The ferry rocked gently as it cut through the waves, the salty sea breeze carrying the scent of the ocean through the air. The sun hung high in the sky, casting bright rays over the deep blue water as Dewford Island finally came into view on the horizon.
May, sitting on the railing near Noah, pulled out her Pokédex, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. She glanced at Noah's Pokémon, who were gathered beside him on the ferry's railing—Sage, his newly evolved Dottler, Grimm, his mischievous Impidimp, Aeris, his ever-watchful Pidgey, and Tide, his sturdy but mostly motionless Nosepass.
"I've never scanned your Pokémon before," May said as she powered up her Pokédex. "Let's see what the Pokédex says about them."
She pointed the device at Aeris first, and the robotic voice of the Pokédex spoke:
"Pidgey, the Tiny Bird Pokémon. It is docile and prefers to avoid conflict. If disturbed, however, it can ferociously strike back using its sharp beak and powerful wings."
Aeris let out a soft chirp, tilting her head at May.
"Wow, Aeris sounds like a tough one," May said with a grin.
Noah smiled at Aeris who chirped back.
May then aimed her Pokédex at Sage, who remained still, his hard yellow shell glowing faintly under the sun.
"Dottler, the Radome Pokémon. It barely moves, hiding inside its shell while it gathers and stores psychic energy. It emits light from its body when communicating."
"That explains why he stays so still," May mused. "But I've seen him battle. He's definitely more active when he wants to be."
Noah nodded. "Yeah, Sage may look motionless, but he's got a good sense for battles. He doesn't need to move much to be effective."
Next, May pointed the Pokédex at Grimm, who was dangling upside down from the railing, playfully swaying back and forth. The Pokédex chimed again:
"Impidimp, the Wily Pokémon. Through its nose, it sucks in the energy of its foes and uses that energy to cause them confusion and mischief."
May shivered slightly. "Creepy! No wonder he's always trying to mess with people."
Grimm cackled gleefully at the comment before jumping onto Noah's shoulder and resting there with a smug look.
"And finally," May said, turning to Tide, who stood motionless near the railing. The Pokédex scanned him and spoke:
"Nosepass, the Compass Pokémon. Its magnetic nose is always pointed in the same direction. It moves very slowly and feeds on mineral-rich rocks to sustain its body."
Noah sighed, crossing his arms. "Yeah… Tide doesn't really move much. Unlike Roxanne's Nosepass, he just sort of… stays in one place most of the time."
May tilted her head. "That's true. When Roxanne used her Nosepass in battle, it moved a lot. It dodged, attacked, and even countered moves. But Tide barely even flinched in your match against her."
Noah nodded. "That's on me. I didn't realize what Tide ate at first. I kept giving him regular Pokémon food, thinking he was just being stubborn about eating." He glanced at Tide, who remained perfectly still, facing north. "But then I figured out he needs mineral-rich rocks to get his energy. I got him the best quality stuff I could find, so hopefully, he'll start getting his strength back and move around more."
May smiled. "That makes sense. If he wasn't getting the right food, of course he wouldn't be as energetic. But now that you've got the right diet for him, I bet he'll be just as active as Roxanne's Nosepass soon."
Noah patted Tide gently on the head. "I hope so. He's a great, but I want him to be at his best."
Brock, who had been listening to the conversation, nodded in approval. "You did the right thing, Noah. Understanding your Pokémon's needs is just as important as training them. Good nutrition plays a huge role in their growth."
"Yeah, I just wish I had figured it out sooner," Noah admitted shrugging his shoulder.
"Well, now you know," Ash chimed in, leaning on the railing. "And if Tide really starts moving like Roxanne's Nosepass, then your battles are going to get even better."
Noah gave a small smile. "Yeah. I'll make sure of that."
As their conversation wrapped up, the ferry captain's voice crackled over the ship's speakers.
"Attention passengers! We are now approaching Dewford Island. Please prepare for docking."
Excitement rippled through the group as they turned toward the approaching shoreline. Dewford Island was a sight to behold—golden beaches stretched out along the coast, their sands meeting the sparkling turquoise waters. Beyond the beaches, a dense jungle of green trees and rocky cliffs covered the land, with small buildings and huts scattered along the edges. The Dewford Gym, standing on a raised plateau overlooking the island, could be seen even from their distance.
"This place looks amazing," May said, taking in the view.
Brock smiled. "Dewford is known for its relaxed lifestyle, but it's also home to a lot of strong trainers."
Ash clenched his fists. "I can't wait to battle at the Gym!"
Max adjusted his glasses. "And don't forget, Dewford is famous for its caves too. There are rumors that rare Pokémon can be found in Granite Cave."
Noah glanced toward the jungle and rocky cliffs in the distance. "Granite Cave, huh…? That sounds like a good place to train."
The ferry slowed as it approached the wooden docks of Dewford Island. With a final shift, the vessel came to a stop, and the crew began preparing the walkway for passengers to disembark.
Ash stretched his arms. "Alright! Let's get moving!"
The group gathered their belongings and made their way toward the exit. As they stepped onto the dock, the warm island breeze greeted them, carrying the scent of the ocean and tropical flowers.
Dewford Island awaited, and with it, new adventures, new battles, and new challenges.
Noah took one last look at the horizon before turning his focus forward.
Stepping off the ferry onto Dewford's wooden docks, Noah took a deep breath of the fresh island air. The scent of salt, sand, and tropical flowers mixed together, creating an atmosphere that was entirely different from Petalburg and Oldale. The island had a laid-back vibe, but he could already tell from the trainers walking around that battles were just as much a part of life here as anywhere else.
Ash stretched his arms. "Finally! Dewford Gym, here I come!"
May adjusted her bandana, looking around. "This place feels different from Petalburg. It's like… smaller, but really lively."
Brock nodded. "Dewford's more of a traveler's stop. Trainers, hikers, and even researchers come here because of the caves and the Gym. It's also famous for its beaches."
Max adjusted his glasses. "There's even a saying—'Trendy Dewford.' They always have new fads going around."
Noah listened as they talked but remained focused on the town ahead. His goal was still training, improving his team, and preparing for future battles. He already had some ideas of what to do here.
As they moved through the docks and into town, they saw small, rustic-looking buildings lining the streets. Fishermen hauled in their latest catches while young trainers battled casually on the beachside. Surfboards leaned against walls, and islanders in relaxed clothing walked around barefoot.
"So, what's the plan?" May asked, looking at Noah.
Noah glanced at her before shrugging. "Stock up, train, and find somewhere to stay for the night."
"That's it?" May pouted. "No relaxing on the beach? No sightseeing?"
Noah arched a brow. "I didn't come here for a vacation."
May sighed dramatically. "You're no fun."
Ash grinned. "Hey, I get it. Noah's focused on getting stronger. I respect that."
Max smirked. "He reminds me of someone."
Ash blinked. "Huh?"
Max shook his head. "Never mind."
Brock crossed his arms. "Well, if we're getting supplies, there's a Pokémon Center nearby. We can rest there, and they might have information on trainers looking for battles."
"Sounds good," Noah agreed.
As they walked through town, May pulled out her Pokédex again. "You know, I still can't believe you have an Impidimp."
Noah glanced at Grimm, who was casually perched on his shoulder, swinging his legs back and forth. "What about it?"
"Well, for one thing, it's a Pokémon I've never seen before," May said. "And for another… I think it might be—"
Before she could finish, Grimm suddenly jumped from Noah's shoulder and tried to sneak into May's bag again.
"Hey! Get out of there!" she yelped, quickly pulling her bag away.
Noah swiftly grabbed Grimm by the back of his head and gave him a light bop. "Stop stealing."
Grimm pouted, crossing his arms and looking away.
Ash laughed. "Man, he's just like Aipom used to be."
May sighed. "I'm keeping my eyes on you, little thief."
Grimm responded with a mischievous smirk, but he didn't make another move for her bag.
With that small distraction over, they finally reached the Dewford Pokémon Center.
Inside, the Pokémon Center was bustling with trainers. Some were healing their Pokémon, others were looking at a large bulletin board filled with requests, and a few were watching battles on a TV screen.
The group headed to the counter, where Nurse Joy greeted them.
"Welcome to the Dewford Pokémon Center! How can I help you?"
"We'd like to heal our Pokémon," Ash said, handing over his Poké Balls.
"Same here," Noah added, passing over his team's Poké Balls.
The others followed suit, and Nurse Joy took their Pokémon to be treated.
As they waited, Noah wandered over to the bulletin board, scanning through the various notices. Some were for research assistants needed in Granite Cave, others were trainers looking for sparring partners, and a few were local events, including a fishing contest happening in a few days.
May peeked over his shoulder. "Looking for something specific?"
"Just checking if there are strong trainers looking for battles."
May rolled her eyes. "Of course you are."
Ash joined them, grinning. "You thinking about training here, too?"
Noah nodded. "I need my team to get stronger before my next battle."
Ash smirked. "Sounds like we'll both be training a lot."
Just then, Nurse Joy called them back to the counter, handing them their Poké Balls. "Your Pokémon are all fully healed!"
"Thanks, Nurse Joy!" they all said.
With their Pokémon back, the group exited the Pokémon Center and stood outside under the warm island sun.
"So," Brock said, stretching. "Where to first?"
Ash pumped his fist. "The Gym, of course!"
Max nodded. "Makes sense. Brawly, the Gym Leader, uses Fighting-types, so you should be ready."
Noah considered his options. He could go with Ash and observe his battle, but he had another idea.
"I'll pass on the Gym for now," Noah said. "I'm heading toward Granite Cave first."
May tilted her head. "Why the cave?"
"I heard there are strong wild Pokémon there," Noah explained. "It's a good place to train."
Brock nodded in understanding. "It's also home to some rare Rock-types. You might find something useful there."
May thought for a moment before smiling. "Alright, I'm coming with you."
Noah blinked. "What?"
"I want to see what's inside," May said. "Besides, I need to train Torchic, too."
Noah sighed. "Fine."
Ash grinned. "Guess we're splitting up, then. I'll go battle Brawly while you guys explore the cave."
Brock adjusted his backpack. "I'll go with Ash. He might need advice."
Max pumped his fist. "I want to see Ash battle, so I'll go with him too."
With their plans set, the group prepared to part ways.
Ash grinned at Noah. "Good luck in the cave. Maybe when we meet up later, we can have another battle."
Noah smirked. "Sure"
With that, Ash, Brock, and Max headed toward the Dewford Gym, while Noah and May turned toward the path leading to Granite Cave.
As they walked, May glanced at him with a teasing smile.
"You know, you never said why you're always so serious about training."
Noah remained silent for a moment before replying. "I have my reasons."
May studied him for a second but didn't press further. "Well, whatever they are, I'll be watching. You better not slack off."
Noah nodded. "I wasn't planning to."
With that, the two of them continued toward the cave, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.
The entrance to Granite Cave loomed before them, its gaping mouth leading into darkness. The moment Noah and May stepped inside, the air changed. It was cooler, slightly damp, and carried the faint scent of minerals. Soft echoes of dripping water mixed with distant shuffling, hinting at wild Pokémon lurking deeper within. The light from the entrance barely reached the interior, making the terrain uneven and tricky to navigate.
"This place feels… different," May murmured, hugging her arms.
Noah was already reaching for a Poké Ball. "We'll get used to it."
He released Tide, his Nosepass, onto the rocky ground. The large Rock-type barely reacted at first, simply blinking its unchanging expression as it adjusted to its surroundings.
"Tide, go eat."
The moment the command was given, Tide's stone-like body hummed, its magnetic pull activating as it moved sluggishly toward a mineral-rich patch of rock. Unlike before, where Noah had mistakenly fed him expensive but ineffective food, Tide now had a direct source of nourishment.
May watched in fascination as the Nosepass pressed itself against a jagged rock formation, small vibrations indicating it was breaking down and absorbing the minerals. "So, you were right. You weren't feeding him properly before."
Noah crossed his arms. "I learn fast."
With Tide occupied, he turned his attention back to the cave. His goal was clear: train his Pokémon and help them improve.
"Come out."
With a flick of his wrist, he released Sage, Grimm, and Aeris onto the rocky floor.
Aeris, his Pidgey, immediately stretched her wings and let out a small cry, shaking off the cave's cool atmosphere. Sage, his Dottler, landed quietly, its glowing spots flickering slightly. Grimm, his Impidimp, grinned mischievously, his large eyes gleaming in the dim lighting.
"I'll battle whatever comes first," Noah stated. "You handle what you can."
May hesitated before nodding. "Alright, but if something strong shows up, I want your help."
Noah smirked. "Then don't lose."
May huffed but said nothing as she clutched Torchic's Poké Ball.
Suddenly, a rustling sound came from deeper in the cave. Noah turned sharply, his instincts kicking in. From the shadows, small shapes moved—several Aron and a Zubat emerged, their eyes gleaming as they noticed the trainers.
Noah didn't waste time. "Sage, Struggle Bug."
Sage's body glowed briefly before releasing a pulse of green energy, striking the Aron closest to it. The small Steel-type recoiled but quickly recovered, its metallic hide barely dented.
"Not enough damage," Noah noted. "Again."
Sage repeated the attack, this time layering Sticky Web beneath the Aron to slow it down.
Meanwhile, Grimm had already vanished into the darkness, only to reappear behind a Zubat and smack it with a sly grin, forcing it to retreat deeper into the cave.
Aeris took to the air, flapping her wings and unleashing a Gust that sent several small pebbles flying.
May, watching Noah's calm coordination, gritted her teeth. "I can do this too!"
She sent out Torchic, who chirped in determination. "Use Ember on that Aron!"
A burst of fire shot out, but the Aron barely flinched as it shook off the attack with its sturdy armor.
May's eyes widened. "It's tough…"
Before she could react, something moved in the shadows behind her. A Mawile stepped forward, its steel jaws gleaming in the dim light. Unlike the other Pokémon, this one wasn't running—it was watching.
May turned around and gasped. "A Mawile!"
Noah glanced at the small but intimidating Pokémon. "It's sizing us up."
Before May could say anything else, the Mawile suddenly lunged at Torchic with a Bite attack!
"Dodge it!" May cried.
Torchic barely managed to jump aside, but Mawile was relentless. It moved with surprising speed, its large steel jaws snapping shut dangerously close to May's Pokémon.
May gritted her teeth. "I'm catching this one."
Noah watched with interest. "Go on"
May focused, trying to think of a strategy. "Torchic, Sand Attack!"
Torchic kicked up dirt, blinding Mawile for a brief second. May saw her opening. "Now, Ember!"
A small flame shot forward, striking Mawile's side. The Fairy-type hissed but barely staggered—it was clearly tougher than it looked. Then, Mawile suddenly glowed with energy, using Iron Defense to further strengthen its already formidable armor.
May clenched her fists. "It's getting even harder to damage!"
Mawile didn't waste time. With a sharp movement, it rushed forward and headbutted Torchic with astonishing force. Torchic skidded back, barely staying on its feet.
May panicked. "Torchic, are you okay?" The Fire-type chirped weakly, but it refused to back down.
Noah observed silently. Mawile was stronger than the other wild Pokémon they had fought—it was not only fighting back, but it was actively challenging May's leadership.
"If you don't fight properly, it won't accept you," he stated.
May turned to him. "What do you mean?"
"It's testing you," Noah said simply. "If you don't beat it convincingly, it won't respect you, even if you catch it."
May swallowed. "Then well-being win properly."
She took a deep breath. "Torchic, use Peck—aim for its legs!"
Torchic dashed forward, its beak glowing, and struck Mawile's legs instead of its hardened body. The attack actually made Mawile stumble slightly.
"Again!"
Torchic repeated the attack, striking at weaker points, forcing Mawile to move defensively.
Noah nodded in approval. She was adapting.
Mawile, realizing it was starting to lose ground, let out an angry cry and attempted another Bite attack.
"Dodge and Ember, now!"
Torchic leapt to the side and unleashed a stronger Ember than before, this time hitting Mawile's exposed side. The steel-type staggered backward, its energy clearly drained.
May grabbed a Poké Ball. "Alright, this is it!"
She threw the ball at Mawile, watching as it absorbed the wild Pokémon in a flash of light.
The ball hit the ground. It shook once.
Twice.
Three times.
Then—click.
May exhaled in relief. "I… I caught it."
She picked up the Poké Ball, smiling. "I have a Mawile now."
Noah glanced at her. "It's going to be a handful."
May tilted her head. "Huh?"
The moment she released Mawile from its Poké Ball, the Steel/Fairy-type crossed its arms and stared up at May, eyes filled with clear defiance. It huffed, turning its head away as if saying, 'You're not my boss.'
May sweatdropped. "Uh…not very friendly, huh?"
Noah smirked. "Told you."
May sighed. "Great. I caught a problem child."
Noah turned away. "You'll deal with it."
May puffed her cheeks. "You could at least help a little!"
Noah didn't answer. Instead, he looked deeper into the cave, his mind already on the next step of his training.