Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 8

 Three days have passed, and all of Louise’s Pokemon have been fully evolved. She and Ping were now on a small boat to Wushu City. Louise’s party included Magie (who was now a Magnezone), Rockette (who was now a Golem), Puja, Emmet, Diana (her Carbink), and Luisa (who was now a Hariyama).

“Do you really think I have a chance of beating Gong Shen?” Louise asked Ping.

“Of course, you do!” Replied the Professor. “You’re one of the strongest Trainers younger than 20 that I’ve ever met!”

“Now arriving at Wushu Harbor!” Said the captain. Upon hearing that, Louise looked around and saw Wushu City. However, all the Trainers had shackles on their legs and had either Poison, Dark, or Electric-Type Pokemon.

“Where are Terra and Yuza?” Asked Ping as he and Louise got out of the boat. “They’d be mortified by this!”

“They’re on their own sidequest.” Said Zhang as she revealed herself. “You must be Louise. I’ve been following you on PikaGram, and you’re really talented.”

“Thank you.” Said Louise, only to realize it was sarcasm. “Hey!”

“If you want to find Gong Shen,” Said Zhang. “Then you have to defeat me without the help of Gingko!”

“Challenge accepted!” Said Louise. “You go first!”

“You asked for it, chubbo!” Said Zhang. “Go, Honchkrow!” Honchkrow was sent out.

“I choose you!” Said Louise. “Maggie!” Maggie was sent out.

“I just remembered!” Said the captain. “I have to visit Pacifidlog Town!” He then rode off in his boat.

“Honchkrow!” Said Zhang. “Use Heatwave!” Honchkrow exhaled hot breath on Magnezone, dealing great damage to the Magnet Area Pokemon.’

“Maggie!” Said Louise. “Use Thunder!” Maggie dropped a wicked bolt of lightning on Honchkrow, and the Big Boss Pokemon fainted.

“You just got lucky!” Said Zhang, returning Honchkrow to his Poke Ball. “Go, Electivire!” Electivire was sent out.

“That was excellent, Maggie!” Said Joe, returning Maggie to its Poke Ball. “Go, Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“Electivire!” Said Zhang. “Use Brick Break!” Electivire delivered a quick punch to Rockette, and this could’ve knocked out the Golem, but luckily, she had a Chople Berry that weakened the damage.

“Rockette!” Said Louise. “Use Earthquake!” Rockette shook the ground violently (luckily, they were no longer on the dock), and the Motor Drive Pokemon fainted.

“Electivire just has bad Defense stats!” Said Zhang, returning the Motor Drive Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Muk!” Muk was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Megaton Pokemon to her Poke Ball. “Go, Puja!” Puja was sent out.

“Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Psychic!” Puja hit Muk with a strong telekinetic force, leaving the Sludge Pokemon with half her HP.

“Muk!” Said Zhang. “Use Fling!” Muk grabbed her Poison Barb and threw it at Puja, poisoning the Hypno.

“You can still do it, Puja!” Said Louise. “Use Psychic once more!” Puja hit Muk with another strong telekinetic force, and the Sludge Pokemon fainted.

“I used up half my team!” Said Zhang, returning Muk to her Poke Ball. “Go, Toxtricity!” Low Key Toxtricity was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Puja!” Said Louise, returning the Hypno to her Poke Ball. “Go!” Rockette!” Rockette was sent out.

“You better use an Item first.” Said Ping. “Louise pulled a Max Potion out of her bag and sprayed medicine on Rockette. Zhang couldn’t help but laugh.

“You know the rules!” Said Zhang. “Using an Item uses up a turn! Toxtricity, use Belch!” Toxtricity tried letting out a loud burp, but nothing happened.

“Look who forgot the rules, now!” Said Ping. “A Pokemon needs to eat a Berry to perform Belch.”

“Right you are, Mr. Gingko!” Said Louise. “Rockette, use Earthquake!” Rockette shook the ground violently, and the Punk Pokemon fainted.

“Luckily, my next Pokemon is my strongest!” Said Zhang, returning Toxtricity to her Poke Ball. “Go, Nidoqueen!” Nidoqueen was sent out.

“That was excellent, Rockette!” Said Louise, returning the Golem to her Poke Ball. “Go, Emmet!” Emmet was sent out.

“Emmet!” Said Louise. “Use Aqua Tail!” Emmet smacked Nidoqueen with his mighty tail, leaving the Drill Pokemon with half her HP.

“Nidoqueen!” Said Zhang. “Use Thunder Punch!” Nidoqueen lit her right fist with lightning and slugged Emmet with it, leaving the Floatzel with a quarter of his HP.

“Emmet!” Said Louise. “Use Hydro Pump!” Emmet fired lots of water at Nidoqueen, and the Drill Pokemon fainted.

“This is my last chance!” Said Zhang, returning Nidoqueen to her Poke Ball. “Go, Morpeko!” Morpeko was sent out.

“You deserve a rest, Emmet!” Said Louise, returning the Floatzel to her Poke Ball. “Go, Luisa!” Luisa was sent out.

“Morpeko!” Said Zhang. “Use Aura Wheel!” Morpeko attacked Luisa and raised her speed with the energy stored in her cheeks. The Two-Sided Pokemon later changed from yellow to purple.

“Luisa!” Said Louise. “Use Earthquake!” Luisa shook the ground violently, making Morpeko faint.

“Alright, alright!” Said Zhang, returning Morpeko to her Poke Ball. “I won’t tell you where Gong Shen is, but I will tell you that the next place you should go to is…” Zhang was knocked out by a Scizor.

“Great job, Scizor!” Said Yuza. “Sorry that we were absent for so long. A Grunt captured the Treasures of Ruin and pitted them against me and Terra. Right now, she’s returning them to their natural habitats.”

“But where am I supposed to go next?” Asked Louise.

“You can go to either the Water or Fire-Type Gyms.” Said Yuza. “I will go to the Grass-Type Gym.”

“Guess I’ll go to the Water-Type Gym first.” Said Louise. “But is there a Pokemon Center nearby without Grunts? I need to heal my Pokemon and change my team.”

Author's Notes: PikaGram is a spoof on Instagram.

Pacifidlog Town is a location in Hoenn that is located on the water. One of the NPCs will give you a Corsola in exchange for a Bellossom: That's like trading a Musharna in exchange for a Castform!

When given to a Pokemon, a Chople Berry reduces the damage of a super-effective Fighting-Type attack. This is especially useful since there are five different Types weak against Fighting.

Louise vs. the Equalites Chapter 7

Later, Louise, Ping, and Slowqueen arrived at Mt. Mortar. Louise brought Weepinbell to help defeat and catch Carbink, if one would even pop out.

“How are we gonna get DJ Ben to play Kalosian music?” Asked Louise. “He only plays that music on Saturdays, and today’s Friday.”

“I have my way.” Replied Ping, as he pulled out his cellphone and started calling DJ Ben.

“This is Pokemon Radio on Channel 7.5!” He said. “This is DJ Ben speaking, and right now, we’re playing Unova Route 1! What can I do for you today?”

“This is Professor Ping Gingko from Pinghei.” Said the Professor. “I need you to play Kalosian music today, please. It’s an emergency.”

“Sorry, but that’s against our policy.” Said DJ Ben. “You’ll have to wait until tomorrow to hear that kind of music.” This made Ping angry.

“Listen, you!” He shouted into the phone. “We only have who knows how long until Gong Shen decides to take over other Regions! DO YOU WANT TO BE REDUCED TO USING JUST ELECTRIC, POISON, AND DARK-TYPE POKEMON?!”

“Geez, you don’t have to yell about it.” Said Ben. “Okay, I’ll play Kalosian music, but that means I have to play different music tomorrow. What should I play?”

“How about I Love Magikarp?” Asked Louise. “I listened to that song all the time five years ago.”

“Okay.” Said Ben. “But I don’t know what Pokemon will pop up when I play that song.”

“Find out for yourself!” Said Louise. “We have to get going now.”

“Roger that!” Said Ben, and he played Kalosian music. Ping hung up on the phone, Louise turned the Radio for the Poke Gear on, and the three entered the cave. After a few minutes of spelunking, a Carbink fell to the cave floor.

“A wild Carbink appeared!” Remarked Ping.

“I got this, Mr. Gingko.” Said Louise. “Go, Bella!” Bella was sent out.

“Bella!” Said Louise. “Use Razor Leaf!” Bella fired sharp leaves at Carbink, and the Jewel Pokemon fainted.

“That was easier than I thought.” Said Ping. “Now throw a Poke Ball!”

“Good thing I went shopping!” Said Louise, as she pulled out a Dusk Ball at Carbink. After a few seconds of wobbling, the Poke Ball clicked.

“That was easier than I thought.” Said Louise. “But why did I catch a Carbink and not a Shuckle or a Diglett?”

“Carbink is said to be related to Diancie, and Diancie is revered in Pinghei as much as Lugia and Ho-Oh are in Johto.” Ping explained. “Something tells me that your Carbink might mutate into Diancie. However, after your adventure, I think you should catch some Mono-Type Pokemon in case you want to challenge Gym Leaders or E4 Members. Dual-Type Pokemon can have drawbacks, you know.”

“I know.” Replied Louise. “But first, we need to evolve Oliver and Maggie. As well as return Slowqueen to Mahina in Alola.”

“You’re right.” Said Ping. “We should return to the Global Trade Station!”

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

Meanwhile, Gong Shen was relaxing in Professor Gingko’s office with his feet on his desk. Suddenly, an Equalite with a Murkrow entered the building to inform Shen about news he got on PikaGram.

“What is it, Hunda?” He asked.

“It’s this Trainer from Johto!” Said Hunda, pulling out his Poryphone. “She’s been trained by Professor Gingko to defeat you. And she caught a Carbink!”

“No way.” Said Shen. “Tell Ransho, Xi and Lani to take over the Fire, Water, and Grass-Type Gyms and Zhang to head to the harbor in Wushu City. We’ll get ready to crush this girl like a Bug-Type!” As the Grunts buzzed off, Shen went to the closet to reveal Hao tied to a chair.

“Louise will stop you.” He said. “The prophecy says so.”

“And I’m the King of Kalos.” Said Shen. “Besides, how strong can an overweight teenage girl be?”

Author's Notes: In Pokemon Gold and Silver, along with the remakes HeartGold and SoulSilver, the Goldenrod City Radio Tower, the radio show is hosted by a DJ named Ben. The other characters claim that Ben has a charming and soothing voice.

I Love Magikarp, or The Magikarp Song, is a song about the infamous Water-Type fish, Magikarp. You can listen to the English dub of the song in the link below.

The Magikarp Song - YouTube

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.