Chapter 201: To Cinnabar Island

Early the next morning, after their usual morning exercises, Ash and his group packed their belongings, left the Pokémon Center, and headed to the harbor in the southern part of Fuchsia City. Their destination was Cinnabar Island, and they planned to take a boat to get there.

There were three possible ways to reach Cinnabar Island.

The first option was to fly directly, which was the fastest and most convenient method. However, the downside was that they wouldn't get to enjoy the journey or experience the sights along the way.

The second option was to take a boat. This method required nearly a full day and night of travel, but it provided the opportunity to admire the ocean scenery. Additionally, the ship would stop at a small island for two hours during the journey, offering a chance to explore.

The third option was the most challenging—crossing the sea using their own Pokémon. While this was an adventurous approach, it was also the most dangerous. The sea was home to many Pokémon, some of which could be unpredictable or even aggressive, making accidents more likely.

After considering their options, Ash and his friends decided on the second method. It was the safest and also allowed them to enjoy the trip. Plus, the experience of spending a night on a ship was something they had never done before.

A Discount for Trainers

"Luckily, since we're trainers, the S.S. Ticket only costs 30% of the original price," Ash said as they exited the ticket office.

Even though his monthly allowance was quite generous, Ash had always been frugal. He preferred to save money and invest it in training and caring for his Pokémon.

"This is one of the many benefits that the Pokémon League provides for trainers," Brock explained while holding the tickets. "For us, this kind of discount is really important."

With their tickets in hand, the trio walked toward the boarding area. At the entrance, a staff member was manually checking tickets. Although technology was advancing rapidly, ticket verification was still done by hand in this era. Within a few years, automated systems would likely take over.

"There are a lot more people here than I expected," Ash remarked as they stepped onto the ship.

Considering Cinnabar Island's popularity as a tourist destination and a place for Pokémon battles, it made sense that many trainers and travelers would be on board.

Instead of lingering in the crowded lobby, they asked a staff member for directions to their room. Once they found it, they immediately put down their luggage. Since they would be on the ship for nearly a day and a night, getting settled in was a priority.

Blastoise Island

"We'll be stopping at an island called Blastoise Island for two hours during the journey," Brock said as he flipped through a travel brochure he had picked up at the ticket office. "It's one of the highlights of this route."

"Blastoise Island?" Misty's eyes lit up as she carefully held the Pokémon egg she had been tending to. "You mean the island shaped like a Blastoise?!"

Ash was also curious. He vaguely remembered an episode in the anime featuring an island related to Blastoise, but he couldn't recall the details.

Brock shook his head and turned the brochure toward them. "No, it's not shaped like Blastoise. It's an island inhabited by the Blastoise family. The Pokémon League has even developed it as a habitat for wild Squirtle, and it serves as a location where Rookie Trainers can receive their Squirtle."

Misty immediately perked up at the mention of Squirtle. She imagined herself surrounded by a group of Squirtle and Wartortle, and a feeling of pure joy washed over her.

"So... does that mean my Wartortle came from Blastoise Island?" Ash asked, a little surprised by the possibility.

"Probably not," Brock said after thinking for a moment. "Your Wartortle wasn't obtained from a League distribution program. You caught it in the wild during your journey, so it may not have come from Blastoise Island."

"That makes sense," Ash nodded in agreement.

As they continued chatting, an announcement played over the ship's speakers, informing passengers that the vessel was about to depart. The broadcast reassured everyone that they could move around freely and enjoy the amenities onboard. Moments later, they felt the ship begin to move, and through the window, they watched as the Fuchsia City harbor slowly faded into the distance.

Life on the Ship

Once they had settled into their room, the three decided to explore the ship.

"I heard there's a battle deck where trainers can have friendly matches," Ash said excitedly.

"That sounds like a great way to pass the time," Misty agreed.

"But before that, let's check out the dining hall," Brock suggested. "We might not get another chance to eat properly until we reach Blastoise Island."

They made their way to the dining hall, which was filled with trainers and travelers. Many were discussing their upcoming battles, while others were simply enjoying their meals. Ash and his friends found a table and ordered a simple but filling meal.

As they ate, they overheard a conversation at a nearby table.

"Did you hear?" a young trainer said. "There's been a rumor about a mysterious Pokémon sighting near Blastoise Island. Some people say it's a rare Water-type that hasn't been documented yet!"

Ash's interest was immediately piqued. "A mysterious Pokémon near Blastoise Island? That sounds exciting!"

"Could just be a rumor," Brock said. "But if it's true, it might be worth investigating when we get there."

Misty, always eager to see new Water-type Pokémon, nodded enthusiastically. "If it's a Water-type, I have to see it!"

A Battle on Deck

After finishing their meal, they headed to the battle deck. There were already several trainers engaged in battles, their Pokémon clashing under the bright sunlight.

Ash spotted a familiar face among the trainers. It was Ryo, a fellow trainer they had met earlier in their journey.

"Ryo!" Ash called out.

Ryo turned and grinned. "Ash! Fancy meeting you here. Are you up for a battle?"

"You bet!" Ash responded, stepping onto the battlefield.

As the battle commenced, the ship sailed steadily toward Blastoise Island, carrying them toward the next exciting chapter of their adventure.