Final Battle: Ash vs. Lance
Disclaimer: I don't own Pokémon.
Lance, the Champion of Johto, was sitting in his room inside his rented apartment going over the four battles between Ash and the Elite Four. Lance was marveled at Ash's battling style; there was no set pattern. It was different for every battle and every match and since there was no set pattern Lance couldn't predict Ash's battling style.
"Looks like I've got my work cut out for me" Lance said to himself with a small smile. He made sure his strongest Pokémon were with him before driving to Silver Stadium.
SCENE CHANGE
Meanwhile on Route to Silver stadium as we speak were none other than Professor Oak and Delia Ketchum. After not hearing of Ash for more than a year they were surprised to get a call from him and the shocking news that came with his call threw them for a loop.
FLASHBACK
In Professor Oak's laboratory the old professor was doing some research on some Hoenn Region Pokémon when Tracey told him he had a phone call from Ash. Bewildered, Professor Oak discontinued his research for the moment before going inside to see what Ash needed to speak with him about.
"Hello Ash" Professor Oak greeted once he saw Ash's face on the screen "I haven't heard from you in a long time."
"Hello Professor Oak" Ash greeted "Yeah sorry, I haven't had enough time to contact anyone since I've been training for the Elite Four Challenge."
"Speaking of the Elite Four" Professor Oak said "How goes your training? It's been almost two years now and I bet by the end of this year you might be ready to take them on."
"Yeah… about that" Ash said slowly. "I've already taken the challenge."
"You what" Professor Oak nearly shouted. "My dear boy I know you have confidence, but this is pushing it."
Ash could understand his reaction "Yeah I know, but my training's paid off. I went through all of the Elite Four and managed to defeat them all. In fact I just finished my battle with Karen and I'm calling from the Pokémon Center in Silver Town. I'm facing off against Lance tomorrow."
Professor Oak was shell shocked. Here was a sixteen year old about to face the Regional Champion and not only that, but it was Lance who was the strongest trainer in all of Kanto and Johto. Lance was actually the second youngest Champion ever having gotten the title and position when he was twenty three and held it for over seven years undefeated. The only Champion who got the title younger than Lance was Cynthia at the age of twenty two and she's held her title for as long as Lance has.
"Well Ash if what you say is true then I'm afraid I must alert your mother and we'll both be driving down to Silver Stadium tomorrow" Professor Oak said with such a serious face that it was almost laughable.
Ash chuckled "I was counting on that" he said sheepishly. "Well I got to go and prepare to face Lance. I heard from Karen that the last challenger who got to face Lance lost without defeating a single Pokémon."
"Yes it would do well for you to prepare yourself" Professor Oak said "Goodbye and good luck Ash." Professor Oak hung up before phoning Delia and filling her in on the details. She was overly excited and grabbed her camera. Once he hung up the phone Professor Oak called out "Tracey."
"Yeah" Tracey said walking into the room.
"I'm heading for Silver Stadium tomorrow morning; I'm leaving you in charge of the Lab" Professor Oak said. "You already know what to do and tell any researchers that come by that I'm away at the moment and to come back the next day."
"Got it" Tracey said before going back to work.
"Oh this place would be so unorganized if it wasn't for Tracey" Professor Oak said with a smile before going to pack up.
END FLASHBACK
They arrived at Silver Stadium and had proceeded into the stadium and it wasn't long until they found the others as well "So you're all here as well" Professor Oak said.
"Mrs. Ketchum, Professor Oak" Misty said surprised "What are you doing here?"
"Ash gave me a call last night and told me how far he'd gotten" Professor Oak said. "I had to come here for myself to see this and Delia wants to see her son battle, of course."
"Well you got here just in time" Brock said.
"Folks we're ready to start the final match of the Elite Four Competition" the MC shouted making the crowd roar. Professor Oak and Delia sat down in their seats. "This competition started out with over 100 trainers and now only 1 is left to shoulder all of their determination. Let us welcome the challenger; a master of Electric Pokémon Ash Ketchum."
The crowd cheered as Ash walked out into the field with his Raichu walking right beside him. Ash had a confident look on his face and it was clear he was trying to hold back a goofy grin. The reason was simple.
FLASHBACK: 5 MINUTES AGO
Ash breathed in and out trying to steady his nerves. He was about to battle against a Regional Champion and he had to calm himself down because he didn't want to come so far only to fail again. He had enough of that in the past.
"Ash" a voice called. Ash turned around only to find blond hair encompassing his vision. He felt slender arms wrapped around his shoulders and a petite body pressed against his.
"Elesa" Ash questioned. The woman pulled back and indeed it was the beautiful Elesa "What are you doing here in Johto?"
"To watch you compete of course" Elesa said as though it was obvious. "I saw your battle with Karen; it was electrifying."
Ash chuckled at the pun "Yeah; she was a tough battler. Thanks to Thundurus I was able to win."
"Are you going to use Thundurus again" Elesa asked.
Ash shook his head "No, I don't know if Lance has a strategy to counter Thundurus. I've got a whole new arsenal that will blow him away."
"I can't wait to see it" Elesa grinned before reaching up and kissing him on the cheek "Good luck Ash. Win the match and there'll be more where that came from." Ash's face went bright red while Raichu was trying to hold in the snickers that threatened to burst out.
END FLASHBACK
Ash felt really confident if you hadn't guessed it by now "And Ash's opponent" the MC continued. "He's one of the youngest champions ever. Seven years have passed since his ascension to the title of Champion; here he is Dragon Master Lance." Lance walked out into the field with his flaming red hair standing out and his long cape blowing in the wind. The crowd was wild, especially the girls with almost all of them having hearts in their eyes.
Ash and Lance walked to the middle of the field and seemed to stare for a few seconds before smiling and grasping hands with each other. "You've come a long way Ash; I look forward to our battle."
"Thanks Lance, I look forward to it too" Ash said "May the best trainer win."
"I intend to" Lance said back and they both smirked before walking back to their sides of the field. The stadium was silent waiting for the match to begin. The tension was thick as this was sure to be the most electrifying battle of the century.
The ref walked up "Like the previous battles this will be a six on six elimination match. The battle will conclude when either side loses all six Pokémon. Only the challenger is allowed to substitute Pokémon; you may begin."
"Charizard I choose you" Lance called sending out a large Charizard. Charizard roared and launched a large jet of flames into the air.
Charizard appeared in Lance's first slot "And Lance chooses to send out his Charizard. Last time we saw Lance battle his Charizard defeated all six of the challenger's Pokémon. Let's see if Ash will be different."
Ash pulled out a Pokeball "Magnezone battle time." In a flash the magnet area Pokémon appeared on the field and in Ash's first slot.
"And Ash shows off a new Pokémon" the MC called "Let's see if this Pokémon is strong enough to combat against Lance's Charizard."
"Why would Ash choose a steel type to go up against a fire type like Charizard" Max asked.
"Don't forget Charizard is also part flying as well, which is weak against electrical attacks" Brock said.
"Magnezone flash cannon" Ash called. Magnezone fired off a large flash cannon at Charizard.
"Block it" Lance said. Charizard crossed its arms and blocked the flash cannon before dissipating it was a flex of its arms.
'Good defense' Ash thought "Alright then iron head." Magnezone charged forward with a silver glow surrounding it and was about to plow into Charizard.
"Block it and use focus punch" Lance said. Charizard, once again, blocked the iron head and punched Magnezone away 'What is he doing; steel moves barely have an effect on Charizard, what's he planning?'
Ash then had a smirk on his face "Magnet bomb" Ash said. Magnezone launched a steel bullet attack from one of its arms.
'Another steel type move' Lance thought "Block it and use flamethrower." Charizard blocked the attack again before launching a large flamethrower.
"Perfect, now Wild Charge" Ash said calmly. Lance's eyes went slightly wide realizing he just fell for Ash's trap. Magnezone surrounded itself in electricity and was able to go through the flamethrower with minimum damage and hit Charizard hard making the large Pokémon cry out "Now thunderbolt" Ash said.
The thunderbolt was like a hard slap in the face or in this case like attaching electric wires to your nipples. Charizard gave a loud shout as the electricity coursed through the large Pokémon.
"Charizard take flight" Lance called. Charizard flew high up into the air "Now use twister." Charizard flapped its wings and launched a large twister at Magnezone.
"Hop into it Magnezone" Ash called. Magnezone obeyed Ash and jumped into the twister. Now Lance was really getting thrown for a loop at all of Ash's unorthodox strategies as the twister actually carried Magnezone upwards towards Charizard. "Good Magnezone now use zap cannon" Ash called. Charizard was nailed with a super effective zap cannon that not only damaged it, but also paralyzed it "Now bring it to the ground with wild charge" Ash called. Magnezone surrounded itself with electricity and nailed Charizard sending the fire/flying Pokémon down to the ground.
Magnezone flew off of Charizard and once the dust settled it revealed that the flame Pokémon was unconscious. The ref raised the green flag "Charizard is unable to battle; Magnezone wins." Charizard's icon went dark signifying defeat leaving Lance with Five Pokémon.
"A shocking defeat leaves Lance down one Pokémon" the MC roared as the crowd cheered. Lance recalled his Charizard.
Lance mentally cursed himself 'He caught me off guard with those strategies, but that will not happen again' he thought. "Gyarados I choose you" Lance shouted sending out his red Gyarados who appeared with a roar. The red Gyarados appeared in Lance's second icon "Gyarados use hyper beam." Gyarados fired a large hyper beam at Magnezone.
"Zap cannon" Ash called. Magnezone launched a large zap cannon that connected with the hyper beam, but the hyper beam was much more powerful and hit Magnezone sending the magnet area Pokémon flying. "Magnezone flip and use charge beam" Ash called.
"Gyarados dodge and use hydro pump" Lance called. Gyarados swerved to the side and dodged the charge beam before launching a large wave of water at Magnezone that connected with the magnet area Pokémon. "Now iron tail" Lance called.
"Magnet Bomb" Ash countered. Magnezone's forearm glowed before they both collided with each other. Magnezone was thrown from the smoke and smashed into the wall. "Magnezone, no" Ash shouted. Magnezone was out cold on the ground.
The ref raised the red flag "Magnezone is unable to battle; Gyarados is the winner." Magnezone's icon went dark signifying defeat leaving Ash with five Pokémon.
"Well that one went down quick" Max said dryly.
"It's to be expected" Professor Oak said.
"I agree" Volkner said. "Ash caught Lance off guard with those moves and it would have caught anyone off guard, but now that Lance has wised up to the moves he's not going to make the same mistakes. This match has gotten a lot harder for Ash."
"Magnezone return" Ash said "You were great, take a long rest. Raichu, battle time." Raichu nodded and raced out into the field and into Ash's second slot.
"Gyarados use ice beam" Lance called. Gyarados launched a large ice beam at Raichu.
"Use agility to dodge" Ash called. Raichu swerved from side to side avoiding the ice beam before zooming around Gyarados confusing the atrocious Pokémon. "Now use quick attack" Ash called Raichu stopped and slammed directly into Gyarados.
Gyarados roared "Gyarados use iron tail" Lance called. Gyarados' tail glowed and smashed before smashing it directly into Raichu sending the Mouse Pokémon flying.
"Thunderbolt let's go" Ash called. Raichu launched a large thunderbolt that nailed Gyarados causing ultra-effective damage thanks to Gyarados' 4x weakness to electric attacks.
"Now that'll cause some real damage" Misty said.
"Good Raichu return" Ash called. Raichu ran back to Ash and the icon dimmed.
"Return" Lance said confused.
"Why would Ash return Raichu, it was doing great" Max wondered.
Volkner grinned "Oh I know what he's about to do. Don't blink or you'll miss it." The others gave him a confused look before turning back to the field.
"Zapdos battle time" Ash called tossing a Pokeball into the field. A large squawk met everyone's ears before the Legendary thunder bird appeared on the field.
"And Ash's third Pokémon is Zapdos" the MC roared as the crowd cheered.
"A Zapdos" Lance said amazed.
May pulled out her Pokedex "Zapdos, the Electric Pokémon; Zapdos has both electric and flying elements and the flappage of its wings can create lightning" Dexter said.
"Just how powerful has Ash become" Brock said amazed "First he uses Thundurus and now its Zapdos."
"Gyarados use hyper beam" Lance called. Gyarados launched a large hyper beam at Zapdos.
"Zapdos use Giga Impact" Ash called. Zapdos formed purple energy around its body and charged at Gyarados. Zapdos charged into the hyper beam and blew through it and hit Gyarados launching the shiny Pokémon back.
"Gyarados are you okay" Lance called. Gyarados struggled up and managed to get up "Okay now use iron tail."
"Steel wing" Ash countered. Gyarados' tail glowed while Zapdos wing glowed and they both clashed. A clash which Zapdos won and knocked Gyarados back against the stadium wall where it slumped unconscious.
The ref raised the green flag "Gyarados is unable to battle; Zapdos wins." Gyarados' icon went dark signifying defeat. Lance recalled his Pokémon and thanked it for its hard work.
Lance pulled out his next Pokeball "Dragonair I choose you" he shouted releasing the blue serpentine Pokémon onto the field. Dragonair's icon appeared in Lance's third slot.
"Lance's third Pokémon the Legendary Dragonair" the MC called "This Pokémon is incredibly powerful and will prove a tough time for Ash."
"Dragonair use dragon rush" Lance called. Dragonair surrounded itself in sapphire energy before charging at Zapdos.
"Zapdos use Giga Impact" Ash countered. Zapdos surrounded itself in purple energy before charging at Dragonair. Both Pokémon met in a mighty clash before they flew out and faced each other with both of them having taken little damage.
"It can't move now Dragonair, use dragon dance" Lance called. Dragonair gave off a melodious coo and gave a small dance while Zapdos had to recover from the Giga Impact.
Zapdos soon recovered "Zapdos use thunderbolt" Ash called. Zapdos launched a large thunderbolt just as Dragonair finished the dragon dance.
"Dragon Rush let's go" Lance called. Dragonair gained a sapphire glow around its body before charging forward and plowed into the thunderbolt and after a lot of struggling Dragonair managed to break through the thunderbolt and hit Zapdos.
"And Dragonair nails Zapdos with a large thunderbolt" the MC roared excitedly.
"How did Dragon Rush get so powerful" Dawn asked.
"Dragon Dance" Professor Oak exclaimed. "It's a move that increases the speed and attack of the one who performs the move."
"Hang in there Zapdos" Ash called "We've got to use something that will lay out that Dragonair; finish it off with shockwave." Zapdos squawked loudly before launching a wave of blue electricity at Dragonair.
"Fight it with your own electrical prowess" Lance called "Use thunderbolt." Dragonair launched a large thunderbolt at Zapdos and both attacks collided resulting in a large explosion that dealt damage to both parties. Both Dragonair and Zapdos flew high in the air still able to battle "Dragonair use flamethrower" Lance shouted.
Dragonair launched a large flamethrower at Zapdos "Use Ariel Ace to dodge it" Ash countered. Zapdos flew up and dodged the flamethrower before dive bombing Dragonair.
Lance gasped "Quick Dragonair, dragon breath." Dragonair roared before launching a green beam of energy at Zapdos.
"Change Ariel Ace into Sky Attack" Ash called. Zapdos gained a white glow around its body before diving through the dragon breath and nailing Dragonair making the large serpentine Pokémon cry out in pain.
"Ash is matching Lance move for move" Misty said surprised.
"Yes" Volkner said "That's Ash's battling style. No matter what move his opponent uses Ash can find another move to counter it or avoid it at all costs."
Lance growled "Dragonair take it out with Draco Meteor." Dragonair roared loudly as its body glowed orange."
Ash gasped "Zapdos use thunderbolt quickly." Zapdos launched a large thunderbolt and it struck Dragonair, but not quick enough as Dragonair launched a Draco Meteor and it went into the sky before bursting into many meteors and they all dive bombed Zapdos creating a massive explosion. Once the smoke cleared it showed a badly injured Dragonair having taken a lot of damage from the thunderbolt. The smoke cleared on Ash's side showing Zapdos on the ground unmoving.
The ref raised the red flag "Zapdos is unable to battle; Dragonair is the winner." Zapdos' icon went dark signifying defeat as the ground was awed.
"Just when you think Ketchum has a slight lead Lance proves too strong and Zapdos is down for the count" the MC cried. Ash recalled his Zapdos with a whisper of gratitude "Now we wait and see which Pokémon Ketchum will choose next."
"Raichu its battle time" Ash said. Raichu nodded and raced back out into the field and Ash's second icon lit back up.
"And Ash chooses Raichu again" the MC called. "Dragonair has taken quite a bit of damage from Zapdos while Raichu has taken little damage, but we'll have to wait and see how this battle plays out."
"It'll be over soon Dragonair" Lance called "Let's start out with dragon rush." Dragonair gained a sapphire blue glow around its body before charging at Raichu.
"Counter it with volt tackle" Ash said. Raichu charged forward with electricity cackling off his body before both Pokémon collided, but it was still a tie making Ash growl.
"Even severely damaged Dragonair still has a lot of power" Professor Oak noted.
"Raichu use charge beam" Ash called. Raichu launched a yellow beam of electricity at Dragonair.
"Dragonair dodge and use twister" Lance called. Dragonair flew up before twirling its body and launching a twister at Raichu. Raichu was caught in the twister and was throw high into the air before the twister ended and Raichu began plummeting "Now dragon pulse" Lance called.
"Use Volt tackle to get through dragon pulse" Ash called. Raichu flipped in midair before initiating the volt tackle as Dragonair launched the dragon pulse. Raichu was able to low through the dragon pulse "Now Zap Cannon" Ash called. Raichu launched a Zap cannon from his mouth that nailed Dragonair head on.
"Dragonair" Lance cried seeing his beautiful dragon become paralyzed.
"Now Raichu give it a full powered thunderbolt" Ash called. Raichu roared before unleashing a massive thunderbolt that struck Dragonair and lit up the whole stadium making people shield their eyes. Soon the attack died down and when it did it showed a panting Raichu and an out cold Dragonair on the ground.
The ref raised the green flag "Dragonair is unable to battle; Raichu is the winner." Dragonair's icon went dark and cheers filled the stadium.
"With that unbelievable defeat Lance has now lost three Pokémon so we'll be taking a five minute break" the MC announced. Lance recalled his Dragonair while Raichu walked back to Ash.
Lance looked back at Ash 'He's definitely improved beyond what I expected. Its ben many years since my Dragonair was defeated. To think that almost two years ago he was only Top 4 in Sinnoh and now he's Elite Four Material, possibly Champion.'
Ash sat on the bench and released a breath 'Lance is definitely as tough as the rumors say he is. I can't believe he was able to defeat my Zapdos with his Dragonair. I haven't even seen his Dragonite battle yet so who knows what he still has left.' Ash pulled out a Pokeball and stared at it. It was different from most Pokeballs as it was all black in color except for the white button in the center and intricate blue lines running throughout the Pokeball 'I'll definitely have to use you soon my friend.'
"Hey" Max said "Look at the Pokeball Ash is holding."
"It doesn't look like any Pokeball I've ever seen before" Misty said "I wonder where he got it."
"Ash must have had it custom made" Brock said "The question is for what?"
"It must house a secret weapon that Ash is going to use against Lance" Volkner said.
"Attentions trainers, five minutes have now passed" the MC called "Please return to your boxes." Both Lance and Ash walked back into the field "When we last left off Lance had lost three Pokémon while Ash had lost two Pokémon. We'll now continue with the match."
"It has been determined that Ash will send out his Pokémon first" the ref said "Begin."
"Why does Ash always have to send his out first" Misty asked.
"It's because he has more Pokémon than Lance does" Professor Oak replied.
"Eelektross battle time" Ash called. Eelektross made its appearance on the field and in Ash's fourth slot.
"Ash's fourth Pokémon, the powerful Eelektross" the MC called "No we'll see which Pokémon Lance chooses to combat against it."
"Go Salamence" Lance called. In a flash a large Salamence appeared on the field with a loud roar. Salamence appeared in Lance's fourth slot.
"And Lance chooses Salamence as his fourth Pokémon" the MC called.
"Salamence use flamethrower" Lance called. Salamence charged a flamethrower.
"Eelektross you use flamethrower as well" Ash said. Eelektross charged a flamethrower and both Pokémon launched them at the same time. The result was a tie "Now use flash cannon" Ash called. Eelektross formed a silver ball of energy before firing it.
"Salamence use dragon pulse" Lance said. Salamence launched a large dragon pulse that hit the flash cannon before forcing its way through and hitting Eelektross.
"And Salamence's powerful dragon pulse proves too strong for Eelektross' flash cannon" the MC called.
"Hang in there Eelektross use brick break" Ash called. Eelektross charged forward with one of its fins glowing.
"Dodge it" Lance called. Salamence swerved to the side.
"Now rock smash" Ash called. Eelektross turned and smashed Salamence hard with rock smash, but it didn't do too much damage due to Salamence's resistance to fighting moves.
"Salamence use thunder fang" Lance called. Salamence's fangs cackled with electricity and then bit down on Eelektross causing the EleFish Pokémon to groan in pain.
"Good Eelektross now use thunderbolt" Ash smirked. Eelektross roared and unleashed a powerful thunderbolt that shocked Salamence badly.
Volkner smirked "Smart, he wanted Salamence to bite down on Eelektross so he could unleash a point blank range thunderbolt."
"Where does he come up with these strategies" Dawn asked rhetorically.
Lance growled as Salamence released its fangs from Eelektross and flew back wincing "Salamence use dragon claw" he called. Salamence's claws glowed before charging at Eelektross.
"You use brick break to counter" Ash called. Eelektross' fin glowed and both Pokémon slammed them together and now it was a draw as both Pokémon struggled for dominance.
"Use Dragon claw with your other hand" Lance called.
"Counter with another brick break" Ash responded. Both Pokémon clashed again and it was a super struggle for dominance.
"Well Ash it appears we've reached a standoff" Lance said.
"You'd think so" Ash responded confusing Lance. "It's true that both Pokémon are locked in combat and can't use any other move with their hands or tails because they're either too far apart or locked together. However we could both still launch attacks from the mouths like flamethrower or dragon pulse, but that would prove ineffective as both Pokémon could lean their heads to the side, but there is one thing that you made a crucial mistake on Lance."
"And what's that" Lance asked. Suddenly his eyes widened "Oh crud, I forgot about…"
"That's right" Ash smirked "Never make contact with an electric Pokémon "Thunderbolt let's go." Eelektross unleashed a large thunderbolt that shocked Salamence badly. Once Eelektross ended the battle both Pokémon jumped back with scratches over their body since both of them had taken a lot of damage. "Alright Eelektross let's end this use hyper beam" Ash called. Eelektross launched a large hyper beam at Salamence.
"Dodge and use thunder fang" Lance called. Salamence dodged the hyper beam and since Eelektross couldn't act right away the thunder fang hit and Salamence flew back as Eelektross winced and electricity cackled off of its body.
'Crud, thunder fang can cause paralysis' Ash thought while gritting his teeth.
"That's what I was hoping for" Lance smirked "Now use Draco Meteor." Salamence launched a large orange ball into the air that broke into many balls and began raining down upon Eelektross. Soon the attack ended and Eelektross was out cold on the ground not moving.
The ref raised the red flag "Eelektross is unable to battle; Salamence is the winner." Eelektross' icon went dark signifying defeat leaving Ash with three Pokémon. Ash recalled his Eelektross.
"A stunning outcome as Ketchum's Eelektross is taken down" the MC called "Now will he go back with Raichu or pick a new Pokémon."
"Electavire battle time" Ash called sending out the thunderbolt Pokémon. Electavire appeared on the field and in Ash's fifth slot while punching its fists together.
"And Electavire his choice" the MC called "We've seen his Electavire before that took out two of Bruno's Pokémon last time it was out. Let's see if we can get a repeat performance here."
"Electavire let's start this off with thunderbolt" Ash called. Electavire roared and launched a large thunderbolt at Salamence.
"Salamence dodge and use dragon breath" Lance called. Salamence dodged the thunderbolt before launching a swirling green blast of energy at Electavire.
"Giga Impact let's go" Ash called. Electavire surrounded itself in purple energy before launching itself at the dragon breath. Electavire plowed through the dragon breath before nailing Salamence head on.
"Iron tail now" Lance growled. Salamence turned and slammed Electavire with its glowing tail making Electavire fly towards the ground "Now dragon rush" Lance called. Salamence surrounded itself in sapphire blue energy before charging at Electavire.
"Ice punch now" Ash called as Salamence got closer. Electavire's fist glowed blue and punched at the glowing Salamence, but Salamence proved too strong and hit Electavire. "What" Ash said shocked "That should have sent Salamence flying."
"Normally it would have" Lance said "But you see Salamence's ability is Moxie." Ash grit his teeth knowing what the ability did.
"Moxie" May said confused.
"It's a hidden ability of Salamence" Brock said. "Moxie increases the attack of the Pokémon whenever said Pokémon defeats another Pokémon."
"Electavire use flamethrower" Ash shouted. Electavire launched a large flamethrower at Salamence that enveloped the large dragon Pokémon.
"Dragon breath let's go" Lance called. Salamence launched a large green beam of energy out of the flames towards Electavire.
"Block it and use thunderbolt" Ash called. Electavire crossed its arms and tried to endure the dragon breath, but was able to before launching a thunderbolt at Salamence. Salamence managed to dodge it and swerve from left to right avoiding the thunderbolts from Electavire.
"Dragon rush now" Lance called. Salamence charged forward and gained a sapphire blue glow around its body.
"Grab it now" Ash called. Electavire grabbed Salamence with its tails stopping the large dragon in its tracks and ending the dragon rush attack.
"And Electavire has Salamence in a tough hold" the MC called.
"Thunderbolt now" Ash called. Electavire released a large thunderbolt that did massive damage to Salamence "Now end it with ice punch" Ash called. Electavire's fist glowed blue before punching Salamence hard making Salamence take extreme damage.
Salamence flew back and landed on the ground not moving "And Salamence is down" the MC roared.
The ref raised the green flag "Salamence is unable to…" Suddenly Salamence opened up its eyes and stood up wincing, but glaring at Electavire.
"I don't believe it" the MC roared "After taking a brutal beating from Electavire, Salamence is still able to stand."
Ash growled "I thought for sure that would take Salamence down. Electavire use charge beam" Ash called.
"Salamence fly and use Draco meteor" Lance called. Salamence flew high into the air before its body began glowing orange. Salamence launched an orange ball into the air before it split into many balls and rained down onto the field. They all hit obscuring everyone's view of the field for a limited amount of time. When it cleared it showed Electavire on the ground with swirls in its eyes groaning slightly.
The ref raised the red flag "Electavire is unable to battle; Salamence is the winner." Electavire's icon went dark signifying defeat leaving Ash with two Pokémon.
"Oh no, Ash is falling behind" May cried.
"It's not over yet sis" Max said "We've seen Ash pull out of situations tighter than this and he'll do it again."
Ash recalled Electavire "You did your best, now take a long rest." Ash looked up at the screen to see Lance still had two free slots while Ash had one. He looked back to Lance's Salamence to see it was severely injured 'Alright Raichu should be able to take out Salamence and injure his next Pokémon' Ash thought "Raichu battle time" Ash said.
Raichu raced back into the field and Ash's second slot lit back up "And Ash decides to go with Raichu" the MC called. "Both Pokémon have taken quite a thrashing so this battle will all dwindle down to which Pokémon has more endurance and will."
"Salamence use dragon pulse" Lance called. Salamence launched a large dragon pulse at Raichu thanks to its Moxie ability making it much stronger.
"Dodge and use zap cannon" Ash called. Raichu jumped over the dragon pulse before launching zap cannon at Salamence.
"Dragon breath now" Lance called. Salamence launched a large dragon breath that canceled out zap cannon "Now Dragon Rush" he called.
"Volt tackle" Ash countered. Both Pokémon charged at each other with Salamence gaining a sapphire glow around its body and Raichu gaining a yellow glow around his body. Both Pokémon slammed into each other before Raichu jumped out if the smoke with electricity cackling around his body making him wince. Salamence came out next wincing as well while barley being able to fly. "Alright Raichu it's almost over" Ash said "Let's finish it off with thunder punch."
Raichu clenched his fist and it ignited with electricity and Raichu charged at Salamence "Salamence dodge and use iron tail" Lance called. Salamence jumped up and avoided the thunder punch before bringing down its glowing tail hitting Raichu hard on the head. Raichu cried out as he was tossed back.
"Raichu no" Ash cried. Raichu managed to stand up, but was wincing greatly 'Man, what does it take to bring that Salamence down?' His eyes widened 'Wait that's it' he thought "Raichu use quick attack now" Ash called. Raichu charged at Salamence as quickly as possible.
"Dodge it" Lance said. Salamence flew high up avoiding the attack.
"Now Volt tackle" Ash said. Raichu turned before jumping up at Salamence with electricity glowing around Raichu's body before hitting Salamence causing massive damage. "Now full powered hyper beam" Ash called.
"Salamence counter it with your own hyper beam" Lance called. Both Pokémon built up a hyper beam before hitting each other point blank with their attacks. Lance and Ash were forced to cover their eyes from the backlash, but when it cleared it revealed that both Salamence and Raichu were on the ground out cold.
The ref raised both flags "Salamence and Raichu are both unable to battle; this match is a draw." Both icons went dark and the crowd cheered.
"And just like that it was down to one Pokémon for Ash Ketchum" the MC called as Lance recalled his Salamence and Ash carried Raichu off the field. "Let's see if Ash has the Pokémon left to defeat Lance."
"Go Altaria" Lance called sending out his fifth Pokémon that appeared on the field and in Lance's fifth slot. 'Well Ash the pressure's on you; do you have the Pokémon that can defeat two of mine?'
"Come on Ash, you can still win" Misty shouted.
"Let's go Ash" Max and May shouted.
"You can do it" Dawn cried.
"You've come too far to fail Ash, you can do it" Brock encouraged.
"Go Ash, go" Professor Oak shouted.
"You can do it honey" Delia cried.
Ash pulled out the very Pokeball he was looking at during the five minute break "Alright" he breathed "It's battle time" he shouted throwing the Pokeball into the field. A flash later and a large black Pokémon appeared on the field. The Pokémon had glaring red eyes, sharp teeth, and long black arms with claws, long wings and legs with a thick round tail.
The crowd didn't recognize the Pokémon, but they cheered anyway "And it looks like Ash's last Pokémon is the Legendary Zekrom."
Lance's eyes were wide "It's a Zekrom."
May pulled her Pokedex out "Zekrom, the Deep Black Pokémon; Zekrom conceals itself in clouds and its tail has a generator that creates electricity."
"He caught Zekrom" Volkner said wide eyed "I never expected him to get this powerful."
"What is Zekrom" Max asked confused.
"Zekrom is a powerful Legendary Pokémon native to the Unova Region" Volkner explained. "Zekrom is a Pokémon that is of both dragon and electric abilities."
"Some researchers" Professor Oak continued "say that Zekrom is in the top three for most powerful Legendary Pokémon and there are over fifty Legendaries."
Before the battle began Ash remembered the very day he caught Zekrom. It was actually only a week before he planned on coming back to Johto.
FLASHBACK
Ash was flying through the air on Garchomp with Zapdos and Thundurus flying alongside him to work on their speed when they were almost zapped by a thunderbolt. They were then encountered by Zekrom and had to battle it. Even though Ash had trained Zapdos and Garchomp for over a year and Thundurus for a few months Zekrom was so strong that he was able to defeat all three of them, but was defeated as well.
The four Pokémon and Ash were on the ground covered in scorch marks and exhausted. Ash recalled his three Pokémon before walking over to Zekrom. Zekrom was on the ground wincing in pain from all of the injuries it sustained. Ash pulled out a spray bottle filled with medicine and started to heal Zekrom's wounds "You'll be okay Zekrom" Ash whispered.
'You would heal me' Zekrom said telepathically 'After I attacked you? Why?'
"It's not in my nature to leave an injured Pokémon" Ash said as he continued to heal Zekrom's wounds "Besides it was just a misunderstanding. We were flying through the air and ended up invading your space so naturally you responded and attacked us. It's no problem really?"
Zekrom was silent 'Thank you' Zekrom finally said before succumbing to sleep.
END FLASHBACK
Zekrom joined Ash the next day upon waking up and it made things easier for Ash to battle since he and Zekrom could communicate telepathically "Alright Zekrom let's start this out with dragon breath" Ash called.
'Right' Zekrom roared before launching a large purple dragon breath at Altaria.
"Altaria use dragon breath as well" Lance shouted. Altaria launched a dragon breath, only green in color, but it was not match for Zekrom's as Zekrom's dragon breath tore through it easily and hit Altaria causing some massive damage.
"Alright now Zekrom use thunderbolt" Ash called. Zekrom's tail glowed blue before launching a blue thunderbolt at Altaria that hit the Humming Pokémon.
Altaria managed to shrug it off and still continue "Altaria use dragon rush" Lance called. Altaria launched itself at Zekrom with a sapphire blue glow surrounding its body.
"Zekrom use Fusion Bolt" Ash said calmly. Zekrom's tail glowed brighter and electricity began swirling before Zekrom's body was surrounded in blue lightning before charging at Altaria. They met in a large clash before Altaria gave a loud cry of pain and Zekrom charged out of the smoke. Altaria fell to the ground.
"Altaria no" Lance cried. Altaria was on the ground unmoving with swirls in its eyes.
The ref raised the green flag "Altaria is unable to battle; Zekrom is the winner." Altaria's icon went dark signifying defeat laving Lance with only one Pokémon.
"Zekrom's attack took Altaria out like it was nothing" the MC roared "To say Zekrom is strong is an understatement."
"Whoa, just one attack" May said amazed.
"Zekrom is indeed a powerful Pokémon" Brock said.
Lance recalled his Altaria before pulling out his last Pokeball "Powerful Legendary Dragon or not I'm still gonna win. I choose you Dragonite." Out came Lance's first and most powerful Pokémon Dragonite.
"Champion Lance's last Pokémon; the Legendary Dragonite" the MC called "IF either Pokémon goes down then this match is over."
"Well Ash this has been the most exciting battle I've had in a long time" Lance said "But now it's time to end this."
"I couldn't agree more" Ash said "Ready Zekrom?"
'Always' Zekrom replied.
"Let's begin" Lance said "Dragonite use thunder wave." Dragonite's antennas sparkled before firing blue electricity at Zekrom.
"You use thunder wave too" Ash called. Zekrom launched its own thunder wave and both attacks collided before blowing up "Now use Fusion Bolt" Ash called. Zekrom charged one of its signature attacks before charging at Dragonite.
"Dodge and use ice beam" Lance called. Dragonite dodged the Fusion Bolt before firing an ice beam that hit Zekrom, who roared in anger from the move. "Now use Flamethrower" Lance called. Dragonite launched a large flamethrower at Zekrom.
"Use Cut" Ash called. Zekrom's left arm glowed before swinging it and cutting the flamethrower down the middle and dispelling the attack.
"Amazing" the MC roared "One swing of the arm and Zekrom cut the flamethrower in half." The crowd was amazed as well.
"Now Zekrom use stone edge" Ash called. Zekrom roared as rocks formed around its body before launching them at Dragonite. They all hit and Dragonite was thrown to the ground having taken a lot of damage from that move.
"Dragonite, hang in there and use hyper beam" Lance called. Dragonite built up a hyper beam in its mouth.
"Not so fast" Ash called "Zekrom use hyper voice." Zekrom breathed in before releasing a loud sound wave that carried on and hit Dragonite. Dragonite lost its chance to form the hyper beam and couldn't move due to the hyper voice. "Good Zekrom, now use Dragon Rush." Zekrom stopped the hyper voice before charging at Dragonite with a sapphire glow surrounding its body. Zekrom slammed hard into Dragonite making the large dragon roar in pain.
"Hang in there Dragonite use dragon claw" Lance called. Dragonite's claws glowed before slashing Zekrom and both Pokémon flew back having taken super effective moves. "Dragonite use dragon pulse" Lance called.
"Dodge and use air slash" Ash called. Dragonite launched the green orb, but Zekrom dodged it before slashing at Dragonite doing damage to the large Pokémon.
"Dragonite dragon rage now" Lance ordered, but Dragonite didn't move "What's wrong?" lance looked closer and saw that Dragonite looked scared "Flinching… but how?"
"Where's Dragon rage" Misty asked.
"Air slash can cause an opponent to flinch and then prevents them from attacking" Professor Oak said.
"How did you do that Ash" Lance shouted "Dragonite's Inner Focus prevents flinching."
"Oh so Dragonite's ability is Inner Focus" Ash said "Too bad since Inner Focus would have worked with any other Pokémon other than Zekrom of course." Zekrom smirked slightly "The reason it didn't work is because of Zekrom's own ability known as Teravolt, which negates Inner Focus' ability so Dragonite can flinch just like any other Pokémon."
Lance growled "I'm wide open now" he whispered.
"Now let's wrap this up" Ash said "Zekrom descend and then use Bolt Strike." Zekrom flew high up into the air with a roar before disappearing with a twinkle. Then Zekrom flew back down with blue electricity gathering around its body before Zekrom clenched its fists and the electricity turned yellow. Dragonite didn't stand a chance at dodging and was hit dead on with the attack.
"Dragonite" Lance shouted. The smoke didn't clear, but Zekrom flew out of the smoke, but Lance and Ash noticed that Dragonite was latched onto Zekrom's back. Zekrom noticed too "Alright Dragonite use ice beam." Dragonite hit Zekrom point blank with an ice beam making Zekrom howl in pain.
"Toss Dragonite" Ash shouted. Zekrom began swerving as fast as it could trying to toss Dragonite off of its body.
"Use ice beam once more" Lance called. Zekrom was hit again with another ice beam at point blank range.
"Alright Zekrom use wild charge and head for the ground" Ash called. Zekrom gained electricity around its body before flying down towards the ground and landing back first on it. When the smoke cleared it showed both Dragonite and Zekrom still standing, but both of them were panting. "Alright Zekrom it's time to end this" Ash called.
"Dragonite let's get this over with" Lance called "Use Dragon Rush."
"Use Fusion Bolt" Ash called. Both Pokémon gained blue glows around their bodies before charging at each other with a roar before colliding, which resulting in the biggest explosion anyone in the stands had ever seen. Ash and Lance were knocked off their feet from the explosion while everyone in the stands had to cover their eyes.
After five minutes the explosion began dying down and Ash and Lance were back on their feet with their hands clenched and their teeth bared waiting for the smoke to clear to find out who won. Finally it cleared and showed both Dragonite and Zekrom still standing although panting harshly. "I… I can't believe it folks. After the grueling clash both Pokémon are still able to stand up."
Both Pokémon were panting and glaring at one another for almost a minute before Dragonite's eyelids went heavy and Dragonite toppled over to the right and landed on the ground unmoving. Ash and Lance both looked on shocked.
The ref raised the green flag "Dragonite is unable to battle; the winner of this competition is Ash Ketchum."
"Dragonite has been defeated" the MC roared as Dragonite's icon went dark. Lance's picture and icons disappeared allowing Ash's picture to take up the screen with 'Winner' underneath it. "The winner is Ash Ketchum of Pallet Town."
The crowd jumped from their seats and let loose loud cheers "He did it, he did it" his friends cheered.
"Ash did it" Elesa cheered from the opposite side of the stands.
Ash had a broad grin on his face as he walked out into the field "Zekrom, thank you. You were awesome out there" Ash said.
'Thank you Ash' Zekrom replied.
Lance had a shocked look on his face before he smiled and walked out to his Dragonite who woke up "You did your best Dragonite" he said as he pet his longtime friend on the head. Both Champion and Pokémon walked up to Ash "That was a great battle Ash, you've really earned this victory" Lance said.
"Thanks Lance" Ash said as they both shook hands before Lance raised Ash's hand into the air and the crowd cheered. Both Dragon Pokémon were standing behind their trainers and they had no idea that this would be tomorrow's picture on the front page that would spread across the five regions. They wouldn't care though.