Although none of their Pokémon knew the move [Flash], Charmeleon's tail flame served as an adequate light source to illuminate the cave.
For safety, Satoshi released all four of his Pokémon. Charmeleon stayed in the middle to light the path, Riolu took point as the vanguard, using its waveguide abilities to scout ahead, and Grovyle brought up the rear to guard against potential ambushes. Frogadier and Misty's Staryu walked beside them, ready to handle emergencies.
"Misty, remember, when we encounter Koga, the Team Rocket Executive, we'll test his strength with a few moves, but retreat immediately. We can't afford to let ourselves get surrounded," Satoshi warned firmly.
"Koga is dangerous, and if we're not careful, the sheer number of Team Rocket members in this cave could spell disaster for us."
Satoshi's tone was serious. He remembered from the plot in his previous life that Koga, even without using his strongest Pokémon, was incredibly formidable. Misty's impulsiveness had led her to charge at him, only to be defeated in a single round. It was a sobering memory, and Satoshi didn't want to risk their safety on a foolhardy gamble.
"I understand, Satoshi. Don't worry—I'm not going to throw my life away," Misty reassured him. She appreciated his concern and wasn't the type to dismiss sound advice. She knew he had her best interests in mind, which only deepened her respect for him.
Satoshi felt more assured seeing Misty's composed response. He turned to his Pokémon, using the power of Viridian to silently communicate. "Be ready to retreat at any moment," he instructed.
His Pokémon, understanding the gravity of the situation, nodded in unison.
Misty, observing this interaction, couldn't help but marvel. "You and your Pokémon share such a deep bond. Are you sure you're just a Rookie Trainer? I've seen experienced Trainers with less understanding than you."
Satoshi smirked. "I only started my journey yesterday, Professor Oak can confirm it. I just walked faster than most people."
"Yesterday? You started adventuring yesterday?" Misty's eyes widened in disbelief. "Did you already have these Pokémon before you started traveling?"
"Nope," Satoshi replied nonchalantly. "Charmeleon was given to me as a Charmander by Professor Oak, and the rest I caught within the past day and a half."
Misty stared at him, slack-jawed. "Are you kidding me? You raised four strong Pokémon in less than two days?"
Satoshi simply smiled. His achievements were indeed extraordinary, but he saw no point in over-explaining.
Misty, seeing the confidence in his expression, couldn't help but believe him. "A day and a half… you're either a prodigy or a legend in the making," she thought.
The realization hit Misty hard. By involving Satoshi in her quest, she might have inadvertently placed a target on his back. Team Rocket wasn't an enemy to be taken lightly, and their retaliation could make Satoshi's future much more difficult.
The guilt gnawed at her. After a brief internal struggle, Misty made up her mind.
"Satoshi, I've been thinking. Maybe we should—"
"Shh," Satoshi interrupted, his expression suddenly serious. "Something's wrong."
Misty fell silent, confused but alert.
Riolu, scouting ahead, had sent a warning through its waveguide abilities. A large group of people was approaching their position at high speed.
"Misty, prepare for a fight," Satoshi instructed. "Riolu spotted a group heading straight for us. We'll make contact soon."
Misty sighed, her earlier resolve to leave fading. There was no avoiding it now. Setting her regret aside, she steeled herself for battle and prepared her Pokémon.
The fight was coming to them, whether they wanted it or not.
End of the Chapter.
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