Part 11
June 1st
Hoenn Region
Battle Frontier
Ash stretched with a yawn as the flight attendants gave everyone the clearance to exit the plane. He had slept so well during the flight that he felt as though he had been reborn. Opening up the compartment above his seat, Ash removed his backpack and threw it over his shoulders before following the line out of the plan.
Surprisingly, as Ash stepped out onto the small staircase that had been wheeled up to the side of the plane, he was a greeted by air that was way colder than what he was feeling in Kanto. In fact, it felt as though it was winter right now. Then he remembered that Hoenn was in the southern hemisphere, so right now it was winter as opposed to Kanto and Johto who were currently enjoying summer.
Flipping up the collar of his jacket, Ash gave himself the goal of buying a thicker jacket once he made it to the small building that was acting as a small airport for the Battle Frontier.
In comparison to the Hoenn Region, the Battle Frontier was nothing but a small island near the edge of the area that was addressed as Hoenn. But when you're actually on the island, you realize that whoever had built the Battle Frontier had packed as much as they could onto this one island. Not only were the seven facilities that made up the globally known Battle Frontier were located on this one island, but there was a small airfield, an Academy to prepare trainers for the professional circuit and living quarters for everyone that lived on the island. There wasn't one square inch that went to waste.
Ash cupped his hands in front of his mouth and exhaled to warm up his hands as he stepped into the small building where he could pass through customs and hopefully by a thicker jacket from one of the small shops.
"Alright, everything is all clear. I hope you enjoy your time in the Hoenn Region Mr Champion." The receptionist said as she returned Ash's passport and ticket to him through the small opening in the glass with a smile.
"Thank you." Ash said as he accepted his items, then he wrinkled his forehead. "Wait, what did you say?"
"Have a good time in Hoenn."
"No, after that."
"Mr Champion?" She said, clearly unsure if that's what Ash wanted to here.
The moment she repeated that for him, it was like the previous day flooded back into his head. He could vividly remember everything that had taken place on Indigo Plateau. The clamor of the fans as he held the trophy. The dozens of camera flashes the blinded him as he sat in a press conference. The wave of pride that washed over him as he looked into the case that held the Championship Trophy along with a photograph of he and his team.
He was the current Champion, and everyone around the world knew him. Glancing back at the line behind him, Ash could see everyone whispering and point at him, but this came to an immediate stop when they saw that he was looking at them.
Ash chuckled inwardly before thanking the receptionist a second time, then he ventured further into the makeshift airport in search of one of the small gift shops. Purchasing thicker jacket with a hood, Ash quickly put it on in the shop before spotting a magazine rack that was filled with booklets that had him on the front cover with the line 'Kanto is too small for him!' on the bottom of the page.
'Ah, can't get distracted.' Ash said as he slapped himself mentally. He didn't have anytime to waste on reading an article about himself. With a sigh Ash left the shop, looking for his next destination within the building. A Pokemon Center.
Following a map he had seen near the entrance of the building, Ash found the small Pokemon Center that was truthfully nothing more than a counter set up for Nurse Joy with a healing station behind her.
Depositing the Pokemon that he had used in the Indigo Conference Finals with Nurse Joy for them to healed, Ash then went to the PC beside Nurse Joy's station to retrieve his Ivysaur. Without Pikachu on his shoulder, Ash felt the need for a travelling companion and Ivysaur fit the description perfectly. Plus he wanted to ease it back into Pokemon battles, so they would start from scratch with walking.
"Come on out Ivysaur!" Ash said once he was outside of the building. The grass type Pokemon instantly began to shiver in the chilly weather that the area was experiencing, but it quickly shook this off after a few moments.
"Saur?" It asked, looking about.
"We're in Hoenn right now, that's why it's so cold." Ash explained. "But that's beside the point. Starting today we're going to get you back into the shape."
Ivysaur looked up at him with bright eyes, prepared to begin its training, although this quickly faded away when Ash explained that they would only be walking to help Ivysaur get over its stiffness.
"Oh come on Ivysaur, this is to make sure that the next time we're in a battle you'll be ready to go." Ash said as he tried to reason with Ivysaur who was being uncharacteristically stubborn.
"Saur!" It proclaimed before attempting to use Vine Whip. As the thin vines extended from its body, Ivysaur gasped from a stabbing pain that shot around its torso, causing it to collapse to its stomach.
"See, you're not fine." Ash said as he kneeled down beside it.
"Ivysaur." It said scornfully as it looked away from Ash. Placing a hand on top of its head, Ash did what he could to comfort the Pokemon as they waited for the pain to subside. With its short appearance in the Indigo Conference and its bitter ending, Ash could understand Ivysaur's frustration.
"Don't worry Ivysaur, that was only the first Conference of many to come." Ash said as Ivysaur remained silent beside him. Ash had read and seen his fair share of sad injuries that would end a Pokemon's ability to battle in a professional circuit. And a number of them came from trying to rush back from an injury. He wasn't going to let that happen to Ivysaur. "Let's just focus on getting you healthy at first."
"Man, this is ten times bigger than the Tsugi Academy." Ash exclaimed as he wandered around the perimeter of the Battle Frontier. The entire complex was surrounded with a barrier similar to the walls of the Tsugi Complex, but the gates were few and far in between.
"Ouch!" A nearby voice shouted, getting Ash's attention.
"Did you hear that?" Ash asked Ivysaur, receiving a nod from his Pokemon. "I think it came from over there."
Ash and Ivysaur moved though the thick foliage in search of the source of the shout where they found a boy with dark hair resting on his stomach with a Kirlia seated beside him.
"Are you okay?" Ash asked as he approached the boy who only groaned as he rubbed his head.
"Uh, yeah I think so." He replied as he slowly rose up.
"What exactly were you doing?"
"Oh, well I was helping my Kirlia practice its Psychic attack by lifting me up into the air." He explained as Kirlia retrieved his large glasses that had fallen off of his face when he crashed onto the ground. "I guess Kirlia got tired and dropped me."
"Don't you think it would be smarter to use a rock or something?" Ash suggested.
"None of them are heavy enough for Kirlia to really have to work, and the practice facilities are all closed during winter break." He replied as Kirlia climbed onto his lap and placed his glasses on their rightful place, restoring his vision. Blinking a few times to clear up his vision, the boy tilted his head as he observed Ash before jumping to his feet. "No way, you're Ash Ketchum!"
Ash was a bit taken a back at his sudden out burst, not even realizing that the boy needed his glasses to see. But that would also explain why there wasn't a sudden outburst when they first started speaking.
"I heard you were coming today, but I never thought I would get a chance to meet you personally." He said excitedly. "My name is Max Maple, I'm a sophomore at the Battle Academy here, and this is my Kirlia."
"Kirlia!" His Pokemon added happily.
'Maple?' Ash said as he studied the boy. "Are you related to May Maple?"
"You know my sister?!" He exclaimed.
"Of course. We were in the same graduating class from the Tsugi Academy." Ash replied.
"Yeah I knew that. But May never told me that she was friends with Ash Ketchum." Max went on as Ivysaur approached Kirlia to spark some light conversation. "Oh this is so cool, I'm talking with the Indigo Conference Champion. I saw all your battles by the way, and you were fantastic!"
"Thanks." Ash responded. "So you go to the Academy here?"
"Uh-huh!"
"Can you show me where one of the gates are. I've been wandering around for at least ten minutes now looking for a way in." Ash explained.
"I know a better way in!" Max said before turning to his Kirlia. "Kirlia, use Teleport!"
Before Ash could have a say in the matter, the group of four disappeared within a small flash light.
Ash shivered as he felt the air become significantly colder. He was no longer standing in the dense forest that surrounded the perimeter of the Battle Frontier. Now he stood on a large gray platform that was completely barren and he could see nothing but gray skies surrounding them.
"This can't be the Battle Frontier. Max, where are we?" Ash asked, looking around for the boy who he found seated near the edge of the platform, peering over the side.
"Come see." Max said, motioning for Ash to join him at the edge. Ash looked down at Ivysaur who was still standing beside him, giving it a brief nod before they joined Max.
The sight they were greeted with caused Ash's stomach to churn for a moment as he stumbled backward, falling flat on his bottom.
"Max, where are we?" Ash hollered at the boy as he spent a moment trying to steady his breathing.
"On top of the Battle Tower." Max replied as he glanced back at Ash.
"On top of the Battle Tower!" Ash repeated exasperatedly.
"Precisely." Max stated.
"Why did you bring me up here?!" Ash continued shout.
"This the best view of the Battle Frontier you're going to get. I had no idea you were afraid of heights."
Ash was as far from afraid of heights as a Pidgeot was, but the expected distance between him the ground nearly made him choke on his heart.
"I'm not." Ash said as he rose up to his feet, dusting himself off as though nothing had happened. Then he rejoined Max, Ivysaur and Kirlia at the edge of the platform where he looked over tentatively this time. Now that he could calmly admire the view, Ash had to admit that it was worth the scare.
The actual compound of the Battle Frontier was a masterpiece from an architectural standpoint. Each of the seven facilities were located in an area that was clearly designed for that particular building. For example the Battle Palace was surrounded by a small moat and the small plot of land it had claimed was filled with foliage and greenery. The Battle Tower stood alone on a hill with nothing near it, looming over the entire island with its immense height.
This view was truly magnificent.
Glancing at Max, Ash couldn't help but tilted his head as he compared him to his sister. They both held the same adventurous spirit that would allow them to progress quickly as trainers.
Once they were done enjoying the view, Kirlia teleported the group of four to the lobby of the Battle Tower. Fortunately there was a only a small group of students quietly chatting in the lobby, but the moment they recognized Ash everything began to spiral out of control. He was quickly swarmed by the group for autographs and photos. And just when he thought he was done with that group, he exited the Battle Tower to discover that there was massive crowd of students and Battle Frontier faculty waiting for him.
He could only assume that the small group of students he had been with inside the Battle Tower had sent out a message to everyone in the entire compound.
Ash still had to get used to the thought that if one person noticed him, many more were bound to as well. No one wanted to miss an opportunity to meet the Indigo Conference Champion.
"Enough!" A voice boomed over the chatter coming from the mob of students, silencing them. Soon enough the crowd surrounding Max and Ash separated revealing two men of high statue. The Pyramid King Brandon, and the Palace Maven Spenser, two of the seven Frontier Brains. Both of them had already spent their time in the professional circuit, earning themselves a spot in the Hall of Fame.
"We can understand that you're all excited to meet Ash Ketchum, but please wait until later. He has some business to attend to first." Spenser said, disbanding the crowd. The two of them the approached Ash, Spenser with a welcoming smile while Brandon wore a stoic expression. "Ah Ash, how nice it is to meet you. Are you enjoying Hoenn's weather?"
"I prefer it when its warm, but I won't complain." Ash replied before eyeing Brandon who had been staring at him menacingly. "Can I help you?"
"I still find it hard to believe that this brat was the winner of the Indigo Conference." Brandon stated as he crossed his arms in front of his chest. Ash shrugged mentally as he realized that even though he had the adoration of so many people, earning the respect of such a well known trainer wouldn't be that easy.
"Well Brandon, the circuit has reached the point where the younger generation will begin to fill our spots. Some of us have overstayed our welcome." Spenser pointed out with a chuckle.
"You might have, but I plan on being around for years to come." Brandon went on.
"I won't plan to far out into the future Brandon. One of the young ones might sneak up on you and become the next Pyramid King."
"Hah, as if." Brandon shot back.
"Are they always like this?" Ash whispered to Max.
"Yup. Brandon just can't admit that he's getting old." Max replied with a snicker.
"What was that Max?" Brandon asked with a sharp glance, causing Max to flinch.
"N-Nothing sir." Max said nervously.
"That's what I thought." Brandon mumbled.
"Brandon, go ahead and fetch the student he came for." Spenser said, receiving a shrug from Brandon before he left. In the mean Ash, we've prepared an opponent for you at the Battle Dome as a treat for the students. Do you mind participating?"
"No, not at all. But most of my Pokemon are recovering right now, so I don't know if I'll be much a match for anyone at the moment." Ash replied.
"Not a problem."
Battle Dome
"It's not everyday I get to see a Conference Champion in action, so I brought out the best we've got!" Noland, the Factory Head bellowed with a laugh as he motioned to the wide variety of Pokemon he had set out before Ash.
Ash could only stare at the pack of thirty Pokemon that varied in shapes and sizes with bright eyes. There were Pokemon from every region standing before him, anxiously waiting to see who he would choose for his two on two battle with Tucker.
After sharing his situation and the fact that all of his Pokemon were in need of a rest after the Indigo Conference, Spenser had given Noland a call to bring over a number of Pokemon Ash to choose from. Their request for him to battle began to seem more like a demand since they weren't going to let him off the hook, although he was happy to comply.
"Aw Ash, you're so lucky!" Max exclaimed. "Noland never let's anyone use these Pokemon."
"Well these are top of the line Pokemon Max. Only an experienced trainer will be able to handle them on the battlefield." Noland replied as Ash continued to observe what choices he had.
"You know, I've never really used a rock type, so I think I'll go with this Rhyperior." Ash declared as he stepped toward the horned Pokemon who smiled proudly.
"And what about your second choice?"
"Let's see, think I'll go with…this Emboar." Ash said, watching as the Pokemon began to beat its chest triumphantly as though it had already won a match.
"So are you ready to begin?" Noland asked as he gave Ash two Pokeballs from a small cart behind him to recall Rhyperior and Emboar.
"Uh, hang on." Ash said as he looked around for Ivysaur who he found chatting with a group of the Pokemon Tucker had released along with Max's Kirlia.
"You don't mind if I leave Ivysuar here, do you?" Ash asked Noland.
"It's no trouble."
"Thank you." Ash said before hollering to Ivysaur. "Ivysaur, I don't want to hear about any trouble!"
"Saur, Ivysaur!" It replied.
"I hope so!" Ash replied before returning his gaze to Noland. "Alright, now I'm set."
The students of the Battle Academy within the Battle Frontier were quite lucky since their curriculum revolved around the multiple battle styles that were used in the Battle Frontier. Aside from the regular education they would receive in an Academy, they also have the opportunity of learning from each of the Frontier Brains.
Spenser specialized in teaching who to care for Pokemon to ensure that a high level of chemistry is developed between trainer and Pokemon. Brandon would teach the students about what sort of elements they should expect to meet while traveling and how to cope with them since he had experienced everything that nature could throw at him during his journey. Greta, the newest and youngest Frontier Brain, specialized in physical side of Pokemon trainer, instructing the students on the best methods to practice with their Pokemon.
Tucker taught the students to how to address the media to ensure that they can maintain a good image in the eye of the public if they were to join the professional circuit. Lucy wasn't much of a teacher unfortunately, but she was the student's favorite instructor to have a practice battle with, and Lucy warmly welcomed them. Noland, like Lucy, wasn't much a teacher, but he did absolutely nothing for the students. The Battle Factory did all the work. While Noland would spend his days working on his planes, students would go into the Battle Factory to practice using different Pokemon in order to gain a better understanding of each type.
And while all of the teachers that were available to the students were great, the battlefields were just as good. Each facility offered a different field to battle under different conditions to ensure that the trainers had the experience of varying fields. Next to the battlefield on the top floor of the Battle Tower, the battlefield of the Battle Dome was the largest stage available within the Battle Frontier, and that was where Ash would be battling.
The Battle Dome was simply one stadium that could hold a few thousands people around one raised battlefield that was lit by dozens of spotlights hanging from the ceiling. Down below the battlefield, Ash found himself staring at a man that was wearing an outfit that was easily the weirdest thing he had ever seen. Even though it was the Dome Ace Tucker, Ash just couldn't get over the crazy jumpsuit he was wearing with wings.
"Ash Ketchum, it's an honor to meet you!" He said as they shook hands with Ash who still wore a blank expression.
"Umm, back at cha." Ash said slowly. He was in the presence of a trainer who had been entered into the Hall of Fame.
"I understand that you just finished participating in the Indigo Conference yesterday, so we'll have a light battle although it will still be considered an exhibition match." Tucker explained before smiling. "It's for the students really. They don't get to see trainers outside of the Frontier Brains too often, so it's a real treat to see a Champion come to visit."
"I see." Ash said. "But don't go too easy on me."
"It may be a light battle Ash, but I do have a reputation to uphold." Tucker said before looking up when he heard the introductions begin. "I believe its time to begin. I'll see you on the top."
Ash gave him a nod and the two of them stepped back to their separate platforms that would take them up through the building to the battlefield above. Tucker gave Ash a thumbs up before his platform began to rise up through the tunnel in the ceiling.
If this was going to be an exhibition match, he couldn't take this as lightly as Tucker was. Exhibition matches would have no effect on his overall career, but they were key for winning votes with the public. Exhibition matches between popular trainers were shown in between Conferences, and almost seemed like a guarantee that this one would be shown as well. At the very least he would have to put on a show.
Taking in a deep breath, Ash felt his platform begin to rise after a few moments which made him look up excitedly. He had never entered a battle in this fashion, and it was by far the coolest thing he had done. At the end of the tunnel he was rising through, Ash could see it open up revealing the bright spotlights that were focusing on the area he would be entering through. The roar of the crowd, something that had been muffled by the closed tunnel had become clear to him now as his platform reached its destination.
"As a special treat, we got the Indigo Conference Champion visiting today to have an exhibition match against Tucker!" A student had taken on the job of announcing for the battle. Analyzing battles and announcing was one of the many supplementary courses offered as the Battle Academy, and most of the times students were given the opportunity to practice during a life broadcast such as this battle. "Despite being named Champion just yesterday, Ash Ketchum made the trip here for us, so let's give him a big round of applause!"
The students that filled up the surrounding stands gave their cheers for Ash. Looking around at the stands curiously, Ash felt rather odd since it felt as though everyone present was actually rooting for him to win this battle. He had thought that they would all be supporting Tucker considering the fact that they all knew Tucker.
"Ash!" A voice called out to him. Glancing over his shoulder, Ash found Max standing at the border of the battlefield, waving to him.
"What's up Max?" Ash asked as they waited for the referee to get onto the field.
"Did Tucker tell you that you're going to have a light battle with him?" Max asked, receiving nod from Ash.
"Yeah, he pretty nice." Ash stated with a small smile.
"Don't believe him!" Max exclaimed.
"What? Why?"
"He says that to everyone, including the students. In truth he's just going to crush you with all the strength he has." Max explained. "He's just one big bully, so everyone here wants you to win!"
Ash looked back at Tucker, feeling a chill run up his spine as he looked into the cold and intense stare he was receiving from Tucker. Even though Tucker said it was going to be a light battle, the atmosphere around him said he was taking this seriously.
"Just the way I like it." Ash said as he cracked his knuckles, a smile forming on his face. This was his chance to test himself against a Hall of Famer. Now was a chance to see how he measured against some of the best trainers.
"Trainers, are you ready to begin?" The referee asked, receiving a nod from both participants. "Alright then, this double battle is now cleared to begin!"
"Swampert, Houndoom, we have a battle today!" Tucker announced as he tossed two Pokeballs into the air, releasing his chosen partners.
"Rhyperior, Emboar! Let's go!" Ash said valiantly as he released the pair of borrowed Pokemon who gave their shouts as they appeared on the battlefield.
Studying the situation, Ash could see that he was at a disadvantage. That Swampert could potentially knock out both Rhyperior and Emboar. But at the same time Houndoom was in the same boat since it could easily be defeated by both of Ash's Pokemon. If he could take out Houndoom quickly, then he could overwhelm Swampert with a number advantage.
"Ash, I'll give you the first move!" Tucker shouted from across the field, motioning for him to attack.
"You're going to wish you hadn't." Ash replied as he recalled the move sets of Rhyperior and Emboar. "Rhyperior, use Rock Wrecker on Houndoom!"
Rhyperior gave a roar as it raised both its arms, concentrating on the space above its head where a gray orb took shape. It continued to grow in size for a few moments until it matched Rhyperior in size. Then the gray orb began to spasm as it gained the features of a large chunk of earth. Soon enough Rhyperior had a large silver stone floating about it which it hurled at its target with great force.
"Swampert, stop it with Strength!" Tucker shouted. Swampert silent flexed the muscles of its upper torso which expanded until Swampert was large and bulky. Then it jumped into the path of the Rock Wrecker attack and put out both of its arms to brace for impact. There was a loud slam the stone hit Swampert's hands, pushing it back just a few feet before Swampert raised it above its head. "Now send it right back!"
"Swamp!" It shouted as it threw the Rock Wrecker attack right back at the user who was frozen in place from the energy drain of using Rock Wrecker.
"Emboar, take care of it with Rock Smash!" Ash shouted. Emboar rushed forward at the attack and raised its fist to attack. Everyone including Tucker was impressed with the raw power of Emboar as it shattered the Rock Wrecker attack with one blow.
"Swampert, use Hydro Pump on Emboar! Houndoom, compliment it with Flamethrower!" Tucker ordered as he extended one arm as Swampert's massive muscles deflated back to their normal size. The two Pokemon launched their respective attacks which would normally cancel each other out, but instead the Flamethrower attack began to spiral around the Hydro Pump that would surely pummel Emboar. But at the same time he couldn't call for it to dodge the attack either. His immobile Rhyperior was also in the path of the attack.
'Man, Tucker set us up to make sure someone gets hit.' Ash exclaimed as he made a quick decision. "Emboar, block it using Flare Blitz!"
Emboar began to stamp its feet, creating a cloak of flames around its entire body to take on the Hydro Pump attack. When the torrent of water crashed into Emboar's shield, a plume of white clouds expanded quickly around Emboar as the water evaporated instantly.
"Stand strong Emboar!" Ash yelled before noticing that Rhyperior shifted a bit before stretching its arms. The drain from Rock Wrecker had faded and Rhyperior was ready for action. "Rhyperior, use Drill Run on Houndoom."
Rhyperior gave Ash a nod before diving into the field head first, rotating its body to shred through the earth with ease. Feeling the field quake slightly, Tucker quickly assumed what was approaching and gave a warning.
"Swampert, Houndoom, prepare yourselves!" He called out with just enough time for the Pokemon to leap out of the way as Rhyperior burst out of the ground in the spot they were previously located in. "Now take out Rhyperior with Hydro Pump Swampert!"
"Emboar, get Swampert with Flare Blitz now!" Ash shouted as all of the Pokemon that had been airborne for a few moments landed on the field. Swampert than cocked its head back to launch a second Hydro Pump, but before it could spew the water from its mouth it was rudely tackled from its side by Emboar. The sudden attack sent Swampert tumbling away while Houndoom was left alone against Rhyperior. "Alright Rhyperior, get with Thunder Fang!"
"Quick Houndoom, keep it away with Inferno!" Tucker shouted, calling for the most powerful fire attack Houndoom had in its arsenal. Houndoom snarled as it barred its fangs before unleashing a wave of blue flames that completely enveloped Rhyperior, getting a roar of pain from the Pokemon as it was halted from attack. "Now get away Houndoom!"
"Not so fast, Emboar get it with Rock Smash!" Ash shouted, refusing to let this opportunity go to waste.
"Swampert, use Hydro Pump to keep Emboar away!" Tucker ordered now that his water type partner had gotten back to its feet. Emboar leaped at Houndoom was trying to escape the bad situation with the intent of finishing it with this one blow, but as it neared its target a stream of water crashed into it sending it tumbling across the field toward Ash. "Now get Rhyperior as well!"
Rhyperior was pounded by the Hydro Pump as it was sent back to Ash as well. For the sake of protecting Houndoom, Swampert had sacrificed power to increase how quickly it could launch the attack, leaving both Emboar and Rhyperior with some extensive damage, but otherwise good enough to continue.
"Damn, even though we sprung the trap he turned it around on us." Ash muttered as Emboar rose up to its feet while Rhyperior remained on one knee, clearly fighting hard against the burn status that had been placed on it from the Inferno attack. He had fallen into a hole that had been dug in just a moment's a notice and it was going to be difficult to find a way out of this.
"Swampert, Houndoom, let's end this battle. Use Water Pulse and Inferno!" Tucker said as he raised his arms.
"We have to counter that. Rhyperior, use Rock Wrecker! Emboar, back it up with Flame Charge!" Ash commanded.
Swampert opened up its mouth to spit out a swirling blue sphere toward its opponent while Houndoom fired another wave of flames that surrounded the water type attack, setting it ablaze with blue fire. The combination of the two attacks created an electrical field around that only intensified the power of the attack.
Rhyperior created another Rock Wrecker attack with great haste before launching it forward with Emboar pursuing it from behind. Once it was close enough to touch the Rock Wrecker attack, the stone lip up with a cloak of flames just like what was surrounding Emboar who ignited the rock and then began to push the stone forward to add to its strength. It was all or nothing with this attack.
Tuckered studied the flaming Rock Wrecker attack, realizing that under better circumstances for Ash's Pokemon, this probably would've been enough to turn the tide of the battle. But with Rhyperior's strength being sapped up from its current status, the overall power of its Rock Wrecker attack had fallen to a point where it was almost useless. The attacks collided for just a few moments before the Rock Wrecker attack shattered, leaving Emboar to gasp before it was hit by Tucker's combination attack.
Emboar was ripped from the ground by the attack and sent spiraling toward Rhyperior with the Water Pulse/Inferno attack pushing against its stomach. Once Emboar crashed into Rhyperior, Tucker's attack exploded, enveloping the two Pokemon in blue flames as well as the electrical field that had been created by the two attacks. Ash closed his hands into tight fists as the Pokemon he was using gave their shouts of pain as the attack ate away their remaining health.
The flames died down eventually, revealing that both Pokemon had fallen onto their backs after being knocked unconscious.
"Both Rhyperior and Emboar are unable to battle. Tucker is the winner." The referee declared to the stunned crowd. Even Ash was speechless.
Just yesterday he had climbed the staircase to the top of a Conference, and today he received to the opportunity to see what waited beyond where he had been. He had never imagined that there would be such a large gap between himself and trainers in the Hall of Fame.
Down below the battlefield, Ash and Tucker had met together again to have a quick discussion which had been requested by Tucker.
"Man, you wrecked me." Ash stated as he scratched the back of his neck with a sigh.
"I was expecting a lot of you so I kind of went overboard. But I guess I set the bar a little too high considering you just finished Indigo Conference yesterday." Tucker replied.
"What does that have to do with anything?"
"Battling at the Conference for several days punishes both the Pokemon and the trainer Ash. You Pokemon are currently resting from all of the built up fatigue from battle after battle, and right now you're exhausted mentally." Tucker said as he pointed at Ash's forehead.
"How would I be exhausted mentally?" Ash asked, getting a chuckle from Tucker.
"It was reflected on how you battled against me. After excessively thinking day in and day out during the Indigo Conference, you relaxed and so did you battling style. You became very straightforward with all of your attacks and how you used both Emboar and Rhyperior." Tucker explained, causing Ash to look down in though as he recalled everything that had taken place during the battle. Perhaps he had been a bit simple with all of his approaches, leading to only one solid hit against Tucker.
Ash certainly didn't feel tired, but Tucker's reasoning not to mention that results of this battle was proof that he wasn't at his best at the moment. Maybe he would need a longer break than one night's sleep.
"This is exactly why most trainers take a few months off before heading off to another Conference. To make sure their minds and Pokemon are back into the shape for the next challenge." Tucker went on, receiving a nod from Ash who had actually been planning to immediately head off to next Conference he would be able to participate in. "It's good to see that you're allowing your Pokemon to rest rather than pushing them to continue. You've got the right mentality right now. Your Pokemon always come first."
"Right."
"Stay sharp Ash, I see a bright future ahead of you. And Spenser just sent me a call to send you outside. They're waiting for you."
"Alright, thanks for the battle Tucker." Ash said as he began to make his way toward the exit. "In a few years I'll be back for an official battle with you."
"I'll be looking out for you." Tucker said as he gave Ash a wave.
Once Ash exited the Battle Dome, he was greeted by Spenser who was seated alone on a bench outside beside the front door, quietly humming to himself.
"Ah, hello Ash." Spenser said, motioning for him to sit beside him.
"Where's the student I was supposed to pick up?" Ash asked as he looked around.
"They had to use the restroom, so they'll be here soon Ash." Spenser informed him. "I watched some of your battles from the Indigo Conference Ash, and I'd like to know...how do you see the field?"
"See the field? What do you mean?" Ash asked.
"Like, do things appear slower to you, or something to that effect?" Spenser explained.
"Yeah, from time to time I get into the zone I guess. Usually when I'm really hyped up about a battle that happens." Ash replied.
"Ah, but you can't reach the state at will?"
"I don't think so…" Ash replied.
"Hmm…" Spenser trailed off. Perhaps he was expecting too much from Ash. Even the best trainers couldn't enter a mental zone so early in their career at will. It was something that would take time an experience to gain control of, and there was no use trying to rush the development of this skill within Ash.
The doors to the Battle Dome opened, gaining Ash and Spenser's attention as a rather short female stepped out of the building with an Espeon trailing behind her. She was a lavender haired beauty with long bangs that covered her forehead and picture perfect skin. She wore a pair of long pants that matched the color of her hair with a white and lavender jacket with the two colors being divided by multiple yellow strips. As soon as she stepped out of the door she raised the collar of her jacket to protect her neck and shoved her hands into her jacket pockets. Noticing Spenser and Ash, she approached the two of them with a small smile.
"Ah, there she is." Spenser said as he gave her a wave while Ash tilted his head, observing the girl.
"Good evening Spenser." She said kindly.
"It's good to see you Anabel, although this could possibly be the last time I see you for quite some time." Spenser replied warmly.
"Don't worry Spenser, I'll come back and visit." She promised before leaning over a bit to look at Ash. "Aren't you Ash Ketchum?"
"Yup."
"Congratulations on winning in the Indigo Conference." She said with a warm smile.
"Thank you." Ash replied.
"My name is Anabel Coletta, I'm a senior here." She said, introducing herself. "So I'm assuming you're the person from Silph Co that will be taking me to Kanto?"
"Mhmm." Ash said with a nod.
"Then shall we get going?"
"Slow down Anabel, I need to speak with Ash for a moment." Spenser cut in. "I was told that he had an Ivysaur near the back of the Battle Dome. Go fetch it for him."
"Sure thing." She replied before motioning for her Espeon to follow her around the building.
"She's a kind hearted girl." Spenser began once he was sure she was out of ear shot.
"So let me guess, she's the best in the entire Academy by a long shot." Ash said, receiving another chuckle from Spenser. The fact that she was being taken out of high school and straight to the professional circuit could only mean that she was a once in a generation talent that could take over the professional circuit.
"No, she's not."
"What?!" Ash exclaimed loudly. "Then she has to at least be in the Top 10."
"Nope." Spenser said as he shook his head.
"Top 20?"
Spenser continued to shake his head, causing Ash to frown.
"Then why is she being signed onto the Silph's Co franchise straight out of high school?"
Spenser remained quiet for a few moments, taking in a deep breath before looking down at the walking stick he held.
"She's…special." Spenser replied slowly.
"What do you mean?" Ash asked.
"She has, an ability." Spenser stated.
"An ability? Like what?"
"I can't go into details because Silph Co refused to tell me everything, but I know that Anabel is different from the average trainer. She's very in tune with people and Pokemon." Spenser explained, causing Ash to look up in thought.
It seemed rather strange that Silph Co was making a move like this. It was clear now that they were trying to avoid having the media take notice of this, but they were also trying to keep the Battle Academy in the dark as well.
"What do you mean by 'in tune?'" Ash asked as he set his gaze on Spenser again.
"There's not much I can say Ash." Spenser replied. "She's a special child, and I'm sure you'll witness what she's capable of soon enough."
"It was very nice to have you visit for today Ash. The students enjoyed your battle against Tucker." Spenser said as gave Ash a wave. Spenser, Max, Ash and Anabel stood at the main entrance to the Battle Frontier with their respective Pokemon beside them, quietly wishing each other farewell as the sun began to set.
"I know I did!" Max exclaimed, causing Ash to chuckle nervously as he rubbed the back of his neck.
"But I lost." Ash reasoned.
"And, you're the only person besides the other Frontier Brains to make Tucker use combination attacks." Max explained, getting a pair of raised eyebrows from Ash.
"Really?"
"What Max says is true Ash. Most people don't receive the honor of Tucker using combination attacks against them. It's proof that he was taking you seriously." Spenser added, causing Ash to look down in thought.
The Hall of Fame was still far away from him, but perhaps it wasn't as far as he had first imagined.
"Thanks, I'll keep that in mind." Ash replied with a grin which Spenser and Max returned.
"So are you ready to go?" Anabel asked, receiving a nod from Ash.
"Let's move, our flight leaves pretty soon anyway, not to mention it keeps getting colder out." Ash said before exhaling to show the fog his breath created.
"So long Spenser, I'll drop by to visit whenever I can." Anabel said as she and Ash began to move away, giving the older man a wave which he returned.
"Good luck in the professional circuit you two. I'll be looking out for both of you!" Max shouted as he waved both his arms.
"See ya!" Ash hollered as the distance between the two groups became too large for them to continue speaking to one another.
Soon enough the two of them were walking along a dirt pathway that would take them back to the airport as the skies darkened above them. Ash couldn't think of something to spark any conversation between them. He was much more focused on trying to observe Anabel as she silently walked beside him.
What made her so special?
A/N
Alright, now we've got things going in terms of actual content for the story. Anabel is the mystery person Ash came to Hoenn to get although I'm pretty sure the chapter title gave that away. There's a few things I want to say about her right now to straighten this out. She is not the Frontier Brain of the Battle Tower. Right now she is just a green trainer in need of experience and in possession of some strange ability that we'll begin to explore.
This chapter I had a bit of trouble with because I was trying to fit a lot of stuff into it. Portraying Anabel properly is kind of tricky if you ask me based on the fact that she only got a grand total of two episodes in the anime and her dialogue in the games is completely useless. But I've been rewatching the episodes she was in to at the very least get an idea of what she's like.
To those of you who are a bit surprised with Ash getting absolutely crushed by Tucker, there were a number of handicaps on Ash that made him easy prey for Tucker. He was using two Pokemon he's never used. The day before he had been battling at a very high level for several days so obviously he's going through a cool down period. Plus, I needed to bring him back down to earth considering he still has a ways to go before he can even take a sniff at the title of Pokemon Master. He's become a star at the point, but the Hall of Fame still sits above him. And then there are trainers even beyond that like Frontier Brains and the Elite Four. Just food for thought.
And if anyone has an opinion to share about Anabel's last name, please tell me. I had a very hard time trying to figure out what was a fitting last name for her, so if you have something to say, don't be afraid to tell me.
I want to apologize for taking so long with the update. My new schedule has been pretty hectic so far so I haven't had much time to write. Hopefully I'll adjust to it this week and get back to work again.
Anyway, thanks to everyone who reviewed the last chapter, and hopefully the next update won't take quite as long as this one did.
