To activate the Ilex Forest shrine in *Pokémon Crystal* or its remakes, you need Spiky-eared Pichu in your party. A Pikachu or Raichu that evolved from that special Pichu will work too.
What Pokémon can you catch in Ilex Forest?
Ilex Forest is packed with Pokémon like Caterpie, Weedle, Pikachu, Clefairy, Exeggcute, and Heracross.
Since *Pokémon Crystal* and its remakes (*HeartGold* and *SoulSilver*), these Pokémon pop up regularly in the thick underbrush. Heracross stands out—it’s rare and brutally strong in battle. The forest’s mix of environments also makes it perfect for Bug-type trainers grinding levels.
Who protects Ilex Forest?
Celebi is the mythical guardian of Ilex Forest, tied to the shrine and its ancient role as a sacred site.
This Psychic/Grass-type Pokémon can slip through time itself. In *Pokémon Crystal*, the GS Ball is the key to meeting Celebi at the shrine. Across Pokémon media, the forest is treated like hallowed ground, which only strengthens Celebi’s reputation as its protector.
What’s the GS Ball?
The GS Ball is a special gold-and-silver Poké Ball from *Pokémon Crystal*, meant for the Ilex Forest shrine to summon Celebi.
Its design mirrors *Gold* and *Silver*, so the “GS” likely stands for those titles. The original *Crystal* game never let players use it, but the anime gave it real purpose by unlocking the shrine’s event.
Did Ash ever meet his dad?
Ash never meets his father in the anime—only passing mentions exist, like his dad starting his Trainer journey young.
That unnamed dad gets a quick shout-out in *Pokémon Diamond and Pearl* when Ash casually drops the fact. The omission keeps the focus on Ash’s self-made path and independence as a Trainer.
Who’s Ash’s best girl?
Most fans agree Misty is Ash’s most important female companion, thanks to their mentor-ally dynamic.
Her Gym Leader gig in Cerulean City and her no-nonsense attitude made her unforgettable in the original series. Watching her soften from rival to loyal partner won hearts. May, Dawn, and Serena all have their moments, but Misty’s role at the start cements her status as the top pick.
Did Lillie have a crush on Ash?
Lillie drops subtle but steady hints she’s into Ash throughout *Sun and Moon*.
Blushing, worrying over his safety, even giggling at his silly photos—these little moments read as affection. Her shy nature keeps things ambiguous, but gifts like the Z-Ring suggest she feels more than just friendship.
Does Ash have feelings for Serena?
Ash cares about Serena deeply but treats her as a close friend, not a romantic partner.
He backs her 100% when she leaves for Hoenn, showing real care without any romantic spark. Ash’s obliviousness to crushes keeps their bond platonic. Serena’s focus on performance and Ash’s drive to compete keep them as lifelong pals instead of a couple.
Why did Serena leave Ash?
Serena left to sharpen her Pokémon skills in Hoenn after her old coordinator, Palermo, suggested it.
In *Till We Compete Again!*, she tells Ash at the airport she’ll return stronger. That split marks her growth—she’s striking out on her own to master her craft. Hoenn’s competitive scene gives her the perfect proving ground.
Did Ash marry Serena?
Yep, Ash and Serena tie the knot in the *Sun & Moon* finale, “Alola to New Adventures!”
The wedding happens in Alola with Professor Kukui officiating. Friends and family celebrate as the couple vows forever. It’s one of the most emotional moments in the series, proving how far they’ve come together.
Why did Ash marry Serena?
Ash and Serena married because they’d built an unshakable bond over years of shared adventures in Kalos and Alola.
What started as friendship grew into a lifelong promise. Serena’s growth as a performer and Ash’s quest to become a Master pulled them closer. Their wedding celebrates dreams they chased side by side.
Why did Serena cut her hair?
Serena chopped her hair as a symbolic fresh start after saying goodbye to Ash before heading to Hoenn.
In *Pokémon XY&Z*, the haircut lines up with Eastern traditions where short hair signals renewal and confidence. It’s her visual cue that she’s embracing change and stepping into her next chapter as a solo Trainer.
Edited and fact-checked by the FixAnswer editorial team.
