Ash trailed Gingka and Madoka into a compact but high-tech workshop that was full of parts, tools, and computer monitors with Beyblade information. The metallic and oil smell in the air was unmistakable proof that this was where strong Beyblades were crafted and perfected.
Madoka pushed her glasses up her nose and pointed to a workbench covered in Beyblade components. "Okay, Ash. Because you're a beginner at Beyblade, you require something that suits your style. Do you have any specific strengths or tactics from your Pokémon fights that could be applied?"
Ash pondered. "Well, my Pokémon battles are really about speed, agility, and finishing with big-hitting attacks. If I had to pick something, I'd want it to be fast but also able to withstand hits and strike back."
Madoka smiled. "That gives me a good idea of what you're looking for. Let's go find a Beyblade that will fit you!"
She started going through different pieces, sometimes throwing a look Ash's way like she was intellectually pairing pieces to his personality. She put down three different components of Beyblades in front of him within a few minutes. "These are pieces which focus on speed, agility, and strong counterattacks. You decide how your Beyblade should appear and what it should be able to do."
Ash examined the pieces intently, his resolve building. His gaze settled on a blue energy ring with sharp, ninja-like borders. It brought him to mind of one of his best allies—Greninja.
"Whoooaaa! This one is like Greninja!" he said in awe.
Madoka smiled. "That's the Storm Ninja energy ring. It's noted for quick movements and surprise bursts of attack strength. If you like it, we can construct your Bey around it."
Ash nodded excitedly. "Definitely!"
Gingka smiled. "Excellent decision! That section's all about being unpredictable. Opponents won't be able to read your moves!"
Madoka went on putting together Ash's Beyblade, choosing a lightweight yet durable fusion wheel for mobility and an attack-oriented performance tip to guarantee aggressive action. After that, she handed it over to Ash.
"Here it is—your own Beyblade: Storm Greninja! It's a balance-type Beyblade with a strong bias towards speed and counterattacks."
Ash was holding Storm Greninja in his hands, getting an unusual but comforting feeling of connection. It felt similar to holding a Poké Ball—like this Beyblade just waited for him to awaken its full potential.
"This is great! I can't wait to try it out!" Ash exclaimed.
Gingka grinned. "Well, you don't have to wait long. How about a fight right now?"
A new voice interrupted Ash's acceptance before it was given.
"I'll battle him!" said a boy with green hair and a confident grin. He walked up to them, holding a Beyblade of his own.
Madoka recognized him immediately. "Kenta!"
Kenta nodded. "I was over there and saw you guys going into the shop, and I heard they were starting a new Beyblade player. I had to see what all the hubbub was about! So Ash, how about it? A match to see what you and Storm Greninja have got?"
Ash smiled. "You're on! Let's do it!"
They headed to a stadium nearby outside the shop. A small group of fans congregated, eager to see the new Blader play.
Kenta held up his Beyblade, a green, beastly design. "This is my Flame Sagittario—a stamina-type Beyblade! Let's see if you can take it!"
Ash set Storm Greninja onto his launcher. His heart raced in anticipation. This was similar to a Pokémon battle—only in place of calling out moves, it was all strategy and momentum.
Madoka held up her hand. "Okay! Prepare!"
Ash and Kenta prepared, launchers at the ready.
"3… 2… 1… LET IT RIP!"
Both Beyblades blasted into the stadium, whirling at dizzying velocities. Sagittario grabbed the center right away, while Storm Greninja swooped around the stadium in tight, erratic courses.
"Whoa, it's fast!" someone in the crowd exclaimed.
Kenta grinned. "Speed's not enough! Sagittario, stand your ground!"
Storm Greninja charged towards Sagittario, going for a swift attack. But at the last moment, Kenta's Bey turned a little, deflecting the attack.
Ash squinted. "Okay, let's do this another way! Storm Greninja, use your quickness to gain speed!"
The blue Beyblade darted back and forth, hitting the stadium walls and gaining speed. It was so fast that it was difficult to follow.
Kenta frowned. "What's he doing…?"
Gingka smiled. "He's already adjusting!"
Storm Greninja veered suddenly and hit Sagittario from the side, sending it off balance.
"No way!" Kenta exclaimed.
Ash pumped his fist. "Alright, time for the finisher! Storm Greninja, Water Shuriken Strike!"
His Beyblade whirled even faster, generating a cutting wind around it. With a final surge of speed, Storm Greninja struck Sagittario, blasting it out of the stadium.
The crowd cheered. "Whoa! He won!"
Kenta retrieved his Beyblade, his eyes wide before he smiled. "That was awesome, Ash! Your Bey is really something!"
Ash grinned. "Thanks! But I still have a lot to learn. This is just the beginning!"
Gingka patted him on the back. "Not bad for your first battle. Keep training, and you'll be a real contender in no time!"
Ash gazed at Storm Greninja with eagerness. This was a whole new type of battle, and he was eager to throw himself into it.