Author's Note:
Here it is, the first of the Johto gym battles. I hope you guys like how it turned out and I have how I want all the other gyms to look already planned, while this one doesn't follow my plan for how Ash will approach them now, as a more experienced trainer, it will set the ground work and explain why I am going this way. I have also changed the poll, now it concerning Brock and his team of Pokemon. It will change again when I get to chapter 21. With that, let's get on with it…
Chapter 11: Ash VS Falkner: Feathered Fight
It was early in the morning, the morning that Ash and Jimmy planned to take on the Violet city gym leader. They both knew he specialised in flying type Pokemon but that was about it. While Ash knew he would go with Pikachu and Pidgeot, he wasn't sure if he sure if he should give Lapras a chance, her ice typing is clearly good against flying types, but he wasn't sure if she was ready mentally.
Ash's eyes blinked open as he saw his girlfriend cuddled up to his side. He smiled lightly at her before he turned his head towards the side where a clock was on the bed-side table. Seeing the time, he pulled Serena closer and closed his eyes. Of course, he is incredibly excited for his gym battle, but it is still really early, much too early to wake up and he can imagine Serena wouldn't be happy to be woken up at this time. It seems he is growing up over his journey.
Before he drifted off back to sleep, he leaned over and placed a kiss on Serena's forehead. Unfortunately, that action made Serena stir before her eyes blinked awake and then they landed softly on Ash as a light smile grew on her face. Ash was nervous as he didn't mean to wake her up right now.
"Good morning..." Serena greeted as she snuggled into Ash.
"Hehehe, morning Serena." Ash replied back, with a nervous chuckle. Serena easily noticed Ash's uneasiness and pushed herself up to look him in the eye.
"What's the matter Ash?" Serena asked.
"Err, well. I didn't actually mean to wake you up." Ash chuckled lightly, in an attempt to lighten the mood. "Ya see, it is still actually pretty early.".
Serena held a hand over her heart as she heard Ash speak. This would be his first gym battle since they started sharing a room together. Normally he would be up as early as possible on days like to day and spend the morning getting everyone ready, but he was just going to let her sleep and cuddle instead.
"Oh Ash, you have no idea how happy it has made me to hear that." Serena told her boyfriend, lovingly. Her hand moved over and cupped his check before she continued. "Since were both awake now anyway, how about we pass the time in a different way.".
Ash recognised the tone in her voice and realised she is in a playful mood. Before he had chance to respond, Serena leaned in and used her hand to guide Ash's head in her direction, making their lips collide. Ash didn't even have to think before he started pushing back to return the kiss.
Unfortunately, they were soon interrupted as the bedroom door burst open to reveal Jimmy already dressed and raring to go. It seems he is just as excited for the upcoming gym battle as Ash is, except he isn't able to contain his excitement. He is just like Ash was back at the start of his journey.
"Come on Ash, you need to get up alre-Gwa!" Jimmy cut himself off after registering what he walking in. The couple instantly pulled apart, bright red because they were caught in an intimate moment like that. Serena was the first to respond to the interruption.
"GET OUT!" Serena shouted, angry at the rude entrance and having her alone time interrupted. She also threw a pillow at Jimmy. The Johto native didn't need to be told twice and quickly ran out of the room, avoiding the pillow which was thrown at him, being sure to close the door behind him.
Both Ash and Serena were bright red after what happened. Serena didn't stay in the embarrassment filled room for long and got off the bed before collecting a clean set of clothes from the wardrobe. She made her way over to the bath, without a word. It was clear she was going for a shower and wasn't in the mood to talk.
Ash picked up the pillow Serena throw at Jimmy and placed it back on bed before getting dressed himself. If past interactions are anything to go by, Serena hates being embarrassed, hence he temper at the minute, but she is also very loving and has always been one to be quick to forgive and forget. Ash will go and get his Pokemon from Nurse Joy after their overnight check-up. He will also check on Jimmy as that must've been a tough situation for him to be in.
Soon Ash was outside with all his Pokeballs in hand. Pikachu was also stood in front of him and so was Togepi. Ash already explained to Togepi that he didn't think he was ready for a gym battle yet, but the fairy type still wanted to be a part of the pre-gym brief just like everyone else, even if not all of them are a part of the battle.
Ash took out each Pokeball one by one and released the remainder of his team. When Pidgeot appeared, she let out a loud battle cry to show she was ready for the battle, which Togepi attempted to imitate. Lapras let out an elegant cry, she isn't a big on battles as Pidgeot, but she wanted to show that she is also ready to battle if needed... while Snorlax was asleep. Heracross appear and stood quietly as he wanted to see what Ash had to say, while Chikorita wasted no time in rubbing her head against Ash's leg, causing everyone to sweat drop.
"I'm happy to see you too, Chikorita." Ash reassured, embarrassed by the affectionate grass type, she could give Gyarados a swim for his money. Deciding trying to get her to stop wasn't worth the time, Ash turned and looked at everyone else. "Okay guys, as you know today we are going for our first Johto gym battle.".
Pikachu, Pidgeot, Togepi, and even Lapras let out a cheer to show they were ready. Chikorita tilted her head in curiosity, she has heard Ash speak about 'gym battles' before but she never really knew what he was on about. Heracross was also curious about what it was... While Snorlax snored.
"What is a gym battle?" Chikorita finally asked.
"A gym battle is a battle against a strong trainer known as the gym leader to prove our strength, and as proof if we win we get a badge." Ash explained. "Once we have earnt all eight badges from the eight gym leaders of a region, we get to compete in that regions league against all the other trainers who earnt the badges.".
Chikorita listened with great intrigue, she is a massive battle lover and the chance to get to not only prove her own strength but also to help get to show what a great person Ash is, let alone how great he is in battle. She can see it now, they will win the Johto league together and she will be on his shoulder as he holds up the trophy while that annoying rat is out cold, by the Pokemon she beat just before she came out. It will something powerful too, which she defeats, like a Dragonite.
"The gym leader we are challenging today specialises in flying type Pokemon." Ash spoke up once again, snapping Chikorita out of her fantasy. "Pikachu, Pidgeot, you are both in the battle and the typical gym format is three on three. Of course, we do need to be aware in case he has any surprises but that still leaves one place left.".
"... I'll do it." Lapras spoke up, after a little internal debate.
"Are you sure Lapras?" Ash asked, scared that she wasn't ready after what happened to her parents, but he received a nod from her as confirmation. "Thanks girl, since you're an ice type, you'll have a type advantage. But I'll start with Pikachu and Pidgeot first since I kind of promised this battle to them first.".
"That's fine." Lapras replied, although she feels ready to get back out onto the battlefield she wouldn't want to stop her two friends after they have been looking forward to the battle for a while right now.
Chikorita was devastated, she is clearly the strongest Pokemon Ash has, regardless of type advantage. That loss to Snorlax when they first met was nothing more than a fluke. She is ready to show this gym leader who is best, flying type or not. Ash could sort of feel her feelings through and looked at her sympathetically.
"Sorry Chikorita but you haven't been around that long, so we haven't really been able to develop any sort of battle style we can both work with." Ash apologised, despite pushing his aura away whenever it shows itself recently, it still seems to do as it wants. "Tell you what, we will both work hard together, and you can have a chance to battle in our second Johto gym battle.".
It's not that Ash doesn't think she has a chance, she has certainly proved to be a strong Pokemon even when it comes to type disadvantages, but Ash hasn't had a proper chance to test her strength yet and knowing how not properly analysing a battle style can negatively affect a Pokemon, he just needs to look at his Ivysaur for that. Of course, he is mostly fine now but he has been putting off his evolution because of that mistake, not to mention the tough road they had to get to this point.
"One last thing guys, you have been here since we left Pallet town so Pidgeot, Lapras and Snorlax... If you even wake up today." Ash spoke up once more, muttering the last part with sarcasm. "I plan on swapping you out with some of the others at the lab... If your fine with that.".
Ash knew Pidgeot wouldn't have a problem with that, and neither would Snorlax... Considering how often he spends asleep, Ash doubted it would make much difference to him. Honestly, the last part was more directed at Lapras, she seemed to be getting more confident and her offering to take a place in the gym battle made Ash confident about her going back to the lab. Of course, he wouldn't force her if she doesn't want to but that is why he is asking right now.
Lapras kind of figured the last part was directed at her and she thought back to the journey since they left Pallet Town. Of course, she is grateful for how supportive and understanding Ash has been, but she also realised, while she has gotten comfort from being close to him, it would be selfish for her to keep the spot on his team while the others back at the lab wouldn't want to travel with him once again. With her mind made up, she put on a brave face and looked Ash in the eye.
"I am fine with going back, as well." Lapras told her trainer. Ash smiled at her before embracing her with a hug.
"Thank you, Lapras." Ash whispered in her ear. "And don't worry, I won't call over Dragonair just yet. So, she will be there for you.".
Ash knows out of all the Pokemon on his team that Lapras could've bonded with, the princess is the one she is closest too. It all goes all the way back to not long after Ash first caught her, when Dragonair taught her how to use Ice Beam. Since that moment, the two of them were close enough you might think they were sisters. It's not like Ash doesn't want to spend time with the dragon, it's just that Lapras would need support to adjust back at the lab.
With the pre-gym brief over, Ash recalled Pidgeot, Lapras, Snorlax, Heracross and Chikorita. Pikachu ran up Ash's body to his normal place on Ash's shoulder while Togepi stood tall by his daddy's side. Ash smiled at the fairy type before they made their way inside the centre to find the others. Ash was sure to take his time so Togepi didn't fall behind. Togepi maybe growing up but speed isn't his strong point.
Just as they were close to the doors, Jimmy came walking out of the building while his Weedle was on his head and Cyndaquil was walking by his side. Ash seemed to stop walking as Jimmy noticed him and blushed in embarrassment before making his way over to him.
"Um, hey Ash. I... I wanted to apologise for earlier." Jimmy nervously apologised.
"It's alright, Jimmy, I know you was excited for your first gym battle." Ash reassured. "And I know Serena understands it too, she just wanted to get out of the situation in the moment back when she shouted at you.".
"Thanks Ash. You rock, you rule." Jimmy replied with a bright smile and signature catch phrase. "So... Brock mentioned you would be doing your pre-gym brief, and I was sort of wondering what that was.".
"It's just a talk with my team, explaining what my plan for today's battle is and what we know about the gym leader, so you are all on the same page." Ash explained to the black-haired boy. "You should do the same with Weedle and Cyndaquil, as it helps the prepare for the match by knowing what is to come.".
"Okay then, um... so what do I tell them?" Jimmy asked.
"Normally I have them line up in front of me, simply so you can see them all at once." Ash explained. Jimmy nodded in understanding before looking at Cyndaquil who wandered a few feet away from him before turning to face his trainer. Jimmy also picked Weedle off his head and placed him next to his fire starter.
"Okay guys... Today we are going for our first gym battle." Jimmy nervously explained. "And, err...".
"Now tell them what you know about the gym leader." Ash advised. "Like what type they specialise in, or your guess for what the battle format will be.".
"Right... Well guys, the gym we are taking on specialises in flying types." Jimmy told his two Pokemon before something hit him. "Wait! I only just realised, neither of you have a real advantage over flying types... I mean, Cyndaquil, you should do alright but Weedle is at a massive disadvantage.".
"Hold on, Jimmy, there is a lot more than type advantage when it comes to a battle." Ash reassured. "Let me tell you about my first gym battle, it was a rock type gym and the only Pokemon I had at the time were Pikachu, Butterfree and Pidgeotto. Despite all of them being at a massive type disadvantage, we pulled through.".
"Really?" Jimmy asked, with surprise.
"Yep, and you might be in luck. Every flying type I have ever seen has had a second typing, which might make using Weedle more beneficial.".
"Right, thanks Ash." Jimmy thanked before turning back towards his two Pokemon. "And we can't be sure about what sort of battle format it will be, but from what the guys have said, it should be single battles... And I think they mentioned gym battles are normally three on three... Hold on...".
"Calm down, Jimmy. Yes, three on three is the most standard format but that isn't always the case, early gym battles would use less Pokemon as to not force a trainer to catch more simply for those battles and later gym battles might use more than three on three to test more Pokemon to ensure you're ready for the league.".
"Right, thanks Ash." Jimmy replied, sighing in relief once more.
"Now why don't you tell them what order you plan to send them out, so they understand your thinking." Ash suggested.
"Right..." Jimmy nodded in understand before turning back to his two Pokemon. "Okay guys, Weedle I want to start the battle with you since you're at a bigger type disadvantage and Cyndaquil, I will be saving you until last.".
The two Pokemon nodded in understanding. Jimmy smiled as he realised he just gave his first pre-gym brief. Of course, he wasn't very sure what to but that was why Ash was here to help him. Not to mention, Misty and Brock helped Ash with the same thing back at the start of his journey. With that part of the day over, Jimmy returned his two Pokemon and the two trainers made their way to their friends, so they could finally go to the first of the Johto gyms.
After meeting back up with the group they made their way towards the Violet city gym. Just like Ash predicted, once Jimmy apologised to Serena, she was quick to forgive and forget the whole situation. The group were confused as to what Jimmy was apologising for but decided not to ask to many questions as it isn't really there business.
The group soon made it to the Violet city gym, despite the city have several tall buildings on the way to the gym, the gym itself is by far the tallest one around. Just looking at the sky scraper from the bottom, the group couldn't make out the top of the building. Although they did notice two showed flying high in the air, they were too far away to make out properly they appeared to land at the top of the building.
"It says in the guild book that the gym battles take place at the top of the tower." Brock informed, as he closed the guide book, putting it away.
Ash smiled at that, if you wanted the perfect field for flying types, the sky is probably the best you could get. One great thing about every gym they have been too, is the fact that they are all unique and thus it made each visit to a gym just as unique and special as well. Filled with excitement the boys lead the way into the gym.
As they made their way inside, they saw a couple of men dressed in robes cleaning the floor. Upon noticing the group enter, one of them men whispered something to the other before he made his way over to the group. Despite the old-wise robes, the man was quite young, a young teenager in fact.
"Hello, welcome to the Violet City gym." The man greeted with a bow to the group. The group didn't quite know how to respond so they mimicked his gesture as to not be rude. "Tell me, have you all come here to learn the wonderful ways of flying types from Falkner?".
"Actually, both Jimmy & I are here for a gym battle." Ash explained.
"Ah, so that would explain the elder's visit this morning." The boy noted. "Normally, I would inform you that Falkner asks all challengers to visit the Sprout Tower before he battles them. Of course, it isn't required but it seems you have already been there.".
"Right, we visited it yesterday." Jimmy informed.
"Very well then, please follow me." The boy replied before turning around and walking towards a lift.
The group walked behind him in silence, but it wasn't awkward, being lead into the lift, the boy pressed the button labled roof and soon the lift began going up at a modest pace. The group were amazed by the back of the lift being a glass window which looked out over Violet City. It was actually quite a magical sight being able to see the city from this sight. They could make out pretty much all of it, including the Sprout Tower and Pokemon Centre. The view was breath taking.
Soon the lift came to a stop at the very top of the tower. Although the group struggled to tear their gaze away from the view, they made their way out into a large room which showed a man in his early twenties stood in the middle of a battle field giving some sort of speech to a group on teenagers dressed just like the boy who brought them up here.
"Falkner, you have a couple of challengers today." The boy informed as he lead the group to the battle field. The group split apart as to allow the twenty-year-old in the middle to walk towards the group. With Falkner here, the boy that brought them up returned to the lift, presumably to return to cleaning on the bottom floor.
"It's a pleasure to meet you all." Falkner greeted with a warm smile and bow. "As he said, I am Falkner, the Violet City gym leader.".
"Hello Falkner, my name is Ash Ketchum from Pallet Town." Ash introduced himself. "And I am here to win a badge from you.".
"I'm Jimmy from New Bark Town, and I am also here to win a badge." Jimmy added, also filled with enthusiasm. Although his eye wondered over to the Pidgeot which was on the battle field and was also standing tall. It was much bigger and bulkier than Ash's and his is super powerful as it is. This made Jimmy nervous.
"New Bark Town..." Falkner mused. "So, I take it this is your first gym battle?".
"Um yeah." Jimmy replied nervously as he continued to eye the big Pidgeot. It didn't take a genius to figure out what had Jimmy so nervous.
"Don't worry about Pidgeot, in that case. I save him for the challengers who have at least four badges or more." Falkner informed. "It wouldn't be fair to have you face one of my strongest Pokemon this early in your journey.".
"Right, thank you." Jimmy replied, sighing in relief.
"I have to say, your Pidgeot looks really strong." Ash commented. "I have one myself.".
"They are very brave and loyal Pokemon." Falkner smiled back at his normal flying type. "So, if you are from Pallet Town, I take it that means this isn't your first gym battle, Ash.".
"Well, it is my first Johto gym battle, but I have already competed in both the Indigo League and the Orange League." Ash explained.
"Very well, in situations like this, I normally challenge you with my four-badge team." Falkner explained. "Is this suitable for you?".
"Sounds good." Ash smiled.
"So, which one of us will battle first?" Jimmy asked.
"If it is all the same to you, Ash, I would like to take Jimmy's challenge first." Falkner informed. "As I am sure you know, it can be intimidating for a new trainer to watch a future opponent with much stronger Pokemon than what they will be facing. I like all my challengers to be in the right mind-frame.".
"That is completely fine with me." Ash replied. It makes sense as Ash will likely be facing that Pidgeot at some point and seeing Falkner battle with that powerful Pokemon could be intimidating for Jimmy or any new trainer. With the decision made, Ash and the others went to the side of the field.
Falkner returned his Pidgeot and placed the Pokeball on his belt, he isn't going to use him against Jimmy and he doesn't want to leave him out as a sort of distraction for Jimmy, it would give him an unfair advantage. One of the teenagers who looked about sixteen took the place of the ref as both Jimmy and Falkner took their place in each trainer's box respectively. While the rest of the group went to a couple benches at the side of the field.
"The gym battle between the Violet city gym leader, Falkner, and his challenger, Jimmy from New Bark Town." The ref declared. "Each side may use two Pokemon and the battle will be over when both Pokemon on either side is deemed unable to continue. Furthermore, the gym leader shall reveal his Pokemon first and is unable to substitute his Pokemon while the challenger may make substitutions at any time.".
"Take to the skies, Murkrow!" Falkner shouted as he threw his Pokeball into the air. In a flash of light, the small bird appeared in the air, with blue feathers, a yellow beak and some sort of hat shape on his head. Jimmy pulled out his Pokedex and scanned his opponent:
Murkrow, The Darkness Pokemon. Murkrow was feared and loathed as the alleged bearer of ill fortune. This Pokémon shows strong interest in anything that sparkles or glitters. It will even try to steal rings from women.
Jimmy breathed a sigh of relief as he realised Murkrow is also part dark type. While not perfect, this was probably the best he could've hoped for considering his first Pokemon. He maybe at a disadvantage but it isn't a complete lost cause. "You're up, Weedle!".
In a flash of light, the orange hairy bug appeared on the battlefield and looked at his opponent. It blinked once and then twice. He wasn't scared by the predator he would be facing, in fact Weedle only has one thought right now... What's for lunch? Seriously, his appetite could give Snorlax a run for his money.
"Are you sure you want to battle a flying type gym leader with a bug type?" Falkner asked with a sweat drop, having a hard time to decide if Jimmy is confident or arrogant.
"Well... I only have two Pokemon, so I would have to use Weedle at some point." Jimmy explained with a nervous chuckle.
Falkner nodded in understanding, so it was neither confidence or arrogance. Of course, Jimmy probably does have confidence in his Weedle but not to the over confident point. Falkner doesn't doubt Jimmy knows he is at a disadvantage but seeing how he over comes that disadvantage is part of the challenge.
"Murkrow VS Weedle... Begin!" The ref declared.
Falkner VS Jimmy (P. I):
"Alright Weedle, let's start with a Poison Sting attack!" Jimmy shouted.
The orange bug type aimed his stinger on the top of his head as it glew purple. Soon a barrage of small purple stingers flew out of it, towards Murkrow. After quite a bit of accuracy training, Weedle's aim was pretty on but Murkrow was quick and flew out of the way.
"Quick, switch to String Shot!" Jimmy instructed.
Weedle ended his Poison sting attack before lifting his head and firing out a string shot. Like before, Weedle's accuracy was pretty on point and this time Weedle had more control over his move once it was fired due to it being one continuous attack. The string hit Murkrow's foot.
Due to its stickiness, Murkrow couldn't get it to off his foot so he did the next best thing. Not giving Weedle chance to detach his mouth from the String Shot, Murkrow took off, dragging Weedle into the air. In all honesty, it looked like some sort of fun ride for Weedle.
"Take it up a notch, Murkrow!" Falkner instructed.
Murkrow's wings glew white and spread wide as he prepared to use Aerial Ace but instead of going in to strike Weedle, he began soaring around the field in a faster and more skilled style, which had a negative effect on Weedle who looked ready to be sick from the fast jarring motion.
Jimmy began to panick as he knew this was going to make Weedle dizzy. He has seen Ash battle a bunch of times and is fairly sure he would do much better if this was a direct battle with using moves in the normal fashion, but Falkner is a gym leader and is challenging Jimmy by using less traditional styles of battle. The main problem is, Weedle has two long ranged attacks and one short ranged. He doesn't have much in terms of options right now.
"Use Poison Sting, Weedle, and use your String Shot to guide it!" Jimmy shouted in a panick.
Weedle was looking very dizzy from being flown around the battlefield like he has been but the stinger on top of his head glew purple once more. Despite being dizzy, he was able to use his string shot as a guide of where to shoot his stinger and another barrage of Poison Stings shot out, this time hitting Murkrow head on.
This made Murkrow cry out in pain as he came to a stop. Suddenly his whole body glew purple as he took poison damage. This stop also allowed Weedle the chance to detach his mouth from the String Shot. Weedle landed on the ground, not tacking much damage from the landing due to his small size but he was still dizzy after the rough ride he was on. Falkner smirked as Murkrow flew in front of him.
"Well, it seems you got lucky with the poison." Falkner commented, not meaning to sound rude but Poison Sting only has a chance to poison so he isn't wrong. "This means I'll have to finish it quicker, for Murkrow's sake.".
Jimmy didn't like the sound of that. Sure, the poison was a lucky break, but it also means Falkner is now going to give the direct battle he previously wanted although seeing how disorientated his bug type is, that is probably the worst thing for them right now.
"Peck!" Falkner shouted with authority.
"Weedle, I need you to come to your senses!" Jimmy pleaded, in a panick.
Although Jimmy's pleads fell on deaf ears as Weedle was waddling back and forth, still not sure of which way was forward. Murkrow, despite still suffering from the poison, had his beak glow white and grow in size before diving down to the bug. The flying dark type struck Weedle with his beak knocking the bug poison type across the ground. Fortunately, that blow seemed to bring Weedle to his senses while also causing a lot of damage.
Not needing to be told what to do next, Murkrow spread his wings which also glew white as his beak returned to normal. Shooting forward towards the bug poison type, as he took more damage from the poison, Murkrow used a second Aerial Ace this match.
"Brace yourself, Weedle!" Jimmy shouted. "And try to use Bug Bite!".
Murkrow continued to use Aerial Ace and had his wing collide with Weedle but instead of sending him flying like last time, Weedle used his naturally sticky suction cups to hold onto the wing. As Murkrow had the Aerial Ace come to an end, due to him taking more poison damage, Weedle took his chance.
Being made even hungrier by this battle, Weedle had no issue using this move at all. He is almost down so he will put everything he has into this last attack. Opening his mouth, a wide as possible, two large pointed teeth grew out of it. Weedle than bite down hard on the bird he hitched a ride on, for the second time.
Murkrow, who had gained some altitude as Weedle prepared his Bug Bite attack, cried out in pain. The move was neutral due to his duel dark flying type but the darkness Pokemon is really starting to get tired due to the poison so that move was just the icing on the cake. Wanting the bug to stop, Murkrow began frantically flapping his wing around before Weedle finally went flying off.
"Weedle, use Poison Sting!" Jimmy shouted.
Turning his body in the air, Weedle prepared to launch another Poison Sting direct at Murkrow. Both Falkner and Murkrow know that due to the poison damage he has already taken, Murkrow would be in no position to dodge the incoming attack... Except they have a move for this precise situation.
"Sucker Punch!" Falkner hollered.
Just before Weedle could fire off his Poison Sting attack, Murkrow disappeared before reappearing behind Weedle with one of his wings having a black outline. The dark flying type slammed his wing into Weedle, sending him hurdling towards the ground, also cancelling the Poison Sting. Weedle landed with a small dust cloud with disappeared after a few seconds revealing Weedle with swirls in his eyes. Murkrow landed on Falkner's shoulder as the call was made.
"Weedle is unable to battle." The ref declared. "Meaning the first round goes to Falkner and Murkrow.".
"Return Weedle..." Jimmy recalled his fallen bug poison type, devastated by the turn of events, meaning his whispered the next part. "I'm... Sorry.".
Jimmy held the Pokeball containing his Weedle in front of his face as his eyes watered. To begin with, he thought that Weedle was a lost cause in this battle but as it kept going, he began to honestly believe they would have a chance to turn it around but that thought came crashing down with Weedle. Just the fact they were that close and still failed makes this that much more painful.
"You know, Jimmy, you shouldn't feel bad about the turn of events. That was the closest a bug type has come to defeating me in a fair one on one battle, where we scaled to the same level." Falkner explained. "Your Weedle did incredibly well and almost won too, which is very impressive for it in a flying type gym.".
"... Thank you, Falkner." Jimmy replied, shocked by the kind words.
"As a matter of fact, I hope you don't take this as an insult Jimmy, but I am calling Murkrow unfit to continue." Falkner informed everyone, before taking out the Pokeball and turning towards his dark flying type. "Take a nice long rest, friend.".
"Murkrow was deemed unable to battle by his trainer, thus shall not be allowed to participate in the future rounds of this battle." The ref declared. "Now that both trainers only have one Pokemon remaining, the gym leader shall yet again reveal his Pokemon first.".
Jimmy looked at the gym leader with both surprise and feeling a little offended, did he only do that, so Jimmy would have a fair chance going into the last round, meaning his last Pokemon only had to beat one Pokemon, not two. Falkner seemed to be able to read his mind.
"No Jimmy, the fact now the battle is evened up for you had no impact in my decision to retire Murkrow early." Falkner informed. "A trainers first and most important priority is the wellbeing of their Pokemon. The same goes for gym leaders. The truth is, no-matter the small advantage I might've gained from having Murkrow battle your last Pokemon first, it wasn't worth the risk Murkrow was at, due to him taking heavy damage and suffering from poison.".
Jimmy's expression to one of surprise before realisation. Falkner is a gym leader, of course he wouldn't purposely make a challengers battle easier for that alone reason, it was just a by-product of ensuring his Murkrow's well-being. With that cleared up, Falkner drew his second Pokeball.
"Take to the skies, Doduo!" Falkner shouted as he threw his Pokeball into the air. In a flash of light, the medium sized bird with two heads appeared in the air, with brown feathers, a two long legs and a round plump body. Jimmy pulled out his Pokedex and scanned his opponent:
Doduo, The Twin Bird Pokemon. Doduo's two heads contain completely identical brains. A scientific study reported that on rare occasions, there will be examples of this Pokémon possessing different sets of brains.
Jimmy breathed a sigh of relief as he as the normal flying type, while he knows a gym leaders Pokemon won't be easy, this one does give him some sort of an advantage. "You're up, Cyndaquil!".
In a flash of light, the fire mouse Pokemon appeared on the battlefield. He stared at his two opponents with a blank expression, and the flame on his back wasn't even lit. As Doduo entered a battle stance, Cyndaquil tilted his head in a confused manner. "Quil?".
"Oh, come on Cyndaquil. Lite your flame already." Jimmy instructed. Doing as he was told, the fire type let out a small battle cry as his back burst into flames, despite being very laid back, Cyndaquil can battle when needed. "Alright, now we should have a bit of an easier time then we did against Murkrow since Doduo can't fly.".
"Really?" Falkner asked with surprise, before letting out a small chuckle. "You think Doduo can't fly?".
"Of course, everyone knows that." Jimmy replied, matter-of-factly.
"Hehehe, well if that is what everyone thinks then I guess everyone is wrong." Falkner chuckled as a smirk appeared on his face.
"Wait! You mean yours can?!" Jimmy exclaimed. Although Falkner didn't respond this time and just let the ref start the battle.
"Doduo VS Cyndaquil... Begin!" The ref declared.
Falkner VS Jimmy (P. II):
"Into the air." Falkner was the first to start the battle, not even giving Jimmy the chance this time. "And then go straight into a Jump Kick.".
Before Falkner even finished giving his command, Doduo jumped high into the air, so much so that there was a good chance Doduo would crash into the ceiling but the twin bird Pokemon was able to turn her body, so her feet touched the roof.
Everyone had the realisation that Falkner meant his Doduo could jump high enough into the air and move so freely in the air that it was like she was flying. Kicking off the roof, she used gravity to her advantage as she flipped over once more so now her foot was stretched out ready to collide with the fire type.
"Dodge it, Cyndaquil!" Jimmy shouted.
Doduo came crashing down where Cyndaquil was stood a moment later, but the fire type was able to jump back. Unfortunately, the momentum built up around Doduo from her fall expanded outwards after the impact, which blew Cyndaquil back. The fire type skidded across the ground before coming to a stop.
"Quick Attack!" Falkner shouted.
In the blink of an eye, the normal flying type shot across the ground almost unseeable, except for Pikachu who was able to easily follow the fast-moving twin bird Pokemon. He even muttered something about having a quicker Quick Attack. Togepi was the only one to respond to the electric type, by giving him a hug.
As Cyndaquil attempted to push himself out of the dirt, he was tackled at a fast speed by Doduo. A second later he crashed into the wall, having taking some massive damage from the blow. Although he was far from out. Jimmy knew he had to keep Doduo at bay, but how... Then it hit him.
"Quick Cyndaquil, use Flame Charge but don't attack and just keep the fire around you." Jimmy instructed.
As Cyndaquil wearily stood up after crashing into the wall, he began stomping his feet which caused a dust cloud to surround him. Soon he shot out, covered in flames but instead of aiming for Doduo, he just kept running around the field, building up his own speed.
Falkner smiled at the strategy, not only is he counting Doduo's speed advantage but is also protecting Cyndaquil from any sort of physical attack. Although it is a nice strategy, especially for a new trainer going after their first badge, this is far from the first time he has had to deal with this or something similar.
"Just stand still Doduo and use Work Up continually." Falkner instructed, remaining calm all the time.
Falkner likes to do this when his opponent feel like they have taken the upper hand, by remaining calm it puts his opponents on edge and high alert as they realise he has some sort of counter. It may sound like a cruel thing to do but he is here to test his challengers after all.
Doduo closed her eyes and began to meditate as both her attack and special attack stats increased. Jimmy began to panick, Doduo had a powerful attack stat before based on both her Jump Kick and Quick Attack. Knowing he couldn't let Doduo set up too much, Jimmy made his call.
"Stay away and use Ember!" Jimmy shouted.
Falkner smirked as he didn't need to tell Doduo what to do. One down side to the new trainers is that there Pokemon aren't very skilled at using multiple moves at the same time. Plus, new trainers have to give more instructions to their Pokemon. While these things are solved over time, it does put them at a bigger disadvantage.
Cyndaquil quite running and the flame charge around him was cancelled as he opened his mouth and shot out a barrage of Embers at the twin bird Pokemon. The fire balls were about to hit the meditating Doduo but a second before impact, Doduo moved out of the way and started running towards the fire type.
She wasn't using Quick Attack like before as everyone, not just Pikachu, was able to easily follow her. Before Jimmy could call out the order to dodge or even before Cyndaquil had the chance to cancel his Ember, Doduo appeared next to the fire mouse Pokemon before striking him with both her beaks. She used Fury Attack.
"Cyndaquil!" Jimmy shouted out, worried for his friend.
Unfortunately, Doduo wasn't done yet. Now she has to turn up the pressure and unleashed more powerful jabs at the fire type as she continued her Fury Attack, which the fire mouse Pokemon was unable to dodge. Jimmy watched in horror as his started took one jab after another, the black-haired boy also seemed to lose his voice as water filled his eyes. Eventually, Cyndaquil fell down, which was the only for Doduo to finally end her attack. The ref made his call.
"Cyndaquil is unable to battle." The ref declared. "Meaning the battle goes to the gym leader, Falkner.".
Jimmy was devastated, unable to speak he held his Pokeball out and returned his fire type. Tears ran down his cheek as he realised that he just lost his first gym battle, and his friends got presumably badly hurt for no reason. Falkner gave a warning about that, when he took Murkrow out of the battle himself, but he didn't do the same for his Pokemon. His eyes darted around the room until he noticed a door leading to a stair case, closer than the lift.
Acting on his instinct, Jimmy bolted towards the door and ignored his friends who called out to him. He just needs to be alone. He needs to think about where he went wrong and more than anything, he wants to be alone. While the Kanto group understood, Marina looked disheartened.
"... Jimmy." She whispered, hurt that he just ignored her.
"Jimmy just needs time to process what just happened, everyone takes a loss with a hard time." Serena informed, in hopes to comfort her friend. "Maybe you should go and see him... He might need the moral support.".
Marina nodded and stood up before going off in the same direction Jimmy left from. Unlike Jimmy, she has no issue admitting she has feelings for him, but she understands that he is nervous around the subject, thus she hasn't outright admitted it to him, it would likely cause him to freak out, in all honesty.
Going through the door towards the staircase, she found Jimmy sat against the wall, opposite to the stairs. His knees are up, and his head is leaning against them as he held his two Pokeballs in front of him. From the sounds coming from him, it is clear that he is crying.
"Jimmy?" Marina questioned.
Once he heard her voice, Jimmy looked up with both shock and surprise. He quickly put the two Pokeballs into his pocket. He also used his sleeve to dry both his eyes as he jumped back to his feet trying to act cool in front of her.
"Oh, hey Marina. What are you doing here?" Jimmy asked, in a slightly rushed manner, acting like he wasn't just crying.
"I came to see how you are holding up, after... Ya know." Marina replied, taking a step forward.
At the mention of his loss, Jimmy broke down once more and began to cry. Marina embraced him into a hug, putting on a brave face was how she reacted back when she lost to Serena in the Cherrygrove contest. Jimmy began crying into her shoulder as she whispered that everything would be okay and soothed his back. It took about five minutes give or take until Jimmy calmed down and the embrace ended.
"Thank you, Marina... I really needed that." Jimmy thanked, with the hint of pink in his cheeks.
"Anytime, Jimmy. We will be travelling together, after all, so we need to be sure to be here for each other." Marina replied with a faint smile. "And you was here for me after the Cherrygrove Contest.".
The two just stared at each other, lost in the moment. They each took a step closer to each other, with their heads slowly leaning into each other. Their lips were about to connect when... They heard the others voices of the battle room.
Jimmy jumped back as his mind began to race with thoughts. What was he going to do?! Nani! Marina cursed her luck under her breath, this was the closest she has gotten to Jimmy confessing, or at the very least admitting his feelings... but guess that will have to wait for another time.
"I-it sounds like Ash's battle is about to start, we don't want to miss it." Jimmy told his friend before making his way back to the main battle. Marina sighed before following him. They soon came back to find Ash and Falkner in some sort of discussion.
"You've probably heard a lot of people say a flying type is easily countered by an electric type." Falkner commented, clearly they were appearing in the middle of some sort of conversation. "It always makes me mad when people insult flying types like that.".
"I know what you mean, Falkner." Misty commented. "People say the same about water types but I've proven time and again that isn't the case.".
That comment about electric types didn't sit right with one particular member of the group... Pikachu. He mumbled something Ash thought was best not translated as he took up a battle stance. He would show this guy why people say electric types fry the fliers.
"Um, Falkner. I think you offend my Pikachu with that comment." Ash pointed out with a sweat drop.
"I meant no disrespect, Pikachu." Falkner reassured. "But my Pokemon have come with so many counters to electric types, it wouldn't exactly be a fair fight.".
That only made Pikachu madder.
"I think that only made matters worse." Ash informed, as Pikachu sparked his cheeks. "I think this will only get settled in battle.".
"That's fine with me, our battle shall be three on three." Falkner informed as he returned to his battle box. Ash also took his place in the battle box with Pikachu following him while the rest of the group went back to the benches.
"Everything okay?" Serena whispered to Marina.
"Tell you later." Marina whispered back, Serena nodded in understanding.
"The gym battle between the Violet city gym leader, Falkner, and his challenger, Ash from Pallet Town." The ref declared. "Each side may use three Pokemon and the battle will be over when both Pokemon on either side is deemed unable to continue. Furthermore, the gym leader shall reveal his Pokemon first and is unable to substitute his Pokemon while the challenger may make substitutions at any time.".
"Take to the skies, Crobat!" Falkner shouted as he threw his Pokeball into the air. In a flash of light, the medium sized purple bat like Pokemon appeared. Ash can remember facing one back at the Fuchsia gym but that one evolved in the battle and was already tired. Wanting a refresh on it, he scanned the poison flying type:
Crobat, The Bat Pokemon. The final evolved form of Zubat. If this Pokémon is flying by fluttering only a pair of wings on either the forelegs or hind legs, it's proof that Crobat has been flying a long distance. It switches the wings it uses if it is tired.
"I choose you, Pikachu!" Ash called out as Pikachu jumped onto the field, taking up a battle stance while sparking his cheeks. It's not like he has a real choice in who he would use, considering Pikachu is offend by this gym leader and he previously told Pikachu and Pidgeot they would get a chance to battle.
Just like one would expect, Eevee let herself out of her Pokeball so she could watch her boyfriend battle. Even since getting to Johto, her little Pika has been doubling down on his training. He claims it's because of his loss to that Ditto in the Orange League but she doesn't buy it, somehow. Still, time to see if all that training has paid off for him.
"Crobat VS Pikachu... Begin." The ref declared.
Falkner VS Ash (P. I):
"Mean Look." Falkner instructed.
Crobat, who had been flying around in circles at very fast speeds, locked eyes with Pikachu who was tracking the Bat Pokemon. A sort of red beam linked up between the two Pokemon, now Pikachu was unable to battle. Not like it had a massive effect on the electric type, he has no plans on running.
Sparking his cheeks, Pikachu doesn't need to be told how to start this battle. A field of electricity surrounded the mouse Pokemon before a powerful Thunderbolt shot up towards the poison flying type. Although Crobat was so fast that he avoided the electric move completely. Ash knew long ranged moves would be a stretch.
"Get some air, Pikachu, with Iron Tail!" Ash instructed.
Pikachu coated his tail in metal before swinging his appendage over his head. The Iron Tail struck the ground and the kinetic energy rebounded, pushing Pikachu into the air. Mastering the sweet spot of when to power down his Iron Tail so it couldn't weigh him down. The Iron Tail was cancelled as Pikachu went flying.
Seeing Pikachu up in his own element, Crobat smirked. The mouse can't fly and thus is at a disadvantage. Turning towards his prey, the Bat Pokemon aimed a Wing Attack at the airborne electric type. Shooting forward, Crobat struck Pikachu head on. Little did they know, this was Ash's plan.
"Thunder Wave!" Ash instructed.
As weak electrical field appeared around Pikachu, Crobat was unable to change direction. Due to his natural Static ability, Pikachu didn't need much effort to expand the electric field stored in his cheeks. Of course, a more powerful move like Thunderbolt, requires more of a build-up but this is why Thunder Wave doesn't cause any damage, it is a move only used to inflict Paralysis.
Crobat flew straight into the electric field surrounding Pikachu and a second later he scummed to paralysis. His Wing Attack was cancelled as he crashed into the ground, Pikachu took on more of a graceful landing next to the poison bat Pokemon. Knowing what move he wanted to use next, Pikachu surrounded himself with electricity as he charged at the grounded opponent. He was using Wild Charge.
"Confuse Ray!" Falkner instructed.
As Pikachu went running up to him, Crobat opened his eyes and released a sort of hypnotic gaze at the electric type, just like how Crobat couldn't avoid the Thunder Wave thanks to his speed, Pikachu was unable to move out of the way of the Confuse Ray. The ghost type caused Pikachu to become confused.
Wavering off his straight shot from Crobat, Pikachu ran into the wall head first, completing his Wild Charge attack. Ash knew how to handle a confused Pokemon, after hearing how it effects his Pokemon first hand, it seems to fool their sense of sight. Pikachu continued to bang his head into the wall, thinking he was finishing off Crobat after landing a powerful Wild Charge. While also causing damage to himself.
"Close your eyes Pikachu, then shoot a Thunderbolt up into the air." Ash instructed.
Pikachu did exactly that, the moment his eyes closed his head became sort of clear once more and he was able to build up a Thunderbolt before shooting it straight up above him. Crobat was struggling to take off once more, now that he was sort of use to the paralysis feeling, albeit he was much slower.
Crobat needed to use all four legs to even have the chance of taking off once more. Still, he was no-where near the Thunderbolt so Falkner was confused as to why Ash would have the Thunderbolt shoot straight up, without a target wouldn't it dissipate into the thin air? Then something shocking happened. The Thunderbolt looped in the air and struck Pikachu. With no set target, Pikachu's lightening rod ability drew it back to himself.
The Thunderbolt hit Pikachu which seemed to charge him back up, the fresh energy boost also revitalised his whole body, knocking the confusion out of his system, sort of like how Ash used water in the past to wake other Pokemon up from confusion.
Pikachu opened his eyes looked ready while Crobat was still struggling in the air. With a new move under his belt, Pikachu had his tail glow with electricity before a sort of ball appeared at the tip. It almost looked like a shadow battle but yellow, and once it reached a certain point Pikachu swung his tail over his head and launched the projectile electrical ball at Crobat, who was in no position to dodge. The attack exploded around Crobat, who fell to the ground, with swirls in his eyes.
"Crobat is unable to battle." The ref declared. "Meaning the battle goes to the challenger, Ash.".
"What-What did that move?" Ash asked no-one in particular, meanwhile Falkner returned his fallen Crobat with some words of thanks, as Ash scanned it with his Pokedex:
Move: Electro Ball is an electric projectile move which has more power the quicker the user is compared to their target.
"Electro Ball." Ash mused as he put his Pokedex away. "Cool Pikachu, you've learned Electro Ball.".
"Ya know, using Electro Ball after Thunder Wave is a pretty good strategy as paralysis effects the Pokemon's speed and Electro Ball causes more damage based on the speed difference." Brock explained, Ash happened to hear this as well and made a mental note to remember the combo.
"Well, it is time for my second Pokemon. But your Pikachu won't be as lucky this time." Falkner commented as he took out a second Pokeball. "Take to the skies, Xatu!".
In a flash of light, a green condor-like Pokemon with long, red-and-black tipped white wings that cover most of its front. Underneath its wings are designs that resemble red eyes. Along with its main green coloration, its design has accents of black, yellow, and red. It has almond eyes, a long, slightly hooked beak, and two long, red feather crests. It's feet have only two toes, one in front and one in back. It didn't look much like a flier to anyone in the group. Ash scanned it:
Xatu, The Mystic Pokemon. The final evolved form of Natu. Xatu is known to stand motionless while staring at the sun all day long. Some people revere it as a mystical Pokémon out of their belief that Xatu is in possession of the power to see into the future.
"I am sticking with Pikachu." Ash informed both the ref and his opponent.
"Xatu VS Pikachu... Begin!" The ref declared.
Falkner VS Ash (P. II):
"Alright Pikachu, let's start off with Thunderbolt!" Ash called out, pumped after winning the first round and Pikachu learning a new move.
It might seem weird that both the battle against Crobat and Xatu are starting with Pikachu using the same move but there is a good reason for this. This move is sort of like Pikachu's speciality, let alone it's his favourite move so it just feels right to start the battle with it.
An electric field covered Pikachu's body as a large bolt of electricity shot out towards Xatu. Although the weird part was, neither Falkner looked the least bit intimidated. The gym leader didn't even attempt to make a counter move. That was because Xatu didn't need to be told what to do, as she already knows what to do.
A moment before the Thunderbolt hit Xatu, the psychic flying type's eyes glew yellow and a yellow box appeared around her. Once the bolt of electricity was close enough, a yellow box appeared around Xatu, halving the power of the Thunderbolt outright. Xatu had used Light Screen.
"Wild Charge!" Ash shouted, realising special moves wouldn't do anything to help against Xatu now.
Pikachu coated his body in electricity before he shot off towards Xatu, ready to land a powerful physical move. Although yet again neither Falkner or Xatu looked the least bit intimidated. Before Ash could question why, he found his answer.
Like before, Xatu didn't need to be told what to do. Although the Light Screen had turned invisible, Ash knew it was still active, so his special moves wouldn't work still. Her eyes glew a light grey colour this time and another box covered her body. This time she used Reflect.
Pikachu slammed into the box but bounced off, he might've caused some minor damage to the Mystic Pokemon, but he took more damage himself than what he did to the psychic flying type. Ash cursed under his breath as now Pikachu doesn't have any attacks to help take it down due to having double screens set up.
"Use Psychic on yourself." Falkner instructed.
Xatu's eyes glew blue as a light blue psychic light covered her body. Due to it not only being her own attack but also a psychic type move, she didn't take any sort of damage from the move, but she was able to levitate herself in the air. Although not moving that fast, it did mean she wasn't ground-bounded like her looks might make you think. It is sort of like how Falkner was able to make Doduo 'fly' despite being a flightless bird.
Ash looked on with slight panick, he doesn't want to switch Pikachu out as he is still doing pretty good in terms of strength and both Pidgeot and Lapras will struggle to get through both screens. So how can he get through them? If he waits for them to fade out naturally, Xatu could just replace them.
"Hey Ash, I have a plan." Pikachu informed his trainer with a confident smirk.
"Okay Pikachu, I trust you." Ash told his best friend. "Do it!".
Pikachu smirked before he coated his Tail in Metal and used it to launch himself up into the air just like he did previously against Crobat. Due to Xatu not being that fast, she wasn't able to move away from Pikachu before he was right on top of her. Ash was confused as what could he possibly do from up there?
"Brick Break!" Pikachu shouted as he brought his tail down on Xatu. Pikachu thought one thing as his tail smashed through both screens. "So that's why trainers call out attacks, it feels so awesome.".
Falkner, due to not being able to translate Pokemon speech didn't know what Pikachu was doing until it was too late. He saw the electric types tail smash through both screens and he knew there was only one move capable of that, Brick Break. Needless to say, Ash was just as surprised, did Pikachu just learn two moves in one battle?
Although Brick Break itself wouldn't cause much damage to Xatu, the combination of Pikachu's natural strength, plus the gravity adding to the attacks momentum and Xatu's surprise at the move was enough to knock Xatu back down to the ground, breaking her Psychic infused flight. Pikachu landed in front of the downed psychic flying type, with sparked cheeks.
"Thunderbolt!" Pikachu shouted at the top of his voice.
He has been denied his favourite move in this battle for far too long. With a powerful blast of electricity, Pikachu launched the powerful Thunderbolt at his downed target. Not giving her the chance to counter with Light Screen again. Xatu shrieked in pain as she took massive damage from the electric type move. Pikachu didn't let up on his attack until Xatu fell on the ground. She had swirls in her eyes and soot covered her body.
"Xatu is unable to battle." The ref declared. "Meaning the battle goes to the challenger, Ash.".
"That was amazing, Pikachu!" Ash exclaimed. "When did you learn Brick Break.
"Hehehe." Pikachu laughed nervously as he sat down on the field, covered in sweat and feeling pretty tired. "Ya see, I asked Primeape to teach me how to use fighting type energy back in the Orange League. Then I've been practising it since, albeit growing at a slower rate. Then you caught Heracross who taught me to use the fighting type energy into a Brick Break. I would say I've had the attack down a couple days before you caught Chikorita.".
"Okay, well why didn't you tell me that you wanted to learn Brick Break?" Ash asked.
"I wanted to surprise you..." Pikachu sweat dropped, in all honesty he didn't tell anyone since he wanted a distraction from the place they were in. Although he never wanted to keep secrets, how could he tell them why he was apprehensive about coming to Johto? Maybe he is just being silly, that all happened years ago.
"Well, you certainly did that." Ash smiled at the tired electric type. "Come on back, you deserve a long rest.".
"Nah, I good for another round." Pikachu replied as he got into another battle stance.
"Pikachu, your exhausted." Ash deadpanned.
"It's merely a scratch." Pikachu replied.
"And I promised Pidgeot a battle, as well." Ash informed.
Pikachu sighed in defeat and made his way over to Eevee who jumped down next to Serena's leg. While she is proud her boyfriend did so well against a gym leader, she can easily see something is bothering him. She won't force him to tell her what it is, but she will be here to listen when he is ready to talk. As he took a seat next to her, she whispered well done to him before pecking his cheek. Pikachu blushed in response before he felt a little fairy type give him a celebration hug.
"Well Ash, you have done well so far but don't think you have won just yet." Falkner informed as the roof opened up, revealing the open sky. "Now it is time you face my oldest friend, he was my first Pokemon. Take to the skies, Pidgeot!".
In a flash of light, the male bird Pokemon appeared in front of Falkner. He spread his wings and let out a loud battle cry to intimidate his opponent. Although Ash didn't seem the least bit phased. He knows this is a powerful Pidgeot and the fact he is slightly bigger than his own means it has an advantage, but Ash also knows his Pidgeot won't give up.
"I choose you, Pidgeot!" Ash shouted as he threw his Pokeball high into the air. In a flash of light, Ash's own Pidgeot appeared on the battle and like her male counterpart, spread her wings and let out a loud battle cry.
As each Pidgeot locked eyes with the other one, they knew this was more than just a normal gym battle, this would be a battle for their pride as Pidgeot's. Falkner's has proven that despite everyone his trainer caught, he is still one of his strongest Pokemon while Ash's has always been determined to become the strongest of all bird Pokemon. Each have experience battling in the air, so this will come down to a true test between the big birds.
"I can see your Pidgeot has been raised well Ash." Falkner complimented. "Pidgeot are very brave and loyal Pokemon, I look forward to see how this battle turns out.".
"Same here, Falkner." Ash replied.
"Pidgeot VS Pidgeot... Begin!" The ref declared.
Falkner VS Ash (P. III):
As soon as the battle started, neither trainer had the chance to make the first move. Both Pidgeot shot into the air with tremendous speed. As they went higher and higher, they traded blows with Wing Attack's back and forth. Ash's Pidgeot may know Steel Wing which would be for effective than Wing Attack, but she also knows that would weigh her down and she doesn't want that disadvantage.
Eventually, the two Pokemon came to a stop, high in the air and just waited for one of them to do something. They were staring each other down, waiting for the other to blink. On the battlefield, a tumbleweed rolled across the ground between Ash and Falkner, who were having a similar stare off.
"Quick Attack!" Ash broke the silent battle.
"You two!" Falkner countered a second later.
Ash's Pidgeot shot across the sky in the blink of an eye ready to crash into her male counterpart but Falkner's Pidgeot had just as good reaction time. Turning around he shot off away from his opponent at an equally fast speed. It was hard for anyone on the ground to make out exactly what was happening up there.
The two Pidgeot were zooming around the sky, with Falkner's in the lead and Ash's attempting to catch up. Unfortunately, both were going at the maximum speed possible for a Pidgeot to reach, meaning the chance for Ash's to catch up because of the slight head start, was next to none. It didn't take long for both of the trainers to figure out the two blurs they could see in the sky were their Pidgeot's and Ash had a bad feeling his was the one doing the chasing.
"Tailwind!" Ash shouted.
Not letting up on her speed in the slightest, she continued to use her Quick Attack as her tail feathers moves slightly. A backwards draft hit her, increasing her speed as another air current was effected, knocking Falkner's Pidgeot off balance. This combined gave Ash's Pidgeot a massive speed boost, and she struck Falkner's Pidgeot in the chest. He began to fall down but was able to save himself while Ash's Pidgeot came to a stop to let out a victorious cry.
Falkner's Pidgeot didn't like that and his wing glew white. Slashing them in the air, facing the female Pidgeot, he sent an Air Slash towards her back. She saw the attack out of the corner of her eye and she swooped down avoiding it, she hates when Pokemon try sneak attacks like that.
Ash's Pidgeot coated her wings in metal before she dived at the male Pidgeot, ready to deliver a powerful Steel Wing for the sneak attack. Unfortunately, Falkner taught his Pidgeot a counter for when he has to face steel types.
The male Pidgeot had a red outline around him as his body heated up. Letting out a large a loud cry before pointing his wings in her direction. A massive wave of heat and fire type energy radiated in Ash's Pidgeot's direction. He used Heat Wave. The attack made the female Pidgeot grunt, but she attempted to power through, unfortunately for her, the metal on her wings couldn't withstand the heat, due to the metal coating.
"Fly up, Pidgeot!" Ash shouted.
Well she isn't exactly one for giving up on a fight, she didn't want to damage her wings too badly and quite frankly she would follow Ash's directions then her own pride any day. Plus, because Ash told her to do this, it can't exactly be classed as backing away, can it?
Pidgeot shot straight up with great speed, soon she was out of sight, she was still getting a speed boost from the Tailwind. Falkner's Pidgeot grunted in annoyance, he really hopes that Tailwind ends soon. Soon a red dot could be seen high in the sky and both Falkner and his Pidgeot knew what was happening. Ash's Pidgeot was powering up with Work Up.
"Quick Attack! Get up to her!" Falkner shouted, sounding panicked for the first time in the heat of battle.
"Brave Bird!" Ash hollered.
Falkner's Pidgeot shot up towards the red dot but soon that red dot turned into a blue one. The Tailwind was still activated, along with the gravity speeding up Ash's Pidgeot meant no-one had a chance to avoid the collision. The two Pidgeot collided mid-air and an explosion incurred.
After the explosion, Ash's Pidgeot shot out and let out a loud battle cry, despite taking some recoil damage she was still ready to battle. Falkner's Pidgeot took more damage than he expected, since Ash's Pidgeot got more Work Up in then he predicted. The male Pidgeot fell out of the explosion, with scratches and soot covering his body. He crashed into the ground with swirls in his eyes. Ash's Pidgeot landed next to him, as the ref made his call.
"Falkner's Pidgeot is unable to battle." The ref declared. "Meaning the battle goes to the challenger, Ash.".
It was the next morning and the group was stood at the south exit to Violet City. It was a sad day as it was the day the group would split up from Jimmy and Marina, those two were going to stay in the city for a bit while the others were going to head to Azalea Town, to both complete the task Professor Oak gave them right before they left for Johto and so Ash could get his second Johto gym badge.
Of course, Serena would need to wait a little longer for her second chance at contest, but she only needs five ribbons compared to Ash's eight gym badges, so it makes sense he would compete in gym battles more often then she would compete in contests.
Before heading off, the Kanto group made a few rotations. Pidgeot made Ash promise not to call Charizard over as she is going to get him to teach her Heat Wave, since seeing Falkner's Pidgeot use it, she wants the move. So, Ash exchanged his team so now he has: Pikachu, Ivysaur, Primeape, Tauros, Heracross, Chikorita and of course, Togepi. Ash decided to bring over a couple of training partners for his Johto team in the form of Ivysaur and Primeape, respectively.
Serena didn't really change her team all that much, but right now she has: Delphox, Kadabra, Eevee, Kabuto, Larvitar and Sentret. She wanted to bring her other rock type in hopes Larvitar would open up to him but kept her other Pokemon the same, Eevee for obvious reasons. Delphox, so she doesn't need to confront Charizard yet and Kadabra, so he could continue to help with her Psychic abilities. If she won't have a contest, then this will be some good practise time.
Misty also called her sisters back at the gym, so her current team consists of: Tentacruel, Kingler, Vaporeon, Shelder, Poliwag and Chinchou. She didn't have any reason for just swapping who she did, she just wanted to spend more time with her Kingler and Shelder respectively.
Brock also slightly changed his team around, so now he has: Golem, Diglett, Vulpix, Rhyhorn, Omanyte and Stantler. He knew that he wanted to see Golem again since he has been helping out back at the gym for a while and he figured he would give Golbat a break.
The two groups just stared at each other neither quite knowing what to say. The Kanto group were used to departures like this and although they are used to it and they know they will see their friends again but that won't make things easier for them. Eventually Brock broke the silence.
"Well guys, we should get going if we want to actually make some progress today." Brock told everyone.
Marina knew they couldn't keep everyone back another day and so approached Serena, giving her a hug before whispering. "Thank you, for all your help... With everything.".
"No problem, and good luck with Jimmy." Serena whispered back.
"Thanks for all the tips you gave me Ash." Jimmy told his friend as the girl's hug ended.
"No problem, and I won't say goodbye since we have each other's numbers and we will see each other again." Ash replied with a smile.
"Right, we will have to meet up when Serena and I compete in the Grand Festival." Marina interjected.
"Not to mention when me and Ash compete in the silver conference." Jimmy added.
Without anything else to say, the group of: Ash, Serena, Misty, Brock, Pikachu and Togepi began walking south towards their next location as both Jimmy and Marina waved them off. It has been an interesting start to their Johto journey. Not only have they all had the chance to catch new friends, but Ash and Serena had a taste of being a sort of mentor for the first time. Of course, Brock and Misty were like Ash's and Serena's mentors all that time ago, which shows just how far they have grown. After such a great start to their journey, they know Johto is going to be one great adventure for them.
Thanks for reading... Please Favourite, Follow and Review. Also, feel free to ask any questions through PM, I will answer them all, although don't expect too big of spoilers. Don't forget to vote in the polls. I really appreciate the support. Thank you and see ya next time...