Chapter 45: Ilex Forest
After leaving the battlefield, Ash and Misty regrouped with Brock, who had been busy observing the battles earlier.
Learning that Brock wasn't ready to leave yet, Ash and Misty decided to explore Azalea Town on their own.
They spent the day enjoying the town's attractions before returning to the Pokémon Center as the sun began to set.
Brock had returned to the Pokémon Center earlier in the afternoon. When he didn't find Ash and Misty there, he assumed they were out exploring and didn't worry.
Once reunited, the three shared a meal, rested, and prepared for the next leg of their journey: Goldenrod City.
To reach Goldenrod City, they needed to pass through the Ilex Forest, a vast and famous woodland in the Johto region.
Much like the Viridian Forest in Kanto, Ilex Forest was known for its dense vegetation and diverse population of Bug-type Pokémon.
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The next morning, after restocking their supplies at the market, Ash and his team set off. By noon, they arrived at the outskirts of Ilex Forest.
Since there was still plenty of daylight, they decided to set up camp outside the forest and spend the rest of the day on training.
The night passed uneventfully, and by morning, the group was ready to enter the forest.
Ilex Forest was eerily reminiscent of Viridian Forest. Its dense canopy allowed little sunlight to penetrate, casting the forest in perpetual twilight.
This darkness made it an ideal habitat for many Bug-type Pokémon. Along the way, Ash spotted common Pokémon like Caterpie and Weedle, as well as Johto-native species like Hoothoot and Spinarak.
Grass-type Pokémon, including a few Oddish, were also present, though their numbers were sparse.
As the group ventured deeper, they discovered that Ilex Forest was not just a wilderness.
Nestled within its depths was a small village where travelers could rest. On the third day of their journey, they arrived at this village.
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In the village's Pokémon Center, Misty reveled in the comfort of air conditioning. "I think they should build a place like this in Viridian Forest too," she said, lounging in relief after days of trekking through the dim forest.
However, Misty's mood soured when she noticed Brock playing with his new Pokémon, Pineco, in their shared dormitory.
"Brock! Could you stop messing around with Pineco here? If it uses Self-Destruct and damages something, we'll have to pay for it!"
Brock waved her concerns away. "Don't worry, Pineco's much calmer now. It won't explode unless provoked."
Pineco, a Bug-type Pokémon that resembled a pinecone, had a temperamental disposition.
It often resorted to Self-Destruct when upset, a behavior that had tested Brock's patience since he caught it.
Thankfully, after a day of bonding, Pineco had grown more docile and seemed to accept its new trainer.
The group rested in the village for a day before resuming their journey. After six days in total, they finally emerged from Ilex Forest.
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"Finally! Clear skies!" Misty exclaimed, spinning around with Togepi in her arms. The sight of the bright blue sky and open plains beyond the forest was a welcome relief after nearly a week in the shadowy woods.
Ash and Brock shared her excitement. While the forest had its charm, the constant dimness had taken its toll. The open environment felt refreshing.
During their time in Ilex Forest, Ash's Pokémon had made noticeable progress. Chikorita, in particular, had grown significantly, reaching the Bronze level.
Although it hadn't evolved yet, its behavior suggested that evolution wasn't far off. Meanwhile, Lapras had also entered the Silver level, solidifying its strength.
Misty's Lapras, though slightly behind, had made considerable improvements as well.
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Brock consulted the map and pointed out a small detour. "The closest town from here is Leaf Town, just a bit off the route to Goldenrod City. We could stop there to rest before continuing."
Ash nodded. "Sounds good. Let's head there."
Misty cheered, her enthusiasm renewed by the prospect of a proper rest stop.
Following Brock's guidance, the group reached Leaf Town by mid-afternoon. The coastal town was bustling with activity, far busier than they had expected.
"Why are there so many people here?" Misty wondered as they made their way to the Pokémon Center.
Curious, Ash asked the staff at the reception desk. "Excuse me, is it always this crowded in Leaf Town?"
The staff member smiled and explained, "Not usually. Tomorrow, Leaf Town will host a Pokémon Swap Meet, which has drawn in trainers and collectors from all over. There's also a Tauros Competition scheduled, which is adding to the excitement."
Ash's interest was piqued. "A Tauros Competition?"
"Yes," the staff member replied, returning Ash's Pokédex after completing the check-in. "It's a local event. The prizes aren't extravagant, but it's a lot of fun, and it attracts a decent audience."
Ash's eyes lit up. "That sounds perfect!"
Misty raised an eyebrow. "Another competition? What's so great about this one?"
Ash grinned. "Every competition is a chance to grow and gain exposure. Plus, with so many trainers here, it's a great opportunity to showcase my Pokémon and strengthen my brand."
Seeing his determination, Misty shrugged. "Well, if it means you're motivated, I guess it's worth it."
With the Tauros Competition and Pokémon Swap Meet on the horizon, Ash and his friends decided to make the most of their time in Leaf Town before continuing their journey to Goldenrod City.
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