that possible?!” Asked Trainer 1. “My Pidgeotto is Level 28! What Level is your Geodude?”

“Level 21.” Answered Louise. “Though she might end up being Level 23 after the battle. How did this happen?”

“I gave you a Rock Gem.” Said Ping. “They power up Rock-Type attacks. There is one Gem for each of the 18 known Types, and I own and study all of them.”

“Good thing I have a Pokemon that counters Rock!” Said Trainer 1, returning Pidgeotto to his Poke Ball. “Go, Azumarill!” Azumarill was sent out.

“You did a good job, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Rock Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Bella!” Bella was sent out.

“Azumarill!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Body Slam!” Azumarill jumped into the air and crashed into Bella, leaving the Flower Pokemon with half her HP.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf!” Bella shot leaves at Azumarill, leaving the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon with half his HP.

“Azumarill!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Hydro Pump!” Azumarill tried to fire lots of water at Bella, but the attack missed and drenched another trainer.

“Sorry.” Said Ping. “We’re having a battle here.”

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf again!” Bella shot more sharp leaves at Azumarill, and the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon fainted.

“I knew I should’ve taught Azumarill Ice Beam.” Said Trainer 1, returning the Aqua Rabbit Pokemon to his Poke Ball. Before he could send out his next Pokemon, something was happening to Bellsprout.

“What’s happening?” Asked Louise.

“Your Bellsprout is evolving!” Said Ping. Bella’s head grew so big that its body couldn’t support it. The leaves migrated to the sides of her head, and the eyes changed, too. Bella had evolved into Weepinebll.

“Good thing my final Pokemon is a Psychic-Type!” Said Trainer 1, returning Azumarill to his Poke Ball. “Go, Mr. Mime!” Mr. Mime was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Bella!” Said Louise, returning the Weepinebell to her Poke Ball. “Go, Evinrude!” Evinrude was sent out.

“Evinrude!” Said Louise. “Use Lunge!” Evinrude lunged towards Mr. Mime and attacked with full force, leaving the Barrier Pokemon with 60% of her HP.

“Mr. Mime!” Said Trainer 1. “Use Thunder!” Mr. Mime attacked Evinrude with a wicked bolt of lightning, and the Yanma fainted.

“Oh no!” Said Louise, returning Evinrude to his Poke Ball. “Good thing Mr. Mime is a dual-Type Pokemon! Go, Maggie!” Maggie was sent out.

“Too bad Magnemite is weak against the next attack!” Said Trainer 1. “Mr. Mime, use Focus Blast!” Mr. Mime heightened her mental focus and unleashed her power, but luckily, the attack missed and broke a window in the dojo. While everyone was distracted, Ping snuck a Steel Gem onto Magnemite’s right magnet.

“Magnemite!” Said Louise. “Use Flash Cannon!” Magnemite emitted a powerful flash strong enough to make Mr. Mime faint. The flash was strong enough to catch the attention of Kiyo, who walked over to Louise and Ping.

“What’s all the commotion?” He asked.

“We just finished a battle, sir.” Replied Ping. “No need to alert the authorities.”

“We?” Asked Louise.

“I can see that you used Gems in this battle.” Said Kiyo. “Gems are strong items that power up one move. Where did you get the Steel Gem?”

“I gave one to her.” Said Ping. “I am Professor Gingko from Pignhei, and I study Pokemon moves. I also collect and use Gems, since I feel that they’re unique and underutilized.”

“Very wise.” Said Kiyo. “You have been teaching this girl well. What is your name, young madam?”

“Louise.” She answered.

“Louise,” Said Kiyo, taking out the Riolu egg. “Even though I haven’t witnessed the whole battle, I think you’re ready. You deserve this Riolu egg.” He handed Louise the Riolu egg.

“Thank you,” Said Louise. “But I have enough Pokemon, already.”

“Very well.” Said Kiyo, taking back the egg. “Take this instead. It’s a rare TM that contains the move necessary to evolve Yanma into Yanmega.” She handed Louise an unnumbered TM that contained Ancient Power.

“Thank you.” Said Louise. “But I need to evolve 15 of my Pokemon to defeat Gong Shen in Pingehi. He wants to force everyone to use only Electric, Dark, and Poison-Type Pokemon.”

“I will help you evolve all the Pokemon in your Party, if I have to!” Said Kiyo. “Everyone!” Whoever beats Louise will receive 50 Rare Candies!” All the Trainers roared, but Ping felt something fishy.

“But you probably don’t have 50 Rare Candies.” He whispered to Kiyo.

“That’s alright.” Replied Kiyo. “Besides, I have a feeling that none of these Trainers will defeat a girl with this much moxie!”

—-------------------------------

Back in Pinghei, Gong Shen ordered a Grunt to capture four powerful Legendaries to pit against Yuza and Terra to distract them: Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu. He then traveled all over the Region to find the two, and they were having a date together near Soda Lake.

“Oh, it’s you.” Said Terra. “Looks like we have to arrest you.”

“But I have a surprise.” Said Grunt. “Let’s see how you can handle these!” He sent out four Timer Balls that contained the Treasures of Ruin: Wo-Chien, Chien-Pao, Ting-Lu, and Chi-Yu.

“This will distract you two while we continue our crime spree!” Said Grunt, pulling out a bottle of a purple substance. He opened up the bottle, and a gas came out that made the Legendaries go berserk.

“Looks like we’re gonna have to fight these Pokemon and return them to their habitats.” Said Yuna.

‘You got it, girlfriend.” Said Terra, and they started a Pokemon battle against the Legendaries.

Author's Notes: In Pokemon Black and White, players can find Gems that power up moves that correspond with its Type. They're a bit like Z-Moves from Sun and Moon, but more affordable.

In Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, there is a substance known as R. It is made from the same chemicals that helped create Mewtwo, and will make a Pokemon of any species go berserk Zootopia style.

Evinrude (Louise's Yanma) is named after the friendly dragonfly from The Rescuers.

After for why he didn't appear in The Rescuers Down Under, there are three possible reasons. #1. Evinriude is from Louisiana, and the Rescue Aid Society's main branch is located in New York. #2. It was way too cold when Bernard and Bianca got notified about Cody's kidnapping. #3. Dragonflies as adults only have a lifespan of 6-8 weeks.

Soda Lake is named after one of the locations in Super Mario World. Completing this level will unlock a path to the Star World, which has a secret area leading to the final boss.

Louise v s. the Equalites Chapter 4

The next morning, Ping Gingko had arrived in Johto’s Battle Frontier, which also had an airport.

“We have arrived in Johto.” Said the announcer. “Please do not exit the plane unless it has come to a complete stop. Thanks for flying with us! We hope to see you again!” Ping ran out of the plane and hurried over to Route 40.

“I may have not brought a Flying-Type Pokemon with me,” Ping said to himself. “But at least I brought a Water-Type Pokemon! Go, Seaking!” Seaking was sent out.

“Seaking, use Surf!” Commanded Ping, and the Goldfish Pokemon jumped into the water so Ping could ride on her. “Great! It will take about an hour to get to Cianwood City, so let’s just relax for now.” Seaking started swimming over to Cianwood with Ping on his back, but she was having a hard time carrying her human.

—--------------------------------------------------

A few hours later, Louise has finally arrived at Route 48. New Pokemon that she caught included Buizel and Shellder. Since her Buizel and Shellder are too small to carry a human, Louise decided to travel to Cianwood City by boat and travel the rest of the way on Honda, who was now a Revavroom. She entered the Safari Zone Gate, and an unfamiliar voice called her name.

“Louise!” Said the voice. “Louise, is that you?”

“Um, yes.” Louise said with a scared tone. “Who are you? My parents say to never talk to strangers unless they’re Pokemon Trainers.”

“I am Professor Gingko from Pengei.” Greeted the man. “I have traveled all this way to find you. Apparently, you’re the only one who can save us. The Equalites have taken over Pinghei and have forced everyone to use only Electric, Dark, and Poison-Type Pokemon!”

“But why me?” Asked Louise.

“Only Hao knows.” Replied Ping. “And I need to train you to defeat the Equalites and restore peace to Pignhei! Besides, the other Gym Leaders fled except for Yuza and Terra.”

“But my Pokemon aren’t ready yet!” Said Louise. “Only three of them are fully evolved now. Also, I was gonna catch a Sliggoo in the Safari Zone.”

“Okay, okay.” Said Ping. “But as soon as you catch one, leave the Safari Zone and meet me at the Fighting Dojo in Saffron City.”

“But my parents told me to only stay in Johto.” Said Louise.

“We’ll speak to them before we leave.” Said Ping. “Where do you live?”

—-----------------------------------------------------

After catching a Sliggoo, Louise and Ping went to Cherrygrove City to tell Yvette and Clive about the news. As one would expect, they were both very concerned.

“Why does Louise have to go?” Asked Yvette. “What if something bad happens to her?”

“Don’t worry, madam.” Said Ping. “I’ll text you every hour so you won’t get too worked up.”

“Both of us?” Asked Clive.

“Yes.” Answered Ping. “Please give me your cell phones so we can exchange phone numbers.” Clive and Yvette reluctantly gave their Poryphones to Ping, and he typed his phone numbers into them.

“There!” Exclaimed Ping. “The next text message you receive will be from me. Sorry, but we have to get going. Who knows when Gong Shen will find out about Louise!”

“Okay.” Said Yvette. “Please keep our daughter safe.”

“I will!” Said Ping. “I was good at babysitting Pokemon when I was Louise’s age. Come on, Louise. We’ll take the train in Goldenrod City.”

—--------------------------------------------------

Back in Pinghei, Gong Shen was ruling over Pinghei with an iron fist, even if it’s only been a day. With the help of the Equalites, he has taken over the city and forced everyone to use Poison, Electric, and Dark-Type Pokemon. Anyone who didn’t hand over their Pokemon to Gong Shen or opposed to the new rules would get arrested, or worse, witness their Pokemon get eaten or taxidermized. Luckily for the Gym Leaders, they fled the Region while Yuza and Terra fought off as many Equalites as they could. During this time, Gong Shen invaded the Pagoda of Indulgence and threatened to kidnap Hao.

“You must be Gong Shen.” Said the Champion. “You made the wrong move by fighting the strongest Trainer in Pinghei.”

“Really, grandpa?” Asked Gong Shen. “Show me what you got.”

“Very well.” Said Hao. “Go, Pelipper!” Pelipper was sent out, though Gong Shen just laughed.

“Really, man?” He laughed. “Today will not be your day. Go, Vikavolt!” Vikavolt was sent out.

“Pelipper!” Said Hao. “Use Surf!” Pelipper summoned a tidal wave that crashed into Vikavolt, leaving the Stage Beetle Pokemon with half his HP.

“Vikavolt!” Said Gong Shen. “Use Thunderbolt!” Vikavolt summoned a lightning bolt that struck Pelipper, and the Water Bird Pokemon fainted.

“You did your best, Pelipper.” Said Hao, returning the Water Bird Pokemon to his Poke Ball. “Go, Talonflame!” Talonflame was sent out.

“Talonflame!” Said Hao. “Use Flare Blitz!” Talonflame lit himself on fire and crashed into Vikavolt, and the Stag Beetle Pokemon fainted. Talonflame also took damage from the recoil.

“Good thing my next Pokemon is the Bully of the Sea!” Said Gong Shen, returning Vikavolt to his Poke Ball. “Go, Sharpedo!” Sharpedo was sent out.

“That was excellent, Talonflame!” Said Hao, returning the Scorching Pokemon to his Poke Ball. “Go, Tropius!” Tropius was sent out, but Gong Shen laughed again.

“That’s like pitting an Arrokuda against a Cramorant!” He remarked. “Sharpedo, use Ice Fang!” Sharpedo bit Tropius with her freezing fangs, and the Fruit Pokemon fainted.

“This is not gonna end well.” Hao remarked.

Author's Note: In the mobile spinoff game Pokemon Masters EX, players can use a Porygon-shaped cellphone called a Poryphone to recruit other Pokemon Trainers. It also functions as the main menu of the game.

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 3

Later that day in Pinghei, Professor Gingko made it to the Pagoda of Indulgence, where Champion Hao lives. When Ping burst through the doors, he heard a loud shush.

“Be quiet.” Said Hao. “This is a place of tranquility and silence.”

“But it’s an emergency!” Ping whispered. “The Equalites have taken over Pinghei.”

“Equalites?” Asked Hao.

“Remember Team Rocket?” Asked Ping. “Well, they’re like that. They’re forcing everyone to only use Poison, Dark, and Electric-Type Pokemon. And to make matters worse, two of Pinghei’s five Gym Leaders have fled in terror!”

“That is an emergency.” Said Hao. “Better get out my Mystic Pokemon.” Hao walked over to his drawer, opened it up, and it revealed twelve additional Poke Balls. He picked one that was green and yellow, opened it up, and it revealed Xatu inside.

“A Xatu?” Asked Ping. “How did you catch one if they’re not native to Pinghei?”

“I may be old,” Said Hao. “But I still have spunk in these old bones. I caught this one in Johto after solving a difficult puzzle. Xatu, use Future Sight!”

“Xat Xat!” Shouted the Mystic Pokemon, and it floated into the air with its red chest markings glowing.

“He’s having a vision.” Said Hao. Xatu chanted again, but Ping couldn’t understand a thing.

“He says to go to Johto.” Said Hao. “You’ll find a girl named Louise who will defeat the Equalites, and you need to train her. Right now, she just got out of the Union Cave. Tomorrow, she will travel to the Safari Zone to catch a Sliggoo, and you have to train her.”

“How come?” Asked Ping.

“Because she’s the chosen one.” Replied Hao as Xatu floated gently back to the ground. “Speaking of which, the next plane to Johto leaves at 4 PM. Better book a flight before the Equalites take over the airport, as well.”

“Thank you so much!” Said Ping, as he hurried out of the Pagoda of Indulgence to book the next flight to Johto. However, little did they know that a Murkrow was spying on them, and it belonged to an Equalite Grunt!

—---------------------------------

At the same time, Louise had caught two more Pokemon: Magnemite and Snubbull. She decided to rest at the Three Beasts Hotel, which was built on the same location as the Burnt Tower. In her hotel room, Louise set up Holo-Tok on her Poke Gear to call Yvette and Clive and tell her about her adventure so far.

“Hi, mom! Hi, dad!” Louise started. “You’re probably worried about me, so I decided to call you in case I got in scrapes. Would you like to see some of my Pokemon so far?”

“Sure.” Said Yvette. “Just make sure you didn’t catch Magikarp or Onix.”

“Great!” Said Louise, throwing out six different Poke Balls and revealing a Geodude, Growlithe, Magnemite, Makuhita, Absol, and Drowzee. “This is Rockette, my Geodude, though I want to evolve her into Golem soon. I caught her in the Dark Cave. Next up is Puja, my Drowzee, though I want to evolve her into Hypno soon. I caught her on Route 34. This friendly canine here is my Growlithe, Oliver. I caught him in Route 36, but as soon as I find a Fire Stone, I’ll evolve him into Arcanine. Next up is Luisa, my Makuhita, though I want to evolve her into Hariyama soon. I caught her along with Jinx, my Absol, in Union Cave. Jinx saved me from an Onix, and because of that, she’s part of the team. And finally, there’s Maggie, my Magnmeite. I caught it recently on Route 37, though I want to evolve it into Magnezone.”

“But there are no magnetic fields in Johto!” Said Clive.

“No need to worry, dad!” Assured Louise. “I learned in school that Magneton in some Regions also evolves into Magnezone when exposed to a Thunder Stone, just like Pikachu and Eevee!”

“Is that all you caught so far?” Asked Yvette.

“Nope!” Said Louise. “I also have a Noctowl, Spinarak, Bellsprout, Tandemaus, Yanma, and Snubbull. And if you’re wondering about Honda, he is outside in the parking lot.

“But what if he tries wheeling away?” Asked Clive.

“Don’t worry, dad.” Said Louise. “Honda is chained to a Lagging Tail so he won’t run off.”

“Just one more question before you leave.” Asked Yvette. “How come you don’t have a Water-Type Pokemon?”

“I’ll catch two tomorrow, mom.” Said Louise. “Buizel and Shellder!”

“Just make sure that Shellder doesn’t close its shell on you.” Said Clive. “Good night, sweetheart!”

“Good night, mom! Good night, dad!” Said Louise, and she hung up for the night. Suddenly, a Bellhop arrived with her dinner: Miltank cheese pizza with Rindo salad on the side.

“Here’s dinner, madam.” He said. “But please put your Pokemon back in your Poke Balls. We only allow one Pokemon per bedroom.”

Author's Notes: Holo-Tok, a riff on TikTok, is named after the Holo Caster, a device that players can use to communicate with each other through holograms.

Puja (Louise's Drowzee) is named after my science teacher during high school.

Luisa (Louise's Makuhita) is named after Luisa Madrigal from Encanto. She may be strong enough to send an earthquake all the way to China, but she is actually as soft as a baby capybara.

In Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver (along with Pokemon Crystal), one of the NPCs at the Kanto Power Plant will give you a Magneton named Maggie in exchange for a Dugtrio.

In Pokemon Sun and Moon, players can battle other Trainers at the Battle Buffet to win delicious meals such as Miltank Cheese Pizza, Rindo Salads, Takedown Steak, Chansey Omelets, and Whirlpool Sushi.

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 2

After the party, Louise decided to test out her new presents by going on a quest to capture 18 different Pokemon. She made a deal that she’d call every day to make sure she’s okay and NEVER leave Johto. Luckily, she was given five Nest Balls to catch her next five Pokemon, since they’re great at catching Pokemon Levels 2-9. Louise arrived with Honda in Route 30, and she decided to catch two Pokemon here, and another in the next Route.

“Hoothoot are usually nocturnal, but it’s only 3 in the afternoon.” She said to herself. “However, if you were to knock your head against this tree trunk, a Pokemon may fall out. Honda, use Headbutt!” Honda crashed into the tree, and a Hoothoot came out. Luckily, it was sound asleep, even after being knocked out of the tree.

“I’ve never been this close to a wild Pokemon before.” Louise quietly said out loud, slowly walking over to the Owl pokemon. She picked up the Hoothoot to check its gender. Yep. It was a girl.

“Since it’s probably just Level 5 or something,” Said Louise. “I’ll use this Nest Ball to catch it without even fighting it.” Louise threw the Poke Ball at Hoothoot, and after a few seconds of wobbling, it clicked.

“Gotcha!” Louise exclaimed. “I’ll name her Big Mama. Let’s see if I can catch a Weedle or a Spinarak. Honda, use Headbutt on the next tree!” Honda did as commanded, and a Spinarak came out.

“Honda!” Said Louise. “Use Gyro Ball!” Varoom tackled Spinarak with a high-speed spin, and the Spring Spit Pokemon fainted.

“Now to throw the Nest Ball!” Louise threw the Poke Ball at Spinarak, and after a few seconds of wobbling, it clicked.

“Gotcha!” Said Louise. “This will be as easy as Poffin.”

—----------------------------------------------------

Two days later, Gong Shen and the Equalites have arrived at Ducai, Pinghei’s capital, so he can overthrow the Region’s mayor and professor. He has already defeated the Grass and Water-Type Gym Leaders Jia and Quin, and was ready to fight Shenji. But first, he needs to get rid of Professor Ping Gingko. Shen and his crew literally burst through the doors of Town Hall, with determination in his eyes.

“Get out of the chair or face my wrath!” He shouted.

“Don’t speak so loudly.” Said Ping. “You’ll wake up Bulbasaur and Quaxly, and the Litten egg isn’t ready to hatch for at least another month.”

“If it isn’t Part Poison, Electric, or Dark,” Said Shen. “Then it should be either eaten or stuffed.”

“Not without a fight.” Said Ping. “Go, Seaking!” Seaking was sent out, but Shen couldn’t help but laugh hysterically.

“You’re sending out a fish against whatever I send out?” He laughed. “Go, Vikavolt!” Vikavolt was sent out.

“Vikavolt!” He shouted. “Use Zap Cannon!” Vikavolt sent a strong electric blast to crash down on Seaking, but luckily, the Goldfish Pokemon avoided the attack.

“Seaking!” Said Ping. “Use Mud Shot!” Seaking, holding a Ground Gem, fired lots of mud at Vikavolt, and it managed to knock him out.

“WHAT?!” Shen screamed in disbelief. “No one hustles an Equalite and gets away with it!” Shen sent out Pangoro to grab Ping, but he was too quick. He returned Seaking to her Poke Ball and escaped through the window.

“He got away, boss!” Said an Equalite Grunt.

“That’s okay.” Replied Shen, returning Vikavolt and Pangoro to their Poke Balls. “At least he’s out of the chair.” Meanwhile, Ping checked his belt to make sure he had the Pokemon he needed for his usual team: Incineroar, Seaking, Dedenne, Lucario, Starfroot, and Orthworm.

“We need to see Hao. He knows even more than I do!”

—-----------------------------------

Back in Johto, Louise has already caught five more Pokemon: Geodude, Tandemaus, Yanma, Drowzee, and Growlithe. Now that it was Wednesday, that meant Channel 7.5 would be playing Hoennese music. Louise decided to go spelunking through the Union Cave to find a Makuhita. She put on the music on her Poke Gear, and she immediately heard rumbling.

“Huh?” She said to herself. “What was that?” An Absol then jumped from behind a stalagmite. “Oh, it’s just an Absol. You are a very misunderstood Pokemon, and aside from your strong Psychic powers, there’s nothing really disastrous about you.” Absol then started barking

“What’s that?” She said. “I can’t speak Absol.” The ground started to rumble again. “What is it that you’re trying to tell…” Suddenly, an Onix popped out of the ground and was about to crush Louise, but the Absol managed to jump into the frey and save the human.

“You were trying to warn me about the Onix?” The Absol nodded her head. “You really do warn people about incoming disasters, don’t you?” Absol nodded her head yes. “Would you mind if I caught you without fighting you? Dark-Type Pokemon can be very powerful and useful.” The Absol nodded her head in agreement. “Okay. Here it goes!” Louise threw a Dusk Ball at Absol, and after a few seconds of wobbling, the Ball clicked.

“Gotcha!” Said Louise. “Now to catch a Makuhita.”

Author's Notes: The Nest Ball is a Poke Ball that works the best on lower-leveled Pokemon. Use it on Pokemon Levels 2-11.

Big Mama, Louise's Hoothoot, is named after Big Mama from The Fox and the Hound. It's based on how I personally nickname Pokemon after characters that I know.

Poffins are pastries that players can obtain Pokemon Diamond and Pearl. Feed these to your Pokemon, and they might be able to win Pokemon Contests!

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 1

To my dear friend Kathy, the aunt I never had. She was a beacon of hope, a ball of joy, a friend. We will never forget you.

Kathy Remmes

1949-2024

It was a sunny day in Pinghei, a Region that focuses on balance, and everyone was enjoying Pokemon battles. Everyone, that is, except for Gong Shen, who only uses Electric, Poison, and Dark-Type Pokemon. One day, he had enough of Trainers having diverse teams, so he went outside and gave a speech.

“Attention, citizens of Pinghei!” He shouted through a megaphone. “For years, humans have relied on Pokemon with 18 different Types when we only need three: Electric, Poison, and Dark. Electric beats Water and Flying, Poison beats Grass and Fairy, and Dark beats Ghost and Psychic.” One young Trainer raised his hand.

“But what about the other Types?” He asked.

“Simple.” Said Gong Shen. “Electric, Poison, and Dark have been combined with just about every Type! Not to mention that most Pokemon have a surprising set of movepools. Why get a Fighting-Type Pokemon when Gengar can learn Focus Blast?”

“You have a point.” Said another Trainer.

“So, who’s with me?” Gong Shen asked, but there was silence. “Whoever joins me gets 5 Big Pearls!” The crowd soon cheered.

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Meanwhile, in Johto’s Cherrygrove City, a plus-sized girl named Louise was getting ready for her 16th birthday. She took her shower, had some Rawst Berry pancakes for breakfast, brushed her teeth, and was now putting on a blue shirt with a pink tank top.

“This is it, Louise.” She said to herself in the mirror. “You’ll be turning 16 this year, the second luckiest number out there. Make sure that this birthday will be the best!”

“Louise, come on!” Said a voice. “We got all your friends out! Besides, you’ll be excited for the presents!” Louise ran outside to see everyone, and they decorated the front lawn with balloons and streamers.

“Happy birthday, Louise!” Said everyone, which included Louise’s parents and her classmates Benny, Brenda, and Maxine. Both Brenda and Maxine were holding presents with Eevee-patterned wrapping paper.

“This is something every girl your age would die for!” Said Louise’s dad, grabbing the round present from Brenda.

“It’s round like a Voltorb.” Observed Louise. “Let’s see what’s inside!”  Louise rips off the wrapping paper, and it revealed a Poke Ball.

“A Poke Ball.” Said Louise with little enthusiasm. “How great.”

“It’s what’s inside the Poke Ball!” Said her mom. Louise opened the Poke Ball, and out came a Pokemon she’d least expect: A Varoom.

“A Varoom?” Said Louise. “But isn’t this Pokemon from Paldea?”

“I caught one while visiting Chuso.” Replied Benny. “Does that mean you don’t like it?”

“I love it!” Said Louise. “I’m gonna name him Honda. It is a him, isn’t it?”

“Yes, I checked.” Answered Benny. “I picked Varoom because teenage girls your age love getting cars as a birthday present, and Revavroom is the next best thing. A little Pidgey also told me that you want to be a Pokemon Trainer, and I felt Varoom would be a good choice for you. Honda is Level 30, just ten levels away from evolving.”

“But I recommend catching other Pokemon to have a diverse team.” Said Maxine. “Which is why you should open the next gift.” She handed Louise another present, this one shaped like a box. She ripped off the wrapping paper, and it revealed a Poke Gear.

“A Poke Gear?” Louise asked again. “Why a Poke Gear and not a Rotom Phone?”

“It’s the latest model.” Said her mom. “You can adjust the radio so that Pokemon from other Regions magically appear! C’mon, let’s go to Route 29 to prove it. Clive, keep the guests entertained, please!” While Clive was entertaining Maxine, Brenda, and Benny, Louise, Yvette (Louise’s mom), and Honda traveled to Route 29 to demonstrate the Poke Gear.

“First, we switch it to Channel 7.5.” She said, tinkering with the Poke Gear. “It’s music from Galar, so a Pokemon from Galar will pop out of the grass today. Get Varoom ready.” Soon, a Skwovet, which can’t be found in Johto, popped out of the grass. “See? It’s that simple. You can use it to finally catch Dark-Type Pokemon in Johto! There’s also a pamphlet that points out where each Pokemon can be found with the Radio Feature.” Yvette handed the pamphlet to Louise, and she was amazed at what Pokemon can be caught with it.

“Absol can be caught in caves on Wednesdays,” She read. “Carbink can be caught on Saturdays in caves, Buizel can be caught in grassy areas on Thursdays, and Golett can be caught in towers on Fridays! This is so cool! When can I start using it?”

“Perhaps after the party.” Said Yvette.

“I suppose you’re right.” Said Louise, and she, Yvette, and Honda decided to go back to the party. As for the Skwovet, it just scampered back into the thicket.

Author's Notes: In Pokemon HeartGold and SoulSilver, enhanced remakes of Gold and Silver, players can use their PokeGear (which is a bit like a cellphone) to entice Pokemon from Hoenn and Sinnoh to pop out.

For this story, I was thinking: Why not use the PokeGear to catch Pokemon from Unova, Kalos, Alola, Galar, and Paldea? Through the story, Louise also encounters and catches Tandemaus, Makuhita, Absol, Buizel, and Carbink, all of which she got with the PokeGear's music app.

In case you didn't guess already, Honda (Louise's Varoom) is named after the car brand of the same name.

Yvette (Louise's mom) is named after my grandmother. It's also the name of puppet fabricator Yvette Helin, who also happened to work on the short-lived stage musical Pokemon Live!

Yvette working on a Vaporeon puppet for the show.

Movie Review: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants

Movie Review: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants                                                         8-7-24

Based on Ann Brashares’ best-selling novel, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is about a special summer in the lives of four lifelong friends who are separated for the first time. On a shopping trip, the young women find a pair of thrift-shop jeans that fits each of them perfectly and decide to use these pants as a way of keeping in touch over the months ahead, each wearing the jeans for a week to see what luck they bring her before sending them on to the next. Though miles apart, the four friends still experience life, love, and loss together in a summer they’ll never forget.

Now, what did I think of the movie? First of all, I love the representation in the movie, especially for its time. In this movie alone, we get to learn about cultures from Greece, Mexico, and the states South Carolina and Maryland.

Lena meeting a boy named Kostas while in Greece.

We also get to see America Ferrera in one of her early roles in this movie, who would later voice Astrid in How To Train Your Dragon and play Gloria in Greta Gerwig's Barbie. In ‘Sisterhood’, Ferrera plays Carmen, who visits Maryland and learns about her Caucasian dad getting married to another woman.

America's the one in the spotted shirt/dress.

If I were to complain about one thing, I felt that the jeans, which the movie is named after, don’t affect the plot. It’s called The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, but the pants barely appear!

In conclusion, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants is a really good film to watch during the Summer. Just wait until your own kids are teenagers themselves, since this movie does have heavy themes for a family film.

Rating: 3.6 stars out of 5.